Sunday, August 15, 2010

Bentley Continental Supersports Price

In April 2010, Bentley announced a convertible version of the Continental Supersports. Pricing starts at $280,400, and will go on sale in the Summer of 2010.




The convertible gets the same engine as the coupe, but will receive a revised version of the ZF 6HP26 transmission with "Quickshift," cutting shift times by 50% and enabling double downshifts. The convertible also gets new, lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels that are 22 lb (10.0 kg) lighter than the standard wheel.


Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports



Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports



Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports

Bentley Continental Supersports
Bentley Continental Supersports




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Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Lexus Announces Pricing for All-New 2008 Lexus IS F

Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 IS F high-performance sport sedan. The IS F is the first production model to wear the new “F” badge and is the fastest Lexus production car ever built. The 2008 IS F launches onto the market carrying a base MSRP of $56,000.

2008 Lexus IS F2008 Lexus IS F

The 2008 Lexus IS F is exclusively powered by a performance-tuned 5.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower at 6,600 rpm and 371 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 5,200 rpm. With the implementation of a dual air intake system, high-flow cylinder heads with titanium intake valves designed by Yamaha, Variable Valve Timing with intelligence and Electrically controlled intake cam (VVT-iE) and other technological advancements, the engine outputs 83.2 hp per liter allowing the IS F to accelerate from 0 to 60 in a blistering 4.6 seconds and achieve a maximum track speed of 170 mph.

The IS F 5.0-liter engine is mated to the world's first eight-speed Sport Direct-Shift automatic transmission with a quick and direct special lock up clutch and a control system that enables ultra-quick manual upshifts (0.1 seconds) and blips the throttle for precision downshifts. The driver can shift manually using either the console shifter or steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters when driving in either Drive mode (D) or Manual mode (M). The new transmission blends the performance characteristics of an automated manual-type transmission with the smoothness and refinement of a planetary-type automatic transmission, allowing the driver to choose between ultra-quick manual shifts for spirited performance driving and smooth automatic shifts when convenience and comfort are the top priorities.

Tested and tuned on some of the world's most challenging racetracks including Nurburgring Nordschleife and Fuji Speedway, the IS F has been designed for ultimate performance. Although using the basic double-wishbone front suspension and multi-link rear suspension configurations of the standard IS platform, the IS F benefits from a multitude of track-proven modifications that include increased spring and damper rates as well as larger-diameter stabilizer bars. The IS F also sits an inch lower and features suspension bushings and a calibrated Electric Power Steering (EPS) system tuned for a more direct feel.

In addition to the finely tuned suspension, a specially calibrated version of the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system is equipped to provide superior handling dynamics and traction control. The IS F is also outfitted with a heavy-duty Brembo® brake system designed to the specifications of the Lexus engineering team. The 14.2-inch ventilated, drilled front rotors are gripped by rigid, powerful six-piston aluminum calipers, while the 13.6-inch ventilated, drilled rear rotors use two-piston calipers.

With new and distinctive high-performance design features, the IS F is set apart from standard Lexus models. The IS F exterior styling has a muscular stance with front fascia, hood, fenders, underbody and rear spoiler all shaped to optimize airflow management and give the IS F a signature look. Unique “F” badges composed of silver, blue and black are located on both front fenders followed by a third badge on the trunk lid. Four exhaust diffusers, stacked two per side in a vertical arrangement, are integrated into the rear bumper and leave a lasting sporty impression. The IS F continues to differentiate itself from its siblings with its 19-inch forged-alloy wheels produced by BBS® that feature a distinct dark-gray finish.

Standard amenities include heated, leather-trimmed 10-way power front sport seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, a pollen filter and smog detector; power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings; power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel; three-position memory function for front seats, steering wheel and mirrors; all power windows with automatic up/down operation with jam protection; an auto-dimming rear-view mirror with HomeLink® programmable garage door opener, SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button start, Lexus Premium Audio System with six-disc in-dash CD changer, automated rain-sensing wipers and heated auto-dimming outside mirrors with integrated puddle lamps. Options include a DVD Navigational System with backup camera, 14-speaker Mark Levinson® Surround Sound Audio System, Intuitive Park Assist, Pre-Collision System, and headlamp washers.

MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $765.

Scion Announces Pricing For xB Release Series 5.0

To Be Displayed At The 2008 North American International Auto Show

January 11, 2008 - Torrance, CA - Scion, of Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., announced today that the first limited-production Scion for 2008, the xB Release Series 5.0 (xB R.S. 5.0), will be available at dealer showrooms beginning in Feburary.

The 2008 xB Release Series 5.0 features dazzling Gold Rush Mica exterior paint inspired by last year's Chicago Auto Show xB display vehicle.

2008 Scion xB Customized

2008 Scion xB Customized

This limited edition xB features a KenStyle® body kit, new Release Series wheel covers, and a moonroof, an xB first. A color-keyed rear spoiler will also be available.

Inside, the xB features a Gold Rush Mica accented interior trim and color-tuned seat fabric. Individual numbered badging completes the uniqueness of this vehicle.

Only 2,500 units of the xB Release Series 5.0 will be built. The xB Release Series 5.0 model will carry a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of $2,470 over the base price of the xB. The manual transmission xB has a base MSRP of $15,650, while the MSRP for automatic transmission model is $16,600. The available color-keyed spoiler has an MSRP of $320.

The delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee for all Scion models is $620 and is not included in the MSRP. DPH fee for vehicles distributed by Southeast Toyota (SET) and Gulf States Toyota (GST) may vary.

A 2008 xB Release Series 5.0 will be on display in the Scion booth at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

BMW Announces Pricing for All-New BMW M3 Coupe and Sedan at 2008 NAIAS

During its press conference today at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, BMW announced the pricing for the highly anticipated 2008 BMW M3 Coupe and 2008 BMW M3 Sedan. When the vehicles go on sale in March, the Coupe will be priced at $57,275 and the Sedan at $54,575. Sharing the high-revving 414-horsepower V8 and balanced chassis designed to be "faster than its engine," this March, BMW M GmbH will offer the most powerful, best performing series production M3s to the North American market.

The all-new 2008 M3 Coupe and M3 Sedan-the fourth generation of compact sport vehicles which set the standard in minimizing any compromises between race-inspired performance and luxury and convenience-feature the first V8 in a series-production BMW M3. They also feature driver-adjustable settings for crucial dynamic controls encompassing engine response, steering, damping and stability (with an available steering-wheel-mounted "MDrive" button to store the preferences) and a sumptuous interior which can be optimized to the driver's desires including the comprehensive entertainment/navigation system operated through BMW's latest iDrive controller.

Additionally, the 2008 M3 Coupe is the first production vehicle in its segment with a carbon fiber reinforced roof. The material shares the same safety properties as steel, but is four times lighter. Weighing around 11 lbs. less than a standard steel roof and approximately 44 lbs. less than a steel roof incorporating a moonroof, the carbon fiber reinforced roof provides significant weight saving at the highest point of the car-lowering the car's center of gravity-to increase agility and responsiveness while limiting dive and roll in turns.

Racing provided the reason for the original M3's 1986 creation as the company had to produce road-going homologation versions of its 3 Series Coupe to enter the motorsports version in the German Touring Car Championship. The original M3's popularity provided the impetus to continue developing the M3, making it both a better performer and more inviting road car. The M3 has continued to evolve along with the underlying 3 Series, the company's most popular, upon which it is based.

In 1987 North Americans received their first taste of the high-rpm, naturally aspirated 2.3-liter four-cylinder M3 Coupe's 192-hp and thus was born a legend on this side of the Atlantic. The next generation arrived in 1995 with a 3.0-liter (and later, 3.2-liter) 240-hp inline-six powerplant. In 1997 the first M3 Sedan joined the family and the first M3 Convertible followed shortly thereafter. The most-recent version, available from 2001-2006 as either a coupe or convertible, again was offered with six-cylinder power, this time providing 333 hp from its 3.2 liters. This vehicle was BMW's first use of SMG (Sequential Manual Gearbox) for the U.S. market.

Pricing Announced for All-New BMW 1 Series Convertible at Its World Debut During 2008 NAIAS

Those whose definition of pure driving pleasure includes wind in the face and sunshine above now have even more to smile about, as pricing was announced today for the new BMW 1 Series Convertible during its world debut at the 2008 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. The vehicle, which goes on sale in time for summer, will start at $33,875 for the 128i model and $39,875 for the 135i model. The BMW 1 Series Coupe arrives in dealerships in March.

The 1 Series Convertible and the 1 Series Coupe follow the tradition established by the iconic BMW 2002 sport sedan. The essence of such driving purity - a responsive six-cylinder engine positioned within a rear-drive chassis to provide balanced, sporty dynamics - is at the heart of this compact four-place coupe and convertible.

The 128i Convertible will be powered by BMW's 3.0-liter, 230 horsepower inline six-cylinder engine generating 200 lb-ft of torque. Like its fixed-roof stablemate, the 128i Convertible will feature Valvetronic valvetrain management and aluminum/magnesium cylinder block construction-core elements of BMW's EfficientDynamics.

The 135i Convertible features BMW's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque from as low as 1,400 rpm. With its direct piezo gasoline injectors, twin low-mass turbochargers and air-to-air intercooler, optimum performance and economy is achieved with no loss in engine response. For the 135i Convertible, acceleration from 0-62 mph is accomplished in 5.4 seconds and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Both engines feature on-demand engine coolant pumps that improve fuel economy and reduce parasitic losses for increased efficiency.

Additionally, in a mere 22 seconds-even on the move at speeds up to 25 miles per hour-the occupants within the 1 Series Convertible can go from encapsulated comfort to top-down exhilaration. If conditions dictate, the electro-hydraulically-operated softtop can be raised within the same 22 seconds, producing a distinctive silhouette enhanced by long frameless doors. The characteristic features of the BMW kidney-shaped grill, front skirt, door sills and rear skirt are identical to those of the 1 Series Coupe.

Source: BMW

Monday, December 24, 2007

Lexus Announces Pricing for 2008 Lexus LX 570 Luxury Utility Vehicle

Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the all-new 2008 LX 570 luxury utility vehicle. The third-generation LX offers significantly increased performance and new safety features over the LX 470 model it replaces with a number of technological advancements and a new high-strength chassis.

2008 Lexus LX 570

2008 Lexus LX 570

The 2008 LX 570, with several new technology features, enhanced safety, performance and comfort, will carry a base MSRP of $73,800.

The LX 570 features a new 383-horsepower, 5.7-liter V8 engine mated to a six-speed sequential-shift automatic transmission built to handle demanding tasks with smoothness and refinement. The powertrain advancements make the 2008 LX 570 engaging to drive while providing an increased towing capacity of 8,500 pounds. An electro-hydraulic system with four-wheel Active Height Control (AHC) and Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) reacts more quickly and allows for a greater range of adjustment than the system it replaces.

With several first-in-class features, the LX 570 offers perhaps the most compelling combination of luxury, safety, on-road smoothness and off-road performance of any vehicle in its segment. The new Crawl Control regulates throttle and braking, allowing the driver to focus more on steering over particularly rough ground. In addition, LX 570 is the first Lexus to offer a new Wide-view Front & Side Monitor feature designed for use in certain urban settings such as parking garages. For enhanced occupant safety, the new LX 570 is equipped with a segment-leading 10 standard airbags and a segment-first Active Front Headrests. The optional Pre-Collision System with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control is also a segment first.

The LX 570's standard luxury features include a four-zone climate control system, a first-in-class power sliding second-row seat, and a power-folding third-row seat. Options include a 19-speaker Mark Levinson® Reference Surround Sound audio system, Intuitive Park Assist, climate control front seats with heated second-row seats, and a rear-seat entertainment system.

MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $765.

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Lexus Announces Pricing on Certain 2008 Models and 2009 RX 350

Lexus announced Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) today for the 2008 ES 350, LS 460, and IS model luxury sedans, and the 2008 RX 400h and 2009 RX 350 luxury utility vehicles.

The ES 350 entry luxury sedan MSRP will increase 0.3 percent, or $100, to $33,820. The IS entry luxury sport sedans will increase 0.3 percent overall, or $100.

2008 Lexus RX 400h

2008 Lexus RX 400h

The IS 250 rear-wheel drive model with a manual transmission will carry an MSRP of $30,555, while the IS 250 rear-wheel drive automatic will have an MSRP of $31,725. The IS 250 all-wheel drive and the IS 350 models will have an MSRP of $34,185 and $36,005, respectively. The MSRP for the LS 460 flagship luxury sedan will increase 0.8 percent, or $500, to $62,000 for the LS 460 and $72,000 for the LS 460 L.

The 2008 RX 400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle MSRP will increase 0.2 percent overall, or $100, to $41,280 for the RX 400h front-wheel drive, and $42,680 for the all-wheel-drive model.

The 2009 RX 350 luxury utility vehicle MSRP will increase 0.3 percent, or $100. The front-wheel-drive RX 350 will have an MSRP of $37,500, while the RX 350 all-wheel drive will carry a base price of $38,900.

Mid-year price adjustments on the 2008 models are effective with vehicles arriving in the U.S. beginning December 18, 2007. RX 350 pricing changes are effective on 2009 models arriving at dealerships in early February 2008. MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $765.

Infiniti Announces Infiniti EX35 Goes on Sale

Infiniti announced that the all- new 2008 Infiniti EX35 personal luxury crossover SUV goes on sale at Infiniti retailers nationwide beginning today. The new Infiniti EX offers an exceptional combination of seductive design, elegant interior and advanced technology systems -- including an available Around View Monitor (AVM) system, Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system and "Scratch Shield" paint.

2008 Infiniti EX35

2008 Infiniti EX35

The 2008 EX is offered in four models -- Infiniti EX35 RWD (rear-wheel drive), Infiniti EX35 RWD Journey, Infiniti EX35 AWD (all-wheel drive) and Infiniti EX35 AWD Journey. The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starts at $31,300 for the EX RWD and $34,850 for the EX RWD Journey. The EX35 AWD with ATTESA E-TS intelligent all-wheel drive system is priced at $32,700 and $36,250 for the EX35 AWD Journey model.

"We're pleased to be making the new 2008 Infiniti EX35 available just in time for that last-minute holiday shopping," said Mark Igo, vice president and general manager, Infiniti. "With its long list of advanced technology features, EX is a perfect companion for all the other high-tech items on car enthusiasts' shopping lists. And, with its available intelligent all-wheel drive, EX is also the perfect vehicle for holiday getaways, no matter what the weather may bring."

About the 2008 Infiniti EX35

The Infiniti EX35's sculpted elegance expresses a timeless appeal, with sleek lines that portray speed, grace and finesse. Its layout combines the look and feel of a luxury coupe and an SUV's interior flexibility. Infiniti EX35 is also conceived to offer a reinvigorating and engaging interior environment, with a long list of available features including leather-appointed seating, advanced audio and navigation systems and a power-folding 2nd row seat.

Available industry-leading EX35 technology features include the Around View Monitor (AVM) system, which utilizes four small cameras to give the driver a "top-down view" of the outside of the vehicle while parking; Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) system, which uses the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system to help assist the driver in maintaining lane position if the vehicle inadvertently starts to drift out of the intended lane; and "Scratch Shield," a special "self-healing" clear coat designed to maintain its gloss level over time and keep the EX looking new.

Like every Infiniti model, the 2008 Infiniti EX35 also emphasizes exhilarating driving performance, combining a 297-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 engine with a 5-speed automatic transmission with Manual Shift Mode and Drive Sport Mode (DSM), assisted by Downshift Rev Matching (DRM) and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), and available intelligent all-wheel drive.

Additional available technology features include RearView Monitor, Adaptive Front Lighting System (AFS) and Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC). For audiophiles, EX offers an available 11-speaker Bose(R) Premium Audio System with Burr-Brown 24-bit DAC, two subwoofers, 6CD in-dash changer and iPod(R) connectivity. Also offered is an available advanced voice-activated, touch-screen Infiniti Navigation System featuring available XM(R) NavTraffic(TM) with real-time traffic information (requires active XMR) subscription, sold separately), which includes a 9.3GB Music Box hard drive for digital music storage and playback.

All 2008 EX models offer a long list of standard equipment, including Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) subscription required, sold separately), 17-inch aluminum alloy wheels, aluminum interior trim, 7-inch color monitor display, 8-way power driver's seat and more.

EX35 Journey models add power slide/tilt moonroof with one-touch activation, front and rear leather-appointed seating surfaces, power-folding 2nd row seat, auto-dimming inside mirror with electronic compass, HomeLink(R) Universal Transceiver, front and rear sonar system and auto on/off headlights.

2008 EX35 equipment packages include the Premium Package; Luxe Elite Package; Navigation Package; Technology Package; and Luxe Style Package. Also offered are roof rails and maple wood trim.

Infiniti offers a full-line of luxury performance automobiles, including the G sports coupe and sedan, the M luxury performance sedan, FX premium crossover SUV, QX full-size luxury SUV, and the EX personal luxury crossover. More information about Infiniti and its total ownership experience can be found at Infiniti.com.

Friday, December 14, 2007

Toyota Announces Pricing For 2008 Toyota Sequoia

Sequoia Adds 105 More Horsepower With Nearly 12 Percent Better Fuel Economy and Lower Emissions

Torrance, CA -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., announced manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the all-new second-generation 2008 Sequoia full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV), ranging from $34,150 to $55,600. A 5.7-liter V8 engine is now available. In addition to an improvement of 105 horsepower, fuel economy was increased by nearly 12 percent on the highway compared to the standard 4.7-liter V8. The 5.7-liter engine is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV-II) and provides an available towing capacity of 10,000 lbs.

2008 Toyota Sequoia SR5

2008 Toyota Sequoia SR5

Scheduled to go on sale in late December, the completely restyled 2008 Sequoia has more power to provide the necessary performance, comfort, and convenience to meet the demands of active families. It is offered in three grades – SR5, Limited and the top-of-the-line all-new Platinum.

The new DOHC 5.7-liter V8 engine and six-speed automatic transmission provide acceleration and performance that will be among the leaders in its class, especially while towing. Equipped with dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), the 5.7-liter V8 generates 381 horsepower and 401 lbs.-ft. of torque, one of the highest outputs in this vehicle class.

Like all SUVs in the Toyota lineup, Sequoia comes standard with the Star Safety System, which includes Vehicle stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC on 2WD models) or Active-Traction Control (A-TRAC on 4WD models), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). Sequoia's collision safety performance is enhanced by driver and front passenger seat-mounted side and three-row roll-sensing side curtain airbags.

An all-new platform now provides interior dimensions that are longer, wider and taller than the previous Sequoia. Additionally, the second-row seat is equipped with a sliding-type seat adjuster for added legroom. This feature also provides excellent ingress/egress for the third row seat. The third-row seat has an advanced seat-cushion linkage reclining mechanism that elevates rear passenger comfort to new levels.

Form and functionality is in abundance with an array of standard features across all three grades that includes auto tri-zone front and rear defroster-linked CFC free air-conditioning; AM/FM single-CD with eight speakers, an auxiliary jack port, MP3/WMA playback capability, cruise control, anti-theft and engine immobilizer systems, eight bottle/cup holders, power windows and door locks, larger foldable power mirrors, privacy glass, overhead storage with conversation mirror, 12-volt auxiliary power outlets, a manual tilt and telescopic steering wheel, Direct Tire Pressure Monitor System, integrated tow hitch, larger standard 275/65R18 tires and 18-inch aluminum wheels.

In addition to the SR5 standard features, the Limited grade adds front and rear parking sonar, fog lamps, heated leather-trimmed seats, 10-way power adjustable driver seat, four-way power adjustable passenger seat; power fold 60/40 third row seat, JBL Synthesis AM/FM/six-disc CD audio system with 10-speakers and Bluetooth®, color-keyed running boards, and power retractable and heated electrochromic exterior mirrors with turn signal.

Additional standard features exclusive to the Platinum grade includes 20-inch diamond cut finish aluminum wheels, rear load-leveling air suspension, a power front seat memory package, heated and air-conditioned ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a power rear door, a tilt and slide sunroof, headlamp cleaners, and a navigation system with a backup camera.

The vast improvements in the all-new Sequoia are matched with pricing that is very competitive within the fullsize SUV segment, making the Sequoia an excellent all-around value. The 2008 Sequoia SR5 4x2 model with a 4.7-liter V8 engine will carry a MSRP of $34,150, an increase of $990 or 3.0 percent. The SR5 4x4 model with the 4.7-liter V8 engine has a base MSRP of $37,375, an increase of $730 or 2.0 percent. Prices for the SR5 grade with the available 5.7-liter V8 will be $35,275 for the 4x2 model and $38,500 for the 4x4 model.

The base MSRP for the Limited grade which features the 5.7-lliter V8 engine as standard, will range from $45,225 for the 4x2 model to $48,450 for the 4x4 model.

The MSRP for the top-of-the-line Sequoia Platinum grade, which also features the 5.7-liter V8 engine as standard, will be $52,375 for the 4x2 model, and $55,600 for the 4x4 model.

Thursday, June 21, 2007

2008 Ford Taurus Aims to Sell with Safety

The new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable are rated the safest full-size sedans in America based on crash test ratings, but can safety sell a vehicle?

Absolutely, says Mark O’Brien, president and general manager of Roy O’Brien Ford in St. Clair Shores, Mich.

"When it comes to choosing between our Ford cars, a foreign car or another domestic vehicle that all have a certain visual appeal, customers do ask the pointed question, 'What's the crash rating on this car?' " said O'Brien, whose family dealership has been selling Ford cars and trucks since 1946.

O’Brien says that historically, it was predominantly mothers asking questions about safety but today, safety is a concern for many car buyers.

"It's not just the moms anymore," he said. "I think it's starting to filter through all society now because today's consumers have a lot of choices. So why not choose a vehicle that will save you if you have an accident."

According to a survey conducted earlier this year by Consumer Reports, seven in 10 customers consider safety to be one of the most important factors to consider when evaluating a new car.

Ford studies support those findings, according to Ed Molchany, Ford Division communications manager.

"We've done a great deal of research to determine what factors drive overall brand opinion, and safety is definitely one of them," he said.

Molchany says that while most people expect cars to be safe, there is still an opportunity to stand out from the competition with vehicles like the new Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable. Both vehicles earned the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick rating and the U.S. government’s highest available five-star ratings in all crash test categories.

"When you know safety is one of the key pillars that drive opinion and you can lay claim to being the safest, that's not only going to help us sell Ford Tauruses and Mercury Sables, it's going to help the entire Ford brand," said Molchany.

According to Robert Parker, Ford Division car marketing manager, safety is at the heart of the recently launched print and television ads for the new Ford Taurus.

"We're going to beat the safety drum as loudly as we can and get out there with the message that Ford Taurus is rated America's safest sedan," he said.

The 2008 Mercury Sable will be launched later this summer, but the new Taurus has already begun arriving in dealerships throughout the country.

Mark O'Brien says his dealership received its first Ford Taurus last week.

"It was sold before it even arrived," he said. "The questions that people had about the Ford Five Hundred regarding its power and styling have all been answered with the new Ford Taurus. If you combine that with the class-leading safety of the vehicle, I think we've got a one-two punch here that’s going to be pretty hard to beat."


Source: Ford Motor Company

Wednesday, April 25, 2007

Price confirmed on BMW's new M3

Want to put of the UK's first V8-powered BMW M3s in your garage? You'll have to part with at least £50,625. That's the official base price of the new 414bhp M-division coupe, as confirmed by BMW UK today; deliveries will start in September.

That price makes the new M-car £6.5k more expensive than the last M3 coupe was when it was discontinued. However, it also happens to be a piffling £50 less than you'll pay for a new Audi RS4 saloon, a fact conceived to go unnoticed by few who have to decide between the two performance cars, or indeed anyone at Audi's UK headquarters in Milton Keynes.



BMW has also confirmed a few other technical details about the new super-coupe. It will, apparently, crack 62mph in just 4.8sec and hit a limited top speed of 155mph. The surprise news comes with the fuel consumption claim; BMW says, thanks to brake energy regeneration and an enhanced double-VANOS valvetrain, the new M3 will return 22.8mpg on the combined cycle. That makes it eight per cent more frugal than the last M3, as well as a good twenty-five per cent more powerful.




source: www.autocar.co.uk