Renault GCC will extend its existing line-up with the introduction of four new models across the Middle East by the end of this year. The back-to-back launches are in line with the almost-French manufacturer’s plans to expand its market share within the small and mid-size passenger car segments.
BMW has launched two high-end hybrid models in the GCC, based on the X6 and the 7-Series, and both with equally long names. One is the BMW ActiveHybrid X6 and the other is the BMW ActiveHybrid 7. After a few false starts by Chevrolet, Toyota and Mercedes-Benz, these are likely the first true hybrid vehicles to be commercially available in the UAE. And we are assuming they are expensive.
Forgotten French automaker Citroen will be showing off a concept car at the 2010 Shanghai Auto Show later this month. Dubbed the Citroen Metropolis, it seems to be getting a lot of press for the way it looks.
Audi is now peddling a mildy-upgraded version of their R8 V10 beluga whale, at a substantially higher price, dubbing it the Audi R8 GT.
Volkswagen chose to launch the all-new 2011 Volkswagen Phaeton at the 2010 Beijing Auto Show in China. Boasting a complete redesign from top to bottom, the amazing Phaeton is sure to dominate the luxury car market with its mind-blowing styling and insane performance.
Did you think recall season was over? Of course not. There are still a few manufacturers left. Porsche is recalling the 2010 Panamera for a potential seat-belt defect that could leave the driver unprotected in the event of a crash.
This is actually the first update on our 2005 Peugeot 307 2.0 XSI since we bought the black 3-door hatchback back in late 2008. Driven by a woman in its earlier life, some of the things that she did came back to haunt us over the past year, although the car did prove to be reasonably reliable. Oddly enough, my first update is also my last update. Largely driven by my college-going brother, I’ve now sold the car to Diego, my former PR guy.
BMW has also decided to try its hand into the ‘four-door coupe’ market and released designs of the Concept Gran Coupe.
Porsche has recently launched a V6 model for the Panamera. Two models, the Panamera and Panamera 4, debuted at the Beijing Motor Show. The Porsche Panamera, which is already a super hit in this region, is sure to attract even more customers due to its lower price. Besides the engine, everything else is pretty much the same as the V8 models.
Mercedes Benz is planning to release the next generation CLS soon. Until then, the Mercedes Benz Shooting Break Concept has been revealed, to give an idea of the design cues it will sport.