Nissan Micra DIG-S

Nissan Micra DIG-S. Powering the newest version of the popular Nissan Micra city car � the DIG-S � this advanced petrol engine produces just 95 g CO2/km and underlines Nissan�s leadership in both zero and low emissions mobility.
A direct injection unit with a supercharger � hence the car�s name: Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger (DIG-S) � the engine is the embodiment of Nissan�s PURE DRIVE strategy, delivering sparkling performance, frugal economy and exceptionally low emissions.

Technical innovation has been packed into the engine. The Nissan DIG-S uses the Miller cycle and direct petrol injection to raise the compression ratio to 13 to 1 for greater combustion efficiency and a supercharger for instant throttle response and added power. As well as delivering ultra low CO2 emissions, the lightweight, low-friction 1,198cc three-cylinder unit produces the power expected from a conventional 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine.
Nissan Micra�s city car credentials have been honed over decades of class leading models. Bristling with new technologies and based on a brand new platform, Europe-bound examples of the fourth generation Nissan Micra are built at an entirely new facility in India. It is also built in China, Mexico and Thailand and is sold in 160 countries around the world.
The new Nissan Micra DIG-S is available in one body five-door body style, three trim levels � Visia, Acenta and Tekna � and with a choice of two petrol engines. As well as the DIG-S, there�s a normally aspirated version of the 1.2-litre engine, developing 59kW (80PS).

By minimising heat, friction and pumping losses as much a possible, Nissan�s engineers have created an engine that sets the standard for the rest of the industry. Its three-cylinder configuration gives many benefits including less weight and further reductions in friction loss, thanks to having fewer moving parts. Further gains are made thanks to the adoption of advanced engine management systems with Start/Stop and energy regeneration.
The Direct Injection Gasoline-Supercharger (DIG-S) engine produces 72kW (98PS) and 142Nm, while CO2 emissions are 95 g/km for the manual version and 115 g/km for the CVT version. Maximum speed is 180km/h for manual. Combined cycle fuel economy figures for the manual Visia version is 4.1 l/100kmh *.
In common with industry practice, these headline figures refer to the entry-level version � Visia � as higher levels of equipment found in plusher models mean extra weight which affects emissions performance. But such is the efficiency of the unit that the most popular version, Acenta, also promises an outstanding CO2 figure: just 99 g/km in manual form.
This remarkable engine makes sub 100 g/km emissions performance easily accessible while low cost of ownership make it a serious alternative to a comparable diesel� with the added bonus of greater refinement. Its first appearance powering the new Nissan Micra makes for an irresistible combination.

2011 Mercedes-Benz Viano Vision Pearl Concept

The design concept is takes its inspiration from that of modern sporting yachts, with the theme of travel as an experience. The onboard W-LAN connectivity caters for the needs of modern, mobile individuals. For ther exterior design, Mercedes-Benz has for the first time in the van sector used the paint finish �magno pearl grey�, a matt, pebble-grey colour. The stylistically revised front end of the Viano with its integrated LED daytime running lamps gives the van a more sporty, powerful appearance

The interior of the Viano Vision Pearl is not so much a functional space for passenger transport, but rather a living space. The name Vision Pearl emphasises both the design concept and the repositioning of the Viano: the Viano of the future is the perfect travelling companion, and in this version it conveys a modern, maritime theme.
The Viano Vision Pearl is rounded off by the Bang & Olufsen sound system. Mercedes-Benz has worked together with this world-renowned manufacturer of audio systems since 2009, and integrates the high-end sound systems into passenger cars such as the S-Class. Thanks to the very high output of 1320 watts (the S-Class has 1200 watts) and 18 integrated, specially hand-built loudspeakers, the vehicle occupants are treated to an outstanding listening experience. The Viano Vision Pearl is stylishly discreet where the outside world is concerned: as the loudspeakers are located in their own housings, very little sound volume escapes to the outside.

Chevrolet Camaro ZL1

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 debuted at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show. It is the highest-performing Camaro and the most technically advanced car ever developed in its class. The new ZL1 continues the momentum of Camaro, propelling it into an entirely new realm of leading-edge performance technology. It is planned to launch at the beginning of 2012.

Motivated by a supercharged V-8 engine producing an estimated 550 horsepower (410 kW), the Camaro ZL1 will be the fastest Camaro ever offered by Chevrolet. And more than just power, the ZL1 features technologically advanced and highly developed chassis and suspension systems that help it deliver balanced, track-ready handling and braking power to complement its high engine output. Rigorous development of the ZL1 is ongoing, and official estimates of the car�s capabilities will be released later in 2011, as testing nears completion.
�Camaro ZL1 is about high-tech performance and design, and is a type of car no one has ever brought to this segment previously,� said Rick Scheidt, vice president of Chevrolet marketing. �It�s the most technically advanced Camaro ever, so we�ve chosen a name from the most elite and exclusive Camaro in history.�
The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminum racing engine of the same name, which was developed in the late 1960s and installed into a handful of regular-production 1969 Camaros. Only 69 were built with the engine, but they�ve achieved mythical status among enthusiasts, as they represented the pinnacle in Camaro performance � until now. The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to be a major leap forward for the Camaro, bringing a new level of performance capability to the segment.

The central goal of the car�s development was creating something new � a Camaro intended to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and excellent driving dynamics on the street. To achieve that goal, engineers evolved many of the existing Camaro�s systems, as well as incorporated new technologies such as electric power steering and Magnetic Ride Control, the world�s fastest-reacting suspension system.
Camaro ZL1�s design communicates and supports its performance mission. Rather than using decorative elements, ZL1 is visually differentiated from other current Camaro models with elements vital to the car�s elevated capabilities.
�Everything about the ZL1�s design is directly related to its technology and serious performance, especially aerodynamics,� said Ed Welburn, vice president, Global Design. �Our designers� goal was to execute that function-oriented design with beautifully sculpted forms, creating an imposing, powerful persona. Function becomes the aesthetic. The intent is a car that delivers on the attitude it projects.�
Major elements of the ZL1�s design are a new front fascia and hood with air extractors, designed in tandem to create aerodynamic downforce to aid handling. The car�s hood includes a signature center section constructed of carbon fiber and rendered in satin black finish. New rocker panels, wide tires, 20-inch wheels and exhaust tips portray the car�s handling and power.
The ZL1 badge appears on the grille, hood and the brake calipers, all key areas portraying the technology within.
Tech overview.
Supporting the dynamic track and street performance of the ZL1 is the LSA 6.2L supercharged engine, which will produce an estimated 550 horsepower (410kW) and 550 lb.-ft. of torque (677 Nm), with specific features for the Camaro. Built on GM�s legendary all-aluminum, small-block V-8 architecture, the LSA features an intercooled supercharger system, premium heat-resistant aluminum-alloy cylinder heads and other details designed to ensure its exceptional performance is delivered with smoothness and refinement. Components and design elements that contribute to the LSA�s performance include:
� Balanced, lightweight reciprocating assembly
� High-strength hypereutectic pistons
� Sixth-generation Eaton supercharger with four-lobe rotors
� Piston oil squirters.
Because the Camaro ZL1 uses electric power steering, the engine does not incorporate a conventional hydraulic power steering pump on its accessory drive system. This enhances performance, because no engine power is used to turn a steering pump pulley.
Camaro ZL1 is a complete high-performance car, not just a Camaro with more power. Key technical highlights include:
Transmission � The high-performance Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual is matched with the LSA engine. It is the �MG9� version of the transmission, with a higher torque capacity. It is used with a dual-mass flywheel and twin-disc clutch for easy operation and shift smoothness. A new, shorter-throw shifter actuates the gear changes.
Exhaust � ZL1 is equipped with a dual-mode exhaust system, which alters the sound level and character in response to engine rpm. First used on the legendary Corvette, and specifically tuned for Camaro ZL1, the dual-mode exhaust will give the car a signature sound.
Drivetrain � It is revised with a stronger driveshaft and rear axle system, featuring a larger and stronger cast iron differential housing, stronger axles and heavy-duty limited-slip differential. This patent-pending system is designed to ensure that ZL1�s tremendous power is delivered smoothly to the ground.
Suspension � The suspension features completely revised tuning and the inclusion of segment-exclusive Magnetic Ride Control. ZL1�s Magnetic Ride system will include driver selectable modes (Tour and Sport) tailored for the preferred style of driving. It uses advanced magneto-rheological science to produce shock damping with the highest level of precision, enabling body control optimized for excellent performance in everyday driving as well as track situations. This technology appears on only a small roster of some of the world�s finest performance cars. Other chassis elements are redesigned to support the car�s high-performance limits. Rear stabilizer bars have drop links repositioned outboard of the control arms. This makes the bars more effective in controlling body roll in turns, with crisp response to driver commands.
Brakes and Steering � Camaro ZL1 features an advanced track-capable braking system, developed in conjunction with experts from Brembo. The large 14.6-inch (370 mm) two-piece front rotors have six-piston calipers; the 14.4-inch (365 mm) rear rotors have four-piston calipers. ZL1 marks the entry of a new electric power steering system to Camaro. It is being developed to ensure precise control and feedback to the driver, with greater variability of effort for high-performance driving.
Exterior � ZL1�s signature from the front is the redesigned fascia and aluminum hood with a raised, carbon fiber insert. The fascia includes a front splitter and new vertical fog lamps. The fog lamp area includes air intakes designed for brake cooling. The hood features front-mounted air extractors that direct air precisely over the car. Visually, this center section, in satin black carbon fiber, communicates the car�s high-performance intent as a visual contrast to the car�s exterior color. Functionally, the air extractor is a key in connecting airflow closely to the bodywork, creating aerodynamic downforce. The carbon fiber center section reduces the mass of the hood. High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps and fog lamps are standard. The rear of the car includes a diffuser and spoiler, also functional elements that enhance the car�s aerodynamics.
Wheels and Tires � New-design, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels, which are lighter than the 20-inch wheels used on the Camaro SS, are used with new Goodyear Supercar F2 ties developed specifically for the ZL1.
Interior � ZL1 is tailored for high-performance driving. The front seats feature microfiber suede inserts. Other enhancements include a redesigned steering wheel, alloy pedals, Head-Up Display with unique performance readouts and the �four-pack� auxiliary gauge system featuring a boost readout.
Production details.
All of the Camaro exterior colors will be offered with the ZL1, but black is the only interior color. The unique exterior features are complemented with a black center section on the hood. Inside, the Camaro ZL1 has heated leather seats with microfiber inserts and ZL1 logos embroidered on the front headrests. Microfiber suede is repeated as an accent on the instrument panel, adding a richer look to the interior. The ZL1 will include the same content as the current 2SS package and include the following new or unique features:
� Six-way power driver and passenger seats
� Unique instrument panel and door panel inserts; and ZL1-logo sill plates
� Steering wheel audio controls with Bluetooth capability
� Wireless PDIM and USB-port
� Boston Acoustics premium audio system
� Rear parking assist
� Rear camera system (displayed in the inside rearview mirror).
Engineers have already driven Camaro ZL1 prototypes extensively at demanding road courses in the U.S. and Germany, with final testing being completed through the balance of 2011.

BMW 503 Coupe

The BMW 503 is a two door 2+2 seater sports car unveiled by BMW at the 1955 Frankfurt Motor Show. Production got under way during the summer of 1956, and by 1959, when the BMW 503 was withdrawn, 413 had been built, including 139 cabriolets.
Design

The car was styled by the entrepreneurial auto-designer, Albrecht von Goertz, based on preliminary drafts prepared by Kurt Bredschneider. It was originally intended to feature a flamboyant shape incorporating rounded mudguards which would have emphasized its kinship with the BMW 502 sedan, but regulations concerning matters such as light positioning rendered such a form impractical. In retrospect, the more square cornered look of the car as it emerged with fully integrated wings may have been more in tune with future styling trends than the original proposal.
Technical
The BMW 503 incorporated the 3168 cc light metal V8 engine from the 502 which in this application delivered a claimed power output of 140 brake horsepower (100 kW) and acceleration from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 13 seconds along with a top speed of about 115 miles per hour (185 km/h). The four speed manual transmission was unchanged from that used in the 502, and was originally mounted remotely from both the engine and the rear axle, as on the 502. In September 1957, the drivetrain was redesigned, with the transmission being bolted directly to the engine, as with the 507, and with the shifter being relocated from the steering column to the floor.

2012 Toyota Camry Solara

You'll appreciate Solara's precise handling and effortless ride. And with the 2012 Toyota Camry Solara convertible, you'll look great doing it, wherever you go. Both the Solara and the Solara convertible are available in SE and SLE V-6 models, making the combinations virtually limitless.

The 2012 Toyota Camry Solara is available as a midsize coupe that seats 5 or convertible that seats 4. Both Solara styles are available in three models, SE, Sport and SLE. The fuel economy ratings of the Toyota Solara model powered by a four cylinder engine are 21 miles per gallon on city streets and 31 miles per gallon highway, while that of the V6 engine powered model are 18 miles per gallon on city streets and 26 miles per gallon highway for the coupe and 18 miles per gallon on city streets and 27 miles per gallon for the convertible highway.

All 2012 Solara models are equipped with air conditioning, powered windows/locks/mirrors, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 music system, leather seats, 17 inch tires, a cruise control system and a sun roof.

The 2012 "Toyota Camry" is the best car for you if you want the all-new version of a family-car icon.

The 2012 Toyota Camry will be the first fully redesigned Camry since model-year 2007. The redesigned 2012 model kicks off the seventh design generation of the Camry, a car that�s parlayed deceptively ordinary design into extraordinarily wide appeal.

Should you wait for the 2012 Toyota Camry or buy a 2011 Toyota Camry? Waiting for the 2012 Camry means your car�s styling will look current for several years, and it�ll be worth more at resale than the outgoing 2011 Camry. The 2011 Camry still is an outstanding family sedan. : For a preview of the 2012 Toyota Camry styling, look to themes evident on the Toyota Venza and the re-engineered 2011 Toyota Avalon. Venza is Toyota�s new-age crossover wagon. Avalon is essentially a stretched version of the Camry sedan. Both have design roots in Toyota�s midsize-car architecture. Look for the 2012 Camry to get some trendy �light-pipe� detail illumination front and rear. The "2012 Camry" probably will be slightly wider than the outgoing model. Toyota is, however, apt to stretch the 2012 Camry�s wheelbase. Camry is honed to achieve an impressive level of refinement. The 2012 Camry will retain front-wheel drive, which concentrates the mass of the engine and transmission in the nose of the car.

Front-wheel drive seldom matches the handling balance of rear-wheel drive. But Camry�s aim is a predictable, easy-to-drive nature. Under the hood, expect Toyota to replace the outgoing Camry�s 169-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder with the notably stronger 2.7-liter four already available in the Venza; there, it�s rated at 182 horsepower. The possibility of a 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid is an open question. All 2012 Camrys will come equipped with Toyota�s latest safety features. Also in place for the 2012 Camry will be Toyota�s new Star Safety System. Features: Expect the 2012 Toyota Camry to continue with the sort of model range that�s so effectively penetrated most every layer of the midsize-car firmament. It should again begin with an equivalent of the 2011 Camry�s CE model, which Toyota occasionally refers to as the �Standard� or �base� Camry.

Standard features on every" 2012 Toyota Camry" will include air conditioning, height-adjustable driver�s seat, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, cruise control, and power windows, locks, and mirrors. That sort of connectivity is increasingly standard in Camry�s competitive set and has been available but not standard on all Camry models.

2012 Toyota Camry Prices
Pricing for the 2012 Toyota Camry won�t be announced until shortly before the car goes on sale, but a base price range of around $20,300-$29,900 is almost guaranteed. For 2011 Toyota cars, that fee is $750. In general, the 2012 Camry CE model should start around $21,400 with automatic transmission. Estimated base price for the 2012 Toyota Camry LE with the four-cylinder engine is around $22,000 with manual transmission, around $23,000 with automatic. The 2012 Camry LE with the V-6 engine would likely be priced from around $25,700 and come only with automatic transmission.

Toyota has wisely enabled buyers to purchase the top-line Camry model with the four-cylinder engine. That ought to continue, with the 2012 Camry XLE starting around $27,000. Leather upholstery as a standard features has been exclusive to the XLE V-6 Camry. If a gas-electric model is again part of the lineup, look for 2012 Toyota Camry Hybrid prices to start around $27,500.

The 2011 Camry with both the 169- and 179-horsepower versions of the four-cylinder engine was among the highest-mileage midsize cars, with EPA ratings of 22/33 mpg (city/highway) for manual transmission, 22/32 with the automatic.
Even if Toyota gives the 2012 Camry the 2.7-liter four-cylinder, these ratings should hold or even climb by a mile-per-gallon or two. In turn, expect the 2012 Toyota Camry with the 3.5-liter V-6 to benefit from similar upgrades given the latest versions of this engine. Toyota continues to use the 2011 Camry Hybrid�s powertrain in the $35,000 Lexus HS250h, which was introduced for model-year 2010 and is advertised as America�s first hybrid-only luxury car. If a 2012 Camry Hybrid returns with a similar setup, look for EPA ratings of at least 33/34 mpg