2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

The most powerful, technologically advanced, high-performance Jeep® vehicle ever – the all-new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8® – arrives this summer with a combination of Jeep’s legendary capability and utility, merged with the renowned advanced performance engineering from Chrysler Group LLC’s Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team.

Delivering outstanding driving performance in all conditions, and complemented by key SRT attributes – including functional, performance-oriented styling, world-class ride and handling, benchmark braking and race-inspired interior appointments – the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 broadens the Jeep vehicle lineup and builds upon the successful launch of the award-winning 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

“The all-new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the ultimate performance SUV, delivering a combination of Jeep capability and utility, world-class performance, luxury and refinement, and advanced innovative technology,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Jeep vehicles have long been known for their off-road capability. In addition to Jeep four-wheel-drive traction and utility, the Grand Cherokee SRT8 takes capability to a new level by giving driving enthusiasts extreme performance for the street and track.

“Our new benchmark performance SUV effectively broadens the Grand Cherokee portfolio, and will continue to draw new customers into Jeep showrooms,” Manley added.

Designed and built using the proven SRT formula that raises the performance to astonishing levels, the new 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 runs from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, 0-100-0 mph in the mid-16 second range, can cover the quarter mile in the mid-13 second range, has a top speed of 155 mph, and brakes from 60-0 mph in 116 feet.

Owners of any Chrysler Group SRT vehicle receive one day of professional driving instruction from the Richard Petty Racing School as part of the SRT Track Experience, designed to maximize their driving knowledge and skills on the street or track. Sessions are held throughout the year at selected tracks.

Awe-inspiring powertrain
Powering the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is Chrysler Group’s all-new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 with Fuel Saver Technology that delivers an estimated 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque – an improvement of 45 horsepower and 45 lb.-ft. torque over the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces.

An active intake manifold and high-lift camshaft with cam phasing delivers maximum low-end torque while optimizing high-end power across a wider and improved rpm band. Specifically,
90-percent of peak torque is available between 2,800 and 6,000 rpm, allowing for inspired standing starts and improved straight-line performance.

Standard Fuel Saver Technology and a new-for-2012 active valve exhaust system allows four-cylinder operation to engage over a wider rpm range, to deliver both improved fuel efficiency – an estimated 13-percent increase on the highway – and an extended range of approximately 450 miles on one tank of gas.

Standard steering wheel mounted paddle shifters join the standard AutoStick on the floor. Both are mated to a proven automatic transmission, allowing a choice of spirited shifting on the road and the race track. Both methods give the driver the ability to shift while the transmission controller calibration prevents situations that might over rev the engine. Fully adaptive electronic control of all shifting makes the powertrain more responsive while minimizing harshness.

Outstanding ride, handling and capability
For 2011, all Jeep Grand Cherokee models boast an improved and refined on-road ride thanks in part to the vehicle’s body structure. Torsional stiffness was improved 146 percent versus the previous model, for improved ride, durability and reduced noise, vibration and harshness. The improvement is achieved with more than 5,400 welds in the body alone, marking a 53-percent increase in spot welds, a 42-percent increase in arc welds and a 38-percent increase in structural adhesive.

With the new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8, engineers have improved handling even further.

The best handling Jeep vehicle ever – capable of .90 g on the skid pad – features a new SRT-tuned, adaptive damping suspension managed by the new Jeep Selec-Track system that interacts with several different systems (stability control, adaptive damping, transmission shift strategy, transfer case torque proportioning, Electronic Limited Slip Differential performance, throttle control and cylinder de-activation) to automatically tune the dynamics of the vehicle. Drivers can manually choose between five dynamic modes for specific driving conditions:

• Auto: provides the most compliant ride and automatically adapts to any road situation using the adaptive suspension tuning
• Sport: provides enhanced body control for a sporty, fun-to-drive ride for the street
• Tow: provides a safe reduction in pitch and bounce for enhanced towing capability
• Track: provides the high-performance, firm, “track-tuned” suspension option to lock down body motion for the ultimate handling experience
• Snow: provides the most conservative dynamic mode, so the vehicle will safely stay
in-line in inclement winter weather conditions

The standard Jeep Quadra-Trac active on-demand four-wheel-drive transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tire slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximizes traction before slippage occurs. When tire slippage is detected, the Jeep 4×4 system can transfer up to 100 percent of available torque to one rear wheel.

The transfer case also enhances handling by proportioning torque between the front and rear axles to maintain the driver’s intended path. The new Grand Cherokee SRT8 also features an Electronic Limited Slip Differential that eliminates rear wheel slip and improves handling.

The performance-tuned, fully-hydraulic steering system is improved with a new, heavy-duty pump and pump cooler. Revised gearing gives drivers more direct feel and on-center response.

New split 5-spoke, 20-inch forged aluminum wheels ride on P295/45ZR20 Pirelli PZero run-flat tires (standard All-season or available Three-season).

Rounding out the capability of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is a trailer tow rating of 5,000 lbs.

Outstanding braking
Chrysler Group’s SRT vehicles are well known for their world-class braking. Stopping power for the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 comes courtesy of new SRT high-performance Brembo brakes with four-wheel anti-lock brake system (ABS).

Stopping distance performance of 116 feet from 60-0 mph is made possible by new red-painted, Brembo 6-piston (front) and 4-piston (rear) calipers, and vented rotors at all four corners measuring 15-inches (front) and 13.8-inches (rear).

Aggressive and functional exterior
The functional performance exterior of the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 features the “planted” look of a high-performance sports car by being lowered 1 inch and adding new, SRT-exclusive, body-color wheel flares and side sill cladding.

A one-piece front fascia contains new LED multi-function daytime running lamps that result in an exclusive face for the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, while a body-colored front grille with a unique black screen background and chrome bezel inserts adds to the aggressive look.

The integrated lower front grille is painted in gloss black and a newly designed underbody belly pan features integrated brake ducting to improve cooling and fade performance. Completing the new front end is a newly sculpted hood with functional dual black heat extractors for added engine cooling.

At the rear, the SRT performance influence continues with a new liftgate spoiler that reduces drag and improves downforce. A unique one-piece rear fascia includes a separate air diffuser along with an available trailer receiver and access cover. New for the 2012 version of the Grand Cherokee SRT8 is the dual-sport exhaust system featuring 4-inch exhaust tips.

Race-inspired and functional interior
The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee’s refined, luxurious interior takes on a performance feel in SRT8 form with race-inspired technology and SRT-exclusive appointments.

An all-new, leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel features a unique rim section with a flattened bottom surface – evoking a race-inspired cockpit – that showcases the SRT logo. Standard paddle-shift controls flank both sides of the new contoured palm rests while all audio and Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) controls are accessible from the horizontal spokes on the steering wheel. A power tilt and telescoping steering column also is standard.

SRT-exclusive Performance Pages are new for 2012 and show instant feedback on steering input measurements, horsepower, torque, 0-60 mph time, 60-0 mph braking distance, g-forces, and one-eighth mile and quarter-mile times, along with expanded engine information.

New SRT-styled Nappa leather and suede seats, with sculpted bolsters and adjustable headrests, provide all the comfort for daily drives – and “grip” to keep the driver and passengers in place during spirited driving. The embroidered SRT logos and contrast stitching accent the two front seats. Heated (front and rear) and ventilated (front) seats are standard.

Carbon fiber accents are integrated into the instrument panel and door trim panels and new bright, racing style brake and pedal pads add to the high-performance look inside the cabin.

An available CommandView® dual-pane sun roof provides twice as much glass surface than a standard sun roof and extends from the windshield to the rear of the vehicle.

The available Luxury Group package adds premium leather to the door trim panels, instrument panel and center console along with a power liftgate, adaptive cruise control, Forward Collision Warning and Blind-spot Monitoring.

Safety and security
Already a recipient of the 2011 Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) ‘Top Safety Pick’ for the volume Grand Cherokee models, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 offers consumers 45 safety and security features including:

• Active head restraints: Deploy in the event of a rear collision. Restraints are designed to reduce injuries by minimizing the gap between the head restraint and the passenger’s head
• Active turn signals: Turn signal flashes three times when stalk is depressed for one second to indicate a lane change
• Adaptive cruise control (ACC): The system decreases the vehicle’s pre-set cruise-control speed when closing in on another vehicle in the same lane, or when another vehicle pulls into the same lane. The system will accelerate to the pre-set speed when the vehicle in front speeds up or moves into another lane. ACC will maintain a driver adjustable distance between the vehicle and the one in front of it, allowing the use of cruise control in light traffic without having to continuously adjust settings
• Advanced multi-stage air bags: Inflates with a force appropriate to the severity of the impact Meets FMVSS 208 advanced air bag requirements for smaller, out-of-position occupants
• Anti-lock brake system (ABS): Senses and prevents wheel lockup, offering improved steering control under extreme braking and/or slippery conditions
• Anti-lock brake system with rough-road detection: Anti-lock brake system capable of detecting if the vehicle is driving on a rough road by the oscillations in the wheel speed signals. When rough road is detected on off-road surfaces or trails, ABS enters a different pressure control where it will hold the brake pressure for longer pulses
• BeltAlert: Activates a chime and/or illuminates an icon in the instrument cluster to remind the driver and front passenger to buckle up if a vehicle is driven without belted front-seat occupants
• Blind-spot Monitoring (BSM): Uses dual ultra-wideband radar sensors to aid the driver when changing lanes, or if being passed by or passing unseen vehicles. The system notifies the driver of vehicle(s) in their blind spot via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
• Brake Assist: In an emergency brake situation, the system applies maximum braking power, minimizing the stopping distance
• Brake Override: When a disagreement exists between the throttle and the brake, the brake signal causes the engine controller to reduce engine power, allowing the operator to stop the car
• Brake-traction control system (BTCS): Helps to keep driving wheels from spinning
during acceleration from a stop or during slow speeds by applying individual brakes to the slipping wheel(s)
• Child seat anchor system: LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) is designed to ease installation of compatible aftermarket child seats
• Constant-force Retractors (CFR): Regulates the force exerted on the occupant by the seat belt, and then gradually releases seat-belt webbing in a controlled manner
• Electronic roll mitigation (ERM): An extension of electronic stability control (ESC). Uses input from ESC sensors to anticipate if the vehicle is at risk of entering a potential roll situation, then applies the brakes individually and modulates the throttle position as needed
• Electronic stability control (ESC): Enhances driver control and helps maintain directional stability under all conditions. Provides the benefit in critical driving situations such as turns, and is valuable when driving on mixed surface conditions including snow, ice or gravel. If there is a discernible difference between driver input through the steering wheel and the vehicle’s path, ESC applies selective braking and throttle input to guide the vehicle back on to the driver’s intended path
• Energy-absorbing steering column: The power-adjust steering column employs a calibrated bending element that deforms during column stroke for optimal energy management
• Enhanced Accident Response System (EARS): Makes it easier for emergency personnel to see and reach occupants in the event of an accident by turning on the interior lighting and unlocking doors after air bag deployment. Also shuts off flow of fuel to the engine
• Express Up/Down Windows: One-touch powered express up/down window button located on the front driver and passenger-side door
• Forward Collision Warning (FCW): Using forward-facing radar sensors, this system detects when the vehicle may be approaching another vehicle too rapidly and alerts the driver so the driver can determine what action must be taken in order to prevent the vehicle from a collision
• High-intensity discharge (HID) headlamps: Provide approximately three times the light output of conventional reflector lamps for improved nighttime illumination
• Hill-start Assist (HSA): Assists drivers when starting a vehicle from a stop on a hill by maintaining the level of brake pressure applied for a short period of time after a driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal. If throttle is not applied within a short period of time after the driver’s foot is removed from the brake pedal, brake pressure will be released
• Keyless Enter-N-Go: When an individual enters the vehicle, electronic sensors detect if the vehicle key fob is present. The vehicle will then allow the individual to push a button to start the vehicle without having to insert the key into the ignition
• Knee bolsters: The lower instrument panel and the glove-box door are designed to properly position the occupant during impact, enabling air bags to work effectively
• Navigation system: Voice-activated navigation system available with real-time traffic to provide precise guidance to destination through the use of global positioning system (GPS) satellite technology
• ParkSense® rear park assist system: Assists at low speeds in reverse to detect stationary objects. Consists of audible warnings for the driver and has a display in the Electronic Vehicle Information Center (EVIC) integrated into the instrument cluster
• ParkView® rear back-up camera: Provides a wide-angle view of the area immediately behind the vehicle, giving the driver greater peace of mind before reversing at low speeds. Contains grid line to aid the driver when maneuvering into parking spaces or narrow areas. Also aids in lining up a trailer to the vehicle’s trailer hitch, when so equipped. The image is displayed on the navigation screen when the transmission is shifted into Reverse
• Power tilt-and-telescoping steering column with memory: Allows steering column to tilt and move toward or away from the driver to achieve a safe and comfortable distance from the advanced multi-stage front driver air bag, if deployed
• Rain Brake Support: Uses the ESC pump to occasionally push brake pads lightly against brake rotors in rainy conditions in order to keep rotors dry
• Rain-sensing wipers: A driver convenience feature that automatically senses moisture on the windshield and activates wipers
• Ready Alert Braking: Anticipates situations when the driver may initiate an emergency brake stop and uses the ESC pump to set brake pads against rotors in order to decrease the time required for full brake application
• Rear Cross Path (RCP): In parking lot situations, this system warns drivers backing out of parking spaces of traffic moving toward their vehicle. It activates any time the vehicle is in Reverse. The driver is notified of vehicle(s) crossing behind the vehicle via illuminated icons on the sideview mirror and with a driver-selected audible chime
• Remote (fob) operated windows (front windows – down only): Enable an individual to cool down the vehicle passively by opening front windows remotely
• Remote keyless entry: Locks and unlocks doors and turns on interior lamps. If the vehicle is equipped with a security alarm, the remote also arms and disarms that system
• Remote start: Conveniently starts the engine and activates key comfort settings based on ambient conditions by using the key fob while maintaining vehicle security
• Rollover crash sensing: Senses a rollover and deploys seat belt pretensioners and/or standard full-length side-curtain air bags as needed
• Seat belt pretensioners: During a collision, impact sensors initiate front seat belt pretensioners to remove slack in the seat belt system, thereby reducing the forward movement of the occupant’s head and torso
• Sentry Key® engine Immobilizer: Utilizes an engine key that has an embedded transponder with a preprogrammed security code to discourage vehicle theft. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the controller sends a random number to the transponder and the engine is allowed to start. If an incorrect key is used, the engine will shut off after a few seconds
• Signal mirrors: Signal lamp built into the housing of exterior mirrors allows turn signals to be viewed from the front, as well as the sides and rear of the vehicle in order to alert oncoming traffic and pedestrians
• SmartBeam® headlamps: Headlamp system adjusts to ambient light and oncoming traffic to deliver maximum lighting
• Standard full-length side-curtain air bags: Extend protection to all outboard front- and rear-seat passengers. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. This type of air bag is housed in the headliner just above side windows
• Standard seat-mounted side thorax air bags: Provide enhanced protection to the
driver and front outboard passenger in certain impacts. Each side air bag has its own impact sensor that autonomously triggers the air bag on the side where an impact occurs. Standard side air bags are housed within the outboard side of each front seat
• Three-point seat belts: Front outboard seating positions and all rear seating positions have lap and shoulder belts
• Tire-pressure monitoring (TPM): Informs driver when tire pressure is too low. Pressure-sensor modules within the valve stems of all four road wheels send continuous radio-frequency signals to a receiver and the system
• Trailer-sway control (TSC): Reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions caused by crosswinds and traffic. The system monitors the vehicle’s movement relative to the driver’s intended path, then applies alternating brake pressure to slow the vehicle and then increases the pressure on one front wheel in order to counteract the sway induced by the trailer
• Uconnect® Phone: In-vehicle, voice-activated communication system that allows customers to talk on their Bluetooth compatible phone with your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. The built-in phonebook sync feature automatically downloads as many as 1,000 phone book entries from supported phones, which can then be selected by simply saying contact name

Connectivity and Infotainment
New for 2012 is the available 825-watt, 19-speaker premium SRT performance audio surround-sound system from Harman Kardon® that includes a 10-inch subwoofer for the ultimate in sound quality.

A wide variety of easy-to-use infotainment options are available with features that provide customers with seamless integration of consumer electronics, delivering drivers and passengers the conveniences of home and office.

Garmin Navigation and SIRIUS Travel Link are standard with the 430N AM/FM/CD/DVD radio. Also standard are a multitude of features including SIRIUS Satellite Radio and Uconnect Phone.

The available Vehicle Entertainment System (VES) includes a DVD player and rear seat overhead screen that deliver a variety of programming choices, with ports to connect games and media players with audio and video output capability, including iPod® connectivity. The Media Center or the VES remote can control multiple screen inputs and each screen can play something different.

Tips on keeping vehicles in long term

For some people the car is not just a transportation tool, but as a collection of the most loved. Even for those who frequently deal in foreign countries, they would have to leave the vehicle during the period of time in the garage.

If the vehicle was left switched on for a long time it can affect the performance of the vehicle or hard dihidupkan.ada several techniques to keep the car in a long time either within six months until many years without reducing performance.
The first step is to disconnect the car battery cables. It is to turn off the flow of vehicle batteries, if left too long the vehicle battery may be weak.

Fill the fuel tank if you keep the vehicle more than a year, it aims to solve the problem of vapor, water damage and the formation of rust. Before you store the vehicle, replace the engine oil and filter before

Instill a new engine oil to the cylinder to provide a protective layer to the cylinder berkenanan. You also need to drain all the air conditioning system to prevent corrosion that occurs in the region. It also prevents problems due to liquid cooling or contact with aluminum.

Do not drain the radiator coolant. If the cooling age is one and a half years old, replace with new ..
Fill brake oil. Change if it melebihidua years. Oil will damage the long metal kmponen.

To prevent damage to the vehicle shock absorbers, tual / hold all four wheels to merehatka wheels, bearings and other shock absorbers komponenpen

Kai blanket your car, do not forget the little mirror membuak memberikanruang windows to air out in. ..

Audi R8 GT

Audi of America established prices for the limited-production 2012 Audi R8 GT starting at $196,800 at the launch of sales in the U.S. market. The Audi R8 GT is the lightest, fastest and most powerful entry in the Audi supercar lineup, which has won global acclaim. Only 333 Audi R8 GT models will be produced worldwide, with 90 slated for U.S. buyers.

Audi R8 GT U.S. pricing starts at $196,800 as sales of limited-production sports car begin

• Only 333 Audi R8 GT models will be built worldwide; 90 for U.S sales
• Extensive use of carbon fiber parts makes the Audi R8 GT about 180 pounds lighter than the Audi R8 5.2 quattro coupe
• Modified 5.2-liter engine achieves 560 hp, 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds, top speed of 199 mph


2012 R8 GT pricing (excluding $1,250 destination charge, taxes, title, options and dealer charges):

R8 GT Coupe (R tronic) – $196,800

The 2012 R8 GT receives significant exterior modifications aimed at enhancing its already stellar handling, and it is powered by a modified 5.2-liter V10 FSI engine that produces 560 horsepower (35 hp more than the R8 Coupe 5.2 quattro and the R8 Spyder 5.2 quattro). The 2012 R8 GT employs the R tronic sequential manual transmission. This pairing produces a top track speed of 199 mph, and a 0-62 mph time of 3.6 seconds. Overall, the Audi R8 GT will provide drivers with high lateral acceleration and a low center of gravity.

The signature Audi ASF® lightweight construction of the Audi R8 GT, combined with extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber body parts reduces the weight by approximately 180 pounds when compared to the Audi R8 Coupe 5.2 quattro. Key carbon fiber components are the rear hatch, spoiler and diffuser.

The Audi R8 GT continues the heritage of mid-engine configuration with quattro® all-wheel drive that has distinguished all R8 variants. The axle load distribution of the R8 GT will be 43/57 front/rear. Integrated into the front differential is axle-load-optimized torque split with self-locking differential in the rear axle.

The newest member of the Audi sports car family was inspired by the Audi R8 LMS GT3 race car. To convey its limited-edition nature, the Audi R8 GT will come with a variety of exclusive interior and exterior touches. Each car will have a numbered gearshift knob. The instrument cluster will be white with the R8 GT logo and the interior will feature carbon matte inlays. The seats, headliner, steering wheel and handbrake lever will be black Alcantara® with contrast stitching. Door sills will include aluminum inserts with the R8 GT logo.

On the exterior, the grille, distinctive sideblade and other trim parts will come in exclusive matte finishes. The Audi R8 GT will also be available in an exclusive new color: Samoa Orange.

Optional carbon-fiber reinforced ceramic brakes are available to provide superb fading resistance even in racetrack conditions. Brake calipers with a red anodized finish come with the ceramic brakes. A 12-speaker, 495-watt Bang & Olufsen® sound system is also available. The Audi R8 GT offers other trim and wheel options to personalize the full array of standard features.

Audi A4

Stretching nearly five inches overall, more than two inches wider, and a six-inch-longer, the 2009 A4 is closing in on A6 dimensions (the wheelbase is 1.3 inches shorter). Being the largest in its class, nearly three inches longer than the C-Class and seven longer than the 3 Series sedan. With that increase in length and width and a minor reduction in height (making lower by less than 0.1 inch), the new model has a intergrated, sportier stance and holds the road with a new sense of confidence and enthusiasm.

Its new underpinnings are shared with the upcoming S5 and A5 coupes, and an A4 Avant will go on sale in the U.S. at the same time as the sedan. Like the A5/S5, the new A4 has sculpted lines, a more aggressive front end, and a row of LED daytime running lights underlining each headlamp. Thanks to the liberal use of ultra-high-strength steel, the body weighs 10 percent less than last year's, yet is more rigid. The side view is rather familiar-time will tell if this redesign was too conservative, especially compared with the aggressive lines of the new C-Class.


Audi A4 interior is completely redesigned, with high-quality materials and clean, attractive design continue to live up to Audi's stellar reputation. Black leather seats and matching black door panels contrasted nicely with patterned brushed aluminum accents. The redesigned center stack is easy to use, and MMI is now a part of the A4's layout -- we've heard it will be standard with the 3.2 (optional) optional. The cabin is larger in every dimension, front and rear seats are now more comfortable, and there's more rear-seat legroom than in the outgoing model. The trunk is bigger -- now 17.0 cubic feet, up from 13.4. Regardless, leather will be standard and should come in a choice of colors. Stereo options will include a choice of Bang & Olufsen stereo systems, including the excellent 14-speaker setup, plus a six-disc CD changer and iPod connectivity. In the cabin are more safety features: six airbags will be standard and rear-side airbags optional.

When the A4 goes on sale, it will initially be offered in quattro form only, with one engine and transmission –
a new 3.2-liter,
265-horsepower V-6 backed by a ZF six-speed automatic.

A second engine will follow -- expect an all-new 2.0T four and a manual and/or DSG with quattro as an option. The direct-injection V-6 uses Audi's two-stage valve-lift system, which makes more efficient use of the engine to improve fuel economy by six percent. The A4 gets to 62 mph in an estimated 6.2 seconds when backed by the manual, and the transmission's shifts are quick and easy to control with the steering-wheel-mounted paddles. And, through the reduced weight of the body, reduction in drag (down from a 0.31 Cd to approximately 0.29), and changes to the air conditioner (now 10 percent more powerful and the fuel consumption needed to run it has been reduced by 20 percent), fuel economy has improved.

straight-6 Engine

The straight-6 (also inline-6, I-6, or I6) is an internal combustion engine with six cylinders aligned in a single row. The name slant-6 is sometimes used when the cylinders are at an angle from the vertical.

Straight-6 engines have perfect primary and secondary balance and require no balance shaft.

Usually a straight-6 was used for engine displacements between about 2.5 and 4.0 L. Sometimes this configuration is used to make smaller engines which tend to be powerful and very smooth running, but also rather expensive to manufacture and physically longer than alternative layouts. The smallest production straight-6 was found in the Benelli 750 sei motorcycle, displacing 747.7 cc. The largest are used in tractor-trailer combinations and some low speed diesels in cargo and passenger ships. These engines have a displacement of 1000 L or more.

Straight-6 engines were historically more common than V6s, mainly because the length of such engines was not such a concern in rear wheel drive vehicles but also because V6s (unlike the crossplane V8) were somewhat difficult to make smooth-running. The widespread use of front-wheel-drive and transverse ("east-west") engine configurations in smaller cars saw that the shorter engine length of the V6 became highly desirable, and these days most six-cylinder engines are made in the V configuration.



Straight-6 engines in Europe

Volvo produced straight-6 engines used in the 960/S90 (RWD) series from 1992~1998. In the following model year, the same engine was further refined for transverse mounting and VVT in the front-wheel drive Volvo S80. A New 3.2-liter straight-6 was introduced for 2007 model years.

Audi has never offered straight-6 engines; until the mid-1990s, however, straight-5 gasoline engines were available for most models, some of them turbocharged.

Although Mercedes-Benz used to build many straight-6s both as gas and diesel engines, it has recently abandoned the layout and now only engineers V6 engines (they have retained the straight-6 layout for medium duty diesel applications such as the MBE 906).

BMW, on the other-hand, is one of the few remaining manufacturers to persist with the straight-6 configuration, making petrol and turbo-diesel engines ranging from 2.0 to 3.2 L in displacement (as of 2005). In 2006, they announced that the upcoming 335i model of their E92 3-series coupé will have a 3.0L twin-turbo straight-6, showing the company's continued dedication to the straight-6 engine configuration.

Opel has also used a straight-6 engine in the 1970s until the early 1990s, ranging between 2.5 and 4.0 L. They powered Opel's top of the line models, including the Monza, the Omega and the Commodore.

In 1959, Saab had an experimental car with two transverse straight-3 engines bolted together — the Saab Monster.


Straight-6 engines in Britain

The straight-6 was the archetypal British engine for sports and luxury cars for many years. Rolls-Royce used straight-6 engines until changes in their design made the shorter V8 layout more suitable.

Jaguar used them, from 1949 until the mid 1990s in form of the legendary twin-camshaft Jaguar XK6 engine, until, at Ford's insistence, they adopted a V8. Aston Martin used a straight-6 for many years, as did Austin-Healey in their Austin-Healey 3000. MG also used a straight-6 in their MGC.

Bristol produced a straight-6 until 1961, based on BMW plans, that was also used in many small manufacturers' cars.

The compact Triumph straight-6 powered their high-end saloon and sports cars from the mid 1950s to the mid 1970s.

British sports car company TVR has designed its own straight-6, known as the Speed Six, and now uses it exclusively in all of their models.

Land Rover used a 2.6L straight-6 from 1967 in certain series Land Rover models.


Straight-6 engines in the United States

Engines of this type were popular before World War II in mid-range cars. Most manufacturers started building straight-6 engines when cars grew too large for the straight-4.

After the war, larger cars required larger engines, and the straight-6 became the base engine model used on economy cars only. The vast majority of American cars during this period had V8s.

The Chrysler Corporation had noteworthy slant-6 engines, used in the Plymouth Valiant and Dodge Dart A-body models of the 1960s and 1970s.

Another significant straight-6 engine family was introduced by American Motors (AMC) in 1964. These engines were used in a variety of AMC passenger and Jeep utility vehicles. They were also assembled and marketed internationally. Some markets (such as Mexico) built their own specialized versions of this engine. American Motors' straight-6 engine received a number of modifications and was produced continuously (even after Chrysler's buyout of AMC) for 42 years.

When cars began to get smaller again in the 1970s, the trend was towards the greater compactness enabled by the V6 layout, and straight-6 engines became rare in American cars except for trucks and vans. Jeeps were an exception to the rule, getting AMC's straight-6 as the base engine option in 1972. These engines continued receive upgrades with an advanced for its time, high-performance 4.0 L option in 1987. Usage of the AMC 4.0 has been declining in Jeep vehicles since the 2002 replacement of the Jeep Cherokee with the Liberty, which features the Chrysler 3.7 L V6 instead. It has declined further since the 2005 introduction of the third generation Jeep Grand Cherokee, which also uses the 3.7 L V6. The last application of the 4.0 was in the 2006 Jeep Wrangler; for 2007 the engine has been replaced with a 3.8 L V6.

Ford used a straight-6 in baseline Mustangs and in its other models for many decades. They were also found in F150 pickups until 1997 when they were replaced with a V6.

In 2001 General Motors introduced a new family of straight engines, the Atlas, for use in the newly-introduced Chevrolet TrailBlazer/GMC Envoy. The straight-6 was chosen for development because of the desirable operating characteristics of its self balanced design.

As far as passenger vehicles are concerned, straight-6 engines might be making a comeback in some larger vehicle types such as trucks and SUVs. Examples include the 5.9 L Cummins Turbo Diesel engine used in Dodge Rams and GM's 4.2L "Vortec 4200". Many big rig trucks also use straight six diesels.


Straight-6 engines in Asia

The Japanese have used the straight-6 with great success since the 1960s in a wide range of applications, from passenger vehicles, to sports cars, to SUV's. Both Datsun and Toyota were among the first in this trend, though Prince Motors (later acquired by Datsun) and others offered straight-6s in that time too.

Toyota started with their M-series engine and later the F, FZ, G, and JZ engines, and Datsun started with their H-series and later the L as well as the famous RB series (used in the Nissan Skyline up until the 'R34' model) engines. Honda built the Honda CBX motorcycle from 1978 till 1981. In 1990's Toyota offered representatives of all 5 families in their vehicles: the G in the Altezza (and others); the M and its replacement, the JZ, in the Toyota Supra (and others); and the F and its replacement, the FZ, in the Land Cruiser. In the 2000's, Toyota's still offers the FZ-series, G-series and the JZ-series engines.

In Korea, GM Daewoo's Magnus (sold abroad as the Chevrolet Evanda, Chevrolet Epica or Suzuki Verona) comes with a Daewoo-designed straight-6.


Straight-6 engines in Australia

Historically, all three manufacturers in Australia used straight-6s. Chrysler had built the Slant 6 in Australia and the unique to Australia Hemi straight-6. These engines were used in the Chrysler Valiant and the Valiant Charger producing up to 320hp. Chrysler no longer owns any factories in Australia.

Holden built 161, 186 and 202in³ straight-6s from 1968-1984. They were used in the Kingswood, Torana and in the early Commodores. Modern Commodores use V6s.

Ford Australia has been producing straight-6s since 1960 and is the only manufacturer in Australia to still build them. Ford has built 144, 200, 240 and 250in³ engines, with the 240 being called the 3.9l or 4.0l and the 200 being called the 3.3l. They have been used since 1960 in the Falcon, 1970-1982 in the Cortina and from 2004 in the Ford Territory. The current straight-6 engines in the Falcon and Territory are called the Barra.

The high-performance division of Ford Australia, Ford Performance Vehicles, produce vehicles equipped with the 4.0 litre DOHC 24-valve turbocharged straight-6 with variable cam timing, which produces 270 kW (362 hp) @ 5250 rpm and 550Nm (406 ft•lbf) @ 2000 - 4250 rpm — the highest level of torque in any Australian production car to date.


Diesel straight-6 engines

The straight-6 in diesel form with a much larger displacement is commonly used for various industrial applications. These range from various types of heavy equipment to power generation to transit buses or coaches. As with everyday passenger vehicles, the smooth running characteristics of the straight-6 engine is what makes it desirable for industrial use. In addition, a straight-6 engine is mechanically simpler than a V6 or V8. It has only one cylinder head and half as many camshafts as a V engine.

Audi R8 thats power baby

The Audi R8's well proportioned design screams speed. The R8's leather-clad cockpit is spacious and well appointed. Even the R8's manual six-speed gear shifter is elegant. The European Audi R8 will also be the first production vehicle to feature all-LED headlights. The Audi R8 also features an optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

2008 Audi R8
Type:
Mid-engine, all-wheel drive sports coupe

Retail price:
$109,000-$134,750

Engine:
4.2-liter V-8, 420-horsepower, 317-pound-feet torque

Transmission:
6-speed manual or automatic

EPA mileage
# Manual: 13 mpg city / 20 mpg highway
# Automatic: 13 city / 19 highway


Report card

Exterior: Excellent.
Smooth, sleek and bullet like. Its wide stance and deceptively long body add to its intimidating exterior.

Interior: Excellent.
The seats hold you firmly in even the tightest of corners.

Safety: Excellent.
Front, knee and side air bags. Precise handling, stability control and anti-lock brakes.

Performance: Unbelievable.
Fast and furious.

Pros: Beautiful and beastly:
Will be noticed everywhere you go. Other super sports cars are often considerably more.

Cons:
Don't drive it to any Green Peace meetings. Powerful engine means more fuel consumption.