4x4 Magazine

ATVs ACCESSIBLE IN INDIA

2011-12-10T05:25:00.001-08:00

Nebula Automotive introduces new four-wheeler ATVs for the Indian power sports and dirt bike market. The all-terrain vehicle manufacturer and distributor based in Pune, has added new ATV models that will give the Indian consumer a wider selection of off-road quads and ATVs.

The new models include the Nebula 125E, Nebula 150D, Nebula Dingo 250, 4x4 Nebula Xtreme 800, and the amphibious Nebula Maritime ATV.

Nebula Automotive entered the off-road quad bike market in 2009 and is now the home of the largest ATV showroom in India with company-owned locations in Mumbai and Pune. The founder, S.G. Asnani, has a vision of offering a wide assortment of ATVs at price points suited for every type of rider in India. Based on this philosophy, a dozen Nebula ATV models are available ranging from entry-level 110cc quads for children and budget-focused buyers to 800cc 4x4 ATVs for extreme power sports enthusiasts.

ATVs have many purposes such as joy riding, adventure sports, convenience farming, and border security. Although ATV trails are not commonplace, many riders use them on hilly tracks, sand dunes, forest areas, and other terrain that is not accessible with street vehicles. ATVs can already be found at many hill stations, beach resorts, and adventure clubs throughout the country.

"Previously, buyers in India had to put their names on pre-order lists or deposit large amounts of money and wait for several weeks before taking delivery of their ATVs. With most of the country having instant access to the latest automobiles, bikes, tablet PCs and phones, we are now standardizing the process of purchasing the ATV for the buyer," says Asnani. The ATVs are usually in the buyer's possession within 24 hours of purchase after undergoing a thorough pre-delivery inspection.

India does not require riders to obtain a driving license for operating ATVs, ont the other hand these al terrain vehicles cannot be registered with any Regional Transport Office of the country.

UPGRADED PAJERO IN MALAYSIA

2011-12-08T11:08:00.001-08:00

Mitsubishi Motors Malaysia introduced the upgraded Mitsubishi Pajero, coming with re-designed front grille and bumper, a new skid plate, re-styled roof rail and a fresher 18”alloy wheel design.

Inside, the dashboard now comes in red illumination color for a sportier outlook while maintaining a luxurious feel from plush leather trim to expansive seating system. The centrepiece of the Pajero’s dashboard is the high-end Rockford Acoustic Design premium sound system comprising 12 speakers, an 860-watt amplifier, digital signal processor (DSP) and a 5.1 channel theater surround system. The driver is able to control the 6-CD/USB/AUX compatible sound system via buttons on the leather wrapped four-spoke steering wheel.

Other comfort and convenience features include powered front seats, automatic climate control, rear air-conditioning with independent control, plus roof and floor vents for second and third row occupants.

To aid parking and reversing, the Pajero comes with a rear view camera system which has a monitor incorporated into the auto dimming mirror. As a safety function, the Pajero introduces the Brake Overide System. This system cuts engine power in case of simultaneous application of both accelerator and brake pedal. Once this function is activated, the system reduces power on the engine without stalling or turning the engine off.

Powered by a 3.8-litre V6 engine with 250PS of power and 329Nm of torque, the 24-valve engine is equipped with Mitsubishi Motors’ MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control) technology for optimum performance and efficiency. The V6 engine is paired to an INVECS-II 5-speed automatic transmission with Sport Mode which combines the convenience of an automatic with the control of a manual gearbox when needed.

Mitsubishi’s advanced All Wheel Control (AWC) system delivers precise traction, power and slip control for each wheel independently to ensure complete driver control. One major component of the AWC system is Active Stability and Traction Control (ASTC). It uses a network of sensors to collect real-time data and monitor the vehicle status and steering angle. This data is then used to regulate brake force and drive torque on an individual wheel basis to improve handling and stability. ASTC is integrated with Multi-mode ABS and EBD.

Fully imported from Japan, the Mitsubishi Pajero is priced at RM 298,980.00 on-the-road inclusive of insurance. Owners get to enjoy a 3-year/100,000 km warranty as well as a 2-year/40,000 km free maintenance for an added peace of mind.

THE RULE-BREAKER

2011-12-07T11:09:00.001-08:00

The new smart for-us translates the practical loading concept of a pickup to the reality of 21^st century urban traffic. It will celebrate its world premiere at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit 14 - 22 January 2012.

With its exterior dimensions (length/width/height: 3547/1506/1701mm) it could almost go unnoticed on the loading area of a typical pickup, and it also anything but ordinary under the body. Compared with the series-produced fortwo, the longer wheelbase (2480mm/plus 613mm) and the track that has been widened by 50mm on each side emphasise the robust look of the study. At the same time the extremely short overhangs at the front and rear make it exceedingly compact.

It has plenty of room for two people and space for two smart ebikes behind them. Thanks to the docking station on the cargo area of the smart for-us their batteries are always charged, and smart for-us drivers can also reach destinations that are out of bounds for cars – for example traffic-calmed zones in the city or isolated park trails.

The tailboard at the rear of the smart for-us is electrically driven. When it opens first of all the cargo floor including tailboard retracts by 280mm, then the tailgate slides down in a parallel position. The 900mm cargo area is then extremely easy accessible.

The interior is characterised by contrasts. Like in the smart forvision, the whole cockpit boasts aerodynamic styling for interior ventilation. In place of a conventional rear-view mirror the smart for-us features a smartphone accommodated in a holder on top of the instrument panel support. The driver can see what is happening on the road behind with the help of an integrated video camera.

The electric drive of the smart for-us is based on the innovative drive concept of the smart fortwo electric drive, which will be launched in the spring of 2012. Thanks to the 55kW magneto-electric motor the smart for-us is agile and lively to drive. With 130Nm of torque it boasts powerful, lag-free acceleration. The maximum speed exceeds 120km/h. The lithium-ion battery has capacity of 17.6 kWh.

smart CEO Dr. Annette Winkler says "We at smart love pick-ups – if they are small on the outside, large on the inside, very safe and extremely comfortable. With the smart for-us a petrol station is no longer required!”

MADE IN CHINA

2011-12-05T11:50:00.001-08:00

Marking another milestone for Mercedes-Benz in China, the first locally produced Mercedes-Benz GLK compact SUV rolled off the line today at the Beijing production plant of Beijing Benz Automotive Co.

This follows the June 2011 agreement between Daimler and Chinese Joint Venture partner BAIC to further expand their cooperation in China with various projects, including the GLK. The GLK adds to the locally-produced Long-wheel-base E-Class and new C-Class, and complements other current investments in BBAC, including the new engine plant and R&D Center.

Ulrich Walker, Chairman & CEO of Daimler Northeast Asia, explains: “The GLK has proved to be enormously popular with customers here in China, so it is an ideal addition to our lineup of locally- produced vehicles.”

The Mercedes-Benz GLK has received a very warm welcome from customers worldwide since its debut in 2008. In particular in China, a growing number of customers have appreciated the brand’s compact SUV, with sales already well in excess of 20,000 units in the current year. China now represents one of the most important markets worldwide for the GLK.

Mercedes-Benz sold 168,940 vehicles overall in China (including Hong Kong) from January through November 2011, an increase of 29.9 percent compared to the same time-frame in 2010. Year-to-date sales in October 2011 already exceeded the total number of cars sold in 2010. The next few years are also certain to see further sales growth: in 2015, the company aims to sell more than 300,000 Mercedes-Benz passenger cars in China.

BRAWNIER RANGE ROVER

2011-12-04T06:39:00.001-08:00

HAMANN presents the Range Rover V8 Supercharged 5.0i Premium. Exclusive bodywork, performance, and a new interior program makes the luxury SUV appear much more dynamic.

The new bodywork includes a new front spoiler with larger cooling air inlets with harmoniously integrated LED daytime running lights in front, newly designed side skirts forming a single unit with the wider wings, and stainless steel exhaust pipes integrated into the centre in the back. Upon request, a carbon roof spoiler generates additional downforce and provides greater stability at high speeds.

With about 530HP/390kW and a huge torque of 660Nm at 2,600RPM, the HAMANN optimized Range Rover surpasses the original figures (510PS / 375kW and 625Nm at 2,500RPM) by a long chalk. The vehicle accelerates from stand-still to highway speed in just 6.0 seconds, reaching a top speed of up to 227 km/h. The ultra-lightweight, three-part design edition forged wheels are equipped with tires of size 295/35R22, which guarantee the powerful grip.

As for all other vehicles by HAMANN, the same applies to the Range Rover 5.0i V8 Supercharged: the customer can have almost infinite number of combinations of leather, Alcantara, wood, carbon or aluminium trim to put together his own personal interior, everything made with the highest degree of craftsmanship and precision.

SMALL BUT VERSATILE

2011-12-01T05:18:00.001-08:00

For this year’s Tokyo Motor Show Daihatsu has adopted the slogan “Big Answer from Small,” and through each of its exhibits will express its roadmap for technological innovation that everyone in the world can enjoy in a compact car style. 

Among these exhibits, the D-X (“d-cross”) is characteristic of tough and aggressive styling. Its specifications can be modified into a variety of types from roadster or track-racer, into a hatchback or into a mini off-roader by swapping out parts of its resin-based body.

The lightweight compact features an interior with Spartan but sporty feeling. Under the hood, the D-X runs a 0.66 litre two-cylinder, direct-injection and turbo-charged engine.

SUV OF THE FUTURE

2011-11-30T12:53:00.001-08:00

Volkswagen unveiled its concept of an SUV of the future at the Tokyo Motor Show. The all-wheel drive plug-in hybrid hints at how a crossover between a four-door coupé and an SUV could look.

At 4,345mm, the concept car being shown in Tokyo is longer than a Golf and shorter than a Tiguan. The width of 1,868mm and height of 1,523mm also come exactly in between these two bestsellers.

The concept car’s 2,630mm wheelbase is very long in relation to its overall length (52mm longer than the Golf and 26mm longer than the Tiguan). The correspondingly short overhangs (855mm at the front and 860mm at the back) gives the car a very compact but dynamic appearance, which is emphasised by wide tracks widths of 1,585mm (front) and 1,613mm (rear). It also possesses figures that almost fall into the range of classic SUVs. The front angle of approach, for example, is 24.2 degrees and at the rear 32.5 degrees and the concept also features good off-road ground clearance.

The design of the car features the characteristic horizontal lines of the Volkswagen ‘face’ at the front while linking to the future with a completely new light and grille treatment. The rear is dominated by steeply sloping angles and new distinctive light clusters which are combined with SUV-like chunky bumpers and twin tailpipes.

The four-seat Cross Coupé is powered by two electric motors (one front and one rear) which generate 40kW / 180Nm of torque and 85kW / 270Nm respectively, and a TSI direct injection turbo petrol engine. With overall power of 265PS, the Cross Coupé can accelerate to 62mph in just seven seconds and on to a top speed of 125mph. It can travel up to 40km on purely electric power.

The all-wheel drive system with ‘electric drive shaft’ also represents an innovation for Volkswagen, with the rear axle being driven by the rear electric motor. In this situation power is supplied to the rear electric motor by the one at the front, which during this phase acts as a generator powered by the TSI engine. This means that in the Cross Coupé, the flow of electrical energy thus replaces the conventional drive shaft which creates room in the central tunnel (which would usually house the drive shaft) to hold the lithium ion battery. The resulting low position of the battery and layout of the drive systems give the vehicle a very low centre of gravity and a balanced spread of axle loading, endowing the car with dynamic coupé-like handling qualities.

SUV OF SENSES

2011-11-29T07:32:00.001-08:00

One of the undoubted stars of Nissan stand at the Tokyo Motor Show will be the Juke Nismo Concept, an idea of how a premium sports version of the successful compact crossover could look.

Although the Juke Nismo Concept is not as aggressive as the Juke-R but it would be even more widely available. It's lower, wider and has a tougher stance than the standard Juke, so it is more sporty. The concept magnifies the unique mix of compact car agility, coupé-like responses and SUV strength.

Finished in signature Nismo colours of pearl white with red highlights, the concept model wears an aerodynamic body kit designed not just to look good, but also to be dynamically highly efficient. New parts include revised bumpers front and rear, wider fenders and sill side skirts. The grille pattern has been changed while the tailgate spoiler has been modified by the addition of side elements to control airflow more efficiently. Even the shape of the door mirrors has been altered to enhance the car's aerodynamic performance and reduce front and rear lift without increasing drag. This reduction in lift means the contact patch of the tyres has been increased to improve grip, which is further enhanced by the arrival of stylish new 19-inch alloy wheels.

The Nismo treatment includes also the chassis which has been lowered and stiffened, while the 1.6-litre direct injection turbo gasoline engine has been uprated to deliver more power and performance.

In the interior the parts that interact with the driver's senses - the steering wheel, pedals, gauges, shifter knob and door trims have been redesigned to provide greater involvement when driving. The tachometer’s dial and needle are illuminated in red. Also have been added special leather-trimmed bucket seats and the previously light coloured surfaces has been given a metallic coating to enhance the purposeful feeling of enhanced sporting quality in the cockpit.

14 STARS FOR 3 SUVS

2011-11-28T12:27:00.001-08:00

Euro NCAP's fifth and last launch of 2011 presents the results for fourteen new cars including 3 4x4 SUVs. Jeep Grand Cherokee achieved four stars, while the Range Rover Evoque and Subaru XV were awarded the top safety rating of five stars.

The Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) safety performance test is the industry standard across the continent and one of the most rigorous programmes in the world. As part of Euro NCAP Advanced's mission to reward advanced systems, the safety organization has assessed a number of new technologies offered on recently tested models.

The latest crossover vehicle from the Japanese All-Wheel-Drive specialists scored particularly highly in the occupant protection category and was praised for its full complement of safety equipment. The XV benefits from Subaru’s symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) system, as well as the introduction of an advanced impact energy relay structure, ensuring the driver and passengers are well-protected in the event of a collision. This modern design makes use of high-tensile steel to improve safety and reduce weight throughout the car.

Dual front and side airbags are also standard, with driver’s knee, curtain and torso airbags ensuring the car scored maximum points for side protection. VDC (Vehicle Dynamics Control – Subaru’s version of ESP), which provides greater stability through the use of sensors throughout the AWD system, is also provided as standard across the XV model range.

The Range Rover Evoque with a five-star overall safety rating scored 86% in the adult occupant tests, 75% in child occupant tests, 41% in pedestrian safety tests, and 86% on the ‘safety assist’ portion of the review.

The only 4 star rated SUV, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, in the event of a frontal impact, the driver's inboard seat rail broke nearly into two parts and was mainly held together by the threaded steel rod controlling fore-aft adjustment of the seat. The break occurred just at the point where the lower anchorage for the driver's seat belt attaches to the rail, and experts assume that the cause were the high tensile forces in the belt during the test. As a result, there was additional forward movement of the dummy which contributed to 'bottoming out' of the airbag i.e. there was insufficient pressure in the airbag to prevent the driver's head from making contact, through the fabric of the airbag, with the steering wheel rim,” Euro NCAP says. Additionally during the frontal impact, the child dummy representing a three year old did not move forward excessively. However, on rebound, the dummy's head contacted the trim on the rear door pillar and the car lost all points for protection in that test.

TUNING WITH WARRANTY

2011-11-25T09:19:00.001-08:00

The BRABUS Tuning Program for the new Mercedes M-Class will debut at the 2011 Essen Motor Show. Exclusive, individual and ecofriendly strong in compliance with Euro VI emission standards: these three attributes best describe the latest BRABUS tuning program.

From a visual standpoint the SUV receives an upgrade with a sporty yet elegant aerodynamic-enhancement program and custom-tailored Monoblock wheels with diameters of up to 22 inches. The program also includes engine tuning for the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC that is as powerful as it is ecofriendly. Further on offer are stainless-steel sport exhaust systems for all models and striking interior designs including an all-leather interior in any desired color. The German tuning company backs all components with the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers.

Designers have developed new sill skirts which combine elegant design with a safety feature: entrance lights integrated into the underside are activated by pulling on a door handle or by pushing the unlock button on the keyless remote. Depending on the type of engine the rear fascia comes with a cutout on the left or with a cutout on either side to provide the perfect backdrop for the dual or quad sport exhaust system. A rear spoiler that attaches to the liftgate will be available in the near future.

The suspension components, developed in cooperation with BILSTEIN, are specifically calibrated to the tire/wheel combination. For vehicles with conventional steel suspension BRABUS offers a choice of sport springs for a ride-height lowering by some 30 millimeters (1.2 inches). For vehicles with AIRMATIC air suspension the suspension engineers have developed a custom control module that lowers the ride height of the SUV by some 30 - 40 millimeters.

For the V6 common-rail turbodiesel engine of the ML 350 BlueTEC 4MATIC the engine specialists have developed the BRABUS ECO PowerXtra D6S performance kit that falls into the same EURO VI emissions class as the production car. The plug-and-play auxiliary control unit is integrated into the CAN bus of the SUV. The mapping was calibrated specifically to the ecofriendly BlueTEC concept that uses AdBlue reactant to purify exhaust gases.

The performance kit bumps peak torque from standard 620Nm to 690Nm, available on a plateau between 1,600 and 2,400rpm. At the same time maximum power output jumps from 258hp to 306hp at just 3,600 rpm. With a sprint time of just 6.0 seconds the SUV takes exactly 1.4 seconds less for the sprint from 0 to 100km/h than the production car. Top speed increases to 229km/h. To control this power BRABUS offers a high-performance brake system normally reserved for purebred sports cars.

Yet another particular specialty are exclusive interior options: bi-color stainless-steel scuff plates with backlit BRABUS logo as well as matte-anodized aluminum pedals, door-lock pins and foot rest are part of the refinement repertoire as well a full leather upholstery of the finest Mastik leather and Alcantara. In addition, there are exotic-wood and carbon-fiber trim sets in any desired color and with a variety of surfaces from open-pored and matte to high-gloss finishes.

PASSAT FOR RUGGED GROUND

2011-11-23T12:13:00.001-08:00

The new Volkswagen Passat Alltrack will debut in a world premiere at the Tokyo Motor Show; market launch for the new versatile Alltrack begins in early 2012.

Based on the popular and versatile Passat Estate, the Passat Alltrack adds 4MOTION four-wheel drive and a raised ride height that give it greater agility off-road, along with stylish body enhancements that also provide some protection from scrapes when covering rough terrain. These include stainless steel-look front and rear underbody protection panels and flared side sills. This new version closes the gap between the conventional Passat Estate and SUVs.

At 4,771 mm, the Passat Alltrack is exactly the same length as the Passat Estate. Flared wheel arch protection increases the vehicle’s width by 20 mm to 1,840 mm, while the suspension is raised to increase ground clearance from 135 to 165 mm. This also improves the ramp breakaway angle (significant when crossing the crest of a hill) from 9.5 to 12.8 degrees. Ruggedly styled front and rear bumpers increase the approach angle from 13.5 to 16 degrees, and the departure angle from 11.9 to 13.6 degrees.

As with other Volkswagen vehicles featuring 4MOTION, on the Passat Alltrack the front axle is usually driven, with only 10 per cent of propulsive power going to the rear axle. This saves on fuel. If necessary, almost 100 per cent of power can be sent to the rear axle, through use of an electrohydraulic Haldex clutch.

The Passat Alltrack also features an off-road mode, similar to that on the Tigua. When switched on (via a dashboard-mounted button), this activates hill descent assist, which automatically brakes the vehicle when the descent angle is greater than 10 degrees. The ABS function is also altered, with higher thresholds for operation on loose surfaces, along with faster-reacting electronic differential locks (EDS) to prevent wheelspin. For vehicles fitted with DSG dual-clutch transmission, the shift pattern is also altered when off-road mode is engaged, with higher shift points to give more power, a flatter and easier to manage accelerator pedal movement and no automatic upshifting in manual mode.

Two turbocharged direct injection petrol engines (TSI) with 160PS and 210PS and two turbodiesels (TDI) with 140PS and 170PS will be available in the Passat Alltrack. The two most powerful Alltrack versions, the 170PS TDI and the 210PS TSI, have standard 4MOTION all-wheel drive and a dual clutch transmission (DSG). For the smaller TDI engine powered models, Volkswagen will offer all-wheel drive as an option.

Standard equipment will include 2Zone electronic climate control, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system, MDI iPod connectivity, Bluetooth telephone preparation and 18-inch alloys.

TRAILBLAZER BREAKS COVER IN DUBAI

2011-11-18T11:10:00.001-08:00

Chevrolet’s toughest, most- refined midsize sport utility vehicle, the TrailBlazer, made its globaldebut at the Dubai International Motor Show.

The robust seven-seat show vehicle previews Chevrolet’s latest SUV offering, which will be sold around the world, beginning with Thailand in early 2012, where it will be manufactured too. Developed in tandem with the all-new Chevrolet Colorado pickup, it shares the same architecture as its truck sibling, with a chassis tuned to combine heavy-duty off-road capability with refined city driving.

The show vehicle features an all-wheel-drive system and is powered by GM’s new 2.8-liter Duramax turbo-diesel engine, which features a variable-geometry turbocharger for an optimal combination of performance and fuel economy.

Although this is a show vehicle, the overall design is faithful to the production version that will arrive in Chevrolet showrooms next year. It was created by the GM South America Design Center in São Caetano do Sul, Brazil, and shares a number of design cues with its sister vehicle, the Chevrolet Colorado.

Exterior highlights include a “body in-wheels out” design that delivers high approach and departure angles. Higher-mounted dual projector headlamps are positioned beneath the power dome. Also prominent is the contemporary dual-port grille while the integrated LED front and rear fog lamps provide a premium appearance.

With a flowing instrument panel, integrated center stack, and signature Chevrolet dual cockpit design, the interior of the all-new TrailBlazer combines car-like characteristics with the boldness expected of a SUV. The seven-passenger interior offers intuitive three-row tumble and/or fold-flat seat versatility and best-in-class spaciousness in the third row. Contrasting trim used with the light-colored leather seating, mat dark wood trim accented with chrome, and dual-grained surfaces used on the upper and lower IP provide a premium feel. A number of storage compartments are located throughout the interior, including a covered center bin and a large, dual glovebox. Other features include a dual-zone, digital climate control system and the latest in infotainment technology.

NOT JUST FOR THE SEVEN DWARFS

2011-11-17T11:40:00.001-08:00

Infiniti makes its first entry into the growing 7-passenger luxury crossover segment with unveiling the JX luxury crossover today at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The all-new Infiniti JX is designed to excel in interior flexibility and roominess, safety, and advanced hospitality features. It offers 3-row utility, excellent legroom in all three rows and ample cargo room behind the 3rd row, plus all the premium features, performance and innovations that Infiniti is known for worldwide.

The JX also continues Infiniti's tradition of developing world's first technologies, adding a new feature, Backup Collision Intervention (BCI), to the currently available Blind Spot Intervention (BSI) system and Around View Monitor. With this technology, when the transmission is in reverse, the JX will help the driver detect crossing vehicles and objects behind the JX and, if necessary, the system can automatically engage the brakes to help avoid a collision.

Among the many other advanced standard and available technologies found throughout the new JX is Infiniti Connection, a new feature that can automatically synch the owner's schedule through Google Calendar and then provides navigation guidance to appointments. The Infiniti Connection system also includes Infiniti Personal Assistant, which offers owners 24-hour personal concierge services, such as arranging dinner reservations, flight changes, or purchase of anniversary gifts, from inside or outside of their Infiniti vehicle.

Offered in both front-wheel drive and with Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the Infiniti JX comes with a standard 265-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 mated to a sport-tuned Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). The Infiniti JX will be available on the market in spring 2012.

STILL CONCEPT ONLY

2011-11-15T11:00:00.000-08:00

Mitsubishi will be showing a total of 15 vehicles at the 42. Tokyo Motor Show. Two cars will make their world premiere at the show: the Mitsubishi Mirage and the Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV II SUV (the first PX-MiEV had its premier two years ago in Tokyo Motor Show) featuring “green technology” with its unique plug-in hybrid drive-train, effectively extinguishes many negative perceptions of SUVs (the first PX-MiEV had its premier also in Tokyo Motor Show two years ago).

Mitsubishi’s plug-in hybrid system fuses EV technology derived from the Mitsubishi i-MiEV with a small conventional engine. This combination provides not only a combined fuel efficiency of more than 60km per litre, but also very high levels of environmental performance while maintaining a cruising range on a par with conventional engine-driven vehicles (over 800km).

The system uses high-capacity batteries that allow the vehicle to cover over 50km in all-electric mode alone, allowing it to be driven solely as an EV for most everyday situations. Depending on power consumption the system will start the engine automatically as a generator, and the engine can also be used to help drive the wheels as necessary. At the same time, the driver can also switch to Battery Charge Mode while on the move. A socket fitted to the vehicle allows the electricity stored in the drive batteries to be used to power electric appliances when camping or in other outdoor pursuits. In addition, the quick-charge port is vehicle-to-home (V2H) compatible.

Another feature of the second generation of Mitsubishi Concept PX-MiEV is its drive-train which uses a newly developed twin-motor four-wheel-drive system mated to Mitsubishi’s S-AWC (Super-All Wheel Control) advanced traction control system, based on the four-wheel-drive technology developed and honed in the Lancer Evolution X models. It provides 100% instant off-the-line torque inherent to electric motors, giving it acceleration comparable to that of a 3.0-litre V6 engine.

Alongside these the RVR compact SUV (ASX in the European market) will be powered by a new MIVEC engine with Auto Stop & Go (AS&G) idle-stop technology, and the Pajero (Shogun the UK market) SUV powered by a “clean diesel” engine.

FROM SAHARA TO ARCTIC

2011-11-12T05:37:00.001-08:00

Building on the success of several recent special-edition vehicles, the Jeep is introducing its latest models: the new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Arctic and Jeep Liberty Arctic.

The rugged, extreme winter conditions of the arctic are the inspiration for these latest Jeep models. With winter temperatures that can reach -50 degrees Fahrenheit, and wind speeds that can exceed 100 miles per hour, the arctic is well known as one of the most intense climates on Earth.

Based on the Wrangler Sahara model, the Arctic's winter theme is immediately recognizable. Available colors are Winter Chill, Bright Silver, and Bright White. Exterior features include a body-color hardtop and fender flares, "Arctic" badges on the front fenders, a "Yeti Footprint" decal over part of the driver's side fender and hood, black hood decal, and Mopar black fuel filler door and taillamp guards.

Jeep Wrangler Arctic also offers an aggressive Wrangler Rubicon tire and wheel package, with unique semi-gloss black 17-inch wheels shod with 32-inch tires.

Inside, Wrangler Arctic's seats are black Tectonic fabric with Polar White accents and orange piping and accent stitching. Front seats are heated and feature an "Arctic" logo in the seat back. Accent stitching can also be found on the steering wheel, arm rest, and console lid. Door trim and nets are accented in orange, and all grab handles and dashboard vent rings are finished in Polar White trim. Mopar tread pattern slush mats with white "Jeep" lettering complete the Wrangler Arctic package.

SEE IT! DRIVE IT! BUY IT!

2011-11-11T05:56:00.001-08:00

Top Marques heads to Macau where Knight XV will launch in Asia. The world’s largest, most luxurious, handcrafted, biofuel powered, fully armoured SUV, launched at SEMA Show 2008 in Las Vegas, is one of the supercars arrives to Asia at he inauguration of Top Marques show which takes place four days after the Macau Grand Prix (24-27th November 2011).

Looking to Top Marques as the bellwether for the car industry, leading players wait with bated breath for the opening of the gateway to this colossal, emerging market with an exploding ultra-rich population. Manufacturers who made an appearance in Monaco have scrambled to get homologation in order to be legally driven on Chinese roads. Asian car connoisseurs perched in the upper echelons of this booming society are eager to get behind the wheel to drive these prized, limited edition models from premium car manufacturers. The Macau event will imitate the successful Top Marques Monaco show formula with test drives on the 2.1 km Gulfstream Track beside the Venetian Macau Hotel so visitors can See it! Drive it! Buy it! The Top Marques Macau supercar show covers 13,465 m.

For the past eight years, Top Marques Monaco has wooed the world every April at the Grimaldi Forum with the most exclusive supercar show in the world, sophisticated and limited series timepieces by the world’s most prestigious master watchmakers, rare jewels, fast superboats and bespoke luxury artistry, all bonded by visionary craftsmanship.

HANDS OFF

2011-11-10T05:49:00.000-08:00

Ford this month is introducing its all-new Escape SUV at the Los Angeles Auto Show on November 16. The new Escape is another of Ford's global vehicles, based on the company's C-sized platform.

The vehicle will be offered with three fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, including 1.6- and 2.0-liter versions of Ford's popular EcoBoost engines. The new 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine is expected to deliver better fuel economy than competitors' larger four- cylinder engines. The 2.0-liter EcoBoost is expected to offer better fuel economy than competitors' V6 engines, while delivering unsurpassed performance compared to those larger six-cylinder powertrains.

The new Escape featuring a segment-first hands-free power liftgate. It is the first SUV to use gesture-based technology similar to that found in video games. A gentle kicking motion under the center of the rear bumper activates the system and raises the liftgate without the need to fumble for a key. The same kicking motion closes the liftgate as well.

The hands-free liftgate builds on Ford's Intelligent Access push-button start. It allows customers to unlock and start their vehicles without having to take the key out of their pocket or purse. The system uses two sensors in the rear bumper to detect a person's shin and kicking motion. The system safeguards against accidental opening by being programmed to open with leg motions – not when an animal runs under the car or when the vehicle hits a bump on the road.

The all-new Escape goes on sale next spring, building on the success of Ford's highly popular small SUV. First introduced in 2000, nearly 2 million Escapes have been sold. It will be built at Ford's Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky, where the company has invested $600 million to retool the facility.

REFINEMENTS FOR RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

2011-11-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

STARTECH, a BRABUS Group company, refines the new Range Rover Evoque with a sporty-elegant design program, which celebrates its world debut at the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

For the three-door and five-door Evoque the STARTECH designers have developed a styling program designed predominantly for on-road operation. It lends the newcomer even more carlike character. All body components are manufactured in OEM quality from high-grade Pur-R-Rim plastics. The product lineup also includes custom-tailored 21-inch forged wheels, a ride-height lowering by 35 millimeters (1.4 in.), a sport exhaust system and high-class interior options. Additional innovative products such as for example engine tuning are currently under development. The performance kit for the 2.0-liter SI4 gasoline engine that normally produces 240hp (176.6 kW) is already in the final stages of development.

For this purpose new fasciae were shaped for the front and rear that replace the production bumpers in their entirety. The shape was fine-tuned in the wind tunnel to further reduce lift on the front axle, which benefits directional stability at high speeds. The new rear fascia impresses with more than just an integrated diffuser, it also features distinctive tailpipes that can be combined with the production exhaust or with the STARTECH stainless-steel rear muffler.

Another focus of the refinement program is on the interior. The program comprises attractive accessories such as an ergonomically shaped sport steering wheel and aluminum pedals, foot rest and shifter. The finest leather and Alcantara can be transformed into a tasteful cockpit in any desired color and with any upholstery design. The perfect complements are wood or carbon-fiber trim sets in any desired color and with a wide variety of surface finishes. The resulting overall ambiance is either extremely luxurious or markedly sporty depending on customer preference. The show car for Dubai sports an all-leather interior of especially soft and breathable black and white leather, sets itself further apart with diamond-shaped precision topstitching.

NEW KIA PLANT IN CHINA

2011-11-08T14:37:00.000-08:00

Kia Motors has announced that it plans to build a third manufacturing plant in China in order to meet dramatically increasing local demand and to maintain its positive sales momentum in the Chinese market.

The signing ceremony for the investment MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to build the new Dongfeng Yueda Kia Plant 3 in Yancheng, Jiangsu Province was attended by more than 50 Chinese government officials and Kia Motors representatives, including Hyundai Motor Group Chairman, Mong-Koo Chung. Dongfeng Yueda Kia (DYK) Motors is a 50/50 joint venture through which Kia Motors manufactures, markets and services vehicles in China.

Dongfeng Yueda Kia Plant One

The new plant will be located just five kilometers from Kia’s second plant in Yancheng’s Economic and Technology Development Zone. Upon completion of the plant, which will be able to produce 300,000 units annually, Kia will have increased its production capacity in China from the current 430,000 units at its existing two plants to a total of 730,000 units per year.

Mr. Chung said, “With our third China plant, which we will begin constructing at the end of next year, Kia will be well-positioned to provide its growing Chinese customer base with stylish, safe, reliable and high-quality vehicles while also helping to further develop the local economy and improve people’s lifestyles”.

Kia plans to begin construction of the new plant at the end of next year and anticipates completion of the facility and the roll-out of production models in the second half of 2014.

Strategic models developed especially for the Chinese market to reflect local needs and preferences will be built at the new plant, but the specific models have yet to be finalized as Kia continues to study the rapidly transforming Chinese automobile market.

Dongfeng Yueda Kia Plant Two

Kia has been one of the best performing foreign brands in China in recent years. Sales of locally-manufactured Kia vehicles reached 101,427 units in 2007, and the company posted a 40% year-on-year increase in 2008, selling 142,008 units after the second DYK plant was put into full operation. Kia continued its strong growth in 2009, recording a 70% year-on-year increase (241,386 units sold). Last year, Kia posted further strong double-digit growth, reaching 333,028 vehicles sold for 38% year-on-year growth.

So far this year (through the end of October), sales of locally produced vehicles recorded 341,682 units thanks to the introduction of the highly competitive mid-size K5 sedan (known as ‘Optima’ in other markets) and the sub-compact K2 (a localised version of the all-new Rio).

Combined with its sister company Hyundai Motor Co., which has annual capacity in China of 720,000 units, the Group expects to reach sales of around 1,150,000 units in 2011, placing it third in the Chinese market behind VW and GM.

HISTORIC SEASON FOR YAMAHA

2011-11-07T12:25:00.000-08:00

Yamaha Racing's Dustin Nelson capped his record fifth QuadX Series Championship at Glen Helen Raceway in Southern California last Saturday, dominating the track and winning both of the final two Pro 450 Production motos.

Dustin dominated the series on his YFZ450R and stayed on top of the podium at every stop. He pulled holeshots and never looked back in the two Pro motos symbolizing his historic season in which he won all eight QuadX Series stops throughout Southern California and Arizona including 11 of 12 total motos.

"To have a season like we did, the equipment had to be flawless – and everything worked great round after round," Nelson said. "We had strong engines to get us out front with no failures during the year. In fact, we used the same chassis and the same engine, with normal rebuilds only, all year."

Team Yamaha celebrated Nelson's championship and the entire 2011 QuadX Series by hosting a number of racer appreciation activities under the awning of the Yamaha demo truck. Yamaha passed out customized "2011 QuadX Series" water bottles and teamed with other series sponsors to host a free BBQ and raffle giving away countless Yamalube items, along with a Glen Helen season pass, riding gear, hats, beanies, T-shirts and a Yamaha generator as grand prize. Series champions from each class were honored atop the podium, awarded a custom pit board trophy and thanked for their participation throughout the year.

"Yamaha is proud to be a part of the QuadX Series, and we appreciate all of the racers who participated this season," Steve Nessl, Yamaha's marketing manager said. "Congratulations to all of the class champions and especially to Dustin for his record season."

INFINITI MOVES TO HONG KONG

2011-11-02T03:58:00.000-07:00

Nissan Motor today announced that Infiniti, its luxury brand, will locate its new global headquarters in Hong Kong. The move comes as Infiniti seeks to lift total global sales to 500,000 vehicles a year, as part of Nissan's six-year mid-term business plan, Nissan Power 88.

Infiniti's growth strategy is expected to be driven partly by demand in China and other fast-growing Asian markets, which can be served more effectively by consolidating Infiniti’s global downstream functions in Hong Kong. The brand’s new headquarters will be co-located with Nissan Global Company Limited (NGL), the new corporate entity.

“As Infiniti grows its presence in the global luxury markets of North America, Europe, China and South East Asia, we selected Hong Kong as the optimum location for our new global Infiniti headquarters,” said Andy Palmer, Executive Vice President, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. “We see an opportunity to reinforce Asian hospitality within the Infiniti brand, distinct from both Nissan and our facing luxury competitors. We are proud to be the only automaker that will call Hong Kong home,” he added.

Co-located with the Infiniti headquarters, Nissan’s new corporate facility in Hong Kong will start operations in April 2012.