4x4 uk would like to wish all site visitors and club members a very merry and Happy New Year and we look forward to seeing you all very soon in the new year at one of our events

The "Dakar 2007", that most classic of all rallies with its thrilling succession of stages and special trials, was presented today in Paris. It will start from Lisbon on 6th January and close on the 21st in the Senegal capital after covering 8,696 kilometres, 5,100 of them in the form of timed specials. It will cross Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Mauritania, Mali and Senegal. An extraordinary adventure that will see Fiat in the thick of it with two Panda Cross's driven by Miki Biasion, teamed with Tiziano Siviero, and by one of the Fiat squad's official drivers.

Entered in the T2 category, the closest to production vehicles, the two Panda Cross's are fitted with a 1.3 Multijet turbodiesel combined with a six-speed manual gearbox that delivers about 105 bhp at 4500 rpm and has a peak torque of 17 kgm at 2500 rpm. Apart from their small dimensions, the two cars stand out for their automatically selectable all-wheel drive with viscous joint and locking differential, the system that provides more grip on the terrain thanks to the optimal split of motive force to the wheels.

The Fiat Panda Cross is proving to be an extraordinary "explorer", completely at ease on rough, gruelling terrain. Credit for this also goes to the tried and tested, specifically set suspension layout: in front McPherson independent wheels, at the rear independent wheels with longitudinal tie rods. Not to mention the shock absorbers, adjustable 4 ways at the front and 3 at the rear.

The two cars competing in the Dakar 2007 have been fitted out specifically for this rally: so room has been found inside for accessories like the aluminium platforms to get the vehicle out of sand, two shovels, three spare wheels, water reserves for the crew (minimum 10 litres) and other pieces of equipment useful for the occasion. Among other things, the Fiat expedition to Dakar will include a Fiat Sedici as service back-up and three Iveco trucks to transport spares and mechanics.

Winner of two world rally championships with Lancia and two world Truck titles with Iveco in 1998 and 1999, Miki Biasion will be relying on the great manoeuvrability and personality of the Panda Cross. It should also not be forgotten that during its development stage the Panda 4x4, from which the Cross version is derived, was tested in every corner of the Earth for sturdiness, character and road performance, especially in road situations and climate conditions that were often at the limit: in the North, on the ice-bound tracks of freezing Lapland where the temperature drops to 40 below; in the South, in the torrid conditions of South Africa where the Atlantic meets up with the Indian Ocean; in the West, on the rugged slopes of the Sierra Nevada, in Spain; and in the East, in the foothills of the majestic, eternal Mount Everest. In all, the Panda 4x4 covered more than one million kilometres before going into production.

New Euro IV-standard line-up announced

The engine range for the Toyota Land Cruiser has been revised in line with Euro IV emissions standards. Both the 3.0-litre D-4D diesel and 4.0-litre VVT-i V6 petrol unit have been re-engineered to produce lower levels of particulate matter (PM) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide emissions are also slightly reduced.

The changes have resulted in only minor variations in performance: maximum output from the 3.0-litre D-4D rises by 7bhp to 171bhp (173 DIN hp). Fuel consumption figures are marginally altered, between +1 and -0.5mpg. Full details of the adjusted performance figures are given in the table below.

The new engines are available from 1 January and there is no change to the vehicles’ on-the-road prices. Their introduction coincides with an enhanced specification for diesel Land Cruiser models, which are now fitted with Toyota’s acoustic windscreen and additional sound absorbing material in the dashboard to improve noise and vibration levels.

The powertrain for the All Wheel Drive Volvo XC60 Concept, due to make its world debut at the Detroit show in January, is a six-cylinder, 3.2-litre bio-ethanol engine.

The engine offers dynamic performance with 265bhp and 340 Nm of torque – with 80 per cent lower carbon dioxide emissions compared with the same engine running on petrol.

“We believe that the FlexiFuel also has great potential for larger engine sizes and we are planning to expand our range of bio-ethanol-powered engines in the coming years,” says Magnus Jonsson, Senior Vice President, Research & Development at Volvo Cars.

The powertrain for the Volvo XC60 Concept uses the same six-cylinder, 3.2-litre, in-line petrol engine that was introduced in the all-new Volvo S80 and revised XC90 in mid-2006. The engine has been optimised for E85 (85 percent bio-ethanol, 15 percent petrol). This gives acceleration from 0–60 mph in 8.2 seconds and a top speed of approximately 143 mph. Fuel economy when running on E85 reduces to 19.2 mpg, as the energy content of ethanol is 40% lower than that of petrol.

Environmental benefits

Bio-ethanol is an entirely renewable fuel that can be produced from just about any biomass source, such as corn, wheat, sugar-cane or cellulose. On top of these environmental benefits, in many markets the car owner is compensated at the fuel pump through the lower price of bio-ethanol.

“One single renewable fuel will not be able to replace today’s fossil fuels, and the range of alternative fuels will probably be far wider in the future. Many different fuels and technologies are therefore being developed in parallel. Ethanol reduces dependency on fossil fuels and Volvo’s FlexiFuel programme makes a vital contribution to our strategy of environmental sustainability,” says Fredrik Arp, President and CEO of Volvo Cars.

Bio-ethanol – the future?

The demand for renewable bio-ethanol is growing steadily in Europe. There are already 23 plants producing ethanol in Europe which is expected to rise to just over 60 by 2008. Approximately 720 million gallons of ethanol are produced annually within the European Union, primarily from sugar beet and various grains. Capacity is expected to increase threefold by 2008.

In comparison, the USA has 101 bio-ethanol plants with a capacity of 4.8 billion gallons per year. It has a further 39 bio-ethanol refineries under construction, which will add more than 2.5 billion gallons capacity. There are already about 1,000 filling stations for E85 in the USA.

Volvo Cars has already launched a four-cylinder bio-ethanol-powered FlexiFuel engine in three of its nine models – the C30 SportsCoupe, S40 saloon and V50 Sportswagon – which are available in several European countries – Sweden, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, Belgium, Austria and Switzerland – and plans to introduce them to more countries in 2007, including, probably, the UK. Volvo predicts sales of 7,000 FlexiFuel cars worldwide in 2007.

New online direct ordering system helps reduce the price of map CDs & DVDs

Land Rover’s New Year resolution is to make it easier for owners to get 2007 off to a fresh start with the latest satellite maps. Drivers can now order navigation system map updates through a new online facility – and by selling direct to customers, many disks can be offered at less than half the original price.

Traditionally, update CDs and DVDs have been sold through Land Rover dealers, however, Phil Popham, Land Rover MD, says, “As a company we embrace the use of technology to develop the ownership experience and this is clearly demonstrated with this new facility. The ability to obtain the latest map information on-line gives our customers a simple, cost effective method of keeping their navigation systems updated.”

The new page for ordering map updates comes online on www.navigation.com/landrover on 22nd December and is available in the native languages for customers in the UK, Germany, France, Italy, Spain and the United States with other countries to follow. Pan–European and North American DVDs are being sold at one of the lowest prices on the market – £129 – with CDs of individual countries at £99.

The new system, which replaces existing sources, is easy to use. Once the car model and year of manufacture have been entered, the right disk or package of disks for that system will automatically be identified – map disks and navigation systems are not standard across all Land Rover models.

There are three different navigation systems currently in use in Land Rover vehicles and top quality NAVTEQ maps are available for all of them. For example,

depending on the system, there is a four CD pack covering over 20 countries in Western Europe and some major roads in Eastern Europe which covers around 5.9 million kilometres of road and features over 490,000 points of interest. It also includes Traffic Message Channel codes on motorways in Austria, Denmark, Germany, Italy, The Netherlands, Sweden and Switzerland.

Again depending on the vehicle model, there are also CDs for individual countries and a pan-European DVD which features around four million kilometres of road and enough maps on one disk to guide drivers from the wilderness of Scotland to the French Riviera and from the fjords of Norway to the tip of Italy.

Visitors to the site will also be able to access a range of information on mapping including the details on how much new information has been added to the disks – for example NAVTEQ has added nearly 200,000 kilometres and over 50,000 points of interest to the pan-European DVD since the last Land Rover release.

DETROIT – The 2007 HUMMER H3 has an available oversized power sunroof for an open-air feel, but the H3 Open Top concept goes a step further with ASC's unique sliding fabric "Infinivu" roof system. The expanded opening provides a nostalgic, safari-style experience in a thoroughly modern midsize SUV. The look and fun factor are classic, but the ease of operation, durability and weather resistance are strictly contemporary. Black chrome finish on the numerous H3 Chrome Appearance Package items available from HUMMER Accessories offsets the sparkling silver paint. Inside, the primary upholstery material is Townsend lambskin leather with Gatsby Green accent stitching.

Vehicle highlights

* Unique, uni-directional sliding fabric "Infinivu" roof system from ASC
* Fixed header, back glass and door
* Silver Spectra Flair tri-coat paint with blackout wheel wells
* 20 x 9-inch Rozzi EGO chrome wheels
* Mickey Thompson Baja Claw 325/50R20 tires
* Custom Townsend lambskin leather upholstery with Gatsby Green accent stitching, Opal Gray trim and Ebony carpet
* Black chrome door panel trim
* OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation system

View

The prospect of a new Lamborghini sport-ute is enough to send the automotive press scurrying for details and even credible speculation. Last month, we brought you a report based on spy shots of a disguised Porsche Cayenne that was thought to be a possible Lambo test mule. Now our friends over at Info Motori have issued a few renderings of what they think a future Lamborghini truck should look like.

[Source: Info Motori, autoblog ]

KYB has introduced its new shock absorber catalogue - a comprehensive listing of the KYB range as well as details of all new applications - for 2007.

The high quality, 440 page catalogue features 139 new shock absorber part numbers for KYB’s five ranges of shock absorbers and includes applications for cars, car derived vans (CDVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs).

76 manufacturers are included, giving 99% car parc coverage, and for easy reference are listed alphabetically. A pictorial listing of suspension components is also included at the back of the catalogue.

The catalogue now features a separate section listing applications for KYB’s AGX range of adjustable shock absorbers. A glossy divider makes this easy to access quickly. There are four new AGX applications for 2007, including the Suzuki Swift, Peugeot 307 and 307 SW. KYB’s AGX shock absorbers allow drivers to ‘dial-in’ their preferred performance setting to match their style of driving, without the need for special tools or lifting of the vehicle.

The catalogue also includes a colourful guide to shock absorbers including a ‘Quick check’ which gives hints for identifying when components need replacing.

KYB Suspension Mounting Kits and Protection Kits are also listed alongside its comprehensive shock absorber range. These components increase the life of the shock absorber and are easily replaced at the same time as the shock absorbers
for more deatils visit KYB’s website http://www.kyb-europe.com

Pickup truck specialist, Isuzu, is getting in the festive spirit with an imaginative, light-hearted marketing campaign making fun of popular chat-up phrases.

Just as the office party season gets under way, Isuzu has mailed a special ‘Little Black Book Of Pick-Up Lines’ to 100,000 small businesses.

Aimed at promoting the features and benefits of the Rodeo one-tonne pickup range and highlighting Isuzu’s current special offers, the humorous book is already proving a talking point among business users up and down the country.

“We are enjoying an excellent response on the web where tradesmen and their office staff have offered us their own pick-up lines – loaded, of course, with less subtle innuendos,” said Isuzu (UK) Limited Brand Manager, Kenyon Neads.

He added: “We will be giving a Smartnav satellite navigation system worth £850 to the person with the best pick-up line and selecting a winner is going to be tough. However, entering our competition is, at least, something you won’t regret in the morning.”

Typical of Isuzu’s own ‘Pick-Up Lines’ contained in the book are: ‘You Can Pull Anything With This’ (the Isuzu Rodeo has a class-leading 3,000 kg tow limit) and: ‘Do You Believe In Love At First Sight, Or Shall I Walk Past Again’ (you’ll always be going in the right direction in the multi-award-winning Isuzu Rodeo with Smartnav).

Meanwhile, until the end of the year Isuzu’s new 2.5 litre entry-level Rodeo Denver Max pickup is available with a free Prodrive Performance Pack worth £760.

The PPP boosts power from 100 PS at 3,800 rpm to 128 PS – a 28 per cent increase. Equally important – especially for towing and load-lugging duties – torque rises by 33 per cent from 166.7 lb.ft to a substantial 222.0 lb.ft.

Winner of a host of accolades, the Rodeo range now starts at £13,990 (on the road but excluding VAT) for the new 2.5 litre Denver Max.

Also available until 31 December is free automatic transmission on the popular Denver 3.0 Max and Max LE models worth £1,000.

British motorists are continuing to risk an unwanted £583 bill by ignoring advice about the usage of air-con.

Leading independent extended warranty specialist, Warranty Direct, says too many drivers switch off their air con during the winter leaving it prone to failure when the warmer weather returns.

Duncan McClure Fisher of Warranty Direct explains: “Switched off for long periods of time, water or air can get into the system. The moisture will react with the refrigerant to create acid, which then attacks the seals and pipe-work leaving you with a hefty repair bill.”

Data shows that air-conditioning units account for 1 in 20 mechanical failures with an average bill of £583 but as high as £1,661.

Air con is also no longer the luxury it once was. Experts estimate that almost four out of five new cars now come fitted with the cooling system as standard.

As well as regular use throughout the year, Warranty Direct also recommends annual maintenance checks which cost as little as £40 from an independent specialist.

KUE TO BE SEEN AT DETROIT MOTOR SHOW 2007

Kia has released a design sketch of its newest concept car – Kue. The Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) will be revealed at the upcoming North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit.

With distinctly grand SUV styling, the Kue majors on greater driving dynamics and performance. The focus is very much about an exciting driving experience, as opposed to the typical SUV or CUV lifestyle.

The Kue is based around a dynamically focused monocoque chassis and features bold seven-spoke 22-inch alloy wheels. Size wise, the Kue measures up with an overall length of 4,720mm and a 2,900mm wheelbase. This compares to 4,810mm and 2,890mm for Sedona and 4,590 and 2,710 for Sorento.

Although Kue will be presented at the Detroit show as a pure concept, it will present a number of strong styling indicators to the direction of Kia’s future models. The doors feature a distinctive, yet familiar, sill-to-waist door crease which can be clearly seen on the all new cee’d – the first Kia to be designed and built in Europe.

Kue will be unveiled at the NAIAS in Detroit in January 2007.

* On sale in the UK 1st March 2007
* Distinctively styled five-door crossover vehicle combining estate car versatility, rugged off-road styling, safety-oriented all-wheel drive ability and athletic dynamics
* Priced from £19,449 to £24,749
* Powered initially by a new 138bhp 2.0-litre turbo diesel engine, with a 154bhp 2.2 turbo diesel and all-new 168bhp 2.4-litre petrol engine arriving at the end of the year
* One-step fold-and-tumble second row seats
* Innovative ‘Hide and Seat’ third row of seats for occasional 5+2 seating
* Familiar Equippe, Warrior and Elegance line-up that combine high specification with wallet-friendly pricing
* Anticipated 5,600 sales in first 12 months

When Mitsubishi’s all-new Outlander arrives in showrooms on 1st March it will enter the UK’s fiercely competitive mid-sized SUV sector armed with fresh new styling, all-new chassis architecture, Euro IV-compliant turbo diesel power, electronically controlled all-wheel drive, seven-seat versatility, generous levels of standard safety and luxury specification and a low £19,449 start-off price.

With styling clearly inspired by the 2002 Pajero Evo 2+2 concept, the new Outlander is instantly identifiable as a member of Mitsubishi Motors’ rejuvenated line-up of new models. Key design points are its bold grille flanked by a set of piercing headlamps, that create a strong visual link with the new Shogun and L200 pick-up, the distinctively slashed back third side window, boldly flared wheel arches and split tailgate.

The Outlander sits on a new platform frame, Mitsubishi’s first-ever global platform, developed in conjunction with DaimlerChrysler. Light and stiff, the chassis along with the MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension and rack and pinion steering, has been tuned to deliver an engaging and sure-footed driving experience. For example, the Outlander’s roof is made of lightweight aluminium to lower the car’s centre of gravity, and in turn reduce roll and boost cornering agility.

Key to this driver-orientation is Mitsubishi Motors’ rally-inspired AWC All Wheel Control four-wheel drivetrain. With a simple twist of a dial mounted on the cabin’s centre console, the Outlander driver can electronically select three driving modes: 2WD front-wheel drive for economy-biased every day driving, 4WD Auto which instantly and effectively transfers torque to the wheels with the most grip up to a 70:30 split, and 4WD Lock which splits torque up to a 50:50 split between front and rear axle as and when required when driving in more difficult conditions. The AWC system has been designed with enhanced on-road stability and safety in mind, as well as allowing the Outlander to tackle wet, snowy or muddy tracks and undertake towing duties.

Like the Grandis, the Outlander is powered by a Volkswagen-sourced 1968cc intercooled turbo diesel four-cylinder engine. Featuring an advanced common rail injection system and a variable geometry turbo charger, it produces 138bhp at 4000rpm and a healthy 310Nm of torque at 1750rpm. Naturally, it meets demanding Euro IV emission regulations. Hooked up to a six-speed manual transmission with ratios developed to tap into the engine’s deep torque reservoir, the Outlander sprints to 62mph in 10.8seconds and has a maximum speed of 116mph. It’s fitted with 294mm ventilated disc brakes up front and 302mm disc brakes at the rear, backed up by ABS anti-lock and EBD electronic brakeforce distribution systems.

In the Equippe model, the engine returns 42.8mpg on the combined cycle (40.9mpg in the Warrior and Elegance models) and posts a tax-effective CO2 figure of 174g/km (183g/km for the Warrior and Elegance models). Towards the end of the year, the powertrain line-up will be bolstered by the arrival of a more powerful 154bhp 2.2 turbo diesel four-cylinder engine as well as the first iteration of Mitsubishi’s ‘World Engine’, an all-new 168bhp 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine developed in collaboration with DaimlerChrysler and Hyundai Motor Company. It will come with a six-speed CVT constantly variable transmission as standard.

The Outlander’s cabin design reflects its sporting aspirations, with a number of motorcycle motifs like its deeply cowled instruments and the arching centre console that’s reminiscent of a motorbike’s fuel tank. Particular attention has been paid to the quality of the plastics, leathers and fabrics used, and their fit and finish.

Outlander will offer an outstanding degree of packaging flexibility. At 4640mm long, 1800mm wide and 1680mm high (1720mm with roof rails) Outlander casts a smaller shadow than many traditional family estates, while still offering a spacious and well proportioned five-seater cabin with generous head, leg and shoulder room. A split tailgate, capable of supporting 200kg, provides easy access to the large and regularly shaped 541-litre boot, which can be extended to a vast 1691-litres with the second row of seats folded away.
Outlander owners won’t have to follow any complicated routines to fold down the seats – by holding down a small button secreted in the side of the boot for three seconds, the second row seats electrically flip forward to create a flat load bay for accommodating larger objects. This feature is standard on all derivatives. This versatility is further boosted on Warrior and Elegance models by Mitsubishi’s innovative ‘Hide&Seat’ third row of seats, which lies beneath the floor of the boot. When two further seats are needed, they simply fold out from the boot floor to create a third row of seats, complete with integrated head rests, turning the five-seater Outlander into an occasional seven-seater as and when needed.

As with all Mitsubishi vehicles, the new Outlander will combine generous levels of standard luxury and safety specifications with an aggressive pricing policy. The model line-up starts with the £19,449 Equippe, which comes with twin front airbags, air conditioning, keyless entry, six-speaker CD/MP3 player, ASTC Active Stability and Traction Control safety system, electric windows and mirrors, and rear spoiler as standard.

To this, the £21,999 Warrior adds, among other features, 18inch alloy wheels, ‘Hide&Seat’ folding third row seats, side and curtain airbags, a striking body kit, cruise control, Bluetooth handsfree telephone kit and a leather-covered steering wheel and gearlever. The flagship Elegance model adds heated leather seats, sunroof, satellite navigation complete with its own 30GB music server and hard disc drive for high speed data access, DVD player and a nine-speaker 650W Rockford FosgateTM Premium Sound System, as well as numerous other standard features.

Mitsubishi expects to sell around 5,600 Outlanders in the UK within the first 12 months of sales – some 10% of the annual UK mid-sized SUV market. At 60%, the Warrior range will account for the bulk of sales, with the Elegance model appealing to 30% of buyers and the remainder opting for the budget-conscious Equippe.

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 13 December 2006 – Land Rover’s Freelander 2 has been crowned ‘SUV of the Year’ by BBC Top Gear at the magazine’s annual awards celebration hosted by Jeremy Clarkson.

First unveiled at the British International Motor Show in London earlier this year, the Freelander 2 is on sale this month, and already, 1,500 of the new models have been sold.

With 14 editions of Top Gear magazine now being published in 14 countries around the world – editions were launched in India, China, Greece and across central Europe over the last 12 months – this award marks the Freelander 2’s first international accolade.

Top Gear magazine editor, Michael Harvey, said: “We took the Freelander 2 to India for our awards photo shoot, and it was driven from Mumbai to Goa and back again in four days. It performed faultlessly, carrying the Top Gear team and a pile of photographic equipment through 2,000km of the busiest, roughest and most dangerous roads on Earth.”

He added: “If you need to go on a road trip with a load of baggage and people, and want to do it comfortably, safely and in style, then in the compact SUV sector, the Freelander 2 is the only choice.”

Land Rover’s managing director, Phil Popham, said: “The Top Gear team is arguably the most influential group of motoring journalists in the world, and their global reach is growing all the time, so to win their award in the most competitive of SUV sectors is an outstanding accolade and a great start for the Freelander 2.”

The Freelander 2 is on-sale now at Land Rover dealerships throughout the UK, priced from £20,935 to £33,990, including a Climate Care contribution to off-set carbon emissions for 45,000 miles.

The January 2007 issue of Top Gear magazine goes on sale today.

The Nissan Pathfinder 2.5 dCi Aventura has been voted the ‘Best Medium Off-Roader 2006’ in Planet 4x4 magazine's first ever awards.

Alan Kidd, Planet 4x4’s editor, commented: “The Pathfinder is way ahead of the rest. By managing to score highest for both on- and off-road performance, while also providing the best value for money and offering the most appealing combination of image and practicality, it shows that it is possible to make compromises which work at every level. Combining comfort and manoeuvrability with loads of traction, it impressed everyone with its sure-footed performance and left the impression that it could cope with much more.”

The various 4x4s were put through their paces over a week at a former quarry recognised as one of Britain’s best 4x4 sites by a judging panel of four journalists. The vehicles were assessed for 17 different criteria, including image, practicality, ergonomics and all aspects of their on- and off-road performance. These marks were weighted to take account of the importance placed on each by typical buyers; the single criterion attracting the highest score was value for money.

The ’07 model year Pathfinder is now on sale and on-the-road prices start from £22,995.

Gaydon, Warwickshire, 11 December 2006 – It’s official! The Land Rover Discovery 3, Range Rover and Range Rover Sport are the cream of the 4x4 crop. That’s according to Planet 4x4 magazine which crowned Land Rover king of off-roaders after it swept the boards at its inaugural awards this month.

The Range Rover TDV8, Discovery 3 TDV6 and Range Rover Sport Supercharged claimed all three top spots respectively after scooping the top prize in six of the 14 categories, including Best Off-Roader for the TDV8 Range Rover, Large Off-Roader for the TDV6 Discovery 3, Large SUV for the Range Rover Sport Supercharged and Manufacturer Of 2006.

The awards were hotly contested by other manufacturers such as Audi, Nissan, Lexus and BMW.

Alan Kidd, editor of Planet 4x4, said: ' We think this is the most credible test of its kind ever undertaken by a 4x4 magazine, and Land Rover's success can't be underestimated. The Range Rover was always going to be among the favourites, but to sweep the board in such talented company is an extraordinary achievement and a genuine British success story.'

Buyers of 4x4s appear to agree with Planet 4x4’s verdict on Land Rovers as well, with sales figures for November showing that the Discovery 3's sales are up nearly 5% on November 2005, and that sales of the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport in the first 11 months of the year were 12% and 66% ahead of the same period last year.

To arrange a test drive or to find out more about any of Land Rover's vehicles contact your local Land Rover dealer or visit www.landrover.co.uk

4x4 UK and the forum admin team would like to take the time to wish all members and visitors a very merry christmas and a happy new year

PLANET 4X4’S 4X4 OF 2006 AWARDS

The Kia Sportage has been named as Britain’s best value SUV in Planet 4x4’s first annual awards.

The Sportage 2.0 CRDi XS surpassed its competitors such as the BMW X3, Range Rover TdV8, Audi Allroad TDI and Landrover to pick up the title of Best Value 4x4 2006.

The Sportage diesel was only introduced to the UK market in February 2005 and after less than 2 years on sale has proved to be one of Kia’s best sellers. The Sportage continues Kia’s drive to launch new models which are modern, stylish and technically sophisticated, while retaining the marques’ strong adherence to value for money.

Planet 4x4’s first annual awards were based on the results from tests that were conducted over a week at one of Britain's best 4x4 sites. Vehicles were assessed on seventeen different criteria by a panel of expert judges and the Sportage stood out from the competition in areas such as packaging, practicality, performance and dynamics as well as the general appeal.

Providing readers with valuable information prior to purchasing their new vehicles Planet 4x4’s marks for the testing were weighted to take account of the importance

placed on each by typical buyers. The single criterion attracting the highest score was value for money.

Alan Kidd, Editor of Planet 4x4, said: "One word that kept cropping up in the testers' notes about the Sportage was 'surprise’. Not just because of what it'll do both on and off-road, but the quality of its cabin and in particular a level of practicality that punches way above its weight. This is a real little giant-killer, and at £18,195 it's no wonder the Sportage is Britain's Best-Value 4x4.

“It's the Sportage that won the testers' hearts wherever it went. Packaging, practicality, performance, dynamics and general appeal all stood it in good stead, and with so much equipment on offer it makes you wonder why you should bother digging any deeper into your pockets,” he added.

Every Sportage comes with a range of comprehensive features and offers unbeatable value. The XE model equipment includes: air conditioning, traction control, 60/40 split ‘Drop & Fold’ rear seat, centre console storage box, electric front and rear windows, roof rails, 16-inch alloy wheels, remote central locking and perimeter alarm, two power outlets, twin front, side and curtain airbags, front fog lamps, CD audio system with MP3 player, and three-point seatbelts for all five occupants.

The higher-specification Sportage XS model adds numerous items, including full climate control, cruise control, ESP, privacy glass, leather seats, front seat warmers, trip computer, electric tilt/slide sunroof, heated door mirrors and electrochromic mirror with compass.

Designed to provide safe and economical on-road characteristics with the ability to handle demanding conditions away from the highway, the Sportage takes on the

established hierarchy as well as offering a real SUV alternative to saloon and hatchback drivers.

Stephen Kitson, Communications Director said: “This accolade for the Sportage proves that it’s not just one of our best sellers but one of our best value cars as well. We are delighted that Planet 4x4 chose to pitch Sportage against some of the big names and especially pleased that it came out top for value. Sorento is already established in the 4x4 market and this award helps the Sportage to get its foot firmly in the door as well.”

The Volkswagen works rally team next month embarks on its most ambitious challenge yet – to become the first to win the legendary Dakar Rally with a diesel powered vehicle.

Four of the squad’s Race Touareg 2 machines, each powered by a new 2.5-litre five-cylinder TDI engine, will take the start at Lisbon, Portugal, on 6 January. Ahead of them will lie more than 8500 km of arduous North African terrain and 16 days of fierce and hazardous competition.

Two former World Rally Champions lead the Red Bull-backed Volkswagen team – Spain’s Carlos Sainz and Finnish veteran Ari Vatanen, a four-time Dakar Rally winner. American Mark Miller and South Africa’s Giniel de Villiers will drive the other works cars, while a fifth Race Touareg has been entered by Volkswagen customer squad Team Lagos for Portugal’s Carlos Sousa.

Volkswagen Motorsport Director Kris Nissen believes that the team, which finished second on the 2006 Dakar, has the experience to win: ‘We want to be the first to win this long and tough event with a diesel. We were close to winning last time and since then we have worked extremely hard, undertaking an extensive test and development programme through which we have further improved the car, logistics and organisation.’

Among the developments for 2007 is a new cylinder head for the four-valve TDI engine which has helped push the maximum power output to 285 PS and torque to in excess of 600 Nm. ‘The new engine produces a little more power and delivers more torque over a wider rev range and is, in general, more drivable,’ says Donatus Wichelhaus, head of motorsport engine development.

Vatanen, 54, believes the team has the equipment to get the job done: ‘I felt comfortable the moment I sat in a Race Touareg,’ said Ari, who joined Volkswagen in the autumn, ‘and I am convinced that the team has a good chance of winning.’ The Finn, who last won the Dakar in 1991; is co-driven by Italian mother of two Fabrizia Pons.

Forty-four-year-old Sainz enjoyed a successful Dakar debut with Volkswagen in 2006, taking four stage wins and leading the rally for four days. ‘I learned a lot of new things during my first Dakar and the subsequent tests and events,’ said Carlos. ‘Hopefully I can now exploit this experience to the full.’ His co-driver, Frenchman Michel Périn, is one of the world’s most successful rally-raiders, with three Dakar wins under his belt already.

de Villiers is a multiple touring car champion who turned to rallying in 2000. The 34-year-old is a veteran of four Dakar Rallies and was second for Volkswagen in 2006, going on to win the Transiberico and Moroccan Rallies for the team. He is co-driven by Germany’s Dirk von Zitzewitz.

Works driver four is Arizonan Mark Miller, 44, who has been an off-road racer all his adult life and whose Volkswagen placed fifth on last year’s Dakar Rally. His co-driver is South Africa’s Ralph Pitchford.

Adds Nissen: ‘We wanted a mix of drivers and co-drivers who possessed not only speed and the will to win, but also maturity and experience. We achieved these targets with our squad. What is required on the Dakar Rally is a mixture of speed, car control and the ability to read the lie of the land.’

The route for next year’s marathon is a daunting one. Highlights include two Mauritanian stages totalling more than 1000 km from Atâr to Néma between which no service teams are permitted to work on the vehicles.

Volkswagen last won the Dakar in 1980 when Swede Freddy Kottulinsky drove his Iltis to victory. Mitsubishi, whose cars have won the event for the last six years, is expected to provide the chief opposition with both last year’s victor, Luc Alphand, and the 2004/’05 victor Stéphane Peterhansel, returning to the fray.

The Volkswagen team’s official partners are Red Bull, Castrol, BP Ultimate, BT infonet, BFGoodrich, ZF Sachs, Bosch and BBS.

Exclusive STARTECH Accessories for the Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass has arrived and in time for the market introduction of the new compact SUV
STARTECH already offers an exclusive customization program
and powerful performance tuning for the turbodiesel model.

The STARTECH SD3 performance kit for the diesel model consists of an auxiliary module that
modifies the engine electronics. With it maximum power output of grows from stock 140 hp / 103
kW to 180 hp / 132 kW. At the same time peak torque increases to 360 Nm between 1,750 and
2.500 rpm.

As an optimal complement to the STARTECH SD3 power kit there is the STARTECH sport
exhausts system with a large oval chrome tailpipe on either side. The fully stainless-steel precise-
fit exhaust is available for all engine variants of the Compass, and lends the Jeep a more thrilling
exhaust note.

For customizing the exterior STARTECH offers a custom-tailored designer suit. In the front the
Compass gets a new face with the STARTECH front fascia. Retaining the original mounting points
means easy installation and optimal precise fit.

The sides of the five-door are refined by elegant STARTECH rocker panels that serve as running
boards. The rear of the Jeep is modified with an element that attaches to the rear bumper. It
features integrated cutouts for the STARTECH sport exhaust.

'20-inch diameter instead of the 18-inch stock wheels' is the motto of the exclusive STARTECH
tire/wheel combination for the Compass. The Monostar IV five-spoke wheels are silver polished
and in size 9Jx20 with size 245/35 R 20 tires they fill out the wheel houses nicely.

STARTECH also offers progressive-rate springs that lower the ride height of the American SUV by
some 30 millimeters. The lowered center of gravity gives the Jeep sportier and even safer handling
characteristics.

STARTECH also adds exclusive and individual interior highlights. These include stainless-steel
door sills with illuminated STARTECH logo, high-quality velour floor mats and the STARTECH
Lifestyle interior upgrade package that gives the entire Compass cockpit a more elegant
appearance.

4x4 of 2006: The Results

• Land Rover sweeps the board in overall scores

• Kia Sportage is Britain’s Best Value 4x4

• Best Newcomer Award for Audi Allroad

Planet 4x4 magazine has announced the results of its 2006 4x4 Awards.

The January 2007 issue, on sale today (8 December), contains the full story of a landmark triumph for British manufacturing, with Land Rover taking the top three places – and being named 4x4 Manufacturer of 2006.

Full 4x4 of 2006 results:

Overall

1st: Range Rover TdV8 Vogue

2nd: Land Rover Discovery 2.7 TdV6 HSE

3rd: Range Rover Sport Supercharged HSE

Class Awards

Sub-Compact SUV: Fiat Sedici 1.9 MultiJet

Crossover: Audi Allroad 2.7 TDI

Compact SUV: Toyota RAV4 2.2 D-4D XT5

Medium Off-Roader: Nissan Pathfinder 2.5 dCi Aventura

Medium SUV: Lexus RX350 SE-L

Large Off-Roader: Land Rover Discovery 2.7 TdV6 HSE

Large SUV: Range Rover Sport Supercharged HSE

Luxury 4x4: Range Rover 3.6 TdV8 Vogue

Special Awards

Best Off-Roader: Range Rover 3.6 TdV8 Vogue

Best Value: Kia Sportage 2.0 CRDi XS

Best Engine: BMW 3.0sd (X3)

Best Newcomer: Audi Allroad 2.7 TDI

Most Improved: Range Rover Diesel (TdV8)

Manufacturer of 2006: Land Rover

Commenting on the awards, Alan Kidd, editor of Planet 4x4, said:

‘This is the most credible verdict ever handed down to the British 4x4 market. We recruited some of the country’s most respected vehicle testers and they examined each vehicle in real depth – these are results you can really believe in’.

‘We’ve never been slow to criticise Land Rover and its products in the past. So it’s only fair to recognise the extent to which the Range Rover, Discovery and Range Rover Sport impressed the most experienced team of testers ever put together by a British 4x4 magazine.’

Using Cooper tyres on your 4x4 will mean you’re well-equipped to get pretty much anywhere on land. But Cooper has to admit that making your car float is beyond even its capabilities, although visitors to the Lake District could be forgiven for thinking otherwise.

To celebrate its first year of using Cooper’s acclaimed Discoverer STT rubber on its fleet of 4x4 vehicles, offroad driving centre Kankku has launched an innovative advertising ploy.

The extreme driving experience venue, based in the scenic national park, has hung one of its branded 4x4 cars from a crane just outside Windermere so that the town’s many visitors can’t miss the adrenalin-fuelled activities on offer.

Cooper’s rugged Discoverer STT has been designed with the outdoor pursuits of rock-climbing, mud-eating and terrain-taming in mind, making it perfect for Kankku’s rocky trails and tough landscape.

The tyres might not have helped the vehicle get into this precarious position, but Kankku boss Nick Fieldhouse has nothing but praise for the STT, which boasts an aggressive tread pattern that offers outstanding traction, enhanced durability and increased puncture resistance.

“These STTs are given a hard life,” he said. “We have a seven-day a week operation taking novice to experienced 4x4 clients off-road in some of the most demanding conditions in the UK. They’re wonderful.”

For more information about Cooper Tire, log on to www.coopertire.com or to see more about the Kankku centre, visit www.kankku.co.uk.

December 5, 2006 – Torrance, CA - Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. will stage the world premiere of the all-new 2007 Tundra CrewMax full-size pickup at a press conference at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The four-door CrewMax will offer the most room, versatility and storage in the Tundra lineup.

Larger in every dimension than the model it replaces, the 2007 Tundra is available in 31 model configurations, with a choice between 4x2 and 4x4 drivetrains, and towing capacity of more than 10,000 lbs. This second-generation Tundra offers three cab styles, three wheelbases, three bed lengths, three engines, and three trim levels.

The next-generation Tundra was designed and engineered in the United States and will be assembled exclusively at the company's truck plants in Texas and Indiana.

The press conference will be held on Sunday, January 7 at 12:10 PM Eastern Time in the Riverview Ballroom in COBO Center and simulcast live to the Toyota display area at the show. A video clip of the press conference will be available for viewing following the event on the Toyota.com website.

Sunderland (December 5, 2006) – Nissan’s latest model, the QASHQAI, will begin rolling off the production line today at its plant in Sunderland.

QASHQAI is a compact crossover, combining the best attributes of a traditional family hatchback with the option of advanced 4x4 capability.

Around 130,000 will be produced in Sunderland, alongside NOTE, Primera, Micra and Micra C+C, potentially increasing total annual volume to around 400,000 units by the end of 2007 – a plant record.

QASHQAI’s arrival rounds off one of Sunderland’s busiest periods in its 20-year history with three new model launches within the last 16 months.

Vice President of UK Manufacturing, Trevor Mann, said: “This is a very important day for our plant as QASHQAI will spearhead Nissan’s drive for sustained, profitable growth in Europe.

“As such, the Sunderland workforce has been given a great deal of responsibility. But they have earned the right to build this car through their continued hard work and excellent track record in terms of productivity and reliability.

“I would also like to thank both national and local government and regional development agencies for their continued support, as well as the unstinting efforts of all our suppliers.”

QASHQAI represents a total investment of €322.8 m and will secure more than 3,000 jobs at the plant and within the regional supply chain. It has also created 200 temporary and 100 trainee posts at the plant.

Around 80% of QASHQAI production will be exported, the majority for sale within Europe. The car will also be shipped to numerous overseas markets such as the Middle East, Australia, South Africa as well as Japan – making it only the second Sunderland-built model to be exported to the Japanese market. The first being the 1996 model Primera.

Furthermore, QASHQAI is the first new model to be built down the plant’s recently installed ‘Nissan Integrated Manufacturing System’. This is a new, flexible line being adopted at Nissan plants around the world. Its many benefits over a conventional line include a shorter lead time, improved ergonomics, multi-model, random sequence production and increased integration with suppliers.

From today, the car will ramp up to full production volume in just 4 weeks, ensuring dealers across Europe are fully stocked ready for the car’s start of sale date at the end of February 2007.

Customers will be able to choose between 3 trim grades and 4 engine options. Two petrol units, a 1.6 and 2.0-litre, will be available in February, as will a 1.5 diesel. An all-new 2.0 diesel engine will join the line up from April next year.

GeigerCars.de Builds the Christmas HUMMER H2

Santa's good old reindeer sleigh is taking a break. This year Santa will deliver his presents using a very special HUMMER H2 from GeigerCars.de! Europe's largest HUMMER dealer and leading European tuner of American automobiles built a Christmas HUMMER with lots of festive extras for the TV magazine Galileo on the German 'Pro 7' channel.

On the outside St. Nick's new company vehicle sports a fiery red special-effect paintjob from Munich paint specialist Michael Rollwage, complete with an airbrushed winter scene and a depiction of the Star of Bethlehem.

The body was also modified extensively. The front doors no longer open in the conventional way; they now open by swinging up like gullwing doors. Tin-coated metal moldings that have been welded seamlessly into the rear side window openings turn the H2 into a true panel cruiser. To perfect the Christmas looks the body was further fitted with 250 LED lamps that clearly define the H2's contours at night.

The H2 also provides everything Santa needs for his winter fitness program: A specially designed external rear luggage rack safely holds two HEAD Snowboards as well as two EBRA curling stones and hockey sticks. A large roof carrier box is also part of the exclusive equipment as is an old-fashioned sled.

The spectacular GeigerCars.de Christmas HUMMER looks are further characterized by 10Jx22 chrome wheels with Pirelli Scorpion ATR tires in size 325/55 R 22.

And should the snow get too deep for even the HUMMER H2, Santa Claus can switch to the snowmobile painted in the same theme as the HUMMER itself. The GeigerCars.de technicians custom-built a special trailer based on an ALKO chassis that runs on the same 22-inch light-alloy wheels as the Christmas HUMMER.

Special emphasis was placed on a cuddly interior ambiance. Master upholsterer Andi Richter fitted the entire interior with red leather and carpet, color-coordinated with the exterior color. Walnut-burl applications add further attractive visual highlights.

Reportedly Santa Claus is a big music enthusiast and thus sound specialist Thomas Regler equipped the HUMMER with a custom-tailored JBL sound system with 3,800 watts. But why stop there? The images from the digital TV receiver or from a DVD play on no less than three screens; in the front row, in the lavish rear compartment and in what used to be the trunk.

All it takes to start a great après-ski party is to open the liftgate: The restyled trunk now not only offers maximum viewing pleasure with a 42-inch LCD widescreen TV, and sound from the mighty JBL speakers: Integrated thermos cans provide hot mulled wine while a heated stainless-steel box can hold warm cookies.

For a comfortable and romantic time after the party the rear compartment - visually enlarged by a mirror on the rear wall - features an electric fireplace with white fake bearskin rug, an auxiliary Webasto heater and a large red leather couch.

The GeigerCars.de Christmas HUMMER represents a value of some 110,000 Euros and was raffled off among the Galileo viewers. We don't know what Santa Claus thought about the loss of his 320-hp company vehicle.

When Nissan’s adventurous QASHQAI crossover goes on sale next March it will give buyers shopping for a compact family car a totally different alternative. QASHQAI (say it ‘Cash-Kai’) blends the image of a coupé with the interior space of a hatchback and the strength of a 4x4. Nissan hopes it will steal buyers from the Volkswagen Golf – prices will therefore start at £13,499 for the 1.6 Visia rising to £21,899 for the 2.0dCi Tekna with automatic transmission and ALL-MODE 4x4.

Borrowing its name from a desert-dwelling nomadic tribe living near the Zagros Mountains in South Western Iran, but created in multi-cultural London, QASHQAI is described by Stephane Schwarz, Design Director at Nissan Design Europe as an ‘Urban Nomad’. “It’s tough and compact for the city but sleek and agile for journeys away from the town,” he says.

Although taller than a typical hatch, it takes up no more road space than a Ford Focus. And although four-wheel drive versions will be offered, QASHQAI “doesn’t shout at you the way SUVs do. It isn’t as aggressive, but it is assertive in the way it sits on the road,” says Schwarz.

QASHQAI’s arrival will mark the introduction of a new badging system which, in time, will be rolled out across the entire Nissan passenger car range. Except that the badges themselves won’t exist.

Already in use in mainland Europe, the new grading system means forgetting S, SE, SX and so on and learning three new names: Visia, Acenta and Tekna. Visia is the entry level model with Tekna at the top and Acenta the meat in the sandwich... though those badges appear nowhere on the actual cars. How to remember the pecking order? Think VAT.

Following established Nissan practice, QASHQAI’s pricing follows a simple ‘walk-up’. Starting from a base £13,499 for the entry-level Visia 1.6 model, an extra £1,500 moves you to Acenta grade. And a further £1,500 (or £3,000 on top of Visia) gets you a Tekna.

Another walk-up price of £1,100 will move you from the 1.6 petrol to a 1.5dCi turbodiesel while £1,400 will take you from the 1.6 to a 2.0-litre petrol. If you want the 2.0dCi turbodiesel, that’ll be £2,700 over the price of the entry level model.

QASHQAI Visia 1.6 (115ps/160Nm)

£13,499

QASHQAI Visia 1.5dCi (106ps/240Nm)

£14,599 (i.e. 1.6 plus £1,100)

QASHQAI Visia 2.0 (140ps/200Nm)

£14,899 (i.e. 1.6 plus £1,400)

QASHQAI Visia 2.0dCi (150ps/320Nm)

£16,199 (i.e. 1.6 plus £2,700)

Add £1,500 regardless of engine size to move to Acenta grade or £3,000 for a Tekna model. Owners of 2.0-litre models can upgrade from two- to ALL-MODE four-wheel drive for added security and grip in poor conditions for an extra £1,600 while automatic (six-speed torque converter transmission on the 2.0dCi 4x4, CVT on the 2.0-litre petrol) is an extra £1,100. The most expensive model, therefore – an automatic Tekna 2.0dCi with ALL-MODE 4x4 – is £21,899.

So what do you get for your money? It might be an entry level model but the Visia grade is far from poorly equipped. Major standard safety equipment covers ABS plus BAS and EBD as well as front, side and curtain airbags. Personal security features include automatic door locking when the car is moving above walking pace and automatic operation of the hazard flashers during an emergency.

Also standard on Visia grade – and therefore on every QASHQAI – is Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity. Once a Bluetooth-equipped mobile has been paired with the QASHQAI, calls can be made and received hands-free. The system automatically mutes the stereo when a call is in progress and can be operated via controls mounted on the steering wheel.

Other practical and comfort features include electric power steering, amber ambient interior lighting, a 60/40 folding rear bench, electrically adjustable door mirrors, height adjustable driver’s seat, front armrest and all-round power windows.

There’s also air conditioning – complete with a mild flow vent on the top of the dashboard which generates a gentle breeze across the cabin to the rear passengers – a trip computer and an AM/FM radio with single CD player. Outside, there are 16 inch alloy wheels while the door handles and mirrors are black.

Find £1,500 more and a QASHQAI owner can walk-up to an Acenta. That extra cash buys a host of extra luxury. The driver’s seat gains lumbar support while the driver will grip a leather-covered steering wheel. And he or she will have less to do, thanks to the addition of automatic headlights, rain sensing wipers and cruise control.

Parking is easier thanks to ultrasonic reversing ‘bleepers’ and electrically folding door mirrors while winter driving is eased by the addition of front fog lights. The air conditioning is upgraded to a fully automatic dual zone climate control system while the stereo now incorporates an in-dash six-disc autochanger and remote control. Finally, rear passengers gain a central armrest while would-be thieves should be aware there’s an alarm system fitted.

For an extra £1,500, the Tekna allows you to bask in the luxury of full leather upholstery. And while you warm your backside on the heated front seats, you can view the world through a full length panoramic glass roof (Acenta owners can specify the panoramic roof as a £700 option).

Xenon headlamps (with washers) light the way ahead while an automatically dimming rear view mirror prevents the driver from being dazzled from behind. Tekna grade also includes 17 inch alloy wheels and Nissan’s brilliant Intelligent Key – far more than keyless entry, the car can be locked or unlocked and the engine started without the ‘IK’ ever having to leave a pocket or handbag.

As well as greater power and performance, walking-up from 1.6 petrol or 1.5dCi diesel to either of the 2.0-litre engines on offer also adds the latest generation ESP to the equation. Arguably the ultimate active safety aid, ESP constantly monitors each wheel for signs of slip or a break in traction. Working in conjunction with the ABS and the engine management systems, ESP can reduce engine torque and brake each wheel, individually if needs be, to help the driver maintain control.

The £1,600 walk-up to four-wheel drive on 2.0-litre models brings Nissan’s highly acclaimed ALL-MODE 4x4 into the picture. One of the most sophisticated all-wheel drive systems available anywhere in the world, ALL-MODE adds an extra dimension to QASHQAI’s abilities, providing the added security of four-wheel drive in slippery conditions.

Being electronically controlled, ALL-MODE reacts faster than some other automatic four-wheel drive systems, ensuring drive is transferred between wheels and axles the instant low grip conditions are encountered.

Left in its automatic setting, ALL-MODE apportions torque to each axle based on a number of sensor inputs, ranging from 100 per cent front (with zero per cent to rear), or up to 50 per cent rear in a fraction of a second. The system automatically compensates for unexpected slippery road conditions, such as wet leaves in autumn, early morning winter ice or loose gravel at any time of the year. In normal driving conditions QASHQAI has all the benefits of two-wheel drive including improved fuel economy and less wear and tear on components.

With such complete specifications it should be little wonder that options are few. As well as the £700 panoramic roof (standard on Tekna models, remember), ESP is available as a £365 extra on 1.5dCi and 1.6 petrol versions (standard on all 2.0-litres, remember).

Metallic paint is a £425 extra while £1,350 buys satellite navigation with rear view reversing camera. And that’s it.

So let’s just run through that again. QASHQAI prices start at £13,499 for the Visia and rise by £1,500 for Acenta and a further £1,500 for Tekna grade (VAT, remember). To get from 1.6 petrol to 1.5dCi requires £1,100; £1,400 to get to the 2.0-litre petrol and £2,700 to the 2.0dCi. ALL-MODE four-wheel drive costs an extra £1,600 on 2.0-litre models while automatic (CVT on the 2.0-litre petrol; conventional six-speed torque converter on 2.0dCi 4x4) is an extra £1,100.

Stuttgart. The Cayenne is starting a new chapter in its success story: four years after the model's launch, Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is presenting the second generation of its sporty SUV. The new, attractively designed Cayenne, Cayenne S and Cayenne Turbo models have been given more powerful, direct gasoline injection engines. These are known at Porsche as Direct Fuel Injection (DFI), and they lower the fuel consumption of individual models by over eight percent (NEDC). In real driving conditions, savings of up to 15 percent are possible. The new Cayenne will be in Porsche showrooms from February 24, 2007.

The basic version of this sporty SUV has a 40-bhp (29-kW) power enhancement and is now driven by a 290-bhp (213-kW) six-cylinder engine, the displacement of which has increased from 3.2 to 3.6 liters. The torque of the Cayenne has climbed from 310 to 385 Nm. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 227 km/h. The previous model managed 9.1 seconds and 214 km/h.

Thanks to new direct gasoline injection and the introduction of VarioCam Plus valve control, the Cayenne S, now with an even bigger 4.8-liter, naturally aspirated V8 engine, produces a torque of 500 Nm (previously 420 Nm) and an output of 385 bhp (283 kW), an increase of 45 bhp (33kW). These higher figures translate into a 0-100 time of 6.6 seconds and a top speed of 252 km/h. (Previous model: 6.8 seconds and 242 km/h.) The performance figures for the new Cayenne Turbo are also impressive, with an engine output 50 bhp (37 kW) higher than that of its predecessor. The new eight-cylinder engine, driven by a twin exhaust-gas turbocharger, produces 500 bhp (368 kW) and 700 Nm (previously 620 Nm). This Turbo can race from 0-100 km/h in 5.1 seconds and has a maximum speed of 275 km/h. (Previous model: 5.6 seconds and 266 km/h.)

As before, optimum power transmission is ensured by Porsche Traction Management (PTM) which, in standard operating mode, distributes engine power between the rear and front wheels in a ratio of 62:38. The multi-disk clutch can direct up to 100 percent of drive traction to the front or rear as required.

The Cayenne Turbo is fitted with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) with air suspension as standard. This variant can now be augmented with the new Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control (PDCC) roll stabilizer system. This constant roll control, also available for the Cayenne and Cayenne S, limits vehicle roll on corners and counterbalances it completely in almost all driving situations. The Cayenne thus offers significant improvements in terms of handling, directional stability and ride comfort. When off-road, the system enables maximum axle articulation and improves traction.

Porsche Stability Management (PSM), with its brake assist function, advanced trailer stabilization system and off-road ABS, comes as standard on all Cayenne models. These functions improve the brakes' reaction speed, markedly reduce the yawing which can affect vehicles when towing, and optimize braking performance on loose ground. What's more, with static and, for the first time, dynamic bend lighting, the bi-xenon headlamps fitted as standard to the Cayenne Turbo increase active safety. The system, which can also be ordered for the Cayenne and Cayenne S, is activated as soon a speed of three kilometers per hour has been reached.

The Euro-base price for the Cayenne is 43,300 Euros, while for the Cayenne S it is 55,800 Euros. The Cayenne Turbo is priced at 91,100 Euros. In Germany, the Cayenne costs 51,735 Euros, while the more powerful S version retails at 66,610 Euros. The top model Cayenne Turbo has a list price of 108,617 Euros (including 19 percent sales tax and country-specific requirements).

LOS ANGELES – GM Advanced Design has won the Los Angeles Auto Show's Design Challenge for the second year in a row. This year's winning entry is a two-dimensional rendering of a 2015 Blue Sky Concept that addresses environmental sustainability. Called the HUMMER 02, this design proves that daily use of a vehicle could result in a net gain for the environment.

The 2006 Design Challenge theme is Environmental Sustainability, a challenge for design studios to transform the future of driving into an environmental experience. Contest guidelines also required that vehicle entries be 100-percent recyclable and have a maximum lifespan of just 60 months. GM's entry is presented as a series of two-dimensional images, not as a 3D model.

Designers at GM's West Coast Advanced Design Studio in Southern California tackled the far-reaching challenge – to develop a concept that resulted in a net gain for the environment. The GM team crafted an entry that surpasses the contest's sustainability principles: the HUMMER O2 Concept.

"The HUMMER O2 epitomizes the ethos of the true Southern California outdoors enthusiast with rugged capability, a 'tread lightly' contact system and construction methods promoting safety, accessibility and reusability," said Frank Saucedo, director, GM Advanced Design in California . "Most vehicles in L.A. spend 95 percent of their time outdoors subjected to sunlight, so why couldn't a vehicle give back?"

To fully understand the HUMMER O2, the GM team believes that terms commonly associated with ecology and biology work best.

Photosynthesis

The HUMMER 02 Concept features a revolutionary phototropic body shell that produces pure oxygen throughout the life of the vehicle. Algae-filled body panels transform carbon dioxide into pure oxygen that is subsequently released back into the environment and inside the vehicle.

"The panels essentially function as the 'leaves' of the HUMMER O2 and effectively clean the air in the surrounding environment," said Saucedo. "Used algae are recycled as biomass for the further production of energy."

Breathing

The HUMMER 02 promotes the production of oxygen by a two-way valve system in the corner of each panel. The sophisticated devices control and monitor the amount of carbon dioxide and source nutrition needed for the algae cultivation while optimizing oxygen production and distribution.

Energy

Four modular and self-contained fuel cells power hydraulic motors built into each wheel. A hydrogen tank is placed in an ideal central location for safety and structural purposes, becoming the "heart" of the vehicle.

Footprint

Active Tread TM tires provide low resistance on the highway while allowing excellent off-road progress as their shape changes – adapting to and protecting the surrounding environment.

Structure

Finally, to further reduce environmental impact, the HUMMER O2's construction specifies the use of 100-percent post-consumer materials, including an aluminum frame, seats finished with Volatile Organic Components-free (VOC-free) materials and glazing via PETE (similar to everyday consumer packaging, such as soda bottles).

The GM West Coast Advanced Design Studio won the 2005 Design Challenge competition with its GMC PAD Concept, a mobile urban loft designed for the L.A. environment.