irst of all, our heartfelt apologies for not being able to update the site on time! We know it would be difficult to believe for most of you, but it wasn’t our day at work for the XUV500’s launch. First of all, both the SLR cameras we carried to the event refused to click images, and kept flashing something which read ‘Error 99’ – something to do with the lenses we guess. The cameras shot images at will, letting us have one picture in 10 attempts. Later, the laptop refused to budge, and a few hours later when it did, the internet dongle refused to connect. We were jinxed, in the truest sense of the word. All we could do was tweet, and update our FB accounts with images. But that doesn’t help much, does it? We are back from Mahindra & Mahindra Chakan facility now, and here we have our review. Hope you like it.

Design

The XUV500 is a well proportioned vehicle which looks athletic and sharp from plenty of angles and in plenty of places. Mahindra & Mahindra insists that the new SUV’s design has taken inspiration from cheetah, known to be the fastest animal on land. The jaw-like front grille, the paw-styled handles, the pouncing cheetah body line and the haunches inspired by those of a cheetah are some of the most prominent cues taken from the body of the magnificent beast. The XUV500’s taut, angular lines, small overhangs, a swooping roofline, flared wheel arches and well judged proportions really make it an interesting work in automotive design. It has the zing to turn heads, especially when looked upon head on. There are, however elements which still make evident Mahindra’s newness to the world of evolved automotive design. The XUV500, although a good effort overall lacks the panache and refinement that you’d expect from a product rolling out of a seasoned European design house. The design bit is overdone in places, more evidently so around the front grille, below the headlamps and at the rear.

Starting from the front end, the height of the bonnet’s surface, the width, the track, the stance, everything looks good. Those twin barrel projector headlamps look extremely well designed and go a long way in lending the XUV500 an air of sophistication. The array of LED lamps behind the headlamps looks nice both during the day and in the night when they are lit up in all their glory.  The lower bumper and the fog lamps too have been beautifully executed. The cuts, the creases, everything looks nice, except for that overdose of the honeycomb mesh effect. The two black faux honeycomb-mesh surfaces on the flanks of the bumper look rather unwarranted and make the front of the car look busy and overly done. Mahindra could very well have done without these inserts, as they don’t do much to the look of the otherwise fantastic front, except adding an air of juvenility. A plain bumper or just the lower one of the two black inserts would have given the XUV500’s front a more sophisticated look. In its present form, it’s too loud.

In profile the XUV500 impresses again. The surfaces on the vehicle are quite complex and a carmaker out to build a low cost vehicle would never dare to incorporate such intricate detailing on its vehicle. This is an indicator of the fact that the XUV500 is a full-fledged effort from Mahindra, a product which they have put their heart and soul into – no cutting corners here! To me, the most impressive part about the Mahindra XUV500’s profile is the central portion, where two parallel running creases dip towards the front and lend the XUV500 a front forward and ‘in motion’ stance. The upper crease, however, spoils the flow as it meets the front fender and points skywards before blending with the curvature of the wheel arch. The top crease may have been left dipping, and blending into the surface just before the fender.

All is well at the rear haunches too, before a crease emanating from the tail-lamp meets them and again creates a rather unsophisticated and complex merging point of lines and curves just above the rear wheel arch. It’s the capability of seamless blending curves and lines that makes the better known design houses stand apart from the not-so-honed ones, and the experience of Mahindra is rather evident in such places.

The inexperience is even more evident as you move towards the rear of this car. The tail-lamp, to start with isn’t definitely the most tasteful designs we have seen. The bottle-like shape of the car when seen from behind with the lamps bending into the body at the bottom doesn’t look very stylish. It does create an impression of sturdiness and robustness though. The area below the rear windscreen again is overdone, too busy, trying too hard and failing in the process. Although I hate to mention it, but the black insert above the rear number plate carrying the Mahindra emblem, together with curvy crease that emanates from it looks like a hybrid of the moustaches of Hitler and the Air India’s Maharaja Mascot. Funny is the word.

Overall, the design of the XUV500 still is a quantum leap for Mahindra.  It’s a vehicle with a contemporary design and would be saleable in a wide spectrum of markets. The quality of paint, thanks to the company’s state of the art paint shop at Chakan is top notch. The panel gaps are consistent and minimal. The overall fit & finish is in a different league, especially knowing the turnout of the Scorpio and Xylo.  The XUV500 may have its highs and lows, but it comes across as an impressive package. Critics like us may point out flaws, but overall, the XUV500’s design will appeal to every buyer in the SUV segment. The vehicle has its own character, and one it could be proud of. It will stand in company of the likes of the CR-V and Captiva with pride,

Angeles, CA –Lexus unveiled a one-off example of its IS 300 luxury sport sedan powered by a 4.3-liter V8 engine from a Lexus GS 430 in November 2003. Seeking to demonstrate the potential of the IS 300, Lexus commissioned Rod Millen Special Vehicles (RMSV) to build the car. The resulting “IS 430″ has since completed its development program with RSMV and is now road-ready.

“We wanted to explore the performance possibilities of the IS 300,” said Lexus Group Vice President and General Manager Denny Clements. “The marriage of our 4.3-liter V8 with the sporty IS 300 creates a classic muscle car.”

The potent V8 engine was paired with a Getrag 6-speed manual transmission and lightweight flywheel, which drive the rear wheels through a stronger limited slip differential and GS 430 driveline components.

Total Performance Approach
The concept direction from Lexus required that handling be matched to the high-powered V8 while maintaining reasonable ride comfort and noise levels. TEIN springs and 16-way electronically adjustable shock absorbers work with the original IS 300 front suspension in addition to selected GS 430 rear suspension components, which help ensure durability against the higher torque of the 4.3-liter V8. Large, sticky Michelin Sport Cup tires on 18-inch Speed Star SSR alloy wheels put the power to the ground.

A similar approach was taken with the cooling system and brakes. A GS 430 radiator was fitted to provide ample cooling for the high-output engine. Large Brembo brakes with vented, cross-drilled rotors and four-piston aluminum calipers are there to arrest the newfound acceleration and speed of the IS 430.

“The standard IS 300 is a robust and well balanced sport sedan, so we thought it would respond well to the additional power of the Lexus V8 engine,” said Rod Millen, president of RSMV. “With a package of complementary modifications, it has exceeded our expectations.”

Although not a simple conversion, the V8 and 6-speed fit well within the compact IS 300 body structure. Curb weight is slightly higher than the standard IS, some of which is due to larger/stronger components needed to deal with the increased performance and some from the new audio/video system.

“Fitting the 4.3-liter V8 and six-speed manual transmission to the IS 300 was fairly straightforward,” said Millen. “The larger challenge was to develop an electronic interface that would allow the V8 engine to work with the manual transmission and IS 300 body – something it was never designed to do.”

RMSV’s engineering team met the challenge with expertise developed through years of successful racing and building special vehicles for military and automotive clients. They focused on designing the electronics interface while simultaneously working through the mechanical conversion and enhancements. Numerous parts were specifically fabricated for the IS 430 including stainless steel exhaust headers and dual exhaust system, transmission adaptor, engine and transmission mounts, air intake system, wire harnesses and fluid connectors.

“Next Generation” Entertainment System
Pushing the IS 300 performance envelope was not limited to vehicle dynamics. Lexus also wanted to discover the potential of what might be termed a “next generation” in-vehicle entertainment system. Lexus naturally turned to its premium audio systems partner, Mark Levinson®, whose system engineers were eager to gain experience with their advanced system development work and receive feedback from users in the field.

The goals for the experimental system were the introduction of a discrete multi-channel 7.1 surround sound experience suitable for automotive use, complete system integration of audio and video, and advancement of sonic performance beyond previous OEM premium systems.

The result of their vision is a 20-speaker/24-channel, 720-watt* audio/video system using a proprietary DVD video player and removable 6.5-inch wide-screen video display. This prototype Mark Levinson® system is well suited to the expanded performance of the IS 430.

Functional Aggression
To complete the package, Chip Foose from Foose Design was employed to give the IS 430 a more aggressive yet functional appearance. Foose used subtle upgrades including a Rhys Millen Racing front lip spoiler and side skirts with a black over red exterior color scheme that emphasizes the wedge profile of the tightly drawn IS body. A mesh grille and gray headlamp treatment is used up front, and the taillights and rear badging are modified for a simpler look at the rear. The

THE ALL-NEW SAAB 9-3 SPORT SEDAN: THE FIRST ARRIVAL IN THE NEW SAAB FAMILY
The all-new 2003 Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan is the first step in the biggest product development program in Saab’s history. It spearheads the arrival of an entirely new family of cars, each focused on meeting the particular requirements of a different niche in the market.
As Saab’s first contender in the premium compact sport sedan segment, the new 9-3 is dedicated to delivering a unique, fun-to-drive experience that promises to set new standards for the class.
Announcing the arrival of the new model, Saab Automobile President and CEO Peter Augustsson said, ‘This car offers a level of driver involvement and responsive performance never seen before from Saab. The integration of a fine-handling chassis with the new, refined powertrain delivers a true ‘fun-to-drive’ package.
‘It is a formula designed to appeal to young, premium-car buyers who place a priority on a rewarding driving experience, but who also want to express their individuality through choosing a distinctive, less commonplace brand.’
The coupe-like silhouette, with steeply raked windshield and rear window and short front and rear overhangs, communicates a strong, sporty stance, which is reinforced by negative wheel cambers. The overall look is designed to convey a sense of movement even when the car is stationary. The shape of the windows and the wedge-like profile also combine with the sleek integrated headlights and grille to give the car its distinctive Saab identity.
Excellent aerodynamics, including a highly competitive 0.28 drag coefficient resulting in low lift forces at the rear axle, improve high-speed stability and braking. Careful airflow management also benefits the driver by helping to prevent road grime building up on the side windows and taillights.
The new model comes with a choice of two new, 2.0L all-aluminum turbocharged engines, ranging in power from 175 to 210 hp. The front-wheel-drive transmissions include five- and six-speed manual gearboxes and a five-speed automatic with Saab Sentronic manual selection and the option of steering-wheel controls. There will be three ‘forms,’ or specification levels: Linear, Arc and Vector.
Compared to its predecessor, the new 9-3 offers more spacious accommodations, particularly for rear passengers, within the same overall length. Front and rear width is increased by 2.16 inches (55mm) and the wheelbase is 2.8 inches (71mm) longer.
It is price-positioned to compete with the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4 and Volvo S60. Sales start in October 2002.
Refined performance
Saab is a ‘center of expertise’ within GM for the development of turbocharged gasoline engines. The 2003 Saab 9-3′s new powertrain adds enhanced refinement and driveability to Saab’s traditional strengths of high torque for strong, mid-range pulling power. It also delivers a level of sporty performance in keeping with the chassis dynamics, further reinforcing the new car’s driver focus.
Saab developed and tuned two versions of the new turbo engine for 175 hp (badged 2.0t) and 210 hp (badged 2.0T) with high torque for confident passing. All internal components are unique to Saab. High-strength balance shafts and dual-mass flywheel offer greater running refinement.
Precise, highly sensitive throttle control, adaptive torque delivery and smooth power- on/power-off characteristics are benefits of the new Trionic-8 engine-management system, the latest version of Saab’s own 32-bit in-house system.
Updated five-speed (175 hp) and all-new six-speed (210 hp) Saab manual gearboxes are available. A new five-speed, adaptive automatic transmission with Saab Sentronic manual gear selection and optional steering-wheel controls is available.
Driver involvement
The new 9-3 is the product of the most exhaustive development program in chassis dynamics undertaken by Saab. The handling of the car, its sensitivity to driver inputs and a high degree of feedback all combine to deliver a level of driving involvement and pleasure that challenges the class benchmark.
The kinetics of the rear suspension are tuned for a unique rear-wheel-steer response for optimum handling and stability. The four-link independent rear suspension with high lateral stiffness adds stability and grip; longitudinal compliance enhances ride comfort. Front suspension is MacPherson struts with lower A-arms mounted on a hydroformed, rubber-isolated sub-frame.
The chassis features Saab-tuned ‘user-friendly’ ESP (Electronic Stability Program), EBD (Electronic Brake force Distribution), CBC (Cornering Brake Control) and TCS (Traction Control System) as standard features. Front and rear brake discs are larger than the previous model’s, varying in size, depending on specification level.
Driver adaptability
In addition to its driver-focused chassis dynamics and powertrain performance, the new 9-3 is also designed to adapt to a wide range of driver needs, establishing a close interaction with the driver.
A wide range of functions can be pre-set according to personal preference, including: anti-theft alarm, parking assistance, rain-sensitive wipers and automatic climate control.
The new Saab 9-3 features the most complete automotive systems use of fiber optics. With a signal capacity 50 times greater than conventional wire circuitry, fiber optics provide a high-speed platform for advanced in-car ‘infotainment.’
‘Linear’ features an understated interior with attractive leather upholstery and anthracite trim. ‘Arc’ adds more luxury, with 16-inch alloy wheels and leather interior with poplar wood trim. ‘Vector’ adds a sporty flair, with 17-inch alloy wheels and a sports leather interior with matte chrome trim. An optional package will be offered for the Linear form that includes 16-inch, 10-spoke alloy wheels, in-dash six-CD player, upgraded stereo system, power sunroof and driver’s seat, and lower-body color match trim.
Built around the driver
Consistent with all Saab vehicles, the new 9-3 is built from ‘the driver outwards.’ That means the cabin ergonomics, the instrumentation, the controls and the seating position are all developed from the driver’s perspective. And, the advanced safety features benefit all who use the car.
The instrument panel arcs around the driver, with a logical layout and a highly tactile feel to the controls. The steering wheel adjusts for both rake and reach, and green instrument illumination and the Night Panel function contribute to safe night driving.
The Saab Information Display (SID) is located on top of the fascia near the base of the windscreen, close to the driver’s natural field of vision. The screen shows radio settings and driver information.
Dozens of different crash configurations were carried out during development, utilizing Saab’s database of more than 6,000 real-life road accidents. Tests include truck-to-car side impacts, car-to-car frontal impacts with a closing speed of 74 mph and replica moose impacts.
Second-generation Saab Active Head Restraints (SAHR), pioneered by Saab, help prevent neck injury for front-seat occupants in rear-end impacts. Integrated into the seat backs, this safety system is improved for even quicker responsive action. Restraint systems include seat belt pre-tensioning and load-limiting for all outer seating positions, combined with dual-stage front air bags, seat-mounted side air bags and new side roof- rail air bags.

or this brand new AMG Mercedes-Benz SLS a developers grown as well as mounted the sports spoiler dress at a front as well as special diffuser fins on the back of the car. All brand new parts written by KICHERER are naturally done of high peculiarity carbon. A further highlight on the sports car have been a 3-part 20 inch RS-1 lightweight wheels. The classical double-spoke design harmonises ideally with a similarly classic sportscar conformation of a Kicherer Merhe Supersport will be rolling on 3-piece 20 inch RS-1’s which are very lightweight and will be powered by a tweaked version of the SLS’ V8. Power is expected to be around 620hp a 45-hp bump from stock form. And there’s even word of a ‘matte black foliation’ that’s supposed to help preserve the SLS’ factory paint. You could only guess how that’s going to turn out. Think along the lines of Michael Keaton’s Batmobile a smaller version of it, withcedes-Benz SLS

onda introduces a new concept electric vehicle EV Fit Los Angeles Auto Show 2010. In addition to plug-in hybrid vehicles, EV Concept Fit integral part of the network mobility as an electric Honda advanced environmental approaches to reducing CO2 emissions.

Backed by high density derived from fuel cells for electric vehicles FCX Clarity, Fit EV offers excellent performance with a top speed of 90 mph.
Fit achieve a driving range of EV Estimated cycles 100 miles for free with the U. S.EPA * LA4 town (70 miles, when the adjustment factor applied to the EPA). Driving range to maximize the use of innovative electric propulsion system adapted from the sport mode 3-hybrid 2011 Honda CR-Z.

Charge the battery can be completed in less than 12 hours using 120-volt power supply is conventional, and less than six hours using a 240 volt outlet. When introducing the Fit model EV production, it will be powered by lithium-ion rechargeable electric motor and coaxial.

Reduce EV Concept on display at the Los Angeles Auto Show has exclusive Haze Deep Blue Pearl exterior colors and five-spoke wheels made of aluminum alloy with blue inserts. Inside, the fabric bio-gray most environmentally friendly on the surface of seat available

lantra Touring GLS adds a new feature to build on Hyundai’s reputation for offering loads of standard equipment. The headlight welcome function works when the driver presses open on the remote keyless entry illuminating the headlights. This new convenience feature is helpful at night in crowded stadium parking lots. To help notify other drivers of an upcoming lane change, Hyundai has added “EZ Lane Change Assist” (one-touch triple turn signal stalks). Slight movement of this new stalk will cause the turn signals to blink three times and then automatically go off – an ideal feature for highway passing.

Elantra Touring GLS continues to offer standard air conditioning, power windows, heated mirrors, power door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm and plenty of storage compartments including a cooled glovebox. The Elantra Touring also offers standard advanced safety technologies including Electronic Stability Control (ESC).

For audiophiles, an integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers and iPod/USB/Auxiliary inputs is standard.

The optional Popular Equipment Package on the GLS adds new silver roof rails, a telescopic steering wheel, trip computer, steering wheel mounted audio controls, eight-way driver’s seat with lumbar support, dual illuminated vanity mirrors, sliding sunvisors, seatback pockets, retractable cargo cover, illuminated ignition and premium cloth interior. Cruise control is also standard on all GLS models equipped with automatic transmissions.

ELANTRA SE – ADDING A SPORTY FLAVOR

The sport-oriented SE adds all the equipment in the GLS Popular Equipment Package plus new standard leather seats, heated front seats, a power sunroof with tilt and slide functions, leather steering wheel and shift knob, B&M Racing sport shifter (M/T), fog lights and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45R17 tires.

DEVELOPMENT

The Elantra Touring, with its modern, sleek styling and fun-to-drive qualities, was developed by Hyundai in response to the growing demand for stylish and functional five-door vehicles. As with all Hyundai vehicles, the Elantra Touring was designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent quality standards in the industry, exemplifying Hyundai’s quality leadership position worldwide.

ASSERTIVE EXTERIOR DESIGN

Flowing curves and strong character lines highlight the broad stance and long wheelbase of the Elantra Touring. The clearly defined, unbroken, rising beltline unifies the vehicle’s functional proportions. The effect is an exciting shape that provides a dynamic impression of performance and capability. Elantra Touring has a low coefficient of drag for optimal fuel efficiency at highway speeds and minimal interior noise.

Up front, the pronounced dual air intakes flow smoothly into the hood and A-pillar lines. Sharp projection headlamps, available fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels complete the modern design.

ROOMY AND REFINED INTERIOR

The long wheelbase and generous width of the Elantra Touring, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. At 125.5 cubic feet, the Elantra Touring has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus cargo space) of any five-door in its class*. In fact, Elantra Touring’s cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, resulting in more cargo space than other five-doors in its class.

The clarity of the instruments, optional B&M Racing sport shifter (M/T) and tilt and telescopic steering wheel contribute to a superior driving experience. For extra clarity, Hyundai’s signature blue LCD lighting technology has been used for the central information display and gauge cluster. Two-tone beige interior trim, with special attention to the upholstery, delivers a premium feel. Black and beige are the two interior color choices.

The Elantra Touring was the first compact five-door to offer XM Satellite Radio® and iPod®/USB auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port not only does it play music through the vehicle’s six-speaker audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit or steering wheel audio controls rather than from the iPod itself. The center storage compartment location of the iPod/USB auxiliary inputs assures that iPods can be safely stowed out of sight.

INTELLIGENT ERGONOMICS

With its leading-edge designs, Hyundai has proven through the years that vehicles do not need to be large to feel spacious, nor carry a premium price when offering intelligently designed interior cabins. The Elantra Touring is just the latest expression of this thoughtful approach, incorporating a telescopic steering wheel, conveniently located steering wheel audio/cruise controls and column stalks, easy-to-reach heating and air conditioning knobs, as well as conveniently positioned power windows and mirror controls. Even the positioning and precise feel of the automatic gearshift has been optimized. The integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system, map pockets and other storage areas round out the conveniently and intelligently designed interior space.

Sporty front seats, designed to complement the driving dynamics of the vehicle, and carefully contoured rear seats, provide long distance comfort and support. Hyundai engineers focused not just on the seats’ form and function, but also on the stitching, materials and bolstering. The available eight-way driver’s seat includes height adjustment and lumbar support.

IMPRESSIVE PACKAGE EFFICIENCY

The Elantra Touring’s exterior dimensions (176.2 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 59.8 inches high) make it a great fit in the compact five-door segment, while its long wheelbase (106.3 inches) means that Elantra Touring offers class-leading interior volume. Every Elantra Touring has 60/40 split folding rear seats for added storage, functionality and practicality.

The Elantra Touring matches best-in-class passenger volume with best-in-class cargo capacity. Features include a useful 24.3 cubic feet of luggage space with rear seats upright and a cavernous 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. As in any Hyundai, the utility and convenience in the Elantra Touring has not been overlooked, with a stow-and-go removable luggage cover that stores conveniently out-of-site under the trunk area compartment. An optional restraining net is also offered. The available silver roof rails are designed to accommodate lifestyle oriented rack systems to take Elantra Touring’s utility to an even higher level.

The Elantra Touring includes a number of convenient and standard storage features, including a sunglass holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, dash storage, central console storage, front storage tray, and a cargo area under-floor storage. For tailgaters, the cargo area also has a 12-volt outlet, where the vehicle does not have to be turned on, for portable electronic devices.

ENGINE PERFORMANCE

Elantra Touring is powered by the same fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, in-line four-cylinder found in the Elantra sedan. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (and Continuously Variable Valve Timing () for a very broad power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle ith a manual transmission, the Elantra Touring’s EPA mileage is 23 mpg City and 31 mpg Highway. With the optional four-speed automatic transmission, the Elantra Touring’s EPA rating is 23 mpg City and 30 mpg Highway.

TRANSMITTING THE POWER

Hyundai understands that performance means more than just engine output, which is why transmission choices have been optimized for real driving satisfaction.

An ergonomically located gated gear shift controls the Elantra Touring’s four-speed automatic transmission delivering confident mode selection. A unique-in-segment optional B&M Racing sport shifter delivers smooth, short-throw shift control for the standard five-speed manual transmission.

AGILE STEERING, SUSPENSION AND BRAKING

The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers a dynamic driving experience. A MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have been fitted to perfectly complement the body structure’s high rigidity. Ventilated 11.8-inch front and solid 10.3-inch rear discs with ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) provide excellent stopping power with added handling control.

Elantra Touring delivers high performance steering and adds unique springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and dampers. Elantra Touring features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, a 39 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger front stabilizer bar (24 mm) and larger rear stabilizer bar (21mm) than the 2010 Elantra sedan. The 17-inch alloy wheels, with ultra-low profile tires, add visual impact and extra grip to the Elantra Touring’s sporty dynamics.

Elantra Touring’s steering character is another key driver of its sporty driving nature. Hyundai chassis engineers focused on delivering an agile feel, with direct responses to driver inputs. That spirit translates to a fun-to-drive character in everyday driving situations. And all drivers will appreciate Elantra Touring’s nimble turning diameter – at 34.2 feet it is better than Volkswagen Golf’s 35.7 feet and Toyota Matrix’s 36.0 feet.

ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES

Like every Hyundai, top-tier safety was a key development goal for the Elantra Touring, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. In terms of passive safety, it features dual front, side and curtain airbags, for a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. The Elantra Touring also features active front head restraints, seatbelt pretensioners and a seatbelt reminder. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 52 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Also according to the IIHS, active front head restraints improve rear crash protection.

These passive safety technologies are fully grounded in a state-of-the-art body structure, which includes deformable zones, occupant protection cell and three-way load distribution technology. Further rigidity has been achieved with reinforced A pillars, strengthened bulkhead, front and side members, and strengthened B

Crew Cab or Extended Cab? There are no wrong answers, just one brain-teasing decision to be made. That’s because the i-370 pickup is such a capable performer regardless of which configuration you choose. If comfort, convenience and added passenger room is right up your alley, five adult passengers can travel in style in the spacious i-370 Crew Cab, available in both 2WD and 4WD. When you want a more workmanlike ratio of cargo bed capacity to passenger room, the 2WD Extended Cab delivers the goods and still has room for up to five. Either way, you’ve arrived at a logical conclusion – for mid-size pickup value, the i-370 is the smart  mind’s truck of choice.

Lots of midsize trucks seat up to five passengers. But the i-370 pickup does it with a sense of style, spaciousness and versatility that you’ll appreciate every time you drive. For starters, you’ve got your choice of configurations. If you’re part of the off-highway crowd, you’ll enjoy added capability of the top-of-the-line 4WD Crew Cab. If you’re partial to the open road, you will find either the 2WD Crew Cab or 2WD Extended Cab to your liking. And with ingenious little extras like an available 60/40 split-bench rear seat that folds flat and a 2-tier tailgate that expands your cargo options, the i-370 keeps winning you over time and time again.

The clock is ticking louder and louder and as we move forward to the moment the three-pointed star brand takes the wraps off the sixth generation SL-Klasse, the German engineers are working hard to make it ready for the official unveiling this fall.

We are talking here about the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL model, which is set to wow the crowds at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September.

Obviously, this wouldn’t be possible with the heavy plastic disguise it was wearing the last we got the chance to take a sneak peak at it. So, as we are facing some hot summer days, the specialists at Mercedes in charge with the project decided to lose some of the ‘clothes’.

Our dedicated team of spy photographers have managed to snap a new set of photos of the prototype with some of the camouflage dropping away, so that we can get a better look at the next SL’s overall shape.

What’s even more interesting is that our spy photographers say that the SL was in a group of vehicles which included an Aston Martin Vantage Roadster and a Jaguar XK, likely for benchmarking purposes.

As we patiently await for Mercedes-Benz to give us the final version of the next-generation SL, we’ll have to settle with the little we know about it. For example, the SL will likely be lighter than its predecessor, with extensive use of carbon-fibre components and reinforced plastics. Also, it will feature an array of Benz power plants inclu

As you probably know, Lexus is working on a new generation of the GS saloon. If we think about the Japanese carmaker’s “all-hybrid” philosophy, it becomes clear that the upcoming vehicle, which will go head to head with the Mercedes E-Klasse and the BMW 5 Series, will also come with such a version. However, the vehicle will no longer be an alternative to the competition’s clean diesels, as it will feature such a powerplant itself.

According to autocar, the new GS, which will hit the market in 2012, will have an engine range that will include a four-cylinder engine, which will make the car accessible to a larger audience.

We are talking about a four-cylinder oil burner, which will not only reduce the vehicle’s price, but also offer a good efficiency. Of course, this means that the vehicle will enter the important fleet market, an area that its German rivals have been adoring for years. The diesel won’t be included in the GS range from the launch, as it is expected to be offered starting from 2013.

And there’s more: we’re not only talking about a step made by the GS range here - Lexus claims that this development will open a new pathway for the company.

The upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show will allow us to find out more details about the next GS. What can we say? We’re pretty curious to find out if the Germans have something to be afraid of.

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