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Saturday, January 23, 2010

2010 Porsche 911 Turbo


 The laws of physics are immutable. But so is Porsche's attempt to overcome them. Ever since the first brutish 911 Turbo was launched in 1974, Porsche has been disagreeable endlessly to accommodate its wildest beast.

That first generation automobile -- the 930 -- was a powerful tail-happy monster, as you'd expect when you hang a 260 hp turbocharged engine over the backwards axle, and intend the rear wheels through a locomote renowned for its lick but not its reflexes. The turbo holdup between throttle actuation and engine state felt same it could be rhythmic in transactions not moments. Sometimes it didn't feel so such same holdup as an overnight delay. Many older 911 Turbos, their tails wagging behind them, hit come to grief as a result.

As the generations hit passed -- this new help is program seven -- so Porsche has continuously wrestled with the fundamental damage inherent in a high-speed automobile having the weight organisation of a pendulum. They hit fitted bigger rear wings, the meliorate to glue that troublesome cut to the tarmac; they hit progressively reduced the turbo holdup (on the latest help there is virtually none); they hit fitted all manner of electronic minders to try to keep the automobile going where the utility intends; most successfully, they fitted four-wheel intend (from 1995), so the pawing face wheels would help pull the insubordinate rears into line.

And, after 35 eld of dogged development, they hit done a good job. Successive generations hit concentrated on boosting noesis and speed while, conversely, taming and civilizing the insubordinate steed. The 911 Turbo has embellish digit of the more routine usable supercars -- not least because of its reliability, build calibre and compact size -- as well as remaining digit of the swiftest.
 


 
For generation seven, tagged the 997 Turbo 3.8, the appearance remains virtually timeless from the earlier 997 Turbo 3.6, never mind the diode driving lights, new aero wing mirrors and revised diode tail lamps. 911 shapes, after all, rarely change. Rather, the engineers concentrated on more performance, a sweeter engine, low dioxide and render consumption, greater agility, more entertainment and less weight.

2010 Porsche Boxster Spyder


 Tossed out the window -- no, out the open cockpit, actually -- are the radio, the air con, conventional door pulls, and more. Porsche says the result is a weight savings of 176 pounds over the Boxster S, making the new Boxster Spyder, at a claimed 2800 pounds, the lightest model in the maker's production-car lineup.

 
 Perhaps stung by criticisms of \"diluting the brand\" (i.e., Porsche sport/utes and the new Panamera four-door), the iconic German pace factory has countered with a sporting piece nearly as clean and purposeful as James Dean's 1955 550 Spyder. As such, this newest, fastest Boxster also qualifies as the most toy-like model in the range, a pricey artefact for amend days and writhing anchorage -- and almost exclusively so. How daylong would the Spyder's charms last, I wonder, without refrigerated air and the onset of a broadcasting during a daylong stop-and-go change on a blistering summer day? (Not to worry: If you're opinion \"unpure,\" you can money on A/C, radio, nav, and whatever another options you like.)
 
So, no, in basic \"stripped\" form the Boxster Spyder isn't an saint daily driver; you'll want to be rich enough to own digit as your ordinal or third car. Ah, but for those days that call for a leather jacket and dynamical gloves...

In constituent to the jettisoned A/C and radio, the Spyder features aluminum doors (saving 33 pounds), lightweight sport containerful way (saving 26 pounds), an aluminum rear deck (saving 6.5 pounds), and the lightest 19-inch impureness wheels in the Porsche catalog. Also denaturized over conventional Boxsters are the side windows -- they're device and lower -- and the soft top, which for Spyder obligation is a manually erected intimacy that's little more than a hankey for blocking the sun (the lid, which stows away above the engine, isn't modify waterproof; indeed, Porsche admits it won't stand up to a automobile wash).

2009 Jaguar XF very fast


 Motor Trend Online editor Mike Floyd, composition in the Jag's logbook, challenged another effort drivers with the mass post: \"I dare any of you to write about the Jag without making a feline reference. I dare you!\" Hmmm. Is it possible not to make any \"catty\" comments when composition the wrap story after a year spent with Jaguar's XF Supercharged sedan? Let's see...

For sure, the XF SC welcomes much comparisons, being a thoroughly graceful, fluid, noble, and powerful luxury four-door. After our prototypal discernment of the car in 2008, we knew directly it was a dynamical star, but would the love endure? To encounter out-and support respond a lot of questions we (and you) have about the durability and reliability of Jaguar products-we added a Liquid Silver example (with healthy Spice/Char leather) to our long-term fleet.

 
 The XF SC is a bold effort, loaded with bits and pieces seemingly sure-fire to break-from air vents that automatically open and close to a gear-selector dial that, after you advise the Start button, levitates from the center console like some variety of priceless antiquity sailing up from its hiding place at the behest of Lara Croft. Jaguar says that during development-testing the transmission dial survived everything from intentionally spilled jugs of Coca-Cola to the squash of crawling babies-and, indeed, neither the dial nor the showy air vents gave us even a suggestion of trouble during the car's 12-month meet with us.
 
Ian Callum's design earned raves primeval on from nearly our entire staff, and that admiration didn't fade. This is a great-looking sedan, distinctive and flavorful modify when tearful in the payment pool that is West Los Angeles. Bolstering our current admiration for the XF's lines were its impulsive talents; from the effortless punch of its blown 4.2-liter V-8 to the deftness of its suspension, the Jag rates as one of the most enjoyable sedans in its class to hustle hard.

Aston Martin DBS: Bonds Have More Fun


 "Yes, we do, in fact, have one of the DBSs from the filming of \"Quantum\" in the States at the moment. Would you be interested in dynamical it?\"

The properly British-accented Aston Martin allegoric had me shaken and stirred. Time to dig out my Persol 2720-S shades (worn by Craig in \"Casino Royale\") and Omega Seamaster Professional Chronograph (performing all kinds of tricks from the wrist of Pierce Brosnan in \"Goldeneye\") and see what it might feel same to be Bond -- or at small a Bond geek -- for a day.

 
 The properly British-accented Aston Martin allegoric had me shaken and stirred. Time to dig out my Persol 2720-S shades (worn by Craig in \"Casino Royale\") and Omega Seamaster Professional Chronograph (performing all kinds of tricks from the wrist of Pierce Brosnan in \"Goldeneye\") and see what it strength feel same to be Bond -- or at small a Bond geek -- for a day.


 

 We recently place the updated-for-2009 DBS, equipped with the new available Touchtronic automatic transmission, finished its paces and found it to be the best-performing Aston histrion we've ever tested. But justice Craig never got anywhere near that one. What makes a real Bond car different from the others? Not so much, this instance around.

If you've seen the stylish 007 film, you'll know there are no machine guns, missile launchers, or defibrillators on Bond's stylish DBS. It's hardly bulletproof either; this poor Aston is riddled with machine-gun fire by the instance \"Quantum's\" hyper-thrilling opening sequence is over. Unlike our recent tester, the movie machines have six-speed manuals and are fitted with nonmandatory climb seats that aren't homologated for sale in the U.S. This car's exhaust system packs more bass and volume. The dark, warm gray paint colouration is called Quantum Silver. Then there was the set of Italian license plates in the trunk, as \"Quantum's\" motion environs was filmed around Lake Garda. I earnestly thoughtful sending the car back to Aston histrion one plate short of a pair.

2009 Aston Martin DB9 Volante


 Ford saved Aston histrion from the scrap heap. And after so many years, and so many millions invested, it's a dishonor the Blue Oval isn't able to enjoy the fruits of its labor. Because Aston histrion is on a roll.

Aston was sold in 2007 to a clannish investment assemble headed by David Richards; conceive of him as Britain's version of Roger Penske. Serious car man CEO Ulrich Bez remains at the helm. The model lineup is proliferating, including the upcoming Rapide litter and a high-tech, million dollar plus flagship called the One-77. The marque is erst again chasing an coverall win at Le Mans, five decades after it last did so. And of course, Aston histrion remains the moving merchandiser of pick for the world's favorite spy. Not intense for an appurtenances that, prior to Ford's involvement and Bez's guiding hand, had been at bankruptcy's sill likewise many nowadays to count.




It's hard to believe the DB9 is now five years old, as is the strong, light, and pliant VH chassis architecture on which it's constructed. This model was the first modern Aston Martin to be built at the company's then-new Gaydon, England factory, and carries on the design themes established a decade earlier by Ian Callum's DB7 and seminal Vanquish. The DB9 still looks fresh and bonny -- foppish proportions never go discover of style. It forms the basis for the edgier, sportier DBS range and has conventional a makeover for model year 2009.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

2010 Lexus RX 350


 Lexus' RX line has been a strong seller since it first went on sale in 1998. Its huge drawing (many eld have seen income of more than 100,000 annually) have prefabricated it the digit to beat in the luxury SUV category. The newborn generation returns for 2010 with a newborn look, refreshed interior, revised engine, newborn transmission, and newborn technology. It's still available in front- or all-wheel drive, with a 3.5-liter V-6 on its own or as conception of a organism system.
 
 On the outside, the 2010 RX 350 seems to be a contradiction: It was given crisper body lines and enough changes to exhibit that it's a new model, still it takes a certain look at digit to actualise it isn't, in fact, the senior RX sitting in front of you. And whatever could debate that the only abstract the changes achieved was that they made the SUV less attractive than it was before.
 
Along with the newborn style become newborn dimensions: The newborn model is 1.6 inches individual on a 1.0-inch-longer wheelbase, and it's 1.6 inches wider and a touch taller. Headroom is down, but other than that, driver and passengers have more expanse to stretch in the quiet cabin than they did before. The ordinal row is notably roomy, modify though the drawing show only minor improvements in head-, leg-, and hiproom. The driver-side door closes with a overconfident \"thunk,\" and slipping behind the steering rotate of the newborn RX is far from a shock to the system. If you've been in a Lexus, you'll recognize the layout and locations of most, if not all, of the controls. Our RX 350 came with a 12-speaker AM/FM/CD/XM with NavTraffic and NavWeather; aux jack; heated, airy face seats; and a one-touch open/close moonroof. One feature that's newborn for 2010 is the Remote Touch Controller, which functions much like a computer mouse for the nav system, but our tester wasn't equipped with this item.

Lexus HS250h


The LS, Lexus' competitor for the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and BMW 7 Series, ever lagged behind its Teutonic rivals because driving it was a somewhat detached, uninvolved experience. However, for 2010, that may be changing: for the first time, Lexus is offering a sport package for the LS.

The package adds an extra $6185 to the bottom line, and is only offered on short-wheelbase, rear-drive LS models. That extra money gets you exterior visual cues, including body cladding; 19-inch, 10-split-spoke impureness wheels; summer tires; and a unequalled grille. There are also major differences inside. This is the first Lexus on the market where the vegetation (in this case dark brown tree burl wood) has a matte finish, a countenance that we'd like to wager in more of the company's vehicles. There is only one interior colouration scheme in this car, and the matte vegetation goes with Black/Saddle Tan cut leather with contrast stitching. Also unequalled are the sport way in front, which are comfortable on the highway, yet provide terrific bolstering and support in turns.

 
But the Sport help is not just an appearance package. There are those telltale styling cues inside and out, but there's a lot more to it. What makes this the most elating help in the LS line is the addition of a sportier transmission, newborn brakes, and a sport-tuned suspension. The 380-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 has ever been backed by an eight-speed semiautomatic transmission, but the Sport trans gets the IS F treatment: it comes with the IS F's paddle shifters and manual mode. Since both of these cars use the AA80E transmission (in the rear-drive LS), it would seem that this was a relatively logical step for the Sport. It brings the hurried shifts that we love in the IS F, and the eight-speed won't automatically shift if the automobile hits redline. In addition, it provides rev-matching throttle blips when downshifting. The newborn trans provides the hurried acceleration of the direct-injection V-8, plus the ability to manually curb shifts with either paddles or the shifter-and really curb them. Up front, there are 14.8-inch Brembo brushwood (these are larger diameter rotors than on the IS F) with high-friction brushwood pads. And the difference is noticeable. Response is excellent, as braking is hurried without being jarring.


 

2009 BMW 335d


Editor at large Arthur St. Antoine was at the 335d's wheel when an oblivious utility of a Volkswagen Jetta, going most 30 mph, rear-ended the Bimmer at a stoplight. \"The 335d took the impact unco well,\" notes St. Antoine.

\"It was ease driveable, and the rear render was intact. The kid's Jetta, the device of the two vehicles, didn't fare so well. The entire front end had stepped backward a some inches, the hood was folded, and the radiator was likely damaged.\" As St. Antoine has stated, the 335d, which would later be restored for around $3500, was ease driveable, so our staff continued to rack up the miles. \"After Art's misfortune a some weeks ago,\" logs associate Web producer Rory Jurnecka, \"the car ease feels unco solid, and I can't believe how little alteration was done to the car. It ease rides and drives just fine.\"
 
 

BMW 3-Series


 You know this car. The underway 3 Series has been around for close to five years, but it remains the direct of every automaker looking to make a name for itself in the mid-size luxury segment -- and it's the standard by which they are measured. Now, it fills the driveways of the suburbs, the streets of L.A., and the pages of magazines. This car? Played discover like a Top 40 track.

So why devote more space to it? Because all that overexposure still hasn't weakened it. The BMW 335i Coupe smartly blends luxury and sport; it's as content zooming along a winding land agency as it is motoring along the bleakest of freeways during those endless agency trips.

Part of its plasticity can be attributed to BMW's much-lauded twin-turbo straight six baritone hood. It's an engine that's not long for this world, as a more fuel-efficient, single-turbo version is in the offing from Munich. We'll woman the twin-turbo's stout powerband and overall tractability. It's deceivingly smooth -- you'll encounter yourself rise substantially above posted speed limits if you don't pay attention. It's docile at baritone rpm, but surges through the tach with immediacy at a tweet of the throttle. The EPA rates the two-door 335i at 17/26 mpg. We averaged 25.3 mpg hwy/hooligan combined.
 
 Lag is a non-issue. In fact, the 335i accelerates as though it has a large move engine, not a turbocharged one. Peak torque, 300 lb-ft, is on touch from 1400-5000 rpm. And the claimed 300 hp leads us to believe BMW is being bashful: The last 335i manual we tested reached 60 indication in 5.1 seconds.

But the acceleration isn't the point. What's most awesome is the sensation behindhand the wheel, the ease of disposing the 5-20 indication reordering of L.A. freeways, the move of wide-open throttle upshifts.


No sporty pretense here. Revs fall quickly between shifts, a welcome modify compared to the deviant amount of time many of today's engines take. The clutch, which crapper feel reddened at first, offers the correct feedback, patch the shifter slots neatly into each cog. The tense mate calls discover agency imperfections and changes in surface through the cabin, patch the delightfully thick-rimmed control wheel transmits the desires of the foam on the road. Once you fall into the rhythm, every bend presents an opportunity to drop a gear, sound redline, and center the sonorous 3.0L song.

2010 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport


 Now here's a Corvette after Martha Stewart's heart. The husbandly diva is forever transforming things found around the concern into lovelier newborn things that sit around the house. In these rather tough times, the Corvette team has condemned a page from her book, ripped it out, and headed to the garage. By scrounging up whatever of their prizewinning action hardware, they've managed to cobble up a newborn car that just might be cool enough to warrant resurrection of the storied Grand Sport moniker.
 
Underneath every the shiny/pretty it's a humble steel-frame LS3-powered 'Vette, to which are fitted a mix of Z51 action collection parts (spring rates, fireman ratio drill transmission gearing and shorter axle ratio on the automatic), and Z06 bits (front and rear fascias, hood, anti-roll bars, brake rotors and calipers, wider tires and the bodywork to counterbalance them). The dry-sump oiling system from the Z06 and ZR1 is also fitted to drill Grand Sports, which means these special motors module today be hand assembled alongside their big-brother stablemates, the LS7 and LS9 engines, in Wixom Michigan, apiece by a azygos technician who module sign his or her work. The exclusive field parts they had to tool up were the front fenders, which feature double-gill cove styling and are made of RIM impressible same the humble car's, the rear lodge panels, unequalled new wheels, and the actual springs and dampers, which are tailored to the GS's unequalled weight and characteristics (they ride almost just same the old Z51's).

 
The Grand Sport replaces the Z51 in the help lineup as the highest performing \"base\" car, but it also allows folks to enjoy the dolphin wide-body attitude and presence of a Z06 in a inferior extremity package that permits open-air motoring in either the removable-roof hatchback or convertible bodystyles. Paying for every those Z06 bits boosts the price by $4510 over the old Z51, but at $55,720 to start, it's about 20 grand cheaper than the aluminum-frame 7.0-liter Z06. Customers hit apparently been clamoring for such a package so aloud that the team expects up to half of every Corvette income to be Grand Sports.

Tuesday, January 19, 2010

Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept


Cadillac exterior design director John Manoogian II can't contain himself. He talks about the production CTS coupe and how it will hardly vary from the \"CTS coupe concept,\" the unmitigated hit of the North dweller International Auto Show (Detroit), without adding the requisite, \"If we were to build it.\" And so what's a poor Cadillac P.R. guy to do, but to say it hasn't been prefabricated official?

If you read Motor Trend, you undergo Cadillac has been kicking around the intent of a new coupe since before the doddering Eldorado was sent to that great Cadillac Ranch in the sky. And you undergo that this stylish \"coupe d'etat,\" designed much more recently than those early ideas, is set for a 2010 model year launching probably some 18 months from now, alongside a Euro-centric CTS wagon-er, estate/shooting break. (One insider says, if you like the coupe, \"Wait'll you wager the wagon.\" Wait until when? That CTS wagon won't make its entry at Geneva and, in fact, hasn't been scheduled for any auto show so far this season.)

Manoogian credits designer Bob Munson for drawing the sketches that led to the coupe construct most two eld ago, as work was patch up on the 2008 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the Cadillac CTS sedan.

\"Bob had done a sketch of a two-door,\" Manoogian says. \"And everyone's reaction immediately was, 'There isn't a market for two-doors, why would we want to do that?' We said, 'Well, let's just kind of provide it a shot.' So we did a scale model, supported on Bob's sketch.\" With organisation honcho Ed Welburn's prompting, that led to a full-size clay. \"So we did a full-size clay, took it discover on the area one day for Mr. Lutz, and he came discover and said, 'Wow! That's pretty cool!' Then we made arrangements to exhibit Mr. Wagoner as well, and everyone agreed: we can't give not to do this car.\"


Here's the real kicker, the sign that GM indeed has hit a new design renaissance: Manoogian and Cadillac design director Clay Dean swear the CTS coupe concept is virtually same from Munson's example drawings. Original drawing-to-production is the type of thing GM design hasn't been able to do since the days of Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell.

\"When we started with the scale model, to what you see right in front of you,\" Manoogian says, \"is identical. Our mission was, take that scale model and do a full-size car.\"

2011 Lincoln MKX Shows Off New Exterior, Interior and Technology



Industry-exclusive technologies, refreshed outdoor styling, an all-new interior and powertrain enhancements are just some of the reasons to take a  fireman look at the 2011 attorney MKX midsize luxury elector at the 2010 North American International Auto Show.

Leading the wide-ranging innovations is the all-new MyLincoln Touch driver connect technology, which delivers a smarter, safer, simpler artefact to connect drivers with in-car technologies and their digital lives. MyLincoln comes accepted on the 2011 attorney MKX, providing drivers a whole newborn experience behind the wheel. You crapper learn more about MyLincoln by clicking here.

Watch a video walk-around of the 2011 attorney MKX with chief engineer, Elaine Bannon.

“With its combination of style, performance and uncompromising luxury, the attorney MKX has brought newborn customers into the attorney showroom in a artefact that rattling some products hit before,” said Derrick Kuzak, assemble vice president, Global Product Development. “Lincoln customers tell us they care most about style and technology, and the newborn attorney MKX meets these needs perfectly. The newborn MyLincoln Touch technology will modify the artefact customers interact with their vehicles while its newborn design language gives the vehicle a characteristic and stylish silhouette we know customers will love.”

2011 attorney MKX brimming with accepted and class-exclusive technologies. Standard MyLincoln Touch and far start lead the list of features or technologies that are newborn for the 2011 attorney MKX, including:

    * Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning with Brake Support allows the driver to set the vehicle’s pace and maintain it without using the accelerator pedal, and warns the driver of a possibleness collision risk. It also helps reduce pace and automatically pre-charges brakes and engages an electronic brake assist system to help drivers stop more apace when the system detects a collision is imminent.
    * Blind Spot Information System (BLIS®) with Cross Traffic Alert is a feature that helps detect vehicles in blind spots during connatural driving and traffic approaching from the sides when reversing out of parking spots.
    * MyKey™ is designed to allow parents to encourage teenagers to intend safely and more fuel efficiently, and increase safety belt usage. The accepted MyKey feature allows owners to designate keys that crapper limit the vehicle’s top pace and frequence volume.
    * Easy Fuel® Capless Fuel-Filler System is a accepted Ford-exclusive feature that uses an integrated spring-loaded flapper door to decimate the requirement for a fuel tank screw cap.

The 2011 attorney MKX has octad class-exclusive features: MyLincoln Touch, attorney SYNC, Easy Fuel, SecuriCode™ keyless entry, Blind Spot Mirrors, MyKey, Cross Traffic Alert and AdvanceTrac® with RSC (Roll Stability Control™).

2010 Acura TSX Vehicle









 For most of our editors on staff, last year's redesign of Acura's formerly taut, Euro-flavored TSX was greeted with skepticism. Though the first-generation TSX was brief on rear seat room, it had an eager, involving personality that prefabricated the car a great alternative to more mainstream entry-level luxury cars. But that attribute was mostly lost in '09 with the larger, more Americanized TSX. Though it offered more shack in the back and a softer ride, the newborn TSX was also heavier, peculiarly styled in a few areas and had a more isolating see behind the wheel. Thankfully, the 2010 Acura TSX sets things mostly right, provided you don't nous springing for the newly available V6 version.

This year, Acura gives those who love driving reason to come back to the TSX. Utilizing pretty much the same engine institute in the larger TL sedan, the TSX V6 puts 280 broad-shouldered horses under the driver's correct foot. The V6 comes paired with a five-speed automatic sending only, but at small with the V6, TSX drivers no longer have to vexation about getting embarrassed on freeway on-ramps by Grandma in her V6-powered Toyota Camry. Additional changes for the TSX V6 include a slightly firmer suspension and a recalibrated control system. We didn't same the newborn automobile power control system introduced for the '09 redesign, as its desensitize see countered the TSX's intended sportiness. Thankfully, the V6 model's control provides more feedback about what's going on at the front wheels.

Overall, the 2010 Acura TSX is a mixed bag. On the one hand, there is the four-cylinder edition with its kinda lackluster see behind the wheel; on the other, there's the V6, which is much livelier and more entertaining to drive thanks to its potent engine and revised control and suspension calibrations. Both cars, however, offer typical Acura strengths same solid build quality, a easy cabin and the latest high-tech features. Though we still would advise folks shopping the four-cylinder TSX to take a close look at the Audi A4, Lexus IS 250, Volvo S40 and even unexploded versions of the Mazda 6, Nissan Altima and Volkswagen Jetta, the V6 edition makes a stronger case for itself in the entry-level sport sedan segment.



2011 Ford Fiesta




For decades, diminutive economy cars from American carmakers have been about as desirable as a cold hamburger. Overall build quality, upkeep costs, reliability and longevity -- the most essential factors in this portion -- were points of embarrassment for Escorts, Neons and Cavaliers. But with the Euro-bred 2011 Ford Fiesta (which slots under the Focus to become Ford's new entry-level model), the U.S. looks to have something on the economy automobile menu as mouth-watering as an In-N-Out Double-Double.

Up until now, the Honda Fit was the subcompact class standout thanks to its impressively versatile interior, delightful dynamical dynamics and high overall quality. But those who truly get a kick out of dynamical will likely find the Fiesta even more fun. Its smooth, hot engine, precise and well-weighted steering and an quick chassis exhibit that one needn't be resigned to a dull drive meet because one needs a small, practical and inexpensive car.

Unlike much of its competition, the Ford Fiesta is available in both litter and hatchback embody styles. Of course, the hatchback provides greater load capacity, but some folks favour the more formal look of a sedan, which is likely why Ford is offering both. Either way, the Fiesta provides sprightly handling, a compliant ride and a quiet cabin at freeway speeds. It also offers features that are uncommon in this class, such as keyless ignition and Ford's superb Sync system, which, among other things, allows one to control frequence and cell sound functions via vocalise commands.

There are some distinctive Fiesta alternatives in this competitive segment. Among hatchbacks, the Fit and the Kia Soul stand out, and the capably named Nissan Cube makes a unique aesthetic statement. Compared to these, the Fiesta reproduce lags well behind in terms of peak load power and rear seat shack for taller passengers. The Fiesta sedan, meanwhile, has a taste less rear seat shack than the Chevy Aveo, Hyundai Accent and Nissan Versa. But it floors them all with its more engaging personality. It's definitely a automobile to look at if you're shopping for an inexpensive but desirable set of wheels.

Performance 2010 Acura ZDX



The ZDX is powered by a 3.7-liter V6 that produces 300 H.P. and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed semiautomatic with manual agitate control is the only available transmission. Fuel frugalness is a factory-estimated 16 mpg city/23 mpg highway. The ZDX's maximum towing capacity is 1,500 pounds.

In real-world driving, the ZDX's V6 provides adequate acceleration, but it's nothing special. The terminal MDX we tested accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.1 seconds, and the ZDX isn't significantly quicker. The newborn six-speed semiautomatic is smooth and quick on upshifts, but it can be sluggish when downshifts are called for.

On winding roads, the ZDX handles relatively substantially thanks to its standard \"Super Handling\" AWD grouping (SH-AWD), which is institute in many Acura products. This grouping apportions varying amounts of noesis to individualist wheels to maximize traction through turns and in inclement weather. One result is reduced understeer in spirited driving, as the grouping automatically sends more force to the outside wheels while cornering. However, there's no hiding 4,400 pounds of accumulation and a broad center of gravity, even if the ZDX does mate a bit lower than the MDX. It's still a crossover SUV, albeit an athletic one, and it drives the part.

2010 Acura ZDX


You can find a buyer for just about anything in the good ol' USA, but the 2010 Acura ZDX might be a hard sell. Acura started with the capable and practical three-row MDX crossover, removed the third-row centre and added a rakish fastback roof line that makes the second-row centre as cramped as a coupe's. ZDX buyers also get exclusive leather-wrapped dash panels and a nifty center stack panel that fades to black when it's not in use. Perhaps that module be sufficiency to win the whist of empty nesters in search of something more daring than a typical wealth crossover.

This is not a newborn formula. BMW did something similar with its X5, replacing the optional ordinal row with a fastback shape and calling it the X6. The X6 offers a choice of two turbocharged engines that you can't get in the X5, and its two remaining side seats (the middle position is omitted) still hit room for lanky adults. The ZDX, conversely, shares the MDX's 3.7-liter V6 and six-speed automatic gearbox, so it has no action edge to justify its less functional design.

Accordingly, the 2010 Acura ZDX's characteristic aesthetic module likely determine its fate. Shoppers with $45,000-$60,000 in their pockets tend to revalue individuality, and there's sure nothing on the road today that could be mistaken for Acura's newborn creation. However, they also revalue action and practicality, and there are many vehicles that outdo the ZDX on these counts. You can get an X5 for this kind of coin, or a Mercedes-Benz M-Class or a Porsche Cayenne — or, at the rough-and-tumble end of the spectrum, a Land Rover LR4. And if the fastback-SUV concept appeals, note that the quicker and sharper X6 starts at the same toll as our loaded ZDX tester.

Still, the ZDX starts at thousands less than that BMW, and it promises to foretell its driver's independent streak like few vehicles of this sort. That just might be sufficiency reason to take a 2010 Acura ZDX for a spin.

Tuesday, January 5, 2010

New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car lighter


The New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car mule seen here, as has been previously reported, appears to be shorter in wheelbase over the outgoing Z. The car’s decrease in size should help make the New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car lighter than the car it’s replacing, which should mean performance and fuel efficiency of the new Z will be improved.Those 332 horses will be sent to the 370Z’s rear wheels via either a seven-speed automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox. Of note, the six-speed 370Z will be the first vehicle to offer a synchronized downshift rev matching system with a manual transmission.

New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car


The Japanese automaker wasted no time getting the event rolling, introducing its highly-anticipated New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car, which was previewed with a three teaser photos last month.This prototype also gives a good idea of just how wide the New 2010 Nissan 370Z Car’s fenders flare out in back. When viewed from behind, the Nissan looks more like a Porsche Cayman than a $30K Nissan.

Wow amazing 2010 Mazda 3



Wow this 2010 Mazda 3, is one of a kind that people would love this sporty style but comfortable to any long distance road. This new design Mazda 3 can give you total satisfactions in your family and friends with a wide range of interior design with a capicity that brings no hazzles on every person, it’s amazing.
More pictures of amazing 2010 Mazda 3 right after the jump.

new 2010 Mazda3



The enigmatic and strange man who runs the Burlapp Car Page has a couple shots of what he claims is the next Mazda3. While we know we're expecting a new 2010 Mazda3, these shots look more concept than production, so we're assuming that's not what we're seeing here. While not as way-out-there as the 2018 Mazda3 design contest, could these be accurate renderings of what to expect from a concept of the next generation of Mazda's zoom-zoomin' C-segment hatchback? Mazda should hope their new car actually ends up looking like this, because it'd totally be a winner. One more shot below the jump.



2010 Toyota Prius is a stellar car for fuel economy



The good: Getting around 50 mpg on average, the 2010 Toyota Prius is a stellar car for fuel economy, and you can choose accelerator sensitivity. Traffic reports are integrated with the navigation system.

The bad: The Prius isn't designed for handling. There isn't full iPod or USB drive integration for the stereo. The DVD-based navigation system reacts slowly.

The bottom line: The 2010 Toyota Prius is a better car than its predecessor, although there are some areas, especially in the cabin, where we would have liked to see more improvement.

2010 Toyota Prius with freshened styling



The 2010 Toyota Prius is redesigned with freshened styling, more power, higher EPA fuel-economy figures, and a host of newly standard and optional features. This gas/electric hybrid is a five-passenger, 4-door hatchback that teams a 4-cylinder engine with a battery-powered electric motor and a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). Toyota's hybrid system allows Prius to run on one or both of its power sources to balance acceleration and fuel economy. No plug-in charging is required. Five models are available, called I, II, III, IV, and V. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. The V model has LED headlights, fog lights, and 17-inch alloy wheels vs the 15s on other models. Newly available features include an adjustable-height driver seat, heated front seats, telescopic steering column, and, later in the year, Toyota's Safety Connect assistance system. Also newly offered are some high-end features usually found only on vehicles sold by Toyota's Lexus division, including adaptive cruise control, Lane Keep Assist with lane-departure warning, and Intelligent Parking Assist that provides hands-free parallel parking. Other new options include a solar roof panel that can power a ventilating fan when the car is parked, and electric air conditioning that can be turned on for up to three minutes to cool down the interior before getting in.
COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Midsize Cars represent the heart of the U.S. car market. Most are price-sensitive, conservatively designed, family-oriented sedans and wagons. Our Best Buys include the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Mazda 6, Mercury Milan, and Toyota Prius. Our Recommended picks are the Kia Rondo, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, and Toyota Camry.

New or significantly redesigned models include the Chrysler Sebring, Ford Fusion, Honda Accord Crosstour, Mercury Milan, Nissan Altima, Subaru Legacy, Subaru Outback, Suzuki Kizashi, Toyota Camry, and Toyota Prius. Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan also gain gas/electric hybrid models for 2010.

Friday, January 1, 2010

Arash AF10



Post by: Automotive


Arash Motor Company was born out of a passion for cars, the allure of beauty and the thrill of driving the seemingly endless acceleration of a thoroughbred engine.

The engine, or better still, the soul of the AF10 is designed to withstand the punishment of motor racing and we're sure it will excite even the most accomplished of drivers.

The superlative handling of a chassis designed by leaders in their field combined with extraordinarily forceful braking performance will make you question whether the tyres will still be intact when you climb out. The AF10 seduces and excites on every level with it's distinctive silhouette and exceptional performance.

Body

100% carbon construction using aluminum honeycomb and nomex panels for sandwich strength.

Rear window and driver to engine compartment window made of non shatter and scratch resistant plastic. Front windows and side windows are constructed of laminated glass.

All body parts have been constructed using the carbon autoclave process of eliminating excess resins via pressure and heat to make parts lighter and stiffer than ever constructed.

Technical

ENGINE
– GM 7 litre LS7 V8
– 550 horsepower @ 6200 rpm
– 475 lb.-ft. of torque @ 4800 rpm
– 7000-rpm redline
– Unique engine block with 104.8-mm (4.125-inch) bores and pressed-in cylinder liners
- Forged steel crankshaft with 101.6-mm (4-inch) stroke
– Titanium connecting rods
– Cast aluminum flat-top pistons
– Racing-derived CNC-ported aluminum cylinder heads with titanium intake valves and sodium-filled exhaust valves
– Dry-sump oiling system
– 11.0:1 compression ratio
– Hydroformed exhaust headers with unique "quad flow" collector flange.
– Combustion Chamber with CNC Machining
– Cast Lightweight Aluminium Block
– Cylinder Head - Offset Intake Rocker

ENGINE
"V" Angle (Deg)............................90
Bore (mm).....................................104.8
Stroke (mm)..................................101.6
Compression Ratio........................11.0:1
Max Power Output........................550bhp @ 6000rpm
Max Torque....................................475lb-ft @ 4800rpm

TRANSMISSION
– 6-Speed Graziano GT-ME1
– Pressure fed lubrication system
– Rear subframe mounted, Seperate oil cooling circuit with independent oil cooler

RATIOS
1st...................................................3.15:1
2nd.................................................2.18:1
3rd..................................................1.57:1
4th..................................................1.19:1
5th..................................................0.94:1
6th..................................................0.76:1
Final Drive......................................4.1:1

WHEELS
Material ....................Arash Motor Company Aluminium 2-Piece
Wheels Front..48.3 x 24.1 cm / 19 x 9.5 in
Wheels Rear.50.8 x 31.8 cm / 20 x 12.5 in

TYRES
Type:..............................................Michelin Pilot
Tyres Front....................................265/35ZR19
Tyres Rear.....................................335/30ZR20

BRAKES
Front Brakes:
– Ventilated Ceramic Discs 8 Cylinder
AP Racing Calipers
Disk Diameter................................380mm

Rear Brakes:
– Ventilated Ceramic Discs 6 Piston
AP Racing Calipers
Disk Diameter................................362mm

BODY
– Featherweight full nomex-cored, carbon
fibre bodywork

STEERING
– Rack and Pinion Power Assisted

DIMENSIONS
Length (mm) ................................4663
Width (mm)...................................2050
Height (mm) .................................1145

SAFETY
– Exterior Features:
– Full Carbon Fibre and Nomex cored Body
– Electrically Adjustable Wing Mirrors
– Front and Rear Carbon Fibre Spoilers
– Arash Motor Company Stainless Steel Exhaust System
– Lightweight Aluminium Fuel Tanks

CHASSIS/ SUSPENSION/AIRFLOW
– Main Structure Patented Design 2x2 twill, triaxial weave Carbon Fibre with – Aluminium Honeycomb core
– Front and Rear Sub frames Steel
– Roll Cage Steel
– Formula 1 composite engineers were enlisted to produce the chassis out of carbon fibre with a high strength aluminium honeycomb core.
– Autoclave process...
– 2x2 twill and triaxial weave used to give a very high stiffness and strength to weight ratio.
– The end result is an accurate, incredibly light and rigid structure manufactured to the highest standards.
– Strong steel tubed front and rear subframes and a full roll cage complete the chassis structure
– Completely flat underfloor ensures smooth airflow under the car giving the AF-10 high aerodymanic performance. Computational Fluid Dynamic Tested
– Thoughout its development the AF-10 has been subjected to various virtual aerodynamic simulations using complex state-of-the-art CFD software
– The suspension is Double Wishbone AFMS Nickel coated Multimatic Special AF10 Edition Aluminium

PERFORMANCE
Top Speed......................................205MPH(tbc)
Acceleration....................................0-60 MPH
Acceleration....................................0-100 MPH
Acceleration....................................0-150 MPH
Braking Distance............................100-0 MPH

History

Arash Motor Company was established in March 2006 and has been working on the AF10 ever since.

The styling drawings were made in March 2005 by Arash Farboud Designs and have since been converted into computer models and aerodynamic cfd mesh models.

The company is located in Sawston on the outskirts of Cambridge. Most testing will be conducted at Millbrooke proving grounds 20 miles away from the company. The facility in Sawston Cambridge is equipped with a styling studio, painting booth, carbon lamination room, parts dispatch area, carbon curing autoclave oven and polished epoxy floored car assembly stations. A board room and administration offices are also located at the site.

Arash Motor Company have designed a traditionally shaped badge with an eagle emblem. The background colour is solid black and the foreground eagle is in gold. The Arash Motor Company' emblem is in flame orange.

source : Arash Press

Arash AF10


Post by: Automotive

Arash AF10


Post by: Automotive
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