automan march 2011

8/7/2019 Automan March 2011

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editor-in-chiefMamma Al ta

AL roYA PreSS & PUBLiShinG

Po B: 343, Psal c 118

Al hay cmpl

Sulaa oma

emal: auma@alya.

Wbs: www.aumawb.m

eal :

tl: +968 24479888 e 300, fa: +968 24479889

cula :

tl: +968 2456 2360, fa: +968 2456 2194

PUBLiSher

ham Al ta am@alya.

editor & GM

raj Wa aj@alya.

execUtive editor

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co-ordinAtor

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deSiGn

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heAd of MArKetinG

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finAnce & AdMin

Abaam dal al@alya.

Printer

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tl: +968 2479 4167, 2479 8157

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2011

All al Auma magaz a

s wbs s pyg a may b pu

ay m wu w s

maagm AL roYA PreSS & PUBLiShinG

Auma aps usl lus al

maal, bu ss g publs ay su

maal. o publs, pyg ay

su maal wll s w AL roYA PreSS &

PUBLiShinG

A new direction for MotoringThis month, our team has done the test of the new Lexus CT200h. In itself the car is

an unassuming addition to the mainstream European hatchback segment. Even without

its hybrid engine, the type of car has a market in mainland Europe, though most of the

numbers are supported by some rather well-tuned diesel engines.

With its hybrid engine, the CT200h seeks to change some of the perceptions and gain

a fan following even with petrol as its main fuel. In Oman the car is advertised to offer

25kmpl. We guess its effective range will be greatly increased in many cases in urban

Europe, where inner city driving does require frequent starts and stops, which is where

the combination of stop and go engine and hybrid drive thrive.

However, outside select markets and in the GCC in particular, the clever hatchbacks

raison dtre seems to evaporate. Yes we all still appreciate 25kmpl, which is between

an 80 to 100% increase in fuel efciency. But in actual terms that would mean that a car

that did 60,000kms a year would save around 300 and some Rials in fuel costs. It is an

interesting amount, but would it make a difference to the typical luxury car buyer?

That is the equation car companies have to spearhead a concerted change in customer

behaviour, usually following a perceived shift in trends, often making the shift happen

overtly. How much of a chance does a non-luxury brand have when they bring costly new

technology to the market, like hybrid drives or even full-electric with range extenders?

There is the fear of pricing oneself out of the market with people ready to rationalise

staying with the costs of a known platform over the risks of sampling new technology at

their cost.

Governments need to step in where required to change the paradigm. History has

repeatedly proven that the bulk of populations are ready to follow the path of least

resistance. While hybrid drivetrains are but a stop-gap in the journey to real zero carbon

locomotion, they are likely to be with us for a couple of decades, helping to extend the

consumption and availability of fossil fuels well beyond when we thought possible.

Perhaps that would be reason enough for governments in the GCC to gently impel us

towards cars like the CT200h. One way would be to relax import duties on clean cars or

offer a waiver on registration fees, while increasing these for the gas guzzlers. It seems

odd, but there is no time like now to start developing a green conscience.


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544

MUSCLETALKDodgeextend

stheChallenger line-upfor

2011in the

regionwithapimpedupSR

T8 version. Automandecid

es

whether itshotorcoldby

spendingafewdayswithit

EDITORIAL NOMINEE

DODGE CHALLENGER

PERFORMANCE CAR

73

For 2011, the Range Rover Sport, Land

Rovers quintessential sports tourer

SUV gets a fresh dose of upgrades.

Automan checks out the refreshed

model in Oman

10710

k

NewsFrom across theregion and aroundthe world

6

36

28cover storyAll-new Dodge Chargerrevitalises the brand2011 Nissan GT-R VVIP

70curtaiN raiser30 top reasons to be inGeneva

44

506474

test Drive2011 Dodge ChallengerSRT82011 Lexus CT200h2011 Toyota Zelus2011 Range Rover Sport

20

braNDwatch

Low down on globalbrands

22exclusive2011 Hyundai Velosterprototype driven

8iNterviewFuture looking goodfor Ford

PreviewsKia Optima Kinetic2011 Honda OdysseyVW Touareg ConceptToyota F86 G

57586162

The next stage of the all-American revival is

well under way, with Chrysler Corporation

continuing its brand and model consolidation

strategy. AuthorRaj Warrior

37

Charger of the new

Dodge brigade

36

cover story 28

74 44

80chicaNeLooking at both sidesof profiling

10

QATAR MOTORSHOW

MOVING INTO

HIGH GEARHere are the key highlights from the show.

7

{ROAD TEST}

78

EDITORIAL NOMINEE

58 59

PREVIEW

TYLESTATEMENT

At least for now, it is beginning to get clearwhere Honda is heading with its productdirection. Although Honda has earned a

reputation for producing a fuel-efficient lineup of cars and crossovers, it is beginning tolook at models that have been its bedrock andalso cost effective to produce. As the risingyen is playing havoc with Japans carmakers,Honda is a little late in understanding that ithas to work out a global strategy for effectivemanufacturing. The Alabama, US-builtOdyssey tops the list of priorities and despitethe fact its not an all-new model but clearlymarks the next generation of one of Americasfavourite vans which is also available in theMiddle East. It seems that Honda wants toprove that these multipurpose vehicles arentjust plain Jane minivans anymore.

First revealed as concept in early 2010 atthe Chicago Auto Show, the production versionof the incoming fourth-generation HondaOdyssey has been thoroughly redesignedin almost every aesthetic and functionaldepartment over and under the skin. Newexterior features include revised front end withHID headlamps and new 18in alloy wheels.

Honda not only improved the safety ofthe Odyssey for 2011, but also made it morestylish. The incoming Odyssey gets morethan a token nip and tuck upgrade. The carnow sports and aggressive stance and sportylightning-bolt influenced waistline. Thisunique character line not only provides anexclusive appearance, but also adds increasedvisibility for third-row passengers. Meanwhile,it sits lower than before and it now also widerand longer which in turn gives it an athleticstance and Honda claim that the overallaerodynamic efficiency has improved by 5.5per cent.

While, comfort and poise on the road aretop class, Honda has set up the car to carryseven to eight adults in total or six adultsmore comfortably than any full-size SUV.New interior features add more conveniencefor families, while available entertainmenttechnology introduces high-definitionconnectivity and split-screen viewing. Thereseven a power tailgate to make loading andunloading cargo effortless. New for 2011, thepower sliding doors can now be opened withthe brakes on, without having to shift to Parkfirst as in the older car. Top spec models get aconventional rear-seat entertainment systemwhich uses a 16.2in widescreen that showsside-by-side images or one panorama and has650 watts driving 12 speakers in 5.1 surroundsystem.

The front-wheel drive only Odyssey isoffered with a single engine which is anormally-aspirated 248hp i-VTEC 3.5-litre

2928

{COVER STORY}

Refinedto thecorewith

anelement of bespoke lux

urythrown

in, is the 2011NissanGT-

R losingitshardcoresuper

carimage?

Automan investigatesthe

caseatAbuDhabisYas M

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track

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10MotorshowsSurprises at QatarMuscle power in Chicago 16


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ANNOU

NCING

!

HEEVE

NTTHA

T

WILLCH

ANGE

HOWY

OUVA

LUE

YOUR

CAR

YOUR CARS SEAL OF

EXCELLENCE!


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MORE THAN 250 MODELS, 40 BRANDS

15 CATEGORIES AND ONLY ONE

WINNER IN EACH CATEGORY!announces the thrills and prestige of its own Car of the Year awards. Withenough packed in to take you through the year and a unique format of selectionAutomans COTY awards will reward the best models on offer in Oman in 2011

13 Categories for Reader Voting

Additionally, our editors will also give two uniqueawards :

EDITORIAL NOMINEE

NAME OF THE CAR

CATEGORY

www.automanweb.com


8/84

6

regional news

Its no secret that Honda Motors saw itsnet prot for the last quarter of 2010 fallnearly 40 per cent from a year ago as theyens strength overshadowed cost-cutting

efforts and as demand in Japan slowed.

However, the automaker has lifted its full

year prot forecast to 530bn yen, up 97.5

per cent year-on-year with recovery seen

in the key US market where it also has

manufacturing plants for vehicles such as

the Odyssey and Pilot SUV.

First revealed as concept in early 2010

at the Chicago Auto Show, the production

version of the incoming fourth-generation

Honda Odyssey has been thoroughly

redesigned in almost every aesthetic andfunctional department over and under the

skin. The heavily re-engineered MPV is larger

and wider with a lowered rooine, and is being

promoted as a modern and trendy family

vehicle. So it isnt surprising that the incoming

Odyssey is all about functionality and making

the business for a family haul easier. It will

comfortably accommodate a family of four

and is loaded with conveniences to simplify

things. Honda says that for most purposes,

the Odyssey makes a more logical, more

compelling argument than a truck-based SUV

and many full-size crossovers. It weighs less,

offers better fuel economy, more passenger

and cargo room and greater exibility in howcargo space can be congured.

As before, powering the 2011 Odyssey is

an ultra efcient 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine

with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). To

conserve fuel when power requirements are

low, the VCM technology can allow the engine

to operate using only three or four of its six

cylinders as conditions permit. While ve-

speed automatic transmission is standard,

Touring models get a six-speed automatic. Six

airbags including three-row side curtains, and

electronic stability control are standard.

all-new revised 2011 Honda odyssey HitsgCC markets

seCond generation all-new Bmw X3arrives in middle east

F llowing on from its successful debut at the Parisotor S ow in Octo er 2010, t e a -new secongeneration BMW X3 oasting re esigne exterior

and interior has now arrived in the Middle East.

BMW says the new X3 enters a new era in driving

ynamics an innovative tec no ogy. T e new BMW

X3 is a versati e

ve ic e t at now

shares many

of the design

c aracter is t i cs

oun in ourhugely popular

X5 model. With

t e new sportier

esign, a itiona

s p a c i o u s n e s s

and innovative

technology that

inc u es t e

most ue e cient

engines in its c ass, we expect t is new mo e to

build on our successful X model story and contribute

to a fruitful year for us in 2011, says Reiner Braun,

irector of sales and marketing, BMW Group Middle

ast.

T e new X3 wi e o ere wit two new twin-

turbo six-cylinder engines mated to eight-speed

utomatic transmission. The top-of-the-range model

s t e xDrive 35i engine wit 306 p ena es t e car

to sprint rom

0 to 100

km/h in just

5.7 seconds.

T e c aime

average ueconsumption

is just 8.8

itres per 100

m an CO

e m i s s i o n s

of 204g p/

km making

t e X3 c ass-

ea ing in

terms o per ormance an ue e ciency. T e

maller engine will displace 2.8-litres.

GMCs Yukon SUV, one of the Middle Eastfavourites, took top honours in the full-sizeUV category o Inte iC oices 2011 Best Overa

Va ues o t e Year BOVY awar s, announce at

t is years Nationa Automo i e Dea ers Association

NADA) convention recently held in San Francisco.

This years IntelliChoice Best Overall Value honor

econ rms w at Consumer Gui e sai a out t e

Yu on ast year t at it s a est uy. T is awar

s a testament of GMCs leading position amongst

ts segment. We are always striving to increase

ro uct appea w i e pus ing or improve customer

atis action, sai Luay A S ura a Bran Manager

o GMC Mi e East.

nault is leading the way for small to medium

nterprises in Oman with their range of

economic and fuel friendly vehicles designed toaximise pro t an re uce running costs. Wit t e

a ition o t e Logan Pic up, Renau t now o ers

ore choice and exibility for enterprise owners

wanting to take advantage of our great range of

ve ic es, sai Atu Dagat, COO o Su ai Ba wan

Automo i es, t e so e importer an istri uter o

enau t ve ic es in Oman. Meanw i e, Renau t as

a brand has witnessed remarkable growth in the

u tanate. In 2010, we witnesse 103per cent

growt in comparison to 2009. T is re ects growing

consumer con ence not on y in Oman, ut across

the GCC and speaks to the trustworthiness and

eliability of the Renault brand, added Dagat. The

ing e ca Logan pic up as a pay oa capacity o

00 g an a cargo ay engt o 180cm, ma ingt attractive or en users in ig t in ustries, sma

usinesses and medium enterprises.

gmC yukon winsvalue award

renaultintroduCes newpiCkup for oman


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7

merCedes introduCes limitededition of g-Class for middle east

T e ongest-serving Merce es-Benz mo e seriesas enjoyed superstar status for some timeow. As a tribute to the extremely important and

oya customers in t is part o t e wor , Merce es-

enz as intro uce a specia mo e o t e G-C ass,

exc usive y esigne or t e Mi e East: t e G-C ass

Arabia 100 Limited Edition. Limited to 100 units and

ased on the Middle Eastern motoring heritage,

t is new mem er o t e G-C ass ami y convinces

wit its unique an exc usive esign, accor ing to

ts makers. For the GCC & Levant regions, the G

family currently has two engine variants: The long-

w ee ase G 500 w ic is equippe wit a power u

.5- itre V8 petro engine eve oping 388 p an t e

agship G 55 AMG which boasts a V8 supercharged

engine developing 507hp. Bond is back and this time he is sporting a brandnew car. In t e pages o Carte B anc e, t enew oo y Je ery Deaver, t e ctiona Britis

spy as continue wit is pre erre ran o

uxury sports car by selecting the breathtaking new

entley Continental GT as his transport of choice

Carte B anc e is ue to e pu is e y Ho er an

Stoug ton in t e UK, a ew ays e ore F emings

birthday, on 26 May. The book is half-set in Dubai,

which is where the author and the new Bond car

ave een spotte , outsi e t e Intercontinenta

ote in Du ai Festiva City. Bon s new Continenta

GT certain y suits is c aracter, wit a a e 6.0

itre, W12, twin-turbo engine capable of producing

567 bhp. On his visit to Dubai to launch the book

Je ery Deaver sai : I m rea y excite a out eing

ac in Du ai. It is an inspirationa an awe

inspiring city an ma es a per ect Bon ocation

especially for a novel that pushes our hero to new

extremes.

UAEs garden city Al Ain is growing as a tourismand commercial centre and currently haspopulation of about 350,000 which is expected to

grow to reach 476,000 by 2013. Meanwhile, Plan

Al Ain 2030, a blueprint for growth created by the

Abu Dhabi Planning Council in 2007, states that the

emirates population will treble by 2030 to reach

one million residents. And this is good news for car

rental companies. Hertz UAE has wasted no time in

setting up shop in Al Ain. The increased demand

from Hertz customers for great value and genuinequality service in the Al Ain area made the opening

of the new branch in the Sanaiya area crucial, says

Nigel Johnson, managing director of Hertz UAE.

Skoda, one of Volkwagen Audi Group brands isrelatively an unknown brand in the UAE. Andever since Ali & Sons Group secured sole dealership

rights for Skoda last year for UAE, things have

started moving. Meanwhile, Andrew Hellyar has

taken over as Skoda Autos Regional Brand Manager

for the UAE. Hellyar, who boasts over 21 years

experience marketing quality German brands, has

been a part of Ali & Sons for the past seven years.

I am delighted and privileged to be taking Skoda

to the next frontier. The brand has so much to offer

in terms of safety, quality and value, and we have

exciting plans to communicate the brands values to

the local market.

I ternational Heavy Equipment LLC, part of theZu air Automotive Group, oste t eir annuaro uct s ow in See . A comp ete range o truc s,

construction equipment, mac ineries an support

tools which are used in a number of industries

across the Sultanate were on display.

T e event was a so atten e y a num er o

representatives from companies such as Renault

Truc s, Vo vo Truc s, Putzmeister, LIBEHERR,

Bo cat, Hi orce, Par er- Stri er, D.L Ricci , H & S

too s. Customer representatives were provi e wit

help and advice by the highly experienced sales and

service teams on hand from International Heavy

Equipment LLC.

Owning a Jeep an eing a e to enjoy its a -roun capa i ities,

especially off-road prowess can be a tough job for a novice. But DhofarAutomotive, the ofcial retailers of Jeep products in Oman have changed that

otion y o ing its rst ran e event -- Jeep Jam oree Desert Crossing

a three day adventure through the Sharqiya Sands for Jeep owners in

t e Su tanate. T e event egan on t e e ge o t e esert near I ra an

nded two and a half days later on the coast at Ras Ruwais nearly 450km

outh of Muscat. We were delighted to be able to host our rst ever desert

rossing Jeep Jam oree or our customers w ic attracte a wi e range

f Jeep owners from families and newcomers to the Jeep families and

ore experience ong-term esert rivers. A esert crossing o t is nature

nd camping in the wild is something that can only be undertaken with

eticulous planning and also a high degree of commitment and enthusiasm

y a o t e participants, sai C ris E war s, GM at D o ar Automotive.

first Jeep JamBoree Held in oman

Bond given CarteBlanCHe to driveanotHer day inHis Bentley

Hertz eXpandsuae Business

new regionalHead for skoda

Heavy equipment eXHiBition Held in oman


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faCe to faCe

8

Blue ovalsets strong

foundation

for 2011

On the sidelines of the Environmental Grants awards in Muscat last

month, Automan caught up with Hussein Murad, regional director

for sales, Ford Middle East to know more about how the company

fared in 2010 and plans for 2011 in the region.


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How was the year 2010 for Ford and its brands?It was a great year. Ford posted a 28 per cent increase in its 2010vehicle sales across GCC markets versus 2009, buoyed by strongconsumer condence and increased preference towards Ford andLincoln products. 2010 was equally successful for Ford in the US, wherethe company posted a strong 1.935mn full-year sales in 2010, which

represents an increase of 19 per cent over 2009 and also marking thelargest increase of any full-line manufacturer. Market share increasedfor the second year in a row the companys rst back-to-back increasesince 1993. Ford posted the industrys highest growth rate in marketshare with a full percentage point, for the second consecutive year.

In the GCC region, which were your strong markets in 2010?We did quite well in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and UAE where we registered8, 10 and 6 per cent growth. Oman, Bahrain and Qatar also did welland these countries averaged 10 per cent or more.

What are your expectations for 2011?The company expects this trend to continue in 2011 with continuedgrowth in its regional market share. Our product line-up has beenrefreshed and we now have segment-leading products. Actually, Fordand Lincoln brands feature one of their most refreshed line-ups ever.Secondly, our dealer investments are helping growth for Ford acrossthe region.In terms of percentage, how much growth are you looking at?

In 2011, we expect to do 70-75,000 units. If dont achieve this target

this year, in 2012 we denitely will.What are the key highlights of the business plan for 2011 Denitelyto expand the business and continue to support our new franchises.We have appointed two dealers in Iraq and negotiating with the third.Qatar and Jordon also now has new dealerships representing Ford.

What are the other key achievements Ford has made?Actually, there are several which I can point out. According to a recentJ.D. Power and Associates 2010 Customer Retention Study, Ford

retained 62 per cent of its owners. We also took top honours in the 15thannual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards, presented at the AutomotiveNews World Congress in Detroit in January. Ford received awards inseveral categories, including: Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer; OverallLoyalty to Make; and Mid/Full-Size Pickup for its F-Series truck lineup,a repeat winner in the category. This year marks the rst time Ford haswon the Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer category since 1999, with aloyalty percentage of 61.8.Are you anticipating any effects on your business in view ofthe political uncertainties that are happening in the MiddleEast right now?Well, for us at the Middle East not really, since the affected areas arenot in our territory. Most of the countries we do business with are verystable economically and socially. Our dealers in markets such as UAE

and KSA are investing in expanding their networks and hiring people.

What would really attribute Fords success despite tougheconomic conditions?Id say, a large portion of the success should be accredited to a waveof new fuel-efcient, high quality models that we are now offering

But most of all, we have been able to demonstrate that we havetremendously improved our design, engineering, quality and reliabilityand value proposition over all. These factors combine illustrate theoutstanding response from consumers towards our latest products andthe technologies we offer.

In the coming months, what can the GCC markets look forwardto from Ford?As you know we are promoting our highly efcient Ecoboost technologiesin our product line-up. We already have three products with it and thethe fourth one, the Ecoboost Taurus is expected in 2-3 months. At theentry level, we have the new India-built Figo coming as well. We alsowill have the new generation Explorer soon. This means we now have abalanced and completely refreshed line of high-quality products acrossthe Ford and Lincoln brands and this gives us a solid foundation forcontinued growth in 2011. Consideration for Ford is increasing beyond

our traditional areas of strength signaling that the seeds of growthalready have taken hold, and this is further proof that we continue todeliver the products that our customers are looking for.

Many countries are now looking at hybrids and EVs. Why is

this trend not picking up in this region?As a car manufacturer, we have the technology and also the productsto support customer demand. The demand has to be generated rstbesides the cars are expensive to be sold in this region. Meanwhile,pure electric cars are not particularly suited to the Middle East climaticconditions in terms of performance. As of now there are no governmentsubsidies like in western countries or specic infrastructure availableThere is no business case for electric cars in the GCC yet due tothese.

9

Three Oman-based eco-programmes receive grants from Ford

Fords Environmental Grants totaling $1.1mn have beneted over 130 Middle Eastern environmental projects since its launch in 2000. For2011, the budget has been set at $100,000 and three Oman-based projects were awarded a total $29,000.An independent panel of nine jurors consisting of academics, as well as experts from environmental ministries and agencies choose thewinning projects that have demonstrated a well-dened sense of purpose; a commitment to maximising available resources and a reputationfor meeting objectives and delivering planned programmes and services.The Environment Society of Oman received $7,000 for its project focusing on community education in Masirah Island, the worlds largestLoggerhead Turtle rookery, Biosphere Expeditions which has projects designed at protection of the Arabian leopards in Dhofar region, receiveda $12,000 and it also received $10,000 for its project protecting the reefs of the Musandam peninsula.


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10

qatar motorsHow

Moving into

high gear


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11

Here are the key highlights from the show.


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Al Fardan, which also represents BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in the country had

six BMW mo e s inc u ing t e a -new BMW X3, BMW Z4, BMW X5M, X6M, BMW

ActiveHybrid 7 Series, and BMW 550 sedan. Highlight at the MINI display was the

a -new Countryman, w ic is t e ourt mo e to join t e MINI ami y an t e

rst ever MINI model to have four doors, four individual seats and an all-wheel

drive option.

BMW, MINI

12

qatar motorsHow

While Aston Martin has started delivering its new limited production One-77

supercars costing a cool 1.2m apiece, it still has a few unsold cars [around

13] in its inventory. Qatar seemed like an appropriate venue and it wasntsurprising to see the car which boasts of a whopping 7.3-litre, naturally

aspirated V12 engine, which produces in excess of 750bhp and more than

750Nm of torque.

As expected, Bentley Motors unveiled the new Bentley Continental GT, the Continental Flying

Spur and Mulsanne.

learly, the show belonged to the Germans especially Volkswagen Audi Group.

And its not surprising either. Qatar Holdings owns 17 per cent of the booming

Vo swagen Group, w ic ma es it t e t ir argest s are o er. T e secon

iggest shareholder is the German state of Lower Saxony whose Prime Ministerays t at VW is intereste in a ong term, goo re ations ip wit Qatar . Au i e

the show with a spectacular presentation comprising of no less than ve regional

remieres. Audi has a busy agenda for the year and it was evident at Qatar. With

t e new A7 Au i is targeting a new ve ic e c ass. T e arge, e egant ve- oor mo e

nites the emotion-packed character of a coupe with the comfort and prestige of a

e an an wit t e unctiona uti ity o a station wagon. T e new Au i A6 is set to

ake its market debut in the Middle East in mid 2011 with two V6 engines and the

ew A8 L W12 quattro will arrive in the region in the third quarter of 2011. Audi

so presente a imite -pro uction version o it R8 ig -per ormance sports car,

the R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-litre V10 has been increased to 560hp. The Audi

-tron Spy er concept car a so ma e an appearance as Mi e East premiere. T e

-tron Spyder study indicates Audis capabilities in the development of mobility

ystems o t e uture. It is a two-seater open sports car wit p ug-in y ri motor.

T e car is equippe wit a 300 p twin-tur o V6 TDI at t e rear ax e an twolectric motors producing a total of 64 kW at the front axle.

Aston Martin

Bentley

Audi

>


15/84

Al Fardan, which also represents BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in the country had

six BMW mo e s inc u ing t e a -new BMW X3, BMW Z4, BMW X5M, X6M, BMW

ActiveHybrid 7 Series, and BMW 550 sedan. Highlight at the MINI display was the

a -new Countryman, w ic is t e ourt mo e to join t e MINI ami y an t e

rst ever MINI model to have four doors, four individual seats and an all-wheel

drive option.

Ford and Lincoln

13

One of VAGs premium performance brands, Bugatti made some headlines

with their very rst appearance at the Qatar However, acionados who were

expecting the marques latest Super Sport to turn up at the venue were

slightly disappointed. But the presence of the blue and white open top 16.4Grand Sport, by far, the worlds fastest, most powerful and perhaps the most

exclusive car in its segment made up for the absence of the Super Sport

Like with the coupe version, the Grand Sport edition is powered by an 8-litre

W16 engine that develops a whopping 1,001hp at 6,000rpm. This car wi ll do

0 to 96km/h in an incredible 2.7secs. Top speed goes up to 406.4km/h, but

is reduced to 347km/h with the top down, obviously for safety reasons.

Chrysler Group brands -- Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep are in a new, dynamic, revitalised mode

and Qatar offered enough evidence of that. Giant strides that the Chrysler Group has made

in terms of design, quality, t and nish, specication levels and absolute functionality were

evident in the displays. The array of production or new or refreshed models included the

Chrysler 300C, Grand Voyager Limited, all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7 V8 Overland

and Wrangler with the Dodge Challenger and Ram 1500 Laramie.

But the big attraction for Jeep at the show was the Bling It Wrangler. Prepared or blinged

during the show by California-based MV Designz - this one-off customisation was carried out

for Qtels Virgin Mobile Service - amongst the vehicles many special features are a custom l ift

kit, cold air intake for increased power, custom wheels and tyres, high-spec audio system with

6.5in speakers and subwoofer, plus, completing the ultimate Wrangler, a specially designed

BBQ in the tailgate.

C evro et s ig ig ts at t e s ow inc u e t e re res e an vast y en ance

or 2011 C evro et Captiva SUV. T e car w ic is avai a e wit two powertrain

options -- a 169hp 2.4-litre ECOTEC with variable valve timing (VVT) and 264hp3.0- itre VVT V6 engine wit irect injection. A new interior, exterior, c assis

upgrades and addition to acoustic advancements. As expected, after its Middle

East e ut in A u D a i in Decem er, t e next regiona port o ca or t e a -

new Camaro converti e was ere. T e converti e wi e o ere in simi ar mo e

congurations as the Camaro Coupe and this means that the standard entry

eve mo e wi ave a 312 p 3.7- itre irect injection V6 engine an t e ig

performance SS badged model will get the 426hp 6.2-litre V8. Six-speed manual

transmission wi e stan ar w i e six-spee automatic transmission is optiona .

On t e truc si e, t e a rig t re an eavi y c rome awar winning C evro et

Silverado.

Keeping its promise to e iver Ca i ac an GMC per ormance, t e Mannai

Automotive Group featured the 2011 GMC Yukon Denali and Sierra Denali alongside

t e Ca i ac CTS Coupe, CTS-V Coupe, SRX, Esca a e P atinum, CTS Sport Se an,

t e XTS concept car at its stan .

Bugatti

Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep

General Motors, GMC, Cadillac and Chevrolet


16/84

Jaguar and Land Rover

ot ran s were represente y Sa e A Hama A Mana Company, t e exc usive

istributor for Nissan and Inniti in Qatar. The Patrol was displayed in two versions

(city and off-road) along with the Maxima and revised GT-R. Highlights of the

n niti stan were t e recent y aunc e 2011 In niti M se an an a -new 2011

nniti QX SUV which was launched only late last year in other regional markets.

Nissan and Infniti

14

qatar motorsHow

Lamborghini introduced a bright Aranico Borealis [orange] and black Gallardo

Bicolore. Exclusively tailored for Asian Pacic and European markets, the

560hp Bicolore comes with two tone nish in the exteriors and matching

colour treatments in the interiors. Lamborghini says that the roof of the car

will be available only in black, while several body colours such as Aranico

Borealis (Orange), Giallo Midas (Yellow), Binanco Monocerus (White),

Girigio Telesto (Grey) and Blu Caelum (Blue) are offered. The interiors are

leather wrapped with seats contrast stitching. The 15in spoke alloy wheels

are nished in titanium grey enamel and gloss black.

From a supercharged 5.4-litre V8 and 507hp on tap, by any measure the Mercedes-Benz G55

AMG is already a pretty outrageous SUV. But knowing the appetite of customers in the region,

Mercedes-Benz have obliged the loyalists by crafting a special Arabia Limited Edition model.

The modications are subtle, and mechanically, the G55 Arabia Edition is near identical to theregular G55 models. A ve-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with

locking the front, centre and rear differentials wraps up the package.

While top honchos from Porsche management were at hand introducing models and gauging

the general mood, it seems that German sports car maker is using the limited edition route

to promote some of its models and now its sedan, the Panamera, gets a special edition for

the region dubbed as the 4S Middle East Edition. To be produced in a limited quantity of 66,

features that highlight this is its Carrara White Metallic exterior paint shade and Carrera Red

leather interior. The Panamera 4S Middle East Edition is powered by Porsches 4.8-litre V8 that

puts out 400hp. It will also come with the Sport Chrono Plus package as standard.

Lamborghini

Mercedes-Benz

Porsche

A ar an Sports Motors, Maserati exc usive importer in Qatar aunc e t e state-

f-the-art Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale. The car is the fastest, sleekest, most

owerful and most agile car in the Maserati range in the region which is powered

y a 450 p 4.7- itre V8 engine t at o ers improve ue consumption gures over

the GranTurismo S. The Quattroporte Sport GTS was also on display.

Maserati

Alfardan Premier Motors Company, the exclusive importer of Land Rover and distributor of

Jaguar in Qatar put on s ow t e 2011 mo e s o Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, LR2 an

aguar XJ, XK and XF.

Bernhard Maier, executive vice president,sales and marketing of Porsche AG,introduces the Panamera 4S ExclusiveMiddle East Edition


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15

Roll-Royce Middle East and its local dealer Al Fardan used the venue to

celebrate their success in 2010. The dealership had on display a specially

commissioned two-tone Phantom which is said to be heavily inspired by the

design and craftsmanship of numerous architectural structures in the MiddleEast, including the world renowned Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. The

bespoke Phantom commission embodies a distinguishing motif of ordered

repetition, radiating structures and rhythmic metric patterns. The Sandstone

metallic exterior paint colour symbolises the natural stone that many ancien

and modern day Arabic constructions. The second car featuring Arabian Blue

Metallic exterior paint was developed specically for the Middle East.

By far, one of the most fascinating stands at the show was that of Volkswagen.

In terms of content and presentation. First theres the road-going version of the

Race Touareg 3, t e car t e recent y won t e 2011 Da ar Ra y, an secon car

that caught a lot of attraction, particularly from the locals was a 24-carat goldp ate Touareg. A t oug , ot t ese cars were presente as concept mo e s or

now, but they might become a reality if theres a demand. VW claims that it can

a so ma e t at Race Touareg in imite num ers. T e Race Touareg is powere

y a 300 p tur o iese V6 a so use in t e Da ar winning car . T e XL1 concept

car from Volkswagen showcased uses a 800cc diesel-electric plug-in hybrid that

returns an impressive 313mpg on t e com ine cyc e an CO2 emissions o just

24g/km.

Rolls-Royce

Volkswagen

How the Italian designers stole the show


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16

Read on

CHiCago motor sHow}

Muscle power rules!Although much smaller than Detroit, the Chicago Motor Show sent some very strong messages to the industry and consumers alike


19/84

17

GMs volume brand Chevrolet has anaggressive marketing strategy forthe Camaro. In fact, it will be rollingout a new special edition Camaro everysix months to help keep the nameplateconsistently fresh and exploit its heritageas a performance model. Chevy has nallypulled the sheet off the high-performanceCamaro. Contrary to expectations that aCamaro with Z/28 badging would surfaceat Chicago, Chevrolet didnt disappointCamaro acionados after it unveiled the newCamaro ZL1 package instead. The Camaro

ZL1 is being touted as the fastest Camaroever offered by Chevrolet and comes withtrack-ready credentials such as 550hpsupercharged 6.2-litre V8, a twin-clutch six-speed manual, magneto-rheological shocks,14.6in brakes, technologically advancedand highly developed chassis all geared tocomplement the cars high performance andhandling demands.The ZL1 name is derived from the all-aluminium racing engine of the same name,which was developed in the late 1960sand installed into a handful of regular-

production 1969 Camaros. Although 69 carswere built with this engine, theyve earneda remarkable cult status among enthusiastsas they represented the peak in Camaroperformance until now.The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to rewriteCamaro history by bringing a new level ofperformance capability to the segmentObviously, the goal of the cars developmentis to reach optimal lap times on top road-racing circuits and also offer excellentdriving dynamics on the street.

Breaking news

evro et wi e ui ing 500 units o t e Camaro SS converti e In y 500 pace car t is spring an t e ZL1 Camaro. A imitedition 2012 Camaro Transformers model is also expected, one that will tie in with the new Transformers lm, Transformers: Darkf the Moon, which opens this July. The V6 Camaro Synergy too will make its return in the spring.

>

Chevrolet


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18

CHiCago motor sHow}

Shelby pulled the wraps off the 2012 Shelby GT350. For the rst time since 1970,customers are being offered a tuner package in a convertible version. Planned as alimited series, production of the GT350 will be limited to 350 units. Shelby will carry

over some of the basic hardware package from the 2011 GT350 and engine choices willinclude a normally aspirated 430hp V8 as well as supercharged variants that deliver 525hpand 624hp, respectively.

Ralph Gilles, president and CEOof Dodge is pretty serious aboutthe brand and especially variant

carrying the R/T badges. Gilles unveiledthe entire new R/T Dodge line-up at theshow. Meanwhile, the in-house tunerperformance subbrand SRT also hadsomething to say. Topping the list wasthe high-performance and redesigned2012 Charger SRT8. Gilles, who has adesign background recognizes that notevery customer wants tons of chromeon the exterior of a vehicle and hencedecided to tone down the bling factor

in this car. The model is distinguishedfrom its normal siblings by a high-glossblack grille, aggressive side skirts, a dualexhaust system and 20in alloys. Inside,theres a at-bottomed steering wheel,sport seats with perforated suede inserts,

imitation carbon bre and aluminiumtrims. Under the bonnet, power comesfrom a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 with 465hp and630Nm of torque. It is connected to ave-speed automatic transmission withpaddle-shifters on the steering wheel.Meanwhile, the most interesting featureof the SRT8 is a data logging screen onthe infotainment system that takes all thevehicle performance information the cartypically gathers and displays it to thedriver or passengers. These PerformancePages are designed to display 0-100km/htimes, quarter mile acceleration or the G

forces.Meanwhile, a sinister looking ChallengerSRT8 with a new and exclusive GreenWith Envy paint scheme, full-body blackstripes and 20in wheels and race-inspiredinterior featuring standard SRT-branded

seats in Dark Slate Nappa Leather withGreen With Envy accent bands in frontand rear. Pumping out 470hp, the new6.4-litre V8 HEMI engine in the SRTproduct lineup provides additional torqueat 2,900 rpm compared with the previousengine. An active intake manifold andhigh-lift camshaft with cam phasingprovides maximum low-end torque whileoptimizing high-end power.

In the SUV segment, Dodge presenteda new entry level variant of the all-new2011 Durango SUV. The USP beingaffordable performance package, the

Dodge Durango Heat is mechanicallybased on its R/T version, but is deliveredwith aggressive styling and 3.6-litrePentastar V6 engine.

Chryslers marketing strategyfor Ram trucks is part of thecompanys plan to catch up

with key rivals Ford and GeneralMotors. It also reects a generalturn in the US light-truck business

away from marketing compact ormid-size pick-up trucks to entry-levelbuyers. The 2011 Ram Tradesmanis an entry level model aimed atcontractors or small businesses. Thenew truck has a standard Hemi V8engine with 390hp.

ram

Shelby

DoDge


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19

Hyundai and Rhys Millen Racing

have pulled the wraps off the newVeloster rally coupe at the Chicago

Auto Show. Built from the ground up, therally Veloster is powered by a turbochargedfour-cylinder engine that produces 500hpand 813Nm of torque. It sends power to theground via an Xtrac six-speed sequentialtransmission and an all-wheel drive system.The car also uses a stitch-welded chassis,low weight and high strength carbonkevlar body panels and comes with customsuspension, a race-spec interior, and 18inHRE wheels. A total of three rally Velosterswill be built and they will compete in the USRallycross Championship (2WD/AWD) and

the Summer X Games.

The second car that caught our attentionwas the Genesis sedan which has beenrefreshed with a number of minor changes.Key identiable features include modiedbumpers, a revised grille, aggressive sideskirts, and brushed aluminium windowtrim. Elsewhere, there are new headlamps,LED daytime running lights, and restyledtaillamps.

But the bigger news is actually underthe bonnet. The entry-level 3.8-litre V6 hasbeen given a higher compression ratio whichenables it to produce 333hp and 394Nm oftorque [an improvement of 43hp and 37Nmrespectively]. Meanwhile, the 4.6-litre V8

rewards drivers with 385hp and 439Nm of

torque, and now theres a new R-Spec whichuses a bored out a 5.0-litre V8 developing429hp and 509Nm of torque.

Regardless of what engine is selected,all models are equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission, beeebrakes, and a retuned suspension with alarger rear stabilizer bar. Additionally, theaforementioned R-Spec model also hasa sport-tuned suspension, a recalibratedsteering system, dark chrome exterioaccents, and exclusive 19-inch alloywheels.

Volkswagen took the wraps off the US-spec 2012 Jetta GLI. VW describes the car as the most differentiated GLI ever made. Comparedto the European version, this car features modied bumpers, a honeycomb grille, smoked taillights, a dual exhaust system, and 17in

alloy wheels. For the US markets, three trim levels will be offered. The entry-level comes equipped with sport seats, a at-bottomsteering wheel, aluminium trim, and alloy pedals. Moving up to the GLI Autobahn adds a sunroof, dual zone climate control and 18in alloysPower comes from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 200hp and 280Nm of torque mated to a six-speed manuatransmission. A six-speed DSG automatic is also available for this car.

Lexus brought a bit of Las Vegas to the Windy City with a modded version of thecompanys CT 200h hybrid hatchback. Tuned by the go-fast specialists Five Axis, thecar wears a custom widebody kit, unique paint and a lower suspension courtesy of

Tein.

>

hyunDai

volkSwagen

lexuS


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UK-based and Indias Tata Motors owned Jaguar isall set with its own business plans which coversactivity for the next 12 years. Of course, much of the

eventual offerings will be determined by factors such

as legislation, emissions, fuel efciency, hybridization

and other applications of technologies. Whats

immediate on the palate and effective later this year is

an updated version of the XK sports car. Following this

in mid-2012, Jaguar will launch a refreshed version of

the XF, along with a long-rumoured wagon variant.

The XF wagon will likely be reserved for the European

market. At the tail end of 2012 Jaguar will launch a

smaller XE sports car to slot beneath the XK. Although

earlier reports suggested the smaller sports car could

employ a mid-engine layout, it appears Jag will go

with a shortened version of the XKs platform to save

costs. In early 2013 Jaguar will release an updated

version of the XJ sedan followed by an all-new XK.

3

Roadmap to JaguaRs futuRe vehicle line-up leaked

2020

BrandwatCH

Fiat, which was hoping to make a big entry inRussias domestic market and boost its overallgrowth found itself licking its wounds after a proposed

Euro 2.4bn joint venture with Sollers didnt materialize.

Instead the Russian carmaker formally announced a

new joint venture project with Ford. The Fiat-Sollers

joint venture announced 13 months ago and calledfor the production of 500,000 vehicles in Russia by

2016. This proposal surfaced after a previous plan to

acquire a stake in the countrys largest automaker,

Avtovaz, fell through when the Italian rm was

outbid by its French rival, Renault. Had things gone

the Fiat way, nine new models representing C- and

D-segments as well as SUVs would have been sold on

the Russian market with up to six being produced on

a new global Fiat-Chrysler platform. Last Decemberin an investor presentation Fiat said it planned to sell

280,000 vehicles a year in Russia by 2014.

2

fiat fRozen out in Russia

After years of speculation, BMW has nallyannounced plans to introduce their new sub-brand. To be known as BMW I, the new sub-brand will

focus on developing sustainable mobility solutions.

Its a new day in our industry; a new era for individual

mobility. This is BMW i Born Electric. said Ian

Robertson, member of the Board of Management of

BMW AG responsible for sales and marketing. In a rst

move, two models will be launched under the new sub-

brand from 2013 the BMW i3 and BMW i8. The BMW

Group will also expand its range of mobility services

over the years ahead. To achieve this, a Venture

Capital company was founded in New York City, BMW

i Ventures, with an investment totaling up to $100mn.

An additional range of mobility services wil l also be an

integral component of BMW I programme. This will

allow the creation of a new, protable area of business

over the long term and attract new customers to the

companys brands. In addition to services developed

in-house, the BMW Group is pursuing collaborations

with partner companies and exploring strategic capital

investments in providers of mobility services.

4

BmW foRmally intRoduces a neW suB BRand

Is the new tagline for the Chrysler brand. In the US,traditionally, sponsors reveal their advertising plansat Sundays famous Super Bowl event, but Chrysler

remained tight lipped to create a stronger impact for

the reveal of their new ad campaign. Featuring famous

Detroiter and rapper Eminem, the brands new spot,

Born of Fire, featured the all-new 2011 Chrysler 200

and also revealed the brands new tagline, Imported

from Detroit. Super Bowl advertising is about

making a statement and capturing the attention of the

audience, said Olivier Francois, President and CEO,

Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing,

Chrysler Group LLC.Born of Fire is designed to

generate conversation about the brand and the new

2011 Chrysler 200. The spot reects where the brand

is headed and pays tribute to our industrial roots.

5

impoRted fRom detRoit

sigh of Relief foR toyota

In 2009, a rash of unintended acceleration claimsinvolving Toyota vehicles caused the manufacturerto set up something similar to a rapid action force to

cope with the problem. Toyota rst issued a safety

advisory acknowledging the issue, however, negativemedia coverage put the problem in the spotlight. The

National Highway Trafc Safety Administration was

never able to substantiate any such claims, even after

conducting multiple investigations. Not satised, the

Department of Transportation called in experts from

the countrys space program NASA to also investigate.

After extensive testing, NASA engineers have clearedthe company of any electronic aws in its vehicle

software.1


23/84

ow that Dodge and Ram are separate groups under

t e C rys er LLC um re a, Do ge as p ans to p ase

out its trademark cross-hair grille from its product

ineup. A t oug , t e cross- air nose wi remain

a part of the Ram truck line-up for a while, Dodgevehicles will get a new identity that has not yet been

evea e . Ra p Gi es, Do ge CEO an C ie Designer

or t e C rys er Group, recent y spo e to journa ists

out t is ecision. Gi es state t at t is move wi

take time but the products will evolve and go in a

i erent irection. In ot er wor s, no matter w at

irection Dodge takes its for its styling, we can expectt e new app ication as ear y as next year.6

212121

Ferrari is fast and Ford is furious with the fact that theModena Italy-based supercar maker has dubbedts Formu a One race car t e F150. Ferrari says t is

was done in celebration of the 150th anniversary of

ta y s uni cation, ut o s at For are unimpresse .

n fact, Ford has led a trademark case against Ferrari

n this respect. In its petition, Ford claims that Ferraris

se o t e name cou create con usion wit For s

-150 truc . Accor ing to Ferrari, it e ieves t at its

wn contender in the forthcoming F1 championship

annot e con use wit ot er types o commercia y

vailable vehicle of any sort whatsoever, nor can it

ive t e impression t at t ere is a in to anot er

rand of road-going vehicle. Ferrari has decided to

ename the car as Ferrari F150th Italia. Ford has yet

to respon to Ferrari s statement or rop t e awsuit.

10

the fast and the fuRious

I Fiat was un uc y in its attempt in rea ing intohe Russian market with a local partner, Generalotors is a coup e o steps a ea in t is respect.

M has conrmed that it has struck a deal with

ussias GAZ and the joint venture will see Chevrolet

Aveo su compacts assem e at one o t e Russian

utomakers plants. The move will help GM keepace wit eman in t e rapi y-growing Russian

ar et. Un i e C ina, Russia oes not require oreign

ompanies to operate within its borders with a

artner, ut many automa ers n t at t ey nee

ocal expertise to build vehicles in the large country.

roduction should begin in about a year and GMs dea

it GAZ as no a ect on t e Russian automa ers

talks with Volkswagen.

7

gm paRtneRs With gaz

ile the Jaguar Land Rover venture of Tata

otors is ouris ing, Tata Motors ot er venture

with Italian carmaker Fiat has not been up to

expectations. As a resu t, Tata Motors is re rawing

distribution plans of its joint venture with Fiat in an

attempt to boost sagging sales. As part of the revised

usiness p an, Fiat wi now ave its own in epen ent

rand showrooms, although it will continue to sell cars

t roug Tata Motors s owrooms. We are oo ing at

ways to improve t e sa es num ers. We are not w ere

we want to be [of Fiat branded cars]. We are redrawing

the plans to boost the sales, said R Ramakrishnan,

Tata Motors Vice Presi ent, Commercia -Passenge

Car Business Unit.

It may e reca e t at as part o a 50:50 joint venture

agreement signed in 2007, the two companies had

agreed to a joint distribution network and back-end

support esi es co-manu acturing o pro ucts. Year

on-year [April 2010-January 2011], Fiat sales were

own y 12.03 per cent. To improve t e image o

iat, there are plans to open image brand centres in

elhi and Pune soon.

9

fiat-tata Joint ventuRe on shaky gRound

A ot er car company w ic as receive a i e- inefrom India is now ready for action. South Koreaased SsangYong is set for a major revival with at

east two more new mo e s a set to join t e recent y

ntroduced all-new Korando compact SUV. Plans for

a so t an me ium-size SUV ave een oc e in

while a small sedan and hatchback and a Toyota

and Cruiser-sized four-wheel drive are also on the

car s i t e new owner Ma in ra an Ma in ra, tic s

t e oxes or esigns t at are a rea y waiting on

the shelf in Seoul. The transition of SsangYong from

court controlled receivership to Mahindra ownership

s sc e u e or next mont , as a p ayer wit g o a

ambitions, what goes in favour of the plan is that

a in ra wi not ave to invest in creating pro uction

capacity. Ssanyongs South Korean factory, which has

an annualized capacity of 250,000 units is currently

n eruti ize .

8

Back in Business

Ram to Be pushed


24/8422

A stAr is bornw hnd n ng md

nd m -d 2012 v

p, amn, ng p-

pdn m n-- d

gng n p p n

gn

Author Photographs

eXClusive road test


25/8423

In prole, the car features Fluidic Sculpture, muscular hunches,wraparound headlights and taillights. Rear end design has a dis-tinctive glass hatch, centre mount dual chrome exhaust tips andlower valence complementing the assertive front.


26/8424

eXClusive road test

w v, d n dgn pdgm

s Kn nd

T e passenger-si e rear oor an e

s hidden to maintain the coupe

design. Hyundais approach employs

a conventiona y inge oor on t e

assenger si e provi ing sa e an

eady access to the rear.

One of the displays unique features

s an Eco Coach scoring system. This

ystem acknowledges fuel-efcient

riving with an eco rewards score

nd it accumulates points over time

or a total Eco Score.

Ve oster wi e o ere wit an

xceptiona eve o stan ar sa ety

features for the sporty car segment.

Vehicle stability management system

w ic optima y manages e ectronic

ta i ity contro an t e e ectric power

teering are actore in.

e a -new Gamma 1.6- itre our-

ylinder engine is the smallest Hyundai

ngine to use direct Injection technology

w ic e ps e iver estimate ig way

ue economy o up to 40 mpg, ower

missions and higher reliability.


27/8425

t Gmm ngn pd ndd -pd

mn nmn n -n, -pd d-

nmn dpd hnd

epen ing on trim eve s, Ve oster

rivers will access and manage their

usic through licensed cover art,

n ance voice recognition capa i ities

n More Li e T is automatic

laylisting.

Proo o t e pu ing t at t is is t e

rst ofcial prototype undergoing

tests.

e innovative esign o ers surprising y

pacious rear seats.


28/84

Automans take:

Automans take:

Automans take:

Automans take:

{Headlines}

26

reNault aND NissaN Not to MerGe

astoN MartiN coNsiDeriNG straiGht-six eNGiNes

Automans take:

Daihatsu to sell

yaris as charaDe

New features for bMw 650i coNvertible

beNtleys recorD feat oN ice


29/84

ferrari Posts excePtioNal busiNess results

Automans take:

Automans take:

Automans take:

Automans take:

27

Automans take:

risiNG yeN causes havoc

MclareN MP 12c 2011 ProDuctioN solD out

sPyKer hives off

luxury car busiNess

Ducati-aMG PartNershiP DoiNG well


30/84

t n g -amn nd , c cpn

nnng nd nd md ndn

g. AuthorRaj Warrior

Charger of the newDodge brigade

28


31/84

29


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30

We were in San Diego last month todrive some of the latest examples ofrevamped models from the Dodge

line-upThe Chrysler Corporation cannot be said to

be a stranger to controversy. The Pentastarcompany has been through tough times

before, albeit a couple of decades ago, whenLee Iacocca and the US Congress in betweenthem managed to steer the company out of arather sticky situation. Unfortunately, the moodthis time around, on the back of the collapseof the American automotive industry wascompletely different. After a rather one-sidedpartnership with Daimler and some time as aninvestment vessel, the now bankrupt Chryslerwent into the Fiat fold. For the manufacturerof such iconic cars as the Wrangler, Chargerand Voyager, it is a far cry from its heydaysand I have been one of the sceptics regardingthe long-term viability of this inter-continentallove affair. I particularly remember a pithyremark I had made regarding the marriagebeing one of unequals.

However, whatever the reasons for the tie-up, it is now going strong. Chrysler gives Fiata long-awaited foothold in the US market anda slew of large car and SUV platforms, whileFiat will give the Pentastar its much neededsmaller car offerings as well as a large rangeof frugal small petrol engines and revampits backend platforms like manufacturing,quality control and sourcing. The long-termrelationship seems off to a good beginning forChrysler at least. We have seen the launchof the new Grand Cherokee happen last year,

while this year seems to have started on anequally refreshing note for the Chrysler andDodge brands. I cant remember the last timewhen so many things have been happening inChrysler Corporation in quick succession.

We had own out to San Diego toparticipate in the global media preview ofthe latest offerings from both Chrysler andDodge. The main offering from Chrysler forglobal audiences is the completely refreshed300 or 300C, depending on whether it getsthe Hemi engine. Dodge on the other handhad a much larger stable of offerings out ondisplay of special import being the newCharger, the Challenger with its 392 cu.inch

engine, the all-new Durango and the DodgeJourney.

San Diego was a good choice as the venueto host the event. Home to the US NavysPacic Fleet, movie lovers would also know itas the location of the Miramar Top Gun Schoolwhere Tom Cruise earned his Maverick tag.However in terms of reaching there, it is atthe other end of an excruciating long ightthat takes you from Dubai to the North Pole


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31

The Challenger SRT8 392

The legend of the Hemi is as much Americanaas it is Chrysler lore. The domed compressionchamber has been used on various sizes ofV8 engines through the years before therst wave of oil price shocks in the early 70ssent consumers scrambling for smaller cars.In more recent years the push-rod Hemi hasseen something of a comeback on the backof advanced engine management and cleverengineering. Nonetheless, it is the continuinglove affair of die-hard V8-lovers in the UnitedStates and to some degree even here in theGCC region where fuel is cheaper than water.

So then why stop with the Hemi when youcan have the real Hemi? The 392 traces itsroots back to the racing heritage of Dodge.The original Hemi 392 was released in the

1957 model year and replaced the 354 Hemiin some models, but was quickly adopted in

motor racing and on drag strips. Now, aftermore than a half-century, the circumstancesare substantially different. The 392 comes in toset the dening standard on the performanceend of the mainstream models, starting withthe Challenger. The larger 6.4-litre unit nowhas a claimed 470 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque and this adds signicantly to thetorque available to manoeuvre the car aroundthe skidpad. An active intake manifold andhigh-lift camshaft with cam phasing providesmaximum low-end torque while optimizinghigh-end power.

The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 isavailable with either the standard ve-speed

automatic transmission with Auto Stick or anavailable Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manualtransmission that was rst offered on the2008 Dodge Viper SRT10. An improved heavy-duty clutch provides easier shift engagement.Additionally, for modern day concerns, thecars tted with the auto gearbox get the abilityto go into eco mode. Fuel Saver technologyin automatic transmission equipped models,allows the engine to operate economically onfour cylinders or use all eight cylinders whenneeded.

Under the hood, unique valve coverswith painted silver ribs and the 392 HEMIlogo give the HEMI powerplant a clean, yet

aggressive look. A redesigned SRT-tunedexhaust system results in a deeper, throatiernote that will surely create envious onlookersboth during daily commutes and at the racetrack.

To mark the return of the 392, Dodge will beinitially offering a limited run as an Inauguraledition. Of 1492 cars planned, 1100 will besold in the US, while 392 will be offered inCanada.


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{Cover story}

Dodge Journey

In what seems to be the best move in terms of modelconsolidation the Dodge Journey has stepped in totake the place of the 5-seater SUV in the line-up. Whilenot quite replacing the Nitros position, it looks like theJourney will be the preferred SUV in the range and isset to be sold in the GCC region in a few months.

At this point there seems to be a sort of dichotomyin what Chryslers positioning on the Journey is goingto be for non-US markets. The Journey is essentially acrossover between the Minivan segment that Chryslerhas such mastery over and the traditional SUV. TheJC49 platform has a degree of commonality with theAvenger, but has such innovations as stowaway bins atthe second row oor. Built in the companys Mexico plant,the car is set to be phased out of European marketsnext year, to be replaced by the Fiat version called theFreemont. However, if the GCC introduction begins thisyear, expect the model to continue for quite some timein the region. One can see the strategy evolving from

Fiats almost non-presence in the region.The car itself is available with a choice of engines,though for the GCC, it is likely to be powered only bythe new Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 engine. This engineis going to be the mainstay of the line-up across thethree main brands of the company and has gained agood reputation in the time it has been available withthe Jeep Grand Cherokee.

In most other terms the refreshed Journey carriesstyling that connects it with the increasingly Europeaninuences of the new design direction, ve surprisinglyadaptable seats with the option of a second row withbolster support for kids and even a version that offersa small utilitarian third-row. We hope this isnt on offerin the region, what with the bigger and better Durango

coming here.


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The all-new Dodge Durango

This is the model that Dodge is pinning its hopes on inthe GCC region. The past couple of generations havecertainly done their bit here. From its Ram truck basedunderpinnings to an SUV was a stretch in itself until the

current (or past generation depending on your timeviewpoint) edition brought with it a remarkable level ofchange in creature comforts, better build quality andthe reintroduction of the 5.7-litre Hemi to replace theolder 5.9-litre V8. This Durango has had quite a longinnings by any standards and it has not been helpedalong by the almost simultaneous drop in sales of largeSUVs in the US, uctuating oil prices causing peopleto shy away from the large V8s and the economicmeltdown that saw folks have to graduate to smaller,cheaper cars.

The Durango has thus undergone one of the mostsignicant changes of all. For starters the platformhas now become a unibody that is claimed to be 25%stiffer than before. As with most unibodies, there is a

signicant amount of high-strength steel intermingledwith the normal steel body and the nal structure isclaimed to be stiffer than Mercs GL.

In terms of its suspension, the Durango now getsa new layout, using short/ long arm front suspensionwith isolated multi-link rear suspension. Add in moreaggressive tuning to its shocks and rebound rate andlarger anti-roll bars and you can imagine how muchmore European the ride feels. Anyone who has beenin the Durango also knows how critical the view to therear can be in the new car, the headrests drop out ofthe way at the touch of a switch.

The Durango, critically for most markets, now getsboth the 5.7-litre Hemi and the new Pentastar 3.6-litre V6. Effectively, this creates two distinct marketsat the top-end of Dodges SUV segment. We cansee a distinct preference for the Pentastar equippedDurango evolving from families that would use the carfor daily commutes. The Hemi-equipped Durango onthe other hand is fully kitted out to take on the roleof an almost Grand Cherokee. The crucial differencethat keeps these two cars apart is the lack of a Hi-Loarrangement on the Durango.

The Durango features two automatic transmissionsand two available full-time all-wheel-drive systems(V-6 and V-8 versions). The drivelines provide smoothoperation of the vehicle over a variety of road conditions.The Hemi-powered, all-wheel-drive Durango featuresa low-range transfer case for light off-road recreation

and to ease manoeuvres while towing. The 5.7-litrehas a 545RFE automatic gearbox with three planetarygear sets, one overrunning clutch, with ElectronicRange Select (ERS) driver interactive control and anelectronically controlled torque converter clutch and anMP3022 transfer case with two-speeds a 2.72 ratio andvariable distribution of torque front-rear.

The engineers have done a good job of retaining thehighlights that made the car so impressive to start ofwith it provides a proper third row, good cargo space,extremely adaptable interiors and a list of features thatbring it rmly into competition with Japanese luxurycompetition.

Uconnect Me ia Center wit MP3 WMA an ui t-

in 30GB hard drive

Navigation wit voice comman an 6.5 screen

Blind spot Monitoring - Noties driver of vehicles

trave ing in t eir in spot using i uminate icons

in t e exterior rear view mirrors. I t e turn signa

is engaged when a vehicle is in the blind spot an audible chime will sound

Camera wit a i ity to etect cross tra c in par ing otsKeyless Enter and Go

Hi Start Assist

E ectronic Sta i ity Contro t at actors in ro over situations an a apts or trai er

behaviour

Features on the Durango


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{Cover story}

The all-new ChargerThe star of the line-up and the car we wereall charged up to drive was the Charger itself.I had kept the car to the last as it was the carI really wanted to drive, after having drivenits cousin the 300C the previous day. TheCharger has always been close to my heartand with its signature prole, nicely sculptedchiselled looks and remarkable muscle carpoise, is a tough act to follow for Dodge.Let us remember that in the rst place, thecurrent Charger shared more than a passingrelation to the older E-class. In my opinion,this was one of the few positives that Chryslerderived from its partnership with Daimler.

And the Charger has had a reasonablysuccessful run to back it up. It is the mainmodel for Dodge in the region and helps thebrand consolidate the E-segment where it hastypically been at its best. So any change in thecar has to be handled with care and should be

seen to improve the car.That said the rst change you notice isin the styling. It is evolutionary rather thanrevolutionary in the shape of the new Charger.Though in some terms it is hark back to thepast time, with the return of the twin scallopedhood and a prominent tail-end. If at all I wasupset it was because of the loss of the swooshthat highlights the rear haunch around theC-pillar and the neat way in which the windowkinks up to the rear.

The new Charger does have more than apassing resemblance to the 1968 version. If

you really want to think Charger then youhave to remember the black chase cars inBullitt that chased Steve McQueen in hisMustang. The new Charger has all the appealof these classics. Etched lines highlight anamazing prole, muscle car oomph and anew treatment around the C-pillar that blursthe lines between large-door coupe and four-door sedan. The car now verges on a timelessdesign.

Of course we cannot forget the tail. Thetail is now ringed by 164 LEDs that combineto give the outline of a racetrack oval, neatlyframing the taillights and giving the car instantrecognition even from a mile away.

Additionally, there have been moreengineering changes applied to the body.The windshield gets a better rake in order toimprove visibility and the entire dashboard isnow far better to look at, eschewing its blackin favour of a brushed steel and leatherettelook.

In-dash navigation, Uconnect, a well-placed sound system, Blind spot monitoringand comfortable bolstering add appeal to thecar that gets the new Pentastar engine alongwith the Hemi. We wont go into the details ofthe SRT8 here since we think that warrants anarticle of its own in the future, but sufce to


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say that with the Auto Stick shifting and theHemi engine in the R/T we got a more thancompetent ride, with slightly stiffer suspensionthan we expected on the car.

The drive route out of San Diego took usaround the backroads of the state and backinto the town. I am sure that the car couldhave done the route in a third of its allottedtime, but CAs state troopers are a notoriouslot and we stayed in speed limit most of thetime.

Dodge, a new direction

The brand seems to also be making alt e rig t moves in terms o ran ing. It asisassociate itse rom t e RAM ran

with the horns logo going to the latter andthe simpler Dodge branding is a deniteadvantage. Add to that the crucial changest at are eing ma e in t e pro uction sp erewit a ran new metro ogy epartment to

ensures production quality) being set up andthe use of a system that implies a move to sixsigma manufacturing.

guess t ere is a ot more steam e t ino ge an t e atest o erings seem to e t e

ight ones at this time in their evolution.

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{Cover story}

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Best of both worlds isnt this whatthese cars are supposed to be? Nissandesigned the current GT-R [launched in

Japan in 2007 and elsewhere a year later] totake on Porsches fabled 911 and in the processalso set several benchmarks. While the GT-Rhas aged very well, it seems Nissan is keen tosee its agship supercar continue in its careerbefore its eventual retirement. Looking back,it seems that despite that fact it has provenits performance credentials, but its day-to-day renements didnt tick all the boxes.Handling on road was considered rough, thecar was noisy and most of all there were someembarassing engineering and warranty issuesin the early cars, especially with the launchcontrol systems.

Nissan Middle East invited Automan to tryout the VVIP GT-R at Abu Dhabis Yas Marinatrack last month. Chief engineer KazutoshiMizuno, also seen as the father of the GT-Runderstood that such niggles could seriously

jeopardize its career if not attended promptly.That Mizunosan has a special bond with theGT-R was quite evident when we rst viewedthe car in the pit lane at Yas Marina. While thecurrent GT-R (R35) will be replaced in 2013,Mizunosan has revised and refreshed the GT-Rfor 2011 over and under the skin. As part ofan ambitious business strategy, a strictlylimited VVIP edition has also been created forthree specic markets Middle East, Japanand Europe. With the VVIP edition, Nissanthinks that it has the answer: the strictlylimited edition of the ultimate expression ofthe famed Nissan GT-R, lovingly bespoked foreach owner. In theory, this means no two carswill be identical.

From the exterior, one of the giveawayclues is the fact that only GT-R VVIP modelsare available in a newly created and uniquecolour called Ultimate Opal White. The metallicpaint application is quite unique as it changescolours with different hues of natural light.

And besides the badging, cosmetic changesinclude a new front bumper with integratedLEDs, a new rear diffuser and several bespokeoptions. More than that, its the high levelof bespoke craftsmanship that will beholdthe eyes of its eventual owner. Such is thecare and attention to detail given to everyaspect of the car that many components aremeticulously hand built or nished. However,much of the attention has been focused onthe cockpit which features an upgraded fullleather interior created by Seton Leather inGermany. In total there are no fewer than 20colour combinations available with either asingle colour used throughout or contrastingtreatments for the upper and lower portionsof the interior. There are ten different colouroptions for the lower interior - including apale pink - and four for the upper section.Further choices include the availability of sixcontrasting options for the stitching. Carpetingthroughout is also colour co-ordinated. Taking

{Cover story}


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all the possible options into account theresa total of 84 different colour combinationsAnd then complementing the Seton leathepackage, a suede-like material is used to trimthe headlining, sunvisors, rear parcel sheland lower door panels.

Leather trim now extends throughoutthe interior and includes areas such as thebase of the front seats, the seat belt bucklesurrounds, the A- and B- pillars, the centreconsole surround and the transmission tunnelLeather can even be found lining the interioof the cup holders and covering the door sillsPlain and quilted nishes are used to providevisual contrasts between the sections.

Nissan claims that another example of thetime and painstaking precision involved inthe production of bespoke components is themonogram on the steering wheel. The regulaGT-R has a mass produced enamel badgeand for the VVIP, an ancient Japanese art isemployed. The monogram is hand paintedin a traditional decoration style known as

Engine remapping has ensured that both output and torque have increased from the twin turbo

V6 from 485hp to 530hp and 588Nm to 612Nm respectively


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{Cover story}

Urushi. For GT-R the method used is calledMakie and the skill can only be taught in theIshikawa Prefecture - home of the GT-R -and even before the artisan can practise theart, the craftsman has to be certied by thegovernment. In this case, each monogramis entrusted to one man, Kubota-san of theGoshikiya workshop. It takes many days

to build up the layers of paint to create thedepth of colour and the unique nish on theemblem. Each one, therefore, is unique.

Similar attention to detail has gone into thecreation of a bespoke audio system for the car.Developed by Bose, the 11-speaker systemfeatures a newly developed switching amp anda world rst in its use of a carbon compositemounting for a new nine inch woofer. But Bosegoes one step beyond in perfecting the systemfor the VVIP owner. On visiting the showroomto place the order, detailed measurements aretaken from the customer and his or her idealdriving position is established. The customersheight, leg length and preferred angle of theseat backrest are then fed to the factory toensure the speakers are placed in the optimumposition to optimise audio quality. It really isa made-to-measure sound system. While,the VVIP has been developed from the 2011version of the Nissan GT-R, it also benetsfrom a number of signicant improvementsto the engine, chassis and aerodynamics. Keyengineering changes include revised mapping

Keeping in mind the tastes of Middle East,

Europe and Japan, only one specially

created colour will be offered. However,

84 combinations of interior and exterior

colours are being offered

Specially created by father of the Nissan

GT-R, chief vehicle engineer Kazutoshi

Mizuno, the VVIP has a hand-crafted

interior using only the best quality hides

and a tailored Bose sound system.


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for the engine, changes to valve timing, largerinlets and a revised exhaust system to helpboost rated power from the VR38DETT twin-turbocharged twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6s outputof 485hp and 588Nm torque to 530hp and612Nm respectively. Changes also includea new more rigid front strut bar made fromcarbon composite, larger front brake rotors,new lighter and stiffer wheels, and new run at

tyres. Enhanced aerodynamics have increaseddownforce by 10 per cent while chassis anddamper changes have sharpened the handlingand smoothed the ride. Mizunosans team havealso tweaked and massaged the GT-Rs dual-clutch six-speed transmission. As expected,most of the work focused on eliminating thebrutal shock of engagement during periods ofmaximum stress [few early owners ended upwith shattered gearboxes]. Part of the exercisehas been to remap and upgrade the clutchcontrol software to deliver quicker launches,

but less traumatic to the mechanicals. Thelaunch control is now called R-mode and willactivate a launch from standstill at 4,000rpm.But theres a catch to this: the software willallow only four sequential runs back-to-backand after that, the car must be driven a fewkilometres to reset the system. We think it hassomething to do with cooling the overheatedsystem.

Driving impressionsNearly three years ago, I reviewed the Godzillaand at the time came to the conclusion thatthe car delivered robot-like perfection, yet itlacked something that would actually bondman and machine together. It was fast,but noisy and rough. Although track timeallocated was very limited, it gave us time toput the car through the paces. The north loopwas allocated for the test and Nissans drivinginstructors had laid out the track with cones

to simulate several driving conditions rangingfrom sharp braking, swift lane changes, slalomand some tight but fast corners. Lucky for uswe are quite familiar with the track, sweepingcurves and long straights, its cambers, turnsacceleration and braking points and not toforget our favourite cork screw corner of thetrack.

Its very easy to get settled in the GT-R like

any normal sports coupe and with the driver-focused chassis and shift settings in order,once, out of the pits, we immediately jabbedthe cars accelerator to see how it reactedto our instinctive inputs. The combination ofadvanced electronics, including the bumped upengine and the six-speed dual clutch gearboxwas a delight to be operated via magnesiumpaddles on the steering wheel. And where theconditions permitted on the track, we wereable to extra a high level of commitment fromthe cars performance reserves.


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{Cover story}

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Although, the cars were outtted with thelaunch control or R Start mode for racingstarts, it was not used. Because of this, wedisappointed a bit as we couldnt experiencethe cars claimed 0-100km/h sprint of 2.88seconds! While, the increase in powerand torque cuts the 0-100 km/h time to aremarkable 3.046 seconds with top speed

of 315km/h, the GT-R VVIP is not to beunderestimated.

While the sure-footed chassis offersunmatched traction and handling, the incomingGT-R denitely feels much more compliant inits ride as a result of the subtle revisions to itssprings and shock absorbers. Besides beingmore comfortable and luxurious, the attentionto NVH is pretty good. And complementingthese is also the braking performance fromthe larger front discs with improved faderesistance to fade. Road grip is well managedby the new alloy wheels. Tyres for all 2011models are specially constructed Dunlop SPSport Maxx GT 600 DSST CTT ultra high-

performance run-ats lled with nitrogen. Thefronts are size 255/40ZRF20 while the rear is285/35ZRF20.

VerdictUsing the idea of bespoke options in aperformance package, Nissan has used atwo pronged approached to extend theshelf life of the GT-R. Expect to shell outat least RO70,000 for the reworked NissanGT-R VVIP supercar if you want to join thatexclusive club of enthusiasts. While the GT-Rnow enters into bespoke territory, it hasntforgotten its core purpose of entertainment both on road and on track. The improvementson already a potent package is impressive --engine has more power, the suspension hasbeen revised, the wheels are lighter, the seatshave been redesigned, the brakes are bigger,the chassis is stiffer and the aerodynamicshave been recongured to improve coolingand provide more downforce. While we canempathise that this isnt Nissans token mid-cycle refresh to boost sales only, these arechanges that improve the overall drivabilityand performance of the GT-R so signicantlythat most will be inclined to consider it nothingshort of a second-generation rebirth.


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{road test}

Chrysler Group is denitely on an overdrivemode as it shifts gears under Fiatsstewardship. Ralph Gilles, president,

CEO of Dodge brand at Chrysler and theperfect man for the job certainly knows whathes doing with the brand. A known petrolheadin the automotive business and an authenticDodge Viper enthusiast, Gilles is taking thebrand to an all new level.

The all-new Challenger is among the latest

in the line-up to be reincarnated after a hiatusof more than 35 years. This model returnedin 2008 and now as part of the Challengerportfolio extension for the Middle East comesan in-house tuned version. Gilles certainlyknows the where to put muscle in a car. Usingthe Chargers platform as a donor, Gilles gotthe lads from Chryslers in-house tuning armStreet Racing Technology (SRT) to work on thecar. As expected in the recipe, the ChallengerSRT8 merges the best American muscle-carcharacteristics powerful powertrain withhandling and some modcons to match.

Gilles is also aware of the fact that FordsMustang has been extensively refreshed and

theres also the Chevy Camaro to contendwith. So, whats this package all about?Well, in theory, Chrysler has used the sameformula that Ford and many others haveused to create similar types of cars. In thespecic case of Dodge, it was by intelligentlycombining the go-fast parts of Chryslers SRT8cars (Dodge Charger SRT8 and Chrysler 300SRT8) with a design based on the 1970-74Dodge Challengers for this comeback model.And giving the SRT8 its exclusive identity is anumbered plaque on the dashboard and carbonbre-effect bonnet stripes. While, in its designit is quite faithful to the 70s classic Challenger,the modern elements in it ensures that itconsciously avoids falling into the category ofa retro revival. At the same time, it doesntlook ultra modern either. In a way thats good,since the car has a timeless classic appeal.It gets four round headlamps and deeplyinset grille [hall mark of the original], thoughnow the inside lights are turn signals andthe outer pair the headlamps. Where signalsrode below the bumper on the 70 the newone has fog lamps, and careful sculpting hasmaintained the classic look without destroying

aerodynamic efciency.Although, the two-door Challenger is based

on the Chargers platform, dimensionally itis different. The Challenger is shorter, widerand lower than the Charger and its wheelbaseis also shorter. Despite these alterations,the car has nice proportions and powerfulstance. Arguably, its a big car, many musclecar acionados might miss the fact that theChallenger is about 10in longer than the Ford

Mustang. Unlike most new cars, the maximumwidth is carried well out to the ends resultingin a broad, menacing car. Key design-cum-aerodynamic tweaks include a xed rearspoiler, deep front spoiler, dedicated ducts forbrake cooling and functional bonnet scoops.Adding class are polished aluminum fuel capand forged aluminum wheels.

One of the benets of the 2+2 coupe carsdimensions is the fact that despite two doorsshort, it clearly avoids compromising rearseat accommodation and cargo space. Thexed side rear windows do not allow the fullopen hardtop of the original with its framelessdoors but in a nod to that look Dodge kept

the pillars behind the glass so they arentso obvious. The cabin

automan march 2011

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