In their quest to lower their overall fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, Nissan Motors is introducing a range of advanced, fuel-saving technologies, to be used in the upcoming models. As the the ultimate goal, they want to arrive at ZERO EMISSION driving. They also have a PURE DRIVE  program which focuses on more convenient eco-technologies such as CVT, Idling Stop, HEV, Clean Diesel, and so on.

“Nissan is continuously studying ways to reach the ultimate efficiency of its powertrains for further CO2 emission reduction. As a result of that, Nissan will introduce a series of innovative technologies on its 3 and 4-cylinder gasoline engines as well as a new highefficient hybrid system”, said Shuichi Nishimura, Corporate Vice President, Powertrain Engineering Division.

“The adoption of different types of low-emission technologies is a great solution as we can attend different consumer needs. PURE DRIVE vehicles will offer customers a wider selection of models fitting both their financial and environmental needs” said Takao Katagiri, SVP for Marketing & Sales in Japan.

Here’s a list of Nissan’s new fuel-saving technologies with a brief explanation for each one:

1. Newly Developed Nissan Micra Compact Car Powertrain
Among many attributes, the all-new Nissan Micra, which launches this month in Japan, achieves fuel consumption of 26km/liter – the best in its class. Helping achieve this figure is Nissan’s newly developed compact car powertrain, which is anchored by a new 3-cylinder engine and next-generation XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission).

HR12DE Engine
Developed in pursuit of lighter weight and a smaller size than previous engines in the compact car class, the new 3-cylinder 1.2-liter HR12DE engine requires fewer moving parts compared to the more commonly used 4-cylinder engines. By applying bore circularity machining to the cylinder block, friction has been reduced by 20% (compared with conventional 4-cylinder engines). Moreover, improved NV (noise vibration) performance – at a level equivalent to that of a 4-cylinder engine – has been achieved by adjusting the weight balance of the engine’s rotary shaft.

The new XTRONIC CVT utilizes a one-piece structure equipped with a sub-planetary gear. Its compact, lightweight design is 10% smaller and 13% lighter than previous CVT designs, while also achieving a 30% friction reduction for powerful acceleration performance, quiet operation and improved fuel economy. Its gear ratio of 7.3 (versus a conventional CVT’s 6.0) is the world’s largest among automatic transmissions equipped passenger cars.

The New XTRONIC CVTA
new Idling Stop system has also been adopted and includes an internal lock function using the sub-planetary gear. The engine can be restarted on a sloping road** without sliding backwards. And, by accurately measuring the crankshaft position during engine shutdown, the engine restart time is shortened. During everyday driving, the idling stop function works so smoothly that the driver will hardly be aware of it.

2. Clean Diesel X-TRAIL with Automatic Transmission – Compliant With One of the World’s Most Stringent Emission Standards
The automatic transmission X-TRAIL equipped with a clean diesel engine (M9R) will be launched this month in Japan. The vehicle will be compliant with the country’s post-new long-term regulations, the most stringent emission standards in the world.

M9R Engine
Along with the use of highly precise consolidated engine control, the AT Clean Diesel X-TRAIL utilizes a new “highly dispersive lean NOx trap (LNT) catalyst”, which is being put to practical use for the first time in the world. The “highly dispersive LNT catalyst” uses noble metal particles, such as platinum, microparticulated to approximately 40% and arranged effectively. This innovation address the problem of efficiency degradation caused by decreased surface area associated with noble metal aggregation experienced in conventional catalysts. As a result, a reduction in noble metals and stable exhaust emission control have become possible, enabling the use of a clean diesel engine compatible with the post-new long-term regulations in automatic transmission equipped cars.

3. High-Efficiency Hybrid System
Nissan has developed a unique hybrid system, targeted to be the most efficient motor and clutch parallel full hybrid system. It utilizes an electronically controlled clutch positioned between the engine, motor and drive wheels.

The Hybrid System
The hybrid system allows for the elimination of friction by completely disconnecting the engine from the system during motor driving or deceleration. It is highly energy-efficient because the battery is charged efficiently by the engine while driving, while the rotational energy of the wheels is used for energy regeneration. When the clutch is engaged, the engine, motor and wheels are directly connected, so the system also achieves responsive acceleration for sporty driving. In addition, accurate control allows the engine to be stopped more frequently. During test demonstrations conducted in city conditions, it was found that the engine was in a halt condition for almost 50% of the driving time.

The motor is powered by a laminated lithium-ion battery featuring the same structure as the one used on LEAF, Nissan’s electric vehicle. The powerful lithium-ion batteries are used to deliver high-response linear acceleration and fuel consumption equivalent to that of compact cars. The batteries are supplied by Automotive Energy Supply Corporation (AESC), a subsidiary jointly established by Nissan and NEC Corp. of Japan.

The hybrid system is scheduled to be available on the Infiniti M in late 2010.

4. The World’s First Mass-Produced 1.5-liter Engine with Dual Injectors
Another advanced fuel-efficient technology to be launched soon is Nissan’s new 1.5-liter engine (HR15DE), the world’s first mass-produced 1.5-liter engine with dual injectors (2 compact injectors per each cylinder).

HR15DE Engine
The dual injectors stabilize combustion by reducing the size of the particles sprayed in the form of a mist by approximately 60%. Improved thermal efficiency and reduced inhalation resistance have been achieved by combining the injectors with Continuously Variable valve Timing Control (CVTC), which continuously changes the opening-closing timing of the inlet and exhaust valves. As a result, fuel economy has been improved by approximately 4% compared to Nissan’s conventional engines in the same class. In addition, more efficient burning helps to control the hydrocarbons in the exhaust gas and reduces the amount of noble metals needed for exhaust purification. The engine is featured in Nissan JUKE.

5. A Newly Developed 1.6-liter Direct Injection Gasoline Turbocharged Engine
Based on the downsizing concept, a new 1.6-liter 4-cylinder MR16DDT engine with Direct Injection Gasoline technology has been developed – combining a turbocharger with a low displacement engine to achieve both higher power output and lower fuel consumption. It also adopts inlet and exhaustion CVTC and hydrogen-free DLC(Diamond Like Carbon) coating, as well as other new technologies such as the new friction-reduced valve spring.

MR16DDT Engine
The MR16DDT engine achieves power equivalent to that of a 2.5-liter engine, along with the fuel efficiency equivalent to a 1.8-liter engine. The new engine will be available in the Nissan JUKE.

Firstly let’s look at servicing of the car. Many people will try and save money by not getting their car serviced. Not only is this a stupid move as you risk the health of the engine and a hefty repair bill, it is also a false economy. You see a well serviced car is likely to perform better and save you on fuel. Air filters should be replaced regularly. These only cost a few pounds and often become clogged up with dirt. Anyone can replace one of these; usually it’s just a case of popping a few clips and swapping the filters over. Then there is the issue of oil changes. Most garages will do an oil change for under £50. Failing this you can easily do it yourself if you don’t mind getting a bit dirty and aren’t worried about keeping up the service history. Usually takes no more than half an hour. Finally check your tires. Deflated tires reduce grip and hurt your fuel economy. Make sure your tires are pumped up.

Then we come to the question of weight. Look in your boot. Do you have lots of junk in there? I had a set of brake disks in mine for a month. Get it all out. The extra weight doesn’t move itself around; more weight requires more power to move it.

Finally there is driving styles. If you are the sort of person who races through your gears then there is one obvious way to reduce your fuel consumption. For the rest of us we can still cut down our running costs. Firstly air conditioning. Air conditioning is one of those luxuries we think we cannot live without, but often putting on the regular fan is just as effective, especially if the temperature is only mild outside. This can save a small fortune over a year. Open windows are another expensive habit many drivers have. Open windows increase drag and decrease fuel efficiency. You should only open your window if you really need to, and if possible wait for that cigarette (for safety reason too!).

With a few small changes it is very possible to drastically reduce our carbon footprint and the damage our wallets too. Nobody likes spending money for no reason; take these simple steps to save a lot of money.

Like always some days before a major autoshow manufacturers release a sneak preview of what they are gonna come up with and here’s Cadillac with the brand new SRX which will be premiered at the upcoming Detroit Motorshow. The previous version of Caddy SRX has been such a nice vehicle and enjoyed good success in markets all around the world so let’s hope GM is not disappointing with the new one. Designwise, 2010 SRX is a child of Provoq concept which Cadillac brought to Detroit show last year. This is truly an evolution for the edgy design line Cadillac has been developing in recent years for all models and with every new model it gets better and better, so SRX has a grown up design. It is a very good looking car , while stays away from being too flash begging for attention. It has a character of its own which appeals to younger generation as well as traditional Caddy buyers.

The base model which will hit the dealerships in mid 2009, comes with a 3.0 liter V6 developing 260 horsepower, almost the same engine in the CTS but 600cc smaller maybe for the sake of fuel efficiency, Also as an optional extra you can pick a new 2.8 liter turbocharged V6 with 300 horsepower, which seems to be the better choice for this car, because this being a Caddy, sure you will get a lot of weight  for your money! Both engines features direct injection system and uses a six speed automatic box to deliver the power.

All wheel drive system is also an option, base model is Front drive. SRX is more of a crossover than a full blooded SUV, this is an urban car, it barely would touch anything but tarmac, so the lack of AWD as standard is not a serious drawback. Of course its AWD system is a sophisticated one as it features an electronic limited-slip differential which adjust the power on either sides as well as front and rear wheels.

Interior is typically Cadillac, just like the CTS dashboard. It looks fine and new, although those big vertical air vents are a bit odd, but it is made of very high quality materials. It even comes with hand-stitched leather on top of dashboard! There is also a pop-up screen, power liftgate, bluetooth, rear headrests screens and a hard drive for your entertainment.

There is no mention of pricing for the time being, but Detroit show will reveal more details.

[View with PicLens]

PRESS RELEASE:

DETROIT – Cadillac unveiled the next-generation 2010 SRX Crossover today, featuring a completely new design and more-efficient, high-technology engine choices. The new SRX is a mid-size luxury crossover coming to the North American International Auto Show next week.

“The all-new SRX is a fresh and compelling crossover aimed squarely at the priorities of luxury buyers,” said Mark McNabb, North America vice president, Cadillac/Premium Channel. “With new technologies for increased efficiency and safety, the redesigned 2010 SRX Crossover focuses on both the emotional and pragmatic sides of the luxury consumer.”

The 2010 SRX is designed for efficient performance, including the choice of two high-tech six-cylinder engines that are new to Cadillac – the smallest-displacement engines it offers in North America. A new, 3.0L direct injected V-6 engine is standard and a new, 2.8L turbocharged V-6 is optional. Both engines employ technology that helps produce strong performance that is typical of larger-displacement engines. Direct injection enables a 25-percent reduction in hydrocarbon emissions. Fuel economy in the mid-20s on the highway is expected, but testing isn’t complete.

Performance and safety are enhanced by an available all-wheel-drive (AWD) system that is designed to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. The AWD system includes an advanced electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD) that distributes torque as needed from side to side along the rear axle, as well as from the front to rear axle. The pre-emptive, active-on-demand system provides an extra measure of capability in wet or icy conditions.

The 2010 SRX rides on a wide track that was designed to deliver a nimble, responsive driving experience. It seats five, with generous occupant and cargo room, and can tow up to 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg).

Distinctive design and craftsmanship

“Cadillac is known for bold design. The 2010 SRX Crossover builds on that reputation,” said Clay Dean, Cadillac global design director. “As with the 2008 CTS, we advanced our Art and Science design to create a crossover for style-conscious customers. The exterior features a dramatic diving gesture on the body side to impart the feeling of movement, even at rest.”

A multi-piece shield grille and Cadillac’s iconic vertical headlamps – with light pipe technology and available adaptive forward lighting – are the face of the SRX. They blend into a tightly wrapped, sweeping body that tapers downward at the rear, giving the vehicle a sporty profile, Dean said.

The SRX features a wide stance, minimal overhang and wheels pushed to corners. Eighteen-inch wheels are standard and 20-inch wheels are offered. A bold accent line dives across the body side and culminates at a chrome front fender vent that incorporates a side marker lamp. An integrated spoiler on the rearward edge of the roof extends the sleek lines and improves aerodynamics.

“Inside the new SRX, technical precision blends with old-world craftsmanship,” Dean said. “Hand-cut-and-sewn coverings on the instrument panel and ambient lighting details convey a finely tailored cabin.”

An integrated center stack houses controls for climate and audio systems, while the navigation system rises from the center of the instrument panel. A signature example of the SRX’s attention to detail is the Cadillac script logos in the front door sill plates that illuminate when the doors are opened.

Advanced technology and entertainment systems

The 2010 SRX features numerous advanced electronic systems. Highlights include a “pop-up” navigation screen with three-dimensional imaging; adaptive forward lighting that swivels the headlamps in synch with vehicle steering; power liftgate with adjustable height setting; integrated hard disc drive for audio storage and a dual-screen system for rear entertainment.

Bluetooth compatibility is standard, as is OnStar’s turn-by-turn navigation service for buyers who do not select the car’s navigation system option.

Efficient performance

The SRX is powered by a new, fuel-efficient direct injected 3.0L V-6 that delivers an estimated 260 horsepower (193 kW) and is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Direct injection results in more power, better fuel economy and lower emissions, all will a smaller-displacement package. As a result, the new V-6 engine is expected to raise the SRX’s standard power rating by 5 horsepower, while achieving an estimated 1 0-15-percent fuel economy improvement.

The 3.0L direct injection V-6 is a smaller-displacement version of the 3.6L, direct injection engine featured in the CTS sport sedan and named one of the world’s 10 Best Engines for 2009 by Ward’s Automotive. Along with direct injection technology, the 3.0L engine employs variable valve timing to optimize power and fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.

The Hydra-Matic 6T70 six-speed automatic transmission helps save fuel by lowering the engine’s rpm at constant highway speeds, while manual shift control enables greater driver interaction when desired. The new SRX includes a driver-selectable “eco mode” that alters transmission shift points to maximize fuel economy.

“The 2010 SRX will deliver excellent, balanced driving dynamics in all types of weather,” said Bob Reuter, global vehicle chief engineer. “The all-wheel-drive system with electronic limited slip effectively transfers torque not only from front to rear, but also along the rear axle. This system sets a new benchmark for all all-wheel-drive systems, giving the driver control and confidence on any road surface.”

Traction control is taken a step further on AWD models with the rear eLSD. In icy or wet conditions, the system can transfer up to 100 percent of torque to the wheel that has more grip. The eLSD also gives the driver enhanced control when cornering hard or completing a high-speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the vehicle more closely follow the direction of the front wheels.

The suspension includes a real-time damping system in conjunction with AWD that adjusts shock damping rates in response to road conditions for a smooth ride quality.

Enhanced safety

SRX’s safety features are designed to protect occupants before, during and after a crash. A strong body structure and chassis that absorbs crash energy is complemented by the use of martensitic steel in the fully enclosed rocker sections. Martensitic steel is one of the strongest available and its use in the rockers helps protect against intrusion during a side-impact crash, while also maintaining the structure during front and rear crashes.

Additional safety features include standard head curtain side air bags, standard front seat-mounted pelvic/thorax side air bags, front safety belts with dual pretensioners and load limiters, rollover mitigation sensors, a pedal release system, trailer stability assist and OnStar.

The SRX was also designed to meet European pedestrian protection standards; and the front bumper is positioned for greater compatibility with car bumpers.

Production begins in the second quarter of 2009, with dealer availability shortly thereafter.

The title for this news should be Pontiac mid-year enhancement, but, just look at it! it looks like a miserable dropout! Pontiac actually released that in L.A autoshow as a mid-life enhance to the G6 lineup, but mid-life crisis is a better word for it. The enhanced G6 is getting a new 4cylinder 33mpg engine and also an E85-capable V6. It comes with G8 inspired fascias in front and rear, and also has a new radio! So, well done Pontiac, in a time when GM needs good product for sale, you waste money on updating something like this! well done!

GM’s Press

Detroit - Pontiac has announced that it is ringing in the new year with a fresh look for its best-selling line of G6 mid-size vehicles. Additional fuel-saving powertrain options, more aggressive exterior styling, and a sleek new instrument panel highlight the 2009.5 model G6, which will begin arriving in Pontiac dealerships in January.

“The G6 has always been one of our most important vehicles and has been Pontiac’s number-one seller since it was launched in 2004,” said Susan Docherty, vice president of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. “As the most complete family of mid-size vehicles available in the marketplace, the new enhancements for 2009 will further solidify the G6’s reputation for sporty style and handling without sacrificing value and fuel efficiency.”

All G6 models, including sedans, coupes and convertibles, receive the interior upgrades. The uniquely styled G6 GXP models will not be affected by the exterior or powertrain changes.

New Powertrain Options

For the first time, the G6 coupe will be available with GM’s fuel sipping, 164-horsepower 2.4L four-cylinder Ecotec engine. Linked to a six-speed automatic transmission, the coupe’s new powertrain combo is capable of the same 33 miles per gallon fuel efficiency as the current G6 sedan and also incorporates a new TAPshift manual shift system with steering wheel-mounted paddle controls.

In those areas where E85 ethanol-based fuel is readily available, a FlexFuel version of the 219-horsepower 3.5L V6 will be available as a no-cost alternative to the standard 3.5L engine on all body styles.

The optional 222-horsepower 3.9L V6 for the G6 convertible remains unchanged, as does the standard 252-horsepower 3.6L V6 in all GXP models.

Sportier Exterior

Inspired by the sporty front end styling of the new G8 performance sedan, the new G6 front fascia features chrome surrounds for the signature Pontiac dual port honeycomb grille. This same grille pattern is carried to an updated lower air dam.

Also new are a revised headlight design with clear park/turn lenses and amber lamps, body color mirrors and painted rockers on the sedan and coupe. An updated spoiler is available for base model sedans and is standard on the GT models.

New rear fascias unique to the sedan and coupe/convertible accommodate both single and dual exhaust, as well as larger diameter exhaust tips.

17-inch chrome wheel covers are now standard equipped on all four-cylinder, six-speed automatic sedans and coupes. An updated 17-inch wheel will be standard as a part of the popular Sun-and-Sound package.

Refreshed Interior

A revised center stack is the most obvious interior enhancement of the 2009.5 model G6, sporting all new HVAC controls and an updated AM/FM/CD/MP3 radio with auxiliary audio input jack. The driver information center has moved to the gauge cluster, which has also been enhanced with new graphics and lighting.

The 2009.5 G6 will also benefit from the integrated info-tainment opportunities in GM’s optional MY LINK enhanced communication package. MY LINK integrates audio system, Bluetooth telephone, XM satellite radio and OnStar navigation functions in one simple package. It includes an upgraded USB-equipped radio system, allowing for direct control of various portable music players, plus provides a full year of both XM radio and OnStar Directions and Connections services.

Other interior changes include new dark satin nickel trim accents on the steering wheel, door panels, and shifter plate. New two-tone seats in an ebony-light taupe color combination are available in either cloth or leather for all models, offering an option to the standard ebony seats. A new optional ebony-titanium color leather seating package is also available on all GT and GXP models.

Pricing

Pricing for the new G6 coupe with the four-cylinder, six-speed automatic powertrain combo starts at $22,890, including $670 destination and freight charges (DFC). A comparably equipped G6 sedan starts at $23,875.

The E85-capable FlexFuel 3.5L equipped G6 sedan starts at $24,125, with the GT coupe starting at $25,280. The 2009.5 G6 retractable hardtop convertible starts at $32,970.

A special value-priced G6 base sedan with a standard equipment package will start at $19,945.

All G6 models are covered by GM’s five-year, 100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and three-year, 36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty.

Audi’s lil naughty boy, the S3 is getting new tools to add up to its top notch driving pleasure. As S3 has always been one the best choices in hot hatch market, Although the price tag is always an issue with this.Now Audi announced that this car is available with the brilliant dual-clutch transmission which results in better fuel economy and better acceleration, while its paddle-shift make playing with this car even more fun. The concept of such system is simple, as you change the gear, the gearbox prepares the next one and put it in queue, so when you go for it, it’s done in no time! Brilliant! Both the Audi S3 Sportback S tronic and the S3 with the same gearbox are powered by the 2.0 TFSI engine that outputs 195 kW (265 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque.

S3 S tronic starts at 39,800 euros, normal S3 is about a grand cheaper.

Audi’s Press:

A milestone in transmission technology is now available in the Audi S3 and S3 Sportback sporty compact models. The S tronic dual-clutch transmission unites the powerful two-liter TFSI engine with the road in a manner that is both sporty and efficient. This ensures quicker acceleration, high agility and ride comfort along with improved fuel efficiency.

A genuine marvel of engineering, the revolutionary S tronic dual-clutch transmission has been a sensation ever since it debuted in the Audi TT 3.2 quattro in spring 2003. It combines the advantages of a compact six-speed manual transmission with the qualities of a modern automatic. The driver thus benefits from enormous agility and driving pleasure with acceleration that is both harmonious and dynamic, without any perceptible interruption in the power flow. This is coupled with good economy thanks to low fuel consumption, and convenient operation.

The ultracompact S tronic with twin multi-plate clutch can simultaneously preselect two gears. With its ingenious electrohydraulic operation, it shifts from one gear to the next in a split second. It can thus enable engine torque as high as 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft).

The powerhouse engine in the S3 is an ideal partner: the 2.0 TFSI has already won the “Engine of the Year Award” four times. It supplies 195 kW (265 hp) and maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft), which remains constant from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. At a weight of just 152 kilograms (335.10 pounds), this turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine propels the Audi S3 and the S3 Sportback into the exclusive class of compact sports cars.

The S tronic makes the dynamic spearhead of the A3 family even speedier. It further reduces, by two-tenths of a second, the time required to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (0 to 62.14 mph). More specifically, in just 5.5 seconds for the S3 and 5.6 seconds for the Sportback. At the same time, fuel consumption has improved to 8.3 liters/100km (28.34 mpg) with CO2 emissions of just 193 g/km (310.60 g/mile) (A3 Sportback: 8.4 liters/100km (28.00 mpg) and 195 g/km (313.82 g/mile).

Chevrolet is getting ready to unveil its new Crossover  Traverse to middle east market at Abu Dhabi International Motorshow, next month. The car will be available in showrooms afterward. Traverse shares the same platform GM is using widely in numerous Crossovers in different markets such as Buick Enclave, which in this sense is pretty much identical to Traverse. Crossovers are mid-size city SUV’s which offers practicality similar to a real SUV but in a more refined car-like manner. Chevrolet Traverse is a good recipe in this term as it drives like a normal car, yet its high riding drive, roominess, luggaging and towing capability gives it the edge over a Sedan. It is powered by a 3 liter V6 engine with 313Hp.

Traverse like other CO’s by GM are a nice car, but that is not enough to sell. It still can be easily beaten by something like Nissan Morano. 

GM’s Press :

Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The much anticipated family crossover Chevrolet Traverse is set to dazzle visitors of the 2008 Abu Dhabi International Motor Show in mid December. Hitting showroom floors in December, the Traverse is a family attitude car ideal for young families.

The Traverse drives like a regular sedan, yet offers people-hauling and cargo-carrying capabilities typically found in full size SUVs – and manages to do so with better-than-expected fuel efficiency. 

The striking design and expressive styling of the Traverse focuses on refined details with strong proportions, and it boasts the bold new global face of Chevrolet. The flush grille is bisected by the brand’s iconic cross bar, while the gold signature bow tie takes pride of place. Taut body lines and minimal overhangs convey the image of a smaller vehicle, reinforcing the Traverse’s feeling of a large vehicle that drives smaller, while tight tolerances between body components – enhanced by the vehicle’s unitised body structure, which enables wraparound fascias – emphasise a highly precise build quality.

Advanced powertrain technologies featuring a new 3.6L V-6 engine with direct injection enables a satisfying balance of great performance and fuel efficiency enabling an output of 313hp, it has excellent power and thrust. It even has the capability of towing 2,360 kg. The 3.6-litre engine is mated to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 six-speed automatic transmission, an advanced transmission with clutch-to-clutch shift operation for front- and all-wheel-drive vehicles. 

The Traverse has 360-degree safety system that helps protect passengers before, during and after a crash, including new anchor pretensions for outboard occupants. Traverse is equipped with six standard air bags: two dual-stage frontal air bags, for the driver and front passenger, two seat-mounted pelvic-thorax side-impact air bags in the first row and two head curtain side-impact air bags that cover all three seating rows. The head curtain side air bags are among the longest air bags in any production vehicle.

As part of the Safe Kids Buckle Up programme that was launched earlier this month, the Chevrolet Traverse will be available for a sneak preview at three major shopping malls in Dubai this November – Ibn Battuta Mall (6–8 November), Burjuman shopping centre (12- 15 November) and the new Dubai Mall (23-30 November). The Safe Kids Buckle Up programme highlights the importance of the use of child safety seats and the proper restraint of children in cars to reduce the number of injuries and deaths in vehicle crashes. The programme was launched in the UAE by Chevrolet/ General Motors and Safe Kids Worldwide, in partnership with the UAE National Transport Authority and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

New Chevrolet Malibu will be revealed to middle east market at Abu Dhabi International Motorshow in December.  GM describe this car as ” drop-dead gorgeous ” in the press release! Hmmmmm…  not that much really! of course it is much nicer than the car it replaces, but still far behind of big playas in this segment. Front looks quit good , side view is too simple, looks like old Caprice, but rear is awfully ugly. It seems they didn’t have time to design back end properly!

2009 Malibu comes with a 4 cylinder 2.4 litre (22 to 30 mpg) or a 3.6 litre V6 (17 to 26 mpg) both featuring Variable Valve Timing system, which optimize performance and fuel efficiency. A hybrid model will also be available.  The car’s trim versions and prices are listed below:

LS – Starts at $22,275

LT -  Starts at $23,175

LTZ - Starts at  $27,550

Hybrid  -  Starts at $26,225

Throughout the years, Malibu has always been a car that placed last in every comparison test againt European, Japanese and recently Korean opponents. For the new one, let’s hope it gains some dignity in market, not that it is a good car, but because if it fails, it’ll be another nail to GM’s coffin , and it’s a pity!

source : GM

Press release :

Dubai, United Arab Emirates– The much anticipated Chevrolet Malibu is set to wow visitors of the 2008 Abu Dhabi International Motor Show in mid December with its drop-dead gorgeous design and great value for money.

The Malibu has received a host of accolades across the U.S., with around 30 industry awards to its name so far. It was ranked ahead of its rivals according to the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS) by J.D. Power and Associates. Malibu was also named Car of the Year at the North American Car and Truck of the Year Awards (NACTOY) held at this year’s North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Reputed American magazine, Car and Driver, also listed the Malibu among its “10 Best Cars” for 2008.

Not only is it beautifully designed, with the global face of Chevrolet proudly showcasing a strong stance and bold proportions, this mid-size sedan is extremely well-equipped and has sheer driving satisfaction at its heart.

“From the outset the Chevrolet Malibu was designed to be the best midsize car in the market, and we are so excited about its arrival to the Middle East,” commented Karen Toor, Marketing Manager of Chevrolet cars in the Middle East. “The Malibu is a great looking car that offers sensational value for money, a hallmark of the Chevrolet brand, and Middle East customers will be able to experience for themselves when it hits showroom floors in the second quarter of 2009.”

The engine roster includes the 2.4-litre four cylinder unit and the powerful 3.6-litre V6. Both feature Variable Valve Timing (VVT) technology that makes the most of performance with fuel efficiency.

In the Middle East, the Malibu will be available in three trim versions: the LS, LT and the top-of-the-range LTZ. Among the broad range of Malibu models is a fuel-saving Hybrid model, which is currently being operated in Dubai, along with the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, as part of a pilot scheme being run by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority.