Land Rover's Defender Concept 100 and Defender Concept 100 Sport have made their Indian debut at the New Delhi Auto Expo 2012. These concepts investigate the potential design direction for a replacement for the iconic Defender.

John Edwards, Land Rover Global Brand Director said: "The Defender has always been at the heart of the Land Rover Brand and single-handedly defines our go-anywhere, can-do sprit. Our ambition is to create an all new Defender for a global market that remains absolutely faithful to its original DNA: tough, versatile, durable and capable. At the same time, it will be developed for the 21st century and adaptable for the needs of future generations.

"Our intention is to introduce the all new Defender in the middle of the decade - there's a lot of work to do to meet these dates and our concepts are just the start of the journey. We are here inIndiato showcase the Defender Concept 100 and Defender Concept 100 Sport."

Capturing the rugged, dependable and adventurous spirit of the original, the Defender Concept 100 and Defender Concept 100 Sport are intended to showcase the potential breath of capability for the future Defender family. Evolved since their unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2011, the concepts now ride on optimised off-road 20-inch alloy wheels shod with Cooper all-terrain tyres.

Shown for the first time in Firenze Red paint with a white roof, the Defender Concept 100 re- invents the essential Defender design cues for the 21st century. These include short overhangs for extreme approach and departure angles, vertical panels, an upright windscreen and strong shoulder line for visibility and ease of positioning and, of course, the honest Defender 'face' with its signature round lamps and prominent grille, incorporating a winch.

Also in Firenze Red, the Defender Concept 100 Sport takes all these key design cues and adds to them the spirit of freedom first embodied by the early canvas-roofed Land Rovers with their fold-down windscreens to create a concept bursting with California cool.

Core Land Rover attributes of capability and versatility are underpinned in both concepts by a suite of innovative off-road technological aids that reduce the workload on the driver.

Foremost of these is the next generation of Land Rover's acclaimed Terrain Response system which will optimise the car for any conditions without driver pre-selection. In addition, a new Terrain-i system creates an intelligent map of the topography in front of the car and displays it as a 3D visualisation. Terrain-i automatically identifies potential hazards and suggests alternative routes. In urban environments the same system is able to identify pedestrians and hazards with great accuracy.

A new Wade Aid system utilises sonar sensors mounted in the bumpers and wing mirrors to measure water depth. As with Terrain Response, Wade Aid will optimise the car for water crossings by closing body vents, raising the ride height, selecting a low gear and advising on the safest speed.

Sustainability has always been a Land Rover hallmark - more than three-quarters of the almost two million Defenders made are still doing regular duty - and the Defender Concepts extend this commitment with new technologies that will reduce their environmental impact. The first is an intelligent Twin-Solenoid Stop/Start system mated to the latest eight-speed automatic gearbox, both of which have been designed with future hybridisation in mind. Second is the unique Driveline Disconnect system, which sends power to the front-axle only unless conditions demand all-wheel drive. Unlike conventional systems, this physically, rather than electronically, decouples the rear-axle to reduce friction losses but can reengage drive almost instantaneously.

Land Rover is celebrating 50 years of using the Eastnor Castle estate in Herefordshire as its centre for off road testing and development. Tucked away in rural Herefordshire, this historic piece of English countryside is still an important tool in the research and development of new Land Rovers as well as offering a completely unique Land Rover driving experience to members of the public.

In 1961, Land Rover first chose the 5,000 acre Eastnor Castle estate located near Ledbury, Herefordshire to assess the off-road credentials of their vehicles. Half a century on, the tradition continues, with Eastnor playing a pivotal role in the research and development of Land Rover's outstanding all-round capability and class-leading off road performance.

As well as the cars themselves, Eastnor has been instrumental in developing an impressive collection of Land Rover technologies; such as Anti-lock Brakes, Adjustable Air Suspension, Electronic Traction Control, Hill Descent Control and Terrain Response® - many of which were world firsts in the 4x4 sector.

The tradition of testing all Land Rover models at Eastnor continues to this day. The Range Rover Evoque was the most recent model to complete its off-road apprenticeship and a large part of the Evoque's technology, including MagneRide™, was proven on the estate, where ride dampers were tested extensively.

Terrain Response® offers drivers optimal vehicle set-up (electronic and mechanical), and performance, under a variety of off-road conditions.

Whether driving in mud, ruts, rocks, sand, grass, gravel or snow, Terrain Response® has the appropriate setting, and will optimise ride height, engine torque Response®, Hill Descent Control, Electronic Traction Control and transmission settings, ensuring a safe and controlled passage across any terrain. The Eastnor estate provides the ultimate test for all these conditions and is instrumental in the continuing development of this technology.

Eastnor has been used as not only an ideal off-road engineering ground, but since 1989, as an off-road learning centre for the emergency services, explorers, humanitarian societies such as the British Red Cross and, more recently, the general public.

Eastnor is one of over 30 centres around the world, and hosts over five and a half thousand visitors every year participating in half or full days, beginner and intermediate training as well as exciting night drives. Over a third of these visitors have travelled from overseas, keen to experience Land Rover in its heartland.

The automotive division of MHD LLC has launched the all-new Z7, a multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) with a unique design, features, re-defined comfort and advanced Japanese technology.

The Z7 is manufactured by CMC which was founded in 1969 and signed a technical collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors Corporation the following year. The Yang-Mei plant was completed at the end of 1973, establishing the manufacturing base for CMC's future growth. The company has been listed on Taiwan Stock Exchange (TSE) since March 1991 and has repeatedly been recognized for its remarkable growth. In 1993 it was awarded the National Quality Award of Taiwan and has also been ranked first place in J.D. Power Asia-Pacific's Sales Satisfaction Index studies. They have also been awarded numerous accolades for exemplary working conditions in their manufacturing plants. CMC currently produces more than 120,000 vehicles per annum comprising of Sedans, Recreational Vehicles, LCV’s & Trucks.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. David Aziz, CEO- Automotive Products, MHD LLC said: “MHD LLC’s Automotive Division has represented CMC in the Sultanate of Oman since the year 2000. It is a well established automotive brand in the country with a reputation for hardworking reliable products. The launch of the new CMC Z7 with a very competitive price and excellent after-sales support provided by MHD LLC makes the CMC Z7 a sure winner in its segment.”

The CMC Z7 is a crossover MPV with an impressive presence and a sporty edge adding new dimensions to driving pleasure. The Z7 has a sporty design wheel cut molding and side sill garnish, a compact yet spacious interior with leather seats to fit 7 passengers comfortably, with the option of removing the third row or folding the second row to create extra storage space.

Its advanced features include a powerful air conditioning system that creates a comfortable cabin climate, CD player and numerous storage spaces including a large glove box, door pockets and cup-holders.

The advanced Japanese technology embedded in the new Z7 provides high level of reliability along with safety to passengers as it is equipped with dual airbags, Anti- lock Brake System (ABS) and Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD).

Its high rigidity chassis frame creates a superior SUV-level combination of high handling stability and ride comfort, while its 2.4 Litre engine has been specifically designed to drive through rough terrain and during any condition. The 16” alloy wheels also add to the driving comfort of the CMC Z7.

MHD LLC has launched the CMC Z7 vehicle at a very competitive price of RO. 7995 in the Sultanate of Oman. This is supported with a 3 Years/ 60,000 KM Warranty and AAA Road Side Assistance for a period of 2 years. The CMC Z7 is available from MHD LLC’s showrooms at Azaiba, Sohar & Salalah.

Volvo Car Corporation's leadership in car safety is confirmed in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) 2012 Top Safety Pick award.
The U.S. award recognizes vehicles that do the best job of protecting people in front, side, rollover, and rear crashes - and no less than five Volvo models - the C30, S60, S80, XC60 and XC90 - earned a Top Safety Pick. Volvo is the only European luxury brand with five awarded models in the new IIHS report.

"The risk of being involved in an accident or being injured in one of our latest car models has been reduced with more than two thirds compared with a Volvo from the 1970s. Now, we keep on moving towards our safety vision that nobody should die or suffer serious injuries in a new Volvo car by the year 2020", says Thomas Broberg, Senior Safety Advisor at Volvo Car Corporation.

IIHS Top Safety Pick is based on four accident scenario results*:
• Frontal crashworthiness evaluations are based on results of 40 mph (64 km/h) frontal offset crash tests.
• Side evaluations are based on performance in a crash test in which the side of a vehicle is struck by a barrier moving at 31 mph (50 km/h). The barrier represents the front end of a pickup or SUV.
• To earn a good rating for rollover protection, the car roof must withstand a force of four times the vehicle's weight before reaching five inches of crush.
• Rear crash protection is rated using a dummy that measures forces on the neck. This test simulates a collision in which a stationary vehicle is struck in the rear at 20 mph (32 km/h).

Outstanding U.S. NCAP rating
Volvo Car Corporation's dedication to car safety has been recognized in several recent studies.
The XC60 is also the only SUV crossover with an IIHS Top Safety Pick and an overall 5 star U.S. NCAP rating. In the 2010 test, the XC60 received 5 stars in all individual crash tests, including 5 stars for the driver and 5 stars for the passenger in the frontal collision as well as 5 stars in both side tests.

Auto brake results in fewer accidents
Earlier this year, the benefits of the groundbreaking City Safety technology - featuring automatic braking in low speed situations - were documented in another IIHS report stating a reduction of the collision frequency with up to 22 percent. The IIHS study of insurance claims involving a Volvo XC60 shows that City Safety reduces the costs for personal injury claims with 51 percent - while vehicle repair costs were lowered by more than 20 percent. A similar study by the Swedish insurance company Volvia shows that Volvo cars equipped with automatic braking are involved in 22 percent fewer rear end accidents than cars without auto brake.

Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC is the sole authorized importer for Volvo Cars in the Sultanate of Oman. More details on the Volvo range of cars can be obtained by visiting their showrooms in Azaiba, Sohar & Salalah. An exclusive toll free number 800-74747 is also available for Volvo customers in the Sultanate of Oman.

Autokontrol Limited UK, the manufacturers of Romatic ‘Drive by Wire’ speed limiter systems have awarded training certificates to MHD Automotives technicians who have completed both practical and theory tests on the installation of these patented systems. The certificates were presented by Mr. Gerald Gray the Managing Director of AutoKontrol Limited UK. Mr. David Aziz, CEO- Automotive Products and other senior management officials from the MHD Automotive Division were also present on the occasion.

Autokontrol’s new ‘Drive by Wire’ system is the only type of speed limiter that should be fitted to vehicles equipped with Engine Management Systems (EMS). To install a mechanical speed limiter to a vehicle with an EMS could damage the vehicle, shut the engine down or invalidate the vehicle manufacturer’s warranty.

Few companies in the world have this technology and Autokontrol has worked in close partnership with MHD to launch new innovations in the Sultanate of Oman. Autokontrol & MHD were the first company to launch speed limiters in Oman in the year 1993 and its fitting was made mandatory for all vehicles by PDO in the same year. More than 30,000 Autokontrol speed limiter systems have been sold & installed in PDO contractor vehicles till date. This was followed by the introduction of the auto dual speed limiters for off road use in the year 2000, the latest introduction being the patented ‘Drive by Wire’ speed limiter systems in 2011.

In the Sultanate of Oman MHD LLC’s Automotive Division has been the exclusive distributor for the Autokontrol speed limiter range for more than 18 years now. These speed limiters are approved by the PDO as well as the ROP in Oman. MHD LLC’s list of clientele includes Galfar, STS, Al Turki, Truckoman, Al Hashar along with the Zubair & Suhail Bahwan group of companies.

Autokontrol has sold more than 250,000 systems to more than 40 countries and is probably the most internationally approved speed limiter available.

MHD LLC, a leading diversified business group in the Sultanate of Oman, announces that it has been awarded the prestigious International Organization for Standardization (ISO 27001) certification on 18th of November 2011 for Information Security Management; covering the IT infrastructure, data center and all departments operating from their group corporate office in Ruwi. The certification is awarded to companies whose procedures conform to strict international standards; and the ISO/IEC 27001 accreditation is the only auditable international benchmark for information security management. MHD LLC is the first organization in its sector to achieve ISO 27001 certification in the Sultanate of Oman. It is also the first organization in the Sultanate to accomplish this feat that encompasses all operating departments of the corporate office.

ISO 27001 is one of the most rigorous international standards for information systems and physical security processes. The audit and certification process focuses on every aspect of the business, including physical infrastructure, personnel security, access controls, asset management, communications and operations, business continuity planning, legal compliance, backup and disaster recovery systems. In order to obtain this certification, the MHD Group’s corporate office underwent a stringent set of internal and external reviews to ensure its IT systems and corporate departments met the requirements of ISO 27001, a process audited by BSI Group, a leading global independent business services organization providing standard-based solutions in more than 150 countries.

Mr Mohsin Haider Darwish, Chairman of MHD Group said, “this certification would facilitate the Group to continuously ensure that critical information assets are systematically managed and controlled, enhancing the Group’s governance and information security assurance to all stakeholders, business partners and customers. It also supports MHD Group’s corporate objectives, whilst reinforcing a culture of excellence. As MHD LLC continues to expand, the ISO quality framework will assure customers that they will continue to receive the highest quality products and consistent service from all our business Divisions”. He further added, “We are honoured to have received the ISO 27001 certification on 18th of November as it coincided with the Sultanate of Oman’s 41st National Day which makes it extra special”.

Mrs Areej Mohsin Darwish, Joint Dy. Chairperson of MHD Group mentioned, “Achieving operational excellence is a strategic goal for our company and this certification along with ISO 9001 are key markers. It demonstrates a clear and decisive commitment to maintaining the highest standards of corporate governance and security in addition to selling quality products and services”.

Dubai, UAE – Luxury automotive manufacturer Jaguar Land Rover MENAP has once again showcased its brand strength and product leadership within the region by winning two of the most important and prestigious auto awards at the Middle East Motor Awards, held at Expo Centre Sharjah, UAE in early November.

The MEMA for the ‘Best Luxury SUV’ was awarded to Range Rover for the second year in a row, beating off fierce competition with the Porsche Cayenne and BMW X5. Jaguar scooped the award for the XJ in the ‘Best Luxury Car’ category, competing with the Audi A8 and Mercedes S class.

Official Patron of the MEMAs, Mr. Mohammad Ben Sulayem, presented the award to Jean Atik, Marketing Manager, Land Rover MENAP, who commented, “We are very proud to have received this award for the flagship and most luxurious SUV on our fleet, which is recognized by such an esteemed body as the Middle East Motor Awards. This award demonstrates our brand appreciation across the region and our efforts in building the ultimate vehicle that combines the ultimate in off-road capability with unparalleled luxury.”

The Range Rover’s 5.0-litre, 510bhp supercharged and 375bhp naturally aspirated LR-V8s deliver supreme performance and economy. Equipped with the latest direct fuel injection systems, these lightweight engines combine benchmark efficiency with outstanding levels of power and torque delivered from low down the rev range. 0-100kph is reached in the naturally aspirated car in just 7.6 seconds while for those who want the last word in performance, the supercharged V8 will rush to 100kph in a mere 6.2 seconds.

Justin Weaving, Sales Director, Jaguar MENAP, who received the award for the Jaguar XJ in the ‘Best Luxury Car’ category said, “This award for our flagship Jaguar XJ proves our commitment not only to design, innovation, and performance but also to the region, where the vehicle has received widespread appreciation and prestigious awards. The redesigned Jaguar XJ has already won over 20 international awards and generated rave reviews, and we are extremely honored to have been recognized by the MEMA in the luxury car segment.”

The Jaguar XJ is truly a product of the 21st century and is the clearest indication yet of the singular sense of purpose behind Design Director Ian Callum’s vision for the future of Jaguar. The XJ benefits from the most advanced, powerful and efficient Jaguar powertrains ever. Powered by the 5.0-litre naturally aspirated V8 and 5.0-litre supercharged V8, the Jaguar XJ comprises of 470 and 510 horsepower versions of the supercharged engine.

• High-performance Jaguar XKR-S Convertible to make its world debut in Los Angeles
• Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport Concepts make North American debut in new configurations emphasizing their all-terrain capabilities.
• Jaguar C-X16 Production Concept makes North American debut
• New vehicles demonstrate Jaguar Land Rover's design and technology leadership.

Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) continues its new product and concept vehicle momentum with the Global and North American debuts of multiple new products at the 2011 Los Angeles International Automobile Show, November 16 – 28.

Dr, Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover commented: "Jaguar Land Rover is proud to be demonstrating for the U.S. market the latest design and technology advancements we have made with both brands, Our presence here reflects the fact that the U.S. is an important market for our global growth plans, and Southern California is a key region from a business and a global trends perspective."

Making its global debut at the Show will be the 550 PS XKR-S Convertible which joins the XKR-S Coupé as the fastest and most powerful production Jaguars ever created.

Jaguar will also show the award winning Jaguar C-X16 Production Concept – combining hybrid technology with a highly responsive 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine beneath a beautifully styled body created by Director of Design, Ian Callum.

Land Rover, on the heels of the globally successful launch of the Range Rover Evoque, will be showcasing two design concepts, the DC100 (hard top) and DC100 Sport (open top) at the Show. The two concepts from Land Rover investigate the potential future design direction of the iconic Defender. The concepts capture the flexibility, adaptability and configurability that have always been key attributes of Land Rover and continue in today’s Defender.

The DC100 concept has been reconfigured for its North American debut to highlight the breadth of capability. Land Rover DC100 concept will be revealed with a new body colour and different wheels and tyres. Body colour changed to 'Heritage Blue' and new wheels and tyres optimised for off-road driving.

Following their initial global debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Jaguar C-X16 and Land Rover DC100 Sport were awarded top honours for Best in Show and Best Concept respectively by AutoWeek Magazine. The company will be getting feedback from show attendees on its Jaguar and Land Rover concepts for future consideration.

Dubai, UAE – Volvo Car Corporation took home the most coveted award of the Middle East Motor Award ceremony with the Volvo S60 winning “Middle East Car of the Year”.

The 2011 model sports sedan has been recognized as the leading vehicle comparing to the competition. There is no denying that driving a Volvo S60 is unlike any other driving experience. Not only is the sleek, modern Scandinavian design pleasing to the eye, its sportier, competitive drive exceeds the standards of luxury cars today.

“Winning the “Middle East Car of the Year” award is an honor and we are thrilled with the exposure that the S60 has received this year. This is a significant title and award for Volvo Cars Corporation and we can’t begin to express our gratitude to our Volvo customers. We have received an overwhelming amount of positive feedback on the Volvo S60 and we are proud to own the title of “Middle East Car of the Year” said Emre Karaer, Volvo Sales and Marketing Director.

In addition to the Middle East Motor Award for “Middle East Car of the Year”, the Volvo S60 has also won the “International Sedan of the Year” Award and was named “Most Dependable” car from the International Car of the Year jury earlier this year.

More details on the Volvo range of cars can be obtained by visiting their showrooms in Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah. An exclusive toll free number 800-74747 is also available for Volvo customers in the Sultanate of Oman.

-15  September 2011

On November 11-13, the Footman James Classic Motor Show will take place at the NEC in Birmingham and Volvo Cars Heritage will be there again, after a two year absence. The stand will also house the Volvo Owners Club (UK) during the show. This will be the last of the Volvo P1800 50th anniversary activities and the Grand Finale of the hectic 2011 Volvo Cars Heritage event season.

The collection of P1800 cars was impressive at the TechnoClassica show in Essen in April, but it may probably be even more impressive at the Birmingham show. The top attraction will be the P1800 from 1961 with an original 2.5 litre DOHC four-cylinder Aston Martin prototype engine which was fitted to the car at the Aston factory for test purposes. Although this project was never realized, the car has survived and is today proudly owned and run by Mr Beat Roos of Roos Engineering in Switzerland.

Besides this fantastic car, the now famous P958-X1 prototype will continue its triumphant tour by also appearing in the UK, together with its designer and creator, Pelle Petterson who will be present during the show.

The other cars at the stand will be ST1 - the white 1800 of a certain "Saint", a very nice original one-owner Jensen-built P1800 and a serious-looking 1800S in rally guise.

On top of that there will be a couple of other exciting surprises, never before seen in the UK. A unique and very interesting collection of Volvo coupes will meet the visitors to the Volvo Cars Heritage stand 5T42, November 11-13 2011 at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham (UK). For more information about the show, please visit www.volvocars.com/heritage.

More details on the current range of Volvo cars can be obtained from Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC, the sole Volvo Cars importers in the Sultanate of Oman.

-15  September 2011

The Jaguar XF has been announced as Auto Express Driver Power 'Car of the Decade'.

Over a period of 10 years readers of Auto Express have been invited to participate in the Driver Power survey and evaluate the car they own. The detailed survey encompassed many aspects of vehicle ownership - from reliability to dealer performance, to design, handling and ease of use.

In that time over 300,000 readers participated with hundreds of individual cars being tested. The Jaguar XF emerged as Number One.

Acting Editor of Auto Express, Graham Hope, presented Dr. Ralf Speth, CEO of Jaguar Land Rover and Andrew Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer, XF, with the Award in front of staff at the Castle Bromwich Factory.

Dr. Speth commented: 'We are humbled by Jaguar owners voting in such a way to rate the XF as the number one car in the UK. It's a tremendous achievement for everyone in Jaguar – from the people here at Castle Bromwich who have been building the car since 2008 to the engineers, the designers and the dealers. I am very proud to receive the award on their behalf.'

Also present to accept the Award was Andy Whyman, Chief Programme Engineer. Gathered at the presentation were technicians from the Castle Bromwich product line as well as the very first XF ever produced sitting alongside a new XF, fresh off the line.

Graham Hope, Editor of Auto Express, commented: '“Jaguar’s XF is a thoroughly deserving winner of our Car of the Decade. Over the past 10 years, more than 302,000 Auto Express readers have told us what they like and dislike about their cars, and no model has demonstrated such consistent all-round ability as the XF. It’s fantastic to drive and extremely well built – a tribute to the skilled workforce at Castle Bromwich.”

More details on the Jaguar XF can be obtained from Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC, the sole Jaguar importers in the Sultanate of Oman.

Dubai, 4th August 2011 – According to the recently released J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) StudySM, Jaguar and Land Rover brands rank among the top five nameplates, both with improved scores for 2011. Jaguar ranks 2nd among nameplates for the fourth year in row with a score of 857; while Land Rover ranks 4th among nameplates, up from 5th last year, with an overall score of 841. Land Rover's Range Rover is the award recipient for Large Premium Crossover/SUV, two years in a row.

The APEAL study examines design and performance characteristics across 32 brand nameplates that make a new vehicle a delight to own and drive, and is based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes.

Said Robin Colgan, JLR Managing Director MENAP: “We are extremely proud that our vehicles continue to shine in this benchmark study. These outstanding results underscore the fact that we are premium automotive company with two luxury brands that excel in providing our customers with quality vehicles that deliver extraordinary performance, innovative technology and superior styling.”

With an overall score of 857, Jaguar this year for the fourth consecutive year earns a 2nd place ranking among brand nameplates. The all-new 2011 Jaguar XJ received a score of 867. The Jaguar XF ranks 3rd among vehicles in the Midsize Premium Car segment with a score of 844.

With an overall score of 841, Land Rover improves its ranking position to 4th place. This is the fourth consecutive year of score improvements for Land Rover. Additionally, Range Rover is the award recipient for Large Premium Crossover/SUV with a score of 856, and receives high scores in vehicle interior, vehicle exterior, driving dynamics and visibility and driving safety categories.

In 2011, the APEAL the gap between all-new and redesigned models versus carryover models has increase from 18 points in 2010 to 29 points in 2011. The J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study examines how gratifying a new vehicle is to own and drive based on owner evaluations of more than 80 vehicle attributes. The study's unique approach to measuring owner satisfaction and how much a customer likes or dislikes virtually every aspect of their new vehicle provides a powerful tool to manufacturers to influence future product development.

The 2011 APEAL Study is based on responses gathered between February 2011 and May 2011 from more than 73,000 purchasers and lessees of new 2011 model-year cars and trucks who were surveyed after the first 90 days of ownership.

Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC is the sole authorized importer for the Jaguar & Land Rover brands in the Sultanate of Oman.

-17  July 2011

The award winning Land Rover LR4 is featured in this year's most eagerly awaited Bollywood movie, Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara (ZNMD). The film centres on three best friends travelling on a road trip of a lifetime and has a star cast of Hrithik Roshan, Katrina Kaif, Farhan Akhtar, Abhay Deol and Kalki Koechlin.

The LR 4 was a natural choice for the producers who recognized the vehicle's perfect combination of sophisticated style and versatility both on and off road. The premium luxury and practicality of the LR4 is well suited to a road movie that could prove to be the hit of the year.

The film producer Ritesh Sidhwani said: "When deciding on the SUV, as written in the script by Zoya and Reema, I couldn't have thought of any other SUV that was suitable to travel on the different terrains, but a Land Rover. The safety and comfort of the cast was important and this can be trusted with the Land Rover LR4. The vehicle is also being used to promote our film in an innovative way by driving from Mumbai to Delhi, as the central concept is about a joyous road trip that takes three friends on an exciting once in a lifetime journey!"

Zindagi Na Milega Dobara has been released globally on 15th July 2011.

-27  June 2011

With just 73 days to go until Rugby World Cup 2011 kicks off in New Zealand, Land Rover, as the Official Vehicle, today delivered a fleet of special Rugby World Cup 2011 vehicles to the country in preparation for the Tournament.

As Official Vehicle of Rugby World Cup 2011, Land Rover will keep the ball rolling by supplying vehicles to the organisers, teams and officials. The majority of the Range Rover Sports and Land Rover LR4’s arrived today at the Port of Auckland with the balance of the vehicles being delivered before the Tournament starts on September 9th. The vehicles will be specially customised with Rugby World Cup 2011 branding, RWC 2011 number plates, and commemorative badging to promote the association throughout New Zealand.

John Edwards, Global Brand Director, Land Rover added: “Land Rover’s sponsorship of Rugby World Cup marks a significant development in the partnership between Land Rover and Rugby. Land Rover is proud of its heritage within the sport and is pleased to extend its support on a global basis. The five year agreement with RWCL, which includes becoming a Worldwide Partner for Rugby World Cup 2015, will enable Land Rover to engage with customers, staff and Rugby fans all around the world, as well as in the host countries of New Zealand and England.

“Land Rover is extremely proud of their association with a sport which shares so many of their core values – power, intelligence, versatility – all elements that are needed to create great competitive Rugby and world class all-terrain vehicles. Rugby World Cup 2011 and host country New Zealand provide the perfect global showcase for Land Rover’s vehicles.”

Gary Upson, Brand Manager, Land Rover New Zealand, commented: “We are really excited to be supporting Rugby World Cup 2011 this year in New Zealand and are pleased that we could bring vehicles into the country to help with organisation. The all-terrain vehicles will be put to good use between now and October by RWCL representatives, teams and officials, and the fleet will help the Tournament to run smoothly.”

The Tournament will be attended by fans from around the globe and will be watched by a TV audience of over four billion in more than 200 countries.

Land Rover’s support of RWC 2011 and RWC 2015 builds on the company’s well-established, long term relationship with Rugby. Land Rover is proud to have been Official Vehicle of the British and Irish Lions, supporting them on their 2005 and 2009 tours to New Zealand and South Africa. In the UK, Land Rover has been Official Vehicle of both England Rugby and Premiership Rugby since 2002, and is committed to developing the grassroots of the Game through the Land Rover Premiership Rugby Cup, a nationwide tournament for under 11s and under 12s. They were also the Official Vehicle of the final phase of the Top 14 Orange in France and Emirates Airline Dubai Rugby Sevens 2010.

-06  June 2011

The Volvo S60 has been honored as the 2011 International Sedan of the Year at the New York International Auto Show by the International Car of the Year (ICOTY) jury. The all-new sports sedan was deemed best-in-class for the most superlative connection with consumer lifestyles. The selection was made by a jury of 12 nationally recognized automotive journalists.

"To receive the International Sedan of the Year award and be named 'Most Dependable' demonstrates first-hand that the Volvo S60 connects with consumers' lifestyles on both an emotional and rational level," said Doug Speck, president and CEO of Volvo Cars North America, who accepted the award. "From our advanced technology safety features and masterful Scandinavian design, to its best-in-class fuel economy and award-winning engine, the S60 delivers something for everyone. It is without a doubt a game changer for us."

First sedan with Advanced Stability Control

The dynamic new chassis in the all-new Volvo S60 is backed up by a range of electronic systems that sharpen the sporty driving experience still further.

The S60 is the first sedan model on the market with Advanced Stability Control. With a new roll angle sensor, it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. This means that the Dynamic Stability and Traction Control (DSTC) can step in earlier and with greater precision. Advanced Stability Control is a great asset in dynamic driving involving considerable lateral forces, thus improving handling and rapid avoidance manoeuvres.

Exclusive quality inside

The interior of the all-new S60 takes Volvo Cars to a new dimension in terms of exclusive quality. In addition, Volvo Cars’ designers have added in excitement, contrast and playfulness to the rational simplicity of Scandinavian design tradition.

The all-new S60 gets an all-new infotainment system where information from the audio unit, navigation system, mobile phone and other functions is presented on a seven-inch colour screen in the upper part of the centre console. The screen is installed high to make it easy for the driver to keep his or her eyes on the road.

The S60’s most advanced audio system- Premium Sound, has a class-D digital 5x130W amplifier with circuits from Sweden’s Anaview, Dolby Digital in combination with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround, the award-winning MultEQ from Audyssey Laboratories and 12 loudspeakers. All this creates an audio experience of absolute world class quality.

City Safety standard

The all-new Volvo S60 also features City Safety as standard. With City Safety, the car automatically brakes if the driver fails to react in time when the vehicle in front slows down or stops – or if he or she is driving too fast towards a stationary object. The system can lessen or even entirely avoid low-speed rear-end impacts at speeds up to 30 kilometres an hour.

Summer Surprise from MHD LLC

The award winning Volvo S60 is now available at a surprisingly low price of RO. 10,995 onwards from all the showrooms of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah.

More details on the Volvo range of cars can be obtained by calling them on exclusive toll free number 800-74747 available for Volvo customers in the Sultanate of Oman.

-21  May 2011

The Automotive Division of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC has launched a ‘Diamondbrite’ paint & fabric protection centre at its Wadikabir Service centre. The centre was launched in the presence of Mr. John Boseley, Managing Director & Mr. Neil Simmonds, Export Sales Manager from Jewelultra Limited and Mr. David Aziz, Director Automotive along with other senior personnel from the automotive division of MHD LLC.

The Diamondbrite paint protection process protects against all environmental issues that can damage and age automotive paintwork over a period of time. Diamondbrite is proven to protect against Road Grits, Traffic Film, Tar, Acid Rain, Atmospheric Pollutants, Tree Sap, Bird Droppings, Temperature Cycles, Insect Fluid and UV Light.

The Diamondbrite interior protection coats each fibre with an invisible resin based material. After this treatment, the interior fabrics and carpets are guaranteed for 3 years against spills and stains from everyday liquids such as tea, coffee, fruit juices, fizzy drinks, chocolate and grease from foodstuffs.

MHD LLC’s Diamondbrite centre is staffed by a team of fully trained technicians to ensure that the paint & fabric protection process is carried out in a professional manner as per the specifications of the manufacturer.

Speaking on the occasion Mr. John Boseley said, “The new Diamondbrite Application Centre in Wadikabir is an extension to the success that MHD have had with the Diamondbrite Paint and Fabric Protection System through its application on new Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo vehicles” .

Mr. David Aziz, Director Automotive, MHD LLC added, “ The Diamondbrite product has always been marketed with our prestige vehicle brands, but by opening our new Diamondbrite Application Centre, it will allow owners of all brands of vehicles to have their Paintwork and Interior Fabrics protected with Diamondbrite which is guaranteed for 3 Years”.

Further information on the Diamondbrite Paint and Fabric Protection System can be obtained by contacting the Application Centre on 24810445. Vehicle collection & delivery services have also been arranged to provide complete service to the customers.

-15  May 2011

• Jaguar to launch C-X75 as a hybrid supercar
• Mixes internal combustion power with electric motors to achieve supercar performance and less than 99g/km CO₂ emissions
• Downsized highly boosted petrol engine with two powerful electric motors and four-wheel-drive
• 0-60mph in less than 3 seconds
• 0-100mph in less than 6 seconds
• Top speed in excess of 200mph
• All-electric running range in excess of 50km
• True-to-concept, lightweight, all carbon-fibre chassis
• Groundbreaking association with Williams F1 – built in the UK
• Direct technology transfer from top-level motorsport
• Prices from £700,000 depending on local market and taxes
• Exclusive limited volume hybrid supercar – only 250 will be built

Jaguar can today confirm that it will launch the remarkable C-X75 concept car as an exclusive hybrid supercar.

Jaguar C-X75 will become the British marque’s most advanced model to date. It will offer performance on a par with the fastest production cars on the market, while adopting cutting-edge technology that offers remarkably economical running. Jaguar expects this hybrid supercar to deliver incredibly low CO₂ emissions of less than 99g/km while being able to achieve in excess of 200mph.

“People expect Jaguar to be innovators - that is when Jaguar is at its best,” said Adrian Hallmark, Jaguar Brand Director. “The C-X75 received an incredible reception as a concept car. We’ve been building on that momentum and there is a clear business case for this exclusive halo model. No other vehicle will better signify Jaguar’s renewed confidence and excellence in technological innovation than this.”

Project C-X75 will be the ultimate expression of Jaguar design and engineering innovation. This high-performance hybrid supercar will stay true to the initial concept design study that made its debut at the 2010 Paris motor show, while fulfilling requirements that allow it to be homologated for road use.

“We were always determined that the Jaguar C-X75 would be as striking on the road as it was in concept form,” said Ian Callum, Director of Design, Jaguar Cars. “This will be the finest looking and most innovative Jaguar ever produced. Even in the world of supercars, we can still produce the most beautiful.”

In an unprecedented move, Jaguar C-X75 will be developed in association with Williams F1 who will provide their engineering expertise in areas including aerodynamics, carbon composite manufacture and hybrid technologies. This association will be at the leading edge of British automotive engineering and innovation.

“Confirmation of this project today signposts Jaguar Land Rover’s continued determination to embrace new technologies,” said Jaguar Land Rover CEO, Dr Ralf Speth. “A supercar like the C-X75 is the logical choice to showcase cutting-edge design, intelligent use of new environmental technologies and motorsport-inspired performance.”

It also marks a new milestone in both company’s histories as Jaguar Land Rover and Williams collaborate for the first time to produce one of the world’s highest performance and environmentally sustainable supercars. The production of Jaguar C-X75 will create more than one hundred highly-skilled jobs in the UK.

A direct technology transfer between elite motorsport and road-going production cars is key to C-X75’s success. The supercar’s chassis will be made of carbon-fibre to create an incredibly lightweight, yet rigidly strong structure.

Aiding the transition from concept to production vehicle is the choice of powertrain. Jaguar continues to develop the use of the micro-turbine technology that was showcased in the original concept C-X75. Jaguar’s parent company Tata has taken a significant stake in Bladon Jets, and will develop this very advanced technology as a medium-term aspiration that will play a part in Jaguars of the future.

To bring Project C-X75 to showroom reality within the timescales of a conventional model programme, an equally innovative powertrain had to be developed. The road-going supercar will use a state-of-the-art, small-capacity, highly-boosted internal combustion engine with one powerful electric motor at each axle.

“The engine’s compact size allows it to be mounted low in the car for optimum weight distribution and to retain the concept’s stunning silhouette. This will make the Jaguar C-X75 a bona fide hybrid supercar capable of silent electric running with an extensive EV range in excess of 50km,” explained Bob Joyce, Group Engineering Director, Jaguar Land Rover.

When C-X75’s motors and combustion engine combine, it will be one of the fastest production cars in the world, with a sub-three second 0-60mph time and a top speed in excess of 200mph. Crucially, this performance will be generated alongside incredibly low emissions, with a target of less than 99g/km CO₂, thanks to Project C-X75’s lightweight construction and cutting-edge powertrain technology.

Williams F1 has been at the forefront of motorsport engineering for three decades. The project engagement on Jaguar C-X75 is testament to the team’s ambitions and will bring together two leading lights of the UK motoring industry.

“Our new association with Jaguar Land Rover provides us with an exciting opportunity to work with one of the motoring world’s most famous and iconic brands,” said Sir Frank Williams, Chairman of Williams F1. “Williams has always considered itself an engineering company and so this project will allow us to combine our technical expertise to create something truly exceptional.”

Jaguar C-X75 will redefine the customer experience, and will set new standards in sales and after-sales services that will be recreated across the range in the future. Only 250 examples will be built, each costing between £700,000 - £900,000 depending on market and local taxes.

“Never before has the company launched such an ambitious, world-beating vehicle programme,” said Carl-Peter Forster, CEO Tata Motors. “This is the Jaguar of the future. The opportunity for innovation like this in the UK is part of the reason Tata Motors invested in Jaguar, and it’s fantastic that products like the C-X75 can become reality.”

From today Jaguar will be taking expressions of interest via its website www.jaguar.com

-03  May 2011

The new Jaguar XF saloon, XK sports coupé and flagship Jaguar XJ all make their debut at the New York Auto Show 2011. Substantial changes and improvements across the range bring performance, refinement and economy to new levels, while fresh design enhancements strengthen the contemporary appeal of Jaguar’s latest line-up.

The XF, which has won more than 80 awards around the world for both its performance and styling, bears an appearance that bring it in line with the flagship XJ. The supercharged XFR features further uniquely dramatic design enhancements that signal the performance available in this potent range-topper.

The 2012 model year XK builds on the car’s award-winning reputation as a high-performance sporting GT. A new range-topping variant, the XKR-S, creates a new performance flagship for Jaguar by becoming its most powerful production car ever, capable of reaching 300kph and 0-100kph in 4.4 seconds. Purposeful cosmetic alterations to the front and rear are made to the entire XK range, bringing its visual appeal right up to date, while further personalisation options are available to both the car’s performance and styling through a series of special order upgrade packages. New interior options will allow the discerning driver to emphasise either the luxury or performance aspects of the XK’s nature.

For the flagship Jaguar XJ luxury saloon, a suite of enhancements to the interior and options list includes a new Rear Seat Comfort package, which incorporates electric recline, lumbar adjustment and massage functions to reinforce the ultimate executive limousine experience.

These three cars are the result of a design and technology revolution at Jaguar, led by award-winning Design Director Ian Callum, the architect of the company’s future success:

“The world has been introduced to an entirely new generation of Jaguars in the past few years. With the new product range, today’s Jaguar is at full-strength for the first time. The 2012 XK, XF and XJ are design-led products that break new boundaries. We believe our cars resonate with customers on an emotional level and that’s reflected both in the way they drive and the way they look.”

PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS

• Contemporary exterior echoes flagship XJ
• Interior with cutting-edge technology
• Power train offering superior performance and economy

• Revised sporting GT with dramatic design enhancements
• 300kph (186mph) XKR-S tops the range
• New option packs emphasize luxury and sporting personality

• All-aluminium flagship offers unrivalled performance and luxury
• Lightweight construction delivers superior agility and economy
• New Rear Seat Comfort package offers sumptuous limousine experience

The complete Jaguar range is available at Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC, the sole Jaguar importer in the Sultanate of Oman. More details can be obtained by visiting their showrooms at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar or Salalah.

-03  May 2011

During the technical seminar on Drainage Systems at Grand Hyatt on 17th April 2011 Polypipe Gulf FZE LLC the manufacturers of Terrain (UK) brand announced the appointment of MHD LLCs Project and Building Materials Division as their official distribution partners in Oman.

Terrain Drainage Systems have an enviable reputation across the Gulf Region spanning over five decades and are well known for both quality and reliability. Manufactured in UK, all the systems fully confirm to British Standards and are kite-marked. As you would expect from leading companies technical support is locally available providing advice from design through to installation.

Terrain has a range of soil and waste systems for residential and commercial application available with an extensive range of pipes and fittings in PVC, high density polyethylene and polypropylene to suit almost every application.

The systems are lighter and stronger than traditional material and is easier to handle and quicker to install with great deal of corrosion resistance and is maintenance free.

Shenzhen, China – The BYD stand at the 2011 Shanghai International Automobile Industry Exhibition displayed its full lineup of models, including the F0, F3, F3R, F6, G3, G3R, L3, M6, G6 1.5Ti and S6 and the new energy vehicles F3DM and e6. The BYD G6 1.5Ti will hold its global premiere and BYD’s first full-size SUV- the S6, was also revealed at this year’s auto show before its launch in the Chinese market in the month of May.

At this year’s Shanghai Auto Show, BYD comes up with the environmental-friendly concept of “Technology, Green, Tomorrow”. Besides the traditional petrol engine vehicle exhibition area, the 1,000 m2 BYD stand also consisted of the new energy vehicle exhibition area and the safety and intelligence exhibition area. Several safety and intelligence technological achievements from BYD were displayed in this section, which demonstrated the development of future vehicle configuration.

World Premiere Model at 2011 Shanghai Auto Show-BYD G6 1.5Ti

Developed & based on the existing BYD models, the G6Ti is composed of advanced designs in many aspects, especially the Ti + DCT technology.

Compared with vehicles with the same displacement, the G6, equipped with the 1.5Ti all-aluminum alloy Turbocharged Direct Injection engine and 6-Speed DCT Tiptronic Dual-Clutch Transmission, can provide stronger power output and higher torque at the same engine speed, which ensures excellent performance. Moreover, due to the highly efficient use of fuel, the G6 with the turbocharged engine is more energy-efficient and environmental-friendly compared with naturally-aspirated vehicles with power at the same level. The DCT has several driving modes. In the Sport Mode, the electronic shift control program allows the driver to enjoy a sports car-like driving experience.

BYD’s First full size SUV- The S6

After three-years of research and development, BYD is launching its first SUV - the S6. With upscale features and intelligent technology, the S6 is designed to be the compact SUV of choice for drivers with energetic lifestyles who need a responsive and sporty vehicle with plenty of utility and leading-edge styling. BYD plans to launch the S6 in the Chinese market in this May.

Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC is the sole authorized importer for BYD cars in the sultanate of Oman. The BYD F3 model is available from the MHD LLC showrooms at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar and Salalah. Along with a starting price of RO 3495 the other advantages include a 5 Years/ 120,000 KM warranty & 5 years AAA roadside assistance. More details are also available on 24490073

-16  April 2011

The automotive division of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC has delivered 14 specially modified Ashok Leyland buses to the Muscat Municipality. All these buses were specially modified at the Ashok Leyland manufacturing plant in Ras Al Khaima, UAE as per specifications provided by the Muscat Municipality. The modified buses can now carry 50 passengers plus tools & equipment in a separate section to ensure complete safety. The buses have been painted in a new colour scheme launched by the Muscat Municipality and also display the web address of the Muscat Municipality (www.mm.gov.om) prominently on both sides of the buses.

The buses were handed over to Eng. Khamis Amour Sultan Al Sinedi, Director Workshop, Muscat Municipality by Mr. David Aziz, Director Automotive, MHD LLC.

Speaking on the occasion Eng. Khamis Amour Sultan Al Sinedi commented, “We are very satisfied with the Ashok Leyland buses. They have been modified and delivered exactly as per our specifications”.

Mr. David Aziz, Director Automotive, MHD LLC also expressed his desire to further extend the Ashok Leyland business relationship with Muscat Municipality.

Ashok Leyland, the Hinduja Group Flagship, is one of the leaders in the transport solutions industry in India. Offering a world class range of trucks, buses, special application vehicles and engines Ashok Leyland reaches millions across 40 countries worldwide.

Ashok Leyland has closed the Financial Year ended March 31st, 2011 by posting all-time high sales and production numbers. The annual sales volume of the company showed a growth of 47%. While the domestic market registered an increase of 45%, exports moved up 72% over the previous year.

Ashok Leyland is represented in Oman by Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC. The Ashok Leyland buses & trucks are available from MHD LLC showrooms in Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah. After sales facilities are also available from all these locations.

-09  April 2011

MHD Automotive has rolled out a number of branded BYD F3 test drive cars at its various showrooms across the country. The prominent branding in English & Arabic on all four sides of the car will make them instantly recognizable as BYD cars and allow the customers to put the car in their shopping list. The test drive cars are available in both manual & automatic models so that customers can test drive a BYD of their preference.

The BYD F3 features a stylish front grill and chrome headlamps. Color coded bumpers and rear view mirrors give it an elegant & stylish outlook. The car is powered with a fuel efficient 1.6 Litre Mitsubishi engine with a 4 speed transmission for the automatic model & a 5 speed transmission for the manual. Both the manual & automatic models offer power assisted steering, remote central locking, power windows & power rear view mirrors along with stereo systems featuring MP3 inputs. The F3 automatic version further offers rear parking sensors, leather seats, leather steering wheel with audio controls & a wood finish interior. The BYD F3 is available from RO.3495 onwards in the Sultanate of Oman.

The BYD F3 car comes with a 5 Year/ 120,000 KM Warranty and 5 Years AAA roadside assistance. With Showrooms & Service centers at Azaiba/ Sur/ Sohar & Salalah and well trained Omani sales & after sales team the automotive division of MHD LLC is well equipped to meet the requirements of all its customers.

-09  April 2011

Land Rover employees at the Company’s Halewood manufacturing plant in Merseyside are celebrating an important milestone achievement - the production of the 250,000th LR2.

Production of the LR2 began in 2007 and on March 28th, the plant’s 250,000th LR2 has been driven off the line. Land Rover is also celebrating a growing demand for Halewood’s award winning model as retail sales for the popular model are up 22%, year to date (Apr 2010 – Feb 2011) compared with the same 11 month period in 2009/2010.

Halewood operations director Richard Else, commented: “This milestone achievement and the increasing sales for LR2 highlights just how important this vehicle is, not just to Halewood but also for the regional and UK economy - around 70% of LR2’s produced at Halewood are exported overseas. I’d like to thank our flexible and highly skilled workforce and congratulate the Halewood team on this superb achievement.”

The 2011 LR2 is available with a refined 3.2 litre engine offering a power output of 233 BHP. With class-leading on and off-road performance, featuring Terrain Response™, a premium cabin, improved fuel economy and an affordable cost of ownership the LR2 is now available from RO. 11,950 onwards in the Sultanate of Oman.

For more information or to arrange a test drive visit the showrooms of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah or log onto www.mhdoman.com .

-22  March 2011

Jaguar diversifies its flagship portfolio

Jaguar is launching a new edition of its award-winning XJ large premium sedan, powered by its proven 3.0-litre V6 petrol engine. This latest addition broadens the appeal of the XJ, allowing Jaguar to compete in a new segment of 6-cylinder full size luxury sedans.

Said Robin Colgan, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover MENA: “It is a point of pride for us that this new derivative has been developed as a response to requests from MENA, China and Russia. The redesigned XJ has already won over 20 international awards and generated rave reviews. It’s now time to broaden the XJ offering to suit the specific needs of this market.”

This petrol V6 engine has been tried and tested in the class-leading XF sports saloon, and offers a commendable blend of performance and economy. The 3.0-litre engine boasts four valves per cylinder, quad overhead camshafts, variable cam phasing (VCP) technology and variable geometry air intakes.

The new unit will be available on both long and short wheelbase XJs, with the drivetrain reserved for the MENA, China and Russia markets where demand is strongest.

Launched in 2010, the new XJ introduced a bold new design direction for Jaguar and instantly won acclaim around the world. Jaguar is famed for its innovation, particularly in the luxury car sector, and in 2003 pioneered the use of lightweight aluminum construction with the X350 generation XJ. Today’s XJ offers a weight saving of up to 150kg over its rivals by developing on the same technology. This has allowed Jaguar to fit its compact, lightweight 3.0-litre petrol V6.

Both car and engine have been extensively reworked for the new application in order to meet Jaguar’s high standards of refinement, luxury and driver appeal. An acoustic package for the engine bulkhead attenuates NVH levels, allowing the XJ to transport driver and passengers in hushed refinement.

The XJ is also renowned for its dynamic abilities and the engine and transmission have received specific attention in order to boost driveability and low speed responsiveness. The car’s construction not only improves agility and performance but also fuel economy, the XJ achieving 10.9 litres per 100km (25.9mpg) and emits just 272 g/km of CO2.

This new XJ offers all the luxury and refinement expected of Jaguar’s flagship and is available in Luxury and Premium Luxury trim levels according to market.

The new XJ is now available at the showrooms of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC, the sole Jaguar importer in the Sultanate of Oman.

The display of MG, BYD, Luxgen & CMC vehicles set up by the automotive division of MHD LLC at the Muscat Festival venue in Qurum Garden is drawing major attention from the visitors to the festival. Set up in a prominent location close to the lake the display consists of a range of vehicles ranging from BYD & MG saloon cars, Luxgen SUV’s & MPV’s to CMC Veryca Freezer & Station Wagons.

Visitors to the MHD Automotive display will have the opportunity to obtain the details on the BYD F3 range of saloon cars which offer the best features at a lowest price of RO.3495. The MG range comprising of the MG 550 and MG750 saloon cars offer British style & elegance at very competitive prices. The CMC Station wagon available with 5 & 7 seater capacity & the CMC Freezer with a 700 KG payload offers high reliability with a warranty stretching to 3 years/ 60,000 Kms.

The Muscat festival has also provided an opportunity to the local residents to get a sneak preview of the Luxgen SUV & MPV vehicles which are to be launched soon in the Sultanate of Oman. Both the Luxgen vehicles offer a host of new innovative features which will vow the automotive enthusiasts in the country. LUXGEN is a pioneer in the integration of “intelligent technology” and it will bring the concept of smart personal transportation to the Sultanate of Oman.

The sales staff manning the display are actively providing details on all the brands and booking test drives from the MHD Automotive showroom in Azaiba. Special Muscat Festival deals including finance options are also being worked out for all customers. These attractive deals will be available for the entire duration of the Muscat festival.

-5 January 2011

The all-new daring Volvo S60 has been launched across the GCC with an online campaign on major websites including Yahoo, Facebook, MSN Messenger, Hotmail, Maktoob ( Arabic version of Yahoo), Assayyarat , Drive Arabia etc. The objective was to build awareness around the new Volvo S60 and drive users to the microsite- www.letsplays60.com to play the tailor-made game and book test drives on the new Volvo S60.

The top three scorers in Oman have won exciting prizes. The first prize including a two night stay for a couple at the six star Al Husn hotel in a Deluxe Seaview room has been won by Mr. Ibrahim Hamed Ahmad Nasr, the 2nd prize consisting of an apple IPAD has been won by Dr. Humaid Awadh Humaid Al Wahshi and the third prize comprising of a Flower bath followed by Aroma Vitality & Body Scrub for two at Chi, the Spa has been won by Ms. Fatma Mohamed Salim Al Harthy. The winners will also be provided with test drives in the all new Volvo S60.

The prizes were given away to the winners during a press conference at the MHD Volvo showroom by Mr. Tomas Ernberg, Regional Managing Director, Volvo Cars Middle East and Mr. David Aziz, Director Automotive, MHD LLC.

The Volvo S60 is available from all the showrooms of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah. More details on the Volvo range of cars can be obtained by calling them on exclusive toll free number 800-74747 available for Volvo customers in the Sultanate of Oman.

-5 January 2011

The stunning all-new Volvo S60 has been hailed as the Saloon Car of the Year 2010, at the Car Middle East Awards. The awards, which honour the best new cars of 2010, and also the biggest achievers of the year in the motoring and motorsports arena, has run for the last three consecutive years and took place in front of a host of the industry’s experts.

The Volvo S60 debuted in the Middle East in October and already its seriously stylish and slightly cheeky persona is making waves across the automotive industry. The S60 topped the BMW 5-Series into runner up position making its recent launch in the region particularly triumphant. Every car that went on sale between the beginning of December 2009 and end of November 2010 was automatically nominated for the awards with 21 winners in 12 different categories. The winning car was chosen by the judges as the best new car of the year in their selected categories leaving countless others in their wake.

The all-new Volvo S60 had its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show on the 2nd March this year and it makes its entry into one of the automotive world’s toughest segments backed by an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms. The all-new S60 has been sculpted to move you – both physically and emotionally.

“The sporty design delivers a visual promise of enthusiastic driving characteristics and I can assure you that the all-new S60 truly lives up to that promise. Its driving properties are better than those of any previous Volvo. What is more, the car’s innovative new technologies help you become both a better and a safer driver,” says Volvo Cars ME Marketing Manager, Roula Beiruty. With its all-new Volvo S60, Volvo Cars is advancing its position in one of the car world’s most competitive segments: CD Premium.

“The competition is razor-sharp and the customers know exactly what they want with particular emphasis on emotional stance, sporty design and dynamic driving properties. Success in this segment means a lot for the brand’s image and we are convinced that the all-new S60 will be one of the strongest contenders,” says Roula Beiruty.

The first-generation Volvo S60 was launched in 2000. It soon became Volvo Cars’ most popular model, enjoying worldwide acclaim and peak sales of 110,000 cars in 2002. In total, there are about 600,000 S60s on world’s roads today.

The number ‘60’ in the Volvo model range nowadays indicates their sportiest models. The XC60 was the first step. Now, with the all-new S60, they are placing themselves right on the car enthusiasts’ radar screen.

The Volvo S60 is available from all the showrooms of Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar & Salalah. More details on the Volvo range of cars can be obtained by calling them on exclusive toll free number 800-74747 available for Volvo customers in the Sultanate of Oman.

-1 January 2011

After 75 years of creating beautiful fast cars, Jaguar has proven that it is still at the forefront of today’s luxury car industry. The niche premium automotive manufacturer swept two of the top accolades at the prestigious Car Middle East Awards, held recently at the Westin Hotel. The Jaguar CX75 was proffered the ‘Design and Technology’ award whilst the all-new Jaguar XJ won the prize for the ‘Executive Car of the Year’.

Since its official launch and regional debut at the Dubai International Motorshow in December last year, the all-new XJ has generated rave reviews from Jaguar customers, car enthusiasts and media. The all-new XJ, which underwent a complete redesign by Jaguar Design Director Ian Callum, has also garnered a string of awards including UK Top Gear's ‘Luxury Car of the Year’ and ‘Best High Performance Luxury Car of the Year’ by Automobile Middle East magazine. The Car Middle East Awards judging panel unanimously deemed it the best ‘Executive Car of the Year’, beating the Audi A8 and BMW 5-series.

Designed as a four-wheel drive range-extended electric two-seater supercar, the CX75 stunned industry pundits and car lovers when it was unveiled at this year’s Paris Motorshow. Capable of reaching 330km/h and sprinting from 0-100km/h in just 3.4 seconds, the CX75 is powered by Four powerful 145kW (195bhp) electric motors and two state-of-the-art micro gas-turbines. The CX75 blew the judges away with its sleek avant-garde design and use of intelligent technology to delivery performance without compromise.

“The all-new Jaguar XJ has grabbed global attention since its launch earlier this year. This award from one of the most respected publications in the Middle East demonstrates the strong following and appreciation that the XJ enjoys in this region. This is a fantastic way to cap off our 75th year of creating cars that are both blisteringly fast and incredibly beautiful,” commented Robin Colgan, Managing Director of Jaguar Land Rover MENA.

The Jaguar XJ is available at Mohsin Haider Darwish LLC, the sole Jaguar importer in the Sultanate of Oman. More details can be obtained by visiting their showrooms at Azaiba, Sur, Sohar or Salalah or by calling them on 24523200.