Category Archives: Test Drives

The Multifaceted Super SUV – Design, performance & driving dynamics of Lamborghini URUS

15 Monday Jan 2018

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By Shereen Shabnam

We recently ventured into Italy to witness Automobili Lamborghini launch its third model, the Lamborghini Urus. The Lamborghini Urus is the first Super Sport Utility Vehicle and hence creates a new niche in the luxury segment with benchmarking power, performance and driving dynamics, unparalleled design, luxury and daily usability.

The Lamborghini Urus stays true to the Lamborghini DNA in terms of design, performance, driving dynamics and emotion and is drivable every day in a range of environments. It is in other words a powerful luxury SUV with a super sports car dynamism that can be enjoyed by both driver and passengers.

Its low-line coupé styling and commanding road position gives it a super car look and feel but once we got in and, it felt comfortable with a higher ground clearance and the luxurious space inside is coupled with the latest technologies.

The Urus provides easy driving in the city, maximum comfort during long journeys, thrilling super sports car dynamics on the road and track, and versatile off-road abilities in a range of environments.

The Lamborghini Urus has a dual personality: it is multi-dimensional. It can be specified to be as sporty or as elegant as the owner wishes, and can equally be used as a daily luxury drive or provide an exhilarating super sports experience.

The driving modes to select from include the Strada, Sport, Corsa, Neve, Terra and Sabbia and there offers a more enhance drive experience on road, track, sand, snow etc.

The Urus features a 4.0 liter V8 twin-turbo engine delivering 650 hp (478 kW) at 6,000 rpm, maximum 6,800 rpm, and 850 Nm of maximum torque already at 2,250 rpm. With 162.7 hp/l the Urus claims one of the highest specific power outputs in its class and the best weight-to-power ratio at 3,38 kg/hp.

The Urus accelerates from 0-100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, 0-200 km/h in 12,8 seconds and with a top speed of 305 km/h. This makes it the fastest SUV available on the market.

The Lamborghini URUS is built in an entirely new factory using the latest robotic manufacturing technology to work in tandem with the human workers on the floor and where we were for the launch event.

#petrolhead #motoring #Automotive #uae #carcrazy #carsovereverything #Fijian #ShereenShabnam #Fijian #Emirates #UAE #fastcars #AllAboutWheels #DrivingPleasure #cargirl #MyDrive #performance #Islander #supercars #lovecars #luxury-cars #carlover #fastcars #horsepower #speed #engine #style #luxury #ShereenBehindTheWheel #cars #CarSpotting @Shereen_Shabnam

Sleek and Elegant Lines Infiniti QX30

13 Saturday Jan 2018

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By Shereen Shabnam

Remaining true to the powerful and elegant design cues that guided the original QX30 concept, the all-new Infiniti QX30 comes with a sculpted exterior, unique crossover stance and asymmetric cabin design that exemplifies Infiniti’s design-led approach to product development.

In addition to its striking appearance, the QX30 offers an elevated ride height, confidence-inspiring handling, and a versatile attitude, underpinned by an Intelligent All-wheel Drive system.

As a result, the vehicle is able to take on urban, suburban and winding rural roads in all-driving conditions. I drove it mainly around the city, which it was perfect for as it was easy to manoeuvre and was responsive at all speeds.

Created for a new generation of premium buyers who appreciate category-defying design inside and out, the all-new Infiniti QX30 crossover boasts a purposeful appearance that makes a bold visual statement – and joins the Q30 as part of Infiniti’s new premium compact model line-up.

Getting in and out of the car was comfortable and in cabin experience very pleasing. The QX30’s supreme interior quietness adds to cabin comfort, with some of the lowest noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels in the premium compact segment.

The QX30 claims to be among the safest cars in its class owing to a range of active safety and hazard avoidance technologies that enhance the driving experience and provide maximum safety to all occupants. An Around View Monitor with moving object detection and automatic parking assistance makes the QX30 the easiest car to park in its segment.

Overall, the QX30 gives the driver more control, more confidence, more power — no matter how far you go. With a range of dynamic performance technologies, such as Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, the QX30 delivers a smooth, precise driving experience.

Lightweight & Sophisticated Cadillac XT5

13 Saturday Jan 2018

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By Shereen Shabnam

2018 Cadillac XT5 Platinum
2018 Cadillac XT5 Platinum
2018 Cadillac XT5 Platinum

Luxury crossover vehicles is popular this year with almost every brand so we ventured out to test the Cadillac XT5 crossover which combines space, luxury and high-tech convenience resulting in a perfect lightweight Touring vehicle.

The 2017 Cadillac XT5 is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that previously seen in the brand’s ATS and CTS sport sedans and is currently featured in the CT6. With SAE-certified peak output of 310 horsepower (231 kW) and 367 Nm (271 lb-ft) of torque, the V6 uses variable valve timing for strong response and smooth power delivery.

Much lighter that the SRX, the Cadillac XT5 comes with a design structure specifically created to improve fuel economy, driving dynamics and interior space. It is powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine that previously were introduced in the ATS and CTS sport sedans and now used in the CT6.

Key features include the rear camera mirror, Apple CarPlay & Android Auto compatibilities, auto-heated steering wheel and front- and rear-seat USB capabilities. There is space for both phones and tablets in the center console, WiFi capabilities and charging ports conveniently accessible in the front and rear seats.

Interior surfaces inside the XT5 are wider and more horizontal in orientation, emphasizing space-efficiency with the usual cut-and-sewn wrapped panels. It is simple but sophisticated with reduced visual noise and clutter. The XT5 includes five interior color and trim choices, with decorative trim options ranging from carbon fiber to two types of aluminum and four types of genuine wood.

Cadillac’s Stop/Start technology automatically stop and start the engine when the vehicle is at rest in traffic stops, saving fuel and reducing emissions, while enhancing the quietness expected of a luxury vehicle.

An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard for the XT5, which also debuts Electronic Precision Shift – the first electronically controlled transmission shifter for a Cadillac. Electronic Precision Shift reduces noise and vibration, and it allows the cabin space to be further utilized with an innovative storage space beneath the center console.

The 2018 XT5 sets a high standard for technology and safety features. Cadillac’s patented new industry-leading Rear Camera Mirror system is standard on 2018 XT5 Platinum models. The system enhances the driver’s rear vision by 300 percent, using a video display applied over the conventional inside rearview mirror. A Surround Vision feature enables a “bird’s eye” view of the perimeter around the car in parking as well.

The crossover’s lean and sleek design and structure reflect the renowned Cadillac expertise for lightweight and agile luxury cars with improved interior space and fuel efficiency. The exterior stands out with flowing uninterrupted lines separated by crisp edges and hence reflects a more elegant, clean and modern craftsmanship.

 

Mountain adventures with the Audi Q5 and SQ5

11 Thursday Jan 2018

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By Shereen Shabnam

The sporty and dynamic SUV with the four rings recently came into our hands in the form of the new Q5 and SQ5 – both models that combine the sportiness of an Audi sedan with a multifaceted character of an SUV and a highly flexible interior.

We tested the new SUV on normal roads and the mountains of Salalah in Oman.

The new Q5 also stands at the top of its class in its aerodynamics. The four-cylinder versions attain a cd figure of 0.30 with the aerodynamically optimized roof. Wind noises are exceptionally low, and vibration comfort is high – the new SUV from Audi indulges the driver and passengers with the best interior acoustics in its class.

It comes in 12 different exterior colours (plus Audi Exclusive) and three newly configured equipment lines are available – base, sport and design. It also features a sculpturally flared Singleframe grille while a solid frame dominates its aerodynamically flat front end.

The interior offers significant space for five persons, and it surpasses the previous model and its competitors in key dimensions. Its horizontally oriented lines underscore the impression of width and comfort, and a three-dimensional trim strip runs across the entire width of the instrument panel. The new equipment lines concept offers customers a broad selection of colours and materials.

Operation of the new Audi SUV is intuitive and is marked by three great new features. The Audi virtual cockpit presents brilliant graphics on its high-resolution 12.3-inch screen. The MMI terminal in the centre console acts as the main control element and its logic is based on the flat hierarchies used in today’s smartphones.

For music lovers, the Bang & Olufsen Sound System with innovative 3D sound introduces the spatial dimension of height while the Audi smartphone interface also brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto into the new Q5 model range.

With its driver assistance systems, the new Audi Q5 and SQ5 also tops its segment with a range of high-tech options offered in one package – “City assist with Parking assist”

Cross traffic assist rear, the exit warning system, collision avoidance assist and turn assist are other new features that perform excellently in pursuit of safety. Park assist and hill descent assist complete the new features offered.

In summary, the drive with the Audi SQ5 on different terrains proved how versatile and sporty the new SUV is. Plus it is elegant, comes with numerous personalization options, offers generous space and with technology that it is best in its class.

#petrolhead #motoring #Automotive #uae #carcrazy #carsovereverything #Fijian #ShereenShabnam #Fijian #Emirates #UAE #fastcars #AllAboutWheels #DrivingPleasure #cargirl #MyDrive #performance #Islander #supercars #lovecars #luxury-cars #carlover #fastcars #horsepower #speed #engine #style #luxury #ShereenBehindTheWheel #cars #CarSpotting @Shereen_Shabnam 

Aerodynamic Performance – Aventador S

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By Shereen Shabanam

With the hills of Tuscany as the backdrop and in the company of fellow supercar motoring enthusiasts from around the globe over a few days, I recently tested the new Lamborghini Aventador S which has a new aerodynamic design, redeveloped suspension, increased power and new driving dynamics.

The ‘S’ is the suffix of previous enhanced Lamborghini models and defines a new benchmark for the V12 Lamborghini and indicates the new Aventador generation, redesigned to achieve maximum aerodynamic efficiency while accenting the Aventador’s complex, muscular dynamism.

According to Automobili Lamborghini Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Stefano Domenicali, the Aventador S has a visionary design, cutting-edge technology with driving dynamics that elevates the concept of super sports cars to a new level.

A more aggressive nose and longer front splitter redirect airflow for better aerodynamic efficiency, improved engine cooling and increased cooling to the radiators. Two air ducts in the side of the front bumper reduce aerodynamic interference from the front tires and optimize wake flow to the rear radiator.

The rear of the Aventador S is dominated by a black diffuser, available on request in carbon fiber, characterized by a number of vertical fins that amplify the airflow effects, reduce drag through pressure recovery and generate downforce. Three single exhaust outlets exit through the rear bumper.

During the drive, we learnt how the rear wing, movable in three positions depending on speed and drive select mode, optimizes the car’s improved overall balance, working with vortex generators created in the front and rear of the chassis’ underside that maximize air flow as well as assist in brake cooling.

With the Aventador S design, the front downforce has been improved by more than 130% over the previous Aventador coupé. When the wing is in its optimum position the overall efficiency at high downforce is improved by over 50%, and in low drag by more than 400% compared to the previous model.

The Aventador S is redeveloped around a ‘total control concept’ to provide a superior drive, ride and performance; every aspect of the car’s suspension and electronic control systems has been advanced, with the goal of particularly enhanced control and driving emotion.

Also interesting is the smart Lamborghini Dinamica Veicolo Attiva (LDVA) control unit that manage these systems in the car. LDVA is the new brain of the car, which receives real time and precise information on body motion via input from all sensors of the car and defines the best set-up of all active systems that guarantee the best vehicle dynamics in each situation.

The Aventador S is more agile with a reduced turning radius, ensuring higher performance in curves and making it easy to maneuver in town and at low speeds. On the tracks, I tried all four different driving modes: STRADA, SPORT, CORSA and the new EGO mode, which influence the behavior of the traction (engine, gearbox, 4WD), steering (LRS, LDS, Servotronic) and suspension (LMS).

STRADA stands for maximum comfort and daily use. SPORT provides a sporty, rear-wheel drive feel and CORSA is suitable for maximum track performance.

EGO is the new driving mode option. This provides several additional and individual set-up profiles, customizable by the driver’s preferred criteria for traction, steering and suspension within the STRADA, SPORT and CORSA settings.

In STRADA, the progressive damping is smoothed for better comfort and stability on rough roads. Torque is split 40/60 to the front and rear as standard: safe and stable with maximum adhesion, the car is easily driven and controlled.

In SPORT mode, the stabilizing effect of the Lamborghini Rear-wheel Steering allows up to 90% torque to the rear wheels for maximum sportiness and driving fun on curving roads. Driving precision and driver feedback is improved, while maintaining safety and without compromising on comfort.

While I drove mainly in SPORT mode, I tried the CORSA as well experiencing less intrusive dynamic and traction control intervention while maintaining driving precision and traction. In this mode, high levels of damping force maximize driver feeling and feedback from driver inputs including steering, braking and throttle.

Counter-phase steering is enhanced in high-performance situations and torque is balanced to both axles, with a maximum 20/80 split to front and rear for more neutral behavior and to maximize track-oriented performance.

The Lamborghini Aventador’s naturally aspirated twelve cylinder, 6.5 liter engine outputs an additional 40 hp over its predecessor, to a maximum 740 hp, with a 690 Nm of torque at 5,500 rpm. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h is reached in 2.9 seconds, with a top speed of 350 km/h. Transmission is provided by Lamborghini’s lightweight Independent Shifting Rod (ISR) 7-speed shifting system, providing robotized gear shifts in up to 50 milliseconds.

The Aventador S comes with new, specially developed set of Pirelli P Zero tires. Designed to optimize steering, traction, lane changes and braking efficiency, the tires are specifically designed to respond to the dynamic behavior induced by the Lamborghini Rear-wheel Steering, ensuring handling consistency and driver feedback.

With improved force generation from both front and rear tires, the Pirelli P Zero tires provide a higher lateral acceleration and reduce understeer characteristics. Carbon ceramic brakes are standard equipment for the Aventador S.

The training at the Mugello Circuit with the Aventador S enthralled the most seasoned supercar drivers and owners and the thrills on the tracks proved once again the brand’s superior road power that exudes only from a Lamborghini.

Performance, luxury and efficiency: The new Porsche Panamera

09 Friday Jun 2017

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By Shereen Shabnam

As a Porsche owner, I always felt a pull towards the Panamera and have referred the car to many of my local Emirati friends who currently enjoy the model. Many have asked why I have not made the switch from the Cayenne Turbo to the Panamera but I get to drive the new luxury saloon so much with friends with the new Porsche Panamera, that I now consider myself a passive owner.

Redeveloped from the ground up, my current favourite of course is the Panamera 4S, a sports car and luxury saloon in one. Its engines and transmission were re-engineered, the chassis perfected, the display and operating concept interpreted for the future with multitouch controls, and its design embodies core brand values.

I first drove the Panamera on a racetrack in Abu Dhabi and the best description is that it combines the performance of a high-performance ambitious sports car with the comfort of a luxury saloon. It is essentially developed for sports car drivers who appreciate four doors and four seats. And for saloon drivers who prefer sporty handling.

The second generation Panamera is the performance icon of the luxury class with technical highlights such as rear axle steering, electromechanical roll stabilisation and a three-chamber air suspension.

Digitalisation of the automobile is changing mobility more intensively and faster than ever. The advanced cockpit offers state-of-the-art connectivity and interactive displays combining intuitive operation of smartphones with the practical aspects of controlling an automobile.

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The Panamera is equipped with many standard and optional assistance systems, which make life while driving more convenient and safer. The key new systems include Night Vision Assist.

A hi-fi system with ten loudspeakers and 150 watts of music power delivers optimal sound 
as standard aboard the Panamera 4S models. Two additional USB charging ports ensure that smartphones and tablets in the Panamera are always optimally supplied with electricity.

A Porsche has always impressed with more than just power; its efficiency is equally important. All Panamera models have new engines, permanent all-wheel drive and a new eight-speed Porsche dual-clutch transmission (PDK) on board.

The V8 petrol engines of the Panamera exhibit exceptional agility right up into high rev and power regions. At the same time, the eight-cylinder engines already produce their maximum torque at very low revs. This type of sports car dynamic is largely attributable to the central turbo layout, which is a feature of twin-turbo charging that has been implemented in all models.

The second generation Panamera is the first model from Porsche to feature a dual-clutch transmission with eight instead of seven speeds. The eight-speed transmission generally enables an even better gear ratio spread and with top comfort and agility, a further reduction in fuel consumption, because the seventh and eighth gears are designed as engine speed-reducing overdrive gears. All Panamera models reach their top speed in sixth gear.

The new Porsche Panamera is one of the safest cars in the world. Along with a crash-optimised body, it is the alliance of additional passive safety systems that assures maximum protection of vehicle occupants. The Porsche Side Impact Protection System offers lateral protection.

Encountering two Panamera cars that are configured identicallyis low as the Panamera, Porsche offers personalisation with a very large range of combinations of twelve body colours, ten interior colour and leather schemes, a wide variety of wheels and optional equipment.

The second generation of the Gran Turismo is available in three all-wheel drive versions: Panamera 4S, Panamera Turbo and Panamera 4S Diesel.

 

Designed and engineered to perform

09 Friday Jun 2017

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A tryst with the all-new Q60 Red Sport 400 Coupe

Q60 2017 I.JPG

By Shereen Shabnam

Last week I had a date with a bright red new Q60 Red Sport 400 Coupe that lasted nearly five days after I picked the car up at the showroom of Arabian Automobiles Company, exclusive dealers for INFINITI in Dubai, Sharjah and the Northern Emirates.

The highly anticipated and all-new Q60 Red Sport 400 Coupe combines a completely all-new design reinforced by an advanced all-new 3.0-liter V6 twin-turbo engine available with 400hp that has increased power and torque while maintaining high levels of efficiency.

I drove the top of the line 3.0T Q60 which has the world’s first digitally adaptive handling system so the drive was pure pleasure. If you are looking for a milder version of the car, the 2.0T Q60 variant offers a four-cylinder gasoline engine that is turbocharged to produce 208 HP, again offering a great drive.

While many may buy the car for the looks and expressive design, both variants possess powerful dynamics that redefine the sports coupe, including technological innovations such as Intelligent Cruise Control that automatically adjusts speed to respond to traffic, and Direct Adaptive Steering that constantly fine-tunes steering performance with up to 1,000 adjustments a second.

While driving, I was constantly notified of the hazards around the car. If you test the car, check out the Forward Emergency Braking system with Pedestrians Detection as it helps to reduce the potential for collisions and provides warnings of approaching vehicles or large stationary objects and applies the brakes.

The Adaptive Lighting Systems heightens the driver’s awareness by allowing them to not just see ahead, but all around the vehicle. In addition to these safety technologies, the Q60 includes other driver-assistive features such as the Adaptive Front Lighting System and Active Lane Control.

The Q60 features newly-designed 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels as standard. The ‘Red Sport 400’ models or more performance-oriented versions of the car have wider wheels and tires at the rear, contributing to a more aggressive stance while also improving handling and grip with a higher capacity for lateral G-forces.

Also worth checking out is the second-generation of INFINITI’s world-first Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS), which is an advanced ‘steer-by-wire’ system that has undergone significant re-tuning. The Q60 driver can choose from seven personalized modes to customize steering performance according to their preferred driving style.

With innovative features combined with Dynamic Digital Suspension, the Q60’s powerful stance promises a compelling ride that puts drivers at one with the road and delivers a confidence-inspiring

THE SPORTING SIDE OF LUXURY: BENTLEY FLYING SPUR V8 S

09 Friday Jun 2017

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Bentley Flying Spur 1 V8 S.jpg

The latest head turner I drove on the Dubai roads this month is the Flying Spur V8 S. 
Taking its place between the Flying Spur V8 and family flagship W12, the new V8 S is tuned in for power and performance, with increased engine output and revised suspension and offered a smooth driving experience.

After driving the Mulsanne a few days before the Flying Spur V8 S, I was ready for a Bentley with more sporting capabilities and the V8 S gave me the spirited drive and adrenaline rush I needed.

A black radiator grille and rear diffuser along with a unique grille insert give the new model a dramatic and purposeful appearance to match its enhanced performance.

My first impression after driving the previous Bentley models was the feeling of more power, sharper handling and increased comfort.

For those wishing to display an even more extreme look, the Flying Spur V8 S can be specified with an array of aggressive, dark styling elements. Dark-tint, black gloss exterior mirror covers and a unique Mulliner Driving Specification 21” black and bright machined six-spoke wheel can all be specified to menacing effect.

With its unrivalled blend of effortless driveability, exquisite craftsmanship and onboard technology, the Flying Spur rightly lays claim to being the world’s finest luxury sedan.

The Flying Spur comes complete with a suite of onboard technology to make it an ideal place for work or relaxation on the move.

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An innovative Touch Screen Remote, deployed from the veneered rear centre console at the touch of a button, allows control of the car’s climate and infotainment systems from the comfort of the rear seat, while the optional Multimedia Specification brings an extensive Rear Seat Entertainment system.

Tuned for power, the Flying Spur V8 S takes us 100 km/h in 4.9 seconds (0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds), shaving 0.3 seconds from the V8’s already athletic sprint time. Top speed is 306 km/h (190 mph).

The combination of power, performance and economy is the result of an array of advanced technologies employed in the design of the Bentley V8 engine.

With the performance-focussed chassis revisions, the Flying Spur V8 S retains its power combined with the luxurious, limousine-smooth ride and legendary ability to transport passengers in unrivalled comfort.

Urban Style: The young and assertive Audi Q2

09 Friday Jun 2017

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By Shereen Shabnam

The new all rounder Audi Q2 is perfect for both city drives and off-road adventure as we find out during an action packed junket in the outskirts of Manama city in Bahrain. We fall in love with the model’s vibrant colours, angular styling, the state of the art technology and the mystery the car projects as it surprises us with its energy and confidence at every turn. 

The first part of the car that impressed me was the large luggage compartment which has ample space for shopping, gym and sports accessories and of course shoes. The compact SUV’s low roofline and high window line gives the sporty car a coupe-like look with striking wedge-shaped headlights.

Inside, the all-round visibility is impressive technologies from the full-size class. The driver can use the optional touchpad to scroll through a clearly structured menu, while passengers can surf and stream with smart-phones, tablets and other mobile devices via a Wi-Fi hotspot. The MMI screen is positioned high on the instrument panel as standard.

The driver assistance systems for the Q2 come from the full-size class. Safety is addressed with the standard emergency braking assistant and the car can autonomously maintain a distance to the vehicle ahead, monitor the blind spot and assist in lane keeping. Audi pre sense front uses radar to recognize hazardous situations that can occur with crossing pedestrians or other vehicles in front of the car. The system warns the driver and initiates hard braking if necessary, down to a standstill at low speeds.

The driver gets additional support from the latest-generation park assist.
It can manoeuvre the compact SUV into parallel and perpendicular parking spaces. Cross traffic assist rear comes into play when the driver wants to reverse out of a perpendicular parking spot. It monitors the traffic behind the car with its radar sensors.

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Audi offers a selection of three engines for the Q2: three TFSI whose power outputs range from 116 hp to 190 hp. The engine program follows the principle of rightsizing. This is about striking the perfect balance between vehicle class, engine displacement, power output, torque and efficiency behaviour in everyday conditions. Engine displacements for the new Audi Q2 are 1.0, 1.4 and 2.0 liters.

The top gasoline engine enables the four-cylinder to realize the fuel economy benefits of a downsizing engine in part-load operation, while offering the benefits of an engine with large displacement at higher loads. This results in excellent efficiency and power behavior over the entire engine speed range.

The 2.0 TFSI come standard with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The hydraulic multi-plate clutch with its electronic control transfers torque nearly entirely to the front wheels in normal driving, but it can redirect torque in a 50:50 ratio to the rear axle.

This is how the quattro drive unites driving pleasure and driving safety, taking them to a new level. Wheel-selective torque control, an intelligent sub-function of the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC), rounds out the quattro range of functions. The optional Audi drive select handling system lets the driver select between five modes: auto, comfort, dynamic, efficiency and individual. It influences a variety of vehicle systems, including the steering and gear shift characteristics as well as the optional suspension with adaptive damper control.

Customers also have many ways to express their personal style in the elaborately crafted interior. Colors like yellow, orange and red may be selected for inlays, sections of the seats and contrasting stitching. Inlays are also available in white plastic or brushed aluminum.

Seat upholstery choices range from high-end fabrics to fine Nappa leather. At night, the optional LED lighting package makes the interior especially attractive. In the top version, LED light guides illuminate the sculpted inlays at the front of the instrument panel and the center console with homogeneous light.

Ram Trucks Line Up to Spearhead Brand’s Growth

22 Wednesday Mar 2017

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By Shereen Shabnam

Since inception, the Ram Truck Brand has steadily emerged as an industry leader with one goal: to build the best pickup trucks and commercial vehicles in the industry. Hence, by creating a distinct identity for Ram Trucks has allowed the brand to concentrate on core customers and features they find valuable.

In order to be the best, it takes a commitment to innovation, capability, efficiency and durability and Ram Truck invests substantially in its products, infusing them with great looks, refined interiors, durable engines and exclusive features that further enhance their capabilities.

We often find that truck customers, from half-ton to commercial, have a demanding range of needs and require their vehicles to provide high levels of capability. Ram trucks are designed to deliver the total package that meets customers in this segment.

Recently I ventured into the desert with a group of motoring journalists to test the latest RAM Trucks. Growing up on the coastal as well as the highland terrain of the Fiji Islands, I developed an affinity with trucks early in life, as it was the main mode of transport for many who ventured outside the city regularly. Getting into the Ram trucks brought back memories of adrenalin packed drives into challenging terrains that only trucks can handle.

The Middle East is one of the key markets selected to spearhead the Ram brand’s expansion outside North America, where it has achieved significant success since becoming a stand-alone brand in 2009, winning numerous prestigious awards along the way. The brand, which only makes trucks, has rapidly built a strong reputation as a truck specialist.

FCA Middle East has confirmed that the Ram brand portfolio available in the region has grown significantly in response to customer demand, with the majority of new models available in showrooms straight away.

The Ram 1200 metric ton pickup, which joins a much-expanded line-up of larger, highly capable Ram 1500 trucks, gives the brand access to the largest truck segment in the Middle East.

“Ram is a key pillar of our expansion plans and will grow from six percent to represent 15 percent of our business, and even more over in the coming years,” said Maurizio Zuares, CEO of FCA Middle East.

“We listened to customers in order to deliver the products that they are looking for, and the result is an expanded Ram 1500 line up with many more regular cab and crew cab options, plus the addition of a metric ton pickup, which completes the Ram line up and allows us to compete in a segment where we were previously absent.”

According to FCA Middle East’s estimates, 2016 saw trucks accounting for 13 percent of total vehicle sales in the region, making it the second most important segment.

“While there are many opportunities in the Middle East, there are pre-requisites to ensure success. That’s why we believe that having a clear strategy for the future is essential, and we’re confident that we have everything in place to become a serious player in these important segments,” added Zuares.

 FCA Middle East’s strategy is based on a combination of the right products that have been extensively tested in the region, plus a strong focus on maximising the potential of the Ram brand in the Middle East.

Layered on top of that is a no-compromise commitment to both retail and business customers, combining great products with competitive prices and ensuring easy accessibility through a wide regional network. FCA Middle East also supports its products with strong manufacturer warranties, and Mopar® offers further reassurance and peace of mind through extended warranties, quick service facilities, competitive service packages and a wide range of accessories.

Rapid availability of spare parts is clearly another key factor in the purchase decision, and FCA Middle East has that area covered with its dedicated regional parts distribution centre in Jebel Ali.

To better serve the Ram brand customers, FCA Middle East is launching a cross-regional programme to establish sales and service teams that will be trained to effectively support Ram’s expanding portfolio.

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The Ram 1500 line up grows from three models to nine, with the introduction of the new Express, Sport, Big Horn, Longhorn and Limited models, with the eagerly anticipated Ram Rebel arriving around the middle of the year.

“From the new 1500 Express, which will appeal to customers looking for an affordable truck without compromising on design, to the sheer luxury of the Longhorn and Limited, which are targeted at customers looking for no compromise on luxury, there’s now a Ram for everyone,” said Robert J. Hegbloom, Head of Ram Brand International, FCA US LLC.

The current ST, SLT and Laramie models will also continue as part of the new range, which also includes 4 x 2 and 4 x 4 variants. All are powered by the legendary 5.7-litre HEMI® V8 and the new Express model also has the distinction of being the most powerful regular cab truck available in the Middle East.

The Ram 1200, available in the market immediately, comes in both single and double cab and 4 x 2 (rear-wheel drive) and 4 x 4 configurations, with two trim levels and the choice of petrol and diesel engines – all versions have a maximum height of 1,775 mm, are up to 1,785 mm wide with a wheelbase of 3,000 mm. Payload capacity is up to 1,165 kg, and it can tow up to 3 metric tons.

The two engine options are a 2.5-litre diesel with a power output of 94 kW (126 hp) to 100 kW (134 hp) or a 2.4-litre petrol engine that delivers 97 kW (130 hp). A manual gearbox is standard for both the diesel and petrol engines.

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