Sony Ericsson’s New Jalou by Dolce and Gabbana

If you are looking for the latest style statement to flaunt with, then you should definitely have a look at Sony Ericsson’s new Jalou series by Dolce and Gabbana. This phone looks very elegant and is specially designed for women and girls who love playing with the latest fashionable gadgets. The phone is just 73mm long and will be released in the end of 2009 in three gems like colors viz Aquamarine Blue, Onyx Black and Deep Amethyst. The features of this phone are very similar to those of the original Jalou, differentiating itself because of the glittering Rose color and 24 carat gold plating. It also contains exclusive Dolce and Gabbana content like photos and videos. The clamshell also features a 2 inch QVGA display that can be turned into a mirror with the press of a button.

Dubai First’s Royale MasterCard adorned with gold and diamonds

Dubai First’s Royale MasterCard is a luxury credit card that is only available for the creme de la creme of the society. It is a limited edition with only nine pieces being handed out per day and coming with high exclusive benefits and also high exclusive materials. The card itself is quite impressive with a gold border and a genuine certificated diamond embedded in the center. This card is definitely a status symbol. The benefits you will get include shopping, fashion, restaurants, hotel, helicopter & yacht charter, polo & golf club, and more. You can't apply for the card, it is only offered to those deemed worthy of it. So don't go holding your breath for an offer

Gucci Python Tribeca Shoulder Bag

It's an extremely popular bag and selling like hot cakes. So you'd better hurry before stocks run out. It's available for $2695.

World’s Overpriced Most Bikini

Now this is something that is insane,world’s most-expensive lingerie retailed at $ 30mn is a shock to me.
Model Molly Sims flaunted this designer bikini and is residing at the centerfold of the 2006 Illustrated Sports Swimsuit issue. The bikini is packed with over 150 carats of D Flawless diamonds.

Other ornamental diamonds include:

1) 51 carat D Flawless Pear Shape
2) 30 carat D Flawless Emerald Cut
3) 15 carat D Flawless Rounds (pair)
4) Platinum-set 8 carat D Flawless Pear Shape (pair)

The NEC CRV43 monitor is every gamer's dream

The 43-inch curved monitor from CES is finally here. This is a stunning screen that will mesmerize everyone. 4 DLP monitors have been put together with an LED backlight which offers a mind-blowing response time of 0.02 seconds. It features DVI-D and HDMI 1.3 inputs and a 2880x990 resolution. It's absolutely perfect for playing some killer games. The life and color it will bring to graphics boggles the mind. Gamers are going to go crazy over the lightning fast response time. It is an ideal solution for simulation, digital imaging and command & control. It also has USB 2.0 connectivity for easy use of peripherals and front control panels. The NEC CRV43 curved display is backed by a 3-year parts and labor warranty including the backlight and it can be yours for $8000 in July 2009.

The Most Expensive Perfumes

1. Clive Christian's Imperial Majesty: $215,000 (16.90z)
2. Clive Christian's No.1: $2,150 (1oz)
3. Caron's Poivre: $2,000 (2oz)
4. Chanel's Chanel No. 5: $1,850 (15.2oz)
5. Baccarat's Les Larmes Sacrées de Thebes: $1,700 (.25oz)
6. Annick Goutal's Eau d'Hadrien: $1,500 (3.4oz)
7. Hermès' 24 Faubourg: $1,500 (1oz)
8. Shalini Parfums' Shalini: $900 (2.2oz)
9. Jean Patou's Joy: $800 (1oz)
10. JAR Parfums' Bolt of Lightning: $765 (1oz)

Golden Ferrari

Check out the picturs of this gorgeous beauty that's named "The Golden Ferrari' by Pininfarina-designed Prancing Horse model. There is no official information available on the car, all that we have is guesswork. It looks like it could be the Ferrari 599 GTB. It is styled to resemble the 1965 Ferrari 250GT NART Spyder that was designed and built by Modena coachbuilder Fantuzi for Ferrari's North American importer, Luigi Chinetti.

Protect your iPhone with the $108,880 worth “Golden Delicious” case

When I look at items like the “Golden Delicious” iPhone case from Germany’s GnG, I start believing that the credit crunch is just a myth. It is worth a whopping $108,880 for its bling in the form of 140 grams of 18 carat gold filled with 200 diamonds along with a 400 diamond logo. This logo can be customized according to your needs. The shell is very slim at 1mm and it offers great stability and security with a special high-tech carbon fiber inlay. So to protect your $200 worth iPhone, you get a $108,880 case. Totally makes sense.

MSpa Is For Those Always On The Go

Enter MSpa. This beauty of a spa is 210-gallon in size. Its weight does not exceed 36 kgs making it rather easy to carry for you on your little trips so that you can relax you way, any time, and any where.

And it takes low maintenance too. For starters, it is self-inflating and reaches the ideal size in just a couple of minutes. It is spacious enough to accommodate up to 4 adults too. The interior is lined with a protective foil to increase it life. An insulator cover on the top lets the spa heat water up to 38 degrees. So, you can enjoy a splash of rejuvenation with a guilt-free eco-conscience.

The color is black and the relaxing quotient is to the optimum. So, go ahead and enjoy the pleasures of a wonderful spa that too when you are on the go. The price should not be too high.

Most Expensive Watch:Girard-Perregaux Opera Three

Desirability is understandably great for the Opera Three, and even at $630,000 we can envision hordes of the well-to-do camping out for the chance to buy one, iPhone-style. There’s just a small flaw in that scenario. Girard-Perregaux position themselves as crafting “watches for the few since 1791.” They’re not about to change. For the especially privileged few who acquire one, life could be worse. Owners can let the arrival of each hour pass in silence or they can embrace it by allowing the Opera Three to play one of two personalized tunes on its (very) miniature carillon, somewhat like a diminutive music box -- on your wrist -- that cost over half a million.
$630,000

Paper bag for women on the go

This is the latest in the category of environmental chic. Called Papier, this paper bag is smart as well as functional. The PE (polyethylene coated) paper bag is extremely tear proof, lightweight, waterproof and recyclable. A little wear and tear makes it look even better. With the label made out of sterling silver, the bag looks stylishly upscale. Expected to debut in April 2009 in selected stores and Germany based Saskia Diez’s online store shop.saskia-diez.de, the bag is very spacious and makes for a sexy shopping tote.

Continental Mobiles launches the world’s first Ruby encrusted Nokia 8800 Arte

If plain gold is too much of yellow and diamonds are just too shimmery for your taste then Continental Mobiles has an alternative for you. The UK based company has unveiled the world’s first Ruby encrusted Nokia 8800 Arte. This edition has been inspired by the Cosmopolitan cocktail. The cell phone is bejeweled with a silk finished 24k yellow gold and glamorous rubies. The product page describes it further – ‘Tap the phone to display its elegant clock or turn the phone face down to mute incoming calls. A sophisticated ambient light sensor adjusts the screen’s brightness according to the environment. Everything about the Cosmopolitan screams luxury and is truly a treat for the senses.’ For £6,000 ($9,000), this ornamented cell phone will suit every elegant lady’s hand for sure.

1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa fetches $12.2 million at RM Auction’s annual event

Ferrari is always in the news for breaking or making new records. The extremely rare 1957 Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa has now become the world’s most expensive car to be sold at an auction. The beautiful car was auctioned recently by RM Auctions' at their annual Leggenda e Passione event in Italy and fetched a whopping $12.2 million! This extremely rare car is one of only 22 made and hence instantly recognizable. A collector’s item, this Scaglietti-designed "pontoon-fender" 250 TR attracted bidders from all over the world who fought hard to take this beauty home.

The world's most expensive diamond dress worth $30 million!

The world's most expensive dress is being designed by Faisol Abdullah from Malaysia. This is going to be a very unique dress with 751 diamonds gracing it from Middle Eastern jeweler Mouawad. At $30 million, this is by far the most expensive piece of clothing. This silk and taffeta evening gown is called the "Nightingale of Kuala Lumpur," and is adorned with a beautiful central 70 carat pear-shaped diamond will debut in time for next month's STYLO

Samsonite Black Label by Viktor & Rolf collection for the stylish trotter.

Zagliani and Mauro Orietti-Carella's Botox Bags are hot stuff

I never knew bags needed botox, I thought that was mainly for old hags and celebrities. However, Mauro Orietti-Carella botoxes leather bags. This 44-year-old Milan-born designer started experimenting by injecting silicone (similar to the kind used for breast implants) and a plant resin into leathers like crocodile, python, ostrich and calf before they are crafted into bags. Apparently, the results are phenomenal with leathers that are as supple and soft as cashmere. This has also led to gorgeous glossy finishes that really brings out the colors. Besides this, to add some sparkle his also injected 18k gold dust and silvers, and oxidized the gold- and silver-infused leathers with acid.


This patented procedure of Carella gave Italian brand Zagliani a new life after it faced a serious threat of extinction eight years back. Celebrities like Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Cindy Crawford can't get enough of the Zagliani bags. You can get the brand's IT bag, The Puffy at the On Pedder boutique at the Takashimaya Shopping Centre in Singapore. It is absolutely stylish and stunning.

Diamond Earbuds for Apple prods

Everyone owns an iPod these days and you definitely won't stand out if you own one too. However, if you get these uber hot iPhone/iPod Touch earbuds, you are bound to make a statement. They are no ordinary earbuds, they are the world's most expensive ones for Apple products and with good reason too. They are beautifully decorated with round brilliant cut diamonds in micro-pave setting. They certainly look gorgeous without being too shiny. The white gold compliments the frosty diamonds nicely. You can buy them for $3,500 at eBay.

Cavallis 2009 Best Timepieces

Burberry Adventure

It certainly looks cool, with its rubber-coated steel case and choice of red, yellow or blue luminous markings. Absurdly good value, too.

£475.

Blancpain Speed Command

The new Speed Command chronograph makes up for such a travesty. Its 45mm case, with diamond-like coating (DLC), is water-resistant to 300 metres, while its 308-part automatic flyback movement is powered by a five-arm weight of rhodium-plated gold. The "Super-LumiNova" hand tips and carbon dial with yellow numerals based on a sports car dashboard show its appeal to driving-glove types.

£9,190.

Uomo by Ferrari

Now comes Uomo (Italian for "man"), the latest lifestyle product from the Prancing Horse stable. As befits the motoring thoroughbred, Ferrari's racy fragrance contains ingredients from its native Italy - Sicilian lemon and Calabrian bergamot, among others - with a suitably manly leather accord that is thankfully not too redolent of car interior. Sadly though, it doesn't come with a sticker that says: "My other fragrance is the Essence by Porsche Design".

Selfridges BlackBerry Bold, £1,000

To celebrate 100 years of superior retailing, Selfridges has commissioned this ultra-limited and aptly named BlackBerry Bold, only ten of which have been made, each individually numbered and boasting a leather back plate in the iconic Pantone 109 yellow. Best of all, the owners will enjoy exclusive access to a VIP hotline manned 24/7 by experts who can advise on all aspects of using their smart new smartphone, which, frankly, sounds worth the asking price by itself.

Tezon Tequila

OK, as a man, giving liquor as a gift if very inviting because a). There's no thinking involved, and b). You can wrap it in a gift bag, and c). if your receiver is kind enough, he might let you have some.

I am a big fan of high-end and designer tequila. This is one area where I think that the quality of the tequila can affect the flavor of your margaritas as well as the strength of you hangover the next morning. Enter Tezon Tequila.

Tezon Tequila
New York, NY- Spirits are a traditional part of the social celebrations of the holiday season. As a gift, a chosen spirit is an expression of warmth, generosity, and goodwill, whether given to family, friends or someone whose efforts you appreciate throughout the entire year. In a more specific way, a gifted spirit is the perfect way to articulate a relationship – an extraordinary spirit speaks volumes about your respect for the recipient.

Super-premium Tequila Tezon, crafted in Arandas, in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, is an outstanding gesture to someone who knows tequila. There is an assumption of connoisseurship, that this tequila from estate-grown, hand-harvested 100% blue agave will be savored and recognized for the painstaking care of its craft using the traditional Tahona process. This ancient method of making tequila refers to an ancient and highly revered volcanic millstone technique in which a colossal crushing wheel, fashioned from tezontle (volcanic stone found in Mexico), is employed to pulp the agave. The time-intensive Tahona method, the cornerstone of the process, was chosen in preference to the mechanical means favored by the industry.

As a result, Tequila Tezon is extraordinarily distinctive, perfect for someone who knows the field and can appreciate the difference in handcrafted tequila. Conversely, it is an excellent way to introduce the spirit’s heritage to a tequila neophyte. The many details of the Tezon bottle, such as the metalwork side panels and volcanic stopper, speak to its craft – it is perhaps not given so much as entrusted for safe keeping, a promise of warm weather and time together.

Heineken BeerTender

This is definitely a collaboration beer drinkers around the world have been waiting for (even though Europeans have had this for the past 4 years). Heineken has teamed up with Krups to form a machine that dispenses a Heineken mini keg perfectly on tap. Get cold beer on draught at a temperature that is suitable for you at an affordable cost (machine is only $299.00 usd). I know INQMND’s own Mikey and J Mac would love to recieve this so if you’re looking to get them a birthday gift you now know what to get them.

Grey Goose (vodka)

Grey Goose is a brand of French vodka. It is distilled in Cognac, France from French wheat, imported to the United States by the Sidney Frank Importing Company in New Rochelle, New York. In 2004, Sidney Frank sold the manufacturing rights to Bacardi for $2.2 billion. The first French vodka, Grey Goose has some competitors as the French vodkas Nuage, Idol, and Cîroc are all now on the market. These vodkas are sold mostly in North America, and are marketed as premium brands.

Louis Roederer Cristal Brut

Being a champagne lover, I'd have to say that I do get that sparkle in my eye when I enjoy an exceptionally nice bottle of French Champagne such as Krug, Dom Perignon, or Cristal. As for Louis Roederer's Cristal, it's birth was in 1876 while it became available for public purchase in 1945. Approximately 30 years later, the Rose' version of Cristal became available to the public. The Cristal Rose' has slightly more pinot noir than chardonnay and a dash of red wine for color. The average retail price for Cristal is around $250-$375 but can fetch in as much as $700 or more at higher end nightclubs and lounges. You can often find Cristal where the upper echelon of celebrities, athletes and socialites mingle.

Roberto Cavalli Vodka

For many years Roberto Cavalli only shared the pleasure of this delicious ultra-premium vodka with family and friends.

Famous for his busy nightlife and passion for having a good time, Roberto Cavalli has now decided to open this treasure to the rest of the world.

Produced in line with Italian tradition, Roberto Cavalli Vodka is sophisticated and elegant.

The vodka is made from the purest water of the Monta Rosa slopes, using the finest quality grains grown in the valleys where the South-Western Alps meet the river Po, and filtered through flakes of Italian Carrara marble.

Using this unique production technique gives the brand its most exclusive character.

Microsoft Surface Tabletop PC

Microsoft Surface (Codename: Milan), is a multi-touch product from Microsoft which is developed as a software and hardware combination technology that allows a user, or multiple users, to manipulate digital content by the use of natural motions, hand gestures, or physical objects.

Toywatch : My new accessory

The cool wrist watch, someone tells you. "It's my Toy Watch," you respond with confidence. On cool wrist watch, you tell them the story and they're all ears - and wrists. Their eyes light up, too, because this watch is so unusually great looking.
Toy Watch's cool wrist watch has the The big news, that is perhaps, the new fashionable timepiece of unisex bling that features clean luxury-style chronometers or mother of pearl faces or cases ringed by shiny faceted crystals. Or maybe the news is that the cool wrist watch is matched with jewel-colored acrylic links or classic nylon bands. Or possibly that it makes people think of a Rolex Swatch. Then again, it could be the price that boldly claims: I'm affordable! So which is it? All of them. That's what makes it Toy Watch. The irresistible fashion accessory of the year. You tell them more. About how Toy Watch makes fashion fun with its inventive fusion of hipness, quality and value. They can see how great it looks. They know how classy and sharp you look wearing Toy Watch. Still, how does Toy Watch do it?

A mother of pearl face on one, blingy beautiful crystals on another. A practical nylon strap here, a band of jazzy, light-catching links there. The result is hard to describe because it's just never been done, and done so well. No doubt that's why it's featured in a full-page display on the O-list in the June 2006 issue of Oprah Magazine. Making Oprah's O-List is one thing. When America's premier magazine chooses to display it so prominently, you know there's big news to shout about.

ToyWatch is there either way to make your ensemble exclusively YOUR ensemble. Toy Watch has its serious side. It goes with the ultra-accurate quartz movement. Just don't expect Toy Watch to take itself too seriously. They love to be noticed, but don't go to showy efforts to get attention. And they don't disappoint when an onlooker checks them out. That's already evident from the comments and questions you're getting from admiring onlookers. Toy Watch likes to travel, too. Parties, holiday events, work time, play time, fun time, any time. Even 100 feet below the surface of your favorite beach. But they're not diving for attention. They just have this way of capturing it.

Peacock feathers lend lingerie fashion with an exotic touch !

I’m sure you have come across a whole host of fashionable lingerie - from laced, satin, designer, vintage to contemporary. Although the list is endless, there is one variety that I’m sure will take you by complete surprise and I’m talking about the Peacock Feather Bra. And it is not without a reason that it carries a $124.95 price tag. This bra is stashed with 80 to 100 real peacock feathers and to complete the gorgeous look it has a 1.5-inch round rhinestone broach studded with crystals hooked at the center. Well, are you perplexed about the rationale of this lingerie fashion when all you’d be doing is concealing the colorful peacock feathers and the crystals beneath your dress? Well, my advice to you would be take up belly dancing. This is after all a part of a belly dancing costume!

FHK French knickers: A reason to flirt with the mirror

While some lingerie collections go traditional with lots of laces and netted fabric all around, some try to set a mark among the ultra-modern innerwear with their metallic look or minimalist design. But these FHK French panties are made with...

Louis Vuitton Tourist Guide 2009 Edition: A traveler's best friend

The true spirit of a traveler becomes more and more insatiable with each and every visit to a new place. When there is a restless desire to start the journey, you can hardly wait to gather all the required information. So what can be a better friend to a traveler than the tourist guide? Louis Vuitton presents the 2009 edition of tourist guide that encompasses the whole world within a single whole. If you remember the last 2008 edition of New York tourist guide published by Louis Vuitton, I must tell you that this latest one is much greater with compared to that. Yes, it covers all the destinations and hence, answers all your queries regarding where to stay, move or enjoy, be it Asia or Europe. And for each guide you will have Italian beauty Monica Belluci as your host. Isn’t that exciting?

Retro funk for your eye gear

If you are bored of the regular Ray Ban or Gucci, here is an interesting, colorful substitute. Art 4 the face is a line of hand painted eye gear that looks anything but blah. Available in a plethora of shapes and styles, these are a good alternate for people who have spent years behind their boring golden or silver frames.

The line also has distinctly interesting options for those who have had enough of the boring readers. Available in different magnification strengths, the bright readers are cool way to spice up your style quotient. All the eye gear comes protected in a stylish hand-sewn carrying case that you would love pulling out of your handbag. The unisex range includes wraps and leashes as well.

BeoVision 4 103-inch Plasma Display Unveiled

It’s being touted as the ultimate plasma television set. BeoVision 4, the 103-inch plasma television’s launch has been announced by Bang & Olufsen, which is one of the biggest among flat screen televisions in the world market. Bang & Olufsen is the Danish provider of high end audio and visual products.



Apparently it is also the only one of its kind that has a stand to lift the screen and tilt it to optimal viewing positions, at the touch of a button.

The television sent can be custom ordered from any of the company’s showrooms and is available in a range of colours such as black, silver, red, blue and dark grey. However, it will take about four months for each ordered piece to be custom-built. It also needs a special `white-glove’ delivery and installation process. The television does not come easy though. It will set you back by a whopping $ 93,050 on wall mount, and $ 111805 on a motorized floor stand.

Ducati Streetfighter

Ducati Streetfighter: Wait for Dream Superbike is Over, NearlyTouted the most powerful motorcycle that Italians have ever built, The Streetfighter, Ducati’s Superbike will blaze the roads in May 2009. The superbike’s making was first announced late last year in Milan. Want to race it already?

A dream bike many would love to own, it will have racing silencers, undertank side panels, a swing-arm guard, a passenger seat cover and a rear hugger made of carbon. The superbike is dubbed Ducati Streetfighter S. Other features of the superbike include Marchesini wheels and Ohlins suspension. It has a slipper clutch kit that will prevent the rear wheel lock up under aggressive downshifting. It also has an electronic shifter that helps shifting faster.

The design of the superbike is aggressive too. The bike’s innovative design with a unique profile exhaust
and caps help give it that look. Use of light allow in this hi-tech design make the billet clutch the best feature in its look.

There are two versions in the making – Ducati Streetfighter S and Ducati Streetfighter. The `S’ version will be available with US dealers by May for $ 19,000, while the `non-S’ version will be available in August for $15,000.

300SL Panamericana

Hot on the wheels of the new McLaren-Mercedes SLR Stirling Moss is another Mercedes-powered revamp. The 300SL Panamericana keeps the retro stylings of the original Mercedes 300SL Gullwing - widely regarded as one of the best-looking cars of all time - but incorporates aircraft composite technology into the bodywork and the same 5.5-litre, 370bhp engine as the SLR and AMG models under the bonnet. And it's meant to be driven as well as admired, with little comforts such as an iPod-friendly radio (otherwise, the instrumentation remains pleasingly old-fashioned) and fitted leather luggage. Expected in 2010, the concept is the work of Arturo Alonso's Gullwing-America. He himself used to race a Mercedes 300SE in the Carrera Panamericana, a famously lethal Mexican road race turned classic car rally.

Ferrari 599

Whats New: Motivated by an Enzo-derived V-12 that puts out an astounding 103 hp/L of displacement, the 599 is super fast and super luxurious, featuring dual-zone climate control, an electrically adjustable steering column, and even a radio/CD player. Most powerful series production Ferrari ever, its semi-active suspension ensures a comfortable ride, too.
Rest is obvious for FERRARI

Lexus LS 600h

For that money, buyers will have the distinction of owning the world's first vehicle with a full V8 hybrid powertrain.

Ironically, the 'green' version of the LS features a larger engine to power it, at 5.0 liters in displacement instead of the standard 4.6 liters. And the bigger V8 is combined with two electric drive motors, the combo good for 438 horsepower. The engine itself makes 389 horsepower, along with 385 lb-ft of torque, though at what rpm levels isn't disclosed. The transmission is a dual-stage electronically controlled CVT, sending power to all four wheels.

All this hardware makes the 600h about 500 lbs heavier than the LS 460L on which it's based, yet performance is better, and fuel economy is better in the city, at EPA estimates of 20 mpg, by 4 mpg, and 2 mpg worse on the highway, at 22 mpg.

Most of the optional equipment of the gasoline-only LS is standard on the LS 600, making the near $30,000 price difference between the two a little easier to swallow. There are all the latest safety features Lexus offers, including nearly countless airbags, as well as all the electronic traction and braking aids working through 19-inch wheels and tires.

That also includes the Mark Levinson sound system that is optional on the 'regular' LS, which sports a Reference badge and includes a Hard Disk Drive with the ability to store up to 2,000 songs, 7.1-channel surround sound support and an in-dash six-disc DVD / CD changer capable of DVD video playback. Total system power is 450 Watts split among 19 speakers.

Three option packages do exist, one of which only by special order. The Executive Class Seating Package II converts the LS 600 to a four-seater, with a center console splitting the two power reclining rear seats. The rear right passenger seat even massages its occupant and provides him with a leg rest. A DVD entertainment system with a 9-inch screen also finds its way back here.

Lincoln MKS

A recent resurgence in American luxury car production has seen some of the best cars ever to emerge from Detroit rolling off the assembly line in the past few years, and the MKS is one of them. High-quality materials, attractive design and attention to detail have put the Lincoln brand back on the luxury map. Confidence-inspiring handling and a comfortable, refined ride combine with the MKS's value proposition to make it a leader in the segment.

Chk this link for all the details:
http://www.lincoln.com/2009mks/?intcmp=B_MKSLaunchPhaseI_lincolnHomeBanner_LincolnMKSReachHigher_20080604

Maserati Quattroporte

Italian style and passion are famous ingredients of the Maserati line, but the Quattroporte combines that enthusiasm with equal parts fine workmanship and attention to detail, both inside and out. Powered by a sonorous V8 engine crafted by Ferrari with a new six-speed automatic gearbox, with quilted leather and exotic hardwoods, the in-cabin experience of the Quattroporte is unmatched.


Power comes from a 4.2-liter V8 delivering 394 horsepower at a screaming 7000 rpm. Maximum torque is 333 pound-feet at 4500 rpm.

When it was first launched, the Quattroporte was offered with a DuoSelect automated manual transmission only. Like Ferrari's F1 gearbox or BMW's SMG system, DuoSelect is essentially a manual transmission with a computer controlled clutch and paddle shifters instead of a shift lever.

Although the DuoSelect transmission offers extremely fast gear changes and quick acceleration, some customers found it too jerky at low speeds. As a result, Maserati began offering a regular automatic transmission in 2007. The "Automatica" model has optional paddle shifters, giving it much of the functionality of the DuoSelect version.

With the DuoSelect gearbox the sedan has a front-rear weight distribution of 47/53. In Automatica guise, that figure becomes a more balanced 49/51.

The Quattroporte is available in three trim levels: the basic configuration, Sport GT, and Executive GT. The Sport GT has an improved transmission, tuned exhaust, 20-inch wheels, sportier suspension, a mesh grille, and various "Sport GT" interior and exterior accents.

The Executive GT model has 19-inch wheels, an Alcantara suede interior headliner, a chrome grille, chrome side vents, a wood-trimmed steering wheel, ventilated heated and cooled seats, massaging rear seats, retractable wood tables in the rear, and curtain shades on the windows

THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES

BMW's flagship saloon since 1977, the 7-Series has traditionally been at the forefront of automotive technology but its polarizing styling has divided aficionados of late. A redesign for 2009 shows a return to the elegant lines of previous generations, backed by the latest in automotive technology. From infra-red night vision to automated self-parking and powerful turbocharged engines, the BMW 7-Series has it all.

PRESS RELEASE (UK VERSION):
THE NEW BMW 7 SERIES

* World's first Night Vision system with individual pedestrian recognition
* World's first production car with front side view camera
* First BMW Saloon with speed-related Integral Active Steering
* First BMW with Lane Change Warning
* BMW 7 Series to feature EfficientDynamics for class-leading CO2 emissions and fuel consumption
World firsts
The BMW 7 Series' drivetrain superiority is reinforced with a plethora of automotive firsts. All 7 Series can now be specified with the world's first car available with a Side View camera system. In addition to Park Distance Control that aids slow speed manoeuvring, the front side view camera system provides another tier of driver awareness. With the touch of a button two forward facing cameras mounted in the front bumper can show an overview of traffic conditions on the iDrive display. This allows the driver to negotiate a partially obscured junction, leave a car park or drive through a narrow gate with absolute confidence.

The new BMW 7 Series can be specified with the world's most advanced Night Vision system in a production car. BMW was the first manufacturer to fit Night Vision to a premium car and it has now upgraded this package to include a pedestrian recognition system in another world first. A control unit analyses video data of human behaviour as part of the Night Vision camera's reach and can subsequently alert the driver if it detects a human is moving into the path of the vehicle.

Building on the impressive list of innovations, the 7 Series is the first BMW to feature Lane Change Warning combined with Lane Departure Warning. The latter is a system that first appeared on BMW 5 and 6 Series models and uses a camera to monitor road markings. Should the driver start to stray out of lane, a gentle vibration of the steering wheel provides an alert. However, courtesy of two radars located at either side of the rear bumper, Lane Change Warning adds another level of driver safety. The sensors constantly scan the blind spot either side of the vehicle, up to a distance of 60 metres, and alert the driver to the presence of another vehicle with a triangular symbol in the door mirror housing.

Cars that are specified with Head-up Display and Lane Departure Warning have the added driver benefit of a speed limit warning system. The camera used as part of the Lane Departure Warning system can now also scan oncoming road signs to alert the driver of any impending speed restriction. The current speed limit is then displayed in the Head-up Display. This is the first time a production car has been offered with a speed warning system that can read road signs.

Completing the host of innovations is speed-related Integral Active Steering. A car specified with this optional equipment allows the rear wheels to turn by up to 3º. At slow speeds it is highly manoeuvrable, while at a faster pace it offers enhanced composure and driving dynamics.

2009 Volkswagen CC:

2009 Volkswagen CC: Meet the all-new CC
The all-new 2009 Volkswagen CC: A work of engineering that's also a work of art. A deluxe interior in tandem with a sleek, seamless exterior makes the all-new CC perhaps the most critically acclaimed Volkswagen ever. The elegantly appointed frameless four-door is receiving kudos from consumers and critics alike. Its dynamic curves, low profile, and high-performance come together to form an automobile that is both elegant and Autobahn-ready. Across the board, the newest member of the VW family has received high marks in major categories ranging across performance, comfort, quality, interior, exterior, and overall driving experience.

A variety of automobile-related publications and the media at large have raved about the CC. "Positively oozes class," says Car Magazine. Motor Trend claims it has "neck-straining acceleration" and "haute couture styling." Popular Mechanics describes it as "the most striking VW in recent memory." The CC is "slick and sensuous" and has a "classy-looking interior" according to the Washington Times.



With a 2.0L Turbo engine and a gas-sipping 31 mpg (highway) the CC combines high performance with high fuel-efficiency.* Both the Sport and Luxury models have a 4-cylinder 2.0L Turbo engine that serves up direct fuel injection and 200hp. In addition, the 6-speed manual or automatic is available with Tiptronic® and Sport mode. The 6-cylinder model (the VR6 Sport and the VR6 4Motion) are powered by 280hp and optional 4MOTION® all-wheel drive.

The CC's low roofline and seamless body not only enhance its form, they also make the CC an aerodynamic marvel with a drag coefficient lower than that of a bullet. And its standard safety features ensure that the CC is as safe as it is enjoyable (no easy task.)


Finally, the CC is loaded with standard luxury features such as 12-way power seats, three power outlets, exterior turn signals in the side mirrors, a chrome grille, and the integrated logo/trunk latch. Additional standard features include an 8-speaker in-dash entertainment console with a 6-CD changer and an MP3 jack, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, and a sport suspension. Add a Carefree Maintenance™ Program, ** and you may be shocked to learn the CC starts at just $27,100.†

The Volkswagen CC is the perfect four-door for anyone who wants an elegant, expertly designed luxury German sedan that's priced for the people. Form, function, and fast. It's what the people want.

Website: http://www.vw.com/cc/en/us





*21mpg city/31mpg highway (2.0L manual transmission). EPA estimates only. Your fuel consumption may vary. **The Volkswagen Carefree Maintenance Program covers the CC's 10K, 20K, and 30K scheduled maintenance intervals during the term of the new vehicle limited warranty, at no additional charge. See dealer or vehicle maintenance program booklet for details.† Base MSRP is for model equipped with manual transmission. MSRP for VR6 Sport Model shown is $38,700, includes 6-speed automatic Tiptronic® transmission and 18" Interlagos Wheels. MSRP for VR6 4MOTION® Model shown is $39,800, and includes 6-speed Tiptronic® transmission and 18" Daytona Wheels. Prices exclude taxes, title, transportation, other options and dealer charges. "Volkswagen", the Volkswagen logo, "4Motion" and all model names are registered trademarks of Volkswagen AG. "It's What the People Want", and "Carefree Maintenance" and the Carefree Maintenance logo are trademarks of Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. "Tiptronic" is a registered trademark of Dr. Ing h.c. F. Porsche Ag. ©2009 Volkswagen of America, Inc.