Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, 2010

Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S, 2010

 

The new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S sets yet another milestone in terms of sportiness in the high performance luxury saloon segment of the automotive market. Conceived and developed as "a real driving machine in the guise of a luxury saloon", the Quattroporte Sport GT S is the ultimate expression of Maserati's sportiness in the Quattroporte range.

The technical changes to the new Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S in respect to the Quattroporte S concern four areas:
    * the mapping of the V8 4.7 litre engine, with power increased to 323kW;
    * the gearshift management software, with new features designed to increase driving enjoyment;
    * the front and rear suspension system featuring single-rate dampers, stiffer springs and lower ride height;
    * the sports exhaust controlled by pneumatic valves for a deep, throaty and captivating sound.

The sportier and more aggressive look is also evident due to the interior and exterior stylistic choices:
    * the new black grille with concave vertical fins featuring the Trident logo with red accents, typical of the sportier versions of Maserati models;
    * the new headlights, in metallic titanium finish;
    * the side and rear "shadow line", which includes black finishing around the doors, body-coloured door handles and black twin oval exhaust pipes;
    * the new M-design seats with perforated Alcantara and leather upholstery;
    * the standard trim in Titantex, a "titanium coloured" composite material.

Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic, 2010

Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic, 2010

 

The Maserati's commitment to introduce a new model at each international car show, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic will première at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show. The new Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features a 4.7 V8 which develops 440 HP (323kW) at 7000 rpm. The maximum torque is 490Nm at 4.750 rpm.

The major novelty is the combination of the automatic transmission with the most powerful wet sump Maserati V8 on the GranTurismo - until now offered as 4.2 l with automatic transmission and 4.7 l with an electro-actuated gearbox. Thanks to the combination of the 323kW produced by the powerful 4.7l V8 engine and the smoothness of the ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic stresses the original granturismo concept while at the same time offering peak performance.

The Skyhook suspension system featuring continuously adjustable dampers provides great driving comfort. Passive safety is further enhanced thanks to the introduction on the Maserati GranTurismo range of a new generation passenger air-bag with Low Risk Deployment functionality.

Consistently with the unmistakable design of all Maseratis, the Maserati GranTurismo S Automatic features some marked stylistic differences which make it immediately recognisable: the new under-door mini-skirts featuring a prominent shape, which enhances the dynamism of its profile and the new 20" wheel rims with "Trident" design, which recall the strength and elegance of the car.

A further enriched equipment increases the on board pleasure for the driver and the three passengers, thanks to the Bluetooth® Wireless Technology, offered as standard, and the Ipod® interface, available upon request, which complete the Maserati Multi Media System.

Lincoln MKZ, 2010

Lincoln MKZ, 2010

 

 

 

 The new 2010 Lincoln MKZ mid-size sedan was designed for customers who have come to equate Lincoln with elegant, modern design, unparalleled comfort, unrivaled features and top quality.

New for 2010, the Lincoln MKZ features a new sport version with special sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels, darkened grille and headlamps, and an interior with contrasting piping and unique appliqués.
The new Lincoln MKZ also offers segment-exclusive features, including first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS™) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), which makes navigating traffic and parking lots safer and easier.

BLIS tracks vehicles in the blind-spot zones on either side of the vehicle using two multiple-beam radar modules behind the rear fenders. Indicator lights in the outside rear-view mirror on both sides of the vehicle warn the driver when a vehicle enters the defined blind-spot zone, extending from the side mirror to 10 feet behind the vehicle and 10 feet away from the vehicle.

CTA uses the BLIS radar sensors to alert the driver of approaching traffic while in reverse and backing out of a parking spot. The CTA tracks up to 65 feet on either side of the vehicle and warns the driver through both audible and visual alerts.
In addition to this new technology for mid-size sedans, Lincoln MKZ offers SYNC, Next-Generation Voice-Activated Navigation, keyless entry, EasyFuel capless fuel filler, THX-branded audio and adaptive HID headlamps.

The new MKZ also features Lincoln signature design elements, including the split-wing grille and thinner wraparound head lamps for a wider, sportier look. Its chamfered front fascia also shares a family resemblance with the Lincoln MKS, with a sculpted hood and ridges flowing into the A-pillar. In the rear, the Lincoln MKZ features a new decklid with wider LED taillamps accentuating the width of the car and separated by the Lincoln star.

The Lincoln MKZ's presence is enhanced by 17-inch aluminum wheels, available 17-inch chrome wheels, and available 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, which are included in the Sport Appearance Package with sport-tuned suspension.
Inside, MKZ's cabin reflects an even more upscale look featuring genuine aluminum and wood depending on the trim package, an all-new instrument panel, detailed touches including new welcome lighting, chimes, tuxedo stitching on luxury leather seats and Bridge of Weir leather.

The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland, pioneered on the classic Lincoln Continental Mark II and used on the MKS, wraps the MKZ seats. The Lincoln MKZ leather is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through.
The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.

Additions or improvements to the 2010 Lincoln MKZ interior include:
    * Armrest clamshell storage
    * New daytime lit and 3-dimensional instrument cluster layout with center speedometer
    * New door trim with 360-degree door handles
    * Redesigned center stack with high-mounted, Next-Generation Navigation system
    * Leather-wrapped steering wheel with real wood insert
    * Interior schemes include Dark Charcoal or Steel Gray with Swirl Walnut accents, or Light Camel with Olive Ash wood accents

Technology and information at your fingertips
The new Lincoln MKZ is more than just a pretty face and striking new interior. New technology features help Lincoln's new mid-size sedan stand out, too. They include:
    * SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities - plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
          o 911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
          o Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer's paired and operable mobile phone.
    * Voice-Activated Navigation, which integrates several functions including voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch-screen display. The navigation system's text-to-speech function calls out street names while in route to a destination and reads incoming text messages when the system is linked to SYNC. The integrated DVD player is capable of reading CD-Audio, MP3 CDs, DVD, DVD-Audio and DVD-ROM (for digital map updates). A music jukebox function stores more than 150 hours of music. The screen even can be customized with personal photos.
    * SIRIUS Travel Link™, an industry-leading technology that, when combined with the voice-activated navigation system will provide users with real-time traffic data with accident and incident information, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts, and fuel price information for over 120,000 gas stations.
    * Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.
    * Reverse Camera System mounts a small camera on the decklid that is activated when the Lincoln MKZ is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle.
    * The video image is displayed in the navigation screen on Lincoln MKZs equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror on vehicles without navigation.
    * Ambient Lighting System is displayed around the footwells, cup holders, door map pockets, door release handles, door and instrument accents and scuff plates - plus special "Welcome" and "Farewell" sequential lighting.
    * THX II Premium Certified Audio System with 5.1 Surround Sound, which is provided by a 12-channel amplifier that delivers 600 watts to 14 strategically placed speakers, including two subwoofers. A center channel speaker array features THX Slot Speaker™ technology, which allows for a wider sound image and better control of how music is distributed throughout the vehicle's acoustically engineered cabin. In addition, the system features a 10 GB hard drive jukebox, allowing Lincoln owners to store up to 2,400 of their favorite music tracks.

Lincoln MKT, 2010

Lincoln MKT, 2010

 

 

Lincoln is offering full-size luxury crossover customers a fresh new choice with the 2010 Lincoln MKT, a three-row tourer that delivers the optimal blend of fuel economy, performance, technology and spaciousness.
The all-new 2010 Lincoln MKT is larger than the two-row Lincoln MKX mid-size premium crossover and joins the sumptuous and sporty Lincoln MKS luxury sedan launched in 2008 and the new Lincoln MKZ sedan that hits the market in spring.
Standard on every Lincoln MKT is the brand's signature design - complete with a split waterfall grille, a beveled chamfer along the vehicle's shoulder line, a flowing cantrail that frames the greenhouse and full-width horizontal taillamps that span the subtly curved weight-saving magnesium liftgate that adds visual character while protecting generous rear cargo space.

Precision Lincoln MKT craftsmanship is reflected in world-class panel margins, and in the high tactile quality of interior surfaces and trim.
Inside, high-quality materials and precision-stitched craftsmanship are evident on every surface - from the leather-trimmed seating surfaces and floating armrests to the optional flow-through second- row center console and jewel-like acrylic instrument cluster with LED white lighting.

Beyond that, customers can choose how to best specify Lincoln MKT, which offers:
    * Customers' choice of a standard fixed glass Panoramic Vista Roof™ with power-assisted front and rear sunshades - or the available Power Panoramic VistaTM roof
    * Either six- or seven-passenger variations with two different second-row seating configurations. A standard 60/ 40 split folding rear bench seat features heated outboard seating positions. Power "fold and tumble" bucket seats, with heating, cooling and power-assisted lumbar adjustment are also available. A rear console-mounted five-quart-capacity refrigerator is available in the individual bucket seating configuration
    * Second-row footrests and an available dual headrest Family Entertainment System with twin 7-inch DVD playback screens offering individual or simultaneous programming
    * A litany of exterior paint colors, including Ingot Silver Clearcoat Metallic, Tuxedo Black Clearcoat Metallic, Red Candy Tint Clearcoat Metallic, Cinnamon Clearcoat Metallic, Steel Blue Clearcoat Metallic, Gold Leaf Clearcoat Metallic, Sterling Grey Clearcoat Metallic and White Platinum Tri-Coat

Balancing power and efficiency
Fuel-efficiency also comes standard on the Lincoln MKT - and customers have a choice of two powerful yet practical V-6 engines.
A 3.7-liter, 24-valve variation of the award-winning Duratec engine family is standard. Delivering an expected 268 horsepower at 6,500 RPM and 267 ft.-lb. of torque at 4,250 RPM, this engine has been tuned to provide brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery.
Significant engineering and development time were invested in the 3.7-liter Duratec V-6 to deliver best-in-class noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) control. Lincoln MKT was benchmarked for interior quietness to allow normal conversation within the vehicle, using an articulation index.

A two-speed fuel pump and Aggressive Deceleration Fuel Shut-Off (ADFSO), combined with optimized transmission and final drive gearing, are designed to allow this engine to deliver segment-leading fuel economy for Lincoln MKT.

For even more performance driving feel, Lincoln MKT also offers a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6. This engine provides the power of a normally-aspirated V-8 with V-6 fuel economy. This advanced engine delivers a class-leading estimated 355 horsepower at 5,700 RPM, while generating 350 ft.-lb. of torque at 3,500 RPM.
EcoBoost is a global Ford strategy to deliver the power that customers want, combined with the fuel economy that they need. Combining gasoline direct injection with twin turbochargers and a smaller-displacement engine, EcoBoost can match the power output of larger, naturally aspirated engines while yielding torque and fuel economy gains.

Pressurized direct injection helps eliminate the "turbo lag" associated with earlier turbocharged engines. And even with the additional horsepower, fuel economy is optimized by an increased compression ratio, enabled by air-charged cooling and sophisticated knock controls.
Lincoln MKT is equipped with a six-speed SelectShift® automatic transmission. This advanced gearbox offers the driver a choice between fully automatic operation and manual control.

All-wheel-drive is optional in the Lincoln MKT with the standard 3.7-liter V-6. The AWD option enhances the vehicle's capability in a variety of weather conditions. The sophisticated AWD system is fully automatic, using an advanced array of internal electro-mechanical clutches to efficiently distribute torque between front and rear wheels as needed. AWD is standard in the Lincoln MKT with the EcoBoost 3.5-liter V-6.

Quiet, confident motoring
Key elements of Lincoln MKT suspension development and tuning included minimizing front end lift on acceleration, offering stable and engaging steering and handling characteristics that provide confidence to all drivers, all while delivering a luxurious ride quality consistent with Lincoln brand character.

A new rear suspension system features a "one for one" shock absorber ratio. The resulting linear response gave the engineering team a stable base line for suspension tuning, allowing the team to deliver a better balance between responsive handling and control as well as a smooth ride. It also improves rear suspension isolation and enables the use of 20-inch wheels.

Lincoln MKT delivers a new level of quiet confidence that delivers best-in-class levels of NVH control. Virtual modeling and wind tunnel tests helped engineers optimize the vehicle, influencing everything from side view mirror placement and special sound deadening in the bulkhead to extensive exhaust system isolation and the inclusion of both an acoustic windshield and dual-layer front side glass to specifically reduce A-pillar wind noise.