Garmin Approach S1 – The First Golf GPS Watch

Garmin announced the Approach S1 the first GPS wristwatch designed specially for golf. Basically, the Approach S1 can display precise yardages to the front, back and middle of greens and comes preloaded with 14,000-plus courses.

The S1 comes pre-loaded with 14,000-plus U.S. and Canadian courses. It measure individual shot distances, which is constantly updated based on a golfer’s actual real-time location. This waterproof and rugged golf GPS watch has a ultra-thin backlit display and is equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that lasts up to eight hours in GPS mode and up to three weeks in watch mode. It includes an easy-to-set alarm and automatic time and time zone detection.

Once in golf mode, Approach S1 quickly acquires satellites and displays a list of nearby courses. Once a course is selected, three distances to each hole will always be provided – front, middle and back of the green – with those details being updated automatically and adjusted depending on the angle of approach. During the course of play, Approach S1 displays the hole number and par, and it automatically transitions from one hole to the next. Once golfers begin a round in golf mode, they can easily transition between time of day and distances to green, and they can access the menu to measure the distance of their last shot to improve their game or shore up bragging rights. Acting as a GPS-enabled odometer, Approach S1 helps golfers track the total ground they’ve covered on foot during each round (or even on a walk over lunch) so that they can see the true health benefits of leaving the cart in the clubhouse.-sciencemagnews.com

RIM launches the BlackBerry Bold 9780

Research In Motion introduced the BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone. It is the first BlackBerry Bold smartphone to come with the new BlackBerry 6 operating system. 

The phone features a 2.4-inch, 400-by-360 display. It supports 3G networks around the world, includes Wi-Fi with support for carrier supported Wi-Fi calling (UMA where available) and GPS for location-based applications and geo-tagging. It comes with a 5 MP camera with features including continuous auto focus, scene modes, image stabilization, flash and video recording. The BlackBerry Bold 9780 also includes 512 MB Flash memory and an expandable memory card slot that supports up to 32 GB of additional storage.

The BlackBerry Bold 9780 smartphone will be available from various carriers around the world beginning in November.-moneycontrol.com

Busted: 2011 Toyota Prius MPV Picture is an Older Photoshop

Not that we expect the actual production version of the upcoming 2011 Toyota Prius MPV (or whatever else the Japanese maker names the hybrid minivan) to look any more exciting than the vehicle shown in the black-and-white picture above, but just to set things straight, what you see here is an older photoshop created by Japan's Best Car magazine and not the real deal as some hastily baptized. Proof seekers may follow the jump for color shots from the magazine.

We'll just remind you that Toyota has confirmed that the world premiere of the Prius minivan will take place at the 2011 Detroit motor show in mid-January, with sales to follow either towards the end of the same year or in early 2012. -carscoop.

Fiat Uno Concept Cabrio: 2010 Sao Paulo Auto Show

Italian auto giant Fiat, whose local branch Fiat Automoveis has built an enormous following here over the past 35 years, is bringing several new variations of the recently redesigned Uno minicompact to the 2010 São Paulo Auto Show this week.

Chief among the debutantes are the Uno Concept Cabrio and the Uno Sporting, the latter a new trim level that will be available on the New Uno five-door hatchback.

The Uno Concept Cabrio is an open-top two-passenger two-door. Fiat says the concept is aimed at younger consumers and is "an example of the alternatives that can be generated from the New Uno platform."

It is fitted with a 152-horsepower turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine that can propel the vehicle at speeds up to 124 mph. The chassis has been stiffened and lowered, and the car rides on low-profile 17-inch tires.

The concept gets redesigned bumpers, oversize air intakes, front lip spoiler, LED taillamps and brake lights. The cockpit features a three-spoke steering wheel, two-tone leather seats with quilted stitching and aluminum pedals and trim.

The Uno Sporting has a naturally aspirated 85-hp 1.4 under the hood and sits on a slightly stiffer, lower suspension with 15-inch wheels and tires.

The car receives a few aerodynamic add-ons and some black accents on the outside, with upgraded equipment including a leather-wrapped steering wheel, custom seat fabric and an onboard computer.-insideline.com

Toyota Prius MPV Revealed

The Toyota Prius has been a constant presence in the headlines recently, with the Japanese automaker celebrating a sales milestone for the hybrid hatchback and working on a MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) version. And it's this eco people-carryier that we are going to talk about.
Toyota teased the Prius MPV using a billboard that showed the vehicle, which was hidden by the standard version of the Prius. The company also uploaded photos of the billboard on the Prius Facebook page.

Now, the first image of the Prius MPV has leaked onto the web (this was published on the Autopareri forum - account required). As you can see, the people-moving incarntion of the Prius doesn’t come with major styling changes. In fact, its higher roof line gives it a less interesting appearance.

The Prius MPV should make its world debut in Detroit at next year’s North American International Auto Show. Toyota confirmed that it will introduce a new member of the Prius family at the event. However, the company did not offer a name for the future car, only mentioning that it will offer a higher level of comfort, style and versatility.

Earlier media reports indicate that the Prius MPV will use three rows of seats and be able to accomodate seven passengers. In addition to that, the vehicle might come with an extra battery pack for the current hybrid powertain, which will be stored under its floor. This could mean plans to offer the vehicle as a plug-in.-autoevolution.com

Next generation Buick MPV spotted out will launch before end of year

The next generation of Buick GL8 was recently sighted without camo in downtown Shanghai and shows that the GL8 is very close to production. The GL8 was introduced into China in 2001 and quickly became the industry standard for business use MPV’s within China. As it was popular from the start it only gained two major updates in its life time, although it is rumored that the new generation will launch before the years end.

The new GL8 has borrowed heavily from the Lacrosse and Excelle GT design styling in its front end and rear end, which as per usual have the rear lights dripping with chrome. Engines for the GL8 are expected to be a 3.0L V6 that is taken from the Lacrosse and also the 2.4 four cylinder engine. The 3.0L V6 will be quite the power house with 258bhp on tap thanks to its SIDI engine, also it is rumored that the GL8 will become a mild hybrid thanks to stop and start technology.

The GL8 will have some stiff competition in 2011 from Mercedes who are producing the Viano and Vito in Fujian, and also from FAW-Mazda who are planning to launch the Mazda8 MPV around the same time.-chinacartimes.com

2012 Ford Focus ST

 

GLOBAL REVEAL OF NEW HIGH-PERFORMANCE FORD FOCUS ST AT PARIS SHOW

• Ford delivers on promise to introduce a global performance version of the new Focus: next-generation 250 PS Focus ST previewed at the Paris Motor Show
• Ford’s first global high-performance model, scheduled for 2012 launch and developed by Ford’s global Performance Vehicles team
• Exciting new model will be true to Ford’s ST heritage, with exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design
• Pure performance delivered by unique 250 PS version of new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine
• Over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current European Focus ST, but fuel consumption and CO2 emissions cut by more than 20 per cent
• Lowered chassis and unique suspension tuning to deliver acclaimed ST handling agility and poise
• 5-door ST show car for Paris features dramatic ‘Tangerine Scream’ body colour, reflecting new ST’s exciting and energetic character

The exciting next-generation Ford Focus ST makes its global debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, providing an early preview of the new high-performance model which will be introduced around the world in 2012.

Ford’s first global high performance model and a star attraction for Ford in Paris, the powerful new Focus ST show car was revealed today by Alan Mulally, Ford’s President and CEO, and Stephen Odell, Chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe.

This range-topping Focus will be completely true to Ford’s ST model heritage, offering driving enthusiasts an intoxicating cocktail of exhilarating performance and handling, an addictive sound and muscular sports design.
“The ST will be the performance flagship of our new Focus range, and we are excited to provide our enthusiast customers with an early preview in Paris,” said Gunnar Herrmann, Ford Motor Company’s Global C-car Vehicle Line Director. “The ST represents an ultimate expression of Focus driving quality and performance and we are confident that the new model will strengthen the reputation of Ford’s ST heritage among enthusiast drivers and attract new fans as well.”

Global Performance Model

One common Focus ST model is being developed for all global markets, with the vehicle targeted for launch during 2012. This will be the first time that Ford has produced one of its highly regarded high-performance models for a global audience.

The Focus ST development programme is being undertaken by Ford’s global Performance Vehicles group, which comprises Team RS (Europe) and SVT (USA) engineers, who are dedicated to developing and tuning products like the formidable Focus RS, Shelby GT500 and F-150 SVT Raptor.

For new Focus ST the development is being led by Team RS performance specialists based in Europe, building on their extensive experience in engineering sought-after cars like the previous ST models and legendary RS series.

“The new Focus ST will be our first true global performance vehicle and we are excited about the chance to give many customers worldwide their first taste of Ford’s acclaimed ST heritage,” said Jost Capito, Director of Global Performance Vehicles. “Like the ST and RS models before it, the Focus ST will be the result of painstaking tuning around the curves of the Nürburgring, along high-speed German autobahns, and down classic British B-roads.

“For European drivers, the Focus ST will bring the same distinctive qualities of pure dynamics and performance that have created the unique appeal of our ST heritage.

“For enthusiasts in North America and Asia who have asked why our compact performance models were not available to them – the wait is almost over! The new Focus ST will offer exactly the same exciting driving experience wherever it’s on sale,” added Capito.
More Performance – and More Economy – from Ford EcoBoost Power
At the heart of the appeal of the next-generation Focus ST is a high-output 250 PS derivative of the efficient and advanced new 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost four-cylinder petrol engine.

Succeeding the turbocharged 2.5-litre five-cylinder unit of the current European model, this unique 250 PS Ford EcoBoost engine is being specially developed for the new Focus ST to ensure that the car gets the muscular performance – and the inspirational sound – which it deserves. It also marks the first application of the four-cylinder Ford EcoBoost engine in a high performance model.

Compared to the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost engine used in other Ford vehicles, the 250 PS unit features re-designed intake and exhaust systems and a unique engine calibration to deliver the desired level of power and responsiveness. The engine retains the strong torque delivery which is a feature of Ford EcoBoost designs, with a broad, flat torque curve offering a maximum output of 360 Nm.

One of a completely new generation of downsized, high-efficiency, low-CO2 petrol engines from Ford, the 2.0-litre Ford EcoBoost is a lightweight, all-aluminium design which combines three technologies – high-pressure direct injection, low-inertia turbocharging and twin independent variable cam timing – to create an advanced combustion system which brings new levels of performance and fuel efficiency to petrol engines in this power range.

This ultra efficient 250 PS engine therefore not only delivers over 10 per cent more power and torque than the current 2.5-litre unit, it is also estimated to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by more than 20 per cent.

The standard transmission for the Focus ST is a 6-speed manual gearbox, optimised with more sporting ratios carefully matched to the performance characteristics of the engine.

Genuine Performance and Handling

Ford Team RS performance vehicle specialists have a mission: to ensure that the new Focus ST delivers the pure performance and handling everyone expects from a genuine Ford ST model.

Compared to the standard Focus, the ST model will feature a comprehensive range of enhancements including a chassis lowered by 10mm, a substantially different variable ratio steering system, high performance brakes and unique suspension tuning, that will enable the vehicle to deliver the acclaimed ST handling agility and poise.

Naturally, the ST will also benefit from the performance improvements being delivered by the next-generation Focus vehicle architecture. Features like a stronger, stiffer body structure, optimised front and rear suspension system designs, and a new electric power assisted steering (EPAS) system all contribute to superior vehicle dynamics and improved refinement.

Unprecedented Level of Smart Technologies

Focus ST drivers will also be able to take advantage of the unprecedented level of smart new technologies incorporated in Ford’s latest global C-car platform, including advanced new driver assistance, powertrain, chassis and active safety features.

Many of these features, such as the advanced new Torque Vectoring Control system – which acts like a torque vectoring differential to enhance cornering stability and agility – have a direct impact on improving driving quality to an even higher level.

“This is the third generation Focus ST and we are determined that the new car will continue the strong heritage of affordable, high performance ST models into the future,” said Jost Capito. “The technology on offer with Ford’s new global C-car platform will also help to ensure that the Focus ST provides enthusiasts with an exceptional driving experience.”

Unique High-Performance Exterior

The new Focus ST features a highly distinctive sports exterior, providing significant functional and aerodynamic benefits and clearly differentiating the ST derivative from other models in the new Focus family.

While sharing the already sleek and dynamic profile of the new Focus five-door, the ST features unique front- and rear-end designs, together with muscular extended rocker panels and striking new alloy wheels based on the classic Y-spoke ST pattern.

“The changes we have made to deliver superior aerodynamics and vehicle performance have made the new Focus ST even more sporty and distinctive,” explained Martin Smith, Executive Design Director. “Exciting new design treatments at the front and rear give the ST a much more dynamic and purposeful character, making it very clear that this is definitely a sporting Focus.”

The more sporting design language is particularly evident at the front end, where the twin upper and lower grilles of the standard car are replaced by a prominent new one-piece design.

Representing the sportiest definition yet of Ford’s signature trapezoidal grille, the bold one-piece design is placed higher on the nose of the vehicle, and incorporates a distinctive hexagonal mesh finished in high gloss black.

The front spoiler has a completely new configuration, with a deep central splitter framed by small motorsport-inspired spoiler blades on either side, which sweep round and encompass the fog lamps. The spoiler blades are linked to the rest of the body lines through the grille structure, which is reminiscent of the similar treatment in the current Focus RS model.

The more assertive, sporting character of the front end is completed by details like the gloss black finish to the headlamp bezels, and the bold red ST badge on the one-piece grille.

From the side, muscular extended rocker panels emphasise the lowered chassis, and the bold wheel arches are filled with 19-inch alloy wheels which are the latest evolution of the classic Y-spoke ST wheel.

Dynamic Rear End Treatment

The rear bumper and lower fascia is also completely new, with prominent diffuser-style vents on either side which mirror the form of the front spoiler blades. Rear lamps with a dark smoked tint enhance the sporty feel.

The new Focus ST has a high-performance exhaust system, which exits the vehicle through a central dual-pipe outlet. The exhaust outlet has been given a highly-distinctive design treatment with a strong kinetic form which emulates the design themes on the rest of the car.

The car’s aerodynamic package is completed by a highly effective integrated roof spoiler, which has been optimised to deliver improved high-speed stability and reduced drag. With a larger, more exaggerated design than the spoiler on the current Focus ST, it incorporates ducting to the rear screen and has been carefully integrated with the vehicle tailgate and roof.

Dramatic New Body Colour

The Paris preview car is finished in a dramatic new ‘Tangerine Scream’ body colour, which reflects the exciting and energetic new character of the Focus ST.

A spiritual successor to the signature Electric Orange finish of the current Focus ST, Tangerine Scream is a very intense and vibrant high-saturation metallic yellow-gold tone created using an experimental process with multiple layers of tinted lacquer.

“Such an exciting new car deserves an exciting new finish and we believe that this vibrant new colour will prove just as memorable as Electric Orange,” said Martin Smith. “You can expect to see a very similar shade when the ST reaches the showroom.”

To complement the vibrant exterior colour, the 19-inch alloy wheels have a warm, anodised Golden Graphite finish. Their sophisticated five-spoke design is contrasted by the brake calipers which are brightly painted in body colour.

Bold High-Contrast Sports Cockpit

The performance theme from the exterior is echoed inside the car, with a very bold high-contrast sports cockpit featuring Recaro seats, unique instrumentation and modern, highly technical finishes.

Dramatically-bolstered and rally-inspired Recaro leather and fabric front seats provide an ideal balance between sporting support and long-distance comfort, and form the centrepiece of the cabin.

The seats are finished in high-quality Charcoal Black leather, offset by bold orange gold panels in a neoprene fabric and vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching. The central Charcoal Black fabric seat panels feature a rugged embossed design in the style of a performance tyre tread pattern. The rear Recaro seats are finished in the same distinctive style.

Throughout the cabin, unique details ensure that the Focus ST clearly signals its sporting intent. Three additional gauges for turbo boost, oil pressure and oil temperature are housed in a dedicated binnacle on the upper instrument panel; the instrument cluster features unique ST sports graphics with red needle pointers; and the centre console has a technical carbon-effect finish.

The interior has the signature ST treatment of a dark interior environment, with black headlining, bespoke steering wheel and a gear knob featuring the ST logo, plus metal racing pedals.

The premium sports feel of the cabin is enhanced by a generous use of Charcoal Black leather with vibrant yellow-gold contrast stitching on many of the interior surfaces, including the seats, door panels, central armrest, steering wheel, gearshift gaiter and the top of the instrument binnacle.
“The Focus ST will be a serious driving machine, and we have developed a purposeful exterior combined with a cockpit that blends sporting function with impressive comfort,” said Stephen Odell. “The approach of form following function is a key part of the ST DNA, and we have remained true to that both inside and outside the vehicle.”-carversation.com

Brabus revealed SV12 R Biturbo 800 based on Mercedes S-Class

The Germans at Brabus managed to create a tuning kit for the Mercedes S-Class model, more exactly the S600 version, and they managed to rise the output power to 800 horsepower. Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800 is the name of the newest tuning kit created by the German tuners, a tuning kit that provides better aesthetics and impressive performance worth of a supercar.

Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

The Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800 it’s now the fastest luxury sedan and is able to develop 800 horsepower thanks to the increased stock 5.5-liter engine that now is 6.3-liter and develops 1420 Nm of torque. The interior gets several improvements but also at the exterior benefits from 21-inch rims with 380×35 front and 355×28 rear tires.

Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

The ground clearance was lowered by 15 mm but also 12-piston brakes in the front were mounted together with 6-piston brakes in the rear. The model gets a top speed of 350 km/h, electronically limited indeed, while the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h is achieved in 3.9 seconds.-automotorblog.com

Brabus SV12 R Biturbo 800

Peugeot RCZ Steals The Show

Australian International Motor show attendees and car lovers around Australia have voted with their fingers, SMS-ing Carsguide their votes and naming the new Peugeot RCZ as the “Car of the Show”.

“We couldn’t be more delighted, as it is strong validation that the public believe the RCZ to be as stunning as we do.” says Ken Thomas, General Manager / Director, Peugeot Australia.

The Peugeot RCZ - a sporty and compact 2+2 coupé – has been designed as an exclusive, “something special” vehicle and exudes a tangible air of excitement. With its finely honed aerodynamics and modern engine technologies, the RCZ offers an innovative balance of performance and environmental friendliness.

The Peugeot RCZ’s range of engines has not only to live up to the standards of the vehicle itself but also satisfy the demands of modern drivers who are “experts” in driving pleasure.

Athletic, elegant and aerodynamic, the style of the RCZ offers a new experience and energy derived from the original architecture. The sensuality of the car’s ‘double-bubble’ roof and rear windscreen combine with its aluminium arches to produce its most distinctive features. Expressing all of Peugeot’s expertise in terms of road holding, the RCZ provides a thrilling experience with precision and driveability, creating a sense of real excitement and occasion for the driver.

At the 2009 International Automobile Festival the RCZ won hands-down ahead of the BMW Z4, Citroën DS3 and Nissan 370Z to take the highest honour – The Most Beautiful Car of the Year. By winning this prestigious award – the fourth time for Peugeot - the RCZ strikingly perpetuates the tradition of pleasure vehicles that have shaped Peugeot's image and history, while holding out great promise for the future.

The new RCZ officially went on sale October 1st and the Australian International Motor Show was its first public appearance.-theautochannel.com

A practical MPV that is beyond your expectations

What do the Proton Exora and Lotus T127 have in common? Well, they both have their handling tuned by brilliant chassis gurus at Lotus Engineering. But while the T127 is a purpose built racing machine, the Exora is made to be a practical MPV.

Proton Exora

Take a drive in the Exora and its Lotus tuned chassis will immediately shines through. No, it isn't as agile as a Lotus Exige but for an MPV, it has nicely balanced ride and handling and a steering that is well tuned.
When it comes to styling, the Exora represents one of Proton's best efforts. But it is on the inside where the Exora really shines. The cabin offers comfortable seating for seven. There is generous space in the rearmost row to shame its Japanese and Korean MPV rivals. Access to the rearmost row is a breeze as well, thanks to the relatively long doors and the easy folding operation of the middle row seats. Moreover, passengers in both the second and third rows are spoilt with air-con vents, a feature that can only be found in more expensive models.

Fold the two rows of seats down and you'll get a big and voluminous load area that is completely flat, which makes it perfect for the occasional shopping spree at Ikea. There are also ample storage spaces all over the cabin that can be used to store small items and odds and ends.
In terms of safety, the Exora is suitably equipped with twin front airbags, seat belt pre-tensioners, ABS with EBD as well as security features like an immobiliser and alarm.
Despite its spaciousness, practicality and versatility, the Exora is reasonably priced and is even more affordable than some smaller and less practical Korean and Japanese models. When it comes to an MPV that is value-for-money, the Proton Exora is a package that is hard to beat.  by Raymond Lai.oneshift.com

2012 Porsche 928 Specs Spy Shots

2012 Porsche 928 is expected to be released soon. For new 2012 Porsche model includes a front-engine Coupe and a GT model. This is specifications of New 2012 Porsche 928 :

2012 Porsche 928 will equipped with V8 engine on the 928 can pump out about 350 horsepower and a turbocharged version, the horsepower can exceed 500. The GT Coupe version has a V10 engine that can produce 605 horsepower. For transmissions, available with standard six-speed manual or a seven-speed automatic, dual-clutch DSG. 2012 928 GT Coupe can reach a top speed of 198 mph with an acceleration of 0 to 60 mph in about 3.8 seconds.

For interior and exterior features, rear-wheel drive system will paired with a transaxle helps balance weight distribution. Weight of the 2012 Porsche 928 is also reduced but the shorter wheelbase for the 928 means less room in the rear seat.

For the price starts at about $90,000 for the basic version of the Coupe. For versions with engines that churn out more horsepower, a driver can expect to pay more than $150,000.-newcarproduct.com

OVERWHELMING INTEREST IN THE ALL-NEW INSPIRA - A SIGN OF APPROVAL FROM CAR BUYERS

1100 bookings in ten days and the numbers continue to increase for PROTON’s latest model the Inspira, ahead of the four-door executive sedan’s much anticipated launch date on November 10th 2010.

Despite only several details of the new car being shared with the public, and PROTON only revealing a glimpse of what the actual sedan will look like, Proton showrooms nationwide have been inundated with enquiries from car buyers and those who have placed a booking fee of RM1,000 for the vehicle since its soft launch on October 21.

“The enormous level of interest shown since we first announced the introduction of the new model is certainly a big sign of approval from car buyers. PROTON would like to thank all those who have placed a booking for the Inspira and believe me, they will not be disappointed with the new generation of Proton cars coming their way,” said PROTON Holdings Berhad Group Managing Director Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

The all-new Inspira, available in 1.8-litre CVT and manual transmission as well as in 2-liter CVT  transmission, is a model that has been jointly-developed by PROTON with Mitsubishi Motor Corporation of Japan under a new strategic alliance that is based on the global ideology and benefits of product sharing.

The automatic CVT, or Continuously Variable Transmission with the Intelligent & Innovative Vehicle Electronic Control System (INVECS-III), is an advanced system that automatically selects the optimal gear ratio based on road and driving conditions with a self-learning ability to match an individual’s driving style.

The Inspira is also fitted with Mitsubishi’s Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system or in short, MIVEC, a technology that provides optimal valve timing at both low and high rev ranges.

Sporting significant aesthetic enhancements, the Inspira is being further improved with the unmistakable Lotus ride and handling, enhancing the car’s driving experience and comfort.
“The new strategic relationship with Mitsubishi is based on the fundamentals of knowledge exchange, and one that brings PROTON to a new and higher level in which we can benefit from technologically in our pursuit of evolving into a global car manufacturer, ” said Dato’ Syed Zainal Abidin.

Unlike in the early days of PROTON where a similar relationship confined the national car manufacturer to purely receiving the transfer of technology from Mitsubishi, this new strategic alliance, which is based on the principles of product sharing, will also see Mitsubishi benefitting from the various enhancements underwritten by PROTON.

“It is a win-win partnership, one that is in the true spirit of product sharing to enhance the business of both companies going forward in our respective markets,” added Dato’ Syed Zainal Abidin.

The Inspira joins other existing Proton models with its strong booking numbers. To date, the top three Proton models in terms of bookings are the Exora with 3,600 units, the Persona with 6,100 units and Saga with 9,600 units.-proton.com

2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon

Unbeknownst to most North Americans, station wagons are cool. Europeans, who are less caught up in the SUV/CUV thing, seem to know this. Why else would there be such critters as the BMW M5 Touring, Audi RS6 Avant, Audi S4 Avant, Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Wagon and Alfa Romeo 159 Sportwagon running about over there? Not to mention numerous diesel-sipping wagons from a host of manufacturers.

2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 4MATIC Wagon

For those with a high-end wagon itch on this side of the pond, Mercedes-Benz now offers a wagon version of the new-for-2010 E-Class, the 2011 E350 4MATIC Wagon. (The previous E-Class wagon was available in Canada as 2009 model year; there was not one for 2010.)

With a base sticker of $66,900, the wagon comes in at $4,000 more than the base E350 Sedan. It is motivated by M-B’s ubiquitous 286-hp 3.5-litre V6/7G-Tronic seven-speed manumatic combo and features 4MATIC permanent all-wheel-drive.

Full disclosure here: I’m a wagon enthusiast. I learned to drive in a ’65 Ford Falcon Futura wagon and my Dad was a serial Volvo wagon owner. I just bought a used 2005 Volvo V70.

So when I say this E350 Wagon, which comes fitted with standard AMG Styling package and 18-inch five-spoke alloys, looks cooler than the E350 sedan, you’ll understand where I’m coming from.

But it does. Everyone who laid eyes on it thought this family hauler cut a pretty sharp profile. Naturally, the betrothed wants one, as do all her cronies at work.

Functionality is the wagon’s raison d’etre, and here this Merc comes up big. Load space is not compromised by a raked and pinched rear end. With 1,950 litres (68.8 cu. ft.) available, it has largest luggage compartment in its class and a maximum payload of 575 kg (1,268 lbs). Self-leveling rear air suspension is standard.

The second row 60/40 split seats can be flipped forward (with out fussing with the head restraints) from levers on the D-pillars. The load floor is almost flat and surprisingly low – lower than my Volvo. Surprising in that this is an all-wheel-drive car and beneath the floor lurks a fold-up rear-facing bench seat for two small (and presumably Gravol-numbed) humans.

In the tradition of the great North American station wagon, this barf-o-rama perch makes the E350 Wagon a real seven-seater. And don’t we all miss following a car for miles and miles with two green-faced brats making faces at us?

As would be expected, this wagon drives like an E-Class. Silky smooth, not overly sporting, yet shows the poise and long distant touring comfort we expect from this Stuttgart automaker.

Adding to the latter was the $900 Drive-Dynamic multi-contour driver’s seat with massage function and inflatable side bolsters that keep you in place when lateral gs are on the rise: gimmicky but fun, and defeatable if you don’t like it.

I found the car handles way better with this feature on. Okay, it doesn’t really. But when the seat pushes into you in the mildest of turns, you feel like you’re really flying.

I’ve always considered Mercedes’ COMAND interface (controlled by a rotary knob and surrounding buttons on the centre console) to be one of the best, and again, kudos to M-B for having a crystal clear LCD screen that is visible in all light conditions.

A nice feature for our climate is the residual engine heat usage wherein warm air blows into the cabin when the engine is shut off for short periods. A heated steering wheel and heated windshield washer system are also standard.

This tester was fitted with the $4,700 Premium Package that adds media interface (with iPod, USB and auxiliary connections), door-integrated roller blinds for rear side windows, Harman/Kardon LOGIC7 surround sound system, COMAND APS navigation, Linguatronic voice control, DVD changer and SD memory slot, panoramic sunroof and proximity key with push button start.

Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist are available for $800. The optional $2,700 Advanced Driving Assistance Package and Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control is bundled with Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist.

Both these systems expand on the passive warning systems by altering the car’s trajectory via targeted braking inputs if the driver does not respond to the visual and audio alerts. In practice, the car will nudge itself back into the proper lane if you drift, or similarly, pull itself away from a potential collision with a vehicle in your blind spot. Driver inputs instantly override the systems.

Official fuel economy figures for the 2011 Mercedes Benz E350 Wagon are 12.8 L/100 km city and 8.6 L/100 km highway on premium fuel. I saw 11.2 L/100 km over a week of mostly highway motoring.

This wagon’s immediate competitors are the 300-hp Audi A6 Avant ($68,200) and the 304 hp Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon AWD ($53,790). BMW hasn’t offered a wagon version of the 2011 5 Series here yet.

Shoppers kicking tires in the Mercedes showroom will notice the ML350 4Matic starts at $57,400 – a not insignificant $9,500 less than the E350 Wagon. This five-seat SUV has the same engine and drivetrain as the wagon and features marginally more cargo capacity. Also undercutting the wagon by a fair margin is the $58,900 ML350 BlueTEC with that terrifically torquey and efficient V6 turbo-diesel engine.

It’s fair to say the 2011 E350 Wagon will be a niche vehicle, not racking up ML-like sales. But for some, this finely crafted and functional family hauler will be a prefect fit. Just ask my wife.-autotrader.ca