2008 Nissan Skyline Coupe2008 Nissan Skyline Coupe

(from Nissan Press Release) Nissan Skyline Celebrates 50th Anniversary of Style and Performance

Tokyo (April 24, 2007) – Nissan Skyline celebrated its 50th anniversary today in grand style at an event held at Tokyo’s new Midtown development. Dating back to 1957, the Skyline is a legendary car in the Nissan line-up with a long heritage of style and performance, beloved by motoring fans all over the world.

Taking this opportunity, Nissan also showed the all-new Skyline Coupe today, making its first appearance in Japan. The new Skyline Coupe is scheduled for release this fall in Japan.

Present at the celebrations were the chief engineers that led the product development of each generation Skyline, including Shinichiro Sakurai, chief development engineer of the first Skyline model. The event featured a film presentation that reflected the evolution of the Skyline design, performance and image throughout the different eras of each generation Skyline.

A fashion show entitled “Skyline GT Collection” was held in commemoration of the anniversary, featuring twelve of today’s most popular fashion models, including Yoko Horiuchi. The models were dressed in specifically designed outfits, inspired by each generation Skyline.

Celebrity guests included musician Joe Hisaishi, actor Ken Watanabe, while major league baseball player Ichiro offered his congratulations via a video message. Each of these celebrities share in a common trait with the Skyline i.e. that they were born in Japan but have since gained fame and recognition in the global arena. Mr. Hisaishi’s latest composition, I Will Be, written for the Skyline’s new TV commercial, was performed for the first time by Mai Hisaishi, who is also featured on the commercial.

The Skyline 50th Anniversary exhibition, featuring each generation Skyline model, will be open to the public at Tokyo Midtown Garden from Tuesday, April 24th to Sunday, May 6th. The new Skyline Coupe and the Skyline GT Collection fashion line will be on exhibit at the Midtown Atrium from Wednesday, April 25th through Sunday, May 6th.

Renault Espace

It's hard to believe that the Renault Espace has been around since 1743.

Mainly because it hasn't. But the first-generation Espace was introduced way back in 1984 - a lifetime ago when shoulder pads were the size of badgers and MPV stood for nothing more technical than Major Perm Volume.

And as you'll have noticed if you've hailed an airport taxi recently, the original people carrier is still going strong. Renault has just released details of its 2007 Espace line-up, which includes a new entry-level Team version.

It'll weigh in at £18,595, undercutting the base Ford Galaxy and Chrysler Voyager by almost a grand.

The Espace also gets a new trim level - Dynamique S - to replace the Privilege and Initiale specifications.

And if that news wasn't enough to send you into a pique of electronica-inspired delirium, there's even a choice of two new diesel automatic engines.

The 2.0 dCi 150 Auto FAP and 2.0 dCi 175 Auto FAP get Renault's new six-speed automatic 'box, which has been developed in conjunction with Nissan.

Time to party like it's 1984.

2007 Autodelta Alfa Romeo Brera J5 3.2 C

(from Autodelta Press Release) The Autodelta Brera J5 3.2 C (C stands for “Compressore”) is a cutting-edge blend of Italian fashion and the pursuit of ultimate performance through advanced technology. It redefines Autodelta’s never-ending quest to draw the maximum dynamics and driving pleasure from Alfa Romeo’s exciting production models, and is the culmination of more than a year’s intense research and development as well as hard work and innovative thinking put into application.

Announcing that this new car is supercharged brings another strong Autodelta tradition into the equation, one that has become very central to their engineering philosophy in recent years. With a huge wealth of experience in supercharging – including its application on the famous ‘Arese V6’ with a 400bhp step arriving in final stages of its development, as well as on the direct-injection JTS engine, where Autodelta is the only company worldwide to offer forced induction on this Alfa Romeo unit (and in fact of all the major carmakers only VW have a production supercharged direct-injection engine) – it was logical that Autodelta would turn to this tradition as they looked to raise the Brera’s bite in the power stakes. The Brera J5 3.2 C’s dedicated supercharger unit is supplied by Rotrex to Autodelta; in fact the Rotrex C30-94 is considered to be the most compact supercharging unit available today noted for its durability, light inherent weight and compact form; Rotrex superchargers were also chosen by Koenigsegg to power their CCX supercar, which set the record for the fastest production car in the world. The Rotrex C30-94 properties make it perfect for installation in the Brera’s engine bay which offers little excess room, its installation and that of its dedicated oil cooler being positioned in an optimum manner to allow maximum air flow via the new Autodelta-designed front bumper.

The Autodelta Brera offers 348 bhp and 430 Nm torque, the additional 88 bhp over the standard model turning this into a powerful four wheel drive 2+2 sportscar easily capable of fulfilling its driver’s innermost demands and desires. 0-100 km/h is achieved in 5.3 seconds while top speed is 260 km/h. However an Autodelta model is always an all-round player, and the Brera J5 3.2 C is the complete package, fully developed in every area, the result of much of hard work which focused in detail on every aspect of the sports car. The Brera’s engine electronics have been significantly re-mapped to make sure that power is put down in an optimum manner, with smooth delivery and in perfect synergy with the car’s capabilities. A brand new stainless-steel exhaust system, created in conjunction with Autodelta’s exhaust development partner Ragazzon, offers optimum gasflow properties as well as a distinct Alfa Romeo exhaust “note”, and is immediately recognisable by its quad-oval tail pipes which are each engraved with the Autodelta legend. The suspension has been re-worked with new Autodelta Sport Line Dampers with Coil Over springs being specially developed for the car; while an upgraded braking system perfectly manages the additional requirements demanded of it by all the extra power.

Autodelta is also about style, and this area of the car has not been neglected by our experienced design team. A typical Alfa Romeo driver demands performance with inherent Italian styling; understated but individual. An Autodelta driver also makes these demands, but pushed to a further level; understated charms combined with aggression, sleek yet with the exclusive handcrafted Autodelta tradition instantly recognisable. To achieve these core requirements Autodelta’s designers have evolved the “F1 look” that they first introduced on the Autodelta GT Super in 2004 and then the Autodelta 147 GTA AM Super (2005). With this dashing styling treatment, the front bumper arches upwards to meet the traditional “heart” grille, that most famous of all Alfa Romeo symbols, and one which sets an Alfa Romeo apart from the crowd. This remains the most distinctive feature of the car that Autodelta’s designers seek to amplify, but never challenge. The new front bumper at the same time has been optimised to provide maximum delivery of air to the new supercharger oil cooler via the introduction of extra cooling slots on the bumper’s flanks. At the rear, the customary Autodelta splitter enhances the curving rump of the Brera. The subtle but distinctive looks of the Brera J5 3.2 C are finally completed by 19-inch OZ Racing Ultraleggera wheels and Dunlop SP Sport Maxx tyres; OZ Racing and Dunlop tyres are also development partners in the Brera J5 3.2 C project.

Ford Trasit Sportvan

Transit van modifications are usually limited to a selection of deeply witty slogans scratched in the dirt on the rear doors, with a selection of choice dents for good measure.

But we've found the Transit that takes White Van Man mods to a new level.

Unveiled at the Commercial Vehicle Show this week (if you weren't there, why not?), the Transit SportVan was introduced to the world by TG's good friend Sabine Schmidtz - she who terrified Richard all the way round the 'Ring.

Limited to a production run of just 500, the SportVan is aimed at those who want to make a 'bold statement' with their van.

We can't argue with that. With a custom paintjob, bonnet stripes a la Fiesta ST, twin exhausts and full bodykit, the SportVan looks every inch the race-honed repo van.

There's no upgrade in performance, though, because the short wheelbase SportVan retains the standard 128bhp TDCi Duratorq engine.

No matter: it's still cool... in a sort of porno-stash chic fashion. You'll be seeing SportVans with 'I wish my wife was this sporting' scrawled across their panels from June this year.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette: Iconic Sports Car Recieves Larger, More Powerful LS3 6.2L V-8 and Host of Driving, Interior Refinements

Chevrolet Corvette & Corvette Z06

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

2007-04-27 -- Get comfortable. There’s so much new and exciting with the 2008 Corvette that you’ll want to grab a hot drink, sidle up to your computer screen and absorb all the details.

New for 2008:

• All-new LS3 6.2L V-8 engine for Coupe and Convertible:
• 430 hp (321 kW)*
• 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm)*
• 436 hp / 428 lb.-ft. (325 kW / 580 Nm)* with new, optional dual-mode exhaust system
• High-flow cylinder heads
• Enhanced valvetrain
• High-flow intake manifold
• Larger-bore block with structural enhancements
• Improved manual transmission shift effort
• Quicker shift times on paddle-shift six-speed automatic
• 2.73 performance axle ratio available with six-speed paddle shift; included with Z51 package
• Improved steering feel
• Standard split-spoke cast aluminum wheel design for Coupe and Convertible (Competition Gray finish optional)
• Available polished forged aluminum wheel design
• New Keyless Access remote key fob with integrated key
• Interior trim enhancements for all models, including wrapped center trim plate with Cyber pattern and new, brushed aluminum accents
• Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package available for all models in exclusive, new Linen and Sienna colors
• New sill plates
• iPod/MP3 jack included on all sound systems except navigation (Personal Audio Link available as accessory for navigation system)
• OnStar and XM Satellite Radio standard on all models
• Auto-dimming mirrors with compass standard on all models
• Two new premium exterior colors: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat

Model Lineup

	Engines		Transmissions
	6.2L V-8 (LS3)	7.0L V-8 (LS7)	6-spd manual	6-spd paddle shift automatic
Corvette Coupe	s	–	s	o
Corvette Convertible	s	–	s	o
Corvette Z06	–	s	s	–

Key:
Standard	s
Optional	o
Not available	–

The changes involve everything from an all-new, larger and more powerful V-8 engine to refinements in driving characteristics that solidify the Corvette’s position as the preeminent American sports car – and further the argument that it is one of the world’s best. There are also a host of exterior and interior refinements that raise the Corvette’s luxury status and enhance the feeling of craftsmanship.

“Corvette is an uncompromising sports car that rewards its owners with impeccable performance and great comfort,” said Ed Peper, Chevrolet general manager. “The changes and enhancements to the 2008 Corvette reflect continual improvements that speak to Chevrolet’s unflagging commitment to building the best sports car – and with nearly 55 years of experience, the Corvette just keeps getting better and better.”

Also back again for ’08 is the 505-horsepower Corvette Z06, an American super car that has won over enthusiasts, journalists and racers around the world for its balance of racetrack-bred performance, daily-driving civility and value.

Here’s a look at the new and enhanced features for ’08 Corvette models:

Engine – A new, 6.2L LS3 small-block V-8 is the standard engine in Coupe and Convertible models. It is rated at 430 horsepower (321 kW)* and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (586 Nm)* with the standard exhaust system; with the new, optional two-mode exhaust system, power ratings increase to 436 horses / 325 kW and 428 lb.-ft. / 592 Nm. As a result, the standard Corvette is true supercar, capable of 190 mph. The LS3 with the six-speed paddle-shift automatic is the fastest automatic-equipped Corvette ever, with 0-60 mph capability of 4.3 seconds.

This new iteration of the storied small-block family features a revised, larger-bore cylinder block – 4.06-inch / 103.25 mm vs. the previous 6.0L’s 4.00-inch / 101.62 mm bores – high-flow, LS7/L92-style cylinder heads; larger-diameter pistons; revised camshaft and camshaft timing; revised valvetrain with offset intake rocker arms; high-flow intake manifold; high-flow fuel injectors from the Z06’s LS7 engine; and a new engine beauty cover.

The LS3 features an aluminum cylinder block with cast iron cylinder liners. In addition to its larger bores, which help create a 376-cubic-inch displacement, the block casting also features revisions and machining in the bulkheads that enhance its strength and improved bay to bay breathing. But while the bore of the 6.2L engine is increased when compared with the previous 6.0L engine, the engine’s stroke remains at 3.62 inches (92 mm). The pistons for the larger 6.2L engine also are new and are designed for its high-rpm performance capability.

Breathing for the new 6.2L engine is accomplished via new, high-flow cylinder heads. They’re based on the large port/large valve design found on the LS7 engine and other GM L92 engines, with larger-capacity, straighter intake ports. The design optimizes intake flow to the combustion chamber and the exhaust ports are also designed for better flow.

Complementing the larger-port design of the heads are commensurately sized valves. The intake valve size alone increases from 2.00 inches (50.8 mm) to 2.16 inches (55 mm) – an increase of nearly 9 percent. The intake valves feature lightweight hollow stems, which enable the engine’s 6,600-rpm capability. The exhaust valves also are large, measuring 1.60 inches (40.4 mm) in diameter.

To accommodate the engine’s large valves and enable more direct intake port flow, the intake-side rocker arms are offset 6 mm between the valve tip and the push rod. Actuating the valves is a new camshaft, with intake-side lobes providing more than a 5-percent percent in increase in lift, from 0.521-inch to 0.551-inch (13.25 mm to 14 mm). Exhaust-valve lift remains unchanged from the LS2. The camshaft timing was revised to optimize performance with the higher-lift intake cam profile.

Ensuring the cylinder heads receive all the air they can handles falls to a new, acoustically tuned intake manifold. The composite design is manufactured with a “lost core” process that improves runner to runner variation and reduces airflow losses. An acoustic foam material is used to reduce radiated engine noise; it is sandwiched between the outer top of the manifold and an additional “skull cap” acoustic shell. Also new beauty covers atop the engine shield the rocker covers and also feature a noise-reducing, acoustically tuned insert to provide a more refined engine sound.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

Exhaust system – Optional on ’08 Coupe and Convertible models is a new, two-mode performance exhaust system. Similar in design and function to the system used on the Z06, the dual-mode exhaust uses vacuum-actuated outlet valves, which control engine noise during low-load operation, but open for maximum performance during high-load operation. It is not identical to the Z06 system; the Coupe/Convertible uses a 2.5-inch-diameter exhaust, while the Z06 uses a three-inch system.

With the new, dual-mode performance exhaust, power output for Coupe/Convertible rises from 430 horsepower (321 kW) and 424 lb.-ft. of torque (575 Nm) to 436 horses (325 kW) and 428 lb.-ft. (580 Nm). This system gives the Corvette a more aggressive exhaust sound character that will appeal to performance enthusiasts.

Transmissions and axle ratios – The shifting efforts for both the six-speed manual transmission and paddle-shift six-speed automatic transmissions have been improved in ’08 Corvette models. The manual transmission shifting improvements include a more positive and direct feel during gear changes, with better gate-to-gate location.

The six-speed paddle-shift automatic transmission on Coupe and Convertible is improved with new hardware and a new controller calibration that deliver quicker shifts. This change bolsters the feeling of performance and driver control when using the shifting paddles.

Also new for ’08 models is the availability of the 2.73 performance axle ratio with the automatic transmission. It is included with the Z51 package.

Steering system – The Corvette’s precise rack-and-pinion steering system is revised to provide improved feel at all speeds. The revisions are due to a new, premium machining process of the system’s internal components, a new, stiffer intermediate shaft and controller calibration changes.

Wheels – Corvette Coupe and Convertible models come with a new split-spoke wheel design for ’08. The design was introduced on the limited-edition ’07 Indianapolis 500 Pace Car replicas with a Sterling Silver finish. The standard 18-inch front wheels and 19-inch rear wheels feature a Sparkle Silver finish, with a Competition Gray version optional.

Also new is a distinctive, performance-oriented forged aluminum wheel for Coupe and Convertible. It comes in a polished finish.

Exterior colors – There are two new premium exterior colors available with 2008 Corvette models: Jetstream Blue Metallic Tintcoat and Crystal Red Metallic Tintcoat; they replace Le Mans Blue Metallic and Monterey Red Metallic Tintcoat.

Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package – Available on Coupe, Convertible and Z06 models, the new Custom Leather-Wrapped Interior Package offers a stylish, two-tone leather-appointed cabin with details that enhance the feeling of Corvette’s craftsmanship. Details include:

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

• Two-tone, leather-wrapped upper and lower instrument panel, door pads and seats
• Choice of new, exclusive colors: Linen or Sienna, with unique color breakup
• Padded door panel armrests
• “Corvette” embroidered on passenger-side dash pad
• Embroidered crossed flags logo on headrests
• Unique center trim plate with Bias pattern.

Interior enhancements – All models feature a new wrapped instrument panel center trim plate, with bright surrounds for the shifter and cupholder. There are also new metal-finish door sill plates that greet passengers as they step into the vehicle, as well as a new lighted control knob for the available Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

Feature changes and enhancements – All Corvette models now come standard with features that were previously optional or part of equipment packages. They include:

• OnStar with available Turn-By-Turn Navigation
• XM Satellite Radio
• Auto-dimming rearview mirrors (with compass)
• Audio input jack on all radio systems except navigation; Personal Audio Link is available as a dealer-installed item with the navigation system.

The ’08 Corvettes also come with a new Keyless Access fob, which features the key and remote-function controls integrated in a single unit.

Corvette design and interior details
Dramatic fender forms and exposed headlamps combine with the grille to create a strong visual identity for the Corvette, while the tapered rear deck and fascia improve high-speed performance. The lean rear design sports round taillamps and center-exit exhaust. The fixed Xenon high-intensity discharge headlamps provide superior lighting performance. With a 0.286 coefficient of drag, the Coupe models are the most aerodynamic Corvettes ever.

The 2008 Corvette Convertible features a power-operated soft top with the 3LT package; an easy-to-operate manual top is standard. Both configurations use a five-layer fabric that conceals the underlying structure for a good top-up appearance, plus it helps preserve the car’s excellent aerodynamics and reduces road noise.

Corvette’s interior is inspired by the car’s dual-cockpit heritage. High-quality materials, craftsmanship and functionality help deliver premium quality meant to enhance performance driving. The instrument panel and doors are covered with cast-skin foam-in-place trim that looks like a leather-wrapped, padded panel. It is warm and inviting and has double the life of conventional trim materials.

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

An AM/FM/XM radio with CD player and audio input jack is standard. An optional Bose audio system with an in-dash six-disc changer adds to the choices available to the audiophile owner. Steering-wheel mounted audio controls – introduced in ’07 – are included with the Bose premium system.

A full-function OnStar system is standard and an onboard navigation system with voice recognition is available. Using a 6.5-inch (165 mm) color touch-screen display, the DVD-based system contains all the map data for the 48 contiguous states and most of Canada on one disc.

Driving dynamics

2008 Corvette Coupe and 2008 Corvette Convertible have a hydroformed steel rail backbone structure, which features cored composite floors, an enclosed center tunnel, rear-mounted transmission and aluminum cockpit structure. Suspension cradles, control arms, knuckles, springs, dampers, bushings, stabilizer bars and steering gear have all been redesigned. New Goodyear Extended Mobility Tires (EMT) take advantage of the latest sidewall design and compound technology for run-flat capabilities.

Three suspension choices allow drivers to choose the setup that best suits their driving style. The standard suspension is tuned for a balance of ride comfort and precise handling. Corvette is now more poised at even higher handling levels, yet easier to drive.

The optional Magnetic Selective Ride Control suspension features magneto-rheological dampers able to detect road surfaces and adjust the damping rates to those surfaces almost instantly for optimal ride control. Cross-dilled brake rotors are included when this feature is selected, allowing customers to combine the larger brakes from the Z51 performance package with the comfort of Magnetic Selective Ride Control.

The Z51 Performance Package brings Coupe and Convertible performance very close to the widely admired previous generation Z06. The Z51 offers more aggressive dampers and springs, larger stabilizer bars, Goodyear Eagle F1 Supercar EMT tires, enhanced cooling and larger cross-drilled brake rotors (13.4 inches / 340 mm in front and 13 inches / 330 mm in rear) for optimum track performance while still providing a comfortable ride.

With each suspension, three standard dynamic chassis control systems – anti-lock braking, traction control and Active Handling – operate in concert. In all, the dynamic chassis control systems are smarter, less intrusive and more adept at making the total driving experience precisely what drivers have come to expect from their Corvette.
Corvette Z06 details

As the fastest, most powerful and most technologically advanced production model in Corvette’s history, t he Corvette Z06 offers an unprecedented level of capability and technology, making it one of the best performance values on the market.

Value-Packed Holden Epica Now On Sale

Mid size - without compromise

Holden Epica CDXi

2007-04-27 -- Holden’s new value-packed and fuel efficient mid-size sedan, Holden Epica, is now on sale – with a special money back offer for private buyers.

The Holden Epica is available in two variants (CDX and CDXi) with a choice of either a 2.0 or 2.5-litre in-line six cylinder engine, depending on model.

A five-speed manual or automatic transmission is offered depending on model, with the 2.0-litre CDX manual sedan sharply priced at $25,990 (plus dealer delivery and government charges).

Epica’s impressive fuel economy (ADR081/01) is 8.2 litres/100km for the manual variant and 9.3 litres/100km for the automatic – better than some of its four-cylinder rivals in the mid-size sedan segment.

Holden Epica also offers generous interior space, excellent standard specifications, stylish fit and finish and Euro-influenced exterior design.

The 2.0-litre engine produces peak power of 105kW and peak torque of 195Nm*. The 2.5- litre engine produces peak power of 115kW and peak torque of 237Nm*. All models meet Euro IV emission standards.

Holden is also introducing an innovative marketing push to add impact to the new vehicle’s launch. Private customers who choose to purchase another vehicle will have the option to return their vehicle within 30 days or 1500kms – whichever comes first – if they are not satisfied with their purchase. (Business fleet, government and rental buyers are excluded).

The vehicle must be in the same condition as when delivered apart from any normal wear and tear that is to be expected and must be free from any damage (including body and mechanical).

GM Holden Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, Alan Batey, said the money back offer added another incentive that gave Epica an edge in this competitive market segment.

“This offer is a unique and differentiated marketing tool to launch the new nameplate in this highly competitive mid-size sedan segment,” Mr Batey said. “We believe Epica stacks up incredibly well against the opposition for specification, value and fuel economy. Adding the money back offer into the mix will be a further attractive incentive for private customers considering this car.”

The money back offer campaign applies to new Holden Epica vehicles purchased from participating Holden dealers and delivered to private (non-fleet) customers between Apr 12, 2007 and Dec 31, 2007 . Full terms and conditions are listed below.

The Holden Epica model line up is:

* Holden Epica CDX - 2.0-litre manual transmission
* Holden Epica CDX - 2.5-litre automatic transmission
* Holden Epica CDXi - 2.5-litre automatic transmission

* Holden Epica CDX standard features include:

o – 16-inch alloy wheels (15-inch steel spare)
o – front and rear power windows
o – cruise control
o – air-conditioning
o – six-speaker CD audio system (MP3 compatible),
o – ABS
o – traction control
o – front and side airbags for driver and front passenger.

* Holden Epica CDXi models include all of the above, plus:

o – 17-inch alloy wheels (15-inch steel spare)
o – sports body kit
o – climate control air conditioning
o – curtain airbags
o – electronic driver information display
o – eight-speaker six-disc audio system (MP3 compatible)
o – front fog lamps
o – leather-wrap steering wheel and gearshift.

An optional pack featuring leather trim (two colour options) is available on CDXi.

Recommended retail price (plus dealer delivery and government charges)

* 2.0-litre Holden Epica CDX sedan (manual) $25,990
* 2.5-litre Holden Epica CDX sedan (automatic) $27,990
* 2.5-litre Holden Epica CDXi sedan (automatic) $30,990

* Optional leather trim pack (CDXi only) $ 2000
* Metallic paint $ 360
(Metallic paint cost included in CDXi pricing)

Accessories

Sports body kit (CDX)
18-inch alloy wheels – chrome
Bluetooth kit
Rear parking sensors
Roof bars
Exhaust tip (stainless steel)

* Power and torque figures as per ECE regulations
Figures quoted using 95 RON (PULP)

Holden Epica Money Back Offer – Terms and Conditions

1. This Money Back Offer Contract only applies to new Holden Epica vehicles that are purchased from participating Holden Dealers and delivered to private (non-fleet) customers between 12 th Apr 2007 and 31 st Dec 2007 (applies to all new Epica “Vehicles”).
2. Any Vehicle that a Customer wishes to return to a Dealer pursuant to this Contract must, when returned by Customer, be in the same condition as when delivered apart from any normal wear and tear that is to be expected and must be free from any damage (including body and mechanical).
3. A Vehicle returned under this Money Back Offer Contract must be returned to the dealer that originally sold the Vehicle.
4. The Customer’s ability to return a Vehicle under this Money Back Offer Contract shall expire on the earlier of 30 days from the date of delivery (inclusive of this date) of the Vehicle or when a total of 1,500 kilometres is displayed on the Vehicle’s odometer.
5. The addition of any non-factory modifications or accessories to the Vehicle at any time after delivery of the Vehicle will void the Customer’s ability to return the Vehicle under this Contract.
6. To gain any financial benefit under this Contract, the Customer must provide proof of purchase of a new (not used) motor vehicle of equal or greater value than that appearing on the original final purchase invoice for the Vehicle (“Replacement Vehicle”). The Replacement Vehicle must have been purchased within 30 days of delivery of the Vehicle. Proof of purchase of a Replacement Vehicle is defined as either an original copy of a paid purchase invoice contract or an original copy of a contract for the sale of a new motor vehicle properly signed and executed by the Customer and a new motor vehicle dealer.
7. Excepting any of the above automatic exclusions from this Money Back Offer Contract (listed in 1 –6), the Dealer agrees to accept any Vehicle covered by this Money Back Offer Contract and shall upon receipt of written approval from the third party Claims Assessor engaged to review Claims, reimburse the Customer the full value of the original final purchase price of the Vehicle. A third party will be fully responsible for assessing all Claims.
8. No liability is accepted by GM Holden Ltd or the Dealer under this Contract for any other agreement or contract that the Customer may have entered into in relation to the Vehicle, including any agreement or contract in relation to the financing of the Vehicle and any associated early termination charges.
9. The Customer’s personal details will be collected and passed to the third party Claims Assessor for the sole purpose of assessing and processing Claims under this Contract. The Dealer is not responsible for assessing the Claims under this Contract but will advise the Customer within seven (7) days of whether a claim has been accepted by the Claims Assessor.



Source: GM / Holden

Price confirmed on BMW's new M3

Want to put of the UK's first V8-powered BMW M3s in your garage? You'll have to part with at least £50,625. That's the official base price of the new 414bhp M-division coupe, as confirmed by BMW UK today; deliveries will start in September.

That price makes the new M-car £6.5k more expensive than the last M3 coupe was when it was discontinued. However, it also happens to be a piffling £50 less than you'll pay for a new Audi RS4 saloon, a fact conceived to go unnoticed by few who have to decide between the two performance cars, or indeed anyone at Audi's UK headquarters in Milton Keynes.

BMW has also confirmed a few other technical details about the new super-coupe. It will, apparently, crack 62mph in just 4.8sec and hit a limited top speed of 155mph. The surprise news comes with the fuel consumption claim; BMW says, thanks to brake energy regeneration and an enhanced double-VANOS valvetrain, the new M3 will return 22.8mpg on the combined cycle. That makes it eight per cent more frugal than the last M3, as well as a good twenty-five per cent more powerful.

source: www.autocar.co.uk

Mini Clubman: first official pictures

You've probably seen enough spy shots to have gained a good impression of what the new Mini Clubman will look like, but these are the first official images of the Mini estate to be released by BMW, and they're the most accurate guide yet as to the finished look of the car.

We dug up these profile sketches from the press material given away by Mini at the Geneva motor show in March. Judging by them, the Traveller concept's 'suicide door' has been kept, to aid entry for rear passengers. Although you can't tell from these profile sketches, it only features on the passenger side. The split boot doors are also present on these images, evident from the panel gap that vertically bisects the rear panel and the boot.

Engines and chassis parts are shared with the new Mini hatchback. This means there will be a choice of 1.4-, 1.6- and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol units, plus the new diesel Cooper engine, which should be the favourite choice in this load-lugging Mini.

The Clubman will be unveiled this September at the Frankfurt motorshow, and go on sale in early 2008.

source: autocar.co.uk

First Drive—2008 Buick Enclave

Here's a better Buick you can own right now

AT A GLANCE:
2008 BUICK ENCLAVE
ON SALE: Now
BASE PRICE: $32,790
DRIVETRAIN: 3.6-liter, 275-hp, 251-lb-ft V6; fwd, six-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT: 4780 lb
0 TO 60 MPH: 8.1 seconds
FUEL MILEAGE (EPA COMBINED): 19 mpg

Even though the all-new 2008 Buick Enclave is on sale (with $1000 incentive) and in customers' hands, General Motors hoped the media would wait until the end of May to report on it. That's when it will have the official media drives at which point it would hand out the official media information.

Rather than wait until then to give you our take on the Enclave, we did what you could do and took a test drive courtesy of a local Buick dealer. The drive impressions you read here are based on that journey.

Chalk it up to enterprising journalism. And to getting you what you have come to expect from AutoWeek: Information first and information fast.

With all the commotion coming out of the Shanghai auto show, it would be easy to forget that U.S. citizens buy Buicks, too. While the rest of the world was out examining the Riviera concept, we checked out a new Enclave at dealerships across this country right now.

Enclave is the best looking Buick to hit the streets in years. From the delightfully tight and tidy panel gaps to available 19-inch chrome rims, the Enclave looks good—and dare we say surprisingly young. Best of all, there is no trace of wretched Rendezvous anywhere: This design is virtually unchanged from the concept that wowed show goers to its dealer-lot production trim.

Looks are nice, but Enclave shines when you get behind the wheel. From our brief test we found body roll to be well controlled with little or no dive under braking. Taut handling doesn’t come at the expense of ride quality; the ride is smooth, and this cross-over responds well to steering input through the turns. Our short drive revealed greater car-to-driver feedback than other Buicks, which bodes well for it on the consumer stage.

Of course, taut handling is a relative term with a 4,780 lb curb weight. The all-wheel drive system adds an extra 205 lb and the extra mass taxes the 3.6-liter V6, requiring the use of all 275 hp and 251 lb-ft when times comes to pass. Sluggish downshifts, likely engineered to maximize fuel economy, contribute to its somewhat lazy acceleration.

We found the best way to hustle through traffic is to manually select gears from the six-speed automatic via +/- buttons on the shifter. You still won’t get the spirited response of a Mazda CX-7 (and its 3929 lb curb weight), but you’ll have the option of bringing seven friends along, something you can’t do in the Mazda. At the concept’s introduction, Buick said it would have a V8 engine as option, but we haven’t heard much about it since.

Seating for eight doesn’t mean Enclave will need a trailer to haul luggage when all spots are filled (though you could tow a maximum of 4,500 lbs, if you were so inclined). With 18.9 cubic feet of cargo space available behind the third row, you can bring plenty of gear for the ride; folding all seats net 116.2 cubic feet of storage. Other crossovers in this segment top at around 85 cubic feet of storage, so this is a clear winner. Haul lots of people, piles of stuff, or some combination; you won’t leave much behind.

Of these handsome General Motors sport utes—Saturn Outlook/GMC Acadia/Buick Enclave (a Chevy is yet to come)—to hit lots, many will choose the Enclave as the best-looking model out there. Now that’s high praise… for any automaker, but especially Buick. Throw in a quiet interior and world-class ride should give those shopping Japanese crossovers a real reason to think Buick. Oh, and comparable Enclaves will run several thousand dollars less than the competition from Lexus.

It does not take long behind the wheel to realize the (last generation) Lexus RX was the Buick engineers’ target for interior noise levels. When cars blow past at highway speeds and only a whisper transmits to the cabin, you know they’ve done their job well. With the radio on, exterior noise virtually disappears. Check the Bose 5.1-channel audio upgrade box and prepare to experience music. Laminated window glass, triple seals around the doors and plenty of sound-deadening materials are some of the so-called QuietTuning features that isolate noise and vibration at speed.

Cloth seats in the CX model are of a higher quality than those found in a Saturn Outlook that we recently sampled. Leather seats come standard in CXL models. Rear-seat entertainment systems are available in all Enclaves and include wireless headphones. A rear-view camera is included with the navigation system upgrade.


By PHIL FLORADAY
autoweek

The launch of a special edition Car

With the launch of a special edition car, thousands of people showed up simply to see what was under the curtain. There were also many contests going on, like the Noise Pollution - A sound and style competition. This was a knock-down, drag-out battle to see whose audio system reigned supreme. A similar contest was held for the best Enviro-Zone - A green car.

The launch of a special edition Car

With the launch of a special edition car, thousands of people showed up simply to see what was under the curtain. There were also many contests going on, like the Noise Pollution - A sound and style competition. This was a knock-down, drag-out battle to see whose audio system reigned supreme. A similar contest was held for the best Enviro-Zone - A green car.

2007 Shanghai Auto Show

Chery A6CC Concept
Geely KingKong 2
Huanghai NCV
Roewe W2
GreatWall i7
Great Wall GW413EF
GreatWall Cowry MPV
Soar Automotive 1
Chery Shooting Sport
Hafei HF8 MPV
Brilliance Jinjue FRV
Chery Tiggo 6
BYD F3-R
Chang'an CV8 Concept
Shuanghuan CEO SUV
Shuanghuan Little Noble
Geely Vision 2
FAW Weizi
JAC C926
Haima H11

Haima Auto 3
Huanghai CUV
BYD F6
BYD F8

source: automen