Suzuki 2010 New Review Specification |
| 2011 Lexus IS-F in Paris Preshow |
Gotcha! Here are the best pictures yet of Mercedes’ next SLK. Spied testing in Germany, these latest shots reveal almost every detail of the newcomer’s styling.
Penned by design boss Gorden Wagener, the SLK refines the successful two-door folding metal hardtop bodystyle that debuted way back in 1997. The all-new third generation car gets a prominent nose that’s clearly inspired by Mercedes’ range-topping SLS AMG supercar, while the swept-back headlights owe much to the latest CLS that will debut at the Paris Motor Show.
In profile, the SLK looks very similar to its predecessor, albeit with a new crease which runs from the front wing indicator back into the doors to add a little extra visual drama. Once again, the SLK features a two-piece retractable roof .
At the rear, the SLK features an angular bootlid, which is similar to that sported by the current E-Class Coupe, flanked by LED taillights. The newcomer also gets trapezoidal exhaust pipe tips.
On the inside, the design will be influenced by the SLS. A minimalist design and retro air vents are likely to feature, along with the firm’s clever AirScarf neck warmers built into the seats.
Under the bonnet, the SLK gets a new range of engines. The entry level SLK200 will get the 201bhp 1.8-litre CGI petrol, while the convertible gets diesel power for the first time, courtesy of the 201bhp 2.4-litre CDI unit from the E-Class. The 300 V6 model is discontinued, but the SLK350 gains the revised 302bhp direct injection V-Series 3.5-litre V6. A performance version is likely to be offered, which may be powered by AMG's hotly anticipated twin-turbo 3.5-litre V6 which produces around 465bhp. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express
MEET the Citroen that’s riding high! These are the first pictures of the firm’s new DS4 hatch, which delivers on the style promised by the DS High Rider concept seen at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.
Following the DS3, which is based on the C3 supermini, the DS4 features a more extravagantly designed exterior than the C4 which underpins it. The newcomer measures 4.27 metres long, 1.81 metres wide and 1.53 metres high, making it shorter, wider and 10cm taller than the regular C4 and a little bigger than the MINI Countryman.
At the front, the hatchback wears the latest Citroen family face, that debuted on the C5. The extra chrome on the two-bar grille and the pair of boomerang-shaped daytime running lights add class, while at the side, generously flared wheelarches house 19-inch alloys, although smaller rims are available.
The coupé-like roof line and upswept shoulder line taper towards the rear, where the handle for each of the small back doors is hidden.
On the tail, the DS4 features a scalloped bumper with neatly integrated exhaust pipe exits.
The interior boasts higher-class materials than in the regular C4 hatch. Liberal use of chrome for the dials, leather on the dash and doors, plus aluminium for the pedals demonstrates the firm’s attention to getting the luxury details right. Buyers will be given the choice of five leather combinations. Top-specification cars feature hide trim designed to mimic expensive watch bracelets linked together. Meanwhile, every variant gets a panoramic windscreen which extends backwards into the roof line and helps bathe the cabin in light.
Also available is a high-end stereo system and front seats with a massage function. All cars come with a unique selection of four exotically named tones for the various warning sounds: Classic, Crystal Symphony, Jungle Fantasy and Urban Rythmik.
Despite the DS4’s style and luxury, practicality is still high on the agenda. The passenger door pockets have been enlarged, and a cooled centre console storage bin is standard fit. At 370 litres, the boot is larger than that of a Volkswagen Golf, too. Safety kit includes blind-spot monitoring and a speed limiter, fitted in accordance with the Safety Assist section of Euro NCAP crash tests.
Under the bonnet, the DS4 features a line-up of five engines. Diesel buyers can choose from a 110bhp 1.6-litre unit with e-HDi stop/start tech and regenerative braking, and a 160bhp 2.0-litre. There are three petrol choices, too: a 120bhp 1.6 VTi, and a pair of turbocharged 1.6-litre units with 155bhp or, in the range-topping car, 200bhp.
The DS4 debuts at October’s Paris Motor Show, before going on sale in the UK in early 2011. For more details click here.
Thanks to: Auto Express
Nissan announced its 2010 L.A. Auto Show model introductions today, and by the looks of the vehicle list, they're sure to attract plenty of attention. Three of the four planned debuts are world premieres.
Headlining the display is the brand's all-new Ellure concept. The sedan is said to add strong innovation to the typically drab four-door sedan.
