Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, 2014

 

 

 

 

 

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT, 2014

Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT owners have come to expect - and appreciate - a vehicle that is powerful and refined, luxurious and functional, muscular and stylish. For 2014, Grand Cherokee SRT checks all of those boxes - while also delivering unexpected delights.

Enhancements for the 2014 model year include an all-new, fully electronic eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers improved fuel economy, significantly improved towing capacity, hardware and software revisions that further heighten Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT's fun-to-drive factor during a daily commute or for more spirited driving on the race track.

Outside, the new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT sports styling that is even more aggressive than the previous model. Design enhancements for 2014 include a new signature LED character lamp treatment, a brawnier grille, a new, one-touch liftgate and a new rear spoiler.

Inside, Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT customers are treated to a new 8.4-inch touchscreen that displays a wealth of SRT-exclusive Performance Pages data. A new launch control button is situated behind the new T-handle shifter on the center console, and a redesigned SRT-exclusive three-spoke, heated steering wheel with more ergonomically efficient paddle shifters, features a host of comfort, convenience and connectivity controls.

Awe-inspiring powertrain
For 2014, Grand Cherokee SRT owners get three additional gears from their transmission: an all-new 8HP70 eight-speed automatic. Fully electronic, it features on-the-fly shift-map changing.

For an even sportier, more driver-controlled experience, the 8HP70 eight-speed transmission can be manually shifted using newly redesigned, more pronounced, ergonomically efficient steering-wheel paddle controls.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT features a new Eco Mode for 2014 that optimizes the new transmission's shift schedule and extends the range of Fuel Saver Technology, which deactivates four cylinders when conditions allow. A button on the center stack allows driver's to engage Eco Mode for improved fuel economy.

The new eight-speed automatic transmission is specifically engineered to optimize shift quality and shift points for fuel economy, performance and drivability. The intelligent software takes into account variables including engine torque gradients, kick-down events, longitudinal and lateral acceleration, grade changes, friction detection and downshift detection to determine the appropriate shift map.

Additional parameters integrated into the control strategy include vehicle speed control, electronic stability control interaction and temperature. The result is automatic shifting that is ideally attuned to the performance requirements of almost any driving demand.

The new transmission is mated to the proven and powerful 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology delivering 470 horsepower (351 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 465 lb.-ft. (630 N•m) of torque at 4,300 rpm and helps deliver greatly enhanced towing performance of 7,200 pounds - a 44-percent improvement over the 5,000-lb. towing capacity from the previous model.

The new electronic T-handle shifter provides the flexibility for drivers to choose a transmission shift schedule independent from the Selec-Track system. Drive and Sport shifting can be selected via the T-handle with no effect on the chosen suspension, stability control and driveline torque split settings.

Also new for 2014 is a launch control system that mimics a professional driver's inputs to optimize Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT's performance by bringing engine, transmission, driveline, stability control, and suspension in line for a textbook launch. Controlled by a button behind the new T-handle shifter on the center console, the result is improved and more consistent straight-line acceleration. The performance experience of the 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT is further accentuated by a change in transfer case proportioning and dynamic controls for the Selec-Track system when the vehicle is in Track Mode. When this mode is selected, 70 percent of the engine's torque is delivered to the rear wheels for a more pronounced rear-wheel-drive experience. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT drivers will notice a vehicle that is more responsive from mid-corner to exit.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability
The Grand Cherokee SRT rides on a short- and long-arm (SLA) independent front suspension with coil springs, Bilstein adaptive damping suspension (ADS), upper- and lower-control arms ("A" arms), and a stabilizer bar.

The rear suspension is a multi-link design with coil spring, Bilstein ADS, aluminum lower control arm, independent upper links (tension and camber), plus a separate toe link, and a stabilizer bar.

Software improvements to the retuned Selec-Track system further distinguish the five dynamic modes: Auto, Sport, Tow, Track, and Snow, enabling drivers to choose a vehicle setting that more ideally meets their requirements and ambient conditions. Drivers will find the torque split change in Track Mode provides a vehicle that is more responsive from mid-corner to exit and one that delivers faster lap times at their favorite track.

Benchmark braking
The new 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT delivers excellent braking performance, requiring only 116 feet to come to a full stop from 60 miles per hour (mph). Credit belongs to red-painted, Brembo six-piston (front) and four-piston (rear) calipers, and vented rotors at all four corners measuring 15 inches (front) and 13.8 inches (rear).

Design
Starting with the performance-oriented and functional designs from the SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand, the 2014 Jeep® Grand Cherokee SRT model builds on that success with new exterior and interior styling cues that convey an even higher level of opulence and power.

"The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT raises the bar again for our performance SUV," said Mark Trostle, Head of Design - SRT Brand, Mopar and Motorsports, Chrysler Group LLC. "With an exterior that is even more aggressive while remaining upscale and functional, along with a luxurious interior cabin that offers new technology and connectivity, the new Grand Cherokee SRT remains at home on the road or on the racetrack."

Aggressive and functional exterior
The blending of aggressive, upscale and functional styling of the 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is readily apparent up front, where the signature seven-slot upper grille with black screen insert has been shortened and is flanked by slimmer, adaptive, bi-xenon headlamps that are surrounded by a signature LED character lamp treatment. The iconic Jeep grille itself is larger, and the headlamps feature a unique black background to distinguish the new SRT model from other Jeep Grand Cherokee models, while further accenting their jewel-like appearance.

The new styling enhancements also enabled SRT designers to incorporate the headlamp washers into the headlamp housing for the first time - rather than on the bumper - for a cleaner, more functional appearance.

New, five-spoke 20-inch "Goliath" wheels with polished finish are standard and ride on standard Pirelli 295/45ZR20 Scorpion Verde all-season tires or available Pirelli P Zero Three-season tires. Available split five-spoke, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels feature the "Spider Monkey" design in Satin Carbon or SRT-exclusive Black Vapor Chrome finishes.

A new Grand Cherokee badge along the vehicle's sides feature a more distinct, more pronounced font.

The front light treatment of the new 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT is mirrored in back for a cohesive styling appearance and features larger tail lamps with signature LED lighting. To further emphasize the performance heritage of the SRT design, the tail lamps feature a black surround, creating the illusion of floating lamps.

Not an illusion is the all-new, more aerodynamically efficient, rear spoiler integrated into the all-new liftgate.

The new, one-touch liftgate delivers improved customer convenience, and features a new SRT badge that no longer carries the engine cylinder number reference. Rather than relying on a manual lever, the liftgate is operated electronically with the push of a button. For 2014, the flipper glass has been eliminated - greatly enhancing rearward visibility and reducing weight.

Standard 4-inch dual exhaust tips integrated into the lower fascia deliver the throaty exhaust note Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT enthusiasts expect from their vehicle and complete the rear styling cues.

The 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT will be available in the following exterior colors: Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Pearl Coat, Granite Crystal Pearl Coat, Maximum Steel Metallic Clear Coat and Redline Pearl Clear Coat.

Race-inspired and high-performance interior
The 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT delivers an interior that is opulent, functional and ideally suited for daily drives or more spirited performance driving on the track.

A new Uconnect 8.4AN touchscreen takes center stage - literally - and displays a wealth of information including the SRT-exclusive Performance Pages, which cite recent track times, lateral acceleration, 0-60 miles per hour (mph) times and much more. These readouts are displayed in full-color and can now be shared with other SRT enthusiasts via a built-in 3G connection.

On the center console, drivers will find a new T-handle shifter for the new eight-speed transmission that allows the driver to select between Drive and Sport shift schedules. Wrapped in grained leather, this advanced shifter further reinforces the brand's street and racing heritage. Behind the shifter is new launch control button highlighted by a color graphic - similar to the "Christmas tree"-type staging lights from the drag strip.

The standard, SRT-exclusive, leather-wrapped and heated steering wheel with a flat bottom is redesigned with a bevy of new comfort, convenience and connectivity controls and more pronounced and ergonomically efficient paddle shifters.

The new steering wheel is designed and positioned to provide optimal view of the new gauge cluster that now features a 7-inch full-color, customizable instrument display. This new screen allows drivers to select from a multitude of layout and information to be shown in the center of the gauge cluster.

True carbon fiber trim accent sweeps across the driver's door, instrument panel and front passenger door.

The available 825-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon offers world premier innovation, featuring a 32-volt tracking power supply (TPS) 12-channel Class D amplifier that delivers outstanding acoustics and brings multi-dimensional, quality sound for all interior occupants.

GreenEdge speaker and amplifier technology offers superior sound quality and high sound pressure level outputs with minimum energy consumption. GreenEdge amplifiers alone outperform traditional amplifier efficiency by up to 55 percent, representing a net efficiency of more than 90 percent in some cases. The speakers are tuned for maximum efficiency and perfectly matched to the amplifier output.

The system's 19 GreenEdge high-efficiency speakers include nine tweeters, five mid-range speakers, two mid-woofers and three subwoofers located throughout the interior.

The 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT Laguna leather interior is available in two distinctive colors: Torque (black) and a new Sepia combination.

Available as part of the Sepia interior combination, a black Dynamica headliner and black pillars further accentuate SRT's upscale interior appearance.

Enhanced security, convenience and occupant safety
Uconnect Access is all-new to the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT. Enabled by embedded cellular technology, the system affords direct communication with local 9-1-1 service personnel at the touch of a button - no waiting for go-between call-center operators.

In addition, the 2014 Grand Cherokee SRT showcases advanced safety features from Forward Collision Warning - which alerts the driver to rapidly approaching traffic - to Blind-spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path detection, which aid drivers when changing lanes or in parking-lot situations.

Quality: Improving the most awarded SUV ever
How do you improve the most awarded SUV ever? The Jeep and SRT teams start by listening to their customers.

Key upgrades for the new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee lineup include an eight-speed automatic transmission to improve performance and fuel economy plus the newest Uconnect system that balances advanced technology and connectivity features with easy-to-use controls and voice commands.

From the driver's seat, everything the driver sees, touches - and even speaks to using voice commands - is enhanced to increase function, connectivity and responsiveness. Not only does it work better, it looks better packaged in more premium materials and elegant graphics. This includes a redesigned steering wheel that is optimized for driving position while also providing control buttons for frequently used features like radio, cruise control, phone and voice-activated commands. Customer feedback helped designers and engineers determine the ideal location for fingertip controls so that drivers could comfortably keep their hands on the wheel and eyes on the road.

Another significant interior change for Grand Cherokee is the availability of the new Uconnect Access 8.4AN touchscreen. Connectivity and touchscreens involve rapidly changing technology and ever-increasing consumer expectations - both of which have a significant impact on the overall quality assessment of new vehicles. The Uconnect team constantly evaluates consumer feedback, placing a high priority on designing systems that are intuitive for both tech-savvy customers as well as tech-averse drivers who prefer hard knobs to adjust the climate or radio station.

For the past two years, the Jeep Grand Cherokee has earned the title as the Total Quality leader for the medium-size SUV segment by Strategic Vision. The honor is based on new vehicle owner surveys that holistically assess consumers' good and bad experiences with their new vehicle. Similarly, the Jeep team values all comments from customers - especially feedback that leads to enhanced quality and customer satisfaction.

Manufacturing: Built in Detroit
The new 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT is built at the 3-million-square-foot Jefferson North Assembly Plant (JNAP) in Detroit, which has been the site of Grand Cherokee production since its introduction in 1992. To meet consumer demand, a third crew of 1,100 workers was added at JNAP in the fourth quarter of 2012.

2012 SUZUKI Swift Sport

Suzuki Swift Sport

The Suzuki Swift Sport is the performance flagship of the Swift model range and offers higher levels of tuning, steering and braking performance than the standard Swift on which it's based. The previous model first went into production in Japan in 2005 and in Hungary in 2006. The sporting experience and everyday practicality have earned many devoted fans in approximately 40 countries and territories around the world.

The new Swift Sport has the same DNA as its predecessor, but reflects the concept of developing a refined sport compact from the new Swift that Suzuki launched in the UK in Autumn 2010. Befitting its status as the new performance flagship of the Swift model range, it reflects the pursuit of even better handling, driving performance, environmental compatibility and an uncompromising focus on quality. Overall, it offers a rewarding experience of Suzuki's sporting DNA.

Suzuki plans to launch the new Swift Sport in a growing number of countries, beginning October 2011, with sales launch in the UK from early 2012.

Exterior
The new Suzuki Swift Sport's exterior design reflects the model's evolution towards a more sporting look. The ground-hugging form gives a sense of stability, the large front grille hints at the performance within and is flanked by big, distinctive finned fog lamp bezels that add even more sporting character.

Aerodynamic parts exclusive to the new Suzuki Swift Sport control the airflow, suppress lift and give the car a lower visual centre of gravity. Newly developed high-intensity discharge headlamps with a metallic-grey coating as well as new design rear combination lamps heighten the sense of dynamism expressed by the exterior design.

Sporty and refined Interior
Sporty, exclusive design features in the new Swift Sport's cabin heighten the driving pleasure and a high-quality look and feel generates pleasure of ownership with new design sport seats in an exclusive fabric together with a five-dial meter cluster that combines easy legibility with an uncluttered look.

Dimensions
The new Suzuki Swift Sport's strong presence belies compact dimensions that make it exceptionally nimble. Wide treads and a short wheelbase (key characteristics of the Swift series) combine with chassis systems that include an exclusively designed rear suspension to ensure brisk handling and outstanding high-speed stability. The new Swift Sport has an overall length of 3,890mm, an overall width of 1,695mm, an overall height of 1,510mm, and a wheelbase of 2,430mm.

Handling
Since the new Suzuki Swift Sport is the performance flagship of the Swift series, Suzuki pursued higher levels of chassis performance, achieving an exceptional balance of controllability and stability.

Greater toe and camber rigidity for the torsion beam, greater lateral rigidity in the torsion-beam bushings, and larger rear wheel bearings enhance stability at the rear under hard cornering. Increased spring rates for the front and rear coil springs and added rebound springs in the front struts significantly contribute to stability by providing greater roll stiffness. Modifications to the steering-gearbox member, suspension-frame member as well as larger front wheel bearings all boost yaw response, resulting in handling that has evolved even further from that of the previous Swift Sport.

Engine
The new Suzuki Swift Sport's M16A engine is based on that of the previous model. Thanks to the addition of a variable intake system, optimisation of the intake VVT and increased valve lift, maximum output is up from 92kW in the previous Swift Sport to an impressive 100kW with the new model. Maximum torque is up from 148Nm to 160Nm. As a result, the driver can enjoy superb performance across the rev range. The engine's high output is combined with improved fuel economy; CO2 emissions are down around 11 per cent from 165g/km to 147g/km and a revised exhaust system yields a sportier note.

Transmission
The new Suzuki Swift Sport's manual transmission was developed specifically to take full advantage of the M16A engine's performance. The use of six gears (up from five in the previous Swift Sport) allows sporty driving combined with fuel economy. A triple-cone synchromesh for first and second gears permits lower shift effort and a larger counterweight at the transmission end of the shift lever yields a sporty shift action that is now lighter and more positive.

Wheels and tyres
Exclusive 17-inch aluminium-alloy wheels are standard on the new Swift Sport. They have a sharp, exquisite design and are produced in such a way that they are each about 1kg lighter than those of the previous Swift Sport. The tyre sizes are 195/45R17 and have been developed specifically for the new Suzuki Swift Sport.

Safety
The new Suzuki Swift Sport represents an evolution in terms of safety. Comprehensive safety technologies mean it offers the same control and peace of mind as the new Swift, which earned a five-star rating in the European New Car Assessment Programme.

Extensive use of high-tensile steel and computerised structural analysis keep the body light while promoting safety, There are seven airbags (including curtain airbags and a driver's knee airbag), and the pillars incorporate shock-absorbing materials that soften any contact with occupants' heads.

Suzuki took a multifaceted approach to achieve higher levels of active safety. As a result, ESP® and an antilock braking system with electronic braking-force distribution are standard equipment.

2012 Maserati Kubang SUV

Above is live photos of Maserati Kubang SUV at the Frankfurt Motor Show . The car based on the same platform that underpins the new Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango, as well as the latest Mercedes-Benz ML-Class. Please jump to gets more info about Maserati Kubang.

The new Maserati Kubang designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro and introduced as concept car at the 2003 Detroit Auto Show. “An AT 8 speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings such as suspensions, brakes, steering will be exclusively developed in Modena for the Maserati sport luxury SUV by the Maserati Product Development Department,” the company added in a statement.

Subaru WRX, 2015

 

 

 

The all-new Subaru WRX (US specifications) has made its world premiere at the 2013 Los Angeles Auto Show being held at the Los Angeles Convention Center.

The product concept for the all-new Subaru WRX is "Pure Power in Your Control". Reigning in the intense power and superior environmental friendliness of the 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" engine with a body and chassis thoroughly stiffened, the new WRX has drivers rejoicing at the free reign they have over this high-powered machine. Also,along with the standard six-speed manual transmission, Sport Lineartronic has newly been adopted to the transmission. In addition to smooth shifting mode, the Sport Lineartronic comes with an eight-speed manual shift mode with sharp shifting response, allowing more drivers to enjoy a spirited drive.

Equipped with a Symmetrical AWD (All-Wheel drive) system built around Subaru's Boxer engine, the WRX is the symbol of Subaru AWD sport performance. Ever since the first model hit the streets back in 1992, the WRX has gained worldwide support from sports car enthusiasts as a distinctive sports sedan combining impressive sport performance with the practicality of a four-door sedan.

Pure Power in Your Control
The product concept "Pure Power in Your Control" was established during development of the new Subaru WRX. This concept aims to reach an even higher order of "absolute speed" and "driving excitement" for sports sedans, the goal pursued in successive generations of WRX models.This product concept was embodied to maximize the potential of the turbo Boxer engine and the pursuit of ultimate control performance, allowing drivers to steer the vehicle exactly as they imagine. To this end, the body has been made lighter and more rigid, integrating extensive chassis reinforcements.

Chassis and Body
Chassis and body performance have been thoroughly enhanced so that drivers can better control the absolute speed of combining Symmetrical AWD with a turbo Boxer engine.

Working to stiffen both body and suspension while optimizing suspension geometry has both quickened vehicle response to driver steering input and raised the limit performance for cornering. In addition, Multi-mode Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) and Active Torque Vectoring have been added for even more predictable, more enjoyable driving.

Many hours of in-depth suspension tuning have resulted in a flat, comfortable ride.

The electric power steering is employed with more rigid steering gearbox mounts for a improved fuel efficiency and a more direct steering feel.

The Engine
The Subaru WRX is equipped with a new high performance 2.0-liter Horizontally-Opposed direct injection turbo "DIT" engine for high power with environmental friendliness.

The DIT engine has vastly improved performance over the existing 2.5-liter model. It produces a maximum 268 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of torque from 2,000 to 5,200 rpm while maintaining high environmental performance.

The Transmission
This is the first time a manual transmission has been paired with the DIT Boxer engine.Also, the new optional Sport Lineartronic provides greatly improved shift response for a sportier ride than the existing Lineartronic applied for higher torque. This offers more drivers excellent environmental friendliness to go along with real sports driving excitement.

6-Speed Manual Transmission
The gear ratio and gear stick ratio have been optimized from the five-speed manual transmission to achieve better driveability and smoother shifting to match the sporty features of the WRX.

By widening the gear ratios from the existing five-speed manual transmission to keep engine speeds lower, it has better fuel economy and is quieter driving at high speeds.

Sport Lineartronic
The Sport Lineartronic draws out the full potential of the 2.0-liter DIT Boxer engine in terms of power, torque and environmental friendliness, allowing for relaxed, environmentally responsible driving.

Safety
Following Subaru's safety philosophy of "ALL-AROUND SAFETY", performance in all safety fields have been enhanced.

Active Safety
With Symmetrical AWD as a base, the body was lightened, rigidity improved and chassis performance enhanced along with VDC. All this gives the Subaru WRX the best hazard avoidance performance in its class, making driving excitement a safe endeavor in any scenario.

Passive Safety
The new WRX employs more high tensile steel plating with strengthened joints with various structures. While helping to reduce weight, these changes also make for a stronger body with world-class safety performance in collisions from the front, rear or sides.

In addition to assertively using collision-absorbing structure for the hood and bulkhead,collision-absorbing material has been added in the engine compartment side for increased pedestrian protection.

SsangYong LIV-1 Concept, 2013

 

SsangYong has unveiled the LIV-1 Concept car at the 2013 Seoul Motor Show in South Korea. The LIV-1 (Limitless Interface Vehicle) is a large SUV (sport utility vehicle) and features an easily controlled four wheel drive system via an interface.

Designed to look robust, purposeful and sporty, the car features a sizeable body with large bumpers front and rear, yet with slim A and B pillars, a glasshouse silhouette and full length glass roof. An automated sidestep is included for safety and convenience.

Very much a car for the future, the SsangYong LIV-1 Concept is designed for driving safety and pleasure with 'limitless potential' for the driver to create a driving environment that meets his or her needs.

Flexibility is the key design concept for the interior, where lines and curves come together to create a refined and inviting environment to achieve what is described as a lounge for the future. High gloss piano black on the centre fascia and contrasting aluminium detailing imbues the interior with the premium feel appropriate for a top-line SUV.

And as you would expect, this futuristic interior features all the latest technology to meet IT needs on the move. The car's driver-vehicle communication interface is based on the 3S-Cube, the core of SsangYong's future technology. This combines the elements of Smart Link, Safe Way and Special Sense to allow the vehicle to be remote-controlled using a smart device and to provide entertainment both within and from outside the vehicle.

Smart Link is a roof-and-glass system created from nano tube technology that removes frost quickly via remote control for safe winter driving, while Safe Way ensures safe driving by actively preventing collisions in blind spots and at intersections.

Special Sense allows the driver to arrange instrument cluster items to suit personal taste, the interface controlling the sound, seats and interior lighting to create a bespoke personal driving space.

User-vehicle interaction takes place through five displays, including a 10-inch monitor in the centre fascia and a 7-inch monitor in the headrest. The touch-panel displays featured in the LIV-1 provide clear information while continuing the futuristic theme.

SsangYong LIV-1 follows several recent concept cars from SsangYong, and along with the XIV (eXciting User-Interface Vehicle) series and SIV-1 (Smart Interface Vehicle) shown at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show, clearly illustrates the design direction the brand is taking and what can be expected in the future.

Smart fortwo, 2013

 

 

 

The spring of 2012 will see the smart fortwo making its mark in a striking new look, featuring an upgraded exterior and a fresh leather/fabric mix in the interior. The smart fortwo is available for ordering now. The first vehicles will reach dealers at the beginning of April 2012.

The substantially revamped smart fortwo sports a markedly more dynamic appearance, featuring a larger radiator grille with integrated logo, striking front aprons in a new design, horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lights, muscular side skirts and modified rear aprons. "The way in which the fortwo now displays the smart logo more prominently stands for the brand's new self-confidence," notes smart boss Dr Annette Winkler." The smart fortwo has long become an icon that is a defining feature of urban traffic throughout the world."

The chrome-coloured logo is now positioned directly in the black radiator grille. The air inlets under the number plate have been combined into a single unit, lending the smart fortwo a bolder appearance. The new, optionally available LED daytime driving lights are now arranged horizontally. There is also a choice of three new alloy wheels: the smart fortwo passion comes with a new 9-spoke alloy wheel; two additional alloy wheels fitted with wide tyres and featuring a 3-spoke and 3-twin-spoke design respectively round off the range. The choice of colours comprises seven options, including matt anthracite for the first time. The smart fortwo Brabus Xclusive is now also optionally available in white. In addition to the three soft top colours for the smart cabrio which were previously available from the smart programme (black, red, blue), the smart Brabus tailor made programme offers six other soft top colours.

While the main focus of this facelift is on the exterior, there are changes inside the car, too. These include a new, high-quality interior package in crystal grey, comprising a fresh leather/fabric combination for the seats, an imitation leather/fabric mix for the door trims and black imitation leather for the instrument panel in combination with a grey knee pad.

The pulse and passion equipment lines are generally more colourful options than the basic pure model. pulse and passion highlight the frame of the front grille and the rear trim strip in silver, for example, while the front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron are painted in the car's exterior colour. The door mirror caps are finished in the tridion colour. On the smart pure, these components are black.

The five lines - pure, pulse, passion, Brabus and Brabus Xclusive - are to be retained. Similarly, the smart fortwo will continue to be available as a coupé and cabrio version and with six engine and motor variants. The spectrum ranges from the particularly environment-friendly electric power train in the fortwo electric drive and the efficient micro hybrid petrol engine through the powerful turbo petrol engine to the fuel-efficient cdi turbodiesel. Prices begin at € 10,275 for the smart fortwo 45 kW mhd pure.

The new model generation represents the continuation of a unique success story for smart: as a trendsetter the smart fortwo has been redefining individual urban mobility for more than ten years now. It combines responsibility to the environment and high ecological standards with joie de vivre and a high fun factor. With its compact dimensions the two-seater takes up less road and parking space than any other car around.

More than 1.3 million smart fortwos have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. 101,996 smart fortwos were handed over to customers worldwide in 2011 - 4.6 percent more than in the previous year.

The car2go mobility service is also attracting growing numbers of fans. Over 2000 smart fortwos are currently in operation for 60,000 customers in seven cities around the globe. car2go is already successfully up and running in Ulm and Hamburg (Germany), Austin and San Diego (USA), Vancouver (Canada), Vienna (Austria) and Amsterdam (Netherlands). car2go will be launching in Lyon (France), Düsseldorf, Stuttgart, Washington D.C. and other cities in 2012.

2011 SMART fortwo

Smart fortwo

The new generation smart fortwo launches in the autumn of 2010 with a fresh interior look, an upgraded exterior and even more environmentally friendly engines. The range of colours available for the exterior now includes a trendy matt finish. Furthermore, the tridion safety cell is optionally available in white and the new colours red and blue expand the choice of colours available for the cabrio soft top. LED daytime driving lights and new alloy wheels offer even more opportunities for customisation. Fresh fabrics and colours and a new cockpit design determine the high quality interior ambience. The communication and entertainment systems feature cutting edge technology. The vehicles are powered by state-of-the-art petrol engines that have been further refined with the 45 and 52 kW versions emitting less than 100 g/km CO2 - a new benchmark. smart is celebrating the arrival of the new generation with a limited welcome model boasting high-class equipment.

The new generation of the innovative two-seater smart fortwo is even more attractive and environmentally friendly. Marc Langenbrinck, Managing Director smart brand says "We continue to work hard to make our smart models even better and more desirable in every respect. The new generation smart fortwo is perfect for our times. It is attractive and has style. It also boasts high quality materials, visible attention to detail, even more comfort and enhanced functionality. And don't forget that smart drivers often have an unconventional way of thinking and look for alternatives. The new generation smart fortwo with its wide range of engines and opportunities for customisation meets their requirements."

Fresh ideas for the exterior

A wider range of colours is available for the new generation smart fortwo for an even more striking appearance. Customers can now choose from seven exterior colours instead of the previous six - including a trendy matt finish. In addition to the new colour matt light green, light blue metallic will replace the previous blue metallic. In addition, the front spoiler, side skirts and the rear apron can be painted in the body colour on request. The fuel filler cap will be painted in the same colour as the body in future.

smart is further extending the choice of colours available for the smart fortwo with the new cabrio soft top colours red and blue and the tridion safety cell available in a brilliant white. In conjunction with the white tridion safety cell the door mirror surrounds and the radiator grille are painted white. These combination possibilities and modern colour constellations give the smart fortwo a completely new face.

The optional LED daytime driving lights are a special eye-catching detail. Three new 15 inch alloy wheels also bring fresh ideas to the area of design and styling.

Harmonious interior with a fresh feel-good atmosphere

The interior of the new generation smart fortwo has been redesigned and has a fresh and spacious feel-good atmosphere. The full fabric-covered instrument panel featuring new styling and new fabric designs contribute to this.

Further equipment features underline the attention to detail. These include new dials with a contrasting dark central disc in the instrument cluster and dashboard instruments, and an optional fabric-covered folding centre armrest. A 3-spoke leather steering wheel with cruise control function and a trip computer are available as options. Furthermore, customers can opt for new ambient lighting with dimmable LEDs to create a pleasant lighting atmosphere.

The new style is complemented by a whole host of clever stowage facilities and practical details. For example, a large stowage box is available as an option for the lower section of the centre console. The optional glove compartment includes a clip function for holding notes, for example, and seat pockets on the sides of the seats that come as standard offer additional practical stowage space. The new one-hand operation of the tailgate is a further practical detail that enhances comfort.

On the pulse of the times: information, communication and entertainment

Cutting edge communication and entertainment systems are available for the new generation smart fortwo. The new audio system navigation/multimedia is a real multimedia talent with a large 16.5 cm display, integrated navigation system, Bluetooth hands-free system, USB and AUX port for external devices and an interface for controlling an iPod. The new audio system basic also has a USB and AUX port for an MP3 or CD player.

The smart drive kit for the iPhone turns the popular phone into a multimedia trip computer that is optimised for the smart fortwo in terms of function and design. It includes the smart cradle for the iPhone and the smart drive app for the iPhone developed by smart and has all the important features needed when driving a car: phone calls via hands-free system, your own extensive music collection, internet radio and a clever navigation system with a special smart touch.

The new optional surround sound system offers a superior sound experience. A multi-channel digital amplifier with power output of 8x40 Watt and a perfectly matched loudspeaker system provide impressive sound.

New BRABUS features

The most striking change for the BRABUS und BRABUS Xclusive lines is the new rim design for the Monoblock VII alloy wheels. The BRABUS double-pipe rear muffler has also been modified.

The BRABUS interior design, too, has been modified in line with the new smart fortwo interior design. The instrument cluster now also features the new dial. The cruise control function is available as a new option.

Engines with lower fuel consumption and emissions

The engines of the new generation work more efficiently than ever before.

The 40 kW cdi turbodiesel is the CO2 champion with emissions of just 86 g/km. The optimised petrol engines also set new records with regard to CO2 emissions. Thanks to detailed work on the engine control unit and exhaust system both the 45 kW mhd and the 52 kW mhd consume 4.2 litres of petrol per 100 km (combined figure) - corresponding to CO2 emissions of 97 g/km (combined figure). The 62 kW version consumes 4.9 litres of fuel over 100 km (corresponding to CO2 emissions of 114 g/km). The power output of the BRABUS version has been increased from 72 kW to 75 kW. Despite this, at 119 g CO2 per 100 kilometres (combined figure) even the more powerful engine remains below the 120 gram threshold.

Limited special model "smart fortwo edition lightshine"

The smart brand is celebrating the introduction of the new generation fortwo with a limited welcome model boasting high quality equipment which continues the series of exciting special models. The smart fortwo edition lightshine is based on the passion equipment line which means that standard features include air conditioning, softouch and the bodypanel plus package. It is available in the new exterior colours matt light green or light blue metallic as a coupé and cabrio with a 52 kW mhd petrol engine, a 62 kW petrol engine or a 40kW cdi engine.

The special model boasts all the standard modifications implemented in the smart model refinement package. These include a new fabric-covered instrument panel with a new dial, new upholstery colours in design beige or design black, the fuel filler cap finished in the body colour and net pockets on the side bolsters between the seats.

Additional highlights of the special model are equipment features that are otherwise only available as options. For example, the high performance audio system navigation/multimedia including navigation and Bluetooth hands-free system, striking LED daytime driving lights and dashboard instruments.

And finally, equipment exclusive to the smart fortwo edition lightshine includes headlamp surrounds finished in the body colour, silver-grey painted 3-double-spoke 15" alloy wheels and the "edition" logo in the mirror triangle. Contrast components in matt chrome and velour floor mats with the "edition" logo further upgrade the interior.

The additional charge for the special model smart fortwo edition lightshine on top of the basic version is €2,065 with a metallic finish and €2,220 with the new matt light green finish (German list price incl. 19% VAT).

Trendsetter for environmentally friendly urban mobility

As a trendsetter the smart fortwo has been redefining individual urban mobility for more than ten years now. It combines responsibility to the environment and high ecological standards with joie de vivre and a high fun factor. With its compact dimensions the two-seater takes up an unrivalled amount of road and parking space. It boasts state-of-the-art functionality and uses future-oriented, environmentally friendly technologies to bring its occupants to their destination comfortably and safely.

Many successes confirm that smart is on the right track with its trend-setting "smart approach" - for example with regard to design: the smart fortwo received the coveted Red dot award for outstanding design and found a place in the New York Museum of Modern Art even before it took to the streets of the USA in 2008. Or with regard to ecology: emitting just 86 grams of CO2 per kilometre, the smart cdi is the CO2 champion and smart boasts the lowest fleet consumption. Furthermore, smart is a pioneer in the sector of electric vehicles and is redefining zero-emission urban mobility. Or innovative mobility: within the framework of the "car2go" project in Ulm and now also in the Texan capital of Austin, smart fortwos can be spontaneously rented by anyone around the clock for a small fee. This new mobility concept that won the ÖkoGlobe environmental award is extremely successful and makes driving in the city as easy as using a mobile phone. Or attitude to life: with the "smart urban stages" smart is creating temporary exhibition platforms in various cities for future-oriented projects that relate to ideas for the future of urban life.

Furthermore, exceptional economy remains a defining feature of the smart fortwo. According to calculations by the ADAC, the largest German automobile club, even the first generation of the charming two-seater was the most economical car on the German market. The verdict was that no other car is cheaper to run in Germany. The car magazine "Auto, Motor und Sport" also put the trendy two-seater at the top of its table of cost-efficient cars.

More than 1.2 million smart fortwos have been delivered to customers since the first model was launched in 1998. Today, customers in 43 countries on five continents are able to enjoy the popular car. In the course of 2010 the smart fortwo will be launched in Argentina and Indonesia - bringing the number of countries to 45.