June 2006 - Automobile News

BMW 3 Series Named World Car of the Year 2006

Mini Challenge Website Wins First Place in Sports Category for Bahrain Web Awards

Euro Motors Introduces BMW Service Inclusive & Repair

Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit With Mitsubishi Nativa

BMW Group Middle East First Four Months Sales Up 17%

Unsurpassed Quality Services at Zayani Motors

New Spare Parts Outlet… now open in Manama

BMW launches connected drive concept in UAE

BMW launches ConnectedDrive concept in UAE – 2

About ConnectedDrive

Zayani Leasing wins tender

Mitsubishi Canter Records Highest Sales
Zayani Motors Presents Krazy Kevin a Krazy Car
Mitsubishi Lancer 2006 …A spirited performance
Zayani Leasing - The Smart Choice
   
   
More news in other sections
   
 

BMW 3 Series Named World Car of the Year 2006

The new BMW 3 Series has been named ‘2006 World Car of the Year’ at a presentation during the New York International Auto Show 2006.

A jury of 46 international automotive journalists reviewed every new car available around the world and, in an exhaustive selection process, narrowed them down to three – the BMW 3 Series, Mazda MX-5 and Porsche Cayman S. At the ceremony, the 3 Series was awarded the prestigious World Car of the Year honour thanks to its balance of ride, handling, performance and interior space.

“The BMW 3 Series has been one of the world’s most enduringly popular cars since BMW pioneered the sports sedan concept more than 40 years ago” said Guenther Seemann, Managing Director, BMW Middle East.

“Although in this region we see an inverted pyramid sales pattern with the larger BMW 5 Series and BMW 7 Series as our top sellers, the BMW 3 Series is by no means eclipsed. In 2005 the 3 Series represented 17% of the total number of BMW’s sold in the Middle East, it is a leader in its segment and the awards it has won both in the Middle East and internationally are proof of this status,“ Seemann added.

The BMW 3 Series was voted Best Medium Car at the Auto Car Middle East awards in December last year. The award preceded a number of UK awards bestowed upon BMW’s new 3 Series model range.

 In January 2006, the BMW 320d ES was awarded the ‘What Car?’ Car of the Year 2006 accolade as well as the Compact Executive category. At the awards, Steve Fowler, Group Editor of ‘What Car?’ commented: “The BMW 3 Series emerged as a clear winner. We’d expected BMW’s Compact Exec contender to be good, but we didn’t expect it to be this good. No other car is as great in so many ways as the 3 Series.”

  The ‘What Car?’ Car of the Year award came at the same time as BMW scooped a clutch of top honours at the Fleet Excellence Awards – the voting of which is drawn from the 30,000 plus readers of Fleet Week and Fleet Management. Proving that BMW offers products that appeal to the business user as well as private buyers, the 3 Series won the coveted ‘User Chooser Car of the Year’ overall prize alongside its category win.

 The top honours given to BMW by the World Car of the Year jurors, What Car? And Fleet News and Fleet Management come hot on the heels of a host of other awards. Since its launch in March 2005, both Auto

Express and Test Drive magazines have awarded the 3 Series their Best Compact Executive car of 2005.

Top
 


Mini Challenge Website Wins First Place in Sports Category for Bahrain Web Awards

Euro Motors’, www.minichallenge.com.bh, won the first prize at the Bahrain Web Awards in the Sports category held in Ritz Carlton on 20th May 2006.  The event was held under of patronage of Sheikh Khalifa bin Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The award was accepted by Mr. Davendra Sudha, Group IT Manager on behalf of Euro Motors.

 “The Mini Challenge website was a team effort and the award signified the hard work by Euro Motors Marketing Manager, Tarek El Habbal and Trade Arabia’s Web Service Manager, Ajay Kumar. The website made with the idea to promote the Mini Challenge events in Bahrain and hence www.minichallenge.com.bh site was formed,” said Mr. Davendra Sudha.

The website provides full information on the event, schedules, news, results and on how to participate in the race.  The site is a central point of providing information to the participating team for rules and various race related communications thru a secured log in facility.

The competition was stiff as there were a variety of good websites in the sports category. The websites were judged by 11 member panel of IT experts, academicians and professionals in the Web artistry field. 
 

Top
 


Euro Motors Introduces BMW Service Inclusive & Repair
New maintenance service programme launched for BMW drivers in Bahrain

Euro Motors, the exclusive importer for BMW Group cars and motorcycles in Bahrain, recently announced their new Service Inclusive & Repair (BSI&R) as a standard feature on BMW purchases, to cover the cost of service, maintenance and repair work. The BMW Service Inclusive & Repair package is valid for a period five years, and customers have the option to extend their existing package for an additional cost.
 
BMW Service Inclusive & Repair covers servicing and maintenance work plus original BMW parts, oil and labour. In addition to an oil change, the work covers a vehicle check and standard services as determined by the maintenance schedule. These include service of air filters, micro filters, fuel filters and spark plugs as well as changing the brake fluid. Repairs to worn parts, provided they are not caused by driver negligence, such as replacement of brake discs, brake linings and the clutch, plus replacement of the windscreen wiper blades, are also included.

 Zayed Al Zayani, Managing Director, Euro Motors said,“We at Euro Motors are pleased to announce the launch of this new BMW programme. We are committed to working with customers on an individual basis to ensure that the car they select and the Service

Inclusive & Repair plan meet their needs. Through this programme, we hope to make driving away from our showroom in a BMW that much easier for our valued customers.” Guenther Seemann, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East added, “We are constantly developing and investing in new products and services that further enhance the ownership and driving experience for our customers. In the past years we have introduced a variety of products that provide piece of mind, ease of ownership, safety, and hassle free service. Customers can now enhance the residual value of their BMW cars and avoid service, maintenance and repair costs with this creative and flexible new programme.”

 In addition to the maintenance work provided, customers can insure against the costs of unexpected repairs in the long term, protecting themselves against unpleasant surprises. The following terms, combined with different kilometres travelled or age of car can range from three years 60,000 km and up to six years 150,000 km, whichever is reached first.

 All the service packages can be transferred to the next owner when the vehicle is sold – thus helping to maintain the value of the car and enhancing chances of a good re-sale price. The BMW Service Inclusive programme is international, which means the services can be accessed at any BMW Group authorized dealer in any country.


Top


Unleash Your Adventurous Spirit With Mitsubishi Nativa

The Mitsubishi Nativa from Zayani Motors is an all terrain 4 WD SUV that combines unparalleled utility, luxury, sportiness, safety and spaciousness.

Zayani Motors is now offering an exceptional yet exciting package where customers can own a brand new Nativa starting at 7995/- or lease one with a leasing price starting at just BD 215/- a month. With this promotion customers can also get a free 42”LG Plasma TV with their new car. The offer is valid until 15th July, 2006 or while stocks lasts.

Sporty yet urban, the new Mitsubishi Nativa turns every drive into an inspirational experience due to its effortless power, total control and elegant comfort.

The Nativa's advanced V6-3.0 litre ECI – MULTI electronic multi-point fuel injection engine provides impressive power and torque with remarkable fuel economy. Equipped with INVECS II (Intelligent & Innovative Vehicles Electronic Control System) 4 speed automatic transmission, the new Nativa provides you with the full range of driver enjoyment, safely, easily and comfortably.

Advanced front and rear suspensions take you where you want to go and front disc brakes bring you safely to a halt when you get there.

As for safety, the Mitsubishi Nativa has been fully equipped to handle any emergency.  Its comprehensive array of sophisticated safety features includes a highly rigid body, SRS airbags and much more.

Rise to your expectations this spring and obtain the best Mitsubishi deals from Zayani Motors, the Kingdom's exclusive dealer for Mitsubishi Motors.


Top


BMW Group Middle East First Four Months Sales Up 17%
UAE and KSA Markets Driving Growth

Dubai, UAE. BMW Group Middle East has achieved double-digit growth in the first four months of 2006 with deliveries to customers in the region up by 17% year on year.Retail sales of BMW Group vehicles were 4,630 units in the period January to April with the BMW 5 series, 7 series and 3 series the most popular models.
The UAE and Saudi Arabian markets drove the excellent sales growth. AGMC, in the UAE, was the highest volume dealer in the region with 1,000 units sold compared to 830 units sold in the same period last year, followed by Saudi Arabia with 946 units sold with 16% growth than the previous year. 

Abu Dhabi Motors also achieved excellent growth with sales rising by 25% to 665 units. Pakistan is the fastest growing market in this region, with sales accelerating ahead by 155%, compared to the same period in 2005.

 In the Gulf Cooperation Council region, Oman witnessed the highest growth in sales, delivering 67% more vehicles than the first four months of 2005, followed by Qatar, 56% up.

 BMW 7 series saw the highest growth of any BMW vehicle, withy a 70% increase on the first four months of 2005. BMW Group Middle East sold 25% more BMW 5 Series and 9% more BMW 6 Series during the first four months of 2006 than during the first quarter of 2005.

“BMW Group Middle East promised double digit growth in 2006 and the excellent sales results for the first four months of this year show that we are keeping that promise,” said Guenther Seemann, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East.

 “BMW Group Middle East is seeing continuous growth in the region; nearly all markets in the Middle East have achieved higher results in the first four months of 2006. The outlook for 2006 is promising; we have the right partners in place who are constantly developing and investing heavily in the business to provide customers with the ultimate driving experience.

 “There is a strong demand for premium products and premium services in the Middle East, and as a result the region’s premium car segment is growing much faster than anywhere else in the world. So, we see a very bright future ahead for the remainder of 2006.” Concluded Seemann.

 BMW Group Middle East and the importer network are making substantial investments in the region during 2006. Five new models and many new engine variants will be introduced during 2006, including the highly anticipated Z4 Coupe, Z4 M Coupe and the 3 Series Coupe.

 In the UAE, Abu Dhabi Motors will begin the multi-million dollar expansion of the UMM Al Nar showroom and aftersales facility. AGMC will also embark on the expansion of their existing showroom, doubling its size.

 In Saudi Arabia, US$ 10million is being invested in a brand new, state-of-the-art aftersales facility, and in Oman new sales and aftersales facilities will be built in Salalah, Buraimi and Sohar.

 Internationally, BMW Group sales increased considerably in the first three months of 2006. The number of BMW, MINI and Rolls-Royce vehicles sold rose by 11% to 447,819 units, setting the company on course for another record-breaking year.


Top


Unsurpassed Quality Services at Zayani Motors

Well-equipped modern service workshops compliment Zayani Motors commitment to customer satisfaction. Manned by qualified and highly skilled technicians, Zayani Motors is fully geared to deliver quality after sales services to all their customers.

 Through the call center, customers can obtain information, report a malfunction or ask for assistance. They also have the opportunity to express their suggestions, concerns and queries, which will be immediately answered by one of the professional agents handling the call, thus ensuring optimum customer satisfaction.

 With a dedicated after-sales team, a professional service center and fixed ‘open and honest’ service menu pricing, Zayani Motors has consolidated its position as one of the most innovative dealerships in the Kingdom that offers value added packages and excellent customer service.

 Zayani Motors now boasts an all new 'Express Delivery' service where customers can order parts and have them delivered at their door step in case of unavailability at any of the outlets they visit.

 To make life easier, customers have the flexibility to trade in their old cars of any make or model for the latest and newest Mitsubishi model. In addition to ZM’s flexible 15-day ‘hassle-free’ exchange period, customers can also take advantage of the ‘buy back guarantee’ feature that provides them with an easy option to sell their car whenever they wish to do so.

 With respect to ZM’s added-value programs, Zayani Motors offers their customers an exclusive membership for the Diamond Loyalty Scheme which entitles them for special discounts on parts, accessories and labor charges, 24 hour free recovery service, guaranteed same day delivery of service and routine maintenance jobs, free evaluation for trade-ins and much more.

 Zayani Motors also offers their customers a Diamond Lifetime Warranty (1,000,000 Kms or more) for Mitsubishi car owners who carry out regular service and maintenance at Zayani Motors’fully equipped service centers. Customers who qualify for this privilege enjoy a lifetime warranty on their vehicles’ engine and transmission components.

 Besides the 1,000,000 kms or more Warranty, Zayani Motors is the first Japanese cars distributor in Bahrain to move to 10,000 kms service intervals. Customers can now enjoy the convenience of driving 10,000 kms before each service instead of the traditional 5,000 kms thereby reducing long run cost. Operating 5 well equipped Spare Parts outlets, with their showrooms in Ma’meer open 7 days a week, including a second dealership operating in Arad, Zayani Motors is one of those dealers who always come up with creative ideas and services to maintain customer loyalty.

 
Top


New Spare Parts Outlet… now open in Manama

Zayani Motors, the kingdom’s exclusive dealer for Mitsubishi Motors recently opened their all new and innovative Spare Parts Showroom in Manama.

Conveniently situated in the heart of the capital with convenient parking for their customers, the new spacious showroom aims at providing easy access and convenience to all Zayani Motors clients.

“On this occasion, we are going to offer our loyal customers special discounts on select service items.” said Mr. Mohamed Sabra, Marketing Manager at Zayani Motors.

Now available in all parts outlets is the all new 'Express Delivery' service where customers can order parts and have them delivered at their door step in case of unavailability at any of the outlets they visit.
“Well-equipped modern service workshops compliment Zayani Motors commitment to customer satisfaction. Manned by qualified and highly skilled technicians, Zayani Motors team delivers quality after sales services to all their customers," Mr. Sabra further added.

Overall Zayani Motors boost 5 welle-quipped Spare Parts outlets, including the Ma'amer and Arad premises, which provide impeccable customer service and MMC original parts and accessories.


Top
 


BMW launches connected drive concept in UAE  with first Mid East in car email service
BMW Online service available with 5, 6 and 7 Series cars

BMW Group today announced the launch of its innovative BMW ConnectedDrive concept in the UAE, enabling customers, for the first time in the Middle East, to access Emails while they are in their car.

 Available from March, initially in the new 5, 6 and 7 Series, BMW ConnectedDrive offers E-mail services in the car. Users will be able to read and reply to their E-mails using the BMW Online portal, accessed through the BMW Professional Navigation system and built-in car telephone. Messages can be displayed either on the front cockpit navigation screen or rear seats screen.

 After inserting their Etisalat mobile phone chip into the car phone, the E-mail service can be accessed with a local call. Utilising the iDrive controller, fitted to all new 5, 6 and 7 Series cars, customers log on to their personal, unique passwordprotected BMW Online email account and address book. E-mails from other business or private E-mail accounts can also be forwarded to the users’ BMW Online mail box for reading and answering.

 “Another first for BMW, BMW ConnectedDrive is not just some kind of new system, but rather an overriding, all-round and truly convincing concept,” said Robert Bailey- McEwan, Managing Director, BMW Group Middle East. “With BMW ConnectedDrive, BMW is making a significant, far-reaching contribution to the improvement of mobility.

 “The concept offers everything required to interconnect the needs of the environment, the optimisation of transport as a whole, the maximisation of safety on the road and that sheer driving pleasure so typical of BMW.

Top
 


BMW launches ConnectedDrive concept in UAE – 2

Using their BMW Online login name and password users of the service will also be able to access their BMW Online email account from their business or home computer or mobile phone.

Although the service will initially be limited to the receiving and sending of emails, BMW Group says the service can easily be expanded to include third-party supplied information such as hotel and restaurant guides and news.

 “We wish to bring the driver out of his isolation, giving him access to all the information he finds important or desirable,”said Bailey-McEwan. “BMW ConnectedDrive, bringing all the necessary systems and features together, is the key to reaching this goal.You might, therefore, say that BMW ConnectedDrive is a kind of virtual co-driver giving the driver the right information, rightly processed at the right time.”

BMW Online was launched in Germany in 2001 and the UK in 2003. The UAE is only the third country in the world to which BMW has introduced BMW Online. 

For further information, please contact: Matt Jones, Acting Corporate Communications Manager, BMW Group Middle East.

Top


About ConnectedDrive

Notwithstanding all its technical potentials, BMW ConnectedDrive seeks to achieve a sensible, target-oriented balance, combining the strengths of the driver with those of the car’s technical systems. BMW ConnectedDrive unites all activities within BMW related to the intelligent integration of driver, car and surroundings.

The idea, quite simply, is that each player should make the best possible contribution. While in the past interaction of the driver, the car and the environment was usually left up to the driver himself and his ability to adjust to different situations, BMW ConnectedDrive now opens up new perspectives. The objective is to give the driver as much information as desired and required, providing this information individually and ergonomically for optimum results.

Making life easier and not more difficult through the assistance principle, BMW ConnectedDrive is thus able to support the driver and enhance the overall standard of safety and comfort on the road. The driver nevertheless remains the key factor in all cases, retaining full responsibility for all driving manoeuvres. Precisely this is why all features of BMW ConnectedDrive are merely options made available to the driver, giving him freedom of choice he may use at his discretion.

The bottom line, therefore, is that BMW ConnectedDrive offers an even higher standard of sheer driving pleasure in the ultimate driving machine.


Top


Zayani Leasing wins tender

Zayani Leasing has just delivered a fleet of 106 Mitsubishi vehicles comprising of 7 Pajero, 47 Outlander and 52 L200 pick up to the Ministry of Electricity & Water.

 While appreciating the quality & efficient services of Zayani Leasing Mr.Hussain Abdul Wahab said that “Zayani Leasing is one company that is unique in their services that meets and exceeds all expectations of the Ministry of Electricity & Water.

We are quite happy and in fact impressed by the high levels of service standards we receive from Zayani Leasing, especially they are always easily accessible 24hrs a day and that is what exactly we are looking at”commended Mr.Hussain.


Top
 


Mitsubishi Canter Records Highest Sales

Zayani Motors, the Kingdom's exclusive dealer for Mitsubishi Motors and Mitsubishi Fuso Truck & Buses Corp (MFTBC), witnessed an increase in record sales of Canter trucks during the month of May 2006.

The Canter is a popular truck, redesigned stylishly and packed with the latest technology available in the light-duty trucking industry. Canters have proven themselves in the market in terms of durability, low maintenance requirements, strength of vehicle, payload capability. Compared to others in its category, Canter trucks enjoy a higher payload capacity that goes up to 6 tonnes.

“I haven’t heard a single complaint about our canters since 1975. Canters define reliability and performance, and today when people think trucks they think Canter,” said Mr. Mirza Ali, Senior Commercial Sales Executive, Zayani Motors.

The Canter for the Middle East & Africa region comes with custom-made specifications for the Gulf Cooperation Council markets. Bahrain has proved to be one of the highest selling markets for Canter trucks in the Middle East with respect to its size and population.

‘The Canter is an innovative vehicle that offers reliability, safety, comfort and value for money. With such a competitive product, Zayani Motors further consolidated its position as one of the best auto dealers in the Kingdom especially as Canters have always incorporated significant improvements compared to other models, thus presenting a true shift of focus towards the driver and driving experience,’ stated Desmond Oosthuezin , Zayani Motors General Manager.

As an integral part of the largest commercial vehicle manufacturer in the world, MFTBC is better positioned than ever to master its current challenges in Japan and to compete in the increasingly competitive global truck and bus market.
 

Top
 


Zayani Motors Presents Krazy Kevin a Krazy Car

Zayani Motors, the exclusive dealers of Mitsubishi Motors presented Krazy Kevin, one of Radio Bahrain’s most popular DJs and TV Presenters, with a dazzling new Mitsubishi Grandis.

Krazy Kevin’s brand new ‘Krazy car’ stands out with its unique bold look and attractive ‘Krazy Kevin’ inscription.

“Lots of thanks to Zayani Motors for their continued sponsorship. “I’ve had my multi-coloured Lancer for 2 years, and now I’ve come back from holidays to find Zayani Motors had a big surprise for me. A brand new Grandis! Now with my daughter growing up, it’s the perfect family car. But with 7 seats, Hannah (my daughter) will need some more brothers and sisters,” said a delighted Krazy Kevin on receiving the all new Grandis.

Completely awe inspiring, the Mitsubishi Grandis features a unique bold design reflecting the modern style that radiates both the warmth of human emotion and the accomplishment of modern technology.
 

Top
 


Mitsubishi Lancer 2006 …A spirited performance
There is one for everyone

For those who wish to make an impressive statement, Zayani Motors has lined up a spectacular collection of Lancer 2006 models that are sure to impress you with a new definition for modern technology and refined engineering that suits the modern day lifestyle.

With a daily rate starting from BD1.9 per day, your choice just gets even easier.. Truly, there’s a Lancer for everyone.

The 2006 Lancer sacrifices none of the qualities that Lancer fans expect. The sporty look adapts the “Spirited” new Mitsubishi Motors front end design and is complimented by extensive improvements that enhance its on-road performance and environmental friendliness. Whether you decide to go for the Lancer GL, GLX, Ralliart 2.0 or Evolution IX model, envision yourself behind the wheel and the rest will just fall into place.

The Mitsubishi Lancer GL and GLX offers more than just value. This reliable Japanese compact sedan is ideal for every occasion that brightens your driving experience. So whether it’s a weekend getaway or the daily grind, the Lancer will always fit your lifestyle.

The Lancer Ralliart 2.0L is certain to be an exciting and attractive addition to your life. With a classic sporty exterior, triptronic gears and a smooth of drive, it is the perfect car for the adventure of a lifetime.

The Lancer Evolution IX is a pure bred sports car for motor sport enthusiasts and enjoys a track performance that never fails to impress. It is an extreme car for an extreme way of life.

The 2006 Lancer is the sheer combination of modern elegance and refined style created to appeal to all your senses, an ideal car designed to lead the way in its category, setting new standards in all aspects…image, reliability, performance, safety, comfort and inner space.

The Lancer has also enjoyed substantial success in the world of motor sports which is evident from the WRC Lancer- Mitsubishi’s international rally car and winner of several World Rally Championships.

Zayani Motors is the first Japanese cars distributor in Bahrain to move to 10,000 kms service intervals. Customers can now enjoy the convenience of driving 10,000 kms before each service instead of the traditional 5,000 kms.

Zayani Motors offer their customers a Diamond Lifetime Warranty (1,000,000 Kms or more) for Mitsubishi car owners who carry out regular service and maintenance at Zayani Motors fully equipped service centers in Ma'ameer and Arad. Customers who qualify for this privilege enjoy a lifetime warranty on their vehicles engine and transmission components.

With respect to ZM’s added-value programs, Zayani Motors also offer their customers an exclusive membership for the Diamond Loyalty Scheme which entitles them for special discounts on parts, accessories and labor charges, 24 hour free recovery service, guaranteed same day delivery of service and routine maintenance jobs and much more.

Trade-ins are also encouraged by Zayani Motors to facilitate and attract potential customers. Customers can trade-in their old vehicles regardless of make, model or year. Wherever you’re heading, whether for leisure or business, Mitsubishi cars enjoy an attractive styling and all-road brilliance that fits all life styles.

With a dedicated after-sales team, a professional service center and fixed ‘open and honest’ service menu pricing, Zayani Motors has consolidated its position as one of the most innovative dealerships in the Kingdom that offers value added packages and excellent customer service.
 

Top
 


Zayani Leasing - The Smart Choice

Leasing vehicles is the ideal choice for those who want to drive away a new vehicle with total peace of mind and no financial constraints. Zayani Leasing allows you to simply choose the model that suits your needs- be it for business, family or leisure purposes, in the most efficient manner.

For ultimate flexibility, Zayani Leasing offers an exclusive range of services that are designed to suit your individual requirement. By making the right choice of vehicles from a wide range of reliable and popular makes like Mitsubishi, Hyundai, BMW, Land rover, Range rover, Mini Cooper & Mitsubishi Forklift Trucks that covers both Passenger & commercial vehicle segments, Zayani Leasing ensures the presence and provision of an efficient fleet at your disposal.

Operating a fleet of over 2,600 vehicles, Zayani Leasing has a portfolio and infrastructure to provide the best customer service, at the best price, offering true value for your money.

 A lease down payment can be lower than a finance down payment. In terms of cost convenience, Zayani Leasing’s special cost control system keeps your costs low at an agreed fixed monthly rate. Calculations of leasing payments are based on the vehicle type, operating conditions, mileage and contract period.

Maximum operating availability is ensured through Zayani Leasing’s proactive vehicle management which includes all legally required checks, preventive repairs and maintenance, warranties and goodwill administration. All vehicles are dealer-maintained and services are carried out as per the manufacturers recommended service schedule using only Genuine Parts, further ensuring you the ultimate driving experience with added safety and peace of mind.


Top