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,

Lexus 2012 models to raise benchmark on luxury offerings in the UAE

Al-Futtaim Motors, exclusive distributors of Lexus in the UAE, has announced the arrival of the much anticipated 2012 models which are expected to raise the benchmark for luxury automobile offerings in the UAE.

Focusing on engaging the senses of its customers and appealing to a young and new generation, Lexus’s new 2012 model range demonstrates the brand’s shift from its traditional attributes of luxurious refinement to a real focus on sharper style and emotional appeal.

Saud Abbasi, General Manager Al-Futtaim Motors-Lexus, said, “These are exciting times for Lexus. The arrival of the model year 2012 range is expected to garner positive responses from new as well as existing customers in the UAE. The strength of Lexus lies in the way leading edge technology and finesse have been matched together to make the driving experience as captivating as possible, and our customers appreciate that”.

He added, “We are highly optimistic about the demand these cars will generate in the coming months. In addition to presenting this exciting new line-up, we will be unveiling new much-awaited models later this year.”

The MY12 models which will be available in the UAE in October include the CT, IS, LS, RX, GX and ES.

The 2012 Lexus models are inspired by the L-finesse philosophy and certain models even get the muscular edge with the optional sports package. The IS 250 and the IS 300 models receive an optional sportier appearance package while the GX 460 transitions into 2012 with many enhanced sport front and rear appearance features.

Another big change for this year’s model line-up is the new colour palate. All IS sedan models, the hybrid models and the ES 350 will get Mercury Gray as a new exterior colour option replacing the Dark Gray. The ES 350 gets its own Starlight Black replacing the Deep Peridot while the IS exclusively gets Fire Agate replacing the Bluish Pearl as an exterior colour. The Orange/Black combination seating and interior theme is also replaced by an all-new Red and Black two-tone leather trim in the ISF.

The CT 200h features new leather seat options and Bluetooth connectivity while the new GX and ES come with new day running lamps. The GX features a new high gloss finish on the wheels

The Prestige and Platinum models of RX are equipped with panoramic roof, creating extra light and airy feel, extending styling image of RX.

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