New BMW X3

Quick Take
* Fuel Economy 15/22 km/l (city/highway)
Available Engines 2.5L I-6, 192 bhp
Available Transmissions 6-speed Manual Transmission (MT)
5-speed Automatic Transmission (AT) with Steptronic

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.

Highlights

Stylish build inside and out.
xDrive feature.
Loaded with safety features.

Pros

Comfortable, roomy interiors.
Offers decent acceleration.
Delivers a smooth ride.

Cons

Off-road ability needs improvement.

Overview

The BMW X3 is a 4-door Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) produced by the German automaker BMW. Based on the BMW 3-Series automobile platform, the X3 is available in a four-wheel drive (4WD) version and a five-seater configuration.

The X3 was launched at the Detroit Auto Show in 2003 but has been brought to India only in 2007. It is available in a single petrol variant, the 2.5Si.

The X3 comes with a basic vehicle warranty and a powertrain warranty of four years or 50,000 miles, and contends with the likes of the Toyota RAV4 and the Nissan X-Trail.

Powertrain & Performance

The 2.5Si derives power from a 2.5-liter In-line six-cylinder (I-6) petrol engine, which generates 192 bhp and 245 Nm of torque. The engine is teamed up with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. However, it can also be coupled with an optional 5-speed automatic transmission with Steptronic.

The suspension system includes a double-joint spring strut front axle and central-arm rear axle. It also comprises front and rear anti-roll bars. Sports suspension without vehicle lowering and Servotronic is optional on the 2.5Si.

Inner-vented disc brakes in the front and outer-vented disc brakes in the rear offer forceful stopping power to the X3. The X3 features xDrive, all-wheel drive system with variable torque distribution.

Build & Styling

The X3 rides high on a wave of style. It measures 4565 mm in length, with a 2795 mm long wheelbase. Its front fascia incorporates black bumpers with integrated fog lamps, ornamental twin-kidney grille with chrome surround and distinct, sleek headlights.

Electrically-adjustable exterior mirrors and a rear window wiper are standard on all X3 variants. Also standard is a body-coloured roof spoiler that incorporates the third brake light. Roof railings are available as optional on the X3, as is a trailer tow hitch with removable ball head that includes trailer stability control. It stands on 17-inch light-alloy wheels.

As for the interiors, it comes standard with cloth upholstery, while leather upholstery is available as optional. It features a standard 60:40 split-and-fold rear bench seat. Manual seat adjustment is standard on the X3, though the option of electric seat adjustment with memory function for the driver's seat is also available. Sport seats and seat heating for driver and passenger are also optional on the 2.5Si.

The 2.5Si is also available with an optional leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear shift-knob. However, it comes standard with a manually-adjustable steering column. A multi-function feature as well as heating for the steering wheel is optional on the 2.5Si.

Some standard interior features present in the X3 are power windows, power door locks, air-conditioning including micro-filter, heat-insulating tinted glass on windows, and cup-holders. Instrument panel in the X3 includes round speedometer and rpm dials, fuel gauge, and coolant temperature gauge.

The option of an automatic air-conditioning system is also available on the 2.5Si. Also available is the option of an electric panorama glass-roof with slide and lift function, which allows the sun to stream in to or the breeze to waft through the cabin. Rain sensor, including automatic headlight activator, is also available as optional on the X3.

The X3 also comes with ample storage options. There are storage compartments in the centre armrest in the rear, the centre console in the front, the dashboard, and all doors. The X3's luggage compartment comes with a capacity of 480-1560 litres. It also features a light in the tail-gate and a partition net for added convenience.

For entertainment, the X3 comes with various options that include a 6-disc CD changer including an MP3 decoder; a HiFi loudspeaker system, and a HiFi system Professional.

A blend of style, comfort, and power, the X3 does not forget to ensure the protection of its occupants. It features bumpers with aluminum impact absorbers in the front and steel impact absorbers in the rear; deformation units at the front and integrated side impact protection in the doors. Door reinforcements offer optimum occupant protection in the event of a side collision.

It also comes standard with airbags, seatbelts, central locking with electronic immobilizer and crash sensor, child seat fastening in the back seat, and flat tyre indicator.

In addition it features Dynamic Stability Control, Automatic Differential Brake (ADB-X), Brake-Force Display, Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), and Hill Descent Control (HDC) to give you complete safety and control over the car on different types of terrains.

ADB-X emulates the function of a differential lock through direct intervention on a specific wheel. The HDC enables the X3 to take steep downhill gradients safely by automatically reducing the car's speed without the driver having to apply brake.

Some optional safety features includes a front and rear Park Distance Control, a child seat fastening in the front passenger seat, and an alarm system with remote control.)

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New Volkswagen Passat

Quick Take

* Fuel Economy 6.0/10.0 km/l (city/highway)
Available Engines 2.0L lnline-4 turbo diesel, 140 bhp
Available Transmissions 6-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)
6-speed Sportronic Automatic (AT)

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.

Highlights

Top-notch technology.
Two-zone temperature control.
Electronic stabilization program (ESP) for better safety.

Pros

Luxurious interiors.
Excellent ride and handling.
Two-stage front airbags.

Cons

Only one engine option available.

Overview

The Volkswagen group (Wolfsburg, Germany) is one of the world's leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. It is now entering the Indian market with Passat, a luxury sedan.

The Volkswagen Passat is a thoroughly engineered, full-sized diesel saloon that offers class-leading comfort, performance, and safety. With its elegant design and stylish appearance, the Passat will definitely stand out in the crowd of luxury sedans lining the Indian market. Passat has acquired the highest rating of five-stars by the NCAP in Europe for occupant protection during crash testing.

The new Passat is designed on a stretched version of the PQ45 platform used by the new Golf. Known as the PQ46 on the Passat, its 2.7-metre wheelbase is almost as long as that of the Accord or Camry. The new Passat comes with a more efficient use of space and also uses a transversely-mounted engine and an independent rear suspension.

The Passat is available in two variants - DSG and DSGS, which are offered in front-wheel-drive configurations. Both are powered by a 2.0-litre TDl lnline-4 turbo diesel engine. The top competitors of the Passat include the BMW 3-Series and the Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Volkswagen is planning to add more choices/variants to the Passat depending on the response to the launch in India.

Powertrain & Performance

The DSG and DSGS variants receive a 2.0L TDI diesel engine that generates 140 bhp @ 4000 rpm and maximum torque of 320 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm. The DSG teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission while the DSGS is mated to a 6-speed Sportronic automatic transmission which gives a sportier feel and is smoother in comparison. Acceleration is sporty and active. The six-speed automatic transmission provides seamless acceleration and a sport mode 'tiptronic' transmission offers an exhilarating driving experience.

A power assisted rack and pinion steering is quick and responsive. The Passat now uses a transversely-mounted engine and an independent rear suspension setup for improved ride and handling dynamics. The Passat receives a spring strut front suspension and a four-link independent rear suspension which is retuned for Indian bumpy roads. The ride quality on hilly regions is quite pleasant and smooth.

Build & Styling

The Passat is sleek and sports a graceful look. The massive V-shaped Volkswagen grille which is stylishly designed in attractive chrome grabs the attention at first sight. The front is also adorned with rectangular-shaped headlamps that give the car an eagle-like intense gaze. High-tech LED rectangular-shaped tail-lamps give the rear a bold appearance. The Passat rides on 16" alloy wheels with 215/55R16 front tyres and 215/55R16 rear tyres.

The interiors exude style and luxury. The seats are large and comfortable with adequate leg room and shoulder room. The design of the dash is striking. The instrumentation cluster resembles an Audi A8 design cluster where the dials and displays are placed directly into satin-finished metal bezels. The Passat comes with an electromechanical parking brake, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, leather seating, two-zone climate control, cup holders, and an audio system with an AM/FM radio, CD player, and MP3 player.

The Passat is armed with various safety features that include cruise control, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), central locking, a remote keyless entry, an engine immobilizer, dual-stage airbags, and an anti-theft alarm system.

New BMW 3 Series

Quick Take

* Fuel Economy 7.2/10.6 kmpl (city/highway)
Available Engines 2.0L 136 bhp Inline-4 petrol
2.5L 218 bhp Inline-6 petrol
2.0L 156 bhp Inline-4 diesel
2.0L 169 bhp Inline-4 diesel
Available Transmissions 6-speed Automatic Transmission (AT)

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.

Highlights

Rear Wheel Drive (RWD)
World-class steering and brake components
New double pivot suspension

Pros

Brilliant handling
Good value for money
Ample safety features

Cons

Costs more than its competitors

Overview

BMW raises the bar on its 3-Series benchmark sedan for this year. Renowned for its blend of engineering, technological advancements and brilliant performance, the BMW 3-Series is one of the most respected sport-sedans on the roads today.

The new BMW 3-Series sedan is available in three trims: 320i, 325i, 320d and the latest '320d highline'. Choosing one over the other is a question of engine, power and price. The car is now bigger, faster and more fuel-efficient. Innovative technology marks the debut lineup: new exterior and interior styling, powerful engines, 6-speed Automatic Transmission and a newly-developed double pivot suspension.

Top competitors include Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. The BMW 3-Series costs more than its competitors do, but always manages to stay a step ahead in the compact sports-luxury class. The 320d highline variant is priced a lack more than the regular 320d variant. The 3-Series still remains the standard when it comes to vehicle engineering, luxurious interiors and outstanding handling.

Powertrain & Performance

The BMW 3-Series has always delivered an impressive balance between ride and handling. The sedans accelerate more quickly, stop shorter and turn with more lateral grip, redefining that mix of rear-wheel drive, great steering feel and a perfect balance between the front and rear axles.

The new BMW 3-Series suspension has double-joint aluminium control arms and a five-link independent system in the rear. BMW 3-Series' electrically-operated active steering is more responsive than the conventional rack-and-pinion steering. The 320d highline's engine is the most powerful of the line-up delivering an impressive 169 bhp. Hefty anti-lock brakes provide impressive stopping power. The brilliance of the BMW 3-series is in its handling and control, enhanced by superior technology in the suspension, steering, tyres and brakes. With a road feel that few others can match, an engine that loves to rev and electronic wizardry, the 3-series simply feels rock-solid, adding up to a truly exhilarating driving experience.

True to the BMW tradition, the components of driving -- acceleration, shifting and cornering -- perform impressively, giving the person behind the wheel maximum driving pleasure. The 3 Series' power matches its ability to hold a curve while muscular brakes provide impressing stopping power. The 320d Highline is equipped with the famous iDrive function that works as a control system for the car. In a class increasingly dominated by front-wheel drive, the typical BMW aficionado will appreciate the amazing technology built into the rear-wheel drive and automatic transmissions. Bottom-line, no matter how fast you go, you will have fun driving this car.

Build & Styling

The sporty design, that distinguishes the BMW 3-Series, carries the trademark double-kidney grille and a more rounded, brawny appearance. Clear-lens xenon swivel headlights wrap around corners emphasising the car's width. Four lines sweep back to the trunk lid, defining the rocker panels and doors. Traditional L-shaped red taillight lenses and chrome-tipped dual exhaust outlets bring up the rear.

Cabin interiors are vintage BMW, with emphasis on driver comfort. Build-quality is exceptional, seats are supportive and the dash has simple, neat analog gauges. All the trims come well-equipped with a multi-functional steering wheel, green strip windscreen, electric seat adjustment with memory function for driver seat, fog lights, automatic air-conditioning, car telephone preparation, six-CD changer, bad road package and hot climate version. The interiors are adorned with fine wood trim and leather upholstery.

Every model comes with four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, stability control and dynamic brake control. Other safety features include front side-impact airbags and head curtain airbags for the front and rear.

Audi A8

In many parts of the world Audi is by far taking the lead from its top class competitors like Mercedes Benz and BMW. The 2008 Audi A8 is definitely in a different league and goes above any traditional luxury. This car has been upgraded from the A8 that was first brought out back in 1994. It was then the first car in the world to have been built on an aluminum platform, known as the Audi Space Frame (ASF). The A8 for 2008 has been updated to improve the suspension of the vehicle, the soundproofing, the steering as well as technology offering of the flagship model.

There are four different versions available in the Audi A8 model. It is available in A8, A8 L, A8 L W12 and then there is the S8. All of these models have the same chassis except for any of the "L" models as they have an extra 5-inch wheelbase, which results in passengers in the rear gaining extra room.

The Audi A8 and the A8 L are available in a V8 engine that is a luxury full size sedan. It comes standard with:

• Valcona leather seats

• dashboard inlays are both aluminum and wood

• front seats are heated and are power adjustable

• xenon headlamps

• voice controlled DVD navigation

Both models have electronic shock absorption control with air suspension, and they come standard with 18-inch alloy rims.

The Audi A8 L W12 is a 12-cylinder and has a 450-hp W12 engine and is only available with a long wheel base platform. This particular model comes standard with more luxury features:

• rear power seating

• side and rear power sunshades

• rear passenger control their temperature

• insulated glass in the doors for all doors which reduces any noise levels

This model has the same suspension design as the A8 as well as the A8 L but it comes standard with 19-inch alloy rims.

All these A8 models have been built with ASF. The use of the old steel chassis is now being replaced by the use of hybrid-welded laser-MIG aluminum. It is used for the castings, the panels and the profiles. With the car being built in aluminum, the Audi A8 model is now as much as several hundred pounds lighter than it would be if constructed in steel. By using the ASF the A8 has got a chassis more rigid than before, the vehicle handling is better, the crash performance has improved and to top it off the fuel economy is far better.

For the 2008 models there is a choice of three different engines. The Audi A8 and the A8 L both have a 4.2 liter V8 engine with 325 lb. Ft. of torque and 350 hp. The Audi A8 L W12 has a 6 liter W12 engine with 420 hp and 428 lb. Ft. of torque. All these models come standard with the Audi quattro's four wheel drive and include the automatic transmission which is a 6 speed Tiptronic that have both Sport Program and DSP features.

The Air Suspension is Audi's very own design and it balances the comfort of the ride with great sporty handling. This system uses air sprung struts that are controlled by electromagnetic valves that adjust each shock absorber. It is left up to the driver to either leave it in total automatic mode or he can select one of four suspension settings for different ride heights.

Technology of this vehicle

Audi has added "side assist". This is a system based on radar that monitors any blind spots and will let the driver know if there is any other traffic near.

The "lane assist" will let the driver know if the vehicle is moving from the lane without him realizing. The driver is warned by the steering wheel vibrating.

You can't go wrong with the entertainment system in the 2008 A8. It comes standard with a BOSE surround sound 12 speaker system with a satellite radio that is capable of WMA/MP3 playback. Or you can go for the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system that has a 6 disc CD changer.

Safety Features

Both driver and passenger are protected by front and knee air bags. There are air bags mounted on the sides for additional protection that are fitted both for front and rear passengers. There is Tethers and Lower Anchorage so the Children are safe, this feature is standard in the A8 model, and so is the monitoring system of the tire pressure. The vehicle also comes equipped with an anti-theft alarm system.

Price

The cost of the 2008 Audi A8 models range from $70,680 to $120,100.

This model has safety, technology as well as class altogether in one package that makes this vehicle a very attractive model for this year.