Official: Lexus reveals LF-NX crossover concept for Frankfurt

Compact luxury crossovers are becoming big business for upscale automakers. Mercedes is slotting the new GLA beneath the GLK, BMW has the X1 below the X3, Audi has downsized from the Q5 to the Q3, and Lexus is keen to get in on the game. And to that end, Toyota's luxury division is coming to the Frankfurt Motor Show this year with the concept crossover you see here.

Previewed a couple of weeks ago with an enigmatic teaser, the LF-NX concept, in the company's own words, "explores the potential for a compact crossover within the Lexus model range." The latest adaptation of the "L-finesse" design language could be the sharpest and most stylistically Japanese we've seen yet, with the sharp creases of the signature spindle grille repeated all around for a razor-sharp look. Lexus only released one shot of the cabin, but it looks as sharp as the exterior and, while clearly stylized, looks essentially more production-ready than most show cars.

Lexus hasn't revealed much about the powertrain, saying only that it incorporates "a new variant of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system tuned for SUV performance." Whether it actually has an engine that Lexus will detail at the show remains to be seen, but you can delve into the press release below for more and scope out the five images released thus far in the gallery above for a closer look.

World Premiere of the Lexus LF-NX Crossover Concept at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show

- Distinctive and sculpted styling
- 'Human Oriented' interior design with new, touch-sensitive instrumentation
- Highly efficient full hybrid powertrain

FRANKFURT, Germany, Sept. 4, 2013 - A new Lexus compact crossover concept, the LF-NX, will make its world premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA). This concept explores the potential for a compact crossover within the Lexus model range.

Reinforcing Lexus' leading position in full hybrid drive technology, the LF-NX concept is powered by a new variant of the Lexus Hybrid Drive system tuned for SUV performance.

With its highly distinctive and powerfully sculpted styling, the LF-NX concept's exterior design reflects a further evolution of Lexus' L-finesse design language.

The front is dominated by a strong interpretation of the Lexus spindle grille, extremely expressive signature front lighting with independent Daytime Running Lights (DRL), and unique corner styling which separates the bumper from the front wing with an aggressive vertical cut.

In profile, muscular wheel arches are trimmed with the black protective finish which typifies an urban crossover. Above the pronounced diamond shape of the belt line, a classic Lexus side glazing profile and steeply raked tailgate create the sweeping silhouette of an athletic coupe.

The rear features highly articulated lamp clusters. They are detailed to project downwards to the full depth of the bumper, creating a sharp, aerodynamic trailing edge to the vehicle which mirrors the front wing detailing.

The Lexus LF-NX concept is finished in a new Brushed Metal Silver exterior colorwhich gives the striking impression that the bodyshell has been carved from a single piece of solid metal.

The interior mirrors the LF-NX's highly sculpted exterior with bold, powerful forms creating a driver-focused cockpit within an ergonomically ideal environment.

In a continuation of the 'Human Oriented' L-finesse design concept, the cabin features the ideal, upper display zone and lower operation zone dashboard format perfected over successive Lexus generations.

This allows for intuitive interaction with the vehicle's next generation technology, which includes touch-sensitive electrostatic switches, and a new touch pad Remote Touch Interface (RTI) design.

Reinforcing the LF-NX concept's premium crossover credentials, the strength and refinement of the interior's carved metal surfacing is complemented throughout by Sunrise Yellow / Black leather upholstery with contrast stitching, and sophisticated blue instrument lighting.

The Lexus press conference is scheduled on September 10 at 13:00 CET on the Lexus stand, Hall 8, Frankfurt Messe.

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Official: Daimler promotes AMG boss Ola Källenius to marketing chief

There's been a mild shakeup at the top of the ranks at Mercedes-Benz. Joachim Schmidt, the nearly 65-year-old Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Mercedes passenger car operations and member of the Board of Management, has opted to retire. His replacement will be Ola Källenius, a 44-year-old Swede that has been running AMG since April 2010. The formal changeover will take place on October 1.

Schmidt joined Daimler-Benz in 1979 in passenger car development, although he's been involved in the sales and marketing departments for the past 20 years. He joined the Mercedes-Benz Board of Management in October of 2009.

Ola Källenius had what might be one of the coolest jobs in the world - he was chairman of Mercedes-AMG, the legendary high-performance tuning haus where V8 engines are as common as staplers and paperclips. Before that, he was the plant manager at the Mercedes factory in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. He also ran MB's high-performance engine facility in the UK and spent some time working for McLaren.

No successor has been announced for Källenius's position at AMG. A full press release can be found below.

Joachim Schmidt retires after more than 30 years' service â€" AMG chief Ola Källenius to take over as head of Mercedes-Benz passenger car sales

After more than 34 years of service, and having reached his 65th birthday, Dr. Joachim Schmidt, Executive Vice President Sales and Marketing and part of the management team at Mercedes-Benz Cars, has decided to hand over his responsibilities to a younger pair of hands. The transfer will formally take place on 1 October 2013. The Daimler Board of Management has named Ola Källenius, currently head of AMG, as his successor. Dr. Schmidt will remain available until the end of 2013 to support Mr Källenius in settling into his new role and to offer any advice and assistance.

For over 20 years, Dr. Schmidt has served in various sales and marketing management roles and, since October 2009, has been a member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Cars with responsibility for sales and marketing. In this role, he is also responsible for managing the worldwide national companies and the Executive Committee Sales & Marketing, which comprises the passenger car, van and truck lines.

The Board of Management would like to thank Dr. Schmidt for his many years of successful service. Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, said "Joachim Schmidt understands and embodies Mercedes-Benz like almost no-one else. Under his leadership, the brand has conquered many new regions and delighted its customers with its traditional strengths. He has reconfigured Sales and Marketing and laid the groundwork for bringing Mercedes-Benz into a new era."

Under Dr. Schmidt's watch, the Mercedes-Benz brand has tapped into important new growth regions and made huge progress in quality and customer satisfaction. He played a central role in the greatest strategic product initiative in the company's history and helped open up Mercedes-Benz to new, younger target groups. With the initiative "Best Customer Experience" he developed the retail of the future and laid the foundations in sales and marketing for the Mercedes-Benz 2020 growth strategy.

Joachim Schmidt was born on 7 September 1948 in Sindelfingen. He studied mathematics at the University of Stuttgart, obtaining his science doctorate there in 1976. In 1979, he joined what was then known as Daimler-Benz, working initially in passenger car development and then for over 20 years in various sales and marketing management positions.

Ola Källenius as Dr. Schmidt's successor has comprehensive knowledge of the Mercedes-Benz product portfolio and the Daimler sales structures, not least thanks to his role as Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG. "With Ola Källenius we have someone with cars in his blood taking over the reins," said Dr. Zetsche. "He knows what makes a brand a success and has in depth knowledge of our customers and our organisation. We have him to thank for the fact that in recent years AMG has achieved double-digit growth rates and has significantly increased its market leadership in many markets. I am happy he has accepted this position."

Ola Källenius (44) has been Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG since 1 April 2010. Before that, he was plant manager at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Tuscaloosa (USA), led Mercedes-Benz High Performance Engines in Brixworth, UK, and worked at McLaren Automotive. Previous roles at Daimler in Stuttgart include head of the Powertrain Procurement unit. Born in Sweden, he began his career on the International Management Associate Program in 1993, at what was then Daimler-Benz. He is a graduate of the Stockholm School of Economics and the University of St. Gallen. A successor to Mr Källenius as Chairman of the Management Board of Mercedes-AMG will be appointed and announced shortly.

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Official: Europe gets Jeep Wrangler Polar limited edition

Jeep will be bringing an all-new, limited-edition model to the European market called the Wrangler Polar. Based on the Wrangler Sahara and set to make its debut at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Wrangler Polar sports new Hyrdro Blue paint, gloss black 18-inch wheels, a body-color hardtop, and the regular mix of Mopar styling accessories. Billet Silver Metallic and Bright White are available for those that don't dig the glossy blue, while a two-door variant will be available in addition to the four-door pictured above.

The Polar's interior features similar tweaks; Pearl White contrast stitching can be found on both the seats and steering wheel, while ceramic White bezels and other accents give a nice contrasting look to the cabin.

Underhood sits an engine that should make American Wrangler enthusiasts weep - a 2.8-liter, four-cylinder turbodiesel. With 200 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque channeled through a five-speed automatic transmission, the Wrangler Polar should handle itself just fine on normal roads. British buyers will also be able to select the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6. For rougher stuff, Dana axles can be found front and rear (Dana 30 up front and Dana 44 in back), while the Command-Trac four-wheel-drive system and its two-speed transfer case should be enough for when the roads disappear.

Feel free to read all the details in the press release below, but not before you click on the image above to see the Wrangler Polar enlarged in all its aurora-bathed glory.

JEEP WRANGLER POLAR: THE NEW LIMITED-EDITION MODEL OF THE ICONIC JEEP WRANGLER CELEBRATES WINTER DRIVING 4X4 CAPABILITY

Special edition features new front grille with Black accents, hard spare-tyre cover, body-colour hardtop, aggressive 18" polished Gloss Black alloy wheels and Polar White interior finishes
Trac-Lok limited-slip rear differential for challenging the most extreme routes and the most demanding driving conditions in any weather
Available in the first quarter of 2014 for Wrangler two-door and four-door, powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine

In order to highlight the most adventurous soul and legendary 4x4 capabilities of the iconic Jeep Wrangler, the new limited-edition, customised Wrangler Polar model will be revealed on the Jeep stand in Frankfurt in the Wrangler four-door configuration, and will boast an all-new Hydro Blue exterior colour matched to a Black interior.

On the heels of the success of recently launched - and sold out - limited-edition customisations of Jeep Wrangler, this new special model sports a unique trim level dedicated to all those enthusiasts searching for adventure and absolute performance in extreme driving conditions. Featuring exclusive styling cues, 18" Gloss Black alloy wheels, body-colour hardtop and original Mopar® accessories, the new Jeep Wrangler Polar will be available in Europe in the first quarter of 2014, in both two- and four-door versions, powered by the brilliant 2.8-litre turbo diesel.

Jeep Wrangler Polar takes its cue from the severe climate and extreme conditions that characterise the Antarctic region. The "Polar" badge located on the vehicle's side shows off the 78° S and 106° E coordinates that correspond to the location of Vostok in Antarctica: the exact point where the absolute severest temperature in the world was recorded at -89.2° C (-128.56° F).

Thus the theme of winter that in the past inspired the creation of highly appreciated special series now returns in the making of this new special-edition model. The winter theme is what lies behind the choice of the Wrangler Polar's unique styling cues suggesting class-leading capabilities and the use of distinctive interior colours and details that recall features from the Antarctic region.

The new Jeep Wrangler Polar was designed to express the freedom of going beyond the known limits to venture into unexplored territories: an experience that only Wrangler enthusiasts can enjoy, thanks to the reliability and safety granted by a vehicle featuring benchmark technology and unmatched off-road expertise achieved in more than seventy years of history. With its hostile routes and severe climate, the Antarctic region offers the driving conditions that the iconic Jeep Wrangler was engineered to conquer.

Based on the Jeep Wrangler Sahara model, the exterior of the new Wrangler Polar boasts unique features that contribute to distinguish it aesthetically from all the other models in the Jeep lineup. First of all, the new front grille, featuring unique Gloss Black accents on the lamp throats, and the new hard spare-tyre cover are both new styling cues introduced specifically for this limited-edition model. Further exterior appointments characterizing the Wrangler Polar are the Powerdome hood and the body-colour hardtop with deep-tint sunscreen glass. A Gloss Black Jeep logo above the front grille and Gloss Black 18" alloy wheels enhance the distinctive look of the vehicle. Completing the exterior appointment of the new Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is the unique, three-colour bonnet decal, featuring the outline of mountains, and the black fuel-filler door from Mopar.

The interior features Black leather seats enhanced by Pearl White accent stitching and "Polar" logo embroidered on the upper portion of the backrests. Standard equipment also includes heated front seats and a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with Pearl White stitching and high-gloss Ceramic White painted bezels. Pearl White accent stitching is found also on the armrests and floor console lid. The passenger-side dashboard grab bar and dashboard vent rings are finished in high-gloss Ceramic White to create the contrasting effect of the light on Antarctic glaciers.

The exclusive cabin of the Jeep Wrangler Polar special edition also features an all-new cluster overlay with rings painted high-gloss Ceramic White and surrounding a blue instrument background with "Polar" logo. Mopar tread-pattern slush mats complete the interior appointments of the new Wrangler Polar.

In addition to the all-new Hydro Blue colour that adds to the unique look of the vehicle displayed in Frankfurt, the Jeep Wrangler Polar special-edition model is also available in Billet Silver Metallic and Bright White exterior colours.

Engineered to take on the most challenging off-road trails, Jeep Wrangler Polar is equipped with the Dana 30 front axle and powerful Dana 44 rear axle. Legendary Wrangler capability is achieved through the standard Command-Trac NV241 part-time, two-speed transfer case with a 2.72:1 low-range gear ratio. In order to handle any off-road track in utmost safety, the new Wrangler Polar model comes standard with the Trac-Lok anti-spin rear differential. This particular differential replaces the manual rear-axle locker and is a torque-sensitive mechanical unit that works to maintain traction when travelling on slippery or rough road surfaces, such as on sand, gravel, snow or ice. Trac-Lok automatically distributes the available torque to the rear wheel with the most traction, thus helping to reduce wheel spin caused by lack of traction in the other rear wheel.

The standard equipment for on-board comfort includes automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel with integrated controls, heated front seats, height-adjustable driver seat, Electronic Vehicle Information Centre (EVIC) and cruise control, UConnectTM multi-media infotainment and navigation system with 6.5-inch touchscreen, 40-gigabyte hard disk.

The new limited-edition model will be powered by the efficient 2.8-litre turbo diesel engine matched to an automatic transmission. The 2.8-litre CRD engine delivers 200 hp (147 kW) of power at 3,600 rpm and 460 Nm of torque at 1,600 - 2,600 rpm when paired to the five-speed automatic transmission.

For more than seventy years, the Jeep brand has been the benchmark for an entire category of vehicles in terms of performance and versatility. Jeep Wrangler has been and remains the most famous model in the Jeep range worldwide. A brand icon, Wrangler has always been able to ensure its customers a unique degree of freedom thanks to its ability to master the most extreme off-road trails in utmost safety.

With a 52 cm longer wheelbase and a larger cabin that can comfortably accommodate five passengers, Jeep Wrangler 4-Door is the evolution of the classic Wrangler. Jeep Wrangler 4-Door combines the exceptional Jeep off-road capabilities with the comfort and versatility of an everyday car, turning the off-road champion into a four-door 4x4 convertible.

Jeep Wrangler and Wrangler 4-Door are available in the Sahara, Overland and Rubicon trim levels and are all powered by the 2.8-litre turbo diesel Common-Rail engine featuring Stop/Start technology. The 3.6-litre V-6 petrol engine is available on special order in the UK.

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Official: Toyota Yaris Hybrid-R zips in on its way to Frankfurt

Toyota has been known to make some exciting cars over the years, but its hybrids, well... let's just say a Prius appeals to a different kind of buyer. The TS030 Hybrid LMP1, on the other hand, now that's more our speed. And at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week, the Japanese industrial giant will bridge the gap with the concept car you see here. Previewed in bits and pieces along the way, Toyota has now revealed the full details and array of photos of its new Yaris Hybrid-R concept. And what the full picture reveals is a Prius C that's gone to the gym â€" or more appropriately, the track.

Powering this little pocket rocket is TMG's Global Racing Engine: a 1.6-liter inline-four with direct injection and a Garett turbocharger to drive 300 horsepower to the front wheels through a six-speed sequential gearbox. A pair of electric motors provide an extra 60 hp to each of the rear wheels for a combined output of 420 hp and through-the-road all-wheel drive. A third 60hp electric motor serves as traction control under acceleration and acts as a generator under braking to feed the TS030-derived super capacitor that boasts a higher power density and faster charge/discharge speed than a traditional battery. The system can provide a 40-horse boost for ten seconds in Road mode, or the full 120hp for five seconds in Track mode.

Though based on the three-door Yaris, there'd be no mistaking this for any ordinary econo-hatch. 18-inch TRD alloys with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires pack the wheel wells and a wider grille dominates the front fascia, while black and blue trim contrast sharply with the white bodywork. The rear pillar incorporates a quick-fill competition-spec fuel cap, LED daytime running lights illuminate the way and oversized brakes keep it all under control. The interior boasts Recaro racing buckets in black leather and blue Alcantara. There's more to digest in the press release below, but the bottom line is that if this is where Toyota is taking its hybrids, we want to climb into the driver's seat, and we're looking forward to seeing the concept in the flesh next week.

YARIS HYBRID-R DEDICATED TO MAXIMISING DRIVING PLEASURE

Making its World Premiere at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, the Yaris Hybrid-R concept car combines the advanced technology of the compact volume seller Toyota Yaris Hybrid with high-performance engineering inspired by Toyota's racing prototype, the TS030 HYBRID, which participated at Le Mans and in the World Endurance Championship. The result is a highly focused concept car dedicated to maximising driving pleasure on road and on track.
Brussels, Belgium -

Good to know
- A showcase of ideas for the future of hybrid technology
- Yaris HYBRID-R technology directly inspired by the TOYOTA Racing program in the FIA World Endurance Championship series
- An e-4WD hybrid vehicle with a maximum system output of 420hp
- A resolutely sportier and anticipatory execution of the Keen look and Under Priority design philosophy

Hybrid technology is still young - with the first generation Toyota Prius appearing in 1997, just 16 years ago. As such, it still has its future ahead and a great potential to evolve in many different directions. Only recently, hybrid technology has started to appear in racing programs, but is not yet fully established in people minds as a performance oriented solution. The Yaris Hybrid-R concept car is a clear showcase of possible ideas for the development of hybrid technology for maximum performance and increased driving pleasure.

The Hybrid powertrain
Based on the Yaris 3-door, the Yaris Hybrid R concept hybrid powertrain configuration, employs a powerful and highly tuned 1.6l petrol engine combined with two powerful electric motors to provide an 'intelligent' electric four-wheel drive capability.

The front wheels are driven by a 300hp 4-cylinder 1.6 turbo engine with direct injection specifically developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH (TMG) according to the rules of the International Automobile Federation (FIA) for a Global Race Engine to be utilised in different motorsport disciplines.

At the rear, each wheel is individually powered by a 60hp electric motor â€" the same as those used in the standard Yaris Hybrid. The hybrid powertrain system develops a total system output of 420 hp.

The two electric motors work as electric generators during the braking phase, and supplement the petrol engine during the accelerating phases.

Just like in the TS030 HYBRID, the energy recovered during the braking phase is stored in a super capacitor. In the Yaris Hybrid-R it is located under the rear seat, where the Yaris Hybrid battery is usually positioned. Compared to the standard NiMh hybrid battery, the super capacitor has a higher power density and a fast power charge / discharge speed. It is perfectly suited to the requirements of sporty driving on track, which requires brief and immediate bursts of power.

A 3rd 60hp electric motor, located between the engine and the 6 gear sequential transmission, operates as a generator in two different cases: during deceleration to feed the super capacitor and during acceleration to directly power the rear electric motors.

The latter will only happen when the engine power and torque exceed the grip potential of the front wheels. The generator behaves like an advanced traction control system, redirecting the torque as electric energy to the rear wheels, to boost the acceleration and improve the handling rather than to simply limit the engine power.

Good to know
- Front wheels powered by a 300hp 1.6l turbo racing engine
- Rears wheels powered by two 60 hp standard Yaris Hybrid motors
- Just like in the TS030 HYBRID, the energy is stored in a super capacitor
- Advanced traction control thanks to a third electric motor in the front

A resolutely sporty design
The Yaris Hybrid-R features a more aggressive and emotional interpretation of the design language that characterises recent Toyota models. The Keen Look and Under Priority design philosophy is reinforced by the adoption of newly designed headlights, a wider front grille and black and blue details that contrast with the white body colour.

The specific bumper design incorporates two large air intakes and blue LED daytime running lights. The intakes greatly contribute to the front brake cooling, while the shape of the lower lip is designed to centrally channel underbody air flow.

The flared fenders house bespoke 18-inch TRD wheels fitted with 225/40 R18 Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres featuring an asymmetrical tread design to complement the Yaris Hybrid-R sporty philosophy. Ideally suited for a mixed use on the road and on the track, this choice of high-performance tyre is a symbol of the fruitful cooperation between Michelin and our racing team involved in the World Endurance Championship series.

Grooved and perforated brake discs are gripped by six-piston callipers in the front and four-piston callipers in the rear. Located on the rear pillar, a quick opening fuel cap makes easier a quick refuel in the pits.

At the rear, Yaris Hybrid specific LED lights maintain the link with the production car. An exclusive spoiler is mounted on the roof and the redesigned bumper incorporates a large diffuser, with an exhaust pipe framed by two air extractors.

Good to know
- 18-inch TRD wheels
- Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tyres for a mixed use on the road and on the track
- A push button on the steering wheel to select "road" or "track" mode
- Dual tone Recaro Bucket seats

A racing cockpit
Matching the colours outside, the dual tone Recaro bucket seats feature black leather side bolsters and blue Alcantara®. The same blue Alcantara® covers part of the door panels and the dashboard to give the interior a more cohesive, racing-inspired feel.

Ideally located high and close to the driver's right hand, the shift lever of the sequential gearbox is set up to quickly change down gears by pushing the lever forwards, and to change up by pulling it back.

The sport steering wheel wrapped in Alcantara® welcomes a racing inspired push button to select, at rest, either the "Track" or "Road" mode, or while driving , the "Boost" function.
The driving position is ideally completed by a set of GT 86 sport pedals.

A 'Road' mode for day-to-day driving
The 'Road' mode is characterized by a reduction of the engine output and an appropriate management of the amount of energy the super capacitor can distribute to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Accordingly, the turbo compression ratio of the 1.6l engine is reduced and the injection / ignition mapping adjusted.

The hybrid system works seamlessly with the 1.6 turbo petrol engine, especially during start-up phase at low rpms when the efficiency of the conventional engine not yet optimum.

The super capacitor can release the energy recovered under braking for a maximum duration of 10 seconds, while the total power of the two electric motors is limited to 40 hp.

To maintain a sufficient state of charge in the super capacitor, the third electric motor can be used at any time as a generator.

Depending on the state of charge of the battery, the Yaris Hybrid-R may also operate in full electric mode for short distances, especially during parking operations.

Good to know
- 40 hp for 10 seconds in "road" mode
- 120 hp for 5 seconds in "track" mode
- Torque vectoring: the amount of torque channelled to each rear wheel can vary thanks to the rear electric motors
- Advanced traction control: third electric motor redirects extra amount of torque as electric energy to the rear wheels

A 'Track' mode for track days
The 'Track' mode makes full use of the maximum system output of the engine and a performance oriented energy management. The 1.6 turbo engine develops 300 hp and provides maximum torque of 420 Nm, while the rear electric motors can reach a combined maximum power peak of 120 hp for up to 5 seconds.

At low speeds, or in a curve, when the engine power and torque exceed the grip potential of the front wheels, the third electric motor can directly power the rear electric motors. The generator behaves like an advanced traction control system, redirecting the petrol engine extra amount of torque as electric energy to the rear wheels.

Rear electric motors - one per wheel â€" can greatly influence the Yaris Hybrid-R handling characteristics during cornering by altering the distribution of torque between the left and right rear wheels.

Each engine can be used independently as a generator or a motor to achieve the same effect as an intelligent torque vectoring differential.

Depending on the radius of the curve, the system can send more torque to the outside rear wheel allowing higher cornering speeds into the corner (middle-speed curves), apply more braking force to the inside wheel (fast curves), or even brake and accelerate each wheel independently (slow curves) to adjust the yaw effect for a better line, to limit steering angle, and understeer.

With the particularly high system output of its hybrid powertrain, an energy management system strongly oriented towards the reach of maximum performance and the utilisation of the engines for better handling, the Yaris Hybrid-R concept indicates a potential direction for the development of hybrid technology towards more driving pleasure.

Connecting the Real and Virtual worlds
The Yaris Hybrid-R concept utilises the same CAN-Gateway ECU system developed for the GT86 coupe in collaboration with the video game developer Polyphony for the 6th version of the famous GranTurismo game to be launched before the end of the year.

Unveiled last spring at the Silverstone circuit at the occasion of the 15 years anniversary of the Gran Turismo game, the CAN-Gateway ECU system allows the drivers of the GT86 Coupe to record on a USB key, or on a Smartphone, the racing data collected while driving on the track. GPS data, longitudinal accelerations, steering angles, gear changes, engine speed, vehicle speed, and even water temperature are then used to reproduce the conditions of a real lap of the track on the video game console and compare it to virtual laps done with the game.

The Yaris Hybrid-R Concept takes this technology one step further, by utilising the same principle but in a reverse way. We could imagine that the data of the laps recorded through the video game could be sent to the vehicle ECU. The electronic management of the car could potentially anticipate the driving conditions of each track, to optimise the phases of energy recovery, the operation of the traction control, the amount of energy used at each step and optimise the handling through the rear electric motors.

A 1.6l turbo engine designed for competition
The 1.6l turbo engine of the Yaris Hybrid-R concept was developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH. It meets the FIA regulations for a global motor (Global Race Engine â€" "GRE"). To reduce the cost of motorsport, the FIA has setup specific rules for a unique 4-cylinder engine designed to be used in a variety of motorsport disciplines.

Each discipline can set its own technical regulations, in terms of displacement between 1.6 and 2-litre,whether it is turbocharged or not and therefore with power levels ranging from 150 to 500 hp. Originally, even Formula 1 cars could have been equipped with this engine.

As this engine is specifically adapted to racing conditions, it should be more reliable and less expensive to maintain than an engine derived from the production series.

Since 2011, the GRE formula has been used as a 1.6l turbo in the World Rally Championship (WRC) and in the World Touring Car Championship (WTCC). Next year, it will make its debut in Formula 3 as an atmospheric 2.0 litre version.

The GRE engine developed by Toyota Motorsport GmbH has already undertaken extensive performance and reliability testing on the dynamometers at the technical centre in Cologne. Upon completion of the development programme, TMG will make the GRE available to private teams whilst also using it as a base for any possible Toyota motorsport programme in the future.

Key TMG Global Race Engine Specifications
Engine Size: 1595 cm3
Fuel System Type: Direct Injection (up to 200 bar)
Air System Type: Turbo Garett GTR2560R (max boost pressure : 2.5 bar)
Air restrictor: 33 mm
Max. Power: + de 300 ch at 6000 rpm
Max. Torque : 420 Nm
Max. RPM : 7500 rpm

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Official: Land Rover reveals minor LR4 updates

With the Range Rover and Range Rover Sport having recently been replaced, and the Evoque getting a series of updates, the LR4 (or Discovery as it's known overseas) soldiers on alongside the LR2 Freelander and Defender) as one of the older models in the Land Rover lineup. But the British marque has now announced a series of minor upgrades - previewed by the spy shots we brought you in July - that seek to keep the LR4 at the top of its game.

The updates consists primarily of a subtle facelift and some new tech. Up front you'll find a new grille, bumper, headlights and daytime running lights. There are also new wheel designs available, of course, but the badging updates - including "Discovery" lettering replacing the "Land Rover" on the nose - won't be making the transatlantic voyage since the model goes by an alphanumeric designation here.

Land Rover has also integrated some of the electronics developed for the new Range Rovers, including the depth sounder and various traffic monitoring systems. There's also a new Meridian audio system available, and Land Rover has integrated its stop/start system and eight-speed automatic transmission across the range. Details have only been announced at this point for the UK market, where the revised model will begin delivery in November, but expect the changes to hit US showrooms shortly thereafter. In the meantime we'll anticipate scoping out the changes at the Frankfurt Motor Show next week.

FRESH DESIGN, IMPROVED ECONOMY AND NEW FEATURES FOR 2014 DISCOVERY

- Exterior refresh with distinctive new face and new 'Discovery' badging
- Intelligent Stop-Start improves fuel economy and reduces emissions
- Upgraded models available to order now with UK deliveries from mid-November.

Whitley, 3rd September 2013. Land Rover announces upgrades to the multi-award winning 2014 Discovery. The 2014 Discovery receives a new look, new badging, new fuel stretching technology, improved audio systems and a new range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features to broaden its appeal even further. The core attributes are carried over into the 2014 models which will be available to order now with deliveries from mid-November.

"The hugely popular Discovery continues to move from strength to strength and the addition of improvements in fuel economy and emissions underpins our commitment to delivering power with sustainability. As one of the world's most stylish, capable and versatile SUVs, the Discovery is the perfect vehicle for people who enjoy living an active lifestyle to the full," said Land Rover Global Brand Director, John Edwards.

For 2014, Discovery has been given a new 'face' and numerous detail exterior changes. A new front grille, new front bumper, new headlamp design, new daytime running lights with a distinctive LED signature, plus two new alloy wheel designs, further enhance the Discovery's appearance. To give vehicles a heightened level of distinction, the optional 'Black Design Pack' remains available for 2014 models, with revised detailing, plus 20-inch black alloy wheels.

New 'Discovery' badging

In recognition of the Discovery's established identity, the refreshed exterior design for 2014 also incorporates a change of identity for the vehicle in many markets. For the first time ever, the name 'Discovery' name replaces 'Land Rover' on the bonnet and the number 4 will be removed from the tailgate leaving just the word 'Discovery.'

Engine badging moves from the tailgate to an ingot mounted on each of the front doors. This sidebadging will reflect the engine type and appear as 'SDV6' in the UK market. In the USA and the Middle East the vehicle's badging will remain as previous models.

Improvements in fuel efficiency

Underlining Land Rover's commitment to power with sustainability, the 2014 Discovery will continue to be available with the class-leading 256PS 3.0 SDV6 â€" with CO2 emissions reduced from 230g/km to 213g/km, and fuel consumption improved to 35.3mpg. All models are equipped with an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission.

New driver aids and premium audio

The new range of driver assistance, comfort and safety features for the 2014 Discovery include: Wade Sensing (a technology unique to Land Rover), Blind Spot Monitoring, Closing Vehicle Sensing, Reverse Traffic Detection and T-junction Cameras.

To align the 2014 Discovery with other Range Rover vehicles, it will be available with Meridian premium audio. The standard system features 8 speakers and 380 Watts of power, while the Meridian Surround system produces an impressive 825 Watts output and features 17 speakers.

Technical Specifications

2014 Land Rover Discovery (UK) 3.0L V6 Diesel (UK/Euro)
Engine type 3.0L SDV6 Diesel
Power PS/rpm 256PS@4000
Torque Nm/rpm 600@2000
0-60mph secs 8.8
Max speed mph (km/h) 112 (180)
CO2 g/km 213
Combined mpg (L/100k) 35.3 (8.0)
Kerb weight kg 2570

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