suv – Page 9 – Automobiles Review

The Top 5 Automotive Upgrades for a New Vehicle

Elevate the style and performance of your new ride from off-the-lot stock to aftermarket hot by spicing it up with performance accessories. Whether you’re looking to add some sizzle to your daily driver or give your free-time ride an extra jolt of juice, custom accessories take your car, truck or SUV to unheard of levels of style and protection. And, as any automotive junkie knows, the best place to start your journey is to add some flashy protection to your front end. And, for stylish defense from the elements, a car bra is the way to go. Car bras are custom-crafted to fit every line of your exact vehicle for the stylish accent your new ride deserves. These beauties defend your bumper from pummeling pebbles, torpedoing wasps and anything else the open road can dish out. And, they’re available in a wide variety of styles and materials to compliment your unique look.

With your front end taken care of it’s time to focus on keeping your interior fresh and looking fly. And, for that you need to hook up your ride with a set of seat covers. From taking abuse from unruly teenagers to blocking Fido’s fur flinging ways, seat covers offer the best defense out there. Like putting your seats in a time capsule, seat covers put your seats on lockdown to block anything from getting at ‘em. That snug seal is all you need to stop the upholstery aging process in its tracks. Plus, they come in an astounding variety of fabrics and styles so your interior style is helped while your fabric stays factory fresh.

Now that your seats are squared away, your next step is to take care of your floorboards. Floor mats offer an unbeatable layer of defense from everything your active lifestyle can dish out. So, from mud-covered cleats to spilled soda, your floors stay stylish and clean. They’re available in a wide variety of styles and protection levels to compliment your interior. That means from matching to leather to adding some Hawaiian flare to your floorboards, you’re covered.

With your car properly protected it’s time to get to the really fun part: performance. And, nothing sets your horsepower and torque soaring like a cold air intake. These beasts suck in massive quantities of power-producing icy air and feed it to your hungry engine. That brawny breath boosts the performance of your ride better than any other upgrade. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your 4×4 for an all-out off-road attack or want to add an extra jolt of juice to your weekend ride, a performance CAI is the way to go.

Meanwhile, you can’t add that much furious power without boosting your braking system to keep pace. Upgrading your brake rotors to a brawny aftermarket setup is an essential step in the journey of any performance geek. From cross-drilled rotors to dimpled or slotted and every combination in between, performance rotors come in a variety of different styles to suit any situation from the dirt track to the raceway. Either way you go, performance rotors massively increase the stopping power of your ride. All this great gear raises your ride to a personalized statement of excellence for all on the road to envy.

March 8, 2012

2013 Acura RDX Crossover SUV – Pricing

The all-new 2013 Acura RDX Crossover SUV will be launched for sale in dealerships in th beginning of the Spring with a starting price (MSRP) at $34 320. The new 2013 RDX adds enhanced comfort, utility and power, along with class-leading fuel economy. As usual, the modifications made on it as on every vehicle wearing the name Acura, are based on changing consumer preference. The 2013 RDX got a significant new looks, increased comfort and featured innovative technologies. In addition the RDX features a new 3.5L V-6 engine mated to a new 6-speed automatic transmission and a new all-wheel-drive system, which is available as an option. The RDX exterior incorporates aerodynamically efficient body and chassis updates, which lead to the increased length of the wheelbase featuring longer track, all-new Amplitude Reactive Dampers and a new motion adaptive electronic power steering system. The interior of the SUV is made with the help of high-quality interior materials and generous use of noise insulation. The standard features on RDX include leather seating surfaces, heated power front seats, a power moonroof and a 360watt audio system. In addition, as a standard come new technologies such as Pandora® internet radio interface, an SMS text messaging function, a Keyless Access System with pushbutton start, an Active Noise Control system and a rear view camera system with three unique viewing angles. As an option comes the Technology Package, which includes items such as the AcuraLink® Satellite Communication System, Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition™, a hard disk drive (HDD) with 60 gigabytes of storage capacity, AcuraLink Real-Time Traffic with Traffic Rerouting™, AcuraLink Real-Time Weather™, a GPS-linked solar-sensing, dual-zone automatic climate control system, Acura/ELS Surround® Premium Sound System, a power actuated rear tailgate, projector beam headlights with Bi-Xenon High Intensity Discharge (HID) bulbs and front fog lights.

RDX	$34 320
RDX with Technology Package	$38 020
RDX with AWD	$35 720
RDX with AWD and Technology Package	$39 420

Source: Acura

February 24, 2012

Peugeot 4008 4×4

Responding to customer interest, Peugeot have came up with this – The 4008 4×4 SUV. A world debut is set for the 2012 Geneva Motor Show and then in April, it will be launched outside of Europe as a C segment all-terrain vehicle to meed the needs of many who are looking for just that (for the last four years, C and D segment SUV demand has doubled in Russia and tripled in Europe).

The 4008 has been designed by Peugeot in collaboration with Mitsubishi and looking at that distinctive front face and specifically the headlights, one can tell. Other eye-catching features include the LED daytime running lights that sit just under the hood and the three red claw sculptured lamps. The platform of the 4008 is partly a derivative of the 4007 one but the former stands 30 cm shorter in length because of compromised overhangs. Otherwise the wheelbase is exactly the same length, preserving the 4008 accommodating and practical – 4.34 m long, 1.80 m wide with a height of 1.63 m Off-roadishness is emphasized by the body sill protectors and the flaring wheel arch protective trimmings. There’s a stylish slash on the sides that goes across both doors and reaches out for the rear wing. It would not be of much use in a marsh pit but it does look stunning as a styling feature.

Whiled chromed body parts here and there account for that extra touch of luxury, inside things get even more premium – a fine choice of materials can be seen at the soft texture fascia, the instrument panel visor and the lacquered black decoration of the centre console. There’s a panoramic roof providing adequate sunlight for the occupants and an overall roomy feel. The steering wheel is padded with leather and is festooned with multimedia controls for the sake of accessibility. That said, there is an instrument panel, back-lit day and night. The knobs are round and chunky so that they can be operated even with a glove on. A 7-inch touchscreen satellite navigation is available as an option which has 30 gigabytes of memory and can be used as an overall infotainment system rendering graphs of average speed, fuel consumption and vehicle condition.

Engine choice is relatively wide with two petrol and two diesels in stock

Petrol:

– 1.6 l 86 kW (115 hp) 152 Nm, 5-speed manual;

– 2.0 l 113 kW (150 hp) 198 Nm, 5-speed manual or CVT.

HDi Diesel:

– 1.6 l HDi PEF 84 kW (115 hp) 270/280 Nm with Overboost, 6-speed manual;

– 1.8 l HDi PEF 110 kW (150 hp) 300 Nm, 6-speed manual.

The two HDi drive trains, as well as the 1.6 petrol will be available with Stop & Start systems in the name of frugality. With the manual gearbox we also get a shift indicator so that we know when is the best time to change gear. In return, the 4008 1.6 HDi for example spews out only 119 g/km of CO2 in 4×2 mode and ten more grams in 4×4. Fuel economy figures start from 4.6 l/100 km on the Euro cycle.

Power goes trough a clever yet simple 4×4 system that has 3 modes – 2WD, 4WD and Lock. When in 2WD, the drivetrain sets in motion the front wheels, while in 4WD a computer decides where you need most toque and runs all four wheels. Lock sends power to all four wheels with the back wheels being significantly prioritized, to get out of muddy situations.

To sum up, it’s good looking, its practical, it’s functional and efficient – quite a rival for the rest of the C segment competitors. Check out the gallery. It is a real treat.

Source: Peugeot

February 20, 2012

2013 Mazda CX-5 featuring SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY offers environmentally friendly fun

Mazda CX-5 SUV Thumb 2013 Mazda CX-5

The brand-new generation and one of the most efficient Mazda ever is the all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5, which will hit the growing European compact crossover SUV market in the spring this year. What is ore important here is that the new CX-5 model will feature the ground braking SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. The latter is Mazda’s innovative new line-up of engines, transmissions, chassis and bodies. It is especially developed for cars which are affordable, fun yet economical to drive, and environmentally friendly. The figures are more than impressive: at 4.6 l/100 km and 119 g/km, the CX-5 with SKYACTIV-D diesel engine has combined cycle fuel economy and CO2 emissions. This makes it one of the best in its segment not only in Europe, but also all around the world.

The key design behind the innovative SKYACTIV technology is the internal combustion. And namely this technology is going to be the predominant engine technology for the next decade, with industry coverage of at least 80%. Mazda made a great step into improving the basics of internal combustion power, coming up with a range of unique innovations. The idea is to progressively supplement this enhanced basis – SKYACTIV petrol and diesel engines – with advanced technology. From the i-stop idle-stop system and regenerative braking to hybrid systems and more, their efficiency will continually enhance. This strategy stands under the name “Sustainable Zoom-Zoom”, and it goes beyond optimizing internal combustion. What is more here is that the Sustainable Zoom-Zoom is also about lightweight designs. Here Mazda’s goal is to make each new model generation 100 kg lighter than its predecessor. The ultimate goal for 2015 is to improve the average fuel efficiency of its global model line-up by 30% relative to 2008 levels.

New Mazda CX-5 diesel CO2 emissions and fuel consumption:

Model	FWD 150 PS 6MT	FWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 150 PS 6MT	AWD 150 PS 6AT	AWD 175 PS 6MT	AWD 175 PS 6AT
Average fuel consumption (l/100 km)	4.6	5.3	5.2	5.5	5.2	5.5
CO2 (g/km)	119	139	136	144	136	144

Source: Mazda

February 20, 2012

Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV launched in Japan

Mazda Motor Corporation has just announced the launch of the all-new Mazda CX-5 Crossover SUV in all dealerships in Japan. The CX-5 is going to become a core model in the Mazda lineup. In addition, the all-new CX-5 is the first model to adopt Mazda’s breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It will also include gasoline and diesel engines, transmissions, body and chassis, offering a predictable and refined driving experience combined with great fuel economy. A lot of attention is put on design, dynamic performance, functionality, environmental and safety performance, thus way providing predictable and responsive driving experience.

To go further into details, the all-new CX-5 has a line-up of two new-generation engines. The first one is the model equipped with Mazda’s SKYACTIV-D 2.2 clean diesel engine. It meets Japan’s Post New Long-Term Emissions Regulations without an expensive NOx after-treatment device, while at the same time delivering fuel economy of 18.6km/l, and maximum torque of 420Nm (400 lb-ft). The second model, the SKYACTIV-G 2.0L one is equipped with the highly-efficient direct injection gasoline engine, and includes Mazda’s 4-2-1 exhaust system. It delivers great fuel economy of 16.0 km/l.

In addition, Mazda CX-5 features the new design theme, which goes under the slogan KODO – SOUL of MOTION. The exterior design features bold styling that simultaneously expresses SUV-like solidity and functionality with finely-honed vitality and dynamism typical of Mazda. Furthermore, it expresses strength and depth adopting Mazda’s signature wing, seen in the new-generation Mazda design. The side view features the prominent front fenders and the sculptured body sides accentuate a sense of power. While the exterior is sporty and bold, the interior is an inviting space that makes one want to drive it the moment one sees it. For the interior, Mazda’s goal was to make an enjoyable space that is comfortable for everyone in the vehicle in any situation. There are featured 40:20:40 split fold-down seat backs and karakuri folding configuration means that even when carrying long objects, two adults can sit comfortably in the rear seats. This functionality is offered as a standard feature for the XD L Package, the XD and the 20S grades. Other standard features include: door pockets with bottle holder to carry a one-liter bottle, and a function to display in the rearview mirror images from the side monitor, and reverse guiding monitor to aid parking. Next, the new Mazda CX-5 utilizes Mazda’s SKYACTIV-BODY light weight, highly rigid body and all model grades come with curtain and front side airbags, Dynamic Stability Control system and Traction Control System as standard safety equipment Smart City Brake Support (SCBS).

Source: Mazda

February 16, 2012

Arden Range Rover Evoque

“Auto Motor und Sport” is one of the well known automotive magazines in Germany and recently its readers voted the Range Rover Evoque as the most popular import SUV in the country. That is good news for Arden, a tuning house based in Germany that has more than 40 years of experience with British carmakes. Naturally, now they have introduced some enhancements for the Evoque which will give that extra character a good SUV deserves.

In a frontal view, the Arden Evoque makes an impression with its new, handmade, stainless steel mesh grill that has the company’s typical patterns. A party piece further back is the addition of illuminated side stainless steel pipes. They have been specially designed for the Evoque and subsequently they fit perfectly. You can use a remote control to turn them on for that instant glamor and functionality as well – light can come in handy when getting in or out.

Sadly the Arden Evoque won’t be too fit for off-roading for the springs are also of a special kind – the 30mm lower kind – while that might be viewed as a slight disadvantage, it does give the SUV an attractive road stance.

It’s not all shell decorations with the Arden people. The Evoque’s 2.2 Diesel engine has underwent an ECU tweak with an end result of 30 hp more power and 50 Nm additional torque. That may not sound a lot but it will certainly be felt at low and medium engine speeds.

Source: Arden

February 14, 2012

Tesla Model X reveal [VIDEO]

Here’s a longish video of Tesla co-founder and CEO Elon Musk unveiling the Model X – an electric SUV with the practicality of a minivan and the efficiency of a … well… electric SUV.

It features a unique design that makes use of gullwing doors, although Tesla would prefer the term “Falcon Wing” but the principle remains the same. Third-row access is easy. Even with child seats installed, the second-row seats slide all the way forward. Open Falcon Wings will allow you to stand upright whether getting in or out. Kids will no longer leap and tumble over the second row, and adults will find the third-row seats as accessible as the passenger seat.

In terms of performance, as expected from an EV, torque is instantly available and the center of gravity is very low. Drivetrain composition comes in three different types – Model X with RWD, Model X with AWD (a second motor is added to the front axle). Last but certainly not least is the AWD setup with a performance package. With it the X is good for a time of under 5 seconds in the 0 to 60mph sprint. Strikingly fast. Presumably one would be able to do many sprints from 0 to 60 thanks to the voluminous battery pack which comes with capacity of either 60 kWh or 85 kWh.

Sales are expected to kick off in 2014, production 2013 while reservations are open now. Because the X is actually based on the S it will be around the same price as well.

httpv://vimeo.com/36534892

Source: Tesla Motors

February 12, 2012

2012 Citroen C4 AIRCROSS SUV

Citroën is expanding its range with a new vehicle named 2012 Citroën C4 AIRCROSS, which is a fresh take on conventional compact SUV design. The new Citroën C4 AIRCROSS will make its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March this year. The new vehicle speaks loudly about its new styling – the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS combines the elegance of brand saloons with the more muscular lines of an off-roader. When one looks it from the front, one sees the wide chrome grille displaying the chevron badge, giving the vehicle a strong identity. Viewed from the side one sees a chrome compass, identifying this car as a member of the Marque’s SUV family. This SUV sits on wide 18-inch alloy wheels and has rear lights, inspired by the Citroën C4 hatchback and Hypnos concept car. This was made in order to optimize air flow and cut CO2 emissions. Of course, the designers of Citroen have put a lot of attention on the details, thus making it delivering even more style and efficiency. At the front, for example, the daytime running LED lights are integrated vertically into the aerodynamic vents. In addition, the door mirrors have built-in indicator repeater lights, while the rear light clusters feature light guides. Another interesting instance is that a rearview camera is concealed in the chrome trim of the tailgate.

The 2012 Citroën C4 AIRCROSS has a brand new new-generation four-wheel drive transmission, which will make the drive even more enjoyable. This is an innovational technology, which takes in account the driver input, road conditions and vehicle speed, and thus distributing torque optimally between the front and rear wheels at all times. This system also minimizes fuel consumption by using low-viscosity oil in the transfer box. Depending on the driving conditions, customers can select one of three possible transmission modes using a control behind the gear lever: a 4-wheel drive (4WD) mode, which automatically distributes torque between the front and rear axles; a “Lock” mode, which maximizes traction in extreme conditions, increasing the torque transmitted to the rear wheels by 50% compared with 4WD mode; and a 2-wheel drive (2WD) mode, which minimizes fuel consumption by reducing the number of moving parts (only the front axle is engaged).

The new Citroën C4 AIRCROSS ranks among the best in its segment for low CO2 emissions. We are speaking here about the model with HDi 115 engine, which is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. In a 2-wheel drive version it emits just 119 g of CO2/km and in 4 wheel drive version emitting just 129 g of CO2/km. This 1.6 litre engine delivers 115 hp (85 kW) for maximum torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) from 1,750 rpm, and up to 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) with the temporary overboost function. There is also a 1.8 litre engine included in the lineup, which is the only diesel on the market to feature variable valve timing, which gives it a lower compression ratio (14:1) than any other diesel engine. The 1.6 litre engine features a double overhead camshaft, 16 valves and variable valve timing. It combines high standards of performance with low emissions, developing 115 hp (85 kW) for CO2 emissions of just 135 g/km.

There is also a 150 hp (110 kW) 2.0i petrol engine included in the lineup. It has a five-speed manual gearbox or continuously variable transmission (CVT). It also includes 16 valves, an aluminium cylinder block and variable valve timing. All these engines feature technologies designed to cut CO2 emissions: Stop&Start technology; an electronically controlled alternator that recovers energy during braking and deceleration; electric power steering that consumes energy only when the steering wheel is turning.

The new Citroen model offers compact dimensions. It is 4.34 m long, 1.80 m wide, 1.63 m tall. Moreover the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is surprisingly spacious, with a cabin worthy of the next class up. With five seats and a boot volume of 442 litres, it is very convenient for everyday use. Furthermore, to enhance the joy from driving, the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is fitted with MacPherson type front suspension and a multi-link set-up at the rear. It also offers an great safety level by combining driving aids such as ESP with skid control ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, hill-start assist.

What about the new design of the exterior? First of all the new 2012 Citroën C4 AIRCROSS features a large glazed panoramic sunroof with UV protection and a one-touch electric blind. It also has LED light guides built into the roof turn it amber. The steering wheel is leather-covered and adjustable for height and reach, with controls for the audio system, cruise control and hands-free kit. The front seats provide excellent support and multi-way adjustment. They are available in two versions: electric and heated. The driving comfort is further improved by the automatic headlights, automatic wipers and an electrochrome interior door mirror. The cabin includes a host of storage compartments and the large glovebox is lit and chilled. The front and rear central armrests feature two ergonomic beaker-holders and a compartment equipped with a 12V socket, a USB port and auxiliary audio jack.

The Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is all about technological innovation, and includes a top-level hi-fi system worthy of a saloon. It delivers total power of 710 watts and comprises of eight loudspeakers placed around the cabin, a 25-centimetre woofer with a dual voicecoil, and a20-litre cabinet installed on the left-hand side of the boot. There is also included a high-performance GPS navigation system with a 7-inch touch screen. For even more safety the navigation system is associated with a color rearview camera and rear parking sensors. The all-new Citroën C4 AIRCROSS also includes a Bluetooth hands-free telephone function.

The SUV offers as well a high level of passive safety, thank to its extremely stiff body structure. A high level of passive safety keeps the survival cell intact and sets high standards in vibration comfort for all the occupants. Moreover, the Citroën C4 AIRCROSS is equipped with a safety system on the brake pedal, which prevents protrusion of the brake pedal in the event of high-speed impact. The vehicle includes as well seven airbags as standard.

Source: Citroen

February 10, 2012

Mazda CX-5 SUV with world’s lightest bumpers

World’s lightest bumpers are going to be used in the design of the all-new Mazda CX-5 SUV. Mazda Motor Corporation in collaboration with Japan Polypropylene Corporation has developed, resin material for vehicle parts that maintains the same rigidity as parts made with conventional materials while achieving significant weight reduction.

Thank to this material, the manufactured parts are now thinner. The effect of this results in significant reduction in the resin, which is required to manufacture parts. In addition, when the material is used for both front and rear bumpers, it contributes to weight reduction of approximately 20%. Hence, the bumper has reduced thickness which allows a shorter cooling period for molding. Furthermore, by using computer-aided engineering (CAE) technology, the fluidity of the resin material has also been optimized. The result of this is that the bumper molding time, previously 60 seconds, has been halved to 30 seconds, leading to major reductions in the amount of energy consumed in the production process.

Further to be mentioned is that Mazda plans to adopt the lightest bumpers in the class using this resin material. The company is going to feature it in the all-new Mazda CX-5 SUV which is going to go on sale this spring. Other models are considered for such modification too. In details, the bumpers are positioned at the very front and rear end of a vehicle. More importantly, their weight has a major impact on fuel economy and driving performance. On the other hand, bumpers are multi-functional, requiring both rigidity to absorb impact, and molding and painting properties suitable for great exterior design.

The constituents of resin are two components found in polypropylene and rubber. They have different properties, and are successfully included in the double-layer structure in line with the required function for the surface and the inside of the base bumper material. As a result, the surface has excellent paint film adhesion and the inner section retains high rigidity and impact absorption, with actually reduced thickness. Mazda Motor Corporation will remains committed to the aim of reducing vehicle’s weight and improving dynamic performance.

Source: Mazda

February 9, 2012

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 SUV with a Ferrari Look

Custom-built versions of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 in exclusive Rosso Corsa coloured exteriors, red leather interiors and additional Ferrari looks. This all has been done in order to pay tribute to the two Ferrari ‘ambassadors’. Today those two specially prepared models were delivered to Scuderia Ferrari Formula One drivers – Fernando Alonso and Felipe Massa, which were the inspiration for the SUV’s production.

Each Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 features an aggressive exterior look with astonishing design – all inspired by classic Ferrari brand styling. As you can see the iconic, seven-slot Jeep front grille is painted matte black and features custom red inserts. The front and rear bumpers, the hood and the entire roof and rear spoiler were customized with offset black driver’s stripe with white accent. In addition, there were featured unique details including matte black painted dual-pane sunroof, carbon fiber mirror caps and a gloss black rear light bar with red accents on the Jeep logo. The extraordinary design is eventually finished by the Italian flag which was painted on the underside of the rear spoiler. Of course, the ride height has been lowered 1.5 inches. Furthermore the vehicles ride on unique forged aluminium, 20-inch wheels painted black.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 SUV with Ferrari Look

And what about the interior – it was enhanced by exclusive Ferrari Red leather inserts on the seats with sculpted bolsters. Additionally, the door trim panels, the central armrest and the instrument panel were tuned with exclusive red leather. The steering wheel was also leather-wrapped with mounted paddle shifters featuring red contrasting stitching. The astonishing instrument cluster includes yellow dials, thus making the cabin more stylish.

The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 is powered by the all-new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 engine with Fuel Saver technology that turns off four of the eight cylinders when full power is not required to ensure increased fuel economy. Due to the HEMI V-8 powertrain there are delivered 468 horsepower (344 kW) and 624 Nm (474 lb.-ft.) of torque. Hence, you can expect a great performance of 0-100 km/h which here is only 5 seconds. The top speed is 257 km/h and brakes from 100-0 km/h in 35 m. These two uniquely customized and modified 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 models are based on the new high-performance model of the Jeep flagship SUV set to arrive in Europe’s dealerships in May this year.

Source: Jeep

February 3, 2012

2013 Toyota Land Cruiser at 2012 Chicago Auto Show

The 2013 Toyota Land Cruiser full-size sport utility vehicle (SUV) will make its first North American appearance on 8^th of February at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show. The legendary vehicle has just celebrated its 60^th birthday since its original launch in Japan. Since then it has remained constant in Toyota model lineup.

The new 2013 Land Cruiser receives an array of new and updated exterior and interior. The exterior has been refreshed and includes an updated front grille and headlamps with HID low-beams. In addition there are also LED Daytime Running Lights, chrome side molding, redesigned outer side mirrors and tail lamps. Next to the exterior, the interior has also been refreshed. It is now available in two color choices: Sandstone or Black. Additional refinements include perforated leather trim with ventilated front seats, a higher gloss wood grain finish, brighter silver instrument-panel ornamentation, chrome-plated air registers, and updated meter-cluster lighting. Moreover there are also brand new features included: Multi-terrain Monitor with front, side or rear selectable views; a new Multi-information Display; an Eco Driving Indicator light and zone display; a heated steering wheel; Dynamic Radar Cruise Control; an additional 12V-DC power outlet at the rear of the center console; and a rear-cargo-deck power outlet that has been changed to AC 120V from AC 115V.

The good news is that the Land Cruiser will now come with all features as standard equipment! They will also include new driving-performance components, and an array of significant safety and convenience features. Standard performance and safety features for example comprise of five-speed CRAWL control with Off-Road Turn Assist, Multi-Terrain Select, Multi-Terrain Anti-lock Brakes with Electronic Brake Distribution, Trailer Sway Control, Pre-Collision System, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, and a retuned suspension. Furthermore, as a standard now come the rear-seat DVD entertainment system, color-keyed rear spoiler, rain-sensing windshield wipers, center-console cooler box, headlamp cleaners, leather-trimmed steering wheel, multi-information display, voice and Bluetooth® hands-free controls, leather-trimmed shift lever and heated second row seats. And to all these features, Toyota has also included as a standard Toyota’s Premium Hard Disk Drive (HDD) Navigation with Entune multi-media system and JBL® audio.

More importantly, the Land Cruiser has a 5.7-liter V8 DOHC engine, which produces 381 horsepower (280kW) at 5,600 rpm and 401 lb.-ft. (543 Nm) of torque at 3,600 rpm. The Land Cruiser uses regular-grade (87 AKI) gasoline and is ULEV-II certified.

The 2013 Land Cruiser will be arriving at Toyota dealerships this month.

Source: Toyota

February 1, 2012

Hennessey Cadillac vs Nissan GT-R – Interesting Outcome [Video]

Hennessey is a Texas tuning shop famous for creating Texas-sized horsepower numbers and for modifying super cars that will steal a Bugatti Veyron’s lunch money.” – TopGear USA

Ever wondered what it feels like to thunder down the road in a 6000 lbs fortress? Well, here is a video of a Cadillac Escalade humiliating a Nissan GT-R on a street drag race. Impossible, right? Not if Hennessey have something to do about it. The seemingly standard SUV actually has an HPE1000 Twin Turbo Upgrade on its drivetrain which boosts up the power up to the nuclear 1000 bhp. The company have replaced almost all there is to replace on the engine including the cylinder heads, the camshaft, intake manifolds, catalytic converters air filters etc. They have also fiddled with fuel management system, bolted on two ball bearing turbochargers and after much Dyno tuning and road testing, this is the result: A 60 mph sprint in 3.3 seconds and if you dare to keep your foot down for 11.3 second, you’ll get to 124 miles per hour (provided that it is run on 93 octane fuel).

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NXpV8_LXrCM

Head-to-head, on paper, the Nissan is the underdog here: A “mere” V-6, 520 hp, 3.8 Liter engine. But let us not forget that the GT-R is a Nurburgring veteran and should not be ashamed of anything. In real life, it will pass trough the Escalade as soon as the first corner comes around. The point of that drag race really, is to show Hennessey flexing their muscle – A proof of how capable they are when it comes to extracting power from machinery.

Source: Hennessey

January 12, 2012

Tag: suv