Challenging the rules and standing out from the crowd, the new XFR fuses sports car styling and high-performance with the refinement and sophistication of a luxury sedan.

It is a defining example of Jaguar’s dedication to creating beautiful fast cars-and with a magnificent new engine, that are quite simply the best ever setting new standards across the board.
When it was introduced last year, the all-new XFR was soon recognized as a dramatic expression of a bold new Jaguar design language.  It also soon became apparent that here as a car where the driving experience exceeded the expectations created by the striking exterior styling.


Now, the new XFR takes this driving experience to new levels, shifting the balance even further towards dynamic super high performance while still retaining the XF’s core values as a refined and luxurious sports sedan.

Power comes from an all-new 5.0 liter DOHC direct-injected V8 with an integrated roots-type twin vortex supercharger utilizing twin-intercoolers that generates 510hp and 461lb.ft. of torque.
Immediately recognizable thanks to unique 20X9in Nevis alloy wheels with Jaguar Supercharged engraving and wrapped with Dunlop’s finest ultra-high-performance tires, a new front end design with a centered mesh grille with the Jaguar’s growling signature head, beautifully formed lamp clusters with Bi-Xenon adaptive headlamps, revised lower chrome air intake, side intakes to cool down the giant 14.9in. internally ventilated discs clamped with six-piston calipers, two working hood louvers, front fender heat extractors, four polished tailpipes, an aerodynamically functional rear spoiler, coupe-like profile with a slingshot C-pillar surrounded by a thick chrome strip, and deeper side sills, the new 2010 XFR is also the first XF to carry ‘R’ badging.

This new mighty engine gives the XFR a 0-60mph time of only 4.7sec.  More relevant in everyday driving, an excellent indicator of the XFR’s great flexibility is the time it takes to accelerate from 50-70mph, just 1.9sec.
Sound quality is a key characteristic of all Jaguars and is one particular aspect that customers relish. 

The new XFR has received special attention to deliver the required V8 intake sound character commonly absent on supercharged engines.  Intake manifold pressure pulsations are fed into an acoustic filter at the rear of the engine that is tuned to ‘tenor C’, with the output from the filter ducted into the cabin.  The filter is controlled by the engine management system which allows the acoustics to enter the cabin only under certain conditions, such as when the engine is accelerating hard, thus maintaining the desired sound quality at all times.  It is music to any performance enthusiast’s ears!

Mated to the more powerful supercharged engine is an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed ZF 6HP28 electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission.  Additional clutch plates and an upgraded torque converter are added to the XFR model to facilitate the extra power.

Enhancing the enjoyment and thrilling ride offered by the new XFR is fully independent suspension, control arms, coil springs, gas-charged shocks and anti-roll bar up front with a multi-link rear that features coil springs, gas-charged shocks and an anti-roll bar.  The new changes to the XFR’s chassis dynamics come from two new advanced technologies, Adaptive Dynamics and Active Differential Control, which gives a more comfortable, and controlled ride when needed or by turning off the system you can let the rear slide when slicing through steep curving roads.

Active Differential Control (ADC) with traction-only functionality and handling functionality is an electronically controlled alternative to the traditional, wholly mechanical differential, offering more subtle control strategies.

ADC can vary its locking torque (and therefore the proportion of torque to each driven wheel) depending on surface conditions and power applied.  Its control strategies optimize traction at each wheel, improving acceleration on low-grip surfaces while also enhancing cornering ability.  ADC has no adverse effect on either refinement or stability-where the traditional, mechanical differential can compromise stability under hard applications of power, demanding more corrective input from the driver.  Whereas a mechanical differential is permanently active, the XFR’s new ADC system is switched off when not required, so unlike the mechanical alternative, it does not risk undesirable understeer, and creates no issues with noise, vibration or harshness (NVH) at low speeds.

The differential is operated by an internal electric motor and ‘ball-and-ramp’ mechanism, and contains a multi-plate clutch, which transmits or ‘vectors’ torque to the wheel with the most grip.  The multi-plate clutch assembly is designed to prevent excessive differential slip, but differs fundamentally from a conventional traction control which uses the brakes to counteract slip after it has occurred.

Adaptive Dynamics (AD) is a highly sophisticated active damping system which automatically adjusts suspension damper settings to suit both road conditions and the way in which the car is being driven.  By removing the need for compromise between a fixed, softer setting for ride comfort and a fixed, firmer setting for tauter body control and handling, AD allows the balance between rides and handling to be optimized whatever the circumstances.  Unlike earlier systems with only a small number of steps in the damper settings, it offers a progressively variable damping strategy between wide extremes, to deliver a comfortable but sporty ride with impressively sharp handling responses to your inputs.

The three primary functions of AD are to control vertical movement, roll rate and pitch rate of the body.  It does this by analyzing induced body motions one hundred times a second, and setting each damper to an appropriate level in order to maintain a constant and level body attitude, thereby optimizing control without compromising ride.  Also one hundred times a second, it predicts the roll-rate due to steering inputs, and selectively increases damping forces to reduce that roll rate-improving handling feel and driver confidence-as well as analyzing fore and aft pitch rates due to throttle and braking inputs, and again varies damping forces to reduce pitch, further improving comfort and control.

Additionally, AD improves ride by monitoring wheel position five hundred times a second and automatically increases damping rate as the suspension approaches the limits of its travel.  Similarly, it controls wheel ‘hop’ by varying damping to move any wheel out of a natural bouncing frequency, again benefitting ride comfort, handling and even grip.

The new XFR also features Handling functionality, which is unique in this class.  In conjunction with the DSC Off option and JaguarDrive Control with Dynamic Mode, this supplements all the advantages of Traction Only Functionality with a number of more driver-focused dynamic characteristics.  Dynamic Mode modifies the throttle, stability and transmission parameters, and also modifies the AD responses.

The combination of ADC and Dynamic mode with DSX Off allows controllable power-on oversteer, and improves off-throttle stability, allowing quicker, more spirited cornering when you want to take the new XFR to its limits of adhesion.  It can also improve stability in situations such as an emergency lane-change maneuver at high speed and, in combination with DSC, reduce the brake interventions which the more enthusiastic driver might see as intrusive. 

So working with DSC, the TCS traction control system and ABS braking function, ADC can significantly improve overall vehicle performance, and provide even more precise driving feel.  It is amazing how quickly the XFR reacts to my inputs at the wheel and at the throttle when the systems are turned on or off.  It is the perfect combination of electronic intervention when wanted and when no wanted to take the XFR to its limits with no electronic intervention.  The perfect Jaguar!

Improving handling and response even more is the new ‘fast ratio’ steering rack, and additionally benefits from the further improvement front-to-rear aerodynamic balance offered by a new rear spoiler and deep front bumper.  The wider stance, lower chassis height and its low overall aerodynamic drag coefficient of only 0.29 contributes to both low wind noise and inherent high-speed stability.  Contributing even more is the already stiff body shell, the stiffest in its class, is a new rear subframe, a trunk cross-brace and a front cross brace.

Quickly and safely slowing the new XFR down from speed are massive 14.9in. front and 13.6in. internally ventilated power brakes.  The front discs are clamped with 6-piston calipers while the rear features four-piston calipers.  Enhancing braking power and control are standard ABS, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake Force Distribution.  The pedal feel is very linear, a solid feel all the way from high speed to stop.  These brakes completed the circle of super-high-performance acceleration and handling prowess.

The interior cabin truly matches the sportiness, comfort, and luxury under the skin of the new XFR.  It is both modern, individual and uniquely Jaguar and hints at the car’s super-performance.  It features a full soft grain leather interior standard including suede on the pillars and headliner.  An electric sunroof to let in more air and sunlight when desired, and a new Dark Oak veneer set on the dashboard and door trim.  Its new 18X14-way, heated/cooled front adjustable sports seats have newly shaped electrically adjustable squab bolsters for significantly improved lateral support at higher cornering speeds.  Each XFR seat, front and rear, has the ‘R’ logo embroidered on it squab and the front seats have leather seat-back map pockets. 

The leather-trimmed, heated, power tilting/telescoping, 3-spoke steering wheel feels perfect in your hand and is the right size for quick inputs.  It also features its own ‘R’ logo at the bottom.  The dashboard introduces a unique, dark mesh aluminum finish, and another discreet ‘R’ badge on the passenger side of the instrument panel.  The easy to see instrument cluster’s speedometer and tachometer have the unique sporting signature of red dial pointers and carry the ‘supercharged’ motif.  At startup, the ‘R’ logo appears on the Touch-screen as part of the XFR’s ‘driver handshake’ sequence.

The XFR is packed with user-friendly technologies such as full shift-by-wire transmission controlled by the JaguarDrive Selector, plus adaptive cruise control with Automatic Speed Limiter plus a radar-based Blind Spot Monitor warning you when there is another vehicle nearby in a different lane, and a rear parking aid TV camera with a clear view of the area behind the car on the Touch Screen while in reverse.  The Touch-screen is now upgraded with on-screen guidance lines that move according to steering wheel angle to indicate the area into which the car will reverse.  The Jaguar navigation system now includes turn-by-turn instructions in the message center.  An Acoustic Laminated Windscreen is also set in place to help lower outside noise levels.

The XFR also comes with the incredible Bowers & Wilkins 440-watt system with Dolby ProLogic II surround sound and 14 speakers.  The Portable Audio Interface allows simple, direct connection of iPod and MP3 players with full control via the Touch-screen or steering wheel-mounted controls.  JaguarSense allows touch-sensitive operation for the glovebox release and interior lights-and those lights feature soft, Phosphor Blue interior mood lighting with Halo illumination around the key switch packs to ensure easy and positive night-time operation. 

Digital and SIRIUS satellite radio with HD is also standard.  Other standard equipment not mentioned above includes all-express up/down windows, dual-zone climate control through the Touch-screen, electronic parking brake, variable-rate wipers/washers, center console with three cupholders, storage slots in each door, rear air vents to more directly channel cool or heated air to the rear seats including a pull-down armrest with dual cupholders, self-dimming rearview mirror, 2-person memory seats/outside mirrors, new exterior mirror design offers aerodynamic improvements plus improved functionality with its LED side repeaters, Jaguar signature door scuff plates, thick cut-pile carpeting with front and rear floor mats including the Jaguar logo leaping cat embroidered up front, dual map lamps, grab handles above each door for easy entry/exit and dual, lighted vanity mirrors.

To keep all safe in the event of a collision is standard safety features including front/rear crush zones, steel beams in each door, tire pressure monitoring system, anti-theft engine immobilizer, driver and front passenger front and side airbags, active head restraints, side curtain airbags for all outboard seats, 3-point safety belts with front pretensioners/load limiters, latch restraint anchor system, and remote security system.

The new 2010 Jaguar XFR is a ‘tour d’ force’ in super-high-performance driving with elegant, luxury on the inside.  Jaguar has left nothing to the imagination to what a super performing luxury car should be fitted with-a unique, elegant and sporty exterior style, interior refinement on par with any other car in its class, and the powertrain, suspension, and brakes to back it all up.  The Jaguar engineers and designers have accomplished an excellent task of bringing Jaguar’s mid-size sedan up and through ‘world-class’ driving dynamics and interior luxury.  The new 2010 XFR is priced at only $79,150.00.


SPECIFICATIONS

Price: MSRP $79,150 As-Tested $79,150

Type: Large Sedan

Where Built: England

EPA Class: Midsize Cars

Dimensions
Exterior
Length: 195.3 in.
Width: 73.9 in.
Height: 57.5 in.
Wheel Base: 114.5 in.
Curb Weight: 4306 lbs.
Gross Weight: 5170 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 37.1 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 56.9 in.
Rear Head Room: 37.6 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 56.4 in.
Front Leg Room: 41.5 in.
Rear Leg Room: 36.6 in.
Luggage Capacity: 17.7 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data
Base Number of Cylinders: 8
Base Engine Size: 5 liters
Base Engine Type: V8
Horsepower: 510 hp
Max Horsepower: 6000 rpm
Torque: 461 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 2500 rpm
Drive Type: RWD
Turning Circle: 37.7 ft.
0-60mph: 4.7 seconds

Fuel Data
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.4 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 15 mpg / 21 mpg / 17 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 276 mi. / 386.4 mi. / 312.8 mi

BMW 5 Series GT

The braintrust at BMW believes they have the answer for customers who want the everyday versatility of an SUV combined with the luxury of an executive sedan – and that answer is the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo.

By Mark Hacking, Spartanburg, South Carolina

In a sneak peak held at the BMW plant in Spartanburg, in the US of A, journalists had the chance to see the new five-door in person and go for a ride around a test track – albeit not at the controls.
This is an interesting approach to introducing a new car and the same tack that Porsche took in giving writers a first taste of the Panamera earlier this year. Travel thousands of kilometres to be chauffeured around in the back of a new German luxury car? Why not?

There’s method to this apparent madness, though; with both the Panamera and the 5 Series GT, the respective manufacturers are keen to position their cars as viable luxury “four-door coupes” for the whole family with plenty of head- and legroom in all seating positions.
Here, then, are the first impressions from this back-seat driver.

In speaking about this new shape of car, BMW referred to research that indicated a wagon could never be considered a true luxury ride because the back seat passengers are, in effect, always sitting right in front of the cargo area.
Being a big fan of wagons, particularly those of the Germanic variety, I’d never considered this point at all.
When you stop to think about it, this makes some sense; in a sedan, all the passengers can be separated from their gear in a quiet and comfortable cabin, not so in a wagon or hatchback.

Based on the platform of the new 7 Series, the 5 Series GT offers more room than a standard 5 Series, a higher seat height (close to two inches higher than the 7), greater interior volume overall (including headroom comparable to an X5), adjustable rear seats and the added functionality of a dual-mode rear tailgate that operates as a boot or a hatch.
If the pre-production models we saw are any measuring stick, BMW also plans to load up the GT with some serious luxury amenities.
There will be two different interior configurations distinguished by the backseat layout. The base GT will come with a 40-20-40-split rear bench that can hold three passengers and fold flat to accommodate more gear.

There will also be an optional “luxury seating package” with power-operated flat-folding 2+2 seats. In both configurations, the rear seats can be moved forward and aft, while the angle of the seatbacks can also be adjusted.
Other interesting aspects of the interior include the tremendous glass area. The 5 Series GT features very large and frameless door windows that give the cabin a light and airy feel.
This characteristic is promoted even further with the optional panoramic moonroof that consumes a massive 55 per cent of the roof surface area.

Of course, being a BMW, this new model will definitely not be all show and no go. In most markets, the first model released will be the 550i GT, which will be powered by the twin-turbo, 4.4-litre V8. This engine produces 300kW of power, 609Nm of torque and promises to propel the 550i GT from a standing start to 100km/h in 5.4 seconds.
This engine will be paired with a brand new eight-speed automatic transmission, cop that Lexus, for improved efficiency during those blasts along the autobahn.
The driver will have the choice of three dynamic settings, normal, sport and sport plus, that control the car’s shift characteristics, throttle response, level of steering assist and traction control.

Another unique development for the 5 Series GT is the inclusion of a brake energy regeneration system.
Similar in approach to technology used with hybrid cars, this system uses an electronic clutch to engage or disengage the alternator as needed.
Under deceleration or braking, the alternator gets charged; when freewheeling, the alternator is disengaged, so it draws less power from the engine, thereby improving engine efficiency. The 5 Series GT is also equipped with a more powerful battery that needs charging less frequently.

While I’m not 100 per cent convinced that I want a four-door coupe over a sedan or a wagon, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo does represent an interesting third choice.
In person, the car is far less awkward looking than pictures would indicate and the passenger cabin is certainly a step up from the regular 5 Series.
While pricing has not been released, the 5 Series GT will be more expensive than a comparably equipped 5 Series sedan, so only time will tell if this new shape resonates enough to demand such a premium.

‘IS IT OR ISN’T IT A TRUE LEXUS’
Over the past several months I have heard from other journalists that the all-new 2010 Lexus ES350 is not a real Lexus but a Toyota Avalon wearing Lexus sheet metal.
After walking around, getting behind the steering wheel and firing up the engine for a drive, that couldn’t be further from the truth.  From the tucked-in headliner at the leading edge of the windshield, to the smooth and precise ride and handling, I can say with confidence that the all-new 2010 Lexus ES350 is 100% Lexus.  The only cross-sharing between the two is the 3.5 liter DOHC V6 and the smooth shifting, six-speed, front-wheel-drive automatic transmission.

Now in its 5^th generation, Lexus’s best selling ES350 continues to blur the line between ‘entry luxury’ and ‘prestige luxury’.  Revised headlamps, a new Lexus grille, new grille surround, chrome body side molding below each door, a full perimeter chrome strip runs around the greenhouse, big, chrome door handles make opening any door easy and convenient.  The new front bumper with revised lower intake and integrated foglamps underscore the all-new 2010 ES350’s refined character and sleek styling.  Side mirrors now feature integrated turn signals and the tail lamps are redesigned.  New exterior metallic paint colors further accentuate the distinctive design.
Inside, the renowned Lexus luxury is boosted with revised steering wheel controls, as well as new wood trim choices.  A revised center console offers more storage than before, and an array of new user technologies expands navigation capability and music playing options.  The updated optional navigation system features improved Voice Command casual-language voice recognition to increase owner convenience.  The new standard Lexus memory system controls and stores settings for the driver’s seat (except lumbar), outside mirrors and steering wheel.  Also, rain-sensing wipers are now standard.

The all-aluminum alloy 3.5 liter DOHC V6 produces 272hp at 6,200rpm and 254lb.ft. of torque at 4,700rpm.  The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Time with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds.
That’s enough power to jet the new ES350 out to 60mph from a standstill in just 6.8sec.
The super-smooth shifting automatic Electronically Controlled transmission with intelligence (ECT-i) provides a sequential manual shift for more driver involvement when you feel the urge to take the engine up to redline or when dicing through curving roads.  The automatic shifting strategy adapts to the driver’s input with rapid kick-down response.  The all-new ES350 is a fun and easy to drive sedan and the unique fully independent only adds to the fun and enjoyment.

A quiet, smooth ride is at hand thanks to a rigid unibody structure that allows the front and rear MacPherson strut suspensions to be tuned to provide response, crisp handling agility and ultra-smooth ride quality.  The low 0.28 coefficient of drag helps to minimize wind noise while also help to maximize highway fuel economy.  The ES350 rides on 17X7 inch aluminum alloy wheels with a new split five-spoke design wrapped with 215/55R17inch all-season radial tires.
The standard vehicle stability control (VSC) with traction control virtually eliminates any evidence of torque steer, and these systems also integrate with the ABS, electronic brake force distribution (EDB) and brake assist (BA).  A new VSC cut-off switch for 2010 is useful if it becomes necessary to extricate the car from deep snow or other difficult situations, such as mud or sand, if that should ever occur.
The all-new ES350 goes where you want it go thanks to the engine speed-sensing power-assisted rack & pinion steering that gives good feedback from the road and is easy to turn at slow speed and more weighty as you increase your speed.  On-center feel is right-on.

Built on a 109.3 inch wheelbase, the midsize ES350 provides a roomy and inviting interior for up to five adults.  The driver and passengers are treated to intelligent, elegant luxury, with touch points that convey quality and controls that respond fluidly.  The high level of Lexus craftsmanship is immediately evident in the ES350 with bright, clear Optitron gauges, premium rear wood trim as well as real polished aluminum and chrome plus leather accents that echo prestige luxury inside.  For 2010 Parchment leather replaces Cashmere, new Walnut trim replaces Medium Brown Walnut and Dark Brown Bird’s Eye Maple trim is added.
Lexus craftsmanship and attention to detail is further evidenced with standard leather-trimmed seating that is available in three colors.  For 2010 the Ultra Luxury Package adds double-contrast stitching for the seats (my tester), console and door trim, a feature seen only in other prestige-luxury models, and perforated semi-aniline leather, also in my tester.
A one-touch tilt/slide power glass moonroof is standard, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-way power front seats with standard driver’s memory, and a power tilt/telescoping leather steering wheel.  The standard multi-information display, located in the combination meter is easy to operate.  Its main feature is a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, fuel consumption and average speed readouts.  A new Eco Driving indicator is very useful to extend your mpg by lighting up when you are coasting or giving the car light throttle.  The display also includes an oil maintainance reminder and system warnings.

Standard leather-trimmed steering wheel integrates easy-to-use controls for the audio system, trip computer, and multi-information display, as well as voice control for the optional navigation system.  The standard auto-dimming mirror features an integrated digital compass.  Heated exterior mirrors help melt away morning fog or frost, and an illuminated entry system lights the interior footwells and the side mirror puddle lights.
The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start ignition system allows you to enter and start the car without having to take the ignition keyfob from your pocket or purse.  The standard HomeLink transmitter can control compatible garage door openers and home-security systems.  Convenience details abound throughout the ES350, including illuminated front dual cupholders and an interior lighting system.  Using the new Lexus Memory System feature, you can now tailor numerous vehicle preferences, including lighting, power windows, moonroof, steering wheel and door lock control.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio system includes AM-FM, an in-dash six-disc CD changer, automatic sound levelizer and an integrated satellite radio receiver.  New for 2010, the system adds iPod/USB connectivity, Bluetooth and music streaming through 10-speakers.
That is a lot of standard equipment for a base price of $35,800.00, but I am not through with other standard equipment not mentioned above including 10 new exterior colors (mine was smoky granite mica), PVC sealer and undercoating, use of sound dampening paint type and asphalt sheet in the floor pan, rain-sensing variable speed intermittent wiper with mist cycle, aluminum kick plates at each door, power windows with each having express up/down, heavy-duty rear window defogger with timer, grab handles above all four doors, carpeted floor mats, fabric sun visors and headliner, metallic and leather-trimmed shift knob, metallic and wood-trimmed glove box, 2-rear coat hooks, wood trim for the center console and doors in Walnut or Dark Brown Bird’s-Eye Maple, front seatback map pockets, rear-seat pass-through to trunk, cruise-control, auto-diming reaview mirror, first aid kit, interior spot-lamp illumination in front and rear, tool kit, dual map lights, sunglass holder, thick cut-pile carpeting, rear pull-down armrest with dual cupholders and storage plus air-vents located behind the center console and under each front seat for rear seat passenger enjoyment.

Besides all of these standard features, you can ‘layer’ luxury in the ES350 by adding the Ultra-Luxury Package, or by selecting from a number of stand alone options which include heated and ventilated front seats, HID headlamps with Adaptive Lenses, and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA).  The IPA system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car’s front and rear bumpers, alerting you and showing distances to objects in   the multi-information display.  The available touch-screen Lexus Navigation System rear back-up camera, revised in 2010, allows you to enter a destination using the updated Voice Command casual-language voice recognition.  The system integrates control for the Lexus Personalized Settings feature and adds Bluetooth phonebook download.  Voice command, a casual-language-based voice recognition feature is standard on navigation-equipped models.  This new technology allows you to give fewer and more flexible, conversational commands in a specific order for easier access to audio, climate, and navigation system functions to help you focus more on the road ahead.  The optional Mark Levinson Audio System is available in conjunction with the navigation system.  This leading-edge design uses 10 channels of amplification with 300 watts total output at only 0.1% total harmonic distortion.  The system plays through 14-speakers in a 7.1-channel surround sound speaker architecture.  The system can play CDs, DVDs, MP3-formatted CDs.  DVD movies can be viewed on the navigation system’s seven-inch touch screen when the car is parked and the parking brake engaged.  The Ultra-Luxury Package includes a panorama glass sunroof, perforated semi-aniline leather-trimmed seating, power rear sunshade, passenger memory, HID/AFS lighting, and a wood/leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob.  Exclusive Liquid graphite-finish 17X7in. 10-spoke alloy wheels add a very distinguished touch.  With all of these standard and optional luxury features you have to say that the all-new ES350 is ‘on-par’ with all of the other Lexus vehicles.
For standard safety, the reinforced front-and-rear-structure passenger compartment forms the foundation for passive safety in the new ES350.  In addition to advanced dual-stage front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint system includes rear seat-mounted side airbags (previously optional, now standard), side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar and a knee airbag for both front seats, for a total of 10-airbags throughout the cabin.  Five 3-point safety belts with pretensioners/load limiters up front, LATCH child anchors, steel beams in each door round out the safety features inside.  The optional Pre-Collision system (PCS) can help reduce collision damage.  The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a pre-set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead.  The multi-information display within the combination meter will show a car icon with the selected following distance.  If, based on a variety of inputs, PCS determines that a collision is unavoidable, the system preemptively retracts the front seat belts and pre-initializes BA so that increased braking will be applied the instant you depress the brake pedal.  Active Braking can automatically apply the brakes up to a deceleration rate of 0.3g if you fail to react to system warnings.

The new ES350 offers an all-new telematics system, Lexus Enform with Safety Connect, available by subscription.  Complimentary one-year trial subscriptions are included on all purchase of new Lexus vehicles equipped with these features.  Both the Lexus Enform and the Safety Connect response center operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week-every day of the year.  Safety Connect is available on both the non-navigation and navigation-equipped ES350 and offers four safety and security features: automatic collision notification, stolen vehicle locations, emergency assistance button (SOS) and enhanced roadside assistance, which adds GPS data to the already included warranty-based Lexus roadside service.  Lexus Enform, available only on navigation-equipped vehicles includes all of the Safety Connect features and builds up them with the premium services of Destination Assist and eDestination.  Destination Assist agents are available via the on-board cellular equipment and can help you find a specific address, a business by name, or a type of business.
The all-new 2010 Lexus ES350 has what consumers are looking for when shopping for a fun and easy-to-drive mid-size, luxury sport sedan that is loaded with standard luxury features and a long list of extra luxury available to make the car fit you special needs and wants, at an affordable price compared to many of the other American, Asian and German models.
Test drive one and you’ll agree that this is pure Lexus at it luxury best.

SPECIFICATIONS
Price: Base $35,175 As-Tested $44,848
Type: Midsize Sedan
Where Built: Japan
EPA Class: Midsize Cars
Dimensions
Exterior
Length: 191.1 in.
Width: 71.7 in.
Height: 56.3 in.
Wheel Base: 109.3 in.
Curb Weight: 3605 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 37.4 in.
Front Hip Room: 55.9 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 57.3 in.
Rear Head Room: 36.8 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 56.3 in.
Rear Hip Room: 52.8 in.
Front Leg Room: 42.2 in.
Rear Leg Room: 35.9 in.
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 15 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5
Performance Data
Base Number of Cylinders: 6
Base Engine Size: 3.5 liters
Base Engine Type: V6
Horsepower: 272 hp
Max Horsepower: 6200 rpm
Torque: 254 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4700 rpm
Drive Type: FWD
Turning Circle: 36.7 ft.
0-60mph: 6.8 seconds
Fuel Data
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 19 mpg / 27 mpg / 22 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 351.5 mi. / 499.5 mi. / 407 mi

Volvo has unveiled its revised C30 and C30 DRIVe models this week showing all-new frontal styling, interior upgrades and a new look rear on both exciting models.

he “bold is beautiful” C30, as Volvo calls it, offers more dramatic styling with cleaner, more fluid lines thanks mostly to its all-new front end. Since going on sale in Australia in 2007, the Volvo C30 has become a favourite niche model for buyers keen on the car’s distinctive styling, bold looks and signature rear end – itself sculpted to recapture the striking glass tailgate of Volvo’s own P1800 model of the 1970s.

Upfront, the revised C30 boasts a larger Volvo iron mark in the new honeycombe grille, the bumper too now colour coded lower to emphasise the car’s “visual volume”.
The new look brings the C30 in line with other models in the latest generation Volvo range, including the strong selling Volvo XC60 SUV, Volvo S80 sedan, Volvo V70 wagon and Volvo XC70.

“By integrating greater depth into the design language, the front has become more dramatic and expressive,” explains Volvo’s exterior chief designer, Fedde Talsma.
“Along with the angled lines of the front bumper, new headlamps, drawn offset and up, reinforce the impression of speed and sportiness.”

The all-new headlamps Mr Talsma refers to are now gracefully upswept into the front guards with larger air vents contributing to a more extroverted look.

Complimenting the exterior changes, two new alloy wheel designs are also offered including 16-inch ‘Convector’ and 17-inch ‘Styx White’ wheels, the latter a throwback to the 1980s.
Additionally, two new colours join the palette, Orange Flame Metallic (pictured above and below) and Lime Grass Green, taking the total number of available colours to 13.

Retaining C30’s iconic rear end styling, changes here are simple and few. A revised rear bumper featuring lower-set black panels aim to bring the body closer to the road surface (as at the front) while LED brake lights are now also included.
The new C30 range also gains Volvo’s Emergency Brake Light (EBL) system. Active at speeds over 60km/h, EBL pulses the brake lights at a rate of five times per second if the brakes are applied forcefully, such as during an emergency stop. Once the vehicle’s speed is reduced to 10km/h, the brake lights stop flashing and the hazard lights are activated. The hazard lights can then be manually deactivated, or will cancel themselves once the vehicle speed again reaches 10km/h.

Inside, the C30’s revised cabin offers buyers a infinite range of colour combinations, including the new Oyster Burst Deco texture for the centre stack and door panel inlays.
This new, distinctive grey/white finish replicates the classic Swedish Hagstrom guitars, as made famous by the likes of Jimmy Hendrix, Frank Zappa and Elvis Presley. The finish is darker on the edges than it is in the middle giving a feeling of depth (a little hard to see in the photo provided).

New surfaces are also found through out the C30’s cabin including a honeycombe-style aluminium trim that adds greater visual depth and contributes to scratch resistance.
A new rear luggage compartment cover also includes new material and new graphic pattern. The split panel allows easy access to the cargo area for small parcels and can be fully opened or even removed when carrying larger items. Split fold rear seats are also included as standard.

Maintaining Volvo’s strong reputation for safety, the revised C30 range includes as standard dual front and side airbags, full-length curtain airbags as well as the WHIPS whiplash protection system for front seat passengers.
The SIPS Side Impact Protection System is also featured, acting in unison with side and curtain airbags to protect occupants in the event of a side impact.
ABS braking with EBA and EBD plus ESP with Traction Control are also offered as standard, earning the Volvo C30 a maximum possible five-star ANCAP safety rating.

The new Volvo C30 range offers customers a range of engine choices including the new 1.6-litre turbo-diesel DRIVe variant, which we’ll touch on in a moment, a 2.4-litre five-cylinder naturally aspirated petrol verion, 2.0-litre) turbo-diesel, and 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo-petrol (as pictured below).

The top-shelf performance enhanced T5 range is now headed by the new T5 R-Design model (as pictured) that evolves the sporty character of the C30 thanks to revised suspension and steering settings.

Powered by a turbocharged five-cylinder petrol engine (169kW/320Nm), the T5 models also feature Volvo’s Sport Chassis as standard. The chassis offers 30 per cent stiffer springs, firmer monotube shock-absorbers and stiffer stabiliser bars, the C30 T5 R-Design also gains faster-ratio steering and new 17-inch ‘Cratus’ alloy wheels.

As well as the Sport Chassis, which is available as an option throughout the C30 range (for $800), the Volvo C30 T5 R-Design also includes colour-coded front and rear spoilers and side skirts, plus chrome-plated 90mm exhaust outlets.

Inside the revised cabin a leather wrapped steering wheel, leather/aluminium gearknob, aluminium sport pedals, embossed R-Design seats and distinctive blue instrumentation are included.

A wide range of individualisation is also extended to the R-Design model with a large selection of colour and trim options available.

Two added option packages are also available with the Teknik Pack and Komfort Pack.

Teknik Pack ($3700):

• Satellite Navigation
• Blind Spot Identification System (BLIS)
• Active Bending Lights (Dual Xenon)
• Rear Park Assist
• Bluetooth Connectivity
• Headlamp Washer System

Komfort Pack ($2275 on T5 / $2600 on 2.4i and 2.0D):

• Keyless Entry
• Rain Sensing Wipers
• Auto Dimming Mirror
• Laminated Side Windows
• Heated Front Seats
• Electric Drivers Seat or Passenger Seat

“The Volvo C30 has always been a car with a destinct personality,” says Volvo Car Australia managing director, Alan Desselss.
“The new range offers more choice than ever before in a refreshed package that reinforces the vehicle’s visual and emotion appeal.”

In a move to offer buyers a more environmentally-friendly C30, Volvo has also introduced the C30 DRIVe to its revised lineup. The new model featuring a frugal 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine developing 80kW/240Nm.
The best-in-class fuel economy and CO2 emissions see C30 DRIVe deliver combined cycle fuel consumption of just 3.8L/100km while emitting just 99 grams of CO2 per kilometre. Volvo says the result are enough to net the car a 1300-kilometre range from a single 52-litre tank of diesel fuel.

Including ‘Stop/Start’ technology, which switches the engine off when the car is at standstill, the C30 DRIVe also includes a regenerative recharge system to charge the battery as the vehicle brakes, low rolling resistance tyres and fuel saving aerodynamic alloy wheels.
As well, a wind-deflecting panel behind the car’s grille improves airflow around the engine. Wind deflectors are also fitted forward of the car’s front wheels.
Underbody panels and a revised front and rear spoiler also help improve the car’s aerodynamics.

To assist the engine in achieving better fuel economy when cruising, transmission ratios for third, fourth and fifth gears have also been altered. The Volvo C30 DRIVe is only available with a five-speed manual gearbox. Volvo said it has now plans to offer the car with an automatic transmission at this stage.
Like the rest of the range, the Volvo C30 DRIVe also includes a high level of safety features for a five-star ANCAP safety rating. The interior trim materials are all selected to comply with strict Oeko-Tex Standard 100 guidelines, an international benchmark for human ecological safety of textiles.
CarAdvice will bring you a full road test of the new C30 models over the coming weeks. Stay tuned.
Volvo C30 DRIVe specifications:

• Engine: 1560cc DOHC four-cylinder turbo-diesel (16 valve)
• Power: 80kW @ 4000rpm
• Torque: 240Nm @ 1750rpm
• Fuel Consumption: 3.8L/100km (Combined)
• CO2 Emissions: 99g/km
• 0-100km/h: 11.3 seconds
• Top Speed: 190km/h

Volvo C30 2.4i S specifications:

• Engine: 2435cc DOHC five-cylinder petrol (20 valve)
• Power: 125kW @ 6000rpm
• Torque: 230Nm @ 4400rpm
• Fuel Consumption: 8.4L/100km (Combined)
• CO2 Emissions: 200g/km
• 0-100km/h: 8.1 seconds
• Top Speed: 220km/h

Volvo C30 2.0D specifications:

• Engine: 1997cc DOHC four-cylinder turbo-diesel (16 valve)
• Power: 100kW @ 4000rpm
• Torque: 320Nm @ 2000rpm
• Fuel Consumption: 5.9L/100km (Combined)
• CO2 Emissions: 156g/km
• 0-100km/h: 9.5 seconds
• Top Speed: 205km/h

Volvo C30 T5 & C30 T5 R-Design specifications:

• Engine: 2435cc DOHC five-cylinder turbo-petrol (20 valve)
• Power: 169kW @ 5000rpm
• Torque: 320Nm @ 1500-5000rpm
• Fuel Consumption: 8.7L/100km (Combined)
• CO2 Emissions: 208g/km
• 0-100km/h: 6.7 seconds
• Top Speed: 240km/h

Volvo C30 Pricing:

• Volvo C30 1.6 DRIVe: $36,150 (M)
• Volvo C30 2.4i S: $34,950 (M) / $36,450 (A)
• Volvo C30 2.0D Powershift: $37,950 (A)
• Volvo C30 T5: $43,450 (M) / $44,950 (A)
• Volvo C30 T5 R-Design: $47,150 (M) / $48,650 (A)