Stacey's Auto Parts Resources

8,078 mile tour without oil change

2008-06-09T21:08:00.000-07:00

The Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is not only more comfortable, powerful and expensive than the average 2+2, for example the Porsche's 911, a 2+2-seater is a coupe with a tiny backseat that is in some cases uninhabitable, it is the newest flagship and not counting the limited-edition, $652,000 Enzo Ferrari supercar, which is sold out from the company that has an extraordinarily emotional relationship with automobiles.

Know what? The Ferrari Ferrari 612 Scaglietti is so impressive. Why? Because the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti owner’s manual recommends changing the oil after 10,000 kilometers (6,214 miles) or one year. The two 612 Scaglietti’s used in the ‘Magic India Discovery’ tour did about 5,000 kilometers (3107 miles) in testing and preparation for the trip, which brings their total to 18,000 kilometers (11,185 miles). Ferrari’s ‘Magic India Discovery’ Tour came to an end at the Gateway of India in Mumbai and the two Ferrari 612 Scagliettis completed their 13,000 kilometer (8,078 miles) trip. The two visited 57 cities without a single oil change.

For the trip Ferrari used Shell’s Helix Ultra motor oil. Besides just protecting the parts from mechanical wear, reducing friction and power loss and cooling the engine, the Shell Helix Ultra also contains active cleansing agents to help prevent dirt build-up and ensure optimal performance.

Ferrari engineer Andrea Costantini explained, “In collaboration with Shell, we made a deliberate decision not change the oil within our recommended timeframe,” “We knew that this would give us the chance to test and evaluate the engine in the tough conditions of India. We have been working with Shell for a very long time, many years, and we trust them, so we knew that the oil would not let us down on tour.”

Honda Fit Hybrid

2008-05-30T23:57:00.000-07:00

At the same time as Toyota may have a hybrid version of the Camry and the Highlander; when ‘Toyota’ and ‘Hybrid’ one thinks of the words in the same sentence, an image of the Prius is most to be expected to pop up in our head. That’s what people like about Toyota’s hybrid initiative and now with all the talk of throwing the Prius badge on a new family of hybrids just makes it all the a lesser amount of confusing.

Truthfully, Honda hybrids have been very confused with all the recent news of all the upcoming hybrids. Honda really hope that it will figures this out early, because they’ve got four hybrids planned to hit the market by 2015. The number two Japanese automaker just announced that it will launch a hybrid version of the Fit in its next-generation model.

“The Fit has great fuel efficiency to begin with, and if it put in a hybrid, it’s going to get even better, So with crude oil prices going up this much, I think a Fit hybrid is now starting to make sense” CEO Fukui said during a mid-year news conference.

Price difference between the regular Fit and the hybrid Fit will be less than $2,000 when it arrives in 2015, said Fukui.

Honda will roll out an all new dedicated and affordable hybrid model that will go a head-to-head with Toyota Prius, followed by a redesigned Civic hybrid next year. The production version of CR-Z hybrid will follow.

Nissan, NEC - A good Partnership

2008-05-20T01:58:00.000-07:00

Lithium-ion batteries at the present are further widespread in most of the gadgets like laptops, cell phones and others, while all the globe's foremost car producers are inventing some ways on installing the this Lithium-ion for their vehicles.

The latest Lithium-ion batteries will be extra though and powerful and also much smaller compare to the old one, loaded with nickel-metal hydride batteries that at this time is usually we can see in hybrid automobiles at this present days.

Nissan's joint partner through electronics expert NEC Corporation will spend $115 million to establish mass production of this lithium-ion battery, an invention generally versioned as answer for coming generation "green cars". Carlos Tavares, Nissan Motor Corporation Executive Vice President proclaimed on Monday that the Japanese car manufacturer desires to be a top worldwide leader regarding in "zero-emission automobiles."

A factory for the battery creation, planned to be operational by year 2009, will have yearly manufacture capacity of 65,000, and opening count of 13,000, according to Nissan Corp. The savings will cover three years, it said. The primary viable products with the latest batteries are Nissan forklifts in 2009, but electric cars for the U.S. as well as Japanese will go after in 2010.

But Nissan Corporation has rivalry in this event. Toyota has whispered that it will create a mass-producing lithium-ion battery also for all plug-in hybrids cars in this coming years. Japan's top carmaker is running with Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., which creates the Panasonic brand name and its products.

Buick Invicta Re-launched

2008-05-12T22:30:00.000-07:00

Last May 2, 2008, the ongoing life of how the Buick Invicta sedan concept car was developed at Beijing Auto Show. The Invicta is believed to hint at the following creation of LaCrosse, which will be built off the second-generation Epsilon - Chevy Malibu/Pontiac G6/ Saab 9-3/ Saturn Aura - designs, but truly, what they will see last Saturday is actually the real car. Its designs, according to Dave LyonGM interior design head, will attributes latest interpretations of the Buick “Ventiports" as they named it in the late '50s) along with the "SweepSpear," the asymmetric v-shaped profile style originated on various brand's vehicles in the '50s and '60s.

The midsize sedan design characterize a tag that Buick original name in 1959 and is a sample of the future LaCrosse car that we waited for and should see in coming year. Buick illustrates the design of the Invicta concept as a four-door midsize sedan together with roofline similar to coupe. The Invicta was planned through a cooperation both GM engineers from United States and China. It is also the two biggest markets of Buicks.

This Invicta production is power-driven by a 250 horsepower 4-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission.

Talking about the name, Invicta is better than LaCrosse. It's an unmarked name, used from the 1959 to '63 production years, despite the fact that the newest Century’s apparently were named for the usual age of their consumers, it was Buick's well-known replica in the late '30s up to 1954 to 1958. It has a Special's A-body, with the largest, most powerful engine coming from Roadmaster underbody. It would be a excellent name on a fashionable, powerful-looking substitute for the LaCrosse.

Keyless Fords…

2008-03-11T18:45:00.000-07:00

Throw those keys away. Yeah, Ford thinks it’s better that way.

And to make it a reality, Ford keyless technology will invade the mass market. The Dearborn-based automaker recently announced the arrival of keyless Focus and Mondeo – cars to behold!

Instead of carrying a 'transponder' unit, drivers can get into their cars by just pulling the door handle. The transponder makes the car unlock automatically once the driver grips the door handle. This is what smart technology is all about.

Once the driver is inside the car, the ignition is triggered when he presses the Ford Power button with the clutch pedal depressed. The button is similar to that fitted on Blue Oval’s rally and racing cars.

If the driver intends to switch on the car without revving up, he can press the button without engaging the clutch. Additionally, there’s a button on the driver’s door handle or boot lid to lock the car after parking it. Ford, however, provides a traditional key with an electronic fob.

Remember Casino Royale – the controversial James Bond movie? The blockbuster movie features the new Mondeo that demonstrates Ford’s remarkable ignition technology.

The automaker believes the keyless technology will be ideal for drivers in a hurry or carrying bags, especially in bad weather. Now, Ford parts will become more meaningful. “Locking your car key inside the cabin becomes a mistake of the past because the system’s interior antennae sense the key’s whereabouts inside the car and stops the locking mechanism,” said Rolf Schmitz, Ford electrical engineering manager.

“Some of this technology has been around on more expensive cars, but it’s nice to see that it will be available on the mass market now,” Which? Spokesman Anthony Hume said. “Stealing cars has reduced since the introduction of immobilizers, but we’ll have to see how effective this technology is at stopping thefts of radios or satnavs.”

With the advent of smart technology, drivers no longer need a key to start the engine or unlock the car. Simple as that. No worries.

Volkswagen Group Of America To Organize Career Fair

2008-02-28T18:17:00.000-08:00

Job hunting will never be as hard as cleaning oil filtersbecause according to Auto Channel, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. will be holding a job fair starting March 6 at the Westin Tyson’s Corner. The career fair, as announced yesterday, will run from 12:00 pm - 9:00 pm.

Furthermore, VW Credit, Inc. and the Volkswagen and Audi brands will be characterized at the fair as part of Volkswagen Group of America. Career opportunities are offered in the areas of sales and after sales business, accounting and finance, human resources, product marketing, marketing and communications, vehicle logistics, and other regulations.

"Northern Virginia and the Greater Washington, DC area have a skilled and diverse workforce and we look forward to introducing ourselves in person," said Mike Beamish, Executive Vice President for Human Resources, Volkswagen Group of America. "Volkswagen Group of America is charting an exciting new course in the United States and we are looking for the best and brightest to help us achieve success."

In addition to this, Volkswagen has carried out an insistent employing campaign which includes advertising in the Washington Business Journal, Washington Post, BrandWeek, AdWeek, MediaWeek, The Automotive News and Fairfax Times.

"We offer very competitive benefits, not the least of which is a great employee vehicle lease program," Beamish added.

J.D Power And Associates’ Five Strongest Car Brands In US

2008-02-25T17:32:00.000-08:00

If you are on the lookout for the strongest brands in the auto industry, where do you usually go? Whose advice do you seek?

Most often, you refer to auto experts, don't you? That is mainly the point why J.D. Power and Associates was established. J.D Power and Associates is a research firm that provides consumers and business customers feedback. Many industrial companies rely on the firm's research results to improve their competitiveness in the global market.

Just recently, the research firm released its list of loyalty and sales data, which reflect the country’s strongest car brands. I’m sure you’re excited to know the results.

According to egmcartech.com, Toyota and Hummer topped J.D. Power and Associates’ "bar exam" on loyalty and conquest, along with Lexus, Hyundai and Honda. That only means one thing: the five brands have captured the hearts and interests of their customers. The rates consist of computing the number of customers that either use or ditch the brand. Scores increase through customers who buy and trade-in their vehicles as new. If data show that a brand’s measurement drops from the average 100 index score, it signifies that the brand has to do something in order to maintain its customers.

Toyota, the world’s second largest automaker, got a new-customer rate of 267 percent, which goes to show that its customers were tripled compared to recorded figures in the previous years. Meanwhile, it received a 65 percent of loyalty score, representing 41 percent of total sales. On the other hand, the Hummer obtained a striking new-customer ratio of 427 percent along with 44 percent loyalty which stands for 16 percent of sales.

Unfortunately, Ford's customer-ratio slipped to only 44 percent which denotes a doubled number of Ford customers leaving the brand.

J. D Power and Associates Executive Director Steve Witten said in autonews.com that loyalty and conquest are equally important benchmarks in order to prove a car brand’s real strength.

Now, you know US’ five strongest brands. Take it from the experts.

Ford Fiesta: Heart In Europe, Eyes on the World

2008-02-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

“Fiesta” is one ambiguous word. In fact, wikipedia has 10 definitions just for this word. It could mean a festival party, a dinnerware, an apple cultivar, food, a supermarket, a British porn magazine, a 10-day traditional event called Fiesta San Antonio, a massively multiplayer online role-playing game (MMORPG) or an American R & B group.

But this upcoming Geneva International Motor Show set this March, it could only mean ONE thing: FORD.

According to autoexpress.co.uk, the all-new Ford Fiesta, after its meticulous European grooming, is now ready for its upcoming debut at the Motor Show in Geneva, Switzerland. The Ford Fiesta is the latest three and five-door evolutionary global small car product from Ford, the world’s third largest automaker.

Reports from jalopnik.com pointed out three major aspects of the all-new Ford Fiesta. First, the Ford Fiesta retains its Ford Verve concepts kinetic design. Second, the new Ford Fiesta model will be available in all Ford markets worldwide. The North American production unit will supply the demands of the North American market. Third, it will maintain its original name.

The new Ford Fiesta comes in a stylish and luxurious image. According to John Fleming, Ford of Europe President and Chief Executive Officer, it embodies the very essence of Fiesta which involves fun, vitality and emotion. The new Ford Fiesta maintained the previous Fiestas’ compact size however, it boasts of reduced weight and increased strength. Also, it is equipped with an Intelligent Protection System including a knee airbag to ensure the driver’s safety. In addition, it features an Electric Power Assisted Steering (E-PAS) that helps minimize road, wind and powertrain noise. I wonder if it also comes with an air filter recharge kit.

Furthermore, the Ford Fiesta has an exquisitely stylish and luxurious interior featuring a satellite navigation, computer as well as Bluetooth connectivity with voice controls. Moreover, it incorporates ambient lighting feature that gives the car an elegant red glow.

To add is its keyless go along with the “Ford Power” starter button.

Fiesta, that has been a victorious brand for almost three decades in Europe was a personal mission completed by Ford Chairman Henry Ford II, a passionate small car-believer. By 2010, Ford envisions to manufacture and market more Fiesta cars in Europe, Asia, North America and other leading automotive markets worldwide.

As Marin Burela, Ford’s Global Executive Director for small car development, puts it in jalopnik.com, “Fiesta has its heart in Europe but its eyes on the world.”

General Motors Has The Most Best-Value Vehicles

2008-02-08T17:19:00.000-08:00

Consumers want a lot of things from their vehicles. Some wants their vehicles to go a little faster, while some are looking for that vehicle which has a low appetite for fuel. But I am sure that all car owners would want their vehicles to be cost effective in general.

That means that after the purchase, you do not have to shell out big bucks for repairs once in a while. This is where the reliability and quality of the vehicles come in. The best vehicles in their segments where recently recognized with the Vincentric's 2008 Best Value Awards.

The Auto Channel reported that Detroit automaker General Motors has the most best-value vehicles. The automaker had ten vehicles taking home the top prize for their particular classes. But these awards came from large vehicle segments.

For me, that means, General Motors is succeeding in keeping up with the reliability of Japanese-made vehicles. On the other hand, they are still focused on large vehicles like pickup trucks and SUVs. There's nothing wrong with that if they are really fuel efficient. But even if these large vehicles have the best fuel efficiency in their class, it still guzzles up much fuel.

Toyota comes in close second with eight vehicles topping their classes. One of these is the Scion xB which has become a real favorite of young car buyers. It should really be cost effective as young car buyers are generally not as well-off as older car buyers. Honda, the second largest Japanese automaker comes in third with six vehicles awarded the best value badge. That number includes Acura vehicles which comes equipped with or without seat covers.

Hyundai Veracruz: Among The “Best New Family Vehicles”

2008-02-06T17:33:00.000-08:00

What does it take to be a certified “best” family car? Does good engine parts count as one of the major factors? How about the space and interior features? No matter what factors are being considered before being proclaimed as one of the best family cars, I’m sure that the 2008 Hyundai Veracruz had presented a great resume - that’s why it earned the "Best New Family Vehicles” honors from Kelley Blue Book!

The Auto Channel reported that the authorized editors from Kelley Blue Book picked the 10 best new family vehicles of 2008 by assessing all factors such as safety, interior space, price, resale value, fuel efficiency, capability and, importantly, kid-friendliness from a lengthy list of vehicle entries.

"If you're intrigued by the idea of treating your family to premium accommodations at mass-market prices, you'll want to check out the seven-passenger Veracruz mid-size crossover," said Jack R. Nerad, the executive editorial director and executive market analyst of Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com. "The quiet, comfortable, well-appointed Veracruz starts just under $28,000, offers a long list of desirable options and is backed by a reassuringly comprehensive warranty that includes 100,000-mile powertrain coverage and five-year, 24-hour roadside assistance."

The Veracruz is outfitted with the following standards:

A standard 3.8-liter V6 engine
Third row seats
AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio(R)/CD/MP3 audio system that includes six speakers
An abundance of superior safety equipment
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Anti-whiplash active front head restraints
Six airbags with side air curtains that protect all three rows during side impacts

Cellulosic E85 All Set To Race

2008-02-01T16:36:00.000-08:00

The world of racing has taken in technological advancements when it comes to renewable fuels. And today, the applications of alternative fuels in racecars are apparently successful which is projected to be the newest trend in auto racing. So much for green driveshaft and engine, let’s move on with the latest green racing update!

The Auto Channel reported that KL Process Design Group (KL) of Rapid City, SD, will provide cellulosic E85 racing ethanol for the 2008 American Le Mans Series. For the first time in the history of the race event, the groundbreaking fuel, which is produced out of waste wood, will be applied for the 56th Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring the American Le Mans Series offered by Fresh from Florida during the season opener in mid March.

"This is a groundbreaking achievement not only in motorsports, but also in the drive to relevant fuel technologies," said Scott Atherton, the president and CEO of the American Le Mans Series. "The American Le Mans Series was recently recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as the only motorsports entity to meet the criteria for 'green racing.' Introducing cellulosic E85 racing ethanol to our series with one of our most noted championship teams do nothing but reinforce our commitment to be the global leader in green racing."

"This is an exciting time for the ethanol industry," said Reece Nanfito, senior director of marketing for EPIC. "Consumers want more choices at the pump, and although challenges remain, cellulosic ethanol is no longer a dream, but a reality."

"Renewable energy from cellulosic feedstock has often been viewed as the silver bullet in our nation's efforts to reduce our dependence on foreign oil," said VP of Business Development for KL Process Design Group, Tom Slunecka. "There remains much work to be done, but this is a significant step in the process."

The Japanese Automakers’ Campaign

2008-01-30T17:46:00.000-08:00

Spread of diseases, warmer waters and more hurricanes, increased probability and intensity of droughts and heat waves, economic consequences and polar ice caps melting - these are just some of the harmful risks of global warming on the environment and all living things in the planet, that's according to Environmental Graffiti, the third largest environmental blog worldwide.

In their website, the group posted a question I'm sure everybody's also thinking
about lately: So what is the solution? Followed by series of questions like: "Will shiny plants save us from global warming? Will we have to teach global warming for kids?"

Japan automakers have an answer. And not only that, they also have a concrete solution. In AutoChannel last Sunday, Jiji Press reported that Japanese automakers are now speeding up their development of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

By the end of this year, Honda Motors is expected to start leasing hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles in Japan and the United States and mass-produce fuel cell vehicles within 10 years. Meanwhile, the Mazda Motor Corporation will begin delivering rotary engine-powered vehicles to Norway this summer. Those cars will be utilized by the Norwegian government for its HyNor national project in which hydrogen-fueled vehicles will undergo test drives along a 580-kilometer route between Oslo and Stavanger.

Using hydrogen in vehicles is perceived to be a great means to stop global warming because it does not emit carbon dioxide when burned, thus, making it an excellent replacement for fossil fuels. It's just like having an Acura Legend air filter in your car.

"We must realize a society that uses hydrogen as a main energy source in order to prevent global warming," said Nippon Oil Corporation Managing Director Ikutoshi Matsumura.

However, setting up of a hydrogen supply network is one obstacle Japanese automakers need to overcome for now in order to pursue its plans of producing more hydrogen-fueled vehicles. So far, there were 12 hydrogen stations built in Tokyo as part of a test project but more support are still needed said one Mazda official.

In the United States, nine automakers from around the world are boasting of passenger vehicles with either a hydrogen fuel cell or hydrogen combustion engine. Yet, only four companies - BMW, General Motors, Honda and Toyota, have just completed "real world" test research.

Since hydrogen is the most abundant element on Earth, using it to save the planet is a brilliant idea to save the planet from the destructions global warming might cause. But as always, it can be achieved step by step. No turning back.

It’s Snow Time In Washington

2008-01-28T21:36:00.000-08:00

In the western part of the Washington state, people are now preparing for snowstorms. But sometimes, some people still try to travel despite such dire weather conditions. In the end, they only lose to Mother Nature. They have to abandon their vehicles - auto parts and all - and find their way to safety.

But did you know that there is a right way of abandoning your vehicle during snowstorms? Yes, there actually is and that is according to PEMCO Insurance, one of the largest auto insurance companies in Washington. The spokesperson for PEMCO, Jon Osterberg, even shares that the best thing to do would be stay out of the roads and rather just stay inside their homes.

Anyhow, I do hope you do not get caught in a snowstorm, but if fate has destined you to be in one, let me share with you these tips I caught at The Auto Channel.

Try to get as far off the traveled roadway as you safely can.
Turn on your flashers, and leave them on. A dead battery is better than causing an accident for which you could be held responsible.
Set out flares to warn other drivers, if you can safely do so.
Make a reasoned judgment about whether to remain with the vehicle and call for help, or to strike out on your own. Some factors to consider are your health, clothing for the weather, distance to the nearest help, and likelihood of your vehicle being hit while you're inside it.
Leave a note in the window with your contact information. That improves your chance of hearing from someone who hits your vehicle, or from the authorities.
Take your most valuable items with you.
Be sure to remove personal information that could allow a thief to locate your home and loved ones, steal your identity, or otherwise defraud you.
Secure the vehicle by setting the emergency brake and locking the doors. Professional towing companies know how to safely tow your vehicle.
You can prevent having to abandon a vehicle by monitoring the weather before a storm hits. But if you're unavoidably caught in a snowstorm, be prepared. Proper snow tires and/or chains will help you maneuver through snow and ice. Keep emergency winter clothes and supplies in your vehicle to buy you time and protection.

Think you’re ready already?

Keeping In Control

2008-01-22T16:57:00.000-08:00

To car enthusiasts, speed and power spell control.

Just recently, ten of the world's fastest cars for 2007 and 2008 were identified by supercars.org. Shelby SuperCars' Ultimate Aero topped the list with a speed of 257 miles per hour. Now recognized by the Guinness' Book of World Records, it was the first American-made car to grab the title. While a car's speed depends upon its size and weight, convenience doesn't depend on speed alone. What is there in driving fast if you'll find yourself uncomfortable?

In order for anything to work efficiently, maintenance is a necessity for every car owner.
Based on AAA's Make Sense of Car Care inspections, it was revealed that modern drivers' failure to take good basic care of their vehicles is the number one cause of inconveniences like breakdowns and even accidents.

Just imagine yourself dealing with an overheated SSC Ultimate Aero's engine. Surely, you'll get a headache that is double than your car's radiator temperature. Equipping your car with a tested cooling system is one great option you have.

"To keep automobiles operating as efficiently as possible, it is important for consumers and their trusted service technician to take proactive approach to vehicle care and know specific areas to watch for the coming year," Kit Johnson, 2007 NAPA Technician of the Year from East Helena, Montana, advised upon stressing the fact that next to their homes, the cars they drive are often consumers' second leading investment.

So you want to keep in control? The key is simple: take care of your car's equipment and certainly, you'll get convenience as a bonus prize.

Top Ten Searched Vehicle Features

2008-01-18T17:51:00.000-08:00

Nowadays, new car shoppers are very particular in selecting vehicles. One of the major factors that attract customers is the offered features by a particular model. A car that exemplifies great quality and convenience is mostly the top choice for customers. Safety device like multi rib belts, interior standards and features are highly considered in picking the right vehicle.

Customers opt for a vehicle that comes with great features and offers nothing but the best driving experience for new car shoppers. So, what are the top vehicle features that are regularly searched for? One of the country’s leading and biggest retailer of used cars, CarMax Inc., reports the top ten car features searched for in their site last December.

"People told us that generally they know the options that are important to them, but often don't know which vehicle makes and models offer them. Now that people are able to search by feature, it's interesting to see what they are looking for most frequently," Yauger reported. "People want new technologies and we see that reflected with navigation systems ranking higher than ABS brakes and cruise control," says Ann Yauger, the director of carmax.com.

The Top Ten Vehicle Features Searched! Check this out:

Ranking / Feature
1. Leather Seats
2. Navigation System
3. Sunroof
4. 3rd Row Seat
5. Seat Heater(s)
6. ABS Brakes
7. Cruise Control
8. Manual Transmission
9. TV/DVD
10. Power Seat(s)

ALMS Testing Starts At Sebring

2008-01-12T22:58:00.000-08:00

Sebring International Raceway turns the green light on to signal the busy atmosphere. Why? Because race teams are getting ready for the much-awaited American Le Mans Series season. With the upcoming start of the ALMS, every team is checking on their engines, head gaskets, and other race parts to make sure that they’re all reliable. The testing performed by the participating teams is sending steam off the track.

On Thursday, Team Cadillac was joined by Dyson Racing, Penske and the Flying Lizard at the legendary track to start the '08 testing season. In 2007, driver Andy Pilgrim propelled Cadillac to the SCCA SPEED World Challenge GT manufacturers championship with a victory in the series' season finale at Mazda Raceway Laguna Seca, reported Tampa Tribune.

This season, Team Cadillac enlists 2004 SPEED World Challenge GT Rookie of the Year Michael McCann. He will be returning to the track where he savored his very first victory. "I won here in 2006 driving a Viper," McCann said. "I love this track, but these three days are for me to get used to this new car."

McCann, who was the 2000 and 2002 Viper Racing League Champion, had four top-10 finishes last season in the SPEED World Challenge and 12th in the points standings, the report continued. This testing session inks the first full-team test for the automaker and McCann.

Asked to compare the CTS-V and the Viper, McCann has this to say: "When you're driving a Viper, it is almost point and shoot," McCann said. "But it doesn't handle well in the corners. In the Cadillac, it handles a lot better and much smoother, but it has its nuances. I'm still getting up to speed."

More racing action is expected to happen with the upcoming start of the ALMS season. Brace yourself. This will be a pretty hot season.

Let The Speed Do The Talking

2008-01-10T01:07:00.000-08:00

Automakers capitalize on hard work, technology, innovations, and lots of words. Ah-hah. They talk too much that they sometimes go overboard. Without them knowing it, they are etching a perpetual dent on their reputation.

True, words are pretty essential in making a particular model sell. But lies could ruin everything. So let the truth be told. And the rest will follow.

At present, General Motors is rebuilding its reputation. And how should it be done? A good start would be the introduction of Chevy Camaro SS, the performance version of a muscle car. Instead, Chevy chose the HHR, an SUV/car/retro-crossover thingy, to give the badge a Super Spark, writes Scott Burgess. It may not be my first choice, but surprisingly, the HHR SS was fast on the open desert roads, spirited on the track and an all-out hoot to rip around corners during my test drive in Phoenix, he adds.

“The biggest improvement for the HHR SS is that engineers eliminated the car's torque steer,” notes Burgess. “Front-wheel drive vehicles try to drive into a ditch when you hit the gas hard. They pull you to one side because of the power, the driveshaft, the suspension, and how physics connects them all.”

It’s not just the flywheels yah know. There’s more to thank for...

2008 Chevy HHR SS
Type: Five passenger, front-wheel drive SUV.

MSRP*: $22,995 (*Includes shipping.)
Engine: Turbo charged 2-liter DOHC 4-cylinder
Transmission: Five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
Manual: 260 hp @ 5300 rpm / 260-lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Automatic: 235 hp @ 5550 rpm / 223-lb-ft @ 1650 rpm
EPA mileage: Manual: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway
Automatic: 19 mpg / 28 mpg
Length: 176.5; width: 69.1; height: 62.5; wheelbase: 103.6Notes: Offers a spirited drive with loads of power and good handling.

[credits: GM and Kelley Blue Book]

Report card
Overall: ***

Exterior: Good: You either love it or hate it. But the HHR SS offers a meaner look than its more sedate brother. The front end was reworked and made especially more aggressive.
Interior: Good: Comfortable and utilitarian, the seats are upgraded in the SS and instrument gauges were changed. The second row is comfortable.
Performance: Excellent: More power, reworked suspension and a few add ons such as no-lift shifting and launch control give the car an exciting personality and great road manners.
Safety: Good: Standard stability control, front and optional side curtain airbags.
Pros: Fun to drive, offers lots of space, carries five comfortably.
Cons: The exterior is not for everyone. Visibility is limited.

[credit: DetNews.com]

Gas Price Is Number One Concern

2008-01-08T17:13:00.000-08:00

Nowadays, it is very evident that gas price is becoming the focal concern of every citizen in the country. Aside from maintaining our vehicle’s engine, valves, and all other auto parts, gas price is the number one pain in the pocket! It keeps on getting higher and higher. According to Auto Channel’s headline, Wall Street Journal/NBC News has released their latest poll and it revealed that Americans mentioned gasoline prices as the first economic problem that mainly concerns them.

"The best way to fight higher costs at the gas pump is to keep your vehicle running properly. You can't control the price of gas, but you can control how much gas you burn by proper maintenance and how you drive. Performing simple and inexpensive maintenance can save as much as $1200 a year in gas cost," says Rich White, the executive director of the Car Care Council.

As a result, the Car Care Council advises everyone that putting off vehicle care and maintenance can make the situation even worse. Appropriate vehicle maintenance will amplify miles per gallon. That’s why the Car Care Council offers driving and gas-savings maintenance tips to every car owner. Check this helpful info as published in TheAutoChannel.com:

Check your vehicle gas cap. About 17 percent of the vehicles on the roads have gas caps that are either damaged, loose or are missing altogether, causing 147 million gallons of gas to vaporize every year.
When tires aren't inflated properly, it's like driving with the parking brake on, and can cost a mile or two per gallon.
A dirty spark plug causes misfiring, which wastes fuel. Spark plugs need to be replaced regularly.
Replacing a clogged air filter can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent, saving about 15 cents on a gallon.
Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 22 percent on the highway and five percent on city streets, which results in seven to 49 cents per gallon.
Sitting idle gets zero miles per gallon. Letting the vehicle warm up for one to two minutes is sufficient.
Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. Each mph driven over 60 results in an additional 10 cents per gallon. To maintain a constant speed on the highway, cruise control is recommended.

GM Asks "What’s Next?"

2008-01-04T17:48:00.000-08:00

Everybody has a clear picture of the automotive industry in the future one way or another, and it’s seems to be as successful as the present time - or make it twice as successful! I can see car covers in the future, and they will be great for sure. But 20 years from now, what will power the planet’s vehicles? There are still unanswered questions… And GM also asks, "What’s next?"

According the Auto Channel, assessments on matters like these will mostly figure transportation in the 21st century. GM will highlight its 100th anniversary by introducing a worldwide dialogue through a program called GMnext. This is intended to speed the process.

"We're starting our second century at a time of fundamental change in the auto industry. We'll use GMnext to introduce some of our ideas for addressing critical issues concerning energy, the environment and globalization. In the process, we also hope to spark a broader, global discussion on these important topics," said GM Chairman and CEO Rick Wagoner.

GMnext will draw attention to GM's unveiling of next-generation vehicles and technologies. It will consist of the latest applications of the E-Flex drive system and also, the constant work on the company’s line of Plug-In and Two-Mode hybrid vehicles.

Carroll Shelby’s 85th Birthday

2008-01-02T18:07:00.000-08:00

The living legend Carroll Shelby with his Shelby Automobiles will celebrate his 85th birthday with spectacular events that will take place in the Las Vegas factory on January 11-13, 2008. According to my source, the affair will consist of a chili cook off, an autograph session with Mr. Shelby and a variety of other activities like a car show, a 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR exhibit, and open track sessions. This is definitely the most anticipated event in the first month of 2008! Smoking radiators are nothing compared to the heat of this upcoming occasion.

“Carroll Shelby is an American hero who changed the face of automotive performance,” said Amy Boylan, the president of Shelby Automobiles. “We’re going to kick off a year long celebration of this amazing man’s life with a serious party. Working with Team Shelby, we’ll throw a party Carroll’s way with lots of ways for enthusiasts to enjoy their cars. It will be one of the single most important events of 2008 for Shelby fans.”

Carroll Shelby reigned over sports car racing during the mid-1950s and this is when he won Sports Car Illustrated’s “Driver of the Year” twice. His greatest achievement took place in 1959 when he won the 24 Hours of Le Mans.

“Team Shelby was founded to give everyone who loves the Cobra, Shelby GT, GLH and GT500, as well as Mustangs modified with genuine Shelby parts, new ways to enjoy their car. This birthday celebration will be our first major Team Shelby event and will demonstrate the ‘go fast, have fun’ attitude that runs through our group,” added Robert Lane, the co-founder of Team Shelby.

According to the Auto Channel, the celebration will consist of different events that will feature:

Birthday party for Mr. Shelby
1 day of open track action at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway
1 day of drag racing at the Las Vegas Motor Speedway
Parts swap meet and vendor area
Chili cook off demonstration
Exhibit of the 2008 Ford Shelby GT500KR production cars
Hertz Shelby reunion and car show at the Shelby factory
Autograph session with Carroll Shelby and special guests

Top 10 Lady Cars

2007-12-31T04:09:00.000-08:00

I was not really surprised upon knowing that the BMW Z4 won the Top 10 Most Luxurious Cars Driven by Women list as released by Forbesauto.com. Here is the top ten list.

1. BMW Z4
Primary driver: 61.18% female
Total respondents: 12,284*

2. Audi A3
Primary driver: 53.41% female
Total respondents: 8,040*

3. Volvo S60
Primary driver: 52.72% female
Total respondents: 25,753*

4. Volvo V70 and C70
Primary driver: 50.61% female
Total respondents: 22,681*

5. Lincoln Zephyr/MKZ
Primary driver: 50.32% female
Total respondents: 33,114*

6. Volvo S40
Primary driver: 50.27% female
Total respondents: 24,566*

7. Audi A6
Primary driver: 50.16% female
Total respondents: 16,216*

8. Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Primary driver: 50.071% female
Total respondents: 18,757*

9. Cadillac SRX
Primary driver: 50.070% female
Total respondents: 22,043

10. Lexus IS
Primary driver: 50.069% female
Total respondents: 54,267*

According to Forbesauto.com, the BMW Z4 is “like a model athlete, the winner of our list is a stellar yet civil performer. Either of the available six-cylinder engines make this two-seater exceedingly fast while returning 30 mpg on the highway. The bold styling tempers chiseled aggressive shapes with softer forms. A coupe joins the roadster for 2007.” It also wears the same BMW 330ic radiator just like the other BMW models.

The 2008 North American International Auto Show

2007-12-30T04:45:00.000-08:00

Calling all American car aficionados! The 2008 North American International Auto Show is underway and it is expected to be as exciting as ever. According to TheAutoChannel.com, automotive industry insiders will come together at Cobo Center in Detroit for the 2008 North American International Auto Show on Wednesday, Jan. 16, from noon to 9 p.m. and Thursday, Jan. 17, 2008, from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Radiators will surely heat up during this event!

"Each year we look forward to hosting this exclusive opportunity for industry professionals to get a preview of the many fantastic attractions at the NAIAS," said Carl Galeana, the senior co-chairman for the NAIAS 2008. "Industry Preview provides a unique occasion for industry insiders to network, attend informative special events on design and automotive trends, and get a sneak peek of the show before it opens to the public."

Here are the featured events during the NAIAS 2008 Industry Preview courtesy of the Auto Channel:

15th Annual AutoWeek Design Forum - Exploring the theme "Designed for Fun" the daylong forum celebrates design as the ultimate differentiating factor between products. Attracting more than 70 attendees, the forum also will feature the 2008 Editor's Choice Awards and attendees will tour the show floor. The forum will be held in Cobo
Center's Riverview Ballroom on Wednesday, Jan. 16 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Jesse James of the Discovery Channel's Monster Garage and owner of West Coast Choppers will be the keynote speaker.
Inforum's Annual Auto Show Breakfast - Themed "Beyond Green: Unraveling Sustainability Mystique," the annual breakfast will focus on the various environmentally friendly auto choices that are beginning to emerge in the market. The breakfast will take place on Thursday, Jan. 17 at the Detroit Marriott Renaissance Center from 7:30 a.m. - 9 a.m.

Nissan To Showcase FORUM Concept At NAIAS

2007-12-18T17:29:00.000-08:00

The 2008 North American International Auto Show is just around the corner and automakers are already announcing what vehicles they will be showcasing at the said event. Nissan is one of these automakers and the company announced that they would be unveiling the FORUM concept developed by Nissan Design America.

According to The Auto Channel, "as its name suggests, FORUM is conceived as a 'gathering place,' bringing adults and children together in two independent but linked 'zones.' Targeting families with older children who not only can entertain themselves but also demand to, FORUM respects the needs and desires of both grownups and kids."

Rachel Nguyen, the director for advanced planning and strategy of the company, had this to say: "From a conceptual standpoint, FORUM is closer to a family limousine than the minivans Gen Xers have grown up with. But unlike a real limo - or sometimes traditional minivans - the FORUM driver is just as important as the passengers. It offers a sophisticated space for adults and an engaging space for children - allowing both groups to enjoy themselves in their own individualistic ways while being connected in one vehicle. Like every Nissan, this dramatic FORUM Concept combines passionate driving, emotive design and an abundance of advanced, user-friendly technology."

"Traditional minivans are often perceived as the 'Mom's car' - but FORUM is designed to be gender neutral. The reality is that both Moms and Dads want style, performance and driving pleasure in their vehicles, whether transporting kids or not," she continued on the concept.

This design concept will surely not be in any production line any time soon. But expect that if Nissan decides to mass produce this, it will have components as reliable as window switches used by Acura.

TRW Builds A Steering System Plant in Slovakia

2007-12-16T18:06:00.000-08:00

This new movement also supports the Support Electric Steering Systems Growth. TRW plans to build another Slovakian plant in order to manufacture this first class steering system to push through its reputation as the leader in the electric steering systems global market.

"This new facility enables us to continue to provide our outstanding quality products with a more efficient cost base to support our global steering systems customers. The new site in Nove Mesto nad Vahom will supply precision brushless motor technology across our full range of electric steering systems,” said Steve Lunn, the executive vice president as well as chief operating officer of TRW Automotive.

Plant manager Chris Moorhouse also added: "This new facility is a state-of- the-art manufacturing site with the very latest machinery and technology, including six-axis robots, vision recognition systems and in-process precision CNC machining centers. We have been fortunate to have secured an excellent, highly skilled workforce, and are confident that this plant will make a continuing contribution to the Slovakian and regional economies and become yet another building block in the economic success story here in Slovakia."

TRW also builds electric column-drive and belt-drive systems as well as electrically powered hydraulic systems (EPHS), but this time wholesale auto parts such as the steering system has been making them more famous.

The facility plant will be building will employ 450 people at the 3,000 square meter site. It is expected to be fully operational in March of 2008. It will supply not only Europe with their very own steering system and the products would also make their way to the Asian car market.

Mazda CX-9 Proclaimed As Finalist For 2008 North American Truck of the Year

2007-12-14T17:37:00.000-08:00

The competition for the 2008 North American Truck of the Year just keeps getting fiercer and more exciting! One of the finalists for the said award is no other than the super Mazda CX-9. The CX-9 was named one of the three selected finalists at the Detroit Economic Club luncheon yesterday afternoon. The North American Truck of the Year (NATOY) consists of 48 members for their panel of judges which are all automotive journalists from different groups and companies in North America. There were a total of 13 contenders for the NATOY award and it was trimmed down to only three finalists after a thorough evaluation of each vehicle’s performance and parts such as their performance pulleys.

According to The Auto Channel, the ultimate winner of the NATOY award will be announced on the first press day of the North American International Auto Show which will be held in Detroit on January 13, 2008.

"We are extremely honored the Mazda CX-9 was named a finalist for such a prestigious award and pleased that our efforts have been recognized by such esteemed journalists in the industry. We designed and engineered CX-9 to be the very best in class, to stand out and rise above the competition. Being named a finalist for the North American Truck of the Year further proves that people are taking note of this and discovering what a joy CX-9 really is," says Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations.

A few months ago, the Mazda CX-9 earned Motor Trend's 2008 Sport/Utility of the Year(TM) and was included in Automobile Magazine's list of All-Stars for 2008! The CX-9 embodies a precisely genuine blend of sporty driving spirit with seven-passenger sport-utility vehicle (SUV) practicality. CX-9 is boosted by a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter V6 engine and showcases the latest technology called the Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM) system, which aids drivers to see and avoid the unforeseen.

Teen Driving Safety Promoted

2007-12-10T17:15:00.000-08:00

With the increasing number of teens being given the license to drive their own vehicles, the number of teen fatalities in car crashes has also risen. To fight this problem, a lot of steps have been formulated like giving tips to teen drivers on how to properly drive. Recently, Allstate Foundation created a contest to see who can make up a tune about driving smart. Teens across the country were urged to join.

At the end of the day, it was Danny Luebke and Carl Turner, both 18 from New Prague, Minnesota took the grand prize of $15,000.

According to The Auto Channel, Turner had this to say: "It's still so unreal. We're really excited about this -- performing was crazy, there were thousands of people there. Danny and I are so happy to have learned about Keep the Drive and The Allstate Foundation; we hope our all the other teens out there will check our song out on HolidayHolla.com and drive smarter as a result."

The mechanics of the contest involves teen creating a version of a Christmas tune with lyrics regarding smart driving. Among the numerous entries, teens were asked to vote on their favorites. After the voting ended, the top five pairs battled in the final event with country music star Taylor Swift as a judge.

Swift had this to say: "Car crashes are the No. 1 killer of teens. That's a scary fact, but something we as young drivers have the power to change. It's great for me to have this forum to reach out to my fellow teen drivers to promote smart driving in a fun way, especially during the holidays. Hopefully teens will start to think twice before doing something dangerous like text messaging while driving."

Luebke and Turner's winning piece is a remake of "Good King Wenceslas". The catchy melody and the lyrics of the remade Christmas carol caught the attention of the judges making it a shoo-in for the grand prize. This only show that even small things can make a lot of difference in the promotion of teen driving safety just like Toyota T100 parts plays a major role in an automobile.

Playboy Picks 2008 Hottest Cars

2007-12-08T00:23:00.000-08:00

This year, what cars will be the hottest? What cars will make your jaw drop? Let’s hear it from Playboy…

According to Playboy's "2008 Cars of the Year," a high-performance hybrid surges past competitors, a European import squeezes to the top, and a luxury automaker offers one of the most fuel efficient and affordable vehicles on the road.

Playboy’s top picks were selected by an expert team of automotive writers who traveled the world and test drove every new model hitting the showroom floor this year. The vehicles were taken on the sharpest turns, most challenging curves, and the steepest hills to properly separate the superlative from the mediocre, reports said.

The cars are not equipped with traditional auto equipment and accessories such as the Mercedes C32 AMG parts. They have far better features to show off…

Playboy’s Featured Cars:

PLAYBOY'S 2008 CAR OF THE YEAR: Audi R8
This mid engine sexpot boasts a 420 bhp, 4.2-liter V8, and hits zero to 60 in a sexy 4.4 seconds

BEST LUXURY SPORTS COUPE: Maserati GranTurismo
Features a 405 bhp, 4.2-liter double overhead cam V8 packs 339 foot-pounds of torque

SMARTEST PURCHASE: Smart ForTwo
Sits eight feet by eight inches long and weighs a whopping 1,807 pounds

BEST SPORTS SEDAN: Cadillac CTS
With a base engine of a 3.6-liter V6 that develops 263bhp, it is just as quick as the CTS-V

BEST SUV: Land Rover LR2
Equipped with a Terrain Response feature that adjusts the AWD and suspension for driving conditions

BEST CROSSOVER: Buick Enclave CXL
Proudly sits on 19-inch wheels and is available with a luxury package including articulated headlights

BEST CONVERTIBLE: BMW 335i
Not only does it whip from zero to 60 in 5.5 seconds, its light-weight steel top retracts in 22 seconds

BEST EARTH-DAY CAR: Mercedes-Benz E320 Bluetec
Outfitted with three catalysts and a filter in the exhaust that erases every trace of smoke and N2O

BEST PINT-SIZE PERFORMANCE: Volvo C30
Dances on the sporty side with its full-width glass hatch and clipped Manx Bobtail

To know more about the criteria used by Playboy in judging as well as the photos of those mentioned cars, you can visit www.playboy.com/caroftheyear. There, you can also vote for your fave road machine.

Challenger To Go $20K Over Sticker

2007-12-07T04:50:00.000-08:00

Dodge Challenger isn’t that affordable. What is surprising is that the automaker is adding $20,000 over its $40,000 sticker price for the earliest top-of-the-line production cars. But what is more surprising is the fact that shoppers are already lining despite the increase in price to be the first to own Dodge’s classic muscle car.

The muscle car from the 70’s has only been shown as a concept car. The actual production car won't be revealed until the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6, reported CNN. The cars will be offered for sale next spring.

But Chrysler, which makes Dodge cars, announced pricing in November for the high-performance SRT8 version of the car and allowed dealers to begin taking orders on Dec. 3. The MSRP for the upcoming Challenger SRT8 is $37,995, not including an expected gas guzzler tax that could add more than $2,000.

The coupes will be powered by a 6.1-liter V8 engine capable of producing about 425 horsepower. The 2008 SRT8 version will be produced as a "limited edition" series with each car getting a numbered dashboard plaque. Other lower-priced models with smaller engines will be manufactured later.

The maker of Dodge throttle spacers originally said that about 4,500 Challenger SRT8s would be produced for the 2008 model year, but more than 6,000 already have been ordered. The company may increase production to meet additional demand, Chrysler spokeswoman Kathy Graham said.

The initial run of 2008 Challenger SRT8s will be offered in only three colors: Hemi Orange, Brilliant Black and Bright Silver, said Graham. So far, more than half of the orders have requested Hemi Orange.

Additionally, a number of shoppers and dealers have listed pre-ordered Challengers on eBayMotors.com, with bids taken in terms of how much over the MSRP shoppers are willing to pay. Winning bidders are being asked to make a deposit of as much as $10,000.

One auction has already ended with a bidder agreeing to pay $20,000 over the sticker price. Another auction is now at that price and could go higher before it ends Friday, the report added. The Auburn Hills automaker will only accept Challenger orders from dealers with a customer name and address. Ordinarily, automakers will allocate cars to dealers without requiring an actual customer order.

Ford experienced a similar response when it launched Shelby GT500, a version of the iconic Mustang with a supercharged 500hp engine under its protruding hood. As with the Challenger, bidders on eBayMotors.com agreed to pay $20,000 over the car's sticker price of about $44,000.

According to Kelley Blue Book, even now, buyers still typically pay about $16,000 over the sticker price for that car, and slightly more than that for the convertible. Ford produces about 8,000 Shelby GT500s a year.

The Dearborn-based automaker charges dealers about $40,000 for each Shelby GT500. Any extra profit goes to the dealership and not to the automaker. Since dealers are independently owned and operated companies, they can't be compelled to honor the MSRP.

Ford has not raised the sticker price of the car, in part because its low retail price is part of the car's mystique, said Ford spokeswoman Whitney Drake. Increasing the sticker price might only raise the ultimate cost to customers even more, she added.

"There's nothing to say that if we did raise the MSRP, the dealers wouldn't still charge more," Drake noted.

A better-performing Shelby Mustang, the 540hp GT500KR, will hit auto dealerships about the same time the Challenger SRT8 goes on the market.

Car And Driver Magazine’s 2008 10 Best Cars

2007-12-03T23:12:00.000-08:00

It‘s fun when you get to see thousands of snowflakes coming down from the sky during breakfast time while sipping a mug of hot chocolate to warm our bodies in the blistering cold! But there’s something more fascinating than this and it's no other than the 10 best cars from the Car and Driver Magazine for their 26th annual 2008 January Issue. The special issue is already out today in every newsstand nearby! What are you waiting for? After cleaning your Acura brake dust shield, go get your own copy.

Anyway, here are the 2008 "10Best" awardees (in alphabetical order); followed by the number of times every model has made the list also published from my source:

BMW 3-Series (17)
Cadillac CTS (1)
Chevrolet Corvette (14)
Chevrolet Malibu (1)
Honda Accord (22)
Honda Fit (2)
Mazda MX-5 (9)
Mazdaspeed 3 (2)
Porsche Boxster/Cayman (9)
Volkswagen GTI (3)* *Award is for GTI model only

"The increased competition between domestic and foreign manufacturers has created a tougher annual contest, but the eight repeat winners deserve accolades for continuing to deliver outstanding quality, performance, value and driver satisfaction," says Csaba Csere, the editor-in-chief of Car and Driver.

"Last year, we saw a return of the small car to the list. This year, the strong showing by General Motors proves that the company's stable management and consistent strategy is really starting to pay off. For the new Chevy Malibu to make our list demonstrates that, for the first time in about twenty years, GM can compete with the likes of Toyota and Honda in the important family sedan segment," added Csere.

And The Winner Is…

2007-11-29T18:05:00.000-08:00

Well, the 2009 Nissan Murano was one among the cars at the LA Auto Show that received the Winner tag. The tag was given by three men from cars.com namely, David Thomas, Joe Wiesenfelder and Mike Hanley. These guys are all experts in terms of cars and they certainly know how every car part functions may it be the Acura air filter recharge kit or bumper.

Here are the comments of these three men towards the 2009 Nissan Murano.

David Thomas:
Winner

Nissan whooped up on everybody in L.A. The GT-R stunned the car-guy crowd, while
the new Murano won over the practical folks looking for an SUV. The interior had
Infiniti-level luxury, the power flip-down rear seats were practical, and the
styling up front was crazy, but in a good way.

Joe Wiesenfelder:
Winner

Excellent job on the interior; it's rich and comfortable. (If it seems like
we're fixated on interior quality, it's because you shoppers have proved to be,
too.) I still don't like knob interfaces for audio/climate control/navigation
systems, and when they are employed, they really ought to be closer to the
driver than is the one on the Murano, which, like other Nissans and Infinitis,
is right in front of the LCD screen. I think the rear end is an improvement over
the more bulbous look of the first generation. The Murano is one of a handful of
vehicles with continuously variable automatic transmissions that have stood the
test of time. Considering how long this crossover SUV has been on the market,
the Murano deserves to be better known.

Mike Hanley:
Winner

The Murano's unique face is contrasted by a rather pedestrian rear end, but the
inside of the car can have some nice touches, like a two-tone dashboard and
Infiniti-style navigation system. Crossovers are king in the car market
today,
and the new Murano looks re-energized to make a run at models like
the Ford
Edge.

Four New Base Cars From Volkswagen

2007-11-26T17:50:00.000-08:00

Europe's largest automaker is planning to add four new bases for their cars in the near future. This site reported that Volkswagen has earmarked 28.9 billion euros which will go to its automotive division for the next three years. According to the automaker, said amount will go to the development of new models. It is expected that new powertrain technologies will be developed by the automaker. And since they are going to develop new vehicles, it is also a given that they will spend a lot towards upgrading their assembly facilities to have it ready for production of new vehicles.

Earlier this year, the Volkswagen law has been scrapped by the European Union which means that Porsche will have more control of Volkswagen. Porsche has been very public in its goal with Volkswagen before and after the scrapping of the Volkswagen law.

The executives of Porsche said that they are looking to turn Volkswagen into an automaker which will rival Toyota in production and sales. The Japanese automaker is set to become the world's largest automaker next year. Volkswagen on the other hand has expressed their goal of overtaking Toyota in terms of production, and of course sales, sometimes after the turn of the decade. With Porsche now free to buy majority of Volkswagen, the possibility of Volkswagen rivaling Toyota is given more credibility. But even if Porsche takes over Volkswagen, I am sure that the latter will still manufacture reliable cars and auto parts such as Volkswagen Beetle distributor rotor.

We, who are on the sidelines can only wait and see what platform will Volkswagen come up with and which models will they cut and what new models will be unveiled.

Get Ready For Winter

2007-11-21T16:45:00.000-08:00

The weather's getting colder again and you know what it means. Apart from being the time when we celebrate the Holiday Season, this is also the time of the year when radiators are busted open, tires looses traction, batteries go dead, and other unsavory things that you can experience while you are driving on ankle-deep snow with blinding blizzard around you. So before winter comes, you better make sure that your car is ready for the coldest season of them all, well, there are just four of them.

I came across this article from The Auto Channel today and it's about "winterizing" your car. Whether you drive a Jaguar with good quality Jag auto parts or any other make, you should tae all precaution because you never want to be stranded somewhere while it is heavily snowing.

SafeAuto Insurance Company has offered a helping hand to us motorists and has listed down ten tips for the winter. You can visit The Auto Channel for the complete list or you can have them here:

Check the blades. Replace worn blades and don't forget to fill the car with washer fluid and antifreeze solution.
Keep a full tank. Keeping your tank at least halfway full prevents moisture from freezing in the fuel lines.
Winterize your tires. Monitor your tire pressure. Cold air causes tires to contract, reducing traction. If you are traveling through an area prone to heavy snow, invest in tire chains.
Check the battery. Cold temperatures reduce battery capacity by up to 50 percent. If your battery is more than 3 years old, have it checked by a certified technician.
Charge your cell. If vehicle trouble arises, it is far better to stay in the shelter of your car and make a phone call than to subject yourself to dangerous conditions.
Winterize your emergency kit. Stock your car with a flashlight, jumper cables, food and water, an ice scraper, a blanket, warm clothes and a first aid kit.
De-ice to unlock. A number of de-icing solutions are sold at discount or auto parts stores. But remember, if your locks are frozen, keeping de-icer in your car won't do any good.
Check your lights. Snow, sleet and freezing rain mean reduced visibility. Be sure your fellow drivers see you coming by making sure all of your lights are in proper working order.
Practice makes perfect. Haven't changed a flat in awhile? Don't know where your spare tire even is? It's better to prepare now, than to try and figure it out when the snow is piling up around you.
Winterize your driving skills. It takes longer to slow down when the roads are covered with slippery ice and snow. Brake earlier than you normally would and pay special attention at intersections where vehicles are coming from multiple directions.

So that's it guys, have a good one and dive safely.

Cali Designers Create Cars For 2057

2007-11-20T22:06:00.000-08:00

Where do you find the world’s trendsetters? You can say Milan, Italy. New York, London, and Paris may also cross your mind. Why not Baltimore and Dubai? Actually, there are lots of choices.

Arguably, you can add Los Angeles to your list of trendsetters. This time around L.A. zeroed in at futuristic auto design and concept. Where do you find those cars? Well, they’re at this year’s Los Angeles Auto Show. The said auto show hosted a design competition dubbed “Design Challenge: Robocar 2057.” The competition, sponsored by Yokohama, aims to jump 5 decades into the future.

The entries of the automakers in the design competition are more than just futuristic Cad Cam explorations; an description explaining the innovative design was crucial. But innovation wasn’t just the buzzword, some concepts dig even deeper by going all the way to the unfathomable.

This year’s most captivating concept came from the maker of Volkswagen Eurovan radiator. The Auto Channel describes the concept as follows:

VW Concept SlipStream

VW’s solution to the dense 2057 roadways is an advanced autonomous vehicle that adapts to minimize its footprint and drag coefficient. These two-wheeled, teardrop shaped pods travel in an upright orientation which occupies 1/5 the size of a traditional vehicle. On special highways, it tilts to the horizontal to optimize the aerodynamic shape. Rear fins slide out to allow the rear to float like an airplane and reach speeds of 250 mph. Designers from Volkswagen/Audi Design Center, in Santa Monica, CA put this in motion.

AIADA Contributing Editor Marty Bernstein describes the other stunners:

Mercedes SilverFlow

Designers of the SilverFlow envision a multi-dimensional vehicle composed of micro metallic particles that rearrange themselves to become a vehicle of a specific shape, literally by pressing a button on a magnetic assembler. The shape can be selected by the driver. Inspired by Mercedes-Benz racing vehicles from a bygone age this concept was created by the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Design of North America in Irvine, CA.

Mazda Motonari RX

Crumpled silver paper? No, the Motonari is made of a 100 percent, re-prototypable carbon fiber nano tube shape memory alloy weave with a photovoltaic coating (which, by the way, is yet to be invented). The interface between the driver and the vehicle is a driving suit made of millions of microscopic actuators, which enables the driver to experience the road psycho-somatically while making the driver and vehicle indistinguishable from each other. This sensational ride comes from Mazda R&D of North America in Irvine, CA.

Toyota Biomobile MECHA

Limited ground space in 2057 requires vertical structures resulting in new pathways to explore the new spaces. Toyota feels the solution is found biomimicry. Inspired by life, the vehicle is powered by pollution with dynamic driving instincts and structural adaptations to accommodate the users need for space. Nanotechnology also enables the vehicle to expand and contract to serve as a compact commuter. This environmental leap hails from Calty Design in Newport, CA.

Other concepts in the design challenge include Audi Virtuea Quattro, GM OnStar Ant, Honda 14, and Nissan OneOne.

What They Say About The New Mini Clubman

2007-11-16T17:31:00.000-08:00

The Kicking Tires has always been a good source of information. I usually visit the site daily to update myself with the latest news about motor vehicles. Today, they have a review about the latest 2008 Mini Clubman as released by BMW. Both Patrick Olsen and David Thomas had experienced driving the said car and here are their sides of stories.

Patrick Olsen:
“The Clubman's extra space eases getting in and out of this little charmer. Access on the passenger side, with the suicide-door opening, was really easy, even for me (6-foot-1). The backseat in the model I was in were a very comfortable leather, and even with an adult in front of me my knees weren’t crunched. It wasn't like sitting in first class, of course, but it would be passable for short trips. My kids would definitely be more comfortable in this car than they were in the original Mini, where they found themselves cramped at the end of a two-hour trip. The speedometer on the model I sat in was different from previous Minis I've driven; instead of a large dial, there's a red plastic piece that runs along the outside of the speedometer. In the center was a navigation screen with a joystick controller on the center console.”

David Thomas:
“I’m not the biggest Mini fan on staff, but I liked the Clubman. What I didn’t like were the rear doors, which are on extremely strong shocks. That means closing the rear hatch will take some effort. I’m hoping it was just a fault of the show floor models and not all Clubmans. The rear seats fold down easily from the back. The interior was better quality than the base Cooper, and an all-brown color scheme on one Clubman was especially snazzy. End result: Mini fans will rejoice. Me, I’d just take a regular hatchback.”

The car doesn’t certainly have Dodge headers as they are made by BMW but it is filled with great car parts you would definitely love.

Safe Vehicles Increased

2007-11-15T16:56:00.000-08:00

If you are looking to buy a car, what attribute of a car would you give much thought? Would it be performance? If you are the person who fanatically watches Formula One and NASCAR races, you would probably look under the hood and what the powerplant is capable of. If you are the type who wears the best clothes and accessories, you might look for a striking exterior in a car. But I am sure that whether you are looking for performance, fuel efficiency, or style, you are concerned about your safety.

Automakers are now coming up with vehicles which perfectly combine performance and fuel efficiency as well as style. But there are only a handful of automakers which are known for the safety of their vehicles. Last model year, there were only thirteen models which have gained the Top Safety Pick award from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or the IIHS. Vehicles which have received the said rating posted good ratings on crash tests performed by the Institute. They are also equipped with ESC or electronic stability control.

The number of vehicles attaining the highest safety rating from IIHS has increased according to The Auto Channel. After only 13 models made the cut for the Top Safety Pick award, automakers improved the safety of their vehicles resulting to ten more models added to the list through the course of the year. And now, for the 2008 model year, eleven more models were added to the list.

Honda performed well in the study. According to the report, Ford and Volvo have eight vehicles included in the list while Honda and its luxury division Acura have seven vehicles on the list. This shows that not only Asian vehicles like Subarus with their Subaru shocks are safe and reliable.

Some of the vehicles which made it to the list are the Honda Accord, Subaru Impreza, Toyota Tundra, Audi A6, Volvo S80 and the Volvo XC90.

Mood Swings?! – Nissan’s Got The Cure

2007-11-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

Mood swings pull you down. But not when Nissan’s around.

Why? Simply because the automaker is offering a wide range of colors to match your moods.

You've probably been there. And you will agree with me that when mood swings attack, other things are compromised. Now, the maker of Nissan shocks will offer something to make you more excited about making an auto purchase.

The automaker is working on some sort of self-healing paint system that can actually change color to complement your mood. Just flip the switch on the dash and your Sentra goes from white to red to black to whatever other color you desire. It's not a whole new paint job; the actual paint itself is changing color. This is achieved because the paint is a polymer-based substance with tiny iron oxide particles, reported HT Lounge. You can manipulate these particles with an electric current and based on the distance between the particles, we perceive a different color, the report added.

In America, the Nissan Sentra currently serves as the automaker’s compact car. It is engineered to rival compact models such as the Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, Chevrolet Cobalt, VW Jetta, Mitsubishi Lancer, and Honda Civic. Sticker prices of the Sentra range from $15,000 for a base model to $21,000 for a loaded top-of-the-line Sentra. While previous Sentras were subcompact cars, the Sentra has grown over the years, and now the Nissan Versa has replaced the Sentra in the subcompact area, although it is rated by the US EPA as a midsize car due to its interior volume.

Color choice may not be dilemma in the coming months. Imagine, you can still grab hold of your sleek black Nissan 350Z, but then you see a dazzling blue number fly by and wish you went with that paint job instead. Soon, you may not have to pick.

The Nissan 350Z is a sports car which entered production in late 2002 and was sold and marketed as a 2003 model. The 350Z, available in both a 2-door coupé and roadster, is currently available in a number of trim packages.

But drawbacks are just along the corner. Actually, you've got to speculate about insurance issues, because while the "default" color is white, what would it reflect on the registration papers? Another thing to consider is the potential high-speed chase where the car keeps changing color. What can you say about these issues?

Carbon Motors Teams Up With Lotus Engineering

2007-11-07T18:02:00.000-08:00

Unity for a good cause is always pleasant to the ears and to the soul. That’s what Carbon Motors and Lotus Engineering has done to generate the best purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicle. They are talking about a mean, enforcement machine as wicked as the Dodge Viper with the sparkling Dodge fender flares on the sides!

Two big names in the auto industry have proudly announced their joint venture two days ago. Lotus Engineering and Carbon Motors will dedicate their efforts for the improvement of the world’s first-ever purpose-built law enforcement patrol vehicle. The terms of the deal were kept confidential, unfortunately. However, we are delighted and we expect that something great will soon rise out of the two companies’ joint venture.

“I am personally very excited at this opportunity to demonstrate, not only to the USA, but also to the world what two creative companies such as Carbon Motors Corporation and Lotus Engineering can achieve. We will do everything possible to ensure the success of this tremendously exciting, innovative and creative project which, in my personal view, will meet the needs of the law enforcement automotive segment in the USA," says Michael J Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer, Group Lotus plc.

“We have been seeking a world-class high technology engineering alliance that would help us provide the best possible vehicle for our country’s First Responders - we have found that in Lotus Engineering. We thank the team at Lotus for joining the cause to provide the over 800,000 women and men in uniform patrolling our homeland with the appropriate equipment to help keep our cities safe. This project is projected to create well over 10,000 new direct and indirect American jobs with a positive economic impact of over $3 billion. Lotus will be playing a key role in helping us to achieve our goals,” says William Santana Li, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Carbon Motors.

An Ultimate Dream Car

2007-11-05T15:32:00.000-08:00

Every car maker’s dream is to make an electric car. And just before we knew it, Tesla Motors is doing more efforts to make green cars. Now, they are employing 250 employees in its Silicon Valley plant to make the ultimate green car as AIADA newsletter reports.

Most celebrities with George Clooney and Matt Damon in the list were mentioned to have deposited $98,000 for the Tesla Roadster. Aside from the two gorgeous male actors, there are also other celebrities who have done the same. Or perhaps you know that Silicon Valley A-listers like Google guys are Tesla investors.

"They have a real shot at success. Their Roadster, if and when fully reliable, is an extremely attractive proposition,” says Bob Lutz GM car czar. According to the electric car maker, they hope that the customers were patient waiting for their final tests. "Everybody will tell you that starting a car company is really hard. And they're right,” says Tesla's cofounder Martin Eberhard.

The Tesla roadster will be running on 950-pound bundle of 6,831 lithium-ion cells, which they say is the same size as an AA battery. And they still aim to go beyond becoming a battery supplier and will make new sports car for Hollywood.

The company is aiming to become a little too plugged-in. After they finish the Roadster, they still have $50,000, five-passenger luxury sports sedan on the drawing board, code-named White Star, that's due in 2010. And a few years later, Tesla hopes to have a $30,000 model for you and me, code-named Blue Star. I just wish they included Bilstein in their car parts.

"This is only interesting if we go mass market. The world isn't lacking for interesting sports cars,” Musk said.

Watch Out For The VW Space Up! Concept

2007-10-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

Concept cars brought nothing but all the excitement in the automotive industry! At the recently held 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, we have been impressed with several of the featured vehicles, and most of them are cool concept cars.

One of the surprising brands who came in with a great concept is from Volkswagen! They unveiled their Up! Concept at Frankfurt! I didn’t notice if they used cool parts like Geo shocks, but all I know is that the Up! Concept is a humbly radical vehicle.

So what’s new about Volkswagen? The Tokyo Motor Show is just around the corner and another batch of great cars will be unveiled. According AutomobileMag.com, Volkswagen will introduce their latest masterpiece called the Space Up! Concept.

If you don’t have any idea what type of car this is, just check this out!

Quick details at a glance:

Four-door version of the two-door Up! Concept from Frankfurt.
144.9" long - 9" longer than Up! Concept, and 1.6" higher
Rear-mounted gas, diesel, or electric engines
Two-part rear door
Up to 35.5 cu ft of cargo space (with all three passenger seats folded)
Eighteen-inch wheels with 165/50 tires

"The small van shows that we are consistently exploiting every millimeter of space and creating an emotional design,” says Volkswagen.

Automobilemag.com commented:
"Tokyo, a city filled with adorable boxy runabouts, is the perfect locale to showcase the Space Up! Like its Frankfurt brother, it has a face so cute you want to squeeze it, and interior space so vast you'll try to squeeze as much as possible into it. It's a very complex task creating a car that's so simple - in both design and usability - and VW has done it extremely well. Who would have thought that a rear-engined successor to the decades-old Beetle would be so much cooler than a successor to the couple-of-years-old front-engined New Beetle?"

Acura Make Great ALMS Comebacks At Laguna Seca

2007-10-25T01:31:00.000-07:00

Acura’s veteran drivers Adrian Fernandez and Tony Kanaan made Saturday’s American Le Mans Series season finale at the 2.238-mile, 11-turn legendary Laguna Seca Raceway a breathtaking finish for the pretty enthralled rally enthusiasts.

The drivers left an indelible blot on the thousands of fans who cheered them through the event’s finale. At the end of the 157-lap contest, Fernandez had driven his No. 15 Lowe’s Fernandez Racing Acura Lola to third place in the LMP2 division, with Kanaan taking the No. 26 XM Satellite Radio Acura ARX-01a to fourth.

Now the esteemed maker of the Acura ignition coil prepare for the 2008 ALMS season. The team is developing more powerful auto parts such as the ARX-01a chassis and the 3.4-liter, V-8 Acura engine.

ACURA QUOTES:

TONY KANAAN (#26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a): “That was a tough battle for our team today. We had to fight back from two laps down. But the AGR XM team never panicked and they helped me get back on the lead lap. I was driving very hard with the Audi, Penske Porsche and Adrian [Fernandez] at the end. That was exciting. It is so much fun driving this Acura car. Plus, racing at one of my favorite tracks is always great for me. I think the Acura program will continue to get stronger and get ready for the 2008 season. I believe the AGR Acura will be in contention to win Sebring again when the ALMS season begins.”

STEFAN JOHANSSON (#9 Highcroft Racing Acura ARX-01a): “I don’t know quite what to say – it’s highly disappointing. I think we could have won the race today – I just felt we had the car to do it. It was awful to get hit the first time and then even worse to get taken out completely. I don’t know if we would have recovered from the damage, but it was just body damage – the suspension seemed fine. I could have driven it back to the pits. We were so close but didn’t quite make it.”

ADRIAN FERNANDEZ (No. 15 Lowe’s Fernandez Racing Acura Lola B06/40): “It was a fantastic race for the Lowe’s Acura team. It felt great to have a great performance in front of our Lowe’s executives and also the [Acura] NSX Car Club who were cheering for us. I had a very good car today but it was a bit frustrating with the GT cars. I just didn’t get much luck with them today. Every time I moved to pass, they went the same way. I made a move on [Ryan] Briscoe to get in [LMP2] second place but a GT car slid right in front of me. Overall, it was a great way to finish the season and go into 2008.

BRYAN HERTA (#26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a): “I didn’t think the tires were going to be that cold on the start. I’m really disappointed by that, I really put us in a bad spot. It was an easy spin on the first lap but the car got stuck in the gravel and we lost a lap. Tony [Kanaan] jumped in the car and brought us back in contention today. He drove a sensational race. I can really see the Acura sports car program being very competitive in 2008.”

LAGUNA SECA RACEWAY RESULTS
American Le Mans Series LMP2 Class
1. Penske Porsche No. 7
2. Penske Porsche No. 6
3. LOWE’S FERNANDEZ ACURA LOLA No. 15
5. ANDRETTI GREEN ACURA ARX-01a No. 26
9. HIGHCROFT RACING ACURA ARX-01A No. 9

ALMS Point Standings (LMP2)
1. Romain Dumas, Timo Bernhard 239
2. Ryan Briscoe, Saasha Maassen 186
2. Andy Wallace, Butch Leitzinger 127
4. Chris Dyson, Guy Smith 123
5. DAVID BRABHAM, STEFAN JOHANSSON 119
6. ADRIAN FERNANDEZ, LUIS DIAZ 102
7. BRYAN HERTA 98

[Credits: Honda News]

Volkswagen Law In Jeopardy

2007-10-22T19:50:00.000-07:00

The largest European automaker is on the verge of being controlled by an automaker about 14 times smaller. Volkswagen AG is the largest automaker in the face of Europe. Porsche on the other hand is another German automaker that is relatively smaller than Volkswagen but is highly profitable thanks to its lineup of upscale cars.

Porsche has been buying shares of Volkswagen for years now and the only thing that is stopping the former from taking control of the giant automaker is the legislation in Germany which prohibits any hostile takeover of the brand popular for the Beetle. The highest court of the European Union though is about to come out with a decision that might make it possible for Porsche to control the largest European automaker.

Porsche has bought shares of Volkswagen for two years and has accumulated enough to take over the other German automaker. And Porsche has an ambitious plan for Volkswagen. That is making it into an automaker that will rival Toyota in terms of production and profitability. It was already reported earlier this month that Volkswagen is really aiming to top Toyota in the auto production wars. The chance of the brand doing just that will receive a boost, I think if Porsche will have control of the former.

Porsche's Chairman, Wendelin Wiedeking said that there will be no scared cow in Volkswagen' lineup. That means that if a nameplate is deemed by Porsche as something that is not worth producing, it will not manufacture them. That says a lot about Porsche's dedication to beat Toyota.

One of the things that Volkswagen has to do to make it a strong contender to Toyota is to regain its buyer base in the United States. Although sales of the German automaker in the United States has been increasing along with increased demand for auto parts like Volkswagen axle assembly, it is still lagging behind Japanese automakers in terms of sales output in North America. Porsche on the other hand is a favorite around the world. Its road rockets precision engineered are known by car buyers around the globe. That can go a long way in regaining Volkswagen buyer base in the United States. For now though, we can only wait for the decision concerning the almost 50-year old German law.

A Car Shopper’s Needs?

2007-10-19T00:09:00.000-07:00

What do you usually ask when you want to buy a car? All the questions you ask about the cars you want to buy can all be found on the net. And the recent study from R.L. Polk & Company revealed that people rely much of the answers to their queries on the net. It was also revealed that the internet is one among the most important media where these car buyers get their information about the shopping process as well as about looking for the best dealer to give them the cars they want.

Chip Perry, the AutoTrader.com President and Chief Executive Officer, revealed the results during the presentation of the "Future of Internet Automotive Advertising" at the J.D. Power Automotive Internet Roundtable held last October 17 through 19 at the Red Rock Resort and Spa in Las Vegas. He will be doing the presentation on October 18 at 10:30am.

“As an industry, we’ve got to do a better job of giving customers on-line access to the information they want. And manufacturers, dealer associations and dealerships should review their media mix and direct more of their branding and informational advertising to the Internet because that’s where the customers are focusing their attention,” Perry said.

The study shows 42% of new-car buyers relay to internet sources as the most helpful source of car information while 8% comes from television and 2% comes from the direct mail and only 1% comes form the radio and newspaper sources.

We can never deny the fact that even car parts like Monroe shocks are easily found on the net, right?

Compared to the 2006 survey held by the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), advertising dealers are found to have 27.3% using newspapers while 19.5% on television and 18.1% was spent on radio and only 11.5% of car dealers are using the internet. 10.2% of dealers are using direct mailing and 13.4% was attributed to "other" sources. In 2005, only 9.9% of dealers are using internet to connect with their customers.

Perry said, “There will always be a place for the kind of brand-building advertising that television, radio and newspapers are great at. But when 42% of new car buyers say they find the Internet the most helpful resource for car shopping and only 11.5% of auto advertising dollars are directed to the Internet, there’s a huge disconnect between where the customers are looking and where the messages are going."

“The increase in Internet advertising spending from 2005 to 2006 shows the industry is shifting, but not as quickly as buyers are moving to the Internet for their information. The company’s that increase their shift to the Internet in a big way could stand to gain great brand awareness and market share,” he continuously said.

“By far, the most important thing people want to know is ‘Is the car I want available to see and test drive? This confirms other insights we’ve known for some time - people shop for cars online, they don’t purchase online. After reviewing models, prices, features and other options online, people want to see the cars they’re considering buying,” Perry commented.

“The manufacturers have done a great job building sites that offer new-car buyers the features and options lists, configuration engines and presentation features that buyers need in making their decisions. That investment has obviously paid off according to these findings. Third party sites and individual dealer sites are still getting millions of hits and generating a lot of sales, but could do more to offer customers the features and information they say they want,” he said.

The complete details of the story are found on theautochannel.com.

The Best Cars For Commuters

2007-10-15T22:43:00.000-07:00

Commuting is a daily burden I cannot forego. As much as I want to wake up on the social side of the bed and start getting into a more people-oriented frame of mind, the mere thought of commuting would make me curse. Sigh. Why do I have to experience this on a daily basis?

I would like to think it’s fun to be part of a larger community and be acquainted with more people. But my unbearable rides make me long for hours of rest. At the end of the day, I just say to myself: Stay home, will you?

But if my other side of the brain starts to get stubborn, I take a jaunt – to my regret. I wish I just parked my car in the garage and make it don the VW car cover. I could have had serenity. Blame it on my itching feet.

Traffic jam, exhaust fumes, agitation, boiling rage, and a lot more. Those are the things that confront us each day. With this scenario in my mind, I ask: What is the best car for me – an unhappy commuter!

According to the latest study by the Texas Transportation Institute, with the nation's population topping 300 million, more people and more cars are commuting longer distances from far-flung suburbs and exurbs. Americans spent 4.2 billion hours stuck in traffic in 2005, wasting 2.9 billion gallons of gas. U.S. census data show the nation's average daily commute time approaching 25 minutes. with more drivers facing "extreme" commutes of 90 minutes or more.

The latest disappointing phenomenon is dubbed "commuter creep," with workers leaving before dawn to evade traffic. In 2000, 1 in 9 drivers was behind the wheel by 6 a.m. In 2006, it was 1 in 8, enough to put 2.7 million more commuters on the early road, for a sleepy total of 15 million.

But the best cars for commuters could alleviate the pain and wipe away some worries.

MSNBC reports:

The best commuter cars are comfortable, smooth-riding and spacious inside relative to their exterior footprint. They're maneuverable, safe and fuel-efficient, the report continues. Based on those criteria, we've tested leading models in a variety of classes to select the best of the breed.

With real-world needs in mind, we looked for commuters that addressed them: First, ultra-affordable rides that deliver maximum utility for the buck. Fortunately, this field is nothing like the cramped, unreliable econo-boxes of old. Today, $15,000 and change will buy a Honda Fit, a roomy, high-mileage subcompact that drives and feels like a much more expensive car.

Next, a fun-but-frugal group ups the style, features and performance without sacrificing economy. The Nissan Altima sedan, which combines serious curb appeal and sporty handling with a generous interior and an EPA-rated 31 highway mpg, fits that description perfectly.

An All-Economy team is led by hybrids, including the Toyota Prius, that deliver their best mileage gains in the city and in heavy traffic that commuters know all too well.

Forbes Best Cars For Commuters are:

1. Honda Fit
2. Smart ForTwo
3. Nissan Altima
4. Mini Cooper
5. Toyota Prius
6. Honda Civic Hybrid
7. Lexus LS 460 L
8. BMW 335i Convertible
9. Mercedes GL 320 CDI
10. GMC Acadia/ Saturn Outlook/ Buick Enclave

Like a hot, quenching espresso, let these cars serve as an eye-opening way to start a positive day.

For The Winter

2007-10-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

Christmas is approaching and that means soon, roads will be covered with snow. Can your car take on that treacherous road? If you have tire chains, make sure that they are always ready to be used. NADAguides.com's president and CEO Don Christy said that proper tires are key to battling the coming winter.

"One of the most important things people can do to prepare for bad weather is to equip their vehicle with proper tires," said Christy according to theautochannel.com. "In fact, if you own a rear wheel drive vehicle, a good set of snow tires may be all you need for improved performance. However, if your vehicle comes equipped with every safety feature on the planet, there's no substitute for safe driving. When it gets right down to it, careful driving is the most important safety feature of all."

If you are looking for a new car to buy, NADAguides recommends certain vehicles which has a lot of features suited for cold weather driving. One of these is the 2008 Audi A4 sedan with its reliable components such as the Audi starter, alternators, and other auto parts. The said car is recommended by NADAguides for its features like heated rear and front seats, a ski rack, retractable headlight washers, all-wheel drive system, all season tires, rain sensors, and heated exterior mirrors.

Other vehicles recommended by NADAguides are also equipped with similar features. Take the 2008 Cadillac STS for example. This luxurious vehicle comes equipped with optional all-wheel drive, all-speed traction control, a computer- controlled stability control system and ABS brakes with brake assist. And on those cold mornings, you can use the car's remote starting capability to start the car without having to freeze yourself walking to the car.

The 2008 Chevy Tahoe with its heated exterior mirrors, remote vehicle starting system, halogen fog lamps, and electronic stability program is also recommended by NADAguides. Plus, the powerful 5.3-liter V8 powerplant of the new Tahoe is equipped with General Motors' AutoTrac system which helps it adjust to varying road conditions. The "Built Tough" 2008 Ford F-150 is also included in the list provided by NADAguides. Its four-wheel drive configuration complementing its 4.6-liter V8 engine is reason enough to believe that it can tackle any road condition.

Other vehicles recommended by NADAguides are ye 2008 Hummer H2, the 2008 Jeep Wrangler, 2008 Land Rover LR3, 2008 Subaru Outback, 2008 Toyota FJ Cruiser, and the 2008 Volvo XC90. All these vehicles are fitted with features which will come in handy in the coming winter season.

Top Ten Most Stolen Cars

2007-10-09T02:19:00.000-07:00

I browsed the net early this morning and I visited theautochannel.com for my daily dose of car news. Hot Wheels of the National Insurance Crime Bureau made a companion study that identified the yearly top automobiles recorded to have quite a number of car theft reports to the National Crime Information Center (NCIC). The center identifies the model and when it was made and the date it was stolen in 2006. The complete detailed story is found on the NCIC official website.

For 2006, the most stolen vehicles in the nation were:

1. 1995 Honda Civic
2. 1991 Honda Accord
3. 1989 Toyota Camry
4. 1997 Ford F-150 Series Pickup
5. 2005 Dodge Ram Pickup
6. 1994 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Pickup
7. 1994 Nissan Sentra
8. 1994 Dodge Caravan
9. 1994 Saturn SL
10. 1990 Acura Integra

Last year, there were 1,192,809 motor vehicles found to be stolen and that number is fewer than the record set in 2005. About 42,417 units made the difference. The FBI's average valuation revealed an average of $6,649 per stolen vehicle and amounting to about more than $7.9 billion cost in total.

Robert M. Bryant, the NICB's President and Chief Executive Officer, said, "The decrease in vehicle thefts is certainly welcome news to law enforcement, the insurance industry and vehicle owners nationwide. At NICB, we have been providing the latest technology in auto theft detection and recovery equipment to law enforcement agencies from California to Florida. Through the support of our member insurance companies, NICB acquires and deploys License Plate Recognition systems and bait vehicles in an effort to reduce vehicle theft."

Theft records were down the next year but only 59% of stolen vehicles were recovered in 2006. And the rest? Well, we don’t know whatever happened to them.

Premacy Hydrogen Hybrid Unveiled

2007-10-03T18:53:00.000-07:00

Come the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, Mazda will formally unveil the new Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid. But ahead of said event, the Japanese automaker can't help but show their achievement to members of the media. The autochannel.com recently reported that the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid is powered by a rotary engine (surprise!). With Mazda being the only automaker mass producing vehicles with Wankel engines, it only follows that its concept cars should be equipped with two-stroke engines too.

Mazda, the maker of quality vehicles and auto parts such as water pumps, uses Wankel engines because of its advantages like being lighter than conventional four-stroke engines. Wankel engines do not have pistons so operation is less noisy. Aside from having quiet operation, the Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid as the name suggests also runs on hydrogen fuel.

Hydrogen is favored by many as the key to a greener auto industry. The power needed to push the car along is produced during the fusion of hydrogen and oxygen. Since two hydrogen atoms and an oxygen atom combined is equals to water, what a car running on hydrogen emits as product of combustion is only water vapor making it a very clean car. Other automakers like General Motors and BMW are also making headway in the development of hydrogen-fueled vehicles. General Motors has the Chevy Volt and BMW has the Hydrogen 7.

Back to the Mazda Premacy Hydrogen RE Hybrid, let us talk about that hybrid thing. Aside from being powered by an efficient, quiet, hydrogen-burning engine, the said concept car is also driven by an electric motor just like the Toyota Prius and other mass produced hybrid. The electric motor provides power to the wheels of the vehicle without burning nay petroleum fuel. The power needed by the electric motor is supplied by a Li-ion battery pack which Mazda declined to say where they got from. The battery pack is in turn recharged during braking by harnessing the energy produced during braking and using it to supply energy back to the battery.

Although it is a concept vehicle, it will be available for leasing next year. But, Mazda said that it will only be available in Japan and that they have no immediate plan to lease it in the United States. Guess we all just have to wait for this car to be mass produced by the FoMoCo affiliate to get a chance to own one. Being an affiliate of Ford, do you think Mazda will share this technology to make a Ford Focus Hydrogen RE Hybrid? What do you think?

Top Ten City Cars from Cars.com

2007-10-02T22:09:00.000-07:00

Cars.com is one among the most reputable websites that gives away car information like reviews, updates, news as well as the latest, hottest and newest cars in the market. Recently, the official website released the top ten city cars list and theautochannel.com revealed the list on their website. Here it is:

The Ultimate Urban Car

2007 Mini Cooper

Length: 145.6 inches
Turning circle: 35.1 feet
Seats: 4
City MPG*: 26 - 27 (premium gas)

Other Worthy Contenders

2008 BMW 328i wagon

Length: 178.2 inches
Turning circle: 36.0 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 17 - 18 (premium gas)

2008 Ford Escape Hybrid

Length: 174.7 inches
Turning circle: 36.7 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 29 – 34

2007 Honda Civic Hybrid

Length: 176.7 inches
Turning circle: 34.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG*: 40

2008 Honda CR-V

Length: 178.0 inches
Turning circle: 37.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 19 – 20

2008 Honda Fit

Length: 157.4 inches
Turning circle: 34.3 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 27 – 28

2008 Land Rover LR2

Length: 177.1 inches
Turning circle: 37.1 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 16 (premium gas)

2008 Mazda5

Length: 181.5 inches
Turning circle: 34.8 feet
Seats: 6
City MPG: 19

2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Length: 157.3 inches
Turning circle: 30.8 feet
Seats: 2
City MPG: 20 - 22 (premium gas)

2008 Scion xB

Length: 167.3 inches
Turning circle: 34.8 feet
Seats: 5
City MPG: 22

Two Mazda cars were found on the list namely the 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata and the 2008 Mazda5. Honda cars were also included like the 2008 Honda Fit, 2007 Honda Civic Hybrid and the 2008 Honda CR-V. Other cars were from Ford like the 2008 Ford Escape Hybrid and the 2008 Land Rover LR2. The 2008 Scion xB was the only entry for Toyota but the big winner was the 2007 Mini Cooper which was hailed as the The Ultimate Urban Car.

Acura’s ALMS Update

2007-09-28T23:00:00.000-07:00

Missed the latest swing in the American Le Mans Series? You want some recap of how well your Acura team is doing?

Well, don’t make yourself suffer much longer. Might as well cut the string that holds Damocles’ sword. Without further ado, use the Acura brake pads for us to do the recap…

The veteran driving pair of David Brabham and Stefan Johansson dodged fire, flying parts and bumping cars in the No. 9 Highcroft Acura ARX-01a prototype Saturday through the streets of Belle Isle to place third in the LMP2 class in the inaugural Detroit Sports Car Challenge through the streets of Belle Isle, reported Motorsport.com.

The event marked the fourth podium appearance of the year for Highcroft Racing and kept Brabham and Johansson third in the ALMS division point standings. Highcroft's third place Saturday gave Acura its ninth podium finish in this automaker's debut this season, the report noted.

Ho do Acura drivers find the race?

STEFAN JOHANSSON (#9 Highcroft Racing Acura ARX-01a):
"I was waiting to make my move on Adrian [Fernandez] for third. You have to be patient and make your move at the right time. I can't believe we made the bloody podium. I think we were in last place in the first hour of the race."

DAVID BRABHAM (#9 Highcroft Racing Acura ARX-01a):
"It was pretty intense out there. I got hit twice in my stint and those contacts took the aerodynamic parts off the front of our Highcroft Acura. We had a major push in the car because we lost the dive planes off the front of the car.”

ADRIAN FERNANDEZ (No. 15 Lowe's Fernandez Racing Acura Lola B06/40):
"We had a great strategy for the race which looked like it would have played out in our favor for awhile until we lost some time coming in for our pit stop. We were going for a win today. In all, I think we had a good race.”

LUIS DIAZ (No. 15 Lowe's Fernandez Racing Acura Lola B06/40):
"It was a tough race as we expected but we were again close to the podium. I had a pretty good stint and I was able to hold the No. 7 Porsche back. Unfortunately, I had a problem on my lap coming into the pits and I lost quite a bit there."

MARINO FRANCHITTI (#26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a):
"The XM Acura ARX-01a was fantastic. I don't know if we put too many laps on the tires in qualifying because the car wasn't really good at the start. After the first pit stop, we got new tires and the car was awesome."

BRYAN HERTA (#26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a):
"My XM Acura was awesome. We had a car that could win the race. It's a shame that we had a shift problem with Marino [Franchitti] and we had to sit in the pits for a long time to fix it. We just lost too much ground on the pit stop."

Crossover Rush, Speeding Up

2007-09-26T06:16:00.000-07:00

Automakers believe that they can strike gold with crossovers. Why? Because they say auto shoppers find cars too small for modern needs and sport utilities too inefficient.

In the past few years, automakers put emphasis on the manufacture of car-SUVs popularly known as crossovers. The vehicle is built on car underpinnings but flaunts a bunch of sport utility attributes. Since 1995, the manufacture of crossovers has never stopped accelerating. The growth was triggered by Toyota’s introduction of the RAV4.

According to data collected by Ward's Automotive Group, the Toyota Motor Corp. sold 56,709 units of the RAV4. In 2006, sales rose quickly as other automakers saw the growth potential, topping 2.4 million with more than 50 models for sale.

With the 2008 car model year forthcoming, automakers are hoping to capture a horde of auto shoppers like Dr. Melissa Sundermann who banks on crossovers. She wants more space for kids and their junk, said MSNBC.

Sundermann felt that her old vehicle, a Volvo station wagon, didn't have enough room. "In driving the kids around and doing car pooling, I just couldn't fit enough kids in my car safely," she said.

Sundermann started looking at sport utilities such as the Ford Expedition and Chevrolet Tahoe but wanted something smaller with better gas mileage. When her husband suggested looking at the Saturn Outlook, a new crossover vehicle, she thought it was odd because her image of the company was of one that made economy cars, the report continued.

"With all the options, the price was right. We were impressed that the gas mileage was fairly decent for a bigger car. I can fit all my kids and their friends and all my stuff and still feel like I'm driving a luxury car. It would just define me. I lead a sporty, adventuresome lifestyle. I'm a mother and physician. But I wasn't ready to drive a minivan," noted Sundermann, who competes in triathlons.

Aside from Toyota, Chrysler LLC won’t be using Dodge brake pads to delay the arrival of a potent crossover with the JC49 as internal code. According to an Automotive News report, Dodge will get a new crossover to compete with the Ford Edge and Toyota Highlander for 2008.

Described by Chrysler insiders as a "new concept crossover," the automaker hopes to differentiate the vehicle from regular crossovers, said Leftlane News. Pricing is expected to start around $20,000, with a volume target of 150,000 yearly. A Chrysler version - codenamed the JZ49 - may also be built as a 2010 model.

Ford, General Motors Corp. and Chrysler LLC lost a collective $15 billion last year as they were caught unprepared when high gas prices sent consumers away from trucks and sport SUVs.

Crossovers are more maneuverable and have smoother rides than the truck-based SUVs, said Lonnie Miller, the director of industry analysis for R.L. Polk & Co. "It provides kind of like the best of both worlds. It's a nice alternative to a minivan and as large in many cases as a gas-guzzling SUV," he said.

Audi Sets Ambitious Sales Goal

2007-09-25T17:28:00.000-07:00

I've always liked Audi cars. I may have told you this already but I really dig the grille on the A4. I'm also a fan of Audi Motorsport and it’s a shame that they have to pull out of that DTM race in Spain just recently. But Audi is still to be beaten in the American Le Mans LM P1 and they have won the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans two years in a row with a diesel race car. Anyway, I'm ranting about this and that about Audi because this post is about the German automaker and their so called ambitious sales goal set for the United States auto market.

Freep.com powered by the Detroit Free Press recently reported that Johan de Nysschen, the executive vice president of Audi of America, affirmed that he is looking to make Audi into a sophisticated, edgy luxury brand in the country. And moving the reputation of the brand to that level also involves increasing their sales output. That's why they have set an annual sales goal of 200,000 vehicles which they are aiming to achieve by 2015. Although the automaker has shown increased sales year after year in the United States auto market, the 200,000 sales goal will be no small feat for them.

Consider this: last year, the American arm of the German automaker sold 90,116 units of Audi vehicles in the country. Although that number is close to a hundred thousand, it is still a far cry from 200,000. Last year's sales for Audi of America is triple the number of Audi vehicles sold in the United States a decade ago reported freep.com. This year, the German automaker is expected to break sales record once again.

Today, the makers of the A4 and auto parts such as the Audi ignition coil, steering wheel, shock absorbers, and other auto parts is trailing other luxury automakers in terms of sales in the United States. Luxury brands Lexus, BMW, Acura, Cadillac and Mercedes-Benz sold more than 200,000 luxury vehicles last year. This will be a great challenge for the "other" German automaker to improve their offering to attract more car buyers to their dealerships.

As de Nysschen puts it: "What we want to do is to actually turn the fact that we are smaller than say a Mercedes-Benz or BMW to our advantage. We want to be the exclusive among the exclusive brands - really sophisticated, really edgy." So expect more jaw-dropping vehicles from Audi in the very near future just like the Audi R8.

The Best In Frankfurt Motor Show Admired By AutoWeek’s Editors!

2007-09-24T16:54:00.000-07:00

We’ve been talking about the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show a lot! I guess we just can’t get enough of this glamorous event! It’s a showcase of the best concept cars and the freshest 2008 models from different car manufacturers! It’s the hottest show so far, right? Volvo, Toyota, Honda, and Acura with the best Acura ball joints has exhibited the best stuff they have which brings out the greatest the industry has to offer!

These marvelous creations deserve the appreciation from critics, right? That’s what the only weekly, automotive-enthusiast magazine in North America has done today - the AutoWeek mag! They honored the best from the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show! I was fortunate I read about this news on TheAutoChannel.com yesterday! The AutoWeek editorial staff will proclaim its Editors' Choice Award winners for the 2007 Frankfurt International Motor Show in its September 24 issue! It’s only a few days before we know the best of the best from Frankfurt! The editors of the weekly automotive-enthusiast magazine have windswept show floors in Detroit, Geneva, Paris, Frankfurt and Tokyo deciding on winners in four categories for over ten years now. The awards are best in Show, Best Concept, Most Significant and Most Fun!

Here are the top honors selected by AutoWeek from all of the splendid vehicles at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show:

BEST IN SHOW: Lamborghini Reventon - "The sexy, brutal look of this ultra-sonic Lamborghini is something that will mesmerize car enthusiasts for generations. Our Best-in-Show award is bestowed on the car we all will remember years from now. That's clearly the case with this near $1.4 million Lamborghini, all 20 of which are sold out," says AutoWeek Editor and Associate Publisher Dutch Mandel.

BEST CONCEPT: Mercedes-Benz F700 - "With so many slick-tech tricks in the F700, this was an easy choice as Best Concept."

MOST SIGNIFICANT: Ford Verve Concept - "As the next generation Fiesta sub-compact hatchback, the slightly bigger and bulkier Verve allows space for higher hood and rooflines and raised seating. With concern that the small car will be too expensive to engineer in the United States and South America, how Ford resolves the dilemma is what makes an already significant car even more so."

MOST FUN: BMW 1 Series Coupe - "We can't wait to get behind the wheel of what will be, if the car holds true to its promise and its pedigree, one of the most fun products from BMW since it recreated the Mini Copper. Only this time, the fun comes in rear-wheel drive," said Mandel.

If AutoWeek has their top picks for the hottest cars from Frankfurt, well, I have mine too! How about you?

Is This Really The New Chrysler 300C?

2007-09-20T02:09:00.000-07:00

A year ago, Autoblog.com revealed photos of a spied 2008 Chrysler 300 doing its first tests. Although the mule did not reveal much of their new designs because the rear and front end was covered and the headlight plus its taillights were covered as well, only a few features were exposed. Autoblog thought that the mule on test was a completely redesigned Chrysler 300 but I guess they were wrong.

Chrysler did not actually gave the new car a total new look. Which means that the 2008 Chrysler 300 sedan only got a few tune ups compared to its previous ongoing model. Only a new taillight was given and a new lip spoiler which expectedly came from an SRT-8 model. Chrysler may have claimed that they have completely gave the new car a total revamp but the details only shows a minimum amount of changes.

Even the interior got a slightly new look. The only thing that makes it different from the ongoing Chrysler 300C is the new Nav system that will be fitted on the car coming out next year. Plus, the slightly relocated console that got closer to the shifter. There are actually minimum changes which does not the new car that interesting.

And aside from that, Chrysler also gave the new 300 these following optional equipments:

adaptive cruise control
new soft-touch surfaces for many interior panels
Chrysler's MyGIG entertainment system (hence the new nav screen),
"Fuel Saver Mode" display between the gauges.

All these equipments are given to the new car. But seeing how they somehow improved their new car, Chrysler may not be prepared to reveal a completely redesigned Chrysler 300C. This may be because of its present economic status but Ford managed to release more gorgeous car models despite its financial crisis. Well I guess Chrysler needs to do more effort to at least upgrade the car.

The Ideal Car From Subaru

2007-09-13T21:12:00.000-07:00

Isn't it frustrating for an automaker when a car in its lineup is being overlooked despite the efforts put into the development of such cars? That might be what Subaru is feeling with the Legacy. If you are a fan of the World Rally Championship, then you probably recognize a guy named Colin McRae. He brought Subaru to the top of the sport and he did that with a Legacy. But when it comes to popularity, many might mention the Impreza, or the Tribeca and the Outback on the list of Subaru vehicles they know.

So let us take a look at this car that has been overlooked by many but one that has the characteristics that can propel it to the top of its class. Let us start when the Legacy was just a new kid on the block. It was first introduced by the Japanese automaker in 1989 as a boxy car. That's not really surprising because back then, Subaru is already a leading maker of safe cars. As with Volvo, Subaru manufactures boxy cars because during that time, they provide the best protection in the unfortunate case of a crash.

Anyway, the Legacy of today is no longer boxy. In fact, it is for me, one of the sleekest cars in its class. The entry-level Subaru Legacy 2.0R is one of the variants of the Legacy. It is a concrete example how much people are missing when they overlook the Legacy.

When it comes to safety, the Legacy no longer depends on the boxy design of the vehicle. It now has a long list of safety features. The entry-level Legacy is equipped with six airbags. The automaker is also known for its all-wheel drive system. Having this feature means that the stability of the car is something that you can trust. Add to that the reliability of Legacy auto parts such as its steering rack, shock absorbers, transmission components and others.

The power of the entry-level Legacy comes from a 2.0-liter 16-valve quad-cam Boxer engine. This engine provides as much as 162 horsepower. Considering that it is only the entry-level Legacy, that's pretty good.

J.D. Power and Associates Study Reveals AutoTrader.com as Winner

2007-09-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

Okay, I am guilty. I used to visit The Auto Channel every time I need to feed myself with the latest news on the car market. And just this morning, when I was looking for a Mercedes C36 radiator, I bumped into this piece of news from J.D. Power and Associates' latest study called Overall Satisfaction among Both New and Used-Vehicle Services. And who do you think won the title? I guess you have a clue. It’s written on the title.

AutoTrader.com was able to reach the highest rank among all the dealers in the US for both used and new cars. AutoTrader.com is one among the most reputable market places for cars on the net. Success is what they deserve for preparing their assignments as J.D. Power and Associates gave them the Satisfaction with Online Buying Services title last Monday. Theautochannel.com has the news.

The New-Lead Services segment was captured by no other but the top ranking highest scorer AutoTrader.com. It even won seven categories among the ten satisfaction factors included in the index. The online company did received the highest score on the Dealer Support/Service and scored high on the Business Generation measure as it was powered by their overall performance with regards to the Quality of Leads as well as Gross Profit Margin.

Eleven among the thirteen satisfaction factors in terms of Used-Lead Services segment was captured by AutoTrader.com for four consecutive years. The company also had a great share for their hard work as they were able to receive these four of the five factor sets:

Business Generation
Dealer Support/Service
Transmission of Leads
Advertising to Consumers

The president and chief executive officer of AutoTrader.com, Chip Perry, was also quoted saying, "The Dealer Satisfaction with Online Buying Services Study clearly demonstrates AutoTrader.com's leadership and second-to-none commitment to facilitate both new- and used- vehicle sales, while delivering a superior advertising value, for our dealership customers. As the ultimate automotive marketplace, it's our pledge to continue to connect our dealer customers with the most in-market vehicle shoppers across the country while providing industry-leading customer service and support to help our dealer customers not only achieve, but exceed their sales objectives!"

Kudos AutoTrader.com for a job well done.

Volvo Car’s Alcoguard: No More Drink And Driving!

2007-09-11T00:23:00.000-07:00

There are countless cases of drunk driving not only in the U.S. but around the world as well. What are they thinking?! Drunk driving is a very much dim-witted thing to do! If you drink, don’t drive - it’s that simple! If you can’t manage yourself with all the booze in your head and stomach, just take a cab and go to sleep! Nice deal, huh?

Anyway, whatever warnings or laws the government has put up, such a law is still being broken by some hard-headed citizens. I just hope their Audi brake booster is powerful enough to save them from any danger when drunk driving accidents happen.

We should be thankful nowadays to some groups who continuously provide the best and in bringing up ground-breaking technologies that can possibly save lives when people seeping with alcohol still decide that they could drive home. One of these groups is Volvo Cars… as usual, safety comes first! Volvo Cars is the pioneering auto maker to introduce an innovative feature intended to help lessen the number of road accidents caused by drunk-driving.

The innovative feature is named Alcoguard! It is a completely integrated in-car alcolock that applies a highly developed fuel-cell technology - a key that is user-friendly and reliable at the same time.

"Alcoguard is a tool whose purpose is to help the driver make sober decisions. At present, one in every three traffic fatalities in Europe is alcohol-related. Our three biggest challenges for creating a safer traffic environment are speeding, insufficient safety belt use and drink-driving. The aim of our product is to help reduce the number of accidents caused by vehicles with a drunk driver at the wheel," says Ingrid Skogsmo, the director of the Volvo Cars Safety Centre.

Alcoguard will be available as an option on the Volvo S80, V70 and the XC70 from the start of 2008, and it will also be available on the company's smaller car models by next summer. Sales of about two thousand units are expected a year, and this number is expected to increase rapidly.

According to the featured story from Media.Ford.com, Alcoguard utilizes fuel-cell technology that is also used by most police forces in Europe. Before the car can be started, the driver has to blow into the wireless hand-held component. The driver's breath is examined in the hand-held unit which then sends out the results through radio signal to the vehicle's electronic control system. If the blood-alcohol limit of 0.2 g/l exceeds, the engine will not start.

"Fuel-cell technology is more expensive but it also produces far better results. Unlike semi-conductors, for instance, fuel-cells only react to ethanol and nothing else. In the fuel-cell, the ethanol molecules pass through a sensitive membrane and an electrical current is generated. This current is then measured. Higher current means more alcohol in the driver's breath," says David Nilsson, the Technical Project Manager for Alcoguard at Volvo Cars.

We hope that this component is available in all vehicle brands as a standard feature to help lessen road accidents. But still, the best solution is “don’t drink and drive!”

Volvo's Hybrid At Frankfurt

2007-09-09T19:15:00.000-07:00

In the beginning, Japanese and American automakers are the ones focused on the development of hybrid vehicles. Meanwhile, back then, European automakers have decided that developing clean diesel engines is the way to go. But nowadays, Japanese and Americana automakers are also staking claim in the growing diesel engine biz. And European automakers are now producing hybrids.

Nissan has announced that it will be developing diesel engines for its light trucks. General Motors has also joined the development of new engines with the HCCI engine. Volvo, a Swedish automaker, is now about to unveil its hybrid car at the upcoming Frankfurt Motor Show. The concept vehicle called the ReCharge Concept is a plug-un hybrid vehicle. One of the most interesting things about this concept is that instead of having one electric motor or two, this concept uses four electric motors powering each wheel. According to data provided by the Swedish carmaker, the ReCharge can cover at least a hundred kilometers before its battery needs recharging.

And that's where the vehicle's Flexifuel engine kicks in. This four-cylinder powerplant recharges the vehicle's battery pack. With this capability, the ReCharge Concept can consume from zero to 5.5 liters of fuel for every hundred kilometers.

Since it uses alternative fuel, the ReCharge is said to be more eco-friendly than hybrids of today. While hybrids like the Camry Hybrid, the Prius, the Escape Hybrid, and the new Mazda Tribute Hybrid show reduced carbon dioxide emissions, the ReCharge concept produces 66 percent less carbon dioxide not compared to conventional vehicles but compared to other hybrids.

Performance is also superb. From a standstill, this concept can reach speeds of 100 kilometers per hour in just nine seconds. Top speed according to its manufacturer is at 160 kilometers per hour.

Magnus Jonsson, the Senior Vice President for Research and Development at Volvo Cars, has this to say about the ReCharge Concept: "This is a groundbreaking innovation for sustainable transportation. This plug-in hybrid car, when used as intended, should have about 66 percent lower emissions of carbon dioxide compared with the best hybrid cars available on the market today. Emissions may be even lower if most of the electricity comes from CO2-friendly sources such as biogas, hydropower and nuclear power. A person driving less than 60 miles per day will rarely need to visit a filling station. Also, thanks to the excellent electrical range from a fuel consumption angle, the Volvo ReCharge Concept is exceptionally kind to the car owner’s wallet."

I just wish that a production version of this will be in the works in the very near future.

The Best Overall Prestige Brand Goes to Mercedes-Benz

2007-09-07T18:02:00.000-07:00

Kelley Blue Book Marketing Research's second quarter consumer automotive perceptions research study, Brand Watch, revealed that Mercedes-Benz deserves two among the line up of awards given by the said car oriented website. Thousands of car buyers have agreed that the European car brand was destined to take home the award as the winner for the "Best Overall Prestige Brand/Luxury/Sophistication” class as well as the winner of the "Best Exterior Styling in the Luxury SUV Segment."

Kelley Blue Book’s executive editorial director as well as executive market analyst Jack R. Nerad was quoted saying, "With a motorcar heritage dating back more than a century and technology that is as new as tomorrow, Mercedes-Benz has cemented its image as the foremost luxury brand among U.S. consumers. Mercedes-Benz' record of ongoing innovation in vital areas like design, safety and creature-comforts continues to reinforce its elite standing with the buying public, as our research attests."

The Chief Executive Officer and the president of Mercedes-Benz USA Ernst Lieb was also noted saying, "This really underscores the momentum that the Mercedes-Benz brand has in the U.S. market. We've had year-over-year record-breaking sales and are looking forward to our 14th year of sales increases in this crucial market. Aspiration to - and perception of - the Mercedes-Benz brand are at an all-time high. What's important about a study that's as comprehensive as this one is that it shows we're delivering on a broad set of customers' expectations both with respect to the product and the experiential aspect of owning a Mercedes-Benz."

Kelley Blue Book is an online resource of new and used car information. It updates their visitor about the latest news and comprehensive studies every now and then so their followers will receive more information that they need in terms of choosing the best car to buy and this does not matter if the vehicle is going to be new or used. In the said study, Kelley asked several customers about their perception towards which car brands deserve to win the different segments on different categories.

Just like stores that offer Volkswagen Jetta parts, Kelley Blue Book can see visited online.

A Close Encounter With A Tailgater! What Are You Going To Do?

2007-09-04T17:40:00.000-07:00

One beautiful Wednesday morning last week, I decided to take my car out on the street to find out if my brand new Nissan NX radiator works fine in my ride. It turned out to be a pretty compatible car part so I went on driving going to a nearby café to treat myself with a hot and aromatic mocha latte. After smoking two sticks of cigarette and sipping my drink up to the last drop, I finally decided to go back into my house.

I was running on minimum speed of 40 miles per hour with my favorite music playing in the car audio. I was humming to the beat and when I looked up on my rear mirror… a tailgater was behind me and he was so close that he seems to be running on my rear bumper! Whew! He was running so close and I only felt very tense at time because I can sense his aggressiveness!

But I stayed calm and maintained my presence of mind. Man! What is he thinking? Fortunately, everything went fine when I decided to let him pass by me. It was safest thing to do. Be humble at all times!

So where did I get the knowledge on how to deal with tailgaters? Simple… I researched about this stuff 2 years ago - the time when I got my first car. It’s important to learn and be aware of the rules of the road. Dealing with this kind situation can be very dangerous! Stay courteous and don’t get easily intimidated. Here are some tips from WikiHow.com on how to handle tailgaters. These are the stuff that helped me deal with so many aggressive punks on the street. You might need it as well!

Pull over and allow the vehicle behind you to pass, if it is safe to do so. If the car behind you is catching up, there's a good chance the driver wants to go faster. If it's safe to do so, let him/her. On narrower roads, use turnouts to allow others to pass when it is safe to do so. In many places, it is required that slower traffic use turnouts. Elsewhere, it is simply polite.
On a winding road, do not speed up so drastically at passing lanes that others cannot pass. Many drivers go slowly and cautiously around curves and then get on a straightaway and feel that they have the space or visibility to dart ahead.
If you are comfortable driving a bit faster and it is safe, then try speeding up. It might be that you are driving too slowly.
Look in the rear mirror, and use your hand on the mirror, as if you were waving back and forth, to signal him to get off your bumper.
Tap your brakes lightly a few times, so that he/she sees your brake lights, but not so hard that you actually slow down.

Car Safety Measures

2007-08-24T17:11:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, a friend was driving home after visiting his parents. At about 2:45 in the morning, his Mazda Miata suddenly swerved sharply to the left. He turned the steering wheel hard to the right and crossed onto the other side as an oncoming motorcyclist crashed into the car. The motorcyclist was killed instantly. My friend, luckily, was uninjured, while the car was a total wreck. His left tire had burst. It had no tread and was so worn that its reinforcements had been exposed.

There are so many accidents out on the streets and there are some which are much worse than that which I have told you about. But no matter what kind of tragedy it is, such things are caused by a poorly maintained vehicle. To minimize such incidents, we should have routine consideration on commonly neglected areas of car maintenance. Every single part of a vehicle should be regularly checked and taken cared of. These are some of the usual features involved:

Tires
Pressure. It is a must that you have your tire pressure checked monthly. As pressure gauges at service stations can be inaccurate, you can invest in your own gauge. If the vehicle hasn’t been driven in a few hours, check your tires. Don’t go by the pressure stamped on the tire, which is its maximum. Look for the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation inside your car or in the manual.

Alignment. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for having the alignment, which is commonly annual. Wheels that are out of alignment may result in excessive and irregular treaded wear, which can lead to lack of control, blowouts, and shortened life span of the tires. See your mechanic if you notice that your can tends to pull on one side.

Tread. Although some countries require a two millimeters tread depth, experts say that two millimeters is a safer minimum.

Brakes
Recently, brakes have come a long way. Antilock braking systems (ABS) are designed to prevent wheels from locking so that it still allows steering. These are showing up more and more as standard equipment.

If you have just recently purchased your vehicle, see if it is equipped with “smart brakes”. These are systems that can sense if you are stepping hard enough on the pedal and then compensate. Some allows each wheel’s braking system to adapt to road and weather conditions.

Whatever kind of brakes you have, get them inspected every six months or as outlined in the manual.

Seat Belts and Air Bags
Make sure that passengers are seated properly when there are air bags. Some air bags may cause more injury than the crash itself if passengers are not seated correctly, even if there are “smart air bags” offered these days. Keep your distance from the module. Most injuries or death were reported to be those too close to the module.

Consider having your children aged 13 years old and below stay at the back seat.

Air bags are to be used together with seat belts and are not substitutes. Make sure you are always buckled up and that the belts extend and retract smoothly. Check for rips and tears. If there is, have them replaces. Secure shoulder belts laying flat across your chest and collarbone.

Recalls
Check for the history of your secondhand car and make sure to register your name as the owner with the manufacturer so that it can be checked on recalls due to manufacturing defects.

These things seemed to be basic. However, they play a great role in assuring efficient safety.

Legendary Mercedes-Benz 'Silver Arrow' At SeeRed 2007

2007-08-21T16:16:00.000-07:00

To commemorate the 70th anniversary of The Donington Grand Prix, a Mercedes-Benz W125 racing car dubbed ‘Silver Arrow’ will be rebord to celebrate its only spirited appearance in factory hands on British ground.

Event Director Julian Ghosh has this to say: "Even by today’s standards, the performance of the famous German Grand Prix teams back in 1937 must have been staggering. How fortunate we are to be able to relive some of this in 2007 with one of those actual Silver Arrows.”

"Every year SeeRed produces an attraction with something for everyone but I'm certain that enthusiasts will find the sight and sound of the Mercedes-Benz W125 extra special,” said Vintage Sports-Car Club President Martin Grant Peterkin.

The W125, flaunting some Mercedes lights, is also equipped with its 5.6 liter supercharged 8 cylinder engine that is capable of generating some 640 bhp. The Silver Arrow will be in action on the Donington Park track on both days of The VSCC SeeRed 2007 event and will balance the weekend’s momentous racing programme that varies from Edwardian Racers to Group C Endurance Cars.

The Silver Arrow was a Grand Prix racing car used during 1937 season. The race car reached race speeds of well over 300 km/h. Additionally, in land speed record runs, a W125 Rekordwagen was clocked at 634 km/h over a mile and a kilometer. In 1938, the engine capacity of supercharged Grand Prix cars was limited to 3000cc eventually. The W125 was replaced by the Mercedes-Benz W154.

For about 30 years, the W125 was considered the most powerful race car ever until large capacity American-built V8 engines in CanAm sportcars reached similar power in the mid 1960s. In Formula 1 racing itself, the figure was not exceeded until the early 1980s, with the coming of turbo-charged engines.

The VSCC SeeRed 2007 festival continues to focus on attracting a fresh audience to it's broad church of activities and to historic motor sport in general. As vintage racing becomes ever popular events such as the Edwardian race and the Williams Monaco Trophy will be run alongside other popular historic fayre such as Group C, Formula Junior and the Historic Grand Prix Car Association (HGPCA).

Classic Driver has this salient information about the event:

What: VSCC SeeRed 2007
When: 15 - 16 September
Where: Donington Park, Leicestershire, UK

TICKET PRICES AND DETAILS

Tickets for Saturday 15 September

Prices for VSCC Members/Invited Car Clubs
In Advance by Web/Post/phone £12
On the day £20

Prices for General Public
In Advance by Web/Post/phone £15
On the day £20

Tickets For Sunday 16 September

Prices for VSCC Members/Registered Car Clubs
In Advance by Web/Post/phone £15
On the day £25

Prices for General Public
In Advance by Web/Post/phone £20
On the day £25

WEEKEND TICKET(2 Day Ticket Sat/Sun)

Only available to VSCC Members/Registered Car Clubs
In Advance by Web/Post/Phone £25

Contact:

Tel: +44 1608 644 777
Fax: +44 1608 644 888
Email: info@see-red.uk.com

Website: http://www.see-red.uk.com/

$10,000 Street-Racing Fine Imposed in Ontario

2007-08-16T17:55:00.000-07:00

Canada has been provided with supreme quality auto parts such as shocks Canada. Such products have been made for their vehicles so much so that these would be well equipped with parts that offer an efficient performance and boosts the quality of the vehicle. To maintain an organized community, they have implemented valuable street rules. It is to impose control over drivers who are taking advantage of their vehicles’ high-speed capacity.

Recently, in Ontario, new regulation is to be set fourth, as announced by Premier Dalton McGuinty. They shall be imposing a $10,000 fine for street racing. Driving 50 kilometers per hour and above will be considered to be classified in the category. This regulation gives the police officers the authority to issue a seven-day license suspension and even impound the vehicle for a week. If proven guilty, a fine ranging from $2,000 up to $10,000 shall be imposed. It will take effect starting on the 30th day of September.

As based from canada.com, McGuinty said, “That means they'll face the extreme stiff penalty we apply to street racers. In short, you're looking at major cost and major inconvenience.” That is for knowing that the regulation is the highest street-racing fine within Canada. And, it is a part of their dedication in their “Safer Roads for a Safer Ontario Act”.

Ontario Provincial Police Commissioner Julian Fantino stated, “The addition of these new officers will help us make Ontario's highways safer by enabling us to clear crash scenes more quickly while safeguarding both officers and the public. By adding aerial traffic support we will be able to target aggressive drivers and street racers.” It is in response to the adding of three constables to OPP traffic management teams in the province. Another good thing is that Queen’s Park will be providing the OPP $2 million for aircraft, which will be used in catching extreme speeders.

More of this issue is found in the site I have mentioned at the top.

Having this regulation implemented makes drivers more cautious in adhering to the speed limit.

Volkswagen’s Convertible Banquet

2007-08-14T08:18:00.000-07:00

Volkswagen’s convertible banquet is one of the luscious in the auto industry. As a fact, whatever your convertible taste is, the automaker could serve you a satisfying slice of auto delicacy. The banquet is a sort of smorgasbord where you can taste whatever you please. For a moment you can forget about that Chevrolet pickup flywheel you are fixing and drift into the colorful world of convertibles…

According to reports, the biggest lineup of convertibles worldwide is offered by the Volkswagen Corporation. From Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini and Volkswagen brands - the most succulent convertible meal could be had. Most of them are being driven around the Starnberger See and in the Hochtaunus region, said the recent study by the German Federal Vehicle Registration Authority.

Automotoportal has provided a list of VW convertibles:

New Beetle convertible, Volkswagen
Entry into the club of convertible drivers is made easy by the New Beetle Cabriolet from Volkswagen. Its cult design magically attracts glances. Its visual image is reminiscent of its great grandfather - the Beetle convertible.

Eos, Volkswagen
The Eos from Volkswagen also assumes a special position. Its brilliantly constructed, five-section CSC roof consists of about 480 parts and converts the car from a coupé to a convertible in 25 seconds. A majority of the roof consists of tinted safety glass. The advantage: A friendly interior atmosphere and a “pleasant mood.”

TT Roadster, Audi
Pure and straightforward is Audi’s design icon, the TT Roadster. In its second generation, this timeless design code of the legendary predecessor has been further honed. When it comes to the convertible top, Audi is remaining true to the roadster philosophy in this new model too and has given the TT a soft top.

A4 Cabriolet, Audi
On this four-seat and very spacious A4 Cabriolet, the convertible’s fabric top that is almost aristocratic in elegance deserves a lot of attention. Even in the basic version it is extremely high-end, and what is known as an “acoustic top” is offered as an option.

Murciélago LP 640 Roadster, Lamborghini
This is the most powerful roadster in the world. The name refers to Murciélago – the German bat. The name alone can give goose bumps and a hint at what it is all about: 640 PS!

Gallardo Spyder, Lamborghini
Positioned one performance notch below the LP640, yet still far beyond the rest of the sports car world, is the Gallardo Spyder - the fighting bull. This two-seater has a purist style and enraptures all of the senses.

Continental GTC, Bentley
Offered simultaneously by the Bentley company are two of the most luxurious convertibles sold in the world, both of them brand new. The Bentley Continental GTC - as the name suggests - plays the role of the open grand touring car.

Azure, Bentley
The owner of a Bentley Azure can expect the finest of club atmospheres. Among the cars of this world, the four-seat convertible is one of the most grand and beautiful. Its tradition-rich design makes it - like the Continental GTC - untouchable, with intrinsic value for all times.

Boost your Car’s Horsepower

2007-08-09T17:13:00.000-07:00

For a while, I’m quite getting envious with the recent models - being attractive, sporty, elegant, luxurious and, most of all, powerful with premium performance. I don’t have $100,000 to afford such a marvelous and compelling vehicle.

So, what can I do?

I have known from ehow.com that there are ways to improve a vehicle’s torque and horsepower. You just got to have enough money to make it all happen.

The very first thing you have to think about is how much you are willing to spend for this improvement. For those who have infinite cash on their hands, all they have to think is their goal and just how much horsepower they want their vehicle to gain.

These are the following ways to help you gain more horsepower:

Add a new intake. Between the two types of cold air intake (a short ram intake and a complete cold air intake), the complete intake would be a better choice, being able draw cooler air away from the engine.
Purchase a good aftermarket exhaust with larger diameter than your stock with strait through designs and with less bends. A high flow catalytic converter would also help increase the hp.
Invest on an Engine Control Unit (ECU) which is known to be the brain of your vehicle. An aftermarket ECU modifies fuel and timing curves, improving the engine’s efficiency for greater power.
Buy a higher octain gas to make your engine run more effectively.
Look into Forced Induction. Both the two major types (turbochargers and superchargers) offer gains. For higher rpms, a turbocharger is advisable. On the other hand, a supercharger is best for lower rpms.
With a forced induction, you will need fuel system modifications, through bigger fuel injectors and fuel rails with a return line.

These ways have been proven effective. Because I don’t have much budget for this, I’ve selected a few from the list, namely the aftermarket cold air intake and exhaust. And, I could vouch for the efficiency of both. Well, it would have been better if I have been able to get them all. Maybe, the rest would be in the next time I’ll be having extra cash.

It’s Loaded!

2007-08-06T19:19:00.000-07:00

That’s what I think you’d say when you see the list of features of the new Chrysler Town & Country. After all, with the company in decline, you’d think that they’d cut down on these technologically-advanced features on their autos. But that’s not the case - in fact, I think that the new features on the Town & Country will give the company’s sluggish sales a boost.

So let’s take a peek and see what the new Town & Country has to offer. But first let’s take a look at what the old T&C has to offer. According to Yahoo! Autos, here are the entertainment features of the 2007 Chrysler Town & Country:

In-Glass Radio Antenna
AM/FM Radio With Infinity(R) Speaker System and 6 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; Sirius(R) Satellite Radio (1-Year Subscription Included)
Equalizer
DVD Player Located In Front Row
DVD and GPS Navigation Aid

And now, let us take a look at what the new T&C brings to the table. First off is the dual DVD system. What’s so good about this? It can play different media at the same time. Neat, huh? Here’s what you can do with this cool feature: Passengers on the second row of seats can play games while those in the third row can watch a movie. Talk about keeping everybody happy.

Of course, with your children along for a roadtrip, you would never hear that annoying “Are we there yet?” question.

Another plus for the new T&C is that it comes with SIRIUS Backset TV. This means that the occupants of the two row of seats can both watch different movies at the same time. A satellite radio is also part of the package for the new T&C. With wireless headphones, occupants will have a convenient way of enjoying music without having to deal with tangled wires.

With these kind of features I think that many car buyers will be lining up to get one, even if they have only replaced their Mazda’s air filter or even installed a new car audio system on a Hyundai.

Larry Lyons, Vice President - Chrysler Group Front-wheel-drive Product Team, summed up the importance of these features on a vehicle such as the Town & Country saying: “Minivans have evolved to be a family room on wheels, and our new minivans offer all the technology customers have in their family rooms at home. Family members can watch a movie, play a video game, listen to an iPod or MP3 player through the sound system, watch TV or listen to the radio or a CD. The 2008 Chrysler and Dodge minivans pop with the hottest technology for the whole family.”

For prices of the new Town and Country, you can visit Chrysler’s site here.

The Official Audi A7 Sketches Are Out!

2007-08-01T01:01:00.000-07:00

If your imagination can’t take you farther, let the Car Online show you its creative ways on how they conceptualized things beyond one’s imagination!

During the past few days, design sketches of the Audi A1 and R8 the Spider leaked into the public eyes. And today, another masterpiece was exposed that made everyone crave for it to the bones, well, uh… steel. Car Online has released the official design sketch of the upcoming Audi A7! Apparently, it was exclusively given to them by Audi Execs.

Lately, car designers are obsessed with the Mercedes CLS-4 door coupe design and now, the hottest piece of radical art is now spotlighted in Audi models, especially the A7! The A7 is scheduled to debut early next but it’s not expected to have its market debut until 2009 comes. Details of the Audi A7 include a 3.0 V6 and a 4.2 V8 petrol and diesel engines.

Audi's new MLP (Modular Long Platform) will be used by the A7 - the inner structure which was first spotted in the A5. It will be used in the next generation A4, A6, and A8 in addition to the all new Q5 SAV as well. According to Car Online, the possible price of the A7 will approximately reach up to £35,000-£50,000 (around 50,000 – 75,000 EUR) with the possibility of also manufacturing a soft-stop version.

Emotions are high rising and excitement is in the air! Everything is happening. Good things are happening. And so is Audi’s A7! Wow, what can I say? It’s a great masterpiece that everyone should all wait for soon!

2010 Volkswagen Beetle on Full Modern Touch

2007-07-31T23:52:00.000-07:00

Have you guys seen the redesigned 2010 Volkswagen Beetle? As conceptualized, it has fully transformed into a more modern and aggressive vehicle, moving away from the girlie style of the classic Beetle and getting away from the original Beetle-look. It is expected to have several variants. The hatchback will remain primarily emphasized. Then, a soft-top convertible will shortly follow, which I would actually be looking forward to since a convertible is an attractive version. There would also be a micro-van, a wagon-based crossover and even a pickup variant. It explains why they no longer needed to pursue the Scirocco, a near similar vehicle in terms of design and style.

As far as I’ve read, the designing will take place in California, while the engineering will be in Germany. They are planning to give it a touch of sporty style, though the cutesy bug-eye look will be retained. It has been made roomier and interiorly quite so spacey as it is aiming for a more convenient interior concept.

With these concepts and with having several variants for the Beetle, it simply shows that Volkswagen is making a way to capture the market of quite a variety of enthusiasts who are looking for cute, sporty and luxurious vehicles. That would be a good strategy, might really be efficient, though it will still remain to be unproven until it will be finally launched in 2010.

They are somewhat making the same move with the BMW in attempting to give their Mini a sub-brand, though they might possibly dissolve the patronized classic Beetle.

The engine specifications have not yet been decided. Knowing that they are gradually preparing for it, they should be equipping it with sophisticated VW parts, including a VW wheel bearing, to assure excellent handling. More than the style, the safety and convenience are much more important. I wouldn’t even risk my life driving a flaunty vehicle then end up regretful of the performance.

The drawings are looking good, but it would be much better with real structures, technology-enhanced and aggressively engineered. We’d still be waiting for the year 2010.

An Electric Car Built In Silicon Valley?

2007-07-26T01:11:00.000-07:00

I had a hard time purchasing Subaru brakes online, so I lost my patience in the long run and decided to read some auto news instead. I found an article from motortrend.com about a company who built an electric car. It sounded good so why not dig in for some interesting info, right?

So what’s the company’s name? Actually, they were called a “a handful of wealthy Silicon Valley cyber-geeks”! Who are these people from Silicon Valley? Are they serious enough to outperform the biggest auto manufacturers in the industry? Why not, right?

The company we’re talking about here is Tesla Motors of Silicon Valley. I know some of you have seen the products of this new infant of an auto company. Tesla Motors is known for its extraordinaire character ever since it officially entered the big world of automotives! The company was founded by Elon Musk who has made billions of fortune from the Internet payments system called PayPal while Tesla CEO Martin Eberhard made smaller bucks from e-publishing and computers. These two determined men had one dream they both believed they can fulfill - a task that for so many years, the rest of the world’s auto makers failed to accomplish!

And what’s that? To build an electric car that consumers would want to buy! That sounds cool, but I guess pretty complicated… Anyway, electric cars have been around from the time of the birth of the auto industry - electric taxis were on the streets of New York City back in 1897! And while scheme theorists are eagerly suggesting large auto and big oil connived to eliminate the electric car, reality reveals that consumers basically appear to wish for better flexibility, variety, and performance of internal-combustion-powered cars.

Lotus Elise-based Roadster which is worth $92,000 was Tesla’s first car that has brought the company immense publicity among the consumers.

"The Roadster will always be a niche business," he says. "But starting with the Roadster was important because we had to recoup the cost of the R&D on the drivetrain on a high-priced car. We also wanted to make a strong brand statement-before the Roadster, electric cars were goofy looking and not fun to drive," Tesla’s Vice President of marketing, Darryl Siry, explained.

The White Star is Tesla’s biggest project so far. It will be a five passenger, four-door electric sedan. It was asserted by Siry that the White Star will be fast and beautiful. An engineering prototype will be on the streets by late spring 2008.

Oh yeah! So far, so good! We can’t wait until this vehicle arrives in showrooms soon! I guess Tesla Motors can be considered as a big company after all!

Gaywheels.com released its Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles

2007-07-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

Gay people are very appreciative in terms of fashion, and style and they are also very meticulous with regards to their way of living. But I didn’t know that gay people are so into cars as well. Gaywheels.com released a list of its top ten most researched vehicles on its official website on July 19, 2007. The website specifically targets people who belong to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender society or known as LGBT.

These cars are based from the traffic noted on the net from the second quarter on the year. The Toyota Yaris remained to be on top of the list and other cars also remained. Only Nissan’s Infinite FX is the new car to enter the bunch.

Joe LaMuraglia, the founder of gaywheels.com, said, "After being added to the gay-friendly list late last year, Nissan's overall ranking as a brand moved up steadily from just outside of the Top 25 to inside the Top 10, while its Infiniti luxury brand saw a similarly dramatic rise. As the first model from either brand on the Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles list, the appearance of the Infiniti FX clearly shows the advantage of offering equal benefits to all employees when reaching gay consumers."

The Toyota Yaris remained to be on the top from the first to the second quarter while on the second quarter, the Saab 9-3 gained the second position. Completing the list of the top five most researched cars are the Mazda MX-5 Miata, Volkswagen Jetta and the Volkswagen Eos which are found on the third, fourth and fifth spots respectively.

Here are the cars included on the Top 10 Most-Researched Vehicles in gaywheels.com:

1. Toyota Yaris
2. Saab 9-3
3. Mazda MX-5 Miata
4. Volkswagen Jetta
5. Volkswagen Eos
6. Dodge Caliber
7. Toyota Camry
8. Audi A3
9. Volkswagen Rabbit
10. Infiniti FX

Other cars in the top ten were the Dodge Caliber on the sixth spot and the Toyota Camry on the seventh. Cars like the Audi A3 and the Volkswagen Rabbit remained to be included in the top ten while the newest among the bunch conquers the number ten notch, the Infiniti FX.

All these cars are based on the website's statistics starting from April 1 to June 30, 2007. Gaywheels.com is publishing its top ten most researched vehicles on their official website every three months. If you wish to visit their site just click this link.

Land Rover Surfs Up

2007-07-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Surfing… one of the coolest extreme sports in the planet! Oh how I love this sport! Too bad I can’t surf like the pros. Anyway, enough of day dreaming, one of the popular events for surfing is the Rip Curl Boardmasters. This year, the biggest European surfing challenge will be sponsored by Land Rover. The 2007 Rip Curl Boardmasters will be take place on August 6-12 in Newquay. The Land Rover will serve as the official vehicle of the event. Fleets of Freelander 2s and Range Rover Sports will be provided by Land Rover with perfect performance auto parts!

James Cracknell, a Double Olympic gold medalist rower, a certified surfing aficionado and the owner of a Discovery 3 will represent Land Rover’s association along with Rip Curl Boardmasters 2007. He will also host a Festival wherein the celebration of Land Rover competition winners will be proclaimed with colorful presentations!

"We are delighted to be involved with the Rip Curl Boardmasters Festival this year and to be able to support its smooth running with a fleet of Freelander 2s," Andy Griffiths, Land Rover's UK marketing director, commented. "The Freelander 2 is the ultimate leisure 4x4 and the perfect vehicle for anyone with a passion for adventure. And outdoor entertainment doesn't come more adventurous than the Rip Curl Boardmasters 2007."

This popular event in Europe had surfed up for over 26 years now. People from Newquay eagerly participate in this once a year gathering attracting over 220,000 domestic and foreign tourists every year.

One Million For A Great Partnership!

2007-07-20T19:51:00.000-07:00

I was quite stressed out when I got home from work yesterday. But my tiredness was relieved when I came upon reading some great news about the auto industry. You see, everywhere you go there are tons of bad news. And it’s seldom for us to see some good stuff in today's happenings. So I took the opportunity to soothe myself with the right stuff on my laptop!

The good news is: the successful AutoAlliance Thailand between Mazda Motor Company and Ford Motor Company resulted to another milestone! The joint venture which started back in 1998 has reached a production of one million units! In a special event at the world-class Rayong facility, the senior executives from AAT, Ford and Mazda joined AAT staff, where a Mazda BT-50 and a Ford Ranger representatively shared the 'one millionth unit' title. Now that’s good news!

Here are some of the quotes from the article which I got from autochannel.com.

"This milestone is really the achievement of all partners working together to create a world-class enterprise - including Mazda, Ford, the Thai government, and of course our Thai management and staff, who are responsible for our day-to-day operations. We're proud that AAT has played such a key role in driving the one-ton pickup's success as 'product champion' of Thailand's automotive industry," said Masamichi Kogai, the president of AutoAlliance Thailand.

Robert J. Graziano, Representative Director and Executive Vice President, shares, "AutoAlliance Thailand is one of our most visible global success stories, and it continues to illustrate the synergies and strengths of the Mazda-Ford partnership." Graziano is the executive vice president of the Mazda Motor Corporation. AAT will remain the core of our business strategy in the ASEAN region, and a reflection of our commitment to the continued growth of Thailand's auto industry.

"Also, AAT pickup trucks have won numerous awards globally, among them Car of the Year awards in Thailand, Australia, New Zealand and Russia. These awards bear testimony to the outstanding quality that our employees at AAT can deliver."

"Ford and Mazda have one of the most successful partnerships in the automotive industry, and clearly AAT has and will continue to be a win-win opportunity for both organizations. Our collaboration and ongoing commitment to growth in Thailand and the ASEAN region has never been stronger," asserted John Parker, group vice president, Ford Asia Pacific & Africa.

A Little Fact about Hybrids' Popularity

2007-07-18T19:35:00.000-07:00

Hybrid cars is the latest trend these days. You can see a lot of car makers are manufacturing and creating hybrid cars. Before, only Japanese car makers are the only makers of hybrid cars but now, domestic car makers like General Motors and the Ford Motor Company are doing such a product as well. The popularity of hybrid cars is never deniable but the latest news coming from J.D. Power and Associates somehow changed the perception of some car buyers. So, leave your VW timing belt and read this blog.

The J.D. Power and Associates' Alternative Powertrain Study found out that hybrid cars today are becoming slightly unpopular. These cars are noted to be a little burden to our pockets which is why buyers are considering diesel engine cars compared to it. J.D. Powers also found out that car buyers also wanted to consider using a cleaner diesel gas.

On the overall rating, only 7% among the buyers are considering buying a hybrid car but among the 16-25 age groups, the rate goes down by 13%. This only means that the people who are entering the car buying market prefer buying a non-hybrid car.

According to the study, the reason would have been that the buyers are looking for more than $2,396 extra for a hybrid compared to the conventional cars but also gets the 18.5 mpg more. And perhaps shoppers have found that hybrid car models cannot provide the cost/benefit ratio yet, which is why they still stay to choose conventional cars as the vehicle to own. It's not actually different from the diesel category with the buyers who are willing to pay $1,491 extra and so they are also expecting a better vehicle with additional 15 mpg.

But diesel engines could be a little more interesting to these car buyers. The hybrid cars can come down off the pedestal while more car buyers are looking after cleaner and more fuel efficient diesel cars.

11 Lucky Awardees To Join Nissan-NPO Learning Scholarship Program

2007-07-13T19:58:00.000-07:00

Eleven lucky individuals were awarded scholarships in the 2007 Nissan Awards by the Nissan Motor Co. last July 11, 2007 at Nissan’s Ginza headquarters. The commemoration ceremonies were held to award and present the new set of scholarship recipients to join the Nissan-NPO Learning Scholarship Program. Nissan’s ground-breaking program plans to nurture and develop talented individuals with the desire and passion to make something great to help the society. Through this remarkable program, students are given scholarships who seek for work and employement in a non-profit organization (NPO) after they have completed the requirements on their internship. The Nissan-NPO Learning Scholarship Program was first introduced in 1998. The program was supported by non-profit organizations in partnership with the Nissan Motor Co.

The program received applications from an overall count of thirty-four students from 23 universities this year. The eleven awardees were selected following interview screenings. Starting this month, they will commence their internship postings at nine separate NPOs that will tackle on the environmental protection, international cooperation, and social welfare.

Nissan Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors Itaru Koeda presented the graduation diplomas to last year's awardees after the ceremonies. Furthermore, three of the past recipients will come again to share their experiences as interns at the Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA), Kanagawa Information Center for Citizens' Activities, and at the Osaka Voluntary Action Center.

The outline of the 2007 scholarship program is as follows:

Outline of the 2007 Nissan-NPO Learning Scholarship Program
1. Supporting organizations Sponsor: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.
Partner: Japan NPO Center
2. Participants 11 students currently enrolled in a university or a graduate school
3. Host organizations 9 NPOs
Children's Fund of Kanagawa, The Foundation for Child Well-being (National Children's Castle), Shapla Neer Citizens' Committee in Japan for Overseas Support, Shanti Volunteer Association (SVA), Japan NPO Center, Ecosystem Conservation Society-Japan, The Association of National Trusts in Japan, Kanagawa Information Center for Citizens' Activities (Alice Center), World Vision Japan
4. Application period April 25-May 31, 2007
5. Program duration July 2007-February 2008 (Duration may differ according to the particular NPO)
6. Further information Nissan-NPO Learning Scholarship Program website:
http://www.nissan-global.com/JP/CITIZENSHIP/NPO/index.html

The Rise of China’s First Infiniti Dealership

2007-07-10T22:46:00.000-07:00

This is more fascinating than the Great Wall of China or even more interesting than those Ford truck accessories or even the coolest Ford wheels. Listen to this…

Infiniti’s global growth has become more and more progressive as the company reaches out to new heights. Two days ago, another door has been opened for a new Infiniti dealership at the Shanghai Yongda Infiniti - the first Infiniti dealership in China. This is the first authorized dealer for the international luxury auto brand. The launching of the newest Infiniti dealership in China demonstrates the China Market’s main role for the worldwide growth of Infiniti.

Infiniti came out strong during its debut as one of the newest and rising luxury brands which became one of the top-sellers in North America. New car buyers and customers have been impressed by Infiniti’s effervescent design, thrilling performance and extraordinary customer care idea. Now that Infiniti has arrived in China, the company’s campaign is all set to redefine the idea of luxury and introduce a new era in the nation’s luxury car market!

"The China business is crucial for Infiniti's global expansion and the smooth implementation of Nissan Value-Up," said Yasuaki Hashimoto, the Corporate Vice President of Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., who took part in the grand opening ceremony with Yukihisa Kayashima, the President of Nissan (China) Investment Co., Ltd, Mr. Cai Yingjie, Vice President of Yongda Group, and Mr. Xu Yue, General Manager of Shanghai Yongda Infiniti dealership. During the opening ceremony, the ritual of key delivery was also held for Infiniti's first car owner.

"Infiniti has been well received in the marketplace thanks to its vibrant design, exhilarating performance, modern luxury experience and premium quality, as well as its Total Ownership Experience customer care philosophy," said Yasuaki Hashimoto. "Infiniti's worldwide customers are innovative, ambitious and successful people. We are also expecting many of the same kind of customers in China. Cumulative Infiniti global sales have so far topped 1,100,000 units. Today, we are so excited to see that Infiniti has taken a major step forward in China. We hope that Infiniti can achieve great success in this market."

"All Infiniti dealerships will be built based on Infiniti Retail Environment Design Initiative (IREDI), Infiniti's unified global standard. We believe that our dealers will be able to bring the greatest satisfaction to customers through their commitment to the Total Ownership Experience philosophy - even exceeding the expectations of luxury customers," said Mr. Kayashima.

the Total Ownership Experience is one of the brand’s advanced customer care philosophy which is one of Infiniti’s main goal to achieve customer satisfaction. Talking about Infiniti’s performance and driving experience, independent comparison proves that Infiniti has an advantage over its competitors.

The Completely Retuned 2008 Ford Taurus X

2007-07-06T23:23:00.000-07:00

Just after the domestic automaker revealed the concept version of the 2008 Ford Taurus X on the Chicago Auto Show, we become so excited about how the new vehicle would turn out. And just as we expected, the Ford Motor Company gave the new auto the right amount of tune-ups and just enough revamps to complete its totally refreshed look. Now, the new Taurus X is making big waves on dealerships and showrooms and the auto makers have their fingers crossed hoping that the new updated version of the Taurus would definitely outstand the under accomplishments of its predecessors.

If you remember, the Taurus came out as the Freestyle earlier in its life. It was accompanied by the Ford Five Hundred sedan when the domestic auto maker decided to give it its new name. Now, after the rebadge, retunes and revamps, the well known Freestyle is now recognized as the Taurus X. Before, it was too unacceptable that the Freestyle had to wear a new name because it never reached the right amount of fame. But Ford, this time is hoping that under the name Taurus X, it would sell. Almost all parts of the previous Freestyle has been reworked and upgraded. Say, the new front face which is now looking more masculine because of the look it got from its Ford brother - the Edge. Of course, a new heart is implanted as well (perhaps this is what we are all hoping for). The new Taurus X is sporting a powerful V6 3.5L engine part under its hood. Not only that, since it got it looks closer to the midsize crossover, it also got a six-speed automatic transmission.

Horses, horses, horses are just what a new car craves to have. So Ford added a few more horses to the new X by running on a 263 horsepower delivering 249 pound-feet of torque. Usually, the V6 engine is only capable of delivering 203 horsepower running on a 207 pound feet of torque. But Ford promises 44% more quicker acceleration which is accounted through its new powertrain combo.

Safety? Well, take it from me. The new car is rated with “five stars” on its new mounted safety car parts. Get that electronic stability and traction control as well as side curtain airbags in and let’s see how safe the new car gets. All these come as standard factory installed safety parts.
Prices range from $27,365 on its base front-wheel-drive Taurus X SEL while the top-of-the-line Taurus X Limited AWD sells with a $32,500 price tag.

Traffic at NADAguides.com Grows This Year

2007-07-04T01:10:00.000-07:00

One of the leaders on information and vehicle pricing websites revealed news about the 112% increase in traffic of their website. According to the NADAguides.com, there has been a huge increase in the visitors logging in on their websites this year as compared to last year’s frame. Meaning, the number of car enthusiasts are growing in numbers as well. The car company website is composed of three famous segments - the Pick-up Trucks, Sedans and SUVs.

These are the list of the most commonly searched cars on each category:

Most Popularly Researched Sedan car:

2007 Toyota Camry
2007 Nissan Altima
2007 Toyota Prius

Most Popularly Researched Truck vehicle:

2007 Toyota Tacoma
2007 Ford F-150
2007 Toyota Tundra

Most Popularly Researched SUV car:

2007 Honda CR-V
2007 Toyota RAV4
2007 Saturn VUE

These information were all taken from the website. They were identified through pricing, performance and the numbers of visitors browsing each page on the NADAguides.com.

The president and Chief Executive Officer of NADAguides.com, Don Christy Jr., said, "For 74 years, N.A.D.A. has been widely known for its Used Car pricing information. Our reports prove that car buyers embrace NADAguides.com as a New Car information source too. Not only is the New Car area of our website increasing in popularity, it has seen the largest percentage of growth during the first six months of this year."

Another section on the website is called the Side-by-Side New Car Comparison Tool and it grew another 58% in traffic after six months compared to last year’s ratings. With this great achievement, the website was now the most popular and fastest growing new car research website on the net. There are also several comparisons on the particular website. And to give more information, they released this particular list of the cost common cars being compared to other models.

Here, check this out guys. These are the top vehicles of the Sedan, Pick-up Truck and SUV categories.

Most Commonly Compared Sedans

The 2007 Toyota Camry was most commonly compared to the:

07 Nissan Altima
07 Toyota Avalon
07 Hyundai Sonata

The 2007 Nissan Altima was most commonly compared to the:

07 Toyota Camry
07 Honda Accord
07 Honda Civic

The 2007 Toyota Prius was commonly compared to the:

07 Honda Civic Hybrid
07 Lexus ES350
07 Toyota Camry Hybrid

Most Commonly Compared Pick-up Trucks

The 2007 Toyota Tacoma was most commonly compared to the:

07 Honda Ridgeline
07 Toyota Tacoma (different trim levels)
07 Ford F-150

The 2007 Ford F-150 was most commonly compared to the:

07 Toyota Tacoma
07 Honda Ridgeline
07 Chevy Silverado

The 2007 Toyota Tundra was most commonly compared to the:

07 Ford F-150
07 Nissan Titan
07 Toyota Tundra

Most Commonly Compared SUVs

The 2007 Honda CR-V was most commonly compared to the:

07 Toyota RAV4
07 Honda CR-V (different trim levels)
07 Lexus RX350

The 2007 Toyota RAV4 was most commonly compared to the:

07 Honda CR-V
07 Lexus RX350
Toyota RAV4 (different trim levels)

The 2007 Saturn VUE was most commonly compared to the:

07 Honda Civic Hybrid
07 Toyota Prius
07 Toyota Camry

Christy added, "Even though Used Car traffic to NADAguides.com was very strong from January to June of this year, the total number of Used Car visitors did not experience the same growth as New Car visitors. It's obvious car buyers are increasingly turning to NADAguides.com for New Car pricing and specification information."

Looks like Ford only got one car model on the list. But the domestic car maker still makes Ford Ranger parts and Ford spoilers as well as the Ford rims. So if ever one among your car parts have already worn out, order these car parts on the net.

One of Ford’s Demonstration Ethanol-Fueled Hybrids Given to Southwest Gas

2007-06-29T00:40:00.001-07:00

Demonstration fleets of ethanol-powered hybrids the from Ford Motor Company is all set to show its “thing” in the streets of Las Vegas. Keys to an E85 Escape Hybrid were handed down to Southwest gas by Ford’s Director of Commercial Trucks, Joe Castelli. The Department of Energy, the Governor’s Ethanol Coalition (GEC), and the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) were the first one to receive the first three E85 Escape Hybrids. There will be a total of 20 Ford ethanol-powered Escapes that will be distributed to selected fleet customers from six different states.

"This is a win-win for both Ford and Southwest Gas because the use of the E85 Escape Hybrid will enable Southwest Gas to receive credits toward EPACT mandates and increase their flexibility in vehicle fleet usage, while Ford will gain important technical knowledge as it's being driven." said Gerald Koss, the Fleet Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company.

"Southwest Gas is pleased to work with Ford to promote the use of hybrid vehicles and implement measures that improve the quality of our environment," said Randy Jackson, the Purchasing Manager, Southwest Gas Corporation.

This hybrid E85 Escape only produces 25 percent lesser greenhouse gas emissions compared to a gasoline-powered vehicle. It is capable of running absolutely with renewable fuel which would help the country’s dependence on imported oil. More than 3.6 billion gallons of gasoline could be displaced in a year if more than six million flexible fuel vehicles in the country are being powered by E85. Ford aims to produce half of its vehicle productions competent of running on substitute fuels.

Grab the “Best Deals for June”

2007-06-26T23:06:00.000-07:00

All the right stuff you need to have this month is out! Are you a confused new car buyer? The best answer for you is here and all you have to do is choose from Intellichoice.com’s list of the “Best Deals for June”! The list displays persistent contenders for cars, trucks and SUVs such as Toyota and Honda vehicles. This is the best way to make your summer escapades a blast!

The “Best Deals of the Month” recognizes the latest cars, trucks and SUVs with the best ownership cost values. There are 33 respective categories that best identifies the best vehicles this month.

“Combined with its Lexus brand, Toyota continues to hold down about one-third of our overall list, with 11 total winners. However, American truck makers appear to be fending off the Toyota Tundra, at least from an overall cost-of-ownership perspective.” said James Bell, the publisher of IntelliChoice.com.

“Best Deals of June” as categorized by type and size:

Subcompact Car: MINI Cooper
Compact Car over 16000: Honda Civic Hybrid
Compact Car under 16000: Honda Civic Sedan
Midsize Car over 21000: Toyota Prius
Midsize Car under 21000: Toyota Prius
Convertible: MINI Cooper Convertible
Luxury Convertible: Audi A4 Convertible
Near Luxury Car: Lexus IS
Luxury Car: Lexus ES
Large Car: Toyota Avalon
Base Sport Car: Honda Civic Si Coupe
Sport Car: Chevrolet Corvette
Sport Sedan/Wagon over 38000: Lexus GS
Sport Sedan/Wagon under 38000: Infiniti G35 Sport Sedan
Compact Utility/Crossover: Ford Escape Hybrid
Midsize Crossover: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
Luxury Crossover: Lexus RX 400h
Small Wagon: Toyota Matrix
Midsize/Large Wagon: Subaru Outback Wagon
Sport Utility Vehicle (SUV): GMC Yukon
Intermediate Utility: Hummer H3
Luxury SUV: Lexus GX
Compact Pickup Truck 2WD Toyota: Tacoma Regular Cab 2WD
Compact Pickup Truck 4WD Toyota: Tacoma Regular Cab 4WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 2WD 1/2 Ton: GMC Sierra 1500 Extended Cab 2WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 2WD 3/4 Ton: Ford F250 Super Duty Super Cab 2WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 2WD One Ton: Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab 2WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 4WD 1/2 Ton: Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Regular Cab 4WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 4WD 3/4 Ton: GMC Sierra 2500 HD Crew Cab 4WD
Full-Size Pickup Truck 4WD One Ton: Dodge Ram 3500 Quad Cab 4WD
Minivan: Honda Odyssey Passenger Van
Full-Size Van: Chevrolet Express 1500 Passenger Van
Cargo Van: Dodge Grand Caravan Cargo Van

General Motors on Aggressive TV Ad Campaigns

2007-06-26T01:10:00.001-07:00

The most popular and effective advertisements are those seen on TV. But hey guys, is it justifiable if your TV ad campaign seems to be offensive?

Well then, if you don’t have the answer, let me give you samples of the latest TV ad from General Motors. These are the three TV commercials created and produced by General Motors that induced customers to have their vehicles - namely the Silverado, Saturn and the Buick Enclave - to be on their top list.

The automaker wanted to show that their brand is committed in setting up that they are still the leading automaker worldwide. At the same time they believe that through these three ads they will be able to revive what has been lost from their sales for the past months.

First Ad: The first ad is for the Buick Enclave as it takes the center stage with the theme ‘Drive Beautiful’. A sexy song was incorporated on it with the lyrics: “I look into your eyes, I listen to your heart, I feel your soul… change my breath away it drive me wild… so beautiful.”

But what captured one’s attention are the following tag lines on the ad, these are: “Quieter than a Lexus RX350, A better frontal crash test rating than a Volvo XC90, More spacious than a Mercedes R-class, and the finest luxury crossover ever.”

Now, do you think GM is offensive? It’s up to you!

Second Ad: The Saturn outlook used their five star rating awards for front and side car tests by the NHTSA in this ad. The model joins effectiveness and flexibility plus a major cargo capacity and safety features. The theme for this ad is ‘Rethink American’ as they go head to head with the rival on a side by side test drive.

Now what’s the offense? Here’s the tagline for that ad: To put a competitor’s car on your lot, you must be crazy!

Third Ad: The third ad is the Chevy Silverado truck as it attacks the Toyota Tundra. It features the Silverado’s exclusive automatic rear locks as it demonstrates its ability on that ad in a pit. The tagline for that ad is: “We notice Toyota likes to do demonstrations… So do we!”

I think it was not foul. Anyway, it depends on how Toyota will react to that ad.

Well, to see more of the dead-aim for the European and Asian rivals and to feel more of the fun, just log into www.autochannel.com and brace yourself for the latest TV ads.

For now, I will go on with my research on the Mercedes Benz thermostat, Mercedes Benz tie rod end, and Mercedes Benz steering damper.

I will just keep you updated for the results of these campaigns - well I anticipate for great sales I think, but I will be more interested to learn about the reactions of the American brand competitors. This calls for REVENGE. No, just kidding!

New Technology Advances Will Drive Head-up Displays to $400 Million by 2012

2007-06-22T01:23:00.001-07:00

Television, internet, magazines, newspaper and all other forms of media can be quite powerful. For example, these can be bombarded with innovations and developments in the auto industry as well as ads on car parts like the Mercedes Benz brake booster and the Mercedes Benz brake caliper. Such a situation has a great impact but in the end, it can prove to be quite confusing for drivers and consumers.

This is what is recently happening to motorists right now. Multiple features in cars which can be entertaining but not so distracting can be okay for some but if you bring in all other cars with such ads, it can be a total mess. And when it comes to functions, all those new features in cars can drag the driver’s concentration away from his main task - driving.

Due to that emerging problem, ABI Research created an innovative solution. For a short introduction, they are the ones who scrutinize the forces pushing growth and expansion in the market. Included here are the consumers’ demand for highly developed features and the latest technology.

They used to offer a market study and examination in four world regions. They also uphold global maneuvers by sustaining yearly research programs, intelligence services, and market reports in broadband and multimedia, RFID and M2M, wireless connectivity, mobile wireless, transportation, and emerging technologies.

Their solution for the said emerging problem is to display key information in the driver’s line of sight. That may reduce the need to look away from the road ahead. According to them, such head-up display solutions are accessible in increasing numbers, and it soon will embrace $400 million marketability five years from now.

Actually the first head-up displays came during 80’s but unfortunately they didn’t have that much of a spark to buyers because of inadequate functionality, lack of intelligibility and clarity, insufficient brightness, and less-than-stellar dependability.

David Alexander, a principal analyst at ABI Research, said that, “Solid state electronics and other technologies new to head-up displays have produced dramatic improvements. System developers can now deliver more clarity, more color, and brighter displays. Additional benefits include lower power consumption and less heat generation, which in turn will lead to greater reliability.”

Anyway, the new HUD options from BMW and Citroën are anticipated to create interest and curiosity in consumers. Such are also in the plans of other car makers like GM, Toyota, and Honda.

If they will keep on developing striking HUD solutions for their customers, solutions would not involve dashboards that are pretty functional but would not need be expensive. Also, Tier One suppliers like Delphi, Denso, Siemens VDO, and Nippon Seiki would capitalize on this market. ABI Research are taking also into consideration the emerging technologies from new vendors. If ever all these technologies passed on thorough automotive testing standards, it will be a great challenge for the bubbling industry.

The 2007 Hyundai Azera

2007-06-19T23:47:00.000-07:00

Can’t get enough of Hyundai updates? Here’s the Azera for you! I mean the 2007 Hyundai Azera model. Let’s get to know one of Hyundai’s quality cars that are making a sudden impact on the auto industry. Let’s get started!

The Azera was first unveiled as a 2006 model year and it became Hyundai’s bet against competitors such as the Toyota Avalon. Actually, it outstood the Avalon when it was down to quality. The vehicle then became a sudden strong seller and it has proven itself as one of the top cars today winning second place in its segment in the 2006 Initial Quality Study by J.D Power and Associates - a remarkable achievement as a rookie! It has also received the top crash test rating given by the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS).

The 2007 Azera provides convenience like never before! Luxurious appointments and space that can beat fierce and premium competitor brands is totally equipped in this big car. The 2007 Asera brings the vicious power as expected with the help of its 3.8-liter DOHC V6 engine! It produces 263 horsepower and 257 lb. ft. of torque.

Now let’s check on its extraordinary features that amazed the world since it has arrived in all showrooms! These are the standard features of the 2007 Hyundai Azera, thanks to Hyundai for providing this info!

10-speaker into 8-location Infinity audio system including subwoofer
4-channel/4-sensor ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) w/ EBD (Electronic Brake Distribution)
6-disc in-dash CD changer
Air conditioning, non-CFC w/dual automatic temperature control, rear ducts, air quality control system
AM/FM Stereo/cassette/6-CD changer/MP3
AM/FM Stereo/CD/MP3
Ash trays, front illuminated & dual rear
Assist Grips
Black interior (with contrasting gray stitching)
Bodyside reinforcements
Carpeted floor mats
Child seat tether anchors, 3 in parcel shelf
Childproof rear door locks
Cigarette lighter and/or secondary power outlets (2 front, 1 rear)
Clock, digital
Defoggers, electric rear window defroster w/timer
Deluxe carpeting
Deluxe center console w/dual-level covered storage
Driver and front passenger advanced airbags
Electronic Stability Control (ESC)
Energy-absorbing steering column
Front 3-point seat belts w/adjustable shoulder belt height
Front and rear passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags
Front crumple zones
Front dual active head restraints
Front seat belt pretensioners and buckle pretensioners
Hood buckling creases and safety stops
Impact-sensing auto door unlocking
Occupant Classification System (OCS)
Panic Brake Assist
Power assisted front vented disc/rear solid disc brakes
Power window lockout button
Rear 3-point seat belts
Rear ashtray and dual cup holders
Rear coat hooks
Rear crumple zones
Rear seat center armrest w/dual cup holders, retractable
Rear seat ISOFIX lower child seat anchors
Remote keyless entry system w/alarm
Roof-mounted side curtain airbags (front and outboard rear passengers)
Shift interlock system
Steering wheel audio controls with seek up/down feature
Traction Control System (TCS)

Norsk Hydro's First Hydrogen Refueling Station

2007-06-14T23:25:00.000-07:00

If gas-powered vehicles have their own gasoline station, then hydrogen-propelled vehicles have their own hydrogen refueling station too! It’s quite unbelievable, right? But believe it because yesterday, Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc. has just announced yesterday that they will partake at the grand opening of Norsk’s first ever hydrogen refueling station! Hydrogen hybrid Priuses from Quantum will be delivered as a way of their participation on this big event.

The first hydrogen refueling station will be situated just outside the premises of the company at Heroya, Porsgrunn, Norway. Last June 12, 2007, it was officially opened by the Steinulf Tungesvik, State Secretary of the Norwegian Ministry of Transport and Communications and Eivind Reiten, President and CEO of Norsk Hydro Company. The new and first ever hydrogen refueling station is actually a part of the “Hydrogen Highway” project which was planned by Oslo and Stavanger.

"We are excited to participate with Miljobil Grenland, Norsk Hydro, Statoil, and the Norwegian government in building the foundation for one of the most progressive public-private hydrogen partnerships in the world," said Alan P. Niedzwiecki, President and CEO of Quantum. "Quantum's hydrogen hybrid Priuses are generating increasing interest from around the world as clean, fuel efficient alternatives to petroleum fueled vehicles. Based on the enthusiastic reception we received at the grand opening of the Norsk Hydro hydrogen station, we believe that opportunities will continue to grow for Quantum's hydrogen hybrid Priuses throughout Europe and North America."

For those who are not familiar with Quantum Fuel Systems Technologies Worldwide Inc., here is the information that I got from autochannel.com that you need to know about this company:

“Quantum, a fully integrated alternative energy company, is a leader in powertrain engineering, system integration and manufacturing of packaged fuel systems and accessories for specialty vehicles and applications including fuel cells, hybrids, alternative fuels, hydrogen refueling, new body styles, mid- cycle vehicle product enhancements and high performance engines and drive trains for OEMs and consumers of aftermarket parts and accessories. Quantum also designs and manufactures hybrid and fuel cell vehicles. Quantum also develops and manufacturers advanced lithium-ion batteries through its partner, Advanced Lithium Power.

“Quantum has product commercialization alliances with General Motors, AM General and Sumitomo. Quantum's customer base includes General Motors, Toyota, Opel, Hyundai, Suzuki, Ford, DaimlerChrysler, SunLine, Yamaha, AeroVironment, and the U.S. Army.

“More information about Quantum's products and services just log in at http://www.qtww.com/.”

Europe’s Very Own Ford Fiesta Comes To The US

2007-06-11T23:35:00.000-07:00

The Ford Motor Company has been doing more efforts to provide us with great cars with great values as well. Well, just recently, they have proven their worth over the current number one biggest car maker - Toyota Motor Corporation. Ford was awarded by the J.D. Power and Associates as the most top quality maker of cars in the US while Toyota’s Lexus was found far below Ford. Now, they are receiving good news not like the past few months when most of the Ford news told about resigning officers, the closure of production plants and putting car brands on sale.

Now, the Ford Motor Company is making another move that will surely a good hit. Ford Europe will be bringing the 2009 Ford Fiesta to the US market. The first photos of the Europe very own car is circulating the net today. The new model is spotted on its first land on the North American soil. The Ford Fiesta is now available not only for the fuel conscious European car buyers, but for the Americans as well. The Ford officials have confirmed that the new car will be on the US car market soon.

To retain that classy European look, Ford will never change the kinetic design of the Ford Fiesta. The way it was designed in Europe will also be the way it will come when it is sold here in the US car market.

Some of the features of the Mazda2 are found on the next generation Ford Fiesta. According to many, the silhouette of the new three door car is remarkably similar to the five door vehicle. However, the design and style a like ends there. The new car is very European other than being a conventional car. Find those wheel arches on the corners. The C-pillar is also very assertive which defines the shape of a hatchback to the new vehicle. However, the current Fiesta Focus-inspired tail lamps will be replaced by a rear light which will be running along the beltline of the car.

Alan Mulally, the Ford Motor Company Chief Executive Officer and president, is more than eager to apply the power of the new the Blue Oval's global resources and this will be applied to the new car that will be made available on the US car market. However, the new car will be using diesel on the new car.

I need a Nissan headlight cover and some Nissan headlights for my old Nissan car. I hope before the day ends I can find these online.

Brad Pitt Drives A BMW Hydrogen Car

2007-06-07T00:23:00.000-07:00

The demands for fuel efficient cars are overflowing nowadays. We know that Japanese car makers such as Honda and the Toyota Motor Corporation are the leaders in terms of eco-friendliness but US and European cars makers are also hitching up on this kind of technology.

European cars were regarded as the most hazardous car makers but now, they are also making good efforts on making fuel efficient cars. Mention BMW, which had released a plan of making a few hydrogen-powered 7 Series sedans. However, these units will only be given to some selected individuals. Well, BMW has been able to make it happen. Well, some even say that there are even stars driving such a vehicle now.

BMW has extended its effort to furthermore improve the quality as well as the performance of their hydrogen powered cars. But sadly, only a few chosen individuals were chosen to participate on the experiment. Well, you should at least be a million dollar investor to get one. You should also somewhat be like those Hollywood stars who we all know definitely have millions in the bank.

Brad Pitt, with kids and married to the ever famous Angelina Jolie, is in fact a good candidate for this vehicle. Pitt was a star on the latest film released Ocean 13. The actor was spotted on the premiere of his movie last Tuesday driving a BMW Hydrogen 7. This will definitely improve the name of the car brand bragging its eco-friendliness that it was driven by famous movie star. The car that was driven by the Ocean 13 actor didn’t have the ever famous identifying "Hydrogen" mark on its trunk. Is it really a Hydrogen 7? We don’t know if it was. Anyway a fan of Brad Pitt saw the exit of the actor driving his BMW 7-Series.

Well, it doesn’t matter anyway if Brad Pitt drives one, guys. Meanwhile, if you are driving a BMW car and you need a BMW air filter and BMW accessories, online stores are selling these quality products. I guess we all have to wait for the right time that BMW would announce who are the lucky chosen ones to have the very first BMW Hydrogen 7.

Guthrie Previews Indy Racing League

2007-06-05T00:33:00.000-07:00

They’re back! Sean Guthrie and the Pro Series team are once again set and ready for the traditional Indy Racing League after a busy year in the prestigious Indy 500. They will visit the Milwaukee Mile which is a momentous facility enclosed in a Fairgrounds that accommodates tons and tons of racing fans annually. This Saturday, June 2nd, the venue will hold the fifth race of the 16-race schedule which is a one day Pro Series event - the “Road Runner 100”!

Fans will probably go wild when this event unfolds this Saturday! I’m definitely excited too and I won’t miss this for the world! I better finish fixing my window motor and door handle so that I can focus on this big event. But I’m going to leave you with some of the words stated by Sean Guthrie and his insights about the Indy Racing League:

"From what I know and have heard of the Milwaukee Mile, I’m really looking forward to racing there this weekend. But nothing really translates to Milwaukee as far as what we’ve learned from other races this year. We tested at Phoenix, which is a mile track, but it’s not Milwaukee. Phoenix and Indy share some setups, but not Milwaukee - it’s a different type of track, different aero package, and different staggers on the car. If you have not raced on the Milwaukee Mile, you really can’t take anything from what you’ve done in the past to apply it to what you are going to do, so I’ll just have to use my library of knowledge from adapting to other tracks and see how I can adapt to a new facility like a totally flat, mile oval.

"We’ve kind of compiled setups from testing at Phoenix earlier this year, along with taking advice from some other teams,” Guthrie continued. “There’s a new wing package all the way around, too, which will make things interesting. We plan to go in there slow at first and make it through the first practices. With a one-day event, we can’t afford any mistakes, as it would most likely take you completely out of the rest of the day, including the race. If we miss out on any practice time, we’ll be really far behind the other teams, especially the ones who have tested on the Mile this year. We hope to have a well-balanced car for the race, which is what we’ll focus on. We may qualify a bit back, but as long as we have a good car for the race - that will be what we’re aiming for. Hopefully we’ll be able to move through the field on our own and, with the inevitable attrition at a tight track like Milwaukee; we think we can finish up front."

The 2007 Subaru Legacy 2.5l Special Edition Sedan

2007-06-01T00:03:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for the street legacy? Oh yeah! The 2007 Subaru Legacy 2.5l Special Edition Sedan is here and it promises a lot of good stuff for all of us! Who could be more excited than the new car buyers today? I know they all want a piece of the Legacy because this vehicle is a special edition. I repeat - it is a special edition!

Let’s all check some of its main features and have a little taste of the Legacy! But I have to leave it all to you because last night, I just got my share of pictures when I saw this car on the internet while I was making some papers about the Nissan water pump and Nissan throttle body spacer.

Safety features:

Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive (AWD)
SUBARU BOXER engine
4-wheel antilock brakes ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
4-wheel independent suspension
Daytime Running Lights (DRL)
Dual-stage deployment driver and front-passenger front air bags (SRS)
Subaru advanced frontal air bag system with driver's seat position sensor and front-passenger occupant detection sensor (SRS)
Side-curtain air bags protecting front and rear outboard occupants (SRS)
Seat-mounted front side-impact air bags (SRS)
Height-adjustable active front-seat head restraints
Three rear head restraints
Height-adjustable 3-point front seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters.
3-point rear seatbelts at all seating positions.
Rear child-safety door locks
LATCH system: Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children
Safety brake pedal system
Energy-absorbing collapsible steering column

Interior & exterior features:

8-way power driver's seat with manually adjustable lumbar support. 4-way manually adjustable front-passenger seat.
60/40-split flat-folding rear seatback
3-spoke steering wheel with manually adjustable tilt column
Cloth upholstery
Titanium metallic trim on doors and console
Power front and rear windows with driver's auto-down
Electronically controlled cruise control
Dual cup holders in center console with retractable lid.
Sun visors with extenders and illuminated vanity mirrors
Projector-beam low-beam and multireflector high-beam headlights
Projector-beam fog lights∞
Aluminum-alloy hood
Front bumper with lower air intake and integrated front spoiler
Body-color door handles and side mirrors
Two-speed windshield wipers with variable intermittent mode
Aerodynamic side ground effects
Dual chrome exhaust outlets
Power tilt/sliding-glass moonroof

2007 Hyundai Veracruz Has Arrived

2007-05-26T00:34:00.001-07:00

Hyundai is making a big statement in the auto industry. I think they’re telling the world, “We can make it happen, too.” Yup, I absolutely agree with that! Hyundai cars evolved into competent vehicles that also boast off of extraordinary features. The Veracruz crossover was introduced last January at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS).

“Veracruz is an exceptional vehicle at the right time for this developing segment. The vehicle’s designers recognized that the needs and desires of traditional SUV buyers weren’t being met and focused on meeting those needs in an elegant and ingenious way. The result is a spacious crossover that delivers both refined style and first-rate performance,” said Steve Wilhite who holds the position as the chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor America.

“The 2007 Veracruz embraces both active and passive safety with a host of leading-edge technologies. Electronic Stability Control, six airbags including side curtain airbags protecting all three rows, and active front head restraints are found standard in Veracruz and are some of the industry’s most effective technologies,” said John Krafcik, the vice president of Strategic Planning and Product Developmentfor the mentioned company.

Let me give you some bits of the Veracruz’s specifications which I gathered last night when I was busy taking some notes about Mercedes Benz mufflers and the Infiniti head gasket.

Specifications:
ENGINE:
 Type: DOHC CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) V6 (transverse mounted)
 Materials: Aluminum block and head
 Bore & Stroke: 96 mm x 87 mm
 Displacement: 3.8 liters / 3,778 cc
 Compression Ratio: 10:4:1
 Horsepower: 260
 Torque: 257
 Valves per cylinder: 4

TRANSMISSION:
 Gear ratios
 6-speed electronic automatic
 First: 4.148:1-Second 2.370:1- Third: 1.556:1- Fourth: 1.155:1- Fifth: 0.859:1-Sixth: 0.686:1- Reverse: 3.394:1- Final Drive : 3.2:1

DRIVE SYSTEM:
 2WD - Front-wheel drive
 AWD - Electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive system automatically routes power to the wheels that have the best traction. The driver-selectable AWD lock provides a continuous 50/50 torque split between front and rear wheels

SUSPENSION:
 Front: Independent MacPherson strut design, coil springs, 27 mm stabilizer bar and gas-charged shock absorbers
 Rear: Independent multi-link design, coil springs, 17 mm stabilizer bar and gas-charged shock absorbers

STEERING
 Type - Power-assisted rack & pinion
 Turning diameter: 36.7 feet (curb to curb)

Summer is Hotter as Ford Reveals Supercharged F-150

2007-05-24T23:50:00.000-07:00

Just as the summer gets heated up with the scorching sun, Ford will be making the season hotter by revealing one of the new revamped versions of its full size F-150. The increasingly competitive Harley-Davidson F-150 is now a supercharged full-size pick-up truck.

Priced under $6,500, the new supercharged option is a special participation made by Saleen which is an established Ford tuner. So, the new supercharged Harley-Davidson F-150 will sell with a price of $36,285 plus an additional $925 for the destination charge.

The same supercharged set up is found with the Ford Shelby GT500 Mustang. The dual-stage intercooler in the Mustang will also be available on the Harley-Davidson F-150 and starts with the base price of $6,500. It also has the same powertrain engine but the application is different. The latest F-150 engine produces 450 horsepower and 500 lbs-ft of torque. The new pick up truck is also mated to a four-speed automatic transmission.

Some car parts are not specified. The company did not mention whether parts like Dynomax are available on the new truck model. However, the same Ford parts will be on the new truck.

The new Supercharged F-150 is painted with two color designs - dark amethyst and black. The dark amethyst resembles a bad purple so it appears like mad and bad at the same time. It is also added with 22 inch wheels on a limited edition Harley-Davidson design plus of course, the supercharged version which is found under its hood.

2007 Ford Crown Victoria

2007-05-23T00:07:00.000-07:00

The 2007 Ford Crown Victoria is one of the “cream of the crop” from Ford’s range of vehicles. Who could possibly ignore this car? It’s classy and has a sophisticated look that has captured car buyers with its natural façade. It also comes with the complete amenities of a luxury car! When I was inquiring about the Mitsubishi Lancer cold air induction and BMW radiators last night, I also spent a little time getting some of the 2007 Crown Victoria’s specifications and features. Be amazed with the 2007 Ford Crowd Victoria features! Here goes:

Features:

17" 5-spoke aluminum wheels.
4.6L 239-hp V8 engine
All-Speed Traction Control
Antilock Brake System
auto-dim rearview mirror
body-color grille
crash severity sensor
Front side impact airbags available with LX Premier Group, LX Premium Sport Handling and Performance Package
Front-Passenger Sensing System
Individual Front Powered seats
Leather-trimmed interior
leather-wrapped steering wheel with auxiliary audio and climate controls
LX Premier group
LX Premium Sport Handling
Overhead Console
Performance Package
Personal Safety System® with dual-stage front airbags
power lumbar adjustment on both front seats
power passenger seat
Rear wheel drive
Remote Keyless Entry with Smartlock
restraint control module
safety belt energy management retractors
safety belt pretensioners
safety belt usage sensors
single CD/cassette players
standard driver and passenger dual-stage airbags.
Three-Passenger Split-Benched Seat
Trunk Storage Unit

Specifications

Driveline: Rear-wheel drive
Engine: 4.6L SEFI V8
Horsepower@rpm: 224 at 4,800
Torque@rpm: 275@4,000
Engine electronics EEC-V
Fuel system: Sequential electronic fuel injection
Fuel economy EPA est. mpg: 17 city/26 highway
Transmission: Electronic 4-speed automatic overdrive
Front suspension: Independent SLA, coil springs, stabilizer bar, monotube gas-pressurized shock absorbers
Rear suspension: Watts linkage
Tires: P225/60TRx16 all-season BSW
Steering: Power rack-and-pinion, speed-sensitive
Brakes: 4-wheel disc, anti-lock braking system (ABS)

Droolfest: the Volkswagen GTI W12 Concept

2007-05-21T07:01:00.000-07:00

Well Volkswagen seems to be having a field day just making us drool.

Volkswagen has recently revealed the GTI W12 concept -- an uber-high-performance version of its popular GTI hatchback which boasts a 12-cylinder, 6.0 liter motor. This translates to the GTI W12 hitting 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds.

Delivering 650 horsepower and 553 pound feet of torque, this GTI uses the same powerplant found in nothing less than the Bentley Continental, Audi A8, Volkswagen Phaeton, and Touareg. The engine is based on two narrow-angle VR6 engines joined at the crank.

The car features extensive body modifications and upgraded Volkswagen GTI performance parts for increased aerodynamics. It rides on 19-inch wheels.

Volkswagen says the GTI W12 can hit a top speed of 202 mph. "This GTI moved the wing inward," explains Klaus Bischoff. "The roof is part of an enormous diffuser, which provides sufficient down force on the rear axle. It is made of carbon fiber and forces air over and under the tail spoiler to obtain a perfect amount of pressure on the rear axle."

We can drool all we want now, but production of this beauty is highly unlikely.

The 2007 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited

2007-05-18T00:07:00.001-07:00

Have you noticed the vast changes of the Subaru Outback since it debuted in 1995? I myself can’t believe that this humble crossover has emerged into a premium vehicle this year. The Outback’s reputation as the “World’s First Sport-Utility Wagon” made this vehicle known to every automobile aficionado. From being a humble newcomer to being a fabulous vehicle, the Outback certainly boasts of fortune and fame now!

I myself was surprised when this vehicle climbed up to the top, and there’s no doubt that the Outback promises a great auto performance and splendid features that new car buyers will surely love! I wasn’t familiar of this vehicle not until last night when I explored the net while looking for a Chevrolet pickup throttle body and Chevrolet pickup transfer case lowering kits. It was fun studying the entire aspects of this car, and to give you some bits about it, here are some of the specifications of the 2007 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited which I learnt about from here.

The 2007 Subaru Outback 2.5i Limited specifications:

Base Price; $ 27,595
Price As Tested: $ 29,192
Engine Type: single overhead cam, 16-valve horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder with variable valve lift
Engine Size: 2.5 liters / 150 cu. in.
Horsepower: 175 at 6000 rpm
Torque (lb-ft): 169 at 4400 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed automatic with manual-shift mode
Wheelbase / Length: 105.1 in. / 188.7 in.
Curb Weight: 3420 lbs.
Pounds Per Horsepower: 19.5
Fuel Capacity: 16.9 gal.
Fuel Requirement: 87 octane unleaded regular gasoline
Tires: P225/55 VR17 Bridgestone Potenza RE92
Brakes, front/rear: vented disc / solid disc, ABS and EBD standard
Suspension, front/rear: independent MacPherson strut/independent multilink
Ground clearance: 8.4 inches
Drivetrain: inline front engine, permanent all-wheel drive

Performance:

EPA Fuel Economy - miles per gallon
city / highway as observed: 22 / 28 / 230 to 60 mph est. 9 sec
Towing Capacity: 2700 pounds

Options and Charges:
Cargo Area Convenience Group

seatback cargo net
cargo area spotlight
2 side cargo nets
rear cargo net: $212

Popular Equipment Group 1b

Auto-dimming mirror with compass
Security system upgrade: $304
XM satellite radio kit: $456
Destination charge: $625

Chevy Sequel Runs on Hydrogen Fuel for 300 Miles!

2007-05-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

300 miles of driving range for an electrically driven fuel cell vehicle? Hmm.. not bad.

Well, it is for General Motors' Chevrolet Sequel hybrid crossover SUV, which has recently achieved 300 miles of driving range in just one tank of hydrogen fuel. This is a milestone for
GM in their long term development of fuel cell vehicle models.

Larry Burns, GM Vice President, Research & Development and Strategic Planning said:
"With this drive, General Motors has reached another important milestone toward the commercialization of our fuel cell vehicles, by achieving the range expected by today's consumers. And we did it while producing zero emissions, as a hydrogen fuel cell vehicle only emits water. In addition, the hydrogen produced at Niagara Falls, used to fuel Sequel, was derived from hydropower - a clean, renewable resource. This means that the entire process - from the creation of the hydrogen to the use of the fuel in the vehicle -- was virtually carbon dioxide free."

Burns continued: "General Motors is proving that advanced technology can remove the automobile from the environmental debate and reduce our dependence on petroleum. Chevy Sequel clearly shows that our vision for the future of the automobile is real and sustainable. It is our fuel cell teams' tremendous record of success and absolute dedication to this tremendously important cause," Burns said, "which will ultimately enable our country, and our world, to diversify our energy sources and displace large amounts of petroleum."

Unveiled at the 2005 North American International Auto Show in Detroit as a concept vehicle, The Chevy Sequel is powered by a fuel cell powertrain and equipped with GM's fuel cell stack that produces a power output of about 98 hp (73 kW). The fuel cell stack is combined with a lithium-ion battery pack that also produce an additional power output of 65 kW. The Chevy Sequel is an environmental friendly vehicle as it only emits water vapor on its exhaust pipe.

I wonder if GM will also develop the same fuel cell powertrain for the Chevy Camaro equipped with Camaro performance parts.

Cigarette Smoking Devalues Cars on Sales

2007-05-16T00:53:00.000-07:00

Cigarette smoking - what does that do to you? It burns your alveoli and it kills your neurons. It is bad for your health and everybody is aware of that. Now some states in America is keen on watching those smoking while driving. Smoking in vehicles was just recently banned in Scotland and in Wales as well.

But recent news says, aside from these facts, cigarette smoking also affects the value of cars. Of course, news like this should come from a reliable source. The British Car Auctions, a famous auction company in the UK that sells large amounts of used cars a year, released the news that smoking devalues the car price. The smell as well as the nicotine locked inside the car makes the car so hard to sell.

Tim Naylor, BCA’s PR manager, said, “We have conducted research amongst a representative sample of top professional motor trade buyers on the main factors that influenced the price of used cars. While specification remains the strongest price indicator, presentation is the next most important factor.”

“Presentation is not just about how it looks, but how it smells! It’s another good reason for smokers to avoid lighting up in their car. This will avoid the lingering smell of cigarettes hanging in the interior as well as eliminate the risk of discolouring and leaving scorch marks in the ashtray or on upholstery. All of these things will put buyers off, even if they smoke themselves,” he further discloses.

If you are a car buyer, what would you look for? Of course, you would not want to have a worn out BMW fan clutch to be on your car, right? You would also look for the one clean used car with at least few things to rearrange and replace if need be. Car buyers are also looking for nicotine free car interiors. Who would buy your cars if it smells like an ash tray, or if their linings are all covered with nicotine stains? If you are a car buyer, would you favor such kind even if offered in low prices?

“With the smoking ban already in place in Wales and Scotland and soon to come into force in England, there are now thousands of ex-fleet vehicles in the marketplace that have never been smoked in. It means any car that has been heavily smoked is potentially at a disadvantage when it comes to be sold”, Naylor added to his statement.

BCA is handling over a million of cars every year, and they supply almost half of the cars in their area. Mostly are coming from car fleets and some are from the owners themselves. Ever since the news about the banned on smoking inside the car was revealed, these car rental companies have prohibited smoking inside the car.

“Professional business sellers realised that they were losing money on vehicles they were selling that had been smoked in. At the end of the day, motorists buying a used car don’t want to be reminded of the previous owner every time they get behind the steering wheel. With smoking banned in enclosed spaces across Scotland and Wales, smokers would do well to maintain the ban in their car too. Keeping the car clean and fresh can help sellers boost the final sale price of their vehicle dramatically,” said Naylor as his final statement.

So if you are still planning to sell your car, take care of that Husky liner or even deodorize your BMW steering rack so when you finally sell it, it would be a nice car catch for those interested buyers.

New Saab 9-3 range debuts for 2008

2007-05-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

Hot off the press: new 2008 Saab 9-3 debuts in the U.S.

Inspired by the award-winning Aero X concept car, the new Saab 9-3 range will, according to the company press release -- feature bold styling and cutting edge technology for greater driving appeal.

Sporting an all-new front bodywork, 'signature' lighting, new door panels and rear styling features, the newest ride in the Saab stable boasts of a more focused, assertive stance – just the stuff that would once again excite fans of this vehicle to the hilt.

All new 9-3s are immediately recognizable by the sharper frontal styling, which uses fascia, grille and surfacing themes first seen on the Aero X concept, along with a return of Saab's classic 'clamshell' hood design – first seen in the iconic 1967 Saab 99. The 9-3's new look is reinforced by other exterior car parts changes that all combine to create a clearer, more distinctive Saab identity for the range.

The new 9-3 portfolio continues to include Sport Sedan, SportCombi and Convertible models. Available as the 2.0T and 2.8 V6 Aero, the range is expected in United States showrooms this fall.

Saab is a division of General Motors Corp. Saab Automobile USA is the importer and/or distributor of Saab 9-3, 9-5 and 9-7X automobiles for Saab Automobile AB, Sweden. Visit www.saabusa.com for more information.

Four Millionth Land Rover Goes to Born Free

2007-05-10T18:50:00.000-07:00

59 years after production began at the company's factory in Solihull, Land Rover passed a historic milestone yesterday when the four millionth vehicle rolled off the production line.

But you’re not going to see it in any showroom floor – as the the vehicle, a Land Rover LR3 complete with top of the line Land Rover parts, was donated by the company to the Born Free Foundation, a charity dedicated to wildlife conservation and animal welfare. Actress Joanna Lumley, Born Free's Founder patron collected the vehicle which will become a 'Rapid Response Rescue' vehicle for deployment across the UK and Europe.

Will Travers, Born Free chief executive, said, "This important vehicle will enable us to carry out important frontline conservation and animal welfare missions at will. Without Land Rover's support we simply would not be able to reach some of the off-road remote destinations or tackle some of the rescues that are a vital part of our work. "

This summer is likely to see the Born Free Rapid Response Rescue Discovery 3 extensively used by Born Free's partner, British Divers Marine Life Rescue, rescuing, treating and releasing stranded or abandoned marine mammals, especially Common and Grey seals, which frequently get into trouble along Britain’s shores during the breeding season.

Land Rover has pioneered responsible off-roading through its 'Fragile Earth' policy globally and Tread Lightly support in North America for many years and currently works with Earthwatch, Royal Geographical Society (RGS), China Exploration and Research Society (CERS), and Biosphere Expeditions.

Born Free has been one of Land Rover's Global Sponsorship Partners since 2002. The sponsorship includes financial and vehicle support in the UK , Kenya , Ethiopia , South Africa and Sri Lanka . In 2006 Land Rover's support contributed to the rescue and relocation of three lions from a circus in France to Shamwari in South Africa.

Born Free protects lions, elephants, tigers, gorillas, wolves, polar bears, dolphins, marine turtles and much more in their natural habitat, working with local communities to help people and wildlife live together without conflict. Our high-profile campaigns change public attitudes, persuade decision-makers and get results. Every year, Born Free helps hundreds of thousands of animals worldwide.

Phil Popham, managing director of Land Rover, said, "We are delighted to hand this car over to Born Free. The production of the four millionth Land Rover is a major milestone and it is only fitting that it goes to such a worthy cause. I'm proud of our support for the charity and the company's contribution to both the local and national economy over the past 59 years."

Don’t Text While Driving

2007-05-09T23:54:00.000-07:00

There have been a lot of banned activities during driving. Of course, we are all aware that smoking while driving is now being prohibited to some states in the US. Using the mobile phone during driving is also one among the high rankers on the list. The latter activity actually is a part of using phones on the street. But it is not entirely locked into just using the phone. The most recently banned activity is sending SMS or texting. According to some officers, the use of SMS sending is far more dangerous that talking on the phone during a drive.

Texting while on the road is now banned in New Jersey. Anyone caught doing this prohibited activity will pay fines which could range from $100 to $250 as this was agreed by 20 co-sponsors of the different parties. Some other states are also considering similar legislations and this includes states like Arizona, Connecticut and Washington. Washington actually passed a bill since last December when an accident happened in the Seattle highway which was caused by a man who was using his BlackBerry phone while driving. I was actually on the scene of the accident on my way to the car parts store to buy my Chilton and Covercraft.

There have been a lot of studies that reveal that using the phone during driving can be a great risk for road accidents. And because of this, phone companies have developed hands-free phones which are actually used for driving. But because driving also uses brain, drivers who are using phones during a drive still do get caught in accidents. Talking on phone actually decreases the brain activity and some part of the brain cannot recognize what is happening around him, which that could sometimes lead to a fatal death.

And is talking on phone is fatal - imagine how much attention is needed if you text during driving. Accidents have been noted because of this irresponsible kind of attitude towards driving. According to the Patrick Sims from CBS News, “I think about this car accident every single day of my life."

Now, would you still text while driving? No... I don’t want to die early.

Here Comes Another Mustang: the Steeda GT500

2007-05-08T20:15:00.000-07:00

Just when you thought you’ve had enough of Mustangs this year now comes another modified Mustang – this time from big-time Ford aftermarket and Pompano Beach-based company Steeda: the (what else?) Steeda GT500.

Choosing the 2007 Camp Steeda / SVT Owners Association Open Track Event at the famed Sebring International Raceway, Steeda Autosports President Dario Orlando led the world debut of the new Steeda GT500. The Steeda Engineering Team took the GT500 to the "Ultimate Level" by using their sophisticated CAD/CAM engineering modeling intelligence, rapid design, and in-house manufacturing capabilities.

According to the company press release, performance modifications made to the vehicle include:

Engine:

* Steeda GT500 Pro-Flow Cold Air Intake - Product Link
* Steeda /SCT Performance ECU Tune - Product Link
* Steeda Upper Supercharger Pully - Product Link

Exhaust:

* Steeda Axle-Back Stainless Steel System - Product Link

Brakes:

* Steeda 13" Rear Brake upgrade Kit - Product Link
* Steeda 14" Slotted Front Rotors and upgraded pads - Product Link

Drivetrain:

* Steeda Tri-Ax Shifter - Product Link

Suspension:

* Steeda Coilover Suspension System - Product Link
* Steeda Performance Alignment
* Steeda Billet Rear Lower Control Arms - Product Link
* Steeda Lower Control Arm Relocation Brackets - Product Link
* Steeda Adjustable Panhard Bar - Product Link
* Steeda Double Adjustable 3rd Link - Product Link
* Steeda Competition Front Swaybar - Product Link
* Steeda Billet Swaybar Mount Kit - Product Link
* Steeda Competition Rear Swaybar - Product Link
* Steeda X5 Balljoints - Product Link
* Steeda Bumpsteer Kit - Product Link

The Steeda GT500 comes at an upgrade price of $13,995. Contact your local Steeda authorized dealer, call Steeda directly at 954-960-0774, or visit www.steeda.com for more information.

GMC Acadia Gets Most Significant Vehicle of the Year Award

2007-05-07T22:00:00.000-07:00

I thought Edmunds.com was only a good source of news but the reputable website actually gives away good info about which car is the best car for you, for your needs, and for your budget. Actually I was looking for a Eibach pro kit when I landed my mouse on this particular piece of news. Yup, Edmunds.com released the list of the 2007 Consumers' Most Wanted Vehicle Awards and it was released today at their official website.

"These awards provide a good idea of what consumers are looking for in their next vehicle. This year, consumers voiced the opinion that the domestics are developing some very compelling cars and trucks," the Editor in Chief of Edmunds.com, Karl Brauer, said.

The other winners were (those enclosed in parenthesis are the winners as per last year):

Most Significant Vehicle of the Year
2007 GMC Acadia

Sedan Under $15,000
2007 Chevrolet Cobalt (HYUNDAI ACCENT/KIA RIO)

Sedan Under $20,000
2007 Honda Civic (HONDA CIVIC)and 2007 Mazda 3 (tie)

Sedan Under $25,000
2007 Saturn Aura (MAZDA 6)

Sedan Under $30,000
2007 Acura TSX (HYUNDAI AZERA)

Sedan Under $35,000
2007 Cadillac CTS (BMW 3 SERIES)

Sedan Under $45,000
2007 Cadillac STS (INFINITI M35/M45)

Sedan Under $60,000
2007 BMW 5 Series (BMW 5 SERIES)

Sedan Over $60,000
2007 Lexus LS 460 (AUDI A8)

Coupe Under $20,000
2007 Honda Civic (HONDA CIVIC)

Coupe Under $30,000
2007 Ford Mustang (MINI COOPER)

Coupe Under $40,000
2007 Infiniti G35 (INFINITI G35)

Coupe Under $60,000
2007 Chevrolet Corvette (PORSCHE CAYMAN)

Coupe Over $60,000
2007 Porsche 911(PORSCHE 911)

Wagon Under $15,000
2007 Kia Rio5 (KIA RIO5)

Wagon Under $20,000
2007 Mazda 3 (MAZDA 3)

Wagon Under $30,000
2007 Audi A3 (DODGE MAGNUM)

Wagon Under $40,000
2007 Audi A4 and 2007 BMW 3 Series (tie) (AUDI A4)

Wagon Over $40,000
2007 BMW 5 Series (MERCEDES-BENZ E-CLASS)

SUV Under $25,000
2007 Toyota RAV4 (HONDA CR-V)

SUV Under $35,000
2007 GMC Acadia/2007 Saturn Outlook (MAZDA CX-9)

SUV Under $45,000
2007 Chevrolet Suburban / 2007 GMC Yukon XL / 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe / 2007 GMC Yukon (ACURA MDX)

SUV Over $45,000
2007 Cadillac Escalade/2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV (MERCEDES-BENZ GL-CLASS)

Convertible Under $25,000
2007 Saturn Sky (MAZDA MX-5)

Convertible Under $35,000
2007 Honda S2000 (FORD MUSTANG)

Convertible Under $45,000
2007 BMW Z4 (LOTUS ELISE)

Convertible Under $60,000
2007 Chevrolet Corvette (PORSCHE BOXSTER)

Convertible Over $60,000
2007 Cadillac XLR (PORSCHE 911)

Compact Truck
2007 Toyota Tacoma (TOYOTA TACOMA)

Large Truck
2007 Chevrolet Silverado/2007 GMC Sierra (TOYOTA TUNDRA)

Minivan
2007 Honda Odyssey (HONDA ODYSSEY)

Exotic
2007 Bugatti Veyron 16.4 (FERRARI 599 GTB FLORANO and BENTLEY CONTINENTAL FLYING SPUR SEDAN)

Now you know what to buy in terms of popularity to customers.

GM Racing: Pontiac Drivers Highlights

2007-05-02T19:20:00.000-07:00

The Pontiac GTO and other Pontiac sports car models are one of the most successful GM Racing brands at the NHRA (National Hot Rod Asssociation) Pro Stock racing competition. These include Greg Anderson's recent victory in Atlanta Dragway aboard his Pontiac GTO with quality GTO Borla Exhaust.

Check out the other achievements made by Pontiac drivers according to GM Racing (http://www.gm.com/company/racing/index.jsp):

* Pontiac teammates Greg Anderson and Jason Line have reset top-speed records at all six venues this year (using GM DRCE3 horsepower). Anderson's track-record runs came at Pomona, Phoenix, Houston, Las Vegas and Atlanta, and Line's GTO set a national-record top speed of 211.69 mph at Gainesville Raceway (Fla.).

* Greg Anderson's win at Atlanta was Pontiac's 176th all time in the NHRA Pro Stock category, and the three-time NHRA POWERade champion's fourth victory this season.

* Anderson's Pontiac set both ends of the Atlanta Dragway track record with an elapsed time of 6.627 seconds and a top speed of 208.71 mph. Anderson holds the track e.t. record at seven NHRA venues and the top speed record at 11 sites.

* Staggering statistics on Anderson over the last four years show that the Summit Racing Pontiac driver has won 44 percent (43 out of 98) of his races, and qualified in the No. 1 spot at 52 percent of the contests he's entered (51 out of 98) since his first championship title in 2003.

* Eight drivers in GM-branded cars hold a spot in the top 10 of the Pro Stock standings and seven drivers are in the elite eight. Greg Anderson (Pontiac) leads the pack with 602 points, Jason Line (Pontiac) is in second place with 390 points, Jeg Coughlin Jr. (Chevrolet) is in third place with 371 points, Dave Connolly (Chevrolet) is fourth with 363 points and Warren Johnson (Pontiac) is fifth with 298 points. Mike Edwards (Pontiac) is in sixth place with 296 points, Kurt Johnson (Chevrolet) is seventh with 291 points and Greg Stanfield (Pontiac) is 10th with 273 points. A margin of 212 points separates first place from second place, while a margin of only 117 points separates second place from 10th place.

* During a Hall of Fame induction weekend, Warren Johnson advanced to his 150th career final round at the Summit Racing Southern Nationals at Atlanta Dragway. It was the eighth career final round appearance at Atlanta Dragway for the GM Performance Parts Pontiac driver (he's won the race five times).

* Warren Johnson won the inaugural meet at Gateway International Raceway in 1997 and again in 2001.

* Seven current competitors in GM-branded Pro Stock cars have posted wins at Gateway International Raceway including Warren Johnson, Ron Krisher (2000, 2003), Kurt Johnson (1998, 2005), Greg Anderson (2004), Jeg Coughlin (2002), Jim Yates (1999) and defending champion Mike Edwards.

* Anderson's elapsed time of 6.692 seconds set in a Pontiac in June 2006 is the current track record at Gateway International Raceway, and Anderson's top speed of 206.23 mph, also set in June 2006 is the current track record.

The Ford GT-Based Roush 600RE

2007-05-02T18:49:00.000-07:00

Roush, the popular United States-based tuning company for Ford vehicle models has created a one of a kind piece of automotive engineering. We all know that Roush tunes up Ford Mustangs, Ford Focus models, and Ford 150 trucks. This time, the company's European arm has created the 600RE, a limited edition super car model based on the Ford GT. The 600RE comes with numerous new exclusive features inside and out from Roush.

Unfortunately, the Roush 600RE is a very limited model and only 10 units (yes! only 10!) of this super car model will be produced and will roll out in Avro Motor Cars in Surrey. The Roush 600RE will be assembled in Roush Technical Centre in Brentwood, Essex.

Highlights of the new Roush 600RE include:

* Upgraded Supercharger Pulley System
* Unique Vehicle Numbering And Identity Plaques
* Unique Keyed Light Pack
* Tubi Exhaust System
* Tinted Glass
* Transmission Oil Breather System
* Colour Keyed Hoses
* Black Powder Coated Wheels
* (Optional) 4-Point Harness Pack

Accoridng to James Bassett, Roush Europe's Marketing Manager: "The Roush 600RE builds upon the success we achieved from the Roush 420RE Mustang. We have again, taken a winning formula and enhanced those areas with features which our customers have asked for. The Roush 600RE is a truly exclusive edition and takes the fantastic Ford GT forward - even further."

Ford To Have Another Round Of Job Cuts

2007-05-02T00:29:00.001-07:00

Looks like Ford is in desperate need of success. Just like its fellow American car maker GM, who recently planned to have job cuts on its production plant in Antwerp, Ford will undergo job cuts as well. We all knew about the breakdown of the three previous large car makers of the world that now, it is quite clear that Toyota is dominating the scene. And now, Ford had to undergo another round of job cuts as a part of its Way Forward Plan.

Ford’s Chief Executive Officer, Alan Mullaly, announced its plan to stop selling one of its best selling car brands (in its entire history) - Jaguar. According to the president of Ford, they don’t have plans to sell the Jaguar brand since Ford is having the car model on behind. Ford had a 36% improvement on its profits under the shade of the Premier Automotive Group, but it doesn’t guarantee that Ford will still continue the production of its luxury brand Jaguar.

UK's Transport and General Workers Union asked Ford if they will still sell the car brand. Ford mentioned that they have informed their workers that they don’t plan to sell the model however if it doesn’t sells until 2010, the plan to reduce the number of jobs will be pursued and a new car model will be produced wearing the same performance parts and Ford parts which would be just like every car model that they have released.