Jan.22 (GMM) A new AMG high-performance engine is expected to deliver maximum performance in all areas – and the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine driving the new CLS 63 AMG is no exception to this rule. Whether its maximum performance, torque and power delivery, engine sound, suitability for long journeys or renowned Mercedes reliability, the powerful 410 kW (557 hp) eight-cylinder engine is able to meet all of the demands which are made of it. Future challenges also include being able to achieve optimum values when it comes to efficiency too, however. Here again the CLS 63 AMG is setting standards, as evidenced by its fuel consumption of 9.9 litres (2.6 gallons) per 100 kilometres (62 miles) (NEDC combined).


As such the performance Coupé demonstrates how exciting dynamism and low fuel consumption can be combined to impressive effect. This is made possible by a unique combination of innovative high-tech systems such as direct petrol injection, twin turbochargers, air/water intercooling and the stop/start function.
Mercedes-AMG is systematically following the trend towards increasing efficiency with its V8 biturbo engine: with a displacement of 5461 cubic centimetres it is precisely 747 cc below the 6208 cc of the naturally aspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8. Nonetheless it considerably betters it in terms of output and torque. It develops a peak output of 386 kW (525 hp) and maximum torque of 700 Nm. In conjunction with the AMG Performance Package these figures increase to 410 kW (557 hp) and 800 Nm.

Despite an increase in output of 8 kW (11 hp) and 32 kW (43 hp) respectively, and in torque of 70 and 170 Nm compared to the naturally aspirated V8, which develops 378 kW (514 hp) and 630 Nm, AMG engineers have been able to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions considerably. With an NEDC fuel consumption of only 9.9 litres per 100 kilometres, the new CLS 63 AMG betters its predecessor by 4.6 litres. This equates to a fuel saving of more than 32 percent, which engine specialists consider to be nothing less than a quantum leap. CO2 emissions have likewise been significantly reduced: at 231 grams per kilometre, the figure is almost 32 percent lower than for the previous model (345 g/km). Both engine variants achieve identical consumption and emissions values. Thanks to the increased efficiency, it has been possible to reduce the volume of the fuel tank from its previous 80 litres to 66 litres. An 80-litre tank is also optionally available at no extra cost.

The achievement of these efficiency and environmental aims has no negative effects whatsoever on dynamic performance. On the contrary, as the new AMG 5.5‑litre V8 biturbo fully lives up to AMG’s brand commitment to “performance”: the CLS 63 AMG accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, and with the AMG Performance package the Coupé reaches the 100 km/h mark in 4.3 seconds. The top speed of both engine variants is 250 km/h (electronically limited).

Key data at a glance:

	CLS 63 AMG	CLS 63 AMG with AMG Performance package
Cylinder arrangement	V8	V8
Cylinder angle	90°	90°
Valves per cylinder	4	4
Displacement	5461 cc	5461 cc
Bore x stroke	98.0 x 90.5 mm	98.0 x 90.5 mm
Cylinder spacing	106 mm	106 mm
Compression ratio	10.0:1	10.0:1
Output	386 kW (525 hp) at 6800 rpm	410 kW (557 hp) at 5750 rpm
Output per litre	71 kW (96 hp)	75 kW (102 hp)
Max. torque	700 Nm at 1750 – 5000 rpm	800 Nm at 2000 – 4500 rpm
Torque per litre	128 Nm	146 Nm
Maximum engine speed	6400 rpm	6400 rpm
Mean pressure	18.5 bar	20.8 bar
Engine weight (dry)	204 kg	204 kg
Power/weight ratio	0.39 kg/hp	0.36 kg/hp
Fuel consumption NEDC combined	9.9 l/100 km	9.9 l/100 km
CO2 emissions	231 g/km	231 g/km
Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h	4.4 s	4.3 s
Top speed	250 km/h*	250 km/h*

* electronically limited.

Combination of twin turbocharging and direct petrol injection

Mercedes-AMG is presenting an attractive high-tech package with its combination of biturbo charging and direct petrol injection with spray-guided combustion. The innovative injection technology brings decisive advantages with respect to fuel consumption and exhaust emissions, thanks to higher thermodynamic efficiency. Particularly fast and precise piezo-electric injectors spray the fuel into the combustion chambers, ensuring a particularly fine distribution of the fuel droplets into the air in the combustion chamber. The result is highly effective combustion.

An electric low-pressure pump delivers the fuel from the tank to a high-pressure pump in the boot with a pressure of six bar. The fuel pressure in the high-pressure rail is controlled between 100 and 200 bar on a fully variable and demand-related basis.

Two exhaust gas turbochargers and efficient air/water intercooling

Two exhaust gas turbochargers located next to the cylinder banks supply the eight cylinders with fresh air. At their maximum speed of 185,000 rpm under full load, the two turbochargers force 1750 kg of air into the combustion chambers per hour. The maximum charge pressure is 1.0 bar, and 1.3 bar with the AMG Performance package. Thanks to their specific, compact construction – the turbine housings are welded to the exhaust manifold – there are significant space advantages and the catalytic converters also heat up more rapidly.

The AMG V8 is the first turbocharged engine to dispense with the usual blow-off valve. This neat solution enabled the compressor housing to be made extremely compact. To ensure agile responsiveness with no time lag, all the air ducts in the intake tract are as short as possible. The wastegate valve, which reduces the pressure in the exhaust system during negative load changes, is vacuum-controlled via an electropneumatic converter. This allows dethrottling under partial loads, which in turn lowers the fuel consumption.
As was already the case in the AMG 6.0-litre V12 biturbo engine, the new eight-cylinder direct-injection unit uses particularly efficient air/water intercooling. The low-temperature cooler with its water circulation is space-savingly accommodated within the V of the cylinder banks. It effectively cools down the intake air compressed by the turbochargers before it enters the combustion chambers, and maintains a constantly low intake temperature under full load. A large radiator at the car’s front end ensures defined cooling of the water circulating in the low-temperature circuit. This guarantees a high output and torque yield in all ambient temperatures and operating conditions. Extremely short charge air ducting makes for outstanding responsiveness. The stainless steel pressure pipes for the fresh and charge air are produced by the hydroforming process, have a wall thickness of only 0.8 millimetres and are designed for particularly low pressure loss.

Aluminium crankcase with Silitec cylinder liners

The crankcase of the AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine is of diecast aluminium. The low (dry) engine weight of just 204 kilograms is the result of uncom-promising lightweight construction methods, and leads to the car’s very balanced weight distribution. The bearing cover for the main crankshaft bearings is of grey cast iron, and is bolted to the crankcase for high rigidity. Cast-in Silitec cylinder liners ensure that the eight pistons operate with low friction. Drilled ventilation holes in the crankcase lead to a higher output and fuel savings under partial load: above the bearing blocks there are longitudinally drilled holes which connect the crankcase cavities arranged in series. Normally the upward and downward movement of the pistons causes air to be forced into and extracted from the sump, which leads to increased internal friction losses and therefore a reduction in output. The ventilation holes prevent this by ensuring effective pressure compensation between the cavities.
The forged crankshaft of high-grade 38MnS6BY steel alloy rotates in five main bearings, has eight counterweights and has been optimised with respect to torsional rigidity, inertia, low rotating masses and a long operating life. A two-mass viscous damper mounted at the front reliably eliminates vibrations. Each connecting rod journal on the crankshaft carries two forged, cracked connecting rods. In the interests of low mechanical friction and high wear resistance, the lightweight pistons have a metallic contact surface. Pressure-controlled oil-spray nozzles in the crankcase ensure that the highly stressed piston crowns are efficiently cooled.

Four-valve technology with variable camshaft adjustment

Perfect charging of the combustion chambers is ensured by large intake and exhaust valves, of which there are four per cylinder. The exhaust valves, which are subject to high thermal loads, are hollow and sodium-filled. Four overhead camshafts operate the 32 valves via low-maintenance, low-friction cam followers. The infinitely variable camshaft adjustment within a range of 40 degrees on the intake and exhaust sides depends on the engine load and engine speed, leading to outstanding output and torque values. This also results in consistent idling at a low speed. Depending on the engine speed, valve overlap can be varied for the best possible fuel/air supply to the combustion chambers and efficient removal of the exhaust gases. The variable camshaft adjustment is carried out electromagnetically via four pivoting actuators, and is controlled by the engine control unit. The camshafts are driven by three high-performance silent chains, which have considerable advantages in terms of noise comfort compared with cylinder roller chains.

Efficient oil supply and water cooling

Efficient oil delivery under all load and operating conditions is ensured by an oil pump with an electrically controlled compression stage. The oil pressure can be varied between two and four bar, which has advantages in terms of friction and fuel consumption. An extraction stage integrated into the oil pump for the two turbochargers prevents oil from being entrained into the charge air and exhaust gases, thereby helping to reduce emissions even further. Both the sump and the extraction point have been optimised for maximum lateral acceleration and efficient lubrication. The oil capacity is 10.5 litres.

The combined water/oil cooling system is a particularly clever solution: after a cold start, initially the engine oil is only cooled via the oil/water heat exchanger. If the cooling performance of the very compact cooler is insufficient, the flow is additionally directed through the external engine oil/air cooler by an oil thermostat. The advantage of this system is that the engine oil warms up more rapidly, as the engine coolant warms up faster and the oil is later cooled by the coolant. A selectable water thermostat ensures rapid warming of the coolant when starting the engine and driving off.

The engine coolant is cooled using the particularly effective crossflow principle. There is a transverse flow of coolant through both the crankcase and the cylinder heads. Additional cooling slots in the cylinder head ensure more efficient cooling of the combustion chambers, which has advantages during combustion: it enables earlier ignition timings to be chosen without incurring the risk of knocking.

Highly efficient engine electronics for every function

All the engine functions are executed and controlled by a particularly efficient Bosch MED 17.7.3. control unit. This state-of-the-art engine computer not only controls the direct petrol injection, charge pressure, camshaft adjustment and variable oil supply, but also communicates with all of the vehicle’s other onboard control units, such as those of the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission. The microprocessor has more than 30,000 different parameters and functions stored in its memory, and is able to perform up to 260 million individual operations per second. To reduce the load on the engine control unit, the eight individual ignition coils have an integral electronic module – an ignition amplifier – at each cylinder. These ensure a strong ignition spark at all engine speeds and under all load conditions. The highly precise fuel distribution of the piezo-electric injectors is handled by eight high-voltage output stages.

Exhaust system with new catalytic converter housings



Low exhaust emissions, compliance with country-specific standards, a characteristic AMG engine sound and a weight-optimized design – the requirements for the exhaust system of the new AMG 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine were manifold and complex. The CLS 63 AMG complies with all the current EU-5 emission standards, as well as meeting all the requirements of the US market (LEV-II standard, On-Board Diagnosis II and lambda sensor diagnosis).

The turbochargers are welded to the exhaust manifolds, while air gap-insulated manifolds with an inner shell measuring only 1.0 millimetre in thickness ensure a rapid catalytic converter response. For efficiency and to save space, this concept has a tandem catalytic converter housing on each side of the vehicle: adjacent to the firewall, two thin-walled ceramic substrates are grouped into each housing. This solution makes the previous, additional underbody catalytic converters unnecessary. The two ceramic substrates differ to ensure rapid and efficient emissions control: the front one is coated with palladium, while the rear one has a bimetal coating of palladium and rhodium. One lambda sensor per row of cylinders is located in front of each catalytic converter housing, and there is a lambda diagnostic sensor between each of the two thin-walled substrates.

The on-demand lambda control guarantees optimum composition of the fuel/air mixture in all operating conditions, to avoid damaging the catalytic converters. This also benefits the fuel consumption under full load, as the mixture can be leaner than in engines without this control system.

Lightweight AMG sports exhaust system for a characteristic sound signature

The twin-pipe AMG sports exhaust system has a pipe cross-section of 70 milli-metres from the manifolds to the rear silencers. Thanks to a particularly intelligent lightweight design, it has been possible to save 4.3 kg of weight compared with the previous model. The AMG experts achieved this by reducing the wall thickness of all of the exhaust pipes as well as the centre and rear silencers to 1.2 millimetres.

When designing the sound, the aim was to create a perfect synthesis of perceived dynamism and the comfort on long journeys that is the hallmark of a Mercedes. The goal of the developers was to achieve an emotional experience when accelerating and double-declutching, but unobtrusiveness at constant speeds. Unpleasant frequencies or droning noises were effectively eliminated during a series of painstaking tests. The sports exhaust system emits a sonorous eight-cylinder sound that is typical of AMG, while the striking chrome twin tailpipes feature a new design.

Engine production – tradition of hand-built excellence

Like all other AMG engines, the new eight-cylinder biturbo is assembled by hand in the AMG engine shop taken into commission in 2002. Highly-qualified technicians assemble the M157 according to the “one man, one engine” philosophy, maintaining the very strictest quality standards. This painstaking care is attested to by the signature on the characteristic AMG engine plate.

Long tradition of powerful AMG V8 engines

Powerful eight-cylinder engines are an inseparable part of AMG’s corporate history. Established in 1967, the company immediately caused a stir with the 300 SEL 6.8 AMG which succeeded in taking second place at the 24-hour races at Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) in 1971. The AMG racing saloon was technically based on the Mercedes-Benz 300 SEL 6.3. With an engine output of 184 kW (250 hp) at 4000 rpm and a top speed of 220 km/h, this luxury V8 saloon was Germany’s fastest regular production car at the time. Classic tuning as well as an enlarged displacement from 6330 to 6835 cc resulted in an increase in output to 315 kW (428 hp) at 5500 rpm and in torque from 500 to 608 Nm.

A further milestone in the AMG engine story was the M117, the first eight-cylinder unit with four-valve technology. With a displacement of 5.6 litres, 265 kW (360 hp) and 510 Nm of torque, this V8 accelerated the Mercedes-Benz 300 CE 5.6 AMG to a top speed of 303 km/h in 1987. This made the coupé the fastest German car in series production, and American fans reverently christened it “The Hammer”.

Another important engine in the history of AMG was the supercharged AMG 5.5‑litre V8 introduced in 2001: the M113 K developed an output of up to 428 kW (582 hp) and torque of 800 Nm. The supercharged AMG 5.5-litre V8 in the SLR McLaren of 2003 was even more powerful – the M155 developed up to 478 kW (650 hp) and 820 Nm. 2005 saw the debut of the AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine; depending on the model, the naturally aspirated, high-revving M156 developed up to 386 kW (525 hp) and 630 Nm. Exclusively reserved for the SLS AMG, the likewise 6.3-litre M159 has a maximum output of 420 kW (571 hp) and maximum torque of 650 Nm.

Source:emercedesbenz.com

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Jan.20 (GMM) The new BMW X1 xDrive28i is the brand’s first four-cylinder petrol model with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, which comprises High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, a charge system based on the twin-scroll principle, double-VANOS variable camshaft timing and VALVETRONIC variable valve control.

BMW has timed the introduction of this technology package in the new
BMW X1 xDrive28i to coincide with the launch of a new generation of BMW 2.0-litre petrol engines. The new 180 kW/245 hp powerplant combines a power and torque upgrade over the previous engine with substantially reduced fuel consumption and emissions. This twofold improvement is reflected in some impressive performance specifications. The 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time is 6.1 seconds (automatic: 6.5 seconds), an improvement of 0.7 seconds (automatic: 0.3 seconds) over the previous model, which was only available as an automatic. At the same time, average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle has been cut by 16 per cent to 7.9 litres/100 km (35.7 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of 183 grams per kilometre.

The new BMW X1 xDrive28i comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. The standard-fitted BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes – amongst other features – Brake Energy Regeneration, an Optimum Shift Indicator, the Auto Start-Stop function and on-demand control of auxiliary units. An optional eight-speed automatic version is also available. Thanks to its exceptionally high internal efficiency, models with this transmission offer identical fuel consumption and emissions performance to those with the manual version.


As standard specification, the new BMW X1 xDrive28i is equipped with the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, whose electronically controlled multi-plate clutch continuously varies the drive power split between the front and rear axles. The intelligent all-wheel-drive system is integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and responds quickly to the first signs of oversteer or understeer. The result is improved traction in slippery conditions or away from surfaced roads, and improved cornering dynamics. xDrive is calibrated for optimised driving dynamics, which results in precise steering response when cornering. Additionally, the optional Performance Control system can be specified, which matches the drive torque at the rear wheels to driving conditions for even more agile performance.

To add to the agile driving qualities, from spring 2011 the BMW X1 will for the first time be available with an M Sports package. This option, which is available ex works for all engine versions, comprises a range of suspension, exterior and interior components which have been developed specifically for this compact BMW X model.

The engine: new benchmark in efficiency and dynamism.

BMW X models offer their own distinctive interpretation of typical BMW driving pleasure. The BMW X1 xDrive28i combines this special driving experience with efficiency that is unrivalled in this power class. As a result, this new BMW X1 model offers sporty power delivery of a kind that was previously confined to six-cylinder engines – but combines it with outstanding fuel consumption and emissions performance.

It’s all down to the latest-generation 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine, which sets new standards with its various innovative technologies. The BMW X1 xDrive28i’s powerplant achieves the twofold goal of BMW EfficientDynamics in impressive style: it continuously raises the bar on driving pleasure, while at the same time reducing fuel consumption and emissions. With a displacement of 1,997 cc and world-exclusive BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, incorporating twin-scroll turbocharging, High Precision Injection, double-VANOS and VALVETRONIC, it delivers maximum power of 180 kW/245 hp at 5,000 rpm – 55 kW more than the previous top-powered BMW 2.0-litre petrol engine.

Debut: first application of BMW TwinPower Turbo in a four-cylinder engine.

BMW TwinPower Turbo technology gives the new four-cylinder engine
the sort of power which naturally aspirated engines can only achieve through more cylinders and substantially larger displacement. The four-cylinder engine with its all-aluminium crankcase, including a motor sport-derived bedplate, is lighter and more compact than a six-cylinder engine of equivalent power. This has direct benefits for the efficiency of the BMW X1 xDrive28i and also, thanks to the reduced front axle load, for agility.

The new engine offers more torque, too, than the previous naturally aspirated engines. Rated torque of 350 Newton metres, which comes on stream at just 1,250 rpm, ensures very good low-end response. The vigorous power delivery, from only slightly above idling, is a very seductive feature of this new engine, and the power climbs steadily all the way to the upper area of the load range. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i has a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 6.1 seconds (6.5 seconds with automatic transmission). These times are an improvement of 0.7 seconds and 0.3 seconds respectively on those for the previous model with six-speed automatic transmission. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i hits a top speed of 240 km/h (149 mph).

The turbocharger is a twin-scroll system. The exhaust streams leaving the two pairs of cylinders are kept completely separate as they flow through the exhaust manifold and the turbocharger, taking a spiral path to the turbine wheel. This configuration results in very low exhaust back pressure at low engine rpm, and allows the energy of the exhaust gas pulses to be optimally managed and translated into powerful rotation of the turbine blades, without a response delay. The result is instant throttle reaction and typical BMW fast-revving performance.

More dynamic performance plus reduced emissions, thanks to VALVETRONIC, double-VANOS and direct injection.

The fully cylinder head-integrated VALVETRONIC variable valve control system, and the double-VANOS variable intake and exhaust camshaft timing, have a further positive impact on power development. The BMW X1 xDrive28i engine features assembled intake and exhaust camshafts and a latest-generation VALVETRONIC system which is even faster-acting thanks to an optimised stepper motor with integrated sensor.

The patented BMW VALVETRONIC system with seamlessly variable intake valve lift control dispenses with the throttle valve system typical of earlier engine generations. Instead, combustion air mass is controlled inside the engine, resulting in much faster response. Pumping losses are kept to a minimum, so making the engine more efficient.

The new engine’s unusually high efficiency, for a turbocharged unit, is also down to the High Precision Injection petrol direct-injection system. Centrally positioned between the valves, solenoid injectors with a maximum injection pressure of 200 bar precisely control the supply of fuel. The fuel is injected very close to the spark plug, resulting in clean and homogeneous combustion. The cooling effect of the injected fuel also results in a higher compression ratio than on turbocharged naturally aspirated engines. This results in further efficiency improvements.

The efficiency theme continues with a computer-controlled oil pump and an on-demand electric coolant pump. Also, the new BMW X1 xDrive28i is specified as standard with a six-speed manual transmission with Auto Start-Stop function. This system automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle stops at crossroads or is sitting in stationary traffic in order to prevent unnecessary idling and wasteful use of fuel.

The new engine technology and extensive, standard-fitted
BMW EfficientDynamics features achieve an exceptionally good balance between performance and fuel consumption. The new BMW X1 xDrive28i has average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.9 litres /100 km (35.7 mpg imp), a 16 per cent improvement on the previous model. CO2 emissions are rated at 183 grams per km.

Features based on award-winning six-in-line engine result in new efficiency benchmark.

A number of key design features of the new engine are based on the latest-generation BMW six-in-line engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. This 225 kW/306 hp unit, fitted in models such as the new BMW X3 xDrive35i, is internationally regarded as a benchmark in dynamic performance and impressive efficiency.

Amongst other tributes, these special qualities earned the six-cylinder engine the Engine of the Year Award 2010. No other 3.0-litre engine offers anything like such a good balance between driving pleasure and fuel economy. And now, the engine of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i has achieved a similar benchmark position in the 2.0-litre engine class.

Optional eight-speed automatic transmission – greater driving comfort with no increase in fuel consumption over manual transmission.

The BMW X1 xDrive28i is equipped as standard with a six-speed manual transmission. Optionally, the power can be managed by an eight-speed automatic transmission. Innovative gear train design makes this transmission comparable in size and weight to the previous six-speed automatic transmissions. The additional ratios provide an appreciable improvement in driving comfort, sporty performance and efficiency. Also optional are a sports leather steering wheel and an M leather steering wheel, which both come with shift paddles which allow the driver to operate the transmission manually yet still keep both hands on the wheel. In typical M style, the right-hand paddle is used for changing up and the left-hand paddle for changing down.

Further features of the eight-speed automatic are short shift times, minimal torque converter slip, which only occurs at launch, reduced friction losses, since no more than two clutches are ever open at once, and a wide ratio spread, which has benefits both for sprinting performance and for low-rpm cruising. The result is very dynamic acceleration, smooth gear changes and at the same time a further reduction in fuel consumption. On the new BMW X1 xDrive28i, this means that models with automatic transmission offer identical fuel consumption and emissions performance to the manual version.

The BMW X1: best-in-segment agility, thanks to BMW xDrive.

A variable drive power split between the front and rear wheels, courtesy of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i’s standard-fitted BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system, results in improved agility – and confident traction away from unsurfaced roads. Via a transfer case with electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, xDrive finely controls the drive power in line with changing conditions, always sending the right amount of power to the axle whose wheels have
the best grip.

The permanent all-wheel-drive system is integrated with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and with the engine management. Wheel slip is detected at the very first signs by sensors at the wheels. The system then responds with split-second speed by varying the drive split to efficiently correct under- and oversteer at the earliest possible stage. During cornering, more drive power is sent to the rear axle to improve manoeuvrability and prevent understeer. The DSC system includes integral ABS, Dynamic Brake Control (DBC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and also Dynamic Traction Control (DTC). DTC raises the stability control response thresholds, making it easier to move off on snow or sand. Amongst other features, the DSC system also includes a Brake Drying function – for wet-weather driving – and Fading Compensation.

Either as a stand-alone option, or in conjunction with the likewise optional sports suspension, Performance Control applies precisely controlled braking pulses, with torque compensation, as an efficient corrective measure at the very first signs of understeer on slippery surfaces and under very dynamic cornering.

Maximum agility and all-round safety through state-of-the-art suspension technology and robust body structure.

The agile, precise, confident handling of the BMW X1 xDrive28i is a direct result of its high-performance suspension technology and a very robust body structure. The double-joint spring-strut thrust bar axle at the front and the five-arm rear axle provide an optimal combination of ride quality and sporty handling. The hydraulic rack-and-pinion steering system comes with precise power assistance.

In part, the BMW X1 owes its extreme torsional rigidity to intelligent use of high-tensile and ultra-high-tensile steels. Material choices, and the positioning and geometry of struts, braces and other supporting members, are designed for maximum crashworthiness, while also optimising weight and agility. Front and side airbags along with side curtain head airbags for the front and rear rows of seats are standard specification. Three-point inertia-reel belts are standard on all seats, with belt force limiters and belt latch tensioners at the front.

The BMW X1’s standard twin round headlights also feature daytime running lights. The optional bi-xenon headlights incorporate sidelights and daytime running lights. They are combined at the rear with LED fibre optic technology which makes the L-shape of the tail-light clusters stand out even more strikingly. Further options for the BMW X1 include High-Beam Assistant, a rain sensor and Adaptive Headlights, which swivel in line with the steering angle.

Confident styling, state-of-the-art interior functionality.

The BMW X1 delivers unfiltered driving pleasure, all-round sporty performance and extreme agility both in urban traffic and out of town. The styling is marked by confident elegance, upscale functionality and trendsetting modernity. The unique vehicle concept combines typical BMW driving pleasure with a level of interior adaptability which is quite unusual for the compact segment and will appeal to customers with an active and varied lifestyle. Both the versatility and the sporty, agile driving qualities are closely echoed in the body styling, with its seamless transitions between front, sides and rear, and well-defined lines which create fluent connections between the different elements of the body.

The five-door X1 measures 4.45 metres (175″) in length, but despite the smaller dimensions compared with the BMW X6, BMW X5 and BMW X3, it is clearly identifiable as a BMW X model from every angle. Square-contoured wheel arches, increased ground clearance, narrow guard strips along the lower edges of the body and the upright BMW kidney grille all point to robust design. The long bonnet, short front overhang, a long wheelbase of 2.76 metres (108.6″) and the steeply sloping rear windscreen accentuate the sense of length and confirm the sporty credentials of the BMW X1.

The higher seating position and driver-centric cockpit design add to the intense driving experience. This layout also provides convenient entry and gives the driver a commanding view of the road. High-quality materials and striking surface textures, plus iDrive for models equipped with an optional navigation system, all reflect the premium-class quality of the BMW X1. Expressive graphic elements, extensive trim panelling and dynamic styling create a sporty, youthful aura in the BMW X1. Horizontal lines give the instrument panel a layered look which continues into the door trim, accentuating the width of the instrument panel as well as the general sense of spaciousness. The centre control styling creates a clear demarcation between the driver’s and front passenger’s areas.

The rear offers three full-size seats. One or more sections of the 40:20:40 split-folding rear seatback can be lowered to increase luggage capacity from 420 right up to 1,350 litres (14.8 to 47.6 cu. ft). At the detail level, functionality is further enhanced by a wide range of trays, cupholders and stowage compartments.

Practical, innovative, high-quality optional equipment.

The everyday practicality, driving pleasure and comfortable touring qualities which are hallmarks of the BMW X1 can be expanded even further by a range of top-quality optional equipment features. Roof rails, a storage compartment package and a tow bar with removable ball head provide additional transport capacity. Interior customisation options include sports seats, seat heating, an interior lights package and the large panorama glass roof. The powerful and efficient automatic climate control system offers a choice of five different climate control modes and maintains a pleasant temperature inside the vehicle at all times of year and in all weather conditions. The standard-fitted audio system includes six speakers, a CD drive and an AUX-IN connection for external audio devices. Optionally, MP3 players and other data or music storage devices can be integrated in the in-car entertainment system via a USB interface.

BMW X1 models equipped with the Business or Professional navigation system also feature the new-generation iDrive operating system with centre console-mounted Controller and direct selection buttons, functional bookmark buttons below the climate control panel and a 6.5- or 8.8-inch Control Display. A wide range of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive are also available. To supplement the optional sensor-equipped Park Distance Control system, a further manoeuvring aid can be specified – the optional rear-view camera. BMW ConnectedDrive also offers in-car internet access and innovative solutions for the integration of smartphones and external music players.

The optional apps from BMW ConnectedDrive offer an attractive extension of the range of infotainment features in the BMW X1 as well. With this special option Apple iPhone users can download free software from the Apple App Store that allows them to select internet radio stations from around the world using the iDrive system or to have the latest posts from their personal Facebook or Twitter account shown on the car’s Control Display. In addition, the online services allow standardised messages to be sent from the car. Additional apps and functions are set to follow in the future.

Debut: M Sports package for the BMW X1.

Simultaneously with the market launch of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i in spring 2011, an M Sports package will make its debut in this series. It will be available for all engine versions of the compact BMW X model and comprises suspension, exterior and interior components specially developed for this model. These features further enhance the vehicle’s sporty and agile driving qualities and give them a distinctive visual dimension as well. They include sports suspension calibration and 17-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels for even sharper driving dynamics. Alternatively, the M Sports package can be supplied with 18-inch double-spoke M alloy wheels.

The M Sports package for the BMW X1 also features an M Aerodynamics package, door sills with the “M” logo and BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line trim for the side window surrounds and roof rails. Also available in conjunction with the M Sports package are the metallic exterior paint colours Alpine White, Le Mans Blue, Sapphire Black, Space Grey, Vermillion Red and Mineral White.

Sports seats upholstered in cloth/alcantara, an M leather-trimmed steering wheel with multifunction buttons and an M footrest for the driver add to the driving pleasure when the BMW X1 is equipped with the M Sports package. The high-end sporty theme is capped off by a BMW Individual roof liner in Anthracite, dark cross-brushed aluminium interior trim, the M gearshift lever for vehicles with six-speed manual transmission and a leather handbrake lever gaiter.

Source: BMW

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Jan.17 (GMM) As a sedan, the 3rd generation Alfa Romeo Giulietta for the 2011 model year is a fantastic ride for a sedan that lives up to the Alfa Romeo

name. A front-wheel drive model, the dynamics of the new Giulietta are superb as well as the interior features and standard equipment offered. Fans of Alfa Romeo and followers of the Giulietta may be looking for a new facelift and redesign, but they’ll have to wait a few years longer, as the next overhaul isn’t due until the 2014 model year.

Specifications

• Pricing: Base price of just under $28,000
• Engine: Five engine choices including a 1.4-liter or turbo that puts out 120 or 170 horsepower as well as two diesel options.
• Transmission: The Giulietta features an all-new 6-speed three-shaft gearbox.

Exterior Features

The 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta’s wheelbase is 8.6 feet sporting light lines and a sleek, distinctly European exterior styling. The well-known Alfa Romeo trident adorns the front above the distinctive triangular grille. Buyers will be able to choose between a comfort or sport chassis and each will have a few different trim levels and powertrain options. The LED headlight and taillight accents are stylishly and uniquely designed.

Interior Features

The new Giulietta offers plenty of space in its well-accented interior, with luxury features like leather seating, Bluetooth and hard-drive based navigation aplenty to make for a more enjoyable experience. Tilt and telescoping steering wheel and heated front seats for both driver and passenger are additional touches that it may be difficult to find on other sedans in the same class and price range without paying a hefty premium. The interior cabin is incredibly quiet, at highway speeds indicating the car’s precise and well-fitted design.

Performance

The new Alfa Romeo Giulietta offers a surprisingly comfortable ride, which, for those used to the harsher, but more precise handling of an Alfa Romeo may come as something of a surprise. A DNA dynamic mode makes for a sportier ride, but the 2012 Giulietta still feels like a comfortable family sedan.

Competition for the 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Competition for the 2011 Alfa Romeo Giulietta includes:

• Ford Focus
• Hyundai Elantra
• Honda Accord

The Ford Focus is less expensive and it shows through and through, though, however Ford’s innovative Sync system and the fuel economy are significant plusses for this American classic. Both the Hyundai Elantra and the Honda Accord offer superior quality and reputation for reliability all around.

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Jan.17 (GMM) The new Mercedes CLS 63 AMG is a case in peak. It gets a modified engine and transmission, a new front axle, significantly modified suspension and steering structure as well a exclusive damping system.

Wide-ranging styling modifications interior and out is exactly the icing on a seriously re-engineered cake. And AMG engineers have put over one million test kilometers into both the engine and the finished car.

It gets the company’s new M157 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8 engine which swap AMG’s old 6.3-litre naturally-aspirated V8. The M157 is more dominant, torquier and an amazing 32 per cent more inexpensive than the outgoing engine. AMG has also developed its own ‘Speedshift MCT’ 7-speed transmission, which ditches a conventional - and laggy - torque converter for a much more direct-feeling ‘wet start-up clutch’ which runs in a oil bath.

And other most significant feature of the CLS 63 AMG’s development lies in the huge efforts that the company has put into the new electromechanical steering system. The 14:1 ratio is 22 percent quicker than the standard CLS, its said to be very rigidly mounted and its control unit takes information from a wide range of sensors (including lateral acceleration and under and oversteer characteristics) to calculate the forces it feeds back to the wheel rim. CLS 63’s steering response that strikes the driver as the car creeps away from standstill. At low speeds there’s a sense of uncanny, sharp-edged, precision humming through the wheel’s rim.
That surprising impression continues as you drive along. While not uncomfortable, the AMG’s chassis telegraphs an amazing amount of information about the road surface to the seat and wheel. There’s a strong feeling of an almost unbushed connection with the road, but this mix doesn’t seem to be especially nervous or wearing over distances.
But it was on the winding mountain roads on the US/Mexican border that the CLS 63 really revealed its talents as a scalpel-sharp tool. Firstly, it is quite ridiculously easy place the front inside wheel on the very ragged edge of the road, allowing more confidence in swift progress. The driver gets a super-accurate sense of the position of the front wheels and the amazingly rigid front end means the AMG is exceptionally keen on turn-in. It pulls itself into and around corners with a surprising degree of aggression, creating very high lateral forces very quickly, which can be hard on your passenger.

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New Skoda's Fabia has launched its most modern special edition Fabia

Monte Carlo based on the Fabia SE and created to celebrate 100 years of the Monte Carlo Rally and 110 years of Skoda’s participation in motorsport, the special edition features piano-black body trim, black roof, door mirrors and radiator grille, smoked headlights and black 17-inch lightweight alloy wheels. Internal touches include either black or red and black sports seats and red-stitched leather steering wheel, handbrake and gearstick gaiter.

Five engine variants are available – three 1.2-litre units with various power outputs and two 1.6-litre TDI options.

Prices for the entry-level 1.2-litre version with 68bhp start from £12,755, rising to £14,030 for the most powerful 1.2-litre 104bhp TSI. Prices for the diesel versions start at £14,185 with the top of the range TDI CR 104bhp model costing from £15,000.

The new Fabia Monte Carlo is set to make its first public appearance at Rallye Monte Carlo, which runs from 19-22 January.

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