2009 Nissan Murano: More Pictures and Details

The original Nissan Murano, launched in 2003 as a 2004 model, set new standards for style and sportiness in the expanding mid-size crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) segment. The all-new, second generation 2009 Murano elevates that unique position through a “super evolution” of the original design – with a new exterior, interior and enhanced technology. Murano’s new premium driving feel results from a combination of a compl new platform, continued refinement of Murano’s standard V6 engine and new, second-generation Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission).

The 2009 Murano’s new exterior features a wide front end with a dynamic front fascia design, a wide grille with large integrated headlights, strong body side character lines with pronounced 18-inch or 20-inch wheels and a distinctive rear end set off by an expansive rear glass area and LED taillights.

Its newly designed interior plays on the “mobile suite” theme, complete with new instrument panel and center stack design, new seat design with available double-stitched leather, internal trim combo of leather and aluminum, a variety of storage compartments and ambient lighting.

This new luxury large-size SUVfrom Nissan is powered by a revised 265hp 3.5L V6 backed by a new advanced Xtronic CVT™ (Continuously Variable Transmission), with a front-wheel drive or an advanced all-wheel drive drivetrain. Murano also features a new D-platform, as well as new suspension, body structure and state-of-the-art steering for improved ride comfort and precise handling.

Multiple technology features are featured in the 2009 Murano, including standard Push Button Ignition and available Intelligent Key, RearView Monitor, integrated iPod connectivity, DVD Mobile Entertainment System with 9-inch screen, 11-speaker Bose audio system and an enhanced touch screen Nissan Navigation system with voice activation and a 9.3GB Music Box Hard Drive.

BMW 1-series Coupe M-Sport

BMW is working its M-division magic on the 1-series coupe by offering M-Sports package across all the variants. M-Sport package includes 17-inch light alloy wheels wrapped in 205/50 tyres up front and 225/45 in the rear, in tandem with sports suspension for higher traction and reduced body roll.

Meanwhile, the M-aerodynamic package consists of redesigned front and rear bumpers plus high gloss shadowline exterior trim. Other M paraphernalias are sports seats, chunky M leather steering wheel, gearshift & handbrake levers, M-logo door sills and anthracite headlining.

Click on all images to enlarge

The new 1-series coupe is expected to join BMW Malaysia line-up early next year (2008).

Related post:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/07/new-bmw-1-series-coupe.html

The 8th generation "Accord" that was not conceived

The above is one artist impression - circulating on the net circa 2006 - of the next generation Honda Accord that (unfortunately?) didn't turn out to be remotely close to the actual 8th generation Accord (pictured below) expected due in Malaysia sometime Q1 2008.

Related post:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/08/2008-all-new-honda-accord.html

2009 All-New Nissan Murano

What you see here are leaked images of the next generation Nissan Murano luxury SUV.
Taking cues from current Nissan's design language seen in the Qashqai and Tiida Latio (hatchback), both exterior and interior looks more refined now, with the frontal grille less of a 'grinning teeth' appearance.

Mercedes-Benz 'C-For Yourself' Official Launch in Malaysia

By Dr Long



Mercedes-Benz all-new C-Class (W204) was launched recently at APAC, Subang with much pizzaz. Tagging a catchy slogan ‘C-For Yourself’, it began with a Gala night when the new C-Class was officially unveiled by DaimlerChryler Malaysia (DCM). VIPs, distinguished customers, potential buyers and the media were feted to a showcase of myriad lifestyle activities, the highlight of which was a fashion show in conjunction with the Malaysia International Fashion Week 2007. Designers like Michael Ong, Sharifah Kirana, Tom Abang Saufi and Melinda Ooi had models catwalk their creations on the runway. A lucky draw with grand prizes of an all-paid trip each to Stuttgart, Germany was held for customers who had booked their C-Class before 15 October 2007.

It has been 25 years since the launch of the 190, which signaled the successful foray of Mercedes-Benz into the compact, premium automobiles segment. “Approximately 8,000 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have been sold throughout its presence in Malaysia. And since the launch of the new C-Class models in Europe early this year, over 55,000 units have already been ordered”, revealed Peter Honegg, President & CEO of DaimlerChrysler Malaysia. In this regards, Mr Honegg also added that “In Malaysia, we have attained more than 1,000 bookings already and with such impressive figures, we are confident that the new Mercedes-Benz C-Class will build on the success of its predecessor.”

Click on all images to enlarge

Some of the outdoor activities held on C-day are test drive sessions of the new C200K, the Active Safety Experience by Michelin which demonstrated the new C’s agility, safety and dynamic driving. Go-Kart races also added some fun to the morning. However, the sky soon started to pour just after noon and all driving activities were halted, much to the disappointment of many invited guests who had waited in vain for their turns. Indoor, golfing tips were given by attending golf professionals and female customers were treated to fashion shows, dazzling jewellery displays and hand spas. Fine wine appreciating sessions and cooking presentations kept guests with discerning tastes occupied. Children were spotted busy at the MobileKids corner, learning road safety initiatives, which were taught in a light, easy and entertaining manner.

Interestingly, the fourth C-Class generation is the first Mercedes saloon with two different frontal designs. In the more traditional C200K Elegance model, the trademark three-pointed star is, as before, positioned on the bonnet. For the Avantgarde version though, the iconic Mercedes star-logo is larger and seated in the centre of the radiator grille, reminiscent of the sportier Benz models. Although the 1.8L Kompressor 4-cylinder engine is largely carried over, there is a boost in output by up to 13 percent, now a respectable 184hp while torque has increased by around 18 percent to 250Nm, coming on tap from 2800rpm to 5000rpm. A claim 0-100km/h sprint that’s 0.6sec faster (at 8.8sec) than its predecessor, while fuel consumption is reduced by 0.5L/100km!

For this year – to begin with – DCM has tagged the C200K Elegance at RM248,888 while the sportier Avantgarde variant goes for RM258,888. Both are locally assembled models, on-the-road prices, excluding insurance. Expect the C230 V6 Avantgarde, with Advanced Agility package and 7-G Tronic, to be available by Q2 2008.

Related posts:

http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/10/w204-c200k-prices-confirmed-below.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/mercedes-benz-c-for-yourself-video-ad.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/2008-c-class-w204-video.html
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/09/w204-c-class-preview-at-cycle-carriage.html

You may want to read this:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/10/parting-impression-mercedes-benz-c200.html

Volkswagen Space Up!

Hot on the heels of its Up! concept at the Frankfurt Motor Show, Volkswagen chose Tokyo 2007 to reveal the enlarged version called Space Up! Still an unfinalised concept, it's 230mm longer than the previous three-door hatchback Up!

With a longer wheelbase and larger dimensions all over, the Space Up! Offers improved packaging in a vehicle measuring just 3.68m in length. The concept also features ‘suicide’ doors and can seat four people comfortably, including two children in the integrated child seats.

Like the smaller Up!, the engine is also mounted at the rear, thereby freeing up space in the front for stowing gear while maintaining rear hatch luggage space as well. It looks like Volkswagen is really getting serious with its small, compact and affordable global car, set for world market domination. Going Up! Yes?

Related post:
http://for-wheels.blogspot.com/2007/11/vw-up.html

VW Up!

The German carmaker that’s bent on taking on Toyota globally, Volkswagen, has attempted a 21st century’s iteration of its iconic Beetle of late. Creatively and jovially named VW Up!, the cab-forward hatchback measures 3.45m in length and revives the small rear-engine, rear-wheel drive (RR) design of the original people’s car.



The concept you see here is essentially a city runabout planned as a cute, compact but spacious and affordable supermini of VW’s future. It will be powered by either a two or three cylinder engines of compact design and small displacements.