2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class spotted

We spotted the stylish, sharp, powerful hardtop Mercedes-Benz SLK, whose production dates back to 2008.

The 2008 SLK class is a two-passenger roadster that features a powerful retractable hardtop. It also includes bi-xenon headlamps, navigation system, 380-watt surround-sound audio system, glovebox-mounted CD changer, satellite radio, and an Airscarf system that directs heat through vents in the head restraints.

The SLK is powered by a 3.2-litre V6 engine, which produces 218bhp and is capable of reaching a top speed of 245 km/h. The car can do 0-60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is slightly more than a Porsche Boxter S.

The SLK competes with the BMW Z4, Nissan 350Z and Porsche Boxster.

According to Edmunds.com, Mercedes-Benz isn't typically known for building true drivers' cars, but the SLK is an exception. It delivers solid performance in acceleration, braking and handling.

 

 

Toyota MR2 spotted

Spotted the Toyota MR2 on the streets of Bangalore, although it’s old and its production was stopped in 2005 - it looks sweet and small! Take a glimpse at the vehicle and its colours will make you fall in love.

The MR2 packs a 1.8-litre engine which produces 138bhp, giving it the power to cruise down country roads. Furthermore, it is a delight to drive with the roof down.

Generally, MR2 is not a car you can use everyday, but you can go wild occasionally.

Lexus SC 430 – Bangalore

Spotted the Lexus SC 430 Special Edition! The SC 430 luxury convertible was one of the first modern production vehicles to popularize a retractable-hardtop design - Edmunds.com

Under the bonnet is a refined and bullet proof 4.3 litre V8 engine, producing 300hp and can speed up to 150mph and 0-60 in 6 seconds.

The spotted SC 430 featured a retractable aluminium hardtop, all-leather interior with brushed-aluminum accents, navigation screen with folding wood panel.

The coupe can technically seat four when you look at it; however the spacing of the rear seats is limited, and hence, can be utilized for small kids or pets.

Andrew Frankel from The Times said: “The easy conclusion is to say the SC430 is not a bad car, merely that its opponents are better. But I feel disinclined to let it off so lightly. The fact that I’d rather have any rival would make it bad in this book regardless of its actual abilities. And when those abilities are so limited that there are convertibles costing £20,000 less that eclipse it either to look at or to drive (Audi TT Roadster and Porsche Boxster), its real standing is revealed. “

According to Edmunds, the suspension soaked up bumps like a new sponge but the drive just wasn't very entertaining. But as a luxury convertible with a reputation for very good reliability, the SC 430 should serve you well.

However, SC 430 is a pure exotic in India and without doubt will elicit a “wow” expression from the viewer.

New range of engine oils by Escorts Limited

Escorts India Ltd, leading manufacturer of automobile parts like suspension products, engines etc… have launched a new range of engine oils for cars and motorcycles.

The engine oil named 'ESCORTS TRU-GUARD', The synthetic oil uses advanced performance additives keeping the engine clean and preventing dust or sludge, better fuel efficiency, lower emission levels, decreasing maintenance costs and also keeps the engines life longer.

“ESCORTS TRU-GUARD engine oil has been developed using highest quality synthetic ingredients, resulting in unparalleled performance and long-term engine protection. Targeted at passenger cars and motorcycles, the engine oil is designed to provide extended engine life for petrol as well as diesel engines of all makes and generations,” said Vikram Singhal, Executive Director and Business Head for Escorts Engineering Division.

“ESCORTS TRU-GUARD engine oil prevents carbon-build-up in the engine and protects the engine from rust and corrosion, ensuring improved engine performance at low maintenance cost.

With an introductory price of Rs. 230 per liter for petrol four wheeler engines, Rs. 240 for diesel and Rs. 235 per liter for two wheelers, the product will be available across all Escorts dealerships in different quantities taking into account the mass market it has to cater to.

The TRU-GUARD is priced at Rs. 230 and Rs. 240 for Petrol car engine, diesel engine and Rs. 235 for two wheelers.

The company has announced special value-based schemes to encourage sales, under which consumers can participate in lucky draws and win fabulous prizes ranging from Honda UNICORN, Yamaha FRAZER, international trips, Sony LCDs, Philips Home Theatres to even a Tata Nano car.  

Shelby and Hertz Reunite...

Four score and many moons ago (Mid 60s, before I was even thought of), Hertz and Carroll Shelby teamed up to offer a custom Ford Mustang that Hertz could rent to their customers. They joined forces again in 2007, and now they're back, where Shelby offers a 50th anniversary edition rental.

Shelby plans to team up with Hertz to bring a new generation of the Mustang GT-H into the world. Starting with a 412-horsepower Ford Mustang GT (*sighs* Memories...), Shelby will reportedly take the two door beauty and tinker with the engine before applying gold stripes to either a black car or a white one. The details of the new and improved 2012 Shelby GT-H program have yet to finalized, but look out for some hot Mustangs sitting at Hertz lots sooner than you think.

As much as I love a hot rental car, especially if I can gush over one and create a blog post about it, I'm not a fan of Hertz. I never understood why they ask so much for a car rental, where you can get the exact same car at another company. If Shelby only had a word with the owner of Avis at LAX, I would be leaving tire skidmarks on the 110... I'm sure renting that fine specimen would cost at least $400 a day, prices higher in major cities.

P.S. I'm also not a fan of the gold stripe. White gold- yes. Yellow gold- nah.

AN

New Range Rover Evoque will set you back $45,000...

The good folks at Range Rover released the official statement that the brand new 2012 Range Rover Evoque will have the starting price of $44,000 for the five door vehicle, and $45,000 for the coupe. Both prices include destination and delivery.

Range Rover states that the Evoque achieves 28 MPG EPA highway and 19 MPG EPA city. This excellent fuel economy is the result of new efficiency technologies, lightweight materials, and environmentally conscious design.

This vehicle will be sold in 160 countries worldwide with North American deliveries beginning in Fall 2011.

I like the Evoque more than the Range Rover Sport, but I know that the specs don't compare. If I could create an Evoque to have the power that the Sport has, then we can talk... But the odds of that would be slim to none.

Jaguar XF – Bangalore

Spotted the New Jaguar XF today, the coupelike styling luxury sedan provides a unique blend of strong performance and luxurious ride.

The Jaguar XF mirrors modern Britain elegance in India and it is priced at Rs 48,37,000*. Under the hood is a 3.0 Litre AJ V6D GEN III S Engine delivering a sensational sprint of 0-60 in just 6.4 seconds. The interiors of the Jaguar XF are bold with stylish and classy features providing the buyer a prominent choice to own a midsize luxury sport sedan.

The Jaguar XF features a keyless entry and start system, the start button is mounted on the console to awaken the heart of the machine, once the heart is fired up the transmission knob rises up in the center console which is quite neat ergonomics.

Overall, The Jaguar XF is an extremely well-built machine which provides exceptional driving experience.