Reviewed by TheCarConnection.com

The S5 is powered by a 354-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-8 engine that spins out a peak 325 pound-feet of torque. Rear-biased Quattro all-wheel drive helps the wheels get traction no matter what the surface, and helps neutralize handling in spirited driving. With either transmission—six-speed manual or automatic, both a joy to drive—the Audi S5 gets to 60 mph in a mere 4.9 seconds and tops out at 155 mph. It’s the only car in its class to offer all-wheel drive with a manual transmission.

The optional Drive Select package enables drivers to tune suspension and steering response. The S5 has brilliant handling, with some occasionally harsh ride motions when you run into—well, run over—rough surfaces in mid-corner. Even with electronic power steering, it turns in flat and responds in a snap, though the feel is a little light. The 2009 S5’s braking is stellar.

The cockpit of the Audi S5 sports a tight feel, paired with a rather complex, busy array of controls on the dash. Audio system control buttons are numerous; the designers have opted for lots of shiny aluminum and chrome trim, so it’s not a restful place to meditate. The front seats cradle you in comfort, but the rear seats are merely tight and totally unable to accommodate adult legs. Thanks to the thick pillars and low roofline, visibility out the back while driving is pretty dismal. On the plus side, the trunk is large.

The 2009 Audi S8 doesn’t give up any conveniences in the name of high performance; expect everything that you would in a full-fledged luxury coupe, including power and heated everything, along with features like adaptive headlamps. Audiophiles will be very fond of the available Bang & Olufsen sound system.

<Look at some other cool stuff at 33 Rebels>

Here is a beautiful machine bred out of the racing DNA of Audi… The four rings of Audi has always been associated with motorsport since the 1930s when Auto Union race cars racked up several Grand Prix wins. (FYI : Audi AG evolved from 4 companies -- Auto Union, NSU, Horch and DKW. This explains their logo of 4 rings in a line, representing the union of these 4 companies.)

Presenting the Audi R8…

<Audi R8 review and Audi R8 pictures taken from RSportsCar.com>

The Audi R8, into which Audi has incorporated the name and the genes of the five-time Le Mans winner, is a spectacular sports car. Three years after the unveiling of the Audi Le Mans quattro concept car, the production version will be making its debut at the Paris Motor Show in the guise of the new Audi R8 mid-engined sports model. It is a fascinating driving machine and the sporty pinnacle of the Audi brand. The mid-mounted 420 bhp V8 FSI engine, quattro permanent four-wheel drive and Audi Space Frame aluminum body form the basis for truly outstanding driving dynamics. The Audi R8 will be available to order from 28 September 2006; first deliveries will be made in the first half of 2007.

As the first Audi mid-engined sports car, the Audi R8 combines Audi’s experience gained from numerous motorsport triumphs with groundbreaking design and the acknowledged technological expertise of the brand. This expertise has led to the slogan ‘Vorsprung durch Technik’ becoming a byword for leading-edge technology both on the race track and on the road.

Audi R8’s Exterior

Even at first glance, the caliber of the Audi R8 is plain to see. The car sits broad and squat on the road, the strongly accentuated rear end appearing to flex its muscles like a sprinter ready for the off.

The characteristic proportions of the vehicle are dictated by the location of the engine behind the cockpit. This layout is a typical feature of race cars. One of the most striking examples of this design – and as such one of the legitimate antecedents of the Audi R8 – was, and still is, the Auto Union Type C Grand Prix car. The central position of the engine is above all a boon to driving dynamics, as it allows for a weight distribution, as on the R8, of 44 percent to the front and 56 percent to the rear.

The car’s body is highly compact in appearance. The front end and the gently curved roof arc are drawn in a sweeping line; a line which immediately marks the two-seater out as an Audi.

The side view also reveals familiar contours. The dynamic line above the wheel arches and the shoulder line interlink the front end, side and rear, imbue the doors and the transition to the side air vent with a strong presence, and even more emphatically highlight the typical Audi rounded wheel housings accommodating the big wheels.

The cabin of the Audi R8 is pushed far forward – a typical feature of a mid-engined sports car, and as such a visual cue linking it to the race car of the same name. Behind the cabin, positioned in front of the rear axle, is the V8 FSI engine, a sculptured piece of engineering visible both through the large, shield-shaped rear window and from inside the car.

The full aluminum body is constructed in the Audi Space Frame (ASF) design. Its perfect synthesis of minimal weight and maximum rigidity provides the ideal foundation for optimum driving dynamics, as well as delivering an outstanding power-to-weight ratio of just 8.18 pounds per bhp.

The Interior

The sporty interior is dominated by a totally driver-oriented cockpit architecture, integrating the driver between the dashboard and the high centre console. The instrument panel above the console is angled slightly towards the driver. The flat-bottomed steering wheel is a typical feature of the sportiest Audi models, and also enables comfortable sports car entry and exit.

Form follows function: this design principle is implemented throughout the R8. Alongside the driver-oriented architecture, also reflected in the styling of the side window sills, the choice of materials also makes for a highly functional look and feel. Looking around when in the driving seat makes one thing clear: just like in the R8 race car, the styling and placement of all the elements in the cockpit of this driving machine is focused on the essentials. The center point of everything is the driver.

The Drivetrain

Turbine-like power up to the highest rev ranges, a high maximum torque, all combined with a fascinating sound, are the characteristics of a perfect sports car engine. An engine that is fascinating both in terms of its enormous power potential and its suitability for everyday use.

In the high-revving 420 bhp eight-cylinder engine, the evolution of FSI petrol direct injection technology has reached a new high. This technology has also enjoyed many triumphs in the Audi R8 race car.

The figures illustrate the outstanding potential of the eight-cylinder unit. At 7,800 rpm the 4.2-liter engine delivers 420 bhp of power output. Peak torque is 317 lb-ft from 4,500 to 6,000 rpm. And no less than 90 per cent of this maximum torque is maintained consistently throughout a wide engine speed range from 3,500 all the way to 7,600 rpm. As a result of these qualities, the eight-cylinder power unit provides maximum thrust in virtually any driving situation.

The performance figures are equally impressive: the R8 accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds and reaches a top speed of 187 mph.

Two transmissions are available: a manual 6-speed gearbox or optionally the Audi R tronic sequential-shift gearbox. Here, too, the influence of the motorsport world is clearly evident, with a joystick gear-shift on the centre console and, most especially, the paddles mounted on the steering wheel, which are a long-established ergonomic feature in motorsport. The best illustration of this is once again the Le Mans winning Audi R8, which also enables the driver to change gear on the steering wheel.

The Audi R8 is being built on a small-lot production line in a specially constructed new block at the Audi plant in Neckarsulm, Germany.

Have a look at another Audi R8 review and lots more Audi R8 pictures at Left Lane News.

BUT…

What you must do, is to go to the official Audi R8 website and look at this very beautiful car in the equally beautiful Audi microsite for a truly interactive experience.

For all you readers in Singapore, if you’re interested, here’s what the damage on this car will be:

Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro (A)

Audi R8 4.2 FSI Quattro R-tronic (A)

*The above were accurate at time of writing and are subject to change at anytime. Installment figures are based on monthly sum to be paid assuming that you took a loan of 90% of the vehicle’s listed price over a period of 10 years. Interest rates are assumed to be 2.85% p.a.

Wanna see a video? Lucky you…

<Look at some other cool stuff at 33 Rebels>

Drive the above car? Or just have something to say about it? Let other readers know what you think by leaving a comment below!

]]> http://www.33rebels.com/audi-r8/feed/ 4 http://www.33rebels.com/2008-jaguar-xf/ http://www.33rebels.com/2008-jaguar-xf/#comments Mon, 28 Jul 2008 16:50:35 +0000 33Rebels http://www.33rebels.com/2008-jaguar-xf/ 2008 Jaguar XF

I always used to think that only women should drive Jags.

Jags looked soft with smooth and curvy lines, you know, like women… So it kinda just made me think that the Jag was more of a woman’s car.

Then comes this wild cat newly launched from Jaguar. It looks as though a Lexus IS250 and Aston Martin DBS collided with one another and this luxury sports car emerged from the heap looking a little pissed off…

Here are some pics…

Long, low and wide lines with clear, muscular proportions. A very strong Aston Martin-sque grille that creates a very distinctive signature for this luxury sports saloon.

Low nose that sweeps past the sculpted light clusters. Note the side power vents and the large, alloy wheels. Several wheel options are available. These include 18″ and 19″ alloy wheel options from Carelia, Auriga, Venus, Cygnus, Libra and 20″ Selena and Volans wheels standard only on the Supercharged SV8 models.

The 2008 Jaguar XF interior ambience is enriched with crafted, luxurious materials, sophisticated instruments and calm interior mood lighting. Interior includes leather, twin-needle stitching and handcrafted wood veneer next to textured aluminium.

At night, Phosphor blue halo illumination highlights the aluminium coloured faces of the Jaguar XF’s dials and instruments.

At start up, press the pulsing red start button and a whole ballet-like sequence takes place : the JaguarDrive Selector rises softly, the rotating air vents turn quietly from their flush positions to their open positions, the Touch Screen comes to life and the message centre does a system check for the car…

And the heart of this great car… The 2008 Jaguar XF offers 4 great engines: the 2.7 litre V6 turbodiesel, 3.0 litre V6, a 4.2 litre naturally aspirated V8 to the supercharged 4.2 litre V8.

Here are some other pics of this beauty…

Actually, the pictures don’t do justice for this luxurious sports car at all. While the pictures of the 2008 Jaguar XF do make you stop and stare, nothing beats seeing this great car in person. One was parked just outside my office the other day and boy oh boy, was it sweet looking.

For all you readers in Singapore, if you’re interested, here’s what the damage on this car will be:

3.0 V6 Luxury (A)

3.0 V6 Premium Luxury (A)

4.2 V8 Supercharged (A)

*The above were accurate at time of writing and are subject to change at anytime. Installment figures are based on monthly sum to be paid assuming that you took a loan of 90% of the vehicle’s listed price over a period of 10 years. Interest rates are assumed to be 2.85% p.a.

Wanna see a video? Lucky you…

Do have a look at this drool worthy car at the official 2008 Jaguar XF site. There you’ll find loads more pictures, specifications and videos on the Jaguar XF. For detailed reviews, check out:

• Car Pages -- 2008 Jaguar XF Road Test
• Motor Trend -- 2008 Jaguar XF Review
• CarAdvice.com.au -- 2008 Jaguar XF Review
• The Car Connection -- 2008 Jaguar XF Review
• The Truth About Cars -- 2008 Jaguar XF Supercharged Review

<Look at some other cool stuff at 33 Rebels>

Drive the above car? Or just have something to say about it? Let other readers know what you think by leaving a comment below!

]]> http://www.33rebels.com/2008-jaguar-xf/feed/ 4 http://www.33rebels.com/2008-aston-martin-dbs/ http://www.33rebels.com/2008-aston-martin-dbs/#comments Sat, 12 Apr 2008 17:00:08 +0000 33Rebels http://www.33rebels.com/2008-aston-martin-dbs/ 2008 Aston Martin DBS

(Text and images taken from Auto Blog)

For more images, have a look at the awesome image gallery at Auto Blog.

PRESS RELEASE:
Aston Martin Introduces the Ultimate Luxury Sports Car – the DBS

Aston Martin will unveil the most eagerly anticipated car of the year when the new DBS is revealed at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on August 16th, where the company takes a starring role as the featured marque.

Aston Martin Chief Executive Officer, Dr Ulrich Bez, said: “The DBS is the ultimate expression of Aston Martin’s engineering and technical ability. It offers pure performance without compromise.

“The DBS delivers the complete driving experience and bridges the gap between our road and track cars – the DB9 and DBR9.”

Equally at home on a twisting mountain circuit as on the open road, the DBS is a true thoroughbred. The Aston Martin DBS is a 6.0-litre V12 powered, race-bred, two-seater shaped by the aerodynamic demands of high performance, with an exquisite interior that marries beautifully hand-finished materials with the very latest in performance technology.

A combination of elegant design, innovative manufacturing processes, race-derived materials and components and Aston Martin’s unrivalled hand-build expertise makes the DBS a luxury sports car without equal. Every line, crease and curve conveys the enormous potential of the DBS, a seductive blend of refinement and raw power, provided by the hand-built V12 producing 380kW (510bhp/517PS), a top speed of 191mph (302km/h) and a 0-62mph (0-100km/h) time of 4.3 seconds.

The DBS will be built at Aston Martin’s global headquarters at Gaydon, near Warwickshire in the UK, joining the current Aston Martin line-up. This now comprises the elegant DB9, the agile V8 Vantage Coupe and the critically acclaimed Vantage Roadster – launched earlier this year.

Deliveries of the DBS are expected to commence during quarter one 2008, with prices to be confirmed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

Aston Martin DBS Specifications

Body
• Two-door coupe body style with 2+0 seating
• Bonded aluminium VH structure
• Aluminium, magnesium alloy and carbon-fibre composite body
• Extruded aluminium door side-impact beams
• High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps (main beam)
• LED rear lamps and side repeaters

Engine
• All-alloy, quad overhead camshaft, 48-valve, 5935cc V12.
• Compression ratio 10.9:1
• Front-mid mounted engine, rear-wheel drive
• Fully catalysed stainless steel exhaust system with active bypass valves
• Max power: 380kW (510bhp/517 PS) at 6500rpm
• Max torque: 570Nm (420 lb.ft) at 5750rpm
• Acceleration: 0-100km/h (0-62mph) in 4.3 seconds
• Max speed: 302km/h (191mph)

Transmission
• Rear-mid mounted, six-speed manual gearbox
• Alloy torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft
• Limited-slip differential
• Final-drive ratio 3.71:1

Wheels and Tyres
• Front: 8.5” x 20” Pirelli P Zero 245/35
• Rear: 11” x 20” Pirelli P Zero 295/30

Steering
• Rack and pinion, Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering, 3.0 turns lock-to-lock. Column tilt and reach adjustment

Suspension
• Front: Independent double wishbone incorporating anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bare and monotube adaptive dampers
• Rear: Independent double wishbones with anti-squat and anti-lift geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and monotube adaptive dampers
• Adaptive Damping System (ADS) with Track mode

Brakes
• Front: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 398mm diameter with six-piston calipers
• Rear: Ventilated carbon ceramic discs, 360mm diameter with four-piston calipers
• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) with Track mode
• Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
• Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD)
• Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)
• Traction control

Dimensions
Length:
4721mm (185.9”) Wheelbase: 2740mm (107.9”)

Width:
1905mm (75”) (exc. Mirrors)

2060mm (81.1”) (inc. Mirrors) Fuel tank capacity: 78 litres (17.2 Imp.galls, 20.5 US galls)

Height:
1280mm (50.4”) Weight: 1695kg (3737lb)

Interior
Semi-aniline leather and Alcantara interior. Matrix alloy facia trim and Iridium Silver centre console finish. Carbon fibre door trims and door pulls. Auto-dimming rear-view mirror & garage door opener (USA & Canada only). Sports seats with ten-way electric adjustment, including height, tilt and lumbar. Memory seats & exterior mirrors (three positions). Dual-stage driver/passenger front airbags. Side airbags (Sports seats only). Heated seats (Sports seats only). Heated rear screen. Automatic temperature control. Organic Electroluminescent (OEL) displays. Trip computer. Cruise control. Hard Disk Drive (HDD) satellite navigation system1,2. Bluetooth telephone preparation1. Powerfold exterior mirrors. Front and rear parking sensors. Tyre-pressure monitoring1. Alarm and immobiliser. Remote-control central door locking and boot release. Battery disconnect switch. Battery conditioner. Tracking device (UK only). Boot-mounted umbrella.

In-Car Entertainment
• Aston Martin 700W Premium Audio System with Dolby® Pro Logic II®
• MP3 player connectivity

Options
• Lightweight seats with six-way adjustment, including front and rear height adjust (Does not include side airbags or heated seats feature. Not available in USA or Canada)
• 20” alloy wheels with graphite finish
• Satellite radio system (USA only)
• Piano Black facia trim and centre console finish
• Leather storage saddle
• Personalised sill plaques
• Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror1
• Auto-dimming interior rear-view mirror with garage door opener (Europe only)
• Alarm upgrade (volumetric and tilt sensor)
• Tracking device3
• First-aid kit
• Ashtray and cigar lighter

*1 Not available in all markets
*2 Includes Traffic Messaging Channel (TMC) in Continental Europe
*3 Complies with UK Thatcham Category 5 requirements. Excludes subscription. Standard in UK.

Aston Martin DBS: Performance

The need for high-performance stability, handling ability and low kerb weight defined the DBS’s form and construction. Accordingly, the DBS becomes the first production Aston Martin to make extensive use of ultra-light carbon-fibre body panels. High levels of performance and control are delivered by the combination of inherent light weight, near-perfect weight distribution, a supremely powerful and flexible V12 engine, and a performance-honed six-speed transmission, together with new carbon ceramic brakes and an adaptive damper controlled suspension system.

At the heart of the DBS is a 6.0-litre V12 engine. The DBR9 and DBRS9 race cars are powered by an enhanced version of this same V12, tuned to produce in excess of 600bhp. The shared powerplant continues the strong link between Aston Martin’s road and race cars, just as the six-cylinder engine used in the DBR1 also powered the DB4, DB5 and DB6 in the 1950s and 60s.

As with all current Aston Martins, the engine is hand-assembled at Aston Martin’s dedicated engine facility in Cologne, Germany. The classic 6.0-litre V12 features a number of power-increasing enhancements. These include a ‘by-pass’ engine air intake port that opens above 5500rpm to allow more air into the engine, and re-profiled air inlet ports that further improve airflow into the combustion chamber. Combined with a compression ratio of 10.9:1, the result of these enhancements is prodigious power and torque: the DBS delivers 380 kW (510 bhp/517 PS) at 6500 rpm. The 3.71:1 final-drive ratio ensures that the additional power is usable, enhancing in-gear acceleration in particular.

A lightweight, rigid structure is the design engineer’s ultimate goal, and achieving the right balance between strength and mass is crucial. Like the DB9 and its sibling DBR9 and DBRS9 race cars, the DBS uses Aston Martin’s class-leading all-alloy VH (Vertical Horizontal) architecture, a lightweight bonded aluminium structure that provides outstanding strength and rigidity. Aston Martin’s engineers have also employed advanced materials and processes to further reduce weight and increase the DBS’s performance and dynamics.

Carbon-fibre panels are used for the boot enclosure, boot lid, door opening surrounds, front wings and bonnet, giving a saving of some 30kg over more conventional materials without any reduction in strength. “There are no restrictions on form or shape in using carbon-fibre,” says Marek Reichman, Aston Martin’s Design Director, “and the material allowed us to wrap bodywork around the 20″ wheels and maintain the precise relationship between the wheel and the bodywork.”

Each panel has been carefully sculpted to direct the airflow around the car, into the engine and to help cool the braking system. The carbon-fibre elements are produced using advanced manufacturing techniques developed from the aerospace and motorsport industries.

The new panel-making procedure also delivers an industry-best surface finish, thanks to a patented ‘Surface Veil’ process. The application of a 200 micron layer of epoxy and glass to the panel delivers a class-A surface that is in line with Aston Martin’s tradition of high-quality finishes. Inside the car, the weave patterns on the exposed carbon-fibre elements have been carefully selected to present the most harmonious surfaces.

Aston Martin DBS: Control

As with the DB9 and DBR race cars, the Aston Martin DBS benefits from the inherent characteristics of the VH architecture. The VH underframe consists of pressed, extruded and cast aluminium components, bonded together to create an immensely strong underlying structure.

This structure means that weight is kept to a minimum, with the front-mid mounted engine and rear-mid mounted transaxle ensuring a near perfect weight distribution: 85% of the car’s weight is positioned within its wheelbase. The DBS’s polar moment of inertia is therefore very low, producing a car with natural agility, a strong, stable platform for the V12’s high power output and an exhilarating driving experience.

To take full advantage of its extremely precise and rigid platform, the DBS employs a new and sophisticated Adaptive Damping System (ADS) which uses two separate valves to set the dampers to five different positions, allowing instant adjustment of the car’s ride and handling characteristics. The ADS automatically alters the suspension settings to ensure the driver has high levels of control at all times, with the ability to respond instantly to different driving conditions. The dampers can be ’softer’, with a corresponding improvement in ride quality, or ‘firm’, providing improved body control for more spirited driving.

The damper settings are determined by an electronic control unit which takes sensor readings from the car’s systems, including throttle position, brake position, steering wheel rotation and vehicle speed. This data establishes the prevailing driving conditions and the demands the driver is making on the car.

The DBS’s Adaptive Damping System perfectly captures the car’s sporting character, ensuring that stiffer dampers are available for better handling and control when the car is being driven enthusiastically, without compromising ride comfort during ‘normal’ driving conditions. A designated ‘Track’ mode automatically sets all dampers to their firmest positions, making it ideal for circuit driving. The DBS is fitted with Pirelli P-Zero tyres that have been developed especially for the car, along with new 20″ lightweight alloy wheels.

The DBS also has a revised Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, designed to help maintain maximum traction in challenging driving conditions. In default operation, the DSC is automatically on. Select and press the button for two seconds and DSC ‘Track’ mode is engaged, raising the threshold at which the system intervenes to allow the experienced driver to explore the car’s limits. Hold the button for four seconds and DSC is disengaged entirely.

The car’s braking system features another innovation, the first time Carbon Ceramic Matrix (CCM) brakes have been used on a road-going Aston Martin. The end result is shorter stopping distances with excellent resistance to fade in even the most demanding driving conditions. CCM brakes are also some 12.5kg lighter than a conventional system, reducing the weight of the car overall and, in particular, the unsprung weight and rotational masses, further enhancing the performance of the suspension.

Aston Martin DBS: Design

The DBS is manufactured using the finest materials, with a combination of hand-finishing and pioneering high-technology processes. From the exceptional quality of the design and finish to the advanced production techniques employed to save weight and create strength, the DBS is both a technological masterpiece and a powerful visual and tactile experience, inside and out.

The DBS is the culmination of the DB bloodline, a synthesis of race-bred technology and road-going practicality that can be traced back to the iconic DB2, DB3S and DB4GT, and is continued today with the DBR9 and DBRS9 race cars. The DBS’s powerful, flowing form fuses the visual language of the DBR9 GT1 race car with the innate elegance of the DB series. Lower and tauter than other Aston Martin production models, the DBS has subtly flared wheel arches accommodating standard 20″ diameter wheels and tyres. These provide excellent stability and grip, while giving the car a muscular and athletic stance that evokes the DBR9 and DBRS9. The design process involved continuous revision and honing of the DBS’s surfaces, ensuring that the shapes and forms represent perfectly the car’s inherent power, while never diluting the fundamental proportions that are the essence of every Aston Martin.

The external detailing reflects the power and dynamic abilities of the DBS, with revised inlets and enlarged grilles that deliver more air into the engine and increase its cooling capacity. Subtle design details include a new five-bar design for the polished alloy main grille, as well as two additional vents in the enlarged power bulge on the carbon-fibre bonnet. These vents are entirely functional, improving engine performance and efficiency, yet also communicating the increased power output of the uprated V12 engine.

The DBS’s aerodynamic enhancements are shaped by Aston Martin’s racing experience. A carbon-fibre splitter and a new front bumper design help channel airflow around the car’s wider bodywork. The aerodynamics team worked hand in hand with the modelling team to ensure that the forms and surfaces of DBS were sculpted for inherent stability at high speeds.

The widened front and rear track improve handling and give the car a more muscular character. To accommodate this additional width, the surfaces of the wings have been sculpted and re-shaped with harder lines, which also serve to emphasise the car’s strength and power. The lowered ride height is accentuated by the enhanced side sills, carefully profiled to improve aerodynamic performance and reduce drag along the flanks. The iconic Aston Martin side strake, a design feature of every DB car since the DB4, has been redesigned for the DBS, incorporating a side repeater formed by a bank of LEDs.

Improved aerodynamics shape the rear of the DBS, where the more prominent boot spoiler is carefully incorporated into the carbon-fibre boot lid. A horizontal chrome finisher is set into the lid to accentuate the wide track of the new car. The car’s flat undertray helps to improve the aerodynamics of the underbody surface and culminates in a new carbon-fibre rear diffuser, another feature carried over from the race cars. This device creates an area of low pressure beneath the rear of the car, reducing lift and improving high-speed stability without the need for large, unsightly external spoilers. The new one-piece diffuser also incorporates the DBS’s large and distinctive twin exhaust tailpipes.

The interior of the DBS represents the epitome of Aston Martin’s commitment to using materials honestly, without disguise or embellishment. Lightweight materials are used throughout to save weight; door pulls are made from carbon-fibre, for example, and the carpet has been woven with lighter fibres to save valuable kilograms. Special semi-aniline leather is used throughout the cabin, saving weight as well as giving a soft feel and distinctive aroma.

The DBS features unique primary controls, including a new steering wheel profile with a twin-stitched detail marker that indicates the ‘on-centre’ position. The gear knob is fashioned from polished alloy to echo the metallic finishes on the new centre console. The instrument cluster is designed with white numerals on a dark graphite background for excellent legibility. The twin-stitch pattern runs through the interior as a signature device; the alignment of both stitch lines is testament to Aston Martin’s ongoing tradition of exceptional craftsmanship.

As an option the DBS may be equipped with specially developed lightweight seats (outside North America). These feature a carbon-fibre and Kevlar® composite structure and are manufactured by a supplier to the motorsport and aviation industries before being returned to Aston Martin’s Gaydon factory for hand-trimming. The structure is created by sandwiching a layer of Kevlar® between two layers of carbon-fibre with the outer finish left exposed on the seat backs, lacquered to create a durable and attractive finish.

The combination of Kevlar® and carbon-fibre provides crucial weight saving by allowing the structure of the seat to be incredibly slim: between 2.5mm and 3mm. Overall, the trimmed seat provides a weight saving of 20kg. The lightweight seats are a fixed structure, but can be adjusted for rake as well as sliding fore and aft.

The DBS start sequence blends tradition with high technology and a touch of theatre. The ignition ECU (Emotion Control Unit) has evolved into a machined and highly tactile polished sapphire ECU, incorporating a stainless steel inner case. Resembling a fine wristwatch or a piece of contemporary sculptural jewellery, this sapphire ECU epitomises the spirit of the DBS.

To operate the car, the sapphire ECU is inserted into a special docking station in Aston Martin’s signature dashboard-mounted sapphire starter button, and glows red to indicate when the car is ready to start. The engine is fired by pressing the ECU flush with the surface of the starter button. After pressing to stop the engine, the ECU automatically motors out of the dashboard for removal.

The start sequence of the DBS is augmented by an all-new centre console design with a cast metal surround, crisp typography and new graphics. The new console has a traditional dial-face clock at the centre, flanked by two rotary controls for the heating and air-conditioning system, fashioned from solid, turned aluminium.

These controls are also used to navigate the audio system, Bluetooth telephone preparation and satellite navigation functions. The Aston Martin 700 W Audio System, with Dolby® Pro Logic II® has been exclusively developed for Aston Martin to provide outstanding sound quality. A slot for the six-CD autochanger is located at the top of the console, while within the centre armrest cubby box there is inbuilt connectivity for MP3 players. Bluetooth telephone preparation is standard on the DBS, enabling you to synchronise your mobile telephone directory through the car’s display screens. It can also display the last 10 calls received, made and missed.

For all you readers in Singapore, if you’re interested, here’s what the damage on this car will be: The latest listed price is SGD1,015,000. Holy crap…

Here’s a video review by Caradvice.com.au:

<Look at some other cool stuff at 33 Rebels>

Drive the above car? Or just have something to say about it? Let other readers know what you think by leaving a comment below!

]]> http://www.33rebels.com/2008-aston-martin-dbs/feed/ 0 http://www.33rebels.com/hummer-h3/ http://www.33rebels.com/hummer-h3/#comments Fri, 16 Nov 2007 08:21:47 +0000 33Rebels http://www.33rebels.com/hummer-h3/ Yowza… That’s the word that I’ll use to describe the new Hummer H3 from GM.

It looks fantastic doesn’t it? And the good news is, it’s finally here in Singapore.

Saving up for this bad boy… Hmm, having said that, I think I’ll get there in the year 2088…

Here’s the lowdown on this rugged machine…

(Text and pictures all taken from Hummer.)

The Hummer H3

The midsize H3. Proof positive that good things can come in small packages. Even if you are a HUMMER. Of course, to belong to the HUMMER family, you not only have to look the part, you also have to live up to the off-road reputation that the family made famous. We’re proud to say that the H3 does. Fully capable off-road. Totally comfortable on it.

Lineage
It all began with the H1. Arguably the most off-road capable vehicle to hit the market. Then came the H2. A more civilized Hummer that achieved the perfect balance between on-road comfort and off-road capability. Now with the midsize H3, even more people can experience the feeling of exhilaration that comes only when you get behind the wheel of a Hummer.

Details

The H3 is designed to get you through most off-road obstacles unscathed with its fully welded steel frame, 8.5 inches of ground clearance, and full undercarriage protection. The H3 is also particularly adept in water, being able to ford 24 inches at 5mph and 16 inches at 20mph. And a 37 degrees approach angle coupled with a 35.5 degrees departure angle will help you get rid of most of your hang ups. Since the H3 was designed to handle extreme off-road conditions, it stands to reason that it’s surefooted on-road as well, but that didn’t stop our engineers from adding a few “just in case” features. The swing gate is mounted with a full-sized spare, the standard OnStar comes with a 1 year Safe and Sound Service Plan (*only in Canada and US) and remote keyless entry with a panic button provides the driver with a heightened sense of security. Powering the H3 is the Vortec 3700 3.7L engine. It turns out 242 hp and 242 lb.-ft of torque at 4600 rpm with either the 5-speed manual or the available 4-speed manual transmission. Being both high-tech and lightweight, the Vortec 3700 further brings to the H3 a perfect balance between performance and fuel economy (EPA estimated MPG 13 City/18 Highway).

Hummer H3 -- HIGHLIGHTS: INNOVATION

1) BRAKING

4 CHANNEL ANTI-BRAKING

The 4 Channel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), standard on the H3, allows steering control even under extreme braking, without tire “lock up”. The ABS in the H3 also adjusts to changing roads, helping you come to a smooth, controlled stop on almost any surface. For example, after heavy rains, a washboard type pattern can develop on dirt roads. The H3’s ABS is able to recognize this surface and react by preventing the ABS from continually repeating a cycle of applying and depressurizing the brakes.

DYNAMIC REAR BRAKE PROPORTIONING

Another integral part of this intelligent braking system is Dynamic Rear Brake Proportioning. This system modulates rear brake pressure and ensures that braking is balanced between both front and rear brakes. In English, that means the nose of the H3 won’t dive down while braking hard. And in any language, that means your passengers might not even notice what just happened.

STABILITRAK STABILITY ENHANCEMENT SYSTEM

The Stabilitrak Stability Enhancement System, standard on the H3, provides more precise, all-weather control by applying braking forces to help correct oversteer or understeer. This is particularly useful on slick surfaces or during emergency maneuvers, such as swerving to avoid an object in the road.

2) VORTEC 3700

Breathing life into the H3 is the Vortec 3700 5-cylinder engine that generates an impressive 242 lb-ft of low end torque at 4600 rpm and strikes a perfect balance between performance and fuel efficiency. Being both high-tech and lightweight, this “smart engine” is highly durable, making it the perfect choice for the H3.

The Vortec 3700 is available with either a standard, smooth shifting five-speed manual transmission or a Hydra-matic 4L60-E electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. The automatic transmission includes shift modes specific to the low-range operation, which, combined with speed-based throttle progressions, help optimize drivability in low-range off-highway conditions.

3) ONSTAR

Standard for one year on the Hummer is the OnStar system. In an emergency, such as a vehicle collision, your OnStar system can automatically notify your OnStar Advisor and provide your H3’s exact location.

Of if you ever make the mistake of locking your keys in your car, you can call the OnStar Centre and an advisor can send a signal to unlock your doors remotely. And if you ever forget where you park your H3, you can alert OnStar to activate your horn and lights to easily locate your truck.

In the event of theft, OnStar can also attempt to pinpoint your vehicle’s exact location in real time, aiding greatly in vehicle recovery. Of course, OnStar’s success varies with conditions and this service is only available in certain markets.

4) AIRBAGS

All H3s come standard with dual front air bags that feature a Passenger Sensing System. This system decides whether to enable or suppress the front passenger air bags based on the passenger seated weight. The air bag is enabled when the system classifies the occupant as an adult and automatically turns off whenever the seat is unoccupied or if a smaller adult occupies it. In addition, the H3 has a number of child-based safety features like the LATCH system for anchoring child seats in the rear, rear door child locks, and “anti-pitch protection” for the power windows and sunroof.

Another key feature on the H3 are the standard head curtain side air bags with roof line to belt rollover sensors. In the event of a moderate to severe side-impact collision, the head curtain side air bags inflat, providing added head-impact protection for the front and rear passengers sitting next to the doors.

5) FULL TIME 4WD

Powered by an electronically controlled, fully integrated powertrain system, the H3 is a versatile full time 4WD vehicle with full-function traction control.

The powertrain-integrated, 2 speed, electronically controlled, full time 4WD system enables you to go places even the most seasoned SUVs couldn’t dream of. By offering both high and low range, high for on road and low for off road, the H3 gives you more precise throttle control and more horsepower at slower speeds for times when you need it. This, coupled with the full function, single-wheel traction control, allows the H3 to marry matchless off road capability with outstanding fuel efficiency. This is an EPA estimated mpg 14 city/18 highway, which is about 5.9 km per litre (city) or 7.65 km per litre (highway).

Hummer H3 -- HIGHLIGHTS: ON THE OUTSIDE

1) PROTECTION

The H3 boasts underbody protection that runs the entire length of the vehicle beginning with the thick, solid aluminium, front skid plate. This shield helps protect the frame and front suspension components from rock strikes and other hard hits. Also standard are three high-strenth steel skid plates to help protect the oil pan, fuel tank and the transfer case.

An available Undebody Protection Package features two skid plates, providing enhanced protection for the transfer case and the transmission oil pan as well.

Also available is is full-body Rocker Panel Protection designed to help protect the sides of the vehicle from even the meanest off road threats.

2) ICONIC DESIGN

Even at a glance, you immediately know the H3 is a Hummer.

The 7 slot louvered grille, the rectangular windows, the skid plate, the large tires, the low glass-to-steel ratio are all classic Hummer cues.

And like every Hummer before it, many of these styling cues also serve certain functional purposes. But on closer inspection, you’ll also find the H3 has an identity of its own.

3) ACCESSORIES

Choose from a wide range of accessories to customise your Hummer the way you like it. To that end, you can choose from a wide variety of individual accessories, engineered specially for Hummer.

4) OFF ROAD CAPABLE

The Hummer H3’s large tires, wide stance, and short front and rear overhangs combine not only to carve a distinctly Hummer silhouette, but also to provide stability, outstanding ground clearance and enhanced rock climbing ability. The skid plate provides vital underbody protection while off roading. The large tires also enhance traction both on and off road.

Hummer H3 -- HIGHLIGHTS: ON THE INSIDE

1) SEATING

2) INTERIOR

Get behind the wheel of the Hummer H3 and you’ll instantly feel like it was custom designed for you. From the rotary control switches to the individual gauge bezels to the soft touch caps on the control switches, you’ll notice everything is ergonomically organized, easy to use, and accessible.

3) ONSTAR SYSTEM (as described above)

4) STEREO SYSTEM

Of course, the choice of the above stereo systems may not be available in all markets.

Hummer H3 -- DETAILS : SPECS & DIMENSIONS

Hummer H3 -- DETAILS : COLOURS

These are the colours available for the Hummer H3.

Make mine black I say…

Ok, for more information on Hummer, or more specifically the Hummer H3, Hummer accessories and more details and pictures of the the Hummer H3, please visit the official Hummer website.

Or if you prefer, you can go download a copy of their Hummer H3 brochure from here.

If you’re in Singapore and want to own one of these bad boys, go check it out here.

Damn… I want one of these….

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