Hyundai Sonata Launching 2010-2011

Story by : KSSN

- Hyundai’s sixth-generation Sonata encompasses new `fluidic sculpture’ design philosophy

- Features 2.0 Theta II MPi engine, 6-speed automatic transmission

(Note: All specifications and details in this release are based on the Korean domestic model Hyundai Sonata Launching 2010-2011)

(Seoul, Korea) Hyundai Motor Company’s all-new Sonata, being introduced today, is expected to shake up the world’s mid-size sedan market with its daring design.

The 2010 Sonata adopts Hyundais new “fluidic sculpture” design language, boasts outstanding performance with the segment-leading safety features and fuel efficiency. Incorporating state-of-the-art technologies, the new Sonata will further elevate the Hyundai brand.

“The Sonata will set a new standard for world class mid-size sedans with state-of-the-art technology, superior build quality and emotional design,” Euisun Chung, Hyundai’s Vice Chairman said at the launching ceremony for the car today in Seoul. “The new Sonata will raise Hyundai’s brand values.

”The ceremony, held at a trendy riverside cafe, was attended by more than 200 VIPs, company executives and media members.

Sonata has been the perennial best-seller in Korea since the first generation model was launched in 1985. The sixth-generation Sonata will continue this successful tradition with impeccable quality seen today in other Hyundai premium models, such as the Genesis and EQUUS.

Hyundai began developing the new Sonata in 2005 under the codename YF (Note: The car may be launched under a different name in some regions). The project took 4 years and 450 billion won (US$ 372 million*) to go from concept to customer.

Although it is a completely new vehicle, Hyundai is retaining the Sonata name as the mid-size car has been Korea’s most popular sedan. Applying a new design aesthetic of “fluidic sculpture,” the 2010 Sonata pursues a younger and sensuous image in its interior and exterior profiles. Inspired by nature, the “fluidic sculpture” tries to reflect sophistication and dynamism in the shape of the vehicle and will serve as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.

The outer design of the new Sonata exudes a voluminous look that creates character through the refined and harmonized lines. The interior has a dynamic look that matches the exterior while not compromising comfort or convenience. The Sonata is available in nine exterior colors, from Remington Red to Blue Black to Espresso, satisfying the diverse tastes of younger customers.

The new Sonata delivers powerful performance through its 2-liter Theta II MPi gasoline engine (Max output 165ps, Max torque of 20.2?·m). Delivering the highest fuel economy in its segment at 12.8 kilometers per liter, fuel economy is more than 11% improved compared with today’s Sonata. Furthermore, all engines are offered with a new six-speed automatic transmission for heightened performance.

To meet the most stringent automotive safety and crash requirements, the Sonata is built with hot-stamped ultra high-strength steel while featuring six standard airbags.

In addition, safety has been upgraded with standard Vehicle Dynamic Control including Hill-start Assist Control and Brake Assist System functions?an industry first in this competitive segment.

The new Sonata comes with a three-piece panoramic sunroof, giving a sense of openness and freedom as well as a stylish look. The Parking Guide System (PGS) allows drivers to avoid obstacles during parallel parking or when driving in reverse. The Dimension premium sound system offers high-quality sound in three types of modes to satisfy customers’ wide-ranging musical tastes.

The Mozen system, a telematics service that debuted in 2003 in Korea, has evolved to become more sophisticated, offering more diverse and upgraded multi-media and IT functions.

The newly applied Mozen Premium Wide Navigation system provides drivers with a faster communication service through the third-generation WCDMA wireless network. For two years, it also offers free safety services such as an SOS and anti-theft tracking service.

The audio-visual functions have been upgraded with the 8-inch wide screen and JBL Premium Sound system.

In the new Sonata, Hyundai offers a wireless vehicle monitoring service?another industry first– through the Mozen Autocare service, linking the vehicle’s electronic control systems to a monitoring center. The center checks various components for errors, informs the driver of the analysis, and provides directions to nearby service centers, saving time for drivers.

Hyundai revealed it aims to sell 60.000 units of the 2011 Sonata sedan in its home, Korean market by the end of this year, while next year, Hyundai plans to double that number.

Hyundai will continue to produce Sonata at both of its overseas manufacturing plants, located in Alabama, US and China. Production of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata for the US market will begin early next year, while production in China will commence in the beginning of 2011. From that year, combined Korean and overseas production of new Sonata is expected to reach 450.000 units annually!

Pricing for the US-market Sonata will be revealed closer to its official US debut, scheduled for NAIAS 2010. In Korea, Sonata will be priced from 21.3 million Won (US$17.600) for a base 2.0L model and top out at 25.95 million Won (US$21,450) for a fully-loaded 2.0L model. Read more!

Game Forza Motorsport 3

Forza Motorsport 3 is a racing simulator video game by Turn 10 Studios. The game is due for release in October 27, 2009 for the Xbox 360. It is the sequel to Forza Motorsport 2 and the third installment in the Forza Motorsport series. The demo for the game was released to the Xbox Live Marketplace on September 24, 2009 as an Xbox Live Gold Member exclusive. It will be available to those with silver membership one week later.

Forza Motorsport 3 is a realistic racing simulator on the Xbox 360, the sequel to Forza Motorsport (Xbox) and Forza Motorsport 2 (Xbox 360). The game will include over 400 fully customizable cars from 50 manufacturers and over 100 tracks.[4] Every car in the game has been built with more than 10 times the amount of polygons as Forza Motorsport 2.

Dan Greenawalt unveiling Forza Motorsport 3 at E3 2009

Gameplay

New additions to the game include an in-car driving view, one button assisted driving, vehicle rollover, and for the first time in the series, trucks and SUVs, as well as the ability to paint race cars (the previous game in the series allowed only production and tuner cars to be painted). Also included will be the ability to create in-game videos and upload them to the Forza Motorsport website. Forza Motorsport 3 will be shipped on two discs, but can be played completely off the first; the second disc serves as the "installation disc," which will contain some additional cars and tracks.

A new single-player season mode will put the player through a completely personalized racing calendar that includes more than 200 different events, including circuit, oval, drag, drift, and timed events; no two calendars will be the same. Also, Turn 10 Studios have confirmed that Circuit de la Sarthe (which is used for the Le Mans 24 Hour Race) shall be included.[5]
In addition, the online multiplayer mode gains an all-new game rules editor. New Xbox Live scoreboards will display not only the greatest racers but also the most prolific car tuners and painters in the community.

A new single-player season mode will put the player through a completely personalized racing calendar that includes more than 200 different events, including circuit, oval, drag, drift, and timed events; no two calendars will be the same. Also, Turn 10 Studios have confirmed that Circuit de la Sarthe (which is used for the Le Mans 24 Hour Race) shall be included.[5]
In addition, the online multiplayer mode gains an all-new game rules editor. New Xbox Live scoreboards will display not only the greatest racers but also the most prolific car tuners and painters in the community.

At the E3 2009 Microsoft Press Conference, Turn 10 mentioned a rewind feature (much like the "flashback" feature on Dirt 2), but did not say exactly what it did. It was later revealed at E3 2009 coverage conciel that the rewind feature will allow players to turn back time to fix previous mistakes made on the track. The rewind feature has no limit on how many times it can be done or time between rewinds.[6] It is one of the many assists that are optional.

During another interview at E3 2009, game director Dan Greenawalt revealed that the updated physics engine will include tire deformation, and the ability to flip your car over. He also included that there will be a "pressure" system in which the AI, depending on how the difficulty is set, will actually make mistakes when under pressure[7]. In addition to improvements to the A.I. and physics, the new graphics engine features ten times more polygons in each car model, bump mapping, and texture resolutions four times higher than before. Also, it is confirmed that the game will run at 60 frames per second.[8] The interview also revealed that there will be several scoreboards ranging from driver scoreboards to painting and tuner leaderboards. There will be a video editor feature available. Dan Greenawalt stated that Project Blackjack, the team that made an E3 trailer[9], used capture cards to make their videos. The video editor would grant players more possibilities. Players would also be able to create their own race rules.

Save 10Best Test:2010 Fit Honda.

I love the fact that Honda doesn’t hold back on the goodness that makes driving enjoyable, even for those that only spend $16,000 on a new car.

The Fit’s light and accurate shifter and clutch, along with properly weighted and precise steering (it even tilts and telescopes) that wouldn’t be out of place on a car costing two or three times as much set this spacious hatch apart from the other economobiles that are far more mundane.

Combine that dollop of fun with amazing utility—vast cargo hold, various seat-folding options, storage cubbies galore, and a back seat that’s more accommodating than a Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon’s that I also drove today—and it’s easy to see why the Fit is a 10Best repeater.

2009 Honda Fit Sport Automatic

When people ask us for car-buying advice, we invariably throw our most recent January issue at them and point to the 10Best Cars list. There may be an annoyed grunt thrown in there somewhere. This reaction comes not because we don’t like talking to people about cars, but instead because they likely won’t listen to us anyway, and the one week we spend each year selecting these cars is enough work without later having to explain the results to friends and family who have inexplicably failed to subscribe to our magazine or read our interweb bleating.
We mention this as we’re preparing to once again head back to the back roads to reselect our qualified top-10 roster. For three years running, the cheapest vehicle on our list has been the Honda Fit, and so it follows that it is the best cheap car. But does it still satisfy when made slower and slightly more expensive by way of an automatic transmission?

How Much Slower, You Ask?
When we got the acceleration test results, they were all positive. That’s positive in a bad way, as in “We’re sorry, Mr. Gluckman, but the test came back positive.” With the Sport automatic, the sprint to 60 took an extra 1.4 seconds (9.9 vs. 8.5) and the quarter-mile was accomplished 1.0 second slower (17.6 vs. 16.6) at a lower speed (79 mph vs. 83). Skidpad grip and braking performance from 70 mph were basically unchanged.
Quantifiables aside, the Fit Sport’s auto is as good a unit as anyone could expect from a car of such economical purpose, with crisp shifts when the lever is in D as well as S (for Sport) mode. The Sport’s wheel-mounted paddles allow full manual operation and the ability to hold a cog right up to the 6800-rpm redline; D and S will shift at 6500 rpm, just shy of the power peak. Unlike some other manufacturers’ sporty shift modes, this transmission’s will stay way down in third when fifth would be Drive’s choice. It will also accept multiple shift requests in succession, while even some of Mercedes’ AMG transmissions require a beat between paddle thwaps. The auto’s loss of gusto isn’t unnoticeable, but the engaging qualities of this slushbox manage to retain most of the funky Fit’s fun nature.

Two Kinds of Economy
Interestingly, the Fit Sport auto is rated at the same 27 mpg city/33 highway as are manual Fits, while the plain, non-Sport auto is rated at 28/35, so there’s a small sacrifice for the fun and control of the Sport’s shift mapping. We managed 28 mpg with this example, and have previously milked 31 mpg out of a manual model.
As for the reduction in cheapness, the basic auto tacks $850 onto the bill, but to get the S mode and manual paddles you have to opt for the Sport trim, itself an additional $1560 expenditure. (Sport also adds such necessities as keyless entry, cruise control, two more speakers for the stereo, and a USB audio interface, plus aesthetic niceties like a hatch spoiler, body kit, and chrome exhaust tip; the chef recommends.) Our top-spec model also bundled navigation with stability and traction control—the only way to get that safety tech is to get nav—for an additional $1850. Even once it’s all summed up, you still can’t order a Fit from the factory for more than $20K, although dealer accessories like floor mats (all models come bereft of them) and wheels can take you past that mark.
We’d certainly recommend the manual Fit first, for the obvious enthusiast reasons. But as far as cheap cars go, the Fit Sport automatic offers the best manual substitute for commuters or the clutch-averse. So if you’re one of our friends and want new-car advice, there it is—just try not to be offended if we throw a magazine at you.

BY DAVID GLUCKMAN, PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATRICK M. HOEY www.caranddriver.com

2010 Chevrolet Equinox

Alternately titled: Signs of Life. I’ll be the first to admit I was more than a little skeptical of General Motors success post-chapter 11. After all, the company held onto many of the same execs who led the once mighty Detroit automaker straight into craptastic product hell. Fuel that fire with consumer base loathsome of any government hand outs and you’ve got a recipe for continued mediocrity. If you’re looking for evidence to the contrary, set your eyes on the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox. GM’s sturdy little crossover has gone under the knife in a big way, and much to my surprise, it came out damn fine. Hop the jump for a look at my impressions.



To really understand why I’m in such awe of a decidedly unfiendish vehicle, we need to take a look at the first generation Equinox. The definition of meh, the 2004-2009 crossover rocked some seriously uninspired styling outside. An Aztec-esque hood/fender line, goofy front grille and instantly-forgettable side profile didn’t do the ute any favors. Things weren’t much better inside, as a sea of black-grey materials and boring gauges prompted the NHTSA to issue a recall for a bore-to-death hazard. I’m kidding, of course, but just barely.


It’s somewhat fitting the Equinox would get GM’s first real redesign since the fall – kind of like stitching up major arteries before taking care of nicks and bruises. The changes start small with a redesigned key fob. Heavier and more solid-feeling than the plasticy-unit standard with the first generation vehicle, the fob uses a VW-style switch-blade key, and a textured Bow Tie is emblazoned on the back. This may not seem like a huge deal, but the quality and attention to detail isn’t something we’ve seen a whole lot of from General Motors in recent months. The theme continues throughout the rest of the vehicle.

Outside, the Equinox shirks its ho-hum looks for a little flair. The dopey front face has been replaced with the large, double-frame grille found on the Malibu, and high-intensity lamps make the crossover look more pricey than it actually is. Both sides rock serious fender arches and plenty of chrome in all the right places. Side-view mirrors, window frames and roof rails all get the shiny treatment, and sizeable 17-inch wheels are pretty snappy for a crossover. The rear of the Equinox rocks a much cleaner design over the outgoing model. The large plastic bumpers are nowhere to be found, replaced by chromed-accents and hefty exhaust tips.

All of that’s cool as can be, but pales in comparison to the crossover’s interior. Chevrolet’s stepped its game up in a huge way when it comes to materials and color options, and the Equinox is available with sweet two-tone leather seats with slick red-stitching. A newly-designed four-spoke steering wheel replaces the clunky parts-bin unit we’re used to seeing on nearly every GM product, and the center stack is handsome and well-sorted. The preponderance of buttons may be disorienting at first, but it’s better than slogging through multiple MMI tiers. Subtle LED lighting behind the center stack, in the foot wells and door handles also add a smidge of class. The Equinox is also available with a super-sharp LCD infotainment touch-screen display miles ahead of nearly every other unit we’ve seen out there.

Source. : autofiends

Video: Hairy Lotus Elise One-Make Schoolin’

The good folk at Autoblog have dug up this gem from way back in 2005. It’s a clip of Australian auto journo Dean Evans showing in the Lotus Elise one-make race. Evans starts at the back of the pack – 16th – and manages to needle his way through the entire pack in a single lap without making serious contact. What’s more, he took the checkers by fourteen seconds. Fourteen. According to the tale, the track was wet and greasy and his car wasn’t even the quickest on track. Sure as hell looks like it to us. Check it out after the jump. Fiendish.

[Source: YouTube via Autoblog]

Canyon Climbing in a Twin-Charged Lotus Exige

You’ve gotta love the American way. Where something is good, more of that something will always be better. Need proof? Have a look at Specialty Car Craft’s latest creation – a widebody Lotus Exige with the stock supercharger and a turbo. Combined effect is around 500 horsepower, and the serious meat at the rear makes sure just about all of that gusto makes it to the pavement. Think the SCC guys are tampering with perfection? Hop the jump for a look at the car clawing its way up the side of a canyon.

[Source: JONSIBAL]

The 2010 Camaro Rules the ¼ Mile Race

2010 SS Camaro My Review

The 2010 SS Camaro Rules the ¼ Mile Race

When testing the new SS Camaro, of course you have to test it against the Mustang, and the Dodge Challenger, and be able to beat them both at their own game, if you dig in to the facts, you’ll certainly find that the new 2010 SS Camaro has done just that.

Tests may very in times that the cars run between the different people who test them, my numbers will be coming from Edmund’s web site, Edmund’s tested the hottest SS Camaro that is available to the public, and it proved just hot hot it is.

My usual forte is the old muscle cars, but I just could not refuse to do an article about the new 2010 SS Camaro, since of the big three, the Camaro has always been my favorite car, the basic setup on the Edmund’s test car is as follows.

The Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual as the gearbox of choice, you get an LS3 6.2-liter V8 in the deal, which is rated at 426 HP @ 5900 RPM, and 420 FTLB of torque @ 4600 RPM, the stats certainly stack up to the Camaro of yesteryear.

This package would have a 3.45:1 rear ration installed in the car, this is a great combination for a 0-60 blast off of 4.7 seconds, not to bad if I do say so myself, it’s a 6.2 liter engine, which is rated at 22 MPG on the freeway, not bad for a hot rod.

When Edmund’s tested this car it ran a 13 second ¼ mile @ 110.9 MPH in factory street dressing, this is pretty good when compared to the Challenger R/T’s of 5.5 second 0-60 time, and it’s 13,9 second ¼ mile @ 103.2 MPH, right in front of it comes the Ford Mustang GT.

The Ford Mustang GT did a much better job then the Challenger R/T did, with a 0-60 time of 5.2 seconds, and a standing ¼ mile time of 13.5 seconds @ 102.9 MPH, but in the it’s not enough to take out the SS Camaro, Chevrolet has done a great job building this car.

Once again my pick for top new muscle car id the 2010 Camaro SS, if your looking for a car that does all of the things that a muscle car is supposed to do, right out of the box, this is without a doubt the muscle car you should look at.

Technorati Tags: 2010 Camaro Review

Who says the BMW 323i isn't a real BMW?

I do. Rather, I did. Yes, I've always been aware that the 323i shared the mandatory BMW virtures such a smooth running engine, near 50/50 weight distribution and a well tuned suspension but there was a period where I viewed the 323i as the poor man's BMW.

Perhaps that's why BMW offers a badge-delete option.

But after comparing a 2009 BMW 323i to the top-dog 328i of 10 years ago I no longer indulge in this automotive snobbery.

BMW fans will remember that BMW offered a 323i in 1999 but let's see how the current 323i compares to the top-of-the-line 3-series sedan FROM 1999.

Here are the vitals for a 1999 BMW 328i:

1999 BMW 328i
Engine: DOHC 2.5L I6
Horsepower: 190hp @ 5500rpm
Torque: 206lb/ft. @ 3500rpm
Transmission: 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic
Standard Wheels: 16" alumunum
Starting price (in 1999 dollars): $44,900

Now a look at a 2009 BMW 323i:

2009 BMW 323i
Engine: DOHC 2.5L I6
Horsepower: 200hp @ 6000rpm
Torque: 180 @ 4000rpm
Transmission: 6-speed manual (opt. 6-speed auto)
Standard Wheels: 16" alumunum
Starting price: $34,900 And the BMW 323i also comes standard with dual zone automatic climate control (not available in the 1999 328i) and the usual advancements in technology, safety, and comfort.
So what say you about the 323i?

Read Me:

2010 Ford Mustang

Although Ford's being doing it tough over the past few years, the current-generation S197-platformed Mustang has been a runaway sales hit since its launch in 2005. Now Ford is giving its reborn ponycar its first serious freshening. The basics will remain the same, but the workover will be thorough. Coupe and convertible bodystyles will still be offered, with V-6 and a variety of V-8 powertrains.

here's the shock news: We hear there is a faction at Ford seriously contemplating fitting the new twin turbo EcoBoost V-6 to the 2010 Mustang. As they try to figure out how to meet 35mpg CAFE by 2020, Ford engineers are wondering whether the V-8 has a long term future. The EcoBoost engine, which is currently scheduled to debut in a performance version of the Fusion, could be the more fuel efficient alternative for Mustang in the long term. Depending on spec, the EcoBoost is capable of up to at least 415hp, and has the torque to match a regular V-8.

Traditionalists need not worry, though - V-8s will still be very much part of the Mustang program for 2010. If the EcoBoost version does make production, Ford would probably offer it alongside the V-8, and let buyers decide which they prefer. There won't be much of a price difference, if any - although the base V-6 is a cheaper engine, by the time things like turbochargers are added it's basically V-8 money, say our sources.

Don't expect any changes in today's, base 4.0-liter V-6 offering, as its prime purpose is motivating low-end and rental-fleet Mustangs. But the Mustang GT model's V-8-currently a 4.6 liter, SOHC, three-valver-will be replaced by a new 5.0-liter engine that's essentially an evolution of the old architecture. In fact, the new 5.0 may even appear in a limited edition run-out series of current model Mustang GTs - is it finally time for the reborn Boss 302?

One Ford engineer confirmed that the work done to create the Bullitt-edition Mustang's uprated 4.6 "has a future." That engine, described in our first test story (January 2008) remains internally stock, but breathes better due to a Ford Racing open element, cold air intake system, revised mufflers, a new crank damper (which ups the redline by 250 revs), and revised fuel mapping. This engine management programming allows the use of regular fuel, but switches to a more aggressive timing curve when it detects premium in the tank. The result is 315 horsepower, up from the current GT's 300. The Bullitt's V-8 is freer and quicker revving than before, and sounds great due to the new intake. There's no reason to think the next gen GT's powerplant won't take its cue from this technology, and thus get the same tricks. Something like 325 to 350 horses out of the new 5.0-liter V-8 sounds feasible

That takes care of standard Mustang models. What about the Shelby versions?

Our intel had the 500-horsepower, supercharged 5.4-liter V-8 in the Ford Shelby GT500 pegged for a two-year or so life-that being 2007 and 2008, perhaps rolling into '09 depending on how well it sold, and what Shelby's own product plans were. Demand has proven strong, and we can confirm there'll be a Ford built, developed, and produced Shelby GT500 version of the 2010 Mustang.

Final powertrain has yet to be decided, but Ford has been testing supercharged versions of the new 5.0-liter V-8 to see whether it makes the horsepower needed. Since Chrysler and GM have potentially bigger horsepower numbers on tap for the Challenger and Camaro, Ford has to be looking at more than 500hp for its flagship Mustang. The upcoming GT500 KR punches out 540 horses, and it's our hunch this could become the standard Shelby powerplant in the short term.

Model rollout plans are still being finalized, but the current scenario is that 2009 will be an abbreviated model year, those cars being identical to the 2008. Then, the 2010s will be introduced in spring 2009, much as Ford did when it introduced the 19641/2 Mustang in April of that year, which then dovetailed into the '65. The biggest news from a design standpoint will be the addition of a muscular-looking shoulder hump just aft of the door openings. The doors remain the same, as do the roof and the fixed, triangle-shaped windows in the sail panels. The new kink is said to resemble that worn by the Dodge Charger, but a bit more flowing line. Front and rear fascias also get a tuneup. We haven't seen the new nose, but it wouldn't surprise us if it looked a little more like the current Ford Shelby GT500. Out back, the taillights are massaged a bit, and the rear bumper gets a 45 degree bevel job, adding more surface detail to the current rear's squarish lines. Expect new colors and wheel designs, too.

Taking inspiration from the Giugiaro-bodied Mustang concept show on the cover of Motor Trend a year ago (March 2007) Ford will factory-offer, as an option, a large glass roof panel that'll stretch from the windshield header to the leading edge of the rear window. It won't be a single, sweeping piece of glass as shown on the Italian-built concept for reasons of cost and structural rigidity, but the effect is much the same. The heavily tinted, fixed glass panel replaces most of the current metal roof stamping, creating an airy feeling from inside.

The interior breaks away from the current cabin, which drew inspiration from the classic 1967-1968 Mustangs. The new IP will be more driver-centric and leave more room in the center stack for a larger nav screen and audio gear. Seat fabrics and colors also will be shuffled.

What of the models (GT, GT-H, Super Snake) Shelby Automobiles builds in its Las Vegas production plant? Assuming Shelby and Ford renew their current contracts, and we're confident they will, look for these models to continue based on the updated Mustang platform, with revisions and limited-edition variants dropped in along the way.

By the middle of 2009, the new millennium version of Ford versus Chevy versus Dodge will be in full swing, with car buyers getting another bite of an apple that hasn't been ripe since 1970. The Challenger will have Hemi power, and GM has a basket full of six-to-seven liter small-block V-8s to stuff beneath the Camaro's hood. Both Mustang competitors have independent rear suspension, which is an advantage in terms of ride and handling, although the quarter-mile crowd still enjoys its live axles. But Ford has momentum on its side, as well as a convertible body style which neither Chevy nor Dodge will offer, at least at launch. Watch this space for more on the upcoming American musclecar showdown.

By Matt Stone, Mike Connor

2010 Volkswagen Golf R - Auto Shows

As you probably know, we’re fans of the Volkswagen Golf—ill-advisedly called the Rabbit in its most recent generation here in the U.S.—for its fun-to-drive character, practical packaging, and high level of refinement. As you also probably know, we’re huge fans of the extreme Golf, the GTI, which takes the fun factor and cranks it to 10Best Cars–winning levels.

Well, meet the über-Golf, the new Golf R, unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show. It picks up where the old R32 left off. But instead of a 250-hp VR6, as in the R32, the Golf R packs an upgraded version of the popular 2.0-liter, turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder that powers the GTI and a number of other VW Group cars. It is tuned to 270 hp in the Golf R, just a few ponies more than it makes in the Audi TTS, which is sold in the U.S., and in the Audi S3 and the front-wheel-drive Scirocco R, which aren’t available here.

The Golf R will again be all-wheel-drive, like both R32 models. The turbo four is lighter than the VR6—hopefully meaning this one will feel less nose-heavy—and the extra 20 hp likely will go a long way toward helping this Golf R justify its higher price point. Zero to 62 mph takes a claimed 5.7 seconds with the standard six-speed manual and just 5.5 seconds with the optional six-speed, dual-clutch gearbox. (Don’t expect U.S.-bound cars to be available with the manual; the last R32 left its stick behind in Europe and was automatic-only, as is also the case with the TTS.) But we saw the R32 run to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, so we’d expect this more powerful Golf R to probably top that time. Top speed is a governed 155 mph. Average fuel consumption is rated at 27.6 mpg in the European cycle, which, while an optimistic figure by U.S. EPA standards, likely means a significant jump over the 19 mpg we observed when testing the previous-gen R32.

The Golf R makes 258 lb-ft of torque from 2500 to 5000 rpm.

Stylistically, the Golf R doesn’t really go for modesty. Huge air intakes in the front exhibit a somewhat Audi-inspired style and set the car apart visibly from lesser Golf models, including the GTI. The rear is dominated by two large exhaust pipes placed close to the vehicle center, like on the R32. The taillights are styled with LED elements similar to those found on the new Polo and some of VW's recent concept cars. Clearly, VW is aiming to have its cars be as recognizable at night as they are in daylight. The interior is distinguished by sporty accents specific to the R as well.

The Golf R is available with two or four doors; in Europe, it costs around €10,000 more than the GTI, which seems about right considering it offers all-wheel drive and a considerable performance advantage. The best news is that we’ll get it, too. Expect a similar price gap in dollars when it comes to America, with the car likely falling in the $32,000 to $35,000 range. We can’t wait.

BY JENS MEINERS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHIAS KNÖDLER AND THE MANUFACTURER

2010 Aston Martin V12 Vantage

The 2010 Aston Martin V-12 Vantage is the perfect example of what springs from the deepest urge felt by enthusiastic automotive engineers: Stuff the biggest engine into the smallest possible body. Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez, by all accounts, is truly an enthusiastic automotive engineer.

Proof? At Porsche, he spearheaded the 989 project, a four-door that still looks so right the company won't let the prototypes come near the Panamera. Moving to BMW, Bez created the cultish Z1 roadster. He finally took the ultimate position at Aston Martin in 2000.

A Hot Rod for the Old Country
And so, Bez could not leave his smallest child, the stunningly beautiful, compact, and neatly packaged V-8 Vantage, alone. He wondered whether the 5.9-liter V-12 that powers the elegant DB9 and the more aggressive DBS would fit into the car’s engine bay. It was nearly a given, since the V-8 Vantage is based on the VH platform that also forms the foundation of the DB9 and DBS, but the smaller car was never really designed to hold the massive, Cologne-built V-12 engine.

You can see now that the transplant was successful, albeit after extensively revising the V-8 Vantage’s front structure. Nevertheless, Aston Martin managed to achieve a nearly perfect 51/49-percent front-to-rear weight balance. The extra mass of the engine, an additional 200 or so pounds, is partly offset by carbon-ceramic brakes and lighter wheels, as well as lighter seats and rear quarter-panels. The total weight of the V-12 Vantage, at around 3700 pounds, is only about 100 more pounds than the V-8 Vantage.

Messing with a Nearly Perfect Design
The V-12 Vantage retains the handsome body of its V-8–engined counterpart, but it looks more brutal ,with extra air intakes on the hood, a front splitter, a rear diffuser, and new side sills. Carbon fiber is used liberally, validating this Aston's sporting aspirations but adding a bit of visual fuss. And the 19-inch wheels clearly lack the finesse exhibited elsewhere on the car.

Inside, the Aston offers one of the most beautiful and futuristic cockpits on the market. The solid metal and glass key and a glass ashtray have become brand trademarks. The V-12 Vantage adds Alcantara and carbon-fiber elements, which look purposeful but are just as decorative as those in certain Mercedes-AMG and Porsche offerings.

The Aston Martin V-12 Vantage, in Germany, elevates the price from €115,150 for the V-8 Vantage to €169,500, or about the same as the DB9. (Converted to greenbacks, it costs $247,000.) Only 1000 will be made, but we have no doubt that this Aston Martin, the most satisfactory currently on the road and perhaps ever, will hold its ground well against competitors such as the Porsche 911 GT2 and GT3 and the Lamborghini Gallardo. Well, in Europe, that is, since we can’t get it in the States. Pity

This extra weight is effortlessly neutralized by the V-12's 510 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, available at 6500 rpm and 5750 rpm, respectively. The engine is tuned the same as in the larger DBS and thus catapults this relatively tiny coupe into a completely different league. We pedaled a DBS to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds—a time identical to that posted by the V-8 Vantage.

Aston claims the sprint from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.2 seconds in the V-12 Vantage, so we expect it would become the fastest Aston ever were we to test it—well, the fastest until the One-77 goes on sale. Top speed is now 190 mph, up from 180 for the V-8. However, what really makes the difference is the incredible agility and responsiveness of the engine.

The V-12 Vantage charges forward with brutal force inconceivable in the V-8, or even in the DB9 and DBS. Those two bigger and heavier models dilute the raw punch provided by this powerhouse. Too, the combination of the Vantage’s lower seating position, more compact dimensions, firmer suspension, and louder exhaust adds a massive dose of excitement. Unlike other Astons, the V-12 Vantage gives you a comfortable power margin to take on pretty much any Porsche 911, and have the occasional BMW M3 as a snack.

Torque is plentiful across the rev band, and the engine’s soundtrack is pure music. The power is transmitted to the rear wheels by means of a smooth-shifting six-speed manual transmission, still the best solution for a sports car targeting avid enthusiasts. The automated manual transmission available in the other Aston Martin models isn't even offered here.

BY JENS MEINERS, PHOTOGRAPHY BY MATTHIAS KNÖDLER

The Bugatti 16 C Galibier concept

As the climax of its centenary celebration ceremonies, Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. presented customers and opinion-makers with the Bugatti 16 C Galibier concept, intended to be the most exclusive, elegant, and powerful four door automobile in the world last weekend in Molsheim. At the historic site where Ettore Bugatti once laid the cornerstone of his company, Bugatti’s current president, Dr. Ing. Franz-Josef Paefgen emphasised that the Galibier is one of several concept studies with which the company is considering for the future of the Bugatti marque.

Art - Forme - Technique: those are the brand values to which Ettore Bugatti and his son Jean oriented themselves in order to develop even more powerful engines and even more noble body designs for each new model, which were without equal in quality, handling, speed and elegance. In the process, they experimented again and again without compromise with new materials; thus was Bugatti one of the first manufacturers to use aluminium parts for bodies, engine blocks and wheels.

Art - Forme - Technique are also the brand values to which the design and engineering team of Bugatti Automobiles S.A.S. oriented themselves in the development of the Galibier. With this new four-door concept car, Bugatti assumes anew a leading role in the use of new material combinations. Thus the body is constructed of handmade carbon fibre parts coloured dark blue so that, when illuminated, the woven structure shimmers through strikingly. Carbon fibre not only possesses unusually great rigidity but is also especially light. The wings and doors are out of polished aluminium.

The Galibier’s design masters the challenge of uniting sportiness with the comfort and elegance of a modern four-door saloon. The basic architecture picks up on the torpedo-like character of the Type 35, which was already revived in the Veyron, and reinterprets it. With the typical Bugatti radiator grille, big round LED headlights and the clamshell running the length of the vehicle which became synonymous with the brand identity under Jean Bugatti in the Type 57, this car transports the Bugatti genes into the modern worldBeneath the bonnet, which folds back from both sides, there resides a 16-cylinder, 8-litre engine with twostage supercharging. What makes this engine special is that it was developed as a flex-fuel engine and can optional be run on ethanol. Four-wheel drive, specially developed ceramic brakes and a new suspension design enable the agile, always-sure handling of a saloon of this size.

The interior reflects the elemental design of the exterior. The dash panel has been reduced to the essential; two centrally located main instruments keep even the rear passengers constantly informed of the actual speed and previous performance. Parmigiani, the Swiss maker of fine watches, created the removable Reverso Tourbillon clock for the Galibier, which may be worn on the wrist thanks to a cleverly designed leather strap.

“Galibier” is not just the name of one of the most difficult alpine passes along the Tour de France but, in its time, was a version of the four door Type 57 unequalled in sportiness and elegance.

Toyota iQ puts on the style at Frankfurt

Diminutive but distinctive, Toyota’s iQ is capturing the spotlight at the Frankfurt motor show with two bold new design studies that further prove responsible, sub-100g/km motoring doesn’t have to be dull.

iQ, the world’s smallest four-seat production car, is already a head-turner on the street with its thoroughly contemporary and compact styling.

Now Toyota is revealing the car’s potential for customisation, with street-cool body kits and vibrant interiors.

iQ CollectioniQ Collection focuses on the cabin, with the white pearl finish of the body carried through to trim details such as the centre console, instrument binnacle and door panels.

The leather upholstery is a matching white shade, with a central seat panel design exclusive to the show model. The fully glazed roof makes for an exceptionally light and bright interior.

iQ for SportsiQ for Sports is all about urban street style with a bespoke body kit that accentuates iQ’s broad stance, powerful geometry and clean, sweeping lines.

The car rides on custom-made 18-inch alloys and features aero-headlamps with high-intensity LED driving lights for an unmistakable “look-at-me” appearance. There is also a rear roof spoiler and a trapezoidal central exhaust, further emphasising iQ’s potential for personalisation.

The radical styling continues on the inside with illuminated door handles, a swivelling spotlight on top of the dash, an illuminated iQ logo and trim panels crafted in raw nickel and aluminium.

The seats are finished in bright green and grey upholstery, with contrasting bolsters in a matt-black scuba-style polyurethene, and the headlining is also a vibrant green.

On-board entertainment and navigation are controlled by a 10-inch LCD touch-screen, with DVD playback and music library functions.

2011 BMW X1

But before the big show at the end of Frankfurt Motor Show will begin in September, up to this. We will update new car. To launch the event together. The first cars that used to visit each of the camps is a blue blade car BMW X1 SUV with brand-new to the reserve who have to fly to see. To know prior to that. How should heed this

From the same blue and white propeller camps BMW X1 SUV or small end of the camp. Source codes E84 and development body based on the same X3 (code E83), using the drive system and engine together, the X1 is condescending to lower market share X3 The hope shared by the main customers of S. U. V a Volkswagen Tiguan and the Honda CR - V with a set price for a little more expensive. And represents Tadhnga establish this group's Audi Q3 vehicle models with a detailed look different from the original introduction to the Paris Motor Show 2008 is only slightly. With small external dimensions 1,798 x 4,454 x 1,545 mm, slightly smaller than the X3.

1 petrol engines with diesel 3 starts xDrive 28i petrol pump 6 hp 3.0 liter 258 torque 31.6 Kk.-m. followed by 3 diesel models completely sDrive, xDrive 18d Engine 4 Turbo pump 2.0 liter 143 hp variable torque 32.6 kg. .- m sDrive, xDrive 20d with a 18d, but moved to 177 hp hp torque increase is 35.6 with a final Kk.-m. diesel engine, the force most xDrive 23d blocked chest pump 4 new 204 hp torque 40.7 kg. .- m. Both systems are powered rear wheel drive 2 (sDrive) and 4-wheel drive at any time (xDrive) in the market.

In Europe, it would open this year's sales in less than X-3 7-11% approximately 27,000 to 41,500 euros, the major markets like the U.S. must wait until the year 2011 those.

Source www.autoblog.com.

Toyota hybrid to Mazda

Toyota to supply hybrid parts to Mazda TOKYO -- Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corp plans to supply core components for hybrid vehicles to smaller rival Mazda Motor Corp, the Nikkei business daily reports.

The components will be used in a hybrid vehicle Mazda is planning to launch as early as 2013, with a sales target of some 100,000 units a year, the Nikkei said.

Under the deal Toyota will supply batteries, motors, control units, and other components made by group parts makers to Mazda, the paper said.

According to the paper, Mazda approached Toyota with the request for the hybrid components adding that an announcement on the alliance is expected soon.

A spokeswoman at Toyota and a spokesman at Mazda said they were checking the report.

The Mazda spokesman added that the Hiroshima-based carmaker, affiliated with Ford Motor, has officially been mulling various options on hybrid car technology, including outsourcing its development instead of developing it on its own or with Ford.

Mazda has not said it would launch a hybrid car in 2013, he said Read more

Story by : KSSN

What Do the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid Have in Common?

What Do the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, Toyota Camry Hybrid and Mercury Mariner Hybrid Have in Common?

Other than the fact that they’re all hybrids, obviously. UPDATE: Answer after the jump.
All three vehicles are previous winners of the GCOTY or Green Car of the Year Award, presented at the LA Auto Show by GreenCar.com (pedants not welcome). You want to talk about methodology? They want to talk about methodology. Only they’re description isn’t like to be enough for you, a member of TTAC’s Best and Brightest.
Green Car Journal staff [not listed on the website] narrow down all of the eligible vehicles to the five finalists based upon research and the driving experience. All current models running on conventional and alternative fuels are eligible for consideration. ‘Newness’ is a factor, as is a vehicle’s market significance. Finalist vehicles must be readily available to consumers during the award year. Concept, prototype, and fleet-only vehicles are not considered . . .
The winning vehicle is chosen by a select jury of highly knowledgeable experts drawn from relevant fields such as transportation technology, automotive design, environmental protection, and others. Notable past jurors have included leaders of the nation’s most recognized environmental groups, such as the Sierra Club, Ocean Futures Society, and Natural Resources Defense Council as well as automotive icons such as Carroll Shelby and television personality Jay Leno.
The members of this year’s jury, like this year’s winner, must be left to your imagination.

By Robert Farago

Volvo C30

The Volvo C30 is a small car produced by Volvo Cars, a subsidiary of the Ford Motor Company. The C30 is a three-door, four-seat hatchback powered by straight-4 and straight-5 engines. The car is a hatchback version of the S40/V50/C70 range, and uses the same Ford C1 (or Volvo P1) platform.

It is being marketed as a premium hatchback or "sports coupe" specially designed for first-time Volvo buyers and the youth market. Production is expected to be 65,000 units a year, 75% for sale in the European market.

The exterior design of the C30 is based on the 2001 SCC concept car, which was inspired by the 1800ES, the estate adaptation of the P1800 Coupe. According to Simon Lamarre, chief studio designer, "the 1800ES has become one of the icons for Volvo," [1] inspiring the design of the Volvo C30.[1]

The production car was officially unveiled at the 2006 Paris Motor Show.[2]
The interior design is similar to the S40 & V50: the majority of parts including the instrument panel, 'floating' centre stack and steering wheel are shared by the three cars.

Read me :

2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid 4 Door Sedan New

Step inside the future cars section of Motor Trend online to view the latest concept vehicles, camry hybrid spy photos and our famed Future Vehicle Forecast. This unofficial guide will show you which new cars will be released with significant improvements and style changes. Use Cars Information, BMW, Camry, Chevrolet, Ford, Isuzu, Mazda, Nissan, Toyota, Volvo and bad credit car loan, New Civic 2009 and Car in Cars refinancing.

The 2009 Camry Hybrid is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in one trim only, the 4-Door Sedan....Upon introduction, the Camry Hybrid is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4 , 192-horsepower, hybrid engine that achieves 33-mpg in the city and 34-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.The 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid 4-Door Sedan is a carryover from 2008. 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid 4-Door Sedan

Story by : KSSN

FORD NEW

Ford Wixom Assembly vehicle wins new plant on the life of RENEWABLE ENERGY PARK.

WIXOM, Mich., Sept. 10, 2009 – Ford Motor Company today joined Xtreme Power of Austin, Texas, and Clairvoyant Energy of Santa Barbara, Calif., to announce that the idled Wixom Assembly Plant will be transformed into one of the nation's largest renewable energy manufacturing parks.

• Ford Motor Company's Wixom Assembly Plant will be idled will be converted into one of the largest parks in the country's renewable energy production
  
• Ford has reached an agreement in principle to sell Wixom Assembly Plant to Xtreme Power of Austin, Texas, and Clairvoyant Energy of Santa Barbara, Calif., which will manufacture energy storage systems and high-efficiency solar panels at the site
  
• Clairvoyant Energy and Xtreme Power plan an initial investment of $725 million to redevelop the 320-acre site and its 4.7 million square feet of plant space. The renewable energy manufacturing park is expected to create more than 4,000 jobs on site and in the surrounding area, as well as support thousands of indirect jobs
  
• For the past nine months, Ford has with Clairvoyant Energy, Power Xtreme and plans of state and local officials on a redevelopment Wixom Assembly to be held responsible for important economic development for Michigan, which is consistent with the partnership, "Ford's commitment to environmental sustainability
  
• Read more.

New Cars - New Technology

Exciting Future Of Automobiles

New technologies will improve fuel efficiency, increase safety, aid navigation and repair.

Bend Bohn, of the German auto components company, Robert Bosch Corporation, recently predicted that internal combustion engines will continue to dominate the automotive market well into the 21st Century. Automotive manufacturers have invested considerable time and effort in attempt to improve fuel efficiency in these engines, and they have been successful. In fact the U.S.A. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), estimates engines have become 30 percent more fuel-efficient over the past 15 years than previously. However the gains have been offset by the introduction of increasingly bigger and more powerful engines. The average engine in the present industry is 63 percent more powerful than 20 years ago.

John Heywood, Director of the Sloan Automotive Laboratory at Massachusetts Institute of Technology, estimates new technology will reduce fuel consumption by a third by 2020 and a half by 2030. Gasoline-electric hybrid vehicles and modern diesel engines are significantly more fuel efficient than their gasoline counterparts, but new technology in gasoline engines is also expected to reduce fuel consumption.

Next year, General Motors will begin introducing displacement on demand technology in their engines, reducing fuel consumption by eight percent by using only half their cylinders during most normal driving. GM predicts another 7 to 11 percent in fuel savings can be achieved through use of continuously variable automatic transmissions.

More advanced variable valve controls, already in the works at BMW, are expected to further increase fuel savings, while Bosch has recently developed it Direct-Start system. The system allows the engine to shut off while idling, but it instantly restarts as soon as the driver touches the gas pedal, igniting the combustion mixture in the fuel injections system without engaging the starter motor. Bosch predicts fuel savings of 5 percent with the Direct-Start system.

New and exciting automotive technology goes far beyond fuel economy improvements. Ive been involved [with auto research] for more than 30 years, and theres more action and more promise for improvement now than Ive ever seen, says Heywood.

New technology expected to hit the marketplace within the next decade:

1) Active safety systems will include radar and cameras that watch for danger. Weve put airbags just about every place you can. Says Toyota Product-planning Manager, John Weiner, Within the next five years the car will use algorithms to anticipate hazards and intervene or warn the driver.

2) Keyless entry has already been implemented on certain Cadillac, Infinity and BMW models and will be introduced to approximately 40 different vehicles in the next three years. Credit card style systems will replace car keys.

3) Navigation systems such as computer-like screens on the dash, displaying navigation systems that employ global positioning satellite and onboard DVDs to provide the driver with distractions, maps, and information on businesses such as hotels, hospitals and restaurants. The video screens will also have the capability to connect to PDAs and cellular phones.

4) Wi-Fi hook-ups in almost every vehicle will provide weather, news, and other information. Were going to see hot spots in places like gas stations and restaurants, says Peter Wengert, marketing manager for automotive products at Microsoft.

5) Data collection will give vehicles the capability to collect pertinent data that can be shared with dealers, manufacturers, and other vehicles helping service personnel perform remote diagnostics and help troubleshoot for a broken down motorist.

6) Onboard cameras will help detect blind spots, while helping parents watch their kids. Many recreational vehicles already have this technology at the rear and in front to see around corners.

7) 40 Volt Electrical Systems will become standard to accommodate the many new electric devices.

8) Voice commands are already in certain BMWs, Jaguar and Lexus models and will become common and necessary in order to operate the various functions in cars.

9) Electronic pedals already in use in Mercedes, Chevy Corvette and all recent Audi vehicles, brake-by-wire and accelerate by wire pedals send an electronic signal rather than activating a physical connection to the engine and brakes. Emergency brake handles will also be replaced by electronic controls.

10) Programmable vehicles will let you use electronics to express your choice of vehicle you wish to drive, says Stanford professor of mechanical engineering Chris Gerdes. You can have it be as sporty or luxurious, as you choose. Drivers of the new Audi A8, for example can change the cars ride by raising and lowering road clearance.

Submitted by: Amsoil Inc. Dealer Rudy Hiebert
www.lubedealer.com/hiebert

Content Source: Amsoil Incs Direct Line, by permission.

Rudy Hiebert has been a Dealer with Amsoil Inc. for more than fourteen years. After application of the Internet to his marketing strategy, business activity has paralled the ballooning revenue of the corporation, which has been double digets. People are using and selling Amsoil 's synthetic lubricants all over North America with the help of Abbotford's Amsoil Dealer, Rudy Hiebert. His web site is www.lubedealer.com/hiebert where more Amsoil information can be accessed.

The New Mercedes Benz E320 CDI

The New Mercedes Benz E320 CDI Now the Worlds Most Successful Luxury Car Line Maintained by Superior Performance Benz Performance Parts

Equipped with the latest innovative diesel technology, the E320 CDI has 201 hp and 369 lb-ft. of torque, enough to propel the car to 100 km/h on the test track in just 7.0 seconds. Good performance, low exhaust emissions, great fuel economy and low noise levels this latest generation of electronically injected CDI engines is changing consumers' dated perceptions about diesel engines.

Like all diesels, the E320 CDI gets great fuel mileage and has increased cruising range over a comparable gasoline-powered car. What's more important, the E320 CDI will do that without sacrificing performance. The E320 CDI gets 8.9/5.9 l/100km for city and highway driving, respectively, while virtually equaling the acceleration of the gasoline V6. Thanks to its CDI electronic fuel injection, even the usual diesel engine sound is muted. From inside the vehicle at idle, the E320 CDI registers just 44 decibels. For comparison: An average doorbell produces about 75 decibels.

The double-wishbone of the E320 CDI front suspension is similar to that of the S-Class, and its patented five-link rear suspension provides unparalleled wheel motion control.

The E320 CDI comes standard with four-zone climate control that allows different temperature settings for the rear outboard passengers as well as the driver and front passenger. A long list of standard equipment include power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power windows with one-touch up/down operation and auto-dimming mirrors. A power flip-down panel in the centre console opens to reveal extra storage space or the optional six-disc CD changer.

The standard COMAND display, which can be fitted with an optional DVD-based navigation system, also includes a nine-speaker audio system with surround sound. An optional harman/kardon LOGIC7 system takes high performance audio to a new level with seven-channel digital surround sound, 420 Watts of total output and 12 high-end speakers.

Several options are: The Keyless Go system, which allows the driver to unlock the car simply by touching the door handle, and to start the car by touching the gearshift knob. The Parktronic parking assistance system uses ultrasound waves to detect obstacles in front of or behind the car, and warns the driver of detected objects

Mercedes-Benz' pioneering role in modern diesel engine development is likely to play a key role in the company's future products that could include hybrids, advanced piston engines and fuel cells.

Parts train manufactures and sells aftermarket performance products and accessories for Toyota vehicles. Partstrain strives to be the ultimate source for performance products and accessories for most Toyota. Now that the Camry is going to be produced in the U.S., Parts train strives for Toyota Aftermarket and Replacement Parts and Performance Parts excellence.

Parts Train's product line-up for Mercedes Benz cars includes Engine system, Electrical system, Header, Exhaust, Hoods, Hubcaps, multiple Body Kit designs, Suspension, Condensers, Bumpers, Radiator Support, Spoiler, Catalytic Converter, and a variety of additional upgrades that compliment the car. Visit http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/MERCEDES_BENZ to browse on all its top of the line Toyota parts. All Toyota auto parts are new and guaranteed to fit with only the highest quality Toyota replacement parts available.

About the author:
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

Lexus GS 450h: Full Hybrid Technology Revs Up With Superior Toyota Aftermarket Parts

Lexus GS 450h: Full Hybrid Technology Revs Up With Superior Toyota Aftermarket Parts

The 2007 Lexus GS 450h is the world's first hybrid luxury sedan and the first full hybrid vehicle with a front engine and rear wheel drive.

'Once again, we've applied our formula of no compromise engineering - this time to a luxury sport sedan which proves to us that hybrid power trains can work superbly in virtually any application,' said Lexus Vice President of Marketing Mark Templin. 'It's very important to continue pursuing substantial reductions in fuel consumption and emissions, while continuing to improve performance and driving pleasure. Our customers wouldn't have it any other way.

It will be a rear wheel drive full hybrid making it able to travel at low speeds under electric propulsion alone. Lexus says the GS 450h will have gas mileage similar to the average 2-liter, 4-cylinder compact sedan.

The Lexus GS 450h is a Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle. A SULEV-rated vehicle is 90% cleaner than the average new car.

The GS 450h will have a 3.5-liter V6 engine combined with a high-output electric motor--all driving the rear wheels--to pack horsepower at the level of a V8 engine. Lexus says it will have horsepower equivalent to a 4.5 liter V8. 0-60 acceleration is expected to be less than 6 seconds. For perspective, the 2006 GS 430 has a 4.3-liter V8 that has 300 horsepower.

It's built on the GS 430 platform and offers similar standard equipment and options, including a sunroof and perforated leather seats. It is visually identical to the GS 430, except for a large air dam on the front bumper to cool the electric motor, a power meter on the dashboard instead of an odometer, and 18-inch light-alloy wheels.

Hybrid technology, driving dynamics, motoring comfort and generous space inside redefines the new Lexus GS450h. Featuring more powerful and fuel efficient engines, innovative assistance systems, a wide range of safety features, as well as a superior standard of equipment, the new Toyota Lexus of today need no less than superior BMW replacement parts when the need arises.
This is where Parts Train comes in. Having a vast array of well crafted Toyota Replacement Parts, Performance Parts, Aftermarket Parts to choose from its online store at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/TOYOTA available 24 hours a day to serve your most demanding auto parts needs. Excellence is synonymous to service for all of Parts Train's customer service staff in dealing with all of your auto parts inquiries.

About the author:
Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

Replacement Parts For The Mercedes Benz S Class Hybrid Sedan

The combination of electric drive with the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission ensures that the S-Class "Hybrid" constantly operates at the optimum level. "This reduces fuel consumption by 15 to 25 percent depending on the driving cycle, while at the same time enhancing comfort," says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of the Vehicle Body and Drive Systems Directorate at DaimlerChrysler AG.

The combination of electric drive with the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission ensures that the S-Class "Hybrid" constantly operates at the optimum level. "This reduces fuel consumption by 15 to 25 percent depending on the driving cycle, while at the same time enhancing comfort," says Prof. Herbert Kohler, Head of the Vehicle Body and Drive Systems Directorate at DaimlerChrysler AG.

Combining a V8 diesel engine with the latest generation of hybrid drive systems developed jointly by DaimlerChrysler and General Motors, Mercedes Benz introduces the S Class Hybrid, which unlike many conventional hybrids, the system dispenses with a torque converter; this is replaced by the hybrid-specific components. The hybrid concept is based on the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission in combination with the P1/2 hybrid transmission, which thanks to its compact dimensions does not restrict interior space.
"The use of the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission makes for a comfort level that is unique in the world of hybrids," emphasized Weber. "Shifting is even faster and more convenient in continuously variable mode."

Setting a new record for cars with hybrid drive system, the S Class has a maximum output of 340 horsepower. The two electric motors have a combined output of 70 horsepower. The diesel can be started at any time without transition, independently of driving mode. The V8 diesel engine recharges the battery while the vehicle is in motion while energy is recovered during braking. The hybrid concept is based on the 7G-Tronic automatic transmission in combination with the P1/2 hybrid transmission, which thanks to its compact dimensions does not restrict interior space. The system dispenses with a torque converter; this is replaced by the hybrid-specific components.

All genuine quality Mercedes Benz fuel tanks, spoiler, radiator, electrical parts, engine parts, hood, hubcaps, condenser, bumper, catalytic converter, exhaust, fender, grille to name a few are available to you in great discounts and wholesale deals at Partstrain

The proven reliability of our genuine and quality Mercedes auto parts keeps customer loyalty for years. Browse our online shop http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/MERCEDES_BENZ and find dependable, long lasting Mercedes replacement parts, performance parts, body parts etc. It could be the start of great savings for you while maintaining the high performance of the Benz.

About the Author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowaand has a knack for research on cars and anythingand everything about it. She works full time as aMarket Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliersin the country today.

Hybrid Technology Develops As The Honda Accord Hybrid

The company that popularizes the hybrid technology is producing the better hybrid vehicles year after year. Although Toyota starts the technology to their Prius in 1997, Honda produces, develops, and uses the technology continuously to their cars. Hondas first hybrid car, the Honda Insight was released in the United States in 1999. This was soon followed by the Honda Civic which marked the radical change in the hybrid technology and changed the way peoples to a car.

The company that popularizes the hybrid technology is producing the better hybrid vehicles year after year. Although Toyota starts the technology to their Prius in 1997, Honda produces, develops, and uses the technology continuously to their cars. Hondas first hybrid car, the Honda Insight was released in the United States in 1999. This was soon followed by the Honda Civic which marked the radical change in the hybrid technology and changed the way peoples to a car.

Hybrid cars use the combination of technologies such as internal combustion engines (ICEs), electric motors, batteries, hydrogen, and fuel cells. This saves a lot of gas fuel that becomes the preference of car buyers.

The hybrid technology improves year after year as Hondas hybrid vehicles become popular. Then, the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid is by far the best Honda hybrid, or hybrid vehicle in the market.

A 3.0l V-6 engine of the Accord is the biggest among its class. It is the first hybrid that can match or even surpass other gas-engine vehicles. With 255 horses pushing it, the Accord is the most economical V-6 vehicle.

The 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid drives like the conventional gas-engine powered vehicle. And without the hybrid badges on the vehicle, you wouldnt know the difference.

This Accord uses the same automatic transmission like that of the gas-engine instead of the continuously variable transmission (CVT), Toyota and Ford uses to their hybrid. Its so the IMA or the integrated motor assist which always at the gas mode and kick to electric for additional power when needed, unlike Ford and Toyota which uses the electric as long as possible then switch to gas when needed.

Fuel economy is not a question for the Honda Accord Hybrid. With 37 mpg fuel consumption on highway and 29 mpg in city, the Accord allows driver to save more money. Accord doesnt need to be plugged in. It automatically recharge itself during braking and, if necessary, via the gas engine. To save more fuel, both systems automatically shuts off at stoplight and long stops.

The only backslash of the 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid is its price tag of about $30,000 which is $3,400 more that its gas model. But for a vehicle that saves more fuel the regular vehicle, it is a better buy in the long run.

The 2005 Honda Accord Hybrid can be seen on http://www.partstrain.com/ along with other Honda vehicles. For more information about the vehicle, and to purchase Honda part, visit http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA .

About the Author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

The All-new 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid And Parts, The First Hybrid Vehicle Of Its Class

After Toyotas introduction of the Prius, the first hybrid vehicle, in 1997 which was followed by the debut of Honda Insight two years later in America, General Motors adopted the Hybrid technology to their vehicle with the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid. The introduction the Escape Hybrid is the first entry of any American vehicle in the market. As to Fords pioneering model, the Escape is produced on a limited number. 2004 brought only 3000-4000 units of Ford Escape which began its production in late July. About 16,000 to 17,000 units are scheduled to be on the production line in 2005 but with the demand increasingly high, the number might increase.

As the law of supply and demand applies to the Escape, buyers will not get any discounts and rebates for this high-priced SUV ranging from $26,970 for Front Wheel Drive which can reach up to $33,000 for a fully optioned vehicle to $28,595 for the All-Wheel Drive. They have to settle to the idea that they are one of the few owners of this first of its kind SUV.

The 2005 Ford Escape runs on a 4-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive system to deliver the performance of a V-6. It is typically an electric car that uses electric power engine to operate. Unlike other hybrid vehicles like Honda Accord which uses IMA or the integrated motor assist which always at the gas mode and kick to electric for additional power when needed, the Ford Escape use electric as long as possible then switch to gas when needed. The electric motor can reach the peak of up to 70 kilowatts for an additional of 93hp.

The American hybrid requires no plug. The battery is a sealed nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rated at 330 volts, which automatically recharges during long stops or when the gas-engine is running. Its battery performance is like the typical V-6 in terms of speed and acceleration. It uses the electronically controlled, continuously variable transmission (eCVT), which harnesses internal combustion and electric power sources to drive the wheels. Fuel economy increases by 75% in city driving, consuming at about, 36 mpg in city driving and 31 mpg on the highway, better than what Ford expected.

For more information about the 2005 Ford Escape Hybrid, or to its purchase parts, visit http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/FORD . You can also check out other Ford models like the Ford Aerostar, Aspire, Bronco, Club, Contour, Country, Courier, Clestline, Escort, Expedition, F-series, and other ford vehicles.

About the Author: Jenny McLane is a 36 year old native of Iowa and has a knack for research on cars and anything and everything about it. She works full time as a Market Analyst for one of the leading car parts suppliers in the country today.

Don't be Gas Dependent - Choose a Hybrid

Gas prices have sky-rocketed over the past 5 years. Due to the greatly increased prices, it can take as much as $50 and $60 dollars to fill a tank with gasoline, an amount never dreamt of a few years ago. Americans have been dependent on gas for many decades, and with supplies of this non-renewable resource diminishing and the pollution conventional vehicles put into the environment, the auto industry has had to look for solutions to the problems associated with gas dependency. The main solution is the hybrid car, a fuel-efficient, environmentally-safe vehicle. A hybrid car has two engines--a gasoline and electric engine.

Excellent Range

Hybrid cars are becoming more and more diverse. Those who are considering purchasing a hybrid car now have many options to choose from. Toyota, Honda, and Ford, among others, currently produce hybrid cars. Sales in the United States of hybrid cars made by Toyota and Honda have been certainly on the up over the past few years. The most recent Statistics suggest that nearly 8,000 hybrid cars were sold in 2004. This was almost 0.53% of the total U.S. car sales in 2004.

Significant Sales Increases predicted

It is also predicted that sales of hybrid cars will reach 535,000 in 2011, which would be over half of all U.S. auto sales. All major auto manufacturers like General Motors, Ford, Honda, Toyota and others, will be producing and releasing more hybrid cars and trucks and in coming years, the production of hybrid cars and trucks could match or exceed the production of traditional trucks and cars.

Why are hybrid cars becoming popular?

It's not just because of the rising gas prices, but also because of environmental issues and a need to reduce significantly Co2 emissions that hybrids are better for the environment. Hybrid cars use less gasoline and emit fewer pollutants in the air than traditional cars resulting in substantially less pollution in the air.

Don't be scared off ? think long-term

Many potential hybrid buyers are scared off because of the higher hybrid price. . When you consider the fact that purchasing a hybrid will mean less money spent on gas and less pollution, the hybrid is well-worth the extra money initially spent. Also, most, if not all, hybrids in the U.S. qualify for a tax break that can shave thousands off the price of the hybrid.

An Example

Are you still not sure that hybrid car is right for you? Let's look at an example. A Honda Civic gas-based car costs $15,000 in the U.S. The Honda Civic hybrid car costs $19,000. That is a $4,000 price difference.

The Honda Civic gas-based car gets 36 mpg in the city. A Honda Civic hybrid car gets 48 mpg in the city. If the price of gas is roughly the same as it is now($2.20 a gallon), and the car racks up 15,000 miles a year, it will cost $4,900 less dollars for the Civic hybrid car than the Civic gas-based car. Essentially, you get back your money after a year, and every following year, you save more money. After factoring in the tax break, you're saving even more money. All of this makes the hybrid car very appealing.

Toby Russell & his website: http://www.hybridcarlatest.com/ offers news, advice and information covering this fast developing market.