Economy improves for Commodore

The Alloytec V6 engine powering Holden’s Commodore Omega and Berlina models has received an upgrade this month that sees fuel savings of up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres for petrol models and an impressive 1.3 litres per 100 kilometres for dual-fuel variants.

Emissions have therefore also decreased assisting the petrol variants listed to achieve the highest Green Vehicle Guide noxious emissions score possible being 8.5 points out of 10 (excludes hybrid electric vehicles). The emission levels meet Euro VI certification, a standard which does not come into effect in Europe until 2014.

“The upgrade to this V6 engine was to enable improved fuel economy and reduced emissions without sacrificing real world performance,” GM Holden Director of Powertrain, Ernie Tamburrini said.

To clarify, fuel consumption of the petrol Commodore sedan is reduced by 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres with Ute and Sportwagon models down by 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

Dual Fuel (LPG) models also see an improve in economy now delivering returns of 14.2 litres per 100km. The vehicle was also recently reduced some $1500.

Private buyers are also eligible for the $2000 government rebate here, meaning the net cost of an LPG Ute would only be $1400 more than its petrol equivalent and only $400 more for the LPG sedan.

The monthly LPG conversion rate will increase in November to meet growing demand. The petrol engine in the Omega and Berlina models delivers peak power of 175kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 325Nm at 2400rpm and is matched with a four-speed automatic transmission. The upgraded Alloytec V6 engine will be standard on all Omega and Berlina Commodore, Sportwagon and Ute variants from November production.

Economy improves for Commodore

The Alloytec V6 engine powering Holden’s Commodore Omega and Berlina models has received an upgrade this month that sees fuel savings of up to 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres for petrol models and an impressive 1.3 litres per 100 kilometres for dual-fuel variants.

Emissions have therefore also decreased assisting the petrol variants listed to achieve the highest Green Vehicle Guide noxious emissions score possible being 8.5 points out of 10 (excludes hybrid electric vehicles). The emission levels meet Euro VI certification, a standard which does not come into effect in Europe until 2014.

“The upgrade to this V6 engine was to enable improved fuel economy and reduced emissions without sacrificing real world performance,” GM Holden Director of Powertrain, Ernie Tamburrini said.

To clarify, fuel consumption of the petrol Commodore sedan is reduced by 0.2 litres per 100 kilometres with Ute and Sportwagon models down by 0.4 litres per 100 kilometres.

Dual Fuel (LPG) models also see an improve in economy now delivering returns of 14.2 litres per 100km. The vehicle was also recently reduced some $1500.

Private buyers are also eligible for the $2000 government rebate here, meaning the net cost of an LPG Ute would only be $1400 more than its petrol equivalent and only $400 more for the LPG sedan.

The monthly LPG conversion rate will increase in November to meet growing demand. The petrol engine in the Omega and Berlina models delivers peak power of 175kW at 6500rpm and peak torque of 325Nm at 2400rpm and is matched with a four-speed automatic transmission. The upgraded Alloytec V6 engine will be standard on all Omega and Berlina Commodore, Sportwagon and Ute variants from November production.

Nissan Makes Versa the Cheapest Car in the U.S. at $9990

Nissan has just announced a new version of its entry level Versa sedan today, along with an MSRP that will make that car the lowest priced in the country—$9990 before destination and handling ($10,685 after).

The new base model Versa replaces the standard 1.8-liter four with a 1.6-liter unit, an engine that produces 107 horsepower and can deliver 34 miles per gallon on the highway (26 city) when paired with the standard five-speed manual transmission. The optional four-speed automatic delivers a slightly lower 26/33 mpg rating.

As you might expect, Nissan has decontented the Versa somewhat to be able to hit that magical four-digit price tag, though the company has yet to detail what, exactly, will come standard on the least expensive car in the U.S. The company does boast that Versa now combines “the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan.” A powerful argument in difficult financial times. Read the full press release below.

Nissan Announces Lowest-Priced New Car in the U.S.*

- New, 2009 Versa Sedan 1.6 Features $,9,990 MSRP, Excellent Fuel Economy, Design, Quality and Reliability; Available at Dealers November 18 -

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new 2009 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.6 model, which features a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $9,990* (excluding Destination and Handling). The new Versa focuses squarely on value and fuel economy, with its standard 107-horsepower DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering responsive performance and a 34 mpg highway fuel economy rating (with the 5-speed manual transmission).

The Versa Sedan 1.6 goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning November 18, 2008.

"Starting under $10,000, this new Versa Sedan 1.6 has the lowest new-car MSRP in the United States," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "It combines the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan. It's our way of saying that in tough economic times, Nissan is here to help."

Since its introduction in 2006, Nissan Versa has enjoyed strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa offers one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment – along with excellent quality, reliability and durability.

The new high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model features a smaller displacement 1.6-liter engine (versus the standard 1.8-liter), standard 5-speed manual transmission and simplified content. It is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the 5-speed manual and 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic.

"The new Versa Sedan 1.6 is another way in which Nissan is taking a leadership role in reassuring consumers that now is a great time to consider a new car," said Carolin.

* Based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,990 for the new, 2009 model year Versa 1.6 Sedan. Claim based on competitive MSRP's in the Lower-Small segment for new, model year 2009 vehicles. MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice. Destination and Handling $695.

Nissan Announces New Consumer Value Opportunities

– Comprehensive Program is Designed to Reassure Budget-Conscious Shoppers; Includes 0% Financing on Key Models and Competitive Leasing Programs –

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new Consumer Value Program designed to let consumers know that Nissan offers a variety of options in today's marketplace. The program includes:

* Zero-percent financing on five Nissan models*
* Competitive leases, including a $199/month lease on the Altima and Rogue**
* A national advertising campaign supporting the program, which utilizes the theme "Nissan Delivers," will launch nationally on Nov. 4th.

"We know that many consumers have done their research, have made the decision to buy a new vehicle, but are concerned about financing and finding the best value," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "We want to let them know that if they need a dependable, high-quality, high-value new car, Nissan can help them out right now – with great leases and great financing options."

The zero-percent financing program includes the popular Nissan Murano, Sentra, Altima, Versa and Rogue.

"The 'Nissan Delivers' program makes good sense for consumers who now can take advantage of zero-percent financing or attractive leases on a number of great Nissan vehicles," said Carolin.

The Nissan Delivers program will feature a $199/month, limited-time lease offer on the 2009 Nissan Altima Sedan and Nissan Rogue crossover SUV.

*0% APR for 36 months. For well-qualified buyers. Offers end 11/30/08.

**Rogue: $2,754 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,555 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Rogue S AWD w/ Splash and Mats subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,505 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

**Altima: $2,759 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,560 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Altima 2.5 S with Xtronic CVT, splash guards, and floor mats is subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,545 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

Nissan Makes Versa the Cheapest Car in the U.S. at $9990

Nissan has just announced a new version of its entry level Versa sedan today, along with an MSRP that will make that car the lowest priced in the country—$9990 before destination and handling ($10,685 after).

The new base model Versa replaces the standard 1.8-liter four with a 1.6-liter unit, an engine that produces 107 horsepower and can deliver 34 miles per gallon on the highway (26 city) when paired with the standard five-speed manual transmission. The optional four-speed automatic delivers a slightly lower 26/33 mpg rating.

As you might expect, Nissan has decontented the Versa somewhat to be able to hit that magical four-digit price tag, though the company has yet to detail what, exactly, will come standard on the least expensive car in the U.S. The company does boast that Versa now combines “the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan.” A powerful argument in difficult financial times. Read the full press release below.

Nissan Announces Lowest-Priced New Car in the U.S.*

- New, 2009 Versa Sedan 1.6 Features $,9,990 MSRP, Excellent Fuel Economy, Design, Quality and Reliability; Available at Dealers November 18 -

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new 2009 Nissan Versa Sedan 1.6 model, which features a starting Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $9,990* (excluding Destination and Handling). The new Versa focuses squarely on value and fuel economy, with its standard 107-horsepower DOHC 16-valve 1.6-liter inline 4-cylinder engine delivering responsive performance and a 34 mpg highway fuel economy rating (with the 5-speed manual transmission).

The Versa Sedan 1.6 goes on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide beginning November 18, 2008.

"Starting under $10,000, this new Versa Sedan 1.6 has the lowest new-car MSRP in the United States," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "It combines the low price of a used car with the dependability, high quality and full factory warranty of every new Nissan. It's our way of saying that in tough economic times, Nissan is here to help."

Since its introduction in 2006, Nissan Versa has enjoyed strong appeal in the marketplace among buyers seeking fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance or roominess. Versa offers one of the highest standard horsepower/torque ratings and the largest interior in the entry-level segment – along with excellent quality, reliability and durability.

The new high-value Versa Sedan 1.6 model features a smaller displacement 1.6-liter engine (versus the standard 1.8-liter), standard 5-speed manual transmission and simplified content. It is also available with a 4-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is rated at 26 mpg city/34 mpg highway with the 5-speed manual and 26 mpg city/33 mpg highway with the 4-speed automatic.

"The new Versa Sedan 1.6 is another way in which Nissan is taking a leadership role in reassuring consumers that now is a great time to consider a new car," said Carolin.

* Based on Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $9,990 for the new, 2009 model year Versa 1.6 Sedan. Claim based on competitive MSRP's in the Lower-Small segment for new, model year 2009 vehicles. MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice. Destination and Handling $695.

Nissan Announces New Consumer Value Opportunities

– Comprehensive Program is Designed to Reassure Budget-Conscious Shoppers; Includes 0% Financing on Key Models and Competitive Leasing Programs –

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (October 31, 2008) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced a new Consumer Value Program designed to let consumers know that Nissan offers a variety of options in today's marketplace. The program includes:

* Zero-percent financing on five Nissan models*
* Competitive leases, including a $199/month lease on the Altima and Rogue**
* A national advertising campaign supporting the program, which utilizes the theme "Nissan Delivers," will launch nationally on Nov. 4th.

"We know that many consumers have done their research, have made the decision to buy a new vehicle, but are concerned about financing and finding the best value," said Brian Carolin, senior vice president, Sales and Marketing, NNA. "We want to let them know that if they need a dependable, high-quality, high-value new car, Nissan can help them out right now – with great leases and great financing options."

The zero-percent financing program includes the popular Nissan Murano, Sentra, Altima, Versa and Rogue.

"The 'Nissan Delivers' program makes good sense for consumers who now can take advantage of zero-percent financing or attractive leases on a number of great Nissan vehicles," said Carolin.

The Nissan Delivers program will feature a $199/month, limited-time lease offer on the 2009 Nissan Altima Sedan and Nissan Rogue crossover SUV.

*0% APR for 36 months. For well-qualified buyers. Offers end 11/30/08.

**Rogue: $2,754 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,555 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Rogue S AWD w/ Splash and Mats subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,505 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

**Altima: $2,759 initial payment required at consummation (includes $2,560 down payment and $199 first month payment). 2009 Altima 2.5 S with Xtronic CVT, splash guards, and floor mats is subject to availability to well qualified lessees through Nissan-Infiniti LT. Leases are subject to credit approval. MSRP of $22,545 includes a destination charge of $695 and excludes tax, title, and license. See your local Nissan dealer for more details.

Comparison Test: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs. Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG vs. Porsche 911 GT2

European Editor Matt Davis tests the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, and the Porsche 911 GT2 in the Italian countryside. Click here to read the full story in Winding Road magazine.

Comparison Test: Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 vs. Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG vs. Porsche 911 GT2

European Editor Matt Davis tests the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4, Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG, and the Porsche 911 GT2 in the Italian countryside. Click here to read the full story in Winding Road magazine.

Lamborghini Establishes New Branch in China

The cold hard truth for western countries is that China is on well on track to becoming the most powerful economy in the world. Acknowledging this fact, Lamborghini decided to establish a new branch in China in the country´s capital city Beijing that will start operations at the beginning of 2009. Currently, the Italian sports carmaker has three dealers located in Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, one in Hong Kong, and another two will be shortly be opened in Chengdu and Qingdao. The company's China sales this year a expected to grow by 186% or from 27 cars in 2007 towards 80 in 2008.

"China has the strongest dynamics of change to undoubtedly become the leading economy in the world. As one of the symbols of European luxury tradition, our products and our brand promise are irrevocably moving into the focus of a growing number of people," said President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A., Stephan Winkelmann.

"The development of wealth and the developing 'savoir-vivre' in China makes it one of the pivotal markets for Lamborghini's future growth. The decision to establish a branch in China illustrates our dedication to opening the potential of this market for Lamborghini. Our new regional office will ensure the presence of the brand and further the prosperity of the corporation on a global scale," he added.