A Unique Coverage for a Unique Readership by Shaza Sharaffdeen

BMW M5

VW Tiguan

Special Guest

AGMC’s Kevin Hughes talks about BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé

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Road Test

Volume 8 . Issue 71 . November 2012

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Line Up

Audi R8 GT Spyder McLaren 12C Spider Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Audi Q3

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Toyota 86

It took six years to develop this ‘drifting lightning.’

TAKE US ON A BORING JOURNEY, BECAUSE WE’VE NEVER BEEN ON ONE. Nissan Patrol gives your family the freedom to watch their favourite movies on individual screens with the Multi-screen DVD Entertainment System. As for you, the Music Box stores all the songs you need to keep you going. Experience all the classleading features with a test drive at your nearest Nissan showroom.

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• 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

Nissanpatrol-me.com • 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

WHY CUT CORNERS WHEN YOU CAN DRIFT THROUGH THEM?

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The new V12 Zagato Brutally elegant!

The provocative Reventon Inspired by the fastest airplanes

Cadillac XTS Platinum Re-imagining the luxury sedan

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

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Volume 7 . Issue 67 . November 2011

n this edition, Car Xpress tells you the inside on Grammy awardwinner rap artist Krayzie Bone’s recent trip to Dubai and how ended up with a US$200,000 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante. Saquib Abdul down at Exotic Cars must have had cringes down his goosebumps when it happened—a group of what he thought was wannabe rap stars checking out the shop’s showroom. “I didn’t know who he was,” Abdul told Car Xpress in tone somewhat perplexed. This edition’s Lube Bay Special has it all, including a closer look into the car and why Krayzie Bone chose it. In other sections, Car Xpress was told the Toyota 86, which just recently launched in Dubai, took approximately six years to develop. Tetsuya Tada, Toyota chief engineer who was behind the project from conception to production explains why in our Cover Story about this phenomenon called “drifting lightning.” They say Rolls-Royce is a class of its own such that it doesn’t compare to another luxury car rather to other icons of the good life like a yacht, a private jet, a mansion. In our Luxury Car section, we show you why they think so. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé has launched. We did a one-on-one interview with Kevin Hughes, general manager of AGMC, importer of BMW and Mini in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, who spilled the beans on some interesting things about the new car. Check it out. Sublime comfort means hearing the unhindered howl of a V8 twin turbo engine at full throttle as the car roof retracts, which is what McLaren Automotive’s newly unveiled 12C Spider is all about. Car Xpress tells more in High Performance section. The 12C is McLaren Automotive’s debut model, drawn on the company’s long-standing Formula 1 experience in its concept and development. The 12C is lighter, faster, more powerful, more fuel efficient and more exclusive than its key competition.

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Road Tests

Our Guest

Toyota 86

On the driver’s seat, we tell you how it is BMW M5 VW Tiguan

AGMC’s Kevin Hughes talks about BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé carxpressmag.com

BMW M5

VW Tiguan

Special Guest

AGMC’s Kevin Hughes talks about BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé

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CONTENTS

Road Test

Volume 8 . Issue 70 . June 2012

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Line Up

Audi R8 GT Spyder McLaren 12C Spider Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II Audi Q3

ALL THE

Updates

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

10 Updates

Riyadh Motor Show 2012

Now, multi-tasking at work is easier

On its 29th edition, the five-day event is seen to serve as a platform from where the government’s plan to turn KSA into a regional automotive powerhouse will take off. P18

Xperia sola, Sony Mobile Communications’ latest addition to its portfolio of Androidpowered Xperia smartphones is now in the Middle East. P19

Toyota 86

BMW X6M in the works

Rolls-Royce appoints new design director Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced that Giles Taylor has been appointed Design Director with effect from 1 July 2012 and will report to Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design. Taylor replaces Ian Cameron, who retires from the role he has held since 1999. After his design studies in the United Kingdom, Taylor initially gathered experience in several international design roles. The 44 year-old Briton spent 10 years as an executive designer in the British car industry, acting as head of design for two model series at Jaguar. He joined the Rolls-Royce design team in April 2011 as Head of Exterior Design. Ian Cameron joined the BMW Group in 1992 and held leading design roles for several models, including the 3 Series model range, the Z8 and the Range Rover. In 1999 he was appointed to lead the new Rolls Royce design team, resulting in the launch of Phantom in 2003 and all subsequent Phantom and Ghost family models. Whilst Cameron retires from his design role he will remain within the BMW Group until the onset of his retirement age in April 2013, dedicating his time to Rolls-Royce global heritage matters as Brand Ambassador within BMW Group Classic led by Karl Baumer.

With the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé having just been launched, BMW M GmbH, the specialists for high-performance sports cars, is looking at adding an even greater performance and will be introducing the BMW X6M, the company said. Powered by a V8 engine, the new BMW X6M delivers 555 hp and also benefits from detailed refinements in the area of design and equipment. The BMW X6 M is fitted with a 6-speed M Sport automatic transmission, also highlighting its individual status with such features as separately developed suspension technology. Meantime, the BMW X6 Sports Activity Coupé defined a new market segment when it was launched in 2008, and has now been upgraded with the new model arriving in the Middle East this June.

More than

repositioned fog lights, new Adaptive LED headlights and revised red light cluster on the rear lights. With its newly designed rear lights with LED technology, the powerfully shaped rear section of the new BMW X6 also features more intense styling.

Spicebomb

An explosion of the senses Instant olfactory detonation. Viktor&Rolf is once again overturning convention and revealing a fragrance that makes no concessions. An explosive concentrate of masculine sensuality. Spicebomb. Surprising at first breath, addictive from the very next second... Spicebomb finds the perfect balance between strength and elegance, intensity and subtlety. Driven by a distinctively singular olfactory signature, it leaves its mark like a new surge of energy and style. A cocktail of virility, crafted with refinement by Viktor&Rolf. Powerful, daring, sensual. Spicebomb reveals masculinity from every angle.

26 Lube Bay Special Bentley’s fastest production car ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe which has just recently been released, hits 205 mph (329kph) and is expected to appeal to car lovers who prefer substance than form—indeed a new toy for the big boy! The new Continental GT Speed lives on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and sporting luxury. At the heart of this new car is an uprated version of the unique Bentley 6-litre, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new model, the legendary Bentley W12 develops 625 PS (616 bhp/460 kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm of torque to deliver thunderous, supercar performance with effortless overtaking capability. The new Speed’s immense power is transmitted via a close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This state-of-the-art transmission delivers quick yet imperceptible gear changes through intelligent

adaptive control software to ensure the perfect combination of speed and refinement. The new gearbox also makes a significant contribution to an overall twelve per cent improvement in fuel economy and CO2 emissions. Channelling the extreme performance of the GT Speed is a unique chassis tune that includes uprated steering and suspension systems and a lowered ride height. The enhanced chassis is complemented by unique 21-inch Speed wheels, available in two lustrous finishes, and fitted with 275 35 R21 Pirelli PZero ultra-high performance tyres. The result is a sportier and more engaging Bentley driving experience with tauter handling and improved agility. The muscular, elegant sculpted coachwork of the Continental coupe is subtly

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This vehicle was announced as a concept car in 2006.

2012TOYOTA LAND CRUISER

So,why was Krayzie Bone in Dubai?

The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in a mere 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2s) and the GT Speed has a top speed of 205 mph (329 km/h).

Meet Bentley’s fastest ever

RoadTest

It took six years to develop this ‘drifting lightning.’

150,000 X6 vehicles have been sold worldwide in just three years – far exceeding original plans for the model.

Selective modifications in design and innovative equipment features distinguish the new BMW X6 from its competitors within the premium segment of all-wheeldrive automobiles. A number of exterior changes include a new kidney grille with a wider chrome frame and revised bars,

enhanced with design touches which reinforce the sporting character of the new model. Most notable are the dark-tinted matrix front grille and lower air intakes and the ‘rifled’ finish to the exhaust tailpipes. The new GT Speed delivers supreme levels of performance with no compromise.

Featuring in this edition:

44 Luxury Car

The Phantom Series II A closer look into the car designed to lower the pulse.

Tiguan The tiger, the iguana,

50 Executive Class BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé Finally, an elegant, no-nonsense GT

the dark horse

luxyry car

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SPEX

Engine 2.0L L4 turbo DOHC 16-valve Transmission 6 speed manual / 6 speed auto HP (hp@rpm) 200 @ 5100 Torque (lb.ft@rpm) 207 @ 1700

he VW Tiguan (pronounced tig-juan because it’s a crossover between a tiger and an iguana, courtesy of the VW marketing department) could yet be the dark horse in the compact crossover SUV race, making up for being a Johnny-come-lately in the market by introducing innovations like the revolutionary Fatigue Detection system, which senses waning driver concentration and issues a warning via acoustic signal that recurs every 15 minutes should the driver insists staying on the wheels. The measure comes in handy especially noting that research has showed 25 percent of all motorway accidents can be attributed to tiredness—something to ponder upon too when cruising down the stretch of Sheikh Zayed Road, Emirates Road and the connecting inter-city links, among them the Dubai-Abu Dhabi Highway, which, for its part, has gained notoriety over the years for smash-ups. This and other safety measures make

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the Tiguan a hopeful come-from-behind because while many competitors already have established small SUV models in their lineups, the Tiguan, which by the way has the cosmopolitan, city-smart look in it, is breezing through with features that could as yet make it more attractive to motor-savvy car aficionados. Check out the Lane Assist for instance. It autonomously and gently counter steers the car as soon as it becomes apparent that it might leave the lane unintentionally. About 14 percent of all accidents with personal injury are caused by leaving the driving lane, so this system has been designed to minimize that risk. The new Tiguan also comes with the second generation of Park Assist, which now supports assisted perpendicular parking – i.e. at right angles to the driving lane. The system is activated at speeds up to 40 km/h by pressing a button on the centre console. The driver indicates the side of the carriageway for parking by acti

58 Exotic Cars R8 GT Spyder Audi’s scintillating 10-cylinder 12C Spider Sublime comfort from McLaren

The

PhanTom Series II A closer look into the car designed to lower the pulse

2Ways Readers’ suggestions & comments. Let’s talk about it

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vintage

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Bucket list!

Vintage Bucket list! Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

1924 Bugatti

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News, views & novelties

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Winner of the Dubai Intl. Printing Award

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Motor Sport Summer of racing in Europe will keep Al Azhari sharp for next Porsche GT3 Cup test

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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 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

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Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Superleggera Coming in the next issue

Updates

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NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

The new 2013 Lexus RX

Battery not needed

Meet Al-Futtaim Motors’ new baby: A redesigned luxury crossover SUV with an extremely innovative Lexus Hybrid Drive V6 engine. P12

This new Citizen timepiece is powered by light. This timepiece comes in an all-black case, with separate sections at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock, elaborately finished and available in five different colour variations P19

The service centre is equipped with the latest diagnostics technology and tooling. It also has an allfemale customer service team that speaks 8 languages for a more personal touch.

SilberArrows opens in Dubai

Independent Mercedes-Benz Service Centre geared to serve you better An independent 28,000-square-foot,16-bay work area Mercedes-Benz service centre named SilberArrows has opened in Al Quoz 1 near Times Square Shopping Mall with a team of customer service officers ..,. The site, which also houses the SilberArrows main office and a plush customer reception was set up by three partners comprising of a British Mercedes-Benz master technician, trained at the Mercedes-Benz factory in Germany; an Emirati entrepreneur with a host of successful businesses to his name; and a British marketing and sales expert

with a wealth of experience with prestige car companies in the UAE and UK. They have designed the SilberArrows brand to deliver meticulous engineering performance and exceptional customer service. SilberArrows, according to its owners, can cope with all aspects of service, diagnosis and repair throughout the passenger car portfolio within the Daimler brand, including Mercedes-Benz, Maybach, McLaren SLR and AMG. The service centre, they said, is likewise equipped with the latest diagnostics technology and tooling, all operated by a highly capable and qualified techni-

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cal team with over 50 years of Daimler experience between them. SilberArrows supplies and installs genuine Mercedes-Benz spare parts only and has also partnered with Mobil Oil to provide its customers with the highest quality lubricants. Furthermore, the staff can provide service and repair hybrid and armored vehicles. Although specializing in the Daimler brands, the staff likewise has the experience to service and repair other German makes. To ensure that the personal touch is delivered at

all times, SilberArrows has employed an all-female, eight-language customer service team from the airline and healthcare sectors to deliver the finest customer service and attention. Also installed is a dealer management system with the latest handheld wireless tablet technology along with an integrated and interactive online appointment system called “Appoint365” to provide a seamless customer journey. This investment in technology will allow customers to book their service needs online and upon arrival receive a professional reception through its “iPad Check-In” from one of the highly trained and welcoming customer service advisors or CSAs. Complementing the usual garage services for Mercedes-Benz owners in the UAE, SilberArrows is also sole distributor for the globally acclaimed German tuning company MKB-Tuning. This partnership will provide performance upgrades from software enhancements to hardware installations such as exhaust systems and rims. SilberArrows can also provide SMART Repairs including paintless dent removal, minor paint repairs and Gtechniq Paint Protection. The longer term vision for the company is to restore and sell classic Mercedes-Benz vehicles along with providing more modern-day used vehicles as part of an extended portfolio of products and services. These aspirations also include other markets within the GCC with interest already from Bahrain and with sights on other emirates to roll out the SilberArrows brand. For online booking, fixed price services and to register your interest, go to www.silberarrows.com or call their toll free, 800 1934.

The name SilberArrows is a link to the nostalgic Mercedes-Benz racing of yesteryear.

carxpressmag.com

Updates

Porsche 918 Spyder

Not pulling your leg!

A mid-engined two-seater sports car designed by Michael Mauer, the engine of which was derived from the one used in the RS Spyder Le Mans Prototype racing car. P14

Bentley has come up with EXP 9F, a new class of super SUVs, which blends the aesthetics of 1920s Bentleys with 21st century styling and engineering. P19

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

UAE gets Lexus Hybrid Drive System

Meet G-Power’s M5 Hurricane RRs Jubilee model runs with 830 horsepower

All wheel-drive comes with 275hp, 3.5-litre V6 Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributor of Lexus in the UAE, has unveiled the new 2013 Lexus RX. The redesigned luxury crossover SUV features an F-Sport package and, for the first time in the UAE, the RX is also being offered with a much heralded, extremely innovative Lexus Hybrid Drive V6 engine. Power comes from a 275-horsepower, 3.5-litre V-6 coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission. It is also an all-wheel drive version for UAE market. The Lexus RX steps off the line quickly and smoothly and shifts during passing are quick yet downright seamless. Saud Abbasi, General Manager, Al-Futtaim Motors-Lexus said the Lexus RX line for 2013 is smart with exciting enhancements inside and out. “There’s a certain wholesomeness about the design, and its versatile seating is roomy and accommodating for five adults. At the same time, it’s supremely smooth and quiet with the passenger experience extremely refined. The RX will be a strong contender in its segment and promises to elevate the driving experience through a host of luxury, convenience and connectivity features,” he said. According to Abbasi, the numerous interior enhancements include the steering wheel which has been redesigned with a sportier look and a more comfortable and relaxing grip. A metallic accent

enhances the look of the glove box and the centre console has been redesigned for versatility and easy accessibility. The RX is also hallmarked by a bold, elegant and highly individual fascia treatment which is being adopted throughout the brand to strengthen the Lexus family identity between model ranges. A new front fascia brings the look in line with the recently redesigned Lexus GS we launched earlier this year,” Abbasi added. Prices for the 2013 Lexus RX start from AED 179,000.

After the G-Power M5 Hurricane RR with twin-supercharger engine and 800 hp/588 kW set a new high speed record at 372 km/h in 2010, improving the old G-POWER record from 2008, the demand for this power sedan with supercharged V10 engine just exploded. With this, the 100th G-Power Hurricane recently left the workshop in Autenzell as a jubilee model with an additional 30 hp output increase. This light blue G-Power M5 Hurricane RRs is equipped with a reworked version of the high-revving V10 engine modified by G-Power and supercharged by a BI-Kompressor “Sporty

Drive” system. Therefore the two superchargers named ASA T1-313 have been replaced by larger ASA T1316 units. They are both driven by a belt and provide each cylinder bank with supercharged air. Further down the line, the pre-compressed air from the superchargers is cooled for a maximum power output. A complicated aluminium casting—painted in G-Power orange—replaces the standard air box on top of the engine. Its direct inlet is responsible for the spontaneous response characteristics which give the G-POWER motor its incomparable response and also much more torque. The inner workings of the 10-cylinder, fourvalve engine are optimised by light, precisely balanced MAHLE high-performance forged pistons with lower compression and increased mechanical strength. The switch to an Alpha-N engine management system and hence the elimination of the air mass sensors also contribute to the increased power output of 830 hp / 610 kW, available between 7,500 and 8,000 rpm. The engine delivers its peak of torque of 780 Nm at 6,500 rpm.

Citizen introduces ecodrive—powered by light Citizen’s cutting-edge multilayer coating technology has made possible unparalleled colour effects that now feature on the company’s new prestige chronograph watches. This timepiece comes in an all-black case, with separate sections at 3 o’clock and 9 o’clock, elaborately finished and available in five different colour variations: black, white, red, blue and lime. The dial shares its base colour, black, with the case. The outer ring has the same colour accent as the separate parts of the case, for heightened style and sophistication. Powered by light, it never needs a battery.

A tighter, meaner version of the popular Crossover. 12

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Updates

Let your senses explode

Viktor&Rolf is once again overturning convention and revealing a fragrance that makes no concessions. An explosive concentrate of masculine sensuality. Spicebomb. P14

R ead more inside

New guy at the helm

Meet the new Rolls-Royce design director. Forty-four-year-old Giles Taylor joined the Rolls-Royce design team in April 2011 as Head of Exterior Design. P14

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Bentley SUV anyone?

Porsche 918 Spyder to go production Sept. 2013 The Porsche 918 Spyder is on the road: Dr. Ing. h.c. F. Porsche AG, Stuttgart, has taken the driving trials of the super sports car of the future a step further with completion of the initial prototypes. The 918 Spyder will go into production at the end of September 2013 as planned, with the first customers receiving their vehicles before the end of 2013. The prototypes, their camouflage harking

back to historical Porsche 917 racing cars, signal the final touches to the 918 Spyder. The focus is on the interplay between the highly sophisticated individual drive components. The combination of combustion engine and two independent electric

motors – one on the front axle and one in the drive line, acting on the rear wheels – poses completely new demands on the development of the operating strategies. These operating strategies and the development of the software to go with them are one of Porsche’s core competences. Both of them have a major influence on the extreme driving fun to be had with the 918 Spyder and they make possible a unique combination of minimal fuel consumption and maximum performance. The initial re-

sults of the driving trials are in line with the high expectations placed on the 918 Spyder. The super sports car is designed as a plug-in hybrid vehicle combining a high-performance combustion engine with cutting-edge electric motors for extraordinary performance: on the one hand, the dynamics of a racing machine boasting more than 770 hp, on the other hand, fuel consumption in the region of three litres per 100 kilometres. Moreover, Porsche is breaking yet more new ground with the technology demonstrator with spectacular solutions such as the full carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) monocoque with unit carrier, fully adaptive aerodynamics, adaptive rear-axle steering and the upward-venting “top pipes” exhaust system.

The 918 Spyder is powered by a

4.6-liter V8 engine

Bentley has released new dynamic images and video of its luxury performance SUV design concept, the EXP 9 F. The concept had its UK debut at the 2012 Goodwood Festival of Speed which was part of process of gauging customer and public reaction to the idea of a Bentley SUV. This started with its unveiling at the Geneva International Salon d’Auto earlier this year and will continue at the Concours d’Elegance in Pebble Beach, California in August also this year. The new material reaffirms the concept’s

Bentley Motors is the third largest R&D investor in the UK’s automotive sector and the 18th largest nationally. The company employs almost 4,000 people.

with a capacity of

580 hp/430 kW

IWC Schaffhausen and MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Team up When IWC Schaffhausen and AMG, the performance brand of Mercedes-Benz, signed a long-term partnership agreement in 2004, their cooperation was founded on a shared commitment to pushing back the boundaries of mechanics and high technology. Both companies looked back on a long and fruitful history in precision engineering to the highest degree. Since then, they have consolidated their positions at the top of their respective industries and the partnership is set to move to a new level. As an indication of the foundation the two companies have in common, IWC Schaffhausen and the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS ck Fry, CEO sen left, and Ni IWC Schaffhau of O CE g. , rn nin Ke Georges after the sig G PETRONAS MERCEDES AM

Formula One Team are joining forces in a venture that confirms the Swiss watch manufacturer as the Official Engineering Partner of the team. The agreement will take effect in January 2013, two months before the first race of the 2013 Formula One season in Melbourne, Australia. Like the engineers at MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS, IWC’s designers, technicians and master watchmakers are relentless in their pursuit of a level of perfection referred to by both companies as “performance engineering”. IWC has a tradition stretching back many years of working with materials previously unknown in watchmaking, including titanium and ceramics. And the push towards miniaturization made necessary by Formula One calls for skills and ingenuity similar to the groundbreaking approaches adopted in IWC’s first wristwatch-size Grande Complication.

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innovative fusion of contemporary, crafted luxury, advanced technology, commanding driving position and all-terrain capability. EXP 9 F also highlights Bentley’s intent to build the fastest and most luxurious SUV in the world.

Updates

Riyadh Motor Show 2012

Now, multi-tasking at work is easier

On its 29th edition, the five-day event is seen to serve as a platform from where the government’s plan to turn KSA into a regional automotive powerhouse will take off. P18

Xperia sola, Sony Mobile Communications’ latest addition to its portfolio of Androidpowered Xperia smartphones is now in the Middle East. P19

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

BMW X6M in the works Powered by a V8 engine, this new model will deliver 555hp

More than

150,000 X6 vehicles

have been sold worldwide in just three years – far exceeding original plans for the model.

Spicebomb

carxpressmag.com

The 0-60 mph sprint is dispatched in a mere 4.0 seconds (0-100 km/h in 4.2s) and the GT Speed has a top speed of 205 mph (329 km/h).

Meet Bentley’s fastest ever Bentley’s fastest production car ever, the Continental GT Speed coupe which has just recently been released, hits 205 mph (329kph) and is expected to appeal to car lovers who prefer substance than form—indeed a new toy for the big boy! The new Continental GT Speed lives on outright performance, agile handling, distinctive design and sporting luxury. At the heart of this new car is an uprated version of the unique Bentley 6-litre, 48-valve, four-cam, twin turbocharged W12 engine. For the new model, the legendary Bentley W12 develops 625 PS (616 bhp/460 kW) at 6000 rev/min and 800 Nm of torque to deliver thunderous, supercar performance with effortless overtaking capability. The new Speed’s immense power is transmitted via a close-ratio, ZF eight-speed automatic transmission. This state-of-the-art transmission delivers quick yet imperceptible gear changes through intelligent

carxpressmag.com

Updates

The new Gallardo LP 560-4

Audi sells over 4,000 cars in first half 2012

Available at Lamborghini dealerships from November 2012, the new Gallardo LP 560-4 has a unique design with its razor-sharp lines is one of the key factors in its great success worldwide. Nearly 13,000 units have already left the Sant’Agata Bolognese

A total of 4,274 vehicles were delivered to customers in the region in the first six months of 2012, an increase of 15 percent over the same period in 2011. Sales for the month of June also achieved an all-time high with an increase of 18 percent over 2011 (2012: 691; 2011: 585).

NEWS, VIEWS & NOVELTIES

Riyadh Motor Show 2012 Close to 100,000 people expected

On its 29th edition, the five-day event is seen to serve as a platform from where the government’s plan to turn KSA into a regional automotive powerhouse will take off. With car sales on the rise and plans to transform the country into a regional automotive powerhouse currently underway, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), will be holding the 29th Riyadh Motor Show, a much-awaited five-day event that will cast floodlights on new car models and designs before an expected audience of close to 100,000 people, including key players and movers out to strike deals of a lifetime. The government, apparently emboldened by the fact that in 2011 alone, the Kingdom had car sales of approximately 800,000 units with a potential to increase to a million vehicles a year by 2020, has decided it’s time to seriously consider a homegrown car industry starting with plans to manufacture automobile parts by

next year in addition to assembling cars. Such new operations are aimed at diversifying domestic revenues and reducing oil dependency, noting that by next year, the value of car sales is expected to reach SAR 94 billion (US$25 billion). KSA is currently a leading automotive market with firm restrictions on the age of imported vehicles, a rapid population growth, an increasing per capita spending power, and a robust economy – currently the largest in the Gulf. The Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources, as well as the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, are both working to reinforce the country’s status by funding research and development, design, vehicle assembly and infrastructure initiatives to boost automobile exports. Running, Nov. 17 – 22, 2012 at the Riyadh Exhibition Center, Riyadh Motor Show 2012 will feature latest models and designs from the world’s leading car makers. The 2012 edition of the biennial

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show will feature passenger cars, commercial vehicles, motorcycles, vehicle bodies and parts, accessories and tools, and related financial services such as insurance schemes and loans. The 2010 edition signed deals worth approximately US$ 60 million, some 2,000 car financing requests and about 96,000 visitors. Organizers are confident the figures will be even bigger this year. “With plans underway to turn the Kingdom into a regional automotive powerhouse, the Riyadh Motor Show provides an ideal platform for automotive players to discuss current and future opportunities, share the latest technologies and best practices, and forge promising partnerships,” said Kamil Al Jawhari, Project Manager for Riyadh Motor Show at Riyadh Exhibitions Company (REC). He added that the government’s strong support provides a crucial motivation for the sector to expedite growth and reinforce local business strategies. “This event provides momentum for the automotive industry’s expansion drive” This year’s edition will cover around 20,000 sq. meters of prime exhibition space to represent the largest gathering of automotive professionals and consumers the region has ever brought together under one roof. Riyadh Motor Show 2012 will be running concurrently with Saudi Autoshop 2012 - the 15th international exhibition for auto repair, equipment, tools, parts and accessories - exhibiting the latest automotive accessories and spare parts in a one-stopshop event. Exhibits focus on the most advanced products and technologies as well as innovative designs, creating a unique show that attracts a wide audience. The event will also include a diverse program, including test drives and a breathtaking “Hall of Luxury Cars” to feature an exclusive collection of premium highend cars.

Al Ain to hold second car show Luxury cars, test drives to highlight event Car enthusiasts and fans alike will once again be drawn to AL Ain in Abu Dhabi for the muchawaited second edition of the Al Ain Motor

approximately 5,000 square meters. The event had over 5,000 visitors. Organizers said they expect even more people in the second edition.

Show MOTEX 2013, an event regarded as the biggest of its kind in the emirate. Slated to be held, Jan. 17-20, 2013, MOTEX 2013 will showcase the latest models in high-end cars guaranteed to awe enthusiasts and collectors. Another highlight of the event is the Test Drive Area and Off Road Zone where car lovers can try the latest models with hands on the wheels to experience how it is to be driving these cars. The Off Road Zone will be for all 4×4 vehicles and quid bikes. Visitors can run the vehicles on different tracks and locations. Al Ain is one of the biggest and fast-growing automobile market in the country. The first Al Ain motor show was held Dec. 8 – 11, 2012 also at the Al Ain Convention Centre. It had 32 exhibitors for a gross space of

The Al Ain Motor Show MOTEX 2013 attracts a wide range of visitors, cutting across a broad spectrum of the automobile industry— from car manufacturers to government officials and media, among others. The event is a perfect venue for car dealers to network with new customers, suppliers and business partners. It is also the place for businesses and car owners to discover new, more cost-effective solutions, get expert advice regarding specific challenges, and stay up-to-date on the emerging or changing trends. The motor show will be held under the patronage of H.H Sheikh Hazza Bin Tahnoon Al Nahyan, General Manager, Dewan of the Ruler’s Representative in the Eastern Region. The event was organized by Tomouh Exhibition.

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Sony’s Xperia sola now in the Middle East and Africa Sony Mobile Communications has announced the arrival of Xperia sola, Floating the latest addition to its portfolio of touch Android-powered Xperia smartphones to the Middle Eastern and African market. Complete with Sony technology, premium entertainment and innovative “floating touch” navigation, the NFC-enabled Xperia sola comes equipped with Xperia SmartTags, allowing consumers to change their smartphone settings and applications in an instant. Xperia sola also supports NFC pairing, for greater connectivity with other NFC smartphones, applications and services by simply tapping the devices together. Other features include razor sharp clarity with Reality Display powered by Mobile BRAVIA Engine, xLOUD, 3D surround sound audio technology delivering crisp and loud sound, and a 1GHz dual-core processor for super fast performance. Xperia sola also comes with fast capture to take the camera from sleep to snap in a little over a second with a single key press. The Sony Xperia sola is priced at AED 1,399 and available in black and white colours. Operating on Android platform 2.3 (Gingerbread), the sola will receive an upgrade to Android platform 4.0 (Ice Cream Sandwich) in the third quarter of 2012.

Cover Story A special choice for an awesome read.

The perfect

joyride

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2.0 Litre, 1998cc, BOXER 4 cylinder 6 speed 200 hp/7000 rpm 20.9 kg-m/6400-6600 rpm

SPEX

Engine Transmission Maximum output Maximum torque

A TORSEN LSD reduces the variations in movement of the left and right wheels.

It took six years to develop this ‘drifting lightning.’ –Tetsuya Tada, Toyota chief engineer, tells us why.

hey say all good things come to an end. Not this time. The lightning was gone but it left behind the 86, which recently launched in the UAE with the promise of a perfect joyride. Toyota 86—pronounced “8-6”—apparently took off from the AE86 generation of the Toyota Corolla Levin series, a 1983 lightweight coupé largely credited for giving new meaning to the word “drift.” Levin is old English for “lightning.” And so there you have it: Toyota 86, “lightning adrift.”

Six years

Tetsuya Tada, Toyota chief engineer who was behind the project from conception to production told Car Xpress it took around six years to develop the 86.

Car Xpress asked why, and this was what the motor guru said, “We designed the 86 from nothing at all. First, we took surveys to find out what the ideal sports car for enthusiasts would be, and developed a completely new platform and engine. Furthermore, we drove the prototype cars extensively throughout the world at the final refinement development stage. “We wanted to provide that joy of driving. Everything in this car is balanced—body weight and suspension among them, that is why this car is easy to control in any situation.”

Different

Toyota 86 is different from other cars in this segment—coupé with two litre and normal aspiration engine—in that this is the only one that “adopts the

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front engine-rear drive layout,” Tada said. He further explained: “The development concept was a rear-wheel-drive car with intuitive handling, and we aimed to create a compact sports car that runs just along with the driver’s wishes. “The 86 equips an outstanding power unit with Subaru’s horizontally opposed engine and Toyota’s next-generation D-4S direct-injection technology which is mounted at front mid-ship position. “It realizes an epoch-making low center of gravity. In addition, with a light weight and compact body, the 86 can provide the driver with a new dimension in driving enjoyment.” This probably explains why this gorgeous work of art drifts smoothly; if only they can design roads curving all the time so we can all drive sideways all the time!!

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Sit in the cockpit and you will realise that this is no ordinary sports car Innovations

Tada said he would like to improve the 86 every year. “There are several ideas in my mind. However, we cannot disclose future product plan.” “I believe I have created an entirely new dimension of a sports car that embodies the joy of driving and the pleasure of ownership.” Tada said the 86 was well accepted in Japan where sales started following its launch in April this year. According to him, there have been many inquiries, with the order volume having gone up seven times more than the 1,000 units per month that was planned for the first month after the launch. “We have to ask our customers to wait for their 86. I expect similar customer feedback in the Middle East region,” he said when asked what he thinks would the UAE market’s respond to the new car be.

Extraordinary

The lock-up clutch of the transmission operates from low speeds, providing a more direct driving feel.

Th 86 is also available with a six-speed automatic transmission.

The 86 is a rear wheel drive

The breaks feature good response and precise deceleration control from low to high Gs.

The Toyota 86 has a low 400mm hip point that gives a super-sporty feel, while the steering wheel, meters, shift and parking brake levers, switches, seats and other details are designed to enhance driving pleasure. A center point mark is provided on the upper middle part of the instrument panel so you are able to clearly determine the car’s attitude and the tires’ point of contact. All this design enhancements are based on functionality, endlessly stimulating the driver’s passion.

Unconventional

The way FT 86 was conceived and produced was, as Tada said, “unconventional.” “We wanted to restore the people’s dreams of, and longing for, automobiles, which have been largely forgotten. (W)ithout focusing on numbers, our intention was to build a sports car that would give a huge boost to people’s joy of driving,” he said.. “To make this a reality,” he added, “we departed from the conventional manufacturing process of planning the car based on the agreement of company directors and groups. Instead, it was our passion and enthusiasm that drove us to create this brand new sports car. “Through the introduction of the Toyota 86 that pursued automotive dreams and enjoyment, we hope to deliver the joy of driving, which is the fundamental appeal and merit of cars to many people.”

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lube bay special

So,why was

Krayzie Bone in Dubai?

We asked the Lamborghini guy, and here’s the story

rammy award-winner rap artist Krayzie Bone needed a fast car fast. He was in Dubai to shoot a hit song and found himself in a room full of blings on wheels. He must’ve told himself, “Dang! I’m gonna get one of those.” And so he did—a US$200,000 Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante just like momma used to tell’im, “Son, you grow up and git yourself one of those!” Krayzie Bone and his crew were in Dubai back in June this year to film a video for the song “Hating on Me” to be released in November. The film was shot on location

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at Dubai Marina, at portion of Sheikh Zayed Road along the Jumeirah Lakes Towers (JLT) area and at the showroom of Exotic Cars on Sheikh Zayed Road, where before the filming, Krayzie Bone had gone to check out the cars on display.

It happened like this “He went to the showroom with his entourage of six people. He went to see the cars and walked away,” said Saquib Abdul, head of marketing at Exotic Cars. “The next day, he came back and said he’s buying. I didn’t know who he was. I thought they all looked like wannabe star

‘I didn’t know who he was. He came with his entourage. I thought they all looked like wannabe star rappers. He came back the next day and bought the US$200,000 car.’ – Saquib Abdul, Exotic Cars rappers. They actually were star rappers,” he told Car Xpress on the phone, laughing. Abdul said the showroom shot of the video was done at 4am. “He chose Dubai for the shooting because of its fantastic sceneries. He love the marina. They also shot at Sheikh Zayed Road; they closed a portion of Sheikh Zayed Road near the

dynamics. To ensure ideal combustion chamber fill, the engine has an adjustable intake manifold and continuous control of the chain-driven camshafts. The crankshaft is conceived as a dual-plane crank – the connecting rods of opposing pistons share one bearing. This configuration delivers alternating ignition intervals of 54 and 90 degrees; a unique sequence that is the reason for the compelling, racing car-like sound of the V10. As the revs rise, resounding bass notes are overlaid with razor sharp harmonics. The powerful V10, combined with the model’s weight reduction, gives the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante breathtaking performance. The sprint from zero to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 3.9 seconds. Drive continues relentlessly to a top speed of 324 km/h (201 mph). The Gallardo Spyder Performante is a highlyconcentrated driving machine – it thrills with breathtaking cornering speeds and fast, immediate reflexes. Its handling is always precise, stable and predictable.

Krayzie Bone, left, with Exotic Cars CEO Zahid Yahya in front of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante at the store’s showroom.

JLT area,” he said. Abdul said the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 5704 Spyder Performante cost US200,000. He said Krayzie Bone, whose Dubai project was done in collaboration with local rap star Two Tone, took it with him back to the states. Exotic Cars has a whole range of luxury cars

The weight distribution of the superlight Gallardo is 43/57 percent front/rear.

including Ferrari and Rolls-Royce.

Uncompromising

The Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante is an uncompromising driving machine, It has a V10 power unit with a displacement of 5.2 liters that generates 419 kW—570 horsepower thus the name Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4. Its chassis, with its mighty brakes, is a work of great precision, while the new 19-inch wheels with Pirelli P Zero Corsa sports tires are extremely lightweight. The LP 570-4 Performante brings a new meaning to the term “Spyder”.

3.9 seconds from zero to 100 km/h

In the Gallardo LP 570-4 Spyder Performante, LP stands for “Longitudinale Posteriore” and refers to the orientation of the V10 engine – which is mounted longitudinally behind the driver, just like every Lamborghini engine. The number 570 refers to the maximum power output in hp, which equates to 419 kW and is available at 8,000 rpm. Equally impressive is the pulling power – the torque curve peaks at 540 Nm (398,3 ft lbs) at 6,500 rpm. The increase of 7 kW (10 hp) is the result of the new dedicated engine management strategy. The V10 has a displacement of 5,204 cm3 and achieves a specific output of 80.5 kW (109.6 hp) per liter. Special features on this long-stroke engine with an aluminum crankcase include dry sump lubrication and a cylinder angle of 90 degrees. Both solutions lower the center of gravity, thus improving handling

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The car is a highly concentrated driving machine with breathtaking cornering speeds and fast reflexes.

History

The history of open-top Lamborghinis began with small volumes. In 1965, the company built just two of the 350 GTS, the open-top version of the first model to be produced in Sant’Agata Bolognese. Even more tragic from today’s perspective is that only one copy of the exquisite P400 Miura Roadster from 1968 was ever built. Lamborghini unveiled its first series production open-top in 1976 with the Silhouette – its V8 mid-engine with 250 hp offered refined performance, while a removable roof delivered that topless feeling. Its successor was the Jalpa Speedster, which was launched in 1986. The V8 power unit with a 90-degree cylinder bank angle was once again mounted behind the seats, albeit enlarged to 3.5 liters – which, with the same output, guaranteed much better torque. In 1992 it was an open-top Lamborghini that was anointed the hero of the Geneva Motor Show – low-set with a sharply angled windscreen and an amazingly powerful looking rear end, the Diablo Roadster cut an impressive figure on the Lamborghini stand. The series production version came in 1995 – with its 5.7 liter twelve-cylinder and all-wheel drive, it was a true super car. Its output of 492 hp ensured it a top speed of 323 km/h with the roof open or closed. The rear-wheel drive Diablo SV Roadster followed in 1998. Finally, the Murciélago Roadster made its appearance in 2005 as a super-modern interpretation of the open-top twelve-

cylinder. The true hero among the open-top Lamborghinis, however, is by far and away the Gallardo Spyder – at least, when it comes to the number produced. The first generation appeared in 2006, with a ten-cylinder engine, 520 hp and an electrohydraulic roof engineered for high-speed driving. The

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second generation followed in 2008 – the Gallardo LP 560-4 Spyder. Its designed had been sharpened even further, its output increased to 560 hp and many detail improvement made throughout, demonstrating the dedication that Lamborghini applies to perfecting its super sports cars.

Road Tests On the driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

BMW M5

RoadTest

BMW M5 My Redding-Queen joy ride

4.4L (4395cc) V8 Twin-Turbo 8-speed dual clutch 0 to 100km/h in 4.4 seconds 250km/h (can be increased to 305 km/h with optional M-DriversPackage

Average fuel consumption 9.9 litres

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SPEX

Engine Transmission Acceleration Top Speed

itting on the dock of the bay, watching the tide roll away, as Otis Redding put it in his 1967 hit, would have been an appropriate mind-song as I idled away whistling the tune by a seaside road next to the Dubai International Marine Club in Mina Seyahi under a slightly overcast sky. But I got a craving for a ride, my feet itching for the gas pedal and my hands clasping each other as it would holding a steering wheel. Standing by from a good two meters away was my mean-looking, sonnafagun metallic blue BMW M5 staring at me with a frown like asking, “So, are we going to just be sitting here all day?” It was a choice between Redding and my M5 so I hopped in, pushed the power button on and was soon cruising—lovely day for a ride, anyway, I told myself. The M5 is a very strong car. I step on the gas and it lets out a muffled roar which gives me the feeling I am driving a race car not a city sedan. On curves—ascending, descending or levelled—I can go on a good breezy speed and the car stays on the lane, which makes for extreme stability and easy handling. The same with cornering where you mix brakes with a little speed to negotiate a turn

while steering the wheel; in an M5 it’s totally effortless. I guess it’s because the new BMW M5 has chassis technology that includes electronically controlled dampers, M-specific Servotronic steering, a stability control system with M Dynamic Mode and high-performance compound brakes – which was developed on the back of racing expertise and is weight-optimised and tuned to the output profile of the powerplant. In congested roads I hear very little outside noise if at all, except for the constant humming of the newly developed, high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology that produces maximum output of 412 kW/560 hp at 6,000 – 7,000 rpm and peak torque of 680 Newton metres (502 lb-ft) between 1,500 and 5,750 rpm. The instantaneous power delivery and sustained thrust familiar from BMW’s M cars make for the acceleration of 0–100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.4 seconds. The owner’s manual says output has increased by around 10 percent and maximum torque is up by more than 30 percent, and that the new BMW M5 burns over 30 percent less fuel than its predecessor. I think so. I won’t bum you with the nitty-gritty car talk details that should probably be best kept in the garage with the oil stains and all. I’m talking

joy ride and that’s what the M5 is all about. Sound system is so great you’d hear everything from the woofing bass to a pindrop treble. Cruising, you won’t have to look down to check your speed—there’s a speedometer right on the windshield! On stop lights, this baby just sits tight—no rattles, no squeaks—which gives your attention to the interior design, control concept and innovative equipment features of the car: sports seats, an M leather steering wheel, and an Mspecific instrument cluster and centre console lend the cockpit a classical sports car feeling. My dealer told me I can also give my M5 a personal touch, since virtually the full range of options for the BMW 5 Series Sedan are also available for the M5, including a host of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. They say a car is an investment. Indeed, in the case of my BMW M5, it’s money well spent. My hands tapping the steering wheel a bit, my head swinging a little as the radio sings Queen’s “I Need Somebody to Love,” I came cruising down Dubai Media City whistling a new tune. Bye for now Redding, I just found somebody—or something, that is—to love.

The has posted a lap time of 7:55 at Nürburgring race track

This car is powered by the upgraded S63 engine.

Manual gearbox option has been confirmed for the US market only

The BMW M5 officially debuted at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

This car weights 1945 kilograms.

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2012TOYOTA LAND CRUISER

RoadTest

This vehicle was announced as a concept car in 2006.

Tiguan The tiger, the iguana, the dark horse

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2.0L L4 turbo DOHC 16-valve 6 speed manual / 6 speed auto 200 @ 5100 207 @ 1700

SPEX

Engine Transmission HP (hp@rpm) Torque (lb.ft@rpm)

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vating the indicator for that side. Park Assist utilises its 12 ultrasonic sensors to detect a sufficiently large parking space, and then assisted parking can begin: the driver engages reverse gear and only needs to accelerate and brake.

The Tiguan is available in a variety of specification levels.

quick look

Moreover, the new Tiguan enjoys a large boot space that can be adjusted from 470 litres to 1,510 litres. It also comes equipped with a number of other innovative on-board systems like the DCC adaptive chassis control, Dynamic Light Assist, Park Assist, Park Pilot with visual display, Rear Assist and XDS electronic differential lock. Inside, the car is fitted with the RCD 210, RCD 310, RCD 510 Radio-CD or RNS 510 Radio-navigation system. Other peripherals include a MEDIA-IN port for USB or iPod, AUX-IN port, Dynaudio sound system (300 Watt). Volkswagen is hopeful these features would make the Tiguan an attractive proposition for UAE car owners. No less than Marcus Butros, VW Middle East sales director has said the car, an “ideal and versatile companion for life on the move,” got 21 percent of the market share in Germany—its home court—and 12 percent across Europe in 2010. “We are looking to continue this success with the new look Tiguan and its further advanced technologies in the Middle East,” he said. While it’s a totally different story altogether in the Middle East, something just might give.

The Tiguan’s largest markets in order of sales are Europe, Russia, US, Brazil and Australia The Tiguan is assembled in Germany, Russia, China and Vietnam. The other possible names for the car were Namib, Rockton, Liger, Samun, and Nanok. The import version of Tiguan appeared on the Chinese market in 2009.

4 cylinder The Tiguan was initially built by German automaker Auto . All Tiguans are -cylinder powered.

5000

As of 2011, over 700,000 Tiguans have been sold worldwide.

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Production of the Tiguan startrd in September 2007.

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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: Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II, BMW 6 Series Gran CoupĂŠ, Audi Q3, Audi R8 GT Spyder and McLaren MP4-12C . Enjoy the ride.

luxyry car

The

Phantom Series II A closer look into the car designed to lower the pulse

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he sublime magic carpet ride has just become an even more exhilarating experience that lowers the pulse.

And it is now in the UAE—the Rolls-Royce Phantom Series II, a family of pinnacle cars that have been thoughtfully updated with the introduction of cutting-edge technology, enhancements to an already peerless drive-train and improvements in connectivity that reflect the changing world. Thus, from five cameras that combine to present a fish-eye view at blind junctions to an updated satellite navigation system that allows for a 3D map display and enhanced safety system that makes up to 4,000 calculations a second in the event of an impact and deploy measures like intelligent braking and restraint, Rolls-Royce lives high above expectations because these “timeless cars cannot afford to stand still in a modern world (where) technology moves rapidly,” as Torsten Müller-Ötvös, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars CEO, said.

Drive-train

The Phantom’s drive-train has been enhanced with the addition of a new 8-speed automatic gearbox and rear differential to perfectly complement the hand-assembled, naturally aspirated 6.75 litre V12 direct injection petrol engine that develops 531lb ft of torque (720Nm) more than three quarters of

which is available at 1,000 rpm. The torque curve remains largely flat between 1,000 and 3,000 rpm - an important prerequisite for effortless city driving - and moves occupants from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds and onto an electronically limited top speed of 149mph (155mph for Phantom Coupé) where market conditions allow.

This is electronically controlled to manage the extraordinary power delivered by the V12 power plant. Moreover, the longer ratio in the new rear differential compensates shorter ratios in some gears of the new 8-speed gearbox, maintaining the same engine speed to augment “waftability”, while improving fuel economy. Fuel consumption has improved by 10 percent on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions have dropped from 385g/km to 347g/km as a consequence (388 to 349 for Phantom Extended Wheelbase).

Cameras

Cameras are positioned in five locations, two in the curves of the front bumper, two on the underside of each wing mirror and one in the trunk lid. These combine to present a fish-eye view at blind junctions or to provide ground images with obstacle recognition and reverse path prediction when parking.

The Phantom II was featured in the film, “Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.”

The Rolls-Royce Phantom II was the 3rd and last of Rolls-Royce’s 40/50 hp models replacing the New Phantom in 1929.

Rolls-Royce lives up to its famous promise of a magic carpet ride 46

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This automatically deploys on the control centre display when reverse gear is selected and highlights the optimum reversing trajectory.

Intelligent

The Phantom’s inherent safety benefits have also been enhanced by other systems controlled by Phantom’s ISIS (Intelligent Safety and Information System). This takes readings from sensors located throughout the car and, in the event of an impact, makes up to 4,000 calculations a second to establish its severity, deploying safety systems as necessary. These include intelligent braking and restraint systems such as Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control and seat belt pre-tensioners. The satellite navigation system, for its part, has been fully updated with functions that include 3D map display with landscape topography, guided tours, as well as enhanced points of interest and composite route planning.

Headlamps

The front gets a revised bumper, full/adaptive rectangular LED headlights.

Adaptive headlamps automatically change beam patterns according to driving conditions. Light is dispersed more widely for driving speeds below 50km/h to enable better views of cyclists and pedestrians. Between 50 and 120km/h the light cone extends and is skewed towards the near side to reveal potential hazards on a driver’s side of the road, while for motorway driving at speeds in excess of 120km/h, the beam has a longer range and is more intense. Where windscreen wipers have been operating for more than two minutes in poor weather, dipped beams are automatically illuminated.

The Phantom II used a refinement of the Phantom I’s

General data Engine Configuration Displacement Bore/Stroke Compression Power Torque

60o V12 6.749 Litre/411.8 cu in 84.6 mm/92.0 mm 11.0 : 1 453 bhp/338 KW@5350 rpm 720 Nm/531 ft lbs@3500 rpm

7.7 L engine. 48

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BMW

executive class

Series

Gran CoupĂŠ 50

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Finally, an elegant, no-nonsense GT carxpressmag.com

SPEX

Engine 3.0L Twin Scroll Turbocharged Diesel (2993 cc) 16. Transmission 6-speed manual 8-speed automatic Wheelbase 112.4 in Length 192.7 in

BMW extended the 6 Series range with a fourdoor saloon to provide a rival to the Audi A7 and Mercedes-Benz CLS. Electronic Driving Control

‘Not only does this sports car look good, it was built for sporty driving, comfortable shifting and optimised efficiency.’ —Kevin Hughes, general manager, AGMC

rom an interactive system that has everything from park assist to collision warning, and turbocharged engines that kick in 100 kilometres in 5.4 seconds, not to mention drive settings and a state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen surround sound system, indeed, this indulgence, an elegant, no-nonsense GT named BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé’s time has come. The car is the first four-door Coupé in the history of the BMW brand and has arrived in the UAE following its unveiling to global audiences at the 82nd Geneva International Motor Show earlier in March this year.

The Grand Coupé is available in 640i, 640d and 650i derivatives.

TwinPower Turbo technology, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé offers a sporty and powerful drive experience. The six-in-line engine in the BMW 640i Gran Coupé comprises a turbocharging system, High Pressure Injection and VALVETRONIC, twin-scroll turbocharging. The exhaust gas pulses from each bank of three cylinders are fed through two separate channels to the turbine wheel. This produces maximum power of 320 hp, at 5,800 to 6,000 rpm, from a displacement of 3.0 litres allowing the BMW 640i Gran Coupé to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. “Power in both engines of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé is managed by an eight-speed sports automatic transmission. With its extremely fast gear changes, this unit is built for sporty driving, comfortable shifting and optimised efficiency. It is operated using the electronic gear selector on the centre console,” Hughes said.

Designed with state-of-the-art chassis technology, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé will delight drivers with its dynamic performance and outstanding refinement. Highlights that come as standard include Electric Power Steering and Dynamic Damper Control to help provide the perfect balance between dynamics and comfort. An unrivalled range of BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance technology features for enhanced comfort and safety include BMW Park Assistant, Speed Limit Information, camera-based Collision Warning with braking function (in conjunction with Active Cruise Control) and the latest-generation full colour BMW Head-Up Display that projects the symbols on the windscreen in 3D. As with all BMW models, the 6 Series Gran Coupé features an exclusive options list that includes active steering, comfort seats and sports seats, active seats, seat ventilation, Exclusive Nappa leather, ceramic ap-

“Not only does this sports car look good, but as you know, the heart of the BMW brand is performance—the sheer driving pleasure every customer experiences when they get behind the steering wheel of a BMW,” said Kevin Hughes, general manager, AGMC.

Synergy

The third model in the BMW 6 Series line-up, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé follows the successful debut of the next generation Convertible and Coupé models launched last year. The aim in the design process of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé was to achieve a synergy between the aesthetics and dynamics typical of a BMW Coupé and functional versatility of a four-door sedan. The result is a unique car with a distinctive character but unmistakably a BMW. The four-door Coupé is a four-seater that offers generous travel comfort in the back with an additional third rear seat which can be used for shorter journeys.

Engine

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BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé starts at

360,000

AED

in the UAE

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plications, heated rear seats and 4-zone automatic climate control. There is also a Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System that offers brilliant sound experience from every seat. Bang & Olufsen designs and manufacturers high-end audio products and televisions and so was the perfect audio partner for the new 6 Series Gran Coupé.

SUV

Its coupe-like styling is a one-of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity.

few days ahead of its world premiere at the recent Shanghai Auto Show, German premium car manufacturer Audi revealed the new Audi Q3 compact SUV. Audi’s latest addition to its model range sets standards in all aspects of engineering and design. The Audi Q3 is designed as a versatile companion for everyday life with an urbane character. Its coupe-like styling is a one-of-a-kind among SUVs and symbolizes its sporty identity. Thanks to systematic lightweight design, the basic version of the Audi Q3 weighs less than 1,500 kilograms. Its low drag coefficient of just 0.32 also enhances fuel efficiency considerably. The interior of Audi’s latest model is very

roomy; its ergonomics and its workmanship with many possibilities for customization are exemplary. The luggage compartment offers 460 to 1,365 liters of capacity – ideal for sports and leisure. To supplement the extensive standard settings Audi will offer numerous options straight from the luxury class, including the adaptive light technology, an enhanced parking assistant and an entire set of infotainment components. The Audi Q3 will be available in the Middle East from the first half of 2012.

Debut

The Audi Q3 is an automobile by Audi AG of Germany that debuted commercially this

New

Audi Q3

Versatile and urbane 54

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year. The five-door coupe crossover was designed

The Audi Q3 first appeared worldwide in 2011. It is the smallest SUV by Audi.

SPEX

Turbocharged dohc I41 Horsepower @ rpm. Torque (lb-ft) @ rpm. EPA Fuel Economy Est - City EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy Drivetrain

200 @ 5100 207 @ 1800 21 MPG 30 MPG Front-Wheel Drive

The Audi Q3 is easily the youngest member of the large Audi family. It offers ample room for 5 passangers.

as more of a lifestyle-sports car, rather than for the family-offroad market its larger Q5 & Q7 siblings aimed for. The car combines a transverse engine layout with flexible steering and suspension offers. The Q3 will borrow many Golf Mk5, or possibly Golf Mk6, components, such as a Direct-Shift Gearbox (DSG) dual clutch transmission and a 147 kW (197 hp) 2.0 FSI turbo engine featured in the current Golf

GTI. The car should also feature a 171 kW (229 hp) 3.0 turbo-diesel V6 & a 210 kW (282 hp) 3.6 FSI V6 for the flagship, the Q3S. While the car should be available in both frontwheel drive (FWD), and quattro “on-demand” four-wheel drive variants, there will be no heightadjustable suspension, lockable differentials or lowrange gearing. Instead, the car will feature larger wheels and a sports suspension. The car has been approved due to the declining sales large SUVs are currently experiencing, and the public’s healthier appetite for smaller crossovers. The company is targeting niche markets to reach its ambitious sales targets, and the Q3 is part of these plans. The production name will undergo change from “Q3” to another name as an agreement with carmaker Infiniti stipulates. Various Audi concept cars have debuted with the name “Cross Coupe” and this name is a possibility for the production Q3.

The Q3 combines a transverse engine layout with flexible steering and suspension offers.

Officials say the Q3 borrows many Golf Mk5 and Mk6 parts 56

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exotic cars

R8 Spyder Audi’s scintillating 10-cylinder

Only 333 of this sports car will be built—each with an individual number on the gear lever.

ven lighter, even more powerful, even more captivating, the Audi R8 GT Spyder, was unveiled at the 2012 Qatar Motor Show Audi as the new open-top flagship model of the R8 model line. As with the coupe GT, just 333 of the high-performance sports car will be built—each with an individual number on the gear lever.

Thrust and bite

The Audi R8 GT Spyder delivers scintillating performance. In every situation, the engine impresses with its thrust and bite—and that unmistakable sound of an Audi ten-cylinder. The 5.2-liter V10 develops 560 hp and 540 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm, accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 317 km/h. Each unit of horsepower has to move only 2.93 kilograms. Thanks to the Audi ultra lightweight technology of the Audi Space Frame and the use of innovative materials such as ultra-light magnesium and carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP), the R8 GT Spyder’s weighs in at just 1,640 kilograms. That’s 85 kilograms less than its technical basis, the R8 Spyder 5.2 FSI quattro. Incredibly, the body accounts for just 214 kilograms of the total weight.

Automated

The Audi R8 GT Spyder comes with an automated six-speed R tronic transmission with two fully automatic modes. The driver can also shift gears using the paddles on the steering wheel or by flicking the joystick. Drive to

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The R8 GT Spyder starts from

US$204,353 in GCC

the 19-inch wheels is transmitted via a rear wheel biased quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Lightweight carbon-fiber ceramic brake discs decelerate the car with supreme ease. In classic Audi fashion, the R8 GT Spyder features a lightweight fabric soft top that is extremely quiet and fully suitable for highway cruising. The roof can be raised or lowered in just 19 seconds and at speeds up to 50 km/h.

Visual mods

Visual modifications accentuating the styling of the R8 GT Spyder include add-on parts in contrasting titanium gray matt, a front splitter with a dual lip, flics at the sides of the front bumper, red GT badges, round exhaust tailpipes in matt black, an enlarged diffuser and dark LED tail lights. Great attention to detail is evident in the materials and workmanship inside the car. The open two-seater offers a roomy interior. Numerous details – including the distinctive R8 “monoposto” made of matt CFRP, white dials and R8 GT logos – provide classy accents. The standard equipment includes LED head and tail lights, navigation system plus, and a driver information system with a built-in laptimer. Owners can also enjoy the sophisticated Bang & Olufsen sound system and a Bluetooth interface including seatbelt microphone. R8 GT specific options include bucket seats with a carbon-fiber composite chassis, matt CFRP applications and embroidered logos on the seat upholstery.

The car uses an aluminium monocoque built around space frame principles.

The salient aspect of the controls is their logically structured design. The open two-seater offers a roomy interior, and its front end can accommodate up to 100 liters of cargo. The rear bulkhead houses three storage compartments.

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The interior is black and can be adorned with stitching in a choice of titanium gray or crimson red for added refinement. Alcantara upholstery comes standard – on the sport steering wheel and windshield frame, too.

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12C

Hear the unhindered howl of a V8 twin turbo engine at full throttle

McLaren presents sublime comfort

cLaren Automotive has unveiled its second model in the MP4-12C family: the stunning new 12C Spider. With a lightweight, high powered engine developing an incredible 625 PS (616 bhp), unique RHT folding roof system that may be operated while on the move, and carbon ‘MonoCell’ chassis identical to that of the groundbreaking 12C, the 12C Spider is a luxury convertible sports car that offers prospective owners a unique combination of spectacular performance with remarkable usability. The new 12C Spider is now available to order from McLaren retailers across the globe.

transmitted to the car’s rear driven wheels through a 7 Speed SSG dual-clutch transmission, which itself provides lightning-fast gear changes through rocker-mounted shift paddles affixed to the rear of the steering wheel. A clear view of the 12C Spider’s lightweight M838T power plant is available through a glass screen positioned behind the tonneau cover. Vehicle dynamics technology including Brake Steer, ProActive Chassis Control and the unique McLaren Airbrake combine to offer sublime comfort in all driving conditions; and yet deliver race car performance and handling on track.

the MP4/1 race car, and in 1992 the legendary McLaren F1 introduced the advanced composite technology to the world of road cars. It was natural then for McLaren Automotive engineers to apply its carbon expertise when developing the groundbreaking one-piece moulded chassis of the 12C. With the 12C designed originally as a convertible, its 75kg ‘MonoCell’ requires no additional strengthening for it to feature in the 12C Spider. The result is a sports car almost identical to its fixed roof equivalent in performance terms, and weighing only 40kg more with the addition of a convertible roof system.

How it runs

Highlights

McLaren is a carbon pioneer. In 1981 McLaren gave a debut to a carbon fibre monocoque chassis in Formula 1 with the launch of

Retractable

The 12C Spider’s impressive 625 PS output from its bespoke 3.8-litre V8 twin turbo engine is

The Retractable Hard Top of the 12C Spider is operated using a switch in the lower section of the centre console inside the cabin, taking less than 17 seconds to raise or lower. Unlike many other convertible models, the roof can be operated whilst the 12C Spider is moving at speeds of up to 30 kph. Behind driver and passenger sits a rear windscreen which may also be electronically lowered and raised. With the roof lowered this acts as wind deflector to minimise disturbance to the 12C Spider’s occupants. With the roof raised, the rear window can be lowered, allowing the exhilarating noise of the 12C Spider’s V8 twin turbo engine to flood the cabin on demand at any time. With the roof raised the area under the tonneau can be used as an additional luggage area which provides 52 litres of useful storage space. Bespoke luggage has been designed specifically to fit this space and is supplied as standard with every 12C Spider. The 12C Spider also features a passive Roll Over Protection System to maximise occupant safety. Each buttress contains a steel structure designed to absorb impact energy and protect both driver and passenger.

Personalized

Launched in Volcano Red - one of 17 exterior paint finishes currently available for the

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12C and 12C Spider- both 12C derivatives will also be available in optional Volcano Yellow, a striking new high quality paint which features in the “Elite” range of exterior finishes. Inside, an exclusive new interior trim has been developed for the 2013 model year 12C and new 12C Spider. High quality semi-aniline perforated leather and Alcantara may be selected in a variety of combinations to suit an owner’s personal taste. A new wheel design, and ‘Diamond Cut’ finishes for existing lightweight and super lightweight forged wheel designs may be selected for the 12C Spider. Standard Silver or Stealth finishes are offered for all wheel designs.

12C Spider

now available to order through 38 McLaren retailers in 22 countries worldwide

Lift

retailers in every major automotive market. Around 4,000 sports cars will be built annually by the middle of the decade in the advanced new manufacturing facility, the McLaren Production Centre. McLaren Automotive’s debut model is the 12C. Drawing on the company’s long-standing Formula 1 experience in its concept and development, the 12C is lighter, faster, more powerful, more fuel efficient and more exclusive than its key competition. It supports its performance benchmarks by introducing a unique one-piece moulded carbon chassis into the ‘core’ sports car segment in a new

The McLaren 12C Spider is now available to order at all of McLaren’s 38 retailers in 22 countries worldwide, with deliveries to first customers planned for November 2012.

Vehicle Lift will be available as an option on 2013 model year vehicles. The system allows the 12C Spider to be raised front and rear for improved ground clearance. This technology permits the vehicle to be raised by up to 40mm at the front and 25mm at the rear of the 12C Spider, and may remain in position at up to 60kph. Prospective customers and sports car fans alike are encouraged to visit the new 12C Spider online configurator, and discover a range of exciting options that may be specified in literally millions of unique combinations. The 12C Spider configurator is now live at: www.configure.mclaren.com

McLaren Automotive heritage:

McLaren Automotive has a 20 year heritage in producing landmark sports cars for the road: the McLaren F1 road car, which was launched in 1992, set the world land speed record for a production car, and is regarded as one of the iconic sports cars of the modern age. The Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (2003 – 2009) is the most successful supercar ever in its price bracket, having sold twice as many cars as its nearest carbon-based rival. McLaren Automotive has now moved from these successful automotive projects to launching a new car company that will design, develop, and distribute a range of high performance, highly efficient and technologically innovative sports cars through a global network of highly respected premium car

“The 12C Spider delivers all the thrills characteristic of a high performance roadster, and yet transforms into a raucous track beast at the flick of a switch.” —Antony Sheriff, McLaren Automotive Managing Director 64

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production method that brings the performance of £500,000 cars to market at a third of the price. All future McLarens will continue the themes presented by the 12C: innovation, integration of Formula 1 technology, and ultimate performance. In 2011 McLaren Automotive announced the launch of McLaren GT; a new race car manufacturer combining the expertise of McLaren Automotive, McLaren Racing, McLaren Electronic Systems, McLaren Applied Technologies and CRS Racing. McLaren GT is responsible for developing the first racing derivative of the 12C sports car, the MP4-

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2Ways

Motoring Tips By

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

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

Peaks on its back

street-legal version. Any well-meaning car lover worth his salt would die to have it. And it’s even got a very unassuming name: Magic Morning. We saw the “wild” version, if you will, in action and boy oh boy, it car can steal a heart. It’s fast. It’s mean. It’s everything. Thanks for featuring this lovely work of art. Amanda Ferrizan Muscat, Oman

Dear editor, Naming an exotic fast car after a New Zealand reptile, a descendant of the dinosaur even, adds flavor to the thrill, if you will, and not a bad idea at all, I must agree. Tuatara, which in New Zealander means “peaks on the back,” is a mean looking one just like the Shelby car, I’ve learned from your magazine and other materials. The car is actually in my bucket list and I’d love to see the day when I finally have one of those backs with a peak. Antonio Suarez Sevilla, Spain Dear Mr. Suarez, The car indeed looks awesome. Editor

SUVs

Meet the Dakar to uareg

A name chan some twea ge, king, and voila! Race becomes limit car edition stree ed t-legal at US$2 million

agic Morning, unveiled at the Second Qatar recent International Motor Show, has more to it than meets eye—defin the Apparently buoyed itely. by the success Volkswagen of the Race Rally, the GermanTouareg TDI at the 2009 Dakar automobile made history winning at the manufacturer, which race event in powered class, the has come up with a street-lega dieselfollowing much l version craving from new toys. the big boys wanting With a starting price of US$2 ny stock—Ka million—comparsten Jankowski , Volkswagen East marketing Middle director, told Car Xpress back the Doha motor at show that a very Magic Morning limited edition will be made, said. around 20 units, of he

Cover S tory A spec ial choic e for an

Salute

Dear editor Talk Maserati and an elegant sports car comes to mind. Not anymore. With the Kubang, as featured in your magazine’s latest edition, SUV just got a new segment and it’s called sport luxury SUV as your feature so aptly put it. Indeed, time was when SUV owners didn’t seem to M have that “uplifting” comfort. Again, not anymore. Ivan Biondi Dubai, UAE

Tamed

Dear editor, Now isn’t that something—a rally car converted into a

Dear Ms. Ferrizan, Word we got is that another version is on the woodworks. Editor

awesome read.

Custom-made

“Magic Morning is custom-made. on the Touareg It was based that went to the Dakar Rally,” Jankowski said. “It costs around just the basics.” 1.5 million euros for Jankowski said of Magic Morning that with a limited number out, services individualized will have to be thus, he said, “flying doctors,” of engineers actually, will a team be sent to the where the owner country stays with the checks and maintenan car for needed regular ce. Two of the fiveVolksw agen Race Touareg that ran in the Dakar TDIs in the two marathons Rally took top overall positions . The truck driven Villiers and Dirk Giniel de von Zitzewitz turing the first led to the finish Volkswagen ever overall win capmade motors vehicle in the for a diesel powered race. history by port winning the The Race Touaregs 2009 Rally with were powered cylinder diesel its clean diesel Dakar by 2.5L fiveengine basically Race Touare merly used in powered half of V10 TDI the production g TDI’s. this engine produces Touareg. In race fortrim 280 hp and The race event Slightly tamer was held in South 440 lb-ft of torque. 9,000 km route America covering Magic Morning from Buenos a Pacific Coast Aires, Argentina the Race Touareg; is a slightly tamer version in Chile and to the of back again. could very well the 228 kW/310 PS Volkswage be the world’s n legal SUV. The most talented streetTouareg Magic Morning, safe to say,

Tuata ra? serati

A New “peaks Zealand rep tile with on the back” just lik e this ca r 2

nG with KUba Goes sUV

carxpressmag.com

just pulling They’re not your leg

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

Dear Mr. Biondi, Like they say, they’re not just pulling your leg. The Kubang is as true as can be. Editor

Safety cage

This signature

is perfectly coordinate

d with its

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n few other At a time whe going in the brands were ry a sport luxu direction of was already erati Mas SUV, one. thinking to build

sport vehicle in the oila! A new Maserati segment. luxury SUV a natural direcThe car represents product to enlarge its tion for Maserati the sport its presence in range and strengthen the seem to offer luxury market. SUVs never and luxury atFor some reason driving pleasure today’s high-end of kind of uplifting should be staples gap, Maserati set mosphere that cars. Filling this concept. SUV sports and luxury sport luxury Middle out with its new which was revealed in the InThe Kubang, last year’s Dubai time during future East for the first Show, is forerunner of the by discontinuity ternational Motor creating at once by mainMaserati range, and continuity segment, DNA. entering a new of Maserati’s not SUV is naturally taining the integrity sport luxury the The idea of a will remember Maserati. Many totally new to that was unveiled at the Detroit other in which few Kubang concept luxury 2003. At a time in sport a of Show Auto direction going in the brands were

V 2

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Do you have something worth featuring? A Car, your Story or a Collection? CAR XPRESS WELCOMES YOU. 66

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How to avoid ‘flat spots’ If you are travelling this summer and would need to leave your car parked for some time at home, SilberArrows recommend that you inflate its tyres to a minimum of 40psi. This will prevent what is known as “flat spots,” which is quite common if you leave your vehicle stationary for prolonged periods. Flat spots can cause steering and body vibrations and, worse, could cost you a complete replacement of all your tyres. Also, park your vehicle in an underground car park, ideally in a space that is safe from traffic and other surrounding vehicle access. This will ensure that the likelihood of damage is reduced. Some people have less regard for an “abandoned” vehicle, therefore, the less people passing by your car, the better. Lastly, if you have the basic knowledge and tooling or can refer to a technician, disconnect your battery. This will preserve its charge and, in-turn, will enable an easier start on your return. Have a safe driving. SilberArrows, Dubai’s newest Independent Mercedes-Benz Service Centre, wishes you Ramadan Mubarak and Safe Travels this season.

vintage

Bucket list!

1924 Bugatti

Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion

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Car lovers across the world have this event on their calendar.

WENTY-seven historic stock cars and a celebration of Shelby Cobra’s 50th anniversary are what, among others, car lovers across the globe will be in for during this year’s Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion on Aug. 17 – 19 at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca on the beautiful Monterey Peninsula in California, USA. The annual event, which showcases cars rarely seen, will also have familiar brands like the Chevrolet Monte Carlo, Ford Thunderbird, Buick Regal, Pontiac Grand Prix, Oldsmobile Cutlass and Chevrolet Nova. Above the car doors, fans will recognize names such as Rusty Wallace, Dale Earnhardt, Darrell Waltrip, Ricky Rudd and Richard Petty. The group is limited to 1974-1990 stock cars with disc brakes and includes the 1988 Daytona

1939 Alfa Romeo 6C-2500SS

1916 National

1932 Alfa Romeo P3

VINTAGE ON PARADE. The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion is an annual event that started in 1974. It showcases rarely seen cars.

Stand-up comedian and TV host Jay Leno at the event. He is aslo known for his love of cars.

500-winning Buick Regal that was driven by Bobby Allison; Richard Petty’s 1979 season-winning Chevrolet Monte Carlo; and the 1989 Pontiac Grand Prix road car that Rusty Wallace used to capture the 1989 Winston Cup Championship. “This is the first year that such late-model stock cars have been invited to run at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion,” said Gill Campbell, CEO/general manager of Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, adding that in 2010, a group of 1959-1975 stock cars ran, which was highly popular with younger guests. “Our mission is to share the wealth and breadth of motorsports history with the thousands of guests who enjoy celebrating historic race cars. The younger audiences surely will recognize these stock cars that once competed at the country’s well-known speedways like Daytona

Photo credits: Rolex / Stephan Cooper.

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1915 Ford

and Talladega, and watching them navigate the tricky Corkscrew will be most entertaining.â&#x20AC;? The stock car group is one of 17 race groups at the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which this year celebrates the 50th anniversary of the Shelby Cobra. In honor of the anniversary and the late Carroll Shelby, a group of 45 Shelby Cobras that once competed in the 1960s will line up on the grid in what will be a thunderous start to their race.

Adding to the celebration will be many former employees of Shelby American and former colleagues of Carroll Shelby who are expected to be in attendance. Already, there are more than 200 Shelby Cobras committed to the Cobra Corral to complement the 45 competition cars entered in their race. The Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, which was first held in 1974 as the Monterey Historic Automobile Races, takes place over the course of one weekend every mid-August.

1953

Jaguar C-Type on the track

Most of the participants are amateurs. However, the Reunion has attracted professionals and celebrities. The annual event was first held in 1974 as a gathering of a small group of car enthusiasts

1931 Chrysler CD8

1962 Cobra

1965 Shelby GT350 1965 Huffaker

1965 Austin Mini Cooper

1961 Ferrari 250 SWB

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1939 BMW 328

carxpressmag.com

feature

125 years

of automotive history is in this building.

Tradition meets innovation

The Mercedes-Benz

Museum T

he Mercedes-Benz Museum is the only museum in the world that can document in a single continuous timeline over 120 years of auto industry history from its very beginnings to the present day. On nine levels and covering a floor space of 16,500 square metres, the museum presents 160 vehicles and over 1,500 exhibits. As a place of innovation, it also demonstrates that history can point the way ahead. The exhibition not only presents the fascinating history of the Mercedes-Benz brand, it also affords illuminating insights into the future. This dual function is also reflected in the architecture of the Mercedes-Benz Museum, designed by the UNStudio of Dutch architects van Berkel and Bos, Amsterdam. The building’s interior is inspired by the double helix structure of the DNA spiral that carries the human genome. This in turn illustrates the Mercedes-Benz brand’s philosophy of originality – to continuously create radically new products to advance the cause of human mobility. During a two-hour tour of the exhibition, visitors experience a unique journey through automotive history. Transported by lift to the uppermost level of the museum, the visitor arrives back in the year 1886, where two museum tours gradually spiral

their way down through the extensive collection and back to the museum exit. The first of the tours consists of seven Legend rooms which narrate the chronological history of the brand. The second tour groups the wealth of vehicles on display into five separate Collection rooms, which thematically document the breadth and diversity of the brand portfolio and collection. The visitor can switch from one tour to the other at any time. Both tours finish at the banked curve entitled Silver Arrows – Races & Records. The exhibition is rounded off by the Fascination of Technology display, which offers a glimpse into day-to-day work at Mercedes-

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Benz and also presents topics concerning the future of the automobile.

Legend and Collection

The exhibition at the Mercedes-Benz Museum is divided into Legend rooms and Collection rooms. The Legend rooms narrate the history of the Mercedes-Benz brand, dividing it into themes and epochs. The rooms are ordered chronologically and the exhibition is fully through-designed. The Collection rooms are arranged thematically and document the breadth and diversity of the brand’s vehicles. The Fascination of

Jan. 29, 1886 is known as the day on which the automobile was born. It was when Carl Benz received the patent for the world’s very first car. carxpressmag.com

The seven Legend rooms, which take visitors on a chronological journey through the history of the automobile to the present day, are each linked by 80-metre ramps. With the exception of the first and last rooms, the Legend tour is designed in line with a consistent principle: along the outside of a curved, clover-leaf wall, a ramp sweeps down to the vehicles, which form the focal point of each display. While visitors can look down at the exhibits to the right-hand side, a chronological display on their left illustrates key events in corporate history as seen against their specific historical backdrop. This gallery offers a striking illustration of the context in which epoch-making innovations in automotive engineering were made. Each Legend room illustrates a particular era by developing a central theme. These include the invention of the independent, petrol-driven road vehicle, the origin of the Mercedes brand, the development of the supercharger and diesel engine, the Gullwing and semi-forward control trucks of the 1950s, the increasing importance of safety and environmental protection, the drive technologies of the present and future, and in the final Legend room the complete history of racing and record-breaking cars.

The museum brings to life all aspects of car history over an area covering 16,500 sq. metres an on nine levels. Finale The museum tour eventually ends with a finale featuring innovations in automotive design

Where do we go from here? On the chronological tour, visitors are given presentations on the challenges of the present and the future. Different drive-system variants are on display--from the optimised combustion engine to elecric and hybrid and the fuel cell.

Over 160 vehicles and over 1,500 exhibits are showcased. 76

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motor sport

Summer of racing in Europe will keep Al Azhari sharp for next Porsche GT3 Cup test Family man Karim says his boys have made him faster, and he may not be able to stop them following him into motor racing

hile many of his rivals head for the gym this summer, Karim Al Azhari will be sharpening his driving skills on the race tracks of Europe as he looks to boost his assault on the Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East next season. Driving for Al Nabooda Racing, Al Azhari, one of the UAE’s most experienced racing drivers, made an immediate impact on the one-make series last

season, surprising even himself with two podium finishes after entering the 12-round championship at the half way stage. With the new season still several months away, he will be aiming to snatch an advantage over some of his main rivals during the summer months. “I believe the best preparation for racing is to spend as much time as you can in the car, both during the season and our off season between April and 78

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November,” said Al Azhari. “During the summer I go racing in Europe while other drivers spend time in the gym. That may make them fitter, but by the time the new season comes around I’ll be sharper as a driver. “This has always been one of my strengths. If I was out of racing for four months I’d be useless. I’m never out of a racing car for more than a few weeks at a time. That’s what keeps me at my top level.”

I believe there is a big chance they may finally find their way into motor sport.” If any of his sons do follow him into the cockpit of a racing car, they will do well to match his achievements with Dubai-based Al Nabooda Racing, the team he set up with Al Nabooda Automobiles set up seven years ago. Together they won the Gulf Radical Championship in 2005 and 2006 and then collected successive UAE GT racing titles in 2007, 2008 and 2009. Last season saw the team enter the exciting Porsche GT3 Cup Challenge Middle East, now firmly established as the region’s headline motor racing series. Despite starting his campaign halfway through the season, Al Azhari was quickly up to speed, notching his first podium place in Qatar in only his third race outing, and grabbing another third place finish during the final race weekend in Bahrain. “I honestly was very surprised, and excited, to achieve my first podium in my third race in Qatar,” he admits. “That was a big moment for me so soon into my first Porsche GT3 Cup series. “I have huge respect for the other drivers and know how much time and effort they have invested in the series over the last three years, and I felt it would take more time before I could expect to get on the podium.” “I really exceeded my expectations. This is a very challenging championship and I knew that the competition was going to be very strong, particularly as this was my first season and I was starting at the half way point. “As a new driver you have to accustom yourself with the car and tyre combination and this takes time. I was driving a Porsche GT3 Cup car for the first time, and taking everything into account, I was very pleased.” While other drivers take during things a little easier over the a break in on next few months, life in the fast lane continues for Al the race t Azhari.

Karim Al Azhari

Away from the track, Al Azhari devotes most of his time to his family, and Porsches. “I’ve been President of the Porsche Club in the UAE for 13 years and this takes up a lot of my spare time”, he confesses. “It’s a never ending process to plan where the club is going and I’m always planning the next step and preparing. I love collecting Porsches. I have eight, including four classic 911 Turbos. That’s a great passion for me. “Over the past few years my wife, Violetta, and I have been busy raising our three lovely young sons, Enzo (6), Keanu (4) and Adam (3). When not racing or looking after the Porsche Club, I’ve spent just about every bit of my time with them. “I try to keep them away from racing as much as possible to broaden their experiences in life, but

racks

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“In racing they say that when you have your first kid you slow down as a driver. But having three kids in the last six years has made me faster. Maybe I need to have some more kids.” “I’m competing in a series of races in Europe this summer at FIA GT3 level,” he says. “I’ve already done one race a few weeks ago in a Porsche at the Nurburgring where I finished on the podium. “The aim is to continue my advancement in motor sport internationally. Racing in Europe during the summer will also be beneficial for me in GT3 Cup terms because it will keep me sharp for the start of next season.” Saudi Arabia’s Abdulaziz Al Faisal will start the 2012-13 season as the favourite to retain the title he has won twice in the last three years, and Al Azhari knows he has a battle ahead of him. “Abdulaziz wll be starting as strong as he finished last season which makes it extremely tough for the rest of us,” he confesses. “From my point of view, I’ll be working very hard from the start and before the end of the season I should start reaping the benefits.” “Having had two podium finishes last season, the targets now are to get my first pole position and my first race victory in the Porsche GT3 Cup series. “To be realistic, there’s a lot of hard work to do before I can really expect to achieve those targets, but towards the end of next season I hope to be in a position to challenge.” Proud of his record to date, Al Azhari is determined to secure more honours to share with his family.

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.

The kind of view that makes you

Rolls Royce says it has no competition as it is the “pinnacle of automotive expression.”

want to take a photograph or two hundred.

Of course, Kevin Hughes doesn’t think so! Hughes, general manager of AGMC, importer of BMW and Mini for Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates, speaking on the recent launch of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé tells why. customer satisfaction. We keep our eyes open. I think these are keys for success.

Car Xpress: Let’s start with market share. Kevin Hughes: We have established the BMW brand. We got a strong market share. We had a really good year last year. This year as well, we are coming very strong. Sales are very much robust. Car Xpress: What’s the market’s response so far with the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé? Hughes: We’ve have the car here in our show room and we have been inviting VIPs, influential people and some small focus groups to come and look at the car. So far the car is very, very well received. We, in fact, already have a fantastic response. Car Xpress: What’s next? Hughes: We have spent time and effort and investment on our facility and our staff for customer satisfaction. I think we have the products. We keep investing on infrastructure. We keep investing on

Car Xpress: BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé is elegance in indulgence— very high-end. This car is BMW’s bid to be at par with the Rolls Royce? Hughes: (Laughs) To be very honest with you, we do our homework and the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé is the ultimate that we can do with a car. It is a fully individual car, very, very beautiful car. We do also have a starting price for the car at AED 360,000. Compared in the market, this car, with the price and equipment, etcetera, this car is very competitive. We obviously do our homework.

people who come and see the car, I’m sure they will make the correct decision. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupé is featured in this edition’s Executive Class section.

Urban beauty spot

Car Xpress: Will one prefer a BMW because of this car? Hughes: I think obviously our brand is a very strong brand. We have a very good car. For the individual people’s taste, it is up to them. But I am sure

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Abu Dhabi Motors, Abu Dhabi, UAE Tel: 00971 2 558 2400 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-abudhabimotors.com

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, Doha, Qatar Tel: 00974 44 20 8887 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-doha.com.qa

AGMC, Dubai, UAE Tel: 00971 4 339 1555 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-agmc.com

Ali Alghanim & Sons Automotive Co. WLL, Kuwait Tel: 00965 184 6464 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-kuwait.com

AGMC, Sharjah, UAE Tel: 00971 6 544 1111 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-agmc.com

Euro Motors, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain Tel: 00973 17 754 754 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-bahrain.bh

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors, Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel: 00966 2 664 1389 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-jeddah.com

Al Jenaibi Int’l Automobiles LLC, Muscat, Oman Tel: 00968 2 456 7108 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-oman.com

Mohamed Yousuf Naghi Motors, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Tel: 00966 1 465 1999 www.rolls-roycemotorcars-riyadh.com Every Rolls-Royce motor car is provided with a four year unlimited mileage warranty and service package. Terms and conditions apply.