Leaked: First images with the 2012 Mercedes Benz M Class

The actual version of Mercedes M Class, the W164 is was introduced for the first time in April 2005 as a 2006 model. It was almost entirely new, with a more sporting, aerodynamic look—the coefficient of drag is down to 0.34. On 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class got a minor face-lift as it debuted at the 2008 New York International Auto Show.

This face-lift includes new front headlights, redesigned front and rear bumpers, new exterior mirrors, new rim choices, a larger front grille, restyled interior, and a new ML 420 CDI engine choice. The ML 280 CDI became the ML 300 CDI, the 320 CDI the 350 CDI, and the 420 CDI became the 450 CDI.

Now, for 2012 Mercedes will unveil a new generation M Class. Here are the first images showing the luxurious SUV from the German automaker. The images were scanned from a Mercedes brochure.

Under the hood, engine options are expected to include a 306 PS (225 kW / 302 hp) 3.5-liter V6, a 435 PS (320 kW / 429 hp) 4.6-liter V8, and a 3.0-liter diesel that develops 265 PS (195 kW / 262 hp). A few reports have suggested that a diesel-electric hybrid ML-Class is in the works, although a gasoline-electric hybrid like that in the upcoming ML450 Hybridis almost certain.-inautonews.com

Latest Garmin map for Malaysia & Singapore dated 6th June 2011

The latest Garmin map for Malaysia & Singapore dated 6th June 2011 is now available for downloading. 

Click HERE to download.

Video: Aston Martin Virage versus Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG

Aston Martin, the heart of many is on the road competing with the powerful Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. It is the Aston Martin Virage, the latest addition of the British brand that dares to challenge AMG.

The Virage was the replacement of Aston Martin for the very old V8 models and was introduced earlier at the Birmingham Motor Show in the year 1988. Few modifications entered in to highlight the car’s glory and eventually, at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show its new generation Virage was introduced to fit in the current lineup of the Aston Martin. The car is slotted between the DB9 and DBS and aims to offer high performance with refined GT.

The car has received 4-cylinder advantage as compared to the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Its engine features 6.0 liter V12, whereas, the Merc boasts a 6.2 liter V8 engine. However, Virage failed to produce more than what the AMG supercar produces. The AMG produces straight 73 bhp more than the Virage.

Though the results are clear in who wins the cup and becomes heart of all, but at least people will be more specific about their favorite car among both of them. Check out this video and see who wins the at last. Though the results are not surprising, but you will definitely going to enjoy, especially if you are the AMG enthusiasts.-inautonews.com

Subaru XV Concept headed for 2011 Australian International Motor Show

Subaru will exhibit the all-new Subaru XV Concept at next month’s Australian International Motor Show in Melbourne. It will be just the second time the world gets a chance to see the high-riding Impreza-style hatchback.

The Subaru XV Concept was first unveiled at the Auto Shanghai 2011 event earlier this year, but the Melbourne event will be the first time Australians get a glimpse of the concept up close.

Adopting the same personality as the Subaru Outback and Subaru Forester, the XV Concept design offers a fun and youthful character yet a beefy exterior stance with energetic and eager off-road underpinnings. The standout of its design however is the all-glass roof, offering a futuristic and open environment to passengers.

No official details or specifications of the car have been released yet other than that it uses Subaru’s symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system. There’s also been no word if the car will make it to production. Nick Senior, managing director of Subaru Australia, has mentioned such possibilities though. He said,

“We’re delighted to showcase this newest Subaru concept and will be seeking feedback on our stand at the show to gauge the level of possible customer interest in such a car.
“It promises to be a totally new offering. The XV Concept was warmly received in Shanghai and based on the long-term success of Forester and Outback, we can see this type of vehicle could have huge potential in pursuing a new niche in Australia.”

The Australian International Motor Show will run from July 1 to July 10 in Melbourne. We look forward to bringing you plenty of live coverage.-caradvice.com.au

Leaked: 2012 BMW 1 Series Photos Surface

If the sheetmetal for the current BMW 1 Series isn’t polarizing enough for you, then check out the photos of the 2012 BMW 1 Series just leaked on the Internet today.

Earlier this year, our spy photographers caught a 1 Series tester playing in the snow. The camouflage left a lot to the imagination, though it’s doubtful any BMW fan with Photoshop skills would’ve rendered what we see here. Depending on the angle, it appears to be part X1, part 5-Series GT and—for better or for worse—the summation of BMW’s current design direction (miss Chris Bangle yet?).

The photos are of the five-door hatchback version sold only in Europe so we will have to wait and see how the coupe turns out. And like the current 1-Series, expect a variety of gas engines as well as diesel options. Beyond that, details are slim for now, but more info should start trickling in closer to its official debut at the Frankfurt Auto Show this September.-wot.motortrend.com