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Justin Bieber’s Tower of Hair Defense
Description Game:
Beiber spends quality time on his hair and singing. Can you help him defend it from an onslaught of frisky fans?(Visited 24 times, 3 visits today)
Chủ Nhật, 25 tháng 11, 2012
Evil Clown Generator
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Evil Clown Generator
Description Game:
Use the buttons to create hundreds of evil clown’s with this particularly strange and addictive flash game. Strange as it seems, many here desire to generate evil clowns all day long.How to play Game:
Red Storm Defence
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Red Storm Defence
Description Game:
A tower defense and shooting game Red Storm Defense you need to protect power cores against Soviet enemy units. Use your special mech and build turrets to protect. You can pick up points to upgrade your towers and mechs.(Visited 22 times, 2 visits today)
How to play Game:
This game is played with mouse only.Crazy Kimono Doll Assault
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Crazy Kimono Doll Assault
Description Game:
A party-based dungeon crawl tactical RPG. Create a party of up to four heroes, from five distinct character classesHow to play Game:
Thứ Ba, 6 tháng 11, 2012
ThugJacker Half
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Game description: Fight against the cops along your way.
Game controls: Arrow Keys - Move.A - Jump.S - Attack.D - Super.
Ben 10 Wheels
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Ben 10 Wheels
Description Game:
This is a typical trial bike game, but wit Ben 10 as its main character. Actually, Ben doesn’t do much, but being the driver.How to play Game:
Use Arrow Keys to drive your bike.Thứ Ba, 2 tháng 10, 2012
Grand Prix Go
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| disney cars
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Grand Prix Go
Description Game:
Complete the tracks to win cash and buy cool upgrades for your car.(Visited 3 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
Arrow keys/W,A,S,D - control car. X/N - turbo.Bike Mania on Ice
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| dirt bike games
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Bike Mania on Ice
Description Game:
It’s a dirt bike on ice! Carefully drive your motor bike over the ice-covered obstacles and get to the end of each level as quickly as you can.How to play Game:
HotShot Hoops
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| basketball games
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HotShot Hoops
Description Game:
Make as many hoops as possible by adjusting your angle and the power behind your shooting.(Visited 4 times, 3 visits today)
How to play Game:
Left / Right Arrow Keys - Adjust Angle. Spacebar- Shoot.In The Heat Of The Night
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| batman games
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In The Heat Of The Night
Description Game:
In the Heat of the Night is a platform-based action game created for the web in conjunction with MochiAds using the characters from the TV series Batman: The Brave and the Bold.(Visited 6 times, 3 visits today)
How to play Game:
Move using the ARROW keys. The UP ARROW is used to both jump and glide, the DOWN ARROW is used to duck and block. Press SPACE BAR to climb a building when below a gargoyle. Press A to attack and S to throw a batarang. Press C to change player on levels 2 and above.2D Knock-Out
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| fighting games |
2D Knock-Out
Description Game:
Travel around the world and defeat all the boxers.How to play Game:
Left Mouse button to Punch and Space to Block.Western Blitzkrieg 2
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| gun games |
Western Blitzkrieg 2
Description Game:
Storm the Secret Jungle Base in the jump, run, shoot and shoot game Western Blitzkrieg 2 and eliminate kraut dudes.(Visited 8 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
W, A, S, D - Move. Mouse - Aim / Shoot. Spacebar - Switch Weapons. G - Throw Grenade.Enjoy With Math
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| Cool math for kids |
Enjoy With Math
Description Game:
Play 30 Tricky Levels in which you have to sum all the numbers under a set of rules. You will be satisfied with your math if you clear all the Levels. Thank you.(Visited 5 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
This game is played with mouse only.Lightning Pool 2
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| pool games |
Lightning Pool 2
Description Game:
Sink the balls in time. Earn bonuses by pocketing the black ball last and never missing a shot!(Visited 11 times, 1 visits today)
How to play Game:
MouseThứ Sáu, 7 tháng 9, 2012
Perry the Perv
Game Info - Look at the lady's heart. The more you stare, the more perv points you acquire. Don't get caught or Perry gets pasted.
Game controls - Mouse - Look.
Left Click - Stare and Score.
Game controls - Mouse - Look.
Left Click - Stare and Score.
Battleships 2
Game Info - Select a Ship. Use
keyboard left and right arrow keys to turn your ship. Select a position
on the game board to deploy your selected ship.
Game controls - Use your mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use your mouse to interact.
Sort My Tiles Belle and Beast
Game Info - See the love between unlikely couples.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Battlefields World War II
Game Info - Blow off your enemies heads as you fire the war from a top-down perspective. Can you stay alive?
Game controls - WASD keys to move.
E to enter truck or jeep.
Mouse to aim and shoot.
Game controls - WASD keys to move.
E to enter truck or jeep.
Mouse to aim and shoot.
Fishy
Game Info - Eat the smaller fishes for you to grow bigger, but beware of larger fishes because they will eat you up!
Game controls - Arrow Keys - To control movement.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - To control movement.
Thứ Tư, 5 tháng 9, 2012
Mad Mack's Harpoon Lagoon
Game Info - Catch fish as many as you can before time runs out.
Game controls - Z / X - Move the Boat.
Left / Right Arrow Keys - Aim the Harpoon.
Spacebar - Spear.
Enter Key - Drop Bombs.
Game controls - Z / X - Move the Boat.
Left / Right Arrow Keys - Aim the Harpoon.
Spacebar - Spear.
Enter Key - Drop Bombs.
Ice Girl
Game Info - Melt her up withe latest trends and fashion.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use mouse to interact.
Red Storm 2 - Survival
Game Info - Power up your mech and run and gun all the enemies as you attach more guns and armor to your mech.
Game controls - Use Arrow keys to move.
Mouse to aim and shoot.
Game controls - Use Arrow keys to move.
Mouse to aim and shoot.
Mini Train
Game Info - physics engine based puzzle game where you've to close the gaps with the given shapes in order to pave the way for the train.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Tigress Jump
Game Info - Soar sky high as
Tigress! Leap from one lantern to another without falling, and collect
as many points as you can. But be careful! Careful footing is the key to
soaring high.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Ba, 4 tháng 9, 2012
A Touch of Green
Game Info - This lady loves green. Dress her up in the nicest combination of dresses from among her collection. Enjoy!
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Game controls - Mouse - To interact.
Megaman Project X
Game Info - Megaman game use rock to dash jump power up cannon and fire at enemies.
Game controls - Right / Left Arrow - Walk.
Spacebar - Shoot.
END - Dash.
Game controls - Right / Left Arrow - Walk.
Spacebar - Shoot.
END - Dash.
Fancy Pants Adventure 2 - Demo Version
Game Info - This is the demo
version for the sequel of the successful Fancy Pants series. But still
this is lots of fun to play and we all can't wait for the full version.
Don't forget to fire up yourself to the cannon to get at the top, and
don't let him sleep, ok? Enjoy!
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Movement.
S - Jump.
Up Key - Open doors.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Movement.
S - Jump.
Up Key - Open doors.
Pony Land
Game Info - Create an army of perfect little ponies at play!
Game controls - In the pony generator at the bottom-left of the screen, click the colors on the left to change the pony's color (you can click the arrows to see more color options) and the categories at the top-right corner to see all the options to dress the pony.
At the bottom of the pony generator, click the arrows to flip the pony, the hanger to reset the pony's appearance, and the wand to generate a random pony look.
When you're ready, drag the pony to the field.
Click the three icons at the right of the screen to change the background. Clicking the stars icon below them will clear all objects from the field.
Once you've chosen a background, click the folders at the top of the screen to open the different categories of decoration, which you can select and drag on.
Game controls - In the pony generator at the bottom-left of the screen, click the colors on the left to change the pony's color (you can click the arrows to see more color options) and the categories at the top-right corner to see all the options to dress the pony.
At the bottom of the pony generator, click the arrows to flip the pony, the hanger to reset the pony's appearance, and the wand to generate a random pony look.
When you're ready, drag the pony to the field.
Click the three icons at the right of the screen to change the background. Clicking the stars icon below them will clear all objects from the field.
Once you've chosen a background, click the folders at the top of the screen to open the different categories of decoration, which you can select and drag on.
World Class Chef: Italy
Game Info - See what Italian cuisine is all about.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Hai, 3 tháng 9, 2012
Final Fight 2
Game Info - This is a
walk-and-fight game with Street Fighter characters. As in all other
games of the kind, you need to beat all your enemies. You choose your
character and a guard, another person that will fight your enemies with
you. You do not control the guard. He/she does his/her job alone.
Game controls - W, A, S, D - Move.
J - Punch.
K - Jump.
L - Kick.
Game controls - W, A, S, D - Move.
J - Punch.
K - Jump.
L - Kick.
The Rise of a King
Game Info - Your goal in the
Rise of a King is to explore the world in and around Stormguard Castle
as you start off on your first day as a Knight. Times are getting dark
with the current king and many others behaving strangely while more and
more dangerous creatures appear, causing trouble all over the kingdom.
You seem to be the only one to see the obvious corruption, and its up to
you to dissolve this matter.
Game controls - Left / Right Arrow Keys - Move.
Up Arrow Key - Jump.
Down Arrow Key - Shield, Duck.
Spacebar - Interact.
1 - Cycle through Weapons.
2 - Cycle available Armor.
3 - Cycle through Shields.
O - Objectives.
Q - Cycle through Spells.
W - Drink Mana Potion.
E - Drink Health Potion.
A - Use Spell.
S - Heavy Attack.
D - Normal Attack.
Game controls - Left / Right Arrow Keys - Move.
Up Arrow Key - Jump.
Down Arrow Key - Shield, Duck.
Spacebar - Interact.
1 - Cycle through Weapons.
2 - Cycle available Armor.
3 - Cycle through Shields.
O - Objectives.
Q - Cycle through Spells.
W - Drink Mana Potion.
E - Drink Health Potion.
A - Use Spell.
S - Heavy Attack.
D - Normal Attack.
Dance Dance Carabao
Game Info - There are four
arrows that correspond to your keyboard directional keys. Once the game
starts, arrows would start scrolling up. Time the key pressing of the
corresponding keyboard directional keys once the scrolling arrows
overlap it. You score with every timed arrows.
Game controls - Use arrow keys to interact.
Game controls - Use arrow keys to interact.
Ben 10 Monster Cards Game
Game Info - Get to find all pairs of identical cards before time runs out.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Emo Girl Dress Up
Game Info - If you like Emo
aesthetics, this will be your favourite dress-up game. You can try on
many differerent outfits with miniskirts, long stockings,... and with
many fun accessories.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Bảy, 1 tháng 9, 2012
Virtual Villagers
Game Info - Train your villagers and help them to grow the tribe
Game controls - Mouse click for interaction
Game controls - Mouse click for interaction
Jungle Shooter
Game Info - Shoot down a fruity bounty with a little help from your pets!
Game controls - Aim and shoot fruit with your mouse. Create groups of 3 or more of the same to collect them before the stack reaches the bottom. Between levels, feed the collected fruit to your pets. Then, during the game, when the bar is filled to above the icon for a pet, you can click on that pet to use its special skill to help you. When bats appear, shoot them down with your fruit!
Game controls - Aim and shoot fruit with your mouse. Create groups of 3 or more of the same to collect them before the stack reaches the bottom. Between levels, feed the collected fruit to your pets. Then, during the game, when the bar is filled to above the icon for a pet, you can click on that pet to use its special skill to help you. When bats appear, shoot them down with your fruit!
Thing Thing 4
Game Info - Shoot all the enemies in this action sidescroller. Lots of weapons, action, blood, and body parts!
Game controls - A / D - Move.
W - Jump.
S - Duck.
Spacebar - Drop Current Weapon.
Game controls - A / D - Move.
W - Jump.
S - Duck.
Spacebar - Drop Current Weapon.
Strategy Defense 3
Game Info - The Strategy Defense series returns for another take on strategy and sending out soldiers.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.
Madness Retaliation
Game Info - A Turn-based strategy combat game based on the Madness Combat series by Krinkels.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Sáu, 3 tháng 8, 2012
Intrusion
Game description: An awesome sidescroller action game that feels a lot like Heli Attack. Shoot down enemies and more!
Game controls: W, A, S, D - Move. Moue - Aim / Shoot. 1-4 - Change Weapon.
Game controls: W, A, S, D - Move. Moue - Aim / Shoot. 1-4 - Change Weapon.
Snow White Dress Up
Game description: Help Snow White makeover her style.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use Mouse to interact.
Girl Dressup Makeover
Game description: Create a girl of your dreams.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Thứ Năm, 19 tháng 7, 2012
Art Gallery
Game description: Make her artsy enough for the gallery.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only
Emy Shopping in California
Game description: Emy
is a cute girl from the west coast who really like to shop in Beverly
Hills. She can spend a lot of time daily in the stores with his friends.
Put some beautiful clothes on her and she will buy them for sure.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Eco Friendly
Game description: Try the new eco friendly dresses for humanity.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Thứ Ba, 19 tháng 6, 2012
Girl Makeover 12
Game description: Help
this girl get a beauty make over, choose the right dress, new hair
style and beauty kit combination for her to achieve the beautiful new
look.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Cinderella: Until the Stroke of Midnight
Game description: Help Cinderella find the required things before the time runs out!
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.
Clear Vision
Game description:
Between assassination jobs, learn the dark truth about this stick dude's
past. It's not pretty. But he does have a nice apartment.
Game controls: Mouse to aim and fire.
Game controls: Mouse to aim and fire.
Chủ Nhật, 17 tháng 6, 2012
Jaguar F-Type gets supercharged V6
Supercharged V6 engine confirmed for new F-Type sports car games... and there's a turbo four model in the offing
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Jaguar
Jaguar has confirmed the F-Type's engine range will at least include the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 unit derived from the brand's blown 5.0-litre V8. The V6 was expected to serve the new model's purposes but more interestingly, a four-cylinder turbocharged unit could also line-up.
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder is already part of the JLR stable, utilised by the Range Rover Evoque, and Jaguar has confirmed it will use the turbo petrol four in the XF model as well.
However Jaguar has not yet said which F-Type models will be equipped with the 2.0-litre turbo engine but upcoming two-seater is an obvious fit.
Jaguar Australia Brand Manager, Kevin Goult, told motoring.com.au the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine will be packaged with the XF, arriving in Australia later in 2012, but wouldn't be drawn on its F-Type deployment.
"In regards to F-TYPE at this stage the only confirmed engine is the 3.0-litre V6 supercharged engine that was announced at Beijing motor show. We're remaining tight lipped on all other aspects of the car at present and more details will follow during the coming months.
"I can confirm that the 2.0-litre petrol turbo will be fitted in XF and available in Australia Q4 2012. It's an important segment for XF with this engine so we're keen to work hard on pricing to make it even more competitive than what we have today."
The turbo four is good for 179kW at 5500 revs and uses an eight-speed automatic to maximise "efficiency and performance" and exploit the engine's "highly flexible powerband" says Jaguar in its Beijing show press release.
Torque and fuel consumption figures weren't published.
"These engines [the I4 and V6] will be offered as choices on a number of Jaguar models in the future," read the press statement.
Two (253 and 283kW) versions of the V6 will be offered; both using the ZF-built eight-speed. The all-aluminium unit will also employ Jag's Intelligent Stop-Start system.
According to Ron Lee, chief engineer for Jaguar Cars, both the four and six-cylinder engines "make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines."
JAGUAR XJ ULTIMATE
In other Jag news, the brand released the XJ Ultimate model at the Beijing motor show. Long and luxurious, the XJ Ultimate features iPads with keyboards and docks mounted in the back of the front headrests.
It even has a champagne chiller and storage for flutes, and a folding aluminium business table for rear passengers, and a 20-speaker surround sound system by British audio experts Meridian provides the music.
Up front seating includes massage function and cooling/heating. Designed to appease the China market, the opulent limousine will be the first car to use the abovementioned supercharged V6.
Jaguar Australia says it has one order for the XJ Ultimate in this country.
"In regards to XJ Ultimate, I believe we have one customer who is enquiring about the car," says Goult. "We are only going to bring it in as retail order only so it will be exceptionally rare in Australia."
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Jaguar
Jaguar has confirmed the F-Type's engine range will at least include the supercharged 3.0-litre V6 unit derived from the brand's blown 5.0-litre V8. The V6 was expected to serve the new model's purposes but more interestingly, a four-cylinder turbocharged unit could also line-up.
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder is already part of the JLR stable, utilised by the Range Rover Evoque, and Jaguar has confirmed it will use the turbo petrol four in the XF model as well.
However Jaguar has not yet said which F-Type models will be equipped with the 2.0-litre turbo engine but upcoming two-seater is an obvious fit.
Jaguar Australia Brand Manager, Kevin Goult, told motoring.com.au the 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine will be packaged with the XF, arriving in Australia later in 2012, but wouldn't be drawn on its F-Type deployment.
"In regards to F-TYPE at this stage the only confirmed engine is the 3.0-litre V6 supercharged engine that was announced at Beijing motor show. We're remaining tight lipped on all other aspects of the car at present and more details will follow during the coming months.
"I can confirm that the 2.0-litre petrol turbo will be fitted in XF and available in Australia Q4 2012. It's an important segment for XF with this engine so we're keen to work hard on pricing to make it even more competitive than what we have today."
The turbo four is good for 179kW at 5500 revs and uses an eight-speed automatic to maximise "efficiency and performance" and exploit the engine's "highly flexible powerband" says Jaguar in its Beijing show press release.
Torque and fuel consumption figures weren't published.
"These engines [the I4 and V6] will be offered as choices on a number of Jaguar models in the future," read the press statement.
Two (253 and 283kW) versions of the V6 will be offered; both using the ZF-built eight-speed. The all-aluminium unit will also employ Jag's Intelligent Stop-Start system.
According to Ron Lee, chief engineer for Jaguar Cars, both the four and six-cylinder engines "make intelligent use of forced-induction technology to produce high-specific output in an efficient way, while delivering the compelling combination of flexibility, refinement and driver reward that are integral attributes in all Jaguar engines."
JAGUAR XJ ULTIMATE
In other Jag news, the brand released the XJ Ultimate model at the Beijing motor show. Long and luxurious, the XJ Ultimate features iPads with keyboards and docks mounted in the back of the front headrests.
It even has a champagne chiller and storage for flutes, and a folding aluminium business table for rear passengers, and a 20-speaker surround sound system by British audio experts Meridian provides the music.
Up front seating includes massage function and cooling/heating. Designed to appease the China market, the opulent limousine will be the first car to use the abovementioned supercharged V6.
Jaguar Australia says it has one order for the XJ Ultimate in this country.
"In regards to XJ Ultimate, I believe we have one customer who is enquiring about the car," says Goult. "We are only going to bring it in as retail order only so it will be exceptionally rare in Australia."
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Small Car mega-test iPad App special edition
Find out which small car games stands tall in our 10 vehicle mega test
The Light Car mega-test conducted late last year was so well received that we’ve decided to tackle it again. This time, the incredibly popular Small Car segment is under the motoring.com.au microscope in a special edition of the iPad App magazine.
Whether downsizing, upsizing, economising, or just plain improvising, the average Small Car has more to offer than ever before. Safety, reliability, fuel efficiency and performance are all at the peak of their game, and in some cases, pricing is just too close to call. The roll call includes Ford Focus, Kia Cerato, Holden Cruze, Hyundai i30, Mazda Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Renault Megane, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf.
Well, you could spend your hard-earned weekends traipsing around car yards queuing for a test drive. Or you can grab a cup of coffee, put your feet up and enjoy the fruits of our labour. We’ve put ten of the most popular small hatches head-to-head with only one winner eligible for top place on the podium…
It might be small in subject, but the Small Car mega test is our biggest issue ever… The motoring.com.au iPad App is totally interactive, free, and it’s waiting to be downloaded at the App Store now.
The Light Car mega-test conducted late last year was so well received that we’ve decided to tackle it again. This time, the incredibly popular Small Car segment is under the motoring.com.au microscope in a special edition of the iPad App magazine.
Whether downsizing, upsizing, economising, or just plain improvising, the average Small Car has more to offer than ever before. Safety, reliability, fuel efficiency and performance are all at the peak of their game, and in some cases, pricing is just too close to call. The roll call includes Ford Focus, Kia Cerato, Holden Cruze, Hyundai i30, Mazda Mazda3, Mitsubishi Lancer, Renault Megane, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf.
Well, you could spend your hard-earned weekends traipsing around car yards queuing for a test drive. Or you can grab a cup of coffee, put your feet up and enjoy the fruits of our labour. We’ve put ten of the most popular small hatches head-to-head with only one winner eligible for top place on the podium…
It might be small in subject, but the Small Car mega test is our biggest issue ever… The motoring.com.au iPad App is totally interactive, free, and it’s waiting to be downloaded at the App Store now.
Green motoring on the wane?
Survey reveals fewer Australian motorists ardently support eco-sensitive cars games
Buyers who factor environmental considerations into their new-car purchase decision number three per cent fewer than two years ago.
That's just one statistic revealed in research conducted by motor vehicle insurer AAMI. The insurer claims also that over the same period, the consumption of biofuels and ethanol blends has risen by just four per cent. With Holden building the SIDI-engined Commodores over that same period and Caltex selling E85, a four per cent rise is meagre.
According to AAMI spokesman, Reuben Aitchison, it's a sign that motorists are losing interest in the environment.
“Availability of biofuels and ethanol blends has increased over the last two years, and cost is not a major barrier according to AAMI’s research,” Aitchison was quoted as saying in a press release. “Even the belief that these fuels damage cars has fallen. Coupled with a dip in the number of drivers who say green factors are front of mind at the car dealer, as well as the number of drivers actively changing their driving style to reduce their environmental impact, it seems as though Green Fatigue has well and truly set in.”
Despite the fact the AAMI research shows a decline in buyers who make the environment a priority when they purchase new cars, the percentage of such buyers is still 51 per cent — just over half of all new-car buyers. But just 36 per cent bother to fill the tank with biofuels or ethanol blends.
“We know that Australians care about the environment and their impact on it, but it seems as though other pressures, like cost of living, are taking a priority,” said Aitchison.
Aitchison's belief lies in the large numbers of respondents who claim to do what they can to save fuel. According to the research, 77 per cent claim to drive smoothly, 60 per cent avoid speeding, yet shift into a higher gear as soon as possible and 70 per cent regularly check tyre pressures. We like our comfort, however, with the research indicating 48 per cent operate the air conditioning "sparingly".
“There are some simple things that drivers can, and are, doing to reduce the environmental impact of their car, and also possibly save a few dollars at the same time,” said Aitchison. “These simple techniques are easy to implement, and most should be followed for basic car maintenance anyway. We encourage all drivers to think about how they can reduce their environmental impact each time they get behind the wheel.”
Buyers who factor environmental considerations into their new-car purchase decision number three per cent fewer than two years ago.
That's just one statistic revealed in research conducted by motor vehicle insurer AAMI. The insurer claims also that over the same period, the consumption of biofuels and ethanol blends has risen by just four per cent. With Holden building the SIDI-engined Commodores over that same period and Caltex selling E85, a four per cent rise is meagre.
According to AAMI spokesman, Reuben Aitchison, it's a sign that motorists are losing interest in the environment.
“Availability of biofuels and ethanol blends has increased over the last two years, and cost is not a major barrier according to AAMI’s research,” Aitchison was quoted as saying in a press release. “Even the belief that these fuels damage cars has fallen. Coupled with a dip in the number of drivers who say green factors are front of mind at the car dealer, as well as the number of drivers actively changing their driving style to reduce their environmental impact, it seems as though Green Fatigue has well and truly set in.”
Despite the fact the AAMI research shows a decline in buyers who make the environment a priority when they purchase new cars, the percentage of such buyers is still 51 per cent — just over half of all new-car buyers. But just 36 per cent bother to fill the tank with biofuels or ethanol blends.
“We know that Australians care about the environment and their impact on it, but it seems as though other pressures, like cost of living, are taking a priority,” said Aitchison.
Aitchison's belief lies in the large numbers of respondents who claim to do what they can to save fuel. According to the research, 77 per cent claim to drive smoothly, 60 per cent avoid speeding, yet shift into a higher gear as soon as possible and 70 per cent regularly check tyre pressures. We like our comfort, however, with the research indicating 48 per cent operate the air conditioning "sparingly".
“There are some simple things that drivers can, and are, doing to reduce the environmental impact of their car, and also possibly save a few dollars at the same time,” said Aitchison. “These simple techniques are easy to implement, and most should be followed for basic car maintenance anyway. We encourage all drivers to think about how they can reduce their environmental impact each time they get behind the wheel.”
Eating at the wheel is dangerous?
British seaside town of Bournemouth a hotbed of phone/sex/car games activities
Following reports in London’s Daily Telegraph and other UK press earlier this month that eating at the wheel is very, very dangerous, the Bournemouth Daily Echo, instrument of record at Europe’s top holiday destination on the shores of the Channel, came forth last week with further shocking revelations. Namely, that eating is not the only in-transit activity to put lives at risk.
Extensive investigations have shown that talking on a mobile phone while in control of a motor vehicle is also a menace to life and limb on the nation's roads. “I can scarcely believe it – this has been going on under our noses for twenty years or more and it took this long to find this out,” the nation’s top traffic cop told the Echo. “Startled - that’s what I am right now, I'd have to say. Yeh, startled.”
Fortunately for him and his colleagues, a squad of Echo photographers hit the streets to find out just how prevalent in-transit telephony has become. The result is this shocking gallery of culprits exposing Bornemouth as a town of such concentrated criminality as to be out of control.
The next chapter in paper’s ongoing expose has been delayed with reports that an Echo photographer has been pulled off assignment after being caught offering a young woman fifty quid to have sex in his car.
“But look, the sex angle’s really just a kind of diversion, a filler while we pull the really big one together,” an Echo editorial spokesman told motoring.com.au. He and his colleagues are staying mum on exactly what that is, but a wave of rumour sweeping all of southern Britain has it that the paper is setting up to make explosive revelations later in the year about the possible deleterious effects on motor skills of alcohol consumption.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Following reports in London’s Daily Telegraph and other UK press earlier this month that eating at the wheel is very, very dangerous, the Bournemouth Daily Echo, instrument of record at Europe’s top holiday destination on the shores of the Channel, came forth last week with further shocking revelations. Namely, that eating is not the only in-transit activity to put lives at risk.
Extensive investigations have shown that talking on a mobile phone while in control of a motor vehicle is also a menace to life and limb on the nation's roads. “I can scarcely believe it – this has been going on under our noses for twenty years or more and it took this long to find this out,” the nation’s top traffic cop told the Echo. “Startled - that’s what I am right now, I'd have to say. Yeh, startled.”
Fortunately for him and his colleagues, a squad of Echo photographers hit the streets to find out just how prevalent in-transit telephony has become. The result is this shocking gallery of culprits exposing Bornemouth as a town of such concentrated criminality as to be out of control.
The next chapter in paper’s ongoing expose has been delayed with reports that an Echo photographer has been pulled off assignment after being caught offering a young woman fifty quid to have sex in his car.
“But look, the sex angle’s really just a kind of diversion, a filler while we pull the really big one together,” an Echo editorial spokesman told motoring.com.au. He and his colleagues are staying mum on exactly what that is, but a wave of rumour sweeping all of southern Britain has it that the paper is setting up to make explosive revelations later in the year about the possible deleterious effects on motor skills of alcohol consumption.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Chủ Nhật, 27 tháng 5, 2012
Sort My Tiles Avatar The Last Airbender
Game description: Sort the tiles to get Aang in Avatar The Last Airbender puzzle.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played by mouse only.
Kitten Salon
Game description: Your favorite pet MiMi loves fashion
more than you do! Take her to the famous kitten salon. You will find
lots of stylish and exquisite itmes for her! Have fun in the salon!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Kitten Salon
Game description: Your favorite pet MiMi loves fashion
more than you do! Take her to the famous kitten salon. You will find
lots of stylish and exquisite itmes for her! Have fun in the salon!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Make Fashion Your Teacher
Game description: Fashion doesn't make the teacher, but
it gets respect from students. So as a student lets make your teacher
little fashionable and stylish. Choose the character and the you will
find a wide variety of elegant and super feminine dresses, colorful
shirt and skirts, pretty accessories. Use your skills and fashion sense
and mix-match them to complete her dress up. Change her hairdo, add a
perfect glasses and at last add a stick in order to get a perfect look
for your teacher. Enjoy!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only.
Ultimate War
Game description: Build your army and strengthen your positions against enemies as you attack to take new ground.
Game controls: Use mouse to play the game. Use WASD or arrow keys to scroll the game. Z to stop. X to retreat. Space bar to attack at will.
Game controls: Use mouse to play the game. Use WASD or arrow keys to scroll the game. Z to stop. X to retreat. Space bar to attack at will.
Staggy the Boy Scout Slayer II
Game description: Slay some boy scouts!
Game controls: Arrow Keys - Movement Space - Attack
Game controls: Arrow Keys - Movement Space - Attack
King of Fighters Death Match
Game description: King of Fighter classic game, but only with Kyo.
Game controls: WASD Move U Light Punch I Medium Punch O Hard Punch J Light Kick K Medium Kick
Game controls: WASD Move U Light Punch I Medium Punch O Hard Punch J Light Kick K Medium Kick
Thứ Ba, 22 tháng 5, 2012
Peugeot offers capped serving costs
Launch of the 4008 compact SUV marks the introduction of a capped service-cost plan
discount new cars games Get the best price on a new Peugeot
Peugeot has followed the trail blazed by Toyota in offering a fixed-price service plan for its new 4008 SUV. Under the company’s AfterCare ‘assured service plan’, service costs for the 4008 will be capped at $330 a year for the duration of its three-year, 100,000km warranty. The plan covers the vehicle’s standard 12 month/20,000km service intervals with intermediate inspections.
The company will phase in the AfterCare plan with each new model release and substantial updates to each model in its existing lineup.
New car ownership doesn’t stop with the product any more, marketing manager Richard Grant told motoring.com.au at the 4008 launch. “It’s about the whole ownership experience. We worked out pretty quickly from our research that if we want to bring a European brand to more buyers, we need to allay that common perception that European cars, even the inexpensive ones, are costly to service and maintain.”
The 4008’s warranty and servicing schedule differs from that of its sister under the skin, Mitsubishi’s ASX, in several ways. Thanks to different servicing methods and the use of its own lubricants (sourced from French oil giant Total), Peugeot has managed to extend the service interval to 20,000km from the Japanese maker’s 15,000km (both go to 12 months).
Mitsubishi arms the ASX with a five-year/130,000km warranty (with ten years or 160,000km on the powertrain), and caps service costs for the first 60,000km as well. Each 15K service for a petrol ASX costs $195.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site…
discount new cars games Get the best price on a new Peugeot
Peugeot has followed the trail blazed by Toyota in offering a fixed-price service plan for its new 4008 SUV. Under the company’s AfterCare ‘assured service plan’, service costs for the 4008 will be capped at $330 a year for the duration of its three-year, 100,000km warranty. The plan covers the vehicle’s standard 12 month/20,000km service intervals with intermediate inspections.
The company will phase in the AfterCare plan with each new model release and substantial updates to each model in its existing lineup.
New car ownership doesn’t stop with the product any more, marketing manager Richard Grant told motoring.com.au at the 4008 launch. “It’s about the whole ownership experience. We worked out pretty quickly from our research that if we want to bring a European brand to more buyers, we need to allay that common perception that European cars, even the inexpensive ones, are costly to service and maintain.”
The 4008’s warranty and servicing schedule differs from that of its sister under the skin, Mitsubishi’s ASX, in several ways. Thanks to different servicing methods and the use of its own lubricants (sourced from French oil giant Total), Peugeot has managed to extend the service interval to 20,000km from the Japanese maker’s 15,000km (both go to 12 months).
Mitsubishi arms the ASX with a five-year/130,000km warranty (with ten years or 160,000km on the powertrain), and caps service costs for the first 60,000km as well. Each 15K service for a petrol ASX costs $195.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site…
Benz B-Class claims new ANCAP record
Nearly a perfect score for the five-star Mercedes selling below $40K
discount new cars games » Get the best price on a new BMW
It's official: the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is now the safest passenger vehicle in Australia. Evaluated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), the B-Class scored 36.78 points out of a maximum possible tally of 37.
ANCAP released the information yesterday, although the crash safety authority doesn't promote the total scores of individual vehicles, satisfying itself with a five-star rating overall for the Benz — and its Valente sibling. However, the full score for each vehicle can be tracked on ANCAP's own website. The result for the Benz is marginally better than that of the Toyota Aurion, on 36.59.
“The ANCAP Rating Road Map progressively introduces minimum mandatory and additional SAT [Safety Assist Technologies] requirements over the coming years. Ahead of its time however, the B-Class has scored beyond the current requirements to achieve this 5 star result,” said ANCAP Chair, Lauchlan McIntosh, as quoted in a press release.
“As early as the 1950s Mercedes was forging ahead in vehicle safety with the development of the passenger safety cell, and with the addition of modern-day SATs, this is a winning combination for consumers.”
Word that the B-Class had achieved a near-perfect score came from Mercedes-Benz Australia's Manager Corporate Communications, Jerry Stamoulis.
"It's a very good news story... for a $40,000 car," Stamoulis told motoring.com.au. "It's almost a perfect 37..."
The B-Class, as standard, comes with such features as Anti-Collision warning, Pre-Safe, Adaptive Braking, Brake Drying, Crash-responsive emergency lighting, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keep Assist. These are the sort of features ANCAP describes as 'SAT'.
"This safety equipment arrived in S-Class not too long ago," Stamoulis pointed out.
The B-Class is proving quite popular within the local Benz product range. With combined-cycle fuel consumption of 6.1L/100km and its affordable price, the new model is already encountering demand ahead of supply from the factory.
"We knew [that] with B-Class we were definitely going to have not enough stock for the demand that's out there..." said Stamoulis. "We're fighting for more [stock from the factory]."
It's part of a global issue for Benz, Stamoulis says, the B-Class being the stand-in for the A-Class, which doesn't launch in Europe for a few months yet — and the new A-Class is not the high-roofed, functional people-packer the previous model was.
"Obviously we don't want to leave any current customer without an option to upgrade or go into a new car," he said, acknowledging the B-Class is a stepping stone for former or current A-Class owners.
Stamoulis accepts that the new A-Class will have broader appeal to make up for any earlier A-Class buyers lost in the transition to the new model, and by dropping the previous generation A-Class and re-positioning the B-Class, Mercedes-Benz has seen sales of the 'B' improve markedly. The new A-Class is unlikely to change that.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars games » Get the best price on a new BMW
It's official: the Mercedes-Benz B-Class is now the safest passenger vehicle in Australia. Evaluated by the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP), the B-Class scored 36.78 points out of a maximum possible tally of 37.
ANCAP released the information yesterday, although the crash safety authority doesn't promote the total scores of individual vehicles, satisfying itself with a five-star rating overall for the Benz — and its Valente sibling. However, the full score for each vehicle can be tracked on ANCAP's own website. The result for the Benz is marginally better than that of the Toyota Aurion, on 36.59.
“The ANCAP Rating Road Map progressively introduces minimum mandatory and additional SAT [Safety Assist Technologies] requirements over the coming years. Ahead of its time however, the B-Class has scored beyond the current requirements to achieve this 5 star result,” said ANCAP Chair, Lauchlan McIntosh, as quoted in a press release.
“As early as the 1950s Mercedes was forging ahead in vehicle safety with the development of the passenger safety cell, and with the addition of modern-day SATs, this is a winning combination for consumers.”
Word that the B-Class had achieved a near-perfect score came from Mercedes-Benz Australia's Manager Corporate Communications, Jerry Stamoulis.
"It's a very good news story... for a $40,000 car," Stamoulis told motoring.com.au. "It's almost a perfect 37..."
The B-Class, as standard, comes with such features as Anti-Collision warning, Pre-Safe, Adaptive Braking, Brake Drying, Crash-responsive emergency lighting, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keep Assist. These are the sort of features ANCAP describes as 'SAT'.
"This safety equipment arrived in S-Class not too long ago," Stamoulis pointed out.
The B-Class is proving quite popular within the local Benz product range. With combined-cycle fuel consumption of 6.1L/100km and its affordable price, the new model is already encountering demand ahead of supply from the factory.
"We knew [that] with B-Class we were definitely going to have not enough stock for the demand that's out there..." said Stamoulis. "We're fighting for more [stock from the factory]."
It's part of a global issue for Benz, Stamoulis says, the B-Class being the stand-in for the A-Class, which doesn't launch in Europe for a few months yet — and the new A-Class is not the high-roofed, functional people-packer the previous model was.
"Obviously we don't want to leave any current customer without an option to upgrade or go into a new car," he said, acknowledging the B-Class is a stepping stone for former or current A-Class owners.
Stamoulis accepts that the new A-Class will have broader appeal to make up for any earlier A-Class buyers lost in the transition to the new model, and by dropping the previous generation A-Class and re-positioning the B-Class, Mercedes-Benz has seen sales of the 'B' improve markedly. The new A-Class is unlikely to change that.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
ISOFIX Child Seats: what it means to Oz
Finally, parents and carers can seat their young passengers in ISOFIX-approved accommodation but will it affect ANCAP safety ratings?
The long-awaited approval of the ISOFIX anchorage system for child seats allows the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) to provide test results on child occupant safety, but the team has no immediate plans to provide ratings.
By contrast, Euro NCAP publishes adult and child occupant ratings, in addition to rear-impact (for whiplash) and newly-enforced pedestrian safety tests which can significantly affect results. The Jeep Compass, for example, was awarded four stars by ANCAP while ENCAP gave it just two.
According to ANCAP spokespersons, the outfit uses crash-test dummies representing an infant and child however the "dummies are so crude that the results are meaningless". The distance the dummy's head moves forward after impact is the only helpful result.
Formerly ANCAP has argued the lack of conformity among types of child car seats in Australia has prevented provision of a "child occupant rating like the one published by Euro NCAP". Recently the Gillard government approved the ISOFIX system for child seating in cars, for implementation by 2013, ending several years' deliberation over the subject. ISOFIX has been endorsed throughout Europe and North America (called LATCH) since 2002.
"We're certainly looking [at conducting our own tests] but there's a whole range of things that go beyond just the performance in the crash test," ANCAP spokesman Michael Paine told motoring.com.au.
Mr Paine said his team was required to look for a method suitable for Australian motorists and passengers. European manufacturers of vehicles and child seats have incorporated ISOFIX since the 1990s whereas Australian standards for the past 30 years approve a top-tether arrangement using the vehicle's existing seatbelts. EuroNCAP's results on child protection safety are therefore irrelevant in reference to Australian passengers.
The approval of ISOFIX seating is "a desirable improvement" for child safety, said Paine. But focus on proper installation of current ADR-approved child seats using adult seat belts needs to be maintained "because there are so many cars out there without ISOFIX", Paine reasoned. The majority of ISOFIX-equipped new cars come from European manufacturers.
"There are some advantages to ISOFIX but our research tells us it's not that great, and the system we've had for child restraints in Australia is actually extremely effective," said Paine.
Arguments against the top-tether system include incorrect installation, however Paine says his team has evidence the ISOFIX-enhanced seats also throw up confusion. "It's not as easy to use as first envisaged."
With the top-tether arrangement, he says, "it is obvious to see and it does so much to improve the performance of the child restraint. The push for ISOFIX validation in Australia has largely come from various child seat and vehicle manufacturers.
"The point is to have a child restraint securely attached to the vehicle. The more closely it's tied to the vehicle the better the occupants' chances of survival in a crash, and there's different ways to do this," said Paine.
"Really it's a matter of consistency in testing. Europe has a certain way of testing and these days it's using ISOFIX, and Australia has a different way (the top-tether set up)... Provided all parents [and carers] know how they work, that's the most important outcome for everyone," he suggested.
"There are also situations where you might have to put the same seat in a different vehicle or even different types of child restraints in the same vehicle... If they all work in a similar way it's a huge advantage to help prevent misuse."
Read the latest Car games sales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
The long-awaited approval of the ISOFIX anchorage system for child seats allows the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) to provide test results on child occupant safety, but the team has no immediate plans to provide ratings.
By contrast, Euro NCAP publishes adult and child occupant ratings, in addition to rear-impact (for whiplash) and newly-enforced pedestrian safety tests which can significantly affect results. The Jeep Compass, for example, was awarded four stars by ANCAP while ENCAP gave it just two.
According to ANCAP spokespersons, the outfit uses crash-test dummies representing an infant and child however the "dummies are so crude that the results are meaningless". The distance the dummy's head moves forward after impact is the only helpful result.
Formerly ANCAP has argued the lack of conformity among types of child car seats in Australia has prevented provision of a "child occupant rating like the one published by Euro NCAP". Recently the Gillard government approved the ISOFIX system for child seating in cars, for implementation by 2013, ending several years' deliberation over the subject. ISOFIX has been endorsed throughout Europe and North America (called LATCH) since 2002.
"We're certainly looking [at conducting our own tests] but there's a whole range of things that go beyond just the performance in the crash test," ANCAP spokesman Michael Paine told motoring.com.au.
Mr Paine said his team was required to look for a method suitable for Australian motorists and passengers. European manufacturers of vehicles and child seats have incorporated ISOFIX since the 1990s whereas Australian standards for the past 30 years approve a top-tether arrangement using the vehicle's existing seatbelts. EuroNCAP's results on child protection safety are therefore irrelevant in reference to Australian passengers.
The approval of ISOFIX seating is "a desirable improvement" for child safety, said Paine. But focus on proper installation of current ADR-approved child seats using adult seat belts needs to be maintained "because there are so many cars out there without ISOFIX", Paine reasoned. The majority of ISOFIX-equipped new cars come from European manufacturers.
"There are some advantages to ISOFIX but our research tells us it's not that great, and the system we've had for child restraints in Australia is actually extremely effective," said Paine.
Arguments against the top-tether system include incorrect installation, however Paine says his team has evidence the ISOFIX-enhanced seats also throw up confusion. "It's not as easy to use as first envisaged."
With the top-tether arrangement, he says, "it is obvious to see and it does so much to improve the performance of the child restraint. The push for ISOFIX validation in Australia has largely come from various child seat and vehicle manufacturers.
"The point is to have a child restraint securely attached to the vehicle. The more closely it's tied to the vehicle the better the occupants' chances of survival in a crash, and there's different ways to do this," said Paine.
"Really it's a matter of consistency in testing. Europe has a certain way of testing and these days it's using ISOFIX, and Australia has a different way (the top-tether set up)... Provided all parents [and carers] know how they work, that's the most important outcome for everyone," he suggested.
"There are also situations where you might have to put the same seat in a different vehicle or even different types of child restraints in the same vehicle... If they all work in a similar way it's a huge advantage to help prevent misuse."
Read the latest Car games sales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
Audi expands TT's S Tronic selection
Buyers can now opt for six-speed dual clutch box in new TT variants
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Audi has boosted the appeal of its dynamic TT range by offering the S Tronic six-speed transmission in three new variants.
Formerly manual only, the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI coupes are now available with the S Tronic transmission for a price premium of $3500 ($68,950 and $73,800, respectively). Manual versions are now available to special order only, so the prestige importer clearly expects the S Tronic variants to account for the major portion of sales from this point forward. Audi has also introduced the 1.8 TFSI engine with the S Tronic to the Roadster model range, priced at $72,400.
With the S Tronic transmission the 1.8-litre coupe — from 118kW and 250Nm — will reach 100km/h in 7.2 seconds, yet will return a fuel consumption figure of 6.4L/100km in combined-cycle testing. In contrast, the diesel with S Tronic (available in the coupe only), develops 125kW and 350Nm, to propel it to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds and post a fuel consumption figure of 5.5L/100km.
Prices for the TT range are now as follows:
Coupe 1.8 TFSI manual — $65,450 (special order only)
Coupe 1.8 TFSI S tronic — $68,950 (new)
Coupe 2.0 TDI manual — $70,300 (special order only)
Coupe 2.0 TDI S tronic — $73,800 (new)
Coupe 2.0 TFSI S tronic — $75,550
Coupe 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic — $78,150
Roadster 1.8 TFSI S tronic — $72,400 (new)
Roadster 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic — $81,600
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars games » Get the best price on a new Audi
Audi has boosted the appeal of its dynamic TT range by offering the S Tronic six-speed transmission in three new variants.
Formerly manual only, the 1.8 TFSI and 2.0 TDI coupes are now available with the S Tronic transmission for a price premium of $3500 ($68,950 and $73,800, respectively). Manual versions are now available to special order only, so the prestige importer clearly expects the S Tronic variants to account for the major portion of sales from this point forward. Audi has also introduced the 1.8 TFSI engine with the S Tronic to the Roadster model range, priced at $72,400.
With the S Tronic transmission the 1.8-litre coupe — from 118kW and 250Nm — will reach 100km/h in 7.2 seconds, yet will return a fuel consumption figure of 6.4L/100km in combined-cycle testing. In contrast, the diesel with S Tronic (available in the coupe only), develops 125kW and 350Nm, to propel it to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds and post a fuel consumption figure of 5.5L/100km.
Prices for the TT range are now as follows:
Coupe 1.8 TFSI manual — $65,450 (special order only)
Coupe 1.8 TFSI S tronic — $68,950 (new)
Coupe 2.0 TDI manual — $70,300 (special order only)
Coupe 2.0 TDI S tronic — $73,800 (new)
Coupe 2.0 TFSI S tronic — $75,550
Coupe 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic — $78,150
Roadster 1.8 TFSI S tronic — $72,400 (new)
Roadster 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic — $81,600
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
GM unfriends Facebook
General Motors drops Facebook in favour of more traditional avenues to advertise
Advertising on Facebook doesn't pay, according to General Motors. The car games maker is withdrawing its advertising budget on the social media site, amounting to around $10 million of the $40 million it spends between its fan pages and ads. GM is one of the USA's biggest advertisers.
According to the Wall Street Journal, GM's marketing team including chief Joel Ewanick met with Facebook managers earlier this year "but left unconvinced that advertising on the site made sense".
After word got out that GM was no longer advertising on Facebook its social media agents posted the following on its fan page:
"Just wanted to let our millions of Facebook fans know, we're still here, and we 'like' you back! We may not be advertising on Facebook at the moment but we'll still be talking with you all daily. If anything, we will be providing more content across our many GM Facebook pages -- including Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac -- to keep the dialogue going."
GM's ad-spend withdrawal comes just before Facebook's IPO (scheduled for May 18) which could soften investor interest, according to stock analysts. The pool of money spent on advertising by automakers is the largest of any group and of obvious importance to Facebook.
Local outfits including Mercedes-Benz Australia, Holden and Ford have regularly updated Facebook fan pages, all with thousands of 'likes'.
Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman Jerry Stamoulis told motoring.com.au his company used Facebook as a way to keep its customers and fans informed.
"It's a great platform for talking about what's coming up and about our history," he said. "It allows us to offer information on stuff not always readily seen, like our behind-the-scenes activity in the recent Melbourne Fashion Week."
According to Stamoulis, Mercedes-Benz Australia has identified two types of Facebook fans to its page: Those who are current owners and/or collectors of the brand's products, and enthusiasts interested in buying.
Ford Australia's Facebook page has great content and separate fan pages for owners and fans of the Ford Motor Company, Falcon and Ranger models.
"We utilised Facebook very effectively -- and specifically -- for our Ranger Global Challenge, which was a hit nationally and laid a template for other markets where Ranger is being launched," explained Ford Australia spokesman Neil McDonald.
On Ford Australia's stand regarding Facebook's effectiveness to the industry, McDonald told motoring.com.au: "We think Facebook has an important place when strategically combined with engaging content and innovation. Social media is an effective tool to reach both existing customers -- as well as intending customers -- as well as maintain dialogue with enthusiasts."
Ford Australia admits Facebook is effective "as part of a general strategy but not as a straight media strategy."
It is expected GM's marketing strategy will turn back to television and print advertising, and involve in-showroom deals to customers over the next six months. Its local arm, Holden has the most likes on Facebook of any automotive brand in Australia, at around 290,000.
The Holden Facebook page was developed late 2007 to "connect with our current customers and enthusiasts," said Holden's Social Media and Digital Communications Manager, Andrea Matthews. She couldn't confirm what Holden spends on its Facebook presence however admitted the company had invested a lot of time including a dedicated team of social media representatives.
Holden has previously advertised on Facebook but like GM has no immediate plans to reinvest marketing budget with the site.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
Advertising on Facebook doesn't pay, according to General Motors. The car games maker is withdrawing its advertising budget on the social media site, amounting to around $10 million of the $40 million it spends between its fan pages and ads. GM is one of the USA's biggest advertisers.
According to the Wall Street Journal, GM's marketing team including chief Joel Ewanick met with Facebook managers earlier this year "but left unconvinced that advertising on the site made sense".
After word got out that GM was no longer advertising on Facebook its social media agents posted the following on its fan page:
"Just wanted to let our millions of Facebook fans know, we're still here, and we 'like' you back! We may not be advertising on Facebook at the moment but we'll still be talking with you all daily. If anything, we will be providing more content across our many GM Facebook pages -- including Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac -- to keep the dialogue going."
GM's ad-spend withdrawal comes just before Facebook's IPO (scheduled for May 18) which could soften investor interest, according to stock analysts. The pool of money spent on advertising by automakers is the largest of any group and of obvious importance to Facebook.
Local outfits including Mercedes-Benz Australia, Holden and Ford have regularly updated Facebook fan pages, all with thousands of 'likes'.
Mercedes-Benz Australia spokesman Jerry Stamoulis told motoring.com.au his company used Facebook as a way to keep its customers and fans informed.
"It's a great platform for talking about what's coming up and about our history," he said. "It allows us to offer information on stuff not always readily seen, like our behind-the-scenes activity in the recent Melbourne Fashion Week."
According to Stamoulis, Mercedes-Benz Australia has identified two types of Facebook fans to its page: Those who are current owners and/or collectors of the brand's products, and enthusiasts interested in buying.
Ford Australia's Facebook page has great content and separate fan pages for owners and fans of the Ford Motor Company, Falcon and Ranger models.
"We utilised Facebook very effectively -- and specifically -- for our Ranger Global Challenge, which was a hit nationally and laid a template for other markets where Ranger is being launched," explained Ford Australia spokesman Neil McDonald.
On Ford Australia's stand regarding Facebook's effectiveness to the industry, McDonald told motoring.com.au: "We think Facebook has an important place when strategically combined with engaging content and innovation. Social media is an effective tool to reach both existing customers -- as well as intending customers -- as well as maintain dialogue with enthusiasts."
Ford Australia admits Facebook is effective "as part of a general strategy but not as a straight media strategy."
It is expected GM's marketing strategy will turn back to television and print advertising, and involve in-showroom deals to customers over the next six months. Its local arm, Holden has the most likes on Facebook of any automotive brand in Australia, at around 290,000.
The Holden Facebook page was developed late 2007 to "connect with our current customers and enthusiasts," said Holden's Social Media and Digital Communications Manager, Andrea Matthews. She couldn't confirm what Holden spends on its Facebook presence however admitted the company had invested a lot of time including a dedicated team of social media representatives.
Holden has previously advertised on Facebook but like GM has no immediate plans to reinvest marketing budget with the site.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
Revealed: BMW's next-gen X5
Rendering provides an indication of how BMW’s crucial new large SUV could look when it surfaces next year
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BMW’s E70 X5 is now getting towards the end of its lifespan, and this rendering from Carparazzi shows how its F15 successor could look when it hits the market next year.
Going on the accompanying image, it’s clear BMW isn’t deviating too far from the existing formula, and that’s hardly a surprise given the sales success of the current-gen X5.
Even though long in the tooth, it’s still the market leader in the premium SUV segment, with 798 Australian sales to its credit until the end of April this year. Trailing it are the Land Rover Discovery (700 sales), Range Rover Sport (578 sales) and Volkswagen Touareg (557 sales).
Based on information at hand, the new F15 X5 will be underpinned by a modified version of the chassis that forms the basis for the accomplished F10 5 Series, and it’s likely to achieve significant weight savings over the current E70 model.
As with the current model, the new X5 will be available with straight-six and V8 power, but some sources suggest the line-up may also include the impressive new four-cylinder turbo engines that have debuted in the new 3 Series.
As with the current range, the new X5 line-up will include diesels and an ActiveHybrid version for buyers seeking optimal fuel economy.
Visually, the next-gen model is an evolutionary design, but the smartened up nose with LED headlights brings it in line with the look of the F30 3 Series. Word has it the taillights will also be redesigned to feature the layering concept pioneered by the recent Vision design studies.
The new X5’s flanks are distinguished by the concave/convex surfaces that have been a feature of all recent BMWs, helping alleviate the slabsidedness that can otherwise mar the look of large SUVs.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
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BMW’s E70 X5 is now getting towards the end of its lifespan, and this rendering from Carparazzi shows how its F15 successor could look when it hits the market next year.
Going on the accompanying image, it’s clear BMW isn’t deviating too far from the existing formula, and that’s hardly a surprise given the sales success of the current-gen X5.
Even though long in the tooth, it’s still the market leader in the premium SUV segment, with 798 Australian sales to its credit until the end of April this year. Trailing it are the Land Rover Discovery (700 sales), Range Rover Sport (578 sales) and Volkswagen Touareg (557 sales).
Based on information at hand, the new F15 X5 will be underpinned by a modified version of the chassis that forms the basis for the accomplished F10 5 Series, and it’s likely to achieve significant weight savings over the current E70 model.
As with the current model, the new X5 will be available with straight-six and V8 power, but some sources suggest the line-up may also include the impressive new four-cylinder turbo engines that have debuted in the new 3 Series.
As with the current range, the new X5 line-up will include diesels and an ActiveHybrid version for buyers seeking optimal fuel economy.
Visually, the next-gen model is an evolutionary design, but the smartened up nose with LED headlights brings it in line with the look of the F30 3 Series. Word has it the taillights will also be redesigned to feature the layering concept pioneered by the recent Vision design studies.
The new X5’s flanks are distinguished by the concave/convex surfaces that have been a feature of all recent BMWs, helping alleviate the slabsidedness that can otherwise mar the look of large SUVs.
Read the latest news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Thứ Hai, 2 tháng 4, 2012
AIMS: Hyundai brings blue focus to green stage
Blue-Will hybrid concept joins 2011 model range at Sydney Motor Show
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Hyundai Hyundai's Blue-Will hybrid concept joined the Korean brand's 2011 line-up at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The futuristic model features petrol electric hybrid and plug-in technology in the one, sleek package.
First displayed at this year's Detroit Motor Show Blue-Will serves as a test-bed of new ideas from the Hyundai design studio, ranging from roof-mounted solar cells to drive-by-wire steering, lithium polymer batteries, thermal energy conversion from the exhaust system (to electricity) and touch-screen controls.
Hyundai says Blue-Will "portrays future focused hybrid production vehicles and promises an electric-only driving distance of up to 64km on a single charge. In hybrid mode it boasts a claimed fuel economy rating of more than 2.22L/ 100km".
The lively concept featured alongside conventionally powered models, including the revised i45 medium sedan, i20 light hatch, as well as Targa West and Targa Tasmania competitor, the i30 CRDi hatch.
The revised 2011 i45 sedan sees a chance in suspension for the new year, spring, stabiliser and damper rates all adjusted to better suit Australian conditions. Also joining the i45 is satellite navigation (optional on all models, standard on Elite) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity (standard on all models).
Elsewhere in the Hyundai line-up, a specially commissioned pocket-sized i20 is on show at the RTA 'Myplates' display, the car games matching a wall mural by local Sydney artists Beastman & Numskull who created the vibrant work over three days in an underground workspace in Sydney. Using aerosol paint only, the collaboration of the two distinct styles sees bright colours and organic patterns illustrate nature morphing with an exciting urban lifestyle.
Lastly, the mostly standard i30 CRDi rally car, although modified to meet CAMS rally car safety standards, joins its plain-painted brethren on the Sydney stage.
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Hyundai Hyundai's Blue-Will hybrid concept joined the Korean brand's 2011 line-up at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney. The futuristic model features petrol electric hybrid and plug-in technology in the one, sleek package.
First displayed at this year's Detroit Motor Show Blue-Will serves as a test-bed of new ideas from the Hyundai design studio, ranging from roof-mounted solar cells to drive-by-wire steering, lithium polymer batteries, thermal energy conversion from the exhaust system (to electricity) and touch-screen controls.
Hyundai says Blue-Will "portrays future focused hybrid production vehicles and promises an electric-only driving distance of up to 64km on a single charge. In hybrid mode it boasts a claimed fuel economy rating of more than 2.22L/ 100km".
The lively concept featured alongside conventionally powered models, including the revised i45 medium sedan, i20 light hatch, as well as Targa West and Targa Tasmania competitor, the i30 CRDi hatch.
The revised 2011 i45 sedan sees a chance in suspension for the new year, spring, stabiliser and damper rates all adjusted to better suit Australian conditions. Also joining the i45 is satellite navigation (optional on all models, standard on Elite) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity (standard on all models).
Elsewhere in the Hyundai line-up, a specially commissioned pocket-sized i20 is on show at the RTA 'Myplates' display, the car games matching a wall mural by local Sydney artists Beastman & Numskull who created the vibrant work over three days in an underground workspace in Sydney. Using aerosol paint only, the collaboration of the two distinct styles sees bright colours and organic patterns illustrate nature morphing with an exciting urban lifestyle.
Lastly, the mostly standard i30 CRDi rally car, although modified to meet CAMS rally car safety standards, joins its plain-painted brethren on the Sydney stage.
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site.
AIMS: FT-86G Coupe makes Australian premiere
Sporting character set to redefine the Toyota brand in the not-too-distant future, with the new model on sale post 2012
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Toyota took the covers off its sporty FT-86G Coupe at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, the second concept to preview the brand's next-generation rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, following the original FT-86 concept unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo motor show.
Toyota Australia's senior executive director of sales and marketing, David Buttner, told the Carsales Network: "We can expect to see the FT-86 in local showrooms post 2012".
Pricing and local specifications will be announced late next year.
The FT-86G Coupe will fill the void in Toyota's line-up left by the departure of models like the Celica and MR2, and shares a character reminiscent of the now legendary Hachi Roku (or AE86) Corollas of the early 1980's, now prized among those on the Drifting circuit.
The "G" moniker is Toyota shorthand for sports conversion models and signifies a more aggressive styling and performance makeover. In the case of FT-86G, this translates to sharper sheetmetal and sleeker overall measurements, the coupe sitting even lower, wider and longer than its derivative model.
Highlights include a remoulded front fascia with larger air intake, exposed intercooler and vented bonnet. At the rear a large carbon-fibre wing, revised diffuser and oversized twin exhausts round out the exterior changes.
Under the bonnet, FT-86G receives a "specially tuned" version of the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Toyota says the front-engine, rear-drive FT-86G has received a significant performance upgrade.
"G" rides on 19-inch Bridgestone rubber while inside, Recaro seats have been installed in a nod to the added performance on tap.
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Toyota
Toyota took the covers off its sporty FT-86G Coupe at the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney, the second concept to preview the brand's next-generation rear-wheel-drive sports coupe, following the original FT-86 concept unveiled at the 2009 Tokyo motor show.
Toyota Australia's senior executive director of sales and marketing, David Buttner, told the Carsales Network: "We can expect to see the FT-86 in local showrooms post 2012".
Pricing and local specifications will be announced late next year.
The FT-86G Coupe will fill the void in Toyota's line-up left by the departure of models like the Celica and MR2, and shares a character reminiscent of the now legendary Hachi Roku (or AE86) Corollas of the early 1980's, now prized among those on the Drifting circuit.
The "G" moniker is Toyota shorthand for sports conversion models and signifies a more aggressive styling and performance makeover. In the case of FT-86G, this translates to sharper sheetmetal and sleeker overall measurements, the coupe sitting even lower, wider and longer than its derivative model.
Highlights include a remoulded front fascia with larger air intake, exposed intercooler and vented bonnet. At the rear a large carbon-fibre wing, revised diffuser and oversized twin exhausts round out the exterior changes.
Under the bonnet, FT-86G receives a "specially tuned" version of the same 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Toyota says the front-engine, rear-drive FT-86G has received a significant performance upgrade.
"G" rides on 19-inch Bridgestone rubber while inside, Recaro seats have been installed in a nod to the added performance on tap.
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site
AIMS: Lexus recovery starts here
Super-sharp pricing on new IS350 shocks luxury market, as Lexus aims to boost sales among performance prestige car buyers
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Lexus
After a forgettable sales month in September, Lexus shocked the luxury car market at the Sydney motor show today by announcing a new performance V6 that undercuts the German opposition by between $20,000 and $30,000.
Indeed, all three models in the new IS350 sedan range limbo under the starting price of the nearest competitor – and outgun the performance six-cylinder Germans in the 0-100km/h dash. Starting at $64,800, the IS350 Prestige is only $8000 dearer than a regular IS250 model and comes with navigation, leather upholstery, metallic paint, Bluetooth phone connection and 17-inch alloy wheels. An F-Sport edition with 18-inch charcoal wheels and carbon-fibre interior and other enhancements brings the price to $71,800 while the top of the IS350 range is $81,300.
The nearest German rival, the Audi A4 3.2 V6 is $88,000, the Mercedes-Benz C300 is $90,000 and the BMW 335i $110,000.
Although the BMW is turbocharged and has more torque, the IS350 has more power and is faster from 0-100km/h with a time of 5.6 seconds.
Lexus Australia Tony Cramb says IS350 and the F-Sport sub-brand are important steps for Lexus Australia.
"We're extremely happy to be able to get the IS350 here at this price," said Cramb. "We've been working hard for a long time to get the car here at the price we've achieved and we think this will really give the IS another boost.
"F-Sport adds another dimension to our brand. Australian buyers are interested in sportier versions of our cars and this will help bring younger buyers to the brand."
Lexus had a tough month in September, with sales down 38 per cent in a market that was up 9 per cent. In particular, IS250 sales took a hit -- down 40 per cent – although year to date IS250 sales are tracking with the industry, up 15 per cent.
"We're confident this is the type of car that will put Lexus on the shopping list for a lot of performance prestige customers," he said. "This car basically plugs the gap between the IS250 and our flagship model, the IS-F."
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
prestige new cars » Get the best price on a new Lexus
After a forgettable sales month in September, Lexus shocked the luxury car market at the Sydney motor show today by announcing a new performance V6 that undercuts the German opposition by between $20,000 and $30,000.
Indeed, all three models in the new IS350 sedan range limbo under the starting price of the nearest competitor – and outgun the performance six-cylinder Germans in the 0-100km/h dash. Starting at $64,800, the IS350 Prestige is only $8000 dearer than a regular IS250 model and comes with navigation, leather upholstery, metallic paint, Bluetooth phone connection and 17-inch alloy wheels. An F-Sport edition with 18-inch charcoal wheels and carbon-fibre interior and other enhancements brings the price to $71,800 while the top of the IS350 range is $81,300.
The nearest German rival, the Audi A4 3.2 V6 is $88,000, the Mercedes-Benz C300 is $90,000 and the BMW 335i $110,000.
Although the BMW is turbocharged and has more torque, the IS350 has more power and is faster from 0-100km/h with a time of 5.6 seconds.
Lexus Australia Tony Cramb says IS350 and the F-Sport sub-brand are important steps for Lexus Australia.
"We're extremely happy to be able to get the IS350 here at this price," said Cramb. "We've been working hard for a long time to get the car here at the price we've achieved and we think this will really give the IS another boost.
"F-Sport adds another dimension to our brand. Australian buyers are interested in sportier versions of our cars and this will help bring younger buyers to the brand."
Lexus had a tough month in September, with sales down 38 per cent in a market that was up 9 per cent. In particular, IS250 sales took a hit -- down 40 per cent – although year to date IS250 sales are tracking with the industry, up 15 per cent.
"We're confident this is the type of car that will put Lexus on the shopping list for a lot of performance prestige customers," he said. "This car basically plugs the gap between the IS250 and our flagship model, the IS-F."
For our full coverage of the Australian International Motor Show in Sydney visit our minisite at carsales.com.au/aims
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site.
Thứ Năm, 29 tháng 3, 2012
Facelift, more models and price cut for IS
Lexus has revamped its IS range with more equipment grades, a new 3.5-litre V6 and sharper pricing
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Lexus is gunning for BMW, Audi and Mercedes with its revamped, revitalised and repriced IS range. Now boasting 10 variants, including two all-new F Sport models, the face-lifted IS range now includes beefed-up '350' family members.
Powered by a direct-injected 3.5-litre V6, the new IS350 range is aimed at the likes of BMW's 335i and V6 equivalents from Audi and Mercedes-Benz. Lexus is claiming class-leading performance with a 0-100km/h time of 5.6sec, in part thanks to the new powerplant's segment-busting 233kW output.
Though equipped to higher levels than equivalent IS250 models, the IS350 range echoes its less powerful sibling by offering entry-level Prestige and top of the range Sports Luxury variants as well as the new, focused F Sport versions.
Include in the new IS lineup are three variants of the IS250C coupe cabriolet and the V8-engined IS F super sedan.
The new IS350 Prestige is priced from $64,800, a premium of $9000 over the equivalent IS250 variant. The F Sport kicks off at $71,800 with the Sports Luxury topping out the four-door IS line-up at $81,300.
All IS250 models have had their pricetags trimmed with the 350's arrival. At $55,800 the Prestige has dropped $100, while the $76,300 Sports Luxury is $1000 cheaper than the model it replaces. The new F Sport 250 is $66,800 -- $1500 less than initially announced.
The price changes and the new IS350's arrival correspond with a midlife freshening for the IS lineup. Key differences include an interior tidy up as well as detailed changes across the car.
Most obvious though are the new upper and lower front grilles and bumper, and the arrival of daylight running lamps (DRL) on all 350s (as well as selected 250 models). New alloy wheels that step up an inch in diameter help deliver a more purposeful stance to the midsize exec.
Include in the revamped IS range's standard equipment list are items that Lexus claims European equivalents still charge extra for. Indeed, Lexus states that depending on the model, the IS enjoys a $30,000-plus advantage over equivalent Euros. By way of comparison, metallic paint, high-spec audio, heated front seats, full leather, eight airbags and reversing cameras are all standard on all updated IS models.
The 350 variants add a DVD-based satnav and HID headlamps with daylight running lamps at both Prestige and F Sport grades. The Sports Luxury 350 adds sunroof, adaptive cruise control, seat cooling, Lexus advanced pre-collision system with auto brake and more.
Selected facelift updates also make their way onto the IS250C and the IS F performance flagship. In the case of the M3-baiting IS F, Lexus has tweaked the rear suspension settings as well as incorporating a new face, DRLs et al. The updated mechanical limited slip differential that was added as a running change in 2009 is retained in the latest IS F.
It's the IS350 F Sport that will get the lion's share of attention at launch, however. A calling card for Lexus' new sports sub-brand, the auto-only sports sedan gets bespoke, lower (10mm) sports suspension with stiffer springs and uprated dampers, upgraded brakes with four-piston monobloc front calipers and reprogrammed electric power steering.
The F Sport 'signature' look includes more aggressive front bodywork and unique upper and low grilles and a rear boot lid spoiler borrowed from the IS F parts bin.
The F's influence continues inside the cabin in the shape of a smaller diameter steering wheel, alloy pedals and leather shifter. Tweaked IS F front sport seats are used, though the F Sport retains a three-place rear bench in lieu of the IS F's buckets.
For the record the IS F program has also donated suspension components to the F Sport, including rear suspension bushes.
While the standard IS350 also gets an upgraded brake package, only the F Sport models (250 and 350) sport wider rear wheels and rubber. All 18s, the rears are 0.5-inches wider at 8.5-inch. Tyres are 225/40 at the pointy end, and at rear -- 255/40s. Bridgestone ER33 Turanzas are standard.
Lexus Australia execs say the arrival of the 350 and the F Sport brand are key to the brand's growth in both the short and medium term.
IS currently accounts for around 40 per cent of Lexus' local volume. Via the facelift, F Sport variants and the arrival of the 350, local boss Tony Cramb is looking to boost overall IS sales. Though he expects some substitution between 250 and 350, incremental volume should increase around 25 per cent, he says.
"IS350 pricing is critical for Lexus -- it has to be realistic. It has to achieve a position of leadership and it has to bring new competition to the luxury sedan segment... Just because you can charge a premium for luxury vehicles doesn't mean you have to," Cramb told the Carsales Network.
"We're really throwing down a challenge to our competitors [with the 350 range]... We identified a massive opportunity in the $65-80K [price range] and we believe we have set a new benchmark for value in the segment.
"The [new] car is well specified and great value. We believe the market will reward us," Cramb stated.
Look out for our launch review of the new IS350 F Sport soon.
Key to pics: XZD 734 IS 350 F Sport, XZD 732 IS 350 Prestige, XZD 740 IS 350 Sports Luxury
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars games » Get the best price on a new Lexus
Lexus is gunning for BMW, Audi and Mercedes with its revamped, revitalised and repriced IS range. Now boasting 10 variants, including two all-new F Sport models, the face-lifted IS range now includes beefed-up '350' family members.
Powered by a direct-injected 3.5-litre V6, the new IS350 range is aimed at the likes of BMW's 335i and V6 equivalents from Audi and Mercedes-Benz. Lexus is claiming class-leading performance with a 0-100km/h time of 5.6sec, in part thanks to the new powerplant's segment-busting 233kW output.
Though equipped to higher levels than equivalent IS250 models, the IS350 range echoes its less powerful sibling by offering entry-level Prestige and top of the range Sports Luxury variants as well as the new, focused F Sport versions.
Include in the new IS lineup are three variants of the IS250C coupe cabriolet and the V8-engined IS F super sedan.
The new IS350 Prestige is priced from $64,800, a premium of $9000 over the equivalent IS250 variant. The F Sport kicks off at $71,800 with the Sports Luxury topping out the four-door IS line-up at $81,300.
All IS250 models have had their pricetags trimmed with the 350's arrival. At $55,800 the Prestige has dropped $100, while the $76,300 Sports Luxury is $1000 cheaper than the model it replaces. The new F Sport 250 is $66,800 -- $1500 less than initially announced.
The price changes and the new IS350's arrival correspond with a midlife freshening for the IS lineup. Key differences include an interior tidy up as well as detailed changes across the car.
Most obvious though are the new upper and lower front grilles and bumper, and the arrival of daylight running lamps (DRL) on all 350s (as well as selected 250 models). New alloy wheels that step up an inch in diameter help deliver a more purposeful stance to the midsize exec.
Include in the revamped IS range's standard equipment list are items that Lexus claims European equivalents still charge extra for. Indeed, Lexus states that depending on the model, the IS enjoys a $30,000-plus advantage over equivalent Euros. By way of comparison, metallic paint, high-spec audio, heated front seats, full leather, eight airbags and reversing cameras are all standard on all updated IS models.
The 350 variants add a DVD-based satnav and HID headlamps with daylight running lamps at both Prestige and F Sport grades. The Sports Luxury 350 adds sunroof, adaptive cruise control, seat cooling, Lexus advanced pre-collision system with auto brake and more.
Selected facelift updates also make their way onto the IS250C and the IS F performance flagship. In the case of the M3-baiting IS F, Lexus has tweaked the rear suspension settings as well as incorporating a new face, DRLs et al. The updated mechanical limited slip differential that was added as a running change in 2009 is retained in the latest IS F.
It's the IS350 F Sport that will get the lion's share of attention at launch, however. A calling card for Lexus' new sports sub-brand, the auto-only sports sedan gets bespoke, lower (10mm) sports suspension with stiffer springs and uprated dampers, upgraded brakes with four-piston monobloc front calipers and reprogrammed electric power steering.
The F Sport 'signature' look includes more aggressive front bodywork and unique upper and low grilles and a rear boot lid spoiler borrowed from the IS F parts bin.
The F's influence continues inside the cabin in the shape of a smaller diameter steering wheel, alloy pedals and leather shifter. Tweaked IS F front sport seats are used, though the F Sport retains a three-place rear bench in lieu of the IS F's buckets.
For the record the IS F program has also donated suspension components to the F Sport, including rear suspension bushes.
While the standard IS350 also gets an upgraded brake package, only the F Sport models (250 and 350) sport wider rear wheels and rubber. All 18s, the rears are 0.5-inches wider at 8.5-inch. Tyres are 225/40 at the pointy end, and at rear -- 255/40s. Bridgestone ER33 Turanzas are standard.
Lexus Australia execs say the arrival of the 350 and the F Sport brand are key to the brand's growth in both the short and medium term.
IS currently accounts for around 40 per cent of Lexus' local volume. Via the facelift, F Sport variants and the arrival of the 350, local boss Tony Cramb is looking to boost overall IS sales. Though he expects some substitution between 250 and 350, incremental volume should increase around 25 per cent, he says.
"IS350 pricing is critical for Lexus -- it has to be realistic. It has to achieve a position of leadership and it has to bring new competition to the luxury sedan segment... Just because you can charge a premium for luxury vehicles doesn't mean you have to," Cramb told the Carsales Network.
"We're really throwing down a challenge to our competitors [with the 350 range]... We identified a massive opportunity in the $65-80K [price range] and we believe we have set a new benchmark for value in the segment.
"The [new] car is well specified and great value. We believe the market will reward us," Cramb stated.
Look out for our launch review of the new IS350 F Sport soon.
Key to pics: XZD 734 IS 350 F Sport, XZD 732 IS 350 Prestige, XZD 740 IS 350 Sports Luxury
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
VW Passat R36 now a collector's item
That's all folks! High-powered Passat exits stage right
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One of Australia's favourite executive-express sedans (and wagons) has reached the end of the road.
The high-powered Passat R36 -- at the time it was launched, the fastest production car to ever wear the Volkswagen badge -- is no more.
Once the existing cars in dealer stock in Australia are sold they cannot be replaced.
"There are only a handful of cars left in dealer-land and once they're gone, that's it," VW Australia spokesman Karl Gehling told the Carsales Network at the launch of the new Passat in Barcelona overnight.
"We can't order any more, the factory is not making any more, so once these cars are gone, that'll be it for Passat R36."
The new generation Passat is due to arrive in Australian showrooms in the first half of next year -- and there will not be an R model to accompany it. The lack of a Passat R36 is in line with VW's move away from the 'R' branding, as we reported a few months ago.
Although there will be a version of the new Passat powered by the same 3.6-litre V6 (220kW and 350Nm) engine used in the R36, it will not get the performance wheels and tyres, suspension, sports seats or body kit.
It is also unclear whether or not it will even get the R36's high performance brakes, despite the potent acceleration (0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds).
"The R36 has been a very important and very popular car for us in Australia, but unfortunately it is time for it to have a break," said Gehling.
At its peak, the R36 accounted for almost one in five of Passat sales. Although it was popular in Australia, other key markets didn't take as much of a liking to it, preferring instead to opt for the smaller Volkswagen R cars.
"There is definitely a market there for a sports-prestige version of the Passat but we will have to wait and see what the engineers come up with," Gehling observed.
It is unclear what engine will power the next generation Passat R car, although it is believed to be at least two years away. Emissions being a future concern and VW apparently moving away from the in-your-face aspect of the R cars, the next premium-grade Passat may be labeled 'Exclusive', as we reported of the Touareg on Monday.
The current Passat R36 was released in June 2008 in sedan ($64,990) and wagon ($66,990) and was upgraded three times over the past four years.
A quick search on the Carsales website this morning under 'new cars' found about two dozen R36s for sale -- in sedan and wagon body styles -- but already some of them had modest price premiums given their popularity and the lack of an immediate successor. Prices ranged from $68,888 to $86,888 drive-away.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
discount new cars » Get the best price on a new Volkswagen
One of Australia's favourite executive-express sedans (and wagons) has reached the end of the road.
The high-powered Passat R36 -- at the time it was launched, the fastest production car to ever wear the Volkswagen badge -- is no more.
Once the existing cars in dealer stock in Australia are sold they cannot be replaced.
"There are only a handful of cars left in dealer-land and once they're gone, that's it," VW Australia spokesman Karl Gehling told the Carsales Network at the launch of the new Passat in Barcelona overnight.
"We can't order any more, the factory is not making any more, so once these cars are gone, that'll be it for Passat R36."
The new generation Passat is due to arrive in Australian showrooms in the first half of next year -- and there will not be an R model to accompany it. The lack of a Passat R36 is in line with VW's move away from the 'R' branding, as we reported a few months ago.
Although there will be a version of the new Passat powered by the same 3.6-litre V6 (220kW and 350Nm) engine used in the R36, it will not get the performance wheels and tyres, suspension, sports seats or body kit.
It is also unclear whether or not it will even get the R36's high performance brakes, despite the potent acceleration (0 to 100km/h in 5.6 seconds).
"The R36 has been a very important and very popular car for us in Australia, but unfortunately it is time for it to have a break," said Gehling.
At its peak, the R36 accounted for almost one in five of Passat sales. Although it was popular in Australia, other key markets didn't take as much of a liking to it, preferring instead to opt for the smaller Volkswagen R cars.
"There is definitely a market there for a sports-prestige version of the Passat but we will have to wait and see what the engineers come up with," Gehling observed.
It is unclear what engine will power the next generation Passat R car, although it is believed to be at least two years away. Emissions being a future concern and VW apparently moving away from the in-your-face aspect of the R cars, the next premium-grade Passat may be labeled 'Exclusive', as we reported of the Touareg on Monday.
The current Passat R36 was released in June 2008 in sedan ($64,990) and wagon ($66,990) and was upgraded three times over the past four years.
A quick search on the Carsales website this morning under 'new cars' found about two dozen R36s for sale -- in sedan and wagon body styles -- but already some of them had modest price premiums given their popularity and the lack of an immediate successor. Prices ranged from $68,888 to $86,888 drive-away.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
Lexus pushes performance
Not content to live on luxury, Lexus is pursuing performance
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If you're a performance car enthusiast Lexus has you in its sights. Not content to live off its luxury-oriented lineup, the Toyota-owned top shelf marque is pushing performance as a key part of its growth strategy for the 20-teens.
With the arrival of the facelifted IS range Down Under, Lexus has launched its F Sport brand into the market. Offered as bespoke models in both IS250 and IS350 versions, the F Sports feature recalibrated steering and suspension as well as upgraded brakes, sports seats and exterior differentiation such as bigger wheels and bodykits -- including front and rear spoilers.
Priced midway between entry level Prestige and top of the range Sports Luxury models in their respective capacity segments, the F Sports approximate Audi's S line and BMW M Sport models.
And, say Lexus insiders, the similarity doesn't end there. Like the Germans, it's Lexus' plan to pursue a pyramid of performance with F Sport filling the role as the volume sporties and more aggressive F models above them. The limited edition LF-A supercar and its decedents will sit at the Lexus performance pyramid peak.
The new strategy was spelled out by local Lexus chief, Tony Cramb, at the IS350 launch in Tasmania this week. Though Cramb was careful not to reveal any formal details of future F model plans, he made it clear that the marque was serious about its commitment to a performance strategy.
He hinted strongly that F models above and beyond the existing IS F were a key part of the play.
"Performance is part of a global, long term, serious strategy," Cramb spelled out to the Carsales Network.
"This [F Sport] is a serious commitment... If we can launch more F models that will give F more credibility [as a serious performance sub-brand], this will flow on to F Sport."
Cramb says European and US Lexus execs are aligned with Lexus Australia on the importance of F and F Sport.
"Currently there is a whole lot of customers we can't service [with our current lineup]. We definitely need to broaden our range of vehicles. The local launch of the IS350 [gives us access to new performance oriented customers] but clearly there are other segments we aren't servicing. Over time we will expand the lineup," Cramb explained.
Cramb was tight lipped on the rollout or even the existence of confirmed F models or indeed new F Sports. Lexus' 5 series/E-Class competitor, the GS is the next vehicle due for renewal in Lexus' existing cycle plan. It's a car Cramb believes will make a good second F model and F Sport range addition.
"[The next GS] Would be a very suitable car, if we are looking to expand the F range. But it's not locked and loaded," he says.
According to Cramb, hybrid will still be an important part of Lexus DNA. That said, his comments suggest that perhaps Lexus' performance hybrid days are numbered.
The way forward for the brand may well be a two-pronged strategy of performance and hybrid. Performance injects passion into the Lexus 'family' and via hybrid the marque will address customers with an environmental bent or more urban focus.
The new CT200h is a case in point. Stung by criticism of the car at its European launch, Cramb says an F Sport version of the CT will still come to Australia. He says the focus will be on handling and agility rather than any power-up strategy. Equally he admits there may well be Lexus hybrids launched in the future that do not justify F Sport variants.
"Our consistent brand value is innovation. Why wouldn't we invest in technology and be able to connect with what the customer wants -- be it performance [or ecologically focussed vehicles].
"There's a vast number of [new] customers out there that want different [opposite] things. We are in a transition stage," Cramb opined.
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If you're a performance car enthusiast Lexus has you in its sights. Not content to live off its luxury-oriented lineup, the Toyota-owned top shelf marque is pushing performance as a key part of its growth strategy for the 20-teens.
With the arrival of the facelifted IS range Down Under, Lexus has launched its F Sport brand into the market. Offered as bespoke models in both IS250 and IS350 versions, the F Sports feature recalibrated steering and suspension as well as upgraded brakes, sports seats and exterior differentiation such as bigger wheels and bodykits -- including front and rear spoilers.
Priced midway between entry level Prestige and top of the range Sports Luxury models in their respective capacity segments, the F Sports approximate Audi's S line and BMW M Sport models.
And, say Lexus insiders, the similarity doesn't end there. Like the Germans, it's Lexus' plan to pursue a pyramid of performance with F Sport filling the role as the volume sporties and more aggressive F models above them. The limited edition LF-A supercar and its decedents will sit at the Lexus performance pyramid peak.
The new strategy was spelled out by local Lexus chief, Tony Cramb, at the IS350 launch in Tasmania this week. Though Cramb was careful not to reveal any formal details of future F model plans, he made it clear that the marque was serious about its commitment to a performance strategy.
He hinted strongly that F models above and beyond the existing IS F were a key part of the play.
"Performance is part of a global, long term, serious strategy," Cramb spelled out to the Carsales Network.
"This [F Sport] is a serious commitment... If we can launch more F models that will give F more credibility [as a serious performance sub-brand], this will flow on to F Sport."
Cramb says European and US Lexus execs are aligned with Lexus Australia on the importance of F and F Sport.
"Currently there is a whole lot of customers we can't service [with our current lineup]. We definitely need to broaden our range of vehicles. The local launch of the IS350 [gives us access to new performance oriented customers] but clearly there are other segments we aren't servicing. Over time we will expand the lineup," Cramb explained.
Cramb was tight lipped on the rollout or even the existence of confirmed F models or indeed new F Sports. Lexus' 5 series/E-Class competitor, the GS is the next vehicle due for renewal in Lexus' existing cycle plan. It's a car Cramb believes will make a good second F model and F Sport range addition.
"[The next GS] Would be a very suitable car, if we are looking to expand the F range. But it's not locked and loaded," he says.
According to Cramb, hybrid will still be an important part of Lexus DNA. That said, his comments suggest that perhaps Lexus' performance hybrid days are numbered.
The way forward for the brand may well be a two-pronged strategy of performance and hybrid. Performance injects passion into the Lexus 'family' and via hybrid the marque will address customers with an environmental bent or more urban focus.
The new CT200h is a case in point. Stung by criticism of the car at its European launch, Cramb says an F Sport version of the CT will still come to Australia. He says the focus will be on handling and agility rather than any power-up strategy. Equally he admits there may well be Lexus hybrids launched in the future that do not justify F Sport variants.
"Our consistent brand value is innovation. Why wouldn't we invest in technology and be able to connect with what the customer wants -- be it performance [or ecologically focussed vehicles].
"There's a vast number of [new] customers out there that want different [opposite] things. We are in a transition stage," Cramb opined.
Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at carsales' mobile site...
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