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    Renault Australia Fourth Largest Mégane R.S. 250 Market Globally in 2011 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 31-01-2012 05:58 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. Renault
    Article Preview

    Renault Sport has celebrated a sensational 2011 with a global sales increase of 31% world-wide. This strong growth figure was largely driven by international markets with an 86% sales increase outside of Europe. 2011 marked the expansion of Renault Sport to three new markets – Argentina, Chile and Ukraine.

    Australian customers have embraced the multi award-winning Mégane R.S. 250 with open arms; making Australia the fourth largest global market for this striking vehicle in 2011.

    Australia was the 14th largest global market for Renault Sport sales, up 4 places from 2010.

    Stunning from every angle, the Mégane R.S. 250 has enjoyed immediate success in Australia. Several Renault dealerships have traded prestige vehicles – including a Mercedes-Benz C 63 AMG, a Porsche 911 Carrera 4 and an Audi TT S – for the race-bred, performance orientated Mégane R.S. 250.

    In addition, the Mégane R.S. 250 was crowned ‘Drive Car of the Year’ for the second year running in the ‘Best Performance Car under $60,000’ category, after winning the Top Gear Australia Magazine Car of the Year award on debut.

    Commenting on this result, Justin Hocevar, Managing Director Renault Australia, said; “I am thrilled at the success of Renault Sport in Australia. Australians love driver’s cars and clearly the Mégane R.S. 250 has struck accord with driving enthusiasts and Renault fans alike.

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    Fun With Eight, Economy With Four: New V8 Engine – Made By AMG 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 25-07-2011 07:02 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. International
    3. Mercedes
    Article Preview

    Mercedes-AMG has developed a new 5.5-litre V8 engine which combines powerful eight-cylinder performance with the decidedly economical fuel consumption of a four-cylinder. Unrivalled efficiency is achieved thanks to the AMG Cylinder Management cylinder shut-off system newly developed by Mercedes-AMG. This new technology exclusively developed by AMG is inspired by Formula 1 racing. In the eight-cylinder racing engines developing around 750 hp, cylinder shut-off is likewise used primarily to save fuel.

    Thanks to a fuel saving of around 30 percent compared to the existing AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine, the naturally aspirated, high-revving eight-cylinder demonstrates the great innovative strength of AMG. At the same time it is AMG's demonstration of the potential still residing in the naturally aspirated eight-cylinder engine.

    The distinctive AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine with AMG Cylinder Management and direct petrol injection will find exclusive use in the new SLK 55 AMG, which will celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt/Main in September. This means that the latest version of the SLK 55 AMG will remain the only roadster in its segment with an eight-cylinder engine.

    Even with peak output increased by 45 kW to 310 kW and torque increased from 510 to 540 newton metres, the fuel consumption of 8.5 litres per 100 kilometres (NEDC combined, provisional figure) is 3.5 litres less than that of the preceding model – a real quantum leap of around 30 percent which places the new SLK 55 AMG among the top performers in its segment. CO2 emissions have likewise been considerably reduced, as witness the figure of 199 grams per kilometre (NEDC combined, provisional figure).

    New naturally aspirated eight-cylinder closely related to the V8 biturbo

    In line with its "AMG Performance 2015" strategy, Mercedes-AMG is meeting its promise to continuously reduce both the fuel consumption and emissions of new models over the next few years with the new V8 unit – while reaching new heights with the central brand claim of "Driving Performance". Moreover, the performance brand within Mercedes-Benz is also demonstrating its social commitment with the M152.

    The new M152 is based on the AMG M157 5.5-litre V8 biturbo engine presented in 2010, which powers the E 63 AMG, CLS 63 AMG, S 63 AMG and CL 63 AMG. Numerous components and systems are basically identical, e.g. the displacement, bore/stroke, distance between cylinders, stop/start system and direct petrol injection technology. Distinguishing features versus the M157 include the new intake air ducting, new cylinder heads, the modified valve drive, an adapted oil supply system and an optimised crankcase.

    "Top performer for fuel economy and maximum output: with the new 310 kW AMG 5.5-litre V8 engine we have once again created a real masterpiece. The M152 sets an outstanding example for efficiency, while demonstrating the creativity and expertise of our engineers, who took their inspiration from Formula 1 when developing the cylinder shut-off system. This makes the new, naturally aspirated eight-cylinder the perfect power unit for the new SLK 55 AMG, which will celebrate its premiere at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt/Main in the autumn," says Ola Källenius, Chairman of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
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    BMW Announces Pricing for New BMW 6 Series Convertible 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 04-04-2011 03:59 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW

    • Entry price of the 6 Series Convertible now under $200,000* with the introduction of the 640i
    • Sleek, low-slung, wider body for elegance and performance
    • BMW ConnectedDrive innovations offering ultimate in luxury, safety and infotainment
    • BMW Efficient Dynamics technologies underpin powerful performance

    BMW Group Australia today announced pricing for its new generation 6 Series Convertible, the brand’s largest and most luxurious open-top sports car.

    In the exclusive environs of the premium convertible market, the 2+2 seater offers the most efficient engines, most advanced chassis technology and most innovative comfort, infotainment and safety features in its segment.

    Pricing starts at $194,300* for the 640i six-cylinder in-line TwinPower Turbo petrol engine and $248,300* for the 650i V8 TwinPower Turbo petrol engine. The 650i will be available from launch and on sale in Australia on 29 May. The 640i will hit local shores in August this year.

    BMW Group Australia Managing Director Phil Horton said the new BMW 6 Series offers customers in the premium convertible segment a comprehensive package in terms of performance, luxury and sophistication.

    “The BMW 6 Series Convertible stands out in its competitive class combining effortless performance and elegant practicality,” said Mr Horton.

    “We expect this new generation 6 Series to lure discerning customers from an array of exotic marques,” he said.

    The range-topping 650i Convertible boasts a 4.4-litre TwinPower Turbo V8 engine featuring High Precision Injection generating 300kW of power and maximum torque of 600Nm across a broad rev range between 1750 rpm and 4500rpm.
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    Mercedes-Benz At The Australian International Motor Show - A Resounding Sales Success 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 25-10-2010 10:02 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. Mercedes

    The inaugural Australian International Motor Show (AIMS) at Darling Harbour in Sydney has been a resounding sales success for Mercedes-Benz says Richard Emery, general manager Sales, Mercedes-Benz Passenger Cars.
    Emery said “We are extremely pleased that the first of the new era of Australian Motor Shows staged by the joint venture of the VACC and the FCAI has delivered on the promise of a benchmark event for the exhibitors and the public. We put a lot of effort, thought and money into supporting the inaugural show with a new stand design, customer interactivity and the display of two unique vehicles built especially for AIMS as well as three new model releases.

    The customer response has frankly exceeded our expectations with visitors to our stand being one of the highest for many years. We commissioned two special vehicles from AMG Performance Studio and they have been surrounded by show visitors constantly since their unvieling.

    The SLS AMG finished in designo Night Black paint has clearly hit a chord with a number of customers competing to purchase this one of a kind vehicle.

    The ‘Concept 358’ designo Orange Pearl C 63 AMG with Performance Package Plus has been a standout demonstration of just what the AMG Performance Studio can achieve for customers. Every day at AIMS we have customers wanting to buy this vehicle. We have significant promotional commitments for this car over the next few months and the challenge for us is deciding who is going to be the lucky owner of this unique car.
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    25 Years Of BMW All-Wheel-Drive Expertise 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 25-10-2010 09:59 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW

    The road heads inexorably into the distance, rising steeply time and again. Fortunately, the intelligent BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system is in place to transfer the necessary propulsion to the ground. 25 years on from the market launch of the first all-wheel-drive model from BMW, the world’s most successful premium carmaker has secured itself an outstanding position in the market for all-wheel-drive vehicles. One in four BMW cars sold around the world is now equipped with xDrive, the sustained success of the BMW X models playing a pivotal role in this development. In addition, the number of cars from other model series specified with all-wheel drive is steadily rising. BMW currently offers 45 models in which xDrive provides variable distribution of drive between the front and rear wheels. These models extend all the way from the BMW X models via the BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series ranges to the BMW 7 Series family of luxury Saloons.

    1985 saw all-wheel drive offered for the first time for the BMW 3 Series – both as an extension of the model range and as an alternative to the customary BMW rear-wheel drive. By now BMW was using the transfer of power to both axles not only to optimise traction on loose surfaces and in adverse weather conditions, but also to enhance dynamic performance though corners. The latest version of the BMW xDrive all-wheel-drive system rises to this challenge more effectively than ever. Linking the all-wheel-drive system up with Integrated Chassis Management (ICM) means that all situations on the road can be recognised and evaluated to allow the necessary control interventions to be made at an early stage. These can be carried out by xDrive either on its own or in combination with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) or Performance Control. The power is distributed quickly and with great precision to where it is needed, ensuring that the driver enjoys the handling characteristics he would expect from a BMW – even under extremely dynamic cornering.

    In contrast to other manufacturers, who use all-wheel drive principally to make up for the shortfall in traction suffered by front-wheel-drive vehicles, BMW tunes its xDrive system to provide handling typical of rear-wheel drive. Even in normal situations on the road, all-wheel-drive BMW models send the lion’s share of drive to the rear wheels, the same place where the brand’s cars with only one driven axle turn power into optimum dynamic performance. This ensures that the hallmark BMW steering precision is virtually free from drive forces in all-wheel-drive models as well. Indeed, all-wheel drive actually enhances the driving experience through corners. In order to enable particularly precise turn-in and a high level of directional stability, the latestgeneration xDrive sends more drive to the rear axle on the way into corners.
    And that takes the brand’s characteristic driving pleasure to a new level once again.

    All-wheel-drive technology from BMW: rigorous further development, dynamic growth.
    Over the last 25 years at BMW, all-wheel drive has developed from an option initially limited to selected models to a growth driver for the ongoing expansion of the model range. At the time it was launched in the secondgeneration BMW 3 Series, all-wheel drive was offered exclusively in conjunction with a 2.5-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol engine producing 126 kW/171 hp. Today, xDrive can be specified for the BMW 3 Series in tandem with any of three six-cylinder petrol engines, a four-cylinder petrol unit and a six-cylinder diesel powerplant.
    The permanent all-wheel drive of the BMW 325iX unveiled in 1985 channelled power to the front and rear wheels at a constant 37 : 63 percent split. Visco locks in the transfer case and final drive took their cues from the difference in rotation speed between the front and rear wheels to provide virtually fixed connections if required, and in this way optimise traction and driving stability. From 1988 customers could also order a Touring variant of the BMW 325iX.
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    Audi Finds A New Home In Bendigo 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 25-10-2010 09:57 AM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. Audi

    • Official opening of Audi Centre Bendigo on 20 October 2010
    • More than $1.8 million investment into brand new facility
    • Offers display space for up to 16 Audi vehicles

    On Wednesday 20 October, Audi Centre Bendigo was officially opened by Audi Australia managing director, Mr Uwe Hagen, along with owner and dealer principal, Mr Stephen Rechter.

    This exemplary new regional facility was the subject of an investment that exceeded $1.8 million. It has been built to exacting standards under Audi’s global strategy and is further proof of Audi’s unwavering commitment to becoming the number one premium car maker in Australia by 2015.

    Audi Centre Bendigo represents the first time Audi Australia has established a dedicated dealership in Bendigo, and is a reflection of the brand’s ongoing growth and success right across Australia.

    The spacious and modern dealership offers space for 8 new Audi vehicles, plus will showcase 8 Audi Approved Plus vehicles.

    For service customers, five dedicated service bays have been installed, ensuring, as always, that aftersales service is a top priority.
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    M Sport Package Now Available On The BMW 5 Series 

    by
    Tom
    Published on 23-08-2010 01:24 PM
    Categories:
    1. Local
    2. BMW

    BMW Australia today announced details of the new M Sport Package available for its acclaimed BMW 5 Series .

    Developed by BMW M GmbH, the package comprises components that have been specifically adapted to match the suspension, aerodynamics, and exterior and interior design of the BMW 5 Series range. The M sports suspension, M aerodynamics package and 18-inch M light alloys featuring a double spoke design contribute towards enhanced driving dynamics and an exceptionally powerful appearance. Moreover, optionally available features include 19-inch M light alloys (standard on the BMW 550i fitted with M Sport Package) as well as an M rear spoiler.

    Sports leather seats give the interior a particularly sporting ambience (Comfort Seats are standard on the 550i and available as an option on all other models). Further interior features included in the M Sport Package comprise, an M leather steering wheel, BMW Individual headliner Anthracite, door sill finishers with M badging and M Aluminium Hexagon interior trim (high-gloss dark brown Ash Grain wood trim standard on the 550i).

    Australian Pricing for the BMW M Sport package on the BMW 5 Series is as follows:

    BMW 520d $7,900
    BMW 528i $6,100
    BMW 535i $4,900
    BMW 535d $4,900
    BMW 550i $4,900

    The BMW 5 Series M Sport Package is available on the entire 5 Series Sedan and Touring range and will arrive in showrooms in November.
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