Car Xpress June 2012

2012 LR4

2012 Toyota Land Cruiser

Special Guest

Al-Futtaim Motors’ Simon Frith and the Abu Shanab

KSA sr 15 UAE aed 15 OMAN ro 1.5 BHRbd1.5QATARqr15KUWAITkd1.5 International Media Production Zone

Road Test

Volume 8 . Issue 70 . June 2012

WWW.CARXPRESSMAG.COM

Line Up

McLaren F1 Touareg Magic Morning 2012 Ford Focus Maserati Kubang

Winner of the

Dubai Intl. Printing Award

2 011

for best

magazine

Shelby’s Tuatara

Unadulterated adrenaline with twin turbo V8 at 275 MPH

WHY CUT CORNERS WHEN YOU CAN DRIFT THROUGH THEM?

Al-Futtaim Motors is the exclusive agent for Toyota in the United Arab Emirates Dubai: Dubai Festival City (04) 206 6666 Deira (04) 295 4231 Sheikh Zayed Road (04) 310 6666 Abu Dhabi: Airport Road (02) 419 9999

www.toyota.ae

Mussafah (02) 659 3666 Sharjah: Al Wahda Street (06) 503 0555 Industrial Area 12 (06) 513 9700 Al Ain: (03) 721 0888 Ajman: (06) 711 3333 Ras Al Khaimah: (07) 235 1542 Umm Al Quwain: (06) 766 5087 Khorfakkan: (09) 238 6033 Fujairah: (09) 222 4157

fb.com/ToyotaUAE @Toyota_UAE

AFMToyota channel Toyota UAE

as comfortable on the city streets as off the beaten

path.

the wise, the ever-soelegant, it sets example by performance.

the wild spirit, always yearning for more adventure.

always there for the family, yet never hesitant to play.

2 0 1 2 www.nissan-me.com

MEET THE NISSAN SUV’s.

A family that works hard and plays hard.

• Saudi Arabia: Alhamrani United Co., Jeddah, Tel: +966 2 6696690 • Dubai & Northern Emirates: Arabian Automobiles, Tel: +971 4 2952222 • Abu Dhabi & Al Ain: Al Masaood Automobiles, Tel: +971 2 6811118 • Kuwait: Abdulmohsen Abdulaziz Al Babtain Co., Tel: +965 1804888 • Oman: Suhail Bahwan Automobiles, Tel: +968 24560111 • Qatar: Saleh Alhamad Almana Co., Tel: +974 4 4283333 • Bahrain: Y.K. Almoayyed & Sons BSC(C), Tel: +973 1 7732732 • Lebanon: Rasamny – Younis Motor Co. S.A.L. – RYMCO, Beirut, Tel:+9611 273333 • Jordan: Bustami & Saheb Trading Co.L.T.D., Amman, Tel: +962 6 5532456

8

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PRICES - KSA SR 15 UAE AED 15 OMAN RO 1 BAHRAIN BD 1.5 LEBANON LL 10 000 QATAR QR 15 KUWAIT KD 1.5

Volume 7 . Issue 67 . November 2011

The new V12 Zagato Brutally elegant!

Lexus LFA

Pursuing the dream

The Audi e-tron Spyder: 0 to 100 kph in 4.4 seconds

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ar Xpress had the opportunity to be up close with the man behind the launch of the 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser—Simon Frith, managing director of Al-Futtaim Motors, who granted a one-on-one interview during the same event held recently in Dubai.

In the interview, Frith, a man of seeming convivial candidness, went about expressing confidence with no let up about how best a proposition his car is—which was really a no-brainer considering he works for the company exclusively distributing the Land Cruiser.

But with all due fairness, Frith put his dialogue with Car Xpress in a perspective of objectivity. Frith the man in Our Guest for this edition, tells us what has become of the bearded one—the Abu Shanab.

In another field runs the new Ford Focus, which late this month was scheduled to be put to a litmus test as six of its kind will course through a 4,000-kilometer route across the GCC for a 10-day endurance race.

Starting from Riyadh and finishing in Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the race was participated in by teams representing each of the six countries that the race will run through. The car did well. See story in the Motor Sports section.

Still on another note, what makes a fast car good are high power, low weight and a really mean look which could then be the McLaren F1, right?

We think so. The Mclaren is the first production car to use carbon fiber monocoque design, which was once the domain of aircraft builders making high-performance, lightweight flying machines.

This means that outer panels necessary for creating the vehicle shape are given the minimum necessary reinforcement to ensure strength and rigidity.

This means the car was designed to fly. Learn more about the McLaren F1 in this edition’s Exotic Car section.

A

C

The provocative Reventon Inspired by the fastest airplanes

Cadillac XTS Platinum Re-imagining the luxury sedan

lea

Letter

An Improved CONTENT, a new LOOK & a larger CIRCULATON

Get yourself or someone a special gift and order an officially certified high quality framed Car Xpress cover with any picture you choose.

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Price of the framed certified cover is: 500 AED.

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Send us an e-mail with your full name & e-mail address, & write down the magazine’s name, to the following e-mail address: admin@kalimatgroup.com

Josua Joplin

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CONTENTS GET A DIGITAL FEEL OF OUR NEWS, CARS, REPORTS, DRIVERS AND MORE @ WWW.CARXPRESSMAG.COM

P66

Concept Car

BMW vision ConnectedDrive say hello to the star of mission impossible 4

On the Cover Cover Story

26

Road Tests

33

Our Guest

80

The Tuatara

On the driver’s seat, we tell you how it is 2012 LR4 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser

A one-on-one with Mr. Simon Frith, managing director of Al-Futtaim Motors, on the Abu Shanab—The Toyota Land Cruiser’s local name carxpressmag.com

11

2012 Lr4

2012 ToyoTa Land CrUiser

Special Guest

Al-Futtaim Motors’ Simon Frith and the Abu Shanab

KSA sr 15 UAE aed 15 OMAN ro 1.5 BHRbd1.5QATARqr15KUWAITkd1.5 International Media Production Zone

CONTENTS

Road Test

Volume 8 . Issue 70 . June 2012

WWW.CarXPressMaG.CoM

Line Up

McLaren F1 Touareg Magic Morning 2012 Ford Focus Maserati Kubang

Updates

GET A DIGITAL FEEL OF OUR NEWS, CARS, REPORTS, DRIVERS AND MORE @ WWW.CARXPRESSMAG.COM

One millionth Land Rover LR4

R ead more inside

The vehicle has embarked on a fundraiser expedition from Birmingham to Beijing for a $1.58 million water sanitation project in Uganda. P18

16 Updates

Montblanc’s ‘time-writing’ device

Nicolas Rieussec chronograph anniversary edition unveiled in honour of the watch’s inventor who came up with a mechanism that allowed for a more accurate timekeeping. P19

News, views & novelties

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

The double wishbone suspension has been adopted, and the coil spring and shock absorber control characteristics have been changed.

New re-designed Lexus 2012 LX570

Audi’s refreshed A5 model series has arrived in showrooms across the Middle East. The Sportback, the Coupé and the Cabriolet models feature cuttingedge technologies which make them even more efficient, sporty and powerful—engines, the chassis and infotainment alike.

Audi has expanded the engine portfolio for the A5 range in the Middle East and now offers a new entry-level 1.8 TFSI multitronic, a 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic and a 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic for all body variants. The 2.0 TFSI A5 Cabriolet now features quattro four-wheel drive as a standard.

All the engines are turbocharged direct-injection units which provide plenty of torque; even the entry-level engine delivers 320 Nm of torque. The start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard in every version. Their CO2 emissions have been reduced by up to 18 percent. The A5 Coupé sips a mere 5.8 l/100 km – which equates to 134 grams of CO2 per km – the best of any vehicle in its class.

The revised design gives clear visual expression to their revitalized character. On the outside the new Audi A5 features a new high-gloss, black singleframe grille and bumper, sleek fog lights as well as

xenon plus headlights, LED daytime running lights and rear lights. Crisply rendered edges give the Audi A5 a broader, flatter appearance while maintaining outstanding crash-safety.

The A5 models’ interiors have become even more elegant. Audi equips the interior with new steering wheels, upholstery, inlays and colors, a new automatic selector lever, understated chrome braces on the controls as well as overhauled buttons, instrument cluster and center console.

The assistance systems on the A5 have been upgraded with new functions, including the break recommendation which monitors the driver for signs of tiredness, and the enhanced adaptive cruise control. Audi active lane assist and side assist support the driver in remaining in lane and during lane changes.

The infotainment systems in the new A5 range have been fundamentally advanced. The latest generation of the optional MMI navigation plus, the top-of-the-range version, features a large hard-disk drive, a DVD player and a seven-inch color monitor with 3D navigation mapping. The Bluetooth online car phone (option) offers navigation via Google Earth images and a WLAN hotspot.

16

Tenneco unveils the future in suspension solutions BRUSSELS, Belgium. -- Tenneco Inc. is capturing growth worldwide with its next generation of advanced semi- and fully-active suspension systems such as CES, Kinetic® H2/CES and ACOCAR™.

Tenneco was one of the first to invent shock absorber technology in the early 1900s under the Monroe® brand name. Today the company’s suspension

carxpressmag.com

solutions which include shocks, struts, springs, complete corner modules, elastomers and advanced electronic systems - are present somewhere in almost every major vehicle manufacturer’s product range, including passenger cars, SUVs, MPVs and commercial vehicles.

“We are constantly striving to provide

42 Campus Beat

throughout the new model, emphasized by the spindle grille which is created by combining the upper grille shaped like a reversed trapezoid, with a lower grille that spreads outwards in a downwards direction.

Moreover, not only is the LX570 interior spacious, it also ensures a unique, luxurious driving experience. Driving reliability and drivability have also been enhanced in the development of the new model. The new MTS (Multi-Terrain Select) feature optimally distributes drive force to the four wheels based on five different road surface conditions. This is achieved by controlling the A-TRC (Active Traction Control), which applies breaking force to a slipped wheel and implements control so that drive torque can be transmitted to the road surface. The LX570 also comes with crawl control and the newly adopted turn assist system, which is a world first technology.

The FJ Cruiser comes to town

the latest advances in ride control technologies,” said Sandro Paparelli, vice president and general manager, Ride Control Europe. “Safety and the feel of a vehicle’s ride remain among the top influencers in consumer buying decisions. Tenneco is continuing to help OEMs deliver better handling and the ride that consumers prefer.”

Tenneco’s continuously controlled electronic suspension system, or CES, is at the heart of its new generation of advanced technologies. The ability to combine CES with air suspension, anti-roll technology and hydraulic leveling systems provides a wide range of innovative suspension possibilities.

carxpressmag.com

Featuring in this edition:

17

L A N D

R o v e R

RoadTest

46 Exotic Car McLaren F1 What makes a fast car good?

Ride

business class

52 Motor Sport Team Qadiroon tops Ford Focus Rabaa Rally

The LR4 on the road

carxpressmag.com

motor sport

carxpressmag.com

SPEX

Maximum Speed 195 kph Acceleration 0-100 kph 7.9 seconds Towing Max 3500 kg Fuel Economy Urban L/100 km 19.8 Extra urban 10.7 Engine 5.0 L V8 Petrol

34

2 011

for best magazine

Shelby’s Tuatara

Unadulterated adrenaline with twin turbo V8 at 275 MPH

Toyota Motor Corporation’s Middle East and North Africa Representative Office has announced its new, re-designed 2012 Lexus LX 570 is now in the Middle East. The 2012 LX570, the flagship SUV in the Lexus lineup, has seen its key components of luxury and driving performance revised and updated, setting a new standard in the premium SUV market.

Sadayoshi Koyari, chief engineer, Lexus Product Planning Group, said that since the company’s full model change in 2007, the LX570 has seen a steady increase in sales in the Middle East.

“With the new LX, we have advanced and refined this vehicle, making it a symbol of SUV’s through its dynamic stylings and unparalleled driving performance,” he said.

The 2012 LX 570, features changes to the exterior with a sense of presence and a distinct premium feel. L- Finesse styling is apparent

Audi A5 range expands portfolio in the Middle East

Winner of the Dubai Intl. Printing Award

35

58 SUVs Touareg Magic Morning A slightly tamed Race Touareg at US$2 million Maserati Kubang A new Maserati vehicle in the sport luxury SUV segment

Team Qadiroon Tops Ford Focusrabaa rally

The winning team with Host Dany Neville and Ford Middle East’s Paul Anderson (Extreme right).

Publisher Kalimat Group International FZ - LLC CEO Hekmat el Zein Managing Director Shatha Sharaffdeen Car Xpress Head Office Office G4, Building No.1, Phase One, P.O. Box 502408 Dubai Media City, UAE Tel: +971 4 391 0410/1/2/3 Fax: +971 4 391 6619 Editor Josua Joplin Assistant Editor Ayman Mujahed Creative Director Matt Drake Creative Designer Najeeb Hamza Photographer Maher Rashed Contributors Shawn Carroll Alistair Weaver Digital Creative i.

Marketing Ali Seif Arif Shah Crisna De Guzman Circulation Mohamad Jasnaz Car Xpress Lebanon Office Riad el solh 11072070 P.O.Box 11-1197 Beirut, Lebanon Tel: +961 3 208 528 Fax: +961 1 924 440

Car Xpress Ten-day pan-GCC motoring challenge started in Riyadh and finished at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa carxpressmag.com

carxpressmag.com

51

72 2Ways

concept car

50

BMW Vision ConnectedDrive

Readers’ suggestions & comments. Let’s talk about it

74 Vintage A walk down memory lane Mini From humble beginnings to stardom

Star of Mission Impossible 4 64

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carxpressmag.com

65

12

carxpressmag.com

Silver Winner of the Dubai International Printing Award 2011 for best magazine

recycle

kindly recycle when you are finsihed with it Car Xpress Disclaimer The material used in this publication is intended for informational purposes only. A sincere effort has been made to report details accurately, however, as specifications and models vary over time and upgrades are constantly appearing on the market, readers are advised to seek specialist assistance before acting on information offered in this publication.

All text and layout remains the copyright of Kalimat Group International FZ LLC, unless stated otherwise. Car Xpress is fully independent, and its views are not those of any company mentioned herein.

No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

All rights reserved. © 2012 Kalimat Group International

Audi R8 GT Spyder is coming In the next issue

DESERT PALM

Desert Palm by Per AQUUM offers 36 exclusive rooms, suites and private pool villas together with LIME Spa.

Exquisitely prepared dishes from the show kitchen can be found at Rare Restaurant while Epicure serves all day dining delights in a deli style ambiance next to the in nity pool.

Watch

polo on one of the four championship polo elds between October and April, enjoy Jewel afternoon tea on the terrace or relax with a signature treatment in LIME.

To book please call the retreat on Tel +971 4 323 8888 email info@desertpalm.ae and visit www.desertpalm.ae

Updates

R ead more inside

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Check out Audi’s A5 model series Cutting-edge technologies now available in showrooms. P18

2012 GT-R breaks threesecond barrier Arabian Automobiles’ price stays static The Nissan GT-R breaks on through supercar territory with an even more devastating power and performance coming up with a 2012 version that generates 550bhp capable of shattering the 100km/h barrier from standstill in just 2.8 seconds.

It’s more than a match for all but a very few— substantially more expensive—rivals.

Icing on cake is that on sale in showrooms since January 2012, Arabian Automobiles, the exclusive distributor of Nissan and Infiniti in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, has retained the GT-R’s 2011 price of AED 435,000 despite its long list of upgrades.

“The Nissan GT-R offers a unique combination of talents: it competes and beats supercars on performance; offers the refinement of a luxury car; and is versatile enough to carry four passengers and their luggage,” said James Thomas, General Manager – Marketing & Corporate Communications, Arabian Automobiles.

“The 2012 model raises GT-R’s capabilities to new highs but for Arabian Automobiles’ customers there is no increase in price. That underlines our commitment to deliver the best possible deal to our customers no matter whether the vehicle is the smallest, largest or most prestigious model in the range.”

Significant improvements to the engine, chassis and transmission are among key changes to this flagship model by Nissan.

16

carxpressmag.com

Lexus’ flagship SUV The LX570 is equipped with an array of features including 7-inch monitors,Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), an Active Traction Control System (A-TRC), Multi-Terrain ABS with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and a Pre Crash Safety System. P19

Redesigned 2012 Honda CR-V in 3 grades The all new fourth generation CR-V is now available in GCC and Near East in three different grades–LX, EX and EX-Leather.

The all new CR-V now enters into its 4th generation with enhanced exterior aesthetics, car like interior comfort, innovative features and a smoother and quieter ride; and is designed to offer urban sophistication and exceed customer expectation of a five-seater compact SUV. Compared to the previous-generation CR-V, the 2012 model takes on a more aggressive and aerodynamic stance with deeper sculpting of the bodylines and a bolder front fascia. The front bumper’s smooth-flowing lines are highlighted by a horizontal three-bar grille and deeply set multireflector headlights. The lower front bumper wraps smartly upward to convey SUV capability with a generous approach angle, while the lower front bumper design with fog lights (only for EX & EXLeather grades) now integrates more smoothly with the fascia for improved aerodynamics.

The all new CR-V is powered by a 2.4L,

DOHC, in-line 4 cylinder gasoline engine that produces max. power of 188 HP @ 7,000 rpm - up by 20 HP compared to the previous generation. And max. torque is 22.6 kg-m @ 4,400 rpm. A host of innovative features are designed to deliver a cuttingedge combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and low emissions. Most apparent is the i-VTEC “intelligent” valve-control system – which results in good fuel economy and low exhaust emissions.

The 5-AT gearbox works in conjunction with the engine’s Drive-By-Wire™ throttle control to smoothly shift between gears.

The car is covered by a 3-year/100,000-km new-car limited warranty.

Roger Dubuis What more is there to say?

Fuel consumption has gone down from 12L to

11.8L/100kms.

Roger Dubuis has been at the forefront of the contemporary fine watchmaking scene since 1995.

Its audacious creations, firmly anchored in the 21st century, bear the mark of all the savoir-faire and expertise of the finest watchmaking mechanisms.

Rich in conceptual creativity and mechanical detail, its collections are inspired by four different worlds: Player, Warrior, and two newcomers: Venturer and Diva.

Roger Dubuis immerses itself in the atmosphere of each of these worlds to create exceptional watch models. The Monégasque Collection refers to the boldness and wit of the world of the Player. The Excalibur Collection is influenced by the strength, brilliance and discipline of the world of the Warrior.

The limitations of ordinary life have no place in the world of the Venturer, or in the Pulsion watch models that evoke it. Finally, the world of the Diva is impregnated with elegance and

carxpressmag.com

17

beauty, just like the Velvet Collection that has been inspired by it.

Updates

One millionth Land Rover LR4

The vehicle has embarked on a fundraiser expedition from Birmingham to Beijing for a $1.58 million water sanitation project in Uganda. P20

R ead more inside

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

The double wishbone suspension has been adopted, and the coil spring and shock absorber control characteristics have been changed.

Audi A5 range expands portfolio in the Middle East Audi’s refreshed A5 model series has arrived in showrooms across the Middle East. The Sportback, the Coupé and the Cabriolet models feature cuttingedge technologies which make them even more efficient, sporty and powerful—engines, the chassis and infotainment alike.

Audi has expanded the engine portfolio for the A5 range in the Middle East and now offers a new entry-level 1.8 TFSI multitronic, a 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic and a 3.0 TFSI quattro S tronic for all body variants. The 2.0 TFSI A5 Cabriolet now features quattro four-wheel drive as a standard.

All the engines are turbocharged direct-injection units which provide plenty of torque; even the entry-level engine delivers 320 Nm of torque. The start-stop system and the recuperation system are standard in every version. Their CO2 emissions have been reduced by up to 18 percent. The A5 Coupé sips a mere 5.8 l/100 km – which equates to 134 grams of CO2 per km – the best of any vehicle in its class.

The revised design gives clear visual expression to their revitalized character. On the outside the new Audi A5 features a new high-gloss, black singleframe grille and bumper, sleek fog lights as well as

xenon plus headlights, LED daytime running lights and rear lights. Crisply rendered edges give the Audi A5 a broader, flatter appearance while maintaining outstanding crash-safety.

The A5 models’ interiors have become even more elegant. Audi equips the interior with new steering wheels, upholstery, inlays and colors, a new automatic selector lever, understated chrome braces on the controls as well as overhauled buttons, instrument cluster and center console.

The assistance systems on the A5 have been upgraded with new functions, including the break recommendation which monitors the driver for signs of tiredness, and the enhanced adaptive cruise control. Audi active lane assist and side assist support the driver in remaining in lane and during lane changes.

The infotainment systems in the new A5 range have been fundamentally advanced. The latest generation of the optional MMI navigation plus, the top-of-the-range version, features a large hard-disk drive, a DVD player and a seven-inch color monitor with 3D navigation mapping. The Bluetooth online car phone (option) offers navigation via Google Earth images and a WLAN hotspot.

18

carxpressmag.com

Tenneco unveils the future in suspension solutions BRUSSELS, Belgium. -- Tenneco Inc. is capturing growth worldwide with its next generation of advanced semi- and fully-active suspension systems such as CES, Kinetic® H2/CES and ACOCAR™.

Tenneco was one of the first to invent shock absorber technology in the early 1900s under the Monroe® brand name. Today the company’s suspension

Montblanc’s ‘time-writing’ device

Nicolas Rieussec chronograph anniversary edition unveiled in honour of the watch’s inventor who came up with a mechanism that allowed for a more accurate timekeeping. P21

New re-designed Lexus 2012 LX570 Toyota Motor Corporation’s Middle East and North Africa Representative Office has announced its new, re-designed 2012 Lexus LX 570 is now in the Middle East. The 2012 LX570, the flagship SUV in the Lexus lineup, has seen its key components of luxury and driving performance revised and updated, setting a new standard in the premium SUV market.

Sadayoshi Koyari, chief engineer, Lexus Product Planning Group, said that since the company’s full model change in 2007, the LX570 has seen a steady increase in sales in the Middle East.

“With the new LX, we have advanced and refined this vehicle, making it a symbol of SUV’s through its dynamic stylings and unparalleled driving performance,” he said.

The 2012 LX 570, features changes to the exterior with a sense of presence and a distinct premium feel. L- Finesse styling is apparent solutions which include shocks, struts, springs, complete corner modules, elastomers and advanced electronic systems - are present somewhere in almost every major vehicle manufacturer’s product range, including passenger cars, SUVs, MPVs and commercial vehicles.

“We are constantly striving to provide

the latest advances in ride control technologies,” said Sandro Paparelli, vice president and general manager, Ride Control Europe. “Safety and the feel of a vehicle’s ride remain among the top influencers in consumer buying decisions. Tenneco is continuing to help OEMs deliver better handling and the ride that consumers prefer.”

Tenneco’s continuously controlled electronic suspension system, or CES, is at the heart of its new generation of advanced technologies. The ability to combine CES with air suspension, anti-roll technology and hydraulic leveling systems provides a wide range of innovative suspension possibilities.

carxpressmag.com

19

throughout the new model, emphasized by the spindle grille which is created by combining the upper grille shaped like a reversed trapezoid, with a lower grille that spreads outwards in a downwards direction.

Moreover, not only is the LX570 interior spacious, it also ensures a unique, luxurious driving experience. Driving reliability and drivability have also been enhanced in the development of the new model. The new MTS (Multi-Terrain Select) feature optimally distributes drive force to the four wheels based on five different road surface conditions. This is achieved by controlling the A-TRC (Active Traction Control), which applies breaking force to a slipped wheel and implements control so that drive torque can be transmitted to the road surface. The LX570 also comes with crawl control and the newly adopted turn assist system, which is a world first technology.

Updates

A luxury electric sports saloon from Pininfarina The environment-friendly Cambiano incorporates an APU (Auxiliary Power Unit) to charge the batteries and, when necessary, to supply energy directly to the motors. P22

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

One millionth LR4 journeys from Birmingham to Beijing The 1,000,000th Land Rover LR4 has gone on a “Journey of Discovery” from its birthplace in Birmingham to Beijing in China – one of Land Rover’s fastest growing markets – to mark this milestone.

The 50-day, 12,875-kilometre adventure was undertaken by three Land Rover LR4 vehicles travelling through more than a dozen countries across Europe and Central Asia, culminating at the Beijing Motor Show on April 23, 2012.

The expedition also presented Land Rover with the opportunity to launch its most ambitious fund-raising project yet by aiming to raise £1million [(GBP)/

$1,583,350 (USD)] for the company’s Global Humanitarian Partner, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). The money will be used to support a much needed water sanitation project in Uganda.

Since the first LR4 came to market as a third model to sit between the luxurious Range Rover and the rugged Defender, the vehicle has carved its own market segment and become an international success story.

The Land Rover LR4 is one of the world’s most practical vehicles – it can seat seven passengers, has a load space volume of up to 2,500 litres and is packed with technology including Land Rover’s awardwinning Terrain Response System, which adapts the vehicle to respond to differing terrains and driving conditions including snow and sand.

The success of the LR4 alongside other Land Rover models has helped to create a positive momen-

20

carxpressmag.com

tum at the company’s Solihull operations. The facility now employs around 6,000 people following a recruitment drive launch six month ago, boosting the workforce by 20% to support its expansion plans.

The expedition began on February 29, 2012 at a special event for employees at Jaguar Land Rover’s Solihull manufacturing facility, where the LR4 was built. The vehicle bid farewell by a reception that included some famous explorers and adventurers. All of whom have put their faith in the LR4 in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Those who attended included Bear Grylls, Sir Ranulph Fiennes, Ray Mears, Monty Halls and Polar explorer Ben Saunders.

The challenge follows in the tyre tracks of “The First Overland Expedition” of 1955, in which a team in Series 1 Land Rovers set out from Birmingham to Beijing. That expedition had to divert to Singapore, but in the spirit of the original challenge the LR4 will

Environment-conscious inventor “We stopped trying to create and fix one-off, niche vehicles, and it made all the difference in the world.” — Ming Kuang, Technical leader in vehicle controls at Ford Electrification Research and Advanced Engineering. P23

be crossing many of Land Rover’s major markets including the UK, Russia and China.

Phil Popham, Group Sales Operations Director, Jaguar Land Rover said: “The LR4 is an extraordinary vehicle and it deserves to be unleashed on an extraordinary journey. There is no better vehicle to tackle all weather, all terrain than the LR4 4. This gruelling expedition will be visiting 13 countries and covering 12875 kilometres, and it’s a fitting initiative to celebrate the one millionth vehicle.”

Presenting the all-new BMW 320i BMW lovers in the Middle East can now purchase the all-new BMW 3 Series sedan with a third engine variant – the BMW 320i.

Having sold 12.5 million cars since its launch in 1975, the BMW 3 Series continues to be BMW Group’s worldwide best-selling model series consistently accounting for more than a quarter of the company’s global sales. With the addition of the BMW 320i, BMW Group is expanding its 3 Series product offering and making the world’s best-selling premium car even more accessible to a wider customer audience across the region.

Commenting on the BMW 320i’s arrival, Dr. Joerg Breuer, Managing Director, BMW Group

Middle East said: “The BMW 3 Series has been riding the wave of success ever since its launch 37 years ago – in fact, every third BMW sold in 2011 was a 3 Series. It is therefore a very important model for BMW Group, and by adding an additional engine variant, we expect to achieve even greater success.”

Performance and technology have always been key areas of expertise for the BMW brand, and agility and driving dynamics remain outstanding attributes of the new BMW 3 Series. Customers can now choose from two powerful TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder engines: 320i, 328i and the six-cylinder 335i; that all come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox and TwinPower Turbo engines technology.

Montblanc Nicolas Rieussec chronograph anniversary edition Last year was a special year for the chronograph, which celebrated its 190th anniversary. A watch complication which is near to the heart of Montblanc, a brand which not only epitomizes the art of high-quality Swiss watchmaking, but is also the world’s bestknown manufacturer of fine writing instruments.

Chronos means “time” and

graphein means “to write.”

The “time-writing” device, the first chronograph was unveiled by its inventor, Nicolas Rieussec, in 1821. He unveiled a wooden case containing a watch movement that powered two enamel dials, positioned above this one and calibrated with scales for the seconds and the minutes. Above these dials he had affixed a slender hand with ink-filled nibs attached to its tip. While the dials turned, the timekeeper at a race could press a button the instant a horse crossed the finish line, thus triggering the hands to touch the dials and leave little ink marks on them.

The running times of the individual horses and the time differences were literally written on the dials.

This was the first time in the history of horology

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that an instrument could measure precise short time intervals. Inspired by the notion “Writing time”, he called his invention “Chronograph”.

A very subtle and pure, yet classique guilloche pattern gives emphasis to the watches iconic features. An hourscircle displays the ordinary time of day.

Updates

More orders booked

R ead more inside

Fresh from the recent Monaco car show, orders for this Renovatio T 500 have been mounting. P24

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Presenting the

Pininfarina Cambiano

Italian car design firm and coachbuilder, Pininfarina has launched a luxury electric sports saloon which it described as a “perfect combination of design, art and technology than embodies Italian style and respect of the environment.”

It is a new approach to luxury in the car, according to Pininfarina’s school of thought. The Cambiano, a concept car named after the town where Pininfarina is headquartered, is environment-friendly.

“The Cambiano is an expression of Pininfarina today, embodying all of the company’s skills in terms of style, planning and research in the field of sustainable mobility,” stated a statement from the company.

The luxury sports saloon embodies the innovative archetypes of Pininfarina design in full. In a way, it was Pininfarina’s first real concept car.

The Cambiano breaks with the general trend of design that is overloaded with elements, and confidently embraces the return of pure form as the absolute value, in the best “tradition” of Italian Style,

reflecting the deepest essence of Pininfarina Design.

The Cambiano reveals its true character at first glance, starting from the unconventional layout of the doors: on the driver’s side the car is a sports coupe with a single door, but on the passenger side there are two doors that open from the centre with no central pillar. This simplifies access and makes the most of the spacious, luminous passenger compartment.

The drive system is based on four electric motors, one for each wheel, and of their respective reduction gear. The four motors, which are produced by Magneti Marelli, are mounted on the front and rear frames and each delivers a continuous supply of 60 kW with peaks of 150 kW for a total of 600 kW maximum power output, with torque of 640 Nm. Each motor is controlled separately and electronically to guarantee various functions, including energy regeneration when decelerating and braking, traction control.

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Top speed 0 to 100 km/h Maximum power delivery of electric motors Peak power delivery of battery

: 275 km/h : 4.2 sec : 600 kW : 500 kW

World’s first digital binocular

Run-flat tyre Bridgestone introduces POTENZA S001 RFT, which will be marketed in 16 sizes starting this summer. P25

Users can connect the binoculars via any HD/3D television for big-screen sharing. P25

Ming Kuang

Ford now has 500 patents Ayman Ghanem , Rolls-Royce Sales Manager, Middle East & Africa, Kadhim Hasan Hamza Al Helli , Rolls-Royce Brand Manager, Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors, James Crichton , Rolls-Royce Re gional Director, Middle East, Africa & Latin America, Hosam Loulou, Rolls-Royce Sales Consultant

Abu Dhabi Motors named Regional Dealer of the Year Abu Dhabi Motors, sole dealer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, was named Regional Dealer of the Year 2011 at the annual Rolls-Royce World Dealer Conference recently held in New York.

Abu Dhabi Motors was also given recognition for being the biggest-selling Bespoke Rolls-Royce Ghost dealer in the world, boasting the richest bespoke specifications. The dealer also received awards for recording the “Highest Sales Growth Phantom Family,” “Highest Bespoke Revenue in the Middle East” and “Best Parts and Accessories Performance.”

Celebrating and recognising the best performing dealers for their dedication, professionalism and commitment to the brand throughout 2011 as well as their applied systems and processes in sales and after sales, the Rolls-Royce Dealer Awards Program is one of the most sought after recognitions in the industry. Designed to improve operational standards, ensure top class customer experiences and encourage sales throughout the region, the awards honoured Abu Dhabi Motors for the pivotal role it has played in contributing to increasing global sales of the Rolls-Royce brand.

“Receiving international recognition for our

role in the global Rolls-Royce performance is an incentive to work even harder to underpin the UAE’s appetite for individuality and exclusivity in the ultra-luxury segment,” said Arno Husselmann, General Manager of Abu Dhabi Motors.

“The Rolls-Royce brand is stronger than ever in the UAE Capital, and we hope to continue with further growth in the coming year to reaffirm our position as the best-selling dealer of Rolls-Royce vehicles in the entire region.”

2011 saw Abu Dhabi Motors maintain its status as one of the top ten Rolls-Royce dealers in the world, with a reported 16 percent growth in sales. The company also secured a 180% increase in sales for the Phantom, Rolls-Royces’ flagship model, the highest in the world.

The Rolls-Royce Motor Cars 2011 Dealer Awards Program is based on a scoring mechanism that sets high standards for each dealer to meet in order to be considered for the awards. Recognition is given to dealers who have shown excellence in sales performance, standards compliance and overall dedication to the brand during 2011.

Abu Dhabi Motors, founded in 1990, is also the exclusive importer for BMW, MINI, and BMW Alpina.

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Thanks to an environmentconscious inventor Ford has announced that it now holds nearly 500 patents for its hybrid technology, thanks to a pool of inventors, among them Ming Kuang, who has helped grow Ford’s hybrid patent portfolio from 10 in 2000 to its present count.

Kuang’s reason is simple, even though his inventions are complex and among the most advanced technologies available on Ford Motor Company hybrid vehicles.

“The work on Ford’s hybrid and range of more fuel-efficient vehicles is all about a commitment I made a long time ago to have a positive effect on our environment,” said Kuang. “It’s about helping make the world my children live in – and the world my children’s children will live in – a better place.”

Kuang, 52, is technical leader in vehicle controls at Ford Electrification Research and Advanced Engineering in Dearborn, Michigan, USA. Kuang’s innovations can be found throughout Ford’s transformed lineup, one-third of which will feature a model with 40 mpg or more in 2012 and built on the company’s commitment to go further by giving fuel-efficiency-minded customers the power of choice.

For example, one patent covers the display system for the Fusion Energi plug-in hybrid that shows how efficiently the power of the car is being used.

Fusion Energi is projected to achieve a better miles per gallon equivalent in electric mode than Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid.

Updates

Goodyear for General Motors

General Motors’ 2012 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Porsche’s 911 Carrera will use Goodyear’s high performance tires, the Eagle F1 SupercarG:2 and award-winning Eagle F1 Asymmetric 2 tires respectively. Both cars will be come with Goodyear tires as exclusive original equipment fitment.

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Tushek Renovatio T 500 super sportscar gathers speed Catapulted into the limelight at the tiramisù of automotive gluttony, the top marques in Monaco, Ljubljana-based Tushek Supercars went back to Slovenia with a burgeoning little black book with a list that includes potential buyers’ enquiries, booked test drives, enquiries from dealers worldwide, as well as two orders for Tushek’s Renovatio T 500, the model launched at the show.

“We were pleasantly surprised by the amount of interest the Renovatio T 500 has generated,” said Aljosa Tushek, Managing Director of Tushek Supercars. “We are aware that the market for bespoke, hand-built super sportscars is furiously competitive, but it seems that a limited production roadgoing car with extreme racing elements is a winning combination.”

The Renovatio T 500 is an in-house project with Tushek’s

own engineering, technical and design packaging, though 30% of its sub-frame is derived from the K1 Attack. Suspension is a race-inspired front pushrod/ rear double wishbone set-up. Power is supplied by a 4.2 V8 engine borrowed from the Audi RS4, though the Renovatio is a much lighter car, weighing in at 1090 kg. Top speed is 193mph and 0-62mph is reached in 3.7sec. Prices start at 300k euro.

Tushek Supercars is also growing as an engineering business able to develop and manufacture parts for racing teams and other car companies.

The first two cars to roll off the Tushek production line have already been sold and two new orders were made as a result of the company’s launch in Monaco. With enquiries from Monaco, India, China, Japan, Australia, California, Dubai and Italy, Tushek is appointing official dealers in the relevant countries, and negotiations are under way for a dedicated dealer and satellite office in the UK.

For the hardcore collector and sportscar fan

24

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500 GB external hard drive launched Seagate Technology plc. has launched the GoFlex Satellite—a battery-powered external hard drive with 500GB storage, the first of its kind, to wirelessly extend the storage capacity of any wi-fi enabled mobile device.

The hard drive can save up to over 300 HD videos and many large music collections: an advantage to all iOS and mobile devices or smartphone users planning a trip.

In addition, due to its wireless connectivity function, up to three users can connect and enjoy streaming content at the same time.

“A lot of people will be travelling abroad or long-distance for the summer holidays and packing all their digital material can at most times be a nightmare. That is where the GoFlex Satellite comes in”, says Christian Assaf, Senior Channel Sales Manager for the Middle East and Africa.

The GoFlex also benefits gamers to store games and profiles without a glitch. With a USB 3.0 slot the Seagate GoFlex Satellite allows high-speed transfers of the largest of files within seconds and with a battery life over 5 hours on a charge this becomes a necessity for the holiday period. The GoFlex is a device that is important to people of all ages and serves many digital purposes making it a must have for users.

With a rechargeable lithium polymer battery, Wi-Fi access over 802.11 b/g/n and devices are wirelessly connected directly to the GoFlex Satellite drive by use of the free GoFlex Media app or a web browser.

Sony Mobile Xperia U debuts

Sony Mobile Communications has launched the Xperia U, the latest in the next generation smartphones NXT series. Incorporating the best of Sony technology and premium entertainment, the Xperia NXT series is a cornerstone of the brand’s connected experience. The phones allow consumers to enjoy and share content on a screen that best suits them such as the smartphone, TV, laptop or tablet.

Infiniti in the palm of your hand

Bridgestone launches run-flat tyre Bridgestone has announced the launch of its new Run-Flat Technology tyre for the replacement market in Middle East and Africa, the POTENZA S001 RFT, which will be marketed in 16 sizes starting this summer. POTENZA S001 RFT is a Run-Flat tyre that meets ISO16992 standard, which stipulates that run-flat running performance of a tyre must be 80km at 80km/h on a drum test.

As environmental awareness grows worldwide, automakers are accelerating the introduction of lighter, smaller vehicles. In response to this growing trend, Bridgestone has developed its Run-Flat Technology (RFT) that will significantly advance the use of RFT tyres by original equipment manufacturers.

Additionally, RFT tyres also eliminate the need for spare tyres in passenger vehicles.

Bridgestone’s RFT tyres have three major advantages: Improved driving stability should the tyre experience air loss; greater peace of mind as should air loss occur, there is no need to change tyres in dangerous places like busy highways or at night; continued mobility should a puncture dam-

age the tyre tread and sidewalls.

Eliminating spare tyres from vehicles globally would help save resources by reducing approximately 59 million spare tyres annually. Furthermore, CO2 emissions over the spare tyre lifecycle- from raw material procurement to disposal - could be lowered by approximately 2 million tons of CO2 per year.

Additional CO2 emissions can be further reduced by the elimination of the wheels used for the spare tyres.

The key feature of Bridgestone’s RFT tyres design includes a reinforced sidewall.

When Bridgestone began mass production of RFT tyres in 1987, the ride quality was considered “hard” compared to normal tyres because the sidewalls were thick and somewhat inflexible. Since 2005, however, improvements have been made to sidewall reinforced rubber that enhanced riding comfort. Heat control technology, which was developed and commercialized in 2009, has also helped make the ride even smoother.

Sony offers first digital binocular - DEV-5 Sony has introduced the world’s first digital binocular with the capacity to record full HD video with stereo sound, at the touch of a button—the DEV-5.

Perfect for watching and capturing wildlife and sporting action in steady, sharply-focused close-up, Sony’s new binoculars has a 3D record mode that can capture the scene as a thrilling stereoscopic video footage. Variable zoom allows

users to scan a wide area at low magnification before zooming in seamlessly to pinpoint the distant subject.

By turning on digital zoom at magnification settings over 10x, the DEV-5 boosts total magnification range from 0.9x up to 20x, as against other high-powered conventional binoculars.

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Infiniti has announced the introduction of its first dedicated mobile website in the Middle East, allowing optimized access to its online offering from any location. Compatible with the main smart phone and tablet platforms, including Android, Blackberry®, Apple iPhone and iPad, m.infiniti-me.com delivers all the information on the Infiniti brand and its model range in the Middle East in a format best suited to handheld screens and resolutions.

Visitors to m.infiniti-me.com are presented with a simplified main menu offering five navigation options: Infiniti Models; Locate a Dealer; Book a Test Drive; Request a Brochure; and About Infiniti.

From here, users can access the information they are searching for in a matter of just two clicks, ensuring a speedy, efficient and rewarding journey through the site. Those visitors will also find all information is available in both English and Arabic languages.

Cover Story A special choice for an awesome read.

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Tuatara?

A New Zealand reptile with “peaks on the back� just like this car

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Meet Shelby’s latest contribution to automobile enthusiasts worldwide

Tuatara has the fastest evolving DNA in the world so does Shelby SuperCars which made this work of art.

“Most manufacturers essentially use the same basic model and body shape for up to 10 years, while only making small refinements to it each year,” says Jerod Shelby, Shelby SuperCars founder, lead designer and CEO. “After only three years in production with the Ultimate Aero, SSC’s Tuatara is about to monumentally evolve in the areas of sophistication, design, aerodynamics and shear all-around performance,” he says.

The name “Tuatara” was inspired by a modernday New Zealand reptile that bears the same name.

A direct descendant of the dinosaur, this reptile’s name translated from the Maori language means “peaks on the back,” which is quite fitting, given the winglets on the back of the new car.

While the Tuatara is a very unique creature, there was a particular property of this reptile that

immediately married it with SSC: It possesses the fastest evolving DNA in the world, and amongst the world’s greatest supercar manufacturers, so does SSC. “We felt that the fastest evolving DNA was a perfect definition of SSC’s latest project,” Shelby says.

Inadulterated

According to Shelby, the design specifications for the next generation SSC were “so extreme; we knew early on that a proper name would be a key piece of the puzzle for this project.”

The SSC Tuatara (pronounced twu-tar-ah) is unadulterated adrenaline created to produce the ultimate driving experience. It is powered by an ultra-high-revving twin turbo V8, and generates 1350 hp at a maximum speed of 275 mph.

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With a compelling purpose, the SSC Tuatara beautifully balances soft, sensual volumes while taking its inspiration from prototype race cars and the innovative spirit of the American aerospace industry.

The teardrop shaped canopy suspended atop the fuselage-like body and vertical stabilizing fins distinctly reflect its fighter jet influence. The use of light weight exotic materials throughout the design are featured externally by the cutting edge technology encompassed in the one-piece carbon fiber wheels by Carbon Revolution. This technology acts as the foundation for strength, beauty and extreme performance of the Tuatara.

The Tuatara debuted in the Middle East during last year’s Dubai International Motor Show. SSC is an American supercar manufacturer and creator of the world record breaking Ultimate Aero.

SPEX 0-60 mph: 2.50 seconds 1/4 mile: 9.75 seconds at 144 mph Top Speed (Projected): Skidpad: 0-100mph-0: 60mph-0 (braking):

Frontal area:

18.0 sq. ft.

With a complete

103 feet

This baby has a horsepower of 1350 bhp @ 6800 rpm and a torque of 1042 ft - lbs @ 6800 rpm. Redline is @ 9200 rpm.

Fuel injection is electronic sequential port.

flat belly pan and rear Venturi tunnels

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276 mph 1.05g 11.25 seconds

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“The design specifications for the next generation SCC were so extreme: we knew early on that a proper name would be a key piece of the puzzle for this project.”

—Jerod Shelby, Founder, Lead Designer, and CEO.

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General data Weight to horsepower ratio Weight distribution F/R Wheel base Length Width Ground clearance

2.0 lbs/hp -- a new production car record Front: 44% Rear: 56% 105.”

174.4” 78.4” 4.0”

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Road Tests On the driver’s seat, we tell you how it is.

We took them for a ride. Here, our take on the new Land Rover 4 and 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser

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LAND

rover 4

RoadTest

Ride

business class The LR4 on the road

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SPEX

195 kph 0-100 kph 7.9 seconds Max 3500 kg Urban L/100 km 19.8 Extra urban 10.7 Engine 5.0 L V8 Petrol

Maximum Speed Acceleration Towing Fuel Economy

The design for the original Land Rover was started in

1947

Maurice Wilks, an automotive and aeronautical engineer designed the first Rover inspired by an American WW II Jeep.

Everything’s set up such that I felt I was on a plane for a bucket list holiday

N

o noise. Everything at the other side of the window mere images passing by in a blink.

Indeed, riding the LR 4 is pretty much like being on a business class flight on a bucket list holiday. The road hump, a very minor “turbulence.” And there’s also a PA of sort—well, that’s how I would call it: You push a button and the car talks to you about directions, phone calls and all.

The phonebook capacity for the LR4 has increased significantly from 700 entries to several thousands, whilst the TFT Message Centre interface has been redesigned to display audio, phone and navigational information.

Beat that Knight rider!

But of course, that’s not all. The 2012 LR4 has a super-advanced 5.0 LR-V8 petrol engine. This sets new benchmarks in V8 engine design because its power, effortless torque and “silken refinement,”

as guys at the garage would call it, established this engine as the one to beat in the premium SUV sector.

Aside from riding an SUV that has won 36 awards in three years since it was introduced to the market, the LR4 also makes for a smooth cruise because it has amenities that make it more fun—a premium Harmon Kardon LOGIC 7 which boasts 17 speakers and 825W of power; a rear seat entertainment available via WhiteFire wireless technology; and, a new 19” and 20” alloy wheel designs.

And there’s more. The Terrain Response System has been improved to further enhance off-road capabilities; Hill Start Assist also makes it a lot easier to move away from standstill on a steep slope, while Gradient Acceleration Control provides driver support even when Hill Descent Control is disengaged.

In other words, this SUV can go anywhere.

Now I give you the nitties: The LR4’s V8 engine produces 375PS and 510Nm torque with low CO2 emissions of 328g/km. One of the secrets of the V8’s efficiency is the centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-guided fuel injection system delivering fuel at a pressure of up to 2175psi (150bar) directly to each cylinder. The injectors are positioned to deliver fuel precisely to the centre of the combustion chamber for maximum air-fuel mixing and accurate combustion 36

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control.

The LR4 has an ultra-refined ZF HP28 6-speed automatic transmission for rapid and refined shiftgears. Its suspension system has been substantially improved with changes to roll centres, anti-rollbars, suspension knuckles, damper bushes and the addition of a variable ratio steering rack for greater stability during high speed cruising and increased sensitivity at acute steering angles.

Furthermore, stronger brakes comprised twinpiston sliding callipers with 360mm ventilated discs at the front and single piston with 350mm ventilated discs at the rear. The understeer control system, which intervenes by automatically slowing the vehicle to bring it back under driver control, was also revised.

Another interesting feature of the LR4 is that it incorporates several other energy saving measures like when at a standstill for instance, the idle speed of the V8 is set at a low 700rpm saving fuel without compromising refinement. An Intelligent Power Management System includes Smart Regenerative Charging, so that whenever possible, the alternator charges the battery when it is most economical to do so, such as when the car is coasting rather than accelerating.

All said, the LR4 makes for my bucket list holiday ride indeed.

Land Rover sold

194,000

vehicles worldwide in

2009

01

02

Land Rover is a British car manufacturer headquartered in Gaydon, Warwickshire UK

Eight Land Rover models have been developed for the UK Ministry of Defence

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2012TOYOTA LAND CRUISER

RoadTest

My ride with the Abu Shanab I’d like to know how the Toyota Land Cruiser came to belong; how it earned the name— that endearment, that respect.

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History The first Land Cruiser was introduced to the market in 1951 as Toyota’s version of a Jeep-like car.

It takes its roots in 1941 when the Japanese Imperial Army ordered Toyota to produce a vehicle similar to the Bantam Mk II seized in Manila during the war.

The SUV is popular in Australia and the Middle East

The Land Cruiser has remained to be the NATO vehicle of choice

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W

ell, I thought the title is cute—the Abu Shanab, “bearded one”: the name Toyota Land Cruiser has earned itself through the years in this part of the world. Where I come from, you don’t make a name overnight just easy; you have to earn it, be respected so that when you walk down the street, people nod at you with approval. That’s how you get in. That’s how you belong. That’s how it’s done.

In this case, I’d like to know how the Toyota Land Cruiser came to belong; how it earned the name—that endearment, that respect. How it came be that people nod with approval whenever they see the Toyota Land Cruiser rolling by.

And so I took the Abu Shanab for a ride—the 2012 Toyota Land Cruiser.

For starters, the car is very stable; the suspension is excellent; the brakes are good; curve handling is perfect; it’s roomy and it gives you a sturdy feel like you’re inside a tank, if you will.

Toyota used innovative technologies in manufacturing the Land Cruiser.

Expansive space and exceptional quality are exclusive features.

The Land Cruiser sets new 4WD standards in cabin comfort.

In the same segment are Range Rover, Land Rover Discovery, Mitsubishi Pajero and Nissan Patrol.

But that’s on the road. I wanted to try the car off-road and see if those big billboards down Sheikh Zayed Road showing the Land Cruiser breezing through a dune at what looked like 45-degree angle on its side really mean what they say. So I went where the streets end and everything becomes the desert, and there started to “punish” the car—excuse the word, it pained my heart too.

But would you believe it? The car can climb with its tires on good traction, no slips.

That figures because you just have to select from five drive modes offered by a dial-type switch for optimum traction when handling slippery surfaces like mud or sand and loose rock, or non-slippery surfaces like moguls and rock. And don’t get me started on the full-time 4WD system and the “Hill-start Assist” Control which automatically applies brake pressure to help hold the vehicle whenever rollback is detected.

I got wicked and sped down to see if it can climb up and not get stuck right after a plunge—it lunged up after the dive ! What’s even nicer was that there was no crunching sound like metal hitting metal, suspension was so good, it held well.

There was no complaining for the Abu Shanab.

And so I thought I’d take it farther up the hill where the road becomes narrow and winding. No worries.

I have the full-time 4WD, the crawl control gear if needed, and a full view of my surroundings as there were four cameras mounted on the front, rear, and sides of the car that enabled the monitor to display six different views of the terrain outside even when cresting a hill or driving on extremely uneven ground that makes it difficult to see the terrain directly.

I wanted to test the much ballyhooed “Turn Assist Function” where one of the rear tyres stop spinning depending on which turn you’re making and the front ones crawl on while you negotiate a tight turn such that your car reduce space needed to make that turn and therefore could squeeze in without you making multiple steering and the annoying reverse and drive. It works. There was this turn that I thought wouldn’t be possible without reversing slightly back then driving forward again. With the TAF while on crawl control I fitted in just fine.

Reaching the hilltop, I parked the Abu Shanab— yes, I’m calling it that as it has just won my respect— and gazed at Dubai’s sunset skyline.

All in a day’s work, my ride with the Abu Shanab has been a fulfilling one, indeed.

Features Multi-terrain ABS uses new control logic that instantly detects offroad conditions.

Vehicle Stability Control detects lateral skidding.

Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System helps keep all tires firmly in contact with the ground.

Multi-terrain Select Mode gives five drive modes by a dial-type switch.

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campus beat

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FJ Cruiser snapshots!

Students from different universities had a chance to ride this hunk of a car which recently starred in campuses to have its picture taken with aspiring drivers.

The photoed students “liked� a Toyota Facebook page, uploaded their pictures on their FB then had their friends vote for them. Highest vote rode the FJ Cruiser.

Here are some snap shots of the event.

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Line Up An independent account on the latest cars

In this issue we present a selection of the latest cars from the different segments: McLaren F1, Touareg Magic Morning, 2012 Ford Focus and Maserati Kubang. Enjoy the ride.

exotic car

What makes a fast car

good?

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SPEX Vehicle Type Super Sport Coupe Base Price $970,000.00 Length 168.9 in. (428 cm) Width 71.7 in. (182 cm) Wheel Base 107 in. (271.8 cm)

How about high power, low weight and a really mean look?

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Height 44.9 in. (114 cm) Curb Weight 2513 lbs (1140 kg) Maximum Seating 2 persons

And wouldn’t that be the McLaren F1?

Y

ou bet!

The Mclaren is the first production car to use carbon fiber monocoque design, which was once the domain of aircraft builders making high-performance, lightweight flying machines.

This means that instead of ensuring overall strength and rigidity using frames, outer panels necessary for creating the vehicle shape are given the minimum necessary reinforcement to ensure strength and rigidity.

This means you have a car designed to fly.

That’s for the F1’s low weight. Now, the high power.

The Mclaren F1 has a BMW-designed 6.0 liter V12 engine that weighs in at 266 kilograms yet generates 627 horsepower. To address issues on heat damaging carbon fiber parts as a result of engine running high on power, McLaren plated the engine compartment with gold foil for insulation such that combined with the frame’s light structure, the power-to-weight ratio of the McLaren F1 is down to 550 horsepower per ton. Some car lovers say that’s amazing.

The McLaren F1 has held bragging rights to

being the world’s fastest car for quite some time now—zero to 62 mph is at 3.2 seconds; zero to 100 miles per hour, 6.3 seconds; top speed is around 248 mph.

But this car is more than just that. The McLaren F1 has likewise set a standard in the motor sport world with its innovative techniques that had been way ahead of its time.

So how did the McLaren F1 came about? A car that has made its stable mark in automotive history and blessed with some of the most impeccable engineering in its time—indeed, a watershed—certainly did not just pop out of the blue.

Ask Gordon Murray, the same guy who designed Formula 1 cars for both Brabham and McLaren and he’ll tell you that the template was quite simple: light, streamlined, and embracing a host of proprietary technologies that took supercar manufacturers eons to match.

The F1 was designed out of the box—unconventionally, that is. Moreover, the ride quality of the car has been improved to get the perfect balance between handling and comfort, as well as performance and usability. So what makes for a good fast car? McLaren F1, hands down!

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On March 31, 1998, the McLaren F1 set the record for the fastest road car in the world, topping at 231 mph (372 km/h) with rev limiter on, and 242.95 mph (391 km/h) with rev limiter removed.

Frontal area:

1.79

square metres

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The overall drag coefficient on the standard McLaren F1 is 0.32,[15] compared with 0.36 for the faster Bugatti Veyron, and 0.357 for the SSC Ultimate Aero TT, which was the fastest production car from 2007 to 2010 Performance Engine Horsepower Max RPM Torque Transmission 0-60 mph Maximum Speed

V12 Mid Engine RWD 627 HP 7400 RPM 479 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm 6-Speed Manual 3.2 seconds 240 mph (386 km/h)

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motor sport

Team Qadi Ford Focus

Ten-day pan-GCC motoring challenge started 52

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roon tops Rabaa Rally

The winning team with Host Dany Neville and Ford Middle East’s Paul Anderson (Extreme right).

in Riyadh and finished at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa carxpressmag.com

53

‘Through this unique event, the all-new 2012 Ford Focus proved that it can deliver a reliable and dynamic performance.’

– Paul Anderson, Ford Middle East.

A

sk the boys from Oman.

Oman’s Team Qadiroon led by Nabil Al Busaidi won the Ford Focus Rabaa inter-GCC Rally challenge, topping the score board against five other groups as the motoring challenge culminated at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa finish line.

Al-Yaqdan Alhooti, an avid supporter who scored the most points in the online challenges also won in the “Pit Crew” or Ford Focus Rabaa Fan category. All winning team members as well as Al-Yaqdan Alhooti will receive a brand new

2012 Ford Focus model for prize.

Scoring 395 points, Team Qadiroon emerged on top of the leader board, beating the scores of the other teams. With earnest support from fans, Team Qadiroon garnered crucial points to help seal its position on the number one spot.

In second place came Team I.C.T. from Qatar with a score of 360 points, closely followed

by Team Bahrain Youth Lions in third place with 350 points, and Team Bura Bura with a score of 235.

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The Ford Focus Rabaa [referring to a gang of friends in Khaleeji dialect] took teams through each of the Gulf states to compete in a series of tasks and challenges while driving across the countries.

The teams were scored based on their skills and performance rather than speed. The level of online and offline participation and support of their country’s fans also played an important role in the scoring as fans were able to take online challenges to help their team get more points.

Ford Focus is a compact car that has been in production since 1998.

In Europe, South America, North America and South Africa, the Focus replaced the various Ford Escorts sold in those markets Renowned DJ, music producer and radio presenter Dany Neville followed the progress of each team from one Gulf state to the other as the rally’s host. Online fans were able to follow the updates live as each day a new episode recapping the challenges was produced and posted on the Ford Middle East Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ FordMiddleEast).

The event was held to launch the 2012 Ford Focus—a first of such held in the region.

Paul Anderson, Ford Middle East’s Marketing director said the challenge “proved that the 2012 Ford Focus can deliver a reliable and dynamic performance, while demonstrating its tremendous abilities and unique technologies that truly stand out in the compact car segment.”

The rally saga was witnessed by thousands of Ford Middle East’s Facebook fans via daily video

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Team captains Team Bahrain: Ismaeel Abdulatif, Football Striker and Winger, Al Muharraq Club Team Kuwait: Barakat Al Wegyan, TV presenter, Al Watan TV Team Oman: Nabil Al Busaidi, Arab Adventurer Team Qatar: Abdul Aziz Hasan, Vice President – Qatar Football Association Team Saudi Arabia: Khalid Khalifa, comedian Team United Arab Emirates: Anas Bukhash, CEO and Managing Partner – Ahdaaf Sports Club.

The 2012 Ford Focus cars used in the event.

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updates posted on its page at the social networking site.

Six Ford Focuses, each manned by a fourmember team, motored through a 4,000-kilometer route across GCC that started late April at the Reem International Circuit in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and finished at Dubai’s Burj Khalifa Tower in 10 days for what was indeed a very unique launch pushing the new car to its limits and beyond.

Andersen said Ford have had great feedback from audiences when it first launched similar challenges in other global markets.

Race beginnings The first Focus World Rally Car made its debut in rallying at the World Rally Championship on the 1999 Monte Carlo Rally.

The Ford Focus Rabaa inter-GCC Rally Tour was the first ever pan-GCC challenge of its kind.

Stylish and well-made interior is Ford Focus

Team leaders during the Focus Rabaa Rally’s announcement a few weeks before the event.

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SUVs

Meet the Dakar Touareg

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A name change, some tweaking, and voila! Race car becomes limited edition street-legal at US$2 million

M

agic Morning, unveiled at the recent Second Qatar International Motor Show, has more to it than meets the eye—definitely.

Apparently buoyed by the success of the Volkswagen Race Touareg TDI at the 2009 Dakar Rally, the German automobile manufacturer, which made history winning at the race event in the dieselpowered class, has come up with a street-legal version following much craving from the big boys wanting new toys.

With a starting price of US$2 million—company stock—Karsten Jankowski, Volkswagen Middle East marketing director, told Car Xpress back at the Doha motor show that a very limited edition of Magic Morning will be made, around 20 units, he said.

Custom-made

“Magic Morning is custom-made. It was based on the Touareg that went to the Dakar Rally,” Jankowski said. “It costs around 1.5 million euros for just the basics.”

Jankowski said that with a limited number of Magic Morning out, services will have to be individualized thus, he said, “flying doctors,” a team of engineers actually, will be sent to the country where the owner stays with the car for needed regular checks and maintenance.

Two of the fiveVolkswagen Race Touareg TDIs that ran in the Dakar Rally took top overall positions in the two marathons. The truck driven Giniel de Villiers and Dirk von Zitzewitz led to the finish capturing the first ever overall win for a diesel powered vehicle in the race.

The Race Touaregs were powered by 2.5L fivecylinder diesel engine basically half of V10 TDI formerly used in the production Touareg. In race trim this engine produces 280 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque.

The race event was held in South America covering a 9,000 km route from Buenos Aires, Argentina to the Pacific Coast in Chile and back again.

Volkswagen made motorsport history by winning the 2009 Dakar Rally with its clean diesel powered Race Touareg TDI’s.

Slightly tamer

Magic Morning is a slightly tamer version of the Race Touareg; the 228 kW/310 PS Volkswagen could very well be the world’s most talented streetlegal SUV. The Touareg Magic Morning, safe to say,

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was built to withstand the toughest rally race in the world.

The version that is legally approved for use on public roadways can sprint to 100 km/h in less than six seconds. The body, which is just about two metres wide, was slightly modified for road use. Instead of 16-inch wheels, new 18-inch wheels from BBS with a gold look are used here. The Race Touareg signature—also in a golden colour—covers the entire length of the vehicle’s sides.

Safety cage

This signature is perfectly coordinated with its

Magic Morning exterior paint, a white that has a slight gold shimmer to it. The interior was completely redesigned; all that remained unmodified was the safety cage. Uncompromising also means that the interior offers easy controls and is ergonomic.

The interior has an extremely well-organised appearance with a focus on the driving machine, and is equipped with Recaro racing bucket seats. Designers created an interior in so-called “Stealth look” reminiscent of the aircraft of the same name.

In tribute to the Dakar Rally, the Dakar victories are etched in the anodised aluminium of the centre console next to the Race Touareg signature.

Other trim elements are treated in Matte Carbon. Tuned to this is the roll cage in Serpentino Grey Metallic. Interior designers have upholstered the seat side supports and the door trim panels with Nubuk leather in Black and Pure Grey, while the centre seat panels are made from perforated Nappa leather in Titan Black.

Additional accents include the two-tone seams and silver piping on the seat covers and safety-relevant components painted in Tornado Red. The only other ingredient needed is some time to explore the world on a 360 degree route in this uncompromising car.

Interior was made with a ‘Stealth look’ reminiscent of the aircraft of the same name.

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Touareg Magic Morning is a slightly tamed Race Touareg

3

Tuaregs

The are nomadic people dwellers of sub-Saharan Africa.

There are many Tuaregs who live in modern cities of Mali, Niger and Algeria.

Touareg was named after

The them.

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Maserati Goes SUV with Kubang

They’re not just pulling your leg At a time when few other brands were going in the direction of a sport luxury SUV, Maserati was already thinking to build one.

V

oila! A new Maserati vehicle in the sport luxury SUV segment.

The car represents a natural direction for Maserati to enlarge its product range and strengthen its presence in the sport luxury market.

For some reason SUVs never seem to offer the kind of uplifting driving pleasure and luxury atmosphere that should be staples of today’s high-end sports and luxury cars. Filling this gap, Maserati set out with its new sport luxury SUV concept.

The Kubang, which was revealed in the Middle East for the first time during last year’s Dubai International Motor Show, is forerunner of the future Maserati range, creating at once discontinuity by entering a new segment, and continuity by maintaining the integrity of Maserati’s DNA. The idea of a sport luxury SUV is naturally not totally new to Maserati. Many will remember the Kubang concept that was unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003. At a time in which few other brands were going in the direction of a sport luxury

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This crossover SUV concept was officially presented at the 2011 Frankfurt car show.

Ferrari and Chrysler will be producing the engines.

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Officials said 2013 model year production will be at Chrysler’s Jefferson North Assembly in Detroit.

SUV, Maserati was already thinking to build one.

Today potential synergies with sister brand Jeep - a brand that 70 years ago created a new segment of the market and is today a leader of this very segment – are the important catalyst for Maserati’s own interpretation of a sport luxury SUV.

Essence

The essence and all major system components of the Maserati sport luxury SUV are unmistakably Maserati: style, engine, suspensions, brakes, handling and performance in picture-perfect continuity with the brand’s core values of sportiness, style, elegance, luxury, performance and craftsmanship.

The distinctive Maserati style that makes the Kubang immediately recognizable as a true Maserati has been created by the Maserati Style Center headed by Lorenzo Ramaciotti.

An AT 8 speed automatic transmission and specific performance settings such as suspensions, brakes, steering will be exclusively developed in Modena for the Maserati sport luxury SUV by the Maserati Product Development Department.

Until today Maserati has been producing sedans, coupes and two- or four-seater convertibles.

Whether named Quattroporte, GranTurismo or GranCabrio—or, before them, Ghibli, Mistral, Bora or Indy—their common denominator rested in two words: sportiness and luxury. Times have changed: sportiness and luxury today don’t have just one definition. They can also take the form of a very dynamic looking and high performing sport luxury SUV.

In 2003, Maserati had presented a concept car called Maserati Kubang.

Automobile pundits describe this car as “a Detroit-built Jeep Grand Cherokee with Maserati skin and cockpit — and a Ferrari-based engine under the hood.”

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BMW Vision ConnectedDrive

concept car

Star of Mission Impossible 4 66

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The design and technology of this spectacular car are aimed at making the vehicle an integral part of a networked world.

B

MW has pulled the wraps off of its latest concept vehicle, which is in part a research tool for the automaker as it looks towards the future of mobile networking. The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is a twopassenger roadster seeking to push new boundaries in the realm of automotive technology.

The topless concept borrows much of its design from the Vision EfficientDynamics concept that’s on the road to production, but this showcar focuses on three areas; comfort, safety and infotainment. Each category provides feedback and data to the driver by means of a light display spread throughout the vehicle.

Augmented reality

In the cabin, the driver will be able to monitor a multitude of information thanks to a threedimensional head-up display. The HUD incorporates augmented reality to display point-of-interest icons and road information into the driver’s field of vision.

The display is fully customizable, and the driver can fine-tune the amount of information and how it’s displayed in front of him or her. Interestingly enough, BMW has provided no information about what powers this concept – either in reality or merely conceptually.

The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive Concept is the automaker’s view of where automotive information technology is heading. By providing the driver with as much or as little information as he or she desires, the driver is able to make a closer connection with the vehicle. It may be merely a study at this point, but it’s a glimpse at a future where the driver is still in control... and that’s something we can stand behind.

A multitude of unique new developments in the fields of drive systems and intelligent networking of the driver, the vehicle and the environment was presented by BMW to the public at the Geneva Mo-

The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive study demonstrates current and future methods of mobile networking in a particularly focused way.

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tor Show, March 3 – 13, 2011; all of these contributing to a steady, continuous increase in both vehicle efficiency and driving pleasure.

The leading position in the automobile world occupied

by BMW in the development of innovative driver assistance systems and mobility services was furthered strengthened at the 2011 Motor Show by the world premiere of an extraordinary concept vehicle: The BMW Vision ConnectedDrive study demonstrates current and future methods of mobile networking in a particularly focused way. The design and technology of this spectacular roadster are aimed at making the vehicle an integral part of a networked world. Comfort, safety and the infotainment experience in the vehicle can be precisely optimised by the innovative functionality, individually tailored to suit the requirements of both the driver and passenger. New technologies and design concepts are employed to add even more facets to the unmistakable BMW driving pleasure.

Front and rear lighting monitor the surrounding traffic conditions.

Distinctive BMW presents new aspects of its distinctive driving pleasure to the motoring public with the development of concepts for electromobility. In the framework of BMW EfficientDynamics, the purely electric drive has adopted a key role on the road to CO2-free mobility. For the first time, electromobility styled by BMW is on the verge of becoming available to everyone for day-to-day use.

BMW has also extended its lead in the field of conventionally-powered production vehicles, with the introduction of efficiency-raising technologies.

At the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Touring Edition was presented to the public for the first time. Its four-cylinder diesel engine develops a maximum output of 120 kW/163 bhp and yet consumes only an average of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the EU test cycle (CO2: 114 g/km). In the mid-range premium segment, the BMW 320d EfficientDynamics Touring Edition,

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together with the similarly configured sedan, provide by far the best combination of driving pleasure and economy.

Furthermore, the Geneva Motor Show was also the setting for the world premiere of the new BMW X1 xDrive28i and thus for a new generation of 2.0-litre petrol engines. For the first time in a fourcylinder engine, the drive unit is fitted with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology with a turbocharging system based upon the Twin Scroll principle together with High Precision Injection and the VALVETRONIC fully-variable valve control system. The result convincingly meets the objectives of BMW EfficientDynamics - more driving pleasure at significantly lower consumption and CO2 emissions.

Won’t happen Word on the street is that BMW has no plan to mass-produce this car.

The interior is very driverfocused with a high centre console.

Designer Adrian van Hooydonk refers to the exterior as a ‘layered surface’.

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Philosophy BMW ConnectedDrive is the integration of the vehicle, driver and environment in an intelligent network.

Short distances are bridged by ultrasound while mobile radio technology is use for the larger once.

The driver’s seat has a 3D head-up display screen which shows actual satellite navigational information on to the view in front.

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2Ways READERS’ SUGGESTIONS & COMMENTS. LET’S TALK ABOUT IT.

SEND YOUR THOUGHTS, COMMENTS & FEEDBACK TO THE FOLLOWING E-MAIL: EDITOR@CARXPRESS-MAG.COM

A Bentley from heaven

In trance

Dear editor, You hit the mark on your coverage of last year’s Dubai International Motor Show, particularly on your piece about the Bugatti Grand Sport that went in your Cover Story section of your March 2012 edition.

I was there and saw the Bugatti stand. Indeed, people seemed to be in euphoric trance taking their pictures next to the lovely cars and walking around almost aimlessly as they viewed from the digicams how their pictures went.

Who wouldn’t be? You only see these babies in the movies—or, in Dubai’s case, Sheikh Zayed Road!!

There were three Bugattis that went on display.

Were there takers?

Jennifer Perque Doha, Qatar

Cover S tory awesome read.

T

he Bugat ti Veyro fastest, n 16.4 most power Grand Sport, the top car in the worldful and exclus their vehicl Show intoconcluded Duba , turned the ive open choosing es to their perso that saw a face-to-face i Internationa recentlynal prefer and colou from a broad l Moto -close car lovers ences array of r trance, walking -encounters exquisite by growing rs. The three having event aimlessly mode big number materials on their in a seemi and new of optio ls displayed faces followglows in their an ever Grand ns availa babies ing photo eyes and smilesng that cast Sport ble to existin Bugatti flashes a spell Autom owners. launched on Three g with these on them.

Grand obiles the car was Sport to Veyron very special mode In Japan after 150 units S.A.S. has limite sold and 16.4 Grand ls totalled 10,943 105 show.

Sport wentof the Bugatti has a price slots are still of which 45 haved theJune 9th 2010, orders It was ng on displa boys cravin Bugatti’s intent way surpassi million) range of 1.58 open. The cars, been first month y at the g ion new to 1.74 million ity and to provid whichunits in the toys an of 1,300. will be inspir euros million manu euros (US$ (US$2.12 Nissan’s monthly target individualis ation can insight into how e by the Molsheim, factured at be succes creatived the Bugat 2.34 millio sfully driven France.

In coope luxury. n) ti factor The first to engineering ration with y in Grand Motor the Bugat Sport teams, Show ti design Bugatti bright yellow has a horizo on display at custom and Duba ntal ers can i colou black carbo body and tailor an under r split with n, includ striking ing black- side in visible a contrast tinted wheel ti’s favori of black te and yellow s. The in yellow colours, is contin , Ettore -colored Bugat ued by middle seats finish console leather with black ed is board, stitch steering in black carbo wheel and n, while ing. The the dashgearshift are encas ed in

LEGEN DARY

Grand Sport

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Junior’s getting popular

and sporting of SUV toughness masculinity combination to inject some East has announced style. Conceived car market, Juke baby issan Middle into the small ions the Nissan Juke, and dynamism of seeming contradict the launch of and Murano. combines a numberindividual lines. brother to Qashqai market bored to shake up the beneath its highly Aimed at a younger combines atJuke is about fun “The Nissan and sense of hatchbacks, Juke with a boldness, style Juke’s with look-alike , modish style and energy market with before. We believe titude, irreverence of fun. it has never seen motorsports-inspired that s sense on of to the levels a mischievou unique combinati design and unexpected a sense of adventure reactive: interior “Juke brings urban, JUKE into the exterior and It light, nimble, going to force is / audience. car market. It’s younger hatchback of technology to grab a g compact SUV qualities designed to the traditional heart of the fast-growin entirely new Celine Barthes, market,” said offers something and cements Nissan’s reputaMiddle East. dif- crossover Brand Manager at Nissan B-segment vehicles prepared to do something lower pormaker Product Crossover a design standpoint, the tion as a car From combines chunky Loing, Vice President, India and pure SUV. It ferent,” said Pierre clearance Middle East, tion of Juke is ground Africa, tyres, extended is Planning, Nissan wheels, wide top portion that and stance with a Europe (AMI-E). waistline, is about to change, and a robust car, with a high coupéthe newest sports The urban landscape ted Juke, a and unadultera thanks to Nissan. has arrived, side glass graphics is further once again, it’s slim visor-like Crossover family, The coupé effect their member of Nissan’s complacency into touch. style falling roofline. which have to kick market has the rear doors and it’s ready underlined by of the door. the small hatchbackmachines. in the frame with For too long dull handles hidden by worthy but car theme continues been populated about to change.

Inside, the sports dominated by a centre arrived, that’s cabin and folNow Juke has a cockpit oriented motorcycle fuel first small Crossover, inspired by a Juke is the world’s tracks of Murano – the world’s console design high gloss colour Qashqai. in a distinctive adds a lows in the wheel successful Finished console ultra tank. ‘bike’ – and the of or grey – the place as King first Crossover is assured by – metallic red cement Nissan’s the car. Practicality luggage area Together they sense of fun to versatile . ng hatch and the Crossovers ties. the rear-openi storage opportuni with hidden Distinctive Juke is a distinctive brothers, Like its bigger

At the recent Intern Dubai ati Show, onal Motor the ico French nic presen brand special ted 3 very this ca models of r.

Bugat ti

Dear Mr. Khali Events organizers think of everything, you know. And they made sure they got this one pretty much covered from all angles, so to speak.

Editor

Dear editor.

I happened upon your March 2012 edition and saw a feature about Nissan Juke, which was launched in Dubai several months ago last year.

I agree. The Juke is for the young urban professional, the preppy type oozing with aesthetics and form.

N I have noticed seeing more and more of this crossover down Sheikh Zayed Road.

Junior’s getting popular eh?

Dear Ms. Perque Thanks for your letter. The word we got was that all three were sold.

Editor A speci al choic e for an

Dear editor I’m a Bentley guy—head to toe. And your news report about a recent spectacular Bentley launch in Munich where the car was suspended beneath a helicopter and flown to the venue of the event really made my day.

I would have loved seeing it in person—a Bentley from heaven.

Mark Khali Beirut, Lebanon

black leathe r with yellow model comes stitching.

This Grand The secon at 1.58 millio Sport also presen d individualiz n euros. ed Grand consisting ted in a two-t one horizo Sport mode anodised of visible blue l carbon, ntal colour split is aluminiumaluminium. The framed in polish rims polished finish. and Diam are highlighted ed, The ond in in alumi grills at the front and Cut two-tone an nium with of this the air a mirro car intakes are out. Only is finished with r shine finish . The interi tange the door rine wheel and or panels, leather console dashboard, throughleather are covere or d in dark steering stitching exposed blue blue carbo on Indigo n fibre, This specia the steerin with g wheel l editio and gearsh tangerine euros. n mode l has a price of ift knob.

The third 1.74 millio Grand developed n Sport come minium. green carbon s in the fibre newly Bugatti This special mode tone with polished two-tone-s l takes rearview aluup mirrors pecification. The the traditional of polish and even ed the EB-lo rims, the exteri monious aluminium or go at to and tastefuoverall appearancecreate an elegan the rear are . The interi t and harand silver lly selected, or, especi which match is also domi ally es perfec nated in green tly with the

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Do you have something worth featuring?

A Car, your Story or a Collection?

CAR XPRESS WELCOMES YOU. 72

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Miranda Cummings Dubai, UAE Dear Ms. Cummings As we mentioned in the report, Nissan surpassed its monthly production target in Japan by almost ten fold after the car was launched, which speaks about how this car hit the road on such phenomenal proportion.

Editor

New look

Dear editor I noticed that Car Xpress has started sporting a new look. That’s great. There are more contents this time and the page designs are more pleasing.

Kudos Mohammed Hassan Doha, Qatar Dear Mr. Hassan It’s a continuing work in progress. Thanks.

Editor

Who wouldn’t be? You only see these babies in the movies—or, in Dubai’s case, on Sheikh Zayed Road!!

vintage

MINI From a barebone workingman’s fixture to stardom

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A

s they say, a bad thing is not really that bad after all.

1956 saw the crisis in Suez Canal worsening as the United Kingdom and the United States withdrew their pledge to support the construction of one of the components due to Egypt’s alleged siding with the Soviet Union. This led to war and threatened world crude oil supply.

This also led to MINI’s birth.

At the time, the United Kingdom’s oil supplies were reduced and fuel rationing was imposed. Sales of large cars with high fuel consumption plummeted and the British public turned to more economical alternatives.

Lots of space inside with minimum dimensions outside, seats for four passengers, impeccable driving characteristics, superior fuel economy at a very affordable price – that was precisely the brief the creator of the Mini, engineer and designer Sir Alec Issigonis, received from top management at the British Motor Corporation (BMC).

Issigonis was the genius behind Morris Mini Minor and the obvious choice to build a fuel-efficient, four-passenger car that would take up minimal space. His design was nothing short of revolutionary. With an 848cc engine mounted sideways to save space, tiny 10-inch wheels and seatbelts and wing mirrors as optional extras, this was motoring pared to the bone.

Right from its start in 1959, Mini met all the requirements of its time. Measuring just 3.05 metres in length and selling at a retail price of UK£ 496, it was simply perfect for small parking spaces and low budgets.

A star is born However, the Mini wasn’t an instant hit.

Although sales were strong, they were not as high as the BMC anticipated. Sir Alec Issigonis decided to give a Mini to Lord Snowdon, a close friend and husband of Princess Margaret who was well known with the in-crowd in London. So, it wasn’t until the

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Queen and hip stars such as Mick Jagger, Britt Ekland, Twiggy and of course The Beetles—were seen driving this baby car did it become a sensation.

With its mass market appeal and celebrity pull factor, the Mini soon became the perfect fashion accessory and has even been credited with inspiring the iconic 1960s fashion item - the Mini skirt.

Hencethe MINI became arguably one of the most loved and unique cars in the history of motoring. A small car in size but big on space, design and personality, MINI became classless, ageless and cheeky.

Design and performance Design definitely played a major part in the Mini becoming an object and subject of obsession for so many creative types. New interpretations of the classic Mini shape evolved quickly in the two years following its debut. During this time, the Mini Van, Mini Estate, Mini Pick-Up, Wolseley Hornet and the Riley Elf were all introduced.

In 1959, a star was born measuring 3.05 metres in length with an 848cc engine mounted sideways to save space, tiny 10-inch wheels and seatbelts and wing mirrors as optional extras.

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Kate Moss’s Mini

Mini hits the streets in London

2001

In , the BMW Group relaunched the classic Mini

Mini production line

A very special variant destined more than any other to create the legend of the classic Mini made its appearance in the second half of 1961 in the shape of the Mini Cooper. John Cooper, the mastermind behind the design, was a close friend and business partner of Issagonis. He recognised that this ingenious concept for an economical compact car also provided the ideal canvass for a sports car.

He set to work tuning the road car for motorsport performance.

When it finally launched in 1961, the response to the Mini Cooper was quite simply euphoric. It went on to win three overall Monte Carlo races by 1967 and even became a film star within its own right. Let’s not forget Mini Cooper’s leading role in what is arguably one of the most famous car chase movie scenes of all time, The Italian Job (1969) star-

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ring Michael Caine.

1964 was another eventful year for the Mini, with the arrival of the Mini Moke, a four-seater four-wheel-drive originally conceived for military use. The Mini Moke went on to become very popular in the sun starved locations of the USA and Australia.

The Mini now, was not just a city slicker; it was a multi faceted brand with cars for all terrains and speeds.

In 1969 the Mini Clubman Estate was introduced. It measured 11cm more than the original model and is one of the models from where the DNA for Mini’s modern day successor comes from.

Numerous special versions of the classic Mini with all kinds of highlights – from sporty to trendy, from distinguished to fresh – entered the market during the 1970s. By 1983, the range was updated and streamlined, when the Clubman, Estate and Van left production. Customers of the Mini Classic remained faithful and in 1986, Mini produced its fifth millionth car - a milestone in its career.

Mini continued with various versions of the Cooper and a Convertible (1993) until production of the classic Mini finally ceased in the year 2000. In the course of its time, more than 5.3 million units left the production plants in the UK, making it the world’s most successful compact car.

But even after 41 years, there was still a long way to go. After a break of not quite one year, a new

2009 Vs 1967 George Harrison Mini

From 1959, when it was first introduced to the market, until 2000, when production stopped, 5.3 million Minis left production plants.

Special Edition MINI 50 Mayfair MINI & 50 Camden

chapter in the history of this British legend opened up when in 2001 the BMW Group re-launched the classic Mini.

BMW set out to modernise the British classic and bring it back into the forefront of design and innovation. The new MINI which was launched under the BMW brand in 2001 was an instant hit.

Meeting modern requirements in terms of interior space, the design of the new model clearly retained the original proportions, as well as the unmistakable design icons at the front, rear and side. This ensured an instantly recognisable link between the ‘new MINI’ and its classical predecessors.

Second generation The brand went from strength to strength and in 2006 BMW launched second generation MINI Cooper and Cooper S models with even more powerful and efficient engines, and enhanced suspension technology. The wheel came full circle in 2007 when MINI took a bold decision and decided to extend the product range with the MINI Clubman.

Even as MINI turns 50, it just keeps getting better with age; continuing to reinvent itself

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through innovative interpretations of its iconic design philosophy. Now MINI can boast three models in the line up; The Hatch, Cabrio and Clubman all available in Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works editions.

Today, the original brief from the BMC is more relevant than ever as MINI goes back to its roots with the launch of two special editions to commemorate this special birthday. The MINI Mayfair looks back proudly on half a century of motoring history with classic elegant style, while the MINI Camden looks forward to eagerly to the next 50 years in a contemporary colourful creative way.

Both models will arrive in the Middle East market in November 2009.

Madonna MINI 2009

50

As it turned , the Mini just kept getting better with age.

The Mini of the stars

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Our Guest A one-on-one interview with key industry players

Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributors of Toyota in the UAE, recently launched the new 2012 Land Cruiser in the UAE.

So, how is the Abu Shanab doing?

‘In the last five to six years, the market share…improved dramatically. We now have some 63 percent.’

–Mr. Simon Frith, managing director of Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributors of Toyota in UAE. Car Xpress: Some people say Land Cruiser has become part of the Arabian tradition, a household name even. Your comments please.

Frith: It’s true. It is a tradition. It’s even got its own name Abu Shanab, to mean the bearded one in Arabic. It’s got a tremendous affinity with the nation. It’s an enduring relationship. I have never seen, frankly, anything like it in my life. We are very proud to have that relationship and we just want to keep it that way.

The following is excerpt of a Car Xpress interview with Mr. Simon Frith, managing director of AlFuttaim Motors, exclusive distributors of Toyota in UAE. Car Xpress: How excited are you about the 2012 Land Cruiser?

Mr. Simon Frith: Tremendously! I mean the Land Cruiser is an iconic car. It has a tremendous heritage in UAE. First to arrive in 1955 with the 20 series and it has progressed to the 2012 model.

We think it’s an incredible car. Horsepower is up 13 percent; torque is up 7 percent*; it has a different exterior styling and an all-new interior. So we think it is a tremendous proposition and, yes we are really excited.

Car Xpress: What do you see as far as market response is concerned?

Frith: Over the last five to six years, the market share of the segment has improved dramatically. We are now some 63 percent of the segment, and for

me, I never take that for granted. It’s a great place to start from and when you got a quality vehicle, an iconic vehicle with the improvements we have put in 2012, we are tremendously optimistic for the future.

IN BRIEF

2012

Among highlights of the Land Cruiser’s features is the newly introduced Turn Assist, which works in conjunction with the Crawl Control function, in addition to the new mode Multi-terrain select (MTS). The all new Turn Assist System enhances turning ability and minimizes the driver’s effort in tight U-turns where K-turns are necessary, by applying the brake on the inside rear wheel. The monitor is used in conjunction to help drivers observe their surrounds through front, side and rear cameras.

The Multi-terrain Monitor consisting of cameras (Front; rear; right side; left side) captures peripheral images and displays them on the Electro Multi Vision (EMV) along with warning messages.

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Car Xpress: That said, how do you think will the market react to other SUVs? Frith: I can’t say how they will react to other four-wheel drive competitors but what I can say is that on that vehicle (2012 Land Cruiser), the technology and the performance are fascinating in many areas—the turn assist, for instance, we are first in this area of the articulation of the wheels. In terms of the power, we’ve increased it 13 percent. I can’t comment on what the people would think about our competitors but we are really trying hard to move this vehicle on and take nothing for granted even with 63 percent share of the market. *For the Land Cruiser 4.6 L.