Car Makes – Page 867 – Automobiles Review

2012 Audi A1 Quattro – 333 units worldwide

Audi A1 Quattro will be released in limited series of just 333 examples worldwide. The special edition premium subcompact car comes with superb equipment, brutal turbocharged petrol engine, and exclusive exterior and interior.

The A1 Quattro is powered by a directly injected, turbocharged 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 265PS (195 kW) at 6000RPM and 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque from just 2500RPM. With such power, the performance is exceptional – 0 to 100 km/h in 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 245 km/h (152 mph). Furthermore, the small sports car returns up to 33.2mpg (combined cycle). The engine is mated to a quick-shifting 6-speed manual transmission.

The electronic stability program (ESP) also includes a sport mode which sets a higher threshold for intervention, and can be switched off entirely for track use.

The chassis of the Audi A1 quattro has been adapted to suit the dynamics of the drivetrain, and the multi-plate clutch has also been positioned on the rear axle in the interest of optimum weight distribution.

The exterior is finished in Glacier White metallic with a high-gloss black roof. It also boasts 18” turbine alloy wheels, redesigned bumpers, grille, red painted ‘wings’ within the headlights, a large two-colour rear spoiler and two 100 mm polished exhaust tailpipes.

A1 Quattro also has tinted LED rear lights, tinted rear windows and a contrasting black colouring for the rear hatch and rear diffuser.

The interior features black Silk Nappa leather with contrasting red stitching. There are also multi-adjustable front S sport seats, integrated head restraints and Quattro logos on their backrests.

Among the standard equipment you’ll find Xenon plus headlights, high-beam assistant, adaptive brake lights, an LED interior lighting package, light and rain sensors, the acoustic rear parking system, automatic air conditioning, a storage package, the convenience key and cruise control.

The options list includes exceptional Infotainment kit with a CD changer, DAB digital radio, Audi Music Interface, hard disk-based MMI NAV plus, a 465 Watt 14-speaker Bose sound system with illuminated woofers in the doors and Mobile Phone Preparation High with Online Services.

The Audi A1 Quattro will be available in Europe in the second half of 2012.

Source: Audi

December 21, 2011

2011 Subaru Forester 2.0D XS NavPlus Price – £29 070

The latest version of Subaru Forester has been named “Junior Crossover of the Year“ by the famous -roading magazine – Total 4×4. In other words, this is the perfect vehicle for going to a picnic with your family. It offers a good combination of quality, practical usability, value and driving fun.

2011 Forester competes against Toyota Urban Cruiser, Suzuki SX4 and Skoda Octavia Scout. The Forester has a Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive configuration and good fuel efficient petrol and diesel power units.

The engine range includes a 2.0-litre Boxer diesel and a 2.0 liter Boxer petrol. The diesel has 150PS (110 kW) and 350Nm (258 lb-ft). It returns up to 47.9 mpg on combined cycle and the performance is not very bad – 0 to 100 km/h in 10.4 seconds and a top speed of 186 km/h (116 mph). The petrol variant also has 150PS (110 kW), but only 196Nm (145 lb-ft). It returns 30 mpg on combined cycle. From 0 to 100 km/h in 11.9 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h (119 mph).

There are three trim levels – X, XC and XS. 2011 Forester 2.0X is priced at just £21 370 and the price goes all the way up to £29 070 for the range-topping 2.0D XS NavPlus.

Source: Subaru

December 21, 2011

First Sale of Kangoo Van Z.E. in UK

Renault UK has made its first sale of the Kangoo Van Z.E at the Milton Keynes dealership “Marshall Renault”. Patrick Chard, Managing Director of Murrays the Printers, based in Alston Drive, Milton Keynes, was the lucky customer in question. He has bought the fully electric van for commercial purposes and is enthusiastic about putting it to work:

“It is fantastic, very exciting to be first. We made a conscious decision a couple of years ago to be as green as possible, from vehicles to printing presses and with everything we buy. The Kangoo Van Z.E. is the first electric van to market from a manufacturer and it ticks every box for us. It is great for our customers too, as they are also concerned about the environment. We can now deliver locally with zero emissions and make considerable savings on fuel costs over a period of time.” said Patrick Chard

The purchase itself was a small event complete with champagne and gifts to mark the first ever sale in the UK of the award-winning van. Ian Plummer, Director of Commercial Operations Renault UK also attended the handing over of the keys and was happy to note that Renault is now on its way to fulfilling its environmental commitment. Presumably this sale will be a first of many as several other companies are now interested in generating a fleet of Z.E. Vans. There are currently 20 more showrooms who hope to strike similar deals as they too have invested in showcasing the Z.E.

The Kangoo Van Z.E. prices start at 16 900 GBP (VAT not included) and a monthly battery hire from 60 GBP (6,000 miles per year, over three years). Contract hire is also available from 424 GBP per month over three years. Both include a five-year powertrain guarantee, three years roadside assistance and a three year or 100,000 mile warranty. On average, the range of the Kangoo is around 106 miles on a single charge but that can drop to 50 miles or go as high as 125 miles depending on certain conditions. It is estimated however, that a single charge costs at around 3 GPB which are added to your electrical bill (naturally at night the charging is cheaper).

Source: Renault

December 21, 2011

Newly Forged ’67 Mustang Convertible Shell to Please Classic Car Restorers

Restorers of all time classics will be happy to know that yet another, officially licensed, Ford Mustang body is now available to order. The new shell is the ’67 Mustang convertible which adds to an already available array of bodies for the ’65 convertible, the ’67 fastback and the ’69 fastback.

Dennis Mondrach, Ford Restoration Parts licensing manager is adamant that a proposed body for restoration purposes should be rigorously checked if it falls into the standards of the original. Dynacorn International have passed that check effortlessly and have even improved on the standards. “The new ’67 convertible body shell gives restorers a super-solid foundation on which to build their dream pony car.” said Mondrach. According to Jim Christina, Dynacorn principle manager, the panels of the body are made from a modern high-grade virgin steel that is thicker than the original. For further rigidity, newly developed welding methods are applied when assembling the body panels. Several tweaks on known stress areas are also done all in the name of body strength.

The number of genuine, 40 years old spare parts has dropped significantly as the value of classic Mustangs is on the rise. Today fresh, ambitious restorers are highly unlikely to come across a fully usable, original body which they can restore. The process alone is expensive and time consuming. And now thanks to companies like Dynacorn, people wont have to waste resources on this tedious scavenging hunt bur rather order a new body, rust free and fully licensed for the sum of $15,995.

Ford Mustang Convertible body shell (1967)

Background.

The first Mustangs ever to roll out from the Ford factory were a huge success with over a million sold in the first eighteen months. For the next wave, however, Ford needed to revise its love child in order tackle the incoming rivals from GM, Chrysler and various sports cars imported from Britain. Thus the Mustang ’67 was born – the body was widened, the hood lengthened, and the engine bay grew in size to give the freedom of choosing from a wide range of engines starting at the thrifty and peppy 200-cubic-inch inline six-cylinder and ending at a thundering 390-horsepower 427 that came in the Shelby GT500. That marked the beginning of the big-block engined muscle car mania. New features also included an all-new body material, a redesigned grille, new taillights. Inside, the more luxurious interior took the Mustang enhanced its appeal. Buyers could opt for a tilt-away steering wheel, a gauge package with a built-in tachometer, brushed aluminum trim on the dash, door panels and shifter console. There was also a roof console with lights between the sun visors. and the.

The Dynacorn body has taken into account all those changes made back then and is now fully applicable no matter what engine one might chose: the 390, 427 and 428-cubic-inch all can be easily bolted in. Today more than 90 percent of the parts needed to restore a ’67 convertible are made by Ford-licensed manufacturers.

Source: Ford

December 21, 2011

Cars Under 30 000$ You Can Buy Today

So you have 30 000$ laying around and you want to buy a car? Well great! Always willing to give reasonable consumer advice, we at automobilesreview.com have compiled a list of the best cars out there that go effortlessly under that limit.

Mazda RX-8 – Starting at $26,795

It’s nice to have something exclusive just to tackle the mundane day-to-day life. So why not try the Mazda RX-8? Yes, it has been around for over 7 years now and soon it will be gone but it still is capable to put a smile on your face and also to punch you in the chest. While retaining a typical sloping profile of a two-door coupé it actually has four doors if we count the clever rear-hinged “freestyle” ones at the back. That gives you a certain degree of practicality and also something to brag about The power comes from a 1.3 but it is a rotary Wankel engine so it develops the staggering 232 units of horsepower. However, despite it’s size, this engine is quite thirsty (because of working in a completely different manner from conventional engines) for both fuel and oil. So running costs might be a problem for some.

MINI Cooper S – $23,800

This is the closest thing to a BMW you can get for that kind of money. It has a 1.6 twin scroll turbocharged engine with fully variable valve timing. So in essence you get 181 hp in a car that weighs no more than a double cheeseburger. It has perfect road manners, plenty of efficiency and a classy image deriving from an old British icon. It’s not very big though, is it?

VW Golf GTI – Starting at $23,700

This was an easy pick. Ever since the magnificent Mk.1, GTIs have always been dominant on the hot hatch market. Blistering performance, superb handling and a solid image are just a few superlatives that can describe what the capable hand German engineers has done here. Ever evolving, the Golf now makes use of a powerful 2.0 l. TSI engine coupled with either a 6-speed DSG gearbox or a 6-speed manual for diehard motoring enthusiasts. It’s hard to find anything here not to like. Focus ST fans may argue that it is a bit dreary and plain but that is as far as they would go.

Mazda MX-5 – Starting at $23,190

Another Mazda here however, unlike the RX-8, the MX does not take itself very seriously. It has a refined 2.0 l, 136 hp engine and not a million horsepower rocket thruster under the hood. Nor does it get any cunningly disguised compartments. All it does is to stay true to itself – front mid engine, rear-wheel drive, two seats and a soft top. It was originally conceived to honer the memory of the emblematic small British roadster class. Yes, most probably not the technological miracle that other cars try to be, but you’ll notice heads turning while driving around in town and that will make you happy.

Fiat 500 Abarth – Starting at $23,000

We wouldn’t miss a chance to add some Italian pesto on our petrol salad. It is another iconic supermini which changed the world of consumerism when it got out in 1957. Today, more than half a century later it is still as good to the taste as Italian wine. Abarth is a subsidiary company for Fiat that produces hardcore, lunatic, rubber burning demons. With their help this 2012 imp now has a 16-valve 1.4-liter engine that brings 160 hp. The design has managed to preserve its simplistic spirit coming from the 500’s ancestors and yet it is absolutely stunning to look at. Is it better than the MINI? We will let you decide.

Dodge Challenger R/T – Starting at $29,995

“It’s a muscle car and it is awesome!” That is at least what the kid in all of us says. In reality it is impractical, thirsty, barely a technological landmark and it handles like a rowing boat. But bare with us on that one. Imagine – you on the open road, the sun blazing down on you, haze rising from the black tarmac. What do we need to complete the picture? You guessed it, it’s a Dodge Challenger. But it’s not the power, nor are the emblematic looks you want the most. All you want to hear is the sound of a 375 hp, V8 HEMI thundering down that road with you behind the wheel. That sort of practice should actually be classified as therapy for it might be the most smile-inducing thing out there. But it is even more than that: with it you are fighting for a cause to save this dying breed of vehicles which used to be so cherished in the past.

Honda Clarity FCX – Around $22 000

So Cameron Diaz drives a hybrid and so does Leonardo DiCaprio. The list goes on for miles and it makes you think: “what is it about those cars?” Well, nowadays it has become a trend to think about the environment. 30 years ago it might have been “cool” to own the above mentioned Dodge Challenger but now Prius is the new swagger. But are you willing to play along and subdue to the the newly established norms? No, you are better than that. Go full on environmentally friendly with the Honda Clarity FCX – the car that according to Jay Leno will save the supercar just like the the car saved the horse. Put simply, the FCX will be the future of motoring when petrol starts running low. It is a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle which you just top up with compressed hydrogen and then use the oxygen from the atmosphere to create a reaction with an end result – H2O (water). The energy expelled from the reaction however powers up a 136 horsepower electric motor. This mode of energy producing eliminates the need of the dreadful battery packs used in various hybrids which are unreliable and dependent on power sockets and the weather. The Honda is efficient, clean and quite normal actually. The only problem of driving around in it is that you might flood the Earth eventually (joking really). While it is amazingly cheap to buy, obtaining one is as tricky as obtaining hydrogen itself. About 200 vehicles will be leased over the next three years, primarily in Southern California. But if you do manage to get one, you wont get more exclusive than that.

December 21, 2011

Audi R8 LMS ultra to take part in 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship

The new Audi R8 LMS ultra will take part in the 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship. Two vehicles of the popular brand will independently compete in the world’s highest-calibre GT racing series.

Do you still remember that in the 2009 season Audi started its customer sport programme with the R8 LMS for the GT3 class? This class was one of four major GT categories. At the same time now GT3 is not only making its mark nationally but gaining popularity on an international level. Like the FIA European Championship for GT3 models in 2006, there will also be a FIA GT1 World Championship exclusively held for GT3 vehicles in the future. Hence, the Audi R8 LMS ultra will be able to take part in the world’s top racing class for GT vehicles in the 2012 season. Moreover it will have the opportunity to fight for a world champion’s title of its own for the very first time.

Audi R8 LMS ultra to take part in 2012 FIA GT1 World Championship

Since 2010 the team from Flénu, Belgium, has been fielding the Audi R8 LMS in various European championships. And for this short time the team has achieved some remarkable successes this season. To go into details it clinched overall victories at the Spa and the Zolder 24 Hours, and in addition won the Blancpain Endurance Series. The GT1 World Championship will be a good challenge for the team members, which I am sure they are looking forward to.

In the competition each team is going to compete with two cars of a single vehicle model from a single brand. In contrast to the most GT3 racing series where professionals and amateurs share a cockpit, this time only professional racers will be allowed to compete in the GT1 World Championship. The Belgian WRT Team is going to announce the drivers before the end of December this year. The details on the format of the competition will be approved by the FIA and will be available shortly. A provisional race calendar has already been made. And as we see the below featured schedule, we can expect ten worldwide events, each featuring two one-hour races.

Motorsports: 2011 Spa 24 hours, Vincent Vosse, Teamchef Audi Sport Team WRT

2012 FIA GT1 World Championship
Round 1: Apr 08 Nogaro (France)
Round 2: Apr 22 Zolder (Belgium)
Round 3: May 27 Navarra (Spain)
Round 4: Jul 08 Algarve (Portugal)
Round 5: Aug 26 Peking (China)
Round 6: Sep 02 Ordos (China)
Round 7: Sep 16 Moscow (Russia)
Round 8: Oct 07 Zandvoort (Netherlands)
Round 9: Nov 25 San Luis (Argentina)
Round 10: TBA

Source: Audi

December 21, 2011

2013 Hennessey Performance HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep

Hennessey Performance (HPE) is a company which makes the fast cars, SUV’s and trucks even faster. Now the it will offer a brand new HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep with a start date in the year of 2013. The vehicle is going to be based on the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8. However there will be some improvements: for example the factory-made 6.4 L Hemi will be increased with a displacement of 7.0 L (426 cubic inches), while at the same time adding a twin turbo forced induction system. The consequents results in the astonishing 805 hp (816 PS / 600 kW) and 823 lb-ft (1115 Nm) of torque. Undeniably they will be enough to propel the HPE800 from 0-60 mph (0-100 km/h) in only 3.1 seconds!

In additional further modifications are made in the transmission system and in the torque converter which are now upgraded. There are also included 15.1 inch Brembo front and rear brakes, a lowered sport suspension system, lighter alloy wheels, carbon fiber front splitter and a custom leather interior with Alcantara steering wheel.

Hennessey Performance offers the great opportunity to clients who want to upgrade the new Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 to an even higher level. This vehicle is designed for the drivers who live in an area with cold weather conditions and want to get out of their car the best performance.

HPE will limit production at just 24 examples with pricing starting at $235,000.

2013 Hennessey Performance HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep

2013 HPE800 Twin Turbo Jeep – Specifications:

Power:

• 805 bhp @ 5,800 rpm

• 823 bhp @ 4,000 rpm

Performance:

• 0-60 mph: 3.1 seconds

• 1/4 mile: 10.9 @ 130 mph

Includes:

• 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8

• HPE800 Twin Turbo Engine Upgrade

• Transmission Upgrade

• Torque Converter Upgrade

• HPE 20 inch Wheel Upgrade

• Custom Leather / Alcantara Interior Upgrade

• Brembo Brake System Upgrade (6-piston calipers front and 4-piston calipers rear, 15.1 inch cross drilled rotors front and rear)

• Lowered Suspension System

• Carbon Fiber Front Lip Spoiler

• Serial Numbered Dash Plaque & Engine Compartment Plaque

Source: Hennessey Performance

December 21, 2011

2012 PRIOR-DESIGN BMW 1er PDM1-WB Aerodynamic-Kit [E82]

The 2012 1er PDM1 Widebody Aerodynamic-Kit PRIOR-DESIGN (E82) will offer a huge range of options. The mentioned selection will include a front and rear bumper, side skirts, front fenders, a wider rear side panel and a front bonnet. The tuning company Prior Design has just released this new tuning package for the popular 1 Series Coupe models. The package is named PDM1-WB and below you can read in details the full list of the parts which are included:

Package includes:

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB side skirts (2X) (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear bumper (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front fenders (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB rear widenings (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Prior-Design PDM1-WB front bonnet (fits all bmw 1-Series E82 models except 1M)

– Mounting material

2012 PRIOR-DESIGN BMW 1er PDM1-WB Aerodynamic-Kit

Source: Prior Design

December 21, 2011

PP Exclusive Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

PP Exclusive has announced their tuning program for the Mercedes SL63 AMG – R230. There changes are only visual, but they make the roadster unique.

The exterior modifications include a set of huge alloy wheels in dimensions 11J x 20” for the front and 13J x 20” for the rear axle. The stance is improved by lowering the ride with 100mm (3.94”). In order to fit the enormous wheels, the wheel arches are extended with 22 mm at the front and 55 mm at the rear. In case the car is too low, you can always adjust the height electronically with a single push of a button.

If you think that the PP Exclusive SL63 AMG is cool outside, check it out on the inside. The seats are upholstered in finest white leather as well as the sports steering wheel.

The sound and performance is improved by a stainless steel sport exhaust system.

The roadster is powered by a naturally aspirated 6.2 liter V8 with 525PS (386 kW) at 6800RPM and 630Nm (460 lb-ft) of torque at 5250RPM.

Source: PP Exclusive

December 20, 2011

Top 10 Cars Women Love To Drive

Women have a specific taste in cars, and it is not a secret that they have different criteria for choosing a car then men do. If men count on a passionate driving packed in good style (sometimes no matter the expenses), women prefer cars which are agile, with good visibility, considerable storage space and which combine practicality and comfort. Moreover they prefer the car to be fuel-efficient, eco-friendly and at reasonable price. Of course, women also have as a core requirement the car to be safe enough, especially when kids are considered. Another important factor is the car to be exciting to drive. And if you think that the most important thing for a woman is how her car looks, well you are wrong. A surprise is that the design comes after the practicality of the car! To sum up, women tend to consider many things as well as put attention to the little details.

Given these criteria we have picked ten of the most preferred vehicles which are appealing to women.

2011 Nissan Rouge

2011 Nissan Rogue - Front Angle

The first car to be included in our top ten is Nissan Rouge because of its comfortability and appealing look. Moreover it is fun-to drive; it is practical and has enough storage space as a compact crossover. Additional features that make this vehicle very suitable one for women are that it has nice interior and comfortable seats. Furthermore it delivers smooth drive.

Price:	[rating:3/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:3/6]

2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic

Ford Focus is one of the most familiar cars on the road nowadays. And no surprise it is also well appreciated by women. The reasons for this are several. First of all it is very well priced. Secondly it is very well built and designed. Moreover with this car the woman counts on the fuel efficiency as well. Additional advantage is that Ford has offered this model as a hybrid – called Ford Focus Econetic, which makes it perfect for those who want to be eco-friendly.

2011 Ford Focus ECOnetic - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:3/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:4/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:3/6]

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

At first glance Hyundai Sonata looks extremely masculine. Nonetheless it features very feminine sides such as unique modern interior and smooth curves. Another very important feature is that the four-door sedan is extremely fuel-efficient. It is the perfect family car, not only because of its’ five-passenger seats, but also because of its practicality and safety. Furthermore it is at excellent amount of money. In addition, to make it even more efficient, in 2011 Hyundai has made out of it a hybrid model.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:6/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:6/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2011 Honda Civic

Undeniably Honda Civic is very appealing and eye-catching. But the woman behind the steering-wheel has chosen this car because it is firstly dependable, secondly – reliable, and thirdly – economical. Moreover it is exciting to drive and it is very comfortable for the passenger. And if you think that only the single ladies will pick such car, well the moms will also choose it because it offers a great level of safety!

2011 Honda Civic - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:5/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:5/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2012 Toyota Yaris

Toyota Yaris is the perfect city car and it is one of the most affordable small cars on the market. Moreover it offers dynamic styling and great level of handling and ride quality. And if the woman wants an exciting drive, she will definitely have it with this car, thank to the direct steering and progressive reactions.

2012 Toyota Yaris - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:5/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:4/6]
Comfort:	[rating:2/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:2/6]

2012 Volkswagen Beetle

This iconic vehicle shows a lot of class and style. It has 73 years history and now it is one of the most desired cars from women. Furthermore it delivers dynamic drive, which is sporty and bold. With such car the lady behind the wheel will feel unique, and who doesn’t want to feel that way?

In addition to the unique styling stand the high-class interior, the capable handling and at last – the comfortable ride it provides. Moreover it is very well-equipped and offers more space than its ancestors.

2012 Volkswagen Beetle - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:2/6]
Comfort:	[rating:3/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:4/6]

2012 Mercedes Benz B-Class

Of course we can’t go further in the Top 10, if we don’t include the Mercedes-Benz brand. Although a lot of women prefer to drive the A-Class too, we have picked for this position – the new B-Class. There are several reasons that most women will fall for this incredible vehicle. First of all it is very stylish in both exterior and interior. Secondly it provides considerable amount of space in the massive cabin and in the cargo. Moreover it is the perfect family car because it offers great levels of comfort and security. And to sum up – it is the perfect car for caring mums!

2012 Mercedes-Benz B-Class - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:3/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Dodge Journey

The next place goes for Dodge Journey, which is another family car but this time a crossover. What is unique about this car is that it can offer a place for up to 7 passengers and hence this makes it perfect for families with a lot of members. Moreover the car is really at affordable price and is fuel efficient. It can offer the best ride during distant trips for holidays!

2011 Dodge Journey - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:4/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:4/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:3/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Chrysler 300

The woman who drives this car definitely understands from style, because this vehicle is classy and powerful! It is a combination of numerous features, starting with interior and the vigorous V8 engine. In addition it offers as well a comfortable ride in a quiet interior made of high quality materials. And although it is not inexpensive as some other cars included in this chart, it is definitely one of the cars which women love to drive.

2011 Chrysler 300 - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:2/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:3/6]
Comfort:	[rating:6/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:2/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:4/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

The last included car here is the luxury Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. This vehicle is both affordable and it is a segment leader in terms of efficiency! The pros about this car include not only the high fuel economy but also the excellent infotainment features, the comfortable seats and driving position, and at last but not least – the responsive steering. One thing is surely here – the woman who drives this Lincoln MKZ Hybrid shows that she doesn’t have to sacrifice luxury to own a green vehicle.

2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid - Front Angle

Price:	[rating:1/6]
Fuel-Efficiency:	[rating:6/6]
Comfort:	[rating:6/6]
Ecological Aspect:	[rating:6/6]
Driving Behavior:	[rating:2/6]
Safety:	[rating:5/6]

December 20, 2011

Nissan Pathfinder Concept Teaser

We came across this teaser for the forthcoming Nissan Pathfinder Concept. It will be revealed on the North American International Auto Show in Detroid which will be open to the public on the 14th of January 2012.

It is said that this concept, while preserving the typical Pathfinder spirit, is to introduce a new highly modern platform coated with a striking aerodynamic body, Supposedly It will be clever, it will have seating for seven and it will be cargo friendly.

The debut precedes the appointed release of the new Nissan Pathfinder which hopefully will bare as much resemblance as possible to the concept.

Source: Nissan

December 20, 2011

Prices For The Toyota RAV4 and Prius

Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. have released their manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the 2012 RAV4 and the Prius Liftback. They will both hit the showrooms today and on the in January 2012 respectively.

Toyota RAV4

The RAV4 SUVs can be ordered in three different trim levels – RAV 4 (base), Sport and top-of-the-range Limited. Whatever the class, all vehicles can carry a 2.5 four-cylinder engine or a 3.5 V6 which develops 269 hp. Even further, either engine can be paired with a front-wheel drive or an electronic on-demand four-wheel drive. That makes a total of 12 possible combinations and thus 12 price listings. When compared to the old model, the RAV4 MY 2012 differs little in price which will preserve Toyota’s rock-solid image on the market – the base and Sport editions get an overall 0.7% increase while the Limited RAVs actually get a decrease in price by 0.5%. The cheapest of all is the 2.5 liter, front-wheel drive, 4 ratio automatic gearbox base model standing at $22,650 as the Limited V6 4WD model with a five-speed automatic transmission receives a price tag of $28,650.

All models include as standard equipment hands-free phone capability, phone book access and music streaming via Bluetooth® wireless technology. RAVs from the Limited range get an extra Display Audio with Navigation and Entune™. Optional extras come in the form of a 6.1-inch touch-screen CD player with MP3/WMA compatibility, six speakers, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, HD Radio™ with iTunes ® Tagging, auxiliary audio jack, and USB port with iPod® connectivity and control.

Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius segment has managed to stay on top of it’s competition in terms of hybrid technology mainly because of the midsized Prius Liftback. Up until know it has been shipped to over a million environmentally conscious customers. And now the 2012 MY has received a minor update – revised front fascia and tail lights, freshly styled 15 inch wheel covers and LED Daytime Running Lights with an on/off function.

There will be four available trim grades in the U.S. (the Two, Three, Four and Five) all of which have overall increased MSRP listings with around 3.3%. with the cheapest one standing at $24 000 while the Prius Five $29 805. You still get your money’s worth though because whatever you choose, it will be packed full of technology.

All models come with a 6.1-inch Display Audio system including a USB port for iPod® connectivity and control, Bluetooth® with phone book access for hands-free calling and a more advanced Multi-Information Display. Owners of the previous Prius model will be able to recognize some carryover technology as well. There’s a Touch Tracer Display, driver door Smart Key with Push Button Start and remote illuminated entry, Star Safety System and an adjustable steering wheel with controls on it for the audio and climate systems as well as controls for the phone.

The Prius Three has its Display Audio system enhanced by the EntuneTM and Navigation pack. It also gets an integrated backup camera and three-door Smart Key.

The Prius Four implements a more powerful audio system consisting of eight JBL® GreenEdge™ speakers and an amplifier. SofTex-trimmed seats, headlamps with auto on/off feature and an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar power support are also included.

As optional extras the Four and Five can be equipped with Toyota’s Premium HDD Navigation with EntuneTM and JBL®, which features an exclusive seven-inch touch-screen with split-screen capability. These two models are also the first of their kind to be offering a Head-up Display (HUD) which projects information such as speed, fuel etc. on the windscreen.

Here is the complete list of the manufacturer’s suggested retail prices in comparison to the previous 2011 model year counterparts:

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	4430	RAV4	Base 2WD 4AT	$22,475	$175	0.8%	$22,650
2012	4431	RAV4	Base V6 2WD 5AT	$24,510	$175	0.7%	$24,685
2012	4440	RAV4	Sport 2WD 4AT	$24,175	$175	0.7%	$24,350
2012	4441	RAV4	Sport V6 2WD 5AT	$26,105	$175	0.7%	$26,280
2012	4450	RAV4	Limited 2WD 4AT	$25,465	($135)	-0.5%	$25,330
2012	4451	RAV4	Limited V6 2WD 5AT	$27,385	($135)	-0.5%	$27,250
2012	4432	RAV4	Base 4WD 4AT	$23,875	$175	0.7%	$24,050
2012	4433	RAV4	Base V6 4WD 5AT	$25,910	$175	0.7%	$26,085
2012	4442	RAV4	Sport 4WD 4AT	$25,575	$175	0.7%	$25,750
2012	4443	RAV4	Sport V6 4WD 5AT	$27,505	$175	0.6%	$27,680
2012	4452	RAV4	Limited 4WD 4AT	$26,855	($135)	-0.5%	$26,720
2012	4453	RAV4	Limited V6 4WD 5AT	$28,785	($135)	-0.5%	$28,650

TOYOTA 2012 MY	MODEL CODE	SERIES	DESCRIPTION	2011 MSRP	MSRP INCREASE ($)	MSRP INCREASE (%)	2012 NEW MSRP
2012	1221	Prius One (fleet only)	Five-door Liftback	$22,120	$895	4.0%	$23,015
2012	1223	Prius Two	Five-door Liftback	$23,520	$480	2.0%	$24,000
2012	1225	Prius Three	Five-door Liftback	$24,520	$1,045	4.3%	$25,565
2012	1227	Prius Four	Five-door Liftback	$27,320	$915	3.3%	$28,235
2012	1229	Prius Five	Five-door Liftback	$28,790	$1,015	3.5%	$29,805

*Prices do not include the delivery, processing and handling (DPH) fee on neither of the cars. The fee comes as an additional expense standing at $810 for the RAV and $760 for the Prius.

Source: Toyota

December 20, 2011

Category: Car Makes