2012 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2 special edition

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2 special edition

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder special edition limited to only 250 units at the 2011 Los Angeles Auto Show. This version brings together that stunning level of open-air driving fun that can come only from a super sports car with a folding roof and an unbelievably agile and spontaneous handling. The new Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder optimized to deliver the best ever aerodynamics figures for fun and safe driving with the use of a specific dampers setting, adapted aerodynamics to make up for the change in the distribution of forces, a 45-percent locking differential, and the adoption of the e-gear transmission. It also features “a fine adaptation of the ESP stability control system.”
"With the Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, we are expanding the Lamborghini lineup with a purist model that adds yet another dimension of driving fun. This will appeal in particular to a very special group of customers that enjoy a spirited driving style and also like to experience the sheer pleasure of open-air driving," says Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "This special model with rear-wheel drive is a logical expansion of our lineup of spyder models with all-wheel drive."
The most important technical characteristics of the Lamborghini LP550-2 Spyder are already recognizable from the model designation - LP stands for Longitudinale/Posteriore, for the mid-engine built longitudinally in front of the rear axle. 550 refers to the power output in hp, and the 2 stands for the drive to the rear wheels. At Lamborghini, the word spyder means the ultimate synthesis of a fascinating, powerfully expressive super sports car design, the ultimate open-air thrill and sheer pleasure for all the senses.

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2 special edition

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder with rear-wheel drive is the perfect fit for the kind of sports car driver that enjoys a particularly hands-on and spirited style of driving. The setup is laid out to ensure that the rear end remains reliable and stable at all times, while the front axle steers with the highest level of precision and limits movement to an absolute minimum.
Thanks to the supremely powerful V10 engine, controlled oversteer is not a problem, although always and only to the extent prescribed by the driver. Its easy-to-control road manners and the ESP assistant system developed for these vehicles make the Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder an outstandingly safe sports car to drive.
In order to shape this unique character of driving fun and safety, the engineers in Sant'Agata Bolognese carried out extensive modifications to the Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, developing it specifically for these new characteristics. Not only was drive concentrated on the rear axle, the vehicle was also completely retuned in all its dynamic details. This Includes a specific dampers setting. The aerodynamics were also adapted to account for the change in the distribution of forces.
The vehicle show out its goods with a rear axle with the 45-percent locking differential, and the adoption of the e-gear transmission. All completed with a fine adaptation of the ESP stability control system. While the standard program puts a priority on stability, the CORSA program allows larger drift angles and delivers a highly intensive appreciation of the full dynamics of the LP550-2. All the excellent characteristics of the Gallardo chassis are fully retained - its pleasing bodyroll comfort, as well as its excellent directional stability at high speed.

2012 Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder LP550-2 special edition

Engine the 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder will be powered by the same engine found in the coupe: a 5.2-liter V10 engine that delivers a total of 550 hp and 398 lb-ft of torque. The engine Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder is mated to a newly adopted e-gear transmission. Together, this setup sprints the 3,351 lb Gallardo from 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 198 mph.
The heart of the Gallardo - the 5.2-liter ten-cylinder - was also retuned and its characteristics optimized for rear-wheel drive, delivering that perfect and breathtaking synthesis of high-revving pleasure, pulling power, exuberant temperament and powerful melody in all keys.
With the Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder, Lamborghini is expanding its most successful model line of all time (to-date a total of nearly 11.800 have been built in Sant'Agata Bolognese) with a stunning variant that continues the successful individualization of its lineup. This includes the LP560-4 Spyder, as well as the ultra-high-performance Gallardo LP570-4 Spyder Performante, which boasts an even further weight reduction through carbon-fiber lightweight engineering. The latest version among the coupe variants is the Gallardo LP570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale - the road-going version of the race car featured in the world's fastest single-brand racing series.
Price the 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP550-2 Spyder starting price of $209,000, excluding the $2,995 delivery and gas-guzzler charge, will go on sale in March 2012.

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

A very special version of the MINI is making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, injecting a fresh breeze into the world of motoring – the new MINI Convertible. Introducing this versatile four-seater, MINI is combining the distinctive pleasure of driving an open car wîth the unique enjoyment you can only feel at the wheel of a genuine MINI.
Combining supreme fun wîth practical value.

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

The MINI Bayswater wears its inherent sporting élan and extrovert style very much on its sleeve. The Kite Blue metallic exterior paintwork was created exclusively for the special-edition model, as was the interior design and 17-inch light-alloy Sandblast wheels with high-gloss black surfaces and bright machined rim and spoke edges. Midnight Black metallic and Eclipse Grey metallic paint shades can be ordered for the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper SD as an alternative to the new, radiant Blue finish. The sporty appearance of the MINI Bayswater is emphasised by the black contrasting roof and the likewise newly created Sport Stripes for the bonnet, which streak dynamically towards the windscreen. The exterior mirror caps carry an identical stripe design - blue on the right-hand side of the car, grey on the left.
"Bayswater" lettering adorns the side indicator surrounds, door sills and seat tags. The Punch Leather seats come in the exclusive colour variant Rocklite Anthracite and include side bolsters sporting a metallic sheen and blue and grey contrast stitching. Two-tone contrast stitching also adorns the gearshift/selector lever and handbrake gaiters.

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

Other innovative design features in the interior include Piano Black cockpit trim strips, which continue the path set by the Sport Stripes over the bonnet, and the leather Colour Line elements in Rocklite Anthracite, whose classy character is emphasised by black stitching. The same leather variant is also used for the armrests, while the model-specific floor mats have anthracite-coloured edging and blue contrast stitching.
Inside, the leather seats get side bolsters, a metallic sheen and blue/grey contrast stitching – a theme also carried over to the handbrake and gearshift levers. Piano black plastic is also used for some inserts. Completing the Bayswater kit is the Chrome Line interior package and a Harmon/Kardon audio system.

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

The MINI Bayswater also comes with stainless steel pedals and the Chrome Line Interior package, and includes the Pepper Pack in its range of equipment. Plus, the new special edition can likewise be specified with a wide variety of items from the optional equipment list if further individual touches are desired.
In keeping with its sporting charisma, the MINI Bayswater lines up for action with powerful engines at its fingertips. Customers can order their MINI Bayswater in MINI Cooper (90 kW/122 hp), MINI Cooper S (135 kW/184 hp), MINI Cooper D (82 kW/112 hp) or MINI Cooper SD (105 kW/143 hp) trim. The special-edition model is also delivered with a six-speed manual gearbox as standard, while a six-speed automatic features in the options range.

2012 Cooper MINI Bayswater

The MINI Bayswater takes its name from an extremely vibrant area of London. Located to the west of the city centre - halfway between the shopping hot spots of Knightsbridge and Notting Hill - Bayswater is best known for its unusually high density of bars and restaurants, not to mention the adjacent and no less famous Hyde Park. MINI is therefore returning to the London theme to further accentuate the link with both its home country and the fascination surrounding the London lifestyle. Indeed, both the MINI Bayswater and MINI Baker Street are following in the tyre tracks of a naming tradition begun by the classic Mini and reprised more recently with the MINI Camden, MINI Mayfair and MINI Clubman Hampton special editions.

Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013

 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013

"The 2013 model year will be historic for Corvette, marking its 60th Anniversary and the final year for the current 'C6' generation," said Chris Perry, vice president, Global Marketing and Strategy for Chevrolet. "We couldn't think of a more fitting way to celebrate these milestones than bringing back one of the most-coveted combinations in the brand's history - the Corvette convertible and a 427 cubic-inch engine."

The new 427 Convertible Collector Edition is powered by an LS7 engine that delivers a total of 505 HP and 470 lb.-ft. of torque. It sprints from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds and can hit a top speed of 190 mph.
The Corvette is currently celebrating its 60th anniversary with a special 60th Anniversary Package that will be available on all 2013 Corvette models, as well as a Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition. 

 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013 

The LS7 was co-developed with the Corvette Le Mans-winning GT1 engine and features lightweight titanium connecting rods and intake valves, as well as racing-inspired high-flow cylinder heads and a dry-sump oiling system. It is assembled by hand at GM's Performance Build Center, where customers who purchase the 427 Convertible Collector Edition can purchase the Corvette Build Experience option and assemble the engine that will power their new car.

Supporting performance elements in the Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible include the driveline and rear axle system from the Corvette Z06, a rear-mounted battery and standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control. The standard 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels are wrapped in ZR1-style Michelin PS2 tires. Lightweight machine-face Cup wheels - introduced on the 2012 Corvette Z06 with Z07 and Corvette ZR1 with PDE performance packages - come standard and include unique gray-painted pockets. Black Cup wheels or chrome ZR1-style wheels are also available.

 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013 

All 2013 Corvette 427 Convertible will carry a unique vehicle identification number sequence, similar to the Corvette ZR1. And if you’re interested, you better act fast as this model is likely to run out quick and we’re not sure when Chevrolet is likely to offer another.

The new Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition will be available in the 2LT, 3LT, and 4LT trim levels. Prices will be announced at a later date, but the first units will be auctioned at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale collector car auction, on Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012. Proceeds from the sale will benefit the Drive to End Hunger food relief program.

Competition

 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013 

The model can also be combined with the new 60th Anniversary package that includes an Arctic White exterior with a Blue Diamond leather-wrapped interior and suede accents. Other features include a ZR1-style rear spoiler, special badging, gray-painted brake calipers, and "60" logos on the wheel center caps, steering wheel, and seat headrests.

The 60th Anniversary Package as well as the 2013 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition will make their public debut at the Barrett Jackson car auction in Scottsdale, Arizona on January 21. First sales start early this summer.

 Chevrolet Corvette 427 Convertible Collector Edition 2013 

As Chevrolet themselves confirm, the new 427 Convertible Collector Edition will take on models like the Porsche 911 Turbo Cabriolet, the Audi R8 V10 Spyder, the Aston Martin DBS Volante, and the Ferrari California.

2012 NISSAN JUKE SHIRO available with all three engine choices

 2012 NISSAN JUKE SHIRO

2012 Nissan Juke Shiro was launched at the 2012 Brussels Motor Show, the Shiro is aptly named. Shiro means white in Japanese, and the interior of the new version is dominated by a number of white flashes. The centre console, inspired by the shape of a motorcycle fuel tank, has until now only been available in red or grey; in Shiro, it's white. It's the same story when it comes to the door armrests which have white cappings.

Juke Shiro is available with all three engine choices – 110 hp 1.5-litre dCi; 117 hp normally aspirated 1.6-litre petrol; and the turbocharged direct injection petrol 1.6-litre DIG-T which develops 190 hp.. All are front-wheel drive and are coupled to a five- or six-speed manual transmission depending on the engine.

The Juke Shiro 1.6-litre DIG-T version is also available with Nissan’s advanced All-Mode 4×4-i four-wheel drive system which incorporates torque-vectoring technology and which is coupled to the latest generation CVT transmission.

 2012 NISSAN JUKE SHIRO

Built at Nissan's manufacturing plant in the UK, Juke has inspired customers across Europe and helped the Sunderland manufacturing plant reach an all-time production record during 2011 of 480,485 vehicles. Following in the hugely successful footsteps of its big crossover brother, Qashqai, Juke exceeded all expectations to sell over 136,282 units last year, a number that is expected to be beaten in 2012.

Comprehensive standard technology includes Nissan Connect - Nissan's advanced media, communication and navigation centre - a colour reversing camera, Intelligent Key with engine start button, heated front seats, Climate Control, automatic wipers and lights, folding door mirrors and rear privacy glass.

Also standard is the Nissan Dynamic Control System which gives the driver the chance to optimise the car's dynamic functions. Safety equipment includes ESP, six airbags, ABS with EBD and Brake Assist and three head restraints in the rear.

 2012 NISSAN JUKE SHIRO

Nissan Juke Shiro also benefits from a carefully selected accessory package which adds a number of useful features all designed to harmonise with Shiro's white interior features. It includes a centre armrest, complete with white stitching, which also provides additional storage; chrome plated sill protectors for the front door, illuminated in white; and Juke-branded velour floor mats for the front and rear.

Depending on the market, this package is either available as an option or as an integral part of the special Shiro version.

Since its launch in 2010, Juke has redefined the highly competitive B-Segment. Its combination of SUV toughness and sporting style sets it apart from class rivals with its unique design appealing to individual thinkers looking for something different - and the arrival of Nissan Juke Shiro increases the opportunity for them to make a real statement.

 2012 NISSAN JUKE SHIRO

In line with Nissan's philosophy of constant development, a significant engineering change was made to Juke during 2011. Revisions to the final drive ratio of the normally aspirated petrol and diesel models reduced emissions and enhanced refinement by lowering noise levels without affecting the lively acceleration of either car. Emissions from the manual version of the 117PS petrol 1.6 Juke are now 139g/km, while the 1.5 diesel produces just 129g/km allowing it to wear Nissan's PURE DRIVE badge, which signifies a model producing less than 130g/km.

ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

 The 2012 Audi A5 models are now more distinctive than ever. The rear lights and the headlights have been redesigned and are optionally available in xenon plus technology with homogenous LED daytime running lights. New colors and materials accentuate the interior, and many details of the operating concept have been fine-tuned.

The advanced technologies are being added to the Sportback, Coupé, Cabriolet and S5 models in the areas of the engine, quattro drive and infotainment for even more efficiency, sportiness and intelligence. The updated design visually underscores the technical expertise involved in these versions.

All 2012 Audi S5 models, including the Coupe, are now equipped with the 3.0 TFSI producing 333 hp (245 kW) and 325 lb-ft (440 Nm) of torque. Compared to the 4.2-liter V8 it replaces in the Coupe, the supercharged V6 consumes on average 20 percent less fuel. Average fuel consumption is just 8.1 liters (29.04 US mpg) while performance remains impressive. The S5 Coupe accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.7 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

Each of the four TDI diesel and three TFSI gasoline units in the new engine lineup include forced induction and direct fuel injection. The new 1.8 TFSI features a number of groundbreaking innovations. Fuel consumption has been reduced by 11 percent on average. The start-stop system and the recuperation system come standard with all engine-transmission configurations.

Each engine is matched with the ideal drivetrain - six-speed manual, multitronic, seven-speed S tronic, front-wheel drive or quattro drive. When combined with S tronic, the quattro drivetrain uses the crown-gear center differential and torque vectoring; the sport differential is the perfect complement. The chassis has been more finely tuned, with the optional Audi drive select system and dynamic steering making the Audi A5 even more fun to drive. The electromechanical power steering is new to the Audi A5 family.

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

The new bumper features pronounced air inlets with massive struts, revamped grilles and flat fog lights. Sharply chiseled edges give the engine hood a three-dimensional look; the entire front end appears even flatter and wider. The upper corners of the single-frame grille in high-gloss black are beveled. The grille's lateral bars and the Audi rings appear to be sculpted.

The headlights have also been updated. Their lower edge forms a wave; their interior has been restructured. With the optional xenon plus headlights, the LED daytime running lights form a narrow, homogenous clasp framing the headlight. Audi also offers the adaptive light system with dynamic cornering light and turning light. The rear lights have also been redesigned and are optionally available with continuous LED light strips. The bumper includes a number of additional details.

The product improvement has added a millimeter (0.04 in) to each of the exterior dimensions. The Audi A5 Sportback is 4.71 meters (15.45 ft) long; the Coupé and the Cabriolet 4.63 meters (15.19 ft). The range of colors has been reshuffled and now comprises 16 colors. The fully automatic acoustic top of the Audi A5 Cabriolet is available in four colors. The S line exterior package is available for those who appreciate an even more dynamic look.

The vehicle bodies impress with high rigidity, outstanding crash safety, high vibrational comfort and low weight. The front fenders are made of aluminum for improved axial load distribution. Aerodynamic fine-tuning measures include a lined underbody.

The new A5 is a highly intelligent car. Its driver assistance systems have undergone intensive further development. The range of infotainment options now includes the Bluetooth online car phone, which delivers a number of special services and connects the Audi A5 to the Internet.

The interior of the Audi A5 models reflects the Audi brand culture. It is now more elegant than ever - with new steering wheels, including an option for a flattened ring, new steering column stalks and with narrow chrome clasps framing the control elements.

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

A button is used to directly adjust the optional seat heating and seat ventilation in three stages. Also updated were the ignition key, the selector lever for the automatic transmission, the button for the optional Audi drive select system and the controls of the high-efficiency air conditioning and multifunction steering wheel. All displays are now illuminated in white.

New paint covers the bezels on the instrument cluster and the center console, and there is also a new selection of upholstery and inlays. The latter are available in Aluminium Trigon or in walnut or natural fine grain ash. Almost all of the interior colors are new. Fine Nappa leather replaces Valcona in the Sportback, and the armrests can also be covered in leather, if desired. The Audi A5 Sportback is also now optionally available as a five-seater.

Another attractive option is the S line sport package. It drapes the interior in black and accentuates it with elegant applications. A sport suspension lowers the vehicle body by 10 millimeters (0.39 in), and 18-inch wheels round out the package. Buyers looking for that special something will find many more customization options in the Audi exclusive range, including the stylish Audi exclusive line with two-tone seat coverings.

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

Audi offers the ideal drivetrain for each engine. A manual six-speed transmission and the continuously variable multitronic are available for models with front-wheel drive. The quattro models come with a manual transmission or the lightning-fast, seven-speed S tronic. All of the transmissions shine with their convenience and precision, high efficiency and wide gear spread. The long ratios in the upper gears reduce fuel consumption.

Members of the Audi A5 family equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the S tronic transmission also feature the crown-gear center differential with torque vectoring. During normal driving, the mechanical component sends the engine's power primarily to the rear wheels. If necessary, it redistributes the power lightning-fast and smoothly. Up to 70 percent can flow to the front axle, 85 percent to the rear axle. Torque vectoring uses targeted, minor braking interventions to make the handling even more precise.

Available as an option in all Audi A5 quattro models, the sport differential provides for maximum precision and high traction. It uses two superposition stages engaged via multi-plate clutches to actively distribute the torque between the rear wheels as needed.

The ESP stabilization program with electronic limited slip differential is standard in all front-wheel drive versions of the Audi A5. ESP uses minimal braking interventions at the inside front wheel for even more agility during dynamic driving. The large brakes - with ventilated front and rear discs in many variants - offer excellent stopping power and are very easy to modulate.

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

17-inch wheels with 225/50 tires are standard. Options include wheels up to 20 inches and 265/30 tires as well as four new wheel designs.

Audi drive select can be combined with additional modules, if desired. These are the sport suspension with damper control, the sport differential and dynamic steering, which steplessly varies the steering ratio by nearly 100 percent as a function of speed.

Another new standard feature in the Audi A5 model series is the electromechanical power steering. An electric motor generates the right amount of boost for the speed being driven. The electromechanical power steering features a direct ratio, reacts instantly and provides precise road feedback. It intervenes slightly to support the driver when braking on a surface with less grip on one side of the car.

The assistance systems in the Audi A5 model series use a variety of technologies to make driving even more controlled. Some of them have been improved with new functions. Among the standard features is the new driver information system with recommendations to take a break. It uses steering motions and additional parameters to detect when the driver is getting tired and issues an appropriate warning.

 ALL NEW 2012 AUDI S5 3.0 TFSI

Audi side assist supports the driver when changing lanes by using radar to monitor the space behind the car. Audi active lane assist - a new feature in the Audi A5 - helps the driver to maintain the lane. A camera detects the lane markings and the system makes slight corrections to the electromechanical steering, if necessary. The adaptive cruise control uses radar technology to maintain a constant interval between the Audi A5 and the vehicle ahead. At speeds below 30 km/h (18.64 mph), it initiates maximum braking in the event of an impending collision.