2012 Volvo XC90 Official Review

In 2012, Volvo XC90, shown for the first time in New York International Auto Show, has a more car-like design, a redesigned interior, a brand new Volvo 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, and of course improvements to the legendary Volvo safety.
The Volvo XC90 SUV shot the scene in 2003 with a series of innovations in the premium SUV segment. Now, four years later, Volvo Car Corporation is introducing more XC90 with its fixed on the segment to the next level.
"We are moving deliberately upward in the premium segment. To make the highly successful XC90 even more attractive, we have raised the luxury quotient of the vehicle and passenger car like comfort," says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO Volvo Cars.
The new 2012 XC90 is intended to strengthen Volvo Cars' position in an SUV market that has received rave reviews vehicle, quickly becoming "The Next Generation SUV."

"We have listened keenly to our customers and refined the vehicle to improve our competitive position on both sides of the Atlantic. We already have a winning concept, so the goal was to refine rather than making major changes, "said Jean Arp. "Lines improved, more sophisticated materials and a better driving experience without compromising on safety requirements and good environmental performance of the powertrain," says Arp.

Volvo XC90 has been and continues to be a huge sales success for Volvo Cars. Of its original volume estimated annual 50,000 units was successively increased production to meet demand. In 2005, the production of the XC90, the Torslanda plant in Sweden was approaching 90 000 units.
A new, enhanced Volvo XC90 will start production in spring 2006, arriving in showrooms in the United States during the summer. In the United States is still the largest single market model, which account for 50 percent of total sales.

New, advanced in-line six engine
Since the introduction XC90 engines are gradually refined, resulting in entirely new engine variants.
Replacing the power of 208, five-cylinder turbo will be a new 3.2-liter inline six. The new engine uses the latest technology to keep the same exterior dimensions and fuel consumption as a five-cylinder unit.
The engine, which consists primarily of aluminum, is rated at 235 horsepower and 236 lb.-ft. of torque.
The 2007 XC90 is available with V8 Volvo compactness and energy efficiency (311 hp, 325 lb / ft of torque). The two lines of six and V8 engines will be mated to a six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission and the Volvo AWD system with Instant Traction.

"With the state of the art six and eight cylinders in the United States, we will use a customer segment much broader," says Hans Wikman, Vice President Vehicle Line Large car at Volvo Car Corporation.

The new six-cylinder engine is designed to provide excellent throttle response and performance in a wide range of conditions, key factors in the experience of driving a luxury SUV. At the same time, the engine delivers good fuel economy. For security reasons collision, the engine is designed with extremely compact dimensions and installed in the engine compartment.

The valve train features Variable Cam Timing (VCT) and Cam Profile Switching (CPS) to control valve lift and duration on the inlet side - two key elements in providing the engine with excellent flexibility. CPS determines valve lift, the system checks the length of CTV over a wide operating range.
With CPS, the camshaft lifts the inlet valves at two different heights depending on engine speed and load. In normal driving butterfly with small openings and engine speed, fuel consumption is moderate, but torque is sufficient to provide good maneuverability.
Variable Intake System (VIS) allows adjustment of the intake manifold according to the current driving situation, which is used to extract the maximum power throughout the entire engine speed range.

Compact high-security incident
Although the 3.2-liter engine, but it is also very compact. Its small size allows the engine to occupy a minimal amount of space under the hood, which reduces the risk of intrusion into the cabin of a collision.

 Compact size of the engine were obtained by placing the associated components, such as the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor behind the engine and transmission before. The alternator is direct-driven and fitted with an engine block. In addition, vibration damper, which compensates for vibrations of the crankshaft with six-cylinder relatively long, has been integrated into the engine block.

Exterior with slimmer, Scandinavian lines
The main objective of the design changes for 2007 XC90 was to create a more modern, Scandinavian style only. This is achieved through a series of changes, including a new grille with more chrome and bumpers with a greater degree of color coding. The taillights have been redesigned and the reflectors of the bumper are recessed in a chrome trim.

All versions of the XC90, are now color-coded side trim moldings and door handles. Optional internal lists new wheels are painted the color of the car body. Mirrors are partially stained and now integrates the repeater indicators. At the same time, a new indicator function has been put in place quickly to push the flashing turn indicator three times. This feature first appeared in the current generation of S40 and V50.

Two new body colors, Electric Silver metallic blue XC90-unique Shadow, provide greater choice, as well as Camulus new 18-inch wheels, aluminum (also unique in the XC90). All magazines now adorned with the classic Volvo emblem in the center.

As an alternative to black roof rails, brushed aluminum can be specified as an option.

Interior with an elegant touch and more options, a number of changes have been implemented, giving the interior a more exclusive will. There are new color combinations and a wider range to choose from.

For example, increasing the interior with a high quality finish feel added to the new directory design. The most exclusive alternative is the new perforated leather cover with contrast stitching sewing Sovereign.

The center console has been upgraded to a new screen and aluminum-effect trim. New trim panels, with Sapeli Wood added the ability to give customers more choice and distribute elegant Scandinavian touch to interior design.

There are additional options in the form of a set of instruments with a watch dial-inspired design and an interior mirror with integrated compass.

The improved navigation system and world-class audio system The navigation system has been improved for better performance, ease of use and provides more information on the cities and places than before.

The sound of high-end Premium now includes an ICE power digital amplifier from Alpine and Dynaudio speakers. The new amplifier and speakers to further enhance the effectiveness of Dolby Surround Pro Logic II for a truly world-class audio.
In systems of high performance and high quality is now possible to play music CDs in MP3 and WMA (Windows Media Audio). All audio systems will be equipped with an extra input (AUX) for connecting external devices such as an iPod.

"When the Volvo XC90 was initially developed, our goal was to provide an exceptionally high level of safety for all passengers in the car," says Wikman. "All test results show that we succeeded."

Volvo XC90 is a modern SUV, built like a car with a monocoque body, effective deformation / energy absorption zones, a low center of gravity and advanced systems to minimize the risk of injury, no matter what situation or collision . In addition, the XC90 has multiple advanced systems to prevent accidents in the first place.

"The United States has launched the redesign of the Volvo XC90, 2007, preventive safety is the main area of ​​development and we are focused on driver control," says Wikman.
Active Bi-Xenon headlights to promote better visibility when driving on winding roads dark, Bi-Xenon headlamp beams to manipulate the curve to follow the path. A microprocessor is used to measure and analyze multiple parameters (speed, steering angle, etc.) and optimize the lightweight design is perfect for these conditions. Headlamps can be rotated up to 15 degrees in either direction. Reducing energy consumption, the system automatically shuts off during the day.

The Volvo XC90 is also equipped with BLIS Information System (Blind Spot). Using cameras integrated into side mirrors, BLIS registers whether another vehicle has entered the XC90 offset rear blind spots. If so, is there a light in the relevant mirror to alert drivers and help them make the right decision to avoid a collision help the driver better control of the driving situation.

It helps to protect someone is standing behind the car and support the parking, Volvo Cars presents Park Assist Camera. The system will not only give the driver an extra eye out, also shows the planned track when reversing the vehicle.

A wide-angle camera shows the area behind the XC90. The image displayed on the navigation screen above the dashboard and shows the largest area possible without excessive distortion. The photo also shows the projected path that the vehicle will maneuver the turn, changes with the movements of the steering wheel. Park Assist Camera is a fully integrated feature of the XC90 and should be ready for delivery to customers in the fall of 2006.

The changes we made to the new Volvo XC90 can be regarded as fine tuning designed to increase the attractiveness of the vehicle," says Wikman. "Our goal is a very demanding group of buyers and we want to give a superior experience, even better."
The descriptions and specifications in this press release regarding the collection of the Volvo International. Vehicle specifications may vary from country to country, and are subject to change without notice.

Price Range : 38,400$ - 44,300$

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2012 Toyota Prius v Official Review & Photos

The newest entrant in a growing Prius family of hybrid vehicles, the Prius v delivers an unparalleled blend of versatility and fuel efficiency in a comfortable, mid-size package. 

A new evolution in hybrid vehicles with excellent cargo space and Prius’ heritage of environmental performance and fuel economy, the 2012 Prius v will go on sale in Fall 2011.

The new Prius v, with “v” expressing the vehicle’s versatility, will meet the needs of growing families with active lifestyles while providing the same attributes traditionally found in the Prius DNA. Despite the spaciousness of a family friendly midsize vehicle, the Prius v will deliver estimated EPA fuel economy ratings of 44 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 42 mpg combined.

“The Prius v brings leading-edge hybrid technology to customers who need more room and provides more cargo space than 80 percent of all small SUVs,” said Toyota Division Group Vice President and General Manager Bob Carter. “And because it’s a Prius, it produces 66 percent fewer smog-forming emissions than the average new vehicle and will have the best mileage ratings of any SUV, crossover, or wagon sold in America. We think that’s a win-win for everybody.”

The Prius v will be utilizing the same proven Hybrid Synergy Drive system as the third-generation Prius, with the advantages of high mileage, low emissions, and never needing to be recharged.

A product of the same culture of innovation that spawned the original Prius 14 years and two-million units ago, the Prius v follows family tradition with new technologies and equipment advances that continues to raise the bar on the cutting edge automotive science.

The Prius v emphasizes overall proportion with spaciousness and flexibility for active families. Comfortable interior space and good visibility have been assisted by a high seating position, ample head room, and an impressive 38-inch couple distance, providing generous rear legroom. A low, wide-opening rear hatch reveals 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, making it the most spacious dedicated hybrid vehicle on the market.

Comfortable seating for five is specifically designed for young families. Sliding second row seats allow for easier ingress and egress and rear-storage flexibility, with a 45-degree recline for greater comfort. The 60/40 split, folding rear seats present four different seat arrangements that provide excellent usability for passengers and luggage, while a fold-flat front-passenger seat allows for extremely long cargo.

The driver is kept informed via a center-mounted instrument panel, a visually succinct, space-efficient design that is also exceptionally user-friendly. As with other Prius models, the driving controls including Push Button Start, parking switch, drive-by-wire shift toggle, and driving mode buttons are immediately at hand. Each of these driving control features are distinguished by silver trim. Instrument-panel controls, including a single dial automatic climate control, provide an advanced look and user-friendly command.

The center console is accessible from both the driver side and rear seats. The console is big enough to hold 23 CD cases, yet low enough so that lines of sight and conversation between passengers can be relaxed and natural. The console design helps make the cabin a human-friendly space, and a low-fatigue environment for long rides.

A wide variety of engineered storage spaces are located throughout the cabin. These include dual glove boxes, a center console utility tray and five cup holders in large and medium sizes. Bottle holders are built into the front and rear door pockets, while most models will feature an overhead storage space suitable for sunglasses. In addition to the larger main luggage compartment, there are storage units built into the sides and under the cargo platform for storing equipment such as car wash items or gloves. Even a special space for umbrellas is located under the second row of seats.

Rear seats fold, slide and recline to configure for any mix of passengers and cargo, and operation switches are located conveniently close to the occupants. New for Toyota, an available seat material called SofTex is designed for easy cleaning, resisting spills and wear in a family vehicle that could see heavy use on a daily basis. Soft to the touch, SofTex’s attributes as compared to leather and other traditional leatherette-type materials include a weight reduction of 50 percent, a manufacturing process with approximately 99 percent fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than conventional synthetic leather, and it’s water and stain resistant. It also does not include any animal-based material.

 Seamlessly integrated into the Prius v are state-of-the-art electronics and enhanced connectivity features. A Bluetooth wireless connection for compatible hands-free phone calls is standard, now improved by an automatic phone book transfer function. Also standard is a USB port that allows playing of music and video from portable audio devices, using the vehicle sound system and in-dash display screen, including full iPod integration.

The standard audio system has a 6.1-inch screen and six speakers. The screen also displays the energy monitor and fuel consumption data, and functions as the monitor for the integrated back-up camera and the Display Audio System. The screen also offers a new value-driven navigation system and serves as a portal for Entune. An available HD Radio system enables CD sound quality from digital FM broadcasts, and has features that maximize analog and AM broadcast sound quality. The system will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase and SiriusXM Satellite Radio™.

The top-of-the-line audio is equipped with a new seven-inch Premium HDD Navigation system with Entune and JBL. This system offers a new split-screen feature that allows for simultaneously displaying navigation and audio information and full iPod video integration.

 

The premium system adds a new JBL GreenEdge™ audio system that combines an eight-channel amplifier and door-mounted “acoustic lens” speakers, to provide a high-quality sound. The GreenEdge amplifier achieves a 66-percent reduction in overall mass and a 50-percent enhancement in sound efficiency. The GreenEdge speakers produce a higher output of sound with the same power or less consumption of conventional models.

Prius v will be one of the first Toyotas to offer the Entune™ multimedia system. For the first time ever in a Toyota automobile, this innovative new system leverages the mobile smartphone to provide a richer in-vehicle experience with fully integrated access to navigation, entertainment and information services.

Toyota Entune debuts the first-ever support for engaging mobile apps, such as Bing, OpenTable, and movietickets.com, along with accessing useful travel-related services, such as live weather, traffic, fuel information (location and price), stocks, and sports. Toyota Entune brings the largest selection of music options available to a vehicle, including iheartradio’s 750+ stations, and Pandora’s personalized music service.

The audio systems combined with Entune feature a best-in-class, advanced conversational voice recognition system that helps the driver to stay focused on the road by eliminating the need to memorize thousands of voice commands. The system will also allow for audio read-back and replay capabilities for text messages, with the ability to respond by pre-set “Quick Reply Messages” such as: “I’m driving and will reply later.”

Sleek, Aerodynamic and Efficient

With a balance between outstanding spaciousness, refined style, and smooth aerodynamics, Prius v has a low 0.29 coefficient of drag, which does not inhibit the vehicle’s convenient packaging. It is a new vehicle designed from the ground up, with a shape that evolved from Prius rather than being an elongated version.

Keeping air resistance low is the familiar triangular Prius silhouette, adapted to a larger size. A flush surface from the front of the vehicle through the front pillar works with side “aerocorners” for exceptionally clean airflow. The smooth front sheetmetal blends into a carefully designed roof and cabin, leading to an optimized cabin-end shape that acts to converge side and roof airflow. Wheels and wheel caps are designed with aerodynamic effects in mind. These measures and others also have the beneficial effect of suppressing wind noise.

Enhancing the clean, low wind-resistance design are materials that keep the Prius v relatively light and easy to move. The door panels are foam-injected with polypropylene and the deck board with light-weight urethane to produce a weight savings of approximately 20 percent. Significant weight reduction is also achieved through the use of high-tensile grades of steel throughout the

Also available, and a Toyota-first, is a resin Panoramic View Moonroof with power retractable sun shades that provides an open atmosphere in the cabin with a 40-percent reduction in weight as compared to conventional glass roofs of the same size, and excellent heat insulation performance. This improved thermal resistance means the engine needs to run less to preserve comfortable ambient temperatures, which in turn enhances fuel efficiency. The moonroof has an electrically operated shade system with a jam protection function.

Available LED headlamps work to improve visibility while reducing current draw. They use projector lenses to offer long-range visibility and are designed to be virtually maintenance free for the expected life of the vehicle.

Prius v features a climate control system with enhanced cooling capability to cope with a larger cabin. The system uses an electric compressor, so the air conditioning can run without depending on the engine, and improved component design for better maximum-demand cooling performance.

Proven Hybrid Synergy Drive System Now More Versatile
The Hybrid Synergy Drive system in the Prius v is essentially the same as the current third-generation Prius. The system uses two high-output motors, one 60kw (80 hp) unit that mainly works to power the compact, lightweight transaxle and another smaller motor that mainly works as the electric power source. Maximum motor drive voltage is 650 volts DC. The proven and practical nickel-metal hydride battery pack is the same as on the third-generation Prius liftback, but with a cooling duct located under the rear seat.

As with current-generation Prius cars, Hybrid Synergy Drive is a series-parallel hybrid system that can provide power either from the engine alone, or the motor alone, or any mix of both. A hybrid control computer manages the system so that optimum power is delivered according to driver demand. It uses a start/stop system and regenerative braking to conserve fuel and recharge the battery upon deceleration.

Hybrid Synergy Drive is built around a specially adapted, efficient 98-horsepower1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that runs on the Atkinson cycle and contributes to a total system horsepower of 134. Key components include an electric water pump that requires no belts, and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system that helps warm the engine quickly, reducing fuel consumption when the engine is cold. Compact and light weight, the engine produces minimal noise and vibration. Sophisticated valve control, injector design, and other technologies reduce emissions to allow the Prius v to qualify for SULEV and Tier2 Bin3 emissions standards.

In addition to the standard driving mode, Prius v drive system also includes an Eco driving mode, an EV driving mode, and a Power mode. In Power mode, enhanced mid-range response enables easier coping with slopes and mountainous terrain. In EV mode, the Prius v can run on battery power alone for short distances and lower speeds, up to about a mile. In Eco driving mode, the engine management system prioritizes fuel economy, managing throttle response and limiting power consumption from the air conditioning.

Pitch and Bounce Control; Better Ride, Better Handling
A new feature, Pitch and Bounce Control, works with suspension enhancements to improve ride comfort and control. Because the Prius v is a larger vehicle more likely to carry loads and passengers, front and rear suspension components have been redesigned to improve handling and ride quality. Front coil-over spring and damper capacities have been significantly increased and a new upper support has been designed. The steering gear has been attached to the front suspension member, and the stabilizer bar repositioned for more responsive steering feel and enhanced ride comfort.

In the rear, a torsion-beam suspension design has been fitted with appropriately tuned springs and dampers. The new rear-suspension system is designed to help ensure stability and ride comfort, and it has a lower mounting point to improve luggage space.

Pitch and Bounce Control uses the torque of the hybrid motor to enhance ride comfort and control. The system, working with wheel-speed sensors and in tune with the suspension, helps suppress bounce and toss motions to improve comfort for occupants. Because it helps control the balance and posture of the vehicle as a whole, it also functions to improve handling response.

Standard wheels are 16 inches in diameter, with 17-inch wheels available as an option.

Cutting Edge Safety and Security
A variety of available and standard features maintain the Prius tradition of premium-level equipment packaging. Not least among them is a broad suite of advanced features, both active and passive, that are designed to help maximize occupant safety.

The all-new Prius v platform is designed with a force-absorbing body structure. Increased use of high-strength steel, notably in the front frame members, is a key part of providing a strong body structure without increasing weight. Helping to protect the cabin from side and rear intrusions are similarly engineered reinforcements using high tensile steels, all designed to disperse energy strategically throughout the vehicle to help protect passengers.

Like all Toyota models, the Prius v will feature Toyota’s Star Safety System™ standard, which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. It also features the standard Smart Stop Technology brake-override system.

An electronic tire pressure monitoring system is standard equipment, and there are seven airbags strategically located about the cabin, including a knee airbag for the driver. New driver and front-passenger seat design helps lessen the possibility of whiplash injury during certain types of collisions while minimizing weight. A new Vehicle Proximity Notification System helps alert pedestrians and cyclists of an oncoming vehicle under certain conditions by emitting a small warning sound.

An available Pre-Collision System (PCS) retracts seatbelts and applies the brakes in certain conditions when a frontal crash is unavoidable. It is paired with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control.

Another available safety system, Safety Connect, can access a call center with a live operator who can dispatch police and emergency vehicles. The system combines automatic collision notification and a stolen vehicle locator feature, which can track the location of the stolen vehicle via GPS and help guide police to recover it.

Peace of Mind Warranty Protection
Toyota’s 36-month/36,000 mile basic new-vehicle warranty applies to all components other than normal wear and maintenance items. Additional 60-month warranties cover the powertrain for 60,000 miles and against corrosion with no mileage limitation. The hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter, are covered for eight years/100,000 miles.

The Prius v will also come standard with Toyota Care, a complimentary plan covering normal factory-scheduled maintenance and 24-hour roadside assistance for two years or 25,000 miles, whichever comes first.

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2011 Audi Q5 Quattro 4dr 3.2L Premium Plus SUV

The 2011 Audi A5 2.0T is available with a new automatic transmission. Otherwise, this lineup of premium sporty cars is largely unchanged. In pricing and size, A5 slots between the compact Audi A4 and midsize Audi A6. Coupe and convertible body styles are offered in base 2.0T and high-performance S5 trim levels. The mid-line 3.2 coupe has been discontinued. The 2.0T has a turbocharged 211-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. The 2.0T Cabriolet is available with front-wheel drive or Audi's quattro all-wheel drive. The 2.0T coupe is AWD only. S5 models are also AWD only. The Cabriolet has a supercharged 333-horsepower 3.0-liter V6, while the S5 coupe retains its 354-horsepower 4.2-liter V8. Transmission availability is as follows: The front-drive 2.0T Cabriolet has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that behaves much like an automatic; the AWD 2.0T has a new 8-speed automatic; A5 and S5 coupes offer a 6-speed automatic; a 7-speed automated manual that behaves much like an automatic is standard on the S5 Cabriolet. A 6-speed manual is available on 2.0T and S5 coupes. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain-side airbags, and front-side airbags. Options include blind-spot alert, a navigation system, and up-level audio system. Audi Drive Select, which includes upgraded power steering and an adaptive suspension, is also optional. 

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