Monthly Archives: November 2006

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander ZG Product Concept

By Alborz Fallah | November 24th, 2006

Mitsubishi has done well, they have released so much information regarding the new Outlander that they have put other car companies to shame when it comes to product launch information. Of all the information released, there were a few pieces that I thought were interesting. The product concept for the new 2007 ZG Outlander caught my eye!

Mitsubishi says that the new ZG Outlander has been developed to embody the “New generation recreational vehicle“, which is delivered through:

Freedom – A vehicle that can be used for any time, any way, any purpose
Fun – Power, driving pleasure
Function – Surprising, delightful useability and features in the packaging.

The major features that distinguish the new Outlander are:

Fuel saving technology delivered through new fuel efficient alloy 2.4 and 3.0 V6 MIVEC engines, Active Select 4WD, CVT transmission, and light weight body
An original and distinctively stylish sporty exterior and interior
Upgraded body size delivering increased interior space, cargo capacity, and an allowance for a third row “occasional use” seat
High levels of specification, including 18″ wheels, Smart Key and Rockford Fosgate premium audio
Advanced safety features.

Outlander’s distinguishing features include a new-generation platform which underpins better crashworthiness and greater rigidity, a high power and highly fuel efficient aluminium cylinder block 2.4-litre MIVEC engine, a ‘Sports Mode’ 6-speed CVT as well as a traditional 6-speed ‘Sports Mode’ automatic transmission, and Active Select 4WD – an electronically controlled 4WD system. The new model also uses an aluminium roof panel, mono-tube rear shock absorbers, and other advanced technology proven on Lancer Evolution – Mitsubishi Motors’ iconic sport sedan – to surpass traditional off-road SUVs, and deliver superior on-road performance. Outlander also features major improvements in interior comfort and utility for convenience, including a 7-seat model with underfloor-stowed occasional-use seats for two extra passengers.

Exterior

In developing Outlander’s styling, Mitsubishi’s development team were searching for a design that would do away with meaningless devices: a gimmick-free design that would age gracefully, tailored for the discerning owner and one he/she would never tire of, however we all know such a design is impossible, but Mitsubishi tried really hard.

Clearly inspired by the 2002 Pajero Evo 2+2 concept up to the A-pillars and windshield, ZG Outlander’s front design blends into the muscular fenders with flared wheelarches and sharp lines, leaving no doubt about its dynamic abilities.

Its exterior creates the sense of adventure of a larger SUV, while the smoothly styled lines give an air of a slightly raised mid-sized sporty wagon. The integration of the two styles offers customers a recognisably sporty look, while being practical and stylish in both rural and urban settings.

The following design elements abound:

the curvature and shape of the windshield
the flow of the front fenders
the rounded bulging wheel arches
the v-shape of the headlamps
the “Mount Fuji” grille
the tapered rear roof line
the kick-up shape of the rear quarter light

The purposeful design sits on a rock-firm stance generated by the wide tracks and large diameter 18-inch wheels and tyres, while the sculptured fender flares embrace the wheels and combine with the front undercover to add SUV-defining toughness.

At the back, the backlight wraps around into the sides, softening the upright tailgate lines and accenting the forward movement of the silhouette. One of many noticeable features, Outlander uses a split tailgate that boasts high utility. The lower section is integral with an oversized bumper, imparting a sportier dash to the rear end and giving it the light, rhythmic appearance of an awning. Visually appearing to be part of the rear window, the LED rear combination lamps – already used with Grandis – lend a futuristic and hi-tech accent to the rear view.

While halogen headlamps are standard on all models, the VRX has the option of high intensity discharge (HID) headlamps in the Luxury option pack, delivering improved clarity for night driving. Fog lamps integrated into the front bumper are standard on XLS and VRX models.
The headlamps feature a levelling device which is manually operated on the halogen headlamps, while they operate automatically on VRX Luxury option pack. The device ensures that even under heavy loads on low beam, the headlamps are directed to the correct position on the road, improving the driver’s vision and not distracting other motorists.

Outlander uses a split tailgate to maximize the benefits of the low-floor luggage compartment and to give better access to the luggage compartment. The lower section opens at 600 mm above the ground, thereby allowing bulky items to be loaded and unloaded with ease. Splitting the tailgate means that the regularly used upper section is light and compact, thereby enhancing ease of use.

The radio antenna is a bee-sting type, mounted in the middle of the roof at the rear of the wagon.

Interior

The stylish, sporty and highly functional feel continues to the interior of Outlander. The dash is a clean, uncluttered space comprising all the necessary features. The centre console houses easy-to-use dials that control the air conditioning, which is also ducted to the second row passengers.

A custom designed Rockford Fosgate in-car audio entertainment system is standard in the VRX. The system features a 650 watt amplifier with 6-CD stacker and is configured with nine speakers, including a 25cm subwoofer housed in the left rear quarter panel. The XLS and VR have a standard 6-CD stacker with six speakers, while the base model LS has the standard single CD AM/ FM audio system with a six speaker configuration. All audio units are MP3 compatible and speakers on all models are specially encased for premium quality sound.

The instrument panel, which illuminates red when the lights are on, has an LCD multi-information display flanked by two clear gauges, a speedometer and tachometer. An information button on the right-hand side of the steering column allows drivers to access the display, which gives the driver a range of information including the transmission position, fuel volume and consumption, trip distance and average speed. A push- button rheostat on the side of the tachometer allows the driver to dim or brighten the display panel lighting.

The cabin area has a multitude of storage areas and cupholders throughout – in the front and rear doors, in the dash area, and a lidded centre console between the front two seats. Other convenience features include vanity mirrors and a dash mounted thermo-box in VR and VRX which is ducted from the air conditioning for keeping food and drinks cool in summer or warm in winter. Cupholders are on the driver’s side of the instrument panel and in the rear trim, while all four doors have bottle holders.

The LS has a leather-wrapped steering wheel, handbrake lever and gearshift knob, with the audio controls and cruise control functions mounted in the steering wheel. Additionally, the XLS, VR and VRX have steering wheel mounted paddle shift controls for up, and down-shifting.

The all-new Outlander comes with power steering, power windows, air conditioning (manual on LS and VR, and automatic climate control on XLS and VRX) and cruise control as standard across the range.

It has semi-bucket seats with a high hip point in the front, and these give the front passengers good visibility, and the perception of riding in a larger SUV. The seat fabric on LS, XLS and VR models is hard-wearing but modern fabric, while the top-of-the-line VRX has the option of a sporty black leather interior trim when the Luxury option pack is selected. The driver’s seat in the VRX is a four-way electric adjustable seat.

The second row seat is a 60:40 split with separate squab cushions, and each side slides (80mm), reclines and tumbles independently. The sliding action of this seat gives passengers up to 875mm of leg space. The simple action of holding a button on either side of the rear quarter panel lining will cause the headrest for that second row seat to retract, the seat back to fold down, the seat to slide forward and the whole assembly to tumble forward, thereby giving very flexible cargo configurations. For safety reasons, this feature does not operate unless a rear door or the tailgate is open. The seats can be tumbled forward manually using the recline lever at the side of the seat.

When the second row seat is in the upright position, the volume of Outlander’s luggage space is 1119 litres; once the seats are folded forward the space almost doubles to an impressive 2056 litres. Access to the luggage compartment is made easy with the addition of a split tail-gate. The top of the gate opens upward to give quick access to luggage, while for larger, heavier items the lower portion of the tail gate lowers to floor level, maximising the luggage accessibility.

However, an occasional third row seat option is also available on all models, and when these seats are optioned they stow under the cargo floor when not in use.The tail gate can hold loads of up to 200kg, making it ideal as a seat, or for loading heavier items.

The ceiling material absorbs odours and breaks them down removing unwanted smells while a clean air filter is fitted on the air conditioner to ensure dust and pollen remain outside the cabin area as much as possible. Privacy glass on all but the front windows on XLS, VR and VRX cuts out intense sunshine, keeping the car cooler, and also keeps occupants and luggage from prying eyes.

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety

By Alborz Fallah | November 24th, 2006

The 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Safety has a load of safety features that outdo even some of its European rivals. Front SRS dual-stage airbags are standard across the range. Dual-stage airbags are deployed in co-ordination with the seating position of the front seat passengers, ensuring the correct amount of inflation at the critical point of occupant impact. Side and curtain airbags for enhanced safety during side impacts are available across the range (standard on VRX and optional on LS, XLS and VR), while the inner sides of the pillars and roof have impact absorbing rib structures to mitigate head injuries in a collision.

Three-point seats belts are fitted in all seating positions. The driver and front passenger belts are ELR with pre-tensioners and force limiters. The seat belt anchor points are height adjustable. The two outer positions in the second row seat are ELR / ALR, while the centre position is ELR.The two seat belts in the third row seat are ELR.

ABS brakes with EBD is standard, and childproof locks are fitted to the rear doors. ZG Outlander achieved a six-star J-NCAP safety rating (measured to Japanese standards), and this is a class leading safety rating. This high level of safety is achieved through the RISE body structure and the introduction of new active and passive safety features.

Passive Safety Feature	Description
Seatbelts, 3 point ELR in all positions (ALR in four positions)	All of Outlander’s seven possible seating positions have 3-point seatbelts for passenger safety. The front seat belt systems include pre-tensioners and to further restrain the occupant, as well as force limiters to reduce chest injuries.
Second row seat headrests – 3 positions	Second row seat headrests are standard in all three seating positions. Headrests reduce the potential for whiplash injury in a frontal collision scenario. They are height adjustable to provide optimal positioning.
Driver and Front Passenger Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) Air bags (Dual Stage) Standard all models	To provide optimum protection in the event of a frontal collision, Outlander is fitted with SRS air bags in both front seating positions. Dual stage air bags are deployed in coordination with the seating position of the front seat passengers, ensuring the correct amount of inflation at the critical point of occupant impact.
Side and Curtain Supplementary Restraint System (SRS) Air bags Standard VRX models Optional LS / XLS / VR models	To provide optimum protection in the event of a side collision, Outlander is fitted with side SRS air bags in both front seating positions, while the curtain air bags extend to protect occupants of the second row.
Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body structure Standard all models	The RISE body, in conjunction with a newly developed integrated chassis in monocoque body provides enhanced protection to occupants in the event of a collision. The RISE body features collision energy absorbing joints designed to reduce the force of the impact that is transferred to the passenger cell. These are constructed with improved thickness and strength engineered into the vehicle frame’s structure.

Other passive safety enhancements include for instance:

a cross frame under the front seat squab to restrict forward movement of the occupantin a frontal impact,
an energy-absorbing floor pad and footrest.

Outlander, as with all Mitsubishi products, comes with a sophisticated engine immobiliser but, as another first uses Mitsubishi’s ‘Smart Key’ key fob that allows the door and tailgate locks to be opened or closed and the engine started or stopped with the remote unit in the driver’s pocket:

Remote entry mode:

The driver can open the doors or tailgate if they have the remote unit on them by simply taking hold of one of the door handles. The system beeps twice and flashes the hazard warning lamps twice to tell them the locks are open.

To activate the locks, all the driver has to do is press the LOCK switch in the door and tailgate handles. The system beeps once and flashes hazard warning lamps once to tell him the locks are engaged.

The remote entry system operates when the driver has the remote unit on them and is within a distance of 70 cm from the front doors or from the tailgate.

2- Engine start/stop mode:

The driver can start the engine if they have the remote unit on them simply by pressing the ignition knob to disengage the lock and then turning it ON. Returning the knob to its original position stops the engine.

Switches on the remote unit operate the windows and also the door mirrors in conjunction with the door locks. A switch located above the door handle also operates the windows and mirrors.

The keyless operating system comes with two remote units as standard but up to four can be registered with the system. The unit houses an emergency key with engine immobilizer for use in cases where the remote unit battery has run down or the system malfunctions. Used like a regular key, the emergency key can be used to open or close door locks and to start or stop the engine.

ZG Outlander’s electronics are controlled by Mitsubishi’s ETACS (Electronic Total Automotive Control System) which gathers and delivers information via a Control Area Network (CAN BUS). CAN BUS is an extremely reliable communications protocol that requires just two wires and enables continuous, multi-directional, high speed communication between all the vehicle’s ECUs and information sensors.

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander SUV ZG 07 MY

By Alborz Fallah | November 24th, 2006

As of … 20 seconds ago, Mitsubishi released its latest generation Outlander Compact SUV. We had this news piece sitting here waiting to be published for the last day or so, but there was an embargo and since Mitsubishi was playing nice enough to let us to know to begin with, we thought we will keep our promise and not let the news slip so quickly!

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Compact SUV ZG

Anyway, the new Outlander has two new four and six-cylinder engines, five and seven-seat configurations and a host of new drive-train, seating and other packaging innovations. So what do yo u think? Does it look niec or what? Personally I really the look, if only Mitsubishi could get whoever designed this beast to redesign the Mitsubishi 380, Mitsu’s fortunes might turn around!

Mitsubishi says that the new outlander was designed with one big thing in mind, fuel economy, and so the new 2.4 litre 16-valve DOHC four-cylinder MIVEC (Mitsubishi’s variable valve timing) engine develops 125kW and 226Nm of torque, the new engine has an alloy block and makes extensive use of resin components to decrease weight. A double overhead cam, with application of the MIVEC variable valve timing technology on both intake and exhaust valves, improves engine efficiency and contributes to the reduction in fuel consumption. However all this talk of reduction of fuel consumption has yet to lead Mitsubishi to actually release some fuel consumption figures!

Don’t panic, the 2.4 litre engine isn’t the only choice! For those wanting additional power, an all-new alloy 3.0 litre 24-valve SOHC V6 engine with MIVEC is also available. The bigger brother of the smaller engine produces 162kW at 6250 rpm and 276Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.

We all know that Mitsubishi are amongst the leaders of AWD and steering technology, one only has to admire the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution to notice this. So applying all their technological skills, Mitsu has come up with Mitsubishi’s All Wheel Control (AWC) technology, which incorporates Mitsubishi All Terrain Technology with the all new Active Select 4WD system. This is an electronically controlled, on-demand all wheel drive system (with Active Stability Control on six-cylinder models).

The advanced AWD system is coupled with a CVT (continuous variable transmission) with INVECS III and 6-speed ‘Sport Mode’ tiptronic-style sequential shifting function on four-cylinder models. The CVT maintains the engine revolutions at an optimum speed, adjusting the gearing to suit. It is controlled by INVECS III, the latest iteration of Mitsubishi’s acclaimed fuzzy logic intelligent transmission control system. This also allows use of a 6-speed Sport Mode, enabling the driver to change gears manually.

The system is coupled to a new INVECS II intelligent six-speed automatic transmission with ‘Sports Mode’ sequential shifting on six-cylinder models. Did you get all that? No, well don’t, the essential thing is, that its good! CVT transmissions are the way of the future, so don’t simply agree with the Holden salesmen who tells you that a 4-speed auto tranie is all you need.

The four wheel drive system draws on Mitsubishi Motors’ vast experience with this technology. A major advance is an electronically controlled coupling that allows the driver to change modes on the fly, switching from two to all wheel drive at the turn of a dial. Driving the vehicle in 2WD mode offers much better fuel economy, while the AWD options offer increased safety when required and the ability to get off the beaten track. There are two AWD selection positions;

a full-time AWD option
an auto setting in which the vehicle instantly allocates torque to each of the individual four wheels according to their traction on the road surface.

Mitsubishi’s All Wheel Control is enhanced by Active Stability Control being standard on VR and VRX models.Four wheel disc brakes are standard across the range and the XLS and VRX run on wide footprint 18 inch wheels, while 16 inch wheels and tyres are fitted to the LS and VR. Naturally ABS with Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) is standard across the range.

Mitsubishi says that the new generation Outlander is longer, wider and higher than the previous models, some of the cooler features of the Outlander include innovative one-touch automatic fold rear seats that gives a host of flexible cargo carrying options, the option of an occasional third row seat that stows under the cargo floor when not in use, improved safety engineering and an aluminium roof for reduction of body weight and centre of gravity.

Interior space for the new outlander is generous with maximum rear leg room of 875 mm and maximum cargo space with the rear seats up of 1119 litres and with them folded down of 2056 litres. The centre-console includes the gear change, 2WD/AWD selector, hand operated park brake and an elbow-high, two level storage compartment.

Three-point seat belts are standard in all seating positions, while front dual-stage airbags and the front seat belts with pre-tensioners and force limiters are standard throughout the range. Side and curtain airbags are standard on the VRX and are available on all other models.

ZG Outlander comes comprehensively equipped with all the following as standard:

power steering,
power windows (on all doors),
power external mirrors,
air conditioning (with ducting to the rear compartment),
cruise control,
steering wheel mounted audio controls,
integrated fascia with AM/FM audio with CD, MP3 and WMA,
leather-wrapped steering wheel,
gearshift knob and handbrake lever,
multi-function information display .

2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Model Differentiation

The diagram above is a good way of showing the different models and their features. Mitsubishi’s PR team has done a good job with so real useful information and diagrams, there is a link to a huge PDF document at the end of this post for much more detail. The top-of-the-line VRX model gets a 650-watt 9-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium audio system as standard, while it can also be optioned as part of a ‘Sports Pack’ in XLS and VR.There are eight colour choices -

White Pearl (P),
Cool Silver (M),
Mystic Blue (M),
Champagne (M),
Effect Grey (P),
Deep Blue Metallic (M),
Code Red, and Black Mica (P)

The new Outlander comes with Mitsubishi’s industry-leading 5 year / 130,000 kilometre bumper-to-bumper or 10 year / 160,000 kilometre non-transferable drivetrain warranty and 5 years Roadside Assistance as standard.

Prices for the new Outlander are below:

Model	5-seat	7-seat

LS 2.4L 4-cyl CVT	$31,990	$34,790

XLS 2.4 4-cyl CVT	$37,490	$41,540 (incl RSE)

VR 3.0L V6 6 A/T	$37,890	$40,690

VRX 3.0L V6 6 A/T	$43,190	$47,990 Luxury Pack – incl leather seats, HID headlamps, RSE

Options for the 4 models are listed below:

Model	Option	Price

LS	Side and curtain airbags	$1,500

XLS	Side and curtain airbags	$1,500
	Sports Pack (Sunroof, Rockford Fosgate 9-speaker premium audio system)	$2,300

VR	Side and curtain airbags	$1,500
	Sports Pack (16″ alloys, side and curtain airbags, fog lamps	$2,580

VRX	Sunroof	$1,600

Full model specifications can be found in this PDF document: ZG 2007 Mitsubishi Outlander Specifications

Subaru Impreza RB320

By Alborz Fallah | November 24th, 2006

Subaru is commemorating the anniversary of rally ace Richard Burns’ death. No they are not giving money to charity or improving safety, they are doing something far more useful, they are releasing the fastest Impreza, ever. A special edition Impreza, the RB320.

The Impreza RB320 comes with the Impreza WRX STi’s performance pack to boost power to 316bhp and it does the 0-100km/hr dash in just 4.8 seconds. Yep thats bloody fast, beats the standard STis 5.4 seconds with its eyes closed. These figures make it the quickest and most powerful Impreza ever, and its a cop magnet… just look at it!

The RB320 comes with unique 18in alloy wheels with Prodrive made suspension. This beautiful rex is lowered by 10mm at the rear and 30mm at the front. Other RB320 specific parts include a revised rear anti-roll bar, chrome mesh front grille, front lip spoiler, quickshift gearchange, sill plates and gear knob. Owners also receive an individually numbered black alloy tax-disc holder.

Speaking of owners, there is absolutely no chance you can buy this here in Australia as its a limited release in the UK, I know its a big shame, but there is the possibility of an import, however by the time you’ve actually got the car in your garage, it might have been cheaper to just mod the hell out of your STi!

The car costs $74,000 AUD, but it looks like its worth every cent.

2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 320 CDI GL 500

By Alborz Fallah | November 24th, 2006

Although Mercedes really likes to think of the GL class as SUVs, I have to put Mercedes in their place, come on guys, these things might have all the capabilities of an SUV, but they never even go on dusty roads let alone off-road! But thats not why people buy them, afterall the kids need to get safely to and from school and since your wife can’t really drive, its a great idae to buy her a big gigantic SUV… right?

Okay, now that I’ve vented some of the frustration that comes with seeing these monsters on the road, lets get down to the actual cars. Mercedes-Benz presents its new range-leading SUV the all-new GL-Class. This all new premium off-roader is available in either the

V6 diesel GL 320 CDI – 165 kW, 510 Newton – 9.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometers
Petrol GL 500 285 kW

Customers interested in the multi-purposed GL-Class, which can optionally seat up to seven people, should go see their local Mercedes-Benz dealer.

Mercedes like to be first when it comes to new technology and the new GL class is no different, offering the PRE-SAFE® safety system, a first in this market segment. The system’s most striking feature: passive and active safety systems are networked with each other. PRE-SAFE® utilises the sensors in the dynamic handling control systems such as ABS, BAS (Brake Assist) and ESP® and optimises the protective function of the passive safety components in potential accident situations. The GL-Class also takes the issue of pedestrian protection to a new level. The front section includes precisely defined ample crumple space between the body and the major assemblies underneath. In con-junction with impact zones that are designed to yield, this design provides a high degree of protection both for pedestrians and cyclists.
The entry level GL 320 CDI delivers 165 kW, while its ample 510 Newton meters are on tap across a wide range of engine speeds. Despite all of this power, the engine only burns 9.8 litres of diesel per 100 kilometers.

The GL 500 features a newly developed 5.5 litre V8 petrol engine with a rated output of no less than 285 kW. Both engines are teamed up with the 7G-TRONIC automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT as standard.

“The GL-Class combines superior on and off road capabilities in total luxury”, said Horst von Sanden, managing director responsible for Mercedes Car Group in Aus-tralia.

“Mercedes-Benz has a long and proud history of off-road expertise and the new GL-Class builds on this. With the standard inclusion of the Off-road Pro Engineer-ing package, AIRMATIC air suspension and a unique sense of luxury, the GL–Class blends comfort and driving performance, two hallmarks of the Mercedes-Benz brand.

“The GL-Class allows us to meet additional customer needs, providing a large ver-satile vehicle with seven seats optionally available.”

The distinctive design of the GL-Class exudes power and exclusivity. Calm body surfaces, powerful, wedge-shaped features and striking details give the impression the luxury off-roader is surging forward even when stationary. The spacious body (length 5088 mm, width 1920 mm, height 1840 mm) is beautifully proportioned.

The GL-Class is surprisingly agile with 4MATIC- the permanent all-wheel-drive system from Mercedes-Benz, helping to give the GL-Class superior handling dynamics under any conditions. The GL-Class not only cuts a good figure on the road, it also shines as a genuine off-roader. The standard specification Off-Road Pro engineering package considerably enhances the car’s off-road capabilities.

Comfortable Ride Regardless of Conditions

The welcoming interior with its top-quality materials provides passengers with that feel-good atmosphere as only Mercedes knows how, with more than ample space for up to seven people. The GL-Class offers superb comfort on board – whether you’re just popping into town, cruising hundreds of kilometres or negotiating rough terrain. Occupants still enjoy good freedom of movement even on the two full-sized individual seats in the third row of seats. The distance to the middle row of seats is 815 mm, with 979 mm headroom for passengers. If fewer seats are required, the rear individual seats can be stowed electrically at the push of a but-ton, either individually or in tandem to provide a completely flat load surface. The luggage compartment capacity amounts to 1240 litres in the five-seater version.

The GL-Class can provide up to 2300 litres of load capacity, with the load compartment measuring 2128 mm in length. In line with the wide range of applications handled by the versatile all-rounder, the THERMATIC automatic climate control system fitted as standard in the GL 320 CDI provides consistent temperature for all seven seats both in the depths of winter and on those sweltering summer days. The GL 500 comes with the standard-fit multi-zone THERMOTRONIC system, which offers even more climatic comfort. Other standard convenience and comfort appointments include ARTICO man-made leather upholstery combinations in the GL 320 CDI, electrically adjustable front seats and a fixed rear glass roof above the third row of seats.

Technological advancements gives better safety

The GL-Class makes full use of the advantages of its unitised body, combining optimum strength with intelligent lightweight steel design. The result is excellent passive safety. Combined with the front and rear deformation zones, the high-strength occupant cell forms an efficient base for the occupant protection systems that include:

Adaptive, two-stage airbags for the driver and front passenger
Sidebags in the front, and in the middle row of seats as standard
Windowbags across all three rows of seats from the A to the D-pillar
NECK-PRO crash-responsive head restraints for the driver and front passenger as standard
3-point seat belts on all seven seats
Seat-belt pretensioners and adaptive belt-force limiters for the driver and front passenger, seat-belt pretensioners and belt-force limiters on the outer seats in the middle row

The GL-Class meets all the requirements of a state-of-the-art, luxury SUV and even redefines them on a higher level. Yet the hallmark Mercedes off-roader genes such as superlative robustness, ruggedness and long-term durability have not been compromised. It is not without reason that the model designation echoes the legendary precursor of all Mercedes-Benz off-road vehicles – the G-Class. Al-though not available for sale in Australia, the evergreen off-roader is now in its 27th year of production and will continue to be marketed alongside the new GL-Class.

Handling on road (and off-road – if it ever happens we’d love to know)

4MATIC – the permanent four-wheel drive from Mercedes-Benz – provides the GL-Class with superior handling whatever the conditions. Together with the standard-fit AIRMATIC air suspension, the precise speed-sensitive power steering and the ADS (Adaptive Damper System) also fitted as standard, the imposing GL-Class (wheelbase 3075 mm) handles impressively. Handling, when pulling a trailer is no less impressive thanks to ESP® Trailer Stabilisation. It defuses critical driving situations involving a trailer before they become dangerous by precisely applying the brakes, while AIRMATIC provides fully automatic level adjustment.

Special off-road features such as Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR), hill-start as-sist and off-road ABS assist the GL-Class driver off road. The Off-Road Pro engineering package, standard on all GL models, means the GL-Class can also handle the most extreme off-road terrain. This includes a two-speed transfer case with a low range ratio and 100 percent differential locks for the transfer case and the rear axle. The modified AIRMATIC air suspension, designed specifically for the more demanding conditions, increases the ground clearance to a maximum of 307 millimetres where required, and raises the fording depth to 600 millimetres.

New V6 and V8 engines

The ultra-modern engine line-up in all GL-Class models provides superlative drive comfort and compelling performance coupled with superior fuel consumption figures compared with other vehicles in the class. Alongside the 165-kW V6 diesel engine in the GL 320 CDI is the newly developed 5.5-litre, 285-kW engine in the GL 500. This engine was launched earlier this year in the new S-Class. Both engines also fulfil the stringent EU4 limits.

All GL-Class engine variants come with the 7G-TRONIC seven-speed automatic transmission with DIRECT SELECT as standard. Excellent performance and low fuel consumption result from the perfect combination of ultra-modern engines with 7G-TRONIC and the friction-optimised powertrain. Another important factor is the comparatively low gross vehicle weight thanks to the unitised body and the excellent aerodynamics (Cd 0.37) for such a large vehicle.

Success story from state-of-the-art production facilities

“Mercedes Quality – Made in the USA” has established itself as the company’s new trademark on the other side of the Atlantic and illustrates the success story of the DaimlerChrysler plant in Tuscaloosa/Alabama. The birthplace of the
GL-Class started production in 1997 as the first Mercedes-Benz plant outside Europe. Around 600 million US dollars have been invested since 2001 in expand-ing and constantly modernising the plant; overall the company has invested around 1 billion US dollars. Following the extension of the Tuscaloosa plant in May 2005, its theoretical annual production capacity for all model series stands at 160,000 units. The new GL-Class is now the third model series to be built here, alongside the M-Class and the R-Class.

Prices for the premium off-roader start at a competitive $103,900 for the entry level GL 320 CDI with the GL 500 priced at $146,900 (both exclude on-road costs).

Most likely to recommend a BMW

By Alborz Fallah | November 23rd, 2006

Apparently, buying a BMW is an investment in your health and happiness – not only because your satisfied with your purchase, but infact your so satisfied that your willing to recommend it to all your friends, or so says Mark Ritson, Associate Professor of Marketing at Melbourne Business School. According to research BMW is doing a better job of taking care of its customers in Australia than any other automotive brand.

Net Promoter Scores (NPS) were the basis of the research conducted, with the new approach finding that BMW achieved the highest results in terms of customer recommendations among automotive brands. Although already adopted by many major organisations in the United States, this study is the first time NPS data has been collected so extensively in Australia.

NPS is calculated by asking a sample of customers how likely they would be to recommend a brand to others. In the survey, 2,000 face-to-face interviews were conducted across Australia to gauge customer loyalty across a number of categories. Ritson claims that an insight into customer recommendations can be used as a solid basis for predicting future business growth.

According to Ritson, the data offers a reminder that customers are key and the companies that don’t get that message will eventually lose out to those who do. The highest NPS scored by any brand represented in the survey across all industries was BMW.

BMW are quick to point out that the only category in which BMW was outscored, was on choice of Australian holiday destinations, with Broome a clear winner. The research can perhaps explain BMW’s rather impressive sales growth in Australia, with BMW sales having grown more than any other European premium brand in the last five years, adding 3,704 units to its tally. (2001: 12,206 vs. 2005: 15,910)

Franz Sauter, Managing Director, BMW Group Australia, says the research underpins what BMW has always strived to achieve with its customers.

“The innovation in design and technology BMW has delivered in the past few years has struck a chord with BMW customers, our target market.

“BMW engineers every car to deliver sheer driving pleasure, and undoubtedly this ensures drivers form an emotional bond with their car,” says Sauter.

One thing I do like to add though is that just because your willing to recommend something doesnt mean its great or even that you like it! I mean we all know “BMW drivers” – and I wouldn’t put it past them to simply recommend a BMW to their friends because they’d like their friends to think that they’ve made the right choice, and that because they drive a BMW, its a good car! Not taking anything away from BMW off course, I’d recommend an M6 to everyone… too bad you have to sell your liver and kidneys to get your hands on one.

Nissan Skyline 2007 12th Gen

By Alborz Fallah | November 23rd, 2006

For most of us, when we think of a Nissan Skyline, the likes of a the R32, R33 and the R34 come to mind. The angry car that put nissan on the map for sports cars, off course, it wasn’t the Skyline per say that made Nissan a true sports car maker, it was mostly the GT-R series of Skylines that literally destroyed all other cars in every category imaginable (except perhaps, comfort and interior styling – but who wants that in a twin turbo AWD Godzilla?). They were so good infact that after being involved in motor racing with Ford and Holden, both ‘aussie’ companies complained so much that Nissan was dropped as a competitor – because they were just too good!

So the R35 Skyline, as I like to call it, is out in Japan, The 12th Generation skyline has lost a lot of its glamour and road presence. Based on the Nissan 350z, the Skyline has become a tamed beast with little hint of its boy-racer heritage. Infact I am almost willing to say I am disappointed in the look. The car looks far to feminine to be wearing a Skyline badge. But don’t worry, the Nissan Skyline GT-R coming out in Japan next year looks very little like this sportscar.

Nissan had promised a while ago that the Skyline will share nothing with the GT-R, although I think that was a massive overstatement, I am happy that Nissan are taking the GT-R to a new level, the supercar level, where it really belongs. Anyway before I get carried away talking about the GT-R, lets get back to the Skyline.

Nissan has redesigned the vehicle with an all all-new exterior and interior designs, the car is based on the FR-L (Front Engine/Rear Drive/Large car) platform and is powered by newly developed VQ35HR V6 engine. Nissan hopes that the new Skyline will attract some new buyers to the brand, perhaps, almost, the wrong crowd if you ask me! Unlike other Japanese manufacturers such Toyota, Nissan engineers are not willing to compromise and so the Skyline keeps its rear-wheel drive system whilst getting what Nissan describes as “the world’s first four-wheel active steering system, which adjusts the steering angles of the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving speeds and steering operation“.

Offcourse a feature like that would have been origianlly invisioned for the GT-R so yes, the GT-R is also getting it.

Comparing the new Skyline to the R34 Skyline the new model comes stock a good 20mm lower overall, while the overall width is 20mm wider Nissan explains that the next generation FR-L platform has been engineered to deliver a fun and exhilarating driving experience without having to compromise on a smooth and comfortable ride – offcourse you have to drive it before you can judge, but given that the same platform will be used for the GT-R I guess its cant be that bad.

So enough talk of all this new features, lets get to the real point of a Skyline; power. Unlike the old GTS-Ts of old and the not so old R34 GTS, the new engines are unforgivably naturally aspirated. This will be a huge dissapointment to the majority of true Skyline fans, but nonetheless, the powerfigures aren’t too bad. There are two choices.

2.5-litre V6: 165kW / 263Nm
3.5-litre V6: 231kW / 358Nm

Nissan claims that the 3.5-litre V6 is capable of revving up to 7500rpm. Well there is no turbo but at least it comes with a nice gearbox right? Nope, both engines are mated to 5-speed automatic transmissions – there is no manual confirmed as of yet. However, the auto box will feature adaptive shift control, allowing the driver to be in full control of the power generated by the new engine – still no manual.

The new dumbed down Skyline comes equipped with 18-inch (sports models) and 17-inch (standard models) aluminium wheels – nevertheless, I suspect that a great deal of the Skyline wheels will get replaced within the first few days of purchased – Given that stock, the car somes with 18-inch wheels, I can only imagine how many Skylines will be riding on 20-inch wheels soon! Though the sport model is equipped with different sized front (225/50R) and rear (245/45R) tyres.
The new Skyline has been launched in Japan and retails there from ¥2,793,000 which is about $31,000 AUD. Nissan hopes to sell 1,000 Skylines a month in Japan.

Kia Magentis earns five-star safety rating

By Alborz Fallah | November 21st, 2006

I didn’t really think I would ever be typing the words Kia and five-star safety rating in the same sentence, but stranger things have happened, so I am not as surprised as usual. The Kia Magentis (known as the Optima in the USA and some other markets) has earned the highest possible safety rating – five stars – for all seating positions in the latest frontal and side impact crash tests conducted by the US Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Seriously though, we have to take a deep breath and really give Kia the big thumbs up, because to have come from such low levels of safety to take the best possible rating in such a short time is quite an achievement and I only hope sales ofthe new Magentis will reflect this.

The Magentis comes with six standard airbags, including full-length side-curtain airbags.

“We are extremely pleased and not at all surprised with the performance of Optima (Magentis) and its resulting five-star rating in NHTSA’s recent testing,” said Len Hunt, executive vice president and COO of Kia Motors America.

“The latest five-star rating is further evidence of our commitment to building high quality vehicles with unprecedented levels of standard safety and convenience features.”

In Australia, the new Kia Magentis offers standard safety equipment across all three models -

anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA),
electronic stability program (ESP) with traction control,
dual front SRS airbags,
side SRS airbags,
curtain SRS airbags,
pre-tensioner front seatbelts and active headrests.

Thats more than most Australian made cars.

Kia is quick to point out that no other car in the medium segment offers such a complete package of safety equipment, whilst really that is not exactly true as cars like the Subaru Liberty tend to offer the same level of safety, albeit perhaps missing the electronic stability program (ESP) with traction control, nonetheless Subaru;s permanent AWD technology counters that.

You can read more about the features of the Kia Magentis here

Porsche sells 200,000 Boxsters

By Alborz Fallah | November 21st, 2006

Porsche is celebrating a car that turned the struggling supercars fortune around. The 200,000th Boxster has just rolled off the production line at Porsche’s partner Valmet Automotive in Uusikaupunki in Finland. This landmark vehicle, a meteor grey metallic Boxster S, is being delivered to a customer in the US.

I am a big fan of the Porsche Boxster S, maybe only because its not just another 911 and although whilst I do think its more of a chicks car than a mans car (definitely for the standard Boxter), its still a work of art.

“Ten years ago, no one would have believed what a huge success this Porsche mid-range roadster has become. Thanks to our flexible production system, we can manufacture the Boxster model series at both our main plant in Zuffenhausen and at Valmet. Today’s milestone will especially inspire employees at both plants to continue the success story that is the Boxster.” Said, Executive Vice President Production and Logistics, Michael Macht.

At the roadster’s launch in 1996, Porsche had assumed an annual production of 15,000 units. In the past fiscal year 2005/06, total sales of this model series, since extended to include the mid-range Cayman coupé, amounted to 27,906. The most important market for the Boxster is North America, which has a share of sales of around 40%, followed by Germany with up to 20%.

For the current model year, which began on August 1, 2006, both Boxster models have been upgraded again. The power of the 2.7-liter component in the basic model has now been increased by five HP to 245 HP (180 kW). The boxer engine in the latest Boxster S, which has grown in size from 3.2 to 3.4 liters, can unleash 295 HP (217 kW), 15 HP more than its predecessor.

Subaru Performance Handbook

By Alborz Fallah | November 20th, 2006

As a current WRX owner, the acronyms “MRT” are very very familiar, for those who prefer to read it as MR T, they are welcome to click here, for the rest of us, today is a great day as MRT’s New Performance ‘Bible’ Is Ready!

If your Subaru is your passion, the latest edition of a specialist tuning guide will be a must-have for the book shelf – and the workshop. Now known as Subaru Performance Handbook, this valuable resource was first published as Training WRX in 1999, an amusing, easy-to-read and highly informative tool for anyone who owned or intended to own a Subaru.

It was put together by Nick Warne, Brett Middleton and Steve Bijok from MRT Performance, the Sydney-based company synonymous with getting the best out of Subaru models. Training WRX became an absolute winner, so the MRT team updated it in 2001 into a bigger format with more information (Edition Two). Now, tripled in content, it’s in its third edition.

“We believe it provides a wealth of general information about the Subaru range – with a focus on the Impreza models – and ways of improving it,” says MRT’s CEO, Brett Middleton.

“It doesn’t matter whether the owner is a ‘rookie’ on a limited budget or a long-term enthusiast who is constantly looking for the next ‘hard-core’ upgrade, the information they need to know is in Subaru Performance Handbook.

“Some might think that publishing such a book would be bad for business but I believe it enhances it. After all, it’s another way of sharing the passion! There is no other book available in the world that includes such detailed data, nor even comes close,” Mr Middleton says.

Subaru Performance Handbook is primarily aimed at the enthusiast who plans to model his or her car for use on the street or the occasional run around a track. It is not intended to be a guide for vehicle preparation for serious motorsport.

Subjects covered include general maintenance, suspension, brakes, intake and exhaust, engine management, turbochargers and intercoolers, drive train and wheels and tyres.

The information comes from years of personal and professional experience of the author (Steve Bijok) and all the team at MRT Performance. It’s easy to read and backed by photos, cartoons and graphics which clarify the advice being given.

It is an exhaustive – but not exhausting – compilation of really useful information for any Subaru owner keen to make their car a cut above the rest but, importantly, while encouraging readers to have fun, the authors also emphasise the need for commonsense and responsibility.

Subaru Performance Handbook is available on-line through the MRT website ($76.32) and at specialist motoring bookshops.