AW Rostamani Trading Co. LLC launches 3 new MG models during Dubai International Motor Show – 2011

·   MG 350 – 1.5L Engine (Four door sedan)

·   MG 6 – 1.8Turbo (Saloon and Fast-back body styles)

·   MG 3 – 1.3L & 1.5L (Hatchback)

Dubai, November 10^th 2011 - AW Rostamani Trading, part of the AW Rostamani Group, today added 3 new exciting models to its famous MG brand line up at the 2011 Dubai International Motor Show.

Morris Garages, better known as MG, and one of the world’s most famous car brands has been a pioneer in the British automotive industry since 1924.  Over the years MG cars, signified by excellent engineering and British quality, has been recognized through numerous accolades.  MG was re-launched in 2008 by Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC), the number one automotive manufacturer by sales in China.  With 3.48 million vehicles sales in 2010, SAIC is now the 8^th largest automotive manufacturer globally.  SAIC has state-of-art MG manufacturing plants and R&D centers located at Shanghai and Nanjing in China, and Birmingham in UK.

Speaking from the MG stand, Michel Ayat – CEO AWR Automotives, commented: “Today we are adding a further three models to the MG range to complete a truly exciting product line for this famous British car brand which enjoys such an incredible heritage. Truly we can say our journey with the MG brand starts today, and thanks to the excellent quality assurance from SAIC and the local sales and service guaranteed by AW Rostamani our strategy is to steadily build a loyal following for MG in the UAE.”

The MG 350 is an exquisitely elegant car with classical design, punchy performance of 1.5-litre (107hp) VCT engines powering the front wheels via a 4-speed auto transmission.   MG 350 comes with highly efficient dynamics, confident handling, a spacious interior and multiple safety options which set a benchmark for this new era of MG. AW Rostamani Trading will sell the new MG 350 in the UAE starting from AED 49,500 in November 2011.

The MG 6 is available in either a Fast-Back or Saloon body styles with standout British styling and plenty of glamour to provide an outstanding mix of performance and control, creating a whole new set of standards for medium-sized cars. The MG 6 comes with a 1.8-litre Turbo (158hp) engine and a 5-speed ‘Tiptronic’ auto transmission which includes sporty F2-style paddle shifters.   Other luxury standard features include a CD player, fog lamps and cruise control. AW Rostamani Trading will sell the new MG 6 in the UAE starting from AED 71,500 in November 2011.

Finally, the new MG 3 is a British super-mini hatchback with 80 years of history and constant innovation behind it.   The MG 3 comes with excellent maneuverability and an easy driving style. It will be available in two grade levels with a choice of either a 1.3-litre (87hp) or 1.5-litre (106hp) engine mated to a 5-speed auto transmission with Tiptronic functionality.    Standard features include USB and ‘AUX-in’ audio connectivity and driver and passenger airbags. AW Rostamani Trading will sell the new MG 3 in the UAE starting from AED 43,500 in November 2011.

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale

The most extreme Gallardo ever
With the Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale, Automobili Lamborghini is bringing motor racing excitement directly to the road. This new and most extreme top model in the Gallardo lineup is based on the successful race car from the Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo, the world’s fastest single-make series. 
The car will be produced in a limited run of 150 numbered units.

The Lamborghini Blancpain Super Trofeo championship brings professional racers and gentlemen drivers face-to-face in fiercely fought battles on Europe’s most challenging racetracks such as Monza, Silverstone and Hockenheim. There are many similarities between the racing and road versions of this super sports car. For example, they both share the same V10 powerplant, which is used in the racing version with no modifications.

An enormous and manually variable rear spoiler for increased dynamic load
Right from first glance, these similarities are even more evident in the new Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale.  In fact, it is equipped with the same rear spoiler that offers greater aerodynamic load – reaching in the best aerodynamic condition 3 times the load of the Gallardo LP 560-4 – for increased dynamic stability during tight, high-speed driving. As in the race cars, the rear spoiler can be varied manually in order to let the driver optimize the car’s performance according to the track or road characteristics.
Another element taken directly from the racing version is the removable engine hood with quick-release system. Both the spoiler and the hood are of course made of carbon composite material, as are a host of other components on the SuperTrofeo Stradale. Together with aluminum, carbon fiber is the basis behind the extremely lightweight construction of Gallardo
Lightweight construction through consistent use of carbon fiber
The Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale boasts a maximum dry weight of 1340 kilograms.  It beats the already lean Gallardo LP 560-4 by 70 kilograms, which gives the Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale a stunning power-to-weight ratio of 2.35 kilograms per HP for breathtaking performance. It sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 3.4 seconds and reaches 200 km/h just 10.4 seconds later.  Its forward thrust finally tops out at 320 Km/h.

“Rosso Mars” stands for Italy’s racing tradition
The Gallardo Super Trofeo Stradale sports a brand new “Rosso Mars” finish that underscores the special connection between ultimate race track performance and Lamborghini’s “Italianness”.  The “Rosso Mars” color  symbolizes Italy’s traditional racing red, as established at the beginning of last century in motor racing, when the home nations of the competitors were indicated by the color of the paint on the vehicles.  Dark green stood for Great Britain, blue was for France, white (and silver later on) represented Germany, white and blu stripes for USA, and red was the color of all race cars from Italy.

Public debut for new 2012 Honda Pilot at Dubai Motor show

The new 2012 Honda Pilot made its public debut yesterday at the Dubai International Motor Show. With a new styling for front facia and refined instrument panel, the 8-seater SUV receives significant improvements in exterior and interior styling.

For the 2012 model other significant improvements include the introduction of top-of-the-line Touring grade and includes new features like HDD navigation system, DVD rear entertainment system, intelligent MID (i-MID), wide mode rear view camera, Bluetooth hands free phone and Bluetooth Audio Streaming, 18” alloy wheels and many more.

The 2012 Honda Pilot is available in 4 grades in the UAE: EX (AED 129,999/-), EX-C (AED 139,999/-), EX-D (AED 144,999/-) and Touring (AED 164,999/-).

Al-Futtaim Honda is the exclusive distributor for Honda vehicles, motorcycles, marine engines, power products and parts in the UAE.

REFINED EXTERIOR & INTERIOR STYLING

The front fascia with three bar chrome grille imparts stronger yet refined appearance. The large multi-reflector halogen headlights and front fog lights also contribute to Pilot’s bolder character. The front air dams and air deflectors reduce turbulence and enhance fuel economy while adding a touch of style.

The Touring grade includes 6-spoke 18-inch aluminum wheel with a striking design and the EX grade is equipped with 5-spoke, 17-inch aluminum wheel.

Interior styling is simplified with the AC selector knob now easier to use. Speedometer and tachometer gauges are sharper and easy to read with new, large clear digits and brilliant white background lighting at night. Redesigned center stack features a U-shaped character line that breaks the flat look. The varying textures on the dashboard surface create layers that are easily distinguishable with touch and sight.

BODY DESIGN

The 2012 Honda Pilot uses 52% of high strength steel (HSS) for more rigidity and better fuel efficiency. In addition, it incorporates underbody features like front and rear strakes, rear mudguards and optimized splash shield for improved aerodynamic and under body cooling.

Pilot’s excellent ride handling and comfort for all occupants are achieved due to high performance suspension geometry with hydraulic bushings, large tires, large front and rear brake package, active control mounts and high flow dual exhausts reduced road vibration and improved stability under all driving conditions.

The Noise, Vibration, Harshness (NVH) levels are improved in 2012 Honda Pilot by improving the body seam sealing around the unit-body connection points and retuned rear suspension sub-frame mounts. Furthermore, the acoustic windshield glass and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) technology cancels booming noise by emitting identical out of phase sound from audio speakers ensuring lower NVH levels under all conditions.

POWERTRAIN

The 2012 Pilot is equipped with 3.5 – liter i-VTEC V6 engine with VCM technology to ensure optimal balance of power and fuel efficiency. The maximum (NET) power and torque output (NET) is 257 PS @ 5,700 rpm and 35.4 kg-m @ 4,800 rpm – respectively.

The Pilot engine is mated to a 5-speed automatic transmission system that has Grade Logic Control to maintain the appropriate gear thus preventing gear “hunting” while uphill or downhill drive. The VTM-4 system on Pilot delivers seamless 4-wheel-drive when needed. The VTM-4 system also provides a "lock mode" (available when in first or second gears up to 28 kmph) which is activated by a button on the instrument panel. In “lock model” the VTM-4 delivers maximum possible torque transfer to the rear wheels which aids extraction from extremely low traction or stuck conditions.

SAFETY

The principal safety feature used on all Honda models is the Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure for enhanced frontal collision energy management and vehicle-to-vehicle frontal crash compatibility.

Standard on all grades, the passive safety features include dual-stage front airbags, side airbags, 3-row/ full length side curtain airbags and front active head restraints. The side curtain airbag system includes three satellite sensors and a main unit, and detects a crash within 5-7 milliseconds. It also includes a rollover sensor which deploys the airbags if there is a risk of vehicle overturning.

Another important feature is the LATCH system with 4 locations in securing child seats. This gives flexibility to both parents and children to choose their seats.

Available as standard, the active safety features include Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), 4-channel anti-lock braking system (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA) and Hill Start Assist (HSA). The HSA maintain brake pressure momentarily longer and prevent roll-back as the driver moves from the brake to accelerator pedal during a hill start.

NEW ADVANCED FEATURES

Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System

Available on Touring grade, the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System features an 8-inch, high-resolution QVGA color display and uses GPS technology to provide guidance to destinations. It comes with 60GB HDD memory system (includes 15GB allocated for user media) with voice guidance both in Arabic and English languages.

Honda DVD Rear Entertainment System

Available on Touring grade, DVD Rear Entertainment System with 9-inch display allows the video or audio to be played either on wireless headphones or front speakers for all occupants’ enjoyment. The screen flips down from the second row roof at one push button.

Audio System

The 2012 Honda Pilot Touring grade includes a premium audio system with 10 speakers and Bluetooth Audio Streaming (with selected phones only). The premium audio system includes 1 CD player and a 15GB audio hard disk drive memory. The EX grades audio system includes a new 2GB CD Library (CD-L) function with 1 CD player (it replaces the previous 6 CD changer). USB and AUX jacks are standard on both grades.

Bluetooth- Hands Free Telephone (HFT)

Available on Touring grade, this essential communication tool allows the driver to use his Bluetooth-enabled mobile phone while driving without taking his/her eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel.

i-MID (Intelligent Multi-information Display)

The i-MID feature is available as standard on 2012 Honda Pilot. Through a conveniently located steering wheel control, the i-MID displays important information such as instantaneous fuel consumption, average fuel consumption, range, Bluetooth HFT phonebook, caller ID, audio song/album/artist details, radio station frequency, outside temperature, etc. Another fun option is the personalized wallpaper display photo uploading. On the Touring grade, it also displays images from the wide mode rear view camera and HDD navigation system map.

Rear View Camera

Available on Touring grade, the wide-view rear camera captures real time parking situation and displays it on navigation system’s 8” TFT screen. The wide-view options of rear view camera allows to view for approaching vehicles from the side, normal view for bumper line and top view for best distance perception.

BODY & INTERIOR COLORS

·         Taffeta White with beige interior

·         Alabaster Silver Metallic with beige interior

·         Crystal Black Pearl with beige interior

·         Dark Amber Metallic with beige interior

·         Dark Cherry Pearl with beige interior

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/  

Hot Rod Fuller Smashes Two Personal Bests in the Yas Marina Circuit

In the third and fourth qualifying rounds of the Uni-Select Auto Plus NHRA Nationals in Reading, Pennsylvania over the weekend, Hot Rod Fuller, in the Yas Marina Circuit Top Fuel Dragster ran the fastest time of his career to date.  Rod came in under the esteemed 3.8 second Elapsed Time (ET) mark, with an ET of 3.785 seconds. 

Rod also broke his highest speed record, for the second time this season.  Set just weeks ago in Minnesota, Fuller reached a speed of 325mph, beating his previous best by nearly 3mph.   

These efforts positioned the Yas Marina Circuit Top Fuel Drag Team in a respectable fifth place leading into the eliminations, only to smoke the tyres and be knocked out in the first round.

“We made our career quickest and fastest pass, which says a lot for this team. I’m so proud of all of the Yas Marina Circuit guys, especially with how well we’ve done these last couple of races. We struggled on race day, but we really moved up and we’re running with the top guys after only 8 races all season. You know, that’s nothing to hang our heads about,” commented Hot Rod Fuller.

“Getting above the 320mph barrier again, just goes to show that we have the speed; we just need to get everything to line up now.  It’s frustrating that we haven’t won, but we know we have a car that can win,” he continued.

The team has only two races left in the ten race season, with Rod having previously performed well at both tracks.   The next race will take place in Phoenix, Arizona from 14-16 October, followed by the final meet in Las Vegas at the end of October.