Max Auto Updates - 17/09/2009

BMW X1 Debuts in Frankfurt



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=894

BMW's makeshift track at the 2009 IAA in Frankfurt hosted a number of premiers including the brand's smallest SUV (or SAV) yet. The X1 made its entrance to onlookers and could be seen as the antidote to those massive SUVs seen at the turn of the century.

It is designed as a BMW through and through with signature elements like the kidney grille and the Hofmeister kink" at the C pillar.

The interior features the typical surfboard dash with a driver-bias angle and is stocked with sweet gadgets like a CD player, a rear parking camera in some models, a six-speaker sound system, the new iDrive system and a USB port among others.

Models in the range include the xDrive18d with 105kW and 320Nm, the xDrive23d with 150kW and 400Nm of torque. These are all AWD but RWD options will also be available.

The new X1 goes on sale in the US in 2011 while other markets, notably some in Europe, will get it in early 2010.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Volvo C70 Facelift Drops Top in Frankfurt



http://www.maxauto.co.za/CntView.aspx?CatID=26&CntID=895

The facelift Volvo C70 was part of the Swedish automaker's presentation at the 2009 IAA. Labelled as two cars in one the hard-top C70 features a new front grille, new headlights, more chrome bits and new rear LED lights. Its three-piece hard roof folds neatly into the rear and has a full glass window instead of the cheaper soft transparent plastic found in some convertibles.

The interior was fitted with soft hide seats, exclusive new instruments with gauges and graphics specific to the C70 and a new sleeker instrument panel.

Petrol engine models remain with the 2.4 petrol worth 103kW and 220Nm, the 2.4i with 125kW and 230Nm, and the T5 with a 5-cylinder turbo making 169kW and 320Nm of torque.

Safety, a heavily marketed Volvo trait, is assured through the inflatable curtains on both doors, front seat side-impact airbags and sturdy metal hoops for roll-over situations.