Thursday, January 20, 2011

Nissan Skyline GTR Top Sport Cars

The Nissan GT-R Spec V is the first factory special edition to come from Nissan Japan. While the GT-R Spec V does not add a whole lot performance-wise to standard GT-R cars, its powerful styling enhancements, weight savings and trick high gear boost controller should ensure every unit will be snapped up by the Nissan devout in Japan.

Nissan GT-R Spec V Performance


Introduced at the Tokyo Auto Salon, the 2010 GT-R Spec V carries the same engine as other GT-R cars, though a boost controller is added which provides additional torque in high gear to pass that imported Corvette ZR1 on the highway, or the Nurburgring. Operated via a button on the dash, the extra boost engages for 80 seconds, then disengages on its own, presumably to save load on the engine.


Other Spec V performance extras include a high-flow titanium exhaust, adjustable more-aggressive Bilstein shocks and carbon-ceramic composite Brembo brakes front and rear. Did Nissan opt out of universally raising boost or engine tuning to aid maximum power output in order to make way for an even-more-aggressive GT-R variant? We hope so.


Nissan GT-R Interior and Exterior


A quick glance over the 2010 GT-R Spec V interior reveals the most obvious change here: no rear seat. Left behind are some rather strange looking luggage compartments, though the base GT-R's rear seat is not so useful anyway, and weight savings will be appreciated.


Outside the Spec V gets carbon fiber and titanium everything: a new rear spoiler that is sure to please Spec V clientele, a tricky carbon front grill and brake ducts, skirts and some beautiful Rays wheels also available from the NISMO performance shop for other GT-R models.


The price for all this Spec-V jazz? An astounding 15,750,000 yen, which works out to a hair over US $170,000 or almost $100,000 more than the current GT-R at current exchange rates. Don't expect the 2010 Nissan GT-R Spec V in the states, or anywhere else outside Japan, at least not yet. Stay tuned for more details as they arise!


NISSAN ANNOUNCES NEW GT-R SPECV MODEL


TOKYO –
Nissan Motor Co., Ltd today announced a new limited-production Nissan GT-R SpecV model, which goes on sale at seven specially selected Nissan dealers throughout Japan on February 2, 2009.  The GT-R SpecV is targeted specifically at enthusiast drivers who desire race car-level performance in a street-legal vehicle.

Developed around the multi-dimensional Nissan GT-R sports car, which was introduced just more than one year ago to universal global acclaim, the new SpecV model builds on the original’s “ultimate super car that anyone can enjoy driving anywhere, at anytime” philosophy – taking it to an entirely new level of “oneness between man and machine.”  The SpecV model includes unique body, interior and performance equipment and modifications, raising the GT-R’s unmatched performance to even higher levels.


The GT-R Spec V new exterior features include a carbon fibre rear spoiler, a carbon fibre grille, and carbon fibre brake ducts.  The SpecV is available exclusively in Ultimate Black Opal (RP) body colour.  Inside, the Spec V unique two-seat interior (non-SpecV GT-R models also include a two-place rear seat) offers special Recaro carbon fibre bucket seats, while carbon fibre insets embellish the rear center storage box, instrument panel and other trim areas.


Performance is enhanced with a new high gear boost control device, which momentarily increases boost of the engine’s twin turbochargers for greater torque in the intermediate-to-high speed ranges to provide a more powerful feeling of acceleration, while also allowing the engine to operate at a lower speed for improved fuel economy.  Other modifications include a titanium-coated exhaust system and carbon-ceramic brakes that provide powerful stopping performance.


The GT-R SpecV is also equipped with lightweight, racing-style forged aluminum wheels that were developed for this model and have been sold by Nissan Motorsports International (NISMO) since September 2008.   The lighter unsprung weight provided by the new wheels, together with the enhanced braking capability, an exclusive suspension and high-grip tyres, combine to deliver the Spec V exceptional performance.


The SpecV will be sold at the following seven dealer outlets, each of which is staffed by mechanics with special GT-R SpecV training and who are knowledgeable of racing circuit driving. 
Model Lineup
Now in its third year of availability in the North American market, the Nissan GT-R enters the 2011 model year with a number of enhancements and a simplified model lineup. The previous GT-R base model has been eliminated, leaving the GT-R Premium as the only available 2011 model. The 2011 GT-R will be available through nearly 700 official “GT-R certified” Nissan dealers across the United States beginning in March 2010.

“As difficult as it is to improve on perfection, we’ve added a few important features to GT-R for 2011 – improving ride comfort, enhancing the navigation system features and adding auto on/off headlights,” said Al Castigation, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “One thing that remains unchanged is GT-R legendary performance, including its 485-horsepower 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 and 6-speed dual-clutch transmission.”

Enhancements for 2011 include slightly darker wheel center caps, double clear coat on the front and rear fascias and the addition of rear cooling ducts to improve cooling performance around the rear floor area. The suspension has been retuned and the rear bushing strengthened to enhance ride comfort while still maintaining the GT-R’s outstanding handling. In addition, auto on/off headlights and speed-sensitive windshield wipers are now standard, along with a USB iPod® interface, Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® and DVD playback. The navigation system now includes XM NavTraffic® and NavWeather™ capability, along with premium points-of-interest (POI) information.

  Super car Packaging and Driveline
The Nissan GT-R is a multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of “the ultimate super car that can be driven by anyone, anytime, anywhere.” It is built on an exclusive Premium Midship platform created expressly for use with the GT-R.

The Premium Midship platform enables the use of a world’s first independent rear transaxle ATTESA E-TS all-wheel drive system, which optimizes weight distribution and handling capability. This layout places the transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle, without the use of traditional torque tubes, allowing the suspension to operate independently and optimizing tire grip at each corner.

Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an advanced VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 producing 485 horsepower at 6,400 rpm and 434 lb-ft of torque at 3,200, while meeting ultra-low emission vehicle (ULEV) standards. The engine features innovative plasma-sprayed bores replacing cast iron liners for reduced friction, lighter weight, enhanced cooling, power output and fuel efficiency; a symmetrical independent intake and exhaust manifold system featuring twin high-performance IHI turbochargers; a secondary air management system for improved cold-start emissions performance; a thermostatically controlled oil-cooling system; an oil scavenger pump to maintain oil flowing to the turbochargers; and a lateral wet and dry sump oiling system. All GT-R engines are hand-assembled in a clean room environment at the Nissan Yokohama engine plant.

The VR38DETT is backed by an advanced paddle-shifted sequential 6-speed dual clutch transmission, which can be driver selected to shift at race car-like speeds. The sequential-shifting transaxle features separate wet clutches for the odd (1,3,5) and even (2,4,6) gears and pre-selects the next highest and next lowest gear for immediate shifts. It also features Hill Start Assist for easy starts on uphill inclines.

Contributing to overall vehicle balance and low center of gravity, the unique offset input and reaction shaft design of the rear transaxle enables a shorter design profile versus a typical manual transmission, moving the concentration of powertrain weight lower in the vehicle.

Putting the power to the ground is an electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system specifically developed for GT-R. The rear drive-biased system can vary torque split from 0:100 to 50:50 depending on speed, lateral acceleration, steering angles, tire slip, road surface and yaw rate. Of note is a special GT-R-specific yaw-rate feedback control, which measures the differences between the target yaw rate calculated from steering angle and actual yaw rate detected by the yaw-rate sensor and G sensor to adjust torque bias.

GT-R’s handling duties are managed by a sophisticated 4-wheel independent suspension system mounted to high-precision six-point front and rear subframes. A special Bilstein DampTronic driver adjustable shock absorber system utilizes multiple vehicle information systems to provide appropriate damping forces and high level of control for a variety of driving situations. The DampTronic system features three driver selectable settings - Normal; Comfort, for maximum suspension compliance; or “R,” for ultimate handling. The same three-stage adjustability is available for the VDC system and transmission shift operation, which also includes a Snow mode. For 2011, the suspension has been retuned and the rear bushings strengthened for enhanced ride comfort while still maintaining handling.

Stopping power is provided by Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers with large 15-inch Brembo full-floating cross-drilled two-piece rotors and low-steel high-stiffness brake pads that minimize fade and provide intense stopping performance. The calipers utilize race car-style radial mounting to minimize caliper flex during extreme braking.

GT-R-specific lightweight forged 20-inch wheels, with special knurling to assist with securing the tires during hard acceleration or braking, are shod with nitrogen-filled Bridgestone high-performance summer run-flat tires specifically designed for the GT-R, sized 255/40ZRF20 front and 285/35ZRF20 rear. Optional Dunlop SP Sport 600 – 255ZRF40/20 front, P285ZRF35/20 rear performance summer tires are available with the Ultra High Performance Summer Tire Package.

GT-R’s Signature Functional Design – High Performance Aerodynamics and Style The Nissan GT-R’s dramatic styling remains unchanged for 2011, again following the “function over form” theory. Every styling aspect, from the overall design to the smallest details, is created to maximize the vehicle’s driving experience – as well as suggest GT-R’s “super car” level of performance. Utilizing advanced aerodynamics, GT-R’s aggressive styling evokes the lines of a well-trained athlete, combining strong character lines with smooth and solid areas.

The GT-R’s hybrid body construction is created with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and die-cast aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness, precision and lightness.

The body features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27 while achieving high front and rear downforce, providing stability and handling performance in a wide range of driving conditions.

GT-R’s front fenders express power and stability, while the “aero-blades” on the fenders’ leading edges provide optimum airflow around the tires and along the body. The vents in the fenders’ trailing edges assists in providing front downforce and optimizing side air flow. The aggressive front end, with a large hood bulge and single central air intake, provides a sophisticated style as well as undisturbed airflow for power and cooling. The “super wide beam” headlights feature three additional sub-reflectors (compared to conventional lights) to give a wide illumination spread. An auto on/off feature has been added for 2011, along with standard speed-sensitive windshield wipers.

The Nissan GT-R’s four-passenger cabin features a sloping “aero blade canopy” roofline and curved C-pillar “sword edge,” which expresses the distinctive GT-R identity, as well as facilitating air flow around the rear of the vehicle. The signature rear view of the GT-R is provided by its hallmark four-ring taillights, while air flow above and below the vehicle is managed by the functional rear carbon fiber underbody diffuser, rear spoiler and large, integrated quad exhaust tips.

GT-R’s advanced technology is present even in the vehicle’s paint, which utilizes a durable anti-chip paint and “double clear coat” process. Five exterior colors are offered for 2011, including a special seven-coat Super Silver paint color treatment includes a polished front bumper. The Super Silver paint is baked five times and is hand-polished by craftsman. Front and rear fascias receive double clear coat for 2011.

An Interior Suitable for Daily Driving or Super car Duties
Key to the Nissan GT-R’s usability as both a daily driver and a high-performance machine is its interior, which is designed to balance functionality and comfort. It provides comfortable four-passenger seating and trunk capacity of two golf bags or suitcases.

Sculpted performance bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience, and soft pads are utilized on the dash in front of the passenger and both doors to give an extra level of comfort. The rear transaxle layout of GT-R, with a flat floor and narrow center tunnel, allows GT-R to have an optimal driving position.

A cockpit-style instrument panel surrounds the driver, with all meters and multi-function meter at a uniform height to minimize the driver’s head movement. A large center-mounted tachometer, with gear display on its upper right, as well as the easy-to-read graphics of the display, gives the driver instant detailed information, essential for the performance nature of the GT-R.

Functional style is also evident in GT-R’s interior – each meter features a dial plate design that evokes the idea of engaged gears, as well as a three-dimensional metal-like ring, suggesting the multi-dimensional performance of GT-R. A large, metallic-framed center console features an ergonomically designed shift lever and a red “engine start” button.

The centerpiece of the instrument panel is a video game-inspired multi-function display. Eleven pages of information are available on this system, including mechanical and driving information, acceleration, brake pedal pressure, steering angle and a recording function with playback. Additional on-screen information includes a Navigation system, an entertainment system with a Music Box Hard Drive and DVD playback capability and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System. For 2011 the navigation system receives XM NavTraffic® with Real-Time Traffic Information and NavWeather™ capabilities.

All 2011 GT-R models include a specially designed 11-speaker Bose® audio system features two forward-facing woofers in the rear center armrest area. Rigid aluminum die cast panel-mounting of all speakers allowed Bose® engineers to perfect the acoustical performance of the GT-R sound system. Streaming Audio via Bluetooth® has been added for 2011.

The Nissan GT-R offers a long list of safety features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stoplights, bright LED rear combination taillights, “super wide beam” headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade windshield wipers.

Standard safety equipment includes a Nissan Advanced Air Bag System for driver and front passenger, front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags for driver and front-passenger and standard roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front seat occupant head protection – along with front seat belts with pretentiousness and load limiters and tension reducers, and three-point ELR/ALR rear seat belts.

GT-R Dealer Certification
The Nissan GT-R is sold and serviced through nearly 7000 Nissan dealers that have attained “GT-R Certification” status by meeting a number of strict sales, service and facilities commitments – including dedicating a master technician to GT-R service, special training for service managers and technicians, and designating dealer principals, executive managers and general managers as the primary communicators and negotiators in sales transactions. The names and locations of local GT-R Certified Nissan dealers are available to consumers on Nissan USA.com.

Models and Options
The 2011 Nissan GT-R is available in one model: GT-R Premium, which comes fully equipped with a 485-horsepower engine, dual clutch rear transmission, Nissan Navigation System, custom-designed 11-speaker Bose® audio system, premium near-black finish wheels, Bridgestone RE070A tires and heated front seats.

Three options are offered – a Cold Weather Package, which includes Dunlop all-season tires and unique coolant/water ratio, special Super-Silver paint and the Ultra-High Performance Tire Package.
 
The 2009 Nissan GT-R, the first Skyline GT-R model to be released in the United States, offers performance unlike any Nissan sports car in the history of the Japanese automaker. The "Skyline" moniker has officially been dropped, but the 2009 GT-R, which was delivered to its first US customers in July 2008, represents a new era for the Skyline GT-R, the most storied sports car in Japanese automotive history.
With exterior styling that is a departure from Nissan Skyline GT-R models of the past 20 years, the 2009 Nissan GT-R places performance function on the level with styling. Classic Skyline GT-R touches are found in the taillights and rear end, as well as in the flared rear fenders embracing 20 x 10.5 in. rear wheels.
No stock Skyline GT-R model in Nissan's history can touch the performance ability of the brand-new 2009 model. The Skyline, like other critical darling sports cars such as the BMW 3-Series, has always been about outputting greater performance than spec sheets and dyno numbers would indicate. The 2009 GT-R offers some of the most sophisticated electronic engine and drivetrain management found on any sports car in the world.
Offering a stellar bang-for-the-buck ratio with a base price a hair under $70,000, the 2009 Nissan GT-R is already commanding significant price gouging over MSRP. All the official details appear below, direct from Nissan...
Official 2009 Skyline GT-R press release from Nissan...


Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the launch of the Nissan GT-R, a new multi-dimensional performance machine that lives up to the concept of "an ultimate super car for anyone, anywhere, at anytime". The Nissan GT-R features a newly developed Premium Midship package, including the world's first independent transaxle 4WD developed independently by Nissan. The Nissan GT-R will be available in Japan mainly through Nissan High Performance Centers nationwide from December 6th.
The Nissan GT-R was developed with a new understanding and appreciation of the Earth's natural forces - gravity, inertial force and aerodynamics - and translates those forces into a completely new design, maximizing tire grip and airflow.
Basic vehicle dynamics and integration with the driver have also been examined, resulting in new complementary and creating a Human-Machine Interface (HMI) never seen before in the marketplace. All of these theories have been integrated to balance "speed and efficiency," "high-output with environmental consideration" and "high performance and safety."
Taking these factors into account, Nissan created the all-new Nissan GT-R, which offers advanced high performance for secure and enjoyable driving by minimizing the effects of climatic, road condition or driving technique limitations. The Nissan GT-R offers ultimate performance for virtually every driving situation - whether it be the Nurburgring circuit, to snow, rain or urban areas - all manageable by the GT-R driver through advanced technology and driving dynamics.
The Nissan GT-R's unique characteristics are instilled not just in the vehicle's design, but also through a specialized production process. Carbon fiber, aluminum and steel components are assembled with a special high-precision process, which includes a series of vibration tests. Engines and transmissions are assembled by a single craftsman in a "clean room" environment and upon completion, every GT-R undergoes a battery of comprehensive tests to ensure the proper operation of all vehicle components.
To properly support the all-new GT-R, Nissan has established special Nissan High Performance Centers, where all certified advisers and technicians have received extensive training. Total support for the GT-R owner is offered for the first three years of ownership, including measurement and adjustment of the engine, transmission and wheel alignment after the first 1000 km, and again every 12 months, free of charge.
Packaging and Driveline Suited for a Super car
The all-new Nissan GT-R uses a Premium Midship package, an all-new, more advanced version Front Midship (FM) package utilized on other Nissan vehicles. This new package enables the use of the world's first application of an independent transaxle 4WD system. The trans axle's layout places the dual-clutch transmission, transfer case and final drive at the rear of the vehicle (instead of the usual front location), which enables vehicle weight to be evenly distributed throughout the car. This gives the Nissan GT-R a superb front-to-rear weight balance, while enhancing leg and foot space and allowing for an optimal pedal layout.
Under the hood, the Nissan GT-R features an all-new 3.8-litre twin turbo V6 "VR38" engine, featuring plasma-sprayed bores and a special twin-turbo exhaust manifold system. A secondary air management system enables the newly designed powerplant to provide approximately 40kg/m of torque during ordinary low-rev driving, which gives an optimum air-fuel ratio for around-town efficiency and helps the Nissan GT-R meet ultra-low emission vehicle (U-LEV) standards in Japan.
The Nissan GT-R's new engine produces 480PS (353kW) at 6400rpm and maximum torque of 60kgm (588Nm) from 3200 to 5200rpm. Putting the power to the ground is an all-new GR6-type dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifting and a Borg Warner six-plate dual clutch for direct control.
Suspension duties are handled through a special Bilstein DampTronic*1 system, which utilizes all pertinent vehicle information to provide appropriate damping forces for all situations and helps maintain a high level of control for straight-line driving, cornering, and braking.
Braking is essential for a daily-driven super car and the GT-R features large Brembo full-floating drilled rotors, low steel high stiffness brake pads and Brembo mono block six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers, which in combination minimize fade and provide stable braking. Run-flat tires, exclusively designed for use on the Nissan GT-R, balance high grip and all-weather capabilities and a comfortable ride in all driving situations. The tires are designed to maintain structure for 80km of travel at 80 km/h, while still providing an acceptable level of performance.
High-Performance Safety and Environmental Technologies
The Nissan GT-R offers a long list of safety and environmental features, including, for enhanced visibility inside and out of the vehicle, high-mounted LED stop lamps, bright LED rear combination taillights, "super wide beam" headlights, heated door mirrors and flat-blade wipers.
Standard safety equipment includes a pop-up engine hood system for enhanced pedestrian safety, driver and front passenger SRS Air Bag System, ELR front seat belts with tension reducer, front seat belts with load limiter, and three-point ELR rear seat belts. Driver and front passenger SRS Side Air Bag System and SRS Curtain Air Bag System are offered as options.
Environmental technologies include extensive work to create an U-LEV certification in Japan for the 3.8-liter twin turbo engine and reduced levels of volatile organic compound for materials used in the car.
Functional Design - High Performance Aerodynamics and Style
The Nissan GT-R's styling follows the function over form theory. Every styling aspect, from the overall design to the smallest details, is created to maximize the vehicle's driving experience - as well as suggesting GT-R's "super car" level of performance. Utilizing advanced aerodynamics, the Nissan GT-R's aggressive styling evokes the lines of a well-trained athlete, combining strong character lines with smooth and solid areas.
The all-new GT-R's body is created with a combination of steel, carbon fiber and aluminum, providing a unique combination of stiffness and lightness. The Nissan GT-R features a low coefficient of drag of 0.27, with high front and rear downforce, which provides the GT-R with enhanced grip in all weather situations, while also enhancing fuel efficiency.
The front fenders express power and stability, while the "aero-blades" on the fenders' leading edges provide optimum airflow around the tires and along the body. The scoop in the fenders' trailing edges assists in providing front downforce and optimization of side airflow. The aggressive front end, with a large hood budge and single air intake, provides a sophisticated style as well as undisturbed airflow for power and cooling. New "super wide beam" headlights feature three additional sub-reflectors (compared to conventional lights) to give a wider spread to the illumination area.
The Nissan GT-R's large, four-passenger cabin features a sloping "aero blade canopy" roofline and curved C-pillar "sword edge," which expresses the distinctive GT-R identity, as well as facilitating air flow around the rear of the vehicle. The GT-R's hallmark four-ring taillights, efficient rear spoiler and large, integrated f120 exhaust tips, provides the signature rear view of the GT-R, as well as optimizing airflow along the top and under the vehicle.
The high level of advanced technology is evident even in the Nissan GT-R's paint - which utilizes a "double clear coat" and "anti-chipping" process. The Nissan GT-R features Ultimate Silver as a special new color, which is painstakingly hand-polished by craftsman.
An Interior Suitable for Daily Driving or Super car Duties
Key to the Nissan GT-R's usability as a both daily driver and a high-performance super car is its interior, which is designed to balance functionality, a sense of ease, and comfort.
Sculpted performance bucket seats give the driver and passenger a comfortable driving experience, and soft pads are utilized on the dash in front of the passenger and doors to give an extra level of comfort and safety.
The instrument panel surrounds the driver, with all meters and multi-function meter at a uniform height to minimize the driver's head movement when traveling at high speeds. A large center-mounted tachometer, with gear display on its upper right, as well as the easy-to-read graphics of the display, gives the driver instant detailed information, essential for the performance nature of the GT-R.
Functional style is also evident in the Nissan GT-R - each meter features a dial plate design that evokes the idea of engaged gears, as well as a three-dimensional metal-like ring, suggesting the multi-dimensional performance of the GT-R. A large, metallic-framed center console features the ergonomically designed shift lever and a red "engine start" button.
Adjustability is central to the daily-driver nature of the Nissan GT-R, with a special "set-up switch" located in the center of the instrument panel. This switch enables the driver to adjust transmission shifts, shock absorbers and the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC-R) in three settings - Normal, Comfort or R, the high-performance setting designed for the Nissan GT-R "super car" application.
A high-speed, high-capacity CAR WINGS (Japan market) navigation system, with a powerful 30GB hard disk drive, features an easy-to-use touch pad, as well as traditional navigation switches. The screen interface features not only the navigation system, but also an enriched entertainment system with a Music Box hard drive, DVD and CD player, and Bluetooth® *2 audio function.
For special use in the GT-R application, the multi-function meter also includes mechanical and driving information for safe high performance driving, including acceleration opening, brake pedal pressure, and steering angle. It also includes an "optimal gearshift map," to emphasize economical vehicle operation.
A specially designed BOSE sound system includes two forward-facing woofers in the rear center armrest area combined with traditional door speakers. All speakers are mounted in rigid aluminum die cast panels, which combined with the design of the system itself, provide sound quality suitable for a super car.
Nissan Skyline GTR Picture
Nissan Skyline GTR image  

2011 Nissan Skyline GT-R Sports cars Review

Nissan Skyline GT-R Sports cars
2011 Nissan Skyline GT-R Sports cars
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Nissan Skyline Car Gallery
2011 Nissan GT-R Super car

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Latest 2011 Audi Sports Car Features

The Swiss tuner Sportec has taken the compact Audi S3 under its wing - which in its standard version already is a quite agile machine. The engine, exhaust and chassis components newly tuned by Sportec make the Audi a bit faster (165 mph top speed) while the gained performance excites the appetite to literally devour the tarmac during spontaneous bursts of speed.

The 2.0 L TFSI engine - already ex works a quite powerful one - produces in its standard version 265 bhp and a torque of 256 lb-ft. Thanks to its turbo technology, the powertrain offers the ideal possibilities to elicit a steady performance peak from the S3 by means of software modifications. Thus, after having been remodeled by Sportec, the Audi S3 comes up with such remarkable values as 300 bhp and 303 lb-ft, catapulting the S3 to 165 mph. With respect to the sprint from 0 to 60 mph, Sportec-modified S3 needs only 4.9 seconds - about a second faster than its series brother.

Take a look at these figures, and you get an idea of why, to any enthusiastic driver, a trip to the renowned Swiss tuner Sportec is equal to a pilgrimage. Costing 1400 Euros, assembly included, this performance boost is still affordable while the optional all-inclusive warranty guarantees the necessary security for everyday use.

The fact that, apart from such sporty genes, environmental awareness and increasing fuel prices were far from being neglected will rejoice the critics - as a matter of fact, the Sportec Audi S3 consumes about the same amount of fuel as the standard version. The marvelous sound is provided by the Sportec stainless steel exhaust system extending from the catalyst. In order to assure that such powers find their way safely to the tarmac, Sportec offers the exclusive 8.5 x 18 and 8.5 x 19 inch aluminum wheels Mono 10 with 225/40 ZR18 or 235/35 ZR19 Pneus. For an extra charge of 4900 Euros, the Sportec sport brake system's luxuriant discs will rotate beneath. Uncompromisingly sporty driving characteristics as well as lesser sidewise inclination are assured by the optional coil-over suspension or by the spring set. This will not only improve the dynamics during high speed cornering, but also the visual dynamics.

The finishing touch is added by the aluminum pedals and footrest and the optional Alcantara interior equipment. To ensure that the gears will slide with Swiss precision into their place, Sportec offers a short throw shifter, assembly included - the cherry on top. 
Dynamism, sportiness and sophistication - the Audi A3 holds an outstanding position in the premium compact class. Now its top-of-the-range version is ready to go, the new Audi S3 boasting 265 bhp and quattro permanent four-wheel drive. With its sparkling performance it pursues the ideal of pure driving pleasure coupled simultaneously with excellent everyday practicality - like all Audi S models.

The S3 redefines the standards of its class - at the level of a sports car. The sprint to 60 mph is accomplished in 5.5 seconds, and acceleration is only halted on reaching 155 mph. Aggressively hard-hitting, free-revving and with a sonorous acoustic profile, the powerful two-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder unit with FSI petrol direct injection proves to be a smooth, high-performance engine.

This power is transmitted by the six-speed gearbox and quattro permanent four-wheel drive to large alloy wheels with an 18-inch diameter. The new S sports suspension system on the S3 enables an extremely sporty driving style combined with the ultimate in comfort. This sporty compact model responds actively to steering movements, exhibits precise and safe handling characteristics and, thanks to quattro technology, enables maximum acceleration out of bends.

The dynamic potential of this three-door sports car is obvious at first glance. The single-frame grille sports chrome trim, the front skirt has a spoiler with large air-intakes and the side sills have been restyled. There is a contrasting platinum Grey diffuser built into the rear skirt, along with two S-style oval chrome tailpipes. Aluminium-look door mirrors and a body-colour roof spoiler give added impact to the visual statement.

Sporty Atmosphere in the Interior

The interior conveys an atmosphere of sportiness, with materials of the highest quality and painstaking craftsmanship. The elements that dominate the styling are the sports seats with prominent side sections, the black headlining, also available in silver, and the instrument cluster with its special dials and needles.

The pedals, gear knob and air vents are in aluminum look, the inlays are in Piano finish black, or alternatively aluminum or fine grain birch wood Grey. The red and silver S3 emblem is to be found on the leather sports steering wheel, in the instrument cluster, on the gear knob and on the door sill trims. The seats are upholstered in a combination of cloth and leather or, as an option, in alcantara/leather or completely in leather. The two-tone leather seats are decorated with stitching in the same color as their center section.

TFSI Engine

The power plant of the S3 delivers all that is expected of a powerful sports engine, and does it supremely well. The 2.0 TFSI, which combines direct injection and turbocharger technology, delivers 265 bhp at 6,000 rpm. And at just 2,500 rpm it already musters up an impressive 258 lb-ft of torque - this pulling power remains constant up to 5,000 rpm.

Compared with the A3, this engine is an advanced version which has undergone fundamental changes. The new turbocharger with its enlarged turbine and compressor rotor generates 1.2 bar of boost pressure - an unusually high figure. A modified intercooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air, thus increasing the air mass necessary for combustion.

Handling: Lightning-Fast Reactions

In terms of handling, the Audi S3 exhibits all the qualities of a high-performance sports car; it responds immediately to steering movements and achieves high cornering speeds. The innately sophisticated suspension of the A3 - with subframes front and rear, triangulated lower wishbones at the front and four-link suspension at the rear - has been further refined.

Springs and shock absorbers are stiffer, and the body sits 1 inch lower than an A3 with standard suspension. Aluminum pivot bearings and wishbones reduce the weight of the front suspension. Stiffer suspension mounts and a sportier characteristic for the electro-mechanical steering convey even greater dynamism and precision. 18-inch alloy wheels and 225/40 tires ensure firm adhesion to the road surface. A 17-inch brake system with sports brake pads ensure maximum deceleration; the black painted calipers bear S3 emblems. 
 
Modified Audi ABT S3-4

Modified Audi ABT S3-4
 Side Air Bags, Immobilisers, Alarm, Climate Control, Heated Seats, Electric Windows, Adjustable Steering Column, Head Restraints, Metallic Paintwork, Tinted Screen (std), Alloy wheels, Audi S3 2.0 T FSI quattro S Tronic 265 PS finished in Brilliant Red metallic with black leather interior Specification includes Driver Information System, 18In Alloy Wheels, Power-Assisted Steering, Electric/Heated Door Mirrors, Front Fog lights, Headlamp Wash, Steering Wheel Heated, Gear Knob leather, Climate Control, Cup Holder, Front Armrest, Front Electric Windows, Rake/Reach Adjustable Steering Column/Wheel, Heated Rear Screen, Anti-lock Brakes, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Electronic Stability Programme, Driver/Passenger Heated Seats, Driver/Passenger Seat Height Adjustment, Seats Split Rear and Seat - isofix Anchorage Point. Anti-Lock Brakes, Driver/Passenger Seat Height Adjustment, Driver, Passenger And Front Side Air Bags, Alarm, 18In Alloy Wheels, Radio/CD/MP3, Remote Central Door Locking, Climate Control, Driver Information System, Front Armrest, Front Electric Windows, Front/Rear Head Restraints, Driver/Passenger Heated Seats, Power-Assisted Steering, Seat - ISOFIX Anchorage Point, Seats Split Rear, Electronic Stability Programme, Rake/Reach Adjustable Steering Column/Wheel, Tinted Glass, Immobilisers, Front Fog Lights, Headlamp Wash, Heated Rear Screen, Electric/Heated Door Mirrors, Steering Wheel Heated, Body Coloured Bumpers, Gear Knob Leather, Speakers, Cup Holder, Center Rear Seat Belt, Spacesaver Spare Wheel, Electronic Brake Force Distribution.
Dynamism, sportiness and sophistication - the Audi A3 occupies an outstanding position in the premium compact class. Now its top-of-the-range version is ready to go, the new Audi S3 boasting 195 kW (265 bhp) and quattro permanent four-wheel drive. With its sparkling performance it pursues the ideal of pure driving pleasure coupled with excellent everyday practicality - like all Audi S models.
The S3 redefines the standards of its class - at the level of a sports car. It races from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.7 seconds, and its forward urge remains unbridled until it reaches 250 km/h. Aggressively hard-hitting, free-revving and with a sonorous acoustic profile, the powerful two-litre, turbocharged four-cylinder unit with FSI petrol direct injection proves to be a smooth, high-performance engine.
This power is transmitted by the six-speed gearbox and quattro permanent four-wheel drive to large alloy wheels with an 18-inch diameter. The new S sports suspension on the S3 allows a sporty driving style combined with the ultimate in comfort. The steering characteristic of the electromechanical steering has been adapted to the sporty handling. This sporty compact car responds actively to steering movements, exhibits precise and safe handling characteristics and, thanks to quattro technology, accelerates unrelentingly out of bends.
The high dynamic potential of this three-door sports car is obvious at first glance. The single-frame grille features chrome trim, the front apron has a spoiler with large air inlets and the side sills have been restyled. There is a contrasting platinum Grey diffuser built into the rear apron, along with two S-style oval chrome tailpipes on the left. Aluminium-look exterior mirrors and a body-coloured roof spoiler give added impact to the visual statement.


Interior: sporty atmosphere
The interior conveys an atmosphere of sportiness, with materials of the highest quality and meticulous craftsmanship. The elements that dominate the styling are the sports seats with dynamic and prominent side sections, the black or alternatively silver headlining, and the instrument cluster with its typical S dials and needles.
The pedals, gear knob and air vents are in aluminum look, the inlays are in Piano finish black, or alternatively aluminum or Fine grain birch wood Grey. The red and silver S3 emblem is to be found on the leather sports steering wheel, in the instrument cluster, on the gear knob and on the door sill trims. The seats are upholstered in a combination of cloth and leather or, as an option, in Alcantara/Leather or completely in leather. The two-tone leather seats are decorated with stitching in the same colour as their center section.
TFSI in its most powerful form
The power plant of the S3 delivers all that is expected of a powerful sports engine, and does so supremely well. The 2.0 TFSI, developed by AUDI AG, combines direct injection and turbocharger technology and delivers 195 kW (265 bhp) at 6,000 rpm. And at just 2,500 rpm it already musters up an impressive 350 Nm of torque - this pulling power remains constant up to 5,000 rpm. In the combined driving cycle the 2.0 TFSI displays another welcome character trait, consuming just 9.1 litres of fuel over 100 km - further proof of the forward-looking efficiency of TFSI technology developed by Audi.
Compared with the A3, this engine is an advanced version featuring fundamental changes. The new turbocharger with its enlarged turbine and compressor rotor generates 1.2 bar of boost pressure - an unusually high figure. A modified intercooler significantly lowers the temperature of the compressed air, thus increasing the air mass that is necessary for combustion.
The new high-performance TFSI engine features pistons with stronger pins, while strengthened connecting rods with new bearings transmit the powerful forces to the crankshaft. The cylinder block has been reinforced, and the head is made of a new, highly heat-resistant alloy.
The exhaust camshaft timing has been adjusted to accommodate the increased power output. High-pressure injectors with an enlarged cross-section squirt the fuel straight into the combustion chamber.
For all its progressive technology, the high-performance turbo engine tips the scales at just 152 kilograms, less than comparable engines of direct competitors - with a positive impact on the axle load distribution.
To go with its sporty nature and firm handling, the new Audi S3 has a six-speed, close-ratio manual gearbox. Gearshift travel has been reduced for the S3, permitting even sportier and more precise gear changes. As is the case for all Audi S models, the new S3 drives all four wheels by means of quattro permanent four-wheel drive. An electronically controlled hydraulic multi-plate clutch, positioned at the rear for the benefit of weight balance, distributes the torque as needed - delivering plenty of grip and maximum driving safety. All the drivetrain components have been strengthened to cope with the high level of engine torque.
Handling: lightning-fast reactions
In terms of handling, the Audi S3 exhibits all the qualities of a high-performance sports car; it responds immediately to steering movements and achieves high cornering speeds. The innately sophisticated suspension of the A3 - with subframes front and rear, triangulated lower wishbones at the front and four-link suspension at the rear - has been further refined.
The springs and shock absorbers have been given firmer ratings, with the result that the S3 sits 25 millimeters lower than an A3 with standard suspension. The pivot bearings and wishbones made from aluminum reduce the unsprung weight, further enhancing dynamic response and comfort. Stiffer suspension mounts and a sportier characteristic for the electromechanical steering provide even greater precision.
18-inch alloy wheels and 225/40 tyres ensure firm adhesion to the road surface. A 17-inch brake system with sports brake pads guarantees optimum deceleration; the black painted calipers bear the S3 logo at the front.
The extras also include a leather steering wheel with flat-bottomed rim and - in the quattro GmbH range - folding bucket seats. In the infotainment area, Audi is presenting a new generation of audio systems. The premium package is rounded off by universal interfaces for mobile phone and iPod, plus a sound system from Bose with eight high-performance speakers. Standard equipment includes deluxe automatic air conditioning, a driver information system with a new lap-timer function, and an anti-theft alarm. Front fog lights and xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights also underline the impressive price/performance ratio. The starting price of the 265 bhp Audi S3 in Germany is EUR 35,150. 

The Audi R8 Spyder will be available with 4.2-liter V8 engine 420 hp, most probably already next year. The car will cost approximately € 125.000, more than 30,000 euros less than the R8 Spyder V10 525-hp 5.2, which debuted recently on the market. With the addition of the engine “smaller”, the range of the R8 discovery will then be identical to that of the coupe.

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Wednesday, January 12, 2011

2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 All Models Sports Car

Exterior and Interior

The tuned-up Porsche’s exterior comes with a number of imported tuning items from various tuners including a Misha body kit, ADV.1 wheels, a carbon fiber side mirror, a GT2 style wing blade, and a carbon fiber custom model name plate. As for the interior, By Design Motorsport outfitted the 997 TT with leather and corresponding white stitching. In addition to that, there’s also a handful of carbon fiber in the interior, including the steering wheel, the door panels, the center console, the A/C surround, the back seats, and the chrono.

Performance

By Design Motorsport kept the performance upgrades at a minimum, although with these few upgrades, there was still a noticeable bump in overall performance. Among the additions include a new exhaust system from RUF, a new set of springs from H&R Springs, and RSS 7mm spacers.

Pricing

By Design Motorsport still hasn’t released a price tag for their overall package on the 997 TT so we’ll hold off making any announcements on that end. As far as making estimates are concerned, a Porsche 997 TT with My Design Motor sports package should be north of six digits.

Competition

A lot of other tuning firms have whipped up their own programs on the 997, not the least of which includes Gemballa, AWE Tuning, Prior Design, and the upstart Anna Bizer. All these companies modified their 997s with their own parts and packages, unlike By Design Motorsport, who decided that having the best of all worlds would create a Porsche that’s going to stand out over everything else. 
Quote
Ultimate 911 extracts 620 ultra-efficient, twin-turbocharged horsepower from 3.6 liters; dramatically improved power-to-weight ratio and increased fuel economy

The power: 620 hp. The weight: 3,020 lb (1,370 kilograms) in road trim with all fluids on board. The car: the new 2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS.

90 More Horsepower, 154 lbs Less Filling
The latest 911 is the fastest and most powerful road-going sports car ever built in the history of Porsche. With horsepower (hp) up by 90 and weight down by 154 lbs (70 kilograms) in comparison with the previous 911 GT2, the new 911 GT2 RS has a power-to-weight ratio of just 4.9 lbs (2.21 kg) per horsepower, by far the best power/weight ratio in its class. These are the ideal ingredients for an ultra-high-performance sports car with supreme agility and truly blistering performance on the road. Perfectly illustrating Porsche Intelligent Performance, the 2011 GT2 RS achieves a reduction of approximately 5 percent for both fuel consumption and CO2 emission reduction when compared with the previous 911 GT2.

The 3.6 liter six-cylinder boxer engine features two variable turbine geometry turbochargers and provides power to the rear wheels exclusively through a six-speed manual gearbox. Equally impressive stopping power comes from Porsche Composite Ceramic Brakes (PCCB).

Unique Tires, One of a Kind Performance
New tires were specifically developed for the 911 GT2 RS and measure 245/35 ZR 19 at the front and 325/30 ZR 19 at the rear, delivering cornering performance to match the straight-line speed. Extreme cornering dynamics are ensured by the setup of the springs, Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management (PASM), unique anti-roll bars, specific engine mounts and recalibrated Porsche Stability Management (PSM), whose stability and traction control functions can be switched off individually.

The combined effect of these developments is evident on the racetrack. In fact, the ultimate 911 accelerates from 0-60 in 3.4 seconds, boasts a top-track speed of 205 mph and laps the famed Nürburgring-Nordschleife racetrack in just 7 minutes and 18 seconds.

Carbon Fiber, Limited Production
In its looks, the new 911 GT2 RS stands out clearly from the other 911 models through the lavish use of carbon-fiber-reinforced (CFR) components with a matt-black surface finish, even wider wheels (including flared wheel arches at the front), new light-alloy wheels with central locking and "GT2 RS" model designations on the doors and rear lid. Matte-finish carbon also graces the redesigned front spoiler lip and the 3/8th of an inch (10 mm) taller rear spoiler lip - which both enhance aerodynamics and provide extra downforce.

The interior of the 911 GT2 RS also exudes sporting performance in virtually every detail. Lightweight two-piece bucket seats made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic are standard, as are lightweight door panels with fabric straps instead of traditional door handles. The basic interior color is black, which contrasts with red elements, such as the seat center sections, the roof lining and segments of the steering wheel rim. The gearshift and handbrake lever are also finished in red alcantara. 

The Porsche 911 GT3 RSR takes off into the new motor sports season with extensive modifications. The 2011 version of the world's most successful GT race car celebrated its international premiere at the "Night of Champions" party held at the R&D Center in Weissach to mark the end of the motor sports season. Priority in the further development of the GT3 RSR was given to the newly designed aerodynamics at the front and rear, changes to the suspension kinematics and to the engine.

The 4.0-litre, six-cylinder boxer engine now delivers 455 hp (355 kW) at 7,800 revs, five horsepower more than its predecessor. The power increase results from an engine management system which adapts even better to different fuel grades, as well as a redesigned exhaust system and a modified air intake housing. Moreover, the driveability of the famously efficient engine has undergone further improvements. Maximum revs remain unchanged at 9,400 rpm.

Clearly visible are the modifications to the front. A new front lip provides higher downforce at the front axle. The front wheels are now wider with the rims growing from 11 to 12 inches giving additional grip and less of an understeering tendency. The position of the rear wing and the shape of the wing mounting also underwent optimisation and were adapted to the new rear fairing with additional air outlet louvers. The rear lid was also redesigned for optimised air ducting. Like the 911 GT3 Cup and the GT3 R, the RSR has now been equipped with the LED rear lights taken from the latest 911 road-legal cars.
 

With out a doubt, the new Porsche 997 Turbo is the perfection of power and class. This perfect sports car is a blend of race cars and production cars. Look at it, inside and out and you will come to understand what I am talking about. Its treatment of the most vanguard technologies ensures top-quality handling and performance.
The 2010 vehicle comes with a standard six-speed manual gearbox, it bolts from 0 to 60 in just 3.5 seconds. If the new vehicle is equipped with the optional Porsche Doppelganger PDK and Sport Chrono Package Turbo with the Dynamic Engine Mount system, the time is further reduced to a startling 3.2 seconds.
The new car now has LED back lights which peter out to the fenders. The LED brake lights have a utility that offers particularly quick reaction to braking, as a consequence making certain of road safety. 
The new Sportec 997 Turbo SP580 tuning kit is now available for the Porsche 997. Engineers from Sportec have boosted power from 500 PS (368 kW / 493 hp) to 580 PS (572 hp / 427 kW). If those numbers sound familiar, it is because the Swiss tuning firm developed a package that provided the same horsepower on the last SP580. However, the torque rating is reduced on this model, but is the same as the standard Porsche 997 turbo facelift.
Sportec SP580 Porsche 997 Turbo Face lift
Now, the new model sprints to 100 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, and to 200 km/h in 10.3 seconds. Top speed on the car is 323 km/h. The sprint times are faster than the old SP580, but the previous model topped out at 338 km/h (210 mph).
New forged 20-inch wheels have been developed for the car.  However, the aero kit with front spoiler, big rear wing, and side skirts seems to be carried over from the pre-facelift kit.
With the new SP580 Sportec is once more prowling in the stomping ground of the super sports car. True to the sporty understatement Sportec the Porsche 997 turbo is a real leopard in wolf's clothing - this is ensured by the full 580 PS and powerful 650 Nm torque that can be had at just 1.950-5.000 revs.
Thus equipped the Sportec SP580 achieves the standard spring from 0 to 100 km/h in only 3.2 seconds. The occupants of the SP580 are catapulted from 0 to 200 km/h in a breathtaking 10.3 seconds. Only at 323 km/h does the revolution limiter put an end to this flush of speed.
Externally only the powerful Sportec Mono7 forged 20 inch wheels and the completely new aerodynamic package that holds true to the Sportec Motto "more substance, less style", suggest that beholder isn't looking at a mass production vehicle from Zuffenhausen. An aerodynamically optimised front spoiler, discrete side skirts along with a larger tail plane - as an option also to be had in carbon - both technically and optically complete the SP580. And if that wasn't enough the exterior mirrors and the air intakes can be had in matt carbon.
The aluminum pedals and foot supports as well as the bucket seats are all further signs of its sportiness. And for those who like it a little sportier there is a lowering set that brings the chassis around 20 millimeters nearer to the tarmac. For use on the race track Sportec offers a special PASM compatible super sports suspension that can be individually adjusted to suit every purpose and all race track conditions.

2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 from Side View Picture 
2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 from Side View Picture
2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 from Dashboard View Picture 
2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580 from Dashboard View Picture
The Porsche 997 Turbo RENM RM580 is an impressive performance of modified 580 hp (426kw) and 650 Nm maximum torque.The More power is achieved through reprogramming of ECU parameters, creating a sports exhaust system, full carbon discharge, sport air filter and air intake. With the addition of a stronger output values, could change to RM580 0 to 100 km / h in 3.1 seconds and 200 mph speed in 10.2 seconds before reaching a top speed of 325 km / h.
The T309 stainless steel pipe is the flow produced sport catalysts and uses sound and controls. The valve control can be used to program and control the exact amount of pressure used in the exhaust system.
A number of suspension upgrade options for the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with models. The Porsche 997 Turbo RENM RM580 comes equipped with 20-inch custom-made three-part forged wheels with titanium screws with high-performance tires. The tuning program also comes with the ability of selected interior and other upgrade options, including improved steering wheel and carbon fiber trim sections.
In terms of aerodynamic improvements to the tax, the RM580 a reshaped front spoiler and a larger rear inflow. RENM offers several improvements ride handling, from a spring kit to the chassis by 20 mm to race full of lift reduced systems. These include special PASM compliant suspension that can be tailored to different circumstances.

2011 Porsche 997 Sports Car View Pictures

The Porsche 997 Turbo RENM Car
9ff Porsche 997 GT3 In the car
2011 RENM Porsche 997 Turbo RM580
Official 2011 Porsche 997 GT2 RS Car
lightweight body of the Porsche 997 sports car

Monday, January 10, 2011

2011 Subaru Legacy Sports Carz Details

Subaru press release :
    * Fresh, modern styling for longer, wider, taller Legacy Sports Tourer
    * Peerless all-weather traction from updated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
    * More room inside high-quality cabin, and up to 1,726-litres of luggage space
    * Recently awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating
On sale from 1 December, the Legacy Sports Tourer features a bold new look, increased space and comfort for all occupants, improved dynamics and refinement, and enhanced safety.

The Legacy Sports Tourer offers the combination of Horizontally-Opposed ‘Boxer’ diesel engine and Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive).  This well-proven set-up, further refined by Subaru’s engineers for the fifth-generation car, has made successive generations of Legacy Tourer the preferred choice for motorists seeking a practical family car that delivers rewarding yet secure handling in all weather conditions.

The Legacy Sports Tourer exudes on-road presence thanks to a bold front-end design and an increase in overall dimensions: the car is wider (by 50mm), taller (by 65mm) and longer (by 55mm).

The new grille (complete with ‘wing motif’) flanked by elongated headlights is both modern and instantly recognizable as a Subaru.  Prominent wheel-arches hint at the impressive power running through the Symmetrical AWD system, while the strong belt line and a chrome-rimmed glass-house give the Legacy Sports Tourer a premium feel.

The luxurious and spacious interior has been completely redesigned to give occupants more room and to improve comfort levels.  For example, front headroom has risen by 21mm over the previous model, and legroom for rear-seat passengers increases by 99mm, aided by an 80mm increase in wheelbase.

Key to the Legacy’s sustained appeal over the years has been the practicality it offers buyers, and the latest incarnation is no different.  Boasting a generous 526 litres of stowage capacity with the 60/40 split rear seats in place, the new model offers an additional 67 litres over its predecessor.  Fold the rear pews flat, and a cavernous 1,677-litre cargo hold is created.

Subaru has adopted a revised MacPherson strut front suspension design, with the lower arm mounted on the sub-frame for greater stability and refinement.  The thickness of the stabilizer (anti-roll) bar has also been increased, improving roll resistance and offering even greater agility.

Underneath the ‘new-look’ styling, the New Legacy Sports Tourer has a completely re-engineered all-steel unitary structure that delivers the highest crash safety performance.  The vehicle was recently awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating.

Legacy’s loyal customer base of over 3.6 million buyers worldwide has come to expect high levels of standard specification, and the latest version will not disappoint.  Standard features include 18” alloy wheels, tilt-and-slide sunroof, leather interior, heated front seats, six CD tuner with RDS and six speakers, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic activation for wipers and headlights.

COMFORT AND CONVENIENCE

The Legacy Sports Tourer features dual-zone, fully automatic air-conditioning with an anti-dust filter and heating ducts to the rear passenger foot wells.  A premium audio system, with a radio/CD player, six speakers (including two tweeters) and steering wheel-mounted remote controls, is standard.  For the New Legacy Sports Tourer, radio reception has been significantly improved by the fitting of two high performance antennas within the rear window glass.

The audio systems are MP3 compatible and a Bluetooth* hands-free system is fitted as standard.  Voice activation from the hands-free microphone allows users to make phone calls, specify navigation destinations and operate the audio appliances.

Facing the New Legacy Sports Tourer driver, the new instrument panel integrates clarity, functionality and a visual richness in keeping with the premium character of the new model.  Four dials are ringed in aluminum and feature an additional liquid crystal display panel in the center.  The dials and the display are illuminated constantly, even in daytime, to improve visibility.  The dials appear white with the ignition off and turn light blue with the ignition on.  When the ignition is switched on, the gauge needles sweep to the maximum position and then quickly return to zero – heightening the excitement and anticipation of the journey to come.  A glow indicator, sedimenter warning light and diesel particulate filter warning light are also on display.

The new Multi-Information Display (MID) is positioned on the center stack’s upper surface so that it can be viewed from all seats.  The MID shows ambient temperature, fuel consumption information (instantaneous fuel efficiency, average fuel efficiency, driving range to empty), passenger seat belt warning lights and a digital clock.

Major controls in the New Legacy Sports Tourer are laid out to minimize both the intrusion into the driver’s line of sight and the time the driver’s hands are away from the steering wheel.  Minor controls and switches are positioned to optimize ease-of-use. 

*Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth

PRACTICALITY

The cabin is also longer, wider and taller than that of its predecessor, facilitating improvements in comfort and practicality.  The interior also demonstrates lessons learned in Subaru’s latest ‘packaging innovation’ research programmed.

Larger seats are fitted to make best-use of the increased space around each occupant.  The space between the front seats has increased by 30 mm and the between the front and rear seats is increased by 62 mm.  The rear seat backrest is split 60/40% and folds flat to offer the best people/cargo carrying versatility.  With the rear seats upright, cargo capacity is increased by 67 litres to 526 litres.

Larger rear doors result in improved access to the rear seats, and detailed attention to the window shapes and pillar layouts ensures a greater feeling of ‘openness’ for the rear seat occupants in the New Legacy Sports Tourer.

While the width and height of the luggage bay were increased, the depth of the lip between the rear bumper and cargo was reduced slightly to ensure it is easier for users to load and unload heavy items when lifting them into the interior.  The tailgate, which is 33mm wider and 45mm taller than before for easier access, features an electromagnetic switch for easy opening with a light touch, aided by twin supporting gas struts.

The new front seats have concave backrests to provide extra knee space for rear seat occupants.  The rear seat features a folding center armrest with twin cup holders, and the backrests can be reclined for greater comfort during long journeys.  A remote one-touch mechanism conveniently located in the cargo bay side panel enables the backrests to be folded flat in one simple operation from the rear tailgate when loading long items.

The designers also paid attention to create generously sized, easy-to-use storage space for smaller items – with capacity increased by 39 litres over the previous model.

A larger glovebox will accept 31 CDs, while the new double-decker center console, which can accommodate 22 CDs, incorporates a 12V power supply and AUX audio input socket.

Two cup-holders are provided alongside the center console, while a 500 ml plastic bottle can be stored in all door pockets.  A 50 mm thick box of tissues can also be accommodated in the front door pockets.  A central overhead console is provided for storage of sunglasses and small items.

Interior Dimensions (mm)

Headroom (front)                1024
            (rear)                          951
Legroom (front)                  1091
            (rear)                         960
Shoulder room (front)        1430
            (rear)                         1426
Hip room (front)                  1384
            (rear)                        1370
Cargo space (seats up)      526
            (seats folded)          1726
Cargo width                        1090
Cargo height                         815
Cargo depth*                       1070
*length front-to-rear

ENGINES

In March 2008, Subaru introduced the ‘Boxer Diesel’, the world’s first horizontally-opposed diesel engine for volume-produced passenger cars.  The 1,998 cc diesel produces a maximum output of 150 ps and maximum torque of 350 Nm between 1,800 and 2,400 rpm.

Now, for the New Legacy Sports Tourer, this unique engine benefits from several technical refinements and enhanced environmentally-friendly features.  The shape of the piston crowns has been changed for a wider, shallower design.  This, in conjunction with improvements made to gas flow within the combustion chamber have improved combustion efficiency and reduced the production of particulate matter.  A ‘lift sensor’ has been added to the variable nozzle turbocharger for more precise control of the vanes.

The glow plugs have been changed from a metallic type to a ceramic type, raising the maximum operating temperature and providing better start-up at cold temperatures.

Control of the fuel injection has been optimised and the intake manifold has been redesigned in resin for improved airflow for improved torque characteristics and fuel efficiency.  An added benefit of the new resin construction is the 1.5kg weight reduction over the previous aluminum version.

A single exhaust silencer has been used to optimize engine output and noise levels, while also saving weight.  The addition of a vibration absorbing structure in the middle of main exhaust pipe also reduces noise levels.

The Subaru Boxer Diesel is fitted with a closed-type diesel particulate filter (DPF) that features a honeycomb shaped filter made of silicon carbide.  The DPF, which is positioned low down with the turbocharger to maintain the car’s low center of gravity, improves engine combustion efficiency and reduces particulate matter in the exhaust, further enhancing environmental friendliness.

And finally, the exhaust gas recirculate (EGR) cooler has been enlarged to improve the system’s efficiency by 12% – lowering NOx emissions to ensure that the New Legacy complies with Euro 5 exhaust gas regulations.

TRANSMISSION AND DRIVE TRAIN

Standard transmission is a new manual six-speed unit.  This compact transmission is the same length as the previous five-speed unit and weighs just five kg more.

Improvements featured in the new transmission include a cable-type linkage and a carbon synchronize for the first and second ratios, constantly-engaged synchromesh for reverse gear, to improve the shift feel and optimised lubrication paths for reduced friction losses.  The broader ratio coverage provided by the six-speed unit delivers better fuel economy, plus improved drivability and quietness at higher speeds.

Full-time ‘Symmetrical’ AWD – the Subaru hallmark

While numerous aspects of the New Legacy Sports Tourer are indeed ‘all-new’, the Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel-Drive) system is carried over, giving the new model all the traction advantages for which the Subaru brand is famous.

Four-wheel drive is delivered by a ‘Center differential AWD with viscous LSD’ system.  This combines a bevel-gear-type center differential with the basic 50/50% front/rear, torque distribution and a viscous coupling limited slip differential.  When a front wheel or rear wheel slips, the viscous coupling raises the torque distribution to other wheels to ensure optimum traction.

The Legacy Sports Tourer is equipped with Subaru’s Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system.  This is an electronic stability control programmed (ESC) that closely monitors vehicle behavior and automatically corrects excessive understeer and over steer, by braking individual wheels and/or reducing engine power, to ensure that vehicle follows the course intended by the driver, ensuring maximum safety.

RUNNING GEAR

New suspension, sub-frame and power steering

Following the strong traditional of the ‘Subaru Dynamic Chassis Control Concept’, engineers devised and developed the chassis and running gear for the New Legacy Sports Tourer to feature many new and updated components.  Their aim was to create a new Subaru that was exceptionally comfortable and safe to drive for long periods, and over many years of ownership, while also guaranteeing good drivability, high performance and genuine motoring pleasure.

To reduce noise, vibrations and harshness (NVH), and to enhance ride comfort, the engine mounting structure has been entirely renewed.  An all-new ‘Cradle Mount System’ was adopted where the engine and transmission are mounted on a sub-frame – rather than directly to the bodyshell.  This system brings numerous benefits.

The sub-frame is attached to the bodyshell using rubber bushes, especially tuned to dampen different frequencies of vibrations generated by the engine, transmission and suspension.  For example, the main cushion rubber uses a liquid-filled type of bush, and the engine is supported on the subframe at four widely-spread points.

In addition, the front suspension and the power steering are mounted on the sub-frame, so that potential vibrations from the road surface are not easily transferred to the bodyshell or the car’s occupants – improving ride comfort and refinement.

New front and rear suspension

For the New Legacy Sports Tourer, Subaru has adopted a revised MacPherson strut front suspension, with the lower arm mounted on the sub-frame for greater stability.  Steering response is enhanced, and quietness is increased by reducing vibrations.  The thickness of the stabilizer (anti-roll) bar is increased, improving roll stiffness without requiring a change to the main spring rates.  Road-holding during cornering is enhanced (thanks in part to a wider track), while smooth ride comfort is retained with extended wheel travel and optimised geometry.

At the rear, new ‘short height’ compact double-wishbone suspension is used to minimize intrusion into the cabin or cargo space.  For maximum refinement, all the suspension links and the rear differential are installed on a new sub-frame.  Large bushes are used between the sub-frame and the bodyshell to minimize transfer of NVH.

To achieve an ideal ride/handling balance, Bilstein dampers are fitted, front and rear.  These dampers are tuned exclusively to match the characteristics of the standard 18-inch wheels and tyres, (225/45R18 tyres) ensuring a sense of ‘solidity and stability’ in fast driving, without loss of smoothness.

New electronic parking brake and hill-hold function

The all-disc braking system, with ABS and EBD (Electric Brake-force Distribution) as standard, has a linear feel with retardation corresponding closely to applied brake pedal pressure.  A redesigned master cylinder gives a 30% faster response to driver inputs on the brake pedal.

Brake Assist is also standard, developing maximum stopping power automatically when the system detects emergency application of the brakes.

For the New Legacy Sports Tourer, an innovative electronic parking brake is used.  Controlled by a dashboard mounted switch, the new system does away with the traditional hand brake, freeing up cabin space and allowing a cleaner, less cluttered center console design.  If the doors are closed and the driver’s seat belt is fastened then the parking brake will automatically release when the driver operates the accelerator pedal.

The new braking system also introduces a ‘Hill-Hold’ function.  When the vehicle is stopped on a slope of 5% or more this feature will hold the vehicle on the brakes for one second after the driver removes their foot from the clutch – long enough to move it to the accelerator without rolling back; a feature that is particularly useful when towing.

STRUCTURE AND SAFETY

As well as ‘new-look’ styling, larger dimensions and new suspension, the New Legacy Sports Tourer has a completely reviewed and re-engineered bodyshell.  The all-steel unitary structure is refined to enhance ride, handling and refinement, while also delivering the highest level of crash safety performance.  The New Legacy Sports Tourer was recently awarded a 5-Star Euro NCAP crash safety rating, confirming that Subaru’s structural and safety engineers have achieved their targets for this new model.

Newly developed, the bodyshell is both lighter and stiffer, featuring ring-shaped reinforcement frames – ‘circular links’ – joining the A, B, C and D-pillars with cross members at roof and floor level.  This creates a series of ‘circular links’ which strongly protects the cabin occupants.  Ultra-high-strength steel plate (980 Mpa level) is used at key portions of the bodyshell to achieve strength without adding significantly to overall weight.

By fully exploiting the structural characteristics of the newly adopted sub-frame mounting system, the front body structure is redesigned to improve the rigidity of the front suspension installation and to enhance impact resistance as well as steering response.  These improvements, and reinforcement of the engine bay bulkhead and toe board areas, were accomplished while also saving 6 kg from the front body panels.

The rear floor structure has also been optimised to accommodate the new sub-frame and to reduce weight while increasing rigidity, further improving rear suspension characteristics and vehicle drivability.

Delivering ‘5-Star’ crash safety protection

Using the advanced ring-shaped reinforcements throughout the New Legacy Sports Tourer bodyshell enhances collision safety and resistance to impacts from all directions.  In addition, the newly adopted ‘cradle mount’ sub-frame mounting system contributes to an enlarged front-end crush zone, further improving occupant protection and the Euro NCAP test performance.

During a front-end collision, the new front ‘cradle mount’ sub-frame deforms in a controlled manner and pushes the power unit downwards to the rear.  As a result, the rearward movement of such a large mass dissipates impact energy and assists the efficient absorption of collision energy by the main body structure.

To enhance side-impact protection, ultra-high-strength steel plate (980 Mpa level) is used for the B-pillar and side sill structures to improve the local cabin area rigidity.  In addition, two door impact beams are placed within each front and rear door.  By optimally positioning the beams in relation to the door’s internal structure, a sufficient crush space is ensured to minimize intrusion.  Furthermore, a ‘door catcher’ is fitted to the bottom of the rear door to prevent it intruding into the cabin.

Despite the relatively short rear overhang, the New Legacy’s structure is optimised so that rear impact energy is efficiently absorbed by controlled and gradual crushing of the rear sub-frames.

‘Passive’ safety advances that also benefit pedestrians

While a robust structure can form the foundation for a truly safe car, Subaru has also ensured that the New Legacy Sports Tourer is comprehensively kitted out with a full range of both ‘passive’ and ‘active’ safety equipment – as the best way to prevent occupant injury is to overcome the hazards of daily motoring and avoid any accident in the first place.

The new front seats have significantly-increased frame and inner-structure stiffness to provide protection against whiplash injuries.  New-design, energy-absorbing head restraints offer greater protection by reducing head impact forces.

Front dual, side and curtain airbags are fitted as standard on all models.  The side and curtain airbags are enlarged for enhanced performance, and the airbag impact sensors have been upgraded to improve responses.

To protect the driver’s knee and lower leg, the steering column’s structure has been redesigned with an impact-absorption space, and a knee protector is fitted.  All the foot pedals have a collapsible function (above a pre-set g-force) to reduce the likelihood of foot injuries.

The issue of pedestrian protection has also been addressed.  New, impact-absorbing materials and an optimised structure around the front bumper have been designed to exceed the European next-generation pedestrian protection standards, which are the most stringent in the world.

Although steel is used for the hood (to maximize protection of the car’s occupants), the impact-absorbing space beneath the hood and above the low boxer engine is enlarged, and the structure is improved around the body cowl to reduce possible injury to a pedestrian.

EQUIPMENT

Standard Equipment

Exterior
Body-coloured bumpers
Body-coloured door mirrors housings
Body-coloured door handles
Electric folding, heated door mirrors with LED indicators
HID head lamps with power washers and automatic self-leveling
Front fog lights
UV protected front, side and rear glass
Intermittent rear wash/wiper
18-inch alloy wheels with 225/45R18 tyres
Bilstein suspension
Powered glass tilt-n-slide sunroof with interior sunshade
Sports front bumper and grille
Black headlamp housings

Interior
Welcome lights front and rear
Leather upholstery and trim
Tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment
Steering wheel mounted audio and cruise controls
Leather-wrapped steering and gear selector
10-way electrically adjustable driver’s seat with memory
Adjustable lumbar support
Driver’s seatback storage pocket
Front passenger seatback storage pocket
Heated front seats
Aluminum foot pedals
Carbon-fibre effect interior trims
Driver and passenger illuminated vanity mirrors
Front map reading lights and cascade lighting
Electric windows front and rear
Adjustable dashboard illumination
Multi Information Display
Multi-function cent re console with 12v power outlet
Front and rear cup-holders
60/40 spilt rear seat with center armrest
Retractable luggage cover

Comfort and Convenience
Automatic dusk-sensing headlamps
Automatic rain-sensing wipers
Dual-zone automatic air-conditioning
Cruise control
Bluetooth connectivity
Eco driving ‘change-up’ indicator
Gear-in-use indicator
Six CD tuner with RDS and six speakers
Speed-adjusting automatic volume control
AUX input socket in center console
Audible headlights on reminder
Remote fuel flap release
Hill start assist linked to VDC system

Safety
Front, front side and curtain air bags
Vehicle Dynamics Control stability system
Traction Control
ABS, EBD and EBA braking systems
AWD full-time all-wheel drive system
Electronic push/pull handbrake

Security
Remote central locking with deadlocks
High security integrated audio system
Rolling code ECU immobilisers

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION

Engine
2.0-litre / 150 ps Diesel
Name                        Subaru Boxer Diesel
Type                           DOHC, horizontally opposed ‘flat four’, with VGT
Capacity                     2.0-litres, 1,998 cc
Bore & Stroke            86.0 x 86.0 mm
Compression ratio    16.0:1
Max power                150 ps (110 kW) @ 3,600 rpm
Max torque                350 Nm (258.2 lbf.ft) @ 1,800-2.400 rpm
Valves                       16 (4-per-cylinder)
Fuel system             CRDi, common-rail, high pressure, direct injection
Turbo system           Variable geometry turbocharger (VGT)
Construction              Aluminum cylinder block and aluminum heads
Emissions class       Euro Stage 5

Transmission
                                                            
Manual                      6-sp

Gear Ratios

1                               3.454:1                      
2                               1.750:1                         
3                               1.062:1                         
4                               0.785:1                         
5                               0.634:1                         
6                               0.557:1                      

Reverse                  3.636:1                      
Final Drive 1           4.111:1                      

Drivetrain
2.0D                        AWD with center differential coupled to viscous LSD

Suspension and Damping
Front                       Fully independent by subframe-mounted MacPherson Struts, with coil springs and Bilsteins. Anti-roll stabilizer bar.
Rear                        Fully independent by subframe-mounted Double Wishbones, coil springs and Bilsteins.

Steering
Type                        Electric power-assisted rack & pinion
Wheel                   375 mm diameter, three-spoke leather trimmed.
Gearing                 2.8 turns lock-to-lock
Turning circle        11.0 metres

Brakes                                              
Power                     229                  
Front                       294x24            
Rear                        286x10            
ABS                        4-Channel anti-lock system with EBD
BAS                        Boosts braking power to maximum during emergency stops

Wheels and Tyres
Alloy 18 in x 7.5J     225/45 R18 tyres

Spare                       Tyre mobility kit

Dimensions (mm)
Exterior
Overall length           4775              Overall width              2052/1780*
Overall height           1535               Wheelbase                  2750
Front track                 1540               Rear track                  1540
Front overhang         960                Rear overhang            1065
Ground clearance     150               *including/excluding door mirrors

Interior
                                   Front                Rear
Headroom               1024                  951
Legroom                  1091                  960
Shoulder room        1430                1426
Hip room                  1384                1370

Capacities
Fuel tank                     65 litres
Luggage (VDA)          526 litres          behind 2nd row seats
                                     1677 litres        behind 1st row seats

Weights (kg)
                                                            
Curb weight (min.)      1558              
Gross weight               2075                
Towing (max) kg*       750                  
                                       1700              

Performance 
                        
Top speed / Kph         203                  
0-to-100 Kph / sec     9.6                 

Fuel Economy (litres)
                                              
CO2 g/km                  168                

Generous Warranty
All models marketed by Subaru Ireland come with the reassurance of a three year or 160,000 kilometers warranty, plus twelve year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.
This is in addition to three year’s membership of Subaru Assist – a comprehensive home and roadside repair and recovery package throughout Ireland and Europe administered by Mapfre Asistencia. 
2011 Subaru Legacy Sports Tourer Prices, Subaru has just released pricing for the 2011 Legacy Sports Tourer that should be available from December 2010. The car is all-round bigger than the previous generation, comes with a Peerless all-weather traction updated Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, as well as a revised cabin space.
2011-subaru-legacy-sports-tourer
The 2011 Subaru Legacy Sportus Torer price starts at EUR41,995 ($57,890) and power is provided by a Boxer Diesel engine 1,998 cc in capacity which delivers 150 PS and 350 Nm of torque. The revised oil burner now complies with Euro 5 standards for emissions thanks to a number of improvements that result in a 12 percent lowering of the NOx emissions.
The Legacy Sports Tourer exudes on-road presence thanks to a bold front-end design and an increase in overall dimensions: the car is wider by 50 mm, taller by 65 mm and longer by 55 mm.
The spacious interior has been redesigned to give occupants more room and to improve comfort levels.  Thus, front headroom has been improved by 21mm over the previous model, and legroom for rear-seat passengers grows by by 99mm, thanks in part to an 80mm increase in wheelbase.
Part of the Legacy’s appeal was given by its large, practical boot. The new model comes with 526 liters of storage capacity with the 60/40 split rear seats in place, that’s an additional 67 litres over its predecessor.  Fold the rear bench flat, and a cavernous 1,677-litre cargo hold is thus obtained.
Standard features include 18” alloy wheels, tilt-and-slide sunroof, leather interior, heated front seats, six CD tuner with RDS and six speakers, dual-zone automatic air-conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, and automatic activation for wipers and headlights.
The new cars come with a three year or 160,000 kilometers (99,419 mile) warranty, plus twelve year anti-corrosion cover and three year paintwork warranty.