In depth : 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour [100+ images]

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

TORRANCE, Calif. : November 3, 2009 - The Honda Accord Crosstour combines the sophisticated refinement of a premium sedan with versatile aspects from an SUV to create an entirely distinct concept within the Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) segment. Leveraging the many benefits of a car-based design, the Accord Crosstour starts with the top-level refinement of the Accord V-6 Sedan and further expands utility with a sleek-yet-functional profile for increased cargo space.


Taken in its entirety, the Accord Crosstour is designed to fulfill multiple roles with a stylish exterior and premium interior appointments from the passenger cabin to the cargo area. Yet it can also deliver elevated levels of utility with accommodating under-floor storage and reversible cargo area floor panels for dirty objects. Cargo area access is further enhanced with a large-opening tailgate and a low lift-over height.

All Accord Crosstour models come standard with a 271-horsepower i-VTEC V-6 engine with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) designed for power and efficiency. A technologically advanced 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment. For CUV capability, the Accord Crosstour provides 6.0 inches of ground clearance and Real Time™ 4WD drive is available.

Accord Crosstour Highlights

• Five-door, five-passenger premium CUV
• Unit-body construction with double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension
• 271-horsepower, 3.5-liter, 24-valve, SOHC, i-VTEC® V-6 engine with VCM
• Standard 5-speed automatic transmission
• Available Real Time 4WD
• Standard safety: Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®); dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; driver's and front passenger's side airbags; and side curtain airbags

The double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension system is tuned to respond with engaging and refined dynamics. Active Sound Control (ASC) uses the audio system to acoustically minimize certain types of engine noise for a quiet cabin. The two available audio systems offer a powerful sound experience with seven speakers including a subwoofer and 360 watts of amplification.

Key Specifications

• Horsepower / torque: 271 hp @ 6,200 RPM / 254 lb-ft. @ 5,000 RPM
• EPA-estimated fuel economy (miles per gallon)1 : 18 city / 27 highway (2WD)
• Emissions: ULEV-2 (CARB) / Tier 2, Bin 5 (Federal)
• Length x width x height (inches): 196.8 x 74.7 x 65.7
• Wheelbase (inches): 110.1
• Passenger / cargo volume (cubic feet): 101.4 (2WD) / 25.7

The Accord Crosstour introduces multiple innovations for Honda in different parts of the vehicle, most notably in the standard 5-speed automatic transmission and in the available Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System™2. New technology in the transmission includes enhanced gear holding capability that takes into account cornering G-forces, plus a more sophisticated downshift capability that more closely matches engine revolutions during manual downshifts for refined transitions to lower gears. The navigation system incorporates voice activation with a greatly expanded recognition vocabulary totaling 100,000 words and greater sensitivity to more casual and varied commands. The rearview camera included with the navigation system also incorporates guidance lines.

Summary of New Technology and Exclusive Equipment

• Automatic transmission lateral G-force gear hold control (Honda brand first)
• Automatic RPM rev-matching when downshifting (Honda brand first)
• Front shock absorbers with internal rebound springs
• New type of reflection minimizing coating on navigation screen (Honda first)
• Expanded VCM engagement range for improved overall fuel efficiency (Honda first)
• Active Sound Control for cancellation of certain types of engine noise (Honda brand first)

Smart Details

• Carpeted lids in cargo area reverse to create a plastic, easy-to-clean surface
• Dual-zone automatic air conditioning with humidity sensitivity control
• Reverse-linked side mirror control
• Projector-beam headlights
• Kevlar® cone speakers (exclusive to Accord Crosstour EX-L)
  

Exterior Styling
The Accord Crosstour integrates a sleek and aerodynamic shape that blends sporty, low-profile contours with versatile CUV functionality. The exterior styling builds on the Accord's familiar character lines and adds a bolder front grille complemented by a durable lower-body appearance, wedge-shaped D-pillars and an aggressive rear stance. The flowing roofline narrows smoothly into the rear of the vehicle to create an aggressive-looking design, concealing a unique cargo area that can adapt to large objects that exceed the capacity of a normal sedan. An inwardly sculpted beltline starting at the front fenders smoothly transitions to an outward facing character line at the rear fenders, resulting in a visually dynamic effect.

Interior Styling and Functionality
“Premium and active” represents the dual role functionality of the Accord Crosstour's interior design. Consistent with all Accords, a variety of design techniques were used to enhance the feeling of width and space in the passenger cabin to express premium and accommodating quality. The inset sculpting of the instrument panel along with a wide center console increases the sense of roominess. Intuitively grouped controls for the audio, climate and available navigation system are designed to operate with solidity and precision. Attention to craftsmanship can be found in details like double stitching on the available leather surfaces, plush floor carpeting and the presence of features like rear ventilation outlets built into the center console.

Two available interior color combinations create distinctly individual environments for different customer preferences. The charcoal black interior is intended to convey a chic and sporty environment and features a monochromatic black instrument panel divided with wood trim-appearance highlights. The ivory interior is intended to create a sophisticated and bright ambiance and features a two-tone instrument panel with a black upper segment and tan lower segment. Wood trim-style accents divide the upper and lower portion of the instrument panel. Premium craftsmanship can also be found in the selection of high-quality materials in the cargo area. Durable level-loop carpet occupies the cargo area to help cushion contents. A polished metal kick plate at the base of the cargo area opening resists scuffing and appears upscale yet durable.

Designed for people with active lifestyles, the cargo area incorporates useful and versatile features that make configuring the vehicle for people or large items a simple operation. Levers near the interior fender wells, conveniently accessible from the tailgate opening, allow for one-touch conversion of the seats into the floor and create 51.3 cubic feet of cargo space in the process. An 8.4-inch deep under-floor Hidden Removable Utility Box creates 1.9 cubic feet of storage space and includes a durable removable tray that can be used for the temporary storage of wet or dirty items. Two additional side trays provide additional space for smaller items. The carpeted lid of the cargo box can be flipped over to the plastic side to protect the carpet from dirty items. The rear cargo area measures 41.7 inches long by 55.7 inches wide (at widest point). Maximum cargo length measures 75.5 inches with the rear seats reclined. The Accord Crosstour EX-L model is equipped with a cargo cover that allows for valuables to be stored out-of-sight. The cover is specially designed to open and shut in tandem with the tailgate for convenient one-motion access to the cargo area.

Chassis
The Accord platform is recognized for its refined dynamic performance and a fun-to-drive feel that can be engaging on twisty roads yet relaxed on long stretches of freeway. The fully independent design of the double wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension allows the tires to maintain a superior contact patch through a broad range of suspension travel and steering inputs.

The Accord Crosstour adds exclusive chassis features and tuning to further refine and enhance the platform's inherent qualities. Exclusive features include front shock absorbers with internal rebound springs for enhanced responsiveness and comfort, along with a steering system with a constant gear ratio instead of the Accord's variable steering gear ratio setup. Additional unique tuning compared to the Accord includes Accord Crosstour-specific spring rates, shock absorbers and stabilizer bars. Weight distribution on front-wheel-drive models measures 59/41 percent front-to-rear. Weight distribution on four-wheel-drive models measure 57/43 percent front-to-rear.

VCM cylinder i-VTEC SOHC 3.5-liter engine

Powertrain
The Accord Crosstour's standard i-VTEC SOHC 3.5-liter engine can deactivate up to half of the engine's cylinders when less power is needed while cruising or decelerating. The system provides V-6 power when accelerating or climbing, as well as the fuel efficiency of a smaller engine while cruising. The engine produces 271 horsepower at 6,200 RPM and 254 lb-ft. of torque at 5,000 RPM while achieving an EPA-rated city/highway fuel economy of 18/27 mpg1 on 2WD models. The VCM cylinder deactivation system is programmed to run on 3, 4 or 6 cylinders, based on current power requirements. Powered by the intelligence of i-VTEC technology, VCM quickly and seamlessly activates or deactivates 2 or 3 cylinders by closing an individual cylinder's intake and exhaust valves at the same time while also shutting off the fuel injectors on the closed cylinders.

A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment and integrates a new downshift rev-match feature for smooth and sporty manual downshifts. Available exclusively on the Accord Crosstour EX-L, the fully automatic Real Time 4WD system enhances all-weather and light duty off-road capabilities when driving in rain, snow, dirt roads and sandy conditions without the significant weight, fuel economy and handling performance drawbacks of a conventional four-wheel-drive system. The efficient dual-pump system sends power to the rear wheels only when there is insufficient traction for the front-wheel-drive system.

Safety Technology
Safety technology includes the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, a Honda-exclusive body design that enhances occupant protection and crash compatibility in frontal collisions. Additional safety equipment includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), commonly referred to as Electronic Stability Control; anti-lock brakes with electronic brake distribution and brake assist; side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor; driver's and front passenger's side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); dual-stage, multiple threshold front airbags; and active front seat head restraints.

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour body, interior and powertrain (4WD model shown)

Trim Levels
The Accord Crosstour is available in two model choices, the EX and EX-L. Highlights of standard features on the Accord Crosstour EX include: dual-zone automatic air conditioning with second row ventilation, 360-Watt AM/FM 6-disc audio system with 7 speakers, easy fold-down 60-40 split rear seat back, 17-inch aluminum wheels with 225/65 R17 all-season tires, hidden removable utility box, cruise control, moonroof, auto up/down driver and front passenger side windows, rear privacy glass, steering wheel-integrated audio controls, compass and outside temperature indicator, projector beam headlights with auto-off, fog lights, chrome door handles, body-colored power side mirrors with defrost, and more.

The Accord Crosstour EX-L adds or upgrades: leather-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats, leather steering wheel, leather gear shift knob, auto day/night dimming rearview mirror, 18-inch aluminum wheels with 225/60 R18 all-season tires, auto on/off headlights, memory driver-side seats, memory side mirrors with reverse tilting capability, cargo privacy cover, HomeLink™ transmitter, cargo privacy cover, Kevlar® cone speakers, aluminum dome-type front tweeter speakers and a USB audio interface.

Available features exclusive to the Accord Crosstour EX-L include the Honda Satellite-linked Navigation System and Real Time 4WD, available together or separately. The navigation system includes a backup camera with guidance lines integrated into the display.

Manufacturing
The Accord Crosstour is assembled in Ohio at the Honda of America Mfg., Inc., East Liberty Auto Plant using domestic and globally sourced parts.

Accord Crosstour Specifications and Comparisons

	2010 Honda Accord Crosstour	2010 Honda Accord EX V-6 Sedan	2009 Toyota Venza V6	2010 Nissan Murano
Engines	3.5L V-6 271HP (standard)	3.5L V-6 271HP (available)	3.5L V-6 268HP (available)	3.5L V-6 265HP (standard)
Cylinder Deactivation	Standard (VCM)	Standard (VCM)	Not Available	Not Available
Transmission	5AT	5AT	6AT	CVT
EPA Fuel Economy, (City/Highway)	2WD 18/27Z 4WD 17/253 (3.5L)	19/29 (3.5L)3	2WD 19/26 AWD 18/25 (3.5L)	2WD 18/23 AWD 18/23 (3.5L)
Seating Capacity	5	5	5	5
Length, in.	196.8	194.3	189.0	188.5
Wheelbase, in.	110.1	110.2	109.3	111.2
Passenger Volume, cu-ft.	101.4 (2WD)	101.0 (EX)	108.0	108.8
Cargo Volume, cu-ft. min / max	25.7 / 51.3	14.0 / NA	34.4 / 70.1	31.6 / 64.5
Cargo Area Length, in.	41.7	NA	40.3	36.4
Suspension Fr / Rr	Double wishbone / Multi-link	Double wishbone / Multi-link	MacPherson Strut / Dual-link MacPherson strut	Strut / Multi-link
Ground Clearance	6.0	5.7	8.1	7.4
Fuel Tank Capacity	18.5	18.5	17.7	21.7

1 - Based on 2010 EPA mileage estimates, reflecting new EPA fuel economy methods beginning with 2008 models. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.. 4WD models achieve city/hwy fuel economy of 17/25 miles per gallon.
2 - The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ is available on the Accord Crosstour EX-L model in the United States, except Alaska. Please see the navigation system manual for details.

Images : 2010 Honda Accord Tourer

[Source : HONDA]

TAG Heuer’s MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini Revs-Up the Ante for Luxury Communication Instruments

TAG Heuer MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini Cell Phone

TAG Heuer’s MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini Revs-Up the Ante for Luxury Communication Instruments. Inspired by the power and grace of the mythic Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640, TAG Heuer, the world leader in luxury sports watches and chronographs, has teamed up with the famous Italian super sports car manufacturer to create the limited-edition MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini communication instrument.

TAG Heuer MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini Cell Phone

The MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini is hand-assembled and composed of more than 400 mechanical components, many derived from legendary TAG Heuer chronographs. Like the supercar, it handles beautifully, with such distinctive features as a dual-time display for discreet at-a-glance time monitoring and the TAG Heuer dual-function control switch to track incoming calls.

In tribute to the year Automobili Lamborghini was founded, only 1963 pieces of this finely-tuned device will be sold worldwide.

“Relentless in its pursuit of performance, TAG Heuer has revolutionized first timekeeping and now mobile communication by finding technological inspiration in professional motor sports and Grand Tourism cars,” said Steve Amstutz, General Manager for TAG Heuer Communication Instruments. “In partnering with Automobili Lamborghini, TAG Heuer reinforces its automotive legacy with the most extreme supersportscar of all.”
Housed in black titanium carbide coated 316L stainless steel, the razor-sharp design of the MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini references the super sports car down to its famed signature on the battery cover – the same as on the Lamborghini Murciélago LP 640’s V12 engine block. The back of the device is engraved with its limited edition number while the minimalist black keyboard is customized with Automobili Lamborghini’s trademark Taurus bull on the steel central button.

The MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini is luxuriously crafted and detailed, marrying the most prestigious materials and advanced components in the watchmaking and automotive worlds. The display is made from 60.5 carats scratch-resistant sapphire crystal, combining exceptional light transmission with great stability in all thermodynamic conditions. Its battery life is unrivalled and offers a seven hours talk time or 28 days standby power.

Requiring three years of intense research and development, 700 prototypes, and the punishing quality control testing for which TAG Heuer and Lamborghini are famous, the MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini is an extraordinary communication device of bespoke digital engineering. It’s hot-wired with sound processes and chamber design fine-tuned for crystal clear acoustics. Special software enables customized Automobili Lamborghini screen animation and wallpaper. The ultra-sensitive antenna – twice as efficient as other radio standard-compliant products – ensures the MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini’s unbeatable connectivity where all other communication instruments fail.

"The MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini epitomizes TAG Heuer consistency in inspiring and framing its diversification, combining technology and design, and partnering with the best sports car Brands and engineers to come up with unique Masterpieces in all three fields we compete. We are very proud of this new partnership with such a great Brand as Lamborghini" added Jean-Christophe Babin, President & CEO of the TAG Heuer Group.

TAG Heuer and Automobili Lamborghini: A Shared Passion for Precision and Performance

The master of time to a formidable 1/10,000th of a second, TAG Heuer has merged timekeeping and motor-racing in a number of award-winning timepieces: From the original Monaco, the watch made famous by Steve McQueen in the 1970 race film classic “Le Mans,” to its groundbreaking new offspring, the just-launched Monaco V4 with its double-patented belt-driven movement inspired by the V-shaped cylinders in a high-end motor racing engine.

Since 1963, Lamborghini has been the purest, most muscular expression of performance. Engineered for explosive power and spectacular speed and beauty, the super sports car is the singular vision of an Italian industrialist, Ferruccio Lamborghini. A true “gentleman driver” and long-time lover of the Gran Turismo automobile, Lamborghini was unsatisfied with every other car on the road. Therefore, he and his successors defied convention, creating the ultimate ride – one that is unlike any other car on the road.

“The MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini is the culmination of the high-performance, design-demanding and perfection-driven ethos that TAG Heuer and Automobili Lamborghini share,” noted Amstutz. “A communication instrument of uncompromised calibre and capabilities, it seriously upgrades the way the world connects.”

The TAG Heuer MERIDIIST Automobili Lamborghini will be available in November at select retailers in watch and jewellery network, and select Automobili Lamborghini retailers.

[Source : LAMBORGHINI]

Subaru Showcases the Ultimate Snow-Ready Performance Car at 2009 SEMA Show

Subaru Impreza WRX STI TRAX

CHERRY HILL, N.J. : November 2, 2009 - The Subaru WRX STI, when equipped with proper tires, is capable of impressive all-weather performance. But when even snow tires are not enough, Subaru offers a solution - a 400-hp WRX STI equipped with a snow tracks system, as showcased at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 3-6.


Starting with a rally-prepared 2009 WRX STI, Subaru Rally Team USA's technical partner, Vermont SportsCar, built the one-off 400-hp TRAX STI envisioned by, and built for, DC Shoes co-founder and SRT USA driver Ken Block. The WRX STI TRAX is ready for the half-pipe, with a Yakima FatCat 4 Snowboard Rack up top, a Yakima Landing Pad rack base and DC Shoes XFB-C Snowboards. Naturally, there is a custom matching sleigh to go with it.

With the exception of the Mattracks rubber track system, the car is rally-prepared and similar in specification Block's #43 SRT USA competition STI. Starting with a stock 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI, Vermont SportsCar stripped the car's interior bare, lightened the shell and then fully seam-welded it for added strength, also installing a multipoint roll cage manufactured from T45 steel. Major differences from the stock STI include the addition of lightweight carbon/Kevlar RECARO SPA ProRacer competition seats with the Head and Neck Restraint System (HANS), carbon fiber door panels and an onboard fire suppression system.

Under the hood, the ultimate Subaru snow machine sports a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled STI engine tuned with a MOTEC M800 ECU. The engine, which kicks out approximately 400 hp and 400 lb.-ft. of torque, is teamed with a KAPS 5-speed close-ratio dog-engagement gearbox and the Subaru programmable DCCD (Driver Controlled Center Differential) all-wheel drive system. Employing custom machined hubs, the drivetrain - which has been dropped three inches - is mated to Mattracks 105M1-A1 rubber track conversion. The car also features Group N competition rally dampers made by EXE-TC.

And Now for Something Completely Different

The WRX STI TRAX can bring four more friends along for the fun with its one-of-a-kind custom sleigh. Constructed with hand-laid fiberglass using sandwich-core construction, the sleigh runs on custom built steel skis with torsion bar suspension. Yakima FatCat 4 snowboard racks carry Qty 2 DC XFB Snowboards.

Protected beneath the padded roll bars are four heated and embroidered leather RECARO Speed seats with Sabelt 4-point harnesses. For music on the slopes, a marine grade water resistant Alpine digital media receiver is coupled with marine grade Kicker speakers and a 10-inch subwoofer. The rear of the sleigh features a large cooler and a grab-bar for towing snowboarders. Cup holders and LED lighting finish off the interior.

The sleigh also features a carbon fiber dashboard, center tunnel cover and rear-cooler cover. Tucked into a glovebox within the carbon fiber covered dashboard are two Viosport POV.1 camera systems. One camera lens is flush-mounted within the dashboard to film passengers, and the other is mounted high on the roll bar to record action around the sleigh.

[Source : SUBARU, Image : NEWSCOM]

Subaru Reveals Ultimate Sport/Track Wagon at SEMA 2009

Subaru Legacy GTk

CHERRY HILL, N.J. : November 2, 2009 - Subaru of America, Inc. is showcasing the Legacy GTk, a concept for a track-ready sport wagon, at the 2009 Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association (SEMA) Show at the Las Vegas Convention Center, Nov. 3-6. A unique design and "added bonus" in the cargo area make the Legacy GTk the perfect car for a family day at the track.


If a turbocharged, lowered, beefed-up Subaru sport wagon sounds like a great car for taking to the track for some autocross action, then wait until you open the rear liftgate. In the generously sized cargo area, you'll find a Coyote Motorsports XP kart (the "k" in GTk), also ready for track duty -- in this case, SCCA Solo autocross. The Subaru Legacy GTk is a car you can drive to the autocross track, and then compete against your kart-driving teenager in a handicapped point system on the same track -- with no trailer necessary.

The one-of-a-kind Legacy GTk, constructed to Subaru's specifications by Specialized Vehicles, Inc. (SVI), probes the outer limits of what a sport wagon can be. The GTk Concept combines the power and presence of a performance-tuned Legacy with the cargo capacity of the all-new 2010 Outback. The cargo area is large enough to haul a complete race kart, which weighs about 160 lbs. with engine and ready to race.

SVI worked with other suppliers to integrate individual sub-systems and components. Developed by JAC Products with input from Subaru, the roof cargo management hardware on the Legacy GTk wagon provides a sleek profile while offering a fully functional cross bar system. The liftgate spoiler, midgate spoiler and blackout-style HID headlights were sourced from the Japanese domestic market (JDM) Legacy. SVI applied its own custom parts, including a front air dam with fog lights; lateral hood vents; custom window tint, and, at the rear, smoked tail lights and a diffuser. The final touch from SVI is a custom black-over-red paint scheme.

Subaru Turbo Boosted to 300 HP

The Legacy GTk powertrain, including the new 6-speed manual transmission, is borrowed from a 2010 Legacy 2.5GT Sedan. With a modified exhaust system and reprogrammed ECU -- but no bolt-on performance parts -- the 2.5-liter turbocharged and intercooled engine produces 300 hp and 350 lb.-ft. of torque, up from the stock model's 265 hp and 258 lb.-ft.

The Legacy GTk draws from the Subaru Performance Tuning (SPT) and STI catalogs. An SPT short-throw shifter with STI shift knob controls the 6-speed. The Continuous version of the Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system uses a viscous coupling locking center differential. The system splits the torque 50:50 and can transfer more power to the wheels with the best traction.

SVI built a custom quad-tipped exhaust system for the Legacy GTk, giving the Subaru Boxer growl a track-inspired tone. Under the hood, the engine compartment is dressed out with braided stainless hoses and brake lines and SPT anodized aluminum parts.

Track-ified Chassis

Bolt-on chassis mods make the Legacy GTk is track-ready, starting up front with an SPT strut tower brace. Suspension is lowered using Bilstein^® struts and suspension calibration, along with STI "pink" springs. A full Brembo^® brake upgrade uses 6-piston monobloc calipers in front with 355 x 32 mm 2-piece floating cross-drilled discs and billet aluminum hats. The rear setup is the same, but with 4-piston calipers. Getting the power to the pavement are BF Goodrich P245/50 R19 Force-KDW 2 tires mounted to HRE custom 19-inch Comp wheels.

Custom Interior and "Garage" are Enviro-friendly

Driving a track car is no cause to forgo comfort, convenience and onboard entertainment. The Legacy GTk interior combines fun and functional. Coming under the "functional" banner is the custom-made "kart friendly" cargo area with rubber decking, tie-down points, and LED lighting. Under the "comfort" column, there is a full custom Ultrasuede^® and leather trimmed interior, including Recaro^® Sportster custom front seats and custom matching rear seats.

The maker of Ultrasuede, Toray, employed its latest EcoDesign™ product to comply with Subaru of America's policy to minimize waste. (The Subaru of Indiana Automotive plant that builds Legacy, Outback and Tribeca models has achieved Zero Landfill status.) The EcoDesign product is made using 100-percent recycled Ultra Microfibers; the base material comes from the manufacturer's post industrial-sourced polyester film.

The Legacy GTk instrument panel and doors feature carbon fiber patterned trim. Custom boost, temperature and oil pressure gauges provide vital engine information, and STI aluminum pedals add a rally car feel. The harman/kardon^® custom surround-sound audio system drives 18 speakers with an 11-channel high efficiency GreenEdge processor/amplifier. Compared to conventional mobile audio systems, harman/kardon GreenEdge components are lighter and consume less power to produce even higher acoustic output levels. The system is controlled by a harman/kardon AM/FM/XM/single-CD head unit with a 7-inch touch-screen display.

The Kart: Fully Functional, Ready to Race

Subaru designed the Legacy GTk as a fully functional vehicle. The idea was to build a car that would facilitate family racing fun. In this case, the GTk also highlights a motorsport that enables a parent to compete against his/her teenager in the same venue -- a rarity in any sport.

Since no trailer would be used, Subaru chose a kart that would not only fit into the cargo area, but would be suitable for a child old enough to ride in the front seat, in compliance with child seating laws. The SCCA Junior Driver kart program offered just that opportunity, its Formula Junior A class specifically intended for the 12-15 age bracket. Built by Coyote Motorsports in Spencerport, N.Y., the XP kart is powered by a Yamaha KT-100 two-stroke engine and can reach up to 50 mph in SCCA Solo racing and up to 120 mph in road racing.

[Source : SUBARU, Image : NEWSCOM]

2010 Cobra Jet Mustang continues the evolution of turnkey race car program

2010 Ford Cobra Jet Mustang

LAS VEGAS : November 3, 2009 – Since its victorious introduction at the NHRA Winternationals in 1968, Ford’s Cobra Jet Mustang has created a legacy of power, performance and triumph.

The 40th Anniversary 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang lived up to the legend of the original, duplicating the NHRA Winternationals victory in 2009 and dominating drag strips across the land.

Today, Ford Racing unveiled the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustang at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, which marks the continued evolution of the CJ as a factory-produced turnkey race car. In honor of the SEMA introduction, Ford Racing built and unveiled a one-of-a-kind “SEMA Special” silver Cobra Jet complete with a charcoal Cobra Jet graphics package.

“The 2008 Cobra Jet was a great car, it did everything we wanted it to do,” said Brian Wolfe, director, Ford North American Motorsports. “We’re really proud of the car, but then again we’re always trying to make the next one better.

“With the 2010 Cobra Jet, we had the luxury of a longer development cycle and the result is absolutely stunning. Where the 2008 Cobra Jet was an extremely potent starting point for NHRA Stock competition, the 2010 will enhance the car further. We are all excited to see the new Cobra Jet in competition.”

For decades, the Mustang has been the preeminent car in many forms of racing, including drag racing. The 2008 Cobra Jet Mustang added to that legacy this season with high- profile wins at the NHRA Winternationals and U.S. Nationals, and by setting numerous track records across the country.

The 2010 Cobra Jet, like its predecessor, is a factory-built race car that is intended for NHRA Stock and Super Stock racing. The goal for the 2010 Cobra Jet was to enhance the race features to further make its own place in NHRA history. The 2010 CJ will come with all of the features of the 2008 car with enhancements that include options for a full race-prepared automatic or manual transmission, drag race-specific shocks and springs, manual steering and brakes, 8.50 certified rollcage, and an Aeromitive return-style fuel system with trunk-mounted fuel cell.

Additionally Ford Racing engineers have developed for the 2010 Cobra Jet a factory-first launch control/rev limiter that will allow drivers to preset the rpm after they stage the car. When they are ready to leave, all they do is put the throttle pedal to the floor; they don’t have the engine speed to free rev. Previously, the launch control/rev limiter was only available as an aftermarket option.

Much like Ford Racing’s previous Mustang FR500S race car, the Cobra Jet Mustang will get its start at the Auto Alliance International (AAI) assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich. The entire 50-car run of 2010 Cobra Jets will be built on the same production line that produces the 2010 Ford Mustang production car. Production of Cobra Jets will commence in January, with delivery of all vehicles expected in the first quarter of 2010.

All of the additional parts and pieces for the CJ can be found in the Ford Performance Parts catalog. And since the Cobra Jet is produced from a base V-6 Mustang, any consumer can turn his Mustang into a Cobra Jet by purchasing the parts from the Ford Performance Parts catalog.

The 2010 CJ car features a choice for customers between two supercharged engines or three normally aspirated engines (pending NHRA approval). These options will allow the Cobra Jet to be eligible for more classes in the NHRA, as well as competition with other sanctioning bodies, including NMRA, NMCA, PSCA and IHRA.

All 50 of the 2010 Cobra Jet Mustangs have already been ordered by Ford dealers for delivery to customers. For those customers who missed out on the limited run of 2010 Cobra Jets, Ford Racing has set a goal to provide future versions of the Cobra Jet.

Images : Ford Cobra Jet Mustang

[Source : FORD]

Camaro Extravaganza: Chevrolet hits The Sema Show with five inspired concepts of the red-hot sports coupe

The Jay Leno Camaro

LAS VEGAS : November 3, 2009 - Chevrolet unveiled five dramatic Camaro concepts at the annual automotive aftermarket extravaganza known as the SEMA Convention, each representing a different vision of style, personalization and performance.


The Camaro concept vehicles include:

• A race-ready, twin-turbocharged V-6 concept built for talk show host and auto enthusiast Jay Leno
  
• The Camaro Synergy concept that reveals a new, limited-production exterior color for spring 2010 and is accented with a number of production accessories and custom touches
  
• The Camaro Chroma, an SS-based concept with a number of future accessories
  
• The Camaro Dusk, which incorporates current and proposed accessories to create a contemporary tuner aesthetic
  
• Camaro Graphics, highlighting six proposed accessory graphics packages, with online voting by the public to gauge interest in potential future production of one or more of the packages.

“During the annual SEMA Convention, the popularity of a new car can be easily judged by the number of ‘tuner’ versions used by various companies to showcase their latest products; and the Camaro is our runaway hit this year, with countless examples displaying everything from mild styling accessories to wild performance modifications,” said Brent Dewar, vice president, Global Chevrolet Brand. “We’re thrilled by all the creative ideas, but especially proud of the cars we developed in-house. They represent modern interpretations of the Camaro that could easily be created by owners using the accessories offered by Chevrolet.”

Many of the Camaro accessories can be ordered through Chevy dealers for installation at the time of the vehicle’s purchase. This allows customers to personalize their cars to their exact wishes, with installation handled by the dealer and the cost rolled into the monthly payments.
In addition to the Camaro contingent, Chevrolet is also showing the Silverado ZR2 concept and an accessorized Corvette Grand Sport at SEMA. Here’s a closer look at each of the concepts:

The Jay Leno Camaro

The Jay Leno Camaro

Powered by a twin-turbocharged version of the 3.6L direct injected V-6 that is standard in Camaro LS and LT models, Leno’s Camaro blends high performance with surprising efficiency in a racing-ready package. A pair of Turbonetics T-3 turbochargers blows through a custom air-to-air intercooler, force-feeding the engine about seven pounds of boost and lifting its horsepower level to about 425. That’s about 40 percent greater than stock and in normal driving (when the turbochargers aren’t making boost), there’s virtually no penalty in fuel economy over the non-turbocharged 3.6L engine.
“Jay’s Camaro offers style, performance and efficiency in a big way,” said Dewar. “It delivers the power of a Camaro SS on demand, but with the fuel economy of a V-6.”

Supporting upgrades for the turbo system include a larger-capacity Be-Kool radiator and a custom exhaust system, as well as a Centerforce-supplied clutch and pressure plate for the six-speed manual transmission. The tubing for the turbo system is powder-coated blue. The powertrain was designed to deliver consistent, controllable power for both the street and race track. In fact, road racing was a primary mission for the car during its development.
Additional vehicle also support its racing intent:

• Brembo six-piston brake package
  
• Pedders coil-over lowering kit
  
• New front fascia with custom fog lamps and integral brake cooling vents
  
• Air extractor-style hood
  

The exterior styling of Leno’s car is the most radical of all the Camaro concepts at SEMA. The front fascia and hood are one-off creations, as are the unique upper and lower grilles and the ground effects package (including a rear diffuser). The heritage-inspired vent styling in front of the rear wheels has been replaced with functional brake cooling ducts.

Chevrolet Camaro Synergy

Camaro Synergy

The Camaro Synergy concept previews a new Synergy Green production exterior color that will be offered on a special-edition Camaro in the first half of 2010. It also features a host of the latest Camaro accessories offered through Chevy dealers. They dramatically enhance the performance appearance of the car, demonstrating the personalization possibilities open to Camaro owners. Designers took liberties with the accessories, creating a totally unique package. Details include:

• 21-inch wheels, with a black center finish and polished rim
  
• Ground effects kit
  
• Cyber Grey Rally hood stripes
  
• High wing rear spoiler (future accessory)
  
• Performance air intake

The ground effects include pronounced rocker moldings, a rear diffuser-type styling piece and a front spoiler. They, along with the rear wing spoiler and rally stripes, are finished in the production Cyber Grey color, although the ground effects and spoiler can be painted to match the exterior of the car. The Rally stripes are adhesive-backed and are offered in grey, black or white. They’re part of a broader range of heritage-inspired graphics that also include “hockey stick” stripes for the front fenders.

Chevy designers further enhanced the concept with a Pedders coil-over lowering kit and a set of large, Brembo brakes, as well as color-coordinating the Jet Black interior with Synergy Green accent stitching, piping and other accents. The lowering kit, brakes and interior accents are not among the accessories offered for the Camaro, but represent common and popular aftermarket upgrades. Chevrolet will gauge public interest in the features for possible inclusion in future accessory offerings.

Chevrolet Camaro Chroma

Camaro Chroma

It looks like the custom creation of a tuner shop, but the Camaro Chroma simply demonstrates how carefully selected accessories available through Chevy dealers can create a look like nothing else. The Camaro Chroma is based on an SS/RS model in Summit White and uses a combination of current and not-yet-released components, including:

• A new silver stripe package
  
• 21-inch wheels (future product, with silver-painted spoke centers and a Victory Red stripe)
  
• “Blade” rear spoiler (future product)
  
• Summit White ground effects package
  
• Rear fender vent graphics
  
• Accessory front grille with body-color outer frame (future accessory)

“With its silver graphics on the Summit White paint, this car has a tailored, tone-on-tone appearance that is simultaneously racy and subdued,” said Todd Parker, design manager, GM Accessory Studio. “It is a sophisticated-looking car that is easily duplicated by any customer, because all of the parts are available to build it.”

From a performance standpoint, the Camaro Chroma’s standard LS3 V-8 engine is equipped with current accessories, including a performance intake, shorty headers and performance exhaust system. There’s also a Victory Red engine cover and a Hurst short-throw shifter for the six-speed manual transmission, as well as red-painted Brembo brake calipers.

Inside, the black-and-grey leather seats feature red accent stitching, as do the shifter boot, floor mats and door trim. Accessory inserts for the dashboard and door panels (in silver) are also included as available accessories.

“What’s great about the Camaro Chroma is it speaks to the almost unlimited possibilities that the accessories offer,” said Parker. “You can build your Camaro mild or wild, but build it your way.”

Chevrolet Camaro Dusk

Camaro Dusk

Inspired by the style of young, urban professionals, the Camaro Dusk concept rolls with a contemporary tuner aesthetic. It is understatedly aggressive looking, with a lowered ride height, new 21-inch wheels, the rear spoiler from an SS model and a custom ground effects package.
“This is a car with an international flair, bringing the Camaro to a place it hasn’t traditionally been,” said Parker. “It is a very tailored look that is stylish and sophisticated, but with a distinct American accent.”

The ground effects package includes a racing-inspired front splitter, rocker extensions and a rear diffuser. They are prototype parts that may enter production as dealer-available accessories at a later date; the same goes for the 21-inch wheels from BBS. Many of the details, such as the taillamp and fog lamp bezels, match the finish of the wheels, lending a more premium look to the car.

The Camaro Dusk’s body is painted Berlin Blue, while the ground effects are painted a contrasting color. Additional performance items include the exhaust system and Brembo brakes from a Camaro SS (with painted calipers). The interior is trimmed in stylish Jet Black and Sedona, with complementing features including footwell lighting, premium door sill plates and other details.

Today’s young professionals expect advanced technology and premium audio options and this concept delivers with a crisp, well-tuned Boston Acoustics sound system, WiFi connectivity and a convenient cradle for an iPhone.

Camaro Graphics

Camaro designers dreamed up half a dozen proposals for accessory graphics packages, with the intent of soliciting feedback from Camaro enthusiasts for possible production. Chevrolet then launched the graphics campaign in mid-October, asking Camaro fans on Facebook to pick their favorite design.

The top four designs were produced and brought to the SEMA Convention, where a Silver Ice Metallic Camaro will wear each contender on a different day. At the conclusion of the convention, after thousands of enthusiasts see the graphics on the car in person and on Facebook, another round of voting will occur. The top vote-getter will be considered for future production.

“Camaro has thousands of fans on the various social media sites and this is a great way to demonstrate that Chevrolet is connected to our customers,” said Dewar. “With so many great designs to choose from, we’re sure the voting will be close, but whatever the outcome, the real winners will be the customers who personalize their Camaro with the winning graphics package.”

The Camaro Graphics display vehicle will be located prominently in the GM display during the SEMA Convention, starting on Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2009. At the close of the convention each day, the graphics package will be changed.
All of the proposed graphics packages can be viewed and voted on by logging onto Camaro’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/chevycamaro.

Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 concept

Silverado ZR2 concept

At a glance, it’s clear the Silverado ZR2 concept wasn’t designed to haul flowers back from the nursery. With its widened body, tall stance and powerful LS supercharged engine, it is ready to hit the berms, dry washes and gullies of the Baja Peninsula.

The Silverado ZR2 is based on an extended cab/short box body. The custom bodywork includes carbon fiber fender flares that stretch outward to cover the 35-inch-tall Goodyear Wrangler off-road tires and widened stance. Much of the truck’s body is made of carbon fiber, including the front fenders, extractor-style hood, rocker extensions and tailgate, which features large, debossed CHEVROLET lettering as a nod to Chevy trucks of the past.

The pickup box, which is protected with a spray-on liner, features a unique locking storage system mounted to the extruded aluminum Cargo Management System rails from Chevy Accessories.

Many of the carbon fiber parts, including the hood, are clear-coated, rather than painted, to show off the intricate weave pattern of the high-tech, lightweight material. The parts that aren’t clear carbon fiber are painted Dune Metallic, a color that blends with the desert terrain. A large, more prominent grille is also part of the package and is a vision of what designers would like to see in a production or accessory part. It is very functional, feeding cool air to the 550-horsepower LS supercharged crate engine from GM Performance Parts.

The combination of 20-inch BBS RD wheels – reminiscent of historic Chevy truck wheel – and aggressive Goodyear Wrangler MT/R tires connect to the chassis via BDS shocks and a four-inch lift kit to help negotiate those desert trails. The new front fascia dramatically improves approach angle and skid plates protect the chassis.

The interior features more carbon fiber details on the dash, along with black leather and suede-trimmed seats with contrasting stitching to those trail runs more comfortable.
“There’s more to this concept than meets the eye,” said Dewar. “Some of the components are being explored for possible inclusion in upcoming models.”

Accessorized Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport - Heritage Package

Accessorized Corvette Grand Sport with Heritage Package

Earlier this year, Chevrolet announced the return of the Corvette Grand Sport model. It’s a track-oriented Corvette with wider wheels and tires, special suspension tuning and unique exterior details. The Corvette Grand Sport achieves a 0-60 time of less than four seconds, pulls 1.0 g on the skid pad and still boasts an EPA-rated highway fuel economy 26 mpg.

The version displayed at SEMA introduces a host of Grand Sport accessories that will be offered in 2010. It is a standard Grand Sport convertible equipped with the Heritage Package, but in a new Cyber Grey exterior color, with forthcoming accessories that include:

• Mesh inserts for the front fender vents
  
• ZR1-style front splitter and rear spoiler (painted satin black)
  
• ZR1-style rocker extensions and wheel spats (painted satin black)
  
• Body-color door handles and license plate frame
  
• Tinted dark chrome fender badges
  
• “Tech” pattern engine cover with red lettering inserts
  
• Grand Sport-logo hood blanket
  
• Grand Sport-logo floor mats and leather console cover
  
• Red stitched shifter knob/boot and red parking brake boot
  
• “Tech” pattern interior trim kit
  
• PAL iPod connector
  
• Convertible wind screen
  
• Racing-style pedal covers
  
• Interior storage pouches

The Grand Sport accessories are expected to go on sale in early 2010. They’re available through any Chevrolet or other authorized GM dealer.

Images : 2009 SEMA - Chevrolet

[Source : GM-CHEVROLET]