Ferrari FXX evo 277

Ferrari Models Reviewed

Ferrari was founded in 1929 by Enzo Ferrari and first produced cars in 1947. Today, the parent company for Ferrari is Fiat. The Ferraris engines are famous for their engine displacement technology. The V6 and the V8 are built in total displacement, while the V12 used a displacement of one cylinder. Some of the latest Ferrari models include the Ferrari 550, the 575 M Maranello, 599 GTB Fiorano, the 612 Scaglietti, the F355, the Ferrari 360, the F430, the Enzo Ferrari and the Ferrari FXX.

The 599 GTB Fiorano was started to be produced in 2007, and it is a Gran Turismo two seat berlinetta with a FR layout. The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is a follower of the Ferrari 456 and it is a 2+2 coupe Gran Turismo. It was first launched in 2004 and is still being manufactured. Another car also launched in 2004 is the Ferrari F430. It is a sports car and it is available as a two seat Berlinetta and as a two seat Spider. The F430 has a MR layout and can be purchased with a 6 manual or semi automatic speed.

The Enzo Ferrari is a super car/ ultra car manufactured between 2002 and 2004 and was launched in the memory of the founder of the Ferrari company. The Enzo was manufactured in only 400 copies so it was a highly expensive item. It had a Berlinetta body style and a MR layout. The follower model of the Enzo Ferrari was the FXX, which is also a super car. The FXX was released in 2005, and is said to be an improved Enzo Ferrari with the same MR layout and Berlinetta body style. The FXX keeps many of the Enzo's features but has also new cool features that are singular to the FXX. The car is highly expensive and it may be driven on special tracks only. The last FXX, the 30th was given to Michael Schumacher. A similar super car is the Maserati MC12 Corsa.

Ferrari si also responsilble for some concept models, which include among others the Ferrari P5, the Ferrari Pininfarina 512S Berlinetta Speciale, the Pininfarina Modulo, the Ferrari Mythos, the Ferrari GG50, the Ferrari P4/5 and the Ferrari Zagato 575 GTZ.

By : Michael Rad

Auto Cars Audi R8 360º Gallery

Jaguar XF 5 Top Cars

Jaguar XF
Jaguar XF
Jaguar XF
Jaguar XF
Jaguar XF

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged New 2010

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged view

2009 Jaguar XF Supercharged interior

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jaguar xf

2009 Jaguar XF Cars Pictures 2010

Based on a concept car called the C-XF ("C" for concept), the 2009 XF is a midsize four-door that will replace the Jaguar S-Type. Competition models include the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Cadillac STS, Lexus GS sedan and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This mid-sized, rear-wheel-drive sedan offers a fresh, engaging alternative to these luxury imports. The XF comes in Luxury, Premium Luxury and Supercharged trim levels. The Jaguar XF delivers everything you'd expect in a contemporary luxury sedan, and then some. The big news with XF is styling, interior design and features, though the hardware underneath is anything but ordinary.

Exterior

The 2009 Jaguar XF sedan is a thoroughly modern automobile. This essential Jaguar character is defined by the XF's face, and centered on a prominent grille that launches nearly all of the lines flowing rearward across the car. Wing-shaped headlight clusters wrap around the XF's corners onto its fenders. The XF exhibits the first application of Jaguar's new design direction in a sedan. The windshields has a raked angle windshield, and the XF carries front fender vents similar to the XK's. Distinctive characteristics include a sculpted hood and a prominent aluminum frame surrounding the side windows. Around back are high-mounted LED taillights that emulate Aston Martin — much like the XK was charged with ripping off an Aston-style front end. Alloy wheel sizes range from 17 to 20 inches. Jaguar has applied a host of high-tech metals, including high-carbon steels, dual-phase steel, hot-formed boron and bake-hardened steels, to create a vertical safety ring around the XF's occupant cell. While the XF's body is larger, Jaguar also claims that it is the most torsionally rigid car in the class, meaning that it flexes less from end to end under pressure. The XF's basic shape does more than create a high-impact presence. Aerodynamically, it's the most efficient Jaguar sedan ever, with an impressive 0.29 drag coefficient and a front-to-rear lift balance of zero.

Interior

Inside, the Jaguar XF has everything expected to be in a sporting luxury sedan. The interior combines traditional cues with contemporary touches. When the engine is started, the JaguarDrive Selector knob rises out of the console, and closed air conditioning vents rotate to the open position. Actions like these and the pulsing-red engine Start button are what interior designers call theater. All seats are leather, with perforated inserts between the bolsters. The base Luxury package gets what Jaguar calls bond-grain, and it's thick and sturdy. The Premium Luxury and SC models get soft-grain leather. The XF also uses proximity sensors in place of switches or handles for the reading lights and glove compartment lid — a wave of the hand does the trick. The XF's relatively large trunk can be expanded by folding the backseat forward. The cabin is relatively high-tech, the overhead lights, for example, work simply with a touch. In general, the XF's features and controls empower the driver without overpowering.

Powertrain

The 4.2 liter V8 comes naturally aspirated or supercharged. The normally aspirated V8 is no slouch in output, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. With its belt-driven, rotor-type blower, the supercharged 4.2, or SC, generates 420 hp and 408 lb-ft. It's easily the most powerful engine in this class, save those in limited-volume hotrod cars from BMW's M division, Mercedes AMG and the like, expensive cars with expensive engines. Dynamic and Winter modes optimize the accelerator progression, shift schedules and stability-system operation for sporty driving and foul weather, respectively.

Handling

The new Jaguar XF measures up to the best cars in its class in just about every respect, and its over-the-road performance is excellent. Jaguar says the 300-horsepower engine propels the XF from zero to 60 mph in roughly 6.2 seconds. The top trim level has a 420-hp supercharged version of the 4.2-liter that's claimed to blast to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The lower trim levels have conventional four-wheel-independent suspensions, and the Supercharged model comes standard with Computer Adaptive Technology Suspension, an electronically controlled adaptive-damper suspension that smoothes out bumps and controls body motions. The XF is smooth, fast, and responsive, but also quiet and comfortable.

Trim

The 2009 Jaguar XF is available in three trim levels with a choice of two V8 engines. All feature a six-speed automatic transmission with a paddle-operated manual mode. Standard and optional features include heated and cooled front seats, front and rear sonar parking aids, a backup camera, a blind spot monitor, adaptive cruise control, Bluetooth wireless phone capability and inputs for an iPod, a generic MP3 player or a USB storage device. There's a choice of three audio rigs, the best of which is a Bowers & Wilkins premium surround-sound system. Sirius Satellite Radio is also an option.

The XF 4.2 Luxury is powered by a 4.2-liter V8 delivering 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The Luxury is one of the best equipped base models in this class, with features like rear park assist, passive keyless entry and start and a power glass sunroof included in the price.

The XF 4.2 Premium Luxury has the same normally aspirated V8 as the standard model, with even more luxury features. Its standard equipment list adds a GPS navigation system, soft-grain leather on the seats, dash and door panels, three-stage heated front seats and 19-inch wheels, among other things.

The XF 4.2 SC, or Supercharged, comes standard with just about everything Jaguar offers, including 20-inch wheels. Most significantly, it features a supercharged version of the V8 and CATS, the Computer Active Technology Suspension.

Safety

Airbags included on the XF are dual-stage frontal airbags, front-seat side-impact airbags, and curtain airbags for front and rear side-impact protection. Rear park assist is standard on all models, with a graphic display on the dash. The rearview camera, front park assist and blind-spot monitor are standard on the SC and optional on other models. Active safety features include Dynamic Stability Control and the latest-generation antilock brakes (ABS).

The excellent aerodynamics help keep the XF stable at high speeds, reduce wind noise inside and reduce fuel consumption at a given speed, compared to a car with more drag. The new 2009 Jaguar XF, which replaces the S-Type sedan, has all the earmarks of a hit. It's great looking, smooth and comfortable, with the features buyers expect in this class, and then some. Perhaps best of all, it accelerates quicker and handles as well or better than some of the best cars in its class, including the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6, and Lexus GS. The XF's interior is both gorgeous and charming, and less confusing or annoying than some of its competitors. The 2009 XF offers a choice of powerful V8 engines, and both get excellent mileage for cars with this performance. The least expensive V8 model is priced the same or less than some comparably equipped, six-cylinder competitors. Jaguar anticipates EPA fuel economy ratings of the XF at 17 City, 23 Highway, which is better than any current V8-powered car in the class, and better than some six-cylinders.

Staffa Hydraulic Motors Pumps Quality Kawasaki Reviews

Staffa Hydraulic Motors Kawasaki Pictures

CIRCUIT AND APPLICATION NOTES STARTING TORQUES

The starting torques apparent on the
graph on folio 3 are boilerplate and
will alter with arrangement parameters.

LOW SPEED OPERATION

Minimum operating speeds are

determined by amount conditions

(load inertia, drive elasticity, etc.).

For operation at speeds below

20 r/min argue Kawasaki.

HIGH BACK PRESSURE

When both basin and aperture ports are
pressurized continuously, the lower
pressure in one anchorage charge not exceed
70 bar (1000 psi). Argue Kawasaki
on applications above this limit. Note
that aerial aback pressures abate the
effective torque achievement of the motor.

BOOST PRESSURE

When operating as a motor the outlet
pressure should according or beat the
crankcase pressure. If pumping occurs
(i.e. overrunning loads) again a positive
pressure, “P”, is appropriate at the motor
inlet ports. Calculate “P” from:
P (bar) = 1 + N2 + C bar
22 600
P (psi) = 14.5 + N2 + C psi
1560
Where:
N = speed, r/min
C = crankcase pressure
The breeze amount of oil bare for the
make-up arrangement can be estimated
from the crankcase arising figure
(see Volumetric Efficiency blueprint on
page 5). Allowance should be made
for added arrangement losses and additionally for
“fair abrasion and tear” during the life
of the motor, pump and added system components.

COOLING FLOW

Operation aural the connected ratings
does not crave any added cooling.
For operating altitude above
“continuous”, up to the “intermittent”
ratings, added cooling oil may be
required. This can be introduced
through the additional crankcase cesspool hole
or, in appropriate cases, through the valve
spool end cap. Argue Kawasaki about
such applications.

MOTOR CASING PRESSURE

With the accepted shaft allowance fitted,

the motor case burden should

not beat 3,5 bar (50 psi). On

installations with continued cesspool lines

a abatement valve is recommended to

prevent over-pressurizing the seal.

Notes:

1. The case burden at all times charge not

exceed either the motor basin or aperture pressure.

2. Check accession ambit (page 8) for

maximum crankcase cesspool fitting

HYDRAULIC FLUIDS

Dependent on motor (see Model Code

position ) acceptable fluids include:

- Antiwear hydraulic oils

- Phosphate esters (HFD fluids)

- Water glycols (HFC fluids)

- 60/40% water-in-oil emulsions

(HFB fluids)

- 5/95% oil-in-water emulsions

(HFA fluids)

Reduced burden and acceleration limits, see folio 3.

Viscosity banned aback application any fluid

except oil-in-water (5/95%) emulsions

are:

Max. off amount .......... 2000 cSt (9270 SUS)

Max. on amount ................ 150 cSt (695 SUS)

Optimum ........................... 50 cSt (232 SUS)

Minimum ........................... 25 cSt (119 SUS)

PETROLEUM OIL RECOMMENDATIONS

The aqueous should be a acceptable hydraulic

grade, non-detergent petroleum oil. It

should accommodate anti-oxidant, anti-foam

and demulsifying additives. It must

contain antiwear or EP additives.

Automatic manual fluids and

motor oils are not recommended.

TEMPERATURE LIMITS

Ambient min. ......................... –30°C (-22°F)

Ambient max. ....................... +70°C (158°F)

Max. operating temperature range

Petroleum Wateroil

containing

Min. –20°C (–4°F) +10°C (50°F)

Max.* +80°C (175°F) +54°C (130°F)

* To access optimum account activity from both fluid

and hydraulic arrangement apparatus 65°C

(150°F) commonly is the best temperature

except for water-containing fluids.

FILTRATION

Full breeze filtration (open circuit), or full

boost breeze filtration (closed circuit) to

ensure arrangement cleanliness of ISO

4406/1986 cipher 18/14 or cleaner.

NOISE LEVELS

The aerial babble akin is beneath than

66,7 dB(A) DIN (70 dB(A) NFPA)

throughout the “continuous” operating envelope.

Where babble is a analytical factor,

installation resonances can be reduced

by isolating the motor by elastomeric

means from the anatomy and the

return band installation. Potential return

line resonances basic from liquid

borne babble can be added attenuated by accouterment a acknowledgment band aback pressure

of 2 to 5 bar (30 to 70 psi).

POLAR MOMENT OF INERTIA

Typical data: 0,0076 kg m2 (26 lb in2).

MASS

Approx., all models: 40 kg (88 lb).

INSTALLATION DATA GENERAL

Spigot

The motor should be amid by the

mounting bung on a flat, robust

surface application accurately sized bolts. The

diametral approval amid the motor

spigot and the ascent charge not

exceed 0,15 mm (0.006 in). If the

application incurs shock loading,

frequent abandoning or aerial speed

running, again aerial compactness bolts should

be used, including one adapted bolt.

Bolt torque

The recommended torque wrench

settings for the ascent bolts are:

M14 ........... 160 ±21 Nm (116 ±15 lbf ft)

M12 ...................... 97 ±7 Nm (70 ±5 lbf ft)

1/2" UNF ............. 97 ±7 Nm (70 ±5 lbf ft)

Shaft coupling

Where the motor is absolutely accompanying to a

shaft accepting absolute bearings the

shafts charge be accumbent to within

0,10 mm (0.004 in) TIR.

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Jeep EV Concept, 2008

Jeep EV Concept, 2008

The Jeep EV development vehicle is a Range-extended Electric Vehicle that provides a glimpse into the future of a "Go Anywhere, Do Anything" vehicle with renowned Jeep Wrangler capability.

The Jeep EV combines Wrangler's unmatched off-road capability with the ultimate "Tread Lightly" mindset by providing nature ambassadors with the ability to roam the planet and take care of it at the same time.

The Jeep EV Range-extended Electric Vehicle uses an electric motor, an advanced lithium-ion battery system, and a small gasoline engine with an integrated electric generator to produce additional energy to power the electric-drive system when needed. The 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor generates 400 N•m (295 lb.-ft.) of torque. With approximately eight gallons of gasoline, the Jeep EV has a range of 400 miles, including 40 miles of zero fuel-consumption, zero-emissions, all-electric operation.

The instant high torque of the electric-drive motor and the ability to precisely control each wheel independently results in off-road capability ideally suited for the Jeep brand, without compromising on-road driving capability.

Jeep Cherokee, 2008

Jeep Cherokee, 2008

The new Cherokee will launch in the UK in May 2008 with a choice of manual or automatic transmission and one equipment level - Jeep Cherokee Limited.

Inside, the all-new Jeep Cherokee Limited will feature a Luxury Leather Package which includes supple leather-trimmed seats featuring French-seam stitching. The passenger grab handle, console-storage cover and front-door trim panels also receive the same leather treatment, complete with the French-seam stitching. The parking brake handle and transmission shifter receive exclusive leather treatment, brushed stainless-steel door-sill plates welcome passengers, and the floor carpet is augmented with premium floor mats all as standard.

Standard features now include automatic temperature control system, tilt steering column, luxury leather-wrapped steering wheel, power and heated fold-away mirrors, power windows with driver-side one-touch, fog lamps and 17-inch aluminium wheels.

Classic Jeep Design
The exterior design of the all-new Jeep Cherokee takes its cues directly from the Jeep brand's legendary 65-plus years of heritage. Familiar design characteristics, such as the clamshell bonnet, seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings and rugged stance provide the vehicle with its classic Jeep style.

Standard across the range is the signature seven-slot grille. A front-end module that spans across the vehicle houses the grille and headlamp system in a single unit. The structure is designed to meet pedestrian impact and other crash standards for all markets. Front lamp modules contain halogen headlamps and standard fog lamps. The front fascia is body colour on all vehicles.

Industry-Exclusive Sky Slider Full-Open Canvas Roof
The all-new Jeep Cherokee brings the open-air experience with the industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-length open canvas roof. The Sky Slider roof can be moved to several positions, including full forward, full rear or partially open to any position in-between with a convenient express one-touch switch.

The Sky Slider roof is made of a reinforced acrylic cloth, similar to a convertible top, which is weather-resistant and leak-proof. The top panel nests into a weather strip seal to help minimise wind noise. The roof utilises anti-pinch software that will prevent the roof from moving should it detect an object in its path. The Sky Slider roof is an optional feature.

Functional Interior Space with More Available Amenities
The interior of the all-new Jeep Cherokee delivers simple, functional styling and provides customers with ample storage and organisational space.

Standard 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats and a fold-flat front-passenger seat are perfect for loading and hauling. The rear seats also incorporate a recline feature for more adjustment for passengers. The front and rear seats feature wide inserts and heavy bolstering designed to cradle occupants for a secure feeling. The seats have tall, square shoulders, and the bottom cushion has been lengthened for better thigh support. Leather, heated seats are standard on the Limited model.

Audio and Navigation Systems
The Jeep Cherokee is available with a variety of audio systems, and will offer the innovative MyGIG Multimedia Infotainment System that features built-in navigation, audio, entertainment and communication systems as an optional extra.

The voice dialogue system recognizes more than 100,000 words. The navigation system features both 2-D and 3-D bird's-eye views of roads and multiple route calculation alternatives. Maps and guidance are displayed on a motorized, flip-down 6.5-inch thin-film-transistor (TFT) colour display. The TFT screen uses an active matrix for viewing from angles up to 180 degrees - perfect for the centre of an instrument panel.

Cargo and Utility
There are several storage and convenience features designed into Jeep Cherokee's spacious rear cargo area.
Both left and right trim panels have cargo tie-down loops for securing items to the load floor. The left trim panel houses a concealed compartment for jack storage and tools.

The load floor system has a reversible carpeted surface. Dual latches on either side release for access to a 10-centimetre deep waterproof storage bin beneath the lid - perfect for muddy boots.

Economical and Powerful 2.8L CRD
The Jeep Cherokee is also available with a new 2.8-litre DOHC 16-valve common-rail turbo diesel engine. With its Variable Geometry Turbocharger (VGT) and rapid throttle response, this engine enables the Cherokee to claim best-in-class torque of 460 Nm (339 lb.-ft.) at 2,000 rpm with the five-speed automatic transmission, and best-in-class towing capacity of up to 2,800 kilograms and a driving range of 450 miles. Maximum power is 130 kW (177 hp DIN) at 3,800 rpm.

The new 2.8-litre CRD engine also provides a weight savings of approximately 6 per cent, achieves increased cam belt life (durability now of 140,000 kilometres) and features Piezo fuel injectors and a 2000-bar fuel system to improve fuel-system speed and control.

A forged steel crankshaft now features eight counterweights compared to the prior crankshaft which had four. A structural oil pan assists in reducing noise, vibration and harshness on the new engine.

The VGT now has an electronically controlled actuator as opposed to a pneumatic actuator on the previous engine. This provides improved cold launch performance, and it also allows the turbocharger to spool up faster from idle, minimising turbo lag and providing good low-end and high-end torque.

All-new Full-time Four-wheel-drive System
The all-new Selec-Trac II full-time four-wheel-drive system is standard on all Jeep Cherokee models. The Selec-Trac II four-wheel-drive system is a full-time, active on-demand system that anticipates and prevents wheel slip before it occurs. It is ideal for a wide range of road settings, including dry pavement conditions not typically suited for conventional part-time four-wheel-drive systems.
Electric shifting between 2WD, 4WD Auto and 4WD Low is accomplished with a console-mounted switch. A pushpin button is used to shift to Neutral mode.

Jeep-engineered Hill Descent Control
The same Jeep-engineered Hill Descent Control system introduced on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is now available on the all-new Cherokee (with an automatic gearbox only). The system was designed to mimic the downhill control and flexibility afforded by the ultra-low gearing found in a Jeep Wrangler Rubicon with its 4:1 ratio transfer case and six-speed manual transmission. This gearing provides for six speeds of controlled hill descent.

Operational in the 4WD Low position, Hill Descent Control provides downhill assistance at a controlled rate of speed with more precision and smoother operation than simply using the brakes. By means of electronic brake control, Hill Descent Control supplements the gear reduction and engine braking that a traditional mechanical low-range transfer case provides. Unlike most of its competitors, the new Jeep Cherokee with Hill Descent Control offers extremely smooth transitions between speeds and allows the driver to use the throttle and brakes without turning the system off, with a smooth and controlled return to the preset speed after the driver releases the throttle or brakes.

Hill Descent Control is standard on all Jeep Cherokee models with automatic transmissions.

Proton Impian, 2006

Proton Impian, 2006

From the initial design sketches, through prototyping and development to production of the Proton Impian, first passenger car to be created entirely in Malaysia, Proton engineers have set out to reward owners with a driving experience in the highly competitive D sector that is second to none.

That they have succeeded is due in no small measure to a unique combination of engineering excellence and design flair. Proton's pragmatic approach to worldwide market requirements blends the best of Malaysian creativity with European engineering precision and Japanese manufacturing skills.

To create a safe and soothing environment for driver and passengers, Proton engineers have been supported by a Malaysian-based project team established by EDAG, the German body engineering specialists, while the Proton Impian's ride comfort and pin sharp handling reflect the silky skills of Lotus suspension tuning experts previously paraded in Proton's acclaimed Satria GTi.

The result is a car with clean, crisp styling that provides occupants with impressive safety standards and drivers with full control, no matter what the conditions. The reinforced body structure is among the strongest in its class, giving greater torsional rigidity for less body roll, better road-holding and a solid, European feel to the driving experience.

Setting even higher quality standards, the Proton Impian is manufactured using the latest modular construction techniques in a new factory alongside Proton's main plant at Shah Alam near Kuala Lumpur. Modular integration allows each module to be stronger and more rigid, at the same time reducing weight.

A state of the art emissions laboratory at the centre is fully approved by the UK's Road Transport Department Vehicle Certification Authority, while sophisticated suspension compliance and measurement rigs coupled with training from Lotus specialists has given Proton engineers the ability to achieve world-class ride and handling standards.

Malaysia's primary national car manufacturer has come a long way since the first Mitsubishi-based car rolled off the production line in 1985 and the Proton Impian personifies a new ambition to produce products that are technically advanced, great value and satisfying to drive.

Inner Strength
Thicker steel has been used to reinforce the entire body structure of the new car for maximum rigidity and reduced deformation in collisions. This has also helped to minimise road vibrations and noise transmitted through the suspension mountings.

A recyclable plastic fuel tank module is 15 per cent lighter than in previous Proton models and is designed to withstand a 30 mph rear impact from another vehicle. Modular construction is also used for the doors, front suspension assembly, strut and shock absorber mountings and for brake mountings.

Longer, wider and taller than the Proton Wira, the Proton Impian is also crucially 100 mm longer in the wheelbase. This adds up to more leg, head and shoulder room for added comfort. Spacious accommodation for up to five adults is supported by a wide, easy to load 15.5 cubic feet luggage compartment, which houses a space saving spare wheel and storage tray.

Safe and sure footed

Coil-sprung MacPherson strut front suspension and coil-sprung multilink rear suspension are enhanced by stabiliser bars to create the right balance between precise handling responses transmitted through rack and pinion progressive power steering and ride comfort.

In tuning the spring rates and dampers to achieve this goal, Lotus Engineering conducted exhaustive development work on steering effort and response, linearity, straight-line handling, cornering, lane changing, body control, wheel control and smoothness of ride before the Proton Impian was brought to market. The result is a car that scores eight A's in every facet of ride and handling.

In benchmark tests against such established and acclaimed D sector models as the Audi A4, Honda Accord and Vauxhall Vectra, the Proton Impian established a clear lead in overall ride and handling. With just 2.8 turns from lock to lock, steering response from the alloy wheels shod with 195/55R 15 tyres is direct and positive.

The driver's control of vehicle dynamics is further enhanced by the fitting of traction control as standard equipment to UK-spec cars. Dependable braking over all road surfaces is assured by 10in diameter disc brakes all round, ventilated at the front, plus four-wheel electronic ABS.

Flexible performance
Lower fuel consumption, noise and vibration levels, plus improved flexibility and response are delivered by the latest version of the lightweight Mitsubishi 1.6 litre 4G18 S4 petrol engine fitted to the new model.A plastic intake manifold and redesigned pistons, fuel injectors and distributor have saved space and reduced weight, while a new cooling system, engine stay and cylinder block reinforcement contribute to quieter running.

The four cylinder engine's design features improved cooling and lubrication of the cylinder block. A metal head gasket and wider timing belt ensure even better reliability and consumables such as transmission and engine oil, filters and spark plugs boast extended service intervals.

The new engine delivers increased power and torque than previous 1.6 engines used by Proton for enhanced driveability and economy, while emissions comply with European Step III regulations. Drive is either through a five-speed manual gearbox or optional four-speed electronic automatic transmission.

Safety and comfort
Ergonomic layout of all controls coupled with use of high quality materials in harmonious shades have dictated the design of the new model's passenger compartment. Fascia and seat styling reflects the latest thinking on interior design, with all functions within easy reach and view to help the driver maintain concentration on the road at all times.

Speedometer, tachometer and ancillary gauges monitoring water temperature and fuel level are positioned alongside a warning light panel directly ahead of the driver. Face level fresh air vents are positioned either side of the instrument panel and the driver's view ahead is protected from instrument glare by a stylish curved hood. Below the vents in the strategically-angled centre console are push button controls for secondary functions and a built-in stereo system, which has been ergonomically designed and acoustically tuned by Clarion specially for the Proton Impian.

Controls for the sound system are high mounted in the driver's field of vision to avoid driver distraction and push button controls for volume and station search are incorporated in the 14in. three spoke height adjustable steering wheel, which also houses an electronic driver's airbag.

Easy to use controls for the standard air conditioning are also to be found in the centre console, which sweeps down to incorporate an ashtray, cigarette lighter, cubby hole, gear shift, handbrake, cup holders and centre armrest concealing a storage bin. Ahead of the front passenger is a fascia-mounted airbag above the large glove compartment and both front seat occupants gain addition impact protection from side airbags.

Body hugging, reclining front seats with adjustable head restraints have 240 mm of fore and aft adjustment, while the driver's seat has hand controls to adjust seat height and lumbar support. Velour upholstery and deep pile carpeting is standard fitment, while the 1.6X is trimmed with Connolly leather upholstery.

Rear seats incorporating vertically adjustable head restraints and a folding central armrest feature 60/40 split and a child seat restraint anchorage. Moulded interior door trim conceals six-piece impact protection that complies with EU side impact safety requirements and windows are electrically powered front and rear. Finger-tip safety-touch controls for all four windows plus child-proof security lock are conveniently located for the driver in the front door armrest, while grab handles above each door and sun visors flush-fold into the moulded headlining.

Proton GEN-2, 2004

Proton GEN-2, 2004

Following Proton Berhad's acquisition of a 100 per cent controlling interest in Group Lotus Plc, personnel from the British sports car manufacturer's engineering division have been closely involved in the development programme of GEN-2; both at the Lotus headquarters in Hethel and at Proton's £62 million vehicle design and development centre in Malaysia.

Proton GEN-2 has been styled to attract a wider customer base; the Lotus Design Studio has had a major influence on the design of the curvy muscular bodywork that looks simply sensational in a range of new colours. From the bee sting aerial to the dashboard instrument panel, reminiscent of the Lotus roundel, the GEN-2's sporting pedigree is undeniable.

The 1.6 litre CAMPRO engine, designed in collaboration with Lotus, delivers exceptional torque output. The double overhead-camshaft engine produces 110bhp.

Power is matched by agility, with handling developed by Lotus. The Proton GEN-2 has outstanding stability when cornering and changing lanes, making it an exciting, responsive drive while maximising passenger comfort.

Sleek, sporty lines continue throughout the interior. The design combines ergonomic comfort with classic minimalism, while exclusive touches from Blaupunkt have brought fingertip controls to life.

Optimal protection is provided by increased body rigidity and strategic crumple zones. Four-wheel ABS on the GSX model ensures stability and good braking performance, whilst the Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) system prevents wheel lock up as the driver makes avoidance manoeuvres whilst braking.

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Vauxhall VXR8, 2007

Motoring enthusiasts across Britain mourned the passing of the Monaro. The only Australian-built car to be sold in the UK offered raw and exciting performance thanks to its 6.0-litre V8 and rear-wheel drive set up.

But the thunder from down under hasn't stopped yet - in fact it's only going to get louder. Vauxhall has announced the arrival of a new Aussie musclecar - the VXR8 - and it's more powerful and exciting than even the legendary Monaro.

The dramatic-looking new saloon is powered by the same 6.0-litre V8 as the outgoing Monaro VXR, but revisions to the engine have made it even more efficient. It now develops a massive 420PS and 550Nm of torque, giving it enough grunt to sprint from 0-60mph in just 4.9 seconds. No other supercar offers this sort of power for anywhere near the VXR8's price.

Yet the VXR8, based on Australia's Holden HSV Clubsport R8, offers more in the way of practicality than the outgoing Monaro, with four doors and space for all the family.

Though practical, with a spacious boot, comfortable, long-legged cruising ability and luxuries such as climate control and leather trim, the VXR8 is certainly no softie. Driver aids such as the stability system and traction control can be turned off at the flick of a switch - perfect for drivers who want to hone their skills on a track day!

VXR8 goes as well as it stops, too, with powerful 365mm front disc brakes that slow the car down from 60mph to a standstill faster than a Lamborghini Murcielago or BMW M5.

In response to customer demand, the VXR8 will also be the first VXR model to be offered with an automatic gearbox. In order to maintain the control which VXR buyers require, the optional £1,400 self-shifter has a manual override and a sport setting which ensure the performance isn't blunted - in fact the auto is only half a second slower to 60mph than the manual!

Satellite navigation and 20-inch wheels will be offered as options for those who want to make their VXR8 look more distinctive and help find their way to the best driving roads. Even with all the option boxes ticked however, the VXR8 is still around half the price of other cars with comparable performance.