2011 Audi Sports Car Concept

Dynamic design, enthralling performance and exemplary efficiency - the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are now more attractive than ever. The design of the lightweight bodies made primarily of aluminum and the interior have been revised with great attention to detail, while new technologies lower the fuel consumption of the compact sports car. New to the lineup is a powerful and highly efficient four cylinder: The 2.0 TFSI develops 155 kW (211 hp), but is content with an average fuel consumption of just 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers (35.64 US mpg).

2011 Audi TT Coupe and Roadster

The Audi TT Coupe and Roadster models enter the 2011 model year with some modest exterior styling changes, a revised interior and the introduction of the firm's new 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline engine with 211 ponies on the entry-level versions. The new 2.0 TFSI delivers 211HP and 258 lb-ft, or 11-horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque more than its 2.0-liter predecessor. With the six-speed manual, the two-liter engine accelerates the Coupe from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 245 km/h or 152mph.

The upgrades to the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster have added two centimeters (0.79 in) to both cars, which now measure 4,187 millimeters (13.74 ft) in length. The width of 1,842 millimeters (6.04 ft) and the height of 1,352 millimeters (4.44 ft) and 1,357 millimeters (4.45 ft) for the Coupe and Roadster, respectively, remain unchanged. The wheelbase measures 2,468 millimeters (8.10 ft). Four new metallic colors have been added to the TT color range: Scuba Blue, Oolong Gray, Volcano Red and Dakota Gray. Daytona Gray, pearl effect is also available with the S line package.

The Audi TT 1.8 TFSI weighs a mere 1,240 kg (2,733.73 lb), a good 100 kilograms (220.46 lbs) less than its closest competitor. The body of the Coupés weighs only 206 kilograms (454.15 lb), which breaks down to 140 kilograms (308.65 lb) of aluminum (68 percent) and 66 kilograms (145.51 lb) of steel (32 percent). The specific reinforcements in the TT Roadster - steel bulkhead, strongly ribbed sills, A-pillar and windshield frame - result in a 58 to 42 percent split of the two materials.

The designers have added additional gloss to the fine interior. New aluminum-look applications shine on the steering wheel, the center console and in the door liner. Elegant accents are provided by rings, frames and strips in high-gloss black. The aluminum strip above the glove box door is now brushed gray. There are three new interior colors from which to choose - nougat brown, titanium gray and garnet red. The leather seat covers are specially treated to reduce thermal heating by as much as 20 degrees Celsius (68° F) when the Audi TT is parked in the sun.

The Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are sports cars with a high degree of everyday utility. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the 2+2-seater Coupé, expanding the trunk space beneath the long lid from 292 to 700 liters (10.31 - 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster, which offers 250 liters (8.83 cubic ft) of storage space whether the top is up or down, can also be supplied with the option of a load-through facility.

The S line sport package features a black interior with many fine details in such places as the steering wheel, the seat covers and the applications. 18-inch wheels and body lowered by 10 millimeters (0.39 in) make the handling even more dynamic.

The updated Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster will debut on the German market in the summer of 2010 with only minimal changes in price. The 1.8 TFSI will be available from €30,200.

Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3 at The Geneva

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is adding yet another new model to the second generation of the 911 model series: the new GT3 even more powerful, faster, and refined than its predecessor. In developing the most sporting and dynamic road-going 911 with a normal-aspiration power unit, Porsche has applied a wide range of know-how gained in motorsport. Indeed, this is precisely why the 2010 new Porsche 911 GT3 is truly impressive not only on the road, but also on the race track.

2010 Porsche Sports Cars 911 GT3

The 2010 new Porsche 911 GT3 is the latest evolution of an iconic sports car. Embodying the essence of more than 23,000 Porsche racing victories, the 911 GT3 is the ultimate integration of driver and car and arrives in the UK this autumn. The new 911 GT3 is making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show on 3 March, with Europe-wide sales starting in May.

The Porsche 911 GT3 offers an even higher standard above all in two key areas: performance and driving dynamics. The proven six-cylinder naturally aspirated power unit now develops a maximum output of 435 hp (320 kW), up 20 hp over its predecessor. This results first and foremost from an increase in engine capacity by 200 cc to 3.8-litres and from improved cylinder head gas flow: now not only the intake, but for the first time also the exhaust camshafts, are adjusted by VarioCam.

A further important point is that, through its upgraded power and performance, the flat six 'boxer' engine also offers a significant increase in torque at medium engine speeds, a benefit of particular significance in everyday motoring. Clearly, this also means a further improvement in performance; the new Porsche 911 GT3 accelerates from a standstill to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 4.1 seconds and reaches 99 mph (160 km/h) in 8.2 seconds. Top speed is 194 mph.

The second emphasis in developing the Porsche 911 GT3 to an even higher standard was to further improve the car's driving dynamics. For the first time, the Porsche 911 GT3 comes with a particularly sporting variant of Porsche Stability Management (PSM), offering the facility to deactivate both Stability Control (SC) and Traction Control (TC) in separate steps. And to give the driver unrestricted, individual control over the driving dynamics of his car, these functions are not reactivated automatically even under the most extreme driving conditions, but only at the touch of a button.

The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) fitted to the 911 GT3 has enabled Porsche engineers to make the springs and anti-roll bars stiffer yet again, thus ensuring even more precise handling in the PASM 'sports' mode. However, the PASM ensures appropriate ride comfort suitable for everyday use when in the 'normal' PASM mode. The Porsche 911 GT3 rides on new, lighter wheels in a racing-inspired design - with a centre locking nut - fitted with ultra-high performance (UHP) tyres. Tyre pressure monitoring is fitted as standard.

Making the car even more suitable for the race track, the new Porsche 911 GT3 will be available with the option of new and highly innovative Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount (PADM) engine mountings. These special engine mounts recognise a particularly sporting, race-like style of driving, making the normally 'elastic' engine mounts harder and particularly resistant. This retains all the motoring comfort of the GT3 in everyday traffic, while on the race track the effect of the mass forces coming from the engine is much reduced, particularly in fast bends and on winding tracks. Yet a further advantage is improved traction when accelerating from a standstill.

Another new feature is the optional lift system for the front axle which is able to increase the ground clearance of the car, at the touch of a button, for driving on bumpy surfaces or steep gradients - for example into an underground garage - by 30 millimetres (approx 1.2 inches).

The Euro base price of the new GT3 is Euro 98,100, in Germany the retail price including value-added tax and specific national features is Euro 116,947. In the USA the GT3 will be at the dealership in October at a price of USD 112,200 (MSRP without taxes).

2011 Lincoln Luxury Sports Sedan MKZ Hybrid Picture

NEW YORK, March 31, 2010 – Lincoln today introduces its first hybrid – the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sports sedan in America.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

“Today’s luxury customers do not want to make sacrifices. Lincoln has found a way to deliver a luxury sports sedan with the comforts they expect, the technology they want and the environmental responsibility society demands,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development.

Ford’s latest hybrid sports sedan, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ has finally lifted off its covers at the New York Auto Show. Using its second generation of hybrid technology, the company aims to ‘further broaden its aggressive electrification plan.’ From the Department at Ford Motor Company comes the new hybrid version of the Lincoln MKZ. The MKZ hybrid is fitted with the same gasoline-electric system found in the hybrid versions of its corporate twins, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ hybrid powertrain combines a 156-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and 106-hp electric motor for a total system output of 191 hp; it’s rated for 41 mpg in the city and 36 on the highway in the Fusion and Milan variants. Ford cited its hybrid as “the most fuel-efficient luxury sports sedan in America” as it returns 41  miles per gallon of average fuel consumption.

In pure electric mode, the MKZ Hybrid can reach 47 mph. While we have yet to match those numbers (the Milan hybrid we tested returned 32 mpg combined), Ford says it expects similar EPA ratings for this MKZ. The company goes on to name the car’s Public Enemy No. 1, the Lexus HS250h, and says that the MKZ will offer the best fuel economy of any luxury sports sedan.

Lincoln's first-ever hybrid model is expected to deliver at least 41mpg (5.7 lt/100km) in the city and reach speeds of up to 47 mph (75 km/h) in pure electric mode.

Lincoln’s take on the Ford hybrid theme, of course, will be much better equipped than either of its less-expensive brethren. It will include swiveling HID headlamps, cushy heated and cooled leather seats, and, of course, a slightly snazzier version of the nifty, configurable EcoGuide instrument cluster. In the Milan and Fusion hybrids, a screen-based botanical garden grows leaves and vines as a reward for fuel-efficient driving; the Lincoln adds pretty flowers!

The loads of standard features in the hybrid include, SmartGauge with EcoGuide, Lincoln SYNC, 10-Way Power Passenger Seat, Genuine Wood Trim, Reverse Sensing System, Keyless Entry Keypad, Easy Fuel Capless Fuel-Filler, Personal Safety System, MyKey, Integrated Spotter Mirrors, Acoustic Laminated Windshield and standard Bridge of Weir leather seats.

Other standard goodies include Sync voice-activated controls; sustainable wood trim for the dash, doors, and steering wheel; and reverse and cross-traffic sensors. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we speculate it will cost around $38,000 to start. Sales will begin later this year.

Lotus Sports Cars Exige S240

British performance sports car manufacturer Lotus has officially unveiled their 2010 Lotus Exige S240.  While Lotus fans will recognize this as a very subtle update, the grille and rear wing facelift is a step forward for the mark. The exciting new 2010 Lotus Exige S240 enters the United States and Canadian markets in the fall of 2009 with new front styling, a new rear wing and the same rare combination of exceptional performance and high efficiency.

2010 New Lotus Sports Cars Exige S240

The Lotus Exige S240 features a roof integrated air intake scoop feeds air through the air-to-air intercooled and supercharged 1.8 liter Lotus-tuned and Toyota-sourced 2ZZ-GE engine with Intelligent Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i) to provide 240hp at 8,000 rpm and 170 ft.-lbs. of torque at 5,500.

The 2010 Lotus Exige S240 sprints to 60 mph in a blistering 4.1 seconds and the 100 mph barrier sails by in approximately 10 seconds with top speed is 150 mph. The Lotus Exige S240 is equipped with a 6-speed transaxle synchromesh transmission, traction control and launch control. New for 2010, the optional Track Package will include adjustable Ohlins dampers with threaded spring perches and remote oil reservoirs front and rear.

The Lotus Exige is a renowned high performance coupe that has a well earned reputation as the choice for drivers who demand uncompromised performance, both on the road and on the track. The 2010 Exige S240 introduces a few key enhancements to update the appearance and improve aerodynamic performance. A restyled front end and new larger, low drag rear wing, not only reduces drag, but also gives a more muscular stance enhancing the lightweight shrink-wrapped look of the whole car.

Passing along lessons learned on the track with the Exige GT3 racing program, Lotus Sport Cars has contributed another important technology – variable launch control combined with variable traction control. The launch control allows the driver to determine the number of revs they wish to use during a standing start. Having programmed that limit, the driver then holds their foot down fully on the throttle pedal and sidesteps the clutch pedal for a very quick departure from the line. The clutch damper cushions the severity of the clutch to transmission engagement to minimize the stresses to the drivetrain. The launch control also keeps wheel-spin at bay until 6 mph, after which the traction control assumes its duties.

Like all Lotus cars, the functional components of the car are also beautifully designed as Russell Carr, Chief of Lotus Design, explains, "For 2010 we have taken the already visually extreme Exige and given it even more visual drama. The changes we have integrated to the front and rear of the Exige signal an even clearer and purposeful intent. The functional rear wing is race-inspired, the new angular air intakes and full width splitter give a more hard-edged and aggressive look. Overall, the Exige appears more planted and gives the illusion that both the front and rear of the car are wider than they really are, yet without losing its agile and sleek character."

The new 2010 Lotus Exige S240 is scheduled to launch in the US and Canada in the Fall of 2009. This new 2010 Lotus Exige S240 goes on sale this fall with a starting price of $65,690 and will be available in an upgraded track package with added performance benefits. The 2010 Lotus Exige S240 will hit U.S. and Canadian markets this Autumn.

2011 Lincoln Luxury Sports Sedan MKZ Hybrid

2011 Limcoln Luxury Sports

NEW YORK, March 31, 2010 – Lincoln today introduces its first hybrid – the new 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid – a premium midsize car poised to be the most fuel-efficient luxury sports sedan in America.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

“Today’s luxury customers do not want to make sacrifices. Lincoln has found a way to deliver a luxury sports sedan with the comforts they expect, the technology they want and the environmental responsibility society demands,” said Derrick Kuzak, Ford Group Vice President, Global Product Development.

Ford’s latest hybrid sports sedan, the 2011 Lincoln MKZ has finally lifted off its covers at the New York Auto Show. Using its second generation of hybrid technology, the company aims to ‘further broaden its aggressive electrification plan.’ From the Department at Ford Motor Company comes the new hybrid version of the Lincoln MKZ. The MKZ hybrid is fitted with the same gasoline-electric system found in the hybrid versions of its corporate twins, the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan.

The 2011 Lincoln MKZ hybrid powertrain combines a 156-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder gas engine and 106-hp electric motor for a total system output of 191 hp; it’s rated for 41 mpg in the city and 36 on the highway in the Fusion and Milan variants. Ford cited its hybrid as “the most fuel-efficient luxury sports sedan in America” as it returns 41  miles per gallon of average fuel consumption.

In pure electric mode, the MKZ Hybrid can reach 47 mph. While we have yet to match those numbers (the Milan hybrid we tested returned 32 mpg combined), Ford says it expects similar EPA ratings for this MKZ. The company goes on to name the car’s Public Enemy No. 1, the Lexus HS250h, and says that the MKZ will offer the best fuel economy of any luxury sports sedan.

Lincoln's first-ever hybrid model is expected to deliver at least 41mpg (5.7 lt/100km) in the city and reach speeds of up to 47 mph (75 km/h) in pure electric mode.

Lincoln’s take on the Ford hybrid theme, of course, will be much better equipped than either of its less-expensive brethren. It will include swiveling HID headlamps, cushy heated and cooled leather seats, and, of course, a slightly snazzier version of the nifty, configurable EcoGuide instrument cluster. In the Milan and Fusion hybrids, a screen-based botanical garden grows leaves and vines as a reward for fuel-efficient driving; the Lincoln adds pretty flowers!

The loads of standard features in the hybrid include, SmartGauge with EcoGuide, Lincoln SYNC, 10-Way Power Passenger Seat, Genuine Wood Trim, Reverse Sensing System, Keyless Entry Keypad, Easy Fuel Capless Fuel-Filler, Personal Safety System, MyKey, Integrated Spotter Mirrors, Acoustic Laminated Windshield and standard Bridge of Weir leather seats.

Other standard goodies include Sync voice-activated controls; sustainable wood trim for the dash, doors, and steering wheel; and reverse and cross-traffic sensors. Pricing has not yet been announced, but we speculate it will cost around $38,000 to start. Sales will begin later this year.

2011 Audi Sports Car TT Coupe Roadster

2011 Audi Sports Car

Dynamic design, enthralling performance and exemplary efficiency - the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are now more attractive than ever. The design of the lightweight bodies made primarily of aluminum and the interior have been revised with great attention to detail, while new technologies lower the fuel consumption of the compact sports car. New to the lineup is a powerful and highly efficient four cylinder: The 2.0 TFSI develops 155 kW (211 hp), but is content with an average fuel consumption of just 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers (35.64 US mpg).

2011 Audi TT Coupe and Roadster

The Audi TT Coupe and Roadster models enter the 2011 model year with some modest exterior styling changes, a revised interior and the introduction of the firm's new 2.0-liter TFSI gasoline engine with 211 ponies on the entry-level versions. The new 2.0 TFSI delivers 211HP and 258 lb-ft, or 11-horsepower and 51 lb-ft of torque more than its 2.0-liter predecessor. With the six-speed manual, the two-liter engine accelerates the Coupe from zero to 100 km/h (62mph) in 6.1 seconds on its way to a top speed of 245 km/h or 152mph.

The upgrades to the Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster have added two centimeters (0.79 in) to both cars, which now measure 4,187 millimeters (13.74 ft) in length. The width of 1,842 millimeters (6.04 ft) and the height of 1,352 millimeters (4.44 ft) and 1,357 millimeters (4.45 ft) for the Coupe and Roadster, respectively, remain unchanged. The wheelbase measures 2,468 millimeters (8.10 ft). Four new metallic colors have been added to the TT color range: Scuba Blue, Oolong Gray, Volcano Red and Dakota Gray. Daytona Gray, pearl effect is also available with the S line package.

The Audi TT 1.8 TFSI weighs a mere 1,240 kg (2,733.73 lb), a good 100 kilograms (220.46 lbs) less than its closest competitor. The body of the Coupés weighs only 206 kilograms (454.15 lb), which breaks down to 140 kilograms (308.65 lb) of aluminum (68 percent) and 66 kilograms (145.51 lb) of steel (32 percent). The specific reinforcements in the TT Roadster - steel bulkhead, strongly ribbed sills, A-pillar and windshield frame - result in a 58 to 42 percent split of the two materials.

The designers have added additional gloss to the fine interior. New aluminum-look applications shine on the steering wheel, the center console and in the door liner. Elegant accents are provided by rings, frames and strips in high-gloss black. The aluminum strip above the glove box door is now brushed gray. There are three new interior colors from which to choose - nougat brown, titanium gray and garnet red. The leather seat covers are specially treated to reduce thermal heating by as much as 20 degrees Celsius (68° F) when the Audi TT is parked in the sun.

The Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster are sports cars with a high degree of everyday utility. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the 2+2-seater Coupé, expanding the trunk space beneath the long lid from 292 to 700 liters (10.31 - 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster, which offers 250 liters (8.83 cubic ft) of storage space whether the top is up or down, can also be supplied with the option of a load-through facility.

The S line sport package features a black interior with many fine details in such places as the steering wheel, the seat covers and the applications. 18-inch wheels and body lowered by 10 millimeters (0.39 in) make the handling even more dynamic.

The updated Audi TT Coupe and the TT Roadster will debut on the German market in the summer of 2010 with only minimal changes in price. The 1.8 TFSI will be available from €30,200.