Rover 75 Coupe Concept, 2004

Rover 75 Coupe Concept, 2004

 

The company's design team wanted to mark the first 100 years of the Rover marque with a stylish design that would sit confidently as the latest in the line of renowned Rovers like the P4, the handsome P5 coupe, the innovative P6 2000 model and the bold SD1 hatchback.

This has been achieved in the form of the Rover 75 Coupe concept - a beautiful and elegant two-door expression of the stylish 75 Saloon. The concept's interior strongly focuses on Yew wood and Tan leather hide introducing the style of designer furniture into the automotive lounge, extending Rover's trademark for a welcoming interior.

Peter Stevens, Rover's design director says: "I want people to turn away for a moment from post modern brutalism and to enjoy the elegant and timeless lines of the Rover 75 Coupe Concept design. The true character of a Rover comes from its ability to present a cosseting environment with comfort and refinement being the high priorities, elements that should be expressed in the form and detailing of the exterior of the car.

Buick Riviera Concept Coupe, 2007

Buick Riviera Concept Coupe, 2007

 

 

 

The Riviera has been engineered to accommodate a new hybrid system.
The fuel-efficient car, which will feature several technological and manufacturing advances.

Exterior Design - A Sense Of Existence, Not Anonymity
The Riviera design is structured around the Buick tri-shield logo, sitting proudly on a trihedral waterfall grille. This takes the traditional Buick treatment to a new level of sophisticated boldness.

The gullwing doors, selected for their exotic appeal, achieve an expansive entrance to the two-plus-two seating configuration. Measuring 1938 millimeters at their widest point, they add to the coupe's sleek sideline. At night, fully opened doors gently shine the "Buick" name on the ground.

The use of carbon fiber in all body panels allowed the designers greater flexibility through reduced mass and added strength. This made the gullwing engineering demands easier to realize and sharp, tight radius curves possible across the body surface.

The Riviera sits on 21-inch 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels, combining polished and satin finishes, with low-profile tires. Taking their cue from Formula One cars, the side mirrors are sweeping yet unobtrusive.

Interior Design : All About Relaxation
In a word - sanctuary. The use of rich blue and subtle creams, representing earth and water themes, are conveyed through high-quality leather bucket seats, plush carpet and a luxurious padded steering wheel. Completing the organic feel, the roof comprises two shaded glass windows offering increased headroom and a celestial connection for occupants.

The interior has no discernable start and finish point for the front and sides, creating a comfortable lounge feel. It is immediately futuristic yet somehow familiar.
The three-dimensional speedometer, inspired by past classics but utterly modern in design, compliments the touchpad styled central console loosely modeled on a computer mouse. An LCD display screen crowns the central console.

Interior designers were encouraged to consider people's personal belongings to enhance their feeling of familiarity and comfort in the vehicle. Continuing the theme of calm simplicity, electronic shifter pads replace the traditional transmission shifter. Controls are kept to a minimum to avoid driver distraction.
Ambient light strips are applied from across the console and inserted on the door liner, stretching to the front seats. Deliberately imitating precious Chinese jade stone, the lights are tinted a subtle icy green, which also offers tribute to a favored color of Buicks in days gone by.

Interior trim treatments befitting the Buick prestige abound - miniature aluminum tri-shields in the front seat headrests, a wooden floor mat in the rear and a rear central armrest which can move sideways left and right to accommodate passengers of different sizes.

Pontiac G6, 2009

Pontiac G6, 2009

 

Pontiac has announced that it is ringing in the new year with a fresh look for its best-selling line of G6 mid-size vehicles. Additional fuel-saving powertrain options, more aggressive exterior styling, and a sleek new instrument panel highlight the 2009.5 model Pontiac G6, which will begin arriving in the dealerships in January 2009.
All Pontiac G6 models, including sedans, coupes and convertibles, receive the interior upgrades. The uniquely styled Pontiac G6 GXP models will not be affected by the exterior or powertrain changes.

New Powertrain Options
For the first time, the Pontiac G6 coupe will be available with GM's fuel sipping, 164-horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder Ecotec engine. Linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, the coupe's new powertrain combo is capable of the same 33 miles per gallon fuel efficiency as the current Pontiac G6 sedan and also incorporates a new TAPshift manual shift system with steering wheel-mounted paddle controls.
In those areas where E85 ethanol-based fuel is readily available, a FlexFuel version of the 219-horsepower 3.5L V6 will be available as a no-cost alternative to the standard 3.5L engine on all body styles.

The optional 222-horsepower 3.9L V6 for the Pontiac G6 convertible remains unchanged, as does the standard 252-horsepower 3.6L V6 in all GXP models.

Sportier Exterior
Inspired by the sporty front end styling of the new Pontiac G8 performance sedan, the new G6 front fascia features chrome surrounds for the signature Pontiac dual port honeycomb grille. This same grille pattern is carried to an updated lower air dam.

Also new are a revised headlight design with clear park/turn lenses and amber lamps, body color mirrors and painted rockers on the sedan and coupe. An updated spoiler is available for base model sedans and is standard on the GT models.
New rear fascias unique to the sedan and coupe/convertible accommodate both single and dual exhaust, as well as larger diameter exhaust tips.
17-inch chrome wheel covers are now standard equipped on all four-cylinder, six-speed automatic sedans and coupes. An updated 17-inch wheel will be standard as a part of the popular Sun-and-Sound package.

Refreshed Interior
A revised center stack is the most obvious interior enhancement of the 2009.5 model Pontiac G6, sporting all new HVAC controls and an updated AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input jack. The driver information center has moved to the gauge cluster, which has also been enhanced with new graphics and lighting.

The 2009.5 Pontiac G6 will also benefit from the integrated info-tainment opportunities in GM's optional MY LINK enhanced communication package. MY LINK integrates audio system, Bluetooth telephone, XM satellite radio and OnStar navigation functions in one simple package. It includes an upgraded USB-equipped radio system, allowing for direct control of various portable music players, plus provides a full year of both XM radio and OnStar Directions and Connections services.

Other interior changes include new dark satin nickel trim accents on the steering wheel, door panels, and shifter plate. New two-tone seats in an ebony-light taupe color combination are available in either cloth or leather for all models, offering an option to the standard ebony seats. A new optional ebony-titanium color leather seating package is also available on all GT and GXP models.

Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, 2009

Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, 2009

 

The renowned Porsche crest, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S is the most powerful Cayenne ever built. Sharing the same essential 4.8-liter V8 engine as the Cayenne S, GTS and Turbo, the Turbo S boasts 550 horsepower and 553 lb.-ft. of torque. That's a ten percent increase in power and a seven percent boost in torque over the Cayenne Turbo. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo S accelerates from zero to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.7 seconds on its way to a track-proven top speed of 174 mph (280 km/h). Like the Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo, the Turbo S comes standard with a six-speed Tiptronic S driver-shiftable automatic transmission.

Given Porsche's sensitivity to environmental concerns, despite the astounding performance capabilities of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, the new model carries no fuel economy penalty over the Cayenne Turbo. Both the 2009 Porsche Cayenne Turbo and Porsche Cayenne Turbo S are rated by the EPA to deliver 12 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway. And both are certified as Low- Emissions Vehicles, Tier II (LEV-II).

Instantly recognizable as a Cayenne, and clearly identifiable as a unique model, the Turbo S rides on standard 21 inch alloy wheels carrying humongous 295/35 wide-aspect tires. Other unique visual clues to the flagship's identity are the body-color wheel arch extensions and matte-finish air intake grilles. When seen from the rear, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S is instantly recognizable by its dual-twin tailpipes made of precision cast aluminum, inspired by those on the Porsche Carrera GT. Finally, for those who want, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S is offered in a unique exterior color: Lava Grey Metallic.

The passenger cabin of the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S boasts a unique look thanks to its standard two-color leather upholstery. Buyers have a choice of either Black/Havanna or Black/Steel Grey seating surfaces, as well as solid Black or Sand Beige. In addition, the dashboard and upper door panels have coordinating seams finished in the lighter upholstery color. The interior of the Turbo S is also distinct with its standard two-tone, padded leather steering wheel and carbon fiber door and dash trim. As with the Cayenne GTS, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S boasts bolstered front and rear sport seats. The front seats have an extended memory feature and the three-person rear seat features contours for the outer positions.

Besides its more potent turbocharged engine, the Porsche Cayenne Turbo S differs mechanically from the Turbo by coming with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) as standard equipment. PDCC features active control of body lean in curves for improved response, agility and increased passenger comfort.

Peugeot 308 CC, 2009

Peugeot 308 CC, 2009

 

 

The attractive design
The Peugeot 308 CC stands out by the superb fluidity of its style, both in its coupé and cabriolet configurations. From the badge to the end of the roof, from the door to the lower rear panel, the graphic style of its profile is emphasised by light reflecting contours. Chrome detailing further enhances this elegant profile.

Low slung and firmly planted on its wheels, the Peugeot 308 CC has a prominent shape and spectacular LED rear lights that use "red light curtain" technology to create a unique signature for the car by day and by night.
The passenger compartment has an undeniable personality. Particularly striking in the "cabriolet" version, it has a different feel from the hatchback and creates the impression of a grand touring car.

The door panels also have an exclusive design, incorporating an elegant yet dynamic and robust metallic inner door handle. The sporty steering wheel, the special finish of the instrument panel and the "black lacquer" centre console complete this theme.

In terms of the "sporty" "haute couture" feel of the car, the Peugeot 308 CC is clothed with dynamic fabrics, simple leather or even an "integral leather" trim. This now extends to the entire passenger compartment which is usually unseen in this segment. In Black, Vintage or Beige, the attractive interior trims differ according to the range of body colours: Fashionable pearlescent black, subtle "terre d'ombre" and also the established favourites: blue, red, black and grey are available.

The typical CC specification
Meticulously designed to enhance the day-to-day comfort and convenience of its occupants, the Peugeot 308 CC offers a multitude of "everyday" benefits.
The fully automatic retractable roof can be magically transformed in 20 seconds and the operation can be viewed on the colour display, turning the car into a dynamic coupé or an elegant cabriolet according to the mood of its occupants.

A coupé-cabriolet with four full size seats, the Peugeot 308 CC benefits from wider tracks and a wider body compared to the 307 CC, as well as a front seat structure which offers both generous leg room to the rear occupants and provides a good amount of space.

Two dynamic and flexible engines power the Peugeot 308 CC through a six speed manual gearbox. unless an automatic gearbox is preferred. They are the 1.6 litre THP 110 kW (150 bhp) turbocharged direct injection petrol engine and the 2.0 litre HDi FAP Euro 5 103 kW (140 bhp) diesel engine, the latter being also particularly environmentally-friendly.

The car combines both motoring enjoyment with efficient road holding. The wide tracks, the lowered ride height and high-performance suspension specially developed for this body style give the Peugeot 308 CC excellent potential, together with a real sense of security for the driver. The large 302 x 26 mm disc brakes are an equal match to the performance of the engines. This is combined with an ESP system that watches over the occupants at all times.

Inside the Peugeot 308 CC an excellent structural rigidity wards off any vibrations that might affect steering, rear vision or seat comfort. This is the result of carefully placed structural reinforcements: dampers that pacify, braces ready to take the strain.. In short, the Peugeot 308 CC offers a highly rigid structure and excellent vibration damping demonstrating Peugeot's coupé-cabriolet expertise.

An indispensable ingredient of comfort and convenience inside the car, the low interior noise levels of the Peugeot 308 CC in its coupé configuration will clearly set the vehicle apart from its competitors.

The Peugeot 308 CC is designed to create a real sensation of tranquillity in the passenger compartment. The structure is robust and designed to withstand and dissipate front and side impact energy. It is also supplemented by innovative and intelligent means of restraint that the cabriolet body shape dictates. They include a chest/pelvis side air bag built into the front seats and exclusively a side head air bag which is a world first, guaranteeing effective protection of all parts of the body regardless of seat position.
The aim of all this important safety work is to obtain 5 stars in the EuroNcap test for the protection of adult occupants of the vehicle.

In harmony with the seasons. The cabriolet configuration can even be enjoyed in cold weather, whether it's making the most of early spring, saying no to winter or driving with the roof down in beautiful snow bound landscapes. Peugeot offers all these pleasures to the occupants of the Peugeot 308 CC, thanks to its protective architecture, its intelligent air conditioning (which adapts its operation to the cabriolet body shape), heated seats, its windstop and. its remarkable "Airwave" system built into the front seats, which acts like a scarf by diffusing warm air adjustable for temperature/flow and direction.

Following are further typical CC features and equipment testifying to the ability of the Peugeot 308 CC to anticipate its occupants' needs.

    * Automatic remote-control locking of interior storage compartments (glove box and storage under the central armrest)
    * Centralised control of all four windows.
    * The special "rear seat access" function with electrically-operated seats.
    * Deadlocking of doors and selective unlocking.
    * LED courtesy lighting in the door mirrors.

Not forgetting a usable boot with dedicated storage spaces (including one under the boot carpet for the windstop), laid out to resemble a presentation box. Its capacity (VDA method) is 403 dm3 in the coupé configuration and 226 dm3 under the windstop in the cabriolet configuration (or 465 litres and 266 litres respectively in "water" equivalent).

Finally, to make the journey even more pleasant a wide range of WIP (World In Peugeot) options are available on the Peugeot 308 CC:
    * WIP sound, MP3 CD audio system
    * WIP Bluetooth, MP3 CD audio system, USB Box and hands-free kit.
    * WIP Nav, a user-friendly satellite navigation system offering a MP3 CD audio system, Bluetooth functionality and satellite navigation with a retractable 7" 16/9 colour display.
    * WIP Com 3D, a top-of-the-range satellite navigation system with a 30 GB hard disc and a Juke Box function, MP3 CD audio system, integral mobile phone, Bluetooth functionality, USB connector and a retractable, high-resolution 7" 16/9 colour screen with a 3D display.
    * The JBL Hi-fi pack with 10 speakers offering made-to-measure sound which recognises and adapts to the cabriolet configuration.