The Lotus Exige range has always been about offering more performance by losing more weight. The latest Exige Cup 260 takes the 38 kg weight savings introduced in last year’s Cup 240 model, combines them with the extensive body and aerodynamic improvements and revisions introduced on the 2010 Exige in March 2009 and tops them off with new components and technologies.
The first version of the all-new Hyundai Tucson has been revealed for its Korean home market, demonstrating swoopy new styling and a new engine.
The Maserati GranCabrio convertible has debuted just before its public display at the upcoming 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Essentially nothing more than a GranTurismo with a chopped top, this is probably the most predictable car to be revealed at the auto show.
European vehicle manufacturer Renault is continuing to build upon its range of GCC available models and is expanding its dealership network across the region, despite first half figures that reveal mixed fortunes for the motor industry.
For a company hell-bent on protecting its brand image, even going as far as blocking us from reviewing their cars, it is ironic that they create their own problems. Volkswagen of America has announced a “voluntary” recall involving 13,500 vehicles equipped with its notorious DSG automanual transmission. Models affected by the recall include the Golf GTI, the Eos and the Mexican-built Jetta, built between September 2008 and August 2009.
Kia has launched a new “premium” compact crossover hatchback-MPV called the Kia Venga, which will go on sale in Europe later this year.
BMW is the world’s first automotive manufacturer to offer in-car technology that allows full internet access from the dashboard display of its flagship model, the BMW 7-Series. This ground-breaking feature named BMW Online offers the convenience of internet usage in the UAE and GCC.
Rolls-Royce has developed a new Phantom Bespoke Collection exclusively for the Middle East. Just six cars will arrive in the GCC region as of August, in what is largely a new paint-and-trim package.
Porsche has debuted the 2010 version of the Porsche 911 Turbo, and it would seem that all the updates are under the skin rather than on the outside. The new 911 Turbo apparently boasts improvements in fuel efficiency, lower weight, more power, and enhanced driving dynamics.
Volkswagen Middle East has launched the “new” sixth generation of the VW Golf GTI in the UAE and other GCC markets. The 2009 GTI is largely the same as the old model, with the mildest of power increases and the addition of more technology to make it handle better.