Auto 2010: 2010 Lexus ES350
March 16th, 2010
For the 2010 model year, Lexus ES350 enters with a few exterior styling upgrades like a front bumper with redesigned lower air intakes and integrated fog lamps as well as a new grill and surround for the front end, while the sides are dressed up with new chrome moldings and for 2010, the ES will be available in a few new exterior colors.
Lexus has placed a similar version of their class leading 3.5 Liter V6 under the hood, which in case delivers a maximum output of 272 HP at 6,200 rpm and a peak of 254 lb-ft of torque at 4,700 rpm. Due to the sedan’s front wheel drive layout, the transverse mounted V6 engine is mated to a six-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission for more fuel efficient shifts.
The 2010 ES350 rides on a newly designed set of split five spoke 17 inch aluminum alloy wheels, while the new color options include: Truffle Mica, Peridot Mica, Satin Cashmere Metallic and Cerulean Blue Metallic.
Interior, the Lexus ES350 is upgraded with new steering wheel controls, more trim options than before as well as new infotainment packages that include a new hard disc drive (HDD) navigation system.
Auto 2011: 2011 BMW 5-Series Touring
March 15th, 2010
Bavarian maker has unveiled the official details on the station wagon version for the sixth generation 5-series. Of course, there is no news if the new 5-Series Touring will ever be offered on the US market or not.
Later this year, the new model will go on sale with a choice of two straight-six petrol engines as well as a four-cylinder and a six-cylinder diesel. The base version, BMW 523i Touring is powered by a straight-six engine developing a total of 204 bhp, while in the 535i Touring the output is raised to 306 hp.
As for the diesel versions, the 520d Touring is powered by a four-cylinder turbo diesel engine that develops 184 hp and the 530d Touring features a straight six-cylinder diesel with a 245 hp output. All engines are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The new 5-Series Touring will offer a long list of features: BMW Connected Drive comprises, inter alia, a Parking Assistant, Surround View, collision warning with brake activation in conjunction with Active Cruise Control, Lane Change Warning, Lane Departure Warning, Speed Limit Info, High-beam Assistant, BMW Night Vision with detection of persons as well as Head-up Display.