Vauxhall Motors launches ADAM Black and ADAM White Limited Editions

Vauxhall Motors has launched a limited edition of 250 ADAMs creating even more levels of personalisation for the urban chic city car.  The ADAM Black Edition and ADAM White Edition take their design cues from a smartphone, encompassing optimal connectivity and a sleek and stylish feel.

The Vauxhall ADAM is the best connected small car in its segment and the new ADAM Black Edition and ADAM White Edition come with Vauxhall’s IntelliLink infotainment system and Siri Eyes Free voice control fitted as standard.  They reflect typical smartphone looks in black or white, with accents in brushed aluminium effect.

“The ADAM Black Edition and ADAM White Edition models resemble sophisticated smartphones on wheels,” says Duncan Aldred, Chairman and Managing Director, Vauxhall Motors.  “The ADAM combines innovative technologies with countless personalisation possibilities which are not available in its segment.  With these new models, our urban chic city car once again shows that it is the best connected small car and a true individualisation champion all wrapped up in one.”

ADAM drivers who have an iOS 6 – or later – compatible iPhone can comfortably and safely activate the Siri Eyes Free function via steering wheel controls and operate it with voice commands while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road.

Ultra-modern technology and design is mirrored in the looks of the special ADAM Black Edition and ADAM White Edition models. The ADAM comes in ‘I’ll be Black’ metallic paint or ‘Saturday White Fever’ brilliant paint exterior colours. The rest of the exterior carries a brushed, aluminum-look including the side mirror housings, and grille bar carrying the Vauxhall logo.  In addition, there are tinted rear windows and 18-inch wheels in a Twister design with matching brushed aluminium finish wheel clips. The black or white lacquered standard roof spoiler, as well as the characteristically shaped headlamps with LED daytime running lights and LED rear lights ensure the car stand-outs amongst its rivals. The sport chassis provides plenty of driving fun with its direct response and sports pedals.

Inside the cabin, the seats, instruments and applications continue the exterior colour scheme. In the ADAM Black Edition, all occupants enjoy the comfort of Ocio Black Morrocana seat trim cushions. While the centre console and instrument panel are piano black, the door trims, glove box, leather gear knob and handbrake handle are in contrasting bright white. The counterpart to this is the ADAM White Edition version, with its own colour scheme: the seats are Ocio White Morrocana also mirrored in the instrument panel and centre console.

The ADAM Black Edition and ADAM White Edition is priced at £14,995 (1.4 87PS), available across the UK.  For further information please visit http://www.vauxhall.co.uk/vehicles/vauxhall-range/cars/adam/black-and-white/adam-white-black-edition.html

Mercedes reveals watch that talks to your car.

Mercedes-Benz has revealed a smart watch that can communicate with the German manufacturer’s models and display information such as the car’s fuel level, location and whether the doors are locked.

The device, created by Pebble Technology, is part of a new technical tie-up forged by Mercedes and the Silicon Valley-based company in the lead-up to the International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas next week.

Pebble’s smart watch works with Mercedes-Benz’s existing Digital DriveStyle app and effectively becomes a ‘second screen’ for a smart phone. When the driver is away from the car, a host of diagnostic information can be called up, while in the car, the smart watch can be configured to vibrate to alert its driver to potential hazards such as accidents, road works and other obstructions.

Users can customise the smart watch buttons to activate Digital DriveStyle features like reporting hazards, auto-routing, Siri activation, remote-controlling media, or quickly showing nearby traffic conditions.

Pebble Technology was established via the Kickstarter crowd-funding initiative. It's smart watch retails in the United States for $150 (about £100).

The partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Pebble Technology will give the German car maker early access to technology that could pave the way for its future vehicles to become fully integrated with other devices such as watches, laptops and phones.

REPORT HERE

USA - Chevy announces new models added to the Sonic range.

Chevrolet has announced two new sedan options to the Sonic lineup in 2014 – the performance-inspired RS and the stylish Dusk – further demonstrating the brand’s commitment to the subcompact segment and to offering younger buyers expressive options at affordable prices.

The suggested retail price for the 2014 Sonic RS sedan starts at $20,530 including $825 destination. Sonic Dusk starts at $20,945 including destination. Title and license fees are extra.

“Keeping the Sonic lineup fresh and offering consumers more choice is a priority for Chevrolet,” said Cristi Landy, marketing director for Chevrolet small cars.  “The Sonic RS and Dusk sedans offer all of the great attributes that have made the Sonic a popular choice in the subcompact segment and they add performance and design cues.”

Sonic RS sedan
The performance-inspired Sonic RS sedan joins the RS hatchback in the lineup and is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbo engine rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and 148 lb-ft of torque (200 Nm). Unique transmission gearing in the six-speed manual, or a 3.53 final drive ratio for automatic-equipped models, along with a sport-tuned suspension and lowered ride height, enhances the car’s performance feel.

One of the most dramatic Sonic RS cues is its front fascia, which has a deep air dam design that enhances the car’s road-hugging stance. Vertical intakes at the edges of the fascia reinforce a wide, low proportion and house the fog lamps.  Interior refinements include:

• Aluminum sport pedals
• A sport three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel with contrasting stitching, and a racing-inspired flat-bottom design
• Leather-appointed front bucket seats with red RS accents to the sportier appearance.
• EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are the same as the Sonic RS hatchback – 27 mpg city and 34 mpg highway with the manual transmission.

The Sonic RS sedan will initially be available in three color combinations: Black Granite Metallic, Silver Ice Metallic or Summit White, all with Jet Black leather-appointed interiors.

Sonic Dusk
The Sonic Dusk sedan, first shown as a concept at the 2011 SEMA Show, brings sophistication and style to the subcompact market. Unique exterior appointments include a ground effects package, rear spoiler, 18-inch aluminum wheels with a Midnight Silver matte finish and four-wheel disc brakes – unique to Dusk and RS.

The Sonic Dusk comes exclusively in Ashen Grey Metallic, with a distinctive matte appearance on the upper and lower grilles, door handle inserts and rear license plate trim. Stainless steel lower window moldings add an upscale accent to the body. Inside are Jet Black leather-trimmed seats with sueded microfiber accents and Mojave tan inserts.

Sonic Dusk is powered by the Ecotec 1.4L turbocharged engine, rated at 138 horsepower (103 kW) and matched with six-speed manual and automatic transmissions. EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings are 29 mpg city and 40 mpg highway, with the manual transmission.

Also new in 2014, Chevrolet is introducing performance parts that enhance Sonic’s handling, braking and performance. The Chevrolet Performance parts include

• 1.4L Turbo Stage Kit with high-flow exhaust boosting the car up 10 horsepower and 15 lb-ft of torque
• Cold-air induction
• Suspension kit with lowered ride height
• Brake package with Wilwood front calipers
• 18-inch wheel-and-tire package. 
• These parts join appearance accessories announced in 2013.

Both models go on sale in spring 2014 and will be manufactured at Orion Assembly in Michigan. Sonic is the only subcompact assembled in America.

The Chevrolet Sonic and Spark are the first vehicles to offer Siri Eyes Free integration. Through the cars' available Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, customers with a compatible iPhone* running iOS6 or iOS7 can direct Siri to perform a number of tasks while they safely keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.

Also, the available BringGo navigation app, the most affordable navigation system in its class, offers easy-to-use features that included 3-D maps with lane suggestions, live traffic data, and more.

LEXUS #4 - 2014 ES range gets upgrades to cement its position as the car to own.

• New integrated Siri® Eyes-Free technology
• Standard 268-hp V6
• Available flagship-style amenities

The Lexus ES sedan line has a history of reshaping the entry-luxury segment, and the sixth-generation ES models introduced for 2013 raised the benchmark again, with increased interior room, a new hybrid, higher fuel efficiency in the V6 model and even more flagship-type amenities.

While the ES 300h hybrid has understandably taken the efficiency spotlight with its 40-mpg combined EPA fuel economy estimates, the ES 350, with a 268-horsepower V6, remains the sales leader in the line and is itself highly efficient, with a 31-mpg EPA highway fuel economy rating.

New for 2014, the ES 350 gains LED fog lamps and adds the availability of bamboo interior trim, which was already offered in the ES 300h. In addition, customers who do not prefer leather can now get heated/ventilated seats in perforated NuLuxe trim. Genuine leather-trim is available, as is semi-aniline leather for a more refined look and feel.

Long a leader in user technology that’s easy to use, Lexus has integrated Sirii® Eyes Free Mode, with technology licensed from Apple®, in the 2014 ES 350. Compatible with the iPhone® 4S and iPhone 5 models forward, Siri lets you call contacts, select and play music from iTunes®, get turn-by-turn navigation through Siri and Apple maps, and much more. To help you keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, Siri can read notifications, read calendar information and allow you to add reminders, calendar appointments and notes.

The Car That Reshaped Its Category
The original ES sedan upended the entry luxury category nearly 25 years ago by making a V6 standard in a segment populated by four-cylinder models, and by offering more interior room and more standard luxury amenities. Lexus continues to set the trend in the entry-luxury segment by virtue of a unique two-model sedan strategy: The front-wheel drive ES models emphasize roominess and comfort, and the sport-minded IS models, which are built on a different platform, offer a choice between rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. In contrast, other brands try to mold one model series to fit both roles.

The ES 350 offers an unmistakable look in the class, thanks in large part to the brand’s distinctive spindle grille design flanked by L-themed LED daytime running lights. The roof sweeps back for a coupe-like stance, and the taillights repeat the L motif. The shape cheats the wind with a low 0.27 coefficient of drag (Cd), which helps fuel efficiency while minimizing wind noise.

This generation ES 350 design also fools the eye, offering more interior space in a sleeker package. The 1.8-inch stretch in wheelbase over the previous generation yielded a 4.1-inch gain in rear seat legroom, which now stretches to 40 inches (on par with larger sedans) and a 2.8-inch increase in knee room.
Even with the sleeker roofline, this generation ES 350 offers nearly an inch more rear seat headroom than the previous generation.  Rear passengers also get more foot space below the front seats.

Lexus filled the larger space with comfort, features and design details that belie the “entry luxury” label. The ES 350 comes standard with 10-way adjustable power front seats, automatic climate control, NuLuxe interior available in parchment, light gray or black and elegant piano black trim for instrument panel, doors and upper console. Lexus offers espresso bird’s eye maple for the trim or, new for 2014, bamboo. Also available, 12-way heated/ventilated power front seats allow the seat cushions to extend by 1.4 inches for added leg support.

Several options take luxury to an even higher level, including the optional Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) that helps detect vehicles in side blind spots and alerts the driver to rear cross traffic when backing out of a parking spot. Also available are Premium and Luxury packages, and bringing flagship-style luxury to the ES 350, the Ultra Luxury Package.

Lexus has been on the forefront of optimal ergonomics, a brand strength that’s helped to make multi-media system controls easy to operate. The ES 350 cockpit is divided into separate “display” and “operation” zones to help the driver remain focused on the road. Large, clear Optitron® gauges, a Lexus mainstay, are supplemented by a 3.5-inch color TFT multi-information display screen that puts vital information directly in the driver’s line of sight.

Lexus designed the ES 350’s controls to help reduce both driver body movement and eye movement.  The ES 350’s available second-generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI) is designed to provide access to many vehicle functions while helping to reduce driver movement. Using the system controller on the center console, the driver can intuitively operate the climate control, audio system, phone, optional navigation system and more, which helps the driver with paying attention to the road.  Menus display in the 3.5-inch instrument panel screen or larger center-dashboard screens that come with audio and navigation options.

Premium Quiet, Premium Sound
The ultra-quiet cabins of Lexus vehicles have provided ideal settings for the high-quality premium audio the brand has always offered. The standard Lexus Premium Sound System in the 2014 ES exemplifies the brand’s expertise in mobile audio performance. The eight-speaker system plays from a variety of sources, including the in-dash CD player, USB/iPod® connectivity, and an integrated SiriusXM® Satellite Radio receiver with a 90-day trial subscription. Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) adjusts system volume in response to ambient noise.

The first level upgrade is the Display Audio package, which adds a seven-inch screen, HD Radio™ with iTunes® tagging, Bluetooth® audio, phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and a rear backup camera.

The pinnacle of audio performance in any new Lexus comes from the availability of industry-exclusive Mark Levinson® premium sound systems. Audiophiles recognize the brand for high-end home equipment. The 2014 ES 350’s optional 15-speaker, 835-watt audio system is a sonic knockout. This system features an eight-inch display screen, HD Radio with iTunes tagging, DVD audio/video and a SiriusXM Satellite Radio receiver. Exclusive GreenEdge technology doubles amplifier output while reducing its energy consumption by 50 percent. The reduced electrical load on the car contributes to better fuel efficiency.

Lexus Enform®Helps Keep You Connected
Lexus has expanded connectivity in its vehicles while helping to reduce driver distraction. The foundation of this capability, Lexus Enform, can make a compatible Bluetooth smartphone even smarter. The available Enform service, with Destination Assist, eDestination, and App Suite, comes with the Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Package.  Lexus Enform provides access to the subscription-free App Suite.  These voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing™, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com™, listen to Internet radio, including , Pandora®, and  iHeartRadio™, search business reviews on Yelp®, and check in on  Facebook Places™.

The ES 350’s telematics system, Lexus Enformwith Safety Connect® is available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are available on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.
Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM services including NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, Stocks and Fuel Prices. SiriusXM services offer complimentary one-year trial data subscription.

High-Efficiency V6
The silken-smooth 3.5-liter V6 powering the ES 350 will take car from zero to 60 mph in just 7.1 seconds, and its 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque ensures quick, seamless response in everyday driving. Efficient use of fuel is another key talent of this highly responsive engine. It’s interesting to note that this engine, a full liter larger in displacement than the original 1990 ES 250’s V6 and with 71-percent more horsepower, also is rated much higher in fuel efficiency. The 31-mpg EPA highway fuel economy rating beats its forbear by a whopping 35-percent (figure for 1990 model adjusted to current EPA standards).

The ES 350’s six-speed automatic transmission also gets much credit for the outstanding combination of performance, efficiency and quiet ride.

The ES 350 driver can tailor powertrain response and other settings to suit conditions or the mood. ECO mode adjusts engine response and climate-control settings to help maximize fuel economy. Sport mode sharpens throttle and transmission response for a more engaging driving experience, while Normal mode is designed to provide an ideal balance of performance and efficiency.

Strong on Safety
In addition to its five-star overall crash rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the Lexus ES 350 offers the peace of mind of a cabin equipped with 10 airbags and an array of available driver aids including a Pre-Collision System (PCS) and Lane Departure Alert (LDA).

What’s New for 2014

• LED fog lamps included with HID headlamps
• Available Bamboo interior trim selection
• Available heated/ventilated front seats in perforated NuLuxe trim
• Siri Eyes Free technology from Apple; compatible with iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 models

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes

• Compared to previous-generation ES 350, suspension changes, a stiffer body and a quicker steering gear ratio help deliver more precise handling.
• Front suspension employs opposite-wound coil springs to help enhance straight-line control.
• Revised rear suspension geometry and improved shock absorber damping characteristics enhance ride comfort.
• Steering gear ratio has been reduced from 16.1:1 to 14.8:1 to help deliver a more responsive and direct steering feel.
• Increased body rigidity was achieved through lightweight, high tensile strength steel, added bracing and more spot welds then previous generation models.
• Airflow is smoothed beneath the vehicle, enhancing driver control and fuel economy.
• Equipped with standard 215/55R17 low rolling resistance tires on 17-inch alloy wheels or optional high-gloss 17-inch wheels.
• 18-inch high-gloss alloy wheels are offered.

Safety/Security Features

• Available Lane Departure Alert (LDA) is integrated with automatic high beam dimming technology.
• The available Pre-Collision System (PCS) uses sub-millimeter wave radar, designed to detect certain obstructions traveling ahead and prepare the vehicle for a potential collision.
• The ES features a class-leading 10 airbags as standard equipment, including driver and front passenger knee, driver and front passenger front and seat-mounted side air bags, as well as rear outboard seat-mounted side airbags and front and rear side curtain airbags.
• Whiplash Injury Lessening (WIL) front seats are designed to limit excessive head movement in certain rear-end collisions, helping to decrease the severity of whiplash-type injuries.

Warranty

• 48-month/50,000 mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.
• 72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.
• 72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.

LEXUS #3 - Upgraded 2014 Lexus LS flagship pushed luxury, further.

• New Siri® Eyes Free mode, with technology from Apple®
• Regular or long wheelbase, rear wheel drive or all-weather drive
• F SPORT model has special suspension, 19-inch wheels, Brembo brakes
• LS 600h L combines Hybrid Synergy Drive, long wheelbase

The 2014 Lexus LS flagship sedans, descendants of the car that turned “heritage” on its head more than 20 years ago, hold a special place in the premium luxury category. Distinctive design, made even more so in the LS redesign for 2013, envelops an impeccable blend of performance, luxury craftsmanship and technological innovation.

The first Lexus LS ushered in a new era in luxury car performance by making a powerful V8 engine standard at a time when European premium luxury cars offered a V8 as an option. The V8 performance advantage continues for the 2014 LS models, a contrast to several competitors that have reverted to standard six-cylinder engines in their flagship sedans. Responsive power and swift, nearly silent acceleration remain trademarks of all LS models.

The 2014 Lexus LS line includes the LS 460 in regular and long-wheelbase versions with a 386 horsepower 4.6-liter V8 (360 hp with all-wheel drive) and the LS 600h L hybrid with 438 total system horsepower from a 5-liter V8 paired with an electric motor. The LS 600h L is available exclusively with all-weather drive and is also the best-equipped LS in standard form.

Convenience and ease of use make another leap in the 2014 Lexus LS with the addition of available Siri® Eyes Free Mode technology licensed from Apple®. Compatible with the iPhone® 4S and iPhone 5 models forward, Siri lets you call contacts, select and play music from iTunes®, get turn-by-turn navigation through Siri and Apple maps, and much more. To help you keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel, Siri can read notifications and calendar information and allow you to add reminders, calendar appointments and notes.

Face Recognition
The new-generation Lexus LS design is at once bold and efficient. The signature spindle grille provides instant brand recognition, and while pleasing the eyes, the LS design cheats the wind with a very low 0.26 coefficient of drag. Discretely placed stabilizing fins on the body contribute to that low number and also help enhance high-speed control and handling.

The Lexus LS beckons the driver to savor curved roads a bit more thanks to significant enhancements in driving dynamics. The standard frequency-dependent shock absorbers, for example, help deliver flatter, road-hugging handling while also smoothing out rough surfaces. Available air suspension delivers an uncannily smooth ride while preserving the enhanced agility of the new-generation LS.

F SPORT for Road Lovers
How do you turn up the handling prowess in a premium luxury sedan and still preserve the ultra-smooth, quiet ride quality? It’s not an easy proposition, as introducing any harshness can “cheapen” the feel of a premium car. Lexus found the ideal balance with the LS F SPORT.

Sitting 0.4 inches lower on its sport-tuned air suspension and 19-inch forged alloy wheels, the F SPORT treatment gives the LS decidedly sportier driving performance. Yet, the Lexus trademark smooth, quiet ride remains intact. The contribution of high-performance hardware like the Torsen® limited slip rear differential (RWD model) and Brembo six-piston caliper brakes remains seamless. The F SPORT is also available with all-weather drive.

Inside, the Alcantara headliner, aluminum trim and leather-wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters readily identify the F SPORT as the driving enthusiast’s LS. Yet, comfort remains pure Lexus.

The F SPORT tastefully “sportifies” the LS exterior design. The unique front fascia shows off an exclusive mesh version of the spindle grille with black grille surround, larger air intake openings and round fog lamps. A chrome-plated bar running along the bottom edge of the rear bumper conveys the lowered center of gravity.

Driver-Tailored Performance
Personalizing the Lexus LS starts with a wide selection of exterior color and interior finishes. Personalization continues behind the wheel with the Drive Mode Select dial on the center console. The driver can tailor the car’s performance to driving style or mood by selecting one of three settings – “Normal,” “Eco” or “Sport S.” The system automatically adjusts several performance parameters, including shift points and throttle response. “Eco” prioritizes fuel efficiency, while “Sport” quickens responses for a livelier feeling. Models equipped with the air suspension offer two additional drive settings, “Comfort” and “Sport S+.”

Luxury in the Obvious and in the Details
Since the introduction of the original LS more than 20 years ago, the Lexus flagship sedan has continually raised the bar for interior comfort, quietness and standard luxury amenities. Heated and ventilated front seats, with 16-way power adjustment for the driver and 12-way for the passenger, are standard. The redesign brought improved comfort for long-distance drives, as well as larger heating and cooling areas and quicker heating and cooling times.

Lexus long ago mastered the art of luxury nuance and continues to hone its expertise in this area, an excellent example being the Advanced Illumination System (AIS). This all-LED interior lighting system illuminates to greet the approaching driver and passengers and then fades in sequence with the vehicle starting procedure – reminiscent of sequential light fading prior to a stage play or symphony performance.

Lexus pioneered new body construction techniques to minimize noise, and that spirit of innovation continues in the new-generation LS, which employs a special noise-reduction wheel design. As the car drives, resonant noise is channeled from the main air chamber to adjacent hollow areas within the wheels via resonator hole cutting a significant source of road noise.

The Lexus LS personalizes passenger comfort with the available Lexus Climate Concierge. This four-zone system lets occupants set temperature preferences for the main climate control system, the climate control seats and, for the driver, the heated steering wheel. Multiple sensors throughout the cabin ensure that the system reaches heating/cooling preferences quickly.

Craftsmanship throughout the cabin reflects an obsessive focus on materials and details. For example, Lexus craftsmen take 38 days to create the available Shimamoku (“striped wood”) Espresso wood steering wheel and matching trim. It’s an exhaustive 67-step process of layering dark- and light-shaded veneers to create this one-of-a-kind wood finish. The finished product is simply stunning.

Useful Technology That’s Easy to Use
As luxury brands have been adding new and sometimes complex technologies, Lexus continues to find an ideal balance of usefulness and usability. Navigation is standard on all LS models. The 12.3-inch, split-screen, high-resolution multi-media display is large enough to simultaneously show a map display on one side and selectable vehicle functions on the other.
         
Steering wheel buttons provide quick, easy access to frequently used functions in the climate and audio systems. Operating navigation, climate control, a paired cell phone, audio system and numerous other vehicle functions does not require a master’s degree in engineering. Rather, with the console-mounted Lexus next-generation Remote Touch, complete with leather trimmed wrist pad, the driver can quickly toggle through screen menus to operate a variety of vehicle systems. One-push confirmation makes menu and item selection easy and intuitive.

Lexus has expanded connectivity in its vehicles while helping to reduce driver distraction. The foundation of this capability, Lexus Enform®, can make a compatible Bluetooth®smartphone even smarter. The available Enform service, with Destination Assist, eDestination, and App Suite, comes with the Navigation System/Mark Levinson Audio Package.  Lexus Enform provides access to the subscription-free App Suite.  These voice-enabled apps let you search the Internet through Bing™, make restaurant reservations through OpenTable®, get movie tickets via MovieTickets.com™, listen to Internet radio, including , Pandora®, and  iHeartRadio™, search business reviews on Yelp®, and check in on  Facebook Places™.

The LS’ telematics system, Lexus Enformwith Safety Connect® is available by subscription. Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are available on all purchases of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features. Safety Connect is standard on all vehicles while Lexus Enform with Safety Connect is on all vehicles equipped with the optional Navigation system. The Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response centers operate 24 hours a day, 7 days a week—every day of the year.

Lexus Enform vehicles are factory ready for subscriptions to a variety of innovative SiriusXM® services including NavTraffic, NavWeather, Sports, Stocks and Fuel Prices. SiriusXM services offer complimentary one-year trial data subscription.

Lexus Heritage: Stunning Sound
From its inception, Lexus also changed expectations for standard and optional in-car audio, and the newest LS models continue this tradition. Since the 1970s, audiophiles seeking the depth and power of a live performance in their living rooms have turned to the Mark Levinson® brand for its ultra high-end equipment. The hushed cabin of the Lexus LS offers the ideal stage for hearing music at its best, which is what the optional Mark Levinson Reference Surround System provides.

“Reference” is a term respected among audiophiles, and it means the music is played back with the utmost fidelity to the recording. The 19-speaker Lexus Mark Levinson system provides a 5.1 home theatre surround experience using 7.1 architecture and discrete circuitry. The 450-watt, 15-channel ML3-16 Processor Power Amplifier covers the 20Hz-20kHz frequency range with less than 0.1% Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) – a stunning achievement in mobile audio.

Safety and Collision Avoidance
The Lexus LS offers a raft of driver-assist technologies, including the advanced Pre-Collision Safety (A-PCS) system with Collision Avoidance Assist. This system is designed to assist the driver in avoiding or mitigating frontal collisions with vehicles and pedestrians under a wide range of city and highway speeds. At speeds lower than 24 mph, this technology can help the LS driver to avoid accidents by automatically bringing the LS to a full stop.

What’s New for 2014

• Siri Eyes-Free mode.
• Revised auto headlamp on/off
• Ability to open trunk lid without key fob being in range when vehicle is unlocked
• Minor interior color and trim revisions.

Vehicle Details

Chassis/Body/Suspension/Brakes/Tires
Numerous stabilizing fins help make the LS one of the most aerodynamically efficient cars in its segment with a coefficient drag of 0.26. Laser screw welding, body adhesives and other structural reinforcements increase rigidity and enhance control, steering feel and handling.

• Standard Drive Mode Select allows the driver to choose from three distinct drive settings (Eco, Normal and Sport S). Vehicles equipped with the available air suspension add Comfort and Sport S+ modes.
• The available Air Suspension with Variable Gear Ratio Steering automatically adjusts the damping force for optimal comfort and performance.
• The available AWD system features a central, permanently engaged, Torsen Limited Slip Center Differential to further enhance grip, traction and cornering stability.
• Noise-reduction wheels.

Safety/Security

• The Advanced Pre-Collision Safety system (APCS) can detect stationary pedestrians and those moving at speeds of up to three miles per hour and stop the vehicle from a speed of 24 miles per hour if a collision with another vehicle is imminent. 
• An upgraded, optional Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) helps the driver stay in the intended lane.

Luxury/Comfort/Convenience

• Available Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) constantly monitors the distance to vehicles ahead and is capable of operating at any speed. The system can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, and accelerate away once the road ahead is clear.
• Optional Lane-Keep Assist system (LKA) helps the driver stay in the intended lane.
• The Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) uses rear millimeter-wave radar to monitor the vehicle rear side blind spots at 10 miles per hour or more. This feature includes Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), which automatically operates when the vehicle is in reverse, alerting drivers to the approach of other vehicles when backing out of a parking place.
• The available Automatic High Beam system features a camera located in the inner mirror that detects light sources in front of the vehicle — including the headlamps of oncoming vehicles, the tail lamps of a vehicle ahead and street lighting - to automatically switch the high beams on and off accordingly.
• Quietest LS cabin ever.
• Front seats minimize pressure peaks and increase support. Both front seats feature an improved standard heating and cooling system with larger heating and cooling areas and reduced heating and cooling times.
• AWD models, including the LS 600h L, feature a heated steering wheel and Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heating elements, which warm the front cabin area quickly after vehicle start-up. Windshield de-icer and headlamp washers are standard on AWD models.
• The LS features a standard Lexus Premium Audio System with a nine-channel amplifier, 10 speakers, CD / DVD player changer, DVD audio and video compatibility, MP3 sound enhancement, HD Radio™ with iTunes tagging, and a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio. Standard entertainment and connectivity advancements include enhanced Bluetooth capability with automatic phonebook download and streaming audio.

Luxury Options

• Available power rear seats with Climate Concierge.
• An available Ottoman Seating Package with Shiatsu massage and a Rear Seat Entertainment System featuring a Blu-ray Disc™ DVD player, an SD card slot and a retractable, ceiling mounted, nine-inch full-color VGA screen.

Interior Design

• The dashboard is divided into two distinct zones: an upper Display Zone, with the large, 12.3-inch, LCD multi-display screen, and a lower Operation Zone, which allows access to system controls such as the second generation Remote Touch Interface (RTI).
• The driver’s instrument meter cluster incorporates high-visibility, large diameter Optitron dials; a 5.8-inch Thin Film Transistor (TFT) Multi-information screen; and an aluminum analog clock with a GPS-based time correction function.
• Optional wood includes Walnut, Shimamoku Espresso and Matte Brown Bird’s Eye Maple. The LS 600h L also offers an eco-friendly Bamboo wood trim.

Warranty

• 48-month/50,000-mile basic limited warranty with roadside assistance for 48 months/unlimited miles.
• 72 months/70,000 miles powertrain and restraint system coverage.
• 72 months corrosion perforation protection coverage, regardless of mileage.
• Eight years/100,000 miles hybrid-related components, including the HV battery, battery-control module, hybrid control module and inverter with converter.

FRANKFURT - Chevrolet + Corvette

• World and European debut of Chevrolet Camaro convertible and coupe, respectively
• Corvette Stingray coupe and convertible celebrate German premiere
• New MyLink radios introduced on Cruze, Orlando, new Camaro and Corvette
• Chevrolet expands powertrain offer, introduces radar-aided warning system and advanced parking aid

The debut of the new Camaro convertible and coupe, the German premiere of the all-new Corvette Stingray, the expansion of the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio offering, as well as many new features for multiple passenger cars are Chevrolet's highlights at the 65th Frankfurt Motor Show.

Whether you are a sports car fan, an early adopter of new connectivity technology, or a driver intent on getting more value for your money, the Chevrolet stand (B03 in hall 9) at the IAA 2013 offers plenty of relevant themes and attractions. Spread over nearly 1800 square metres, it includes a store offering branded and product-specific merchandise as well as a meeting point where visitors can try out fun activities and obtain give-aways.

During the press days (September 10 and 11, 2013), representatives from Chevrolet's app partners TuneIn, Stitcher and BringGo will be available on site to explain the functionality and wide range of benefits their systems offer to drivers.

New Camaro features enhanced aerodynamics

Boasting a low-slung silhouette and Chevrolet's newest MyLink connected radio, the latest model of this famed American muscle car represents the most significant redesign since the introduction of the fifth-generation Camaro as a concept vehicle in 2006.

It also features improved high-performance aerodynamics for more efficient cooling and stability at high speeds. The front fascia has a wider lower grille and a narrower upper grille, while the functional hood vent helps reduce heat and aerodynamic lift. At the rear, a sculptural deck lid, horizontal lamps and a diffuser complete the new design.

Power is supplied by the proven 6.2L V8 engine which is mated to a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission.The manual transmission version churns out 432 hp (318 kW) at 5,900 rpm and delivers a torque of 569 Nm at 4,600 rpm. 0-62 mph acceleration is 5.2 seconds for the manual coupe and 5.4 seconds for the manual convertible.*

Remote keyless entry is standard as are a new colour heads-up display, one of the two new Chevrolet MyLink connected radios and a rearview camera.  

Corvette Stingray takes performance and customisation to new level

Shown for the very first time at an auto show in Germany, the new Corvette Stingray will be equipped and tuned to meet the needs of customers in the highly competitive European market. It will feature the Z51 performance pack and the latest magnetic ride control suspensions as standard.

While sales of the Corvette Stingray will kick off in the U.S. shortly, select Chevrolet dealerships across Europe are gearing up for the arrival of the coupe toward the end of this year. In the UK, prices for the coupe and convertible variants start from£61,495 and £64,495,respectively. The convertible will be available in Europe as of early 2014.

The new 6.2L LT1 V8 engine provides 460 hp (343 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) of torque at 4,600 rpm with the performance exhaust system (SAE-certified data). In fact, the Corvette Stingray has achieved the highest standard power ratings ever for the Corvette; performance figures include 0-62 mph acceleration of 4.2 seconds and more than 1g in cornering grip.

The host of advanced technologies incorporated in the new Corvette Stingray includes:

• a new 7-speed manual transmission with Active Rev Matching which anticipates gear selections and matches engine speed for perfect shifts every time
• Active Fuel Management, which enables the Corvette Stingray to cruise on only four cylinders during light load conditions such as highway cruising
• an all-new aluminum frame that is 57 percent stiffer and 45 kg lighter than the steel frame used in the predecessor model
• dry-sump oiling system, differential and transmission cooling
• a five-position Drive Mode Selector that tailors 12 vehicle attributes to fit the driver's environment
• launch control: available in Track mode, for maximum off-the-line acceleration
• an entirely new exterior design that boasts race-track-proven aerodynamics, a new interior offering genuine carbon fibre and aluminum trim, as well as hand-wrapped leather materials.
• A new tablet-inspired state-of-the-art Chevrolet MyLink connected radio allows drivers to personalise a host of their car's functions to match their ride every day, from relaxed highway cruising to high-performance laps at the track. The system consists of two eight-inch liquid crystal (LCD) display screens with a screen personalisation option, USB port, SD card as well a centre screen that lowers for device storage.

Chevrolet is one of Europe's most connected car brands

Its innovative technology and ease of use have won the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio many fans since it was introduced in Europe in summer 2012. This autumn, Chevrolet is bringing two new versions of the radio to market that will further evolve the system's capabilities and appeal to consumers.

Chevrolet MyLink technology has a lot to offer to modern connected consumers, whether these are drivers who want to mirror the functions of their smartphone in the car or tech aficionados who wish to customise their individual ride experience.

Built around a 7 or 8-inch high-resolution full-colour touch screen, Chevrolet's MyLink radios allow users to easily access media, including specialist apps, from their portable device. This includes phone books, personal playlists, photo galleries, and other stored data. Mass storage devices, including MP3 players, iPod, iPad can be connected through USB, Bluetooth or aux-in jacks.

The system currently on offer is available on select trims of the Chevrolet Aveo, and Trax. It has a 7-inch high-resolution full-colour touch screen and can store the pairing information of up to 5 smartphones at one time. Owners of a compatible iPhone are able to use Siri Eyes Free, an intelligent assistant that helps get things done just by asking. The radio also enables users to take advantage of three dedicated smartphone apps – BringGo, TuneIn and Stitcher.

The first of the two new Chevrolet MyLink radios will be offered to buyers of the latest models of the Chevrolet Cruze, the Orlando family car, and the new Camaro. It features an enhanced icon-based navigation menu on its 7-inch touch screen. In addition to voice recognition for select languages, this system has text-to-speech capability, which allows users to listen to text messages from their smartphone**.

A rearview camera provides improved vision during parking maneuvers. Depending on the carline, trim level and market, the package may incorporate an integrated navigation system with coverage of all of Europe.

Owners of a Corvette Stingray will be able to use atablet-inspired state-of-the-art system featuring two 8-inch liquid crystal (LCD) display screens.

The screen above the integrated centre stack offers full capacitive control with an animated human machine interface. The liquid crystal display screen in the centre of the instrument cluster can provide up to 69 unique sources of information, ranging from an interactive performance timer to a tyre tread temperature display.

It is organized into sport, tour and track themes that can be changed using the Driver Mode Selector. Each display theme is designed for a specific driving scenario and can be configured through applications found in the “app tray.”

The Corvette Stingray's MyLink connected radio, too, enables voice recognition and text-to-speech**. Up to 10 Bluetooth-enabled devices can be paired and several of them connected at one time; connectivity is also possible through USB and aux-in jacks. A rearview camera is standard, and customers can opt to add an integrated navigation system.

As is the case for all Chevrolet MyLink connected radios, owners of the new systems will be able to upgrade their device with specialised apps once they become available.

More value for the money: fresh design, new powertrain options and enhanced safety

With the new model year, one of Chevrolet's most successful European cars, the Spark, will provide improved safety, thanks to standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and meet Euro5+ emission criteria. Inside, the instrument cluster and trims have been restyled. A new radio with Bluetooth connectivity, CD player, USB and aux-in jacks is standard on most trim levels.

In select European markets, customers can order the new Spark Bubble, a special edition of the popular city car. It carries a sporty bumper, side rocker moldings, 15-inch white painted alloy wheels as well as frisky white or pink-coloured Bubble decals on the front fenders.

Customers buying an Aveo with the Chevrolet MyLink connected radio will get a standard rearview camera. In addition, higher trims of the Chevrolet Aveo will have stylish LED turn signals mounted in the outside mirrors.

Starting this autumn, a choice of four petrol engines will be available on all body styles of the Cruze – a naturally aspirated 1.4L (100 hp/75 kW), a 1.4L turbo (140 hp/103 kW), a 1.6L (117 hp/86 kW) and a 1.8L (141 hp/104 kW) engine. The diesel line-up, currently consisting of a 1.7L (130 hp/ 96kW) and a 2.0L (163 hp/120 kW) unit, will be complemented by a 110 hp (81 kW) variant of the1.7L diesel. The latter has the smallest carbon footprint of all engines offered on the Cruze – with just 99 g of CO2 per km for the saloon body style.

The Cruze's outside rearview mirrors sport integrated LED turn signals. On higher trims of the Cruze family, Chevrolet is introducing Side Blind Zone Alert, a safety feature that spots approaching vehicles in the side blind zone by means of radar.

The Orlando is available with Side Blind Spot Alert and Advanced Parking Aid with the new model year. The former has ultrasonic sensors that detect approaching vehicles in the blind spot and warns the driver through an illuminated icon in the outside rearview mirrors. The Advanced Parking Aid identifies suitable parallel parking slots at low speeds and gives the driver instructions on how to steer the vehicle.

Changes to the exterior include LED turn signals in the outside rearview mirrors as well as new 16-inch wheel covers and 17 and 18-inch alloy wheels. Under the hood, the Orlando's proven 1.4L turbocharged petrol engine can be now matched with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The turbocharged petrol variant (1.4L) of Chevrolet's small SUV, the Trax, will become available with a front-wheel-drive layout as of this autumn. When matched to a six-speed manual transmission, this variant of the Trax is capable of 0 -62 mph acceleration in 9.5 seconds. Fuel consumption on a combined cycle is 47.1 mpg with Stop/Start, which translates into 139 g of CO2 per km. An automatic gearbox is also available for this powertrain option, in selected markets.

Chevrolet dealerships across Europe have started offering the upgraded version of the 2.0L diesel-powered Malibu. The manual transmission variant has standard Start/Stop and delivers a reduced fuel consumption of 60.1 mpg on a combined cycle. CO2 emissions are 125 g per km. Further enhancements include a rear view camera on upper trims as well as an emergency stop signal that is activated on all variants during emergency braking.