Окончание. Начало здесь

С5 седан

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Оригинальный и комфортабельный конкурент Ford Mondeo
Результаты тестов: Выше среднего

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Базовые модели с бензиновыми двигателями ничего из себя не представляют, так что бери 2.2 HDi VTR+
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: C5 – это классический Ситроен. Выглядит классно, но такой же спортивный, как дохляк, который прогуливал уроки физкультуры. Комфортабельная и удобная баржа.
Наш выбор: 2.2 HDi Exclusive
Секрет фирмы: У базовых моделей нет гидроподвески.
Вердикт: Ошибиться невозможно.
Конкуренты: Skoda Superb
Результаты тестов : Средне
Одним словом: Хорошо

TOPGEAR

О модели: Мы в шоке! Ситроен выпустил большой семейный автомобиль без своей фирменной гидроподвески! Шо деется люди, шо деется-то! Только не спеши топиться от тоски, ты можешь заказать ее из списка опционального оборудования. Кстати, машина совсем неплоха и даже может, наверное, поколебать стереотипы о французском автопроме.
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: Дизель
Не обманывайся насчет: кнопки Sport. Динамичной эту машину назвать трудно.
Конкуренты: Ford Mondeo, Renault Laguna, Mazda6, Vauxhall/Opel Insignia

WHATCAR

За: Стильный семейный автомобиль и более комфортабельный притом чем большинство конкурентов. Отличные дизели и подвеска очень комфортная. Можно получить серьезную скидку.
Против : Руль не очень информативный и поведение на дороге не так чтоб очень. Приборная доска слишком необычна. Не настолько практичен как лучшие машины в этом классе. Плохо держит цену на вторичке.
Вердикт: Выглядит прекрасно и немногие конкуренты настолько хороши в плане комфорта. Обрати внимание на то,что эта машина плохо держит цену на вторичке, странную приборную доску и не особенно хорошую управляемость.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Хорошо
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Хорошо
Наш выбор: 2.0 HDi 140 VTR+ SatNav

С5 универсал

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Комфортабельный автомобиль, но не очень вместительный.
Результаты тестов: Выше среднего

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Нет мнения
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: см С5 седан

TOPGEAR

О модели: см С5 седан

За: Стильный семейный универсал и более комфортабельный, чем большинство из конкурентов. Отличные дизели и подвеска очень комфортная. Можно получить серьезную скидку.
Против : Руль не очень информативный и поведение на дороге не так чтоб очень. Приборная доска слишком необычна. Не настолько практичен как лучшие машины в этом классе. Плохо держит цену на вторичке. Объем багажника не очень велик.
Вердикт: Выглядит прекрасно и немногие конкуренты настолько хороши в плане комфорта. Обрати внимание на то,что эта машина плохо держит цену на вторичке, странную приборную доску и не особенно хорошую управляемость.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Хорошо
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Хорошо
Наш выбор: 2.0 HDi 140 VTR+ SatNav

С6

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Очень интересный автомобиль, но цену на вторичке не держит абсолютно.
Результаты тестов: Хорошо

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Нет мнения
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: Вальяжный автомобиль, которому мы выдали дополнительные баллы за то, что он не копирует BMW. Красивая, отличающаяся от других машина. Ее редко встретишь на дороге, а цена на вторичке на нее падает как рождаемость среди коренных французов.
Наш выбор: 2.2 HDi
Секрет фирмы: Вогнутое заднее стекло – самоочищающееся. В теории.
Вердикт: Галлический символ.
Конкуренты: Renault Laguna Coupe
Результаты тестов : Средне
Одним словом: Хорошо

TOPGEAR

О модели: Выглядит тааак круто, как только могут быть крутыми галлы. Типа Астерикса. Добавь к этому отличные ходовые качества и получится неожиданно выглядящий ответ французов немецким узурпаторам сектора дорогих машин.
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: 2.7 HDI
Не обманывайся насчет: разговоров о том, что эта машина будет хорошо держать цену. Щассс… лучше купи себе годовалую машину и сэкономишь полцены.
Конкуренты: Chrysler 300C, Audi A6, Volvo S80

WHATCAR

За: Очень сильно отличается от всех других машин на дороге. На выбор предлагаются два отличных дизельных двигателя. Прекрасно ведет себя на трассе.
Против : С точки зрения денежных вложений – просто катастрофа. Покупная цена очень высока, а стоимость владения еще выше. Сервисное обслуживание очень дорогое.
Вердикт: У нас нет сомнений в том, что большой Ситроен представляет собой что-то абсолютно другое, чем его конкуренты. Однако высокая стоимость владения отторгнет многих потенциальных покупателей. Покупай базовую модель.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Плохо
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Отлично
Наш выбор: 2.2 HDi 173 Автомат

С8

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Нет мнения
Результаты тестов: Не тестировали

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: 2.0 HDi LX держит цену лучше всего. А еще этот вариант самый дешевый по стоимости владения.
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: Большой и такой вместительный минивэн, что в нем есть эхо. Закатай рукава своей рубашки и осуществи свою детскую мечту стать водителем автобуса.
Наш выбор: 2.0 HDi 16v SX
Секрет фирмы: сдвигающиеся двери – полная фигня.
Вердикт: Накажи всех пятерых детей сразу. И себя тоже.
Конкуренты: Ford Galaxy
Результаты тестов : Средне
Одним словом: Плохо

TOPGEAR

О модели: Это Peugeot 807 с другим шильдиком. Что означает, что это большой, просторный и абсолютно незапоминающийся минивэн. Кстати, о чем мы только что говорили?
Позиция в рейтинге : 148 из 152
Наш выбор: Наверное 2.2 HDi SX
Не обманывайся насчет: мыслей о том, что ты хозяин жизни. Привыкай к роли родителя – они гадят, ты подтираешь…
Конкуренты: Ford Galaxy, Peugeot 807, Renault Espace

WHATCAR

За: Большой, хорошо продуманный и комфортабельный минивэн. В нем найдется место для семерых пассажиров. Двигатели очень неплохие. Он отлично ездит и управляется удивительно хорошо для машины такого размера.
Против : Из-за того, что багажник непропорционально мал, перевезти семерых людей с соответствующим багажом эта машина не может. Выглядит “никак”, а большого удовольствия от этой машины не получаешь.
Вердикт: Если тебе нужен семиместник за небольшие деньги, то на эту машину стоит обратит внимание. Но она не настолько хороша, как большинство ее конкурентов. Убедись, что ты получаешь большую скидку с рекомендованной цены.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Средне
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Средне
Наш выбор: 2.0 HDi 16v 120 LX

С-Crosser

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Нет мнения
Результаты тестов: Не тестировали

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Нет мнения
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: Это Mitsubishi Outlander с французским беретом. Но у него есть дизельный движок. Офигенно… когда сравниваешь его с кровным братом от Peugeot. Внутри он – типичный Mitsubishi.
Наш выбор: HDi VTR+
Секрет фирмы: Шасси имеет что-то общее с Mitsubishi Evolution X.
Вердикт: Меньшее из трех зол (Outlander, C-Crosser, 4007).
Конкуренты: Honda CR-V
Результаты тестов : Средне
Одним словом: Хорошо

TOPGEAR

О модели: Первый ситроеновский внедорожник и совсем неплохой при этом.
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: Бери дизель и не ошибешься.
Не обманывайся насчет: Mitsubishi Outlander и Peugeot 4007. Эта троица – одна и та же машина.
Конкуренты: Mitsubishi Outlander, Peugeot 4007, Vauxhall/Opel Antara

WHATCAR

За: Машина обладает мягкими, мощными двигателями, управляется хорошо и выглядит неплохо. Внутри достаточно места для пятерых. Хороший уровень оснащения на всех моделях.
Против : Третий ряд сидений тяжело разложить и там очень мало места, так что те, кому постоянно надо возить шестерых пассажиров, должны обратить свое внимание на конкурентов. По стандартам Ситроена, цена довольно высока.
Вердикт: Один из наиболее хорошо ездящих среднеразмерных паркетников. Уровень оснащения хорош. Жаль только, что на третьем ряду очень мало места. Постарайся избегать прожорливых моделей с бензиновыми двигателями.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Средне
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Хорошо
Наш выбор: 2.2 HDi VTR+

Berlingo Multispace

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Нет мнения
Результаты тестов: Не тестировали

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: 1.6 VTR ощущается как легковая машина а не грузовой “каблучок”, да и разгоняется неплохо.
Позиция в рейтинге : 78

CAR

О модели: Если бы уровень оборудования был еще чуть-чуть ниже, то ты мог бы покрасить ее изнутри в тот цвет который тебе понравится – металл стерпит все.
Наш выбор: 1.6 HDi 90 VT
Секрет фирмы: Только у варианта XTR есть кондиционер.
Вердикт: Коммерческий автомобиль с окнами.
Конкуренты: C3 Picasso
Результаты тестов : Хорошо
Одним словом: Хорошо

TOPGEAR

О модели: На этой колымаге мы бы в Испанию не поехали, но она практична, дешева и достаточно оригинальна в качестве семейного транспорта. Мало найдется машин, которые предложат столько для семейного человека, да еще и за такие деньги.
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: Мощный дизель.
Не обманывайся насчет: Разгона. Эти фиговины медленные.
Конкуренты: Skoda Roomster, Mercedes Vaneo, грузовик.

WHATCAR

За: За цену супермини можно купить машину, которая предлагает необъятные просторы салона. И, что немаловажно, ездит она совсем неплохо
Против : Автомобиль этот был разработан с одной целью – стать пассажирским вариантом коммерческого “каблучка” и это чувствуется. Уровень оснащения очень низок, особенно в части безопасности на всех базовых версиях.
Вердикт: Если тебе нужна простая, практичная и вместительная семейная машина за небольшие деньги, Berlingo может стать неплохим выбором. Не бери дохлые бензиновые двигатели, если планируешь регулярно перевозить тяжелые грузы.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Средне
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Хорошо
Наш выбор: 1.6 90 VTR

Nemo

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Нет мнения
Результаты тестов: Не тестировали

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Нет мнения
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: Нет мнения

TOPGEAR

О модели: “Каблучок” с окнами, который назвали в честь мультяшной рыбы. Как тебе такое? Berlingo больше этой тачки, которая просто уменьшенная его версия. Типа папа-рыба и рыба-дитенок.
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: Самый мощный дизель.
Не обманывайся насчет: диснеевских историй. От них иногда плачут даже взрослые.
Конкуренты: FIAT Qubo

WHATCAR

За: Дешев при покупке, обслуживании и страховании. Отличная простая семейная машина – это больше, чем просто коммерческий автомобиль с окнами.
Против : Уровень стандартного оборудования минимален. Задние сидения узкие, а багажник короткий. Выбирай дизельные двигатели.
Вердикт: Разработчики явно сориентировались на снижение стоимости машины для тех, кому нужен простой, без наворотов, транспорт из точки А в точку Б. Но небольшие размеры машины ограничили их возможности и она не получилась особо практичной.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Средне
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Нет мнения
Наш выбор: Нет мнения

Xsara Picasso

AUTOCAR

Наше мнение: Нет мнения
Результаты тестов: Не тестировали

AUTOEXPRESS

Наш выбор: Нет мнения
Позиция в рейтинге : Не участвует

CAR

О модели: Нет мнения

TOPGEAR

О модели: Древний компактвэн, который все еще может конкурировать на рынке, особенно в дизельном варианте. В это трудно поверить, но их все еще делают, так что вперед, торговаться!
Позиция в рейтинге : Нет в рейтинге
Наш выбор: 1.6 HDi
Не обманывайся насчет: первого “самого лучшего” предложения. Продолжай выдавливать скидки из продавцов.
Конкуренты: Ford Focus C-Max, Honda FR-V, Vauxhall/Opel Zafira, VW Touran

WHATCAR

За: Практичный, вместительный и дешевый автомобиль. Скидки на него просто неимоверные (минимум 30%, а то и все 50%). Им легко управлять. Машина достаточно комфортабельна и обладает очень мягкой подвеской.
Против : Машина сильно устарела и это ощущается во всем, с ее наидешевейшими пластиковыми деталями отделки салона. Внешний вид также не добавит ей очков в конкурсе красоты. Тот же С4 Picasso ненамного дороже, но на голову выше с точки зрения качества. Цена на вторичке ниже плинтуса.
Вердикт: Если тебе нужен дешевый, просторный автомобиль для семьи, то Xsara Picasso вполне может таковым стать. Но в наше время она уже настолько устарела, что проигрывает конкурентам во всем.
Рейтинг для лучшей модификации: Средне
Рейтинг модели по версии читателей журнала: Средне
Наш выбор: 1.6 HDi Desire

По материалам AutoCar, AutoExpress, Car, TopGear и WhatCar. Фотографии утянуты с WhatCaк

Photographed by VOD Cars

Going through time

– License

For those of you out there who have never heard of Spyker then please let this be your introduction. Spyker is a small auto manufacturer from Holland whose sole intent is to produce some of the most beautiful, best performing and unique automobiles on the planet. A few weeks ago I got a call from Vinny Russo, Spyker’s Dealer Relations Manager asking me if I wanted to participate in a track test of Spyker’s new Aileron up at Monticello Raceway in Monticello, New York. I instantly jumped at the chance.

Continue reading after the jump!

I was first introduced to Spyker on a cross country rally back in 2007. It was the first time I had ever seen one in person and my first impression was simply… WTF is that? But in a good way. Visually, these automobiles are a virtual feast for the eyes, as the attention to detail, both inside and out, is simply amazing. Climb into the cockpit of a Spyker and you don’t feel as though you’ve entered a car, you feel like you’ve put on a smoking jacket. Simply put, these cars are dead sexy.  half expected a playmate to slide in next me simply because I was in the damn thing. The interior is sublime. Crafted out of perfectly-machined aluminum the dash panel is stunning and with its grouped toggle switches, billet a/c vents and exposed shift linkage, it truly is an amazing site. Truth be told, this car probably has the most finely detailed interior ever put into an automobile.

Unfortunately the weather was less than perfect for our track sessions, but that didn’t stop anyone from having a great time. I was up at Monticello to drive a pre-production version of Spyker’s new Aileron as well as their existing C8 Laviolette. The Aileron has a longer wheelbase then the standard C8 and comes in hard top only. Like the interior, the Aileron’s exterior is also a visual feast. The aircraft inspired body lines of the Aileron pay homage to the company’s humble beginnings as an aircraft manufacturer in pre-WWI days. The lines, panel fitment and overall refined design is what make these automobiles stand out.

Driving the Aileron is another experience all together. I would consider the Aileron more of a high speed GT car then a track weapon, but even so the car was more than composed ripping through the back kink at Monticello Raceway. Power comes from a tweaked version of Audi’s 4.2 ltr. V8 and produces 400 hp which is laid down via a 6-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters. Power delivery is forceful but linear and propels the Aileron up to speed with little drama. BTW, this car will do 187 mph and 0-60 in about 4.5 sec., so for those of you who think the Aileron is all show and no go, well then, you’d be wrong.

Shifts are firm, albeit being a bit lazy, but being a GT car, it’s not really an issue. One comment I have to make is about the exhaust note – OH MY GOD does this thing sound good, so believe me when I tell you a sound system is not required. Brakes are wonderful as well with AP Racing providing the stopping power by way of six-pot calipers on 14 inch rotors.

Spyker is a lifestyle automobile, it’s the one that stands out in a sea of Ferraris and Lamborghinis. It’s the conversation piece at every gathering and the one that makes other exotics feel mundane. All cars have a purpose and Spykers is simple – blend design, craftsmanship, performance and exclusivity into a package that follows no other road than it’s own. This, I must say has been accomplished in spades and after having had the privilege of driving one, I am very much looking forward to seeing what this little company from Holland produces next.

2009-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85-2 c 1024×768 image wallpaper of 2009-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85-2 c 1024×768
to view full size click 2009-Spyker-C8-Laviolette-Lm85-2 C 1024X768 image ( 2009-Spyker-C8-Laviolette-Lm85-2 C 1024X768 image )

2009-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85 c 1024×768 picture image of 2009-spyker-c8-laviolette-lm85 c 1024×768
to view full size click 2009-Spyker-C8-Laviolette-Lm85 C 1024X768 picture ( 2009-Spyker-C8-Laviolette-Lm85 C 1024X768 picture )

2009-spyker-c8-aileron-7 c 800×1067 photo picture of 2009-spyker-c8-aileron-7 c 800×1067
to view full size click 2009-Spyker-C8-Aileron-7 C 800X1067 photo ( 2009-Spyker-C8-Aileron-7 C 800X1067 photo )

2009-spyker-c8-aileron-10 c 800×1067 wallpaper wallpaper of 2009-spyker-c8-aileron-10 c 800×1067
to view full size click 2009-Spyker-C8-Aileron-10 C 800X1067 wallpaper ( 2009-Spyker-C8-Aileron-10 C 800X1067 wallpaper )

Old episode, but new to us. We don’t particularly have eyes for the ostentatious Spyker, but this review makes for enjoyable viewing all the same.

- Gyro

Spyker C8 Spyder custa R$ 1,15 milhão e chega a 300 km/h

Até quem é fã de carros pode nunca ter ouvido falar da Spyker. Ela é daquelas fabricantes minúsculas de carros que vende menos de 200 carros no ano. No caso, a fabricante de origem holandesa é especialista em fazer superesportivos de forma artesanal.

Pois então, a marca acaba de desembarcar no Brasil. Aqui ela será representada pela loja Platinuss, em São Paulo. Uma unidade do Spyker C8 está sendo vendida na loja pela bagatela de R$ 1,24 milhão. A versão básica custa R$ 1,1 milhão.

A unidade que está na loja está mais cara porque ela conta com alguns opcionais. Entre eles, rodas de 19 polegadas e um sistema capaz de alterar o som do motor.

A marca espera vender 20 unidades no Brasil ao longo de 2010. No mundo, o número deve ficar ao redor de 160 unidades. Por aqui, além do C8 a Spyker irá vender também o Spyder, por cerca de R$ 1,3 milhão.

O motor do carro é de origem alemã, da Audi. É um V8 4.2 de 405 cv de potência. Os modelos da marca são capazes de chegar a uma velocidade final de 300 km/h e fazer de 0 a 100 km/h em apenas 4,5 segundos.

My friend sent over this video yesterday which I thought was done quite well. To launch their new C8 Aileron, C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder variants, Spyker decided to invite some VIPs out to a race park and have them thrash out some cars. The engines used are Audi-sourced 4.2 V8’s putting out 400 horsepower. But what Spyker are really known for are the exquisite details in the interiors and exteriors of their cars. You’ll see in this video that that’s not an exaggeration at all.

Enjoy the sounds!

Love it or hate it Spyker builds some of the most Beautiful cars ever. The craftsmanship, the design, the details. At first glance some of their styles may be ugly or what have you but once you sit in one and rev it up it is the most glorious car I have ever experienced – and to me is Really a dream Car in Person. Enjoy the newest of the bunch in which I think they will actually produce it.

(from Spyker Press Release) World Debut of the Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

PEBBLE BEACH, California (15 August 2009) – Spyker Cars, manufacturer of exclusive, hand-crafted sports cars since 2000, today introduced the first prototype of the Spyder version of its all-new second-generation sports car, the Spyker C8 Aileron. The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder was unveiled at the Spyker lounge on Peter Hay Hill on Saturday, and subsequently displayed on the concept lawn at the 59th Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday.

Spyker Cars announced the development of a convertible C8 Aileron Spyder in March at the Geneva Auto Show, during the introduction of the production version of the Spyker C8 Aileron. The car presented today is the first prototype for the open-top model, scheduled to go into production in the first half of 2010.

“Spyker Cars has taken the next step in our short but intense history with the launch of our second-generation sports car,” said Victor R. Muller, Spyker Cars’ founder and Chief Executive Officer. “We are currently presenting the first Spyker C8 Ailerons to customers, dealers and press around the world, and the response has been very enthusiastic.”

“The C8 Aileron Spyder is a logical extension to our range of vehicles, since we have both hard-top and convertible versions of the short-wheelbase model,” said Muller. “The Aileron Spyder will offer open-top motoring along with all the usual Spyker characteristics, striking aviation-inspired styling and hand-crafted quality, based on the exclusive use of noble materials.”

The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder

The Spyker C8 Aileron Spyder sports a high-quality, semi-automatic canvas soft-top. The roof’s operation is electric/hydraulic, secured by one central latch operated manually.

Once folded, the soft-top is totally enclosed within the body of the car, allowing for an undisturbed profile. The roof retracts under an aluminium tonneau, with two buttresses upholstered in quilted Hulshof leather (matching the car’s interior) and featuring the company’s motto “Nulla Tenaci Invia Est Via” (“For the tenacious, no road is impassable”). The soft top has a glass rear window and is available in eight colours.

The Aileron Spyder features a luggage rack, CNC-machined from solid billets of aluminium, mounted immediately behind the roll hoops, on which a wing-shaped aluminium case is strapped. The case is trimmed in the same quilted leather as the interior and buttresses.

Spyker C8 Aileron: the new-generation Spyker

The Spyker C8 Aileron is an advanced mid-engine, two-seat sports car, featuring a longer wheelbase than Spyker’s existing sports cars, the C8 Laviolette and convertible C8 Spyder. The Aileron is characterized by a distinctive design, lightweight all-aluminium body construction and an uncompromising engineering package. The Spyker C8 Aileron is hand-crafted, using only the finest bespoke materials to create a unique automotive statement.

The Aileron features an all-aluminium V8 engine producing 400 bhp and generating 354 lbs of torque at 3,400 rpm. The engine is paired to a manual six-speed gearbox, driving the rear wheels via a limited slip differential. For the first time, Spyker is offering an optional automatic transmission on the C8 Aileron. The Aileron delivers a top speed of 300km/h (187 mph) and accelerates from standstill to 60 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.

Optional features include a turned aluminium dashboard fascia, elegant 19-inch directional rotor wheels, branded Rotorblade(TM), quilted leather detailing for the cockpit and Chronoswiss dashboard instruments. Additionally, complete custom and unique finishes are available for the experienced connoisseur. Customers may also order a 5-piece Louis Vuitton luggage set exclusively made for Spyker.

Chassis

The Spyker C8 Aileron’s all-aluminium space frame was completely redesigned with the objective to increase torsional rigidity and to incorporate an all-new suspension system designed and supplied by Lotus. These characteristics provide an ideal foundation for enhanced vehicle dynamics.

Moreover, the C8 Aileron’s dimensions have been optimised for more interior space and to accommodate the optional automatic gearbox. Compared to the short wheelbase of the first-generation cars – the Spyker C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder – the wheelbase of the C8 Aileron is 150 mm longer, providing more driving comfort and stability at high speeds. Its front track has increased by 6.1 inches (155 mm). The total dimensions of the front and rear track are now 63.98 inches (1625 mm) and 64.76 inches (1645 mm) respectively, which improves road handling significantly.

Spyker has put tremendous effort in the spaceframe performance of the C8 Aileron, specifically the structure’s efficiency. The utilisation of modern finite elements and numerical optimisation methods has allowed Spyker’s engineers to arrive at an exceptionally stiff structure of 29.500Nm/degree. Rigid-node and load-path technology has been employed in order to ensure that the minimum amount of aluminium is used to achieve this performance, thus reducing the overall weight of the vehicle. The dynamic stiffness characteristics of the structure have been carefully tuned in order to minimise unwanted cabin noises and vibrations, which may otherwise detract from the driving experience. These technologies and measures have allowed Spyker to arrive at the most efficient chassis in its history and certainly one of the best in class.

Design

The design of the hand-crafted Spyker C8 Aileron and Aileron Spyder represents the latest evolution of Spyker’s signature architecture, which is heavily inspired by the company’s aviation heritage. In the first-generation cars, the propeller design was consistently applied to many elements of the vehicles. Within the design of the new Spyker C8 Aileron, the emphasis was shifted from the propeller propulsion to the turbine propulsion. As a result, for instance, the bright polished air inlets were converted into turbine-engine-shaped air scoops.

In order to enhance the aerodynamic performance of the car, several changes in styling were made. Most of the shark-like gills have been abandoned, which results in a cleaner, smoother appearance. The front end is now characterized by a larger grille that allows additional cooling. Also the rear diffuser was redesigned for improved functionality. An extra spoiler has been placed under the diffuser, providing additional down force to boost the ground effect produced by the diffuser.

Sometimes practicality gains over design: the split side windows with the characteristic metal frame have been replaced by single-pane side windows that are fully retractable, improving driving comfort.

The outside mirrors, standard in body colour, were redesigned and the mirror body is mounted on two turbine fan blades.

The rear lights are made of LEDs (light-emitting diodes). LED lights were also used for the indicators and the sidelights in the redesigned headlight units. The style of the headlights is particularly eye-catching as they follow the body design more closely. This characteristic styling can be defined as a part of the (future) Spyker identity first seen on the Spyker C12 Laturbie and subsequently in the Spyker D8 Peking-to-Paris, which will use the identical headlight units to those of the Aileron.

The C8 Aileron Spyder is available in 16 standard colours, but customers may choose any colour they wish as an option, as well as the Spyker Squadron GT2 colour scheme. The standard colours have been developed by Sikkens Autolakken Nederland and AkzoNobel Car Refinishes. Spyker selected these companies because of their high quality standards and their ability to meet special requirements. Some of the standard colours have been created especially for the C8 Aileron.

Drivetrain

The Spyker C8 Aileron uses the Audi 4.2 litre V8 engine, delivering 400 bhp and is available with two transmission alternatives. The first one is a 6-speed Getrag manual gearbox, with ratios perfectly matched to the V8 engine. A ZF 6-speed automatic gearbox is optional, which comes standard with paddle shifts behind the steering wheel. Both transmissions retain Spyker’s trademark exposed gear change mechanism.

Interior

Thanks to its longer chassis, the Spyker C8 Aileron has more interior space, which results in a higher comfort level and improved ergonomics. The interior, with its signature Spyker attention to detail, is made of the highest quality leather, from the Litano range of the Dutch Royal Tannery Hulshof. The leather interior is available in 14 standard colours, but any other colour – if desired by the customer – can be ordered as an option.

The brushed aluminium dashboard was completely redesigned to suit the new Spyker identity and to improve ergonomics and functionality, including driver and passenger airbags. Air vents are designed in turbine style and the performance and distribution of the air conditioning was improved significantly. A multifunctional LCD display is integrated between the speedometer and the odometer. The middle console accommodates the standard Kharma sound system (see In-Car Entertainment). A turned aluminium dashboard, as well as Chronoswiss (Spyker’s watch manufacturing partner) dials and switches, are available as an option.

More space was created around the Spyker’s characteristic floor-mounted pedal box. The impression of professional functionality and ergonomic styling is enhanced by the optimised positioning of the door handle and the hand-brake lever.

In-Car Entertainment

With more cars going into the market and the increased popularity of the iPod and similar products, demand rose for a standard factory-fitted sound system. As a result, every Spyker C8 Aileron will feature a Kharma audio system as standard equipment, incorporating a digital radio, Bluetooth interface, iPod connectivity and a navigation system. The Kharma sound system offers a turbine-shaped control mounted on the central gearlever bar and a dashboard display, paired to six Kharma loudspeakers. It can be upgraded with an optional audio package.

The presence of a Kharma sound system in the Spyker C8 Aileron marks Kharma’s debut in the world of automotive entertainment. Kharma International produces high-end audio products, sold worldwide through a network of highly qualified distributors and dealers. All Kharma sound systems are developed, assembled and tested in the Netherlands, with the utmost care by a team of highly engaged specialists. These characteristics of high-quality products and exclusiveness are fully in line with Spyker’s brand values of craftsmanship and exclusivity.

Suspension & Wheels

The C8 Aileron is fitted with a brand new front and rear independent double-wishbone suspension system developed by Lotus. The new suspension system includes a new kinematic layout of the front and rear suspension, front and rear stabilizer bars, mono-tube dampers, coil over damper steel springs, anti-dive and anti-squat setup for improved handling properties. The suspension components are made of forged aluminium where possible, to keep the vehicle’s unsprung weight as low as possible. Shock absorbers are placed vertically within the wishbones.

The Aeroblade(TM) wheels of the first-generation cars are replaced by newly-designed 19-inch alloy wheels. New 12-blade, 19-inch directional rotor wheels, branded Rotorblade(TM), are available as an option. These wheels are inspired by the turbine blades of a jet engine, which hints at the new styling direction while respecting the aviation heritage. The 235/35 size tires in front and up to 295/30 at the rear provide exceptional handling.

Brakes

The C8 Aileron’s brakes are supplied by AP Racing, a partner from day one. Black brake callipers with Spyker script are standard. Colour-coded callipers with Spyker script can be ordered as an option. Carbon ceramic brakes will be available as an option soon.

Warranty

The Spyker C8 Aileron comes with an unlimited 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Las familias de hoy en día prefieren adquirir un tipo de vehículo que está muy de moda: el manovolúmen monovolúmen. La marca preferida por las personas que adquieren un vehículo de estas características es Citroën. La francesa es la que más monovolúmenes vende, con un 26,13% de las matriculaciones. Quizá este dato sea favorecido por la gran gama que posee en este sector: C3 Picasso, Xsara Picasso, C4 Picasso, Grand C4 Picasso y C8. También posee un par de vehículos comerciales que son considerados ‘monovolúmenes polivalentes’, los modelos Nemo y Berlingo, con capacidad mixta de transporte de carga y pasajeros.

Los compradores de Citroën -según un comunicado de prensa de la marca- destacan su modularidad, sus propulsores con pocas emisiones y consumo reducido, equipamiento, diseño, capacidad y precio. La mayoría de las versiones de sus monovolúmenes pueden acogerse al Plan 2000E, con motorizaciones de gasolina de 90 a 150 cv -desarrolladas entre Citroën y BMW- y motores HDI de 70 a 170 cv.

Citroën también ha cedido vehículos de toda su gama de monovolúmenes a profesionales de la prensa para que adquieran alimentos y después los donen a la ONG Banco de Alimentos. Este evento es conocido como I Raid La Mejor Compra. Los periodistas vencedores serán aquellos que mejor compra realicen como resultado del aprovechamiento del presupuesto y la capacidad del maletero del vehículo que conduzcan.

Fuente> Citroën Presse

Het van oorsprong Zweedse bedrijf Mytobii heeft in de wereld al veel naam opgebouwd op het gebied van oogbesturing, maar levert nu ook een klein dynamisch communicatiemiddel, waar de Nederlandse markt behoefte aan heeft; er is namelijk niet veel keus in dit soort apparatuur. De firma Kompagne is in ieder geval geinteresseerd. Klik voor meer informatie hier.
Het apparaat is voorzien van alle moderne technologie. In feite is het een lichtgewicht (nog geen 2 kilo) en zeer degelijk uitgevoerde ’slate’.

Tomorrow morning I will drive our Vauxhall Zafira down to Farnham’s Citroen dealer and come back with a Citroen C8.

I will be sad to leave the car we’ve had for the last 2 years on the forecourt. It served us well but, my wife being a childminder, the extra seat will soon be filled. The C8, as most of the Citroens are, is a great family centred car. We had a Xsara Picasso, well actually we’ve had 2 of them and loved the way they had traps in the floor, storage everywhere, large gap in between the seats, stupidly large boot, removeable seats…

The fact that Citroen is made in France is a pure coincidence. No…! Really!!!

Vive la France!!! Hum..

Welcome back to day two of our fresh, seat-of-the-pants coverage of the New York Auto Show. Without further ado:

Mitsubishi, 9:40 a.m.: The i-MIEV electric kei-car is inching closer to production. Come on – I saw this last year. But they’ve got range estimates now! 75-100 miles on a single charge, and only 12-14 hours to charge from a 110 volt outlet! Well, the thing’s basically a Matchbox car. How many AAs does it take to run the thing? Couldn’t you just swap them out like I do with my mouse?

It's actually tofu flavored.

It’s always amusing to watch the American presenters follow the foreign ones – especially when they’re forced to awkwardly thank them by tripping over the alien language. But when the foreigners do it, it’s endearing. So I guess that’s how it comes off to them.

The spokesperson says Mitsubishi isn’t going to try to be everything to everyone anymore. Well, I’m sure Porsche and Ferrari are relieved they don’t have to sweat that any longer.

The Lancer Sportback is for people with “active lifestyles.” Well, remember folks – Genghis Khan had an active, outdoor lifestyle.

And the sheet comes off the new Outlander SUV concept. Meh. Plain vanilla. (Seriously, couldn’t they have painted it something more exciting than white?)

Subaru, 10:10 a.m.: Note to Subaru – when you’re going to unveil a new model for the first time, as you’re planning with the Legacy today, don’t  leave one of them sitting right next to the throng of journalists. Even if it’s cut up so you can see inside, half the sheetmetal’s still enough to ruin the surprise.

Couldn't you have thrown a sheet over it, or something?

Another fancy countdown…how about you just start the damn thing sixty seconds earlier and save the money!

Subie sales were UP in 2008? Significantly? And they’re up so far in ‘09? Shit, they need to make this the cornerstone of their marketing campaign or something. “Subaru: The Official Car of the Great Recession.” Wait…maybe not.

Wow, the teleprompter actually says “(smile)” for the presenter’s benefit. I’m sure he appreciates that. Just put marionette strings on him, already.

The 2010 Legacy gets three engines: a 170-hp four, a 265-hp turbo four, and a 256-hp six. Um…may I ask why you need all three of them? Second note, Subaru – if your six-cylinder engine makes fewer horsepower than your four-cylinder, don’t offer the damn six cylinder.

And here it is! Not bad, not bad. Kind of looks like an Infiniti G37, but you could do worse. back end’s a little frumpy – I kinda hoped for something sportier.

One...

...or two?

Wait, there’s a surprise for us? It’s the equally new 2010 Outback! All of New England just burst into cheers! But not until we get a slideshow of the Outback’s history.

YES! SHOWING PAUL HOGAN SOME LOVE! But calling him “some Australian guy…” Come on. Not only did he make you in America…he’s Crocodile Dundee. He’s like Steve Irwin’s superbadass alter ego.

Maybe I’m just sappy, but the promo video featuring a happy couple exploring and adventuring through green meadows and across mountains actually made me want to buy an Outback. I’d buy into that fantasy.

Wow! It looks really different from the Legacy. But it looks good…even though it looks a lot taller – almost like an SUV now – it works for it.

Come on, throw Paul Hogan a bone and rehire him. God knows he's not doing anything else.

Kia, 10:40 a.m.: VP Michael Sprague walks on stage, not to generic music, but to the hook from “Get On Your Boots.” They cut out before Bono started singing, so I’m happy. (Seriously, sexy boots? Why am I listening to a 48-year-old man singing about sexy boots?)

Kia had a party last night? Why don’t I ever hear about the goddamn parties?!?

Kia’s plan is to become a “world-class U.S. manufacturer,” and they’re opening a new plant in Georgia. You know things are bad when G.M. is shutting American plants while Kia is opening them.

They think we car journalists are asking, “Where do [new Kia designs] come from? What inspires them?” Dude, we’re asking two questions these days: “How fucked are you?” and “Is this an open bar?”

Oh, I get it now. They’re sticking the designers who penned the cars on the stage into those egg-shaped seats from Men In Black and telling us they’re mind-reading chairs that will show us what they’re thinking on the screen. Actual humor? Wow, this is refreshing.

Even though you have to be 18 to enter the press days, these guys keep their thoughts strictly PG. Not even some side-boob.

Apparently, the Kia Soul is inspired by a boar wearing a backpack. I couldn’t make that up if I tried.

The new Forte sedan is supposed to attract “younger buyers” – which apparently means Miley Cyrus, according to the designer’s “brain imagery.” Yeah, because 12-year-olds really buy cars…

I’m sorry? Miley Cyrus fans are old enough now to drive? And some to vote? I’m officially old. And quickly growing crotchety.

Off goes the cover over the Forte coupe…and it looks good! Like a Civic. I mean, really like a Civic.

Wait, they’re spelling it “Koup?” Are they “krazie?” “Koup” sounds like some generic microwaveable ramen.

Even "Kia Forte Sexy Boots" would have been better.

But you can get it with a 173 horsepower four attached to a six-speed stick that gets 22/32 mpg, and comes with standard six-speaker stereo and bluetooth. Guess most people will just chip off that “Koup” lettering.

Mazda, 11:15 a.m.: Looks like they’re just announcing some mild updates to the CX-7 and CX-9 SUVs. Screw it – I’m gonna walk around.

Wow, this Volvo XC60 is actually really nice. Roomy, seats five easily, extremely safe…do they really need the big old XC90 anymore?

The Lincoln MKT - their version of the Ford Flex – looks just as good as the Flex. Maybe better. The Flex is a bit too blocky for me. But Lord, this thing is long.

But it has an incredibly kickass stereo. THX custom-made it for the MKT, and…shit. It’s better than most home theatre setups I’ve heard. I might buy this car just for the stereo.

TURN IT UP! TURN IT UP!

Oh, shit – time for-

Honda, 11:45 a.m.: Just one model on the stage – the Element. It says it’s a concept, but it looks just like any other Element. But there’s a giant sign that says “Dog Friendly” above the car, and fifteen-foot high paws made of LEDs beside it. Is this really…

Next year: the first car for LOLCat lovers.

…yes, they’ve made a car optimized for dogs. With a special pet bed strapped in back, a doggie ramp that extends from the tailgate, machine washable rear seat covers, a spill-resistant water bowl, and a fan in back for the dog. It even comes with an Element collar and leash. And it goes on sale this fall.

I love you, Honda.

And holy shit, is that…yes, they actually brought an adorable dog to show it off. And his owner’s from the Humane Society. Not his handler – his actual owner. Well played, Honda, well played. The one surefire way to crack cynical journalists? Dogs.

In Honda's defense, he likes sitting like that.

Lunchtime, 12:00 p.m.: Trying out a couple Bentleys. First up, the Continental GTC convertible. Very comfy. Stereo’s not as good as the Lincoln (and I never thought I’d say that). Good car to drive across the country in. I probably wouldn’t buy it, though – not really sporty enough for me.

So over to the new Supersports.

Holy shit, manual seat controls?!? This would be odd on a car that cost $27,000 – but this Bentley costs ten times that. I love it.

Bucket seats are hard and grabby, too, like your perverted uncle. Thankfully, these are a little easier to live with. But I still wouldn’t want to drive more than fifty miles in them. Or so it seems now – extended real-world testing will be needed to learn more. How about it, Bentley?

There’s suede everywhere. Not that Alcantara microsuede shit – real suede, the kind you gotta take to the dry cleaners if it gets wet. Putting it on the steering wheel seems like the sort of thing someone would do if they had the money to launder their steering wheel every time their hands get wet. Gotta love it.

Hyundai, 12:35 p.m.: Oh, Hyundai’s donated over $12 million towards fighting children’s cancer. That’s nice. Bet those other automakers are kicking themselves for not mentioning their charitable works at the top of their press conferences.

Today’s concept is called the HCD-11 Nuvis. Sounds like a gun from Starship Troopers.

Apparently it’s a hybrid powered by lithium polymer batteries, which they claim are more easily sculpted and safer than lithium-ion ones. Of course, it’s a concept car, so they could claim it’s powered by distilled gall stones or pure faith if they wanted.

Goddamn it, Hyundai, stop flashing blue rack lights in my eyes! I’m trying to watch your stupid movie!

It’s obviously a concept car, but it looks pretty good. Those gullwing doors are huge, though. The purpose of gullwings is not to create enough lift to allow flight, guys!

Cacaw!

Ah, apparently there’s an “information river” that flows through the car. Can we dam that up instead? Hell, maybe stick a generator in the dam and power the car that way.

They say the styling is “a hint and a wink” towards the next Santa Fe, which is about two years away. I feel like I might be pleasantly surprised.

Spyker, 1:05 p.m.: There’s only about thirty people here. Poor little Spyker. Went to all the trouble of building an all-new supercar, and nobody cares enough to show up.

The C8 Aileron, as it’s called, runs a 400-hp Audi V8, does 0-60 in 4.5 seconds, and costs $209,990. Sorry, guys, that’s not gonna cut it. Not when BMW’s giving us an SUV that’ll keep even with you in the sprint onto the interstate for less than half the price.

But the X6M wishes it could look like this, I bet.

You will never, ever see one of these again.

And apparently, they haven’t been hit by the recession at all! Well, that’ll probably happen when you sell five cars a year. There will always be five rich car guys.

Wandering, 1:40 p.m.: Things are winding down fast here. Time for a last sweep of the floor to see if there’s anything else worth checking out.

The Nissan GT-R? This thing could double as a Rebel Alliance fighter. X-wing, Y-wing, R-wing. Or at the very least, a landspeeder to bulls-eye whomp rats with.

According to Top Gear, it also does the Kessel Run in eleven parsecs, but everyone knows they fudged their data.

And you practically need R2-D2 to help with the electronics. There are switches for everything in here. Pilots ought to feel right at home. Kinda cheap inside, for $72 grand or so – then again, for what it does, it’s a bargain.

The new Camaro, though, is definitely chintzier than I expected. The door slams with a hollow vibration, and the interior plastics are much harder than anyone with feeling in their fingertips would like. The controls look great, just like everything else in the car – but function’s definitely riding pillion to form here, because a lot of the switches and gauges are downright awkward to use. Damn. I had such high hopes.

With all the hard plastic and nice looks, I could go for the fake boob joke here. But I won't, because I have standards.

Same goes for the new Shelby GT500 Mustang. I’d heard the new Mustangs had made leaps and bounds in terms of interior quality, but this one didn’t seem much better then the ones I’ve tried before. And this is the top-level model. It looks like a million bucks outside…but the interior in a $15,000 Honda Fit is more pleasing.

Even the new Ford Taurus SHO suffers from chintzitis. Admittedly, the interior of this one looked like it’d logged a few hard months on the car show circuit – paint peeling, colors fading, etc. Not a good sign for how it might hold up in the real world. Then again, I think both these Fords were preproduction models, so hopefully they’ll ratchet things up a notch in the production cars.

Wandering around downstairs is always creepy. There are whole sections down there where no one ever seems to go. This is usually where the big guys hide their trucks for New York. Being underground in a silent concrete bunker, alone with a bunch of trucks that don’t move? It’s like being in some Detroit bomb shelter circa 1998 nuclear attack. “Quick, save the trucks! They’ll always be profitable!”

But they usually shove a few esoteric nutter butters back here, which is worth checking out. EV Innovations? Oh, they make their own electric cars. And they convert other cars to electric, too! Hey, know what would make a Toyota Yaris great? If it cost three times as much and needed half a day to refuel!

Ooh, Confederate motorcycles. I want to make a Yankee joke, but I can’t – they’re just too cool. One of them appears to literally be an engine and wheels connected by welded steel pipe. This must be who Bruce Wayne farms out the Bat-Pod contracts to.

Imagine if there was a Confederate Batman, and he fought the regular, U.S. Batman? That would be awesome.

Finally, heading out, it’s probably worth checking out the last press conference, if just for a second…

New Jersey Motorsports Park, 2:20 p.m.: Not a single journalist appears to have come. They even set up seats, and…nobody came. I feel sorry for a moment, and think about staying just out of pity…but it’s just too weird.

You can end with this, because I certainly did.