Monday, March 12, 2012

Cadillac SRX, 2012

 
 
 
 Cadillac SRX, 2012

A new 3.6L V-6 - the segment's most powerful standard engine - headlines updates to the 2012 Cadillac SRX. It enhances a combination of performance, technology and refinement that is resonating with more luxury crossover customers.

The new 3.6L - known by its "LFX" engine code - is the sole engine offered in the Cadillac SRX. It delivers 16-percent more horsepower (308 hp / 230 kW) than the previous V-6 and provides greater low-rpm torque. Vehicle responsiveness is dramatically improved in all operating conditions - launch from a standstill, around town maneuvering in traffic, passing maneuvers and full-throttle acceleration. It is matched with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission, which features a driver-selectable Eco feature that alters the shift points and throttle progression to help optimize fuel economy.

The Cadillac SRX  brings enhanced features for 2012, as well as updates that make it quieter and more refined - including new sound-absorbing material placed strategically throughout the vehicle. The Base and Sport suspension systems have been revised to improve the ride quality.

Feature and content enhancements:
  •     Standard Bluetooth phone connectivity on all models, with on-screen caller identification
  •     OnStar Turn-by-Turn automated directions are loaded to the vehicle
  •     Improved voice recognition for phone activation, navigation and radio station changes
  •     A heated steering wheel on the Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections
  •     Door lock switches on the driver and passenger door panels as well as the center console
  •     Cruise control buttons on the steering wheel
  •     Memory seat set - the occupant can set the seating position simply by pressing "set" and the number simultaneously
  •     Backlighting for map lights in the overhead console
  •     A new machined-face finish on the 20-inch wheels, which are standard on Performance and Premium Collections
  •     Available all-ebony interior trim
  •     One new exterior color: Xenon Blue Metallic.
Popular features returning for 2012 include a moveable cargo fence and large under-floor storage space in the rear, a liftgate that can be programmed to stop at different heights and the UltraView sunroof that covers 70 percent of the vehicle roof.

The new and enhanced elements that contribute to a quieter ride include new acoustic material in the upper instrument panel, front-of-dash area, the center console area and the inner fenders, as well as laminated glass used in the front side glass. There is also a new laminated structural barrier used under the second-row seat to block noise.

The Inside
The Cadillac SRX's new LFX 3.6L direct-injected V-6 delivers an SAE-certified 308 horsepower (230 kW) and 265 lb.-ft. of torque (359 Nm), with efficiency-enhancing features including direct injection and continuously variable valve timing. Peak torque is achieved at only 2,400 rpm and is maintained through 5,300 rpm. The LFX is also E85 ethanol-capable.

The LFX engine is a technically advanced 60-degree V-6 with dual-overhead camshafts, continuously variable valve timing and direct injection. Supporting elements that contribute to its performance, refinement and durability:
  •     The cylinder block and cylinder heads are cast in aluminum for low weight.
  •     A composite intake manifold saves approximately 5.5 pounds (2.5 kg) over the weight of a comparable aluminum intake. It also has a comparatively small radiated surface area to help it maintain excellent noise and vibration characteristics.
  •     An integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold design saves approximately 13 pounds (6 kg) per engine when compared with a comparable engine with separate head/manifold assemblies.
  •     The cylinder heads include four valves per cylinder, with a dual overhead camshaft design incorporating infinitely variable cam phasing.
  •     A forged steel crankshaft provides optimal strength in the bottom end, while the connecting rods are made of powdered metal that features a higher ratio of copper, which makes them stronger and enables them to be lighter.
  •     The pistons are made of lightweight cast aluminum and feature a friction-reducing polymer coating on the skirts , as well as fully floating wrist pins, which also help reduce friction. Less weight in the pistons means less reciprocating mass in the engine, which in turn means less inertia and greater operating efficiency.
  •     Pressure-actuated oil squirters drench the underside of each piston and the surrounding cylinder wall with an extra layer of cooling, friction-reducing oil.
  •     A cast aluminum oil pan is stiffer to improve powertrain rigidity and reduce vehicle vibration. It bolts to the transmission bell housing as well as the engine block, eliminating points of vibration. Cast aluminum dampens internal engine noise better than a conventional stamped steel pan and is structurally stiffer.
  •     Optimized-flow fuel injectors and the integrated exhaust manifolds/cylinder heads promote lower emissions.
To help achieve their performance goals, the Cadillac SRX's engineers redesigned the exhaust system with dual runners from the engine to a collection point farther rearward in the vehicle. The diameter and length of the pipes were specifically tuned to improve low-end torque from 1,200 to 3,000 rpm.

High-pressure exhaust pulses from each of the cylinders in the engine are timed to arrive at this collection point so that they phase together in a precise way. This tuning effect, which is called scavenging, literally pulls exhaust gases out of the engine by synchronizing high and low pressure pulses from each cylinder. Peak torque now occurs at a very low 2,400 rpm and remains high all the way through 5,300 rpm. The torque and power improvements were achieved while maintaining quiet performance.

"No stone was left unturned when it came to optimizing the airflow of the LFX, from the moment it enters the engine until it is expelled through the muffler," said Pilibosian. "The exceptional airflow qualities enabled us to exceed the 300-horsepower target, while careful calibration of the dual continuously variable valve timing system and the exhaust system contribute to the engine's great low-end torque."

The LFX engine is paired with the Hydra-Matic 6T70 electronically controlled six-speed automatic transmission, with tap up/tap down driver control. A wide overall ratio spread of 6.04:1 allows a "steep" first gear, as well as a "tall" overdrive top gear for low-rpm highway cruising. Acceleration is maximized, as is fuel economy. Engine noise is also lower during cruising. Because of the wide ratio spread (6.04:1), first gear is a very high ratio, which provides brisk acceleration from a stop. Sixth, however, is an overdrive ratio, which keeps the engine revolutions as low as possible for highway cruising, reducing engine friction losses and improving fuel economy.

A driver-selectable Eco feature alters the shift points of the 6T70 to enhance fuel economy by up to 1 mpg. A clutch was added to the variable displacement air conditioning compressor to enhance fuel economy. The compressor is only run when needed and provides no drag when turned off.

Chassis and suspension
The Cadillac SRX has a four-wheel independent suspension system and a standard rack-and-pinion hydraulic steering system - and offers a variable-effort, speed-sensitive steering system - with tuning biased for sport sedan-style driving and strong on-center feel. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard and works with the standard four-wheel-disc/four-channel-ABS braking system.

The core elements of the chassis and suspension systems:
  •     An independent MacPherson strut suspension system is standard on all models, featuring a direct-acting stabilizer bar and hydraulic ride bushings.
  •     An independent "H-arm" rear suspension incorporates a lightweight hollow aluminum lower control arm and a hollow stabilizer bar.
  •     Power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering is standard on Base and the Luxury Collections.
  •     Power-assisted variable-effort and speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering system is standard on the Performance and Premium Collections.
  •     A rear axle ratio of 3.39 is standard on all models.
  •     A trailering package is available on the Luxury, Performance and Premium Collections and increases the towing capacity to 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg).
 The Sport active suspension - standard on Performance and Premium Collections - is also improved for 2012, with new front upper strut mounts, new shock valving, bonded stabilizer bar bushings and revised calibrations for this continuously variable real-time damping suspension system. Electronically controlled dampers at each corner "read" the road constantly to make real-time adjustments within milliseconds. They deliver the just-right damper rate for all road conditions, for greater comfort and a greater feeling of control. This system also increases damping during aggressive handling maneuvers to reduce the roll velocity and pitch velocity of the vehicle for a more confident feel.

The Cadillac SRX is also offered with an all-wheel-drive system that incorporates an electronic limited-slip (eLSD) rear differential. It not only improves traction in slippery road conditions, but it provides side-to-side torque transfer along the rear axle to enhance control during hard cornering. It was developed in partnership with Haldex, a leader in all-wheel-drive technology and the eLSD enables the AWD system to distribute torque from the front to rear axle, and also side-to-side, across the rear axle, sending power to the wheel with the greatest traction.

Cadillac CTS Coupe, 2011

 Cadillac CTS Coupe, 2011

Cadillac unveiled the 2011 Cadillac CTS Coupe, the latest and most dramatic of the brand's series of new designs to reach production. Slated to arrive in Cadillac showrooms in the spring of 2010, the Cadillac CTS Coupe is a new luxury sports coupe designed to become the centerpiece of the brand's revised lineup.
The Coupe joins the Cadillac CTS Sport Sedan, the 556-horsepower (415 kW) CTS-V and new CTS Sport Wagon as the foundation of Cadillac's lineup. A high-performance V-Series edition of the Coupe will also be released in 2010.

The Cadillac CTS Coupe's design carries over virtually unchanged from the concept car that was introduced at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in 2008.

The Coupe is a classic 2+2 layout bolstered with advanced technology, such as a rear-view camera system and a performance-oriented suspension system coupled to rear-wheel or all-wheel drive.

The Design
Cadillac CTS Coupe emerged as a proposal inside Cadillac's design studio, where designers have developed and evolved the brand's Art and Science design philosophy.
The coupe has the same wheelbase as the CTS, but an overall height that is approximately two inches (51 mm) lower and an overall length that is two inches (51 mm) shorter.

Although it draws from its sport sedan sister, the Cadillac CTS Coupe shares only the instrument panel, console, headlamps, front fenders and grille. Key design features:
  •     * Classic hardtop styling, with no conventional B-pillar
  •  Touch-pad operation for the doors removes the need for conventional door handles, creating a technical, clean profile
  •  A windshield laid at a faster angle (62.3 degrees) and a long, nearly horizontal backglass area combine to create a sleek, aerodynamic look
  •  Sculpted lower front fascia with unique brake-cooling vents
  •  Diamond cut-style rear fascia with mesh lower grilles
  •  Center-outlet exhaust with twin dihedral-shaped tips that pass through the rear fascia
  •  Signature vertical lighting, highlighted with LED light pipes
  •  Rear spoiler integrated into the center high-mounted stop lamp
  •  Sculpted roof-mounted antenna for OnStar and XM Satellite Radio
The shape of Cadillac CTS Coupe is refreshingly simple, yet amplified with intricately carved details. Distinctive and original Cadillac signature cues combine with hand-sculpted forms, artfully articulating the confidence of the chassis. For example, the rear fenders were purposefully developed by hand in Cadillac design studios to visually acknowledge the RWD powertrain. The gestured profile, coupled with Cadillac's vertical taillamps and pronounced rear centerline, aim to achieve the most visually confident coupe in the segment.

The Performance
The Cadillac CTS Coupe extends Cadillac's emerging performance credentials. The Cadillac CTS Coupe's standard powertrain consists of a direct injected 3.6L V-6 and six-speed manual transmission. Direct injection technology delivers fuel more precisely to increase the efficiency of combustion, enabling more power while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions.

The 3.6L DI engine is rated at 304 horsepower (227 kW) and offers EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg on the highway. It also runs on less expensive regular unleaded gasoline.

The powertrain's performance is channeled through a chassis that delivers sports car performance without punishment. The hardware includes an independent short/long arm ( SLA) front suspension system, with hydraulic control arm front bushings; and a multi-link rear suspension mounted on a fully isolated subframe. Also included are four-wheel disc performance brakes, premium steering and limited-slip differential.

2 suspension-tuning levels are available: a Performance Package with 18-inch wheels and all-season tires (available in both RWD and AWD,) and the Summer Tire Performance Package, with 19-inch tires and wheels and a higher level of road holding capability. StabiliTrak, the advanced electronic chassis control system, is standard.

The 304-horsepower (227 kW) 3.6L V-6 Direct Injection engine will be standard, equipped with a six-speed manual, featuring a revised clutch and dual-mass flywheel that offers better clutch pedal feel and improved engine isolation. A 6-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control (and available steering wheel mounted shift buttons) is optional.

The technology
Cadillac CTS Coupe blends handcrafted luxury with a contemporary, driver-focused interior that supports the car's high-performance capabilities. The interior includes hand-sewn accents covering the door, center storage console and instrument panel trim. 14-Way adjustable Recaro sport seats, previously exclusively offered on Cadillac's V-Series model, will be offered on all Cadillac CTS Coupe models as an option.

The car offers a host of advanced technologies:
  •  Integrated iPod/MP3 capability
  •  40-gig hard drive, including the ability to store music and pause-and-replay live radio
  •  Pop-up navigation system
  •  Adaptive forward lighting system
  •  Bluetooth connectivity
  •  Standard Keyless Access and Smart Remote Start
  •  Rear Camera system
  •  Bose 5.1 Cabin Surround audio system
As with other Cadillac models, the Cadillac CTS Coupe comes standard with OnStar with Turn-by-Turn Navigation, the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar.

Buick Regal GS, 2012

 
 
Buick Regal GS, 2012

The Buick revealed the production version of the 2012 Buick Regal GS, an even sportier expression of the Regal sport sedan that went on sale in 2010 and has attracted new buyers to the Buick family. Powered by a high-output, exclusive Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission, the GS delivers an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque for a 0-60 mph performance of less than seven seconds (estimated). Buick's Interactive Drive Control System is standard on the GS, allowing drivers to customize the driving experience by changing the suspension settings and steering sensitivity between three modes: standard, sport and GS.

Product highlights:
  •     Exclusive Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged and intercooled engine rated at an estimated 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb-ft of torque (400 Nm)
  •     Six-speed manual transmission, with six-speed automatic with Driver Shift Control to be offered later
  •     Interactive Drive Control System with GS mode
  •     Four-wheel independent system with HiPerStrut front suspension
  •     High-performance four-wheel disc brake system with Brembo front calipers
  •     Standard 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tire and optional 20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires.

The exterior design features unique front and rear fascias, with the front fascia incorporating prominent, vertical air intake slots and specific grille treatment - with the vertical elements accented in a satin-metallic finish. The rear fascia has a pair of integrated, satin-metallic trapezoidal exhaust outlets. Rocker panel extensions and an integrated rear spoiler are also woven into the design. The GS cuts a sportier stance, too, with a slightly lower ride height than other models and aggressive 19-inch, 5-Twin Spoke alloy wheels and all-season tires (20-inch, 5-Twin Spoke polished alloy wheels with performance tires are optional).

The inside is a racing-inspired, flat-bottom sport steering wheel and metal sport pedals, along with leather-appointed 12-way power-adjustable sport driver and front passenger heated seats, which include four-way power lumbar. The GS-specific black interior is accented with satin-finish elements on the instrument panel, steering wheel and console, while the instrument panel glows white when the driver engages the GS mode of the Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS).

Standard amenities for the Buick Regal GS :
  •     Passive keyless entry with push-button start
  •     Standard XM Satellite Radio with three-month trial service
  •     Harmon/Kardon premium 320-watt sound system with nine speakers
  •     Bluetooth phone connectivity
  •     Leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel with audio controls
  •     Leather-appointed sport seating
  •     Heated driver and front passenger seats, with 12-way adjustable driver and front passenger seats - including four-way lumbar adjustment
  •     120-volt accessory power outlet
  •     Power windows with express up/down feature in the front and express down in the rear
  •     Front and rear ultrasonic parking assist
  •     Bi-xenon HID headlamps
Turbocharging 
Power for the Regal GS comes from a high-output version of the Ecotec 2.0L turbocharged DOHC VVT engine with direct injection technology. It is based on the engine that will be available on Regal CXL later this year, but the engine and turbocharger are tuned to deliver greater boost pressure in the GS. The output is rated at 255 horsepower (190 kW) and 295 lb.-ft. of torque (400 Nm). A three-inch-diameter exhaust system provides reduced back pressure, resulting in higher engine power

Direct injection technology helps the engine deliver more power through increased efficiency, while maintaining fuel economy and lowering emissions. That means less fuel is consumed and lower emissions generated - including a 25-percent drop in cold-start hydrocarbon emissions. Variable valve timing optimizes power, efficiency and emissions across the entire rpm band.

The Buick Regal GS rides on a relatively long wheelbase of 107.8 inches (2738 mm), which delivers refined, well-balanced vehicle dynamics. It also features a four-wheel-independent suspension, with a unique High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) front suspension design. The HiPerStrut system helps reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering; the driver experiences reduced torque steer, improved grip and increased cornering power, along with crisper handling, steering precision and feedback.

The four-link independent rear suspension is designed to minimize unwanted toe and camber effects during spirited driving maneuvers, enhancing vehicle stability. Both front and rear dampers incorporate active Computer Damping Control (CDC), continuously changing damper characteristics to maintain optimal vehicle ride control over varying road surfaces and profiles. More aggressive, performance-oriented damping characteristics can also be selected by the driver through the Interactive Driver Control System.

Braking power comes from a large diameter four-wheel disc brake system featuring Brembo front calipers. A standard, four-channel anti-lock brake system is tuned to reduce stopping distances over varied road surfaces and conditions. An electronic parking brake is actuated via a center console-mounted control. The Buick Regal GS also features standard StabiliTrak stability control system with integrated, full-function traction control.

Interactive Drive Control System

The Buick Regal GS is also equipped with Interactive Drive Control System (IDCS) chassis technology (also offered on other Regal models with the 2.0L turbo engine). It delivers enhanced vehicle stability and greater driving safety. The driver selects among three operating modes - standard, sport and GS - that change the suspension settings, and steering sensitivity through the variable-effort steering system.

A sophisticated driving mode control module continually monitors driving style utilizing yaw rate, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering wheel, throttle and vehicle speed. It defines the dynamic vehicle state, including acceleration, braking and cornering, to optimize chassis reactions. It also executes all of the IDCS driver selections. All four dampers are electronically controlled and continuously adapt within milliseconds to the prevailing road conditions, vehicle movements and individual driving style.

Buick GL8, 2011

 
 
 
 
 
 Buick GL8, 2011

The luxury MPV builds on the heritage of the original Buick GL8, China's first family of executive wagons. Since the model's debut in 1999, more than 330,000 have been sold across China.

The new model, which will reach the market in January 2011, features seven innovations and 27 technological breakthroughs along with improvements in design, space and safety, technology, power, features and quality. The result is an unprecedented luxury MPV experience that is unmistakably Buick.

"The new GL8 was developed by Shanghai GM in cooperation with the Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center (PATAC) in Shanghai with the specific needs of our customers in mind," said Terry Johnsson, Shanghai GM Vice President of Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing. "It offers everything that consumers have come to expect from Buick, including a dynamic, smooth, quiet and comfortable ride. Like its predecessor, the new Buick GL8 is the right product at the right time."

The new Buick GL8 has a graceful exterior design highlighted by Buick's distinctive double sweep spear running from front to back. Decorative metal bands add a sense of smooth, modern elegance. Its classic waterfall grille and chrome portholes further underscore the new GL8's Buick heritage.

With a length of 5,256 mm, a width of 1,878 mm, a height of 1,800 mm and a wheelbase of 3,088 mm, the new Buick GL8 provides a spacious ride for all occupants. The dignified interior merges Eastern and Western aesthetics. It features ice-blue atmosphere lighting and a 360-degree wraparound design inspired by luxury yachts.

Among the other amenities available are two-tone ergonomic genuine leather seats; a two-piece panorama sunroof; an electric anti-pinch sliding door and one-touch electric lift rear door; a 10-speaker, 5.1-channel Bose sound system; a 7-inch touch screen up front and 10.2-inch WVGA HD display in back; and the OnStar in-vehicle safety, security and communication service.

An enhanced suspension with independent front-and-back sub-frames ensures a smooth, steady ride. Buick's signature QuietTuning reduces, blocks and absorbs interior noise, for a distraction-free environment that is comparable to that of a luxury sedan.

The new Buick GL8 comes with a choice of a 3.0-liter V-6 SIDI intelligent direct injection engine or a 2.4-liter Ecotec engine with segment-leading fuel efficiency. GM's advanced 6-speed automatic transmission comes standard, providing unrivaled power in the luxury MPV segment.

In the area of safety, the new Buick GL8 has a super-solid body frame. The Bosch 8.1 ESP system delivers premium handling. It is complemented by large-size tires and disc brakes, with six air bags available on selected models. For maximum visibility, the new Buick GL8 incorporates multi-dimensional blue ray Bi-Xenon HID headlights and crystal-like chrome LED taillights.

The new Buick GL8 luxury MPV has a retail price of between RMB 288,000 and RMB 388,000. Shanghai GM is also introducing an upgraded 2011 model of the current Buick GL8 in December 2010, targeting the upper-medium MPV segment. It includes a new 2.4-liter Ecotec engine and a 6-speed automatic transmission. This "dual-vehicle strategy" will enable Shanghai GM to more fully address the MPV market, from the upper-medium to luxury segments.

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