January 5, 2007
Robb Report Editors Name Bentley Continental GTC 2007 Car of the Year : GlobalGiants.com
Maybach 57S, Bugatti Veyron 16.4, Porsche 911 Turbo, and Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG Place in Top Five.
MALIBU, Calif., Jan. 5 -- The editors of Robb Report have selected the Bentley Continental GTC as the magazine's 2007 Car of the Year, citing "remarkable drivability, superb handling, a clean and well-executed design, and minimal performance concessions in the interest of open-air driving."
The award is presented annually to an automobile, formally introduced in the previous year, whose technical designs, styling, and performance position it as the world's preeminent sports or luxury car. The February issue of Robb Report, on stands January 23, announces the 2007 Car of the Year and offers automotive aficionados detailed analyses of each of the new models.
Robb Report editors and staff members, along with 41 car experts and enthusiasts, formed the panel of judges. They put 13 magnificent machines through two rigorous days of driving, rated them, and selected the one car they believed best combines elegance, style, and exquisite detailing with performance equal to the challenge of any mountain road or track.
Finalists in Robb Report's 2007 Car of the Year were: #13 Cadillac XLR-V; #12 Lotus Exige S; #11 Lamborghini Murcielago LP640; #10 Ford Shelby GT500; #9 Rolls-Royce Phantom EWB; #7 (tie) Jaguar XKR Convertible and BMW M6; #6 Audi S8; #5 Maybach 57S; #4 Bugatti Veyron 16.4; #3 Porsche 911 Turbo; and #2 Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG.
Robb Report is the international authority on the luxury lifestyle. Each month, the magazine reports on issues and trends affecting the affluent market, with coverage of exclusive events and features on exceptional automobiles, motorcycles, aircraft, art, jewelry, watches, fashion, travel, homes, wines, spirits, and cigars. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:02 PM | Link to this Post
2007 Chevrolet Camaro Concept : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: 2007 Chevrolet Camaro Concept. [GlobalGiants.com]
Photo: 2007 Chevrolet Camaro Concept. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:07 PM | Link to this Post
January 4, 2007
Mercedes-Benz sets new milestones in BLUETEC initiative : GlobalGiants.com
Presentation of another concept vehicle at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show.
Stuttgart, Germany -- Mercedes-Benz is continuing its US diesel initiative with the presentation of another concept vehicle at the 2007 Detroit Auto Show. The Vision GL 420 BLUETEC demonstrates that, thanks to BLUETEC technology, even large, high-performance SUVs can offer economical fuel consumption and extremely low emissions. Boasting a powerful V8 diesel engine, which develops 216 kW (290 hp) and 700 Nm (515 lb ft) of torque, the anticipated fuel efficiency for the new SUV is just 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres (24 mpg). This impressive combination of high power, torque, fuel economy and operating range ensures that Mercedes-Benz BLUETEC vehicles offer an ideal drive concept for the American market.
Photo: Mercedes-Benz Vision GL 420 BLUETEC
The unique styling of the Vision GL 420 BLUETEC adds visual emphasis to the special status of this model and also addresses the Mercedes-Benz USA customers' wish for vehicles with an even greater degree of exclusivity and a strong, individual identity. The revised, distinctively sculpted front with the dominant radiator grille serves as a visual idiom for the exceptional performance of the V8 diesel engine and lends the Vision GL 420 BLUETEC a sense of dynamic forward movement – even when stationary. This assertive look is complemented by the flared wings, imposing 21 inch wheels and running boards.
BLUETEC has met with an extremely positive response in USA: respected American science and technology magazines recognised the Mercedes-Benz-developed BLUETEC technology at the end of 2006. Scientific American selected BLUETEC as one of the top 50 scientific and technological innovations of 2006. Popular Science, the oldest and best-known American science magazine included BLUETEC in its annual "Best of What's New" list. And Ward's Automotive Group, a leading publisher of a number of media and trade magazines for the automotive industry, has nominated the E 320 BLUETEC engine for its list of ten best drive systems in 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:49 PM | Link to this Post
Lincoln MKR Concept : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The Lincoln MKR concept marks the rebirth of Lincoln with this romantic four-door coupe delivering elegant simplicity and modern refinement for the premium buyer. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 5:49 PM | Link to this Post
January 3, 2007
All-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible : GlobalGiants.com
• Chrysler brand reinforces its leadership position as America’s favorite convertible company with all-new Sebring Convertible.
• Three automatically latching tops, including a retractable hard top, can drop with the press of a button on the key fob.
• Spacious interior makes comfortable room for four adults; exceptional cargo room easily fits four golf bags, two golf bags when top is dropped.
• Exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency of 31 mpg and Flexible-fuel Vehicle (FFV) engine availability.
View Larger Picture of 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible
View Another Larger Picture of 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible
The Chrysler Sebring Convertible has long held the honor of America's favorite convertible, solidly leading the segment for the past decade. In fact, Sebring Convertible has earned the title of best-selling convertible in the United States for seven of the past 11 years. The 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible is poised to reign supreme when it becomes available in U.S. dealerships in the second quarter of 2007 and in global volume markets in the second half of 2007.
Photo: Joe Eberhardt, ÂChrysler Group Executive Vice President - Global Sales, Marketing and Service, and Actress Jennifer Love Hewitt introduce the all-new 2008 Chrysler Sebring Convertible to media at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show.
In markets outside North America, Sebring Convertible will be the first D-segment cabriolet for the Chrysler Group to offer both a diesel engine and right-hand-drive availability, thereby equipping the vehicle to become a stronger competitor in the segment.
Photo: Chrysler Sebring Convertible features class-leading innovations like the MyGIG™multi-media information center, a heated / cooled cupholder and room for two sets of golf clubs in the trunk even with the top down. A retractable hard top that can drop with the press of a button on the key fob is one of three automatically latching convertible top offerings. Sebring Convertible also offers exhilarating performance with excellent fuel efficiency of 31 mpg. A flexible-fuel vehicle (FFV) engine and, for the first time, a 3.5-liter V-6 engine also are available.
“America’s favorite convertible is now better than ever,” said George Murphy, Senior Vice President – Global Marketing, Chrysler Group. “The all-new Chrysler Sebring Convertible offers the unprecedented combination of unmistakable road presence, athletic handling, innovative technologies, as well as plenty of room for people and gear. In fact, the all-new Sebring Convertible is the only convertible in the segment that can pass the two-golf-bag test. The sky’s the limit on what this vehicle can accomplish in the marketplace.” [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 3:29 PM | Link to this Post
ALL-NEW 2008 CHEVROLET MALIBU : GlobalGiants.com
DELIVERS SEGMENT-TOPPING COMBINATION OF STYLE, PERFORMANCE AND FUEL ECONOMY.
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LT
View Larger Picture of 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LT
DETROIT – The all-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu delivers great performance, fuel economy and refinement, wrapped in a clean, tailored design that carries the new face of Chevrolet. The new Malibu will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show. It arrives at Chevrolet dealerships later this year.
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LT Front View
“The 2008 Malibu rewrites Chevrolet’s midsize car strategy, offering a stylish, uncompromising package that stacks up against the most popular competitors,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “We know the competition is very good, and this new Malibu has the goods – both tangible and intangible – to assert a leadership position in the segment and re-affirm Chevrolet’s commitment to expressive cars.”
Photo: 2008 Chevrolet Malibu LT Rear View
The 2008 Malibu brings a fresh perspective and new proportions to the midsize segment. It is more than three inches (76 mm) longer than the current model, with a six-inch-longer (162 mm) wheelbase that delivers a poised, wheels-at-the-corners stance and helps provide a smoother, more direct driving experience. In fact, Malibu's wheelbase is three inches (76 mm) longer than Toyota Camry.
“ Malibu is the car our customers have been looking for,” said Peper. “There is more style and content on the new Malibu than any other competitor in the segment.”
The new Malibu is offered in three well-equipped trim levels: LS, LT and LTZ – all with standard head-curtain side air bags and front-seat thorax air bags, OnStar Gen 7 with remote diagnostics, and XM Satellite Radio. StabiliTrak electronic stability control is standard on LT and LTZ models. [GlobalGiants.com]
Highlights of the redesigned 2008 Malibu include:
• All-new refined and contemporary exterior with new dual-port grille design that represents the new face of Chevrolet
• Twin round taillamps
• Upscale interior design with available two-tone trim; gauges with Chevrolet blue backlighting
• Standard head-curtain side air bags and front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags
• Available 110-volt household-type AC power outlet
• Refined and technically advanced family of economic DOHC powertrains, including a 2.4L Ecotec DOHC four-cylinder and a 3.6L DOHC V-6 with variable valve timing
• Fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission available with both four-cylinder and V-6 engines – a segment exclusive for four-cylinder engines
• Five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty
• Four-wheel independent suspension and longer wheelbase that deliver a more controlled, satisfying and confident driving experience
• Family of large wheels, including 18-inch ultra-bright polished wheels on LTZ
• Available large, panoramic sunroof
• Standard tire pressure monitoring system
Design details
With its strong stance and bold proportions, the 2008 Malibu has a profile that reinforces its substantial feel. Clean, pure lines and wheels pushed to the corners, as well as a visually lower yet longer greenhouse and a shorter deck suggest motion, agility and attitude. The body sides are clean and elegant, interrupted only by distinctive, wheel-oriented forms that communicate an aggressive, stable stance and a rear profile that connects to Chevrolet’s rich performance heritage.
The Malibu's dual-port grille is characteristic of the new face of Chevrolet cars and the twin round taillamps are Chevrolet cues, too, with LTZ models distinguished by front fog lamps and LED-lit taillamps. The design elements are complemented with precise details, including minimized panel gaps, a tight wheel-to-body relationship and select use of chrome trim. V-6 models also receive dual chrome exhaust outlets.
The interior’s attention to detail matches the Malibu's exterior, with an ergonomic design using premium materials that convey quality and value, including a cast skin material on the instrument panel. The integrated, flowing instrument panel features a Chevrolet-signature dual-cockpit design, with prominent gauges backlit in blue, and metallic or wood grain accents.
The new Malibu has greater storage, too, with thoughtful features that maximize utility, including a deep center console with a sliding cover that opens to accommodate larger items. Also standard is an auxiliary in-dash storage compartment on the instrument panel for sunglasses, CDs and other items. An available rear power center provides a household-style 110-volt AC power outlet.
Safe and secure
The 2008 Malibu has a comprehensive roster of standard and available features that helps protect occupants before, during and after a crash. They include:
• Dual-stage frontal air bags with GM Passenger Sensing System
• Head curtain side-impact air bags (front and rear outboard seats)
• Front seat-mounted thorax protection air bags
• Front safety belt pretensioners
• LATCH child safety seat anchors
• Four-wheel disc brakes with ABS
• Traction control
• StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with panic brake assistance (LT and LTZ models)
• Tire pressure monitoring system
All 2008 Malibu models come with OnStar Gen 7, which features standard automatic crash notification service and OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation – the first factory-installed, fully integrated GPS navigation system from OnStar. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:02 AM | Link to this Post
January 2, 2007
Detroit Auto Show Preparations: GM Adds To Celebrity Line-Up for Style Event : GlobalGiants.com
Preparations Continue As The Detroit Auto Show Nears.
Photo: A worker vacuums the floor at the Saab display in the General Motors exhibit as preparations for the North American International Auto Show continue Tuesday, January 2, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public on January 13. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin)
Photo: A worker assists with the lighting at the Cadillac display in the General Motors exhibit as preparations for the North American International Auto Show continue Tuesday, January 2, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public on January 13. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin)
Photo: Workers cover a Chevrolet Corvette to keep the dust off of it as preparations for the North American International Auto Show continue Tuesday, January 2, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public on January 13. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin)
Photo: Workers assemble the Buick Enclave display in the General Motors exhibit as preparations for the North American International Auto Show continue Tuesday, January 2, 2007 in Detroit, Michigan. The show opens to the public on January 13. (General Motors Photo/John F. Martin)
Detroit – Just days away from one of the largest gatherings of stars and cars Detroit has ever seen, GM has confirmed three celebrity additions to its runway for the Saturday, Jan. 6, GM Style event.
Widely touted for her breakout performance in the film “Dreamgirls” and an “American Idol” favorite, Jennifer Hudson will strut the catwalk at GM Style as one of the featured celebrity models.
Famed film and television star Christian Slater will also grace the runway at the unique event.
Late night television host Jimmy Kimmel of ABC-TV’s “Jimmy Kimmel Live” will act as emcee of the GM Style red carpet providing up-to-the-minute interviews and commentary from the moment they walk through the door.
Other talent slated to participate in GM Style include actress Carmen Electra, “Dancing with the Stars” favorite Mario Lopez, Emmy-nominated actress Cheryl Hines, supermodel Petra Nemcova and actress Vivica A. Fox. DJ Momjeans – aka “That 70’s Show’s” Danny Masterson -- is on board as guest DJ. A final list of celebrities is slated for release this week.
The first-ever invitation only GM Style will showcase 17 GM vehicles paired with celebrities and the latest fashions. GM is finishing a pavilion just east of the Renaissance Center on the Detroit Riverfront to host this salute to style. The pavilion, the first of its kind, will be longer than a football field, climate controlled and able to accommodate a runway for cars and stars. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:27 PM | Link to this Post
December 31, 2006
Automotive adventure between Europe and Asia : GlobalGiants.com
With the Mercedes-Benz E-Class from Paris to Beijing.
Stuttgart – On October 21st, 33 E-Class cars with clean diesel drive started on a fascinating long-distance drive covering around 13,600 kilometres from Paris to Beijing. The symbolic bridging between Europe and Asia over long stretches of the journey followed the route of the first transcontinental car race in history, which started exactly 99 years ago from Peking to Paris. The winner reached his destination in 62 days. With the modern E-Class cars, Mercedes-Benz accomplished this journey, parts of which are unpassable areas, in only 26 days. The sporting challenge for the roughly 330 participants from 35 nations was to achieve the lowest possible fuel consumption for the separate stages and the overall distance.
With this automotive marathon, Mercedes-Benz once again demonstrated the capabilities of its latest diesel engines with respect to emissions, economy and operating range, even under the most extreme conditions.
Five legs from Europe to Asia
After the start in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower on 21 October, the route of the ”E-Class Experience” initially led through France, Germany, Poland and the Baltics to St. Petersburg, where the first change of drivers took place after seven days. In this case, the route followed the path of the legendary first transcontinental automobile race held 99 years ago, which ran in the opposite direction from Beijing to Paris and wrote automotive history.
In many places the convoy was spontaneously surrounded and joyfully greeted by local people who appreciated their striking and unusual design. All participating E-Class cars are decorated with the flags of the participating nations, in order to underline the internationality of the long distance drive.
The longest diesel marathon of all times ended successfully in Beijing. The 36 Mercedes-Benz E-Class cars, which left Paris on 21 October on a transcontinental rally covering about 14,000 kilometres, arrived safe and sound in the Chinese capital after traversing Europe and Asia. Through this endurance test under extreme conditions Mercedes-Benz has once again demonstrated the outstanding performance of its modern diesel engines in terms of emissions, fuel economy and reliability. Proof of this is also the fuel consump-tion of the victorious “Ebay” team which won the fuel economy contest with an average of 7.19 l/100 km diesel. The best result on a daily leg was as low as 5.5 l/100 km.
PHOTO: Beijing: Arrival at the Yongding Gate, the southern access point to the “Holy Axis” of the Forbidden City.
During the five legs of the ”E-Class Experience" more than 360 drivers from 35 countries took turns at the steering wheels of the diesel sedans. In only 25 driving days they passed through nine countries under partly extreme conditions, such as snow and ice, as well as unpaved roads. The average daily driving distance was about 560 kilometres. Together with the 24 escort vehicles, which ranged from the G-Classes of the Mercedes-Benz crew and technical trucks to the mobile Aral diesel service station, the marathon entourage covered a total road distance of about 840,000 kilometers. This corresponds to the 21-fold circumference of the earth at the equator. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 7:10 PM | Link to this Post
2007 Suzuki SX4 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The 2007 Suzuki SX4 compact sport X-over (crossover), named "Best Kept Secret of 2007" by Autobytel, is designed for those who live an adventurous life and is sure to be a year-round standout in any driving conditions. The all-new SX4 (the name stands for (S)port (X)-over for (4) seasons of weather) features a handsome five-door hatchback design, a sophisticated standard all-wheel-drive system, excellent stability and crisp handling characteristics. Built in Japan, the SX4 features a sophisticated 2.0-liter, in-line four cylinder, 16-valve DOHC engine rated at 143 horsepower. SX4 is also fitted with intelligent all-wheel drive (i-AWD) as standard equipment. The i-AWD system operates in three modes for maximum fuel economy on dry pavement or to facilitate traction in case of snow or mud. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 3:16 PM | Link to this Post
December 30, 2006
Mazda CX-7, Adrenaline : GlobalGiants.com
Mazda CX-7 SUV, code-named Adrenaline is designed and built by Mazda Design North America in Irvine, Calif. Adrenaline is a high-performance sport-crossover vehicle designed to promote the essence of all Mazdas, best described as the “Emotion of Motion.”
Based on the all-new Mazda CX-7, Adrenaline is a fully running prototype that showcases Mazda’s commitment to performance. “Adrenaline is athletically inspired for people who demand a car that is as lean and fit as they are and represents their passions, yet doesn’t sacrifice in hauling those passions around,” said Franz von Holzhausen, design director, MNAO. “Adrenaline is tuned like an avid cyclist, and delivers on the promise.”
A wider, lower stance and a bold new face give the all-wheel-drive Adrenaline an aggressive and firmly planted sporty stance. Unique design cues include new front and rear exterior styling, a clam shell front clip, wrap around rear spoiler and an innovative rear glass design. New fenders and doors give Adrenaline a three-inch wider overall stance.
Inspired by the yellow jerseys worn by bicyclists to signify stage and overall winners, Mazda designers chose gradating yellow paint theme, which gives the impression of the vehicle punching through the atmosphere. It is bright, bold and sporty. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 6:43 PM | Link to this Post
Chevrolet Returns To NYC As Timekeeper Of Times Square : GlobalGiants.com
New Year's Eve will debut Chevy's new permanent timepiece in Times Square.
Photo: 2007 Chevrolet Impala LTZ
DETROIT – Chevrolet will return to New York City with a permanent presence in Times Square. Representing Chevy’s first long-standing presence in Times Square since the 1950s, Chevrolet is installing an iconic clock on the One Times Square building, just below the “Ball Lowering” location on New Year’s Eve that will mark the time in the “crossroads of the world.” The timepiece will alternate between a series of animated clock faces…a signal of things to come.
Photo: Times Square
Chevrolet is the “Official Ride of New Year’s Eve in Times Square” as part of its marketing partnership with Countdown Entertainment, the Times Square Alliance and the City of New York. For the second straight year, Chevrolet will provide tens of thousands of festive hats for revelers. And in addition to co-branding on the Mayor's Stage and media riser, Chevy branding will appear on the crystal podium used by Mayor Bloomberg to begin the midnight “Ball Lowering” from the top of the One Times Square building. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:14 PM | Link to this Post
Chevrolet HHR Premiere Edition To Debut In Detroit : GlobalGiants.com
DETROIT -- Chevrolet will debut the HHR Premiere Edition at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, it announced Wednesday, December 27, 2006. The HHR Premiere Edition features 17" black chrome wheels, black chrome exterior package, a special Cappuccino Frost Metallic exterior color and a special Ebony/Gray two-tone interior. The HHR Premiere Edition will begin production early in the first quarter of 2007. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 12:08 PM | Link to this Post
December 29, 2006
2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra : GlobalGiants.com
Best-in-class horsepower, towing capability and fuel economy extend GM’s legacy and heritage in full-size trucks.
Photo: 2007 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Extended Cab
DETROIT – General Motors introduces its all-new, 2007 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra – comprehensively redesigned pickups that incorporate new exterior and interior designs, and powertrain, chassis and safety systems. The vehicles take GM’s truck legacy to a new level. They lead the segment in performance, efficiency, capability, refinement and safety. The new trucks offer more power and better fuel economy than the vehicles they replace.
Photo: 2007 Chevrolet Silverado LTZ Interior
Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra are offered with three cab styles, three cargo box lengths and several specially tuned suspensions. All have distinct identities, including brand-exclusive sheet metal and design cues yet share fundamental traits that support segment-leading capability, quality and performance.
Photo: 2007 GMC Sierra
“Nobody has a deeper well of truck experience than GM, and it shows in the all-new Silverado and Sierra with their segment-leading V-8 power, fuel economy and towing capacity,” said Gary White, General Motors North America vice president and vehicle line executive for full-size trucks. “While power, pulling and payload used to define the full-size truck segment, today that’s the price of entry and consumers demand more. Our new trucks feature spacious and refined interiors and a host of exclusive features. Simply put, they have what it takes to continue their leadership position in the industry.”
“There are no peers when it comes to the depth and breadth of GM’s truck offerings,” said White. “The new trucks represent a well thought-out range of models and capacities, meaning customers can find the exact truck they need, whether it’s for work, personal driving or – as is more the case today – both.” [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 8:24 PM | Link to this Post
2007 Suzuki XL7 : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The 2007 Suzuki XL7 blends SUV versatility and safety to increase driver and passenger comfort and features available all-wheel drive and seven-passenger, three-row seating to provide adaptability for active, mobile lifestyles. The 3.6-liter, V6, DOHC engine rated at 252 horsepower with 243 lb.-ft. of torque is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission fitted with manumatic controls. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 1:30 PM | Link to this Post
Chrysler 2007 NAIAS Concepts : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: The Chrysler Nassau concept is a four-door, four-passenger luxury coupe with an emphasis on driving dynamics. The artistic exterior design leans toward an exploration as to what could be a future sedan in the brand's lineup. The Chrysler Nassau concept highlights sweeping curves to define the front and rear fasciae.
Photo: The Jeep Trailhawk concept merges the spectrum of the Jeep brand by combining the core features of the Jeep Wrangler with the sophistication of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. Derived from the all-new 2007 Wrangler architecture, the Jeep Trailhawk concept taps into "Jeep Rugged" attributes to provide classic proportions, unsurpassed off-road capability and a new approach to open-air freedom. The headlamps, cropped and peering out from beneath a diagonal brow, produce the countenance of a bird of prey, and the inspiration for the "Trailhawk" name.
Sneak Peek of Concepts
It's 31 seconds of drummin', thumpin', flyin' frames. If you look quickly enough you can catch a glimpse of the Chrysler Nassau and the Jeep Trailhawk — the two concept vehicles that will be unveiled at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, Michigan. [GlobalGiants.com]
View the Video!
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Edited & Posted by Editor | 10:13 AM | Link to this Post
December 28, 2006
Mercedes-Benz Design Study: Concept Ocean Drive Convertible : GlobalGiants.com
Detroit, Dec., 2006 -- At the 2007 North American Auto Show Detroit, Mercedes-Benz is adding to its reputation as a pioneer and design trendsetter among premium carmakers with the presentation of its Concept Ocean Drive four-door convertible. This study is a one-off creation by Mercedes-Benz which revives the tradition of large luxury convertibles. Not having to work to a design brief or production specifications left the designers free to get on with the job of developing the world's most comfortable and elegant convertible.
According to Mercedes-Benz, "The Concept Ocean Drive is an aweinspiring jewel on wheels. As a four-door convertible, it belongs in a luxury genre that has almost disappeared from our roads. Like the luxury convertibles of years gone by, this showpiece from Stuttgart features the maximum in elegance, lifestyle sophistication and exclusiveness. To put it another way, it represents automobile culture at its most attractive and desirable.
The one-off special has an all-new body with an almost classic flavour and with clearly defined lines and vibrant two-tone paintwork which are exceptionally charismatic. Although on one level the Concept Ocean Drive displays the restraint of an elite and aristocratic automobile, it is also an open invitation to go on a "top-less" cruise along the world's finest ocean promenades. Luxurious, exotic materials have been crafted with consummate skill to create a showpiece of unparalleled perfection.
The unique luxury convertible design study from Stuttgart turns a "dream car" vision into reality. At the same time it is also an affirmation of the design excellence and values of the Mercedes-Benz brand, including the brand's traditional basic principles like excellent build and quality, comfort, effortless superiority, value retention and safety. These values have now been joined by three further key messages: passion, fascination and innovation. " [GlobalGiants.com]
Styling conveys effortless superiority and elegance
Apart from the four doors, the outward distinguishing marks of the concept car include a very large and upright radiator grille, LED headlamps and taillights, two-tone paintwork and a striking interplay between taut lines and large, restful surfaces. This lends the one-off special an air of effortless superiority, power, elegance and forward-flowing energy.
The long side-window opening which, typically of a convertible, is not interrupted by a B-pillar or window frames, ensures seamless continuity between the exterior and the interior, even when the top is up. Extensive use of high-value materials –such as finest-quality leather, 3D-effect materials and large bird's eye maple trim panels (in the interior and even on the soft-top compartment cover) – and many other thoughtfully designed interior details, highlight the luxurious, unique character of this design study.
Top-level engineering
The design study is based on the twelve-cylinder Mercedes-Benz S 600, on account of this model's long wheelbase. The technical highlights include:
• the innovative soft-top mechanism resulting in smooth operation and fast closing times;
• the innovative AIRSCARF neck-level heating system, which is featured on all four seats, allowing occupants to enjoy top-down motoring even in the colder months of the year.
The on-board equipment also includes top-level Mercedes-Benz innovations, some of which are unique worldwide – including Brake Assist PLUS, the innovative PRE-SAFE brake system (in combination with radar-based DIS-TRONIC PLUS) and the PRE-SAFE anticipatory occupant protection system.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:37 AM | Link to this Post
December 27, 2006
2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
Photo: First introduced as a 2006 model, the Grand Vitara has garnered much media and consumer praise and has won numerous awards, including a "Best Buy" from Consumer Guide. The 2007 Grand Vitara features a standard 185-horsepower, 2.7-liter, V6, 24-valve DOHC engine, a sophisticated available Four-Mode full-time four-wheel-drive system, tough unibody construction enhanced with a built-in ladder frame and an extensive list of interior amenities and standard safety features.
The list of standard safety features is extensive: ABS with EBD and ESP, including traction control, six airbags, three-point driver and front-passenger seat belts featuring shoulder height adjustment; in the rear seat, each passenger is provided with a three-point seat belt system and a headrest. With its carefully engineered control layout and close attention to materials and fit-and-finish, the interior of the Suzuki Grand Vitara is functional and attractive.
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:38 PM | Link to this Post
December 26, 2006
2007 Ford Shelby GT : GlobalGiants.com
Photo: Carroll Shelby and the first production 2007 Ford Shelby GT which will go over the auction block in support of the Carroll Shelby Children's Foundation at the Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale Collector Car Event on Saturday, January 20th.
The Shelby GT is the third modern Shelby Mustang produced through a collaboration of Ford and Carroll Shelby. In addition to the 2007 Shelby GT500, Ford and Shelby created 500 copies of the Ford Shelby GT-H, which are available to rent through select Hertz rental centers. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:13 AM | Link to this Post
December 25, 2006
Premiere of the new smart fortwo in the USA : GlobalGiants.com
North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
Photo: smart fortwo coupé passion
Stuttgart, Germany, Dec., 2006 -- For the very first time on US soil: the new smart fortwo, is celebrating its USA premiere at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit (January 7 to 21, 2007). The new smart fortwo will be available in the USA beginning in the first quarter of 2008. The car shown in Detroit is an European version of the new smart fortwo. Model lines to be available in the United States will be announced at later date.
smart, like Mercedes-Benz and Maybach, is part of the Mercedes Car Group. The exhibition stand is directly opposite Chrysler and Dodge in Oakland Hall (inside Cobo Center). Written in large letters on the stand are the words "Coming to the USA in 2008". And right in front of it -- a smart fortwo with red bodypanels and a silver tridion safety cell.
Photo: Ulrich Walker, President smart
The new smart fortwo can do everything that the current model can do - but better. This means that the new smart fortwo is even more comfortable, even more agile, even safer and even more environmentally friendly than its predecessor. And from the first draft it is designed to meet USA customer needs and registration standards.
The right car at the right time.
It is time for the smart fortwo to make an appearance in the USA; fuel prices are rising, and city traffic is increasing by the day. In short, the smart fortwo is the right car at the right time.
On the other side of the Atlantic, the two-seater quickly became a popular vehicle following its launch in October 1998. The same is sure to hold true in the USA.
More than 770,000 customers have chosen the first generation of the smart fortwo – often to replace a larger car with the lively two-seater. Because the smart fortwo is something special and stands out from the crowd, and because it is simply fun to drive.
Apart from this, the vehicle concept is also highly practical – especially for people who live in cities or urban areas. On most journeys a car carries just a single occupant, and because people make faster progress through the city in a smart fortwo. And because with a smart fortwo, people can make faster progress through city streets and they do not even need to search for a parking space – the smart fortwo can easily fit between in very limited space – they can find one right away.
Photo: Ready for 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit: Premiere of the new smart fortwo in the USA
As early as 2002, the smart fortwo was included in the permanent collection in New York’s Museum of Modern Art – the only vehicle there that is still produced today. The five other models to attain this honor were the Cisitalia, Jaguar E-Type, Willy’s Jeep, Ferrari Formula 1 and Volkswagen Beetle. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 9:29 PM | Link to this Post
Chevrolet Caprice: Best Luxury Car At Middle East Car Of The Year Awards : GlobalGiants.com
GM Holden’s export vehicle, the Australian-built Chevrolet Caprice, won the Best Luxury Car Award at the 2006 Autocar Middle East Awards December 2006.
The judging panel praised the all-new Caprice which emerged after three days of solid testing as a clear winner from the other finalists in its class, the Volvo S80 V8 All-wheel drive and the Lexus ES350.
The process undertaken by Autocar’s team of expert judges involved three days and nearly 36 hours of analysing and testing.
“The Caprice represents unbeatable value given its list of standard features, size and that six-litre V8 engine,” Autocar Editor and chief judge, Damien Reid said.
“Given that it’s an all-new model, our judges were impressed by the improvement in build quality, ride and overall refinement over the previous model. As it was judged against its competitors the panel found this latest version had retained many qualities which makes this style of car so popular to Middle Eastern customers,” Mr Reid added.
GM Holden dispatched its first shipment of all-new generation export versions of Commodore, Statesman and Caprice to its largest export market, the Middle East, in September 2006.
The cars, prepared as the Chevrolet Lumina and Chevrolet Caprice, are exported throughout the Middle East as part of GM Australia’s longest and largest automotive export program. [GlobalGiants.com]
Edited & Posted by Editor | 11:24 AM | Link to this Post
