Middle East Automotive News
FROM JAPAN TO QATAR
TOYOTA PRIUS DISCOVERING GREEN PLACES IN QATAR WITH
MITSUBISHI MONTERO
THIS MONTH ROAD TRIPS
MAQINA MAGAZINE QR20 - AED20 - $5
NISSAN PATROL GMC ACADIA INFINITI Q60
BMW M4 GTS TEST DRIVE
AT THE BMW DRIVING ACADEMY IN MUNICH
MAQINA LEADING A TRIBE ON
CLARKSON’S DRIVETRIBE
ISSUE 05 | NOVEMBER 2016
EDITORIAL Editor-in-Chief Adel Habib Founder/Managing Director Tarek Hawchar Associate Editor Adam Baeur Motoring Editors Liam Nelson, Stephan Lewis Advertising Manager Sidhart Saigal Creative Director Roman Khidko Creative Artist Hany Said Art Editor Viktor Blashuk Graphic Designer Aryo Pamungkas Photographers Natali Leonova, Malek Fayoumi Etiquette & Image Consultant Dr. Marie Abou Rached Contributing Editors Thomas Olsen, Nick Janes
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A WORD FROM OUR EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Dear Reader, In this edition of Maqina magazine, we’re kicking things off with a review of the hybrid vehicle which caused a lot of stir in the last decade or so, the Toyota Prius. We tested it in Qatar in order to understand it more, as well as the concept and idea behind it. You might be surprised by the outcome. We also visited the BMW Driving Academy in Munich where we drove the X4M as well as the M4 GTS. The sporty SUV is great, but the GTS is truly something special and unique. It’s certainly the best M4, but is it the best M-car ever built however? You’ll have to read the review to find out. Then, we’re back in Qatar, testing the Mitsubishi Montero in its natural habitat, the great, wild outdoors. That’s right, we took it on an adventure through some off-roading places, and we put it through its paces. It’s not the only road trip in this edition however. The GMC Acadia was tested thoroughly in the U.S., and the Nissan Patrol took us for an adventure through Oman too. Elsewhere, Maqina will be leading a tribe on Jeremy Clarkson’s DriveTribe, an online automotive social network completely unrelated to the new Grand Tour. Enjoy the issue,
ADEL HABIB
EDITOR -IN–CHIEF
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Starting from
79,900 QAR
10 FERRARI 488 PASSIONE ROSSA
CONTENTS 28
PORSCHE 911 GT3 CUP
56 PORSCHE CENTRE DONA
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10 NEWS
- FERRARI PASSIONE ROSSA - TOYOTA GAZOO RACING - MASERATI PARIS MOTOR SHOW - LAND ROVER DISCOVERY - PORSCHE 911 GT3 CUP
MEET THE CAR 78
- BMW M4 GTS - ROLLS-ROYCE WRAITH BLACK BADGE
STORY 82 COVER - Understanding Toyota Prius
40
ROLLS ROYCE BLACK BADGE
50 RANGE ROVER
82
UNDERSTANDING TOYOTA PRIUS
CONTENTS 92
92 CAR REVIEW -
BMW X4 M40i BMW M4 GTS Mitsubishi Montero S Jaguar XF
104
117 Road Trip BMW X4 M40I
99
- Infiniti Q60 - GMC Acadia - Nissan Patrol
132 Radar
- Merc’s Yachts
136 Gearbox -
BMW M4 GTS
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MITSUBISHI MONTERO S
111
Oakley Metalworks Carabiner Google Daydream View VR Richard Mille 63-02 El Primero Range Rover
138 Dashboard
- Driving Etiquette
JAGUAR RATED XF
NEWS FERRARI PASSIONE ROSSA / ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE TOYOTA GAZOO RACING / MASERATI PARIS MOTOR SHOW LAND ROVER DISCOVERY / PORSCHE 911 GT3 CUP
MIDDLE EAST & WORLDWIDE AUTOMOTIVE NEWS
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HES H S T I A E W L S N ION RI U T A O R M R E E F OF M U R T A S P EC
O I S S A P 8 8
A S S O R E N
4 E H T
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errari reaffirms its ability to unleash an unparalleled spectrum of emotions in people with the release of its 488 Passione Rossa video this month. Inspired by the passion, adrenaline and pure joy associated with the 488 range, the footage showcases the agility, responsiveness and breathless exhilaration of the 488GTB and 488 Spider, seen through the eyes of its guests experiencing a very special moment. On a cool night at the Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, UAE, Legendary Formula 1 Ferrari driver Giancarlo Fisichella takes a lucky group of Ferrari enthusiasts on an exhilarating track drive under the floodlights of the F1 venue. As he demonstrates the unrivalled power, speed and exhilaration that the Ferrari 488 is capable of, we see the passionate emotional response that only Ferrari can give, etched in the face of his passengers. Their expressions change rapidly from happiness to excitement to sheer disbelief, as they are left with a sense of wonder that lasts far beyond their latest driving session as the engine cools and the lights of the racetrack fade to black. The Ferrari 488 is the latest chapter in Maranello’s ongoing history of open-top V8 sports cars and is Ferrari’s most powerful ever mid-rear-engined V8 car to date. It combines supreme elegance with innovative technological advancement that renders it fast, agile and dynamic. No other car in the world unleashes such an emotional response from the driver, underlining the iconic status of the Prancing Horse stable. A true Passione Rossa.
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TOYOTA GAZOO RACING EARNS ITS FIRST VICTORY OF THE 2016 FIA WORLD ENDURANCE CHAMPIONSHIP AT ‘6 HOURS OF FUJI’ 14 ISSUE 5 / maqinaonline.com
NEWS
Home win lifts the #6 Toyota crew to second in the drivers’ World Championship
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oyota GAZOO Racing earned its first victory of the season on home ground in an epic 6 Hours of Fuji, the seventh round of the 2016 FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC).
In front of an enthusiastic Japanese crowd, all three LMP1 manufacturers showed near identical pace, but the TS050 Toyota Hybrid #6 of Stéphane Sarrazin, Mike Conway and Kamui Kobayashi came out on top after an enthralling battle.
The Toyota Hybrid #6 crossed the line just 1.439 seconds ahead of the competitor’s car #8, bringing Toyota’s 11th WEC win, its fourth in five years at Fuji and its first since Bahrain in November 2014. That result also lifts the Toyota Hybrid #6 crew to second in the drivers’ World Championship, 23 points off the lead. Anthony Davidson, Sébastien Buemi and Kazuki Nakajima recorded their best result of the season with fourth, within a minute of the winning sister car, TS050 Toyota Hybrid #5.
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Takayuki Yoshitsugu, Chief Representative, Middle East and North Africa Representative Office, Toyota Motor Corporation, commented: “This is a fantastic result for the team, and the fact that this triumph has come on our home ground makes it all the more special. Participation in motorsport events holds significant long-term business value for Toyota as we always seek to use insights and experiences gained from the track to build ever-better cars for our customers. Our fans have been amazing all through the season and I take this opportunity to thank them for their encouragement, and we look forward to their continued support in the season’s remaining two races in Shanghai and Manama.” The tone for a tense and closely-fought race was set at the start. Kamui and Kazuki, having slipped to fourth and sixth respectively at
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turn one, fought back, and at the first pit stops the Toyota Hybrid #6 was running second while the Toyota Hybrid #5 was fourth. Fast work from the pit crew established the pattern for the race, with the Toyota Hybrid #6, now with Mike at the wheel, in a very close fight for the lead with the competitor’s car #8, while Anthony in the Toyota Hybrid #5 was pushing for the podium. As the race passed the half-distance point, there was no letup as all three LMP1 manufacturers ran flat-out for victory in a tense contest, which got even closer when the competitor’s car #1 joined the battle. As the four-hour mark approached, less than two seconds covered the top three while the Toyota Hybrid #5 was less than 30 seconds from the lead in fourth, with Kazuki pushing for the podium positions.
NEWS
Stéphane enjoyed an exciting stint with wheel-to-wheel battles against competitor cars’ #8 and #1, all whilst coping with heavy traffic. When Kamui took over the Toyota Hybrid #6 with just over 90 minutes remaining, he kept up the challenge, valiantly defending second place before targeting the leader. The final stop for the Toyota Hybrid #6 saw Kamui take only fuel, saving vital time and earning track position but requiring him to maintain the pace on older tires. Kamui rose to the challenge during the tense final laps, with fine driving through the traffic. He crossed the line to win his first WEC race, while Anthony took the flag shortly after in the Toyota Hybrid #5. Toyota GAZOO Racing will return to action next month with the penultimate race of the 2016 season, the 6 Hours of Shanghai on 6 November.
RACE NOTES: TS050 Toyota Hybrid #6 (Stéphane Sarrazin, Mike Conway, Kamui Kobayashi) Race: 1st, 244 laps, 6 pit stops Fastest lap: 1min 25.320secs TS050 Toyota Hybrid #5 (Anthony Davidson, Sébastien Buemi, Kazuki Nakajima) Race: 4th, 244 laps, 6 pit stops Fastest lap: 1min 25.377secs
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MASERATI DEBUTS
THE NEW QUATTROPORTE AND GHIBLI MODEL YEAR 2017 AT PARIS MOTOR SHOW
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NEWS
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aserati’s focus for this year’s Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris, its on updates for its sedan range. The Trident brand’s executive sedan, the Ghibli, and the flagship, the new Quattroporte, adopt additional high-tech content in the area of on-board comfort and driver assistance systems and offer an even higher degree of customisation. While the Maserati flagship, the new Quattroporte, is being launched with an exterior restyling, both Model Year 2017 sedans benefit from substantial upgrades on the interior as well as new technical content. The central dashboard has been redesigned to accommodate a high resolution 8.4” screen with multi touch function. The new infotainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring functions. The design also features a new rotary button which controls the main functions. The new package of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems includes Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, Blind Spot Alert, Lane Departure Warning as well as Forward Collision Warning with Advanced Brake Assist and Automated Emergency Braking. An additional Surround View Camera is available in combination with the ADAS package.
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Both sedans have been upgraded also in terms of aero-acoustic comfort. Due to the adoption of new technologies, a significant improvement of noise insulation and reduced cabin noise have been achieved. To further improve occupants’ comfort, an Air Quality Sensor now comes as a standard. With the restyling of the Quattroporte, Maserati also launches a new range strategy to offer its highly demanding clientele the additional choice of two unique trim lines that emphasize the two key pillars of the brand’s DNA: GranLusso and GranSport. For the Ghibli, the Luxury and Sport packages personalise the exterior finish and create a customized environment for the driver and passengers. Also on display at the Maserati booth are Maserati’s SUV model, the Levante, as well as the GranTurismo and GranCabrio to complete the range. Maserati also showcases its latest apparel and accessory collections: the Contemporary Collection, the all-new urban line of Maserati Corse, the Maserati Classics Collection and the Officine Alfieri Maserati line. Maserati aficionados can explore all merchandising products of the House of the Trident on the new maseratistore.com.
NEWS
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FOLLOW THE LAND ROVER BRICK ROAD ALL-NEW DISCOVERY MAKES DEBUT ON GIANT LEGO TOWER BRIDGE
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and Rover has revealed the All-New Discovery seven-seat SUV by breaking a Guinness World Record for the largest LEGO structure ever built. Long-term Land Rover Discovery owners Bear Grylls, Sir Ben Ainslie and Zara Phillips took part in the dynamic live reveal of Land Rover’s most versatile model around a 13-metre high LEGO version of London’s Tower Bridge.
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ALL-NEW LAND ROVER DISCOVERY SHOWSITS UNRIVALLED CAPABILITYON GUINNESS WORLD RECORD-BREAKING LEGO STRUCTURE
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SHOW-STOPPING REVEAL FEATURESLAND ROVER CUSTOMERSBEAR GRYLLS, SIR BEN AINSLIE AND ZARA PHILLIPSMBE
The All-New Discovery embodies Land Rover’s drive to go Above and Beyond, combining British desirability with an unstoppable spirit of adventure. It is highly desirable with unrivalled capability and technology like no other.
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FULL-SIZE SEVEN-SEAT VERSATILITY DEMONSTRATED BY SIR BEN AINSLIE AND LAND ROVER BAR SAILING TEAM, THE BRITISH CHALLENGER FOR THE 35TH AMERICA’S CUP
Gerry McGovern, Land Rover’s Chief Design Officer, said: “All-New Discovery redefines the large SUV. Land Rover’s design and engineering teams have revolutionised the Discovery DNA to create a highly desirable, extremely versatile and hugely capable premium SUV.”
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LONDON’S TOWER BRIDGE MADE FROM 5,805,846 LEGO BRICKS, BEATING PREVIOUS RECORD BY 470,646PIECES
Everyday ingenuity has been at the heart of the Discovery for the last 27 years, with more than 1.2 million customers to date. The All-New Discovery is for the digital age. Ingenious technology keeps your family safe, connected and confident on all surfaces, all terrains and in all weathers to ensure your destination is reached.
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FOR FULL DETAILS ON THE NEW LAND ROVER DISCOVERY VISIT WWW.MEDIA.LANDROVER.COM
The fifth-generation model benefits from Land Rover’s strong, safe and light full-size SUV architecture, delivering comfort and adaptability like no other. The reveal set was made from 5,805,846 individual LEGO bricks, breaking the previous Guinness World Record by 470,646 pieces. Laid end to end, the bricks would stretch for almost 200 miles, or from Tower Bridge in London to Paris.
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Led by the UK’s only LEGO Certified Professional, Duncan Titmarsh, it took five months for expert LEGO Master Builders in the UK to construct the incredible Tower Bridge structure. It was erected in the grounds of Packington Hall, Warwickshire, UK – close to Land Rover’s Solihull plant, where All-New Discovery will be produced. As part of the dramatic reveal sequence, British adventurer Bear Grylls appeared in typically exciting fashion by abseiling from the top of the huge Tower Bridge installation, through the open drawbridge and onto the stage beside the All-New Discovery. The finale was Land Rover BAR Team Principal Sir Ben Ainslie driving his sailing team through 900mm-deep water under the bridge – demonstrating the unrivalled capability and versatility of Land Rover’s new SUV. Sir Ben towed a LEGO replica of the Land Rover BAR boat, a 186,500-brick meticulous model of the boat that will challenge for next year’s America’s Cup. The model of Tower Bridge was flanked by two LEGO ‘Discovery Zones’ celebrating 27 years of Land Rover Discovery heritage. An Equestrian Zone, hosted by accomplished rider Zara Phillips, featured a typically British picnic scene made entirely from LEGO bricks. The Bear Grylls Adventure Zone included a LEGO fire and boulders to represent a scene from a typical mountain exploration.
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NEWS
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All-New Discovery represents the next step in Land Rover’s journey of transformation from cogs to code and is designed, engineered and manufactured with the help of some of the 1,300 talented young engineers currently on the company’s leading training programmes. Jaguar Land Rover is one of UK’s leading recruiter of graduates and apprentices: 3,000 have joined in the past six years and 400 new recruits have just started on the 2016 intake. Bear Grylls said: “I have developed a powerful bond with Land Rover vehicles over the years and to me they embody that spirit of adventure coupled with a rugged reliability that also serves the needs of a young
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family. The Land Rover Discovery is invaluable on expeditions, whether filming in deserts, jungles or mountains, yet it’s still the perfect vehicle for the family’s everyday use. It’s a proud moment to be here with Land Rover revealing the All-New Discovery to the world.” Emma Owen, LEGO UK and Ireland Spokeswoman, said: “We are thrilled that Jaguar Land Rover has used LEGO bricks to add some Guinness World Record-breaking creativity to the launch of the latest Discovery. This is an epic, outstanding build that absolutely captures the imagination in a way we haven’t seen before. With LEGO bricks and some imagination you really can build anything!”
NEWS
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NEW EDITION OF THE WORLD’S BEST-SELLING RACING CAR
PORSCHE 911 GT3 CUP
WITH ULTRA-MODERN DRIVE
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NEWS
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ubai. Boasting a completely redeveloped drive, the Porsche 911 GT3 Cup will take to the starting line on the world’s race tracks from 2017. The rear of the world’s most-produced GT racing car now houses a 4-litre, six-cylinder flat engine for even more drive. Thanks to thoroughbred motorsport technology, the compact engine with direct fuel injection delivers peak performance of 485 hp (357 kW).
has been retained from the predecessor model, whilst wheel dimensions are also unchanged: One-piece 18-inch racing rims with a central locking mechanism are combined with 270-millimetre Michelin racing slicks on the front axle, and a 310-millimetre tread on the rear axle. The intelligent aluminiumsteel composite construction ensures maximum rigidity and a lightweight body. Weighing in at just 1200 kilograms, the new 911 GT3 Cup is ready to race.
A range of innovative details also improve efficiency in addition to engine performance, ensuring even better durability of the naturally aspirated engine in racing mode and re-duced maintenance costs. A valve drive with rigidly mounted rocker arms and a central oil feed is being used for the very first time. What’s more, an integrated oil centrifuge is used to optimise oil defoaming in the engine. A crankshaft with significantly increased rigidity has also been installed.
The engineers have also once again focused specifically on driver safety during devel-opment. The driver is protected by a solid safety cage and an innovative, bucket-style racing seat that is moulded particularly heavily around the head and shoulder area. The enlarged rescue hatch in the roof, in line with the latest FIA standard, makes it easier to provide initial treatment and recovery following an accident.
A new front apron and a new rear end improve the downforce of the new 911 GT3 Cup and therefore enhance traction and performance. The prominent 184-centimetre wide rear wing
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Porsche manufactures the 911 GT3 Cup on the same production line as the 911 road car in its plant at Stuttgart-Zuffenhausen. The basic race tuning is performed at the Weissach motorsport centre, where vehicles are also thoroughly tested by a profes-sional race driver prior to delivery to the customer. Some 3031 units of the 911 GT3 Cup have been built in the 996, 997 and 991 model lines since 1998, making the Stuttgart based manufacturer’s cup racing car the most-produced and most-sold GT racing model in the world. The new 911 GT3 Cup will be used in the 2017 race season, initially exclusively in the Porsche Mobil 1 Supercup, which is held alongside
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the Formula 1 races, and in the Porsche Carrera Cup Deutschland, as well as in North America. As of 2018, the car will also be available for the other brand cups. In total, Porsche is organising 20 of these race series for customer teams around the world, with the 911 GT3 Cup being used ex-clusively. The 911 GT3 Cup is now available for order via the Porsche Motorsport department in Weissach to customers participating in a Porsche race series, including the 2017/18 winter season GT3 Challenge Cup Middle East.
NEWS
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The New
BMW 5 Series Sedan LIGHTER, MORE DYNAMIC, MORE ECONOMICAL AND FULLY CONNECTED.
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he seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series Sedan will cut a sporty, elegant and stylish figure when it hits the roads in markets around the world in February 2017. Further enhanced dynamics, an unbeatable line-up of assistance systems, an unmatched degree of connectivity and a new and innovative operating system are the most important new features. The new BMW 5 Series Sedan therefore has all the tools it needs to continue the remarkable success recorded by its predecessors; more than 7.6 million BMW 5 Series cars were sold across its first six generations. “The seventh generation of the BMW 5 Series points the way into the future, as we have defined it with our NUMBER ONE > NEXT strategy. We see technological leadership, emotionally rich products and digitalisation as essential factors in achieving success. With the expansion of our model portfolio in the large-vehicle classes, we are satisfying the wishes of many customers. I’m in no doubt that the new BMW 5 Series will set new benchmarks technologically, but also have huge emotional appeal. It remains the epitome of the business sedan,” says Harald Krüger, Chairman of the Board of Management at BMW AG. Superior driving pleasure and unsurpassed aerodynamics. Rigorous application of the BMW EfficientLightweight lightweight design concept, with increased use of aluminium and high-strength steels, reduces the weight of the 5 Series Sedan by up to 100 kilograms from that of its predecessor. The newly designed chassis, a low
centre of gravity, BMW’s hallmark even weight distribution and a lightweight body offering exceptional torsional stiffness combine a wonderfully dynamic driving experience with the long-distance comfort for which the BMW 5 Series is renowned. Various chassis options such as Integral Active Steering, which can now be teamed with xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive, add further talents to a dynamics-focused overall package designed to ensure the BMW 5 Series once again stands at the top of its class. The drag coefficient of the new, 4,935 millimetre-long BMW 5 Series Sedan (Cd = 0.22 at its most efficient) sets the benchmark in its class. The next step to automated driving. A wealth of assistance systems are on hand in the new BMW 5 Series to offer the driver unbeatable support – not only at critical moments but also in less demanding situations at the wheel, such as traffic jams, slowmoving traffic and monotonous stretches of motorway. To this end, it is fitted as standard with a stereo camera, which teams up with optional radar and ultrasound sensors to monitor the area around the car. New features in the BMW 5 Series alongside the evasion aid and Crossing traffic warning are the Lane Change Assistant and Lane keeping assistant with active side collision protection. The latter keeps an eye on the lane markings and the area around the car, and actively helps the driver to avoid looming collisions by applying corrective steering inputs.
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The BMW 5 Series also takes another step towards automated driving with extended functions for the optional Active Cruise Control (ACC) system and Steering and Lane keeping assistant. These include adoption of speed restrictions, which the optional Intelligent Speed Assist communicates to the cruise control system (the driver can adjust this figure by +/– 15 km/h / 9 mph). From rest to 210 km/h (130 mph), the car can relieve the driver of acceleration, braking and steering duties, as desired. The intelligent Auto Start Stop function now adjusts its responses to the route and traffic conditions and therefore offers even greater driving comfort. Intuitive usability and extensive comfort. With even greater user-friendliness as its goal, the new BMW 5 Series is equipped with the latest-generation iDrive system. In top specification, it displays navigation, telephone and entertainment features, plus vehicle functions, on a high-resolution 10.25inch screen. The system can be operated using the iDrive Controller, by voice command or gestures, or by touching the display controls directly, as the driver wishes. The large, tile-style panels can be arranged as desired and show the content of the underlying menus in constantly updated form. The latest-generation full-colour BMW Head-Up Display has a projection surface that is 70 per cent larger than before and displays traffic signs, telephone listings, radio stations, music tracks, navigation instructions and warnings from the assistance systems.
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NEWS Maximising the levels of on-board comfort are extended storage options, greater legroom for rear-seat passengers and comfort seats with massage function, not to mention innovative seat operation using touch sensors and four-zone climate control complete with ionisation and discreet air fragrancing. Special Synergy Thermoacoustic Capsule (SYNTAK) engine encapsulation technology, the acoustic glazing for the windscreen and the acoustic headliner bring about another noticeable reduction in noise levels inside the car. All headlight variants specified for the BMW 5 Series Sedan come as standard with LED technology. Available as an option are Adaptive LED Headlights with variable light distribution including adaptive roundabout lights and BMW Selective Beam anti-dazzle high beam with a range of up to 500 metres.
Personalized content through BMW Connected Onboard. BMW Connected, the personal digital mobility assistant from BMW, has been available in Europe since July 2016. The next development stage of the system, complete with additional services, is set to be introduced with the new BMW 5 Series. BMW Connected Onboard gives drivers an overview of their mobility-related information. Relevant content such as the upcoming navigation destinations and estimated arrival time recorded in their personal mobility agenda are transferred seamlessly into the car from their smartphone and displayed on the personalised screen. Remote 3D View allows drivers to call up three-dimensional views of the area around their car on their smartphone while on the move. And that means they need never lose sight of their car.
Advanced link-up of man, machine and environment. The new BMW 5 Series also offers a compelling proposition in terms of connectivity. Extensive BMW ConnectedDrive features are joined by new services which lavish business travellers with extra comfort and save them time. These include the new ParkNow technology for digital parking space reservation and payment, the On-Street Parking Information intelligent parking space search function and the optional Parking Assistant, which detects empty spots and parks the vehicle automatically. Plus, the Microsoft Exchange service now enables Microsoft Office 365 users to sync emails, calendar entries and contacts and edit them inside their car. Meanwhile, the optional Remote Parking system allows the BMW 5 Series Sedan to be manoeuvred into even the tightest parking spaces remotely using the car key. And smartphone integration has been further improved – from Apple CarPlay (which, in a first for a carmaker, has been incorporated fully wirelessly), to inductive phone charging and the WiFi hotspot for up to ten devices.
BMW 530i and BMW 540i: the new petrol engines. All the engines in the 5 Series Sedan line-up belong to the newly developed, modular BMW EfficientDynamics family of power units. BMW TwinPower Turbo technology imbues all the members of the family with outstanding performance combined with exceptional efficiency. Two diesel engines and two petrol variants will be available from launch, working in tandem with either rear-wheel drive or BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive. The new two-litre four-cylinder in-line engine in the BMW 530i develops peak torque of 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) and maximum output of 185 kW/252 hp. Its fuel consumption in the combined cycle comes in at 5.4 litres/100 km (52.3 mpg imp)*, which means CO2 emissions of 126 g/km – down more than 11 per cent on its predecessor’s figures. The BMW 530i accelerates from 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.2 seconds on its way to a top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph).
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The flagship engine at launch will be the 250 kW/340 hp unit under the bonnet of the new BMW 540i. This three-litre straightsix produces torque of 450 Nm (332 lb-ft). Despite its extra output and sharper dynamic edge, average fuel consumption stands at only 6.5 l/100 km (43.5 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions are kept to just 150 g/km*. In xDrive guise, the BMW 540i powers from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in a mere 4.8 seconds. BMW 520d and BMW 530d: the new diesel engines. The four-cylinder diesel engine powering the BMW 520d develops 140 kW/190 hp and peak torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 4.1 l/100 km (68.9 mpg imp)* and 108 g/km with the manual gearbox specified or 4.0 l/100 km (70.6 mpg imp)* and 107 g/km with the eight-speed Steptronic transmission. The sedan accelerates from 0 - 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.6 seconds (Steptronic). Top speed is 237 km/h (147 mph). The new BMW 530d likewise does a nice line in dynamics and efficiency. Producing 195 kW/265 hp and peak torque of 620 Nm (457 lb-ft), the six-cylinder in-line unit is clearly superior to the equivalent model in the outgoing range. And yet the BMW
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530d also makes do with average fuel consumption of 4.5 l/100 km (62.8 mpg imp)* and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km – an approximately 13 per cent improvement on its predecessor. The new BMW 530d races from 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 5.7 seconds, and on to an electronically governed 250 km/h (155 mph). The CO2 champion, the plug-in hybrid and the eight-cylinder sports star. Not long after the launch of the new 5 Series Sedan, BMW will be adding another three engine variants to the line-up. The 140 kW/190 hp four-cylinder diesel engine will be presented in its most efficient form in the BMW 520d EfficientDynamics Edition with eight-speed Steptronic. Its CO2 emissions of just 102 g/km are the lowest in the sedan’s class (average fuel consumption: 3.9 l/100 km [72.4 mpg imp]*). Also to come in March 2017 is a BMW 5 Series Sedan with plug-in hybrid drive system, in the form of the BMW 530e iPerformance. The combination of the BMW eDrive electric drive concept and a four-cylinder petrol engine produces extremely low CO2 emissions of just 46 g/km (2.0 l/100 km)*. System output is 185 kW/252 hp.
NEWS
* Fuel consumption figures were calculated according to the EU test cycle and may vary depending on the tyre format specified. Some figures are provisional. In March 2017 the BMW M550i xDrive will take over as the sporting highlight of the new BMW 5 Series range, for the time being at least. Its V8 engine – developing 340 kW/462 hp and 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque – impresses not only with its remarkable performance but also when it comes to efficiency (fuel consumption, combined: 8.9 l/100 km [31.7 mpg imp], CO2 emissions 204 g/km*). The BMW M550i xDrive dispatches the 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint in 4.0 seconds. Patrick Little, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Automotive, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. “As a co-founder of the 5GAA Alliance, Qualcomm Incorporated looks forward to continuing our work with world leading stakeholders to foster further collaborations between the automotive and communications industries and help ensure the optimization of new technologies for transportation. For more than a decade, Qualcomm Incorporated has been committed to the development of connectivity and compute solutions that enhance the safety, mobility and convenience of the traveling public. Our LTE Advanced, Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) and 5G-NR technologies will play a key role in improving safety and enabling automated driving.”
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MAQINA LEADING A TRIBE ON
CLARKSON’S DRIVETRIBE
Launched autumn 2016, Drivetribe will be the place people who love cars can call home. Whatever your passion, be it drifting and monster trucks, aircooled 911s and classic ferraris, or even motorcycles… you’ll find a tribe that fits. Hosted by Clarkson, Hammond, May along with global content providers like Maqina, it’s set to become the largest digital motoring platform online, a supercharged destination for anything and everything that has wheels. The new venture will be a perfect compliment to Maqina’s Middle East focused motoring content, created with the user experience firmly in mind. What are you waiting for? Join now
www.drivetribe.com
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NEWS
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ROLLS-ROYCE BLACK BADGE GENERATES EXCITEMENT FOR THE FIRST TIME AT THE LOSAIL CIRCUIT IN QATAR
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olls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, the sole authorised dealership for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Qatar, unveiled Black Badge Wraith and Ghost to its discerning clientele during a track event that took place on November 11th & 12th at the Losail International Circuit. Commenting on the event, Ihab Allam, General Manager at Alfardan Automobiles said: “It was a great honour for us to host such an exclusive event for our loyal customers and supportive media to showcase the latest masterpiece that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has to offer. As a brand synonymous with luxury, the Black Badge concept presented by Rolls-Royce Motor Cars resonates well with a wide range of our clientele, as it complements their outgoing and edgy lifestyle.” Black Badge is a new facet of the ultra-luxury marque’s personality, a dark and edgy lifestyle statement. A permanent new sub-brand, Black Badge was unveiled earlier this year at the Geneva Motor Show and transforms the character of both Ghost and Wraith. The new sub-brand is expected to appeal to those people who are elusive and defiant, the risk takers and disruptors who break the rules and laugh in the face of convention. It is in this spirit that Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has announced that Black Badge ‘Inspired by dark edgy lifestyle’, is now available to order from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, the sole authorised dealership for Rolls-Royce Motor Cars in Qatar. 42 ISSUE 5 / maqinaonline.com
Brett Soso, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Regional Director for Middle East, Africa, Central Asia & South America commented on the reveal of Black Badge by saying, “Following the launch of Wraith in 2013, many of our new customers have gravitated towards the revitalised Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, as the brand most capable of encapsulating their truly individual lifestyles. Through the introduction of Black Badge, we are able to further satisfy the demands of these new customers for a more dark and assertive Ghost and Wraith, to suit their personalities and lifestyles and offer the most commanding presence on the super-luxury landscape.” New material accents and tonalities are combined to accommodate the tastes of those fast-moving customers who adopt a strident approach to life’s finer challenges. With this manifesto as their departure point, Rolls-Royce designers, engineers and craftspeople set to work transforming Ghost and Wraith in subtly different ways. Their intent was to deliver darker, more assertive and more focused Black Badge alter egos that differ from each other as much as they do from their siblings. The result is Ghost Black Badge and Wraith Black Badge. Black Badge is known as the ultimate in pure luxury style and engineering substance.
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Giles Taylor, Director of Design, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars commented, “In creating Black Badge, we were conscious of satisfying the different demands of these new customers. Not only did they demand an alternative image for themselves, they demanded authentic Rolls-Royce engineering substance to underpin it. As a result, the Black Badge Spirit manifests itself through a series of carefully considered design elements which together express a darker luxury sophistication. New material accents and tonalities are combined to accommodate the tastes of those fast-moving customers who adopt a strident approach to life’s finer challenges.” It was vital to us that the aesthetic appeal and promise of Black Badge Ghost and Black Badge Wraith be underpinned by superlative engineering. The cars could not be the same as each other while at the same time, they had to offer their owners something subtly yet substantively different from the host cars, delivering a more spirited and exhilarating drive but in a truly Rolls-Royce manner.”
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Black Badge will bring the colour black to new levels of intensity. The multiple layers of paint and lacquer that go into creating Black Badge Black are repeatedly hand polished – the most exacting painting and polishing process ever used for a solid paint colour. The result is the deepest, darkest and most intense black ever seen on a production car surface. The centrepiece of the Black Badge cabin is the aerospace-grade aluminium-threaded carbon fibre composite surfacing – material often seen on the surfaces of stealth aircraft. This futuristic material has been reinterpreted at Goodwood to become the world’s most innovative new superluxury material. The launch of Black Badge further demonstrates Rolls-Royce Motor Car’s true luxury credentials as the world’s leading super-luxury brand. Now available to order from Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Doha, this new sub-brand will meet the demands of its discerning clientele and attract a younger and yet confident customer to the marque.
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Auto Future Tech and Alfardan Motorcycles inaugurate the first Sales, Service and Spare parts Complex in Al Khor ALFARDAN GROUP SUBSIDIARIES TO RAISE THE STANDARDS IN CUSTOMER CARE AND AFTER-SALES SERVICE IN THE COUNTRY
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lfardan Group has recently inaugurated a new Service Complex consisting of a Service Centre and a Used Cars and Motorcycles showroom for Auto Future Tech and Alfardan Motorcycles in the city of Al Khor. The new service centre and showroom are strategically located at the entrance of Al Khor city to help cater to customers from both Doha and Al Khor cities, with state-of-the-art facilities and an experienced and competent personnel who will address the different and unique needs of the customers. The Service Complex reflect the Group’s tireless efforts to create new benchmarks of excellence in customer care and after-sales service in line with the Group’s growth strategy. The contemporary Complex for Auto Future Tech and Alfardan Motorcycles, which are distinct in their specializations, is set to be among the biggest After-Sales Service and Spare Parts Centres in Qatar and with the showroom, displaying an outstanding range of used cars and motorcycles, it constitutes the first Triple-S facility in the city. The centres will also be equipped with a modern entertainment zone, an addition particularly rewarding to the customers that are there for extended periods of time.
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Omar Alfardan, President and CEO of Alfardan Group said, “The success of Alfardan Group is founded on its commitment to provide our clients with unparalleled customer service. We are always trying to push the boundaries and explore innovative ways that can better serve the community according to the best practices and the highest standards.” Alfardan added: “We are confident that the new service complex will provide the highest level of service excellence for our valued clients. We have always developed our strategies in line with the vision of H.H Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani, Emir of Qatar and the Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to establish the country as one of the premier business hubs within the region. As such, we remain steadfast in our efforts to enhance the local automotive sector and help bring it to unprecedented heights. Looking forward, Alfardan Group will continue to sustain its leadership in the industry by consistently providing exceptional and unmatched services to its valued clients. The Auto Future Tech and Alfardan Motorcycle Service complex reflects our longterm growth strategy to lead in quality and luxury service.”
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The Auto Future Tech Service Centre, will focus on Sales, Service and Spare Parts for all vehicle brands in Qatar. It will house Continental’s full range of tires, which was developed according to the highest standards to adapt to various road conditions. It will also have Castrol’s latest generation of automotive lubricants, as well as a full range of professional auto services provided by a skilled and competent staff. The new Alfardan Motorcycles Service Centre will also feature a triple “S” -Sales, Service, and Spare Parts facility-, with a large working space equipped with the latest technology, a team of highly experienced technicians, qualified in working with specialized brands such as Ducati, KTM, Triumph, BMW Motorrad, Piaggio, Vespa, Aprilia, Moto Guzzi, Arctic Cat and Sand X and individual pit boxes available for each of these brands. First-time customers will also be offered a Dyno machine to ensure the precise measures and statistics of bike power. In a similar fashion, the used cars and motorbikes state-of-the-art showroom, comprising a luxurious reception area and customer lounge, was designed according to the highest standards of quality and is managed by a committed and knowledgeable team of sales consultants. The complex has a strategic and easily accessible location to ensure convenience for customers. This plays an important role in the Group’s continued efforts to provide unparalleled services to its loyal clientele. As part of Alfardan’s active expansion plans, these service centres reflect the Group’s commitment to always serve the best interests of the community.
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AAB the Main Official Sponsor of the 11th Milipol Qatar 2016
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nder the auspices of HH the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, the 11th international exhibition of homeland security (Milipol Qatar) was launched on Monday 31 October at the Doha exhibition center and will last for 3 days. This exhibition, being unique of its kind in the Middle East region, is organized each two years in rotation between Paris and Doha and displays the latest innovations of leading manufacturers in the field of homeland security.
to the society by supporting the Government in their various initiatives be it Sports, Educational, Exhibitions, philanthropic etc. Moreover, Ministry of Interior who are the organizers of Milipol Exhibition is one of the biggest customers who has Toyota vehicles in their fleet. Majority of the vehicles that are sold to Qatar Armed Forces as well as other Security Forces are Land Cruiser Station Wagons. Land Cruiser is a true go anywhere, all-terrain four-wheel drive SUV that has always exceeded expectations all around the globe. It offers elegance and sophistication while being tough and practical. Land Cruiser reaffirms a tradition of quality and advanced technology. During a press conference held on May 24, 2016, Mr. Osama Abdullah Abdulghani – Chairman, Said” I am very pleased to welcome you all to this Press Conference jointly organized by the Milipol Qatar Committee and Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. W.L.L.
His Excellency Sheik Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Qatar Prime Minster Inaugurated the exhibition. Mr. Salman Abdullah Abdulghani attended the inauguration ceremony beside Mr. Serdar Toktomis AAB CEO beside Senior Manager of AAB.
The Milipol Qatar Exhibition needs no introduction to you as it is the leading international exhibition of Internal State Security, Law Enforcement and Defense Equipment. Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co., the sole agents for Toyota and Lexus vehicles in Qatar is also very familiar name to the people in our country.
In Connection with the Milipol Mr. Serdar stated “Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros. Co. (AAB) is the exclusive agent for Toyota & Lexus vehicles in the State of Qatar. Toyota & Lexus are the Market Leaders in the Automobile sector. Being the Automotive Market Leaders, AAB always feels the responsibility as a Corporate Citizen to give back
We, at AAB were extremely privileged and honored to sponsor, in a significant manner, all the Milipol Qatar events since 1996. I would like to congratulate Sheikh Nasser Bin Fahed Al-Thani, President of Milipol Qatar Committee, on this 11th Anniversary edition of Milipol Qatar which will be held from 31 October – 2 November 2016.
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We have always looked forward to the future and always been keen in nurturing our corporate mission to maintain the No. 1 position in the automobile business in Qatar. Being the market leaders, it has been our rich tradition to support major Government sponsored events in the country. With a record of over 50 years of service in Qatar, our name has become a synonym for customer loyalty and we are pleased to enhance our corporate history with this sponsorship. AAB will be having a booth measuring 326 m2 at the Exhibition Center where we will be displaying our vehicles which are currently used by various ministries. We are also providing a fleet of Toyota and Lexus vehicles for the transportation of Officials. For our support, we have been awarded the status of ‘Main Official Sponsor’ with Toyota and Lexus vehicles designated as the ‘Official Cars’ for the event. We are extremely grateful to be associated with this prestigious event. We wish to thank our beloved rulers and the Government for their support and the Milipol Qatar authorities for giving us the opportunity to sponsor such important event. We hope that the wonderful relationship we have been enjoying with the Ministry of Interior will further flourish in the years to come.
We take this opportunity to once again thank our beloved rulers H.H. the father Emir, Sheikh Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, H.H. the Emir, Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Bin Khalifa Al-Thani for leading the country to one of the most prosperous country in the world.
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ELEVATED PERFORMANCE AND DESIRABILITY FOR 2017 RANGE ROVER
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and Rover has reinforced Range Rover’s status as the world’s finest SUV with the introduction of an all-new model from Special Vehicle Operations (SVO) – the Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic.
Since it redefined the luxury SUV sector more than 46 years ago, Range Rover has achieved more than one million sales and sits at the pinnacle of the Land Rover family. The SVAutobiography Dynamic is the most powerful production Range Rover ever, and is powered by a 550PS V8 supercharged engine which is shared with the acclaimed Range Rover Sport SVR. The engine has been specifically calibrated for the flagship Range Rover and delivers 680Nm of torque, powering the Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic from 0-100km/h in only 5.4 seconds. It is paired with ZF’s eight-speed automatic transmission for seamless gear changes and supreme performance.
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Building on the successful launch of the long-wheelbase Range Rover SVAutobiography, the Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic is available exclusively in standard wheelbase specification and comes fitted with specially configured suspension designed to optimise agility without compromising Range Rover’s trademark refinement and comfort. Commenting on the introduction of the New Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic, Rabih Ataya, General Manager of Jaguar Land Rover’s exclusive retailer in the State of Qatar, Alfardan Premier Motors, added: “The new SVAutobiography Dynamic is taking the flagship Range Rover to even greater heights of design, sophistication and performance to further solidify this SUV as the world’s most luxurious and capable vehicle. The Range Rover has been an iconic favourite in this region since its birth and the Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic has been very quick to follow suit. In high demand since launch and quick to turn heads all around the world, we are very excited to finally give our loyal Land Rover customers in Qatar the chance to place their orders and get their hands on this stunning vehicle. Order books are now open exclusively through our showrooms and we are confident the positive response for this powerful Land Rover product will continue to grow from customers and car enthusiasts across Qatar.”
The interior takes Range Rover to new heights of desirability and refinement. Diamond quilted leather seats with contrast stitching are available in four exclusive colourways, which complement the Ebony perforated leather headliner, giving an immediate impression of luxury. The front fascia and door casings feature a Grand Black veneer, with an additional Red keyline finish on the door casings.
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Changes also include a new larger 10-inch dual view touchscreen display, powered by Land Rover’s market-leading InControl Touch Pro system. The pinch and zoom tablet-style touchscreen provides a host of new features including customisable homepages, enhanced satellite navigation functions and instant access to the driver’s favourite apps. The new addition to the range is identified by a series of unique exterior features. The side vents, bonnet finisher, grille, front bumper accents, Range Rover script and tailgate finisher are all finished in Graphite Atlas. Customers have a choice of 21 and 22-inch alloy wheel designs, as well as three unique finishes. Jaguar Land Rover’s SVO division has fine-tuned the suspension to achieve the optimum combination of performance and comfort.
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Revisions to the knuckles, links, springs and dampers provide a lower ride height (8mm lower than standard) and more immediate responses. The Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic also features two driverfocused technologies designed to deliver improved body control and agility. Dynamic Response improves vehicle handling and occupant comfort by reducing the amount of body lean during cornering. The system controls the front and rear axles independently, delivering increased low-speed agility, superior high-speed stability and greater steering precision. Adaptive Dynamics monitors vehicle movements up to 500 times a second, reacting to driver inputs and changes in the road surface to provide greater control without compromising Range Rover’s peerless refinement.
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In keeping with its more purposeful character, the Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic features bright chrome quad tailpipes that have been optimised to enhance its distinctive V8 soundtrack. Orders for the new Range Rover SVAutobiography Dynamic are now accepted exclusively at Alfardan Premier Motors showrooms in Qatar.
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T TAG HEUER
RETURNS TO CYCLING WITH BMC RACING TEAM CLOSING A 20-YEAR HIATUS!
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oday in Doha (Qatar), on the eve of the UCI Road World Championship 2016, at a press conference held at the St Regis Hotel, TAG Heuer CEO Jean Claude Biver announced the brand’s return to the world of international professional cycling. Closing a hiatus of more than 20 years, TAG Heuer is joining forces with BMC Racing Team represented at the press conference by owner Andy Rihs and Jim Ochowicz, the team’s President and General Manager.
Jean-Claude Biver, CEO of TAG Heuer and President of the Watch Division of the LVMH Group states: “Cycling is a universal, international, popular sport that transcends all age groups. This is an exciting project that is very dear to my heart and one we see as a long-term investment with my good friend Andy Rihs whom I’ve known for twenty-five years. The team will be the standard bearer for our avant-garde spirit and Swiss Made quality throughout the world. It will also give us magnificent brand visibility with its roster of prestigious races.”
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Andy Rihs, BMC Racing Team owner, adds: “It is fantastic to welcome a luxury partner to BMC Racing Team’s portfolio and to have two high-level Swiss brands in BMC and Tag Heuer join forces through international cycling is absolutely unique. We are all excited to work with Tag Heuer, and I am particularly thrilled to announce this collaboration with my longtime friend, Jean-Claude Biver. BMC and Tag Heuer are both passionately Swiss and committed to excellence, so I am very much looking forward to the 2017 season and seeing our riders proudly display the Tag Heuer logo.”
Jim Ochowicz, BMC Racing Team President and General Manager, said: “This collaboration between BMC Racing Team and Tag Heuer is an important stage in the team’s history and one that signals great things for our future. BMC Racing Team and Tag Heuer share many values which can most aptly be summarized by Tag Heuer’s don’t crack under pressure mindset, the very essence of cycling. Timing is at the heart of racing, whether it’s a race against the clock at a time trial or a three-week Grand Tour, the goal is to be the fastest, so to have Tag Heuer join BMC Racing Team as our Official Timekeeper is an excellent fit.”
A global partnership All team members will be sporting the TAG Heuer Connected, which will provide them with information and communications. In terms of brand visibility, the watchmaker’s logo will be placed in all strategic locations. In races, on the jerseys, the watchmaker’s famous shield will appear high up and on the sides of the sleeves (a key location for TV and photography). On podiums, during interviews, this same logo will feature on all the cyclists’ caps. Finally, the team’s official vehicles will proudly sport the TAG Heuer and BMC colors side by side on roads all over the world. As a tribute to TAG Heuer’s cycling heritage, road racing legend Dag Otto Lauritzen (age 50, Norwegian pro cyclist from 1984 to 1994, stage winner of the Tour de France and the Vuelta a España, bronze medalist at the 1984 Olympics, and member of 7-Eleven Cycling Team which in those days wore the TAG Heuer colors) came to the press conference as well.
Championship Team Time Trial, Tom Bohli (SUI), Rohan Dennis (AUS), Stefan Küng (SUI), Daniel Oss (ITA), Manuel Quinziato (ITA), Taylor Phinney (USA), and Joey Rosskopf (USA). The 2016 BMC Racing Team brings together 29 athletes of 12 different nationalities. Ranking among the top four UCI WorldTour teams in professional cycling, it is followed by 20 million fans around the world. It is also one of the most well-known pro teams (ranked in the top 3 in the US, UK, Australia and Germany). On social media, the team has more than 800,000 followers. The spirit of the BMC Racing Team-TAG Heuer collaboration is about bringing together highly motivated, engaged and ambitious people to seek out innovations in all domains, and not just in the world of sports. It’s also about taking to the next level the avant garde technologies, materials and design that will be developed with the same spirit that drives the watchmaker from La Chaux-deFonds: “Swiss avant-garde since 1860.”
TAG Heuer and cycling: back in the saddle after a hiatus of more than 20 years The first pairing of professional cycling with the brand dates back to 1946, when pocket chronometers for measuring time during races and trials are first mentioned in the brochure of Swiss watchmaker HEUER. In 1985, more than 30 years ago, TAG Heuer ventured in earnest into the world of professional cycling as sponsor of the HEUER SKIL SEM team and its leader Sean Kelly. From 1986-1987 to 1990, the brand’s involvement continues with Team KAS TAG HEUER and the American 7-Eleven Cycling Team, founded by none other than Jim Ochowicz – the current President and General Manager of BMC Racing Team whom TAG Heuer is partnering with again today. Dag Otto Lauritzen, also in attendance today, and Andy Hampsten, are without a doubt heroes of that era when the first special edition of the Heuer Formula 1, sporting the red and green team colors, saw the light of day. In 1992 TAG Heuer teams up with Swiss champion Tony Rominger (115 wins and hour record holder in 1994) who would also be the brand’s ambassador until 1996.
Also in attendance to mark the occasion: 2015 Australian time trial champion Richie Porte, leader of BMC Racing Team in 2016 (winner of Paris-Nice in 2013 and 2015 as well as Volta a Catalunya in 2015) and the 7 selected riders for the UCI World
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718 CAYMAN, MACAN AND CAYENNE PLATINUM EDITION ARRIVE IN QATAR
Porsche Centre Doha Debuts Three New Models
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orsche Centre Doha has welcomed a trifecta of new models with the latest arrivals of the all-new 718 Cayman, Macan with a four-cylinder engine and the Cayenne Platinum Edition. Representing the brand’s latest developments in performance, comfort and efficiency across a range of segments, the new models are now available in Qatar. Their arrival concludes an important year for Porsche in the country with continuous additions to the model range.
The base model 718 Cayman is now driven by a newly developed, 2-litre, 300 hp engine with innovative turbocharging, as well as a substantial torque increase of 35 per cent to 380 Newton metres. The 718 Cayman S boasts 2.5 litres of engine displacement and 350 hp, with a maximum torque at 420 Newton metres, all resulting in more power right from the start and additional output for cornering fun, at engine speeds between 1,900 and 4,500 rpm.
As the latest mid-engine coupe from the Stuttgart-based manufacturer, the 718 Cayman is now stronger and sportier than ever before. The model range features newly turbocharged engines, reworked design and an improved chassis. Meanwhile, the newest addition to Porsche’s compact SUV range is the Macan with a four cylinder engine. As the entry-level model for Porsche in this segment, it boasts the brand’s typical sports car performance. The Cayenne Platinum Edition represents elegance and sophistication, featuring exclusive design elements and an enhanced sporty appearance. Speaking of the new arrivals, Porsche Centre Doha Chairman and CEO, Salman Al Darwish, said: “Porsche is always at the cutting edge of technological advancement and this instance is no different. We are pleased to be offering our customers the latest models in the Porsche sports car lineage with the addition of the new 718 Cayman, Macan and Cayenne Platinum Edition models. Each model showcases enhanced attributes embedded with the signature Porsche DNA to ensure the sportiest drive in its segment, whilst at the same time offering comfort and exclusivity.” maqinaonline.com / ISSUE 5 57
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LO C A L N E W S With the new turbo engines, the coupés accelerate in record time and thanks to the new Dynamic Boost function, react as spontaneously as naturally aspirated engines. When equipped with the optional, seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) and Sport Chrono Package, the 718 Cayman sprints from 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds, whilst the S version achieves the same in 4.2 seconds. The top speed for the base model is 275 km/h; its sibling tops out at 285 km/h. The new model has undergone comprehensive design enhancements with only the luggage compartment lid, roof and windscreen left unchanged. Inside, a newly developed instrument panel redefines the cockpit. The latest generation of Porsche Communication Management (PCM) with a state-of-the-art touchscreen is also included as standard. Merging true sports car performance with everyday drive comfort, the new Macan now features a four-cylinder turbo engine specifically tailored to the vehicle. The turbocharged twolitre engine delivers 252 hp and comes standard with a sevenspeed PDK dual clutch transmission. The base model is capable of reaching 100km/h in 6.7 seconds, reduced to 6.5 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono-Package. Its top speed is 229 km/h with a fuel consumption between 7.4/100 km and 7.2/100 km/h.
The models’ expanded range of features improves comfort and safety. Standard equipment in the Cayenne Platinum Edition includes Bi-xenon headlights with the Porsche Dynamic Light System (PDLS), Power Steering Plus and ParkAssist in the front and rear. A nonmetallic black or white finish is standard, with Deep Black, Purpurite, Mahogany, Carrara White and Rhodium Silver metallic paints available as an option. Additional high-end standard features include the latest generation Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system and the BOSE® Surround Sound speakers. The new 718 Cayman, Macan and Cayenne Platinum Edition are now available at the Porsche Centre Doha with a basic retail price as follows: 718 Cayman 718 Cayman S Macan Cayenne Platinum Edition
208,000 QAR 235,100 QAR 184,100 QAR 286,700 QAR
Designed to be particularly sporty and efficient, the Macan features a powerful 370 Newton metres of torque ranging between 1,600 rpm and 4,500 rpm, capable of converting engine power into exceptionally sporty conditions. Standard Porsche Traction Management, agile suspension and precise steering all add to the dynamic performance of the car. Also making its debut at Porsche Centre Doha is the new Cayenne Platinum Edition model – a designation reserved for selected model series that are offered for only a limited time. Easily recognisable at first glance by its more distinctive sporty appearance, the model features large 20-inch wheels in RS Spyder design, housed in wider wheel arches. The exclusive interiors, with stainless steel door sills showcasing “Platinum Edition” lettering, are complemented further by leather sport seats, Alcantara centre panels and the Porsche crest on all headrests.
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The All New
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
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THE ALL-NEW E CLASS MARKS THE WORLD PREMIERE OF NUMEROUS TECHNICAL INNOVATIONS THAT ENABLE COMFORTABLE, SAFE DRIVING ON A NEW LEVEL, PLUS A NEW DIMENSION IN DRIVER ASSISTANCE.
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GOOD LOOKING, APPEALING AND WITH EXCEPTIONAL EXTERIOR DESIGN, MATCHED ONLY BY ITS EXCLUSIVE INTERIOR STYLE AND HIGH QUALITY WORKMANSHIP.
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NEW, INTELLIGENT ASSISTANCE AND SAFETY SYSTEMS SEE MERCEDES-BENZ TAKING ANOTHER STEP CLOSER TO ITS GOAL OF ACCIDENT-FREE AND AUTONOMOUS DRIVING.
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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE OPTIONAL DRIVING ASSISTANCE PACKAGE THAT MAKE THE E-CLASS THE MOST INTELLIGENT SEDAN IN ITS CLASS INCLUDE: DRIVE PILOT, PRE-SAFE® ,AND PRE-SAFE® PLUS, ACTIVE BRAKE ASSIST AND ACTIVE BLIND SPOT ASSIST
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ith its distinct, emotive design, exclusive interior and impressive number of innovations, Mercedes-Benz is taking a big step into the future with the all-new E-Class. The all-new car is available now in Qatar at the showroom of Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the authorized distributor of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar. Marking the world premiere of numerous technical innovations that enable comfortable, safe driving on a new level, plus a new dimension in driver assistance – the E-Class sees Mercedes-Benz taking another step closer to its goal of accident-free and autonomous driving. The E-Class is the core of Mercedes-Benz brand, and in the past has repeatedly redefined the standards in the executive-class segment. Now it carries this tradition into the future with a wealth of top-class
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innovations that take safety, stress relief and comfort to a new level. It is without doubt the most intelligent sedan in the executive class. The design of the all-new E-Class is characterised by hallmark Mercedes-Benz sedan proportions. The elongated bonnet coupled with a coupé-esque roof and broad-shouldered tail end creates an exciting silhouette, while its new extended powerful vehicle body is characterised by short overhangs, a long wheelbase, large wheels and taut well-defined flanks that display a fresh, stylish and dynamic interpretation of the feature line. The muscular front end boasts a different look for each design and equipment line – EXCLUSIVE, AVANTGARDE and AMG Line models – with each of the radiator grill designs lending the E-Class a distinct character.
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Next Level Interior Design The interior of the all-new E-Class embodies the synthesis of emotion and intelligence. Optional extras include the Widescreen Cockpit with two brilliant next-generation high-resolution displays, each with a wide screen diagonal of 12.3 inches – unique in this segment. As the entire cockpit is fully digital, the driver is free to configure the information and views of relevance for them and thus create their own personal cockpit. In a first for a car, the steering wheel features touch-sensitive Touch Controls that, like a smartphone interface, respond precisely to horizontal and vertical swiping movements. In keeping with the motto “hands on the wheel, eyes on the road“, this allows minimum driver distraction to be achieved.
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THEY INCLUDE OPEN-PORE WOODS, WOOD IN A YACHTING LOOK WITH FLOWING LINES AS A CONTEMPORARY INTERPRETATION OF INLAID WOOD AND A NOVEL METAL FABRIC.
Intelligent material design High-quality materials define the interior style. They include open-pore woods, wood in a yachting look with flowing lines as a contemporary interpretation of inlaid wood and a novel metal fabric. Just as carefully composed is the colour concept with various shades of brown, including new attractive colour combinations such as nut brown/macchiato and saddle brown/macchiato.
A further highlight of the all-new E-Class are its seats. Their ergonomic, sculptural form combines Mercedes-Benz’s hallmark suitability for long journeys with a refined, sporty look, featuring a unique design for each line. Furthermore, Active Multicontour Seat package is also available as an option for the front seats. This includes the following functions: Energizing Massage, dynamic seat, multicontour backrest and – new – the active cushion. The interior lighting makes exclusive use of durable, energy-saving LED technology. The same applies to the enhanced ambient lighting included in the lines. With 64 colours, it offers a host of possibilities for personalisation throughout the interior.
Nine-speed automatic transmission All models available are equipped as standard with the new 9G TRONIC nine-speed automatic transmission. It enables fast gear changes and allows low engine revs, which has a particularly beneficial effect on efficiency and noise levels.
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Suspension – sporty comfort The suspension on the all-new E-Class, with three options of selective damping, offers agile driving pleasure and the highest level of ride comfort in this segment. In addition, a multi-chamber air suspension all round is also available – the only car in its segment to offer this option – and one that delivers excellent ride comfort, good road roar and tyre vibration characteristics with its augmented electronically controlled adaptive damping system, and outstanding driving dynamics. What’s more, a DYNAMIC SELECT switch in the cockpit enables the driver to select from five AIR BODY CONTROL modes: “Comfort”, “ECO”, “Sport” , “Sport +”and “Individual”, allowing drivers to configure their vehicle to suit their own preferences.
Next-generation driving assistance systems Mercedes-Benz’s new assistance and safety systems enhance safety, comfort and driver assistance to new levels. Active Brake Assist is able to warn the driver of impending collisions, provide optimum support with emergency braking and if necessary also autonomously apply the brakes.
Included as standard is ATTENTION ASSIST with adjustable sensitivity, which can warn the driver of inattentiveness and drowsiness. Highlights of the optional Driving Assistance package that make the E-Class the most intelligent sedan in its class include:
DRIVE PILOT: This system represents Mercedes-Benz’s next step on the road to autonomous driving. As Distance Pilot DISTRONIC, it is not only able to automatically maintain the correct following distance behind the vehicle in front, at speeds up to 130 km/h, the system can continue to actively help with the steering by taking account of surrounding vehicles and parallel structures, even if the lane markings are unclear or non-existent. The system makes driving much easier, especially in traffic jams or heavy congestion. Integrated into DRIVE PILOT, Active Emergency Stop Assist can brake the vehicle to a standstill in its lane if it detects that the driver is permanently no longer taking control while on the move.
ACTIVE BRAKE ASSIST with cross-traffic function can detect crossing traffic at junctions and, if the driver fails to respond, apply the brakes autonomously. Likewise, the new Evasive Steering Assist system complements the pedestrian detection function of Active Brake Assist. If the driver deliberately or instinctively initiates an evasive manoeuvre in a hazardous situation, this function can add precisely calculated steering torque to support the movement of the steering wheel.
ADVANCED ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS: the intelligent assistance systems in the new Driver Assistance package also include proven systems that have been further developed in terms of their mode of operation and the sensors they use such as Active Blind Spot Assist, PRE-SAFE®, and PRE-SAFE® PLUS.
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ADVANCED ASSISTANCE SYSTEMS: the intelligent assistance systems in the new Driver Assistance package also include proven systems that have been further developed in terms of their mode of operation and the sensors they use such as Active Blind Spot Assist, PRESAFE®, and PRE-SAFE® PLUS.
PRE-SAFE® IMPULSE SIDE: this system is part of the Driving Assistance package PLUS. If a lateral collision has been detected and is imminent, it can move the driver or front passenger away from the danger zone in a sideways direction by way of precaution. To do this, the system inflates an air chamber in the side bolster of the front seat backrest nearest the side of the imminent impact in a fraction of a second, thus increasing the distance between occupant and door and, at the same time, reducing the forces acting on them.
PRE-SAFE® SOUND: this system is based on a human reflex in the inner ear, called the stapedius reflex. PRESAFE® Sound emits a short interference signal through the vehicle’s sound system if the risk of a collision is detected. This signal can trigger the natural reflex and thus prepare the occupants’ ears for the expected sound of the accident, in order to reduce the stress on the occupants.
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State-of-the-art headlamps The all-new E-Class comes as standard with standard halogen headlamps. These incorporate an energy-saving LED daytime running lamp. Alternatively, a static LED High Performance headlamp as well as an innovative MULTIBEAM LED headlamp system with Intelligent Light System and adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus are available.
Multifunction Telephony – ideally connected, and not a cable in sight An all-new infotainment generation is making its debut in the E-Class equipped with COMAND Online. Its highlights, alongside the double display, include the touch-sensitive Touch Controls on the steering wheel and the new, intelligent graphic design of the Multifunction Telephony. It allows mobile phones to be charged and, at the same time, connected to the vehicle’s exterior aerial – with absolutely no need for cables or a telephone holder.
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Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles launches the all new E-Class Mercedes-Benz and V-Class for the first time in Qatar Sheik Nawaf Nasser Bin Khaled reveals the two cars in the presence of VIP guests, corporates’ representatives and media
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asser Bin Khaled Automobiles, the authorized distributors of Mercedes-Benz in Qatar, marked the launching of two new Mercedes-Benz cars, the All-new E class and the V-Class for the first time in Qatar. The launching event took place at St. Regis hotel Doha in the presence of Sheik Nawaf Nasser Bin Khaled, the chairman of Nasser Bin Khaled Holding, ambassadors, VIP guests, businessmen and representatives of the media and corporates in Qatar. Khalid Sha’aban, General Manager, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles welcomes the guests and introduced them to the new cars. The new launching is in line with NBK Automobiles strategy to provide the Qatari Market with latest Mercedes-Benz cars, offering the customers a wide range of choices and solutions. While the E-Class celebrates its new model for 2017, the V-Class comes to Qatar for the first time marking its debut to serve the demands of the individuals, families and the corporate, thanks to its multi-purpose usage and capabilities. The E-Class is the core of Merceds-Benz brand, and in the past has repeatedly redefined the standards in the executive-class segment. Now it carries this tradition into the future with a wealth of top-class innovations that take safety, stress relief and comfort to a new level. The interior of the all-new E-Class embodies the synthesis of emotion and intelligence.
LO C A L N E W S For the first time in Qatar, The V-Class Mercedes-Benz is redefining the MPV and will provide unprecedented solutions for the individuals, families and corporates, as well as to the hospitality and tourism sectors. As the youngest and largest member of the passenger car family, it sets new benchmarks in its segment with its design and a host of innovations. The new V-Class combines room for up to eight people and exemplary functionality with the high-class appeal, comfort, efficient driving pleasure and safety that distinguish automobiles bearing the three-pointed star. This makes the Mercedes among MPVs the perfect vehicle for everyone who appreciates great spaciousness but does not want to sacrifice style and comfort. Khalid Shaaban, General Manager, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles said: “Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles, continues its successful record in providing the Qatari Market with the latest vehicles of the luxurious brand, immediately following their global launch. We are setting the benchmark of in offering a wide range of automotive and solutions that meet our customers’ demands”. “I would like to recap to our customers that we will continue our growth in a progressive track. We will enhance and extend our portfolio. What we are observing today is the outcome of long term experiments and cumulative experience and future vision. It is a reflection of what Mercedes-Benz values represent, just as Nasser bin Khaled Automobiles values that rely on reliability, luxury and performance.”
The All-New E class: The all-new E Class marks the world premiere of numerous technical innovations that enable comfortable, safe driving on a new level, plus a new dimension in driver assistance. It is distinguished with its good looking, appealing and with exceptional exterior design, matched only by its exclusive interior style and high quality workmanship. New, intelligent assistance and safety systems see Mercedes-Benz taking another step closer to its goal of accident-free and autonomous driving. Some of the highlights of the optional Driving Assistance package that make the E-Class the most intelligent sedan in its class include: DRIVE PILOT, PRE-SAFE® ,and PRE-SAFE® PLUS, Active Brake Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. An all-new infotainment generation is making its debut in the E-Class equipped with COMAND Online. Its highlights, alongside the double display, include the touch-sensitive Touch Controls on the steering wheel and the new, intelligent graphic design of the Multifunction Telephony. It allows mobile phones to be charged and, at the same time, connected to the vehicle’s exterior aerial – with absolutely no need for cables or a telephone holder.
The V-Class: The Ideal Choice The V-Class is unmistakably a member of the Mercedes-Benz passenger car family and sets an emotional highlight in its segment. A high level of driving comfort and an exemplary standard of safety are ensured by a total of eleven innovative driver assistance systems. The interior of the V-Class is a completely new MPV experience. And not only because it is pleasantly quiet. High-quality materials with a pleasant touch and feel and a harmonious colour concept, intricate details as well as a progressive and sensuous design idiom convey outstanding high-class appeal in the segment – and that hallmark “welcome home” feeling typical of Mercedes-Benz cars.
The V-Class also sets new standards in comfort and variability with a host of innovations. The Mercedes-Benz MPV is the only vehicle in the segment to offer optional 4-way lumbar support and active seat ventilation with reversing fans to ensure a consistent relative humidity at the contact area with the leather seat for driver and front passenger. The seating in the rear allows numerous configurations to meet any requirements. As standard, the MPV is equipped with four individual luxury seats with armrests in two seat rows. Thanks to improved technology and operating logic, they can be folded forward intuitively to afford fast and easy access to the rear. As an option, a folding table can be installed between the single seats. Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles has built its success by establishing solid, longstanding relationships with its customers, and through offering a wide range of products. As a brand name, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles is deeply associated with a history of premium quality service and market leadership. The company promises to not only meet customer expectations, but to exceed them. Established in 1957, Nasser Bin Khaled Automobiles is Qatar’s exclusive distributor of three of the world’s most respected, iconic brands: May Bach, MercedesBenz and AMG.
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InterContinental Hotels Group Qatar & Mitsubishi Motors Launch the 15th Annual IHG Qatar Mixed Open
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he 15th IHG Qatar Mixed Open, represented by InterContinental Doha, InterContinental Doha The City and Crowne Plaza Doha The Business Park, in association with Mitsubishi Motors was held on the 21st and 22nd of October 2016 at Doha Golf Club. The tournament was officially launched on Wednesday, October 19th at InterContinental Doha in the presence of VIPs, corporate executives, and media representatives. The tournament attracted a top class amateur field of 200 golfers from the Gulf region competing in a two-day golfing agenda including a complimentary practice round followed by one tournament round played in “Greensomes” format over the Championship Course at the exclusive Doha Golf Club. The annual event, a highlight on Doha Golf Club’s calendar, also allows GCC golfers to play on a world-class, Peter Harradine designed Championship Golf Course.
LO C A L N E W S “As part of our “responsible business” strategic vision, we continue with our charity auction on the awards night where the funds raised will go to two important organizations: the first one is “IHG Foundation” to support victims of natural disasters worldwide and the second organization is “Qatar Cancer Society” The Society is one of the leading humanitarian organizations in Qatar which pledges to work towards increasing public awareness about cancer and cancer prevention”, commented Andreas Pfister, General Manager InterContinental Doha and Area General Manager IHG Qatar, Kuwait and Bahrain. Mitsubishi Motors is sponsoring this prestigious tournament for a 4th year in a row, speaking at the press conference, Ihab El Feky, General Manager at Qatar Automobiles Company added, “Like IHG we also share the same values of corporate social responsibility, promoting sports and a healthy lifestyle, and giving back to the society; this year we have allocated 3 valuable prizes to be put up for auction so we can try to raise as much funds possible for these noble causes. Prizes awarded included the top 5 couples and special prizes such as the most exercised couples, the longest drive, and nearest to the pin at a prize giving ceremony followed by a lavish dinner, both held at Doha Golf Club on the evening of the 22nd of October 2016.
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BMW M POWERS THROUGH THE LOSAIL INTERNATIONAL CIRCUIT BMW M2 makes its first appearance on-track in Qatar BMW M Track event taking place for the fifth consecutive year
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ith over 5 kilometers of track and 16 turns, the Losail International circuit - home to the Superbike World Championship - was the perfect setting for an exciting BMW M track event this weekend, with customers and media getting the unique opportunity of putting the BMW M models to the test and discovering the true power of each model in the M line-up. The event that took place from the 14th to 15th October started with a parade organized in cooperation with Mawter Group, going from the Alfardan Automobiles showroom in Al Sadd to the Losail International Circuit. Hosted by Alfardan Automobiles, the official BMW importer in Qatar, the event saw a number of the top M models on the circuit, including the BMW M2 Coupé that made its Middle East debut at the Qatar Motor Show, along with the popular BMW M4, M3 and M6 models
all making an appearance on the track. Joining them was the second generation BMW X6M and X5M, which has set the benchmark in driving dynamics and efficiency. Mr. Ihab Allam, General Manager of Alfardan Automobiles, commented: “At Alfardan Automobiles we always put the customer at the forefront of our business. It is the cornerstone of our success and we continually look to create exhilarating and interactive experiences, such as the BMW M drive event, where our customers can unleash the power of each of the M models we have on offer. We are excited to be putting the BMW M2 Coupé on the track for the first time, making its regional debut here in Qatar. The vehicle has proved its mettle in the performance stakes and has garnered mass appeal since its reveal less than a year ago.”
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Launched in Qatar, the all-new BMW M2 Coupé, is a highperformance iteration that succeeds the BMW 1 Series M Coupé. The new model continues the tradition of the compact, high-performance BMW sports cars that started over 40 years ago with the BMW 2002 turbo. The M2 Coupé’s powerful six-cylinder in-line engine, with either automatic or manual gearbox, produces 272 kW/370 hp and 465 Nm allowing for an elevated driving experience. With the rear-wheel-drive agility, lightweight aluminium M Sport suspension and extrovert styling, it has all the ingredients to deliver sheer driving pleasure. The second generation BMW X6M and X5M were also present on the track this weekend. Setting the benchmark in terms of driving dynamics and outstanding efficiency in the high-performance Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) and Sports Activity Coupé (SAC) segments, both models are powered by the latest-generation 4.4-litre V8 engine, using innovative M TwinPower Turbo technology to push torque and output to even higher performance levels.
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Supreme track models, the BMW M3 Sedan and new BMW M4 Coupé, were in their natural environment at this weekend’s event. Underlining their high performance credentials, both models’ sporting designs include large air intakes and Air Curtains at the front end, exposed carbon-fibrereinforced plastic (CFRP) and aluminium body components. These, together with the diffuser at the muscular rear end, are not merely design flourishes; they also fulfil functional roles in terms of aerodynamics, cooling and weight saving. As with all M models, it’s about the power. The high-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, newly developed for the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé, produces a maximum output of 431 hp. Its peak torque of 550 Newton meters (406 lb-ft) is available across a wide rev band yet the engine also achieves a reduction in fuel consumption and emissions of around 25 per cent. Both the BMW M3 Sedan and BMW M4 Coupé cover the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.1 seconds (with the optional seven-speed M Double Clutch Transmission). Alfardan Automobiles would like to give a special thanks to the Mawater Group and the BMW Club in Qatar for their support during the two day BMW track event.
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M EET TH E C AR
BMW M4 GTS The BMW M4 GTS uses the multi-award-winning six-cylinder in-line turbo engine from the BMW M3/M4, but adds innovative water injection technology to give the 3.0-litre unit a substantial power boost
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ME E T T H E C A R
ENGINE
TRANSMISSION
STARTING PRICE
Inline 6 3.0 L Turbo
7 Speed M Double Clutch
$ 133,205 (US Price)
493 bhp - 600 Nm
Rear-Wheel Drive
0-100KPH
MAX SPEED
WEIGHT
3.8 SEC
305 KM/H
1,510 kg
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M EET TH E C AR
Rolls-Royce Wraith Black Badge Powerful, dynamic and refined. Wraith Black Badge is the ultimate modern fastback coupĂŠ. A long bonnet and a wide-rear track create an athletic prowess, while the sweeping lines give it a profile that glides effortlessly through the night.
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ME E T T H E C A R
ENGINE
TRANSMISSION
STARTING PRICE
V12 - 6.6 L Twin-Turbo
8 Speed Automatic
QAR 1,570,000
624 bhp - 870 Nm
Rear-Wheel Drive
0-100KPH
MAX SPEED
WEIGHT
4.5 SEC
250 KM/H
2,440 kg
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C OV ER STO RY
U N D E R S TA N D I N G
TOYOTA PRIUS BY: Tarek Hawchar | Photos: Natali Leonova
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T
here are very few cars splitting opinions down the line like the Toyota Prius does. On one hand, you have driving enthusiasts who wouldn’t own one in a million years, and on the other you have those recognizing what it truly is. A great alternative to the not yet fully developed full-on electric cars primed the future. Electricity is the future, no question about that. But we’re not there, not even close, and yet we’re already having major global warming issues. Hybrids have proven to be a great choice in such a world. You don’t even need to be doing it to save the planet. Many people are buying the Prius for its excellent fuel economy and the running savings it offers over a standard car. Whether it’s just their daily driver or an all-rounder, we’re seeing an increase in the popularity of hybrids and electric vehicles. You don’t even need to be doing it to save the planet. Many people are buying the Prius for its excellent fuel economy and the running savings it offers over a standard car. Whether it’s just their daily driver or an all-rounder, we’re seeing an increase in the popularity of hybrids and electric vehicles. Not just the Prius, but other models too. In reality, no one needs a sports car or a large luxury limo. They’re all just luxuries. The simple concept of the city car is probably the best definition for what a car should be. Cheap and reliable means of transport for the masses. A way to deliver and get from one place to another. You throw performance out the window for efficiency and affordability. But you and I both know it doesn’t work like that. We always want more of everything, of speed, of comfort and truth be told, we wouldn’t have gotten to where we are today if it weren’t for the constant striving for more and more. It’s how new ideas are born and how existing ones are improved. We’re living in a world where the prospect of hybrids and electric cars is genuinely exciting. Before you continue reading, you should keep in mind that the Prius does not need to be charged. Yes, that’s true. The Prius charges itself using the gasoline engine while driving and braking.The whole idea of hybrid vehicles is to substantially increase fuel efficiency through the use of an electric motor/combustion engine combo. Prius comes out on top when it comes to overall fuel savings.
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“ We’re living in a world where the prospect of hybrids and electric cars is genuinely exciting ”
C OV E R STO RY
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C OV ER STO RY The Toyota Prius is one of the least expensive cars to own. It is not only great for our environment but you will also save money from reduced fuel costs.Now you might be saying that gasoline prices are cheap in the GCC, well the simple answer is that you are still saving money and on your long road trips, isn’t it much better to be spending your time seeing the sights instead of making stops at the petrol station?Due to its exceptional reliability, the maintenance costs are very low as well. Like nearly all other Toyota models, the Toyota Prius is very reliable. Some Prius owners have put upwards of 200,000 miles on their cars already, and in many cases, they are functioning as well as they did when it rolled off the dealer’s lot brand new.Part electric, part petrolengine, the new Prius is the most ecologically friendly
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car on the road today, and it’s all down to its hybrid synergy drive. In plain English, this is a revolutionary type of engine that combines petrol and electrical power to maximize fuel economy and energy expenditure while minimizing harmful waste emissions. At low speeds the Prius is able to run almost entirely off its electric motor, with identical performance to a regular, gasolineguzzling engine. At higher speeds, the engine is driven by a combination of electrical and petrol power. Power allocation is controlled between the two energy sources, and constantly monitored and adjusted to ensure maximum energy and fuel efficiency.When the Prius is stopped in traffic, the petrol engine is automatically shut off.
ROA D T R I P
“ THE PRIUS CHARGES ITSELF USING THE GASOLINE ENGINE WHILE DRIVING AND BRAKING ”
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In terms of low-emissions, the Prius demolishes any other car on the road. Particle matter emissions are non-existent. It has the lowest carbon dioxide emissions of any vehicle on the market - 32% less CO2 comes out of its exhaust than from a normal petrol-burning car. In fact, over the course of a year, the Prius produces more than a ton less CO2 than even the best D-segment diesels. It’s is also the bestperforming internal combustion production car in the world in terms of nitrous oxide and HC emissions. Inside and out, Toyota has made extensive use of high-recyclability materials, and huge efforts to reduce the use of any substances of concern in the car’s construction. The new Prius is equipped with an EV driving mode button. When pressed, the car is powered by the electric motor alone, allowing zero-emission performance and ultra-low noise and vibration motoring, as well as obviously saving on petrol costs. The car’s engine is designed entirely around conserving energy, while ensuring optimum performance. In a conventional car, each time the brakes are applied, kinetic energy is wasted. Not so in the Prius - when braking the electric motor operates as a generator, converting the vehicle’s kinetic energy into electricity, which is used to keep the battery fully charged. In fact, the electric motor is self-charging, creating energy from the car’s motion, so you never have to plug the car into the mains, as with some older fully electric cars. Even the car’s power steering system is designed to conserve energy, kicking in gradually as and when it’s needed.
This isn’t the first time the world’s third-largest car producer has displayed its green credentials. In 1997 Toyota launched the first model Prius, then the world’s first mass production hybrid. Since then, the first Prius has won 20 international awards, including the Global 500 Award for Environmental Commitment from the United Nations.
“
With the new Prius, Toyota has exceeded its previous awardwinning standards and as we begin to understand the true impact harmful emissions are having on our environment, it seems the new Prius has arrived on time
”
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C OV ER STO RY
From Japan to Qatar (Part II) in Next Issue Toyota Motor Corporation, Innovation and Social Responsibility We will take you to Japan and specifically to Toyota Motor Corporation to highlight the company’s environmental milestone achievements, contribution to traffic solutions, safety technology such as THUMS (Total Human Model System), Prius safety and of course we drove the car at the famous Fuji Speedway
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C OV E R STO RY
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CAR REVIEW
CAR REVIEW
BMW X4 M40I / MITSUBISHI MONTERO S / BMW M4 GTS / JAGUAR XF
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE CAR THIS MONTH
C AR R EV I EW
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CAR REVIEW
BMW X4 M40i
BY: Tarek Hawchar | Photos: Natali Leonova
W
e all know BMW’s tactic by now. Try and explore ever little niche possible, or simply create one if it doesn’t exist. They practically invented the performance SUV market years ago with the X5 and X6, and they’ve been at the top ever since. With new, smaller SUVs from Audi and Mercedes however, BMW needed a reply. And reply they did, with the X4. The car slotted right between the X3 and the X5, although naturally, it resembled the X6 thanks to BMW’s even and odd nomenclature. The car proved to be successful… until the SQ5 and GLA45 AMG arrived. BMW needed an answer fast, and this is what they came up. Welcome to the X4 M40i.
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Recently we had the opportunity to test the car in Munich, at BMW’s driving academy. We drove it on their test track as well as the road, and the results are what you might call unsurprising, but more on that later. Let’s just say that the S and AMG have a lot to fear. From the outside, the M40i doesn’t really look that different to a standard X4. Yes, there are differences, but it will take a keen eye to spot them. For starters, you get satin chrome accents below the fog lights, just inside the grille. That unique grey color is also featured on the side mirror caps. The large, 20-inch M alloy wheels come in the same color too, but they are optional. We think they’re worth it just for the cool-factor alone. Go around the back, and you find two dual tailpipes finished in what BMW calls Black Chrome. The dead giveaway as to this car’s true potential becomes apparent even to non-enthusiasts once you look at the rear hatch. More specifically, the rather pronounced M40i badging complete with BMW M’s little logo in its traditional colors. Walking up to it, you’re sort of amazed at how well-proportioned it is. The blue color is really nice, and it complements all the other exterior accessories nicely. As you’re walking up to it to get in, the closer you get the more aggressive and menacing it appears. It might even pass as what you’d call a “sleeper”, a wolf in sheep’s clothing, looking at it from a far. Get up close and personal with it and it’s immediately apparent that this isn’t an ordinary X4.
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It really does look like a smaller X6. Like they took the X6, shrunk it by around 20 percent or so and just put it on sale. That’s not a bad thing however, as the X6 is by no means a bad looking car. The sloping roofline gives off a coupe-ish silhouette, although it’s so tall that it’s not fooling anyone. Stepping inside you find the usual plethora of BMW materials and gadgets. The X4 standard design is present, there’s the same central dash, a great iDrive screen slapped in the middle and small buttons for the HVAC functions. The latest iteration of the iDrive is miles better than systems of old. Although you can still criticize it for being a tad complicated, once you get used to it, it’s better than its rivals’ systems. Elsewhere, there’s an M steering wheel wrapped in leather, an M gear shift lever, better, sportier seats to hold you in place and of course, the door sill badging letting you know you’re not getting in the run of the mill X4. If we’re being honest, the interior isn’t as changed as some of you might have hoped for, but consider what the M40i is for a moment. It’s not a full-blown M car like the X6M for instance. It’s a sportier version of the standard car, and for that, we can’t nitpick at it at all.
CAR REVIEW
The dynamic capabilities, like we said at the start of this review, are typical BMW, which is to say brilliant. BMW gave us the opportunity to really push the X4 M40i to its limit at their test track. We conducted an acceleration test, a braking test as well as a slalom course, all on wet pavement, and the grip the X4 has is simply unbelievable. It’s difficult to get your head round the fact that a relatively small SUV such as the X4 can behave in such a way. We’re talking about a tall, legitimate four-seater SUV which can beat supercars from just 20 years ago. The braking was fierce, you simply would not believe how ferocious it stops once you stomp on the brake pedal. Cornering speeds were even more impressive, mimicking that of most performance sedans. This is one of the most agile small SUVs on the market. To test out the car’s full potential, we took it out on the road to get a feel for what it’s like in the real world. The 3.0 liter TwinPower straight six-cylinder unit is a gem of an engine. It’s the same one found in the standard X4, as well as most other BMW products, but here it produces 55 hp and 43 lb-ft torque more. For what is effectively the same unit, that’s a big power bump. The increase comes from a slightly higher boost and high-flow fuel injectors to match. A free-flow exhaust allows the engine to breather better, and a tweaked air intake manifold guarantees optimal air flow. To maintain the same temperatures and make sure it doesn’t overheat, BMW fitted a separate oil cooler.
At first, we forgot that we’re in Germany, so we only drove as fast as the speed limit in most other places allows us (120 km/h). When the realization that we’re on the Autobahn kicked in, we floored it, and the beastly straight-six just woke up. You get a whopping 343 lb-ft of torque from just 1,350, and they run all the way to 5,250. From there, the 355 hp take over, topping out at 6000 rpm for the full potential. It recalibrates what you think is possible from a vehicle of this class. The 0-100 km/h sprint is dealt with in just 4.7 seconds, and it will go on to 250 km/h (electronically limited). Flooring it glues you back to your seat. But it’s a refined kind of fast. It’s a constant surge rather than a kick, riding the wave of torque before the mountain of power takes over. Because it’s so stable and quiet, you don’t notice the speed too. It’s only when you look down and see triple figures beginning with a 2 at the front do you realize you’re really eating up kilometers. The BMW X4 M40i has to be one of the best SUVs of its type ever built. It’s not that its rivals are bad, far from it. The BMW is just so good that it moves the game to a whole new level.
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2016 BMW M4 GTS I was so lucky to drive this car at the BMW driving academy in Munich but not as much as the owners of this beast driving it around Doha. Why that lucky? Keep reading. BY: Tarek Hawchar | Photos: Natali Leonova
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CAR REVIEW
The old E92 M3 was the best performance sedan/coupe according to nearly every review. The E92 M3 GTS further improved on that by offering more of everything, but it was right on the edge of being a racecar for the road. With the debut of the F82 M4, which proved to be a whole level above the E92, it was only a matter of time before BMW introduced the new 2016 M4 GTS. So, how did they manage to improve over the old GTS you may ask? Simple. They built the most hardcore M car to date. We had a chance to visit the BMW driving academy in Munich and test one out for ourselves. BMW claims that the F82 M4 GTS is the most powerful and agile midsize coupe they’ve ever created. With a whopping 493 horsepower at the disposal of your right foot, no one is doubting that claim. But what’s even more impressive than that power figure is the weight reduction. BMW has managed to shave 200 pounds from the M4 with the GTS. When you consider how light the M4 is, especially compared to its rivals, you begin to appreciate that figure even more.
First of all, there’s the look. It’s not exactly what you’d call elegant or understated. In fact, it’s oozing with aggression and anger. It’s a mean looking car, there’s no two ways about it. But then again, that’s kind of the theme with the GTS. It’s the ultimate version of the best performance coupe, so you would expect it. The new paint scheme uses the same traditional GTS colors, except now it’s the wheels which are orange and the body is gray. You can make your own opinion for the exterior, but it certainly looks the part. You would never mix this up with a standard M4. It’s not the paint which is the only difference however. The wheels have been specially designed for the new GTS and so has the rear wing. Mind you, it’s not just a visual upgrade. It’s as functional as it is good looking. New paint schemes and a big wing are always exciting, but they’re not the big news with the M4 GTS. That’s because the GTS is the first legal road car which features BMW’s new water injection system. If you’re unfamiliar with what that is and what it does, here’s the short explanation.
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Water gets absorbed from the surrounding air before it’s sprayed into the intake manifold in the form of small drops (mist). Because the intake is hotter, the water immediately evaporates, subsequently lowering the intake air’s temperature. This creates a larger safe zone for the engine’s operating temperature, since the effective gap between the normal operating temperature and the maximum one has been raised. This allowed BMW to push the turbochargers and the engine a little bit more than they normally would have. This results in 493 horsepower and 442 lb-ft of torque, a substantial increase over the standard M4’s figures. The engine is basically the same, no internal modifications have been implemented. The 68 hp and 36 lb-ft of torque spike is down to the new tech which allowed for more boost from the turbochargers as well as better spark timing. As we all know, power is only part of the equation when it comes to a great performance car. And what’s a hardcore M4 GTS without a suspension upgrade? The new GTS now gets a three-way adjustable M suspension, which can be optimized for road or track use. We did try the road setting, and it was surprisingly comfortable and compliant, but this car begs to be driven hard. Switch it over to track mode and it suddenly wakes up. Everything stiffens and sharpens. The car becomes an extension of your body, reacting to your every input. Yes, it sounds cliché, but that’s really what it feels like. The front is riding on 19-inch wheels wrapped on 235 section Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, with the back sitting on even bigger 20-inch wheels, again wrapped around the same rubber but since it’s the back, they’re 285 section tires. Throw in a super-fast and responsive 7-speed DCT to the mix and you get a car which is capable of annihilating the legendary Nurburgring Nordschleife in only 7 minutes and 28 seconds. The BMW Organic Lights with OLED technology are making their debut on the GTS too. OLEDs are a big improvement over standard LED lights. They offer more visibility and are more adjustable. Instead of shooting light out like beams as with LED, OLEDs have a nice, even, homogeneous distribution of light. The gained advantages don’t compromise light quality in any way. As an added bonus, you can trigger them individually, making for some rather unique lighting combinations on the taillights.
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The 200 pound weight reduction can be attributed to a few areas. Firstly, the GTS is now a two-seater. The rear seats had to go, but it’s not a big deal if you think about it. Hardly anyone ever uses them in the standard M4, let alone a hardcore GTS. The front seats meanwhile have been replaced with lightweight carbon fiber bucket seats. BMW reckons they weight twice as less as the standard ones. The door panels received a massive change too, and are now as minimalistic as they can get. The new vented bonnet is made out of carbon fiber as well, saving additional weight over the standard aluminum one, as much as 25%. All aero additions (front and back) are also made out of carbon fiber. This makes their combined weight (front-splitter and rear wing) less than a single aluminum wing. Talk about extreme. Oh, and let’s not forget that the roof is made out of CFRP too (carbon fiber reinforced plastic). Add everything together and you get the 200 pounds we mentioned. There are just three color options to choose from: Sapphire Black metallic, Frozen Dark Grey metallic and Alpine white. If you plan to track the car on the regular, the Clubsport package is ideal for you. It adds an orange roll cage, a race-spec six-point harnesses and even a fire extinguisher. It’s overkill for the road, but perfect for track duty.
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By now you’re probably drooling over it. It’s okay, we were too. Unfortunately, you probably won’t be able to buy it even if you have loads of cash. Only 700 of them exist, 300 of which are US-spec. If you’re lucky enough to own, make sure you don’t crash it. The fact that they’re as rare as a unicorn means that their value will go up substantially in the future.
CAR REVIEW
The fact that they’re as rare as a unicorn means that their value will go up substantially in the future
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2016
MITSUBISHI MONTERO S ADVENTURE BY: Tarek Hawchar | Photos: Natali Leonova
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he Montero SUV is the Pajero’s little brother, and the recent increase in midsize SUV popularity made it a large success for the company. The new Montero Sport is marketed as one of the best SUVs in its respective segment, and it certainly looks like that on paper, but is it really? Recently, we took it on and adventure across Qatar to discover if it has what it takes to impress us. Before we begin, we need to get something straight. Although it has an S, for “Sport” in its name, it has nothing to do with actual sporty performance, like a Lancer Evolution for instance. You just have to take one look at it, and that much is immediately apparent. It certainly wasn’t designed with sporting credentials in mind. The large, tall shape is a dead giveaway. That said however, don’t immediately mark it as a marketing trick, because the Montero is sporty in its own way. First things first, we had to drive it on the road a bit. Even if you are to take it off-roading, chances are you’ll have to drive on the road to get there. This is a road car first, and everything else second, so it simply has to perform well there. And we’re glad to report that it does what it’s intended to do. The ride is nice and comfortable, it doesn’t roll too much in the corners, and you can even push it a bit if you really want to. Make no mistake, it’s nowhere near as dynamically pleasing as something like an X5 or even an F-150, but it certainly isn’t bad. Compared to the standard Pajero, a bulky and heavy thing, the Montero really is what you’d call sporty. It’s way less utilitarian, handling more like a road car and less like a truck.
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CAR REVIEW
Montero S is to the Pajero what the Range Rover is to the Land Rovers
In some ways, the Montero S is to the Pajero what the Range Rover is to the Land Rovers. Thanks to the tasteful chrome at the front, fresher styling and a much more appealing interior, it offers an up-market look that you simply don’t get with the Pajero. It’s newer, and it certainly looks like it. It’s Mitsubishi’s best looking SUV to date, but it does lack a bit of design compared to its rivals. Getting back to the adventure, and our first encounter with an off-road surface. Although Qatar is mainly surrounded by sand-filled deserts, we did find a nice farm with green grass and even some muddy bits to test the Montero S at. We expected the Montero S to be rather good in this kind of environment, but we were pleasantly surprised to find out that it’s even better than we hoped it would be. The flagship 3.0 liter V6 MIVEC engine produces 161 kW and 285 Nm of torque,
more than enough to propel the relatively light SUV through even the slipperiest of surfaces with no issues. Naturally, the four-wheel drive system helped out a lot, as it did its job wonderfully and was able to send the power to the right wheel all of the time, giving us massive grip under any circumstances. We suspect that the two-wheel drive variants are just as good with light off-roading, but for more serious driving, you will definitely need the all-wheel drive system. It isn’t as complicated or as advanced as some of the other AWD systems we’ve tested, but you can look at that as an advantage. You have fewer things to set up, and the chances of it failing are relatively low.
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The Montero S is one of the most affordable vehicles in its segment, making it a bargain every way you look at it
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The Montero S can be spec’d with two different 2.5 liter fourcylinder diesels in some markets, producing 100 kW and 326 Nm of torque in the 4D56 diesel and 133 kW with 430 Nm of torque at around 2,500 rpms in the more powerful 2.5 liter unit. Although the torque should be good, there’s no substitute for horsepower. The V6 MIVEC engine is the only option if you’re after a petrol variant, as well as something bigger than a four-cylinder. You do sacrifice some torque compared to the diesel, but the extra power more than makes up for it. If you’re willing to rev it out to get the most, it’s great. All engines are available in both two-wheel drive, as well as four-wheel drive configurations. The AWD system will result in a minor power loss, as power gets diverted to all fourwheels, but the added security and capability it provides is more than worth it. Our short time in the Montero S taught us a few things. Firstly, you don’t need to have a big, expensive SUV specifically built for off-roading to have some fun on the rough stuff. The Montero S is one of the most affordable vehicles in its segment, making it a bargain every way you look at it. The value for money is simply
unbelievable. It provides more capability and fun than a lot of its competitors, while being a lot cheaper. We won’t even mention Mitsubishi’s impeccable reliability record, as it’s a given. Second, off-roading doesn’t have to be reserved just for certain people. If you own an SUV, regardless if its 4WD or 2WD, you can, and should, take it off-roading. Even a country such as Qatar has lots of diverse things to offer if you’re willing to explore it a bit. We didn’t test the Montero in the sand, but we’re relatively sure that it would perform reasonably well, given you respect its boundaries and treat it as a light-off roader, not a full-blown one. After all, manufacturers design them with certain off-road capabilities in mind, and it would be a real shame to never use them. The lesson here is that anyone can take their SUV off-roading, regardless of what they drive, how old they are or what they do. All it takes is the right mindset. A good adventure doesn’t depend on the car or the actual places you’re visiting as much as it depends on the people, on you.
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RATED XF
WE SPEND SOME QUALITY TIME IN JAG’S LUXE SALOON BY: Adel Habib | Photos: Malek Fayoumi
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here’s really nothing like a Jaguar these days, which is, I think, exactly what JLR our counting on. Sure, there are other luxury brands, some of them with British motoring heritage. But driving a Jag taps into something both refined and, primal, at least when they do a good job of it. Sure, there were some bad years, but the present and future have been looking quite bright for some time now, and I was reminded of this as I piloted the XF around ever-changing Dubai. The XF arrived with 9,800 km on the clock, and I returned it with around 14,850 km, making more than a few runs between Abu Dhabi and Dubai for work few times, as well as Al Wathba Cycling park early morning in the weekends, and to Yas Marina circuit during the weekdays for cycling. One minor complaint— my bike didn’t quite fit in the boot. As per the spec minions at Jag, the XF offers best in class interior at the behest of JLR’s novel aluminium-leaning architecture. The car sheds 190kg over its antecedent, increasing torsional stiffness by the same stroke. Granted, it’s not an apples to apples comparo, as the new car is 7.0mm shorter and 3.0mm lower than the outgoing XF, while boasting 51mm longer wheelbase.
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With JLR chuffed about its innovative Ingenium family of four-cylinder engines, it’s no surprise that the Coventry based carmaker is eager to point out the cars improved efficiency. If you read our review of the smaller XE, this will be a familiar theme. The four-banger will do 340bhp, or if you’re feeling more ambitious Jag’s 3.0-litre supercharged V6 is good for 380bhp with their eight-speed automatic box. The fuel tank is 66 litres, and with 120 AED worth of 98 octane I found I could consistently get about 600 km out of it on a highway— or even more if you cruise at 120km/h or less. The ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission will make you faster, have no doubt, as this impressive bit of tech all but obsoletes its own paddles, except perhaps when you just have to push it all the way to redline. The gearbox is not the smoothest out there, with a noticeable lag of nearly 1.5 sec when you open the throttle, and feels a bit aggressive for daily driving. With the V6, peak torque is available at 4,500rpm and peak power hits up around 5,500rpm. That means you’re in for a serenade when you pour it on, and this kitty purrs properly, especially in sport mode.
CAR REVIEW
The car has plenty of push, and the power supply is linear and vital throughout the gears. The supercharged V6 makes quite a good first impression— it’s quick, responsive and pairs well with this sporty saloon. We’d hazard to declare that it’s actually an improvement on the old 5.0-litre V8. The engine is so powerful, you can feel it on the highway when restarting the cruise control from 80kph to 140kph, the car runs back up to speed so smoothly, without downshifting and spriting like many cars would. With it’s largely aluminium structure, utilizing 75 percent of the light stuff to achieve (very nearly) 50:50 front-to-rear weight distribution. You can option their adaptive suspension system, which sets the dampers dynamically along the spectrum of comfort and sportiness. Jaguar Configurable Dynamics, which was introduced with the mighty F-type, tuning the chassis, steering, engine and transmission to the driver’s pleasure. Steering is propped up by a new fully electric, power-assisted setup that offers a variety of driving assistance functions, improved efficiency, and the ability to irritate luddite purists.
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The car has 4 driving modes, snow or multi surface mode, ECO, Normal, and Dynamic mode, with the console lights changing from green to red when you select Dynamic. We drove the car 99% of time in ECO mode which was already quick enough. In fact, we found all the modes so similar that we wondered why not just make Eco the default and do away with normal— who wants a normal Jaguar anyway? This car is meant to be Jag’s 5-Series slayer— an appealing contemporary alternative to the dominating Teutonic execusled. Like that storied German car, the XF does a good job being all things to all drivers: the rear-drive chassis is well balanced, the steering has decent feel and the suspension’s ability to mitigate a rutted Sharjah road without getting too aggressive is very pleasing. The ride might be a tad rigid, but it’s more than acceptable overall. The interior is on the cool, sophisticated end of the spectrum— it’s not flashy, or all that colourful, but it’s also quite easy on the eyes. The cabin ties in nicely with the current litter of Jags, and comes packed with new features like the new Connected Car multi-media system, an eight-inch hi-def touchscreen with updated mobile syncing capabilities, in-car mobile wi-fi, voice control, optional head-up display and much more.
The ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission will make you faster
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CAR REVIEW
The XF makes you feel like driving the car is an event— the vents turn to open when you fire up the car, the gear selector ascends from the dash to meet your grip— stepping into the car, as soon as you open the rather solid-feeling door, you will notice the remarkable curve of the car surrounding you at every angle, giving you the feeling of a refined embrace. And sure, there could be more headroom in the rear seats, but even if you’re a tall person stuffed back there you’ll notice the interior fit and finish is first rate, with none of the clapped together quality that plagued the Ford era cars. Jaguar hadn’t been earning a lot of points for its old infotainment system, so nerds everywhere rejoiced when the InControl Touch Pro system rolled out with its 10.2in touchscreen. The system features Dual View ala Range Rover, which means your passenger can watch Survivor on their side without subjecting you to a bunch of sweaty people in their bathing suits (although you may still wish to vote your neighbour out of the car.) Our car had the narrower screen, and we found the the multimedia system quite easy to use, if a bit unreliable. The Meridian sound system offer powerful and pure sound, and the phone to it automatically connects via bluetooth quite quickly, making just about every other system we can think of seem slow.
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Our answer? Love is in the air, baby— love is in the air.
Like any Jag, this car is meant to balance luxury with drivers appeal, so the XF manages to both soothe or titillate, depending on your mood. It’s quiet enough for long commutes, and very stable at speed, but there’s excitement there when you want it. And yes, this is a worthy rival for the 5 series, and the many other excellent cars in the consideration set. And yet, there is nothing quite like driving a red Jaguar— S Class pilots in their muted tones, and Lexus lovers deked in white will turn and look at your crimson chariot, they can’t actually help it. You’ll even start dressing the part, making sure your outfit goes with the car. The XF starts near the top of the pricing pyramid, but it delivers quite a lot on its value proposition. So the real question is, could a luxury car buyer fall head over heels with the XF? Because that’s the kind of emotion that should be requisite at the price point. Our answer? Love is in the air, baby— love is in the air.
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ROAD TRIP GMC ACADIA / INFINITI Q60 / NISSAN PATROL
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ROAD TRIP THIS MONTH
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SUBLIME IN SAN DIEGO
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Look at the Q60 for long, and you may find yourself mesmerized by it’s almost architectural shape.
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an Diego is shining— it has that glossy, casual ease of a second city known for perfect weather and, well, a seemingly perfect lifestyle. Which is what makes it such a good spot for testing out the new Q60, Infiniti’s Europe-assaulting sports coupé designed to bring a little taste of the good life to whoever is lucky enough to take the wheel. Roland Krueger, President of Infiniti, seems to agree: “INFINITI has always been at the forefront of daring design and pioneering technology – and the Q60 again offers both. We believe the Q60‘s qualities and core strengths – the way it looks and drives – will appeal to buyers in the premium sports coupe segment.” Look at the Q60 for long, and you may find yourself mesmerized by it’s almost architectural shape. The aesthetic represents a heightened example of Infiniti’s “Powerful Elegance” design language, with taut, muscular lines and distinctive proportions. At the heart of the car is an all-new lightweight and sophisticated “VR30” 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine, which plays a key role in the Q60’s engaging yet refined drive experience. Lower and wider than previous INFINITI coupes, the Q60’s bold exterior expresses ‘Powerful Elegance’ – an INFINITI design language which gives the sports coupe a sinewy athleticism, confidently projecting a sense of motion and power. Dynamic developments include the lightweight and sophisticated new V6 engine, the latest version of Direct Adaptive Steering, and a digital suspension system.
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The new engine, from the new and exclusive “VR” powertrain family, continues the brand’s longstanding heritage of advanced six-cylinder powertrain production. This new V6 is available in two states of tune – either 300 hp or 400 hp – and has been engineered to offer superior levels of power and torque, coupled with high standards of efficiency. The Q60 Red Sport, which we previously reported on from the Geneva show, features the higher-powered 400 hp V6 engine, which provides the car with one of the best power-to-efficiency ratings in the sports coupe class. Power is delivered to the rear wheels, but there’s an all-wheel drive is optional if you’re planning to take your car to the Alps, or just really love AWD. The Q60 is also available with the company’s second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering – comprehensively modified from the ground-breaking firstgeneration system – and Infiniti’s new Dynamic Digital Suspension, which gives the sports coupe an optimal blend of ride comfort and class-leading response and agility. The Q60 has the immediacy and handling of a European sports coupe, with its well steering, compliant ride and agile handling. At the heart of these qualities is the car’s Dynamic Digital Suspension (DDS), engineered to offer direct handling responses and high agility, and enhanced ride comfort – aided by new electronic and adaptive dampers.
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About that sharp, weighty steering feel— the car is equipped with Infiniti’s second-generation Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS), which according to Infiniti, affords the driver “high levels of feedback and more direct steering responses in the Q60.” I;m not sure feel is the right word, but the directness is impressive and it’s exciting to see ‘steer-by-wire’ systems improving as the technology matures. DAS does away with mechanically linked parts, instead employing digital components to improve steering feel and feedback. The connection between the driver and DAS is instantaneous, thanks to the electronic connection between components. Inside the car is chock full of technology— Infiniti says innovation facilitates comfort and convenience, providing a refined and contemporary space for driver and passengers alike,” and I’m not inclined to argue. A newly-enhanced Drive Mode Selector gives drivers the option to personalize and tailor DDS and DAS performance according to their needs and preferred driving style. The car further boasts a new 13-speaker Bose audio system, fitted to production vehicle for the first time, newly-designed high-back, high-bolster seats provide unrivalled spinal support, and ‘InTouch’ connectivity features enable remote control of some Q60 functions with a smartphone. Of particular interest to those of us sensitive to noise, or just on the phone a lot, is that Infiniti engineers have worked to minimize Q60’s noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) levels. In particular, NVH has been improved with the adoption of significant
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suspension insulation and stiffer cross-members, as well as wheel spokes designed to dampen vibrations. Active Noise Cancellation is fitted to all Q60 models, effectively preventing negative engine noise frequencies from disturbing the calm of the cabin. OK, I know what you’re thinking, this is a Sports Coupé, you want to hear it roar. In Sport mode the Q60 has a little more sonic boom to offer, but this is ultimately a fairly dignified beast, so you might consider a pony car if you really require the thunder. That said, the Q60 is both luxurious and fun to drive, a very appealing combo that is sure to catch on.
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The Q60 has the immediacy and handling of a European sports coupe, with its well steering, compliant ride and agile handling
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Acadian Accent GMCs new take on the refined family hauler By Adel Habib 122 ISSUE 5 / maqinaonline.com
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he scenery around Sedona is monumental— red rock buttes reach up to the sky from the pine forest. Steep canyon walls give the place a feeling of sanctuary, and it’s the kind of place where one could seemingly sit forever in thrall to the natural beauty. But then, after an hour of waiting for lunch to be served, everyone is back to staring at their screens and the head waiter keeps whispering ominously in the ear of the maitre’d. Ah paradise, how fleeting your charms can be on an empty stomach. And while it was no one’s fault, well maybe the restaurant’s, after a quick bit it was time to mount up in my trusty steed (for a few days) the 2017 GMC Acadia.
On this trip we took GMC’s all new Acadia all over the American southwest, from Sedona to the Grand Canyon, to historic Route 66 and finally glittering Las Vegas. This is a slightly softer-looking GMC, a family friendly hauler that is 318 Kg. lighter, more efficient, and aimed at the heart of midsize crossover segment. GMC has added a raft of available active safety features, including Front Pedestrian Braking and Surround Vision Camera to the Acadia, and the car feels solid, inspiring confidence and comfort. Granted, the road noise seemed a tad loud at times, and the ride quality could be a tad jarring on rougher roads, but that just leaves a little head room for the Cadillac. maqinaonline.com / ISSUE 5 123
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spent my time with the Acadia Denali with its new new, Continuously Variable Ride Control, a close cousin of Magnetic Ride Control. This iteration is full of technology, with its twin clutch AWD system and the ability to run the car in FWD for fuel savings. The car will so 11.2 L/100km on the combined cycle for the FWD models and 11.7 L/100km for AWD. Our region gets the 310 HP 3.6L V6 powertrain, which gives the Acadia plenty of go when you need it, but doesn’t feel particularly forceful during normal duties.
“The all new Acadia has a very commanding presence on the road driven by muscular forms that give the vehicle a very planted and confident stance,” said Matt Noone, director, GMC Exterior Design. “The new design does a great job of projecting the message that Acadia has new levels of refinement, capability and performance in store for our customers.” We’d tend to agree, and the move seems on trend for the crossover buying market— in a segment that is meant to appeal broadly, a little less mance is par for the course.
Some of that’s down to the 6-speed automatic transmission, a step down from the 8-speed in the XT5. But GM has an answer for that: the six is better for towing. I didn’t have a boat, or an XT5 handy, so I can’t confirm or deny this assertion.GMC says the Acadia offers 1800 Kilograms of estimated trailering capability (with the available towing package). Anyway, the six is decent enough, and I found it to be fairly seamless, allowing me to “shift by throttle” more or less.
The Acadia has an architectural smoothness with its dimensional grilles and wraparound headlamps, and manages to look ready for business or pleasure. Its confident, refined appearance is augmented with LED signature lighting, as with all GMCs, so you’ll see ‘em coming from far away from dusk till dawn.
Inside, all Acadia trim levels get appealing interior color and trim combinations and incorporate aluminum trim for a premium vibe. As this is a family friendly crossover, the 50/50-split third-row seat folds flat for a completely flat load floor behind the second row and when the second row is folded, there is 2,237 liters of cargo room. Levers at the rear of the vehicle make it easier to fold the second- and thirdrow seats. The rear of the center console, features a pull-out storage drawer for all your goodies and is accessible to rear-seat passengers and allows items such as electronic devices and small toys to be stored out of sight, for greater security and reduced clutter. The new Acadia also gets a standard rear seat alert that can remind the driver when an item may have been left in the second- and third-row seats. Additionally, all three rows offer USB charge ports for compatible electronic devices. The new Acadia is more refined than some of it’s tougher looking GMC cousins, but stays true to the family resemblance overall. Design cues like the chrome-trimmed grille, squared off and flared wheel arches and a wraparound rear side windows with dark D-pillars make it clear that this is a GMC, but one that is slightly more inclined to attend a Streisand concert.
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Speaking of dusk, it was almost dark when I angled my shiny Acadia up to the edge of the Grand Canyon and stared off into the vibrant abyss. Acadia might look a tad less like it’s supposed to be leading an expedition down to the Colorado River, that muddy brown string of water that yet carves the canyon floor. But the truth is, you can drive seven people, hopefully a few of them on the smaller side, right up to a natural wonder like this is comfort and style, tunes blaring on Apple Carplay, AC keeping everyone at the optimal temperature. Some SUVs are meant to conquer nature, and while the Acadia can do a bit of that, it’s more about attending to human nature— proving the ability to get from A to Z with all the creature comforts you could answer. In that regard, I have no doubt that the new Acadia is a success. This is a car that is equally happy staring down one of the world’s natural wonders as it is cruising the streets of Vegas, an unnatural wonder is ever there was one. From desert to Dolce and Gabana in the span of two days— sound familiar Dubai?
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OMANI PATROL
DRIVING THE NISSAN PATROL IN AWESOME OMAN By Adel Habib
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he name Patrol inspires trust, a vehicle that may not have a destination, but assuredly has the ability to get you there— wherever ‘there’ might be. This robust all-terrain Sport Utility Vehicle got its start in 1951, as the sort of body-on-frame/ adapted truck platform that we associate with difficult off-road duties. Over the years, and too many iterations to number, the Patrol has changed in many ways, but has always stayed the course— eschewing the broader trend towards unibody construction for a time and sticking to proper truck style to body on frame fabrication. You can see what’s coming right? This SUV will Patrol anywhere you like, just maybe not trendy territory. That said, it looks pretty swanky
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inside the belly of this beastly family hauler. The front cabin of the Nissan Patrol is palatial, each seat a throne fit for those long suffering kings and queens of domesticity known as Mom and Dad. From here, much of the literal and metaphoric navigation of family life takes place. You ferry the tots form event to event, argue about the best cheeseburger in Dubai, teach the little ones not to draw on the leather, or wipe their noses on the car seats (which they should be wearing, thank you very much). Surely, the driver has it easier, the wheel at hand lends a sense of control while you’re spouse is no doubt twisted around in his or her seat half the time, trying to either discipline or feed the children. It sounds like torture, but those of us who are parents know that it’s also incredibly rewarding.
ROA D T R I P Ubiquitous on GCC roads, the Nissan Patrol is seemingly just as popular with the single lads and ladies, and for good reason, as it’s an extremely capable and spacious ride. It also has a new engine variant for 2017, with the base model downsizing to a 4.0-litre V6 good for 270 bhp and 290 lb ft. The V6 isn’t a new power plant for Nissan, but is adapted from the smaller Xterra. Previously, the popular SUV’s most affordable trim level ran on a 5.6-liter 320bhp V8. Also gone is the sixspeed manual transmission, the Patrol will be sold with a seven-speed automatic across the range. Broadly speaking, smaller engines are on course for tightening emissions standards, but it remains to be seen how the UAE market will react. Nissan has a plan for that; the carmaker is Launching the 2017 Patrol V6 exclusively in the UAE in September, but will roll out the SUV in other markets thereafter. Which is why it’s terrific that the Patrol is packed full of features that make anyone’s life easier. Personally, I consider the SUV’s sharp new look to be a lifestyle friendly feature since, er, smoe of us don’t always manage to get out of the house looking our best. The car’s revised front bumper and tough looking chrome grille pattern hopefully undercut the inevitable messy hair or sweat pants on the Spinney’s run, as the car takes centre stage as the most attention grabbing character.
The Patrol boasts machine cut alloy wheels, LED headlamps with daytime running light and a set of pop-up headlamp washers that will give you just a tiny bit more time to focus on raising your kids (unless you’re already outsourcing both jobs). LED rear combination lamp and roof rails fill out the range of new features that help make this the best generation of Patrol yet. Modern life can be, let’s face it, extremely distracting in the car, so 3rd generation Around View Monitor with parking assist display and Backup Collision Intervention (BCI) is like a second set of eyes, looking out for you when someone or something gets on the way of reversing. This SUV is full of additional safety features, which are always a welcome addition to any vehicle. For instance, in the event of an accident the car senses a collision and unlocks the doors so everyone can get out quickly as the situation dictates. There’s also tyre pressure monitoring, distance control assist to predefine your following distance and adjust to slowing traffic. Add to the list blind spot warning and intervention to let you know when something you can’t see might be too close for comfort, or at least a lane change, intelligent brake assist to mitigate collision when all else fails, as well as active head restraints to reduce whiplash-type injuries. In short the Patrol presents an excellent package for protecting your greatest investment: you and the people in your life.
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Everyone, childless or otherwise, can benefit especially from owning a Patrol in our sandy region as the car allows unfettered access to our greatest natural resources. No, not the oil and gas, but rather the desert itself— a shifting playground for outdoors lovers and off-roaders alike. Slap the Patrol in 4-Lo and select your terrain type and this rather large SUV can tackle all sorts of steep climbs and harrowing descents. Whether or not you bring the children on that kind of escapade is entirely up to you— just go easy on the throttle either way. Actually, there’s an easy way to take throttle and brake response out of the equation, as the Patrol’s hill descent mode will dribble you down the side of Mount Olympus at a lugubrious pace.
The 2017 Patrol will start at around Dhs. 175,000 and sell for up to Dhs. 255,000 for the range topping Platinum models with options like rear screens, cooled seats, larger rims and much more. These better equipped Patrols will continue to feature Nissan’s 5.6-litres V8, with the NISMO iteration producing a healthy 428bhp. During our Omani road trip, the Patrol was a comfy and willing companion, we fully expect the new Patrol to remain a GCC favourite.
During our Omani road trip, the Patrol was a comfy and willing companion, we fully expect the new Patrol to remain a GCC favourite.
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BY AIR, LAND, OR SEA
MERC’S TAKE ON YACHTS AND LUXURY PLANES
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t the top of its range, Mercedes-Benz is a high flying luxury brand, well known for stylishly sailing the seas of wealth. True, you could have said that about Merc last year and been just as correct, but now the celebrated carmaker has pulled off no less than two world premieres at the Monaco Yacht Show. One by land, and another by sea. First off, MercedesBenz Style and Lufthansa Technik have teamed up to present the final interior design of a VIP aircraft cabin for short- and medium-haul flights. The realistic, virtual 3D presentation shows the VIP cabin that was developed with a focus on aircraft like the Airbus A320 and the Boeing 737. At the heart of the plane is a cabin concept created for 16 passengers that pushes the boundaries beyond the previously familiar dimensions of aircraft interiors.
yacht and aircraft cabin bring MercedesBenz Sensual Purity design concepts to new contexts, and with compelling results. “With the yacht and the aircraft cabin we have transferred our philosophy of Sensual Purity to the ship and aircraft design,” said Gorden Wagener, Head of Design of Daimler AG. “The creation was an inspiring challenge and we have created products that reveal a perfect contemporary luxury – hot and cool.” In partnership with Lufthansa Technik, the traditional separation of ceiling, wall and floor is entirely replaced by a dynamically styled, spiral layout. The interior appointments fit the cabin organically and homogeneously like a DNA helix. The individual spatial elements flow into one another. This gives rise to new, independent zones without the characteristic aircraft arrangement of seats and walls.
Second, Silver Arrows Marine (SAM) is presenting the motor yacht “ARROW460 – Granturismo,” AKA the Edition 1 model, which undertook its maiden voyage back in April 2016.The
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When entering the cabin, the air passenger is met by a wide, open welcome zone, which also encompasses a galley, a kitchen, a private room and a bathroom. Behind the lounge and dining areas, the cabin is divided up into a separate room with entertainment and information technology, and the guests’ private area. The bathroom and bedroom feature an open-plan design around a free-standing shower with transparent walls. A special highlight is the large, luxurious bed with its concave, upholstered headboard. Featuring numerous details, all the furniture with its sensuous clarity of design merges with the cabin interior. The cabin windows are concealed by black panels that are inspired by the screen design of the MercedesBenz SClass. Due to the Mercedes-Benz Magic Sky technology the panels can be dimmed electrically from black to transparent. Screens and touchscreens for infotainment can be seamlessly integrated into the black panels. The overall design is characterised by the aesthetic appeal of state-of-the-art luxury embodied in MercedesBenz. “Together with Mercedes-Benz Style we plan to target this innovative concept at a private global clientele with a strong affinity for unique design. It is precisely customers from the VIP and VVIP sector who today want innovative and extraordinary design solutions for their aeroplanes. With our modular concept we offer the ideal solution for the most discerning demands, whether that be for private or business use,” commented Wieland Timm, Vice President Sales VIP & Special 134 ISSUE 5 / maqinaonline.com
In Monaco Mercedes-Benz Style and Silver Arrows Marine are showing the interior of the “ARROW460 – Granturismo” motor yacht for the first time. It combines the advantages of a sporty, open boat with the spacious interior and the private sphere of a luxurious trunk cabin cruiser. This makes the yacht, which offers room for up to ten passengers, suitable both for day trips as well as for multi-day excursions. The interior is characterised by a high degree of variability. The large side windows are retractable, and the windscreen can be raised. This enables the passengers to sit comfortably in the interior with an all-round view and the feeling of sitting in the open. Comfort comes courtesy of a luxurious bathroom and a separate multifunctional console. The yacht is also fully equipped with all relevant equipment for comfort, entertainment and leisure. Wood is used as a trim material throughout the entire interior. Through a three-dimensional application, the grain of the eucalyptus wood follows the overarching forms of the interior lining, underscoring the overall flow of the interior. For the floor covering a sustainable composite material was chosen, and the designers refined it with a flowing decor and a harmonious colour combination. The glazing is also characterised by a new type of technology. Light transmission can be controlled electronically in the same way as the MercedesBenz Magic Sky technology; at the same time the shimmering silver glazing is seamlessly integrated in the overall silhouette.
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“By blending the maritime and automotive world with their respective design idioms, technologies and ideas we have created a new standard for motor yachts. The ‘ARROW460 – Granturismo’ blends maritime engineering artistry with charismatic design and perfect elegance, familiar from the world of MercedesBenz,” said Ron Gibbs, Chairman of Silver Arrows Marine. SAM will be starting production of the yacht in the coming months. The first yachts will be delivered to customers in the second half of 2017. During the Yacht Show the boat is open for all interested visitors.
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GEARBOX
Tech / Clothing / Shoes / Gears / Bags
OAKLEY METALWORKS CARABINER Oakley has a history of working with metal, so it only makes sense that they’d apply their skills to something other than eyewear. The Oakley Metalworks Carabiner is a prime example. Crafted from riveted stainless steel, it has a forged gate with a goldcolored screw lock, as well as a bottle opener and eyelet built-in. It’s not meant for climbing, but its antique silver finish does make it ideal for securing gear in settings where looks can be as important as functionality. Price: QAR365 www.oakley.com
GOOGLE DAYDREAM VIEW VR HEADSET Daydream View is a VR headset and controller by Google that lets you explore new worlds, kick back in your personal VR cinema, and play games that put you at the center of action.
Price: QAR 290 www.madeby.google.com/vr
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RICHARD MILLE 63-02 WORLD TIMER Designed for frequent travellers and others alike, this timepiece made a strong impression on the press thanks to its remarkably easy to use multi-time-zone mechanism. When designing the RM 58-01, Richard Milleís goal was to simplify the setting of this complication as much as possible, notably by removing the need for a pusher in activating the time zone function. The RM 63-02 World Timer repeats this exercise, incorporating the World Timer function at the heart of a brand new automatic in-house movement.
www.richardmille.com
EL PRIMERO | RANGE ROVER An iconic silhouette, charisma, technical refinement and remarkable performance: in addition to their birth year (1969), the iconic El Primero and Range Rover share a number of other key assets. To celebrate their partnership, Manufacture Zenith is unveiling an El Primero Range Rover Special Edition. In tribute to the first luxury SUV, its brushed grey dial bears the inscription ìZenith Range Roverî.
www.zenith-watches.com
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DASHBOARD
DASHING: MARKED BY UP-TO-DATENESS IN DRESS AND MANNERS BY: DR.MARIE ABOU RACHED
MOBILE PHONE Threatens Your Life While Driving
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ave you ever been nearly involved to have an accident while you were using a mobile phone during driving? Have you ever chosen an undesired wrong direction while having a phone conversation? Statistics show that more than 1,200,000 casualties occur every year by car accidents. Which means that more than 3000 casualties are killed or severely injured and disabled due to negligence and lack of attention? The road is witnessing an increase of accidents that is caused by distraction. Distraction is one of the most dangerous factors that cause accidents. Most of those distractions are due to use of mobile phones. Studies showed in 2014, that 20 percent of road accidents are due to distraction. It has been noticed that the number of people using their mobiles phone keep on increasing. Studies illustrate that more than 10 percent of drivers use their cell phones while driving. Having a phone call will increase four times the risk level of having a crash. Drivers on the phone will have similar attentiveness to a drunk driver, as he won’t have the ability to recognize things in the peripheral.
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Several authors have proven that the negative influence of using a cell phone has the same effect on driving whether the phone is hands-free or handheld model. As per scientists, have a conversation on a mobile phone while driving, will lead the brain to a huge competition listening carefully to the conversation and focusing on the road. Besides, more than 20 percent of reaction’s delay occurs by talking on the phone.
Reading a text message while the car is moving can distract the driver more than 5 seconds each time, while less than a second is enough to have a high risk to have an accident.
Reading a text message while driving with a speed of 90 km per hour will be as much as crossing the length of a football field without looking at the road. Moreover having a full concentration on the road while driving will prevent accidents caused by others.
Researchers found that the risk of having a car accident while texting is increased 23 times.
Dialing a number will increase more than 2.7 times the risk of a crash
The use of mobile phone during driving can destructively change your life within a second.
This is our responsibility toward our families and other passengers on the road; therefore we must have consistency in our commitment to focus and not to be distracted. Simultaneously, we have to abide to the rules of each country.
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