No 115 MAR 2011 Oman’s Best Automotive Resource OMR 0.500 AED 5.00 QR 5.

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,m o r e l u x u r y 2 0 1 1 l Tested

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2011 VVip ed
 A new direction for Motoring
editor-in-chief
Mohammad Al taie

AL roYA PreSS & PUBLiShinG This month, our team has done the test of the new Lexus CT200h. In itself the car is
Po Box: 343, Postal code 118 an unassuming addition to the mainstream European hatchback segment. Even without
Al harthy complex
its hybrid engine, the type of car has a market in mainland Europe, though most of the
Sultanate of oman
numbers are supported by some rather well-tuned diesel engines.
email: automan@alroya.net With its hybrid engine, the CT200h seeks to change some of the perceptions and gain
Website: www.automanweb.com
a fan following even with petrol as its main fuel. In Oman the car is advertised to offer
editorial office: 25kmpl. We guess its effective range will be greatly increased in many cases in urban
tel: +968 24479888 extn 300, fax: +968 24479889 Europe, where inner city driving does require frequent starts and stops, which is where
circulation office:
the combination of stop and go engine and hybrid drive thrive.
tel: +968 2456 2360, fax: +968 2456 2194
However, outside select markets and in the GCC in particular, the clever hatchback’s
PUBLiSher raison d’être seems to evaporate. Yes we all still appreciate 25kmpl, which is between
hatim Al taie hatim@alroya.net
an 80 to 100% increase in fuel efficiency. But in actual terms that would mean that a car
editor & GM that did 60,000kms a year would save around 300 and some Rials in fuel costs. It is an
raj Warrior raj@alroya.net interesting amount, but would it make a difference to the typical luxury car buyer?
That is the equation – car companies have to spearhead a concerted change in customer
execUtive editor
chandan B Mallik chandan@alroya.net behaviour, usually following a perceived shift in trends, often making the shift happen
overtly. How much of a chance does a non-luxury brand have when they bring costly new
co-ordinAtor
technology to the market, like hybrid drives or even full-electric with range extenders?
Pratibha n Kadam pratibha@alroya.net
There is the fear of pricing oneself out of the market with people ready to rationalise
deSiGn staying with the costs of a known platform over the risks of sampling new technology at
Sawsan Al Muharbi sawsan@alroya.info
their cost.
heAd of MArKetinG Governments need to step in where required to change the paradigm. History has
Maged Aziz maged@alroya.net repeatedly proven that the bulk of populations are ready to follow the path of least
resistance. While hybrid drivetrains are but a stop-gap in the journey to real zero carbon
MArKetinG
Supreme Philips philips@alroya.net locomotion, they are likely to be with us for a couple of decades, helping to extend the
consumption and availability of fossil fuels well beyond when we thought possible.
circULAtion
Perhaps that would be reason enough for governments in the GCC to gently impel us
books@alroya.net
towards cars like the CT200h. One way would be to relax import duties on clean cars or
finAnce & AdMin offer a waiver on registration fees, while increasing these for the gas guzzlers. It seems
Abraham daniel daniel@alroya.net
odd, but there is no time like now to start developing a green conscience.
Printer
ruwi Modern Printers LLc
tel: +968 2479 4167, 2479 8157
fax: +968 2470 0545

© 2011
All editorial content of Automan in the magazine and
its website is copyrighted and may not be reproduced
in any form without the written consent of the
management of AL roYA PreSS & PUBLiShinG

Automan accepts unsolicited exclusive editorial

material, but reserves the right to publish any such
material. once published, the copyright for any
such material will vest with AL roYA PreSS &
PUBLiShinG
 in this issue
107
k

10

News
QATAR MOTORSHOW {ROAD TEST}
The 2011 Lexus CT 200h
marks the introduction of
the first, and only, full hybrid

From across the 6

vehicle to the core of the
premium compact segment.
Automan tries out this new
arrival in Oman
Author Chandan B Mallik Photography Shakil Al Baloushi

region and around

the world
MOVING INTO
HIGH GEAR
T
hat Qatar has become one of the top five performing markets in
the Middle East and it comes as no surprise that premium brands,
luxury cars and bespoke suppliers are beginning to look at this
country with more interest than before. Many motor shows in the
Middle East come in the garb of retailer-sponsored exhibitions, but this
supercars, prototypes and special bespoke models.
Also underlying the importance of this wealthy buyers’ market, eight
top names and talents from the Italian car design industry also
displayed their impressive creations which were co-promoted with the
Gruppo Carrozzieri Autovetture (Car Coachbuilders) of ANFIA - Italian
iNterview
Future looking good 8
year the focus at Qatar was to go global – in terms of presentation and Association of the Automotive Industry.
content. Organized by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and held under
the patronage of HE Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani,
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, the Qatar Motor Show held
in late January presented an unprecedented number of concept cars, Here are the key highlights from the show.
Maiden international edition of the Qatar Motor Show had an impressive
array of production cars, concepts and one off prototypes.

for Ford
10
EDITORIAL NOMINEE

REVOLUTION
10 11 78 79 Motorshows
Surprises at Qatar 10
ROAD TEST ROAD TEST

EDITORIAL NOMINEE
Muscle power in Chicago 16
braNDwatch
DODGE CHALLENGER

PERFORMANCE CAR

For 2011, the Range Rover Sport, Land

Low down on global 20
brands
Rover’s quintessential sports tourer
SUV gets a fresh dose of upgrades.
Automan checks out the refreshed
model in Oman

News aNalysis
Author Chandan B Mallik Photography Shakil Al Baloushi

26
MUSCLE TALK in the
Top 10 headlines
74 44 cover story
line-up for 2011
the Challenger decides
Dodge extends version. Automan
pimped up SRT8 with it
region with a ding a few days
or cold by spen
whether it’s hot Ferzan
Photography
Nabeel
B Mallik
Author Chandan

73 44 45

All-new Dodge Charger 28

PREVIEW {COVER STORY}
revitalises the brand
2011 Nissan GT-R VVIP 36
58 A
36
t least for now, it is beginning to get clear
where Honda is heading with its product
direction. Although Honda has earned a
reputation for producing a fuel-efficient line
up of cars and crossovers, it is beginning to

exclusive
e
T
look at models that have been its bedrock and

EMEN
also cost effective to produce. As the rising

TYLE STAT
yen is playing havoc with Japan’s carmakers,

!
Honda is a little late in understanding that it
has to work out a global strategy for effective
manufacturing. The Alabama, US-built
Odyssey tops the list of priorities and despite
the fact it’s not an all-new model but clearly
marks the next generation of one of America’s
favourite vans which is also available in the
n

2011 Hyundai Veloster

oke luxury throw
Middle East. It seems that Honda wants to

element of besp

22
prove that these multipurpose vehicles aren’t
just plain Jane minivans anymore.
core with an rcar image?
Refined to the its hardcore supe
First revealed as concept in early 2010 at

Nissan GT-R losing Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina race

the Chicago Auto Show, the production version
of the incoming fourth-generation Honda
Odyssey has been thoroughly redesigned
in, is the 2011 at
in almost every aesthetic and functional
tigates the case
Automan inves

prototype driven
department over and under the skin. New
exterior features include revised front end with
HID headlamps and new 18in alloy wheels.
Honda not only improved the safety of track
the Odyssey for 2011, but also made it more
stylish. The incoming Odyssey gets more
than a token nip and tuck upgrade. The car
now sports and aggressive stance and sporty
“lightning-bolt” influenced waistline. This
unique character line not only provides an
exclusive appearance, but also adds increased
visibility for third-row passengers. Meanwhile,

test Drive
it sits lower than before and it now also wider
and longer which in turn gives it an athletic
stance and Honda claim that the overall
aerodynamic efficiency has improved by 5.5
per cent.
While, comfort and poise on the road are
top class, Honda has set up the car to carry
seven to eight adults in total or six adults
more comfortably than any full-size SUV.

2011 Dodge Challenger 44

New interior features add more convenience
for families, while available entertainment
technology introduces high-definition
connectivity and split-screen viewing. There’s
even a power tailgate to make loading and
unloading cargo effortless. New for 2011, the
power sliding doors can now be opened with
the brakes on, without having to shift to Park
first as in the older car. Top spec models get a

SRT8
conventional rear-seat entertainment system
which uses a 16.2in widescreen that shows
side-by-side images or one panorama and has
650 watts driving 12 speakers in 5.1 surround
system.
The front-wheel drive only Odyssey is
offered with a single engine which is a
normally-aspirated 248hp i-VTEC 3.5-litre

58 59 28 29

2011 Lexus CT200h 50

COVER STORY
2011 Toyota Zelus 64
2011 Range Rover Sport 74

Charger of the new cover story 28 Previews

Kia Optima Kinetic 57
Dodge brigade 2011 Honda Odyssey 58
VW Touareg Concept 61
Toyota F86 G 62
curtaiN raiser
30 top reasons to be in 70
Geneva
chicaNe
Looking at both sides 80
The next stage of the all-American revival is
of profiling
Poster
well under way, with Chrysler Corporation
continuing its brand and model consolidation Sa Su Mo

7
Tu
1
8
We
2
9
Th
3
10
17
Fr
4
11
18

March
6 16 25

strategy.
5 14 15 24
13 22 23
12 21 31
Author Raj Warrior 20 29 30
19 28
26 27

36 37

h 2011
115 | Marc
700-4
dor LP
Aventa
ghini
Lambor
 I N G!
C
O UN THAT
ANN VENT GE
E N
THE LL CHA ALUE
WI YOU V R
W CA
HO OUR
Y

YOUR CAR’S SEAL OF

EXCELLENCE!
MORE THAN 250 MODELS, 40 BRANDS,
15 CATEGORIES AND ONLY ONE
WINNER IN EACH CATEGORY!
announces the thrills and prestige of its own Car of the Year awards. With
enough packed in to take you through the year and a unique format of selection,
Automan’s COTY awards will reward the best models on offer in Oman in 2011

Look out in every issue of Automan till August 2011.

When we test drive cars, we will not only judge each
car for how good it is for you as a buyer, we will also
01 Small Car of the Year
possibly select it as our editorial nominee in one of 13 02 Mid-size Car of the Year
categories:
03 Large Car of the Year
04 Premium Car of the Year
13 Categories for Reader Voting 05 Luxury Car of the Year
06 Hot Hatch of the Year
07 Sports Car of the Year
If the car deserves the tag, we will tag it as “Editorial
Nominee” for the category it best suits. Look out for
08 Performance Car of the Year
this logo on each story: 09 Small SUV of the Year
10 Mid-size SUV of the Year
EDITORIAL NOMINEE
11 Large SUV of the Year
NAME OF THE CAR
12 Premium SUV of the Year
CATEGORY
13 Performance SUV of the Year
We will keep a running tally of all the editorial choices
till August, after which, we will allow you, the reader to
select further nominees through SMS and online at our
website, all the way through till our October issue.

And that’s when things get really exciting!

The nominees in each category will go through a

selection procedure that will result in one clear winner
in each category.

Additionally, our editors will also give two unique

awards : 14 Best debut Model in Oman
15 Editor’s choice
At a glittering, year-end ceremony, the winners of each category will be awarded the
Automan ‘Car of Year Award’ in its class.
www.automanweb.com
 regional news
all-new revised 2011 Honda odyssey Hits
gCC markets
I t’s no secret that Honda Motor’s saw its
net profit for the last quarter of 2010 fall
nearly 40 per cent from a year ago as the
yen’s strength overshadowed cost-cutting
efforts and as demand in Japan slowed.
However, the automaker has lifted its full
year profit forecast to 530bn yen, up 97.5
per cent year-on-year with recovery seen
in the key US market where it also has
manufacturing plants for vehicles such as
the Odyssey and Pilot SUV.
First revealed as concept in early 2010
at the Chicago Auto Show, the production
version of the incoming fourth-generation
Honda Odyssey has been thoroughly
redesigned in almost every aesthetic and
functional department over and under the
skin. The heavily re-engineered MPV is larger
and wider with a lowered roofline, and is being
promoted as a modern and trendy family
vehicle. So it isn’t surprising that the incoming
Odyssey is all about functionality and making
the business for a family haul easier. It will
comfortably accommodate a family of four
and is loaded with conveniences to simplify
things. Honda says that for most purposes,
the Odyssey makes a more logical, more
compelling argument than a truck-based SUV
seCond generation all-new Bmw X3
arrives in middle east
F ollowing on from its successful debut at the Paris
Motor Show in October 2010, the all-new second
generation BMW X3 boasting redesigned exterior
and interior has now arrived in the Middle East.
BMW says the new X3 enters a new era in driving
dynamics and innovative technology. “The new BMW
X3 is a versatile
vehicle that now
shares many
of the design
c h a ra c t e r i s t i c s
found in our
hugely popular
X5 model. With
the new sportier
design, additional
spaciousness
and innovative
technology that
includes the
most fuel efficient
engines in its class, we expect this new model to
build on our successful X model story and contribute
to a fruitful year for us in 2011,” says Reiner Braun,
6
and many full-size crossovers. It weighs less,
offers better fuel economy, more passenger
and cargo room and greater flexibility in how
cargo space can be configured.
As before, powering the 2011 Odyssey is
an ultra efficient 3.5-litre i-VTEC V6 engine
with Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). To
conserve fuel when power requirements are
low, the VCM technology can allow the engine
to operate using only three or four of its six
cylinders as conditions permit. While five-
speed automatic transmission is standard,
Touring models get a six-speed automatic. Six
airbags including three-row side curtains, and
electronic stability control are standard.
director of sales and marketing, BMW Group Middle
East.
The new X3 will be offered with two new twin-
turbo six-cylinder engines mated to eight-speed
automatic transmission. The top-of-the-range model
is the xDrive 35i engine with 306bhp enables the car
to sprint from
0 to 100
km/h in just
5.7 seconds.
The claimed
average fuel
consumption
is just 8.8
litres per 100
km and CO₂
emissions
of 204g p/
km making
the X3 class-
leading
terms of performance and fuel efficiency. The
smaller engine will displace 2.8-litres.
renault
introduCes new
piCkup for oman
R enault is leading the way for small to medium
enterprises in Oman with their range of
economic and fuel friendly vehicles designed to
maximise profit and reduce running costs. “With the
addition of the Logan Pickup, Renault now offers
more choice and flexibility for enterprise owners
wanting to take advantage of our great range of
vehicles,” said Atul Dagat, COO of Suhail Bahwan
Automobiles, the sole importer and distributer of
Renault vehicles in Oman. Meanwhile, Renault as
a brand has witnessed remarkable growth in the
Sultanate. “In 2010, we witnessed 103per cent
growth in comparison to 2009. This reflects growing
consumer confidence not only in Oman, but across
the GCC and speaks to the trustworthiness and
reliability of the Renault brand,” added Dagat. The
single cab Logan pickup has a payload capacity of
800kg and a cargo bay length of 180cm, making
it attractive for end users in light industries, small
businesses and medium enterprises.
gmC yukon wins
value award
G MC’s Yukon SUV, one of the Middle East
favourites, took top honours in the full-size
SUV category of IntelliChoice’s 2011 Best Overall
Values of the Year (BOVY) awards, announced at
this year’s National Automobile Dealers Association
(NADA) convention recently held in San Francisco.
“This year’s IntelliChoice ‘Best Overall Value’ honor
reconfirms what Consumer Guide said about the
Yukon last year – that it’s a ‘best buy’. This award
is a testament of GMC’s leading position amongst
its segment. We are always striving to increase
product appeal while pushing for improved customer
satisfaction,” said Luay Al Shurafa Brand Manager
of GMC Middle East.
in
 first Jeep JamBoree Held in oman

O wning a Jeep and being able to enjoy its all-round capabilities,

especially off-road prowess can be a tough job for a novice. But Dhofar
Automotive, the official retailers of Jeep products in Oman have changed that
notion by holding its first branded event -- Jeep Jamboree Desert Crossing
– a three day adventure through the Sharqiya Sands for Jeep owners in
the Sultanate. The event began on the edge of the desert near Ibra and
ended two and a half days later on the coast at Ras Ruwais – nearly 450km
south of Muscat. “We were delighted to be able to host our first ever desert
crossing Jeep Jamboree for our customers which attracted a wide range
of Jeep owners – from families and newcomers to the Jeep families and
more experienced long-term desert drivers. A desert crossing of this nature
and camping in the wild is something that can only be undertaken with
meticulous planning and also a high degree of commitment and enthusiasm
by all of the participants,” said Chris Edwards, GM at Dhofar Automotive.

merCedes introduCes limited Bond given Carte

edition of g-Class for middle east
T he longest-serving Mercedes-Benz model series
has enjoyed superstar status for some time
now. As a tribute to the extremely important and
loyal customers in this part of the world, Mercedes-
Benz has introduced a special model of the G-Class,
exclusively designed for the Middle East: the G-Class
Arabia 100 Limited Edition. Limited to 100 units and
based on the Middle Eastern motoring heritage,
this new member of the G-Class family convinces
with its unique and exclusive design, according to
its makers. For the GCC & Levant regions, the “G”
family currently has two engine variants: The long-
wheel base G 500 which is equipped with a powerful
new regional
Head for skoda
BlanCHe to drive
5.5-litre V8 petrol engine developing 388hp and the anotHer day in
flagship G 55 AMG which boasts a V8 supercharged His Bentley
engine developing 507hp.
B ond is back and this time he is sporting a brand
new car. In the pages of Carte Blanche, the
new book by Jeffery Deaver, the fictional British
spy has continued with his preferred brand of
luxury sports car by selecting the breathtaking new
Bentley Continental GT as his transport of choice.
Carte Blanche is due to be published by Hodder and
Stoughton in the UK, a few days before Fleming’s
birthday, on 26 May. The book is half-set in Dubai,
which is where the author and the new Bond car
have been spotted, outside the Intercontinental
Hotel in Dubai Festival City. Bond’s new Continental
GT certainly suits his character, with a fabled 6.0-
Hertz eXpands litre, W12, twin-turbo engine capable of producing
uae Business 567 bhp. On his visit to Dubai to launch the book,

S koda, one of Volkwagen Audi Group brands is

relatively an unknown brand in the UAE. And
ever since Ali & Sons Group secured sole dealership
rights for Skoda last year for UAE, things have
started moving. Meanwhile, Andrew Hellyar has
taken over as Skoda Auto’s Regional Brand Manager
for the UAE. Hellyar, who boasts over 21 years’
experience marketing quality German brands, has
been a part of Ali & Sons for the past seven years.
“I am delighted and privileged to be taking Skoda
to the next frontier. The brand has so much to offer
in terms of safety, quality and value, and we have
exciting plans to communicate the brand’s values to
the local market.
U AE’s garden city Al Ain is growing as a tourism
and commercial centre and currently has
population of about 350,000 which is expected to
Jeffery Deaver said: “I’m really excited about being
back in Dubai. It is an inspirational and awe-
inspiring city and makes a perfect Bond location—
grow to reach 476,000 by 2013. Meanwhile, Plan
especially for a novel that pushes our hero to new
Al Ain 2030, a blueprint for growth created by the
extremes.”
Abu Dhabi Planning Council in 2007, states that the
emirate’s population will treble by 2030 to reach
one million residents. And this is good news for car
rental companies. Hertz UAE has wasted no time in
setting up shop in Al Ain. “The increased demand
from Hertz customers for great value and genuine
quality service in the Al Ain area made the opening
of the new branch in the Sanaiya area crucial,” says
Nigel Johnson, managing director of Hertz UAE.

Heavy equipment eXHiBition Held in oman

I nternational Heavy Equipment LLC, part of the

Zubair Automotive Group, hosted their annual
product show in Seeb. A complete range of trucks,
construction equipment, machineries and support
tools which are used in a number of industries
across the Sultanate were on display.
The event was also attended by a number of
representatives from companies such as Renault
Trucks, Volvo Trucks, Putzmeister, LIBEHERR,
Bobcat, Hi force, Parker- Striker, D.L Ricci , H & S
tools. Customer representatives were provided with
help and advice by the highly experienced sales and
service teams on hand from International Heavy
Equipment LLC.

7
 faCe to faCe

Blue oval
sets strong
foundation
for 2011

O
n the sidelines of the Environmental Grants awards in Muscat last
month, Automan caught up with Hussein Murad, regional director
for sales, Ford Middle East to know more about how the company
fared in 2010 and plans for 2011 in the region.
8
How was the year 2010 for Ford and its brands?
It was a great year. Ford posted a 28 per cent increase in its 2010
vehicle sales across GCC markets versus 2009, buoyed by strong
consumer confidence and increased preference towards Ford and
Lincoln products. 2010 was equally successful for Ford in the US, where
the company posted a strong 1.935mn full-year sales in 2010, which
represents an increase of 19 per cent over 2009 and also marking the
largest increase of any full-line manufacturer. Market share increased
for the second year in a row – the company’s first back-to-back increase
since 1993. Ford posted the industry’s highest growth rate in market
share with a full percentage point, for the second consecutive year.
and KSA are investing in expanding their networks and hiring people.
What would really attribute Ford’s success despite tough
economic conditions?
I’d say, a large portion of the success should be accredited to a wave
of new fuel-efficient, high quality models that we are now offering.
But most of all, we have been able to demonstrate that we have
tremendously improved our design, engineering, quality and reliability
and value proposition over all. These factors combine illustrate the
outstanding response from consumers towards our latest products and
the technologies we offer.

In the GCC region, which were your strong markets in 2010?

We did quite well in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and UAE where we registered
8, 10 and 6 per cent growth. Oman, Bahrain and Qatar also did well
and these countries averaged 10 per cent or more.

What are your expectations for 2011?

The company expects this trend to continue in 2011 with continued
growth in its regional market share. Our product line-up has been
refreshed and we now have segment-leading products. Actually, Ford
and Lincoln brands feature one of their most refreshed line-ups ever.
Secondly, our dealer investments are helping growth for Ford across
the region.
In terms of percentage, how much growth are you looking at?

Three Oman-based eco-programmes receive grants from Ford

Ford’s Environmental Grants totaling $1.1mn have benefited over 130 Middle Eastern environmental projects since its launch in 2000. For
2011, the budget has been set at $100,000 and three Oman-based projects were awarded a total $29,000.
An independent panel of nine jurors consisting of academics, as well as experts from environmental ministries and agencies choose the
winning projects that have demonstrated a well-defined sense of purpose; a commitment to maximising available resources and a reputation
for meeting objectives and delivering planned programmes and services.
The Environment Society of Oman received $7,000 for its project focusing on community education in Masirah Island, the world’s largest
Loggerhead Turtle rookery, Biosphere Expeditions which has projects designed at protection of the Arabian leopards in Dhofar region, received
a $12,000 and it also received $10,000 for its project protecting the reefs of the Musandam peninsula.

In 2011, we expect to do 70-75,000 units. If don’t achieve this target
this year, in 2012 we definitely will.
What are the key highlights of the business plan for 2011 Definitely
to expand the business and continue to support our new franchises.
We have appointed two dealers in Iraq and negotiating with the third.
Qatar and Jordon also now has new dealerships representing Ford.
What are the other key achievements Ford has made?
Actually, there are several which I can point out. According to a recent
J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Customer Retention Study, Ford
retained 62 per cent of its owners. We also took top honours in the 15th
annual Polk Automotive Loyalty Awards, presented at the Automotive
News World Congress in Detroit in January. Ford received awards in
several categories, including: Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer; Overall
Loyalty to Make; and Mid/Full-Size Pickup for its F-Series truck lineup,
a repeat winner in the category. This year marks the first time Ford has
won the Overall Loyalty to Manufacturer category since 1999, with a
loyalty percentage of 61.8.
Are you anticipating any effects on your business in view of
the political uncertainties that are happening in the Middle
East right now?
Well, for us at the Middle East not really, since the affected areas are
not in our territory. Most of the countries we do business with are very
stable economically and socially. Our dealers in markets such as UAE
In the coming months, what can the GCC markets look forward
to from Ford?
As you know we are promoting our highly efficient Ecoboost technologies
in our product line-up. We already have three products with it and the
the fourth one, the Ecoboost Taurus is expected in 2-3 months. At the
entry level, we have the new India-built Figo coming as well. We also
will have the new generation Explorer soon. This means we now have a
balanced and completely refreshed line of high-quality products across
the Ford and Lincoln brands and this gives us a solid foundation for
continued growth in 2011. Consideration for Ford is increasing beyond
our traditional areas of strength – signaling that the seeds of growth
already have taken hold, and this is further proof that we continue to
deliver the products that our customers are looking for.
Many countries are now looking at hybrids and EVs. Why is
this trend not picking up in this region?
As a car manufacturer, we have the technology and also the products
to support customer demand. The demand has to be generated first
besides the cars are expensive to be sold in this region. Meanwhile,
pure electric cars are not particularly suited to the Middle East climatic
conditions in terms of performance. As of now there are no government
subsidies like in western countries or specific infrastructure available.
There is no business case for electric cars in the GCC yet due to
these.

9
qatar motorsHow

Moving into
high gear
Maiden international edition of the Qatar Motor Show had an impressive
array of production cars, concepts and one off prototypes.

10
T
hat Qatar has become one of the top five performing markets in
the Middle East and it comes as no surprise that premium brands,
luxury cars and bespoke suppliers are beginning to look at this
country with more interest than before. Many motor shows in the
Middle East come in the garb of retailer-sponsored exhibitions, but this
year the focus at Qatar was to go global – in terms of presentation and
content. Organized by Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and held under
the patronage of HE Sheikh Hamad Bin Jassim Bin Jabor Al Thani,
Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, the Qatar Motor Show held
in late January presented an unprecedented number of concept cars,
supercars, prototypes and special bespoke models.
Also underlying the importance of this wealthy buyers’ market, eight
top names and talents from the Italian car design industry also
displayed their impressive creations which were co-promoted with the
Gruppo Carrozzieri Autovetture (Car Coachbuilders) of ANFIA - Italian
Association of the Automotive Industry.
Here are the key highlights from the show.
11
 qatar motorsHow

Aston Martin

While Aston Martin has started delivering its new limited production One-77
supercars costing a cool £1.2m apiece, it still has a few unsold cars [around
13] in its inventory. Qatar seemed like an appropriate venue and it wasn’t
surprising to see the car which boasts of a whopping 7.3-litre, naturally
aspirated V12 engine, which produces in excess of 750bhp and more than
750Nm of torque.

Audi

Clearly, the show belonged to the Germans especially Volkswagen Audi Group.
And it’s not surprising either. Qatar Holdings owns 17 per cent of the booming
Volkswagen Group, which makes it the third largest shareholder. The second
biggest shareholder is the German state of Lower Saxony whose Prime Minister
says that VW is “interested in a long term, good relationship with Qatar”. Audi led
the show with a spectacular presentation comprising of no less than five regional
premieres. Audi has a busy agenda for the year and it was evident at Qatar. With
the new A7 Audi is targeting a new vehicle class. The large, elegant five-door model
unites the emotion-packed character of a coupe with the comfort and prestige of a
sedan and with the functional utility of a station wagon. The new Audi A6 is set to
make its market debut in the Middle East in mid 2011 with two V6 engines and the
new A8 L W12 quattro will arrive in the region in the third quarter of 2011. Audi
also presented a limited-production version of it R8 high-performance sports car,
the R8 GT. The output of its 5.2-litre V10 has been increased to 560hp. The Audi
e-tron Spyder concept car also made an appearance as Middle East premiere. The
e-tron Spyder study indicates Audi’s capabilities in the development of mobility
systems of the future. It is a two-seater open sports car with plug-in hybrid motor.
The car is equipped with a 300hp twin-turbo V6 TDI at the rear axle and two
electric motors producing a total of 64 kW at the front axle.

Bentley

As expected, Bentley Motors unveiled the new Bentley Continental GT, the Continental Flying
Spur and Mulsanne.

<< Dubbed as the 1st Middle east

automotive summit with a reasonably
good starting point, there is still much to
do if it wants to be considered as a top-tier international event >>
BMW, MINI
Al Fardan, which also represents BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in the country had
six BMW models including the all-new BMW X3, BMW Z4, BMW X5M, X6M, BMW
ActiveHybrid 7 Series, and BMW 550 sedan. Highlight at the MINI display was the
all-new Countryman, which is the fourth model to join the MINI family and the
first ever MINI model to have four doors, four individual seats and an all-wheel
drive option.

12
 Bugatti

One of VAG’s premium performance brands, Bugatti made some headlines

with their very first appearance at the Qatar However, aficionados who were
expecting the marque’s latest Super Sport to turn up at the venue were
slightly disappointed. But the presence of the blue and white open top 16.4
Grand Sport, by far, the world’s fastest, most powerful and perhaps the most
exclusive car in its segment made up for the absence of the Super Sport.
Like with the coupe version, the Grand Sport edition is powered by an 8-litre
W16 engine that develops a whopping 1,001hp at 6,000rpm. This car will do
0 to 96km/h in an incredible 2.7secs. Top speed goes up to 406.4km/h, but
is reduced to 347km/h with the top down, obviously for safety reasons.

General Motors, GMC, Cadillac and Chevrolet

Chevrolet’s highlights at the show included the refreshed and vastly enhanced
for 2011 Chevrolet Captiva SUV. The car which is available with two powertrain
options -- a 169hp 2.4-litre ECOTEC with variable valve timing (VVT) and 264hp
3.0-litre VVT V6 engine with direct injection. A new interior, exterior, chassis
upgrades and addition to acoustic advancements. As expected, after its Middle
East debut in Abu Dhabi in December, the next regional port of call for the all-
new Camaro convertible was here. The convertible will be offered in similar model
configurations as the Camaro Coupe and this means that the standard entry
level model will have a 312hp 3.7-litre direct injection V6 engine and the high
performance SS badged model will get the 426hp 6.2-litre V8. Six-speed manual
transmission will be standard while six-speed automatic transmission is optional.
On the truck side, the a bright red and heavily chromed award winning Chevrolet
Silverado.
Keeping its promise to deliver Cadillac and GMC performance, the Mannai
Automotive Group featured the 2011 GMC Yukon Denali and Sierra Denali alongside
the Cadillac CTS Coupe, CTS-V Coupe, SRX, Escalade Platinum, CTS Sport Sedan,
the XTS concept car at its stand.

Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep

Chrysler Group brands -- Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep are in a new, dynamic, revitalised mode
and Qatar offered enough evidence of that. Giant strides that the Chrysler Group has made
in terms of design, quality, fit and finish, specification levels and absolute functionality were
evident in the displays. The array of production or new or refreshed models included the
Chrysler 300C, Grand Voyager Limited, all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7 V8 Overland
and Wrangler with the Dodge Challenger and Ram 1500 Laramie.
But the big attraction for Jeep at the show was the “Bling It” Wrangler. Prepared or “blinged”
during the show by California-based MV Designz - this one-off customisation was carried out
for Qtel’s Virgin Mobile Service - amongst the vehicle’s many special features are a custom lift
kit, cold air intake for increased power, custom wheels and tyres, high-spec audio system with
6.5in speakers and subwoofer, plus, completing the ultimate Wrangler, a specially designed
BBQ in the tailgate.

Ford and Lincoln

Al Fardan, which also represents BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce in the country had
six BMW models including the all-new BMW X3, BMW Z4, BMW X5M, X6M, BMW
ActiveHybrid 7 Series, and BMW 550 sedan. Highlight at the MINI display was the
all-new Countryman, which is the fourth model to join the MINI family and the
first ever MINI model to have four doors, four individual seats and an all-wheel
drive option.

13
 qatar motorsHow

Jaguar and Land Rover

Alfardan Premier Motors Company, the exclusive importer of Land Rover and distributor of
Jaguar in Qatar put on show the 2011 models of Range Rover, Range Rover Sport, LR2 and
Jaguar XJ, XK and XF.

Lamborghini

Lamborghini introduced a bright Aranico Borealis [orange] and black ‘Gallardo

Bicolore’. Exclusively tailored for Asian Pacific and European markets, the
560hp Bicolore comes with two tone finish in the exteriors and matching
colour treatments in the interiors. Lamborghini says that the roof of the car
will be available only in black, while several body colours such as Aranico
Borealis (Orange), Giallo Midas (Yellow), Binanco Monocerus (White),
Girigio Telesto (Grey) and Blu Caelum (Blue) are offered. The interiors are
leather wrapped with seats contrast stitching. The 15in spoke alloy wheels
are finished in titanium grey enamel and gloss black.

Maserati
Alfardan Sports Motors, Maserati exclusive importer in Qatar launched the state-
of-the-art Maserati GranTurismo MC Stradale. The car is the fastest, sleekest, most
powerful and most agile car in the Maserati range in the region which is powered
by a 450hp 4.7-litre V8 engine that offers improved fuel consumption figures over
the GranTurismo S. The Quattroporte Sport GTS was also on display.

Mercedes-Benz

From a supercharged 5.4-litre V8 and 507hp on tap, by any measure the Mercedes-Benz G55
AMG is already a pretty outrageous SUV. But knowing the appetite of customers in the region,
Mercedes-Benz have obliged the loyalists by crafting a special Arabia Limited Edition model.
The modifications are subtle, and mechanically, the G55 Arabia Edition is near identical to the
regular G55 models. A five-speed automatic transmission and a four-wheel-drive system with
locking the front, centre and rear differentials wraps up the package.

Nissan and Infiniti

Both brands were represented by Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana Company, the exclusive
distributor for Nissan and Infiniti in Qatar. The Patrol was displayed in two versions
(city and off-road) along with the Maxima and revised GT-R. Highlights of the
Infiniti stand were the recently launched 2011 Infiniti M sedan and all-new 2011
Infiniti QX SUV which was launched only late last year in other regional markets.

Porsche

Bernhard Maier, executive vice president,
sales and marketing of Porsche AG,
introduces the Panamera 4S Exclusive
Middle East Edition
While top honchos from Porsche management were at hand introducing models and gauging
the general mood, it seems that German sports car maker is using the limited edition route
to promote some of its models and now its sedan, the Panamera, gets a special edition for
the region dubbed as the 4S Middle East Edition. To be produced in a limited quantity of 66,
features that highlight this is its Carrara White Metallic exterior paint shade and Carrera Red
leather interior. The Panamera 4S Middle East Edition is powered by Porsche’s 4.8-litre V8 that
puts out 400hp. It will also come with the Sport Chrono Plus package as standard.

14
 Rolls-Royce

Roll-Royce Middle East and its local dealer Al Fardan used the venue to
celebrate their success in 2010. The dealership had on display a specially
commissioned two-tone Phantom which is said to be heavily inspired by the
design and craftsmanship of numerous architectural structures in the Middle
East, including the world renowned Museum of Islamic Art in Doha. The
bespoke Phantom commission embodies a distinguishing motif of ordered
repetition, radiating structures and rhythmic metric patterns. The Sandstone
metallic exterior paint colour symbolises the natural stone that many ancient
and modern day Arabic constructions. The second car featuring Arabian Blue
Metallic exterior paint was developed specifically for the Middle East.

Volkswagen

By far, one of the most fascinating stands at the show was that of Volkswagen.
In terms of content and presentation. First there’s the road-going version of the
Race Touareg 3, the car the recently won the 2011 Dakar Rally, and second car
that caught a lot of attraction, particularly from the locals was a 24-carat gold
plated Touareg. Although, both these cars were presented as concept models for
now, but they might become a reality if there’s a demand. VW claims that it can
also make that Race Touareg in limited numbers. The Race Touareg is powered
by a 300hp turbodiesel V6 [also used in the Dakar winning car]. The XL1 concept
car from Volkswagen showcased uses a 800cc diesel-electric plug-in hybrid that
returns an impressive 313mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just
24g/km.

How the Italian designers stole the show

T
he general consensus about established
international motor shows is that there’s
a balance between production cars
and design concepts. Concepts can be from
manufacturer-sponsored in-house set-ups or
independent specialists. Although in recent
times, manufacturer sponsored concepts that
traditionally use to occupy space have been
drastically reduced, but the Qatar international
show provided a new platform for concepts to
be showcased. With Geneva just weeks away,
it was interesting to find a significant number
of top independent Italian design houses at
Qatar showcasing and educating visitors
about the fine art and creativity involved in car
designing, one-off prototypes for connoisseurs
among others. Top eight names such as
Autostudi, Bertone, Castagna, Fioravanti,
Pininfarina, Prototipo, Salt, Spada and Touring
Superleggera are virtual household names in
Europe. “We look forward to encountering
a new market in which we can express the
creativity in luxury cars. And, why not, be the
ones to build the next one-off for the Qatar
clientele,” says Carlo Angiono, managing
director of Autostudi. Of the various displays, it Middle East as an area of great potential for
seemed to us that Pininfarina took over as the collector editions and one-offs.
leader of Italian car designers with its Nido
concept. The Touring Supperleggera Bentley
Continental Flying Star based concept was a
arguably a stunner. Designed in conjunction
with Bentley and manufactured in Milan, there
are 19 of them undergoing trials. Turin-based
Autostudi is known for innovative concept
cars and lived up to its reputation by holding
the world preview of its restyled C-Sport. The
oldest among the top Italian design houses
was Bertone. The Bertone Pandion coupè
concept pays tribute to the 100 years of Alfa
Romeo. “The Pandion is a supercar which
combines the aggressive style of a sports car
with spectacular construction solutions, with
the doors hinged in ‘inverse elytron’ manner
on the rear wheel boxes,” says Sandro
Colella, Bertone’s general manager.
Simplicity and innovation are the guiding
values in Fioravanti which, in 2008, developed
Ferrari’s first official one-off car, the Ferrari
SP1. Fioravanti showcased an open roadster
called the F100r at Qatar. Fioravanti sees the

15
 CHiCago motor sHow}

Muscle power rules!

Although much smaller than Detroit, the Chicago Motor Show sent some very strong messages to the industry and consumers alike

W
ith Detroit Auto Show behind us, our attention turned to the next significant event in the North American auto event show calendar -- the
midwestern Chicago Auto Show. While it may be the smallest of the major US auto shows, but this year’s event actually surprised many.
In terms of the number presentations, several new cars were revealed and there were several indications about innovative marketing
strategies, hints of price-driven merchandising among others. Although, several manufacturers just offered modest trim or level upgrades, but
there were some introductions that called for lengthy debates amongst industry. Our show coverage for Chicago is based on what we think
were the favourite models that debuted in the Windy City that could also be seen as significant for the Middle East markets at a later date. Also
on the sidelines of Chicago, there were some unusual incidents – a display BMW got stolen and subsequently recovered and some Toyota show
cars were damaged by vandals!

Read on…

16
 G M’s volume brand Chevrolet has an
aggressive marketing strategy for
ZL1 is being touted as the fastest Camaro
ever offered by Chevrolet and comes with
production 1969 Camaros. Although 69 cars
were built with this engine, they’ve earned
Chevrolet

the Camaro. In fact, it will be rolling
out a new special edition Camaro every
six months to help keep the nameplate
consistently fresh and exploit its heritage
as a performance model. Chevy has finally
pulled the sheet off the high-performance
Camaro. Contrary to expectations that a
Camaro with Z/28 badging would surface
at Chicago, Chevrolet didn’t disappoint
Camaro aficionados after it unveiled the new
Camaro ZL1 package instead. The Camaro
track-ready credentials such as 550hp
supercharged 6.2-litre V8, a twin-clutch six-
speed manual, magneto-rheological shocks,
14.6in brakes, technologically advanced
and highly developed chassis – all geared to
complement the car’s high performance and
handling demands.
The ZL1 name is derived from the all-
aluminium racing engine of the same name,
which was developed in the late 1960s
and installed into a handful of regular-
a remarkable cult status among enthusiasts
as they represented the peak in Camaro
performance – until now.
The 2012 ZL1 model is designed to rewrite
Camaro history by bringing a new level of
performance capability to the segment.
Obviously, the goal of the car’s development
is to reach optimal lap times on top road-
racing circuits and also offer excellent
driving dynamics on the street.

Breaking news

Chevrolet will be building 500 units of the Camaro SS convertible Indy 500 pace car this spring and the ZL1 Camaro. A limited
edition 2012 Camaro Transformers model is also expected, one that will tie in with the new Transformers film, Transformers: Dark
of the Moon, which opens this July. The V6 Camaro Synergy too will make its return in the spring.

<< in terms of floor space, the

chicago auto show is actually
the largest of the country’s big
four and is a popular venue for
manufacturers to introduce
larger vehicles like suvs and
pick-ups >>
17
 CHiCago motor sHow}

R
alph Gilles, president and CEO
of Dodge is pretty serious about
the brand and especially variant
carrying the R/T badges. Gilles unveiled
the entire new R/T Dodge line-up at the
show. Meanwhile, the in-house tuner
performance subbrand SRT also had
imitation carbon fibre and aluminium
trims. Under the bonnet, power comes
from a 6.4-litre HEMI V8 with 465hp and
630Nm of torque. It is connected to a
five-speed automatic transmission with
paddle-shifters on the steering wheel.
Meanwhile, the most interesting feature
seats in Dark Slate Nappa Leather with
Green With Envy accent bands in front
and rear. Pumping out 470hp, the new
6.4-litre V8 HEMI engine in the SRT
product lineup provides additional torque
at 2,900 rpm compared with the previous
engine. An active intake manifold and

something to say. Topping the list was
the high-performance and redesigned
2012 Charger SRT8. Gilles, who has a
design background recognizes that not
every customer wants tons of chrome
on the exterior of a vehicle and hence
decided to tone down the bling factor
in this car. The model is distinguished
from its normal siblings by a high-gloss
black grille, aggressive side skirts, a dual
exhaust system and 20in alloys. Inside,
there’s a flat-bottomed steering wheel,
sport seats with perforated suede inserts,
of the SRT8 is a data logging screen on
the infotainment system that takes all the
vehicle performance information the car
typically gathers and displays it to the
driver or passengers. These “Performance
Pages” are designed to display 0-100km/h
times, quarter mile acceleration or the ‘G’
forces.
Meanwhile, a sinister looking Challenger
SRT8 with a new and exclusive ‘Green
With Envy’ paint scheme, full-body black
stripes and 20in wheels and race-inspired
interior featuring standard SRT-branded
DoDge
high-lift camshaft with cam phasing
provides maximum low-end torque while
optimizing high-end power.
In the SUV segment, Dodge presented
a new entry level variant of the all-new
2011 Durango SUV. The USP being
affordable performance package, the
Dodge Durango Heat is mechanically
based on its R/T version, but is delivered
with aggressive styling and 3.6-litre
Pentastar V6 engine.

C S
hrysler’s marketing strategy helby pulled the wraps off the 2012 Shelby GT350. For the first time since 1970,
for Ram trucks is part of the customers are being offered a tuner package in a convertible version. Planned as a
company’s plan to catch up limited series, production of the GT350 will be limited to 350 units. Shelby will carry
with key rivals Ford and General over some of the basic hardware package from the 2011 GT350 and engine choices will
Motors. It also reflects a general include a normally aspirated 430hp V8 as well as supercharged variants that deliver 525hp
turn in the US light-truck business and 624hp, respectively.
away from marketing compact or
Shelby

mid-size pick-up trucks to entry-level

ram

buyers. The 2011 Ram Tradesman

is an entry level model aimed at
contractors or small businesses. The
new truck has a standard Hemi V8
engine with 390hp.

18
 H
yundai and Rhys Millen Racing
have pulled the wraps off the new
Veloster rally coupe at the Chicago
Auto Show. Built from the ground up, the
rally Veloster is powered by a turbocharged
hyunDai
the Summer X Games.
The second car that caught our attention
was the Genesis sedan which has been
refreshed with a number of minor changes.
Key identifiable features include modified
rewards drivers with 385hp and 439Nm of
torque, and now there’s a new R-Spec which
uses a bored out a 5.0-litre V8 developing
429hp and 509Nm of torque.
Regardless of what engine is selected,

four-cylinder engine that produces 500hp
and 813Nm of torque. It sends power to the
ground via an Xtrac six-speed sequential
transmission and an all-wheel drive system.
The car also uses a stitch-welded chassis,
low weight and high strength carbon
kevlar body panels and comes with custom
suspension, a race-spec interior, and 18in
HRE wheels. A total of three rally Velosters
will be built and they will compete in the US
Rallycross Championship (2WD/AWD) and
bumpers, a revised grille, aggressive side
skirts, and brushed aluminium window
trim. Elsewhere, there are new headlamps,
LED daytime running lights, and restyled
taillamps.
But the bigger news is actually under
the bonnet. The entry-level 3.8-litre V6 has
been given a higher compression ratio which
enables it to produce 333hp and 394Nm of
torque [an improvement of 43hp and 37Nm
respectively]. Meanwhile, the 4.6-litre V8
all models are equipped with an eight-
speed automatic transmission, beefier
brakes, and a retuned suspension with a
larger rear stabilizer bar. Additionally, the
aforementioned R-Spec model also has
a sport-tuned suspension, a recalibrated
steering system, dark chrome exterior
accents, and exclusive 19-inch alloy
wheels.

<< last month’s 2011 chicago auto

show may have come and gone
but the venue provided lots to get
excited about especially for muscle
car aficionados >>

V
volkSwagen

olkswagen took the wraps off the US-spec 2012 Jetta GLI. VW describes the car as the “most differentiated” GLI ever made. Compared
to the European version, this car features modified bumpers, a honeycomb grille, smoked taillights, a dual exhaust system, and 17in
alloy wheels. For the US markets, three trim levels will be offered. The entry-level comes equipped with sport seats, a flat-bottom
steering wheel, aluminium trim, and alloy pedals. Moving up to the GLI Autobahn adds a sunroof, dual zone climate control and 18in alloys.
Power comes from a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that develops 200hp and 280Nm of torque mated to a six-speed manual
transmission. A six-speed DSG automatic is also available for this car.

L
lexuS

exus brought a bit of Las Vegas to the Windy City with a modded version of the
company’s CT 200h hybrid hatchback. Tuned by the go-fast specialists Five Axis, the
car wears a custom widebody kit, unique paint and a lower suspension courtesy of
Tein.

19
brandwatch
Sigh of relief for Toyota
I n 2009, a rash of unintended acceleration claims
involving Toyota vehicles caused the manufacturer
to set up something similar to a rapid action force to
1
cope with the problem. Toyota first issued a safety
advisory acknowledging the issue, however, negative
media coverage put the problem in the spotlight. The
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was
Fiat frozen out in Russia
F iat, which was hoping to make a big entry in
Russia’s domestic market and boost its overall
2
growth found itself licking its wounds after a proposed
Euro 2.4bn joint venture with Sollers didn’t materialize.
Instead the Russian carmaker formally announced a
new joint venture project with Ford. The Fiat-Sollers
joint venture announced 13 months ago and called
for the production of 500,000 vehicles in Russia by
2016. This proposal surfaced after a previous plan to
Roadmap to Jaguar’s future vehicle line-up leaked
U K-based and India’s Tata Motors owned Jaguar is
all set with its own business plans which covers
activity for the next 12 years. Of course, much of the
eventual offerings will be determined by factors such
as legislation, emissions, fuel efficiency, hybridization
3
and other applications of technologies. What’s
immediate on the palate and effective later this year is
an updated version of the XK sports car. Following this
in mid-2012, Jaguar will launch a refreshed version of
BMW formally introduces a new sub brand
A fter years of speculation, BMW has finally
announced plans to introduce their new sub-
brand. To be known as BMW I, the new sub-brand will
focus on developing sustainable mobility solutions.
4
“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 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 expand its range of mobility services
Imported from Detroit
I s the new tagline for the Chrysler brand. In the US,
5
traditionally, sponsors reveal their advertising plans
at Sunday’s famous Super Bowl event, but Chrysler
remained tight lipped to create a stronger impact for
the reveal of their new ad campaign. Featuring famous
Detroiter and rapper Eminem, the brand’s new spot,
“Born of Fire,” featured the all-new 2011 Chrysler 200
and also revealed the brand’s new tagline, “Imported
20
never able to substantiate any such claims, even after
conducting multiple investigations. Not satisfied, the
Department of Transportation called in experts from
the country’s space program NASA to also investigate.
After extensive testing, NASA engineers have cleared
the company of any electronic flaws in its vehicle
software.
acquire a stake in the country’s largest automaker,
Avtovaz, fell through when the Italian firm was
outbid by its French rival, Renault. Had things gone
the Fiat way, nine new models representing C- and
D-segments as well as SUVs would have been sold on
the Russian market with up to six being produced on
a new global Fiat-Chrysler platform. Last December
in an investor presentation Fiat said it planned to sell
280,000 vehicles a year in Russia by 2014.
the XF, along with a long-rumoured wagon variant.
The XF wagon will likely be reserved for the European
market. At the tail end of 2012 Jaguar will launch a
smaller XE sports car to slot beneath the XK. Although
earlier reports suggested the smaller sports car could
employ a mid-engine layout, it appears Jag will go
with a shortened version of the XK’s platform to save
costs. In early 2013 Jaguar will release an updated
version of the XJ sedan followed by an all-new XK.
over the years ahead. To achieve this, a Venture
Capital company was founded in New York City, BMW
i Ventures, with an investment totaling up to $100mn.
An additional range of mobility services will also be an
integral component of BMW I programme. This will
allow the creation of a new, profitable area of business
over the long term and attract new customers to the
company’s brands. In addition to services developed
in-house, the BMW Group is pursuing collaborations
with partner companies and exploring strategic capital
investments in providers of mobility services.
from Detroit.” “Super Bowl advertising is about
making a statement and capturing the attention of the
audience,” said Olivier Francois, President and CEO,
Chrysler Brand and Lead Executive for Marketing,
Chrysler Group LLC.”‘Born of Fire’ is designed to
generate conversation about the brand and the new
2011 Chrysler 200. The spot reflects where the brand
is headed and pays tribute to our industrial roots.
 Ram to Be pushed
Now that Dodge and Ram are separate groups under
the Chrysler LLC umbrella, Dodge has plans to phase
out its trademark cross-hair grille from its product
6
lineup. Although, the cross-hair nose will remain
a part of the Ram truck line-up for a while, Dodge
vehicles will get a new identity that has not yet been
revealed. Ralph Gilles, Dodge CEO and Chief Designer
gm paRtneRs With gaz
I f Fiat was unlucky in its attempt in breaking into
the Russian market with a local partner, General
Motors is a couple of steps ahead in this respect.
7
GM has confirmed that it has struck a deal with
Russia’s GAZ and the joint venture will see Chevrolet
Aveo subcompacts assembled at one of the Russian
automaker’s plants. The move will help GM keep
pace with demand in the rapidly-growing Russian
Back in Business
A nother car company which has received a life-line
from India is now ready for action. South Korea
based SsangYong is set for a major revival with at
least two more new models all set to join the recently
introduced all-new Korando compact SUV. Plans for
8
a soft and medium-sized SUV have been locked in
while a small sedan and hatchback and a Toyota
Land Cruiser-sized four-wheel drive are also on the
cards if the new owner Mahindra and Mahindra, ticks
fiat-tata Joint ventuRe on shaky gRound
W hile the Jaguar Land Rover venture of Tata
Motors is flourishing, Tata Motors other venture
with Italian carmaker Fiat has not been up to
expectations. As a result, Tata Motors is redrawing
distribution plans of its joint venture with Fiat in an
9
attempt to boost sagging sales. As part of the revised
business plan, Fiat will now have its own independent
brand showrooms, although it will continue to sell cars
through Tata Motors showrooms. “We are looking at
ways to improve the sales numbers. We are not where
we want to be [of Fiat branded cars]. We are redrawing
the fast and the fuRious
F errari is fast and Ford is furious with the fact that the
Modena Italy-based supercar maker has dubbed
its Formula One race car the F150. Ferrari says this
was done in celebration of the 150th anniversary of
Italy’s unification, but folks at Ford are unimpressed.
10
In fact, Ford has filed a trademark case against Ferrari
in this respect. In its petition, Ford claims that Ferrari’s
use of the name could create confusion with Ford’s
for the Chrysler Group, recently spoke to journalists
about this decision. Gilles stated that this move will
take time but the products will evolve and go in a
different direction. In other words, no matter what
direction Dodge takes its for its styling, we can expect
the new application as early as next year.
market. Unlike China, Russia does not require foreign
companies to operate within its borders with a
partner, but many automakers find that they need
local expertise to build vehicles in the large country.
Production should begin in about a year and GM’s deal
with GAZ has no affect on the Russian automaker’s
talks with Volkswagen.
the boxes for designs that are already waiting on
the shelf in Seoul. The transition of SsangYong from
court controlled receivership to Mahindra ownership
is scheduled for next month, as a player with global
ambitions, what goes in favour of the plan is that
Mahindra will not have to invest in creating production
capacity. Ssanyong’s South Korean factory, which has
an annualized capacity of 250,000 units is currently
underutilized.
the plans to boost the sales,” said R Ramakrishnan,
Tata Motors Vice President, Commercial-Passenger
Car Business Unit.
It may be recalled that as part of a 50:50 joint venture
agreement signed in 2007, the two companies had
agreed to a joint distribution network and back-end
support besides co-manufacturing of products. Year-
on-year [April 2010-January 2011], Fiat sales were
down by 12.03 per cent. To improve the image of
Fiat, there are plans to open image brand centres in
Delhi and Pune soon.
F-150 truck. According to Ferrari, it believes that its
own contender in the forthcoming F1 championship
cannot be confused with other types of commercially
available vehicle of any sort whatsoever, nor can it
give the impression that there is a link to another
brand of road-going vehicle. Ferrari has decided to
rename the car as ‘Ferrari F150th Italia.’ Ford has yet
to respond to Ferrari’s statement or drop the lawsuit.
21
 eXClusive road test

A stAr is born I
t’s not a replacement of the coupe [also
known as the Tiburon in some markets]
that Hyundai has been currently been
selling and due for replacement soon.
Actually, Hyundai widened its coupe line-up
after it introduced the rear wheel Genesis

while hyundai has been teasing the media coupe in late 2009. With the Genesis
Coupe, Hyundai has proved that not only

and masses with a rally-ready 2012 veloster it is serious in its up market intentions,
but it also can deliver serious contenders

coupe, we at automan, were testing the pre- and at impressive prices. Now, Hyundai
revolutionizes the entry level coupe

production mule of the soon-to-arrive road segment with an unusual coupe dubbed
as the Veloster. While, the pre-production

going version of the sporty coupe in the Veloster is in its final phases of validation,
component testing and reliability sign-offs,

region the car is poised to take on the Mini Cooper,

Honda CR-Z, and Toyota Zelus.
Usually, a pre-production mule is heavily
Author Chandan B Mallik Photographs Nabeel Ferzan disguised with padding and extensive

22
 In profile, the car features “Fluidic Sculpture”, muscular hunches,
wraparound headlights and taillights. Rear end design has a dis-
tinctive glass hatch, centre mount dual chrome exhaust tips and
lower valence complementing the assertive front.
camouflage to keep the details under the
wraps. And it is well-known that rarely media
get to drive it either. We were a bit more than
lucky in that respect. The Veloster mule #001
from the Hyundai’s R&D laboratory undergoing
testing in the UAE was no exception and
when we got exclusive access to the car, it
had done over 74,000km in three months,
the target being 100,000km. As expected,
Hyundai technicians de-wired the usual array
of sensors and testing instrumentation before
letting us get a feel behind the steering wheel
of this car for a day.
Admittedly, the Veloster in unusual and
very much like the MINI Clubman in concept
and execution. It does look like a coupe when
viewed from the driver’s side, but as a hatchback
when seen from the passenger side. This is
because it features a proper hinged rear door.
This asymmetrical three-door design layout
gives easy access to the rear seat, yet retains
the most of the functionality of a traditional
hatchback. Having spent some time with the
car in ‘real time’ we can confirm that the car is
about 10in longer than the Clubman and more
than a foot shorter than the Genesis Coupe.
This means that the Veloster will eventually
sit in its own micro-niche between tiny and
compact.
Although, the car was heavily padded,
we were still able to get an idea of how the
final product would look like. In profile the
Veloster features “Fluidic Sculpture” character
lines, muscular wheel arches, bodycolour
door handles and mirrors, and wraparound
head and tail lamps. Hyundai claims that
the Veloster’s design was inspired by high-
performance motorcycles and true to that
claim, the black A-pillars did mimic the looks
of a helmet visor.
Despite the compact dimensions of the
Veloster, Hyundai’s designers have made
good use of space. Since the interior was in
the near finish stage, we can report that it
actually has more leg and shoulder room than
some of its key rivals in the class, including
the recently introduced Toyota Zelus. Despite
a squat appearance, headroom is on par
with the Clubman. Front sporty seats are
body hugging with generous lumber and side
bolstering. Despite sitting low, view from the
front seats is fairly good. Rear seat occupants
will face less glass in the sides and Hyundai
has been innovative in putting strips of opaque
layering in the rear windscreen to ensure
solar protection. While cargo space stands at
15.5c-ft, it is marginally better than the Zelus.
But where the Veloster beats the Zelus is in
the weight department. At 1,175kg, it’s more
than 180kg lighter than the Zelus and we are
sure it will also favourably enhance the power-
to-weight ratio.
Most of the surfaces in the interior were
covered, but from a design point we could
make out that it blends some of the stylish
elements of the soon-to-arrive all-new Elantra
and particularly in the centre console, while
controls resembles a sport bike fuel tank and
air vents evoking tailpipes! While, the surface
texture of most of the plastics used in the
car were unfinished, but touching and feeling
them indicates that the final tolerance and
material quality will be good.
The Veloster, on arrival will also benefit
from several upgraded or new technologies.
First and foremost it’s the all-new drivetrain
that will make its debuts on the 2012 Veloster.
Power comes from a 1.6-litre, four-cylinder
Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) Gamma
engine. Although, final specs haven’t been
revealed, it is widely believed that it will be
capable of belting out at least 138hp at 6,300
rpm and maximum torque of 123 lb.-ft. at
4,850 rpm. Hyundai’s smallest GDI engine uses
other technology such as Dual Continuously
Variable Valve Timing (meaning, it uses CVVT
on both camshafts), an electronic throttle
control and special coatings on key moving
parts to increase performance and decrease
emissions. Transmission options are either
a standard 6-speed manual or an all-new,
proprietary 6-speed dual-clutch transmission
(DCT). An Active Eco mode shifts at lower
23
 eXClusive road test
One of the display’s unique features
is an Eco Coach scoring system. This
system acknowledges fuel-efficient
driving with an eco rewards score
and it accumulates points over time
for a total Eco Score.
The passenger-side rear door handle
is hidden to maintain the coupe
design. Hyundai’s approach employs
a conventionally hinged door on the
passenger side providing safe and
ready access to the rear.
RPMs for improved fuel economy. And while
official numbers are not out, Hyundai claims
highway fuel economy with the DCT upwards
of 40 miles per gallon. We have tested the
Toyota Zelus [see page XX] and found it to
be quite sluggish in contrast to the bubbly
Hyundai.
On the handling front, the Veloster mule
appeared sharper, surefooted and very little
with the veloster, it could be the newer design paradigm for
the south Korean brand
24
The all-new Gamma 1.6-litre four-
cylinder engine is the smallest Hyundai
engine to use direct Injection technology
which helps deliver estimated highway
fuel economy of up to 40 mpg, lower
emissions and higher reliability.
body roll. The suspension packaging is right
for the purpose and includes a McPherson
strut, coil springs, gas shock absorbers and
a 24mm diameter front stabilizer up front,
while the rear uses light-weight V-torsion
beam [a Hyundai-first] with an integrated
23mm stabilizer bar to allow bracing of
the arms for greater stiffness. The rear
suspension also uses monotube shock
Veloster will be offered with an
exceptional level of standard safety
features for the sporty car segment.
Vehicle stability management system
which optimally manages electronic
stability control and the electric power
steering are factored in.
absorbers for ride comfort.
We also felt that the car’s electric power
steering was fast with its feedback. Hyundai
has planted a quick-ratio rack which is largely
responsible for that crisp feel on turn-in. On
paper, Veloster’s turning diameter of 34.1ft is
better than Zelus’s 37.4ft and Mini Clubman’s
36.1ft. Our test car was fitted with Sumitomo
low profile 215/40VR performance rubber.
Depending on trim levels, Veloster The innovative design offers surprisingly Proof of the pudding that this is the
drivers will access and manage their spacious rear seats. first official prototype undergoing
music through licensed cover art, tests.
enhanced voice recognition capabilities
and “More Like This” automatic
playlisting.

Hyundai will also offer 215/45HR17 tyres on
17in alloys for this car.
Four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-lock
Braking System (ABS) with brake assist come
standard on the 2012 Hyundai Veloster. Other
safety feature include Electronic Brake-force
Distribution (EBD), stability control and six
airbags, including dual front, front seat-
mounted side-impact, and front and rear
side curtain.
Although, the dashboard was
camouflaged, in our view perhaps one of
the most appealing aspects of the car will
be its multimedia package when it eventually
comes on the market. A Bluetooth hands-
free phone system, voice recognition and
audio streaming are standard. The Veloster’s
internal memory will store data and a USB
port lets users transfer and view photos and
videos on the models supplied with display
screens. We have tasted Hyundai’s new
optional turn-by-turn navigation, point-of-
interest guidance in the all-new Accent and
Elantra in Korea, and would be surprised if
this application was not offered.

the car’s Gamma engine is paired with a standard six-speed

manual transmission or an all-new, six-speed dual-clutch
transmission developed by hyundai

25
 {Headlines}
1 reNault aND NissaN Not to MerGe
Automan’s take: As part of the Alliance,
although Renault and Nissan have a close
working relationship, there is always
very delicate balance between the two
companies, which CEO Carlos Ghosn has
to maintain to help keep investors happy.
Ghosn recently said in an interview that
he has no plan to merge the brands.
Whether Ghosn said this because he was
under pressure from Renault investors,
we don’t know. But what we do know
TOP 10 HEADLINES
is that several influential investors were
2 astoN MartiN coNsiDeriNG straiGht-six eNGiNes
Automan’s take: Aston Martin current
has a portfolio of V8 and V12 powered
machines in its line-up, but it seems that
the car maker wants to tap some of its
past heritage in straight-six engines.
It may be recalled that at the Geneva
Motorshow in March 1993, Aston Martin
launched the DB7 to the public with a
3.2-litre supercharged straight six engine.
Aston Martin CEO Dr. Ulrich Bez let slip
that the company is considering a return
to the six-cylinder powerplant while
speaking with Piston Heads at a recent
event in Gaydon. Bez revealed that he
3 beNtley’s recorD feat oN ice
Automan’s take: Finland’s four-time
world rally champion Juha Kankkunen
narrowly missed the magical 320km/h mark
in a Continental GT a while ago. But not in
the mood to give up after reaching so close,
Kankkunen overcame the challenges of
temperatures as low as minus 30 degrees,
sudden snow blizzards and potentially
dangerous crosswinds on the 16.5km track
on a 70cm-thick layer of sea ice to set a new
world speed record on ice.
Kankkunen drove a Bentley Continental
Supersports convertible on the hazardous
frozen waters of the Baltic Sea, off the coast
of Finland, at a breathtaking 330.695km/h.
Needless to say, Kankkunen was in irresistible
form with his all-wheel drive, 6-litre, 12-
cylinder Continental Supersports convertible
which, in line with the Company’s CO2
strategy, ran on biofuel. The world’s fastest
5 New features for bMw 650i coNvertible
Automan’s take: We know that the
new-for-2012 BMW 650i Convertible
is bigger and heavier than most of the
competition, but it’s the new list of features
in the updated car that should keep sales
ticking. The refreshed car may have
seen some subtle softening of the more
audacious curves, but under the bonnet,
there’s now more fire power. Power from
the 650i’s twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8
now sits at 400hp, which is up by 40 hp
26
concerned with the automaker’s shaky
financial situation and in turm may have
put pressure on Nissan to change the
structure of the partnership. “We will
be reviewing the financial structure not
to end up with a merger, but to respond
to the main concern of investors saying,
‘Maybe you’re using too much capital
for your financial structure,’” Ghosn told
Reuters. The two brands’ alliance has
Nissan holding a 15 percent share in
Renault. Both brands have collaborated
would like to see Aston Martin return to
soft top enabled Juha to shatter his own 2007
world ice speed record of 321.6 km/h set
in the Continental GT at the same location.
Besides the PR, Bentley hasn’t wasting any
time when it comes to capitalizing on the
brand’s latest feat. It is reported that the
automaker is planning to roll out 100 special-
edition Bentley Continental Supersports Ice-
Speed Record Convertibles to commemorate
Kankkunen’s recent record-breaking ice-
speed run.
from the last-gen 6 Series – and the six-
speed gearbox has been replaced with a
slick eight-speed unit. Judging by the fact
that BMW has launched the online 650i
Convertible configurator, it appears this
big car is ready for some serious interest.
on a wide range of products and
technologies.
straight-six engines. Bez said he would
like to see a six-cylinder engine “around
2.5-litre capacity with direct injection
and turbocharging.” He added: “And
of course a straight six will fit, because
we can already get the V12s in.” Aston
Martin is under pressure to improve its
corporate emissions and the launch the
Toyota iQ-based Cygnet was seen as
one way of doing it. However, the move
to six-cylinders could resurrect Aston
Martin’s pedigree but it could also help
the sports car maker comply with the
future stringent emissions regulations.
4 Daihatsu to sell
yaris as charaDe
Automan’s take: The news came as a
bit of a surprise after Daihatsu announced
that it was planning to withdraw from
Europe in 2013. But, for the moment
there’s some news for buyers in Europe
who will be able to buy a current
generation [with bullet-proof credentials]
a rebadged Toyota Yaris. While Toyota
has made it clear that the vehicle is
being replaced with a next-generation
interpretation, Daihatsu will continue to
sell the Yaris under the Charade banner.
Daihatsu only plans to offer the vehicle
in five-door configuration, though there
will be two trim levels to pick from.
A 99hp 1.3-litre petrol engine will be
the only available power plant, though
the company will offer either a six-
speed manual or a six-speed automatic
gearbox. We hope Toyota will support
Daihatsu with innovative new products
befitting the brand in future rather than
pursuing a policy of just re-badging its
merchandise.
 6 MclareN MP 12c 2011 ProDuctioN solD out
Automan’s take: From day one, there has
been no doubt about the ability of McLaren to
produce a supercar worthy of its racetrack in-
spired badge. Till now, McLaren has received
over 2,700 firm expressions of interests and if
converted to actual sales, the number of ex-
pressions of interests to buy McLaren’s new
7 sPyKer hives off
luxury car busiNess
Automan’s take: Dutch business savvy
lawyer-turned-entrepreneuer Victor Muller’s
Spyker Cars is in the news once again. Muller’s
claim to fame is that he resurfaced a brand
no one had ever heard of in a country not
exactly known for automobile production and
then went on to set about launching its own
F1 team. That venture ended up as a flop and
cost the company millions, but it didn’t stop
Spyker surprising everyone when it bought
Saab from General Motors a little over a year
ago. But now it seems that the Saab operations
are taxing Spyker’s resources to the limit and
hence a bombshell has
been dropped in the
form of an unlikely
announcement. Spyker
is selling its luxury
sportscar business to
Coventry Britain-based
CPP Coachbuilders.
Spyker CEO and Saab
Chairman Victor Muller explains the move by
saying: “Without Spyker we would not have
been able to acquire Saab Automobile last
year but the Spyker business soon became a
small fish in a large pond as a result.”
10 Ducati-aMG PartNershiP DoiNG well
Automan’s take: Ducati is on a roll. Last
month Ducati sales in North American were
up 106 per cent year-on-year [January 2010]
and the year also saw double the market
share of 2006 and close to home in the region
a new Middle East dealership in Dubai. The
first podium in 2011 for the Ducati-AMG
partnership was achieved in spectacular style
at the Dubai 24 Hour races when a Ducati-
branded AMG SLS GT3 scored an impressive
third place. As part of the agreement signed
between Ducati and the Stuttgart-based car
makers last November, the rear wings of all
three cars entered proudly carried the Ducati
MP-12C translates to two years of production!
The final specs of the production MP4-12C was
released a few weeks ago and the car unveiled
at the Goodwood Festival of Speed earlier. Af
Af-
ter having done over one million test miles in
five continents, the MP4 is now entering its
final stages of pre-production development.
8 ferrari Posts excePtioNal busiNess results
Automan’s take: 2010 was an extremely
positive year for Ferrari, with a number of
figures exceeding those achieved in 2008 –
Ferrari’s best year ever. Cars delivered to the
sales network were 6,573, a figure representing
a 5.4 per cent increase over 2009, and Ferrari’s
highest sales figure ever. This excellent result
is mainly attributable to the extraordinary
growth seen on emerging markets, especially
in Asia, and the return of the US market to
record levels. Net revenues for the year
topped 1,9mn Euros and the year’s trading
profit topped 302.7mn Euro. The results are
due to the huge success encountered by the
9 risiNG yeN causes havoc
Automan’s take: It’s no secret that Honda and
Nissan have already posted weaker October-
December profits for 2010. Toyota has also
announced a 47.6 per cent drop in quarterly
profit, hit by slumping Japanese and US car
sales. But more than economic downturn in
global markets for these car makers, it’s the
yen which has risen 14 per cent against the
dollar since May 2010 and now at a 15 year
high is becoming a major cause for concern
when it comes to comparative advantage in
logo, an exercise that will be
reciprocated with the AMG brand
displayed on the 2011 Ducati
MotoGP Team bikes and riders’
leathers. Meanwhile, Cigarette
Racing Team and Ducati unveiled
the 42X Ducati Edition racing boat
at the Miami International Boat
Show. AMG and Cigarette Racing
Teams are top performance
icons and have teamed up with Ducati as
co-branding partners. On the product front,
Ducati has just launched its potent Diavel
sports motorcycle, which was first unveiled in
With the key
dealerships
appointed 35
markets in-
cluding the Middle East, we should be able to
spot some hot metal coming soon this way.
different models in the range. The California,
for example, is winning over more and more
customers thanks to HELE, the system that,
along with Stop&Start technology, reduces
CO2 emissions by 23 per cent. The 458
Italia went on sale in 2010 and immediately
captured the attention of the market and the
praise of critics. The limited edition 599 GTO
also proved extremely successful, with all 599
examples being sold even before the car was
officially presented at the Beijing Auto Show.
Ferrari’s personalisation business also made a
significant contribution, with a second Atelier
being opened in Maranello.
production. Now the situation is that each time
the yen appreciates translates, bottom lines
are pinched.
Now, one way of countering the negative
currency effects is to produce in low value
currency zones. While, some carmakers are
moving areas of production to other countries,
Toyota did a volta-face by investing in its first
new Japanese manufacturing facility in nearly
20 years, the Miyagi factory, 256 km north of
Tokyo.
Milan in 2010. To be available in two versions,
standard and carbon with its 162hp on tap
and alleged 0-100km/h sprint time of 2.6sec,
the bike will arrive very soon.
27
 Cover story

Charger of the new

Dodge brigade

the next stage of the all-american revival is

well under way, with chrysler corporation
continuing its brand and model consolidation
strategy. Author Raj Warrior

28
29
 Cover story

W
e were in San Diego last month to
drive some of the latest examples of
revamped models from the Dodge
line-up
The Chrysler Corporation cannot be said to
be a stranger to controversy. The Pentastar
company has been through tough times
before, albeit a couple of decades ago, when
Lee Iacocca and the US Congress in between
them managed to steer the company out of a
rather sticky situation. Unfortunately, the mood
this time around, on the back of the collapse
of the American automotive industry was
completely different. After a rather one-sided
partnership with Daimler and some time as an
investment vessel, the now bankrupt Chrysler
went into the Fiat fold. For the manufacturer
of such iconic cars as the Wrangler, Charger
and Voyager, it is a far cry from its heydays
and I have been one of the sceptics regarding
the long-term viability of this inter-continental
love affair. I particularly remember a pithy
remark I had made regarding the marriage
being one of unequals.
However, whatever the reasons for the tie-
up, it is now going strong. Chrysler gives Fiat
a long-awaited foothold in the US market and
a slew of large car and SUV platforms, while
Fiat will give the Pentastar its much needed
smaller car offerings as well as a large range
of frugal small petrol engines and revamp
its backend platforms like manufacturing,
quality control and sourcing. The long-term
relationship seems off to a good beginning for
Chrysler at least. We have seen the launch
of the new Grand Cherokee happen last year,
while this year seems to have started on an
equally refreshing note for the Chrysler and
Dodge brands. I can’t remember the last time
when so many things have been happening in
Chrysler Corporation in quick succession.
We had flown out to San Diego to
participate in the global media preview of
the latest offerings from both Chrysler and
Dodge. The main offering from Chrysler for
global audiences is the completely refreshed
300 or 300C, depending on whether it gets
the Hemi engine. Dodge on the other hand
had a much larger stable of offerings out on
display – of special import being the new
Charger, the Challenger with its 392 cu.inch
engine, the all-new Durango and the Dodge
Journey.
San Diego was a good choice as the venue
to host the event. Home to the US Navy’s
Pacific Fleet, movie lovers would also know it
as the location of the Miramar Top Gun School
where Tom Cruise earned his Maverick tag.
However in terms of reaching there, it is at
the other end of an excruciating long flight
that takes you from Dubai to the North Pole

30
 The Challenger SRT8 392

The legend of the Hemi is as much Americana

as it is Chrysler lore. The domed compression
chamber has been used on various sizes of
V8 engines through the years before the
first wave of oil price shocks in the early 70’s
sent consumers scrambling for smaller cars.
In more recent years the push-rod Hemi has
seen something of a comeback on the back
of advanced engine management and clever
engineering. Nonetheless, it is the continuing
love affair of die-hard V8-lovers in the United
States and to some degree even here in the
GCC region where fuel is cheaper than water.
So then why stop with the Hemi when you
can have the real Hemi? The 392 traces its
roots back to the racing heritage of Dodge.
The original Hemi 392 was released in the
1957 model year and replaced the 354 Hemi
in some models, but was quickly adopted in
motor racing and on drag strips. Now, after
more than a half-century, the circumstances
are substantially different. The 392 comes in to
set the defining standard on the performance
end of the mainstream models, starting with
the Challenger. The larger 6.4-litre unit now
has a claimed 470 horsepower and 470 lb-
ft of torque and this adds significantly to the
torque available to manoeuvre the car around
the skidpad. An active intake manifold and
high-lift camshaft with cam phasing provides
maximum low-end torque while optimizing
high-end power.
The 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8 392 is
available with either the standard five-speed
automatic transmission with Auto Stick or an
available Tremec TR-6060 six-speed manual
transmission that was first offered on the
2008 Dodge Viper SRT10. An improved heavy-
duty clutch provides easier shift engagement.
Additionally, for modern day concerns, the
cars fitted with the auto gearbox get the ability
to go into eco mode. Fuel Saver technology
in automatic transmission equipped models,
allows the engine to operate economically on
four cylinders or use all eight cylinders when
needed.
Under the hood, unique valve covers
with painted silver ribs and the “392 HEMI”
logo give the HEMI powerplant a clean, yet
aggressive look. A redesigned SRT-tuned
exhaust system results in a deeper, throatier
note that will surely create envious onlookers
both during daily commutes and at the race
track.
To mark the return of the 392, Dodge will be
initially offering a limited run as an Inaugural
edition. Of 1492 cars planned, 1100 will be
sold in the US, while 392 will be offered in
Canada.

31
 {Cover story}

Dodge Journey

In what seems to be the best move in terms of model

consolidation the Dodge Journey has stepped in to
take the place of the 5-seater SUV in the line-up. While
not quite replacing the Nitro’s position, it looks like the
Journey will be the preferred SUV in the range and is
set to be sold in the GCC region in a few months.
At this point there seems to be a sort of dichotomy
in what Chrysler’s positioning on the Journey is going
to be for non-US markets. The Journey is essentially a
crossover between the Minivan segment that Chrysler
has such mastery over and the traditional SUV. The
JC49 platform has a degree of commonality with the
Avenger, but has such innovations as stowaway bins at
the second row floor. Built in the company’s Mexico plant,
the car is set to be phased out of European markets
next year, to be replaced by the Fiat version called the
Freemont. However, if the GCC introduction begins this
year, expect the model to continue for quite some time
in the region. One can see the strategy evolving from
Fiat’s almost non-presence in the region.
The car itself is available with a choice of engines,
though for the GCC, it is likely to be powered only by
the new Pentastar 3.6-litre V6 engine. This engine
is going to be the mainstay of the line-up across the
three main brands of the company and has gained a
good reputation in the time it has been available with
the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
In most other terms the refreshed Journey carries
styling that connects it with the increasingly European
influences of the new design direction, five surprisingly
adaptable seats with the option of a second row with
bolster support for kids and even a version that offers
a small utilitarian third-row. We hope this isn’t on offer
in the region, what with the bigger and better Durango
coming here.

32
 The all-new Dodge Durango

This is the model that Dodge is pinning its hopes on in

the GCC region. The past couple of generations have
certainly done their bit here. From its Ram truck based
underpinnings to an SUV was a stretch in itself until the
current (or past generation depending on your time
viewpoint) edition brought with it a remarkable level of
change in creature comforts, better build quality and
the reintroduction of the 5.7-litre Hemi to replace the
older 5.9-litre V8. This Durango has had quite a long
innings by any standards and it has not been helped
along by the almost simultaneous drop in sales of large
SUVs in the US, fluctuating oil prices causing people
to shy away from the large V8s and the economic
meltdown that saw folks have to graduate to smaller,
cheaper cars.
The Durango has thus undergone one of the most
significant changes of all. For starters the platform
has now become a unibody that is claimed to be 25%
stiffer than before. As with most unibodies, there is a
significant amount of high-strength steel intermingled
with the normal steel body and the final structure is
claimed to be stiffer than Merc’s GL.
In terms of its suspension, the Durango now gets
a new layout, using short/ long arm front suspension
with isolated multi-link rear suspension. Add in more Features on the Durango
aggressive tuning to its shocks and rebound rate and
larger anti-roll bars and you can imagine how much • Uconnect Media Center with MP3/WMA and built-
more ‘European’ the ride feels. Anyone who has been in 30GB hard drive
in the Durango also knows how critical the view to the • Navigation with voice command and 6.5” screen
rear can be – in the new car, the headrests drop out of • Blind spot Monitoring - Notifies driver of vehicles
the way at the touch of a switch. traveling in their blind spot using illuminated icons
The Durango, critically for most markets, now gets
in the exterior rear view mirrors. If the turn signal
both the 5.7-litre Hemi and the new Pentastar 3.6-
is engaged when a vehicle is in the blind spot an audible chime will sound
litre V6. Effectively, this creates two distinct markets
• Camera with ability to detect cross traffic in parking lots
at the top-end of Dodge’s SUV segment. We can
see a distinct preference for the Pentastar equipped • Keyless Enter and Go
Durango evolving from families that would use the car • Hill Start Assist
for daily commutes. The Hemi-equipped Durango on • Electronic Stability Control that factors in rollover situations and adapts for trailer swing
the other hand is fully kitted out to take on the role behaviour
of an “almost” Grand Cherokee. The crucial difference
that keeps these two cars apart is the lack of a Hi-Lo
arrangement on the Durango.
The Durango features two automatic transmissions
and two available full-time all-wheel-drive systems
(V-6 and V-8 versions). The drivelines provide smooth
operation of the vehicle over a variety of road conditions.
The Hemi-powered, all-wheel-drive Durango features
a low-range transfer case for light off-road recreation
and to ease manoeuvres while towing. The 5.7-litre
has a 545RFE automatic gearbox with three planetary
gear sets, one overrunning clutch, with Electronic
Range Select (ERS) driver interactive control and an
electronically controlled torque converter clutch and an
MP3022 transfer case with two-speeds a 2.72 ratio and
variable distribution of torque front-rear.
The engineers have done a good job of retaining the
highlights that made the car so impressive to start of
with – it provides a proper third row, good cargo space,
extremely adaptable interiors and a list of features that
bring it firmly into competition with Japanese luxury
competition.

33
 {Cover
The all-new Charger
The star of the line-up and the car we were
all charged up to drive was the Charger itself.
I had kept the car to the last as it was the car
I really wanted to drive, after having driven
its cousin the 300C the previous day. The
Charger has always been close to my heart
and with its signature profile, nicely sculpted
chiselled looks and remarkable muscle car
poise, is a tough act to follow for Dodge.
Let us remember that in the first place, the
current Charger shared more than a passing
relation to the older E-class. In my opinion,
this was one of the few positives that Chrysler
derived from its partnership with Daimler.
And the Charger has had a reasonably
successful run to back it up. It is the main
model for Dodge in the region and helps the
brand consolidate the E-segment where it has
typically been at its best. So any change in the
car has to be handled with care and should be
seen to improve the car.
That said the first change you notice is
in the styling. It is evolutionary rather than
revolutionary in the shape of the new Charger.
Though in some terms it is hark back to the
past time, with the return of the twin scalloped
hood and a prominent tail-end. If at all I was
upset it was because of the loss of the swoosh
that highlights the rear haunch around the
C-pillar and the neat way in which the window
kinks up to the rear.
The new Charger does have more than a
passing resemblance to the 1968 version. If
34
story}
you really want to think Charger then you
have to remember the black chase cars in
‘Bullitt’ that chased Steve McQueen in his
Mustang. The new Charger has all the appeal
of these classics. Etched lines highlight an
amazing profile, muscle car oomph and a
new treatment around the C-pillar that blurs
the lines between large-door coupe and four-
door sedan. The car now verges on a timeless
design.
Of course we cannot forget the tail. The
tail is now ringed by 164 LEDs that combine
to give the outline of a racetrack oval, neatly
framing the taillights and giving the car instant
recognition even from a mile away.
Additionally, there have been more
engineering changes applied to the body.
The windshield gets a better rake in order to
improve visibility and the entire dashboard is
now far better to look at, eschewing its black
in favour of a brushed steel and leatherette
look.
In-dash navigation, Uconnect, a well-
placed sound system, Blind spot monitoring
and comfortable bolstering add appeal to the
car that gets the new Pentastar engine along
with the Hemi. We won’t go into the details of
the SRT8 here since we think that warrants an
article of its own in the future, but suffice to

the new charger manages to look
completely different with a throw-back
to the “bullitt” chasers. both the grille
with its new crosshair treatment and
the tail with 164 leDs are instantly
recognisable
say that with the Auto Stick shifting and the
Hemi engine in the R/T we got a more than
competent ride, with slightly stiffer suspension
than we expected on the car.
The drive route out of San Diego took us
around the backroads of the state and back
into the town. I am sure that the car could
have done the route in a third of its allotted
time, but CA’s state troopers are a notorious
lot and we stayed in speed limit most of the
time.
Dodge, a new direction
The brand seems to also be making all
the right moves in terms of branding. It has
disassociated itself from the RAM brand,
with the horns logo going to the latter and
the simpler Dodge branding is a definite
advantage. Add to that the crucial changes
that are being made in the production sphere,
with a brand new metrology department (to
ensures production quality) being set up and
the use of a system that implies a move to six
sigma manufacturing.
I guess there is a lot more steam left in
Dodge and the latest offerings seem to be the
right ones at this time in their evolution.
35
 {Cover story}

go d z i l l a
strike s b a c k
o ke lu xu r y t hrown
h an e lem e n t of besp r im age?
e c o r e w it e su p e r c a
refined to th -r los ing it s hardcor a race
1 N is s a n G t i’s y a s M a r in
in, is the 201 h e ca se at a bu Dhab
t om an inve s tigates t
au
track ography Nabe
el Ferzan
Phot
n B Mallik
Author Chanda

36
37
 {Cover
B
est of both worlds – isn’t this what
these cars are supposed to be? Nissan
designed the current GT-R [launched in
Japan in 2007 and elsewhere a year later] to
take on Porsche’s fabled 911 and in the process
also set several benchmarks. While the GT-R
has aged very well, it seems Nissan is keen to
see its flagship supercar continue in its career
before its eventual retirement. Looking back,
it seems that despite that fact it has proven
its performance credentials, but its day-to-
day refinements didn’t tick all the boxes.
Handling on road was considered rough, the
car was noisy and most of all there were some
embarassing engineering and warranty issues
in the early cars, especially with the launch
control systems.
Nissan Middle East invited Automan to try
out the VVIP GT-R at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina
track last month. Chief engineer Kazutoshi
Mizuno, also seen as the father of the GT-R
understood that such niggles could seriously
38
story}
jeopardize its career if not attended promptly.
That Mizunosan has a special bond with the
GT-R was quite evident when we first viewed
the car in the pit lane at Yas Marina. While the
current GT-R (R35) will be replaced in 2013,
Mizunosan has revised and refreshed the GT-R
for 2011 over and under the skin. As part of
an ambitious business strategy, a strictly
limited VVIP edition has also been created for
three specific markets – Middle East, Japan
and Europe. With the VVIP edition, Nissan
thinks that it has the answer: the strictly
limited edition of the ultimate expression of
the famed Nissan GT-R, lovingly bespoked for
each owner. In theory, this means no two cars
will be identical.
From the exterior, one of the giveaway
clues is the fact that only GT-R VVIP models
are available in a newly created and unique
colour called Ultimate Opal White. The metallic
paint application is quite unique as it changes
colours with different hues of natural light.
And besides the badging, cosmetic changes
include a new front bumper with integrated
LEDs, a new rear diffuser and several bespoke
options. More than that, it’s the high level
of bespoke craftsmanship that will behold
the eyes of its eventual owner. Such is the
care and attention to detail given to every
aspect of the car that many components are
meticulously hand built or finished. However,
much of the attention has been focused on
the cockpit which features an upgraded full
leather interior created by Seton Leather in
Germany. In total there are no fewer than 20
colour combinations available with either a
single colour used throughout or contrasting
treatments for the upper and lower portions
of the interior. There are ten different colour
options for the lower interior - including a
pale pink - and four for the upper section.
Further choices include the availability of six
contrasting options for the stitching. Carpeting
throughout is also colour co-ordinated. Taking
 all the possible options into account there’s
Engine remapping has ensured that both output and torque have increased from the twin turbo a total of 84 different colour combinations.
V6 from 485hp to 530hp and 588Nm to 612Nm respectively And then complementing the Seton leather
package, a suede-like material is used to trim
the headlining, sunvisors, rear parcel shelf
and lower door panels.
Leather trim now extends throughout
the interior and includes areas such as the
base of the front seats, the seat belt buckle
surrounds, the A- and B- pillars, the centre
console surround and the transmission tunnel.
Leather can even be found lining the interior
of the cup holders and covering the door sills.
Plain and quilted finishes are used to provide
visual contrasts between the sections.
Nissan claims that another example of the
time and painstaking precision involved in
the production of bespoke components is the
monogram on the steering wheel. The regular
GT-R has a mass produced enamel badge
and for the VVIP, an ancient Japanese art is
employed. The monogram is hand painted
in a traditional decoration style known as

39
 {Cover
Specially created by ‘father’ of the Nissan
GT-R, chief vehicle engineer Kazutoshi
Mizuno, the VVIP has a hand-crafted
interior using only the best quality hides
and a tailored Bose sound system.
40
story}
Urushi. For GT-R the method used is called
Makie and the skill can only be taught in the
Ishikawa Prefecture - home of the GT-R -
and even before the artisan can practise the
art, the craftsman has to be certified by the
government. In this case, each monogram
is entrusted to one man, Kubota-san of the
Goshikiya workshop. It takes many days
to build up the layers of paint to create the
depth of colour and the unique finish on the
emblem. Each one, therefore, is unique.
Similar attention to detail has gone into the
creation of a bespoke audio system for the car.
Developed by Bose, the 11-speaker system Keeping in mind the tastes of Middle East,
features a newly developed switching amp and Europe and Japan, only one specially
a world first in its use of a carbon composite created colour will be offered. However,
mounting for a new nine inch woofer. But Bose 84 combinations of interior and exterior
goes one step beyond in perfecting the system colours are being offered
for the VVIP owner. On visiting the showroom
to place the order, detailed measurements are
taken from the customer and his or her ideal
driving position is established. The customer’s
height, leg length and preferred angle of the
seat backrest are then fed to the factory to
ensure the speakers are placed in the optimum
position to optimise audio quality. It really is
a made-to-measure sound system. While,
the VVIP has been developed from the 2011
version of the Nissan GT-R, it also benefits
from a number of significant improvements
to the engine, chassis and aerodynamics. Key
engineering changes include revised mapping
 all new Gt-rs sold in Gcc will come with launch control, but it
will be known as “r-mode” officially
for the engine, changes to valve timing, larger
inlets and a revised exhaust system to help
boost rated power from the VR38DETT twin-
turbocharged twin-turbo 3.8-litre V6’s output
of 485hp and 588Nm torque to 530hp and
612Nm respectively. Changes also include
a new more rigid front strut bar made from
carbon composite, larger front brake rotors,
new lighter and stiffer wheels, and new run flat
tyres. Enhanced aerodynamics have increased
downforce by 10 per cent while chassis and
damper changes have sharpened the handling
and smoothed the ride. Mizunosan’s team have
also tweaked and massaged the GT-R’s dual-
clutch six-speed transmission. As expected,
most of the work focused on eliminating the
brutal shock of engagement during periods of
maximum stress [few early owners ended up
with shattered gearboxes]. Part of the exercise
has been to remap and upgrade the clutch
control software to deliver quicker launches,
but less traumatic to the mechanicals. The
launch control is now called R-mode and will
activate a launch from standstill at 4,000rpm.
But there’s a catch to this: the software will
allow only four sequential runs back-to-back
and after that, the car must be driven a few
kilometres to reset the system. We think it has
something to do with cooling the overheated
system.
Driving impressions
Nearly three years ago, I reviewed the Godzilla
and at the time came to the conclusion that
the car delivered robot-like perfection, yet it
lacked something that would actually bond
man and machine together. It was fast,
but noisy and rough. Although track time
allocated was very limited, it gave us time to
put the car through the paces. The north loop
was allocated for the test and Nissan’s driving
instructors had laid out the track with cones
to simulate several driving conditions ranging
from sharp braking, swift lane changes, slalom
and some tight but fast corners. Lucky for us,
we are quite familiar with the track, sweeping
curves and long straights, its cambers, turns,
acceleration and braking points and not to
forget our favourite cork screw corner of the
track.
It’s very easy to get settled in the GT-R like
any normal sports coupe and with the driver-
focused chassis and shift settings in order,
once, out of the pits, we immediately jabbed
the car’s accelerator to see how it reacted
to our instinctive inputs. The combination of
advanced electronics, including the bumped up
engine and the six-speed dual clutch gearbox
was a delight to be operated via magnesium
paddles on the steering wheel. And where the
conditions permitted on the track, we were
able to extra a high level of commitment from
the car’s performance reserves.
41
 {Cover story}

Although, the cars were outfitted with the

launch control or ‘R Start’ mode for racing
starts, it was not used. Because of this, we
disappointed a bit as we couldn’t experience
the car’s claimed 0-100km/h sprint of 2.88
seconds! While, the increase in power
and torque cuts the 0-100 km/h time to a
remarkable 3.046 seconds with top speed
of 315km/h, the GT-R VVIP is not to be
underestimated.
While the sure-footed chassis offers
unmatched traction and handling, the incoming
GT-R definitely feels much more compliant in
its ride as a result of the subtle revisions to its
springs and shock absorbers. Besides being
more comfortable and luxurious, the attention
to NVH is pretty good. And complementing
these is also the braking performance from
the larger front discs with improved fade
resistance to fade. Road grip is well managed
by the new alloy wheels. Tyres for all 2011
models are specially constructed Dunlop SP
Sport Maxx GT 600 DSST CTT ultra high-
performance run-flats filled with nitrogen. The
fronts are size 255/40ZRF20 while the rear is
285/35ZRF20.

Verdict
Using the idea of bespoke options in a
performance package, Nissan has used a
two pronged approached to extend the
shelf life of the GT-R. Expect to shell out
at least RO70,000 for the reworked Nissan
GT-R VVIP supercar if you want to join that
exclusive club of enthusiasts. While the GT-R
now enters into bespoke territory, it hasn’t
forgotten its core purpose of entertainment –
both on road and on track. The improvements
on already a potent package is impressive --
engine has more power, the suspension has
been revised, the wheels are lighter, the seats
have been redesigned, the brakes are bigger,
the chassis is stiffer and the aerodynamics
have been reconfigured to improve cooling
and provide more downforce. While we can the 2011 model promises to
empathise that this isn’t Nissan’s token “mid-
cycle refresh” to boost sales only, these are address issues such as harsh ride
changes that improve the overall drivability
and performance of the GT-R so significantly
that most will be inclined to consider it nothing
and noise levels, poor fuel economy
short of a second-generation rebirth. and things like iPod connectivity
42
43
road test

Mu s c l e t a l k p f o r 2 0 11 in the
s t he ch a ll e n ger line-u a n decides
Dod ge ex t end ion . a ut om
p im p ed u p s rt8 vers s w ith it
regio n w it h a a f ew d ay
o t o r co ld b y spending
whether it’s h el Ferzan Nabe
B Mallik Photography
n
Author Chanda

44
Editorial NomiNEE

dodgE challENgEr

PErformaNcE car

45
{road test}
C
hrysler Group is definitely on an overdrive
mode as it shifts gears under Fiat’s
stewardship. Ralph Gilles, president,
CEO of Dodge brand at Chrysler and the
perfect man for the job certainly knows what
he’s doing with the brand. A known petrolhead
in the automotive business and an authentic
Dodge Viper enthusiast, Gilles is taking the
brand to an all new level.
The all-new Challenger is among the latest
in the line-up to be reincarnated after a hiatus
of more than 35 years. This model returned
in 2008 and now as part of the Challenger
portfolio extension for the Middle East comes
an in-house tuned version. Gilles certainly
knows the where to put muscle in a car. Using
the Charger’s platform as a donor, Gilles got
the lads from Chrysler’s in-house tuning arm
Street Racing Technology (SRT) to work on the
car. As expected in the recipe, the Challenger
SRT8 merges the best American muscle-car
characteristics — powerful powertrain with
handling and some modcons to match.
Gilles is also aware of the fact that Ford’s
Mustang has been extensively refreshed and
there’s also the Chevy Camaro to contend
with. So, what’s this package all about?
Well, in theory, Chrysler has used the same
formula that Ford and many others have
used to create similar types of cars. In the
specific case of Dodge, it was by intelligently
combining the go-fast parts of Chrysler’s SRT8
cars (Dodge Charger SRT8 and Chrysler 300
SRT8) with a design based on the 1970-74
Dodge Challengers for this comeback model.
And giving the SRT8 its exclusive identity is a
numbered plaque on the dashboard and carbon
fibre-effect bonnet stripes. While, in its design
it is quite faithful to the 70s classic Challenger,
the modern elements in it ensures that it
consciously avoids falling into the category of
a retro revival. At the same time, it doesn’t
look ultra modern either. In a way that’s good,
since the car has a timeless classic appeal.
It gets four round headlamps and deeply
inset grille [hall mark of the original], though
now the inside lights are turn signals and
the outer pair the headlamps. Where signals
rode below the bumper on the ‘70 the new
one has fog lamps, and careful sculpting has
maintained the classic look without destroying
46
aerodynamic efficiency.
Although, the two-door Challenger is based
on the Charger’s platform, dimensionally it
is different. The Challenger is shorter, wider
and lower than the Charger and its wheelbase
is also shorter. Despite these alterations,
the car has nice proportions and powerful
stance. Arguably, it’s a big car, many muscle
car aficionados might miss the fact that the
Challenger is about 10in longer than the Ford
Mustang. Unlike most new cars, the maximum
width is carried well out to the ends resulting
in a broad, menacing car. Key design-cum-
aerodynamic tweaks include a fixed rear
spoiler, deep front spoiler, dedicated ducts for
brake cooling and functional bonnet scoops.
Adding class are polished aluminum fuel cap
and forged aluminum wheels.
One of the benefits of the 2+2 coupe car’s
dimensions is the fact that despite two doors
short, it clearly avoids compromising rear
seat accommodation and cargo space. The
fixed side rear windows do not allow the full
open hardtop of the original with its frameless
doors but in a nod to that look Dodge kept
the pillars behind the glass so they aren’t
so obvious. The cabin also takes us back
to the muscle car era where the focus was
more on functionality than designer kit and
gimmicks. Over all, the interior appears well
put together, with minimalist appeal, yet most
of the modern infotainment conveniences are
there. This we say because we are aware that
many muscle cars were born of generic sedans
and had similar interiors, and so too does
the Challenger mimic the current Dodge and
Chrysler sedans. However, like most coupe’s,
there’s an ensconced feeling in this dark
coloured cabin. The seats, trims and headliner
are all made of dark material. On the SRT8,
some of this monotony is broken with a dose
of chrome on door handles, control knobs and
gauges while a carbon-fibre effect touches
some parts of the trim. While a race-inspired
interior is one of the SRT division’s major jobs,
the contrast-stitched, heavily bolstered bucket
seats with leather outers and velour inserts
do an excellent job of keeping occupants in
place. However, unlike many so-called sport
seats these do not feel overly firm. Front-seat
headrests are adjustable for height only and
t Dodge challenger design team has
the
stayed true to the concept revealed at
the 2006 North american international
auto show, while drawing upon elements
from the original challenger [right]

47
{road test}
the seatbelt loop goes with it to avoid belt
chafing. Besides the unique pistol grip-inspired
gear shifter, there’s not much colour or many
fun retro touches inside.
Although the A-pillars are on the wide and
the front seats are positioned low to the glass
line, front occupants face no major impediment.
Rear view, surprisingly is fairly good, too,
because the side glass goes well back and
the rear window’s as big as the mirror view.
However, the flip side is that the wide rear
pillars block your view when reversing the car.
A manual tilt and telescope steering column
allows plenty of adjustment and a Dodge’s
previous relationship with Daimler still shows
up in the single stalk on the left. It combines
several functions -- auto-blink signals and high
beams/flash-to-pass, plus wash/wipe controls
that require you to take your hand off the wheel
48
to activate them. Cruise control is on a smaller
stalk to lower right. On the SRT8 the gauges
are light-coloured and come with backlit blue-
green illumination that matches the various
digital displays. Standard on SRT8 is a digital
message centre in the tachometer that does
the display work for many functions ranging
from radio station pre-sets to performance
data. Also available on some models is keyless
go, a no-ignition-switch setup that uses a
simple pushbutton to start the car. However,
unlike every other similar system we’ve tried
the Challenger does not have a lock/unlock
touch surface outside, so you still have to use
the key remote to lock or unlock the doors,
essentially defeating any convenience aspect
of a modern retro.
Under the bonnet, lies a 425hp 6.1-litre
Hemi V8 engine which is essentially a bored-
out version of the standard 5.7-litre engine
with 10.3:1 compression ratio and torque
of 420lb-ft. The car’s transmission is an
electronically controlled five-speed automatic,
with a lock up torque converter and AutoStick,
specifically calibrated to deliver smooth
but firm up-shifts and includes a ‘Tiptronic’
function. The Challenger’s chassis is supported
by the Charger’s dual control-arm front and
five-link independent rear suspension, Bilstein
monotube shock absorber, Brembo-designed
brakes and asymmetric tyres measuring
245/45/20 front and 255/45/20 rear.
Driving impressions
A big car with a lot of muscle and a sports
tuned suspension should in theory have an
attitude. And that was exactly what we wanted
to find out. Pressing the starter button on
the dash awakens the Hemi V8 beast and
the cabin vibrates gently as if waiting for a
cue from the driver. Since, there’s so much
engineering similarity between the Charger
and the Challenger that sometimes one does
incline to get carried away with the former’s
charms. However, the Challenger is no push
over. Although the Challenger’s wheelbase
is four inches shorter than the Charger’s,
Chrysler claims the Challenger is only 10kg
lighter than the big-brother sedan and at
1,881kg and 1,890kg respectively, both are
heavyweights in their own right. The nice part
of this car is the Hemi engine sounds good
with its throaty growl and power delivery from
the V8 is very linear.
While there’s a lot of horses to be tapped,
among the biggest offenders in this car are
the over boosted slow steering and slower
response of power released to the tap on the
accelerator. Hardly any feedback from the
front end of this nose heavy car is transmitted,
so the driver has to use his own judgement
in determining how he wants to play with
the car. Depending on driving one can induce
some steering lock and expect the nose to
react instantly into shuddering understeer, but
this is where one underestimates the chassis
of the SRT8 which just hangs on.
Grip offered by the 255/45ZR20 rear tyres
are pretty good at their job assignment that
is ensuring solid grip. As a result it’s easy
to control wheelspin from the standstill.
In general, this SRT8 is smooth and quiet
enough to cover long distances and deals
well with even secondary roads. Among the
reasons we could detect that contribute in this
polished performance and a decent ride even
though there’s body roll in corners, are surely
the lightweight aluminium wheels, aluminum-
intensive independent suspension all around,
good spring and shock calibrations.
Despite being big and not as agile as the
smaller sports coupes’ in the markets, the
car turns in responsively and corners flatly,
clinging to the asphalt with more tenacity than
you expect. The SRT8 gets it mission done,
but this is a big, heavy car that drives even
bigger and heavier than it is. The transmission
set-up is one element this car that reflects
it is a true driver oriented. It holds selected
gears without up-shifting, even when the
engine is taken to the rev limiter. While it’s OK
to consider the Challenger SRT8 an animal,
but albeit a well-behaved one, but always
ready to flex its muscles on the prowl for
prey. In Tiptronic mode, upshifts are quick,
but downshifts are a bit slow, however, the
car can be downshifted into first gear on the
move. Despite big Brembo brakes, there is a
lot of travel in the brake pedal so the initial
bite might is soft. Finally, with aerodynamics
ever-more-frequently dictating shape and
wind patterns, it was refreshing to find the
new Challenger can comfortably be driven
windows down.
Verdict
Is the Challenger SRT8 a Charger with two
less doors? The answer is yes and no. While,
it has an identical powertrain and donor
chassis qualifies it for an affirmative, on the
performance and handling side this beast can
be trusted as its handling is predictable, but
the flip side is that its size and weight denies it
to be an outright sports car like performance
and relegating it to more of a spirited highway
cruiser instead.
49
{road test}

quiet

revolution
50
the 2011 lexus ct 200h
marks the introduction of
the first, and only, full hybrid
vehicle to the core of the
premium compact segment.
automan tries out this new
arrival in oman
Author Chandan B Mallik Photography Shakil Al Baloushi

Editorial NomiNEE

lExus ct200 h

PrEmium hatch

51
{road test}
EV, ECO and NORMAL drive modes place the emphasis on specific
driving moods with particular attention paid to ride comfort, smooth
acceleration and the minimisation of NVH within the body, chassis
and powertrain. In stop and go driving situations the IC engine
will shut down and everythiing including air-conditioning will run
on electric power only. The car resume movement in electric and
switchover to IC on demand.
52
W
e are quite familiar with Toyota’s
Prius hybrid since it was launched
in 1997. Currently in its third
generation, by far it is one of the cars that not
only pioneered the popularity of hybrid cars
as an efficient transportation alternative but
also pushed Toyota’s status as a technology
leader. During three generations of Prius,
hybrid technology for cars has also taken
major strides. The CT 200h is the fifth Lexus
hybrid, and in the line-up it’s the smallest and
it also complements the US-only HS 250h.
Although, the CT200h isn’t a rebadged
Prius or HS 250h, it seems that the parts
bin at Toyota/Lexus have provided ample
opportunities for the team to create the model
at moderate development costs. Although,
the CT is built on a modified Prius/Scion tC
or Toyota Zelus chassis, it is dimensionally
different. Actually, Lexus would want us to
consider the CT 200h’s platform as new in
view of the amount of re-design and structural
modifications it has done to it. As a result, the
car’s profile and sheet metal has nothing in
common with the Prius or HS. However, from
the styling perspective, it would be difficult
to say that the CT 200h looks like no other
car, but at the same time it does look like no
other Lexus. The L-finesse signature design
cues are there and the car’s grille incorporates
a deeper and more sculpted interpretation of
the arrowhead motif. In its hatchback profile
it mimics more European flair than Japanese.
From a designer perspective, it’s neither
radical nor ultra conservative with smooth
and flowing lines starting from the soft curves
on the bonnet up to the long roofline and
straight back to the spoiler with a cool little
aero-inspired lip over the tail gate. All said
and done, it is quite an attractive car with
pleasant dimensions. At 170.1in long, 69.5in
wide and 56.7in height and 100mm shorter
wheelbase it is about the size of a Mazda3.
The aero touches also explain why this squat
car commands coefficient of drag as low as
0.29. Meanwhile, the details of the design,
trim and wheels are flawless as always for this
baby Lexus.
The interior of this car matches any
premium luxury model in the segment.
Depending on trim chosen, the level of
kit will vary. Even in basic garb, there’s a
comfortable and cosy interior. The driver’s
seating position has been designed to enable
easy access to the instrument panel and an
exceptionally busy central console which
in turn has been angled towards the driver.
The instrument cluster in our test car was a
mix of analogue and digital gauges. In the
higher spec cars, the tachometer also doubles
 Lexus’ first ever compact, five-door car, the Lexus CT 200h
full hybrid hatchback is a new segment model for Lexus

53
{road test}
up as an energy readout [depends on which
mode the car is being used]. Actually, there’s
no standard format amongst hybrid makers
about information displays or how to display
eco-driving information. It seems, it is still
in exploratory stages where carmakers are
still trying to find what hybrid drivers like or
dislike. We think in the CT 200h, the focus is
on things you might watch are clear and easy
to access. For example whether you’re in Eco,
Normal or Power mode; and fuel mileage right
now, recently, and since you started this trip
or last reset it. Also the battery status, when
it’s charging and when it’s drawing.
The electric power steering wheel is slightly
flat-bottomed. Rear seats are nice but as
typical with a hatchback, legroom is tight
and cargo space is average. The C-pillar is
also wide and hence rear view is somewhat
restricted. While top spec models get leather,
standard issue is a fabric that Lexus calls
NuLuxe. Interior trim can be matte wood,
silver metallic or bamboo. Models without
the navigation system use a different center
console and Lexus has conveniently provided a
slot on the centre console for portable devices
such as iPods or mobiles on models without
the available navigation system. Still thinking
54
of the environment, much of the plastic on
the CT 200h is vegetable based. For a car
that costs about RO13,999, despite the high
level of sophistication, you don’t get keyless
entry or modcons like mood lighting, chassis
settings or paddle shifters. But you do get
dual-zone climate control, iPod integration,
LED daytime running lights, 17in alloy wheels
and a comprehensive safety package including
antilock brakes with electronic brakeforce
distribution, brake assist, traction control,
vehicle stability control and eight standard
airbags.
The car has two sets of batteries – a lead
acid for normal duties and a nickel metal
hydride pack for the electric motors. Both
batteries are packed behind the back seat
and under the cargo compartment. There’s
a space saver and cargo area is marginally
high. The absence of strut towers in double
wishbone rear suspension [identical to the
US-only HS250h] helps increase the cargo
volume to the sides a bit and in all there’s
about 14.3c-ft of storage space available,
which is comparable to what you would find in
a compact sedan.
The CT200h’s powertrain is comprised of a
normally-aspirated 1.8-litre, 16-valve, VVT-I
DOHC four-cylinder engine that develops
98hp at 5,200rpm and 142Nm of torque at
4,000rpm. Combined with an electric motor,
generator, and 202v nickel metal hydride
batteries, both can be combined to deliver
136hp to the front wheels. Unlike the Toyota
Prius which is a plug-in hybrid, in the CT
you don’t have to bother about this aspect.
Instead, you fill the tank with petrol as you
would do in a normal car.
Driving impressions
You can be forgiven for thinking that the
cockpit of the CT belongs to that of a light
aircraft. There are no bulky shift levers to
move about. Lexus has been able to convey
the fact that this is a car which is not highly
focused on a driver playing with gears. Press
the starter switch and all you get is a series
of whirrs and hushed buzzes of an electric
solenoid or motor and then an atmosphere
eerily descends into silence in the cabin. The
driver also has to pre-select a drive mode.
The default mode is usually Normal, but twist
the rotary knob on the console one can select
either Eco or Sport mode.
Although, the internal combustion engine
seems inactive, it is ready to jump in whenever
 technology
echnology at work
W hile many rival manufacturers are yet to produce a first generation hybrid,
Toyota/Lexus already have over a decade of experience in full hybrid
powertrains. The CT 200h uses the group’s second generation full hybrid
system which comprises of a 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine, a powerful
electric motor, a 42kW generator, a high performance, 202v, 27kW
battery, a power control unit, and a power split device which employs
a planetary gear set to combine and reallocate power from the
engine, electric motor and generator according to operational
requirements. The electric motor, generator and power split device
are all housed in one lightweight,
highly compact transmission casing
directly comparable in size to that of
a conventional gearbox. Drive to the
front wheels is provided by the full
hybrid system’s seamless, Shift-by-
Wire, electric continuously variable
transmission.
The lightweight engine also
incorporates a cooled Exhaust Gas
Recirculation (EGR) system and
a third generation exhaust heat
recovery system. It generates 99
DIN hp/ 73kW at 5,200rpm and
142Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.
The 82hp/60kW electric motor
generates 207Nm of torque
from 0 rpm. The electric motor
works in tandem with the petrol
engine to boost acceleration
and power the driven wheels
alone when the Lexus CT 200h
is operating in EV mode. During
deceleration and under braking, the electric
motor acts as highoutput generator to effect regenerative braking.
When operating in a switchable EV mode, the new Lexus full hybrid generates
zero emissions, driving for up to two kilometres at speeds of up to 45km/h.
Conversely, the Lexus CT 200h boasts remarkably low fuel consumption - a
combined cycle figure of 3.8l/100km, and targets classleading CO2 emissions
of just 89g/km. The Lexus CT 200h is built at Toyota Motor Kyushu where, in
2008, the Kokura plant started operations as the world’s first factory dedicated
to hybrid unit production.

55
{ROAD TEST}
needed – especially when the hybrid’s battery
needs charging or during acceleration.
Engage the joystick lever into drive, press
the accelerator pedal and the car takes off
on electric power only. Using the electric
mode only, the car can reach speeds of up to
45km/h with a modest driving range of up to
two kilometers before the internal combustion
engine takes over. And when this happens,
you then realize how the CT200h acts as
both a series and a parallel hybrid [meaning
that the power can be electric-only or petrol-
only], but in real time it usually runs on some
combination of the two. Initial acceleration is
brisk through the shift-by-wire CVT gearbox.
The car exhibits different handling
characters – depending on which mode it
is being driven. In normal mode, there is a
feeling of mass being moved and understeer
is quite noticeable. In sport mode, the steering
tightens a bit and the effects of understeer
reduced by some extent. As a front wheel
drive, the car handles in general like a regular
hatchback and to expect a VW Golf GTI kind of
performance would be completely out of place base. Yet it makes no compromise on the inherent in the latest realisation of Lexus’
here, given the overall package and the lack of refinement and driving pleasure that hallmark L-finesse design philosophy; Lexus’ unrivalled
feedback from the steering assist especially in the progressive luxury inherent in every manufacturing quality and attention to detail;
Eco and EV modes. Despite this sluggishness, Lexus. A quiet revolution, the new CT 200h and the bulletproof customer service which
it boasts of a quick ratio of 14.6:1 and just represents the synthesis of five key Lexus lies at the heart of the Lexus ownership
2.7 turns lock-to-lock which also means that attributes: Lexus Hybrid Drive and its tailored experience.
the CT 200h’s speed-sensitive EPS is the most Energy Management System; a unique driving
direct steering in the Lexus model range. character; the dynamic yet elegant styling
The ride quality is pretty good for the car
as the fully independent double wishbone In combination, the Lexus Hybrid Drive
suspension absorbs most bumps and road
imperfections with ease. Noise and vibration system’s petrol engine and electric
management is pretty impressive on straights,
but the engine can become noisy in climbs. In motor generate a total system power
general, the car handles well, offers enough
but not generous power in Sport mode, but output of 136hp
we feel that Sport is a misnomer out here.
The CT200h could have used more sporty
elements such as paddle shifters with a CVT
having some preset gear ratio effects.
Overall, the CT200h feels quite competent
for the job, but it isn’t really a pocket rocket. In
our test period, we mostly left it in Eco mode
and cruised around for hours. The feature
that we enjoyed most was that the fuel gauge
needle barely moved with the digital readout
suggesting an extended driving range.

Verdict
Specifically designed and developed with
the European market in mind, the new
Lexus CT 200h’s size, packaging, full hybrid
technology and ultra-low emissions perfectly
meet the requirements of highly discerning,
environmentally conscientious customer

56
 preview

TesTing waTers?
Of the two South Korean siblings Kia and Hyundai, the latter is positioning itself as the
sportier of two, at least in the US with professional help
Author Chandan B Mallik

A
t the Chicago Motor Show, a show which
is where things are big and powerful, a
red and white race coloured Kia Optima
seemed a bit odd initially in a crowd of big
and burly beasts. Naturally, questions began
flying about the purpose and intention of this
display. Was Kia considering following the
lead set by Toyota in crafting a possible entry
into NASCAR? Not right now, but certainly a
Optima. Performance aside, this machine,
which is being shown off at the 2011 Chicago
Auto Show, certainly looks the part of a
credible racer. It’s worth noting that the Kia
Forte race car, also built by Kia racing partner
Kinetic, finished second in the Grand-Am race
at Daytona a few weeks ago.

WORKING PARTNERSHIP
Kia Motors North American arm is taking a lead in preparing the ground work for its possible future aspirations. The car maker’s professional
relationship with Kinetic Motorsports began in July 2009 with a request for information about racing. A month later Kinetic had built a display car
in the form of a Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge ST car for display at the opening of Kia’s new and first manufacturing plant in
the US at West Point Georgia. From there, the car was transported to the SEMA show where Kia announced its intention to take the Kia Forte
Koup racing in 2010 in the Grand-Am Series. Numerous other stops for the car included the Detroit Auto Show, Chicago Auto Show and many
others. In October 2009, two of the new Forte Koups arrived at Kinetic’s Buford Georgia facility to begin the tear down and build up process
that transforms perfectly good street cars into a fully compliant race cars from the Grand-Am Continental Tire Sports Car Challenge. Kinetic
Motorsports will campaign the Koups on Kia’s behalf with full factory support, backing and engineering and are proud to represent their sponsors
Infinity Audio products.

message did come across that the Korean

automaker has more than just a passing
interest in racing nonetheless. The 2011
Kia Optima Turbo SX built its recently
appointed Kinetic Motorsports was there
for all to see and judge.
According to Kia, this race car was
built as a prototype to showcase the
performance and racing capabilites of the

57
 preview

t a t e m e n t
St y l
te
e
n
S
s iv e ly r evised and re
-e n g in e e
u
r e
ts
d fo
ta n
r 2011, Hond
d in g
a’s
packaging
O dy s s e y M PV attempts
to

E x it s o
v ig o r a te th e segment with
rein
n B Mallik
Author Chanda

58
A
t least for now, it is beginning to get clear
where Honda is heading with its product
direction. Although Honda has earned a
reputation for producing a fuel-efficient line
up of cars and crossovers, it is beginning to
look at models that have been its bedrock and
also cost effective to produce. As the rising
yen is playing havoc with Japan’s carmakers,
Honda is a little late in understanding that it
has to work out a global strategy for effective
manufacturing. The Alabama, US-built
Odyssey tops the list of priorities and despite
the fact it’s not an all-new model but clearly
marks the next generation of one of America’s
favourite vans which is also available in the
Middle East. It seems that Honda wants to
prove that these multipurpose vehicles aren’t
just plain Jane minivans anymore.
First revealed as concept in early 2010 at
the Chicago Auto Show, the production version
of the incoming fourth-generation Honda
Odyssey has been thoroughly redesigned
in almost every aesthetic and functional
department over and under the skin. New
exterior features include revised front end with
HID headlamps and new 18in alloy wheels.
Honda not only improved the safety of
the Odyssey for 2011, but also made it more
stylish. The incoming Odyssey gets more
than a token nip and tuck upgrade. The car
now sports and aggressive stance and sporty
“lightning-bolt” influenced waistline. This
unique character line not only provides an
exclusive appearance, but also adds increased
visibility for third-row passengers. Meanwhile,
it sits lower than before and it now also wider
and longer which in turn gives it an athletic
stance and Honda claim that the overall
aerodynamic efficiency has improved by 5.5
per cent.
While, comfort and poise on the road are
top class, Honda has set up the car to carry
seven to eight adults in total or six adults
more comfortably than any full-size SUV.
New interior features add more convenience
for families, while available entertainment
technology introduces high-definition
connectivity and split-screen viewing. There’s
even a power tailgate to make loading and
unloading cargo effortless. New for 2011, the
power sliding doors can now be opened with
the brakes on, without having to shift to Park
first as in the older car. Top spec models get a
conventional rear-seat entertainment system
which uses a 16.2in widescreen that shows
side-by-side images or one panorama and has
650 watts driving 12 speakers in 5.1 surround
system.
The front-wheel drive only Odyssey is
offered with a single engine which is a
normally-aspirated 248hp i-VTEC 3.5-litre

59
 preview

V6. Honda claims the engine leads

the class in fuel economy. While
five-speed automatic transmission
is standard, Touring models get
an extra cog. Because of the extra
cog, the heaviest Odysseys are also
the quickest and easiest on fuel. As
before, Honda continues to offer
variable cylinder management or displacement
on demand to help conserve fuel when power
requirements are low. The VCM technology
can allow the engine to operate using only
three or four of its six cylinders as conditions
permit.
Further establishing its credentials in the
safety department, the 2011 Honda Odyssey
minivan has just been awarded the National
Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s best
possible overall vehicle score of five stars.
The Odyssey, which is all-new for 2011, also
excelled in the front and side crash tests.
The NHTSA’s Overall Vehicle Score is a new
score that is part of the Federal government’s
New Car Assessment Program which is first
being applied to 2011 vehicles. This one score
incorporates frontal and side crash test scores,
as well as the score for rollover-resistance.
The Odyssey’s standard safety features
include the anti-lock braking system (ABS)
with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) and
larger 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes,
and Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction
control, which helps to detect and correct
oversteer and understeer. Six airbags including
three-row side curtains and electronic stability
control are now standard.
60
midaS Volkswagen unveiled a new special edition for its SUV
Touareg at Qatar’s first international show
Author Chandan B Mallik

touch

T
he state of Qatar is quite important to
Volkswagen Audi Group and the sym-
biotic relationship also works the other
way round. Till now, a motor show in this part
of the world would hardly evoke any fan fol-
lowing globally, but this year’s show actually
featured a lot of cool cars worthy of some
attention. Among the models featured was
the Volkswagen Touareg Gold Edition which
rubbed shoulders along with with the Dakar
Race Touareg concept.
Volkswagen has added some interesting be-
spoke cosmetic touches to its stock Touareg
SUV. While the Touareg Gold Edition car re-
mains mechanically untouched, the study was
painted in “Magic Morning” white combined
with splashes of the noble metal. The large
22in wheels, roof rails, protective guard strips
and window frames were gilded with 22-carat
gold. Other elements given the gilded touch
are the mirror casings, the ‘Touareg V8’ logo
and boot sill trim.
The interior of the SUV also combines ‘Luna’
trim colour with contrasting 24-carat gold in- in
serts. The steering wheel also get a midas
touch together with the fine outlining of the
air vents, control switches and LCD display
24 carat gold treatment has been given to all
the dials, switches and other elements. The
seats are covered in Nappa leather and the
roof liner in Alcantara, while the dashboard
is trimmed in natural brown leather with con-con
trasting seams in “Magnolia” colour. Natural
brown with leather inserts in “Luna” also
adorn the floor mats. Automotive craftsman-
craftsman
ship is wrapped up at its finest and is reflected
in the Walnut Burr accents with genuine gold
marquetry – also crafted into a tasteful orna-
orna
mental pattern.
It is obvious that Volkswagen is testing wa-
wa
ters in a specific segment of customers. How
many of them actually go into production or
will this car remain strictly as a one-off would
only be known after the interest from pros- pros
pects has been evaluated and a profitable
business case established.

61
 preview

adding fuel
To fire

Toyota’s tantalising glimpse of future youth oriented cars was evident with unveiling of
the Toyota FT-86G Sports Concept car at the recent Abu Dhabi Motor show
Author Chandan B Mallik

62
T oyota Motor Corporation (TMC) is in the
process of some serious image rebuilding
– especially for young and trendy drivers.
Toyota has made it clear that wants its 2012
line-up to have a wider appeal and excitement
and hence the introduction of new first time
models. Besides reviving some of its evocative
experienced from the past for future rear-
wheel-drive sports coupe, it is also looking
at possible new variants based on the soon-
to-arrive FT-86 sports coupe which it is co-
building with Subaru.
The name revival chapter for a rear-wheel-
drive sports coupe is originally derived from
the AE-86 Corolla, which was a small, light-
weight, rear-wheel drive coupe produced by
Toyota from the 1980s. The AE-86 was a su-
per success story that went on to achieve cult
status in Japan and Europe. For the purpose
of brevity, the insider-chassis code of “AE86”
is used to describe the whole Corolla range.
In classic Toyota code, the “A” represents the
engine that came in the car (the 3A and 4A)
and the E86 represents the 6th revision of the
fifth generation (E80 series) of the E model
which is the Corolla. During its production
life, the AE86 was a popular choice for
showroom stock, Group A, and
Group N racing, especially in
rallying and circuit races.
Even after production
of the car was dis-
continued, many
privateer teams
still raced the
AE86, and
it is still a
popular
choice for
rallying
and club
ra c e s
t o d a y.
A major
factor
contribut-
ing in the
mass appeal
of the AE86, es-
pecially in motorsports was the availability of
rear wheel drive configuration, a feature gen-
erally unavailable in most current generation
Toyota has bolted a businesslike boot spoiler
that seems to come straight out of Japan’s D1
Drift series. The diffuser treatment and twin
new lightweight coupes. exhausts sign off the rear.
Now, it is obvious that Toyota is aiming at Under that vented bonnet, the FT-86’s
bringing back that excitement by connecting Subaru-derived 2.0-litre Boxer four now gains
younger drivers with an affordable sports-car a turbo but there’s no official word on power
variant which has been prepared by the car- output. Although we are aware that latest tur-
maker’s in-house customizing set-up based on bocharged flat-fours used in the new limited
the soon-to-arrive FT-86. The Toyota FT-86G Subaru Impreza R205 in Japan put out 320ps,
Sports Concept which was unveiled at Abu we can expect something close enough in the
Dhabi is not just a project car based on the FT86 G. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a
joint venture with Subaru, but with a ‘G’ badg- six-speed manual transmission.
ing it clearly indicates Toyota is pretty serious Inside the car are Recaro racing bucket
with its intentions. seats and some interesting youth-oriented
The production version of the FT-86 is a de- features. The new concept car also has a GPS-
finitive pointer of a next-generation production track day unit co-developed with the creators
sports coupe and adding even more fuel to the of the Gran Turismo computer game franchise
sport compact fire, the FT-86 G Sports Con- and automotive technology giant Denso. The
cept which Toyota unveiled at the 2010 Tokyo GPS unit will allow users to drive the car on a
Auto Salon and later in Abu Dhabi essentially real track and record the data on a removable
represents a first in a new line of factory modi- memory card. The card can be plugged into a
fied vehicles that will be sold under the new PS3 and there’s the option to either watch the
nameplate this year. The G Sports concepts lap virtually or race against your own data.
are aimed at customers who have a strong de-
sire to own a unique vehicle by offering them
both personalized interior and exterior pieces
that is designed to give the driver a sports
<< as the concept
car experience. And unlike many manufactur-
ers who depend on independent outsourcing,
car illustrates, the
Toyota has strictly kept the G Sports line as an
in-house enterprise. production model
The FT86-based concept car has undergone
an aggressive styling and performance make- is the spiritual
over. As a result, sheetmetal is much sharper
and the car appears sleeker since it is slightly
longer, wider and lower than the FT86. The
successor to
sports conversion package stretched the body
by 30mm, widened it by 20mm and lowered
toyota’s sports-
it by 30mm resulting in an overall length of
4,190mm, width of 1,780mm and height of
car heritage that
1,230mm. While the car gets a sport tuned
suspension, it is connect to the asphalt by low- features names
profile asymmetric Bridgestone tyres - 245/40
up front and 275/35 at the rear. The FT-86G such as supra and
is clearly identified through its racy graphics
and wider wheel arches which conveniently
house 19-in alloys. There’s even a carbon fibre
Mr2 >>
bonnet with intercooler vents and at the rear
63
{road test}

g e b u I l d e r
Ima ly a dd e d t h e Z e lus , it s all -new spo r
o
t
d
s
e l
co
r
u
e
p
d
e
e f
f
in
or the
e the
toyota recent t h is fr o n t -e ngined m m odels
n e -u p . c a n e v o c a t ive
Middle east li h ic h in t he p ast had
en t f or t h e brand w n decides
segm r a ? a u t o m a
a s t h e c e lic a or sup
such thor and Nabeel
Ferzan
au
n B Mallik Photography
Author Chanda

64
W
hen you talk about Toyota and a
sports coupe together, names such
as Celica and Supra flash up almost
instantly. And why not -- both names represent
at least four decades worth of Toyota’s single-
minded pursuit of the idea that a compelling
and affordable recipe for young buyers could
be created from stock mechanical hardware in
sporty coupe sheet metal profile.
It’s a formula that has worked very well for
Toyota and some other manufacturers such as
Ford. In 1964, Lee Iacocca laid the foundation
for Ford’s first Mustang [the prototype was
called T5 and it used a Taunus engine and
various components from the Fairlane and
Falcon]. While Toyota’s Celica paved the way
for affordable sports coupes, the Supra took
the experience a level further and went on
to become an iconic sports car. In fact, its
influence can be measured by the number of
appearances in video games, movies, music
videos and TV shows.
For several years, the sports coupe slot
in the Toyota line-up has been dormant and
now the carmaker wants a dynamic product
to re-energize the segment and also appeal
to younger buyers once again. To do the
job, product experts at TMC looked at the
company’s North American youth-oriented
sub brand Scion for inspiration and it seems
that the compact sports coupe currently sold
as the tC fitted the bill. For non Scion markets,
this second generation tC has been rebadged
as the Zelus and the Brazil-built car’s first
introduction in the region was at the Oman
and Abu Dhabi Motor Shows in December.
Any new car coming in as a potential
spiritual successor to either the Celica or
Supra under the Toyota umbrella not only
has surpass key standalone benchmarks
established by the duo but also be in tune
with times – especially in fuel consumption
and emissions departments, besides other
considerations such as style and appeal,
powertrain, handling and performance, safety
and over all packaging.
While, the model’s exterior dimensions are
largely unchanged from its previous version
[not sold here], the Middle East markets
benefit from the revised sheetmetal in Gen
II. The Zelus tries to depict a standalone
personality up front, although it appears to be
a clone of the current Corolla which has been
cosmetically refreshed recently. The Zelus
retains its 106.3in long wheelbase, 174.0in
length, and 55.7in height, gaining only 1.6in
in width to a total of 70.7in when compared
to its outgoing tC edition. In fact, it appears
squat and lowered as the roof has been
flattened and the glass ratio to metal reduced
all round. However, the sleek and sharpness

65
{road test}

barring a few countries, most consumers tend to think of

toyota as more of a producer of mundane transportation.
but with the new Zelus, toyota is hoping get new buyers
of the 2003 Celica’s sporty styling is lacking
despite the fact that C-pillar of the Zelus is
quite wide and over all, the car appears
muscular and aggressive with bulges and bold
character lines. If one considered the Zelus
as a 3-door fastback Corolla in the styling
department, at least, there’s satisfaction in
fact that the styling has changed direction
– the roof profile, sharper raked A-pillar and
the usage of an extra wide C-pillar point in
that direction. The styling changes have also
affected the drag coefficient which is Cd 0.325
for the Zelus vs Corolla’s 0.29.
Although, the Zelus is six inches shorter
than the current Corolla, it’s classified as a
compact car and for the front occupants it has
an incredible amount of room. Surprisingly,
as a 2+2, even rear seat passengers get
generous leg- and head-room, part in thanks
to the extended roofline. What’s more, the rear
seats have the ability to lean back up to 45° to
create further legroom. Meanwhile, call it the
segment’s design-functional-limitation where
rear seat passengers have to virtually squeeze
in and out, which can be uncomfortable and
inconvenient, especially for tall occupants.
However, Toyota tries to address at least part
of the problem by using extra wide doors. The
rear hatch opens vertically and thankfully,
there’s a full-sized spare in the boot. Rear
seats split fold 60:40 to open up cargo space.
Despite a lowered chassis, forward visibility
is quite good, thanks to the thinner A-pillar.
However, over-the-shoulder visibility has
been mostly lost due to the wide C-pillar. The
comfort offered by the six-way adjustable front
bucket seats is passable, but the rear occupant
comfort is much better. We liked the electric
tilt/telescoping leather-wrapped thick steering
wheel, also flattened at the bottom like that of
a typical racing car. We also liked the clinical
feel to the flat dashboard and motorbike
inspired gauges. Meanwhile, instrumentation is
analogue and clustered and both speedometer
and tachometer are back lit orange and have
a 3D effect at night. The digital information
centre gives the driver useful information at
a fingertip. Ergonomically, the car isn’t the
brightest when compared to the brand’s other
models, but in terms of materials and trims
used and fit quality it is typical top notch
Toyota. Infotainment is a focus area in this
car, and audiophiles, will like the sound quality
from the car’s set of three [tweeter, mid-range
and woofer] Lexus LX570 speakers in each
door. A large LCD screen sits in the central
console and simple manual rotary controls are
there for the air-con and air flow adjustments.
iPod integration comes standard.
Unlike the Supra which was offered with
both normally-aspirated and turbo charged
engines, the Zelus is offered in one set-up
and the good news is that the new normally
aspirated 2.5-litre engine comes from Toyota’s
2AR-FE family which also is used in the current
Camry. There’s a long list of modern features

66
The interior of the Zelus is black on black -- a colour combo usu-
ally chosen by coupe designers. As expected, materials, trim lev-
els and quality of fittings are typical top class Toyota.
The liftgate lifts to reveal a spacious boot. A full-size spare wheel
has also been accommodated in the package.
to the new engine: rocker arms, intake ports,
oil pumps, tumble control valves, multi-point
oil jets, low-tension piston rings. In fact,
Toyota claims that compared to the outgoing
2.4-litre engine, output is increase by 12per
cent, torque by 6.7per cent and fuel efficiency
by 2.8per cent. The engine is mated to a
six-speed electronically controlled automatic
transmission with Tiptronic function.
Strong stopping power is assured by anti-
lock brakes, vehicle stability control, traction
control, electric brake force distribution
and brake assist. On the safety front, the
supplemental restraint system features eight
airbags including knee bags for the driver and
front passenger and active headrests which
are class-leading safety features.
Driving impressions
Any update to a car that promises more power
and less fuel-consumption is well-received
and to expect brutal performance would be
over expecting. Toyota isn’t known to exploit
as much power out of this type of engine as
competitors, but it produces enough twist.
Even with a standstill to 100km/h performance
of 8.3sec, the car feels sluggish, despite the
fact it has two extra cogs and a first gear ratio
of 3.30 [vs Corolla’s 2.8 from its four speed
auto shifter]. Yes, you feel the torque at low
revs, but acceleration isn’t that impressive.
The six-speed automatic gearbox acts normal.
In between shifts are smooth and fairly sporty
even, although we felt that in Tiptronic mode
the shift response could have been faster.
Also, there aren’t any paddle shifters to play
67
{road test}
with. The front heavy sports-tuned suspension
is lively, but it seems that it is more attuned
for track days than day-to-day driving. The
flat-bottomed steering is designed more
for comfort than shuffling through corners
and doesn’t feel right for the car’s intended
purpose, however, when it comes to control,
the Zelus features one of the best steering
wheels we’ve ever felt in a compact despite
the fact it doesn’t use traditional hydraulic-
assist.
The suspension shows a good compromise
between handling and comfort, keeping the
car stable when cornering but also absorbing
and damping out bumps without excessive
harshness and this is where this car is different
than the Corolla. Thanks to the wider rear
track, the dividends -- composure and overall
stability that we experienced in twisty road
sections are quite impressive. The MacPherson
struts up front in the suspension and control-
arm at the rear help the car to be a better
handler as do the large 16in wheels. Braking is
pretty good and we didn’t note any fading.
Verdict
Toyota’s triumph card for the Zelus is getting
style and fun in one package. However,
even before we move forward, we need to
although, the Zelus is being promoted
as a sports coupe, it’s camry-derived
engine fails to lift the car’s talents
68
ascertain whether the Zelus actually qualifies
as the right candidate for this USP and more
importantly, is it a befitting successor to the
Celica or Supra?
For the latter, sadly, no, but that doesn’t
mean we have written this car off. The Zelus
may not have the styling class of the Celica or
the razor sharp road performance of the Supra,
hence, over all, it appears as a compromise
between the two extreme models.
For the purpose, the engine and transmission
are ultimately mild-mannered, but the car
has solid underpinnings with its steering, Toyota is not alone in creating a
suspension, and brakes. However, considering sports coupe from bin parts. In 1964,
the other factors that go in to a purchase Lee Iacocca laid the foundation for
decision, there are several plusses with the Ford’s first Mustang [the prototype
Zelus. First there’s rock solid presence of was called T5 and it used a Taunus
the brand in the region, its product reliability engine and various components from
in general is quite good and overall cost of the Fairlane and Falcon]
ownership and resale values are also top
scorers. In our view, the Zelus is an average
car as far as performance goes and is a good
candidate for chippers who could add some
more vroom – which it what it basically needs.
The 176hp offered in this car is inadequate
which in turn lends to its uninspiring
performance, maybe Toyota should prep it up
a bit for the intended purpose.
Blast from the past
If Toyota’s stylists wanted to make it clear
that the Supra which was produced by the
carmaker from 1979 to 2002 was something
special, they succeeded. The Supra was a
sports car and grand tourer rolled into one.
Although the styling of the Toyota Supra was
derived from the Toyota Celica, it was longer
and wider. Starting in mid-1986, the Supra
(in its third generation, Mark III) became its
own model and was no longer based on the
Celica. In turn, Toyota also discontinued using
Zelus vs Celica
the Celica name and interestingly, created a
standalone logo for the Supra.
Though this car lacks the sleek sports-car
perfection of the RX-7, it has an unmistakable
presence all its own: low, squat and slightly
outrageous, particularly the high-winged
Turbo edition. The overall design isn’t as well-
integrated as its prime rival, the 300ZX, but its
weight distribution is exemplary, a key element
in this car’s balanced handling. Supra engines
[turbo and non turbo] were 3.0-litre in-line
Zelus vs Supra
six-cylinders, with dual overhead camshafts
and 24 valves. In 1998, Toyota ceased sales
of the Supra in the US and in 2002 Toyota
officially stopped production of the Supra in
Japan. As an iconic sports car, the Supra has
appeared in numerous video games, movies,
music videos and TV shows. Some of the
most notable appearances include the Gran
Turismo, Forza Motorsport, Need for Speed,
and Midnight Club series of video games and
the 2001 film, The Fast and the Furious.
Toyota’s last Celica was
a stunner and it wasn’t just
good looks that mattered.
The Celica GT-S lead the
line-up with distinctive
styling, nice handling and
a high-strung 180hp 1.8-
litre four-cylinder engine
developed with assistance
from Yamaha.
The Supra is the best
sports car Toyota has ever
produced and one of the
best of its breed. Much like
the smaller mid-engined two-
seater MR2, the car offered
balanced performance and
was far more affordable.
With performance equal
or superior to many of the
world’s most exotic sports
cars, it would have been
easy for Toyota engineers
to forget that the Supra was
still a Toyota at heart. Supra
was offered in two engines --
the first one was a normally
aspirated high-performance,
twin-cam, in-line six-cylinder,
24-valve, electronically fuel-
injected engine with 220hp
at 5,800 rpm. In addition
to a specially tuned intake
system, it incorporated
split-exhaust manifolds
for reduced engine back
pressure, enhanced power
output and greater fuel
economy. The turbocharged
version of the engine
produced a whopping 320hp
at 5,600 rpm.
69
 spotlight
Heavy
metal
The Geneva auto salon
promises to be one of the
most exciting automotive
events for both industry
and consumers this year.
Automan explains why
Author Chandan B Mallik
F
or March, the attention of the world’s
automotive hype, glitz and glamour
has now shifted from North America to
a neutral venue in Europe, Switzerland. Al-
though there are no mainstream carmakers
in this country, you could say the sun never
sets at the Palexpo in Geneva. The buzz for
the Geneva Auto Salon had began weeks
before the actual event and it seemed that
car makers have this desired to outdo each
other with a plethora of planned information
leaks and teasers. We have compiled a list
and give compelling reasons as to why it is
so important or relevant for us as consumers.
The interesting fact is that Geneva venue is
one of the most comprehensive in the auto-
motive business – be it eco-friendly technol-
ogy, hybrids, engineering, trendy and whacky
concepts and even the odd dose of European
glamour! The interesting thing to note is how
automakers are rushing with technology ap-
plications to meet the rigid emissions and fuel
efficiency deadlines.
Here are Automan’s top reasons to be in
Geneva this month.
30 top reasons to
70
What’s on offer: Virage
Aston Significance: The Virage is a 2+2 sport coupe (GT) that
Martin will occupy a slot between the DB9 and DBS. In practice,
the Virage appears to be a facelifted or restyled DB9.
What’s on offer: A3 sedan concept
Audi
Significance: Till now, the A3 was
always available as a hatchback. This
concept study previews a production
model based on the next-generation A3.
What’s on offer: Vision Connected Drive
BMW Concept Significance: A bundle platform
for efficient future technologies and design
language that possibly hints of what BMW Z
series roadsters could look like soon.
What’s on offer: Cruz hatchback
Significance: At the 2010 Paris Auto Show, Chevrolet rolled Chevrolet
out a hatchback variant of the Cruze as a concept. Destined
for sale in Europe and the Asia-Pacific later this year, the car is
production ready.
What’s on offer: FF concept
Ferrari Significance: While we are not expecting the shooting
brake design to win everyone over, consider this California-
inspired profile car as the preview of a potential 612
successor.
What’s on offer: A3 sedan concept
Significance: These concepts come as part of Honda’s “Road
to Zero Emissions” mission. Using the current technology of Honda
hybrids and the near-future technology of plug-in vehicles, the
concept also hints at the direction and styling for its production
battery electric vehicle, the Fit EV.
What’s on offer: i40
Hyundai Significance:Hyundai
Hyundai is ready for Europe with this product
debut of its station wagon. As a wagon variant based on the
Sonata, the i40 is Hyundai’s first stab at the D-segment in
Europe.
What’s on offer: Etherea concept
Significance: This concept study is designed Infiniti
to preview an entry-level model for the brand. The
Etherea “blends elements of coupé, sedan, hatchback and even
crossover in one highly sculptural, near-mono volume form.
 What’s on offer: XKR-S
Jaguar
Significance: Billed as the “most potent series production” Jaguar ever built, an extreme variant that can challenge
supercars with its blistering performance and handling.

What’s on offer: Rio

Significance: The incoming Rio hatchback is now bigger, roomier and it combines European Kia
finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair.

Koenig What’s on offer: Agera R

segg Significance: An insane and loud version of the Agera that wants to challenge Bugatti’s Veyron. The Agera R will feature
a 5.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with a gut wrenching 1,115 bhp on tap.

What’s on offer: LP700-4 Aventador

Significance: Probably one of the best teaser campaigns prior to launch, Lamborghini Lamborghini
unveiled the rolling chassis for the V12 Murcielago replacement. Now get the full picture.

t What’s on offer: GranCabrio Sport

Maserati Significance: A sportier edition of the GranCabrio model with revised 4.7-litre V8 and bumped up output. This version
introduces MC Stradale engine specs to the rag-top along with some cosmetic enhancements.

What’s on offer: 7S Cruiserio Coupe

Significance: The first Maybach 57S Cruiserio Coupe was commissioned by a
buyer in Saudi Arabia last year. Penned by Fredrik Burchhardt of the Exelero fame. Maybach
Xenatac, the company behind is goingwvv

What’s on offer: 3 Wheeler

Morgan Significance: Perfectly road-legal in Europe and the United States, the 3 Wheeler is a
modern reinterpretation of the classic model that was built between 1909 and 1953.

What’s on offer: Rocketman concept

Significance: a new take on Oxford’s iconic Mini that will be slightly larger than the original 1959 MINI
Mini which was designed by Sir Alec Issigonis.

What’s on offer: Micra DIG-S

Nissan
Significance: Supercharging in a compact car. Actually, unveiled ahead of its debut
at the show, the focus is maximum efficiency. The DIG-S uses a supercharged 1.2-litre
three-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection and start / stop technology.

What’s on offer: 102EX Electric Phantom Prototype

Significance: Essentially a Phantom EV, the 102EX is a “test bed” which will be used to gather Rolls-
feedback about consumer acceptance of alternative powertrains. Royce

be in Geneva 30
71
 spotlight

What’s on offer: 308 facelift

Peugeot Significance: Actually revealed prior to the show, the back bone model has been extensively
revisited to offer an enhanced sense of perceived quality.

What’s on offer: Panamera S Hybrid

Significance: While purists bemoan Porsche’s rapid expansion into non-traditional segments, a hybrid
version of the sports saloon car inspired by the 111-year-old Semper Vivus has been on the cards for a while. Porsche
And here comes the first application of this technology real time in the Gran Turismo Panamera model.

Range What’s on offer: Land Rover Range_e

Rover Significance: Using plug-in hybrid technology, this car has a 3.0-litre TDV6 diesel engine, can
travel up to 32km on electricity alone before the diesel engine activates to increase the range an additional
1,080km.

What’s on offer: Captur concept

Significance: The Captur sporty SUV continues the ongoing design theme journey that was Renault
initiated by the DeZir concept last year.

What’s on offer: 9-3 Independence Edition

Saab Significance: Dubbed as the Griffin, its Saab’s way of celebrating Independence Day. While, Saab
CEO Victor Muller has prioritized 9-2 development and stated the car will ride on a shortened version

What’s on offer: ForSpeed concept

Significance: An unconventional study that combines contemporary urban mobility with the fun Smart
factor typical of smart. The two-seater has no roof or side windows!

What’s on offer: SUT 1 Concept

Ssan
gYong Significance: A revitalized company after India’s Mahindra takeover, this doublecab lifestyle truck
is a new concept model mechanically based on the Actyon SUV.

What’s on offer: Rocketman concept

Significance: car is a joint development with Toyota and is based on an all-new platform utilizing Subaru
the now highly developed horizontally-opposed Boxer engine in a rear-wheel drive format.

What’s on offer: Swift S-Concept

Suzuki Significance: The S-Concept is a sportier iteration based on the recently launched third-generation
Swift model.

What’s on offer: iQ EV prototype

Significance: Essentially, for the European markets, this near-production version of the FT-EV concept, the iQ features a newly-
developed flat lithium-ion battery that enables the car to travel approximately 105km on a single charge. The car will debut Toyota
alongside the Yaris Hybrid Synergy Drive (HSD) concept.

What’s on offer: V60 Plug-in Hybrid

Volvo Significance: Designed to combine the efficiency of diesel engines with the zero-emissions of plug-
in hybrid technology, the V60 is an eco-mentalist’s dream come true.

What’s on offer: Bulli concept

Significance: Revival of the famous 3+3 microbus with hybrid configuration. Volkswagen

72
 Oman’s Best Automotive Resource

Visit us online at

www.automanweb.com

73
 road test

for 2011, the range rover sport, land

rover’s quintessential sports tourer
suv gets a fresh dose of upgrades.
automan checks out the refreshed
model in oman
Author Chandan B Mallik Photography Shakil Al Baloushi

74
range rover
75
{ROAD TEST}

To further prepare it for rugged duty, all of the electric motors,

pulleys and bearings and air-conditioning compressor, have
been waterproofed. This enables the Sport to travel through
water 27in deep.

L
ike most expensive, low-volume vehicles,
Gaydon, UK-based Land Rover which is
now owned by India’s Tata Motors has
ensured that buyers of its baby Range Rover,
the Range Rover Sport can feel doubly assured
that the vehicle sits at the top when it comes
to technology, equipment and safety. The
Range Rover Sport was introduced in the line-
up in 2006 and the chapter of this particular
model began with a clean sheet design, classic
interpretation of the established proportions
and many styling cues from its bigger sibling’s
in a modern design package. In the midst of
all this, more lifestyle orientation, it hasn’t
forgotten the original, go-anywhere mountain
goat qualities, for which the brand is known
for. Inside, the design is pure luxury, but
with a utilitarian air and with this unique
configuration it combines a mixture of two
polar opposite characteristics in a superbly
executed working formula. Four years down
the line, a rejuvenated Land Rover introduced
a comprehensive package of engineering and
design changes for the 2010 model year.
The exterior design team virtually used
a fine scalpel to give the car a cleaner and
more sculpted feel. They also added striking
signature LED headlamps and redesigned the
front face with a new two-bar grille, matching
front bumpers and mudguards. At the rear,
new light clusters and a revised bumper
design complement the fine touches given to
front end.
But, it seems that the interior is where
a lot of action has taken place. The cabin’s
environment has been comprehensively
redesigned and there’s higher quality
materials with soft-touch finishes and tangible
improvements in craftsmanship that contribute
in creating premium level confidence. While
enjoying the serenity of the new cabin, one
doesn’t fail to notice a significant technology-
led gift that this Range Rover was endowed
with when it went through its mid-cycle
upgrade programme. Yes, we are talking about
the updated Terrain Response system which
incorporates a new launch control system
designed for driving in sand and the updated
rock crawling and descent modes and not to
forget a gradient release control to prevent
the SUV from accelerating too quickly on a
steep slope. For 2011, there’s even some great
news: the system has been updated to include
hill start assist, which holds the vehicle on a

76
 grade until the driver presses the accelerator
pedal. Actually, all these now round up the
car’s capability quotient – especially when it’s
off-road.
In between all these changes, there
have been upgrades to the multimedia and
infotainment systems also. For instance, a
new hard-drive navigation system provides
faster route calculation and improved system
reliability which is a must in these days of
The supercharged engine is the first home-built engine for a Range Rover which uses the latest generation of Eaton supercharger, a twin vortex
with dual intercoolers. Although, shared with its Jaguar cousins, it has been modified with a deeper oil pan to keep lubrication continuous when
the vehicle is tilted steep angles, especially during off-road.
prioritized end user demands.
Under the skin, the car has also benefited
from an array of advances in powertrain
packaging. When the model was launched Land
Rover offered shoppers two versions, the HSE
and the Supercharged. At the time, the HSE’s
normally aspirated 4.4-litre V8 offered 300hp
while the supercharged 4.2-litres V8 offered
390hp. Both engines were mated to a ZF
designed six-speed CommandShift automatic
transmission. The cars also had full-time four-
wheel drive with a two-speed,
shift-on-the-fly with electronic
transfer case as standard,
locking centre differential. The
rear differential lock was offered
as optional. Shift to 2011, while
both the HSE and Supercharged
variants continue, a new Limited
Edition has also been added [see
box] to the line-up.
The biggest news however,
is the fact that new Jaguar designed direct
injection 5.0-litre V8 engines [normally
aspirated and Supercharged] which currently
power the Range Rover and LR4 has been
shoe horned into the Sport as well. Although
the basic engine architecture is the same for
each brand, Land Rover engine requirements
differ to satisfy demanding all-terrain needs.
For example, they feature a deeper sump
to accommodate the extreme tilting angles
that Land Rover Range Rover Sport may be
subjected to off-road. In addition, belt drives
are waterproofed, as are the alternator, air-
conditioning compressor, power steering
pump and starter motor.
It offers 375hp in HSE and 510hp in the
Supercharged version which employs the sixth
generation of Eaton superchargers, a twin
vortex, with dual intercoolers. Meanwhile, all
models are now equipped with a silky smooth
and quick-shifting six-speed automatic
transmission [also new for 2010], with Normal,
Sport and Manual modes. The car has now a
two-speed transfer case that can be shifted on
the fly, with a low range that will help drivers
manoeuvre the vehicle easily through various
types of off-road terrian. Significantly, all this
has been achieved without increase in fuel
consumption as one would expect in enhanced
displacement engines and both engines comply
with the stringent EU5 emissions standards in
Europe.
77
{road test}

On the safety front, although this model hasn’t been crash

tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, one doesn’t feel insecure in the
Sport since it offers a wide array of standard safety gear and
plenty of electronic extras and upgrades to enhance its active
accident avoidance.

Driving impressions
Our test car was the top-of-the-line supercharged version
with Vision Assist package, premium sound system, and 20in
wheels. Our test schedule included two days of driving off-road
in and around Oman over rock and gravel filled trails and water
filled wadis. We first selected the appropriate settings from the
Terrain Response menu [it has five choices Highway, Grass/
Gravel/Snow, Mud/Ruts, Sand, and Rock Crawl]. After this is
done, one just has to do is look at the terrain ahead and the car
will drive accordingly, including setting the suspension height.
In fact, we were expecting the rock-crawling section to be really
challenging for both and driver and car. Admittedly, while we
faced quite challenging terrain, yet there was nothing that we
could find that would upset our car. Throw any terrain and this
car took it as if it didn’t exist. Not only we witnessed once again
first-hand the amazing things the 2011 Range Rover Sport was
capable of, but more importantly how the Terrain Response
system has made a difference in the overall package. We
hardly detected any loss of traction in most situations, including
climbing up a rock covered with sand. In some instances we
used Hill Descent Control which worked flawlessly to keep us
out of trouble on downhill paths where ever encountered.
Behind the scenes, it is the electronics behind the gradient

78
acceleration control that quietly kick in to
keep the car from going too fast, when Hill
Descent Control isn’t set. And the opposite,
when climbing up, we used Hill Start Assist,
to keep from sliding back when we went from
the brake to the accelerator.
On road, the car is remarkably quick and
from not taking fast corners. Basically, just point
and shoot. One of the features that significantly
contribute to the overall finesse is the car’s
ultra-refined ZF HP28 6-speed automatic
transmission. While Land Rover claims that
its characteristics have been optimized, for
us it means superb response and rapid sports
optimising both fuel consumption and CO2
emissions. Meanwhile, confidence in stopping
power is assured from the comprehensively
updated new braking system.
Verdict
The Range Rover Sport is much more

Transformation under the skin includes

two powerful and efficient new Jaguar
designed 5.0-litre engines - a naturally
aspirated and a Supercharged. Addition
of the road-focused dynamic program
to the Terrain Response system helps
enhance agility and ride quality and
chassis modifications has transformed
the car’s on-road dynamics, and helped
improve significantly its off-road
capabilities

is capable of giving some seasoned sports
sedans a run for their money. The chassis
and suspension are very well matched and
this means that while containing the body roll
effectively, it virtually de-restricts the driver
car like gear shifts. That’s not all, the car’s
power and torque characteristics make it
possible to actuate the transmission’s lock-up
clutches much earlier in each gear, reducing
slip through the hydraulic torque converter,
refined than before and its long haul career
assured with the application of cutting edge
powertrains, enhanced on and off-road
dynamics. It’s now a package that is by far
among the best in the class.

For the first time JLR engines have been designed from the
outset with the requirements of both brands in mind.

79
 {ChiCane}

Is there a case for profiling?

among the more doubtful areas of human behaviour is our tendency to generalise the characteristics
of masses from a few tenuous examples. How does profiling work to our benefit?
There are some generalisations that I am ready to accept at face value. Like the fact that 98.37% of all
statistics are made up at the moment. Or that three times out of four a slice of bread that falls off the plate
will land on its buttered side. The reason that I accept these has more to do with my total lack of interest
in the subjects – statistics having as a saving grace the proverbial allusion to swimwear in the connection
to what they hide and what they reveal and the slice of bread being thrown away whichever side it lands
on. No, it’s not that I can’t take generalisations; it is just that I hate being ground into mulch by being part
of a profiled group.
This attempt to rise from the hoi polloi has been brought about by two complete innocuous (and on
their own, completely unconnected) news stories that I read. The first was a news report on a rather shady
and incompetent pilot flying for an Indian domestic airline, who had got herself selected by submitting
fraudulent documents. She was caught out because she had perfected that ‘art’ of crash landing her plane
on its nose wheel. A major newspaper went to town saying “Woman pilot...” and the comments started
flying on the blogosphere. Most of these were about why the paper was sexist by putting the gender
in the negative headline. The remainder was in equal parts about why women made bad pilots and
standing up for good female pilots. The commentators seemed to miss the point that corruption
and fraud had put people in harm’s way and that only providence had prevented a major accident.
Compare this with a politically correct version of the same report carried by a major Australian
newspaper where the pilot was incidentally a female.
The other report was oddly enough out the same week and took the diametrically opposing
view. The European Court of Justice has ruled that insurance companies operating in the EU
could not charge men and women different premiums for the same insurance. Insurance companies
base their entire business on profiling the general population. If you don’t believe it, ask a young male
trying to buy comprehensive insurance on a motorcycle in Oman. You get better rates (or in some cases
the insurance itself) if you are older than 40 or come from the right ethnic group. Insurers believe in the
stereotypes and asking them to give the same rates to male and female buyers of motor insurance just
means that women will now pay as much as men already do. Of course this ruling has huge implications in
many spheres, including pension premiums, but if we limit ourselves to motor insurance, does that mean
that we give up profiling? Profiling is not fair in the modern world. I do not like being called a heterosexual,
middle-aged, middle-class, married Indian male though that is what I am. Where is the individual in
that? With the flaws and perfections and the small but crucial differences that say “I am not legion, I am
unique”.
To some degree, even insurance companies are willing to recognise this by allowing an accident-free
driving history to bring down your insurance premiums, believing that your good behaviour in the past is
sign enough of future safe driving.
We are not going to escape profiling and its effect on our lives anytime soon. I will still have to face the
double-whammy of paying twenty Rials and getting my Iris scanned each time in go to Dubai while my
colleague who enjoys another profile walks in without a visa fee and no eye-test. Am I any more likely than
him to be trying to cheat my way in to Dubai? Apparently the authorities there think so.
My advice to the ECJ is to avoid these esoteric judgements. They sound good on paper, but are
completely outside the ability of the human mind to integrate as part of its day to day affairs. And
corruption and fraud will do the rest, allowing incompetents to get jobs irrespective of their gender.

Raj Warrior is editor of Automan and has been in the thick of the Automotive journalism field from
the past 15 years.
Want to comment or have your say?
Email at raj@alroya.net.
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