New models introduced in Middle East market

Dubai: The sporty off-road Mercedes Benz ML 63 AMG will arrive in the Middle East in the third quarter of 2006, said Johannes Fritz, director of sales and marketing for Mercedes Car Group.

Formula One star and current German Touring Car Championship driver Jean Alesi introduced the car at the Middle East International Motor Show in Dubai.

Mercedes-Benz R Class was also unveiled during the event. The Grand Sports Tourer made its Middle East debut with seating capabilities for six passengers each with a window seat in three rows.

The new Maybach 57 S was also uncovered, and was specifically made to meet the demands of customers searching for a luxury sedan with greater engine output and agility.

Mitsubishi: Mitsubishi Motors showcased the new Lancer Ralliart, Lancer World Rally Car and the new Eclipse GT for the first time in the UAE.

The Mistubishi Motors stand also had the latest models of Pajero, Grandis and Lancer.

Al Habtoor Motors, the official dealers for Mitsubishi Motors, has reported a tripling of sales in the UAE market for Mitsubishi, and intend to increase expansion with an aggressive marketing strategy in the coming year.

Peugeot: Sales for Peugeot increased by 250 per cent in the region during the last four years. The company aims to double that figure in the next two years.

Every year Peugeot releases two new models in order to keep up with the competition, and this year the 407 silhouette had its regional entry.

Audi: Audi used the Dubai motor show to reveal its new Audi Q7, an SUV with a coupe like state of the art design.

Audi has registered a 35 per cent sales increase from January to October 2005 in the Middle East, according to the company.

"The Q7 will be one of the most important models for Audi in the Middle east Market," Thierry Seys, managing director for Audi Middle East, told the Gulf News.

Audi also unveiled the Audi A4 Cabriolet and the Audi S8, a sporty version of the Audi A8.