car insights

2012 Ford Evos Concept

2011-10-20T07:57:00.000-07:00

The cars of the Cologne sold better and better, Because customers "felt more premium," as Ford's European design director Martin Smith puts it. Ford at the IAA is now with the Evo's still a concept car That Will go into this shape and design but never mass-produced, but is intended to show the direction in the which We think at Ford. "The Evo is the evolutionary development of the Kinetic design," says Smith.Most striking meters high at just 1:36 and 4:50 meters long, the new Ford Evos trademark face. Ford placed the large trapezoidal radiator above the bottom, he wandered up now. Smith: "The car is expected to make-a visual leap forward."The loadable at the outlet of lithium-ion cells allow an electric range of about 60 kilometers. Overall, the Evos make-800 kilometers.
Making its global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Ford Evos Concept represents the ultimate expression of Ford's new global design language, and explores key future powertrain and vehicle technologies.Created as a bespoke concept vehicle, the fastback introduces Ford's first truly global design language as the momentum of the company's One Ford product plan Continues to build.
"The Ford Concept Evos the which unites three key elements are at the core of our One Ford global product strategy: outstanding design, smart technologies and fuel economy leadership," said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development.s compelling design experience and innovative technology, this is a clear demonstration of the exciting vision We have for the Ford brand. Technology vision for enriched customer experience Ford Evos Concept is not just a design-led exercise. Ford's Global Research and Innovation team, led by Paul Mascarenas, was tasked with building the Concept Evos around experience as a technology visionary as the design. "At Ford, the future of technology in the car Will be defined by the experience That it delivers to the driver and passengers," said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president of Ford Research and Innovation. The concept's technology experience Embraces a new generation of driver interaction and awareness is currently under development in the Ford Research and Innovation Laboratories. Seamless connectivity the between the vehicle and the driver's 'personal cloud' of information is at the heart of the vision for its capabilities.With information from the cloud, the vehicle can Provide the same lifestyle connected the driver experiences at home or office. The car knows the driver, and automatically adapts handling, steering and engine controls to deliver an Exceptionally dynamic driving experience.The Personalised, cloud-connected lifestyleWhile today's Ford products Personalisation Provide drivers with many options, cloud connectivity Will enable future Ford vehicles to take the experience to the next level.Drawing from a detailed understanding of the driver's preferences and driving habits, the Ford Evos Concept combines this personal information with additional data from the cloud, Such as the driver's work schedule and local traffic or weather conditions. Enhanced driving experience Ford Evos Concept Vehicle explores adaptive technologies to redefine the driving experience.Driver wellnessFord Researchers have already developed technologies focused on driver wellness, Such as the heart-rate monitoring seat and certified allergy-free interiors. With a seamless connection to the cloud, the Evos Concept Ford monitors the physical state and workload of the driver and adjusts accordingly the driving experience.

The Ford Edsel Review

2011-10-20T07:36:00.000-07:00

The Ford Edsel was an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company During the 1958, 1959, and 1960 model years. The Edsel never gained popularity with contemporary American car buyers and sold poorly. Consequently, the Ford Motor Company lost Millions of dollars on the Edsel's development, manufacture, and marketing.Edsel Ranger interior, showing the Rolling Dome Teletouch system and speedometer.
Ford Motor Company eventually decided on the name Ford Edsel, in honor of Edsel B. Ford, son of the company's founder, Henry Ford (though Henry Ford II did not like the idea [2]). The Edsel was to be sold through a newly formed division of the Ford Motor Company, as a companion to the Ford Division, Mercury Division, Lincoln Division and (newly formed but also short-lived) Continental Division. The free-standing Edsel division existed from November 1956 until January 1958, after the which Edsel sales and marketing operations were the resource persons integrated into the Mercury-Edsel-Lincoln division (Referred to as MEL). Initially Edsel was sold through a network of approximately 1.187 new dealers. For
the Ford Edsel 1958 model year, Edsel produced four models [3]: The larger Mercury-based Citation and Corsair, and the Smaller-based PACER and Ford Ranger. The Citation was Offered in two-door and four-door two-door hardtop and convertible versions. The PACER was available as a two-door or four-door hardtop, four-door sedan, or a two-door convertible. The Ranger was sold in two-door and four-door hardtop or sedan versions. Unlike Ford and Mercury, the Edsel Division Had never any dedicated manufacturing plants. All Edsels were the resource persons or Mercury built in Ford plants on a contract basis.
For the Ford Edsel 1959 model year, Edsel fielded only two series, the Ford-based Ranger and Corsair. Replacing the PACER as the top-line-based Edsel Ford, the new Corsair was Offered as a two-door and four-door hardtop, four-door sedan, and two-door convertible. The Ranger was sold as a two-door and four-door hardtop, two-door and four-door sedan, and the Villager station wagon. The Edsel's front and rear bumpers were the resource persons also unique. The 1960 Edsel Ranger four-door hardtop models used the thin-pillar four-door Ford Fairlane sedan roofline, as opposed to the "square" roofline used on the corresponding Ford four-door hardtop, the which was exclusive to the Galaxie line. This gave the Edsel was a four-door hardtop, a unique body style Offered That was never on any 1960 Ford.

Among many U.S. marketing professors, the story of the Edsel car is Considered the classic brand failure of all time. Dubbed 'the Titanic of automobiles', the Edsel is Certainly one of the Biggest branding disasters to afflict the Ford Motor Company.Although the car did not Appear in showrooms until September 1957, ads promoting it Had Begun to Appear months Previously teaser bearing the slogan: 'The Edsel is Coming'.Ford decided though, to fuel public interest, the car Itself Should not be seen in the ads, and even Pls Ford dealers started stocking the car in showrooms Their, They were the resource persons of toll They Had to keep the vehicles undercover. As Ford hoped, interest was fuelled. For instance, part of the market research process Had been to find a Suitable name for the new car. Henry Ford II, the grandson of Henry Ford, Agreed. Edsel was the name of his father, and the Ford founder's only son. The PR director, C GayleWarnock, Edsel Knew That was not the right name. According to Robert Lacey in his book Ford: The Men and the Machine, Warnock responded to the new Edsel name by declaring: 'We have just lost 200,000 sales.' As it turned out, the name was the least of the Edsel's problems. The first blueprint for the Edsel looked truly impressive, as Robert Lacey writes in his book on Ford. Edsel's chief designer, Roy Brown Jr. Had always set out to design a car That would be instantly recognizable, from any direction. In particular, the car's front-end bonnet and grille commanded the most attention. 'The front end design was the most prominent feature, "confirms Phil Skinner, a respected Edsel Historian,' If you Consider other cars from the mid-1950s, They all looked somewhat alike. The promotional brochure to mark the September launch of the Edsel also promised a great deal. 'There has never been a car like the Edsel, "it promised.
This was a big claim, but Ford Had equally big ambitions. The company expected to Produce 200,000 units in the car's first year. Became Car showrooms packed with curious visitors, Desperately Seeking Their first glance of the car. In the first week of its launch, almost three million members of the U.S. public visited Edsel showrooms. In the Minds of the public, the car simply did not live up to the hype. And unfortunately for Ford, Neither did the sales. Ford launched in 1959 and 1960 Edsel models but sales Fell Further events (to 44.891 and 2.846 respectively).
In November 1959 the last ever Ford's printed ad for the car and Halted production. In simple terms, Ford Had overstated its case. On 13 October 1957 the marketing campaign for Edsel took product promotion to new heights Pls Ford joined forces with the CBS television network, to run a one-hour special Called The Edsel Show. Furthermore, in an age Pls all the cars Had Successful tailfins, the Edsel was finless. As Sheila Mello explains in her informative book, Customer Centric Product Definition, the launch of the Edsel coincided with a move Towards cheaper models: Ford's decision to highlight the Edsel's powerful engine During a period Pls the buying public was gravitating toward Smaller, more fuelefficient cars Alienated potential customers. Unfortunately, too, while some Edsel models were the resource persons more expensive than comparable cars, They had an equivalent or Greater number of quality problems.

2012 Opel Corsa Hatchback Review

2011-10-19T08:14:00.000-07:00

Opel - Vauxhall or, if you live in the UK - has just Revealed the facelifted version of the new Opel Corsa hatchback. If you're Hoping for something completely revolutionary with the new Corsa, you'll be disappointed to know that the car did not get treated to a complete overhaul. The new Corsa also comes with five new exterior colors, including Lime Green pearlescent, Chilli Orange metallic, Guacamole, Sunny Lemon, and Pepperdust. Seat trims Such as Steel Blue and Tabasco Orange Brighten up the interior and are accompanied by a range of different colored door trims, center consoles, air vent rings, and door handles. The Corsa's dashboard also comes with a new dashboard molding with a more textured skin.With a new sat-nav system, it would only be right for Opel to keep the technology up-to-speed in the Corsa, and to Their Credit, They did so by making the Corsa Bluetooth, iPod, and USB compatible.
2012 Opel Corsa hatchback gets new engine Corsa 1.3 CDTI Ecoflex That produces 95 horsepower diesel engine with an equally new-and now standard - Start / Stop technology. 2012 Opel Corsa five-door hatchback variants are also getting a good reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, Achieving 3.6-liters/100km and 95g/km of CO2. 2012 Opel Corsa hatchback sold at price around £ 9.995 or about $ 15.750. 2012 Opel Corsa hatchback interior, with bright colors for give more spirit for the car cabin. 2012 Opel Corsa Hatchback dashboard also comes with a new dashboard with a more textured leather.

The facelifted Opel Corsa gets a new engine in the form of a Corsa 1.3 CDTI diesel Ecoflex That produces 95 horsepower with an equally new-and now standard - Start / Stop technology. Thanks to the modified Ecoflex engines, the new Corsa now boasts of a fuel-consumption of 4.2 liters for every 100 km, the which is down from the 4.6 liters for every 100 miles the previous model boasted.The new Corsa will of cost a pretty pedestrian 9.995 pounds - or about $ 15.750 based on current exchange rates. At first glance, the new Corsa - ESPECIALLY the Lime Green paint finish - looks uncannily like the Mazda2, down to the smiling fascia.

2012 Peugeot 308 Review

2011-10-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

The new Peugeot 308 has a new look, an innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology to optimize fuelconsumption and CO2 emissions, the which start at just 98 g / km.

With new lines, subtly incorporates the latest Peugeot 308 Brand stylistic codes. Determined to consolidate its leading positions in terms of traction and driving pleasure, the Peugeot 308 is seeking to become a reference in terms of environmental efficiency.

Peugeot's updated-for-2012 Peugeot 308 small car range made its debut at a local sales today's Australian International Motor Show opening, alongside the brand-new 508 Sedan and Touring range.
Peugeot's lion emblem updated features prominently at the front and rear and there are also new wheel designs across the range.

In Australia, the updated Peugeot 308 is Offered with a range of Euro V-compliant engines, including the entry-level 1.4 liter VTi petrol engines, along with the 1.6 liter VTi petrol and 1.6 liter turbocharged petrol engine.
Depending on spec, transmissions include five-and six-speed manual transmissions, and six-speed manual and automatic transmissions.

The new Peugeot 308 comes with a new look, features innovative e-HDi micro-hybrid technology and optimizes fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, the which start from just 98 g / km.
With its new lines, the Peugeot 308 subtly incorporates the Marque's latest stylistic codes. This offer, on the "entry level" engine, is available with a semi-automatic manual gearbox and, for the first time, with a full manual gearbox, for optimum driveability.
The dimensions and quality of equipment on the new 308 Remain unchanged, regardless of body shape, guaranteeing a spacious and comfortable passenger compartment.

2012 BMW 3-series Review

2011-10-18T08:30:00.000-07:00

Following a Refresher for 2009, BMW has introduced an all-new 3-Series sedan for 2012. The 2012 BMW 3-Series sedan features more room, less weight, and new engines. The 230-hp 3.0-liter base engine in the 328i is now replaced with a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine.The BMW 335i rolls on with a turbo straight-six 3.0-liter engine developing 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Will it offer similar performance as the outgoing car: 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds and a top speed limited to 155 mph.
BMW says handling characteristics and the dynamic nature of the 3-Series have also improved. Options include Comfort, Sport, Sport +, Pro and Eco modes. Optionally available for the new 2012 BMW 3-Series is an Adaptive M Sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers, Variable Sports Steering to replace the electromechanical power steering system, brake and an M Sport package. The Sport, Luxury, and Modern Lines Their own will from each add character to the sports sedan. The Sport Line Will feature high-gloss black Accents on the exterior and a black interior with red Accents, The Luxury Line Will feature chrome elements on the exterior and interior as well as wood trim inside, and the Modern Line Will be detailed in satinated aluminum on the exterior as well as wood grain inside. Also available is an M Sport package, the which features a special body kit, a sport suspension lowers the car by That 0.4 of an inch, and 18 - or 19-inch M alloy wheels.
Well, the sixth-generation,2012 BMW 3-Series is here, and we're about to find out. From what we've seen of the press kit so far, BMW is continuing to tap dance That line the between ever-Increasing efficiency demands and the driver's car attributes That helped the make the 3 Series - and by extension the BMW - famous.Due in the U.S. next February, the new generation 2012 BMW 3-Series not surprisingly gets a unique sheetmetal treatment, with cues coming from the BMW i8 hybrid sports and big brother 5 and 7 series models.Reducing weight means Improving efficiency.Both engines are now available with BMW's eight-speed automatic transmission, the which is new to the 3 Series and Further improves efficiency. Though the gear is Wider spreads with the eight-speed compared to the outgoing six-speed auto, BMW says shifting is smooth and optimum ratios are available for Practically any situation.Additional fuel-efficiency optimization tricks for the 2012 BMW 3-Series include BMW's Auto Start-Stop and Brake Energy Regeneration systems, and a new mode ECOPRO added to the automaker's Driving Dynamics Control system. Select ECORPRO mode using BMW's Driving Dynamics Control switch (Comfort Sport, Sport + are the other options), and optimized throttle mapping will of the output power limit.

2012 Chevrolet Orlando Review

2011-10-18T07:35:00.000-07:00

Typically, the exceptions to the rule are vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz B-Class or Nissan X-Trail - That compact utility vehicles are fuel efficient and priced in the lower end of Their segments. With vehicle prices around 30% higher than the United States, and fuel prices beyond $ 5/gallon, Canadians growing niche to buy vehicles similar to Those purchased by European consumers.The Chevrolet Orlando is one Such vehicle intended for world markets, That Will not make it to America, but Will be sold in Canada thanks to its low prices, a small footprint and efficient 4-cylinder engine. Since the vehicle already met every other unified North American standards, it was an easy choice to sell it in Canada, where the Mazda5 enjoys brisk sales and a near monopoly on the small minivan market.The Orlando is built in Korea and engineering was largely overseen by GM Daewoo (yes, that Daewoo), GM's Korean engineering arm. GM Daewoo also worked on the Cruze compact car, a vehicle That has gained widespread market acceptance, even if it's no longer The Pinnacle of compact car engineering. The Orlando isn'ta total bore to drive, but the 2.4L Ecotec 4-cylinder engine and 6-speed gearbox do not hold up Their end of the bargain.

Let's do a quick recap of Famous People, Places and Things That bears the name Orlando. There is the Hunky Hollywood star Orlando Bloom, the not-so-Hunky actor Tony Orlando, and there was even a 1992 chick-flick entitled, you guessed it, Orlando. While the name does not really imply anything Uniquely Canadian, the new 2012 Chevrolet Orlando does Orlando Because this is one that's only available in Canada, at least within the confines of North America.
The Global Delta platform was designed to be a mass-appeal front-wheel-drive vehicle, and the masses find it appealing if you go by how well the Cruze, the which shares the platform, is selling.
With the retro-styled Chevrolet HHR bowing out, the Orlando is slipping in as an MPV with current styling and contemporary features, and it also adds a third row to accommodate up to seven people. At current exchange rates, that equals $ 20.733 USD. However, Canadians always pay more for vehicles. The Orlando's broad grille and prominent Chevy bow-tie have this kind of Brash statement attached to Them, as if to say "We're back," while the aggressive wheels-out, body-in stance Appear Both contemporary and rugged. The roofline is fairly low, and around Orlando's beefy back the C-pillar and over-sized taillights Appear decidedly upscale.
Even with A Few options, the base LS model Quickly Exceeds the next trim level up in price. Our route was outlined in a guide book, the which left us feeling almost naked without navigation since it is only available as an option on the $ 29.735 CAD (estimated $ 27.199 USD) top-line LTZ Orlando. It performed great in the rain with its sure-footed traction StabiliTrac, not once invoking the ABS under braking. The dash of the Orlando is very current but utilitarian at the same time. Not so with the Orlando. Beyond the funky system, the interior's fit and finish is impressive. An array of quality plastics is complemented by some brushed aluminum-look Accents in Addition to a dramatic piano black inserts That stretches from door handle to door handle. During the long trip, We decided to Spend our restless moments in the second-and third-row seating. Each row is comfortable with ingress and egress past the 60-40 split second row into the 50/50 third row being a snap for a 5'10 "adult. Orlando's Under the lid is a direct-injected 2.4-liter Ecotec engine Basically That gets the job done. While all of our testers were the resource persons equipped with automatic transmissions, it was tough to say if the auto tranny helped or hurt the Orlando's performance. In a place where gas is over $ 5/gallon, Canadians are happy to Hear this family Will get hauler 10.6 L/100km (22.5 mpg converted) in the city and an impressive 6.9 L / 100km (34 mpg converted) on the highway, with even better economy Pls equipped with the manual transmission (23/37 mpg converted). When reviewing a vehicle like the Orlando, it's Important to put yourself in the mindset of its potential buyers. In That Sense, the Orlando Appears to knock one out of the park in terms of value, functionality and features.

2012 Hyundai Sonata Review

2011-10-17T06:06:00.000-07:00

Sounds daunting, right? With That in mind, the all-new 2011 Hyundai Sonata is being placed right back into the middle of the hotly-contested family sedan segment, already occupied by established players Such as the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion and Chevrolet Malibu, to name just a few.
Completely redesigned for 2011, the Sonata is freshly styled and more spacious than its predecessor.

Erase everything you know about yesterday's Sonata. Forget Those memories, delete the images. Reformat the hard drive. Created by the team Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, California, the sleek new four-door is a fresh face in a segment full of cookie-cutter sedans. Interesting and stylish, the Sonata offers an Engaging mix of traditional four-door sedan and coupe rolled into one.

For the 2012 Sonata, Hyundai adds a new Telematics service (Blue Link), a higher-resolution touchscreen display to the optional navigation system and a panoramic sunroof to the Limited trim levels. Among midsize sedans, the 2012 Hyundai Sonata is the Korean automaker's Contender. Inside, the Sonata is big enough That the EPA deems it a "large" car.
The 2012 Hyundai Sonata is a midsize family sedan available in GLS, SE and Limited trim levels. The sole optional package for the GLS equipment includes alloy wheels, automatic headlights and an eight-way power driver seat. Opting for the SE with the turbocharged engine also adds dual-zone automatic climate control and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. An optional Navigation and Sunroof package bundles (you guessed it) a navigation system with touchscreen display, a rearview camera, premium Infinity speakers and a sunroof.
The plush Sonata Limited has all the SE's features, but substitutes 17-inch alloy wheels, a cushier suspension and full leather upholstery. It also gains side mirror turn signal repeaters, a panoramic sunroof, heated seats (front and rear), dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an upgraded audio system (with HD radio and a six-CD changer) Accents and unique interiors. The turbocharged variant Limited adds 18-inch wheels, dual exhaust tips and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. The standard Sonata engine is a 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 198 hp and That 184 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the GLS, while a six-speed automatic is optional on That trim and standard on the SE and Limited. Sonatas sold in California-emission states can have PZEV emissions certification, though the output drops slightly to 190 hp.
A powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine generating 274 hp and 269 lb-ft of torque is available on SE and Limited models. The six-speed automatic is standard. In Edmunds performance testing, a Sonata GLS 2.4-liter with automatic transmission accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds. The Sonata's EPA fuel economy estimates are equally impressive. The 2.4-liter engine is rated at 24 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 28 combined, regardless of transmission. The 2.0-liter turbo, despite its significant boost in power, a very impressive returns 22/34/26 mpg.
All 2012 Hyundai sonatas come equipped with antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, front seat side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, active front head restraints and BlueLinx Telematics emergency.
In government testing, the Sonata earned a top five-star rating for overall crash protection, four out of five stars for front-impact protection and five stars for side-impact protection. In Edmunds brake testing, the Sonata GLS Came to a stop from 60 mph in 128 feet. A 2.0-liter turbo model with Wider tires stopped slightly shorter at 120 feet. The 2012 Hyundai Sonata strikes a perfectly acceptable balance the between comfort and confidence.

2012 Buick Verano Review

2011-10-17T05:48:00.000-07:00

In Spanish, the word, Äúverano, Äù means summer. Befitting a Buick, AOS image, the Verano, AIA mechanical cousin of the new Chevrolet Cruze, the which means it, AOS a notch Smaller than the Regal, Äîwill be quiet and luxurious. To That end, the front-drive Verano Will have laminated glass, triple door seals and premium leather upholstery, plus 10 standard airbags, an available heated steering wheel and the latest OnStar That system permits seamless communications the between the Buick Verano and the driver, AOS smartphone .
The standard engine is GM, AOS direct-injected 2.4-liter Ecotec 4-cylinder, the which sends 177 bhp and 160 lb.-ft. of torque to the front wheels via a standard 6-speed automatic transmission. Buick says the Verano Will hit 60 mph in 8.0 seconds, and get an estimated 31 mpg on the highway. Via OnStar, AOS remote vehicle access, the Buick Verano drivers can do some amazing Things with a smartphone. Some people naturally Might Dismiss the new 2012 Buick Verano as nothing more luxurious than a Chevy Cruze with a bigger engine.
The 2012 Buick Verano is an all-new model competes That decidedly sparse in the compact luxury sedan segment. The Verano 2012 represents the smallest vehicle in the Buick lineup, and possibly one of the smallest luxury cars on the market. The front-wheel-drive 2012 Buick Verano has a different engine than the Chevy lineup and Will be Offered initially with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder makes 177 horsepower and That 170 pound-feet of torque. Fuel economy estimates place it at 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway. Will Amenities include leather seating, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, push-button start and dual-zone automatic climate control.

2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer SUV news review

2011-10-14T10:29:00.000-07:00

Chevrolet plans to introduce the new TrailBlazer as a 2013 model early next year, but so far only sales in global markets, have been confirmed.

This platform, developed by GM engineers in Brazil, is available in Both rear-drive and all-wheel drive variants and can be powered by either gasoline or diesel engines.

Pictured above is a teaser of the new 2013 Chevrolet TrailBlazer, the which will from the make its official world debut at the 2011 Dubai Motor Show next month.

Interesting ...
Word has it that the new midsized TrailBlazer was designed specifically for the Asian market, where SUVs are exponentially more popular Becoming much like the boom That took place here in the U.S. of A and crippled our automobile industry (whether the boom in Asia Will follow suit is a discussion for another day).
Making its first debut in Thailand in 2012, the 2013 TrailBlazer is built off of the same That platform underpins the new Chevrolet Colorado pickup, the which was developed by General Motors of Brazil. The TrailBlazer debuts later this year in November at the Dubai Auto Show and Will be built and sold in South America, Asia and Thailand

Chevrolet has Announced the return of the TrailBlazer, and confirmed the SUV That Will share abody-on-frame platform with the new Chevrolet Colorado pickup. You may recall That We published spyphotos of the mid-size ute this past summer.
Like the Colorado, the TrailBlazer Will be a global vehicle. It's worth noting That Chevy already offers Americans the unibody Equinox in this general size range, the which preclude Could possibly offering the TrailBlazer here. But towing and hauling Are not really Equinox strengths-its respective maximums are 3500 and 1190 pounds-and GM Says That the TrailBlazer will "combine the hauling and towing capability of an SUV with the ride comfort and efficiency of a crossover." Ficus-transporting aficionados Rejoice!

2013 Mercedes-Benz CLS-class Wagon / Shooting Brake Spy Future Cars

2011-10-14T10:13:00.000-07:00

Mercedes-Benz has long acknowledged That Such a version of the CLS Will be built, and the shots here show two versions of the car: The gray car is equipped with the AMG appearance package (standard on the CLS550 sold here), while the white features regular car fascias and the odd, aero-focused 17-inch wheels from the European-market CLS250 CDI.
(Besides the odd spelling, that car also took liberties with the layout; wagons shooting brakes are traditionallybased on coupes, and features two side doors.) Next to the Audi A7 and its faster hatchback, the CLS veers decidedly Towards the station-wagon side, with a shorter and more upright rear window and hatch.
Besides the 402-hp CLS550 (Called CLS500 there), the European market also gets the choice of the 302-hp CLS350 and the diesel-powered CLS350 CDI (262 hp) and CLS250 CDI (201 hp). Production of the CLS wagon-We expect it Will be Called the Shooting Brake in spite of its extra doors-will start next year in Sindelfingen, Germany, alongside the regular CLS, the E-and S-Class, the CL, the SLS AMG , and the occasional Maybach.

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With four doors and a rear cargo area, the CLS Shooting Brake is more of an estate / wagon than a true shooting brake, the which is typically a two-door, extended-rear, coupe-based car.

Of course, expect a high-performance CLS63 AMG Shooting Brake model complete with the Affalterbachtuner's twin-turbocharged 5.5-liter V-8 channeling 518 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque through therear wheels.

Look out for the new Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake in showrooms next summer, most Likely as a 2013 model.

2012 Kia Optima ,SX Turbo& Hybrid Review

2011-10-13T12:35:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Kia Optima equipped anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, curtain airbags That runs the entire length of the vehicle and airbags on the side for Those seated in the front. There's plenty of room for passengers in Both the front and back seats to stretch Their legs. The vehicle has a storage capacity of 14.8 cubic feet.
The 2012 Kia Optima is a midsize sedan and is available in two models, LX and EX. The entry level LX model is equipped with a five speed manual transmission. The fuel economy ratings of the Optima equipped with the 2.4 liter engine are 24 miles per gallon on city streets and 34 miles per gallon on the highway. Optional equipment on the 2012 Optima LX model, are floor mats, keyless entry, cruise control and a steering wheel has a telescoping That facility and music system controls.
With the 2012 Optima SX Turbo, Kia Continues to PROVE its place in the global auto market, showcasing an intuitive ability to meet the practical needs of drivers without sacrificing the fun, sporty ethos That has Become the brand's hallmark.Featuring a handsome exterior design, a luxuriously-equipped cabin and a fuel-efficient turbocharged engines, the new Kia Optima SX Turbo provides impressive value. Boasting an athletic 274 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, the Turbo produces Optima SX V6-like performance with the fuel economy of a 4-cylinder thanks to the smart Addition of a turbocharger.Further Driving ease is aided through a host of thoughtfully-designed amenities That grace the interior cabin of the Optima.

Could the new Kia Optima Hybrid be the frugal shopper's green alternative to the mainstream Camry and the Fusion or even the Lexus HS250h? From the outside, the new Optima is by far the Looker of the mid-size hybrid segment. Like the EPA numbers with hybrids, your mileage May Vary styling.The look makes the Optima's dash fairly upscale in comparison with the Camry and Fusion competition.Standard equipment Lately has been a hallmark and the Kia Optima Hybrid is no different; power mirrors, fog lamps, iPod / USB integration, touch screen radio, steering wheel audio and phone controls, Bluetooth, dual-zone climate control, one-touch power windows, air conditioned glove box, trip computer, auto-dimming rear view mirror and power driver's seat are Among the long list of standard features on the Optima Hybrid. To keep prices low That at the level of hybrid sports Kia's only one option: the $ 5,000 "premium package". Five-large gets you the panoramic sunroof, navigation system, backup camera, up-level Infinity sound system, HID headlamps, 17-inch wheels, power passenger seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, snazzier trim bits, auto dimming rear-view-mirror, and the holy grail: the heated steering wheel. Standard tech has recently become a hallmark and the Kia Optima Hybrid is no different. The Optima Hybrid is the first Kia to come with the new UVO infotainment system by Microsoft. The premium package integrates the climate control into the large display as well as the crisp hybrid status displays. Under the hood beats the Optima Hybrid 2.XL a four-cylinder engine, essentially the same "Theta II 'engine in the majority of Hyundai / Kia models but retuned to run on a modified Atkinson cycle. In hybrid form the engine turns out 168HP at 6.600 rpm and 154 lb-ft at 4.250 rpm. The clutch packs enable the Optima to operate under electric-only, gasoline-only, or Both. Out on the road in the Optima delivers a firm, quiet ride. Due to the lower a cd of .25 vs .28 the regular Optima's combined with the frequent all-electric Locomotion, the noise is particularly muted in the hybrid model. If you prefer a smooth CVT experience the other hybrids Will be your cup of tea, if shifts are more your thing, the Optima delivers in spades. If highway cruising describes the majority of the miles on your future hybrid, the Optima is the natural choice as it delivers the highest highway numbers in the bunch, four more MPGs than Fusion. You may have noticed I'm Ignoring the Sonata Hybrid. The Optima's Biggest feature, like most working class, is its price tag. At $ 26.500 the Optima is significantly cheaper than the $ 28.600 $ 36.330 Fusion or the Lexus HS250h. Toyota has obviously decided the Optima is encroaching on Their turf and the 2012 Camry Hybrid is now the cheapest in the bunch at $ 25.900.Is the new Camry Hybrid is really the better car for the bargain hunter? How is a $ 31.500 Hybrid the better value? It still undercuts the competition and delivers loaded with features like ventilated seats, heated rear seats, heated steering wheel and panoramic roof not available on the other hybrids. If you want a smooth driving hybrid sedan under 30K, buy the Ford. If you want a great car under $ 30K, skip the Hybrid and just buy a turbo Optima, if you are seeking a premium hybrid sedan, give the fully-loaded Optima Hybrid a long look before you swing by the Lincoln or Lexus dealer.

2012 Chrysler 200 Reviews

2011-10-13T12:14:00.000-07:00

Just a year after its introduction, the Chrysler 200 mid-size lineup is arguably the already better-established than the longtime Sebring models They replaced - thanks to a well-Implemented ad campaign, and Eminem. The 2012 Chrysler 200 Convertible and 200 do carry over with the Sebring's bones, but They do away with its overwrought styling, low-buck interiors and stiff ride. Likewise, Chrysler has doubled up on insulation to the make the 200's interior a very quiet place (except for the coarse four-cylinder engine's note), and softened the ride. While the 2012 Chrysler 200 is Mostly up to the standards of comfort, space, and safety That you'd find in models like the Hyundai Sonata or the Toyota Camry, it's still missing some of the standard features, like Bluetooth connectivity, that all shoppers are expecting.

The front-wheel drive Chrysler 200 is Offered in sedan and convertible body styles, as well as four trim levels - LX (sedan only), Touring, Limited and S. Building on the value-packed LX trim, the Touring adds aluminum wheels, an 8-way power driver's seat, automatic climate control, satellite radio and a garage door opener. Safety features include stability and traction control systems, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, active front head restraints, six airbags, tire pressure monitoring and a security system.

We all saw the Super Bowl ad: an angry-looking Eminem behind the wheel of a Chrysler 200 sedan, driving on the mean streets of downtown Detroit.
The 2011 Chrysler 200 S sedan and convertible being shown in New York That Might finally deliver on promised Boast No-Excuses During the Super Bowl spot.
Them To differentiate from lesser models, the 200 S receives a new grille with black background and Chrysler's latest winged logo.

2012 Toyota Celica Review

2011-10-12T11:09:00.000-07:00

Toyota and Subaru have restarted development of Their compact-sport-coupe project. Subaru has just Announced its version of the car Will be Called BRZ. Mighty Toyota's once-popular sporty coupe is set to be reborn as a low-dollar, high-mpg-MX5 Mazda and Hyundai Genesis Coupe-fighter with rear-wheel drive powertrain and a Subaru. Journalists all over are buzzing about the Announced "low-cost sports car" being hatched by Subaru and Toyota. Will sell each brand its own version with specific styling on a shared rear-wheel-drive platform with a Subaru-sourced four-cylinder horizontally opposed engine. In an interview with Digg.com conducted in February 2010, Toyota USA President and CEO Jim Lentz confirmed the company's plans to Produce an "affordable" sports car for the U.S. market. Lentz cited the Toyota FT-86 Concept shown at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show as "a joint-venture product the between Subaru and Toyota ... (that) will be coming to market." A second motivation for Toyota is furthering ties with Subaru parent Fuji Heavy Industries. Itself As for the car, the 2012 Toyota Celica - and its sister Subaru - is rumored to be a sloped-roof hatchback with a slightly larger footprint than the late front-drive Acura RSX coupe (known elsewhere as the Honda Integra). Dimensions Reflect Our numbers are reported on Toyota's Japan media site.

The new sports car Will be based on a unique platform front-engine/rear-wheel drive Toyota Says That Will Ensure "the best possible power-to-weight ratio". On display for the first time in Australia, the FT-86 II Concept is one of Toyota's most aggressive designs to date, and although the production version is Likely to be less dramatic in appearance, Toyota says the concept provides "vital clues" to the production car's design. Spy photos of the born again snapped Toyota Celica That Earlier this year confirmed the vehicle's sporty silhouette Will Remain intact.

Toyota Celica"The 2.0-liter naturally-aspirated engines Brings together the technical know-how and Enthusiasm for sports cars of Both the Subaru and Toyota," reads the official press statement. The concept's rear-wheel drive layout also harks back to Toyota's sports car super giddy period of the 1990s Pls vehicles like the twin turbo Supra rear-wheel ruled the Roost. Toyota Appears to be very serious about its return to the sports car market, also stating that, "The show car was created as part of Toyota's reborn passion for sports-car driving and the intrinsic fun of motoring". A true driver's car from Toyota?

2012 Nissan 370Z Review

2011-10-12T11:00:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Nissan 370Z is the predecessor revised for the 2012 MY. Perhaps most considerably, the fine adjusting of the chassis has been produced in Europe pertaining to Europe, "said Simon Thomas, Senior Vice President of Revenue & Marketing, Nissan throughout Europe. Excellent tuning of the 2012 Nissan 370Z chassis - double wishbones at entry and a multi -link raise - to suit Western Tastes, has centered on the actual dampers the which have been returned to Enrich ride comfort along with coping with high speed. The new understanding Might also hire a new lightweight power lithium-ion battery developed with NEC. The Nissan Z product has always been known for it is thrilling performance from very affordable prices. Maybe cost ought to also take some tiny bit like Nissan are literally faced with completely new domestic competition, in particular affordable Mustang GT. Like the Mustang GT, 2012 Nissan 370Z also offers an incredibly lengthy good reputation affordable performance vehicle.

The NISMO is a high-performance version of the 370Z, NISMO being Nissan's tuner division. The press release for the NISMO Says That the car was designed to be "highly emotional, yet totally functional." The 2011 Nissan 370Z grabs your attention. The Deeply scooped instrument panel with a full-length center console completely separates the driver and passenger seats. Standard interior comfort and convenience features include a push-button start, power windows and doors, cup holders and a four-speaker audio system with redundant (yet convenient) steering-wheel mounted controls.

Aside from the new 2012 Nissan GT-R's Astonishing performance capacity, Nissan has trickled down some of That performance oriented innovation to Their latest "tuned" Z-car, the 2011 Nissan 370Z Nismo. The new 2011 Nissan 370Z Nismo edition embarks on today's technological advancements yet still carries its long-time Z car heritage. The Nismo edition of the 370Z begs to please the track junkie. Other goodies That turn the Nismo edition purest into a car is a limited-slip differential, high-performance tires, upgraded brakes and functional aerodynamics. I can say aside from the slight brake fade after Several hard stops and steering wheel Vibrations in the high RPM range, the Nismo Z is a tuners dream car.
The 3.7-liter V6 pulls hard in the all-new 370Z Nismo without hesitation. With a Curb weight of only 3300 pounds and an almost perfectly balanced 53% / 47% front-rear weight distribution, the Nismo Z is easy to throw around. Inside of the 2011 Nissan 370Z Nismo Will you find a competent interior layout for a sports car. In spite of being a small 2-seater sports coupe, having the roots of Nissan's FMR (Front Mid-engine rear-wheel drive) platform, the 370Z has plenty of room for adults just over 6-feet tall. My one gripe about the interior, possibly a none-issue with the true performance car purist, is the stereo system. Gas mileage figures from the 2011 370Z Nismo come in at 18mpg city and 26mpg highway. Balanced and poised, that is what the new 2011 Nissan 370Z Nismo is all about. The Nismo name-plate dates back to the 80's touted as Nissan's motorsport division. A loaded-up 2011 Nissan 370Z Touring model starts around $ 42.200 while my 2011 370Z Nismo was priced at $ 41.435. The Nismo edition makes for an attractive buy to the automotive enthusiast at heart WHO has room in the garage for a toy.

news 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 review

2011-10-11T07:53:00.000-07:00

Another Important announcement from the Detroit automaker GM auto hits the blogosphere as the company preps roofless its most powerful production model, the all-new 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible for the Los Angeles Auto Show in November. The 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible delivers a maximum torque of 556 lb-ft. "The Camaro ZL1 Convertible Will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro's chief engineer. The Chevy engineers have worked hard on the convertible enhancing the roof structure with a bunch of enhancements like a tower-to-tower brace under the hood, a transmission reinforcement support brace, underbody tunnel brace and a front 'X' brace and stiffer cradle as well as rear underbody 'V' braces.
The traction management system in the ZL1 Will also help WHO Those muscle car owners want to stick to the straight track, making for one quarter mile monster car in stock form. Removing the roof of a car can severely affect the structural rigidity so the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 Convertible features some unique modifications That help it offer the topless freedom without compromising the performance capabilities of the ZL1. "The Camaro ZL1 Convertible Will be one of the most powerful and most capable, convertibles available at any price," said Al Oppenheiser, Camaro's chief engineer. Check out the gallery on the right for a Closer Look at the 2013 ZL1 Camaro Convertible!

2012 Ferrari 458 Spider review

2011-10-10T08:59:00.000-07:00

In our November 2011 issue, We anointed the Ferrari 458 Italy the year's Best Driver's Car after running it back-to-back against 10 of the greatest sports car on the planet. After hot laps at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, road drives the between Monterey and Los Angeles; and loads of instrumented testing and seat time; We concluded That there is no better combination of ride, handling, and outright performance in the world than the Ferrari 458 Italy . Welcome to the Ferrari 458 Spider, the world's first hardtop convertible mid-engine supercar, and arguably the finest road-going conveyance money can buy. Every Ferrari oozes sex (well, except Perhaps the California), but the Spider? The rear deck clamshells skyward while the aluminum roof separates into a large forward section and rear Smaller sliver. Roof up, the Spider looks longer and leaner than the Italian, with a cab-forward yet fastback silhouette. Dropping the top opens up the profile and puts Greater emphasis on the dramatic back-sloping buttresses. And They Are not just stylistic devices - the buttresses protect occupants' skulls Should the Spider flip on its back. This folding roof is an engineer's dream: a stunningly elegant solution to a fiendishly Difficult problems of the Ferrari engineers have been working on since 2004. The time and attention to detail are everywhere apparent; for instance, Ferrari claims the hardtop system weighs 55 pounds less than similar softtop Mechanisms. Despite reinforcing the side sills and Bulkhead the between the cabin and engine, Ferrari admits the Spider Gives up 30 percent in chassis rigidity to the Italians, while gaining approximately 100 pounds and a touch of aerodynamic drag. Ferrari sent us motoring around the tight country roads of Italy's Emilia-Romagna region famous, and the sensations were the resource persons eerily familiar, even if the roads were the resource persons notes. Ferrari Spider equipped with the Wind Stops, a retracting rear window ("Like in a 4 Runner," one journalist observed snarkily) the between the buttresses. With the top up, this window can be fully opened to allow the heavenly reverberations to enter the cabin unobstructed. Top down, the window retracts by two-thirds to a position determined Ferrari, via wind-tunnel testing, that minimizes buffeting to driver and passenger. The Spider was purpose-built for the guy more interested in experiencing all of the Pleasures, aural and Otherwise, the world's best driver's car has to offer.

Despite some very compelling evidence to the contrary, the Ferrari 458 Spider Actually is not perfect. Also, Ferrari offers no manual transmission in the 458, Spider or coupe. In Ferrari's Zeal to locate pretty much every control away from the car's steering-column-mounted shift paddles, the turn signals, controlled by a stalk in just about every other car ever built, are now actuated by buttons on the steering wheel. There's pretty much nothing else to complain about, Because the 458 Spider is a spectacular car. We've said as much about the coupe version, the 458 Italians, after every encounter. Following our last drive, We concluded That the Italian is "Perhaps the Closest man has come to creating an animal." The topless 458, the which arrives in January, is the fifth generation of Ferrari's mid-engine, V-8 volume car to get The Spider treatment. The company Considered a single retracting fabric piece, Renault LeCar-style. It thought about stacking the hard roof panels, à la the Pontiac G6 with the Panoramic Roof option. The 458 Spider's solution is the best combination of all these approaches. Unlike the Superamerica, a small piece of roof separates at the trailing edge, tucks vertically behind the seats, and is covered by the main roof panel, all of the which is then covered by a hard, rear-hinged tonneau cover. That Ferrari claims this arrangement is 55 pounds lighter than a conventional soft-top arrangement. Downsides? Well, there's no chance That Ferrari can do an engine-viewing window as it did on the 360 and 430 Spider. The engine would be half-blocked by the retracted roof, anyway. Ferrari has no plans to offer one. The new top arrangement steals a nominal two millimeters of headroom compared to the coupe. So no high-top fades, okay? The Ferrari 458 Spider's engine, the which makes the same 562 hp at 9000 rpm and 398 lb-ft of torque at 6000 rpm as the coupe's, now gulps of water from large, cave-like openings near the trailing edge of the rear deck. Ferrari 458 Spider That says buyers have a "sporty but not aggressive driving style," compared to the coupe customer. Also, the Spider is claimed to be 110 pounds heavier than the coupe and its structure is not quite as stiff, despite the structural reinforced sills and buttresses. All of this is supposed to indicate That the Spider is less intense and less sporty than the coupe. The Spider's steering ratio is absurdly quick, and its turn-in behavior is immediate and Certain. The Spider is plenty sporty, non-stop inducing piloerection. Will you pay 10 or 15 percent more for the Spider than for the coupe, consistent with a percentage increase of past Spiders.

2012 Nissan GT-R Review

2011-10-10T08:38:00.000-07:00

Answering question That consumed a significant part of the 2012 Nissan GT-R's press launch in California in January. The assembled press snorted skepticism. Our 3859-pound test car did an honest 2.9 seconds to 60 mph on our secret high-desert test track running 91-octane California pump gas with the ambient temperature at a slightly chilly 51 degrees. The fourth launch saw it running about 3.3 to 60. (The slowest GT-R time in our logs: 4.1 seconds.) The 2012 barrels through the quarter-mile in 11.2 seconds at 126 mph, almost a full second and 11 mph faster than the car comparo That July 2008.
The 2012 Nissan GT-R gains more power, supplemented by A Few styling and aerodynamic changes to the exterior and A Few revisions to the interior. A new GT-R Black Edition debuts. Where high technology meets high performance, you find some serious automobiles. As an example, look no further than the 2012 Nissan GT-R. As the representative of Nissan's latest technology, the GT-R packs some pretty serious hardware, including a fire-breathing twin-turbo V6, a dual-clutch automated manual transmission, an advanced all-wheel-drive system and a sports-focused suspension with adaptive dampers. The GT-R's performance numbers, push it into the supercar category, yet the Nissan maintains a significantly lower price point.
This year the Nissan GT-R expands its performance envelope even farther. The GT-R's bulk (it weighs around 3.800 pounds) also makes it feel heavier in tight corners than the typical supercar, while Nissan's stiff-legged ride Might Be of concern to WHO drivers value comfort more than outright performance.
Mizuno Attained by elevating these new figures of the turbocharger boost pressure from 0.75 bar to 0.90 bar, tweaking the engine's valve-timing system and altering the air / fuel ratio. Both depress the brake pedal and throttle pedal simultaneously, then let off the brakes, the new 2012 Nissan GT-R GT-R snaps off the line at an ideal 4000 rpm. The extra power is not the only thing Responsible for the car's enhanced acceleration; the new GT-R's aerodynamics are also significantly improved. (The previous GT-R was rated at 15/21.) Changes were the resource persons made to the front and rear caster settings for the Dunlop SP Sport Maxx GT tires, the only tires available for the new GT-R. The GT-R's electronically controlled ATTESA E-TS all-wheel-drive system has been left alone for 2012. Of note is a special GT-R-specific yaw-rate feedback control, the which measures the differences the between the target yaw rate (calculated from steering angle) and the actual yaw rate (detected by the yaw-rate sensor and g sensor) to adjust torque bias. Stopping power is again provided by Brembo monoblock six-piston front and 4-piston rear brakes. The careful eye will of noticed subtle changes to the 2012 GT-R's exterior and interior. In Japan, Nissan is introducing an interesting new program for GT-R customers where owners of 2009, 2010 and 2011 GT-Rs Their cars can get upgraded to 2012 specs ... sort of like upgrading the operating system of your PC from Vista to Windows 7 .

2012 Corvette Stingray Review

2011-10-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

nformation New 2012 Corvette Stingray Review, New 2012 Corvette Stingray Release date, New 2012 Corvette Stingray Price and Specification. 2012 C7 Corvette Stingray sports car models will of release on 2012. At the Birthday Bash Earlier this year, Corvette Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter reassured the gathering enthusiasts That the team is usually wondering subsequent generation Corvette and the way to create it higher. Next Generation C7 Corvette Stingray using additional advanced materials like carbon fiber, aluminum and magnesium moreover as Smaller engines. In mid-engine and rear-engine updates were the resource persons thought about, however the front engine, rear wheel drive platform (RWD) can still keep the engine compact and low value. The new Corvette pride with an five.5-liter V8 engine with an output estimated at 440.
Superchargers for everyone 2012 Corvette Stingray?

The next generation C7 Corvette Stingray sports car Will be launched in 2012 as 2013 models. Next Generation C7 Corvette Stingray using more advanced materials like carbon fiber, aluminum and magnesium as well as Smaller engines. In mid-engine and rear engine updates Considered were the resource persons, but the front engine, rear wheel drive platform (RWD) will continue to keep the engine compact and low cost.

2012 mazda rx8 review

2011-10-05T10:08:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Mazda RX-8 was Awarded four stars out of five stars for protecting the driver in case of a head on collision and all five stars in the same case for the passenger seated in the front. It has easy to read gauges, but the music system and climate control buttons are not easy to read. The reverse opening doors at the back the make entry and exit for passengers easy, but the passengers Should not be Taller then 6 feet.
The 2012 Mazda RX-8 is a 4-passenger sports car. The RX-8 sports car is available in three models, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. The fuel economy ratings of the RX-8 equipped with the manual transmission are 16miles per gallon on city streets and 22 miles per gallon highway.
The 2012 Mazda RX-8 Sport model is equipped with 16 inch tires, air conditioning, CD player and powered accessories. The 2012 Mazda RX-8 Grand Touring models adds a powered drivers seat, the which are heated seats, and mirrors That are heated. A navigation system is optional on the Grand Touring model. What's going on in Mazda's RX department? Rumors are flying of an RX-7 revival, an updated RX-8, and a new rotary engine, but the truth is Likely to be a bit less exciting That the rumors would have you believe. Mazda's own design boss, Ikuo Maeda, toll Autocar That while the car will of Mazda's newest design features of language and technology, it will not be a radical change from the current formula. Mazda is hard at work at a next-generation rotary engine known as the 16X, so called for its larger displacement 1.6L compared to the RX-8's 1.3L Renesis engine. With the rotary's aforementioned aversion to fuel-economy, torque, and emissions laws, though, it'll be a tough sell. The Fact That Mazda already has a two-seat sports car in the Miata and a rotary-powered sports car in the RX-8 sports car makes a third That essentially combines the other two a tough proposition, ESPECIALLY in these cash-strapped times.

2012 Nissan Altima Expert Review

2011-10-03T11:05:00.000-07:00

The 2012 Nissan Altima ranks 10 out of 19 Affordable Midsize Cars. Auto reviewers think the 2012 Nissan Altima is a fine choice for midsize car shoppers, but They say That other cars offer better performance and more features for the same price.
The 2012 Nissan Altima falls in the middle of the class in most areas. The Altima's interior is where it shines. One big downside That Is Mentioned Among automotive reviewers many times is the Altima's interior features expensive. In a highly-competitive class, the Altima has a hard time standing out, but most test drivers think the 2012 Altima is still a solid choice Among midsize cars affordable.
The Nissan Altima is more than a midsize transportation appliance. The Altima is a driver's car. For drivers appreciate WHO sharp handling, the Altima excels. The Nissan Altima is best known as a midsize sedan but it's also available in a coupe version. Each version of the Altima has sharper handling than is expected in a mainstream midsize car. The available V6 engine, closely related to the engine in Nissan's 370Z sports car, delivers exciting performance, with 270 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.
The gas-electric Altima Hybrid Sedan boasts an EPA-rated 35 miles per gallon in the city, extending its range past 600 miles the between fill-ups. Nissan's CVT technology has excelled at. The Altima sedan is comfortable, practical and well suited to growing families. The two-door Altima Coupe looks sportier than the sedan. The Nissan Altima model line fits a wide range of Tastes and budgets. Nissan Altima models get high marks for safety; standard equipment includes a full complement of airbags, anti-lock brakes, Nissan's Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and Traction Control.

2012 Subaru Impreza Review

2011-10-03T10:49:00.000-07:00

The Subaru Impreza Will be redesigned for 2012.
The upcoming redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza has caught many people off-guard. Offered in four-door sedan and five-door hatchback body styles, the new Impreza's styling is more aggressive than before, with a much steeper windshield and strongly accentuated wheel arches. A New, Smaller 2.0-liter flat-4 with 148 horsepower powers the 2012 Impreza. All-wheel drive Will be standard, and transmission choices include a five-speed manual and a new CVT (continuously variable automatic transmission). Subaru fuel mileage estimates for the CVT-equipped Impreza at 27 mpg city and 36 mpg highway, dropping to 25/33 with the five-speed manual. Check back later for more details, driving impressions and buying advice complete once the newly redesigned 2012 Subaru Impreza hits the road.

Subaru Impreza unveiled the 2012 model successor to its best-selling Impreza at the New York Auto Show today, the which Will Arrive in showrooms this fall. With a new dual-cam design and variable intake and exhaust timing, the engine produces 148 bhp at 6200 rpm and 145 lb.-ft. of torque, the which peaks at 4200 rpm. Depending on if you get the 5-speed manual or the CVT (available with steering wheel shift paddles), the Impreza's center differential Will either be a viscous coupling or an electronically managed clutch-type, respectively; Both have a torque split of 50 / 50 front to rear and can transfer 100 percent of available torque to either set of wheels under slippage.
For suspension, Both 4 and 5-door models retain Their double-wishbone rear setups and MacPherson struts in front, although Various improvements in bushings and mounts pillowball help to better locate the chassis. This comes standard on the higher trim of the 2012 Subaru Impreza models, the which also get a rear anti-roll bar.

2012 Infiniti QX56 Review

2011-10-01T08:19:00.000-07:00

The Infiniti QX56 is designed to attract and hold viewers' attention, conveying its underlying sense of power and strength.
The Infiniti QX56 interior Remains Long on luxury and comfort, including standard Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation System, Around View Monitor ™, 13-speaker Bose ® Premium Audio System, available perforated semi-aniline leather-appointed seating and an available dual Theater Package with 7 - inch color monitors. Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS) headlights with auto-leveling and headlight washers are also available. Other exterior features include LED taillights, heated, power-folding sideview mirrors with integrated turn signals, courtesy lights and reverse tilt-down feature, body color running boards, body color front and rear integrated splashguards built into the wheel arches, roof rails, power sliding tinted glass moonroof and a power rear liftgate. The 5.6-liter DOHC 32-valve aluminum-alloy V8 features Infiniti's advanced VVEL (Variable Valve Event & Lift) technology and new Direct Injection Gasoline (DIG ™) system. The VVEL system combines hydraulic-controlled variable valve timing and electronically controlled variable valve lift on the intake side to help Improve performance and response. The QX is Offered in rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with the 4WD model featuring Infiniti's proven All-Mode 4WD system with Auto, 4H and 4L modes. All QX models also include Hill Start Assist.
2012 Infiniti QX56 An advanced Hydraulic Body Motion Control System is available on 2WD and 4WD Both models (as part of the Deluxe Touring Package).
Braking is provided by 4-wheel disc brakes (13.8-inch vented discs front and rear) with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). A hydraulic brake booster helps to generate a firm pedal feel with reduced travel, thereby Increasing the system responsiveness. Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) and 2-wheel or four-wheel Active Brake Limited-Slip (ABLS) are standard on every Infiniti QX56. Engine-speed-sensitive power steering is also standard.
The Infiniti QX56 maximum towing capacity is 8.500 pounds for Both 2WD and 4WD models.

2013 Lincoln MKS Review

2011-10-01T07:52:00.000-07:00

As you can see through the black cladding on this car, the 2013 Lincoln MKS grille still features two sections filled with vertical bars. Also visible are foglight housings That are Smaller and lower on the bumper.

What's the giveaway? The news inside the cabin is good or bad Depending on how you feel about the controversial MyLincoln Touch technology (also known as MyFord Touch) and the touch-sensitive volume-and fan-control strips introduced on the 2011 MKX. The MKS MKX also Will's aim of adopting the 305-hp version of the 3.7-liter V-6. At this point, we're guessing That Will skip the Taurus Lincoln's new four-cylinder EcoBoost engines, but We Are not ruling it out completely.

2013 Lincoln MKS,Just as on the MKS, the MKT's large, split grille slats gets thinner.
The current range of engines-a naturally aspirated 3.7-liter V-6 and a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V-6, may be joined by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four; if the small turbo engine makes the cut, it Will Likely power only the front-drive models.

2012 Buick Regal GS Review

2011-09-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

It's good, easily the best-driving Buick in Decades. The 2012 Buick Regal GS packs some decidedly un-Buick-like parts. The revamped engine boosts power from 220 horsepower to 270 at 5.300 rpm. Then there's this shock: A six-speed manual comes standard. There's also a pair of 14-inch front disc brakes with Brembo four-piston fixed calipers (rear brakes Remain unchanged). Add to this a three-mode version of Buick's Interactive Drive Control adaptive damper system as well as a hyper Strut front suspension.
The front seats are bolstered a slightly more variation of the Regal's standard seats. Baby steps, folks, baby steps. Blip the throttle and there's barely a hint of rasp. There's some turbo lag initially, but unlike our long-term Regal, the which is never, ever inspiring, the GS's Breathed-on mill has a healthy, We dare say, exciting midrange (95 percent of the torque is available from 2.300 to 4.900 rpm ).
There's serious braking power and pedal a much firmer than what we're used to in the Regal. OK, so We know the Regal GS has power. More importantly, there's now a third mode (beyond the Standard and Sport) to the IDC driver-selectable adaptive damper system, called "GS." Buick fitted its hyper Strut front suspension in the interest of reducing torque steer and maintaining negative camber through corners. Besides firmer damping, GS Brings also some welcome heft to the hydraulic power steering.

The 2012 Buick Regal GS Will start at $ 35.310 (including $ 860 destination) Pls starts production late this summer at GM's Oshawa, Ontario, Canada plant. There's no doubt That the GS rectifies many of the performance problems found in the standard Turbo Regal, and with its added power, stiffer suspension and manual gearbox, it Will attract some enthusiasts back to Buick.

A recent new product blitz and brand Revamp Certainly has resulted in a better Buick, but the 2012 Buick Regal GS thrusts the marque into somewhat unfamiliar territory: the luxury sport sedan arena. The performance shortcomings of the Turbo Regal CXL We tested last year are easily resolved in the GS. Good thing for the Regal GS That straight-line speed is not everything Pls it comes to performance. The GS also out-braked its competitors in our tests, stopping from 60-0 mph in a sports-car-rivaling 105 feet (to put That in perspective, a Corvette Grand Sport We tested stops just a foot shorter), compared to the 110 feet needed for the A4, and a pedestrian 129 feet for the TSX V-6. Numbers aside, the Regal GS is a lot of fun to drive. The two alternate suspension modes, Sport and GS, the damper settings each Make a smidge more aggressive than the standard mode. GS mode is yet another 20 percent stiffer than Sport, and also increases steering effort. That feel for added steering GS made the default mode for us Whenever was Called for spirited driving.

2012 Suzuki Kizashi Review

2011-09-30T07:35:00.000-07:00

The Suzuki Kizashi is a well equipped sports sedan. Available in front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual or CVT transmission, or all-wheel drive with CVT, the Kizashi offers exceptional value in S, SE, Sport GTS, SLS and Sport trims. Smartpassâ? pushbutton start system, automatic dual-zone climate control, and steering wheel audio controls. The 2012 Suzuki Kizashi sport sedan offers exceptional value and performance and carries over from 2011.
The Suzuki Kizashi was the all-new for 2010, and two new Sport models have been added to the 2011 Kizashi lineup of sporty sedans. Suzuki Was not just bragging, as the Kizashi has been a resounding sales success and driving. All-wheel drive is an option. Styling-wise, the Kizashi looks Both potent and elegant, in its midsize modest manner. New for 2011 are the Kizashi and Kizashi SLS GTS models. Both Sport special feature bodywork, including a more muscular front fascia and lower grille, side sill extensions, a spoiler on the trunk lid, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The layout of the controls and instruments is clean, and the standard equipment is plentiful, including climate control vents for the rear seat. Both Sport models get Their own steering wheels, and the SLS Sport gets contrasting stitching on its leather seats.
Suzuki Kizashi straddles the line the between compact and midsize sedans. Popular Mechanics magazine included it in a face-off of midsize sedans in 2010, and the Kizashi scored first-place in handling, braking, skid pad grip, and acceleration, against the Honda Accord, Toyota Camry, Ford Fusion, Subaru Legacy, Nissan Altima , Mazda 6, and Chevrolet Malibu. The Kizashi has surpassed the government's 2014 standards for pole side impact and front offset collision.