WDB - News

Walter R Haessner, Editor-in-Chief, WDB-News.

Friday, April 08, 2005

MUSCLE CAR 1000 FIRST-EVER FOR VINTAGE CAR ENTHUSIASTS OCT., 4-8, 2005

Newport Beach, California, April 16, 2005 (WDB). ...- Car collector Chris Hoskins announces that the first-ever rally for muscle car enthusiasts will be held October 4-8, 2005. The five-day excursion will begin in Newport Beach, drive up the California coastline to Napa Valley, and finish at the Petersen Museum with an awards gala. Proceeds from the event will benefit The Hunger Relief Organization (HeRO) to end hunger.

“I have dreamt of an event that included the great muscle cars since my grandfather took me for a ride in his 1965 Pontiac GTO when I was a boy. In addition to experiencing the beauty of California’s coastline, participants will enjoy a drag race, private tours of the Blackhawk and Petersen car collections, a Concours d’Elegance, exclusive hotels, spas and fine dining,” said organizer Hoskins.

The event is reserved for 1964-73 American muscle cars and is limited to 50 teams (1 car, 2 participants). Early registration for a $500 savings ends July 1.
The cost is $4,450 per team until July 1; $4,950 thereafter. Hotels, meals, special activities, and tours for four nights and five days are included in the registration fee.

Half of the net proceeds from the event will benefit The Hunger Relief Organization. HeRO is a 501c(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to end world hunger in this lifetime by coordinating the efforts of thousands of hunger relief agencies throughout the world. By raising global awareness and establishing accountability standards among the agencies, HeRO seeks to maximize resources and efficiently address the needs of those affected by food insecurity.

For more information, visit http://www.musclecar1000.com

Tuesday, April 05, 2005

TOYOTA SPONSORS “ROCKIN’ THE CORPS” THANK YOU CONCERT FOR TROOPS AND THEIR FAMILIES

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif.  DON ESMOND, senior V.P. of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., prepares to welcome 40,000 Marine Corps troops and their families at the “Rockin’ the Corps” tribute concert, Friday, April 1.  Sponsored by Toyota, the event was free to active duty military and their families and featured Destiny’s Child, Kiss, Ja Rule and Godsmack.

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CAMP PENDLETON, Calif., April 4, 2005 (WDB). ... Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc., joined the nonprofit organization Support the Corps and a plethora of celebrity musicians and actors at “Rockin’ the Corps,” an American Thank You concert to the men and women of the United States Marine Corps and their families.

“Toyota is proud to support our troops,” said Don Esmond, senior vice president of automotive operations and a decorated Marine veteran.  “We honor the commitment and loyalty of our Marines and their families who protect and defend our freedom.”

Toyota was the title sponsor of the concert, performed April 1 on the beach of Camp Pendleton north of San Diego, featuring musical acts Destiny’s Child, Kiss, Ja Rule, Godsmack, Richie Sambora, Hootie and the Blowfish. Hosted by Cedric The Entertainer, a number of actors and comedians also came out to support the military members and their families, including Sharon Stone, Heather Locklear, Marisa Tomei, Cindy Crawford, Chris Tucker and Jay Mohr.

“Rockin’ the Corps” was a free event open only to active duty military personnel and their families. The concert was filmed and shown via the Armed Forces Radio and Television Network to 880,000 American servicemen and servicewomen, Department of Defense civilians and their families at bases all over the world.

Camp Pendleton symbolizes the sacrifices of the U.S. armed forces.  To date, nearly 25,000 U.S. Marines and Sailors from Camp Pendleton have been deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan.  The seaside military base has suffered the highest casualty rate of any military installation in the United States.

Sponsorship funds from Toyota and other supporting sponsors, above the cost of the event, are earmarked for the Marine Corps Community Services, Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation, Marine Corps Scholarship Fund, Spirit of America Marines Fund and U.S. Marine Corps Heritage Foundation.

SEMA WORKS WITH CALIFORNIA OFFICIALS TO RESOLVE HOT ROD TITLING AND REGISTRATION DILEMMA

Diamond Bar, CA, April 5, 2005 (WDB). ...—SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association, is working with officials from the California Attorney General�fs office to seek a reasonable solution to California�fs motor vehicle registration and titling process so that specialty vehicles, including street rods, kit cars and replicas, can become properly registered and titled in the state.�

California�fs convoluted vehicle registration laws have created confusion among state hobbyists and those charged with applying these laws at the ground level.� The result has been that certain hobbyist vehicles may be erroneously titled or registered.� There are divergent opinions among hot rod industry sources and state officials regarding how many vehicles have been mistitled.�

“We agree that we need to find an equitable solution that provides vehicle owners a reasonable period of time to voluntarily retitle their vehicles and pay appropriate fees,” said Corky Coker, SEMA’s chairman and president of Coker Tire Co.� �gThat solution must contain practical requirements for those who participate in a retitling program.� In addition, we must develop provisions that will accommodate new vehicles being built today for future titling and registration.�h

SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association founded in 1963, represents the $29 billion specialty automotive industry of 5,727 member companies.� It is the authoritative source for research, data, trends and market growth information for automakers and the specialty auto products industry.�� The industry provides appearance, performance, comfort, convenience and technology products for passenger and recreational vehicles.
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(For more information contact SEMA, Media Contact:� Steve McDonald, 202/783-6007, ext. 31.)

Monday, March 28, 2005

The Truth About Cars is Back 28 March 2005

Tucson, Arizona, 2005-03-28 (WDB) . ...The Truth About Cars website has undergone a major re-design. We’ve added a new, multiple link home page, changed the review navigation a bit and killed the News section. We’ve maintained the same clean look and easy functionality that our visitors have enjoyed over the last year. As always, we welcome your comments, criticisms and contributions. Thanks for your patience!
By Robert Farago, editor. 
robert.farago@thetruthaboutcars.com
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com

Sunday, March 27, 2005

GT500 REBORN AS A MODERN THOROUGHBRED: SHELBY, SVT CREATE MOST POWERFUL MUSTANG EVER

Ford Shelby Cobra GT500

“Mustang Dream Team” of Carroll Shelby and Ford SVT develop a worthy successor to the legendary Shelby GT500 of the late ‘60s

Shelby Cobra GT500 has modern performance credentials: 450-plus-hp, supercharged V-8, 6-speed manual transmission, SVT-tuned suspension

SVT functional features with Shelby design flare - LeMans racing stripes, aerodynamic enhancements and 19-inch wheels with cross-drilled brake rotors

The driving zone - red leather seat and door trim, titanium-faced gauges
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK 2005-03-26 (WDB) . ...The most powerful factory-built Ford Mustang in history takes to the street next year, following a unique collaboration between performance car legend Carroll Shelby and the Ford Special Vehicle Team (SVT).

Ford took the wraps off the 450-plus-horsepower Ford Shelby Cobra GT500 show car at the New York International Auto Show March 23. Designed in the unmistakable image of Shelby Mustangs of the 1960s, the Shelby Cobra GT500 melds SVT’s modern engineering with the big-block performance that made the original GT500 the king of the road.

“The all-new 2005 Ford Mustang is one of the hottest cars in many years,” says Phil Martens, Ford group vice president, Product Creation. “Its chassis was engineered from the beginning to be the basis of a high-performance, world-class sports car from SVT, and the Shelby Cobra GT500 is it.”

Carroll Shelby lends his support to SVT, adapting his earlier role as a senior advisor on the “Dream Team” that was assembled to develop and build the 2005 Ford GT. “I’ve worked with the SVT guys for several years now, and I know they have the guts, the talent and the passion to deliver the best performance Mustangs ever,” says Shelby.

Friday, March 25, 2005

SCION UNVEILS ALL-NEW t2B CONCEPT VEHICLE AT 2005 NEW YORK AUTO SHOW

The all-new t2B (Tall Two-Box) Concept Vehicle-2005-03-24

NEW YORK, March 24, 2005 (WDB) . ...- - Scion, from Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., unveiled the all-new t2B (Tall Two-Box) concept vehicle at a press conference today at the 2005 New York International Auto Show. �
����The t2B concept reflects Scion�fs key product philosophies of style, versatility, and surprise. It encompasses bold exterior styling, innovative features, and a passenger-friendly interior, all packaged with Scion�fs requisite fun-to-drive factor.
�����gThe t2B combines the attitude of the xB with the comfort and sophistication of the tC to further reflect the dynamic nature of our buyers, and their desire to be distinctive,�h said Jim Farley, Scion vice president. �gThe t2B designers were given the direction to create a concept which would represent the love of owning your first car, and the mindset that your car is more than just a mode of transportation, it�fs a lifestyle.�h
����The Scion t2B was developed by Calty Design Studio in Newport Beach, Calif., and built by Five Axis of Huntington Beach. The exterior concept is the creation of Alex Shen, project lead designer and Jin Kim, senior designer from Calty.
����Riding on an all-new platform, the t2B is powered by a 2.4-liter fourcylinder engine and four-speed automatic transmission. It is equipped with 14-inch brakes with slotted rotors and 20-inch custom-machined, polished billet aluminum wheels.
����A unique asymmetric exterior shape is created through the use of a �gdemado�h design theme, which is Japanese for �gbay window.�h Just as bay windows provide a sense of added space, Calty designers took this idea and applied it to the t2B�fs overall body style, resulting in its reverse trapezoidal shape. The addition of a wedge roof gives the concept a sporty and aggressive silhouette. A flush-fit wraparound windshield nearly conjoins with its oversized door windows to create a feeling of open spaciousness.
����Exterior personality is further expressed with bezel-framed, deep-set high intensity discharge headlamps, enhancing t2B�fs feeling of width and substance. The lower radiator grille houses one high intensity LED fog lamp, which provides the illumination strength of two. Wide vertical intake scoops and large fender flares reveal a commanding presence.
����Styling elements from the front are carried over to the rear with vertical, bezel-framed red tail lights and an exhaust tip and reverse light that are housed in the lower bumper. The reverse trapezoidal shape is further emphasized with a �gwide screen�h rear window. The power rear hatch is remote operated, allowing easy cargo access.
����Door handles and b-pillars are absent on the t2B. This omission, teamed with a high beltline and contoured edges convey sophistication and allows an uninterrupted view of the vehicles profile. The passenger side features a large, single remote-controlled power sliding door, allowing easy front- and back-seat entry from a single door. The driver side incorporates two remote-controlled suicide doors, which unlatch via remote control and manually swing open a full 180-degrees, revealing a surprisingly large lounge-like interior.
����The interior design, developed by Calty senior designer Bill Chergosky and Naoki Hamajima, takes advantage of the t2B�fs pure styling exercise by using a theme of �ganything is possible.�h This theme is immediately evident upon entering the t2B. Its exterior demado shape makes the roof the widest point of the interior, allowing occupants to enjoy a sense of open space and headroom. Openness is further experienced with two fixed-glass moonroof panels which run nearly the entire length of the roof.
����Different components of the interior come together to create an enclosed environment for occupants. Rear seats are slightly higher than the front, giving a stadium-like feel. Each of the four seats is contoured to the human body. When the doors are closed, sloping, padded lining integrates with the seats, providing lounge-like comfort. Seating material is multi-layered starting with brushed bluesteel perforated leather. A unique perforated design pattern exposes an underlying layer of color-keyed material on the three passenger seats and a distinctive red underlay on the driver seat. The seats are integrated with the floor where underlying carpet is exposed through long floorboard slots made of cast rubber with a seat-matching brushed metal finish.
����An asymmetrical tri-level instrument panel features a large information ticker, which provides the user access to movies, games and music via downloads from the Internet, similar to today�fs cell phones. The upper layer of the instrument panel (IP) features an mp3 docking station, which echoes the dual moonroof design. The asymmetrical look of the IP is extended to the layout of the three-spoke steering wheel. The HVAC system is vertically integrated into a long and sleek center stack, extending from the IP to the floor.
����Customization is further maximized in the rear where the t2B�fs wide rear glass serves as a projection screen for movies, games or screen savers. To accommodate large social gatherings, the screen can be seen inside and out. A docking port and secondary controls are located in the rear cargo area for gaming systems.
����Integrated into the suicide doors are speakers, which can be directed away from the interior. This, along with the rear projection screen, turns the t2B into an entertainment center when parked.
����Unique, soft storage compartments are located in the sloping seat-integrated door pads, steering wheel, and under the rear seats. Contents are secured and removed through the use of Scion-themed zippers.
����Calty also created two small-scale variations of the t2B concept to further illustrate Scion�fs forward thinking. The two scale models, the sport-themed Fastback and the utility-themed Cargo, reflect the many design possibilities of the t2B concept. Both the Cargo and Fastback are on display at the Scion exhibit at the 2005 New York Auto Show.
�����gThe t2B pushes the envelope to successfully convey the three elements incorporated into all Scion products, style, versatility, and surprise,�h said Farley. �gLike previous Scion concepts, the t2B provides our design teams the opportunity to make an impression with creative styling elements and allows us to listen to consumer feedback.�h

SCION t2B CONCEPT VEHICLE PRELIMINARY SPECIFICATIONS

POWERTRAIN
2.4 Liter four-cylinder

DIMENSIONS (inches)
Overall Length: 164.6
Overall Width: 70.5
Overall Height: 67.0
Wheelbase: 106.3
Wheels: 20-inch
Tire Size: 225/40 R20

Wednesday, March 23, 2005

Mercedes-Benz R-class makes global debut in New York City Auto Show

All-New R-Class Luxury Vehicle to be Priced Under $50,000

Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of
Management DaimlerChrysler AG, responsible
for Research and Technology and Development.

NEW YORK, New York 2005-03-23 (WDB) . ... - Mercedes-Benz is holding the world debut of its all-new R-Class luxury vehicle at the New York Auto Show, open to the public March 25 - April 2, 2005 at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in Manhattan. �An entirely new type of Mercedes-Benz, the new R-Class combines the distinct advantages of several disparate vehicles - the sure-footedness of a four-wheel-drive sport utility vehicle, the performance and comfort of a fine sports sedan and the versatility of a luxury wagon.� Innovative design and useful technology now make possible an automotive decathlete - a vehicle that can excel at an unprecedented range of owner needs.

Seven-Speed, Four-Wheel-Drive V6 or V8 Power

When the R-Class line goes on sale in the U.S. later this year, its suggested pricing will start under $50,000.� Featuring the R350, powered by a 3.5-liter, 268-horsepower V6 engine, and the R500, which is fitted with a 5.0-liter V8 producing 302 hp, all R-Class models come with a seven-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4MATIC four-wheel drive.� Among its many options is a panoramic sunroof with nearly five feet of glass that provides an even larger sense of space.�

Three Rows of Luxury

With a sharp focus on design, comfort, space and performance, the new R-Class is designed as a roomy vehicle with space for six adults - three pairs of comfortable single seats in a spacious interior.� The new R-Class is about five inches longer than a Cadillac Escalade and ten inches longer than a Cadillac SRX, giving it the commanding size that U.S. customers want.

In comparison to other Mercedes-Benz models, the R-Class is an inch longer than the flagship S-Class sedan.� As an indicator of comfort and roominess, the new model boasts 34 inches between the first and second seat rows, and there�fs more than 30 inches between the second and third rows.

The R-Class cockpit features a four-spoke multifunction steering wheel with brushed aluminum accents on the lower spokes.� The instrument binnacle is designed with large chronometer gauges, and the console houses climate control and a modular COMAND unit that integrates audio with the optional navigation and telephone.� The audio system includes AM/FM/weatherband radio and CD as well as an auxiliary plug for MP3 players.

Where�fs the Shift Lever?

Unlike most vehicles, there�fs no shift lever dominating the center console of the new R-Class. �Thanks to the latest electronic control technology, a small stalk on the right side of the steering column now serves the purpose.� Shifting the seven-speed automatic will be simpler than ever—lift the stalk up for reverse, push down for drive, and push a button on the end for park. �Once underway, pushing one of the shift buttons on either side of the steering wheel provides Touch Shift manual gear changes.

Chassis like a Sports Car

The new platform makes use of power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering and four-wheel independent suspension with double control arms in the front and a new Mercedes-Benz four-link suspension at the rear.� Ample braking is provided by large four-wheel disc brakes with vented discs and double-piston calipers up front.� The R350 has 17-inch seven-spoke light-alloy wheels shod with 235 / 65 R 17 tires, and the R500 comes with 18-inch wheels fitted with 255 / 55 R 18 tires.� Either model can be ordered with an AMG sport package that includes 19-inch wheels and tires.�

Mercedes-Benz Safety

The new R-Class features unit body construction with front and rear crumple zones that help protect occupants during a collision by absorbing and dispersing crash energy.� More than 60 percent of the body structure is now formed from high-strength steel, and its �gdual-phase�h steel alloy even falls into the very-high-strength category, contributing to the protection provided by the passenger cell.�

Every body panel in the new R-Class is zinc-galvanized and coated on both sides with rust-preventing zinc pigments.� A six-section plastic undercladding provides protection against stones, water and dirt, eliminating the need for any conventional PVC undercoating.� Substantial wheel-well cladding (1/8-inch thick) also helps protect against stones and gravel.

The new R-Class comes with two-stage adaptive air bags for the driver and front passenger, window curtain side air bags that span all three rows of seats, and adaptive belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all six seating positions.� The R-Class also comes with a number of Mercedes-Benz active-safety innovations:

��������� ABS anti-lock brakes, which help maintain steering control during emergency braking by preventing wheel lockup.

��������� ESP stability control, technology that has been shown in government studies to reduce single-car accidents by up to 67 percent!� ESP senses skids, then reacts in a split-second to help restore control by applying the brakes on one or more wheels.�

��������� Four-wheel traction control that�fs integrated with the 4MATIC all-wheel drive; counters wheelspin by applying brakes individually.

��������� Brake Assist, which can shorten stopping distances by sensing emergency braking and automatically applying full-power brake force.

Next-Generation Mercedes-benz M-Class GOES On Sale

New M-Class Sport Utility Classified As Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK 2005-03-23 (WDB) . ... - The new-generation M-Class sport utility vehicle is going on sale this week at more than 300 Mercedes-Benz dealerships across the country, with a suggested retail price of $39,750 for the V6-powered ML350 and $48,500 for the V8 ML500, plus a $720 destination fee.� Both new models get more than 11 percent better gas mileage while being classified as super ultra-low emission vehicles, and at the same time, offer more interior space and increased power.

First M-Class Started an Industry Trend

When the Mercedes-Benz M-Class first arrived seven years ago, the new sport utility vehicle started a trend that inspired the entire auto industry to shift toward more car-like SUVs.� Virtually the only sport utility at the time with four-wheel independent suspension, the original M-Class was one of the first to be designed from the ground up, rather than being based on an existing truck platform.� The first-generation M-Class also won an impressive number of auto industry awards, including the prestigious North American Truck of the Year.

New Dimensions

The new SUV is 5.9 inches longer, 2.8 inches wider and 0.4 inches lower on the road than its predecessor, with a 114-inch wheelbase that�fs 3.7 inches longer as well.� Beneath its sleek exterior is an all-new unibody platform as well as a double-wishbone front suspension and a newly-developed four-link rear suspension that deliver impressive on-road driving performance and comfort.

New and useful technology abounds in the 2006 M-Class, including a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, an even more effective permanent four-wheel-drive system and optional features such as height-adjustable air suspension.� A revised four-wheel traction control system now incorporates functions such as a downhill driving aid and hill-start assist.

A Choice of Two High-Torque Engines

The second generation M-Class will be available with two powerful engines, both of which earn the new M-Class the status of super ultra-low emission vehicle. The ML350 is powered by an all-new 3.5-liter, four-valve-per-cylinder V6 engine delivering 268-horsepower, 258-lb.ft. of torque and an improved fuel mileage rating of 16 mpg (city) and 20 mpg (hwy). Under the hood of the ML500 is a five-liter V8 engine with 302-horsepower and 339-lb.ft. of torque that also bests its frugal predecessor by more than a mile per gallon (14 city / 19 hwy).

A Rich, Sporty Interior With Flexible Cargo Space

Inside, a completely new interior is marked by a sport-oriented instrument panel, a multi-function steering wheel, rich interior materials and significantly improved spaciousness for all five seating positions.� By comparison, there�fs over 2 inches of additional front leg room, and rear-passenger knee and leg room have also been increased by 1.4 inches and 1.3 inches respectively.

Up to 72.4 cubic feet of flexible cargo room provides ample space for anything from luggage and shopping bags to antiques and sports equipment.� The easy-to-operate, fold-down rear seat is split 60:40 so that one or two people can ride in the back, even when the vehicle is loaded with long objects such as bicycles or lumber.� Two convenient options makes loading and unloading easier - a power liftgate and an optional cargo management system.

Mercedes-Benz Safety is Standard

Continuing the Mercedes-Benz commitment to occupant safety, the 2006 M-Class comes standard with two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger, curtain side airbags and adaptive belt tensioners and belt force limiters for all seating positions.� A rollover sensor can activate the belt tensioner and curtain airbags if the vehicle senses an imminent rollover.

�ALL-NEW 2006 BMW 3 SERIES AND ENHANCED 2006 7 SERIES MAKE N. A. DEBUT AT THE N. Y. INT’L AUTO SHOW

Prices Announced for 2006 3 Series, 7 Series as well as 5 Series

New York, NY - March 23, 2005 (WDB) . ... The all-new 2006 3 Series and the enhanced 2006 7 Series make their North American debut at the New York International Auto Show. Prices were announced for the 2006 3 Series and 7 Series as well as the 2006 5 Series, including all-wheel drive models. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices for the 325i and 330i sedans are $30,995 and $36,995 respectively. Prices for the 750i with its new 360 hp V8 begin at $71,195. Prices for the 2006 5 Series, which feature all-new inline six cylinder engines and available all-wheel drive start from $42,495 for the 525i. The 530xi Sports Wagon has an MSRP of $51,795. All prices include destination and handling. All of these early 2006 models will be available beginning this May.

The all-new BMW 3 Series:
The quintessential sport sedan blends cutting edge technology with remarkable value

The fifth generation BMW 3 Series will yet again improve and refine a concept BMW pioneered more than forty years ago - the sport sedan. The new 3 Series continues to offer style and quality combined with a unique combination of performance, practicality and European luxury in a compact package.

Above all, the 3 Series is renowned for how it drives. Since the beginning, the 3 Series has always been remarkably agile and pleasurable to drive, without compromising comfort and everyday usability. Though many have tried and are still trying, no one else quite knows how to match this constellation of attributes.

The new 2006 3 Series will arrive this May with two models available, the 325i and 330i. Two inline six-cylinder engines continue a 3 Series tradition. The all-new 3.0-liter unit in the 330i offers a significant increase in performance. It is rated at 255-horsepower at 6600 rpm, a 30-horsepower increase over its predecessor and has 220 lb-ft of torque at 2750 rpm. The 325i will now also feature a new 3.0-liter engine. This engine is rated at 215-horsepower at 6250 rpm and 185 lb-ft of torque at 2750 rpm.

In BMW’s ongoing pursuit of weight reduction, this engine is the first in large-scale series production to use magnesium which, compared to aluminum, is 30 percent lighter. This engine is also the first six-cylinder to use BMW VALVETRONIC. With infinitely variable valve lift in place of the traditional throttle butterfly, this system improves both throttle response and fuel efficiency. Like previous BMW engines which have incorporated VALVETRONIC, the gains are impressive. In the case of the 330i, horsepower increases by 13%, while fuel consumption decreases by as much as 9%, depending on model. This unique technology works in tandem with BMW’s double-VANOS variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust camshafts. The new 330i with manual transmission will accelerate from 0 - 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. Both models will be offered with a choice of a standard six-speed manual transmission or optional six-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission.

The 3 Series will be available with all-wheel drive, features BMW’s xDrive, beginning this October.

The front suspension is enhanced to include BMW’s double-pivot strut design while the rear suspension features a new five-link design. BMW has been able to further capitalize on its Dynamic Stability Control with a number of new features. When brakes risk fading due to heat build up caused by hard use, Brake Fade Compensation automatically reacts by increasing the hydraulic pressure relative to pedal force. When the driver lifts off the accelerator pedal abruptly, Brake Stand-by enables DSC to recognize that sharp braking may be about to occur and applies just enough pressure in the brake system to snug up the pads against the rotors. With Brake Drying, acting on input from the rain sensor the pads are periodically brought up to the rotors - just enough to eliminate any film of water between pads and rotors, but not enough to cause a brake application. Comfort Stop ensures smooth stops by modulating the brakes as the car comes to rest. Start-Off Assistant holds the car on a hill enabling a smooth start
off from rest.

With all this technology, the MSRPs of the 325i and 330i are $30,995 and $36,995 respectively. A typically equipped 325i includes the Premium Package, an automatic transmission, leather upholstery and metallic paint. At $35,645, a typically equipped 2006 325i is only $150 more than its 2005 counterpart and has substantially more equipment. When you factor in the Xenon Adaptive Headlights which are standard on the 2006 330i, that model with Premium Package, automatic transmission and metallic paint is actually $100 less than a similarly equipped 2005 model, again with substantially more equipment..

2006 7 Series:
Design enhancements inside and out are complemented by more power for V8 models

Since its introduction in 2002, the fourth generation 7 Series has proven to be the most successful 7 Series ever. The 2006 7 Series exterior receives subtle but significant refinements. Forward of the windshield, new elements include a larger rendition of BMW’s traditional “kidney” grilles; a new bumper/spoiler ensemble; new headlights and foglights; and a re-contoured hood. The rear bumper’s wraparound tucks in more noticeably at the wheelwell and thus visually emphasizes a 14-mm/0.6-in. wider rear track. Both 750 models have a new standard wheel design, with seven relatively wide spokes reaching right out to the rim. The trunklid is newly shaped while retaining the original’s advantages in terms of aerodynamics and cargo space; the taillights now wrap into the lid, and are accented by a slender bright strip.

The refinements are carried into the interior as well. New climate-control knobs present improved tactile feel to the user, and are trimmed in an elegant new Titanium galvanic material that also appears in other details. The iDrive system’s controller has a new, handier shape and a handsome leather insert on top. Functional enhancements include the audio system’s new hard controls for AM/FM and entertainment source selection; MP3 capability added to the CD changer (standard 760i/Li, optional 750i/Li); and a Bluetooth cellphone interface. Whereas previously the 7 Series came standard with an installed (but also portable) phone, owners will now select their own phone from a list of BMW-approved handheld phones and can keep up with the latest developments in this fast-moving technology while also enjoying standard hands-free calling, auto-dial functions and Voice Command convenience. Encompassing an extensive array of features and functions within its pioneering color-display-and-controller concept, iDrive has
again been refined and made more user-friendly.

The new 750i and 750iL feature a new 4.8-liter VALVETRONIC V8 engine. With 360 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, this represents an increase of 35 horsepower and 30 lb-ft of torque over their predecessors. Although official 0-60-mph acceleration times are little changed at 5.8 seconds, the real story here is more urge virtually anytime the driver presses down on the accelerator pedal, especially at midrange speeds. The 6.0-liter V12 in the 760i and 760Li remains unchanged offering 438 horsepower and 444 lb-ft of torque. Both are mated to a 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic transmission.

The price of the 750i and 750Li are $71,195 and $75,195 respectively. This represents a $600 increase over the previous models. Prices for the 2006 760i and 760Li are $110,695 and $118,095 respectively.

2006 5 Series:
New six-cylinder engines, available all-wheel drive and the return of the Sports Wagon

In only its third model year the latest 5 Series enters the 2006 model year with BMW’s newest generation of inline 6-cylinder engines, available all-wheel drive and the return of the 5 Series Sports Wagon. The 5 Series shares its two 3-liter engines with the new 3 Series. The 525i/xi go from 184 to 215 horsepower while the 530i/xi go from 225 to 255 hp. All models are offered with a 6-speed manual transmission with an available 6-speed STEPTRONIC automatic. The 530i is also available with a 6-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox.

The 5 Series are the first passenger cars that use BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system, which has proven itself in the X3 and X5 Sports Activity Vehicles. xDrive goes beyond the traditional advantages of all-wheel drive to offer the driver an even higher level of stability and traction in all driving situations. While conventional all-wheel drive only responds when the wheels are already spinning, xDrive begins to react even before wheel spin is able to build up. Via an electronically controlled multiple-plate clutch, the flow of power is redistributed within milliseconds between the two axles in the interest of enhanced traction, driving stability and agility.

The 5 Series Sports Wagon returns as the 530xi. Offered only as an all-wheel drive model, the 530xi Sports Wagon offers advantages not only over the Sedans, but also over its predecessor, last offered in 2003. The 530xi abounds with rational design and thoughtful details which include a high-lift tailgate - almost 73 in. head clearance - with Soft Close feature. The tailgate is electrically released from the exterior or interior switch or the remote. The rear window may be opened separately, for convenient loading without opening the tailgate. A power opening and closing feature is included in the Premium Package. Wider than that in the previous Wagon, and with straight, essentially vertical sides, the cargo area offers 17.6 cu ft. of volume up to the tops of the upright rear seats and a maximum of 58.3 cu ft., rear seats folded, cargo loaded to ceiling. The cargo area includes a lockable storage space under the cargo floor, in a tray with adjustable dividers to help secure smaller objects.

Like the Sedans, the Sports Wagon comes standard with a power moonroof; however, the Wagon’s is a dual-panel Panorama Moonroof, a feature also seen in the X3 and X5 Series. With its overall roof opening of 41.9 x 34.8 in., the Panorama concept gives occupants almost the feeling of being in a convertible. The power glass roof consists of two panels, both of which can be tilted up at the rear. The forward, larger panel can also be slid open; together, their glass area is almost 10 square feet. Although the glass is effectively tinted, there is also a power-operated interior shade; a wind deflector rises at the front of the opening to reduce wind buffeting when panels are open. All motions have 1-touch operation, including that of the interior shade.

In addition to other enhancements, Servotronic vehicle-speed sensitive power steering is standard on all models and Adaptive Xenon Headlights are standard on 530i/xi models.

Manufacturer Suggested Retail Prices for the 525i and 530i Sedans are $42,495 and $47,195 respectively. For the all-wheel drive Sedans, the MSRPs are $44,695 for the 525xi and $49,395 for the 530xi. The all-wheel drive 530xi Sports Wagon has an MSRP of $51,795.