New Volvo XC70 will feature better off-road capability

Although not an off-roader in the real sense, the all-new Volvo XC70 still offers significant cross-country capability comparing to the outgoing model. The vehicle is powered by a 185 PS D5 turbo diesel delivering 400 Nm of torque, or even more powerful 238 PS 3.2-liter naturally aspirated gasoline engine, enough for a family estate, which will never see the real mud.



The D5 turbocharged oil-burner, for instance, features double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder technology, an electronically controlled turbocharger, a maintenance-free particle filter, a more advanced multi-point injection system and an enhanced engine management system. Mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the engine pushes the 2008 Volvo XC70 from zero to 60 mph in just 8.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 130 mph. It can also be ordered with Volvo's six-speed Geartronic automatic transmission with an option of manual shifting.



The 3.2-liter gasoline engine delivers impressive 320 Nm of torque. The straight-six engine features aluminum block and head with twin overhead camshafts and 24-valves as well as Volvo's patented CPS (Cam Profile Switching) system that features two completely different intake cam profiles machined onto the same camshaft.



It's even more energetic than the diesel, accelerating from zero to 60 mph in only 8.1 seconds and achieving a top speed of 134 mph.



The Volvo XC70 features really impressive for a wagon effective ground clearance of 210 mm, wading depth of 300 mm and amp angles of 19.2° approach, 19.8° breakover and 24° departure, beating the outgoing model (16°, 18° and 20° respectively) in all three areas. Its off-road abilities are further enhanced by a hill descent control system and all-wheel drive system with Volvo's own Instant Traction electronic torque distribution system.

Its price is yet to be announced in June and the first cars will reach their buyers only in October.

Picture: Volvo Cars

See also: Peugeot Holland & Holland 4007 Concept SUV

Technorati tags: Volvo, XC70, cross country, D5, diesel, Geartronic

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Audi Q7 4.2 TDI raises the bar again

Set to arrive in the showrooms sometime in June this year, the new Audi Q7 4.2 TDI SUV makes a good claim to be the world's most powerful and fast sports utility vehicle. Its 4.2-liter V8 diesel engine is mated to the six-speed Tiptronic automatic transmission and develops a maximum of 326 bhp and stunning 760 Nm (560 lb-ft) of torque produced between 1,800 rpm and 2,500 rpm. Although that powerful, it consumes only about 11.1 liters of diesel fuel per 100 km (25mpg).



The new SUV is fast, too. The Ingolstadt company claims that the new Audi Q7 4.2 TDI takes only 6.4 seconds to jump from zero to 62 mph and its top speed reaches 236 km/h (147 mph). It's kept on the road with the help of Audi's adaptive air suspension with three driving modes and five ground clearance settings. Like other Audi Q7 models, this one is equipped with a self-locking center differential with asymmetric/dynamic torque split with a 40:60 front-rear base ratio.

The list of technological luxurities includes a radar-supported cruise control system with active distance control and the new lane assist system that informs the driver when he or she comes off the carriageway.

Picture: Audi AG

See also: Audi Q7 TDI tuned by B&B

Technorati tags: Audi Q7, V8, SUV, TDi, diesel, Tiptronic, cars

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Audi Q7 V12 TDi may come to the U.S.

The U.S. market is of strategic importance to any serious automaker and it seems that the golden key to the local market is a clean and powerful diesel engine. Audi has one and is about to offer it inside its highly successful Audi Q7 V12 TDi luxurious SUV.



Citing Audi's CEO Rupert Stadler talking at a press-conference in Ingolstadt, Fourtitude.com is reporting that "the launch of the [Audi Q7] V12 TDI is part of [Audi's] broad-based diesel initiative in the US market".



The new V12 TDI engine belongs to the new generation of oil-burners that are characterized by an extremely low level of nitrogen oxide emissions. Marketed under the Bluetec label, these engines are legal in almost all US states.



Photos: Audi AG

See also: Audi Q7 TDI tuned by B&B

Technorati tags: Audi Q7, V12, SUV, TDi, diesel, Bluetec, cars

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