tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34608291335491925502024-09-01T09:08:28.892-07:00any thing about cars worldmasr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.comBlogger238125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-31207109156780657072012-09-12T21:41:00.000-07:002012-09-12T21:41:00.066-07:00 <STRONG readability="2">2013 BMW 760Li: V-12 25 Years Anniversary Edition <P>Special Limited Edition Flagship Honors 25 Years of V-12 Tradition</STRONG></P><P>Woodcliff Lake, NJ – September 7, 2012 ...Today, BMW launches a very special limited edition 25th Anniversary Edition 760Li V-12 reflecting a rich tradition of V-12 engines that began back in 1987 with the then groundbreaking BMW 750iL when BMW engineers crafted the most Ultimate Driving Machine of its day with the introduction of its first automotive V-12 engine. Only 15 of these very limited edition models will be available to US customers on a special order basis only for BMW Center delivery in early 2013 at a price of $159,695 including destination and handling.</P><P>The "V-12 25 Years Edition" BMW 760Li features BMW Individual Champagne Full Merino Leather and, exclusively for this model, black piping. The black floor mats and rear footrests are also complimented by contrasting piping in Champagne. The door sills, headrests and iDrive controllers are all specially badged with "V-12 25 Years Edition". Also included with this special edition flagship model are:</P><P>- Rear Seat Entertainment with iDrive control<BR>- 20' Individual wheel style 301 with performance tires<BR>- Alcantara headliner in champagne (sides of headliner in black)<BR>- A/B/C pillars in black leather<BR>- Rear parcel shelf in Anthracite Alcantara<BR>- BMW Individual Piano Black Wood trim<BR>- Piano black wood inlay in steering wheel<BR>- Shadowline exterior trim</P><P>A full range of exterior colors is available for this limited edition as well as additional options, making it possible to craft a truly unique automobile.</P><P>The 760Li, with its 6.0-liter Twin Turbo V12, remains the pinnacle in the BMW 7 Series line up boasting 535 horsepower, 550 lb. ft of torque catapulting the big Sports Sedan from 0-60 mph in just 4.5 seconds and a limited top speed of 130 mph (155 mph with the M Sport Package option).</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/10/special-edition-760li-celebrates-25-years-of-bmw-12-cylinder-car/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-70443662807335511822012-09-12T17:10:00.000-07:002012-09-12T17:10:00.802-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>06 September 2012 09:00</P><P>A cynical marketing exercise, or Mini getting back to its pocket rocket best? Say what you like about the new (deep breath) Mini John Cooper Works GP, but there's no arguing with its raw specification. </P><P>With slightly more power (up to 215bhp from 208bhp in the standard JCW), it's the fastest Mini yet. It's also one of the priciest, at £28,790.</P><P>The power bump of 7bhp isn't especially headline-grabbing, despite what Mini calls 'extensive modifications' to the 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. At least the internals sound suitably racey to justify that hallowed badge: the block is aluminium, there's reinforced pistons, a strengthened cylinder head, and a lighter crankshaft.</P><P>It's a torquey little engine too, thanks to BMW's know-how in twin-scroll turbocharging, and direct injection. Maximum torque of 191lb ft troubles the front tyres from 1750rpm, and there's an overboost function that pushes output to 206lb ft for short periods. </P><P>Want some speed numbers? You'll hit 62mph from rest in 6.3sec (0.2sec faster than a normal Mini JCW) and 150mph flat out.</P><P>With all that urge being sent through the front wheels, Mini has sensibly upgraded the rubber to give the JCW GP a fighting chance of applying its power to the road. The wider sports-spec tyres are worn by 17-inch four-spoke alloys reminiscent of those fitted to the previous Mini GP, back in 2006.  The natty two-tone rims are also lighter than those on the standard car. </P><P>The standard JCW is already a pretty fraught and furious steer, so it'll be interesting to see how the 200 GP examples destined for the UK handle our scarred blacktop, with their 20mm lower ride height and adjustable suspension. Give the Mini GP a smooth surface for best results: Mini are claiming an 8min 23sec Nurburgring lap time.</P><P>Track day fans will appreciate the upgraded brakes: 280mm discs on the rear, and 330mm vented discs at the front, grabbed by six-piston callipers.</P><P>Under the stickers, you'll spot swollen front and rear bumpers, bigger side skirts, and a rear wing and diffuser combo that Mini claims lowers lift by 90%, and somehow manages to also cut drag (by 6%) as well. </P><P>Inside, the rear seats have been junked – though there's no weight saving due to the additions elsewhere. Other changes in the cabin are Recaro front seats, and a smattering of sporty stitching and badging. Unlike regular Minis, the GP won't be subject to the usual smorgasbord of expensive options – this is very much an enthusiast special, a one-size-fits-all spec. GP owners want less accessories, and more performance, according to Mini.</P><P>Just a few points you should know if the GP has rocketed to the top of your wish list. Firstly, you'll have to have it in grey just like the last GP. Second: despite the hardcore spec, there's no mechanical limited-slip differential – just a computer-controlled mimic act that replicates a proper LSD by sending power to the wheel with most grip when the electronics sense wheelspin.</P><P>And, if you want to clap eyes on one of the strictly limited run of 2000, you'll find the GP on display at the Paris motor show later this month. Chequebooks at the ready...</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Mini-John-Cooper-Works-GP-2012-first-official-pictures2/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-46738954501929401732012-09-12T12:49:00.000-07:002012-09-12T12:49:00.363-07:00 <IMG class="image image-news3 " title=KillaJoule alt=KillaJoule src="/wwwnews3.jpg" width=250 height=200><P><STRONG>In brief:</STRONG> Eva Håkansson broke 216mph in the KillaJoule at the BUB Motorcycle Speed Trials at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah.</P><P>The KillaJoule is an all-electric streamliner motorcycle racing in the Sidecar Motorcycle category. It was hand-built by the KillaCycle engineering team of Bill Dube and Eva Håkansson, the husband and wife team behind the ElectraCat that climbed Pikes Peak and the KillaCycle dragster that has won so many awards and records.</P><P>This is the KillaJoule's second year on the Flats and it measured a top speed of 216.504 MPH and set a new record for the class at 191.488 MPH over the flying mile. </P><P>This new record was just the start. Eva also took home the Fastest Sidecar Motorcycle</EM> prize and the Female Rider Award</EM> at BUB this year. </P><P>Eva is a graduate student of engineering at the University of Denver. You may recall we saw the KillaJoule during its build back in 2010.</P><P>Eva has set her sights on the highest record in this class, currently held by a combustion engine motorcycle, at 219 mph. She hopes to break that next year.</P><P>Photo credits: KillaCycle Racing</P><P>This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.</P><br /><p><a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/futurecars/main/~3/Or1Q-Ndq7qQ/killacycles-eva-breaks-216-mph-at-bonneville" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-79230730221122360632012-09-12T09:38:00.000-07:002012-09-12T09:38:00.351-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>10 September 2012 09:00</P><P>Kia will launch an estate version of the Ceed family hatch in the UK on 10 September 2012, with an unashamed focus on grabbing crucial fleet sales. As such. the Ceed Sportswagon range is turbodiesel only, to try and entice fleet buyers in with low tax rates.</P><P>The Ceed Sportswagon kicks off at £16,895 for the entry-level, car, rising to £24,795 for the highest spec car. Read on for the full run-down of the Ceed Sportswagon range.</P><P>For a start, all models get the same 528-litre bootspace, which expands to 1642 with the back seats folded. A Focus estate musters only 476 and 1502 litres respectively, and an Astra Sports Tourer a piffling 500 and 1550 litres. The Hyundai i40 Tourer which shares a platform with the Ceed gets - you've guessed it - exactly the same bootspace, seats up or down.</P><P>Kia's trimlines couldn't be more logical (or unimaginative) in name: it's simply 1, 2, 3 and 4. Ceed '1's get electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, air-con,  front electric windows,, remote central locking, cooled glovebox, flat-folding 60:40 split rear seats, ambient front lighting, Bluetooth connectivity and an iPod-friendly audio system.</P><P>Ceed '2' models come with LED running lights, leather steering wheel, gearknob and handbrake, a splash of chrome, all-round electric windows, luggage net, cruise control and rear parking sensors.</P><P>Upgrade to a Ceed 3 and there's privacy glass, automatic headlights, automatic front wipers, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual-zone climate control, and a seven-inch touchscreen sat-nav interface, which doubles as a reversing camera screen.</P><P>And to be the envy of your fellow fleet drivers, talk the boss into speccing you a Ceed 4. The top-of-the-range Ceed is treated to 17-inch alloys, heated black leather seats and steering wheel, an electronic parking brake, a starter button for the engine, and rear air ventilation. Opt for the further loaded Ceed ‘4 Tech’ and there's a panoramic sunroof, 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat,  front parking sensors, lane departure warning system and xenon headlights.<BR></P><P>For comparsion, an equivalent Ford Focus estate equipped with a 1.6-litre TDCi engine produces 113bhp and 199lb ft, giving 0-62mph in 11.1sec and 120mph flat out. Interestingly, a 1.6-litre diesel Focus returns a claimed 67.3mpg and 109g/km - identical figures to the lower-powered 1.4-litre Kia.</P>'4 Tech’ 1.6 CRDi six-speed manual </P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Kia-Ceed-Sportswagon-2012-first-official-pictures/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-88497163604773105192012-09-12T05:39:00.000-07:002012-09-12T05:39:00.170-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>Spy shots</P>07 September 2012 14:00</P><P>Sent in from our spy photographer in the United States, these spy shots show Lexus’s next-generation IS saloon testing ahead of a 2013 reveal.</P><P>It’s been a long time coming – the current IS has been on sale since 2005, with only mild trimline changes and tweaks to keep it fresh. During the same period, Mercedes has heavily revised the C-class, and BMW has come along with the brand new best-in-class F30 3-series.</P><P>Absolutely. The new IS is sure to get Lexus’s current ‘spindle grille’ arrangement, as seen on the LF-LC concept car, and latterly the new LS and GS saloons. An F-Sport version with lowered suspension, sporty wheels and more flared bodykit is also likely too – even the flagship LS limo got the ‘F’ treatment in its recent reveal.</P><P>Whether or not there’ll be more than just the saloon seen testing here is up for debate – the first-gen IS also came in a rare estate format, but the current car shunned pet-carrying capacity. It’s not been a one bodystyle range – Lexus does offer a convertible IS with a folding hard-top roof, but it’s so rare we’d forgive you for ever having set eyes on one outside of a Lexus dealership.</P><P>As the spy shot camo-striptease continues, there’ll be more clues on what models of IS we’ll see in the UK, so stay tuned to CAR Online. Here’s hoping for a return for the flagship IS-F to keep the next twin-turbo M3 honest…</P><P>The current IS is the sore thumb of the Lexus range – it’s the only model that Toyota’s posh arm doesn’t offer as a hybrid. There are electric motors in their family hatch (CT200h), limo (LS) and even full-size SUV (RX) but the fleet-market-friendly IS makes do with conventional internal combustion only. It’ll be interesting to see if Lexus goes down the hybrid route with the next car.</P><P>Or could piston engines depart from the IS altogether? CAR recently scooped a US-makret Lexus HS testing a hydrogen fuel cell drivetrain – click here for the spy shots and full story. If trials are successful, one imagines there’s no reason why (most likely in the US) hydrogen power couldn’t migrate into the next IS.<BR></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Secret-new-cars/Search-Results/Spyshots/Lexus-IS-2013-spy-shots/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-4245272536076842292012-09-12T00:47:00.000-07:002012-09-12T00:47:00.260-07:00 <IMG class="image image-news3 " title="2012 Nissan Maxima" alt="2012 Nissan Maxima" src="C:\Program Files\CartyStudios Corporation\Auto Blogging Software\data\FUTURE CAR\future car\" width=250 height=200><P>The Maxima is Nissan's luxury sedan that represents the highest combination of sport and luxury the company has to offer before going to their premium brand's lineup. It's a plush, comfortable, and fun drive that engages you immediately. 26 mpg on the highway doesn't hurt either.</P><P>Are you looking for some soul in your sedan? Welcome to the 2012 Maxima,® the 4-Door Sports Car.® Fender flares crouched over 19" wheels are your invitation. A 290-hp V6 is ready to reel in the horizon. Inside, room for five and all the luxuries and technology you’d expect. But you won’t confuse Maxima with any other 4-door. Because at heart, it’s a sports car. And that makes all the difference in the world. The 2013 Maxima is ready to rev up your life.</EM></P><P>The Maxima is the top-line car for the Nissan model lineup before going to the Acura brand. It is an extremely luxurious ride that, with all those posh accoutrements, still manages a respectable 19mpg in the city and 26mpg on the highway. It's a true mid-sized sedan in size and space, marking it apart from some others in the segment which are much smaller.</P><P>The Maxima sports a refined, but aggressive look. Inside, it's all about comfort and ergonomics, with plush seating, smooth lines and tones, and luxury perks like a shaded rear window and optional Dual Panel Moonroof – which opens the rooftop to the sky in a way you have to see to believe. It rides comfortably, but not so thickly that you can't feel the sportiness under the hood and on the road. </P><P>The 2012 Maxima is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 putting out 290 horsepower. This pipes through a continuously variable transmission (CVT) which has driver-selectable modes for driving style and situation. For most drivers, putting it into Drive mode will mean better economy and a smooth drive, but for those times when exhilaration is what you want, DS is the way to go. Optional paddle shifters add to this experience.</P><P>The suspension and handling of the Maxima are a perfect blend of sports and luxury car, meeting somewhere in the middle to provide both comfort and fun. The steering system responds dynamically to the driver based on vehicle speed, with less play at higher speeds and more play during lower, city speeds. This gives less driver "wobble" on the road and improves both fuel economy and road feel.</P><P>Most of the Maxima's appeal lies in its mix of luxury and sport driving. Yet the underlying fuel economy standard it holds seems to belay the normal perception in both luxury and sport vehicles. Most of the economy is thanks to the high-performance engine and the next-generation CVT. The Maxima is not a light car, weighing in at nearly 3,600 pounds, so the mileage gained by the engine and transmission are significant. In the mid-sized luxury market, 16/26 is about average, though some other competitors (most at a higher price) beat this by 3 or 4 mpg.</P><P><STRONG>Extreme luxury for a small price</STRONG> when compared to some of the competition. The Maxima is at the low-end of the luxury mid-sized sedan price range, but delivers some excellent competition for the higher-priced competitor.</P><P><STRONG>A fun drive</STRONG> all around, with a sporty feel and strong acceleration. Despite being a luxury car, it's still fun to drive.</P><P><STRONG>Fuel economy could improve</STRONG> and likely will with successive model years. The engine and CVT have really come into their own, though, and economy improvements are likely to come from light weighting.</P><P><STRONG>Not easy to eco-drive</STRONG> in this car. While putting the transmission into Drive mode does most of the work for you, in order to maximize economy, you must work for it by feathering the pedal and taking it easy despite the definite need for speed this car exudes.</P><P>The Maxima is a great car that sells extremely well in this class. Once you sit in one, it becomes obvious why this is. Definitely a well-built car with a lot of appeal.</P><P><STRONG>Test Period Length and Limitations</STRONG><BR>Car was driven at a Nissan-sponsored ride-and-drive event. We had the car for about forty-five minutes and drove it on both city streets and highways. </P><P>This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.</P><br /><p><a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/futurecars/main/~3/6dXNSjc9qP0/2012-nissan-maxima-the-luxury-of-economy" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-87025670313304658362012-09-11T21:45:00.000-07:002012-09-11T21:45:00.560-07:00 By Ben Pulman</P>Used Cars</P>07 September 2012 09:00</P><P>RS2 Audi’s Quattro division was formed in 1983, but Chairman Mao wouldn’t have been impressed by the work ethic: it took until 1990 before an ‘S’ model appeared, and another four years for the first RS to arrive.</P><P>The Audi 80 Avant underpinnings were humble, but with help from Porsche the RS2 was transformed into an über-estate that could hit 30mph quicker than a McLaren F1. The turbocharged five-cylinder engine and red brake calipers proudly wear the Porsche name, Stuttgart’s sports cars donated alloys and doors mirrors, and the inspiration for the huge rear light bar (which you expect to pulsate like KITT) is obvious.</P><P>Turbo lag means the power takes more time to arrive than a Boris Johnson reply but from 3500rpm the RS2 is genuinely fast – and there’s no tyre scrabble thanks to the Quattro system. It made estates cool, having children suddenly appealed, and something special was started: it’s the reason there are five chunky silhouettes on the pages before you. Hurrah for bootspace. <BR>Just 2881 RS2s were ever built – with a mere 182 officially coming to the UK – so the pool of cars is small if you want one today. Most boast over 100k miles but still cost at least £10k. Thankfully, according to Sunny Bhamra, service manager at Audi specialist Fontain Motors, besides corrosion damage, the need for an oil change every year or 10,000 miles, and the general wear expected on a car over a decade old, there are no surprises to be wary of. This is the ur-RS.</P><BR><P><STRONG>Engine</STRONG> 2226cc 20v turbo 5-cyl, 311bhp @ 6500rpm, 302lb ft @ 3000rpm <STRONG>Transmission</STRONG> 6-spd manual, 4wd <STRONG>Performance</STRONG> 4.8sec 0-62mph, 163mph, 18.8mpg <STRONG>Original UK price (1994)</STRONG> £45,705</P><P><STRONG>One we found: RS2 Avant, 1995, 110k miles, RHD, Polar Silver, FSH, 12 months’ MoT, four months’ tax, private. Trade £11,500</STRONG></P><BR>Rate this article...Average rating: <IMG title="Rated 0 out of 5" alt="Rated 0 out of 5" src="/ratingstarsuser0.gif">0 (0 votes) <br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search-Results/First-drives/Used-cars-how-to-buy-a-second-hand-Audi-RS2-Avant-1994-95/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-3255295938838613342012-09-11T17:49:00.000-07:002012-09-11T17:49:00.440-07:00 <IMG vspace=4 src="/bmw-4-series-grancoupe.jpg" width=628 height=421> <P>From here on out, anything with two doors in the BMW lineup will have an even-numbered designation, meaning that the 3 Series Coupe will now become the 4 Series. The big exception to this rule, of course, is BMW's new-found passion for the four-door coupe. The 6 Series Gran Coupe made its debut this year, but next year a smaller version of this design is on its way to the U.S. courtesy of the all-new 4 Series Gran Coupe.</P><P>Although this prototype looks very similar to the upcoming 3 Series GT hatchback, the sleeker roofline and lower and longer decklid are clues to the fact that this is the 4GC, but it still keeps the long hood that has become a key element of the 2012 3 Series sedan (F30). Our spy photographers also said that this 4 Series Gran Coupe appeared to be a little bit longer than a standard F30 sedan.</P><P>No official word on powertrains for the 4 Series Gran Coupe, but it should carry over the same engines as the current 3 Series sedan. That means we can expect 428i Gran Coupe and 435i Gran Coupe names with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system likely folding into the mix, as well.</P><P>In addition to this model, we've already spotted the BMW 4 Series a few times this year in coupe form as well as convertible both with the retractable hard top up and down. </P><br /><p><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/bmw-4-series-gran-coupe-spied-testing/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-65621953896306203992012-09-11T13:27:00.000-07:002012-09-11T13:27:00.070-07:00 <IMG vspace=4 src="/2012-bmw-m5-fd.jpg" width=628 height=417> <P>With the 2013 BMW M5 finally going on sale in the U.S., we definitely saw this coming. BimmerBoost</EM> recently got a hold of engine dyno run for the new M5, and is reporting that the car's twin-turbo V8 is "severely" underrated.</P><P>Officially, the M5's 4.4-liter V8 is rated at 560 horsepower and 500 pound-feet of torque, but the dyno graph reveals numbers at the rear wheels to be 527 hp and 476 lb-ft in completely stock form. While the idea of the engine being underrated is just an assumption, the general rule of thumb is a 15-percent drivetrain loss – if accurate, the new M5's losses would be just six percent. Using the 15-percent rule, the 2013 M5 would lay down 476 hp at the wheels.</P><P>The idea of BMW underrating its engine outputs is nothing new. Earlier this year, the new 328i show some impressive numbers of its own. </P><br /><p><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/07/2013-bmw-m5-may-have-more-horsepower-than-reported/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-80585111954109630552012-09-11T09:48:00.000-07:002012-09-11T09:48:00.649-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>06 September 2012 14:00</P><P>Audi has taken its tin-opener to the RS5, to create this RS5 Cabriolet. Powertrain-wise, it's mechanically identical to the coupe, only now there's a soft-top roof that'll fold away in 15secs at speeds of up to 31mph. </P><P>Folding the roof swallows 60 litres of the boot's 380-litre capacity, but it's the sonorous engine that we're more interested in...</P><P>The drivetrain is unchanged from the hard-top RS5. A normally-aspirated 444bhp 4.2-litre V8 drives all four wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission. The car is suspended on Audi's adaptive dampers that can vary the ride comfort to suit sporty driving, and there's dynamic modes for the steering and throttle response, too.</P><P>The RS5 hits 6.2mph in 4.9secs, giving it a 0.4sec disadvantage against its hard-top sister. The top speed is limited to 155mph, though you can pay to have that raised to 174mph if you're an autobahn regular.</P><P>Of course, the RS5 Cabriolet is slightly less focused than its hard-top cousin – customers will prefer wind-in-the-hair to driving like their hair is on fire – but top-down motoring provides an even better showcase for the rev-happy V8.</P><P>Audi hasn't provided figures specific denoting the weight gain of the RS5 cabriolet over the coupe, but cunningly hints in its specifications release that 'each hp only needs to move 4.267 kg of vehicle weight'. By our maths, 4.627kg x 450hp (444bhp in good old imperial speak) works out at 1920kg – 200kg more than an RS5 coupe.</P><P>To readjust the weight distribution, the RS5 Cabriolet gets aluminium front wings to save weight. The rest of the aggressive body mods are familiar from the RS5 coupe, with the same front bumper, trademark RS oval exhaust outlets, and blistered arches. One weight-saving innovation from the RS4 Avant to make it onto the RS5 is the mountain bike-esque petal-shaped brake discs. The wavey-edged stoppers save 3kg of unsprung mass.</P><P>UK pricing hasn't been announced yet, but in Germany the RS5 cab will start at €88,500, so reckon on a £70k+ price tag when the car lands in your local Blighty Audi dealer.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Audi-RS5-Cabriolet-2012-first-official-pictures/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-21852799963482585302012-09-11T05:59:00.000-07:002012-09-11T05:59:00.754-07:00 <BIG>The Best Argument For A Wagon Revival</BIG></EM> <P><IMG alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon" src="/2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"></P><P>Each year the remaining air continues to wheeze out of America's longtime love affair with the station wagon. The SUV and crossover have had their way with our sensibilities and there seems no reversing the course. This is sad, but wagons will survive in America, dammit. They always find a way to claw on, no matter how gleefully skeptics keep stepping on their fingers.</P><P>A premium wagon will always drive better than a premium SUV or crossover, and the fuel mileage figures will always be noticeably better. Space and comfort? Roughly equal. And nowadays if you want to stand out and be noticed for your incredible wealth of good taste, knowledge and sophistication, a me-too SUV or crossover cannot help you.</P><P>So what will we do if the day comes when the last station wagon is gone from U.S. roads? Cry like sissies?</P><P>Hell, no. We wagonites will either all move to Europe or hoard spare wagon parts for the coming automotive apocalypse and take impeccable care of our cherished many-windowed relics.</P><P>And so it's time to drive the latest BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon – called 3 Series Touring or T-Modell on the old continent – and, right off, we can shout that we love that BMW sees fit to bring the new F31-generation 3 Series wagon to North America... in around April of 2013. Whatever the wait, we'll take it. (Deliveries start in western Europe on September 22nd.) Luckily, the only trim available to test at this Germany drive event was the one that will also sell most in the U.S., the 328i sports wagon. <BR><IMG id=vimage_5262896 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon side view" src="/lead2-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262897 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon front view" src="/lead3-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262898 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon rear view" src="/lead4-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"> <P>Just as the new 3 Series sedan weighs about 90 pounds less when put on the scales alongside the previous E90 generation, the F31 fifth-generation 3 Series wagon loses nearly the same amount of weight. This is a great start to things.</P><P>This 3 Series sports wagon grows up and out, too, promising a more astute grasp of driving dynamics and interior space arrangement than previous generations. While the length of the car is stretched 3.7 inches beyond the E91 generation, the wheelbase grows 2.0 inches, front track 1.5 inches and rear track almost 1.9 inches. All of these numbers, together with 10-percent greater rigidity in the wagon architecture, have us imagining already how our drive will be: pretty satisfying most likely.</P><P>BMW has committed irreversibly to Pirelli Cinturato P7 run-flats for safety, convenience and the benefits of added rear cargo space in the absence of a spare. These treads are used with the optional 18-inch wheels of the Luxury line trim – 225/45 R18 91Y all around – and this setup actually pleased us all day on all roads. Standard wheels and tires for the Sport, Modern and Luxury lines are 17-inch, while the M Sport line starts at 18 inches and can opt up to a 19-inch set. For solid everyday wagoning along with good steady dynamics, we liked the 18s just fine; the greater overall stance of the sports wagon's architecture helped this ride situation quite a bit. The trick with run-flats has simply been knowing on which trims to include them – we dislike them on 35i engine trims and M cars – plus there is also ongoing research by tire manufacturers to create run-flats that feel less and less like heavy wooden tires. These Cinturato P7s do a pretty good job of it.</P><P><IMG id=vimage_5262911 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon front fender" src="/lead15-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262910 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon side window" src="/lead14-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262908 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon rear hatch" src="/lead12-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262909 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon taillight" src="/lead13-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"></P><P>Another key issue on any wagon is the comfort and space inside. We don't expect 7 Series levels of comfort, but we do expect a top-notch usable cargo area with clever flexibility designed in. Whether it's with all seats in place or all folded down, rear cargo numbers for the 3 Series sports wagon are up by 1.2 cubic feet, so the range is now between 17.5 and 53.0 cubic feet, which makes this the most spacious small premium wagon out there. (By just a scootch, mind you.)</P><P>Flexibility is really nice here, by the way. We played with everything and used various development experts on site as our assistants in exploring it all. There's the standard 40:20:40 rear seatbacks that drop forward flat, to start with. The separating cross member for the cargo area is, of course, removable, but it has been split into two parts now since one of the old complaints was that the single member was too heavy for some people. Now, the forward piece contains a sturdy pull-out separator net that attaches in headliner slots above the rear passenger doors. The rear piece manages the rolled-up cargo cover. Removing either or both of these is now very quick work.</P><P>That first cross member piece, once removed after dropping the seatbacks forward, can be securely slotted into the seatbacks (now acting as cargo floor). Then you can pull up on the cargo netting and attach it to the overhead secure points, and now all objects and living creatures loaded back there would be safe and secure if hard braking is called for. As a bonus, below the cargo floor, where there isn't a spare tire anymore, is a large compartmentalized tray for tucking away whatever you like. A smaller rearward floor panel reveals the place where you can store those longer cargo cross members when you don't need them at all. Slick and easy to live with.</P><P><IMG id=vimage_5262904 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon interior" src="/lead7-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262905 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon front seats" src="/lead8-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262906 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon rear seats" src="/lead9-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"><IMG id=vimage_5262907 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon rear cargo area" src="/lead10-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"></P><P>The multiple award-winning 241-horsepower N20 twin-scroll turbocharged four-cylinder 2.0-liter engine once again reminds us of just how smitten we are by all these latest 328i trims. We've said it already in other Bimmer reviews, but you most likely do not ever need to shell out the extra cash to get the 335i. This extremely impressive four-cylinder already feels far better than the naturally aspirated six-cylinder it replaced last year. Crucify us, but it's true. There's more power at more useful revs (5,000 – 6,000 rpm), way more torque over a wider band (258 pound-feet between 1,250 and 4,800 rpm) and 11-percent greater fuel efficiency with the standard eight-speed Steptronic automatic than the outgoing inline six with six-speed automatic. The direct injection at idle is a little tick-tick-ticky, but under throttle the 328i wagon is probably the smoothest driving hauler in any class. And in a smaller premium wagon like this one, saying "standard automatic" doesn't make us groan much, especially since this one is so good in this configuration.</P><P>The driving pleasure, whether calibrated to Eco Pro with start-and-stop, Comfort, Sport or Sport+, is quite sophisticated for this class, and the 328i sports wagon puts the soon-to-land Audi A4 Allroad quattro in the weeds when it comes to these asphalt qualities. Get the M Sport line, adaptive M sport suspension and variable sport steering, and you can make your 328i wagon as nasty as you like. Go the whole hog route with all things just as you like, though, and be prepared to shell out upwards of $55,000 after starting at the estimated $38,500 base price. Oh, you can always go higher, yep.</P><P><IMG id=vimage_5262899 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon engine" src="/lead5-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"></P><P>Our 328i sports wagon Luxury trim tester on this day was a consummately handsome unit, though the high-gloss emphasis of the Luxury trim would not be our first choice. Still, we cannot whine about the astute sport adjustable seat selection, nicely driver-oriented dash and console, nor the Driving Experience Control selector and specific shift lever and steering wheel paddles for the sport automatic gearbox $500 option. The added space for rear passengers in all dimensions is another plus as a result of the longer wheelbase and wider tracks of this wagon.</P><P>As to the design of all that added sheetmetal, we like what we see a lot. The 3 Series' newer face is more interesting to look at these days, and the rediscovered true kidney grille is welcome. The contour lines running the full length of the sports wagon just add to the sporting appeal of the car. As we were frequently staring at the tail end of other test cars on this day in Germany, this new solution for the wagon is particularly successful to our eyes. It's not only very handsome and has much better looking taillights, but the tailgate load opening is wider and taller now, too, making luggage hefting easier for anyone.</P><P><IMG id=vimage_5262900 alt="2014 BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon rear 3/4 view" src="/lead6-2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-fd.jpg"></P><P>No manual six-speed transmission seems to be on the dance card for this new sports wagon once it hits American shores, however, and that will make some aficionados unhappy. That manual is legendarily good, too, but we don't mind being forced to live without it, at least in this 328i wagon setup. For some sections of our drive we shifted the sport automatic with our right hand at the console lever, but it starts to feel a little silly after a bit. Fortunately, the paddles work well and the Steptronic eight is in healthy condition these days. It holds revs, too, in Sport manual mode, and that counts for a lot. It's also just as quick to 62 mph (100 kmh) as the manual – 6.0 seconds estimated, but it'll easily go quicker in capable hands – and does it all while saving fuel and polluting less.</P><P>A 302-hp 335i trim for the sports wagon is currently under discussion, always with the eight-speed Steptronic, arriving sometime after the 328i has established itself here in 2013. Also on the table are xDrive trims of the wagon. Regarding the latest 255-hp 330d trim with 413 lb-ft of torque from 1,500 to 3,000 rpm and a nearly 4,000-pound towing capacity, BMW in the U.S. is just telling us that it is a hot point of discussion. We hope so because that would be wagon nirvana.</P><P>So, do not ever call the station wagon culture in America down for the count. With wagons like this setting the bar, we have a feeling many could come back to the fold. </P>Engine:2.0L Turbo I4Power:241 HP / 258 LB-FTTransmission:8-Speed Auto0-60 Time:6.0 SecondsTop Speed:155 MPH (limited)Drivetrain:Rear-Wheel DriveCurb Weight:3,494 LBSSeating:2+3Cargo:17.5 / 53.0 CU-FTMPG:25.5 City / 42.7 HWY (Euro)MSRP:$38,500 base (est.)<br /><p><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/06/2014-bmw-3-series-sports-wagon-first-drive-review/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-45643508833356824832012-09-11T01:41:00.000-07:002012-09-11T01:41:00.771-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>07 September 2012 09:00</P><P>Ownership of the the all-new Range Rover will start from £71,295 for the entry-level 3.0-litre TDV6 diesel model. </P><P>The flagship 5.0-litre supercharged V8 model is a good deal more at £98,395, but for that you do get the 503bhp engine from the Jaguar XFR, and 0-62mph in 5.1sec...</P><P>Never before has a V6 diesel engine been available in a Range Rover. The new 3.0-litre TDV6 unit pumps out 254bhp, and is the lightest motor you can have in the car. Thanks to the diet elsewhere, mostly from the substantially lighter monocoque chassis, a TDV6 Range Rover weighs in 420kg less than the 4.4-litre TDV8 Range Rover of the previous generation.</P><P>So, with a smaller engine and a lot less weight, you'd expect a decent showing on the economy front, and you'd be right. The TDV6 Rangie is 22% more efficient than its equivalent predecessor, good for a claimed 37.7mpg and 196g/km of CO2.</P><P>Also helpful in the economy stakes is the eight-speed automatic transmission, standard fit on all Range Rovers. The other powerplant options are the 4.4-litre TDV8, and the aforementioned 5.0-litre V8 petrol. Of more relevance to UK readers is of course the diesel variant, now up to 332bhp from 313bhp in the old car.</P><P>Despite losing around 300-400kg in mass compared to the old car, the new RR maintains its 3500kg towing capacity, and has a wading depth of up to 900mm, up 200mm versus the previous-generation car. </P><P>Lightweight adaptive suspension gives best-in-class wheel articulation, while the lauded Terrain Response system now has an automatic mode, which monitors conditions 'under foot' and sets the car up appropriately, without the driver having to select modes manually.</P><P>The new Range Rover mixes the best of both worlds. On the one hand, its off-road credentials are better than ever, and it's a more ecologically responsible machine. Yet despite the brand enthusiast-pleasing, mud-plugging ability, on-board luxury has been improved, not compromised. There's even wider access to the rear quarters thanks to the RR's common role as a chauffeured limo, and 120mm more legroom once you're back there.</P><P>Want more pub ammo? How about the fact that it takes just 142 seconds to stamp out a new RR bodyshell, or that each structure contains 3722 rivets? If personalisation is more your thing, rest safe in the knowledge that there are 18,000 combinations of exterior and interior finish, and that those stylish new wheels are 2.5kg lighter each than those on the L322 Rangie.</P><P>The runaway success Evoque is still doing a sterling duty for JLR, selling around 90,000 units worldwide as of July 2012. However, a great deal of its appeal comes from the mystique of buying into the Range Rover family - the full-size RR remains a critical car for the company. </P><P>To secure the future of the vehicle, over £370m has been invested in the JLR Solihull plant, including creating the world’s largest aluminium bodyshop.</P><P>Land Rover isn't resting on its laurels. In 2013, we'll see the emergence of a hybrid Range Rover, teaming electric power with the 3.0-litre TDV6 engine. Land Rover says the hybrid Rangie could record CO2 figures of around 169g/km - no mean feat for a 5m long luxury SUV.</P><P>For even more in-depth analysis of why Britain's 4x4 will rule the world, check out the September 2012 issue of CAR magazine, on sale now.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Range-Rover-2012-prices-and-further-specs/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-65771600221038528852012-09-10T21:55:00.000-07:002012-09-10T21:55:01.124-07:00 By Ben Pulman</P>Used Cars</P>10 September 2012 09:10</P><P>Audi’s maiden foray into M5 territory marked more new developments for Quattro. Power still came from a twin-turbo engine (now a 4.2-litre V8 from the S6), but future traits such as silver door mirrors, RS-branded calipers and twin oval tailpipes appeared. This was also the first RS fitted with an automatic transmission, and the first to be offered as a saloon.</P><P>The Avant endured though, and in 2004 it was offered as a special ‘Plus’ model when production of the saloon stopped. Just 999 were built, 100 came to the UK, and for £7875 more there was an extra 30bhp, a broader torque curve, a sports exhaust, cross-drilled brakes, a 10mm suspension drop, firmer dampers, a de-chromed exterior, darkened 19in alloys, and the limiter was raised from 155 to 175mph.</P><P>It’s the car we have here. There’s a muscle car-lite rumble from eight cylinders, throttle response is keener than the RS4, the steering is meatier, but although the brakes need less effort there’s less feel. Dynamic Ride Control (DRC) was an RS6 debutante too, with a system of diagonally linked shock absorbers to reduce roll. It works, but this car’s party piece is peerless traction matched to sufficient pace to humble a supercar.</P><P>There are more Mk1 RS6s below £10k than there are Mk1 RS4s simply because there are more of them about. The Plus is rare though, and the cheapest we’ve seen was £18,500. If you’re in the market listen for suspension knocks and look for DRC leaks.</P><BR><P><STRONG>Engine</STRONG> 4176cc 40v twin-turbo V8, 473bhp @ 6000rpm, 413lb ft @ 1950-6000rpm <STRONG>Transmission</STRONG> 5-spd auto, 4wd <STRONG>Performance</STRONG> 4.6sec 0-62mph, 175mph (limited), 19.3mpg<STRONG> Original UK price</STRONG> (2004)  £66,675 </P><P><STRONG>One we found</STRONG> RS6 Avant Plus, 2004, 90k miles, Sprint Blue, FSH, HPI clear, recent cambelt/water pump change. Private £18,500</P><BR>Rate this article...Average rating: <IMG title="Rated 5 out of 5" alt="Rated 5 out of 5" src="/ratingstarsuser10.gif">5 (1 votes) Add your comment</P><IMG border=0 alt=daveandrews13 src="/24025143.jpg"> <IMG alt="reward badge" src="/icongold.gif"></P>daveandrews13 says </P><P>DRC is a real weakness with these cars and tends to get replaced if Audi decide not to replace them.</P><P>10 September 2012 19:20</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search-Results/First-drives/Used-cars-how-to-buy-a-second-hand-Audi-RS6-Avant-2002-2004/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-86535648672540608272012-09-10T17:23:00.000-07:002012-09-10T17:23:00.364-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>06 September 2012 00:01</P><P>This is Ford's new Mondeo. Think it looks familiar? You'd be absolutely right - the European Mondeo is basically a rebadged and European-honed version of Ford USA's Fusion model.</P><P>That means the same large, slightly Aston Martin-style grille we've seen grafted onto the facelifted Fiesta, another new application for the 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine, and even more tech for this fourth-gen Mondeo.</P><P>You'd better believe it - the 999cc Mondeo is here. The tiny three-pot turbo already sees duty in the Focus and the facelifted Fiesta, but the considerably larger Mondeo will be its biggest test yet. </P><P>Good for 123bhp and 125lb ft, the engine can even be 'overboosted' to 147lb ft, handy for those opportunistic overtaking moments. That should please the Mondeo's crucial fleet market customers...</P><P>Ford estimates that the 1.0-litre Mondeo will return 130g/km in CO2 output and best-in-class fuel efficiency. The current petrol-powered benchmark to beat is the BMW 320i - although far more powerful at 184bhp, the Three emits 147g/km. </P><P>Given that tax bands are such a battle ground in the fleet sector, the application of Ford's Engine of the Year-winning mill could be invaluable in enticing buyers away from the more premium German brands.</P><P>You'll have spotted Ford is joining the trend for oversized front grilles and slim, sharp headlights (thanks Audi), while the car's profile is a lot more rakish that the traditional three-box silhouette of old. </P><P>There's also a more heavily-contoured bonnet - Ford calls the design a 'power dome' and it's also applied to the new Fiesta.</P><P>To these eyes there's a certain resemblance to the Kia Optima from some angles, though we'll wait to see it in the metal, and of course drive the new Mondeo before we deliver the final CAR verdict.</P><P><STRONG>>> Do you like the 2012 Ford Mondeo's styling, or is the One Ford global policy too unimaginative? Tell us your thoughts in the comments below</EM></STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Ford-Mondeo-2012-first-official-pictures2/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-14975116584714953982012-09-10T12:39:00.000-07:002012-09-10T12:40:08.199-07:00 By Georg Kacher</P>Spy shots</P>10 September 2012 11:00</P><P>Your eyes don't deceive you: here we have another camouflaged Range Rover scooped while on test in the UK. But while the all-new Range Rover has already been revealed, this is the long wheelbase Range Rover, set for a sales debut in 2013.</P><P>When Land Rover invented the luxury 4x4 segment back in 1970, it couldn't have conceived how the car would evolve into one of the world's most iconic and successful luxury cars. Even the just-replaced 2003 L322 model underestimated just how popular the Rangie would be as a chauffeur-driven car, so Land Rover is finally turning its attention to a rear passenger-friendly RR.</P><P>It's especially targeted at the Chinese and Russian markets, thanks to their can't-buy-them-fast-enough thirst for luxury British cars, and the convention in those parts to be chauffeured rather than drive oneself.</P><P>The all-new L405 RR is already bigger in the back: its new aluminium architecture and slight dimensions stretch liberates an extra 120mm of rear legroom over the outgoing model. The 'Pullman' RR will get 150mm of stretch in the wheelbase, and will swap the three-seater rear bench for two individual chairs.</P><P>Like now-defunct Maybach, the rear chairs will be fully independent and electrically reclinable, according to CAR's sources, while the whole cabin will be even more sumptuously appointed and open to further trim and upholstery options, taken from the highly successful Autobiography Edition. </P><P>Expect a hefty price tag of well over £100,000 for the LWB Rangie, which will only be available with V8 engines, in diesel and petrol form, until the TDV6 diesel-hybrid emerges in 2013.</P><P>Some of you may remember Land Rover dabbling with a long-wheelbase Range Rover bodystyle before. Back in 1992, Land Rover offered an LSE car, with a very generous 203mm added into the chassis, taking the famous 100-inch wheelbase up to 108 inches. </P><P>As with the new car, top-spec engines only made it into the 1992 LSE: a 4.2-litre iteration of the venerable Rover petrol V8 saw duty, putting out 200bhp. How times have changed: the supercharged 5.0-litre V8 in the new car pumps out 503bhp, meaning 62mph in 5.1 seconds.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Secret-new-cars/Search-Results/Spyshots/Range-Rover-long-wheelbase-2013-scooped/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-25580811370292864222012-09-06T22:53:00.000-07:002012-09-06T22:53:00.257-07:00 <IMG vspace=4 src="/koonsbmwnorvege.jpg" width=628 height=342> <P>BMW isn't saying exactly why it put the M3 GT2 Art Car done by Jeff Koons atop Norway's 640-meter-high (2,112 feet) Preikestolen (Pulpit Rock), but it did. There's said to be some connection to Edvald Munch's painting The Scream</EM>, but things are a bit fuzzy there (and Koons is American), and does there really need to be a reason anyway?</P><P>The racing coupe was on display in London during the Olympics, where BMW was the transport sponsor, so we suppose this is one way to top the quadrennial spectacle. While it would have been much simpler and far cheaper to drag out the green screen and video workstation, or Photoshop, or a matte painter, that's not the BMW way. So the real car was driven to a landing zone and a helicopter hauled the M3 to the top of the rock, where we suppose it can now stop pining for the fjords.</P><P>There's a video below with the action, and another here that the owner won't let us embed. </P><br /><p><a href="http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/05/watch-bmw-drop-a-priceless-art-car-onto-a-cliff/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-2390680527556054682012-09-06T19:41:00.000-07:002012-09-06T19:41:00.282-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>05 September 2012 05:01</P><P>Ford's sales chart-topping Fiesta supermini has been treated to its first mid-life set of tweaks. Chief among the changes are a new look for the car's nose, the choice of Ford's downsized 1.0-litre Ecoboost engine, and even more technology on board.</P><P>The new Fiesta will make its debut on Ford's Paris motor show stand in September 2012, and will trickle through to UK showrooms shortly after. There's no word on full prices and model specs yet.</P><P>The facelift is a predictable one - we've known the 'big mouth' trapezoidal front grille was coming, having seen it on the Fiesta ST show car at Geneva earlier in 2012. </P><P>The US-market Ford Fusion saloon (ostensibly our next Mondeo) also sports a similar arrangement. It's the latest evolution of Ford's 'Kinetic' design, and sports LED running lights and a more heavily contoured bonnet as well.</P><P>Certainly, the grille is bigger, but what lurks behind is actually downsized: facelifted Fiestas can be specced with Ford's Engine of the Year-winning Ecoboost motor. The tiny three-cylinder turbocharged unit displaces just 999cc but can return a claimed 56.5mpg in the bigger, heavier Focus family hatchback. Ford reckons the use of this frugal mill in the Fiesta will put it at the top of the supermini class for efficiency.</P><P>Meanwhile, the interior looks very similar to the old car, but withholds new tech talents, both on the safety and infotainment front.</P><P>There's been a definite focus on young drivers with the updates to the Fiesta. Ford's 'SYNC' interface allows users to select music or answer telephone calls on devices hooked up the car either by a USB lead, or wirelessly via Bluetooth. And, should you still manage to get distracted enough to take your eyes of the road while driving the new Fiesta, it'll stop itself if a low-speed collision is imminent, thanks to an active city braking system.</P><P>Even the key has a rather ingenious party pooper feature. Called 'MyKey', it's been available on US Fords for a while, but this is the first time we've seen it on a Blue Oval on this side of the Atlantic. </P><P>The idea is to allow parents to programme their children's car keys to only allow driving up to a preset speed limit - even to set a maximum stereo volume - and disable the option of turning off driver aids and drving sans</EM> seatbelt.</P><P><STRONG>>> Would Ford's MyKey system appeal to you, or should younger drivers be trusted with greater independence? Tell us your opinion in the comments.</EM></STRONG></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Ford-Fiesta-facelift-2012-first-offical-pictures/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-70240095244056971142012-09-06T16:14:00.000-07:002012-09-06T16:14:00.079-07:00 <IMG id=ctl00_placeHolderContainer_placeHolderMainContent_placeHolderColumn02_placeHolderColumn02Body_ctl00_ArticleBody_ctl00_ctlSingleImage_imgSingleImage class=mainImage alt="Spot the P12 McLaren supercar cues!" src="/macca.jpg"> Spot the P12 McLaren supercar cues! </P>By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>05 September 2012 16:45</P><P>Here we have the very first official McLaren teaser shot of the Woking brand's upcoming flagship hybrid supercar, codenamed P12.</P><P>The picture may appear nothing more than a colourful light show, but we can spot certain elements of the P12's styling. Don't worry - CAR has a handful of tech details behind the new Brit supercar as well.</P><P>Believe it or not, there is a car lurking in the picture, boasting some noticeable McLaren design cues. </P><P>Around the top corner of the headlight on the right of the shot (the car's left cluster) we can see the McLaren logo-aping light design that's familiar from the MP4-12C. Lower down, there's an aggressive front splitter and a reinterpretation of the 12C's front bumper. </P><P>Unlike the McLaren supercar we all know so well, the brake cooling ducts under the headlights are much more sharply styled - no soft curves and friendly face here. </P><P>McLaren is responding to criticism of the 12C for looking a touch unexciting (compared to Ferraris and Lamborghinis) and the P12 is the perfect canvas upon which to redraw McLaren's image.</P><P>Aesthetics are the jurisdiction of Frank Stephenson, who also did the modern Mini and Fiat 500. However, the P12 will be anything but retro, save perhaps for the Zagato-style double-bubble roof profile just visible in this teaser sketch. Why the contoured roof? To allow for a centre snorkel engine air intake, just like the world-beating McLaren F1 of the 1990s. </P><P>Because the MP4-12C's design was all but signed off by the time Stephenson joined the team, he could only make small tweaks to the car's neat but uninspiring profile. The P12 is a clean sheet project for Frank, so the cab-forward bubble cockpit, wider flanks and ultra-low rear profile (a la Koenigsegg) will be far more radical. After all, a car with a cutting-edge powertrain deserves jaw-dropping looks...</P><P>Don't hold your breath for an F1-style normally aspirated V12 powerplant. Even the most exotic of super sports cars have to be seen to give a nod to ecological technology, but handily this plays right into the hands of the F1 link that McLaren lays on so thick. </P><P>So, expect a racing car KERS married to the MP4-12C's 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8, currently good for 616bhp, but tuneable for even more power for its P12 role.</P><P>The hybrid boost button will liberate up to 200bhp extra, giving the P12 potentially Veyron-matching acceleration, while remaining rear-wheel drive. With Porsche and Ferrari also plotting hybrid hypercars, a new dawn of super performance cars could be approaching.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/McLaren-P12-supercar-2012-first-teaser-shot/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-61274662820509264482012-09-06T13:08:00.000-07:002012-09-06T13:08:00.465-07:00 PAAdam says </P><P>I admit that the choice of names for Opels/Vauxhalls strikes slightly peculiar but I don't really care as long as they are beautiful to look at and engaging when driven.  Thank you for this surprise new car.</P><P>06 September 2012 06:12</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Vauxhall-Cascada-2012---first-photos-of-new-cabrio/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-14758777490174727062012-09-06T08:43:00.000-07:002012-09-06T08:43:00.442-07:00 By Ollie Kew</P>First Official Pictures</P>04 September 2012 20:30</P><P>This is the new, seventh-generation Volkswagen Golf. Although very similar-looking to the outgoing car, the new Golf Mk7 is bigger, lighter, easier to produce and much more efficient. </P><P>It sounds like a win-win for VW and consumers. But is it? Read on for the full details of the new 2013 Volkswagen Golf hatchback.</P><P>Yes, this is indeed the brand new car to take the Golf into its seventh generation. VW obviously think it wise not to interfere too much with the Golf's inoffensive, timeless styling, and design boss Walter de Silva is adamant that's the right tactic: 'One of the keys to the Golf’s success lies in its continuity. There are a handful of cars with a design that, like the Golf’s, has been refined, tweaked and enhanced down the decades and thus become timeless.’</P><P>Sounds to us like de Silva's likening the Golf to that other evolutionary German automotive icon - the Porsche 911. Still, whatever you think of the styling - do tell us in the comments below - there's no denying the Golf has been thoroughly overhauled under the skin.</P><P>Most certainly, though it's by no means bespoke to the 2013 VW Golf. In fact, we've already sampled the MQB architecture in the new Audi A3, and it'll see duty in other VW Group products like the Seat Leon, mid-sized Skodas and other Audis, too. </P><P>Not only does this save VW heaps in building outlay, but it means all the cars share the same safe, light structure - the platform is stronger, yet 23kg lighter than before. As a whole, the new Golf has shed 100kg versus the previous model, despite the body expanding by 56mm in length and 13mm in width. The wheelbase has been stretched by 59mm, meaning more rear legroom. Moreover, the diet helps towards a purported 23% improvement in efficiency. </P><P>All the 2013 Golf's engines are new, too, and come with stop/start and battery regeneration systems.  At launch, the petrol engines are an 84bhp 1.2-litre (good for around 57.6mpg and 113g/km), and a 1.4-litre 138bhp unit with Active Cylinder Technology, which can deactivate two of the cylinders. Other cars boasting cylinder deactivation in the VW stable include the Bentley Continental GT V8 and Audi S8, but neither of them will match the Golf's estimated 58.9 mpg and 112g/km...</P><P>Prefer your Golf with a diesel engine? From launch you can choose from a 104bhp 1.6-litre (capable of 74.3 mpg and 99g/km, says VW), and a more powerful 148bhp 2.0-litre. The pokier diesel is slightly less efficient, with VW's claims pegging it at 68.9mpg and 106g/km.</P><P>Although the quality is naturally impressive, what is new (or rather, old) is the switch back to a driver-oriented centre console, as last seen on the Mk4 Golf. All Golf models get a touchscreen interface, starting in the UK with a 5.8-inch colour display standard on every model. </P><P>Spec the range-topper and you'll get a sat-nav system built into a fulsome eight-inch colour display. The usual iPod and phone connectivity features too, and a DAB digital radio.</P><P>You can cast your eye over the all-new Golf when it takes the stand at the 2012 Paris motor show later this month. Prices are yet to be announced, but we'll have more details when the car goes on sale in October 2012. Expect them to closely shadow today's model, starting around £16,000.</P><P>UK deliveries of the new Volkswagen Golf Mk7 will begin from January 2013.</P><P><STRONG>>> Does</EM></STRONG> <STRONG>the new VW Golf advance the hatchback game enough, or do you prefer the conservative approach after all? Tell us in the comments below</STRONG></EM></P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/VW-Golf-2013-first-official-pics-/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-61760251472644228972012-09-06T04:10:00.000-07:002012-09-06T04:10:00.216-07:00 By Ben Pulman</P>Used Cars</P>04 September 2012 12:01</P><P>Like the RS2, the first RS4 was available only as an Avant. This time Quattro didn’t call on Porsche, but although much of the r&d was completed in-house, Cosworth Technology (then owned by Audi) was enlisted to upgrade the S4’s engine – it redesigned the cylinder head and fitted larger turbos to liberate 113bhp and 30lb ft more. It’s quicker than a same-era M3, the bi-turbo V6 is less laggy than its predecessor and makes a plethora of GT-R-like noises.</P><P>And if the RS2 is a Dr Frankenstein’s amalgam of Audi and Porsche parts, the RS4 is more cohesive – but also more aggressive, even in yellow. The arches bulge, the sills are thick, and the sides of the optional fixed-back buckets are so high that it’s harder to squeeze between them and the Alcantara wheel than it is to buy tickets to the Olympics. But dated sat-nav graphics aside, the RS4 still feels modern inside and the enduring quality shows where Audi founded its reputation for Stella Artois interiors.</P><P>The oily bits are built to last too, according to Fontain Motors. Check the suspension, look for dash warning lights that could spell trouble from the secondary air pumps and exhaust gas temperature sensors, and that’s about it. One infamous fault is the ‘soft’ alloys: some deformed on UK roads but Audi introduced a harder compound in 2002. </P><P>Only 532 Mk1 RS4s came to the UK, but there are a few leggy cars for under £10k and a good selection in the low teens. Just watch for modified cars as the turbo engine lends itself to tuning.</P><BR><P><STRONG>Engine</STRONG> 2671cc 30v twin-turbo V6, 375bhp @ 6100-7000rpm, 325lb ft @ 2500-6000rpm <STRONG>Trans</STRONG> 6-spd manual, 4wd <STRONG>Performance</STRONG> 4.9sec 0-62mph, 155mph (limited), 17.0mpg <STRONG>Original UK price</STRONG> (2000) £46,500  </P><P><STRONG>One we found</STRONG> RS4 Avant, 2000, 94k miles, Avus Silver, 2 owners, Audi FSH, sat-nav, heated and electric black leather Recaros. Trade £11,500</P><BR>Rate this article...Average rating: <IMG title="Rated 4 out of 5" alt="Rated 4 out of 5" src="/ratingstarsuser8.gif">4 (1 votes) <br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/Search-Results/First-drives/Used-cars-how-to-buy-a-second-hand-Audi-RS4-Avant-2000-20012/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-53524036299197665462012-09-05T23:16:00.000-07:002012-09-05T23:16:00.183-07:00 <IMG alt="reward badge" src="/icongold.gif"></P>Brand0 says </P><P> And here I present to you a variation on Bangle's (BMW's) flame surfacing of a decade ago. Take-dah!</P><P>05 September 2012 00:29</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Mercedes-Aesthetics-S-sculpture-2012-previews-S-class/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-32473423967102496612012-09-05T19:42:00.000-07:002012-09-05T19:42:00.100-07:00 <IMG id=ctl00_placeHolderContainer_placeHolderMainContent_placeHolderColumn02_placeHolderColumn02Body_ctl00_ArticleBody_ctl00_ctlSingleImage_imgSingleImage class=mainImage alt="Ford's Focus is now the best selling car the world over" src="/focus01.jpg"> Ford's Focus is now the best selling car the world over </P>By Ollie Kew</P>Motor Industry</P>04 September 2012 10:32</P><P>Ford's Focus has overtaken the Toyota Corolla in the sales charts. Unremarkable, you might say? Not when you realise this is the global sales mantle, making the Focus the best-selling car name on the planet in the first half of the year.</P><P>It's proof Ford's 'One Ford' gamble has paid off - to truly nail the 'world car' conundrum, streamlining production costs but still keeping consumers happy.</P><P>In the first six months of 2012, Ford shifted 489,616 Focus models worldwide. In comparison, the nearest competitor - Toyota's venerable Corolla - sold 462,187 examples.</P><P>What makes the feat more impressive is that the Blue Oval only switched to its 'One Ford' programme a few years ago, with a view to streamlining its operations and building global models, rather than umpteen variants for bespoke markets. CEO Alan Mulally's mission when he joined Ford was to reduce the number of models sold globally from 97 to just 20. Click here for his explanation why.</P><P>The US Focus is near identical to that sold in Europe and elsewhere around the world, barring emissions regs, local legislation and the vagaries of global spec preferences.</P><P>So far, Ford has been racking up the big-number celebrations this year. Last week, Ford produced the 350 millionth vehicle in its history, at the Rayong plant in Thailand. The century-plus output is equivalent to turning out one vehicle every 10 seconds for 109 years, enough to stretch to the moon and back twice if parked end to end, says Ford proudly. </P><P>And in July 2012 Ford's Dagenham UK plant built its 40 millionth engine since operations began there in 1931.</P><P>Well, it's certainly a boon. But don't forget Ford is on track to lose $1 billion</EM> in Europe in 2012 - it's only keeping its head above water thanks to strong sales elsewhere in the world. But it makes you wonder about the state of the balance sheet if it hadn't embarked on its global harmonisation programme.</P><P>For CAR's review of the ultimate current Focus - the 247bhp ST - please click here.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/Industry-News/Ford-Focus-2012---the-best-selling-car-in-the-world/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-74086923297323635112012-09-05T15:06:00.000-07:002012-09-05T15:06:01.336-07:00 <IMG class="image image-news3 " title="2012 Camry Hybrid" alt="2012 Camry Hybrid" src="/2012CamryHybrid-side-atpark-500px-AOAnews3.jpg" width=250 height=200><P>The Camry is a well-appointed, comfortable ride and provides high luxury for its price point. The hybrid adds to this by putting Toyota's Hybrid Synergy Drive® under the hood, boosting fuel economy to excellent levels for a mid-sized sedan, though the Camry Hybrid is not without competition.</P><P>Over the past 25 years, Camry has won the loyalty of millions with its unique blend of efficiency, features, value and reliability. Now, with the 2012 Camry Hybrid LE delivering an estimated 43 city/39 highway/41 combined mpg, it’s more than just economical, it’s one of the most fuel-efficient sedans in its class. Plus, it achieves all that while producing 200 hp. Time to add even more Americans to its legion of enthusiasts — though gas station owners may be less than thrilled.</EM></P><STRONG>Manufacturer:</STRONG> Toyota<STRONG>Year, Model:</STRONG> 2012 Camry Hybrid XLE<STRONG>Class, Type:</STRONG> Mid-sized sedan<STRONG>Propulsion system:</STRONG> Gasoline-electric<STRONG>Fuel(s):</STRONG> Gasoline<STRONG>Base Price:</STRONG> $25,990 (LE)<STRONG>MSRP as tested:</STRONG> $34,547<STRONG>Availability:</STRONG><P>Nationally, now</P><P>The Camry is a highly comfortable car that drives smoothly, but without much pizazz. Compared to other mid-sized sedans in this class (VW Passat, Chevrolet Volt, Nissan Altima), it is an average ride with good handling and comfortable seating, but little "fun factor."</P><P>Still, Toyota managed to take the car up a notch by adding its Hybrid Synergy Drive®, utilizing a peppy 2.5-liter 4-cylinder DOHC and an electronically-controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (E-CVT) that gives a total of 200 horsepower. This translates to plenty of motoring power when speeding up for a merge, passing, etc.</P><P>For its class, the fuel efficiency in the Camry Hybrid is good at 40 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway (40 mpg average) – the lower-end LE model gets higher numbers at 43/39 (41 mpg average). During testing, we managed to average about 37 mpg in a mostly highway experience. </P><P>Like current-generation Toyota hybrids, the Camry can drive in full electric vehicle (EV) mode in town at low speeds and for short distances. Unlike smaller Toyotas like the Prius c, of course, the heavier Camry does so only up to about 20 miles per hour and for only about 3 miles at a time. Still, for a quick trip around the block to the grocery or drug store, and to get you out of the garage silently, that's a nice bonus.</P><P>The ride in the Camry is smooth and comfortable. The car aims for the middle market between the higher-priced (and more luxurious) Avalon and the lower priced (and less comfortable) Corolla. It hits the mark well and most drivers will thoroughly enjoy the comforts this sedan offers. Driving enthusiasts will not, however, find the Camry to be sporty or fun to drive. This is a car built to appeal to the masses and it does that very well.</P><P>Interior space is excellent in the Camry. The rear seats do fold down for access and the car easily accommodates two child safety seats with plenty of room to spare for a third passenger in the back. The trunk is roughly average in this class, being slightly smaller than the competing Volkswagen Passat and Nissan Altima, but adequate for most people's needs. Space would be equivalent, but the hybrid packs cut a full 2.3 cubic feet from the cargo area. </P><P>From the driver's perspective, seating is more than comfortable and the instruments and controls are intuitive and nicely laid out. </P><P><STRONG>Good economy at a fair price</STRONG>. The Camry Hybrid is at a good price point for the market and, with fittings included, competes with regular gasoline vehicles in this class. </P><P><STRONG>Great comfort level</STRONG> that competes with or exceeds others in this class. This is an "everyday" car and few will find it inadequate.</P><P><STRONG>MPG is good, but</STRONG> others at a similar or lower price point, namely the Volkswagen Passat TDI, are comparable and offer a better drive and somewhat higher level of luxury for about the same price point.</P><P><STRONG>Sluggish feel and rattling stop-start</STRONG> are noticeable in the Camry Hybrid. The car accelerates well, but feels sluggish compared to regular gas engine vehicles. The stop-start, because of the larger engine, announces itself with car body shaking as the engine fires up, which can require some getting used to.</P><P>Overall, while perhaps not the best vehicle in this class, the Camry is a hot seller for reasons that become obvious to anyone who sits in one. The hybrid is a great option for higher fuel efficiency and its price premium is not too steep compared to some. Those who drive primarily on highways at speed, however, may find better economy and pricing in a diesel vehicle.</P><P><STRONG>Test Period Length and Limitations</STRONG><BR>The 2012 Camry Hybrid XLE was loaned to us for 6 days, unrestricted. We racked over 450 miles in the vehicle, mostly in freeway driving, 250 miles of which were on a short road trip.</P><P>This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.</P><br /><p><a href="http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/futurecars/main/~3/RdYznSLIUyE/2012-camry-hybrid-comfort-and-class-with-a-hybrid-bonus" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3460829133549192550.post-86496062061875343292012-09-05T10:08:00.000-07:002012-09-05T10:08:00.241-07:00 By Gavin Green</P>Analysis</P>04 September 2012 09:00</P><P>Just back from Tanzania to watch the wildebeest migrate across the Serengeti and one of the highlights – along with the lounging lions, hyenas wandering into our camp, trumpeting elephants and stalking cheetah (not to mention numerous flights in little single-engine Cessnas from bush airstrips) – was our Toyota Land Cruiser safari vehicle. </P><P>The Land Cruiser is not really understood in Britain. It is too tough, too stark, to have successfully migrated from wilderness workhorse to Chelsea tractor. It just doesn’t have the manners of a Discovery 4, let alone the deportment of a Range Rover. Nor has it challenged the everyday Land Rover as favoured transport of our working farmers. But in its natural milieu – East Africa and Australia – it is a marvellous vehicle: tough, capable and endearingly dependable.</P><P>In Tanzania, the two most popular vehicles I saw to lug tourists on safari were the Land Cruiser and the Land Rover (Defender), the doyens of the 4x4 breed. I have spent many thousands of pleasurable (although not always comfortable) miles driving both – in Europe, Africa and Australia.</P><P>Our Tanzanian transport was a hardtop (with safari pop up roof) 70 series turbodiesel (an HJ75, for the Cruiser cognoscenti). Our driver and guide, George, said it was four years old. It was in fact nearer 24 years old, but while age may have withered its beauty and inflicted a few battle scars, it certainly had not dented its capability.</P><P>My fondness for the Land Cruiser can be traced back to happy boyhood experiences, as passions often are. In my case, it was driving a FJ40 two-door hardtop (beige with a white roof) almost 3000 miles through the Australian outback as a 16 year old, L-plates newly earned.  The 40 series Land Cruiser remains one of my all-time favourite vehicles. It is also, without doubt, one of the toughest cars ever made. That’s why Aussie outdoorsmen still love them.</P><P>I drove the latest UK-spec Land Cruiser a few months ago in Britain. Successive Land Cruisers have got bigger, heavier and – to my eyes, anyway – uglier. They’ve lost that design simplicity that so distinguished the 40 series (a lesson that I hope Land Rover notes as it seeks to replace the Defender). They have not kept abreast of the Discovery – once upon a time, a rival – in mechanical refinement, cabin trim quality or on-road performance. The Discovery can live happily on the tarmac, while excelling in the rough. Land Cruisers – even the posher versions – always feel like dusty outdoor adventurers, out of place in town. </P><P>Yet its undisguised toughness is its charm. It is an antidote to ‘crossovers’ and ‘soft roaders’ and all the other confused crossbreeds born from urban man’s unlikely love affair with street-biased SUVs, which the mass- and German luxury-makers now launch with tiresome regularity and mostly dire results. </P><P>The Land Cruiser, like the Land Rover Defender, is a 4x4, pure and simple. There’s a lot to be said for such honest, unpretentious, single-minded cars.</P><br /><p><a href="http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Community/Car-Magazines-Blogs/Gavin-Green-Blog/Gavin-Green-on-the-indestructible-charm-of-the-Toyota-Land-Cruiser/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">View the original article here</a></p><br />This post was made using the <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org/auto-blogging-software.html' title='auto-blogging software'>Auto Blogging Software</a> from <a href='http://www.webmagnates.org' title'make money online'>WebMagnates.org</a> This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.masr 2011http://www.blogger.com/profile/04703711951636185670noreply@blogger.com0