The 2009 Tundra will continue to offer a choice of 45 model variations in three wheelbases, three cab styles, three bed lengths, three engines, three trim levels, and with 4×2 and 4×4 drivetrains. Tundra E85 flex fuel models are now standard on 5.7-liter 4×4 models in select regions, creating nine additional model configurations. Toyota is further expanding consumer choice for the 2009 Tundra with the addition of two new Toyota Racing Development (TRD) option packages.

Tundra flex fuel models deliver the same excellent performance as their regular gas counterparts in engine output, towing and payload capacity and can run on either E85 or regular gas. Also, Tundra flex fuel models carry the same price as their identically configured regular gas models.

Two new TRD option packages underscore two sides of Tundra’s capability. A new TRD Sport Package is optimized for an aggressive street appearance, while a new TRD Rock Warrior Package is specially tuned and equipped with dynamic appearance features for off-road adventure and a powerful look.

TRD Sport will be available on the Tundra grade 4×2 Regular Cab and Double Cab standard bed models with the 5.7-liter V8. The TRD Sport is equipped with color-keyed front and rear bumpers and grille surround, color-keyed heated outside mirrors, color-keyed door handles, fog lamps, black cloth interior with manual bucket seats, accessory shift knob and pedal covers, accessory 20-inch machined star five-spoke alloy wheels and TRD Sport Edition side panel graphics. The TRD Sport package will be available in two exterior colors, Black and Radiant Red.

The MSRP for the TRD Sport Package is $2,408 for the Double Cab and $3,813 for the Regular Cab. In addition to the exclusive features listed above, the price of the TRD Sport Package Regular Cab also includes power windows and door locks, cruise control, remote keyless entry system, engine skidplate, variable intermittent wipers, passenger side fold flat seat, and carpeted floormats.

TRD Rock Warrior will be available exclusively on the Tundra grade 4×4 Double Cab (standard bed) and CrewMax equipped with the 5.7-liter V8 engine. In addition to its tuned suspension, the TRD Rock Warrior is equipped with Bilstein(R) shocks, TRD 17-inch forged alloy wheels with BF Goodrich(R) All-Terrain T/A tires, color-keyed front bumper and grille surround, matte-black steel rear bumper, fog lamps, black cloth interior with manual bucket seats, accessory shift knob and pedal covers, and TRD Rock Warrior side panel graphics. The Rock Warrior will come in two exterior colors, Black and Super White.

The price for the TRD Rock Warrior package is $3,177 for both the CrewMax and Double Cab.

The MSRP for the 2009 Tundra Regular Cab ranges from $22,490 for the Tundra grade 4×2 with V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $28,070 for the long-bed 4×4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

Tundra Double cab MSRP ranges from $24,945 for the Tundra grade 4×2 with V6 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $39,070 for the Limited grade 4×4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

Tundra CrewMax MSRP ranges from $27,915 for the Tundra grade 4×2 with V8 engine and five-speed automatic transmission, to $41,605 for the Limited grade 4×4 with 5.7L V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission.

  The 2009 Tundra is at dealerships now.

  4x2 TUNDRA        Grade                     Doors    Body Style    Trans
  ----------        -----                     -----    ----------    -----
     8202           V6                          2      Reg Cab        5ECT
     8204           V6                          2      Reg Cab LB     5ECT
     8222           V8 4.7L                     2      Reg Cab        5ECT
     8224           V8 5.7L                     2      Reg Cab        6ECT
     8226           V8 4.7L                     2      Reg Cab LB     5ECT
     8228           V8 5.7L                     2      Reg Cab LB     6ECT
     8215           Tundra Grade                4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8216           SR5 V6                      4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8239           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8240           SR5 V8 4.7L                 4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8241           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8242           SR5 V8 5.7L                 4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8243           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      Double Cab LB  5ECT
     8245           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      Double Cab LB  6ECT
     8252           LTD 5.7                     4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8259           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      CrewMax        5ECT
     8260           SR5 V8 4.7L                 4      CrewMax        5ECT
     8261           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8262           SR5 V8 5.7L                 4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8272           LTD V8 5.7L                 4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8322           V8 4.7L                     2      Reg Cab        5ECT

  4x4 TUNDRA
  ----------
     8323           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L(FFV)   2      Reg Cab        6ECT
     8324           V8 5.7L                     2      Reg Cab        6ECT
     8326           V8 4.7L                     2      Reg Cab LB     5ECT
     8327           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L(FFV)   2      Reg Cab LB     6ECT
     8328           V8 5.7L                     2      Reg Cab LB     6ECT
     8331           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L(FFV)   4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8332           SR5 V8 5.7L (FFV)           4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8335           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L(FFV)   4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8339           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8340           SR5 V8 4.7L                 4      Double Cab     5ECT
     8341           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8342           SR5 V8 5.7L                 4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8343           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      Double Cab LB  5ECT
     8345           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      Double Cab LB  6ECT
     8352           LTD V8 5.7L                 4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8354           LTD V8 5.7L (FFV)           4      Double Cab     6ECT
     8359           Tundra Grade V8 4.7L        4      CrewMax        5ECT
     8360           SR5 V8 4.7L                 4      CrewMax        5ECT
     8361           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L        4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8362           SR5 V8 5.7L                 4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8363           Tundra Grade V8 5.7L(FFV)   4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8364           SR5 V8 5.7L (FFV)           4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8372           LTD V8 5.7L                 4      CrewMax        6ECT
     8374           LTD V8 5.7L (FFV)           4      CrewMax        6ECT

                             2008          MSRP        2009         %
  4x2 TUNDRA                 MSRP         CHANGE       MSRP       CHANGE
  ----------              ---------   -----------  ---------    --------
     8202                  $22,390        $100      $22,490       0.4%
     8204                  $22,720        $100      $22,820       0.4%
     8222                  $23,530        $100      $23,630       0.4%
     8224                  $24,480        $200      $24,680       0.8%
     8226                  $23,860        $100      $23,960       0.4%
     8228                  $24,810        $200      $25,010       0.8%
     8215                  $24,815        $130      $24,945       0.5%
     8216                  $26,205        $100      $26,305       0.4%
     8239                  $24,960        $130      $25,090       0.5%
     8240                  $26,950        $100      $27,050       0.4%
     8241                  $26,150        $240      $26,390       0.9%
     8242                  $28,210        $200      $28,410       0.7%
     8243                  $25,890        $130      $26,020       0.5%
     8245                  $27,140        $240      $27,380       0.9%
     8252                  $35,810        $200      $36,010       0.6%
     8259                  $27,785        $130      $27,915       0.5%
     8260                  $29,775        $100      $29,875       0.3%
     8261                  $28,975        $240      $29,215       0.8%
     8262                  $31,035        $200      $31,235       0.6%
     8272                  $39,110       ($565)     $38,545      -1.4%
     8322                  $26,580        $100      $26,680       0.4%

  4x4 TUNDRA
  ----------
     8323                                           $27,740
     8324                  $27,540        $200      $27,740       0.7%
     8326                  $26,910        $100      $27,010       0.4%
     8327                                           $28,070
     8328                  $27,870        $200      $28,070       0.7%
     8331                                           $29,440
     8332                                           $31,460
     8335                                           $30,430
     8339                  $28,010        $130      $28,140       0.5%
     8340                  $30,000        $100      $30,100       0.3%
     8341                  $29,210        $230      $29,440       0.8%
     8342                  $31,260        $200      $31,460       0.6%
     8343                  $28,940        $130      $29,070       0.4%
     8345                  $30,200        $230      $30,430       0.8%
     8352                  $38,870        $200      $39,070       0.5%
     8354                                           $39,070
     8359                  $30,835        $130      $30,965       0.4%
     8360                  $32,825        $100      $32,925       0.3%
     8361                  $32,035        $230      $32,265       0.7%
     8362                  $34,085        $200      $34,285       0.6%
     8363                                           $32,265
     8364                                           $34,285
     8372                  $42,170       ($565)     $41,605      -1.3%
     8374                                           $41,605

Thirty new VW Jetta Diesel TDIs, powered by 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engines that produce 170 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, tackled some of the top road racing courses in North America during the Volkswagen Jetta Diesel TDI Cup, a multi-race series of basically stock Jetta ‘clean diesels’ racing at major road tracks from Lime Rock to Road Atlanta.

“What we have here are virtually stock diesel passenger cars that raced hard throughout the summer and fall, averaging fuel mileage in the mid- twenties and running absolutely clean under very tough full road race conditions,” said Wolfgang Hustedt, Motorsports Manager for Bosch, which supplies the advanced fuel system that helps make these vehicles fuel efficient and ‘green.’

‘Common Rail’ - Key to Efficiency

The heart of these clean, highly efficient engines is a Bosch common-rail fuel injection system that uses fast, precise Bosch piezoelectric fuel injectors, instead of a traditional mechanical system. Diesel fuel is pressurized along a “common rail” for delivery to electronically activated injectors for each cylinder. This technology permits higher injection pressures, which better atomize the fuel, enhance performance and make it easier to control pollution.

“This is the stock setup for the VW Jetta Diesel TDI - basically the same engine and car any motorist would get if he picks one up and takes it home - with the addition of racing ABS brakes and suspension,” Hustedt said. “This advanced diesel technology allows the vehicle to become the first automobile to meet the world’s most stringent emission control standards - California’s Tier II, Bin 5,” he added.

Fast Acting Injectors Play a Big Role

The latest common rail system relies on highly precise rapidly switching piezo injectors, which have 75 percent fewer moving components and mass, allowing them to switch at double the speed of previous solenoid-valve injectors. This allows the piezo injectors to significantly lower diesel emissions, increase the achievable engine power and noticeably lower engine noise - depending on the specifics of the engine.

“The Jetta TDI diesels operating with this system are very powerful with lots of torque in addition to high fuel efficiency and very low emissions - and they are very quiet,” Hustedt said.

“In older diesel engines, the fuel management system was almost entirely mechanical,” Hustedt said. “Higher pressures in the new electronically controlled systems allow injectors to deliver finer atomization of the fuel, while improving combustion efficiency and lowering particulate emissions.”

To help make it ‘green,’ in addition to the sophisticated Bosch fuel system components, the Jetta also uses a Noxstorage catalyst, which is basically a reservoir that temporarily holds the noxious emissions like a particulate filter, until they can be burned off during one of the engine cycles.

The new Azure T, specified with the high performance version of Crewe’s iconic 6¾ litre V8 engine, is the latest in a line of Bentley models to bear the ‘T’ legend. The 1996 Continental coupe was the first modern Bentley ‘T’, followed in 2002 by the Arnage T, both flagship models with a distinctive sporting character and thunderous performance.

The Azure’s already striking form is now enhanced by 20-inch 5-spoke wheels and tyres, ‘Le Mans’ front wing vents, dark tint matrix grille and a sculpted, retractable Flying ‘B’ mascot.
For the performance-oriented Azure T, the twin-turbocharged V8 engine produces 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – an 11 per cent increase in power and a 14 per cent increase in torque over its 450bhp/875 Nm Azure stable mate.

The famous Bentley wave of torque is even more prodigious than before and performance is significantly raised with a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) and a 0-60 mph time of just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 sec).

Member of the Board, Sales and Marketing, Stuart McCullough comments:
“The new Azure T reflects our passion for creating the world’s most exhilarating and prestigious convertibles that, true to the Bentley T tradition, blend sophistication with a powerful presence.”

BENTLEY AZURE T – NEWS IN BRIEF

• Exterior design styling changes, as standard, include:
20-inch five-spoke ‘Bright Finish’ alloy wheels
Retractable ‘Flying B’ bonnet mascot
Dark tint matrix upper and lower grilles
‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents
Bentley ‘Jewel’ fuel filler cap
Twin exhaust tail pipes
Choice of 42 exterior paint colours

• Interior design enhancements, as standard, include:
Diamond quilting to seats and door panels
Drilled alloy brake and accelerator pedals
‘Engine-turned’ aluminium finish to fascia
Instrument faces in black
Embroidered ‘Bentley’ emblems to front seats and rear seat centre
iPod/USB interface
Choice of 8 unbleached veneers and 25 hides from full Bentley range
Knurled finish to: organ stops, mirror adjustors, door handles (interior and exterior), light switch and seat lumbar controls
Knurled & chromed gear knob
• Further enhancements to the standard Azure T specification include:
Large display audio head unit with Secure Digital (SD) memory card slot
Hide covered boot rail
• Further enhancements to the Azure T optional specification include:
‘Naim for Bentley’ premium audio system delivering the world’s best in-car sound stage and featuring 10 speakers, a dual channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual Digital Signal Processor (DSP) modes to reproduce true emotions and a ‘live’ concert-like experience.
• Arnage T powertrain with 6¾ litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine, producing 500bhp and 1000 Nm of torque – increases of 11% and 14 % respectively
• Top speed raised to 179 mph (288 km/h).
• 0-60 mph in 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds).
• Acceleration to 100 mph cut to 12.1 seconds (0-160 km/h in 12.0 seconds).
• Six-speed ZF automatic transmission with sophisticated locking torque converter provides fast yet ultra-smooth gearshifts
• Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) logic system improves dynamic response and handling with less intrusive intervention when a reduction in grip is detected
• Tyre Pressure Monitoring System fitted as standard
A UNIQUE OPEN-TOP MOTORING EXPERIENCE
Based on the Azure, the Azure T offers a range of discreet exterior cues that further enhance its powerful stance and hint at its increased performance potential. Key ingredients of its distinctive appearance include design features 20-inch five-spoke, two-piece alloy wheels and ‘Le Mans’ lower front wing air vents.
Further distinguishing points from the Azure are standard features such as dark-tinted upper and lower grilles, ‘jewel’ fuel filler cap (made from billet aluminium) and door mirror mountings finished in body colour.
Like the Bentley Brooklands, the Azure T sports the iconic Flying ‘B’ mascot, which can retract neatly into the grille surround. Originally designed by motoring artist F. Gordon Crosby, the ‘B’ was first used on the 1930 Bentley 8-Litre.
With exterior lines that echo visual elements of the Bentley Mk.6 from 1946, the Azure was enthusiastically received on its original debut as a concept car at the Los Angeles Show in January 2005. Now, as the Azure T makes its own ‘debut’ at LA, Raul Pires, Manager of Exterior design for Bentley Motors, notes:
“The Azure’s proportions provided us with the ideal platform to work with when creating the new Azure T. The prominent haunches and ‘supermodel’ body inspired our designers to create a new interpretation of a Bentley convertible with the accent placed on a more muscular, sporting stance.”
Bentley’s designers highlight the 1955 Park Ward S1 Drophead Coupé and 1995 Azure as the main influences for the current Azure and Azure T. Like the ’50s convertible, the car has a deep body with a single feature line that runs along both flanks and rises at the powerful rear haunches before spearing off at the rear of the car. Similarly, the Azure T’s fast and flowing roofline is echoed in its seven-bow canvas roof that gives the car a visible sporting profile when raised.
Prominent wheel arches grace a slender, narrowing boot that results in a ‘horse shoe’ trailing edge. This elegant shape is reminiscent of the first Crewe-built Bentley, the Mk.6, and the overall effect is a subtle hint at the power and performance that lies beneath the Azure T’s bodywork.
Delicate brightware detailing accentuates the flowing lines of the Azure T and this includes rear tail-lamp bezels, exhaust finishes and slender strips that run the length of the car.
Significant time and effort has gone into making the Azure T’s folding roof attractive as well as highly functional. Operated hydraulically at the touch of a switch, the impressive, three-layer canvas roof is elegantly stowed beneath the rear parcel shelf in a matter of 25 seconds. Because the roof is held in a separate well area, there is no impact on the generous boot space which was designed to hold two sets of golf clubs and hand luggage.

EFFORTLESS PERFORMANCE FROM MIGHTY V8
The engine and transmission of the Azure T are identical to those already employed in the high-performance Arnage T and Arnage Final Series saloons. In this specification, Bentley’s remarkable all-aluminium 6¾ litre V8 engine produces 500 bhp (507PS/373kW) and 1000 Nm (738lb ft) of torque – with over 90 per cent of that torque available between 1,800 and 3,800 rev/min – figures that ensure the signature Bentley ‘wave of torque’ delivers effortless performance for a unique open-top convertible driving experience.
Each of these hand-made V8 engines comes with a black-finish air intake manifold bearing the signature of the team leader who oversaw its construction by Bentley technicians in the Crewe factory. The six-speed ZF automatic transmission ensures optimum flexibility, response and refinement. Three transmission modes (Drive, Sport and Manual) allow the driver to take full advantage of the powerful 500 bhp V8 engine.

A sophisticated electronic management system provides fast yet smooth gearshifts regardless of how the car is being driven. Another important feature of the latest Azure T is the separation of the sports suspension and sports gearbox settings, allowing the driver to select their preference for each system independently – via a ‘Sport’ switch on the dashboard forthe suspension and by positioning the gearlever for the transmission’s Sport mode.

Bentley’s V8 guarantees outstanding performance levels. From standstill, acceleration to 60 mph is achieved in just 5.2 seconds (0-100 km/h 5.5 seconds), 100 mph reached in 12.1 seconds (160 km/h in 12.0 seconds) and a top speed of 179 mph (288 km/h) is possible.

DYNAMIC HANDLING, SUPERB RIDE AND AWESOME BRAKING
The Azure’s double wishbone front and rear suspension is carried over to the Azure T unaltered. Set-up and fine-tuned to give a refined ride that best suits the character of this convertible Bentley, the system features coil springs with computer-controlled, adaptive electro-hydraulic dampers and automatic ride-height control with auto-load compensation.
The Azure T’s suspension delivers impressive body control in all driving conditions, while the new five-spoke, two-piece 8.5J x 20-inch Sports alloy wheels with 255/40 ZR20 Pirelli P Zero tyres further improve handling and road holding.
As an option, Azure T owners may specify an upgraded braking system with carbon/silicon carbide, cross-drilled brake ventilated discs. Measuring 420 x 40 mm (front) and 356 x 28 mm (rear), these discs are the largest fitted to any production car on sale today. With eight-piston callipers, the brakes provide impressive deceleration and also give an 8 kg reduction in unsprung weight, benefiting steering response, ride suppleness and acceleration.
This lightweight braking system ensures virtually fade-free use, time after time, and superb resistance to disc distortion under high thermal conditions. Under normal use, the brake discs will last the lifetime of the car and pad life is doubled compare to the standard system.
For Azure T and its Bentley stable mates, the Traction Control system is calibrated with the aim of avoiding all unnecessary reductions in engine torque. The ESP logic system, which is set up to allow spirited handling without any reduction in stability or safety, monitors the car’s overall stability rather than simply loss of grip to the wheels. This reduces the amount of intervention required and restores power earlier and more progressively, allowing the power of the Azure T’s V8 engine to be fully exploited.

The Bentley Azure T enjoys an 11 per cent power and 14 per cent torque increase compared with Azure and the strength and stiffness of the original chassis are such that no changes were deemed necessary, as Brian Gush, Director of Powertrain and Chassis, explains:
“The Azure chassis has always had an immense potential and this enables us to offer the extra power of our 500 bhp V8 engine and the driver-focused qualities of a true Bentley T without compromising ride comfort.”

Compared with the Arnage, the Azure T benefits from significant stiffening members. These strengthened steel parts lie in the sill section of the car and extend into the A-pillars that form the windscreen frame. Beneath the front and rear of the Azure, carbon fibre cross-bracing members reinforce the whole bodyshell, while adding far less weight than steel.
Strengthening has also been applied to the body structure behind the rear seats where an advanced rollover protection system is fitted. This immediately detects if the car is in danger of inverting and deploys two hoops that are integrated within the rear headrests. In conjunction with the strengthened front windscreen frame, these are capable of supporting 2.5 times the entire weight of an over-turned car.

EXQUISITE CRAFTSMANSHIP

Befitting its role as a new Bentley flagship convertible, the Azure T embodies a range of standard features that were previously unavailable or only available as cost options on the Azure. The seats and door panels have Diamond Quilting, the fascia features an ‘engine-turned’ aluminium finish (reminiscent of 1920s racing Bentleys), and the instrument faces are finished in Black rather than Parchment.
Bentley emblems are embroidered on the front seat backs and the rear seat centre, an iPod/USB interface is provided, while the full range of Bentley’s premium veneers is available, a knurled finish is applied to several handles and switches and a knurled, chrome gear knob is fitted.
The new Azure T will have a strong appeal to Bentley customers, as Trevor Gay, Personal Commissioning Manager at Mulliner (Bentley’s specialist commissioning department), explains:
“The Azure has always stood apart from the rest of the Bentley range and the higher-performance Azure T will allow customers the opportunity to use the Mulliner service to create a bespoke convertible to their exact specification.”

Although many of the most desirable Mulliner options are included in Azure T as standard, Bentley anticipates that the majority of buyers will request additional enhancements. Inside, the Azure T is everything customers would expect of a bespoke Bentley, offering the highest levels of hand-craftsmanship to a small, discerning audience. The interior offers a spacious, luxurious cabin to provide the ultimate in first-class, open-top travel for four adults.
As in every Bentley, craftsmanship and bespoke finishing are to the fore. Every item of trim, be it veneer, hide or chromed bezel, uses authentic materials.
Azure T is available in the full Bentley range of 42 exterior colours, 25 interior hides, and the full range of premium veneers, plus the comprehensive line-up of Mulliner options and its bespoke colour-matching service that enable Bentley owners to create a uniquely personal car.

Of course, the nature of a convertible means that its interior is often on display as much as its exterior and Bentley’s design team knew that the Azure T’s spacious cabin should make a strong a statement. Consequently, warm and inviting leather hide extend past the seats and onto the parcel shelf and this emphasises the dimensions of the rear compartment.

A new audio head unit with larger display screen and an SD (secure digital) memory card slot instead of the single CD slot is fitted. At the rear, a new hide-covered boot rail with coordinated leather trim and a chrome strip along the top edge gives the load area a tidier, premium appearance.
All Azure T models come with an iPod Interface linked to the Infotainment system, enabling customers to play their favourite music through the car’s audio system. The system is supplied with connectors for iPod, USB, Mini USB and a 3.5 mm AUX jack and includes a 12 volt power outlet for charging purposes.

As an option, Azure T buyers can specify the Naim for Bentley premium audio system. Created in partnership with Bentley by Naim Audio, a UK-based high end hi-fi manufacturer, this system features 10 speakers, a dual-channel sub-woofer and an 1100 Watt amplifier, plus eight individual DSP modes to reproduce true emotions and a ‘live’ concert-like experience.
In Azure T the sub-woofers are located in the rear passenger footwells and contained within a special enclosure to ensure the sound of this pure music remains within the open cabin.

BENTLEY AZURE T – TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
AZURE T AZURE
POWERTRAIN
Engine type Twin-turbocharged
90-degree V8 Twin-turbocharged 90-degree V8
Engine displacement 6¾ litres, 6761 cc 6¾ litres, 6761 cc
Maximum power 500 bhp / 507 PS / 373 kW
@ 4,200 rev/min 450 bhp / 456 PS / 336kW @ 4100 rev/min
Maximum torque 738 lb ft / 1,000 Nm @
3,200 rev/min 645 lb ft / 875Nm @ 1,800 rev/min
Compression ratio 7.8:1 7.8:1
Emission standards EU IV / US LEV II EU IV / US LEV II
Transmission 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox
with semi-automatic and
sports functions 6-speed ZF automatic gearbox with semi-automatic and sports functions
PERFORMANCE
0-60 mph 5.2 sec 5.6 sec
0-100 km/h 5.5 sec 5.9 sec
0-100 mph 12.1 sec 13.4 sec
0-160 km/h 12.0 sec 13.3 sec
Maximum speed 179 mph/288 km/h 171 mph/274 km/h
CHASSIS
Steering 3.18 turns lock-to-lock
Type Speed sensitive, hydraulic power assisted, rack and pinion steering system

Suspension Double wishbones front and rear, with coil springs and computer-controlled adaptive, electro-hydraulic damping system (ARC) and automatic ride-height control with auto load compensation and headlamp levelling

Braking (front/rear) Micro-alloy ventilated discs
Hydraulically boosted front and rear circuits with stability control system
FUEL CONSUMPTION
Urban 28.8 (litres/100km) / 9.8 mpg
Extra-urban 14.1 (litres/100km) / 20.1 mpg
Combined 19.5 (litres/100km) / 14.5 mpg
EU drive cycle CO2
Fuel type 465 g/km (combined)
98 (95) RON
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Overall length
Overall width
Overall height
Wheelbase 5410 mm (212.60 in)
2125 mm (83.66 in) including door mirrors
1492 mm (58.74 in)
3116 mm (122.68 in)
Front track 1608 mm (63.13 in)
Rear track 1608 mm (63.13 in)
Width 1900 mm (74.8 in) with mirrors folded
Luggage compartment 0.316m3 / 310 litres / 10.95 cu ft
WEIGHTS
Kerb weight 2695 kg (5699 lbs)
Gross vehicle weight 3065 kg (7948 lbs)
Front axle weight 1535 kg (3384 lbs)
Rear axle weight 1615 kg (3560 lbs)
Fuel tank capacity 96.0 litres (25.3 US gallons)

BENTLEY AZURE T – STANDARD FEATURES
EXTERIOR FEATURES
o Choice of 42 exterior paint colours
o Retractable ‘Flying B’ bonnet mascot
o Body coloured headlamp bezels
o Dark tint upper and lower grilles
o ‘Le Mans’ lower front wing vents
o Bentley ‘jewel’ fuel filler cap
o Twin oval exhaust tail pipes
o 20-inch five-spoke Sport aluminium alloy wheels
o Body coloured door mirror mountings
o Black finish intake manifold for engine
INTERIOR FEATURES
o Leather hides with choice of 25 colours
o Diamond quilting to seats and door panels
o Treadplates featuring AZURE name
o Multiple choice of unbleached premium wood veneers from full range
o Bright engine spin ‘spun aluminium’ fascia finish
o Drilled alloy brake and accelerator
o Instrument faces in black
o Embroidered Marque emblems to front seat backs and rear seat centre
o iPod/USB interface with 12-volt power outlet
o Knurled finish to organ stops (front and rear), door mirror adjusters, interior door handles, exterior door handles, light switch and seat lumbar controls.
o Knurled chrome and hide sporting gear lever
o Leather trimmed boot rail
o Eight-speaker audio system with 6-disc CD changer in the boot and SD card slot in new dash-mounted head unit with larger display
SEATING / CONTROLS
o Memory facility linking driver’s seat, exterior mirrors and steering wheel
o Electrically adjustable tilt steering wheel with cruise control switches
o Electrochromic self-dimming interior rear-view mirror
o Electrochromic door mirrors dip on selection of reverse
o One-touch front window operation
o Multi-zone air-conditioning system
o Dehumidifier plus pollen and dust micro-filters
SAFETY & SECURITY
o Dual front, plus front and rear thorax and curtain airbags
o Pre-tensioned and load-limited seatbelts
o Tyre pressure monitoring system
o Xenon dipped beam headlamps
o ESP (Electronic Stability Programme)
o Hydraulic Brake Assist (HBA)
o Park Distance Control (front and rear)
o Multi-function programmable alarm and immobiliser
o Perimeter monitor with inclination sensor
o Volumetric interior monitor with glass break sensor
o Central locking and deadlock system

BENTLEY AZURE T – OPTIONS AVAILABLE
REGULAR OPTIONS
o Naim for Bentley 1100 Watt premium audio system with 10 speakers
o Dark tint 20-inch five-spoke Sport aluminium alloy wheels
o Dark tint engine-turned aluminium fascia finish
o Carbon silicon carbide cross-drilled disc brakes
MULLINER OPTIONS (principal options only listed)
o Leather hides from previous Bentley model ranges
o Leather hide colours matched to customer specification
o Alternative premium veneers
o NavTrak ADR (Automatic Driver Recognition) with 24-hour car location and tracking (UK and Europe only)
SERVICE & WARRANTY
o Service intervals 10,000 miles or 12 months
o 3 Years unlimited mileage warranty

This time of year serves as a reminder that a drop in tire inflation pressures corresponds with the falling thermometer readings. Goodyear experts explain that air pressure in a tire typically goes down 1-2 pounds for every 10 degrees of temperature change.

“Odds are that many motorists haven’t checked their tire pressure since the weather began turning colder. If the last time the tire pressure was checked was during the heat of summer, with temperatures around 80 or 90 degrees, many people could be riding on severely underinflated tires without realizing it,” said Joey Viselli, Goodyear brand director.

Maintaining proper air pressure is the single most important thing drivers can do for their tires. Underinflation is the worst enemy a tire can have, as it causes increased treadwear on the shoulder area (outside edges) of the tire. It also can reduce fuel economy by increasing rolling resistance — since soft tires make the vehicle work harder.

Goodyear suggests checking tire inflation at least once per month with a reliable gauge. To find the proper air pressure for a tire, look in the vehicle owner’s manual, in the glove box or on the driver’s side door jamb. Hint: The inflation pressure stamped on the sidewall of a tire is the “maximum” pressure, not the “recommended” pressure.

“Even though consumers can simply and quickly check the air pressure of their tires, it becomes a neglected practice by many,” Viselli said. “That’s too bad, because the four patches of rubber that come in contact with the road surface are important to the performance of the vehicle. They are keys for acceleration, lateral traction and braking grip.”

For consumers who don’t want to bother with regular tire pressure checks, Goodyear offers a “Free Air” campaign. Motorists can have their tires — regardless of brand or where they were bought — inspected for free at any of the 650 Goodyear-owned stores, and at participating independently owned and operated locations across the country.

The increasing usage of in-dash tire pressure monitor systems on new vehicles will likely help more consumers to pay attention to their tires’ pressure levels. Still, Viselli urges the old-fashioned method of checking tire inflation.

“At least once a month, take a few minutes and check your tire pressure with an accurate tire gauge. You can’t tell if a tire needs air just by looking. It could be underinflated by 10 pounds and still look fine,” he said.

The Versa Sedan 1.6 goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning November 18, 2008.

“Starting under $10,000, this new Versa Sedan 1.6 has the lowest new-car MSRP in the United States,” said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. “It combines the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan. It’s our way of saying that in tough economic times, Nissan is here to help.”

Since its introduction in 2006, Nissan Versa has enjoyed strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa offers one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment - along with excellent quality, reliability and durability.

The new high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model features a smaller displacement 1.6-liter engine (versus the standard 1.8-liter), standard 5-speed manual transmission and simplified content. It is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the 5-speed manual and 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic.

“The new Versa Sedan 1.6 is another way in which Nissan is taking a leadership role in reassuring consumers that now is a great time to consider a new car,” said Carolin.

The MINI E’s electric drive train produces a peak torque of 220 Newton meters, delivering seamless acceleration to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 152 km/h (95 mph). Featuring a suspension system tuned to match its weight distribution, the MINI E sports the brand’s hallmark agility and outstanding handling.

By introducing the MINI E, the BMW Group is underscoring the resolve with which it works towards reducing energy consumption and emissions in road traffic. The BMW Group is drawing on its unique technological expertise in the field of drive systems to develop a vehicle concept enabling zero emissions without renouncing the joy of driving. Putting some 500 cars on the road under real daily traffic conditions will make it possible to gain widely applicable hands-on experience. Evaluating these findings will generate valuable know-how, which will be factored into the engineering of mass-produced vehicles.

The BMW Group aims to start series production of all-electric vehicles over the medium term as part of its Number ONE strategy. The development of innovative concepts for mobility in big-city conurbations within the scope of “project i” has a similar thrust, as its objective also includes making use of an all-electric power train.

The energy storage unit: cutting-edge lithium-ion technology engineered specifically for use in the MINI.

Based on the current MINI, the car will initially be available as a two-seater. The space taken up by back-seat passengers in the series model has been reserved for the lithium-ion battery. When in use in the zero-emissions MINI, the battery unit combines high output with ample storage capacity and a small footprint with power ratios that are unrivalled in this field of application so far. The lithium-ion storage unit will have a maximum capacity of 35 kilowatt hours (kWh) and transmit energy to the electric motor as direct current at a nominal 380 volts. The rechargeable battery is made up of 5,088 cells grouped into 48 modules. These modules are packaged into three battery elements that are compactly arranged inside the MINI E.

The energy storage unit’s basic components are based on the technological principle that has proven itself in practice in power supplies for mobile phones and portable computers. The MINI E’s lithium-ion battery can be plugged into all standard power outlets. Its charge time is strongly dependent on the voltage and amperage of the electricity flowing through the grid. In the USA, users can recharge a battery that has been completely drained within a very short period of time using a wallbox that will ship with every MINI E. The wallbox will be installed in the customer’s garage, enable higher amperage, and thus provide for extremely short charging times. Wallboxes fully recharge batteries after a mere two-and-a-half hours.

Driven by electricity: reliably, affordably and free of emissions.

A full recharge draws a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours of electricity from the grid. Based on the car’s range, a kilowatt hour translates into 5.4 miles. Besides the benefit of zero-emissions driving, the MINI E thus offers significant economic advantages over a vehicle powered by a conventional internal combustion engine as well.

The heavy-duty battery delivers its power to an electric motor, which transforms it into thrilling agility. Mounted transversely under the MINI E’s bonnet, the drive train unleashes its full thrust from a dead standstill. This provides for the car’s fascinating launch capability. The MINI E’s intense driving experience is augmented by its dynamic deceleration potential, which is also directly coupled to the accelerator pedal. As soon as the driver releases the gas pedal, the electric motor acts as a generator. This results in braking force, and the power recovered from the kinetic energy is fed back to the battery. This interaction ensures extremely comfortable drives - especially at medium speed with constant, but marginal, variation. In city traffic, some 75 percent of all deceleration can be done without the brakes. Making substantial use of this energy recuperation feature extends the car’s range by up to 20 percent.

Signature MINI agility in a new guise.

Weighing in at 1,465 kilograms (3.230 lbs), the MINI E has an even weight distribution. Minor modifications made to the suspension ensure safe handling at all times. The Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system has been adapted to this model’s specific wheel loads.

The MINI E’s brake system comes with a newly developed electric underpressure pump. Its Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPS) is the same as the one used in mass-produced MINIs. Both brake and steering assistance react to driving conditions and are thus extremely efficient. Even the air conditioning’s electrical compressor only operates if desired or necessary.

Design: unmistakably MINI, undoubtedly new.

At first glance, the MINI E is obviously an iteration of the brand. But its design, which is the blueprint for the zero-emissions two-seater, has been complemented by a number of visual cues that point to its revolutionary drive concept. All of the units produced for the pilot project will have the same paintwork and bear a serial number on their front fenders.

The MINI E’s coachwork sports an exclusive combination of metallic Dark Silver on all panels but the roof, which is clad in Pure Silver. What distinguishes the zero-emissions MINI is a specially designed logo in Interchange Yellow, depicting a stylized power plug in the shape of an “E” set against the silver backdrop. It has been applied to the roof, in smaller dimensions to the front and back, to the charger port lid, the dashboard trim, and - combined with the MINI logo - to the door jamb, in slightly modified form. The color of the roof edges, mirror housings, interior style cues and seat seams will match the logo’s yellow tone as well.

Moreover, the central gauge and the battery level indicator behind the wheel of the MINI E, which replaces the MINI’s rev counter, feature yellow lettering against a dark grey background. The battery level is displayed in percentage figures. The central gauge includes an LED display indicating power consumption in red and power recuperation in green.

MINI E customers will be part of a pioneering mission.

A 500-unit, limited-production MINI E series will be manufactured through the end of 2008. The project will thus attain an order of magnitude that clearly exceeds the size of currently comparable test series. Putting the MINI E on the road on a daily basis will be a pioneering feat to which both the drivers and engineers of the first zero-emissions MINI will contribute as a team.

MINI E customers will join forces with BMW Group experts to assist in the project’s scientific evaluation. MINI E engineers accord high importance to staying in touch with the drivers on a regular basis, as this will help them analyze driver behavior besides vehicle characteristics in order to gain the most accurate and realistic picture of the demands placed on a vehicle with a purely electrical drive in the select usage areas.

Special charging station and full service for every MINI E.

The cars will change hands based on a one-year lease with an extension option. Monthly lease installments will cover any required technical service including all necessary maintenance and the replacement of wearing parts. At the end of the lease, all of the automobiles belonging to the project will be returned to the BMW Group’s engineering fleet where they will be subjected to comparative tests.

The MINI E’s lithium-ion battery can be charged using a wallbox provided to MINI customers. Only lockable garages or similar buildings will qualify as homebases and power stations for the MINI E.

Maintenance by qualified specialists.

The electric drive’s high-voltage technology requires that maintenance work be done by qualified personnel using special tools that are not included in MINI service partners’ standard toolboxes. In light of this, a service base will be set up on both coasts, staffed by service engineers that are specially trained to perform maintenance and repair work on the MINI E’s electrical components. In the event of drive malfunction, these experts will provide professional support at the customer’s local MINI dealer or the service base’s specially equipped workshop. Technical inspections will take place after 3,000 miles (just under 5,000 kilometers) and at least after six months.

Production in Oxford and Munich.

The MINI E has already gone through the major phases of product development for mass-produced vehicles and passed numerous crash tests on the way. Aspects investigated besides passenger protection were the impact of collision forces on the lithium-ion battery and finding a non-hazardous location for it in the car. The MINI E’s energy storage unit emerged completely unscathed from all of the crash tests mandated by US standards, which are especially high.

Production of the approximately 500 cars will take place at the company’s Oxford and Munich sites and is scheduled for completion before the end of 2008. MINI’s UK plant will be responsible for manufacturing the entire vehicle with the exception of the drive components and the lithium-ion battery, with the brand’s series models rolling off its assembly lines concurrently. The units will then be transferred to a specially equipped manufacturing complex situated on BMW plant premises where the electric motor, battery units, performance electronics and transmission will be integrated.

Next step: have ski rental equipment delivered to you (they bring extra boots for a perfect fit. Nice!).
Next step: Receive any technical support during ski rental
Final step: Have ski rental equipment picked-up on final day

How easy was that? Very easy indeed!

The price is not so high. Actually, I can see that are the same or even lower prices than many of the local Park City ski rental shops and deer valley ski rentals shops!

Ski Butlers allows you to reserve your rental equipment online so you can try by yourself and let me know your experience with them. Ski Butlers serves the following ski resorts: Aspen, Snowmass, Highlands, Buttermilk, Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper, A-Basin, Telluride, Vail, Beaver Creek, Arrowhead, Park City, Deer Valley, The Canyons, Alta, Snowbird, Solitude, Brighton, Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, South Lake Tahoe, Heavenly, Sierra-At-Tahoe, Kirkwood, Whistler, and Blackcomb.

In preparation for the Monterey Sports Car Championships American Le Mans race at Laguna Seca in Monterey, Calif. on October 18, the Audi Sport drivers are already hitting the ground running to practice for the race and also interact with local Audi customers and race fans to share their enthusiasm for TDI clean diesel racing and road technology.

In addition to interacting with one of Audi Sport’s race car drivers, customers will be able to view the exciting and luxurious Audi lineup.

Event details:
Date: Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Time: 6:00 pm - 8:30 pm reception (presentation begins at 6:30 pm)
Location: Audi Stevens Creek / 3350 Stevens Creek Blvd. /
San Jose, CA 95117
RSVP: (408) 244 5400

“We’re really pleased to host the Stars & Cars event at our store with Audi and Audi Sport race car driver Marco Werner,” says Tony Newell, General Manager of Audi Stevens Creek in San Jose, Calif. “We also look forward to seeing our customers, who love to have direct access and hear about first-hand accounts of past and present racing feats.”