Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mirror-finish Audi S5 in Moscow parking garage [w/POLL]]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-mirror-finish-audi-s5-in-moscow-parking-garage-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-mirror-finish-audi-s5-in-moscow-parking-garage-w-poll/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/22/video-mirror-finish-audi-s5-in-moscow-parking-garage-w-poll/#commentsFiled under: ,

All Dubai'd out Audi S5 in Moscow - click above image to watch the video

When we were in Frankfurt last week and saw the mirror-finish Audi R8 we thought we were so darn clever because we came up with the phrase, "All Dubai'd out" to describe its shiny, reflective surfaces. A little etymology if you will. The phrase, "All murdered out" has recently entered the car bloggin' lexicon to describe cars that are black-on-black-on-black. In that case, one might say, "Dang, the Brabus Black Baron is all murdered out." And we thought we had a sure fire meme/trope on our hands with "all Dubai'd out." Only we forgot one little thing: Moscow.

Yes, this most certainly is a video of a chrome-look Audi S5 sitting in an underground parking lot. But is it all Dubai'd out, or all Moscow'd out? It's these kind of thoughts that kept us out of the really good schools. Anyhow, the reflective Audi eventually leaves the garage, cruises around Moscow blasting Russian gangsta rap (which is admittedly kinda cool) before stopping to get ogled by some leather jacket wearin', G-Wagon drivin' Russian mobster types. Then, of course by the end, the mirrored S5 can be seen drag racing a solid gold M5. No, really. Full video and poll after the jump.

[Source: Smotra.ru]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mirror-finish Audi S5 in Moscow parking garage [w/POLL]

VIDEO: Mirror-finish Audi S5 in Moscow parking garage [w/POLL] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Audi S5AudiS5ChromeChrome Audi S5ChromeAudiS5DubaiMirror-FinishMoscowS5Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/09/16/frankfurt-2009-yes-that-is-a-mirror-finish-audi-r8-5-2-v10/#comments
Mirror-Finish Audi R8 - Click above for high-res image gallery
Oh how they laughed when we suggested chroming an Audi R8. Of course, our plan was to use a couple of rattle cans and a few rolls of blue tape to git er done. Right before screaming, "Hey y'all, watch this!" and launching the R8 off a cliff. But we're a bunch of crude Americans, not nearly as stylish as our European pals that don ties to take a shower. Regardless, Audi went ahead and pulled the shiny metal trigger. The all Dubai'd-out R8 now joins the ranks of such notable taste-setters as the Bugatti Veyron Autostadt special edition, gold-mirror-finish Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, Chrome SLR, etc. Yeah, we're talking smack. Partly out of jealousy, partly out of thinking what kind of a royal jackass would drive around in a mirrored car? A Kanye West-sized one, we'd think. Anyhow, "enjoy" the gallery.


Gallery: Frankfurt 2009: Chrome Audi R8 5.2 V10


Frankfurt 2009: Yes, that is a mirror-finish Audi R8 5.2 V10 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AudiAudi R8Audi R8 5.2 V10Audi R8 V10AudiR8AudiR85.2V10AudiR8V10Chrome Audi R8Chrome R8ChromeAudiR8ChromeR8DubaiFrankfurtFrankfurt 2009Frankfurt Auto ShowFrankfurt Motor ShowFrankfurt2009FrankfurtAutoShowFrankfurtMotorShowMirrored Audi R8Mirrored R8MirroredAudiR8MirroredR8R8 V10R8V10Wed, 16 Sep 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai!]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/08/reader-spy-nearly-undisguised-next-gen-hyundai-sonata-snapped-i/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2011 Hyundai Sonata spy shots - Click above for image gallery

One of our loyal readers was vacationing in Dubai when he happened upon this nearly undisguised and totally unattended 2011 Hyundai Sonata mule. Sammy_R-Gti of assayarat.com explains that he was driving around on vacation and stopped to observe mid-day prayer at a mosque. When he emerged from said house of prayer, he spied the car parked outside of a neighboring spa resort (perhaps some engineers were taking a much-deserved break?), and our man was able to rattle off the photos seen here. Because Sammy_R-Gti (correctly) figured that whoever was with the car probably wouldn't want him photographing their quarry, our man didn't have time to take it all in, but he did gain perhaps the best look yet at Hyundai's pivotal new sedan.

As expected, the roofline and short rear deck indicates that the Korean automaker is going for a much more rakish look, adopting the 'four-door coupe' aesthetic that is so in vogue these days. Unlike earlier spy shots, Sammy has managed to score an almost completely undisguised look at the car's Lexus ES350-like headlamps and its simple three-bar front grille, as well as new details about the sheetmetal's contouring. Judging by the fact that this prototype was fitted with relatively high-profile tires and modestly sized steel wheels with covers, we're guessing that it is a base model.

Check out the gallery of images below. Thanks for the shots, Sammy!


Gallery: 2011 Hyundai Sonata - spy shots


[Source: Sammy_R-Gti of assayyarat.com]

Reader Spy: Nearly undisguised next-gen Hyundai Sonata snapped in Dubai! originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 Hyundai2011 Hyundai Sonata2011 sonata2011Hyundai2011HyundaiSonata2011Sonatadubaifour door coupefour-door coupeFour-doorCoupeFourDoorCoupehyundaihyundai sonataHyundaiSonatasonataspy shotspy shotsSpyShotSpyShotsWed, 08 Jul 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Chevrolet Camaro launches in the Middle East, stops to pose for photos]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/chevrolet-camaro-launches-in-the-middle-east-stops-to-pose-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/chevrolet-camaro-launches-in-the-middle-east-stops-to-pose-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/chevrolet-camaro-launches-in-the-middle-east-stops-to-pose-for/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


2010 Chevrolet Camaro in the Middle East - Click above for high-res image gallery

Despite being unusually thrifty for a muscle car, we can't help but think that Chevrolet's new Camaro is secretly happy at the prospect of being released into the Middle East, land of wide-open roads and discount crude. General Motors has just announced that the Camaro will pack its bags and head to the Middle East later this summer, where it already has a wait list at some dealers.

The market will receive two models to start - the 3.6-liter V6 model (in LT trim) and the fire-breathing 6.2-liter V8 SS, the latter of which will be available with the buyer's choice of a six-speed manual or automatic gearbox.

For our Autoblog Middle East friends, you can configure your new Bowtie at www.camaroarabia.com, and for the rest of us, there's a gigantic new high-res gallery of the Camaro checking out the local sights and the obligatory press release after the jump.

Let the countdown to the first sighting of a reflective gold painted Camaro SS begin!


Gallery: 2010 Chevy Camaro launches in the Middle East

Continue reading Chevrolet Camaro launches in the Middle East, stops to pose for photos

Chevrolet Camaro launches in the Middle East, stops to pose for photos originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 Camaro2010CamaroCamaroCamaro LTCamaro SSCamaroLtCamaroSsChevroletChevyChevy CamaroChevyCamaroDubaiGMMiddle EastMiddleEastWed, 10 Jun 2009 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Swiss-tuned McLaren SLR Red Gold Dream ends up in... yes, Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/swiss-tuned-mclaren-slr-red-gold-dream-ends-up-in-yes-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/swiss-tuned-mclaren-slr-red-gold-dream-ends-up-in-yes-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/28/swiss-tuned-mclaren-slr-red-gold-dream-ends-up-in-yes-dubai/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for high-res images of the Ueli Anliker-tuned McLaren SLR Red Gold Dream in Dubai

We know to expect the unexpected when it comes to aftermarket work in certain Middle Eastern enclaves. But this... this is, well, this is something that even Tim Burton would have to dismiss as just too outrageous. Part of what makes this car even more interesting is that it was the product of Swiss tuning firm Ueli Anliker Design, and as such, it is called the Anliker McLaren SLR 999 Red Gold Dream.

What was once a standard SLR (may God have mercy on its soul) now has a cow catcher up front, a Mustang wing out back, and 24 karat gold and rubies plastered throughout. We would love to say more about it, but we're having... trouble... concentrating... right now... So have a look at the high-res gallery of photos below, and please don't let Mr. Anliker near your car. Thanks for the tip, Mel


Gallery: Ueli Anliker SLR in Dubai


[Source: Supercars Dubai]

Swiss-tuned McLaren SLR Red Gold Dream ends up in... yes, Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupedubaimclaren slrMclarenSlrmiddle eastMiddleEastsupercarueli anliker designUeliAnlikerDesignTue, 28 Apr 2009 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Piquet Jr. does donuts in his Renault F1 car... at Ski Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-piquet-jr-does-donuts-in-his-renault-f1-car-at-ski-du/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-piquet-jr-does-donuts-in-his-renault-f1-car-at-ski-du/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/17/video-piquet-jr-does-donuts-in-his-renault-f1-car-at-ski-du/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for the video of Nelson Piquet Jr. putting F1 on ice

Nelson Piquet Jr., Renault's other driver, recently took a Renault R28 F1 car out for a spin in the snows of Ski Dubai. We're not sure if it's the same chassis that Ben Sulayem crashed at another event in Dubai, but if it is the Renault mechanics earned their money. One thing is certain, though: Ben Sulayem is a very good driver, but the fact that he crashed the car on a dry track while Nelsinho keeps it under control doing donuts in the snow shows you just good the average F1 driver is. Follow the jump to watch the vid.

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Piquet Jr. does donuts in his Renault F1 car... at Ski Dubai

VIDEO: Piquet Jr. does donuts in his Renault F1 car... at Ski Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 17 Apr 2009 13:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaietcf1formula 1Formula1middle eastMiddleEastmotorsportsnelson piquetNelsonPiquetrenaultrenault f1renault f1 teamRenaultF1RenaultF1TeamvideoFri, 17 Apr 2009 13:27:00 EST<![CDATA[The Golden Arches: Gilded McMerc spotted in - you guessed it - Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/the-golden-arches-gilded-mcmerc-spotted-in-you-guessed-it-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/the-golden-arches-gilded-mcmerc-spotted-in-you-guessed-it-d/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/16/the-golden-arches-gilded-mcmerc-spotted-in-you-guessed-it-d/#commentsFiled under: ,



Redefining the term "enough is enough", the owner of this car is said to have had his SLR gold-chromed. The strangest part is that, according to reports, this is actually the same Mercedes SLR McLaren that was previously spied in Dubai with a silver-chrome treatment. We're not sure about the accuracy of this model considering it has a different rear spoiler, different wheels (which have also been gold-chromed) and darker taillight frame like those on later versions of the Anglo-Saxon supercar, not to mention a different license plate... although the car also reportedly belongs to the owner of a UAE license plate registry, so anything's possible.

The sad reality is that someone, whether it's the same guy or not, looked at a chromed McMerc and thought, Yeah, but what if it were plated in gold? Sure makes the gold-plated Veyron and Phantom DHC sent to the same region seem like the epitome of good taste.

[Source: GTSpirit.com]

The Golden Arches: Gilded McMerc spotted in - you guessed it - Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 08:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chromechrome slrChromeSlrdubaiemiratesgoldgold slrgold-platedGoldSlrgulfmclarenmclaren slrMclarenSlrmercedesmercedes slrmercedes slr mclarenmercedes-benzmercedes-benz slrmercedes-benz slr mclarenMercedes-benzSlrMercedes-benzSlrMclarenMercedesSlrMercedesSlrMclarenuaeunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesThu, 16 Apr 2009 08:31:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Ben Sulayem crashes Renault F1 car while racing Ford GT in Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/video-ben-sulayem-crashes-renault-f1-car-while-racing-ford-gt-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/video-ben-sulayem-crashes-renault-f1-car-while-racing-ford-gt-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/09/video-ben-sulayem-crashes-renault-f1-car-while-racing-ford-gt-i/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to view the video after the jump

Ben Sulayem (or Mohammed bin Sulayem), the UAE championship rally driver hailing from Dubai, was involved in a high-speed crash earlier today at the Dubai Autodrome. Sulayem was racing a Ford GT in the Renault R28 F1 car ahead of the Renault F1 Roadshow this weekend and lost control, shunting the multi-million dollar racer into a wall. According to reports from the ground, the Renault was spinning its tires down the straight when it finally regained traction, causing an uneven transfer of grip and pulling the car to the right - narrowly avoiding the Ford - before it crashed into the pit wall. Sulayem walked away from the crash uninjured and the Renault is currently undergoing repairs. Hit the jump to watch a video of the crash (beware, NSFW language).

[Source: AutoMiddleEast]

Continue reading VIDEO: Ben Sulayem crashes Renault F1 car while racing Ford GT in Dubai

VIDEO: Ben Sulayem crashes Renault F1 car while racing Ford GT in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ben SulayemBenSulayemdubaidubai autodromeDubaiAutodromemohammed din sulayemMohammedDinSulayemrenault f1renault r29 f1RenaultF1RenaultR29F1videoThu, 09 Apr 2009 14:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Dubai F1 themepark reportedly delayed until "at least" next year]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/dubai-f1-themepark-reportedly-delayed-until-at-least-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/dubai-f1-themepark-reportedly-delayed-until-at-least-next-year/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/03/01/dubai-f1-themepark-reportedly-delayed-until-at-least-next-year/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click on the above picture for more images of the F1 themepark

Blaming the global economic slowdown, the builders of the first F1-X theme park in Dubai are saying their project is delayed until at least next year. The park was to become part of the "Dubailand" project that included the Dubai Autodrome, luxury condominiums and a business park (think of it like a Disney World for the Persian Gulf). However, banks and other financial institutions have pulled funding, putting the brakes on the half-built project. Union Properties, the company tasked with this venture, insists the project will eventually be completed... although it will obviously miss its planned opening originally set for later this year.

Gallery: F1-X Theme Park Dubai


[Source: The National]

Dubai F1 themepark reportedly delayed until "at least" next year originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Mar 2009 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AutodromeDubaiDubai AutodromeDubaiAutodromeF1 Amusement Parkf1-xf1-x dubaiF1-xDubaiF1AmusementParkUnion PropertiesUnionPropertiesSun, 01 Mar 2009 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Why have there been 3,000 cars abandoned at the Dubai airport?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/18/why-have-there-been-3-000-cars-abandoned-at-the-dubai-airport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/18/why-have-there-been-3-000-cars-abandoned-at-the-dubai-airport/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/18/why-have-there-been-3-000-cars-abandoned-at-the-dubai-airport/#commentsFiled under: ,



You had to know it was going to end. Dubai's storied boom is starting to falter as the worldwide economic woes catch up with the nation's real estate and financial services-fueled good times. Abandoned cars are beginning to pile up at Dubai International Airport as overextended expatriates flee. Dubai throws debtors in the pokey, and if you lose your job, they yank your visa; two good reasons to drive to the airport and leave your maxed out credit cards on the passenger seat with an "I'm sorry" note. 3,000 cars are reportedly stockpiled at the airport so far, and with reports of 1,500 visas a day being cancelled, there may be a lot of dusty, cut rate luxury cars available for closeout prices.

[Source: Gadling, Photo: Bryan Denton/NYT]

Why have there been 3,000 cars abandoned at the Dubai airport? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 18 Feb 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaidubai abandoned carsdubai airportdubai economydubai international capitalDubaiAbandonedCarsDubaiAirportDubaiEconomyDubaiInternationalCapitalWed, 18 Feb 2009 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Gold(finger's) Mercedes C63 spotted in... where else? Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/gold-fingers-mercedes-c63-spotted-in-where-else-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/gold-fingers-mercedes-c63-spotted-in-where-else-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/01/23/gold-fingers-mercedes-c63-spotted-in-where-else-dubai/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the gold C63

This United Arab Emirates-registered gold-mirror-finish Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG was caught at the Bling on Wheels Show, otherwise known as the valet area at the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. While we have nothing untoward to say about someone who decks out his/her ride in any manner desired, we are always intrigued when someone looks to have spent the worth of a car - on top of the price of the car itself - on "beautification."

There is some debate as to whether this is a real paint job or a wrap, but parking your gold-wrapped C63 next to a genuinely chrome SLR would be shamefully ludicrous. A C63 AMG goes for about 300,000 AED (about $82,000 USD). Unless gold paint bubbles out of the ground as well, a liquid gold paint job has to cost a good portion of that. And all for a C63? Really? We won't ask whether it looks good... we'll just guide you to the gallery of high-res images below. Hat tip to AB reader Chad.

Gallery: Mercedes C63 in Dubai Gold


[Source: MB World]

Gold(finger's) Mercedes C63 spotted in... where else? Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>c63c63 amgC63Amgcustomizationdubaimall of the emiratesMallOfTheEmiratesmercedesmercedes c63 amgMercedesC63Amgmiddle eastMiddleEastpaint jobPaintJobsedanspecialuaeunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesFri, 23 Jan 2009 12:29:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Stealth 1,000 HP Nissan Patrol]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/video-stealth-1-000-hp-nissan-patrol/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/video-stealth-1-000-hp-nissan-patrol/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/12/18/video-stealth-1-000-hp-nissan-patrol/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above for image gallery and follow the jump for the video
We just told you about Nissan's next-gen Patrol SUV and the fact that it might be coming to North America. While rumors have the engine options including a first-ever V8 for the model, the big news is the diesel engine co-developed with Renault that's slated to put out 405 ft-lbs. of torque. While that sounds enticing, apparently that won't be good enough for a certain impatient Dubai businessman. He went to tuner HKS and had them turn up the wick a bit on a current-generation Patrol while he's waiting for the new one.

The result is more than 1,000 PS, or roughly 1,000 HP. And the best part is that the exterior remains mostly stock looking, though the giant hood scoop is admittedly a tipoff. We'd suggest tracking down some Pirelli Scorpions at least, though they're not likely to be as useful for track duty. Sure, a Bugatti Veyron might be more stylish and yes, it has about the same horsepower. Heck, it even has all-wheel drive, but it doesn't have nearly the ground clearance or the cargo room as this Patrol, so the decision was obvious. Apparently, this stealth bomber SUV was just featured in an issue of Option Magazine in Japan. If anyone has more details, please share. Until then, check out the gallery and the video after the jump.

Gallery: HKS Nissan Patrol


[Source: The Real JDM]

Continue reading VIDEO: Stealth 1,000 HP Nissan Patrol

VIDEO: Stealth 1,000 HP Nissan Patrol originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Dec 2008 14:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1000 horsepower1000 hp1000 hp patrol1000Horsepower1000Hp1000HpPatrolDubaiforced-inductionhksNissannissan patrolNissanPatrolPatrolsuperchargerSUVtunerTuningturboThu, 18 Dec 2008 14:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Most unloved BMW M6 on Earth]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/most-unloved-bmw-m6-on-earth/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/most-unloved-bmw-m6-on-earth/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/23/most-unloved-bmw-m6-on-earth/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Some cars just don't get the love they deserve. Case in point: this burgundy BMW M6 sitting under what appears to be months worth of silt. Judging from the plates, the lonely 500-hp coupe is parked in Dubai where it has seen more than its share of days (and dust clouds), but nary a wet soapy sponge. Appearing in perfect mechanical condition, the filthy deposits on the metallic paint have attracted a handful of witty passersby, many of whom have written their comments in the grime. Our personal favorite? The classic, "I wish my wife was this dirty." Thanks for the tip, Vinay!

Gallery: Dirty Dubai BMW M6


[Source: Madwhips]

Most unloved BMW M6 on Earth originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Oct 2008 12:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DirtyDirty M6DirtyM6DubaiDustFilthM6UnwashedThu, 23 Oct 2008 12:58:00 EST<![CDATA[McBling: Chrome SLR holds (food) court in Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/22/mcbling-chrome-slr-holds-food-court-in-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/22/mcbling-chrome-slr-holds-food-court-in-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/10/22/mcbling-chrome-slr-holds-food-court-in-dubai/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above for more of the chromed Mercedes SLR McLaren in Dubai

When the McLaren-Mercedes team rolled out their chrome F1 cars, everyone stood up and took notice. Pretty cool idea, even fans (and members) of other teams had to admit. No wonder then that with their own supercar out on the roads - one of only two teams with that claim - somebody has finally done the same with his own SLR. And of course, like the gold-trimmed Camry, that somebody lives in the United Arab Emirates, the sand-swept Kingdom of Bling on the shores of the Persian Gulf.

The shiny McLaren was spotted outside one of the world's largest shopping centers, the Mall of the Emirates, in Dubai, which looks to be the same place where the Pegaso edition Bugatti Veyron was spotted. The mall is currently the largest in the Middle East, at least until construction is completed on the two larger ones also being built in Dubai. We're sure it won't be long until someone parks chrome McLaren P11s, Mercedes SL63 Blacks or AMG Gullwings in front of those, too.

Gallery: Chrome SLR in Dubai

[Source: GlobalMotors.net]

McBling: Chrome SLR holds (food) court in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Oct 2008 09:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chrome mclarenchrome slrChromeMclarenChromeSlrdubaimall emiratesMallEmiratesslr mclarenSlrMclarenWed, 22 Oct 2008 09:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Gulf Partner: Renault's Persian-market, Maxima-based Safrane]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/gulf-partner-renaults-persian-market-maxima-based-safrane/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/gulf-partner-renaults-persian-market-maxima-based-safrane/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/28/gulf-partner-renaults-persian-market-maxima-based-safrane/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to view the Renault Safrane in high resolution

The Persian Gulf is fast becoming a demanding market for luxury automobiles. So demanding, in fact, that some automakers have begun creating special models just for consumption there. Just days ago we brought you news that Rolls-Royce, having already shipped a golden Drophead Coupe for one special customer, was launching a limited edition Phantom saloon called the Peony edition.

This, however, is not a special Rolls-Royce. We won't list all the ways in which it isn't a Roller, but will save your time and ours by listing instead what it shares in common. It's a luxury sedan, and it's made specially to be engulfed by the Gulf market. That's about it. The Safrane nameplate was previously used for Renault's lackluster flagship sedan, replaced by the reviled Vel Satis in 2000. So what is this exactly that has revived the name? A rebadged Samsung SM5, essentially. That vehicle is produced in an 80.1% Renault-owned joint venture in South Korea. If you're noticing some similarities with our own Nissan Maxima, you've got a keen eye, as it shares its platform with the last-gen Maxima as well as the Nissan Teana (itself available only in the Asian market).

Unless you live in Dubai, you probably won't be seeing one of these any time soon, but you can check it out in the gallery below.

Gallery: Renault Safrane


[Source: Renault via CarScoop]

Gulf Partner: Renault's Persian-market, Maxima-based Safrane originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 28 Aug 2008 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaiemiratesgulfnissan maximanissan teanaNissanMaximaNissanTeanapersian gulfPersianGulfrenaultrenault nissanrenault nissan alliancerenault safranerenault samsungRenaultNissanRenaultNissanAllianceRenaultSafraneRenaultSamsungsamsung motorssamsung sm5SamsungMotorsSamsungSm5uaeThu, 28 Aug 2008 08:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce creates special Peony edition Phantom for UAE]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/24/rolls-royce-creates-special-peony-edition-phantom-for-uae/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click to view the RR Phantom Peony edition in hi-res

Wealthy customers in the United Arab Emirates seem to have a penchant for special editions of the most expensive luxury saloons. As if it wasn't enough to get the Maybach Landaulet revealed right there on their home turn, one Arabian customer recently ordered a custom gilded Rolls-Royce Drophead. Now Rolls-Royce has followed up with a special edition of its Phantom limousine targeted specifically for the UAE.

Called the Peony edition, the bespoke Phantom borrows its name from the indigenous Asian flower that symbolizes royality in ancient Oriental culture. The car features a special two-tone pearl blue exterior and Seashell interior, emblazoned with the peony floral motif. It even comes with a complementary bottle of perfume specially crafted by Emirate fragrance specialist HIND. The special edition was created by the Rolls-Royce Bespoke Program, which does the bulk of its business with Middle Eastern customers. No word on how many will be built or how much it costs, but if there was ever a case of "if you have to ask, you can't afford it", this is it.

Gallery: Rolls-Royce Phantom Peony Edition


[Source: Motor Authority]

Rolls-Royce creates special Peony edition Phantom for UAE originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 24 Aug 2008 19:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abu dhabiAbuDhabidubaiemiratespeonypeony editionPeonyEditionphantomphantom peonyPhantomPeonyrolls roycerolls-roycerolls-royce peony editionrolls-royce phantomRolls-roycePeonyEditionRolls-roycePhantomRollsRoyceuaeunited arab emiratesUnitedArabEmiratesSun, 24 Aug 2008 19:15:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: How to do a U-Turn, Dubai style]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/07/video-how-to-do-a-u-turn-dubai-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/07/video-how-to-do-a-u-turn-dubai-style/http://www.autoblog.com/2008/08/07/video-how-to-do-a-u-turn-dubai-style/#commentsFiled under: ,


Click above to view video after the jump

Just in time for the Olympics, we have this entrant from Dubai who apparently didn't make the team for the U-turn competition was left at home to practice his talent in the streets. In diving across four lanes of traffic from a dedicated right turn lane, he gets points for elements of surprise, style, distance, grace, and follow through. We give him and his Ferrari F430 a 9.3. Follow the jump to see the video. And can anyone tell us, do they even have traffic police in Dubai? Thanks for the tip, J.D.!

Correction: We've been told from a number of readers that the location of the video above is in fact not Dubai, but Saudi Arabia.

[Source: Live Leak]

Continue reading VIDEO: How to do a U-Turn, Dubai style

VIDEO: How to do a U-Turn, Dubai style originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 07 Aug 2008 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dubaimiddle eastMiddleEastu-turnvideovideosThu, 07 Aug 2008 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[A Towering Figure: Schumacher lends name to skyscraper in Dubai]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/23/a-towering-figure-schumacher-lends-name-to-skyscraper-in-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/23/a-towering-figure-schumacher-lends-name-to-skyscraper-in-dubai/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/11/23/a-towering-figure-schumacher-lends-name-to-skyscraper-in-dubai/#commentsFiled under:

Well, it was bound to happen eventually. Michael Schumacher, a veritable landmark in motor racing history, is to become an actual landmark.

To enable Schuey to continue to tower over the rest of the field, so to speak, a German company undertaking construction projects in the Gulf emirate of Dubai is building the Michael Schumacher Business Avenue. The construction project is to be highlighted by a 29-floor dual-purpose commercial/residential tower. The champion himself is expected to fly out to Dubai - where he already has his own island - to kick-start the project, which is expected to begin construction within the next three months.

Believe it or not, Schumacher won't be the first German-speaking, former Ferrari-driving, multiple-world-championship-winning F1 driver to get a complex named after him in the Dubai development: the Niki Lauda Twin Towers are located nearby.

[Source: Motor Authority]

A Towering Figure: Schumacher lends name to skyscraper in Dubai originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 23 Nov 2007 19:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>avenuebuildingbusinessdubaischumacherskyscrapertowerFri, 23 Nov 2007 19:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Only in Dubai: Corvette fire fighter]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/13/only-in-dubai-corvette-fire-fighter/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/13/only-in-dubai-corvette-fire-fighter/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/09/13/only-in-dubai-corvette-fire-fighter/#commentsFiled under:


Dubai is fast gaining a reputation as the "Vegas of the Middle East" because of its impressive rate of development and sometimes crazy amounts of money thrown at government projects.

This time, the city's Civil Defence department has acquired a Corvette to help fight fires by being able to attend to them more quickly than ordinary vehicles. Brigadier Rashid Thani Al Matroushi, Director of Dubai Civil Defence goes on to explain that due to the Corvette's speed, the car can get vital rescue equipment to the scene of the fire, and in the case of people being trapped in cars, can help remove them.

The article doesn't go into much detail about the "special equipment" the 'Wette is fitted with, but it does mention a portable fire extinguisher, hydraulic equipment and first aid kits.

One of the primary reasons behind its development is that the distance between fire stations and accident scenes are larger than normal, so it makes sense to have a fast first response vehicle. It took a team of four people two months to develop.

It's also the latest GM product to be adapted for civil use by the Dubai authorities. Previously they've used a Hummer H2 and a fleet of Chevy Tahoes.

Thanks to Cataen for the tip!

[Source: Gulf News]

Only in Dubai: Corvette fire fighter originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 13 Sep 2007 10:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CorvetteCorvette C6CorvetteC6Dubaimiddle eastMiddleEastUAEThu, 13 Sep 2007 10:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Dubai company borrows $1.6b to build F1 theme parks]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/28/dubai-company-borrows-1-6b-to-built-f1-theme-parks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/28/dubai-company-borrows-1-6b-to-built-f1-theme-parks/http://www.autoblog.com/2007/02/28/dubai-company-borrows-1-6b-to-built-f1-theme-parks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

The Emirates are gearing up for the opening of FerrariWorld in Abu Dhabi, but they won't have the monopoly for long, it seems. Union Properties, a real estate development company based in nearby Dubai, has secured the rights from Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management to construct a series of F1 theme parks around the world.

Wait a second, a series? Not just one? That's right. Union Properties is thinking big, and spending big. The first will be built in Dubai, with construction set to begin soon with a targeted opening date in 2009... right around the same time as FerrariWorld is set to open its doors. The company anticipates signing a deal for the second park some time this year, likely to be constructed somewhere in Europe. A third park in the Far East would be the next location, but Union Properties would be wise to take things one step at a time and take a page out of the Disney playbook. Disney's theme parks steadily grew in size and number over the span of decades, and while parks in Anaheim, Orlando and Tokyo might be raking in the dough (or is that the Dow?), EuroDisney was not quite the runaway success they'd hoped for.

One thing's for sure, Union isn't cheaping out on the cost. The Dubai park is budgeted for $360 million, and the company is borrowing $1.6 billion to build 'em all. This should be interesting.

[Source: GrandPrix.com]

Dubai company borrows $1.6b to build F1 theme parks originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Feb 2007 19:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>asiadubaieasteuropefarferrarimiddlepakrparkpropertiesthemeunionworldWed, 28 Feb 2007 19:34:00 EST