00
magnum opus!
BenTley’s all-new Flagship saloon Brings Back The mulsanne name
ToyoTa sequoia has some good news: now iT comes wiTh awd
F1: Thrills and spills in monTreal, Valencia and silVersTone
Tyres
special Focus:
all you need To
know aBouT
T yres
co-ordinAtor Now, the figures seem to be communicating a rebound in their business, largely driven
Pratibha n Kadam pratibha@alroya.net by sales to the non-traditional markets of the BRIC countries, but also riding on the
deSiGn relative stability of the Middle East for the large-engined cars and SUVs that almost no
Sawsan Al Muharbi sawsan@alroya.info one else wants.
heAd of MArKetinG
Maged Aziz maged@alroya.net The countdown is well and truly on for a return to the capitalistic nature of the industry,
with the US taxpayer’s money that was transiently applied to stop the bleeding of
MArKetinG General Motors and Chrysler Corporation set to be returned to the government. The
Shruti Mehta shruti@alroya.net
Supreme Philips philips@alroya.net impending IPO of General Motors should generate a lot of interest since the company
has been well and truly reformed. In the Chrysler case, new manufacturing practices
circULAtion introduced by FIAT have ensured that the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is built to a
books@alroya.net
standard that is well and truly above the Chrysler norm.
finAnce & AdMin
Abraham daniel daniel@alroya.net In the meantime, we at Automan have been changing as well in this, our 10th year. We
Printer have introduced new sections and beefed up our long term favourites, while investing
ruwi Modern Printers LLc in editorial excellence with the infusion of new talent. All good portents for the
tel: +968 2479 4167, 2479 8157 forthcoming sales season of Ramadan 2010.
fax: +968 2470 0545
S
© 2010
{SPECIAL FEATURE ON TYRES}
FOCUS ON TYRE
All editorial content of Automan in the magazine and
its website is copyrighted and may not be reproduced its working life. Unlike colder climates, where
the life span of a tyre is higher, the hot Middle
East region poses extra challenges for any
and sidewalls from flexing. Friction from this
flexing generates heat, and that degrades the
rubber and the fabric construction of the tyre.
sidewall plies, it’s time to change that tyre.
5. Physical damage
Any foreign object that penetrates the tyre far
fusing jargon you might hear from a salesmen
or “experts” might make your purchase rather
stressful. Despite what appears to be a tough
Meanwhile, we help you understand the
various bits related in helping understanding
the tyres a bit better.
tion, proper wheel alignment and other vari
able factors. In other words, don’t think that
a tread-wear rating of 100 means a 30,000
tyre maker in a situation where tyres are And don’t be fooled by the appearance of the enough to cause a leak is sufficient reason to scenario, you have often wondered what do So, let’s begin with the important stuff: mile tyre.
57
Exposure to ozone, road chemicals and
tyre specification for your vehicle, or to have with a rating of 100. Tread-wear grades typi typi- some Honda SUVs, the tyres that are stamped
of a four-digit number, stating the month and
year the tyre was produced. Unfortunately, ultraviolet light accelerate degradation of a combination of different tyre construction cally range between 60 and 600 in 20-point in- with ‘DZ’ have a lower rolling resistance tread
there’s no equivalent to an expiration date. rubber. But this is probably more of a problem types. Always consult your vehicle handbook, crements. It is important to consider that this pattern than those that aren’t.
<< Ozone and UV rays can have adverse Manufacturers or brand name, and commer-
material. once published, the copyright for any such R = for type of construction, in this case the
tyre is radial
The number 50 here describes the aspect
ratio. This mark represents the height of the
tyre sidewall as a percentage of the nominal
inG 70 71
‘Tubeless’ designates a tyre which requires no
inner tube.
V93 is the speed symbol indicating the maxi
mum speed for the tyre at full load. In this case
it denotes a speed capability not exceeding
240km/h
74
in this issue 107
k
10
TESTEd {Road Test {Road Test}
pREg vthiE
{Preview
w {Preview
Uppin e 48 T
he luxury sales race is tightening as the
German premium trio of Audi, BMW, and
Mercedes-Benz are fighting it out for
top honours. And despite the global economic
downturn, all three brands posted increased
year-to-year sales (over 2009): Audi climbed
NEwS 4
entry level From across the region and
19.1 per cent, Mercedes soared 15.2 per cent,
and BMW gained 14.1 per cent. Audi’s stellar
performance was prompted, in part, by strong
demand in China which has overtaken Germa
ny as the brand’s most important market.
target
Now, Audi is looking at producing premium
cars in the B-segment as part of its horizontal
expansion in the line-up. And the carmaker
68
Germany.
Well, we all know BMW with MINI, Fiat with
the 500 have been quite successful in the seg
ment with these premium offerings. In fact,
BMW’s reincarnated MINI was the first ac
knowledged model to be able to offer premi
um quality, performance variants and bespoke
bRaNdwaTCh
features – some of the key reasons for its suc
10
cess with young urban customers. And it is
this segment of active prospects that Audi is
keen to tap with the A1, a vehicle that is spe
cifically designed for the urban environment.
The A1 has been engineered to be very agile
and nimble in city traffic while offering a high
degree of everyday utility. And at the same
time it does meet the lifestyle aspirations with
the sporting S-line trims.
up right where the last generation left off and Audi is introducing a whole new dimension to the compact class them into series production, on no account
the A1 is a re-bodied Polo with Audi frills. The
the folding hardtop offers the best of coupe and with the all-new Audi A1 and this car will also grace the Middle front end bears an unmistakable family re
semblance, but features unique accents and
roadster forms. Automan checks out the roadster East. Automan has the first details of what’s coming soon. detailing. The single-frame grille, for example,
is harmoniously integrated into the front end
SpECial REpORT 11
and with its angled top corners represents
and finds out the real reasons for people buying it. a new evolutionary stage. Its braces are ar
ranged horizontally to emphasize the width of
TESTEd TESTEd
52 53
64 65
44 24 BMW 1 Coupe
{Road Test}
{Road Test {Road Test}
L H
et
ess than a decade ago, full-size SUVs However, front and rear overhangs appear dominant grey-coloured interior. The steering onda in general is generally a consid- traced directly to the 1992 Honda NSX Type R,
sold in significant numbers and gener-
gener marginally reduced in the AWD version due column offers both tilt and telescopic functions ered a conservative carmaker that con- which featured a lightweight chassis, stiffened
o ck
ated handsome profits for their manu-
manu to its extended capabilities. Despite its over- and individual settings can be put in memory. sistently cranks out modestly refined body, fine tuned engine and upgraded perfor-
facturers. Although most of the models built whelming dimensions and physical presence [See box below for specific trim details] cars. Besides its attempt to produce neo-lux- mance brakes.
then evolved from pick-up trucks, so it was the car achieves an impressive drag coeffi- Two powertrains are now available -- a ury cars and charge premium pricing, it oc- Honda Civic Type- R is a high-performance
k et R
only a question of time before a manufacturer cient of 0.35, which means the vehicle offers 276hp 4.7-litre V8 which powers the SR5 and casionally produces a wicked little something version of Civic introduced in 1997. It is cur-
jumped on to the bandwagon with something exceptional aerodynamic characteristics and Limited grades, while the top of line Plati- that sneaks through the cracks and reminds rently in its third generation and comes with
bit more polished in a segment that was large
large- low wind-noise. The vehicle’s mirrors, wipers, num grade [our test vehicle] had the 5.7-litre us that it can also offer a little spice too. two distinct varieties – One for European and
ly driven by American models such Chevrolet‘s A-pillar and roof header are also shaped to V8 engine. Both engines are mated to six- As a self-confessed Honda aficionado, at one for Japanese, domestic market. The Mid-
Po c
Tahoe, Ford‘s Expedition and GMC‘s Yukon. maximize aerodynamic efficiency and minimize speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic times, I personally feel that Honda has split dle East gets the European version. The Civic
Toyota entered the fray with the US-only Se- wind noise. The car’s underside has also been function. The bigger displacement engine is personality, very similar to Japanese compa- Type R has earned itself a cult following in
quoia in 2000, although the Land Cruiser, its optimized to reduce drag and wind noise, and ULEV-II compliant, meaning it emits very little triot Subaru. Subaru’s claim to fame comes Europe.
COvER STORY
other SUV-pick up nameplate has been around to help improve directional stability. pollution (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle). It is through its boxer-engined all-wheel-drive rally As a spiritual successor to the previous
14
since 1955 in global markets. The country spe- While the primary design goal for the in- modern in design and features four valves per race cars, whereas Honda combines a strong generation that was retired from active duty
cific USA- built and truck based Sequoia differs terior seems to revolve around taking full cylinder and variable valve timing on both in- racing heritage with a reputation for more in 2007, it seems the development focus has
from the premium global Land Cruiser in that advantage of spacious cabin and converting take and exhaust valves. Consistent with the mundane mainstream models. revolved around bold and emotional styling
it is larger and its focus is more on heavy duty it in to a practical and user-friendly environ- architecture is the exhaust, which is made But all this is changing gradually, and if teamed up with a further development of the
jobs such as towing. ment for the driver and occupants, hence the from stainless steel and has four catalytic con- one follows Honda through the recent motor previous Type R’s race proven and high-rev-
While, the Land Cruiser is a more upscale element of premium luxury such as bespoke verters and with this package 381hp and 401 shows – New Delhi, Detroit, Geneva, Beijing ving powertrain.
and luxurious with good off-road capability is wood trims, special effects, mood lighting are lb-ft of torque is available. among others – Honda has certainly been The Civic Type R is offered only as a three
built in Japan and some other locations, the missing. But what is not missing is a cosy in- Being a large vehicle, Sequoia engineers making noises with impressive concepts and door hatch in the UK, so it uses a different
second generation Sequoia is built at Toyota’s terior which takes full advantage of the car’s specifically focused on improved ride com- ideas what its thinks future motoring could chassis and mechanical components in its sus-
FiRST dRivE
Toyota designers haven’t tampered with the pressed with the way the access to third row Safety System. This means the car includes and Europe vying for consumer attention. cial character of the Civic Type R is highlighted
24
design of the second generation Tundra, on seats has been designed. An easy-slide action includes VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), and There’s a bonus also attached to the equa- by well drawn-down body coloured front and
which the Sequoia is based. Not only did it get allows access to the third-row seat which also TRAC (Traction Control) (2WD models) or A- tion if you follow how this segment is shaping rear skirts, a rear spoiler plus a radiator grille
up. Till now, the market for performance ori- with enlarged air intake.
Toyota’s largest SUV to date, the Sequoia was completely most of the design DNA, it also gets own set
of clothing. So it’s no coincidence that from
splits 60:40 and folds flat. Since the car will
mostly be used by families, thoughtful fea-
TRAC (Active-Traction Control) (4WD models),
ABS (antilock braking) with EBD (electronic ented small hatchbacks has been small with The rear is signed off with a bumper that
redesigned and re-engineered for 2008. For 2010, it gets the front both look very similar too, but unlike
other rival SUV models in the past which had
tures include jam protection for the front and
rear windows. Meanwhile, the power lift gate
brake force distribution) and Brake Assist. If
this doesn’t satisfy the appetite, then there’s
the exception of Volkswagen’s all-time GTI,
Seat’s Leon FR and Cupra models, and Re-
features a built in diffuser and completing the
aero package with a huge rear wing.
significant improvements and upgrades including AWD. Automan similar arrangements, the Sequoia doesn’t
look like a cut and paste job.
can be open or closed via remote control. collision driver and passenger seat-mounted
side- and side- curtain airbags as as standard
nault’s Clio sport models.
From Honda’s perspective, the Civic Type R
Despite being built in the UK, the build qual-
ity, tolerances and materials of this three door
checks out the refreshed version Meanwhile, there are no changes to the Driver gets a simplified dashboard with a equipment and roll-sensing side curtain air- is the highest performance spec of the Civic car are top notch Honda standards and the
in Oman. Automan discovers its true genes gen performance models also end up in circuit
competitionas high performance derivatives
tion is low, the outward visibility is good and
getting in and out of the car is facilitated
and in the case of Honda, the lineage can be through the extra wide doors. However, due
40 41
hatch
COvER STORY
24 25
14
{also driven}
Brand and model perspective assisted steering system. Key changes to the
Fusion on the safety front include front seat
{also driven}
{also driven}
L
{also
15 driven}
mOTORSpORTS 74
rear-wheel drive GS was introduced in 1993
Ford’s CD3 platform [which also spawned the Choice of models for US, Europe and selected markets in Asia.
Mazda 6] in October 2005 as a 2006 model
was widely considered as a befitting replace-
replace Till date, three generations of the GS have
64 36
The Fusion is offered in S, SE and SEL trim been produced and the GS 300 continues to
ment for the then temporarily discontinued levels. Front-wheel drive is standard on four-
Taurus. With its spacious cabin, responsive serve in the region with a host of technolo-
cylinder, while all-wheel drive is standard on
driving dynamics and attractive styling made the V6-powered SEL [not sold in the region].
gy-led solutions and improvements. The cur-
it very competitive, but there were a few miss- rent model was introduced in 2006 and was
actually the first to adopt the brand’s highly
ing elements that prevented it from being a Interiors
true segment leader. Meanwhile, the Taurus stylized L-finesse design language and is built
F1 & WRC
badge has been revived, so appropriately for The interior redesign is evolutionary, not on a newly-designed midsize platform which
the model series the Fusion for 2010 has been revolutionary and the general shape and ar- is also used on the second generation IS.
extensively revisited and given a new lease of rangement of the dash is very familiar while Since it is an advanced platform it continues
life. the central console seems to be button happy. unchanged for 2010. And as before, the car
The cabin sports a more contemporary theme retains its 112.2in long wheelbase, long bon-
What’s new? with technical flair with metallic new finishes net, pulled-back cabin and short rear profile.
on the instrument panel that carry through on It’s tapered, vertical grille surrounded by four
Although, the 2010 Fusion uses a carryover the centre console, doors and steering wheel. wraparound but independent headlamps, typ-
platform from the 2009 model [originally de- The all new instrument panel is finished with ical of the current GS models but interestingly
ChiCaNE
veloped for the Mazda 6 and modified for the soft touch plastics and the instrument panel conveys the brand’s design progression. The
Fusion], hence it is not surprising that much displays and switches have also been updated lower valance features integrated fog lamps,
of the sheetmetal between the A- and C-pil- with a contemporary iced blue lighting. All key and with its raked A-pillars and overall wedge
lars continues unchanged. However, the front driver touch points have been improved. profile commands an impressive and low Cd
and rear of the refreshed Fusion do receive The seats feel more body hugging than be- 0.27 drag coefficient.
design
vehicles. Meanwhile, the interior has been up- upholstery, dual-zone climate control and leather with Red Walnut wood trim.
graded with a more modern design featuring heated seats. However, it’s the ergonomic and As befitting the status of the brand, Lexus
Ford’s latest entertainment and climate con- aesthetic improvements over its predeces- designers strive to keep controls simple and
trols. The Duratec in-line four-cylinder engine sor which are now among the key highlights intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. The
August
Automan discovers how the 2010 Ford Fusion marks a turning has also been upgraded to displace 2.5-litres
and now produces 175hp. Like its US-only
besides the upgraded stereos, a navigation
system and the Sync electronics interface
SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start
ignition allow the driver to keep the access
point for Ford bigger 3.0-litre V6 which offers 240hp, both
get six-speed automatic transmission.
system. The Sync system does a fine job in
integrating audio and Bluetooth functionality
The Lexus GS 300 continues to delivers an undiluted fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-
control systems are easy to understand and
Meanwhile, the suspension has also been
tweaked. The front stay bar and rear suspen-
with voice-recognition technology to provide
easy hands-free operation of cell phones and
combination of luxury and sporty performance. As always operate. The unique instrument panel lighting
system relies on variable-transparency glass
sion link geometry have been revised to im-
prove steering, handling, and ride. The sus-
portable MP3 players. While the Fusion isn’t
the largest car in its class, a pair of adults will
several important technology enhancements keeps the GS to minimize reflections from the dials and to
1 .......................................................
help optimize visibility in all lighting condi-
pension springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars
have also been re-tuned to take full advan-
be content in rear with adequate head and
legroom.
among the top models in the segment for 2010. tions.
Sun
2 .......................................................
What we also like is the memory function
tage of the revised geometry and new power | Author: Chandan B Mallik | Images: Sakeel Al Baloushi
settings for individual drivers. There’s a pop-
Mon
3 .......................................................
pOSTER
56 57
60 61 Tue
Wed 4 .......................................................
Thu 5 ..............
.........................................
...........................
Fri 6 ............................
Sat 7 ..............
.........................................
ivE
Sun 8 ..............
.........................................
ExClUS 40 SpOTlighT
Mon 9 ..............
.........................................
Tue 10 ..............
.........................................
Wed 11 ..............
.........................................
Thu 12 ..............
.........................................
...........................
Fri 13 ............................
52
.........................................
{special feature} {special feature}
feature
Sat 14 ..............
{ } {Interview}
Tue 17 ..............
.........................................
Mercedes-AMG is readying an all-electric SLS for production within
Wed 18 ..............
.........................................
four years and so is Audi with the R8 e-tron. And strong indicators
suggest Toyota joining the elite group with the LF-A. Should start
Thu 19 ..............
.........................................
up companies such as Tesla or Fisker be worried? Automan ...........................
examines the possibilities. Fri 20 ............................
Sat 21 ..............
.........................................
Sun 22 ..............
.........................................
Mon 23 ..............
.........................................
Tue 24 ..............
.........................................
Wed 25 ..............
.........................................
Thu 26 ..............
.........................................
...........................
Fri 27 ............................
Sat 28 .............. .........................................
Lamborghini design concepts appear to have taken strong hold
Sun 29 .............. .........................................
of all the current and young designers’ minds and Adam Denning
is no exception. Automan spoke with the budding designer to Mon 30 ..............
.........................................
understand the philosophy behind the Lamborghini Navarra
Tue 31 ..............
.........................................
Concept
...........................
Notes ............................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............
..........................................
.............. .............
............................
2010
108 | August
1
Jaguar XJ 201
{news}
RENaUlT REplaCES mEgaNE wiTh all-NEw FlUENCE iN OmaN
S uhail Bahwan Automobiles, the sole im-
porters of Renault cars in Oman introduced
the all-new 2011 Fluence last month. The Flu-
the French manufacturer’s plans to expand its
market share within the small and mid-size
passenger car segments. In June, the San-
is due in September and a refreshed Safrane
will arrive in November. Close to home, sales
figures for Renault vehicles in Oman leapt
ence is the replacement of the outgoing Me- dero, its entry level model made its regional by 200 per cent in 2009 over 2008, and an
gane and was first revealed in August 2009.
Mechanically based on the flexible Renault/
Nissan C platform, it has been positioned be-
tween the compact family saloon C-segment
and the upper-medium segment in the brand’s
line-up. The Fluence can also be considered as
a stylish notchback version of the Mégane III,
which was developed as Renault Samsung’s
new SM3 in Korea and has been on sale since
November 2009.
The car for this market is offered with a host
of advanced features including a 1.6-litre 16V
110bhp engine mated to an automatic X-Tron-
ic CVT gearbox, ABS with emergency brake
assist (EBA), electronic stability control (ESC),
up to six airbags, five three-point seatbelts
with pre-tensioners and load limiters, cruise
control, and speed limiter. The Fluence is built
at the Oyak-Renault plant in Bursa, Turkey.
Renault GCC has a busy schedule ahead
with an impressive array of new model intro-
ductions across the region by the end of this appearance followed by the launch of the Flu- astounding 225 per cent between the first-
year. The back to back launches are in line with ence this month. The new Megane hatchback halves of 2009 and 2010.
l-r: Hidetoshi Kobayashi, Tsuyoshi Nakai, Yasushi Nagae and Hiroyuki Karamatsu from Fuji Heavy Industries, Japan with Sheikh Saad Suhail Bahwan, V R Dilip and Anupam Singh of OTE Group, Subaru
4
{news}
all-NEw JagUaR xJ aRRivES iN OmaN
J aguar announced the arrival of the all-new
XJ at its exclusive Oman importer – Mohsin
Haider Darwish LLC last month. Sporting a new
with bespoke options and a choice of four
specification levels– Luxury, Premium Luxury,
Portfolio and Supersport and prices will range
of the all-new XJ is a landmark for the revita-
lised Jaguar brand. Clearly positioned as the
company’s four-door flagship, it extends the
design language and some unique features from RO39,500 to RO 49,500.“ Building on the appeal of the XJ to a new generation of cus-
such as panoramic glass roof [standard on all success of the new XK and XF models glob- tomers,” said Hannah Naji, marketing director
models] and plasma instrumentation, the all- ally and in the Middle East, the introduction of Jaguar Land Rover MENA region.
new Jaguar XJ brings a daring new spirit to
automotive luxury. “The arrival of the all new
XJ is a momentous occasion for the Jaguar
brand in Oman. This stunning new product
will definitely impress our existing Jaguar cus-
tomers and also bring a new set of customers
into our showrooms. We are hoping to capital-
ize on this advantage to increase our market
share significantly,” said David Aziz, director
automotive at MHD LLC.
The new Jaguar XJ will offers the choice of
four powerful and refined engines, which use
the latest powertrain technology to deliver
an outstanding combination of performance
and class-leading efficiency. The top end cars
get the supercharged 510hp 5.0-litre AJ-V8
Gen III engine which will sprint the car from
0-100km/h in 4.9sec, while two milder en-
gines, a 470hp supercharged and 385hp nat-
urally aspirated petrol V8s are also available.
The new model will be offered to customers
5
{news}
bUgaTTi aNNOUNCES vEYRON SUpER SpORT
6
{news}
2011 hYUNdai ElaNTRa gOES UpSCalE GM plans to file for ipo
Although no official announcement has
been made, there are extra strong rumours
in the US about General Motors Co GM.UL
plans to file its registration for an initial pub-
lic offering during the week of August 16.
The timing has been chosen to be after the
expected date for its second quarter result
announcement. A GM filing with the US Se-
curities and Exchange Commission would
be the first step toward an IPO to reduce
the US government’s ownership in the auto-
maker after a $50 billion bailout in 2009. By
filing with the SEC in August, GM is aiming
7
{news}
SUZUki RElEaSES pEUgEOT 308 CC STOpS mUSCaT TRaFFiC
mORE dETailS OF
all-NEw SwiFT
T he spiritual successor to French automak-
er Peugeot’s open-top car heritage and
the latest addition to 206 CC, 307 CC and 207
seat structure which offers both generous leg
room to the rear occupants and provides a
good amount of space. The car is powered
CC family for Oman is the 308 CC. Peugeot, by a forced-fed 1.6-litre turbocharged direct
arguably is world leader in coupé-cabriolet injection four cylinder petrol engine offering
body styled cars and has produced close to 150bhp via six-speed manual or automatic
700,000 s of 2+2s in both ‘B’ and ‘M1’ seg- gearbox. The car is offered in Sport, SE and
ments worldwide. GT models and priced from RO 10,595 and is
It may be recalled that Peugeot has been available at Zubair Automotive Group.
a continuous pioneer in the segment of “fold-
ing roof cars” since 1930, with notable models
such as the 401, 601 and 402 “Eclipse”. De-
spite engineering challenges Peugeot has nev-
er lost its desire to give motorists the freedom
8
{news}
FORd’S NEw 2011 ExplORER will FOCUS ON EFFiCiENCY
I t’s no secret that Ford’s body-on-frame Ex-
plorer SUV not only had an enviable career,
but also served as a halo model in the seg-
237hp 2.0-litre turbocharged with ECO boost
to 290hp 3.7-litre V6 engines and the V8 will
be dropped. Both engines will be mated to
wheel-drive system.
The Explorer has some new safety features,
including inflatable seat belts in the back seat
ment for the brand, much like the Mustang in six-speed automatic transmissions. The XLT that help protect occupants’ heads and chests
the sports car segment. But that’s not good and Limited trim levels will feature a shifter- in a crash. A curve control system helps keep
enough anymore as buying trends have shift- mounted +/- toggle switch for manual-style the car on track when the driver goes too fast
ed towards highly efficient and sporty cross- gearshifts. The V6 Explorers can be equipped into a tight curve. And its MyFordTouch dash-
overs. As expected Ford will continue with the with electronic terrain management control board system allows drivers to change the
Explorer badge, but has recreated and repack- systems offering snow, sand, mud and nor- temperature, make calls and hear text mes-
aged it for 2011 and onwards. Just like rival mal modes besides hill descent mode for low- sages using voice commands.
Jeep which has recently introduced the all- speed off road manoeuvres. The fully
new Grand Cherokee, Ford has solid reasons independent suspension
to be optimistic with its 2011 Explorer. will come with road-
Last month, Ford simultaneously unveiled oriented bias and
the Explorer at a number of media events Ford will offer
around the US and Canada. Since the focus is its “intel-
on efficiency, no department has been spared. ligent”
The all-new Explorer will now rides on a light- four-
weight but proven unibody platform derived
from the automaker’s D3 platform which was
originally designed by Volvo. Substantially up-
dated since it first debuted in 2005, it now
underpins the Taurus, Flex, Lincoln MKS and
Volvo XC90. With a length of 197.1in and a
width of 90.2in including the exterior mirrors,
the 2011 Explorer is larger than the outgo-
ing model and just three inches shorter than
a GMC Acadia.
Powertrains will range from Europe-sourced
9
{Brandwatch}
JagUaR FUTURE
plaNS REvEalEd!
Should all go according to plan, then we can expect an
array of new models, including a bmw 3 Series fighter
coming from Jaguar in the coming years.
| Author: Chandan B Mallik
10
{news}
CadillaC posts iMpressiVe Gains
in Middle east
In the first half of 2010, sales of GM’s pre-
mium brand grew 29 per cent over the same
period in 2009, for a total of 1,617 units. This
rate of increase in regional sales of Cadillac
vehicles has outpaced the regional industry
estimates. In Saudi Arabia, the region’s larg-
est market, Cadillac sales in the first half of
2010 increased by 52 per cent over the same
period last year, the UAE grew by 27 per cent,
Kuwait went up by 30 per cent and Lebanon
grew by 56 per cent. First half 2010 Cadillac
unit sales in the region’s three largest markets
were 560 in Saudi Arabia, followed by 356 in
the UAE and 304 in Kuwait.
11
{news}
12
new original fragrance for men
Hollywood
Vegas
MiaMi
Malibu
At lAst Bentley
returns home
14
{cover story}
15
{cover story}
16
{cover story}
I
n the history of Crewe, UK-based Bentley an option. The long bonnet, short front over- entry system are cleverly embedded in the
Motors, the return of the Mulsanne badge hang and long rear overhang give the car a door handles. The car uses labour intensive
for its all-new production model is more limousine-like profile and elegant proportions methods for construction and each car takes
than just an emotional comeback. In an un- through soft creaselines which interplay with 400-man hours to build, which is about 15 per
certain business climate where many auto- light to give a long and low silhoutte. cent longer than that of the Arnage.
makers are struggling to keep tradition alive, Physically, the car is really large with an The cabin welcomes it occupants with a
some forward thinking at Bentley Motors has overall length and width just shy of 220in and full dose of traditional craftsmanship. It takes
virtually re-written an illustrious chapter in 76in, respectively. Compared to the Arnage, over 170 hours to assemble these individual
the top end of performance luxury motoring. the Mulsanne’s wheelbase is nearly seven components, be it leather upholstery or Bent-
What is remarkable is the fact the Volkswagen inches longer at 128.6in and in overall length ley’s trademark metal bullseye air vents and
owned premium luxury marque has proven by 18in. We think the influence of emerging their accompanying ‘organ stop’ regulators. I
to the motoring world that it is still possible markets such as China where generous rear remember vividly in the Arnage, the regula-
to continue with the spirit of its remarkable accommodation is a strong consideration, has tors were attached to vanes that governed the
history and heritage history without running been a key deciding factor in these new di- vents, but in the Mulsanne it’s not like that.
the risk of finding itself nowhere, if the vari- mensions. While, overall height is up a frac- Since the car gets the quad-zone HVAC sys-
ous bits in the equation were sensibly put into tion to 59.88in and despite being loaded with tem from the A8, the air control is done via
action. an array of features, thanks to the use of electronic switches. It’s commendable the way
The name Mulsanne wasn’t coined after lightweight construction materials such as alu- the previous mechanism’s feel has been suc-
some Mediterranean archipelago. Actually, it’s minium and resin composites, the Mulsanne cessfully replicated.
christened after a legendary straightaway on stands healthy at 2,590kg, which is more or Meanwhile, the broad swath of veneer or
Le Mans’ Circuit De La Sarthe, which Bent- less about the same as the outgoing Arnage. the ‘waistrail’ in Bentley-speak that forms an
ley think was most appropriate in represent- Before we move any further, however, it is to unbroken ring of wood around the occupants
ing the company’s aspirations for this model. be understood that according to Bentley that in our test car was finished in a gorgeous pia-
During the product presentation in Scotland, the Mulsanne isn’t the direct replacement of no black. Bentley says more traditional choices
Bentley executives repeatedly highlighted the the Arnage, although the outgoing model se- are available, including nine different veneers
fact that the new Mulsanne was an authen- ries represented the same slot in the hierar- and beyond that, there are over 100 paint fin-
tic and timeless modern classic – and 100 per chy. ishes, 24 leathers, 21 shades of carpet and
cent faithful to Bentley heritage. Now, this is At the beginning of the Mulsanne project 23 shades of seatbelt webbing complete with
an interesting argument, considering the fact in 2007, the outgoing Arnage chassis was colour-matched buckles!
that in the current environment of car mak- also considered as a possible carry over, but As this car is intended for both owner and
ing, the rather lengthy model lifecycles that shelved as it couldn’t meet the new dimen- driver to enjoy, nevertheless, both get a com-
small-volume manufacturers are often forced sions or styling-led requirements and which led prehensive handcrafted dashboard and instru-
to adopt makes it crucial to ensure that the to an all-new platform being created. There’s mentation with inverted dial needles, which
entire package is right the first time. no arguing that the car’s overwhelming front are evocative of early Bentleys while the entire
And Bentley has been spot on that aspect face has some unusual design elements, es- instrument panel design is a subtle reminder
with the new Mulsanne, supersized ultra pecially, the odd front headlamps. Although, of the Bentley wings motif.
luxury saloon car. So, it doesn’t come as a they are more of a historical reference out As a new model, the Mulsanne is miles
surprise that the design chapter for the Mul- here, they are actually more of an aesthetic ahead of its predecessors, especially in the
sanne focuses on dimensions and proportions reference to the 1950s S-Type. We can em- electronics department. The Mulsanne boasts
first as anything else. At first glance, besides pathise with the idea of trying to morph a
the overwhelming presence, it seems to have 50s design element into a 21st century style-
preserved the Arnage’s exclusivity, and yet re- sheet, and regardless of what we think, those
main detached from the Continental. It does lights are housed into the ‘cavity superformed’
have that glorious coachbuilt look, thanks to front mudguards. Meanwhile, the doors and
cutting edge solutions for construction and bonnet are also made of aluminium using the
bespoke options. [Eds note: Mulliner, the of- same process. In superforming, metal sheets
ficial bespoke supplier will also offer custom are pre-heated and complex shapes formed
solutions later]. using vacuum systems, which cannot be done
The Mulsanne is boxy upfront and appears in conventional stamping methods.
to be chiseled out of a solid block. Breaking At the rear, the boot lid not being made of
the monotony is the traditional Bentley ma- aluminium may surprise many. No, it wasn’t
trix grille, classic round inner headlamps with a cost cutting exercise, but rather a techni-
chrome surrounds, flanked by two, smaller cal requirement. It uses layered composite
outboard lamp clusters, all featuring the lat- polymer in its construction and somewhere in
est in lighting technology. The iconic ‘Flying those layers are the antenna for the nav sys-
B’ retractable radiator mascot is available as tem. Similarly, the sensors for the new keyless
17
{cover story}
of a cutting-edge setup, thanks to its Ger- optional side view cameras. And for audio- as pistons, connecting rods and forged crank-
man ownership, the car gets a substantially philes, there’s a 2,200-watt Naim audio sys- shaft are now much lighter. Team Bentley has
reworked version of Audi’s extremely user- tem which relegates sound through 20 strate- also introduced cam phasing and variable dis-
friendly Multi Media Interface (MMI) infotain- gically placed speakers. placement management or cylinder deactiva-
ment architecture, which makes the naviga- In VAG’s parts bin, there’s an array of mod- tion to the forced fed bi-turbo powerplant –
tion system in the Arnage, quite archaic. While ern V6, V8, V10 and W12 engines to choose both are technological firsts in the ultra-luxury
the system is basically the same as on the from, but end of the day, it was more of heri- segment and have been brought in to improve
2011 A8, but it operates without a touchpad. tage reference that dictated the displacement fuel economy and lower emissions.
Instead of Audi’s all-in-one controller, Bentley capacity and type of engine to be employed In this garb, the 6¾-litre V8 delivers
has instead chosen to install the system ver- for the job. As a result, the new Mulsanne gets 505bhp at 4,200 rpm and 1,020Nm of torque
tically in the central console stack below the a 6¾-litre (also pronounced as six and three- from just 1,750 rpm. The new 6.75 is mated
HVAC controls which is quite consistent with quarters) V8 with 90-degree banks and in its to a ZF-sourced eight-speed gearbox, and the
the marque’s upper-crust image. There’s an half a century, Bentley has offered just one Mulsanne is the first ‘large’ Bentley to be fit-
eight-inch navigation display screen hidden eight-cylinder, but this isn’t the same engine. ted with paddleshifters. The latter are simple
behind a veneered door, a 60GB hard drive In fact, it is a highly upgraded version of the spoke-mounted +/- pull tabs similar in look
for data and navigation storage, and even an Arnage’s L-series V8 block, which can trace its and operation to those used on Audis. The
iPod hook up port. Since the car is extra wide, origins back to the firm’s first V8 from 1959 chrome finish shifters and knurled finger grips
Bentley has given it extra eyes in form new has been used, but components inside such mimic the pattern on the outside door han-
18
{cover story}
dles. The steel chassis also houses an active to get acquainted and from there on, the drive massive improvement over the Arnage and
suspension system, so there are air springs all was not as complicated as we had anticipated. we think it is much more sportier in most de-
round and the car rides on 265/40 Pirelli P Ze- As we discovered during different phases of partments than its direct rival, the Rolls-Royce
ros mounted on standard 20in wheels. Larger driving that this isn’t really the sort of car that Phantom. The reworked and redesigned rela-
21in are optional and so are carbon ceramic feels like it shrinks around the driver when tively low-revving V8 engine is highly civilized,
brakes with eight piston calipers. As part of putting foot on to those drilled pedals. Despite quiet, and will only be heard when there’s
the new software, the Drive Dynamics Control its weight, this rear-wheel drive car is excep- some prodding. In the highlands of Scotland
system allows the driver to select three driv- tionally quick and does 0-96km/h in 5.1secs with two border crossings, we enjoyed the lei-
ing modes - ‘Bentley’, ‘Sport’ and ‘Comfort’. flat. On straight tarmac, we pushed the V8 surely paced wafts along at 80 mph and high-
There’s also provision for drivers to save their and its solid locomotive steel-chassis close to er in virtual silence. The aerodynamic profiling
own custom settings also. 290km/h. And at street legal speeds, the car is for this slighty boxy profiled car is amazing
Whether you are in the driver’s seat or as a unstressed even with four of the cylinders de- with incredible isolation from wind and road
back seat passenger, this car is like a palace on activated. The variable displacement system noise. Part of that is due to the acoustically
wheels. However, it was the Mulsanne’s extra works like a treat. And in any mode the car is treated windows, but the engineers have done
width [car plus extra wide door mounted side eerily quiet inside the cabin. an incredible job of reducing wheel and tyre
mirrors] combined with Scotland’s narrow- The car is so well connected with the driv- noise also.
gauge country roads that initially challenge er that on the road, not only you experience Mulsanne also has a few cans of surprises
our driving skills. It took about half an hour the Mulsanne’s super refined character, it is a too. It can dive into corners like a sports car
19
{cover story}
Verdict
In the automotive business which is now char- heritage and tradition, and have upped the
acterized by takeovers and revamps by either game in the authenticity department while pe-
carmakers or venture capitalists, there’s al- riodically allowing benefits of their vast parts
ways an element of uncertainty with the re- bin.
lationship and the products that will come out So, is the new Mulsanne a magnificent piece
from the marriage. While VW AG has owned of motoring? In three letters, yes and it’s not
Bentley since 1998, it may seem a bit long to our solo opinion. Bentley says the 2011 model
think that the Mulsanne is the first new ‘big’ year is already completely spoken for – no
Bentley produced. Thankfully, the German doubt by people who know an enviable tradi-
owners have understood the British marque’s tion when they see one.
20
{cover story}
<< This is the first large bentley in 30 years that the company
can claim is 100 per cent authentic to its heritage – be it design,
engineering or performance. The car just wafts along like a
powerful locomotive without a hint of stress. Even at 120km/h,
the new v8 is almost completely silent>>
21
{cover story}
Bentley 8-litre The six-cylinder engine used a one-piece all around, and 4-wheel servo-assisted drum
The 8 Litre was the largest and most luxurious iron block and cylinder head with a crankcase brakes were also specified, the car wasn’t as
Bentley luxury car made prior to the purchase made from an exotic magnesium alloy called rough one would expect it to be.
of the marque by Rolls-Royce. It used a mas- Electrons. The cylinder head featured four Only 100 of these cars were produced: 35
sive 7,983cc straight-six engine and rode on valves per cylinder, as well as twin-spark igni- were on a 145-inch wheelbase and 65 were on
a long 3,658mm or longer 3,962mm wheel- tion; both were state-of-the-art at the time. a 153-inch wheelbase; fewer than 25 per cent
base, making it the largest car produced in the The bore was 110 mm and the stroke was were fitted with open bodies. It is suggested
United Kingdom up to that time. 140mm. The manufacturer claimed a maxi- that the car was a prime reason for Bentley
The car was conceived similarly to the Bu- mum speed of approximately 200 km/h). Motors going bankrupt, but when on Rolls-
gatti Royale — as a halo car to vault the maker A four-speed manual transmission with a Royce bought the company in 1931, it imme-
into position as the supreme maker of luxury single-plate dry clutch sent power to the rear diately disposed of all 8-Liter spare parts.
cars in the world. However, like the Bugatti, wheels, however the placement of the gear As a result of their rarity, they are much
the 8 Litre Bentley failed to sell in sufficient shifter was unlike modern cars. Because of sought after by collectors: It is believed pres-
numbers to make a profit. Launched at the the handbrake placement obstructing the ently that only 78 chassis survive and the car
1930 London Olympia Motor Show in October driver’s entry, driver’s found it better to use in the pictures was a company car for WO.
1930, just as the great depression hit Europe, the passenger door instead. The rear door Bentley have meticulously restored the car to
the chassis was priced at £1,850, making it an swung in the opposite direction [aka suicide its original sheen. At the event, we were given
exclusive and pricey vehicle. doors]. While semi-elliptical springs were used taxi rides in this closed-body historical car.
22
{cover story}
c k e t
e t R o
Po c k
honda’s golf gTi slayer, the Uk-built Civic Type-R, has finally arrived
in Oman. automan discovers its true genes
| Author: Chandan B Mallik | Photography: Shakeel Al Baloushi
24
{Road Test}
H
onda in general is generally a consid- traced directly to the 1992 Honda NSX Type R,
ered a conservative carmaker that con- which featured a lightweight chassis, stiffened
sistently cranks out modestly refined body, fine tuned engine and upgraded perfor-
cars. Besides its attempt to produce neo-lux- mance brakes.
ury cars and charge premium pricing, it oc- Honda Civic Type- R is a high-performance
casionally produces a wicked little something version of Civic introduced in 1997. It is cur-
that sneaks through the cracks and reminds rently in its third generation and comes with
us that it can also offer a little spice too. two distinct varieties – One for European and
As a self-confessed Honda aficionado, at one for Japanese, domestic market. The Mid-
times, I personally feel that Honda has split dle East gets the European version. The Civic
personality, very similar to Japanese compa- Type R has earned itself a cult following in
triot Subaru. Subaru’s claim to fame comes Europe.
through its boxer-engined all-wheel-drive rally As a spiritual successor to the previous
race cars, whereas Honda combines a strong generation that was retired from active duty
racing heritage with a reputation for more in 2007, it seems the development focus has
mundane mainstream models. revolved around bold and emotional styling
But all this is changing gradually, and if teamed up with a further development of the
one follows Honda through the recent motor previous Type R’s race proven and high-rev-
shows – New Delhi, Detroit, Geneva, Beijing ving powertrain.
among others – Honda has certainly been The Civic Type R is offered only as a three
making noises with impressive concepts and door hatch in the UK, so it uses a different
ideas what its thinks future motoring could chassis and mechanical components in its sus-
look like. pension. When compared to its saloon cousin,
While we don’t know how many concepts the rear suspension, formerly a double wish-
will actually make it in to production, but we bone set-up, has been simplified changed to
do know that the Civic Type R three-door a less complex torsion beam axle. While the
hatch has finally arrived in several Middle East Honda runs on 225/40 R18 Y88 Bridgestone
markets, Oman being among them. Potenza tyres and despite seemingly tight
The Middle East markets, till the pre-global wheel arches and low ground clearance, it can
economic meltdown phase, hardly attracted accommodate larger 19in alloys with 225/35
small cars, let alone compact B-segment tyres. The car has a curb weight of 1,350kg.
hatchbacks. But all that has begun to change From the design aspect, although the car is
and admittedly, rarely does a pint-sized hatch- a hatch with a clear emphasis is on coupé-like
back generate so much excitement in markets styling and the highly stylised and individual
that has been predominantly SUV and large personality has been achieved not by a radical
car dominated. But with now more openness change of design, but by a series of unique
and acceptance of smaller sub-B segment cars, detailing such more sharply tapered rear side
the market is getting interesting with several windows, bold side skirts, a noticeably wid-
automotive brands from Japan, Korea, India ened track and the large wheel wells. The spe-
and Europe vying for consumer attention. cial character of the Civic Type R is highlighted
There’s a bonus also attached to the equa- by well drawn-down body coloured front and
tion if you follow how this segment is shaping rear skirts, a rear spoiler plus a radiator grille
up. Till now, the market for performance ori- with enlarged air intake.
ented small hatchbacks has been small with The rear is signed off with a bumper that
the exception of Volkswagen’s all-time GTI, features a built in diffuser and completing the
Seat’s Leon FR and Cupra models, and Re- aero package with a huge rear wing.
nault’s Clio sport models. Despite being built in the UK, the build qual-
From Honda’s perspective, the Civic Type R ity, tolerances and materials of this three door
is the highest performance spec of the Civic car are top notch Honda standards and the
series. The “Type R” designation is usually giv- whole set-up works well with good ergonom-
en to models that have been developed and ics and extremely supportive two tone sporty
tuned in-house, but not by Mugen, Honda’s seats with extra side bolstering. Although
officially owned tuning set-up. These non-Mu- there’s a raked windscreen and seating posi-
gen performance models also end up in circuit tion is low, the outward visibility is good and
competitionas high performance derivatives getting in and out of the car is facilitated
and in the case of Honda, the lineage can be through the extra wide doors. However, due
25
{Road Test}
to the nature of the cabin layout and extra seats and Momo steering wheel of the older
side bolstering, the front seat has to slide back edition! However, the drilled aluminium pedals
for ingress and egress. Meanwhile, the rest of make up for that sporty appeal.
the interior layout is familiar, especially Civic The dials in the fascia are also red illumi-
saloon owners who not only will appreciate nated and set off by brushed metal switch
the genuine touch of sportiness and gener- panels. We particularly liked the floating dis-
ous amount of space for the both front and play in the centre of the instrument cluster
rear passengers, despite its diminutive size. which is just as modern and functional as that
Some clever engineering has gone in here. of the 5-door. The most essential information
In this car, the fuel tank has been positioned is placed at the very top of the display and rel-
centrally under the front seat similar to some atively far forward, which distracts the driver
other family models, and this allows a low, flat less from the actual traffic situation and re-
rear floor in the back. quires the eyes to adapt less. While, second-
As expected, the interior is very sporty in ary information is spaced around this central
design and very well executed. It also focus, it always remains in the field of vision
combines elements from motor racing and without distracting.
from high-quality sports cars. Large black The steering wheel is covered in perfo-
Alcantara bolsters with red stitching provide rated leather with red stitching. The knob
the driver and front seat passenger with both of the gearshifter is also machined from bil-
good side grip and an ergonomically perfect let aluminium, and there’s a special engraved
sitting position. Yes, we do miss the Recaro production serial number tag, similar to the
26
{Road Test}
Maserati Granturismo Limited Edition at the the car hence it appears almost everywhere in erage is slightly on the higher side, if one
base of the central console. some form and the other interesting feature considers immediate competition. Consider
For a sports car, we were surprised with related to colour is the use of a special colour the output from the Seat Cupra R edition, at
the extra content. Actually, there’s quite a bit from the days of Honda’s F1 winning car from 265bhp, it definitely puts the Honda or even
of kit and includes dual layered digital instru- the 60’s called “Championship White” and a for that matter its own cousin the Golf GTI in
mentation, dual zone air-conditioning, a leath- Honda log with a red background. to shade. We think in an automatic gearbox
er-wrapped steering wheel, a six-CD changer Unlike the saloon version which is powered dominated market, the Type R’s main prob-
and a digital information centre computer. As by a 1.8-litre normally aspirated four pot, the lem for the Middle East market could be its
a modern car, the stereo has USB and auxilia- Type R is powered by a 2.0-litre DOHC i-VTEC manual six-speed gearbox, which is normal
ry inputs for MP3 players. Full power features naturally-aspirated four cylinder engine fea- for European markets. However, we think an
and cruise control are also standard. turing VTC variable inlet camshaft technology. automatic – unless it was a Volkswagen-Audi
Then there’s practicality too. The stowage It offers 198hp at 7,500rpm and 193 Nm of direct shift gearbox (DSG) – wouldn’t make
capacity behind the front seats is generous torque at 5,600rpm and this is a commend- much sense or difference as a traditionally
with a capacity of 485 litres with seats folded able effort, since most other manufacturers cogged gearbox with Tiptronic would readily
up. The rear seats feature special kinematics have resorted to force feeding fuel with turbo- kill the fun factor in this car.
by which the back-rests can be lowered and to chargers for additional boost. Honda has been As with Honda cars, occupants usually don’t
create more space. All you need to do is just among the top normally-aspirated engine de- have to worry about safety in this car, as pas-
release the back-rest catch. Rear seats can signs when it comes to extracting maximum sive safety as always has been prioritized at
also be split asymmetrically (60:40) to release output. This engine is tad shy of the one litre Honda. Safety kit includes front, side and cur-
more space. 100hp club! tain SRS airbags and double pretensioners on
Red is a popular and dominating colour in And going by the figures the segment av- the front seatbelts.
27
{Road Test}
Driving impressions
What is interesting is the fact that this car’s sleek surfaces and improved aerodynamic
main selling points are its engine and driving packaging ensures that the car slices through
dynamics and hence were not really expect- any wind resistance with least counter effort.
ing it to be a heavily laden with features.The The suspension in this road rocket is taught,
Honda Civic Type R does look the business, so cornering is great fun with a steering that
and sounds willing too. The steering is as offers superb feedback combined with a gear
expected slightly heavy due to the wide low ratio that makes better usage of the high-
profile tyres and its feedback to the driver’s revving engine.
input is pretty commendable. The suspension Despite the surefooted handling of the
is stiff, but not as stiff as that of the Lotus Ev- Civic 5-door’s MacPherson strut/torsion beam
ora, hence one could say it is a mix of luxury chassis arrangement that is carried over to
and sportiness in a bundle. Although, it will the more sporty Civic derivatives, the car is
not 100 per cent absorb road imperfections, tad stop short of being razor sharp – and this
but the nice thing is that the tight build of the is where Mugen takes over.
car and its stiff body ensures that there are This is also perhaps one of the reasons why
not unwanted rattles or shakes. a Type S derivative was created [not available
We had the car for several days and sub- here yet] with revised spring and damper set-
jected it to various road and driving condi- tings to help deliver sharper chassis dynam-
tions. In general, it is a spirited car, but it’s ics, while a 20 mm wider rear track and 17in
not as aggressive or extreme as say the Seat light alloy wheels shod with
Leon Cupra R. Its free willing and high-rev- 225/45 YR17 tyres provide enhanced grip.
ving engine continues entertain with no drop Anyhow, for our market, we have to live with
in torque delivery. What would excite a driver 18in alloy wheels and 225/40 YR18 extra leg-
of this car is with the tweaking, the high rpm room and greater freedom of movement in
VTEC range is now broader and more acces- general on the front seats.
sible. This means effectively that the switch Anyhow, for our market, we have to live
to long duration valve timing in the reworked with 18in alloy wheels and 225/40 YR18tyres
engine covers the range from 5,400 to 8,000 until alternative options are offered.
rpm up to the peak power output. With previ- The current combo is good as there is an
ous engines, this output was available up to a exclusive steering-assist setting that contrib-
speed of 7,900 rpm, but we think it has been utes significantly to the car’s sharp responses
toned down to meet the current European to driver input.
legislation. Stopping power is assured and on the dot,
The driver is informed of the cam change thanks to the large 300mm ventilated front
via an i-VTEC indicator just to the right of the brake discs and 260mm solid discs at the rear.
digital speedometer. Since the car is virtually Of course, a car with this magnitude of kit
glued to the ground it can actually appear also gets ABS, Electronic Brake force Distribu-
faster than you think. The stiff chassis makes tion (EBD) and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA),
for excellent dynamic handling, with the car designed to assist the driver in maintaining
staying level and balanced around the corners control during cornering, acceleration and
and there’s plenty of feedback from the tyres sudden manoeuvres. The key niggle so far,
through the steering wheel, which is a pretty the rear spoiler looks cool but restricts rear
impressive for the size and shape of this car. visibility and secondly, we thought that the
Even with the short throw manual shifter, working arrangement with the starter button
it is capable of fast shifts, depending on the was odd. You can use it to fire up the engine,
driver and its quite normal to do the 0-100 but you still need to put the key in the ignition
km/h sprint in around 6.6secs with a top speed and turn it. Aren’t modern push button starter
around 235 km/h. The sharper wedge profile, motor switches meant to make life easier.
<< The car’s lineage can be traced directly to the 1992 honda NSx
Type R featuring a light and stiff body with tweaked mechanicals>>
28
{Road Test}
Verdict
End of the day how does this European ma- In the UK, Top Gear Magazine awarded the Although, the Civic Type R is well-packaged,
chine stack up? As a relatively young and new European Civic Type R its ‘Hot Hatch of 2007’ handles and performs well, but by today’s
fighter in the growing hot hatch game, the praising the car’s controls and comparing it fa- standards it does fall short dynamically espe-
Type R should be capable of taking a lot of vourably as a driver’s car. cially in the areas steering and chassis balance
beating in the region as there isn’t much ri- However, in four years the market dynam- when compared to extreme rivals.
valry in the segment. One advantage of this ics has changed and so has the car industry. Over all, the car has an individual person-
model arriving a bit late in the Middle East is With more and more potent hot hatches com- ality and is practical with the classic Honda
that it has given its creators extra time to study ing from competitors such as Ford with its Fo- virtues such as guaranteed driving pleasure
competition, rework the packaging wherever cus ST, Opel with its Astra OPC and Volkswa- together with brilliantly low fuel consumption.
applicable and on top of it, taken a leaf out of gen with its superb Golf GTi, the benchmark The car is on sale in the region and is attrac-
its revolutionary ancestors’ books. in the segment has considerably moved up. tively priced.
29
{First drive}
30
{First drive}
I
n the Middle East, the Nissan’s Maxima
has been one of the carmaker’s most suc-
cessful models. The model was originally
known as the Datsun 810 or Bluebird when
the model series was formed in 1976. In 1982,
the model series officially became the Maxima
in a year that also saw Datsun metamorphose
into Nissan. Nissan started selling the Maxima
from the third-generation model in the Middle
East in 1990, a year after it was launched and
continued selling them till 1994. Instantly, it
was regarded as first Maxima with true sport-
ing credentials and it came at a time when
Nissan was enjoying a product renaissance.
Nissan continued enjoying success with
the fourth and fifth generation also. The sixth
generation Maxima, code-named A34, was
only sold in the United States, Canada and
Mexico and hence we never saw it in the re-
gion officially, barring a few personal imports.
Hence, the outgoing Maxima fifth-generation
sold from 2000 was the last official Middle
East import. Meanwhile, the arrival of the Alti-
ma in both 2.5-litre and 3.5-litre garbs started
encroaching into the slot made vacant by the
absence of Maxima. In the US, where both
models were sold simultaneously, it was not-
ed by Nissan that the bigger-engined Altima
had significantly cornered a sizable chunk of
Maxima’s market share.
Naturally, this situation posed a serious
dilemma for product strategists. What to do
with two successful models from one brand
with very similar characteristics? Would drop-
ping a model work? Not really. So, the option
was to separate the models in terms of posi-
tioning and character. For the Maxima it was
decided to focus it with a balance between
sport and luxury, while the Altima could con-
centrate more on comfort and convenience.
With support from Nissan, the sixth gen-
eration [model code A34] during its lifecycle
saw several engineering innovations included
such as the VQ35DE DOHC 3.5-litre engine,
and some cosmetic upgrade and CVT trans-
mission during its mid-cycle refresh in 2007.
With the product positioning clear at Nissan
for these two models, we are not surprised
with the idea that Nissan now wants us to
believe that the all-new seventh generation
Maxima [model code A35] is a proper four
door sports car. But we have questions be-
cause when anyone mentions a new four-
door sports car to us, what immediately
conjours is a rear wheel drive tyre-smoking
Nurburgring-tuned and perfected hot metal
capable of vanquishing the likes of BMW M5s
at the street corner drags. So what’s in the
Maxima package and how does it differentiate
31
{First drive}
itself from sibling Altima? has gone more upscale in its approach. In-
First on the list is architecture. Nissan still side the car, there’s cockpit-like cocoon where
believes that the front-wheel drive cars such most of the action happens greets the driver
as the Maxima have traditionally enjoyed a who also gets a tilt and telescoping steering
certain ‘duality’ - a unique fusion of saloon wheel. Costing cutting seems to be the order
practicality with the soul of a sports car. But, when you see the paddle shifters have been
ground reality is that in recent years, competi- lifted directly from the 350Z. Meanwhile, the
tive vehicles have caught up with Maxima in stitched leather bound interior comes with
‘sporty’ looks and performance. So, what’s the a premium air-conditioned driver’s seat with
real deal up here? manual thigh extension. At the rear, there’s
For five generations Maximas have been space three adults and the practicality of a
built on a front-wheel drive platform and one 60:40 split fold seat with access to the boot.
would expect an evolution here. Yet with the There’s more bin parts lifting as you scan
new Maxima, the development team opened the interior minutely, piece by piece. The fa-
a Pandora’s Box for discussion and including miliar Nissan corporate central console an-
debates related to the benefits of front-wheel chors the cockpit, dividing the car into the
drive versus rear-wheel drive. Although, we business and pleasure departments with it
are aware of the advantages of RWD in terms usual fervour. The driver’s position is good as
of handling, it was ultimately decided that by it offers a clear view of the instrument cluster,
switching Maxima from its previous platform which as expected contains a speedometer in
to Nissan’s new ‘D platform,’ which was first the centre, flanked by a tachometer on the
introduced on the current line-up of Altimas, left, and fuel and temperature gauges on the
the targeted performance could be delivered right. To the lower left, are secondary con-
without giving up the added FWD benefits trols including a vehicle stability control on/
of lower costs, lower weight and enhanced off switch, mirror controls, and a slot for the
roominess versus a RWD platform. smart key. We have said this before and we
OK, seems logical so far. However, a range say it again, the deal is raw related to kitting
of enhancements were also needed to achieve the car with binned stuff, when the car is sup-
these targets, which including things like in- posed to be premium material.
creased body rigidity, adjustments to the The navigation system, for a change is a
wheelbase and track dimensions. As a result, new version of a style previously seen in other
body rigidity was increased by 15 per cent and Nissans and upmarket Infinitis. The shift lever
front strut mounting rigidity was increased by is now offset towards the driver and offers the
100 per cent, with all-new structures added ability for manual-style gear change program-
to the engine compartment and additional re- ming from the CVT transmission. There is a
inforcement applied to the instrument panel choice of two optional roof openings: a stan-
structure. dard moonroof, or the dual-panel moonroof
The new Nissan Maxima is marginally available with the premium equipment pack-
smaller than the outgoing edition and has a age. For the powertrain, the car carries over
wheelbase of 109.3 in, a decrease of 1.9in, the VQ 35DE 3.5-litre V6 engine mated to a
but is wider by 1.5in to 73.2in. Meanwhile, the new Xtronic CVT Continuously Variable Trans-
front and rear track measurement of 62.4in mission. The revisited DOHC 24-valve engine
represents increases of 1.4in front and 1.2in has been chipped to offer 290hp and 261 lb-ft
rear over the previous model. On the design of torque representing a healthy increase of
front, the car does have pleasant proportions 35hp and nine lb-ft of torque over the previous
but its grafted GT-R inspired headlamps may Maxima. And for drivers seeking the utmost
not appeal to many and in our opinion, the in vehicle control, a new “Ds mode” (drive
styling is a bit controversial — and being a sport) has been added to the CVT. “Ds mode”
subjective matter, you either like it or hate it. is an electronic control logic, that enhances
However, like a high-end saloon that has sport driving through increased acceleration
grown up, the new Maxima shows a mature, feel with higher engine revolutions, automatic
refined look, thanks to the deliberate sculpted engine braking and maintaining engine speed
look of the bonnet or the creased character during cornering.
lines running on the mudguards. Add to that Additional “D platform” enhancements in-
some modern amenities such as flashy LED clude the use of aluminum suspension links,
taillights and long overhangs, and you get revised suspension geometry, new technology
a complete picture. As much as the Nissan shocks, revised steering and suspension ge-
pushes the 4-Door Sports Car envelop with ometries, a lower engine mounting.
the Maxima, we can’t help but think that it
32
{First drive}
33
{First drive}
<< arguably, the sixth-generation maxima was a hit [it still is] with
its middle East clientele, as it did have several advantages in terms
of power, comfort and interior space >>
34
{First drive}
Driving impressions
A car that’s touted as a four door sports car which is important in the high-power front-
sporting a powerful engine mated to a contin- drive segment. The revised Xtronic S-CVT with
uously-variable transmission may sound a bit over 700 new shift algorithms now features a
odd to genuine sports car aficionados who are new Ds (Drive Sport) mode, which we could
used to short throw manual shifters or state- immediately feel under foot. Nissan claims a
of-the-art direct shift gearboxes. So, the big quick gear-ratio change in the “downshifts”
question is how can a CVT offer sporting char- of the CVT coming into a turn, followed by
acter in a car like the Maxima? Nissan says an auto gear hold, on exit. We would have to
the Maxima’s CVT set-up belongs to the three- agree: power just kept winding up as we ac-
mode Xtronic systems, which unlike other CVT celerated through a turn.
set-ups, actually allows the driver to use either The new Maxima’s suspension has been
paddle shifters or a gated stick shift to “shift” thoroughly sorted as well. A strut-coil spring
the gears through six programmed steps. In suspension rules in the front of the new flag-
other words, there should be a feel of the ship, while a rear multi-link with stabilizer bar
cogs up or downshifting. holds sway out back. (pun intended). Steer-
After the driving the Maxima for few ki- ing is now controlled by a “Twin-Orifice Power
lometres, one begins to empathise with the Steering System (TOPS), which sounds pain-
package. Interestingly, only 20hp and approx- ful, and is similar to equipment found in the
imately 94kg differentiate both cars. In fact, 350Z. We found it tracked well and transmit-
the power to weight ratio in both cars are very ted a good amount of road feel. Not overly
close, yet the Maxima feels much more spir- harsh, nor marshmallow soft, it offered great
ited and aggressive. Much of this character road handling through a variety of routes
was deliberately inculcated in the Maxima by ranging from bumpy backwoods country lanes
chassis engineers who took extra measures in to major expressways in the
stiffening it along with the chassis guys who At 290 horsepower, the Maxima’s V6 is right
Besides this, the engine in the Maxima at the top of the class in terms of power de-
seems to be a free revver and it’s to do with velopment for its size, but it’s not peaky or
the increased air intake and increased fuel cranky because the valve and intake systems
burn efficiency and lowered exhaust backpres- keep it optimized for whatever gear and rev
sure. The hydraulic steering system seems to range. It has both variable valve timing and
offers better adaptability for slow as well as a variable intake system, a system that opens
high speed maneuvers than the speed sensi- wide at about 4,500 rpm, wide enough that
tive power steering of the Altima. you can hear the engine sound change dra-
Regardless, pulling the trigger results in a matically, adding to the driving enjoyment.
launch with a minimal amount of torque-steer,
Verdict
At that price, Nissan’s brand-new Maxima
proffers a high-output V-6, an advanced con-
tinuously variable transmission, oodles of
electronic conveniences, and what’s claimed
to be one of the best-performing front-drive
chassis in the world.
The Nissan Maxima is one of the most fun-to-
drive cars in the class, and one of the best-en-
gineered front-drive sporty sedans available,
from its accurate, quick steering to the engine
power to the remarkably good performance of
the CVT. It isn’t the roomiest car in the class,
and it isn’t the least expensive. Instead, it’s
designed as a premium car for drivers who
want something sporty.
35
{also driven}
Unadulterated fun
36
{also driven}
Brand and model perspective
L
exus designed and created the GS with
a purpose. It wanted to bridge the gap
between the ES and LS, and to provide
Lexus with a true performance saloon to com-
pete in the mid-luxury class dominated by
German premium brands. The first generation
rear-wheel drive GS was introduced in 1993
for US, Europe and selected markets in Asia.
Till date, three generations of the GS have
been produced and the GS 300 continues to
serve in the region with a host of technolo-
gy-led solutions and improvements. The cur-
rent model was introduced in 2006 and was
actually the first to adopt the brand’s highly
stylized L-finesse design language and is built
on a newly-designed midsize platform which
is also used on the second generation IS.
Since it is an advanced platform it continues
unchanged for 2010. And as before, the car
retains its 112.2in long wheelbase, long bon-
net, pulled-back cabin and short rear profile.
It’s tapered, vertical grille surrounded by four
wraparound but independent headlamps, typ-
ical of the current GS models but interestingly
conveys the brand’s design progression. The
lower valance features integrated fog lamps,
and with its raked A-pillars and overall wedge
profile commands an impressive and low Cd
0.27 drag coefficient.
This cabin is an exceptionally lively place to
be in whether you are the driver or its passen-
ger. It invites you with its European ambience
led by ultra-premium wood, polished-metal
accents and leather trim, besides dollops of
comfort and space for five adults. It has a
high-precision feel and most touch points con-
vey very high quality and that includes intui-
tive response of controls as well. Lexus offers
three interior leather colour combinations:
Light Grey leather with Dark Grey Bird’s-eye
maple wood trim, Parchment leather with
Golden Bird’s-eye Maple wood trim, or Black
leather with Red Walnut wood trim.
As befitting the status of the brand, Lexus
designers strive to keep controls simple and
intuitive, avoiding needless complexity. The
SmartAccess keyless entry and push-to-start
ignition allow the driver to keep the access
fob in a pocket or purse. Audio and climate-
control systems are easy to understand and
operate. The unique instrument panel lighting
system relies on variable-transparency glass
to minimize reflections from the dials and to
help optimize visibility in all lighting condi-
tions.
What we also like is the memory function
settings for individual drivers. There’s a pop-
37
{also driven}
Driving impressions
Lexus is known for a smooth ride and luxury quickens the mechanical ratio while at the good handling qualities, while gas-charged
appointments, and the GS has accomplished same time reducing effort at very low speeds, shocks and coil springs offer a balanced ride.
road manners. As a Lexus, the cabin is ex- then provides a slower ratio for more preci- Body roll during fast driving is minimized and
ceptionally quite and its strongest point is its sion and higher effort at higher speeds of the the introduction of the Vehicle Dynamics In-
sense of balance that makes driving this car a bigger sibling. While the sophisticated system tegrated Management system seems to do its
truly enjoyable affair. Even during a morning in the bigger car makes the GS more man- job pretty well by making certain corrections
commute, you can enjoy driving the car ef- ageable, it has its drawbacks from a purist’s and allowing the driver to continue without
fortlessly. Even with the smaller engine, the point of view. Despite the sophistication, both even realizing that the system is at work. In
GS can rip down the road and the low profile the electric power steering and electric brake contrast to conventional ESC systems, which
wide tyres furnish plenty of cornering grip. system occasionally deliver an unnatural feel react to a car’s loss of control, VDIM remains
While on highway and city driving, the car’s through the controls, but thankfully, in the on high alert all the time as it has been devel-
electric power steering is exceptionally re- smaller car this is not an issue as the car con- oped to anticipate a dangerous situation and
sponsive, so one doesn’t miss the benefits of nects more directly with the driver. offer lightning quick corrections or responses.
the variable gear ratio steering system which The suspension geometry gives the GS very
38
{also driven}
Verdict
In three generations of the GS, the model standard equipment works behind-the-scenes
series has reaffirmed its solid dynamic, yet virtually unnoticed. From a driver’s perspec-
free of gimmicks credentials. It does what it is tive, the GS is rewarding to drive with its calm
meant to do and by that we mean it combines and intuitive personality, but what we particu-
precision with luxurious appointments, offers larly like about the car is its balanced han-
a high standard of automotive performance, dling and performance on demand attitude.
yet is intuitive to drive. What’s more, the level It’s best of both worlds – performance and
of automotive technology that’s included as luxury.
39
{Interview}
Murcielago
successor
40
{Interview}
L
amborghini plans to replace its Murcie- inspiration for the Navarra’s overlapping sur-
lago soon and its plant in Sant’Agata Bo- faces and organic shapes. The challenge was
lognese is gearing up for the launch of to maintain Lamborghini’s image while bring-
the successor. The new Murcielago is expect- ing it do the next generation.”
ed to be unveiled at the Geneva auto show in Denning hasn’t tampered much with the
March 2011 and will be constructed in light- mechanicals of this car including dimensions.
weight material. It will use Audi’s aluminium “The dimensions of the concept car are very
spaceframe chassis bonded to an extremely similar to the current Murcielego. The over-
light, strong and stiff carbon fibre body using all length is only 2cm shorter, but the wheel
aerospace bonding and riveting technology. base is longer, thus creating short overhangs.
Lockheed Martin designer Adam Denning However, for all practical purposes, Denning
has some ideas for the new model which will doesn’t expect the new car to downsize in
be the first entirely new top-of-the-line Lam- displacement as part of its ‘return to roots’
borghini in almost four decades. In his pro- philosophy, an obvious reference to the 1963
posal of the Raging Bull model replacement, predecessor which came with a 3.5-litre unit.
he created the Lamborghini Navarra Concept Getting the final shape and proportions
as a design study exploring the evolution pos- right was a daunting task admits Denning. “I
sibilities of a V12 car to succeed the current am an extreme Lamborghini enthusiast. So
Murcielago. this project was a big challenge for me. To
“I wanted to bring the brand’s identity create a car that would be something I felt
through into a new flagship model. I did not truly deserved to carry the Lamborghini badge
want to just create and new car to replace on the bonnet. I wanted to bring a concept
the Murcielago, but rather to re-enforce the that would hold true to the brands dramatic
development of the V12 segment of Lambo- razor edged style, but also with a touch of
rghini. I tried to imagine all the V12 flagships class and sophistication that makes Lambo-
of the brand from the Miura to the Murcielago, rghini so unique.”
and then create a car that would look like it Denning’s attention to detail has been im-
not only belonged in this group, but that it pressive especially for driver and occupant in
was the result of these cars as well,” he says. the way they will enter or exit, and start the
During his research of Lamborghini, Den- car. In fact, it will use cutting edge keyless
ning was inspired by La Pieta, a famous sculp- entry using electronic chipped cards. “I didn’t
ture by Michelangelo located in St. Peter’s Ba- mention this before how would be the entry/
silica in the Vatican City. “I was very inspired exit system would be operated. The driver
by the way Mary’s garments flow down and would keep something similar to a credit card
fold over each other. This was the in his wallet. So when they are near the driver
main would simply need to touch the surface of the
door near the window, the small triangle area,
and the door would open. This would mean
introduction of a new level of technology, but
one interior a key would still be required. I
chose to do this simply to maintain the raw
ecstasy of starting the engine without any
“new age” interference. I felt a “push button
start” would take away from the soul of what
a Lamborghini is.”
Denning’s association with the aerospace
industry is also quite evident, especially in
the air flow design and aerodynamic profil-
ing. “Since the new car is expected to con-
tinue with a V12 engine with between 650
41
{Interview}
and 700bhp on tap, I paid particular attention rghini will use advanced composites in build- need to hold onto that. But I do think it needs
to the upper air intakes which will be respon- ing the new Murceilago? “I think it is because to be updated. The hard edges and “stealth”
sible for cooling the engine. On the current of Lamborghini’s recent involvement with the surfaces are nice, but can get boring quite
Murcielago, there are intakes that open and University of Washington’s advanced compos- fast. That is why I tried to introduce just a
close to allow more air flow. I have incorpo- ites structure laboratory. I would imagine that touch of organic movement. Like I said, La
rated this into my design as well, but in a way these materials and construction advance- pieta was a huge inspiration for this car. I have
that wouldn’t change the overall shape of the ments will be considered for the chassis of the been to the vatican many times, and every
car. So what I envisioned was instead of the next generation of Lamborghini.” time I look at that sculpture I think ‘that would
top surface moving out like the Murcielago, Denning’s technical specs for the Navarra be a beautiful car’.”
the bottom surface would move in, creating would read something like this: carbon fibre Although the design study was not commis-
larger intakes. This would use a similar tech- chassis and body panels, V12 power, and the sioned, naturally Lamborghini has had no in-
nology and materials as BMW’s GINA. [GINA, option of a manual or electronic transmission. put with this concept car. Lamborghini hasn’t
by BMW is a new take on car design, materi- All coupled together he thinks would put this contacted Denning, but he would love to work
als, and flexibility. The GINA concept replaces car at the top of the performance list. with them in anyway. “Although I would love
the traditional metal/plastic skin with a textile As a designer does he think Lamborghini to hear from them, Lamborghini is the reason
fabric skin that’s pulled taut around a frame of should change its design language? “I don’t I got into car design, and to work with their
metal and carbon fibre. Even the shape of the think that Lamborghini needs to shift their amazing team of designers is the goal of all
car can change.] design language entirely. I think they have my years of study and work.”
So what makes Denning think that Lambo- something that no other brand has, and they
43
{Road Test}
44
{Road Test}
L
ess than a decade ago, full-size SUVs However, front and rear overhangs appear dominant grey-coloured interior. The steering
sold in significant numbers and gener- marginally reduced in the AWD version due column offers both tilt and telescopic functions
ated handsome profits for their manu- to its extended capabilities. Despite its over- and individual settings can be put in memory.
facturers. Although most of the models built whelming dimensions and physical presence [See box below for specific trim details]
then evolved from pick-up trucks, so it was the car achieves an impressive drag coeffi- Two powertrains are now available -- a
only a question of time before a manufacturer cient of 0.35, which means the vehicle offers 276hp 4.7-litre V8 which powers the SR5 and
jumped on to the bandwagon with something exceptional aerodynamic characteristics and Limited grades, while the top of line Plati-
bit more polished in a segment that was large- low wind-noise. The vehicle’s mirrors, wipers, num grade [our test vehicle] had the 5.7-litre
ly driven by American models such Chevrolet‘s A-pillar and roof header are also shaped to V8 engine. Both engines are mated to six-
Tahoe, Ford‘s Expedition and GMC‘s Yukon. maximize aerodynamic efficiency and minimize speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic
Toyota entered the fray with the US-only Se- wind noise. The car’s underside has also been function. The bigger displacement engine is
quoia in 2000, although the Land Cruiser, its optimized to reduce drag and wind noise, and ULEV-II compliant, meaning it emits very little
other SUV-pick up nameplate has been around to help improve directional stability. pollution (Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle). It is
since 1955 in global markets. The country spe- While the primary design goal for the in- modern in design and features four valves per
cific USA- built and truck based Sequoia differs terior seems to revolve around taking full cylinder and variable valve timing on both in-
from the premium global Land Cruiser in that advantage of spacious cabin and converting take and exhaust valves. Consistent with the
it is larger and its focus is more on heavy duty it in to a practical and user-friendly environ- architecture is the exhaust, which is made
jobs such as towing. ment for the driver and occupants, hence the from stainless steel and has four catalytic con-
While, the Land Cruiser is a more upscale element of premium luxury such as bespoke verters and with this package 381hp and 401
and luxurious with good off-road capability is wood trims, special effects, mood lighting are lb-ft of torque is available.
built in Japan and some other locations, the missing. But what is not missing is a cosy in- Being a large vehicle, Sequoia engineers
second generation Sequoia is built at Toyota’s terior which takes full advantage of the car’s specifically focused on improved ride com-
Princeton, Indiana plant. Despite the down- enhanced dimensions. We found space gener- fort and quietness, besides performance and
sizing trends in the industry especially in the ously accommodating eight adults with ample straight-line stability. Hence it’s not surprising
large 4x4 SUV segments, Toyota has kept the head, leg and shoulder room. Seats are wide to find an independent suspension set-up with
segment flame alive with the Sequoia which it with soft cushioning and driver’s seat comes upper and lower A-arms at each wheel, tubu-
introduced in 2008 by significantly upgrading equipped with power lumbar support, a fea- lar shock absorbers, coil springs and antiroll
it with kit and new efficient powertrains. As ture also available as an option on the front bar. In the higher spec model such as our tes-
of 2010, the Sequoia is sold exclusively in the passenger seat. ter, it came with air suspension package and
US, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Puerto Rico and On the practical side, the second-row seat Toyota’s Active Variable Suspension (AVS),
the Middle East and is available in four models comes equipped with a sliding mechanism with settings for comfort, normal and sport.
– SR5, Limited, Platinum Premium and Plati- that allows the seat to be adjusted nearly six Wrapping up the package are larger tyres and
num Luxury. inches fore and aft. This comes in handy when wheels with standard being 275/65 tyres and
Though many time-honored Land Cruiser one travels with less number of passengers. 18in rims, while 275/55 tyres are for the 20in
supporters welcomed the re-invigoration of For the third-row seat, there’s an advanced set-ups. The car uses 13.9in ventilated disc
the mechanical aspects of the vehicle, the 200 seat-cushion linkage reclining mechanism brakes up front and 13.6in ventilated disc
Series encountered criticism due to its contro- which helps in theatre type sitting. Meanwhile, brakes at the rear.
versial body restyling, with some claiming that the second-row seats are split 40:20:40 and As with Toyota models, the Sequoia gets
Toyota has ‘overdeveloped’ the classic trade- Toyota also offers separate captain’s seats a comprehensive active and passive safety
marked Land Cruiser identity. In that respect with flat fold down mechanisms. We were im- package which is based on Toyota’s STAR
Toyota designers haven’t tampered with the pressed with the way the access to third row Safety System. This means the car includes
design of the second generation Tundra, on seats has been designed. An easy-slide action includes VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), and
which the Sequoia is based. Not only did it get allows access to the third-row seat which also TRAC (Traction Control) (2WD models) or A-
most of the design DNA, it also gets own set splits 60:40 and folds flat. Since the car will TRAC (Active-Traction Control) (4WD models),
of clothing. So it’s no coincidence that from mostly be used by families, thoughtful fea- ABS (antilock braking) with EBD (electronic
the front both look very similar too, but unlike tures include jam protection for the front and brake force distribution) and Brake Assist. If
other rival SUV models in the past which had rear windows. Meanwhile, the power lift gate this doesn’t satisfy the appetite, then there’s
similar arrangements, the Sequoia doesn’t can be open or closed via remote control. collision driver and passenger seat-mounted
look like a cut and paste job. side- and side- curtain airbags as as standard
Meanwhile, there are no changes to the Driver gets a simplified dashboard with a equipment and roll-sensing side curtain air-
Sequoia’s overall length, width and height, modular instrument panel with hi-res Optitron bags that extend from the front seat to the
wheelbase, front and rear tracks which were back lighting and the addition of chrome rings third-row seat.
revised at the time the model introduction. somewhat breaks the monotony of the pre-
45
{Road Test}
46
{Road Test}
<< The Sequoia is the largest SUv currently sold under the Toyota
umbrella and is slightly larger than the eight-seater land Cruiser.
The 4wd system is different to the one in land Cruiser >>
47
{Preview}
U p p i n g t h e
entry l e v e l
48
{Preview}
T
he luxury sales race is tightening as the
German premium trio of Audi, BMW, and
Mercedes-Benz are fighting it out for
top honours. And despite the global economic
downturn, all three brands posted increased
year-to-year sales (over 2009): Audi climbed
19.1 per cent, Mercedes soared 15.2 per cent,
and BMW gained 14.1 per cent. Audi’s stellar
performance was prompted, in part, by strong
demand in China which has overtaken Germa-
ny as the brand’s most important market.
Now, Audi is looking at producing premium
cars in the B-segment as part of its horizontal
expansion in the line-up. And the carmaker
invited Overdrive and its sister publication
Saudi Auto for a quick spin and preview of the
A1, its smallest car a few weeks ago in Berlin,
Germany.
Well, we all know BMW with MINI, Fiat with
the 500 have been quite successful in the seg-
ment with these premium offerings. In fact,
BMW’s reincarnated MINI was the first ac-
knowledged model to be able to offer premi-
um quality, performance variants and bespoke
features – some of the key reasons for its suc-
cess with young urban customers. And it is
this segment of active prospects that Audi is
keen to tap with the A1, a vehicle that is spe-
cifically designed for the urban environment.
The A1 has been engineered to be very agile
and nimble in city traffic while offering a high
degree of everyday utility. And at the same
time it does meet the lifestyle aspirations with
the sporting S-line trims.
Taking the bullet proof platform of the Polo
as base material, Audi engineers and design-
ers have successfully redesigned and pack-
aged the car with core values of what the
brand is known for in less than four meters. At
first glance, the design and styling of the car
shows its personality being influenced by lot
of ideas and innovations from its concept
cars – the 2007 Audi A1 project Quattro in
particular.
While, Audi has taken a lot of ideas and in-
novations from the concept car and converted
them into series production, on no account
the A1 is a re-bodied Polo with Audi frills. The
front end bears an unmistakable family re-
semblance, but features unique accents and
detailing. The single-frame grille, for example,
is harmoniously integrated into the front end
and with its angled top corners represents
a new evolutionary stage. Its braces are ar-
ranged horizontally to emphasize the width of
49
{Preview}
50
{Preview}
<< with 0.32 coefficient of drag for the base model, the newest
audi has been optimized for super efficiency and fine-tuned at the
ingolstadt wind Tunnel Centre. The entire body has been - from the
rear spoiler, including the spoiler edges, to the underbody and the
wheels. The aerodynamic underbody largely covers the underbody,
protecting it and creating favorable aerodynamic air flow>>
51
{special feature}
electrifying!
mercedes-amg is readying an all-electric SlS for production within
four years and so is audi with the R8 e-tron. and strong indicators
suggest Toyota joining the elite group with the lF-a. Should start
up companies such as Tesla or Fisker be worried? automan
examines the possibilities.
| Author: Chandan B Mallik
52
{special feature}
A
s early as 2014 or ‘05, both Mercedes- ing from zero to 100km/h in four secs which
Benz and Audi are expected put their puts it almost on the same high level as the
respective electric supercars into com- SLS AMG with the 6.3-litre V8 engine, which
mercial production if the current pace of can hit km/h in 3.8secs.
development and investment in technology The SLS AMG E-CELL drive incorporates a
continues. There has been genuine interest liquid-cooled high-voltage lithium-ion battery
on part of supercar and sports car makers featuring a modular design with an energy
in developing cars that don’t bring in the content of 48kWh and a capacity of 40 Ah.
guilt of burning fossil fuels excessively or The maximum electric load potential of the
pollute the environment. Although, electric battery, which consists of 324 lithium-ion poly-
technology for propelling cars has been avail- mer cells, is 480 kW, which is an absolute best
able, but the challenge isn’t over yet for car- value in the automotive sector. Another techni-
makers looking for that perfect answer. And cal feature of this considerable performance is
though start-up companies such as Tesla and the intelligent parallel circuit of the individual
Fisker seem to be ahead in the game for now battery modules which helps to maximise the
with all-electric or extended range hybrids, the safety, reliability and service life of the battery.
gap between these players and mainstream The 400-volt battery is charged by means of
automotive brands will become narrower in targeted recuperation during braking whilst
the years to come. the car is being driven.
In the supercar category, the most promis- The transformation from petrol to electric
ing names come from Germany – with Audi super sports car also called for some specific
and Mercedes-Benz leading the show. Al- changes to the interior. As a result, the AMG
though BMW can be included in the technol- instrument cluster and centre console in par-
ogy equation, all three have been showcasing ticular both feature a new design. The new
interesting concepts and this leads us to the AMG instrument cluster provides information
concepts at last year’s Frankfurt show, where on speed, charge status of the battery and
Audi showcased the e-tron and Mercedes-Benz the estimated range. The newly designed cen-
AMG the electric version of the SLS called SLS tre console now houses a 25cm touchscreen,
eDrive. In common both feature an electric which driver and passenger can use to conve-
powertrains on an existing platform. While niently operate all of the audio, climate and
both have promised to offer green credentials, navigation functions, and also obtain informa-
but the big question will always be: will either tion on the flow of power from the four electric
be any good as their petrol counterparts? motors.
Mercedes-AMG is challenging the future The AMG Drive Unit, which is angled to-
with its SLS AMG E-CELL with the promise offer wards the driver, houses buttons for starting
exceptional performance. The project vehicle the motor, ESP® functions, the AMG memory
offers a power output of 392 kW and 880Nm function and the extendable front splitter and
of torque from its four synchronous electric rear spoiler. Using three new buttons, the driv-
motors which can spin as high as 12,000rpm. er can switch simply between P, R and D. The
As a result, compared with wheel-hub motors park setting is enabled automatically by switch-
the unsprung masses are sub- ing the electric motors off. Although, figures
stantially reduced. One trans- relating to full driving range on a single charge
mission per axle transmits haven’t been released, but David Coulthard,
the power. When it comes retired Formula One driver, who drove a pro-
to dynamics, the electrically- totype model recently, was taken by surprised
powered SLS AMG makes a with the car’s acceleration. Coulthard de-
statement with the E-Cell scribed it as: “instant, but smooth” and “way,
model capable of accelerat- way more than I expected.”
53
{special feature}
<< The audi e-tron Concept and its package A udi has been showcasing several techni-
cal solutions for a compact sports car with
all-electric drive. At the 2010 NAIAS in the
takes into account the specific realities of Detroit, the second electric concept vehicle
from the brand, the R8-based e-tron Concept
an electric vehicle. The car is able to freely was presented. Ingolstadt’s ace up the sleeve
is this all-electric R8 which is set to take on
distribute the powerful torque of its four anything from Tesla or any other ‘green’ su-
percar. As expected, there are no V10 engines
electric motors to the wheels as required here and the battery pack sits behind the pas-
senger cabin to optimise its centre of gravity,
and torque vectoring allows for dazzling thus achieving a 42:58 weight distribution.
Four electric motors drive the front and rear
dynamics and an undreamed-of level of axles, driving up to 70 per cent of power to
the rear wheels.
agility and precision when cornering>> The motors offer a total system output of
313hp and maximum torque of 4,500Nm.
These figures translate to a 0-100km/h sprint
time of 4.8secs, with a top speed of 200km/h
and a range of about 248km on full lithium-
ion power. Recharging the 213kg battery pack
at the back to full capacity requires six to
eight hours on a normal 220volt outlet, while
a 400volt plug will do the job in about two
and a half hours. While Tesla and Mercedes
rely heavily on carbon fibre composites, body
mass in the Audi is said to be 1,600kg, thanks
to the use of the company’s advanced space
frame aluminium technology and reinforced
plastic in the construction.
The first practical outing of the R8 e-Tron
was at the track at Le Mans on June 15, where
legendary Audi driver Frank Biela took the car
for a spin in the Le Mans vers le futur demo
event for EVs.
So who wins – Audi or Mercedes? On the
power output consideration with available de-
tails of chassis and handling, the SLS trumps
with its 526hp vs Audi’s 313hp. The goal of
the AMG for the electric SLS was to match the
acceleration of the petrol 563hp version. If
the SLS eDrive actually hits its claimed zero-
to-60 time of less than four seconds, it will
be a close match for its V8 sibling. However,
the top speed, although said to be in excess
of 125 mph, is still a far cry from the near
320km/h of the regular SLS.
Audi claims the 53-kilowatt-hour battery
pack powering the e-tron is good for a 154-
mile drive. However, the car uses only 42.4
kWh of its total output for propulsion, in order
to lengthen the life expectancy of the battery.
AMG haven’t released any other details relat-
ed to battery performance
54
{special feature}
55
{special feature}
56
{SPECIAL FEATURE ON TYRES}
57
{SPECIAL FEATURE ON TYRES}
58
Get twice as much when{SPECIAL
you FEATURE
subscribe
ON TYRES}
Pay RO 7/- * only per year and get 12 issues delivered to your
doorstep PLUS get year round membership of our web portal.
OR
Prove you mean business and we pay** for your subscription.
+
* RO 15/- for other GCC countries, RO 30/- for all other countries
** Free corporate subscription is offered at the sole discretion of Automan’s marketing department and is available only to
professionals connected to marketing, advertising and public relations in the automotive field
With the best reviews, best photographs and definitely the best value
Visit us online www.automanweb.com
60
{SPECIAL FEATURE ON TYRES}
PLAY
Watch all the best car videos
http://automanweb.com/automan-tv
61
{SPECIAL FEATURE ON TYRES}
62
{new product}
The all-new bridgestone Turanza gR-90 has been designed for motorists who want the
highest level of ride comfort, quality and safety in a replacement tyre.
63
{also driven}
64
{also driven}
Brand and model perspective assisted steering system. Key changes to the
Fusion on the safety front include front seat
The introduction of the mid-sized American airbags and side curtain.
Ford Fusion (code name CD338) based on
Ford’s CD3 platform [which also spawned the Choice of models
Mazda 6] in October 2005 as a 2006 model
was widely considered as a befitting replace- The Fusion is offered in S, SE and SEL trim
ment for the then temporarily discontinued levels. Front-wheel drive is standard on four-
Taurus. With its spacious cabin, responsive cylinder, while all-wheel drive is standard on
driving dynamics and attractive styling made the V6-powered SEL [not sold in the region].
it very competitive, but there were a few miss-
ing elements that prevented it from being a Interiors
true segment leader. Meanwhile, the Taurus
badge has been revived, so appropriately for The interior redesign is evolutionary, not
the model series the Fusion for 2010 has been revolutionary and the general shape and ar-
extensively revisited and given a new lease of rangement of the dash is very familiar while
life. the central console seems to be button happy.
The cabin sports a more contemporary theme
What’s new? with technical flair with metallic new finishes
on the instrument panel that carry through on
Although, the 2010 Fusion uses a carryover the centre console, doors and steering wheel.
platform from the 2009 model [originally de- The all new instrument panel is finished with
veloped for the Mazda 6 and modified for the soft touch plastics and the instrument panel
Fusion], hence it is not surprising that much displays and switches have also been updated
of the sheetmetal between the A- and C-pil- with a contemporary iced blue lighting. All key
lars continues unchanged. However, the front driver touch points have been improved.
and rear of the refreshed Fusion do receive The seats feel more body hugging than be-
considerable cosmetic changes. The design is fore as a result of the contours being revised
all-new and the Blue Oval’s corporate three- and the availability of more side bolstering.
bar chrome grille and chrome-trimmed intakes The seats also feature contrasting stitching
at the bottom of the valance dominate front and leather inserts. The ambient mood light-
end, which make the model much stylish and ing system offers the option of illuminating
trendier than the traditional segment leaders the front and rear footwells and front cup
from Asia -- Honda and Nissan in particular. At holders.
the rear while maintaining the same profile, There’s a good choice of equipment even
chrome exhaust tips, larger taillights with hon- the base trim. Package includes 16in alloy
eycomb inserts and a thicker centre-mounted wheels, cruise control, a telescoping steer-
stoplight are new. ing column and an auxiliary audio jack. Ford
This has helped the Fusion in getting a offers more features as trim levels move up
sporty character, which is unusual with family such as bigger wheels, power seats, leather
vehicles. Meanwhile, the interior has been up- upholstery, dual-zone climate control and
graded with a more modern design featuring heated seats. However, it’s the ergonomic and
Ford’s latest entertainment and climate con- aesthetic improvements over its predeces-
trols. The Duratec in-line four-cylinder engine sor which are now among the key highlights
has also been upgraded to displace 2.5-litres besides the upgraded stereos, a navigation
and now produces 175hp. Like its US-only system and the Sync electronics interface
bigger 3.0-litre V6 which offers 240hp, both system. The Sync system does a fine job in
get six-speed automatic transmission. integrating audio and Bluetooth functionality
Meanwhile, the suspension has also been with voice-recognition technology to provide
tweaked. The front stay bar and rear suspen- easy hands-free operation of cell phones and
sion link geometry have been revised to im- portable MP3 players. While the Fusion isn’t
prove steering, handling, and ride. The sus- the largest car in its class, a pair of adults will
pension springs, shocks, and stabilizer bars be content in rear with adequate head and
have also been re-tuned to take full advan- legroom.
tage of the revised geometry and new power
65
{also driven}
Driving impressions
One of the immediate changes evident in suspension tuning is still on the softer side, is adequate for city driving, but is still a bit
the driving and handling of this modded CD3 so hard cornering will not be as entertain- underpowered when it comes to initial accel-
platform which was stretched by 30mm in ing as in the sports tuned version which has eration or overtaking. And that’s where a six-
width and 55mm in length besides strength- a little more rebound damping that improves speed select-shift type of arrangement in the
ening it, and the suspension tweaks is that the responses without sacrificing much of its automatic gearbox comes in handy, but sadly
the car offers a more compliant ride now even smooth ride. On the other hand, the steering this feature is not available in the base model.
with the smaller engine. Dynamically, the re- is pretty good and overall the car was abso- But what is available as standard now is ABS
freshed Fusion will get our vote for the car to lutely devoid of nasty surprises. Although, and traction control.
be in when you’re stuck on rough roads. The performance from the base four-cylinder
Both front and rear ends have been revis- Class-exclusive technologies including a Displacement has gone up marginally in
ited. The incoming model is sharper, trendier blind spot detection warning system and Ford the four-cylinder engine, but it offers unsur-
and upscale. The car now looks lively and fits SYNC in the new car are among some of the passed fuel economy and more power, thanks
in very well with the new corporate styling. features. to the new six-speed gearbox.
66
{also driven}
Verdict
Traditionally, Fusions have attracted cus- new elements – such as looks, handling, per- to win over even more mid-size car customers
tomers in the region as a car that’s comfort- formance, equipment levels, interior trims and despite tough competition from models such
able, well-equipped and spacious family hauler. comfort elements – and in the process have as the Chevrolet Malibu, Honda Accord and
But the thoroughly refreshed for 2010 model given this American car a more contemporary Nissan Altima.
has addressed many problems from the old international feel without losing its core Amer-
car and even managed to add class-leading ican identity. The 2010 Ford Fusion is poised
67
{Road Test}
Right on target
68
{Road Test}
69
{Road Test}
70
{Road Test}
B
MW Group’s Z4 is currently in its second and has considerably softened the looks in
generation and combines classic several new models including the Z4. Despite
proportions with modern sportiness the lukewarm reaction, the first generation
values. The hard top which folds in the roadster coupe drew universal praise for its sleek lines
reinforces the fact once again that open when it was introduced in 2006.
top driving can be fun and rewarding if the The end result is a head turner Z4 without
ingredients are right. And this is where BMW any doubt. The Z4 hits the top spot as a
is exceptionally strong and it’s no coincidence perfectly profiled, designed and executed as a
that the new BMW Z4 has reached the top of roadster. It has got the classic proportions of
its market segment almost overnight since its the stretched bonnet and short overhangs to
2009 launch. begin with along with a low and wide stance.
So, what makes the Z4 so special that The shape is a modern evolution, and the
people who can afford to buy one find it simply interplay of striking contours and the softer
irresistible and wouldn’t consider anything crease lines on the body shell fully capture the
else? Does the Z4 simply connect the right character of this vehicle from its characteristic
points or do aficionados choose a Z4 based and trademark kidney grille to the exceptionally
solely on the badge/image, or just on merits powerful wheel arches at the rear.
of style? There’s something else we noticed. On the
We think that there’s much more than just sides of the front mudguards, the new cars
an emotional decision based on just the above sport a new nomenclature ‘sDrive’. According
mentioned elements. We think there exists a to current BMW nomenclature this refers to
segment of tech-savvy buyers out there who rear-wheel drive.
just appreciate performance, technology and The retractable hardtop is an engineering
aren’t really bothered with style. marvel which opens and closes graciously in 20
But what if the car had some or all of these secs. It folds in layers and thereby consumes a
ingredients, would it matter? Overdrive had lot of the precious boot space. But in concept,
the car for a couple of days and over time with it is a departure from any previous two-seater
it tried to learn the real reasons, from both an BMW. Effectively, the retractable hardtop
objective and emotional perspective. replaces the roadster and coupe versions
At first glance, it seems very clear that the of previous-generation pre-2009 Z4 models
design has matured significantly. I clearly with one do-everything model. While there’s
remember how much criticism the styling no soft top, it didn’t escape BMW product
of the first generation Z4 (both coupe and planners that many Mercedes SLK buyers had
roadster) generate in 2003. I also remember mentioned the folding hardtop as a pivotal
Chris Bangle, the then chief designer of the factor in their buying decision.
carmaker who defended his famous ‘flame Considering the aesthetics of the car top up
surface’ treatment which appeared to be or top down, we think the car definitely looks
sculpted for the sake of sculpting, and you better with the top down. But the mastery in
either liked it or you didn’t. As it happened, design shows up with the top up as it doesn’t
Bangle went on to gain notoriety for the seem to add the impression of excessive
edgy direction he’d taken BMW although mass. Top-up it has a similar closed profile to
commercially BMW was very successful during the stylish Mercedes-Benz SLR. The air vents
his tenure. behind the front wheels carry the badges
I am pretty sure the new Z4 was signed- and the side signal repeaters are now behind
off in Bangle’s presence, but under the new opaque panels in the vents. Although, the
design direction led by successor Adrian Von BMW logo is still here, but no longer serves to
Hooydonk. Hooydonk has been responsible disguise the signal.
for recent wave of BMW designs such as the A view from dead-on at either end the car has
6 Series and 7 Series, and his influence is also more than a passing resemblance to a scaled-
apparent in concept cars such as the Concept down version of the 6 Series or its roadster
CS and the M1 Homage design study. More precursor, the Z8. The design and detailing of
recently Hooydonk headed up the design the taillights appear to ramp up the bodylines
development of the latest 7 Series and Z4 and when the lights are burning. Adaptive brake
is responsible for streamlining the lines and lights deliver more red light when you hit the
curves in the line-up. It’s clear now that BMW brake pedal hard than when merely slowing
wants to revert back to its pre-Bangle-isation mildly. A single side twin-exhaust beckons its
71
{Road Test}
the 30i, while the 35i uses a single exhaust on There is plenty of space for two people in which now includes two small windows.
either side, similar to the Z8. the Z4, the head and legroom being about We drove the car in different terrains and
BMW’s trademark corona daytime running what you find in a full-size SUV. Standard checked out all the driving modes and their
lights adorn the model, but the package varies manual seats and tilt/telescoping steering respective differences via the controller switch
by model or trim levels. The 30i has black column provide enough adjustment to suit located on the base of the centre console.
vanes in its grille and a silver slash across the many driver sizes. Seats are sporty and offer The pre-sets allowed us to select from three
outer lower grilles, while the 35i has matte excellent support. While, storage space usually modes of driving seriousness ranging from
silver grille vanes and perimeter frames for has been the bane of roadster designers, but normal, sport and sport-plus. Well, these
the outer grilles. it seems particular attention was paid to that three modes are electronically activated and
Dimensionally, the Z4 is longer than the by BMW. The door pockets tilt out for access essentially a software tailors shift points and
Audi TT and Mercedes-Benz SLK, but it is and a bin ahead of the shifter offers usable speed, throttle response, steering boost and
shorter than the Porsche Boxster, its key rival. space and the cubby on top of the dash is suspension damping. As expected, there’s a
Although, the length difference is limited to a available in models without navigation. discernible tightening of reflexes when you
few inches, actually in height and width, all the Audio options include radio, glovebox- are inclined to use the Sport-Plus mode.
cars are much closer to each other. Although mounted six-disc DVD changer, iPod and USB Mind you, even in this mode, the Z4 doesn’t
the new car retains the old car’s wheelbase, it ports and a hi-fi system with 14 speakers. On become stiff like a truck or punish the driver
adds six inches to overall length, most of it in navigation-equipped cars much of the audio for activating it! Actually, the car is quite lively
the front end. control is done through the iDrive but common and hospitable in any mode. Yes, you do miss
The car’s cabin bear the hallmark requests can be handled by steering wheel the roll stiffness of the ‘M’-badged models and
features that is characteristic of a BMW. So buttons as well. On cars with iDrive there is I think that’s deliberate on part of BMW.
there’s nothing offensive or outrageous to an 80GB hard-drive that has 15GB allotted to Meanwhile, besides brisk acceleration,
cope with. There’s white-on-black analog music storage. the most noticeable immediate change in
instrumentation, sweeping driver-centric Safety features for the Z4 include frontal Sport-Plus mode is the amazingly swift and
lines, functional controls, and a high level of airbags, head/thorax side airbags in the seats, crackling shift action. The car’s electrically
fit and finish. The test car had two-tone red active knee protection, roll hoops, electronic powered steering feels quite different than
and black leather upholstery complemented stability, traction and braking controls, and other roadsters that we have driven recently,
with darkwood polished veneer trims. I liked tire-pressure monitoring. The only option that and it depends a lot on how and where the
the single row arrangement of the controls might be considered safety related is the Park car is being driven. Well, how much you like
ranging from the start-stop button and air-con Distance Control. In a brisk cruising mode, it feels smooth,
controls. Key instrument gauges for a change light and agile, but as you speed up and
have large dials and the digital displays in begin to push the car though fast sweepers
the centre of the binnacle displays useful Driving or quick transitions, it begins to change feel.
data such as exterior temperature, mileage, Our tester was equipped with the 255hp Like other Z4s we have driven before, it still
trip data among others. The multlimedia 3.0-litre normally aspirated in-line six with six lacks the precision and poise of a Boxster, but
iDrive has been revamped says BMW and speed automatic transmission with Tiptronic in terms of overall feel, there has definitely
the mechanical parking brake lever has been clutchless manual control. The manual part been marginal improvement, thanks a mildly
replaced with an electronic one. We also note can be operated either through the shifter or re-worked rack-and-pinion. And with equal
that several extra buttons have been added to steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. weight distribution on front and rear axles,
the controller to speed access and operation The first thing a driver will notice is that the Z4 is highly entertaining and fun to drive
is much more intuitive while maintaining the besides being cosseted in the seats, outward and just requires small corrections to hold a
myriad functions. It might not be the best visibility is very good. Although, the windscreen line, as if the car is not tracking smoothly, but
such system in modern automobiles but we is curved across the top and the A-pillars are that’s not really an issue out here.
think it should put an end to the criticism of long, it’s no impediment to vision. The blind Our handling on UAE’s mountain roads gave
earlier iDrive versions. spot is helped by the folding top’s design us more confidence with the car. It feels sure-
72
{Road Test}
Verdict
73
{Motorsports - F1}
I
t was a masterclass in controlled driving After Saturday’s ‘unique situation’, Webber excellent race – it was a flawless performance
from Mark Webber in this his 150th grand demonstrated some of his famed Aussie grit from him - and the team was fantastic in the
prix, after he overtook Sebastian off the to win this historic race: “The start was ideal,” pit stops. The most important thing is winning
line and lead until the chequered flag. he said. “When I got to the first corner I was this race in front of all the people who work so
In fact, the only person who did trouble him ahead and thought, ‘let’s get on with it’. It was hard to make the team what it is.”
all afternoon was his Red Bull Racing team- a special day and a lot of hard work has gone And Sebastian was also working hard from
mate, and even then it was only the first two in from the team – you don’t get results at this the back of the pack. Helped by a Safety Car
corners. level if you’re not putting the effort in. They which bunched up the cars in front, he was
Sebastian’s Lap 1 battle with Lewis Hamilton, deserve this. Yesterday was a unique situa- able to take on first the new teams before go-
who started third, left Vettel with a puncture tion, but I’m confident we can sort everything ing on to take some more established scalps.
and a place at the bottom of the timesheets. for the future.” “For the first 30 laps, I didn’t have much to
But as Mark was demonstrating the RB6’s pace And his team principal echoed those sen- do except going around trying to catch up,”
at the front, Sebastian was scything through timents. Christian said: “It’s fantastic to win said Seb. “But after the Safety Car I had some
the pack and finished seventh. in front of all the team today. Mark drove an people to fight and that was good fun, I was
74
{Motorsports - F1}
racing people like Felipe and Michael – it’s time and he came home in ninth place at the
always a good race here with a great atmo- chequered flag.
sphere.” Nico said in his post race interview, “I had
Hamilton followed Mark round to finish sec- a good start today and was happy to be up to
ond with Mercedes Nico Rosberg completing fourth place by the end of the first lap. Robert
the podium. was holding me up and with Fernando push-
Nico Rosberg achieved his third podium fin- ing hard behind, it wasn’t easy to maintain the
ish of the season at the British Grand Prix with place. Our strategy was really strong today so
an excellent drive from fifth position on the thanks to the guys on the pit wall for their ef-
grid to take third place at the MERCEDES GP forts and keeping me out on the options. I had
PETRONAS team’s home race at Silverstone. a great lap and with the quick pit stop, it was
After an early pit stop, Michael Schumacher enough to get me out ahead of Robert, and
was also looking in a strong position when a that made the podium possible.”
small mistake on his out lap cost him valuable
75
{Motorsports - F1}
76
{Motorsports - F1}
77
{Motorsports - wrc}
78
{Motorsports - wrc}
79
{Chicane}
Y
ou can’t spend a long time connected with the automotive industry without realising that
it stands apart from most other lines of business in the matter of passion. It’s easy to get
passionate about cars. Whether it is the seductive styling of cars or their power or indeed
the thrill that you get in watching 22 men go howling around a track at strictly illegal speeds in
order to prove that their ego is bigger than anyone else’, there is no escaping the element of
passion. On the other hand I would think it a bit difficult to get my pulse racing about coffee
beans, paint, mortgages and drilling for oil among a host of other vocations, though I am sure
that there are many who find their passion in these fields.
I am a firm believer that the field of design has contributed a lot to the presence of pas-
sion. As a school child I would sketch cars and other sundry automobiles in the margins of my
notebooks, with my teachers giving me a clip on my ears for my artistic efforts. It isn’t as if I
became a designer in later life, but the connection stayed on. When I look at a car I see it in
many guises; as an idea on the sketch pad, a scale representation that sets out critical ratios
like wheelbase, overhangs and height and even as a collage of parts. Yes, we all see what the
whole car looks like, but could you salivate over the strengths of a rear three-quarters view
over the profile representation? Car designers are my demi-gods in that they do a job that I
find impossible. They take four wheels, cabin space, engine, steering wheel, lights and other
accessories and manage to produce a unique model that sets itself apart from every other car
by just that little bit.
From the basis of that differentiation, we then get the move to homogenise design by vari-
ous categories. We get the ever prevalent family look of a brand or the adoption of styling cues
that appeal to a particular type of audience. How many of us ever cared that the height of a
Rolls-Royce Phantom was set at twice the size of the tyres? Or that the front was always higher
than the rear, like the prow of a ship? While it is difficult to see its use in the car, I am sure that
the golden ratio propounded by Da Vinci and his ilk finds application in the car as well. We even
recognise traits like sportiness or utility depending on the ratios between width and height that
the car presents to us.
When I know what goes into design, it becomes quite a crime to ask a designer the question
Raj Warrior is editor of Automan and has been in I put to Peter Schreyer of Audi and KIA fame. At what point in the design process does a car
the thick of the Automotive journalism field from gain the brand identity? Admittedly that was a cheeky one considering that my dinner table
the past 15 years. companions an I had just spent a considerable time finding the Audi cues in the KIA car be-
ing unveiled. I am sure that Peter’s job was not made any easier by the speed with which the
Want to comment or have your say? Korean brand was assimilating European overtones.
Email at raj@alroya.net.
Identify yourself or your message will be trashed Finally, despite all the objective analysis of design, good design is about subjectivity. You
and your id blocked either know that you like it or not. I have a long list of cars that you love or hate. There is no
middle ground in their case. But most cars suffer from ‘acceptable’ design, which serves the
purpose yet remains unremembered. Even established design houses have these cars on their
lists. From the mouth-watering appeal of the Ferrari 458 Italia you wouldn’t believe that the
same design house is responsible for the utilitarian Hyundai Matrix.
80