2010 Nissan Patrol spied undisguised

These are the first and only spy photos of Nissan's flagship SUV. The snaps are speculated as having been taken during an official presentation of the vehicle.

The newcomer hints at the Nissan Terranaut Concept from the 2006 Geneva Motor Show. The SUV has clearly been designed for the EU market so curvy styling, LED rear lights will put it directly in competition with Toyota's popular Land Cruiser V8 in Europe.

2 petrol engines will be available; a 4.0 litre V6 and 4.8 litre V8 naturally-aspirated engine as well as a 3.0 litre V6 diesel engine, developed jointly with Renault. The 3.0 litre longitudinally-mounted diesel engine is expected to have around 265bhp and 405lb-ft of torque. In the UK, the 3.0 litre V6 diesel will be offered and will be the best seller. The current Patrol has aged heavily and equates to poor sales.

U.S sales are likely where the Patrol could replace the aging Nissan Armada/Infiniti QX56. European sales should kick off mid-2009.

Check out the second picture, where you can see the Toyota LC through the front passengers window.

November car sales fall 36.8% (UK)

Europe:

As a recession kicks in, new-car registrations for November in the UK fell to their lowest figures in 28 years. New car registrations are 37% lower in the UK when compared to November 2007.

Year-to-date volume in the United Kingdom is down 10.7% from the same period in 2007 to 2,023,104 units. The new Ford Fiesta was the UK's best selling model in November, just ahead of the Focus which remains the best seller over the first 11 months of the year. In total, the Fiesta sold 42,200 units with 50% of customers choosing upmarket trim packages in Europe.

"November has been another difficult month for the motor industry and whilst some consumers may have delayed their purchases to take advantage of the recent VAT reductions, overall demand continues to fall," said Paul Everitt, SMMT chief executive. "Urgent action is now required to ease access to credit and finance, both to support consumers and meet the cash-flow needs of the industry." Diesel sales were at an all-time high, accounting for 47% of overall sales. Private sales fell down to 45.1%.

UK top 10 sellers (Units):

Ford Fiesta/Focus - 6,154/4,893

Vauxhall Corsa/Astra - 4,442/3,003

Ford Mondeo - 3,739

Vauxhall Vectra - 1,981

Volkswagen Golf - 3,052

Peugeot 207 - 2,507

BMW 3 Series - 2,195

Audi A3 - 2,194

Only 100,333 new cars were registered in the UK last month, down from 158,735 from a year earlier. All automakers had a decline in UK sales. Volvo had the best sales figures, down 6.7% from a year ago. Renault did the worst, down 64%. The steepest falls in sales were noted at Chrysler (down 76%), Lotus and Aston Martin (both down 73%) and Mitsubishi (down 70%). Standing firmer were Volvo (down 7%), Jaguar (down 11%), Ford (down 12%) and Smart (down 14%).

The rest of Western Europe did just as bad. However, year-to-year new car registrations are down 50% in Spain, 30% in Italy, 18% in Germany, and 14% in France. That slide is the worst for Germany since its reunification, and the worst in Spain for 15 years.

French President Nicolas Sarkozy specifically pointed out the importance of the auto industry in that country when he unveiled France's economic stimulus package. The country will also offer €1,000 to anyone who buys a car that produces less than 160g/km. Consumers there will be given greater opportunities to finance a car purchase when France sets up a €1 billion fund to provide low-cost car loans.

European new car sales dropped by 25.8% in November as the economic downturn continued to hit the industry. The European carmakers' association, Acea, said it was the biggest fall in new car sales since 1999 - and the seventh monthly fall in a row.

Icelandic sales fell an eye-popping 94.6%, Ireland's sale had a 55.9% fall, while Spain's fell 49.6%. Many companies have cut output to cope with the downturn. This week, Seat and Volvo became the latest firms to announce temporary production halts.

In Western Europe, registrations were down 26% from a year ago to a total of 854,698 new vehicles in November. Acea said about a million fewer cars were registered in Western Europe in the period from January to November.

The body's figures said that November sales were down by 36.8% in the UK, by 29.5% in Italy, by 17.7% in Germany, and by 14.1% in France. Among the major European manufacturers, Germany's Volkswagen recorded a 17.4% drop in European sales in November, France's Peugeot Citroen saw a 26.9% fall, Renault's sales dropped 21.8% and Fiat saw a 23.8% decline.

Separately, Seat said it would cut production further at its main plant in Catalonia in the first half of 2009 in response to diving sales. The fall in sales is not just restricted to passenger cars as truck sales also fell. Volvo said it would stop truck production for 20 to 25 days in the first quarter of 2009.

Governments are rushing to support car manufacturers struggling to cope with falling sales and difficulties in shifting their stocks of unsold vehicles. On Monday, after a meeting with top industry executives, France said it was ready to take action in return for a commitment to keep production in the country.

Volkswagen remains the top-dog in sales figures due to the launch of the new Scirocco and continued popularity of the Golf. But despite a 5.5% increase in sales of the Golf this year, Volkswagen sales have dipped by 3.8%. Audi is the only manufacturer in the top 10 sales list to show an increase this year, up by 0.2%. This is due, in part, to the new A4, which not only ranks as the ninth best selling model but also has recorded a 16.6% rise in European sales so far this year.

BMW sales were down 9.2% for October in Europe. Mercedes-Benz cars were down 18.1%, their first decline in 15 years. GM Europe sales were down 12.3% for the third quarter of the year. Ford of Europe sales were down 12.4% for the month of October in its main 19 European markets.

Its not all bad, Finland’s economy, however, has shown remarkable resilience; sales are up 77.5% year on year and 9.5% on the year. Slovakia has fared even better; sales there have increased by 17.2% during 2008.

North America:

Toyota's U.S sales plummeted November as consumers continue to avoid dealer showrooms.

The Japanese automaker sold a total of 130,307 vehicles, representing a 33.9% fall from the same month a year earlier. The Toyota Division that includes the Scion brand posted November sales of 114,084 units, a decrease of 33.8% from last November while Lexus reported November sales of 16,223 units, a decrease of 34.7% from the year-ago month.

Toyota's passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid, which posted combined sales of 25,224 units. The best selling Scion vehicle was the xB with 2,161 units while Lexus sales were led by the RX SUV, which posted combined November sales of 5,850 units.

Recent reports by Porsche shows how bad car sales are. Porsche sold 1,493 vehicles in North America in November. Of these, 1,378 went to the United States and 115 went to Canada. The decline of 46% in comparison with the same period last year clearly shows that the Stuttgart sports car manufacturer cannot escape the general resistance to purchasing that exists in North America.

For the Boxster series, the decline of 73% also has to do with the product life cycle; the new generation of the mid-engine sports cars will make its debut in the United States and Canada in March 2009.

GM reported a decline of 41%, with Ford sales dropping 30%. Chrysler LLC fared the worst with a drop of 47%. Honda and Toyota fared well with a small drop of 32% and 34%. Nissan sales plummeted by 44% in November.

Asia:

Sales of new cars in Japan and South Korea dropped by nearly 30% last month, confirming that the downturn in the car industry is global. According to data provided by the Japan Automobile Dealers Association, November car and truck sales in Japan fell 27.3% to 215,783 units from the same month a year ago, marking the worst November in more than 30 years. Sales of city cars with engines smaller than 660cc (0.66 litres) were down by 0.7% to 153,101 units.

Overall, the Japanese car market fell 18.2% in November from a year earlier to 368,884 vehicles. Japan's largest automaker, Toyota, saw its sales fell 27.7% while Honda dropped 21.6%, Nissan 29.5% and Mazda 33%.

In South Korea, domestic car sales in November plunged 27.2% to 74,217 units from a year earlier. The country's biggest carmaker, Hyundai, reported a 34% decline while sales at GM's Daewoo unit plunged 57%. Surprisingly, Kia, ranked second in South Korea, recorded an increase of 3.7% in car sales compared to last November.

Global car manufacture sales:

South Korea's Kia saw a rise of 10.1% in November to 1,272,689 units. November 2008 recorded 1,272,689 units, representing a 10.1% year-on-year increase and surpassing 2007 cumulative sales of 1,269,164 units.

Cumulatively through the first eleven months of 2008, China (134,176 units sold) and general markets (239,785 units sold) have experienced the largest year-on-year gains of 33.9%, and 32.2%, respectively. Cumulative sales increases have also been experienced in Korea (16.8% gain from 288,925 units sold) and Europe (0.7% gain from 315,172 units sold), while North America has experienced a relatively small decrease (6.3% decrease from 294,631 units sold).

Hyoung-Keun Lee, Senior Executive Vice President and COO of the International Business Division, said, "Despite these challenging economic times, Kia has still experienced growth. Through the month of November, Kia surpassed the 2007 cumulative sales figure and has experienced over 10% sales growth compared to only 3.5% for all of 2007."

In November, Kia announced that 99,731 vehicles were sold globally, a decrease of 13.9% compared to November of 2007. Kia posted year-on-year sales increases in general markets (23,516 units, 15.0% year-on-year increase) and Korea (26,145 units sold, 3.7% year-on-year increase). Meanwhile, in China, Europe and North America, 10,323 (0.8% decrease), 21,862 (33.4% decrease) and 17,885 (33.6% decrease) Kia vehicles were sold in November, respectively.

So far in 2008, Kia's best selling model in overseas markets has been the C-segment Cerato (known as 'Spectra' in some markets) with 178,198 units sold. The B-segment Rio takes second place with 143,392 units sold. Meanwhile the C-segment Cee'd and Kia's Sportage compact SUV compete closely for third place with 139,489 and 134,238 units sold, respectively. Rounding out the top five, the A-segment Picanto continues to perform well with 86,658 units sold. 623,008 passenger cars have sold so far in 2008, representing a 14.8% year-on-year increase.

Lee continued, "In November, Kia's compact SUV, the Sportage, was the number one vehicle sold globally, and strategic vehicles such as the Cee'd continue to perform well. With the launch of the all-new urban crossover Soul early next year, we are confident that Kia's product portfolio is well positioned to continue to stimulate sales growth in 2009."

The car-company, Ferrari has decided to take action by cutting its workforce by 10% and starting talks with trade unions to eliminate additional employees. This could potentially result in more than 300 people being laid off by the end of the week, with the chance of more layoffs in the future if market conditions fail to improve. Production at Ferrari's Maranello plant will also be stopped for 20 days during the upcoming Christmas holiday in order to keep vehicle inventory in check.

Perhaps the oddest thing about Ferrari's situation is that the company currently has a two-year waiting list but in some markets unsold cars are starting to pile up, particularly in the UK. Ferrari's chairman, Luca di Montezemolo, had previously stated that the company wouldn't feel the pressure from the economic crisis, as a decline in sales in one market would free up cars for markets with higher demand and long waiting lists.

According to sources sales of the 612 Scaglietti and 599 Fiorano have essentially flat-lined, and sales of the volume leader F430 have all but disappeared thanks to the unveiling of the similarly priced Ferrari California.

A company spokesperson attempted to dismiss the reports countering that luxury vehicle sales typically decline towards the end of the year and that Ferrari's U.S sales have only slowed a little. However they did admit that the company currently has a vehicle stockpile in the UK and the introduction of the California has put a serious damper on sales of the F430 Spider.

The continued market downturn resulted in a significant decline in sales in November for the BMW Group that consists of the BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce brands. The automotive group saw its global sales in November plunge by 25.4% to 96,570 units compare to 129,459 the same month a year ago. From the beginning of the year, the BMW Group has delivered a total of 1,323,572 vehicles, down 1.8% from the first 11 months of 2007. In November, BMW brand car sales were down 26.2% to 81,357 units, MINI sales fell 20.8% to 15,103 while Rolls Royce reported a 18.5% decline to 110 vehicles.

For the first 11 months of the year, global sales of BMW brand vehicles are down 3,5% to 1,105,112 units while MINI's are up by 7.6% to 217,405 as are Rolls Royce's by 28,5% to 1,055 vehicles .

Ian Robertson, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Sales and Marketing, said "Global automotive market demand fell once again in November. However, during the period to the end of November the BMW Group performed better than the overall premium segment and has increased its market share in the segment. In addition two of our three premium brands – MINI and Rolls-Royce – continue their growth over the 2007 sales results. The MINI brand is still the world's fastest-growing premium brand."

BMW's M-Division is flourishing in this harsh economic environment having exceeded the previous year's equivalent figures during the first 11 months of 2008 by over 50%. From January to November 2008, BMW has sold 22,340 M-Model cars worldwide compared to 14,092 vehicles in the same period in 2007. In November 2008 alone some 1,900 BMW M automobiles were delivered around the globe. As long ago as August 2008 the worldwide sales figures of BMW M GmbH reached 16,150 units, thus surpassing last year's total figure of 16,128 units.

"The fact that our dealers were able to supply significantly more vehicles than the average of the last nine months even in such dramatic times for the world economy demonstrates the fascination and attraction which BMW M automobiles exercise on our customers," said Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW M GmbH.

A major contribution to BMW M's runaway success in 2008 has been the introduction of the all-new M3 which is now offered in three body variations (Coupe, Sedan and Convertible). The high-performance sports car sold almost twice as well in its first year of production than its predecessor model did within the same period.

Currently, BMW M offers seven models that include three body types of the M3, the BMW M5 Sedan and Touring as well as the M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible.

Overall, BMW brand sales in 2008 for the first 11 months of the year, are down 3.5% compare to the same period in 2007 to 1,105,112 units.

Related links:

Car sales in October fall 23% (UK)

September sales figures down by 21% (UK)

Top 10 best and worst selling cars of 2008 (UK)

Car sales lowest since 1966 (UK)

French car sales plummet

Car sales fall again

Ford Focus RS pricing announced (UK)

Pricing for the fastest-ever European production car to come out of the Ford stable, the 2009 Focus RS, has been announced for the UK. When launched in March 2009, the Focus RS will have a price tag of £24,995.

After a number of years without an RS (Rallye Sport) variant, Ford finally gave in to customer demand and developed this turbocharged blazing hatch. Power is sourced from the Focus ST's 2.5 litre five cylinder petrol engine to produce 305PS, channeled through the front wheels. Maximum torque is rated at 440Nm.

The Focus RS features unique camshafts, revised cylinder heads and gasket, as well as changes to the intake and manifold systems. Its 6 speed manual gearbox helps the RS accelerate from 0 to 62mph in just under 6 seconds, with a top speed stated at over 160mph. Technologies such as the RevoKnuckle front-suspension system and a Quaife Automatic Torque Biasing LSD keep the car's handling top notch even in very sticky situations.

Interior appointments include Recaro sports seats, carbon fibre inlays, a Sony 6-CD changer, and a keyless engine starter system. There will be optional equipment offered like a £750 Luxury Pack that features dual-zone air conditioning, rain-sensing wipers and rear parking distance sensors. Another more expensive Luxury Pack includes a touch-screen DVD navigation system.

Considering that the Austrian model starts at the equivalent of £33,000, it's far cheaper if you think that the UK model is expensive.

Press Release:

Prices announced for 2009 Ford Focus RS

2008 Ford's fastest-ever European production car, the 2009 Focus RS, will be priced from £24,995 when it goes on sale in the UK in March.

The new Focus RS is the first Ford to wear the famous Rallye Sport badge since the first-generation Focus RS was launched seven years ago, and the 22nd since 1970.

RS denotes a distinctive blend of high performance, road-holding, refinement, safety and value for money, and reflects a proud tradition of successful motor sports involvement that continues to the present day.

Under the bonnet of the Ford Focus RS is a turbocharged 2.5-litre, five-cylinder Duratec petrol engine, with a confirmed 305PS and 440Nm peak torque. Features include unique camshafts and a revised cylinder head and gasket, intake and manifold system.

Front-wheel-driven through a six-speed transmission, the Focus RS accelerates from 0-62mph in under six seconds and has a targeted top speed of over 160mph.

A class-leading balance of traction, sports handling and performance is achieved through the combination of a Quaife Automatic Torque Biasing limited-slip differential and innovative RevoKnuckle front-suspension system.

These features are complemented by a wider track, enhanced drive-shafts and rear anti-roll bar, revised springs and dampers and retuned steering, while a specially developed version of Ford's Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) with Traction Assist (TA) provides added assurance.

Uprated disc brakes - 336mm ventilated front and 300mm rear - combine with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) to supply a reassuringly high degree of stopping power.

Taking its place as the top-of-the-range Focus, the RS will be immediately distinguishable on the road, with its unique bonnet, front bumper and side skirts. Also unique to the model are its 19-inch alloy wheels, shod with 235/35 tyres.

The rear twin-bladed spoiler - the continuation of an RS tradition - and the power/heated door mirrors are also distinctive, with their high-gloss black finish.

Xenon headlights with automatic levelling and jet-wash are provided, with LED lights at the rear. Dual chrome tailpipes add a further sporting dash.

A Quickclear heated windscreen is fitted, and privacy glass for the rear. A Ford Easy Fill fuelling system removes any risk of costly mis-fuelling errors at the pump.

The driver and front passenger benefit from unique Recaro sports seats, with side bolsters trimmed to match the colour of the car - green for Ultimate Green models, blue for those finished in Performance Blue or Frozen White. Rear passengers are comfortably accommodated in a sculpted Recaro-style seat.

A manual air-conditioning system is provided, and in-car entertainment in the form of a Sony radio and six-disc CD player with DAB. A Ford Power button allows for keyless engine ignition, and a Thatcham Category 1 alarm is standard.

A £750 Luxury Pack includes the options of Dual-Zone Electronic Automatic Temperature Control (DEATC) air-conditioning; automatic headlights; rain-sensor wipers; auto-dim rear-view mirror; rear parking-distance sensors; tyre deflation-detection; and a Ford Key-Free system. The £1,500 version of the Luxury Pack adds in a Touchscreen DVD Navigation System, with seven-inch touch-screen.

Other optional extras include partially leather-trimmed seats at £500 and, for £200, Bluetooth® hands-free phone connectivity and USB port. Specifying a metallic version of the Performance Blue paintwork costs £395, while a Tri-Coat Metallic Ultimate Green finish carries a £695 price tag.

The standard price of the flagship Focus RS compares with £20,408 for the ST3, the existing top-of-the-range Focus.

Related links:

Ford Focus RS reaches 1,000 deposits

Ford Focus RS deposits roll in (UK)

New Car: 2009 Ford Focus RS

Ford Focus RS teaser

BMW CS spotted in Germany

"You lying bitch", a quote from the hit comedy show Ugly Betty when Betty had lied to her class about being attacked by a bear (Season 2, Episode 4). Last month, BMW had announced that it won't put the Aston Martin Rapide rivalling CS into production due to the current economic slowdown. Earlier on this month, spy photographers have caught a slightly modified BMW 7 Series testing outside BMW's HQ in Munich, Germany.

The CS will be longer (around 5.1 metres/5100mm), lower and wider than the 7-series on which it’s based upon. The CS will rival the Mercedes CLS, Audi A7, Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera.

Look out for an introduction in late 2010.

Related link:

BMW CS canceled

Concept Car: Volvo S60

The current S60 has been on the market since 2000. Lately, sales have plummeted massively so the Swedish firm has redesigned the normally conservative S60 in an attempt to break into the hotly contested compact executive market. The newcomer will compete with the ever-popular BMW 3 Series, Mercedes C-Class, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 159, Cadillac BLS and the Jaguar X-Type.

According to design boss Steve Mattin, the final car will remain close to the concept. The imposing grille and flowing shoulder lines hint at a new design direction for Volvo’s range, while 20-inch alloys, bronze-painted brake calipers, integrated twin exhausts and a retractable rear diffuser show off the S60’s sporting intentions.

Inside is an ultra-modern interior, complete with slim bucket seats and a panoramic roof. The LED headlights project an image of Viking longboats, however, the most eye-catching feature are the doors. The front pair open conventionally, while the rears hinge out before sliding back. As the S60 has no B-pillars, access should prove easy.

The S60 will come stuffed with a raft of new safety kit, including sensors that can apply the brakes if a pedestrian steps into the car’s path.

Engines comprise a range of Ford and Volvo units, including a 2.0 litre diesel and a 1.6 litre turbo petrol. The new S60 is set to reach UK shores early 2010 but before that, it'll premier at next months Detroit motorshow.

Press Release:

The Volvo S60 Concept: An Insight into the Future of Volvo

The Volvo S60 Concept that will be unveiled at next month's North American International Auto

Show (NAIAS) providing a unique insight into the all-new Volvo S60 due in 2010.

"The all-new S60 will be one of the strongest players in a segment where the competition is razor-sharp," says Volvo Cars President and CEO Stephen Odell.

The coupe-inspired lines that gave the original S60 its characteristic stance are even more pronounced in the next generation.

"The sporty design gives visual promise of an enthusiastic drive and I can assure you here and now that the all-new S60 will live up to that promise. The driving properties are better than in any previous Volvo. The car's technology will help you to be a better and safer driver," says Stephen Odell.

Volvo S60 Concept Exterior - DNA at a new level:

The Volvo Cars design team has clearly upped the ante in the evolution of Volvo's design DNA.

"The concept car's exterior gives a clear indication of what customers can expect of the all-new S60. On the inside we've been even more daring - there the focus has been on creating a vision of the future in the slightly longer perspective," says Volvo Cars' design director Steve Mattin.

Scandinavian inspiration:

The front of the S60 Concept naturally sports the enlarged iron mark in the trapezoidal grille. The grille itself has a somewhat new appearance with structured horizontal vanes adding refinement to its form.

Two DNA lamps flank the grill, emphasising the vertical stance of the front and promoting the bonnet's V-shape. The DNA lamps also become the starting points of the fresh sculptural design language of the bumpers. The angled headlamps flow up into the strongly sculptured bonnet. Combined with the lower air intake's reverse trapezoidal shape, this gives the concept car a very expressive "face".

"Dynamic and with considerable character, but without appearing aggressive. This car is packed with inspiration from Scandinavian design and from the Swedish coastline's cliffs and seas. A thrilling blend of drama and sensuality," says Steve Mattin.

Viking longboats in the headlamps:

The concept car's headlamps unite classic Scandinavian influences with modern high-tech.

In each of the headlamps, the lights form a sculpture creating the image of two miniature Viking longboats sailing side by side, one for main beam and one for dipped beam. When driving in the dark, the light is reflected from the concealed, upward-facing High Performance LED bulbs, projected ahead by the ships' filled sails.

A closer look reveals a number of specially designed details. The compact cooling system for the LED bulbs has protruding cooling blocks made out of aluminium, semi-visible under the ships' hulls. The design creates the illusion of shimmering glass panels that float above a dark and mysterious Scandinavian sea.

The semi-transparent housing incorporates a layered ring-like formation that is part of the position lights. You can see the confident face of the concept car illuminating in a ring-like formation.

Double wave and sensational doors:

Viewed from the side, the concept car's slim coupe roofline and window graphics are accompanied by an entirely new lateral shoulder line, forming a gentle double wave. Stretching from the headlamps all the way to the tail, it adds emotional excitement and plays with the surface and its highlights.

The unique rear doors offer a spectacular show whenever they are opened and shut. Door movement starts off in the traditional way via the push of a button. In the next phase, the forward section swings out away from the car's body and the door glides parallel with the side of the car until it reaches its end position by the rear wheel.

Since the car does not have a B-pillar between the front and rear seats, this door configuration offers exceptionally generous entry and exit access.

Both the seven-spoke 20-inch wheels and the tread of the low-profile tyres have been specially designed to accentuate the concept car's muscular, sporty looks. The bronze-painted brake callipers match the car's 'Warm Liquid Copper' paintwork, which draws its inspiration from Sweden's rich copper mining history.

Inspiration from the racing track:

"In forthcoming models, you will see more and more of our "racetrack" design cues. The car's lines do not end abruptly but instead forge a continuous flowing pattern inspired by the fast sweeps of the racing track. In the concept car, this is particularly visible at the rear," says Steve Mattin.

The tail lamps, which follow the curve of the rear shoulders, are as advanced as the headlamps up front. When switched off, the lamp panels show no trace of the traditional red or yellow associated with rear lights. But when activated, the position marker lights, brake lights and turn indicators come on in their correct colours with the help of LED bulbs.

The lighting system's solid glass panel is sectioned into horizontal "slices" that create the visual impression of a three-dimensional architect drawing when the lights come on.

At the rear there is also a retractable diffuser that adjusts with vehicle speed to give better aerodynamic properties.

The S60 Concept Interior - a visionary celebration of Scandinavian design:

With the interior of the Volvo S60 Concept, Volvo Cars' design director Steve Mattin and his team are displaying a variety of spectacular ideas for future models.

"You could say that we are showing the road we would like to take in the future. This interior is without doubt the most exclusive we have ever created," says Steve Mattin.

The interior expresses a typically Scandinavian feel: fresh, light and airy. In the middle of the four-seater car glitters the jewel in the crown - a floating centre stack crafted from handmade, solid Orrefors crystal. It floats like a gentle, calm wave from the instrument panel all the way to the rear seat backrest.

"It resembles a waterfall that flows down from the instrument panel and then courses along the middle of the car's interior," says Steve Mattin.

The crystal panel appears to float above the centre stack and is partially framed by polished aluminium trim. With the help of invisible light sources, the crystal's shimmering glow can be tailored to match the driver's mood.

"If you want to explore the full scope of Scandinavian design, Sweden's glassworks are a natural source of inspiration. What is more, large glass panels are a central part of the very openness that characterises modern Swedish architecture," explains Steve Mattin.

Creativity and functionality:

Although the material in the centre stack radiates uninhibited artistic freedom, the interior's functionality remains.The gear selector has an entirely new, flexible design. In the horizontal standby position the car changes gear automatically. If the driver is in the mood for changing gear manually, the lever can be flipped up into the vertical position. Beside the gear selector there is also an integrated starter button and parking brake. The centre console runs all the way to the rear seat backrest, and under the crystal panel between the individual seats there are two drinks holders that elegantly slide out when required. Beside the driver's seat, the crystal console cuts straight through the instrument panel and its upper section forms a navigation screen at the precise height of the driver's combined instrument panel. At the bottom, the four iconic rotating controls protrude from elegant matt-polished recesses in the glass panel. In the middle there is a removable remote control.

"We've put the focus on ergonomics and safety. With the combined instrument at the same height as the navigation screen, all it takes is a horizontal eye movement to switch between the sources of information. Another example is that the controls used when you start and stop driving are a few centimetres from each other near the gear selector," explains Steve Mattin.

Driver-oriented environment:

The entire driving environment has been designed to provide convenient control. The driver is backed up by functional instruments, easily accessible controls and sophisticated technology that monitors the surrounding traffic, ready to alert the driver in the event of danger.

The combined instrument is similar in design to the unit in the Volvo XC60 Concept. It resembles a bumble-bee with a round speedometer as the "body" flanked by two digital "wings" providing all the other information.

"The speedometer is designed as a three-dimensional glass spiral. The low numbers appear closest to the eye and the figures appear to be increasingly distant as you accelerate. The idea is that the speedometer should provide a visual reminder of the force of the forward motion," explains Steve Mattin.

The combined instrument too has the centre stack's floating, almost weightless feel about it. The instrument is built up in several layers. In the gaps between the layers concealed vents contribute to better airflow inside the cabin.

Safety information in the head-up display:

Above the combined instrument, the driver receives information and alerts from the preventive safety systems via the windscreen's head-up display. Information from the car's Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is integrated in the A-pillars.

The three-spoke steering wheel has integrated multifunctional rotating controls. The open lightweight aluminium pedals echo the design language of the concept car's wheels.

Slim, floating leather seats:

The floating theme continues in the concept car's slim, lightweight contoured seats, made of soft Light Blond leather with contrasting stitching. The seats are attached to the centre console's lower section and inner sill, which means that they don't actually touch the floor.

Both the seat belt and the armrest are integrated into the seat itself. The backrest's pony-tail slot, first featured in previous concept cars, has a new, slightly asymmetrical design.

"The aim is to create a pleasant living-room atmosphere with gentle, invisible transfers between the various surfaces. For instance, the dark, ecologically tanned saddle leather on the floor continues up on the lower part of the door," relates Steve Mattin.

The upper part of the doors is faced with genuine blond birch wood of the same colour as the Scandinavian coastline's salt- and sun-bleached wooden piers and driftwood. Two parallel slits create a wave-shaped protrusion whose upper section forms a comfortable leather armrest.

The Volvo S60 Concept - One song with customer demands:

The Volvo S60 Concept was created to pave the way for Volvo Cars in one of the automotive world's most focused and competitive segments.

"Customers in this segment know exactly what they want. The emphasis is on emotional appeal, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. Success in the segment will do a lot for the brand's image and we are convinced that the all-new Volvo S60 is going to be a particularly strong contender," says Stephen Odell.

The first-generation Volvo S60 was launched in 2000 and was profiled as a coupe with four doors. The car's sporty nature has made the S60 one of Volvo Cars' most global models.

"Irrespective of whether the customers are in the USA, Europe or Russia, they all prioritise the same things. Now we are giving them an entirely new S60 packed with both emotional and rational appeal. A car designed to make a unique impact even among the most discerning buyers," says Stephen Odell.

New Car: 2010 BMW Z4

Despite bleak economic times, BMW will be looking to continue the long term success of its roadster series. At launch, the Z4 will be offered with three different engine options.

Flagship Z4 sDrive35i features the award winning 3.0 litre twin-turbocharged engine that has already been successfully deployed in the 135i and 335i. It pumps out 306bhp and 400Nm of torque/295lb-ft and enables the roadster to launch from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds. For those consumers looking to take the optional Double Clutch Transmission system, an extra 0.1 seconds is wiped off this acceleration figure. Top speed is electronically limited at 155mpg while it has good fuel economy of 30.1mpg combined for the manual and 31.4mpg combined for the Double Clutch system. The manual pumps out 219g/km of CO2 and he auto pumps out 210g/km.

The entry level Z4 sDrive23i gets a V6 powerplant with a displacement of 2,497cc, power output lies at 204bhp and 250Nm/184lb-ft of torque. Top speed is 151mph for the manual and 149mph for the Double-Clutch transmission. CO2 emissions are rated at 199g/km for the manual and 192g/km for the auto. Combined fuel economy is 33.2mpg for the manual and 34.4mpg for the automatic.

The final engine option is the sDrive30i with a 258bhp 3.0 litre engine with 210Nm/228lb-ft of torque. This has a top speed of 155mph for both transmissions with CO2 emissions of 199g/km for the manual and 195g/km for the auto. Both acheive around 33mpg - 34mpg combined.

All three powerplants abide by the strict EU5 emissions standard.

The new 2010 model features a retractable hard-top, the first time we have seen this in a BMW Z series model. Raised or lowered in 20 seconds, the hard-top weighs much more than the soft-top version offered in previous model series which is sure to hinder performance and gross vehicle weight. The new Z4 tips the scales at 1480kg, compared with the old model’s 1335kg weight. To counter this effect, the Bavarian automaker has introduced a host of new technologies, starting with the Adaptive M Suspension system. The ride height can be raised or lowered by up to 10mm with a choice of three different configurations. Additionally, the driving experience is enhanced with the Drive Dynamic Control function (another first for the Z series) which dynamically alters both the steering and throttle responses. There’s a lengthy wheelbase of 2496mm, with overhangs of just 850mm at the front and 893mm at the rear. The whole car measures 4239mm, just over 100mm longer than the outgoing model.

The world debut is scheduled for the Detroit motorshow next month with UK sales beginning May 2009. UK prices are expected to start £27,000 for the entry-level Z4 sDrive23i and rise to £45,000 for the range-topping Z4 sDrive35i with the dual-clutch transmission. In Germany, the Z4 sDrive23i is priced at €35,900, €6,000 more than the current model. Next up is the Z4 sDrive30i €42,900, €10,000 more than the current model. Flagship Z4 sDrive35i starts at €47,450, €5,000 more.

Press Release:

More power, more efficiency, & more comfort. Two all-new BMW Z4 Roadster models raise the standard for style and dynamic performance.

Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debuts at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11.

Return of a Classic:

The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster.

The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster.

To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 litres: 300bhp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255bhp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times.

Comprehensive use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies serves to provide an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Featuring Dynamic Drive Control as standard, the BMW Z4 enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Design: the modern look of a classic roadster:

The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle.

The front view features a large, upright BMW kidney grille, wide air intake and the dual round headlights, typical of the BMW brand. All surfaces and lines, including the character lines on the hood, strive towards an imaginary target point on the road ahead.

The side view is dominated by the dynamic flow of the car’s shoulder line connecting the front and rear wheel arches and accentuating the stretched, athletic look of the Roadster. The horizontal orientation of the car’s lines and surfaces at the rear, in turn, emphasizes the sheer width of the new BMW Z4. Further characteristics are the extra-large hood extending far over the wheel arches, the black A-pillars, the gills at the side with their integrated LED direction indicators, as well as the slender rear fixtures with three-dimensional LED-fed rows of light.
Stylish, sophisticated, and typical of a genuine roadster: the interior.

For harmonious unison of the exterior and interior so important in an open-air car, the shoulder line is reflected by the door panels with their unique configuration and flow from front to rear.

The contoured surface to the left and right of the steering wheel incorporates the controls for the lights and air conditioning. These elements are available trimmed in Satin Silver matte, Brushed Aluminum, and Ash Grain Wood, the respective color and trim variant also being used on the center console and door handle.

The standard seats with integrated headrests on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i feature high-quality Kansas leather in a choice of three colors. A fourth choice, Ivory White Nappa leather, is also available as part of the Exclusive Ivory White Leather Package, which includes sport seats and Anthracite wood trim.

An Extended Leather option (Z4 sDrive35i only) adds leather on the upper section of the instrument panel, the doorsills, the sun visors in Black leather as well as the leather-finish door closing handles in upholstery color on the passenger’s side.

The entire range of paintwork colors available on the new BMW Z4 is made up of no less than nine color tones including Orion Silver metallic exclusive to the new Roadster.

Cycling in 20 seconds: the retractable hardtop:

The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the ­characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor.

This innovative roof system offers outstanding acoustic and aerodynamic qualities and sets a new standard in the Z4’s segment. Large windows and the high-quality roof lining give the hardtop a light look. Driver and passenger enjoy a bright ambience, generous space, and optimum visibility. Compared with the former model, the side windows are 40% larger, the see-through area in the rear window 52% larger, and all-round visibility increased 14% over the previous generation.

The glass rear window in the hardtop is equipped with an electric defroster and the four side windows of the new BMW Z4 may be lowered individually. The higher roofline and larger door openings allow easier and more convenient access with the roof closed.

The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects.

Flexible storage with optional through-loading:

The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed.

The moveable partition in the new BMW Z4 is unique in the premium roadster segment, and offers enough luggage space with the hardtop open for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase.
Using the optional through-loading system to the passenger compartment, the Z4 is able to accommodate a 46-inch full-size golf bag. When the roof is closed the luggage compartment easily accommodates up to four crates of large bottles or – when using the through-loading system – two 46-inch golf bags.

Various other storage compartments are designed into the interior. The new Z4 offers storage trays in the center console, a 10-litre glove box, hinged compartments in the doors, and additional space behind the seats.

Included with the Cold Weather Package is a storage package that provides an even wider range of storage and loading functions, with fastening nets on the rear panels of the seats and in the passenger’s footwell, lashing belts in the luggage compartment, as well as a storage box in the bulkhead leading to the luggage compartment.

Optional through-loading system together with a transport bag ensures even greater versatility, allowing the user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring up to 67" in length.

A successful concept with a great tradition: inline-6 engines in the BMW Roadster:

Elegant roadster lines, the BMW kidney grille, and a inline-6 engine form a combination that, in 1934, made the BMW 315/1 an unprecedented success both on the road and in motorsport. That combination has been retained to this day in the BMW Z4.

The new Z4 is therefore being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. These unique engines exhibit refinement and fast-revving response typical of a BMW six-cylinder, offering an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel efficiency in the premium roadster segment thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. The individual versions of the new BMW Z4 come with on-demand management and control of the car’s accessory drives, a variable oil pump, intelligent lightweight technology, and optimized aerodynamics.

BMW Z4 sDrive35i: performance with efficiency thanks to Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection:

The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase.

The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm.

Maximum output of 300bhp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

High Precision Injection is a key element in the Z4’s efficient performance. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber offers a cooling effect allowing a higher compression ratio and optimized combustion efficiency. This second generation of direct gasoline injection developed by BMW ensures significant benefits in fuel efficiency without restricting the dynamic qualities of the engine.

The 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine: powerful and light thanks to magnesium:

Offering spontaneous power and performance, excellent motoring refinement and outstanding efficiency, the 6-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i again offers the very best in its segment. Weighing just 355 lb thanks to its composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, cylinder head cover made of a special synthetic material and lightweight camshafts with aluminum VANOS control unit, is exceptionally light.

While BMW’s VALVETRONIC engine management controls valve stroke on the intake valves, double-VANOS varies the angle of the intake and outlet valves in an infinite process. This allows particularly efficient use of fuel, providing a “beefy” torque curve and giving the engine instant response.

The engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i develops maximum output of 255bhp from 3.0 litres capacity at an engine speed of 6,600 rpm. Maximum torque of 220 lb-ft, in turn, comes at just 2,600 rpm.

With this kind of power, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (with optional sport automatic in 6.0 seconds). Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

6-speed transmission with short gearshift travel featured as standard:

All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Developed specifically for BMW’s new Roadster, the various transmission options are particularly sporting in their character. Indeed, this is borne out in particular by extremely short gearshift travel much shorter than on all other current BMW models with a manual gearshift.

Optional: 7-speed sport automatic with double clutch and 6-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters:

As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i with its seven-speed sport automatic accelerates to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds, while fuel consumption is expected to outperform the fuel economy on the same model with a manual gearbox.

Sport automatic gives the driver the choice of either automatic (Program D) or manual gear selection. If desired, the driver may shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel.

The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. Indeed, the characteristics of the car are attributable to the direct connection linking the transmission to the engine, based on modern torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper, avoiding unnecessary slip and therefore helping to eliminate any loss of power and performance. Even the slightest movement of the gas pedal, therefore, is converted spontaneously into a quick response with gearshift times reduced to a minimum.

The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Sophisticated suspension technology, high-performance ­lightweight brakes:

Rear-wheel drive, near perfect weight distribution, the long wheelbase and the low center of gravity on the roadster create ideal conditions for supreme agility.

Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car.

Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver.

The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the centre console.

Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tyres as well as a Tyre Pressure Monitor.

BMW’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serves not only to activate the ABS brakes and ensure stability on slippery surfaces by activating the brakes or reducing engine power, but also comprises other functions such as Brake Drying and Brake Standby as well as a Start-Off Assistant. Acting in a similar way to a mechanical limited slip differential, DSC electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a limited slip differential for stronger acceleration in turns.

Activating Dynamic Traction Control at the touch of a button, the driver is able to raise the response thresholds for intervention by the DSC, thus enjoying the option, for example, to set off on loose snow with the drive wheels slightly spinning. And when desired, the driver is also able to deactivate DSC altogether (ABS remains active).

Adaptive M Suspension featuring Electronic Damping Control (EDC):

The agility of the BMW Roadster may be further enhanced by ordering the optional Sport Package featuring Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control. A central control unit varies the “compression” and “rebound” stages on the four twin-sleeve gas pressure dampers to provide optimum response at all times. The response time is so fast that a signal coming from a front wheel crossing a hole in the road reaches and re-adjusts the rear dampers even before the rear wheels reach the same uneven road surface.

Comfort and sportiness in one: Dynamic Drive Control:

Dynamic Drive Control allows the driver of the new Z4 to choose the drive characteristics of the car. In addition to changing damper forces on the Adaptive M Suspension, DDC also conditions the responses of the gas pedal, the power steering, and the response thresholds of Dynamic Stability Control. And if the car is fitted with either sport automatic transmission, the adaptive gearshift logarithms are adjusted.

The driver operates Dynamic Drive Control via a button on the center console next to the gear selector. By pressing the button, s/he is able to choose from the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, thus activating a pre-configured, perfectly balanced set-up. The SPORT mode, for example, offers more-direct steering behavior and a more-direct response to the gas pedal. The SPORT+ mode, in turn, serves additionally to activate the Dynamic Traction Control mode of DSC, intentionally allowing slight wheelspin and thus enabling the driver to take a bend in a controlled drift.

Extra space, more safety:

The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3".
Apart from all-round visibility, the interior offers greater headroom (+0.20"), extra shoulder room (+0.79") and more elbow freedom (+1.69"). The door opening, increased in size by 1.02", allows even more convenient access with the roof closed.

The extremely stiff bodyshell, lightweight construction and near 50/50 weight distribution enhance both the safety and agility of the new BMW Z4. High load-resistant subframes, optimum use of crush zones, the extremely stiff passenger cell and highly efficient restraint systems ensure outstanding accident safety. Frontal and head/thorax airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the sensor-controlled electronic safety system as a function of the type and severity of a collision. The head/thorax airbags are integrated on the outside of the seat backrests and inflate over a large surface in the event of a collision from the side.

Making its premiere in the BMW Roadster: the latest generation of iDrive:

The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4 the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

The system itself is made up of a Controller on the center console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions.

Pressing the direct selection buttons on the newly configured Controller, the user is able to spontaneously change to the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The range of direct selection buttons has now been rounded off by the three MENU, BACK and OPTION command buttons, and programmable favorite buttons in the instrument panel allow the user to save and directly select radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, and other menu items available directly through iDrive.

Measuring 8.8 inches in size, the high-resolution Control Display with its resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics or pages from the internet. A picture of the Controller shown in the Control Display gives the driver greater and clearer orientation in choosing the next step in the operating process.

Using the navigation system is even easier thanks to iDrive. Full-screen map presentation, for example, offers an incomparably detailed overview of the region in which the driver is currently traveling. As an alternative the Control Display also offers an assistance window presenting further highlights and maps independent of the main map.

With navigation data saved on an 80 GB hard disc installed in the car, access times are faster than before. And at the same time the hard disc may also be used as a 15 GB music archive.

Roadster-specific climate comfort and leather with Sun Reflective Technology:

The new BMW Z4 is equipped as standard with air conditioning and seven blower stages. Optional automatic climate control allows separate temperature selection on the driver’s and passenger’s side, individual, automatic temperature control in five stages of intensity, and manual adjustment of air stratification. With the roof open, automatic climate control includes convertible mode.

Like BMW’s Convertibles, the leather in the new Roadster incorporates Sun Reflective Technology. A special, highly innovative type of leather on the seats, interior panels, and steering wheel that significantly reduces the heat effect of bright sunshine: Treatment of the leather in Sun Reflective Technology serves to integrate special color pigments into the material to reflect infrared radiation in the sunlight.

Top-end audio and communication systems:

The audio systems available in the new BMW Z4 set standards in the segment in every respect.
The CD player fitted as regular series equipment also serves to play music files in the MP3 format. The available premium hi-fi system comes with up to 14 loudspeakers and two additional subwoofers for an intense and precise experience in sound, with amplifier output of up to 650 watts. A standard AUX-In port is provided, allowing the integration of various external MP3 player. A 6-disc CD/DVD changer in the glove compartment is also available.

A Bluetooth interface is available in conjunction with optional BMW Assist to offer greater safety and convenience for making telephone calls while driving. To fully integrate the latest smartphones in the car, the new BMW Z4 is also available with a smart phone integration option.

New production plant: BMW Roadster coming from Regensburg:

The new BMW Z4 is built at BMW Plant Regensburg alongside the 3 Series and the BMW 1 Series. This is because BMW Plant Spartanburg, where the former model was built, is concentrating from now on entirely on the production of BMW’s X models.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM: Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind:

The 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be ordered separately as a stand-alone option.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM includes:

The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items.

BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry’s most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice.

BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty:

All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW’s excellent Limited Warranty, which includes:

New-vehicle warranty – four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle.

Rust-perforation warranty – 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage.

BMW AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.

The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW.

TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.

BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times, as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system (if so equipped) and the customer’s Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows those vehicles equipped with both the BMW Navigation and BMW Assist system to gain online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.

Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit http://www.bmwassist.com/.

Performance with a conscience:

BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission control in production; environmentally responsible selection of materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.

Audi S4 pricing announced (UK)

Audi has released prices for its new four-wheel drive supercharged S4. The S4 will come in both saloon and estate bodystyles producing 329bhp from the 3.0 litre V6 petrol engine.

The S4 saloon will cost £34,225, while the estate version, the Audi S4 Avant, will cost £35,570. Customers will also be able to specify a new 7 speed twin-clutch DSG transmission, which costs an additional £1,420 in the saloon and £1,230 in the estate.

The new V6 engine is cleaner and more efficient than the outgoing 4.2 litre V8, and will return 29.1mpg on the combined cycle. The new Audi S4 will also be quicker than the previous model, reaching 62mph in 5.1 seconds. The S4 will launch in April 2009.

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