2008 Hyundai i30 First Steer

"No, it's not a new Sports version of the A Class Mercedes-Benz or a new a variant of BMW's 1-Series. It's the new i30 from Hyundai and we reckon they're going to sell like hotcakes"

If you've never thought of owning a Hyundai motor car before today, you might want to take little looksee at the i30 hatch from the award winning Korean car company.

Awards you say? Yes, stacks of them. German Auto Zeitung Magazine in it's "2006 Qualitats Report" voted Hyundai "Most Reliable Brand", The exhaustive JD Power & Associates Initial Quality Study: ranked the carmaker 3rd among all nameplates behind Porsche and Lexus and in Australia, reliability and cost of ownership have brought Hyundai a host of accolades from the likes of Wheels Magazine and NRMA.

The small car market is the toughest sector in the world to compete in with just on 37% of all cars sold slotting in to this category. Hyundai needed to produce an exceptional car to have a half a chance with products such as the recently launched Mitsubishi Lancer.

My guess is they have succeeded. I'm betting that the i30 will go straight to the top of the charts and yes that's a big call, but the combination of styling, materials, equipment, drivability and affordability, are of a level not yet seen in this category, to my knowledge at least.

There are three spec levels on offer; SX, SLX and SR powered by a 2.0 CVVT petrol unit mated to either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed auto transmission. And if you are diesel savvy, you'll be exceptionally pleased with the 1.6 CRDi powered i30 and its hill demolishing 255Nm of torque.

At this stage the CRDi is only available with a 5-speed manual box and in SX and SLX trim levels. We're told a 4-Speed auto is literally around the corner and will be available from late December/early January.

I sure would like to see an SR badge with the CRDi though or better still – a proper high performance version of both engine variants in the not too distant future.

You can't help but like the way this car looks. There's a lot more Euro styling than there is Korean in the i30, and it shows.

The well sorted Volkswagen Golf, Mazda 3 and Ford Focus are said to have served as the benchmark vehicles for the i30, but as far as I'm concerned, they threw in an A-Class and a 1 Series for good measure.

The result is one very good-looking hatch, inside and out.

It's a well thought out car inside too. For starters there's an iPod interface allowing you to plug your MP3 directly into the car's sound system. And you won't even need a USB cord. Every i30 comes with one in the centre console. Not only that. The car's audio head unit can control both volume and playlists – a huge plus and not available in many prestige cars.

The standard fit remote folding key fob looks remarkably similar to that found across the Volkswagen range and is a nice touch.

The driver and front passenger seats are particularly good, offering comfort and sports style side bolster. A massive improvement over the Elantra.

Steering is both height and reach adjustable, which in my book, is essential if you are to find the perfect driving position. The SLX and SR versions win a nice thick leather wrapped steering wheel, while the base model SX gets not so handsome plastic model which looks worse than it is to hold.

With over twenty storage compartments throughout the i30 – a family of four is well catered for, including an air-conditioned glovebox, able to chill at least two bottles or cans.

Air conditioning with Pollen filter is standard as are a host of other features such as; power windows and mirrors (heated), ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), driver and front passenger airbags with Electronic Stability Program (ESP) and Traction Control (TCS) standard on the SR but optional on both the SX and SLX.

On the SX – you would need to go with the SX Protectz safety pack, which includes driver and front passenger side and curtain airbags. With the SLX, you would only need to option ESP with TCS, as the full compliment of airbags is standard fitment.

First off the rank was the 2.0 CCVT petrol SLX with the 4 –speed auto and running on 16-inch alloys shod with 205/55 tyres.

With 105kW peaking at 6000rpm and 186Nm of torque at 4600rpm it's not the most powerful in class and as a result, it needs to work hard from a standard start. Once moving and into third gear, it's a much more pleasant drive. The engine note adopts a relatively quiet composure but with plenty of go for highway cruising.

The car feels incredibly well planted while the steering weight is near perfect. Suspension has been tweaked by a world renowned handling and ride guru, who carried out substantial testing on Australian roads which I've been reminded, are far worse than the UK's much criticised "B" roads.

Even over bitumen starved roads here's no jarring through the cars body whatsoever. All bumps and potholes are largely eliminated with this suspension setup.

We gave the i30 a little punt through a nice twisty stretch and just to see if the guru had done his/her job. Yes, in a word. The balance between between ride and handling is spot on.

The brakes are also worth a mention. The pedal feel is confident with excellent stopping power via ventilated front discs and solids at the rear.

We were itching to get behind the wheel of the 1.6 CRDi and all good things come to those that wait.

First off – buy the diesel. Yes, there's a premium of $2500 over the equivalent petrol car but the increased driveability and low down performance of the diesel, is worth every dollar.

And if we're talking fuel consumption – it's a no contest. While the 2.0 petrol isn't bad at 7.2-l/100km, how's 4.7-l/100km sound!

• i30 SX 2.0 Petrol manual - $18,990

• i30 SX 2.0 Petrol auto – 20,990

• i30 SX CRDi man only - $21,490

• i30 SLX 2.0 Petrol man - $23,490

• i30 SLX 2.0 Petrol auto - $25,490

• i30 SLX CRDi man only - $25,990

• i30 SR 2.0 Petrol man $26,490

• i30 SR 2.0 auto - $28,490

Source: http://www.caradvice.com.au/6719/2008-hyundai-i30-first-steer/

Ford and MIT get cozy on new powertrain, fuel and energy

Ford and MIT, two big players that already have an ongoing research alliance, announced a new partnership today that focuses on "new powertrain, fuel and energy technologies to deliver sustainable transportation for consumers."

Last November, MIT established the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI) to do all kinds of fun stuff, like "help transform the global energy system to meet the challenges of the future." Ford's role is as MITEI's first Sustaining Member not only gives them access to new technologies but also creates two MITEI fellowships – the Ford Alliance Energy Fellows.

Accordign to MITEI's director, professor Ernest Moniz, Ford could help change the world once again with "transformational technologies for a new century." Sounds good, especially if it's undoubtedly for the better this time.

Wonder what Ford's interested in? Some of the research going on at MIT includes crowd-farming, a DIY Segway, an electric Porsche 914 and trying to answer the question, "Which comes first, the alf-fuel or the alt-fuel car?" Related press release after the jump.

FORD, MIT ANNOUNCE ENERGY RESEARCH PARTNERSHIP

Ford Becomes Inaugural Sustaining Member of MIT Energy Initiative

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 1 – Ford Motor Company and MIT today announce a major new energy research partnership that will focus on new powertrain, fuel and energy technologies to deliver sustainable transportation for consumers.

"Energy related issues pose some of society's greatest challenges," said Sue Cischke, Ford's senior vice president – Sustainability, Environment and Safety Engineering. "We are delighted to work with MIT toward sustainable solutions."

This new energy research partnership with Ford Motor Company builds on the existing Ford-MIT Alliance. With the establishment of this partnership, Ford becomes the inaugural Sustaining Member of the MIT Energy Initiative (MITEI), which was formally established in November 2006 to address global energy issues.

"Ford and MIT have a long and productive history of working together to meet critical national needs through research," said MIT President Susan Hockfield. "This expansion of the Ford-MIT Alliance will pair innovators at Ford and MIT to help meet the world's energy challenges. We are excited about Ford's support for the MIT Energy Initiative and its key role as the Initiative's first Sustaining Member."

As the inaugural Sustaining Member, Ford Motor Company will have the initial seat on the MITEI Executive Committee, which is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the Initiative. This five-year collaboration will support Ford's research program to develop new technologies and will include Ford's sponsorship of two named MITEI fellowships – the Ford Alliance Energy Fellows.

"Ford and MIT have a long history of innovating together," said Dr. Gerhard Schmidt, vice president, Ford Research and Advanced Engineering. "Focusing our combined efforts on energy challenges is crucial and timely."

The partnership will also support MITEI's energy research "seed fund" to promote the development of a broad range of novel, innovative energy technologies and concepts from innovators across the Institute.

"The development of new transportation technologies is critical for meeting the world's energy needs," noted Professor Ernest Moniz, director of MITEI. "As the first mover for the automotive technologies of the 20th century, Ford Motor Company transformed the world. This research collaboration is designed to support Ford's commitment to providing similar transformational technologies for a new century."

About Ford Motor Company

Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across six continents. With about 260,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company's core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Jaguar, Land Rover, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford's products, please visit www.fordvehicles.com.

About MITEI

MITEI is an Institute-wide initiative designed to help transform the global energy system to meet the challenges of the future. The MIT Energy Initiative includes research, education, campus energy management and outreach activities, an interdisciplinary approach that covers all areas of energy supply and demand, security and environmental impact. For more information, please visit http://web.mit.edu/mitei/.

Source: http://www.autobloggreen.com/2007/10/01/ford-and-mit-get-cozy-on-new-powertrain-fuel-and-energy-technol/

Ford News - Ford announces European-spec Focus 2008

Moving it closer to the new Mondeo and adopting the ECOnetic label for the cleanest model available, Ford has announced a restyled version of the Focus (which is very different from the one in the US, unfortunately).

The changes are mostly aesthetic, giving the model what Ford calls "kinetic design" cues, which, according to the press release are: "Working from the front towards the rear, trapezoidal grilles, swept back headlamps, bold wheel arches, newly shaped rear glass, a contoured tailgate and new tail lamps are the key changes. Higher trim grades benefit from chrome detailing and a stylish, body-coloured upper rear spoiler."

The car gets also an upgraded interior with soft-touch plastics (although current models aren't too bad) and a new center console. It can be equipped with a 230V socket to power anything and an USB connection dock as well. The car can be also optionally equipped with Ford's Power Button, to start the car without turning the key.
As announced here before, the 2008 Focus can be fitted with a dual-clutch 6-speed gearbox developed by Getrag, mated to the 136 HP and 110 HP versions of the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine which is claimed to improved fuel consumption by 10 percent.

The 2008 Focus will have engine chioces galore: a Flexifuel engine, an ECOnetic version, as well as CNG and LPG versions based on the 2.0 liter gasoline engine.

BRENTWOOD, Essex,11 September, 2007 - Winner of more than 80 awards and the only vehicle in the world to be named Car of the Year both in Europe and North America, Ford's Focus has been something of a phenomenon since the launch of the original back in 1998.

Now in its second generation, with more than 1.1 million examples sold in the UK and a range which includes hatchback, saloon, estate and Coup -Cabriolet derivatives, the Focus success story enters another chapter.

Following its unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Ford has announced that a new version of its family favourite will begin rolling off production lines from the end of 2007. Three-door, four-door, five-door and estate body styles will be first in UK showrooms, Coup -Cabriolet and ST sporting flagship variants arriving in spring 2008.

Benefiting from Ford's 'kinetic design' approach to styling, the 2008 Focus takes its inspiration from the critically acclaimed new Mondeo. The result is a classier and more distinctive appearance from a vehicle that's now as exciting to look at as it is to drive.

Working from the front towards the rear, trapezoidal grilles, swept back headlamps, bold wheel arches, newly shaped rear glass, a contoured tailgate and new tail lamps are the key changes. Higher trim grades benefit from chrome detailing and a stylish, body-coloured upper rear spoiler.

Inside, the upmarket aura continues. New soft-touch plastics now cover the instrument panel as well as the upper front door trim and this is complemented by plush new seat fabrics plus a variety of attractive fascia finishing's. The instrumentation has been re-designed too and, along with all other interior controls, is illuminated in red. Controls for the upgraded audio equipment and two-zone air conditioning have also been ergonomically improved.

Furthermore, the Titanium now includes a newly designed centre console (optional with Zetec and part of the Sport Pack), which adopts the flowing 'kinetic design' look. In addition to a movable armrest and a four-litre-capacity storage compartment, there are storage areas for back-seat passengers or the facility to add optional items such as a 230 volt socket or the USB audio connection box. Another feature available as an option from the beginning of 2008 is the Ford Power Button, which will be positioned near the gear shifter.The aesthetic appeal of Ford's latest Focus is matched by a range of mechanical introductions, including an all-new automated gearbox. The Ford PowerShift transmission will be available from early 2008 in the new Ford Focus as well as the Ford C-MAX, in combination with the 136PS and new 110PS versions of the 2.0-litre Duratorq TDCi engine.

Jointly developed by Ford and transmission specialists GETRAG, the gearbox consists of two layshaft transmissions working in parallel, each with its own wet clutch unit. Thanks to the layout of the intermediate shafts - one carrying the 'uneven' gears 1, 3 and 5, while the other one 'even' gears 2, 4 and 6 - the next gear change can be prepared by pre-selection whilst in motion and at full power.

As a result, in this configuration, the average fuel consumption improves by around 10 per cent, and CO2 emissions will be lower, compared to a conventional six-speed torque converter automatic transmission. Final homologated fuel economy and CO2 emissions data, as well as performance data for the Ford Focus with this new transmission technology, will be published closer to the car's market launch.

Another new development is the Focus "ECOnetic" which features an array of aerodynamic efficiencies and is powered by a 109 PS 1.6-litre Duratorq TDCi with standard Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF). Average consumption for the Focus ECOnetic is a frugal 65mpg. This corresponds to an average CO2 emission of only 115g/km, which is a class leading result for a conventional vehicle in this segment.

As a direct result of the Ford ECOnetic initiative, all Focus 1.6-litre TDCi variants will achieve 119g/km CO2 and this is regardless of power rating, body style or wheel dimensions. Flexifuel version of the 1.8-litre Duratec petrol four-cylinder engine can be fuelled with bio-ethanol E85-fuel as an alternative to conventional unleaded petrol - or in any mix of both. The Ford Focus range also includes CNG (compressed natural gas) and LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) derivatives both based on the 2.0-litre Duratec petrol engine.

The 2008 Ford Focus range will initially be offered across Studio, Style, Zetec and Titanium trim grades. More detailed information about the UK range and prices will be release close to the car's on-sale date.

Source: http://tsikot.yehey.com/?p=6414