2007 Porsche 911 Turbo & 911 GT3



Porsche has unleashed its latest 911 Turbo model which features 3,6 litre flat six turbocharged engine with a variable turbine geometry (VTG) that produces 480 hp and 66,1 kgm (or 480 lb ft) of torque.

This technology featured in turbocharged diesels since the '90s ensures a significant improvement of engine flexibility and acceleration particularly at low engine speeds. So far, however, much higher exhaust gas temperature of up to 1000° C in comparison with the turbocharged diesel has always proved to be an insurmountable barrier. But now Porsche has solved this problem in close cooperation with Borg Warner Turbo Systems by using high temperature-resistant materials from space technology wherever required.

The core features of the VTG system are the variable turbine blades guiding the flow of exhaust gas from the engine in exactly the direction required on to the turbine wheel of the exhaust gas turbocharger. The principle of variable turbine geometry thus combines the benefits of a small and large exhaust gas turbocharger all in one – a combination ensuring both very good response and high torque at low engine speeds as well as superior output and high performance at high speeds. And the supreme level of torque is now maintained consistently throughout a much wider speed range.

The 911 Turbo will be offered with two gearboxes, Tiptronic Auto & manual. According to Porsche, 0-100 km/h (62 mph) comes in 3,7 sec for the Tiptronic model and 3,9 for the Manual models while both reach a top speed of 315 km/h or 192 mph.

February 13th-Official Press Release:

World premiere of the new 911 Turbo at the Geneva Motor Show

Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, is extending its current product range with the addition of a new 911 Turbo. The sixth generation of the 911 series’ top-of-the-range model will be celebrating its world premiere on February 28, 2006 at the Geneva Motor Show and will be available in German dealerships as from June 24, 2006.


The 911 Turbo (Type 997) now has an output of 353 kW (480 bhp) at 6,000 revolutions per minute, 60 bhp more than its predecessor (Type 996). The specific output of the 3.6-litre boxer engine thus climbs to a new all-time high of 98 kW (133 bhp) per liter of displacement. Rated torque has been increased from 560 to 620 Newtonmeters. The speed range in which this power is available has also been extended. While the previous model’s maximum torque was available between 2,700 and 4,600 revolutions per minute, the corresponding figures are now 1,950 to 5,000 revs.

These improvements are translated into driving performance. The new 911 Turbo with six-speed manual transmission requires 3.9 seconds for the standard sprint from zero to 100 km/h. The coupé reaches the 200 km/h mark in 12.8 seconds. And just 3.8 seconds are all it takes for the most powerful series-built 911 model of all time to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. Despite these enhanced performance statistics, Porsche developers succeeded in reducing average fuel consumption by one tenth to 12.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

The 911 Turbo with the optionally available Tiptronic S automatic transmission puts in an even more impressive performance. An optimized setup gives the vehicle the wherewithal to power from zero to one hundred in just 3.7 seconds and to reach 200 km/h after a mere 12.2 seconds.

The Turbo with automatic transmission also has the advantage when it comes to flexibility. In penultimate gear it accelerates from 80 auf 120 km/h in 3.5 seconds. Fuel consumption by the Tiptronic S variant is 0.3 liters lower than that of its predecessor: 13.6 liters in accordance with the EU standard. Both transmission variants have a top speed of 310 km/h.


The vehicle’s flexibility can be enhanced even further with the optional “Sport Chrono Package Turbo”, available for the first time. Here the driver selects the “sports button” adjacent to the gear lever to activate a short-time “overboost” at full throttle. This increases boost pressure in the mid speed range by 0.2 bar for up to ten seconds; torque rises by 60 to 680 Newtonmeters. The time required by the 911 Turbo with manual transmission for intermediate acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h is reduced by 0.3 seconds to 3.5 seconds.

These performance figures owe themselves to exhaust turbochargers with variable turbine geometry, featuring for the first time in a gasoline engine model. At the heart of this technology are adjustable guide blades, which direct the engine exhaust flow variably and precisely onto the turbine wheel of the exhaust turbocharger. The principle of variable turbine geometry unites the advantages of small and large exhaust turbochargers and leads to a discernable improvement in flexibility and acceleration, particularly at low speeds.

To transfer the available power to the road, the new generation of the 911 Turbo features a redesigned all-wheel drive with an electronically controlled multi-disc clutch. Porsche Traction Management (PTM) ensures variable power distribution to the two driven axles. Depending on the driving conditions, the all-wheel electronics system constantly determine the optimal torque distribution to ensure the best-possible drive. In practice this translates as high agility on narrow country roads, outstanding traction in rain and snow and optimal active safety even at high speeds. These properties make the Porsche Traction Management system in the new 911 Turbo one of the most powerful and, at the same time, lightest all-wheel systems on the market.

The new 911 Turbo’s driving performance is duly tempered by its brake system, which comprises monobloc fixed-caliper disc brakes with six pistons at the front axle and four at the rear.

In comparison with the Type 996, the diameter of the internally ventilated and perforated brake discs at the front and rear wheels has been increased by 20 millimeters to 350 millimeters. As an option, Porsche is also offering its optimized ceramic brake system, PCCB (Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake). The advantages of this high-tech material mean a reduction of 17 kilograms compared to the standard brake system, excellent fading stability owing to consistent friction values and absolute corrosion resistance. The brakes now have a diameter of 380 millimeters at the front axle and 350 millimeters at the rear.

A characteristic design feature of the new 911 Turbo is the modified front end with its distinctive, tautly drawn cooling air inlets. In conjunction with the standard-equipment oval bi-xenon headlights, they define its unmistakable image. The harmonious front view is enhanced by widely placed and deep-set fog lights and by new LED flashers, which are situated in the lateral air inlets of the front end. From the rear perspective too, the Turbo takes on a more powerful appearance. This is due first and foremost to its tail end, 22 millimeters wider than that of the previous model, to which the redesigned wing spoiler element has been aligned. It now slopes downward slightly at the sides to nestle into the contours of the rear fenders. The lateral air inlets behind the doors have also been redrawn and, together with the new air ducts, afford a more efficient supply of cooling air to the charge-air intercoolers.

The basic Euro price for the 911 Turbo is 115,000 Euros. In Germany it is available for 133,603 Euros including value added tax and country-specific requirements. In the USA the 911 Turbo is priced at 122,900 Dollars (not including taxes), and will be available as from July 8, 2006.

In addition to the 911 Turbo, as a special surprise at the Geneva Motor Show, Porsche will be presenting another world premiere: the new 911 GT3.

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2007 Ferrari 599 GTB


2007 Ferrari 599 GTB

These pictures that leaked in the internet where taken during the official presentation of Ferrari’s new 599 GTB, its most powerful V12-engined production car of all time. Here we get to see GTB’s interior for the first time.

The new Italian thoroughbred boasts a class-leading power thanks to its 5,999cc V12 - derived directly from the Enzo Ferrari supercar - producing 620hp at 7,600 rpm for a weight/power ratio of just 2.6 kg per horsepower.

Ferrari has adopted the latest evolution in its tried and tested all-aluminium construction technology for the body and chassis.

Designed by Pininfarina, the Ferrari 559 GTB strays away from the quite subtle (for a Ferrari…) lines of the 575M Maranello.

The new car will be officially unveiled on the 28th of February 2006 at the Geneva Motor Show.

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Lotus Exige S


The fastest accelerating Lotus ever to come off the production line

A small lightweight sportscar weighing just 935 kg (2057 lbs), powered by a 162.5 kW (218 hp, 221 PS) high revving supercharged engine, giving a zero to 100 km/h time of just 4.3 seconds (0 - 60 mph in 4.1 seconds). It comes straight off the production line and isn't an "aftermarket special".

Is this the quickest ever real-world production car?

It is certainly the quickest Lotus production car - so far!

The Lotus Exige S is the latest addition to the Exige range and is a real sportscar that redefines the term "Extreme Performance". With 90.5 kW / litre (121.4 hp / litre, 123 PS / litre), it is one of most powerful production cars in the world for its engine size but most importantly it has full type approval for all the markets in which it will be sold. The Lotus Exige S is not a limited edition, nor is it an aftermarket special - it is manufactured from start to finish in the world leading and award winning Lotus Manufacturing facility at Hethel, Norfolk.

Because the basic car is so immensely strong but lightweight (935 kg, 2057 lbs), giving a power to weight ratio of 173.8 kW/tonne (233.2 hp/tonne, 236.4 PS/tonne), performance is phenomenal, with 100 km/h being reached from a standing start in 4.3 seconds (0 - 60 mph in 4.1 seconds) and 160 km/h (100 mph) being reached in 9.98 seconds (estimate) before topping out at 238 km/h (148 mph). Inspite of this phenomenal performance the fuel economy is impressive with an official combined figure of 9.1 litres / 100 km (31.0 mpg) - extra urban is an impressive 7.2 litres / 100 km (39.2 mpg).

Lotus believes that there is no car on sale anywhere in the world that has such good performance combined with such good fuel economy! Not that many customers will be buying this car principally for its fuel economy!!

Being a Lotus, straight-line performance is not the most important factor, but every day driving on normal roads, or around a circuit is. There are very few cars on sale today that can match the speed, agility and safety of the Exige S in both day to day and track or circuit driving.

However the Exige S is not just a track day warrior. It is a sportscar that would be at home on the back roads, freeways and autobahns, as well as on city streets. With an extremely "torquey" engine and the classic Lotus suspension set-up of soft compliant springs and firm controllable dampers, the driving experience is an uncanny combination of telepathic-like handling with a taught and comfortable ride. There is really no car that handles quite like a Lotus.

Clive Dopson, Managing Director of Lotus Cars says, "The Exige S represents the ultimate "extreme" production Lotus, with performance that trumps other supercars costing twice or even three times as much. That it does so with the fuel economy of a family hatchback, stands as a testament to the Lotus concept of performance through light weight. Its an unbeatable package and an unbeatable drive."

Prices (Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price):
UK: £33,995 including VAT
Mainland Europe: 44,147 Euros excluding individual market taxes
Japan: JYP 6,909,000 including tax

Market Availability
UK: March / April 2006
Mainland EU: April / May 2006
Japan and APac: May / June 2006
USA: There are currently no plans to launch the Exige S in the USA

LOTUS EXIGE S SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE

Type

Mid-mounted, transverse, 1796 cm3, 2ZZ-GE 4 cylinders in line engine

Max Power

162.5 kW (218 hp, 221 PS) @ 7800 rpm

Max Torque

215 Nm (158.6 lb ft, 22 kgf m) @ 5500 rpm

Power to weight ratio

173.8kW/t ( 233.2hp/t, 236.4PS/t )

Specific power output

90.5 kW/litre (121.4 hp/litre, 123 PS/_)

Performance Figures

PERFORMANCE

0-60 mile/h

4.1 sec

0-100 mile/h

9.98 sec

0-100 km/h

4.3 sec

0-160 km/h

9.98 sec

Maximum speed

148 mph 238 km/h

Fuel consumption - urban

12.3 litre/100 km ( 22.9 mpg (UK) )

Fuel consumption - extraurban

7.2 litre/100 km ( 39.2 mpg (UK) )

Fuel consumption - combined

9.1 litre/100 km ( 31.0 mpg (UK) )

C02 emissions

216 g/km

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHTS

Wheelbase

2300 mm

Overall length

3797 mm

Overall width (without mirrors)

1727 mm

Overall height

1163 mm

Weight

935 / 949 kg

Weight distribution

38% Front - 62% Rear

Fuel tank capacity

43.5 litre ( 9.6 gal (UK) )

Luggage capacity

112 litre - 50 kg

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2007 Mazda Tribute facelift


Mazda took the wraps off its facelift Tribute SUV at the Melbourne International Motor Show. Boasting a new look in and out, the updated Tribute will continue its career along with Mazda’s other 4x4, the all new CX-7 which will appeal to buyers looking more for a crossover vehicle rather than an SUV. To be honest, I’m not so sure customers can trace the difference between an SUV, a CUV or a Crossover…

PRESS RELEASE: On sale from mid year, the new-look Tribute range is instantly recognisable with the SUV wagon’s front end completely reworked for a sleeker, more sophisticated appearance.

With redesigned front sheet metal, the new Tribute blends the original vehicle’s rugged, athletic appeal with a more refined “face”.

A mesh grille, incorporating a larger Mazda logo, new clear-finish headlamps and reprofiled front bumper with integrated bumper guard, help blend the Tribute’s more sophisticated look with traditional SUV cues

The bonnet is a fresh pressing and features sharper, cleaner cut lines that flow into, and blend with, the new grille and headlamps. Tighter panel gaps and new-wheels also add to the Tribute’s higher quality look.


Inside, the changes are just as bold with the previous column shifter replaced by a floor-mounted gear lever.

The centre dash has been completely redesigned to be more functional and aesthetically pleasing, while new-look instruments, door trims and seat fabrics add a more integrated and upmarket ambience.

The cabin is quieter with redesigned mirrors, which incorporate turn repeater lamps, reducing wind noise.

Mechanical changes to the SUV wagon’s 152 kilowatt 3.0-litre V6 engine and drivetrain have improved average fuel economy by a significant 10.6 per cent.

The upgrades have cut the V6-powered Tribute’s average fuel consumption from 12.2L/100km to 10.9L/100km on the ADR 81/01 test cycle.

The 2.3-litre four-cylinder powered model offers better low and mid-speed torque delivery and an electronic throttle for a smoother acceleration feel. Both engines pass clean Euro III emission regulations.

Tribute’s safety equipment, which continues to include standard ABS anti-lock brakes and dual front and front side airbags, has been upgraded with the centre rear seat passenger now protected by a lap/sash seatbelt and headrest.

Braking has also been improved with the superseded model’s disc/drum system replaced by an all-disc setup incorporating bigger diameter brakes front and rear. The suspension has been retuned.

“With the new Tribute making its global debut today in Melbourne and the news that the CX-7 crossover will arrive this year rather than next, further demonstrates that Australia is a key market for Mazda and that we intend to strengthen and extend our range beyond our class leading passenger car line-up”, said Doug Dickson, managing director of Mazda Australia..

“By late this year Mazda will, for the first time, have two strong competitors in the all-important SUV market”.

Mazda had sold almost 30,000 Tributes in Australia to the end of 2005. Pricing and detail specification of the new Tribute will be confirmed at launch time.

The updated SUV shares the Mazda motor show stand with the MX-Crossport concept on which the CX-7 is closely based and the class leading Mazda passenger car range.

Last year saw the facelifted Mazda2, updated Mazda6 and the top-selling Mazda3 sedan and hatch post record sales, placing Mazda in the record books as the first full-line importer to finish fourth in the Australian market.


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Bertone Coupe-Cabrio Concept (Fiat Grande Punto)


A concept car that interprets the coupé-cabriolet theme with aggressive elegance. This is what will be given its world debut by Bertone at the 76th Geneva International Motor Show (2-12 March 2006).

The new Bertone-designed concept, as always the result of styling research above and beyond the dictates of fashion, interprets the theme of the sports car with retractable hard top in a quite new way. Developed on a Fiat Grande Punto base, the Bertone concept slots into the compact car market (segment B) while being at the same time an absolute novelty in so far as this segment contains no retractable hard top coupĂ©-cabriolets with four “real” seats. This concept in fact sets a new benchmark in terms of interior space and quality of life on board: the cabin layout is the result of meticulously attentive volumetric and ergonomic studies geared to levels of comfort and roominess comparable only to a higher segment car.

The styling research, developed by Bertone in a coupĂ©-type vehicle, stands out for its highly dynamic graphics: sloping front, high waistline, snug, muscular tail. This concept car is an evolution of one of Bertone’s pet themes: the open sports car accessible to the young and to the public at large, nippy and manoeuvrable, with a strong personality.

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2007 Toyota Tundra Full Size Pickup


Bigger and brawnier, Toyota’s all new Tundra Full Size Pickup follows the saying “If you can’t beat them, you might as well join them” as it follows the American way in terms of size, styling and engine capacities. Looks great to me, but I wonder where Toyota’s “ecological” sensitivity went this time….

World Premiere of All-New Tundra Full-Size Pickup at 2006 Chicago Auto Show

February 9, 2006 Chicago - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new next-generation Tundra full-size pickup truck at a press conference today at the 2006 Chicago Auto Show.

The Tundra was first introduced in 1999 as a 2000 model. Since then, it has won numerous awards and has been recognized for its value, quality and reliability. The completely redesigned 2007 Tundra will be bigger, more powerful and will offer new body and engine configurations.

"From bumper-to-bumper, under the hood and from the inside out the new Tundra is a true American truck that will set a new benchmark in the full-size truck segment," said Jim Lentz, TMS group vice president and general manager. "It will be aimed at the True Trucker,' the true opinion leaders among full-size owners. True Truckers are highly credible because they use, punish, and demand the most out of the pickups they buy."

The expanded size and power of the new Tundra will be reflected in its ability to tow over 10,000 pounds. To achieve this towing capacity every major component was designed for maximum strength, durability and reliability over the long haul. This will be accomplished with an all-new 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine manufactured at Toyota's Alabama engine plant. The V8 will be mated to a new heavy-duty six-speed automatic transmission. In addition to the new powertrain, Tundra will also come equipped with heavy-duty front disc brakes with four-piston calipers and vented rotors increased by nearly one and one-half inches, and standard rear disc brakes. High capacity cooling and electrical systems will help Tundra tow heavy loads through the toughest weather. Finally, Tundra will ride on a new rock-solid chassis platform with 30 percent higher tensile strength steel.

Development of the new Tundra was spearheaded by Toyota's U.S.-based facilities. Product planning began at TMS headquarters in Southern California. All engineering development was directed by the Toyota Technical Center in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Styling, inside and out, was the work of Toyota's Calty Research and Design Centers in Newport Beach, California and Ann Arbor, Michigan. Finally, the new Tundra will be built at Toyota Motor Manufacturing in Princeton, Indiana and Toyota's new truck plant in San Antonio, Texas.

Tundra has been super-sized in every metric of comparison with the vehicle it replaces. Its all-new, full-size platform will feature a significantly expanded wheelbase and an increase of 10 inches in overall length. Tundra will also gain nearly five inches in height and will be four full inches wider than before, placing it among the segment leaders in overall size.

Buyers of the new Tundra will have a choice of three engines. In addition to the new 5.7-liter V8, the capable 4.0-liter V6 and the legendary 4.7-liter i-Force V8, both also built in Alabama, will be available.

The new Tundra will come in three cab configurations. It will retain its three-grade strategy with the Base, SR5 and well-appointed Limited trim levels. In all, Tundra will be offered in more than 30 different models, nearly double the current generation.

Calty designers set out to complement the new Tundra's increased size by creating a design with bold, brave and distinctive character lines that are different from anything on the road today. From the front, the new Tundra features a bold front grille, strong bumper and large headlights with a steely glare, conveying a strong and powerful physical presence. The profile reveals a thicker body and taller doors with character lines and fender flares that add dimension and strength as well as an unwavering stance.

Tundra's powerful and rugged exterior styling characteristics extend to the inside. A "command and control" center provides an unobstructed view of the instrument panel and puts knobs, switches and buttons within close reach of the driver.


All Tundra models will feature a class-leading, roomy passenger cabin providing front passengers with four inches more shoulder room. Two-row models will offer rear passengers nearly three inches more shoulder. Front passengers will receive nearly four more inches of hip room while rear passengers will enjoy six inches of additional hip room. Interior storage capacity is increased with the addition of hidden storage compartments, second-row seats that double as work surfaces (two-row models only), and a larger center console box.

For buyers who use their Tundra as a work truck quick and easy access to the truck bed is essential. The new Tundra will feature a tailgate that can be opened and closed with just two fingers. Robust dampers on the hinges have been added to help cushion the tailgate when opening and also help reduce bouncing when driving with the tailgate down. Other design features with workers in mind include large door handles, inside and out, easy-to-turn HVAC knobs, and adjustable headrests, allowing drivers and passengers to ride to their next work site without having to remove protective gear such as hardhats or gloves.

Designers also had safety in mind with the addition of extra large side mirrors to provide a wide field of view, while reducing wind noise and image vibration, always important when towing precious cargo. Additionally, a trailer hitch will be integrated into the Tundra's frame for better stability when handling heavy loads.

The Tundra will be loaded with standard-equipped comfort and convenience features. An array of options and accessories will also be offered, such as a JBL premium audio system with Bluetooth telephone compatibility, 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and a wide-screen backup camera integrated into the tailgate handle for enhanced rear-view safety.

"As much as the new Tundra has changed, there are a few things that remain the same," said Jim Press TMS president and COO. "Tundra will again offer the most comfortable, quiet and refined ride in the full-size truck segment. Its build quality, reliability, and durability will, again, be second to autoofcars2011.blogspot."

The all-new Tundra will arrive in dealer showrooms in early 2007.

2007 TUNDRA PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

DIMENSIONS (inches)

Overall length: 228.7

Overall width: 79.9

Overall height: 76.4

Wheelbase: 145.7

TRUCK BED DIMENSIONS (inches)

Bed length 78.7

Bed width (at wheel wells) 65.0

Bed width (between wheel wells): 50.0

Bed width (wall-to-wall): 65.0

Bed depth: 22.3

Dodge Rampage Concept Vehicle

2006 Dodge Rampage Concept Vehicle—The Only Things It Can't Load More of Are Style and Versatility

Bold, powerful and supremely versatile, the new Dodge Rampage concept vehicle is a fresh look at how many families actually use the popular pickup trucks.

"It's the truck for the non-traditional buyer," said Scott Krugger, principal exterior designer. "This is a truck for the person who wants the functional aspects of a truck yet doesn’t want a traditional vehicle. The Rampage has the capability of a pickup without sacrificing occupant space."

Combining the width of a Dodge Ram with the overall length of a Dodge Dakota, the Rampage features a host of people and cargo-carrying innovations made possible by a combination of unitized body construction, front-wheel drive, and unique independent rear wheel suspension. And, as with any Dodge concept, the appearance is striking.

In order to achieve their twin objectives of a family-size passenger cabin and exceptional pickup utility, the designers dramatically reconfigured the proportions of the truck. The largest portion of the Rampage is devoted to the spacious passenger cabin, followed by the five-foot cargo box, and last, the engine compartment (which still accommodates a 5.7-liter MDS HEMI® under the abbreviated hood). To visually reinforce the fact that the majority of the vehicle is dedicated to passengers and cargo, a slim appliquĂ© of brushed aluminum runs along the cowl, up and over the roof rails and around the top of the cargo box, a shimmering silver ribbon that contrasts dramatically with the Liquid Carbon exterior.

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Toyota Aurion & FPC Concept


The Melbourne Motor Show hosted the preview of the all new Aussie designed Toyota Aurion. With this car, which will replace, the not so successful, Avalon, Toyota Australia is hoping it will cement its “Down-Under” manufacturing future

The Aurion – its name means “tomorrow” in modern & ancient Greek – was designed to apparently suit Australia’s large car tastes and compete with rivals such as the Ford Falcon and Holden Commodore.

Although those cars send power to the rear wheels, the Aurion is a front wheeled model. Toyota is hoping the styling, will win fans where the Avalon failed.

While Toyota will pitch the Aurion as a true Aussie large car, actually, it is based on the Camry, something that also happened with the Avalon. The Aurion will have the same interior space as a Camry, although revised seating and a new look to the interior provide differentiation.

Other than the look, the main difference between the Aurion and the Camry will be the engines as the new Camry will be exclusively 4-cylinder while the Aurion will get a 3.5-litre V6 VVTi.

Latter the range will get a sport model equipped with a supercharged version of the 3.5 V6 VVTi that will produce, according to Toyota, over 260 hp, so Toyota can compete in the large performance sedan market dominated until now by Holden and Ford, both of which wear V8 engines.


TOYOTA AURION – A NEW STAR ON THE AUSTRALIAN AUTOMOTIVE HORIZON

Toyota has previewed a new Australian-built six-cylinder sedan that promises to redefine the large car market. The sedan, named Aurion, has been designed with unprecedented input from Toyota Style Australia (TSA). Aurion means “tomorrow” in Ancient Greek. The name also has overtones of Australia and Aurora – Latin for “the dawn”.

The Aurion has classic Australian family sedan proportions and will have the power to match. It is scheduled for launch in the fourth quarter of this year.

The Aurion range, which will replace the discontinued Avalon in Australia, will introduce new technology and safety features to the large car market.

The model line-up will cater for a wide variety of customer tastes in the private, fleet and prestige market segments.

Toyota is showing the new Aurion sedan at the Melbourne International Motor Show this week. The stand also includes two show vehicles that hint at possible styling cues for the Aurion sports and performance models.

The Aurion features new exterior styling themes penned by TSA’s lead designer, Nick Hogios, working in collaboration with Japanese and Taiwanese designers.

Its development was undertaken simultaneously in Japan and Australia at the TSA design studio in Melbourne.

“The Aurion ensures that Toyota Australia has significant separation between our locally manufactured four-cylinder medium and six-cylinder large cars,” Toyota Style Australia (TSA) Chief Designer Paul Beranger said. “This vehicle will allow us to grow our share of the large car market. Australian retail customers and fleets alike are looking for an alternative to the big two in this segment.

“Aurion has what the large car buyer demands: muscular proportions and a performance package that will be very competitive with local rivals.

“On top of those two key attributes, there will be the added benefit of Toyota quality, durability and reliability.

“The car will also adopt leading technology from our luxury brand, Lexus.

“Local styling clinics suggest very strongly that we have connected with large car customers in terms of styling.

“Australians aspire to sophisticated European design tastes and the new Aurion has very elegant yet muscular proportions.”

Mr Beranger said the Aurion was evidence of a growing Australian design influence in Toyota.

“This project has put Toyota Style Australia on the map with our parent company and we are confident we can increase our level of influence on future models,” he said.

TOYOTA AURION FUTURE PERFORMANCE CONCEPT (FPC)

Toyota has given the Australian public a first glimpse of its new Australian-designed performance sedan.

The Toyota stand at this year’s Melbourne International Motor Show features a partial reveal of the Aurion Future Performance Concept (FPC).

The concept model is a pointer to a new Aurion-based performance sedan, due for local launch in the first half of 2007.

Styled by Toyota Style Australia and developed by Toyota Australia engineers, the performance model will be unique in the Toyota world.

It will sit above the sports model in the Aurion range.

Toyota Australia Executive Chairman John Conomos said the motor show display was designed to whet the public appetite for Toyota performance vehicles.

“Our display at this show is a strong statement of Toyota Australia’s styling and performance engineering capability. Both the Sportivo Concept model and the FPC on the stand have been designed by our stylists here in Australia,” Mr Conomos said.

The FPC display gives subtle hints about the car’s aggressive body and wheel design.

“The styling cues are more subtle than overt. They give an indication of the character of the car. The emphasis will be on refined performance and advanced technology,” Mr Conomos said.

Powered by a sports-tuned supercharged 3.5-litre V6, the Aurion performance derivative will offer a complete package with the accent on excitement and athletic driving dynamics.

The supercharged engine will be displayed on the Toyota stand.

Specially developed and tuned by a team of Toyota Australia engineers working closely with local suppliers, the supercharged version of Toyota’s 2GR-FE engine draws on motor sport engineering principles to deliver a new level of refined power and responsiveness to the performance car market.

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