Truck and car info

3 Steps Headlight Lens Restoration, bright up your car lenses

2016-04-29T00:10:00.000-07:00

3M 39008 Headlight Lens Restoration System

Plastic surfaces are great for giving vehicles lightweight, durable components – from plastic headlight lenses to motorcycle windshields, plastic tail lights, trailers and more. But these plastic components can yellow and haze with weather, sun and sand, limiting visibility and diminishing the appearance and value of the vehicle.Yellow plastic lenses reduce headlight brightness, and replacement with new lenses can be very expensive.While the impact on a vehicle's value varies, the dangers in terms of limited visibility are clear: It is a factor in 2.8 million accidents, 23,000 fatal crashes and 2,300 pedestrian deaths each year, according to the Motor Vehicle Lighting Council. Dim headlight bulbs and hazy plastic headlight lenses or surfaces may lead to this reduced visibility, putting you, your passengers and other cars at risk. The AAIA Car Care Council found that 26 percent of the cars it inspected had issues with their lighting system. Millions of cars on the road today have plastic headlight lenses. The problem increases with the age of the lens, and with the average age of cars on the road about 10 years old, the problem is growing.

By restoring clarity to the lens, the performance of the headlight is improved and the appearance of the vehicle is enhanced and level of safety is increased.

You can produce professional restoration results in three step using The 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System.

1.Sand the hazed surface in a two-stage wet sanding process with the enclosed sanding pads from 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System until the surface is smooth and the dulled layer is removed. A spray bottle and water used in the wet sanding process.

2.Polish with the 3M plastic polish,

3.Buff with the buffing pad to the level of clarity desired in the plastic. In addition to a standard household drill mentioned (1200-1600 rpm) used in the buffing process.

3 steps to restore car lenses clarity

In the past, replacing scratched, clouded or yellowed plastic headlight covers was an expensive necessity in order to preserve safety. But now with the 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System, car and motorcycle owners can shine and restore plastic lenses — including headlights, tail lights, fog and directional lights — to like-new condition for a fraction of the cost. This kit includes everything needed to restore two headlight lenses, excluding the user-supplied household drill (1200-1600 rpm), automotive tape, clean cloth, and spray bottle.

The Do-It-Yourself Solution

The 3M Headlight Lens Restoration System is designed to give do-it-yourselfers an easy and affordable way to repair their vehicle's plastic lens surfaces. Containing various graded sanding pads, pad holders, buffing pads, polish and detailed instructions, it includes everything users need to turn their household drill into a low cost solution to this dangerous automotive problem.

ALL the kits include:
1 - 3M drill backing plate
4 - P800 grit white abrasive discs
6 - P500 grit yellow discs
1 - P3000 Trizact foam disc
1 - Orange foam compounding pad
1 - 1 oz. 3M headlight lens polish sample

Use The "yellow" sanding disk with the drill attachment. The headlight will take on a more cloudy, but uniform, appearance
Use the "white" disk and smooth out the surface
Use the "gray" disk (with water) and begin the polishing of the surface
Finally use the "orange" foam disk with the polishing compound and complete the job.

Instructions are included with the kit and are pretty straightforward. Anyone can do this job in approximately 2 hours or less. The drill attachment is well worth the money.

More information about this system in 3M 39008 Headlight Lens Restoration System

APS F66789H Black Powder Coated Aluminum Billet Grille Bolt Over for select Ford F-150 Models

2016-04-28T21:22:00.002-07:00

Fits like a dream, install took 5 minutes, and all you need just screwdriver, that's it. Simple description to describe this great ford grille.Great looking piece that fits and looks like it was installed from the factory. It is made of strong durable material that is made to last.The design of the product is very smart: It uses the license plate mount points in the front opening. The bottom drops in snugly and the top is easy to fasten down. And it cover the hole wide open ford bumper from 2009 on, even the new F-150s have this gap just waiting to eat rocks and other debris.It has no effect on intake temp after the intercooler. Measured and IAT2 was the same difference before and after the grill.

ford grille

APS F66789H Black Powder Coated Aluminum Billet Grille Bolt Over for select Ford F-150 Models
Here you are the technical detail:

Brand	APS
Item Weight	1.4 pounds
Product Dimensions	25 x 6 x 3 inches
Item model number	F66789H
Exterior	Black Powder Coated
Manufacturer Part Number	F66789H
Folding	No

More information about it:

Bolt Over/Overlay/Bolton 1 pc Grille Insert
Each grille guarantees a whole black satin powder coating with a neat surface.
Air craft grade 6061-T6 aluminum solid billet grille inserts can protect the front end of your vehicle. Whole black powder coating with a neat surface.
Custom fit applications for each trucks, cars and SUVs.
More information about it: Coated Aluminum Billet Grille Ford F-150 Models

Portable Vehicle GPS with Lifetime Maps and Traffic

2016-04-21T23:32:00.000-07:00

Garmin 2597 LMT

What makes this Garmin nüvi 2597LMT 5-Inch is definitely different from it previous product is Lifetime Maps and Traffic. You don't need to pay again and again to update your map! This will make life easier :).

The featured bluetooth of this GPS will enable the connection with your phone and use this unit as a speaker phone so you can still focus to drive your car safely.

Don't worry when you drive in the wavy road or zigzag driving because the Garmin has improved the grip to attach this GPS onto your car window and it is also easy to release it back.

The speed and and connection the satelite is very well improved, it just takes seconds so you can get real on time data and you will not lost in action!

One other good thing of this unit LCD display is you will not see the turn dark display when there is polarized sunglasses. The graphics appear cleaner and there is a menu tab on each screen that you can operate by touchscreen.

Comprehensive Driving Guidance You See and Hear from Garmin nüvi 2597LMT

Active Lane Guidance with voice prompts prepares you to drive through an exit or interchange with confidence. As you approach, an animated model uses brightly colored arrows to indicate the proper lane needed for your route; a friendly voice offers additional help.

Bird’s Eye junction view offers a detailed view of interchanges, looking down as if from overhead. photoReal junction view realistically displays junctions and interchanges along your route, including the surrounding landscape. Brightly colored arrows indicate the proper lane to drive. This nüvi 2597LMT also depicts real road signs as they appear along your route.

Bullet points to summarize 5 reasons make Garmin nüvi 2597LMT is a good choice:

Easy-to-use, dual orientation, touchscreen interface;The traffic feature does not require a subscription. There are no additional fees for this
Garmin Real Directions with Garmin Real Voice guide using recognizable buildings and landmarks
PhotoReal and Bird's Eye junction views offer detailed images of junctions along your route, to ease the stress of merging on or off a roadway
Up Ahead displays nearby services info including restaurants, stores, hospitals and fuel alongside your map and updates as you drive your route
Smartphone Link is a free mobile app that connects your nüvi with your iPhone® or Android(TM) smartphone. When paired, your nüvi can use your phone's existing data plan to share information - such as where you parked, POIs and your destination. Please refer User Manual before use.
Link to more information about this Garmin nüvi 2597LMT 5-Inch

Land Rover Defender ends production

2016-03-30T01:05:00.000-07:00

It is a vehicle that enjoys as much affection as other motoring icons, like the VW Beetle, the Ford Mustang or the original Mini -- but this week, Land Rover is finally turning off the production line for the Defender, the car that lent its name to the company.

For the Defender did that and more; its demise brings to an end a vehicle that can be traced back to 1948, when a car known simply as the Land Rover went on sale in a bid to raise enough cash to restart mainstream car production at Britain's Rover brand.

The new creation, designed primarily for farmers and the military, had an expected shelf life of a few years. However, when its sales comfortably outstripped those of regular Rovers, the Land Rover standalone brand was born.

Lack of tools inspired boxy design

The inspiration for the Land Rover was the original Willys Jeep -- chief designer Maurice Wilks had an example of the American vehicle on his farm in Wales -- but post-war Britain had a number of limitations that affected the design.

Chief among these was the use of lightweight aluminum for the body panels; the designers' hand was forced by the shortage of suitable steel, not to mention a lack of the pressing tools required to bend any curves in the metal.

The slab-sided aluminium's resistance to corrosion brought a useful side effect: it is no coincidence that two-thirds of the two million-odd Land Rovers ever built are reckoned to still be on the road. And off it, if you catch the drift.

It would be unfair to say that the Land Rover has not been developed over the years. Larger, more powerful engines have been introduced, along with plusher trim and a few creature comforts.

It even gained a new name, the Defender, when Land Rover started expanding its line-up with mainstream products like the Discovery and Freelander.

The final limited-edition Defenders, which included a retro-styled version, including heated seats, air-conditioning and even a CD player.

Yet these elements alone could never overcome the car's unshakeable core: a simple chassis layout with a boxy, straight-panelled body and a four-wheel drive system honed on British farmland but equally capable in tropical Africa or the Arctic Circle.

How the Defender became a British cultural icon

For Britons, the Land Rover has become a beacon for durability and dependability -- a tool of the establishment, used by the police service, the coastguard and armed forces, but also politicians, vets, and rock stars.

However, almost 60 years on, crash test legislation and emissions laws have finally killed it off.

It has been the choice of Royals on state visits, and the daily drive of the Queen herself when she's on holiday in Scotland. In the enormously successful Bond movie Skyfall -- as strong a British cultural export as you can find these days -- the return of a classic Aston Martin DB5 caused headlines, but the best car chase in the flick featured an increasingly battered Defender.

Easy to replace?

What next? A replacement isn't likely for at least a couple of years - a sign, perhaps, of how tricky Land Rover's product department is finding it to replace the company's icon.

Such is the car's cultural significance that as successor is seen as a core part of Land Rover DNA -- a figurehead whose presence legitimizes the off-road ability of posher stablemates like the luxurious Range Rover and the Evoque baby SUV.

Yet it has to wash its own face in profit and loss, and the creation of a rugged, capable, go-anywhere vehicle with the flexibility to be a convertible, a pick-up, a troop carrier, an ambulance, a farmer's workhorse or a family car, while complying with global vehicle rules and making money, is not an easy one. It took a slice of pure British luck to create the Land Rover; it may well take another one to replace it.

Nissan Armada, BIG SUV

2016-03-04T03:30:00.001-08:00

Nissan Armada

At the Chicago Auto Show, Nissan pulled the covers off the latest version of its full-size Armada SUV. If the "fleet of warships" name didn't give you enough of a hint, it brings a bit of attitude to the line of full-size family hauling trucks.

See also: Nissan's Titan Warrior is a battle-ready desert racer that can conquer the daily commute

Sporting a body similar to the QX80 from Nissan's luxury arm Infiniti, the Armada makes its linage known with a big, chromed-out Nissan grille. Behind the grille, however, is a new 5.6-liter V8 engine bolted to the fully boxed ladder frame.

Though the same size as the last Armada's V8, this new one — thanks to a lot of new tech — gets 73 more horsepower for a total of 390. All of that is routed to a seven-speed automatic transmission that turns either the rear or all four wheels, depending on whether you buy the 4x4 version or not.
Although powerful, and capable of towing 8,500 pounds, the engine is shockingly quiet — at least, according to Nissan. The Japanese carmaker brags the interior has "library levels" of quietness. More than quiet, it's also luxurious. The 8-inch navigation screen and 13(!) speakers come standard, as well as heated front seats and dual zone climate control.
The new Armada signals that Nissan is keen to make the most of this weird time in automotive history while gas is cheap. Personally, I'm glad to see it. The last model had a dated design and wasn't compelling. However, if this one takes lessons from the QX80, which I consider one of the best big SUVs on the road today (minus the Infiniti silliness), the 2017 Armada should be extremely rewarding.

tips for safely back over truck

2016-02-28T19:59:00.002-08:00

From 2005 to 2010, dump trucks, semi-trailers, trucks, forklifts, garbage trucks and pickup trucks were involved in nearly 200 workplace backover deaths, according to OSHA. Additionally, the Bureau of Labor Statistics recently began collecting specific information on these fatalities and determined that 79 backover deaths occurred on the job in 2011.
A backover incident occurs when a backing vehicle hits a worker who is standing, walking or kneeling behind the vehicle.
The following are examples, recommended by OSHA, of back-over prevention methods:
Spotters: Using a spotter has been proven to keep the safety of workers. However, spotters also are in danger of being hit by a backing vehicle. Several steps can be taken to help keep workers safe.

Before work begins, drivers and spotters should agree on hand signals.
Ensure spotters always have visual contact with the driver when a vehicle is in motion.
Ensure drivers know to stop immediately if they lose sight of a spotter.
Do not give additional duties to spotters.
Do not allow spotters to use mobile devices or personal headphones when working.
Provide high-visibility clothing for spotters, especially when working at night.

Cameras: OSHA states that most vehicles can accommodate a camera to provide drivers with a view to the rear and other blind spots. When equipping vehicles with cameras, it is important to consider the environment operators work in. Some construction sites and mines may require more rugged cameras, and vehicles such as dump trucks may need two or more cameras to monitor blind spots.
Proximity detection systems: These systems use radar and ultrasonic technology to bounce a signal off an object. The system then alerts the vehicle operator with a visual or audio warning that an object is in the way.
Internal traffic control plan: Create a plan to coordinate the flow of moving equipment, workers and vehicles to help minimize the number of times workers and vehicles cross paths. According to OSHA, these plans can significantly reduce and even eliminate the need for vehicles to back up on a jobsite

Safety tips for seat belt and agressive driving

2016-02-28T19:52:00.001-08:00

Keep in mind the following tips to stay safe when driving:

Refrain from using your cell phone.
Put your cell phone on silent or in the glove box to avoid the temptation to use it.
Safely pull over and put your vehicle in “park” to take or make a call.
Change your voice mail message to say you are unavailable when driving, but will return the call once you have reached your destination.

Safety belts are one of the most effective safety devices in your vehicle. Always wear your safety belt when you are driving. Additionally, ensure your passengers are properly buckled before you begin to drive.
Aggressive driving behaviors include speeding, frequent and unnecessary lane changes, tailgating, and running lights. These behaviors create unsafe situations and can lead to road rage.
To avoid aggressive driving:

Keep your emotions in check; don’t take your frustrations out on other drivers.
Plan ahead, allowing enough time for delays.
Focus on your own driving.
Do not tailgate or flash your headlights at another driver.
Use your horn sparingly.

Mercedes-Benz F 015 concept car

2016-02-26T02:46:00.002-08:00

AUTONOMOUS car technology is now so far along that some auto executives have said they expect a completely self-driving car — one that requires no human intervention — to appear in public use within five years.

But what kind of car will we want once no manual driving is necessary? At a defunct naval base here this week, the luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz put on a display of how it sees that future, in 2030 and beyond, with test runs of its F 015 concept car.

With the F 015, Mercedes-Benz isn’t preoccupied with the technology required to make the car drive itself — technology that Elon Musk, the Tesla Motors chief, recently described as a “solved problem.”

Mercedes-Benz has already demonstrated slightly more down-to-earth self-driving prototypes like the S 500 Intelligent Drive concept, which in 2013 autonomously completed a 62-mile route involving complex urban driving situations like traffic lights and roundabouts. The company has also offered a vision of commercial trucks that drive themselves.

The F 015 it demonstrated this week wasn’t even equipped with self-driving technology, like the lasers and computers the car would need to be actually autonomous. It drove passengers on a preprogrammed route, framed by San Francisco in the distance and towering cranes at the Port of Oakland.

Instead, the focus was on the experience of riding in an autonomous car. Mercedes thinks that experience centers on a living space shielded from the distractions and the masses of the outside world.

And yes, it is luxurious car.

The vehicle’s carriage-style design features saloon doors that open wide to reveal an interior that’s more like a living room than the inside of a car. There are no side pillars or center obstructions. The two front seats swivel around completely so the driver and front-seat passenger can face the rear of the car.

The interior features a mix of wood, carpet and touch-enabled panels that blend together into an environment Mercedes-Benz rightly describes as a “cocoon.” When both front seats are turned around, back-seat passengers can activate a touch-screen table that extends into the middle of the cabin and can be used by all passengers.

Still, the effect of being driven by a car is slightly disorienting. Since you can’t see any steering mechanisms, you can’t anticipate which way the car is going to move next, and each speed change comes as a mild surprise. For some, it could well lead to car sickness.

Somehow, though, having a person in the driver’s seat face you while the car is moving is slightly less disturbing than watching someone refuse to put his hands on the wheel.

In this concept vehicle, any passenger could theoretically drive. When in manual mode, the car is operated with pedals and a steering wheel, just like a traditional car. But in autonomous mode, it’s meant to be controlled with touch interfaces — there are few physical buttons — gestures and even eye-tracking.

The touch-screen panels let any passenger request control of the car and then adjust the car’s speed and dynamics (sort of like switching from standard to “sport” mode) by dragging a little image of the car to speed up or slow down.

The screens also display features like points of interest along your route, or location-based information about your friends. The future vehicle has access to your contacts, and if your contacts are sharing their locations, a friend’s face might pop up in the interior display if they’re near where you’re driving.

You can project any image you like onto the screens, and then rotate it using touch. Mercedes designers sketched a vision of a long, boring commute where you could entertain yourself with pictures of your family, a nicer landscape or photos of a recent vacation.

Seems pleasant enough. Ultimately, though, the F 015’s vision is a bit confused.

The vehicle might be perfect as a high-end taxi or a shared vehicle. One of the predictions for a future shaped by self-driving cars is that we will require far fewer of them, because the cars can autonomously pick up passengers, like a giant robotic fleet.

The F 015, if not designed to be a personal car, fits the bill. It’s extremely large, although the sloping roof of the car is low. Our German tour guide, who stood well over 6 feet, was jammed uncomfortably against the ceiling. And many details, like the table in the center and the shareable display panels, seemed designed for transporting multiple people.

But its message of privileged privacy was equally strong. A concept video showed a well-turned-out white male summoning the car from his smartwatch, and then riding alone in it through a mostly deserted but beautiful city. This seems like way too much car for that sort of use.

As for its exterior design concept, it’s actually a bit too futuristic. Many of the technologies Mercedes-Benz imagines inside the F 015 either exist already or aren’t far away. Yet the vehicle itself looks like a set piece from a sci-fi thriller like “I, Robot,” and its extreme design makes it hard to take seriously.

The front and rear panels of the car are lighted with multicolored LEDs — in the front, they glow blue when the car is in autonomous mode, and they are programmed to signal to pedestrians at crosswalks. The car will even speak aloud to a pedestrian to say it’s safe to cross.

And the vehicle is cast in the shiniest of silver aluminum, so shiny it causes physical pain when the sun glances off it. The narrow windows are coated with mottled silver screens, so no one can see inside (privacy is a luxury, after all). Those narrow windows limit the views out of the car, too, though.

Over all, the effect of the exterior design is alien, and gives the impression that Mercedes-Benz might be looking too far ahead. The company has always had a far-reaching technological vision, pioneering technologies like anti-lock brakes, electronic stability controls and the “crumple zone” that protects passengers in accidents.

But with the F 015, the company presents an interesting technology and design showcase that doesn’t feel connected to the real world, which already holds exciting promise for self-driving cars. The company described the car as a vision for “the day after tomorrow.” But what about today?

Tips for safe towing

2016-02-26T01:25:00.001-08:00

Providing roadside vehicle assistance can be fraught with hazards, particularly when towing is involved. To stay safe when performing such tasks, the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety in Hamilton, Ontario, recommends the following:

Carry fuel in a labeled and approved portable container with a tight cap and pouring spout.
Keep gasoline and diesel fuels in separate containers.
When refueling a vehicle, maintain contact between the container and the filler opening.
Tow, rather than push, a vehicle when possible.
Before towing a vehicle, check the type of transmission and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for towing front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive vehicles.
Be sure to use ample lights around the pick-up area. Avoid using flares in case of fuel leaks.
Turn on the flashers of the disabled vehicle.
Outfit service trucks with emergency equipment, warning signal devices, wheel chocks and a properly rated fire extinguisher.
Post the maximum hoisting capacity of the towing unit on the winch mast. Never remove or paint over information on the manufacturer’s data plate.
Do not exceed the towing capacity of the truck, or exceed the limits of the cables, chains or tow bar.
Leave at least three wraps of cable on the winch.
Operate hoist controls away from the wheel drum, travelling cables and sheaves.
Make sure wheel lifts extend far enough to have clearance when turning.
Be aware of electrical power lines when the boom is extended.
After a vehicle is rigged, double-check to make sure all cables are secure before driving.
Ensure locking pins are properly engaged.
Wear sturdy gloves to prevent cuts from cables and sharp objects.
Do not straddle the tow cable.
Do not work under a vehicle suspended by a tow truck. Place jack stands or blocking under the frame.
Wear high-visibility personal protective clothing, particularly in low-light or dark conditions.

New range rover Td6

2016-02-25T23:54:00.001-08:00

Diesel is a dirty word these days thanks to the Volkswagen scandal.

That’s a shame, because the engine technology offers the kind of performance that’s quite appealing, namely serious muscle off the line and significantly improved fuel economy over gasoline-powered engines.

Into this hostile environment, Land Rover brings its first diesel for the American market. Do not judge by the misdeeds of others; the Td6 3-liter turbodiesel motor may be the best way to motivate a Range Rover. Diesel’s stump-pulling power encourages off-roading, perfect when tossing this $103,925 (as tested) luxury vehicle on the Rubicon Trail.

Let’s address the gaseous elephant in the room: emissions. Like other automakers, Land Rover uses a fluid called urea, which mists the exhaust to knock down emissions, turning harmful nitrogen oxide into plain old nitrogen. The urea tank gets filled every 10,000 miles or so. There’s low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation, too, but then I’d be getting all technical on you.

The Td6 packs 254 horsepower and enough soul-satisfying torque to drag Lucifer back to Hades, 440 pound-feet to be precise. Five minutes behind the wheel of this rig is the best publicity diesel could have. Only those outside the car might, and I emphasize might, know this is a diesel. The telltale grumble is replaced with a sonic quality closer to gasoline direct-injection. Inside, the Range Rover is whisper quiet even as it cranks from rest to 60 miles an hour in about seven seconds. Fuel economy is officially rated by the government at 22 miles per gallon in the city, 29 on the highway. I averaged 28 in mixed driving, heavy on urban slogging.

Power is routed through an 8-speed transmission (its controller knob glides strikingly from the console on start-up). Most will leave Land Rover’s Terrain Response four-wheel drive system in auto mode. For severe traversing, dial in the symbol of the terrain you plan to cross (much like sorting socks, only there’s always a match). In everyday use, this deftly maneuvers the concrete canyons it will see most. It’s no Miata, but it’s well controlled for the breed.

Imagine fording 35 inches of water while cocooned by fine leather and woodwork. In an S-Class Mercedes, that would mean something is terribly wrong. Everything seen and touched inside the Range Rover’s cabin has a stout, hefty quality about it, even the floor mats. The Meridian sound system delivers on its lofty sonic promise. I want the carpet in my house.

The rear seats don’t slide fore and aft to max out leg or cargo room. But if passengers complain about the space, feel free to kick them out. They get their own climate control, seat heaters and a great view of the sky. Cargo room is vast enough to haul furniture to the summer place. The air suspension drops the back for easier loading.

Land Rovers have a four-year, 50,000-mile warranty for those concerned about reliability. To be straight-up honest, my practical Midwest upbringing once saw the luxurious appointments of a Range Rover to be a little much. Who pushes a vehicle that begins at $85,945 through knee-deep mud on the way to boulder-strewn paths? I now find the amalgamation of opera house refinement and mountain goat ability perversely appealing.

The $1,500 premium for the diesel engine is a wise investment, less for the fuel economy than its driving pleasure. For the wealthy, a Range Rover can be a money saver, combining luxury car and off-roader into one purchase. S.U.V., in this case, stands for supremely upscale vehicle.

VOLVO S 60 Cross Country

2016-02-24T00:04:00.000-08:00

VOLVO S 60

VOLVO’S Cross Country line has been a hit that automakers dream of. Raising the height, adding all-wheel drive and dressing it in Fjallraven-like cladding gave their wagons the likability of s’mores.

Now the Cross Country is available as a sedan. The S60 Cross Country isn’t a new concept. Subaru killed its sedan version of the Outback years ago and, generally, automakers abandon a segment for a reason. Volvo hedges its bet by limiting production to 500 copies, all in Osmium Grey paint so owners will be uniquely following the same path.

Moving away from the usual crossover box appears to be the next direction for crossovers. BMW started it with the X6; Mercedes is soon to follow. In my week with Volvo’s curiosity, it attracted as many compliments as it did mud puddles.

VOLVO S 60

Think twice about skipping the Cross Country wagon. My trunk measurement metric with bath tissue from a wholesaler might draw chuckles, but it revealed a serious shortcoming. The S60 stops at three bundles of tissue paper, whereas the V60 wagon takes in six. Uff da, as the Scandinavians say.

Strengths? It sprints from rest to 60 in under seven seconds. The turbocharged 2.5-liter 5-cylinder engine (yes, five) packs 250 horses and 266 pound-feet of torque on standard-grade gas with the turbo “overboosting” for the first 10 seconds when floored. Power is divided among all four wheels (more accurately, only those with grip). The transmission has 6 speeds in its toolbox.

Raised by 2.6 inches, the Cross Country doesn’t conquer corners like standard S60s. Between supremely comfortable seats and a compliant ride, it’s a terrific car for, dare I say, cross-country driving.

The sedan is E.P.A.-rated at 20 city and 28 highway; my heavy right foot wrung 22 miles per gallon out of it. Since it’s a Volvo, there are too many safety features to cover, but know that the City Safety system automatically brakes for cars and pedestrians, and in some cases bicyclists (a test nobody volunteered for).

I’ve successfully driven the V60 Cross Country wagons on fairly rough terrain. It’s no Jeep Wrangler, but moderate snow, deeply rutted forest service roads and muddy stretches are a piece of cake. Most owners will never tax the all-wheel-drive system. Ever.

The interior is pleasant with substantial metal trim seemingly forged by Thor’s hammer. Audi and Mercedes may tailor a more impressive cabin, but they don’t offer a raised-up sedan. The gauge cluster is configurable three different ways. Pockets in the front of the seat cushion are brilliant.

If only Volvo’s new Sensus user interface could be wedged into the S60. A small multifunction knob does the heavy lifting, and voice commands aren’t much better. A bright note: Pictographic climate controls are top shelf.

Stretching out in the back seat is not an option in the Cross Country, though average-size adults will find foot and legroom fine. Cushions are contoured, supportive and heated. It has belts for three, but keep it to two to keep the peace.

Prices start at $44,640; as tested, it’s $47,500. The S60 is available in front- and all-wheel-drive versions without Cross Country treatment. But, for those who insist on traversing tougher terrain in a four-door, Volvo raises to new heights the ability to get a sedan filthy

The BMW X5 xDrive40e, a Future Hybrid

2016-02-23T06:15:00.000-08:00

BMW X5

INEXPENSIVE gasoline has fueled sales of the crossovers and sport utility vehicles that Americans love. That’s good for the automakers’ bottom line, but it also presents a challenge as fuel economy standards get stricter.

What’s a company to do? Build something like the BMW X5 xDrive40e, a plug-in hybrid.

It would appear that this technology is the way to go for the foreseeable future, since batteries that take cars hundreds of miles are expensive (looking at you, Tesla) and there is no refueling infrastructure yet in place for cars using hydrogen fuel cell technology.

With a pure battery range of 14 miles, the 40e is no Volt. It charges in three hours on 220-volt current, seven hours on 110. It can reach 75 miles an hour on battery power alone; the gas engine assists from there. It does not have to be charged up to operate, but that defeats the purpose, right?

BMW’s eDrive consists of a turbocharged 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine assisted by a 111-horsepower alternating-current electric motor tucked into the 8-speed transmission housing.

In total, there are 308 horses and a healthy 332 pound-feet of torque. The lithium-ion battery pack is beneath the cargo floor where in the X5 35i, the 40e’s fully fossil-fuel sibling, the third row of seats would live. The 40e is strictly a five-seat affair.

There are three drive modes: Max, Save and Auto. Max provides pure electric power; Save forces gas operation and even charges the battery a bit. Most owners will use Auto, in which the 40e behaves much like any hybrid. The difference is that the smooth electric-to-gas transition happens at higher speeds, up to 45 miles an hour.

Impressively, the 40e drives much like a standard 35i.

The brake pedal feels a touch disconnected, common with hybrids. From inside the cabin, the quiet 4-cylinder engine seems as if it’s in the next county.

Quicker than a Prius, the 40e bolts from zero to 60 miles an hour in 6.5 seconds with a standard all-wheel-drive system that’s always active. It drives well, though at 5,220 pounds, it’s around 430 pounds heavier than the 35i, and that mass is felt. The hippopotamus ballerinas from “Fantasia” come to mind. It’s an S.U.V., not an M3.

Fuel economy depends on how it’s driven and how frequently it’s charged. If you understand the government rating of 56 miles per gallon equivalent, you’re smarter than average. I saw everything from 57 m.p.g. (driving carefully in urban conditions) to 21 m.p.g. with a hard foot and a spent battery. My total average for the week was 31 when I plugged it in nightly.

Whatever the fuel economy, occupants will enjoy the interior. Soothing accent lighting bathes the entire cabin. Seats are bolstered for a wide range of posteriors. The 40e is most efficient when a destination is set on the navigation system (by drawing letters and numbers on the iDrive function knob) since the eDrive takes into consideration the topography of the route. Be aware that the drivetrain turns off if you open the front door. It’s a safety feature.

In the rear, a low-profile drive shaft tunnel keeps the back seat spacious. Two adults can stretch out; three smaller passengers should be comfortable. The seats split 40-20-40. The battery pack eliminates the cargo area available in the 35i without the back seat option, but the trunk space remains the same size.

Today’s cheap gas makes it tough to break even financially. The car starts at $63,095 (the version I tested was $71,995) and the eDrive hybrid system is $5,000 more. A $4,668 federal tax credit nearly covers that bill, but don’t forget the charger installation. Still, if plug-in hybrids are the future of efficiency, we could all do a lot worse than drive something as well engineered as the X5.

Lexus change image with the RC F

2016-02-23T06:08:00.000-08:00

lexus

When talk turns to high performance in cars, Lexus seldom springs to mind. Yes, it has built the passionate IS F sedan. Who wouldn’t want an LFA supercar? Still, Lexus hasn’t attracted the kind of attention that BMW M, Cadillac V and Mercedes AMG cars have.

Fortunately for everyone’s inner Speed Racer, Toyota President Akio Toyoda is demanding more passion from his luxury division. And lo, the engineers have delivered the RC F. With plenty of oomph from its 5-liter V8 engine, rear-wheel drive, all wrapped in a two-door coupe, the RC F ventures into territory defined by the Camaro SS and Mustang GT. To find 467 horsepower and 389 pound-feet of torque throbbing under the aluminum hood of a Lexus is heartening.

There is a certain truth in advertising to the car: RC stands for radical coupe. Lines dodge and slice over the unique fascias and aluminum fenders. It will not be mistaken for your aunt’s ES 350.

lexus

Cars often share an architecture; RC is hewn from three of them. The front structure springs from the GS, the midfloor pan is courtesy of the IS convertible, and the rear is from the IS sedan. The F model adds chassis bracing, welds and adhesives for structural stoutness.

Lexus claims a 4.4-second sprint from 0 to 60. In Sport Plus drive mode, a resonator and speaker usher in more mechanical symphonics. Even in Eco mode, there is more road noise and less isolation from the pavement than expected from Lexus. Road warriors will appreciate the F’s communicative electric power steering but may lament the lack of a manual gearbox. An 8-speed automatic is impressive — and mandatory.

RC F’s performance is daydream fodder. Reality’s cold water reminds drivers that it’s tough to employ the full heroic power and handling of cars in this class on public roads (safely, anyway). On a track, the RC F has a disadvantage. Weighing 258 pounds more than the Cadillac ATS-V and 373 pounds more than the BMW M4, the Lexus is a sumo in Spanx. No, the V8 does not make up for the heft; the turbo sixes in the Cadillac and BMW best the RC F’s torque. And subjectively, those competitors have more of that hard-to-quantify driving magic in their bones.

The cockpit is intimate, though some will call it snug. It was also inky black in the tested car, even trimmed with contrasting stitching and carbon fiber. Deeply bolstered seats embrace a wide range of drivers. The upholstery is placed into a mold and then filled with foam for a perfect finish.

Lexus has replaced its odd user interface controller with a trackpad, but I’m still not a fan. On the plus side, modern technology includes blind spot warning and an auto-braking system.

Two 5-foot-9 humans will find the back-seat space a custom fit. Cross-country treks are ill advised. The back seat is outfitted as if Lexus expected to people to ride there regularly, with sculpted chairs that support as securely as those in front. The trunk is a good size, too. There are no folding seat backs or spare tire, but there’s a ski pass-though.

The letter F may remind some of us of our high school grades, but here it stands for Fuji Speedway, where Toyota does much of its high performance testing. RC is meant to lift Lexus from its safe beige reputation. In both power and design, RC F is anything but dull.

Maserati enters SUV market

2016-02-23T05:23:00.000-08:00

Maserati Lavente SUV.

The Maserati Lavente SUV.

Maserati, which has represented the finest in Italian sports and performance cars for decades, is finally joining the SUV race.
The brand has unveiled the first official images of the Levante, a luxury SUV it plans to start selling this summer. While Maserati has not set a price, analysts are speculating the base model will start at more than $80,000.
"I believe the Levante will be a success," said Eric Lyman, analyst for TrueCar. "From a styling standpoint it is different enough to stand out and will get attention."
Standing out in the luxury SUV market is becoming tougher with more automakers rolling out extremely high-end models. Last year, there were 12 different luxury SUV models with an average transaction price of at least $75,000 according to TrueCar. That's double the number of SUVs selling at that price just five years ago.

From Cadillac to Mercedes-Benz to Lexus, the major luxury brands are pushing the upper end of the SUV market. Late last year, Tesla jumped in with the Model X, where the first signature editions started at $132,000.
Whether the SUV has a price well over $100,000 or closer to $75,000, there is no shortage of demand for these upscale vehicles. In 2015, Americans bought almost 100,000 SUVs with an average transaction price of at least $75,000 according to TrueCar analysis. That's an increase of 279 percent from 2011.
"The luxury SUV market is red hot and it's not slowing down," said Lyman. "There's no compromise for buyers. They want luxury and they want SUVs."
But is $75,000, which is more than double the average price paid for a vehicle in the U.S., a sum so great it could eventually limit sales.

"Remember, the lease penetration rate (percentage of models leased) for luxury SUVs is 50 percent, so the monthly payment is attainable for those who can afford it," said Lyman.
The Levante is the first in a series of ultra luxury SUVs coming from the most elite auto brands. Over the course of the next few years Bentley, Lamborghini and even Rolls-Royce will start selling SUV's. When those models roll into showrooms, the price of each is expected to be well over $100,000 and in some cases they could easily top $200,000.
But as wealthy buyers wait for those SUVs, the Levante will be in Maserati showrooms giving them another option when it comes to spending at least $75,000. Lyman thinks Maserati will have an advantage.
"The Levante is first to market compared to other exotic luxury brands so buyers looking at Ferrari, Lamborghini or Bentley who decide they want a luxury SUV will see what Maserati is offering," he said. "There is a lot of opportunity."

Nissan's New Truck Ad Calls Out Chevy, Ford, Dodge

2016-02-23T04:12:00.000-08:00

As Nissan seeks a bigger foothold in the sizzling pickup truck market, the Japanese automaker is making an unusual call-out to more dominant U.S. brands. But whether or not the first TV ad for the all-new Titan XD comes off as a tribute to Chevy, Ford and Dodge -- or a backhanded compliment -- will be left to viewers to decide.

The campaign broke Monday night during the College Football Playoff National Championship game on ESPN. The 90-second ad, called "Shoulders of Giants," begins with an emotional tone, showing children idolizing parents, firefighters, astronauts and athletes. Then, the kicker: "To those who go before us -- Chevy, Ford, Dodge. Thank you. We see the way forward."

The agency is TBWAChiatDay.

At first glance the ad might appear to be taking a subtle shot at the competition. After all, the Chevy, Ford and Dodge trucks shown are all old and a bit dusty. Meanwhile, Nissan's Titan XD appears at the end of the ad bright and shiny, barreling out of a garage into a scenic mountain range.

But Nissan executives said the ad is meant to honor their more established foes, rather than bash them, and truck enthusiasts who watch the ad closely will get that. "We know and understand in the truck world that you have to show respect to earn respect of a typical truck buyer," said Fred Diaz, Nissan North America's division VP and general manager for trucks and light commercial vehicles. "And we wanted to to do that in a very true and authentic way without it at all coming across that we are giving a backhanded compliment to our competitors."

The older trucks in the ad were picked because "those trucks are actually icons in truck culture, so each one of them represents an evolution for trucks," said Jeremy Tucker, Nissan North America's VP of marketing communications and media.

The competing trucks shown include the 1972 Chevy C10, which was known for bridging the gap between a work truck and a daily driving vehicle, Nissan executives said. Also shown is a 1985 Dodge truck that was the first truck with a Cummins diesel engine (the Titan XD uses a Cummins 5.0L V8 Turbo Diesel); and a 1995 Ford F-150 that was co-branded with Eddie Bauer and a had a luxury interior, Nissan executives said.

"Each of these trucks are worthy of genuine recognition. And from a Nissan perspective, we look forward to being included among them in the future," Mr. Tucker said.

If Nissan's truck is mentioned in the same conversation as Chevy, Ford and Dodge, that would be a victory, considering the stranglehold the three brands have on the market. The Ford F series led all truck sales in 2015 with 780,354 vehicles, followed by Chevrolet Silverado (600,544) and Dodge's Ram pickup (451,116), according to Ad Age affiliate Automotive News.

Nissan's Titan XD aims to hit a sweet spot in the truck market with a truck that is big, but not too big. In an interview with Automotive News late last year, IHS Automotive senior analyst Stephanie Brinley described it as a "tweener" strategy: "There are people every year who buy light-duty pickups and wish they had gotten a bigger truck," Brinley said. "And people who buy medium-duty pickups and wish they had gotten something smaller. Nissan estimates there about 150,000 of those buyers a year. If they could capture half of them, they'll be doing great."

"We've positioned this truck with the refinement of a light-duty but the capability of a heavy-duty, which gives you the best of both worlds," Mr. Diaz told Ad Age. Asked about sales goals, he said Nissan does not have a "false premise that we are going to come in here and overtake the big three domestic [brands] overnight." Rather, Nissan wants to make a statement that "we are here to compete and we have a truck that will compete," he said.

Marketing will play up the truck's U.S. roots, calling it the "American Titan." That is a nod to the fact that it was planned in Tennessee (where Nissan North America is based), designed in California, engineered in Michigan, tested in Arizona and assembled in Mississippi, according to Nissan.

The campaign's debut during the National Championship game continues Nissan's marketing strategy of targeting big sports and cultural events. Last year's championship game between Ohio State and Oregon drew more than 33 million viewers.

This year's contest between Clemson and Alabama is not as interregional, featuring two teams from the South. But that plays right into Nissan's favor, Mr. Tucker suggested. "If you think about where our consumers are," he said, "the South definitely is truck country."

Toyota Innova Crysta

2016-02-23T04:01:00.001-08:00

toyota innova

The India-spec Innova was recently displayed at the 2016 Auto Expo. Called the Innova Crysta, this is arguably the most awaited launch of the year, and the big MPV is all set to continue its reign in a more spacious, more powerful, more luxurious and more stylish avatar.

The differences between the current Innova and the new one are immediately apparent and the styling is a huge step up from the current model. The fascia is clearly influenced by recent models like the Toyota Corolla Altis and the new Camry. Road presence is enhanced by the new, large hexagonal grille with two wide chrome slats on the top that flow into the headlamps. The side still retains a van-like shape, but Toyota has now livened that up with tweaks such as the shape of the glass area, which kinks upwards sharply after the rear doors.

The interiors have received a huge upgrade, replete with dual-tone upholstery, generous amounts of faux-aluminium trim and woodgrain on some variants. Higher trims will receive leather upholstery and captain’s chairs too. Other features that make this a more upmarket offering are a dual-zone climate control, LED mood lighting and a cooled glovebox. All variants will receive a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen system, though features such as navigation, voice command recognition, Bluetooth telephony and SD card support will likely only come on top trims.

Toyota innova

Where it really gets interesting is in the powertrain department. The new Innova will receive a 45bhp bump in power, owing to an all-new 147bhp, 2.4-litre GD series engine that replaces the current 102bhp, 2.5-litre KD series unit. This will be offered with a five-speed manual gearbox, but there will also be an Innova Crysta variant with a six-speed automatic gearbox. This one, however, will use another all-new diesel engine - a 2.8-litre GD-series motor with an as-yet-unspecified power output. And, to make matters even more interesting, Toyota is seriously looking at bringing in a petrol variant in the light of the recent diesel scandal in New Delhi. This car will use the 2.7-litre, four-cylinder VVT-i petrol motor from the Toyota Prado SUV sold in Indonesia.

BMW with a concept car, no mirrors.

2016-02-23T03:49:00.001-08:00

The rear-view and side-view mirrors in the i8 are replaced by three cameras and a special screen to show drivers what's behind and around their cars.

The i8 concept car was unveiled during the CES in Las Vegas.

Two of the cameras are on the exterior of the car where side mirrors are normally located. But the struts that hold the cameras are significantly slimmer than existing designs.

http://truckncar.blogspot.com/ ova bmw i8 concept car side view camera

The third camera is placed inside of the rear window. The car's software stitches all of the video feeds together for a very wide view of the road.

A high-resolution video is streamed to a screen where the rear-view mirror would be.

"Dangerous blind spots have been consigned to the past," BMW says about this technology. "The image of the traffic behind the car covers a greater viewing angle than could be observed using the interior and exterior mirrors. No adjustment of the cameras is necessary."

The car's software system will also provide warning signals on the screen if it senses dangerous obstacles.

Trimming the side mirrors provide more than just improved safety, BMW says. The new design will reduce wind noise because they are "optimized aerodynamically and aeroacoustically."

The loss of bulky side-view mirrors should also help improve gas mileage, which automakers are always looking to do in order to meet tougher fuel mileage rules.

The main catch to BMW's idea? The car would be illegal to drive in the United States right now. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration rules require rear-view mirrors.

GM has created a similar feature for its new Cadillac CT6. But the CT6 has a standard rearview mirror that can also stream high-resolution video from a camera mounted on the back of the vehicle.

The Chevy Bolt isn't a concept car anymore.

2016-02-23T03:37:00.000-08:00

General Motors unveiled the 2017 production model of its new all-electric Chevy Bolt on Wednesday at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

The Bolt is meant to be an affordable long-range electric vehicle, and the company's follow up to the acclaimed Chevy Volt.

The car was introduced as a concept in January 2015, and the company is set to start production by the end of this year.

The 2017 Bolt will come with bells and whistles including a mobile app that will "enable car sharing" and "advanced GPS routing," GM (GM) CEO Mary Barra said in a statement Wednesday.

Drivers are also going to be able to use the app to predict their driving range based on weather, driving habits and even how many hills the car will climb along its route, the company said.

When the concept car was unveiled last year, Barra called the car a "game changer." It's supposed to take a 200 mile trip without recharging.

The latest Volt could model averages about 53 miles on a single charge. Unlike the Volt, the Bolt will not have a gas engine to give it extra range.

It also has an expected sticker price of $30,000 after tax incentives, making it cheaper than electric cars with comparable range.

Take Tesla's (TSLA) Model S, which can go about 230 miles in a single charge, but costs about $70,000.

Tesla has been working on a less expensive version, the Model 3. It's expected to be hit the market sometime in 2017.

Chevy may beat mid-priced plug-in car market, but Tesla on Wednesday welcomed the Bolt.

"Commitments from traditional car makers to build electric vehicles advance Tesla's mission to accelerate the advent of sustainable transportation," Tesla said in a statement. "We hope to see all those additional zero-emission vehicles on the road."

Honda Civic Door Handle

2012-04-07T02:58:00.000-07:00

1996-2000 Honda Civic Door Handle Replacement Honda Door Handle H462102

Location: Front, Driver Side, Exterior
Material: Plastic
Type: Exterior
Color/Finish: Smooth shiny black
Door Lock: With keyhole

This product fits the following Honda Civic submodels
1998-2000: GX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: CX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: DX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: EX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: HX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: LX; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1996-2000: Si; 4 Cyl 1.6L;
1999-1999: Value Package; 4 Cyl 1.6L;

Ford Crown Victoria Bumper

2012-04-07T02:50:00.002-07:00

1998-2005 Ford Crown Victoria Bumper Cover Replacement Ford Bumper Cover F010327P

For affordable bumper cover, purchase Replacement Bumper Cover! This Replacement Bumper Cover is readily made not just to add stylish look but to protect your bumpers from dents and scratches. It is manufactured from tough plastic material to ensure that it matches OE standards and reliability.

Notes:

With holes for air and license plate
Replaces OE number 3W7Z17D957CA
Does not include apron

This product fits the following Ford Crown Victoria submodels

2005-2005: Special Edition; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
2004-2005: LX Sport; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
1998-2005: Base; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
1998-2005: LX; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
1998-2005: Police Interceptor; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
1998-2005: S; 8 Cyl 4.6L;
2002-2003: LWB; 8 Cyl 4.6L;

Toyota Camry Bumper Cover

2012-04-07T02:35:00.000-07:00

2007-2011 Toyota Camry Bumper Cover Replacement Toyota Bumper Cover ARBT760104P

For affordable bumper cover, purchase Replacement Bumper Cover! This Replacement Bumper Cover is readily made not just to add stylish look but to protect your bumpers from dents and scratches. It is manufactured from tough plastic material to ensure that it matches OE standards and reliability.

Location: Rear
Material: Plastic
Color/Finish: Primered

This product fits the following Toyota Camry submodels

2007-2011: Hybrid; 4 Cyl 2.4L;

Honda Jazz 5-dr hatch range

2012-02-06T09:01:00.001-08:00

HONDA has righted almost all of the old Jazz wrongs with the second-generation version, out now in three models kicking off from $15,990.

Besides boasting an all-new body and interior, many of the mechanical elements have been overhauled, including the steering and suspension for a marked improvement in driveability and ride comfort.

But the Jazz still looks, feels and fits like the little Honda that reset class benchmarks back in 2002, and the latest iteration – apart from the odd minor quibble – appears set to do the same again in 2009.

Model release date: August 2008

HONDA turned the light-car market on its ear with the first-generation Jazz.

Relocating the fuel tank from under the rear seat to the car’s centre liberated packaging space, making the little Japanese runabout a sort of automotive Tardis.

Engine choices were a SOHC 61kW/119Nm 1.3-litre or 81kW/143Nm 1.5-litre four, with five-speed manual or industry-leading CVT auto.

Three five-door hatchback models were offered – GLi, VTi and VTi-S, with a minor facelift and specification upgrade arriving in late 2004.

Production moved from Japan to Thailand two years later.

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The Honda CR-V

2011-11-02T01:29:00.000-07:00

One of the most popular and reliable car manufacturers in the automotive industry right now is Honda. They are a popular Japanese car maker that has automotive plants all over the globe, including the US. One of Honda's most famous models is the Civic. However, Honda has also extended into the production of the sport-utility vehicle or SUV. At present, Honda's premiere SUV is the CR-V. The CR-V was originally built as a compact station wagon, but as the years have gone by, this vehicle has gradually transformed into a crossover and is currently sold to car finders in markets throughout the globe.

Brief History of the CR-V

The Honda CR-V was introduced to the automotive market in 1995. The CR-V was originally intended to be a niche vehicle. That was due in part because Honda was hesitant in marketing this model on a large scale. Honda was uncertain if the CR-V would be capable of taking the place of the Honda Passport as an entry-level SUV in the U.S.

Honda's worries were put to rest after entering the CR-V in the 1996 Chicago Auto Show. Car buyers and enthusiasts alike had paid close attention to the CR-V, which was thought to be a good indication of potential sales. In addition to this, Honda also began taking note of the successes Toyota's RAV4 had achieved when it was released to the market.

Due to these factors, the CR-V was released in the US in 1997, alongside other SUVs, such as the Subaru Forrester. Since then, the CR-V has started building its reputation as an in-demand and reliable SUV. As of present, Honda is about to release their fourth generation Honda CR-V, which has many new exciting features that are being offered.

What does "CR-V" means?

With all its success and popularity, there is still a question that remains uncertain about the Honda CR-V. What does "CR-V" mean? All through the years, Honda has yet to come up with a concrete answer as to what CR-V stands for. In fact there are a lot of interpretations as to what it stands for.

Many car experts have researched the meaning of CR-V. One of the possible answers could be "Civic Recreation Vehicle." This assumption was based on the notion that the CR-V was built on the Civic platform. Many observers believe that this vehicle was originally produced as an extension of the Civic line to satisfy the needs of Honda car finders who are after Honda-made SUVs. On the other hand, several sales literature's in the UK consider the CR-Vs acronym to stand for "Compact Recreational Vehicle", while the official fact book of Honda Japan CR-V states that it is an acronym for "Comfortable Runabout Vehicle".

Despite the uncertainties connected to its name, the Honda CR-V still enjoys significant increases in demand, as well as new vehicle upgrades that improve its capability of being a great SUV.

4 Generations of Honda CR-Vs

As mentioned earlier, the CR-V is one of Honda's longest running models. To trace its history, here is a brief summary of the Honda CR-V's existence.

1. 1st Generation (1995-2001)

The first generation of CR-Vs were introduced in 1995 and production continued until 2001. In early production, the CR-V had only one trim and was powered by a 2.0L straight-4 B20B. That engine was capable of producing a maximum power output of 128 horsepower and 133 lb.-ft. of torque. Honda also used a uni-body chassis when they created their 4-wheel double-wishbone suspension. The interior is quite spacious and the rear seats can be folded to accommodate larger cargoes.

The external aspects of the first generation CR-Vs in the US was dominated by plastics, particularly in its rear and front bumpers, as well as the right and left fenders. After a few years, a new trim was offered for the CR-V and thus the EX trim was introduced. Honda had added some features to the EX trim which was not found on the LX trim. Other features included the anti-lock braking system. In this particular period, buyers were given two drive train options, front-wheel drive and the Real Time 4WD.

Honda has received a lot of criticism particularly on the CR-Vs lack of power to carry its 3,200 lbs. of weight. Due to this, Honda has used the 2.0L B20Z engine with a maximum power output of about 146 horsepower at 6200 rpm and up to 143 lb.-ft. of torque at 4500 rpm as a replacement. With this engine, the recorded fuel economy ratings were 23 miles per gallon in the city and 28 miles per gallon on the highway. Despite the change in engine and increased power, the price of the CR-V remained the same, which encouraged more car buyers to purchase this SUV.

In terms of safety, the 1995-2001 CR-V models have only obtained marginal ratings from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). This is because the results of the crash tests conducted by the IIHS revealed that there is a great possibility for the driver and other car occupants to incur left leg injuries. The agency has also noticed that the dummies used, went through the airbags during the collision and this could possibly cause minor concussions. It only earned a good rating in the vehicle's capability to provide chest protection to its occupants. Due to these not so impressive findings, Honda was encouraged to improve the safety features of future CR-Vs.

2. 2nd Generation (2002-2006)

Based on the negative feedback the first generation CR-V received, Honda introduced the fully refreshed version of the CR-V in 2002. These vehicles were considered as the second generation CR-Vs. These models were based on the platform used by the seventh generation Civic and the former engine was replaced by the K24A1 engine. The new engine produces 160 horsepower and 162 lb.-ft. of torque. Despite the increase in power, this model of the CRV has retained its fuel economy. This was made possible by using the i-VTEC system.

After these improvements, the CR-V was only subjected to minor changes up to 2004. The CR-V has once again received a major face lift in 2005 and the SE trim was added to the two existing trims. The improvements implemented were focused on the vehicle's wheel size, taillights and headlights, as well as other external changes. There were also revisions made to the CR-V's interior in 2005. That included the mounting of audio controls on the vehicle's steering wheel, the stereo was changed, and the rear seat headrests were revised to improve the driver's view of the rear.

In terms of safety, the second generation CR-Vs sold in the US were equipped with front-seat mounted airbags and side curtain airbags with rollover sensors to protect all of the occupants. Honda had also installed ABS, Traction Control, Vehicle Stability Assist, and the Electronic brake force distribution systems.

3. 3rd Generation (2007-2011)

The third generation CR-V was introduced in 2007. This CR-V model is shorter, lower, and wider, compared to the previous models. The reduction in length was achieved by removing the CR-V's spare tire from the rear and was transferred underneath the rear cargo area. The moving of the spare tire had also reduced the vehicle's center of gravity.

Honda had also changed the engine used on the third generation CR-Vs. The earlier model engine was removed and the 2.0L 4-cylinder version was used. This engine produces 166 horsepower and 161 lb.-ft. of torque which is stronger compared to the previous maximum power output. Due to this engine revision, the fuel economy ratings of the CR-V have declined to 20 miles per gallon in the city and 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

For CR-Vs sold in the US, Honda had dropped the manual transmission in exchange for the automatic. With this transmission, the CR-V has obtained better shifting and more manageable handling.

Due to these improvements, the Honda CR-V became one of the best-selling SUVs in the US in 2007. In fact, the CR-V has beaten some of its closest competitors, such as the Toyota RAV4, Ford Escape, and Chevrolet Tahoe. It even reached the point that the CR-V became the number one selling vehicle in the US by beating the Ford Explorer in terms of the number of demands. The Ford Explorer has been the best-selling SUV in the US since 1991 only to be beaten by the CR-V in 2007.

4. 4th Generation (2012)

The fourth generation CR-V will be released in the US during the later part of this year. Honda has even released a photo of the upcoming model to tease car buyers. In its newest model, the CR-V has made significant changes to its exterior design. The cars curves and lines were further improved to give the vehicle an upscale and tougher look. This version is also expected to be more fuel-efficient compared to the previous models.

Tips for Buying Cheap Mud Tires

2011-11-02T01:27:00.000-07:00

You can get cheap mud tires from different places. This wonderful alternative is for people on a slim budget. It is a nice idea for beginners in mud sports as compared to purchasing the most expensive ones which professionals go for.

You ought to be aware of the different benefits and features of shopping for these accessories. If you are thinking of buying these products then you can find special tires made for riding in off road places or areas with much mud. Most of these tires come outfitted with qualities that are unique like deep treads as well as larger spacing between the lugs for footing that is enhanced as you move on the surfaces covered by mud.

Usually, mud tires are wider than every weather tires because their weight are evenly dispersed which aids the vehicle not to sink very deep in the mud, thereby getting stuck. The tires are designed to be big, open as well as wide in order to prevent mud accumulating on the tires. The tires could be set on several cars but they are usually connected with off road cars and trucks.

When you go shopping for tires, always bear in mind that there are several types of tires suitable for off road use. Normally this depends on the kind of vehicle you use since a few of them come fitted with them. Search for a shop that primarily stock mud tires so you could choose different varieties as well compare the various costs for the mud tires.

If you decide to buy second-hand mud tires, ensure that you get the correct size that would fit the vehicle. It is a great idea to do a check on the second-hand mud tires for repairs and to see if they have done it well, furthermore if the treads has faults. Make sure that wears and tears are not too much. The price ranges of these second-hands are a few dollars though it highly depends on the quality of the tire.

You can find various brands of mud tires in the market. Choose mud tires that have received encouraging reviews from buyers seeing that these would be the ideal and they would serve the purpose anticipated. It is advisable to get counsel from friends and family who might have used the products before. They would be in the best position to offer their best advice.

You can find the most inexpensive ones by going to a local retail store when it offers off sales. Many retail stores usually operate sales in different times during the year therefore, it is wise to take benefit of this season. It is necessary you select shops that are recognized and get advice from the tire specialist in order to choose a quality tire and at a cheap price.

It is best that you do your search when finding cheap mud tires. It is also advisable to find local tire shops and discount tire stores so you can compare prices. Surfing the internet in order to check prices is a wise idea since many of these store do not pay for the premises. Therefore, make sure to shop around before choosing the tires.

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Tips For Driving Trucks Safely

2011-11-02T01:26:00.001-07:00

In the classification of commercial motor vehicles (CMV's), trucks range from very large oversized trucks all the way down to small straight trucks. In order to drive these CMV's, people in the US must have a commercial driver's license (CDL) to drive trucks over a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating.

Components of a commercial driver's license test consist of both a skills test and a general knowledge test. The driver must show skills in making turns, backing up, stopping, driving on both highway and city roads, or weaing through a serpentine course. Commercial drivers licenses are available in Classes A, B, and C, and only Class A holders can operate the large trucks.

The first safety tip for truck drivers is to establish a cushion of space in all dimensions. Make sure to keep tabs on the heights above the truck (e.g. overpasses) along with road surfaces (e.g. road hazards, pot holes, or speed bumps). In addition, ensuring adequate forward and rear space for necessary quick stopping along with adequate turning radiuses will increase safety as well.

Researching travel conditions prior to a trip (such as weather and traffic) will lead to safer driving decisions. This may allow one to avoid inclement weather and a potential accident. Also, increased traffic may lead to impatient drivers and bad decisions which can cause an accident putting one's truck safety at risk.

Another part of planning is pre-trip inspections. Routinely having maintenance performed will prevent potential problems with tires, axles, fluids, etc.

Driving at safe speeds can prevent fatalities. After all, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported speeding as the #1 factor in fatal large truck crashes in 2009. It always takes longer to brake a large truck than a car, so the safe driving speed and cushion is extremely important.

If safe speeds are stuck with, the truck's tires can maintain sufficient traction during a necessary quick slow down. Driving at night, on hilly or mountainous areas, on curving roads, or whenever rain is falling can make it difficult to stop safely. Total stopping distance is equal to the sum of perception distance, reaction distance, brake lag distance, and effective braking distance. Adverse weather will lengthen the total stopping distance.

Contrary to a typical car driver, those in a truck need to look much farther down the road since it takes so much longer for a truck to stop effectively. It is also not a great idea to rely blindly on GPS routes when it comes to clearance under bridges and overpasses. Just because the GPS says it is the shortest route, the top of your truck may not be so happy when it is gone.

When backing up, remember a truck is not a car. There are significant blind spots with a truck while backing up so the acronym G.O.A.L. is important - Get Out And Look. Having plenty of mirrors on a truck on each side can decrease the size of any blind spots. This may mean 3 to 5 on each side.