FLIR also says its camera is based on the same technology used by the military to provide a 36° field-of-view of the road ahead. Let’s wait for CES to find out more about this innovating system.

We will be able to see the new SRX in production form at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, and while automakers often throw the term “all-new” around, in this case it really applies. The new SRX is very different although many of the greasy bits are shared with other GM vehicles.

A big difference going from the Provoq concept to the production SRX is the powertrain. The old model used a Volt based E-Flex powertrain with a fuel cell range extender. You can read the press release to find out more details.

PRESS RELEASE

2010 CADILLAC SRX: A DISTINCTIVE ALTERNATIVE FOR TODAY’S LUXURY CROSSOVER CONSUMER

DETROIT – Cadillac unveiled the next-generation 2010 SRX Crossover today, featuring a completely new design and more-efficient, high-technology engine choices. The new SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover coming to the North American International Auto Show next week.

“The all-new SRX is a fresh and compelling crossover aimed squarely at the priorities of luxury buyers,” said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. “With new technologies for increased efficiency and safety, the redesigned 2010 SRX Crossover focuses on both the emotional and pragmatic sides of the luxury consumer.”

The 2010 SRX is designed for efficient performance, including the choice of two high-tech six-cylinder engines that are new to Cadillac – the smallest-displacement engines it offers in North America. A new, 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine is standard and a new, 2.8L turbocharged V-6 is optional. Both engines employ technology that helps produce strong performance that is typical of larger-displacement engines. Direct injection enables a 25-percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. Fuel economy in the mid-20s on the highway is expected, but testing isn’t complete.

Performance and safety are enhanced by an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. The AWD system includes an advanced electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) that distributes torque as needed from side to side along the rear axle, as well as from the front to rear axle. The pre-emptive, active-on-demand system provides an extra measure of capability in wet or icy conditions.

The 2010 SRX rides on a wide track that was designed to deliver a nimble, responsive driving experience. It seats five, with generous occupant and cargo room, and can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg).

Distinctive design and craftsmanship

“Cadillac is known for bold design. The 2010 SRX Crossover builds on that reputation,” said Clay Dean, Cadillac global design director. “As with the 2008 CTS, we advanced our Art and Science design to create a crossover for style-conscious customers. The exterior features a dramatic diving gesture on the body side to impart the feeling of movement, even at rest.”

A multi-piece shield grille and Cadillac’s iconic vertical headlamps – with light pipe technology and available adaptive forward lighting – are the face of the SRX. They blend into a tightly wrapped, sweeping body that tapers downward at the rear, giving the vehicle a sporty profile, Dean said.

The SRX features a wide stance, minimal overhang and wheels pushed to corners. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels are offered. A bold accent line dives across the body side and culminates at a chrome front fender vent that incorporates a side marker lamp. An integrated spoiler on the rearward edge of the roof extends the sleek lines and improves aerodynamics.

“Inside the new SRX, technical precision blends with old-world craftsmanship,” Dean said. “Hand-cut-and-sewn coverings on the instrument panel and ambient lighting details convey a finely tailored cabin.”

An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems, while the navigation system rises from the center of the instrument panel. A signature example of the SRX’s attention to detail is the Cadillac script logos in the front door sill plates that illuminate when the doors are opened.

Advanced technology and entertainment systems

The 2010 SRX features numerous advanced electronic systems. Highlights include a “pop-up” navigation screen with three-dimensional imaging; adaptive forward lighting that swivels the headlamps in synch with vehicle steering; power liftgate with adjustable height setting; integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen system for rear entertainment.

Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar’s turn-by-turn navigation service for buyers who do not select the car’s navigation system option.

Efficient performance

The SRX is powered by a new, fuel-efficient direct injected 3.0L V-6 that delivers an estimated 260 horsepower (193 kW) and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Direct injection results in more power, better fuel economy and lower emissions, all will a smaller-displacement package. As a result, the new V-6 engine is expected to raise the SRX’s standard power rating by 5 horsepower, while achieving an estimated 1 0-15-percent fuel economy improvement.

The 3.0L direct injection V-6 is a smaller-displacement version of the 3.6L, direct injection engine featured in the CTS sport sedan and named one of the world’s 10 Best Engines for 2009 by Ward’s Automotive. Along with direct injection technology, the 3.0L engine employs variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission helps save fuel by lowering the engine’s rpm at constant highway speeds, while manual shift control enables greater driver interaction when desired. The new SRX includes a driver-selectable “eco mode” that alters transmission shift points to maximize fuel economy.

“The 2010 SRX will deliver excellent, balanced driving dynamics in all types of weather,” said Bob Reuter, global vehicle chief engineer. “The all-wheel-drive system with electronic limited slip effectively transfers torque not only from front to rear, but also along the rear axle. This system sets a new benchmark for all all-wheel-drive systems, giving the driver control and confidence on any road surface.”

Traction control is taken a step further on AWD models with the rear eLSD. In icy or wet conditions, the system can transfer up to 100 percent of torque to the wheel that has more grip. The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high-speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the vehicle more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

The suspension includes a real-time damping system in conjunction with AWD that adjusts shock damping rates in response to road conditions for a smooth ride quality.

Enhanced safety

SRX’s safety features are designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash. A strong body structure and chassis that absorbs crash energy is complemented by the use of martensitic steel in the fully enclosed rocker sections. Martensitic steel is one of the strongest available and its use in the rockers helps protect against intrusion during a side-impact crash, while also maintaining the structure during front and rear crashes.

Additional safety features include standard head curtain side air bags, standard front seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags, front safety belts with dual pretensioners and load limiters, rollover mitigation sensors, a pedal release system, trailer stability assist and OnStar.

The SRX was also designed to meet European pedestrian protection standards; and the front bumper is positioned for greater compatibility with car bumpers.

Production begins in the second quarter of 2009, with dealer availability shortly thereafter.

PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

Models:
2010 Cadillac SRX

Body style / driveline:
five-door, 5-passenger front engine transaxle; front-wheel-drive/all-wheel-drive mid-luxury crossover vehicle

Construction:
steel body frame integral; galvanized steel front fenders, hood, roof, door panels, one-piece bodyside outer panel, and liftgate

EPA vehicle class:
sport utility vehicle

Manufacturing location:
Ramos Arizpe, Mexico

Key competitors:
Lexus RX; Acura MDX; BWW X3 and X5

Engines

3.0L DOHC V-6 direct injection, variable valve timing, four valves per cylinder
2.8L DOHC Turbo V-6, four valves per cylinder

Displacement (cu in / cc):
182 cu in / 2986 cc
170 cu in / 2792 cc

Bore x stroke (in / mm):
3.50 x 3.16 in / 89 x 80.3
3.50 x 2.94 in / 89 x 74.8

Block material: aluminum
Cylinder head material: aluminum

Valvetrain: DOHC, 4 valves per cylinder

Ignition system:
coil-near-plug
pencil Coil

Fuel Delivery:
high-pressure direct injection
PFI returnless

Compression ratio:
11.7:1
9.5:1

Horsepower (hp / kw @ rpm):
260 / 193 @ 6950 (est)
300 / 224 @ 5500 (est)

Torque (lb-ft / Nm @ rpm):
221 / 300 @ 5600 (est)
295 / 400 @ 1850 (est)

Recommended fuel:
regular unleaded; E85 capable
premium unleaded

Max engine speed (fuel cut-off):
7100
6500

Emissions Controls:
dual close-coupled catalysts and single underfloor catalyst; variable valve timing, evaporative system
dual close-coupled catalysts

Fuel economy (city / hwy)
TBD
TBD

Transmissions

6T70 Hydra-Matic six-speed transverse, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transmission
AF40 Aisin Warner six-speed transverse, electronically controlled, automatic overdrive transmission

Chassis and Suspension

Front suspension:
independent, strut-type, specifically tuned coil springs, direct-acting stabilizer bar (hollow); hydraulic ride bushings

Rear suspension:
linked H-arm, hollow stabilizer bar; real-time damping available

Traction control:
all-speed using engine torque reduction and brake intervention

Steering type:
specifically calibrated hydraulic-power-assisted rack-and-pinion for V-6 models

Steering wheel turns, lock-to-lock
2.84
Turning circle, curb-to-curb (ft / M):
40.3 / 12.2

Steering ratio:
16.5:1

Brakes

Four-wheel power-asssited disc with ABS (and ESC); vented front and rear rotors; aluminum calipers front and rear (two-piston front calipers, single-piston rear calipers)

Brake rotor diameter – front (in / mm):
13.6 / 345 x 1.2 / 30

Brake rotor diameter – rear (in / mm):
12.4 / 315 x 0.9 / 23

Total swept area (cu cc):
front: 179.4
rear: 72

Wheels and Tires

Wheel size and type:
18-inch aluminum (std on all models)
20-inch aluminum (opt on all models)

Tires:
P235/65R18 AL3
P235/55R20 AL3 or 235/55R20 HW4

Exterior Dimensions

Overall length (in / mm): 190.2 / 4833
Overall width (in / mm): 75.1 / 1910
Overall height (in / mm): 65.6 / 1668
Wheelbase (in / mm): 110.5 / 2807
Front track (in / mm): 64.0 / 1626
Rear track (in / mm): 63.7 / 1620

Interior Dimensions

Seating Capacity (front / rear): 2 / 3

Headroom (in / mm):
front: 39.7 / 1009
rear: 38.4 / 976

Legroom (in / mm):
front: 41.2 / 1047
rear: 36.3 / 923

Shoulder room (in / mm):
front: 58.3 / 1481
rear: 56.2 / 1430

Hip room (in / mm):
front: 55.4 / 1408
rear: 54.7 / 1391

EPA passenger volume (cu ft / L) : 100.6 / 2848.6
EPA interior volume (cu ft / L): 129.8 / 3675.5
Cargo volume behind first-row seats (cu ft / L): 61.18 / 1732.4
Cargo volume behind second-row seats (cu ft / L): 29.20 / 826.8

Capacities

Trailer towing maximum (lb / kg):
3.0L: 2500 / 1136 (without towing package)
3.0L: 3500 / 1590 (with towing package)
2.8L: 3500 / 1590 (with towing package)

Maximum tongue weight (lb / kg): 350 / 158

Fuel tank (gal / L): 21 / 79.5

Cooling system (qt / L):
3.0L: 12.4 /11.7
2.8L: 12.6 /11.9

The top version of the new Mustang is propelled by a V8 supercharged engine that develops no less than 540 HP and approx. 690 Nm. And that`s not all…

This model is equipped with rear-wheel traction, 6-gear manual transmission and improved suspension. And they all come with a very aggressive look. The new Shelby GT500 has a modified body kit, air intakes for the hood, new spoiler and 19 inch rims.

The new Shelby GT500 will be built at the Auto Alliance factory in Flat Rock, Michigan, and can be seen in showrooms this spring.

MORE PICTURES BELOW ! CLICK TO ENLARGE !

]]> http://www.auto-a-holic.com/say-hello-to-the-new-ford-mustang-shelby-gt-500/feed/ http://www.auto-a-holic.com/auto-a-holiccom-is-back/ http://www.auto-a-holic.com/auto-a-holiccom-is-back/#comments Mon, 05 Jan 2009 09:27:25 +0000 Boata Radu http://www.auto-a-holic.com/?p=1013 The Holidays are over so it’s time for us to get back to work . Starting now, our feed will be filled with new articles , new spy-shots, new premiers, new test drives, and many , many other goodies .

I`m proud to announce that around June we’ll organise a contest with many and attractive prizes, especially for our readers . Anyone can join, but our subscribers will get 1 to 5 extra points, depending on the time that he/she has been our subscriber.  But enough of this now, let’s not spoil the surprise. If you want to subscribe , just click here!

We wish that all of you will have a beautiful and productive 2009 !

I would like to thank all of you, our readers and subscribers for visiting our blog daily, to our collaborators AutoItalia for giving the chance to test some our their cars and to all members of Auto-A-Holic.com for making a good job. We wish all of you “Happy Holidays!” and we hope the next year will bring us more success than this one brought us. Thanks again and “Happy Holidays!”

For our German readers : Frohe Feiertage!
For our Romanian readers : Sarbatori Fericite!
For our Brazilian readers : Boas Festas!
For our french readers : bonnes fêtes!
For our Turkish readers: Mutlu bayramlar!
For our Swedish readers : God Jul och Gott Nytt År!
For our Russian readers : Веселых праздников!

The model that appears in these images is the work of a young  Colombian, Leon Paz, designed in a stage of practice at Honda Americas. The concept has attracted the attention of Honda, which may apply to this study in the future, to start a new project.

The Acura 2+1 Coupe, as the name suggests, explores a not very known configuration, until now at least, of 2 seats in the front and one in the back. The ideas is not bad at all, because in 95% of the cases, not more than three persons will travel at the same time in a coupe.

Another interesting and innovative detail, is the panoramic roof extension to the front , over the engine.  Until now, we have seen car companies who created their models with the “heart” in plain sight, but none that shows us both the passenger and engine comportment.

This project remains a beautiful dream, but one that can be reality one day, especially that the young Colombian didn`t go too far from the specifics of the Honda brand.

MORE PICTURES BELOW ! CLICK TO ENLARGE !

According to some reports, this will be the last vehicle built under the partnership with McLaren, and even at a cost of €750,000 Mercedes should have no trouble finding buyers for the 75-car allotment. The car will feature a bodywork fully made by carbon fiber, a 650-hp supercharged 5.5-liter V8 and the five-speed automatic transplanted from the SLR 722.

It seems that the Stirling Moss can achieve a top speed of 217 mph and can reach 100km/h in just 3.5 seconds. Pretty good, if you ask me. Other features : “swing-wing” doors, a retractable air brake that can be operated manually and a two-piece tonneau cover (stored in the trunk) that can cover the entire cockpit or just the passenger seat.

Check out the press release :

Stuttgart– Mercedes-Benz and McLaren are adding the crowning glory to the model family of their highly successful SLR super sports car with a new, uncompromisingly spectacular car. There is neither a roof nor a windscreen to separate the driver and passenger from the outside world; they enjoy unadulterated high-speed excitement with all the attributes of a speedster.

The new SLR Stirling Moss is also characterised by the most sophisticated technology and a breathtaking design which reinterprets the SLR legend. With 478 kW/650 hp the SLR Stirling Moss accelerates its V8 supercharged engine from standstill to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds, and has a top speed of 350 km/h – no other series-production car is at the same time so open and so fast. This extreme concept makes the new high-performance sports car a legitimate bearer of the name of the British motor racing legend and Mille Miglia record-holder Stirling Moss, who drove the legendary Mercedes-Benz SLR racing cars from victory to victory during the 1950s.

The exclusive SLR Stirling Moss rounds off the current SLR family and is limited to 75 units. It is priced at 750,000 euros. The SLR Roadster will cease to be manufactured at the end of May 2009 as planned, and production of the SLR Stirling Moss will commence in June 2009.

Three letters are all it takes to make car fans’ hearts beat faster: SLR. In the 1950s the Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 celebrated victory after victory. It won the Mille Miglia and the Targa Florio as well as the Tourist Trophy. It was driven by the stars of the time: Juan Manual Fangio and Karl Kling – and, first and foremost, by the British racing driver Stirling Moss. At ten hours, seven minutes and 48 seconds he still holds the Mille Miglia record.

This is why the modern-day version of the legendary SLR carries the additional words “Stirling Moss” in its name. As the new SLR Stirling Moss unites the character of the current SLR models with the fascination of the SLR of 1955. The core values of both the historical and the present-day SLR models include an exciting new design, innovative technology, high-class materials displaying perfect craftsmanship, and, above all: a unique driving experience for all the senses.

Whilst the 300 SLR earned its spurs on racing circuits the world over, the new member of the SLR family is not designed for the racetrack. Although it sets new standards in terms of technology, performance and excitement – just like its forebears – it is aimed at individuals who have exquisite requirements and nurture very special dreams.

Highly puristic concept without a roof or a windscreen

Remaining totally true to the specifications of the 300 SLR, the new Silver Arrow’s equipment is extremely sophisticated and yet at the same time decidedly spartan, doing without both a roof and side windows. There are just two wind deflectors a couple of centimetres in height to protect the driver and passenger from the airflow. Two air scoops integrated into the bodywork serve as roll-over bars. With this extreme concept the new SLR Stirling Moss is visually very different from all the other vehicles which belong to the elite sports car class.

Just like the legendary racing vehicles of yesteryear, the SLR Stirling Moss dazzles with its superlative performance. Accelerating from zero to 100 km/h in less than 3.5 seconds and with a top speed of 350 km/h this puristic high-performance sports car denotes completely new dimensions in open-top driving. And not just because of the impressive performance figures; every time drivers take to the wheel of the SLR Stirling Moss their senses are addressed with a previously unheard of intensity, conveying a driving experience in its purest and most sensual form. This automotive thoroughbred thus facilitates the kind of open-air feeling that is utterly unique for a road-going vehicle.

Exciting design reminiscent of the SLR racing cars

The SLR Stirling Moss, its entire bodywork made of fine lightweight carbon fibre, represents a stand-alone design concept. Whilst the Mercedes-Benz designers were working on the body of the new SLR Stirling Moss, they were fully aware every single moment that they were creating a vehicle with a top speed of 350 km/h. At the same time this supreme athlete is highly reminiscent of the SLR racing cars from the 1950s, whose design idiom still never fails to impress to this day.

The SLR Stirling Moss sports an exciting, pronounced arrow-shaped form and is characterised by an elongated bonnet and a compact, muscular rear. As there is no windscreen, the exterior and interior flow smoothly into one. The bonnet also stretches from its striking tip right down into the interior, giving the vehicle body a distinctly sleek air. Even when standing still, the sports car radiates such dynamism that the observer immediately falls under its spell.

Further eye-catching features include two air scoops behind the driver and passenger. They carry additional roll-over bars, also uniting the traditional and the modern. The wings are powerfully contoured. Black-painted ventilation “gills” sitting facet-like on the sides and on the bonnet also cite the legend. A thrilling interplay of light and shadow ensues through the expressive lines, underlining the dynamic overall impression. Exactly as they were on the shining historical example, the side skirts on the new SLR Stirling Moss are also very high. This prompted the designers’ decision in favour of folding swing-wing doors which open forwards.

The vehicle can be closed by two tonneau covers which are carried in the boot. When both tonneau covers and the doors are closed the SLR Stirling Moss resembles a sculpture.

In keeping with the puristic exterior of the vehicle, the interior is also reduced to the bare essentials. Surfaces penetrating each other in the instrument panel and doors make for an exciting atmosphere and resonate perfectionism. A mixture of high-class authentic materials such as carbon fibre, aluminium and fine-quality leather sets the style here. An aluminium plate carries the engraved signature of Stirling Moss and covers the area around the shift lever.

Innovative technology and polished aerodynamic concept

Developers working on the Stirling Moss were able to fall back on a wealth of experience gathered when producing the SLR Coupé and Roadster, in particular where the technical base was concerned, with its extravagant carbon-fibre design, high-performance suspension and throaty V8 engine. The common denominator uniting the Stirling Moss with the other members of the SLR family is the aerodynamic concept with a closed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper for maximum possible downforce at the rear axle – with one difference: the diffuser here is considerably larger than that on the coupé and roadster.

Thanks to the high-precision work carried out in the wind tunnel, the SLR Stirling Moss always generates sufficient downforce for extremely safe handling. But the driver can also manually operate the AIRBRAKE in order to increase the contact pressure further, during particularly sporty driving, for example. The AIRBRAKE is also raised during powerful braking at speeds above 120 km/h, so as to stabilise the vehicle even more in such situations, thus facilitating maximum possible deceleration.

Limited to 75 units – the SLR models’ crowning glory

The new SLR Stirling Moss is the kind of high-calibre speedster coveted by the sporting gentry and enthusiasts alike. At the same time it is a collector’s item which marks the pinnacle of an era and, for the foreseeable future, at least, the final curtain for the SLR. In May 2009 production of the SLR models will cease; only a total of 75 units of the Stirling Moss will be manufactured between June and December 2009, bearing chassis numbers from 1 to 75. Not only does this exclusive vehicle represent the conclusion of the current SLR family; it also serves as a very special thank you to the most loyal of SLR customers, for they are the only ones able to acquire a Stirling Moss.

Now, he has his own 420bhp Audi R8, which can be used in deliver gifts faster. The car is clad in stickers depicting snow and things associated with Christmas. The Audi from above was seen somewhere in the Netherlands.

Oh, but wait. Did someone told Santa that this R8 cannot fly unlike his sledges ?

Source : AutoGeSpot