New Delhi - Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, launched the new Honda Accord with striking new looks and new features to give a breathtaking driving experience.

The new Accord has more style, more comfort and more sophistication than ever before. A bold and aggressive look and striking interiors will make it the most commanding premium sedan on Indian roads.

On the exterior, the new Chrome accentuated front grille, rear chrome garnish and new front bumper adds to the charm of the Accord. The Sunroof now comes as standard across the Accord range which gives the car an impressive panoramic feeling making it look brighter and larger. Addition of Steering mounted cruise control system helps one to cruise at the desired speed to ensure comfort and convenience for the customer with one-touch operation and ORVM with turn indicators makes it more stylish and enhances the looks of the car. The inside wooden panel makes it look even more exquisite. The Accord now comes with an advanced improved audio system for improved usability & readability and Jackknife key have also been added to the Accord.

Honda Accord is equipped with Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) to assist the driver in maintaining control during cornering, acceleration and sudden maneuvers by applying braking to the right or left hand wheels as necessary and modulating the engine torque output as required.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Takashi Nagai, President & CEO, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd., said “Honda Accord has been one of the most successful premium sedans in its category with over 25,000 units sold since its launch in India setting new standards in exclusivity, comfort and safety. Our belief in constantly upgrading our products based on customer feedback prompted this launch of an upgraded version of the Accord with unique styling in combination with luxurious features.”

The 8th generation Honda Accord was introduced in May 2008. The Honda Accord is available in 2.4L and 3.5L V6 engine.

The 2.4L Accord comes with 5-speed Manual Transmission and 5-speed Automatic transmission with Paddle shift, to give the exhilarating experience of F-1 racing. The Automatic Transmission has Shift Holding System which avoids unnecessary gear shifting on winding roads and helps in hassle free drive.

Source: http://www.hondacarindia.com/mediaCenter/view_press_releases.aspx?pr_id=219

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Jaguar will launch its most potent series production car ever, the all-new XKR-S, at the Geneva motorshow on March 1.

This all-new model will significantly broaden the appeal of the XK range, offering enthusiastic drivers a compelling, fresh choice in the luxury GT class.

With an uprated supercharged V8 engine, overhauled suspension and a new aerodynamically-driven design, the XKR-S is the ultimate expression of Jaguar’s long held duality of purpose: GT luxury with incredible performance.

”The XKR-S is a bold and exciting new model for Jaguar,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar’s new Global Brand Director. ”We expect to attract both loyal and new Jaguar driving enthusiasts who still want the comfort, opulence and class only a Jaguar can offer, combined with inspirational performance.”

The XKR-S produces 550PS and 680Nm of torque, enough power to offer a top speed of 186mph (300km/h). Its performance credentials speak for themselves: 0-60mph takes 4.2 seconds, with 0-100mph dismissed in just 8.6 seconds.

The XKR-S is not merely the quickest Jaguar ever, but also the most agile, responsive and driver-focused. It exploits the XK’s strong, lightweight aluminium body architecture to maximise both handling and economy. Alongside its incredible performance, the XKR-S is the only car in its class that emits less than 300g/km CO2.

Bespoke suspension changes to the front and rear offer ultimate precision, control and driver appeal, while a reprogrammed Adaptive Dynamics system allows the enthusiastic driver to explore the edges of the handling envelope.

Full details, images and video of the XKR-S will be available on Geneva press day - March 1.

Alongside the exciting new XKR-S, Jaguar will be marking the 50th anniversary of the E-Type with the first in a series of celebrations that take place during 2011.

Source: http://www.tatamotors.com/media/press-releases.php?id=652

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The new BMW sub-brand focused on developing sustainable mobility solutions has been launched. “BMW i represents a new movement in premium mobility. With the introduction of this new sub-brand, the BMW Group reaffirms its leadership as the most innovative and sustainable premium car company. The products and services have been conceived around a revolutionary approach: purpose designed and purpose built for sustainable, premium mobility. It’s a new day in our industry; a new era for individual mobility. This is BMW i – Born Electric.” said Ian Robertson, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG responsible for Sales and Marketing, in Munich on Monday.

In a first move, two models will be launched under the new sub-brand from 2013 – the BMW i3 and BMW i8. The BMW Group will also significantly expand its range of mobility services over the years ahead. To achieve this, a Venture Capital company was founded in New York City, BMW i Ventures, with an investment totalling up to 100 million US dollars.

“BMW i offers visionary cars and services, inspiring design, and an entirely new concept of premium mobility – all with a focus on sustainability”, explained Robertson. The BMW i brand comprises vehicles and services developed since 2007 as part of project i, a BMW Group think tank exploring sustainable mobility solutions. It is the BMW Group’s response to changing customer needs, including increasing demand for alternative drive trains, such as electric drive systems and hybrids. There is a widespread desire in megacities for solutions which intelligently combine the benefits of various mobility concepts in a single package.

Revolutionary vehicle concepts
“With BMW i, we are building on the success and strength of our core brand,” emphasised Robertson. The BMW i3– previously known as the Megacity Vehicle – will be the BMW Group’s first series-produced car for urban areas to be driven by electric power alone. The BMW i8, meanwhile, is based on the BMW Vision EfficientDynamics concept study. Its plug-in hybrid drive blends the sporting ability of a high-performance machine with the fuel consumption and emissions of a small car.

Both models are based on a revolutionary construction concept known as LifeDrive architecture. An aluminium chassis houses the powertrain, and the passenger cell consists of high-strength but extremely lightweight carbon fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP). “Both cars have been designed specifically for their respective alternative drive systems. We used the innovative architecture and CFRP to cancel out practically all of the extra weight added by the batteries. For our customers this means superior driving dynamics combined with significantly increased range using electric power,” explains Klaus Draeger, BMW Board member responsible for development.

Source: http://www.bmw.com.au/com/en/insights/newsandevents/latest-news/new-bmw-sub-brand-bmw-

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YOKOHAMA, Japan - Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced that global sales of the Qashqai*1 has surpassed one million units as of January 31. The Qashqai is also known as the Dualis in Japan and in other markets.

Launched in the European market in March 2007, Qashqai made its debut during the same year in Japan followed by Africa, the Middle East, Oceania, Asia, and Latin America. Without exception, all regions have praised Nissan’s new model for its high quality and strong performance.

Starting from Europe, the Qashqai brought something new to the market with its strong, distinctive design and product concept. Sitting between the style of a more traditional hatchback and a more robust, elevated SUV shape, Qashqai merged the best of two worlds capturing the car-buying public’s imagination. Updated in March 2010 with refreshed design and improved fuel economy and CO2 emissions, it continues to enjoy strong sales, and has been a mainstay of Nissan’s European lineup for four consecutive years. Moreover, it has won several ‘Car of the Year’ awards in numerous countries, and this year, was ranked third by ADAC, Germany and Europe’s largest automobile association in it’s Yellow Angel award category for quality. It was the only import car model to receive this distinction as one of the most reliable cars in Germany.

For Japan, its urban design and European-derived agile driving feel are considered endearing characteristics. Starting with the minor change last August, fuel efficiency of the 2WD models has been improved, and all model grades qualify for a tax reduction. The actual fuel efficiency has been improved to match top levels in its class by adapting various environmentally-friendly functions, such as Eco-switch.

Source: http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/NEWS/2011/_STORY/110228-01-e.html

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A perfect start into the upper midrange class – already more than 70 international awards for the new BMW 5 Series – the series of international successes includes the “red dot design award” and the title “Germany’s Favourite Car”, best results in European, US-American and Australian NCAP crash test as well as “Car of the Year” awards in the UK, Portugal, India, Thailand, Mexico, New Zealand and numerous other countries – the spring of 2011 will see an even more diverse and attractive model range thanks to additional variants featuring BMW xDrive and eight-speed automatic transmission with Auto Start Stop function.

At the proving ground it immediately left the competition standing and is also right up front when it comes to public popularity. During its first year, the new BMW 5 Series got off to a perfect start and is continuing unabatedly with its success story in 2011. Commanding victories in comparison tests carried out by well-known specialised media, best marks in the analyses performed by independent experts with regard to design, safety and value stability as well as an unparalleled flood of accolades in the latest reader surveys at home and abroad characterise the impressive start-up phase, which began with the market launch of the BMW 5 Series Sedan in March 2010.

The outstanding desirability and popularity of the BMW 5 Series is also reflected in the sales figures. Demand was additionally boosted with the launch of the new BMW 5 Series Touring. Since October 2010, the BMW 5 Series has been global market leader in the premium segment of the upper midrange class. During the course of 2010, a total of 211,968 vehicles of the BMW 5 Series were sold worldwide, this representing an increase of 22.6 percent over the previous year. In the spring of 2011, diversity of the BMW 5 Series model range will be extended yet again. Intelligent four-wheel drive technology BMW xDrive can now be combined with three engine variants featured in the BMW 5 Series Sedan and it will shortly be introduced in the BMW 5 Series Touring. The new models BMW 535i xDrive, BMW 530d xDrive and BMW 530d xDrive Touring are fitted as standard with an eight-speed automatic transmission including Auto Start Stop function.

The BMW 5 Series is “Germany’s Favourite Car”, has gained “Car of the Year” awards from the UK, Bulgaria, Mexico, Thailand and New Zealand, completed both the US NCAP and the Euro NCAP crash test as the safest vehicle in its class and received, among other awards, numerous prizes for design. No other model caused such a sensation on international automotive markets in 2010 as the new BMW 5 Series. On the basis of the car’s qualities and enormous popularity, market observers are already predicting that it will retain a high level of value stability, for which reason the new BMW 5 Series is listed as “Value Champion 2011″ in the rankings published by the trade magazine “Auto Bild”.

Source: http://www.bmw.com.au/com/en/insights/newsandevents/latest-news/the-new-bmw-5-series-an-

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A series of visionary designs in a Citroën sponsored project at the collage that has produced some of the world’s leading car designers have been unveiled at the Royal College of Art’s Interim Degree Show in London.

The Double Challenge project required RCA MA second year students to design a compelling ultra-compact model that could establish a unique Citroën e-vehicle aesthetic for the future. The project was jointly sponsored by Citroën and EXA, a France-based aerodynamic simulation software company.

Heikki Juvonen’s E-3POD Antistatic was chosen as the best overall design by representatives from Citroën’s Style Centre and Electric Vehicle Development Team. His single-seat creation is a bold and engaging take on an urban three wheel electric vehicle. The distinctive, aerodynamic styling features two smaller wheels at the front with the driver sitting inside a larger third wheel with an innovative hub-less design. As his prize, Heikki receives a six month employment contract to work at the prestigious PSA Design Centre in Paris.

Heikki commented; “I’m thrilled Citroën selected my design as their favourite and I can’t wait to work with their talented team in France. As a designer I strive for new and better solutions. Good and sustainable design not only improves manufacturer brand image and sales, but can also help to preserve our environment.”

Source: http://www.citroen.com.au/default.asp?action=article&ID=1346

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New Delhi – Mercedes-Benz celebrated its 125th anniversary and invention of the first automobile by its founders Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler by raising the bar of luxury motoring yet again, in India. It launched the iconic “Maybach” brand in two top of the line variants - Maybach 57 S & Maybach 62. The Maybach – symbolized by the double M in the curved triangle is considered to be the pinnacle of automotive engineering, technical excellence and timeless elegance and is a culmination of the company’s expertise in automotive development spanning 125 years.

Mr. Peter Honegg, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India said: “Designed with meticulous attention to detail, built in a state-of-the-art manufacturing factory and kitted out with 21st-century automotive technology, the Maybach 62 and Maybach 57 S are writing the next chapter in the history. These, along with Mercedes-Benz models made some of the finest examples of automotive excellence, worldwide. We are happy to offer this epitome of automotive excellence for the discerning Indian customer.”

The Maybach exhibits the dynamic and passionate genes of the Mercedes-Benz brand, clearly manifested from the very first glimpse. Its esteemed profile is emphasized by technological precision and intelligently conceived details. The LED daytime driving lights integrated in the front bumper coalesce striking aesthetics with enhanced safety, while the sporty design of the new-look 20-inch wheels alludes to the car‘s invigorating power and performance. The charismatic lower body is reinforced by the horizontally divided front bumpers and the wide stance of the car. These elite touches combined with the dual tone paint-job create an outstandingly sophisticated finish that has been meticulously designed, right down to the last detail.

The Maybach represents the quintessence of automotive luxury with its lavish and palatial interiors. The rear compartment provides a level of seating comfort that is unparalleled within the high-end luxury car segment. Finest leather in subtly elegant shades combined with the Alcantara roof lining and the warm hues of the wood trim elements evoke a feeling of wellbeing and calm. Master craftsmen realize even the most lavish of requests, and a remarkable selection of optional extras is available to suit the most discerning of tastes. The luxurious interiors immerse one in comfortable cocoon cushioning from the chaotic pace of the world.

Source: http://www.mercedes-benz.co.in/content/india/mpc/mpc_india_website/enng/home_mpc

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Toronto, Ontario - The sky’s the limit at Mazda’s display at the 2011 Canadian International AutoShow. Making its debut is the 2012 Mazda3, which, in addition to receiving a facelift, will also offer the option of Mazda’s new SKYACTIV-G petrol engine and SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission when it is launched in Canada later this year. This initial application of Mazda’s SKYACTIV engine and transmission technologies – the first time they will be employed in a production vehicle – will realize higher torque at low- and mid-range engine speeds resulting in better drivability with less fuel consumption in everyday driving.

Mazda Motor Corporation has been developing its new technologies under the SKYACTIV concept and they include completely new petrol and diesel engines, transmissions and vehicle architectures. Mazda’s SKYACTIV Technologies will be launched successively beginning with the new petrol engine and automatic transmission in 2011.

Mazda has stated that its goal is to improve fuel efficiency by 30 percent by 2015 (compared to 2008 levels). This will be accomplished through SKYACTIV Technologies, which focus on improving the efficiency of internal combustion core technologies in association with vehicle weight reduction. Then, gradually, electrical devices such as idle-stop, regenerative braking and hybrid systems will be introduced to further improve fuel efficiency and reduce CO2 emissions.

In addition to the new SKYACTIV engine and transmission offerings, the 2012 Mazda3 will receive new front and rear bumpers with a redesigned front grill, fog bezels and front headlamps. New 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels complete the 2012 exterior updates.

Another vehicle making its first appearance in Toronto is the new 2012 Mazda5 multi-activity vehicle. Since its introduction as a 2006 model, the Mazda5 has redefined the concept of compact transportation by offering seating for up to six people in three easily configurable rows, as well as with unique styling and driving dynamics not typical in vehicles of this type. Over 50,000 Mazda5s have been sold since its introduction to Canada and it is the second best selling nameplate in Mazda Canada’s line-up.

Source: http://www.mazda.com.au/Community/News/2011/2/Mazda3%20with%20SKYACTIV-G%20and%

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TORONTO - At the Canadian International Auto Show this month, motoring enthusiasts will be offered a rare opportunity to see the exclusive Lexus LFA, as the first super car from Lexus makes its Canadian debut.

“Just ten Lexus LFA models will be built for Canadian guests, and the LFA will be a stand-out vehicle on roads and race tracks when deliveries begin this spring,” said Larry Hutchinson, Director of Lexus in Canada. “But the engineering behind the LFA also sets the stage for future vehicles throughout the Lexus portfolio. The LFA demonstrates our ability to push the limits of advanced technology to deliver an emotionally-gripping combination of thrilling performance, dynamic control and passionate design.”

The two-seater LFA expresses a uniquely Lexus approach to designing and engineering the 21st Century super car. Its many innovations include:

• Super lightweight construction featuring a unique carbon fiber reinforced plastic made possible by a special carbon fiber loom developed in-house by Lexus engineers and builds on Toyota’s rich history of loom design;
• A 552-horsepower 4.8 L V10 that delivers 90% of its peak torque between 3,700rpm and 9,000 rpm, hand-built by a single engineer and bearing his signature;
• Blistering acceleration of 0-100 km/h in 3.7 seconds and a top speed of 325 km/h;
• The world’s first Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbag mounted in the seatbelt;
• A unique personalization process that offers over a million possible combinations, during which LFA guests can choose from an incredible selection of options, including 30 exterior colours, 12 interior colours plus a variety of stitching options, leather or Alcantara seat materials and a choice of wheel and brake caliper colour options;
• An exclusive ownership experience through Lexus, including special events such as a tour of the LFA Works in Motomachi, Japan, and much more.

Lexus craftspeople will handcraft only 500 LFAs at the rate of 20 per month.

Source: http://www.lexus.ca/lexus/experience/en/home/whatsnew/whatsnew_news.jsp

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Audi will present an attractive technological concept car based on the coming generation of the Audi A3 at the 81st International Geneva Motor Show in early March 2011. The four-seater notchback sedan offers a glimpse of the future expansion of the A3 family.

The sporty yet elegant design of the Audi A3 concept integrates the single-frame grille with its tapered upper corners and headlights with the latest generation of LED technology. The low, flowing roof dome and a coupe-like, low C pillar are among the defining features of the side view.

The Audi A3 concept is 4.44 meters (14.57 feet) long, 1.84 meters (6.04 feet) wide and just 1.39 meters (4.56 feet) high. These proportions emphasize the dynamism of the car’s appearance, as do the performance figures for the drive unit. The five-cylinder turbocharged engine has a power output of 300 kW (408 hp). It distributes its power to all four wheels through a seven-speed S tronic transmission and permanent all-wheel drive.

Source: http://www.audi.com/com/brand/en/company/news/company.detail.2011~02~audi

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