Audi Q 3

he Audi Q3 (internally designated Typ 8U), is a five-door compact coupe crossover by Audi that debuted commercially in 2011. The car uses the Volkswagen Group A5 (PQ35) platform of the Volkswagen Golf Mk5, the same as the Volkswagen Tiguan/SEAT Tribu small SUVs. The Q3 slots above the proposed Audi Q1 mini crossover. Compared to the mid-luxury compact Q5 and full-size Q7 which are positioned more for family practicality and off-road performance, the Q3 is aimed as more of a lifestyle/sports automobile. It was launched in the same model year as the BMW X1, a similar competitor.

Mini Coupe 2012

With so many similarities to the hatchback, why stop now. Under the hood are three engine options, all of which are identical to the rest of the MINI lineup. A bit disappointing perhaps, but if Volkswagen can use its 2.0T motor in everything, then who’s to fault MINI for making full use of its 1.6?

In the base Copper model look for 121-hp and 114 lb-ft of torque delivering a 0-60 time of 8.5 seconds. Turbocharged Cooper S models make 181-hp and 177 lb-ft (192 with an overboost function) to deliver a 6.5 second time. And finally, the top-dog John Cooper Works model ups the power further to 208-hp and 192 lb-ft (207 in overboost), making it the fastest accelerating MINI ever with a 6.1 second 0-60 time. When compared to the hatch, these times are roughly a tenth or two quicker, adding a smidge more performance to back up the xy-chromosome styling.

MINI cleverly kept us away from the base Cooper model with what is sure to be underwhelming performance, although MINIs do have a tendency to feel faster than they are and even a base hard top model can deliver its share of thrills. Instead we tested both the Cooper S and JCW models – the latter looking particularly impressive with its custom 17-inch wheels and aero kit.

Dubai International Motor show 2011 BMW pictures

Dubai International Motor show 2011 Pictures

Dubai International Motor Show 2011 Photos

AL TAYER MOTORS SHOWCASES FERRARI 458 SPIDER AT THE DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW

Al Tayer Motors, one of the UAE’s premier automobile dealerships and exclusive Ferrari importer-dealer, is showcasing the Ferrari 458 Spider at the Dubai International Motor Show.

Ferrari’s exciting new 8-cylinder convertible, the 458 Spider, shares the spotlight with the Ferrari FF and an exclusive customised Ferrari California that epitomises the new Tailor-Made programme announced by Ferrari.

458 Spider

The latest addition to the Ferrari range is a mid-rear-engined two-seater featuring a fully retractable aluminium hard-top, a world first for a sports car with this layout.

The 458 Spider’s innovative new hard-top is not only 25 kg lighter than a traditional folding soft-top, but is also quieter and thermally more efficient when raised. Aside from taking just 14 seconds to open or close, the hard-top was engineered to occupy a very small space when stored so that the designers were able to include a generous rear bench for luggage behind the two seats.

The rear windscreen doubles as an effective wind-stop which is electrically adjustable. When the hard-top is folded away the wind-stop opens to the height that guarantees the most efficient aerodynamics, reducing buffeting in the cockpit.

The 458 Spider is powered by Ferrari’s 570 CV 4,499 cc V8 which was named International Engine of the Year 2011. This is coupled with Ferrari’s class-leading dual-clutch F1 paddle-shift transmission which delivers 0 to 100 km/h acceleration in under 3.4 seconds and a maximum speed of 320 km/h.

The all-aluminium chassis incorporates new alloys and castings, also adopted on the coupé, which ensure the 458 Spider already conforms to 2020 safety legislations.

Its category-topping performance aside, the new car also boasts class-leading fuel consumption and emissions levels. Thanks to the HELE (High Emotion Low Emission) system, in fact, fuel consumption on the combined urban cycle stands at 11.8 l/100 km with CO2 emissions of 275 g/km.

Tailor-Made Programme

Ferrari stand also has an area dedicated to the Tailor-Made Programme, which enables owners to reach an even more personal level of distinctiveness with the specification of their cars.

The Tailor-Made Programme provides clients with an extensive range of exclusive cloth trim, colours, finishes and technical materials for a final specification inspired by unique classic Ferraris and by motor racing. The selection is available in three innovative collections - Classica, Scuderia and Inedita – specifically conceived by Ferrari’s Styling centre.

In creating a truly bespoke car clients will be assisted by their own Personal Designer throughout the decision-making process, right up until delivery. The Carrozzeria Scaglietti programme continues the range of personalisation options open to clients.

The Ferrari range at the Dubai International Motor Show

Lining up alongside the 458 Spider is the Ferrari FF. This V12 melds to an unprecedented level an extremely sporty, high-performance character with incredible versatility, superb comfort and sophisticated elegance, guaranteeing both driver and passengers an absolutely unique driving experience.

Also being showcased on the Ferrari stand is a specially customised Ferrari California, the mid-front-engined V8 GT that combines performance, versatility and driving pleasure. 

Hyundai brings ‘New Possibilities’ to Dubai International Motor Show

United Arab Emirates, 10^thof November 2011- Juma Al Majid Est. – the sole distributor of Hyundai Motor in the UAE – brings the brightest and the best of Hyundai to Dubai International Motor Show (DIMS) from 10-14 November 2011 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Stealing the spotlight this year will be the modern premium concept - Veloster and the Genesis Prada – the essence of special edition luxury.

Senior Executive V. P. of Hyundai, Seung Tack Kim, commented, “At this year’s Dubai Motor Show, it gives us great pleasure to unveil the latest additions to Hyundai’s diverse lineup , each being a great example of the “New Thinking, New Possibilities.” Each innovation is making very clear that Hyundai is now an innovator in the automotive industry, because we don’t follow tradition, we make our own.”

The region’s most exciting platform for powerful motoring marques, Hyundai will join the world’s key automobile players at DIMS to unveil its latest creations that have captured the very soul of modern innovation.

KhaledIssa, COO of Juma Al Majid Group, said, “It is the very insignia of Hyundai that captures the core of what will be on display this year. New thinking and new possibilities are what have inspired the engineering feats that we are witnessing in the new models this year – from the Genesis Prada to the Veloster - making luxury a consumer right.”

Teaming up with Prada to release a special edition luxury sedan to the segment; the Genesis Prada combine’s the sophistication of the Italian fashion house, with its attention to detail and insurmountable quality, with Hyundai’s advanced technology and expertise to provide the truly unique model. Featuring the award-winning Tau 5.0 GDi engine, the vehicle delivers peak power of 430ps and a maximum toque of 52.0kgm, mated with an eight-speed transmission. Coming in three special edition colours: Black Nero, Blue Baltico and Brown Moro, the award-winning car – including 2009 North American Car of the Year – features Prada’s signature top quality ‘saffiano’ leather with a sophisticated finish. Riding on 19-inch alloy wheels, offset by dark chrome trim, the roof features a shark-fin antenna and is marked with GP500 emblem that highlights the exclusivity of the car.

Eclectic and attractive, Veloster is the compact sports car making efficiency and high power a reality. With its aggressive and completely modern design, the functional 3-door vehicle is not only beautiful on the outside, but inside as well, packed with the best-in-class accents and features. Shifting gears on 6-speed ecoshift dual clutch transmission, with paddle shifters for smooth and effective power, the vehicle runs on 1.6L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) Engine – both strong and efficient - generating 138 horsepower and delivering up to 40 Hwy MPG, which means better fuel economy for its owners. Veloster is the sports car dream for the real world.

“Hyundai is definitely showing off with the Genesis Prada and the Veloster, and it has every right to do so. The engineering capabilities and the ground-breaking revelations, which the brand has uncovered on its journey to go beyond what is possible, have inspired the genius’ at Hyundai to really go above and beyond this time. We are absolutely certain that our customers will stand and take note,” said Issa.

Customers will also be moved like never before with the new 2012 Azera from Hyundai. It has it all: style, luxury, comfort, performance and above all safety. Alongside the Azera and the limited edition models being presented this year, Hyundai continues to develop all segments with its dynamic ‘fluid sculpture’ designs and unrivalled power train package in the Sonata, Elantra and Accent.

“Hyundai’s model mix gives customers a chance to drive smart sophisticated vehicles that are redefining the meaning of attainable luxury,” concluded Issa

H.H. SHEIKH MAKTOUM BIN MOHAMMED BIN RASHID AL MAKTOUM OPENS DUBAI INTERNATIONAL MOTOR SHOW 2011

The 2011 Dubai International Motor Show, the largest event in the show’s 22 year history, was officially opened today by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai. More than 150 of the world’s top motoring manufacturers are showcasing a record number of global and regional launches at the Motor Show along with some of the most exciting and innovative concept cars in the world.

“We are honoured to have H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum officially open the show today. The strength of this year’s show is confirmation of the importance of this region to the automotive world, and we are delighted to have received such an excellent response from our exhibitors and partners, many of whom have been part of the Dubai International Motor Show since its first edition,” said Helal Saeed Almarri, CEO, Dubai World Trade Centre.

Visitors to this year’s show will be among the first in the world to see the latest models from high profile exhibitors including Brabus, Chevrolet, De Macross, Jaguar, Land Rover and first-time exhibitor Lifan.

Following today’s launch of two Bespoke Phantom Family models and the new Ghost Extended Wheelbase model, Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, said: “The Gulf is an important market for Rolls-Royce, with all of our models enjoying robust sales across the board.  The region currently holds the number one position in the world for Rolls-Royce Bespoke models and has done so for the past two years, reflecting the sophisticated, highly discerning customers Rolls-Royce attracts. The Dubai International Motor Show is a highly influential platform for us to showcase our models to our key target audience in the region.”

Celebrating a landmark anniversary at the show this year, Frank Bernthaler, Director of Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Daimler Middle East and Levant said: “Mercedes-Benz is delighted to celebrate its 125th Anniversary at the Dubai International Motor Show this year, where we revealed our powerful and sophisticated new M-Class SUV, the convertible version of AMG’s flagship SLS AMG Coupe, the new SLS AMG Roadster and the most powerful SLK we’ve ever built, the new SLK 55 AMG.  These brand new vehicles lined up alongside the first Mercedes-Benz, the Number 1 Patentwagen, that Carl Benz built back in 1886.”

Following the Middle East debut of the pioneering BMW Vision ConnectedDrive concept car, Dr. Joerg Breuer, Managing Director of BMW Group Middle East said: "BMW Group is looking forward to celebrating and building upon the successes achieved so far this year, throughout the show. With the Middle East debut of the innovative Vision ConnectedDrive model and the highly anticipated BMW M5, as well as a few limited edition models, we have a lot to be excited about. 2011 has been a great year so far for the group and we are looking forward to ending the year and moving in to 2012, on a high."

With a line up including its latest models and regional launch of the Audi Q3, Audi’s stand has been abuzz with action. Jeff Mannering, Managing Director, Audi Middle East said: “The Middle East markets and the UAE in particular are very important for Audi. For the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show we are therefore presenting all our latest models as well as the Audi Quattro concept as a special highlight.”

The opening day of the show also saw a guest appearance from Formula One driver Mark Webber from Red Bull-Renault, who visited the show ahead of the penultimate F1 race of the season.

Adding extra flair to the show floor are a number of concept cars, including models from Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, GMC, Maserati, MINI and Toyota, while some of the pulse-racing models due to make an appearance at this year's show include the new Bugatti Grand Veyron Sport – the fastest convertible in the world, the new Porsche 911 Carrera, the Maybach 62 and the Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4.

In addition to the 500 plus vehicles on display, there are also interactive features for visitors, including the Nissan Live Action Track, the Driving Dynamics Racetrack sponsored by Audi and Wheels, the MINI Test Driving Arena, and the Infiniti Fastest Tyre Change Contest on a replica F1 racing car.

Lead sponsors of this year’s Dubai International Motor Show include Victory/Polaris as Gold Sponsor, Continental Tires as Official Tyre Sponsor and ENOC / EPPCO as Strategic Partner,

Luxury car manufacturers showcase dazzling models at this year’s Dubai International Motor Show.

 With the Middle East predicted to witness unprecedented growth within the luxury car segment over the next five years, luxury car manufacturers are set to showcase their most dazzling models at this year’s Dubai International Motor Show.

The world’s premium marques join a full list of international exhibitors preparing to unveil their latest models, concept cars and technological innovations during the five day event running from 10–14 November 2011 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

According to IHS Automotive,  figures released by the leading luxury car manufacturers indicate that sales of luxury cars in the Middle East are expected to increase by 20% this year - the highest level ever and more than double the 9.7 percent growth that the Middle East luxury segment experienced last year.  It is also predicted that, if the pattern continues, the Middle East luxury car segment will double over the period 2010-2015 positioning the region as a global leader within this lucrative market.

“We are delighted that so many key names within the luxury car market choose the Dubai International Motor Show as their preferred event to exhibit and launch new models to the region and globally” said Trixee Loh, Senior Vice President of Dubai World Trade Centre, the organiser of The Dubai International Motor Show “The fact that the show is a must attend event for leading premium brands is testament to its success at reaching their target customers within the luxury segment”

To mark the 100th year anniversary of the Spirit of Ecstasy  -the iconic Flying Lady mascot - Rolls Royce Motor Cars is demonstrating the importance of the Middle East by showcasing two highly bespoke phantom models, as well as a yet to be revealed exclusive showpiece  that promises to dazzle crowds.

James Crichton, Regional Director at Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Middle East and Africa, comments “This has been a tremendously successful year for Rolls-Royce with sales achieving almost 65% market share of the ultra-luxury (over $250,000) car segment until the end of August. We have defined the growth in this segment and the continuous demand for our highly Bespoke Phantom and Ghost models is testament to the increasing demand in the market for ultra-luxury goods. The Middle East region continues to be an important driver in the global growth of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars and last year contributed to over 15% of our global sales. With the Middle East being one of our core markets, the participation in the Dubai Motor Show is unquestioned and we look forward to celebrating the 100 year anniversary of The Spirit of Ecstasy at the event.”

Ultra-luxury car manufacturer, Bentley, has also enjoyed ongoing success this year, having witnessed a 31% increase in Bentley’s global sales on the same period last year, with overall sales expected to grow around 40% with the imminent arrival of the new Continental GTC.  This year’s show is set to be a seminal event for Bentley, with a number of models scheduled for regional debuts in the manufacturer’s strongest performing market in the region. 

Chris Buxton, Regional Director, Bentley Middle East, Africa and India said “The Dubai Motor Show grows in size and importance each year. At this year’s show, Bentley will show the new Continental GTC for the first time in the region, alongside the new Continental GT. We will also have our flagship, the Bentley Mulsanne on the stand, which is the epitome of British luxury motoring together with a very special Series 51 Continental Flying Spur”.

With the top end BMW 7 Series, X6, X5 and 5 Series consistently amongst its bestsellers, sales for BMW this year continue to grow.  The UAE remains the biggest market in the region for the leading luxury car manufacturer, making the Dubai International Motor Show an important showcase for its premium models.

"Together with our local importer, AGMC, we will display 16 BMW and MINI models at this year's Dubai International Motor Show.  It's a fantastic, well organised show attended by thousands of people so it presents a great platform for us to showcase some of our latest models and technology features.  We are looking forward to our participation and the excitement of the motor show which will add further interest to the popularity and excellent sales of our brands," said Joerg Breuer, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

The Middle East maintains its position as the most successful market for Mercedes-Benz’s ultra-luxury Maybach marque, with its extensive bespoke service attracting the discerning customers in the region looking for luxury at the highest level.   

"As the leading automotive exhibition in the Middle East, the Dubai International Motor Show 2011 provides the ideal opportunity for Mercedes-Benz to showcase it latest products. As we celebrate 125 years since the invention of the automobile, this year's show is the most important for us to date. With over 50 years experience in delivering our promise of ‘The Best or Nothing’ in the region, the Dubai International Motor Show 2011 marks a major milestone for Mercedes-Benz, and we plan to make a splash with some exciting new models," said Frank Bernthaler, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East and Levant.

Exhibitors joining Bentley, Rolls Royce, Mercedes-Benz and BMW this year include Audi, Aston Martin, Bugatti, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Chrysler, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, GM, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Kia, Koenigsegg, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Lexus, Maserati, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche, Peugeot, Renault, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo.

The Dubai International Motor Show will be held from 10–14 November 2011 at Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The show is open from 5pm–10pm on Thursday 10 November, 3pm–10pm on Friday 11 November and 11am–10pm on 12, 13, 14 November. Ticket prices are AED 50. For more information visit http://www.dubaimotorshow.com/