Rocketsports Adds More International Flair To Trans-Am With German Driver Klaus Graf
Topic: Auto News
German championship driver Klaus Graf teams up with Rocketsports Racing and Jaguar to compete for the 2005 Trans-Am Series Driver's Championship. The 15-year veteran of road racing will drive the No. 7 Jaguar R Performance XKR powered by the Rocketsports-developed Jaguar AJ-V8 production-based power plant. The 33-year-old German driver holds impressive credentials with two International driver's championships, two Le Mans 24 hour starts, three seasons in the American Le Mans Series and one NASCAR Nextel Cup start. In addition to his racing activities, Graf is also a safety training instructor and test driver. Graf is looking forward to the new opportunity the Trans-Am Series offers. "I am glad to have this opportunity," declared Graf. "With the past success of Rocketsports and Jaguar I feel we can achieve success quickly and my goal is to win the Trans-Am championship this year." "We are thrilled to have Klaus join the Rocketsports Jaguar team for the 2005 season," said Tom Scarpello, vice president of Marketing for Jaguar North America. "With Jaguar power under the hood of the No. 7 car, Klaus has the best equipment, and with his skill we are looking forward to some impressive performances and hopefully another championship season." Rocketsports Racing looks to three-peat with the 2005 Trans-Am Driver's Championship. Winning seven times in 2004, Rocketsports reached their 52nd series win and their fifth championship. Appropriately, the team's milestone 50th victory was the first for the four-valve Jaguar production based AJ-V8 engine. "Finding the caliber of driver to fill a seat that was once occupied by champions Scott Pruett and Tommy Kendall is a difficult task," said Rocketsports owner Paul Gentilozzi. "There are certain expectations that Jaguar and myself put on drivers, Klaus surpasses those expectations. He is an experienced driver with the knowledge to deliver Jaguar their fifth Manufacturers' Championship." Graf will join Rocketsports teammates Gentilozzi and Tomy Drissi on the starting grid of the Toyota Grand Prix of Long Beach on April 10th as the first German national to compete in the Trans-Am series in 17 years. LKW Verkauf

Highest German design award for the Porsche 911
Topic: Auto News
Stuttgart. The Porsche 911 Carrera from the 997 model range that came onto the market in Fall 2004 today received Germany’s highest design award, the Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany in Gold. Dagmar Wohrl, Parliamentary Secretary of State for the Federal Ministry of Economics and Technology, awarded the prize to Matthias Kulla, Head of Exterior Design at Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG this morning in Frankfurt. The Stuttgart sports automobile producer was the only automobile company to be honored with the Design Award in Gold.
The jury found the “judicious and sophisticated modernization of a former style icon” worth honoring. The current 911 is characterized both by a “return to central elements of its 911 predecessors“ as well as a “continuing development of successful stylistic features“. The sports automobile has been built since 1962 and is now in the sixth generation.
The Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany in Gold is the Federal Republic’s official design award and is overseen by the German Design Council. Around 900 participants were nominated for this year’s award, the prerequisite for which is at least one prior award.

Attractive options for the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S
Topic: Auto News
The new SportDesign package – improved aerodynamics and sportier looks
Stuttgart. Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG of Stuttgart, Germany, is now offering a SportDesign package for the Boxster and Boxster S roadster models. This new individualization option comprises spoiler lips for mounting on the standard front trim, an automatically extending, redesigned rear spoiler, and a modified rear trim with an integrated diffuser.
In addition to providing a particularly striking and sporty appearance, the new SportDesign package improves aerodynamics. The lifting forces on the front and rear axles are reduced without air resistance being increased, which further supports the vehicle’s finely-tuned, roadster-specific balance. The shape of the rear trim with the integrated diffuser evokes a conscious association with the Carrera GT high-performance sports car. The automatically extending rear spoiler, which has been designed according to the divided wing principle, contributes further to this association. All of the SportDesign package’s attractive components are painted in the vehicle’s exterior color, and blend in harmoniously with the Boxster’s dynamic visuals.
Porsche is offering the SportDesign package worldwide. In Germany, it can be ordered from Porsche Exclusive for 4,060 Euros (incl. sales tax) on purchase of a new vehicle. For retrofitting, it is available from Porsche Tequipment for 3,422 Euros (incl. sales tax) plus labor.

Land Rover: Truly "Extraordinary"
Topic: Auto News
2006—Land Rover North America today launched an all-new marketing campaign—"Designed for the Extraordinary"—intended to entice potential customers into the world of Land Rover: sophisticated yet rugged, luxurious yet authentic, as only a Land Rover can be. The campaign focuses on what differentiates Land Rovers from other luxury vehicles offering exceptional design and outstanding breadth of capability.
"Designed for the Extraordinary" showcases the brand as a whole, highlighting each individual nameplate—Range Rover, Range Rover Sport and LR3. To reinforce each vehicle's personality in an unusual manner, Land Rover is placing vehicles in settings that feature genuine demonstrations of superior performance.
The first of the extraordinary vignettes will feature the Range Rover Sport followed by LR3 and Range Rover, shown in equally, if not more impressive, ways later this year. The goal of the campaign is to show that the entire Land Rover lineup brings style and substance together in extraordinary ways.
Range Rover Sport sets the pace in the campaign via a dramatic TV shoot that took place beneath the city of Tokyo, utilizing a little-known yet huge network of underground aqueducts designed to support the city's infrastructure. Like Land Rover vehicles, the Tokyo aqueducts are an engineering marvel of immense capability.
Directed by Jordan Scott, daughter of famed director Ridley Scott, the TV commercial highlights
the extraordinary design and driving abilities of the Range Rover Sport and the unique tunnel infrastructure, taking the viewer where no road-going vehicle has ever been before.
"In today's world of technologically advanced TV production, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to determine what's real and what's computer-generated in advertising, so we're providing behind-the-scenes information and footage on our Web site. Here the viewers will come to understand that what they are seeing is completely real and not a dramatization," says Sally Eastwood, vice president, marketing, Land Rover North America.
To further reinforce the "Designed for the Extraordinary" concept, Tokyo photographer Kenshi Daito was commissioned to create his own vision of "Extraordinary," capturing the essence of Tokyo and the Range Rover Sport from his own unique perspective. Sixteen of Daito's photographs can be viewed at www.landroverusa.com. Known in the art community for his unique style of blending digital technology and traditional photographic processes, the inspiration behind Daito's photography is similar to that of the Range Rover Sport's own amalgamation of cutting-edge technology and legendary tradition.
The campaign's primary communication methods will focus on TV, print and outdoor, complemented by a "behind-the-scenes" look at the making of the advertisements that will be housed on the company Web site at www.landroverusa.com.

Lexus Announces Introduction of More Powerful 2007 RX 350 Models
Topic: Auto News
Lexus announced today that the RX 330, the number-one selling luxury SUV, receives improved performance and additional luxury details for model year 2007. The new RX 350, available as both front-wheel (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) models, adopts a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that improves both performance and fuel efficiency. The 2007 models also receive advanced luxury and convenience options and additional refinements for enhanced drivability.
"The RX 350 is faster, more fuel efficient and quieter than ever before, while retaining the sleek styling, elegance and uncompromising value that have made its predecessors the undisputed segment leader for seven years in a row," said Bob Carter, Lexus group vice president and general manager. "These improvements reflect the attention to detail that has helped to make Lexus the overall luxury vehicle market leader."
Powerful Technology for New V6
The RX 350 adopts a 3.5-liter V6 engine featuring all-aluminum construction and dual Variable Valve Timing with Intelligence (VVT-i) that helps optimize torque for quick and powerful response at all speeds. This advanced engine produces 270 horsepower and 251 lb.-ft. of torque, up 47 hp and 13 lb.-ft. from the 2006 RX 330.
The improved performance enables the RX 350 to sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds for the FWD model and 7.4 seconds for the AWD model, substantially quicker for both models over their respective predecessors.
The new performance of the RX 350 is comparable to the output of some competitive V8 engines while still providing a fuel-economy rating among the best in class for nonhybrids. Its five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission receives enhanced tuning for more refined drivability as well as improved fuel efficiency. EPA-estimated combined fuel economy rating for the RX 350 is 22 mpg (20 mpg city/25 mpg highway) for the FWD model and 21 mpg (19 mpg city/24 mpg highway) for the AWD. Even with its significant power increase, the RX 350 maintains the previous model’s ULEV II emissions certification.
The highly sophisticated engine uses electronically controlled sequential fuel injection, which optimizes the fuel mixture and creates a precise burn, higher output and lower emissions to aid drivability. In addition, an electronic throttle control presides over several systems to maintain superior control of power flow. This system, Electronic Throttle Control with intelligence (ETC-i), helps manage idle speed, cruise control, Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC). The result is a substantial improvement in engine efficiency with increased power and improved fuel economy.
Comfortable Luxury, Smooth Ride, Refined Interior
The original RX set the benchmark for smooth, quiet ride quality thanks to a rigid body structure, vibration-canceling engine mounts, sound-absorption materials and refined aerodynamic details. For 2007, the RX 350 further minimizes cabin noise resulting from the powertrain, road and wind with the addition of an acoustic glass windshield along with additional sound insulation placed in the door panels, instrument panel and floor mats.
The quieter interior provides an even better listening environment for a new standard premium, satellite-ready, eight-speaker AM/FM/CD audio player with in-dash six-CD autochanger. The audio system is compatible with MP3/WPA-formatted CDs and includes Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL), Radio Data System (RDS) and a digital signal processor. Commonly used audio functions are accessible via steering wheel-mounted controls.
For true audiophiles, a Mark Levinson Premium Audio System is optionally available. This 11-speaker system features an in-dash six-disc DVD/CD autochanger, DVD-audio and DVD-video playback as well as remarkable sound clarity at all volumes (with 210 watts at 0.1% THD, 20-20,000 Hz). The available factory-installed, rear-seat DVD entertainment system also receives an upgrade. The fold-away video screen increases in size to 9-inches from the previous 7-inch screen for improved viewing.
Fifth-Generation Navigation
For 2007, the fifth-generation navigation system is optionally available on the RX 350 and includes voice-recognition that will allow the driver to input a desired destination by voice command while driving.
Like other Lexus navigation systems, the new fifth-generation system will be offered in conjunction with a rear back-up camera to supplement the driver’s visibility of the area behind the vehicle. The camera will provide the driver a view of what the camera lens can detect behind the vehicle, automatically projecting a color image on the navigation system’s seven-inch VGA screen when the reverse gear is engaged.
Visual support in the Lexus fifth-generation navigation system is greatly enhanced. The central-display screen will offer better resolution with 800 x 480 pixels as compared to the previous 400 x 240 and will display graphics in 32,000 colors compared to the 256 colors in the previous model. Not only will maps and roads look sharper and include 3D shadow effects, all details appearing on the screen will be crisper and cleaner. The result: a richer-looking display that will be more visually appealing and easier to view at a glance.
The new navigation system will add Spanish to the already offered English and French text display options. The user can select the language preference at system start-up.
Advanced All-Wheel Drive
The AWD RX 350 model is improved with the addition of a viscous limited-slip center differential, which enhances drivability in all types of driving conditions. The full-time AWD system provides a constant 50/50 front-to-rear power split. If slippage occurs, the viscous differential directs torque to the wheels with the most traction.
For 2007, a direct-type Tire Pressure Monitor (TPM) system replaces the previous indirect system and alerts the driver via a warning light on the instrument panel if a significant drop in tire pressure is detected in any of the tires.

Acura To Debut New MDX Concept At New York International Auto Show
Topic: Auto News
Celebrating its 20th anniversary as a brand, Acura today announced plans to debut a concept version of the all-new MDX luxury sport-utility vehicle, April 12, at the New York International Auto Show and released an artist's rendering of the new vehicle. Scheduled to debut later this year, the 2007 Acura MDX will be the second generation of Acura's luxury SUV to be designed, developed and manufactured exclusively in North America.
"The 2007 MDX will speak clearly to the advanced image of Acura and promises to put MDX solidly at the front of the pack with a striking new image, new technology and performance unmatched in the segment," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The designers and engineers working on this new MDX have a tremendous passion for this product that will be evident in all aspects of its design and performance."
The company made the announcement on the 20th anniversary of its creation as the first Japanese luxury nameplate. "The pioneering spirit that gave birth to Acura two decades ago is driving our continued advancement and innovative approach to luxury," said Colliver. "Acura is twenty years young today - stronger, faster, more nimble and more on the cutting edge of automotive design and technology than at any time in its 20-year history."
The company also celebrated the groundbreaking for a new Acura-exclusive design facility - the Acura Design Center - scheduled to open in the summer of 2007. This new facility, located at the company's Torrance, California, headquarters will play a critical role in the research and design of future Acura products and will serve to ensure that Acura continues to produce distinctive designs that communicate the advanced style, performance and character of Acura.
Launched on March 27, 1986, Acura was the world's first Japanese luxury nameplate and the first to challenge established European and American luxury marques with its world-class engineering, product quality, value and advanced powertrain technology. Its 20-year history of innovation includes the first Japanese exotic sports car, the highly-acclaimed Acura NSX, and numerous technology firsts including the first automotive applications of in-dash navigation, Bluetooth(R) phone integration and DVD-Audio surround sound. Acura was also the first Japanese luxury automaker to develop and manufacturer its vehicles in North America, beginning with the 1997 Acura 2.2CL coupe. Today, nearly two-thirds of all Acura vehicles sold in America are designed, developed and manufactured in North America.
In 2005, the Acura Division recorded its third consecutive year of record sales, topping the two-hundred thousand mark for the first time in the Division's history. It's class leading products include the Acura TL sedan, America's best-selling luxury sedan in 2004; the award-winning Acura MDX sport-utility vehicle; and the highly popular TSX sports sedan, three-time recipient of Car and Driver magazine's 10Best honors. Its top-of-the-line RL performance luxury sedan boasts numerous technology innovations including AcuraLink Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic, Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) and the first North American application of advanced Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS) technology.
In 2006, Acura will introduce two all-new models - the 2007 Acura MDX and the completely new RDX premium entry SUV. Equipped with an innovative new 2.3-liter turbocharged engine and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive, the RDX combines sport-utility function with sports sedan handling and performance. The RDX will launch this summer as a 2007 model.

Turbocharged Acura RDX Debuts At 2006 New York Auto Show
Topic: Auto News
The all-new 2007 Acura RDX Entry Premium SUV, made its production debut at the New York Auto Show today. RDX combines Acura's first-ever turbocharged engine with the breakthrough Super Handling All-Wheel Drive(TM) (SH-AWD(TM)), for sports sedan-like handling in a SUV package.
"The all-new RDX is an exciting entry to the Acura light truck lineup for 2007," said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations, "The RDX's innovative powertrain coupled with SH-AWD provides this SUV with excellent fuel economy and outstanding performance."
The RDX is aimed at high-energy urbanites that spend the work week in the confines of the city, and then decompress on the weekends by getting away from it all. Regardless of where they go, these drivers expect the ultimate in responsiveness, control and adaptability.
Built on a new global light truck platform, the RDX concept was first designed in California and then developed in Japan. Besides featuring precedent-setting engineering features including Acura's first turbocharged and intercooled engine and the first adaptation of a SH-AWD(TM) system to an SUV, the RDX also offers Acura's first standard 18-inch wheels and tires.
True to form for Acura, the RDX incorporates a class-leading array of sophisticated electronic technologies that are seamlessly integrated to keep its passengers informed, entertained and in touch. The RDX also introduces new safety technologies based on the fundamentals of Acura's "Safety Through Innovation" initiative.
As Acura's first Entry Premium SUV, the RDX was the focal point of the development of a special powertrain that would blend 4-cylinder efficiency and 6-cylinder power. The ideal solution came in the form of an innovative new variable flow turbo (VFT) that delivers an unusually broad powerband with little or no lag in throttle response. The RDX is equipped with an all-new 2.3-liter DOHC 16-valve in-line four-cylinder engine with i-VTEC valve control that combines Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) with Variable Timing Control (VTC). With the variable flow turbo working in concert with i-VTEC, the RDX delivers strong power and torque, excellent fuel economy and very low emissions.
Rated output for the RDX engine is 240 horsepower SAE net* at 6000 rpm. In terms of torque, the RDX has the highest output of any engine in the Acura lineup, with 260 lbs.-ft. of torque SAE net* at 4500 rpm. The RDX is expected to return an EPA-estimated 19/24** City/Highway mileage, while meeting strict CARB LEV-2 ULEV and EPA Tier-2 Bin-5 emissions standards.
A 5-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift is standard. The electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle and transmission work together to execute shifts, resulting in exceptionally quick and smooth gear changes. The transmission can function as a conventional automatic transmission or, at the driver's option, can be shifted manually via steering-wheel-mounted paddles.
SH-AWD(TM) is standard in the RDX to maximize available traction while improving handling balance and responsiveness. SH-AWD(TM) is Acura's patented all-wheel drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque not only between the front and rear axles but also between the left and right rear wheels. The system's direct yaw control helps reduce understeer to enhance steering accuracy and add to total cornering power.
Responsive handling is further aided by fully independent front and rear suspensions. The MacPherson strut front and trailing arm-type multilink rear systems are tuned for compliant control, and assisted with front and rear anti-roll bars for flatter cornering. Standard Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA(R)) with traction control further enhances controllability and grip.
The RDX exterior styling further emphasizes the SUV's sporty athleticism. It has a taut, muscular presence with standard 18-inch wheels and tires that work together with large wheel arches, aggressively raked body sides, a steeply raked windscreen and a short rear overhang. A unique rear hatch, finished with a replaceable panel to reduce the cost of accident repair, allows the rear of the body to smoothly transition to the rear bumper. This permits a more custom look and also eases the act of loading and unloading cargo.
Inside the RDX, the front-seats feature a high "eye point" that provides a confident field of view. The 3-passenger rear seat has a 60/40 split-folding capability and, when folded flat, significantly expands the load area and increases the cargo volume to 60.6 cubic feet of storage. There are multiple interior storage compartments positioned throughout the interior, including a large (and lockable) dual-level center console located conveniently between the front seats that can securely accommodate a briefcase.
The RDX features an array of electronic features that set it apart from the competition. These include a dual-zone automatic climate control system, a Multi-Information Display (MID), and LED backlit gauges with progressive illumination. Also standard is an impressive 360-watt 7-speaker Acura Premium Sound System with a multi-format 6-disc changer, AM/FM tuner, XM(R) Satellite Radio, and the convenience of an MP3/auxiliary input jack for easily connecting audio devices such as an iPod.
Just one optional package is offered on the RDX. The Technology Package heightens the RDX's appeal to technology-savvy customers with a range of advanced features. The centerpiece is a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Surround(TM) Premium Sound System designed by legendary recording engineer Elliott Scheiner. When playing DVD-Audio discs (DVD-A), this advanced 410-watt system delivers eight discreet audio channels (instead of the usual two) to create an uncannily accurate listening experience. With its multi-format 6-disc DVD-A changer, AM/FM tuner and XM(R) Satellite Radio, the system is as versatile as it is powerful.
The Technology Package also includes several information and communications such as HandsFreeLink(TM) and the Acura Navigation system. HandFreeLink is a wireless telephone interface that is designed to work with many Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones (sold separately). In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.
The Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition(TM) can display up-to-the-minute traffic information including flow, accidents, construction and weather conditions on freeways in 31 major metro areas (where available). When the transmission is placed in reverse, the Navigation screen displays the image from a rearview camera to make parking easier. In addition, the AcuraLink(TM) Satellite Communication System with Real Time Traffic allows for 2-way communication between Acura and the vehicle, providing customers with the latest information specific to their vehicle.
Technological leadership also extends to safety engineering. The RDX's Advanced Compatibility Engineering(TM) (ACE(TM)) body structure substantially contributes to passenger safety. ACE(TM) distributes collision loads through the body structure, leaving the passenger cabin more intact for improved occupant protection. Specially designed frame members make the RDX more compatible with smaller vehicles in the event of a vehicle-to-vehicle frontal collision. Likewise, a specially engineered hood and other components help reduce the chances of pedestrian injury in the event of a collision with the vehicle.
Inside the RDX is a full complement of passive safety features. Key technologies include the latest generation of dual-stage, dual-threshold airbags for the driver and front passenger, plus side airbags for the driver and front passenger and side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all outboard occupants. Child-seat mounting systems, LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children), allow the quick and secure installation of a child seats.
The RDX will be assembled in Marysville, Ohio, on the same line as the Acura TL sedan. It is the first Acura light truck to come from the facility.
Like all Acura models, the 2007 RDX is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty and a 6-year/70,000 miles powertrain limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.
For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries, please go to www.acuranews.com.

Ram 1500 pickup earns five-star crash test rating
Topic: Auto News
Dodge Ram 1500 has received the highest government frontal crash test rating for the driver and front passenger—the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) five-star rating.*
In this test, vehicles are crashed into a fixed barrier at 35 miles per hour, which NHTSA states is equivalent to a head-on collision between two identical vehicles, each traveling at 35 mph. Instrumented dummies in the driver and front-passenger seats register forces and impacts during the crash.
At Dodge, safety has always been something we take seriously. This five-star rating is an important indication that the Ram 1500 pickup is the kind of vehicle you and the people you care about will feel safe driving.
* Based on NHTSA's 2005 model year rating.

Chrysler Road Trip Savvy Tips Help Families Travel Safe and Smart
Topic: Auto News
Almost half of all Americans say they are willing to take a road trip of up to 750 miles despite slightly higher gas prices, according to a national survey conducted by Chrysler.
New vehicle safety standards, entertainment features and enhancements in comfort have revolutionized the family road trip experience of today, making longer road trips more desirable to the traveler.
Additional results from the survey of American's travel experiences found that 55 percent of adults find road trips more enjoyable now than when they were kids and 60 percent wish their earlier vehicle had either a DVD system (35 percent) or a navigation system (25 percent).
With so many Americans taking to the road, Chrysler teamed up with family travel expert and editor of FamilyTravelForum.com Kyle McCarthy to offer Chrysler Pacifica Road Trip Savvy Tips to help families enjoy their time on the road:
While inventions like side-curtain air bags and the Chrysler Pacifica's Five Star front- and side-impact safety ratings make the road trip a much safer experience and help parents relax, it's the innovative backseat entertainment system that keeps kids happily strapped in with a ceiling mounted DVD player
Many families find new Sports Tourers like the Chrysler Pacifica so comfortable that they have to remember to stop and stretch regularly. This is especially important for toddlers and grandparents.
If you pack the cargo hold the night before departure, stash a family overnight bag with toiletries and pajamas on top, so you won't have to spend time unloading en route.
Kids can be a great help with remembering items for a trip. Determining a road trip allowance for each child, then letting them know they'll have to chip in to buy any forgotten essentials will ensure that everything makes it into the suitcase.
"Many American families are choosing to take road trips instead of flying," said Jeff Bell, Vice President - Chrysler Marketing, Chrysler Group. "Modern vehicles like the Chrysler Pacifica offer flexibility and utility without sacrificing comfort and style. This vehicle gives drivers and passengers the opportunity to enjoy traveling together in the safety of their own vehicle"
To help travelers adjust to slightly higher gas prices, Chrysler Group suggests drivers take the following steps to enhance fuel economy:
Ways to Maximize Fuel Economy:
Replace dirty air filters. A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy as much as 10 percent
Check tire pressure. Tires under inflated by just 2 psi can reduce fuel economy as much as 1 percent
Reduce aerodynamic drag on the vehicle by taking empty cargo carriers, bike racks, ski racks etc. off. At highway speed, 50 percent of the engine power is used to overcome aerodynamic drag

AUDI A4 AND A6 RECEIVE "INTERIOR OF THE YEAR" HONORS AT WARD'S SIXTH ANNUAL AUTO INTERIOR OF THE YEAR AWARDS
Topic: Auto News
DETROIT, MI.--- Today at Detroit's Cobo Center, Ward's Communications named two Audi models, the new A4 and the new A6, as winners in the 2005 Auto Interior of the Year awards. Both the A4 and the A6 won the media vote in their respective categories in recognition of innovative use of new technologies, materials, ergonomics and overall aesthetics.
In early April, the editors of Ward's Auto World magazine nominated 23 vehicles, out of which automotive journalists throughout North America, as well as the general automotive community, then determined the winners in four categories. The winners were selected by two votes - one by members of the news media and one by the industry at-large.
Audi is widely recognized in the press as the automotive interior design leader. These awards build on a number of significant victories in international competitions over the last 12 months including World Car of the Year and the Most Beautiful Large Sedan in the World for the new Audi A6.