NAIAS Global Stage Welcomes Two More Fine Performers
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AUTO CENTRAL – December 18, 2008: The North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) is pleased to add two international manufacturers to the growing list of show debuts.
Subaru of America continues the trend and tradition of auto makers taking full advantage of the NAIAS global media presence as more than 6,000 international outlets converge on Detroit in the next month. Also, BMW uses the NAIAS forum to have the Z4 Roadster make its North American debut in Detroit. Below is the official announcement from Subaru as well as some background information from BMW.
Subaru Confirms Participation in NAIAS - Automaker to Debut New
Concept Vehicle
Subaru of America, Inc. has confirmed that it will
participate in the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in
Detroit this January. The company looks to present both the Motor Trend
Sport/Utility of the Year, the 2009 Subaru Forester and a new concept
vehicle. Subaru is the only full-line brand to post an increase in sales
year-to-date. The company will showcase the following vehicles at
NAIAS:
BMW Z4 Roadster Makes its North American Debut in Detroit
A
breath of spring air will sweep through Cobo Center when BMW holds the
North American debut of its new 2009 Z4 Roadster models. In addition to its
classic roadster proportions, the Z4 features a fully retractable hardtop
that drops with a touch of a button within 20 seconds for open-air
motoring. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to
rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. An
optional trunk pass through-loading system with a transport bag allows the
user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring
up to 67 inches in length. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains
the proportions typical of a genuine roadster. The new Z4 takes on the
classic look of the roadster in its modern, flowing lines. The car's
proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid,
short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low
seating position near the rear axle.
On sale globally in the first half of 2009, the Z4 is offered with a choice of two inline-six-cylinder engines, both of which will be displayed at NAIAS 2009. The Z4 sDrive35i comes with a 3-liter six outfitted with twin turbochargers and rated at 300 horsepower; the Z4 sDrive30i is rated at 255 horsepower.
While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i also is available with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. Standard Dynamic Drive Control enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button.
The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4, the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.
NewsFlash and ShowTalk Go Digital
This year, the Auto Show's
key industry publications are being designed and delivered in a digital
format. This move reflects the Auto Show's commitment to deliver both event
and industry-related news in a more timely and productive way. The new
approach to NewsFlash and ShowTalk is part of a larger auto show
communications' initiative that will be implemented beginning in 2009.
Experience more at the new Auto Show web site, www.naias.com.