Downfall in Rupee boosted up car exports in 2011

2011 saw a considerable downfall in the value of the rupee, and as a result, it was anticipated that this would hit and affect the export market of cars. Rather it turned out to be quite the other way round as the car export business of many bigwigs in the automobile industry such as Maruti Suzuki, Hyundai, Toyota, Nissan, have recorded an increase for year 2011. Though Maruti Suzuki took the whole year to recover from the losses they had to face in the past one year, it got left a little behind in the race. But after this considerable downfall Maruti Suzuki is trying its level-best to stand up once again as the most demanded automobile brand in India.

Although the losses suffered by Maruti Suzuki were massive, yet they are looking forward to regaining all the shares that they had lost in the market. In the coming months, Maruti Suzuki will be launching the newest version of A-Star, and it also plans to increase its production of diesel models by opening a diesel manufacturing power plant in Gurgaon very soon. The newest and highly upgraded version of Maruti Swift Dzire is also being anticipated in the market and has already attracted customers. This year Maruti Suzuki is looking forward to rolling out its MPV Ertiga onto the Indian roads. Now owing to the rupee downfall, Maruti Suzuki has astonishingly recorded escalating export demands and now plans to export the new Swift Dzire as well as its newly unveiled Ertiga MPV.

The head of Maruti Suzuki India, Shashank Srivastava, has given a brief count of the upcoming exports, and proudly announced that around 4500 bookings have already been finalized by dealers dealing in Maruti Suzuki abroad. These bookings have majorly been for its most demanding line-up of cars, consisting of Alto, A-Star, Zen Estilo, and Wagon R.
Over the last one year, due to the downfall of rupee, the exports of many prime automobile manufacturers soared to a considerable extent, and many companies reaped the benefit of this situation. According to experts, whenever there is a fluctuation in the currency, the automobile industry is vulnerable and can generate heavy profits by exports or vice versa. Last year car manufacturers reported approximately 16% boost in their export rate due to the fall of rupee.

Hyundai has been exporting its cars to its dealers based abroad since long and Ascent is one of the most demanding cars to be exported by the company. Along with that the newly launched Hyundai Eon and i10 have also benefited the company by meeting export demands on a grand scale.

Toyota, on the other hand, hopes to increase its export of Toyota Etios Liva and Toyota Etios Sedan into the global market. Nissan seems to be a veteran as it has been into export since a long time now. Nissan Micra failed to meet up to the export demands, and that is why the company now plans to export Sunny to other countries.

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Spy Shots: New BMW M135i with 320HP 3.0-liter Turbocharged Six

Earlier this week, BMW blew the covers off the first models of its new M Performance sub-brand, namely the M550d, X5 M50d and X6 M50d.
But that's only the beginning as the German firm plans to expand the range to include if not all, most of its models including the 1-Series five-door hatchback, a prototype of which our scoop photographers caught while testing in Europe (albeit with a fake 118i moniker on the tailgate).

So far, the most powerful model of the new 1-Series hatch is the recently announced 125i sporting a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine that puts out 218bhp and 310Nm (228 lb-ft) propelling the five-door model to 100km/h (62mph) in 6.4 seconds and on to a maximum velocity of 245 km/h (152mph).

According to our sources, the M Performance version of the 1-Series 5d will be named M135i and will be powered by the same N55 3.0-liter inline-six gasoline engine with twin blowers found in the 6-Series models such as the new Grand Coupe 640i. This means it will produce at least 320-horsepower and 450Nm (331.9 lb-ft).

We don't know yet if the BMW will get a rear-wheel drive setup or if, like the first examples of the M Performance range, an xDrive all-wheel drive system, but the grunt will be transferred to the road through a six-speed manual or an optional 8-speed automatic transmission.

The prototype seen here was fitted with a new body kit similar in appearance to the 1-Series Performance Concept car displayed at last year's Frankfurt Motor Show.

BMW M's engineers will also make changes to the M135i's suspension and steering wheel settings along with the addition of more powerful brakes to improve its dynamics and handling.

The new M135i could make its global debut as early as this March at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.
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2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe

The BMW 6 Series is a popular coupe that combines high level luxury with amazing performance. Available in coupe and convertible, a new member of its stable has arrived. And it is unlike practically everything else on the road today. This car is the 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe.

Interior & Exterior

The Gran Coupe is a sporty 4 door coupe reminiscent of the car that it would possibly rival on the market: the Mercedes Benz CLS. It resembles the typical 6 Series Coupe, but it possesses a wheelbase that is 4.4 inches longer compared to the coupe in order to accommodate better seating.

Perhaps due to the extended wheelbase, the Gran Coupe is a 5 seater compared to the Coupe and Convertible that is a 4 seater. Not only that, this car features some of the innovative technologies that are a staple for BMW vehicles. This includes a new LED lighting system, night vision, and the ConnectiveDrive infotainment system, just to name a few.

Performance

But the innovation doesn’t stop there. A new 4.4 liter V8 engine makes its way to the Gran Coupe. An engine that features “reverse flow”, it is equipped with 2 turbochargers that are strategically placed to enhance power delivery.

The result is the production of 445 horsepower and 480 lb-ft. Not only was this engine more powerful, but it is also more fuel efficient. An all-new 8 speed automatic transmission is paired to this motor, providing a combination of responsiveness, efficiency, and speed. The 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe shapes up to be one of the most anticipated cars for 2012.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 197.1 in. (501 cm)	Wheel Base: 116.9 in. (297 cm)
Height: 54.8 in. (139 cm)	Width: 74.6 in. (189 cm)
Curb Weight: 4278 lbs (1940 kg)	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Twin Power Turbo V8 DOHC	Displacement: 4395 cc
Horsepower: 445 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 480 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds	Maximum Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)

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2013 BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe


All-New 2013 BMW 6-Series Gran Coupe 4-door unveiled


Introducing the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe – a new 4-door, 4+1 seat addition to the 6 Series line that successfully combines the stunning proportions, design and driving dynamics of the 6 Series Coupe with interior room and amenities for up to five passengers. Harmonious proportions, precise lines and sleekly contoured surfaces give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the unique ability to satisfy the driver who wants a luxurious and sporty coupe yet needs a car capable of carrying four adults in comfort and luxury. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe will be offered as three distinct models in the USA. The TwinPower Turbo 6-cylinder powered 2013 BMW 640i Gran Coupe is the initial model and arrives early this summer. Later in the summer, the TwinPower Turbo V-8 powered 2013 BMW 650i Gran Coupe and the all-wheel drive 2013 BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe will join the range.

Sporting a length of 197 inches (5,007 mm) and wheelbase of 116.8 inches (2,968 mm), the Gran Coupe is 4.4 inches (111 mm) longer than its 2-door coupe sibling. A significant part of this extra length has been used to enhance seating comfort for the rear passengers. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is also 74.6 inches (1,894 mm) wide and stands 54.8 inches (1,392 mm) in height. For comparison purposes, the Gran Coupe is 4.0 inches (102mm) longer, 1.3 inches (34mm) wider and 2.8 inches (72mm) lower than the BMW 550i.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, in keeping with the tradition of the 6 Series Coupe, offers a unique combination of top-class sporting dynamics, stunning design, luxurious touring comfort and a 16.24 cu. ft (460-liter) DIN luggage compartment – now for four passengers. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe's signature driving experience is complimented by a range of innovative driver assistance systems and BMW ConnectedDrive infotainment features. The new car therefore meets the highest expectations of driving pleasure and style in a large, premium 4-seat sports coupe.

Its unmistakable design language gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe an aura of athletic elegance. The long powerfully contoured hood, short front overhang and set-back passenger compartment team up with a 4.4 inch (111 mm) increase in body length over the 6 Series Coupe and a 4.5 inch (113 mm) longer wheelbase present a fresh take on the hallmark proportions of a BMW automobile. The Gran Coupe's distinctive profile is dominated by its four-door, elegantly stretched roof line which flows smoothly into the rear end, is a similarly eye-catching and distinctive feature of the new model's silhouette.

The innovations in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe also extend to lighting technology, in the shape of optional Adaptive LED Headlights. Their bright white light provides an extremely intense and evenly spread illumination of the road. This technology is unparalleled in the segment and also allows the beam of the headlights to follow the curves of the road.

Other features that set the new car apart from its rivals are the BMW ConnectedDrive driver assistance systems and mobility services. The rear-view camera, Surround View, Parking Assistant, BMW Night Vision with pedestrian recognition, Lane Departure Warning System and Active Blind Spot Detection are joined on the list of available equipment items by the new generation of the BMW Head-Up-Display. The latest incarnation of the system uses a full spectrum of colors to display the information projected onto the windshield. The standard BMW iDrive control system is the operating portal for the navigation, communications and infotainment functions. The high definition, trans-reflective technology Control Display is centrally mounted high on the sweeping dash and emulates a freestanding flatscreen. Finally, the optional Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System provides a feast of aural pleasure seldom experienced inside a car.

BMW's widely lauded TwinPower Turbo V-8 engine is updated with more performance and more efficiency in the 650i Gran Coupe.

The 4.4-liter V-8 engine (N63) that powers the current 650i models receives an upgrade for the new 650i Gran Coupe. The unique "reverse-flow" engine, whose two turbochargers are positioned in the V-area between the cylinder banks is well known for producing an instantaneous and sustained wave of power, making it a delight for the enthusiast driver. This new version of the engine adds BMW's VALVETRONIC variable valve timing to the list of specifications. As a result, the new version of the engine (N63Tü) develops a maximum 445 hp between 5,500 and 6,000 rpm (a 45 hp increase), and makes peak torque of 480 lb-ft between 2,000 and 4,500 rpm (a 30 lbs-ft increase).

The new BMW 650i Gran Coupe completes the sprint from 0 to 62 mph (0 to 100km/h) in 4.6 seconds. Top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. This engine also boasts extraordinary efficiency for a model in its output class. Its average fuel consumption lies between 8.6 and 8.8 l/100km (26.7-27.3 mpg), (provisional figures according to EU test cycle depending on tire options). EPA fuel economy ratings will be available closer to the on-sale date in summer 2012.

When the V8 is combined with the xDrive intelligent all-wheel-drive system, its power is converted into even more intense and dynamic acceleration. The electronically controlled power split between the front and rear wheels optimizes not only traction and stability, whatever the weather and road surface conditions may be, but also the agility of the Gran Coupe 650i xDrive Gran Coupe, whose sprint time from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) is just 4.5 seconds.

8-speed Sport Automatic Transmission.
The 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe boasts a perfect combination of speed, flexibility, sportiness, and efficiency. What sets it apart are its minimal torque converter slip and rapid gear changes. An innovative gear set configuration allows this transmission to offer eight gears, maximizing acceleration at any road speed, yet allowing the driver to conserve fuel by cruising at low revs. Befitting the Gran Coupe's sporting character, the driver can choose to select gears manually via shift paddles on the standard Sport leather steering wheel.

In addition to the efficiency of the engine and 8-speed Sport Automatic transmission, an extensive range of BMW EfficientDynamics measures contribute to reducing fuel consumption and emissions. Brake Energy Regeneration, engine Auto Start-Stop, on-demand operation of ancillary components, intelligent lightweight construction and extensive aerodynamic refinement collaborate to ensure maximum efficiency.

Chassis Management and optional Integral Active Steering.

Cutting-edge chassis technology gives the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe the tools to provide both sporty handling and exceptional comfort. The double wishbone front axle and the multi-link rear axle are made predominantly from aluminum. The chassis is geared to the requirements of drivers with sporting intentions, although the dampers also respond sensitively to bumps in the road surface under high lateral acceleration. The optional Active Roll Stabilization combines with the standard Dynamic Damper Control to offer the driver even more precise responses and perfectly flat cornering ability. The electronically controlled shock absorbers adapt to the road surface and the driver's style to perfectly control the car's body motions.

The electronically controlled damper system in the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe adjusts compression and rebound settings continuously and independently. For example, a stiff chassis setting can be combined with comfortable responses to unevenness in the road surface. The control unit of the damping system processes the data supplied by sensors on the vertical motion of the wheels as well as the ride height of the car. The driving speed and the damper setting chosen by the driver are also taken into account in calculating the damping force required for each individual wheel to even out body movements. This data is fed back to the shock-absorber units at intervals of just 2.5 milliseconds.

The optional Active Roll Stabilization feature reduces body roll in corners and in sudden changes of direction, or transitions. Sensors calculate the amount of body roll based on the driving situation at hand, and this is then counteracted quickly and precisely by hydraulic rotary actuators in the front and rear anti-roll bars. The result is flatter cornering inspiring greater confidence for the driver as well as greater comfort for the passengers during spirited drives. The power steering features standard Servotronic vehicle-speed sensitive assistance, and serves up the familiar BMW recipe of precision, comfort and linear response.

The Gran Coupe is also available with Integral Active Steering. This system (also available on the 6 Series Coupe and Convertible) combines the Active Steering system for the front axle with a steerable rear axle. Precisely harmonized steering angle movements at both axles create a virtual lengthening or shortening of the vehicle's wheelbase, which fosters both greater high-speed stability and enhanced maneuverability for parking and city use.

Brakes, Wheels, and Tires.
The lightweight floating-caliper brakes feature vented discs and Dynamic Stability Control. DSC brings together technology such as the Anti-lock Braking System, Dynamic Traction Control, Cornering Brake Control, Dynamic Brake Control, the Start-off Assistant, the automatic Brake Drying function and Brake Fade Compensation. Standard equipment also includes 8.0 x18-inch light-alloy wheels, with all-season runflat tires (size 245/45 R18) and a tire pressure monitoring system.

Driving Dynamics Control with ECO PRO mode: Extra-sporty to the most fuel-efficient driving modes – at the press of a button.

The new 6 Series Gran Coupe offers impressive driving dynamics combined with new standards of comfort in the premium segment. This is a result of superbly tuned suspension which achieves an astonishing balance between dynamics and comfort. On top of this, drivers are also able to vary the overall character of the car depending on the driving situation or to suit their personal preferences. As well as sportier or more comfortable drive settings, they can also opt for extra fuel efficiency. The different modes are selected using the new Driving Dynamics Control function including ECO PRO mode, which is standard on all 6 Series models. The driver can choose settings of COMFORT+, COMFORT, SPORT, SPORT+ and ECO PRO modes using the large rocker switch on the center console. Affected parameters include the tuning of the throttle response, power steering boost assistance, shock absorbers, automatic transmission shift characteristics and – if equipped - roll stabilization and Integral Active Steering. In SPORT+ mode, the Dynamic Traction Control mode of the standard Dynamic Stability Control system is activated, raising the thresholds for stability intervention in the most sport-oriented driving circumstances.

The new ECO PRO mode, meanwhile, supports an extra-efficient and economy-conscious driving style. It does this by changing the accelerator mapping so that the same pedal travel delivers less power than in the standard mode. Also in this mode, the automatic transmission control strategy is modified so as to upshift sooner and to delay downshifts, while intelligent energy and climate management reduces the mechanical power consumption and also the consumption of electrical systems such as heated mirrors and seats. But the biggest potential for improving fuel economy comes from the driver's own personal driving habits. Special displays in the instrument cluster let the driver know by how much the driving range is being extended, show fuel consumption history, or, with reference to the specific driving situation, provide tips and incentives on how to develop a more economy-conscious driving style. ECO PRO mode allows average fuel consumption to be reduced by up to 20%, with a corresponding increase in driving range.

Design: Athletic elegance, natural sportiness.
The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe again heralds the arrival of an exceptionally sporty and exclusive 4-seater in the premium coupe segment. The new model's extra length and width over its 2 door model combine with its low height (2.8 inches lower than a 5 Series) to produce a strikingly low-set and powerful design. This new interpretation of the traditional BMW Coupe proportions is embellished by lines and surfaces inspired by the movement of waves. Flowing lines and harmonious curves create a feeling of athletic grace which underline the opulent character and elegant appearance of the four-door BMW.

The expressive front end is dominated by the large and slightly forward-slanting BMW kidney grille. The grille emphasizes the car's sporting pedigree with a broad, flat design, and creates a visual connection with the engine nestling behind. The kidney grille slats, angled slightly towards the top, lend additional emphasis to the front end's "shark nose" character. The contour lines of the hood converge towards the kidney grille, forming a V-shape which is continued by the contours of the headlights, kidney and wide air intake to give a road-focused look.

Powerfully flared wheel arches and the LED foglamps, placed well to the outside, accentuate the width of the front end. The lower air intake is split into three sections by model-specific L-shaped electroplated bars, which pick up the contours of the hood lines and BMW kidney grille to add extra intensity to the road-focused stance of the front end.

High-visibility innovation: Adaptive LED Headlights.

The new Gran Coupe is equipped with Adaptive Xenon headlights as standard. An accentuating trim element cuts across the top of the hallmark BMW twin round headlights to produce the purposeful look familiar from other BMW models. The optional Adaptive LED Headlights provide a fresh take on this established feature. The Adaptive LED Headlights for low beam and high beam contain LED light rings for the parking lights and daytime running lights, which are flattened on the lower edge and overlapped at their top edge by an accent light – also featuring LEDs. The result is a stunning, distinctively BMW showcase for the innovative light technology. In addition, they also generate the low beam and high beam light from the two light rings. The light sources are horizontal LED ribs positioned in the center of the light rings. The brand's hallmark twin round headlight look is therefore expressed even more strikingly - not only with the daytime running lights switched on, but also when the headlights are activated in the dark.

However, the Adaptive LED Headlights are about more than just looking good; they also ensure the driver has optimum visibility. Their bright white light provides a bright and even illumination of the road ahead. From a color perspective, the light comes much closer to natural daylight than that created by conventional halogen or xenon headlights, lending even reflective objects far greater contrast. The cornering element of the Adaptive LED Headlights is also tailored to the car's speed, steering angle and yaw rate, allowing the pivot of the headlights to adapt automatically to the line of the corner. Meanwhile, a light source positioned specially in the headlight housing generates the cornering light which, at low speeds, ensures illumination of the road surface in the direction the car is turning. LED technology is also deployed for the turn signal indicators, each of which consists of eight LED units arranged in a row underneath the light rings. As well as enhancing visibility in the dark, the Adaptive LED Headlights also significantly improve the signaling effect of the car's lights.

Side view: Elegant roofline, powerfully curved surfaces.

With its long, powerfully contoured hood, set-back passenger compartment, long wheelbase and short overhangs, the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe presents a fresh take on the hallmark BMW proportions. The Gran Coupe's distinctive appearance is dominated by its four-door layout, longer wheelbase than other BMW 6 Series models and likewise longer passenger compartment. The low, elegantly stretched roof line, which flows smoothly into the rear end, is a similarly eye-catching and distinctive feature of the new model's silhouette.

The combination of sportiness, style and luxury is particularly clear when viewed from the side. Longer side window surfaces than those found on the two-door BMW 6 Series models hint at the extra space available in the rear compartment. Side windows extending far back into the C-pillar give the passenger compartment the low-slung, stretched look typical of Coupes. The more generous greenhouse also allow light to flood the interior, further enhancing the feeling of space inside and all-round visibility for the rear passengers. High-quality Chrome Line Exterior surrounds for the side windows complement the coupe style window line. The hallmark BMW Hofmeister kink at the transition to the C-pillar is given an extra touch of style in the form of etched "Gran Coupe" model lettering set against a sporty texture in the rear section of the side window.

Powerfully flowing surfaces – which open out as they extend back from the front end and stretch over the full length of the body before feeding into the muscular rear end – give the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe a naturally sporty look. The character line streaming out from the gill on the front wheel arch takes in the door handle and runs the full length of the car, emphasizing the athletic elegance of its side view. Around the rear wheels, the surfaces below the character line push outwards, enhancing the impression of a powerful car with a strong, assured stance on the road. Plus, the light surfaces generated above the rear wheel arches draw further attention to the wide track and the power being channelled through the rear wheels.

Another character line, emerging from the curvature of the front wheel arch, drops down between the gill feature and the door, before levelling out and extending horizontally to the rear. The unbroken shadow surface above the side sill emphasises the car's muscular stance from the side.

The rear-end design: horizontal lines and clean surfaces.

Clearly structured surfaces and horizontal lines add further presence to the car's powerful rear end, which acts as a pointer to the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe's impressive roadholding and the sporting nature of the vehicle concept as a whole. The lines of the rear end become noticeably broader as they blend into the wheel arches bulge. All of which gives the rear view an extremely low visual center of gravity. The conspicuously flared wheel arches spotlight the car's wide track and underline the horizontally structured character of the rear. The trunk lid and rear fascia both have flatter surfacing than their counterparts on the other BMW 6 Series models. The more clearly sculpted sill emphasises the overall volume of the rear end and brings striking details such as the rear lights and exhaust tailpipes more clearly into view.

The two-part, L-shaped rear lights share the contours of the car's BMW 6 Series siblings and each use a pair of LED light strips to generate the distinctive night-time look of a BMW. The third brake light is integrated into the roof and stretches the full length of the rear window.

Interior with BMW's traditional driver-oriented cockpit.

The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe reveals the driver-focused cockpit design typical of the brand and a luxurious ambience for all those on board. The central section of the instrument panel is angled slightly towards the driver and the gear selector for the automatic gearbox, the Driving Experience Control switch and the activation button for the parking brake are all positioned on the surface of the center console which opens out towards the driver.

The standard Navigation System Professional and iDrive operating system come with 10.2-inch high definition display bordered by a galvanised chrome surround.

Long horizontal lines extending all the way through the interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe create a visual link with the second row of seats, emphasising the size of the interior. The elegant lines of the door trim, familiar from the other BMW 6 Series models, continue into the rear compartment, incorporating the B-pillar as a design element along the way. The sweeping design of the door panels flows harmoniously from the front doors via the B-pillars to the rear doors. The center console also stretches through to the rear. Precise contours help to create an intriguing contrast with the interior's soft, curvaceous surfaces, producing a vibrant and dynamic collage of forms.

The waistline surfaces of the doors form a subtly dynamic wedge shape, which extends into the luggage compartment cover. The dynamic character of the door surface design generates a feeling of depth which envelops the passengers in their seats, while the interplay of convex and concave surfaces evokes a sense of exclusive security.

Sporting Character and generous rear space.
The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe offers a driving experience defined by sportiness and luxury, and enhanced by a specially generated ambience. The line of the roof pillars reproduces the car's arching roof form inside the car. In the rear compartment, the enveloping interior typical of a Coupe and comfortable seats offer excellent lateral support combined with generous freedom of movement and good visibility out of the car.

Its interior offers individually tailored seats for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. High-quality materials, carefully coordinated colors and meticulously sculpted surfaces combine to produce an ambience defined by luxury, sweeping style and Teutonic functionality. A hallmark BMW element of the interior design is the driver-oriented cockpit layout. The central section of the instrument panel, containing the iDrive system's Central Display, the air vents and the controls for the audio system and air conditioning, are all angled slightly towards the driver. Added to which, the gearshift lever and the switches for the parking brake and Driving Dynamics Control are located on a surface that opens out towards the driver and is set lower than the front passenger side of the center console.

The front passenger area is bordered by a surface curving elegantly from the armrest over the side edge of the center console, upwards and outwards into the instrument panel and then horizontally into the door trim. This provides a harmonious surround for the front passenger area, creating a feeling of exclusive security. The contour of the rear waistline surface, which extends slightly into the interior between the head restraints, highlights the individual seat layout of the rear.

The black-panel instrument cluster of the Gran Coupe combines the traditional sports car circular instruments with state-of-the-art display technology. The Navigation system, telephone and entertainment functions are operated using the iDrive control system, whose Central Display boasts an innovative design. The on-board monitor takes the form of a freestanding display with a flatscreen look. The high definition display measures 10.2 inches across and features a high-quality galvanized chrome surround. The shallow depth of the display gives it a modern character. Trans-reflective technology ensures the display remains easy-to-read in bright sunlight. The new arrangement of the Central Display – which now reaches further into the passenger compartment –influences the architecture of the instrument panel, which rises steeply in front of the driver and front passenger. This impression is further enhanced by the structure of the door trim panels. Their surfaces have a powerfully taut look and, like the black waistline surface, pull in and rise up to create a smooth transition into the instrument panel, giving the interior the effect of wrapping around the driver and front passenger.

The optional Luxury Seating Package adds ventilated multi-contour, active seats, sunshades on both the rear side and rear windows and a four zone climate control system with additional controls located between the rear seats. While the Gran Coupe is primarily designed as a four seater, a fifth person can be accommodated in the rear compartment.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe can be ordered in a choice of nine metallic exterior paint shades and three non-metallic colors. Other exclusive paint finishes are available as part of the BMW Individual range and in conjunction with the M Sport package. The colors and materials available for the interior, meanwhile, have been selected to enhance the feeling of elegant sportiness and luxury, and can be tailored to the customer's personal style. The standard Dakota leather can be ordered in a choice of three colors, the optional Exclusive Nappa leather is available in four different shades and extended Merino leather is available in five varieties (in combination with the Individual Composition or M Sport Packages). The instrument panel, door trim and center console are also finished in Nappa leather with contrasting stitching when the Nappa Leather option is selected. Customers can also choose from four interior trim variants and optional ceramic applications for the gear selector, iDrive Controller and other controls. Additional exclusive trims are available as part of the BMW Individual range and in conjunction with the M Sport package.

M Sport package and BMW Individual range available from launch.

An M Sport package developed specially for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is available from the launch of the new car. Among the features included are an M aerodynamics package with uniquely designed front fascia, side skirts and rear fascia. The M Sport package also includes exhaust tips in black chrome, black-painted brake callipers, LED foglamps, a sports exhaust system for the BMW 650i Gran Coupe and 19-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design. 20-inch light-alloy wheels in M double-spoke design are also available as a package upgrade. Customers ordering the M Sport package may also opt for the M paint finishes Carbon Black metallic and Imola Red non-metallic.

The sporting theme continues inside the car in the form of special M Alcantara/leather sports seats with blue contrast stitching, an M leather steering wheel with multifunction buttons and gearshift paddles, and aluminium hexagon interior trim. Plus, the M Sport package adds door sill finishers sporting the M logo and an M driver's footrest to the mix.

Also available from launch is the BMW Individual range of products, which allows customers to tailor the exterior and interior of their BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe precisely and exclusively to their personal style. The four BMW Individual paint shades are joined in the range by BMW Individual special paint finishes and a selection of matt paint finishes. For example, the BMW Individual matt finish Frozen Bronze metallic is available exclusively for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. BMW Individual light-alloy wheels in V-spoke design can be specified in 19 and 20-inch format. Those looking to give the interior of their car a particularly exclusive aura, meanwhile, may like to add BMW Individual fine-grain Merino full leather trim, an Alcantara BMW Individual roof liner, BMW Individual interior strips and the BMW Individual wood inlay for the steering wheel.

One of the highlights of the BMW Individual range of interior options is the Opal White full-leather trim specially developed for the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe, combined with the interior color Amaro Brown. Here, the leather-covered instrument panel and Alcantara BMW Individual roof liner are also presented in Amaro Brown. The selection of materials, combinations of colors and a quality of workmanship showcase the exclusive character of the BMW Individual range. White contrast stitching for the instrument panel, armrest and door trim match the Opal White seats and door panels, while Amaro Brown seat stitching and piping complements the effect on the seats and door panels. In addition, BMW Individual Ash Grain White fine wood trim adds a particularly high-quality touch to the interior and fits in seamlessly with the overall color concept.

All the items in the BMW Individual range can also be ordered as individual options. And the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe is also available with a BMW Individual composition of products in a perfectly judged combination of colors and materials.

New lightweight technology, comprehensive safety equipment.

The new BMW Gran Coupe is fitted with newly developed lightweight seats with an integrated seatbelt system and standard 20-way multi-contour adjustability and adjustable lumbar support. Optionally, the Luxury Seating Package adds front multi-Contour ventilated seats and active fatigue reduction feature. All seat variants come with crash-activated anti-whiplash head restraints.

The range of standard safety equipment also includes front airbags, head-thorax side airbags integrated into the seat frame, three-point automatic belts for all seats, belt force limiters and front belt pre-tensioners and ISOFIX child seat mounts in the rear.

Carefully researched advances in materials and development of the car's load-bearing structure have significantly enhanced the body's construction in terms of the agility and safety it offers. In the interests of perfect balance, the doors, hood and front spring mounts are all aluminum, while the front fenders and trunklid are made from reinforced composite.

Cutting-edge features from BMW ConnectedDrive.
The new BMW 650i Coupe is available with a great variety of driver assistance systems and mobility services from BMW ConnectedDrive. The comprehensive Driver Assistance Package includes Lane Departure Warning, Active Blind Spot Detection, Rear and Top View cameras, Parking Assistant, and the new three-dimensional, full-color Head-Up Display that premiered in the 6 Series Convertible last year. Also available are BMW's Night Vision with Pedestrian Detection and Active Cruise Control with stop-and-go capability.

HiFi stereo system.
The standard HiFi audio system in the new Gran Coupe comes with an HD Radio receiver, MP3-compatible CD drive, AUX-IN connection, and a HiFi loudspeaker system with nine speakers. The available Premium Sound Package adds SiriusXM satellite radio with a 1-year subscription, iPod and USB adapter, and the Premium HiFi system comprised of 12 loudspeakers and a digital amplifier. It features DIRAC signal processing and model-specific equalizing.

Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System delivers an unparalleled audio experience.
When it comes to delivering audio pleasure of the highest order, the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System designed especially for the new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe hits all the right notes. Jointly developed by the Danish audio specialists and BMW, this system produces an exceptionally natural sound from 16 speakers distributed around the cabin. It is a fully active system featuring digital signal processing, which means the two bass speakers, seven mid-range speakers and seven tweeters all have individual amplifiers. This technology enables the targeted modification of any sound reflections inside the vehicle. The Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System uses Dirac Dimensions™ technology to recreate the acoustics of a reference listening room in the passenger compartment. All vehicle occupants therefore enjoy the same high-quality sound stage wherever they are sitting.

The electrical signals are converted into precisely defined sound waves using neodymium magnet drivers, and the mid-range speakers feature extremely stiff Hexacone diaphragms. The outstanding quality of the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System is underlined by exclusive design features. The form and color of the advanced all-aluminum speaker grilles have been tailored precisely to the interior design of the new Gran Coupe. The special perforation pattern of the grilles is created using a very sophisticated drilling technique. The grille mounts are not visible from the outside, ensuring that the grilles stand out from their surroundings by appearing to float in a slightly raised position above the surface. This exclusive ambience is further enhanced by a discreet lighting effect, which showcases the contours of the sound sources with a subtly impressive effect. The B&O Acoustic Lens Technology element in the center of the instrument panel area adds both a visual feature and is an acoustic innovation. As soon as the audio system is activated, the central element containing the integrated mid-range speaker pops up, prompting the tweeter lens to be extended at the same time. The tweeter lens distributes its signals evenly at 180 degrees throughout the interior. This extraordinarily harmonious horizontal dispersion of sound is achieved through the special design of the lens, which also minimizes unwanted vertical sound dispersion.

Industry leading new-generation Head-Up Display.
The new BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe can be equipped with the most advanced Head-Up Display system in the premium segment. By projecting important information onto the windshield, directly in the driver's line of sight, the Head-Up Display minimizes distraction from the road and traffic. This latest-generation system brings a further improvement in display quality: the symbols are projected as three-dimensional graphics and in ultra-clear resolution onto the windshield. Full-color capability makes the road sign symbols even more realistic. At the same time the Head-Up Display is now able to present a wider range of information. Depending on vehicle specification, guidance information supplied by the Navigation system, Check Control messages, status messages from the Lane Departure Warning System and warnings from the BMW Night Vision system can all be shown in the Head-Up Display. The positioning of the messages on the windshield is highly ergonomic, so that drivers are aware of them without having to refocus or take their eyes off the road.

The intensity of the projection automatically adjusts to the ambient light level, and the brightness setting can be adjusted via the iDrive menu. The driver can also choose what information will appear in the Head-Up Display in addition to road speed and warnings from the driver assistance systems.

Rear-View, Top View, and Side View Cameras.
To supplement the standard Park Distance Control, which uses ultrasonic sensors to monitor distance from objects in front or behind, the Gran Coupe also features a standard rear-view camera. The camera is integrated in the trunklid under the BMW "roundel" badge, which protects it from dirt. When the rear-view camera is activated, the roundel badge pivots up out of the way to expose the camera lens. The perspective-corrected color images are relayed to the Central Display. Superimposed on the images are interactive tracking lines which indicate the optimal steering angle for parking, as well as the tightest turning circle.

The optional Top View system with Side View provides an even more comprehensive picture. In addition to the rear-view camera and the PDC sensors, this system also uses a fish-eye camera in each of the side mirrors. The data acquired by Top View is relayed to a central computer which generates a bird's eye view of both vehicle and surroundings and presents the image in the Central Display. This view allows the driver to maneuver precisely in confined spaces.

The Side View function uses two cameras integrated in the front fenders to provide an improved view of cross-traffic at speeds below 10mph. These images are relayed to the Central Display where they may give the driver an early idea of what is happening on the road to the left and right of the car when pulling out from narrow and concealed gateways or car park exits.

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Bentley Mulsanne ultimate passion

Although emerging over 2 years, but the name remains Bentley Mulsanne ultimate passion of the faithful car.

Factory for approximately $ 300,000, Bentley Mulsanne when arriving to Vietnam will be priced at about $ 1 million. Let reporters Automotive experience a day with this super luxurious car on the streets of Hanoi.

Mulsanne - the same street, "the death" of F1 solution

Mulsanne created to replace the current ultra-luxury sedan's, Bentley Arnage, one of the leading super-luxury sedan in the world. Mulsanne larger, more advanced, more luxurious, more modern and powerful than the Arnage, Mulsanne, but not much more expensive than the Arnage. It brings a classic beauty and modern mix of both interior and exterior.

To develop a bigger car that still retains the character and lovely sports bold spirit of the Arnage is not easy. With great effort, the designer created the Mulsanne is total harmony between sport and luxury of a Bentley firm, a design classic appearance, but still very modern.

Mulsanne own designs bring many traditional features, inspired by Bentley 8L 1930, the product of the owner-founder of WOBentley, Bentley is also very "pure" Rolls-Royce before it was acquired in 1931 . Notably, at that time, Bentley 8L only produce 100 units, the dominant form than any Rolls-Royce does. The time now Volkswagen-owned Bentley, Rolls-Royce owned by BMW.

Bentley Mulsanne, this name is set to celebrate its glorious past of the origin of fog in the car world speed racing. If a huge fan of F1 racing, you will hear of more or less Mulsanne Straight - the same street, "the death" of Le Mans where the Bentley racing engine can reach maximum speed. And this is associated with at least five of their victory.

Reportedly, Mulsanne was "burning row" before production, although Bentley is attempted to increase production capacity from 200 units in 2010 to $ 800 units in 2011. But remember, each Mulsanne takes about 86 hours to paint and a skilled artisan could only complete half the Mulsanne wheel after a day of hard work.

Exterior: Traditional and Modern

For obvious importance that "Prince" Made in the fog towards Mulsanne is none other than the ultra-luxury sedan, the massive Rolls Royce. So, also easy to see why Bentley Mulsanne leave a strong impression on the body "oversized" compared with other family members.

With an overall length of 5,575 mm, wheelbase 3,226 mm, width 1,926 mm and 1,521 mm high, neat Mulsanne than direct competitors is the Phantom, with an overall length of 5816 mm. Maybe we should put Mulsanne same category with the Rolls Royce Ghost will be more reasonable, although the price of the Mulsanne is marginally better.

You will still immediately recognize when a transient Bentley Mulsanne in the details brought "pure DNA" of the luxury brand from the UK, as simple as honeycomb grille, round headlamps, the lights oval. But not so the Mulsanne was dissolved in the other Bentley models.

Mulsanne carry on his subtle curves and sexy hip car, combined with the sugar glider sport in the bonnet. Skillful hands of the designer Bentley has created strange feeling, "unique" that only new Mulsanne, which as a silky ribbon in the wind meandering layout that still coherent, solid it.

Two round headlights on each side should be allocated independently on each puzzle piece by stamping line extends from column A and prior to the end block. The same glide path helps the bonnet of the Mulsanne can be constructed at right angles like Rolls Royce models that did not make it awkward, it still brings different characteristics. Headlight system consists of four fully automatic lights are arranged with small lights on the outside while the center LED lights inside the same S1 Continental Flying Spur 1995.

One of the highlights of the Bentley "big size" This is the large grille than the Arnage, honeycomb mesh offers classical nuances. Also, can not fail to mention the large inlet cavity similar to the Bentley Continental Speed. Two fog lamps integrated into the deck before the wind. By processing this ingenuity, maintaining traditional requirements, both new wind blowing in, Mulsanne owns more eye-catching front, bearing the familiar features from Flying Spur.

Especially the "winged B word" horizontal front porch roof screen can also make "invisible" to the same hood as a symbol of the Rolls Royce Spirit of Ecstasy. Ministry of alloy wheels are designed more sophisticated, inspired by flowers tomorrow. Mulsanne have two options for size 20 and 21inch wheels, the Mulsanne that we are experiencing is equipped with a 20inch.

Body along the elegant curves and lines that make nearly flawless features and classic design of this first-class sedan. There are plenty of chrome detailing around the Mulsanne, even braces turning lights on mirrors, windows wheels, chrome door handles as well. These signs show that you are contemplating a luxury sedan, although you can also see the Bentley Arnage. However, the Mulsanne has reached new heights, all the lines and details are set according to the previous map, and are combined together skillfully helps a superior car Arnage.

To contrast with the style of the front, the back of the Mulsanne "conservative" retained almost intact design language of the brand. I will still see the rectangular tail lights are three stylized oval LED headlights and a pair of stainless steel exhaust oval "suyet tone tone."

Bentley offers customers 114 paint colors ranging from slippery substances in the same color paint, satin varnish to match the colors together. However, if customers have special requirements in addition to the existing paint, Bentley is ready to meet your needs. Currently, in Vietnam also appears that some of the Bentley Mulsanne with different colors. Separate "wings" of the mouse coat color Mulsanne we directly back to driving a personal impression. Colors and smooth as the "makeover" by slightly iridescent effect under sunlight.

Interior regal

Mulsanne attraction that seems to radiate from the sexy new pattern emerged just about to give you more interested in a sedan "big Bentley" This only. Automotive Reporter sure you will like us, are overwhelmed when entering the "castle" Mulsanne by mobile detail refine this process and its subtle.

To create a true level, Bentley has applied the technology of hand-peak to create space within the Mulsanne. Experience accumulated from years of Bentley brand are present in each centimeter of the interior of this ultra-luxury cars. From the border lines on the steering wheel in leather is sewn by hand, to the more wood tiles also by the engineers and artisans executing the details closely.

"Implementation Manual" is key to building up the brand new standard for Bentley. To meet customer requirements, a research group also extended to the smell of leather furniture. That led Bentley to return to a traditional tanning process is very complicated to create specific aroma, like a good message that you are experiencing the same car to come from England.

Soft cream tones with mild faint scent of leather as an invitation hard to resist when you open the door to set foot inside the Mulsanne. Everywhere appeared the light of the more glittering chrome, stainless steel or wood-paneled elegant walnut brown quickly overwhelmed by all the driver's mind, creating excitement to learn interesting things later.

When you sit under a stable seat for perfect support, even set ie I have noticed the steering wheel of the Mulsanne multitasking. 4-spoke design with a modern, familiar Bentley logo in the center, leather-wrapped steering wheel and wood-paneled meticulously, with integrated audio controls, phone connection, control functions the voice. Meanwhile, the cluster center the display slightly bring traditional, two main clock with chrome rim displays your speed and RPM display with trip reports. Meanwhile, fuel and temperature clock comes back on the center dashboard panel to create a breakthrough.

Direction to the left eye, dashboard panel with clusters of Mulsanne control center is designed in classic. Wood Material exquisite walnut brown background mainstream, middle panel dashboard is a central control screen touch 8 inch, two-door wind round chrome rim symmetrical sides. It could be shown, Bentley design used throughout the circle forming the exterior and interior, such as round headlights, doors, wind round, round the clock display, control buttons and rounded.

The wind in the interior doors with the classic design reduces drag and release to increase wind power was undeniable "learn" the Rolls Royce tradition. Multimedia system on Mulsanne enough to meet the standards of a ultra-luxury sedan, including hard drives up to 60GB of memory to store movies, music, personal documents, satellite navigation systems and support Bluetooth and USB. In particular, high-end speaker system 20 Naim's reputation 2.020W capacity will contribute to creating the most realistic sound to help Mulsanne deserves the title "mobile cinema". All seats have power adjustment feature, a drying and massge. Particularly the front seat can remember 12 different positions.

Similar to the case of Rolls Royce, the rear is more than special interest, because the owner of the vehicle will normally select this position. Experience the feel of this luxury car, is not wrong. The two rear seats are not confined on the Mulsanne, even about to bare feet and more widely around the front seat. On two separate hands spleen seat is fully integrated controls, air conditioning, audio and seat functions. Furthermore, the rear passengers are also equipped with a remote control for multimedia systems forward.

A foldable desk arbitrary compact behind the front seat, two cup holder below the spleen hand Mulsanne center easily turn into a mobile office for the boss. Of course, Bentley can not neglect safety equipment system for the Mulsanne. These include systems such as PDC distance control, antilock braking system ABS, control ESP Electronic balance, slip resistant VSD systems, sensors around the car with 10 airbags to ensure safety passengers in a crash.

Operation Sports

If you want a perfect trip, the Rolls-Royce and Bentley can meet your needs. But if you want a car with the ability to correct responses, and an impressive performance, Mulsanne is a great choice. Bentley Mulsanne Vietnam's advantage is attributable to a drive system perfectly, but the "heart" is the engine capacity of 6.75 liter V8.

Press V8 under the bonnet of the Bentley Mulsanne can produce 512 horsepower output, torque 1020 Nm. Combining the gearbox ZF 8-speed automatic, V8 engine helps the car can accelerate from 0 to 100km / h in 5.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 296 km / h, according to the manufacturer's parameters. Mulsanne on occasion to experience the streets of Hanoi, traffic conditions do not allow us to endorse a remarkable acceleration of this sedan.

According to Bentley, Mulsanne fuel efficient than 15% compared with the equivalent Bentley, only stood at 16.7 lit/100km. Thus, in theory, comparison with Rolls Royce Ghost 6.6L V12 engine capacity of 563 horsepower, 780Nm of torque, Bentley Mulsanne not take power consumption poor but superior.

The car was pretty good sound, even running up to speed 130km / h is only heard small vu vu. This impression appears when you press the engine, the engine just gently shake it back to the state calm to throw away. Despite weighing 2.5 tons, Bentley Mulsanne has convinced me with the ability of its employees go fast, you will not feel the delay in this station.

The car was later driven to the control of a vehicle weighing 2.6 tons is relatively easy. Mulsanne is also equipped with three driving modes: Bentley, Sport and Comfort. The hand brake control buttons or select three operating modes, including Custom, Sport, Comfort are located around the gear shift is easy to select observations.

More impressively, Bentley Mulsanne clearly shows the effect of structural bodywork perfect balance. Try performing the old times, you can verify this. Mulsanne not thrown many rear even if you disable balancing ESP electronic vehicle while driving in Sport mode. Characteristics of the Mulsanne height also helps vehicles better traction.

Video:
Bentley Mulsanne Press Launch Film


First Drive: 2011 Bentley Mulsanne

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New Limited Edition Honda CR-Z 'Label α' for Japan

New Limited Edition Honda CR-Z 'Label α' for Japan
Japanese buyers are no strangers to special edition versions with extremely subtle modifications, the newest one coming from Honda with its CR-Z 'Label α' model, which goes on sale this week and will be available for a limited release until May 31.
What makes the 'Label α' special in Honda's eyes is the bespoke burgundy pearl metallic finish on the outside with a matching interior color for the seats, door panels and the stitching on the leather steering wheel and manual gearbox shifter.

The hybrid sports hatch also gets alloy wheels and aluminum sport pedals.

The CR-Z 'Label α' will be offered with a CVT (continuously variable transmission) or a six-speed manual gearbox with pricing in Japan set at 2,510,000 yen (about €24,850 and US$32,150) for both models.

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