Volkswagen has officially unveiled the 2010 Amorak pickup

• Amarok sets new standards in 1-tonne pick-up class

• Fuel-efficient TDI engines and three drive concepts

• Active and passive safety at the highest level

• Production and market launch in South America; Europe to follow in 2010

Hannover, December 1, 2009 – With the Amarok, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles is now also entering the segment of mid-range pick-ups, representing an annual market volume of two million vehicles worldwide. The Amarok is not only the fourth model series of the Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles brand, it is also the first 1-tonne class pick-up to be developed in Germany. The new model unifies the robustness demanded of a pick-up with innovative technology, high safety standards and top values in fuel efficiency, comfort and ergonomics. Production is about ready to begin at our “Pacheco” plant in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

The Amarok is launching worldwide in a four-door version with “double cab” – a “single cab” will debut in the first half of 2011. Conceptually and stylistically, the Amarok – up to 5.25 meter long – is a pick-up that looks like it came right out of the pages of a stylish copybook. Its body, set upon a ladder frame, clearly reflects properties of the new Volkswagen design DNA. As usual, the emphasis here is on horizontal lines, a clear interplay of surfaces and precision.

Unifying the horizontal headlights and grille into a single design element is a characteristic of the Volkswagen face for the new era. The louvres and decorative trim of the radiator grille are styled with a distinctive love for details. Extending back from the front face is a surface that develops over the fender contour to the side windows and encloses them in an arch. The defined curvatures of the side panels and engine bonnet lend the sculpted Amarok a truck-like stability supported by amply sized wheel housings.

Finally, the VW logo crowns the smooth surface of the tailgate, framed by rear lights whose distinctive signature is a characteristic night design. Even in the styling of the bumper and its form fit to the truck body, the high standards of its designers show through, and this sets the Amarok apart from the competitive field as a genuine Volkswagen with quality and precision.


Cultivated, powerful and efficient:
Robust TDI engines with innovative technology

For the powertrain, Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles has chosen two reliable, fuel-efficient and clean high-tech turbo-diesels for the pick-up’s market launch. The 120 kW / 163 PS strong 2.0 TDI with common rail injection has two-stage bi-turbo turbocharging, which generates a torque of 400 Newton-meters at a low 1,500 rpm. Another four-cylinder TDI with 90 kW / 122 PS will follow as a second engine variant in mid-2010. It has a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry and develops a maximum torque of 340 Newton-meters from 2,000 rpm. Both engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.

In addition to their agile responsiveness, the two engines dazzle with their extremely low – and for the entire market segment pioneering – fuel consumption values. Take the Amarok with switchable all-wheel drive as an example. Even in this 4x4 version, the 122-PS TDI consumes just 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres (equivalent to 199 g/km CO2). In the case of the 163-PS TDI, fuel consumption is also very economical at 7.8 litres (206 g/km CO2). This is the first time an all-wheel drive vehicle has been offered in this class whose CO2 emissions are less than 200 grams. Thanks to its 80-litre tank, the pick-up is also capable of ranges of over 1,000 kilometres! All Amarok pick-ups are equipped with an upshift indicator as well to assist drivers in attaining an economical mode of driving.


Three drive variants:
Dynamic and safe on all roads

For power transfer, three different drive concepts are offered – each tailored for a specific market: full-time all-wheel drive, switchable all-wheel drive and rear-wheel drive. In the base version, the Amarok has rear-wheel drive. This version is intended for customers who mainly chose the pick-up for its body form and its versatility.

The two all-wheel drive variants are right at home on all terrains. The ideal choice for journeys up hill and down dale is the Amarok 4MOTION with switchable all-wheel drive and a red “4” in its signature. Making its appearance with full-time all-wheel drive and greater comfort is the Amarok 4MOTION with a black “4”. It exhibits the same vehicle dynamics advantages offered by all-wheel drive, but for paved roads.

The Amarok with switchable all-wheel drive uses a positive clutch that is practice proven in the pick-up segment. When engaged by the push of a button, it produces rigid power transfer between the axles. For the most difficult jobs, low off-road gearing is also provided, making it easy to take on complicated off-road passages; the truck can even conquer 100 percent gradients with full cargo loading. The progressively tuned heavy-duty spring pack guarantees a high overload safety factor with its three main and two auxiliary spring plates.

The full-time all-wheel drive version is a rarity in its class. The Torsen differential distributes drive forces at a 40:60 ratio to the front and rear axles, and this simultaneously assures both excellent vehicle dynamics and high traction. In addition, selective braking interventions in tough terrain ensure that the wheel with the best traction always gets the most engine power. This drive concept is paired with a chassis that was specially tuned for comfort.

An optional rear differential lock is available for all drive types.


From utility truck to lifestyle pick-up:
Three equipment lines for a wide range of demands

Three equipment lines are available on the Amarok. The base version relies on purely mechanical and extremely robust components – with manual operation of the windows, door locks and mirror adjustment. The front bumper, door handles and mirrors are not painted, making them ideal for heavy duty use. The base version stands on standard 16-inch steel. Other standard features: height-adjustable front seats, variable folding rear bench seat, locking glove compartment and cargo platform lighting. A special feature: antennas integrated in the outside mirrors.

One grade more luxurious is the Amarok Trendline. On this version, the front bumper, door handles and mirror housings are painted in body colour. Window lifts, door locking and mirror adjustment are all electrically operated. In addition, a radio with CD player, climate control (Climatic), multi-functional display, cruise control system and front fog lights are all standard equipment. 16-inch aluminium wheels underscore the truck’s strong appearance.

The exclusive Amarok Highline is equipped for enhanced comfort. Building on the Trendline equipment line, the Highline is upgraded by features such as part-chrome mirror housings, various chrome accents outside and inside the vehicle and fender skirt extensions in body colour that create space for 17-inch aluminium wheels. In addition, the top equipment line is characterised by a colour contrasting instrument panel ? depending on vehicle configuration ?, automatic climate control (Climatronic), leather detailing, an even higher end sound system and elegant fabric seat covers.

Besides this wide range of features, an extensive accessories programme is also offered for the Amarok – from a styling bar to running boards, cargo cover and Multi-Connect load securing system (standard from Trendline) and a selection of alloy wheels.


Lots of space for occupants and cargo:
Generously sized interior and widest load space in its class

Interior: The large and ergonomically designed interior, the largest in its class, bears a close resemblance to other Volkswagen models. Easy entry, generous space and lots of headroom characterise the “workplace” behind the steering wheel. These properties and ample legroom for passengers on the rear bench make the Amarok a full-fledged five-seater. When just two persons are aboard, interior storage space can be increased by folding the tall rear seat.

Exterior: The Amarok’s cargo area delivers the largest dimensions of its class. On a truck bed height of just 525 millimetres, the cargo area measures 2.52 square meters (1,555 millimetre length, 1,620 millimetre width). But that is not all: Also “Best in class” is the 1,222 millimetre width between wheel wells. For the first time on a mid-size pick-up, it is possible to load Euro pallets sideways, saving on space. Thanks to its large dimensions and a payload capacity of up to 1.15 tonnes, sports equipment like quads and bulky machinery can also be transported. Four tie-down eyes in the corners of the truck bed protect cargo during the drive. In addition, the (optional) “hitch” can handle up to 2.8 tonnes trailer load.


Four airbags, ESP, ASR, ABS and assistance systems:
The Amarok sets standards in its class for safety

Naturally, the Amarok has height-adjustable head restraints and seatbelts at all five of its seating positions. The belts on the front seats are equipped with belt tensioners and are coupled to a visual and acoustic belt warning system. Side curtain airbags for head protection are also available for the driver and front passenger. ABS and ASR are standard features on the Amarok as is the electronic differential lock (EDL). Another standard feature activated by pushbutton is Off-Road ABS, which significantly shortens braking distances on off-road trails and gravel roads. If the optional ESP system is installed, when Offroad-ABS is enabled at vehicle speeds under 30 km/h this also activates Hill Descent Assist. It keeps driving speed constant by selective braking interventions, enabling safe and controlled hill descents. For the first time in this vehicle class, when driving under 30 km/h the driver can individually set the driving speed for the given descent conditions by braking and accelerating.

Furthermore, all vehicles are equipped with ESP plus Hill Hold Assist, which holds the vehicle in place while driving uphill until the driver presses the accelerator pedal enough to prevent rolling back.

Launch in South America; to be followed by Australia and South Africa as well as Europe

Key markets for the Amarok are South America, South Africa and Australia; in these markets pick-ups are some of the most sought after recreational and commercial vehicles, because of their versatility. Thanks to its efficient drive technology and tremendous versatility, the Amarok is also expected to be a trendsetter in the contemporary pick-up class in Europe. Its market launch in South America is scheduled for early 2010, and Europe will follow in the second half of 2010.
Source:Volkswagen

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Lexus Park Lane appointed European sales centre

Lexus LFA at Park Lane, London

London has a new must-see attraction with the arrival of the Lexus LFA at Lexus Park Lane.

The Mayfair showroom has been selected by Lexus as the centre for all European LFA sales, reflecting the car's status as one of the most exclusive machines money can buy. The V10-powered supercar has attracted huge attention worldwide since its official launch at the Tokyo motor show and met with critical acclaim for its performance, handling and advanced design and engineering. Just 500 examples are destined to be built, with only a proportion of this total made available to European customers.

A car that is as distinctive, sophisticated and sought-after as the Lexus LFA calls for a very special customer purchasing experience. To achieve this, a bespoke showroom has been created within Lexus Park Lane and a Personal Liaison Manager has been appointed to handle all sales matters.


Lexus LFA at Park Lane, London

A VIP selection room has also been opened, where customers can discuss their requirements on a one-to-one basis in comfortable, discreet surroundings.

The man at the heart of the operation is Devshi Varsani. A Lexus Park Lane employee of long-standing, he brings a wealth of expert knowledge to the liaison manager role and extensive experience in dealing with international clients through his work in diplomatic and corporate sales.

"The LFA is an exceptional car for Lexus and is attracting huge interest right around the world," said Devshi. "I am hugely excited at the prospect of introducing customers to the car and feel as though the world is looking over my shoulder.


Lexus LFA personal liaison manager Devshi Varsani

"Lexus has a world-leading reputation for customer service and I will be playing my part in ensuring the people who purchase the LFA, wherever they come from in Europe, are given all the assistance and support they require.

"Since LFA was unveiled to the world last month, we have experienced a strong demand from prospective customers from across Europe.

"Having the car on display in our showroom will allow these potential customers to come see the supercar in the flesh, an important part of the sales process for such an extraordinary car."


Lexus LFA at Park Lane, London

LFA Sales Programme

Lexus has drawn up a unique sales strategy for sales and delivery of the LFA in Europe, taking into account the car's exclusivity and anticipating exceptional requirements from prospective owners.

Prospective owners are able to make initial enquiries via Lexus Centres, Lexus national marketing and sales companies, or on-line at the dedicated LFA web site at www.lexus-lfa.com. These will be forwarded to and followed up by the Personal Liaison Manager and if the customer wishes to proceed, an "expression of interest" form will be completed together with payment of an initial deposit.


Lexus LFA at Park Lane, London

Orders will be taken from March/April next year, with further consultation between the Personal Liaison Manager and the customer on their desired specifications and personalisation preferences, such as body and interior colours, wheel designs and equipment features. At this point an indication will be made of the potential individual delivery date: as each LFA is individually hand-crafted, deliveries to customers begin in 2011 and continue for two years. On signing a contract, the customer will be required to make a deposit.

All European cars will be fully sold to the customer.
Source:worldcarfans

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VIDEO: ALL-NEW AUDI A8 TRAVELS LIGHT TO MIAMI DEBUT

All-aluminium construction and an array of advanced technology enables new Audi flagship to take an even more responsible approach to luxury

• All-new Audi luxury saloon opens for order this month for first deliveries in spring 2010 - OTR prices from £54,760 to £66,240

• Highlights include all-LED headlights, new touch screen Multi Media Interface (MMI) incorporating new ‘anticipatory' satellite navigation with night vision, Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system with optional sports differential

• Launches with three enhanced FSI and TDI engines with more power and torque and economy improvements of up to 22 per cent, mated to new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission and latest generation quattro all-wheel-drive with asymmetric torque distribution

• All models feature energy recuperation technology, 3.0 TDI versions also include engine start-stop function

• Additional 3.0 TDI engine with 204PS and lowest-in-class CO2 output of 159g/km to follow in 2010

The last word in luxury and the height of efficiency converge in the all-new Audi A8, which makes its world public debut this week at the Design Miami exhibition in Florida, USA. Crafted entirely from lightweight aluminium like its forebears, and bristling with new technology that not only contributes to best-in-class economy and exemplary comfort but also to even greater dynamic accomplishment, the elegant new flagship of the Audi saloon range opens for UK order this month priced from £54,760 OTR.


Packed inside the even lighter and 24 per cent more rigid evolution of the aluminium Audi Space Frame (ASF) which forms the ‘skeleton' of the new A8 are myriad new technological advances. These of course include fundamentals such as economy and emissions advantages for the three significantly reworked FSI and TDI engines that will be available from launch - the 3.0-litre V6 TDI with 250PS and 550Nm of torque (up from 233PS and 450Nm), the 4.2-litre V8 TDI with 350PS and 800Nm (up from 326PS and 650Nm) and the 4.2-litre V8 FSI with 372PS and 445Nm (up from 350PS and 440Nm).

The upgraded 4.2-litre FSI benefits from a 13 per cent improvement in fuel economy, taking its combined figure to 29.7mpg and dropping CO2 output to 219g/km. The equivalent V8 TDI gets a 19 per cent boost to 37.2mpg with CO2 emissions down to 199g/km, while the 3.0-litre TDI moves to the top of the luxury saloon class in economy terms with a 22 per cent economy hike to 42.8mpg with CO2 of 174g/km.

During 2010, an even more economy and emissions-focused version of the 3.0-litre TDI unit will be added. Driving the front wheels only, it will combine a 204PS power peak with 47.1mpg economy on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 159g/km.

All engines are complemented by recuperation technology which provides further fuel and CO2 savings by recycling a proportion of the wasted kinetic energy which is generated under normal braking and normally dissipated as heat, and storing this temporarily in the vehicle battery to reduce the engine load when the car subsequently accelerates again. The A8 3.0 TDI also saves fuel through its engine start-stop function, cutting engine power at idle when the brake pedal is depressed, and then restarting in just two-tenths of a second when it is released.

The much improved efficiency of these enhanced engines is matched by the new eight-speed tiptronic automatic transmission with which all of them work. With an especially high overall gear ratio of 7.0:1, it reduces overall fuel consumption by around six per cent, but is equally notable for its quick and virtually seamless changes.


Satellite navigation influences gear shift strategy

This advanced transmission can also ‘talk' to the new, next generation MMI Touch in-car infotainment system, networking with the detailed route data supplied by its inbuilt navigation system to factor corners into its gearshift strategy and avoid unnecessary, fuel-sapping gear changes. The state-of-the-art adaptive cruise control and adaptive light swivelling cornering light systems are also influenced by feedback from the navigation unit.

As well as ultra-intelligent 3D navigation mapping, the new touch screen Multi Media Interface, or MMI Touch, can also store audio tracks and telephone data on its sizeable hard disk. To enter a destination or phone number, the driver need only now draw the required letters or numbers with their index finger on the touch screen.

As an option, a GPRS module can also be specified. Fed with news and weather information from the Web by internet service provider Google, it enables A8 drivers to plot detailed routes on a home computer and download them to the navigation system when they start a trip. During 2010, the system will also be upgraded with a UMTS module which will enable Google Earth images to be beamed to the MMI monitor in 3D for navigation purposes. Eventually, full internet connection via UMTS will be possible, making the A8 a mobile WLAN hotspot.


Audi drive select and sport differential make A8 debut

High technology has also filtered even deeper into the chassis of the A8, which already offered sophisticated aluminium suspension refined by adaptive four-mode air springs. This system has been further improved in the interest of ride comfort by newly developed struts with enlarged air capacity, and is now backed up by the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system. Audi drive select enables the driver to fine-tune throttle response, steering assistance and transmission shift points to suit personal preferences or prevailing road conditions.
The active sport differential which won so much critical acclaim at its debut in the S4 quattro further enhances 4.2 TDI models as standard, and can be added at extra cost for all other models. The new differential enables the latest generation asymmetric quattro system to not only transfer torque between the front and rear axles to counter traction losses, but also between the rear wheels. When the steering wheel is turned or the car accelerated in a corner, power is redirected in a controlled manner to the outer rear wheel, literally pushing the car through the corner. The driver benefits from reduced steering effort and a feeling of even greater adjustability and control. In addition, dynamic steering, allowing alteration of the actual ratio of the steering for optimum feel, can be added at extra cost.
The most rigid body shell in the premium sector helps not only to maximise agility in the new A8, but also to boost safety in conjunction with adaptive restraint systems and the new Audi pre-sense system which is fitted as standard.
In its standard form the pre-sense system analyzes the information from the ESP sensors. When they signal maximum brake application or skidding, the control unit intervenes. Depending on the situation, it activates the hazard warning lights and closes the side windows and the sunroof; it also tensions the front seat belts. Electric motors trigger this process, which is reversible - if the situation ends well, the belts are released again.
The system can be expanded at extra cost to include Audi pre-sense front, Audi pre- sense plus and Audi pre-sense rear. These are integrated in the optional adaptive cruise control with stop & go function and Audi side assist systems.
Working with Adaptive Cruise Control stop & go, Audi pre-sense front monitors the traffic in front of the new Audi A8 and supports the driver in multiple stages. The first is a warning signal, and the second a warning jerk in the form of a brief deceleration. If the driver now depresses the pedal, the brake assist system initiates precise braking relative to the preceding vehicle. If the driver remains passive, the third stage follows - autonomous partial braking that slows the A8 at a rate of 3 m/s2. Windows and the sunroof are closed, the hazard warning lights are activated and the seat belts are tensioned.
If the full version of Audi pre-sense plus is on board, a fourth stage comes into play: braking with an initial deceleration of 5 m/s2 followed by maximum braking. This phase is initiated roughly one half second before the collision. While a collision can no longer be avoided in this case, its consequences are greatly reduced - up to impact the A8 has reduced the speed by about 25mph.
The Audi pre-sense rear system mitigates the consequences of a rear end collision. Here, too, it closes the windows and sunroof, tensions the seat belts and moves the memory front seats into the optimum position for passenger protection.
In this safe haven, A8 passengers are surrounded by high-quality workmanship showing attention to the smallest detail, and of course the leading edge technology that defines the Vorsprung durch Technik brand. Swathed in supple Valcona leather, shielded from the elements by double glazing and bathed in soothing LED ambient lighting the interior's highlights include the Audi Parking System Plus, DAB digital radio, four-zone climate control, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, MMI Touch infotainment incorporating HDD satellite navigation with predictive route technology, cruise control and a keyless go system.
Two specification levels will be available to UK A8 customers - SE and SE Executive - the latter adding to this equipment list features such as electrically operated boot closing, the Audi Parking System Advanced with rear parking camera and larger 19-inch wheels in place of the 18-inch design fitted to SE models.
To create an even more exceptional looking A8, customers will be able to specify all-LED headlights in place of the standard Xenon set-up, and for even greater opulence five-mode seats with ventilation and massage function, a rear seat entertainment package and a 1,400-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system.
Online connectivity, night vision assist capable of marking out pedestrians, Audi side and lane assist and Audi pre-sense expansion packages will also be available to further enhance this technological tour de force.

New Audi A8 SE Models
Engines	Power	Transmission	Basic RRP	Total RRP	Recommended OTR
4.2 FSI quattro	372PS	8-speed tiptronic	£51,736.17	£60,790.00	£61,640.00
3.0 TDI quattro	250PS	8-speed tiptronic	£45,914.89	£53,950.00	£54,760.00
4.2 TDI quattro	350PS	8-speed tiptronic	£53,480.85	£62,840.00	£63,690.00

SE Executive specification will carry a premium of £2,550 in each case


The Audi brand exceeded the milestone 100,000 sales mark in the UK in 2007 and 2008. Globally, the brand exceeded 1 million deliveries for the first time in its history in 2008. With its programmes for both road and race cars the brand continues to maintain its upward trajectory. On the road it has extended its reach into important new segments with new models such as the A5 Sportback, the Q5, the TT RS and the R8 5.2 FSI quattro, and in the near future will break further new ground with the A1 compact hatchback and the Q3 compact SUV. On the race circuit Audi Sport has contested the Le Mans 24-hour marathon eleven times since 1999, achieving a podium finish on all of these occasions and outright victory a total of 8 times.
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