Honda Unveils "Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept" at The 2007 Geneva Motorshow

GENEVA, Switzerland, March 6, 2007–Honda has unveiled a concept model which represents its interpretation of how a future hybrid model might appear. Honda Small Hybrid Sports Concept, a design study model, demonstrates a unique fusion of advanced environmental technology, exciting styling and fun-to-drive characteristics. This is its world premiere for the model, which has been penned by the design studio at Honda R&D Europe based in Offenbach, Germany. The Small Hybrid Sports Concept is conceived around a front-wheel drive, small car platform and is powered by a Honda IMA 4-cylinder petrol/electric hybrid system driving through a CVT transmission. It explores the idea that a car can have a low environmental impact yet still deliver all the driving enjoyment expected of a compact sports car.

The aerodynamic design is characterised by curvaceous and contoured surfaces contrasting with sharp “folded” edges. The short front and rear overhangs, together with wheelarches that wrap tightly around large wheels, further enhance the dramatic looks of this sports coupe. An accentuated, arrow-like nose features a full width air intake with Civic family overtones. This sweeps forward into a distinct protruding centre section complete with ‘H’ logo.

The Concept model’s fluid lines are created by a steeply raked windscreen which extends back above the occupants’ heads where it meets a one piece glass roof. This in turn flows rearwards to give the car its fastback styling, terminating in a distinctive and futuristic 3D floating glass design – a concave element which forms an additional vertical window. At its base, further distinction is provided by a ‘floating’ LED tail light unit that stretches across the full width of the car. At its centre, the glass panel extends downwards and contains an illuminated ‘Small Hybrid Sports’ name plate.

The Hybrid Sports Concept is equipped with 165/60 section tyres mounted on 20-inch distinctive rims. Their dimension supports low rolling resistance without compromising sporty driving.

Compact external dimensions lend themselves to nimble, agile performance on the road and help to ensure a good power to weight ratio. 4000 mm in length, 1270 mm tall and 1760 mm wide, and the 2350 mm wheelbase, in conjunction with a sports suspension, delivers stable and predictable handling characteristics.

The body is particularly aerodynamically efficient and compact. Rear-facing digital cameras take the place of conventional door mirrors.

Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia Revealed

The Cayenne S is a sporting all-round performer. Compare to the “regular” version of the Cayenne S. the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia has been modified on a number of points enhancing both safety and the car's racing performance.

The Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia is a car tailored specifically to the requirements of long distance rally racing. The power unit of the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia has been adopted from regular road version of the Cayenne S with hardly any changes. Output of this 4.8-liter natural aspiration V8 with direct gasoline injection remains 385 bhp (283kW) at 6200 rpm. VarioCam plus valve management ensures a smooth and consistent surge of power throughout the entire speed range. Despite the increase in power over the previous Cayenne generation, the new 4.8-liter reduces fuel consumption by approximately 15%, giving the Cayenne S a significantly longer cruising range than before – obviously a big advantage in a long distant rally. In fact, the engine is also able to run on a mixture of a gasoline and ethanol, with up to 25% of the latter. A sports exhaust system reduced for minimum weight creates a particluarly powerful and muscular sound. Like all other models in the Cayenne range, the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia also comes with Porsche Traction Management (PTM) permanent all wheel drive. In it's basic mode, PTM feeds 62% of the engine torque to the rear wheels and 38% to the front.Then a multiple-plate clutch controlled electonically is able to vary the distribution of power as a function of driving conditions, feeding as much as 100% of the engine's power completely to the front or rear, if necessary. A transverse lock fitted additionally in the Cayenne S Transsyberia serves to enhance offroad driving qualities to an even higher standard (and is also available in the regular production model as part of an optional Offroad Technology Package). Reinforce and extra large underfloor protection panels made of aluminum and an additional cover made of stanless steel for the exhaust tailpipes protect from damage.

Particularly in heavy terrain, Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC), interacting with air suspension and Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) enhances traction to an even higher standard. And should the driver activate the low-range mode on the six-speed automatic transmission, PDCC will automatically switch over to the offroad mode. Thus the system allows maximum articulation of the axles. In the Special Offroad Mode provided by the air suspension, the maximum depth when crossing rivers and streams etc. is approximately 75cm. Ans using the flexible air filter snorkel, the air intake has been moved up even further to the roof of the vehicle, ensuring that the front wave typical when crossing water is not able to reach, let alone enter, the intake manifold.

The wheels and suspension of the cayenne have also been modified for th extreme, long term demands of the rough tracks and rocky surfaces. As an example, the doublearm front axle comes with reinforced track control arms. The usual high-speed tyres fitted in the regular model are replaced by special offroad tyres measuring 255/55 R 18 T. The tyres themselves are fitted on 18inch “Cayenne S II” light-alloy wheels and the rim hubs are finished in orange, like on the Porsche 911 GT3 RS.

To offer both driver and passenger even better protection, the Cayenne S Transsyberia comes with a safety cage bolted on to the passenger cell that follow the rules and requirements of the FIA Motorsport Authority, with the driver also being protected by an airbag for extra safety. To set off the extra weight of the safety cage and rally equipment, and to further lower the vehicle's centre of gravity, the rear seat bench, interior body panels and cound proofing material have all been removed from the car. Both the driver and front passenger enjoy the benefits of lightweight sports seats.

Extra large air intake scoops testify to the car's superior power and performance. On the tailgate the Cayenne S Transsyberia boasts a roof spoiler with a double-wing profile fitted in position to provide even greater stability at high speeds. The front and rear air dams, in turn, are finished in stainless steel, and orange coloured wheels give the Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia a portive look. At the side this special rally model proudly boasts orange-coloured stripes bearing the name “Cayenne S Transsyberia 2007” in a look similar to that of the Porsche 911 GT3 RS. The Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia is available exclusively in 2 special colour schemes – either Basalt Balck Metallic or Chrystal Silver Metallic. And matching the model designation at the sides as well as the wheel rims, contrasting elements such as exterior mirrors, the rear wing or the additional headlights are all finished in orange. Four additional headlights are fitted on the roof and to successfully master particularly difficult and demanding terrain, as well as to salvage other vehicles, the Cayenne S Transsyberia comes with a winch easy to fit if necessary.

The Porsche Cayenne S Transsyberia comes as standard with a navigation unit enabling the team to plan their routes also off the beaton track. The glove compartment is replaced on this special model by a Tripmaster computer. The regular foot operated brake is replaced by a hand brake enabling the driver to understeer the vehicle intentionally in a tight bend. The luggage compartment also comes with two 20 liter reserve cans, and two transport boxes for tools.

VW releases Tiguan minisite ahead of Frankfurt launch

Volkswagen has launched a microsite for its all-new Tiguan crossover, months ahead of the compact SUV's world debut in September at the Frankfurt motor show.

The site features actual driving scenes and downloadable features. VW says the microsite will permit prospective buyers to follow the Tiguan's development, from showcar to production. In June, users will be able to take a virtual test-drive and operate a configurator to sample different trim and performance levels.

Visitors to the site can register for regular updates on the Tiguan, view an exclusive Web premiere closer to its launch and enter a competition draw for tickets to the Frankfurt motor show. More information will be revealed in the months leading up to the vehicle's official introduction.

The Tiguan made its first public appearance last year as a concept at the Los Angeles auto show. The Tiguan goes into production in November but won't be available in Australian showrooms until 2008 (more here).

2007 Acura MDX

Vehicle OverviewAcura introduced its MDX as a 2001 model. Before long, the midsize sport utility vehicle from Honda's luxury division began to tally impressive sales totals. Shoppers even faced waiting lists for the car-based seven-passenger MDX, which is loaded with luxury features. For 2007, the MDX has been redesigned, gaining more horsepower and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, as well as numerous options.The MDX competes against such rivals as the BMW X5, Lexus RX 350 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class. It features Bluetooth connectivity, variable power-assist steering, a tire pressure monitoring system and a 5,000-pound tow rating for 2007.ExteriorWith the 2007 redesign, Acura went for a more integrated look in the MDX's rear quarters. No longer does the rear glass area look tacked on. Instead, conventional A-, B- and C-pillars are in place, and the overall look is more similar to BMW's X SUVs than Lexus models.The grille is more pronounced, with two planes of metal framing the Acura caliper badge. Side views show a pronounced, almost fender-like arch over the wheel wells. At the rear, there is an integrated bumper and an overall smooth, chiseled appearance.The MDX comes with 18-inch wheels and high-intensity-discharge low-beam headlights. A Sport Package adds auto-leveling xenon headlights and a different wheel design.InteriorThe MDX carries seven people and has a 10-way power driver's seat that can remember settings for two drivers. Front passengers have to make do with eight-way adjustment. There are also standard heated front seats, automatic three-zone climate control and a cargo space that can be configured six ways depending on how the seats are folded.An Entertainment Package includes a rear DVD entertainment system with wireless headphones and remote, a 110-volt power outlet in the center console, second-row heated outboard seats and a remote-operated power tailgate.The Technology Package includes Acura's voice-recognition navigation system, real-time traffic information and a GPS-linked, solar-sensing automatic climate control system.The Sport Package adds leather seating surfaces and metallic accents to various trim pieces.Under the HoodThe 2007 MDX gets a bigger engine that produces more power and torque. The 3.7-liter V-6 turns out 300 horsepower and 275 pounds-feet of torque, up from 253 hp and 250 pounds-feet of torque in the previous model. The engine is mated to a five-speed automatic with sequential manual shifting. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is standard. The Sport Package adds an active damper system.SafetyDual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all three rows of seats are standard. For 2007, both the driver and front passenger get knee airbags and active head restraints. All-disc antilock brakes are installed.

New Cab at New York?

Kia Motors America Partners With the Design Trust for Public Space to Celebrate the Centennial of the Modern-Day Taxi

In honor of the 100th anniversary of the modern-day taxi in New York City, the all-new Kia Rondo crossover is among the vehicles to be reinvented into an iconic yellow cab, as part of Taxi '07, a project of the Design Trust for Public Space. This new collaborative process is intended to engage design professionals in fundamental civic planning.

Automakers were challenged to incorporate practical solutions into their taxi prototypes, addressing areas such as partitions that incorporate passenger services, roof lights with improved legibility, integrated child safety seats, wheelchair accessibility and fuel efficiency.

The all-new Kia Rondo, which offers innovative design, packaging and driving dynamics, provides both drivers and passengers with a spacious, comfortable and safe ride while occupying a small footprint - an ideal combination for New York City streets. Not only is Rondo's footprint smaller than the Ford Crown Victoria, NYC's leading taxi, it is also more fuel-efficient.

Kia Motors America (KMA) collaborated with a consortium of NYC-based design firms led by Smart Design to build two Rondo taxi prototypes. Both vehicles were built to be safer, more accessible and more efficient than a conventional cab. The design solutions developed by Smart Design, along with Antenna Design and Birsel + Seck, have greatly improved the user experience for both the passengers and driver. Antenna Design worked to create a more legible taxi roof light, which quickly communicates the cab's availability status in a variety of lighting situations. Smart Design with Birsel + Seck designed an interior space that keeps the driver's belongings organized and accessible, and installed an L-shaped partition to protect the driver while creating a more open social environment for the passengers. A Bruno motorized front passenger seat for those with limited mobility as well as an integrated, fold-down child seat were added for extra passenger accessibility, comfort and safety.

saurce: Worldcarfans

2007 BMW 3 Series Convertible

The 2007 BMW 3 Series Convertible is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury convertible, available in two trims, the 328i and the 335i.

Upon introduction, the 328i is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 230-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. The 335i is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, I6, 300-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2007 BMW 3 Series Convertible is redesigned for 2007.

2nd Generation Toyota Vios in Malaysia?

Rumour is that the new 2nd generation Toyota VIOS on our market will also offer a 1.3 liter version priced somewhere between the Perodua Myvi and the VIOS 1.5 liter, about 65k or so, which will definitely prove to be a Proton killer. But then again, rumours and word of mouth shall remain just that, just rumours, until any official announcement or press release. There are plenty of rumours going around of so-called pending new models to be released soon, they usually center around the Nissan Note and the Toyota Ractic being offered at impossible RM4x,xxx price ranges.


After New VIOS launched in Thailand on 9 March 2007. The rumors already arrived Malaysia for the same reason. Is it will be true just wait and see unless there is official announcement or press confrence nothing can be confirm.

Pix credit to Paultan

New Produa Model car will be launch?

Is this is the new model of Produa after Myvi. This picture I received from my officemate via email. The Produa seems to be launch new model after Myvi SE. The rumors already heard that this model will be launch around May or end April. The engine is about 1000cc with fuel injection system. Not much info for this car right now and for more info please check this lastest model once it launch next month.