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Back in January, ZF Friedrichshafen AG promised a nine-speed transmission, and now the gearbox specialists are ready to deliver some details. ZF claims that the 9HP transmission has been designed for front-wheel-drive vehicles with transversely mounted engines. More importantly for automakers looking to hit ever-increasing fuel economy standards, the transmission will also be able to improve fuel economy by up to 16 percent versus vehicles with the now commonplace six-speed auto. The supplier claims that at optimal fuel consumption speeds the 9HP will allow the engine to run at 1,900 RPM, as apposed to 2,600 revolutions in a typical six-speed-equipped model. Since ZF is in need of OEMs to include the new 9HP into their products, the supplier went out of its way to make sure the gearbox can adapt to many different applications. The transmission will reportedly be able to handle all-wheel-drive and hybrid duty, and it will be able to handle between 200 and 353 pound-feet of torque. ZF also designed the 9HP to be a "construction kit," with an additional transfer case for all-wheel-drive. It is also stop-start capable, and without the need for an additional oil pump. ZF hasn't released a timetable detailing when the nine-speed transmission could make its way into production vehicles, but we're guessing some automakers will jump at the chance to feature nine forward gears. For perspective on the 16 percent fuel economy jump, a mid-size sedan that now hits 35 miles per gallon on the highway now could theoretically hit 40 or 41 mpg. [source: ZF]

At the Transparent Factory in Dresden Volkswagen produces one of the finest automobiles in the world: the Phaeton. The limousine's quality and comfort (four-wheel drive and air suspension as standard) set a unique benchmark. Volkswagen, the most successful carmaker in Europe and China, has now made the Phaeton even more perfect. The company's new flagship is being unveiled for the first time at Auto China 2010 (27th April to 2nd May) in Beijing.

http://www.leftlanenews.com/porsche-panamera.html http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?artic...ubCategoryId=72 putting brand name aside is any car worth more than $400000 imaging HBD flat on wheels

(SEOUL) March 21, 2008 -- Combining youthful exuberance with a sporty and sleek design, Kia Motors Corporation today debuted the KOUP concept at the 2008 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) during a press conference at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Illustrating the shape and evolution of future Kia vehicles, the simple yet bold and aggressive KOUP exterior is complemented by its realistic and sleek interior design. Originating from the Kia Motors America Design Center in Irvine, Calif., the KOUP concept embodies Kia's philosophy of "Exciting and Enabling" with its balanced proportions and fluid design set to evoke an emotional driving experience. 　　　 "The Kia KOUP concept represents the future of the Kia brand and its dynamic vehicles that speak to our core philosophies," said Tom Kearns, chief designer of Kia Motors America (KMA). "Kia strives to appeal to the emotional side of car enthusiasts who seek adventure and want to take a leap into the future with style and advanced technology, and the KOUP effectively delivers." First glance Curb appeal begins with the KOUP's balanced proportions and fluid design. From the tab-shaped and purposeful upper grille to the high-tech and pragmatic headlamps, the front fascia's form gives the vehicle a bold and aggressive stance. The KOUP features an uncomplicated yet dynamic wedge shape along its sides stemming from its glowing, carbon fiber and black chrome enhanced LED lamp lenses. While the KOUP's overall form is simple and precise, it makes a design statement with positive tension created by a "swoosh" that swoops from the C-Pillar forward, down to the A-Pillar and flares all the way back around to the rear deck lid. A trailing horizontal lip along the deck lid tapers up toward the outer ends to meet up with the swoosh from the beltline. The rocker sill has a distinctive "check mark" shape and prominent wheel flares that give the KOUP a strong, lowered stance. The short overhangs and wide stance reflect its well-balanced and responsive character. No element of high-style design is missing in the KOUP concept as illustrated by its greenhouse-integrated, panoramic-view glass with two panels extending from the windshield through the roof to the backlight, appearing as two parallel pieces of glass - similar to a fighter jet cockpit. Segregating the glass panels, an interior mood light runs the full length of the greenhouse. To further the performance-inspired appearance with sporty elegance, carbon fiber enhancements accent the KOUP's chin spoiler, lamp lenses, cowl panel, side-view mirrors, rear bumper insert and rear diffuser, while flashy twin wheel spokes include carbon fiber inserts paired with an open design to show off the Brembo® calipers and cross-drilled rotors. 　　　 Inside the cockpit Conceived artfully and with graphic precision, the KOUP's interior hones in on the desires of auto enthusiasts from the inward lean of the dashboard and Supervision instrument panel, enhancing the performance-inspired driving experience to the custom-designed, race-inspired steering wheel in front of a three-gauge instrument cluster. Carbon fiber accents on the shifter plate and seat tilt-adjust mechanism reinforce sporty performance. Audiophiles and car enthusiasts alike will take heed of eight speakers, including large rear deck speakers matched to a juke box audio system, further harmonizing the driving experience. A built-in Bluetooth-enabled navigation system with Map On Demand (MOD) is just the beginning of the telematics services, including safe driving, car maintenance and life/assistance offerings. The KOUP features a realistic interior design that integrates high-style materials, including rich and supple seat fabrics accentuated with concrete- and black-color trims. As a true driver's car, the front seats contrast the rear seats with opposing colors and patterning and horizontal, padded silicone bars occupy the seat backs for extra comfort. High-tech details are integrated into the interior, including convenient smart key with push button start, and a six-speed automatic transmission with steering column-mounted paddle shifters. Taking flight Powered by a commanding 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged engine producing 290 horsepower paired with a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) twin scroll turbocharger for greater power and efficiency, the KOUP delivers astonishing torque of 289 lb-ft at a low 2,000 rpm sustained to 4,000 rpm. By injecting fuel directly into the cylinder under high pressure using the Kia GDI system, the intake charge is cooled and combustion behavior is improved. Improved combustion assures excellent fuel economy and low emissions. Lower grille openings enable additional air intake for extra power. 　　　 Built on a front-wheel-drive unibody frame, coil springs and stabilizer bars complement an independent front suspension featuring MacPherson struts and an independent dual link rear suspension to provide the optimal balance of ride comfort and engine responsiveness. An engine-speed-sensitive, power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering system adds the finishing touch for precise handling. In keeping with the KOUP's sporty essence, Continuous Damping Control (CDC) for quick movements and sharp turns paired with a sport-tuned, four-wheel independent suspension and strut tower bar offer a tighter grip for more spirited driving. Safety The KOUP concept features all of the standard safety features offered in Kia's regular production vehicle lineup including six standard airbags and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). Electronic Stability Control (ESC) paired with CDC stabilizes the KOUP for maximum contact with the pavement. The large 245/40ZR19 tires complete the KOUP's impressive package. Also included is adaptive front lighting and cruise control, adding to the KOUP's advanced safety technology. [Extracted from Kia Global Website]

Photos taken from Kia-World.net - Redesigned exterior and interior establishes Kia's distinctive, aggressive new look - New engine packs powerful punch without sacrificing fuel economy (SEOUL) March 21, 2008 - Kia Motors Corporation today unveiled the 2009 Optima midsize sedan (also known as 'Magentis' in some markets) at the New York International Auto Show. On sale in early fall, the refreshed Optima offers a completely modified exterior, which offers a more aggressive, dynamic style than previous models, and is outfitted with a new engine that provides more power and better fuel economy. For 2009, Optima also is larger than its predecessors, which complements its distinctive new styling and separates itself from other vehicles in the growing midsize segment. "Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of Kia Motors America. "Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima's sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia's commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package." Exterior excitement The 2009 Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia's philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, taillights are narrowed to enhance Optima's sleeker cosmetic appearance. Also, new for 2009 is the addition of the sporty SX trim, which complements the handsomely-equipped, value-priced LX and luxury-oriented EX trims. Already available with Kia's Rio, Rio5 (5-door), Spectra and Spectra5 (5-door) models, the SX line provides another dimension for Optima buyers looking for a sportier midsize. Along with a sport-tuned suspension, SX upgrades include: a black-bezeled front grille and headlamps, LED outside-mirror turning signals, fog lights and hyper-silver-finished 17-inch wheels. EX and LX V6 models are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, and are fitted with Goodyear tires.

Excerpt from www.japanesecarfans.com: Sports car verve with SUV practicality Mazda Motor Corporation (MC) today revealed the eagerly awaited 2007 Mazda CX-7 crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) at the Greater Los Angeles Auto Show. This breakthrough model also will be displayed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan.

Looks like a new Hyundai Accent is coming to our shores soon. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Accent Debuts Taking pride of place on the Hyundai stand in New York was the new Accent. It made its debut there, and if you think it looks familiar, that's because it is; the four-door saloon is based on Kia's Rio. The Accent features revised styling including a square grille and fresh headlamps. Only a 1.6-litre petrol engine is available.