Tramontana Tramontana, 2007

 

 

 

•  Tramontana Tramontana, 2007

Chassis, 100% carbon fibre
It has never been seen in the automotive history a street sports car which resembles so much a Formula 1 like the Tramontana does. It is the first time in the sports car market that it has been incorporated a 100 % carbon fibre monocoque chassis inspired in the design of a Formula 1 and manufactured with the same criteria, guaranteeing a high protection for its passengers. Moreover, it introduces a new structural system that combines an indeformable central zone (cockpit) with a weight of 128kg with other 8 deformable zones calculated for the absorption of the impact energy. In fact, the results extracted of the Crash Test (according to the FIA regulation) confirm that the structural calculation guarantees the integrity of its passengers displacing the lateral components toward the outside. This shows the high impact resistance of the carbon fibre used in the vehicle.

On the other hand, this monocoque, especially developed for the Tramontana, contributes a lightness and maximum rigidity to the whole, factor that together with its suspension system, unique on its market of double wishbones with pushrod and a great length of arms, improves the dynamical aptitudes of the vehicle. All this elaborated with materials of last generation of aerospace technology like the steel to the cromolibdenium, magnesium and duraluminium. Without doubt in the Tramontana the efficiency of the geometry and the weight has been tested, obtaining as result an unequalled performance.

The structure of the monocoque carried out in carbon fibre offers a high torsion resistance, which makes the driver feel like going on a rail.

In the assembly process have been adopted handcraft techniques like the obsession by pre-impregnate and cured in autoclave to 120 ºC, that provides an exceptional finish level and makes the construction of light and strong pieces easier.

Engine, from the competition to the asphalt
Among the final solutions of the Tramontana, we find a new electronic system and a central gasoline engine V12 Biturbo capable to offer a power from 550 Hp to 720 Hp, selectable through a switch situated in the dashboard.

Associated to a 6-speed gearbox, specially developed for the Tramontana, this 12 cylinders propeller in V reaches the 720 Hp to 5.750rpm with a maximum pair torque of 920nm at 4.000rpm. The result, 345 km/h of top speed and 3,7 seconds to reach the 100 km/h from stopped departure.

The weight-power relation is elevated to the 1,7 Kg/Hp, significant data that allow us to discover the kind of sensations that this fantastic assembly of chassis and engine can offer us.

The development of the electronic switchboard is made to measure, in a craft process of more than 2000 hours, that includes full silver wiring and a power map capable to obtain the maximum performance of the engine. Moreover, for the first time in a street car, lifelong relays, fuses and protections have been replaced by a module with just one connector that has only one terminal that brings together all the functions of a conventional device. This innovative system has reduced the wiring, the complexities of the consoles of relays and the fuses, avoiding any electromechanical deterioration.

Car body, beauty and functionality
Without doubt, the design of the Tramontana combines the curves of a fighter with a narrow front and a wider rear of big dimensions and finished in first quality leather and wood imported of the classics of the Spanish automotive industry. This aesthetics remains totally clear thanks to the design of the hardtop, which covers and protects the passengers, and to the rear and front spoilers, in the form of an airplane wing, that assures a great beauty and an excellent support at the same time. In short, a perfect harmony between sensuality, fine materials and elegant lines, an authentic jewel for the collectors.

All the pieces of the Tramontana car body are also elaborated in carbon fibre, assuring the maximum lightness of the vehicle with a total weight of 1.250 kg.

Thanks to the dynamic study carried out by a.d. Tramontana, the pieces that form part of the car body have been created by considering its functionality and the important vehicle performance.

The result is some compacted forms, an expressive front and a suggestive aerodynamic outline with a marked silhouette. Everything in the Tramontana transmits force, character, personality and, above all, sportsmanship, nevertheless the new model is a worthy heir of the sports tradition of the Formula 1.

Suspensions, balance between sportsmanship and comfort

One of the key items of the Tramontana is its system of suspensions of double wishbones with push-rod and its great length of arms, elaborated with a sort of steel of aeronautical and competition specifications of the latest generation.

Two special programs have been used for the development, which have permitted the static and dynamic simulation of the whole vehicle. Different defined adjustments in theoretical calculations have been projected and experienced on it in order to analyze the performance before proceeding to the validation and arriving this way to the definition of the suspensions rates. Finally, a.d. Tramontana has bet on a suspension system that provides a better control, driving comfort, smaller oscillation and better speed cornering, due to the distance between axes, identical to that of a Formula 1.

In the same way, the Tramontana has a system of double electronic height regulation especially developed for the Tramontana, which allows the driver to raise or to lower the height of the vehicle according to the driving needs. It has been looked for a balance between the performance of a street car (at 130mm) and a sports car (at 85mm) considering the different driving styles.

Aerodynamics, the exigency of the geometry
The engineers team from a.d.Tramontana has worked very hard to find the maximal exigency and perfection regarding the aerodynamic performance of the Tramontana, an aesthetical reasoning as similar as possible to a Formula 1.

The aerodynamic performance is though to great speed cornering and, at the same time, get a minimum air penetration coefficient Cx=0,4.

The air intakes and cooling of the motor they have been designed with the objective to minimize the friction of the air and to optimize the performance of the motor.

Moreover, the vehicle has a laminated sheet situated under the vehicle, that eliminates turbulences and improves the drag.

In the same way, the wishbones, designed in the form of drop of water, they help to minimize this coefficient. In fact, all the external elements that stand out from the vehicle are thought to obtain the minimum air resistance. This is the reason of the airplane wing profile of the wishbones.

The front spoilers offer a higher lift compared with the rear ones to avoid loss direction sensations. In this sense, there is an important work to obtain a ground effect thanks to the air flow that penetrates in the lower part of the vehicle. This generates a negative lift toward the ground, making driving to high speeds easier.

Finally, another remarkable factor, has been the study to situate the centre of gravity of the Tramontana as low as possible to increase the cornering speed.

Daihatsu Terios, 2007

 

Daihatsu Terios, 2007

Arguably the most stylish small 4x4 on the market, the totally new Daihatsu Terios has a dynamic, fun-to-drive appearance with strong off-road styling cues yet short front and rear overhangs, a long wheelbase and especially wide tracks and body width.
Its roomy, four-door, five-seat body succeeds in being compact yet practical, avoiding the bulk, high fuel consumption and negative image of some 4x4s.

Designed to appeal to young families and older people seeking the traditional 4x4 qualities of visibility, bad-weather traction and versatility, the Daihatsu Terios also offers small car running costs and manoeuvrability.

Its turning circle is a tight 9.8 metres (kerb-to-kerb) for the S and SE and a still hatchback-like 10 metres for the bigger-tyred SX, while the SX body length is between that of the new Renault Clio and larger Megane.
Compared to the previous model, the Daihatsu Terios 1.5 SX is 230 mm longer at 4,075 mm and a significant 190 mm wider at 1,745 mm. It is 45 mm higher but purely because of its standard roof rails. The entry-level 'S' model - which lacks roof rails - is actually 5 mm lower than before.

Greatly boosting the new Terios's tough, stable stance are front and rear tracks measuring 1,450 and 1,480 mm respectively - a massive 145 and 170 mm greater than before. Meanwhile, the wheelbase - at 2,580 mm - grows by 180 mm.
Complementing this are especially large 16 ins wheels for all models with either 215/65R tyres for the entry-level Terios 1.5 S manual and higher-spec SE automatic or beefy 235/60R tyres for the manual SX.

Versatile Interior
The versatile interior offers mid-sized hatchback passenger space with a clever split fold-and-tumble rear seat which liberates a 1,290 mm maximum floor length - long enough to take a mountain bike.
Even with the rear seat in use the 380 litre capacity boot is capable of taking four 45" golf bags, four vertically-stacked mid-sized suitcases or a typical baby buggy. Most models also have load-floor securing hooks.

Sprightly, Efficient Powertrain
Based on the Sirion's 1.3 litre DOHC 16-valve petrol engine, the Daihatsu Terios has a larger 1.5 litre capacity, producing 105 PS at 6,000 rpm and a flexible 103 lb. ft of torque at 4,400 rpm.
Its standard Dynamic Variable Valve Timing (DVVT) enhances low-speed pulling power and high rev throttle response by maximising combustion efficiency. It also boosts fuel economy and lowers exhaust emissions.

The new Terios's engine - with the same 72 mm bore as the 1.3 litre but a longer 91.8 mm stroke - is both lively and flexible, requiring fewer gear-changes to make sprightly progress.
For example, its torque curve is virtually flat between 3,200 and 4,000 rpm - the most frequently used rev-range in normal driving.
Top speed for manual models is almost 100 mph and over 93 mph for the automatic, while the Daihatsu Terios 1.5 S manual records 40.4 mpg on the Extra Urban Cycle and the Terios 1.5 SE automatic not far behind at 39.8 mpg.

The new Terios 1.5 S manual has a low CO2 reading of 186 g/km with the Terios 1.5 SE automatic recording 196 g/km.
In fact, the Daihatsu Terios 1.5 S has the best CO2 reading of any four-door 4x4 - diesel included - and comfortably beats rivals such as the Suzuki Grand Vitara, Mitsubishi Shogun Pinin and Honda HR-V.

The short-throw five-speed manual gearchange is light and slick, while the four-speed automatic is both quick-reacting yet capable of selecting a higher gear during more gentle driving, aiding fuel economy and refinement.
Meanwhile, all new Terios models have a full-time 4WD system with a fixed 50/50 front to rear torque-split and centre differential which eliminates axle wind-up - the phenomenon of the steering becoming increasingly heavy on full-lock.

Because of this 50/50 torque split, high-speed stability and slippery surface traction is greatly enhanced compared to most rivals. These models are usually rear-wheel drive with selectable 4WD or effectively front wheel-drive, only calling on 4WD when sensors detect wheelspin.

A fascia-mounted switch activates the electronically-controlled differential-lock. This further aids traction in mud or deep snow, while short front and rear overhangs and a 190 mm ground clearance also signal serious off-road ability. The new Daihatsu Terios has a front approach angle of 38 degrees with a rear of 37 degrees.

The compact engine is mounted in-line, followed by the gearbox. A centre differential transfers torque to both the front and rear axles via two separate propeller shafts.

Sporty Handling From New Chassis
The new Daihatsu Terios benefits from a totally new monocoque platform with a revised chassis tuned for car-like, confidence-inspiring handling with vastly improved ride and stability compared to the previous model.
Aided by its considerably wider front and rear tracks, the new Terios features front MacPherson struts, lower wishbones and an anti-roll bar.

The five-link rear suspension has variable-rate coil springs and near vertical rear shock-absorbers which improve damping and therefore comfort, pitch and roll.

In addition, an increased shock-absorber rebound stroke improves rough terrain driveability.
At the rear, a new lateral rod reduces axle squirm and benefits refinement, a newly-designed upper control arm enhances stability, a new shock-absorber reduces brake judder and a longer suspension stroke improves ride comfort.

Other rear suspension improvements include a more compact design resulting in a lower boot floor and a new design of spring and lower control arm which reduce rear differential noise.

Outstanding Safety Measures
The Daihatsu Terios has outstanding safety measures with in-house tests giving results equal to a Euro NCAP 4-Star occupant protection and 3-Star pedestrian protection.

Crushable structures are used at the front and rear of the body with the cabin itself made stronger to minimise occupant injury. To protect from side-impacts, the front floor cross-member, tunnel, sills, B-posts and roof-side rails are all strengthened to secure occupant survival space.
As for pedestrians, the front bumper and bonnet are designed to minimise injury to the head and thigh with a shock-absorbing structure built into the bonnet.

High-power seatbelt pretensioners are standard while special pads are installed to reduce injury to occupant knees, torso and lower legs. The pedals are also designed not to intrude during an impact.
Both driver, passenger and side airbags are fitted and the standard four-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) also feature electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) which maximises stopping power and minimises skidding.

Outstanding Equipment
Every new Terios model has an outstanding equipment tally with the entry-level Terios 1.5 S featuring air-conditioning, power-steering, ABS with EBD, full-time four-wheel drive with centre diff-lock, driver, passenger and side airbags, three rear-seat three-point seatbelts, radio/CD player, four electric windows and reverse parking sensors.

Expected to be the best-seller, the Daihatsu Terios 1.5 SX adds, for example, alloy wheels with 235/60R tyres, two-tone wheelarch extensions and side-skirts, roof rails, multi-information display, front fog-lamps, smoked 'privacy glass' for the rear side doors and rear window, leather steering wheel, electric windscreen de-icer and door mirrors and various AC sockets and load-restraint ties.

The automatic transmission-only Terios 1.5 SE has a similar equipment level to the SX but features a different design of alloy wheel with 215/65 tyres and has colour-keyed side skirts.

Like all Daihatsus, the new Terios will enjoy the protection of a three-year unlimited mileage warranty with roadside assistance plus an eight-year anti-perforation warranty.

ABT Audi TT-R, 2007

ABT Audi TT-R, 2007

 

   

The Abt TT-R

The real racer from the exclusive Kempten-based tuning company bears the letter "R" in its name - of course the powerful version of the TT performing incredible 355 HP (262 kW) does, too. In a flash, namely 5.1 seconds, the sportscar reaches the 100 km/h threshold.

The cockpit of the TT-R has a lot to offer its ambitious driver.
With its dynamical design it harmonizes perfectly with the sporty vehicle character - steering wheel, gear shift knob and centre console are kept in exclusive carbon-leather optics.
The magical three letters that convert a beautiful Coupé into a race car can also be found in the car interior again, as everybody driving a TT-R cannot get enough of this exclusive model.

Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini H1, 2007

Lobini, which was recently bought by Brax Automobile, has presented the new 2007 Lobini H1 at the "Salão do Automóvel 2006". The car has a removable hard-top roof, redesigned front with new headlights and an aerodynamic kit which makes it a very appealing sports car. On the inside the Lobini H1 comes with leather seats available in light gray, dark gray or black.

History
In 1999 Lobini project was created. It aimed at developing the best Brazilian sports car with a technology to be compared with the international vehicles of the same category. Lobini H1 is now history. It was a success in "Salão do Automóvel 2002" and it can be seen on the streets of many cities in Brazil.

The company has recently shipped one of its cars to England, and it has been working with Lotus for the technical validation of Lobini in Europe.

Engine
* VW 1.8 I Turbo with inter cooler, 4 cylinder, 20 valves and 180 hp
* Transversal rear between axis
* Electronic injection Bosh
* Unique sport stainless steel exhaust pipe

Transmission
* Five gear - mechanical transmission

Suspension
* Independent suspension in the four wheels with carbon steel triangle arm
* Hydraulic shock absorbers JRZ for competition, with Eibach coils and adjustable
* Disc brakes in the four wheels with forced ventilation system

Chassis
* Carbon steel Tubular structure with anti - corrosive treatment

Bodywork
* Plastic reinforced with fiber glass

Specifications
* Dimensions: length = 3720mm, width=1800mm, height = 1180mm
* Height from the ground: 150mm
* Between axis: 2400mm
* Fuel tank: 58 liters
* Weight: 1030kg
* Weight distribution: 41/59
* Acceleration: 0 to 100km/h in less than 6 seconds
* Wheels and tires: 17" x 7", Front: 205 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric, Rear: 225 45 R17 Pzero asymmetric

Steering wheel
* Hydraulic steering wheel - height and depth adjustable, with integrated panel

Series items
* Air conditioning
* Electric windows
* Engine start button on the panel
* Luggage compartment behind the seats
* Sound system with CD player
* Adjustable competition seats

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, 2007

Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics.
The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp "folded" edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with 'H' logo.

The Concept model's fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants' heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design - a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. Further distinction is provided by a 'floating' LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated 'Small Hybrid Sports' name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.
Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.
The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

Honda S2000 CR Concept, 2007

The lighter, stiffer and more aggressive overall design is engineered to maximize the S2000's potential on a racetrack with the goal of substantially-improving track times, chassis balance and feel. The factory-tuned roadster provides highly-aggressive suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity, overall weight reduction and an aerodynamic body kit dialed-in for reduced lift. An aluminum hardtop replaces the convertible soft top as standard equipment.

The full-body aerodynamic package reduces lift through large and highly-tuned front and rear spoilers.
Substantial structural bracing has been added to the storage area previously occupied by the soft top, resulting in additional rigidity. The aluminum hard top replaces the soft top of the conventional S2000, resulting in an overall weight savings of approximately 90 pounds when removed (relative to the current S2000).

The exclusive interior is highlighted by unique cloth seating surfaces with yellow stitching, a unique spherical aluminum shifter and carbon fiber-style trim panels. Air conditioning and an AM/FM Stereo with CD player are optional equipment. Standard features for the S2000 include 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, ABS and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA). While VSA serves to effectively enhance driver control during acceleration, braking, and cornering, the system can be disabled with the touch of a button when conditions warrant it.

Widely considered the quintessential roadster-style sports car, the S2000 is the performance icon for the Honda brand and combines uncompromising racetrack-ready performance with everyday usability. The S2000 rewards driving enthusiasts with a potent 2.2-liter, 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine and a precise, short throw 6-speed manual transmission, along with tenacious handling and a perfect 50/50 weight balance.

The renowned high-revving engine delivers 237 horsepower at 7,800 rpm and 162 lb-ft. of torque at 6,800 rpm. Perfectly complimenting the engine's output characteristics is a compact, longitudinally-mounted, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that features a direct linkage for precise shifting and quick throws. Combined with a front and rear double wishbone suspension, precise electric power steering, and a torque-sensing limited slip differential, the end result is a complete, no compromise, performance package for the enthusiast driver.

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept, 2007

Created to take exotic sports car styling to a new level, the concept is designed to incorporate a powerful front-mounted, V-10 engine and a new high-performance, rear-wheel-drive based version of Acura's exclusive Super Handling All-Wheel Drive.

The concept's exterior demonstrates a dynamic fusion of advanced technology and emotion. The long, pronounced hood features deeply sculpted lines and embossed air vents, both of which hint at the powerful engine beneath. The exterior lines run the length of the body, creating a ribbon-like effect from the front headlights to the rear wheel arches, evoking a feeling of movement and power.

Though modern in its appearance, the Advanced Sports Car Concept retains the subtle cues associated with its predecessor, the NSX. The concept's slim, LED headlights are pushed wide and designed to mimic the pop-up headlights found on the first generation NSX. Other styling hints include a modern take on wraparound rear taillights and the all black cockpit.

Wide and low to the ground with a 108.8 inch wheelbase, the concept is anchored by grippy 19 inch front and 20 inch rear performance tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful, ventilated carbon ceramic brake discs and eight-piston calipers accent the wheels. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's aggressive appearance.

The low slung cabin is constructed entirely of tinted glass and sits flush against the body. Door handles are also flush mounted, allowing the sports car to retain a clean and aerodynamic appearance. The Advanced Sports Car Concept features a carbon fiber underbody and the rear is finished with aggressive quad exhaust pipes and integrated rear diffusers, further communicating its high performance potential.

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

Citroen C4 Picasso, 2007

The 5 seat C4 Picasso slips naturally into Citroën's compact MPV range between the established, best-selling Xsara Picasso and the award-winning seven seat version, which will now be known as the Grand C4 Picasso. With three compact MPVs and the full-size C8 people carrier, Citroën now boasts the broadest MPV range in its history.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso benefits from the same forward thinking that shaped the design of the recently launched Grand C4 Picasso, with outstanding all-round visibility, a light and airy interior, leading cabin and boot space, incorporating a new version of Citroën's Modubox folding trolley, and the use of high quality materials. The easy-to-use and flexible interior lay-out combines with the uncluttered interior space and the highest levels of comfort to ensure that travelling is a pleasurable experience.

The interior of Citroën's newcomer is refreshingly light, with outstanding visibility provided by the huge windscreen, slim pillars and optional panoramic sunroof. Artificial lighting also plays a major role with the availability of various useful features, such as automatic welcome lights under the door mirrors, a portable torch in the boot and reading lights on the back of the front seats, all designed to make journeys easier.

The exterior dimensions (4.47m long, 1.83m wide and 1.66m tall) give the C4 Picasso an extremely spacious interior. This feeling of space is enjoyed by all passengers, with those in the front benefiting from the simple, uncluttered design of the dash, and those in the back from three individual, full-size seats and a flat floor. The innovative seating design, first seen in the Grand C4 Picasso, allows the rear seats to be quickly and easily folded flat into the floor.

When all 5 seats are in use, the new model leads the class with 500 litres of boot space underneath the luggage cover, extending to a maximum 1,734 litres once the rear seats are folded down. Helping to keep the boot tidy, the five seat C4 Picasso can also be equipped with a new version of Citroën's renowned Modubox. This innovative, removable trolley makes it easy to divide boot space and to transport objects outside of the vehicle.

The new 5 seat C4 Picasso provides a relaxing journey for all occupants. Suspension comfort can be further enhanced by the optional pneumatic rear suspension, while laminated acoustic side windows can be specified to make it even quieter inside. An automatic electronic parking brake and Hill Start Assist are fitted as standard and make everyday driving easier.

Thoughtful extras such as individual air flow controls for back seat passengers, an air quality sensor and a scented air freshener can all add to the pleasant on board atmosphere. A high quality stereo system and folding video screens in the back of the front seats are also available to keep passengers entertained.

Which scored five stars in Euro NCAP tests, the new C4 Picasso meets the most stringent criteria for occupant protection, offering the likes of four Isofix seats, audible seat belt warnings for all seats and seven airbags as standard.

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.

But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.

Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Though practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance.

Vauxhall Corsa 5-door, 2007

Vauxhall Corsa 5-door, 2007

Vauxhall Corsa 5-door, 2007

The new version of the Gamma platform has been codeveloped by Fiat and Opel. It will be used by the 2006 Fiat Grande Punto (a stretched version of the Fiat Punto), 2007 Opel Corsa and future versions of Lancia Ypsilon and Fiat Idea. GM Daewoo will take responsibility for future development of the Gamma platform, so the production of the future Corsa might be outsourced to South Korea as well.
The first official pictures of the 2007 Corsa were released by Opel in May 2006. Based on the photos of the Corsa, it is very likely that the 3-door and 5-door versions will remain. This car will also be sold as a Vauxhall in the UK.

Vauxhall Corsa 3-door, 2007

Vauxhall Corsa 3-door, 2007

A new version of the Gamma platform has been codeveloped by Fiat and Opel. It will be used by the 2006 Fiat Grande Punto (a stretched version of the Fiat Punto), 2007 Opel Corsa and future versions of Lancia Ypsilon and Fiat Idea.
GM Daewoo will take responsibility for future development of the Gamma platform, so the production of the future Corsa might be outsourced to South Korea as well. The first official pictures of the 2007 Corsa were released by Opel in May 2006. Based on the photos of the Corsa, it is very likely that the 3-door and 5-door versions will remain.
This car will also be sold as a Vauxhall in the UK.