Michael Finnan replied to Ralph Paglia's discussion 'Professional Resume' Postings'

Michael Finnan replied to Ralph Paglia's discussion 'Professional Resume' Postings'

Bryan Armstrong and Rechelle joined Ralph Paglia's group

Bryan Armstrong and Rechelle joined Ralph Paglia's group

Bryan Armstrong joined John Cisar's group

Bryan Armstrong joined John Cisar's group

Bryan Armstrong replied to Ralph Paglia's discussion 'Professional Resume' Postings'

Bryan Armstrong replied to Ralph Paglia's discussion 'Professional Resume' Postings'

Steve Flanagan added a song

Steve Flanagan added a song

Myron Goldstein added a photo

Myron Goldstein added a photo

Ralph Paglia added a blog post

Ralph Paglia added a blog post

Larry Bruce is now friends with Rob Lange and Rechelle

Larry Bruce is now friends with Rob Lange and Rechelle

Myron Goldstein updated their profile

Myron Goldstein updated their profile

Ken Nix joined Christian V. Fackrell's group

Ken Nix joined Christian V. Fackrell's group

First Look: 2010 Jaguar XJ Finally Out of the Bag

Today, after extensive teasing, Jaguar finally unveiled the 2010 XJ, with a little help from funnyman and chin hero Jay Leno.

The automaker’s flagship will feature Jaguar’s three 5.0-liter V-8 engines, two supercharged, producing 385, 470, and 510 horsepower.  The 2010 XJ is also more efficient and less polluting than previous models. The big revamp, though, comes from the new styling of the XJ, which many consider long overdue.

The 2010 Jaguar XJ will go on sale in December, starting at $72,500 MSRP.

Click through the gallery above to see the new XJ, or scroll down for the press release from Jaguar, and make sure to let us know what you think.

9 July 2009
REVEALED TODAY - THE ALL NEW 2010 JAGUAR XJ

The All New XJ brings a bold and daring new spirit to automotive luxury

MAHWAH, N.J., JULY 9, 2009 – Jaguar proudly revealed the all new 2010 Jaguar XJ today in London. The iconic XJ offers a seductive mix of striking design and robust performance made possible by Jaguar's aerospace-inspired light weight aluminum body technology. The all new Jaguar XJ will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP. It is available to order today for delivery in early 2010.

Building on the success of the XK and XF, the new XJ is the third step in the revitalization of the Jaguar brand and redefines the world's perception of a large sports sedan. The new XJ will be available in both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).

The all new Jaguar XJ brings new standards of sustainability to the luxury vehicle segment. Its lightweight aluminum structure makes it at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction, and is made with 50 percent recycled material allowing the XJ to minimize its carbon footprint and create a potential savings of three tons of CO2 per vehicle, compared to a body shell made entirely of new aluminum. These aerospace-inspired aluminum body technologies also provide benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.

"The launch of the all new Jaguar XJ marks a major milestone for Jaguar in North America, which is expected to be the world's largest Jaguar XJ market," says Gary Temple, President of Jaguar Land Rover North America. "The debut of our ultimate four-door flagship follows recent recognition for exceptional dependability and clearly demonstrates our commitment to producing the finest cars in the world – fast, beautiful cars that offer luxury, performance and first-rate quality."

The first impression of the all new XJ is its visual assertiveness. The XJ’s sleek lines are complemented by a taut waistline, which further accentuates the impression of length and elegance, and creates a natural tension as it fades from the front arch into the middle section of the car before reappearing as a strong haunch towards the rear.

The New XJ offers a modern reinterpretation of a number of key XJ design cues while maintaining the highest standards of personal luxury. This is evident in how the strong, muscular lower half of the car contrasts with the slim and graceful quality of the roofline – a nod to the original 1968 XJ sedan.

A standard panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside. The LED light clusters wrap stylishly over the rear fenders, and feature three dramatic red vertical strips while the elongated teardrop shape of the side windows establishes the car’s silhouette. The rear of the all new XJ is notable for its pure, sculpted shape. With a conscious absence of ornamentation, the rear features only a single leaping Jaguar.

The face of the all new 2010 XJ is confident, with a wide front track and short overhang contributing to the finely judged proportions. The nose of the car follows Jaguar’s new design language with a bold and assertive treatment – the powerful mesh grille and slim xenon headlights create a strong road presence while the wrap-around rear screen reduces the visual weight of the pillars and gives the impression of an exotic "floating" roof.

“The new XJ is a thoroughly modern interpretation of the quintessential Jaguar," says Ian Callum, Design Director, Jaguar Cars. "Its visual impact stems from the elongated teardrop shape of the car’s side windows; that powerful stance and its wide track. It is the most emphatic statement yet of Jaguar’s new design direction."

The sleek design and refined luxury is continued inside the all new XJ by mixing newly advanced technologies and contemporary design to create an environment more akin to a state-of-the-art living space than a car cabin. The overriding impression from the interior is a sense of personal space that is enhanced by the clean, simple form of the leather-wrapped instrument panel sitting low across the vehicle. At the center of the instrument panel is an analog clock with individual chrome chaplets, a spun metal face and iridescent blue background; a look inspired by luxury watches.

The all new XJ's cabin is a marvel in its own right, blending elegant, contemporary design with the comfort, luxury and unmistakable sporting style of a Jaguar. Chrome and piano black detailing provide an eye-catching contrast to the beautifully crafted leather and veneer surfaces. To further complement the cabin design is a level of choice in colors, veneers and leathers not seen before in a Jaguar. Four specification levels – XJ, XJL, Supercharged and Supersport – allow the customer to tailor the car to suit their tastes. The top-of-the-range Supersport provides the ultimate expression of performance and luxury, with a specification that includes a leather headlining, semi-aniline leather seats and veneers with laser inlays.

Stunning, 12.3-inch high-definition Virtual InstrumentsTM complement an innovative 8-inch Touch-screen that displays vehicle functions ranging from audio and video to navigation and climate control. Premium surround sound options include the top-of-the-range 1200W Bowers & Wilkins system, which is standard on the Supercharged and Supersport models. Advanced infotainment features also include hard drive-based audio and navigation systems, and comprehensive connectivity for portable audio and video devices via the powerful Media Hub.

The all new XJ’s beauty is much more than skin-deep. All engines transmit power through an enhanced version of Jaguar’s acclaimed electronically controlled, six-speed automatic transmission which has a fully-adaptive shift system that delivers extremely smooth gear changes and works to balance performance and economy.

With the XJ, Jaguar has built upon its leading quality performance using the latest virtual product technologies. These proven Jaguar dynamic technologies are taken to new levels in the all new XJ. Features such as air suspension, Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (on Supercharged and Supersport) and quick-ratio power steering deliver the blend of responsive, dynamic handling and a refined, supple ride expected from a Jaguar.

The new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb.-ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb.-ft. and 461 lb.-ft. of torque, respectively. All three engines combine deft performance, unparalleled character, peerless pedigree, and have a classic Jaguar blend of strength and precision.

The all new 2010 Jaguar XJ delivers a driving experience that is just as memorable as the car’s sleek and alluring appearance, combining responsive, sporting dynamics with the luxurious drive expected from a Jaguar.

All New Jaguar XJ At-A-Glance
• As the company’s ultimate four-door flagship, the all new XJ extends the appeal of the legendary XJ line to a new generation of customers.
• The all new XJ will be available in the US with a choice of three engines – a 5.0 liter 385hp naturally aspirated V8, 5.0 liter 470hp supercharged V8 and a 5.0 liter 510hp supercharged V8. In naturally-aspirated form, the XJ develops 380 lb. ft. of torque. The supercharged versions develop 424 lb. ft. and 461 lb. ft. of torque, respectively.
• The new XJ features both standard and long wheelbase models. The long wheelbase offers an even more sumptuous and refined environment for rear-seat passengers with an additional five inches of legroom while the XJ’s trunk features power opening and closing for convenient access to the 15.2 cu. ft. storage space (with standard alloy space saver spare wheel).
• The new Jaguar XJ is constructed using Jaguar’s aerospace-inspired aluminum body technology, which makes the XJ at least 300 lbs. lighter over steel body construction; providing benefits to performance, handling and fuel economy, while delivering increased strength, refinement and safety.
• Key driver aids on the new XJ include Adaptive Dynamics (continuously variable damping), Active Differential Control (available only on Supercharged and Supersport), and Sequential Shift System for manual gear selection, with shift paddles mounted behind the steering wheel and quick-ratio power steering.
• The new XJ comes standard with a CD/DVD player, HD radio, and a SIRIUS™ satellite radio receiver. In addition, the Media Hub provides flexible connectivity through two USB ports, Bluetooth® audio streaming and an auxiliary input, which allow the user to connect with iPods®, iPhones™, laptops and Blackberrys®.
• A 12.3-inch high-definition screen, which uses sophisticated – and beautifully detailed – Virtual InstrumentsTM, provides all of the functions performed by traditional dials.
• A panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all new XJ’s design, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.
• The all new Jaguar XJ can be ordered today for delivery in early 2010 and will go on sale in December 2009, with a starting price of $72,500 MSRP.

The All New XJ Model Line Will Include:

• 5.0-liter naturally aspirated XJ and XJL (385hp) with a $72,500 and 79,500 MSRP, respectively
• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supercharged (470hp) with a $87,500 and $90,500 MSRP, respectively
• 5.0-liter XJ and XJL Supersport (510hp) with a $112,000 and $115,000 MSRP, respectively

Editor's note: All prices include an $850 destination and delivery charge. Tax, title, and registration fees not included.

Indian Motorcycles Unveils The Dark Horse and The Bomber

Indian Motorcycle Company has announced two new models, the Dark Horse and the Bomber, for its 2010 line-up, at its first official dealership meeting, held this week.
 
The Bomber, so named after WWII aircraft, is a limited edition of the Chief model, and comes with leather seats and saddlebags that have a similar feel and color to the old bomber jacket. The tank has painted on the same style of pin-up girl that could be found on the aircraft’s nose. The Bomber has been priced at $30,999.

The Chief Dark Horse, priced at $27,999, comes with darkened tappet blocks, suspensions, engine components, exhaust systems, hand controls, and blacked-out headlights.

All Chief Motorcycles come with a six-speed Baker transmission, a 105 cubic inch PowerPlus V-Twin powertrain with electronic closed loop sequential port fuel injection and the exhaust system is an integrated 3-way catalystic converter with heated oxygen sensors.
 
For more information about Indian’s new models click on the link below.
 
+ Motorcycle USA: Indian Motorcycles New Bomber and Dark Horse

First Ride: 2010 BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

—Spartanburg, South Carolina

We had the opportunity today to ride in the upcoming 5-Series Gran Turismo on BMW’s test track in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The experience was rather revealing.

First, the car looks better in the metal than it does in pictures (still, it was unfortunate that BMW wouldn’t allow us to photograph these pre-production models). That is a somewhat common occurrence with modern cars because photos tend to flatten out some of the surface work that sophisticated designers use. The other issue in the case of the 5-Series GT is that many of the original pictures were in an unflattering beige tone. One BMW employee volunteered, “They shouldn’t offer this car in that color.” Seeing darker and richer colors on this car, helps a lot with our sense of the design. Even so, you probably need to be in the target market (desirous of luxury and some level of functionality in a non-SUV) to see the car as attractive.

CLICK HERE to continue reading about the BMW 5-Series Gran Turismo

The interior is also very well done. The styling is pure 7-Series, but the interior seems more airy on the GT. The rear seats have legroom in between the 750i and the (limousine-like) long-wheelbase 750Li, but the extra headroom and panoramic roof help the GT. We also thought that the seat cushions in the GT were just enough softer to be noticeably better.

The GT rear seats move fore and aft, and backrest angle is adjustable. The rear seats can be heated and ventilated, and the backs can be folded at the press of a button. The trunk is roomy with the seats up, and there is a lot of room with them folded down. The dual mode trunk lid—door or hatch depending on which button you press—makes loading large objects easier than on a sedan. But like a sedan, the interior is separated completely (there is a wall and a lid) from the trunk when the rear seats are up. It sounds minor, but acoustically this makes the rear seats seem more luxurious than they would in a typical wagon or crossover. All-in-all this could be one of the top rear passenger compartments on offer today.

Riding in a car is a tough way to estimate driving dynamics, but we would say that the 5-Series GT has real potential. First, the cars that we were in had active damping and active anti-roll systems. This makes body roll very well controlled (particularly in a car with slightly more ground clearance than a standard sedan). The BMW test drivers also pushed it fairly hard on the track and our sense was that the car is well balanced (helped along by having a 50.2/49.8 percent weight distribution, which is very good even for a BMW).

The twin-turbo V-8 is a strong motor. Its’ 450 pound-feet of torque along with an new eight-speed automatic transmission gets the GT to 60 miles per hour in a quoted 5.4 seconds. The car moves along when the driver floors it, and the gearbox is extremely smooth. The automatic, plus a special electrical system that doesn’t use the alternator all the time, help to achieve a five-percent efficiency gain (probably good for a 1-2 miles per gallon improvement).

The track surface we were on was glass smooth, so we can’t say much about ride except that the pre-production cars seemed very stable. Wind noise was noticeable, but partly because all other sounds were minimal.

There are a lot of manufacturers making a lot of cars today; many are variants on a common theme. The leaders today are targeting new segments with vehicles that are slightly unusual, and the 5-Series Gran Turismo is certainly one of those vehicles. It makes sense to us, but we talked to a lot of journalists who didn’t get it. That’s market segmentation for you.

Interestingly, the U.S. is the largest market for most BMW models, but Germany will be the largest market, they believe, for this car. It is odd to think of the Germans as more receptive to innovation than the Americans, but perhaps the wagon and hatch tradition of Europe is easier to translate.

Despite targeting a niche, we will get several variants of the 5 Series Gran Turismo. The launch car will have rear wheel drive and the turbo V-8. Soon after, we’ll get six-cylinder and AWD options. An M car is also likely, though not so soon after launch. BMW says they want to bring in diesels, but also says Americans are biased against them. So, we doubt the GT will get a diesel in this generation. Too bad, because, given the long distance driving this car is built for, a diesel would suit it very well.

Diesel or no diesel, this is one of BMW’s well-conceived cars and seems to be well executed as well. We’ll put the latter thought to the test around the time the launch happens at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Spy Shots: Ford S-Max Gets a Facelift

The Ford S-Max, which, of course, we don’t get in the U.S., is getting a few styling changes. New bumpers are in order, as well as air intakes, hood, grille, fog lights, and taillights with LEDs. It looks a bit like Darth Vader's helmet, doesn't it?

Check out the new look in the gallery above, or scroll down for the photographer’s comments.

With the Ford S-Max out on the market since 2006, it’s getting time for a mid-life facelift. And now it’s time as we can see on these photos from the Alps. Changes will not be so spectacular, but there will be some new bumpers with new designed air intakes and fog lights. A new engine hood and a new grille are also on the list of news as well as new rear lights with LEDs. And if we look closely we also notice some smaller changes to the hatch.

The face lifted Ford S-Max will be official at the Frankfurt Car Show in September.

Hertz Italy Offers Lotus Cars for Rent

When we opened our inbox and saw “Hire your dream – Lotus cars now available for rental with Hertz,” we were already getting up out of our chairs to retrieve the vintage bubbly from the secret wine cooler we have hidden behind our photo of Winston Churchill. Then we continued reading, “Italy.”

That’s right, Hertz Italy. No Elise SC for U.S. rental. Sometimes life isn’t fair.

Disappointing (unless you live in Italy) press release follows.

Hire your dream – Lotus cars now available for rental with Hertz Italy

Lotus Cars Limited, the sportscar subsidiary of Group Lotus plc is delighted to announce a marketing co-operation agreement with the car hire company Hertz Italiana and to supply Lotus cars for its rental business in Italy.

Now driving enthusiasts, fans of the Lotus brand and those who want to drive cars from one of the finest sportscar marques in the world will be able to hire a Lotus Elise directly from Hertz Italiana S.p.A.

Lotus Elise SC sportscars will be available to hire from key Hertz centres throughout Italy from middle of July.

Mr. Michael J. Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc, commented, “I am delighted that Lotus Cars has entered into this agreement with Hertz, giving us the opportunity to make our stunning world class sportscars available to the rental market. The iconic and multi award winning Lotus Elise and the stunning Lotus Exige are the perfect fun rental cars for those who desire exclusive and high performance motoring.“

Mr. Andrea Manni, director of the official Lotus dealer, ‘Lotus Rome’ said, "For many, to drive a Lotus is to fulfill a lifelong dream and now, thanks to Lotus and Hertz Italiana S.p.A. this dream can be realised for a longer period than just a quick test drive at a Lotus dealer. We expect some drivers who hire an Elise or Exige from Hertz Italiana S.p.A to visit a Lotus dealership afterwards, as once you have experienced the exciting and adrenaline fueled capabilities of a Lotus, there is no turning back!”

Ing. Giuseppe Caminiti, Fleet Director for Hertz Italiana  said: “We launched the Hertz Fun Collection last year to give our customers the possibility to drive the cars they have always dreamt of driving. The Lotus Elise SC is one of these dream cars and by including it in the Hertz’s Fun Collection our customers have an opportunity to drive a real sportscar. We are honoured to be able to work with Lotus and are delighted that Lotus has created personalised versions of the Elise SC especially for Hertz.“

To book a Lotus Elise car hire from Hertz, drivers are invited to contact Hertz on www.hertz.it or by calling the Hertz call center on +39-199-11-22-11.

ENDS

Nomad Concept Vehicle: A Four-Legged Motorcycle

Jason Battersby’s project, christened Nomad, is a futuristic concept where the rider sits atop an animal-like vehicle, which moves on four legs. The theory goes that this makes it ideal for off-road travel and adventurous terrain.

The rider is said to use hand and foot controls, similar to operating a motorcycle, to control Nomad. This beast shaped vehicle comes with a helmet and a survival pack for the rider. The on-board GPS helps the rider chose the best routes to take and helps find food sources.  The nomad feeds of vegetation and uses it as biofuel, making it even more animal-like. Unsurprisingly, there are no plans as yet to translate this concept into a working vehicle.

Spy Shots: Ferrari F450 Sheds Its F430 Guise

Last time we saw the Ferrari F450, it was still wearing the F430 garb. Just now, our spy photographer sent us these shots of the F450 in its own skin.

With its 4.5-liter V-8, and a dual-clutch gearbox (borrowed from the California), the F450 should hopefully show up at the Frankfurt show in September, or the L.A. show in early December, although likely only as a concept.

Click through the gallery above to see the Ferrari F450 cruising by in Italy, then scroll down for the shooter’s comments.

Today we spotted the Ferrari F450 in its real shape, until now we have only seen the F450 as a mule in a F430 dress. It was testing around a very hot Maranello/Italy. Too bad the Fiorano track was occupied all day with some customers been driving around in a 599 FXX, or else we could have given you some photos while testing on the track as well.

The F450 will be shown as a concept in either Frankfurt, or LA. But we are still hoping they will change their mind and show us the real car instead.

Engine will be a new 4.5 liter version of the V8, but according to some rumors the power output on the F450 will be higher than on the F430 Scuderia. We will also see the double-clutch gearbox known from the California in the F450.

Bentley Teases Us Again, Announces Grand Bentley Debut Date

Bentley announced today that it will debut, and name, its all-new grand Bentley at the 2009 Pebble Beach Concours D’Elegance in Monterey, California on August 16.

Thanks, Bentley, for reminding us to mark our calendars. Oh, and happy 90th birthday.

The official press release follows.

08-07-2009
Bentley to celebrate 90th anniversary with debut of all-new model at Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance

"Cars undoubtedly have a personality to the real enthusiast, to whom they are not mere collections of steel and aluminium, but animal-like, show their spirit just so soon as the clutch bites home and feeling comes through to the driver..."

(Sammy Davis, first Bentley road test report, January 1920)

Crewe: Wednesday 8 July. Bentley Motors today celebrates its 90th anniversary and confirms that its all-new Bentley will be revealed - and named - in August at the Pebble Beach Concours D'Elegance in Monterey, California where the company is a featured marque.

Founded by W.O. Bentley in 1919, the company's first production car, the 3-litre was delivered in September 1921. Over the next ten years, Bentley went on to produce an array of iconic motor cars. At the same time, the exploits of the immortal Bentley Boys - a select group of businessmen, sportsmen and bons vivants - forged the company's proud sporting pedigree both on and off the racetracks of Europe. The Bentley Boys made the legendary Le Mans endurance race their own, winning five times between 1924 and 1930.

The all-new grand Bentley captures the 1920s 'grand touring' spirit of the Bentley Boys, delivering the effortless driving, exclusivity and adventure desired by the real motoring enthusiast. A unique fusion of elegant design, hand craftsmanship and technological innovation, the new model embodies the potent yet luxuriously refined driving experience that is 'pure Bentley'. These have been the hallmarks of a Bentley since that first test drive in 1920.

It is fitting that the 90th anniversary of the Company will be marked by an all-new car. Such events are rare milestones in the Company's history. Designed, engineered and built in Crewe, which has been home to Bentley Motors for over 60 years, it has been a 'once in a career experience' for many involved. The car and its name, which will be revealed at Pebble Beach on 16 August, signal a new era in British luxury motoring.

Driven: 2010 BMW X6M

—Atlanta, Georgia

What Was the Question, Again?

Let’s face it, the BMW X6 is an unusual car. We simply aren’t yet accustomed to a large, tall, fastback SUVs (or SAVs as BMW would have it). Making such a car in an M version makes it even more unusual, and challenges the cerebral cortex even more.

Separating idea from execution for a moment, we’ve argued in favor of a car that combines AWD, better than average ground clearance, luxury appointments, attractive design and good performance. If you like, we’re talking about an Evo for grownups, or a less utilitarian Audi AllRoad S. Such a car could be desirable in urban environments and for road trips that aren’t confined completely to perfect blacktop.

CLICK HERE to continue reading about the BMW X6M

We think that’s something of what BMW had in mind for the X6 (you also have to remember that BMW is a niche company, so the X6 targets a niche within a niche). Making it an M car, except for brand purists, certainly doesn’t make it worse (for those who still don’t get it, there is also an X5M). And, of course, BMW didn’t just crank up the boost on the existing X6 and slap on some M badges. Real engineering was involved, some of which will see the light of day on future BMWs targeted at mainstream buyers.

The X6M engine is special. The twin-turbo V-8 delivers 555 horsepower. Even more essential for a car of this weight (just over 5100 pounds), the M motor offers 501 pound-feet of torque from 1500 to 5650 rpm. BMW has added something they call “cylinder block compressive exhaust manifold.” Besides the innovative routing of the exhaust to the top of the engine (which was done for the standard version that we get in the 750i, and the X5, and X6), BMW now spins each turbo with exhaust from both banks of the V-8. Because of timing differences in cylinder firing, this speeds up turbo response. I can verify after driving the 750Li last week and now this, that the X6M is noticeably more linear in power delivery.

The other big engineering project for a heavy AWD car is dealing with understeer. BMW addressed this with the X6 by adding Dynamic Performance Control to the xDrive system. DPC (love those acronyms, don’t you?) is an active differential that allows the outside rear wheel to get more torque and the inside wheel to get less or negative torque. All this is done via gearing and is controlled by computers. The system in the X6M simply allows more aggressive and balanced handling options through the all-important M button on the steering wheel.

We were at Road Atlanta to try all this stuff out. As with the Porsche Cayenne Turbo, the car works amazingly well, though it leaves you with the question “is it actually good, or just ‘good for an SUV’?” First, the good part. On a track, at least, the X6M has a nice balance of roll stiffness and compliance. The stiffness is good because the car doesn’t feel sloppy. The compliance is important because you can sense quite well what the car is doing, which builds confidence (and is fun).

The fancy diff and M mode also mean that the X6M rotates pretty well, with the tail feeling rather willing to come around. Steering (which is not active) is very usable, and the revised automatic gearbox shifts very quickly. Paddles are on offer, though we preferred the excellent console mounted lever.

All of the above is true up to about nine-tenths of the limit. When you really get going, the X6M retains its balance but only by asking quite a lot from the tires. Scrubbing and juddering are par for the course, which is okay as far as speed goes, but there’s no question that at-the-limit performance is a rather rough and tumble experience.

Another aspect of the X6 at speed is its power delivery. BMW quotes 4.6 seconds for the 0-60 sprint. That’s probably right, given AWD, but the X6M feels more like a low five-second car on the road. That’s very good, and power is strong—you simply can’t hide all that weight completely. The engine also makes very nice noises, with an especially well-judged exhaust note.

We’ll have more later, but at $89,875 plus options this is a very unusual, very niche, though very good car (for what it is). Still, we couldn't help but notice that the X6 M gives off the feeling that it was conceived before October, 2008 (which of course it was).

Buyer's Guide: 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350

PROS
- C-Class chassis provides agile sporting feel, despite the vehicle's tall-ish stature
- As comfortable as any Mercedes, yet functional both off-road and as a hauler (relatively speaking)
- Bluetec diesel version coming soon

CONS
- G-Wagen inspired, angular exterior takes some getting used to
- Starts to get a bit pricy when the options are tacked on
- Rear cargo area isn't as usable as we would like

SUMMARY
Initially, the GLK's exterior design seemed curious. It's a definite departure from its larger brethren, representing sort of a shrunken hybrid of an ML and a G-Wagen. The sharp, angular lines are unique, though an acquired taste of sorts -- but we applaud Mercedes-Benz for taking chances. They've got to do something to draw attention to their new compact SUV -- since they've all but stood on the sidelines while BMW moved half a million of its X3s into the luxury compact SUV market.

Those who venture a closer look at the GLK wouldn't be disappointed, though. Inside is as comfortable, accommodating and elegant as you'd expect from anything Mercedes -- something that stands in sharp but welcome contrast to the vehicle's performance and capabilities. By the numbers, the GLK has 8 more horsepower, 23 more pound-feet of torque and is 0.7 seconds faster to 62 mph than the X3. With a towing capacity of 4400 pounds, the ability to safely navigate through a foot of water, and fourthcoming "off-road" option packages, the GLK is just about as functional as it is comfortable. Numbers and features can only say so much, though. The GLK is, plain and simple, an enjoyable drive and an excellent option as year-round, multi-function luxury SUV.

Click here to continue reading this review of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK350. You can also search through our other Buyer's Guide reviews in the NextAutos vehicle database.

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