Ride in Style

2009 Chevrolet TrailBlazer

2008-06-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

The Chevrolet TrailBlazer maintains a value-driven blend of uniqueness, standard comfort, convenience and safety features. The lineup is topped by the performance-bred TrailBlazer SS that brings car performance combined with the function of a sports utility vehicle. It also includes the LT model powered by the efficient 4.2L six-cylinder.

The TrailBlazer offers a generous cargo room, meaning an 80 cubic feet with the rear seat folded, and great towing power – 5,900 pounds with the 6-cylinder and 6,800 pounds with the SS’s 6.0L V-8.

This new TrailBlazer features the standard XM Satellite Radio and head curtain side air bags, new features OnStar 8.0 with available Bluetooth connectivity for safer, hands-free phone calls, and latest exterior colors: Silver Ice Metallic, Silver Moss Metallic and Sand Beige Metallic. The 2LT models include a chrome luggage rack, door handles, 18-inch aluminum wheels as well as perforated leather seating with heated, power-adjustable driver and front passenger seats with memory feature.

The 2009 TrailBlazer models include air conditioning, dual-zone climate control, XM Satellite Radio, power locks and windows, and remote keyless entry. Available options are power sunroof, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, Bose premium speaker system, adjustable brake and accelerator pedals, rearview mirror with temperature gauge and compass, leather seating surfaces with eight-way-power driver and passenger seats, sunroof, and both factory- and dealer-installed running boards. Available entertainment and information features also include a navigation radio that incorporates a dash-mounted GPS system and display with the vehicle’s sound system.

The engine is still the prized Vortec 4.2L I-6 that generates 285 horsepower and 276 lb.-ft. of torque. Synchronized voltage control improves fuel economy by minimizing the load on the engine created by the alternator. The Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission matches the engine.

TrailBlazer uses hydroformed steel frame side rails that form a strong foundation. A double A-arm suspension is used in the front work with a system of 12 specially-tuned body mounts. A thick stabilizer bar minimizes body roll.

The rear suspension features a solid axle with 5-link location, with a stabilizer bar. A 113-inch wheelbase stretches between the wheels. A rack-and-pinion steering system responds quickly to driver inputs and delivers good feedback. StabiliTrak electronic stability control system and GM’s tire pressure monitoring system come standard on all models. StabiliTrak helps to maintain control during sudden maneuvers or low-traction conditions. Large, low-drag front disc/rear drum brakes with standard ABS provide confident stopping power.

Head curtain side air bags inflate from the roof rail between the A-pillar and side window header. They deploy in certain moderate to severe side impacts, help provide protection for front and second-row outboard passengers. The head curtain side air bags feature an integral rollover protection sensing system that helps protect occupants in a rollover event by triggering both the side curtain air bags and safety belt pretensioners. The rollover-sensing module uses an intricate algorithm, roll rate and vehicle speed to know whether to deploy the safety systems. Also standard are pretensioners in the outboard front safety belt system that deploy at the same time as the frontal air bags to fill the slack in the seat belt.

Additional TrailBlazer safety features are 3-point safety belts in all seating positions, dual-stage frontal air bags, GM’s Passenger Sensing System (PSS), push-pull power window switches, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children or LATCH system for child safety seats and improved passenger seat belt reminder system.
All 2009 TrailBlazer models come with OnStar 8.0. The service includes the Advanced Crash Response System Crash system, making crash data available to the participating 911 centers in order to help them send out the appropriate life-saving personnel and equipment to crash scenes quicker.

2009 Buick Enclave

2008-06-17T01:06:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Buick Enclave was first introduced in 2007. Buick Enclave goes between SUV and luxury sedan - SUV capability and ride quality and sedan fuel economy. It combines elegance and precision. It will be available in CX and CXL models with front-wheel.

Its 3.6L engine is about power, efficiency, sophistication and smoothness. The 3.6L direct injection V-6 VVT engine will provide 288 horsepower and 270 lb.ft. of torque. It will run with unleaded gasoline. It also uses unique pistons with the direct injection system that helps reduce cold-start emissions by 25%. Also included are acoustically tuned engine cover, intake manifold, center-feed fuel lines and a new engine mount system for reduced vibration.

The new engine is matched to the Hydra-Matic 6T75 electronically controlled 6-speed automatic transmission. It features clutch-to-clutch shift operation, allowing minimized complexity and compact packaging. It also offers automatic grade braking, shift stabilization and precise shift control. It has been designed so that the Enclave can be flat-towed in FWD and AWD configurations. The Enclave can tow up to 4,500 pounds when correctly outfitted.

Likewise featured are heated and cooled leather seats. Bluetooth for Phone hands-free phone interface comes on all Enclave models plus, integrated steering wheel controls. Also included is the NavTraffic, delivering real-time traffic information to the touch-screen navigation system. All entertainment packages add a 110-volt inverter, enabling customers to power portable electric plug-in items. Other standard comfort and convenience features are sliding front-row center console armrest, One-touch power liftgate, tire pressure monitoring system, tri-zone climate control, Smart Slide second-row seat, and more.

The exterior shows a waterfall grille – with a daring tri-shield emblem and V-shaped portholes, HID headlamps are standard. Two new exterior colors are available for 2009 – Silver Green Metallic and Quicksilver Metallic. The interior matches the gorgeous exterior with luxuriously premium, soft-touch, low-gloss equipment. It has three rows of seats that comfortably accommodate seven to eight occupants while providing more cargo space behind the third-row seat.

Enclave is the sole crossover equipped with QuietTuning – aimed at reducing, blocking and absorbing unwanted noise from entering its cabin. Noise-reducing components are acoustic-laminated windshield, laminated safety glass for front doors, triple door seals, flat-blade windshield wipers, outside rearview mirrors, deliberately placed sound-deadening material.

Its AWD system improves both dry road handling and provides increased traction on wet, snow- and ice-covered roads. It delivers a controlled quantity of torque to the rear wheels. No driver intervention is needed – the system automatically knows how to distribute torque based on velocity, throttle position and individual wheel slip. The system includes Enclave’s electronic traction control to provide outstanding competence during rough weather.

Safety features include 4-wheel anti-lock brakes, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology, tire pressure monitoring system, traction control, air bags – two dual-stage frontal air bags, two seat-mounted side-impact air bags in the first row and two roof rail air bags that cover all three seating rows. Matching the air bags is the rollover sensing system that operates the roof rail air bags when sensors identify an impending rollover. The safety belt pretensioners during a crash take up slack in the safety belt and hold passengers in place. Also included are Panic Brake Assist feature. When emergency braking maneuver is detected, the system automatically releases extra brake pressure to more quickly engage ABS, reducing stopping distance by eliminating the delay that can happen if a driver does not brake hard enough soon. All Buicks, including Enclave, are equipped with OnStar that features the Advanced Crash Response System. If a crash activates an air bag, the OnStar system automatically notifies an OnStar advisor, who immediately calls the vehicle or asks for help.

Glimpse of the 2011 Acura RL

2008-06-14T01:11:00.000-07:00

Perhaps the Acura RL is the brand’s way of getting serious into entering the large-car luxury game with this new version of its segment-topping sedan. The newest shots of what is likely the 2011 RL looks like it confirms the rumors, rumors that Honda will ditch the long-running front-wheel-drive layout to compete with its peer class such as the BMW 5 series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Although much is hidden by the stretched-out TSX bodywork, a close look at the profile exhibits a longer hood with the front wheels moved farther forward, which not only enhances the vehicle's looks with less front overhang but also points out that the engine may be longitudinally installed.

Considering the fact that RWD architecture seems progressive for the next RL, we can also hope that the rumored V8 engine could be underhood. Previous reports told its output at 420 horsepower, which should be matched with cylinder deactivation in an effort to keep fuel economy adequate. With gas prices, I think buyers and enthusiasts would not be surprised to see Acura retain a V6 engine as standard, leaving the 8-cylinder as an alternative.

Renault: To produce a sports car by 2011 (truth?)

2008-06-14T01:06:00.001-07:00

It has been over a decade since the celebrated Renault tuner got washed out into shadows. But now, the Alpine brand may return by 2011 with the help of both Nissan and Renault. According to information, Renault product planners are critically investigating a low-cost, high-performance sports car to carry the Alpine symbol Expect the new car to be a close contender to the Mazda MX-5, although with more power and a little higher cost.
Though previous Alpine-Renaults used a rear-engine draft, looks like the new car is set to employ its motor in front. The car won't be a clone of the Nissan 370Z, according to sources, yet it may employ a number of parts on an all-new platform. Well, the design isn't unlike Nissan's Urge, an RWD roadster concept which launched at the 2006 Detroit auto show. Smaller than the 350Z and sized closer to the MX-5, the Urge still used a number of 350Z components to minimize cost, plausibly.

Unveiling the car would grant Renault its first ever sports car since the downfall of the unusual Renault Sport Spider. So, expect to have a full glimpse the new Alpine launch probably between 2010 and 2011, with a possible Nissan-badged version - suggested to be a 200SX successor.

2009 Focus RS for Europe

2008-06-14T00:46:00.000-07:00

Are you anticipating the return of the Focus RS? Waiting is over. But let’s not talk about the launch first. Prior to the 2008 British Motor Show, Ford released official "spy" photos of the hot hatch. The RS models were not seen since 2003. It vanished when Ford launched an all-new European Focus in 2004. Although a performance-tuned ST model is currently offered, the new Focus RS is including more performance into the 3-door hatch.

The car looks like the Focus ST coupe, but select cues set the performance-tuned RS apart from lesser trims. And notice the oversized wheel flares wrapped around big-diameter rolling stock. The front fascia – well, it looks like a Focus. Is that an intercooler prowling behind a big grille opening.

For now, Ford has not spoken about yet, but source said the RS will use a customized form of the 2.5-liter turbocharged inline 5-cylinder found in the Focus ST. Ford also suggests that in RS form, the motor will produce more than 276 hp and 295 lb-ft of
torque.

Although the RS goes on the same segment as Subaru's Impreza WRX STI or the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, I think people are not into looking for AWD Focus soon. The RS will deliver power through the front wheels, aided by a limited-slip differential and by suspension tuned on the Ring. Know more about the RS when the car makes its debut in London in July.

2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

2008-06-12T01:08:00.000-07:00

This isn’t just about hybrid vehicle, this is about the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Yes, it’s the new Escalade – a new vehicle that brings an improved fuel economy while maintaining the potentials and features of a full-size, V-8-powered SUV. This mismatched duality is enabled by GM’s original 2-Mode Hybrid system.

The 2-Mode Hybrid system uses a new, electrically variable transmission (EVT) that offers these two – real SUV capability and fuel economy. The two modes: first, an incessantly variable operation for low-load driving situations and two, a fixed-gear operation for high-load conditions such as highway driving and towing.

Basing on experience gleaned in the development of hybrid bus propulsion systems, GM designed the two-mode EVT to bring the best combination of highway and city fuel economy; it is used in unison with the 6.0L Gen IV V-8 engine with Active Fuel Management. The EVT is designed to bolt directly to the standard 4-wheel-drive transfer case found on the gasoline-only models for true 4-wheel-drive capability.

The Escalade Hybrid’s drivetrain is made up of the Electrically Variable Transmission (EVT), Energy Storage System (ESS), Vortec 6.0L Gen IV V-8 with Active Fuel Management (AFM) and late-intake valve closing (LIVC) – all of which work together to provide seamless, economical and comfortable operation
The assembly of two 60-kW electric motors, 3 planetary gear sets and 4 traditional hydraulic wet clutches that allow constant variable operation and provide 4 fixed gear ratios. The design was chosen due to the operational characteristics of electric motors, which are very efficient at low speeds. The EVT can activate any of its four hydraulic clutches to allow power transfer through the fixed-gear ratios whenever higher load conditions occur. The EVT is like having two transmissions in one – incessantly variable drive for light-load conditions and fixed-ratio drive for high-load situations.

Providing power to the EVT’s two electric motors is a 300-volt nickel-metal hydride known as the Energy Storage System (ESS). This battery pack is found below the second-row seat, where it takes up virtually no additional space and does not interfere with second- or third-row ingress/egress. It is there to provide power (300 volts) to the EVT through the Traction Power Inverter Module (TPIM) and to store captured energy produced during regenerative braking. The ESS can also be charged, when necessary, by the gasoline engine through one of the two electric motors when operated in generator mode. It also provides power to the air conditioning compressor and the Accessory Power Module (APM) that converts the high-voltage supply to 42 volts for the electric power steering system, and 12 volts for the vehicle battery and other 12-volt electrical accessories.

The 2009 Escalade Hybrid features fully blended regenerative braking to capture energy that could be lost during vehicle deceleration. By using one or both of the EVT’s traction motors as a generator, braking energy is converted to electrical energy and stored in the ESS for future use to propel the vehicle. The regenerative braking has the additional benefit of extending the life of the friction materials used in the hydraulic braking system, and enhancing braking performance through shorter stopping distances.

Its 6.0L V-8 engine comes exclusive. It features Active Fuel Management and late intake valve closing for minimized pumping losses and better fuel economy. The engine uses flat-top pistons, cylinder heads and a 10.8:1 compression ratio, generating as mush as 332 horsepower and 367 lb.-ft. torque. A top contributor to its fuel economy potential is the engine’s Auto Stop mode. When the vehicle reaches 0 mph, the gasoline engine is automatically shut down. But when extra power is needed, the V6.0L V-8 faultlessly restarts to carry on with the goal of utmost fuel economy, especially now that the fuel price is not getting any lower.
Essentially, this entry only tackled about the Hybrid aspect of the 2009 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid. Perhaps on my next entries, I can include the details, exterior and interior. Watch out for it.

2009 Volvo XC60

2008-06-12T01:01:00.001-07:00

Looking for an all-new crossover to drive? Here is one crossover from Volvo that is set to launch in 2009 – the 2009 Volvo XC60. This coupe is stepping daringly into what is currently the automotive world's fastest-growing division – clad in a breathtaking combination of beefy XC (crossover) competence and the sporty charm of a coupe. According to the Volvo Cars President and CEO, it is not just the safest Volvo to drive as it also the most stunning ever.

The 2009 XC60 was launched during at the Geneva Motor Show in March. The "Small Premium Utility" division is escalating fast. In the coming years, buyers will have at least 10 crossover prototypes to select from. By next year, this division is expected to expand by 75%. Yes, that’s fast it growing and it’s no joke.

The CEO added that to be successful in that kind of competition, you need to come up with a vehicle that truly stick out from the rest. That’s definitely true. The 2009 Volvo XC60 bases its distinctive characteristics on the fusion between daringly sporty design and a range of intelligent safety systems that help the driver avoid accidents.

What’s so new about the XC60? Here it is Volvo lovers out there. It’s about safety and when you mention safety, well, it’s something you really want to pay attention to. So what exactly am I talking about? It’s regarding the City Safety. This is a distinct system that can help the driver reduce, if not prevent, the effects of the type of low-speed impacts which are common on the road, so I say. Once the car is about to strike the vehicle in front and the driver does not react, the car mechanically applies the brakes.

Based from the things revealed by the CEO, Volvo is the first automaker in the world to offer this type of feature as standard. City Safety clearly signals that the new XC60 is the safest car Volvo has ever created. The car is packed with Volvo’s collected safety know-how and technology, both intended to prevent accidents and protect all the occupants in a collision.

The new XC60 will be available in the U.S. with Volvo's 6-cylinder turbocharged T6 engine producing 281 horsepower. All Wheel Drive (AWD) with Instant Traction is fitted as standard on all variations.

Basing to its compact dimensions - the XC60 is 7.9” shorter than the XC70 and lower than the XC90, thus continuing the range of slimmed-down Volvo cars with high energy efficiency. Volvo engineers designed the XC60's chassis settings for assertive sporty handling that endorses a feeling of control and safety. Plus, the suspension has been tuned to provide a smooth and comfortable ride befitting a luxury crossover.

The 2009 Volvo XC60 is aiming a certain group of customers who require high demands on brand integrity, design and high-tech content in its choice of lifestyle products. When it comes to the choice of a car, these consumers adopt the same view as they do for other lifecycle products - all of its properties should be integrated into one single attractive and intelligent package. But of course!

So what about when the XC60 starts rolling out of the gate? Well, according to Volvo, the sales target for the new XC60 is 50,000 units annually. Distribution between Europe and North America is the same: about 40%. The remaining 20% is set for other global markets. Here are the 5 biggest markets comes 2010: Germany, Great Britain, Russia and China and the U.S. Sales will start in Europe during the fall of 2008, while sales in North America are targeted to begin in early 2009.

Lotus to release Lotus Clark Type-25 Elise SC in honor of legendary Jim Clark

2008-06-10T00:47:00.001-07:00

For the very first time, Lotus is releasing its first special edition of the award-winning Elise, nothing but the Clark Type 25 Elise SC. It is created in honor of legendary Formula 1 driver Jim Clark who died some decades ago at the Hockenheim circuit. The British Racing Green and yellow color combo was inspired by Clark's Type 25 F1 car in which he won the world championship back in 1963. Apart from the standard hardtop, black and silver Lotus racing wheels, black leather seats, red trim and wooden shift knob, it is the same Elise SC that is available overseas. There were no mechanical changes which were involved so that means that it is still releasing 218 hp and 156 lb.-ft. of torque from its supercharged 1.8-liter mounted amidships. In acknowledgment to Clark's racing number, Lotus is limiting the production of the special edition Elise SC to a mere 25 units and will only make the coupe available in Ireland and the United Kingdom.

2009 Cadillac XLR Roadster

2008-06-10T00:38:00.000-07:00

From its commencement four years ago, the XLR, Cadillac’s roadster, has been a spanking new face in the influential club of the world's best luxury roadsters. And now, Cadillac revealed the new 2009 edition of the XLR Roadster, with styling and model enhancements that exhibit spectacular design and technology.

This you must know: only the finest editions of Cadillac's retractable hardtop roadster will be offered in 2009, meaning the luxurious Cadillac XLR Platinum and the top-performance XLR-V. The XLR Platinum is loaded with a 320-horsepower 4.6L Northstar V-8 engine. The XLR-V, division of Cadillac's V-Series of high-performance models, is powered with a 443-horsepower 4.4L Supercharged Northstar V-8 engine.

The 2009 Cadillac roadster includes a new front face as well as a new rear outlook and new side fender vents. The modified design is inspired by the prized CTS sport sedan, transporting more detail and assertiveness to the XLR. The front also includes new fog lights and detailed upper and lower grilles for the Platinum and V-Series models. 2009 models feature a distinctive hood with a raised center section that was previously exclusive to the V-Series.

The ultra-luxury XLR Platinum model obtains added exterior identifiers, such as a modified rear fascia with more prominent new exhaust tips and a new 18-inch wheel design, in which painted wheel finish is standard and chrome comes as an option.
Get inside the 2009 XLR roadster and admire it for its luxurious and high-technology interior. A suede-like microfiber material from Alcantara is used for the headliner material, in either Cashmere or Ebony color. Also new is hand-cut and sewn leather used for the upper instrument panel. This hand-stitched and wrapped leather lends tailored sophistication to the cabin, representing Cadillac's new advancement into modern and elegant interior craftsmanship. The new cabin includes new instrument cluster trim rings and graphics, new wood grain trims and new metal trims.

Advanced technology has always been palpable in the XLR, and that legacy carries on in 2009. It includes the brand’s much-admired Magnetic Ride Control system and facilities such as Keyless Access with push-button start, DVD navigation and entertainment, heated and cooled seats, head-up display and heated steering wheel. It doesn’t end there. XLR's advanced technologies incorporate the Adaptive Forward Lighting that allows the headlamps to swivel together with the Adaptive Cruise Control and steering.

The 2009 Cadillac XLR is equipped with OnStar 8.0 with Bluetooth capability. The next-generation OnStar 8.0 system features improved hands-free voice commands, Emap powered by MapQuest as well as Turn by Turn navigation. This includes the industry-first Destination Download feature, in which directions can be downloaded from OnStar straight to the car's navigation system - doing away with the need to stop the car to manually enter a destination.

2009 Lincoln MKS

2008-06-06T21:33:00.000-07:00

The 2009 MKS is a flagship car from Lincoln. It places between the MKZ (Zephyr) sedan and the vintage Town Car. It sees the Cadillac STS, the Acura RL, and the Lexus GS as its rivals.

The double-wing grille is derived from the Lincoln MKR and inspired by the 1941 Continental. Bordered by standard HID headlamps, the grille is sure for future Lincolns. Ford's design chief said that the space between the two wings is the exact spot to display the Lincoln badge without competing with a grille behind. The frail horizontal bands below the grille are good-looking but are lined by large, odd-looking hollows that contain the fog lights. From the side, it is notable for its strong, chamfered shoulder line and stainless steel window surround that broadens into a dramatic flourish as it meets the C-pillar. The space on the front fenders behind the wheels is adorned with the Lincoln badge rather than the vents we often see.

The rear’s elegant but plain portion will make you notice the strips of stainless steel that run from the A-pillars, over the car's roof, and down to the trunk lid. The LED taillights are accented by a vertical white light strip that contains the turn signal indicators that look pretty cool when lighted. Depending on trim level and options, the MKS is equipped either with standard eighteen-inch wheels or optional 19 or 20” wheels.

Lincoln takes pride in an inclusive and luxurious interior. The fresh telematics feature is either standard or optional. It includes a state-of-the-art navigation system with traffic reports from Sirius Satellite Radio. The push-button-entry returned but instead of buttons, the heat-sensitive, backlit numerals integrated into the B-pillar are added.

The instrument panel is trimmed in either in ebony, olive ash or genuine aluminum. Leather is supplied by Bridge of Weir. It has a slightly richer hand feel than the plasticized leather, although but it doesn’t have much of that lovely leather on most luxury cars. Heated and cooled front and rear seats are available. The primary gauges are nicely lit though boring. The center armrest is split into two sections that move individually with the driver's right elbow and the front passenger's left elbow.
The optional, 600-watt, sixteen-speaker THX II 5.1 surround sound stereo is absolutely superb, and the interface for controlling it through the high-resolution navigation screen is top-notch. Ford's Sync system, which allows you to control an iPod or any other MP3 music player and a Bluetooth cell phone through voice activation, is standard. The Sirius Travel Link system can also provide nearby gas-station prices, movie listings, sports scores, and other real-time information through the navigation screen, which is the virtual command center of the vehicle. The cabin is well-insulated from road noise, and the seats are comfortable and supportive.

The engine is a 3.7-liter derivation of the 3.5-liter V-6. The 3.7-liter is exclusive to the MKS, where it makes 273 hp and 265 lb-ft torque. With 340 hp and 340 lb-ft of torque but an estimated 23 mpg on the freeway, it will be the first offering under Ford's new "EcoBoost" powertrain program. Stability control is standard.

It is started with a push button. The 3.7-liter V-6 then springs to life with a nice chafe. Draw the gearshift lever into Drive, and you're off. There are no shifter paddles or newfangled gearchanging devices yet MKS owners can make the most of the 3.7-liter V-6 and its 6-speed automatic transmission. The MKS delivers a firm, well-controlled ride. Steering effort is not too high and the steering is precise if not overly unrestrained. Upon open stretch of twisty road, you can select the SelectShift mode and have a reasonably entertaining romp it’s considerably weighty – all-wheel drive adds about 150 pounds. The brake pedal is sappy when you're stomping on it, though it's fine in normal use. Though ride comfort is pretty good, the 20” wheels cannot hush up freeway expansion joints.

A 2009 BMW 7-series to come out in July: Is there a truth to this?

2008-06-05T00:33:00.000-07:00

So is there truth to the rumor that the next generation BMW 7-series flagship sedan is coming out on July 7th? Well, here are a handful of details from BMW. Two, twin-turbocharged engines will be available: a V12 and the V8 currently found in the X6, with power being sent to the rear wheels through an eight-speed transmission. Four-wheel steering will be an alternative, along with all-wheel-drive later on. An enhanced iDrive interface, Dynamic Performance Control and ConnectDrive will complete its features along with most of the technical changes inside. The new 7's interior will apparently mark the return of the driver-oriented controls of yore, with a center console canted in to face the person behind the wheel. A source further added that the V8 model will be sporting a pair of square tailpipes while the higher-end edition will have four squared tips. Plus, BMW will offer four new colors for the 2009 7-series - Imperial Blue, Mineral Whit, Cashmere Silver and Sophisto Grey. As I’ve said, that’s just a handful details. So well see.

2009 Hummer H3T

2008-06-05T00:17:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Hummer H3T truck is the H3 SUV with a 22-inch longer wheelbase and a 5-foot pickup bed behind the rear seats. The upshot is a lovely big truck that is a little shorter than the Chevy Avalanche.

It will keep running with its engine that is the same as for the H3 SUV. Oh well, it’s just sad that the pickup's additional 150 pounds will make the H3T slower than it has to be. A sluggish and long-geared 4-speed automatic spays the 242-hp five-cylinder as well as the 300-hp V-8. You can get a 5-speed manual with the smaller engine, but the thing is that few SUV owners opt for it.

But here’s a little secret filled in by none other than Hummer product director Ross Hendrix. He divulged that the much-despised in-line 5-cylinder will be going away, at long last. The direct-injection 3.6-liter V-6 will now take its place, finally. More importantly, this new V-6 and the V-8 both will get a 6-speed automatic. E85 fuel capability is not forgotten. But while all of them are pretty pleasing to us now, we will still have to wait until the 2010 model year for the change. Why say that now when the change is not due anytime soon?

The truck featured an optional off-road adventure package – 33-inch tires, different shocks, a revised low-range transfer case, and the secret weapon for rock crawling: locking front and rear differentials. Upon road test in Moab, Utah along Hell’s Revenge road, no sheer rock face, deep hole, or collection of boulders could stop the H3T. Well done. Only that not many people go through Hell's Revenge roads and with growing concerns regarding fuel economy, it’s time for GM's most rugged brand to consider how it will move ahead. For now, prospective H3T buyers who want a rock-crawling, mud-slinging pickup but who intend to spend most of their time on pavement would do well to wait for the new V-6 and the more modern 6-speed.

More than any other concerns, Hummer is critically looking at diesel power for the H3 and the H3T. Markets outside of U.S. will get an Italian-sourced, 2.8-liter turbo-diesel, but that engine cannot simply meet U.S. emissions standards. GM has a new V-6 diesel that will be used for both the Cadillac CTS and the upcoming Saab 9-5 in Europe. Hummer is looking at using this engine in the States. The H3T may ride better because of its longer wheelbase, but the dead steering, outdated transmission, and secondary chassis vibrations obviously show that there are better options if you are looking for on-road performance.

2010 Cadillac Provoq

2008-06-04T01:02:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Cadillac Provoq is a concept luxury crossover utility vehicle or CUV from General Motors. It was revealed in January this year. It was launched at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. It is powered by the plug-in hybrid technology. For extended range, a hydrogen fuel cell will recharge the Lithium-ion battery and a solar panel will power the onboard accessories, including the interior lighting and the audio system. As the Provoq concept uses a hybrid powertrain it is based on the same GM E-Flex platform as the Chevrolet Volt.

While the name will stay the same, the vehicle will be entirely new with a FWD platform shared with Saab that replaces the current RWD Sigma one that also underpins the CTS and STS. The production vehicle was originally to be called the Cadillac BRX replacing the Cadillac SRX, but changes were made. Instead, Cadillac will introduce an all new SRX based on the Provoq. If you're a big fan of the current Cadillac SRX, you'll be happy to know that the name will remain past 2010 when Cadillac's first CUV is replaced by the production version of the Provoq concept. Engines are said to be a base 2.8L V6 and the direct-inject 3.6L powerplant tuned to around 300 ponies. The new platform will also give GM the opportunity to use technology like its plug-in two-mode system in future Cadillacs without the need to re-engineering it from the ground up.

2009 Hyundai Genesis

2008-06-04T00:54:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Genesis is built on Hyundai’s all-new, performance-driven rear-wheel-drive structural design, with an advanced 5-link suspension at its four corners. It provides two powertrains, the 290-horsepower Lambda 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to an Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission and the all-new Tau 4.6-liter V8 engine matched to a ZF 6-speed automatic transmission from Hyundai. Both of them bring exceptional fuel economy. The Tau generates 375 horsepower using premium fuel and 368 horsepower using regular unleaded, leading all competitors in precise output, while also outperforming V8 performance sedans with an expected fuel economy. Genesis 3.8 pulls off EPA fuel economy too which outperforms the V6 engines in many smaller, mid-size cars on the highway. Competing more expensive luxury sedans, Genesis showcases features such as XM NavTraffic, Adaptive Front Lighting System, Lexicon audio systems and electronic active head restraints.

Standard on the Genesis 3.8 models are a 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine, Aisin 6-speed automatic transmission with ShiftronicTM, Electronic Stability Control with traction control, Anti-lock Braking System and 17-inch alloy wheels. Plus, advanced front airbags, front and rear seat-mounted side airbags, roof-mounted side curtain airbags, electronic front head restraints, fog lamps, automatic headlights, dual power heated side mirrors with turn signal indicators, leather seating surfaces with heated front seats, power seats, cruise control, Hyundai’s authentic white and blue interior lighting with electroluminescent cluster, proximity entry with electric push button start, leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel with audio controls, dual front fully automatic HVAC, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with Homelink and compass, AM/FM/CD/MP3/XM with iPod/USB and auxiliary input jacks, Bluetooth and floor mats.

On the other hand, the Genesis 4.6 are built on the standard equipment which are found on the Genesis 3.8, but adding up a 4.6-liter DOHC V8, ZF 6-speed automatic transmission, distinct 18-inch hyper-silver alloy wheels, tires, chrome lower bodyside moldings, ultra-premium leather seating surfaces, leather-wrapped dash and door trim inserts, power glass sunroof with tilt and slide, power tilt and telescopic steering column, included memory system, Lexicon 15-speaker surround sound audio system, 6-disc CD changer, lighted scuff plates, wood-trimmed leather steering wheel, electrochromic auto-dimming interior rearview mirror with compass and Homelink, power rear sunshade and rain-sensing wipers with auto defogger windshield.

2009 Ford Flex

2008-06-03T00:57:00.000-07:00

The new 2009 Ford Flex full-size crossover is all about bold design and prominent interior – talk about a spacious 7-passenger seat. It combines seating for seven, interior spaciousness and surprising features with an outstanding design that looks great on the road and at home.

The 2009 Ford Flex is powered by Ford's award-winning 3.5-liter V-6 engine and is mated to a fuel-efficient 6-speed transmission. The powertrain is expected to deliver more than 260 horsepower, 245 lb.-ft. of torque and good fuel economy.

Flex's available all-wheel-drive system is tuned to provide confident driving in all weather conditions. Intelligent AWD uses an active, on-demand electronic center coupler to allocate a precise amount of torque from front to rear - up to 100 percent to either axle. The system also can anticipate wheel slip before it happens.

Fall in love with Flex’s textures, features and functionality that create an ultimate atmosphere for perceptive customers. It’s got an available compressor-driven refrigerator that cools in two-and-a-half hours, second-row footrests, Ford Sync in-car communications and entertainment system, 2,300-song personal juke box, programmable ambient interior mood lighting and a Multi-Panel Vista Roof. The second-row seats fold to provide access to the third-row. Choose interior lighting to fit your mood with its 7-color programmable ambient lighting.

Love the signature chrome horizontal 3-bar grille. A white suede or silver roof option can be paired with available exterior colors or a body-color roof. Standard 18-inch or available 19-inch bright aluminum wheels plant the tires firmly on the road. The rocker panel design reduces the need to step over it when getting in and out. Taillights outlined in chrome and Flex Limited models have LED lamps and a brushed satin finish metal appliqué that covers the liftgate’s center.

Meanwhile, Ford Sync is the voice-activated hands-free in-car communications and entertainment system. It integrates mobile phones and digital media players into the vehicle. It was developed in collaboration with Microsoft and will be offered solely on Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles later this year.

Ford's next-generation navigation system features voice recognition technology and more than 150 hours of music storage with the exclusive second-generation door-entry keypad. Located within the vehicle's black B pillars, the flat-panel, backlit keypad eliminates the need for door-mounted buttons and provides the ability to unlock doors, disarm the alarm system and disable the auto-lock function through a 5-digit code.

The chassis accommodates more than 4,000 pounds of towing capacity and still delivers a quiet and confident driving. Engineering advancements incorporates an independent rear suspension system (IRS) with distinct geometry for better tuning. The 6-millimeter thick windshield helps reduce wind and powertrain noise while specially selected tires make road noise nearly unnoticeable.

The rear back-up camera gives the driver a view of what's behind the vehicle. The system works in conjunction with the vehicle's reverse sensing system and uses the navigation screen as a display. The AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) that predicts a vehicle's path, using a sensor to measure oversteer and yaw. Ford's Personal Safety System includes dual-stage driver and front passenger air bags, thorax side air bags for front seat occupants, safety belt pretensioners, seat weight sensing system for passenger seat and crash severity sensing. Safety Canopy side curtain air bag is designed for all three rows. It uses roll-fold technology to efficiently deploy the air bag when an occupant's head is resting against the side glass. In case of a crash, the roll-fold bag will deploy between the occupant's head and the side of the vehicle. Ford's BeltMinder safety belt reminder for driver and front passenger as child safety locks on the rear doors, the trunk LATCH system and Ford's tire pressure monitoring system.

New 2009 Ferrari California picture with the top up

2008-06-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

Now, the 2009 Ferrari California roadster makes its appearance with its hard top up. Fortunately, in spite of the 2 plus designation (don’t exactly know what that means) the car still maintains two-seater proportions, so it does not have an outrageously long rear deck. There were many discussions and comments regarding the virtues of the California's design details, yet the overall proportions are definitely classic GT, the folding hard top did not ruin that up, thanks to that.

The Ferrari President recently had first taste of the 2009 Ferrari California by driving the new car at the company's Fiorano test track. Apparently, he felt quite fussy about the newcomer. He said that the California is like all the other Ferrari models – the epitome of cutting-edge technology. The latest hard top can actually change state, more or less in 14 seconds. Expect a long summer of teasing from Ferrari before the 2009 California makes its debut in October at the Paris Motor Show.

Tire Talk

2008-06-03T00:45:00.000-07:00

The tire contributes to a great riding experience. Your expensive and classy car would be nothing without a good set of tires to roll against the road surface. So here’s some essential information you should know about your car tires.

Along with the different brands of these tires, they also come in different sizes. Your car tires should always fit the type of vehicle you are driving. If you get a smaller size than what is suitable, you might endanger your driving or end up spending more just for your tire maintenance.

So how will you know your tire size? That is by looking for it in your car manual or on the sidewall of the tires. The sidewall print contains other pieces of important tire information. If you do not know how to interpret the sidewall numbers and letters, you can consult a tire and car website for the right interpretation. There are sites which allow you enter information on your car's model and make so you can get the exact tire size information.

Apart from the size, your car should have the correct rims for your tires as these give your tires proper support. Securing the wrong rim for the tire can end up in excessive tension on the tires. The result can be early damage on your tires. If you want to customize the wheels, be sure you consult experts who know which tires fit with which rims firsts.

There are different options for car tires such as tires for the winter and summer (see the picture above). Tires are also classified according to the type of vehicle – passenger tires have different dimensions from those used in SUVs and vans. Another category is according to use. Drivers can have specific driving styles. Some may also drive more often in rough terrain than others or may need their vehicles for frequent transport of heavy load. There are specific tires depending on your use and the way you use them.

But not considering the tire brand and how you take care of your tires, tires cannot last a lifetime. Part of keeping yourself safe on the road is knowing when your tires should be changed. Some manual suggest when tires should be replaced. More than that, look for leaks, tears, wear and bumps on the rubber of your tires.

If you are not sure about anything regarding your car tires, don’t make guesses. This could put your life in danger. If you need help with tire information or tire replacement, you can always ask an expert or qualifies tire dealer. Always prefer the right car tire for you ride and save on money and effort.

2009 Mitsubishi Galant

2008-05-31T01:15:00.000-07:00

New styling, technology and value standard – that’s what the 2009 Mitsubishi Galant is all about.

The 2009 Galant line offers four distinct trim levels and three performance levels – giving you wide choices of midsize car with the Galant Ralliart topping the line. It integrates new standard factory value packages of premium equipment at a substantial savings. Furthermore, the 2009 Galant comes standard with a Sportronic automatic transmission. Sportronic allows manual shift control for a more engaging driving experience.

The 2009 Galant stands out because of its smart-styled front end and stylish new lines – new hood lines, grille and lower intake highlight. From the rear, it features wider rear glass, new tail lamps and bumper treatment and a new deck lid with a center, high-mounted stop-lamp. The new standard 17-inch alloy wheels identify the Galant Sport model.

The 2009 Galant provides a roomy midsize package with bigger passenger space and rear legroom. In addition, a wide array of available user technologies meets you for your entertainment and convenience.

The Ralliart model carries a 258-hp 3.8-liter MIVEC V-6 engine and a 5-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, plus special Ralliart-tuned sport suspension, new 18-inch alloy wheels and exclusive exterior styling. The Galant's firm body structure sets the stage for responsive handling and a sporty driving experience, balanced by a smooth, quiet ride. The trusted MacPherson strut design front suspension attaches to a sub-frame containing a big, strict cross member. The low-mounted, multi-link rear suspension features stiff hydro-formed cross members lessen flex and help minimize road noise within the cabin.

The anti-lock brakes (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), dual-stage front airbags, front seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and side front and rear curtain airbags come standard. Both Sport V-6 and Ralliart are installed with standard traction control that helps thwart wheel spin by monitoring and controlling the speed. A Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) can alert the driver to a sudden loss or change in tire pressure.

Galant Sport models are equipped with power glass sunroof and cloth heated front seats. Also featured in the Galant Sport Edition and Galant Sport V-6 are automatic climate control system, 8-way power driver's seat, steering wheel audio controls, auto-dimming rear-view mirror with Homelink garage door opener/transmitter, 17-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, fog lights, heated side view mirrors, theft-deterrent alarm system, color-keyed rear spoiler, windshield shade band, dark chrome headlamp reflectors, and illuminated glove box.

The Galant Sport V-6 model also adds a standard 360-watt Rockford Acoustic Design premium audio system that includes SIRIUS Satellite Radio. A linear 8-channel amplifier with a dedicated channel driving each loudspeaker for the ultimate in sonic control, silk dome tweeters located on the leading edge of the dash for a natural multi-dimensional soundstage and Digital Signal Processing for user-selectable listening environments are included.

Galant Ralliart boasts of performance that of the Mitsubishi Eclipse GT, with a 3.8-liter V-6 that generates 258 hp at 5,700 rpm and 258 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,500 rpm. It is capable of accelerating from zero-to-60 mph in about 6 seconds. The Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system helps maximize power and engine efficiency across a broad engine speed range. The Galant Ralliart features its own sport-tuned suspension with higher-rate springs and dampers and a 21-mm rear stabilizer bar, plus the 4-wheel disc brakes featuring larger front and rear discs.

Luxury amenities include perforated leather-trimmed seating surfaces, heated front seats, automatic climate control system, power glass sunroof and an auto-dimming rear view mirror with Homelink transmitter and aluminum pedals and Micro-delta print accent panels, a standard 4.9-inch color LCD display, compass, trip computer with fuel mileage information, door alarm indicator, maintenance recorder, and calendar. The display provides an interface that allows you to modify settings for many of the interior amenities.

2008 Peugeot 407

2008-05-29T17:20:00.000-07:00

From its first launch a few years back, the dynamic, well-designed and unique Peugeot 407 Saloon have become a standard in its division because of its high levels of road holding. It comes with a touch of style into a division based around traditional and conventional saloon and estates, made with suitable volume and sensibleness in mind. The French auto brand based the design of the new 2008 Peugeot 407 from different motoring values identified from its customers and that is appearance, technology and driving enjoyment.

One of the main appeals of the Peugeot 407 is the elegant look. With the forward positioned and inclined front windscreen, bold rear design, large wheels, the 407 has all the personality that highlights the new design signature of Peugeot cars and has become an inspiration for the design of the front of all new models. Portrayed by an ultra distinctive design at the front, with an air intake that fits exactly in terms of technical performance and bold design, it provides the 407 with a true dynamic image and exceptional road holding, the result of a number of technical solutions and Peugeot’s expert fine tuning of the suspension, benefiting both ride and handling. The 2008 407 is available with a choice of 4 and 6-cylinder engines.

This year, the 2008 Peugeot 407 is in a firm position in its division because of its distinguishing appearance that sets it apart from any other vehicles out on the road. It constantly stands out in road holding and provides a combination of safety, driving enjoyment and comfort. Expecting the ever changing tastes of its customers, Peugeot will build up the appeal of the 407. It offers more visual improvements in terms of elegance, robustness and high quality, both exterior and interior. Enhanced comfort equipment heightens the appeal by offering greater wellbeing to its occupants, such as onboard temperature control. Front parking assistance improves the car’s reputation for ease of driving and dynamic performance.

U.S. DOE on Chevy Equinox Electric Vehicle Powered by Hydrogen Fuel Cell

2008-05-29T17:18:00.000-07:00

With the addition of a Chevy Equinox fuel cell electric vehicle to Chevy line of alternative fuel and advanced technology vehicles, the United States Department of Energy (DOE) joined the team of pioneers - from regular families to media, celebrities and businesses - helping to make fuel cell vehicles a reality.

For the next 6 months, DOE employees will use the Chevy Equinox electric vehicle for their day-to-day business while sharing real-world performance data. The proposal is part of Chevrolet's "Project Driveway" – a ground-breaking market test that will help bring fuel cell electric vehicle technology to market.

Project Driveway is a vital feature of Chevrolet's "Gas Friendly to Gas Free" policy to offer highly developed technologies that enable different fuel solutions and eliminate the automobile from the environment and energy equation. It places more than 100 Chevy Equinox electric vehicles powered by hydrogen in the hands of different drivers across Southern California, Metropolitan New York and Washington, DC. The vehicle does not use petroleum, thus zero greenhouse gases are released. The only emission is unsoiled water vapor.

In addition to test drives with business partners, government agencies, influencers and media, the general public can participate in Project Driveway by logging on to Chevy's Fuel Solutions site at Chevy.com. At the program’s launch in Fall of 2007, about 62,000 consumers have participated. For the next two years, public drivers picked from the website community will participate for two to three months and provide feedback on the vehicle's performance in exchange for free fuel, insurance and the use of the vehicle. This is definitely one great idea from Chevy which must be given the chance by vehicle owners everywhere.

Sneak peek: 2010 Rolls-Royce RR4

2008-05-29T17:14:00.001-07:00

Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, a subsidiary of BMW, discloses the first design sketches of the 2010 Rolls-Royce RR4. It will sit alongside the Phantom model line-up. This 2010 Rolls-Royce model will be smaller than Rolls-Royce Phantom. It will be powered by a new engine that is distinct to the brand.

The design was sealed in 2007 and engineering is developed fully well. The manufacturing facilities are wholly reconfigured to have room for the RR4, with extended paint, wood and leather shops and a secondary assembly line. The company will move to a two shift system by 2009 as it gets ready for full production of the latest model.

Rolls-Royce said that the model is about natural performance and standard-setting levels of comfort and competence, made with the maximum care and attention. The RR4 has informal presence with greater emphasis on driving. The design is expressed through its faintly smaller dimensions and more organic form, but with powerful and purposeful proportions. Indeed, a real Rolls-Royce in every sense. Moreover, the brand revealed that the RR4 will mark a milestone in the history of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars. The business continues to go up and the launch of this new model will expand the appeal of the brand. Watch out for further design and engineering details when 2009 comes.

The New Pontiac G8 GXP

2008-05-29T01:23:00.000-07:00

There’s no stopping it now. The new Pontiac G8 GXP is set to roll out of the gate quick and tough. Yes, a GT version of the G8 has been out already and it looks really great. It carries a dual ventilated hood, quad-tip exhaust, and 367 ponies under the hood. So buckle up, the new GXP model is right here, right now.

If you’re wondering how a 402 horsepower and 400 lb ft of torque from the new corvette LS3 power plant sounds like, well for that matter – it will be just like the GTO. This mean car will have the all new award-winning LS3 engine. so that’s what you call power. It will put that power to ground either through a Tremec 6-speed manual gearbox or a HydraMatic 6L80 auto. A fully-adjustable suspension system is made by MacPherson. MacPherson strut front and multilink coil-over rear carry forward with a direct-acting front anti-roll bar, decoupled rear stabilizer bar and lateral ball joints on the rear. Caster, camber, and toe are adjustable in front, and camber and toe are adjustable in the rear. Whether you’ll be running this car on the strip, street or track, there’s no problem about it. This ride is worth the run.

The G8 GXP carries 19 inches HSV wheels in P245/40R19 summer tires. In return, these tires will take this car to 150 mph. For those that live in imperfect weather, don’t fret as there are 3 other choices including a set of all season tires. Lodged in those wheels are big ventilated 14-inch 355mm front and 12.76-inch 324mm clamped by 4 piston Brembos in front and Single pistons in the rear.
You want to hear more? So let’s get into the performance. This new Pontiac G8 GXP takes pride in 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds 0.2 second. That’s speedier than the Dodge Charger R/T along with and 0.6 seconds mark quicker than the G8 GT. The quarter runs by at 13 flat and 108 mph.

Now open that classy door and have a taste of a great interior styling. You got there the available bolstered seats and leather trim. You can also get XM satellite radio, and a 230 watt system to add that punch. Add it all up for a very fun ride with stacks of horsepower and torque. Getting on the road has never been enjoyable.

The new Aston Martin V8 Vantage receives technical improvements

2008-05-26T23:49:00.000-07:00

The distinctive appeal of the Aston Martin V8 Vantage which was initially launched to pervasive decisive acclaim at the Geneva Motor Show in 2005 is set to get important technical improvements and confirm the car’s rank as one of the world’s most thrilling sports cars.

The award-winning figure of the V8 Vantage remains the same yet it received technical changes such as the up-rated engine performance for the Coupe and Roadster. Other changes are revised dynamics to take full advantage of improved power and torque availability, enhanced Sportshift transmission software and a new sports suspension option.

The 4.7 litre V8 engine has a power output of 420bhp, providing the V8 Vantage with new reserves of mid-range performance, enhanced 0-60mph time of 4.7 seconds and top speed of 180mph. Combined European fuel economy and CO2 emissions are also improved by 13%.

The celebrated Aston Martin model design appearance is enhanced with standard and optional 19 inches alloy wheels. The award-winning exterior design of the V8 Vantage remains unchanged while a new 20-spoke 19incles alloy wheel is introduced as standard – with either diamond turned silver or graphite finishes available as options.
A new center console, revised switchgear and ECU were unveiled. The cabin boasts of a new center console from die cast zinc alloy with a graphite silver finish. The ECU – constructed from glass, polished stainless steel and polycarbonate - replaces the key used previously for the V8 Vantage. Also included are the new Hard Disk Drive Navigation System with faster route processing, additional features, improved graphics and iPod/MP3.

The cylinder bore and stroke went higher, to a total of 4735cc displacement. The increase in cylinder bore is facilitated by a move to cylinder liners pressed into the pre-machined aluminum alloy block allowing a thinner liner.

The new steel crankshaft provides the 91mm stroke and includes new holes in the counter weights for lesser rotating mass and more inter-bay breathing. New forged steel con-rods and cast aluminum pistons complete the capacity-related changes. Other big changes are enhancements to the dry sump lubrication system. The cylinder heads are modified with a new intake port and an increase in inlet valve size. A modified intake manifold matches the new port for better air flow.

The V8 Vantage transmissions enhance performance to handle the levels of power and torque. The standard manual stick-shift gearbox and the optional Sportshift transmission benefit a modified clutch and flywheel that minimizes clutch pedal efforts, saves weight, reduces rotating masses within the powertrain and increases engine receptiveness.

To widen the capabilities of the gearbox to bring customers improved comfort and convenience with sporting capabilities, the Aston Martin’s Sportshift transmission incorporates a revised control strategy, allowing the transmission (rather than the engine) to command how the engine torque must be disseminated to optimize performance and transport power easily and constantly. Sportshift takes inputs from the steering wheel, enabling the current gear to be held when the car is cornering and or descending a hill, allowing a low gear to be held and maximizing the effects of engine braking.

A series of improvements are introduced to the V8 Vantage chassis and suspension setup to transport enhanced body control and low speed ride quality; enabling the driver to take full advantage of the increased performance potential. The improved parts originally introduced on the Roadster are now carried over to the Coupe, like the revised upper damper mountings and bump stops. The front spring rates are stiffened by 11% at the front and 5% at the rear. Steering geometry is modified to improve steering feel, while the front lower suspension arm compliance bushes are stiffened by 22% to provide enhanced steering response and handling. The car benefits from Bilstein dampers which provide enhanced levels of dynamic capabilities and improved ride quality.

2008 Saab Turbo X

2008-05-23T00:55:00.000-07:00

The all-black 2008 Saab Turbo X brings a would-be renowned appeal of a car in the first black 99 and 900 Turbos while introducing Saab’s cutting-edge “cross wheel drive” (XWD) technology. Saab’s advanced new XWD system is also available as an option on 2008 9-3 Aero models, in both body styles.

In celebration of its 3 decades of leadership in turbocharging, Swedish auto brand Saab launched the 2008 Saab Turbo X – the driver-focused performance car that sets new standards of performance and capability for the brand. It boasts an improved aerodynamic performance and unique look with its specially designed 18-inch alloy wheels with grey, titanium-like finish and draw on Saab’s classic 3-spoke design. The “black turbo” theme continuously appeals to a premium leather interior.

The Turbo X is the definitive performance expression of the new Saab 9-3 range. Driver involvement and dynamic chassis control has never been better for Saab. To maximum the advantage of Saab XWD technology, the chassis of the Turbo X has been lowered 10 mm and the springs and dampers optimized to reduce body movement. To maintain a constant ride height, self-leveling dampers are fitted at the rear. Stopping power is increased with bigger brake discs
Saab XWD or Cross Wheel Drive system is made to optimize vehicle handling and stability in all driving conditions. Engine design features include a lightweight, all-aluminum construction, with a 60-degree angle between the cylinder banks for great balance; variable-inlet valve timing and twin-scroll turbocharging. XWD is offered with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. It also incorporates two original features: one is the pre-emptive engagement of the rear wheels to optimize traction at take-off; and the other one is the active rear limited-slip differential (eLSD) that brings variable torque transfer between the rear wheels.

The Saab XWD is an entirely automatic, on-demand system that can bring up to 100% of engine torque to the front or rear wheels when needed. While providing drivers optimum handling in low-grip conditions, the system’s operation improves the sporty driving experience in all road conditions. Excellent balancing of the drive torque between the front and rear axles lifts the threshold at which ESP throttle and braking interventions are triggered, offering more scope for closer driver involvement.
The Torque Transfer Device (TTD) is activated connecting the rear drive module. This pre-emptive function is an important enhancement over current technology, which needs the detection of wheel slip before the TTD is activated. The improved functionality provides maximum traction immediately for smooth, firm acceleration from rest without hesitation. The drive torque is impeccably and constantly varied between the axles by the control of a valve in the TTD. The XWD provides enhanced, more balanced chassis dynamics through the application of rear drive to balance oversteer and understeer personality, improving stability and road surface hold. When traction or optimum grip is not emphasized, only 5 to 10% of engine torque is transmitted to the rear wheels. With that, it gives better level of stability while aiding gain more fuel efficiency.

The Turbo X also features an electronically-controlled limited-slip differential (eLSD). It uses inputs from the rear wheel speed sensors and can transfer up to 40% of torque between the drive shafts. The eLSD also gives the driver improved control when cornering hard or completing a high-speed maneuver, such as a lane change, by momentarily applying more or less torque to either of the wheels to help the rear of the car more closely follow the direction of the front wheels. This damping effect can keep the car more balanced and tightly-controlled, even without the outside intervention such as the electronic constancy support.

Sneak peek: Subaru Exiga

2008-05-22T23:19:00.000-07:00

A new station wagon from Subaru showed as a concept car at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show is the Subaru Exiga. It carries a 1994cc turbocharged flat-4 based on the Subaru Impreza WRX attached to Subaru's 5EAT transmission from the Subaru Legacy and Subaru Tribeca.

It takes pride in its massive glass roof and theater-style seating, meaning the rear seats are a little higher than the front. They are upholstered in leather and trimmed in pearl white and blue. The rear seatbacks integrate fold-down tray tables, like in planes. The instrument panel provides exceptional visibility around the vehicle. it also includes a clear blue multi-display zone. The indirect lighting in the side doors and ceiling offers supple ambient light at nighttime.

The Exiga is to grace the market in 2010. So now, the brand released only a teaser site with the darkened photo of this latest seven-passenger wagon. Anyway, it will just be a matter of time before anyone can get a good glimpse of the new people mover. According to some, a version of the model has an optional aero package with additional front skirting, side sills and window treatments. Watch our for more updates.

An Alfa Romeo SUV for 2010

2008-05-22T23:16:00.001-07:00

Italian automaker Alfa Romeo is brewing a crossover SUV concept for its 2010 line up. This is the 2010 Alfa Romeo Kamal. The production version is to be unveiled comes 2010. Relying on being Italian, the Kamal will use the Fiat Premium platform which it shares with the 159, Spider, and Brera. CXover – this is the project name used by Alfa Romeo for this future model. Not much of information has been disseminated by Alfa Romeo on this model yet, so we might as well rely on these useful tidbits for now. The crossover SUV, previewed by the Kamal concept at the 2003 Geneva show, is set to debut in 2010. It is likely to be based on the 159 platform, which already supports Alfa's Q4 all-wheel-drive system and bring a range of gasoline and turbodiesel engines. On its appearance to market, the new Italian SUV is also likely to face tough competition with Germany's finest compact SUVs, now that means Mercedes GLK, BMW X3, Volkswagen Tiguan and Audi Q5. So Alfa Romeo, give ‘em that competition.

What’s cookin’ for Honda?

2008-05-22T23:13:00.000-07:00

Before Honda can officially say a thing or two about the details on its latest hybrids, a lot has already been written about it. So what’s the truth behind rumors on Honda's plan to introduce a fleet of new hybrid models to compete on Toyota's supremacy in the hybrid division? Here it is. Honda incorporates a new dedicated hybrid model, a sporty hybrid that is based on the CR-Z concept, and hybrid versions of the Honda Civic and Honda Fit.

The Honda's President recently revealed more information about that dedicated hybrid that is designed to contend with the Toyota Prius in auto market worldwide. While an official name and specific details will come later this year, Honda President Fukui confirmed that the prototype will be a 5-door hatchback (much like the Prius huh?) and accommodate five persons. The design will be based from the FCX Clarity fuel-cell vehicle. By that, expect a fresh shape that is smooth through the wind. The new Honda hybrid is set to be manufactured in Japan along wit the Civic Hybrid at the Honda's Suzuka factory.

Honda expects to sell around 200,000 per year around the world, with 100,000 earmarked for the North American markets. The brand likewise declares that it has found new ways to lessen weight in the car and lower the cost of its Integrated Motor Assist technology, although it is still hard to be convinced to parallel hybrids like the Prius which is able to run on electricity alone. All in all, Japanese automaker Honda hopes its four new hybrid models will reach global sales of 500,000 annually shortly after they are all on the market by 2010. Oh well, did Honda heard Toyota saying that it will be selling a million hybrids annually by that time? A competition indeed, don’t you think?

Opel: More torque and output while lesser consumption and emissions

2008-05-21T00:57:00.000-07:00

Here’s great news from Opel. In 2009, the brand will introduce new 1.6-liter turbo Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) engine with around 110 kW/150 hp and 210 Nm of torque. Initiated by GM Powertrain in Turin, the new unit joins Opel’s present aspirated CNG engine, which carries the same displacement and an output of 69 kW/94 hp.

The following are the main features of the latest CNG engine: a turbocharger incorporated into the exhaust manifold, an intake manifold with gasoline and CNG fuel pipes, an oil cooler and piston cooling. Through their propulsion units, natural gas-powered Opel vehicles generate 80 % less nitrogen oxide than a diesel, and almost 20 % less carbon dioxide than a gasoline model. Also, the exhaust gases contain almost no soot particles.

As a forerunner in natural gas vehicles, Opel opened new ground over 7 years ago with the unveiling of the first Zafira CNG. With its monovalentplus concept, the car showcased the brand’s focus on exceptional competence mixed with unrestricted everyday appropriateness. Opel was the very first automaker to optimize an engine for both natural gas and gasoline operation, thanks to this idea.

Opel now offers Combo high-roof van and excellent Zafira compact monocab with the 1.6 CNG aspirated engine. With carbon dioxide emissions of 138 g/km, the Opel Zafira CNG is the most environmentally friendly 7-seater available, making it named as the “Best Seven-seater” in the German Motor Club Environmental Car List for 5 years in a row.

Toyota to make U.S.-built SUVs and minivans available outside U.S.

2008-05-21T00:55:00.000-07:00

Before, this is how it goes for Toyota, one of the world’s biggest auto manufacturers – what's built in the States, stays in the States. Of course, it was with the exception of the Toyota Avalon sedan which was then exported to the Middle East last year. But now, there is a new announcement from the company. Toyota is set to ramp up U.S. vehicle production in Indiana and start to export vehicles to other active markets auto around the world. First on the list to leave the U.S. shores will be the Toyota Sequoia. It will be heading towards the Middle East later this year to meet the demands of the buyers there. It will be followed by the Toyota Sienna minivan. This model will be shipped to China and other markets comes 2010. This trend should be good news to workers and suppliers at the automaker's plants as Toyota has just slowed production at some facilities.

Navigation System on 2009 Suzuki SX4

2008-05-21T00:52:00.000-07:00

Finally, it has come full circle. American Suzuki Motor Corporation announced that, for 2009, its Suzuki SX4 compact car will have a standard, fully integrated navigation system. The province of luxurious import cars such as Acura, Lexus, and BMW, navigation is now an everyman's device and soon to be as popular as the cell phone and the personal computer.

In partnership with Garmin, manufacturer of portable navigation systems and available with a variety of Microsoft Network features, the Suzuki system is fully equipped into the instrument panel and features a flip-up, 4.3-inch touch-screen display. Navigation systems in many vehicles are bigger yet the Suzuki system is still fully featured. Bluetooth, real-time traffic, weather forecasts, and gas-price finder feature will cost extra.

To put this pricing into perspective, the cheapest way to get navigation in the Toyota Matrix is to buy the midline S model. In the popular Mazda 3, which was one of the first small cars to offer navigation, you must pay off for the Grand Touring trim level and add another amount for the navigation system. But the navigation is not available in the Honda Fit and Honda Civic models. Navigation systems are a luxury, not a necessity, but they are extraordinarily useful for those who travel regularly beyond familiar turf. The fact that navigation is now available so cheaply is something to cheer.

2009 Ferrari California

2008-05-20T01:35:00.000-07:00

A grand touring sports car from famous Italian automaker is set to be unveiled later this year at the Paris Motor Show. I’m talking about the 2009 Ferrari California. Ferrari has released the first official photographs of its sleek and V-8 powered Ferrari California grand tourer. It is fully available as a folding hard top convertible. The chassis and bodywork are entirely aluminum and the front-mounted, 4.3-liter, 454-hp direct injection V-8 engine is matched to a 7-speed dual clutch transmission. Ferrari pronounced the California should sprint from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4.0 seconds.

A new multilink rear suspension system improves the California's ride comfort. Plus, it is equipped with exclusive F1-Trac traction control system along with Brembo brakes with carbon-ceramic discs that will come standard. Matching the Ferrari's classic styling cues is the interior cabin that is endowed with new seats, steering wheel, instrument panel and infotainment system. That’s about it for the 2009 Ferrari California, at least for now. Watch out for its release at the Paris Motor Show.

Seeing a fresh luxury sedan in the Skoda Laura

2008-05-20T01:29:00.000-07:00

Czech Republic auto brand Skoda unveiled its presence in the auto luxury division in India through the Skoda Octavia and Skoda Laura. The Octavia has been a success since it was first introduced while the Laura picked up slowly yet still marks a good presence on the Indian pavements. The Skoda Laura Ambient is the new version of Skoda Laura which was launched and made a calm entry in to the market afterwards. Though both the models have marked a faint presence, both carries a unique characteristics that can make their owners proud especially in terms of elegance and style. Skoda Laura contends with Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Camry.

Skoda Laura is based on the A5 platform that comes with a cutting-edge technology and goes with the Indian road and its driving conditions. It has a 1.9 Pump Dense Technology engine known for its low emission and first-rate fuel efficiency. It gains its top speed as 189Kmph. It comes with automatic and tip-tronic transmission that has 6 forward and 1 reverse gear. It contains McPherson suspension in the front while the rear wheels contain multi-element axle with 1 longitudinal and 3 transverse links. It has dual braking system in front and back and comes with power steering.

The exterior boasts lavishness and style with extremely elegant look. The Skoda Laura is a 4-door 5-seater car and a fully galvanized body. The interior is designed for utmost comfort. It has a storage capacity of 560 liters that can be extended up to 1350 liters when you fold the rear seats. Overall, the design resembles the Octavia. Plus, experience the plush upholstery, adjustable driver seats that have memory setting options. A lengthy wheelbase offers a lot of room for the driver, thus making driving a real pleasure. It takes pride in an illuminated and refrigerated glove compartment with generous storage amenities.

This latest Skoda Laura can provide 11-16 km ph fuel competence on the city roads. It is amongst the best in its division that offers an appealing look endowed with superb technology. In India, it is available in 5 different colors in India. You can opt for Storm Blue, Candy White, Black Magic, Diamond Silver and Sahara Beige colors.
But, the smaller changes in style and technology can improve the worth of the model. You will notice that sometimes, the front vent makes it hard to see in front. The tires still need to be thoroughly enhanced to go with Indian road conditions smoothly. Thus the sedan still needs more adaptability for Indian driving conditions. The audio system can be improved but all in all, the entire car is a sign of luxuriousness – tough enough to give the Accord, Camry or Sonata a good competition.

2009 Honda Fit

2008-05-16T01:10:00.000-07:00

Here goes an enhanced sporty feel, advanced interior functionality and more safety features. Wondering what I am talking about? Well, these are what the 2009 Honda Fit is all about.

Belonging to the subcompact division, he 2009 Honda Fit promises to further its leadership with top-of-class feature content such as the available Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System; improved interior functionality, including one-motion dive-down rear seats; improved sporty demeanor through enhanced suspension, steering and body rigidity; and high levels of standard safety equipment, including Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure.

According to the executive vice president of American Honda, the critics and customers have voted the Honda Fit among the best small vehicles on the road. This 2009 Fit raises the bar even further, making it even better and throwing in a healthy dose of refinement.

Get into more comfort and convenience. Though it is seen as a compact car from the exterior, the interior provides amazingly large passenger and class-leading cargo space to take full advantage of comfort and utility. At the groundwork is an enhanced rear Magic Seat, featuring one-motion dive-down functionality, which allows the rear seat to fold flat with the front seats in the rearmost slide position and without removing the rear head restraints. The seats offer multiple seating and cargo-carrying arrangements in addition to the standard 5-passenger style. That doesn’t end there A new hidden storage bin under the driver's side rear seat brings an additional space to store your smaller items. Adding more sophistication is an available factory-installed Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with Voice Recognition that features a 6.5-inch screen. Plus, all Fit Sport models feature a USB audio interface1 compatible with the numerous USB storage devices and current generation iPods.

All of these features adhere to the automaker’s goal of providing entry-level vehicle customers with functionality and refinement that is a class above. The brand stresses that purchasing a Honda Fit for yourself is a choice, not a compromise.

Have fun driving the new Honda Fit. It features a new 1.5-literi-VTEC 4-cylinder engine attached to either an available 5-speed automatic transmission or a 5-speed manual transmission, which incorporates steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters on the Fit Sport. The new engine is built to offer the perfect balance of power and fuel economy. Bigger 15-inch and 16-inch wheels hint at enhancements to the Honda Fit's suspension, steering and body rigidity, which are anticipated to generate sportier handling without a sacrifice on the comfort.

Top-of-the-line safety equipment. The 2009 Fit adds Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure technology, available Vehicle Stability Assist and active head restraints, to a top-of-class list of standard safety features. With Fit's implementation of ACE, more than 90% of Honda vehicles sold in the United States will incorporate the pioneering body structure. When introduced to the 2009 Fit, VSA will be available in the lineup of every model that will be sold by the brand in the US. There are also the dual-stage, dual-threshold front airbags, dual front-side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System and side-curtain airbags are standard equipment on all Fit models. All seating positions have 3-point seat belts. Additionally, front and rear visibility is enhanced. More standard active safety equipment in the 2009 Honda Fit are the anti-lock braking system, with ventilated discs in the front and drums in the back, and electronic brake distribution.

Honda has not yet offered the full scoop on the 2009 Fit just yet those were some helpful images and information on the all-new subcompact car. For full information regarding this newest model from Honda, watch out for the release in time for the unveiling of the 2009 Fit this fall.

2009 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S

2008-05-15T23:50:00.000-07:00

Porsche extended its 3rd model line with the newest Porsche Cayenne Turbo S. The Turbo S is powered by a 4.8 liter V8 engine with twin turbo forced induction, releasing as much as 550 horsepower – thus the most powerful Porsche Cayenne ever.

There has been a huge demand for a new Porsche Cayenne. In return, Porsche granted this very wish of its customers with the 2009 Porsche Cayenne Turbo S – the brand’s answer to the up-and-coming new markets of Eastern Europe and Asia, for limited sports-style SUVs with top quality physical handling dynamics. Although Porsche was able to provide the new Turbo S better drive performance than the standard Turbo model with 500 horsepower, the fuel efficiency measurements for the Turbo S are exactly the same as those for the Cayenne Turbo. This is according to the calculation methods set under the New European Operating Cycle.

From the exterior, the Turbo S is recognizable by its 21 inch SportPlus alloy wheels housed within its painted wheel arches and by a sports exhaust system with 4 tail pipes made from aluminum investment casting. The air intake grills and wheel carries the same color as the body. Plus, the innovative and elegant lava gray metallic paint option is exclusive to the 2009 Cayenne Turbo S.

All models of the Turbo S have a chassis which benefits from air suspension, suspension leveling and ride-height control, along with Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM), which is mixed with Porsche Dynamic Chassis Control and Servotronic speed-sensitive variable power steering.

The enhanced performance of the Turbo S is because of its modified exhaust system and enhancements in engine control. Together with the performance improvements, it now takes pride in its maximum torque by 50 Nm to 750 Nm within 2,250 rpm to 4,500 rpm. The Porsche Cayenne Turbo S can speed up from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds and its
top speed is 280 km/h.

With the launch of the Porsche Ceramic Composite Brake as an option, Porsche stresses its leading position as a provider of ultra durable brake disks made from carbon fiber ceramic composite. As soon as the 2009 collection is unveiled, this high tech brake disk – originally made for the motor sport division – will become available for the very first time in a division other than the sports car division, namely in the elite, top quality physical handling SUV division. The front axle ceramic disks are 410 mm in diameter, whereas the rear axle disks are 370 mm in diameter. Deceleration happens through 6-piston calipers at the front and 4-piston calipers at the rear. The PCCB is available as an option on other Cayenne models such as the Cayenne S, GTS and Turbo, subject to wheel sizes of at least 20 inches.

The exceptional personality of the new Cayenne Turbo S is emphasized by its classy interior. Along with the standard equipment inside, it features the front sports seat with Comfort Memory Package, rear seating with individual seat contours, aluminum door panels showing the name plate and leather upholstery in two exclusive dual-color combinations plus a leather steering wheel with padded center.

The newest production of Porsche Communication Multimedia System Management inclusive of navigation module with hard drive provides a full range of new, easily-accessed functions activated through a touch-screen. Like other Cayenne models, the Cayenne Turbo S comes with the option of voice actuation with full word recognition for navigation system destinations, universal audio line with MP3 connection, Bluetooth and a TV module – both for analog and digital terrestrial signals. Offered as standard, the BOSE Surround Sound System with 14 speakers features an enhanced 410 Watt output a that is now capable of replicating music from audio and video DVDs in 5.1 Discrete Surround Format.

2009 Audi A4

2008-05-14T01:14:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Audi A4 features a noticeably extended hood and wheelbase. In terms of length, it is longer than its previous generation. It’s more rigid and safer than its predecessor, while dropping around 10% weight due to its lightweight steel assembly. It has a bigger trunk and the rear backrest is split at 40:60 ratio with an optional separate ski and snowboard bag. It also includes a reversible cargo floor and a fitting cargo cover. There are optional luxury features like the electro-mechanical tailgate drive and luggage retainer set.

The interior is spacious – the knee room was increased by 36 mm and headroom at 971 mm. It reflects Audi’s uncompromising quality of craftsmanship with attention to detail and spontaneous operation. The manual parking brake lever is no longer needed, thanks to the new electro-mechanical parking brake. The standard climate control system is entirely redesigned. Feel at home from the first moment on with the seats. The adaptive airbags and two stage belt force limiters provide more protection for passengers. The backs of the front seats and the head restraints support the upper body in case of rear impacts.

The 2009 Audi A4 comes with 2 powerful and smooth-running gasoline engines that cover 211 hp to 265 hp. The powerplants have direct fuel injection and the 4-cylinder gasoline engine uses turbocharger technology for more torque. The 2.0 TFSI operates with the inventive Audi valve lift system (AVS) which changes the lift of the exhaust valves. Thus, fuel consumption by the gasoline engines can drop by more than 10 %. The differential moved directly behind the engine and switched places with the clutch or the torque converter, making it possible to move the front axle 154 millimeters forward. This supplies longer wheelbase, shorter front overhang and a balanced distribution of the axle loads, enhancing handling in particular.

The new Audi A4 has a redesigned suspension from top to bottom. The pivot bearings and the five links per wheel that comprises the front axle are made of aluminum like the front cross member, which gives the front end of the body more rigidity. The steering box is located far to the front and deep down so that the steering impulse is led directly to the wheels through the tie-rods. The rack-and-pinion steering immediate feel for the road and its highly-efficient servo pump enhances fuel consumption.

The new A4’s suspension is made of aluminum; the separate layout of the springs and shock absorbers produces subtle responsiveness. The new A4 will roll off the production line on 17-inch alloy wheels. Behind these wheels are powerful brakes and ventilated front disks. The Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP) can be partially disabled when driving below 100 km/h (62.14 mph). There are two additional modular parts. One is the adaptive controller for the shock absorbers and the second part is the dynamic steering. Depending on the driving speed, it varies the steering ratio constantly.

Audi equips the new A4 with high-tech systems upon request. These include the Audi parking system, available rearview camera and lane change assist system. By way of automatic acceleration and deceleration, adaptive cruise control upholds the pre-selected speed, taking the distance to the vehicle in front into account.
The Audi Music Interface is available for the audio system. It also incorporates an iPod. Hi-fi audio is provided by Danish brand Bang & Olufsen – 505 watts of sound power, managed with 10 active channels, supplying 14 speakers. Customers can also order the navigation system with DVD and MMI that will allow the addition of a cell phone in the form of a Bluetooth car phone, and they are combined with the market-leading MMI operating system.

2008 Acura MDX: Features and fuel economy

2008-05-13T01:17:00.000-07:00

It was a luxury crossover SUV in 2007, as Acura introduced its second-generation version. I’m talking about the Acura MDX. This very year, the 2008 Acura MDX involved but a few alterations, such as the inclusion of e are very few changes, including a new auto-dimming rearview mirror. For those who are concerned about the Acura MDX gas mileage, it doesn't fare well in the changing times of worry over fuel economy and emissions.

In 2007, several of the revamp features begun with enhancing the bending strength of the vehicle. This concern made the latest MDX larger in width and length. Apart from that, it becomes lower to the ground than the first generation models. Acura also redesigned the "Super Handling All-Drive" (SH-AWD) system. What exactly is this system about? The SH-AWD is a system that makes the outside wheels spin faster than the inside wheels when turning. In return, torque can be transported where it is needed most for better handling. Not bad for an enhancement.

The great thing about the latest MDX is that it also comes big on safety features. It’s not just about being a top ranking vehicle in crash tests, as it also is equipped with remarkable safety devices. The front crash distribution points shield the passengers, aside from the number of standard safety features which cannot be missing. It includes the knee bolsters for front seats, front active head restraints, front airbags and side airbags (that comes equipped with rollover triggers) and three-row side curtain airbags.

The size of the MDX can largely accommodate as much as seven passengers with a third row. Some critics think that the third row made strictly for kids. The Acura MDX has plenty of space with 15 cubic feet of cargo space at the back the third row. When you fold the third row seat down, it makes for 43 cubic feet. If you fold both the third and second row down you can have a total of 83.5 cubic feet. Now that’s space. If you need something for a large family and with lots of power, the Acura MDX gas mileage is not a big factor that can turn it down. If you will compare it to other larger vehicles, the mpg ratings are just as good, if not better. But then, if you do not need all of the cargo space, the fuel economy may play a large role in deciding on this vehicle compared to more efficient autos on the market.

Here is one feature of the 2008 MDX that is advantageous for power but not for the Acura MDX gas mileage – the new 3.7-liter V6 engine. It is the biggest and most powerful of any Acura vehicle. With 300 hp, VTEC engine run clean yet the engine's high compression obliges you have to get premium fuel. Yes, it can deliver power, but at a cost.

Carbon fiber (CF) to replace steel in vehicle parts

2008-05-13T01:16:00.000-07:00

Generally, it seems like carbon fiber (CF) is such a wonderful material to replace a lot of metal such as steel that comprises most of automobile's structure. But let us take a closer look at the carbon fiber as there also seems to be disadvantages that will make this material not very appropriate for cars and vehicles. These are (1) supply, (2) price and (3) time that is consumed to mold weaved material. Top Japanese suppliers are already dealing with this issue. As additional CF producing plants come online in the coming years, both the price and availability must boost up. The price of CF should b more competitive since both carbon cloths go down. And, new molding processes are being developed which should minimize the time it takes to produce a CF from hours down to minutes. Considering that the overall weight of a vehicle could be halved by replacing major structural steel components with CF, expect to see CF to a lot of mainstream.

2009 Infiniti FX

2008-05-13T00:58:00.000-07:00

The new, second-generation Infiniti FX is a sweeping expression of sport and utility – bringing excellent sophistication, power and driving excitement. Produced as a combination of luxury, performance and utility of an SUV, it offers top-of-the-line styling, a superior sports platform, and a new 390-horsepower 5.0-liter 32-valve DOHC V8 engine. Each engine is paired with standard 7-speed automatic transmission; solid magnesium paddle shifters; Intelligent All-Wheel Drive, double-wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension, large 4-wheel disc brakes, Continuous Damping Control (CDC) suspension system, Rear-Active Steer and 21-inch Enkei super lightweight aluminum-alloy wheels.

The 2009 FX carries the advanced 5.0-liter V8 design, 7-speed automatic transmission and innovative safety features including the Intelligent Brake Assist, Distance Control Assist and Lane Departure Warning/Lane Departure Prevention system that keep the vehicle in its travel lane.

It has a head-turning exterior styling and sporty proportions that helped the first-generation FX stand out from other performance luxury crossovers with its long hood, stretched wheelbase, short front and rear overhangs, and low center of gravity. Side air vents have been added behind the front wheels to allow air to flow through the engine compartment and out the side of the vehicle, minimizing front end lift and improving high speed firmness. The wheelbase is stretched at about 1.4 inches, with the front wheels moved forward and out – providing more well-defined stance. The front end look has been refined, though it retains the traditional, lustrous Infiniti signature double-arch front grille, fog lamps and iconic High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon projector headlights. The LED taillights extend beyond the body, creating aerodynamic downforce and the dual exhaust outlets with chrome finishers cap the action-ready appearance.

Inside, experience a driver-oriented cockpit with perceptive controls, sport seating and advanced audio, navigation and technology ranging from an 11-speaker Boseâ-developed audio system to Infiniti Intelligent Key, Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) and Around View Monitor system. The FX interior also includes the leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, front door pockets, front seatback pockets, dual front and rear cupholders, locking glove compartment, 4 assist grips, overhead sunglass holder, four 12-volt power outlets, power windows with front one-touch up/down function (rear one-touch auto up/down function is added on FX50), power door locks and available cargo area cover, cargo net and aluminum pedals. Hospitality features include Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition and a special Welcome Lighting system with 12-point sequential lighting that starts with turning on the puddle lamps under the side mirrors as the driver approaches the FX and continues to light key areas as driver and passengers settle into the interior.

It comes equipped with state-of-the-art audio – an advanced Bose audio system to optimize sound in the FX’s interior. An all-new 7-speed transmission is offered in the all-new Infiniti vehicle. This new transmission offers both wide ratio of coverage and a wide lock-up area, as well as a manual shift mode, Downshift Rev Matching and Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). Infiniti’s advanced Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system with Traction Control System (TCS) is standard on all FX models.

It offers an independent suspension at all 4 corners, with a new double-wishbone suspension in front, made for large wheels and tires. It replaces the previous generation FX’s front strut-type suspension and provides better ride and enhanced handling. FX’s rear suspension uses multi-link design from the previous generation, polished to weigh less and provide more wheel travel for improved ride and handling.

The Infiniti FX’s Around View Monitor system, uses 4 small wide-angle cameras on the front, side and rear to project an all-around view of potential objects on each side of the vehicle to reduce blind spots when parking.

A seat belt reminder system; standard Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System; dual-stage front supplemental air bags with passenger seat occupant classification system and seat belt sensor; and roof-mounted side-impact and rollover curtain air bag are also included. Pre-Crash seat belts automatically cinches-up the FX’s seat belts once it detects emergency braking, skidding movement or emergency handling situation based on information from the brake pedal stepping speed and stroke, IBA activation, vehicle speed and steering angle.

Hyundai to share engine with Mercedes-Benz?

2008-05-10T00:42:00.000-07:00

Who would have known that Hyundai will become a world-class engine manufacturer? Well with that, the Asian brand is set to share its engine technology to Mercedes-Benz for a future 4-cylinder powerplant. A few years back, DaimlerChrysler, Mitsubishi, and Hyundai joined together in the Global Engine Manufacturing Alliance (GEMA) to build the so-called World Engine. The GEMA engine, with displacements that range from 1.8-liters up to 2.4-liters, is seen under the hood of different makes that include Hyundai, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and Mitsubishi products.

Though a statement is not yet official, President of the R&D and Corporate Product Planning and Strategy Divisions of Hyundai-Kia Motors, informed Automobile Magazine that he had been approach by the Chairman of Daimler AG at the Beijing Auto Show about collaborating on a four-cylinder powerplant. He didn't disclose the rest of the conversation, yet he further said that he is not sure of whether they are interested with the proposed deal of Daimler AG concerning their technology. Looks like everything is slowly paying off for Hyundai, just look at those gorgeous Genesis Coupe and luxurious Genesis Sedan.

2009 Bentley Brooklands

2008-05-10T00:33:00.000-07:00

For those who’ve been waiting for yet another blast from English auto manufacturer Bentley, here it what you got – the 2009 Bentley Brooklands. Can you imagine a luxury car that rolls on 20-inch wheels? Well, the Brooklands does. The 2009 Bentley Brooklands is the latest luxury model that signals Bentley’s come back into the luxury coupe market. Aside from that, the 2009 luxurious coupe reaffirms the brand’s name being the manufacturer of the world's most elite coupe. It is nothing but a true Bentley car with its classy four-seater. Indeed, it is a remarkable touring coupe with traditional British dimensions and impressive road performance.

Let’s get inside this plush Bentley. Notice the 4-seat design and the profoundly-supported seats that provide the 2009 Brooklands' interior a noticeably sporty yet elegant look. The design accents such as the aluminum pedals and footrest match its light yet charming atmosphere. In this new 2009 model, a new single-piece, hide-trimmed roof lining that flows from the front widescreen all the way to the back of the car is also featured. This particular roof lining provides a mirror effect of the long and sleek profile of the elegant exterior. Then again, its interior design offers the highest levels of comfort and legroom. Without a doubt, this classis grand touring car from Bentley with pillarless window design adds up more feeling of roomy space. Other enhancements are re-profiled camshafts, low-inertia turbochargers, a sport exhaust, and a sophisticated, locking torque converter as well as ESP system. See for yourself if a Bentley 2009 Brooklands is right for you.

The 2009 Brooklands is designed with a 213-inch 2-door style – as long as a Lincoln Town Car and weighs at 5853 pounds, much like the Chevy Suburban. Do you know that it houses an engine that could power a massive ship? It is exactly made by the phenomenal performance engineering of Bentley's 2009's chief Crewe-construct V-8 engine. This engine is built up with 530 horsepower and has a twin-turbocharged 6.75-liter unit that creates 774 lb-ft of torque at 3250 rpm. It is the world's “torquiest” engine and the most powerful V-8 ever from Crewe. Other enhancements are re-profiled camshafts, low-inertia turbochargers, a sport exhaust, and a sophisticated, locking torque converter and ESP system.

The production of the 2009 Bentley Brooklands line will be limited to only 550 cars to make sure that they go as a collector’s item. The release of these new models is expected to launch come the first half of 2008. Bentley claims the Brooklands zooms to be as much as 60 miles per hour in 5 seconds. It also declares that it can hit a 100-mile per hour mark in 6.7 seconds once it hits 60 miles per hour.

2009 Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG

2008-05-08T01:09:00.000-07:00

Mercedes Benz has not stopped to stun the automotive world with its innovations and latest cars. Say for instance, Mercedes Benz CLS surprised the auto industry way back in 2005 with its 4-door coupe – the very first in the world. Today, the German brand formally revealed the major changes made to its new 2009 Mercedes Benz CLS 4-door coupe. Yes, you’ve heard it right, a 4-door coupe it is. Undoubtedly, the Mercedes Benz CLS63 coupe had produced a one-of-a-kind auto trend – the eye-catching 4-door cars. So, is Mercedes Benz trying to wipe away the line that borders the sedans from the coupes? Well, if that is the case, it is not a bad try actually.

What really gathers a lot of talk these days is whether the latest AMG 6.2-liter naturally desired V-8 engine is an innovation greater than the supercharged 5.4-liter that was an AMG staple – predominantly, if the new model is slower or faster off the mark. With the new Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG now, you just might find yourself answering both a yes and a no. Why? Because the 6.2-liter V-8 gives off 507 horsepower in the CLS which easily exceeds the 469 horsepower in the previous Mercedes Benz CLS55 AMG. On the other hand, torque has reduced from 516 pound-ft to 465 lb-ft. More torque means faster mid-range and off-the-line acceleration, while more power means better performance.

Just like what I mentioned earlier, the Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG is powered by V-8, which is considered as a powerful naturally-aspirated production and the first engine that is utterly developed by AMG. If you notice, this influential feature is almost made wholly from highly durable silicon-aluminum alloy that makes AMG racing accomplishment push production.

If you will look at the CLS exterior, you will see some aesthetic changes such as the sleek new nose matching a more striking 2-bar grill. The CLS had a 4-bar grill. To spice it up, MB built it with a 2-bar grill. What else is noticeable? Yes, it is the built-in arrow-shaped turn signal on the CLS’ big outside mirror. There’s more. The new dual 5-spoke 18-inch wheels make the car look more prominent. Then, the new rear bumper with trapezoidal dual exhaust pipes and arrow-shaped LED tailings furnished a unique and fresh new look to the car.

Here’s an amazing thing about the CLS63, it prances to 60 miles per hour from its original point in a blazing 4.1 seconds, meaning a tenth quicker than the CLS55. So is it going to stop as fast as it goes? It will, because of added large-vented and pierced disc brakes with all around feature such as 14-inch discs and 6 piston calipers up front and 13-inch discs with 4 piston calipers attached at the rear. The AMG suspension is a recalibrated edition of Mercedes' Airmatic air-spring setup, working in combination with the Adaptive Damping System (ADS). It has driver selectable settings like the system in the E-class.

Aside from the fact that it ribs the 7200-rpm redline, it goes past 180 miles per hour. Also, not to say that the old 5-speeder was not good, its 7-speed automatic transmission is absolutely sleek. Take note – the 7-speed AMG Speedshift automatic transmission can be shifted manually by either a conventional lever or by the Formula-1 fashion shift paddles on the back of the steering wheel – right for upshifts, left or down. Some more features are shown off by the new CLS63 – bigger front discs, 19-inch alloy wheels, limited slip differential, leather and Alcantara-wrapped AMG sporty steering wheel, new gauges in white with silver backdrops, new COMAND display in the center console with Bluetooth for hands-free cell phone operation and a 6-CD “stacker” unit and voice control of audio and phone.

2009 Nissan Murano

2008-05-08T00:45:00.000-07:00

Thinking of a new SUV? Set your eyes on the 2009 Nissan Murano – second generation, 5 passenger, mid-size Crossover SUV that performs well, proves comfort and turns heads with its advanced styling. Crossover SUVs were fairly new idea back then but when Nissan entered the field with its "sculpture in motion" theme of the Murano, the brand easily caught the interest of the automotive world.

Get inside and be greeted by its roomy interior for people and cargo. It runs the road with receptive handling and a comfortable ride. It comes in three trim levels – the base S, the SL, and the premium LE. You will be pleased to hear that the S and SL cost less than before.

Since the S model is the same as the higher trim levels, you get the same engine, transmission and running gear. The models acquire the exceptionally competent Nissan 3.5 liter engine, which has been upgraded to boost 265 hp. The Continuously Variable Transmission downshifts faster and supplies more consistent acceleration The All Wheel Drive system distributes equal torque to all wheels during acceleration. While driven, it directs most power to the front wheels for more fuel economy. The AWD connects to the Vehicle Dynamic Control system, incorporating yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors, and steering angle sensors to reorganize torque between the front and back to uphold stability. This results to a smooth, strong powertrain and better mileage. The Murano's acceleration is more than enough.

The SL proves a firm but comfortable ride, the steering was responsive and gave a good feel for the road. The new hydraulic power steering was speed sensitive, stiffening at higher speed. Road noise was fairly low, wind noise was quite low, and quiet conversation can be heard even at high speed, making it a great car for long distance travel. Nissan incorporates an 8-way power driver seat, 4-way power passenger seat and reclinable foldaway rear seats. A dual panel moonroof is available, one panel over the front seats and one over the rear seats, with one-touch open and close for the front.

The new Murano accommodates five but leaves large cargo space along with foldaway rear seats, power assisted rear seat and powered lift gate. The trunk and the foldaway seats have controls at multiple points for easy access. A cargo organizer in the trunk pops open at the touch of a button to hold as much as four bags of groceries firmly and folds away neatly to consume almost no space.

Also included are the 11-speakers, AM/FM/XM/CD/iPod/MP3/Aux-in audio jack or AV inputs. A rear DVD entertainment system with a 9-inch display and wireless headphones comes optional. An optional navigation system uses XM's subscription-based NavTraffic to provide alternate routes around accidents and traffic congestion to hugely minimize drive length. The steering slants and contracts with optional power assist. The indicator cluster has a speedometer above a new and easy-to-read driver information display. The layout of driver controls are easy to see and reach. Also new in 2009 are lighted steering wheel controls with audio-phone-hands-free-voice-control on the left and cruise-control on the right.
The center console displays audio system and optional navigation system information. The climate control is dual zone, meaning the driver and front seat passenger can set their own temperature. The diffusion screen on top of the dashboard disperses air to prevent it from blowing directly into the occupants' faces.

Other optional features are Bluetooth phone system, leather seat surfaces, rain-sensing front wipers, high-intensity discharge xenon headlights, heated outside mirrors, and roof-rails. For electronics junkies, the 12-volt outlets in the dashboard, console, and cargo area are perfect.

Hyundai plans for 2015

2008-05-06T00:44:00.000-07:00

Since Hyundai also intends to market its vehicles in the U.S., it is looking forward to the proposed fuel economy standards expected by 2015. If Hyundai's passenger cars average 32.4 mpg, while trucks average 25.5 mpg, the new regulations ask for numbers that will go as high as 37.5 mpg and 31.0 mpg. Hyundai's approach involves two methods that will work hand in hand to get to that numbers.

Hyundai needs to amplify electrical efficiency through the use of LED technology that gives less tension on the powertrain; electric power steering systems; direct-injection engines; 6-speed transmissions; lightweight materials; aerodynamic enhancements and low-rolling resistance tires. While the electric power steering system adds a minimal 1 mpg, the combination of DI engines and 6-speed 'boxes should raise fuel economy at least between 3% and 6%. In the coming years, Hyundai intends to furnish its V6-powered vehicles with 6-speed gearboxes, while smaller models with 4-cylinder mills will be upgraded to 5-speed transmissions. These are all expected to aid the brand achieve its goals.

Future Model T Ford

2008-05-06T00:38:00.001-07:00

Isn’t it fun to be celebrating summertime away from the stress and pressure of college exams? Oh yes, exams can really worry students but maybe it’s not the same thing that is making the students of Detroit's College for Creative Studies (CCS) busy and interested lately. This year, the juniors majoring in transportation design were designated by world-recognized auto manufacturer Ford Motor Company to squeeze their creative minds towards a modern Model T.

Bringing back a legendary vehicle absolutely challenged the designers since they have to retain the original's concept but ironically, the Model T carried a lot. The Model T allowed them to travel, work, and innovate though it seemed impossible before. Maybe, then, it is but right that no two projects fit exactly into the same recess. Students had free control to sum up the Model T's spirit and revise it for the 21st century. A lot of designs circled around modularity, meaning allowing the same basic vehicle to be nearly everything to everyone.

A student’s "Future-T" sported a modular roof structure, permitting a single vehicle to act as an SUV, a convertible or a pickup by adding or removing certain panels. Another student's design entitled customers to custom-build their own T directly at the factory, harking back to the industrial innovation related to the T. The other ones focused on the Model T's impact on society, such as the cube-shaped buggy, innovated to take on the worst roads that you can think of and hoped to bring mobility and connectivity to consumers in developing nations. Another idea brought recreation to the vehicle, including a removable roof structure that doubled as a tent. It was to an extent that others have the courage to explore aspects of the Model T which were not yet pursued by Ford itself. One entry, the MOD-T, merged images of tricked-out T-buckets with today's techno-loaded sports cars. The car's forms are sleeker than the original's, along with an electric drive, there's none of the sonic delight shaped by a big-block - but with a stripped-down look that highlights the suspension and big wheels, indeed the future’s hot rod.

What caught much interest and admiration was the concept that lucratively combined multiple elements of the T's heritage into a single design. At first glimpse a shapely hatchback over large wheels, but it calls for an incredibly adaptable seating system, a folding hatch which transformed the car into a pickup truck, and a removable battery pack which could power objects when not in the vehicle. Isn’t that amazing? That combination won the admiration of Ford designers, announcing it the best in show.

GM to trim down truck and SUV production

2008-05-02T01:15:00.000-07:00

Rumors has it that beginning July this year, General Motors (GM) is set to minimize shifts at its 4 different plants that manufacture GM full-size trucks and SUVs in an attempt to bring production along with market demand. The hold back will start July 14 at GM's Flint, Janesville. It will go the same with other Pontiac assembly plants that produce the Chevy Heavy-Duty Silverado, Tahoe, Suburban, Silverado and GMC Yukon, Yukon XL and Sierra. The slowdown is also set to happen in GM’s Oshawa truck plant from September 8. Thus, this move is expected to zero 80,000 full-size pickups and 50,000 full-size SUVs from the brand’s North American production facility.

Said GM, “Both vehicles have lost out in the market, with sales of full-size trucks dropping down to 15% and SUVs to 26% for 2008 first quarter.” But we all know for a fact that it’s not just that. It’s also because of the increasing fuel rate that will naturally reduce the demand for muscular vehicles. The company hasn’t present details regarding its effect on workers, simply declaring it will "result in lower staffing requirements at all four plants," and that the details will follow.

Make your Pontiac look great

2008-05-02T01:08:00.000-07:00

Hitting the road with your Pontiac is totally fun. Pontiacs are categorically great-looking vehicles you can be really proud of. Take it from the trademark’s influential and luxurious legacy. With the growing number of Pontiacs on the road, however, adding up parts or accessories that can intensify its natural extravagant look and make it more prominent than the rest. And of course, it wouldn’t hurt to treat those loved wheels – buy things and other necessities to make them properly cared for and continue to look pleasing every time. Because of this concern, innovative ideas have been considered, in the same way that companies have been there to offer Pontiac accessories. This is of course intended for those whose fad is to perk up, refurbish and make their Pontiacs as good as new.

If you think Pontiac accessories are only for revamping cars, think not. That’s so stereotypical. These add-ons are also there to work as protection to the car parts or to the particular system they belong to. So it’s like hitting two birds with one stone. First, you get to accessorize your ride (which is your top priority) and second, you are able to protect the components from any damage. And you’ll soon find out that you have just made protecting your car more fun, worthwhile and rewarding. Now, this is the idea that made car owners invest and get engrossed in putting up more accessories into their rides.

So let’s get into your lovely Pontiac. As Pontiac owner, you wish to accentuate the beauty of your car. Well, that’s not a bit of a problem with all those companies and brands that offer car accessories to help you with your project. Local and online shops make your search for parts and accessories even more easy and progressive at a minimal timeframe. From those beefy bumpers that would competently protect you and your Pontiac from collisions to grilles that accommodates bigger spaces for engine to be constantly in perfect temperature. Or why don’t you invest in hubcaps for hard-hitting wheels and spoilers that will boost aerodynamics of your ride and create that sporty racer look? Fender flares, too, are widely available to prevent mud and dirt from destroying your car's paint as well as the car bras for front end protection and sportier physique. Just name it and these companies have got it all for you.

What I’ve mentioned were just some of the add-ons you can equip in your ride but. But that doesn’t stop there. Find out the other ones for yourself and make that Pontiac more capable and more stunning on the road. There’s a lot more to know about your Pontiac and everything in there that you can customize and beautify any time you want to.

Airbag safety

2008-04-29T21:50:00.000-07:00

Driving. Collisions. Accident. Seatbelts. Airbags. For vehicle owners and drivers, these words are a lot familiar. Driving maybe among the most usual things you do everyday. But have you noticed that it is some kind of a privilege yet a lot of drivers take it for granted? We sometimes disregard that our car is a safe and secure way to get ourselves, our family members, friends or maybe other passengers to our target destinations no matter what the weather is outside, or how jagged the road we are traversing is or how risky the condition is. Modern cars now are equipped with reminders, complete with flashing lights and often little bells, which encourage them to use their safety belts before setting the car into drive mode. And since we all want to be safe while we are driving our cars, more safety devices are added to our vehicles. Recent auto models contain the added safety features such as the airbags that allow for cushions of air to set out upon impact at the front and side portions during minor and major traffic accident situations. But the big question now is – can the latest addition of speedily deployed airbags be more destructive than useful in numerous vehicle accidents?

Based on a research done by the NHTSA or the National Highway Traffic Safety Commission, the result reveals that since 1990, more than 200 motorists and their passengers have been fatally injured due to airbag deployment in low-speed crash situations. Almost a hundred percent of these deaths have been among children who were improperly restrained or placed with their heads far too close to the airbag deployment spot, thus causing fatal head trauma. Since most vehicles contain airbags for the passengers in the front seats of the car, it is of great importance that children do not occupy the front seat next to the driver. More than that, research has shown that airbag deployment is extremely likely to cause injury to children riding in the front seat yet fewer states currently have laws that prevent children from occupying that area.

For airbags to work well for drivers and passengers, they need to occupy a space inside the car that is out of the airbag deployment zone. Keeping a minimum 10 inches from the steering wheel or dashboard can help to guarantee that airbag deployment has lesser chance of causing face or eye injury.

Most of the time, however, the injuries and deaths of adult riders are the result of rider error or neglect. In many of these cases, passengers and drivers have neglected to wear their lap belts correctly, relying on the thought that airbags are enough to protect them during serious road accidents. This is not far from the truth actually. That is because airbags are designed to work along with the existing safety seatbelts, as in both should be working in cases of collision. Safety belts should always be worn properly, secure and snug about the waist. This is an important measure in impeding forward movement in a crash situation.

Certainly, airbags are additional safety measure to help protect drivers and passengers from serious impact of chest or face to the dashboard or console. They provide valuable protection in harmful situations when proper safety guidelines are followed. In any accident situation, drivers must do all they can to ensure that their passengers are protected, though some are not that cautious. It is very important to make sure that all passengers are protected before and after an accident. And that can be achieved through proper use of safety devices and a cautious driving attitude.

2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

2008-04-29T01:09:00.000-07:00

Wait no more as here is the awaited result from the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1's SAE certification. It will be 376 cubic inch supercharged LS9 V-8 that releases 638 horsepower and 604 lb-ft of torque. When the car was officially launched in December 19, 2007, it was announced that Chevrolet Corvette fans and owners can expect definite output of at least 100 hp per liter, of which the engine has 6.2 L. General Motors added that the car is capable of 200 mph (320 km/h), thus the fastest production Corvette ever made by GM. These numbers certainly make good on that promise, and work out to 103 hp per liter.

Chevrolet Motor Division pronounces that the engine will be the most fuel-efficient 600-plus horsepower car on the market. This is quite a believable claim for an auto make which has introduced the Corvette Z06 with its respectable 24 mpg on the road.

General Motors chief executive officer Rick Wagoner voiced but a few select words to stir a whole new Chevrolet Corvette. Retorting to plans for the $65,800 Chevy Corvette Z06 three years ago, he pondered what the team could do for 100,000 dollars. Well, the answer lies in the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – engineered to be the most powerful, best performing, highest priced Chevy in its history.

If you are yet to know the things you got to know about the latest Corvette, here’s are a few more of it. The 2009 ZR1 boasts of an all-new LS9 supercharged 6.2L V-8 targeted at generating no less than 100 horsepower per liter, or 620 horsepower and around 595 lb.-ft. of torque. It contains a 6-speed, close-ratio, race-hardened manual transmission, plus a new and high-capacity dual-disc clutch and higher-capacity and specific-diameter axle half-shafts; improved torque tube, suspension tuning that provides more than 1g cornering grip; 20-spoke 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels; Michelin Pilot Sport 2 tires (build specifically for the ZR1); bigger brake calipers with considerably increased pad area; Standard Magnetic Selective Ride Control with track-level suspension; wider, carbon-fiber front fenders with ZR1-specific dual vents; carbon-fiber hood with a raised, polycarbonate window; carbon-fiber roof panel, roof bow, front splitter and rocker moldings with clear-coated, exposed carbon-fiber weave; ZR1-specific full-width rear spoiler with raised outboard segments; specific gauge cluster with boost gauge and 220-mph speedometer readout and more.

2009 Kia Optima

2008-04-29T01:06:00.000-07:00

There’s no stopping Kia this year. Although the Kia Optima is often unnoticed, being a close competitor of Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, well it has just proven lead amidst the competition with its mid-cycle freshening at the recently concluded New York auto show. The exterior boast of a fresher grille and headlights, thus giving it a bit more of the rising Kia family which was evident in the new Kia Koup concept which took center stage for Kia Motors in New York last March.

The new Kia Optima exhibited at the 2008 New York International Auto Show is in an SX trim, marking the earliest time that Kia has attached that badge to the Optima – it suggests a sportier mode. Here are few more interesting changes in the 2009 Kia Optima: the turn signal lights that are now integrated into the side rearview mirrors, the new-fangled taillights and deck lid, latest standard Sirius satellite radio as well as a new three-pod instrument gauge cluster, thus a redesigned front end. Indeed, the 2009 Kia Optima has been subjected to some face-lift. The model will go on sale this coming fall. Moreover, Kia Motors Company declared that from January 1, 2009 and onwards, all Kia cars sold in the Unites States will come standard with Sirius as well as a three-month subscription.

2009 Mercedes Benz CLS-class

2008-04-26T00:25:00.000-07:00

If you have decided to get yourself a new road machine, you might as well wait some little while. Yeah, not yet, because who knows, you could find yourself wanting to have a 2009 Mercedes Benz CLS-class full-size luxury car. Mercedes-Benz furnished its very own 4-door "coupe" with a few updates for the year 2009.
Three years on from its launch, the CLS-class is not going to take its product in a dimly lit garage or parking area. Mercedes has structured some slight styling adjustments to keep the swoopy 4-door looking good, both in CLS550 and CLS63 AMG semblance.
Without getting overshadowed by a fresher, 4-door for the MB fans, Mercedes' segment-defining, fashionable CLS gets a modified grille (it now contains 2 louvers instead of 4), a new rear apron with trapezoid exhaust pipes, a 3-spoke steering wheel, a new infotainment system, new side mirrors and taillights ready with arrow-shaped LED turn indicators, and of course, a new 3.0-liter V-6. That’s great news, isn’t it?
How would Mercedes execs react to see that the VW team is taking a page from their CLS design book? Introducing a less powerful V-6-engined model that could help steal a few Passat CC sales in markets outside the United States. Oh well, Mercedes doesn't officially affirm the lower-priced V-6 VW as a direct rival, or is he company considering it? With that, it looks like the CLS and the Passat CC V-6 models will only get a chance to benefit from the “supposed” competition in Europe since the US dig up only the V-8 CLS.
But, in an attempt to boost the CLS's performance, the 6.3-liter AMG version is now equipped with a transmission that bugs (yes, talk about disruptions) the throttle during downshifts. And by using newly redesigned rear exhaust silencers, the CLS63 AMG's pair of twin pipes brings a strident bark unheard of in any sedan.

2009 Mazda6 for North America

2008-04-26T00:21:00.000-07:00

It is time for the 2009 Mazda6 that is set to hit the North American shore. Mazda has already released the initial photos and details of the new model. It will be intended for the North American Mazda enthusiasts, though the sedan shares a lot of cues with the Japanese and European-market cars over the last year. The North American car which will be driven by Americans and Canadians is actually larger than its overseas equivalents. The front and rear facades categorically differ from the Japanese and European prototypes. The USDM car gets a divided grille and has its fog lamps pushed out to the corners under the bumper. If you’ve seen the photo, you will notice that the car gets an utterly different trunk, rear bumper, and exhaust treatment that is more attractive than the basic Japanese and European setup.

Because Mazda released limited shots, specifically exterior, shots, we’re yet to determine what it has to offer for the passenger to-be. Power will come from the same 2.5L 4-cylinder base engine used in the European and Japan car, coupled to either a 6-speed stick or 5-speed auto. The step-up 3.7L V6 is the same one you will find below the hood of the CX-9. Its only transmission option is a 6-speed auto with a manumatic sport shift facet. Horsepower and torque numbers for the USDM is not yet released, but it’s approximately a 170 hp/166 lb-ft from the 4. The 6 produces 273 horsepower and 270 lb-ft in CX-9 trim, so you can look ahead to something along those lines. Mazda's press release is pasted after the jump, in which you'll find no mention of either a wagon or 5-door hatchback variant. The 'Mazda6 arrives as a sedan, and expected to land in your local dealer showrooms shortly this summer.

2009 Honda Pilot

2008-04-25T01:04:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Honda Pilot appears to be the beefy version of its SUV forerunner. It carries its ominous grille, thick C-pillars and big headlights. Overhangs remain the same but this SUV is way bigger with wheelbase that has been extended by almost 3 inches, giving access to the well extended third-row seats. 2009 Pilots use a 5-speed automatic transmission connected to a modified 3.5-liter V-6 that generates 250 hp and 253 lb-ft torque. With Honda's latest version of VCM or Variable Cylinder Management, the engine can run on 3, 4, or all 6 cylinders, depending on the power that is needed. Active engine mounts and the 8 eight-inch subwoofers negate strange vibrations produced once the engine is not run on all cylinders.

Though it has some flaws as a sports utility vehicle, all in all, the new Pilot does almost everything else as well or better than its contemporaries. It is 10 inches shorter than the GMC Acadia yet it offers almost as much passenger space and feels like it is half the GMC's size from behind the wheel. Plus, it seems more quiet inside along with its thick-rimmed steering wheel and supportive seats. By and large, the interior is the biggest upgrade for the 2009 Pilot. The materials feel much more expensive than before, the instrument bunch is cool, with black numbers floating on a transparent surface and orange needles below. Many of the stuffs you expect to find in a family carrier – Bluetooth, a rear DVD entertainment system and navigation – are transferred to the top-of-the-list prototypes, nevertheless all Pilots have huge, well-designed storage bins all over the cabin.

For those families who are after an SUV that looks tough from the outside yet coddle its passengers in comfort, the 2009 Honda Pilot is a good choice. It will be released on May 22, 2008 for Honda enthusiasts.

Classic car restoration, anyone?

2008-04-25T01:01:00.000-07:00

Do you have a classic car with you? Would you want it to look and work like you’ve driven it for the first time from its showroom? Well, how about indulging in car restoration? Bet you are curious about it. As the name puts it, classic car restoration is the process of renovating a car to restore its original condition. The whole process goes from the interior, exterior, engine and other mechanical components and correlated add-ons. Depending on the type of restoration, an individual or company restoring a classic car may use only original parts and pieces, or may fabricate materials to bring the classic back to original look and performance.

The restoration may take a while as it is a long and strenuous process which can take years. Some may even find their projects not at all completed. At times, it can be quite frustrating, for just when you find something fixed, another part of the car goes wrong. Thus, the entire process of restoring a car is big and it’s usually bigger than you’ve expected.

Here’s a great idea. Why don’t you invite your friends and family as the process is definitely physical, like removing the rust, priming and painting. The procedure can also be a little more complex as it involves a total disassembling of car components, cleaning, repairing and retesting, and stripping and reupholstering the interior. The engine may also need restoration. The exterior is usually repaired and refinished last.

Classic car restoration is a complex series of projects that not only takes few years to complete, but may end up costing you more and more bucks each time you conduct the process. But if you are really interested in completing your car restoration project, a rewarding outcome is worth the wait and hard work.

Fasten up

2008-04-24T01:22:00.000-07:00

You would not find cars without a seatbelt being one of the most common safety devices included in cars. It’s the basic protection for drivers and passengers when there are collisions. Stats indicate that while seatbelts are still quite 'low-tech', they are very effective in terms of protecting occupants, thus saving approximately 9,500 lives annually. In line with that, stats show that more than 60% of people who expire in car accidents were not wearing seatbelts. So there, we firmly believe that seatbelts are vital. Some people are more likely to buckle up than others. Male drivers between 16 and 25 years old are the least group to wear a seatbelt which also makes this group known for being the highest-risk drivers in the US. So if there are individuals who need to learn good seatbelt habits, it’s them.

Over the years, seatbelts have come in many different designs, from the simple lap belt to the modern 3-point belt that goes from shoulder to the hip and across the waist. Different factors contribute to successful seat belt design. Since the purpose of the seatbelt is to reduce the force on occupants when there is collision, it should dispense its stopping power in a way that will lessen bodily injury. Say for instance, the 3-point belt. It is designed to spread the impact of a sudden stop over the chest and into the strong shoulder and hip bones of the occupant’s body.
With the forceful evidence for the advantages of wearing a seatbelt, the US impose laws that make wearing a seatbelt obligatory. If you get caught not wearing one, penalties differ among the states. Some states make an age distinction in their seatbelt laws, such that 14 states add indirect consequences for those who do not wear seatbelts, meaning, people who sue for damages following an accident might have their awards abridged if they were not wearing a seatbelt during the time of the incident.

The thing is, not everyone would like to follow the compulsory wearing of seatbelt. Some feel that such laws are violations on their rights. But what about the threat it can do to an individual? Can you disregard injuries to the chest, abdomen, and neck areas, cardiac arrest linked to seatbelts, particularly in high-speed collisions? But while injuries possibly have been worse without a seatbelt, some believe that forcing them to wear a potentially risky device is unlawful.

Ford Fiesta S for China

2008-04-24T01:13:00.000-07:00

The Ford Fiesta was originally manufactured in European specification. Oh well, it’s another story because this very year, the Ford Fiesta will start to cater for the Chinese populace. China will now become one of the important markets for the latest Ford Fiesta S. This Ford sedan was initially launched in European spec at the Geneva Motor Show last March, but the Chinese version has just made its debut last week end at the Beijing Motor Show in China. Being a model intended for China, the Fiesta is scheduled to start its manufacture before the end of the year at Ford's million-dollar Changan Ford Mazda Automobile plant located in Nanjing, China. That’s how serious Ford is with its Chinese prototype that production will really take place in China. Styling is generally the same as the Fiesta’s European equivalent, only that the Beijing show car, displayed in S trim, features a sportier, more aggressive trim package that could foretaste what a future Fiesta ST or RS might appear to be. Take a look at the picture below and decide whether you will favor the Chinese or you will just leave it to them and prefer the European version instead, you decide.

Take 2: Keep your A/C healthy

2008-04-23T01:12:00.000-07:00

I’ve already posted an article about air conditioning but this time, I thought of giving more emphasis on the car’s A/C (well this time it’s about servicing and re-regassing) not just because it’s summer time, but because we should never take this system for granted even during the winter season.

After those what seemed to be endless hours of cleaning and polishing of your car, you surely want to keep going and make that entire exterior and the interior look more like a new one out of the factory. You go as far as vacuuming, polishing and shampooing, but mind you, it’s not really enough. Make your cleaning session more extensive. To make sure that your car maintains its top performance level, be sure to conduct regular A/C services by your expert technician.

Do you know that the health of your air conditioning relies on the routine checks and regular servicing sessions? Preferably, the gap should go from 12 to 18 months. The normal permeability of the hoses and other parts of your car’s A/C definitely need regular maintenance. Don’t just stick to the fact that a well-functioning car air conditioning system is important in keeping you cool and comfortable while you are riding your car especially on hot summer days. It is a necessity. Without it or lack of use can result in the gradual leak of the refrigerant gas out of the system at 15 to 20 percent rate annually.

Now listen to this. Make sure that you switch on your air conditioning for at least 5 minutes every week even during the winter season because an unused A/C can result in seals that become dry and deterioration of the air conditioning. The worse thing that could happen is the failure of the A/C to even work.

For those who are concerned about servicing and re-gassing of the air conditioning system, here are few ideas and insights about the A/C system servicing and re-gassing procedure.

To complete the service and re-gassing, a minimum of one hour is required. So, a time period less than 1 hour can mean that the process is not really done correctly. The amount of gas is dependent on the make and model of the car. The gas is measured by weight. A small-sized car can gulp up to half a kilo of refrigerant, while a luxury car, with climate control, can guzzle as much as 1/2 kilos of gas.

Remember that your A/C system must be serviced every 12 - 18 months to ensure utmost performance. Should the air conditioning system runs on a low refrigerant level, the compressor will need extra effort, which in return reduce life span. It’s better when your car air conditioning runs regularly as it is good for the systems health. As mentioned earlier, it's advisable that you switch on your A/C for a short period of time, regardless of the weather. By using it regularly, it ensures that the rubber seals and gaskets in the system remain lubricated, thus prevents leak.

Do you get bothered by the bad odor inside your car? How will you make it smell fresh again? Well, the bacteria, microorganisms or fungal growth at the back of the dashboard on the evaporator usually cause strong smell. When the fan blows air, these organisms are blown into the car atmosphere. Having the car air conditioning system serviced will positively help to get rid of these bacteria, leaving your ride smelling fresh all the time. So there you go. Keeping your A/C at its peak performance will not just save you from those costly and frequent visits to your repair shop and automotive stores, it gives you not one but many convenient driving all throughout the life of your car.

Know how to boost your gas mileage

2008-04-22T00:06:00.000-07:00

Prices are going up, and gas price is not far from that truth. We certainly don’t want to entertain that fact, who would anyway? But, whether we like it or not, though no one wants it, the sad truth is it’s going to happen. Solutions? Think, think, think. Here’s one that will protect the environment and even your budget. We are all aware that one of the main sources of pollution is the exhaust gases produced by cars. It's time to stop polluting the earth and realize that if we continue, we are still the ones who will suffer the consequence.

Here’s is a great way to boost gas mileage and lessen the pollution. Know what it is? Use water. Yes, you’ve heard it right, water. Use it as fuel for your car instead of paying bucks for your gallons of gas. You can have your car running in water with lesser cost than the usual. You will see that the benefits will be terrific. Why would you hate it when you will be able to save your money while increasing gas mileage? The process is a lot easy. All you have to is to set up a few parts on your car and afterwards, you will improve your mileage around 40 percent. Not bad. The method was introduced on Project Energy show and is used by many car owners all over the world, by those who are tired of spending more than the average cost of gas price. Thus, make way for an efficient approach to increase gas mileage which in return will help to improve mileage, to save money on gas, to reduce pollution and many other ways. Why not try it? Make your car burn water as the best solution to get rid of that pricey gas. Instead of spending more for your gas, why not save the money for other important payments, like your rent or your car monthly rate maybe.

Geely Tiger GT: Love it, hate it

2008-04-21T23:59:00.000-07:00

It was in 1998 when Geely started to produce cars. The company had them exported from 2003 until the present time. This year of course, it became a part of the 2008 Beijing Motor show in China. Various makes and models categorically caught some good attention from the attendees of the Auto China show in Beijing, yet most of the cars came from one manufacturer – Geely, China’s domestic automaker. It presented over 20 debuts, although many were those little econocars that Chinese people are interested with right now. But what can really caught interest is the Geely Tiger GT concept. Or shall we say, this is one vehicle from Geely that is getting a lot of attention for many reasons. Bet you, this one will surely make its manufacturer proud with its all-Chinese design concept. The Geely Tiger GT is apparently powered by a 3.5L V6 producing 225 horsepower and 340 pound-feet of torque. It rides on 19-inch concept wheels; the concept's motor would appear to have a tough time backing up the shear intensity of the coupe's design. It's got chrome fangs too. How about that? When you look at it, it clearly shows its distinctiveness from the rest, meaning it looks nothing like any other car on the road. Have you seen it? Well, like it or not, the company makes no regret for this new coupe concept which acquires its shape from the Italian school of design and puts in some unambiguous Chinese feel into it. See the grille which looks similar to a Chinese mask? Yes, that’s what we’re talking about. So don’t ever be surprised when you find more inimitable Chinese features, though some may not really find it amusing or practical. Well, as what Chinese people put it, it’s the originality. Ok, originality that is.

2010 Mercedes Benz GLK 350, this weekend at the 2008 Beijing Motor Show

2008-04-19T01:01:00.000-07:00

Townside and Freeside – the two forms of the Mercedes Benz CLK 350 which was launched in January at the Detroit Auto Show. But this weekend, at the Beijing Motor Show, the MB is set to unveil the production GLK at the Beijing Motor Show. Rumors tell that the GLK will carry one engine when it hits the U.S. market in January 2009 as a 2010 Benz model. The aggressive motor will be a 268-horsepower 3.5L V6, which can be matched with a 2-wheel-drive or 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The latter can hit 60 mph in 6.5 seconds while giving back 23 mpg. GLK carries a design that imitates CUVs that yearn for tougher look despite their distinctly non-SUV underpinnings, thus the sharp edges and angularity. Its customary 10-spoke wheels will be bigger at 19 inches, making the 20-inchers elective. Definitely, the GLK 350 will boast true Mercedes with its digital technology, feature-rich interior and abundant safety features. It will join the R-Class, M-Class, GL-Class and G-Class as the fifth SUV in the Mercedes lineup.

LED map lights: For car interior fashion and function

2008-04-19T01:00:00.000-07:00

As car owners, we’re fond of adding accessories in our cars. Some are useful while some, admit it, are plain distractions. In perking up our car interior, LED map light is very feasible. Take this. You are driving in the middle of the night and you feel like you’re losing your. Though you have the map, it is still best that your ride is provided with the LED map lights help, big help that is.

The LED map lights are specifically designed to be a flexible lighting tool not only for map documents but for other reading material that you need to check while driving. These particular map lights are drawn out that stretches and bends in whatever shape or form, to seize the precise angle. Designers of the device ensure that everything in the car interior is lighted well. So that only means that you can easily eat, read or grab something from your console with the addition of the LED map light in your car interior.

When it comes to interior lighting, these LED map lights have become really popular now. Though LED lights are known as lighting accessories for car exteriors and undercar lighting, it has been custom-made to specific car interiors due to its fine yet sharp visibility. What makes it more appealing is the fact that LED lights are cheaper, contain a low voltage requirement, get hot only after a long period of time, and best of all, it’s non-intrusive. Its impressive combination of cost efficiency and aesthetic advantages, helped it become a choice in interior lighting especially
in cars.

Different LED map lights are crafted with the car user in mind. As we all know, the car is an extension of your home. Thus everything in the car must match with everything else. Car lighting is not an exception. Therefore LED map lights come in different design in colors to suit the function that is needed from them and the structure that matches your car's interior. They can come with long handles that are very useful for wide spaces, or highly illuminates short handles to light up a wider area in the car while not being much of a fixture.

Because of the durability of LED bulbs that actually lasts for years, LED map lights can go on for longer duration less the breaking down factor unlike the neon or incandescent bulb. LED map lights can brighten your interior at an average of two years. So in case you are looking for an auto lighting accessory to get you moving into the right direction, you might as well consider getting the LED map lights.

Auto Dimming Rearview Mirror: A Way to Safer Driving

2008-04-18T01:24:00.000-07:00

It’s not enough to have a clear vision when you are driving. Keeping your eyes on the road ahead does not suffice either. So does it mean that you need additional devices to keep a clear track of the road? Actually yes. The answer lies in the rearview mirror that will help drivers guarantee the security of rear seat occupants. The advantage doesn’t end there. They help when park your ride in a constrained space, maybe in your garage or at car park.

The real benefit of the rearview mirror is gained when it has the auto-dim feature. When the headlights are switched on, it’s not good when you have them right in your eyes every time another vehicle passes by. So can you just imaging how annoying it is when the glare of the car behind you is reflected in your rearview mirror and you don’t know for how long it will last? Auto-dimming rearview mirrors dim out when headlights are detected behind your car. They are equipped with chic sensors and electronic circuitry to identify glare from rearward approaching cars that makes them automatically darken when intense beams are spotted, thus preventing excessive glare and preserving vision. Apart from their regular features and the element of safety, auto-dimming rearview mirrors add safety to nighttime driving.

With their potential, auto-dimming rearview mirrors are progressively included in new auto models from the factory since they manufactured and designed to meet OEM standards which guarantees proper fit and function. Because you need not manually adjust your rearview mirror when headlights glare into it, you drive safely with of your hands on the steering wheel.

If a rearview mirror is indispensable to safe driving, especially for reading out the direction in which you are traveling, why enjoy the additional features to it? Certain auto-dimming rearview mirrors are now equipped with practical, interesting and enjoyable features such as a green digital outside temperature display. And that’s not all. It likewise features the useful electronic compass with digital display readout. An ice indicator is added which displays (for a minute) when temperature read at or below 37 degrees. In this way, the driver is cautioned about impending road-icing conditions. And the most impressive of all its features? The video display which automatically shows through the mirror glass when the car is shifted into reverse mode and disappears when it is shifted back into other gears.

Meet and greet the hottest Opel Insignia

2008-04-18T01:18:00.000-07:00

The latest Opel Insignia takes hints from the GTC. It helped to stir up the all-new sedan, with an extended fascia, beefy standpoint and intensely drawn side blades that extend from the front fenders to run similar with the side sills. The previous V-bar has been zeroed in favor of a broader grille, flattered by a new Vauxhall logo and a pair of intake ducts. Smart headlights feature daytime running lamps. Good thing is the option for use of LED lighting on higher-spec prototypes. The rear is amply swoopy, with a narrowed tail and soft haunches, while the rear badge does two roles - trunk release button and adornment.

Compared to aging Vectra, Insignia is 21 cm longer and 5 cm wider. It features additional 35 mm tacked onto its wheelbase. Three models will be available – the hatchback, wagon and the standard saloon. Power comes from selection of three diesels or four gasoline-powered engines, with the former producing 110 hp to 160 hp, and the latter releasing 115 hp from the standard four-cylinder or 260 hp from the range-topping V6. Power is directed to either the front or all 4-wheels through a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic. The Opel Insignia will be launched at the London Motor Show in July and land showrooms in the UK in October.

Is your car in great shape?

2008-04-17T00:34:00.000-07:00

You might get tired hearing this over again but keeping your car in tiptop condition is highly important and that’s for sure. Maintaining its good shape will not only give comfort but also freedom to drive wherever and whenever you feel like its. If you are thinking of your safety, you need to make sure that you check your car by a qualified mechanic on a regular basis.

It’s not enough to check the components visually. You need to checks the parts mechanically, say for example, you need to check major parts including the brakes, suspension, timing belts and a lot more. When we say check, we mean the inspection, adjustment or replacement of the car parts for optimum performance. And it’s not just regular maintenance checks. Perform maintenance of the parts when it calls for it, even if it’s not yet time for the regular maintenance. This is what we’re saying. You can’t expect a definite schedule of car maintenance. It differs depending on the type of a car and driving condition. Dealers have different recommended schedule from the manufacturer service manual. With that, some maintenance jobs have equivalent service intervals while others are not. So choose a dealer who has a longer list of checks.
Here are common maintenance checks. It includes check or change of engine oil and fuel filters, inspection and replacement of wipers, inspection of tire pressure and wear and tear and tire balancing and rotation and wheel alignment, inspection of brake pads and brake fluids, checking and refilling of transmission, brake, and power steering fluids, flushing of radiator, checking and refilling engine coolant, inspecting and replacing spark plugs and air filters, inspection of timing belt, cleaning and adjustment of throttle body, lubricating locks, latches and hinges, checking all lights and horns, car washing.

More importantly, there are some major mechanical checks that require more attention. These are very important and may not be done in the usual maintenance. These include the CV joints, suspension bushes and steering. Brakes are made to slow down the vehicle by change of kinetic energy to thermal energy. The application of brakes causes the brake shoes or pads to squeeze in to the brake drum or rotor. This accommodates friction and energy is converted from kinetic into heat or thermal energy. The cooling of the brakes disperses the heat and the vehicle slows down. Auto manufacturers provide recommendation on certain types of brakes to be used on their cars. Care brakes need to be checked when your car goes for maintenance checks. Should it suffers from extreme brake fade, you can replace it with better quality and more aggressive brake pads.

A lot of modern vehicles are front-wheel-drive, and they are all equipped with constant velocity joint or CV-joints used to transmit engine torque to the front wheels. The CV-joint is greased inside and sealed by a rubber boot that tends to break. Once the CV-joint boot breaks, the grease comes out, the dirt and water enters and the whole axle unit may fail. The CV joint is found on the internal side of each of the front wheels. Check the CV joint boots by looking inside the front wheel arch from the front of your car with the wheel turned outside. The boot should be dry. If it's broken, the result would be grease that is splashed all over the area. When the boot is broken, it has to be replaced because if it not replaced in time, you need to replace the entire axle shaft. You would not want costly replacements, right? So to sum up, maintain your car and all of its parts even the accessories so you won’t have to get troubled by inefficiency and bad look.

Global Positioning Systems in your car

2008-04-16T01:12:00.000-07:00

Security is extremely important to everyone. Security concerns are escalating in all parts of the world, be it to your family, your property, your belongings, even your vehicle in which I think, you put much of your investment. You may never know when you will badly need security. Because of that, GPS car systems provide a solution intended for your vehicle’s security. GPS mean Global Positioning Systems. It is a navigational system mainly used for navigation as well as land surveying, treks and applications in scientific processes. These systems are also found on boats, cars, trucks, mobile phones and so many other surveillance applications for definite use.
These are the 4 types of GPS systems which can be classified as Car navigational systems, portable outdoor GPS units, GPS hybrid and marine GPS systems. For more popular ones, here are your choices – the Magellan Maestro 4000 portable auto GPS system, Streetpilot c550 automotive GPS system and Garmin car GPS system. China automotive GPS system makers are manufacturing security systems at cheaper rates, which might be a good option should price starts to concern you.

But before you get one for your ride, perhaps you might want to know and understand fully well how the GPS visual interface operates. Essentially, GPS auto tracking systems makes use of satellites for information in order to guide you whenever you are in your car. Customarily, your position is visible on the navigation map of the GPS screen while a voice prompt guides you whenever you need assistance from it. GPS is indeed beneficial. That is because car GPS systems can help to track stolen vehicles in real time. That one’s a must-have you should not definitely miss. It’s highly important when your vehicle is missing or gets stolen. Through GPS systems, you can have better surveillance of trucks, buses and cabs.

And why not get the GPS systems? Having the auto GPS systems means carrying a diminutive and an easy-to-install security device in your machine. Don’t you hate bulky stuffs? Well, here’s practical equipment that will not concern you regarding that aspect. The so-called advanced technological car monitoring systems also gauges the direction and the speed your car is driving. This of course is intended to keep you safe and on course while you are on the road. Car GPS systems are simple and helpful to use when you need to identify your exact position without the use of a road map.

If you are planning to provide a GPS tracking system for your car, be sure that you choose one which has live voice instructions along with visual maps, while you are driving. Live voice absolutely helps you to avoid looking into the device frequently. Likewise, voice instructions can be very helpful in getting you where you need to go particularly if you happen to drive all by yourself.

High-quality GPS car systems have an important feature of Real Time tracking with a live wireless network that enables you to cross check directions as well as get an update on the visual information on hand. Since GPS tracking systems are used for navigation and monitoring, it is best to choose quality more than the price tag. Beware of low-priced systems as they may seem eye-catching in the beginning but failure rates are high. Most GPS units are user-friendly without too much technical language that you might not be able to understand clearly.

Here’s the best part. When you have teenage kids who also drive the car, most GPS companies offer tracking at very minimal cost as the safety of your children is a major consideration. And if your car didn't come with a GPS system yet, this might be the right time for you to get one.

Lug less wheels, anyone?

2008-04-12T00:56:00.000-07:00

Back then, they were knock-offs. Now they are one lug wheel. Yes you got it right. The unique retainer, pin-drive wheel is doing a comeback. When the lug less was added to the revamped Chevrolet Cobalt, the car has gained attention from various spots. Oh well, how can the One Lug Wheel pass anybody’s eye? This may not be surprising to racing buffs but to every vehicle owner, it could be. Race track fans know that race cars use wheels with a single central retainer to facilitate quick changes. The One Lug Wheels system seems to introduce a similarity. A hub adapter is held to the lugs, which then permits the fitment of the suitable wheels. But is it advantageous? The clean look of the wheel is but the entire system adds weight. Also, it possibly augments the sideload on the wheel bearing. The safety margin that multiple fasteners transport is canceled in favor of a trendy wheel nut. For those who feel at ease with tradeoffs and favor the neat wheel center, the One Lug Wheels is soon to offer its wheels and mounting system to you. You may not be into the tuner scene, yet it could be might be the sure way to add them up your ride.

Hydrogen-Powered Cars: To be or not to be

2008-04-12T00:50:00.000-07:00

Hydrogen cars had a fair share of attention from auto enthusiasts. It somehow became a hit. Among the factors which made it known and preferred by many is the fact that hydrogen never lacks and the only exhaust emission is environment-friendly water vapor. There is a big distinction between the supply of hydrogen and fossil fuel. Although there were concerns regarding emission of nitrogen oxides, it never affected the use of hydrogen-powered vehicles since proper engine timing and optimized hydrogen concentrations were discovered that they minimize, much more eliminate, the formation of nitrogen oxides, which in return results to acid rain and contribute to global warming.

The hydrogen with fuel cells and the modified internal combustion engine are the two approaches to hydrogen vehicles. Hydrogen cars that use both hydrogen and gasoline have two separate tanks that the driver can switch between easily. Nowadays having dual tanks, like in the US, is a must-have since hydrogen refueling stops are rare until now - little more than 100 in the entire US. This permits the car to run on regular fuel as required. Though not focused on the "green", yet we can say it’s practical. It was found out that hydrogen cars using fuel cells gain twice the range on the same amount of hydrogen. The hydrogen responds with oxygen to generate water vapor exhaust and the electricity needed to power an electric motor.

But here is the problem that concerns the use of hydrogen as a fuel – hydrogen is not an actual fuel. It just stores energy that has to be taken out from the hydrogen to supply power. So how will you be able to get that energy released without using fossil fuels? Here is another one. The way you need to store it in the hydrogen car. To keep hydrogen liquid, it should be kept at -253 degrees Celsius. Warmer degree than that and it will surely turn back to gas. The methods used now make use of super-insulated tanks with elaborate venting systems to permit the warming gas to move out. Perhaps, these problems need to be addressed first before we indulge in hydrogen cars because we have to make sure that we are choosing well and we are using resources properly. And of course, hydrogen fueling stations should be a big concern too. If we can deal with all that considerations, perhaps affordable hydrogen cars are certainly a possibility in the future, after all hydrogen is not limited.

2008 Dodge Challenger

2008-04-10T00:21:00.000-07:00

Exterior

The 2008 Dodge Challenger features an aggressive front grille and signature lines, along with its watertight sculpture, starting with the dual round headlamps and then the air inlet ducts and the dual rectangular exhaust tips. Wait no longer for its 6.1-liter SRT HEMI V8 as well as its body-color folding mirrors. This only proves Challenger’s class of its own – chaste, modern strength. Challenger's comes completely warmed up as you roll the pavement with standard 20 - inch fully-forged aluminum wheels. Equipped with standard high-performance four-season tires – lighter but stronger tires: three-season tires with asymmetrical tread are optional.

Interior

Style. An inviting Dodge Challenger interior awaits you. Allow your eyes to glide at the monochromatic dark slate gray interior. Leather-trimmed front buckets with forceful bolstering, suede micro fiber inserts and center console that angles up wraps you up in excitement.
It's more than just a throwback; it's a step forward. So get in and challenge the road ... performance is comfortable again.

Entertainment. Still with interior, its infotainment system with satellite radio is likewise added with a full-color touch screen LCD display that features AM/FM/CD stereo, DVD and MP3 as well as up to a 30 GB hard drive with USB 2.0 port for storing music and digital photos. Get on with the voice-activated GPS navigation system to ask for directions, discover new amusements and be provided with real-time traffic updates and a lot else. What more can you ask for?

Audio. Combined with standard AM/FM stereo with six-disc changer, DVD audio and MP3, the factory-tuned and system brings all the excitement. Three enticing speakers in the dash, a full-range speaker in each door, two sweet-talk speakers in the rear shelf, and 10-inch square subwoofer in the trunk deliver less maximum harmonic twist. Upgraded cone materials boost the frequency response of the parts and offer greater and smoother acoustic result. A major amplifier, with the subwoofer amplifier, carries a total of 520 watts.

EVIC/Hands-free phone. This is the Electronic Vehicle Information Center. Features digital display that gives you decisive stats such as average miles per gallon, compass, miles to empty, trip odometer, elapsed time and maintenance intervals. Be stunned with the 0-60 timer, digital speedometer, braking distance and timer, G-force meter, 1/4 mile and 1/8 mile timers. Receive calls while keeping focus with hands-free communication system that allows you to do and receive calls through voice activation technology. Also featured are onboard phonebook, conference calling and compatibility with up to 7 capable phones.

Performance

Engine. 425-horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque at 4800 rpm is the maximum specific-output engine in a Challenger. Performance camshaft profiles, redesigned cylinder heads and intake and exhaust systems help make the most of airflow and boost speed. Also included are reinforced engine block with increased coolant flow, forged steel crankshaft, high-strength powdered-metal connecting rods, floating-pin pistons and an oil pan that minimizes oil foaming.
Transmission. It’s a 5-speed Automatic. The true 5-gear shift range brings better balance of performance and fuel economy, shift quality, torque management and responsiveness. With the standard SRT-tuned AutoStick, switch from automatic gear range to a clutchless manual operation within winks.

Handling and Control. Rear-wheel drive ensures that Challenger corners seamlessly and brings better traction.

Safety and Security

On intense steering maneuvers, the standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system can help sustain control. The system automatically provides individual brakes or controls the throttle to make you stay safely on course. SRT braking creates a performance trifecta with acceleration and speed. Low-drag, aluminum calipers give maximum pedal feel and receptiveness, while ducts in front keep the system cooled. The standard antilock braking system helps maintain steering control and provides shorter stopping distances during emergency braking circumstances.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System. Tire protection is important for safety, security, performance and fuel economy. The TPMS indicates a warning indicator light in the instrument panel to alert the driver of inappropriate pressure levels.

Protection

Air Bag and Theft Prevention. The Challenger is equipped with standard, advanced multistage driver and passenger front air bags and side curtain air bags, safety and security. And because its amenities are that appealing, you don’t know when somebody might just run a hand. Prevent it through security alarm and key fob that lock or unlock the doors and trunk from up to hundred feet away from your Challenger.

2009 Jaguar XF

2008-04-09T22:21:00.000-07:00

This year, Jaguar officially launched its new XF sedan. The 2009 Jaguar XF is lavish and spacious. The new Ford prototype has an easy-on-the-ear V8, handles exceptional and simply gorgeous. Its beefy looks may not stir up any particular Jaguar, but the fresh take on the trademark gets on with packaging and safety benefits that go with a sleek style. Three words are in for Jaguar – grace, space and pace. For those who’ve been expecting all these three – you won’t be disappointed with the latest XF.

The XF comes in three trim choices: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Supercharged. The rear-wheel-drive, 4-door, 5-seater includes 18-inch wheels, electrically adjustable steering column and leather front seats, side and side-curtain airbags, automatic speed limiter, tire-pressure-monitoring system, rear parking assist and electronic parking brake. Ventilated seats, a blind-spot-monitoring system and adaptive cruise control are optional. Its front wishbone and rear multilink suspension uses parts polished from the nimble Jaguar XK coupe, and the XF’s sleek profile even matches the windshield and backlight angle of Jaguar’s flexible 2-door. The Supercharged (S/C) version provides a more solid electronically controlled adaptive suspension, bigger brakes and average 20-inch wheels for its sporting job.

In the U.S., motivational option is between supercharged (420-horsepower) 4.2-liter V8 engine and normally aspirated (300-horsepower). Both V8 engines are matched with a 6-speed automatic transmission, and the drive mode is selected through a rotary knob that rises from the center console upon ignition. Manual gear control is available through standard, steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, though a remarkably perceptive and entertaining Sport program is available in full automatic mode. An adjustable traction/stability-control system is standard — including a Winter mode for smooth conditions. Far-reaching efforts were done to tune out inharmonious mechanical sounds that could come from under the XF’s ripple hood, leaving a reserved and melodic V8 sound to fill the cabin. When given the cane, the V8 purrs in a motivating tone.

The XF has a clean, bright, friendly and modern interior, with an extensive use of aluminum and elegant wood inflection. The XF’s inviting cabin is spacious enough to keep clients or even in-laws happy, and it's richly appointed leather seating and cutting-edge interior should help you feel wealthy no matter where your commute ends. On all XFs, the rear seatbacks can be folded down, increasing the already impressive space in the 17.1-cubic-foot trunk. Storage space is copious, with a functional center console, huge cupholders, big storage pockets in each door and pockets on the backs of the front seats. Plus, it offers a series of tech features like full iPod integration, Bluetooth phone syncing and touch-screen display. Cool lighting accents the car’s switch gear. Hard buttons for the most frequently used controls complements the spontaneous touch-screen. The 14-speaker, 440-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround-sound setup is one of the advanced audio systems ever offered from a manufacturer.

The XF’s new chassis is the hardest in its class, (that’s according to Jaguar), and the brusque platform allows for lithe suspension tuning. Road contortions? The XF can handle it well. It is more pleasantly tuned for potholes and daily commutes, while still proving concise body control. In terms of suspension settings, the S/C version is categorically firm, and stays planted and flat on more lanes, showing very little body roll. Considering its 20-inch wheels and low-profile rubber, the S/C model is truly impressive.

That’s not all. The 2009 XF’s steering hit a balance between control effort and feedback. Although it’s lighter than the Teutonic competition, it proves utmost precision. Pooled with exact steering, the upside of the tough chassis and nifty suspension tuning is a machine that conceals road imperfections. Ultimately, the XF is an essentially sporty ride.

Two Audi models planned for lightweight “Sport”

2008-04-09T01:38:00.001-07:00

Even with the numerous models produced by automakers, they surely want to add more to the pack. And Audi is among them and there’s no stopping it. These days, Audi is planning to develop more options of models R8 and the TT. On top of it, rumor revolves around that the automaker is going to fit the models with high-output engines to manufacture RS variants. The TT-RS is projected to include a turbocharged, 5-cylinder engine that will make for approximately 350 hp and the R8 will profit from forms of forced induction, with either a V8 or V10 mill taking the place of the existing 4.2-liter V8 as well as the V12 TDI mill. As with weight reduction, well, we’re waiting.

Audi, according to Inside Line, is taking into account the "Sport" options of both models, a concept that was carried out way back in 2005 with the launch of the TT Quattro Sport that featured a minor bump in power, modified suspension, Recaro thrones and zeroed a number of extra materials inside. Bu the truth is, the modifications did not materialize Stateside.

The latest "Sport" versions of TT and R8 model are set to use a related viewpoint. With the R8, it could mean an advance in power (as much as 500 hp), but restricting comforts such as climate control and stereo, heated seats, replacing the hood, engine cover, dash, doors and roof with carbon fiber elements. Some carbon ceramic brakes were thrown that could drop the R8's curb weight by some 200 pounds, reducing its 0-60 time into the high 3-second range and paying share in the handling department. With these plans from Audi, we’ll still have to wait if they are going to be launched soon.

Charitable VW

2008-04-09T01:37:00.000-07:00

Isn’t it really inspiring to see anybody dole out something for the benefit of others, especially to those who are in great need? Well, two icons from the 1960s were up for that. We are referring to German auto manufacturer Volkswagen and 60’s musicians The Who. They joined forces for a good cause and that is to help the charity lend a hand to suffering young people, such as teenagers. Together with the Teenage Cancer Trust, Volkswagen and The Who, decided to give their full support.

The Who is the English rock band who popularized one of its most prominent songs “Magic Bus” which is about a public transport vehicle. In cooperation with VW, the band performed at a 60th anniversary affair intended for Volkswagen's seminal transporter in Hanover, Germany in 2007.

This year, it is going to be more exciting both for the band and the automaker. If you’re wondering how the fund raising is going to run, here’s how. The Who will be holding a concert to open a lottery to win a 1965 split-windscreen bus provided by VW Commercial Vehicles. What’s more exciting is the fact that the bus will carry a paint scheme that is designed by the band's art director, Richard Evans. The imagery of band members on the bus appears to be from a time when Roger Daltrey can sing "hope I die before I get old" with passion. The vehicle will be on display right outside London's Royal Albert Hall until the 13th of April this year. A £5 will get you a ticket for a chance to win the bus. Plus, they will give you free download of an unreleased live version of Magic Bus. So with the graciousness of the cause and the little cost of entries, let’s all wish a very favorable result of this endeavor (from VW and The Who) to help more people. We also hope more auto makers follow the same undertaking to aid the youth most of all.

Bugatti Veyron to appear in the NFS ProStreet videogame

2008-04-08T00:58:00.000-07:00

Hey kids, kids at heart, fanatics who love speed more than anything else, watch out you guys. Better listen well to this. You know that if you own an Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3, the excitement, delight and thrill are nothing but amusing, right? But then, if you are one of those who choose to dig up their horsepower and adrenaline in front of the computer, well this one’s absolutely for you! Wouldn’t you feel a little left out because the list of latest and newest cars? For what? For videogames such as Forza 2 and the upcoming GT5 Prologue which have been flowing like there’s no other time to catch up but today.

So let’s specify things up now. This is one of the great news for racing enthusiasts on any platform because Electronic Arts has proclaimed a new update for its Need for Speed: ProStreet videogame. ProStreet is the eleventh installment of the well-liked and trendy Need for Speed series, with versions on-hand for Xbox, Playstation and PC. The latest bit of DLC or downloadable content has been highly expected to incorporate two fresh tracks and not less than 16 new cars. Yes, that much. One of them is the Bugatti Veyron, though not specified if it’s going to be the Pur Sang edition, or is it? I’ll be glad to know if it is. The street-racing theme of the game feels like an unusual choice for Bugatti for it to endow its first license, but unveils the question as to whether we will still see the Veyron come out in other games. For the moment, expect that the impressive model from Bugatti won't be the only new exciting piece of virtual machinery streaming to a system in front of you, because the pack is also anticipated to include Aston Martin DBR9, Audi R8, Koenigsegg CCX and McLaren F1, just to name a few. You can’t blame the automakers who have been starting to line up like their customers to get their supercars onto the latest driving simulators. Lip smacking wheels, all of it and expecting more.

Another year for Daytona

2008-04-08T00:57:00.000-07:00

2008 was not just another year for Daytona because this year, it is 40th anniversary of the iconic 365 GTB/4 Daytona. But while Lotus marked its 60th anniversary a few years early, Italian top brand Ferrari decided to commemorate Daytona's 40th birthday a year later. This makes some degree of sense when you think about how the company was quite hectic and how efforts were put together early on for its extravagant global 60th anniversary celebrations.

In Geneva Motor Show this year, we were just awed by the display at its show stand. Ferrari had a stunning specimen for all who were present to see and marvel. A nice Ferrari Daytona was seen next to her. A few days ago, the company invited the owners of 20 Daytonas from around the world to the factory's Fiorano test track in Maranello, across the 330km Circuito delle tre province. This is the place where Enzo Ferrari retreated from racing, and on to the Mugello track, which is likewise owned by Ferrari, in celebration of the second year of the Mugello Historic Festival. It went very well and good. Yet with Ferrari verifying to carry a new model to the Paris show in October and test mules with noticeably Daytona-like headlights running around Italy, you just can't help but wonder whether Maranello is planning a more long-term tribute to the well-known grand tourer or what. Or maybe we can just hope that it’s going to happen anytime soon or in the next celebrations for Daytona’s anniversaries.

The Limited Edition Opel Corsa

2008-04-08T00:55:00.000-07:00

Another supermini was launched this year. General Motors’ subsidiary Opel introduced the Opel Corsa at the Leipzig Motor Show. It was in celebration of the 10-millionth Opel Corsa since its first year way back in 1982, over two decades ago. Russelheim unveiled the Corsa Limited Edition to the public. The design of the Limited Edition Corsa was a joint effort, specifically employing the input of 120 trainees to help the car appeal to youthful customers. It certainly appeals to us looks-wise. This prototype carries the Ecotec power, displacing 1.2- or 1.4-liters and shoving 80 and 90 horsepower. This Corsa Limited Edition sits on a sport-tuned suspension system along with its 17-inch rims that cover up the red brake calipers. The production of the limited supermini will be restricted at 1,000 units and all of which will be in Casablanca White but with distinguishing design provided by black portion on the roof and wheels, alongside its dark-tinted rear glass. Love the exterior color scheme that is mirrored inside, wherein the three-door carries the standard air conditioning as well as an MP3-capable audio system with a back up input. So, if you're lucky enough to be where you can pay for one of the limited Corsas, stack up those bucks in your palm now, you just might decide to visit that Opel store you’ve been eyeing.

Nissan: LCVing into the U.S. market

2008-04-08T00:54:00.000-07:00

Here is a big news comes from one of the biggest automakers, Nissan that is. And what was the fuss all about? Rumors, well yeah news, has it that Nissan North America has pronounced that it will be getting into the Light Commercial Vehicle business in the United States – in a BIG way, according to the company. Right now, Nissan is looking for a way to fill up its excess facility at its plant in Canton after the production of the Quest minivan and Infiniti QX56 got elsewhere. In connection with that, Nissan will launch 3 new light commercial vehicles over the next three years of manufacturing. These vehicles are set to use the transmissions from the ZF model and a pair of recently designed Cummins diesel engines.

Seems like the brand is seriously dealing with its upcoming LCVs. Why? Because Canton plant will obtain over a hundred million dollar makeover to manufacture these vehicles. But then again, the standard Nissan Altima sedan, Titan pickup and Armada full-size SUV will be the ones to grace the production plants for the period in-between. Nissan's present dealer network will be the one to sell and service the LCVs, which will likewise need adequate preparations.

Here is how the launch will take place for Nissan LCVs. The first LCV will make its official debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January next year. According to Nissan, it’s going to be a fresh sheet design. More than producing commercial-grade types of the Titan or import any number of the commercial vehicles it sells outside the U.S., Nissan will be producing the 3 LCVs for the North American market (in particular), which hints a significant investment on its part. The automaker said that the vehicles is likely to leave the Canton plant as chassis cabs and prepared to meet the particular needs of its customers. With the influx of the Ford Transit Connect and with the panel wagons that’s making a come-back in the U.S., it is a bright idea for Nissan. With the failure of the full-size truck market to market these days, hitting upon another position in the commercial zone to sell vehicles is a nice way for automakers to get around. With this new endeavor of Nissan, all the good luck should come right now for the brand.

The updated 2009 Buick Excelle for China

2008-04-05T01:54:00.000-07:00

Anyone who remembered the Buick Excelle? It is the small but extravagantly chosen Buick sedan that is exclusively sold in China. This prototype is everything that the Cadillac Cimarron was not. Well, the Chinese populace just loves it. And since china adores this model, here’s something that can brighten their chinky eyes all the more I guess. Ready? The little Buick Excelle is going to get updated for 2009 and will make its debut to the Chinese car lovers at the upcoming Beijing Motor show that will unveil in a few weeks from now. The restructured version will feature a facelift that brings its facade more in-a-row with the flagship model for Buick in China, the Holden Statesman-based Park Avenue.

Although it is going to much smaller than the usual, the updated Excelle is set to give off an air of richness that is surprising considering its groundwork. It is based on the Chevy/Daewoo Lacetti platform, which also happens to underpin the Suzuki Reno in the U.S. So that only proves that the vast world of cars totals to rather one small world, right? That’s just my opinion though. Modifications to the Buick Excelle's exterior looks like it incorporate a few extra folds up front. More than that, a reorganized rear end with some real good sculpting around the shoulder line plus an enhanced interior. Isn’t it really exciting? I bet China is going to watch out keenly on this four-door car from Buick. Ok, so if this appears greatly for China, is the feeling mutual going to be mutual for U.S. consumers? We can’t be sure.

Team Modena at the 2008 Le Mans Barcelona

2008-04-05T01:53:00.000-07:00

The 2008 Le Mans Series Race opens on a weekend, April 5, 2008 at Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain. The 2008 season starts with a 1000km race at the Circuit de Catalunya near Barcelona. Once again, Team Modena Aston Martin DBR9 is to be the front-runner in the GT1 category. With the car now running to the latest factory specification and a tough driver line-up featuring Team Modena residents Antonio Garcia and Tomas Enge, the team has high hopes of starting the season with a bang, with a remarkable performance more than ever.

Garcia has driven more for the team. He completed more races in the Team Modena Aston Martin than any other driver. He raced two times at Le Mans and once at Sebring for Team Modena. Comes 2008 when he was joined by the experienced Tomas Enge who has raced in Formula One and has DBR9 experience with Aston Martin Racing which includes the American Le Mans Series and Le Mans in recent seasons of the race. Garcia and Enge had a successful test of the car at Donington Park recently.

In the GT1 category this weekend, opponents come from some of the exceptionally experienced car and driver combos. First of all, the Saleen is always swift in LMS competition, and the two Chevrolet Corvettes from the Luc Alphand Adventures team will be something to watch out for, as usual. The 215-laps of the 1000km of Catalunya is set to begin at 11:35 in the morning on Sunday April 6th, with a 15-minute qualifying session for the GT1 cars at 2:15 on Saturday afternoon.

The connection between Team Modena and Bell Motorsport had its competition unveiling at the recent Sebring 12-hours race, with Modena crew and driver Antonio Garcia helping the team who ran second in the GT1 class for much of the race with Aston Martin. Team Modena’s presence stimulated media speculation about the team's future plans on the American Le Mans Series. For that we have to watch out for more updates both from Team Modena and Aston Martin.

Great driving through Ford innovations

2008-04-03T00:23:00.000-07:00

Over the years, Ford has been committed to bringing high-end road machines. More auto enthusiasts were fascinated by the vibrant performance of some of the automaker’s models and the brand’s lengthy history of success in the motorsports field. At the most, it has helped ford to bring back its commitment to providing more development and advancements in auto dynamics as well as other aspects.

Ford makes driving more fun. Ford cars and vehicles are intended to offer both safety and comfort. To make them prominent and largely appeal to the enthusiasts, the company designed unique vehicle dynamics features that lets your Ford car perform optimally even under unfavorable weather conditions and rough surfaces.

The daily challenges of the road. More than the desire to make vehicles more thrilling to everybody, Ford engineers are deemed to respond to the changing demands on present vehicle suspensions. Take this for an example. When consumers demand higher fuel efficiency, Ford engineers should develop ways to make suspensions lighter. Thus, they now build fresher ideas using new and high-end materials and design to boost driving, steering and braking performance and thus respond to the demand.

Global Vehicle Dynamic Department. To direct the improvement effort and help guarantee Ford Motor’s global leadership, it created a committed vehicle dynamics organization, the Global Vehicle Dynamics (GVeD) Department. It is located in Belgium and Germany and is set to build up segment-tailored, vehicle-specific rides and more handling features and technologies such as enhanced automotive suspension, steering performance and braking systems. The company is making momentous progress in constant improvement of suspension concepts while it also works on more technologies such as the Ford Active Steering, Steering System Test Machine, Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control and Continuously Controlled Damping.

Ford dynamics on its vehicles. When it comes to advancements, Ford engineers do not just stop with their bright ideas. They are more concerned with practical applications while still making Ford vehicles more exciting to drive. Here are the technologies they’ve come up with.

• Continuously Controlled Damping (CCD) & EEMM; CCD regulates a vehicle's pitch and roll by supervising and regulating the damper rate every two tenths of a second based on variations in vehicle speed, road surface characteristics and other factors. The CCD feature debuted on Ford's all-new 2006 S-MAX and Galaxy as an option. Customers can choose their ride preference from one of the three settings: Sport, Normal or Comfort.
• 2006 Ford Focus World Rally Car & EEMM – GVeD engineers improved the new Ford World Rally Car suspension and supported in the development of the rear-axle trailing arm. Following a short 11-month development time, the car won quite a few World Rally races in 2006 and fulfilled its successful first year in competition by winning the FIA WRC Manufacturers' Championship.
• Interactive Vehicle Dynamics Control (IVDC) &EEMM; IVDC shows how effective system integration (particularly the vehicle dynamics systems) advances performance in future vehicles. One example of system integration is the use of CCD and ESC systems that is available on the 2006 Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models. Then the ESC system endeavors to alleviate the vehicle in case of loss of stability with actions on the engine and brakes, the CCD system boosts the suspension performance. It further permits the driver to choose a different suspension setting. The interaction between these two systems improves the dynamic behavior and minimizes the stopping distance on rough road surfaces as ABS braking is applied. Electronics and software will take big parts in future vehicle performance. The IVDC strategy was built to meet the challenge of future vehicle dynamics claims, and software is the answer.

So folks, this is how Ford does it and we hope it keeps going.

2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe

2008-04-02T23:18:00.001-07:00

Today, Rolls-Royce settles in Goodwood, United Kingdom and is manufacturing the Phantom prototypes where the Phantom Coupe is included. The Phantom Coupe is a massive automobile in the grandest of tradition. You remember the Drophead coupe? It is based from this soft-top model, sharing most of its aspects. The engine and corresponding power remain the same, but its 453 bhp and 531 lb.-ft. of torque from the 6.75-liter V-12 should be more than enough. It provides power to the rear wheels with its 6-speed automatic transmission. Then, the fuel capacity was augmented by 25% over the convertible edition. Its lower tailgate can be positioned for a two adult seating platform, the “picnic boot.” It rides on a 130.7 inches wheelbase and measures 220.8 inches overall length and contains 21 inches. wheels. Plus, it keeps the Drophead’s distinctively-styled doors. The closed version comes with upgraded suspension and is set to become the sportiest in the lineup.

Car A/C: Using it properly

2008-04-02T23:16:00.000-07:00

Because the summer season is already here, it’s just so right that we learn more about discovering ways to have more convenient travels on the road with our cars. You surely hate it when you get all sweaty inside your ride while you are driving under the scorching heat of the sun. This is one of the reasons why you need to be prepared with your air conditioning system or your A/C. So, better get ready for summer with it.

Thinking about this, Honda Motors conveys a few yet very useful tips on good use and maintenance of your auto air conditioning unit not just this season but all throughout the life of your car. Any air conditioning unit is an essential device in cars today, in tropical countries, more than ever.

You will notice that in latest or recent cars, troubles concerning the parts hardly happen but after some period of time, its efficiency and beauty can gradually deteriorate, especially if unfavorable road and working conditions add up as well. Because of that, car owners should know better on how to use and maintain their car’s A/C system properly to get into some real good function and attain the best and longest ever possible service.

So here are the tips…

First, identify the A/C knob or the compressor control switch. Right after, confirm its position and know whether it is in the open or shut off position. Be sure to shut it off before you start your engine. This is done to prevent unwanted drag brought by the compressor while cranking the engine.

As soon as the engine starts to run, you need to need to witch the fan on too. Here’s one thing you must do to clear away the hot air that is caught up in the air conditioning’s ducts – blow the A/C’s fan at the highest pace for about 1 minute. After that, lower the A/C knob in order to turn the compressor on at the coolest temperature level. Then, regulate the fan speed and temperature control speed to the level that is most comfortable to you.

After you’ve done that, it’s time to switch off the compressor before you cut of the engine. Make sure that the fan is blowing at a top speed so that it is able to blow away the humidity that is caught within the so-called ‘air box’ also referred to as the evaporator. In this way, the smell of fusty air is eradicated just as you consequently turn on the A/C again. Likewise, it helps to extend the service life of the evaporator. This process only takes a couple of minutes but ensures driving convenience and A/C longevity.

The 2010 Ford Mustang

2008-04-01T01:49:00.000-07:00

Ford’s present-generation S197-platformed Mustang has been a runaway hit on sales since its introduction way back in 2005. Now, Ford is giving its ponycar its very first serious upgrade. Well, it is agreed upon that the basic details will remain the same, but the “workover” will be systematic. Coupe and convertible body styles will still be provided, with V-6 and various powertrains from the V-8.

If you think that is all, think otherwise as I’m about to give you one surprising news about the famous ponycar Mustang. It was revealed that Ford is badly contemplating about setting up the new twin turbo EcoBoost V-6 to the 2010 Mustang. Just as they try to find out how to come up with the 35mpg CAFE by 2020, Ford engineers are speculating whether the V-8 has a long term future. The EcoBoost engine, which is currently listed to debut in a performance version of the Fusion, could be the more fuel efficient option for the Mustang in the long term. Depending on the specifications, the EcoBoost is capable of providing up to 415 horsepower, with the torque to match a normal V-8 engine.

Well, for you traditionalists out there, you need not worry though as the V-8s will still be very much part of the Mustang program for year 2010. Once the EcoBoost version does make production, Ford, in all probability, will offer it along with the V-8, and allow buyers to decide which they really like. There will not be much of a distinction when it comes to pricing. Or there could be a slight difference since the base V-6 is a more affordable engine and by the time things like turbochargers are added, it's fundamentally V-8 money.

You can’t actually expect any changes in today's Mustang, with its base 4.0-liter V-6 offering, primarily because its chief purpose now is motivating low-end and rental-fleet Mustangs. But the Mustang GT model's V-8, currently a 4.6 liter, SOHC, three-valver, will be replaced by a new-fangled 5.0-liter engine that is in effect an advancement of the older auto architecture. As a matter of fact, the new 5.0 may even appear in a limited edition run-out series of present model Mustang GTs. So the question is this. Is it about time for the reborn Boss 302? Who knows…

One of the Ford engineers actually verified that the work done to create the Bullitt-edition Mustang's uprated 4.6 "has a future” in the auto world. That particular engine remains internally stock, but breathes better because of the Ford Racing open element, the cold air intake system, the revised mufflers, the latest crank damper, which ups the redline by 250 revs and the and modified fuel mapping. This is an engine management programming which permits the use of regular fuel, but switches to a more forceful timing curve when it identifies premium right there in the tank. So the result is a 315 horsepower, up from the current GT's 300. The Bullitt's V-8 is freer and faster in revving than before, and sounds great due to the new intake. There's no reason to think the next generation GT's powerplant will not take its cue from this technology, and therefore acquire the same tricks. Something like 325 to 350 horses out of the new 5.0-liter V-8 sounds viable.

So if that goes for the standard Ford Mustang prototypes, then what about the Shelbys? An intel had the 500-horsepower, supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 in the Ford Shelby GT500 attached for a two-year or so life and that being 2007 and 2008, perhaps rolling into '09 depending on how well it sold, and what Shelby's own product plans were discussed. Demand has proven tough so there will be a Ford built, developed, and produced Shelby GT500 version of the Mustang for 2010.

Ford: To sell Jaguar and Land Rover

2008-03-31T02:01:00.001-07:00

It’s final. Ford Motor Company declared that it has entered into an authoritative agreement to sell its Jaguar Land Rover business to Tata Motors. The deal is the conclusion of Ford Motor’s decision to search for strategic options for its Jaguar Land Rover operations, as the company heightens its concentration on its foundation Ford brand as well as “One Ford” worldwide revolution.

The sale is projected to close by the end of the next quarter and is subject to traditional closing conditions, including receipt of applicable regulatory approvals. The total amount to be paid in cash by Tata Motors for Jaguar Land Rover is roughly US $2.3 billion. Then at closing, Ford is to throw in to approximately US $600 million to the Jaguar Land Rover pension plans. But still, Ford will continue to supply Jaguar and Land Rover for differing periods with powertrains, stampings and other vehicle parts, in addition to environmental and platform technologies. The brand also committed to provide engineering support, like research and development, information technology, accounting and more. And, Ford Motor Credit Company will provide financing for Jaguar Land Rover dealers and customers during a transitional period of up to 12 months, which can differ by market.

Both sides believe these arrangements will support Jaguar Land Rover’s present product plans while providing Jaguar Land Rover the choice to widen its own stand-alone capabilities in the future that will best serve its best manufacturer needs.
The Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Motors said that they are very pleased at the prospect of Jaguar and Land Rover being a significant part of their auto business. They have enormous respect for the two brands and will endeavor to preserve and build on their heritage and competitiveness, keeping their identities intact. They also aspire to support their growth, while holding true to their principles of allowing the management and employees to bring their experience and expertise to bear on the growth of the endeavor. Jaguar Land Rover’s employees, trade unions and the UK Government have been kept informed of developments as the sale process advanced and have showed their support for the contract.

Ford Motor Company, an all-inclusive automotive industry brand which is based in Dearborn, Michigan, United States, manufactures or distributes automobiles in 200 markets across the six continents. With approximately 230,000 employees and about 100 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. And today, Ford concentrates on including the Ford brand globally to bring a tough Ford Motor Company that conveys profitable growth for everybody.

“Photoshopping” the Scion Hako

2008-03-31T01:58:00.001-07:00

Not all vehicles are pleasing to our eyes or tastes. Some can really get us wondering why they are included in a company’s line up after all. So does anyone know about the Scion Hako? For some, it could be just any other regular ride, but for those who are much particular with everything that’s in their vehicle, well the Hako could be a big concern for your taste. At the vehicle's introduction, Scion called its orange-hued affront to the senses a “sporty version of a box”. So what could that mean for us? I don’t exactly know too, do you? Perhaps, you might want to go off the point. Or speculate what the prototype is all about. Some were awfully uninspired by the Scion Hako that they start building a better concept by using the wonder that is called Photoshop. And the result was -- -- a mail truck, an orange coupe (both shown below), then there’s also the hot rod, a Hako-mino, and a Deora-ish pickup. Now, that’s what really makes it worth the Photoshop. Look below.

Another Honda Hybrid this time

2008-03-31T01:57:00.000-07:00

If there’s one thing that Honda is getting busy with these days, it’s the brand's upcoming out-and-out hybrid model that is expected to debut at the 2008 Paris Motor Show. According to Honda CEO Takeo Fukui, in his interview, the new car will look similar to its hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, the FCX Clarity. Although a lot of upcoming hybrid models use the lithium ion batteries (and that include the Chevy Volt and Honda's own FCX), Honda plans to keep the tried-and-true nickel metal hydride technology for its latest machine along with an engine derived from the Honda Civic's, although smaller, lighter and with newly programmed electronics. And just like the Accord and the Civic, the new hybrid model from Honda will use the same nameplate the world over; what that nameplate will be, that remains to be the secrecy. What could it possibly be?

Just as the auto world waits, it is expected to be priced lower than the Civic Hybrid and Honda hopes to sell 200,000 of this new hybrid annually. The best part of it, everyone can expect the that the new machine soon starts a battle with Toyota for supremacy in the entry-level hybrid market, much as they already did the mêlée in the midsize sedan category with the Accord and Camry. As consumers, we can only stand to benefit from the competition, so let’s look forward to more information.

2010 Rolls-Royce RR4

2008-03-31T01:55:00.000-07:00

The 2010 Rolls-Royce RR4 is one of the newest from the brand. Concealed models of this all-new Rolls-Royce (code name was RR4) have been tested in the vicinity of Munich. The prototype will be an addition to the Phantom line, and it's rather small. The 2010 RR4 will be initially introduced as a sedan, but of course the two-door versions, both fixed- roof and convertible will certainly go after. Rolls-Royce's Goodwood plant which is found in southern England will assemble the cars, and it's getting double the capacity to cope. That goes to show an output of 1000 RR4s annually, only one-eighth of Bentley's production of its Continentals. Rolls-Royce CEO verifies that their car will be considerably more expensive than the Bentley with a pricing of approximately $340,000 in the U.S. And since it is manufactured in Britain, it can use all the skills there in hand-worked leather, wood, and paint. The brand will present high scope for personalization in trims and issues including the entertainment electronics. When it comes to the interior, the car will utilize some BMW concepts and some of its own.

In contrast to the Phantom, it doesn't have an all-aluminum space-frame body, but has a modification of the next-generation BMW 7 Series steel-and-aluminum underbody, a lithe structural design that also will provide for the larger and lower 2012 BMW CS, a large sedan coupe seen as a concept at the 2007 Shanghai show. A specific Rolls body plant at Dingolfing, Germany will assemble the RR4 steel bodies as well as the Phantom shells, the CEO added.

The 2010 Rolls-Royce RR4 will be bigger, taller and statelier than the 7 Series. You will notice the upright nose of the model, more swept back than the Phantom sedan. Plus, it also contains the familiar thick Rolls C-pillar. The wheels are extra huge as well. Expect the RR4 to make use of a V-8 with direct gas-injection and twin-turbo technology like in the BMW X6. Though the CEO declines to confirm, he said that the RR4 will be competent. He said that the Phantom is already the lowest-consumption car in its class and that they want to repeat it. Also, he points out that their company should be open-minded about power trains in the continuing years.

BMW M-models to drop cylinder count

2008-03-29T00:58:00.000-07:00

One of the biggest challenges in auto performance is vehicle weight. It could actually top the list. That’s what concerns automakers so they put more power under the hood to compensate for the extra pounds. BMW is one of them. The emphasis goes to the M cars. The first M3 came packing a 2.3-liter four-pot and was able to put out an amazing 197 horsepower at that time. Along came the E36 after a few years and the cylinder count augmented by two. It stayed that way with the E46 generation until now. The latest E92 M3 is stimulated by a 4.0-liter V8 releasing more than double of the original, but also weighing much more. BMW’s next move is to lose a few cylinders, while all together dropping the pounds according to CEO. The twin-turbocharged inline-six in the 135i, 335i and 535i as a fine indication of future outcomes, such as in the case of the M variants that will make more use of forced induction rather than advanced displacement and higher cylinder counts.

Get on the road with the 2009 Acura TSX

2008-03-29T00:49:00.000-07:00

It will be at the 2008 New York International Auto Show where the copiously redesigned 2009 Acura TSX will make its official debut.

The first generation Acura TSX established great reviews both from the owners and the media. Although it did not have the most exciting styling or the toughest of powertrains, the TSX brought a prudent and unswerving vehicle with an abundance of standard options. And well, with the introduction of an all-new 2009 Acura TSX, we can only expect more, right?

The 2009 TSX will use a base engine like to that of the 2008 TSX. The engine will be a 2.4 – liter in-line 4 cylinder engine that reaches 201 hp. It is said that the rated power of the new TSX engine is 4 hp lower than that of the 2008 prototype. Yet according to Acura, the new engine will dole out power across a much wider rpm range, along with the augmented torque, must bring an increased feeling of power for the driver. The transmission choices will stick to 5-speed automatic and 6-speed manual, although the automatic version will now come with steering-wheel paddle shifters for elective manual shifting.

The 2009 Acura TSX is expected to acquire Honda's 2.2-liter i-DTEC clean turbodiesel engine to add to the 2.4 –liter engine. The i-DTEC engine will also feature an advanced Nox emissions reduction system that will not require urea additives to meet up emissions standards in United States. As of the moment, no official numbers on the TSX's new diesel engine have been released. The TSX's i-DTEC engine may have higher output compared to Euro Accord at 148 hp and 258 lb•ft (350 N•m) torque.
The 2009 TSX will be bigger than its predecessor. This all-new TSX will measure 3.0-inch width greater, a 2.6-inch track wider and a 1.3-inch wheelbase longer than the existing TSX. In terms of length, there will be an additional 2.4 inches at the most.

You think it’s all what this new ride from Acura could offer? You’re wrong. Well the 2009 TSX will likewise feature luxury features standard for Acura cars but it will add a USB port music border. The TSX will include an optional technology package, meaning a navigation system real-time weather and traffic, and a 10-speaker premium sound system with DVD-audio facilities. And best of all, the new Acura TSX is set to blast with Honda's Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure. This is a feature that is intended to lessen accident impact on passengers. Sure enough, these are some of the things a lot of enthusiasts are going to look for.

2009 Maserati Gran Turismo S

2008-03-28T01:03:00.000-07:00

It has been a year since the debut of the Maserati Gran Turismo coupe. And this is year is the best time to do some slight rev up in this cart. The question is, how re you going to see the little changes? Well, the latest GT S version can be known with its ominous alloy wheels and by its superfluous howl, coming from the exhaust pipes of the bigger 4.7-liter V-8, up from the original 4.2 liters. Now, it packs a 440-bhp punch. Coming with these alterations is an electro-actuated transaxle-mounted gearbox with sequential paddle shifters and an automatic clutch. The so-called MC-Shift system was modified from Maserati’s striking MC-12 mid-engine racer. There’s more. The 2009 GT S has got new brakes, improved in cooperation with Brembo. Then, the modified braking package feature front rotors with a dualcast technology, casting the units out of iron and aluminum. The discs are paired with aluminum mono-block calipers with six pistons. The GT rides on a 115.9-in. wheelbase and is 192.3 in. in overall length. In addition to trivial detail changes on the body, the interior has been revived with Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara inserts evident in the horizontal piping on the seats and seatbacks. The GranTurismo’s gorgeous shape was fashioned by Pininfarina, an Italian design firm.

Daihatsu dash to slot in 3D concept

2008-03-28T01:02:00.000-07:00

Back then, or maybe until now, we were contented with the Light-Emitting Diode or LED and the Liquid Crystal Display or the LCD for our car’s dashboards. Well, the next hot pick for your dashboard, according to Daihatsu, is the 3D holographic technology. How can that be? Daihatsu teamed up with Provision Interactive Technologies to employ a 3D dashboard for its newest concept car which was unveiled during the 40th Tokyo Motor Show. It was a great move for the brand as attendees of the said show were so awed with the high technology. With that, Provision Interactive Technologies filed a new patent for the product which will be known as HLXX.

Let’s have a look at this new HLXX technology. Primarily, it makes use of a traditional 2D flat screen dashboard with the addition of a second 3D holographic screen. During a normal operation, the driver views instrument gauges through the 2D monitor. But when warnings or alerts happen, the 3D scheme instantaneously presents the information to the operator as a three-dimensional image. According to Provision, it facilitates instant driver awareness and recognition of the situation. In line with this up-to-the-minute technology, Daihatsu likewise plans to slot in the HLXX technology into their vehicles by year 2012. Well, let’s see…

A slow down for Nissan

2008-03-28T01:01:00.001-07:00

With the introduction of more and more powerful and tough cars now, you may find it quite effortless to overlook about Nissan’s car offerings. With the launch of the redesigned Maxima in New York as well as the incoming onset of the GT-R for the first time in the U.S., you can set aside the others, right? But the fact is, some of Nissan's more compact vehicles are considered as the essentials of the brand, filling the transportation requirements of the masses. The problem is, these Nissan cars are far from exciting which is all shown in its recent sales in the U.S. This is the reason why Nissan is planning to idle its Mexico plant for a seven days in order that it can realign production with demand and thus consider this slow down of the company. For sure, this slowdown of car sales in America is expected to cause a bit of a fall for Mexico's promising automotive industry. Why? Because a lot of the export models built there are intended for sale in the United States. Things should be back to normal after the seven days closure. And hopefully, the sales of Nissan's small cars will soon rise again.

Fast and the Furious 4 to include Hyundai Genesis Coupe

2008-03-26T16:54:00.000-07:00

Here’s one for the Fast and the Furious movie fans out there. According to Inside Line, moviegoers and racing enthusiasts should expect to see more tire-burning and speedy actions for the upcoming sequel of the movie schedules for release in 2009. Hyundai's new Genesis Coupe will be included, yes it is. It was further said that the Korean car company allegedly sent Universal a bright red Genesis Coupe SE that is powered by the turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This news could lend some belief to anyone’s opinion that the turbo mill might become the tuner's choice, although the large six cylinders are likely to be ample for most of the drivers who don't want to modify their ride. For those who are not into the movies and don’t feel like waiting for the fourth Fast and the Furious franchise, perhaps you’ll find it really cool to see the Hyundai Genesis Coupe side by side with performance toughies such as the new Nissan GT-R.

Is your car safe to drive?

2008-03-26T16:52:00.000-07:00

Safety is an aspect that’s highly considered when we drive our cars around. Who would want to risk his life on the road anyway? For obvious reasons, we all want to be sure that we are secured whether we are driving on paved streets or heading to an off-road adventure out there. So with that, crash safety ratings are a big selling point among buyers. You surely would not favor a car with just two stars, right? In quest of salable collision performance, auto manufacturers equipped their vehicles with tougher metals and much better construction and buyers can now get the benefit by choosing from highly rated vehicles. But the problem is whether that safety design is ever called upon to perform. Numerous vehicles now showcase high strength steel in vital portions such as the roof pillars. Even it can help protect the occupants, it can still get in the way. You will notice that the tools that once made quick work of crashed vehicles are now having trouble shearing through contemporary cars. And that’s not where the problem ends. Recent cars feature lots of airbags around the cabin. Moreover, there are worries about those cutting high-voltage electrical cabling in electric or hybrid vehicles. Remember that in cases of accidents, rescuers need to know where all the potentially hazardous equipment lies within a vehicle in order that they can safely retrieve persons without making further mishaps.

Way back, it is just a simple matter of cutting a roof in order for rescuers to move passengers out. But now it can be a severe issue that will consume double or triple the time. Take note - taking more time at an accident scene has consequences that might put recovery or even survival at risk due to delay. Automakers have always been aware of these situations, and the good thing about it is that they are working with public safety units to offer more information and proper training. Also, the schematics and construction details of vehicles are being made available to first responders by some non-profit groups now. The capability to do research like where and how a car should be taken apart in an emergency can help a lot even in matter of minutes. Ford, one of the famous automakers, is asking for a dialogue with rescue crews and the makers of their tools by offering a look at the build of the 2009 Ford 150. Aside from that, upgrades to rescue tools are needed. What really is nice to know now is the fact that death rate from passenger car accidents is becoming low. But still, it is best to drive safely.

BMW 520d beat Prius in gas mileage?

2008-03-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

London's Sunday Times was bugged by reports that the official mileage numbers for the Prius were overstated by about 15 imperial mpg. With that, the Times come to a decision to run a BMW 520d against a Prius with regenerative braking from London to Geneva, in a 460-mile trip. Also added were 100 miles of urban running to give the Toyota Hybrid model a chance to recover ground on its proper turf. The result that was given was – the conventional diesel with Efficient Dynamics beat the full hybrid by 2.2 imperial mpg or 1.8 US mpg. Meaning, an executive sedan with all the mod-cons and 500 extra pounds beat the mollusk-shaped wonder, the Prius. And the diesel's CO₂ emissions are just 32 g/km higher than the hybrid, to boot. According to Times, they found the test a bit unfair because the Prius is not meant to show its muscle at 75-mph into a headwind and putting in additional hundred miles of urban driving can’t make up for 460 miles of autoroute.

Saab’s Pure BioPower Eco Clothing Line

2008-03-25T18:05:00.000-07:00

To provide better performance and reasonably good emissions wit the use of small turbocharged engines, Swedish auto manufacturer Saab got into the E85as an alternative fuel in Europe. Since ethanol contains greater octane rating rather than gasoline, boost pressure can be increased, thus allowing for a greater definite power output. What really makes it helpful is the fact that Saab has been known to being quite peculiar and using turbocharged engines in their vehicles.

Well, that’s not all that Saab offered. In addition, Saab likewise gets the most out on the ‘green’ aspect of the biofuel. To further put this to reality, the Swedish brand is to show off its 9-X BioHybrid concept as well as the 9-4X BioPower concept at the New York Auto Show.

And if you think that Saab’s innovations are shown in its vehicle’s, think not. That is because its newest venture is into being eco-friendly with its latest Pure BioPower Eco Clothing Collection. This was produced in connection with Saab’s clothing design firm Reflective Circle. The Saab/Reflective Circle collection, which includes T-shirts, button-down shirts, jersey shirts, ladies shirt dress and tennis shirts, is produced using 100 percent ecological/organic cotton certified by Skal International, an independent inspection and certification institute. Among the best parts of this collection is the use of the Coroso nut for their buttons. It came from palm trees which are found in rain forests, thus minimizing the use of plastic in clothing. Definitely, a great idea from Saab.

Bugatti Veyron 16.4 ‘Pur Sang’

2008-03-25T17:59:00.001-07:00

Another supercar that you can add to your fleet now is one from Italian brand, Bugatti. This is the Bugatti Veyron 16.4 ‘Pur Sang’ edition. Just can’t just miss the opportunity know more about this supercar. Pur Sang are French words which means thoroughbred or pure blood (in literal term). The Veyron is a special addition version from the company. It is one of the world's fastest cars ever made with a top velocity of more than 250 mph.

It was back in October 2005 when the Bugatti Veyron was first launched at the Tokyo Motor Show according to innerauto but the official launch in the United States was held some months later at the Los Angeles International Auto Show in January 2006.

The Pur Sang is a special edition from Bugatti. On September 10, 2007 the Bugatti EB 16.4 Veyron Pur Sang was launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show. There was a slight difference from the standard Veyron in terms of body finishing as it was not evident in this edition. As an alternative, it showcases the Bugatti Veyron’s pure aluminum-carbon fiber body. This prototype will include high-gloss aluminum wheels with a diamond cut finish. This you must know. The production was limited to five cars only. Well, all of these five Pur Sang models have been pre-purchased at approximately $2 million each.

Hollywood’s Going Green

2008-03-24T01:23:00.000-07:00

It's slowly becoming everybody’s interest. As of today, it’s not just the younger generation of Hollywood that's getting involved. A lot of celebrities are into the innovative non-polluting technologies that are being developed. And what exactly am I talking about? It is the Hybrid auto technology that is having a fast way into the scene, maybe not in shoots but in actual celebrity lives –in every road they run their cars on.

First, there is Toyota’s pride – the Toyota Prius. Obviously, it is the most preferred vehicle on the celebrity-filled list of “green drivers”. Well, that includes Hollywood greats Cameron Diaz and Julia Roberts. You can’t blame them for that. Who would not choose this Toyota prototype? In 2007, the Toyota Prius won the coveted Intellichoice 2007 award for Best Overall Value, Lowest Fuel Costs, Lowest Ownership Costs, Best Retained Value, and Lowest Operating Costs categories. For somebody who is really concerned regarding the way his ride affects the environment, this is the car that should be your best choice and nothing else. See? There’s much to love about this car!Then, we’ve got another ride on the list – the GMC Yukon. Yes, you’ve heard it right buddies, the Yukon. And guess who’s on the list? Paris Hilton that is. For somebody who frequently goes down L.A. streets, this actually makes sense. And good for her who bought the vehicle as a birthday present to herself. GMC Yukon is the first full-size hybrid SUV that is sure to get good attention when the hotel heiress cruises around L.A. from one hot spot to the other with the paparazzi never far behind. Perhaps, you might wonder what makes this vehicle a perfect choice. Here’s some. The Yukon was recently used in another Hollywood effort to go green since numerous of this year's Oscar attendees went up to the show in the GMC Yukon Hybrid, the Chevy Equinox Fuel Cell, as well as the FlexFuel E85 ethanol-compatible GMC Yukon.

And that didn’t stop right there. Listen up George Clooney fans, you surely want to hear this. George Clooney cruises around Los Angeles in his Tango 600. This is a two-seat electrically powered vehicle. He was the very first one to buy one of its kinds. This is an automobile which is 6 inches narrower than many motorcycles with a range of 80 miles. Sounds great, right? Indeed, it is very possible that in the near future, the cars that are driving celebrities will be going green as well. Why? There was this recent announcement from New York City's Mayor Bloomberg. What was the important announcement about? He pointed out that the Taxi and Limousine Commission will soon require black cars to heighten fuel efficiency standards to a level that is only available now through the use of hybrid technology.

Aliana Marino, the vice president of innovative and expansive marketing for Eco-Bags Products, an eco-friendly company that often works with celebrity clients. According to Marino, “green” is the new “low-fat” that is not only the newest trend but also an expression of upper-class consumer restraint. Publicized attempts at greening permit a celebrity to show their compassionate, humanist side. It's one of the best counters to the negative publicity of excess and egoism. But that’s another story. No matter what their reasons are, big-time celebrities are turning toward non-polluting vehicles more than ever. Many movie and TV stars, comedians, and top politicians all appear on the list and each one is definitely a proud owner of an eco-friendly ride and that’s what makes it really good. Sooner tat you expect, these stars are already influencing others to paint their town, whatever the place may be as long as they want to be driving “green” this time around.

The “Competizione” is yet to start

2008-03-17T19:35:00.001-07:00

Racetrack-ready engines, chic lines and use of hand-rubber paint – that is what Alfa Romeo was known for. Transition became particularly difficult in the United States when the automobile progressed from an interest of the affluent to an everyday means of transportation for many people even during those times. The introduction of the brand to the United States seemed old-fashioned, being the home of mass production. By the mid-1980s, American enthusiasts of the Alfa Romeo became the impracticable persona who wants you to admire the engine in his Alfa prototype while hoping that you'd overlook the reality that its muffler is just held in place by a coat hanger. Can you imagine that? Overpowered by yet another Italian brand Fiat in 1986, the company left these shores in 1995, leaving its fans its glorious past in the land.

But for the Alfa Romeo fans in the United States, listen to this. Alfa Romeo plans to go back to America. Yes you’ve heard it right folks. It might be in Fall 2009, with a product line that has yet to be determined since one company official blurted, "We have yet to determine what the American driver requires.” Nothing is expected in its distribution deal set as well.

Alfa is to produce a "halo car" - the 8C Competizione, a 450-hp two-seater coupe that is intended to redraft Alfa's reputation as the automotive counterpart of an aged movie star who has lost his appeal while retaining his domineering peculiarity. Well that goal might be very possible since the brand manages to sell more than 150,000 cars annually worldwide and has enthused ahead with quality control even when hardly any American were paying attention to it.

The big question is: Is the 8C good enough to rub the Alfa Romeo image in a world abundantly endowed with lip smacking supercars now?

At the Fiat Group Proving Ground in Italy, two 8Cs showed understated design. They were faintly contoured with their sculpted in a series of unfolding curves. According to a veteran test engineer, the 8C starts with a steel Maserati platform, abridged to carry a 104.1-inch wheelbase, while the body is utterly carbon fiber, toughened with steel and aluminum at the front and back for the crash testing. Careful refinement of the carbon-fiber underside in Fiat's wind tunnel had made the car aerodynamically sound, without the need to resort to wings beyond a turned-up lip at the rear. As the hood is opened, there comes a scalloped wedge to reveal its 4.7-liter V-8, looking attractive enough to recollect the days when Alfa Romeo fans made coffee tables by balancing a glass top on an Alfa engine block. In classic Alfa craze, the engine sits behind the front wheels, but while the transmission housing in old Alfa racing cars crowded the driver, the 8C utilizes a rear transaxle that wipes out any potential trunk space. The "trunk" is a curved slit containing a fitted case while providing a spacious cabin and a 49/51 percent front-to-rear weight distribution. With lots of carbon fiber in the body, the 8C has a low center of gravity and a horsepower-to-weight ratio that’s close to that of a 911 Turbo yet far superior to that of a Porsche 911 Carrera S.

Moving on to the interior, the driver's seat features a maneuver involving none of the crawl-across-cut-glass contortions. Find yourself in one of the most tasteful interiors ever to adorn a sports car. The carbon-fiber dash is provided in a subtle gray-black akin to fine wool. The center console is a striking, eleven-pound aluminum sculpture carved from a 232-pound block. Noticeable electronics are limited to a glowing red display found between the tach and speedometer. The rest is mostly leather – on the door panels and carbon-fiber seats. With the 2009 8C Competizione – you have power, bits of glossy hardware, the smell and squeak of leather, and a commanding view. A blast indeed!

Smaller, cheaper VW cars for U.S

2008-03-13T00:58:00.000-07:00

One million vehicles. That is Volkswagen’s goal for its cars by the year 2018 – to sell one million vehicles annually, that is. Yeah, you can say it’s an ambitious goal. Well, according to some reports, the German auto maker is eyeing on higher sales in the United States. A bigger part of the plan is to provide the U.S. auto market with cars that will appeal more to American customers. By that, the company means cheaper and smaller cars. It was further revealed that Volkswagen is frantic for a model to contend competitively with Honda prototypes. Accordingly, Volkswagen models are to be designed to race with the Japanese brand.

To accommodate the U.S. feel. The replacement for VW Jetta might be assembled Mexico, at the Pueblo plant that is getting capacity now. On he other hand, the model to succeed Passat is likely be built at a latest plant, most probably in some place in Georgia, North Carolina or South Carolina. Related to the plans, VW’s new U.S. plant also haste capability to build a new small car for the U.S. market. It was in the recent VW Space Up! Show that the small car concepts were likewise considered for production. But that was another story as they have only been approved for retail in Europe.

More than the small cars planned by Volkswagen to enter the U.S. auto market scene, there is the possibility that Phaeton luxury sedan will be brought back to the U.S. although the first VW Phaeton was not a success for Volkswagen in the U.S. VW exec said that the new version would likely be a V-8 and probably diesel powered. The company deems that it needs a flagship model like the Phaeton. Other than that, VW revealed that there is need for better Toureg as well as the prospect of midsize pickup trucks in the U.S. and most of all, producing a Volkswagen-made successor to the future Routan model.

2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

2008-03-13T00:55:00.000-07:00

Ferrari is set to launch another model in the 2009 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. With its two-plus-two-seater, this V-12 flagship grand touring coupe has been set aside for the past two years in favor of the 599GTB sports coupe. This time around, the 612 was selected to be the intro vehicle for Ferrari's latest customization program known as the Ferrari Atelier. As a new and organized marketing effort, this program will allow Ferrari customers to have their own 612 Scagliettis custom-made to their personal tastes. For those of you who are into Ferrari, it is fact that you have always been able to get things done your way at the Ferrari factory, yet it was not part of an official program such as the Ferrari Atelier. Today, the factory will offer a particular shop where Ferrari customer can sit down with a specialist to discuss detailed needs and desires. More than that, you can also look at samples of leathers, pick matching handmade luggage or try out different seating styles.

Definitely, there are more features on the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti. The prototype has been fitted with the newest version of the F1 SuperFast automated manual paddle-shift transmission. Meaning, 612 drivers can now benefit from the same gearshifting times – at about 100 milliseconds - as those 599GTB drivers. Plus, the 612's steering wheel now features the Ferrari manettino switch. If you’re wondering what it’s for, well, it is included to control stability control and other chassis systems, on the right spoke, and a red engine start button on the left spoke. As they have been on all other Ferrari models since October 2007 production, carbon ceramic brakes comes standard now. The 612 also gets a new, standard, full-glass roof with an electrochromatic tinting. More to come from the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti perhaps in the next auto shows.

Toyota to create a brand for Hybrid Prius

2008-03-12T20:19:00.000-07:00

The Toyota Prius has a powertrain that is made up of an electric motor, a generator and a 4-cylinder high efficiency gasoline engine. No transmission goes beyond this gear organization. To start, you need to turn the ignition switch. Right there on the graphic display panel shows that the car is running. This Hybrid car takes off silently. When you reach about 15 mph, the gasoline engine is running although you didn’t hear it start. As you slow down and stop, the gasoline engine no longer runs and the car becomes extremely quiet. When you speed up, this car does not shift. Its gear set serves as substantially variable transmission that progressively transitions from low gear to high gear in a steady flow. Thus, Prius picks up speed while the engine seems to stay at its most competent rpm.

The Toyota Prius is an environmentally friendly sedan that is relatively pleasurable and easy to drive. Here’s the buzz from Toyota. The automaker has plans of improving hybrid offerings in the future. According to a Toyota exec, they are currently studying if they could initiate a Prius brand basing it on the popular hybrid sedan. Moreover, he said that using the Prius platform for coupe, sedan or wagon body styles is possible. Toyota is still silent on anything but looks like it is capitalizing on the sales success of the Prius.

An All-new 2008 Chevrolet Malibu

2008-03-12T20:11:00.000-07:00

Just as 2008 marked another year for the auto world, Chevrolet released its all-new 2008

Chevrolet Malibu. Along with its new car developments, the company’s main missions were to let loose of the company's design and engineering for them to provide not just competitive sports utility vehicles and trucks but respectable cars as well. This decade, Chevrolet is up to the goal of producing stiff cars.

The 2008 Chevrolet Malibu is a lot competitive than the past Malibu models. This prototype was based on the large-scale Epsilon stand. So much like its company twin – the Saturn Aura – it features solid and flex-free unibody, thus making it firm and controlled. Plus, the hydraulically assisted rack-and-pinion steering on V-6 models is expansive and free from splatter. When the Malibu was put to a drive test over a line of chatter bumps (these are the high-frequency ridges in an airstrip) at General Motors testing ground, the Malibu’s steering rack remained planted and yes, it retained rigidity. This is where the Malibu becomes a higher level than the Honda Camry which when tested went through severe kickback because of the steering column. But here’s a little downside in the Malibu – the electric power assist to four-cylinder Malibu prototypes is not that pleasing as the hydraulic setup. That is because it has diminutive on-center feel, is extremely light and worse, it lightens even more as soon as you apply power into it. The electric power steering may be an advantage for Volkswagen GTI but not with General Motors, particularly with Chevrolet and its Malibus. Well, that’s not all with Chevrolet. Its 112-inch long wheelbase, appropriately tuned front-strut and rear-multilink suspension help it ride better than the Camry. The Chevrolet dips in the road lithely, with little joggle while the brake pedal feels firm with progressive moving.

The Malibu seems bigger. It measures three inches longer than the car it is traded with. Merits to a wheelbase that was extended to six inches. This makes this Chevrolet model more striking, well-proportioned, substantial and a real road machine. Other than that, the Chevrolet Malibu is fully ready for action. You could never say this with past Malibus but now, it becomes a worthy consideration. Today, considering the Malibu for your investment is not a waste of your time and effort in seek out for tough car for yourself. More upcoming Chevrolet cars worth swarming about.