2015 Volvo XC90
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First drive of Gen II SUV in Tarragona, Spain
COVERstory |
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Event
Shell Super Mileage Challenge held in Muscat
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cover story
22-27 2015 volvo xc90
Oman and regional news
6-13 Honda refreshes the Gen IV CR-V, World Press invited to Doha to test Kawasaki’s new superbikes, Lorenzo launches 2015 Yamaha R1 M in Dubai, Kia holds regional new Carnival MPV ride and drive in UAE, 2015 Bentley’s demonstrate luxury and performance in Oman, All-new 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport launched in Oman, Volkswagen Oman introduces pre-owned car division, Multimillion dirham new Porsche Centre in Dubai, Rolls-Royce awards for regional dealers, Oman Sail presented with new LR Disco Sport , First Land Rover Experience Centre in region, AlFardan Motors organizes themed event for Maserati, New Arctic Cat off-roaders launched by AlFardan, IHE to represent Kobelco excavators, Audi introduces all-new 2015 TT and S3 sedan for region, shell super mileage challenge held in muscat
NEXT ISSUE 2015 BMW X4
brandwatch
18-21 yamaha to make cars, Honda considering forced feeding the Civic, Mitsubishi to discontinue sedans? American debut for Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce, New Gen VI Camaro to be shown on May 16, Maserati says no to compact SUV, Fiat to resurrect 124 with Mazda MX-5, Forthcoming Cadillac CT6 to use mixed materials British marque Jenson to return, Chevrolet teases new Malibu sedan, Goodyear tyes envision future trends, Renault-Nissan to introduce new A-segment car for India, Hyundai introduces smart watch app for car connectivity, Deesch Papke returns to region after China stint with Porsche
First drives
28-33 2015 Isuzu MU-X 34-39 2015 Ford Expedition
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capsule review
40-43 2015 Ferrari California T
previews
44-47 Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 Concept 48-49 Hyundai Tucson 50-53 Infiniti Qx30 Concept 54-55 Koenigsegg Regera 56-59 Nissan Sway 60-61 Honda pilot
Special feature: Born for the track
64-65 Aston Martin Vulcan 66-67 Nissan GT-R LM Nismo 68-69 Lamborghini LP 750 Aventador Super Veloce 70-71 McLaren 675 LT 72-73 mercedes-amg gt3 74 Audi R8 LMS
MOTORSPORTS
76-78 2015 formula 1 news/ snippets 79 Regional motorsport news
Chicane
80 When an ego takes over
editor-in-chief Mohammad Al Taie
AL ROYA PRESS & PUBLISHING PO Box: 343, Postal Code 118 Al Harthy Complex Sultanate of Oman Email: automan@alroya.net Website: www.automan.me Editorial office: Tel: +968 22077730/31 Extn 300, Distribution: Tel: +968 22077730/31 Subscription: Tel: +968 22077730/31 publisher Hatim Al Taie
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EDITOR & GM Raj Warrior
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executive EDITOR Chandan B Mallik chandan@alroya.net contributing EDITOR Anne Kurian annekurian@alroya.net HEAD OF Design Antony Karlo photography Elvis John Ferrao marketing Sayantani Ghosh sayantani@alroya.net circulation books@alroya.net FINANCE & ADMIN Sumy Mol
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Website & IT Mohammed F Draz mohammed.draz@alroya.net Printer Al Anan Printing Press LLC Road No. 4A, Rusail Ind. Est., P.O. Box 10, Postal Code 124, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Tel: +968 24446163 | Fax: +968 24446287 alananprinting.com | alananprinting@gmail.com © 2015 All editorial content of Automan in the magazine and its website is copyrighted and may not be reproduced in any form without the written consent of the management of AL ROYA PRESS & PUBLISHING Automan accepts unsolicited exclusive editorial material, but reserves the right to publish any such material. Once published, the copyright for any such material will vest with AL ROYA PRESS & PUBLISHING
This month, the Automan team once again partners with Shell Oman’s Mileage Challenge. You could be forgiven for thinking that this is one of the least important events in the region where the number of cylinders in your engine, the volume of it and the sheer size of your vehicle seem to define your status. So you will find that small hatchbacks are only driven by housewives on a budget or Pizza delivery guys, sedans with 1.6-litre engines aren’t worth even looking down on and that the only attraction of hybrid powertrains is for the extra torque they give you at takeoff. However, if the real cost of refined fuel were to be passed on to consumers, we would see quite a dramatic change from that viewpoint. That is a likely outcome in the future as regional governments begin to withdraw subsidies, but why wait for that? Shell began this event last year to highlight the fact that they claim to be the only company in Oman that adds a fuel saving additive into the Shell Super fuel and sell it at no extra cost. That is a message that Shell is working on, but the event itself definitely helps link the brand and its fuel with an effort to beat mileage marks. This year’s event was motivating – with many more entries and a whole lot more interest, the event saw a new record for a 2.0-litre Kia Optima with 19.2 km/litre. Automan was both the adjudicator for the event as well as a non-competing participant like last year. But now that the event has gone, do we wait another year before promoting the message again? On our part, we will be marking the whole year through to March 2016 as a “less is more” year. At every conceivable point you will find us talking about the efficiency dividend of every vehicle we drive. We will promote saving and safety at the same time with messages in print and on our social network interfaces. At the same time, we will continue to give you the best from the world of automobiles, including big sports car engines. Yes, these too are getting smaller and more fuel efficient courtesy of technology and turbochargers (like on the California T featured this month).
Now, Automan is available in bookshops in the United Arab Emirates too! Get your copy or let us know which outlets you would like to see us in
Oman & region news
All-new 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport launched in Oman Oman is one of the first markets in the region to get the all-new 2015 Land Rover Discovery Sport. Mohsin Haider Darwish organised the MENA debut of Land Rover’s all-new Discovery Sport at the Al Mouj golf course last month. The Discovery Sport Launch event was conducted as part of the Muscat Act of the Extreme Sailing Series programme, which is in its seventh season. Bruce Robertson, MD of Jaguar Land Rover MENA said, “The Discovery Sport combines premium dynamic design and versatility which I am confident will resonate on an emotional level with our MENA customers. This particular vehicle has garnered a huge amount of attention globally and here in the region since the official unveiling in Paris and we are extremely proud to be revealing the new Discovery Sport here in the Sultanate of Oman.”
David Aziz, CEO - Automotive Products from Mohsin Haider Darwish, said, “We are honoured to unveil the Discovery Sport to our distinguished customers in the Sultanate of Oman. We are confident that this vehicle will exceed customers’ expectations with the start of sales.” The engineering prototypes were extensively tested in Middle East hot weather conditions in conjunction Jaguar Land Rover Engineering Centre in Dubai. Stints included off-road desert capability, transmission calibration and brake noise
Oman Sail presented with new LR Disco Sport Oman Sail team were declared winners of the Land Rover Above and Beyond Award 2014 programme. The Britishbrand represented by Land Rover’s regional manager, Johnny Amiouni handed over the keys of the all-new Land Rover Discovery Sport to David Graham, CEO of Oman Sail, during the launch event which took place on a cool and windy evening at the Almouj Golf Club on the waterfront in Muscat, ahead of the second Act of the Extreme Sailing Series. 6
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temperatures up to a sweltering 50°C. As with every new Land Rover, safety has been a key priority in the development of the new Discovery Sport, resulting in a first-in-class pedestrian airbag, autonomous emergency braking, and a state-of-the-art bodyshell featuring both ultra-high-strength steel and lightweight aluminium. The new 5+2 LR Discovery Sport range is powered by high output turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engines will be available across Oman with prices starting from RO18,950 onwards.
First Land Rover Experience Centre in region Off-road driving enthusiasts have a new facility to test and develop their skills in the region. A few weeks ago, British 4x4 and SUV brand Land Rover inaugurated their first Land Rover Experience Centre in the Middle East in collaboration with Bahrain International Circuit (BIC). The new Experience Centre will enable visitors to experience an all-terrain adventure. The facility boasts spacious grounds, diverse off-road tracks and is in close proximity to the Bahrain Grand Prix Circuit. It will also be used as a key marketing tool by the brand.
Al Fardan Motors organizes themed event for Maserati As the official importer of Ferrari and Maserati in Oman, the dealership organized a test drive of its entire range of cars in a themed event called ‘Italian Night’ from its Meydan Al Azaibah showroom in Muscat last month. “We are delighted to host our Italian Night, a magnificent cannot-miss experience and true celebration of all things Italian. Alfardan Motors is always striving to exceed clients’ expectations, therefore we hosted this culturally-appropriate themed evening to offer a taste of Italy, not only thru authentic culinary but also the opportunity for our guests to drive impressive Italian cars like the Ghibli and Quattroporte,” said Muhannad Abualia, manager of Alfardan.
New Arctic Cat off-roaders launched by Al Fardan In the midst of an impressive gathering of biking enthusiasts, Alfardan Motors launched new Arctic Cat all-terrain-vehicles which are designed to combine outstanding performance and off-road capabilities from its Wattayah showroom. The new models launched included solo-rider Wildcat 450 XC, twoseater Wildcat X Limited OS and four-seater Wildcat 4 Limited models. These extremely versatile ATVs offer an all-year-all-climate solution for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, delivering a unique off-road experience that appeals to a broader range of users with sport and recreational needs in Oman, according to AlFardan. The 272kg 450 XC solo seater is powered by a single-cylinder fuel injected four-stroke 443cc engine mated to CVT transmission. It can be ridden with selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drives. Meanwhile, the bigger 455kg Wildcat X Limited is powered by a 700cc, in-line two-cylinder fuel injected SOHC engine mated to CVT transmission. It is also offered with rider selectable 4X2 or 4X4 drivelines.
Kia holds regional new Gen III Carnival MPV ride and drive in UAE
In this region, the minivan is considered as a low priority mostly fleetoriented vehicle by many dealerships including the Sultanate. South Korea’s Kia Motors thinks otherwise and felt that its all-new thirdgeneration 2015 version of their people-carrier is good enough to be highlighted. It’s now known as the Grand Carnival and most of the region’s media [excluding Oman] were invited to a ride and drive event in and around Abu Dhabi last month. The MPV now sports many SUV-inspired features and is offered with 266 hp 3.3-litre V6 engine mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox. The new arrival competes with the aging Japanese rivals like the Toyota Previa and Honda Odyssey.
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2015 Bentley’s demonstrate luxury and performance in Oman
A fleet of brightly coloured Bentley’s 2015 models were specially brought in from Dubai last month as part of a themed exercised aimed for prospecting and familiarization. Select local media including Automan were also invited to test drive the range which now includes the new Continental GT Speed, Continental Flying Spur, Mulsanne, among others. The Continental GT V8 Speed in particular was received with great enthusiasm by customers who have traditionally experienced exceptional levels of performance in a Bentley motor car.
IHE to represent Kobelco excavators International Heavy Equipment LLC (IHE), a part of the Zubair Group, has announced that it has added to its construction heavy machinery portfolio, Kobelco branded products like crawler/excavator. “With the Sultanate progressing in leaps and bounds and numerous construction projects in full swing of operation and others in the near pipeline, the sector is one that is booming,” said Ram Mohan, General Manager of IHE. Meanwhile, IHE, which also represents the commercial interests of Renault truck in the Sultanate has launched the new C and K truck portfolio. The C and K ranges arrived in the Middle East in November 2014 and were first revealed in a hight-profile corporate meet in Doha, Qatar. Ram Mohan, General Manager of IHE said, “These trucks have been tested for over a year in Oman in some of the toughest regional settings. Oman presents the type of extreme conditions in terms of heat and topography that are ideal to test a truck to its limits.”
Volkswagen Oman introduces pre-owned car division 10
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Volkswagen Oman has launched ‘Das WeltAuto’ approved pre-owned car division, which will enable customers in the Sultanate to purchase fully approved and checked pre-owned Volkswagen cars. The specialist unit has been created to serve customers looking for for quality preowned Volkswagen vehicles. The programme guarantees buyers a total peace-of-mind ownership experience. All ‘Das WeltAuto’ approved pre-owned cars come with a minimum 12-month unlimited mileage warranty.
Rolls-Royce awards for regional dealers At the regional dealer conference awards programme last month, Oman’s Al Jenaibi International Automobiles was recognised for stellar performance in 2014. Al Jenaibi won three accolades -- Best Sales Performance vs. Target [awarded for highest overachievement in sales vs target], Best Improved Bespoke Dealer [for achieving the largest percentage increase on Bespoke revenue on all Rolls-Royce models compared to 2013], besides, Certificate of Excellence was awarded to Abdullah Balushi for an outstanding achievement in sales. Meanwhile, the Kuwait dealer, represented by Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive also received several awards including Regional Dealer of the Year [awarded annually to the dealer that performs most successfully across all areas of the business including vehicle sales, target achievements, provenance sales, and after sales. The Kuwaiti dealership also received awards for the highest year-on-year sales growth, brand ambassador for 2014 (awarded to Abbas Ashmar), and two certificates of excellence for outstanding achievements in after sales.
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Lorenzo launches 2015 Yamaha R1 M in Dubai
Yamaha has fired all cannons in the latest instalment of the World Superbike wars with the release of the new YZF-R1 and R1M. MotoGP icon Jorge Lorenzo made an appearance at Dubai’s Autodrome to pull the covers off what Yamaha is calling “the most MotoGP-inspired motorcycle ever. Rather than issuing an SP model as it has in the past, Yamaha has concurrently released an upgraded model with a new “M” designation clearly designed to evoke the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike’s mighty name. The R1M shares most of the R1’s specifications, but replaces some of the bodywork with carbon fiber to effect some 5-odd pounds of weight loss. The 2015 R1 sticks with the inline 4-cylinder, 998cc engine of its predecessors, and likewise uses the crossplane crankshaft from the last generation R1. In the 443lb bike it pumps out 200hp before high-speed ram air is accounted for, as well as 112.4Nm of torque. The crossplane layout made the previous R1 torquey to the point of excess in the lower rev ranges. The lighter R1M also features fully electronic, active Ohlins suspension that takes data from the IMU on speed, attitude, lean angle, acceleration and brake pressure in order to constantly update rebound and compression damping for the ideal ride, be it on the street or track. More advanced users can switch to manual mode and adjust everything in fine detail without getting the screwdrivers out at all. The other key selling point for the R1M is an advanced data logging GPS system that communicates via WiFi with an iOS or Android app to give riders a huge range of data about the track season they’ve just completed, including the ability to make settings changes to re-upload back to the R1M. Yamaha says this level of data availability “blurs the line between a factory superbike and a MotoGP bike.” YZF-R1M race motorcycle is a special version of the all new R1, and comes with even higher factory specification - enabling every racer and track rider to discover their true potential.
Kawasaki Europe recently held a press event for the 2015 Ninja H2 and H2R at the Losail International Circuit, Doha. The Ninja H2R is a closed course riding use only model. The Ninja H2 is the world’s only supercharged production hypersport streetbike - featuring numerous industry firsts. H2 Rated at 200hp at 11,000 rpm without ram air from its 998cc in-line supercharged DOHC engine, the H2 is tuned for greater mid range performance than the R, referencing a region that is well below its 98.5 pound-feet torque peak located at an astoundingly high 10,500rpm. The shape of the horsepower graph flat-lines above the peak figure as torque drops off, creating 2,500 rpm of over rev before the limiter cuts in. The H2 weighs a claimed 525 pounds with its 4.5-gallon tank topped, its chassis has a 57.3in wheelbase along with 24.5 degrees of rake and 4.1in of trail. The H2s are the first road bikes to use KYB’s ASO-II fork based on the Air-Oil Separate cartridge fork developed for motocross. H2R The track-focused H2R comes with carbon-fiber bodywork and higher output of 310hp at 14,000 rpm from the same H2 engine. Sporting a better power-toweight ratio [plus it is 49lbs lighter], its lightweight titanium exhaust emits an ear-splitting shriek with every quick blip of throttle followed with a compressor chirp sound when the throttle is snapped shut again. Both H2 models use the same electronic rider support suite consisting of KTRC (Kawasaki TRaction Control) and KIBS (Kawasaki Intelligent anti-lock Brake System) based on that of the 10R. Expanding on this is KEBC (Kawasaki Engine Brake Control) and KLCM (Kawasaki Launch Control Mode), the latter having three settings offering a progressively greater level of intrusion controlling wheelspin and wheelies while allowing the rider to launch from a stop with the throttle held wide open.
World Press comes to Doha to test Kawasaki Superbikes
Multimillion dirham new Porsche Centre in Dubai A spanking new AED144mn Porsche Centre was officially inaugurated for business by Dubai-based Al Nabooda Automobiles LLC. Close to 50 cars will on display across three levels. The new state-of-the-art dealership on Sheikh Zayed Road is one of the largest Porsche Centres in the world. APR 2015
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Audi introduces allnew 2015 TT and S3 sedan for region An exclusive driving experience event for members of the media proved to be a huge success with members of the fraternity signing up to test drive the new Audi TT and the Audi S3 at the Dubai Autodrome last month. Organised by Audi’s regional office, the event was planned as part of the official regional debut of the all-new Audi TT, which also made its debut in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, alongside the Audi S3. For the TT, which is in its third iteration, designers have tried to reinterpret the award winning lines of the original TT from 1998, and enriched it by adding an array of interesting static and dynamic detailing elements. New electronic innovations include the Audi virtual cockpit, which replaces the traditional analogue instruments and the multimedia monitor. The TT is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged in-line four cylinder offering 230hp, while in the TTS, power is bumped to 286hp. Both versions get 6-speed S tronic dual clutch transmission. Meanwhile, the S3 comes as a willing partner, utilizing Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system which helps to provide a better grip in and out of corners. With a 2.0-litre turbocharged 286hp TFSI engine and an S tronic dual clutch transmission, the S3 shifts the driver’s perception of how fast a sports sedan can change gears, giving them a power trip they can seriously enjoy.
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Honda refreshes the Gen IV CR-V Honda has upgraded some features in its Gen IV CR-V crossover for 2015. The SUV boasts of a wider stance with enhanced exterior styling and for the Middle East is offered in three trim levels. The new front face blends with the new solid chrome grille lamp and the redesigned headlamps contribute in giving it a rugged and tougher appearance. The LED daytime running lights come as standard and HID projector headlamps in offered in EX and EX-Leather grades. At the rear, LED combination lamps have been restyled to give CR-V a more fluid three dimensional appearance. Newly styled 17in and 18in alloy wheels are offered. The best-selling CR-V EX variant now adds 7in display audio, a 10way power driver’s seat, heated front seats, Honda LaneWatch, smart entry and push-button start. The biggest news is actually under the bonnet as the model is now offered with a new direct-injection DOHC 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine mated to CVT transmission with G-design shift. The base LX model is now offered in front-wheel-drive form. The higher trim CR-V’s optional all-wheel-drive system is front wheel biased most of the time and will send torque to the rear wheels whenever required.
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A mileage challenge with an eye on safe practices
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The second edition of Shell Oman Marketing’s Mileage Challenge saw us repeat our roles of 2014 as adjudicator and non-competing team. Automan reports. With more than twice the number of applications and a great degree more of interest, the Shell Mileage Challenge 2015 was flagged off from the Shell fuel pump on November 18th street. This was the second edition of the Challenge, with last year’s event setting a benchmark for high mileages from a stock 2.0-litre Optima sedan with automatic transmission. On that occasion, the winning team had managed a figure of almost 16 km/ litre while the team from Automan that participated as a non-competing team hit above 20 km/litre.
This year too, the event was held on the last weekend of March, with six teams having been shortlisted from a total of 180+ odd teams that had applied in response to print and social media advertisements. The six selected teams along with the support staff met during the preceding week at the Shell Oman Marketing offices for a detailed briefing that included event related as well as general road safety related knowledge, including do’s and don’ts and a possible list of penalties that could apply. The route for the competition took the teams down November 18 street to join on to Sultan Qaboos highway by the flyover and down to the Oman Dive centre by way of Qurum heights road, Wadi Kabir and the Qantab road. After a
sumptuous breakfast at the dive centre the teams headed back to the start point by way of Muscat and Muttrah right up to the Markaz Al Bahja junction and back behind the airport. The main surprise over the previous year was the emergence of team RQ as the clear winner with an average of 5.2 litre/100kms or 19.2 km/litre. We are also pleased to announce that they beat the Automan benchmark team’s average. The two winners of the RQ team were awarded a Shell fuel card for 2,500 litres valid for a whole year, each as well as winner’s certificates and trophies. All the other teams received participation certificates and gifts. Speaking on the occasion, Mohammed Al Balushi- Country Manager, Retail Sales
With one of the teams not showing up on the Saturday morning at the flag-off point, the remaining five competing teams were: Challengers Reji Johny Sirish Ananade Arabian Logistics Farid Al Balushi Ahmed Al Balushi Dubble Dutch Yvo Leonardo de Zwart Thomas Stokman RQ team Rami Jamal Ismail Qasim Al Farsi Al Sharji Asma Al Sharji Said Alsharji
& Operations said “Considering that driving is now evolving beyond a point A to B mindset, we are happy that the Shell Mileage challenge has drawn such attention from the public. With more than twice as many entries as last year as well as the first lady participant, we hope that this year’s event will help reinforce the importance of safe and efficient driving.” Raj Warrior, Automan’s editor who was the adjudicator of the event said, “It’s funny how such an important event coincided with Earth Day this year. Despite low fuel prices we expect more of Oman’s drivers to pay attention to the cost and wastefulness of poor fuel efficiency and do their best to make the change. We’re glad that the winners this year beat our team – it is a challenge to us as well.”
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Yamaha to make cars Yamaha, the Japanese firm known mainly for its motorcycles, jet skis, power equipment and musical instruments, wants to explore a new business: making cars. For almost half a century, Yamaha has been closely associated with the automotive world in more than one way, and its strength has been in designing and building compact V8 engines. At a recent press conference in Japan, Yamaha CEO Hiroyuki Yanagi has confirmed that he would like to begin building small cars for sale in the European market by 2019. The small city cars would likely be available in versions running either petrol or electric power. Its overall layout might be similar to the Gordon Murray designed MOTIV.e city concept shown in 2013 at the Tokyo Motor Show. Yanagi San envisions a 1.0-litre petrol engine developed in-house could be used.
Automan’s take Yamaha Motor Corporation is no stranger to the auto industry. It has been producing engines since 1955, and has supplied many of the world’s top automakers with powerful motors. Yamaha even served as a coachbuilder, for Nissan’s first Silvia starting in 1963 and Toyota’s 2000GT supercar starting in 1964. In addition, Yamaha developed the DOHC 24-valve V6 for the 1989-95 Ford Taurus SHO, the DOHC 32-valve V8 for the 1996-98 SHO, and the 4.4-litre V8 for Gen I Volvo XC90 and S80. Yamaha has also designed many twin-cam heads for Toyota over the years, in models ranging from the 1970 Celica to the Pontiac Vibe. Toyota currently owns a 5 per cent stake in Yamaha.
Forthcoming Cadillac CT6 to use mixed materials 18
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Honda to force feed Civic The bread-and-butter popular model for Honda is the Civic which has recently been cosmetically upgraded along with some new hardware like CVT transmission. Till now, the engine department has been overlooked and Honda thinks that time is appropriate to inculcate some trendy changes like downsizing in capacity and turbo charging. So what could be on offer? According to Honda Research and Development boss Yoshiharu Yamamoto: “Downsized turbocharging will be the base, even for the Civic.” In a phased wise introduction, the engine touted for the job is a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder that offers better fuel economy, lower emissions and the power of a naturally aspirated mill of between 2.0- and 2.4-litres. Since the current Civic gets 143hp from its normally-aspirated 1.8-litre four cylinder, a healthy power bump for the future model is more than welcome. Should all go well as planned, the new Civic with the 1.5-litre turbo could be revealed before the end of the year. Not all Honda models are earmarked for force feeding, it may be noted.
Automan’s take It’s no secret that low-displacement, turbocharged engine is the ‘in thing’ these days be it the pint-sized 1.0-litre, threecylinder EcoBoost from Ford or downsized turbo V8 in the latest Ferrari 488 GTB.
General Motors has confirmed that a mixed-material structure in the forthcoming Cadillac CT6 will help it maker it lighter and more efficient. Under the proposal, the car’s body will be mostly made of aluminium along with high-strength steel components serving as an inner safety cage for added strength on the underbody, firewall and front pillars. GM has also suggested that steel close-out panels on the lower structure create a “bank-vault quiet cabin” without the need for sound-deadening materials that are typically used to compensate for aluminium panels in the cabin. “The structure of the CT6 is one of the most-advanced body systems we’ve ever produced,” said Cadillac CT6 executive chief engineer Travis Hester. “The innovation surrounding our joining techniques have enabled us to create a vehicle structure with the highest torsional rigidity of any Cadillac while achieving one of the most mass-efficient vehicles in the segment.” The components are joined using a range of methods, including aluminium spot welds, steel spot welds, flow-drill screws, rivets, laser welding and structural adhesives. Aluminium will represent 64per cent of the body structure, including all exterior panels. Around 90kg is expected to be saved by this measure alone. The CT6 was formally unveiled at the New York auto show.
brandwatch It seems so as the Japanese brand focuses more on SUVs and hybrids. Mitsubishi Motors COO Tetsuro Aikawa has confirmed that the company is not putting any development effort into sedans. “While I’m the president probably there will be no introduction of the next-generation Lancer.” He told reporters. Such a drastic decision is said to be a consequence of the company’s renewed focus on SUVs, plug-in hybrids and allelectric models. The shift means sedans are no longer viewed as a wise investment for limited development funds. Aikawa San added further: “The second reason is because sedan, in the world, is a very high competition at the moment and it’s very difficult to come up with a profitable model.” Meanwhile, Mitsubishi has been in talks with Renault-Nissan to build a new midsize sedan, a possible replacement for the Galant. However, the idea has scrapped after Mitsubishi failed to see a favourable business case in the potential collaboration.
Automan’s take
Product head Kanenori Okamoto last year hinted that the Lancer Evolution’s spiritual successor will not be a sedan, but rather a high-performance hybrid SUV with an electric all-wheeldrive system.
news
Mitsubishi to discontinue sedans?
American debut for Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce Attendees at last month’s Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance were the first in North America to view Lamborghini’s latest super sports car, the Aventador LP 750-4 Superveloce. The Superveloce made its global debut at the Geneva Motor Show earlier and the event followed with a media and public debut in Amelia Island, Florida. In a fitting coincidence, at a related auction during the weekend, a 1971 Lamborghini Miura SV sold for $2.31 million, a new record for a vintage Lamborghini sold at live auction.
Automan’s take
The Superveloce is the new pinnacle of Lamborghini’s flagship Aventador model range - a car created to enhance groundbreaking performance and unmatched design. Its engineers and designers sought to create the fastest and most emotional Lamborghini driving experience yet, thanks to an improved power-to-weight ratio, increased aerodynamic performance, improved drivability and a track-focused aesthetic.
New Gen VI Camaro to be shown on May 16
Chevrolet is inviting Camaro fans to see the all-new 2016 Camaro on Saturday, May 16, in Detroit. The sixth-generation Camaro will cap a day-long celebration on Belle Isle, the 982-acre island park that is home to the Chevrolet Detroit Belle Isle Grand Prix. This year’s running is May 29-31. “This will be an event Camaro fans will not want to miss,” said Todd Christensen, Camaro marketing manager. “This is only the sixth time we have introduced an all-new Camaro. We wanted to share the moment with the customers and fans who have helped make Camaro both America’s favorite performance car for the past five years, and a cultural icon since 1967.” Chevrolet expects approximately 1,000 people to attend the Camaro reveal, which will also include:
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A “Camaro Museum” display of the most significant vehicles from the brand’s history • Hot-lap rides in the 2015 Camaro Z/28 around the Belle Isle Grand Prix course • Meet-and-greet opportunities with Camaro designers and engineers. • Camaro-only parking for owners The event is free, however space is limited and registration is required. Attendance will be allocated with priority given to fans who agree to bring their Camaros to Belle Isle. To register, please visit www.thecamarosix.com. Meanwhile, GM has promised to share additional details via regular teasers, revealing two details every 11 days until the whole car is introduced.
Automan’s take Teasers appearing on the net suggest an evolutionary design shift for the incoming Camaro, with redesigned headlamps and a new larger lower valance/grille. APR 2015
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Maserati says no to compact SUV
British marque Jenson to return
Maserati CEO Harald Wester has indicated that a sub-Levante model isn’t in the cards. Instead, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, Maserati’s parent company, will rely on the group’s other brands to fill the needs for smaller SUVs. “We are an extremely complex multi-brand group and to have everyone doing a little bit of everything is not the right way,” Wester told reporter. “We have nameplates that cover that ground, or that plan to cover that ground. In this business, you should never say ‘no’ in a dogmatic way, but my personal opinion is that Maserati wouldn’t want to go below the Levante in size.” This means that Alfa Romeo could fill the gap between FCA’s Jeep and Maserati with an up-scale small SUV of its own.
Almost 80 years since the Jensen name appeared on cars in the UK. Following the collapse of the car manufacturer in 2002, the newly formed Jensen Group plans to return with the first officially sanctioned model, the Jensen GT, in 13 years. The man responsible for the return of Jensen is Tim Hearley, who has held the Jensen trademark for almost four years. Hearley, executive chairman of The Jensen Group, said: “This represents the next chapter of Jensen and, as we look to the future, we want Jensen enthusiasts to help us celebrate as we unveil a completely new car and outline our plans for the future.” The Interceptor 2 will take design cues from the classic Interceptor and will advance the concept of the original grand tourer, to provide a thoroughly modern and exciting vehicle. The limited production Jensen Interceptor 2 is expected to be road ready in 2016 and will be built under an agreement between the Jensen Group and Jensen International Automotive (JIA). Hearley claims that the new Jensen GT will fill the gap between the last true Jensen, the Interceptor of 1976.
Automan’s take Commercially successful Maserati’s decision not to field an SUV in the hot compact SUV markets is not so surprising as the brand still expects to cross the 75,000 units mark on the back of the new Levante SUV. Maserati will formally unveil its firstever utility model at the 2016 Detroit auto show.
Fiat to resurrect 124 with Mazda MX-5 FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) CEO Sergio Marchionne has confirmed Fiat’s eagerly awaited Mazda MX-5-based sportscar will also resurrect the 124 Spider name after a 30 year hiatus. The Italian car maker had previously announced that it would launch an all-new roadster that shared its underpinnings with Japanese
Automan’s take
manufacturer Mazda and its all-new MX-5 in particular. At Geneva, Marchionne cleared the fact that the first Mazda-based car will be for Fiat and not for Alfa Romeo, as previously thought. Mazda will offer two engines for the Miata - 1.5-litre or 2.0-litre SkyActiv naturally aspirated four-cylinders, but it is expected
that power for the new Fiat roadster will be sourced from within FCA powertrain ranks which means that the 1.4-litre T-Jet turbocharged four-cylinder found in the Abarth 595 or the feisty 1.7-litre that powers the Alfa Romeo 4C and Giulietta QV are therefore two strong possibilities.
Both vehicles will share a majority of design features but aesthetics are expected to differ. The recreated 124 Spider is likely to carry both Fiat modern design DNA aesthetics along with a nostalgic nod to the 1960s original 20
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Chevrolet teases new Malibu sedan Hyundai introduces smart watch app for car connectivity Hyundai owners no longer need to fish out a phone from a pocket or purse to remote start, lock or unlock their car using Blue Link™. They also won’t need to look down at a phone to find their car in a crowded parking lot if they can’t remember where they parked after a sold out sporting event or a business trip. This is because Hyundai has launched its Blue Link smartwatch companion app to help owners with these tasks. The latest Blue Link app update on Google Play now includes the smartwatch companion app for Android Wear. The Blue Link smartwatch app will be available for the Apple Watch shortly after its release. “Blue Link subscribers and gadget lovers will appreciate a more convenient way to interact with their Hyundai vehicles,”
Goodyear tyes envision future trends Two groundbreaking concept tyres were unveiled by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company at Geneva, which if produced could radically change the role of car tyres in the future. Although the two tyres are concept products, the futuristic technologies stretch the imagination
said Frank Ferrara, executive vice president, customer satisfaction, Hyundai Motor America. Hyundai’s cloud-based Blue Link platform allows features like remote start and service information to be quickly accessed through devices like smartwatches and smartphones. The new app is easy to use. The wearer simply taps an icon or uses voice commands to execute remote functions. Pushing the microphone icon on the watch activates the voice function, where the driver can execute commands such as “Start my car,” “Lock my car” or “Find my car.” The Blue Link smartwatch app works with first and next generation Blue Link equipped Hyundai models and the Smartwatch app will work on wearables from Motorola, LG, Samsung and Sony. and provide a glimpse of what practical innovations may be on the horizon. The first concept – named “BHO3” – offers the possibility of charging the batteries of electric cars by transforming the heat generated by the rolling tire into electrical energy. The second concept – named “Triple Tube” – contains three tubes that adjust tire inflation pressure in response to changing road conditions, delivering new levels of performance and versatility. “These concept tires reimagine the role that tyres may play in the future,” said Joe Zekoski, Goodyear’s senior vice president and chief technical officer. “We envision a future in which our products become more integrated with the vehicle and the consumer, more environmentally friendly and more versatile.” Although these tires are future concepts, Zekoski says they represent an essential aspect of Goodyear’s innovation strategy, instilling a forward-looking, market-back mindset in the company’s research and development teams.
To be unveiled at New York Auto Show, the next-generation 2016 Chevrolet Malibu will make its public debut at the New York International Auto Show this month. The car has been designed to deliver more efficiency, connectivity and advanced safety features than ever, Using a blank slate approach, Chevrolet designers benefited from an entirely new architecture, which for Malibu includes a wheelbase nearly four inches longer than the outgoing model. That, in turn, provides increased rear legroom and interior space. Due to a higher-strength steel structure, the new Malibu is also expected to be 140kg lighter than the current model.
Papke returns to region after China stint with Porsche Porsche AG has announced management changes in the sports car manufacturer’s important sales regions and subsidiaries. Among the changes, 53-year-old Deesch Papke will be reassigned Middle East among other job responsibilities. Papke has many years of multi-market and brand experience within the global automotive sector. Initially, he worked in management functions for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Land Rover as well as for Volvo in South Africa and Russia. He started at the Stuttgart-based sports car maker as the Managing Director of the Porsche Middle East & Africa subsidiary in Dubai in 2005. From 2010 he was responsible for the Region Overseas and Emerging Markets before he assumed the position as Managing Director of Porsche China in July 2013. Welcome back! APR 2015
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2015 Volvo XC90
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ReVolvoLution!
Swedish automaker Volvo attempts to make up lost time with its all-new Gen II XC90. Automan travels to Taragonna in Spain to find out whether the mission has been accomplished or not Author: Chandan B Mallik
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olvo is back in the business of making new SUVs if one was wondering about the 12 years since the last generation of the XC90 was produced. Volvo is now owned by China’s Zhejiang Geely Holding Group since 20100 and the new ownership has given this ex-Ford Premium Automobiles Group [PAG] brand all the necessary support and infrastructure for it to move forward as a profitable enterprise. At the same time, Volvo also has strong aspirations and in the interim period right up to the launch of the Gen II XC90, has been communicating several things –among the key messages was how it was moving towards a truly unique design language and is reinforcing the strong identity. The first generation was built on Volvo’s fixed wheel base the P2 platform, and the incoming XC90 is built on Volvo’s latest scalable architecture platform which allows engineers flexibility to design various models/variants. The incoming car is longer, taller and lower than the model it replaces. At first glance, the exterior of the new 2016 XC90 visually connects with the 24
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Volvo is expecting annual global sales of about 80,000 units for the XC90 and it was likely that more buyers would come across from the German brands with its new-generation model. The carmaker expects to get at least five per cent of the premium SUV market outgoing SUV, but its design execution is crisper and more fluid than its predecessor. It is also the first family member with a distinctive new Volvo face which now comes with signature diagonal slash across its grille and squinty headlamps bisected by T-shaped LED daytime running lamps. Although,
conservative by segment standards, its design effectively disguises the sevenseat vehicle’s mass when you consider the profile, proportions and stance in particular. Even with its looks alone, it conveys that it wants to take head on rivals from German/Japanese premium brands. Build quality is impeccable and even the near production cars that we tested were almost fault free. If Volvo has aspirations to move the brand up in the class, then one of the things that matters most is how the interiors have been presented and what do they convey. The results of the investment are more than indicative and suggest a deep and thoughtful process has been proposed. In fact, the investment has begun with the appointment of Robin Page in 2013. In fact, Volvo pulled off a major coup by hiring the man responsible for designing the interiors of uber luxury cars like the Bentley Continental and Mulsanne. The Page influence is evident at every nook and corner in the car’s cabin. What distinguishes the XC90 from its German or Japanese competitors are elements in the cabin which comes with leather bound
A longer wheelbase ensures a spacious and luxurious interior focusing on comfort and premium materials. The seat design and its flexibility have received meticulous attention superbly comfortable seats, stitched leather, textured metal, and veneer wood finishes with Scandinavian touch. The Mitsubishi-supplied touch screen responds quickly to tablet-style commands—not only tap but also swipe, pinch, and even stretch. We found it quite intuitive compared versus the soon-to-be-outdated systems based on knobs and cursors. In terms of accommodation, depending on market it will be sold as a five or seven seater with the latter option for ME. In general, the ergonomics are spot on irrespective of the trim level. Driver gets a good driving position and hugely adjustable seat and steering wheel. Like a family MPV, there’s ample room in the second row split-fold seats [40/20/40] which also slide allowing comfortable access to the third row. The third row seats, unlike many vehicles who design them for young children, is the same-size seats as those in the second row. Head and leg room in all rows are both fine for adults. With all seats up, there’s small cargo space available. The car offers cargo space of 368litres with all three rows in place, 1,019litres with the third row
stowed and 1,900litres with the second and third row folded flat. The powertrain of this car is the first example of how Volvo plans to move forward not only with the XC90 but the entire range of its new models which will benefit from the new strategy announced in 2011 that are to be based on a common 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine block. These engines are forced fed and depending on model [T6 or T8 “Twin Engine” plugin hybrid model], the application is slightly different. In the T6, the engine produces 320hp and in the T8 where it is coupled with 80hp electric motors, the combined output available is 400hp. The hybrid model boasts CO2 output of just 59g/km. Both set-ups use direct injection and interestingly a combination of supercharging and turbocharging instead of two turbochargers or just a supercharger alone and the reason for this is that the former combination has allowed Volvo engineers to virtually guarantee a refined attitude and finer control of the hardware. The engine is mated to 8-speed automatic transmission. In the first year of launch all XC90s are
AWD models [2WD models will join later] and the 4x4 system uses an actively managed Borg Warner multi-plate clutch. The new XC90 hasn’t yet been rated by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, but its designers indicated that they expect it to receive the same top ratings that its predecessor did. The car will be offered with various trim levels. Even the base model is well-kitted. The base Momentum model includes all-wheel drive, the panoramic sunroof, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and third-row seating as standard kit. Driving impressions The car we tested and spent most time was the T6 variant and if one visualized that a 2.0-litre four-cylinder would be inadequate and under perform in a sevenseater SUV which weighs over 2,000kg, then there’s a super surprise in store out here. The powertrain set-up and the way it has been calibrated for the job is nothing short than outstanding and we are sure on the merit of its class leading performance it will win the hearts of the APR 2015
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die-hards comfortably. Our drive from Le Meridian RA hotel in Tarragona to the country side via motorways and mountain roads gave us ample opportunities to enjoy the capabilities of the car. In fact, the XC90’s performance is so spirited that it should have been presented as a sports activity vehicle [SAV] instead of just a lifestyle SUV. The T6 petrol engine is a charming unit across the rev band, with lots of power available and virtually no turbo lag whatsoever. The exhaust note is throaty and it even blips when driving in sports mode. The car’s secondary and high speed motorway performance was pretty impressive in terms of brisk acceleration, automatic gear shifting, gear hold complemented by a superb chassis. The steering is pleasingly smooth and linear and offers well weighted and calm performances, while straight-line stability is solid. However, we did feel at times the gearbox appeared to be a bit slow to respond to downshifts but it was quick to respond to the upshifts. The noise, vibration and harshness measures kept the cabin quiet, with most of the noise coming from the road. While the car’s hardware for all-wheeldrive is more road biased, it ensures the car can be used on trail routines also. But, as with these kind of set-ups in the 26
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class, they not designed to do serious off-roading because the preferred setup would be mechanical with driver selectable terrain features, but not having it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be a handicap in cars like the XC as most of competition -- BMW X5, Mercedes ML, Audi Q7 among others all engage similar AWD technologies which apply electronic control software on the fly. The key reason why the drive feels so refined is that in the Gen I XC90 SUV, Volvo was basically using an older design, but for the XC90 it has ensured that none of the quirky features of Gen I are carried forward. Hence, this car gets a properly designed independent front wishbone system, which keeps the front wheels more correctly orientated when cornering, and a five-link rear, with an unusual carbon/GRP transversely placed rear spring, which has been chosen because it’s compact and has built in anti-roll characteristics. Despite being a big car, the weight on the driver’s steering wheel is hardly felt. It feels light off-centre, but gets heavier upon sharper turn-in, and feels as responsive as some of its competitors, notably the X5 or X4. The turn-in is also commendable and on both accounts far superior than what one gets in truck-
based SUVs. Volvo engineers told us that when developing the XC90, they looked at the Volkswagen Touareg, Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5 [all road-biased SUVs] in particular and worked out the wade depth (450mm), ground clearance (238mm) and approach, departure and breakover angles (24˚, 21˚ and 23˚respectively). In general, the car is comfortable for most occupants [third row included]. Driver gets a command view but the A-pillar can be appear obtrusive for some drivers and those who might worry about the blind spot arrangements will be once more assured that safetyconscious carmaker has endowed the car with the usual array and more in terms of kit and application – ranging from blind spot warning, 360-degree cameras, lane departure warning among other features. Interestingly, two new world first safety features have been included -- automatic braking in intersections if a car drives into the path of travel from another angle, and Run Off Road Design, which works to keep occupants safe if the car goes off the edge of the road. That feature includes safety-belt pre-tensioning and crushable supports in the front seats to absorb crash force energies.
Verdict Volvo has entirely reinvented the XC90 SUV. It now adds a new level of quietly sophisticated design, comfort, and efficiency to Volvo’s long-established values of safety. Middle East deliveries will begin in July. The second-generation incoming model is more expensive than the outgoing entry level XC90, as Volvo takes the model further upmarket. On arrival, the T6 Momentum trim entry level variant will be priced at US$ 599,00.00 in GCC markets. Standard features across the XC90 Momentum range include a 9.3in digital instrument cluster, 19-inch alloys, leather upholstery, active high-beam headlights, four-zone climate control, satnav, front collision mitigation warning, rear-view camera with front and rear parking sensors, lane departure warning and keyless start.
At launch, the XC90 T6 [nonhybrid] will get a turbocharged and supercharged directinjected 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine making 316hp and 295 lb-ft of torque
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2015 Isuzu MU-X
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Maximising potential Isuzu expands its footprint in the Sultanate with its diesel-engine powered D-MAXbased all-new 2015 MU-X passenger SUV. Automan takes the car for test and discovers its true colours Author: Chandan B Mallik | Photography: Elvis John Ferrao
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ven in this day of age where technology application in cars has almost become like rocket science, very few carmakers can claim top marks in the old art of amalgamation when it comes to building cars. Japanese brand Isuzu is better known for commercial vehicles and diesel engine production. Isuzu, in the past has made sedans and SUVs, the last one being the Rodeo/ Trooper SUVs, which were discontinued over a decade ago. In Oman, besides selling large trucks, the brand has a sizable presence in small utility pick-up segment with its Thailand-built D-MAX. Now, the brand has expanded the model range and in a way returns to its passenger car/SUV heritage with the launch of another Thai-built seven-seat passenger SUV called MU-X. To build the SUV, Isuzu, very much like Toyota, has adopted the latter’s IMVplatform approach [Fortuner SUV/ Innova and Hi-Lux models] in creating the incoming MU-X which basically means it gets its tried and tested truck-like ladderframe chassis from the co-developed with GM Colorado/Trailblazer and close to home its very own D-MAX. In styling, there are influences from both brands and hence to keen observers, there’s more than a passing resemblance with the familiar Trailblazer, with some exceptions, of course. The Isuzu nose design includes a
large chrome grille and the colour palette is said to be unique, as well as a straighter character line. Evidence of some shared components are there, prominent among them identifiable by keen observers would be the bonnet and front doors from the D-MAX. With dimensions like 4,825mm for length, 1,860mm for width [without mirrors] and 1,830mm height on a 2,845mm wheelbase lends this tall vehicle with pleasant proportions. For a 4x4, it has got generous ground clearance of 230mm and off-road capable generous approach/departure angles of 30.1˚/25.1˚ respectively. The design cum functional constraint seems to be the lower rocker panel area which designers have tried to offset with a fixed runner board which we found to be more cosmetic than functional when getting in and out of the car. The cabin of the seven passenger car can be best described as being more functional than luxury with vast expanses of grey hard plastic in the base trim. In higher spec models, leather is also offered. Accommodation is comfortable with good head and knee room and the test vehicle supplied came with cloth trim. The MU-X offers three row seating and the rear seats both split-folding for rear access and exit. We also counted at least 12 cup-holders and generous handout of storage areas. Even there’s even a stowage box for knickAPR 2015
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Under the bonnet is an aluminium-alloy, common-rail direct injection 2.5-litre fourcylinder turbo-diesel engine with 136hp and 380Nm of torque matched to a five-speed Aisin supplied automatic gear box. knacks in the cargo bay. The SUV comes with full size spare well conveniently tucked under the chassis. The dashboard is pretty standard in design due to its pick-up origins and the dot matrix type of digital displays which convey information are bit old fashioned by today’s benchmark standards. Interestingly, we noted that the narrow seat anchors liberate more foot-room for rear occupants. The test vehicle was not fitted with satnav, but it is available in higher spec models sold elsewhere. Mod cons include Bluetooth connectivity, 12v power sockets and manual airconditioning. Where the car differs in the Middle East world of over petrol dominated models,
is in its powertrain set-up, engine in particular. Like the D-MAX, the MU-X is offered in diesel only and in our region we can point out a handful of popular diesel SUVs sold in the Sultanate – Toyota Prado/ Land Cruiser, Audi Q7, Porsche Cayenne which are packaged with individual job descriptions in mind. In this respect, the MU-X would sit somewhere in-between this minority and slowing growing club. The MU-X for Oman is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder in-line 2,499cc direct injection intercooled DOHC engine which offers 136hp at 3,400rpm and around 320Nm of torque between 1,800-2,800rpm. Gearbox is Aisin supplied 5-speed automatic with Tiptronic manual function. The car also comes with genuine
4x4 hardware and low, high range selectors in 2WD/4WD set-ups. Like the modern Land Rovers, there’s a rotary switch conveniently located at the base of the central console for this. Despite its pick-up underpinnings, the suspension package is modern and consists of independent set-up with coils and gas shock absorbers up front, while at the rear is a multi-link coil arrangement instead of leaf spring. The steering is hydraulic-assisted as opposed to electric-motor assisted. Active and passive safety features include stability control and brake assist, 300mm front and 318mm rear discs (ventilated up front) and dual-front airbags with pretensioner type seat belts.
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Driving impressions The diesel-powered SUV starts off a bit slugglishly on road when compared to a petrol equivalent. Although, there’s very little turbo-lag evident, the low-end of the rev band spreads out the torque evenly as it gathers momentum. The engine is bit noisy initially, and just off-idle the turbocharger whistle becomes audible. Once settled, the 2,060kg MU-X actually accelerates well enough to keep up with everyday traffic, and it does so with surprising efficiency too. Actually, the gear ratios are kept with fuel efficiency in mind, which reminds of the D-MAX fuel efficiency feat of driving on a single tank of fuel from Oman to Bahrain via UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar approximately three years ago. The fuel indicator hardly drops! On the move it seems comfortable and the car doesn’t really like to be pushed around as one does with a sports-SUV/ SAV. In general, on-road performance is acceptable considering it is a diesel, thanks to a compliant suspension and nice ride feel. Things change when you arrive at a corner, however and it starts with the steering – which we were expecting to be reasonably direct – takes a long time to respond to the driver’s input and constantly reminds one of its commercial 32
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truck origins. This aspect is once again noted when parking or driving in tight areas. Apart from these niggles, the brighter side is that road imperfections are handled very well and hence elevates the performance to a newer level for the segment it represents. The cabin is mostly rattle-free, however, some engine noise can be heard time to time. At 100km/h, the engine is ticking at 1,800rpm and from here whether you downshift or upshift, there’s plenty of torque available .As expected the hydraulic-assisted rack-andpinion steering feel is on the heavier side and can be tiring for those not familiar with truck-based SUVs. Considering that the D-MAX pick-up has mixed usage [on- and off-road], we were very keen to see how the full-bodied version [i.e. the MU-X] fared in offroad situations. The surprise element of this car became clearer when it is taken off-road. The high riding position, good overall view, lockable, low-range capable four-wheel drive system adds a hardcore layer of genuine performance that many competitors simply can’t match. We didn’t have to deflate tyres and just drove into the sand dunes without hesitation after engaging the appropriate range selector. What is lost
in horsepower is made up with torque and this car’s off-road performance is highly commendable, thanks in part to its entertaining 320Nm torque spread, which means the car will overcome most off-road obstacles/situation with relative ease. What we also liked that unlike many soft-off roaders which rely on hyper active electronic nannies to maintain traction, the MU-X just digs in and gets on with it. Even without engaging descent control, by just selecting low-range, and engaging first gear in manual the car can crawl up or descend steep dunes comfortably aided by a suspension that allows wheels to articulate as required. Verdict The Isuzu MU-X may look and feel like a family car inside and out, but there’s no hiding its commercial origins during a drive. The icing on the cake is its outstanding fuel efficiency and off-road capabilities. On one hand, for users of the D-MAX in particular, it makes great sense to have a full bodied SUV with familiar underpinnings and on the other side invite potential customers who want reasonably efficient vehicle without excessive lifestyle trappings.
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2015 Ford Expedition
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Expedition Boosted! Ford has chosen an interesting path, when come to the evolution of its large SUV, the Expedition for 2015 Author: Chandan B Mallik | Photography: Elvis John Ferrao
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he global market for large or full-size SUVs may have impacted due to economic uncertainties for a while, but major players [American brands mainly] haven’t given up hope altogether despite the difficulties they have faced on ground. Instead, several automakers have successfully countered the downslide to some extent by adopting various interesting approaches in the attempt to keep these large barges active in the minds of punters. In a way, the improvements carried out in these SUVs is good for customers who really want to enjoy these former utilitybiased vehicles which are now better built, have more car-like luxury features and performance/efficiency gains. Well, it was the latter course that Ford has adapted since 2011, particularly with the success from its EcoBoost technology applications ranging from small cars to large pick-ups [see box]. Expedition’s competitors in the US and in Middle East in particular include GM’s recently redesigned Chevrolet Tahoe and Silverado, and the revamped GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. These GM units are now more refined, quieter, come more stylish interiors, more features, and a fuelsaving engine line-up. With Ecoboost, Ford has demonstrated that downsizing in displacement works and in the process the technology can be applied from pint-sized three-cylinder 10-litre engines right up to 3.5-litre V6 set-ups. In short, this is the new mantra APR 2015
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from Ford these days. Just when it almost looked like Ford was writing off its full-size truck-based SUV completely, this technology application in a way gives the Expedition a new lease of life besides a genuine career extension. The Expedition still remains based on the older Ford F-150 [the next generation 2016 F-150 we know is going radical in a new direction with a lightweight aluminium construction] and for 2015, it gets more than just a cosmetic refresh. Visually, the 2015 Expedition tries to use the best of its carryover profile and cosmetic improvements attempt to make it look contemporary. There’s a thick new chrome strip running across and gives the impression of a visually lower SUV while wheel sizes now range up to 22in. Exhaust pipes are also now chrome-tipped. While, the cabin is largely carried over from the existing Expedition, from a design and functional standpoint, the accommodation is plush as new upholsteries have been added, and the Platinum model’s trim has been upgraded for more contrast and character. However, the biggest change apparent is the MyFord Touch infotainment system which has been
installed in the dashboard’s car-like central console. Now, it comes with an eight-inch screen, two new, smaller full-colour 4.2in screens either side of the steering wheel. The driver facing instrument cluster is typical of what Ford is offering these days in its cars. One feature we liked in particular was the lowered cargo floor that’s much easier to load now. The biggest news, however, is that it now comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine that has replaced the outgoing car’s 5.4-litre V8. The twinturbocharged 3.5-litre V6 offers higher outputs [55hp and 55lb-ft of torque] than the outgoing V8 set-up. The biggest difference between the forced fed V6 and normally-aspirated V8 is that the EcoBoost’s maximum torque is delivered over a broader range of engine speeds compared to the relatively “peakier” V8, which means it translates to greater power at a lower rpm. The V6 engine is rated at 365hp with 420lb-ft of torque. Ninety per cent of the torque is available between 1,750-5,000rpm. The V6 is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Also there’s some powerto-weight advantage expected as a result of the lighter powertrain.
In tune with the market’s demand for more comfort in the ride quality, Ford has developed an optional continuously variable damper system specifically for the Expedition and it comes with three driver selectable chassis modes. The system is paired with a version of Ford’s electric power steering—also new to the Expedition to allow individual performance characters. Ford hasn’t been crash-tested the Expedition in many years so we don’t the latest info of its performance in that department. However, for 2015, Ford has added a radar-based Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) with crosstraffic alert. A rearview camera system is also included in the package. Driving impressions For a relatively large passenger vehicle like the Expedition, more than horsepower numbers it is the availability of generous and consistent torque on demand is what matters as the driving characteristics of this SUV is different to say a sedan or performance car. Since the V6 Expedition weighs a shade over 2,500kg, we are looking at enough torque for a quick start from standstill plus enough for cruising around at legal
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speeds without taxing the engine too much. After driving the SUV for a few kilometers on asphalt, we realized that it is exactly what the engineers at Ford have programmed the powertrain to do so. At say 2,000-2,500rpm, the SUV is comfortably doing 120km/h and we are told that it is programmed to maintain 90 per cent of peak torque from 1,700rpm to 5,000rpm. This means that most operative conditions are factored in. During the drive in the Sultanate, we discovered that the twin-turbocharged V6 has no problem in moving the Expedition’s hulk, and that too with authority. Even at low revs, the engine transitions into boost readily and linearly, so there’s ample torque on tap to play with. This attitude makes the Expedition readily comfortable with the driver. At low-speed corners, we did note that the transmission seems to operate in a gear or two too high. This is not an impediment to the driving experience as we are aware that the transmission
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gearing is calibrated in favour high ratios in order to reduce fuel consumption. Although, the new Expedition is tall, it doesn’t wallow like the older machines, thanks to its suspension set-up, particularly, at rear. Although the vehicle offers a comfortable ride, the shift in weight from rear to front is hardly felt as the chassis appears extremely compliant, thanks in part to the new continuous-damping suspension system which not only makes the car more comfortable, but also quiet as it absorbs most of the road imperfections even before it reaches the cabin. And despite being boxy in profile, NVH management is impeccable. The multimode driver selectable damping system offers three distinct levels of ride control. The softest of the three modes is Comfort. In this mode, the Expedition literally glides over road imperfections skillfully. We tried the other two modes also and the best way we can describe the system’s effectiveness is that they make this huge SUV feel and drive like a smaller
vehicle. The new electric power steering is appropriately geared and frictionfree, but can feel numb at times. Unless, you are driving a hyper sports car like the Mustang, this is of least concern out here. Off-road enabled gadgetry [high and low range selectors] also helped us getting through trails. Although the surface was rock strewn with loose gravel mostly, the SUV’s ground clearance even in stock form requires no modification even when going off-road. Overall, driving the Expedition is not a tiring affair anymore. Verdict The Expedition is one of the few fullsize, truck-based sport-utility vehicles currently available on the market and for a model that has been generally carried over mostly unchanged since 2007 [last refresh], the 2015 Expedition has been brought fully up to the expectations of a new decade of SUV shoppers with significant engineering and powertrain upgrades besides the usual array of refinements.
What does this technology mean and why Ford is banking on it? Ford produces EcoBoost [turbocharged with direct injection] engines ranging from 1.0-litre 3-cylinder right up to 3.5-litre V6. Blue Oval introduced the 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 to the F-150 pick-up line for the 2011 model year. The engine uses twin, parallel mounted turbochargers, which more than compensate for the engine’s relatively small displacement. This turbocharged engine outperforms the standard 5.0-litre V- in both horsepower and torque, while providing a significant increase in fuel economy. The engine is rated at a maximum 365hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, and maintains 90 per cent of peak torque from 1,700rpm to 5,000rpm. Four wheel drive models can achieve up to 21 mpg on the highway, while two wheel drive pick-ups are rated at a slightly higher 22 mpg. Direct injection, similar to that used in diesel engines, allows for a 10:1 compression ratio and the use of regular, low octane gasoline without the risk of detonation.
Ford and Ecoboost
Automan’s take The engine’s performance characteristics prove that forced induction can be a replacement for displacement - power when you need it and fuel economy when you don’t. While there was some skepticism when the engine debuted, its popularity can be deemed a success for Ford, who has employed extensive resources in the development of the EcoBoost engine family platform. While few expected the EcoBoost to be the backbone of the F-150 engine line-up, but that’s exactly what it is. It carries the F-150’s highest tow ratings, and is the engine Ford highly recommends for the toughest jobs. With the EcoBoost, Ford has proven that you can indeed get more from less. The success of the 3.5-litre EcoBoost in particular has led Ford to develop a smaller 2.7-litre version for the 2015 F-150, which aims to increase fuel economy without making significant sacrifices in performance.
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2015 Ferrari California T
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Author: Chandan B Mallik | Photography: Elvis John Ferrao What is it? The California is a grand touring sports car which has been produced as a two door “2+2” hard top convertible. The California represents a new, fourth model range for the company. How is the California T different? The Ferrari California T is an update of the 2008 MY California. It features new sheetmetal, new interior, a revised chassis and most of all a new downsized in displacement turbocharged engine and improved transmission. It was first unveiled on the web and subsequently it debuted at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show. The ‘T’ in the badging stands for Turbo and this model replaces the normallyaspirated variant. Sheet metal and design: recognizable as the California, Ferrari designers have been quick to address design niggles associated with the older car. As a result, while maintaining a similar profile, the
detailing has been replaced with simpler lines. Ferrari claims that every panel has been changed and it’s at the front and at the rear where the changes are mostly visible. The folding metal roof remains and does its job in 14sec, but only when the car is at standstill. What’s the USP and why? Like all Ferraris, the California T boasts cutting-edge technological solutions that make it absolutely unique. The most notable engineering feature is the new turbocharged V8 engine. Turbo technology is not new for Ferrari and it has a place in Prancing Horse’s engineering tradition. Iconic Ferrari models using turbo charging included the GTO of 1984 and the F40 of 1987. Key features An aluminum-intensive chassis which lighter, thanks to “cutting-edge aluminium fabrication techniques and
construction technologies. Technical features are matched by a new, even more extensive choice of colours developed by the Ferrari Styling Centre, including two-tone finishes, threelayer paint technology and modern re-interpretations of classic colour schemes which increase the exclusive personalisation possibilities even further. Contemporary features which you will not get include stalk indicator levers, a gear shifter, head-up display or manual parking brake. These are either relocated or use different management systems. Modern conveniences include airconditioning, infotainment systems, satellite navigation. Driver gets a large in the face yellowdialed analogue tachometer in the centre of the instrument panel. Either side are LCD screens which offer a multitude of information via graphics. Gear selection and launch control is via push buttons located on a purpose built floating console.
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Special features: The Turbo Performance Engineer (TPE): This is a digital gauge placed between the two air vents at the top centre of the dashboard. It comes with a digital display and uses touch-sensitive surround for scrolling. It provides pointers on making the most effective use of the new engine’s performance. The TPE is activated by a prolonged three-second tap of the screen. It has five different displays: time, exterior temperature, turbo pressure, plus two others that highlight the distinguishing characteristics of the new turbocharged engine. Turbo Response (TR): indicates the percentage of the maximum engine response available to the driver depending on engine revs. For instance, if the driver uses the gears and accelerator pedal to push the engine to over 4,000 rpm, he will have a very high percentage of engine response (80-90%): really flooring the
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accelerator will deliver instant engine response and thus acceleration. Turbo Efficiency (TE): indicates the percentage of maximum efficiency at which the engine is running (maximum efficiency being the maximum torque obtainable by the car for a given fuel consumption level or a given quantity of petrol used) which the driver has available related to the rpm. Steering wheel: quite high tech in its execution without losing its humanmachine interface qualities. Ferrari says that has been improved with the adoption of the steering wheel-mounted controls and paddles set more closely behind for greater ergonomy, particularly in sportier, press-on driving. Column stalks are absent and all the main controls are now on the steering wheel spokes. The F1 paddles are longer and more flush to the steering wheel rim for more rapid gear shifting.
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F1-Trac traction control: Ferrari has upgrading the ESP system which now integrates new electronic systems, not least Ferrari F1-Trac traction control, for more efficient management of the significantly greater torque delivered by the turbocharging. A solution that allows the car accelerate around 8.5 per cent faster out of corners.
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Exhaust sound management: to ensure that the California T sounds like a proper Ferrari V8, engineers also put huge effort into giving the new turbo engine a 42
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Driving impressions The turbocharged engine is mapped in such a way that it actually offers the best of both worlds – smooth power transition and fuel efficiency. The engine utilizes small turbos and a variable boost management system that offset and possibility of a turbo lag. In normal driving conditions [comfort mode] the car sticks to its role as a grand tourer and doesn’t feel as aggressive nor does it attempt to overwhelm the driver. Gear shifting in automatic mode is smooth and the downshifting is rapid and often accompanied by a blip from the exhaust.
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Innovation and interesting technologies
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Under the bonnet: resides a new directinjection downsized 3,855cc V8 twin scroll turbo charged engine. It produces 552bhp [vs 453 bhp from the normally aspirated 4.3-litre] at 7,500 rpm and 755Nm at 4,750 rpm. The engine is mated to an improved 7-speed dual clutch gearbox with Tiptronic function.
full on treatment. Vital to the end result were the flat-plane crankshaft and an exhaust header made from welded caststeel components with equal-length pipes which boost combustion harmonics and the quality of the exhaust sound.
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Suspension improvements: New damping technologies: the car gets the very latest evolution of the magnetorheological damping system which has a faster ECU to modify the magnetic field in the dampers, as well as new Ferrari-patented software that also avails of three new sensors on the car body.
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Aerodynamics: The California boasts a drag coefficient of Cd=0.32 and this aspect makes it the most aerodynamic Ferrari ever made with the exception of the Ferrari F12berlinetta.
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Variable Boost Management: by far, one of the most innovative features of the new V8 Turbo is Variable Boost Management. This is a new control system integrated with the ECU which adjusts torque delivery to suit both the revs and gear engaged. As the car goes up through the gears, the amount of torque delivered
The system allows the driver to override and engage manual paddle shifting. In Sport mode, there’s extra torque available and the gears hold a little longer. Also the chassis tightens up. The springs used in the car are 11per cent stiffer, and the steering comes ith a 10 per cent quicker rack and Ferrari’s F1-inspired traction control system which is better suited to turbocharged engines. Since, the new engine sits 40mm lower than the old engine did and the whole car is 20mm lower than before, the road holding therefore is definitely influenced. Unlike, many other turbocharged cars, there’s no hint of turbo whine. The weight of the steering is perfect and the feedback to the driver is gratifying, thanks to lower steering wheel activity and quicker steering courtesy of a new steering box and new suspension set-up. Brakes also do their job very well. And it’s pretty fast too, top up or down – it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.6secs flat and from 0 to 200 km/h in 11.2secs. While acceleration out of corners is awesome, so is the vice like grip from the tyres, but it feels neutral also. At high speeds, some wind noise may filter in the reasonably well insulated cabin when the top is up. How to extract the most out of the California T? Well, it’s up to the driver when it comes to extracting performance from this forced fed machine. The best performance comes when the car is in sport mode and driven using the steering mounted paddle-shifters. The trick is to engage a lower gear in slightly higher rev band [3,000-3,500rpm] and then throttle hard. The response to this manoeuvre is just amazing. Verdict A highly enjoyable convertible and there’s no arguing that the California T is a big improvement on the old California. As a package it is much sharper to drive and looks nice too. The key element is the engine – the new twin-turbo 3.8-litre V8 which despite losing a few cubic centimeters in displacement delivers higher output which in turn encourages driving thrills. The engine’s exhaust note is among one of the highlights. The California T is a great introduction to the existing line-up.
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by the engine also increases, rising all the way up to 755 Nm in 7th gear. This has allowed Ferrari to adopt longer gear ratios in the higher gears helping to cut fuel consumption and emissions without affecting either driving pleasure. Thanks to Variable Boost Management, the California T delivers increasingly powerful pick-up, yet still optimises fuel consumption. Throttle response is razor sharp and the engine boasts an exceptionally broad power band that goes all the way up to 7,500 rpm.
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Brakes: Brembo carbon-ceramic braking system is used and it features new pad material that delivers a higher coefficient of friction which remains constant in all conditions of use. It is also less prone to wear so that both pad and disc will last more or less for the car’s entire life. APR 2015
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Bentley EXP 10 Speed 6 concept
Like many uber carmakers, Britain’s Bentley also has volume aspirations. Naturally, it expects new models like the EXP 10 Speed 6 concept help them in that direction Author: Chandan B Mallik
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rewe, UK-based Bentley Motor has officially announced plans to double their sales volume by 2020. It is a significant business decision considering brand’s original target of selling 15,000 units by 2018. For achieving such an ambitious milestone, it is now obvious that it will not only bank on the popularity of its existing line-up but also create some new models in unrepresented segments that will complement the existing lineup. At the recent Geneva Show, besides the regular fare of cars, the British luxury brand did have an unannounced surprise in the form of the EXP 10 Speed 6 Concept. According to Wolfgang Dürheimer, chairman and chief executive of Bentley Motors, the EXP 10 Speed 6 Concept represents the company’s vision for the future and –– it “could be a future model line, alongside the Continental GT”. This is indicative enough that it will not be the direct replacement of the current CGT family. However, from the design perspective, there are hints of what future Bentley cars could look like. The proportions and athletic stance of the EXP 10 Speed 6 Concept are defined by the short front overhang, long bonnet, low matrix grille and wide rear shape with a long C-pillar. The grille hides a subtle “6” that pops into view when looked at from 46
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certain angles and light conditions. The design language adopts muscular surfaces inspired by the aerodynamic shapes of aircraft fuselages and wings, and includes contemporary interpretations of Bentley styling cues. The headlamp designs are all
Indications are that the EXP 10 Speed 6 has been created to give Bentley a fifth model line. This means it [if produced] will join the Continental GT, Mulsanne, Flying Spur and upcoming Bentayga SUV new. The concept was painted in a deeper, richer metallic version of British Racing Green colour. Several components like the grille mesh which is no longer a flat plane of latticework but includes varying depth with a complex 3D geometry, exhausts, door handles and side vents
were manufactured with state-of-the-art 3D metal printing technology. The car’s cabin sports a familiar design layout with a modern twist – mostly detailing and technology led features. In fact, the inspiration for the interior comes from the continuous line that runs around the cabin, driving through the console and into two symmetrical wings before flowing into the door and looping back into the console armrest. Both front seats are quilted. The centre console is quite narrow and houses the angularly placed gear shifter and vertical 12” curved touch screen. The set-up neatly integrates digital information with tactile controls in an aluminium frame. Both digital and analogue instrumentation can be found. Interior designer have also been involved in creating new textures and details of such application include the classic Bentley knurled surface – a feature used throughout the controls of the car, which was created using steel and copper together to create a two-metal 3D texture. Continuing the fusion of traditional materials and contemporary design statements, the doors of the car feature 3D quilting, milled directly in to solid straight-grain cherry wood. Each resulting diamond is finished with a copper centre. The rear cabin space is divided into two
compartments designed to house a specifically designed four-piece luggage set. Like the rest of the interior, the rear has been trimmed by the master craftsmen at Bentley in the highest quality Poltrona Frau leather. Although presented as a concept study for a possible future model, Bentley till now hasn’t talked about the type of powertrain the EXP 10 Speed 6 could use. However, it seems that Crewe is looking beyond simply dropping its regular W12 or twin turbo V8 under the bonnet. Dürheimer dis say that the copper highlights of the exterior and interior hint at the “performance hybrid potential of the concept’s advanced new powertrain.” This is good enough reason to speculate now.
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2016 Hyundai Tucson
T Hyundai is in the midst of reorganizing its crossover SUV nomenclature and has confirmed that the incoming allnew Tuscon will be a common global model Author: Chandan B Mallik
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ill now, in most markets outside South Korea, Hyundai’s popular outgoing Elantra-based second generation C-segment crossover SUV, the Tucson [also known as the ‘Hyundai Tucson ix’ in Korea] was known as the Hyundai ix35. In a refreshing shift, Hyundai is reverting to proper names for its models rather than often confusing alphanumeric nomenclature. As a result of this direction, the incoming third generation SUV will use the Tucson name globally. The new Tucson as before will be slotted under the bigger Santa Fe and is built on a completely new platform which features generous interior dimensions. In fact, it continues with an evolution of the brand’s ‘Fluidic Sculpture’ design language and in the process seems to be heavily influenced with the bigger sibling in more than one way. Striking elements include a narrower, taller version of the brand’s mature hexagonal grille which now is closely set with the LED front lamps. Since a new platform is being used, designers used the opportunity to move the A-pillar back from its conventional location. So it becomes visually disconnected from the bonnet,
The incoming Tucson is a little longer, wider and lower than its predecessor. It also follows the industry’s trend towards shifting the proportions of crossovers towards cars rather than traditional SUVs accentuating a sleeker profile. The directional shape of the wheel arches also contribute to the appearance, while the ‘Z’ character-line above the rear wheel arches gives the car its sculptured side profile. The rear has a clean design with horizontal lines that flow from the rear wheel arches and accentuated by slim tail lights. Clever packaging ensures an excellent exterior-to-interior dimension ratio, optimising the space that is afforded to
passengers and luggage. The interior is more functional and is further removed from its larger sibling. The instrument panel is divided and it has also shifted away from using rather large amounts of silver plastic and LED blue lighting. Hyundai says that it has invested heavily in improving cabin materials and trims, especially touch points. New convenience features will include a smart powered tailgate and Smart Parking Assist System with parallel and bay parking function. The newgeneration navigation system which will come with the car is more than three times faster than the previous version and for Europe will come with a sevenyear free subscription to TomTom LIVE services. Cargo capacity with all the seats up is 513 litres. Depending on markets [in this case Europe], the Tucson will be available with two petrol engines: 135PS 1.6-litre normally-aspirated with direct injection or 176PS 1.6-litre turbo charged with direct injection plus three diesel options. The turbocharged petrol engine can be paired with either a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT) or a sixspeed manual. APR 2015
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Infiniti QX30 Concept
Infiniti first signaled its intentions to enter the premium compact segment when it revealed the Q30 Concept in Frankfurt in 2013. The introduction of the QX30 Concept is another effort in Infiniti’s aggressive strategy to grow in key global markets Author: Chandan B Mallik
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The production version of the QX30 will be launched next year, according to Infiniti and it will be the one of the company’s first cars built in Europe.
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or Nissan’s luxury standalone brand Infiniti, time is ticking fast as it tries to get its line-up up to speed and also consider new territory. The Hong Kong headquartered brand began releasing teasers of its QX30 Concept SUV, weeks before the Swiss show. The carmaker says that its design vision is clear as to how it will inspire a new premium compact crossover that it plans to promote to the growing crowd of younger affluent customers who are being pampered with a slew of new first time models like the Range Rover Evoque, Mercedes-Benz GLA or recently introduced Lexus NX and Porsche Macan among others. The company also plans to maximize its leverage with technical partner Daimler with the new car. In profile, the QX30 Concept combines sleek lines of a coupe with the commanding sitting position of all-wheel drive of a crossover. This arrangement will gel well with drivers looking to navigating high street as well as while exploring weekend getaways. Infiniti thinks that idea of a premium car has less to do with size or power but more to do with distinctive design and outstanding execution for the Gen X or Y type of buyer. 52
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As a result, Infiniti designers and engineers have drawn on its heritage of creating successful high-performance crossovers namely the QX50 and QX70 to help conceive the QX30 Concept. However, both the Q30 and QX30
Infiniti has drawn on its heritage of creating successful high-performance crossovers namely the QX50 and QX70 to craft the QX30 Concept. concepts will remain closely connected with remarkably similar features, packaging, design and engineering. According to observers, when both cars go on sale next year, they’ll share a common platform, body shell, and engines. This aspect need not be interpreted as the QX30 being little more than a Q30 hatchback with a lift. Several design cues
are offered to differentiate between the two siblings. For instance, the front bumper, specifically, ditches the Q30’s individual intakes for a large full-width opening stuffed with satin chrome effect instead. The QX30 also gets influenced by sloping coupe-inspired lines which have been beefed up with robust facets to give the four-door a youthful feel. Dimensionally, it will standing at 4,430mm in length, 1,815mm in width and 1,520mm height. To complement the higher stance of the Infiniti QX30 Concept, Infiniti designers have added visual cues which instantly identify the concept as a crossover. The sense of stylish fortification is reinforced by the hardy kick plates under the doors and the toughlooking but sculpted skid plate in the rear. Although the QX30 is within inches of the donor Mercedes, its body looks wider and thanks to use of large tyres on 21in rims and increased blackout around the wheel opening. The unique wheel design mixes three-dimensional milled aluminium and matt finished rubber material for an unconventional juxtaposition. Even the roof racks have gone beyond their functional use. Extending toward the centre line, they artistically “obstruct” the rear passenger’s view through the glass roof, resulting in an inimitable perspective
of the outside. Inside, the bold and dark environment harmonises with the outdoors appeal of the exterior. All four seats have been streamlined for a suspended look and the U-shaped seat frame of the show car was wrapped in Connolly saddle leather offset by blue stitching. The contrast between the exposed and covered parts of the frame lends a three-dimensional quality to the interior. The concept’s dashboard is centered around one LCD screen. Meanwhile, the high ground clearance at 192mm should be good enough for the driver to enjoy an elevated command position. Interestingly, the Q30 and QX30 are among the first fruits of the RenaultNissan [Infiniti’s parent company] Daimler tech-sharing partnership,. This means both cars will be built on the same compact, front-drive architecture that forms the basis for the Mercedes A-class, CLA-class sedan, and GLA-class crossover. Similar to the Lexus new compact crossover, the NX, the four-seater Infiniti crossover will get a choice of petrol and diesel four-cylinder powertrains. Infiniti thinks that 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive versions will be among the most popular versions. APR 2015
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Koenigsegg Regera
Swedish boutique maker Koenigsegg has built its first performance hybridized uber luxury super car – the Regera Author: Chandan B Mallik
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wedish entrepreneuer Christian Von Koenigsegg is dreamer. After seeing a Norwegian animated film Flåklypa Grand Prix at age five he dreamt of building a perfect super sports car one day. Enterprising and dedicated, Koenigsegg did achieve his supercar building goal in 1994 when he started his pet project which has since produced creations like the CC8S, CCR followed by newer models like the Agera R and One:1. Although considered as a boutique car maker, in motoring circles Koenigsegg is incredibly respected and much admired for ingenuity and 54
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innovation. And that trend continues unabated. After teasing the media prior to the Geneva Auto Salon, Koenigsegg promised to showcase two cars –the Agera S and the Regera. It is the details of latter car that we present in this feature. It is the first hybrid super car from the brand and the application of technology is what has impressed us. In design the car boasts of elements that look at the 1960s. Modern features include aerodynamic humps behind each seat, while the windshield curves dramatically around the passenger compartment. There’s also a foldable top mounted rear wing, active aero flaps underneath the car - both left and right - that you can be control individually like the One:1, and most of all the hallmark ‘soft-close’ doors. The front tyres are also wider than the rears, to compensate for the weight distribution of that battery pack. Modcons and luxury features include leather seats and Apple CarPlay-compatible 9.1in infotainment system. The Regera is built on a modified version of the Agera chassis. Modifications were necessitated to help accommodate the 9kW battery pack, which is located in
With whopping combined 1,500hp from its V8 engine and three electric motors, the Koenigsegg Regera, by far, is the most powerful plug-in hybrid production car ever produced by this Swedish boutique car maker the centre of the 4,560mm long car on a 1,662mm wheelbase. To keep the weight down, extensive use of carbon fibre and Kevlar has been used in fabricating the body. Aluminium has been used in the suspension hardware. As it is a hybrid, there’s a bi-turbo 5.0-litre V8 engine which is tuned to produce 1,100hp at 7,800rpm and 1,280 Nm worth of torque at 4,100rpm. Three
Regera is a Swedish verb, meaning “to reign.” Only 80 units of the Regera will be built and each will cost approximately US$1.9mn
strategically placed electric motors, one on the driveshaft and one at each rear wheel all combine to produce around 1,500hp. The unique engineering feat is how all this massive power is transferred to the wheels. Interestingly, the Regera doesn’t use a conventional set-up. To start the vehicle from standstill it utilizes the direct drive power from the electric motors. One electric motor [215bhp] on the crankshaft supplies torque fill and also acts as both a generator and a starter motor, whereas the other two [241bhp each and combined 900Nm of torque] driveshaft mounted electric motors drive the rear wheels and also provide torque vectoring for better handling. At speeds below 48km/h, only the electric motors propel the car through the use of a hydraulic coupling which disconnects the internal combustion engine. The absence of a gearbox and addition of electric motors and battery only added 88kg to the car’s 1,638kg weight. The 600v plus energy for the motors come from a lithium-ion battery pack and the Regera has a 35km electric only driving range. In terms of performance, the car is capable of doing 0-100km/h in 2.8sec and top speed of 410km/h. APR 2015
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Nissan Sway Concept
A new design direction and innovative product planning gave birth to models like the Qashqai and Juke lifestyle crossovers. Nissan now applies the same thinking and logic to its compact Euro-centric hatchback, shown at Geneva last month as the Sway Concept Author: Chandan B Mallik
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issan has experimented quite a lot with design over the past decade and it seems that the fruits of the evolutionary approach showcased in recent concept cars will eventually touch all levels of the brand’s cars, including the compact segment which will include hatchbacks, sedans and crossovers. Till now, the Micra hatchback has been the compact representative from Nissan in several markets including Europe, Asia and Middle East. The Sway is a glimpse at how a future generation of compact Nissan model like the Micra hatchback replacement could look like if the company went forward with the concept’s striking new design language. With dimensions of 4,010/1,780/2,570mm [length/width/wheelbase], the Sway is longer and wider than the current Micra and also suggests a different platform could be used if greenlighted for production. From the design standpoint, several cues are familiar. As this concept car has been designed especially to appeal to European tastes and hence it wants to be seen as emotional, edgy and exciting like the Juke crossover SUV for instance. Secondly, in Europe, the compact hatchback segment has traditionally been seen as being conservative when it comes to design, features and overall packaging. 58
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From organic and rounded surfaces in the current Micra, there’s a shift in design philosophy which now looks at sharp angles, bolder creases and swoopy lines. All this packaged neatly in the recognizable corporate nose. The car
The Nissan Sway concept is meant to preview the brand’s plans for the compact hatchback segment, and the concept car itself is a representation of a new design language for the company seems to move upmarket with exterior features elements such as a floating roof, a signature kicked-up C-pillar line [a new design signature that has already been seen on the Nissan Lannia Concept that was presented last year in Beijing at Auto China 2014, as well as the new Murano
recently launched in the US] that extends from the rear doors, and well-placed boomerang tail lamps. The monotony of the car’s waistline is broken by the rising indented triangular sill feature. The interior also gets a generous makeover in terms of design and upgrades materials. Inspiration comes from application of technologies usually seen in industrial architecture such as structural aluminium elements to signify both simplicity and strength, but also the attention to detail and use of colour and materials associated with premium consumer goods. The car’s dashboard is clearly inspired by the IDx show car [first revealed at the 2013 Tokyo motor show]. In the Sway it has been adopted and developed further as design concept of a gliding wing shaped dashboard. This concept car had no central B-pillar and hence the rear-hinged rear doors not only appear extended over the sill, but also complement the flared mudguards that cover the rear wheels. An upward flick towards the rear of the glass-line reduces the C-pillar between the door and the floating roof to a minimum. All these ease ingress and egress for rear seat occupants. Just two basic instruments face the driver, with all other functions captured on a large trapezoidal tablet in the centre of
the dashboard visible – and usable – by both driver and front seat passenger. The seats are made of lightweight exposed aluminium and are covered in a rich suedelike fabric featuring stitching techniques more usually found on luxury handbags. The lightweight seats have an aluminum structure - once again exposed - and are covered in a premium suede-like fabric partially accentuated with pearl-effect material, featuring stitching techniques more usually found on luxury handbags. Colour co-ordination sees the use of strong blue and orange themes inside, complementing the exterior perfectly. Since the Sway is more of a design preview, no mechanical details of the car was released. It is expected to be built as a front wheel drive car with a variety of petrol/diesel engines ranging from 1.0-litre to 1.4-litre with choice of manual or CVT transmissions.
Automan’s take
Nissan is on the move. The brand stands for bold, innovative thinking in the European automotive market and future growth in Europe will be led by new products, which are to be defined by outstanding design. The Sway underlines how important design is for Nissan in building our brand and driving growth. APR 2015
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2016 Honda Pilot
Reengineered and redesigned in America, the 2016 Honda Pilot is now programmed to deliver its poise as a more familyfriendly utility with unprecedented advanced technologies and more premium features Author: Chandan B Mallik 60
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t was at the 2015 Chicago Auto Show where the all-new thirdgeneration 2016 Honda Pilot SUV had its global premiere. The incoming model’s exterior appears more sleek and modern in compared to its boxier predecessor and its overall dimensions are larger than the outgoing edition. Honda says that this three-row midsize SUV has been designed, developed and manufactured in North America. With this edition, Honda has consciously tried to move the model in to the premium segment by paying attention to the car’s detailing and feature content. As a result, there are new design elements like optional brighter and more efficient LED projector headlamps with auto high beam technology, signature LED daytime running lamps and taillamps, plus 20in wheels. For the first time the Pilot will be offered with panoramic roof option. The new Pilot incorporates Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure and
is about 136kg lighter. Special attention has been made in the NVH departments. The premium quality feel of the new Pilot, according to Honda is also carried over to the interior, where designers have applied high-quality, soft- touch materials throughout the cabin and added thoughtful details such as LED map lighting. For the first time, uppertrim Pilot models will offer two secondrow captain’s chairs, providing for easy walk through between the second and third rows, in addition to the standard second-row three-person 60:40 split seat for 8-passenger seating capacity. The new Pilot will also incorporate Honda’s latest upsized 8in capacitive touchscreen display audio telematics interface powered by a new/upgraded Android-based operating system. Besides a more powerful processor, it will also host a new Sat Nav system. The 2016 Pilot will come with a more refined, powerful and fuel-efficient new 3.5-litre, direct-injected i-VTEC®
V6 engine with variable cylinder management [cylinder deactivation technology]. For improved fuel efficiency, the Pilot will include available Idle Stop feature. The new V6 engine is mated to one of two advanced new transmissions - a Pilot-first 6-speed automatic transmission, or on upper trims, a Honda-first 9-speed automatic transmission. The new Pilot will be available in front-wheel and all-wheeldrive configurations and will feature a completely new Honda all-wheeldrive system which comprises three individual systems working together. These include the Variable Torque Management all-wheel drive system with locking differential, Hill Start Assist Control system and Grade Logic Control system. The 4WD utilizes variable torque management to automatically engage when the system senses loss of traction. It will also allow the driver to override the system by a manually locking rear differential when the SUV is in first,
The new V6 engine is mated to one of two advanced new transmissions - a Pilot-first 6-speed automatic transmission, or on upper trims, a ZF-sourced 9-speed automatic transmission second, or reverse gears and will stay engaged up to 30km/h, or is shifted from aforementioned gears, then unlocks and reverts to the automatic engaging. The Pilot also has a Hill Start Assist system
which maintains brake pressure when the brake pedal is released, giving the driver time to engage the accelerator. The Pilot also uses a grade logic system which holds the engine in a lower gear when on steep inclines for better hillclimbing torque and increased engine braking when going down steep inclines. The new Pilot will come with a host advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies. The package will includes Honda’s popular lane watch display, blind spot indicators, a standard multiangle rear view camera, and collision mitigation braking system, lane departure warning, forward collision warning, lane keeping assist system, rear cross traffic monitor, adaptive cruise control and a Honda-first lane departure mitigation system. The model shown at Chicago was an engineering prototype and Honda is said to be finalizing the kit among other things prior to its launch sometime in the third quarter of this year. APR 2015
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More and more carmakers are looking at exclusively prepared track focused cars for elite clientele. For some manufacturers, it’s a great marketing tool too. Automan takes a look at some of the new entries that were presented at recently concluded global motor shows Author: Chandan B Mallik
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1 Aston Martin Vulcan
ston Martin plans to capitalize its vast motorsport experience in creating limited production track day super cars like the recently showcased Vulcan at Geneva Styled entirely in-house by the Aston Martin design team led by chief creative officer Marek Reichman, and with a design language hinting at the next generation of Aston Martin sports cars, the Vulcan is mechanically based on the One 77 supercar and hence it is 64
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powered by the most potent iteration of the carmaker’s naturally-aspirated 7.0-litre V12 petrol engine which delivers 800hp for this front mid-engined rearwheel drive car. Power is channeled to the 345/30 x19 rear wheels and Michelin race specification tyres through a racebred rear mid-mounted Xtrac six-speed sequential shift gearbox. In its construction, the car gets a carbon fibre monocoque and body constructed by Aston Martin’s specialist body
engineering and manufacturing partner Multimatic. The Vulcan also gets as part of its engineering package integral limited-slip differential, magnesium torque tube with carbon fibre propeller shaft and Brembo racing calipers acting on carbon ceramic racing disc brakes which measure 380mm in diameter at the front and 360mm at the rear. The suspension set-up uses rackderived pushrod suspension with anti-dive geometry. The set-up is also
Aston Martin has offered a glimpse of its future design direction with its new Vulcan track-only supercar
luxury customer service that is now a hallmark of the brand’s ‘Q by Aston Martin’ bespoke personalisation service. The new track car will comply with all relevant FIA race safety requirements and prior to taking delivery of their cars, owners will be offered the opportunity to take part in an extensive and detailed programme of intensive track driver training including F1-styled simulators.
Aston’s unique ownership programme that sits behind sets a whole new standard in the ultra-high luxury supercar class and by including a number of high performance models including the V12 Vantage S and One-77 road cars and the Vantage GT4 race car, Aston’s customers will gradually build experience and develop their track technique, before beginning their personal journeys into the immense performance potential of their toys like the Vulcan.
Automan’s take
complemented by Multimatic’s Dynamic Suspension Spool Valve (DSSV) adjustable dampers and anti-roll bars front and rear, driveradjustable anti-lock braking, and variable traction control. That’s not all. Almost infinitely flexible in terms of colour and trim options, the exclusive new sports car will be offered to buyers through Aston Martin’s VIP sales programme, using the expertise and
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2 Nissan GT-R LM Nismo Racecar
Automan’s take
The GT-R LM NISMO is Nissan’s first toplevel endurance racer since the R391 of late 90s. It will be competing this year in the WEC’s premier LMP1 category for hybrids -- Audi, Porsche and Toyota are key competitors. 66
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issan’s new LMP1 hybrid race car set for the 2015 World Endurance Championship including 24 Hours of Le Mans During the commercial break for Super Bowl XLIX, Nissan declared its intentions to take on the world’s top sports car manufacturers after posting a glimpse of its Le Mans challenger, the Nissan GT-R LM Nismo racer. The Japanese brand’s challenger will feature a hybridized powertrain like the other top players like Audi and Toyota, but the similarity ends there when it comes to the rest of the package. Considering the intense rivalry and secrecy maintained between manufacturers, intricate engineering details are scarce as expected. However, we do have some interesting details about the 182.9in long, 74.8in wide and 40.6in tall Nissan GT-R LM Nismo racer. As expected, optimization in design, construction, aerodynamics and powertrain are key to the car’s overall packaging. As a result, the body is made out of carbon composites, the windshield fabricated from polycarbonate with specialised chip resistant protection. Together with its technological partners like Nismo engineers and Cosworth and specialized suppliers, unlike the competition which has chosen to use a rear-wheel drive layout, Nissan’s racer is essentially a front-engined and frontwheel-drive machine. The second big difference under the resin composite skin is that Nissan is using a petrol engine instead of diesel. A twin-turbo 3.0-litre V6 [not the GT-Rs 3.8-litre V6] is designed to work in conjunction with an electric drive system to develop more than estimated 1,250hp. And to ensure it gets the power down most efficiently, the car features asymmetric tyre/wheel set-up with bigger tyres up front [14in wide front versus 9in rear]. And with the engine up front, it means the cabin sits further back compared to the other LMP1s. Nissan’s engineers explained the rationale behind the unusual architecture and layout of the front-midengine design. The say it was conceived to support the front-wheel-drive concept from the onset, giving the car a forward weight bias. This aspect is claimed as being necessary to help the heavier front wheels to deliver optimum grip, especially when the hybrid set-up chips in power. And the same consideration is also said to have affected the aerodynamic development.
Aside from an adjustable rear wing, no other aero specifics data like coefficient of drag, frontal area, downforce or lift have been revealed. And very much in line with the regulations, Nissan was able to utilize virtually any engine in its new LMP1 but had to ensure it met fuel flow limits. Teams are limited by how many grams of fuel per second can be burned, so the more efficient they make the engine, the more power they have because they’re all burning the same amount of fuel. The suspension is composed of Penske dampers with four-way adjustability and also features a hydraulic rear anti-roll bar. Six-piston calipers squeeze the front brakes, with four-piston calipers at the
The 2015 World Endurance Championship including 24 Hours of Le Mans has serious players like Porsche, Audi and Toyota besides others. This year another name joins the list and it’s from Nissan. rear. The brake-by-wire NISMO system is integrated with the KERS function and includes driver-adjustable front-rear bias. Under braking, kinetic energy is converted to electricity via an energy recovery system and stored, either in a battery or capacitor, whereby it can be used later, such as when exiting a corner. The key is to store the energy and then release it very quickly. Cosworth supplies the ECU and the controller for the five-speed sequential gearbox, which feeds power to the wheels via a hydraulic limited-slip diff. Tilton supplies the four-plate carbon clutch. Like the brakes, the throttle is drive-by-wire, and the drivetrain includes driver-adjustable traction control. The steering wheel is by NISMO, and the LCD info graphics come from Cosworth. The new car will contest the LM P1 class of the FIA World Endurance Championship, the highest category in world sports car racing. Starting at Silverstone, UK on April 12, 2015, the series travels around the world to Spa in Belgium, onto the Le Mans 24 Hours and Germany’s Nürburgring, before going global with races in the U.S., Japan, China and the Middle East.
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3 Lamborghini LP 750-4 Aventador Super Veloce
he pitch is clear out here: this has to be the purest essence of a Lamborghini super sports car. The mantra is also simple and doable. Increase power, lose weight, improve aerodynamics and introduce innovative technologies. This is what has exactly been done in the Lamborghini LP 750-4 Superveloce by the engineering team at Automobili Lamborghini. “The new Aventador Superveloce continues the Lamborghini tradition of SV models, pushing the boundaries in terms of performance and pure driving emotion,” said Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili during its 68
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unveil at Geneva. The stock car used for the exercise is the Aventador, which was introduced in 2011. The first job was to reduce as much weight possible without compromising on intended performance and job description. The Aventador’s carbon fiber monocoque with lightweight aluminium frames is being serially produced for the Superveloce. Together with other carbon fibre components such as new door panels and new rockers and mudguards, it offers low weight with maximum torsional rigidity. The new rear wing and the fixed air intakes are now made of carbon fibre composites.
The interior has also been completely revised with a clear focus on weight reduction. The new sports bucket seats and the door panels are made of carbon and the interior’s lightweight design excludes an infotainment system (available as no cost option), carpets and certain noise insulation parts. As a result of this inside/outside application, the car loses 50kg. The second job was to improve performance and driving dynamics. This aspect as most of us know involves powertrain and chassis related technologies. The naturally aspirated V12 engine’s power has been bumped to 750hp which
comes at 8,400rpm along with maximum torque of 690Nm at 5,500rpm and this has impacted the power-to-weight-ratio which now stands at 2.03kg/hp. The high revving Superveloce is now capable of accelerating from 0 to 100km/h in 2.8secs and powers on to reach a top speed of more than 350km/h. Key to the car’s blistering performance and handling is its suspension and steering set-up. Perfect control is achieved through pushrod suspension with magnetorheological shock absorbers and the new electromechanical Lamborghini Dynamic Steering (LDS) which variably adapts the steering ratio to road speed and to
the dynamic mode selected. Specially tuned for the Superveloce, it ensures even greater stability at high speed, while making it significantly easier to maneuver at low speed. Meanwhile, wheel damping is adjusted individually during cornering, largely suppressing body roll and making the steering and handling even more responsive. The adaptive damping also counteracts brake diving. The Superveloce’s is equipped with lightweight asymmetric rims. The standard-fit Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tyres are fitted to 20in alloys up front and 21in at the rear. Carbon Ceramic Brakes come as standard.
The highly innovative Lamborghini ISR transmission is claimed to be the fastest automated manual gearbox in the world and the permanent all-wheel drive of the car uses a Haldex Generation IV electronically controlled coupling system to distribute torque between front and rear. A self-locking differential at the rear axle and an electronic differential lock at the front is controlled by the ESP. Vehicle characteristics (engine, transmission, differential, dampers, steering) can all be adapted to individual driver preferences using the three settings of the Drive Select system – Strada (road), Sport and Corsa (race track). APR 2015
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4 Mclaren 675LT
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irst shown at Geneva, a few weeks ago, the lightest, most powerful and fastest model in the McLaren Super Series, the 675LT has been confirmed for limited to 500 unit production The track focused Mclaren 675LT shown to public for the first time last month in Geneva represents the latest in what the brand calls Super Series. Cleared forlimited production, it has a clear build and performance focus. As expected it will benefit from light weight construction, optimised aerodynamics, increased power and will be endowed with track-focused dynamics and most of all driver engagement. The car featutes a more aggressive look for the McLaren brand than has been seen before and styling cues run from the extended carbon fibre front splitter, through an extended door blade and additional cooling intake, to the circular twin titanium exhaust pipes, Mclaren’s experience and expertise with carbon and its composites span over three decades and is well documented. Mclaren introduced a carbon chassis into racing and road cars with the 1981 McLaren MP4/1 and 1993 McLaren F1 respectively and McLaren has not built a car without a carbon fibre chassis. That tradition continues and at the core of the 675LT is the lightweight carbon fibre MonoCell chassis [also shared with each model in the Super Series]. What ensures the difference between the three models in the Super Series [675LT, 650S and Asia-only 625C] is the bespoke chassis and powertrain set up. As a result, the weight saving efforts sees the 675LT tip the scales at just 1,230kg (dry weight), making it the lightest model in the already lightweight Super Series. Every measure has been addressed when it comes to reducing weight from different components. For example, the changes to the car’s glazing alone save 4.5kg with a thinner windscreen and rear bulkhead glass, and replacing the engine cover with motorsport-style polycarbonate
composite. The 675LT uses the familiar sevenspeed SSG transmission found in the other Super Series models, retaining the Normal, Sport or Track modes. These settings have been recalibrated to produce more eager performance, with optimised throttle response and gearshifts up to twice as fast as previously offered. The newly developed ‘Ignition Cut’ technology is a technique adopted from Formula 1™ which sees a momentary cut of the fuel spark on gearshift. This delivers the fastest change possible, and is accompanied by a dramatic aural ‘crack’ on both upshift and downshift. Also debuting on the 675LT is an all-new Electronic Stability Control (ESC) calibration, giving the driver an even greater level of control over the throttle and brake inputs. On the performance level, the sprint from 0-100 km/h will take just 2.9secs, with controlled torque delivery ensuring optimised traction off the line. Acceleration continues with the 200 km/h barrier broken in 7.9secs on to a top speed of 330km/h. A more aggressive set up gives the 675LT a unique track-focused feel, while still retaining the adjustable ProActive Chassis Control to ensure drivability and comfort levels are maintained. One of the many updates featured on the 1997 McLaren F1 GTR ‘Longtail’ was a wider track, front and rear. This approach is echoed in the 675LT, with the front and rear track widened by 20mm, ensuring optimised stability and handling performance. Lightweight springs front and rear have been stiffened – 27 per cent at the front and 63 per cent at the rear – to improve body control and allow for the 40 per cent increase in downforce generated by the revised bodywork and active aerodynamics. Newly-developed suspension geometry includes lightweight uprights and wishbones based on the learnings from the McLaren P1™. This is coupled with a faster steering rack to give a more extreme driver-focused experience.
Automan’s take
The business model adopted by McLaren is quite unique as it engages a three tier model strategy for the brand. The Sports Series will complete the range of groundbreaking models when it is launched in April, and will introduce the unique McLaren DNA to the sports car market for the first time with a carbon fibre chassis and a mid-mounted V8 engine. The Sports Series joins the Super Series, formed of the 675LT, 650S and Asia-only 625C, and the Ultimate Series, with the McLaren P1™ and McLaren P1™ GTR. APR 2015
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5 Mercedes-AMG will ring in the 2015 motorsport season with the new GT3
fter making its debut appearance at the Geneva Motor Show, Mercedes-Benz has clearly communicated that its high-performance sub brand AMG is systematically expanding its motorsports presence with track compliant machines. The new GT3 is based on the Mercedes-AMG GT and has been specifically developed to comply with the FIA’s GT3 race rules. According to Tobias Moers, chairman of the Board of Management of MercedesAMG GmbH, the stock Mercedes-AMG GT provided the ideal platform for the GT3 racing model build. What was required from the GT platform was low centre of gravity, perfect distribution of weight and wide track width. With this existing layout Mercedes-AMG GT has been able to guarantee precise cornering properties, high lateral acceleration, first-class agility, a high level of traction and low inertia when 72
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having to change direction fast. As a result, the GT3 establishes itself with very strong credentials and basic job was to fine tune the detailing to meet job description. To give the GT3 its distinctive identity, it gets matt paintwork in designo selenite grey magno. The body has been widened to help accommodate the large air intakes. The diffuser and the huge rear aerofoil are designed to optimize downforce. Every modification to the bodywork has been made for the purpose of maximising power output and aerodynamic performance. As in the roadgoing version, the GT3 uses a very lightweight yet extremely rigid aluminium spaceframe. Driver gets carbon-fibre seat pan and an integral roll-over cage made from high-tensile steel. In order to reduce the vehicle weight further still, the engine cover, doors, front wing, front and rear aprons,
sidewalls, side skirts, diffuser, boot lid and rear aerofoil are all made from particularly lightweight yet high-strength carbon-fibre. More than torque, extra displacement and horsepower are major considerations out here. So the twinturbo 503bhp 4.0-litre V8 of the GT is not used and power is supplied by an enhanced version of the normallyaspirated AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine, which comes out from the SLS AMG GT3 where it produces 600bhp. The 7-speed transmission is dropped in favour of sixspeed sequential racing gearbox which similar to the standard GT is mounted in a transaxle configuration on the rear axle. The car’s double-wishbone suspension is made almost entirely from aluminium and is same as in the stock car. Customer deliveries will take place at the end of this yea
Automan’s take
These solutions once again demonstrate how closely linked regular production technology and racing technology are at AMG. On one hand, the GT3 will compete as part of the FIA GT3 championship from 2016, on the other hand, its success will also inspire AMG to produce an even more hardcore version of the GT road car. APR 2015
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6 Audi R8 LMS
ith the new Audi R8, Audi engineers are bringing accumulated racing expertise from the race track onto the road. Alongside the new R8 series-production model, the second-generation R8 LMS race car has also made its debut. Both the series-production model of the R8 and the R8 LMS have seen clear increases in power and performance compared with the predecessor. Audi claims that the new R8 V10 plus is the most powerful and fastest series-production Audi of all time as a result of the close cooperation between racing engineers, racing drivers and developers. This quantitative and qualitative achievement benefits both the series production car and the R8 LMS developed on the basis of this. The body shell of the rear-wheel-drive GT3 sports car is based on a selectively reinforced multimaterial ASF. Engineers have supplemented this feature with a safety cage. Its outer shell consists mainly of carbon fiber reinforced plastics. The
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base weight of the second generation race car which uses material mix of aluminum in the Audi Space Frame (ASF), a structural CFRP component and the steel roll cage has been reduced from 1,250 to 1,225kg. The chassis at 252kg is about 30kg lighter. At the same time, the torsional stiffness of the stressed frame has increased by 39 per cent. The car is powered by 585hp 5.2-litre V10 engine and remains nearly unchanged. The suspensions now use wishbones strictly designed for racing for the first time and the six-speed transmission with paddle shifters is a completely new development as well. It is significantly lighter than its predecessor while its efficiency has increased because the previous drop gear system has been eliminated. The new MS 6.4 electronics include engine electronics, traction control and software for the electro-hydraulic gearshift. The powerful processor enables higher processing speeds that result in faster responses. A power box is another new feature.
It replaces the traditional fuse box and makes it possible to define individual loads and scenarios. The new aerodynamic concept of the Audi R8 LMS for the first time includes a fully lined underfloor and a conceptually integrated rear diffusor. As a result, the dimensions of the rear wing can be reduced without a corresponding increase of aerodynamic drag. The wheel wells, which are open rearwards via a larger cross-section, contribute to improved airflow. The airflow rate and cooling area of the radiator at the front have increased by ten percent to handle maximum outside air temperatures. In order to improve the race drivers’ ability to concentrate on their tasks, fresh air circulation in the cockpit has been improved. At a speed of 200 km/h, the airflow rate is 250 liters per second. Audi has achieved these improvements despite the significantly higher constraints imposed on aerodynamics design by the 2016 regulations.
Motorsports F1
2015 Australian Grand Prix As Lewis Hamilton’s Mercedes-AMG took the checkered flag at Formula One’s season-opening Australian Grand Prix, it marked the end of an eventful and shambolic weekend of racing
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en teams and 20 drivers are set to compete in the 2015 F1 season, but like the opening night of a Hollywood production in dire need of more rehearsal time, few teams seemed truly ready to race. First there were the perennial backmarkers now known as Manor Marussia. The team, which had just narrowly escaped bankruptcy over the winter, showed up to Melbourne with a full complement of cars, drivers, and equipment. But the Dinnington, Englandbased outfit chose not to turn a wheel in anger over the weekend, citing problems with its cars related to computer software. McLaren Honda is the titan of the sport, and yet it could not even get both of its cars to the starting line. Kevin Magnussen’s engine blew up while Magnussen was on his way to line up for the green flag. The team’s other car, driven by Jenson Button, did complete the race. In last place. Although Ferrari’s new driver — fourtime champ Sebastian Vettel — had a great race with a solid third-place result, 76
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the team left Melbourne embarrassed. Ferrari’s 2007 world champ, Kimi Raikkonen, had to retire from the race because the pit crew sent the Fin back into the race before it could screw on his left rear tire. Williams F1’s lead driver, Felipe Massa, also had a great race, finishing in fourth place, but Williams’ second car did not make the race after driver Valtteri Bottas injured his back Saturday and could not get clearance from F1 doctors to drive. As bad as Manor’s money problems may have been, Sauber’s legal troubles may have been worse. The Swiss team began the weekend with the Australian courts threatening to seize all of Sauber’s assets in the country. Why? Apparently, the team promised its two race seats to three drivers, which led driver Giedo van der Garde — the odd man out — to sue Sauber for breach of contract. Only after a last-minute handshake deal with van der Garde’s lawyers was Sauber allowed to continue with its planned driver lineup of Marcus Ericsson and Felipe Nasr.
Fortunately for Sauber, its weekend got better. Entering the season, critics were somewhat skeptical about the class of incoming rookies, believing they were way too young and way too inexperienced to compete. Boy, were they wrong! Sauber’s 22-year-old rookie, Nasr, capped off a great weekend with a spectacular and somewhat unexpected fifth-place finish. Both of Scuderia Toro Rosso’s young guns — Max Verstappen, 17, and Carlos Sainz Jr., 20 — proved their mettle with poise and speed beyond their years. But the team and the car prevented the young duo from achieving race results to match its performance. Verstappen’s engine conked out while the high-schooler fought for a top-five finish. Sainz lost half a minute during a pit stop after his crew could not attach the car’s left rear wheel. When it came time to interview the drivers on the podium, race organizers sent out the former Governator himself to do the dirty work. The result was both awkward and spectacular. As soon as the
Is Hamilton heading for red team? Hamilton has just bought a LaFerrari and if rumours are to be believed, the Briton is said to be cozying up to the Italians. That Hamilton has had contact with Ferrari has also been confirmed by Mercedes team boss Toto Wolff. Paddock rumours in Australia suggested that as Mercedes conducts their own negotiations for a new contract beyond 2015, the British driver had been in touch with Ferrari. LaFerrari is an ultra-rare Ferrari supercar, so it is interesting that Hamilton - the reigning world champion for Mercedes - has so openly bought one. Interestingly, long before Sebastian Vettel’s move from Red Bull, the German bought a Ferrari road car but had to keep it a secret. Despite what’s going on, both sides say they are now close to agreeing terms for a new Mercedes contract for 2016 and beyond. But if Hamilton were to leave Mercedes, the most coveted cockpit in F1 would open up and Wolff has already said Fernando Alonso is in pole position to take up the job. Terminator stepped onto the podium, the three millionaire pro athletes were immediately reduced to 12year old movie fans. Lewis Hamilton
seemed more ecstatic about shaking Schwarzenegger’s hand than about the dominant race victory he had just delivered.
Renault and Red Bull heading for divorce The split between Red Bull and Renault seems ever closer. Spanish media claims that amid reports the French engine supplier is looking to buy Toro Rosso, Renault has signed up former Mercedes chief Bob Bell.Bell, who was technical director at Renault’s works team in its title-winning era ten years ago, is not an engine specialist, intensifying speculation the marque intends to once again go
it alone in Formula One. Renault representatives recently visited the Toro Rosso factory at Faenza, including Cyril Abiteboul as well as Bell, the 56-year-old Ulsterman. Britain’s media claims Red Bull has made approaches to Volkswagen-owned Audi, which would tie in with the post-Melbourne quit threats. The developments follow current works partner Red Bull Racing’s intense criticism of Renault’s 2015 project. Boss Christian Horner not only claims the power unit is 100hp down on Mercedes, but it is also damaging the car designed at Milton-Keynes. International media report that Red Bull and Renault figures headed straight to ‘crisis meetings’ after the calamity of the Australian grand prix. Renault’s F1 chief Cyril Abiteboul has admitted the problems, but he also indicated the relationship with Red Bull is now deteriorating.
New tyres post faster lap times Analysis of the data from the Australian Grand Prix has shown that the cars were around two seconds quicker per lap during every session compared to 2014, a trend set to continue throughout the rest of this season. During last year’s Australian Grand Prix, which was held in similar race conditions, the best time of the weekend was 1:29.375s (in FP3, soft tyre): a benchmark that already came close to being broken in FP1 this year, with the cars straight out of the box. The quickest time of the weekend this year was 1:26.327s (in qualifying, soft tyre): a full three seconds faster than 2014 when the fastest time of the weekend was in FP3, due to a wet qualifying. This year’s fastest race lap was 1:30.945s, set by Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton. This was 1.5 seconds faster than the fastest race lap last year (1:32.478s) set by Nico Rosberg on the soft tyre. With the gap between the soft and medium compounds in Australia this year reckoned to be around 1.4 seconds, it is easy to see the performance leap that has been made thanks to the latest engine evolutions and improved tyres. “These figures underline what we expected to see following pre-season testing,” said Paul Hembery, “a significant reduction in lap times, with cars that will only get faster as the year goes on. We could even see some new lap records on certain circuits. We have introduced evolutions to the rear structure of all our 2015 tyres this year, in order to give them greater capability in handling the extreme situations.” 78
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Alonso fit to race Fernando Alonso has been declared fit to return to the cockpit of his McLarenHonda. The Spaniard had already been given the green light prior to travelling to Malaysia this week by a panel of FIA-nominated doctors at Cambridge University. The FIA announced that Alonso duly passed all the “mandatory fitness tests” last month.
Crash mystery deepens Fernando Alonso said he crashed in Barcelona because his steering “locked”. This information comes at a time after weeks of rumours, speculation and contradiction in what will be remembered as one of the most bizarre incidents in the history of F1. Mere days ago, McLaren insisted that there is no evidence the crash was caused by a car problem, except that Alonso recalls ‘heavy’ steering. “We definitely had a steering problem - it locked to the right,” he told reporters in the FIA press conference. In another contradiction, Alonso denies suffering any loss of memory of the incident, and said he was conscious before, during and afterwards. “There is a time that I don’t remember in the hospital,” said the Spaniard, but he said he only lost consciousness due to medication administered in the circuit medical centre before being airlifted by helicopter. “I remember everything. I was perfectly conscious,” said Alonso. “I didn’t wake up in 1995, or speaking in Italian, or any other things that were out there.” As for McLaren and Ron Dennis’ theory that a gust of wind blew him off the track, Alonso said even “a hurricane wouldn’t have blown the car off at that
speed”. “No, no. Definitely not,” he said of the wind theory. Alonso has dismissed claims a preexisting medical condition was the cause, saying that he is “perfectly healthy” and in the wake of numerous tests and checks joked that he is now “the most medically-checked driver in history”. Steering rack to blame? However, if Alonso’s claims about ‘locked’ steering are true, he might be forgiven for feeling nervous about returning to the cockpit given that McLaren has not found a technical reason for the crash. “It was clear that there was a problem with the car, but it’s not found in the data. I understand completely and support the team. He said he was using a different “steering rack” for his personal driving preference in Barcelona, but has now returned to the standard layout run by teammate Jenson Button and Kevin Magnussen. Alonso also confirmed that new sensors have been added to the car that will help detect similar faults in the future. “I fully trust the team,” he said, “and they’ve spent a month changing every single part that they had any doubts about.” “I think we have the safest car now.”
Unfair advantage? Bernie Ecclestone claims Mercedes had a head-start over its engine rivals at the start of F1’s controversial turbo V6 era. After the 2015 season opener, the F1 supremo sided with furious Renault-powered Red Bull as the former champions urged F1’s governing body to intervene. Now, Ecclestone says Mercedes got a headstart over 2014 rivals Renault and Ferrari when the new engine rules were being devised. “They knew a bit more about the
(proposed) power unit, and because the Mercedes people were in close contact with the FIA in defining the concept of this engine.” “It is why they had such a strong start last year and they are keeping that advantage now,” the 84-year-old Briton added. Ecclestone said efforts to close Mercedes’ huge advantage should now be made, even though he admitted that Renault, “who pushed for this revolution, have failed”.
2015 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge: dates finalised The 25th edition of the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge will take place from 27 March to 2 April 2015 under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region, as the UAE’s top drivers and riders share the stage with the world’s best cross country rally competitors. The spectacular event, organised by the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, the national motor sport authority, is the second of eight rounds in the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies for cars and trucks, and the first of six rounds in the FIM Cross-Country Rallies World Championship for bikes. “The 25th edition of the Desert Challenge is a milestone for the event, for the Club, and for UAE motor sport, and we are indebted to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan for his continued support and encouragement for the Desert Challenge, without which the event would not be possible,” said Mohammed
Ben Sulayem, President of the Automobile and Touring Club of the UAE, the rally organisers. “His support, that of the Armed Forces and the Abu Dhabi government, has allowed us to build an event which is recognised by competitors, officials and media as the best of its kind. “This gives the Desert Challenge a very special flavour all of its own, and it is something that keeps bringing competitors back to the UAE year after year. It was confirmed last week that the 2014 Desert Challenge was the top ranked event in the FIA World Cup for Cross Country Rallies for cars, based on official reports submitted to motor sport’s world governing body by the observers appointed to assess each round. The ATCUAE recently formed a new strategic partnership to promote and develop the event with Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, which is putting more of its resources and
expertise behind the event. This agreement underlines the crucial support provided by Abu Dhabi to ensure the Desert Challenge continues to set the pace in the FIA World Cup and the FIM Cross Country Rallies World Championship for bikes and quads. Again this year the event’s strategic partners include Abu Dhabi Municipality, the UAE Army, Abu Dhabi Police, ADNOC, Abu Dhabi Aviation, Al Ain Water, Abu Dhabi Waste Management, Rotana and Centro Hotels – Yas Island and Qasr Al Sarab Resort by Anantara. The 25th Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge roars to life with a super special spectator stage at Yas Marina Circuit on Saturday 28 March before the cars, bikes and quads set off on a five-day journey through the giant dunes and desert plains of the Western Region. The rally finishes back at Yas Marina Circuit on 2 April. APR 2015
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When an ego takes over The month of March this year brought us the news of Jeremy Clarkson being suspended over a fracas with one of the producers of his show. I resisted the temptation to follow in the fashion of so many colleagues of mine. The social interweb was beckoning for a comment – but I reasoned that it wasn’t really either my job or my calling to comment for or against a luminary like Jeremy Clarkson. He is very close to being an institution in himself. Top Gear, BBC’s motoring show and Mr C go hand in hand to the extent that you really don’t know whether they have separate identities. He has anchored the show, from the days when it was a straightforward car show to one that today has evolved to an extent that most people just call it entertainment. After all what else do you call a show about three middle-aged codgers racing each other around various places in almost anything that moves, with the sundry car report tossed in? The formula works and the show has left competition way behind, earning BBC Worldwide millions of pounds in licence fees and advertising. But what it hasn’t done is make Mr C an idol for Ms. Manners. He has been caught on camera with racist remarks, bad language and a strong chauvinistic streak. Of course he was always a proponent of British marques, even if he had to take a sideswipe at them to get them noticed. But I don’t think anyone was surprised that he took a swipe at his own producer. Actually, I was surprised that BBC actually told him to take a hike, announcing that Top Gear and Mr Clarkson were parting ways. In this clash of egos – the BBC seems to have won the battle, but it’s Clarkson’s war to lose.
Raj Warrior is editor of Automan and has been in the thick of the Automotive journalism field from the past 15 years. Want to comment or have your say? Email at raj@alroya.net. Identify yourself or your message will be trashed and your id blocked
Something similar also happened with another Mr C that I admired. Charlie Sheen had come a long way from his Hot Shots days, but nothing defined him so accurately or so well as his portrayal of Charlie Harper in Two and a Half Men. Okay, so the serial with its subtle and not so subtle storyline of chauvinism, philandering, alcohol and substance abuse, marital discord and female objectification isn’t really the best choice of a benchmark. But Mr Sheen never denied that he was Mr Harper in essence and seven successful years of the serial backed his credibility. It took another showdown with his producer to snap the relationship, which all his drunkenness and substance abuse hadn’t managed. Now, two seasons later and the serial is coming to an end. What does that tell us about the pairing of the protagonists’ ego with the identity of the show? They are inseparable – much to the chagrin of BBC that is what they will discover in the case of Top Gear too. There is far too much at stake here for the boffins to refer to workplace practices and employment rules to find an answer. “Thou shalt not land a haymaker on thine colleagues visage” may well be written into the contract, but if the show is to survive, what the Beeb needs is Mr Clarkson and Oisin Tymon to publicly patch up on Top Gear, with proper contriteness and other faff from the anchor as well as a large monetary donation to some anger management helpline from his pocket. He can afford it and will surely not try it again. And Top Gear can get back to doing what it does – entertain people around the world with its antics. Unfortunately, I had stopped regularly watching the show years ago. The bumbling antics, non-analytical presentation style and rambling plots were not to my taste. But I blame that on my being part of the industry – I don’t need Top Gear to tell me what the best cars are out there. But there are millions who do, so please can we get the show back? However, if Two and a Half Men ever came back on air with Charlie Sheen at the helm, no one would be happier than me.
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APR 2015