Attack of the Furries 2 tower defense

tower defense

 Attack of the Furries 2 tower defense

Description Game:

More turrets, more resources, more furries. Kill them all and defend your path.
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How to play Game:

Horror House

maze game

  Horror House

Description Game:

Enter the Horror House and follow the eery shadows and sounds that move from room to room. The house has five scary rooms, can you handle this scary game?

How to play Game:

Defend your Honor tower defense

defense games

  Defend your Honor tower defense

Description Game:

Go on a tower defense quest to find the king’s golden statue
(Visited 14 times, 1 visits today)

How to play Game:

Sea of Fire

Kizi

 Sea of Fire

Game description: Build your base and destroy you opponents base!  
Game controls: Use mouse for game interaction

Happy Dinosaur Bike

happy wheels 2

  Happy Dinosaur Bike

Description Game:

Cute dinosaur is a bike stunt master. Now he is riding his bike on a very rough road. As he is so skilled at biking. I am certain he will reach to the destination safely!

How to play Game:

Use arrow keys to drive.

Naruto Bmx Challenge

dirt bike games

Naruto Bmx Challenge

Description Game:

Naruto and his Bmx challenge, Complete the given task and unlock new levels in this game of naruto bmx challenge perform backflips and front flips to gain points. Have Fun!

How to play Game:

Use arrow keys to Ride.

Fallout Racer

disney cars

 Fallout Racer

Description Game:

Fallout racer is a racing and shooting game combined. You are the last remaining driver and you have to take down the alien cars by shooting them. Complete the missions and buy new upgrades for your car. Go drive your car around and shoot the enemies!
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How to play Game:

Use the mouse to aim and shoot, the WASD keys to drive around.

Plus Plus

Cool math for kids

 Plus Plus

Description Game:

You have to think fast. Look up in the window one or several contiguous numbers that result from the add quantity that appears in the right circle.
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How to play Game:

Use mouse to interact.

Blobber

Game Info - Eat all balls that are smaller than you and go to the next level.
Game controls - Use mouse to move.

Princess Kiss

Game Info - The Princess must kiss her Prince when nobody's looking.
Game controls - Click and hold the mouse on princess to kiss. Release the mouse when pop up appears otherwise will busted.

Buzz Lightyear of Star Command

Game Info - Help Buzz Lightyear complete the missions
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Shoot.

Goal Street

Game Info - Kick the soccer ball at the right angle with the right power to make a goal.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.

Stalingrad Sprint

Game Info - Sprint your way to victory but also avoid missiles falling down from the sky and kill your enemies on your path.
Game controls - Use arrow keys to move and space bar to shoot.

Grizzly Adventure

Game Info - Grizzly adventure is a colorful Platformer game with a massive 30 levels in 3 different worlds. And even more custom levels submitted by the grizzly community.. You can beat opponents by jumping on them or throwing apples on theirs noses!
Game controls - Arrow keys- To move.
Space bar- To jump.
Use the mouse cursor to control the map editor, in case you want to create your own custom world!

League of Super Evil: Frogg Rocket

Game Info - Dodge hazards to stay flying longer! Fly for longer to earn more points! Use the mouse to dodge left and right. The mouse button activates your detonator. When used, it destroys all hazards on the screen. Grab boosters for a short speed burst!
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Show Doll

Game Info - Put some cool clothes on this sweet girl.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Survive The Island

Game Info - Scooby Do Shaggy are stranded and have to catch the coconuts to survive.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Stickman Sam 2

Game Info - The most awaited sequel to the Stickman Sam series is here! He's on for one exciting mission once again.
Game controls - A/D - Move Left / Right.
Left Mouse Key - To shoot.
W - Jump.
E - Next weapon.
Q - Previous weapon.

Image Disorder Natalie Imbruglia

Game Info - Hailing from down under, Natalie practically rose form obscurity to fame with her hit song, "Torn" and follow up, "Wishing I Was There."
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Girl Makeover 5

Game Info - 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.

Street Fighter 2

Game Info - Play the famous fighting game street fighter in flash version!
Game controls - Hadoken = A+S or A+D or S+D SHORYUKEN = HADOKEN + DOWN FLYING KICK = Z + X (there are more combos)

Shopping Girl 3 Dress Up

Game Info - A funny dress game all about shopping! Prepare this young woman for a cool shopping trip in Australia.
Game controls - Use Mouse to interact.

Jimmy and Timmy Power Hour 2: Co-Pilot Chaos

Game Info - First choose the game's difficulty level. Secondly, choose between Jimmy and Timmy, one pilots the rocket the other fires weapons from th back seat. Eliminate enemies to earn big stars and neutrons.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
B - Fire Punch Device.
Spacebar - Drop some heavy junk.

This Bunny Kills

Game Info - Swing your blades and kill bunnies as they get harder and harder. How many can you kill?
Game controls - A to attack.
S to use special move.
D to to be invisible.
Arrow keys to move.

League of Super Evil: Air Voltar

Game Info - The Mighty Skullossus is undefeated in the time-honoured sport of villain punting. Voltar is desperate to break that record and get his name into the Big Book of World Wreckers, mostly because it comes with a free t-shirt and a a year's supply of Evil-brand cocoa. But Skullossus is not about to give up without a fight....
Game controls - Use mouse to play the game.

Kiss Me Quickly

Game Info - Kiss your guy quickly, because soon your family will see what is happening. Parents have a good heart but are too protective.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Best Interior Design Emo

Game Info - Decorate Erika's or Brian's rooms for two very different reasons, his because he wants to impress her with his emo style and hers to clean it up before her parents arrive.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Guitar Hero Hero

Game Info - Do you have what it takes to be a true Guitar Hero Hero?
Game controls - This game is played with Arrow Keys.

Fishdom Frosty Splash

Game Info - Clear the gold backgrounds of each level as you align 3 or more of the same symbols.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

To Buy the Full Version of this game Click Here!

Lasagna Cooking

Game Info - In this cooking game you are making a meal following the recipe. Cook lasagna following the instructions and store this recipe to make a real lasagna.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Tessa's Holiday Home

Game Info - This is a part of the Tessa series. During holidays and vacations, Tessa goes to her holiday home near the beach. It's a beautiful house with a lovely garden, a terrace with place enough to have a barbeque during the evening, a Jacuzzi for relaxing and a beautiful swimming pool on top of the house with a view to the sea. I would like to stay there for vacation and I think you would like to stay there, too. You can decorate everything in this house the way you like it, and you can put Tessa and her friends on the places you like.
Game controls - This game is played with mouse only.

Sponge Bob SquarePants Patty Panic

Game Info - Run over the food pieces so they drop and make hamburgers. Watch out for baddies.
Game controls - Arrow Keys - Move.
Spacebar - Attack.

Coffee Shop

Game description: Run your own Coffee Shop! You have a limited # of days, so make sure to maximize cash, save inventory, and if you reputation gets high enough you might even get a visit from a special guest. Can you become the next Starbucks?  
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.

Barbie as Rapunzel

Game description: Click the paint spots to change her dress. Click on the brushes to change her hair. Click and stick on pretty things like bows, crowns, jewels and more! When you're done click next to meet the prince.  
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.

Judy and Benji

Game description: Dress this cute couple up.  
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.

Toy Invaders

Game description: Shoot’em’up in Toy Story’s universe.
 Game controls: Use mouse to move and shoot. Space bar for secondary fire.

RiffMaster

Game description: Select your difficulty and strum away on your guitar as you try to play the song correctly.  
Game controls: ASDJKL to play.

Solid Rider Game

Game description: Ride your motorcycle as you jump caverns, perform stunts, and even duck through small passages.  
Game controls: A for rear break. S for front break. Arrow keys to drive.

Make Me Pretty

Game description: Choose the best dress, accessories and make up so that this girl has a whole new look. Game controls: Use mouse to interact.

Galaga

Game description: Old flash retro remake of Galaga!  
Game controls: Left / Right Arrow Keys - Move. Spacebar - Shoot.

Sweet Holiday Girl

Game description: Want to go glamorous for a holiday bash in a hurry? Try one of these three gorgeous eye looks in luxurious metallics.  
Game controls: Use mouse to interact.

Sponge Bob Square Pants: Bikini Bottom Carnival

Game description: Help Sponge Bob and Patrick in who's the better between them in the carnival games.
Game controls: In every tent their are different instructions in playing the game and before the game begin the instructions will be given. 

Learn to Fly 2

Game description: Upgrade your gear to get as far as you can. Slam into snowmen and icebergs. Jam packed with ads.
Game controls: Use space to use booster. Use mouse to play the game. 

Jane's Hotel Mania

Game description: Serve your customers with great excellence and keep them happy. Watch the symbols closely and excecute the right commands.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. 

Knights

Game description: Make chains of at least three shields in this 'swap to match 3' game. Play through 15 levels and collect all awards or get the high score in free play mode. Power-ups and different level objectives make this a challenging puzzle game.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. 

Beauty Resort 3

Game description: Exotic India is the setting for Heather's next palace of pampering!Click and drag customers around the spa to perform different luxury treatments. Work quickly to keep them happy and you'll be sure to succeed! Don't forget to upgrade your equipment and boost your earning potential!
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. 

Vooz

Game description: Shoot the puff balls and connect 3 or more as they roll along the pathways in this Zuma styled game.
Game controls: This game is played with mouse only. 

Scrambled Legs

Game description: Make a magnificent touch downs and collect power ups along the way to help you.
Game controls: Use arrow keys to move. Z and X to select power ups. Hit Spacebar rapidly to shake tacklers 

Lessons from the Road

VicRoads has developed an online mentoring resource for inexperienced road users and their parents

Victorian registration and licensing authority, VicRoads, has developed a new 'train-the-trainer' online resource for the parents of learner drivers.

Named 'Lessons from the Road', the resource consists of eight videos to provide parents with an insight into training young drivers yet to gain a licence. Information delivered in each of the videos has come from the personal experience of professional driving trainers and parents who have themselves been through the process.

According to VicRoads, training your own kids to drive can be a "daunting experience"; yet many parents frequently find themselves supervising their offspring in a car games — and not always to the satisfaction of either party. That explains the rationale behind Lessons from the Road.

VicRoads is seeking bloggers to get on board and help spread the word concerning Lessons from the Road. The web page can be loaded from here for further information.

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Toyota reveals production RAV4 EV

Developed with assistance from Tesla, electric SUV will go on sale in the US later this year

Toyota's first battery-electric vehicle is set for launch in the US this year, during the northern hemisphere summer.

As we reported at the end of 2010, the electric vehicle in question will be the RAV4 EV, a development project shared between Toyota and electric vehicle specialist, Tesla.

Unveiled at the 26th annual Electric Vehicle Symposium in Los Angeles, the production RAV4 EV boasts a range of 160km between battery charges. Recharging the battery requires six hours, from a 240V/40A outlet. Therein lies a problem. Most American households will not be able to recharge the RAV4 EV from a standard domestic power supply.

Toyota has not explained how private consumers will recharge the battery, but given the high output and the time required for recharging, the RAV4 EV seems like an argument for battery swapping or commercial fast-charging. One of the pictures supplied with the press material clearly shows the car games connected to a non-standard power supply unit on a wall.

Whatever the case may be, the EV version of the RAV4 is a showcase for new technology as much as a commercially viable product. Driven through the front wheels only, unlike the petrol version, the EV develops 115kW of power. In its sport mode, it will reach a maximum speed of 160km/h, passing 100km/h around seven seconds from a standing start. Left in normal mode the vehicle is limited to 135km/h and will reach 96.6km/h (60MPH) in 8.6 seconds.

Leaving the EV front-drive only allows for the battery pack to be mounted low and in between front and rear axles, according to Toyota. The manufacturer has tweaked the RAV4 EV's body for improved aerodynamics — 0.30Cd — which sets a new record for any SUV, Toyota claims. Front bumper, upper and lower grille, side mirrors, rear spoiler and under body design have all been revised for the EV application.

Toyota and Tesla joined forces to develop the RAV4 EV in 22 months, with Tesla providing the battery pack and drivetrain components. The impetus to develop the electric RAV came from Toyota's own CEO, Akio Toyoda.

"The all-new RAV4 EV marries the efficiency of an EV with the versatility of a small SUV - in fact, it is the only all-electric SUV on the market," said Bob Carter, group vice president and general manager of Toyota in the United States.

"We believe that the RAV4 EV will attract sophisticated early technology adopters, much like the first-generation Prius. It's designed for consumers who prioritise the environment and appreciate performance."

The RAV4 EV will be built by Toyota at the company's Canadian production plant based in Woodstock, Ontario.

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Sound engineering from Ford

Sonic' youth provide the Blue Oval's ergonomic experts with audio feedback
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Ford has come to recognise that in-car tones must move with the times. The company's engineers have turned to Generation Y for a clearer idea of what works and what doesn't when it comes to keeping the driver informed audibly.

Research work in the United States into the science of sound shows certain types of alerts work better in certain situations and that sound frequencies and rhythms play an important role in the driver responding appropriately.

According to the research, any in-car alerts and sounds must also appeal to drivers of different ages in the various Ford markets across the globe.

"Ford engineers spend a tremendous amount of time finding just the right sound for just the right situation to help customers react to potential dangers," said Paul Mascarenas, Ford Vice President of Engineering, Global Product Development.

"We also listen to our customers so they listen to the car when needed, we don't want them to be annoyed and tune out important warnings."

It seems the car manufacturer had fun with the research, getting into tasks like Foley sound design for a film.  The company has workshopped a wide array of sounds such as a golf ball rattling into a cup, bird and insect noises and youthful club music like the "Youth Scratch" sound created in the likeness of a DJ scratching a vinyl record. Many of these experimental sounds do not make the final cut.

Some sounds that were considered but not adopted, such as the sound that mimicked the chirping of crickets, were too literal to be effective.

Other sounds that do well in consumer preference testing do not meet the standard for eliciting the proper driver response, such as the soft, electronic beat sound "Techno01", similar to club music around the world. "Techno01" did well in the subjective studies but was not audible enough to cut through the car's background sounds.

Others couldn't overcome a generational divide, such as the "Youth Scratch" sound so loved by Generation Y. Ford discovered that it appealed to younger drivers, but not to older drivers.

Finding the right universal sound that works for all drivers is a challenging objective and one that transcends geographic boundaries.

"Ford has an extensive process for developing sounds just as a conductor brings together different instruments to make a single sound," said Alex Petniunas, technical expert for Sound Quality.

"But the goal of our sounds is not to entertain you; it's to help make sure you respond quickly to the driving environment that can change instantly."

Because sensory perception and preferences vary around the globe, Ford also tests some sounds in different regions to develop uniform cues that work in specific consumer markets.

For example, 24 sound options were tested for a new global turn signal chime for Europe, North America, South America and Asia.

"There are both creative and technical elements in fine-tuning our sounds to get them exactly right," said Petniunas. "A key objective is identifying the kinds of warnings drivers will find both more effective and easier to understand so that safety features are used correctly and more frequently."

A team of Ford engineers spend their days dreaming up sounds and subjecting them to a battery of tests to determine which warnings help drivers best react to possible dangers and work in harmony with other sounds in the vehicle.

In developing its safety sound cues, Ford relies on principles of music theory, mathematical analysis and psychoacoustics (the study of sound perception) to research properties such as pleasantness, loudness and sharpness.

As a musical composer might select from different types of sound to cast a specific mood, Ford sound technicians choose from a palette of psychoacoustic parameters to create the ideal acoustical and vibrational environment.

Ford included the following automotive systems into the acoustic design research:

BLIS (Blind Spot Information System): with cross-traffic alert: Identifies when a vehicle enters the defined blind spot zone and illuminates an indicator light on the corresponding exterior rear view mirror, providing a warning that a vehicle is approaching. An audible alert is sounded as well.

Collision warning with brake support: This technology is designed to help drivers avoid rear-end collisions. Using long-range radar hidden in the front of the vehicle, collision warning detects moving vehicles ahead and alerts the driver of a collision risk with an alarm and warning light.

MyKey: Allows parents to limit vehicle's top speed and radio volume to encourage teens to drive safer and improve fuel efficiency. The audio controls are important to maintaining a volume level that ensures drivers can hear outside warnings, such as emergency response vehicles and traffic hazard signals. It also encourages seat belt use, provides earlier low-fuel warnings and can be programmed to sound chimes at 72km/h (45mph), 88.5 km/h (55 mph) or 105 km/h (65 mph).

Belt-Minder: Seat belt reminder technology for the front occupants takes over after the initial seat belt reminder stops chiming. If the occupants remain unbuckled, the system chimes and flashes a warning lamp periodically for five minutes, or until the driver buckles up, whichever comes first.

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Last HRT 05 Brock V8 for sale

It was the last V8 Supercar prepared by HRT to wear the famous number 05 -- and it's now up for grabs
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One of Australia's most iconic V8 Supercars is on sale. Factory-prepped by HRT for Peter Brock's final drive at Bathurst, the VY Commodore is in original condition and still wear's Brock's famous number '05'.

A genuine collector's item, the 05 VY Commodore was the first car built by HRT (Holden Racing Team) under the 'project blueprint' program and was first campaigned in mid-2003 by Todd Kelly for round seven at Queensland Raceway. Kelly, partnered by Mark Skaife, also entered the car at Bathurst that year.

Kelly remained in the car throughout the rest of the 2003 season and for much of the following year, until the endurance races at Sandown and Bathurst. For those two events the car was crewed by Brock and well-known BTCC driver (and 5th Gear presenter), Jason Plato.

"The car is in original condition, it's been freshened up with a new paint job, but this is the genuine item and comes with the original log book," said current owner Al D'Alberto.

"It's the last 05 HRT Commodore, there hasn't been one since."

The car went on to be raced in the 2005 V8 Supercar Championship Series by Rick Kelly, before being steered in 2006 by Tony D'Alberto in the Fujitsu Series.

"The car looks fantastic and no doubt holds plenty of memories and stories for HRT and Peter Brock fans," said D'Alberto.

Brock died in 2006 during a tarmac rally in Western Australia. To this day, he is yet to be overtaken for the number of wins 'at the mountain'.

To find out more about the car and obtain relevant details to its sale, genuine enquirers are invited to contact Al D'Alberto at ald@bellmont.com.au.

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Carsales' brand new car competition

Win $5000 cash towards your new-car purchase

The Carsales Network is offering new-car buyers a chance to score big during the next three months. Buy a new car through a participating dealer and you'll go into the draw for a $5000 cash prize.

The competition runs from November 4 to February 5, 2011, and is open to anyone making an enquiry through the Carsales Network and following through with a sale at the dealership.

So if you want to cover the cost of driving your car out of the showroom and then some, here's your chance. Competition terms and conditions can be read at: www.carsales.com.au/brandnewcarcomp.

Porsche unleashes Cayman R

Stuttgart sports car games specialist conjures up a ripped and stripped Cayman that all but matches the entry-level 911
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Porsche is currently in the midst of a model derivative frenzy. At the recent Paris motor show it gave us the 911 GTS and Speedster, and it's now busted out the hardcore Cayman R at the Los Angeles motor show.

Rumours that such a model was in the works have been circulating for some time, but most had speculated it would wear 'Club Sport' badges -- a moniker previously used on the likes of the 928 and 968.

The Cayman R is a stripper in the true sense of the word as Porsche has ditched the air-con and stereo, and fitted lightweight 19in alloy wheels (as featured on the Boxster Spyder), carbonfibre sports bucket seats and lighter interior door panels (a la 911 GT3 RS) to pare 55kg from its kerb weight.

Porsche's boffins have also tweaked the Cayman S's 3.4-litre flat-six to eke out an additional 8kW for a total of 243kW. However, peak torque remains unchanged at 370Nm.

The extra oomph and reduced weight of the Cayman R enables it to sprint to 100km/h in 5.0sec with the six-speed manual gearbox (two-tenths quicker than the S), while top speed is up to 282km/h -- five-kays quicker than the stocker.

Choosing the PDK (dual-clutch sequential) version further sharpens performance, and it knocks off the 0-100km/h split in a 911-threatening 4.7sec.

The car's dynamic abilities are boosted by a standard limited-slip differential and sports suspension that drops the car 20mm closer to the deck. The car's fuel tank has shrunk slightly to 54 litres.

Meanwhile, the aero/visual-enhancing 'Cayman Aerokit' brings a fixed rear spoiler in a contrasting colour, black-framed halogen headlights, contrasting side mirrors and Porsche side stripe decals. Also exclusive to the R will be the Peridot metallic paint adorning the LA show car.

The Cayman R launches internationally in early-2011, and we should receive it shortly after, priced around $10k higher than the Cayman S.

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Subaru Impreza design study breaks cover

Unveiled at the LA Auto Show, the latest concept car from Subaru previews the next generation Impreza's overall style and new technologies
discount new cars  » Get the best price on a new Subaru The covers have come off the Subaru Impreza Design Concept at the 2010 LA Auto Show. As we anticipated in our earlier report, the concept is a four-door prototype providing a sneak peak of how the next generation Impreza will take shape.

Subaru says the new Impreza concept was "Designed to show a possible direction for future Impreza models," and hinted at a number of new technologies that will feature in the new next gen Impreza range.

On top of the tight, muscular, and somewhat angular styling, which the car maker calls a "simple and clean" style, the Subaru Impreza Design Concept boasts a new driver assistance safety system, dubbed EyeSight.

Like similar systems available in high-end prestige cars, EyeSight makes use of a stereo camera to monitor traffic in front of the vehicle, and though details are sparse it's expected the "collision avoidance technology" will apply brakes and/or turn the steering wheel to help avoid a crash.

The concept car also makes use of side rearview cameras instead of traditional wing mirrors.

The interior of the concept car has also been given the futuristic treatment, with touch pad technology making its debut on a Subaru. "Touch panels are used on the sporty D-shaped steering wheel too, allowing intuitive access to applications," reads the Subaru press statement.

Power for the Impreza concept comes from "a next generation horizontally opposed Boxer engine, with improved environmental performance". Direct-injection technology is most likely for Subaru's new boxer engines, and in this instance the concept is hooked up to a Lineartronic continuously variable transmission, or CVT, which may suggest the Japanese car maker is looking at replacing all automatic gearboxes with CVTs.

Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: "We're very excited by the new style direction hinted at in this concept.

"At the same time FHI has underscored its future commitment to Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive plus new generation Boxer engines and transmissions.

"Combined with the fantastic style and quality of the cabin too, we’re looking forward to seeing some of these themes become reality," added Senior.

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Kia Optima Hybrid revealed in LA

High-tech green sedan takes a bow ahead of its release to the US market in 2011
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Kia has revealed a hybrid variant of its new Optima sedan at this year's Los Angeles Auto Show. The unveiling presented the company with an opportunity to showcase its newly developed full-parallel hybrid system.

Kia claims the system delivers a class-leading fuel economy figure of 5.8L/100km on the combined cycle, a 40.7 per cent improvement over the conventionally-powered variant. At the same time, Optima Hybrid achieves petrol sedan-like performance with the 0-100km/h sprint managed in just 9.2 seconds and a top speed of 195km/h.

Kia says the impressive figures are the result of its "ingenious, simple and cost-effective" parallel hybrid system. A 2.4-litre four-cylinder (154kW/265Nm) petrol engine is mated to a small (30kW/205Nm) Interior Permanent Magnet synchronous electric motor driving the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission.

In lieu of a traditional torque converter, Kia has employed an electric motor, high-efficiency oil pump and laminated-type wet clutch that allows the petrol engine to be de-coupled from the powertrain so as to allow full electric operation.

Described by Kia engineers as a Transmission-Mounted-Electric-Drive (TMED), the electric motor sits within the car's extended transmission casing (between the petrol engine and the automatic gearbox) and is the world's first oil-cooled system. The system's configuration also does away with the high-capacity electric motor and generator found in many hybrid systems, saving both weight and cost.

The electric motor switches into hybrid operation and serves as both a secondary engine (during full acceleration and hill-climbing) and a generator to recharge the battery pack as necessary.  Whenever the car comes to a stop for more than a few seconds, the engine automatically shuts off to completely eliminate emissions. Optima Hybrid can effectively operate in all-electric mode from rest to 100km/h, producing zero emissions.

"The new Optima Hybrid features a unique architecture and is packed with innovative technologies that demonstrate Kia's on-going commitment to investing in R&D, and to developing environmentally friendly vehicles for the future," explained Vice-Chairman of Kia Motors Corporation, Mr Hyoung-Keun Lee.

"Although these new technologies presented our engineers with a series of complex challenges to overcome, the resulting Optima Hybrid delivers a fully automatic, seamless and enjoyable drive, together with real-world benefits for our customers."

Powering Kia's electric motor is a boot-mounted lithium polymer battery pack developed in partnership with LG Chem.  The pack provides an optimum balance between power delivery, energy density and thermal stability, and compared with nickel-metal hydride batteries is 10 per cent more efficient, weighs as much as 30 per cent less and occupies up to 40 per cent less volume. Kia says the 43.6kg battery pack will not require replacement during the vehicle's lifespan which is at least 10 years and 250,000 kilometres.

The complete hybrid system is controlled by the Optima's Hybrid Control Unit (HCU) which integrates the function of engine, transmission, battery pack and voltage converter. The HCU also gives Optima Hybrid a fail-safe back-up capability and "limp-home" mode. All the HCU's functions are displayed on the car's instrument panel.

Further improving the car's petrol engine efficiency, Kia has modified its 2.4-litre Theta II engine to operate on an Atkinson cycle, raising the compression ratio by 20 per cent and reducing fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Although altering the engine in such a way does reduce its torque, this is more than compensated for by input from the electric motor.

The all-new Kia Optima Hybrid will go on sale in the US early next year but is not yet slated for Australian release, Kia's local representatives saying it's under consideration.

"It is certainly something we are considering closely as we move forward with Kia's increasing exposure to alternate fuel technology," said Kia Motors Australia Chief Operating Officer, Tony Barlow.

"This is the sort of well-considered and developed technology that is now a cornerstone of Kia's expanding model range."

The petrol-powered Kia Optima will go on sale in Australia from January.

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More Indian Suzukis Down Under

Home market demand may be the factor that decides whether more Indian-built Suzukis come Down Under
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The strength of the burgeoning Indian new car games market could be a key factor that decides whether more Maruti-built Suzukis come Down Under. With the Indian home market set to finish the 2010 calendar year at close to double the growth rate initially estimated by Maruti-Suzuki in 2009 (around 30 per cent YOY) demand for production capacity is at a premium.

Maruti-Suzuki builds Alto for Australia and over 110 other markets worldwide. Its production portfolio includes Swift and SX4 as well a version of the Euro-focussed Splash. In 2012 it will add a new compact MPV to its production lines (see separate story).

But local demand for all of the established models and the expected take up of the new MPV and other updated models is so strong the company may put off plans to increase its export variants.

Last year Maruti-Suzuki exported around 147,000 cars. This year of that number is expected to increase only marginally to around 150,000. This is less than15 per cent of total projected 2010 production of over 1.0m cars.

By 2015 Maruti-Suzuki expects to build around 1.75m cars per annum. This figure is not, however, expected to match the growth in demand for its products as the Indian market is projected to soar to close to 5.0m vehicles.

Suzuki Australia chief Tak Hayasaki told the Carsales Network that the factors behind the decisions from where to source various new and existing models were complex. He stated that assuming sourcing from Maruti-Suzuki was a given because of lower production costs was "too simplistic".

"Alto is only built in India so that decision is simple, but where future models may come from, that is a harder decision," Hayasaki explained.

"Though there may be some production cost advantages, the cost of freight from India is higher and the time taken and flexibility [of shipping timetables] is also a consideration. And Indian domestic demand may also be problematic for export growth."

Hayasaki said that though Maruti-Suzuki could produce a version of Splash suitable for developed markets like Australia, demand from the Indian market may sway the decision.

This sentiment was backed up by Maruti-Suzuki international region sales and marketing exec, Rajesh Singh.

"We may be told [by Suzuki head office] to concentrate on our domestic market rather than work to increase exports. In the case of Ritz [the Indian market name for Splash], it might be that another plant would benefit from the volume [Australia might generate]. The demand from Europe is down so Magyar [Hungary] could be tasked to build them," Singh said.

Suzuki will commission a new production facility in Thailand in 2012. The Australian-Thai free trade agreement could complicate the issue of sourcing further, Hayasaki says.

"It might even come down to exchange rate. That could be the deciding factor," he said.

In the meantime local Suzuki boss Hayasaki says that his brand will increase Alto sales in 2011. He believes that annual sales of around 6000 units can rise to closer to five figures next year.

"There is strong activity in the [sub-light] segment from a growing number of manufacturers. We believe this [activity] is good for Alto. Suzuki is still a brand that people are getting to know in Australia."

And suggests Hayasaki, Indian-sourced vehicles could get a further boost from an unexpected sector -- Aussie farmers.

Following in the wheel tracks of their Kiwi equivalents, local farmers could soon be driving Sierra-based Maruti-Suzuki Gypsys on the land. Though not able to be complied for onroad use, the lightweight and capable turbodiesel four-wheel drives could be sold Down Under to take on side-by-side heavy duty ATVs from manufacturers like John Deere and Polaris.

Hayasaki says the company is currently exploring options to add the vehicle in both ute and wagon versions as a non-ADR 'industrial' model. Suzuki New Zealand has already imported a small number of the vehicles, he stated.

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New X3, same price

BMW announces local pricing for its all-new mid-size SUV
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Ahead of its local launch in March, BMW Australia has today announced local pricing for its all-new X3 medium SUV.

With a starting price identical to the outgoing model, BMW has ensured the new X3 remains a strong value proposition for family buyers, despite substantial technology, design and performance improvements.

Available with diesel and petrol power, the all-new second generation X3 starts at $62,200 for the entry-level X3 xDrive20d, the list price equally that of its predecessor.

The X3 xDrive20d is powered by a 135kW/380Nm four-cylinder turbodiesel engine boasting fuel economy returns of 5.6L/100km and CO2 emissions of just 147g/km. Despite these frugal statistics, the base model X3 offers impressive acceleration figures, managing the 0-100km/h sprint in just 8.5 seconds.

Joining the turbodiesel offering, a six-cylinder petrol-powered model is also available from launch, the X3 xDrive28i priced from $71,900.

Introducing a 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine to the range, the X3 xDrive28i develops an output of 190kW/310Nm for a 0-100km/h time of 6.9 seconds. The combined fuel consumption tally is 9.0L/100km while CO2 emissions are 210g/km.

A third, more powerful diesel option will be available mid-year, the $74,990 X3 xDrive30d. Despite offering $10,000 of additional value, the top-spec diesel model is actually $2500 cheaper than the outgoing model.

Featuring a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbodiesel engine, the flagship X3 equals its petrol-powered sibling with 190kW but offers a brawny 560Nm of torque. The X3 XDrive30d also outperforms its petrol counterpart, hitting 100km/h in just 6.2 seconds. Fuel consumption remains impressive at 6.0L/100km.

Among a generous standard equipment list, all new X3 models feature a rear view camera with high resolution 6.5-inch colour monitor, USB audio interface, Bluetooth connectivity, keyless start and new eight-speed automatic transmission.

Servotronic electric power steering makes parking easy while also saving fuel, and for added practicality, the rear seat can be split 40:20:40 as required. BMW says the new X3's load space is the largest in its class at 550-litres. With all seats flipped down, this area expands to a capacious 1600-litres.

The braked towing capacity of the new BMW X3 is 2000kg.

X3 xDrive28i models gain 18-inch alloy wheels and electric seat adjustment (with memory function), whilst the X3 xDrive30d adds an X-Line styling package and automatic tailgate operation.

Optional packages include a 'Performance Control' system for improved agility when cornering and 'Dynamic Damper Control' for improved ride quality over varying road surfaces.

Additionally, 'Variable Sports Steering' reduces the degree of steering wheel movement required to further enhance response and agility.

As part of BMW's EfficientDynamics programme, automatic stop-start, brake energy generation and the aforementioned electronic power steering help trim fuel consumption to achieve best-in-class results.

A comprehensive array of BMW ConnectedDrive technologies complement X3's versatility with internet access available for the first time. The system operates through compatible mobile phones and is transferred to the vehicle's iDrive system via Bluetooth.

"The new BMW X3 combines performance, elegance and practicality all in equal measure making it an especially relevant vehicle for the Australian market,” said BMW Group Australia Acting Managing Director, Peter Buchauer. "In essence, it is the ultimate all-rounder.”

More information on the new BMW X3 can be found at our launch review by clicking on this link.

BMW X3 Australian pricing:

X3 xDrive20d $62,200
X3 xDrive28i $71,900
X3 xDrive30d $74,900


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MPV to be first all-Indian Suzuki

Maruti-Suzuki's first clean-sheet car is a seven-seater... And it could come to Oz
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The first Suzuki designed, styled and engineered in India could be on international roads, including Australia within three years.

Displayed in concept form at the 2010 Delhi autoshow last January, the R3 is a three-row, five-door MPV that will go on sale in India in early 2012. To be available in both petrol and turbodiesel versions, it is expected to quickly become one of Maruti-Suzuki's top-selling domestic models.

Maruti currently builds a range of Suzuki-designed and engineered products at its two plants near Delhi. This year the company will build more than one million cars including all Australian market Altos. It dominates the Indian domestic marketplace with nearly 50 per cent share.

The R3 will be Maruti's first ground-up car. Though engineered primarily for India and other developing markets (both left and right-hand drive), Maruti sources say the vehicle could be upgraded to suit developed markets such as Australia and Europe "within a year or so" of its on sale date in India.

Re-engineering would need to include the incorporation of full safety equipment and driver aids such as curtain airbags and stability control. The initial tranche of development on the car is largely completed without the necessary work to comply the car for high-spec markets.

Maruti will not market the car under the R3 badge. The company's sales and marketing execs say, however, that the official name has yet to be decided.

The vehicle will be powered by the choice of a four-cylinder 1.2-litre variant of the K Series petrol triple that currently powers the Alto. The most popular version in India, however, will use the same 55kW/190Nm 1.3-litre DDiS turbodiesel engine that dominates Swift sales volume in Maruti's home market.

Both engines will be matched to a manual transmission for domestic consumption.

"Engineering the car from scratch for the full world market would add to our cost in the Indian version," Maruti international and export marketing executive Rajesh Singh told the Carsales Network.

The vehicle is not yet on the radar for Suzuki Australia, said local boss, Tak Hayasaki.

"The Peoplemover segment has been a flat market in Australia but there could be some possibility for us [to add the R3]. I really haven't even considered the car for our market yet. But we don't normally say 'no thank you' to new product if we think we can sell the car."

Hayasaki stated that after price the first consideration would be the availability of the car in the correct specification (ie: automatic transmission) and with an appropriate engine package. Currently Maruti-Suzuki does not produce automatic transmissions in India. Like systems such as airbags and stability control modules, the technology is imported.


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Mercedes-Benz B-Class gains V8 firepower

Mischievous Merc trainees create the ultimate one-off B-Class dubbed B55
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We all know the Mercedes-Benz B-Class as a relatively tame, frugal hatchback, but a dramatic transformation by a group of Merc trainees has yielded this radical one-off -- a V8-powered, rear-wheel-drive road rocket that, at least on paper, all but matches a C63 AMG.

The wholesale makeover was car games ried out by 12 second- and third-year trainees specialising in production mechanics and 'automotive mechatronics'. Their brief was to carry out the conversion in such a way that the B55 would still be suited to day-to-day driving and not look dramatically different from the stocker.

The 'victim' was a B200 CDI that been delegated to the training workshop for learning purposes. The powerplant it was to receive was Merc's recently superseded 5.5-litre V8, which cranks out 285kW and 530Nm.

The V8 thumper and its original engine mounts were transplanted along with a seven-speed automatic transmission and engine control unit -- but reprogramming the latter for its new application apparently provided major headaches.

The exhaust system -- a twin-pipe system that protrudes from just below the centre of the rear bumper -- is a combination of various replacement parts, and it allegedly emits a beefy burble far removed from the weedy note of the ejected diesel motor.

More mixing-and-matching was required in the drivetrain as the rear axle comes from an older W210 series E-Class and is housed within a custom-made subframe. Elegantly concealed within the sandwich floor, the propshaft of the E-class fit into the B-Class with no further modifications.

The team also struck gold in the replacement parts catalogue for the braking system, this time in the C32 AMG listing. Perforated and internally ventilated discs (345mm at the front and 300mm at the rear) were slotted in, boosting stopping power to offset the V8's grunt.

The brutal B rides on five-spoke 18-inch AMG sports wheels shod with 235/40 ZR 18 rubber at the front and 255/35 ZR 18 at the rear, providing a much larger footprint than the skinny hoops worn by the donor B200 CDI. The coil-over suspension was provided by K&W.

Other mods include a leather/Alcantara-trimmed interior and custom white paint job with dark-painted radiator louvres and smoked headlamp lenses.

With a kerb weight of 1620kg (around 180kg more than the donor car), its makers estimate the B55 should be able to knock off the 0-100km/h dash in well under six seconds.

Diesel Territory busted

We've got the good oil on Ford's new Territory, this time sans cammo
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Only weeks after Ford's computer generated image hit the net an eagle-eyed Carsales Network reader has spotted Ford's new diesel-powered Territory out in the open.

Parked in a shopping centre car park in Inverloch, the revised 2011 Ford Territory is seen without camouflage showing a kinetic influenced front end housing, you guessed it, an intercooler for the Blue Oval's new turbodiesel powerplant.

According to our sleuthy snapper, the SUV is a Territory TS AWD Diesel and appears to be all but ready to hit the road. The tailgate badging had black tape over what is assumed to be the diesel badge which was adhered beneath the 'Territory' lettering.

Due in showrooms within the first half of this year, the remodelled Territory sports a new bonnet, front guards, bumper, headlamps and taillamps. Otherwise the body is mostly unchanged.

Inside too, changes are said to mimic the interior found in FG series Falcons though unfortunately for our snapper, the dash and console were covered.

But the big change comes under the bonnet. The Territory finally lands a much-needed turbodiesel engine, bringing with it fuel economy gains the likes of which Ford's 4.0-litre six-cylinder petrol could not hope to achieve.

The engine is a JLR-sourced 2.7-litre V6 as-fitted to the Land Rover Discovery 4. In that car, the unit produces 140kW and 440Nm; figures certain to ensure ample performance (the Disco managing the 0-100km/h jaunt in 12.7 seconds).

In Discovery the six-cylinder turbodiesel utilises a 24-valve arrangement with high-pressure common-rail fuel supply, direct injection and variable nozzle turbocharger with intercooler. At this point there is no word on just how much of this technology Ford has altered.

Fuel economy figures are estimated to run somewhere in the vicinity of 10.0L/100km combined with highway mileage dropping to mid 8s.

Pricing and full specifications will be announced closer to the launch.

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Volvo plots XC30 baby SUV

Compact crossover a key part of new company boss Stefan Jacoby's product proliferation plans
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Volvo is developing an entry-level XC30 crossover to slot into its line-up below the XC90 and XC60 (pictured), according to UK's Autocar magazine.

The new model addition is reportedly part of a product diversification plan laid out by recently installed company boss Stefan Jacoby, and it will be pitched primarily at the European market.

Autocar suggests the new model may also be built in China, as Volvo is now under the ownership of Geely.

The British publication reports the XC30 will launch in 2013, taking the fight to the likes of the BMW X1 and Audi Q3. Autocar also lists among its potential rivals a new baby off-roader being developed by Mercedes-Benz (which may be badged GLC).

There will be economies of scale at work, as the junior Volvo SUV will be based on an all-wheel-drive version of the P1 platform that underpins the current C30 hatchback.

The XC30 will target a more youthful audience than its existing demographic and company execs are reportedly hopeful it will replicate the profitability of the XC60, Volvo's number one seller both globally and in Australia.

The vehicle's styling is tipped to be "in the mould of the XC60, but with added visual dynamism and a class-leading interior". It will measure a compact 4350mm in length, meaning it will be around 280mm shorter than the XC60.

According to Autocar, there will be a standard-wheelbase model for the Euro market, but it may be supplemented by a stretched version for China and potentially the US. Volkswagen does likewise with the Tiguan, which is lengthened for the Chinese market.

At face value, the addition of another crossover model makes a lot of sense for Volvo. Of the 4332 vehicles it shifted in Australia until the end of November last year, 2910 sales were accounted for by the XC60, XC70 and XC90.

Given the burgeoning volumes generated by the compact SUV segment (101,480 Australian sales until the end of November last year), the XC30 will provide a much-needed boost for Volvo.

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Ford Focus Electric unveiled

Focus sharpens on LEAF, i-MiEV as Ford's new all-electric model brings quicker charge times and improved range to EV market
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Ford has today unveiled its new all-electric Focus. Following our news article last week, we can reveal that the new variant utilises a 23kWh liquid cooled lithium-ion battery pack to achieve a range of up to 160 kilometres. The battery pack was developed in conjunction with LG Chem and uses heated and cooled liquid to extend battery life. According to Ford, thermal management of lithium-ion batteries is critical to the long term success of EVs, and helps improve charge times.

Differentiating itself from most comers to the electric market, Focus Electric boasts a 3-4 hour recharge time when connected to a 240v domestic outlet. That time is some 2-4 hours better than current market offerings.

Focus Electric is charged via a fender-mounted port surrounded by an illuminated light ring. Lit in quadrants, the ring acknowledges a proper charging connection and when flashing represents charging is in progress. A solid lit ring signifies charge completion. If something is awry, the entire ring flashes intermittently.

Achieving a top speed of 135km/h Focus Electric features a version of Ford's MyTouch system with an interface especially designed for the electric vehicle. Among other functions, the interface includes a screen that displays an increasing number of butterflies as the car games  is driven more efficiently, much like the 'tree' display on Nissan's LEAF.

Further, the vehicle's control system can also be accessed remotely via the owner's smart phone through a system Ford calls MyFord Mobile. The application allows owners to set charging times to make the most of off-peak power rates and remotely unlock the doors, to name a few.

The Ford Focus Electric will be available in the US from November this year with pricing and full specifications to be announced closer to that time. Local availability is yet to be confirmed.

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Leaked images: Mercedes C-Class coupe

Merc's stylish new coupe caught with its pants down... or is it all part of a calculated ploy?
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The public unveiling of Mercedes-Benz's new C-Class coupe is still two months away (it's due to debut at March's Geneva motor show), but these images of the suave two-door have found their way -- apparently prematurely -- onto the internet.

The coupe will take its bows at Geneva alongside the updated C-Class sedan and wagon, which we first showed you in prototype form last March.

Effectively the replacement for the defunct CLK that was discontinued almost 12 months ago, the C-Class coupe will slot in below the existing E-Class coupe.

With the imminent arrival of the C-Class coupe the end of the road is nigh for the CLC, which is now distinctly long in the tooth.

The brochure images of the new C-Class coupe reveal an elegantly proportioned package with a fastback-esque roofline. Although it borrows much of its design language from its sedan sibling, the coupe has a far more wedge-like stance

Our preliminary impression is that the two-door C-Class is a more attractive proposition than the E-Class coupe and, at face value, it should give the Audi A5 and BMW 3 Series coupe a few headaches.

As per the updated C-Class sedan range, its cabin features a new instrument binnacle as used in the larger E-class, and there's also a redesigned steering wheel, updated switchgear and better quality trim than in the outgoing C.

There are no specs or tech details available as yet, but the C-Class coupe is likely to feature identical powertrains to the sedan range, including a new 3.5-litre V6 direct-injection petrol unit with 225kW and 370Nm. A seven-speed automatic transmission will be standard across the line-up.

More exciting still is the prospect of a C63 AMG variant, which would square up against the BMW M3 and Audi RS5. Also an eventual possibility is a hardcore Black Series variant.

The list of available features in the C-Class coupe is likely to include Attention Assist, radar-controlled Distronic Plus cruise control and automatic Pre-Safe brakes.

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Fastest ever Ferrari lands in Oz

Ferrari 599 GTO brings the ultimate in performance and exclusivity Down Under
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The fastest ever road car yet produced by Italy's legendary supercar company has arrived in Australia. The Ferrari 599 GTO lands this month in extremely limited numbers with just ten vehicles allocated to the Australian and New Zealand markets.

"The Ferrari 599 GTO represents the pinnacle of Ferrari road cars in every area," says Ferrari Australia's General Manager, Kevin Wall.

"The bald performance figures, amazing although they are, do not do justice to the remarkable breadth of abilities that it offers. These range from being able to provide a true racing car driving experience on the track, through being the ultimate road going ultra supercar to having the comfort and luggage space that quite simply would not be expected in a car of this performance level.

"In short, only Ferrari could provide a car with the breadth and depth of ability with which the 599 GTO has been endowed, using Formula One technology and design that has then been honed to perfection in the unique FXX programme. The 599 GTO is the new definition of the ultimate road car and the ten Australian owners are able to look for to a truly unique driving experience at every level."

Recalling many design cues from the 599XX, the 599 GTO is capable of sprinting from rest to 100km/h in just 3.35 seconds. The exclusive machine having also earned the illustrious honour of lapping Ferrari's famed Fiorano test track faster than any other road going Ferrari in history, an impressive 1'24". Top speed is claimed to be in excess of 335km/h.

An innovative and thoroughly communicative chassis is said to push the car's electronic controls to the very limit. The driver-car interface sees Ferrari's Virtual Race Engineer (VRE) system provide instantaneous information on the vehicle's performance.

Additionally, the 599 GTO boasts new aerodynamic innovations, such as the wheel doughnuts which increase aerodynamic efficiency as well as improve brake cooling, and a different tyre set-up with wider front tyres for greater roadholding.

Braking comes compliments of Ferrari's latest, second-generation carbon-ceramic brakes, which are lighter and offer better performance.

The driver-car interface is also new with the adoption of the Virtual Race Engineer (VRE), which provides the driver with instantaneous information on performance.

Nearing a seven figure price tag the Ferrari 599 GTO would seem to be out of the reach of most. But even at this end of the fiduciary spectrum, Ferrari Australia tells us all ten are accounted for.

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VFACTS for January: Queensland floods dampen new-car demand

Sales slackened slightly last month, as Queenslanders turned their attention to disaster recovery

New-car sales fell back by 1.7 per cent last month, in the aftermath of massive floods in South East Queensland.

Compared with the figure for the same month last year, sales of 73,584 in January represented a 1280 shortfall. Yet the peak body for the industry, the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries, has greeted the result with enthusiasm.

FCAI Chief Executive Andrew McKellar described the January result as "robust" and "a good start to 2011".

"It is encouraging to see that private buyers remained confident throughout January with sales to those customers up 13.6 per cent while business purchases declined," he said.

There was no hiding the fact that Queenslanders had a lot on the plate last month. If not for the nearly 2000-unit shortfall in the northern state, January would have been a stronger month nationally than the same month a year earlier. According to the FCAI sales in Queensland were 12.8 per cent lower.

"Obviously new vehicle sales in Queensland have taken a hit as people concentrate on the flood recovery effort," McKellar said.

"We can expect sales in Queensland to be slower in the short-term but will pick up in the months ahead as people begin to look for replacement vehicles."

Times may have been bleak in Queensland last month, but they would have been breaking out the champers at Toyota's head office. For the third consecutive month Corolla snared top spot in the country -- outselling Holden's 15-year champion, the Commodore. For the full year of 2010, Commodore finished 4324 units (45,956) ahead of Corolla (41,632). Last month the small Toyota posted a winning margin of 1400 units, selling 4045 cars versus 2645 of the Commodore.

A margin like that would hand Corolla sales leadership for the full year around July or August, assuming the Commodore doesn't bounce back.

"We supported Corolla strongly with advertising and marketing offers, just as our competitors did with their leading cars," Toyota Australia's senior executive director sales and marketing, David Buttner, was quoted as saying.

"Consumers have responded in such large numbers because Corolla is the right package for Australians of all ages -- stylish, affordable, fuel-efficient and reliable."

It's an indication that Toyota is set for another strong year in 2011, just like the last one... and the one before that... and...

Of the 73,584 vehicles sold in January, 43,539 were passenger cars, 17,032 were SUVs and 11,720 were light commercial vehicles. Passenger cars were just 41 units down on January 2010 and SUVs were actually up 132 units -- although not a single SUV of any kind sold better than four digits. The Prado came closest, selling 988 for the month. But the real damage to the whole market was done in light commercial vehicles: down 1089 sales for the month. Heavy commercials also dropped over 300 units for the month, contributing to the 1280-unit slump.

The top ten car companies as of the end of January are: Toyota (14,817), Holden (8385), Mazda (7200), Ford (6413), Hyundai (6410), Nissan (4876), Mitsubishi (4537), Subaru (3531), Volkswagen (2408) and Honda (2227). Holden, Ford and Honda all dropped back against their January 2010 performances. In Ford's case, not only was it overtaken by Mazda for the month, it sold just three cars more than Hyundai. Honda is in danger of dropping out of the top ten, with Suzuki a little over a hundred units behind for the month -- and Suzuki is not a brand that holds the door open for others. January is a little early in the year to be prognosticating though, with fleet buyers and sales people still holidaying.

The top ten-selling cars for the month were: Toyota Corolla (4045), Mazda3 (3605), Holden Commodore (2645), Toyota Hilux (2491), Hyundai Getz (2167), Holden Cruze (2060), Nissan Navara (1804), Toyota Yaris (1793), Subaru Impreza (1765), Hyundai i30 (1675). Ford's Falcon -- usually a top five contender -- didn't appear among the top ten at all in January, selling just 1157 for the month, fewer than half the number it sold in January 2010. If the Falcon had sold the same numbers as it did this time last year, Ford wouldn't have fallen out of third place among the top ten car companies.

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Porsche back in black, again

Boxster S Porsche's second model to get Black treatment in as many weeks
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Hot on the heels of the release of the Porsche 911 Black Edition comes news from Stuttgart that the drop top Boxster S will receive similar treatment.

Adding more style and substance at no additional cost, the Black Edition adds 7kW/10Nm to Boxster S' 3.4-litre engine output, taking the total to 235kW/370Nm. These figures see the open-top model shave one-tenth of a second off its 0-100km/h sprint for a new time of 5.2 seconds with the standard six-speed manual gearbox, or 5.1 seconds when optioned with Porsche's seven-speed PDK transmission.

Equipment levels are also bolstered with 19-inch black Boxster Spyder alloys, smooth leather finish with Sport Design steering wheel, Bi-Xenon headlamps with dynamic cornering function and auto-dimming mirrors.

Stylistically, Boxster S Black Edition adds an array of all-black design touches including black paintwork and features finished in black, including hood, air intakes, tailpipes, roll-over bars, instrument panel, and gear selector surround.

The special edition is designated by a boot lid-mounted badge, "Black Edition" lettering on the stainless steel sill panels, emobossed insignia on the fabric roof and a badge on the glovebox lid.

Limited to 987 examples (the convertible Porsche's model designation), deliveries of the Porsche Boxster S Black Edition will commence in April.

2011 Porsche Boxster S Black Edition pricing:
- Boxster S Black Edition $132,400 (manual)
- Boxster S Black Edition $137,700 (PDK)

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B-Class bends in a new direction

Big changes in store for the next generation Mercedes B-Class as it approaches its European launch in the second half of the year
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When Mercedes-Benz introduces its next-generation B-Class in Europe some time later this year it will be an animal quite different to the current model.

With a lower profile allowed by the scrapping of the safety-oriented sandwich floor structure, the new B-Class is said to be targeted at a younger demographic.

The Carparazzi spy photos of the next B-class undergoing winter testing show it will present a sleeker shape consistent with its aspirations to be a Volkswagen Golf competitor.

Rumour has it the B-Class will spawn a number of variants including a sedan and a small SUV. A roadster version is also a possibility, indicating a much bigger role for the front-drive model in the lower-rung Benz lineup.

While the spy photos of the hatchback variant show what appears to be a noticeably lower-set B-Class, the second-rung Benz still has a mini MPV look about it with its high bonnet and slightly vertical orientation.

The spy shots show a car  games with minimal attempts at disguise, although Benz has slapped a bit of cladding on the rear end to disguise the shape of the tail lights, rear window and bumper.

The Golf-like C-Pillar only looks that way: In reality it will contain side glass tapering down to give a slightly arched look consistent with larger Benz models. The final product should therefore have less of a slab-sided look. And are those kicked-up crease lines in the rear doors indicative of the real thing?

The bold Benz grille slats could be the real McCoy, or just a quick patch up, but at least they clearly reveal the car’s identity.

Interestingly, Carparazzi says the new front-drive Mercedes will mostly use Renault engines in 1.2, 1.4 and 1.8-litre petrol-fired capacities as well as a 1.6-litre diesel.

The next B-Class is also expected to bring stop/start technology on both manual and auto versions.

Top of the range variants will use a Benz 2.2-litre diesel, says Carparazzi, while other eco-friendly models will follow – including plug-in hybrid (E-Cell Plus), all-electric (E-Cell) and fuel cell (F-Cell) versions.

Transmissions will be either a manual or a dual-clutch automated manual, both with six speeds. The CVT transmission is reportedly due for the chop.

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Benz entry limo beats LCT

Upgraded Mercedes-Benz S-Class range introduces efficient new model that escapes luxury car tax
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An update for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class range adds standard equipment and a introduces a new diesel variant boasting a combined-cycle consumption figure of 7L/100km.

The extra-efficient S 350 -- now badged 'BlueTEC', rather than CDI -- replaces the outgoing version which used 7.7L. The improvement means the entry model S-Class is exempt from the luxury car tax (LCT), which allows a dispensation for luxury vehicles priced over $58K and using 7 litres or less fuel per 100km.

During this week's launch of the updated S-Class range, Mercedes-Benz Australia managing director Horst van Sanden said: "It's fantastic for us to have a vehicle of this size, which matches equivalently-efficient cars.

"It's become a badge of honour for us [luxury car makers] to meet the highest standards of efficiency."

M-B Australia executives admit 'traditional' buyers of the S-Class have not made a connection between diesel and luxury motoring as part of the ownership experience, however he anticipates models like the S 350 BlueTec will encourage a turnaround in buyers' perceptions of diesel luxury cars.

Evidence is a shift in buyer preference for the E-Class which has recently topped 50 per cent of diesel versus petrol purchases.

Mercedes-Benz offers a hybrid version of the S-Class -- the S 400 -- and a 'smaller' entry level diesel model (S 250 CDI) in European markets.

At this stage there is no promise for either models' arrival in Australia due to right-hand-drive only production, however van Sanden said his company "would like to see them here".

Meanwhile Australians are offered the 3.0-litre six-cylinder diesel S 350 BlueTec model, starting at $213,428 (includes GST and LCT if applicable), as the most efficient S-Class. The S 350's engine now produces 190kW/620Nm; up from 173kW/540Nm.

We managed 8.2L/100km over a route including rural and highway miles. Power is on tap and the ample torque moves the S-Class' two-tonne bulk with ease -- brilliant for overtaking duties and polishing off hills.

The S 350 is also impressive in the acceleration stakes and only at idle does it sound like a diesel, having a throaty growl in its upper reaches. The standard-fit seven-speed automatic is responsive if left to its own devices, or the paddle-shift can be used for instantaneous results. The S-Class also has 'switchable' engine/transmission characteristics: our 8.2L result was after most time in 'Sport' mode.

The 2011 update includes blind spot and lane assistance to the standard-fit list rangewide. The lane assistance is unobtrusive and the blind spot system offers visual and audio warning.

Stepping up to the BlueEFFICIENCY petrol version costs $220,650 and includes bigger (19 versus 18-inch) alloys. The petrol 350's combined consumption rating is significantly higher than the BlueTec's at 9L/100km, however M-B Australia claims the model is the most economical petrol-powered luxury car in its segment. Output has been increased for the new year updates; up from 200kW to 225kW, and 350Nm to 370Nm.

At the top end of the scale is the S63, now packing AMG's 5.5-litre biturbo V8. Despite the smaller -- by 747cc -- displacement to the esteemed 6.2-litre V8, the biturbo whips the naturally aspirated version with 400kW and 800Nm.

The 5.5 is also more efficient than the previous V8, using 10.6L/100km. Start/stop is included as standard.

The biturbo V8 is mated to a new seven-speed transmission with wet start-up clutch (a la SL63 and E 63). AMG attributes the engine's efficiency in part to its new Speedshift transmission.

The new engine does not replace the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8 used in the '63' models; rather, it adds another option to AMG's engine lineup, which also includes the biturbo V12 available in the S-Class range. See pricing below.

Visit the Carsales Network again for our drive review of the new S 350 BlueTEC and S 63 AMG.

2011 S-Class pricing (MLP inc LCT (where applicable) and GST)
S 350 BlueTEC $213,428
S 350 BlueEFFICIENCY $220,650
S 350 L BlueEFFICIENCY $238,976
S 500 BlueEFFICIENCY $296,975
S 500 L BlueEFFICIENCY $315,300
S 63 AMG $392,900
S 600 L $412,000
S 65 AMG L $499,200

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Northway Honda opens in Bundoora

New Dealership established to service Melbourne's Honda clientele in the north east

Honda has welcomed a new dealership into the fold. Northway Honda has been located on Plenty Road, in the rapidly growing suburb of Bundoora to provide full dealer servicing, parts and sales to Honda owners and buyers in the outer north east.

Costing $11 million and requiring two years to complete, the facility is built around an innovative design concept integrating the showroom and workshop, with a lift to raise cars from the ground floor to the 'half-moon' display area on the first floor.

"The design was off the page, delivering a roofline which emulates the spoiler of a car, the interior with a glass ceiling fifty metres wide and a hydraulic lift for cars displayed on the second level of the building," explained Martin Luby, General Manager of the dealership.

"That's nothing compared to the ingenious floor plan incorporating two stories of display space, an eleven bay service centre, spare parts centre and pre-owned cars all located around a central hub lounge -- now that's easy!"

Build to accommodate environmental concerns, the 7700-square metre facility boasts a 70,000-litre water tank, oil recycling and double-glazed glass to reduce energy consumption. Up to 60 new and 50 used cars will be housed on the premises at any one time and service customers can watch TV on plasma screens in the VIP lounge while waiting for their cars. In addition, Northway offers customers free Wi-Fi for their personal needs.

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