The next top-of-the-line Porsche will make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March, but it's tough to keep secrets about a new Porsche, with the brand's hungry web following. Early details about the 2010 911 GT3 have begun to trickle out.
Autoblog reports, "Back when the original 911 Turbo debuted 35 years ago, its 256 horsepower was considered staggering. The new GT3 again leaves old 911s in the dust with an un-boosted 435 hp from its 3.8-liter flat-six." The new layout is reportedly good for zero-to-sixty in about 4.1 seconds, "100 mph coming in double that time. Handling dynamics are also claimed to be improved and the driver now has more control over the stability management system." The stability and traction control can now be turned off separately - great news for the few who can afford to risk a GT3 on the track.
That won't be easy. The 2010 GT3 starts at $112,000.
Jalopnik reports that the handling has been improved with the use of "magnetorheological engine mounts," which "will allow the little track rat to seem civil."
Automobile Magazine explains exactly what a magnetorheological engine mount is. Porsche calls it "Porsche Active Drivetrain Mount. As its name suggests, the PADM system essentially acts as an active suspension for the engine itself, stiffening the engine mounts in hard driving to improve weight transfer."
Outside, the car maintains the classic 911 look, but "A new aerodynamics package adds a redesigned rear wing, along with new front and rear bumper fascias."
Saturday, January 31, 2009
2010 Porsche 911 GT3 Specs Revealed
Saturn Forgets 2009 Astra
Interested in a 2008 Astra? Make an offer. They're still on lots. Want a 2010 Astra? They'll be available in the spring. Want a 2009 model? You're out of luck.
Edmunds Inside Line explains, "Saturn's Astra hatchback, based on the Opel of the same name, is skipping the 2009 model year entirely and reportedly going straight to 2010 models in the spring."
Until then, Saturn dealers will continue selling the 2008 models they already have on their lots. They have a plentiful supply of the slow-selling hatchback.
Kicking Tires explains, "Given the already rough car-selling climate, Saturn apparently sees no reason to clutter dealership lots with another model name that has few changes from a previous model year. The 2010 Astra will be largely the same car as the 2008 anyway (with some minor tweaks, like different exterior paint options)."
It's a tactic we may see other automakers follow soon. Car sales have slowed so dramatically that many cars now remain on lots for six months or more. Aggressive incentives haven't sold off many 2008 models, and dealers may not be able to move them at all if they have to compete with their 2009 counterparts for floor space.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Top 10 Cheapest Cars to Own
To help, we compared cars based on their price, fuel efficiency, and cost to maintain searching for the 10 least expensive cars to own. Here's what we found....
Chevrolet Aveo
Small by American standards, the Aveo is Chevy's top seller in the European market, where fuel economy and compact size are a greater concern. The 2009 Aveo carries a 1.6-liter Gen 3 Ecotec engine, and with a manual transmission the Aveo earns an Environmental Protection Agency fuel-economy rating of 27/34 mpg (city/hwy).
Honda Fit
Honda's peppy Fit has been the center of much well-deserved attention. For being thrifty and compact, the Fit pulls off a surprising amount of style and performance, and it carries Honda's solid reputation for reliability and strong resale value. IntelliChoice ranks the Fit as having the lowest maintenance cost among compact cars, and it was also in Kelley Blue Book's top 10 Best Resale Value Awards for 2009.
Hyundai Accent
Introduced in 1995, the Accent may not excel in the resale value category, but with a starting price of less than $10,000 it certainly is one of the cheapest cars to purchase. The Accent isn't likely to let you down in reliability, either. This year J.D. Power and Associates called the model the most dependable subcompact, based on responses from 52,000 owners of 2005 Accents. Its 1.6-liter engine and 110 horses might not get you there fast, but at least you'll have some money to spend when you arrive.
KIA Rio
The latest model of the Rio from Korean carmaker Kia delivers improved power from its 110 horsepower 1.6-liter engine. Available with four doors or a hatchback, the Rio boasts a better warranty than most, and its tempered appetite for fuel gives the Kia an EPA rating of 27/33 mpg (city/hwy).
Nissan Versa
First appearing in 2007, the Versa packs more power than its peers with a 1.8-liter engine that offers 122 horsepower through a continually variable transmission. With starting price of less than $10,000, the Versa vaunts enough quality and features to earn the Consumers Digest Best Buy Award for the third year in a row, and ForbesAutos.com ranked the Versa in the top half of its 10 cheapest cars to own.
Pontiac Vibe
Redesigned for 2009, the Pontiac Vibe strikes a respectable balance of efficiency, cost and style. A 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engine paired with a manual 5-speed transmission gives the Vibe an mpg of 26/32 (city/hwy), and buyers can opt for a 2.4-liter engine, as well as all-wheel drive. Lastly, the Vibe is assembled in a U.S. plant that Pontiac shares with Toyota, which is a good clue when looking for quality.
Scion xB
Although it lost some of its sharper corners in its 2008 redesign, the Scion xB is still instantly recognizable. Despite its quirky, hipster edifice, the xB is a wise buy and one of the less expensive cars to own. A 2009 xB, with a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine, earns 22/28 mpg (city/hwy) with a starting price of $16,420. But offsetting its higher sticker price is its place in Kelley Blue Book's top 10 for best resale value.
Suzuki SX4
A collaborative effort between Suzuki and its Italian partner Fiat, the SX4 ranks on the low side in terms of mileage, with 22/30 mpg (city/hwy), but is an economical choice overall. The SX4 crossover took the IntelliChoice crown in 2007 for lowest ownership costs. It is also an affordable way to get all four wheels turning via an inexpensive AWD option.
Toyota Corolla
While the sight of a Corolla might not set your adrenal glands tingling, this old faithful could make any accountant smile. Fully rehashed for 2009 with a 1.4-liter engine and a 4-speed automatic transmission, the Corolla earns an EPA fuel-economy sticker of 27/35 mpg (city/hwy). The 2008 Corolla was IntelliChoice's pick for highest retained value and lowest ownership costs in the compact category, and the 2009 model earns a place in this year's Kelley Blue Book awards for best retail value. "From a financial perspective," says KBB, "there aren't many smarter choices than the Corolla."
Toyota Yaris
Edgy on the outside, economical on the inside, the Yaris is a paragon of thrift while still delivering the sass factor. Trips to the pump will be few and far between: A 2-door Yaris with a 5-speed manual gearbox and a 1.5-liter engine earns an EPA fuel-economy rating of 29/36 mpg (city/hwy). The Yaris was among Kelley Blue Book's 2009 Best Resale Value Award winners, and took the IntelliChoice awards for lowest ownership cost, lowest fuel cost and lowest operating cost in the subcompact category.
David Beckham Buys American: Jeep Wrangler
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2009 Jeep Wrangler
We once noted that, "when it comes to new open-air trucks there is really only one way to head to the beach and that's in a Jeep Wrangler." David Beckham knows what's up and just bought one himself. He gave it the "Beckham Treatment" (blacking out everything, something he does to most all of his cars) and has been seen rolling through SoCal in it over the past couple days. For someone raised in Britain he has always shown a strange affinity for American trucks (Ford F-150, Lincoln Navigator, Cadillac Escalade, and Hummer H2 to name a few).
Ah, the Jeep Wrangler. A classic off-roader in the spirit of the great Kit Carson and that bug-eating guy from "Man Against Wild." The venerable Jeep Wrangler (and of recent vintage, the 4-door Wrangler Unlimited) won't brag about horsepower (202-hp V-6) or comfort, and it won't preen itself in the mirror. But it will climb up and over just about anything you put in front of it. Plus, it's got Chrysler's lifetime powertrain warranty. This is an SUV stud.
Supermom Denise Richards in her Mercedes-Benz GL450
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Mercedes-Benz GL450
Denise Richards was spotted hopping into her Mercedes GL450 in Brentwood, California today. Perhaps Denise appreciates the GL's desert-quiet interior, perfect for sealing out the media madness surrounding a custody battle with Charlie Sheen. Or maybe she just wants to blend in with all the other wealthy moms in Southern California rocking the Mercedes-Benz GL these days like it's going out of style (and with volatile gas prices, it kind of is).
Certainly Denise Richard's kids must love the optional dual 8" flat-panel-LCD screens, perfect for watching Dora the Explorer, Hannah Montana, Starship Troopers, etc. Or maybe Denise likes the GL450's 16 cubic feet of cargo space...for transporting her 11 dogs! (Who knew Denise Richards was the canine equivalent of your block's crazy cat lady?) Regardless, the Mercedes GL is a good look on Denise, and if she's ready to get her clean diesel on and still rock a GL, Mercedes is already there with their GL320 BlueTec.
HONDA FIT on 2009
What's New For the 2009 Honda Fit? The Honda Fit is all-new for the 2009 model year. It sports a larger and more comfortable interior, new styling that is recognizable but unique from the previous car, and at a base price that's still very competitive. The 2009 Honda Fit also has more power, a more refined drivetrain, and a driving position that's better for tall people. New this year is a navigation system option that pushes the price up high enough to strain the definition of a "cheap" car.
Should I Buy The 2009 Honda Fit?
Yes.... The 2009 Honda Fit is easily the best car in its class. It's comfortable, roomy, offers up a dose of fun when you pick the Sport model, and it has one of the most clever cargo areas we've seen.
Quick Look: 2009 Honda Fit
The 2009 Honda Fit is Honda's entry into the inexpensive subcompact class. Completely redesigned and reengineered for the 2009 model year, the Honda Fit combines class-leading cargo space management with levels of comfort and refinement that were unheard of in this class just a few years ago.
Throw in the $670 destination charge, and pricing for the 2009 Honda Fit starts at $15,220 for the base model with a manual transmission; you'll pay $16,020 for an automatic. A 2009 Honda Fit Sport costs $16,730 with a manual and $17,580 with an automatic, and the 2009 Honda Fit Sport with a navigation system costs an additional $1,850. That's definitely pushing the definition of "cheap car," but the Fit is surprisingly well equipped. Base models come with side curtain airbags and side impact airbags standard, electronic throttle, an auxiliary jack for the audio system, anti-lock brakes, and a 160-watt audio system with speed-sensitive volume control. In other words, pretty loaded. Sport models add fog lamps and a sport suspension, and automatic-transmission versions get paddle shifters. Regardless of trim level, the 2009 Honda Fit comes with a 1.6-liter 117-hp four cylinder engine powering the front wheels.
We like the 2009 Honda Fit enough to award it our 2009 Editors' Choice Award for Best Non-Hybrid Gas Saver. While we concede that the initial price can be higher than its competition, it also offers more standard equipment, and it's very price competitive when feature content is taken into account. The 2009 Honda Fit's interior features an extremely clever rear seat that folds in many different ways, enhancing cargo capacity and ease of use. Plus it looks distinctive – some might even say cool – and Sport models are genuinely fun to drive.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Toyota iQ
When it comes to small cars, it’s more about brains than brawn – and the Toyota iQ is no exception. The clever Japanese model aims to pack four seats, low running costs and refined driving dynamics into a package that measures less than three metres!
A brief drive in a pre-production version was enough to confirm the iQ’s potential. But how will it fare on UK roads? To give you the definitive verdict, Auto Express got behind the wheel of one of the very first models to land on British soil.
There’s no denying the Toyota’s ability to attract attention. With its wheel-at-each-corner stance, steeply raked front end and upright tail, it clearly takes design cues from the equally tiny Smart ForTwo city car. However, a much wider track, large faired-in headlights and high-gloss alloy wheels combine to give the iQ a more grown-up look than its rival.
Climb aboard, and it’s clear that the engineers have worked hard on the packaging. There’s a surprising amount of space, with neat features such as a flat, under-floor fuel tank, compact air-conditioning unit and ultra-thin seats helping to make the most of the diminutive dimensions.
But despite its four-seater billing, the Toyota can only realistically carry three adults. An asymmetrical dash design allows the front passenger seat to be positioned further forward, which frees legroom in the rear. However, space behind the driver is virtually non-existent, and even small children will struggle to fit.
The rear seats also severely compromise luggage capacity. Lift the tailgate, and you’ll find barely enough room to stow a briefcase. Fold the 50:50-split rear bench flat, though, and you get a useful 284 litres of space. Up front, both occupants get plenty of leg and headroom. Drivers will have no problems finding a comfortable position, while the chunky three-spoke leather steering wheel is great to hold.
Cabin quality is disappointing, though. The plastics feel cheap and the build isn’t up to Toyota’s normal solid standards. Some buyers will also struggle to come to terms with the distinctive colour of the interior, which Toyota describes as ‘chocolate plum’.
Out on the road, the iQ will soon win you over. The efficient 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine is smooth, tuneful and delivers decent performance, despite the five-speed manual gearbox’s extra-long ratios. Better still, the iQ emits only 99g/km of CO2, meaning owners pay no road tax.
Around town, the Toyota’s small size is a huge advantage, as is the tight 7.8-metre turning circle. The steering is direct, body roll is kept in check and the skinny tyres serve up a surprising amount of grip. The Toyota is also a comfortable long-distance cruiser, as wind and road noise are kept to a minimum.
But there is a snag: the price. For the £10,275 Toyota is asking for this range-topping iQ2, you could have a much more spacious city car, such as the desirable and equally well equipped Fiat 500.
Rival: Smart ForTwo
The diminutive Smart is even shorter than the iQ, which makes it a strict two-seater and a great urban runaround. Entry-level models are low on kit, while range-topping versions are expensive. The slow semi-auto and poor ride spoil the ForTwo driving experience, but a new stop-start system helps reduce small fuel bills even further.
Read More......
Peugeot 3008 Crossover - First Pics
Nissan bucked the trend first with its quirky Qashqai hatchback-SUV crossover, and now Peugeot are taking mixed DNA a step further with the 3008 – using elements from an SUV, hatchback and MPV. And Auto Express has the first official pictures of the French Frankenstein.
Formerly known as the T84 and previewed by the Prologue Concept at Paris last year, the 3008 is unmistakeably Peugeot. Its grille is stretched vertically to match the car’s tall but chunky stance, and gives the imposing look of an SUV. Large window areas in profile, as well as an optional glass roof, help to flood the cabin with light, while the over size LED rear lights and split tailgate demonstrate the 3008’s fusion of fashion and practicality.
On the inside Peugeot’s innovative Multiflex interior means that folding the rear and front passenger seats leaves a perfectly flat loading area, capable of swallowing 1,604-litres of luggage. Plus there’s a raft of new hi-tech kit - things such as a fighter-jet-style head-up display and a radar-controlled distance alert to help the driver maintain a safe distance to the car ahead.
To ensure it drives more like a hatchback and less like an MPV, Peugeot has introduced Dynamic Roll Control to the rear suspension, which keeps unwanted body-roll in check.
Engine choices include three diesels – the most frugal of which, the 1.6 HDi 110, emits just 130g/km of CO2 and returns 58mpg at the pumps. Petrol options consist of a 1.6-litre unit in naturally aspirated or turbocharged form.
More importantly however, from 2011 the 3008 will become the first hybrid Peugeot ever, using the same technology previewed on the Prologue concept. The diesel-electric powertrain will use the oil-burner to power the front wheels and an electric motor to turn the rears, resulting in a 35 per cent increase in fuel economy.
Prices for the 3008 range are set carry a premium of about £1,000 over the equivalent 308 hatchback models when it hits UK showrooms this summer. However, that’s not all Peugeot has in store. Our sources say the company is also readying an all-new seven-seat MPV, based on the same platform. This is due to appear in 2010.
Read More......
Tesla Roadster Sport
Here’s an electric sports car that’s really charged up! This is Tesla’s new performance flagship, the Roadster Sport.
It sprints from 0-60mph in 3.7 seconds, two- tenths of a second faster than the standard car. The extra pace comes from a hand-built electric motor and a lithium-ion battery. Other tweaks include sticky tyres, adjustable dampers and new anti-roll bars.
Tesla claims it has 1,100 people on the waiting list for a Roadster. If they want to upgrade to the Sport version, they’ll need to stump up an extra £10,000, taking the price to more than £100,000.
Read More......
Mercedes mulling sub-SLK “baby” roadster
Thanks to high-demand for green vehicles and more stringent fuel economy standards, Mercedes-Benz is once again contemplating an entry-level roadster. The new roadster would be based on the next-generation A-Class, and would give Mercedes a model to slot beneath the current SLK.
Mercedes-Benz has been mulling a small roadster since the 2000 debut of the SLA Vision concept, but the timing may finally be right for the launch of such a vehicle, according to Drive. Not only would the new model help Mercedes with upcoming fuel economy regulations, but it would also help the company branch out to a new class of buyers.
Although the next A-Class will retain its front-wheel drive layout, the road-going version of the SLA wouldn’t necessarily adopt FWD. Mercedes engineers have indicated the next A-Class’ platform will be extremely versatile, allowing for front-, all- or rear-wheel drive layouts. The baby roadster would likely use a more sporting rear-wheel drive setup.
Power for the small roadster would be sourced from a small four-cylinder, with an AMG model likely. However, unlike typical AMG models, the new roadster would rely more on technology rather than displacement for its added level of performance. Expect the AMG roadster to use a supercharged and turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
Mercedes has yet to green light the baby drop top, but it does get the thumbs up, expect it to hit the market in 2012 – just in time to do battle with BMW’s long-rumored Z2 small roadster.
Fiat and Chrysler announce partnership
Fiat and Chrysler say they’ve signed a nonbinding agreement for a strategic global alliance that gives the Italian automaker a 35 percent share in the struggling Michigan firm. The two companies announced in a joint statement that they intend to share platforms and technologies. Fiat would not invest cash in Chrysler, but would provide access to fuel-efficient powertrains, small car platforms and its global distribution network.
The announcement comes less than 12 hours after we learned that the automakers were holding discussions.
Chrysler’s Chairman and CEO Bob Nardelli, said that the benefits are trifold.
“A Chrysler-Fiat partnership is a great fit as it creates the potential for a powerful, new global competitor, offering Chrysler a number of strategic benefits, including access to products that complement our current portfolio (and) a distribution network outside North America,” Nardelli said in a statement.
Chrysler has said that partnerships were its only way to succeed. The automaker had worked out a limited deal with Nissan that saw the Japanese automaker producing small cars for emerging markets for Dodge in exchange for Chrysler-built, Nissan-badged pickups in the future.
The partnership would essentially guarantee the mid-to-long-term viability for Chrysler, which analysts have said cannot survive on its own. By gaining access to small car platforms and powertrains, as well as distribution networks outside of North America, Chrysler’s future would look considerably brighter.
Chrysler would likely take advantage of Fiat’s Eastern European, Russian, South American and Chinese distribution networks. Fiat had been seeking to introduce a new low-cost line, but those plans could be put on hold if Chrysler took priority.
Fiat, fresh off its own successful restructuring plan, would also gain further access to the North American market as part of the deal. The automaker has been attempting to push its premium Alfa Romeo brand back into the market ever since it left amid a sales downturn in 1995.
Alfa Romeo did successfully sell 85 8C Competizione performance cars in the market late last year, but the brand is seeking a broad return. Fiat has also expressed interest in capitalizing on the Mini Cooper’s model by bringing its own Fiat 500 minicar to North America.
The alliance is subject to further review by both companies, as well as regulatory approvals in both Italy and the United States. Keep checking back as this story develops.
Monday, January 19, 2009
Ford F-150 Lariat SuperCrew
As ubiquitous as McDonald's, the Ford F- Series has served as the vehicular Happy Meal for millions of full-size pickup consumers won over by its versatility, easy-handling nature and comfortable ride. And having been America's best-selling vehicle for most of the last 30 years, the F-Series has also served as Ford's chief cash cow.
Performance
In normal around-town driving, the F-150 Lariat equipped with the 5.4-liter V8 might not match the all-out thrust of its more muscular competition, but there's ample pick-up in this pickup. Although the 5.4 got more power this year (now rated at 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque) and a higher-output (292 hp and 320 lb-ft) 4.6-liter V8 debuts, a large part of the increased performance comes courtesy of the new six-speed automatic. With two more gears to use compared to last year's four-speeder, the new tranny allows lower gears at the bottom for improved acceleration while taller top gears allow more relaxed and fuel-efficient highway cruising. These powertrain revisions effectively address our chief complaint about the otherwise well-regarded outgoing model — its subpar performance. And the 2009 F-150's towing and hauling capacities — as much as 11,300 and 3,030 pounds, respectively — are best-in-class.
Stats are all well and good, but how does the new F-150 feel when actually lugging a trailer or hauling a bed full of bricks? Unstressed, to put it simply. At Ford's proving grounds, we took the 2009 F-150 as well as its three main rivals, the Chevy Silverado 1500 (5.3-liter V8), Dodge Ram 1500 (5.7-liter V8) and Toyota Tundra (5.7-liter V8) and ran them back-to-back in towing and hauling exercises.
With a 7,000-pound trailer lashed behind each of them, we ran all four on a hilly 2.5-mile loop. The others might've been stronger sprinters out of the blocks, but the F-150 felt the most composed overall. When it was time to go to work, the Ford just put its shoulder into it and got the job done in fine fashion. Where the F-150 felt steady as a rock and almost made you forget you were towing during the descending and curved portions of the loop, the Tundra made you more aware that there was something big and heavy being pulled behind you. The Chevy and Dodge split the difference in terms of towing feel, but the Silverado's engine got very noisy on the uphill climb, and felt like it was working overtime. The Ram's wider gear spacing had its engine pulling hard off the mark but then losing its legs a bit when hit with the uphill climb.
With 850 pounds of payload in the beds, the coned-off autocross setup in a large parking lot was next, to test how the loaded-up trucks felt when performing quick transitions (slalom) and a sudden lane change. Here, the Ford had the edge with its ideal steering response (no dead spot on-center and neither too quick nor too slow) and relative lack of body roll. The Chevy was a close second, but had more body roll, while the Toyota and Dodge were back a ways due to the Tundra's excessive body roll and the Ram's slow steering.
Having snagged the gold medal in this informal Olympics, the 2009 F-150 had its smart tranny and tow-friendly electronic gadgets to thank for its "no sweat" demeanor when doing grunt work. When in tow-haul mode, the gearbox held lower gears at the right moments, such as when ascending and descending steeper grades. The trailer sway control and integrated trailer braking kept the tail from wagging the dog, especially during harder braking when coming down a curved hill.
Our F-150 also proved to be a fine daily driver, thanks to its comfortable, quiet cabin, confident braking and precise, no-slop steering. A stouter yet lighter frame for '09, along with longer rear leaf springs contribute to the solid on-road feel and compliant ride.
Should you want the best fuel economy possible, know that this year Ford offers an available SFE (Superior Fuel Economy) package that provides an estimated 15 mpg city and 21 mpg highway. And that's for a roomy SuperCrew 2WD sporting a 292-hp V8.
Comfort
Already a comfortable rig, the F-150 has grown even more so for 2009. Ford reworked the seats for more support and over a couple hundred miles they drew no complaints from our editors. To accommodate the "truck-as-family-car" crowd, Ford stretched the crew cab body (SuperCrew in Ford-speak) 6 inches, which provides limolike room for rear passengers along with increased in-cab cargo carrying ability. That backseat also has a comfortably reclined backrest; in some of the Ford's rivals, the backrest is nearly as upright as a church pew. A flat rear floor means the rear center passenger enjoys the same comfort as his outboard truck mates.
In keeping with F-Series tradition, there are plenty of trim levels, including base XL, volume-seller XLT, sporty STX and FX4 and a trio of luxury versions. The latter include a new, blinged-out Platinum trim.
Function
Thoughtful features — both standard and optional — abound in the 2009 F-150. Deployable steps built into the truck's sides and tailgate allow easier access to the deep-sided bed, which can be fitted with a cargo management system and stowable bed extender. Gassing up is easier for '09 thanks to a capless fuel filler that Ford pioneered on its GT supercar a few years ago.
When you're back behind the wheel, a back-up camera takes the stress out of parking and Ford's Sync system allows voice operation of your music, the navigation system and your cell phone. Should you opt for Sync you can also get Sirius Travel Link which provides current weather, gas prices, sports scores and even movie listings and times.
Even if you load up your F-150 with options, the controls remain fairly straightforward and intuitive. The truck offers both USB and standard audio jacks, and Ford has installed more storage compartments for things like key cards and cell phones. The center console box is larger and can stow two laptops within, while the flat rear floor and flip-up rear seats allow seriously large items to be carried inside the truck's cabin. The Ford guys demonstrated this by putting a 52-inch flat-panel TV box inside the rear compartment of the F-150; none of the truck's competitors were able to accommodate this box.
Design/Fit and Finish
At first glance, you may mistake the 2009 F-150 for one of Ford's Super Duty trucks, what with its massive grille and squared-off edges. That's Ford's intent. Different grille designs (black on base trucks, chrome with mesh inserts on the upper trims) give each trim a distinct look.
Likewise, varying cabin accents, such as different wood-tone and metallic accents, give the interiors some pizzazz. Fit and finish in our test vehicles — ranging from the basic STX to the leather-lined Lariat — was solid, with even panel gaps and no squeaks or rattles.
Pros: Smooth and quiet ride, responsive handling, attractive and functional cabin, wide variety of configurations, class-leading work capacities.
Cons: Acceleration still not equal to its most potent rivals, tall tailgate and bed sides make parking tricky (unless equipped with back-up camera).
Subaru Impreza WRX Sedan
Pros: Plentiful power, smooth ride, capable handling, fun to drive.
Cons: Bland styling, plasticky interior, buzzy engine note, exaggerated body roll.
Performance
Subaru WRX Sedan Premium test vehicle came with the standard 2.5-liter intercooled and turbocharged four-cylinder engine, mated to a five-speed manual transmission that drives all the wheels. Thanks to a larger turbo borrowed from the WRX STI, output jumps to 265 horsepower and 244 pound-feet of torque (up from last year's 224 hp and 224 lb-ft). Even more notable than the bump in peak power is the manner in which it's delivered — there is a decent amount of low and midrange grunt, and power is spread more evenly up to the 6,500-rpm redline. The well-spaced ratios of the manual transmission's five gears capitalize on the power band's large sweet spot, though a 6th gear would probably alleviate some of the engine's highway buzz.
In testing, our WRX four-door accelerated to 60 mph in a brisk 5.2 seconds on its way to a 13.7-second quarter-mile at 98.7 mph — easily outperforming the Subaru's nemesis, the Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart. Fuel consumption estimates from the EPA are 18/25 mpg (city/highway) and 21 mpg in mixed driving conditions. As entertaining as the new WRX is, under our less-than-conservative right foot it managed only 18.4 mpg, identical to our results with the Mitsubishi.
The suspension changes for 2009 are the most noticeable improvement, creating a chassis that feels far sharper than last year's marshmallow-soft setup. Under heavy cornering the WRX still exhibits a healthy dose of body roll, though from the driver seat, the full extent of the sailboatlike lean isn't nearly as obvious as from the roadside. The new, stiffer suspension creates a far more tossable WRX, but it remains undisturbed over rougher surfaces, displaying an impressive reserve of compliant travel. After a few hours on tight canyon roads, it was hard to fault the new setup, since the WRX sedan willingly tackled every turn without losing its composure.
The 2009 Subaru WRX Sedan's steering, while precise, could stand to gain a bit more resistance and feedback, especially when you're sawing away at the wheel while bounding from turn to turn. The lighter steering feel makes close-quarter city driving and parking a breeze, however. The brakes remain unchanged from last year, which is to say they're on the soft side, but they perform exceptionally when called upon. In testing, we stopped our WRX from 60 mph in an impressive 107 feet with little or no evidence of fade.
Comfort
Despite the added handling prowess of the 2009 Subaru WRX Sedan, ride quality and comfort do not suffer. At highway speeds, it feels well-planted, with little road noise making its way into the cabin. Front seating is pleasantly comfortable, even during long stints behind the wheel. Additional side bolstering would be a welcome addition for those with sporting intentions, but the grippy surface materials do an admirable job of keeping passengers in place. Though lacking a multitude of adjustments, most drivers will be able to find an optimal seating position. The rear seats provide ample headroom, but lack the contour and sporty nature of the racy front seats. As with the front buckets, the grippy upholstery stations passengers with Velcro-like tenacity.
Function
From behind the wheel, outward visibility in our 2009 Subaru WRX Sedan Premium test car is excellent. Legible gauges remained so in practically any lighting situation, with a simple layout centering the larger tachometer prominently behind the steering wheel. An additional readout mounted atop the center stack displays time, temperature and fuel economy. Simple and intuitive climate control knobs are likewise well-placed, but the same cannot be said for the radio. Miniscule, closely spaced buttons lack tactile references and are barely legible, making glance-free operation difficult at best. Fortunately, the steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise control buttons are operated with far more ease.
In terms of cargo space, the WRX comes up short — not just because of the fairly small trunk (10 cubic feet), but due to an uneven and sloped floor. The split-level trunk limits cargo height and makes it difficult to load multiple items such as luggage and golf bags, as larger parcels tend to follow gravity backwards to the lip. The 60/40-split fold-down rear seats allow for more cargo, but at the expense of passenger capacity. Child seats are easily installed on the flat rear bench with a minimum of jostling or reduction in front-seat legroom.
Design/Fit and Finish
The 2009 Subaru WRX Sedan's dowdy styling tends to downplay its acceleration and handling capabilities, though the graceful sloping nose and aggressive hood scoop hint at its performance potential. From the rear doors back, the styling screams econobox, with homely taillights and wheels that look proportionally small compared to the slablike rear quarter panels.
The interior appears handsomely designed, with tasteful matte metallic trim framing the center console. Upon closer inspection, the plastic surfaces (which have the appearance of softer-touch materials) are actually textured hard plastic that seems to amplify the relatively low amount of road noise. Furthermore, the space between the instrument pod and dashboard presents a rather sizable gap, with sharp plastic edges. Though a minor flaw, it blemishes an otherwise successful execution.
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Sunday, January 18, 2009
Saturn Astra Vehicle
What's new on 2009 by Astra...?
The answer is Saturn Astra.
Now in its second year, the Saturn Astra brings a fresh look to GM's planetary body division, and it manages to do so without reinventing the wheel. The Belgian-made Astra isn't new; it comes across the Atlantic courtesy of GM's European brand Opel, which has been producing the current-generation Astra for about five years. Available in two-door and four-door configurations, this sporty hatchback has done well in Europe, and GM is hoping the Astra will find the same success here.
The 2009 Saturn Astra's European roots are evident in its premium cabin and practical hatchback design. Interior materials quality is high, and maximum cargo volume is 38 cubic feet -- 6 fewer cubes than the rival Mazda 3 wagon but a lot more than any compact sedan can claim. The Astra's driving demeanor also has a European flavor, as its sporty handling rivals that of any car in its class, particularly when the optional sport suspension is specified. However, the only available engine is a 1.8-liter inline-4, and it's not particularly pleasant. This four-banger isn't especially fuel-efficient, its acceleration is barely adequate and it drones intrusively at higher engine speeds.
Meanwhile, the unfavorable dollar-to-euro exchange rate isn't doing the Astra's pricing any favors. People expecting a domestic fire-sale bargain may be in for a case of sticker shock. Four-door Astras face steep competition from well-established economy cars like the Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Mitsubishi Lancer and Volkswagen Rabbit, though the two-door Astra will likely be more attractive simply because there are fewer competitors to choose from. Overall, neither body style can claim all-around superiority in its class, but the Astra still represents a promising new direction for Saturn, as well as a refreshing alternative to the status quo.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Saturn Astra is a compact car offered as a two-door or four-door hatchback. The four-door comes in base XE or the sportier XR trim level, while the coupe is available in the XR trim only. The Astra XE comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control, rain-sensing wipers, a trip computer, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, full power accessories and a six-speaker audio system with a CD player. The four-door XR adds alloy wheels, air-conditioning and an upgraded seven-speaker audio system with steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.
The two-door Astra XR is similar to the four-door but comes also with 17-inch alloy wheels, sport front seats, a sport-tuned suspension and a quicker steering ratio. These performance upgrades are optional for the four-door XR. Major options for the Astra XR include a premium audio system and a premium trim package that adds leather seating, front-seat heaters and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. A large sunroof is an option for both four-door trims, and 18-inch wheels with high-performance tires are offered for the two-door XR only. An optional advanced audio package, available on all trims, includes a six-CD changer.
Powertrains and Performance
The front-wheel-drive Astra comes with a 1.8-liter engine that produces 138 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. A manual-equipped two-door Astra we tested went from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds. Fuel economy for both body styles with manual transmissions is 24 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 27 mpg combined; automatics get 24/30/27 mpg.
Safety
Standard safety features include stability control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, whiplash-reducing front head restraints and the OnStar communications system.
Interior Design and Special Features
The 2009 Saturn Astra's cabin shows clear signs of its European heritage. It's solid and well-built, and a variety of colors and textures gives the cockpit a more upscale ambience than most economy cars. One of our pet peeves is that the single cupholder is placed too far back in the center console, requiring contortions from the driver to reach a drink. Also, while the trip computer's display is easy to read, its controls are somewhat confusing, and they're not labeled intuitively -- the button that displays fuel economy and range, for example, is labeled BC (for "board computer"). The Astra is also missing entertainment features normally found on GM vehicles, such as satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Cargo and luggage capacities are average for a car of this class. The four-door offers 12 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seats in place and a maximum of 33 cubes with the seats folded down. Cargo capacity for the coupe rises to 38 cubic feet despite its aggressively sloping roof line. That roof line also somewhat hampers outward rear visibility for the driver.
Driving Impressions
The 2009 Saturn Astra is a bit of a mixed bag when it comes to performance. Sporty suspension tuning and quick steering make this hatchback fun to drive, and the ride feels firm yet comfortable. However, the 1.8-liter engine is a letdown -- it doesn't have much real-world power, and it roars and drones like a vacuum cleaner. The feel of the manual shifter is also disappointing, with long and vague throws. The four-speed automatic, meanwhile, is at a comparative disadvantage against the transmissions of sporty rivals like the Civic and Mazda 3, which boast five-speed autos.
Pros
Hatchback versatility, upscale interior design, sharp exterior styling, engaging European-style handling.
Cons
Underpowered and unrefined engine, missing some expected audio features.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
MAZDA6
The 2009 MAZDA6 is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, or sports sedan, available in 7 trims, ranging from the i Sports Sedan SV to the s Sports Sedan Grand Touring.
Upon introduction, the i Sports Sedan SV is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, I4 , 170-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.
The s Sports Sedan Grand Touring is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6 , 272-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.
The 2009 MAZDA6 is redesigned for 2009.
Toyota Yaris
The second generation Yaris provides modern class and style while providing better cabin space and all-round better value for the money. There is a slight lack of excitement in the driving experience but that won’t matter to many buyers.
Event it was introduce in 1999, and since then it has been a very competitive choice among buyers in the supermini market
Practicality
The Yaris’ initial purchase price is somewhat higher to that of its competitors, but the car offers an economical range of engines, and good reliability. The car also comes with a high level of security which should help to offset some costs. Servicing costs should be routine.
For such a compact car the Yaris provides good levels of passenger room including good head and legroom. The car’s rear seat slides, reclines, and folds for additional versatility. The car can provide additional cargo carrying capabilities when the rear seats are folded.
The Yaris basic controls and dials are easy to use and functional. The green backlighting is not the best but the rest of the controls and displays are of pretty good feel and quality.
The Yaris has been designed for good levels of comfort. The car handles road imperfections well and provides a comfortable ride. Engine noise can get loud, but wind and road noise have been suppressed for the most part.
The Toyota Yaris design provides excellent access for front and rear riding passsengers. The car’s boot is easily accessible as well. The Yaris is small but accessibility shouldn’t pose a problem for most passengers.
The Yaris is fairly simple to park. The car’s light steering helps even more when it comes to parking. The car’s odd shape can be difficult to judge sometimes but shouldn’t take long to master.
Life Style
The Yaris provides a smooth and comfortable ride. The smoothness of shifting will determine on the system you have. Manual mode provides smoother shifts, and the diesel engine provides good torque and acceleration. The diesel variant is noisier though and may bother some drivers.
This would make a decent family car. Interior space is good and could easily accommodate a smaller family. The boot offers good storage space, and the rear seats can fold down to accommodate even larger items.
The Yaris would make an excellent first car. The Yaris provides an easy driving style, loads of practicality, along with low running costs and reliability. The initial purchase price may prove to be a little too much for some first time buyers.
The Yaris is a well built mini. It boasts good build quality, good practicality, and decent style. The Yaris can’t compete with some of the more prestigious brands though and badge snobs will look elsewhere.
New Grande Punto-based Fiat MPV
The popularity of van-based MPV people carriers looks set to continue with the all-new Fiat Qubo.
Using the Grande Punto platform as a base, the Qubo is aimed at drivers who want to combine versatility, space and a car-like driving experience without sacrificing individuality.
As easy to manoeuvre as a supermini, it feels as spacious and comfortable as an MPV.
This is achieved thanks to a large glass area that doesn't just give the interior its airy feel but also boosts visibility.
There will be two engine options, Fiat's award-winning 1.3-litre MultiJet turbodiesel and a pokey 1.4-litre petrol, plus Active and Dynamic trim levels that incorporate a generous amount of standard-fit equipment.
Safety features include driver, passenger and side airbags as well as head restraints and three-point seatbelts for all five seats.
ABS anti-lock brakes and EBD Electronic Brake Distribution are also standard fit.
The comfortable but versatile interior has been designed to look stylish while still being hard-wearing and driver friendly.
It's also capable of adopting 16 different positions. Remove the split folding rear seats and 2500 litres of load space is available.
Four versions of the Qubo will be available when it goes on sale this January with prices ranging from £9750 to £12,350.
Lincoln C concept gets hi-tech
Ford of North America has a luxury marque called Lincoln, which has unveiled the 'C' concept at Detroit.
Think of the Lincoln brand as a Lexus, Jaguar or Mercedes-Benz rival, and you're probably not far off.
What makes the C slightly unusual for a Lincoln is its size: despite ostentatious styling and high levels of refinement, it's only a C-Segment vehicle.
And parent company Ford is also using the C to showcase a plethora of 'human interface technologies', and in-car connectivity.
Ford's award-winning SYNC technology is a new system that helps intuitively connect occupants with the vehicle, their mobile devices and even the outside world.
Unique to Ford's human machine interface (HMI) strategy is the seemingly simplistic approach to how and where information is displayed.
All car-related information, for example, appears to the left of the speedometer, including fuel economy, trip information and vehicle diagnostics.
Passenger-related functions, such as audio, climate, navigation and phone, appear to the right of the instrument cluster.
The Lincoln C features the latest in terms of SYNC-enabled technologies, providing hands-free, voice-activated mobile phone, text messaging, and digital media player integration as well as security features.
Chrysler 200C concept revealed
One surprise unveiling at the Detroit Motor Show this week is the Chrysler 200C EV Concept.
Using similar technology to the Chevrolet Volt, this midsized saloon features electrically driven wheels, with a petrol-powered range extending engine.
Known as ENVI, Chrysler's system offers a 400-mile range - with 40-miles of all-electric use, with zero fuel consumption and zero tailpipe emissions.
Trashing the existing design language of cars like the Chrysler Sebring, the 200C concept is a more modern vehicle aimed to appeal to both luxury and sports car enthusiasts.
On the inside, the 200C EV continues the theme of embracing the future with a highly sculpted and richly appointed environment.
The interior is free of switches and levers. All vehicle functions, settings and uconnect features are managed via a panoramic multimedia touch screen, a passenger-dedicated "techno-leaf" and a stowable tablet PC.
The 200C's styling gives the marque some much needed modernism - the front fascia is reminiscent of Vauxhall's all-new Insignia.
Modern graphic cues, such as the use of a dissipating dot matrix, are utilised throughout the concept vehicle as both functional and visual elements.
Chrysler LLC, which also owns the Jeep and Dodge brands, is using the motor show to display a range of all-electric and hybrid vehicles.
Electric Dodge sports car
Based on the Lotus Europa, the Dodge Circuit EV is an all-electric sports car concept with typically muscular styling.
This all-electric vehicle delivers sports car performance with zero petrol consumption, zero tailpipe emissions and a 150-200 mile driving range.
Propelled by Chrysler's completely electric ENVI drivetrain, the Dodge Circuit EV posts impressive performance numbers.
It can do 0-60 mph in less than 5 seconds, the quarter-mile run in 13 seconds, with a top speed of more than 120 mph.
The Dodge Circuit EV utilises just three powertrain components.
These include a 200 kW (268 horsepower) electric motor to drive the wheels, an advanced lithium-ion battery system to power the electric-drive motor, and a controller that manages energy flow.
The recharge time can be cut in half by using a typical 220-volt household appliance power outlet, as found in Europe.
Dodge has tweaked the design away from its Lotus Europa roots - at the front of the vehicle, the distinctive Dodge crosshair grille adorns the nose.
The body sides feature a deep scallop, providing visual depth and also a functional rear-brake air duct.
At the rear, the functional elements blend with design to create a uniform finish.
But in typical Europa fashion, the interior is described as 'uncomplicated', suggesting a stripped-down mix of pure function and athletic refinement.
The Ferrari F60
The F60 is the fifty fifth single-seater built by Ferrari specifically to compete in the Formula 1 World Championship. The name of the car was chosen to celebrate the Scuderia's participation in all 60 editions of the Formula 1 World Championship since 1950 to date.
Ferrari have become the first team to officially launch their 2009 car after unveiling the F60 online. It is the machine that will be driven by Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen as they defend the Italian squad's 2008 constructors' title.
In line with revisions to the Formula One regulations for 2009, the F60 features a lower, wider front wing and a taller, narrower rear wing. Its name commemorates what will be Ferrari’s 60th F1 campaign.
The F60 is the 55th single-seater produced by Ferrari to contest the world championship and it will make its track debut on Monday afternoon at the team's Mugello circuit, with Massa behind the wheel.
The new car has far fewer aerodynamic appendages on its bodywork compared to its predecessor, due to the rule changes designed to cut downforce and promote more overtaking, with the driver now able to make minor front wing adjustments from the cockpit. The F60’s suspension and layout has also been completely reconfigured as a result, in order to maintain optimum weight distribution.
The F60’s design also takes into account two other major rule changes - the return of slick tyres and the option to use a Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS). Ferrari’s KERS has been designed in collaboration with Magneti Marelli and is centrally mounted on the engine under the rear part of the chassis.
The car’s seven-speed transmission has been redesigned to optimise its aerodynamic efficiency, while Ferrari’s Type 056 V8 has been modified in accordance with the new ruling that requires engines to last for three Grand Prix meetings from 2009, with rev limits cut from 19,000 to 18,000 rpm.
Technical specifications
Chassis
Carbon-fibre and honeycomb composite structure
Ferrari longitudinal garbo Limited-slip differential
Semiautomatic sequential electronically controlled garbo - quick shift
Number of gears 7 + Reverse
Brembo ventilated carbon-fibre disc brakes
Independent suspension, push-rod activated torsion springs front and rear
Weight (with water, lubricant and driver) 605 kg
BBS Wheels (front and rear) 13"
Kinetic energy recovery system by Ferrari in cooperation with Magneti Marelli
Engine
Type 056
Number of cylinders 8
Cilinder block in cast aluminium V 90�
Number of valves 32
Pneumatic distribution
Total displacement 2398 cm3
Piston bore 98 mm
Weight > 95 kg
Magneti Marelli digital electronic injection
Magneti Marelli static electronic ignition
Fuel Shell V-Power ULG-66L/2
Lubricant Shell
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Ford's Comprehensive Range of Low CO2 Cars
Ford's exciting new product line-up includes the most fuel-efficient family cars ever offered. The company's frugal, low emission vehicles and its sustainable production have both attracted praise.
Ford enters 2009 with an increased number of models emitting under 120g CO2/km and qualifying for road tax of only £35 annually. The complete new Ford Ka range, on sale January 2009, falls under the 120g threshold - as do new Ford Fiesta diesels which return up to 76.3mpg and less than 100g CO2/km. Ford now offers 51 sub-120g models - 18 more than a year ago.
Ford also boasts the most comprehensive sub-160g range of all manufacturers, with 185 models providing savings to company car drivers and their employers. With tax based on emissions, a 2.0-litre Ford Mondeo's 156g CO2/km results in £200 less company car tax per year.
From April 2009 companies will be able to write down the value of sub-160g cars at 20 per cent annually (instead of the 10 per cent allowance on cars emitting over 160g). The 2.0 Ford Kuga crossover has joined Ford's sub-160 range with a new front-wheel drive version producing just 159g CO2/km.
Acura TSX
When acura introduced the first TSX in 2003, we were prepared to be underwhelmed. A rebadged version of the European-market Honda Accord? More evidence that Honda was unwilling to give its premium brand a proper rear-wheel-drive sedan to go up against the BMW 3-series? We knew that the Euro Accord was smaller, more nimble, and less mainstream than the one engineered and built here for mass-market American tastes, but still.
As it turned out, we were smitten with the TSX from our first drive. Here was a sharply tuned, affordable, fun-to-drive sedan that proved once again that small can be beautiful. Sure, it was front-wheel drive, but it had one of the best front-wheel-drive chassis in the business. It had only four cylinders, but if any automaker knows how to build a good four-cylinder engine, it's Honda. Rarely, if ever, did we feel a desire for an extra two cylinders. This spritely, lithesome four-door immediately rose to the top of the front-wheel-drive sport-sedan class, circa 2003, rendering cars like the then-new Pontiac Grand Prix and Nissan Maxima largely irrelevant. Not inconsequential for Acura, the TSX also sold twice its original annual sales goal of 15,000 units every year since its debut.
Five years have passed quickly, and a new TSX has arrived. It is best to begin any discussion of this car by stating what Acura did not feel the need to add. The engine still has only four cylinders, and its displacement remains 2.4 liters. Power is actually down slightly, from 205 hp to 201 hp, although torque is up a bit, from 164 lb-ft to 172 lb-ft (with the manual transmission). The razzle-dazzle turbocharged four in the Acura RDX doesn't appear here, even as an option, due to packaging constraints and a desire to keep the TSX's price down. There is no all-wheel drive, and there is no dual-clutch transmission.And none of this is missed.
The TSX is still a pleasure to drive quickly. Or slowly. In heavy traffic or in light. On the twisty roads of eastern San Diego County's mountains and on the wide suburban boulevards leading back down into the city center, this car just feels good. It's light, in the traditional Honda/Acura way, but there is an underlying feeling of substance. Its high-revving engine requires more attention and input from its pilot to maximize performance than many of its more powerful competitors do, but this proves to be a rewarding, rather than onerous, task.
It's true, though, that the new TSX does not avoid the seemingly inevitable progression that afflicts all new cars these days: it is both bigger and heavier than before. The wheelbase, at 106.4 inches, is 1.3 inches longer; overall length is up by 2.4 inches; and the vehicle is a substantial 3.0 inches wider, with wider front and rear tracks. Curb weight has increased by about 160 pounds, although Acura saved about 40 pounds by using more high-strength steel in the car's body. Don't entirely blame Acura for these increases; blame the Europeans.
For now, U.S. buyers get only the 2.4-liter gasoline engine, which Acura says will return a combined 23 mpg (24 mpg with the automatic). The engine note rises harmoniously as you spin the i-VTEC four to its 7100-rpm redline, and power delivery is energetic even in the 70-to-100-mph sprint. The five-speed automatic now is equipped with steering-wheel-mounted paddle-shifters. Although the automatic rips through its shift points seamlessly, whether in D or the new S (sport) setting, we prefer the slick six-speed manual, which has revised ratios for second through sixth gears. As in the last TSX, this manual is the industry standard.
The New Generation Toyota Prius Revealed
A new chapter in the history of the Toyota Prius opens at the Detroit motor show with the official unveiling of the all-new, third-generation of Toyota's world-leading hybrid power car.
With a heritage of more than one million sales worldwide since the original model was launched in 1997, the new Toyota Prius takes the benefits of hybrid to a new level, promising even better fuel economy and performance and reduced full lifecycle emissions, from manufacturing through to ultimate disposal. These qualities are combined with sharper styling, improved interior space and comfort and a more rewarding driving experience.
The new Toyota Prius remains a full hybrid, a car that can run on its petrol engine or electric motor alone, or on a combination of both, according to driving conditions. It adopts a larger, 1.8-litre VVT-i petrol engine, while a comprehensive re-engineering of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system brings significant reductions in weight and size, contributing to the overall improvements in fuel economy and emissions.
Further weight saving gains are achieved through more extensive use of lightweight aluminium and ultra high-tensile steel in the Toyota Prius's construction.
The Toyota Prius is built on an all-new platform for better handling, stability and safety and it benefits from new styling that is sharper and sportier, while achieving even better aerodynamic performance. With the benefit of more wind tunnel testing than any other Toyota before, it achieves a coefficient of drag (Cd) figure of 0.25, the lowest of any mass produced car in the world. With particular attention paid to the flow of air beneath the car, this supports quieter running, improved stability and greater fuel efficiency.
The Toyota Prius retains its distinctive wedge shape and is only marginally longer than the current model, but changes to the roof profile improve rear seat headroom and revisions to packaging of the Hybrid Synergy Drive system allow for more space in the boot.
The interior has also undergone a comprehensive redesign, with improved ergonomics and styling that reflects the Toyota Prius's user-friendly application of advanced technologies.
The Toyota Prius performance and specification details specific to the European market will be announced at the Geneva motor show in March 2009. The model is due to go on sale in the UK in the summer of 2009.
Skoda Announces Q1 2009
Skoda UK has published its price lists for quarter one 2009. As ever, every model in the brand's range offers value for money, with excellent build quality, high specification levels, practicality and reliability at great prices.
Top of the list is the new version of the Skoda Octavia. This facelift model features some fabulous exterior and interior touches to bring the car right up to date, while retaining all the qualities that have made it one of Skoda's most successful cars.
The list also includes a limited edition vRS, based on the existing Skoda Octavia vRS. Only 500 of this edition will be built. The car features stylish anthracite grey metallic paint, special 18" 'limited edition' alloy wheels, distinctive badging and bespoke black and grey premium grade Italian leather seats, each stitched with the vRS logo and a tag featuring the unique production number of the car.
Also new for 2009 is the re-aligned Skoda Roomster range. The Skoda Roomster is now available in S, SE or Scout versions. The SE features £1,500 worth of additonal equipment over the outgoing Skoda Roomster 2, including acoustic rear parking sensors, electric rear windows, metallic paint, panoramic sunroof and sunset glass, making it tremendous value.
Other highlights include a GreenLine version of the Skoda Superb, combining outstanding comfort with environmentally-friendly performance, and very special BlueLine edition of the Skoda Fabia, featuring £750 of equipment over the Fabia 2.
Cadillac Converj Concept Car Unveiled
General Motors unveiled a further glimpse at the potential of electric propulsion today, this time in the form of luxury transportation, with the Cadillac Converj Concept. The Cadillac Converj was developed as a well-appointed grand touring coupe with a bold design and a host of interactive technology.
The four-passenger Cadillac Converj concept is intended to show how GM's revolutionary electric propulsion technology - called Voltec - can power a luxury coupe with a typically Cadillac 'no compromises' design. The technology enables up to 40 miles of gas- and emissions-free electric driving with extended-range capability of hundreds of miles.
Bob Lutz, GM's vice chairman of Global Product Development, said the Converj concept has production substance. "It's a logical extension of our plan to reinvent the automobile," he said. "It clearly shows what a Cadillac electric vehicle could look like, and clearly indicates that global luxury customers can have a car that has both strong design and electric propulsion with a total range of hundreds of anxiety-free miles."
Cadillac's extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) concept has a new body style that is an evolution of the brand's traditional Art and Science design theme. An aggressive, forward-leaning arc profile is the foundation for the sporting stance. And more than a Cadillac in form, Converj is also intended to be a Cadillac in substance, with the premium materials, technology and driving dynamics that are hallmarks of the brand.
The New Mercedes Benz E-Class
Mercedes Benz is presenting the benchmark when it comes to safety, comfort and environmental compatibility in the market segment. With more than 20 new or further technical developments, this saloon further consolidates the leading position of Mercedes-Benz in the luxury class. They include trailblazing innovations for safe driving that are available from no other manufacturer worldwide in this combination. Examples include the standard Attention Assist, optional Adaptive High Beam Assist and automatic emergency braking, which is activated when there is acute danger of a collision.
Mercedes Benz has improved the already exemplary long-distance comfort of the E-Class even further in the new saloon, including intelligent bodyshell technology with up to 30 per cent greater rigidity, further improved seats and a newly developed suspension whose shock absorbers automatically adjust to the current driving situation. The optional airmatic suspension now works together with an electronic damping system.
The outstanding safety and comfort of the Mercedes Benz E-Class are matched by its environmental compatibility and economy: the nine available engines are direct-injection units, and consume up to 23 per cent less fuel than before. The combined consumption of the new four-cylinder diesel engines is 53.3 mpg, which corresponds to 139 grams of CO2 per kilometre. All the engines for the new E-Class meet the EU5 emission standard.
Apart from the engines, the BlueEFFICIENCY (standard on all UK cars except the V8s) package for the Mercedes Benz E-Class is largely responsible for an average fuel consumption improvement of 3 mpg. Engineers from every development department have worked together to optimise numerous assemblies and components, to save fuel by means of reduced weight, a new shape, improved functioning or efficient energy management.
Other BlueEFFICIENCY measures include newly developed tyres with up to 17 per cent lower rolling resistance, need-related and therefore energy-saving control of the alternator, fuel pump, air conditioning compressor and power steering, and the ECO start/stop function (from late summer 2009) which switches the engine of the new Mercedes Benz E 200 CGI off when idling. Displays in the speedometer inform the driver how much fuel is being consumed (mpg), and when they should shift to the next higher gear in the interests of an economical and environmentally conscious driving style.
