Kuala Lumpur, 8 October 2007 – Luxury automobile manufacturer Bufori is delighted to announce its participation in the 2007 Australian International Motor Show (AIMS), taking place at the Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour from 11 to 21 October 2007.
The exhibition will mark a significant homecoming for the independent luxury carmaker, which was founded in Sydney in 1986 by brothers Gerry, Anthony and George Khouri. Following the company’s relocation to Malaysia during the 1990s, Bufori has been largely absent from the Australian automotive scene for 14 years.
Now, more than two decades after its establishment, Bufori is returning to the city where its remarkable journey began, introducing Australian motoring enthusiasts to the latest evolution of its distinctive handcrafted luxury automobiles.
For the occasion, Bufori will showcase the MKIII La Joya, a contemporary-classic luxury coupé that represents a significant advancement from the company’s earlier handcrafted roadsters.
Inspired by the graceful proportions and timeless elegance of luxury automobiles from the 1930s, the La Joya combines traditional coachbuilding craftsmanship with modern automotive engineering, advanced technology and luxurious appointments.
The distinctive coupé features a lightweight composite body incorporating carbon fibre and Kevlar, a mid-mounted 2.7-litre V6 engine and a sophisticated chassis designed to deliver a refined and engaging driving experience.
Its luxurious interior is appointed with fine leather upholstery, French-polished walnut trim, elegant instrumentation and intricate handcrafted details, reflecting Bufori’s commitment to exceptional quality and individuality.
Unlike conventional mass-produced automobiles, every La Joya is individually handcrafted at Bufori’s manufacturing facility in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Customers are offered extensive opportunities for personalisation, with an almost limitless selection of exterior colours, premium leathers, interior finishes and bespoke appointments.
Gerry Khouri, Founder and Managing Director of Bufori, commented:
“Returning to Sydney is a particularly special occasion for us. This is where Bufori began in 1986, when my brothers and I set out to create automobiles that were different from anything else on the road.
Over the years, the company has grown and evolved considerably. Today, we have our own manufacturing facilities in Malaysia, where a dedicated team of skilled craftsmen and engineers produces exclusive luxury automobiles for customers around the world.
Although our cars have become far more sophisticated, our philosophy remains unchanged. We still believe in creating automobiles that combine timeless design, exceptional craftsmanship and individuality.
We are very excited to return to Australia and introduce the La Joya to the country where our journey started.”
Bufori’s return to the Australian market follows a series of successful international appearances at prestigious automotive exhibitions, including the New York International Auto Show, the Frankfurt International Motor Show, Top Marques Shanghai and the Dubai International Motor Show.
These appearances have helped establish the marque’s international reputation as an independent manufacturer of exclusive handcrafted luxury motor cars.
The Australian International Motor Show provides an opportunity for Bufori to reconnect with its heritage while introducing a new generation of Australian motoring enthusiasts to the brand.
For those familiar with Bufori’s original roadsters, the MKIII La Joya will demonstrate how far the company has progressed in engineering, technology, manufacturing quality and refinement, while preserving the distinctive styling and individuality that have defined the marque since its earliest days.
Australia remains a market of particular significance to Bufori, not only because of its historical connection with the company, but also because of the country’s established appreciation for specialist automobiles and automotive craftsmanship.
The company’s participation in AIMS 2007 marks an important step in re-establishing Bufori’s presence in Australia and strengthening its relationship with prospective customers, motoring enthusiasts and industry partners.
More than 20 years after the first Bufori was created in Sydney, the company’s return to the Australian International Motor Show represents both a celebration of its heritage and an exciting new chapter in its international journey.
Visitors to the 2007 Australian International Motor Show are invited to discover the exclusive world of Bufori and experience the distinctive craftsmanship of the MKIII La Joya firsthand.
