Daihatsu Gran Max

GM likely to regain top dog status given Toyota

2011-04-28T21:10:00.000-07:00

GM was the leading automaker in the world in terms of sales volume from 1932 to 2008.
Toyota was able to surpass GM when the Detroit automaker hit the skids back in 2008/2009 and had to file for bankruptcy.
But now, the Japanese automaker is plagued by production problems in Japan due to the earthquake/tsunami disaster that struck the country in March. The disaster has crippled automobile production in that country, hitting suppliers and disrupting the supply chain.
Toyota simply will not be able to build enough cars to retain the global number one spot Toyota sales have also been affected by a string of recalls over the last couple of years that have hurt the brand's image of quality and reliability. Toyota has had to recall a total of 14 million vehicles over that period.
And GM has enjoyed its own success. It emerged from bankruptcy very quickly and last year came within 30,000 units of Toyota. In 2010, Toyota sold 8.42 million vehicles while GM sold 8.39 million.

Lincoln MKS EcoBoost

2011-03-29T00:43:00.001-07:00

Lincoln MKS EcoBoost When the young parking attendant turned the car over to me, he said, “Boy, this Lincoln is a BIG car!” That provided a bit of a chuckle. Sure it’s a rather large vehicle by modern standards, but for those who grew up with the land yachts of the Lincoln brand’s past, it seems like a svelte speedboat.

A 1963 Lincoln had yards of slab sided steel reaching 213-inches from front to back, weighed in at two-and-a-half tons, and rode on a pillowy soft 123-inch wheelbase. One could move the steering wheel 10 degrees on either side of dead center with barely a move of the front wheels. Making a right turn at anything above parade speed would send one’s girlfriend sliding across the bench leather seat and right into the driver’s outstretched right arm – a feature not listed in the sales brochure, but often a valuable benefit to the driver nonetheless.Lincoln MKS EcoBoost But at the time, when no self respecting investment banker, captain of industry, or Mafia Don would be caught dead in a Mercedes Benz or BMW, it was the height of conspicuous luxury consumption.

Hyundai Equus Gets Priced

2010-10-19T23:40:00.000-07:00

Hyundai Equus Gets Priced At $58,000

If the Hyundai Equus doesn’t wake you up to the fact that something has drastically changed at Hyundai, we don’t know what will. The brand has quickly gone from an also-ran to a product leader in the marketplace .

Hyundai has consistently pushed the envelope at a breakneck pace with its rear-wheel drive Genesis sedan and Coupe models. The best example yet of how far Hyundai has progressed comes in the form of the Equus – and its price tag.

$58,000 – yes you read that right….$58,000 for a Hyundai. 5 or 10 years ago that would have been unthinkable. However, today it is a different story.

The Equus differentiates itself from failed attempts at the luxury segment such as Volkswagen’s Phaeton by its value proposition. While the Phaeton was priced similarly to established competitors, the Equus undercuts them significantly.

Second, development cost and need to recoup investment is much less – the Equus business case made sense selling exclusively in its home market of South Korea. In the United States, selling the $58,000 Equus improves Hyundai’s image and makes selling $20-30K Sonatas all that much easier.

To make things simple, there is two models available: the $58,000 Equus Signature and the $64,500 Equus Ultimate. The Equus Ultimate is primarily concerned with an added luxury experience for the rear passengers.

Ultimate has a luxurious four-passenger configuration with 50/50 split rear seats, passenger-side rear seat leg support and massage system, cooled rear seats and a rear-seat entertainment system with eight-inch monitor.

It doesn’t end there though, there is also a thermoelectric rear center console refrigerator, rear-seat power up/down head restraints with manual tilt, rear-seat, illuminated vanity mirrors, forward-view cornering camera and power trunk lid. What a list!

One of the attractive things about the Equus is the amazing level of service Hyundai has put in place for buyers. The car has maintenance covered for 5 years or 60,000 miles and that includes things such as complimentary oil and filter changes, brake pads and rotors, wiper blades, and car battery.

There is also valet pickup and drop-off of the vehicle at your home for any servicing, with a Genesis or Equus loaner vehicle provided while the car is at the dealership. How is that for pampered luxury service?

Competitors will have to step up their game now, as they aren’t offering that level of service. That could end up being a big selling point for the Equus, as that isn’t expected at the $58,000 level.

Now the question is sales figures – will American luxury buyers respond to a $58,000 Hyundai?

9 out of 10 say phoning while driving should be illegal

2010-09-26T22:21:00.000-07:00

We all know that driving while talking on the cell phone is a distraction. Even if you say you're a good driver with superior multi-tasking skills, blabbing on a phone while piloting a two-ton automobile is a quick way to show that you are in fact not smarter than a fifth grader. Don't let Jeff Foxworthy and his band of miscreants shame you, though... nearly all of us have done it in a moment of weakness. A recent survey of 1,000 motorists found that 90 percent believe that talking on the phone while driving should be illegal. The flip side is that 51 percent of that same data set admit they have used their phone while out on the road.

The survey, sponsored by the Chubb Group of Insurance Companies, highlights an interesting paradox in our thinking – the "it won't happen to me" notion. A majority of us agree that doing something is dangerous yet we do it anyway, even when we think it should be illegal. We believe we're somehow better than the folks who get in the distracted-driving car accidents but we're exhibiting similar behavior. We eat food, send texts, read our Kindles, call mom and check e-mail while we should be paying more attention to the road. It's not just about making sure your vehicle is heading where it's supposed to go but to also maintain awareness of what's happening around you – and that's extremely difficult to do when typing out "LOL, OMG-guy nxt 2 me drvng CRZY!!11!"

Check out the official press release after the jump for more details on the survey.

BMW 550i, an AW Drivers Log

2010-07-20T22:47:00.000-07:00

I laughed out loud when I saw the price of this thing. It's a nice car, though. It's solid, fast, really well built, good-looking and it checks all the midsize-sedan boxes.

The interior works really well with an iDrive knob, which looks straight out of the 7-series.

Until you get the tach up over 3,500 rpm, it doesn't really feel like 400 hp under the hood. To really hustle the car, you have to work the eight-speed gearbox manually, but it's a smooth shifter so that's not exactly a hardship. The car is heavy but drives like a much smaller, lighter car. The steering is precise, and the adjustable suspension (comfort, normal, sport, sport plus) worked best in normal, in my opinion.

The 535i starts at $50k, which is a sticker that's much easier to swallow.

2011 BMW 550i Sedan

Base Price: $60,575

As-Tested Price: $75,100

Drivetrain: 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8; RWD, eight-speed automatic

Output: 400 hp @ 5,500-6,400 rpm, 450 lb-ft @ 1,750-4,500 rpm

Curb Weight: 4,376 lb

Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 20/17.7 mpg

Options: Dynamic handling package including adaptive driver with active roll stabilization, dynamic damping ($2,700); premium package 2 with rearview camera, rear sunshades, heated front seats, iPod and USB adapter, satellite radio with one-year subscription, premium hi-fi system ($2,400); sport package with 19-inch alloy wheels, sports leather steering wheel, multicontour seats ($2,200); driver assistance package with automatic high beams, lane-departure warning, active blind-spot detection, parking assistant ($1,750); convenience package with comfort access keyless entry ($1,700); head-up display ($1,300); cold-weather package with heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, retractable headlight washers ($1,050); side- and top-view cameras ($800); split fold-down rear seat ($475); smartphone integration ($150)

NHTSA claims Toyota unintended acceleration may have claimed

2010-06-02T15:26:00.000-07:00

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is now estimating that 89 deaths may be attributable to unintended acceleration in Toyota vehicles here in the United States between the year 2000 and May of 2009. Previously, it was reported that 52 deaths were possibly related to the throttle defect.

This figure has been extrapolated from NHTSA's database of the roughly 6,200 complaints it has received over that same time period. In addition to the 89 deaths, 57 injuries have also been tallied. Toyota reminds us that these figures are estimates, saying in a statement:

Many complaints in the NHTSA database, for any manufacturer, lack sufficient detail that could help identify the cause of an accident. We will continue to work in close partnership with law enforcement agencies and federal regulators with jurisdiction over accident scenes whenever requested.

According to Toyota, some 1.67 million sticky accelerator pedals and 1.62 million floor mats have so far been fixed under recall, with roughly 120,000 being performed per week on average.

New Renault Wind Coupe-Roadster

2010-04-12T04:09:00.000-07:00

Renault's UK division has released pricing and specification details for its Wind Coupé-Roadster. Customer ordering for the Wind, which is offered with the choice of two engines, a 133HP 1.6-liter or a 100HP 1.2-liter turbo, opens in May for first deliveries in July with prices ranging from £15,500 to £18,200.

In addition, the new two-seater model will be available to pre-order later in April in an exclusive, range-topping "Collection" limited edition guise, of which only 200 examples will make their way to Britain.

The standard range is offered in two trim levels. The base Dynamique comes equipped with ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), front and lateral driver and passenger airbags, brake assist, ESC, immobiliser and electric retracting hard top roof as standard

Moving up to the Dynamique S adds 2x35W radio CD MP3 reader with fingertip remote control, 17-inch alloys, auto lights and wipers, alarm system, Bluetooth connectivity and multi-functional TunePoint (USB connection).

Finally, the limited edition Collection includes several more standard goodies such as electrically adjustable and heated chrome effect door mirrors, carbon black leather-faced heated seats, gloss black retractable roof, red and chrome dash inserts, leather sport wheel and gearknob, aluminium pedals, subtle 'Collection' side and boot badges, plus double chrome roof cover cowls.

Full pricing for Wind Coupé-Roadster is outlined below. Insurance groups have yet to be finalised, but are expected to be competitive.

Version	Engine	OTR Price
Dynamique	1.2 TCe 100	£15,500
Dynamique	1.6 VVT 133	£16,400
Dynamique S	1.2 TCe 100	£16,400
Dynamique S	1.6 VVT 133	£17,300
Collection limited edition	1.2 TCe 100	£17,300
Collection limited edition	1.6 VVT 133	£18,200

Keunggulan Daihatsu Gran Max

2010-01-20T12:24:00.000-08:00

Kali ini kita membicarakan versi Mobil Gran Max berkode Daihatsu Grand Max D88D, kayaknya mobil yang satu ini udah sayup2 kedengaran keberadaannya. Memang ada berberapa media massa yang masih meliput keberadaannya, tetapi teman gw yang menjadi telik sandi (red. mata-mata) di PT. ADM (PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor)/ Daihatsu Dealers membocorkan spesifikasi mobil Daihatsu Grand Max D88D tersebut. Gw pun mencoba mengutak-atiknya di komputer. Hasilnya bisa dibilang ciamik!

Ini adalah gambar kira-kira D88D yang gw buat berdasarkan keterangan telik sandi tersebut. Mobil ini jelas berbasis Mobil Grand Max, hanya saja D88D dilengkapi berbagai fitur, interior dan eksterior yang jauh berbeda dibanding saudaranya itu. Dilihat dari eksterior, nampak muka depan berbeda total. Gril yang besar dan mata yang eksotis dipadu dengan bumper yang terlihat anggun menjadikan mobil ini seakan-akan berubah genre dari mobil niaga menjadi MPV seperti kakaknya Alphard. Ban dan Velg pun turut diperbesar agar mobil ini seimbang dengan bodinya yang besar.

Sekarang kita ganti topik ke interior, ada kemungkinan bakal diisi dengan pernak-pernik mirip Terios. Dengan segala kelengkapan itu sudah menjadikan Gran Max Daihatsu D88D nampak berkelas. Bahkan konon akan ada penambahan Airbag, ABS, EBD dan Parking Sensor. Hal ini masih dipertanyakan namun melihat basisnya dari Daihatsu Gran Max yang tentu saja besar, nampaknya point ke empat memang harus dipasang sebab mobil ini memang kelewat lebar. Namun dengan basis Daihatsu Gran Max dapat dikatakan mobil yang satu ini sangat lapang dan kepraktisannya tak akan mengecewakan.

Oh iya, hampir lupa soal mesin, mesin D88D masih sama dengan Daihatsu Gran Max yang berkode 3SZ-VE. Tapi ada kemungkinan rasio perpindahan gigi sama seperti Gran Max yang mengakibatkan tenaga menurun 97 hp. Hal ini demi menambahkan torsi untuk menarik beban penumpang. Menurut telik sandi ini, Grand Max Daihatsu D88D akan dijual dalam rentang 110 juta sampai 140 juta dan dijual kira-kira akhir tahun ini. Untuk lebih jelas silahkan lihat Daihatsu Mobil dan Dealers Daihatsu

Yang jelas, Suzuki APV Arena akan terkena pukulan oleh mesin uang Daihatsu berikutnya ini. Pokoknya gw masih terus melacak rencana Daihatsu ini. Panaaass…. masih panasss…

Astra-Daihatsu ( GranMax D88 ) Vs Indomobil-Suzuki (APV )

2010-01-20T12:23:00.000-08:00

Mungkin jika ada yang tahu... di Tahun 2009 ini, Katanya Daihatsu sudah menjadi pemain otomotif nomor 3 Di Indonesia, menggeser Suzuki di Nomor 4. Entah karena Indomobil yang sedang melempem karena ditinggal iconnya Mr.Soebronto Laras atau memang karena semakin solidnya group Toyota ( Sister Company Daihatsu ) di Indonesia.

Mungkin juga kita tau juga, Mobil Daihatsu Gran Max.. dengan Tagline "Masih MuAat"
baik untuk Pick-Up ataupun untuk MiniBusnya. Di jalan sudah semakin banyak, dan jika kita berjalan-jalan di daerah Kota - Mangga2 akan terlihat adanya peremajaan angkot. Dimana biasanya angkot di kota adalah Toyota Kijang Capsule, Sekarang yang banyak berseliweran adalah Gran-Max.

Walaupun jujur, menurut penulis. Bentuk Depan dari Gran-Max agak-agak lucu, dan sangat tipikal dengan MiniBus.

Penulis mempunyai sedikit Informasi nie. terkait dengan Informasi dari Koran Otomotif edisi minggu 1 February, Tentang ancang-ancang keluarnya New ModeL untuk Daihatsu GranMax dengan COde D88.
Analis penulis, mobil baru tersebut akan head-to Head dengan APV nya Indomobil Suzuki. Jika begitu hal ini akan semakin memanaskan situasi persaingan diantara dua Perusahaan Otomotif besar nasional - Astra dengan Daihatsunya Vs Indomobil dengan Suzukinya. Situasi yang kentara juga terjadi di dunia Motor antara Yamaha Vs Honda.

Penulis memiliki Bocoran nie, dari Kenalan Penulis yang bekerja di Daihatsu::

Spesifikasi standar dari D88 ::

Interior
Setelah tampilan luar, dalamnya pun turut dipermewah. Salah satunya seluruh interior dibuat bernuansa cokelat layaknya Daihatsu Terios. Baik lapisan jok, doortrim hingga kelir dasbor dan steering wheel. Sementara itu, model dasbor juga memakai kepunyaan Gran Max dengan tuas transmisi menempel di tengah. Bentuk steering wheel masih mempertahankan model lama. Namun head unit diganti dengan 2-DIN kepunyaan Terios.

Selain itu, model jok tengah dan belakang turut diubah untuk menambah kenyamanan. Yakni, semua bangku menghadap ke depan (front facing) dan menggunakan model Flexi Seat mirip Terios. So, jok belakang maupun tengah bisa dilipat dan diatur dengan mudah.

Mesin dan Transmisi
Mesin tetap mengusung milik Gran Max. Namun, di varian barunya nanti tidak lagi tersedia mesin 1.300 cc, hanya disiapkan versi 1.500 cc (3SZ-VE) seperti yang juga diaplikasi di Terios dan Toyota Avanza S.

Bocorannya:: Katanya sudah Integrated ABS ( Auto-Breaking System ) Ntah Benar atau Tidak

Harga
Untuk harga jualnya, pihak ADM belum berani mengungkapkannya. Tapi, berdasar sumber, Gran Max Van ini bakal dilego di kisaran Rp 120-130 jutaan (OTR). Itu artinya, sedikit lebih mahal dari banderol Gran Max 1.5 D PS Optima (tipe tertinggi) yang seharga Rp 121,650 juta (OTR).

Sedangkan bila disanding dengan kompetitor yang sama-sama bermesin 1.500 cc, Gran Max baru ini lebih kompetitif. Contoh APV Arena paling murah dijual Rp 143,5 juta (tipe GX M/T). Sementara New Avanza paling murah Rp 152,4 juta (tipe S M/T).

Summary::
Jadi Yag patut kita tunggu adalah, apakah Indomobil bakal diam saja ??
Sperti sudah jatuh, tertimpa tangga, Dimana Maket Share direbut, kemudian Unit kebanggaannya yaitu Suzuki APV - Arena juga sednag dicecar !!!
Kita Tunggu Saja Gebrakan dari INDOMOBIL !!!!

DRIVEN - Daihatsu Gran Max

2010-01-20T12:22:00.001-08:00

A new entrant into the one ton bakkie market strikes up a nice surprise

Daihatsu has added its name to the list of one ton pickups on the market with its variation, name the Gran Max.

This vehicle was introduced with value in mind. Daihatsu looked at the market and saw a gap for a full one ton pickup at the price of three quarter ton bakkie. The Gran Max was thus introduced to us at the amazing price of R120 000.

Inside it is quite Spartan of luxuries but the bakkie is marketed at the start up businessman. It is a pure run-about vehicle, perfect for transporting goods with its large load bin and one ton capacity. Up front there is space for three (at a squeeze) as the gear lever is mounted on the dashboard to provide extra room for the passengers.

The engine is a 1.5-litre petrol, which does a good job of ferrying loads around town, even under the full one ton load the Daihatsu felt quite strong and easily pulled up hills, surprising us for such a small capacity engine. It puts out 77kW and 140Nm of torque, not bad figures for a 1.5.

Safety-wise though the Daihatsu doesn’t offer too much, safety belts are present and crumple zones in the front are the only other protection that the Gran Max offers.

Daihatsu Gran Max minibus and pickup

2010-01-20T12:21:00.001-08:00

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd has just announced the Daihatsu Gran Max, a new light commercial vehicle manufactured at P.T. Astra Daihatsu Motor in Indonesia, aiming to meet the increasing demand in Indonesia for light commercial vehicles.

The Daihatsu Gran Max comes in two body styles, a pick up truck and a minibus. The pick up truck rear can be configured as you wish – in the photos after the jump you will be able to see a classic pick up truck bed as well as a storage box.

The minibus body is the only one in its class with sliding rear doors on both sides. It also has class-leading load capacity.

Powering the Gran Max is either a 1.3 liter DOHC VVT-i or 1.5 liter DOHC VVT-i engine, which should be the 85hp K3-VE and the 107hp 3SZ-VE.

Perhaps this will be offered in Malaysia sometime soon too as a Daihatsu or a Perodua? Perhaps as a Rusa replacement.

More photos of different body styles and the interior after the jump.

Daihatsu Gran Max Minibus

2010-01-20T12:20:00.000-08:00

(Gambar)

	Mulai Dari Rp 92.800.000,-
	Dapatkan Granmax Minibus Dengan Cashback Rp 2Jt GRAN MAX BV 1.3 92.800.000 GRAN MAX BV 1.3 AC 96.800.000 GRAN MAX BV 1.3 AMBULANCE 112.700.000 GRAN MAX BV 1.3 AC AMBULANCE 117.200.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D 109.700.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D SD 112.300.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D FF 112.800.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D FF PW 114.050.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D OPTIMA 115.700.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D FF OPTIMA 118.800.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 D FAMILIA 121.000.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.3 F AC, RT 107.500.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D 118.750.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D OPTIMA 124.750.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS 121.150.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS SD 123.750.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS FF 124.250.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS FF PW 125.500.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS OPTIMA 127.150.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS FF OPTIMA 130.250.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 D PS GRAN FAMILIA 135.250.000 GRAN MAX MB 1.5 F PS, AC 118.150.000

Daihatsu Gran Max

2010-01-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

Harga Mobil Daihatsu Gran Max Baru dan Bekas (Seken). As a priority vehicle for business purposes, Gran Max minibus is designed to have the largest cabin space of its kind. Gran Max minibuses can be used to transport 9 to 11 adult passengers or goods in large quantities.

Harga Daihatsu Gran Max Baru (October 2009)

Daihatsu Gran Max Car Type	Price (Rupiah)
BV 1.3	92.800.000
BV 1.3 AC	96.800.000
MB (MiniBus) 1.3 D	109.700.000
MB 1.3 D SD	112.300.000
MB 1.3 D FF	112.800.000
MB 1.3 D FF PW	114.050.000
MB 1.3 D OPTIMA	115.700.000
MB 1.3 D FF OPTIMA	118.800.000
MB 1.3 D FAMILIA	121.000.000
MB 1.3 F AC. RT	107.500.000
MB 1.5 D	118.750.000
MB 1.5 D OPTIMA	124.750.000
MB 1.5 D PS	121.150.000
MB 1.5 D PS SD	123.750.000
MB 1.5 D PS FF	124.250.000
MB 1.5 D PS FF PW	125.500.000
MB 1.5 D PS OPTIMA	127.150.000
MB 1.5 D PS FF OPTIMA	130.250.000
MB 1.5 D PS GRAN FAMILIA	135.250.000
MB 1.5 F PS.AC	118.150.000
PU (Pick Up) 1.3 STD	83.400.000
PU 1.3 SUPER	86.100.000
PU 1.3 AC	87.400.000
PU 1.3 3W	83.400.000
PU 1.3 3W AC	87.400.000
PU BOX CHASIS 1.3 STD	82.400.000
PU BOX 1.3 STD	95.500.000
PU BOX 1.3 SLIDING	97.200.000
PU AC BOX 1.3 STD	99.500.000
PU AC BOX 1.3 SLIDING	101.200.000
PU 1.5 STD	88.000.000
PU 1.5 SUPER	90.700.000
PU 1.5 PS	90.400.000
PU 1.5 AC PS	94.400.000
PU 1.5 3W	88.000.000
PU 1.5 3W PS	90.400.000
PU 1.5 3W AC PS	94.400.000
PU BOX CHASIS 1.5 STD	87.000.000
PU BOX 1.5 STD	100.100.000
PU BOX 1.5 SLIDING	101.800.000
PU PS BOX 1.5 STD	102.500.000
PU PS BOX 1.5 SLIDING	104.200.000
PU PS AC BOX 1.5 STD	106.500.000
PU PS AC BOX 1.5 SLIDING	108.200.000

Harga Daihatsu Gran Max Bekas / Seken

Daihatsu Gran Max Car Type	Year	Price (Juta Rupiah)
Gran Max 1.3 D	2008	85 – 95
Gran Max 1.5 D	2008	90 – 100
Gran Max 1.5 D Optima	2008	100 – 110

Note : The car price displayed here can be different from the actual price on the dealer or the seller depend on some factors.

Information Summary

Besides Gran Max Minibus, Daihatsu also produced Gran Max Pick Up. As a priority vehicle for business purposes, Gran Max pickup is designed to have a carrying capacity of the largest of its kind. Gran Max pickup can be used to transport goods or in large quantities.

One of the car brand that can be used as store car is the Daihatsu Gran Max. There are 2 types that can be store car namely: Gran Max Pick Up (PU) and Gran Max Blind Van (BV). Also available Gran Max Box prepared by Daihatsu authorized dealers.

According to Honda

2010-01-07T19:10:00.000-08:00

Honda is thinking big with its 'New Small Concept' unveiled at the Delhi Motor Show in India today. Designed by Honda Siel Cars India Ltd, the Japanese firm's Indian arm, the stylish concept will form the basis for a new model to go on sale in India and Thailand next year.

Blacked-out A-pillars give an impression of a wraparound windscreen, while the sharply tapered rear window adds to the dynamic profile. A feast of slashes and creases in the bodywork should make it among the most stylish models in its class.

And by using a wide platform, the car's designers have ensured that not only will it be stable in the bends, but there's ample room for five in the cabin, too.

According to Honda, when the car goes on sale in 2011 the aim is to provide a small and affordable family vehicle that is beyond the expectations of customers in emerging markets. There are currently no plans to bring it to the UK.

Freelander 2 Sport is powered by 2.2-liter TD4 diesel engine

2010-01-03T22:13:00.000-08:00

Land Rover is not going to make a full blooded Sport model of the Freelander with big V8 engine, like the Range Rover. That’d be too expensive and no one would buy it. Instead, from 2010 they offer a Sport Edition, which comes with unique styling, more luxury, efficient engine and great value for money.

Going on sale form January next year, the Freelander 2 Sport has a distinctive appearance to set it apart form the regular models. It comes in two colors: Santorini Black and Lago Grey and features 19″ limited edition diamond-turned alloy-wheels, rear spoiler and two-tone interior trim.

The interior of Freelander can be had in cloth/leather as standard or exclusive fine leather in contrasting Ebony and Storm with the sport styling pack. It also has an Ebony-coloured centre-console and lower fascia complemented with two-tone door casings. There is also embossed Sport emblem on the front and outer rear seat head restraints.

Freelander 2 Sport is powered by 2.2-liter TD4 diesel engine which is mated to a manual gearbox and features start/stop system. At 42 MPG and 179g/km CO₂ emissions, it is one of the most economical and green cars in this segment.

2010 Land Rover Freelander 2 Sport pricing starts from £26,695 on-the-road.

well if you buy the V8 model! which you should

2010-01-03T20:51:00.000-08:00

Konigseder’s new kit for Audi S5 Coupe proves that you can improve on perfection! The S5’s discrete and classy body is now sporty and aggressive as well thanks to the tuner’s modified new bumper,sport wheels and new exhaust with those magnificent tailpipes. The only criticism is the side skirts which are unnecessarily big!

Audi S5 has also received a new set of exhaust system from Konigseder which improves its V8 rumble (well if you buy the V8 model! which you should). And there a pair of twin tailpipes which again, are quite big, but kinda cool.

The tuner has also considered the S5’s handling and enhanced it by using new suspension components which lower the ride height. Alternatively you can choose the H&R adjustable system. That is capable of lowering the car for 60mm!

The car also comes with Brembo braking package with bid discs and 6-piston calipers. These discs are nicely placed inside the new 20-inch Competec C01 wheels. These 10-spoke rims come in a matte black finish and are wrapped in 245/30 tires at front 285/25 for the rear.

The Borrego was Introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model

2010-01-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

2009 Kia Borrego – Click above for high-res image gallery

There really isn't anything wrong with the Kia Borrego. When compared directly to its intended competition, the big, boxy, body-on-frame SUV is both attractive and fully class competitive, as we learned the first time we got any significant time in its driver seat. That said, there's no doubt that the Borrego's model launch was an object lesson in horrible timing.

The Borrego was Introduced in late 2008 as a 2009 model, right when the financial meltdown was starting to make some waves and the previous summer's record-high fuel prices were still emblazoned in our collective memory banks. This being the case, it's no surprise to learn from The Car Connection that Kia moved fewer than half (at 9,510 through November) of its hoped-for Borrego sales in 2009.

That said, we still didn't expect the Korean automaker to drop the Borrego entirely for the 2010 model year, which is exactly what's being reported by the boys over at The Car Connection. Apparently, no decision has yet been made as to whether the Borrego will make a return appearance after 2010 or if the square-jawed SUV will be a one-and-done proposition.

Either way, for the keen bargain hunter, there's a boatload of cash on the hood of the 2009 model year. Kia is presently offering $3,000 in cash back on all trim levels, plus the availability of numerous other incentives. The rundown: $1,500 for trading in a competitor's vehicle (everything from the Buick Enclave to the Pontiac Aztek and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited qualifies); $1,500 for owner loyalty, $400 for recent college grads, $500 for military service, and $300 for Great Dane rescue shelter workers. We made that last one up.

Kia Borrego First Drive

Rolls-Royce edition Mini reportedly confirmed for custom order

2009-11-22T03:54:00.000-08:00

Mini Rolls-Royce special for Park Lane – Click above for image gallery

It's been about half a year since the initial reports of a Rolls-Royce edition Mini first surfaced, and nearly as long since the first batch of photos emerged. But rumors persist, and now reports from the UK indicate that mutual parent company BMW has given the green light for a series of Rolls-style accoutrements for the iconic retro-hatch.

Following market trends that seem to indicate that, in Europe especially, buyers aren't willing to give up on luxury when they go for more compact, fuel-efficient rides, the specially-trimmed Minis would offer customers a range of customization options suitable for a Phantom yet packed into a Cooper. But rather than outfitting Minis with stock luxury trim packages – like Aston Martin is preparing to do with the iQ-based Cygnet – the exclusive Mini hatchbacks would be outfitted at the Rolls-Royce factory according to individual customer orders. Clients would be able to choose from the best leathers and veneers to give their Minis a more upscale feel, much like the coachbuilt Minis popular amongst British celebs like Harold Radford and The Beatles in the '60s, but available through established dealers in a more organized fashion.

Unfortunately, that's about all the information available at this point, but sources suggest a public announcement sometime next year.

Rolls MINI for Park Lane

Renault could sell 40% of its F1 team to Russian investors

2009-11-22T03:38:00.000-08:00

A few weeks back, Toyota announced its departure from Formula One, and it looked like Renault could follow. The team had lost its drivers, its team leaders, its sponsors and its reputation. The French automaker's board convened in France to discuss the matter, but no announcement followed, leaving everyone scratching their heads. Well if the latest rumors hold any truth, we could have our reason.

While the decision may have seemed fairly black or white (should I stay or should I go?) there are plenty shades of gray for Renault to choose from. One option would have been to sell or shutter its team while continuing to supply engines, but now another possibility has emerged: for Renault to sell part of the team but keep the rest.

The reports stem from Turun Sanomat, one of Finland's largest daily papers, which suggests that the French automaker could sell as much as 40 percent of the team to an unnamed Russian company. The move would help Renault raise some much-needed capital to continue its involvement in the sport, but could come with strings attached, including placing GP2 runner-up Vitaly Petrov in a race seat beside Robert Kubica. Considering the hot water Renault's already in with the Russians and how poorly the country's last venture into F1 went, they could prove hesitant, but then Ghosn and company might not have any better options.

Ford Mustang details leak out 2010

2009-11-22T03:24:00.000-08:00

We have to wait a couple more weeks before we're officially "in the know" about the 2011 Ford Mustang, but it appears FoMoCo's secret information dam has a few cracks in it. Ford recently released its fleet distribution news bulletin and it offered some insights as to when the refreshed Mustang is coming and the new variants on offer. The bulletin states customers will be able to order their 2011 Mustang on January 18, 2010, with Ford's favorite stallion tentatively entering production on March 15, 2010.

The alleged news bulletin also mentions some of the new model variants on the way, including the return of the California Special. There will also reportedly be an SVT Performance package, three available 19-inch wheel options, an available six-speed automatic transmission and a Brembo Brake package. The SVT package includes 19-inch wheels, an RR spoiler, "Over the Top" stripe delete and a 3.73 limited slip. The order form also appears to confirm that the 2011 Shelby GT500 will continue to use the 5.4-liter V8 engine, which we hear will be of the all-aluminum variety. We'll learn a lot more about the 2011 Mustang when Ford reveals its vastly updated pony car at the LA Auto Show in early December.

Honda Accord Crosstour 2010

2009-11-22T02:40:00.000-08:00

2010 Honda Accord Crosstour – Click above for high-res image gallery

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour hasn't won too many fans amongst the automotive press, and while we're sure it fills the Accord Wagon space in Honda's lineup, the way the Crosstour has a foot both in the wagon and CUV realms still has us scratching our heads. Taking a peek at what's being cross-shopped against Honda's latest offering proves potential customers are in the same boat.

Fitting every car into a neat categorical box is a fool's errand, but the Crosstour is apparently making everyone wonder just where it belongs. According to early Edmunds' data, buyers seem to think the Crosstour competes most closely with the Toyota Venza, with ToMoCo's wagon-on-stilts being cross-shopping against the Crosstour more than any other vehicle. Other Honda models are also heavily considered against the Crosstour, according to Edmunds Auto Observer, as are a panoply of other cars. Luxury rides like the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series wind up in the comparison column, as do more traditional crossovers like the Chevrolet Equinox and Toyota RAV-4.

While the Crosstour has been called lots of unflattering things, it's clear that figuring out whether it's neatly described as fish or fowl is more of a thorny chestnut. That said, none of this is exactly important if the car is generating showroom traffic and moving units.

Gallery: First Drive: 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour

Formula Le Mans joins the big boys in the Le Mans Series 2010

2009-11-22T01:28:00.000-08:00

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Formula Le Mans Oreca FLM09 – Click above for image gallery

Most major racing disciplines around the world have a clear and comprehensive framework to allow aspiring drivers to learn the ropes. Pretty much everyone starts in karting, but from there F1 hopefuls go on to Formula Renault and other open-wheeled series; NASCAR aspirants to ARCA and the Nationwide Series; rally prodigees to local championships; and so on and so forth. But teams fielding Le Mans prototypes had to recruit from other disciplines. That is, until now.

Earlier this year, the Automobile Club de l'Ouest – the organization behind Le Mans and its associated series – launched Formula Le Mans, known in America as the Le Mans Prototype Challenge. The idea was simple: everybody driving the same cars, designed on the same model as LMP1 and LMP2 racers, in support races to existing LMS events. French racing team (and, since acquiring Courage Competition, chassis constructor) Oreca was contracted to design and build the cars and help organize the series.

The purpose-built chassis known as the FLM09 packs a Chevy LS3 tuned to 430 horsepower with Magneti Marelli engine management, driving an Xtrac six-speed sequential gearbox to Michelin slicks housing Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes. Eight teams participated in the inaugural season this year, fielding some 50 drivers at races at Spa-Francorchamps, La Sarthe, Algarve, the Nurburgring, Silverstone and Magny-Cours.

The opening season was a success, prompting ACO and Oreca to launch a winter series, currently under way. But for next year's series, Formula Le Mans will be fully integrated into the Le Mans Series as another category, much as they've been run in the American Le Mans Series since their inception. In order to separate the FLM cars from the higher-level LMP2 and keep them running for the full race distance, however, the Oreca FLM09s be equipped with restrictor plates. The integration of FLM into the full series ought to make for some interesting racing and a more hands-on training ground for aspiring drivers when they join the grid next year, but for now you can read the full press release after the jump and browse the mega gallery by hitting the thumbnails below.

Formula Le Mans Oreca FLM09

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa

2009-10-15T08:02:00.000-07:00

Ferrari just announced that injured driver Felipe Massa could be back in the saddle as early as Monday. Massa hasn't been in an F1 car since July's Hungarian Grand Prix, when a spring from another car flew up and hit him above his eye, fracturing his skull.

The first time he has even been back on track was last week when he took the wheel of a kart. Because of testing bans in place this season in F1, Massa can't drive the current car he was running until Hungary. As he gets back up to speed, the FIA has granted him permission to drive a 2007-spec car fitted with GP2 tires.

Massa has also spent time on Ferrari's racing simulator. Word has it he's already mastered Barcelona and is working hard at beating the Interlagos circuit now. Before taking the wheel of the 2007 car, he still needs to pass an examination, but once he's cleared, he could be on track in Italy by Monday. This will be testing only as the driver isn't expected to compete for Ferrari any more this season.

Cars and Coffee roadshow headed for New England

2009-10-10T07:41:00.000-07:00

Cars and Coffee, the informal and inclusive wheeled hootenanny originated in Irvine, California has been spreading across the country faster than swine flu. There's no stage with bad cover bands, not a trophy in sight, but you're always likely to see some astounding vehicles.

Herb Chambers, New England dealership juggernaut, has thrown his support behind a New England gathering. "Herb himself is a super car enthusiast," says John Covell, Director of Marketing for the Herb Chambers Companies, "He thought that others would enjoy it." A new BMW dealership in Sudbury, MA, where the event is being held this Saturday, October 10th, is a supporting cast member.

Cynics may dismiss this as another ploy akin to inflatable dinosaurs, but when was the last time you were invited out by a car dealership to drink free coffee and ogle a McLaren F1 on a Saturday morning? Running from 7-10 AM, the inaugural event will be over before many people's days get under way. "Herb is passionate about cars and he's passionate about this business. If our customers understand that we share their passion, that's a good thing," sums up Covell. Hey, if he doesn't mind us drooling all over his McLaren, we'll agree.

New GM marketing boss Mark LaNeve apparently unaware that diesel is now cheaper than gas

2009-06-05T23:59:00.000-07:00

Over the last several years, we've heard a lot of excuses from many auto executives as to why their companies aren't offering diesel engines in their American market cars. Yesterday, General Motors' Mark LaNeve, the company's vice president of sales and marketing, made an appearance on C-SPAN's Washington Journal. The final question of the segment came from a viewer wondering why GM has failed to offer U.S. consumers the chance to buy some of the high-mileage diesel cars it offers in Europe.

It would appear that LaNeve might have done better to take a pass on the question. Instead of talking about the cost of making those diesels meet U.S. emissions regulations or the difficulty in helping Americans overcome the misconceptions about the fuel, he claimed that no one has successfully cracked the diesel passenger nut in the U.S. (which based on VW's May sales appears to be wrong). More startlingly, LaNeve went on to claim that diesel is $1.25 a gallon more expensive than gasoline. According to the Energy Information Agency, the national average for diesel this week is $2.35 / gallon while regular gas is $2.52 or $0.17 more than diesel. Admittedly, the fact that diesel is now cheaper than 87 octane gas is a recent development (a trend that nobody is sure how long it will last), but – going on national television and quoting outdated fuel prices as a reason for your bankrupt company's business decisions... well, that doesn't strike us as a terribly hot idea.

You can hear the question and response at 20:30 into the video replay over at C-SPAN.

Daihatsu Gran Max MB 1.3 Familia 107jt

2009-04-06T21:36:00.002-07:00

Tentang Daihatsu Grand Max Minibus 1.3 Familia
Harga OTR: 107.650.000
Cicilan 12 bulan: - Uang Muka: -
Cicilan 24 bulan: - Uang Muka: -
Cicilan 36 bulan: - Uang Muka: -

Dealer Daihatsu
PT Astra Daihatsu Motor
http://www.daihatsu.co.id/Our%20Network/DaihatsuProvince.asp

Armada Auto Tara
Jl.Sukardjo Wiryopranoto No.73, Jakarta Pusat
Telp. (021) 6241010 Fax.6240909
Astra International - Daihatsu
Jl. K.H. Hasyim Ashari No. 42, Jakarta Pusat
Telp. (021) 6323633, 6323662, 6312602, Fax. 6311877
Astra International - Daihatsu
Jl. Pangeran Jayakarta No. 28, Jakarta Pusat
Telp (021) 6590606, 6590600 (Hunting) Fax. 6590610
Astra International - Daihatsu
Jl.Balikpapan No.8, Jakarta Pusat
Telp (021) 63864386-87, 63862219 Fax.63862223

Review Daihatsu
Harga Jual Kembali
Kelebihan/Kekurangan
Keuntungan/Kerugian

Tentang Daihatsu
Head Office
Jl Gaya Motor III / 5, Sunter II, Jakarta 14330, Indonesia
http://www.daihatsu.co.id

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. is a Japanese manufacturer of cars, well known for its smaller models and off-road vehicles. Many of its models are also known as kei jidosha (or kei cars) in Japan. Daihatsu was formed in 1951 as successor organisation to Hatsudoki, and by the 1960s had started exporting cars to Europe, although it did not enjoy any major sales success until well into the 1980s.

http://www.daihatsu.com/

Mobil Toko Daihatsu Gran Max

2009-04-06T21:36:00.001-07:00

Zaman serba sulit, ekonomi belum lagi baik. Tetapi jangan berkecil hati di balik himpitan selalu datang kesempatan. Menurut penuturan Bapak Fahmi Idris, Menteri Perindustrian, saat ini, industri makanan dan minuman masih berpeluang berkembang.

Salah satu modal dasarnya adalah tempat berjualan, jika beli atau sewa terlalu mahal ada alternatif lain yaitu menggunakan Mobil Toko (Moko). Untuk mendapatkannya bisa melalui dealer resmi atau perusahaan karoseri. “Kami punya beberapa model” sebut Sukendro, marketing PT Roda Nada Karya, perusahaan karoseri yang biasa menggarap moko.

Peluang ini bisa jadi sebuah solusi. Soalnya dengan moko pedagang juga tak perlu menunggu konsumen datang. “Sekarang ini pedagang enggak bisa lagi nunggu pembeli tapi harus jemput bola. Lihat saja, sekarang jual motor pakai mobil khan” bilang Wiharso.

Salah satu merek mobil yang dapat dijadikan moko adalah Daihatsu Gran Max. Ada 2 tipe yang bisa dijadikan moko yaitu: Gran Max Pick Up (PU) dan Gran Max Blind Van (BV). Selain itu tersedia pula Gran Max Box yang sudah disiapkan dealer resmi Daihatsu.

Selain itu ada perbedaan yang mendasar untuk dijadikan moko yaitu tinggi dek. Kalau dek PU lebih tinggi dari dek BV. Seperti angkot Gran Max yang lantai dasar penumpang belakang lebih tinggi lantaran pakai basis Gran Max PU.

Sama seperti Gran Max Ambulance yang terkadang menggunakan versi PU. Hanya saja body belakang sudah full karoseri. Biasanya bodi belakang dibuat lebih panjang untuk membawa peralatan medis.

Ada juga type PU chassis dimana desain boks bisa sesuai keinginan kita, contohnya mobil display motor Honda.

Untuk asuransi model PU hanya boleh ambil TLO. Tapi untuk BV bisa TLO dan All Risk.

Gambar Daihatsu New Max

2009-04-06T21:34:00.002-07:00

Gambar Daihatsu D40D yang akan punya nama Daihatsu New Max ini didapat dari salah satu rekan. Gambar ini sudah sempat beredar di tabloid otomotif. Dibawah ini muncul 2 jenis masing-masing versi minibus dan pick-up. Dan menurut info terbaru, harganya tidak ada lebih dari 100 juta rupiah untuk varian termewahnya.New max versi minibusNew Max model pick-up

Selubung Daihatsu Gran Max Sudah Dibuka

2009-04-06T21:34:00.001-07:00

Inilah wajah dari Daihatsu pengganti Daihatsu Zebra. Namanya Daihatsu Gran Max. Diluncurkan dua hari yang lalu tepatnya tanggal 6 November 2007 di JITEC, Mangga Besar, Jakarta Pusat. Foto dan berita ini saya copy dari www.oto.co.id.

Menurut keterangan, pada saat acara launching tersebut jumlah peminatnya sudah mencapai 2.700 unit. â€œ60% jenis pick up. Sisanya baru minibus,â€? ungkap Pak Abong, panggilan akrab Suparno Djasmin, Direktur Marketing PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor.

Model yang tersedia ada 4 variant minibus dan 4 varian pick up yaitu : D 1.5 (deluxe 1500 cc), D 1.3 (deluxe 1300 cc), F 1.5 (standard 1500 cc), dan F 1.3 (standard 1300 cc). Sementara varian yang ditawarkan untuk jenis kendaraan pick ut terdiri dari : 1.5 standard, 1.5 3-way, 1.3 standard, dan 1.3 3-way.

Bagaimana dengan harganya? Untuk model pick up, rentang harganya antara Rp. 67 juta hingga Rp. 79 jutaan. Sedang model minibusnya dijual antara Rp. 76,5 juta sampai dengan Rp. 99 jutaan. Wow… murah sekali. Jenis minibusnya sanggup membawa 11 orang penumpang termasuk sopir. Maklum, bangku paling belakang dibuat saling berhadapan dengan kapasitas 6 penumpang.

Bagaimana menurut anda? Walau belum melihat bentuk fisiknya secara langsung, sepertinya kok kelihatan “nanggung” gitu, ya… Moncongnya sich agak masuk akal, bahkan menurutku lebih OK dibanding APV. Tapi ngeliat body-nya (bagian tengah ke belakang) kok serasa kurang kokoh dan kurang manis, gitu. Kesan meng-kotak-nya masih sangat kental.

Daihatsu Luncurkan Daihatsu Gran Max

2009-03-31T04:50:00.000-07:00

Konsumen otomotif kembali disuguhkan produk terbaik dari Daihatsu. Selasa, 6 November 2007 PT Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM) meluncurkan Daihatsu Gran Max di JITEC, Jakarta Pusat. Produk terbaru Daihatsu ini dari 2 model; Minibus dan Pick up. Daihatsu Gran Max merupakan kendaraan unggulan dengan rancangan terbaru untuk memenuhi permintaan pasar akan kendaraan niaga berkapasitas besar, nyaman, aman, efisien, dan berkualitas global.

Dengan harga berkisar antara Rp 67 juta-an hingga Rp 99 juta-an, kendaraan ini ditargetkan akan mencapai tingkat penjualan 2.300 unit/bulan untuk pasar domestik. Daihatsu Gran Max diproduksi di pabrik PT Astra Daihatsu Motor dengan memanfaatkan jalur produksi baru yang juga diresmikan (6/11) di Sunter, Jakarta Utara.

Daihatsu Gran Max memiliki konsep produk High Capacity, High Reliability, dan High Efficiency. Dengan High Capacity, Gran Max dirancang untuk memiliki kapasitas muat yang terbesar di kelasnya. Dengan High reliability, produk ini dirancang untuk mendukung kegiatan bisnis penggunanya dalam segala kondisi.

Gran Max menggunakan mesin-mesin yang telah teruji di dunia otomotif. Daihatsu Gran Max minibus dan pick up memiliki dua pilihan mesin, yaitu 1.300cc DOHC yang sudah digunakan oleh Daihatsu Xenia dan 1.500cc DOHC VVT-i yang juga digunakan oleh Daihatsu Terios. Berdasarkan hasil tes internal, Gran Max dapat digunakan untuk melalui banjir setinggi 60cm. Dan High Efficiency, Gran Max dirancang dengan memperhatikan efisiensi khususnya bahan bakar yang irit dan biaya perawatan yang rendah sehingga secara total akan memberikan penghematan secara finansial dalam bisnis penggunanya.

Penggunaan nama Gran Max berasal dari kata dalam bahasa Inggris yaitu “Grand” dan “Maximum” yang artinya mobil dengan kapasitas besar untuk mendapatkan keutungan dan manfaat yang maksimal pada penggunanya. Sebagai mobil dengan kapasitas muat besar, minibus dapat memuat penumpang hingga 9-11 orang dan pikap dapat mengangkut muatan hingga seberat 1,1 ton.

Daihatsu Gran Max minibus terdiri dari 4 varian, yaitu tipe D 1.5 (deluxe), tipe D 1.3 (deluxe), tipe F 1.5 (standar), dan tipe F 1.3 (standar). Untuk Grand Max pick up juga terdiri dari 4 varian, yaitu tipe 1.3 Standard, 1.3 3-Way, 1.5 Standard, dan 1.5 3-Way., Juga disediakan tipe Blind Van dan tipe Box. Selain itu disediakan juga paket aksesori, baik untuk minibus maupun pick up, yaitu paket Extra dan Super untuk pick up, sedangkan untuk minibus tersedia paket trend dan paket optima.

Gran Max minibus memiliki 4 pilihan warna, yaitu Sand Gold Metallic, Sonic Blue Metallic, Ultra Black, dan Classic Silver Metallic. Untuk pickup dan box ditawarkan 3 warna, yaitu Sonic Blue Metallic, Super White, dan Ultra Black. Sedangkan untuk blind van hanya disedikan warna Super White.