Monthly Archives: August 2006

Rear Collision Warning System

By Alborz Fallah | August 25th, 2006

So Mercedes Benz have the S Class which boasts a heap of Safety features, including the all too popular, front collision warning system that can sense when a collision is imminent and brakes the car before the driver has a chance to react. It also tightens seat belts and does a few other things to prepare for the accident.

Toyota, which is trailing General Motors as the Second largest automaker in the world, didn’t want to be left behind, so they have come up with a new system which Toyota says is the world’s first system for detecting rear-end collisions before they happen.

How does it work? A radar device is installed in the rear bumper to detect a vehicle approaching from behind. Sensors in the front headrests detect the position of the driver’s and front passenger’s heads, and shift the headrests’ position to reduce the risk of whiplash injury. Hazard lights also start flashing to warn the driver of a possible crash from behind.

Toyota President Katsuaki Watanabe said a sophisticated computer like “a human brain” will be installed in the Lexus LS luxury model going on sale in Japan in September to pack the latest safety features such as the rear-end pre-crash system.

“We are determined in our pursuit to develop vehicles that will have zero traffic accidents,” he told reporters at a Toyota facility west of Tokyo.

Apart from that, there are also other safety features developed by Toyota. The one that cought my eye is the new pedestrians detection system. The system uses a camera referred to as a stereo camera that can detect information on three-dimensional objects, in addition to the more common radar. An infrared projector in the headlights supports night-time visibility.

So what does it actually do? Well similar to the Mercedes Benz system, when the Toyota system system detects a pedestrian or other objects, the seat belts retract. If the driver fails to brake, pre-crash brakes kick in to reduce speed to try not to run over that person.

Although Pedestrian safety isn’t generally a big issue in Australia, in Japan Safety for pedestrians is an especially pressing need given the roads tend to be narrow and more congested, and pedestrian fatalities are more common than in the U.S. and Europe.

Although Toyota are keen to emphasis how much they care about people and safety, the research and developement of these systems is ultimately an effort by the world’s leading automakers, including Toyota, to woo customers at a time when nearly all cars are becoming sophisticated.

Mercedes Benz CLK 500 CLK 63 AMG

By Alborz Fallah | August 25th, 2006

When I initially mentioned the Mercedes Benz CLK range I decided to call the new 5.5 Litre V8 powered CLK the CLK 550. I took a while guess and figured given that the engine is a 5.5 Litre, Mercedes will simply just change the name to CLK 550. So today I was proven wrong. Mercedes-Benz Australia released details of the new CLK class and they have instead decided to keep the 500 name with the new 5.5 Litre engine.

Mercedes Benz CLK500 2007 The Mercedes Benz CLK class has been the leader of its segment, accounting for over a third of all sales in the sports car greater than $80,000 category. The CLK-Class was released in Australia in 1997 and since then close to 10,000 vehicles have been delivered to customers, with the current model, released in 2002, making up 6,000 of those sales.

So the new CLK range coming out The successful CLK-Class model range to be released soon will include :

MercedesBenzCLK5002007-2 CLK-Class Coupe
CLK 200 KOMPRESSOR $85,100
CLK 280 $95,100
CLK 350 $120,100
CLK 500 $149,100
CLK 63 AMG $199,100

CLK-Class Cabriolet
CLK 200 KOMPRESSOR $99,400
CLK 280 $109,100
CLK 350 $134,100
CLK 500 $163,100
CLK 63 AMG $213,100

The newly developed 5.5-litre V8 engine powering the CLK 500 boasts a peak torque of 530 Nm (outgoing model: 460 Nm), giving the CLK the ability to get from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds (outgoing model: 5.9 seconds), while the top speed is 220 km/h (electronically limited). Despite the 26 per cent boost in power, combined city/highway fuel consumption remains at a somewhat unbelievable 11.4 – 11.5 litres per 100 km. For those of you who are advocates of American muscle cars, you have to give the Germans some credit here for making a 5.5Litre V8 engine that uses less fuel than your average Holden Commodore.

Mercedes Benz Australia said that the new CLK 500 will come standard with

digital/analogue TV tuner,
electrically folding exterior mirrors
Harmon Kardon LOGIC7 surround sound system

The new CLK 500 is $2,400 more than the price of the predecessor model.

The new CLK 63 AMG
The new CLK 63 AMG is another car, imagine a 6.3 Litre German made, AMG tuned engine. It almost doesn’t matter what car it goes into, because you know it will be fast! The AMG tuned engine produces 354 kW of power and a peak torque 630 Nm, representing an impressive increase of 84 kW of power and 120 Nm of torque over the superseded CLK 55 AMG. The CLK 63 AMG which comes with 7G-TRONIC seven speed transmission, is available in Coupe and Cabriolet variants. In addition to the standard features on the CLK 500, the CLK 63 AMG comes with a host of extras including AMG SPEEDSHIFT and steering wheel mounted gear shift paddles as standard.

“The arrival of the new CLK 500 and CLK 63 AMG will increase the impressive sales the CLK range has enjoyed since arriving in Australia, and expand on its leading position in the sports car greater than $80,000 segment,” said Horst von Sanden, managing director for Mercedes Car Group in Australia.

I simply can’t wait for the new CLK series. However just like Porsche, Mercedes are not too fond of changing the looks of their cars often, and hence the new CLK, although slightly changed, doesn’t look overtly different from the old model.

Subaru Impreza WRX Club Spec 9 Specifications

By Alborz Fallah | August 25th, 2006

3 weeks ago I mentioned Subaru’s intentions to launch the Subaru Impreza Club Spec 9, and as of this week the all new unique WRX has gone up for sale and I have more details! There are a few things to note about the new Club Spec 9, to begin with, it seems like Subaru have given up calling it the Club Spec Evo 9, instead they simply called it the club spec 9. Perhaps that sort of “wanna be” Lancer Evolution image wasn’t working well for them?

Furthermore Subaru has dropped the Matt/Canary Yellow colour that set the Club Spec Evos apart in the past. Instead the 300 Club Spec 9s being sold in Australia will only be available in WRC Blue or Obsiden Black. Priced at $44,490 recommended retail price, the car comes with:

18″ Alloy Wheels (4) – Spare space saver
Leather seats
Sunroof
Lowered Suspension (15mm lower than the standard WRX)
Front Lip spoiler
Short shift gear lever
STI aluminium shift knob
CS9 badging

Even though some of the traditional Club Spec features are no longer apparent, the best ones are, the leather trim and an electric sunroof fitted as standard are a good start! Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia said:

“This Club Spec is our best yet. It delivers enormous customer value and it will be a very quick seller.”

Subaru Tribeca AWD

By Alborz Fallah | August 24th, 2006

Subaru recently confirmed the launch of the fifth main model in the Subaru stable, the All-Wheel Drive Subaru Tribeca. The largest vehicle in the Subaru line-up will go on sale later in the year (November). For those keen enough to want a look, Subaru will have the Tribeca on display at Sydney Motor Show starting 26 October.

Subaru said that the Tribeca will be launched in five and seven-seat standard and luxury models and will come with core trademark subaru technologies that we are now so familiar with:

Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive
Ring-shaped reinforcements around the passenger cabin for added strength
Dual front and side SRS airbags
A 3.0 litre six-cylinder horizontally opposed boxer engine

Subaru says that the Tribeca is a luxury SUV aimed at families and drivers seeking space and outstanding cabin versatility for everyday urban use or recreational reasons. In otherwords, its bigger than the Forester. Nick Senior, Managing Director, Subaru Australia, said:

“We’ve had fantastic feedback from the motor shows where we’ve displayed left-hand-drive versions of Tribeca over the past 15 months. We just wish we could have had access sooner, but we’re now delighted to confirm it will be in showrooms the first weekend in November.

Tribeca will be comprehensively equipped, with even the entry level model having satellite navigation and reversing camera as standard.

There’s no doubt that Tribeca will go a long way to servicing the needs of loyal Subaru buyers who need a larger vehicle than Liberty or Outback, but presently have no option but to leave the brand in search of a larger car. It will also bring a whole new set of customers to the brand.”

Mr Senior said Tribeca would be available in limited numbers due to simultaneous release in Europe placing demands in manufacturing.

“We’re encouraging prospective buyers to register their interest with dealers from now on, as production capacity is limited due to the demands of American, European and Australian manufacture for the 2007 model,” he added.

No prices for the new Subbie have yet been announced as Subaru works hard to find the perfect price for launch>

BMW 335i Sedan

By Alborz Fallah | August 24th, 2006

If you remember a few weeks back I mentioned BMW Australia’s plans to introduce the all new Twin Turbo BMW 335i Coupe. Well BMW Australia also announced recently that the sedan version of the 335i, the BMW 335i Sedan, is going to be making its way down under come December.

Both the coupe and the sedan are powered by BMW’s very latest engine technology that BMW promises is not only powerful but due to the twin turbo setup there will be no turbo lag and use far less fuel than a conventional turbo engine.

With 35 kW and 100 Nm more performance than the BMW 330i Sedan, the 225 kW straight six 3.0-litre engine in the 335i, delivers a massive 400 Nm of torque across a vast plateau stretching from 1,300 rpm to 5,000rpm. The car gets up to a electronically limited 250km/hr.

The new BMW 335i Sedan is priced at $104,000 AUD. The BMW 335i Sedan is 0.8 seconds quicker from 0-100 km/h than the 330i Sedan, getting there in just 5.8 seconds. When you think about it, that isn’t really that fast given that a stock 2006 Subaru Impreza WRX will do the dash in the same time.. and it only costs $41,000!

The more interesting aspect of the 335i is the fuel consumption figures which sit for the combined cycle, around 9.6 L/00 km. So since I have taken the challenge to compare this car to the likes of the WRX and even the Mazda 6 MPS, what does the BMW give us handling wise? Well thanks to its lightweight engine, the BMW 335i Sedan is blessed with claimed deft handling and perfect 50/50 weight distribution for better cornering ability.

So okay, you must be thinking why I am not taking a liking to the twin turbo charged 335i? Well, one of the reasons is because the car comes in automatic transmission guise only! Yes, an automatic. Whats wrong with the world! At least the six-speed gearbox is not too bad and it’s controlled both by the traditional Steptronic shifter and a set of smart chromed steering wheel mounted paddles.

Other cool features of the beamer include

innovative and safety-focused High Beam Assist, which automatically activates and de-actives high beam where required, is fitted as standard to the BMW 335i Sedan,
Professional Navigation,
TV tuner and Voice Recognition controls,
Bluetooth mobile phone preparation.

The 335i is also optionally available with a BMW M Sport Package, bringing more sporting suspension settings, M Aerodynamic body kit and M interior features such as M sport seats and interior trim, while riding on 17-inch light alloy wheels. M Sport tailpipes also gain a chrome finisher.

For the first time in Australia, BMW 3 Series Sedan buyers can also now opt for a powerful and refined four-cylinder turbo-diesel variant.BMW will offer three six-cylinder petrol engine models of the all new 3 Series Coupe by year’s end, headed by the 335i Coupé.

“The arrival of the 335i Sedan in Australia confirms the BMW 3 Series as the most dynamic car in the class it created more than 30 years ago,” says Tom Noble, General Manager, Marketing at BMW Group Australia.

“With its cutting edge engineering innovation, high power output combined with frugal fuel consumption, the 335i is the only choice for the most sophisticated sporting drivers of luxury compact cars.

“We expect the 335i Sedan will make its mark in Australia out of the box, as one of the fastest, most refined and dynamically enhanced cars available.”

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8

By Alborz Fallah | August 24th, 2006

Jeep has announced the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 which Jeep claims (and I agree) is one of the world’s fastest four-wheel drives. Quick and dirty facts:

Power – 30 per cent more than standard Jeep Grand Cherokee
Performance – 313 kW, 6.1-litre HEMI V8
0-100 km/h – low five-second range
Price – $85,990 AUD
Limited availability – less than 60 vehicles in 2006
Available late August 2006 – so order it now!

So what can I say, we need less 4WDs on the road, but instead Jeep has come out with a 4WD… that I like! Hemi V8 in this car is sure to make an impression (and sound awesome) and with a 0-100 in the mid to low 5s, it will scare the living hell out of WRX/SS/XR owners.

Jeep® has unleashed a high performance Street and Racing Technology (SRT) version of its flagship Grand Cherokee, boasting 313 kW, 569 Nm and a 0-100 km/h time in the low-five-second range. Priced at $85,990, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the second SRT vehicle to be powered by a 6.1-litre HEMI® V8, joining the 300C SRT8, and offers 30 per cent more power than the 5.7-litre HEMI. Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8

With 20-inch alloy wheels, performance tuned suspension and Brembo brakes the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is engineered for incredible acceleration and stopping power.The Chrysler Group’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) high performance division fitted an enlarged version of the company’s renowned HEMI engine into the Grand Cherokee to create the quickest, most powerful Jeep ever made. The Grand Cherokee SRT8 uses a unique four-wheel drive system to help it accelerate to 100 km/h in the low five second range, achieving a top speed of 245 km/h.

Additional SRT treatment further boosts the performance and driving experience of the Grand Cherokee SRT8. Functional exterior enhancements include a lower more aggressive stance, a new front facia embodying aerodynamic improvements, air intake ducts which help cool the front brakes, and dual exhaust tail pipes. Unique interior features include deeply sculpted performance front seats with performance suede inserts to hold the occupants securely during spirited driving, and a 276 Watt sound system with Boston Acoustics speakers.

“When Jeep set out to create its quickest-ever model, it was with the race track rather than the mud track in mind,” said Gerry Jenkins, managing director of Chrysler Group Australia.

“The SRT8 is not intended to be off-road capable. Instead, with this injection of SRT DNA, the new Grand Cherokee SRT8 establishes a fresh benchmark for high-performance SUVs. It has the raw power to out-perform the likes of a Porsche Cayenne Turbo at a fraction of the price. At just $85,990 it leaves in its dust, competitors that cost twice as much. With the SRT8’s addition to the Grand Cherokee line-up we now offer a broad range of engines to suit our customers desires including the highly efficient 3.0-litre turbo diesel powertrain,” said Jenkins.

Although the heart of the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the enlarged 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engine, the aim of the enhanced four-wheel drive system is to maximise the traction available to the driver, while being robust and reliable enough to handle the upgraded HEMI engine’s massive amounts of power and torque.

Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8 The resulting all-new unique transfer case is set up to deliver from five to 10 per cent of torque to the front wheels, under normal driving conditions, with the remaining 90-to-95 per cent being sent to the rear axle. When driving on slippery surfaces, the four-wheel-drive system can automatically transfer up to 100 per cent of torque to the front wheels when additional traction and stability is required.

As well as the high-performance engine and four-wheel drive system, as with all SRT vehicles, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 features evocative race-inspired interior and performance-oriented exterior and suspension features.
The Grand Cherokee SRT8 is priced at $85,990 and is available from August 2006.

Jenkins added: “If driving enthusiasts want to get their hands on the fastest Jeep ever they will have to be as quick as the car itself! Less than 60 examples will be brought into Australia this year.”

The Grand Cherokee SRT8 becomes the third SRT badged Chrysler Group vehicle sold in Australia, joining the Chrysler Crossfire SRT6, on sale in Australia since mid 2005, and the Chrysler 300C SRT8 which arrived for sale in April this year.
All SRT vehicles feature powerful engines, unique exterior details, sports suspension and a sports interior.
The addition of the Grand Cherokee SRT8 will grow the Jeep stable to five models in Australia, joining the iconic Wrangler, the mid-sized Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and seven-seat Jeep Commander.

Grand Cherokee SRT8 standard features

Safety and security

• Advanced multi-stage air bag system
• Side curtain airbags
• Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) 4 wheel disc
• Electronic Stability Program (ESP)
• Brake Assist
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Rear park assist
• Central locking with remote operation
• Headlamp on timer delay, levelling system
• Height adjustable front seat belts
• Thatcham 1 alarm and immobiliser
• Rain sensitive automatic windscreen wipers
Performance
• 6.1 HEMI® V8 engine – 313 kW, 569 Nm of torque
• Performance-tuned five-speed automatic transmission with electronic range select
• Electronic active full-time 4WD system (all-new system is unique to Grand Cherokee SRT8)
• Enhanced chassis and suspension system – specially tuned components and Bilstein monotube Dampers provide excellent ride and handling in a variety of driving conditions
Utility
• Flexible cargo capacity – smart space with large interior volume, 60/40 splitfolding rear seat and large cargo area
• Memory-controlled features – heated eight-way power driver’s seat, radio presets and exterior mirrors, Reconfigurable in-cluster Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) driver-interactive information display
Style
• Exterior performance styling – unique air dam and sill extensions, chrome exterior accents, dual four-inch exhaust tips
• Choice of Brilliant Black, Bright Silver or Steel Blue exterior colour
• Interior performance styling – unique steering wheel, 300-km/h speedometer, and “refined aluminium” accents. Premium low-back front bucket seats with Royale leather trim, embossed suede inserts and embroidered SRT logo
• Large wheels and tyres – 20-inch wheels with high-performance tyres
Value
• Exclusive SRT modifications
• Significant modifications by Chrysler’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) group turn an already impressive production vehicle into a highly desirable performance model
• High level of standard features
• Dual zone automatic temperature control, tilt/steering column, memory system, leather trimmed seating, ESP, rear park assist system and rain-sensing wipers
• Boston Acoustics sound systems – standard system includes six-disc CD with six Boston Acoustics speakers

Jeep Grand Cherokee prices

Grand Cherokee Laredo

4.7L V8 Auto $53,990
3.0L V6 CRD Auto $58,990

Grand Cherokee Limited

4.7L V8 Auto $65,990
3.0L V6 CRD Auto $68,990
5.7L Hemi® V8 Auto $70,990

Grand Cherokee SRT8

6.1L V8 Auto $85,990

Options

The Grand Cherokee SRT8 comes with an impressive long list of standard equipment, with the only option for the vehicle being a power sunroof with a recommend retail price of $3,191.

New four-wheel-drive system

Developing the first SRT vehicle with four-wheel-drive, SRT engineers created a drive train that was lightweight yet robust and reliable enough to handle the upgraded HEMI engine’s massive amounts of power and torque. A new transfer casing was designed using housing components from two other units, reinforced for their new role. Engineers opted to use the front half of an existing Jeep transfer case, mated to the rear half of a heavy-duty case, chosen for its ruggedness and ability to accommodate the electronic full-time four-wheel-drive system’s components.

Under normal driving conditions, this all-new transfer case delivers from five to 10 per cent of torque to the front wheels, with 90-to-95 per cent being sent via a heavy-duty propshaft (from the diesel-powered Grand Cherokee) to a Dana 44 rear differential upgraded with a larger crown wheel fitted within a new axle casing. The system was designed to provide a well-balanced vehicle with a high fun-to-drive factor, befitting its SRT badging.

Under severe road conditions, when travelling on slippery surfaces, the four-wheel-drive system can transfer up to 100 per cent of torque to the front wheels, automatically as needed, when additional traction and stability is required.

Awesome HEMI V8 power

At the heart of the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is an enlarged SRT 6.1-litre HEMI V8 engine, which generates 313 kW– 73 kW more than the 5.7-litre version – a massive 30 per cent power boost, with 569 Nm of torque compared to the smaller V8’s 500 Nm.

This normally aspirated 90-degree V8 is the highest specific-output engine ever offered by the Chrysler Group – its 51.3 kW-per-litre rating exceeds even that of the legendary 1966 ‘Street HEMI’.Although the Chrysler HEMI was born in the 1950s and entered into legend in the 1960s and ’70s, today’s version took much of its inspiration from the original, particularly the namesake hemispherical combustion chambers that provide power and efficiency.

When SRT set out to develop a more powerful HEMI for the Jeep Grand Cherokee and the Chrysler 300C, they were mindful of the engine’s heritage, adopting traditional HEMI engine cues such as the orange-painted cylinder block and black valve covers.

The SRT powertrain engineers who developed the Grand Cherokee SRT8’s engine achieved more power by increasing the capacity, raising the compression ratio, redesigning the cylinder head air intake and exhaust systems for increased flow, and enhancing the internal components to allow higher engine speeds (rpm). Strengthened components include a reinforced engine block, forged steel crankshaft and high-strength connecting rods.

The cylinder bore of the 90-degree V8 was increased by 3.5 mm, boosting displacement from 5.7-litres (5654 cc) to 6.1-litres (6063 cc). The compression ratio was raised from 9.5:1 to 10.3:1, unleashing more energy in the combustion process. Maximum power of 313 kW is generated at 6,000 rpm, while maximum torque of 569 Nm is produced at 4,800 rpm.

Engine breathing was increased with new high-flow cylinder heads featuring 16 larger diameter valves (2 per cylinder) and reshaped cylinder ports to maximise airflow. A special intake manifold was designed with larger diameter runners for higher-speed tuning and the exhaust ‘header’ pipes have individual tubes encased in a stainless steel shell, routed through a larger-diameter (70 mm vs. 63.5 mm) exhaust system with 101 mm chrome tail pipes – all unique to the Grand Cherokee SRT8’s 6.1-litre HEMI engine.

Performance-oriented camshaft profiles were developed to balance total vehicle requirements, simultaneously allowing more air in and out of the cylinders and enabling the engine to attain higher revs. SRT engineers increased the HEMI’s peak engine speed nearly 20 per cent, to 6,000 rpm (up from 5,000 rpm).

The high-performance 6.1-litre HEMI is further strengthened with a host of redesigned components, including a reinforced engine block with increased coolant flow, forged steel crankshaft, high-strength powdered-metal connecting rods, floating-pin pistons (cooled by oil squirters), an oil sump modified for reduced oil foaming and hollow, sodium-filled intake and exhaust valve stems to help dissipate heat more efficiently.

The 6.1-litre HEMI’s power is channelled through an A580 five-speed automatic transmission with specially calibrated AutoStick® driver-selectable range control, which offers fully automatic operation or sequential manual gear selection. A heavy-duty four-flange prop shaft sends the torque from the transmission to an upgraded differential and rear axle.

Ride and handling

The Grand Cherokee SRT8 chassis has been fine-tuned to deliver outstanding SRT-style ride and handling across the broad dynamic range. While the existing Grand Cherokee’s suspension layout – independent with double wishbones at the front and a live axle located with multiple links at the rear – is retained, numerous enhancements have been made.
The SRT8’s unique chassis set-up includes tuned Bilstein dampers, specially tailored spring rates and suspension bushings and larger-diameter anti-roll bars. The ride height is lowered by 25 mm, reducing aerodynamic drag, lowering the centre of gravity and enhancing stability and creating an aggressive stance. The Electronic Stability Program (ESP) is specially tuned to match the car’s performance characteristics. The power-assisted rack and pinion steering is higher geared for a more agile response, with 2.85 turns lock-to-lock for an 11.3 metre turning circle, compared with 3.14 turns on the regular Grand Cherokee.

Contributing to its aggressive appearance, while providing both a cosmetic hype and genuine performance boost, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is equipped with larger diameter, unique five-spoke 20-inch forged aluminium wheels shod with high-performance 245/45 ZR20 all-season tyres.

Upgraded braking

The braking system of the all-new Grand Cherokee SRT8 was upgraded to provide benchmark braking performance, setting a new standard for SUVs and a potent counterpoint to the vehicle’s amazing acceleration and performance.
To stop the vehicle safely and predictably from high speeds, all four discs are fitted with ultra-high performance Brembo racing-style callipers, equipped with four pistons for even greater clamping performance. Up front, there are 360 x 32mm ventilated discs, with 350 x 28mm ventilated discs at the rear.

Functional SRT exterior enhancements

Appropriate to its role as ‘the quickest-ever Jeep’ the Grand Cherokee SRT8’s exterior styling follows the SRT credo with functional exterior enhancements unique to this model, which boost performance and resonate with brand character. The new model’s lowered, aggressive stance shows its unmistakable Jeep identity endowed with Street and Racing Technology DNA.

An all-new front fascia embodies aerodynamic improvements that reduce lift and drag, while providing sufficient airflow to meet the increased cooling demands of the larger HEMI engine. Unique air intake ducts also help to cool the front brakes. A new rear fascia incorporates an aggressive centre cut-out to accommodate the dual 101 mm diameter exhaust tail pipes.

Unique interior features

The cabin of the new Grand Cherokee SRT8 is distinguished by power-adjustable, deeply sculpted performance front seats complete with uniquely patterned suede inserts designed to hold the occupants securely during spirited driving. The heated front seats are also equipped with memory functions and the steering wheel is height-adjustable. All Grand Cherokee SRT8 vehicles feature an interior trimmed in Medium Slate Grey leather.

Other SRT-only trim includes a special ‘carbon-fibre technical’ leather trim for a more positive grip, which is applied to the steering wheel and gear selector. The centre stack features a unique finish in ‘refined aluminium’ which is also applied to shifter console and door-switch bezels. The steering wheel frames comprehensive instrumentation, including a 300 km/h speedometer, tachometer and engine temperature gauges, all trimmed with a blue accent and located in a carbon-fibre trimmed binnacle.

Premium amenities within the Grand Cherokee SRT8 cabin include a standard AM/FM stereo radio with six-disc CD changer, 276 Watt audio system powering a six-speaker Boston Acoustics speaker system, with steering wheel-mounted controls.
Heating and cooling adjustments are via a dual-zone fully automatic climate control air-conditioning system with infrared temperature sensing.

Choice of three colours

Jeep customers are offered a choice of three exterior colours for their Grand Cherokee SRT8 – Brilliant Black, Bright Silver or Steel Blue – each with the interior finished in Medium Slate Grey leather.

Security and warranty

Like other Jeep models, the new Grand Cherokee SRT8 has remote control central locking and a Thatcham Category 1 security system incorporating the Sentry Key® theft deterrent system, a sophisticated engine immobilising system that prevents the vehicle being started with a forged key or by directly connecting the ignition wires.
All Jeep models are covered by the company’s warranty scheme, which provides a three-year/100,000 km warranty, and three-year roadside assistance.

Engine

6.1 V8 Hemi 8 Cylinders
Compression Ratio 10.3:1
Cylinders 8
Cubic capacity (cc) 6063
Bore x Stroke (mm) 103.0 x 90.9
Valves 16
Power bhp/rpm 313 KW @ 6000
Torque lb ft/rpm 569 Nm @ 4800

Fuel

Type Premium Unleaded Petrol 98 RON
Delivery Sequential electronic multi point injection returnless

Gearbox

Type Automatic
Gears 5
Gear ratios 1st 3.59
2nd 2.19
3rd 1.41
4th 1.00
5th 0.83
Rev. 3.16
Axle 3.55

Suspension

Front Short-/Long Arm (SLA) independent design with gas-charged twin-tube coil-over shock absorbers, upper and lower control arms and stabiliser bar
Rear Live axle, five-link with tubular track bar twin-tube coil-over shock absorbers and stabiliser bar

Steering

Rack and pinion, power assisted
Overall steering ratio (variable) 16.5:1
Overall steering ratio (full lock) 14.6:1
Lock to lock (turns) 2.85
Turning circle (kerb to kerb) (m) 11.3

4×4

System MD146 SRT, Single-speed Electronic On-Demand 4 x 4, electronically controlled clutch pack torque transfer
Ground Clearance rear axle (mm) 178
Approach/Departure/Breakover Angles 15.8° w front air dam installed/19.7°/9.7° min
Max Wading Depth 508mm @ 8kph
Low range ratio N/A

Brakes

Front Power assisted ventilated discs with ABS, EBD
Rear Power assisted solid discs with ABS, EBD
Electronic Stability Program ESP: Four-channel antilock with active wheel speed, vehicle speed, steering wheel angle, yaw rate, and lateral acceleration sensors, vehicle stability management, traction control, deactivation switch and EBD (4WD)

Tyres

Front/Rear 245/45 R20
Wheels
Front/Rear 20 x 8.0

Dimensions

Height min/max (mm) 1710
Length (mm) 4785
Width (mm) 1870
Wheelbase (mm) 2780
Track front/rear (mm) 1605
Overhang front/rear 855/1105
Weights & Capacities
Kerbweight (kg) 2270
Gross Vehicle Weight (kg) 2750
Max. Payload (kg) 480
Max Towing Weight braked (kg) 1587
Max Towing Weight unbraked (kg) 750
Max. Roof Load (kg) 68
Fuel Tank Capacity (Ltr) 77.7
Luggage Capacity (Seats Up) (Ltr) 978
Luggage Capacity (Seats Down) (Ltr) 1909

Performance

Max. Speed (kph) 245
Fuel consumption ADR8101 16.4
EU4 Compliant
C02 (g/kg) 388

HSV Clubsport R8 E Series

By Alborz Fallah | August 22nd, 2006

To all the regular daily readers who come back everyday to get the latest car news and car advice, you should be well aware that I am not much of a Holden fan. No I am not exactly a Ford fan either. So, everyone take a deep breath as this may come as a big surprise to you all. I have, officially, taken a liking to the new VE or E series range from Holden Special Vehicles (HSV). So I want to go over each vehicle on offer in the next few days, and which better car to start with than the HSV Clubsport R8.

Okay so it looks really nice, I don’t know if that is mainly a credit to Holden with the new VE series or HSV with the bodykit and the 19″ rims. The wheels at the front are 19″x8″ running 245/40 R19 98Y tyres while the rear ones are 19″x8.5″ running 275/35 R19 96Y tyres. If you don’t know what that means, lets just say, they are rather big and thick, not to mention expensive.

So given its looks, you’d expect whatever sits beneath that bonnet to have some serious guts. The all new LS2 6.0 litre Generation 4 V8 engine is what powers the clubsport R8, HSV puts the figures at an almighty 307kW @ 6000rpm and 550Nm of torque @ 4400rpm. For the business types and those who are lazy, the Clubsport comes with a choice of a new 6-speed sequential auto transmission, but for the rest of us who dream about this car, the obvious option of a new optimised 6-speed manual transmission is the way togo.

I can bombard you with lots of technical information, but you can find all of that here. Nonetheless other things worth noting about the car are its brakes. HSV claims that in dry conditions, only 36 metres is the distance required to stop from a speed of 100km/h. Front brakes boast 365mm x 32mm ventilated and grooved discs, with sports-styled 4 piston calipers in Holden Racing Team red with silver logo. Wider rear tyres combine with a bigger rear brake – 350mm x 26mm ventilated and grooved discs and 4 piston rear calipers. Not bad!

HSV Clubsport R8 E Series Centre Console However, the best parts of the new HSV E Series Clubsport R8 aren’t all on the outside, the new redesigned centre console looks fantastic with three gauges consisting of an oil temprature, pressure and battery voltage guage. Last few years a great deal of criticism has gone HSVs way for producing tacky and cheap interiors, and whilst I haven’t exactly sat in the new R8, from all the interior photos, I am rather impressed!

But all that aside, there is one thing that cought my eye about the new HSV Clubsport R8, and as a fan of 4 cylinder turbos, it seems that the days of turbo fours, heck even turbo sixes (Ford XR-6 Turbo) beating an HSV from 0 to 100 km/hr are over. The HSV Clubsport R8 E Series gets to 100 in…. wait for it… 0-100 km/hr in 4.96 seconds for the manual and 5.05 for the auto. My god, to give you so perspective on how fast that is, a brand new 2006 model BMW M3 that costs $140,000 will get from 0-100 in 5.2 seconds. So there you have it folks. HSV have made a car faster than an M3! Bring it on!
For more details about the HSV Clubsport R8 click here

Australian Car Industry Disaster Averted

By Alborz Fallah | August 22nd, 2006

There are reports this morning that Ford Australia along with PBR (brake manufacturer) have signed a deal to help out Ajax Fasteners, leading the way to keeping Ajax and its staff employed and also insuring Ford workers are not out of a job.

Seems like Holden was fast asleep while Ford negotiated through out the early hours of this morning, coming to an agreement at around 2:30am. Holden hoped that they can be included in the agreement and was willing to sign up this morning. No reports as of yet.

However, the interesting part of the whole announcement by ford seems to be that no one from Ajax was even at these negotiations? Ajax administrators, Price Waterhouse Coopers and the union representing the 189 Ajax workers who were stood down on friday both claimed they had not seen any deal. Australian Workers Union branch president (vic) Mick Eagles also confirmed that no one had told him anything!
Ford Australia however confirmed this morning that the agreement was in fact signed:

“A number of other (Ajax) customers have not signed but they will sign in the morning, now we have to work through the logistics and take it back to the Ajax employees but it’s a very positive development.” Ford spokeswoman Sinead McAlary said.

Mick Eagles however disagreed

“There is no deal until it is signed by all parties. I hope what Ford is saying eventuates, but it is not true at this point in time.”

Holden aso confirmed that they had infact left the negotiation table last night (late night?) while Ford and other customers had worked through the night and had come to an agreement

“Barring any last-minute hiccups we should be able to sign the agreement this morning,” Holden Spokesman Mr Laird said.

For Australia still has enough stock to keep working till tomorrow night and hopes the deal can be signed and settled well before then. Holden on the other hand had taken a page out of GMs book and already started sourcing parts from overseas under the GM umbrella.

“We want this situation with Ajax resolved and you can’t go on forever pulling parts from other parts of GM,” Mr Laird Said

More news as it becomes available.

Australian Car Industry Crisis

By Alborz Fallah | August 21st, 2006

The likes of Holden, Ford, Toyota and even Mitsubishi may be forced to stand down thousands of workers in the next few days as talks fail over Ajax rescue bid. Ford Australia employs around 4,000 workers in Victoria said today that it might be forced to stand down its workers once componets form Ajax run out.

Holden, based at Elizabeth in South Australia and Port Melbourne in Victoria, admitted that it only has enough supply to last only until the end of the week and afterwards nearly 5,000 staff might be asked to take a holiday while talks continue over Ajax’s future.

Ajax, based in Melbourne’s south-east, is currently under administration and car companies have been in talks since last week to try to keep the component maker in business with a $2 million rescue package. The embattled company is a division of Global Engineered Fasteners (GEF) and makes the specialised nuts and bolts supplied to car makers on the so-called just-in-time system.

The whole idea is that car suppliers don’t keep stock of these parts as they are always readily available. However things are not looking too great with constant supply problems in the last few weeks.

“We are still OK until the close of business on Wednesday,” Ford spokeswoman Sinead McAlary said today. “After Wednesday we will need to look at standing down our workforce at Broadmeadows and Geelong.”

Some 200 Ajax staff have so far been working as of Friday without any pay but as of today the staff gave up as talks failed. The factories furnaces have been set to shut down, with a 1 week turn over to shut down and start up.

“It’s frustrating that we still haven’t reached a resolution,” Holden Spokesman said.

It seems like the only way Ajax will keep on operating is if car companies are willing to pay more for parts. Victorian secretary of the Australian Workers’ Union, Cesar Melhem, said

“It is like someone who needs a lifesaving device. If you need it, you don’t ask how much it is,” Mr Melhem said.

Prime Minister John Howard said that the government is willing to wait it out and see if the car companies will foot the bill before any intervention from the tax payers.

“The first thing to do is to let the industry see what it can do,” Mr Howard said.

All in all the future of car manufacturers in Australia is not looking very bright. Once Ajax supplies stop, many new car models will be hit with delays. Holden’s new VE Commodore which has only just gone on sale will be in short demand as fleet buyers who had toughed it out waiting in the last 2 months might have to wait even longer.

Ferrari 599 GTB FIORANO

By Alborz Fallah | August 21st, 2006

The Ferrari 599 GTB FIORANO

Ferrari has christened its new super car the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano in celebration of the legendary Ferrari test car that has seen the genesis and development of so many world-beating race and roads at its first public showing at the 2006 Geneva International Motor Show.

This new model, the most powerful production car ever produced by Ferrari, combines the most innovative and technologically advanced features ever applied by Ferrari to a front-mid engined two-seater, and sets a new benchmark of excellence in terms of handling, driving pleasure and design. It also seems to set a new benchmark for fuel consumption with figures around 32.7 Litres per 100km!

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano boasts absolutely stunning performance: its 6-litre V12, which was developed from the engine that powered the Enzo supercar, punches out 620 hp at 7,600 rpm and combines with an all-aluminium chassis and bodywork for a weight-power ratio of less than 2.6 kg/hp.

The Pininfarina-designed Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano replaces the last in that great line of berlinettas, the 575M Maranello, of which – together with the 550 Maranello introduced in 1996 – no fewer than 5,700 have been produced, a record for this flagship model for the Prancing Horse.

THE FERRARI 599 GTB FIORANO

Named Fiorano after the circuit Ferrari uses to hone the performance of its track and road cars; GTB as in Gran Turismo Berlinetta after the most famous Ferrari berlinettas ever built; and 599 to reflect the displacement of its V12 engine divided by 10.

The stunning new all-aluminium two-seater that Ferrari is unveiling at the Geneva Motor Show is summed up rather succinctly by its own name and delivers everything that this promises. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano, in fact, sets a new benchmark of excellence in the sports car world.

This new model was designed with several specific objectives in mind: to surpass the intense driving pleasure of such renowned models as the F40, to guarantee stunning performance courtesy of its highly innovative content and technology transfers from the F1 single-seaters, and to deliver superior standards of roominess, comfort, ergonomics and safety. The result is the absolute pinnacle of achievement in terms of thoroughbred Ferrari sportiness and technology.

The new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in an astonishing 3.7 seconds and boasts a top speed in excess of 330 km/h. However, it is still the new model’s uniquely innovative content that guarantees superior driving pleasure, handling and sportiness.

THE V12 ENGINE FROM THE ENZO

The technical specification of the engine speaks for itself: 5999 cm3 displacement, a specific power output of 103 hp/litre (a first for a naturally aspirated production engine of this displacement).

Twin overhead camshafts per cylinder bank boast continuously variable timing on both inlet and exhaust cams to optimise torque delivery and drivability at both low and high revs. A twin-plate, low inertia clutch in unit with the engine also helps lower the centre of gravity. Chain driven distribution reduces noise and is maintenance-free. The Fiorano’s engine delivers a maximum torque of 608 Nm at 5,600 rpm and means that the car pulls well at all engine speeds.

The new model’s breathtaking sportiness is due in part to record maximum revs for an engine of this displacement (apart from the Enzo). Its maximum power output is 620 hp at 7,600 rpm with a maximum engine speed of 8,400 rpm. Particular attention was also paid to fuel consumption which is the same as in the previous model, under similar use, despite a significant leap in performance. Development work for the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also focused specifically on the distinctive sound the engine makes, reducing mechanical resonance in favour of a pure V12 soundtrack from both the intake manifold and the exhaust system. This not only enhances driving pleasure but makes for a quieter ride inside the cabin itself.

F1-SUPERFAST GEARBOX

The new generation F1 gearbox that debuts on the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a further development of the F1 gearbox used on all of the models in the Ferrari range.

The F1-SuperFast system enhances the car’s high-performance capabilities by using the elastic energy within the transmission components, together with the integrated electronic engine and gearbox management programmes, to speed up gear change times. The various stages involved in changing the gears are implemented in parallel (non-sequentially) and this results in exceptionally fast gear shifting. In fact, it cuts overall gear-shift times to just 100 ms. The system is integrated with the manettino and the driver is still free to choose between either the Automatic mode or the Launch Control setting which offers smoother starts from standstill.

F1-TRAC

The experience built up over thousands of kilometres of Formula 1 testing and racing by Ferrari’s drivers is now being made available to ensure clients have access to cutting-edge road-holding, safety and stability. The system continually monitors the speed of both front and rear wheels and features predictive software that estimates the maximum available grip in advance, compares this information with the vehicle dynamics model stored in the control system, and adjusts its reactions to suit, optimising traction by modulating power delivery.

The result is easier, smoother high-performance driving, thanks to maximum grip out of bends (a 20% increase in acceleration compared to a traditional traction and stability control system) and predictable handling even in extreme situations. The F1-Trac is integrated with the manettino which adapts the car’s behaviour to the driving conditions: the Sport setting provides the best balance between stability and performance on the road while Race ensures clients maximum performance combined with consistently brilliant handling. The F1-Trac system is another world first for Ferrari.

SCM (MAGNETORHEOLOGICAL SUSPENSION CONTROL) SUSPENSION

Unlike traditional oleodynamic systems, magnetorheological (MR) fluid suspension systems react instantly to road conditions and driver inputs, thanks to the fact that the dampers use a fluid the viscosity of which is modified by applying an electronically controlled magnetic field.

What this means in practice is greatly improved body control which in turn directly improves handling and road-holding thanks to optimal tyre grip in all road conditions. The result is a much safer and more enjoyable driving experience courtesy of reduced roll and greater control when accelerating, braking and cornering. This is the very first time the SCM (Magnetorheological Suspension Control) suspension has been used on a high performance sports car.

EVOLUTION OF THE MANETTINO

The steering wheel-mounted manettino vehicle dynamics control switch, originally developed for the 1996 Formula 1 season, has been taken a step further for the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano.

The manettino integrates the stability and F1-Trac traction control systems, the F1-SuperFast gearbox and the SCM (Magnetorheological Suspension Control) fluid suspension. This means that the driver can select the correct setting for the grip conditions at any given time. The manettino’s readouts are displayed on the new on-board Multi Display unit so that the information important to each specific setting is instantly available to the driver (e.g. lap times, tyre temperature and pressure or trip computer readouts.)

AERODYNAMIC EFFICIENCY

Lengthy testing in the wind tunnel at Ferrari plus various simulations have yielded exceptional results in terms of both downforce and drag. The optimisation of the Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano’s underbody, the rear diffuser and flying buttresses have resulted in an aerodynamic load of just 160 kg at 300 km/h. Similarly, the Cd – drag coefficient – is just 0.336.
STYLING, ACCESSORIES AND PERSONALISATION OPTIONS
The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano is a strikingly sculptural car. The design is so supple, in fact, that each new angle brings something new to light. Its forms say it all about its extreme sportiness yet still retain a unique sophistication.

A balance has been struck in the interior between the car’s sporty vocation and the feeling of intimacy and safety that only skilled hand-crafting and detailed personalisation can achieve. The passenger areas of the car are trimmed in sumptuous leather while the driver area and controls boast more high-tech detailing in carbon-fibre and aluminium.

In addition to the steering wheel and manettino, the central rev counter with a choice of red or yellow background and solid aluminium passenger controls, the new Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also boasts attractive new styling cues including a central grip to provide extra support for the passenger and new adaptive racing seats featuring carbon-fibre side rests. Other standard accessories include front bi-xenon headlamps and rear LED lights, dusk and rain sensors, dual-zone climate control, electrically adjustable steering-wheel column, hideaway radio/CD player and key with integrated volumetric anti-theft device with motion sensors.

The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano also benefits from an already vast choice of personalisation options available for every Ferrari model. Four areas are covered by this programme: Racing and Track, Exteriors and Colours, Interior and Materials, Equipment and Travel.

The Racing and Track options include CCM (Carbon Ceramic Material) brakes, 20″ Challenge one-piece rims with run-flat tyres, four-point harnesses and a cockpit roll-bar. The Scuderia wheel arch shields and coloured brake calipers complete the look for sportier clients.

Interior and Materials options include a new Enzo Ferrari-inspired carbon-fibre steering wheel with LED rev display which can be specified along with a special carbon-fibre trim kit for the door panels, instrument panel, gear stick surround and sill kick panels. Various types of leather trim are also available for the seats and interior too. Travel and Equipment accessories include front and rear parking sensors, iPod-friendly set-up, satellite anti-theft system and a luggage set specially tailored to fit this model.

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano Technical Specifications

Dimensions and weight

Overall length 183.7 in 4665.98 mm
Overall width 77.2 in 1960.88 mm
Height 52.6 in 1336.04 mm
Wheelbase 108.3 in 2750.82 mm
Front track 66.5 in 1689.1 mm
Rear track 63.7 in 1617.98 mm
Dry weight 3482 lb* 1580.828 kg
Kerb weight 3722 lb* 1689.788 kg
Boot (trunk) capacity 11.3 cu ft 319.982 litres
Fuel tank capacity 23.1 gal 105.013 litres
Weight distribution 47% front 53% rear

Brakes

Front 13.9 x 1.3 in
Rear 12.9 x 1.1 in

Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano Engine

Type 65° V12
Bore/Stroke 3.62 x 2.96 in 91.948 x 75.184 mm
Unit displacement 30.51 cu in 506.522 cc
Total displacement 366.08 cu in 5998.953 cc
Compression ratio 11.2:1
Maximum power 456 kW** (620 CV) at 7600 rpm
Maximum torque 608 Nm (448 lbft) at 5600 rpm
Maximum revs per minute 8400 rpm (with limiter)
Specific output 103 hp/l 76.807 kw/litre

Trasmission

Gearbox (six gears + reverse) Manual or F1

Electronics

Tyre Pressure and Temperature Monitoring System TPTMS CST Stability and Traction Control with F1-Trac

Tyres

Front 245/40 19”
Rear 305/35 20”

Suspension

Magnetorheological damping Control (SCM)

Performance

Maximum speed in excess of 205 mph/330 kmh
0-100 kmh 3.70 s
0-200 kmh 11 s

Fuel Consumption

Urban cycle 32.7 l/100 km; CO2: 750 g/km
Extra urban cycle 14.7 l/100 km; CO2: 337 g/km
Combined 21.3 l/100 km; CO2: 490 g/km
European Community directive on consumer information 1999/94/EC 95990029

CO2 Emission