new classic cars: March 2011

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Lincoln MKR images

Lincoln MKR

Lincoln is pulling the wraps off a head-turning new concept car at the North American International Auto Show next week, signaling its design strategy for the next-generation of premium American vehicles and launching a new engine family.

The Lincoln MKR concept introduces a new design language of "elegant simplicity" on a four-door coupe that also features environmentally friendly amenities and fuel-saving technology, including its TwinForce™ engine.

The concept's 3.5-liter gasoline twin-turbocharged direct-injection V-6 performs comparably or better than V-8 engines, delivering 415 horsepower and 400 lb.-ft. of torque on renewable E-85 ethanol.

A New Era of Lincoln Design

The new design - created by a team led by Peter Horbury, executive director, Design, The Americas - showcases the visual elements that will influence a new generation of Lincoln products.

"We've reinterpreted the best of Lincoln designs over time, preserving the restraint and elegance synonymous with the brand," says Horbury. "The Lincoln MKR concept is sophisticated and modern, resembling an athlete - extremely strong and fit but looks elegant in a tuxedo.

"This romantic, sporting coupe should turn heads at the show. And, ultimately, this new design language will help lead us forward in the growing premium segment."

Lincoln MKR

Lincoln MKR car wallpapers

Lincoln MKR

Saturday, March 26, 2011

2011 Lexus CT200h images

2011 Lexus CT200h

The Lexus CT 200h will have its North American debut at next week’s NY Auto Show, and to promote the fact, Lexus issued a press release that highlights some interesting information:

* The CT 200h will go on sale in the U.S. in early 2011.
* As part of an integrated launch in the U.S., Lexus will release a breakthrough interactive short film that offers a new take on the test drive by providing the viewer a fully immersive way to experience the new Lexus CT 200h.
* The CT 200h will incorporate a standard eight airbag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) with dual-stage airbags and knee airbags for driver and front passenger, side curtain airbags, and front seat-mounted side airbags to help protect passengers in certain types of severe frontal or side collisions.
* The hood and rear hatch door are made of aluminum to minimize weight.
* The cabin is trimmed with metal and a new synthetic material called NuLuxeTM that is soft to the touch like leather. Leather-trimmed seating will be available as an option.
* The grille and headlamps with standard LED daytime running lamps illustrate airflow with their three-dimensional arrowhead-shaped design cues…

The press release also gives a more complete picture of the four different driving modes will be available in the CT 200h:

* Normal mode has an essentially linear throttle response that gives naturally progressive power while the Power Control Unit (PCU) limits drive voltage to a maximum of 500 volts.
* The Eco mode adjusts air conditioning settings and the throttle for the best possible fuel economy.
* For an enhanced fun-to-drive experience, Sport mode, a first for the Lexus hybrid line-up, can be selected. Sport mode provides more direct Electric Power Steering (EPS) settings and throttle while the PCU boosts drive voltage to a maximum output of 650 volts. Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TRAC) are less intrusive when Sport mode is selected, allowing for more lively driving.
* In EV mode, under certain circumstances, the vehicle can be driven up to one mile using only the electric motors.