Visitors to Goodwood Festival of Speed will enjoy a unique opportunity to witness the new Murciélago LP640 making its UK debut by ‘going up the hill’, whilst in the Cartier Style et Luxe paddock, original Miura models will be accompanied by the Miura Concept car.

The Murciélago LP640 was unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show earlier this year. The LP640 at Goodwood is the first of the new Murciélago models to arrive in the UK, and will be driven by one of the factory’s test drivers, Valentino Balboni.

The Miura Concept car was the first Lamborghini vehicle to be conjured from the pen of Walter de’ Silva, Head of Lamborghini Design. De Silva’s other responsibilities include serving as Head of Design of Audi Group. The Miura Concept is a retro-inspired concept car heralding back to one of the automotive world’s most famous icons, the legendary Lamborghini Miura. Designed in celebration of the Miura’s fortieth anniversary and with no plans for production, the Miura Concept will be displayed alongside original Miura models.

Official Lamborghini merchandise will also be retailed at Goodwood Festival of Speed, in unit 151 in the merchandise and retailing area by the start line.

Lamborghini opened two further dealerships in the UK in May in Edinburgh and Birmingham, joining the existing outlets in London and Manchester.

INTRODUCTION

Jaguar is proud to unveil its new supercharged sports car – the Jaguar XKR. Building on the excellence of the all-new XK introduced in late 2005, the XKR takes the Jaguar experience to new heights.

Like the normally aspirated XK model, the new XKR makes intelligent use of practical, modern technology such as its industry-leading aluminium monocoque body structure. In addition, an uprated 420bhp (SAE) supercharged V8 engine and class-leading calibration of its state-of-the-art, six-speed automatic transmission bring it a level of accessible, real-world performance that makes the XKR the most impressive, everyday, sporting GT in its class.

And the XKR’s powerful statement of intent is emphatically reinforced by enhanced sporting styling cues such as a unique front bumper, aluminium-finish grilles and bonnet louvers; unique 19 and 20-inch alloy wheel designs and a quad-exhaust system add to its overall presence.

"The new supercharged XKR captures perfectly the essence of what makes a Jaguar XK so special," commented Bibiana Boerio, Jaguar Cars managing director. "It is a flawless combination of refined Grand Tourer and serious performance sports car, that delivers a truly rewarding and exhilarating driving experience."

NEW JAGUAR XKR AT A GLANCE

* New supercharged Jaguar XK sports car – the XKR, available as a Coupe or Convertible
* All the attractions and attributes of the XK – but amplified in the ‘R’ to complement the extra power and performance
* 4.2-litre, supercharged V8 engine developing 420bhp and 560Nm of torque
* 0-60mph time of 4.9 seconds and 155mph (electronically limited) top speed. 50-70mph in just 2.5 seconds
* All-aluminium construction means a lighter, stiffer car, improving handling and agility. At 1665kg, the Coupe is 70kg lighter than its predecessor, while the 1715kg Convertible is 100kg lighter than the previous convertible XKR
* Uprated springs and dampers and recalibrated Computer Active Technology Suspension system for enhanced ride and handling
* Class-leading six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted ‘paddles’ for ultra-quick gear shifts
* Active Exhaust System to ensure cruising speed refinement but purposeful V8 roar under hard acceleration.
* Subtle XKR exterior styling enhancements include a sportier grille and front bumper design, louvred bonnet, unique aluminium-effect side power vents and new wheel designs
* Enhanced interior includes unique aluminium ‘weave’ design on the fascia (polished burr walnut is optional at no extra cost) and XKR sports seats
* Intuitive controls and driver-focussed technologies are available – including Keyless Entry, Keyless Start, advanced Touchscreen and Active Front Lighting
* Occupies unique market position, with performance to match rivals costing up to £30,000 more but price to match less well-performing rival models
* In summary, the epitome of a contemporary Jaguar Grand Touring sports car and a perfect illustration of the marque’s philosophy of building beautiful, fast cars
* Available to order from July onwards, with prices starting at £67,495 – a premium of just 12.5% over the normally aspirated XK

DRIVING DYNAMICS

Driving the new XKR – exhilaration redefined

The new 420bhp (SAE) Jaguar XKR is a sensational car to drive. With 120bhp (SAE) more power than the normally aspirated 4.2-litre XK, the same strong and stiff aluminium body structure that ensures superb ride and handling, and a six-speed automatic transmission with Jaguar Sequential Shift that is regarded as class-leading in terms of gearchange speed as well as refinement, Jaguar’s blend of performance and dynamics reaches new heights with the XKR.

"Our aim when engineering the new XKR was to ensure that the car’s character remained balanced despite the significant increase in power over the normally aspirated XK," explains Jaguar’s chief engineer, Mike Cross. "Our engineering team worked to the brief of creating a car that is 120% and more of an XK – the ultimate sports GT for the real world. We wanted the performance and dynamism you would expect of an XKR but were careful to retain that exceptional blend of sporting luxury that every Jaguar must have and which was so convincingly demonstrated with the XK. The bottom line is: if you like the XK, you’ll absolutely love the new XKR."

The result of that engineering brief is a car that performs in any conditions, at any speed. With superb torque at low engine speeds, instant acceleration is always available should you demand it. Similarly, the advanced steering and suspension set-up means the new XKR switches effortlessly from relaxed grand tourer to honed sports car with ease. It is everything the XK is and much more besides.

Supercharged 4.2-litre engine

The ability to call upon impressive reserves of power and acceleration in an instant is the hallmark of every great Jaguar. The new XKR ensures this by using a remarkable 4.2-litre supercharged AJ-V8 engine. Producing 420bhp (SAE) at 6250rpm and 560Nm (EEC) of torque at 4000rpm it is capable of propelling the Coupe version to 60mph in 4.9 seconds (5.0 seconds for the Convertible) and onto an electronically limited top speed of 155mph (250km/h).

The addition of a supercharger and twin air intakes means the new XKR benefits from a 120bhp (SAE) power increase over the normally aspirated 4.2-litre XK with which it shares its engine configuration. Torque, so essential for instant acceleration at any engine speed, also increases significantly – by 36% over the XK, although the overall weight of the XKR is raised by just 70kg. Consequently the power-to-weight ratio compared to the normally aspirated 4.2-litre XK is an impressive 34% higher.

And in comparison to the previous generation XKR, the new engine produces 7.7% more power and 3.3% more torque. Combined with the significantly stiffer and lighter aluminium monocoque body structure of the new XKR, these performance improvements lead to a significant leap in the power-to-weight ratio of 12% over the previous XKR and an equally useful jump of 7.7% in the torque-to-weight ratio. To achieve the equivalent improvements in power and torque-to-weight in the outgoing XKR would have required nearly 50 more horsepower. Consequently, the 0-60mph sprint time of the new XKR Coupe is reduced by 0.3 seconds.

The heart of these significant performance improvements is the XKR’s lightweight eight-cylinder engine with an Eaton supercharger. The water-cooled cylinders are arranged in a 90-degree V configuration and the crankshaft is supported by five main bearings. Each of the two cylinder head assemblies incorporates twin camshafts operating four valves per cylinder. One of the reasons for the engine’s impressive output is the continuously variable valve timing which helps to deliver a wide spread of torque. The engine uses an Electronic Return-less Fuel System (ERFS) and a three-way catalyst exhaust system.

The increase in power and torque over the outgoing XKR model is down to two significant additions to the engine. The air intake supply to the engine has been significantly enhanced thanks to the use of twin air inlets and a Variable Inlet Camshaft Timing system is used for the first time on the XKR. By continuously adjusting the timing of the inlet camshaft on both banks of the V8 depending on the engine speed and load, Jaguar’s engineers have ensured large improvements in torque, particularly at lower revs.

The system is controlled by the Engine Management System (EMS) which receives engine speed, throttle position and oil temperature data from its sensors. The EMS determines the correct inlet camshaft timing by continuously referring to a digital three-dimensional map developed to provide optimum performance. The EMS then transmits the appropriate signals to two solenoids that control the degree of hydraulic force provided to the valve actuators.

The normally aspirated 4.2-litre XK has been praised for its acoustic qualities, remaining unobtrusive and relaxed at modest speeds but producing an unmistakeable V8 soundtrack when worked hard. On the XKR, the presence of supercharger whine threatened to dominate the acoustic character and mask the underlying sound quality. However, through enhancements to the vehicle acoustic pack, the supercharger noise has been reduced by 5dB compared to the previous XKR.

This approach to acoustics allowed the engineers to concentrate on using the exhaust system to deliver the best possible sound quality character. This was accomplished through the use of the XKR’s Active Exhaust system which varies the flow of exhaust gases through the main silencer box to ensure that the XKR remains quiet at cruising speeds but delivers a substantially more purposeful sound quality character under hard acceleration.

Transmission

Jaguar's Sequential Shift uniquely combines all the speed and involvement of a sequential manual gearbox with the comfort and convenience of a full automatic. The system consists of steering wheel-mounted paddles and a conventional gear selector lever, allowing the driver to switch between three automatic or paddle-operated gearbox modes.

Whereas an automated manual gearbox interrupts the flow of torque during the gearchange – while the clutch is disengaged – the Jaguar's gearbox maintains the flow of torque throughout the shifting process. This results in gearchanges that are not only quick, but also remarkably smooth. Gearshifts are achieved in less than 600 milliseconds, from the point at which the driver operates the shift paddle to the point at which the shift is complete.

In fact, during development, comparison tests between Jaguar Sequential Shift and rival automatic transmissions in the class showed the transmission to be the fastest system of all, changing gear at least 400 milliseconds faster than a standard automatic and 100 milliseconds faster than the best automated manual system.

The three gearbox modes give the driver total flexibility to use the transmission to match whatever driving style he or she chooses. In Drive mode, the gearbox behaves as a conventional automatic, with the software optimised for every day driving conditions providing all the benefits of a best-in-class automatic transmission.

In Sport mode, the gearbox's adaptive software becomes more prevalent, adapting and reacting more dynamically to demanding conditions. This software takes account of the prevailing conditions and driver's inputs and adapts accordingly. For example, it recognises when the car is negotiating a curve, and holds the gear accordingly; Hill Recognition enables the XKR to choose the ratios to optimise the ascent or descent of a hill; the gearbox’s software will also match the engine speed precisely to the engine and road speeds, ‘blipping’ the throttle during rapid downshifts.

Manual mode is activated by simply operating one of the steering wheel-mounted paddles, and delivers a state-of-the-art manual gear shift feel from the automatic transmission.

CHASSIS, SUSPENSION AND BRAKES

To ensure optimum ride and handling the XKR’s springs and dampers are uprated compared to the normally aspirated XK. The front spring rate is increased by 38% and the rear spring rate by 24%. Allied to the Servotronic steering system, which has also been tuned both mechanically and electronically to give the steering more weight and even greater response, the uprated suspension ensures confidence-inspiring handling without any loss in refinement and comfort levels.

Because of the inherent strength and stiffness of the chassis, the only significant addition to the XKR’s structure is an additional rear suspension brace mounted between the rear damper towers to accommodate the significant increase in rear spring rate. This also allows the Convertible to utilise the same dynamic settings as the Coupe model.

The Computer Active Technology Suspension (a two-stage adaptive damping system that ensures the optimum balance between ride and handling) and new switchable Dynamic Stability Control with Traction Control System (Trac DSC) have also been recalibrated to cope with the additional power of the supercharged engine.

As significant to the XKR as the increases in power and torque are the major improvements in strength and weight thanks to its advanced all-aluminium architecture. Unique in the industry as a complete aluminium monocoque body structure, as distinct from an aluminium spaceframe with separate aluminium exterior panels, its properties come from both the way the bodyshell is designed and constructed and the use of new joining technologies.

In fact, the new XKR’s aluminium chassis is significantly lighter and stiffer in both Coupe and Convertible form than the steel model it replaces. The Coupe chassis is over 30 percent stiffer than the previous XK, while the Convertible is over 40 percent stiffer. As a consequence the XKR accelerates faster than the previous model, while offering high levels of safety, reduced noise and vibration intrusion, and improved ride and handling characteristics thanks to improved suspension dynamics.

The new XKR Coupe is also stiffer and lighter than the Mercedes-Benz SL55 AMG, with a kerb weight of just 1665kg – some 290kg less than the Mercedes. In Convertible form the BIW weight, at just 287kg is 19 percent lighter than the previous XKR Convertible.

New, larger ventilated brake discs at the front ensure higher braking performance for the XKR. The front brake disc diameter has increased from 326mm to 355mm and the thickness from 30mm to 32mm, which not only improves the braking performance but also the system’s resistance to fade. The braking system also includes four-channel ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution, Hydraulic Brake Assist to increase brake pressure during an emergency stop, and Jaguar’s Electronic Park Brake function.

Design

With the much-admired new XK already considered a future design classic, Jaguar’s creative team, led by Ian Callum, had a great starting point from which to produce the XKR. The XK range’s elegant form draws on the lineage of the original XK and E-type sports cars, and by blending this unmistakeable Jaguar silhouette with contemporary flair its exterior forms a stunning blend of elegance, athleticism and definition. The XKR now takes this athletic look one stage further thanks to the addition of:

• New XKR front bumper with colour-keyed finish to unique front fog lamp housings

• Aluminium side power vent finish

• Bonnet louvres and unique ‘XKR’ aluminium finish to upper and lower front mesh grilles

• Aluminium finish to rear signature ‘blade’ and selected exterior brightwork finishers

• Unique ‘Jupiter’ design 19-inch alloy wheels as standard, with 20-inch ‘Cremona’ XKR wheel available as an option

• Black brake callipers with ‘R’ logo

• Quad exhaust system and unique lower bumper

• ‘R’ rear badge

Design Director Ian Callum explains the thinking behind the look of the new XKR:

"We talk at Jaguar of how our new generation of models are ‘beautiful, fast cars’. It’s a phrase that ideally sums up our brand and can be applied to every car we design. We were extremely proud of the reaction to the new XK when it was unveiled last year – it is as beautiful as you would expect a Jaguar sports car to be. Now the new XKR has a look that emphasises the ‘fast’ aspect of our design statement.

"The ‘powerline’ that runs from the front wheel through the cabin area and into the car’s rear haunches remains and we have added to that latent feeling of power by adding some strong performance features such as the louvres that signify the potent supercharger and the stunning new alloys that fill the wheel arches and give the car real purpose."

The new XK’s interior design has been just as highly praised and the XKR’s cabin represents arguably the most sophisticated yet driver-focussed environment of any car in its class. The XKR has class-leading ergonomics, user-friendly in-car technology and simple, clear information displays in the instrument panel and main dashboard area.

A unique sports seat design with additional lateral support for both the driver and front seat passenger has been added, with an ‘R’ badge on the headrests, tachometer, steering wheel and gear selector. The design of the standard aluminium interior veneer is also unique to the XKR, featuring a ‘weave’ pattern from the Advanced Lightweight Coupe showcar.

XKR customers can also specify the Luxury Sports interior option which features softgrain leather on the 16-way adjustable seats, instrument panel, door trim and centre console.

THE XKR MARKETPLACE

Like the normally aspirated XK, the new XKR competes within the global sports car sector. In 1999 this sector accounted for just under 50,000 sales per year worldwide. Since that time the sector has doubled in size.

The XKR will appeal to a select group of affluent potential customers, who have an affinity with luxury products. They are looking for a grand tourer as well as a car with pure sporting credentials; one that provides exhilaration and escapism combined with status and exclusivity – ‘luxury in a sports skin’.

The new XKR, like all Jaguars, offers excellent value for money in the sports car market. With prices starting from £67,495, the XKR ensures customers will enjoy a considerable increase in performance over the normally aspirated XK for a relatively small price premium. They will also benefit from a significant performance advantage over rivals such as the Mercedes-Benz SL500, which is slower and heavier than the XKR, despite costing over £8000 more.

Furthermore, the XKR offers a full suite of comfort, convenience and technology features, the large majority of which (such as satellite navigation, BluetoothTM telephone, Touchscreen display and keyless start) are not standard on many rival cars of similar price, or even available at all.

And because of its advanced lightweight body structure and powerful supercharged engine, the XKR’s performance even matches cars that are not direct competitors in terms of either price or technical specification. For example, it beats the £81,760, 5.0-litre BMW M6 on torque-to-weight ratio and virtually matches the £99,045, 5.5-litre SL55 AMG on power-to-weight ratio.

Volvo has just announced details of a range of design changes and enhancements to the XC90’s exterior and interior, plus the exciting arrival of the 4.4-litre V8 and 3.2-litre six-cylinder engines.

The versatile interior still offers the flexibility of seven seats with 64 seating configurations, but has been enhanced with details such as Aux input for MPA or i-Pod connection (WMA compatible), a new display for audio and telephone systems, satin chrome inserts on various controls and air vents, improved door grab handle design and the introduction of Sovereign Hide soft leather upholstery – which is standard on the new SE Lux trim level.

The range-topping Executive model is also noticeably upgraded with a more premium feel to the exterior and interior with full Executive soft leather upholstery with double contrast stitching for all seven seats (or the option of Volvo’s Inscription™ range of soft leather upholstery), new 19in alloy wheels and chrome C-pillar and door mirror caps, plus Volvo’s awesome 650W Dynaudio Premium Sound audio system with Dolby Pro Logic Surround Sound and 12 Dynaudio speakers as standard.

The Volvo XC90 range is available from £32,820 (D5 S) up to £53,965 (V8 Executive).

o Subtle changes for 2007 Modus range
o Widest range of engines, gearboxes and trim levels in its class
o No price increase over current range

With the trend for car downsizing continuing unabated, Renault’s multi-award-winning Modus, the "small car with a big heart", has been given a fresh look for the 2007 model year and is on sale now.

The new range has quite a reputation to live up to. In just a little over a year, Modus has scooped numerous awards, including Diesel Car Best Supermini, Scottish Small Car of the Year and Test Drive magazine’s Compact MPV and Overall Readers Award. Based on this impressive awards haul, fans of the current Modus will be pleased to learn that the revised range will continue largely in the same vein as today’s, in terms of choice, design and price.

Renault’s spacious and versatile Modus has only been available in the UK since September 2004, so the changes to the new 2007 range are subtle, both inside and out, with the emphasis firmly on just refreshing the car’s already modern appearance rather than tampering with the car’s already popular combination of cheeky looks and practical interior.

The changes start with the exterior’s new clear ‘crystal’ indicator lenses for the front and rear lights and the wing mirror indicators, while on the inside each trim level gains new seat upholstery and higher quality interior materials for the dash and centre console.

In keeping with Modus’ contemporary style, seven of the most popular colours from the New Clio and Mégane 2006 ranges have been added to the new range: Antique Green, Capsicum Red, Extreme Blue, Hologram Grey, Pacific Blue, Quartz and Tempest. The entry-level Modus Authentique also now gains body coloured bumpers.

The 2007 model line-up offers the widest selection of engine, gearbox and trim level combinations in its class. The trim levels consist of: Authentique, Expression, Dynamique, Privilège and Initiale, with the only model not continued into the new range being the 1.4 16V 98 Initiale.

The Modus engine range is just as comprehensive, offering a powerplant to suit every kind of driving style whether it be for economy, refinement or power. A total of six engines are available, with three diesels – 68, 86 and 106hp, and three petrols – 75, 98 and 111hp, all driven via five-speed manual gearboxes with the exception of the dCi 106 which is six-speed. For more comfort and less driver stress in the city and on longer journeys, the clutchless Quickshift5 gearbox will continue to be available with the dCi 86 engine alongside an automatic gearbox for the 1.6 VVT 111 petrol.

The new Modus 2007 range is available to order now, priced from £9,145 on the road. For further information, see www.renault.co.uk or call 0800 52 51 50.

Audi is once again supporting the annual Goodwood Festival of Speed (7-9 July) by displaying its rich heritage of motorsport through the ages. The German prestige car manufacturer, which has supported Lord March’s annual motorsport extravaganza since 1998, will display and demonstrate a host of vehicles.

Audi "factory" driver Allan McNish will drive a 1936 Auto Union C-Type owned by the Audi Tradition Museum. Bringing the German manufacturer’s sporting achievements right up to date, McNish will also demonstrate the actual Le Mans 24 Hour race winning Audi R10 TDI which created history earlier this month (17-18 Jun) by becoming the first diesel-powered sportscar to win the prestigious French race.

First British public appearance for diesel-powered Audi sportscar in Britain

The Audi R10 TDI in the hands of Frank Biela/Emanuele Pirro/Marco Werner won the Le Mans race while McNish, partnered by Dindo Capello and Tom Kristensen, finished third. Audi’s new diesel-powered sportscar started from pole-position, led every lap, set the fastest race lap and also set a new race distance record on its Le Mans début - having won its first and only other race in March.

The Scotsman arrives in Goodwood from North America via RAF Wittering. McNish and co-driver Capello bring down the curtain on the phenomenally successful Audi R8’s seven year racing activity in the fourth round of the American Le Mans Series at Lime Rock (1 Jul). Meanwhile McNish will also have "challenged" a RAF Harrier "Jump Jet" down a 1-mile runway at RAF Wittering (6 Jul).

70th anniversary for European Championship winning Auto Union

The Auto Union C-Type which McNish drives is the famous 16-cylinder, six-litre "Silver Arrow", a car weighing over 16cwt (824kg) and capable of 211mph, similar to which Bernd Rosemeyer won the European Championship 70 years ago. In this era, cars carrying the Four Rings emblem, were victorious on 33 occasions in 59 races.

After World War II, all of the Auto Unions from Zwickau were taken to the Soviet Union and the whereabouts of many thereafter is unknown. To commemorate its achievements in vehicle technology, AUDI AG commissioned Crosthwaite & Gardiner, of Buxted in East Sussex, to build a replica of the C-type race car with its single-seater body. This replica was finished in 1998 and is now part of the Historic Collection of AUDI AG.

World début for "recreated" D-type

Meanwhile a 1939 Auto Union D-Type "recreated" by Roach Manufacturing plus Crosthwaite & Gardiner, which can be seen on static display, is the only type of its kind in the world and is making its world début at Goodwood. The D-Type’s first race with the unusual double-supercharger engine configuration was the 1939 Belgium Grand Prix while H.P. Müller won the car’s very next race (French GP).

Additionally an "original" V12 mid-engined 1938 Auto Union D-Type is also coming over from AUDI AG’s highly-acclaimed Museum in Ingolstadt. The D-Type was driven by the top Auto Union drivers Tazio Nuvolari, Hans Stuck, H.P. Müller, Georg Meier and Rudolf Hasse.

This actual chassis is one of the few to survive the exodus to the Soviet Union at the end of the war in 1945.

"Original" Audi quattro rallycar back at Goodwood

The actual "original" Audi quattro rallycar will be joined by a 1983 GpB Audi quattro A2 rally machine on Goodwood’s rally stage. Both ex-factory cars have been lovingly and superbly restored by Manchester-based quattro enthusiast John Hanlon.

"Flying Finn" Hannu Mikkola, who at the invitation of Lord March, has given advice on revisions to the extended rally stage since last year’s inaugural event, was reunited with the original 1980 quattro at last year’s Goodwood event and will once again drive the "original" Audi rallycar.

Hanlon’s latest acquisition, Michele Mouton’s 1985 Pikes Peak record breaking Audi quattro S1, will be driven up the hillclimb while Audi Tradition’s 1988 Trans Am championship-winning Audi 200 quattro machine also makes a rare visit to the UK and will be driven by former Audi Sport chief Dieter Basche.

AUDI AG motorsport successes have always been linked with ground-breaking developments - later adopted in to Audi’s roadcars. The best examples of these have been quattro, permanent four-wheel-drive, which celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2005 and revolutionised rallying in the 1980s.

Direct petrol injection (FSI) technology, giving excellent accelerator response and fuel economy, was used at Le Mans for the first time in 2001 and remains unbeaten in the French long-distance race between 2001-5. And following its recent history-making Le Mans victory with a diesel-powered sportscar, Audi ably continues to demonstrate its Vorsprung durch Technik slogan - progress through technology - to perfection.

White lines are a familiar part of the road landscape, but they all do a different job. The information they are intended to impart varies, despite the fact to the busy driver they all look the same.

As a rule of thumb, the more paint there is on the road surface, the more danger or potential danger there is at that point.

For example, do you know the difference between a short white line on the middle of the carriageway and a longer white line? The first marks the boundary of the lane, without any other information. The second also warns of a hazard: a potential danger point.

How about if there are two solid white lines running down the middle of the carriageway? This is to divide two opposing lanes of traffic and you cannot cross it except in certain specific circumstances – turning into/out of an entrance, passing a stationary vehicle or overtaking slow-moving vehicles, pedal cycles or horses. From time to time you will see a single solid white line, coupled with a dotted one, either on your side of the carriageway or the other. The line nearest your side of the road is the important one – if it is solid, the rule above applies!

One that gets forgotten sometimes is that it is an offence to park where there are double white lines in the centre of the road – even if there is room.

If you are ever uncertain of the meaning of a white line, make a point of checking the Highway Code. Things do change and it is quite important to keep up to date with new markings – or even reintroduce yourself to those you may have forgotten.

HUMMER will make its UK debut at the British International Motor Show at London’s ExCeL with a display featuring the legendary HUMMER H2 and the new, midsize, HUMMER H3 which is due to become available with right-hand drive during 2007.

HUMMER H2

The left-hand drive HUMMER H2 provides a unique combination of unrivalled off-road capability and on-road comfort, with a fully welded ladder-type frame chassis that features a modular, three-piece design incorporating a number of hydroformed components. The result is outstanding strength, stiffness and dimensional accuracy. Ensuring on-road ride comfort and control, as well as off-road capability, is the standard independent front torsion bar and five-link coil spring rear suspension. The solid rear axle ensures durable sure-footedness, particularly in tight, off-road situations. A self-leveling rear air spring suspension system is available for severe off-road and towing requirements.

The H2 has short overhangs for radical approach and departure angles, and exceptional ground clearance for minimal impact on trails. The 17-inch wheels and heavy-duty suspension provide superior handling, carrying and towing capability.

H2's power is derived from the Vortec 6000 6.0 litre V8 that produces 325 horsepower (242 kw) at 5200 rpm and 488 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm. The engine is mated to a heavy-duty Hydra-Matic 4L65-E four-speed automatic overdrive transmission. H2 also features a, powertrain-integrated Borg-Warner two-speed electrically controlled full-time 4WD system, which is capable of further reducing H2's gear ratios by 2.64:1 when necessary, for highly controlled obstacle climbing.

A Bosch four-channel anti-lock braking/traction control system (ABS/TCS) provides optimum control on slippery surfaces. In addition, the ABS can detect and adjust its braking capabilities to rough off-road surfaces like gravel and potholes. The TCS also includes the ability to gain traction through a single wheel where necessary and permit additional wheel slip in the traction control mode for sand and desert racing conditions.

HUMMER H3

The latest addition to the growing HUMMER range, the HUMMER H3, delivers authentic HUMMER style and off-road capability in a more accessible, midsize package. Compared with the H2, the left-hand drive H3 is 429 mm shorter, 152 mm lower and 165 mm narrower.

Powered by the Vortec 3500 engine with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing, this 3.5 litre in-line five-cylinder unit produces 220 horsepower (162 kw) at 5600 rpm and 305 Nm of torque at 2800 rpm.

H3 is the first HUMMER to offer the choice of transmission – either a standard, smooth-shifting five-speed manual transmission or a Hydra-Matic 4L60-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission.

At the heart of the H3 is the electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system. The system is augmented with features such as traction control, underbody shielding, an optional rear locking differential and StabiliTrak stability control with the automatic transmission.

The H3’s manoeuvrable size results in a 11.3 m turning circle. The 231 mm ground clearance and maximum break-over angle of 25 degrees both make it possible to clear large obstacles in off-road driving. Serious off-road performance is also aided by the maximum approach angle of 40 degrees and maximum departure angle of 37 degrees.

Starting in the fourth quarter of 2006, the HUMMER H3 will be assembled at a second location, the General Motors plant in Struandale, South Africa. The additional volume is scheduled for markets in Europe, Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa. A right-hand drive version of the H3 will be added to the South African production in early 2007, to be followed by an optional diesel engine later. General Motors South Africa will be the only manufacturing site outside of the United States to assemble the HUMMER H3. Production of the H3 began in spring 2005 at GM’s Shreveport, Louisiana, plant in the United States.

HUMMER SALES

The global expansion of the HUMMER brand has seen sales nearly double in 2005 (61,000 2005; 31,000 units in 2004). While much of this growth was led by the H3 in the United States of America, HUMMER also saw significant expansion in Europe, Mexico, Canada and the Middle East. Details of the official HUMMER licencee in the UK, Bauer Millett, can be found on www.bauer-millett.com

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 28 March 2006
The Range Rover Sport, the most dynamic Land Rover ever, now gets an even more exciting look to the new flagship, the Supercharged 'HST' specification.

Having received its UK debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed Press Launch for 2006, the HST adds a host of additional equipment along with dramatic design cues inspired by the Range Stormer concept car, first shown at the Detroit auto show in January 2004. "The HST allows a Range Rover Sport customer to drive the closest thing there is to the radical Range Stormer, our first ever concept vehicle and a real milestone for the company," says Land Rover UK managing director, John Edwards.

The new HST will be based on the Supercharged specification with the additional equipment including: electric sunroof, an electronic active locking rear differential and privacy glass. The interior is distinguished by a unique hand polished lined oak trim. The exterior design is the work of the same Land Rover team that created the original Range Stormer. It includes new flush-fitting front and rear bumpers and a new larger open-mouth grille. The front lower air intake is deeper and new front fog lamps are mounted in the spoiler. The lower doors and lower rear boot are body-coloured, making the body sides appear deeper, accentuating the vehicle’s road-hugging qualities. A new tail spoiler is also fitted, and the special rectangular tail-pipes are close to those used on the original Range Stormer concept vehicle. Further visual impact is provided by the 20 inch 'Stormer' alloy wheels, chromed aluminium side vents and body-coloured door mirror cappings, unique to this derivative.

"The HST gives the Range Rover Sport an especially impressive stance, hunkered down tight to the road," says Land Rover design director, Geoff Upex. "It's the extreme version of the Range Rover Sport, the design that will be chosen by those who want to stand out from the crowd." The HST is available in five colours; Bonatti Grey, Cairns Blue, Java Black, Rimini Red and Zermatt Silver. Performance figures are the same as the standard Supercharged model. As a Land Rover, the HST will naturally still have off-road capability. The removable chin spoiler means that approach and departure angles are as good as the standard vehicle.

"The Range Rover Sport continues to be a major success for Land Rover, with strong order banks in most markets," says John Edwards. "It appeals not only to those who want a dynamic 4x4 but also to customers who want comfort and refinement. That's why we call it a Sports Tourer. Customers are coming not just from competitor 4x4s but also from premium saloons. They value the extra all-round command driving and breadth of capability that only a Land Rover can offer."

The Range Rover Sport HST is now on sale from £63,000 on the road. For more information contact your local Land Rover dealership or visit www.landrover.co.uk

Land Rover Enthusiast and Land Rover Brotherhood have joined together to provide Land Rover owners with the best information on stolen Land Rovers from Europe and the United Kingdom.

If your Land Rover has been stolen recently please email us with the following information along with any pictures that you might have. This information will be posted on www.mystolenlandrover.com and Land Rover Enthusiast’s Theft Alert page. Any information that we receive will be sent to you immediately.

As the price of motoring continues to spiral and with fuel costs at their highest for 20 years, Subaru (UK) Limited has announced its most compelling consumer offer ever.

Equivalent to nearly two years’ free fuel for the average driver, free fuel vouchers up to the value of £3,000 will be issued to customers buying selected Subaru models. All other Subaru models will attract £1,000 worth of vouchers.

The Subaru models with £3,000 of fuel vouchers are:

Subaru Impreza WRX 4dr – all models

Subaru Impreza WRX 5dr – all models

Subaru Impreza STI – all models

Subaru Forester 2.5XTn - Manual Transmission

Subaru Legacy 3.0 spec. B Saloon – all models

Subaru Legacy 3.0 spec. B Sports Tourer – all models

ALL other Subaru models will have £1,000 of fuel vouchers.

Subaru customers will then claim their free fuel by presenting the ‘Subaru All Star’ vouchers at any of the 10,000 participating garages nationwide.

This offer applies to new Subaru cars sold through the authorised UK Subaru dealer network and registered between 1 July and 30 September 2006 and excludes all other offers and promotions.

Commenting on the promotion, Peter Kinnaird, Managing Director, Subaru (UK) Limited said: "The recent increases in the cost of fuel have made motorists even more cost conscious. Most pundits think that petrol prices will fall again in future, and our highly topical offer may well shield Subaru buyers during this current high point. But more than that, we want to make a dramatic gesture to get our outstanding cars onto more car-buyers’ radar.

"All of our cars come with horizontally-opposed "Boxer" engines – just like a Porsche – mated to a symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. It means all our cars have a very low centre of gravity for exceptional poise and outstanding levels of traction. This remarkable engineering comes at a price that most two-wheel drive competitors find difficult to match. Along with our legendary reliability, maybe that is why our cars always fare so well in consumer surveys like J.D. Power."

To support the promotion, Subaru will be embarking on a heavyweight £1m national marketing campaign, comprising national television, high frequency national press, a comprehensive online presence and dedicated microsite (www.freefuel.subaru.co.uk from mid-July) and highly targeted direct marketing. Creative work has been developed by Miles Calcraft Briginshaw Duffy, online by Elvis and media planning and buying through Brilliant Media in Manchester.

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 26 June 2006 – Land Rover is to take part in the Goodwood Festival of Speed for the first time in the 4x4 manufacturer's 59 year history and is set to make a big impression on festival goers with a dramatic display of off-road action.

First up is the Land Rover G4 Challenge off-road circuit, which is situated in the main showground, featuring the Discovery 3, Range Rover Sport and a special guest vehicle (to be announced on the Sunday of the festival), all of which are available for passenger rides. The circuit is from the Copa Cabana special stage of the 2006 G4 Challenge in Rio de Janeiro, where the challenge set for competitors was to complete the course without putting a wheel on the sand of the world famous beach.

Next is a special Bowler Off-Road 'systems development' Range Rover Sport, which will be used in the 'Heroes of World Rallying' section of the famous Goodwood hill climb. This vehicle has been specially prepared for the action by the specialist motorsport team at Bowler Off-Road.

The Bowler Off-Road team will also be making its mark at the Festival, with the announcement of their all-new race car, the Bowler Nemesis. Inspired by Land Rover's Range Rover Sport, this vehicle has been designed and engineered exclusively by the Bowler Off-Road team at their Derbyshire base. Images and further information on the Bowler Nemesis and the limited edition Range Rover Sport HST will be available at the Bowler Off-Road stand.

Land Rover UK managing director, John Edwards, said: "With the Range Rover Sport now firmly in our stable, we have good reason to be at the Festival of Speed.

Between Land Rover on the off-road circuit, and Bowler on the hill climb, we will show that our vehicles have the breadth of capability to do just about anything."

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is open from Friday 7 July to Sunday 9 July 2006.

Toyota and Lexus have jointly won the first Gold Award for Green 4x4s from 4x4 & MPV Driver magazine. Announced today, the honour recognises advances in technology and design which have set Toyota and Lexus 4x4s ahead of the market in terms of all-round environmental innovation and performance.

The Green 4x4 awards were set up to honour the companies, cars and technologies that are changing 4x4s for ever – and for the better – by reducing emissions, improving fuel economy and introducing new environmental concepts.

Bob Murray, 4x4 & MPV Driver editor, said: "Manufacturers of 4x4s come no cleaner, greener or smarter than Toyota and Lexus, winners of our inaugural Green 4x4 Gold Award.

"The world’s most successful car maker has been consistently at the forefront of new environmental automotive technologies for decades, often using 4x4s to take that technology out of the laboratory and on to the road."

The Lexus RX 400h is singled out for praise as ‘a technological tour de force, as well as a pretty darned civilised SUV’. Six out of 10 British RX buyers now opt for the hybrid power 400h, which delivers incredible performance with emissions levels and fuel economy that are unheard of among non-diesel SUVs.

The new RAV4 T180 contributes further to Toyota’s success, exemplifying the clean and efficient modern compact 4x4. The T180’s 2.2-litre D-4D engine uses Toyota D-CAT technology to achieve exceptionally low levels of particulates and nitrogen oxides emissions, two of the most challenging elements in diesel exhaust gas. And as well already achieving emissions standards proposed for 2010 at a time when some companies are still struggling to meet current requirements, the 175bhp engine is the most powerful in its class.

The judges also took into account Toyota’s investment in developing hybrid fuel cell technology and putting it on the road in the FCHV-5, a special version of its US-market Highlander 4x4 that is capable of creating its own hydrogen fuel on board.

The full story of the Green 4x4 Awards is featured in the July issue of 4x4 & MPV Driver, on sale at all good newsagents from today. 4x4 & MPV Driver is the UK’s only magazine dedicated to the fastest growing areas of the car market.

Isuzu (UK) Limited has joined forces with Constitution Motors and Hammonds of Halesworth, to promote the multi-award winning trio of Rodeo Denver 3.0 Automatic, Denver Max 3.0 and the Denver Max LE 3.0 at the Royal Norfolk Show on 28 and 29 June.

Exhibiting for the first time at the Show, billed as the largest of its kind in the UK and attracting nearly 100,000 visitors, staff will be on hand to show off the latest models and best deals in town. These include the five-seat, four-door double cab Rodeo Denver automatic, priced at only £13,990 on-the-road (excl VAT).

The offer is limited to models in Silver only and makes the Rodeo the best-value one-tonner on the market.

Standard equipment on the 3.0 litre turbo diesel Rodeo Denver includes: alloy wheels, air-conditioning, leather-wrapped steering wheel, radio/CD player, electric windows, ABS with EBD and three-point seatbelts for all five occupants.

The Rodeo Denver has won praise for its car-like driving characteristics and the optional Prodrive Performance Pack is proving highly popular. This boosts power from 130 PS to 155 PS at 3,800 rpm with torque growing from 206.5 lb ft to a solid 258.1 lb ft at the same 2,000 rpm.

Meanwhile, the Rodeo continues to win accolades including Japan’s 2005 ‘Good Design Award’, ‘Best Double Cab Pickup’ from Used Car Buyer magazine and ‘Lifestyle Pickup Winner’ from 4x4 magazine. Other awards include one from The Caravan Club and another from What Van? magazine.

With more than 600 trade stands, displaying the latest in farm machinery, livestock and local produce, it’s no wonder more and more people are flocking to the area every year - there is something for all the family.

Come and see us on stand 462, Avenue 16, facing east.

o New Carens and facelifted Sorento unveiled
o Kia displays new cee’d concept
o Stand 8, South Hall

A whole host of bold new Kia models are being unveiled to the UK for the first time at the British International Motor Show at ExCel in London’s docklands on 18 July.

The range of new models which have never before been seen in the UK, include the stunning all-new Carens mid-range MPV, the new facelifted Sorento 4x4, and the stunning cee’d concept vehicle.

The rest of Kia’s exciting range will also be on show as the company gives show-goers a peek into its future and clearly illustrates its bold way forward.

The new Kia Carens is larger and more stylish than the out-going model. Smart and exciting, it has been designed especially with British and European drivers in mind and looks set to be one of the London show’s big stars. Available as a five or seven seater, Carens will re-work the terms space, convenience and versatility.

The new Kia Sedona MPV, which made its world premiere at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, will go on sale in the UK on 1 July. Like Carens, the Sedona has been redesigned from the ground up and has been created especially for European drivers. With seven individual seats, mounted in a 2+3+2 layout, all five middle and back row seats can be individually moved, reclined, folded or removed for maximum space and minimum fuss.

Also making its UK debut at ExCel is the cee’d concept car (pronounced ‘seed’), based on the forthcoming all-new C-segment model which goes into production at the new factory in Slovakia in December. The stunning new model marks the beginning of a whole new era in Kia's design ethos, and has a tough appearance, flowing lines, jewel-like detailing and a solid stance.

Among the other stars planned for Kia’s brilliant stand are the Kia Picanto city car, the all-new Rio spacious supermini, the roomy Cerato family model, the European-standard Magentis large saloon and the sophisticated Sportage mid-sized 4x4.

"Kia’s stand at this British Motor Show will be one of the best ever seen on UK soil," said Paul Williams, Managing Director, Kia Motors UK. "The broad and exciting range of cars we now have to show, coupled with the reveal of the new Carens and Sorento, make our stand a must-visit, for journalists and for the thousands of show-goers planning a visit to Docklands.

"We are very excited about this year’s event and I’m sure that we will have something for everyone on the Kia stand."

* The all-new Freelander 2 sets new standards for compact premium 4x4s
* Class-leading breadth of capability
o Agile, responsive and comfortable on-road
o Outstanding off-road
* Two new engines that deliver strong combinations of performance, refinement and fuel economy
o 3.2-litre i6 petrol (233 PS / 171 kW) – 30 per cent more powerful than the outgoing V6 with 10 per cent improvement in fuel economy
o 2.2-litre TD4 diesel (160 PS / 118 kW) – better fuel economy than its predecessor (37.7 mpg : 7.5 l/100 km) and 43 per cent more power
* Full-time intelligent 4x4 that helps optimise traction and fuel economy
* Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ – for easier off-road driving – heads a long list of advanced technologies, many new to the class
* Fresh and dynamic exterior design – chiselled, geometric and simple
* Versatile, comfortable, well-equipped and spacious cabin
* 38 per cent more boot space than the outgoing Freelander

OVERVIEW

The all-new Land Rover Freelander 2 redefines the compact premium 4x4 class. New from the ground up, Freelander 2 delivers outstanding on-road performance as well as the class-leading off-road ability of a true Land Rover. A dynamic design, purposeful stance, smart and spacious interior, and an abundance of advanced technologies complete the package.

"No other compact 4x4 has anything like its total breadth of capability," says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director. "The Freelander 2 sets new standards in the sector, combining the advantages of a premium car – such as polished ride, accomplished performance, attractive cabin and ease-of-use – with the attributes of a robust 4x4, including go-anywhere ability, toughness, panoramic seating, cabin versatility and spaciousness. We believe that no other compact 4x4 gets closer to blending these best-of-both-worlds abilities."

The original Freelander (launched in 1997) is seen by many as having created a whole new class of vehicle: the compact premium 4x4. It was the top-selling 4x4 in Europe for five years and remained the UK’s best-selling 4x4 from launch until the end of 2005. The all-new Freelander 2 is improved in every way: better performance, more economical, more refined, higher quality and substantially roomier. It is more capable both off-road and on-road, with transformed handling, ride and comfort.

Freelander 2 is Land Rover’s fourth all-new vehicle in just over four years, and follows the new Range Rover (2002), Discovery 3 (2004) and Range Rover Sport (2005). Their highly successful introductions contributed to record Land Rover sales worldwide in 2005. Technical highlights of the Freelander 2 include two brand-new engines: a 3.2-litre straight-six petrol and a 2.2-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel. Both feature advanced technologies to deliver outstanding combinations of performance and economy.

The 233 PS (171 kW) i6 petrol engine provides a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h) and 0-60 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds). Combined fuel economy is 25.2 mpg (11.2 litres/100 km). The engine is matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission, with Land Rover’s CommandShift™ offering manual sequential gear changes when required. There is also a driver-selectable sport mode, for livelier performance.

Straight-six engine configurations are ideal for delivering engine smoothness, and the very compact new unit in Freelander 2 is small enough to mount transversely, a first in the compact 4x4 sector and one of the vehicle’s many innovations. The benefits of transverse fitment include improved interior package and safety performance.

The diesel engine chosen for Freelander 2 is an all-new 2.2-litre four-cylinder. The 160 PS (118 kW) unit delivers peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb ft), with over 200 Nm (148 lb ft) of torque from 1000 rpm all the way to 4500 rpm. The engine is easy and responsive to drive, as well as highly refined and economical, with a combined average fuel consumption of 37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100 km). An optional catalysed Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF) is also available for even cleaner performance. Two transmissions are offered: a new six-speed manual gearbox and the same six-speed automatic used on the petrol engine (diesel auto available from spring 2007).

The interior package of Freelander 2 is a major improvement over the outgoing vehicle. Although only 50 mm longer, the Freelander 2 has more generous head, shoulder and legroom, in both the front and rear. Large glass areas emphasise the spacious feel and complement the elevated ‘command driving’ position – a Land Rover hallmark – and ‘stadium seating’, where rear passengers sit slightly higher than front occupants, for a clearer view of the world outside. Boot space is also among the best in class and 38 per cent larger than that of the outgoing Freelander (with rear seats up – 755 litres vs 546 litres).

The exterior and interior design of Freelander 2 is completely fresh, integrating the company’s unique design language with a form that is instantly recognisable as the latest Land Rover.

"We purposely kept strong cues from the original Freelander, such as the clamshell bonnet, stepped roof and the basic form," says Land Rover design director Geoff Upex. "But the overall look is new and much more contemporary. The design is chiselled, geometric and simple – it looks like it’s hewn from the solid. We have kept a close design relationship with the new Discovery 3 and Range Rover Sport, but interpreted the design language to suit the requirements of customers for a more compact 4x4."

The body is a five-door monocoque structure, with a high level of torsional rigidity which benefits refinement, comfort and handling on-road as well as ensuring the vehicle is fit for serious off-roading. The suspension is fully independent and uses the most modern stability control systems, including Roll Stability Control (RSC), a new and sophisticated technology that helps mitigate the risk of roll-over.

Freelander 2 is packed with new technologies to improve both on-road and off-road performance, many new to the class. Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ is standard on all but the entry-level model, to make off-roading easier. Other interesting technologies include a new full-time intelligent 4x4 system for superior traction and better on-road fuel economy, and the patented Gradient Release Control, which improves driver confidence and control when releasing the brakes on steep and slippery slopes.

Other features and options rare in this class include: keyless starter button, bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive front lighting, rain-sensing wipers and park distance control (front and rear). A two-part panoramic sunroof increases the cabin’s airiness: air-conditioning is standard on all models and a full colour touch-screen DVD satellite navigation system is also available. The choice of top-level audio systems includes DAB digital radio and 12-speaker Dolby™ Prologic IIx Surround Sound with fibre-optic interconnects. An auxiliary audio connection (for iPods and MP3 players) is standard on all vehicles.

Designed and engineered by Land Rover at Gaydon, near Warwick, Freelander 2 is built at the Halewood plant in Liverpool, where outstanding build quality has been acknowledged with a J.D. Power European Plant Quality Gold Award in 2005.

ALL-NEW FREELANDER 2 IN BRIEF

Exterior Design

* Fresh and more premium exterior, designed to reflect both on-road and off-road capabilities
* Long wheelbase and short overhangs help deliver purposeful 4x4 proportions
* Dynamic stance, chiselled lines and smooth, simple surfaces
* Distinctive Land Rover genes, including clamshell bonnet and stepped roof
* Watch-like detailing in the wrap-around headlamps and tail-lamps

Powertrain

* Two new engines, delivering excellent combinations of performance, refinement and fuel economy
o More powerful and more economical than the previous Freelander engines
o Extensively developed to meet Land Rover’s tough off-roading requirements
* Smooth, powerful and compact new 3.2-litre i6 petrol engine
o Maximum power 233 PS (171 kW); maximum torque 317 Nm
o 0-60 mph in 8.4 sec; 0-100 km/h in 8.9 sec
o Combined average fuel consumption 25.2 mpg (11.2 l/100 km) – 10% better than previous Freelander petrol engine
o Exceptionally compact straight six-cylinder configuration
o Transverse engine mounting improves cabin space and helps efficiency of safety systems
o Advanced technologies include Cam Profile Switching and Variable Valve Timing
* Responsive, refined and torquey 2.2-litre TD4 turbodiesel
o Maximum power 160 PS (118 kW); maximum torque 400 Nm
o 0-60 mph in 10.9 sec; 0-100 km/h in 11.7 sec – reduced by 2.3/2.7 sec compared with outgoing Freelander diesel
o Combined average fuel consumption 37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100 km)
o New, variable-nozzle turbocharger helps deliver excellent response, huge mid-range torque and flat power curve
o Latest common-rail injection system aids economy and refinement
* Both engines available with new six-speed automatic transmission
o Six-speed manual also available with the TD4 diesel
* CommandShift™ manual sequential gear changes and sport mode available on both petrol and diesel auto models

Driving Dynamics

* Class-leading breadth of capability – combining agile, predictable and refined on-road behaviour with outstanding off-road ability
* New, fully independent suspension system, with front and rear coil-sprung struts
* Responsive rack-and-pinion steering, reach- and rake-adjustable
* Supple suspension and torsional body stiffness contribute to the excellent on-road comfort
* Full-time intelligent 4x4 transmission optimises traction and economy, featuring new electronically-controlled centre coupling
* Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ system aids off-road driving – standard on all but entry models
* 210 mm ground clearance and wading depth of 500 mm
* Advanced stability and traction aids, including Electronic

Traction Control, Dynamic Stability Control and Hill Descent Control

* New Gradient Release Control system improves driver control on steep hills
* Large vented disc brakes with latest-generation four-channel anti-lock brakes
* Electronic Brakeforce Distribution, Emergency Brake
* Assist and Corner Brake Control
* Roll Stability Control system – the most sophisticated roll-over prevention technology ever fitted to a Land Rover

Body

* Five-door monocoque body – almost twice as stiff as some competitors
o Great strength and torsional rigidity for excellent vehicle refinement and safety
* Seven airbags
* Large areas of glass for excellent visibility, with optional panoramic sunroof
* Choice of headlamp technologies, including optional Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS) that swivels with the direction of travel

Interior Design and Features

* Premium cabin, designed to be comfortable, well equipped and spacious
* Elegant interior design, executed with high-quality materials
* Generous interior space with good head, shoulder and leg room
* Elevated ‘command view’ driving position, plus easy-to-reach main controls
* Rear ‘stadium seating’ allows passengers a better view
* Multi-way adjust front seats – electric power adjust and seat heating also available
* Asymmetric-split rear seat folds to provide a completely flat load area
* Large luggage capacity – 38 per cent more than previous Freelander (with rear seat raised)
* Wide choice of audio systems and premium equipment

EXTERIOR DESIGN

"Freelander 2 is a fresh and contemporary design, with its chiselled lines, chunky good looks and sporty energy. Though the genes of the highly successful original Freelander are still clearly recognisable, the new model looks more premium and more grown-up, without losing its sense of fun." Geoff Upex, design director.

Chiselled lines, smooth and simple surfaces and interlocking elements were three of the key principles that guided the Land Rover design team as they crafted the all-new Freelander 2. These combined well with the vehicle’s near-ideal proportions – especially the height, long wheelbase, and short front and rear overhangs – to create the purposeful, sporty stance that the designers wanted.

Upex and his team, including Earl Beckles (lead exterior designer) and Martin Buffery (lead interior designer), were also determined to develop a vehicle with clear family links to Land Rover’s successful new Discovery 3 and best-selling Range Rover Sport. From the Discovery, according to Geoff Upex, "we took the simplicity of the surfacing, the strong shapes, the bold and consistent graphics, and the strong rear D-post styling. Range Rover Sport inspired the flow of the wheel arches, a lot of the stance, and the dynamics of the waistline.

"But there are also clear visual references to the original Freelander. Its distinctive shape is widely recognised and popular, especially in Europe," says Upex. "So we took the best bits, the real signatures from that car, and enhanced them. These include the clamshell bonnet and the stepped roof."

However, these inspirations were subordinate to a clear vision of how a vehicle such as Freelander should look. While still definitively a Land Rover, it has always had – and needed to retain – a strong appeal to customers more used to conventional saloon cars.

"The design of Freelander 2 had to reflect its balance of capabilities – as a great road car and a great 4x4," says Geoff Upex. "This was absolutely at the top of our minds. It could not be too overt a 4x4, in the way that a Discovery is. It had to be tough – but not too tough. It had to reassure people trading up from premium cars. So this balance – tough 4x4 versus premium car – was crucial in the design language."

According to Upex, 4x4s typically look more geometric, more aggressive and harder-edged. Cars tend to be more organic – and friendlier – in form. So the Freelander 2 mixes strong geometric shapes and flowing, car-like softness.

The fast-angled windscreen, the raised roof and the tapering rear pillar all reflect the car’s dynamic, sporty on-road abilities, as does the smooth shoulder line. Also contributing significantly to the flow of the design are the body-coloured A- and D-pillars, while the black E-pillars at the rear give a graphic which resembles the ‘floating roof’ of Range Rover.

The body sides on Freelander 2 are sharp and chiselled. But in the plan view, the surfaces are smooth, sheer and one-directional. The surfacing is also taut and very defined, to give the vehicle a lean, muscled look.

The grille is a strong and confident design statement (with different versions for petrol and diesel models). The rear is also cleaner, significantly helped by relocating the external spare wheel of the original Freelander underneath the cargo area floor, and by the new one-piece tail-lamps.

"The whole design is simple, much less cluttered than before, more premium and more desirable. We wanted a minimal number of components that interlock to form a meaningful and attractive whole," says Geoff Upex. "The headlamps and tail-lamps, for instance, are watch-like in their detailing. The metallic side-vents help engine breathing, but also provide a strong family link with both Discovery 3 and Range Rover Sport."

As always with a Land Rover, functionality is a fundamental driver of the design. The narrow front A-posts help achieve excellent all-round visibility. The bonnet castellations help the driver place the vehicle more accurately on the road or track. The wheel-out stance and wide track help deliver agile handling and great grip. The short front and rear overhangs and high underbody are essential for go-anywhere off-road performance. The body-side protection guards against stone chips and helps keep the sills clean.

"We believe the end result is a design that is sculptured and sophisticated, dynamic yet refined, premium and tough," says Geoff Upex.

POWERTRAIN

"The all-new Freelander 2, appropriately, gets two exceptional new engines. The petrol i6 is one of the smoothest and most refined 4x4 engines in the world. Very compact and packed with technology, it delivers bags of torque across the rev range. For such a powerful engine, its fuel consumption and CO2 figures are also excellent. The new TD4 is one of the world’s most advanced and efficient diesel engines – easily the best small diesel we’ve ever installed in a Land Rover, with great response and outstanding refinement." Andrew Foster, chief programme engineer.

Refined New I6 Petrol Engine

The powerful and torquey 3.2-litre i6 petrol engine is brand new for 2006, and gives Freelander 2 on-road performance comparable to that of many compact saloons. The vehicle accelerates from 0-60 mph in 8.4 sec (0-100 km/h in 8.9 sec) and has a top speed of 124 mph (200 km/h). More relevant for everyday motoring, it also has impressive kick-down acceleration.

Maximum power is 233 PS (171 kW) at 6300 rpm, and maximum torque is 317 Nm (234 lb ft) at 3200 rpm. These figures are substantially higher than those offered by the outgoing Freelander’s V6 engine (177 PS/130 kW, 240 Nm). Performance is also much better than the outgoing vehicle’s, as is fuel economy – which is improved by 10 per cent on the combined average cycle.

The six-cylinder i6 engine is ingeniously designed to combine a straight configuration – intrinsically, the most refined and smoothest engine arrangement – with an exceptionally compact size. This allows the engine to be transversely mounted, which improves cabin packaging and gives extra space, in front of and behind the engine, designed to help optimise the efficiency of the vehicle’s safety systems.

The key to this compact new design is the unique and innovative Rear End Ancillary Drive (READ) system. Conventional engines drive camshafts and other engine ancillaries (including alternator, water pump and air conditioning compressor) from a series of chains and belts overhanging the front of the engine. The i6’s READ system takes drive to these items up the rear face of the engine – the side attached to the gearbox – with much less overhang. The result is an extremely short engine, just 600.5 mm long. This substantially increases engine bay space, allowing the i6 to be fitted crossways and the vehicle’s advanced crash structure to be configured around it.

The i6 engine has an aluminium block, head and bedplate and all are structurally optimised to balance low weight and stiffness. Even the camshaft cover is structural, allowing it to incorporate the camshaft bearing caps for further weight reduction.

There are twin overhead camshafts and 24 valves (four per cylinder) to provide optimal engine breathing. This is further improved by a patented Cam Profile Switching (CPS) system that features two completely different intake cam profiles machined onto the same camshaft. The engine management system decides which cam profile to use, depending on the engine’s running conditions and driver’s torque demands. One profile is ideal for low-speed/low-load driving; the other, which gives longer valve lift, is better for higher speeds and loads. An ingenious two-piece hydraulic valve tappet arrangement alters the cam profiles.

The i6 engine also features a continuously Variable Valve Timing (VVT) system, which constantly alters valve overlap to achieve optimum power, efficiency and emissions. The combination of CPS and VVT gives the new engine impressively broad power and torque bands, and improves both outright performance and general driveability.

In addition, the Variable Intake System – which alters both intake tract length and, more unusually, plenum volume – boosts low-end torque and high-end power, further enhancing the engine’s breathing capability. Eighty per cent of the vehicle’s maximum torque is available across the entire rev range, and 256 Nm (189 lb ft) is on tap all the way from 1400 rpm to 6400 rpm.

Aluminium pistons and forged steel con-rods operate a 7-bearing forged steel crankshaft with induction hardened bearing surfaces. The crankshaft timing ring and starter ring are incorporated into the flexplate that sits between the engine and automatic transmission for more compact packaging.

Power from the READ system is taken from a gear on the rear crankshaft web, which also drives the oil pump. This drives a mid-shaft gear that powers an idler-shaft carrying two different-sized gearwheels. The front gearwheel drives the alternator: the rear gear takes drive to the overhead camshafts through an inverted tooth chain, and also drives the power-steering pump, engine coolant pump and air-conditioning compressor via a polyvee belt.

The highly accurate fuel-injection system features four micro-nozzles per cylinder, each with a diameter of 0.29 mm. Capable of injecting a large volume of fuel when high performance is demanded – up to 250 cm3/min – they are also able to provide total precision when minimal performance is required, helping the i6 Freelander 2 achieve its combined fuel consumption of 25.2 mpg (11.2 l/100 km).

The base engine has been developed primarily by Land Rover’s Premier Automotive Group partner Volvo. Built at Bridgend, Wales – alongside the Land Rover / Range Rover V8 engine family – the i6 engine has been extensively developed for Land Rover’s demanding off-road requirements, including improved dust, mud and water protection and the tolerance of operation at more acute angles of tilt.

New TD4 Turbodiesel

The second engine for the Freelander 2 is an all-new 2.2-litre TD4 turbodiesel, which combines great torque and impressive refinement.

Maximum power for the new diesel engine is 160 PS (118 kW) up from 112 PS (82 kW) on the outgoing Freelander’s 2.0-litre diesel. Maximum torque is 400 Nm (295 lb ft) – up from 260 Nm (191 lb ft). Naturally, performance is improved substantially. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes 10.9 sec in manual guise, substantially reduced from 13.2 sec for the previous Freelander diesel (0-100 km/h now 11.7 sec, from 14.4 sec). The combined average fuel consumption is 37.7 mpg (7.5 l/100 km), better than the outgoing Freelander diesel despite a 43 per cent increase in power.

The TD4’s advanced technologies include variable in-cylinder swirl, the latest ‘generation 3’ common-rail fuel injection, a new Garrett variable-nozzle turbocharger, a double-walled cylinder block and sump-mounted balance shafts. The result is impressive torque spread, fuel economy, performance and refinement. The engine exceeds the demanding EU4 emissions requirements, and a maintenance-free catalysed Diesel Particulate Filter (cDPF) is also available for even cleaner performance (all diesel engine data quoted is without the optional cDPF fitted).

The peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb ft) occurs at a very usable 2000 rpm. The power curve is flat, delivering 80 per cent of peak power across more than half the rev range. A hefty 200 Nm (148 lb ft) of torque is available from 1000 rpm to 4500 rpm. As a result, the Freelander 2 TD4 is responsive, rewarding and easy to drive.

In automatic versions of the Freelander 2 TD4, hard acceleration delivers extra performance for short periods thanks to Transient Overboosting, where turbo pressure is increased. The new GT17B Honeywell Garrett Variable Nozzle Turbine (VNT) turbo gives great low-speed response, huge mid-range torque and plentiful upper-end power. Its small turbine wheel is light, further reducing turbo lag, which is virtually unnoticeable.

The engine combustion is very efficient, with piezoelectric injectors, high fuel pressures and variable swirl technology all reducing combustion noise and in-cylinder pressure. Piezoelectric injectors provide exact control of the fuel delivery, while the ‘generation 3’ common-rail injection system is capable of injection pressures of 1800 bar (over 26,000 psi), about 30 per cent higher than ‘generation 2’ systems. Common-rail systems can supply a high volume of fuel at peak load conditions, one reason why common-rail engines offer much better performance – as well as better economy – than older diesel engines.

The new cylinder head design optimises swirl across the entire engine range. In many diesel engines, this is a compromise between achieving acceptable swirl at low speed and avoiding excessive swirl at high gas flow rates. On the TD4, an innovative intake port deactivation system solves this problem, improving diesel swirl – and combustion efficiency – at both low and high revs.

Each cylinder has two intake ports. The low-speed tract applies air at an acute angle to create swirl at low engine loads. Once higher gas flows are demanded, a second tract opens, providing extra air – but without increasing swirl.

The cylinder block is manufactured from cast iron, and is double walled. This not only strengthens the block but significantly reduces radiating noise, a little like double glazing. The head is aluminium alloy while the engine cover is made from lightweight polypropylene, housing foam to absorb specific noise frequencies. It is simple but highly effective, reducing engine noise by up to a half.

The crankshaft is made from fillet rolled cast steel and is supported on five main bearings. A dual-mass flywheel absorbs engine vibrations. At the other end of the crankshaft, a torsional vibration damper isolates the crank from the valve-train and ancillary drives. To aid engine refinement further, the TD4 uses two counter-rotating balancing shafts, housed in the sump. These shafts, rotating at twice crank-speed, counter the natural four-cylinder engine vibrations. They help deliver a remarkably smooth and refined diesel engine.

The engine – which makes its world debut in 2006 – is a result of the co-operative agreement between the Ford Motor Company and PSA Peugeot Citroën which also produced the acclaimed TDV6 fitted to Discovery 3 and Range Rover Sport. As with the i6 petrol engine, the TD4 engine has been specially developed to meet Land Rover’s unique requirements for wading and extreme off-road angles, as well as for class-leading dust and mud protection.

New Six-Speed Automatic and Manual Transmissions

Both Freelander 2 engines are available with a sophisticated six-speed automatic transmission, while a six-speed manual is also available for the TD4 (diesel auto models become available from spring 2007).

They are both new transmissions specially developed for Land Rover’s challenging blend of on-road and off-road driving, and deliver power to Freelander 2’s unique full-time intelligent 4x4 driveline.

The Aisin Warner AWF21 six-speed automatic transmission is a light, compact unit that features a unique remote breather, deliberately routed above Land Rover’s wade line (500 mm water depth). Seamless shift quality is ensured by a new fully integrated electronic Transmission Control Module. The module uses different gearchange maps, depending on whether the transmission is in full auto, sport or manual CommandShift mode, and when the vehicle is using one of the special Terrain Response programmes.

* In sport mode, the auto transmission is programmed to hold low gears longer and to shift down more readily, to assist acceleration
* CommandShift allows manual sequential gearchanging
* When Terrain Response special programmes are engaged, different mappings are applicable, depending on the mode chosen. The Transmission Control Module also manages torque converter lock-up, which has different requirements depending on the selected Terrain Response mode

The six-speed manual gearbox, available only with the TD4 diesel, is a Getrag M66 unit, specially adapted for Land Rover use. It has a four-shaft design, and gear selection by twin cables, to ensure short, positive changes. The dual-mass flywheel carries a single-plate 250 mm (9.84 inch) hydraulically actuated clutch. The system is fully self-adjusting, to maintain constant pedal loads through the vehicle’s life.

DRIVING DYNAMICS

"The all-new Freelander 2 has been engineered to inspire driver confidence and passenger comfort over a wide variety of conditions and surfaces, from sporty on-road driving to off-road mud-plugging. Our goal was to create a driving experience that felt just as good to someone trading up from a conventional saloon as it did to an experienced 4x4 specialist." Mike Cross, chief engineer, vehicle integrity.

The Land Rover engineers’ objectives for the driving dynamics of Freelander 2 were to combine on-road behaviour that is agile, predictable and refined, with class-leading off-road ability. Their comprehensive approach started with the design of the base suspension system, and was supplemented by innovative technologies such as an intelligent 4x4 system, Land Rover’s patented Terrain Response, and sophisticated traction and stability systems. Key contributors to achieving excellent on-road performance were the new, fully independent suspension system – coil-sprung struts front and rear – and an exceptionally stiff body using front and rear sub-frames. Front and rear anti-roll bars provide excellent anti-roll control.

The responsive rack-and-pinion steering is direct and fluid, with just 2.6 turns lock-to-lock. Rigidly mounted to the front sub-frame to improve lateral stiffness, the steering is adjustable for reach and rake.

"The Freelander 2 is a revelation on-road," says Land Rover’s chief engineer, vehicle integrity, Mike Cross. "Some sporty 4x4s are more firmly sprung, but where Freelander 2 really scores is in its mix of agility, responsiveness and ride comfort. It is never harsh, but is always a rewarding and predictable vehicle to drive hard."

On-road ride comfort has been a key consideration, and Freelander 2 surpasses many compact premium saloons – let alone rival 4x4s – due to its supple long-travel suspension, its excellent torsional body stiffness, its isolated (rubber-mounted) front and rear sub-frames, and its large-diameter gas damper struts.

Off-road it is a class-leader. Its capability starts with 210 mm (minimum) of ground clearance to overcome rocky, sandy, rutted or muddy terrain. This also helps

Freelander 2 to wade through water up to 500 mm deep – better than most rivals. Approach and departure angles are also excellent.

Full-Time Intelligent 4x4 System

An innovative full-time intelligent 4x4 transmission is fundamental to delivering Freelander 2’s class-leading breadth of capability. Its front-rear torque split varies continuously to suit dynamic conditions. Only a small amount of torque is fed to the rear wheels under normal conditions, such as on a straight tarmac road, but in tough off-road situations, almost all the engine torque can be fed to the rear wheels, if required. This is an ideal arrangement that always offers maximum grip in difficult conditions, yet minimises rear drive – and therefore rotational losses and, in turn, fuel consumption – when not required.

"The torque balance adapts continuously," says chief programme engineer Andrew Foster. "So, for example, if you encounter mud or snow on the road, torque distribution between front and rear can be adjusted, to give you optimal traction and primary safety at all times."

The intelligent 4x4 system has been developed in conjunction with Haldex, whose acclaimed centre-coupling technology continuously alters the front-rear torque split, normally through a hydraulically operated multi-plate wet clutch. However, Land Rover wanted an electronically controlled centre coupling – linking the propshaft to the rear differential – that could pre-engage at rest to reduce wheelspin from standing starts, engage quickly when traction loss was detected and disengage quickly without compromising stability control systems. The system also had to transmit the necessary torque to achieve Freelander 2’s off-road traction demands.

The result is used exclusively on Freelander 2, and proactively engages full-time 4x4 rapidly and completely. A new high-pressure pre-charge pump charges the hydraulic system as soon as the engine is started, allowing for full-time 4x4 from rest. It also reduces the time taken to achieve full torque once wheel-slip has been detected – within 15 degrees of wheel-slip rotation (compared with over 60 degrees of wheel-slip rotation with more conventional units).

The Freelander 2’s Haldex unit is designed to allow up to 1500 Nm of torque transmission. An accumulator also speeds up the unit’s response. Full torque transmission can be achieved in just 150 milliseconds. In effect, the new Haldex coupling gives the proactive engagement benefits of full-time 4x4 and the efficiency and fuel economy of an on-demand system. Representing the best of both worlds, it is ideal for a compact 4x4 such as Freelander 2.

Terrain Response Enhances Go-Anywhere Ability

Terrain Response is one of the core Land Rover technologies that gives the Freelander 2 its outstanding breadth of capability. Standard on all but the entry model, it adapts the responses of the vehicle’s engine, gearbox, centre coupling and chassis systems to match the demands of the terrain. It optimises driveability and comfort, as well as maximising traction.

On the Freelander 2, there are four Terrain Response settings which the driver can choose via a rotary control:

* General Driving – provides a broad span of ability suitable for most on-road driving and easier off-road conditions
* Grass/Gravel/Snow – for slippery conditions, on-road or off-road
* Mud and Ruts
* Sand

"Each of the settings optimises Freelander 2’s suite of electronic and mechanical controls to suit the chosen terrain," says Andrew Foster. "It’s like having an off-road expert to assist."

Terrain Response also controls the following range of stability and traction aids:

* Dynamic Stability Control (DSC): is designed to help stop torque to a wheel after loss of traction, but in some off-road situations torque feed is still desirable, even when traction is being lost. Terrain Response automatically adjusts the DSC so that appropriate torque is maintained
* Electronic Traction Control and Anti-lock Brakes: these slip and braking control systems are all adjusted and tuned by Terrain Response to offer optimum grip, braking power and safety on the chosen terrain
* Hill Descent Control (HDC): the latest generation of the award-winning Land Rover technology that automatically restricts speed downhill, using the anti-lock brakes, and improves driver control on slippery descents. HDC is automatically engaged on appropriate Terrain Response programmes. Downhill speed rates vary according to which surface is selected

Terrain Response also changes the setting of the electronic centre coupling, to optimise 4x4 drive in tough conditions. It works continuously, and made its production debut in the Land Rover Discovery 3 in 2004.

Large and Powerful Brakes

The Freelander 2 has large vented discs front and rear, providing stopping power comparable to that of a good compact sports saloon. The large front discs – 316 mm on the petrol model, 300 mm on the diesel – are ‘reverse vented’, so they draw cool air into the disc over the central bell, which is then vented out from the rim of the disc. This approach improves thermal stability under severe braking. Rear brake discs are also substantial – 302 mm in diameter, for both diesel and petrol. The handbrake is a drum-in-disc device featuring two shoes per wheel. This achieves superior hill-hold performance compared with conventional disc-only systems.

The electronic modulator at the heart of the stability control systems on

Freelander 2 constantly monitors and, if necessary, adjusts both braking and engine traction to ensure the driver maintains control of each wheel. As well as reducing brake pressure, as in a conventional anti-lock (ABS) braking system, the modulator is designed to help generate positive hydraulic pressure to increase braking force in an emergency.

In addition to the latest-generation four-channel anti-lock brakes, the modulator also controls Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), which balances the distribution of braking force between front and rear, Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), which boosts pedal pressure when full braking is required, and Corner Brake Control (CBC), which enhances rear-end stability when braking in corners. It also helps to control the Hill Descent Control, Electronic Traction Control and Dynamic Stability Control systems.

Roll Stability Control

Roll Stability Control is the most sophisticated roll-over prevention technology ever fitted to a Land Rover. Gyroscopic sensing allows this system – linked to the electronic modulator – to compare the rate of change of body roll angle with the steered course. If necessary, incremental brake force is applied at the outer wheels, widening the turn radius to help prevent the roll.

Gradient Release Control

Another innovation which makes its debut on Freelander 2 is Land Rover’s patented Gradient Release Control system. Linked to the Hill Descent Control, this system ensures that, when releasing the brakes on extremely steep hills, brake-line pressure is released progressively, helping to maintain full driver control.

Wheels and Tyres

Freelander 2 is available with a wide variety of wheels and tyres, ranging from

16-inch to 19-inch diameter. All are specifically tuned to help deliver Land Rover’s class-leading breadth of capability.

The wheels are all low-pressure die-cast aluminium, and rim width is wider than normal. All tyres are all-terrain rated, so they perform well both on-road and off. All run at 32 psi (2.2 bar), irrespective of size, load or speed, which simplifies life for the customer. The smallest tyre offered – on the diesel only – is a chunky 215/75R16 tyre, while the biggest – aimed at those who want sports saloon levels of responsiveness on-road – is a 235/55R19 (accessory fit only).

Towing Capability

Freelander 2’s powerful engines, strong body and 4x4 transmission make it an ideal tow vehicle. The petrol automatic and diesel manual models are able to tow a 2000 kg braked trailer – which is more than the vehicle’s kerb weight – making them suitable for most single horseboxes, medium-sized caravans and many boats. The diesel automatic can tow up to 1750 kg.

BODY

"Freelander 2’s body is almost twice as stiff as some competitors’. This helps its on-road handling and refinement, its off-road toughness, and its all-round safety." Andrew Foster, chief programme engineer.

With over 28,000 Nm/degree of static stiffness, the Freelander 2 has one of the stiffest bodies of any car; it is almost twice as stiff as some competitors. Excellent stiffness provides the necessary basis for great ride and handling, because there is minimal flex during hard cornering or on rough roads. It also helps deliver excellent vehicle refinement and safety.

Freelander 2 uses a monocoque construction. Ultra-high-strength steel is used more extensively than in any previous Land Rover, in the door beams and for various strengthening reinforcements. DP600 dual-phase steel – which requires special pressing because of its strength – is used for the A-posts, lower sills, cantrails, front side members and dash to help provide a first-class, weight-efficient safety cell.

Many of the bolt-on components fitted during final assembly also help improve structural integrity. A fully integrated front-end structure not only carries the cooling pack and front bumper, but also substantially boosts the overall body stiffness. Even the bonnet-locking platform has been designed to help boost structural integrity, ensuring good load transfer from one front crash rail to the other.

A double bulkhead in the engine bay improves powertrain isolation and provides a clean area for components such as the ABS modulator, brake servo and wiper system.

Freelander 2 is marginally longer – by 50 mm – than the outgoing Freelander. Width is increased by 109 mm, and height is increased by 32 mm.

Safety

The Freelander 2’s long list of primary safety features – not least its responsive handling, strong brakes and 4x4 system – helps the driver avoid hazards. The high ‘command view’ seating position provides visibility over traffic and a clearer view on rain-lashed roads.

Secondary safety starts with the strong monocoque body and its inner ‘safety cell’. Front and rear crumple zones are designed to help absorb as much energy as possible during an impact. Side-impact protection is further assisted by the ultra-high-strength steel door beams, the strong and deep door sills (bigger on a 4x4 than on a conventional car) and the raised seat position. Other key features include strong facia cross-rails, which help minimise the risk of the A-pillars spreading during an impact, and the new Roll Stability Control system.

Front seat belts have pre-tensioners, and all Freelander 2 models feature seven airbags. The driver and passenger front airbags are designed to help provide head and chest protection and the front side airbags to protect against side impacts. Full-length curtain airbags in the roof side structure are designed to help protect against head injury and roll-over ejection for front and rear occupants. An inflatable knee bolster helps protect the driver against leg injury from the steering column.

Exterior Protection

Freelander 2 uses 100 per cent double-sided zinc-coated steel panels, as part of the most sophisticated anti-corrosion and paint treatment ever used on a Land Rover. An unlimited-mileage, three-year paint-surface warranty and six-year anti-corrosion warranty are provided with the vehicle.

As a true 4x4, Freelander 2 is designed to be able to brush off knocks and scuffs. Vulnerable areas of the car, including the sills and lower doors, are coated in a tough thermoplastic cladding. The cooling pack is protected by a strong thermoplastic undertray, while a structural steel undertray protects the engine. Bumpers are made from high-pressure injection-moulded mineral-reinforced polypropylene. They have excellent stability in very hot or cold conditions, and good scratch and impact resistance.

Jewel-Like and Effective Lamps

The wrap-around headlamps of Freelander 2 are handsome and rugged, and offer a choice of different technologies.

The standard halogen lamps have impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses, and offer a lifetime resistance to scratching (invaluable when off-roading). The lens is bonded to the lamp body to guarantee a watertight seal. The headlamp units have a

Gore-Tex™ membrane, which allows ventilation without letting in water, to help avoid condensation when wading. H7 halogen bulbs are also available, giving a light output closer to natural daylight.

Freelander 2 is also available with High Intensity Discharge (HID) projector lamps, creating crisp blue-white spectrum light. The bulbs are filled with a mixture of noble gases (including xenon). HID lights produce 200 per cent more light than a halogen unit while consuming only half as much electrical power. They also last up to 10 times longer. The HID system includes headlamp powerwash and automatic headlamp levelling, to ensure the optimum light pattern irrespective of vehicle load.

Optional Adaptive Front Lighting (AFS) is designed around the xenon units. The lamps swivel with the direction of travel, to help improve the driver’s view of the road ahead.

Rear lamp units are chunky one-piece clusters, incorporating tail-lamps, brake lights, indicators and reversing lights. As with the headlamps, the design is jewel-like, an impression heightened by the high-gloss polymethyl methacrylate lenses, which also offer excellent scratch resistance.

Large Glass Areas

The generous areas of glass on Freelander 2 offer excellent all-round visibility. Front and side windows are wide and deep. An optional two-part panoramic sunroof increases the bright and airy feel of Freelander 2’s cabin. The front section lifts and slides back over the second-row glass roof panel.

Large door mirrors (powerfold available) further improve the field of view. The front screen is available electrically heated, with rain-sensing wipers that work via infra-red technology, and heated washer jets.

INTERIOR DESIGN AND FEATURES

"The Freelander 2’s cabin feels like that of a premium saloon car – it’s comfortable, attractive, well equipped and spacious." Geoff Upex, design director.

The interior of Freelander 2 is designed to be more elegant and simply structured than that of the outgoing Freelander, a decision made early on by Geoff Upex and lead interior designer Martin Buffery, who describe it as "strong but not intimidating". Yet the facia still incorporates clear elements of the iconic architectural vertical and horizontal lines that characterise the Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and Discovery 3.

"The whole interior has moved significantly upmarket," comments Geoff Upex. "Quality and craftsmanship are improved, with higher specification materials used throughout the cabin."

The upper part of the facia has a soft-touch finish to give a premium appearance and pleasant feel. Switch gear is purposeful and moves with precision. Regularly used controls, such as facia vents and major switchgear, are within easy reach and have a tactile finish. Upholstery and tufted carpets are high quality, while metallic and wood-effect finishes add further premium touches.

The instrumentation is clear and well displayed. The circular analogue gauges are framed with metallic bezels and are neatly grouped directly in front of the driver.

Spacious Interior

The elevated driving position in Freelander 2 – called ‘command view’ by Land Rover – improves visibility and helps the driver feel in control. It gives a much better vantage point than conventional saloon cars and even many other compact 4x4s (68 mm higher than one major competitor, for example).

‘Stadium seating’ places the rear seat passengers slightly higher than their front seat counterparts, so they too can enjoy the view. Visibility for all occupants is helped by the narrow front A-pillars, deep front and rear screens, and large side windows.

Although only 50 mm longer than the outgoing model, the all-new Freelander 2 effectively moves up a class in interior packaging compared with its predecessor.

"There is a real sense of space in Freelander 2," says Geoff Upex. "You can stretch out, relax, and it makes the whole ambience so much more enjoyable."

The vehicle’s height and tall doors improve entry and egress compared with normal cars. The ‘clean sill’ system also helps keep mud and general road grime off occupants’ clothes.

Comfortable Seats

Freelander 2’s seats offer good under-thigh and back support, plus strong side bolsters to give excellent lateral support. The front seat frames are similar to those of Range Rover Sport – big car seats for a cabin that looks as though it belongs in a big car. The upright seating provides a comfortable driving position and increases usable legroom.

A variety of seat fabrics and colourways are available, including leather on the top-of-the-range models.

Six-way adjustment is standard on all driver seats, including height adjustment to take advantage of the generous roofspace. The front passenger seat has four-way adjust. Electric power adjustment and armrests are also available on driver and front passenger leather seats, with the option of a three-position memory on the driver’s seat. Two-stage seat heating is available on certain models to provide reliable and rapid seat warming in cold environments.

The rear seat is wide enough to accommodate three standard adults, and includes a central armrest on leather versions. An asymmetrically split design, it folds forward to offer a completely flat floor area.

Lots of Luggage and Stowage Space

The capacious boot provides plenty of space for luggage or sports equipment, from bicycles to golf clubs. A neat touch is the reversible load floor cover with carpet on one side and a water-resistant surface on the other.

Total luggage volume is 1670 litres with the rear seats folded forward and 755 litres when raised (27 and 38 per cent respectively better than the outgoing Freelander). The space was designed from the outset to be as versatile as possible. For example, Land Rover even checked that Roly (one of the team’s fully grown Labradors, digitised for just this purpose) could travel in comfort. The high load-space floor avoids the need to bend down to lower items into the boot.

Within the cabin, the centre console includes cup-holders that can secure a wide variety of drink cans and cups. There is stowage space galore, including a large hopper-style glove-box and generous front and rear door bins with 1-litre bottle-holders. On selected models, the front seats have handy ‘kangaroo pockets’ on the front in addition to map pockets on the back.

Sound Systems

The sound systems offered for Freelander 2 are headed by a top-level version that features Dolby™ Prologic IIx surround sound, incorporating a 12x40 W amplifier. It is delivered through 12 speakers, including a sub-woofer, and the system incorporates a six-disc in-dash CD changer. It is also MP3 format compatible.

One rung down – but still highly impressive – is a system that includes an 8x40 W power output and eight speakers plus sub-woofer. Volume control is automatic, and changes with the car’s speed.

Rear seat headphone sockets are available, allowing rear seat passengers to listen to a different audio source from that of the front seat occupants.

An auxiliary audio input socket for the connection of an MP3 player, iPod, or other source is fitted as standard in the centre console. DAB digital radio is available as an option in selected markets.

Premium Equipment

Freelander 2 is available with a wide array of premium-car equipment, as standard or as options. This includes:

* Keyless starter button – standard throughout the range
* High-definition colour touch-screen DVD satellite navigation
* Bi-xenon Adaptive Front Lighting
* Auto headlights and rain-sensing wipers
* Cruise control
* Park Distance Control at the front and rear
* Bluetooth hands-free telephone system to integrate phone control and display with the car
* 12-speaker Alpine/Dolby™ Prologic IIx sound system
* DAB digital radio
* Dual-zone ATC air-conditioning, with pollen filter and humidity sensor
* Panoramic top-sliding sunroof
* Lazy-open and Lazy-locking functionality
* One-shot windows and sunroof
* ‘Approach lighting’ operated by the key fob

All photographs and engineering data in this press pack are from pre-production prototype work.

Kensington, London, 22 June 2006 – Women's tennis superstar and Land Rover driver, Maria Sharapova, 19, was in London today for a pre-Wimbledon Sony Ericsson Women's Tennis Association (SEWTA) party in Kensington, where she gave party guests and on-lookers a sneak preview of the all-new Land Rover Freelander 2.

Miss Sharapova is an official Land Rover ambassador in North America, where she promotes the vehicles, and she currently uses her Range Rover at her home in the USA.

Speaking at the event, Miss Sharapova said: "I drive a Land Rover at my home in the USA. Since I was 15 and first saw Land Rovers in the US I have admired their unique design and British-ness. I currently have Range Rovers, but am a big fan of the new Freelander 2. I love the fact I can use my i-Pod straight through its sound system, and I can get my coach, my dad, my agent and all my equipment in the car too."

The SEWTA party was held at Kensington Roof Gardens in London, and was hosted by the owner, Sir Richard Branson.

The all-new Freelander 2 will appear at the British International Motor Show at the Excel exhibition centre in London's Docklands from 18 July 2006.

Note to editors:
Land Rover Freelander 2 product highlights:

* Fresh and dynamic exterior design – chiselled, geometric and simple
* Two new engines that deliver strong combinations of performance, refinement and fuel economy
o 2.2-litre TD4 diesel (160 PS / 118 kW) – better fuel economy than its predecessor (37.7 mpg : 7.5 l/100 km) and 43 per cent more power
o 3.2-litre i6 petrol (233 PS / 171 kW) – 30 per cent more powerful than the outgoing V6 with 10 per cent improvement in fuel economy
* Full-time intelligent 4x4 that helps optimise traction and fuel economy
* Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response™ system – for easier off-road driving
* Designed and engineered by Land Rover at Gaydon, near Warwick, the Freelander 2 is built at the Halewood plant in Liverpool, where outstanding build quality has been acknowledged with a J.D. Power European Plant Quality Gold Award in 2005.

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 21 June 2006 – The Land Rover Discovery 3 has scooped an Auto Express New Car Honour – in the 4x4 Off-Roader category – for the second year running, beating off tougher competition than ever.

To claim the 2006 New Car Honour, the Discovery 3 defeated stiff opposition from the Audi Q7 and Volvo XC90. With a highly acclaimed TDV6 2.7 litre diesel engine, spacious seven-seat layout and plentiful storage, the Discovery 3 is an agile and practical offering on-road whilst off-road technology such as Terrain Response™, Hill Descent Control and Electronic Traction Control makes it unbeatable off-road too.

Auto Express editor-in-chief, David Johns commented: "Whether towing, mountain climbing, family carrying or simply taking the sting out of the daily commute, Land Rover’s Discovery never fails to impress us. Champion for the second year in a row, the big Brit has an unmatched range of abilities that sets it apart from every other car in the class."

John Edwards, managing director, Land Rover UK added: "It's fantastic that the Discovery 3 has proved yet again its versatility and staying-power in an increasingly competitive sector, with this, its 77th award off experts from around the world."

For further information on the Discovery 3 or to arrange a test drive, log onto www.landrover.co.uk to locate your local Land Rover dealership.

Cooper Tires has expanded its acclaimed Discoverer off-road family of tyres with the addition of the ‘Discoverer ATR’.

Designed exclusively for use on 4x4s, light trucks and SUVs, the new Discoverer ATR delivers outstanding traction and versatility thanks to a radically new tread pattern, construction and compound.

As Cooper’s hardest-working all-terrain tyre, the Discoverer ATR arrives with the promise of uncompromising performance regardless of the surface.

The rugged five-rib tread pattern extends over the shoulders to enhance off-road traction. Combined with wide and deep saw tooth circumferential grooves, and lateral slots, the Discoverer ATR provides a solid all-terrain performance advantage and enhanced all-weather traction.

Design aside, the ATR, also features a newly formulated compound to deliver a quiet ride and exceptional tarmac handling capabilities.

Overall, the new Cooper offering promises exceptional wear and durability, and, when you add raised white-outline sidewall lettering (in most sizes), you’ve got an all-season design that covers all the bases.

The R and S speed rated all-terrain tyre is available in popular 14-, 15-, 16-, and 17-inch sizes, and one of the industry’s only 20-inch outline white letter wheel diameter size. The new ATR will boast extensive size coverage – more than 50 – that will include many new fitments for 4x4s and SUVs on the market today.

The Discoverer ATR has been designed using Cooper’s advanced VT2ech computer aided modelling technology.

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Land Rover is inviting photographers to go ‘Wild’ with its sponsorship of the 2006 international Travel Photographer of the Year (TPOTY) competition. Entrants need to catch the judges’ eye with a portfolio of four ‘wild’ travel images that encapsulate the excitement and adventure of wildlife, dramatic landscapes or climates or extreme sports.

This is the third year that the UK’s leading 4x4 manufacturer has supported the competition, which is open to amateur and professional photographers alike and which regularly attracts over 10,000 images from photographers in more than 40 countries. TPOTY features four portfolio categories and one single image competition, and there is a special category for the under-17s. Each year Land Rover has sponsored a TPOTY category that reflects the qualities of adventure and excellence that are synonymous with Land Rover itself.

The photographer who successfully goes ‘Wild’ will win an adventure for two to explore the wildlife and citylife of Brazil, organised by Audley Travel, courtesy of Land Rover. In addition, they’ll be able to edit the images they take on their prize trip with Adobe’s Photoshop CS2 software, and share those images with the world via a custom-built website from Iridius.

TPOTY 2006 boasts a total prize package worth over £50,000, with other category prizes including trips to India, The Bahamas, Thailand, Sri Lanka and Mozambique, plus professional-level photographic equipment from Adobe, Fujifilm, Hasselblad, Hewlett Packard and Mamiya.

The second-placed entrant in the ‘Wild’ category will win a Wacom Intuos3 A5 Wide pen tablet and an HP Photosmart Pro B9180 printer, while the Highly Commended entrant will receive a Lee Filters Starter Kit and Fujifilm Multijet Inkjet Paper and the Commended entrant will win a copy of the new TPOTY book, Journey Two, in hardback, plus Fujifilm Multijet Inkjet Paper.

In 2005 Land Rover backed the TPOTY ‘Go Beyond’ category. That category was won by Indian-born amateur photographer Mani Puthuran, a radiologist working at Hull Royal Infirmary. His stunning images can be seen on www.tpoty.com and as part of the TPOTY exhibition at the British Airways London Eye during July and August.

Entries for TPOTY 2006 are now open, and close on September 9, 2006. Full information and entry forms are available from www.tpoty.com or by sending a stamped addressed envelope to 23A The Business Centre, Earl Soham, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 7SA.

The introduction of two new Suzuki SX4 derivatives this month completes the line-up of a 5-door hatchback range that blends elements of both sporty compacts and lightweight SUVs to create a distinctive compact car alternative.

The first, the SX4 DDiS, is powered by Fiat’s acclaimed 120PS 1.9 litre diesel engine which is characterised by punchy performance and excellent flexibility. The intercooled and turbocharged unit’s peak torque of 280Nm is delivered at just 2,000rpm, and output is fully exploited by a new 6-speed manual transmission to give fuel consumption of 44.8 mpg (Combined), while still turning in a 0 to 62 mph figure of 10.6 seconds. Emissions are similarly low, helped by a standard diesel particulate filter.

The second model, the SX4 1.6 GLX 4GRIP, introduces Suzuki’s all-new i-AWD (intelligent-All Wheel Drive) technology in combination with the 107PS 1.6 litre VVT (variable valve timing) petrol engine. This latest SX4 can stretch a gallon of fuel over 39.8 miles (Combined), while 0 to 62 mph is dispatched in 11.5 seconds.

i-AWD is a selectable 4x4 system, offering three alternative modes. In 4WD-Auto, the SX4 4GRIP operates as a front-wheel drive vehicle for much of the time, but as soon as there is pronounced front wheel slip, torque is also delivered to the rear for greater stability. 4WD-Lock mode allows full traction up to around 40 mph, before automatically switching over to the 4WD-Auto mode for smooth cruising. The third option, 2WD mode, enables fuel economy to be maximised.