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Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Auto show is paradise for everyone
This auto show is paradise for everyone involved with automobiles. Exhibitors were showing off their custom builds, various parts, hybrids, aftermarket designs, paint jobs, audio systems and much more. Its also a great venue for businesses to get their names out there.
Auto Express Announce Ford Mondeo as Car of the Year
Around this time we get a flood of Car of the Year for every automotive website, magazine and publication. Some have chosen obvious cars as winners, some go for the more interesting cars.
This year, Auto Express UK has chose the new Ford Mondeo to be their Car of the Year.
Britain's higest selling weekly motor magazine chose the Mondeo as the best family car and the best estate car aswell. Editor in chief, David Johns hailed the Ford as "The new Mondeo is Ford's finest ever car,". He also stated the not just the saloon, but the hatchback and estate models also deserved the award being "been designed and engineered to the highest standards".
This will surely boost the very popular Ford top seller across Britain and help Ford with their financial worries with large debts, after needing to sell of Land Rover and Jaguar this year.
PRESS RELEASE:
NEW FORD MONDEO NAMED CAR OF THE YEAR
TROUBLED car giant Ford has been given a welcome boost by the news that the new Mondeo has been named Car of the Year.
The Mondeo was voted the best new car by experts at Auto Express, Britain's biggest-selling weekly motoring magazine.
And it was also named best in the family car class and best estate car too in the magazine's annual New Car Honours.
"The new Mondeo is Ford's finest ever car," said Auto Express editor in chief, David Johns. "Each and every model, whether hatchback, saloon or estate, has been designed and engineered to the highest standards. The car oozes quality, especially in the cabin which has levels of equipment and comfort which sets new standards for the class."
Ford - which is struggling with huge debts and facing having to sell-off Land Rover and Jaguar from its empire - beat rivals including prestige German makes, Porsche, BMW, Mercedes and Audi to the overall Car of the Year title.
Other major winners included:
Vauxhall Corsa - Best Supermini
Honda Civic - Best Compact Family Car, and Best Hot Hatch (for the Type R)
Citroen C4 Picasso - Best MPV
Kia - for its industry-leading seven-year warranty
The Auto Express New Car Honours are the result of the biggest new car assessment programme carried out by any UK motoring magazine - with over 1,100 new cars independently tested each year on a wide range of key buying criteria, including practicality, value for money, performance, handling and safety. Uniquely, Auto Express also gives every car tested a green rating for environmental impact.
This year's winners were selected in 19 classes covering every size and class of car.
Source: Auto Express
Lexus Australia Introduces Limited Edition IS 250X
With more than 5000 Lexus IS cars on the road, Lexus Australia has decided to treat us with their limited edition Lexus IS 250X.
The IS 250X will feature a limited set of five-spoke, 18" alloy wheels, "X" badging and with a one-off Vermilion and Onyx pain job. They will also be matched with a black interior.
The Lexus IS 250X will be priced at $64,390 AUD for the standard manual model and will only be available to 260 lucky owners.
Source: Lexus Australia
Maserati Release New Images of the GranTurismo
With many previous pictures of the upcoming GranTurismo, Maserati have finally released new pictures.
Maserati GranTurismo is expected to be released at the end of the year.
• Engine 4244 cc 90° V8
• Power 405 PS (399 hp/298 kW) at 7100 rpm
• Torque 460 N·m (339 ft·lbf) at 4750 rpm
• Top speed 285 km/h (177 mph)[2]
• Acceleration 0-62 mph 5.2 seconds
• Acceleration 0-400 m 13.4 seconds
• Acceleration 0-1000 m 23.9 seconds
Source: Maserati
Monday, July 23, 2007
Friday, July 20, 2007
Ford kills inline 6-cylinder
Inline 6 Cylinder Engines could soon be a thing of a past if Ford's decision to cut them by 2010 is any indication.
Citing economical and environmental issues, Ford has decided to invest heavily into the new Duratec V6 engines. According to Ford, the main concern behind the decision is the added pressure to produce a more environmentally friendly engine and due to the added increases of petrol prices.
As a result of this, Ford Australia has cut 600 jobs at their Geelong engine plant.
Ford Announces New Engine Direction
Ford Australia today announced a key step in a new product manufacturing strategy that will allow the company to achieve production efficiencies and access global economies of scale.
From 2010 Ford Australia will import a global new Duratec V6 engine, including high performance derivatives, for use in the company's locally made Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory model lines. The improved economies of scale resulting from the globally-sourced engine will offer increased flexibility to potentially incorporate future alternative fuel strategies, particularly diesel technology.
As a result, the company will discontinue its Australian I6 engine operations in Geelong in 2010. Redeployment opportunities will be maximised wherever possible and the company will work closely with its employees and unions to minimise the impact on the 600 people affected by the decision across engine operations. The company's remaining 1400 employees in Geelong and 3000 in Campbellfield will not be directly impacted by the decision.
Construction of the company's new Research & Development Centre, announced in 2006 as part of Ford's $1.8 billion Australian investment program, will continue and is due for completion later this year. Significant investment programs in new emissions laboratories and wind tunnel technology at Ford's test facilities at Lara will also continue, along with usual operations at the company's stamping plant and Ford Discovery Centre.
The decision to introduce the new engine and discontinue engine operations at Geelong follows industry-wide changes in consumer behaviour, including lower demand for large cars and the corresponding increase in popularity of smaller, imported vehicles. These changes have seen sales of locally produced vehicles as a percentage of the total industry in Australia fall from 36.1 per cent in 1998 to 19.4 per cent year-to-date in 2007 (Source: VFACTS).
"The Australian car market has fundamentally and permanently changed," said Ford Australia President Mr Tom Gorman.
"Our new engine strategy is a direct response to the lower manufacturing levels of locally produced large vehicles. Although we remain committed to our current local vehicle lines – Falcon, Falcon Ute and Territory, it is imperative that we improve our ability to respond to the increasing consumer desire for alternative fuels, improved performance, and better fuel economy while spreading the investment required across a broader base of vehicles. Importing the new engine from 2010 will allow us to achieve these goals."
The new engine will be sourced from high volume US engine facilities that are anticipated to produce approximately one million engines per year by 2011. In contrast, Ford Australia's engine operation currently produces 70,000 engines each year.
The next stage in Ford Australia's new manufacturing strategy is to improve the capacity utilisation at its Campbellfield manufacturing plant.
"We are currently investigating a number of alternatives that will allow us to return our Campbellfield manufacturing facility to 100 per cent capacity," said Mr Gorman.
"We look forward to working with our employees to ensure we can deliver on the next step in our process to continue building our business here in Australia."
Mini remains as the top used car performer says Lex
Lex has published its top 20 used cars list which reveals the models that are going to be worth the most in the second hand market.
In 2007 not surprisingly those new models that are in current short supply have the best future residual value.
Top of the used car pile is the MINI, continuing where it left off in 2006. Lex reckons that Cowley’s finest will be worth 54% of its original cost new price based on a typical three year/60,000 mile contract.
In the second and third place are the stylish TT and A5, which together with the A3, Q7 and Cabriolet put more Audis in the Lex list than any other car maker.
Surprisingly the Lex list shows the anti-4x4 lobby has not hit residual value predictions, with no less than seven in the top 20, including the new Land Rover Freelander, Honda CRV and Mercedes M Class.
Bread and butter fleet cars have struggled to get anywhere near the top 20, but the nearest are the Audi A3 (7th) and the BMW 3 series (18th) which between them enjoy strong fleet sales. Volvo’s C30 is the only true three door hatchback in the top 20 at number nine.
There is only one green entry – the Toyota Prius in 15th place, while the Porsche Boxster, for so long top of the Lex list, has fallen to 14th. This shows how a car’s residual value halo can slip when a volume of cars start to appear in the used market.
“Most used drivers aspire to the same credentials as a new car buyer, that of style, exclusivity and reliability and that’s why this list is the way it is,” said Steve Jones, Lex Pricing Manager.
“Those used buyers who can’t afford a new Mini or Audi TT may well be able to stretch to a used one in two or three years time so they will be in high demand, thus pushing up prices,” he added.
Ranking Model % of Original Cost New Price
| 1 | MINI | 54% |
| 2 | Audi TT | 52% |
| 3 | Audi A5 | 51% |
| 4 | Range Rover Sport | 50% |
| 5 | Mercedes Benz SLK | 49% |
| 6 | Mercedes Benz C Class | 49% |
| 7 | Audi A3 | 48% |
| 8 | BMW X5 | 47% |
| 9 | Volvo C30 | 47% |
| 10 | Land Rover Freelander | 47% |
| 11 | Toyota RAV4 | 46% |
| 12 | Nissan 350Z | 46% |
| 13 | Honda CRV | 46% |
| 14 | Porsche Boxster | 45% |
| 15 | Toyota Prius | 45% |
| 16 | Audi Q7 | 45% |
| 17 | Mercedes Benz M Class | 45% |
| 18 | BMW 3 Series Coupe & Convertible | 45% |
| 19 | Audi Cabriolet | 44% |
| 20 | BMW 1 series | 44% |
2008 Jeep Liberty: Price Lowered and More Standard Content Added
The Chrysler Group today announced pricing for the all-new 2008 Jeep(R) Liberty. Completely redesigned from the ground up, the mid-size SUV features classic Jeep exterior styling paired with a functional interior, increased cargo length and rear Seat legroom, and the industry-exclusive Sky Slider(TM) full-length, open- canvas roof.
The base manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) for the all-new Jeep Liberty is $20,990, including $660 destination. Two models are available: Jeep Liberty Sport and Jeep Liberty Limited. The Jeep Liberty will begin to arrive in dealerships later this summer. "The 2008 Jeep Liberty offers more value than ever before starting at under $21,000 for 4x2 models and under $23,000 for 4x4 models," said John Plecha, Director - Jeep Brand Marketing and Global Communications, Chrysler Group. "We've reduced the MSRP by an average of $1,000 and added approximately $1,400 in features and content to both models. And, the Jeep Liberty Limited sets the bar high with the most combined comfort and convenience features available in its segment."
Standard on both models is a 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine that generates 210 horsepower (157 kW) at 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 N*m) of torque at 4,000 rpm. On-road ride and handling is improved with the addition of a new independent front and new five-link rear suspension systems. Staying true to legendary Jeep heritage, the Liberty offers two four-wheel-drive systems to meet customer needs, including Selec-Trac(R) II -- the most advanced four- wheel-drive system available in its segment.
MyGIG(TM) Multimedia Infotainment System, remote start, memory seats, mirrors and radio controls, and express up/down windows are added to the vehicle's list of available features and options. Making its world debut is the new Sky Slider(TM) full-length, open-canvas roof, an industry exclusive; giving the Liberty that "Have Fun Out There" open-air Jeep experience. The 2008 Jeep Liberty has a full range of active and passive safety systems. Among the vehicle's standard equipment are side-curtain air bags, Electronic Stability Program, Electronic Roll Mitigation, all-speed Traction Control, Brake Assist, advanced anti-lock brakes and tire pressure monitoring. Available options include rain-sensing wipers and ParkSense Rear Park Assist System.
2008 Jeep Liberty Sport
MSRP for the Jeep Liberty Sport 4x2 is $20,990 and $22,600 for 4x4 models (including $660 destination). The Jeep Liberty Sport 4x2 has been reduced by $1,270 and has added $800 more content. The Jeep Liberty Sport 4x4 has been reduced by $1,170 and has added $900 more content.
The Jeep Liberty Sport comes standard with a proven and durable 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine (210-hp/235 lb.-ft. torque) that is mated to a six-speed manual transmission.
Standard on the Jeep Liberty Sport 4x4 is the Command-Trac(R) four-wheel- drive system. The part-time, shift-on-the-fly, fully electronic system provides peace of mind with available four-wheel-drive capability delivered through a two-speed transfer case for use on slippery or loose surfaces such as snow, mud or sand. Standard features include side curtain air bags; body color fascias and wheel flares; cloth, low-back bucket seats; 16-inch aluminum wheels; P225/75R16 all-season black side wall (BSW) tires; tire pressure monitor; reversible cargo floor; fold-flat, reclining second row seats and AM/FM stereo with compact disc player and four speakers.
2008 Jeep Liberty Limited
MSRP for the Jeep Liberty Limited 4x2 is $25,175 and $26,785 for 4x4 models (including $660 destination). The Jeep Liberty Limited 4x2 has been reduced by $720 and has added 2,000 more content. The Jeep Liberty Limited 4x4 has been reduced by $620 and has added $2,100 more content.
Standard features include Command-Trac(R) part-time four-wheel-drive system (4x4); YES Essentials Seat fabric; fold-flat passenger seat; power front driver seat; Infinity premium audio speakers (eight) and a subwoofer; four-speed automatic transmission; 17-inch aluminum wheels; P235/65R17 all-season BSW tires; security alarm; speed control; universal garage door opener; tire pressure monitoring system with display; SIRIUS Satellite Radio; electronic vehicle information center; auto-dimming rearview mirror; auto up-down driver window; auto down passenger window; power heated folding-exterior mirrors, full-size spare tire and 115V power outlet.
Available on the Jeep Liberty Limited 4x4 is the all-new Selec-Trac(R) II full-time, active on-demand system that anticipates and prevents wheel slip before it occurs. The system is ideal for a range of road settings including dry pavement conditions not typically suited for conventional part-time four-wheel-drive systems typically seen on competitors.
Industry-Exclusive Sky Slider(TM) Full-length, Open Canvas Roof
The all-new 2008 Jeep Liberty brings the "Have Fun Out There" open-air Jeep experience with the industry-exclusive Sky Slider full-length, open-canvas roof.
With an MSRP of $1,200, the Sky Slider roof is versatile and can be moved to several positions, including full forward, full rear or partially open to any position in-between with a convenient express one-touch switch.
The Sky Slider roof is made of a reinforced-acrylic cloth, similar to a convertible top, that is weather resistant and leak proof. The top panel nests into a weather strip seal to help minimize wind noise. The roof uses anti-pinch software that prevents the roof from moving should it detect an object in its path. The Sky Slider roof was designed and tested for safety to meet all regulatory and Chrysler Group requirements.
The Sky Slider roof is an optional feature on both the Jeep Liberty Sport and the Jeep Liberty Limited.
The Jeep Liberty is built at the Chrysler Group's Toledo North Assembly Plant in Toledo, Ohio, alongside the Dodge Nitro.
Subaru Announces Pricing on All-New 2008 Impreza 2.5i and Impreza WRX
Subaru announced pricing on the all-new Subaru Impreza 2.5i and its performance icon cousin, the Impreza WRX arriving in dealer showrooms beginning in August. The 2008 Subaru Impreza starts at $16,995 and the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX starts at just $24,350.
"The all-new Subaru Impreza delivers the best combination of driving performance, safety and fun in its class," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "The 2008 Impreza really sets a new standard for value in its segment."
With new, more sophisticated styling and two new body styles, a 4-door sedan and a 5-door model, the Impreza 2.5i and Impreza WRX breathe new life into the compact performance market. The new Impreza models deliver significant improvements in comfort and utility, while delivering the handling, performance and Subaru Symmetrical AWD that made the original Impreza such a success. Also new for 2008, is the availability of Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) on both the Impreza 2.5i and Impreza WRX.
In 2002, Subaru changed the face of the performance market with the introduction of the original WRX, a car that could deliver turbocharged, rally-bred performance in any driving condition. The all-new 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX follows that lead with an all-new breed of AWD performance car. Larger than its predecessor, the 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX now rides on a 3.7 inch longer wheelbase (103.1 inches) that improves ride, interior space and utility.
The new WRX is powered by a 2.5-liter flat-four Boxer engine delivering 224 horsepower and 226 Lb.-ft. of torque and is 50 lbs. lighter than its predecessor. The engine has been modified to produce more torque at lower rpm. With its broader and richer torque curve, the 2008 WRX delivers a smooth stream of power, improving drivability and fuel efficiency.
ADVANCED ENGINEERING
The new Impreza chassis has improved rigidity and ride comfort with the addition of high tension steel at key structural points. The new design results in a lower overall weight for the body while the longer wheelbase allows for improved ride dynamics as well as increased interior room and lower levels of Noise Vibration and Harshness (NVH).
To further improve handling, the engine is now placed slightly lower in the chassis, thus lowering the Impreza's center of gravity. In addition, the new chassis improves crash worthiness and provides crisper handling and a stiffer platform. While the new Impreza WRX remains a driver's car, the new WRX represents a better combination of capabilities, maximizing performance, and ride comfort together.
In conjunction with the new chassis, the Subaru Impreza and WRX feature an all-new double-wishbone rear suspension. The suspension allows for less intrusion into the cargo area, providing a wider and deeper luggage compartment. The new suspension also delivers improved ride refinement, decreased road noise, and a quieter cabin
MODERN EXTERIOR DESIGN
The all-new 2008 Impreza and Impreza WRX are available in two new body styles: a 4-door and a 5-door. The new 5-door design is clean and elegant, with a sweeping single curve roofline that flows into an aerodynamic rear spoiler. An all-new frontal design features the new spread wing logo design at the top of a widened grille. The new grille creates a connection to the Subaru aircraft heritage and places a focus on the Subaru star cluster logo.
Both exterior designs focus on detail touches such as the new clear rear lenses on the 5-door, distinctive curved fog lamps and an inward sweeping chromework that integrates the grille design into the bumper. An aggressive lower spoiler adds to the sporting character of the design.
The 5-door features a distinctive character line that sweeps upward at the rear, giving the car an agile look. The short rear overhang, new clear rear taillamp lenses and a vertical chrome bar combine to integrate the side character line into tail.
The 4-door Impreza and Impreza WRX are unique to the North American market. The new 4-door is 4.5-inches longer than the previous sedan and 6.5-inches longer than the new 5-door models. The extra space provides for a much larger trunk that can accommodate three Tour-size golf bags. The rear seats feature a 60/40 rear split folding mechanism that further enhances cargo capacity. On new 5-door Impreza models, the wide and flat load floor can accommodate two Tour golf bags with the rear seats in the upright position
The design of the 4-door models creates an improved road presence, with a wider and sharper front design giving way to a crisp side body crease. The rear of the 4-door Impreza is set apart by red lamp lenses and a chrome strip below the trunk line that visually widens the tail.
On WRX models, a new available aero kit denotes the WRX rally car heritage. The 5-door WRX features a rear under body diffuser and single chrome exhaust pipe. The 4-door WRX features dual chrome exhaust tips and a rear trunk spoiler.
RICH INTERIOR DESIGN
The interior design of the 2008 Impreza places a new emphasis on comfort and space. The new sweeping twin cockpit embraces occupants and brushed aluminum-look insets flow into the center stack. The center console shape adds to the airiness of the cockpit design, aided by the sculpted door panels and improved headroom. The door panels house molded recesses that can accommodate 24-oz. soft drink bottles, as well as loose items.
Despite retaining the same exterior width as the previous generation Impreza, the new 2008 Impreza features an interior with two inches more front shoulder room than before.
An available navigation and information center is the focal point of the center console. In addition to an input for MP3 players, the center console also includes video jacks that can accommodate portable gaming devices that can be displayed on the navigation screen when the vehicle is parked. The navigation screen is placed at the top of the dashboard for improved visibility and functionality. The interior of the new Impreza was designed to provide a feeling of quality with special emphasis placed on double-stitched fabrics and high-grade interior materials.
New for 2008 are framed windows that allow for improved body rigidity and provide for a quieter interior with better sealing for the windows. Larger door openings provide improved ingress and egress and the rear doors open 75 degrees to allow for better rear Seat access. The rear seatback angles have been reclined for improved rear comfort. Rear Seat legroom is also significantly increased.
ENGINES - IMPROVED TORQUE, BETTER ECONOMY
The 2.5-liter and 2.5-liter turbocharged flat fours have been modified to improve both emissions and fuel efficiency while maintaining the same high performance standards delivered by the current Impreza and Impreza WRX. Improved torque curves on the both engines are tuned for improved low-rpm acceleration and better drivability.
The new 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine delivers 170 horsepower @ 6,000 rpm and 170 lb-ft. of torque @ 4,400 rpm. Low end torque and fuel efficiency for the 2.5-liter normally aspirated engine were improved by the addition of a new intake port. Improved emissions were realized by a new catalyst system that optimizes catalyst efficiency.
The 2.5-liter turbocharged flat-four Boxer engine in the WRX delivers its maximum torque and horsepower a full 800 rpm earlier than the previous model, with 224 horsepower @ 5,200 rpm and 226 lb.-ft. of torque @ 2,800 rpm. Low end torque and fuel efficiency was improved through the addition of a new intake manifold, intercooler and turbocharger.
SAFETY
The 2008 Impreza continues Subaru's legendary safety and crash worthiness record. New for 2008 are standard side-curtain airbags and available Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC). Also standard is the Subaru Advanced Frontal Airbag System (SRS), with front Seat head / chest side impact air bags (SRS) and a driver's side front air bag that deploys according to the driver's proximity to the steering wheel, as measured by a sensor on the Seat track. In the passenger side front seat, a sensor module detects weight on the passenger Seat -- first determining if it is occupied, and if so by a child or adult -- to control air bag deployment. As part of the system, the dashboard features a new "Airbag" indicator light.
The new 2008 Impreza utilizes the Subaru Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame Body Structure with front and rear crumple zones. The new 2008 Subaru Impreza also incorporates 3-point seatbelts for all seats (height-adjustable for outboard positions), front seatbelts with electrically triggered pre- tensioners and force limiters, 4-channel/4-sensor Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) and active front Seat head restraints (Not available on WRX Performance Seats) to help reduce whiplash injury in a rear collision.
PRICING TOTAL TOTAL
MSRP (1)(2) SUGG. RETAIL
before DEST. & including
DEST. & DELIVERY DEST. &
DELIVERY (1)(3) DELIVERY
IMPREZA 4-DOOR
Model Standard Package/ Transmission
Option
2.5i 5MT $16,995 $645 $17,640
2.5i 4AT-S $17,995 $645 $18,640
2.5i Premium Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $18,495 $645 $19,140
2.5i Premium Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $19,495 $645 $20,140
2.5i Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $20,495 $645 $21,140
2.5 Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $21,495 $645 $22,140
WRX (VDC) 5MT $24,350 $645 $24,995
WRX Premium Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $26,450 $645 $27,095
WRX Premium Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $27,450 $645 $28,095
WRX Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $28,450 $645 $29,095
IMPREZA 5-DOOR
2.5i 5MT $17,495 $645 $18,140
2.5i 4AT-S $18,495 $645 $19,140
2.5i Premium Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $18,995 $645 $19,640
2.5i Premium Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $19,995 $645 $20,640
2.5i Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $20,995 $645 $21,640
2.5i Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $21,995 $645 $22,640
WRX (VDC) 5MT $24,850 $645 $25,495
WRX Premium Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $26,950 $645 $27,595
WRX Premium Pkg. (VDC) 4AT-S $27,950 $645 $28,595
WRX Satellite Radio &
Navigation Pkg. (VDC) 5MT $28,950 $645 $29,595
Outback
Sport (VDC) 5MT $19,995 $645 $20,640
Outback
Sport (VDC) 4AT-S $20,995 $645 $21,640
(1) Prices, specifications, options, features, and models subject to
change without notice.
(2) Retail prices shown are suggested retail prices only and do not
include licenses and state or local taxes. Pre-delivery services are
included.
(3) Destination & Delivery includes handling & inland freight charges to
the dealer's location, and may vary in the following states: CT, HI,MA,
ME, NH, NJ, NY, RI, and VT. Destination & Delivery to dealers in
Alaska is $795.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Mercedes Revs Up for All-New 2008 C-Class Launch
Gearing up for its August retail launch, Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) is taking its long-awaited, new-generation C-Class sedan on the road to allow some 30,000 potential buyers to get an advance preview of the new vehicle and put it through its paces. The ride- and-drive event, called The C Drive, goes well beyond the traditional driving event by literally bringing the vehicle to the streets where buyers live. The C Drive is the hands-on element of a multi-faceted integrated marketing initiative -- the largest in the company's history -- which has been underway for several months now in anticipation of the debut of the newest generation of its best-selling model line, the C-Class.
According to Steve Cannon, vice president of marketing for MBUSA, "The C-Class is literally the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand. We have among the strongest aspiration of any automaker, and this is the vehicle that allows new customers and younger buyers to fulfill that aspiration to own a Mercedes. The Mercedes-Benz C-Class models are the most youthful and exuberant cars in our model line, and now, for the first time, we'll be offering two distinct models, each geared toward a different buyer. On the one hand, we have Luxury models which will appeal to the buyer looking for the traditional luxury sedan -- their first Mercedes. On the other hand, the Sport versions offer a youthful, aggressive styling and performance that younger buyers are typically looking for. Both models provide all those attributes on which Mercedes-Benz has built its century-long reputation and with class-leading value -- a combination that we're pretty confident will put the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class on a lot of shopping lists for people who are considering stepping up to a luxury vehicle or over to Mercedes. Our marketing will reflect that."
MBUSA has been building interest in the new C-Class through relationship marketing outreach to over 1 million prospective buyers and a microsite (http://www.mbusa.com/TheNewC) on MBUSA.com which, to date, has yielded over 40,000 potential buyers and averages 40,000 visitors each week. Beyond photos and information, the microsite is designed to bring the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class to life, allowing visitors to turn the new C-Class models 360 degrees, examine them inside and out, and watch a video of what other prospective C-Class owners think about the new C-Class. Visitors can also get details about The C Drive tour and can register for their local event as space permits. The integrated marketing campaign also includes banner advertising on select third-party sites, events and relationship marketing outreach.
The C Drive
The C Drive tour will go to 11 cities across the country starting in San Francisco on August 4. According to Cannon, "We know from experience that what really convinces people that the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the right car for them is spending some time behind the wheel. The agility, performance and sheer fun- to-drive factor of the C-Class takes a lot of people by surprise. Plus, bringing the vehicle literally to the streets where they live and showing it off in venues that are familiar to them -- yet maybe a little unexpected -- really personalizes the experience, which is important to our buyers."
Unlike traditional ride-and-drive events in the automotive industry, The C Drive gives guests a chance to drive the vehicle on city streets, in addition to experiencing a closed-course route. The dual test drives allow participants to put the C-Class through its paces and experience the unparalleled combination of performance, handling and safety available in the 2008 C-Class.
To further showcase the new generation C-Class, MBUSA will be hosting events at some of the hottest social scenes around the country -- non-traditional ride-and-drive venues such as art galleries, design studios, and airport hangers. At these sites, customers will not only receive information about the new C-Class and what sets it apart from the competition, but will also be feted by companies and services which complement the C-Class lifestyle.
At each venue, guests will be treated to a custom music soundtrack mixed by on-air talent from SIRIUS Satellite Radio. Other lifestyle partners for The C Drive tour include Bon Appetit, Continental Tires, Fiji Water, Harmon/Kardon, Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, Kinerase, Kitchen Aid, Miele, Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams, Redken, Saks Fifth Avenue, Supersmile and W Hotels.
The events are free to those interested in attending, but pre-event registration through the event's web site at www.TheMercedesCDrive.com is required on a first-come, first-served basis.
A national advertising campaign is planned for early September in conjunction with full retail availability. In conjunction with the retail introduction of the all-new 2008 C-Class in early September, MBUSA will launch a national advertising campaign. A multi-tiered effort covering broadcast and print on both the national and regional levels will focus on the engineering prowess and DNA of the newest member of the Mercedes-Benz family.
The All-New 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Set to begin arriving at Mercedes-Benz dealerships throughout the U.S. on August 7, the next-generation 2008 C-Class sedan was inspired by the legendary AMG performance division and comes with a greater emphasis on driving dynamics, comfort and safety. This new model is larger than its highly successful predecessor in virtually every dimension -- about 3.5 inches longer and 1.7 inches wider with a 1.8-inch wheelbase increase. An impressive list of standard equipment includes a power sunroof, eight-way power front seats with lumbar support, two-zone automatic climate control, 17-inch wheels, Bluetooth connectivity, a central controller, and an LCD display screen.
The 2008 C-Class will be launched in three variants: the C300 Sport and C300 Luxury, each powered by a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 228-horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque; and the C350 which is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 268-horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. With the exception of the C300 Sport which features a six-speed manual transmission, the C-Class is the only vehicle in its class to offer as standard a seven-speed automatic transmission which allows for maximizing fuel economy and making the transmission's reaction time extremely fast. In September, the C300 Sport and Luxury models will be available with an all-new 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
With a lineup that will begin at $31,975 for the new C300 Sport Sedan, including a $775 destination fee, the all-new 2008 C-Class offers segment- leading value.
Ford: Galaxy's the safe MPV choice
Complementing a top five star Euro NCAP crash test rating, Ford’s Galaxy has received yet more praise for its safety credentials.
In the recently-published Which? Car 2007/2008 magazine, the consumer champions named Ford's full-size MPV as the joint winner of their annual Safety Award. Praising the seven seater, Which? Car said: “The Galaxy is one of the safest cars we’ve assessed this year.”
Tough, practical, good to drive and comprehensively specified, Ford’s flagship MPV benefits from an array of advanced active and passive safety kit. Which? Car particularly noted the Galaxy’s side curtain airbags, knee airbag and reactive head restraints designed to minimise whiplash injuries. ESP is also fitted to all models.
With the school holiday period seeing more families on the move than usual, the Galaxy’s acclaimed safety standards provide added reassurance for buyers this summer. And while occupant protection is top of the agenda, the thoughtfully designed cabin provides a first-class travel experience.
Boasting 30 per cent more luggage space than the previous model, the Galaxy is one of the most flexible and adaptable MPVs in its segment. Thanks to the innovative Ford FoldFlatSystem (FFS), with easily adjustable and individually folding second and third row seats, owners can choose from 32 possible interior configurations. All seats remain on board, but can be folded down to form a flat and vast load floor of 2.0 metres by 1.15 metres.
Offered across LX, Zetec and Ghia trims, Galaxy buyers can choose from 145PS 2.0i 16-valve petrol, two 1.8 TDCI diesels (100 and 125PS) and a 2.0 TDCI diesel producing 130PS in automatic guise or 140PS with the six-speed manual gearbox.
Galaxy's sportier sibling, the multi-award-winning S-Max, was also recognised in the Which? Car survey. Voted a 'Best Buy' in its segment, the S-Max, which comes with the option of the 2.5-litre turbocharged engine from the Focus ST, has become famed for its combination of engaging handling and seven seater capacity.
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster
The new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster combines high-tech from motor racing and the power of a top high-performance sports car with the long-distance attributes and sophisticated atmosphere of a classic Gran Tourismo car. In common with Formula 1 vehicles of today, it too is made of carbon fibre, a material that endows the vehicle with a very high degree of safety as well as extreme torsional stiffness at the same high level as the coupé. In combination with the racing-type chassis this gives rise to outstanding ride characteristics.
The maximum speed of the new high-performance sports car, which is powered by an AMG V8 compressor engine delivering 460 kW/626 hp, is 332 km/h and therefore at the same high level as the Coupé. Although the Roadster offers undiluted open-top driving pleasure in the highest performance class thanks to its fully retractable top, the occupants in no way lose out in terms of comfort or the vehicle's suitability for everyday use. Consequently, the new Roadster opens up a new dimension in refinement for open-top super sports cars.
Like the coupé version, the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster once again unites the legend of the successful SLR racing models from the 1950s with the innovative technology of modern Formula 1 vehicles from the Vodafone-McLaren-Mercedes team. Typical stylistic elements, such as the arrow-shaped tip of the Formula 1 Silver Arrow, establish a visual link with the racing cars. The SLR legend of the 50s lives on stylistically in the distinctive lateral louvers, side pipes behind the front wheels and the wide-opening gullwing doors.
The new Roadster benefits technically from the many years of experience of Mercedes-Benz and its Formula 1 partner McLaren. Apart from two aluminium engine frames, its body is made entirely of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) materials, making the vehicle an exception among high-performance sports cars. Especially for the Roadster, complex carbon-fibre technology has been intelligently further developed for the monocoque chassis. The result is low weight, exemplary energy absorption and, therefore, extremely high occupant safety as well as a degree of torsional stiffness hitherto unattained in open-top vehicles. This leads to outstanding ride characteristics of the kind otherwise found only in closed-top super sports cars.
Puristic soft top is designed for high speeds
The exceptional qualities of the Roadster are attributable also to the fully retractable top, which blends harmoniously into the flowing lines of the SLR McLaren. Its newly developed roof material, which has an interesting new look, not only guarantees complete suitability for everyday use in all weathers, but also endows the high-performance sports car with characteristics that are highly unusual in a roadster. For example, the top speed of 332 km/h with the roof up matches the extraordinary figure set by the Coupé.
The roof opens and closes semi-automatically in less than ten seconds, thereby combining the desire for convenience with the purist character of the roadster. To open, the roof merely needs to be disengaged from the windscreen frame and briefly raised, after which it folds away electro-hydraulically. The aluminium bow integrated into the front section of the roof forms a stylish cover for the soft top when it is folded down. A high level of safety is assured by steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars.
Sophisticated aerodynamics and racing-type chassis
In the wind tunnel, the Roadster has been optimised for high speeds with regard to handling, aero-acoustics and aerodynamics. It likewise employs the aerodynamic concept already known from the coupé version, featuring an airbrake integrated into the access lid and a diffuser in the rear bumper to provide increased downforce on the rear axle. In order to provide the best possible weight distribution, and therefore perfect handling dynamics and a high level of braking stability, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster was designed as a sports car with a front-mid engine behind the front axle.
Thanks to its low installed position, its AMG V8 compressor engine with air-to-water intercooling, three-valve technology, dry sump lubrication and four metal catalytic converters ensures a favourably low centre of gravity. With 460 kW/626 hp and a maximum torque of 780 Nm, the AMG V8 compressor engine, which is coupled to an AMG Speedshift R five-speed automatic transmission, catapults the Roadster from zero to 100 km/h in a mere 3.8 seconds.The open-top two-seater is equipped with a suspension that was bred on the race track, an electrohydraulic brake system, as well as high-endurance carbon-fibre/ceramic brake discs which offer optimum braking performance, thermal resistance and durability.
Unrivalled safety and exclusive appointments
A high standard of safety is ensured by unique carbon-fibre crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Other safety features include adaptive airbags, knee and sidebags, Seat belt pre-tensioners and a tyre pressure monitoring system.The exclusive standard equipment includes semi-aniline-leather-upholstered carbon-fibre bucket seats which can be individually adapted to the driver and front passenger by means of differently sized Seat pads; dual-zone automatic air-conditioning; a high-quality BOSE premium sound system; a multifunction sport steering wheel with gear-change paddles, and a navigation system with integral radio and CD-changer.The new Mercedes-Benz SLR Roadster, like the Coupé, is produced at McLaren's Formula 1 factory in , in accordance with stringent Mercedes-Benz quality criteria, and will be available from September 2007.
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