AUTO CAR EXPOSE

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Peugeot to launch 308 GT THP 175 at Geneva 2008

Peugeot will unveil two new 308 models at this year’s Geneva Motor Show, the innovative and practical 308 SW and the dynamic 308 GT THP 175.

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This new top-of-the-range petrol-driven 308 will be powered by the 1.6L turbocharged THP 175bhp petrol engine, previously found in the 207 GTi THP 175. It is also fitted with a new 6-speed manual gearbox.

Designed in joint-venture with the BMW Group, the 1.6L turbocharged petrol engine develops a maximum power of 175bhp at 6000 rpm but is characterised mainly by its generous torque output. With a maximum torque output of 245Nm (or 265Nm with overboost!) at only 1600rpm, the engine provides excellent in-gear acceleration and levels of driveability normally associated with a larger capacity engine.

Performance figures are 0 - 100km/h in 8.3 sec, on the way to a top whack of 225km/h. Claimed fuel consumption figure is an impressive 37.1 mpg. The beauty of a modern, high performance small 4-pot with direct injection + turbocharging? Think: Fiat Bravo GT, VW Golf GT TSI and Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart :)

To match the dynamic nature of the engine, the exterior of the vehicle has undergone dynamic aesthetic changes. The lower front bumper panel has a unique appearance which is combined with a rear spoiler and a reduced overall ride height. Inside, the interior gains an aluminium gear knob and foot pedals and a new steering wheel design.

Nasim Sdn Bhd (NSB) has earlier indicated that the new Peugeot 308 will probably debut in the middle of 2008 in Malaysia. The 308 GT may be just one of the special models that are brought in to further excite the Malaysian market. Those who are interested in the new 308 may call the Peugeot Careline at 03-2617 7777 for more information.

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/peugeot-308-rc-z-concept.html

2008 Honda Accord: TV Ad in Thailand

Expect to see the same version here in Malaysia soon...in the meantime, enjoy this! :)

All-New Acura TSX for U.S. market (Euro Accord)

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The second-generation Acura TSX will debut at New York International Motor Show 2008. The 2009 Acura TSX is larger but is claimed to be more agile, with higher performance and more luxuriously equipped than before. Marketed as a world-class sports sedan, the new TSX has significantly evolved to offer more comfort, convenience, driving performance and safety.

Honda's all-aluminum 2.4L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder produces 201hp and 233Nm, with five percent more torque further strengthens the engine's pulling power at mid-rpm range. This allows the 2009 TSX to be more responsive off the line and out of corners, and stronger in the middle of the rpm range where the engine operates most of the time.

This newfound performance and flexibility is due in part to a higher compression ratio, revised valve timing applied to i-VTEC, and improved intake and exhaust gas flow. Two transmissions are available, both as standard equipment – a 6-speed close- ratio manual with new performance-oriented ratios for 2nd through 6th gears, and a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic with a new lock-up torque converter assembly. The manual transmission features a short-throw shifter with a precise, light action that makes it highly rewarding to use, while the Sequential SportShift automatic permits fully automatic operation with intelligent features such as Grade Logic Control and Shift Hold Control, which make driving the TSX on hilly or winding roads more enjoyable. If the driver desires, the automatic transmission can also be operated manually via new steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters.