SEMA 2008: Kia Borrego Limited Concept

The Kia Borrego Limited SEMA Concept

With the Escalade on the ropes, it looks like Kia might step in to rescue all those lovers of blacked-out blinged-up chromed-out big-wheeled SUVs. The metallic black Borrego Limited Concept that debuted at SEMA today gets chrome exterior mirrors, chrome upper and lower grilles, chrome door handles, a chrome rear bumper insert, and "flashy 22-inch Avarus chrome wheels." Inside it gets (faux) alligator skin. That's right. A Kia Borrego with (faux) alligator skin. And what good is a (faux) alligator without a TV and a DVD player to complete that "assertive and sophisticated stance fit for a motorcade as much as cruising down the Vegas strip." True, this would be generic medication compared to the Escalade's real deal, but it'll be much cheaper and probably still get the job done. Maybe. But watch out for the side effects. Have a look at the not-quite-reptilian Borrego in the gallery of high-res photos below. Oh, and for the record, the Soul will be officially revealed on the 19th, at the LA Auto Show.

Faralli & Mazzanti’s Vulca, An Ultimate In Exotic Luxury

For those of you who think Ferraris and Lamborghinis are a little too common, then the Italian exotic auto builder Faralli & Mazzanti might have just the answer. The team of reserachers, designers and engineers at the company have produced only 10 numbered examples of their eye-catching Etruscan -inspired Vulca S Coupe with an unbelievable attention to detail.

The car priced at a whopping $390,000, is named after the famous Etruscan sculptor Vulca da Veio known for his artistice expressions of the mysterious and ancient population of Etruscan world, including the “Apollo di Veio”. It constitutes a lightweight, hand beaten all-aluminum body that is fashioned such that it look all “sinous, modern, elegant yet aggressive in style”.

If you look under the hood, you will find a powerful and reliable engine that is indeed part of the latest generation in technology. So much so that an exhilarating driving experience is assured. Yes, after all, the 5.8-liter V10 engine gives 600 HP. The interior has diamond stitched leather with a luxe wood trim.

Via seriouswheels

2009 Skoda To Launch New Superb

Skoda Superb will reach showrooms in February 2009. Prices of the new Superb will start at Rs 20 lakh for the base petrol model, going up to Rs 25 lakh for the top end petrol.

Board Member of Skoda India said that they will bring an exciting range of engines: a 1.8-litre, 160bhp TSI petrol, a 2.0-litre diesel with 140bhp, and a new 3.6-litre V6 petrol with 260bhp.

The V6 will be launched a few months after the 1.8 petrol and 2.0-litre diesel versions. The Superb is known for its limo-like space and will prove to be the biggest threat to Group stable-mate the Volkswagen Passat.

APRILIA SHIVER 2009

According to Aprilia... This is the first chance for U.S. motorcyclists to see what it feels like to straddle the most innovative and technically advanced V-Twin 750cc “naked” bike available today.Aprilia’s new SL750 Shiver combines all those attributes into one sophisticated new machine, thanks to a category-leading combination of technologies and components.With Aprilia staff on hand to provide product insights and technical details on the new Shiver, visitors to the Aprilia exhibit can expect to learn as well as look. From the Shiver’s “ride-by-wire” technology to its high performance brakes and suspension, Aprilia’s product professionals will provide a personalized tour of the SL750 Shiver’s many innovations. And while the Shiver is the most modern looking naked bike visitors will encounter at the show, the bike has been designed as a thoroughly enjoyable everyday rider. The 2008 Aprilia SL750 Shiver offers exceptional performance and handling capabilities in canyons, on the freeway or at the racetrack.

BAJAJ AVENGER 200 DTS I

Bajaj Auto Ltd has launched new 200cc motorcycle 'Avenger DTS-i'. The Avenger 200 DTSI is priced at 64,830 (ex-showroom New Delhi) will be available at exclusive 'Pro-broking' showrooms across the country. BAL already has a 180 cc version of Avenger DTS-i. The new Avenger now comes with an oil cooled engine capable of generating a top-speed of 115 km per hour and an optional international standards windshield option, it added. This will further strengthen Bajaj's position in the premium bike segment. The ride quality of the bike is again superb and comfortable just like the earlier version. The new engine pumps out 17.51 @ 8000rpm and have amazing torque of 16.78 Nm @6000rpm.

Bajaj Avenger 200 Dtsi technical specifications:-

Engine	Type	4-stroke, DTS-i, Oil cooled
	Displacement	198.8 cc
	Max Power	17.51 Ps / 12.88 Kw @ 7000rpm
	Max Torque	16.71 Nm @ 6000rpm
Suspension	Front	Telescopic forks 140 mm travel
	Rear	Triple rate spring, 5 way adjustable, hydraulic shock absorbers
Brakes	Front	260 mm hydraulically operated disc brake
	Rear	Mechanically expanding 130 mm drum type
Tyres	Front	90/90 x 17 49p tyre
	Rear	130/90 x 15 66p tyre
Fuel Tank	Full	14 Lts ( 3.4 liters of usable reserve)
Electricals	System	12V AC + DC
	Headlamp	60/65W

2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro

Audi's R8 supercar gets a V-10.

By Patrick Hong

2010 Audi R8 5.2 FSI Quattro

Audi announced today that a new R8 fitted with a powerful V-10 will be unveiled at the upcoming 2009 Detroit Auto Show. Along with this R8's engine upgrade comes magnetorheological dampers and minor styling changes to reflect the heightened level of performance.

Inspired by Audi's successes at 24 Hours of Le Mans, the new R8 is powered by a direct-injected 5.2-liter V-10. Instead of injecting fuel into the intake ports, fuel is atomized and sprayed directly into the combustion chambers at over 1700-psi of pressure. This allows for a higher compression ratio and better fuel burn, thus enabling the V-10 to deliver 518 bhp and 391 lb.-ft. of torque. The increase in engine efficiency also means better fuel economy. Audi tells us the R8 V-10 should achieve 17.2 mpg.

Built on an all-aluminum chassis supported at all four corners by double-wishbone suspension with Quattro all-wheel-drive, the new R8 V-10 is aided by the aforementioned dampers that automatically adjust to various road conditions. Carbon-ceramic brakes designed to withstand repeated usage with minimal fade are optional.

On the outside, very little sets the R8 V-10 apart from its 8-cylinder sibling. Up front, the crossbraces for the intake have been reduced in number from four to two. The center grille is finished in chrome. The headlight cluster features all LED lighting. And around the side, the air vents just aft of the doors are more accentuated. The vents at the rear also have two crossbraces, along with oval tailpipes instead of a pair of twin exhausts.

The Audi R8 V-10 mated with the twin-clutch R Tronic automatic transmission, will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 3.9 sec. with a top speed of 196 mph. It will go on sale in Germany in the second quarter of 2009, priced around $182,000. There is no information at this time regarding a U.S. launch date.

via : http://autos.yahoo.com/

2009 Detroit Auto Show: Preview

By Jeff Voth, CarNews Media

Volvo S60 Concept

With the hope of a bailout for the Detroit Big 3 seemingly undecided, the 2009 North American International Auto Show promises to be one of the most memorable in decades.

Some believe bankruptcy is the only answer for solving the financial crisis at General Motors, Ford and Chrysler. Others think the ripple effect of such action would usher in consequences to severe to imagine. In my opinion, the long term benefit of assisting the struggling automakers helps the economy as a whole, and far outweighs the downside of doing nothing. Waiting quietly on the sidelines is sure to invite the ruin of a system already besieged with bad news.

This is not to say providing assistance will solve all the problems of a beleaguered auto industry. And no government assistance should go unchecked. The automakers have a responsibility to make serious decisions for long term viability, as do the frontline workers. Without wage concessions and streamlining of brands, the future for the Detroit Big 3 is far from certain.

But they are not alone. Japanese, Korean and European automakers are feeling the pinch as well. Sales are down at Toyota and Honda, even though, for the most part, both companies are famous for designing reliable vehicles people want to buy. Once believed to be unassailable, it appears no company is out of harm’s way and millions of jobs hang in the balance.

With this as the backdrop, we once again head to the Motor City to see what’s in store at the 2009 NAIAS in Detroit? Here are several of the highlights we expect in early January.

BMW

BMW Z4

Bavarian Motor Works has a great deal planned for the Detroit Auto Show. On display will be the new BMW 7 Series luxury sedan and BMW 3 Series automobiles. The BMW 335d and BMW X5 xDrive35d first displayed in Los Angeles will highlight BMW Advanced Diesel with Blue Performance Technology featuring Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR). Plus, ActiveHybrid technology using an intelligent combination of the combustion engine and electric drive to substantially reduce fuel consumption will be front and center in Detroit as it is expected to reach market in 2009.

The most important introduction for BMW at this year’s NAIAS, however, may turn out to be the launch of an all-new BMW Z4. What more inspiring way could there be to forget about the current economic crisis than to introduce the world to a new luxury two-seat roadster with removable hardtop?

Built in Regensburg, Germany, two engine choices are available with the new BMW Z4. One features fully variable valve management, the other twin turbo technology and high precision injection. The top model is available with either a 6-speed manual transmission or 7-speed sport automatic with double-clutch. Dynamic Drive Control is standard on the BMW Z4, allowing the driver to adjust vehicle performance with the use three unique settings. Could this be the next “must have” roadster?

2009 Honda Insight

2009 Honda Insight

When Honda first announced it would unveil the 2009 Honda Insight at the 2009 NAIAS, we expected a grand entrance for this much anticipated five passenger, fuel saving sedan. So too, did Honda. But with the economic downturn gaining momentum, the Japanese automaker recently announced their intent to display the new Insight on the show floor in Detroit as part of the regular product line-up and forgo any of the normal fanfare associated with an auto show.

So much for the “WOW!” factor. But it should not diminish the importance of this vehicle in the marketplace. Honda expects to sell 100,000 Insight Hybrids a year in North America and there is no reason to anticipate why they can’t.

With an aggressive MSRP expected of $20,000 when it goes on sale in spring, the new Insight hybrid should have a significant price advantage over its main rival the Toyota Prius. For added fun and interactivity, Honda designed the Insight to feature the Ecological Drive Assist System. Part of a bigger plan to increased hybrid sales around the globe; we’ll provide further details in our daily reports from Detroit.

Mercedes-Benz

Mercedes-Benz BlueZERO E-Cell Plus

The creator of the automobile, Mercedes-Benz is set to unveil not one, but three new electric drive concept vehicles in Detroit. The BlueZERO E-CELL is said to be powered entirely by lithium ion batteries. This vehicle is expected to have a range of 124 miles prior to recharge.

Of most interest is the BlueZERO E-Cell Plus as it adds the Smart ForTwo turbocharged 3-cylinder engine to increase range and power. With a full tank of gasoline and full charge, Mercedes-Benz claims a cruising range of 373 miles. The equally unique BlueZERO F-Cell is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle capturing additional energy with regenerative braking. Total driving distance for this concept is expected to be 240 miles.

Ford

Rumors abound that Ford is planning to introduce the next generation 2010 Ford Taurus at the 2009 NAIAS. While one sketchy picture has been posted on the Internet so far, we’ ll have to wait and see what the new sedan looks like for ourselves before releasing photos.

Expectations for this sedan run high as the Taurus nameplate is still one of the most recognizable model designations in North America. Plenty of room for five and a fuel efficient engine should be wrapped in an aggressive exterior design. Supplementary Ford rumors include the introduction of the 2010 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 and a new Lincoln luxury crossover.

Summary

Additional vehicles expected to be unwrapped in Detroit include a gorgeous Volvo S60 Concept featuring a brand new 1.6L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. Buick will unveil the next generation Lacrosse and Chevrolet will spotlight a redesigned Equinox along with a production ready Cruze first seen in Paris earlier this year. Toyota should have the new 2010 Prius on hand as well. More surprises await and we will be there covering all the details. Watch for our day one coverage starting January 12, 2009. Happy Holidays!

http://autos.yahoo.com

American Racing VELG

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Blogged with the Flock Browser

2009 Nissan GT-R Introduced with More Power, Better Handling and New Colors

Only a year after the GT-R's market launch in Japan and less than six months after its U.S. introduction and Nissan has proceeded to the sportscar's first major round of changes which include a power increase, suspension upgrades and a new exterior color. The most significant improvement concerns the GT-R's hand-built 3.8-litre V6 twin-turbo engine which has gained 5PS thanks to some fine tuning of its electronics, taking power output to 485PS, while torque remains unchanged at 588Nm.

The engine upgrades have also led to slightly better fuel economy figures with Nissan announcing an average fuel consumption in the Japanese driving cycle of 8.3 km/l (19.5 mpg U.S.) instead of 8.2 km/l (19.3 mpg US). In addition, Nissan has increased the GT-R's fuel tank capacity from 71 liters to to 74 liters.

Another update sees the improvement of the sportscar's ride performance with modifications to the suspension spring rate settings while the 2009 model will also benefit from a set of Dunlop SP Sport 600 DSST tires. Nissan claims that the tire was developed specifically for the GT-R and it "combines grip and durability, as demonstrated during its 'time-attack' lap of the Nurburgring", which yielded a time of 7 minutes 29 seconds.

Less significant improvements for the 2009 GT-R concern the introduction of the Gun Metal grey colored Rays seven-spoke alloy wheel design for the standard and Premium Edition GT-Rs, while the Black Edition will be fitted with the same design but, appropriately, in black. Additionally, customers can now choose a new deep white pearl color called 'Storm' which replaces the original pearl white which had a slightly darker shade.

Last but not least Nissan has also hiked the prices for its subtly updated GT-R. In the U.K. for example, customers ordering now will have to pay £56,795 on the road for the basic version with an increase of £1300 for the Premium Edition (£58,095) and another £1300 for the Black Edition (£59,395). This represents an increase of 3.8 percent.

In Europe, the first GT-Rs are scheduled to hit dealerships in April 2009. To date, Nissan has taken in excess of 2500 customer orders in Europe with 1200 coming from the UK. Any new customer orders should expect delivery in mid 2010.

source : carscoop.blogspot.com

Mercedes to Unveil Concept BlueZero in Detroit - Previews 2010 B-Class

Mercedes-Benz, or to be exact, German car magazine Autobild, has released a series of sketches previewing the "Concept BlueZero" that will allegedly make its worldwide debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11. The all-electric concept car is said to give us a first taste of the next generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class that's scheduled to hit dealerships in early 2010. The most anticipated version of the luxury 5-door hatch will be a fuel-cell powered variant which is expected to go on sale during 2010. According to Mercedes-Benz, it will be the first series production model to be offered with such a drivetrain.

The 2010 B-Class Fuel Cell model will be powered by a new generation of fuel-cell drive that is much more compact than other systems while at the same time offering better performance and, according to Mercedes, will be completely suitable for everyday use.

The electric motor used on the prototype B-Class Fuel-Cell develops a maximum output of 136HP and a torque figure of 320 Nm. Merc's engineers claim that the fuel cell model will give better acceleration figures than a B-Class fitted with a standard 2.0-liter petrol engine while consuming the equivalent of just 2.9 liters of fuel (diesel equivalent) per 100 km or 81.1 mpg US.

Via: Autobild

Duke 990 By Bajaj

Auto-Expo2008-According to the Bajaj Motor’s Manager Gaurav,Bajaj will Launch some Super Bikes in India with a 7-8 months times Including KTM 950R and Duke 990.
You will get these Bikes in Pro-Biking Store(Professional Biking).Bajaj have already purchased 40percent stakes of these bikes.
We would say, Bajaj will be a Super Hero with Super Bikes.

SPECIFICATIONS FOR DUKE


ENGINE

• Engine type: Twin cylinder, 4-stroke, V 75
• Displacement: 999 cc
• Bore x stroke: 101 x 62.4 mm (3.98 x 2.46″)
• Performance (homologated): 88 kW @ 9000 rpm
• Max. torque: 100 Nm @ 7000 rpm
• Compression ratio: 11.5:1
• Starter: E-Starter

• Transmission: 6 gears, dog-clutch engagement
• Fuel Mixture Generation: Electronic fuel injection
• Control: DOHC
• Lubrication: Pressure lubrication
• Engine lubrication: Motorex Power Synt 4T 10W50
• Primary drive: 67:35
• Final drive: 17:38
• Cooling: Liquid cooled
• Clutch: Wet multi-disc clutch, operated hydraulically
• Motor Management: Keihin indirect intake port injection

CHASSIS

• Frame: Chromium-molybdenum, powder-coated
• Subframe: Aluminium
• Handlebar: Renthal Aluminium, conified

• Front suspension: WP USD 48 mm (1.89″)
• Rear suspension: WP monoshock
• Suspension travel front / rear: 135 / 160 mm (5.31 / 6.3″)

• Front brake: 2 x Brembo 4-piston caliper, 2 x 320 mm (12.6″)
• Rear brake: Brembo single-piston floating caliper, brake disc 240 mm (9.45″)

• Rims, front / rear: 3.5 x 17″; 4.5 x 17″
• Tires, front / rear: 120/70 ZR 17″; 180/55 ZR 17″

• Battery: 12 V / 11.2 Ah
• Main silencer: 2 x premium steel with three-way-catalyser

• Steering head angle: 66.5
• Trail: 103 mm (4.06″)
• Wheel base: 1438 mm (56.61″)
• Ground clearance (unloaded): 165 mm (6.5″)
• Seat height: 855 mm (33.66″)
• Fuel capacity: approx. 15 liters (3.96 gal)
• Weight (no fuel): approx. 184 kg (405.7 lbs)

SPESIFIKASI Suzuki Lanza- (GSR 150)

Inspired from the styling of GSR 400 and GSR 600, new GSR 150 boasts masculine styling cues. With a bikini fairing, wolf-eyed headlamps and pilot lamps mounted on either side the styling of the GSR is little conserative. GSR 150’s muscular fuel tank is alike the one seen in TVS Apache RTR .

While Suzuki’s counterpart Yamaha stormed the 150cc segment with the launch of YZF R15 and FZ16 , Suzuki’s foray into the segment is expected to be create similar impact in the segment.

GSR 150 has no monshock, but comes with the contemporary gas charged suspension at the rear. Disc brake at the front and drum at the rear is as typical of any 150cc bike. Gear lever is the comfortable heel and toe type and GSR 150 comes with a six speed transmission.

It will take on the Bajaj Pulsar , TVS apache RTR , Honda Unicorn , Hero Honda Hunk and Yamaha FZ16 . Going by the history of Suzuki, GSR 150 is expected to be priced with premium over the peers. Expect the price of GSR

150 around Rs. 70,000.





Specifications ::

VEHICLE SUMMARY
Name :: GSR 150 Lanza
Type :: Sports

ENGINE SPECIFICATIONS
Displacement :: 150cc
Gears :: 5 Speed
Cooling Type :: Air Cooling





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# Tacho Meter
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# Low Fuel Indicator
# Low Oil Indicator

NEW BMW 335d BluePerformance

BMW 335d BluePerformance and the BMW X5 xDrive35d BluePerformance mark the entering of a new era in the company's mission to deliver ultimate driving machines that combine superior performance with exemplary fuel economy, as the BMW Group debuted two vehicle models equipped with the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

Successfully meeting the strict exhaust emissions requirements of the North American automobile market, BMW Advanced Diesel - slated to hit US roadways in November 2008 - will be available in all 50 states. The wide availability of these vehicles marks a significant milestone in the BMW EfficientDynamics strategy, which seeks to offer customers in automobile markets around the world maximum driving pleasure with minimum fuel consumption and emissions.

BMW Advanced Diesel technology is being introduced into the US market in the form of the 3.0-liter inline-six featuring Variable Twin Turbo Technology - an engine widely acknowledged as the unchallenged benchmark for sporting performance, motoring refinement and superior efficiency in other markets around the world. At the 2008 NAIAS, BMW is presenting this 265-hp high-performance diesel engine in both the BMW X5 xDrive35d and the BMW 335d. To ensure full compliance with the demanding emission standards in California and other US states, BMW uses SCR technology to reduce nitric oxides (NOX), enabling nationwide introduction of BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance as a 50-state model (BIN5).

New generation of diesel technology: Maximum dynamism, minimum emissions.

Maximum power, supreme efficiency: The first BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance is particularly well-suited to combine the driving dynamics and motoring refinement of a premium automobile with the most current and demanding standards for preserving resources and reducing emissions. Featuring exceptional power and torque, the 3.0 liter inline-six diesel is one of the most fuel-efficient and economical engines in its class.

Applying Variable Twin Turbo Technology, a small turbocharger first cuts in at low engine speeds. Thanks to its low inertia, this turbocharger develops boost (and extra power) in response to even the smallest movement to the gas pedal and without the slightest delay. As engine speed increases, the second, larger turbocharger cuts in, developing maximum torque of 425 lb-ft at just 1,750 rpm. Interaction of the two turbochargers is controlled by the particularly efficient, high-performance electronic engine control unit.

In addition to the above Variable Twin Turbo Technology, new technical highlights of BMW Advanced Diesel - presented for the first time in 2007 - include an aluminum crankcase and third-generation common-rail direct fuel injection. Featuring precision-quality precise piezo-injectors to deliver the precise dosage of fuel into the combustion chambers with the smallest volume of pre-injection, the third generation system ensures a particularly clean injection process with optimized fuel consumption, emissions figures and running smoothness.

Given all of these qualities, BMW's 3.0-liter diesel with Variable Twin Turbo has won the prestigious International Engine of the Year Award multiple times - more than any other prize or acknowledgement. The engine is featured in a large number of models in Europe and is now expanding its global story of success as the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance.

At the 2008 NAIAS, the BMW 335d featuring Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance for maximum output of 265 hp and peak torque of 425 lb-ft. provided a clear and convincing demonstration of these qualities. On the road, this means acceleration from 0-62 mph in 6.2 seconds and average fuel economy of 23/33 mpg (city/highway).

The BMW X5 xDrive35d also debuted in Detroit. Like the BMW 335d, the X5 xDrive35d offers sporting character through BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance, while standing out as a high-torque Sports Activity Vehicle with excellent qualities for long-distance motoring. The BMW X5 xDrive35d accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 7.2 seconds and offers average fuel economy of at least 19/25 mpg (city/highway).

NEW Suzuki Grand Vitara 2009

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2009 RED CHOICE

Suzuki Grand Vitara 2009 BLACK CHOICE

Recognized by AutoPacific as the "ideal" compact SUV/off-road vehicle, Suzuki Grand Vitara surpasses other SUVs in its size and price category in balancing off-road capability with the very real needs of a daily commute. The vehicle's surprising off-road performance is matched by an equally impressive interior, making the Grand Vitara the perfect choice for adventure-minded drivers seeking to confidently explore the outside world in comfort and style. The ultimate discovery vehicle, the Suzuki Grand Vitara helps customers engage directly with their environment and their experiences.

For 2009, the rugged and award-winning Suzuki Grand Vitara, a true SUV in a segment of "soft-roaders," offers "brute-ute" owners the opportunity to resize for better fuel economy without settling for a "cute-ute" lacking full SUV capability. A standard, all-new four-cylinder engine provides drivers with better mileage, and a new, more powerful V6 delivers fuel economy better than the V6 it replaces.

A new grille and front bumper design accent the Suzuki Grand Vitara distinctive, chiseled-yet-elegant lines, with additional interior enhancements, including illuminated steering wheel controls, a sliding front center armrest, visor extenders, HVAC controls, upgraded audio system and updated cloth upholstery. As with all retail 2009 Suzuki automobiles and light trucks, the Grand Vitara is backed by America's #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Performance and Functionality

The new Suzuki-developed 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 166 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of peak torque, delivering EPA fuel economy estimates of up to 19 mpg/city and 26 mpg/highway. Available for Suzuki Grand Vitara XSport and Luxury models is a new 3.2-liter V6 engine with 230 horsepower and 213 lb.-ft. of torque, replacing the 2.7-liter V6 engine in 2008 Grand Vitara that produced 185 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. Despite an increase of 45 horsepower, the new V6 betters the old motor in fuel economy ratings. The new engine is also 20 percent cleaner than the 2008 model as measured by the State of California's smog index rating. The new V6 also features variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust camshafts, and both Suzuki Grand Vitara engines use a zero-maintenance timing chain in place of a belt.

The Grand Vitara's new four-cylinder engine can be teamed to a standard five-speed manual transmission or a new four-speed automatic transmission, while the V6 is matched to a standard five-speed automatic transmission. To help fulfill their sense of adventure, customers can choose among RWD models, Single-Mode four-wheel drive or Four-Mode full-time four-wheel drive, a traction system unlike anything else offered in the segment. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP®) is standard for all Suzuki Grand Vitara models, along with a new rollover sensor for the standard side curtain airbags. Enhancing performance on any road is a strengthened structure for 2009, plus rear disc brakes that replace the previous drums.

Suzuki Four-Mode four-wheel drive offers the best of both worlds: further aided by a completely retuned suspension, it is exceptionally capable off-road but is civilized on the asphalt. On pavement, drivers can leave the dash-mounted transfer case switch in 4H and the electronically controlled on-demand four-wheel-drive system will apply traction to the front wheels only as needed, optimizing economy. When traveling off-road, or for low-speed power and traction, drivers can turn the switch to high-range 4H Lock or low-range 4L Lock to engage the center differential lock. The V6 models with Four-Mode full-time four-wheel drive also feature Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, which can enhance driving safety on steep slopes.

For RV owners, a Suzuki Grand Vitara equipped with an automatic transmission or with the Four-Mode full-time four-wheel-drive system can also be flat-towed. Switching the transfer case control into the neutral position helps minimize driveline wear and prevent non-driving miles from accumulating on the odometer.

Built Like a Brute

The Suzuki Grand Vitara continues Suzuki's 40-year heritage of building compact but rugged SUV-type vehicles, including a model named "Brute." The current Grand Vitara has proven its durability in some of the toughest global markets. Key to the Grand Vitara's go-anywhere capability is its unibody construction with integrated ladder frame, rear-drive-based driveline and four-wheel independent suspension. Typically, only luxury SUVs offer this premium architecture. This type of construction yields the strength and capability sought in large SUVs, while providing the on-road agility and ride quality expected in a modern compact SUV.

Also separating the Suzuki Grand Vitara from the "high wagons" in the segment is the availability of a Four-Mode full time four-wheel-drive system with two-speed transfer case. This hardware, combined with its rugged body construction, steep approach and departure angles, and 7.9 inches of ground clearance (4WD models), enables the Grand Vitara to keep going when the pavement turns to trail. In addition, the Suzuki Grand Vitara 3,000-lb. towing capacity (with V6) is double that of many car-based models and enough to haul light recreational boats, ATVs or motorcycles.

Safety

Beyond offering a strong-yet-weight-optimized structure, the unibody with built-in ladder frame contributes to collision protection in the Suzuki Grand Vitara. The reinforced cabin has the added safety of head-impact protection pad and front and rear side-impact door beams.

Active safety (the ability to help avoid an accident) technology in every Suzuki Grand Vitara model includes anti-lock braking system with electronic brake-force distribution, tire pressure monitoring system and ESP with traction control. ESP helps ensure vehicle stability when cornering, under acceleration, during emergency maneuvers and when driving on slippery road surfaces. Taking input from a variety of sensors, ESP has the ability to apply individual brakes and reduce engine torque to help the driver maintain the desired line of travel.

Standard passive safety features in every Suzuki Grand Vitara model include driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbag supplemental restraint systems (SRS), advanced dual-stage front airbag SRS, advanced weight-sensing front passenger airbag SRS and front and rear side-curtain airbags networked with a rollover sensor. The three-point driver and front passenger seat belts feature pretensioners and shoulder height adjustment. Each rear seating position is equipped with a three-point seatbelt and a headrest. Also provided is a rear child-seat LATCH system (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children).

The Grand Vitara's safety engineering also reflects Suzuki's attention to pedestrian impacts demanded in many global markets. The front end and the bumper integrate energy-absorbing materials to help reduce the possibility of serious leg injuries. The hood is designed to absorb some of the impact and help protect against serious head injuries. These factors helped the 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara earn the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's highest rating of good in its most recent frontal crash protection test. In combination, these active and passive safety features make Suzuki Grand Vitara one of the best-equipped compact SUVs with respect to safety.

The Look and Function of a Suzuki

To simplify and improve the driver experience, Suzuki offers easy-to-use features that add useful, real-world functionality to each vehicle. The Suzuki Grand Vitara shows its Suzuki sensibilities in the simple, uncluttered design. Form follows function, with styling that does not compromise visibility, as it does in many crossover-type SUVs. Handsome good looks are part of the mix, too, along with SUV necessities, including short overhangs and roof rails. Exterior mirrors, door handles and bumpers are all color keyed.

The compact exterior footprint contains a roomy, comfortable and versatile cabin to take people and cargo on daily trips or extraordinary voyages. The Suzuki Grand Vitara offers comfortable seating for five, including reclining rear seats, and 24.4 cu.-ft. of storage space with the rear seats up. Cargo space expands to 68.9 cu.-ft. with the 60/40 split-folding seatbacks folded. High-quality materials and attention to fit and finish should help make a driver accustomed to a large luxury SUV feel at home. Controls are easy to access and use, which anyone used to driving a large luxury SUV might find refreshing.

Four Trim Lines, Two Engines, Three Drivelines

The 2009 Suzuki Grand Vitara four-cylinder model is offered in four trim levels: Base, Premium, XSport and Luxury. The base model is RWD only, but its list of standard equipment is far from basic and includes: air conditioning with automatic climate control and micron air filtration system, trip computer, power windows, mirrors and door locks, remote keyless entry, tilt steering wheel, automatic on/off headlamps, four-speaker AM/FM/CD/MP3/XM Satellite Radio®-capable audio system and 16-inch wheels.

The Premium model (four-cylinder only) adds an available four-speed automatic transmission, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with illuminated audio controls, cruise control, privacy glass, full-size spare tire cover, cargo cover, and, when equipped with the optional Single-Mode four-wheel drive, heated exterior mirrors.

The XSport, available with RWD or Four-Mode four-wheel drive, adds function and luxury features, including power tilt-and-slide sunroof, the SmartPass™ keyless entry and start system, six-disc CD changer, 16-inch aluminum alloy wheels, roof rack rails and fog lamps. With the V6, XSport 4WD also gains Hill Descent Control and Hill Hold Control, 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, eight-speaker audio system with subwoofer and center channel speaker and door-mounted courtesy lights. In addition, the XSport deletes the full-size spare tire cover and replaces the standard steel spare wheel with a handsome matching alloy for a strong SUV image.

The top-of-the-line Luxury builds on the XSport equipment and adds leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, eight-speaker audio with subwoofer and center channel speaker black wood grain trim accents and full-size spare tire cover (with steel spare). With the V6, the Grand Vitara Luxury trim line also receives 18-inch alloy wheels and a HomeLink® wireless control system. In all Suzuki Grand Vitara models, standard and optional audio systems are XM Satellite Radio®-capable, and an accessory iPod® interface is available. A connected iPod® works seamlessly through the radio or the steering-wheel-integrated controls, with playlists and track information appearing on the audio display.

SOURCE : http://www.netcarshow.com