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BMW X1 Review and Specifications

2011-03-15T03:26:00.000-07:00

By Girish Kadu

BMW has recently launched model BMW X1 in India. It is the cheapest and smallest SUV from the company. The car is based on the on the 3-series platform. It is priced at 22-30 lakhs. The price tag is playing a crucial role for the SUV. The middle class families are happy to buy a luxury SUV. But the upper class people are saying this model will not meet Company's standards. Compare to other models of the company it looks dull. The company is now targeting to grab middle class customers. Its Chennai plant is manufacturing the engine of this SUV. It is available in petrol and diesel versions.

Models - It comes with 3 models i.e. Cool Elegance, High-line and corporate edition in India.

Shades - It comes with eye-catching colors like Marrakesh Brown, Space Grey, and Sparkling Bronze, Tasman Titanium Silver, Vermilion Red, Black Sapphire, Cashmere Silver, Deep Sea Blue and Graphite Blue.

Exterior - It is an SUV but looks too small. The exterior of the SUV is smartly designed. It can rob the customers' hearts by its exterior features. Halogen headlights and round shape front fog lamps, body colored door handles, Panorama Glass and 17 inch light alloy wheels heated and automatic adjustable Outside Rear View Mirrors (ORVM) will make the car even more sporty. But compare to earlier product it looks tedious.

Interior - Compared to earlier versions of the Company it is missing many features like bells and whistles which include sunroof, CD-changer etc. Other than that everything remains same. Even after missing some features it can still provides safety and comfort for the customers. The seats are good which can be manually adjustable. Dual toned dashboard with AC vents at the both sides looks awesome in the car. It has sufficient storage place to carry your treasures with excelling lighting options like ambient lighting, illuminated glove compartment, Illumination for vanity mirrors, illuminated luggage front foot well lights, courtesy lights front and rear compartment,, front and rear reading lights with velour's floor mats. Overall it is not so good not so bad.

Engine - It is packed with turbocharger, variable intake geometry and common-rail fuel injection in 1955cc four-cylinder. The petrol version of this SUV can generate maximum power of150 BHP with a torque of 200 Nm at 3600 rpm. The diesel version of this SUV can produce utmost power of 177 BHP and torque of 350 Nm from 1750 to 3000 rpm. It is mated with six speed automatic transmission gearbox which gives enough power to ride.

Safety - It promises the security for customers with its safety features like Rain sensor, ABS (Anti lock Braking System), dual front airbags and side ITS head airbags for front and rear both, central locking, crash sensor, front and rear fog lamps, halogen headlamps, front and rear seat belts with pretensioners and belt force limiter, side impact protection and Xenon lights, etc.

Know more about BMW X1 and get the best deals in Used Cars.

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Kia Forte - The Car That Everybody Desires

2011-03-01T02:20:00.000-08:00

By Alfred Bruno

The 2011 Kia Forte is the latest happening on the front. Powered by electricity but not tethered as you would imagine to power outputs, this car does everything that gasoline driven cars does and even more. It is the 2011 Motor trend Car of the Year and is exactly what the car-crazy generation of today was waiting for.

Though powered by electricity, the 2011 Kia Forte can drive on gas as well without any emissions. However, if long drives are what pumps you up, then a gas powered on-board generator comes into the act and can take you wherever you desire to go. A superior volt battery is the backbone of Kia Forte. The battery is subjected to vigorous tests that include testing for corrosion and weather variations. The battery is guaranteed to give you a highly impressive 100,000 mile or an 8-year warranty.

The Kia Forte comes with a thermal cooling and heating system that keeps the battery at manageable levels of temperature as it is charged and discharged. While the Kia Forte is not the first electric car in the market and will certainly not be the last, but it certainly is the best one to hit the U.S markets. It is promising, practical and most importantly meets the needs of its customers. The car runs on electricity for an initial range of 35 miles after which an onboard gas generator takes over and takes it ahead for another 340 miles by creating electricity from a full tank of gas.

Two LCD screens on the dashboard display speed, battery power, the range to recharge and the efficiency gauge in real time. A high-resolution screen with touch screen control helps in managing the vehicle on road. You can program the charging schedule as per your needs and based on the electricity rate plans.

Every component in the Kia Forte is designed to change the way you use your car. Optimum output from every single component ensures that the 2011 Kia Forte offers full value for money every time you take the car out on the roads. The car has the perfect aerodynamics to provide the maximum mileage per charge and per gallon which is further enhanced by a closed grille and efficiently designed back edges. While running on electricity the Volt can reach a top speed mph of 100 mph.

The Kia Forte is without doubt the car of the future. It is just the automobile that America was waiting for.

An ideal dealer of the best Kia vehicles in Greer, we provide you best Kia maintenance, Kia repairs, along with other added profitable deals on Kia parts. Take full advantage of our Kia repairs in South Carolina.

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BMW Vision ConnectedDrive

2011-02-22T02:53:00.000-08:00

Watch the revealing of the BMW Vision ConnectedDrive and visit the car at the Geneva International Motor Show 2011.

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All new Fiat 500 with TwinAir 85 HP Two-Cylinder Engine

2011-02-07T04:13:00.000-08:00

All new Fiat 500 with TwinAir 85 HP Two-Cylinder Engine

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Volkswagen Polo Price and Variants

2011-01-17T19:03:00.000-08:00

By Meena Singh Shah

Volkswagen Polo is the impressive car and it is available in both versions petrol as well as diesel. The diesel engine of Volkswagen Polo comes within the three variants with the capacity of 1.2 L. this diesel variants is the very economical on the roads and offer the great mileage of 16kmpl in the city and 20kmpl on the highway.

Polo is available in two petrol engines of 1.2L and comes with the 5 Speed Manual Transmissions. It is a very fuel efficient and provides the mileage of 12 kmpl in the city and 16.5kmpl on the highway. The some Polo variants present in the Indian market are

Polo Petrol Trend line 1.2L Features: it is the base variant of Volkswagen Polo and comes with the all basic features like AC, Central Locking, Power Steering, Front Power Widows, Halogen Headlamps, Chrome Finished Gear Shift Knob and Interior Door Handles etc. This Polo Price in Delhi is around 4, 44,734.

Polo Petrol Comfort line 1.2L Features: This variant is equipped with few additional features like Metallic Pearl Effect Paint, Body Colored ORVMs, 60/40 Split Folding Rear Seat, Luggage Compartment Cover/Parcel Tray, Front and Rear Power Windows, Height Adjustable Driver's Seat, etc. This Volkswagen Polo Price in Delhi is around Rs. 4, 95,949.

Polo Petrol High line 1.2L Features: it is the more advanced variant and accompanied with the features like 15inch Alloy Wheels, Chrome Interior Trims, Livon Upholstery and Fabric Door Trim, ABS, Dual Front Airbags, Front & Rear Fog Lamps, Rear Wiper and Defogger, Multifunctional Display, Door Open Warning, etc. This Polo Price in Delhi is around Rs. 5, 85,916.

Polo Diesel Trend line 1.2L Features: It is the standard diesel variant and has almost similar features like Polo Petrol Trend line 1.2L offers. This Polo Price in Delhi is 5, 49,163 around. Polo Diesel Highline 1.2L Features: It is the top end model and offers the same features like Volkswagen Polo Petrol High line 1.2L This Polo Price in Delhi is around Rs. 6, 86,270.

Polo Petrol Highline 1.6L Features: This is the sports version of Volkswagen Polo which is accompanied with the high capacity of engine and delivers the great performance. Other features of the car are just similar to the Volkswagen Polo Petrol Highline. This Polo Price in Delhi is around Rs. 6, 16,000.

These are the estimated on-road prices of Polo, to confirm the price visit to the online car stores.

If you want to purchase second hand Volkswagen cars or want to know Volkswagen polo price and Volkswagen new beetle price you can login to khojle.in a free classifieds site.

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Audi TT car review

2011-01-11T01:05:00.000-08:00

Stig drives the Audi AS1 and the Audi TT MTM Bimoto around the track. The AS1 is super-light and the Bimoto has two engines so they should both be very fast - but can either of the German cars beat the British Radical in the power lap times?

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Car Reviews - 2011 Range Rover Supercharged

2011-01-11T01:00:00.000-08:00

By Jason Neeson

Unlike many of the modern day Sport Utility Vehicles (SUV), the Land Rover Range Rover is a true off road capable SUV that feels just as comfortable on paved roads as it does in the dirt. The Range Rover has a body on frame construction, like a truck, which makes it a very capable off road vehicle. The Range Rover has been in production since the 1970's and is classified as a luxury vehicle. Many of the early models from the 1970's can still be seen driving around, which is a testament to their durability and high quality.

The modern Range Rover is extremely luxurious with all of the latest technologies one would expect from a luxury car. The interior is lined with premium soft-touch leather and includes a lot of insulation to reduce cabin noise. It can seat five adults comfortably and is equipped with the highest quality sound system and includes an in-dash 6 DVD system for the occupants to watch movies. The 2011 Range Rover comes with a hard disk based navigation system that can be synced with local traffic control centers to avoid highly congested streets. The front leather seats are heated and cooled and also have a massage function, which comes in very handy after a hard day's work. There is a three zone climate control system for the driver, front passenger, and the three rear passengers.

On the exterior, the 2011 Range Rover has the same basic shape as models from the 1970's but it has been refined over the years to give it a contemporary look fit for the 21st century. The vehicle comes with aluminum wheels, High Intensity Discharge (HID) head lights with LED daytime running lights and LED tail-lights.

Under the hood is a supercharged 5.0 liter Ford V8 engine that produces 510 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 461 pound feet of torque at 5,500 rpm. The power is delivered to all four wheels via a six speed automatic transmission with a manual shift mode. The Range Rover can reach 60 miles per hour from standstill in 6.2 seconds, which is very impressive considering it weighs over 4,000 pounds, and can reach a top speed of over 140 miles per hour.

There are various styles and configurations that the Range Rover can be order with. There is the standard version which starts at around $70,000, the next step up is the supercharged version which costs around $100,000, and the extremely luxurious version called the Autobiography that costs well over $125,000 and is fitted with all leather interior surfaces including the dashboard, door panels and even the ceiling.

For those looking for a bit less off-road capabilities and more sporty driving dynamics, there is the Range Rover Sport which comes with a completely different sporty body.

If you'd like to read more car reviews, visit our blog which is filled with articles on the latest Super Cars news, reviews, and pictures.

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Ford Fiesta Zetec Car Review

2011-01-04T01:37:00.000-08:00

By Melissa Pye

Driver Comfort & Visibility
Overall the visibility in the Zetec is good. There are only 2 areas of slight concern for vertically challenged people like me (Entertainment

This is worth a mention. Not only can you control your choice of tunes with a button on the steering wheel, but you can connect just about any portable music player including a USB stick, MP3 player and iPod. The Zetec also has a small screen located in the centre of the dash showing you what is playing.

Safety
It's no good looking sexy in your car if you're not safe. The Fiesta has you covered. ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution and front passenger and driverairbags are standard across the range. The Zetec also has Dynamic Stability Control, Emergency Brake Assist and head, thorax and driver knee airbags as standard. You can opt for these additional safety features on the other models for a small $1,000, which is well worth it.

Rear Passenger Comfort
It's not a huge car, so the back seat will not sit 3 burly blokes comfortably. But at least their noggins won't hit the roof thanks to the more than generous head space. However, if you're shipping around kids or small dogs, then space is not an issue.

Storage
Some good storage options for a car of this size. There are front door pockets which will hold a bottle of water, a good sized glove box and a small coin holder on the right hand side of the steering wheel. In the rear you'll also find pockets on the back of the front and passenger seats. It's got 3 good drinks holders that are well positioned in between the driver and passenger seats.

The boot is not huge, but you will easily fit in a gym bag and some shopping with the rear seats in use. We popped in 2 overnight suitcases and 2 brief cases with ease. If you need even more space, just fold the rear seat down.

Green Factor
Plenty of green news here. It consumes about 6 litres per 100kms, has a greenhouse rating of 7.5 out of 10 and has been awarded 4 stars by the GreenVehicleGuide. Cheap to run and not too harsh on the environment.

The Drive
We took the cars for a spin in the Adelaide Hills to really test its road holding, acceleration and braking. The Fiesta loved the hairy turns and steep inclines. It performed incredibly well and was a very fun car to drive. One very clever feature is its speed sensitive steering called Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS). Basically the steering is lighter when you're going slower, like parking, and it firms up when travelling at speed, which gives it a sporty feel.

What We Love About the Fiesta
Healthy list of safety features, great audio system, iPod and MP3 player compatibility, blue tooth technology (in the Zetec) and the seat trim. You've got a choice of 11 exterior colours with a stand out lime metallic. And yes, we do love its styling. It's sporty, cheeky and a little bit sexy!

Test Drive Tips
The indicators are located on the left hand side of the steering column, thanks to its European origins. Not so bad if it's raining, but on a dry day you'll feel a bit of a goose putting on your wipers each time you go to use your indicators!

If you are thinking about test driving this car, you might also want to consider the Hyundai Getz, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Swift and Holden Barina.

Melissa Pye is an Australian pioneering the way women are valued in the automotive industry and works with leading auto brands to educate them on the needs of women. Her site, Her Car, is the only site in Australia where all of the new car reviews are written by women! When buying a new car or if you need any automotive information look to HerCar.

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Give a Gift - Give Away Your Scrap Cars!

2011-01-04T01:31:00.000-08:00

By Stuart Breaker

There are plenty of people out there who spend plenty of their time scratching their heads wondering how best to get rid of their old cars. It can be an expensive business, and not a lot of people want to try to keep their old cars on the roads. Of course, plenty of people do this, but it is not the best news in the world for all of these old cars to still be out on the roads given the environmental factor. Old cars have far worse emissions by and large in comparison to newer cars, so it is always a good thing when an old car is put to bed in the proper manner! Of course, if you are less worried about the environment and more worried about your own pocket, it is worth remembering that most cars that are more than ten years old will be worth less than what you spend on them in any given year.

So it seems fairly clear that the best thing you can do with old cars - both financially and in terms of the environment - is to get rid of them, and this doesn't have to be a chore. A lot of people are now discovering a fantastic program where you can have your old car towed away for free. If you want to scrap cars, all you have to do is get in touch with the company who will take your car for free! Not only will they take your car for free, they will also donate any money that is made on the car to a charity of your choice! The process is so simple. All you have to do is to get in touch with the company, and then that company calls in an affiliated scrap merchant, and they come and collect the vehicle. The vehicle is either scrapped, or it is sold at a salvage auction, and the proceeds go to a charity of your choosing. You can select from hundreds of different ones on the website!

When you consider how much money you could potentially spend on the constant repair of an old car, and you then consider the cost of a new vehicle, if you really think the whole thing through you will realise that you will be better off in the long run with a much newer car. Of course you will have an initial payment to make, but over the years you will save an enormous amount of money. Getting rid of your old car is so easy, and when you have an opportunity to help others so easily,then it is a great choice to make.

giveacar.co.uk is perfect for anyone who is looking to scrap a car and likes the idea of being able to help those in need. They are committed to car recycling, and are proud of their position as a company looking to help charitable foundations wherever possible.

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Choose the Right Tires for Your Car - Know the Basics

2010-12-21T01:45:00.000-08:00

By Ken Geers

The tires on vehicles are one of the most important safety factors, yet we tend to take them for granted more than any other feature. Your car tires keep you and your loved ones safe, give you a comfortable ride and also contribute to more efficient gas mileage. With value like that it's important to give them special attention. The first thing you want to do is to check your auto tires for wear to confirm that you need new ones. An easy method for this is to take a penny and insert it into the tread. If Lincoln's head can be seen you need new tires. Other signals are wear bars, breaks, slashes and evidence of uneven wear.

Once you have determined that you need new tires you need to consider the type of driving you do. This includes the weather, distance and speeds that you normally drive. Car tires are designed for specific results. Many people are the most comfortable with an all-season tire because it is a good compromise for all conditions. Take a look at your current tire size to know what size your new ones should be. On the side of your auto tires you'll see a number such as P275/75/R15. The P represents passenger followed by the width and then a number that represents the height which is a ratio of the height to width. An R should follow which stands for radial and then the final number is the diameter of the wheel.

Now that you know the type of car tires you need and the size that fits your car it's time to go shopping. Car dealerships, tire specialty stores, discount stores and the Internet are all good options for getting a good deal on the price of new auto tires. Competition on the Internet is very high so good deals are found everyday. Regardless of where you buy your tires it's important to have them installed by a professional. They have all the special machines and tools needed for proper and safe installation. They will also do the necessary balancing and aligning.

Once you have your new car tires installed it is important to perform proper maintenance to keep them at their best for as long as possible. This includes regularly rotating them to keep the wear even, regularly checking the air pressure to assure that you get the best gas mileage and they are at a safe level. Taking proper care of you auto tires will not only keep you and your family safe but will save you money by extending their lifespan.

Ken Geers the writer can be found at Sporto Motoring Accessories Sporto Motoring offers automotive interior and exterior accessories to enhance and protect your vehicle investment.

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Car Review - 2010 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR

2010-12-12T03:12:00.000-08:00

By Matt Straub

This is the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution MR. It's quite literally the best blend of performance on the track while giving you a excellent ride for everyday driving, and it definitely proves itself every time you step on the gas. Can I get 5 of these to go please?

The new Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution is offered in two different versions, one being the GSR which only has a five speed manual transmission, Recaro Sports Seats and Enkei Wheels. You can also get the optional spoiler, the HID headlights and the upgraded sound system. These are all nice and everything, but if you had that extra thousand available, spend on it on what i'm driving today.

The new MR model is sublime in every way possible. It comes with Mitsubishi's new Twin Clutch Sportronic Shift Transmission (TC-SST) which makes driving this car so great. It shifts smooth and very quick. I don't think I lost any torque at all between shifts which is fantastic. You can also use the three different modes: Normal, Sport and S-Sport, depending on how aggressive and fast you want to shift. It also comes with Eibach springs, Bilstein shock absorbers, lightweight brake rotors, and BBS forged-alloy wheels. And at only $38,990 it's a great price. Of course, you could go with the Touring version which has a few little extra perks to it for $40,990.

As always, the Lancer Evolution's come with a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder MIVEC4 motor producing 295 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque and the Super All Wheel Control (S-AWC) drive system.

Taking this thing on the main city roads is very comfortable. Although, when you hit bumps I will have to say you feel them right away. It's not exactly comfortable and you find yourself every now and then dodging bumps and holes in the roads much to the displeasure of people around you. However, that is one thing that I didn't let bother me. On good roads it feels great, and to smoke some dumb hillbilly in a pickup truck off the stoplights was great as well (no lie, he got his ass kicked).

Taking it to the highway, it was fantastic. Stepping on the gas you get instant power, and extremely smooth shifting thanks to the new gearbox. It was just unbelievably good. Sorry to the local law enforcement, but I got the car up to 130mph before I decided to slow down. Guess you would have had to be there to catch me. I then pulled off to the country roads, set the mode to S-Sport, and took it to the corners. It goes around them really fast, but it just feels so smooth. It's almost perfection at it's best. If I could, I would drive 45 minutes away from here to the nearest road course and beat the hell out of this car, but I guess that's not for me to do.

Now I could also talk about the extra sound insulation, the optional navigation, upgraded audio with Sirius Satellite reception, and leather seats. But I think when you buy a car like this, you're not getting it for these little extra things. You're getting it for the overall experience of it. It's a great car for a great price.

Matt Straub is the Editor for Street Diaries, an online car news, reviews, and opinions web site designed for the everyday car enthusiast. Originally formed by a group of people who love cars in 2007, the web site has grown from a once small news web site, to a social media network, and finally now into a large information blog.

Every two weeks Matt does a review on a popular or top end vehicle on the market and gives it his opinion how how it handles not only in city driving, but highway and country roads. He also does the Car Opinions on things that "drive him nuts" about cars or what people do with them.

Visit our web site at http://street-diaries.com/

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The Italians Are Coming Back to America - 2012 Fiat 500 Is Unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show

2010-12-07T00:34:00.000-08:00

By Alan Gell

It can't be much "newer" than this one - the Fiat 500 which will be a 2012 model and not available until next year. It was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show last week and I was lucky enough to have a front row seat during the press conference. During the two day media frenzy, this press conference and unveiling probably received the most attention of all the events.

After some loud music and swirling spotlights, a small, red 1957 Fiat 500 drove onto the stage. A very attractive lady got out of the car. Attractive females and shiny automobiles have always been a part of car shows. But it became instantly obvious that this was not a typical female model or product specialist employee. This was Laura Soave, the Chief Executive for Fiat North America.

Soave has been with the North American Volkswagen team for several years, but Fiat recently hired her to take control of the brand in the United States. She is a first-generation Italian-American with a lot of her family still in Italy. She commented, "This is not just a job for me, it is a passion and very near and dear to my heart." She showed a photo on the large screen, of her as a small girl standing on the hood of a Fiat back in Italy.

The 2012 Fiat 500 will be called a Cinquecento and will compete directly against the Mini-Cooper and other small cars. Besides looking very cute, the anticipated price of $15,500 attracts a lot of attention. The Cinquecento will have a six speed automatic transmission for the North American market. Standard shift is all that is available in Europe. The styling and overall looks will remain true to the Fiat heritage and Soave is almost passionate about that. Her sense of duty to Fiat was obvious throughout her talk. "My job is to protect the Fiat brand and keep it consistent around the world," she said.

The Fiat 500 Cinquecento will retain the European names for the three trim levels - Pop, Sport, and Lounge. Each of these models was driven onto the stage during the press introduction. There are 14 exterior colors and 14 interior colors, and these will all have Italian names. This was Soave's idea also. "I renamed all our colors in Italian to distinguish ourselves more and have more Italian-ness in the brand," she commented. For example, red will be called "roso."

The exterior styling is basically unchanged from the past few years of the European model. Like the Mini-Cooper, it is considered "retro" and looks very similar to the little 1957 model that opened the press conference. Changes that are not obvious to the eye are abundant, however. These include a redesigned body structure that meets American regulatory requirements for crashworthiness. The cabin is quieter, in response to US customers demand for quietness. The floor, trunk, and instrument include new sound-deadening materials. There are new body and door seals as well as hydraulic powertrain mounts that help minimize engine vibrations.

Doug Betts is Chrysler Group's Senior Vice-President and very involved with the Fiat 500 introduction. He said, "The Fiat 500 is an excellent package to start with. As we enhanced it to match North American driving conditions and consumer expectations, we also made sure to preserve the world-class, fit-and-finish standards achieved by Fiat's development team."

The Fiat 500 is powered by a 1.4 liter MultiAir engine that is considered highly efficient. There are new four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, a revised electronic stability control system, and a redesigned twist-beam rear suspension feature.

The Fiat 500 is creating a lot of excitement among journalists and I look forward to a test drive sometime next year. Because Fiat has been out of the American market for about 15 years, it will take some adjustments. With the purchase of Chrysler Group by Fiat, the obvious solution will be to initially merge the two. Chrysler is currently identifying major dealerships which will offer the Fiat 500 for sale. It will available early next year.

ALAN GELL, Lh.D.
Member, Texas Press Association
Member, Texas Auto Writers Association
http://www.CarColumns.Net

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Skoda Superb

2010-11-29T02:18:00.000-08:00

By Gurg Sumit Kumar

Skoda Superb has been given a rebirth by Volkswagen designers who have named this flagship car of Skoda family in honor of the luxurious Skoda Superb of 1930's. It shares its platform with highly successful WV Passat model. Dubbed as executive car, current models include 1.8L I4 Turbo as standard engine. More powerful petrol and diesel engines include 2.8L V6 30v and 2.5L V6 TDI, respectively.

Specifications
A recent facelift offers new radiator grille, headlights, side repeater indicators and C-shaped tail lights. As part of refurbishment project, interior panel is fitted with real wood and includes extras that were once hallmark of original Skoda Superb. Utilizing transverse engine layout, the all new B6 comes with fuel stratified injection turbocharged engine which can be upgraded to a powerful 3.6L 191kw FSI VR6 versions, providing reduced fuel consumption. For automobile enthusiasts who prefer even more power, Skoda engineers are now offering an optional direct shift gearbox with 6 or 7 speed transmissions in all trim combination. These trim levels are classified as Comfort, Ambition and Elegance in Europe, however, in UK they are marketed as S, SE, Elegance and Greenline. A Combi 5 door estate model is already introduced in Frankfurt Auto Show. This version of Skoda family cars is made for car owners who prefer luxury and more passenger space.

B6 Models
Produced in Czech Republic and India, Skoda Superb B6 2008, contains 4motion four wheel drive which is fitted with more advanced technology, constituting top of the line petrol engines such as 3.6 L VR6 FSI 4x4. Similarly, powerful diesel variants have also been reintroduced to include 1.9 L I4 TDI PD DPF Greenline and 2.0 L I4 TDI CR DPF. It seems that Skoda Superb designers are bent on providing even more choices. Their motives are expressed in classical 'Laurin and Klement' model which derives its features not only from original Skoda masterpiece but also from Rolls Royce. Like Rolls Royce it includes components such as an umbrella hidden in rear door panel.

As of 2008, the first generation Skoda Superb has stopped production. In its place, B6 is being offered in either 5 door liftback sedan or 5 door estate versions. Based on Volkswagen Group A5 PQ35 platform, the new version is a touch longer and wider than its predecessor. Fortunately, a slight price difference should not limit loyal Skoda buyers to catch onto the latest frenzy in Czech Republic and certain other East European markets.

Gurg Sumit Kumar provides reviews on latest car models, automobiles and all four wheelers. Find more about his latest review on Skoda Superb, its specifications, features and all the available models.

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Volvo XC60 Review

2010-11-22T06:06:00.000-08:00

By Michelle Spencer

Sleek, elegant, chic and sporty are not words you might normally associate with a 4x4 - and you'd be extremely unlikely to use them all at once to describe the same 4x4. That is until the advent of Volvo's XC60.

Since bringing the utilitarian off-roader into the family leisure market, car makers have striven to style it and tailor it to offer the broadest appeal, with varying degrees of success. Some try a 4x4/MPV cross, while others go for a more laid-back SUV image. There's even been an attempt by a premium car maker at trying to turn its large SUV into a sleek sports coupe, with notably unsleek, nay, grotesque, results!

Unlike many SUVs, Volvo's XC60 manages to retain, and even enhance, the svelte lines and subtle contours of its more lightweight saloon and estate brethren. In fact, if you lowered an XC60 to make it adopt a road-hugging stance, it would doubtless appear as a rather rakish sports estate. Volvo calls it "emotional" styling.

Cabin Comfort

You wouldn't accuse the XC60's interior of being overdone. It is fresh, modem, stylish and, above all, simple. The all-anthracite lower-half trim of our test example might seem dull and oppressive in some cars, but with little more to lift it than white contrast stitching and tastefully applied bright moldings, the Volvo manages an air of smart practicality. You'd expect nothing less from Swedish design.

The focal point is without doubt Volvo's now well known 'floating' center console, in this instance having a bright metallic finish. It presents an array of logically-arranged and clearly-marked controls - the human-shaped air-distribution graphic being a particular case in point - which become almost intuitive at first glance. Above this and the CD slot resides the clear sat-nav screen, slightly inset to reduce reflections in the window glass, and located on the same plane as the instruments where a quick glance enables immediate visual clarity without refocusing.

Gauges - just the two - convey the necessary details via annular analogue dials and (that word again) 'floating' pointers with digital supplementary information displayed in their centers. They have a chronographic look to them, but Volvo has thankfully resisted the usually Far-Eastern car manufacturers' trend to decorate them with too much bling and fancy illumination.

In true Volvo tradition, the seats are well-shaped, supportive and comfortable with those in the front offering a useful range of adjustment. The rear compartment boasts reasonable if not commodious legroom, and the nicely contoured seat should provide three average-sized adults with cozy but comfortable travel. The 40:20:40 split/fold seat gives a flat load floor when the one-touch release levers are operated.

Zoned climate control gives a degree (actually, quite a few degrees) of heating/cooling versatility and clean cabin air using filtration and Volvo's Clean Zone Interior Package, an innovative air-purging system.

Driving Dynamics

Five-cylinder engines make a deal of sense, being as responsive as a 'four' yet almost as smooth as a 'six', although the smoothness bit is less apparent with an oil burner. Once warmed up, though, the D5 is a pleasant enough diesel, delivering brisk performance in concert with the smooth-shifting six-speed Geartronic transmission, which also has Sport mode and manual override.

Having originally thought the steering over-weighted, a few miles later it seemed to feel quicker and more responsive. Speed-dependent assistance is available as standard or an option, depending on model, with a user-selection facility.

In normal conditions the all-wheel drive system is front-biased, with torque re-apportioned via the computer-controlled hydraulic clutch as available grip alters. Volvo's Instant Traction is designed to assist with standing starts. Ride is quite firm (maybe due to the BMW X3 being an XC60 benchmark) but gives car-like cornering and handling, though well-judged initial compliance takes the sting out of many road imperfections.

The Volvo's City Safety helps avoid low-speed accidents; Collision Warning with Auto Brake and Adaptive Cruise Control with Distance Alert operate at higher speeds; BUS reveals your blind spots; DAC and LDW try to stop you falling asleep or straying out of lane; and IDIS delays phone calls while you deal with complex driving situations. These systems can be had along with Volvo's renowned safety design and engineering assisted by Roll Stability Control, Hill Descent Control, Dynamic Stability and Traction Control, and Trailer Stability Assist. Oh, and there's Park Assist...

Pulling Performance

The Volvo's 90kg nose weight offers a good margin to accommodate most appropriate caravans, and rectangular, straight-edged door mirrors provide a better platform than many for towing mirrors.

The XC60 proved to be brisk, turning in a 0-60mph time of 14.5 seconds despite initial take-off being softened by the automatic gearbox.. Hill starts were equally as trouble-free. The outfit felt quite unruffled in urban conditions, possibly due to the assurance of City Safety, and with a 30-50mph time of 6.1 sec was rarely in danger of holding up other traffic. Normal auto mode coped well, smoothly finding itself in the right gear at the right time.

The steering could occasionally feel a bit weighty in tight, twisty urban conditions but improved at higher speeds to become smooth, responsive and accurate, where the Volvo felt in complete control through strings of minor-road bends. On steep descents manual gear selection could be useful, but the strong brakes with their various driver- assistance systems provided reassurance.

At motorway speeds the XC60 tracked straight and true, though on a very windy test day some buffeting was experienced, as was some enforced deviation offline from large overtaking trucks and coaches.

Ride comfort in all conditions was firm, though rarely uncomfortably so, and the XC60 managed to damp out the caravan's bump reactions very competently over all but the worst ruts.

Verdict

Think of this SUV as a tall, slinky, blonde Swede that'll never have a blonde moment, yet is very XC.

Check out these automotive reviews from hybrids to the latest forklift truck models, and HGV to forklift training guides.

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Top Gear: BBC:Audi R8 Car Review vs Porsche 911 Carrera

2010-11-22T06:04:00.000-08:00

Jeremy Clarkson reviews the new Audi R8 supercar and claims it to be one of the best supercars in the world - only to be interrupted by a competitive Richard Hammond in a Porsche 911. Which one is better - the Porsche 911 or the Audi R8? The only way to settle this argument is through a Top Gear special drag race! Who will win? Watch this clip in full to find out.

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Mercedes-Benz E500 Cabriolet: All You Want In A C-CLass Packed Stylishly

2010-11-16T02:04:00.000-08:00

By Janelle Elizabeth

It is back again and it'll deal with lots of competition from a lot of Euro convertibles. Presenting the Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabriolet! Featuring its E-Class foundations assuring that it is bigger than the CLK cabrio and that it will successfully replace, the E-Class Cabrio appears a lot like its siblings, specifically the coupe. The side profile is good-looking too and even with a top which is fabric, that has been picked to help keep the load down, the load of this vehicle is simply heavier by 120kg compared to equal hard top.

In the winter weather, you can really have a quiet driving with the roof in place similar to cruising a coupe. If the roof is lowered, it is just as awesome. And thanks to climate control, and Airscarf, one will definitely remain cozy. It also makes use of "Aircap" that is a deflector in the frame of the windscreen and a draught stop which is between the back car seats which as outlined by Merc, will minimize the wind flow and noise in the cabin at 160km/h. Nonetheless, this automobile is centered on unperturbed development since it isn't a real sports car but a luxury GT. Just simply look at the large steering wheel if you'd like proof!

With a three-link front, multi linked suspensions in the rear, together with features which make it obvious that a lot of money has been spent on the car, it's really a fantastic drive. There are much more great features like cruise control with automatic following, a rear view camera, park control, drowsiness detector, TV tuner, temperature controlled seats, auto headlights, and a lot more.

Step on the accelerator and you will definitely discover its 51:49-front to rear equilibrium providing an enjoyable agility. This vehicle navigates corners precisely using speed sensitive guiding and also dynamic dampers assist. And although there's a hint where the strong engine may well take control of the rear, the stability control though will gather up.

Nevertheless, in spite of its undoubted capability and minimal flex for a drop-top, this particular car never truly feels light-footed. It's not a big surprise though, since it weighs in at 1840kg. This car isn't as hardcore as the engine indicates nor the reality that this engine is not actually brand new won't make an impression on its buyers. They're going to still adore the muffled gurgle of its 5.4-litre V8 engine as well as the delivered acceleration. On top of it all, who will not enjoy all the extravagance of an E-Class sedan that's packaged more stylishly?

It's back again and will also encounter lots of competition from plenty of Euro convertibles. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class cabriolet! Using its E-Class foundations guaranteeing that it is larger than the CLK cabrio and that it will essentially replace, the E-Class Cabrio appears nearly the same as its siblings, mainly the coupe.

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Fiat Punto Car Review

2010-11-16T01:58:00.000-08:00

By Himanshu Shekhar Jha

Fiat, the well known name in the automobiles market recently came up with a new hatchback called the Grande Punto. Both its exteriors and interiors look powerful and muscular. This mid sized hatchback has quite been liked by the users.

Design and Styling
The design of the Fiat Punto car is quite attractive to look at. The car is available in very varied colours such as: Exotica Red, Hip Hop Black, Bossa Nova White, Minima Grey and Medium grey. The interiors of the car are two toned. The seats have a sporty structure and padded base providing utmost comfort to the people sitting inside. The steering wheel is leather based.

The dashboard is simple and the cabin spacious. There is a lot of room for leg-space perfect for long journeys. The rear seats can be folded. Apart from the back storage area there are few notable areas of storage, advantageous for travelling on outstation tours. The rear view mirror is electronic and can be adjusted without opening the door glass. The air conditioner installed in the car is climate sensitive and adjusts the temperature accordingly.

There are many state-of-art technological features used in the car making it appear truly European. With the help of Blue & Me technology developed by Microsoft, mobile is synchronised with Bluetooth for SMSes and Voice Dialling. Fiat Punto is available in the following models: Active, Dynamic, Emotion and Emotion Pack.

Engine and other specifications
There are a total of three kinds of engine available in all the models of Grande Punto. They are: 1.2 litre petrol engine, 1.4 litre petrol engine and 1.3 litre diesel engine. The maximum power given out by these engines is 68 Bhp@ 6500 rpm and the maximum torque being 96Nm@ 2500 rpm. The fuel efficiency of Punto is seen to be a maximum of 16 kilometres per litre. The engine displacement is 1172cc, FIRE, 8 valve, SOHC. The kerb weight comes to 1140 kilograms.

The front brakes are disk type and the rear drum. The suspension is Independent Mc Pherson Struts, Teles Stabiliser Bar. The size of the tyres is 165/80 R14. The car is provided with 2 trip meters and a tachometer. The bumper resembles the colour of the body of the car.

The door mirrors are manual on both the sides. The driver seat adjustment is manual with power windows and steering. Remote boot and remote fuel filter have been provided with. The top speed of the car zooms up to 182 kilometres per hour.

Drawbacks
The quality of the interiors is average and the fuel efficiency given out by the petrol models is low. On speeding the car, the engine produces quite a lot of noise too. The services provided by Fiat are not competent with other hatchback companies.

Conclusion

Fiat has made a satisfactory attempt by launching Grande Punto. This hatchback is not the best but definitely not the worst either.

Besides this Fiat Punto Car Review you can read other car reviews at http://www.techfren.com

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The Importance Of Breakdown Cover

2010-11-09T01:46:00.000-08:00

By Adam Leyton

As of 2010, the number of vehicles operating on the roads in the United Kingdom is in excess of 31 million, as reported by the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders). This figure is among the largest in the world and consequently leads to a very large number of breakdown cover calls every year. There are several reasons why breakdown cover is extremely essential to motorists in the United Kingdom. These factors are discussed below.

Personal vehicle travel in the UK forms one of the main backbones of the country. Therefore if a person's car breaks down unexpectedly in the middle of a journey, he or she is left with very few options available. If the breakdown occurs in a remote location, the problem is even worse. He cannot leave the car unattended on the side of the road as it would be a hazard to other motorists. This is where breakdown cover comes in. The person can easily call a roadside assistance company and they will swiftly come to help him or her out. If the vehicle has a minor breakdown such as a flat tyre or lack of radiator fluid, the mechanic can easily and quickly get it running again which is very useful for consumers.

If the problem is more severe and your vehicle cannot be fixed immediately, it is taken away to the nearest local garage while options are provided in order to help you reach the destination of your choice. These options may depend on the cover that you have chosen and may include services such as providing a hire car for you or arranging public transport which is paid for by the company. If a person does not have breakdown cover in an instance of a breakdown, the problems that he or she would face would be acute and it would make the subscription of a roadside assistance package well worth it. As it is impossible to know when and where your car will suddenly break down, it is best to be prepared in advance instead of facing headaches at times when you need to urgently reach your destination.

Breakdown cover sometimes also provides the facility of home call-out. This means that if the vehicle breaks down while parked at your own home and not in the middle of a journey, the crew will still come over and repair your car and if that is not possible it will take the car away for repairs which will save you the hassle that would have been resulted without a breakdown package.

Quote Professor is a new website looking at many general insurance lines an with plenty of hints and tips on getting the right cover.

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Audi A6 Saloon Whatcar Review

2010-11-09T01:43:00.000-08:00

Performance
There's a good range of petrol engines, including a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder unit, a 2.8-litre V6, and a supercharged 3.0-litre. The V10-engined S6 is amazingly fast, but the more popular diesel units include two 2.0-litre units, plus a sweet 2.7 and a potent 3.0 V6. The A6 is a big car, and while you might think it needs a big engine to shift it, in fact our favourite is the more powerful of the two 2.0-litre TDI units. Its smooth, powerful, refined and economical.

Ride & Handling
Although the standard suspension offers a decent blend of comfort and control, it doesnt cope with as wide a range of road conditions as the more sophisticated, more expensive air-suspension. With air added to the reassurance of traction-boosting four-wheel-drive, youre getting close to the ultimate A6. With this set-up, the A6 changes direction sharply, resists roll and clings on well. In the S6, though, the ride is very firm, and the car is not as agile as you might expect.

Refinement
Sporty the A6 may be, but refinement has not been overlooked; the car is remarkably hushed up to motorway speeds. The 3.0T is the smoothie of the bunch, but all the engines, other than the 2.0-litre diesel, are impressively quiet, although the S6's V10 sounds great when you give it its head. The automatic gearbox changes gear almost imperceptibly, and the manual is much better than the one offered in the BMW 5 series.

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5 Tips to Avoid an Autumn Breakdown

2010-11-01T02:38:00.000-07:00

By Simon Macsis

Unfortunately, many British motorists head out into the cold and wet without carrying out the maintenance checks that could save them serious hassle in the ice and snow.

Avoid putting yourself at the risk of suffering from a breakdown or accident this winter and get your car ready for winter in autumn. Research from breakdown specialist, Green Flag, has found that over 75 per cent of motorists don't check their battery before winter - and batteries are the most common cause of winter breakdowns!

Not making sure your battery is in tip top shape means you have a 50 percent chance of suffering from a breakdown and finding yourself stranded in the snow.

So what can you do about it? Here are five tips to avoid an autumn breakdown, courtesy of Green Flag.
1. Check your battery regularly at a garage and don't to leave your lights on.
2. Take a few minutes before you drive off and carry out a few maintenance checks.
3. Remove all ice from windows to ensure you have good all-round visibility.
4. Ensure tyres are inflated to the correct pressure and have enough tread.
5. Check the oil and water levels and top up whenever necessary.

It's always a good idea to carry your fully-charged mobile phone in the car and have the number of your breakdown cover organisation at hand, in case of emergencies. Knowing your route is a great help, and Green Flag provides a route planner which works out your route for you and is a great help when planning your trip.

Find more on breakdown cover and European breakdown cover online from Green Flag.

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Car Review: Renault Clio

2010-11-01T02:32:00.000-07:00

By Glenn Nutsey

One of the best things about my job is that I occasionally get to drive some new car demos and this week I had the chance to get behind the wheel of the infamous Renault Clio.

Since its launch in 1991, the Renault Clio has become one of the most popular superminis on the market, breaking numerous sales records and winning a host of awards including European Car of the Year. The latest Clio is now its third generation, boasting a fresh new style and more space than ever before.

Exterior Style:

The new Renault Clio has a striking exterior design with sleek lines and the familiar 'Renault face' as seen on the Megane, Scenic and Laguna. The latest model is larger than its predecessor, boasting more boot space and rear passenger leg room than ever before. It is available as a 3 or 5-door model, both identical in dimension. My model was the entry-level Extreme model in Mercury silver which came equipped with 15'' alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, front fog lights, CD/MP3 player with fingertip controls.

On first appearance, I was quite impressed with the design of the Renault Clio. Granted, it isn't the sportiest supermini on the market but it isn't the ugliest either. Back in the day, the Clio used to be a predominantly 'female' car but I think the new exterior design has changed that. The striking Volcano red and Extreme Blue paint colours give the car a distinctively masculine appeal and more men are choosing to invest in a Clio than ever before.

Interior Design:

Inside the Clio Extreme, the interior was pretty basic with the dashboard, gear lever and door trims all in plain black. The seats were kitted out in 'Papeete' cloth upholstery in black and grey and the carpet floor was in plain back with fixings for tailored car mats should you wish to invest in a set. The stereo was the standard CD/MP3 which is fitted in the entry model but was easy to navigate and gave reasonable sound quality. The stereo can be controlled via the steering wheel mounted controls, located just behind the indicator. The seats were comfortable and easy to adjust.

Overall, I found the interior of the Clio comfortable and practical. Most of the driver features are within fingertip reach including the handy trip computer which displayed the fuel consumption, fuel tank figures and service information. I was a little disappointed that in today's age, Renault haven't fitted a MP3/Aux input as standard on the vehicle - why not? Other than this, the Clio gave a comfortable ride for both driver and passengers.

Power & Performance:

Behind the wheel, the Clio offers a smooth and comfortable ride with impressive fuel economy. The steering was light and responsive and the handling was sharp. The 1.2 16V petrol engine I was driving offers 75 bhp and CO2 emissions of 139 g/km. Fuel consumption is at a reasonable 47.9mph.

I found the Renault Clio a nice car to drive. It was quick to pull off at traffic lights and was more than suitable for city driving. I will admit that I found the engine a little noisy when reaching higher speeds (i.e. on the motorway) but I'm assuming that a bigger engine would help resolve this issue.

Overall the Renault Clio is a nippy, compact car ideal for city living. On the road prices for the entry-level model start from £11,040.

Glenn Nutsey is a keen motorist and a regular writer for CarPress and Nationwide Vehicle Contracts. Check out Nationwide's site for the best contract hire deals in the UK and to order a wide range of Car Accessories at incredibly low prices. http://www.nationwidevehiclecontracts.co.uk

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How to Tune Up Your Mazda - Mazda Tuning Tips

2010-10-26T01:34:00.000-07:00

The time has come to service your Mazda, and like any responsible car owner, you would like to do a good job and keep your car in tip top condition. This is a very good idea because if you ever come to sell your car one day, at least you can say that you loved and cared for it. As is normal with cars, they all come in different shapes and sizes, and their engine capacity also varies. One of the pluses of keeping your Mazda in good condition is that it prolongs the life of your car, protects the engine and helps with fuel economy.

There are a couple of tune up checks that you can perform yourself on your Mazda. When you open the bonnet, you can have a look and see that the radiator hose and the heater hose are not leaking. More serious problems like if they are soft and floppy or hard and swollen, you need a mechanic as both of these indicate a more serious problem. In the engine a big valve cover needs to be checked quite often. This is the cylinder head, which protects the engine from oil spills. The newer Mazda models now use a 'serpentine-belt system' which is adjusted by mechanics. If this mechanism is too tight, you will have problems - talk to your local friendly service station for advice.

Normally the engine cap and rotor do not need much servicing, but with a car, nothing should be taken for granted. An experienced mechanic will check these parts and replace spark plugs and air filters as part of a routine service, especially if your engine light has been on in your electronic control panel.

If your brakes have been squeaking, this could mean that your brake pads are worn out and need to be replaced. It could also be an indication that the brake callipers are out of line, or the drums of the brakes could have problems. This sort of thing needs to be checked out professionally at once, as it is unsafe to drive a vehicle with noisy brakes. Always make sure that you keep your eye on the temperature gauge of your Mazda. This is an easy indicator of problems in your radiator. The temperature gauge should normally hover just under half, but if it moves higher or right into the red area, drive straight to a service station. It could be something simple such as adding water to the radiator, or there could be a leak in your radiator. Your car should not be driven when the temperature gauge is in the red.

Your control panel has various lights that come on when a problem is experienced in that area of the car. So, when your oil light switches on, go to a service centre and check the oil levels. You can do this very simple procedure completely on your own! If you ignore it, you can end up with having to replace the entire engine - a very expensive exercise. If you notice that your car is constantly pulling to one side, there is a problem with the tyres - either they are worn on that side or your wheel alignment is out. This is simple to fix.

For keeping your Mazda in tip top condition Mark Hannt recommends finding your local UK Mazda Dealers.

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Up to £200* off October Half Term Weeks

2010-10-20T01:30:00.000-07:00

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Nissan Juke, Fun in a Compact

2010-10-20T01:25:00.000-07:00

By Carolyn Clayton

The Nissan Juke has really caught on with its innovative style and concept and looks like it will get off to a flying start. The Juke is being produced in Sunderland on the old Nissan Micra line and has already received over 1,200 advanced orders. There have been more than 1000 jobs created due to the production of the Juke and it is estimated that a further 2000 jobs will be created across Nissan in general as a result of the production of this model.

The Juke is a compact version of the Qashqai, already the fifth most popular car in the UK but it has a particular quirkiness to its design. Very busy, lost of curves and accents and has a feel of the vintage car about it. As visually appealing as the outside is, the interior is an example of understated elegance; its innovative central console and stylish interior. The mid-range models come equipped with the Nissan Dynamic Control Centre with push button technology and a touch screen that aims to make car entertainment as convenient as possible.

Nissan have fitted the Juke with a punchy 1.6 litre engine and with its 4X4 wheel drive it provides an excellent and agile performance. You can accelerate from zero to 60mph in less than 8.5 seconds and the car offers you 37.5mpg but does produce around 175g/km of CO2.

The OTR basic model comes in at 12,795 and you will find that there are still a lot of extras as standard, even at the entry level. Alloy wheels, six airbags, air-conditioning, ESP and remote locking. By laying out a little extra money you can quickly obtain the car of your dreams; with extras such as Bluetooth, dynamic dashboard and climate control making it well worth the additional money.

We provide news and information on Used Cars particularly Used Audi and Used Volkswagen.

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Ford Fiesta Falls Off Top Spot

2010-10-12T00:55:00.000-07:00

By Lucy Penn

After months of dominating the number one spot in the new car sales lists the Fiesta has now been knocked off the top spot by the Focus.

It's the first time the Fiesta has been displaced this year - and it hasn't just been pushed down to second place - it's now sitting in the third spot as the Vauxhall Astra has jumped up a position to occupy second place. So Ford's 1-2 domination has finally been broken by their rival car brand - the Astra has had an exceptional year though.

Many of these new car sales have been attributed to the Scrappage Scheme - however the scheme has now come to an end and as most vehicles have been delivered. In total the scheme was responsible for 2.7 per cent of the total number of new vehicle sales.

When looking at the 2010 May sales compared to the 2008 May sales it's evident that they are down by 15 per cent which equates to around 26,000 sales.

It was suggested that the general interest in the supermini or city-car sector had cooled in general. These small, fuel-efficient cars are the exact models which did so well under the scrappage scheme as motorists discovered the great savings that could be made under the government-funded scheme.

Now the scheme has ended its highly likely that the sales of these cars will decline - it was these types of cars that carried such high discounts.

The next few months will be very interesting - and experts will be eagerly anticipating the effects of life after the Scrappage Scheme.

Lucy Penn is an online marketer and researcher who is currently researching the Ford Fiesta Billericay

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2010 Mazda CX-9 - Review

2010-10-04T13:05:00.000-07:00

By Ray B Spencer

When shopping for a new vehicle, ensuring the auto comes with desirable amenities is a priority, but it's vital not to overlook the fundamental issue of safety. You'll want to ensure your vehicle is equipped with everything possible to enhance your driving experience. That is why reading reviews and gaining knowledge on your next potential automobile should be crucial in determining your purchase.

In considering the 2010 Mazda CX-9, it's important to note that this is a large model SUV and considered to be afford ably priced at anywhere from $28,000-$35,000. The vehicle's engine - a 273-horsepower 3.7-liter DOC V6 - is Mazda's largest ever made. Also known as an CUV, this is a full sized crossover with decent fuel efficiency. The fact that premium fuel is not a requirement is an additional bonus.

Options for this vehicle's trimming does include three varieties: Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, each with specific features exclusive to its classification. Another option to select from is all-wheel drive. Alternately, you may select the front wheel drive which comes standard.

For those with large families, the roomy seating can accommodate up to seven adults with a little maneuvering of middle row adjustments. Intended to ensure ample amount of leg room as well as lavish pampering for all passengers, the CX-9 boasts a luxurious interior.

Examining the functional and luxury additions, you'll find enough to please most everyone in the family. Hands-free Bluetooth capabilities offers a functional bonus. For music lovers, the Bose Centerpoint Surround Sound music system features the ultimate in car stereo pleasure. The system boasts eleven speakers of brilliantly designed surround sound.

Ensuring a quality safety system, the air bags provide protection for every passenger, with front airbags and side air curtains. Rollovers are typically a major concern with many SUV owners. In the event of such an accident, safety issues are greatly reduced with this model. The rollover protection provided by the side impact air curtains is an essential feature for many perspective buyers.

As with any vehicle however, this model doesn't come without a few flaws according to those who have carefully done their homework. Some reviews frown upon the fact that it is lacking in features, such as GPS navigation which is only available on two of the trims. Also noted in some consumer reports is a lack of pickup, although at 273 horsepower that complaint seems unwarranted.

Interesting to note, there is not a lot of cargo room for storage, due to the extensive seating area. A compromise for sure, although it may be a matter of which option is more desirable to suit ones needs.

Many consumers love the CX-9's classy curved appearance, stating that it has a more stylish design than a comparably sized mini-van. Reviews state this model resembles a very large car rather than a typical crossover, which makes it a popular choice. Not only have drivers voiced their opinions unequivocally in favor of its refined elegance, they have rated the CX-9 a favorite of the year.

Read more about the Mazda CX-9. Visit our site for lots of 7 Passe
nger Vehicles Information.

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Ford's New Models Are Out Soon!

2010-10-04T12:58:00.000-07:00

By Lucy Penn

The long-awaited launch of the new Ford C-Max is almost upon us. The hotly anticipated Ford C-Max will hit Ford dealerships across the UK in October - so they are just one month away!

Ford have made picking a model and trim level even easier as they've simplified the selection. You can now pick from just two body styles and a smaller range of trim levels. The body styles consist of a 5-seater and a 7-seater. The latter of these two will be hotly anticipated by the country's motorists as two-thirds of UK motorists in this segment look for seven-seat flexibility.

The seven-seater model will be known as the Grand C-MAX and rear-sliding doors mean that passengers can benefit from easy access to the rear seats.

Both models come equipped with trendy alloy wheels, air conditioning and a sophisticated leather steering wheel as well as a digital radio/CD, Bluetooth and rear parking sensors.

The two Trim levels that are going to be available are going to be called 'Zetec' and 'Titanium' - I'm sure you'll be able to read far more about this on Ford dealer's websites!

Family cars have undergone a lot of change throughout the years. Lone gone are the days when car manufacturers would barely consult a designer as they focussed primarily on practicality.

Nowadays you'll find an influx of family cars that have hit showrooms that are very much focussed on design as well as practicality too. Citroen led the way and now many other car manufacturers are having to follow!

Lucy Penn is an online marketer currently researching ford c-max kent

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Honda Civic Carbon Fiber Hoods

2010-09-26T07:28:00.000-07:00

By John Rory

The Honda Civic 92-95 is a great car, so any choices, Hatch Back, Ferio, Coupe, a huge variety of engine swaps. Make your FWD beast a killer civic with a SEIBON carbon hood or a carbon trunk. Many stores sell cf hatches for the civic EG hatch back, upper and lower.

Long gone are the day or crazy body kits, huge front bumpers, wild side skirts and aggressive rear bumpers, but SEIBON carbon fiber hoods seems to have made it's permanent mark in the automotive scene, now OEM manufacturers are adopting the use of carbon components throughout their cars. The Civic EG 92-95 looks great with a carbon lip, carbon oem hood and carbon fiber hatch. You can even go to the extreme with cf fenders and doors.

There are too many hoods to list, but they range in styles, from light weight OEM to vented styles. Many vented styles EVO, VSII, Invader and more.

Definitely check out Google's Civic section if you own a 92-95 Civic, you can find rare carbon kevlar hoods and other parts which look awesome on a black or bronze Honda Civic. Some websites have a massive selection of composite parts, including hoods, fenders, body kits, lips, side skirts and even hatches.

The insane amount of after-market parts available for the Honda Civic EG makes part hunting almost impossible without a website that offers good navigation. Many automotive websites offer just that, excellent product navigation for the Honda Civic 92-95 EG, sortable by categories like Honda Civic Carbon Fiber Hoods.

Import tuners are very happy when they purchase SEIBON carbon fiber hoods, it's a very popular brand with great quality. SEIBON is an excellent choice, especially for the Honda Civic 92-95. VIS Racing Sports also has quite a large selection of hoods, fenders and trunks for the same car, so it's definitely worth the time to browse their large selection of products on eBay as well as AIT racing parts. If you can't find the Honda Civic part you're looking for then perhaps a company can custom make it for you.

You're probably seen these products on many website like autobuzz back in the day or 935draggers, you can also see them on many of the popular automotive car show websites featuring the pictures from Hot Import Nights or other shows here in Southern California or Florida.

Check out our S2000 Carbon Fiber Hoods FAQ Page for more information about carbon hoods for your car.

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Porsche 997 Techart Turbo Vs. Honda Civic 1.6 Turbo

2010-09-26T07:25:00.000-07:00

Street Cars DragRacing Porsche 997 Techart Turbo Vs. Honda Civic 1.6 Turbo

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New Fiat Idea - Modern and Elegant With a Strong Personality

2010-09-21T00:35:00.000-07:00

By Timothy Marian

Fiat Auto Argentina launched the new Fiat Idea. The new exterior design makes a car a strong personality, much more modern, dynamic and elegant. It has a new hood, grille and bumper. The hood became more refined, with curves and folds flat well defined. The bumper is more encompassing and robust and at the same time, the grid was refined. What is most striking are the new headlights poly double parabolic -elliptic to provide a better light distribution and excellent uniformity, with an increase of 25 % in terms of brightness. Now they are larger and are more inclined, with format similar to that of a triangle with rounded corners bent. Big changes are also verified in the rear. The gate - with integrated spoiler - and back glass are new and fit perfectly with the identity of the model, dynamic lines and surfaces better defined. The rear bumper, which brings the vehicle patent stamped follows the shape of the front and in harmony with his lines, gives strength and modernity Idea.

An important development is the rear lights incorporating innovative technology: the LED lighting system and light guides. It is the first time a segment model incorporates such lights. Innovative is also the aesthetic finish of the rear light, masked in opaque material. LEDs installed in the optics, produce a distinct visual effect when the position of the car lights are lit and light guides are illuminated. The sides are many new front fenders and chrome trim, depending on the version. A nice touch that helps define the harmonic levels of the vehicle.

The external mirrors are larger, improving visibility and providing safety. light alloy wheels, cup wheel and door handles are also new. Sporting the new version, like version Adventure, gained exclusive details. For the Sporting created a set of stylistic elements, with a more seductive and sports. Includes side skirts, spoilers front and rear spoiler and wheels unique design, as well as the headlights and rear light with black mask. The Adventure version, meanwhile, has bumpers and lights and fender- specific side, giving it a robust character - appropriate to their usage profile. The spare tire is exposed, covered and protected by a shield that was developed for this new idea.

Interior

The interior also was refurbished. The front seats are now more enveloping, providing the driver a better driving position. The lining of the seats may be leather, bringing central armrest, plus add a small table behind the passenger seat. The seats also won new differentiated tissues for each version and the adoption of technology " embossed ", which applies shapes and embossed design, it even richer. The steering wheel is also new. Its modern design with a touch of sportiness, driving comfort provides both a visually pleasing image.

Functionality is another important aspect of the carrier. Slides prepared in strategic locations cleverly exploit the internal space. It highlights the overhead console with four slides and watch the back seat mirror, unique item in the segment, standard on all versions. Attractive and Essence versions of the new Fiat Idea have dashboard with white illumination. Modern and easier to read, brings speedometer, tachometer, markers gradual fuel level and water temperature and a display with clock, odometer, computer board and My Car Fiat.

Optionally, the Essence versions can be equipped with a more complete instrument panel, which brings information from the onboard computer level B, radio, calendar and external temperature. For the Fiat Idea Sporting it created a unique instrument panel with white light and registration "Sporting", which displays a complete set of information: speedometer, tachometer, markers gradual fuel level and temperature of water, to computers board A and B, odometer, clock, radio, calendar and display the external temperature. The Adventure version also has a distinct instrument panel with exclusive silkscreen and brings the same information as the Fiat Idea Sporting panel.

My self work with Eurodb. It's Used car sales reach record levels in the Australia in 2010. Eurodb aim for 100% customer happiness and by doing so have a wide range of used cars and new car. We have one of the largest collections of used cars in Australia. Sell Your Car or Sell My Car at Eurodb.

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Seat Ibiza ST Roadtest

2010-09-13T14:58:00.000-07:00

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The Ferrari F430 - Beauty and Performance in One Classic Machine

2010-09-13T14:51:00.000-07:00

By Jamie Vanderhorst

A legend, a masterpiece of automotive engineering, designed for absolute top performance, and styled with such classic lines it is virtually a piece of art. This is the Ferrari F430. Find a Ferrari F430 for sale, and you have found a ultra high performance work of art you will be proud to own, envied for owning, and thrilled to drive.

Produced by Ferrari from 2004 until is was replaced with the Ferrari 458 Italia in 2009, the F430 was a solid performer and continued the Ferrari legend. This beautiful car was designed to be ultra stylish with its beautiful curves and highly aerodynamic lines.

It boasts a 4.3 liter V8 engine which is a combined Ferrari/Maserati design, which gives the F430 an amazing 483hp, and a top speed of 196mph.

This mid rear engine, rear wheel drive beauty is mounted on a 102.4 in wheelbase, with an over all length of 177.6 inches, and weighs in at 3,197lbs. Ready to run as you work through the 6 speed manual transmission. It was also made with a 6-speed 'F1' electrohydraulic manual transmission for pure performance.

The design of the F430 was made to provide not only classic styling, but improved downdraft for greater handeling performance and road hugging ability. Find a Ferrari f340 for sale, and you will be looking at a chance to purchase a automotive classic, with all the performance that makes Ferrari a legend. Original MSRP pricing for the F430 was between $168,000 and $227,000.

The F430 was a leader in performance and innovations. It came equipped with E-Diff, which was a computer controlled differential which could vary the distribution of engine torque based on the cars acceleration and steering position. This was a a industry innovation, and the first of its kind ever used.

The F430 also came with a steering wheel mounted electronic stability system with which the driver can set the stability settings of the vehicle using one of five performance settings. The Ferrari F430 also came equipped with the exclusive Eagle F1 Goodyear tires, which feature run-flat capability and One Tred Technology.

The Ferrari F430 came in two model, the standard two door hardtop, and the Spider, which is the convertible version. As with all Ferrari automobiles, slip into the drivers seat and you feel like you are sliding into the cockpit of a high performance race car or aircraft. The sleek and classic dashboard offers aircraft styled instrumentation.

The F430 also featured key less entry, leather seating, power windows and door locks, an anti-theft system, and a superb ABS anti-locking braking system. If you love high performance, classic and timeless styling, and the performance only Ferrari can provide, then this is a car for you. Find a Ferrari F430 for sale, and you have found a timeless classic.

Jamie Vanderhorst has been covering the auto industry for the last 10 years, working as a professional automotive writer. One of his favourite cars is the Ferrari F430. View his favorite used cars for sale here.

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The 2011 Jaguar XJ Is Improved And Better Than Ever

2010-09-13T14:41:00.000-07:00

By Jacqueline Star

Sales in the automotive market have been down lately and Jaguar's sales weren't any different. Also, it didn't help that their lineup has remained unchanged for the past few years. However, with Jaguar's flagship vehicle receiving a new look inside and out for 2011 that is all about to change.

Often cars in the luxury market will be quite similar but the intention of the 2011 Jaguar XJ is to entice customers with something that is a bit different. And the new XJ looks downright sinister. This four door sedan sports 20in. rims and has a super powerful v8 engine.

Cosmetic changes were also made. The glass line has been altered and extended with the rear sloping down to meet the trunk. The roof looks much lower almost like the car has been chopped. The Jaguar looks like it has one unbroken large piece of tinted side glass.

You can choose from numerous different variations for the wheel base and type of engines. The XJ version has the shorter 119in. wheel base and the XJL (L for large) has a wheel base of 244 inches. The very base model checks in at $72,500 with a DOHC 5-liter V-8 motor that produces 385 hp 385 lb. ft. of torque. The top of the line buys you a supercharged version of the engine cranking out 510 hp and 461 lb. ft. or torque, it also gets you the larger wheel base. Price for everything is $115k for this: the super sport model.

Engineers installed a very advanced suspension system which is comprised of continuously variable dampeners. The body though has been made 11% stiffer over last year's model. The curb weight is just over 4,000 lbs., which in the world of luxury cars is not very heavy. This allows the XJ to perform just as well as autos much smaller in size.

When it comes to speed the XJ leaves everyone else in the dust. This car can effortlessly race to 0-60 MPH in 4.4 seconds with the quarter mile zooming by in 12.7 seconds. Faster than a Camaro SS or Mustang GT which consider themselves drag strip bruisers. Fuel economy checks in at 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway for the smaller engine and 15 mpg city 21 mpg highway for the 510 hp version. The Jaguar has an electronically controlled rear differential to put the power down. The cabin epitomizes fine living and ultimate luxury with its fabulous leather, beautiful wood trim and ample accessories. The gauges grow bright where the needle is and the XJ has a sport mode. The sound system of the XJ is also incredible and offers crystal clear sound for your driving enjoyment.

If you are looking for a luxury car that packs a punch then check out the 2011 Jaguar XJ. This is a car that offers all of the amenities of a luxury car, but it can still outrace cars like the Mustang GT!

Written by Jacqueline Star Orange County Ford, Los Angeles Infiniti

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The E90 BMW M3 - Can it Live Up to the M3 Badge?

2010-09-07T00:37:00.000-07:00

By Jo Alexander

The BMW M3 has always been an iconic road car, that offers high performance and handling, all wrapped up in the subtle body shell of the BMW 3 series. With the launch of the very latest M3, known as the E90, BMW is hoping to further strengthen the reputation of this well known brand.

The original BMW M3, called the E30, was launched way back in 1986 and really set the standard by which all other sports saloons would be judged. This first model had a 2.3 litre 4 cylinder engine, however to keep pace with its other German rivals, in the shape of Audi and Mercedes Benz, engine capacity has steadily increased leading to the all new 4 litre V8 that is found in the E90.

For many years the BMW M3 could easily lay claim to the title of best sports saloon, however with the launch of the new Audi RS4 and Mercedes C63 AMG this claim is not so easily assured. Especially as Lexus has now joined the fray and surprised everyone with its all new, and very capable IS-F.

Initial the E90 M3 was first released as a two door coupe, which strictly speaking was called the E92, and came with the new V8 engine, a carbon fibre roof and the option of a six speed double clutch gear box that could beat the manual in the race to 60 by 0.2 seconds.

The coupe M3 was then soon followed by a four door saloon which, whilst lacking a carbon fibre roof, was shorter, wider and taller that the 2 door, and both models share the same front end design including spoiler, indicators and front car lights. This was later accompanied by a hardtop convertible, which was a move away from the fabric roofs seen on previous generation M3's.

In the performance stakes the new M3 certainly has the power to keep up with its rivals with the V8 engine cracking the magic 100bhp per litre figure and producing 414bhp in total, with an incredible rev range that red lines at 8,300rpm. No matter which body style you go for all versions are electronically limited to 155mph, however in the sprint 60 the coupe leads the way at 4.5 seconds, followed by the saloon at 4.7 seconds and the considerably heavier convertible at 5.3 seconds.

There is no doubt that this very latest M3 moves the sports saloon game on further, and it still has the pace, handling and driver feedback to see off the competition from Audi, Mercedes and Lexus, although their deficit on the E90 is certainly not as much as it used to be. However more tellingly, despite the increased power, grip and driver aids some of the pure driver enjoyment of the original M3 may have been lost, especially when Evo magazine ranked the original E30 M3 above all its contemporaries, including the new E90.

With this latest version of the E90 M3, BMW has really pushed the performance envelope for sports saloon car further than ever. Whilst not every car can have the performance of the new M3, you can make sure your car stands out from the crowd by upgrading your Car Bulbs By replacing your the standard halogen bulbs used in your vehicle's headlights with new xenon Headlight Bulbs your are sure to get some admiring looks.

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New Safety Features For Nissan

2010-09-07T00:32:00.000-07:00

By Dennis J James

Nissan and Infiniti cars are equipped with two new safety technologies, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Concept and Moving Object Detection.

The first one helps the driver to avoid hitting a vehicle by reducing the risk of sudden braking. A radar sensor monitors the distance from the car in front and its relative speed. If deceleration is required, the driver is alerted through a screen display and sound. Then a force is generated that pushes the accelerator pedal and applies partial breaking, assisting the driver to slow the car down. If there is still a possibility of collision, the system applies harder braking while at the same time tightens the seatbelt of the driver.

The second system is available with other auto makers, but the version offered by Nissan offers supplementary information to the driver when he starts the car or drives at low speeds. The older version, Around View Monitor, was launched in October 2007 and was available on Infiniti EX and FX. It also uses screen display and an audio buzzer which informs the driver of moving objects that are close to the car, pedestrians included. It does so when you start the car, park it or when driving at low speed. This new feature could also be helpful in intersections with poor side visibility.

Several automakers are offering features that offer more awareness of their surroundings, and the systems are capable of higher performance if compared to the driver's abilities. Acura, Lexus, Ford or Mercedes-Benz have similar systems, but the new Nissan Forward Collision Avoidance Assist Concept takes things a step further. The Moving Object Detection uses a surround view camera system to notice any pedestrians or objects moving close to the vehicle. However, unlike similar systems on Volvo or Lexus, it only works for low speeds and does not apply brakes.

The new safety features will probably be available on Infinity next year. Nissan is not only offering improved safety feature on its vehicles. The electric Leaf has zero-emissions status, and the devotion towards electric vehicles seems to be greater than that of other car makers.

Improving emissions and increasing fuel economy is a goal for all the vehicles offered by Nissan. Next month, Nissan will launch the next generation XTRONIC CVT, continuously variable transmission. In the next few years, several hybrid models will be launched, among which Fuga Hybrid or Infiniti M35 Hybrid are the most interesting.

Use of low-displacement engines such as the HR12DE three cylinders and the HR15DE 1.5 liter is also planned for the future but also for the newly launched Juke.

Nissan Motor Co. is always trying to find ways to increase efficiency on its power trains in order to reduce carbon dioxide emission. The three and four cylinder gasoline engines offered in 2010 are examples of the company's green efforts. The company has a holistic approach on zero-emission which translated into a range of eco-technologies from which customers can choose. The commitment of this company to ongoing innovation has various facets and safety features are not the only domain in which you can notice it.

Dennis runs Car Dealer Check a site that provides user generated Car Dealer Reviews and information on Iowa Car Dealers.

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Lotus Elise 1600 CC

2010-08-31T06:53:00.000-07:00

By Ashley Hollebone

The New Lotus Elise 1.6

- Lotus have launched an new entry level, face lifted Elise. Designed to be frugal with a planet saving ethos.

What happens when your dream car is about as much a reality as bumping into Lady Ga Ga in Tescos? Well it just becomes something you think about when you feel you need to escape the boundaries of your every day life. Not a bad a thing I guess, it gives us all goals and a place to aim.

Now let me ask another question. What if your dream car could actually become a part of your lifestyle? without you having to sell your organs. And no Lady Ga Ga won't be a part of this. Sports cars are designed to be lusted after, to be sexy and admired with their sweeping curves, powerful engines and exclusive price tags. On the subject of change, sports cars and the word 'affordable' don't tend to go in the same sentence, unless we're talking about old classics.

I'm not talking about a rusty old MGB but still an iconic British sportscar. The Lotus Elise. Now in its 15th. year of production the titchy fibre glass sports car offers an eco alternative to its pedigree of superb handling, race breed roadsters. The Lotus is made in Norwich, the same place as Turnips and Mustard.

This is the new entry level Elise, powered by its smallest engine yet. A 1.6 litre Toyota unit, coupled with a new 6 speed gearbox. This car is all about economy and at £27,000 offers supercar looks for sales rep saloon money. Now for the part that appeals to me. 56 mpg is impressive and must be considered a huge attraction with its 500 mile range. The team at Lotus have nick named this car the 149 due to its low emission output of 149g of Co2 per Km. I just think it's a nice way of saying 'yes we have the worlds most eco friendly petrol powered sports car. With the confidence of a reliable Japanese powerplant the Elise is kind of in its little world. Of course there are rival brands and models to consider but all of these lack the little Lotus's charm, lines and stunning drive. Don't think that the small engine makes the Lotus experience any less either. It doesn't. It will reach 60 mph in just 6 seconds and is capable of making you grin with ease. This new Elise handles, grips and snoggs the road like a teenage love affair, you could almost forgive yourself to think that winding roads and bends were designed 100 years ago as these industrial pioneers knew that someday a car would be built to drive around them without almost flat out.

However as much as I love this car, I feel I must say that it's not perfect. The indicator stalks are still sourced from the Vauxhall Senator parts bin which I feel could at least have used the Ford set up from the Lotus Evora or why not a nice set of their own? I understand that this car is all about economy but if you close your eyes and fire the engine up you would think you are in a Toyota Avensis, one of the dullest machines on the road. Such a disappointing engine sound, however this changes when you drive the Elise. Once taken past a certain engine rev limit a second camshaft opens up, producing a much satisfying deeper engine tone whilst aiding the power. I can't winge about the boring engine sound on this new Elise, if they had added a sporty exhaust system then the emissions would have been higher and thus taking the whole point away of this car. If you want that then get the next model up or better still an Evora if you have the money. The Elise is a car for anyone, it's at home in a supermarket car park as it would be with a WAG. Qwerky, iconic and owned by many celebrities including Jay Lo, Jennifer Lopez or what ever she wants to call herself. Oh and one other thing.. dead flies on the windscreen. Both of which will put everyone off wanting to buy a Lotus Elise. Not bad if that's all I can find to moan about.

This new Elise has been subtly tweeked. At the rear a deeper defuser aid the exciting airflow reducing drag while at the front a similar thing, although you wouldn't really know it. Lotus has always been about weight saving rather than monstrous amounts of power and this Elise is still true, weighing in at just 876 kg. This is not a car for those that want to drive flat out everywhere. It's a great touring car with this engine. Capable of keeping up but definitely not that quick. But once again I don't need to state that, this Elise is what it is. A low powered Lotus that won't get you into trouble unless you slap its face and make it angry. I am definitely of the opinion that this car, as with any little Lotus is not just a car but more of a part of you and should be described as a being rather than an object. You don't drive an Elise, you wear it like a well fitting shoe.

This car is two cars in one. Its low power means that its safe for even the most novice of drivers to handle while still retaining enough poke once pushed to waken the little car into a torrent of excitement. So who's going to buy the new 1600 cc Elise? I think those that want to own an environmentally considerate sports car. After all the Lotus will never rust so you won't need to replace it. It's bonded aluminum chassis and fibre glass coach work keep the rust factor away. Thankfully all the issues of the previous Elise's now behind, mainly the old Rover K series engined cars which went through head gaskets like no tomorrow.

With new models in the pipeline and the stunning new Evora, these are exciting times for Lotus as the company is starting to thrive once again. I'm sure you'll agree that it's great to see a British Automotive manufacturer doing well and ultimately producing a product you want. Open your eyes, wake up from your dream, your car is here!

Ashley Hollebone

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The new BMW X1

2010-08-17T02:32:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the interior and the exterior of the new BMW X1

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2010 BMW X1 Review - A Hot Hatch in Disguise

2010-08-17T02:26:00.000-07:00

By Kenji Alexis

Many people love hot-hatches. They are nimble, spirited and fun, created for the enthusiast who craves for the occasional adrenalin surge. The DNA behind every hot-hatch has remained essentially the same since the whole genre began with the original Golf GTi, with wheels tucked away in each corner, a willing engine, sharp handling, and loads of street cred.

Err.. wait a minute. 'Isn't this about the BMW X1?'

Yes it is, but bear with us for a bit. For all intents and purposes, the BMW's X1 3.0i is a hot-hatch in disguise, but one that can swallow not only B-roads whole, but also your kitchen sink! What we have here is a SUV (or SAV - Sports Activity Vehicle as BMW likes to call it) that drives and handles like a very good hot-hatch. Or if you will, a hot-hatch that can carry just about anything you'd expect a SUV to. Confused? You should be, but the Jenkyl and Hyde character best sums up theX1.

Throw it into a series of corners and it hugs the desired path with tenacity and composure only a BMW SUV with the clever xDrive is able to; the AWD system that allows infinite, fully variable distribution of torque between front and rear axles that significantly reduces over- and understeer. This agility coupled with a 'sporty' tuned suspension promises many happy returns for the driver.

But that's only half the story. With a 3.0 line inline-six making 231 horses and 300Nm of torque, the X1 has sufficient muscle and flexibility to fully exploit its handling talents. Adding to the joy is a six-speed auto that even 'manual-only' fans will endorse. It is responsive, quick to react to inputs from the right foot, and clever enough In select a lower gear when going downhill, offering engine braking before you can even engage Steptronic to manually drop a gear or two. The rate of deceleration is also aided by a set of anchors that is progressive in feel and utterly easy to modulate, useful when stopping a vehicle weighing over 1800kg.

However, the steering communication is untypical of Beemers - more front-wheel drive in feel - which is perhaps attributable to the power being channeled through both axles. It is light at low speeds but accurately weighs up as the speed increases. What it lacks is the feedback associated with rear wheel driven BMWs. It is not devoid of any communication, just less so.

But this is also where the parallel between the hot-hatch and the X1 ends. Instead of being greeted by a typically snug interior of a BMW sedan, the cabin of the X1 is a pleasant place with ample space for its occupants. But it's not straight-As all round, the over-firm front seats (with electric adjustments) are only so-so in comfort, you get the feeling of sitting on top of them rather than being cosseted, though a comfortable driving position is not a problem with the multi-adjustable seats and steering wheel. And of course the panoramic glass roof that extends almost the entire length of the roof, needless to say, considerably brightens up the already airy cabin.

Other nice touches include a clever foldaway cup holder located just under the passenger side air-con vent and a fully equipped first-aid kit under the front passenger seat. The integrated stereo system is as Teutonic as they come, with simple controls and a six-disc CD changer built into the armrest. Adaptive bi-xenon headlights are also standard, and these follow the direction of steering to illuminate the intended path for better safety.

Few hot-hatches are able to carry more than a couple of days worth of luggage. Even a storing a full sized golf bag can be a difficult proposition. This is where the X1 excels. A furniture buying spree is not going to be a problem unless you intend to self-transport a bed. With up to 1560 liters of luggage space available, five large clay-pots plus luggage comfortably resided in the rear of the X1 on a recent jaunt to Ipoh.

For me, the X1 is the 'ultimate' hot-hatch. It will comfortably keep up with the best of them and still be the great all-rounder they can never be. To the well-heeled enthusiast who has to balance his appetite for driving and the fun in having the entire family out on a picnic, this has your name on it.

Kenji Alexis has been writing car reviews for close to 10 years. Come visit his latest website over at http://www.motorstop.asia to check out the in depth Honda cars reviews and all the latest automotive news.

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Equip Your Automobile With the Modern Keyless Entry System

2010-08-10T01:25:00.000-07:00

By James Jakob

To get rid of the need for the keys to get into your car, you can now avail the benefit of the smart key. The recent development in automobiles has facilitated its users with the latest keyless entry system that caters to their comfort. The following article will give you an overview of the remote entry system that is in popular use.

In the arena of technological development, the emergence of keyless entry system has further equipped vehicles with the latest technology. In recent past it had yielded great success, which seems to continue till date. It provides users with the benefit to safeguard themselves from the risk of forgetting the keys inside the car, which people often fall prey to. Apart from this, it also saves the time required in the process of opening the car and this comes in very handy when you are running short of time.

The installation of this system in cars has made it easier for the users to lock or unlock their vehicle without even coming in physical contact with it. If you forgot to lock your vehicle you can effortlessly access that through the keyless entry system even if you are in a building. Simultaneously smart keys allow you to keep a check on your car as far as the security prospect is concerned. This particular system has been designed keeping in mind customer satisfaction.

The keyless system is capable of protecting your vehicle from an external threat like theft. It does not permit the entry into the car without the smart key. With the aid of a sound system the alarm gets onto the activation mode, further warning you of the danger, this is when someone other than the owner tries to attempt to open the vehicle. In this way it caters not merely to the comfort of the users but also assists them in placing a protective shield around their vehicle.

The introduction of this system takes us ahead to an advanced stage of technology, thus becoming a quintessential part in raising the bar of competition. It brings into light another crucial factor of customer requirement which is of significant importance. It is amazing to think of a system that can enable us to lock our vehicle without the manual process of applying keys to it. It is now possible to avail this facility in the lowest price possible.

A remote entry system can be easily installed in car as it incorporates user friendly features and this imparts another lesson of the recent development in the field of technology. To undergo the search regarding this system on the internet, you can begin with the keywords keyless remotes and this will open up the related options in the concerned field.

Almost all new models feature this facility as it enhances the traits of the vehicle, allowing the users to enjoy the automatic lock system.

The relevant points listed below will help you to get hold of a quality keyless entry system for your vehicle:

* Go through an ample range of sources that claim to offer the system so as to guarantee your choice.
* Verify the legal existence of the supplier to protect oneself from the threat of forgery.
* The variety availability is a must watch principle that would enable you to pick the best suitable choice for yourself.
* The proper functioning of the remote system must be verified before completing the financial transaction.
* Ensure the quality of the system as it could later hamper the smooth functioning of your vehicle or damage the security system.

The above mentioned guidelines will lead you in the right direction in your search, delivering you with satisfying results. Your search will enable you find an appropriate answer in the availability of an automatic remote lock system that will keep you updated on the grounds of technology.

This article is written by an expert working for Auto Transponder, a reliable source that makes the keyless entry remote feasible for the comfort of its customers, keeping in mind the quality of the material.

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The All New 2010 Audi A5 Turbocharged 2 Liter Engine

2010-08-03T11:16:00.000-07:00

By Ronnie W Tanner

One of the newest additions to Audi's line of luxury vehicles is the Audi A5, a two-door sport coupe. Originally introduced with a standard six-cylinder engine, the A5 has received a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine for 2010. The new 2.0 liter engine produces 211 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, compared to the 265 horsepower 3.2 liter V6 with 243 lb-ft of torque that was the only option for the 2009 A5 and remains an option for 2010. Both engines can be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the four-cylinder also has a six-speed manual option.

The new four-cylinder engine, called the 2.0T by Audi, also provides better fuel economy than the V6. With a manual transmission, the 2.0T is EPA rated for 22 mpg in the city, 30 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined. The automatic transmission drops the fuel economy to 21 city, 27 highway, and 23 combined. The six-cylinder engine improved in fuel economy over the last year; it now is rated for 18 city, 27 highway, and 21 combined (compared to 17/26/20 for the 2009 model). With a 16.9 gallon fuel tank, the 2.0T manual has a range of 422.5 miles, while the 2.0T auto can go 388.7 miles between fill-ups and the V6 is good for 354.9 miles.

One of the highlights of the new 2.0T engine is its impressive torque. It produces more than the V6 engine, and it peaks very low in the car's RPM range. The 2.0T gets to 258 lb-ft of torque at just 1500 rpm, which has left reviewers in awe of the driving experience. Great performance is a requirement for this car, as Audi has stiff competition in this segment from the BMW 3-series and the Infiniti G37 coupe, both of which have more powerful engines.

Find out more about audi a5 engine and other industry specific topics.

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Why You Should Choose a Ford Transit Van For Your Small Company

2010-08-03T11:10:00.000-07:00

By Lance Winslow

Perhaps, you are one of the small businesses which has noticed your customers coming back, and you are watching the recession slowly ending. Perhaps, you are considering expanding your business and maybe getting a commercial vehicle to help you make deliveries, or to help you in servicing your clients, customers, or new consumers. If so I'd like to recommend a Ford Transit Van as a potential vehicle to use, and I have many reasons for recommending this particular vehicle.

The first reason is one of marketing ability and signage. The vehicle is set up perfectly so that you can put your company logo on the side, and since it doesn't look like other vehicles on the road it will draw attention. The second reason is one of fuel economy, even though the economy is recovering, you still must save money in your business, so you can provide healthcare insurance for your employees, and/or pay the additional energy costs which will occur due to the Cap and Trade Law which may come into effect.

Believe it or not, you can buy this vehicle on a lease for about $280-$350 per month. Since it is small, and not too costly the insurance is also not very high. The vehicle is very easy to drive and maneuver, and therefore, you don't have to worry about your employees getting into an accident very easily. Because the vehicle is small it is easy to park and it takes up very little space. Plus the Ford Transit Van has great access to load it up with cargo.

Personally, I like the vehicle for all sorts of automotive type services, pizza delivery, flower delivery, or number of other types of businesses - maybe you will also fall in love with it. There is a tremendous amount of space in the vehicle considering its small size, and buy having this vehicle, it shows you care about the environment because you didn't buy a full-size van.

Also, because it is smaller, you won't have the increased DOT vehicle tax for having a higher category of vehicle. Perhaps, you might consider The Ford Transit Van as your next small business commercial vehicle. I hope you will be thinking here. Please consider all this.

Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank. Lance Winslow believes it's hard to write 20,000 articles; http://www.bloggingcontent.net/

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

Touchscreens for Car Dealerships

2010-07-27T02:34:00.000-07:00

Touchscreen information kiosks are a great investment for car and motorcycle dealerships and enable you to add an extra sales resource to your dealership.

Touchscreen Information for Car and Motorcycle Dealerships

If you're looking to buy a new or used car (or motorcycle) then typically you would prefer to do this on a nice sunny day. Some customers may visit when the dealership is closed, or on bank holidays when the sales team are all busy talking with customers.

By adding a touchscreen information point kiosk to your dealership you have an additional sales resource able to provide a wide range of information, brochures and video content to your new customers. The touchscreen kiosks can be positioned in the main showroom, service area waiting areas and other locations. The kiosks can be branded with your choice of logos and could include the brands you represent.

What can your customers access?

View car stock at this location and entire dealership stock

View details about each car and its service history

Print out the vehicle information

Get a finance quote using online forms

Get an insurance quote online

View Service Department Details

Book your car in for a service

View car reviews and awards

View videos and other documents

Thru-Glass Touchscreens for Dealerships

Using through-glass touch screen technologies you can provide access to your vehicle stock out of normal business hours. Visitors can simply browse your car stock or view service options and even read car reviews from outside your showroom. The touchscreen display can be any size from around 17in to 60in widescreen format. The thru-glass displays can also show video content while not in use.

For more information about car dealerships digital signage visit www.Kiosks4Business.com or call 0845 451 2020

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

How to Improve Your Car's Resale Value

2010-07-27T02:27:00.000-07:00

By Herb Leibacher

If you want to sell your car, you want to get the most out of it so that you have more to spend on your new car. If you want to get more out of your car, you are going to have to do your best to increase the resale value of your vehicle. Find out what you can do to improve this resale value.

First of all, when purchasing cars be sure that you buy models that tend to be more valuable. You can look up which models have horrible resale values. Avoid these types of cars at all costs. These are not the ones that you want to purchase. Instead find that ones that have a higher value so you can get more for them.

Service your car like you should on a regular basis. This makes the car be in better shape. In order to prove that you have been doing this, save your receipts. This will give a potential buyer confidence knowing the vehicle has been taken care of properly.

If you do add on any upgrades to your car, be sure that they are fairly standard. Anything that is outside the box will lower the resale value of your machine. Most don't want anything that is extreme.

Drive in a safe way and stay out of wrecks. If your car is never repaired from a wreck, it will tend to be worth quite a bit more. If you drive safe, you have a better chance of having a more valuable car when you sell it.

Replace the parts in your car with brand name parts and not secondary ones. Many will like seeing name brand parts in the car which will help you potentially get more for your vehicle when you sell it.

Make sure your car smells clean inside. A clean and fresh car will get more money from a buyer than one that stinks.

Herb likes to learn about cars. Please check out his website that contains broadleaf weed killer information as well as horticultural vinegar information.

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

The New Citroen C3: The Visiodrive – Press Release

2010-07-21T06:07:00.000-07:00

Citroën introduces the new C3 – a smart, sophisticated, low CO2 and unique 5-door supermini, designed for the modern family.

Boasting contemporary and dynamic styling, a sleek profile, refined quality throughout and a massive panoramic ‘Zenith’ windscreen, this is a car that sets a new benchmark in the B-segment – and is a bold reinvention of its popular predecessor, which sold more than 2 million examples worldwide.

With a focus on four main areas – STYLE, QUALITY, SPACE and EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE – Citroën’s design team have created one of the most appealing and rewarding models to own in its class.

In addition, thanks to the availability of the unique panoramic Zenith windscreen, new C3 provides something extra – a totally new motoring sensation. Just one of the stand-out design features of this new car, the vast and flowing glass area is a quintessential application of Citroën’s ‘Créative Technologie’, a feat of vehicle engineering and an unparalleled offering in the small car market.

Not only one of the most compact models in the B-segment (5cm shorter than Corsa and 9cm shorter than 207 and Clio), the new C3 also offers one of the most spacious cabin environments and a class-leading 300-litres of boot space. New C3’s intelligent architecture optimises internal volumes and provides generous amounts of room for all occupants – ensuring exceptional driver and passenger comfort.

On the road, new C3 combines refined performance with a smooth ride and nimble handling. The designers’ focus on the control of weight and optimising aerodynamics means the new C3 is one of Citroën’s most CO2-efficient models. A Special Edition Airdream+ with just 99g/km of CO2 will be available to order from launch.

To further promote money-saving greener driving, most versions feature a Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI), which alerts the driver at the optimum moment to change gear – helping them to minimise fuel consumption.

Designed with the latest technology to suit 21st century driving requirements, new C3 is available with Citroën’s integrated MyWay widescreen colour satellite navigation system, as well as Bluetooth® and USB connectivity for portable media players. The new C3 also benefits from a six-speaker audio system, with the availability of a new eight-speaker Hi-Fi system for concert theatre-like sound quality.

The range of available engines meets every requirement. New C3 offers a choice of four petrol power-plants – two of which were co-developed with BMW – plus three of Citroën’s critically acclaimed HDi diesels. With combined cycle fuel economy of up to 48.7mpg for petrol models, and up to 74.3mpg on diesel versions, the new Citroën C3 offers a combination of stylish and economical motoring.

As with any new Citroën model, safety is assured. The new C3 features an array of active and passive safety equipment, which includes a reinforced body structure and ABS with EBD and EBA as standard, as well as the availability of cruise control with speed limiter and up to six airbags. ESP is also available on certain models.

The new C3 will be offered in Citroën’s three core trim levels – VT, VTR+ and Exclusive – along with the Special Edition Airdream+ 1.6HDi 90hp, which emits just 99g/km of CO2.

The ‘on-sale’ date in the UK is 15th January 2010 and prices (including VAT @ 17.5%), start at just £10,790 for the entry-level 1.1i 8V 61hp VT petrol, rising to £16,140 for the range-topping 1.6HDi 110hp 6-speed manual Exclusive. At the heart of the range and offering an excellent balance of value and equipment, VTR+ models start at £12,690 for the petrol versions and £13,790 for the HDi-powered equivalent.

Gary Savage, Citroën UK’s Managing Director, said, “The stylish, grown-up, yet fun C3 is impossible to confuse with any other car. Retaining the exuberant charm and friendly personality of its predecessor, the new C3 represents a bold, contemporary, dynamically rewarding and fresh approach to the compact family vehicle, and provides a unique offering with that sensational panoramic Zenith windscreen.

In these exciting times for Citroën, new models such as C3 clearly show the confidence of the brand. This new car illustrates our determination to exceed expectations, to do away with convention and to provide practical benefits through the use of Créative Technologie.”

MARKETPLACE

The new C3 falls into the popular and growing B-segment, where its predecessor sold more than 2 million examples worldwide. It will appeal to drivers looking for an enjoyable and rewarding ownership experience. New C3 meets the demand for a practical and economical vehicle that also delivers style, distinction, durability and safety.

Offering space, functionality and a refined interior – plus the unique panoramic Zenith windscreen – new C3 has a stand-out personality that will successfully differentiate it from the competition. New C3 will appeal to a wide range of customers who want their vehicle to be individual and not just another face in the crowd.

A vehicle for all ages, the new C3 will be desirable to young families and single professionals looking for a car with a sense of fun, driving pleasure and a distinct personality, but also with practical space and great fuel economy. It will also appeal to older drivers looking for a comfortable and spacious compact car with high levels of specification.

Whilst most models in the small car market either focus on style (with sporty, dynamic characteristics) or practicality (with an emphasis on value-for-money), the new C3 strikes an excellent balance between the two.

PRODUCT IN DETAIL

STYLE – EXTERIOR

The new C3 represents an upmarket shift by Citroën towards the highest levels of B-segment comfort and prestige. Retaining some of the familiar lines of its predecessor, the tauter and sleeker new C3 takes inspiration from B-segment premium models and from the sector above. The result is a stylish and contemporary design that places an emphasis on quality, sophistication and fun.

The design of the body is much more dynamic, with smooth lines flowing over chrome trimmed surfaces. There’s even chrome detailing at the top of the panoramic Zenith windscreen where it meets the roof. The new look is underpinned by the gaping front grill, the incisive boomerang-shaped headlights and emphatically drawn wings, which help to give new C3 its purposeful, low-slung stance.

Catering for a wide range of customer preferences, buyers can personalise their new C3 with a choice of ten elegant body colours. There is also a choice of stylish alloy wheels, with 15” alloys available on VTR+ models and either 16” or 17” alloys on Exclusive versions.

STYLE – INTERIOR

Inside the cabin, Citroën’s designers have focused on quality and comfort, with a stylish and sophisticated interior tailored with chrome and gloss black trim, and a choice of four upholstery styles – including a leather seat option.

The flowing lines of the exterior are mirrored in the smooth horizontal dashboard design, which combines chic styling with high-tech appeal and is finished with either a brushed steel or chrome strip that runs the full width of the car.

The new C3 is designed for an enjoyable driving experience. From the comfort of the contoured seats, the driver looks through the sculpted steering wheel to a brand new instrument cluster design, which sports two analogue dials and an LED display – with a floating visor above to shield them from glare.

PANORAMIC ZENITH WINDSCREEN

VTR+ and Exclusive models, as well as the Airdream+ Special Edition, all feature the innovative panoramic Zenith windscreen, which dominates the car’s appearance from every forward angle. Unique to the market, this massive screen opens up new perspectives and sensations for all occupants.

Soaring 1.35m from bonnet to roof, the panoramic Zenith windscreen is 36% bigger than a normal screen on an average 5-door small car and the angle from the driver’s eye line to the top of the windscreen is a huge 108° instead of the segment average 28°.

Coupled with slim A-pillars, the curved glazed area offers unrivalled visibility – with obvious safety benefits – and gives occupants a truly panoramic view of the world. Progressive tinting across the top 25cm of the screen ensures optimal protection from overhead sunlight. A sunblind, featuring two sun-visors, can easily be pulled forwards when driving in low-angle sun conditions.

QUALITY

With breakthrough levels of quality, the new C3 was benchmarked by its designers against models from the segment above. The huge leap in refinement stems from the special attention paid to the quality of the finishes and materials used – such as on the ‘soft-touch’ upper dashboard. Throughout the interior, the new C3 is inspired by cues from upper segment vehicles, delivering the highest levels of comfort and prestige.

To maintain a calm and peaceful ambience in the cabin, the levels of soundproofing are amongst the best in the segment. Mechanical vibration, as well as noise from the road, have all been minimised and the engine compartment has three times as much sound-absorbent material (155 dm²) compared to the outgoing C3 (48dm²).

New C3’s occupants can be are bathed in light both day and night. Interior mood lighting is available to create a warm and welcoming night-time driving atmosphere in the cabin. Automatically adjusted by an integrated rheostat, the light sources are located in the central console and front foot-wells.

An integrated air freshener helps maintain a fresh and pleasant aroma in the cabin and is a luxurious little touch to enhance the sense of well-being on-board. With a range of available perfumes, the system can continually diffuse a light fragrance into the passenger compartment via the air vents.

SPACE

The new C3 is one of the most compact models in the segment at just 3.94m long, 1.73m wide and 1.52m high, and also offers one of the most generous cabin environments in its class for both occupant space and load volume.

The intelligent design of the car’s internal architecture utilises the best of Citroën creativity to generate the maximum amount of useable space. For example, the recessed lower dashboard frees legroom for the front passenger, which means they can sit further forward, creating more legroom for back seat passengers. The slim design of the front seat backs creates an additional 3cm of legroom in the rear and the semi-raised front seating position also creates space under the seats for rear passenger’s feet.

The 300-litre boot, with its optimised design, is the biggest in the segment and offers easy loading – thanks to the lowered boot sill (only 22.7cm from the floor of the boot to the top of the sill), and the increased width of the boot aperture (104cm). For secure stowage, the boot also has four lashing rings and can be equipped with a removable load net. To increase rear load space, the 60:40 split-folding rear seats can be tumbled down with one hand in a single effortless movement using levers accessed from either the boot or the back seats. With the rear seats down it is possible to load boxes up to 1029 x 1189 x 689mm in size.

Providing convenient storage throughout the cabin, the new C3 is fitted with front and rear door cubby holes, compartments in the central fascia and central armrest, as well as a handy sliding drawer beneath the front passenger seat.

EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE

One of Citroën’s key objectives in the development of new C3 was to maximise efficiency. A design emphasis was placed on minimising the car’s overall weight and optimising the aerodynamic performance – new C3 boasts a Cd of 0.30 – helping the model to deliver excellent fuel economy and low CO2 emissions.

With its agile frame and optimised aerodynamic profile, new C3 is effortless to manoeuvre with a responsive feel. Utilising Citroën’s extensive knowledge of combining smooth road manners with precise handling, new C3’s MacPherson-type front suspension, new rear axle with flexible traverse beam and variable electric power steering, all combine to strike the best balance between ride comfort and road holding. The refined running gear benefits from a range of suspension settings adapted to the power and torque of each engine. Light steering at low speeds and the 10.2m turning circle make the new C3 an ideal vehicle for city driving.

Benefitting from Citroën’s family of efficient power-plants, the new C3 will be offered with an extensive choice of four petrol engines and three HDi diesels, with a Special Edition Airdream+ 1.6HDi 90hp available from launch emitting just 99g/km of CO2 – the first production Citroën to emit less than 100g/km.

The three critically acclaimed HDi diesels – 1.4HDi 8V 70hp, 1.6HDi 16V 90hp and 1.6HDi 16V 110hp – all emit 115g/km of CO2 or less. The 1.6HDi 16V 110hp and the 1.6HDi 16V 90hp Euro V engines (the latter being specified in the Airdream+), are fitted with Citroën’s lauded DPFS (Diesel Particulate Filter System).

The four petrol engines – 1.1i 8V 61hp, 1.4i 8V 75hp, 1.4 16V VTi 95hp and 1.6 16V VTi 120hp – emit between 134g/km and 158g/km of CO2. The VTi 95hp and VTi 120hp are from Citroën’s family of refined and economical BMW co-developed power-plants.

For drivers keeping a close eye on their fuel costs, the new C3 delivers excellent combined cycle fuel economy of up to 48.7mpg for petrol models and 74.3mpg for diesel-powered versions.

All engines are mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox, apart from the 1.6HDi 16V 110hp, which has a

6-speed manual transmission. The 1.6 VTi 120hp is offered with a choice of either 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic transmissions.

From 2011, new C3 will be available with even more efficient power-trains – as well as Citroën’s second generation Stop & Start system. Two diesel versions will emit CO2 at just 90g/km and 95g/km, whilst models fitted with Citroën’s new generation 3-cylinder petrol engines will emit less than 100g/km.

TECHNOLOGY

New C3 can be specified with a range of convenient driver aids, including cruise control with speed limiter, the new Gear Efficiency Indicator (GEI) that helps drivers maximise fuel economy and even rear parking sensors. The new C3 is also available with Citroën’s integrated MyWay satellite navigation and multi-media system, which incorporates European mapping, a wide aspect colour screen, live traffic information and Bluetooth®.

For a rich audio experience, new C3 can be equipped with an all-new Hi-Fi sound system, which features an additional speaker in the centre of the dashboard and an amplified subwoofer in the boot.

Designed for those who like to travel with their music library, new C3 is always well connected with an auxiliary socket fitted as standard across the range – meaning portable music players can always be hooked up to the car’s audio system. Customers can also specify a USB box that features an integrated socket on the central console. This allows users to connect, play and control portable media devices through the car’s audio system with the song title and information shown on the audio display.

The optional Bluetooth® hands-free equipment allows drivers to stay safely in contact on the road and conveniently enables music stored on mobile phones to be streamed wirelessly through the audio system – without the need for connective cabling.

As a neat example of technology meeting stylish design, Exclusive models equipped with the optional Visibility Pack (automatic headlights, automatic wipers and electrochrome interior rear-view mirror), also gain a row of three white LED lights that illuminate the upper dashboard and central console from above.

SAFETY

With high levels of both active and passive safety, including a reinforced cabin structure, the new C3 is a reassuringly secure environment for both driver and passengers.

For confident stopping power, all models are fitted as standard with front ventilated disc brakes and ABS with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and EBA (Emergency Braking Assistance). Providing even more assured handling in low-grip conditions, ESP is also available.

From the VTR+ trim level, all models are specified as standard with six airbags (driver, front passenger, front lateral and curtain), and for the secure fitment of child seats, all models are equipped with two Isofix mountings on the rear side seats.

TRIM LEVELS

The new C3 will be offered in Citroën’s three core trim levels – VT, VTR+ and Exclusive – with a Special Edition Airdream+ that emits just 99g/km of CO2.

Representing outstanding value-for-money, the entry-level VT models features generous levels of standard equipment, including an MP3-compatible radio/CD player with steering mounted controls, electrically adjustable door mirrors, front electric windows and a multi-function on-board trip computer.

At the heart of the range, the VTR+ trim gains the sensational panoramic Zenith windscreen, air-conditioning, 15” alloy wheels, front fog lights, leather steering wheel and cruise control with speed limiter.

The range-topping Exclusive models offers premium levels of design and comfort with additional equipment such as digital air-conditioning, front and rear ‘one-touch’ electric windows, electrically folding and heated door mirrors, part-Alcantara upholstery, 16” alloy wheels and dark tinted rear windows.

The Special Edition Airdream+ will be Citroën’s first production model to emit less than 100g/km of CO2 and represents the greenest choice for the environmentally conscious motorist. Based on the VTR+ trim level, it gains two additional features as standard – rear parking sensors and Bluetooth® with USB box.

PRICES

Prices start at just £10,790 for the entry-level 1.1i 61hp VT petrol model, rising to £16,140 for the range-topping 1.6HDi 110hp 6-speed manual Exclusive. At the heart of the model line-up, offering an excellent balance of value and equipment, VTR+ models start at £12,690 for the petrol versions and £13,790 for the HDi-powered equivalent.

	ENGINE	Insurance Group
	ENGINE	Insurance Group
VT	1.1i 8V 61hp *	2E
	1.4i 8V 75hp	3E
	1.4HDi 16V 70hp	3E
VTR+	1.4i 8V 75hp	3E
	1.4 16V VTi 95hp	4E
	1.4HDi 8V 70hp	3E
AIRDREAM+	1.6 16V HDi 90hp *	4E
EXCLUSIVE	1.4 16V VTi 95hp	4E
	1.6 16V VTi 120hp	5E
	1.6 16V VTi 120hp Auto *	5E
	1.6HDi 16V 90hp	4E
	1.6HDi 16V 110hp *	5E

Citroen C3 2010 Insurance Group

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

The New Nissan Juke

2010-07-15T02:36:00.000-07:00

Part SUV, part sports car, the Nissan Juke breathes new life into the traditionally conservative B-segment of the market, providing buyers with a funky alternative to the conventional urban hatchback. First revealed as the Qazana show car - unveiled at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show - Juke was created at the London-based Nissan Design Europe and refined at Nissan's Design Centre (NDC) in Japan. Qashqai, also created at NDE, is sold in Europe, Asia and Australia while Juke will be marketed in Europe, Japan and the United States.

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

What Car Nissan Juke Review

2010-07-15T02:24:00.000-07:00

Supermini-sized crossover

Has plenty of attitude

Costs from £12,796 – £19,995

bored with normal-sized small family cars, and that some people were getting increasingly uncomfortable in their large 4x4s. Hence, the crossover was born and Nissan christened it Qashqai. It was Ford Focus-sized, but with Land Rover Freelander attitude – it even had four-wheel-drive if you wanted it.

Son of Qashqai – the Juke is born
The Qashqai has been a runaway success and now clever Nissan is at it again with the Juke. Think of it as a supermini version of the Qashqai – funky 4x4 looks in something just a little larger than a Fiesta. There's a 4x4 version, too.

If Nissan was brave with the Qashqai, it has been fearless with the Juke – it has stayed faithful to the wild Qazana concept car of last year, with bulging front headlights, big wheelarches, a coupe-like roofline and hidden rear doors.

Inside story
Inside, the car takes inspiration from motorbikes, with 'floating' instruments and a centre console that's styled to resemble a bike's fuel tank. It's a shame, then, that some of the plastics around the cabin feel a bit cheap.

This isn't a case of style over substance, though – the Juke does all the things you'd expect a supermini-sized car to do. Four large-ish people can travel in reasonable, if not overly generous, comfort. The rear doors with their handles hidden in the window frame are rather narrow to climb through (or fit a child seat through), while the shallow windows make it feel more snug inside than it actually is.

The boot's an okay size, there's a hidden section under the floor, the seats fold down for even more space and the parcel shelf is cleverly incorporated into the boot door.

What's on offer?
So far so good. The Juke is reasonable value, too. Starting at £12,795, you get a car with a 1.6-litre petrol engine, alloy wheels, air-con, six airbags, stability control, electric windows and remote locking. You'll also be able to follow the current trend and personalise your Juke, but most will probably be happy to spend another £1000 to step up from that Visia model to the Acenta trim, which brings climate control, bigger alloys, Bluetooth, MP3-player connectivity and Nissan's new Dynamic Control System – which allows you to alter the car's steering and accelerator settings depending on whether you're feeling sporty or eco-friendly. It will also let you control the on-board computer and the climate control.

Top-spec Tekna models get leather, a fancy navigation system, reversing camera and a keyless system, but then the Juke starts getting expensive at close to £16,000.

Engine options
Most buyers will probably go for the 115bhp 1.6 petrol engine (a revised version of the engine found in the Qashqai). The cars we drove had the 108bhp 1.5 diesel and the all-new 1.6 direct injection turbo petrol model with 187bhp.

The diesel returns an unremarkable 55mpg and 134g/km of CO2 – there's no sign yet of a PureDrive eco version. The engine's a little grumbly, but there's a reasonable amount of power and it's quite smooth – although our car had a slight hiccup at around 1800rpm. It'll cost you from £14,145, which looks a bit expensive when the 1.6 (which will probably be nicer to drive) still gives you 44mpg.

Hotter news is Nissan's new 1.6-litre direct injection turbo petrol engine. With 187bhp, it'll propel the Juke from 0-62mph in 8.0 seconds. It's a smooth, refined and punchy engine that averages just over 40mpg. It doesn't exactly turn the Juke into a hot hatch, but it makes it fun and reasonable value at £15,695 in Acenta trim. The range-topping turbo model comes with an advanced four-wheel-drive system and a CVT automatic gearbox for just under £20,000. However, unless you really want four-wheel drive, it's a step too far for the Juke.

On the road
Given the Juke's tall stance – it's only slightly lower than a Qashqai – it doesn't roll around through bends. Don't go thinking it's sporty, though – just a bit more fun than you might expect. Even with the Dynamic Control System set to Sport, the steering feels a little slack and the front end will run out of grip if you try to get through a corner swiftly. The ride isn't as comfy as a Qashqai's and feels a little over-firm at times. We'll have to see how that translates onto UK roads, but we'd hope it won't feel too bad because the car was designed and developed (and is built) in the UK.

In fact, but for the distinctly Japanese badge on the nose, the Juke is another British success story for Nissan. It's different enough to be interesting, good enough to drive and just about spacious enough for occasional family duties.

What Car? says
Is it the right car at the right time? It's got some other, equally striking small cars like the Audi A1 and Mini Countryman to contend with, but it offers a good value and hugely tempting alternative to both.

http://www.whatcar.com

www.used-car-deals.co.uk

The Pure Electric Audi E-tron Concept

2010-06-22T08:10:00.000-07:00

By Mat Webber Rushan

Audi's new concept the 2009 e-tron is a pure electric drive sports car. The 2009 e-tron concept runs on four motors, one each on all four wheels. The motors are powered by a lithium-ion battery that provides a stunning energy content of 42.4 kilowatt hours that runs for approximately 248 Km.

PERFORMANCE

Its amazing how much of power the 2009 e-tron concept can produce; it produces 313hp(230kW) and 4500Nm of torque. These figures undoubtedly place the e-tron in the major list of sports cars in spite of its electronic nature. The designers of this car have managed to put the battery just behind the passenger cabin for the optimal center of gravity and load distribution.

DESIGN

The 2009 e-tron concept stands wide showing off its true caliber. The single frame grille shows what the Audi designers are capable of and the headlights will undoubtedly take your attention immediately. In addition to the stylishness of the headlights the technology that has been implemented is simply amazing: the lights change and adopt according to the weather conditions. To assist with the headlamps is a camera that works in line with a fast computer to detect oncoming traffic, measure lanes and visibilities.

Another unique design feature for the 2009 e-tron are the two intake vents in the single-frame grille and in front of the rear wheel wells; flaps open the vents as required providing more cooling air when needed.

It is crucial that electric cars are built with very light material, in this case Audi engineers have minimized the weight of this electric car systematically. The structure of the 2009 e-tron is based on Audi Space Frame (ASF) technology. the doors, covers, sidewalls and roof - are made of a fiber-reinforced plastic. With this combination of carbon fiber-reinforced composite material the cars total weight is only around 1,600 Kilos.

THE HEAT PUMP

It is important to talk about the e-trons heat pump because this is the first time in automobile history that a heat pump is used. The primary goal of using this pump is to not use the power from batteries to heat the car. This heat pump is similar to pumps used in buildings that use minimum energy to effectively heat the car's interior.

Car-to-X Communication

The engineers did not forget safety, they have truly put their heads into this machine. The technical concept car consists of a prototype of an information processing system. The catchphrase "car-to-x communication" refers to the direct exchange of information in flowing traffic and to the traffic environment. This technology will revolutionize the networking of road traffic mainly in countries and regions with high level of traffic.

This car-to-x-network will take some time before it gets used in reality on roads. However almost all the car makers in Europe, U.SA and Japan has decided to set a common standard for the hardware and software, once all new cars are equipped with this technology, a serviceable network of automobile transmitters will then be available. These transmitters will help in opening up many practical applications to the automotive world.

Read about similar Sport Cars

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Sudden Acceleration in Rural Areas

2010-06-22T08:04:00.000-07:00

By David S Caldwell

Sudden acceleration has affected numerous automobiles, including millions of vehicles produced in the last ten years. Many drivers have witnessed their vehicles accelerate out of control for no visible reason. Sudden uncontrolled acceleration is extraordinarily dangerous regardless of where it occurs, whether in a city or in the country. Compared with the city, rural areas present a unique set of dangers.

While urban areas are dense with automobiles, rural highways can be far more desolate and unpopulated. Rush hour traffic on the interstate means being surrounded by hundreds upon hundreds of other vehicles. Uncontrolled acceleration in these conditions can result in massive accidents. On many rural highways, several minutes may pass before you encounter another vehicle.

Rural highways may have fewer vehicles, but accidents can prove deadlier than those in city traffic. A vehicle that has been involved in a collision may be an hour or more by ambulance to the nearest hospital. People who have been seriously injured might go unnoticed by the few passing vehicles for some time. In some places, victims may not even be able to use their mobile phones.

Even if an ambulance is dispatched it may be hours before that person can receive proper medical treatment. Rural hospitals serve fewer people and may not be able to take care of people who have suffered serious trauma. When they have stabilized a person who has suffered serious injuries, rural hospitals commonly transfer patients by helicopter to more sophisticated trauma wards in the city.

Toyota automobiles have recently been linked with sudden acceleration. Before taking a vehicle that may be prone to sudden acceleration through a rural area, owners of recent Toyotas should not put themselves at risk. Anyone who owns a recent-model Toyota, regardless of location, should bring their vehicle to the dealership as soon as possible for repairs.

David Caldwell

For more information about Toyota recalls, visit the website of sudden acceleration lawyers Williams Kherkher.

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BBC: Audi R8 Car Review vs Porsche 911 Carrera

2010-06-15T05:10:00.000-07:00

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Ford Fiesta Zetec Car Review

2010-06-15T05:04:00.000-07:00

By Melissa Pye

Driver Comfort & Visibility

Overall the visibility in the Zetec is good. There are only 2 areas of slight concern for vertically challenged people like me (Entertainment

This is worth a mention. Not only can you control your choice of tunes with a button on the steering wheel, but you can connect just about any portable music player including a USB stick, MP3 player and iPod. The Zetec also has a small screen located in the centre of the dash showing you what is playing.

Safety

It's no good looking sexy in your car if you're not safe. The Fiesta has you covered. ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution and front passenger and driverairbags are standard across the range. The Zetec also has Dynamic Stability Control, Emergency Brake Assist and head, thorax and driver knee airbags as standard. You can opt for these additional safety features on the other models for a small $1,000, which is well worth it.

Rear Passenger Comfort

It's not a huge car, so the back seat will not sit 3 burly blokes comfortably. But at least their noggins won't hit the roof thanks to the more than generous head space. However, if you're shipping around kids or small dogs, then space is not an issue.

Storage

Some good storage options for a car of this size. There are front door pockets which will hold a bottle of water, a good sized glove box and a small coin holder on the right hand side of the steering wheel. In the rear you'll also find pockets on the back of the front and passenger seats. It's got 3 good drinks holders that are well positioned in between the driver and passenger seats.

The boot is not huge, but you will easily fit in a gym bag and some shopping with the rear seats in use. We popped in 2 overnight suitcases and 2 brief cases with ease. If you need even more space, just fold the rear seat down.

Green Factor

Plenty of green news here. It consumes about 6 litres per 100kms, has a greenhouse rating of 7.5 out of 10 and has been awarded 4 stars by the GreenVehicleGuide. Cheap to run and not too harsh on the environment.

The Drive

We took the cars for a spin in the Adelaide Hills to really test its road holding, acceleration and braking. The Fiesta loved the hairy turns and steep inclines. It performed incredibly well and was a very fun car to drive. One very clever feature is its speed sensitive steering called Electronic Power Assisted Steering (EPAS). Basically the steering is lighter when you're going slower, like parking, and it firms up when travelling at speed, which gives it a sporty feel.

What We Love About the Fiesta

Healthy list of safety features, great audio system, iPod and MP3 player compatibility, blue tooth technology (in the Zetec) and the seat trim. You've got a choice of 11 exterior colours with a stand out lime metallic. And yes, we do love its styling. It's sporty, cheeky and a little bit sexy!

Test Drive Tips

The indicators are located on the left hand side of the steering column, thanks to its European origins. Not so bad if it's raining, but on a dry day you'll feel a bit of a goose putting on your wipers each time you go to use your indicators!

If you are thinking about test driving this car, you might also want to consider the Hyundai Getz, Kia Rio, Toyota Yaris, Suzuki Swift and Holden Barina.

Melissa Pye is an Australian pioneering the way women are valued in the automotive industry and works with leading auto brands to educate them on the needs of women. Her site, Her Car, is the only site in Australia where all of the new car reviews are written by women! When buying a new car or if you need any automotive information look to HerCar.

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Compact Car Reviews - Honda Civic Vs Honda Fit Vs Mini Cooper

2010-06-15T04:58:00.000-07:00

By Mike R Hampton

A lot of compact cars in the past years have been upgrading their cars and what better comfort they can give to the buyers is what brings them their boost in sale. Let me give you a few reviews on a few compact cars. Let me start with the Honda Civic. We can say that the Honda Civic has consistently great reviews with the comfortable interior, overall long- term reliability and the ride quality, which a lot of people say that it is quite fun to drive. It also has excellent fuel economy. The Honda Civic Si Model is known to accelerate quite well. It also has a strong resale value and have good safety ratings as well.

The only thing that doesn't fare well with the Honda Civic is that the well-equipped version is quite expensive. There is also a limited availability of some options. It's also a firm ride; due to the fact that some find it jarring in rough roads and the road noise can be heard from the inside.

The Honda Fit on the other hand, is the most highly regarded compact car in reviews. It is quite fun to ride on just as well as the Honda Civic. The handling is quite sporty and you get excellent fuel economy as well. The interior is well designed and flexible. It also has also good crash test results. This car though is not as affordable than most competitors. It's also has a leisurely acceleration with automatic. Like the Honda Civic it also has a firm ride and the road and engine noise can be heard.

Another car I'd like to point in your direction is the sporty compact car, which is the Mini Cooper. If you want an attractive and retro style car then this one is for you. It is very fun to drive this car and the handling is sporty just like the Honda Fit. It has a powerful, optional turbo engine and it also has excellent resale value.

It isn't that comfortable though. You get stiff, choppy ride when you are driving the Cooper. The interior is very tight and the rear seat is quite small, which would prove to be very uncomfortable. The cargo space is quite small as well. The dashboard control ergonomics and the options boost up the cost real fast. The Mini Cooper Clubman's rear doors actually obstruct rear visibility as well.

Mike has been working on cars and trucks since he got his first Olds 442 in the early 70's. Since then he was worked on many vehicles and is deeply interested in electronics and the new computer controls of todays vehicles. While it might seem they are limiting the DIY'r he thinks just the opposite. With the right OBDII Code Reader and Haynes repair Manual you can do far more than the days of screwdrivers and timing lights.

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Online Car Auctions - Best Tips to Find Your Dream Car in the Online Auctions at Dirt Cheap Prices

2010-06-08T05:49:00.001-07:00

By Francis Desilva

If you are planning to buy cheap used cars then you must think about the option of using online car auction websites. These websites provide you the opportunity of accessing the information about ongoing auctions across the country and provides you the chance of bidding for your favorite cars at the comfort of your home. Read further to discover the best way to get your dream luxury cars at dirt cheap prices at these online auctions.

Gone are those days of buying used cars in a traditional way. Now many people across the world are taking help of online auction websites which provides the information of all the latest ongoing government auctions in all the states at the same time. You can find variety of luxury cars at these government auctions from Ferrari, Mercedes, BMW to Cadillac, Acura and many other latest models.

There are some things which you need to remember like:

1) Verifying the authenticity of auction websites: There are very few legitimate websites which provides the real time updated information about all the ongoing car auctions. There are few government vehicle auctions websites which are considered to be legitimate and provides all the required information about the latest car auctions.

2) Check the terms and conditions: There are some websites which do not provide any money back guarantee. If you do not find the appropriate auctions then you are wasting your hard earned money. These websites charges a small fee to get access to their database. So you need to be thoroughly sure that these websites provides money back guarantee just in case you do not get satisfied results.

3) The information about the car models: There are variety of used luxury cars available in these types of auctions. The website provides all the latest information about the current state of these cars like information about accessories, mileage of the car, license information and other details. If these details are not available on the site then you need to find another website which provides all this data.

In my opinion, the government car auction websites are the best if you consider the above criteria. They provide all the necessary information and we can bid on any car from the comfort of our home. One more advantage of these websites is that very few people know about these sites. So you stand a very good chance to win your auction with minimum bid.

Want you favorite luxury car at dirt cheap price? Then join this best government online car auctions website today and win your car in few days. http://www.vbmarticles.com/online-car-auctions

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The Compact 2010 Volvo XC70 T6 Turbo Engine

2010-06-08T05:44:00.000-07:00

By Ronnie W Tanner

Volvo's XC70 crossover SUV offers a choice of two six-cylinder engines for 2010. The base 3.2 AWD has a normally aspirated 3.2-liter engine, while the T6 AWD comes standard with a turbocharged 3.0-liter version.

Both engines are part of Volvo's SI6 (short-inline 6) family, launched in 2006. Thanks to its unusual accessory drive layout, which mounts the power steering pump and air conditioning compressor behind the engine, the SI6 is one of the world's most compact inline sixes; its overall length is within a few millimeters of Volvo's earlier inline five. Both SI6 engines have a variable-length intake manifold, 24 valves, and dual overhead camshafts, with variable lift and timing for the intake cam.

Volvo rates the base XC70's 3.2-liter engine at 235 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Although it is smooth and very quiet, many critics find its power and torque unimpressive in the heavy XC70, providing only average acceleration. Fuel economy is not outstanding, either. The EPA rates the 3.2 AWD at 16/22 city/highway, and Volvo recommends premium fuel.

The T6 AWD's 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is similar to the 3.2, but with a smaller bore and stroke and a lower compression ratio. The 3.0-liter engine features an intercooled twin-scroll turbocharger, with a separate exhaust inlet for each set of three cylinders. The twin-scroll arrangement allows the turbo to 'spool up' much more quickly than a conventional turbocharger, reducing lag. Volvo rates the 3.0-liter engine at 281 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, and claims that it produces its maximum torque over a wide rev band, from 1,500 to 4,800 rpm. Reviewers say the turbocharged engine has almost no turbo lag, and it provides much stronger performance than its normally aspirated sibling. It is somewhat thirstier than the 3.2; EPA ratings are 16/21 city/highway, again on premium fuel.

Learn more about SWEngines.com with subjects such as Volvo XC70 Engine and other related areas of interest.

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Mercedes S Class - A New Era in Car Production

2010-06-01T04:56:00.000-07:00

By John Eva

Mercedes S Class is the newest of the sedan coupes to cause envy to the competition. Trying to seduce the up and coming business executives with this extremely beautiful sedan. Well, whether they succeed in gathering the age group they are seeking for business or not this is a sweet little automobile. With two trim packages and all sorts of optional extras this is an easily upgraded safe vehicle that also has reliability and durability of branding from the German makers.

This excellently built interior is not only stylish it is made for ease of use for the driver with incredible luxurious styling. The seats are stylish and comfortable, they feel like they are made to meld with your body as does the entire cockpit. The newest attraction added for those wanting to graduate from the want to be luxury class vehicles is the state of the art up to the minute system with the iPod or iPhone plug ins, navigation system, travel in style with a rock your world stereo and out of this universe sound quality.

Made for easy maneuvering around town to zip into parking spaces or easily park in a parallel spot this car is a dream to drive around town or on a long vacation. As with all of the Mercedes S class vehicles it is easy to see why this is indeed a special vehicle in a class all by itself. The quality construction of interior and exterior are nothing when you look under the hood. It has an unbelievable engine and transmission that will take you wherever you want to go in record time with style and grace only imagined by other automakers.

No matter where you are going in your career this car says you have arrived and look at me now. Anyone who ever aspired to be someone has to have this car. It screams, "I have arrived and I am a force to be reckoned with. Look at me now world". This is the luxury car you have always wanted and dreamed of. With a price tag of around 88,000 it is a statement that you have arrived in the world and you can be envied. Drive in style, drive with class and drive with confidence that the quality of the car will exceed even the highest expectations any driver might possibly have. Surround yourself with a choice vehicle.

When it comes to financing options you can count on several choices including purchasing, leasing and buyers choice. Financing the car with the recommended options from the Mercedes dealer is an excellent choice for the buyer who wants to get the best deal.

There is always the choice of utilizing a bank or credit union. As for other options there is leasing in one year to four years terms with various mileage options. This is a great deal for anyone interested in exchanging or upgrading to the latest newest vehicle every few years or someone who really doesn't take long trips or put a lot of mileage on a car during the course of a year.

Another option is to look into buyer's choice where the buyer turns the car in at the end of the term, or purchases it out right from the dealer or obtains financing from his own sources. This is a great option if you want to walk away free and clear at the end of a term without being upside down on a vehicle. Whatever way you want to own your vehicle the Mercedes S is an excellent vehicle to test drive and then fall for.

Written on behalf of Total Fleet Services by John Eva
Mercedes Leasing - Mercedes S Class Contract Hire

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Watch Out! Ten Tips to Avoid Unsafe Motorists

2010-06-01T03:56:00.000-07:00

By Nichole Luna

Any car wreck attorney can probably tell you plenty of stories of clients who knew something was wrong with the motorist who wrecked them them before it occurred. There are many times when people are on the road and a driver in the other lane or at an stoplight seems off. Sometimes it's obvious that they're drunk. They may be swerving, driving way too slow or too fast and so forth. In other instances, it's just obvious that they're not paying attention and that a wreck is imminent. There are some ways you can avoid these wreckless motorists. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

If someone accelerates up to a stop sign or stop light you are approaching, assume they are going to go past it. Never count on their brakes or their brains.

Watch out for drivers who are rummaging around the seat or glove box. They don't see you.

If a driver is obviously drunk, get out of their way. Pass if you have to or back off. Don't hesitate to call it in it in, either.

Don't make obscene gestures or start arguments with other drivers. All drivers on the road are armed with a multi-ton battering ram.

If someone is impelled to prevent you from merging or entering another lane, do not fight with them. Just let them get ahead and away from you.

If another person is following too closely, let the person to pass. Slow down to make it easy for them.

If someone is trying to harass you by tailgating, don't speed up to accommodate them. They'll just get even worse about it.

Always turn off your blinker after you turn. Not doing so means drivers behind you willdisregard it if you turn again.

Never go back to your home if you're being followed by an angry driver. Always go to a public place.

If you are hit, call your car crash attorney before you call the insurance company, always.

Many car accident personal injury attorneys see clients who have been wronged and injured because of the carelessness of others. While some justice can be served by getting due compensation for pain, suffering and sometimes debilitating injuries, avoiding the wreck altogether is always the best move. If you've done everything you can, however, and the driver still slams into you, make sure that you know, and exercise, your rights. There's no rationality to suffer unjustly.

Rasansky Law Firm is an award winning personal injury law firm based in Dallas, TX. If you feel that you need the help of an experienced attorney, contact Rasansky Law Firm today. Visit http://www.jrlawfirm.com or call 1-800-ATTORNEY for a free, no obligation case evaluation. The time to act is NOW!

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How to Effectively Remove Pet Hair From Your Car's Interior

2010-05-25T00:19:00.001-07:00

By Joe Mcdonald

Trying to remove pet hair from your cars interior can be a real chore, the hairs work their way in to the fibres of the upholstery and can often seem impossible to remove. Thankfully though there are a few techniques and items than can be used that will vastly decrease the time and effort it takes to remove them.

The first step to successfully removing pet hair is to vacuum off any loose hair, you shouldn't worry about trying to remove ingrained hair at this stage but just ensure that any loose and easily removable hair is vacuumed up. This simply helps to give you a head start on the next stage and will prevent an excess of hair from being moved around the interior and disturbed later on.

There are a vast range of pet hair removal tools available today ranging from brushes to sticky implements but the kind that is most effective is a rubber type brush. These tend to look like an average handheld brush but instead of normal bristles there are a number of rubber nodules that grip onto the hairs and effectively pull them out from the fibres of the upholstery.

After vacuuming up any loose hair the designated tool should be used to remove the ingrained pet hair. Begin working from the top areas of the upholstery moving downwards. Try to work one panel at a time, draw the tool down across the surface over and over until the hairs are pulled out from the fibres. You should be left with an accumulation of hair at the bottom or end of the area you have been working. Before moving onto the next area you should vacuum up the accumulated hairs you have just removed to prevent them from moving around the interior.

Depending on the kind of carpets and mats your car has, a rubber removal tool may not work as well on them as it does on the seating and other areas of the upholstery. Instead, it may be more effective to use a stiff bristled upholstery or detailing brush to agitate the pile of the carpets & mats, which will help to open them up and lift the hairs out. The area should then be vacuumed to remove the loose accumulation of hair.

If you cannot use a designated removal tool then a good way to pull hairs out from the fibres of the upholstery is to use rubber washing up gloves. Simply put one on and after vacuuming up any loose hairs work your hand from top to bottom or side to side over the area. The rubber glove will have a similar effect as a rubber brush tool and will grip on to the hairs effectively pulling them out. You can use this technique in conjunction with a bucket of water to rinse off the glove after working each section to remove any excess hair that may be stuck to it.

After removing the ingrained hair ideally you should re vacuum the interior to remove any stray hairs that you may have missed or moved around as you were working. A crevice tool type attachment should be used as this provides the best possible suction and can reach into tight and awkward areas.

By using these methods to remove the ingrained pet hairs you should be able to vastly decrease the amount of time and energy it takes to perform the task.

If You'd Like More Great Tips and Information To Help You With Your Car Cleaning Visit Car Cleaning Guru Today.

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Green Car Technology Proven to Save Gas

2010-05-25T00:13:00.000-07:00

By Emily Polanco

Without modifying your car's engine, or hiring a mechanic for expensive labor and parts costs, this website, Gas4Free, and its founders have found a way to convert water as a fuel source for any automobile. The procedure is a simple do-it-yourself project with easy to follow steps. The results are astounding.

As seen in Popular Science and Popular Mechanic magazines, thousands of people and many testimonials have been received with positive feedback. And with the website offering a 100% Guarantee, it seems worth it to try this new science.

This technology is nicknamed "HHO", because it uses a "fuel" made up of just the elements Hydrogen and Oxygen, meaning no exhaust fumes are emitted into the atmosphere, which can damage the environment. The HHO generator uses the electricity from your own car to produce the Hydrogen and Oxygen "gas". The "gas" is "burned" like the gasoline you purchase at the pump...the only difference being that after your vehicle uses the energy from the HHO, it converts back to water automatically! At no cost to nature...or your health, for that matter.

The HHO generator has been seen to improve the condition of car's engines, acting as a self-cleaning agent using the water to discard carbon deposits that have built up over time, leading to less engine noise, and smoother rides.

Testimonials appear to continually pour in from people with diesel engines, people who have doubled their car's existing gas mileage, or even from some individuals who have tripled their fuel mileage.

In addition, the offer comes with several bonuses, which are apparently worth quite a lot of savings themselves; some examples include tips on how to drive smarter in fuel efficiency, and even a book on how to get an IRS refund for using a green technology!

In conclusion, as an environmentally-active and concerned citizen, I have found the Gas4Free system compelling enough to try, and would also like to see the results myself, seeing as it has rave reviews, and has even been published.

Emily is a young author committed to reviewing the latest green, environmentally-friendly innovations, as well as other areas of personal interest.

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Top Gear: BBC: Lotus Exige Car Review with Apache Helicopter Gunship - Top Gear

2010-05-18T01:26:00.000-07:00

Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond introduce the new Lotus Exige, specifically engineered for America. See Jeremy's test drive and review of it here, as compared to the Apache helicopter - literally.

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The Nissan Navara - How is it As a Ride?

2010-05-18T01:20:00.000-07:00

By Maurice Manhattan

As a double cab, Nissan navara has an advantage over others when it comes to car size. And though, it is not always true that bigger is better, when it comes to vehicles specifically for loads, it definitely make sense. Because of that, it had been favored by many who are looking for vehicle that is truly apt for work.

Basically, it is built in Spain. It is of the same production line with Pathfinder, one of those to which it is being often compared with. As it is very important today to wisely pick the car that you will be having, it is being dubbed as the best that you can have as it is being claimed to combine both luxury and quality.

However, there would always be two sides in a story. If there are those who favor and appreciate it, naturally, there are also those who got negative things to say about it. That is just normal though as no car is really perfect. There would always be flaws and drawbacks that can be seen in different perspectives.

If you can live through the drawbacks of Nissan Navara though, it can be a very useful pick up to use. One of its strengths is the fact that it is a spacious car that can carry quite a load. It is very much suitable to businesses and other specific tasks as moving furniture and transferring products.

To know how great or not-so great of a ride is Nissan Navara is, it is important to check on its features and capabilities. There are three points that can be used as basis of the judgment.

Load Space - As been mentioned earlier, it has a more space for loads than other double cabs. It even has an additional feature of self-locking cleats for securing loads. This keeps from rolling about from one to another which can possibly cause damages.

Appearance and Features - Though Nissan Navara is one that can be considered as a workhorse of a vehicle, it has a nice exterior and interior design. It is of smooth silhouette with fog light, roof rail, automatic headlights and washer and even electric windows and mirrors. Inside, it had upholstered seats, CD player, bluetooth connectivity, remote central locking and even satellite navigation. And so it can basically provide the comfort and convenience other luxury cars can give.

Engine - Generally, Nissan Navara is not really a quiet car. However, its engine is more powerful than other of its category. And though it runs in diesel, it can be pretty powerful.

As a summary, the Navara has both advantages and disadvantages but the former outweighs the latter. Though it is more of a car of functionality, it is able to provide luxury and comfort to its passengers. And with that, Nissan Navara makes quite an impressive ride.

Nissan Navara has an impressive record for a ride. Know more about it you can be sure that you are opting for a double cab of truly high quality.

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How to Care For a Convertible Soft Top

2010-05-18T01:04:00.000-07:00

By Will Smidth

Convertibles are indeed an excellent way to travel and to enjoy the weather. If you own and enjoy driving a soft-top convertible like Jaguar XK or a Chrysler Sebring or any other, it is necessary to know how to maintain the soft tops. Most modern soft-tops are available in either vinyl or cloth material only.

When you are cleaning your convertible top, make sure to use genuine products that have been specially manufactured to care for soft top convertibles. It is suggested that you clean your soft top once every six months. However, if you do not park your vehicle in a closed garage, you may have to clean the convertible top once every three months.

There are a few products you may need to buy for the upkeep of the soft top including sponges or a soft brush, convertible top cleaner, vinyl window cleaner, soft towel, and painters tape. Make it as point not to wash your convertible top in direct sunlight and also ensure the convertible top is not too hot before you begin washing.

Tape off the area surrounding the rag-top, to make sure the Soft Top cleaner does not reach any painted area. Apply the cleaner to the rag-top and allow some time for it to settle. This protects the car from light showers (though not heavy downpours) and keeps dirty water from getting into the fabric.

Once you wet the convertible top, you should spray a thin layer of cleaner on the top, and then take the sponge and begin to gently wipe away any dirt and debris. Then, wash the cleaner off without using any towels but only with water spray. You will know that the cleaner has been sufficiently washed off when there is only clean water running off of the top.

If your roof is wet, do not restore it into its bay until it dries. If you put the wet fabric into its dark bay, bacteria will grow and the material will form fungus and begin to decay. It is advisable to keep your car off the road during winter. The salt on the roads kicks up and can damage the roof. If the material becomes dirty, use a carpet dust extractor to remove the dirt. Never use penetrating vinyl preservatives, dry-cleaning solvents, hot water, harsh cleansers, bleaches or abrasives while cleaning soft tops. Any product used to clean should be gentle and any product chosen to protect your top should be specifically designed for your style of top.

Soft top convertible usually come with plastic/vinyl windows and as such avoid all glass cleaners. There are many cleaners available in the market to clean vinyl windows. It is important to use these cleaners because they will also help remove any hairline scratches and will keep the plastic/vinyl from losing color.

Once you complete washing the soft top of your convertible, never let the top down until it is completely dry. Otherwise, there will be build up of mildew and bacteria, which can damage a soft top.

To make the soft tops last longer, follow the instructions in the owner manual that comes with the vehicle. Do not down the top during nights or whenever else you will not be driving. This will help retain the original shape of the top, resist shrinkage and avoid crease marks.

Will Smidth is a SEO copywriter for Auto soft top. He has written many articles in various topics such as Convertible tops, Auto seat covers, Auto replacement tops, Auto interiors, and more. For more information visit our site topsandseats.com and Contact him through mail at topsandseat@gmail.com

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Mercedes Alloy Wheels - Read Before You Buy

2010-05-11T00:48:00.001-07:00

By Ethan Hill

The alloy wheels of your Mercedes car extremely important not only because it defined the aesthetics of your extremely important and expensive purchase but also because alloy wheels are largely responsible for the cars safety as well as performance. Not only that, but Mercedes alloy wheels also go to a great extent in defining how your car handles. While the handling may not be such a big issue when you're driving a smaller car, it can mean the difference between having an accident and not at high speeds especially with high-performance automobiles such as your Mercedes.

Mercedes alloys are a pet passion of not only car enthusiasts but also sportsmen as well as people who take their Mercedes out on the track. Because of how exquisitely most sports cars are made nowadays it is vital that you have a good and well manufactured set of alloys on your Mercedes car.

One of the biggest benefits of installing these wheels that is often overlooked is that the construction methods used in the manufacturing of the wheel allow it to improve the heat dissipation from the car breaks since the materials used are much better conductors of heat. This translates into a longer lifespan for your brakes; which for most high-performance Mercedes cars are extremely expensive to replace.

Mercedes alloy wheels were first used in the many races that the company engaged in as they greatly improve the performance of the car by cutting down on the kerb weight of the vehicle. And like many innovations that the company brought about it was later adapted to increase the performance of street legal Mercedes automobiles.

Mercedes Alloy Wheels

Tires to get the Most out of Your Vehicle. Visit Today.

http://www.mercedesalloywheels.org

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The 2011 Fiat 500

2010-05-11T00:40:00.000-07:00

By Geof Ryan

The 2011 Fiat 500 will be offered in the market during the initial months of the year 2011 as per the current plans. The delay has been mainly due to the fact that the designers in the Italy and U.S are taking long enough in redesigning/rebuilding the tools that are to be used for the production of the 2011 Fiat 500.

As far as the price of the vehicle is concerned, the Fiat 500 will cost about $16,000 in Italy, whereas the basic variant of the BMW Mini is just $6,000 in the American markets. The front end of the car is snub nosed and it has a relatively short bonnet.

The circular upper headlights along with the full beam lights in the down region are pretty interesting to look at. From the side view, the car looks like a squatter with its B-pillars and low roof line. The exterior design is also a bit different with sharply visible tail-lights along with the chrome handle, which bear the '500' logo of the car.

The boot space can be increased up to the 550 cc by folding the back seats from its original value of 185 cc. It is a real surprise that this small car can provide such spacious leg room. It will be offered in wide varieties o colors such as Mediterranean Blue, Ivory color and Pale White. The 2011 Fiat 500 will be offered in three trim levels - the Longue, Pop and Sport.

Here are some of the coolest Fiat 500 Wallpapers

To check out the latest Fiat Car Wallpapers Click-Here

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Front Vs Rear Wheel Drive

2010-04-27T03:11:00.000-07:00

By Bond Mejeh

One decision that is always faced when buying a new car is, "Should I get rear wheel or front wheel drive?" Well, here are some things to consider when answering that question. Most cars today are designed with front wheel drive as they're typically safer, where you'll find that commonly sports & race cars are packing rear wheel drive.

First things first, if your car is front wheel drive, this means the engine powers the front wheels, so the front wheels is what powers the vehicle along. Rear wheel drive is when the engine powers only the rear wheels causing them to push the vehicle along. The main difference is the fact that front wheel types are easier to handle, especially for beginner drivers.

Rear wheel types can be a bit more difficult as the car tends to over turn when cutting sharp corners, that is, unless you specifically know how to handle these vehicles. However, with front wheel drive, the car can do the opposite and under turn if taking a corner too sharp. In the end, they are easier to control than the over turning of rear wheel drive.

Another good thing about the front wheel type is that the engines tend to be smaller, giving more room for the inside of the car and giving the car less weight to pull, thus giving you better gas mileage. This is due to the fact that in a rear wheel drive car, an extra engine compartment is usually installed in the back of the car where, of course, it is used to power and push the back wheels along. The placement of the engine in the front of the car also helps with traction especially in rainy or snowy conditions, as the increased front weight helps give the tires traction on the road. However, if trying to go up a hill, it doesn't provide as much traction, as there is nothing pushing the car from the back. This is where a rear wheel types can become more helpful. Another bad thing is that the CV joints in front wheels tend to wear out quicker because there is more weight consistently being applied to the front of the car and those two front tires. The universal joints used in rear wheels do last longer as the entire weight of the car isn't always bearing down on them while driving.

As you can see, both front and rear wheel drive have their pros and cons, but over all front wheel drive is the safest way to go; especially for those less experienced drivers.

Bond Mejeh produces automotive related articles for Quick Cash Auto, a cash for cars service. Quick Cash Auto not only buys pre-owned vehicles of any year, make or model, but they also provide numerous articles about vehicle repair and automotive news.

Please visit http://www.QuickCashAuto.com for more information and be sure to check out our automotive blog.

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Enzo Ferrari - Owner of Ferrari Motors

2010-04-27T03:06:00.000-07:00

By Wilbert F Jimenez

Born in Emilia-Romagna, and raised in Modena, Italy, Enzo Ferrari grew up with tiny formal education but an intense desire to race vehicles. During World War I he used to be a mule-skinner in the Italian military. His grandfather, Alfredo, died in 1916 as a result of a widespread Italian flu outbreak. Enzo became sick himself and was therefore discharged from Italian service. On coming back home he discovered that the family firm had collapsed. Having no other job prospects he sought unsuccessfully to find work at Fiat and at last settled for a smaller automobile company called CMN redesigning used van bodies into small, passenger automobiles. He took up racing in 1919 on the CMN team, but had tiny 1st success.

He left CMN in 1920 to work at Alfa Romeo and racing their autos in local races he had more success. In 1923, racing in Ravenna, he bought the Prancing Horse badge which decorated the fuselage of Francesco Baracca's (Italy's leading ace of WWI) SPAD fighter, given from his ma, taken from the wreckage of the airplane after his confusing death. This icon would need to wait till plastered on a racing vehicle. In 1924 he won the Coppa Acerbo at Pescara. His successes in local races inspired Alfa to offer him an opportunity of much more celebrated competition and he was lauded by Mussolini. Ferrari turned this opportunity down and in a funk he did not race again until 1927 and even then his racing career was often over. He continued to work without delay for Alfa Romeo until 1929 before beginning Scuderia Ferrari as the racing team for Alfa.

Ferrari managed the development of the factory Alfa cars, and built up a gang of over forty drivers, including Giuseppe Campari and Tazio Nuvolari. Ferrari himself continued racing until the birth of his first child in 1932 (Alfredo Ferrari, known as Dino, who died in 1956).

The support of Alfa Romeo lasted until 1933 when finance restrictions made Alfa withdraw. Only at the intervention of Pirelli did Ferrari receive any automobiles at all. Despite the standard of the Scuderia drivers the company won few victories ( 1935 in Germany by Nuvolari was a notable exception). Auto Union and Mercedes controlled the era.

In 1937 Alfa took control of its racing efforts again, reducing Ferrari to Director of Sports under Alfa's engineering director. Ferrari shortly left, but a contract clause prohibited him from racing or planning for 4 years.

He set up Auto-Avio Costruzioni, a company supplying parts to other racing teams. But in the Mille Miglia of 1940 the company manufactured 2 automobiles cars to compete, driven by Alberto Ascari and Lotario Rangoni. During WW2 his firm was involved in war production and following bombing moved from Modena to Maranello. It wasn't until after World War II that Ferrari tried to shed his nazi reputation and make autos bearing his name, founding today's Ferrari S.p. A. In 1945.

The 1st open-wheeled race was in Turin in 1948 and the 1st victory came later in the year in Lago di Garda. Ferrari participated in the Formula 1 World Championship since its introduction in 1950 but the 1st victory was not until the UK Grand Prix of 1951. The first championship came in 1952-53, when the Formula One season was raced with Formula 2 autos. The company also sold production sports cars to to finance the racing endeavours not only in Grand Prix but also in events like the Mille Miglia and Le Mans. Indeed plenty of the firm's greatest victories came at Le Mans ( fourteen victories, including six in a row 1960-65 ) instead of in Grand Prix, actually the company was more concerned there than in Formula One during the 1950s and 1960s regardless of the successes of Juan-Manuel Fangio ( 1956 ), Mike Hawthorn ( 1958 ), Phil Hill (1961) and John Surtees ( 1964 ).

In the 1960s the issues of reduced demand and insufficient financing forced Ferrari to allow Fiat to take a position in the company. Ford had tried to buy the firm in 1963 for US$18 million but had been declined. The company became joint-stock and Fiat took a tiny share in 1965 and then in 1969 they increased their holding to 50% of the company. (In 1988 Fiat's holding was increased to 90%).

Ferrari remained managing director until 1971. Despite stepping down he remained an influence over the firm till his death. The input of Fiat took some time to have effect. It was not till 1975 with Niki Lauda the firm won any championships with Niki Lauda that the talent of the driver and the the ability of the engine conquering the inadequacies of the chassis and aerodynamics. But after those successes and the promise of Jody Scheckter title and the corporation's Formula One championship hopes dropped into the doldrums. 1982 opened with a strong fell into the 126C2, world-class drivers, and promising results robust vehicle, the early races.

However, Gilles Villeneuve was finished in the 126C2 in May, and teammate Didier Pironi had his career cut short in a violent end over end flip on the foggy backstraight at Hockenheim in August. Pironi was leading the driver's flip on the time; he would lose the lead as he sat out the leftover races. The team would not see championship glory again during Ferrari's lifetime.

Enzo Ferrari died in Modena in 1988 at the age of 90 at the beginning of the dominance of the McLaren Honda combination. The sole race which McLaren did the start of the Italian Grand Prix - this was held just weeks after Enzo's death, and, suitably, the result was a 1-2 finish for Ferrari, with Gerhard Berger leading home Michele Alboreto. After Enzo's death, thee Scuderia Ferrari team has had further success, notably with Michael Schumacher from 1996-2005.

Made a Cavaliere del Lavoro in 1952, to add to his honours of Cavaliere and Commendatore in the 1920s, Enzo also received a number of honorary degrees, the Hammarskjld Cavaliere del Lavoro in 1962, the Columbus Prize in 1965, and the De Gasperi Award in 1987. In 1994, he was posthumously inducted into the Global Motorsports Hall of Fame. Enzo famously used purple ink in his fountain pen, though the reason posthumously inducted into this remains unclear.

After the passing of his child, Alfredo "Dino" Ferrari, Enzo wore sunglasses just about every day to laud his son.

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Honda's new CR-Z hybrid

2010-04-20T11:01:00.000-07:00

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How to Sell Your Used Car - Effective Car Sale Techniques

2010-04-20T10:56:00.000-07:00

By Larmour Tan

Is the depreciation and maintenance of your car too high? Or do you simply want to change your car? If you find yourself nodding your head to any of the questions, you probably need to sell off your car. The burning question is, how do you plan sell it?

Below are two of the conventional routine car sellers take.

1) Sell to used car dealers

2) Sell to direct end-consumers

1) Sell to used car dealers

This is the most common way to sell off a used vehicle - selling your car to a dealer. After all, a dealer will buy nearly any car you place in front of him. Even if your car is scratched, dented, or smashed, car dealers have their ways to recondition it and sell it off.

When selling to dealers, it is advisable to check with a few dealers on the selling price. There are many tactics that dealers use to lure their sellers. One common way is to quote a price way above the market price. After the seller has rejected all other reasonable offers from other dealers, the dealer reduces his original offer and the seller will be stuck with a lousy offer.

Pros

Selling to a dealer is absolutely hassle-free. (If your price is sufficiently low, they may provide door-step service and serve you as if you are some kind of royalty.) Dealers handle all the documentation of the sale and provide you with cash payment.

Selling to a dealer is safe and simple. With a few phone calls, your car is sold.

Cons

The single biggest disadvantage of selling to the dealer is the relatively low price offered. Dealers act like middlemen and are making a profit on your vehicle. Typically, each used car will have to generate at least $2,000 profit, else it would be uneconomical for the dealer to buy it from the seller. The profit will account for the dealers' overheads such as rental, salesman salary, and their other bills. In addition, they face the risk of uncertain market conditions which may translate into deficits if they are unable to sell the car off.

One must always be careful when signing any document with a used car dealer. They are very experienced in the complex field of motor trade, and you can easily be short-changed. You should always insist on all verbal agreements to be written down.

2) Sell to direct end-consumers

With more automated filing systems implemented by the government, owner-to-owner sale is a growing alternative for many owners to sell their vehicles nowadays. The legal documentation process has been streamlined, and the presence of many online platforms, connect buyers with sellers directly without the need for middlemen.

For such cases, the seller will need to advertise his car for sale, arrange for viewing and test-drives, then proceed with the documentation to transfer the vehicle ownership.

Pros

By eliminating the dealer, car owners can fetch a higher selling price as compared to if they sell it to a dealer. This is the sole advantage, but also a very significant one. After all, the aim of selling your car is to get the highest price possible.

Cons

When conducting a owner-to-owner sale, all the administrative work will have to be settled by the seller and buyer. The seller has to cancel his insurance and pay his loan in full. If the buyer requires a loan, the seller may also need to help him to secure a loan to seal the deal.

Time and money could be wasted if no one respond to your car ads. Several viewing and test-drives does not necessarily lead to a successful sale. Selling a car is not an easy feat.

Mishaps may take place during an owner-to-owner deal. There is a chance that the seller may not have the necessary documents for the transfer. Perhaps, he may not be well-versed with the exact procedure to make the transfer of ownership - making payment; transferring the ownership; collecting the car. It is crucial that the seller knows his stuff to ensure a smooth flow for the transfer of ownership. It is not uncommon for ill-informed sellers encounter difficulties during this process.

Author is a writer for http://www.sgCarMart.com, specialising in car articles concerning used car sales. He is also a regular car blog contributor.

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BMW 1 Series is a Rear Wheel Drive?

2010-04-20T10:52:00.000-07:00

By Larmour Tan

I am awfully sorry BMW, but all your efforts to try and convince yourselves that those who bought your 1-series are avid driving enthusiasts have failed. BMW had built the 1-series with the intention of spreading their gospel of the 'ultimate driving machine' and part of that picture they painted was the fact that rear wheel drive would be part of the recipe to build such a machine. However, it has now been revealed in a statement made by BMW CEO Norbert Reithofer during a telephone interview session with journalists that 80% of the people who bought the 1-series thought that it was a front wheel drive. For those of you reading this, if you are part of the 80% that have been mentioned above, I have the civic duty to inform you that the BMW 1-series is a Rear Wheel Drive.

I mean honestly, I would expect the people who are buying the 1-series to read the brochure that informs them of the specifications of the car. Or perhaps to make the effort to go through the owner's manual after they have purchased the car. I guess, in a way, this is an unfortunate news. I think this is the reason BMW do not go around with the 'ultimate driving machine' statement anymore. If you look at their website, it now states 'Sheer Driving Pleasure' or 'Joy is Driving'. Nowhere does it state that BMW makes the ultimate driving machines anymore. I suppose this is justly so as no one actually buys BMWs to drive anymore. These people actually don't even care about 'sheer driving pleasure' or 'joy is driving'. They buy BMWs for the badge and ironically, even BMW knows about this.

They know this as they're producing gargantuan SUV-coupes like the X6M or the X5M. These are two vehicles for people who just want the 'M' badge but don't actually like driving really fast. I say this because no matter how fast or powerful an SUV is, the car with the same engine and drive train, would be able to out handle any performance SUVs regardless of the situation. Then they sell the entry level 1-series to people who are just looking for a BMW and do not actually ask which wheels drive the car in the first place. Apparently, it looks like the actual fast driving enthusiasts aren't driving BMWs anymore.

And that folks is why BMW has recently announced during that same telephone interview that they intend to build front wheel drive BMWs by 2014. It is not that they have decided to join the front wheel drive bandwagon. It's just that to 1-series owners, or future BMW entry level owners, what wheels drive the car is immaterial. They just want in on the brand. Maybe BMW should change their taglines to 'FWD? RWD? AWD? Who cares? It's a BMW' or 'Joy of owning the Ultimate Badge'.

This is, beyond a doubt, another sad day for true blue driving enthusiasts.

The author visits car forum habitually and is a regular writer on a car blog.

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Car Reliability Data

2010-04-20T10:47:00.000-07:00

Running a car these days is expensive enough but might your choice of manufacturer have an effect on your year-on-year running costs also? Each year, Which? car produce realiability data for car manufacturers by surveying over 90'000 used car owners. You might expect to see the German manufacturers near the top but then again you might be surprised.

Brand	Country	Score (%)
Source: Which? Car
Honda	Japan	85
Toyota	Japan	84
Daihatsu	Japan	83
Lexus	Japan	83
Mazda	Japan	83
Subaru	Japan	83
Suzuki	Japan	83
Hyundai	Korea	80
Mitsubishi	Japan	80
Porsche	Germany	80
Mini	UK	78
Nissan	Japan	78
Ford	USA	78
BMW	Germany	78
Skoda	Czech Republic	78
Kia	Korea	78
Proton	Malaysia	78
Mercedes Benz	Germany	78
Audi	Germany	78
Jaguar	UK	78
Vauxhall	UK	75
Citroen	France	75
Volvo	Sweden	75
Volkswagen	Germany	75
Peugeot	France	75
Smart	Germany	75
Chevrolet	USA	75
Daewoo	Korea	75
Jeep	USA	75
Saab	Sweden	73
SEAT	Spain	73
MG	UK	73
Alfa Romeo	Italy	73
Rover	UK	70
Fiat	Italy	69
Renault	France	68
Land Rover	UK	67
Chrysler/Dodge	USA	67

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Great Deals on Driving Days Out

2010-04-06T07:29:00.000-07:00

Autoglass Will fix Your Car Window For Free

2010-04-06T07:23:00.000-07:00

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Range of Aston Martins Luxury Sports Cars

2010-04-06T07:16:00.000-07:00

By David Finlay

Despite this legacy, each sports car is a product of the latest technology. The latest designs aided by computers and engineering facilities create new cars that can be the pride of generations. If you want to own an Aston Martin, you can be assured that you are not just getting the illustrious name but also the kind of technology that rules the road. Here are some of the cars on the Aston Martin range worth knowing about...

The Aston DBS is a luxury sports car that brings the road and the track closer together. It is versatile enough to be used in winding mountain roads or on flat and open city roads. The DBS is powered by a 6 liter V12 engine and its aerodynamic design leaves no room for compromise for on-road performance. It is a two-seater car that boasts of elegant interiors in hand-finished materials. It can easily be said to be Aston Martin's sports car or luxury that uses elegant design, race-derived and inspired materials and components and also an innovative manufacturing process.

The DB9 is considered to be the grand tourer. It can be great as a DB9 Coupe or a DB9 Volante. All three offer top character, luxury, driver involvement and refinement. The DBS Volante completes the DBS lineup. It features a motorized fabric roof that easily retracts upon command. You can feel exhilarated or in a safe ambiance depending on when you want your roof up or down. Of course, as an Aston Martin DBS, its sports features are top rate.

The Rapide is a four-seater sports car that can only be described as luxuriously sporty. As a hand-crafted sorts car, it is elegant in looks and outstanding in performance. Despite its being a high-end sports car, it is agile and versatile enough for everyday use.

The V12 vantage uses a 6 liter V12 engine. It has top speed of 190 mph. This latest Vantage exudes unique character and is developed for pure driving enjoyment. As an Aston, it uses materials and components that are race developed and inspired.

David Finlay writing about new range of Aston Martin cars. Buy Aston Martin and consider the Aston Martin DB9 car.

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Should You Buy a New Or Used Car?

2010-03-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

By Novak Wolfe

There are many considerations for purchasing a new vehicle. For example, which model is best? How much gas mileage do you desire? What colors, fabrics, electronics or other features am I most interested in? Are you looking for one that is just for you or are you acquiring something for an emerging or growing family? Once you have decided to get rid of your old clunker and go for something newer, perhaps one of the most difficult to make decisions is whether to buy a used or new model. This decision can guide the rest of your purchase choices.

When making the decision to buy a car right off the production line or one that has already been cared for by someone else, you should mull over your budget first. For those with limited cash, purchasing a used car can typically get you more bang for your buck. There are very few new cars that are listed for less than $10,000 so this is an important consideration.

A new car or truck can offer many great features including reduced maintenance and extended warranty coverage. However, for the price, you can typically purchase a like-new car with great reliability and more features. If you are thinking about a luxury type, a pre-owned version might be a great way to get the car you desire without breaking the bank.

There are even some program vehicles at your local dealer than are the best of both worlds. Typically only driven by the dealer for a few thousand miles, these cars, trucks and sports utility vehicles are deeply discounted and offer all of the perks of a newer model. Additionally, certain automakers offer certified pre-owned programs. These automobiles have undergone rigorous inspections and sometimes come with a better warranty. For trouble-free driving, get an extended warranty. It will give you peace of mind while on the road so you don't have to worry the next time your car talks.

For trouble-free driving, get an extended auto warranty. It will give you peace of mind while on the road so you don't have to worry the next time your car talks. For more information, visit National Auto Guardian.

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The Latest Renault Cars

2010-03-29T09:32:00.000-07:00

By Craig Ellyard

Renault have now been producing cars for over a century and they continue to maintain their reputation for launching quality vehicles for the British motorist to this very day.

Among the new range of Renault cars is the Twingo, the brand's own super-mini. It is a sports styled vehicle with plenty of space in its interior. There are options to personalise the Twingo. Also in the range is the GT and Renaultsport.

Another vehicle with a very sporty style is the new Clio. This car comes as either a three-door or five-door, and provides plenty of room for passengers. This elegant car also boasts the new Carminat TomTom integrated satellite navigation system right across the range.

And if you want a car that is both versatile and adaptable the newly designed Kangoo could be the vehicle for you. The new model has airbags for driver and passenger, two sliding doors, headlights with "see me home" function, a folding front passenger seat, overhead storage compartments and a multi-position parcel shelf.

The new Renault slogan is "Time for a change" and it could be time or you to change to the new Megane range. The Megane Coupe boasts a sports chassis as standard as well as the technical equipment to ensure you enjoy the safest of rides. Also in the Megane range is the Sports Tourer, Coupe Cabriolet and Hatch, all with the style, fuel efficiency and safety features that the Renault brand is renowned for.

The company is also leading the rest of the pack with its majestic range of 4x4s. The new Grand Scenic seven-seater is ideal for the hectic lifestyle of the modern family. And if you want comfort with robustness and perfect styling the Koleos 4x4 Crossover is just the ticket.

Want a car that gives both space and comfort, is easy on fuel consumption and tops the league for safety? Then the Modus or Grand Modulus could be the Renault car for you. The Modus gained Five Stars in the Euro NCAP awards and also won the Small MPV category in the Green Car Awards in 2009.

In Renaults enticing range of coupes, they have produced a car of class with the Laguna. The Laguna is packed with features such as its satin coloured centre console, an integrated Carminat TomTom satellite navigation system complete with joystick, Bi-Xenon headlights with washers, rear parking sensors and automatic parking brake. And looks wise the Laguna highlights the exceptional design of Renault cars.

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New Nissan 370z

2010-03-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

The lighter and more powerful Nissan 370Z coupe is finally here. From first impressions, Nissan have created a very sleek and curvy car that would definitely catch people eye as it drove down the road. Top Gear also rates the New 370Z saying 'We approve. Slightly shorter and wider than the 350Z, the 370Z gets a bunch of added sleekness and, we reckon, more than a hint of GT-R about it.'

Power comes from the familiar 3.7 litre VQ37VHR V6 (VHR indicating Very High Revving) that makes 332 bhp (247kW), 270 lb-ft (366 Nm) of torque and revs all the way to 7000rpm.

The 370Z Roadster features the same 3.7L V6 as the coupe version. Powered by a 3.7-Litre V6 coupled with a 6-speed close-ratio manual gear box, the 2009 NISSAN NISMO 370Z is able to unleash 350 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 RPM. This kind of performance is also achieved thanks to Nissan's Variable Valve Event and Lift system, the micro-finished crankshaft and camshaft and the NISMO-tuned larger diameter dual exhaust pipes. Power goes from the close ratio six-speed manual 'box (the only transmission available) to the rear axle through a carbon fibre driveshaft.

Steering is communicative and responsive. In nearly all circumstances, we'd describe the Camaro's handling attitude as completely neutral, a characteristic that gives the car an exceptionally agile feel. Steering control is handled through a power-steering rack-style configuration. The 370Z has power-assisted brakes, with 4-Wheel ABS support.

The rear lights are styled like a boomerang flick, rather than the elongated triangle of today's car. There's also a central fog light, two big exhaust pipes and a hint of a rear diffuser at the rump.

Inside the 370Z you'll find the familiar dashboard layout, but the quality of all materials has been improved. One item that stands out here is a hard-to-read engine-temperature/fuel level gauge, which is basically a metallic plate with a bunch of small holes in it. Inside, there's leather splashed around the cabin even when specified with cloth seats and plastics are an improvement over the outgoing model.

Touring models include unique leather-appointed "net" seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver's seat (4-way power on the passenger's seat). These second-generation net seats are exclusive to the Z Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions. Touring models include unique leather-appointed "net" seats with 4-way power/4-way manual operation on the driver's seat (4-way power on the passenger's seat). These second-generation net seats are exclusive to the Z Roadster and have integrated heating and cooling functions - ideal for open air driving no matter what the outside temperature.

The Nissan 370Z is defiantly a very stylish looking car, add in better performance in every aspect, better looks, and better materials and build quality inside and out and you will agree that this is a set of very hot wheels. So much so that the motoring magazine 'Auto Express' compared the 370Z Roadster to a Porsche Cayman, and over all rated the new Nissan 370Z as the better car, however it doesn't carry the sporting prestige badge of a Porsche.

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The New Ford Ka

2010-03-23T05:20:00.000-07:00

The New Ford Ka is marketed as a small car with big ideas, fun-loving and spontaneous, the Ford Ka lives for the moment. Ford is particularly good at making cars that leave a grin on your face at the end of a journey. And the new Ka does exactly that.

The New Ford Ka is marketed as a small car with big ideas, fun-loving and spontaneous, the Ford Ka lives for the moment. Ford is particularly good at making cars that leave a grin on your face at the end of a journey. And the new Ka does exactly that.

The old model has successfully kept at bay all of its rivals, and has consistently remained the UK's top-selling sub-mini car. When it was launched 12 years' ago, the original Ka had only four rivals, and the sector accounted for just 4 per cent of the UK market.

The new Ford Ka is receiving excellent reviews from the media and was recently previewed on BBC's Top Gear showing itself as a real winner.

There is a new 1.2-litre 68bhp petrol engine which Ford claims has cut fuel consumption by 21 per cent compared to the previous 1.3-litre Ka. This also puts the Ka into group B road tax banding, which means you pay only £35 a year. Insurance groups start from a first time driver friendly group 1.

The new Ford Ka is to keep the compact structure characteristic of the older version of the model and, the producer hopes, is likewise going to become as popular among users as the previous version. In the course of 12-years production of the older Ford Ka 1.4 billion cars were produced.

New Jaguar XJ Series

2010-03-23T05:15:00.000-07:00

The world has been eagerly awaiting the arrival of the all new Jaguar XJ and now it's finally here.

At Jaguar it has been their mission to create and build beautiful fast cars. The XK, XF, X-TYPE and now the all new Jaguar XJ they say “brings the exhilaration of driving to life”. The new XJ was unveiled on 9 July 2009; however it won't actually hit the Jaguar forecourts for a few more months yet, although the dealerships are registering people's interest now to keep them updated with the launch.

A quick historical recap of the Jaguar XJ - The Jaguar XJ is a luxury saloon sold under the British Jaguar marque. The XJ was launched in 1968 and has served as the Jaguar flagship model for most of its production span which continues through to today. The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have had the input of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder.

Carrying through the visual style of the recently released XF saloon and XFR sports car, this radical XJ is aimed squarely at a new generation of Jaguar buyers. An innovative new panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ's design concept, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.

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Audi TT Sports Car Review

2010-03-16T07:05:00.000-07:00

By CJ Carter

If you are looking for bold styling, sophistication, and performance in a small coupe then the Audi TT is a strong candidate. In the world or Porsche Boxters, BMW Z4's, and Benz SLK's the Audi TT takes on a totally different look, while still managing to be quite cool.

The Audi TT's MSRP ranges between roughly 35,000 to $46,000 for a top of the line model. It comes in the coupe or roadster body style. With its upscale interior, the TT comes in all wheel drive, with a smooth sequential shift manual transmission found in most of today's modern sports cars. The Audi TT is totally redesigned from the ground up for 2008. The TT has a new four cylinder engine. It also has been designed with extensive use of aluminum to reduced the curb weight in comparison with previous models of the car.

Just like previous incarnations of the vehicle, the TT relies on a turbocharged four cylinder or a naturally aspirated V6. The four cylinder is a new design by the six cylinder was carried over from the older models. With an all new suspension as well as electronic assisted steering the handling of the new TT should be a noted improvement over older models. In a Porsche-esque manner the rear spoiler rises at highway speeds on the new TT. The TT's interior still has a 2+2 design. It really should be a 2+ throw your jacked or your bag in the backseat because no real human could fit. There are a lot of different choices on the market when you are looking in the small sports car class but the TT is in a class of its own.

I hope you enjoyed reading this article and look forward to your continued readership. When I'm not busy writing on things that interest me I retail clothing, accessories, and self help products.
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Honda CRV

2010-03-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Honda CRV Petrol and Diesel models
The Honda CRV was introduced in 2003 to take over from the previous model available whose roots can be traced bck to 1996. The Honda CRV is a sports utility vehicle (SUV) and is available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines. This article details the Honda CRV SUV, specifications and options, where to buy new and used Honda CRVs and running costs.

The Honda CRV is powered by a choice of 2.0ltr or 2.2ltr turbodiesel mated to either six speed manual or automatic gearboxes. The new Honda CRV is wider, lower and slightly shorter than the previous version.

Honda CRV Engines:
The diesel Honda CRV, with its CTDi badge, is available in SE, ES and Ex trim levels with Ex providing most goodies. The petrol cars are available in SE, ES and Ex trim. The Ex models, with both petrol and diesel engines, are also available with an advanced safety pack which provides advanced cruise control with collision mitigation braking system (CMBS).

The fuel efficient common-rail turbo diesel models will give around 43mpg on combined cycle, while achieving 50mpg on long motorway runs. All this while producing an incredible 350NM torque at just 2000rpm, fantastic if your looking for a vehicle for towing.

The 2.0ltr petrol cars are mated to either an automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox. Expect to get around 34mpg on the combined cycle or upto 40mpg on long motorway drives.

Honda CRV Safety:
The Honda CRV has a very comprehensive range of safety features. All models get Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Trailer Stability Assist (TSA), Anti-lock brakes (ABS), Electronic brake force distribution. The Honda CRV has driver, passenger and side air bags as standard. An external temperature sensor will show you when it's getting dangerously cold outside. The Honda CRV has remote central locking, driver, passenger and side/curtain airbags.

Honda CRV Security:
All cars get an alarm and rolling code ECU engine immobilizer, deadlocks and locking wheel nuts, lockable glove box, and externally visible VIN Number.

Space:
In the Honda CRV you can take a lot of gear with you. The rear seats have a 60:40 split, fold flat, and can comformtably fit 3 people in the back. The tailgate is electrically operated and can open automatically using the key remote. It also has a sensor to detect if anything is in the way when closing so your vedgetables should be safe!

The Hond CRV boot capacity with the rear seats up is 556 ltrs up to the window line, drop the back seats and the storage space increases to 695 ltrs. The boot also features an additional 12v socket and under floor storage area.

Honda CRV Options:
If you buy a Honda CRV then you'll be pleased with the array options which come as standard on a Honda CRV. In Ex spec, the Honda CRV has leather seats available in a variety of colours. Heating and cooling is controlled by a dual-zone climate control system which provides seperate temperature environments for driver and passenger. The Ex models also get electrically operated heated seats for driver and passenger, which have two heat settings. Steering mounted controls include cruise control and remote control audio buttons.

A touchscreen DVD Sat Nav system comes as standard on the Ex models, it includes voice recognition and bluetooth phone connection. The integrated sat nav also handles the in-car-entertainment system, radio and CD functions, temperature and air-con and other various settings. The sat nav system is quite advanced and can take you anywhere in europe. The CD player in ex spec has traffic alerts and there's a socket for an MP3 player.

All cars get electric windows, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, front and rear arm rests.

Other options include: reverse parking sensors, roof racks, dog bars, sports suspension and an integrated Bluetooth system.

Honda CRV Accessories:
We love accessories and with the Honda CRV you won't be left wanting with a great range of stylish and practical accessories for your new or used Honda CRV. The 'Premium Pack' provides you with Body Coloured Door Protectors, Protective Boot Tray, Stainless steel doorstep garnishes, elegance floor carpets
There's a detachable towing bar which works with the vechicles Trailer Stability Assist feature, and a 'Dynamic Pack' which upgrades the CRV with additional spoilers and sporty 19 inch alloy wheels.

Honda CRV Running costs:
The diesel Honda CRV is insurance group 10, 2.0ltr petrol Honda CRV is group 11. Honda cars come with a 90'000 mile/3 year warranty and service intervals at 12'500 miles. Emissions are around 171g/km for the diesel units, 190 for the 2.0ltr petrol models.

Alternatives:
As an alternative, take a look at the Mitsubish Outlander or if maybe a Landrover Freelander.

Honda has produced a quality product and as usual with Honda's the Honda CRV has an excellent reliability record.

More Honda CRV Photos...

www.Used-Car-Deals.co.uk

Super Car Thrill

2010-03-09T04:52:00.000-08:00

The Honda Jazz Petrol and Diesel models

2010-03-09T04:47:00.000-08:00

The Honda Jazz was introduced in 2002 at the super-mini end of the market. Since then it has gone on to become a well rounded small car with growing list of features and enhancements. It is a highly accomplished car in a very competitive segment of the market. The used honda jazz represents a great buy and is well worth considering when looking for your next used car.

Honda Jazz Engines:
The Honda Jazz is powered by a choice of 1.2 or 1.4ltr I-VTEC petrol engines mated to either five speed manual or six-speed automated manual gearbox. The manual gearbox also features a Shift Indicator Lamp (SIL) which aids the driver to drive more efficiently. The shift indicator lamp turns on to advise the driver when to shift up or down a gear to maximise fuel economy.

What is an automated manual gearbox? The automated manual gearbox fitted to the 1.4ltr Honda Jazz enables you to select fully automatic mode, where the gear changes are made automatically, or manual mode. The automated manual gearbox in the Honda Jazz is called I-Shift and also features Hill Start Assist (HSA) which helps prevent the car from rollin backwards when pulling away. This little feature has great practical benefits for new and less experienced drivers.

Honda Jazz Safety:
The new Honda Jazz has a five star rating from Euro NCAP. The Honda Jazz has driver, passenger and side impact air bags as standard making it a very safe place to be. The front passenger airbag can be temporarily disabled while carrying small children in the front seats. The seatbelts have pre-tensioners and there are active headrests which automatically move forwards to support your head in the event of the car being hit from behind. All cars get Vehicle Stability Assist, Electronic brake force distribution and Anti-lock brakes (ABS)

Honda Jazz Equipment
The 1.2ltr cars are available in S and SE trim levels. Even the entry level models get remote keyless door entry, front electric windows and stereo with MP3 connection.

The 1.4ltr cars are available in ES and Ex trim levels. If you're looking for a fully-loaded car then look no further than the Ex spec with cruise control; rain sensing wipers; front foglights; privacy glass; panoramic glass roof; heated and retractable door mirrors; automatic climate control and stereo CD player with MP3 compatibilty and USB socket for your iPOD.

'T' suffix models are also available with DVD Sat Nav and integrated bluetooth handsfree car kit.

Honda Jazz Storage Space
Small cars have come a long way forwards recently in packaging design to maximise storage space and the Honda Jazz is no exception. The boot features a two-tier storage area with cargo nets and rear seats which fold flat. The front passenger seat can be folded out of the way also so that long items can be fitted into the wide openening boot.

Honda Jazz Security
All cars get an immobilizer and deadlocks on the doors as standard.

Honda Jazz Size
The Honda Jazz is just 3.9M long and just over 2M wide including the door mirros, with the mirros folded the width reduces to 1695mm ideal if your garage is a bit on the small side.

Honda Jazz Running costs:
Small cars are about low running costs and the Honda Jazz is no exception with CO2 emmissions ranging between 125 and 130g/km across the range. In the real world this means a car with a range of 62miles on one gallon of fuel based on leisurely motorway driving. Honda has produced a quality product and as usual with Honda's the Honda Jazz has an excellent reliability record. Insurance group starts at group 4E.

Honda Jazz Alternatives:
Looking at the used car adverts theres plenty of used Honda Jazz cars available from main dealers, independants and private sellers. The car has been around for a while now so used Honda Jazz prices can start quite low and makes for an affordable car for new drivers. As an alternative, take a look at the mighty new Ford Fiesta. It's a car with style and is selling like hot cakes at the moment. Also check out the new Volkswagen Polo or Hyundai i20.

A used Honda Jazz represents a great buy and with its great reliability levels, higher-mileage cars represent a bargain.

More Photos http://www.used-car-deals.co.uk/honda_jazz_used_new_review.php

http://www.used-car-deals.co.uk

Honda S2000 sports car

2010-03-09T04:21:00.000-08:00

The Honda S2000 is a two-door sports car manufactured by the Japanese automobile manufacturer, Honda, between 1999 and 2009. The S2000 was created to celebrate the manufacturers 50th anniversary. This article provides some information about the Honda S2000, its history, changes to specification and why you might want to buy one.

At the heart of all Honda automobiles are their engines and the engine designed for the Honda S2000 is a very special one indeed. Created using lightweight materials, the engine in the early Honda S2000 sport scars are capable of revving up to 9000rpm, producing around 240hp. The early cars used a 1997cc engine mounted front-mid for optimum weight distribution. The VTEC unit in the Honda S2000 means that below 6000rpm the car is quite docile while driving through town but once you get above 6k the car springs to life with an eagerness to head to the red line as quick as possible. In S2000 terms this means a 0-60 sprint in around 6 seconds! The engine is mated to a manual gearbox with no option for automatic.

The Honda S2000 sports cars are available with two designs. The AP1 chassis was introduced in 1999 and ran until 2004 when the AP2 design started manufacture.

The AP1 Honda S2000 had remote central locking, airbags, cassette radio entertainment system and an immobilizer. From 2002 the model benefited from a heated rear screen and 2004 models were available in GT spec with hard top. From 2004 the car has heated mirrors, LED tail lights and an upgraded alarm system.

The AP2 Honda S2000 has remote central locking, airbags, electronic brake force distribution and ABS as standard on the later models.

Options:

If you buy a S2000 then you’ll be pleased with the array options which come as standard on a Honda S2000. The S2000 has leather seats available in a variety of colours including some two-tone shades.

From 2004 the GT specification comes with a hardtop as well as the folding roof to help keep you warm in the winter months. The hardtop has a glass heated rear screen.

Of course, all manufacturers produce a list of optional extras for your car and the S2000 benefits from an optional spoiler for extra racy looks, front and rear protectors and extra speakers for the hifi.

Colours:

The Honda S2000 is available in Berlina Black, Moon rock metallic grey, Silverstone Metallic Silver, Lime Green Metallic; Royal Navy Blue Pearl; Neuburgring Blue Metallic; New Formula Red; Monza Red Pearl; Imola Orange Pearl and New Indy Yellow Pearl. Popular colours for the Honda S2000 are the Neuburgring Blue, Moon rock and Silverstone metallic silver colours. Inside the cockpit, the leather seats are available in Red, Black and Tan, or blue for the Neuburgring coloured cars. Two-tone red-black seats are also available.

Size:

The Honda S2000 is approximately 4100mm long by 1750mm wide.

Running costs:

If your looking for a low cost runabout then you probably should be looking elsewhere. That nippy engine earns the Honda S2000 an insurance group 20 quote! Take it steady on the motorway and you could get upto 35mpg though combined cycle will get more like 28mpg. Also road tax could quite easily be between £200-£400 at time of writing. Servicing costs aren’t too bad

Prices

The Honda S2000 has been around for quite a long time now and there are many higher mileage cars around the £5k area. A good well cared for model can be had for around £8-10K for an AP1 spec or £12k plus for an AP2. Prices are representative at the time of writing. Honda has an excellent reputation for reliability so buying an older car shouldn’t represent too much of a risk when compared with other options.

Alternatives:

Around at the same time as the Honda S2000 was the Mazda MX5 and Porsche Boxster 2-door open top sports cars. The little Mazda is a fun car to drive with an almost classical style and look dating back to cars of the 60’s. The Porsche boxster is a highly accomplished sports car at the lower end of the Porsche range.

http://www.used-car-deals.co.uk/

VOLVO XC90 2.4 D5 SE Geartronic Virtual Tour

2009-10-23T04:13:00.000-07:00

www.DovesVolvo.com

Five Great Reasons to Buy Your Car at Bury or Oldham Motors

2009-10-23T04:11:00.000-07:00

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For more information visit www.burymotors.co.uk or www.oldhammotors.co.uk

Brand New Fords at Cost Price at Dees Ford Croydon

2009-10-23T04:09:00.000-07:00

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Great Car deals from Dees Ford Croydon www.dees.co.uk

Biggest Ever Car Sale at Dees Wimbledon

2009-09-24T04:50:00.000-07:00

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www.Dees.co.uk

Ladies Event Invertations

2009-09-24T04:46:00.001-07:00

Something For The Ladies

2009-09-24T03:00:00.001-07:00

Preston Motor Parks' Fiat, Volvo and Lotus dealership on Aston on Ribble Road has teamed up with Breast Cancer Care and will be to donating to the charity for every car sold over the next year.

To celebrate the new partnership and raise awareness of breast cancer, ladies in Preston are invited to an exclusive Ladies Day on Saturday 3rd October between 11-4pm.

Guests will be welcomed with a champagne reception and complimentary rose. This will be followed by free makeovers in association with Virgin Vie, cooking demonstrations courtesy of the Pampered Chef, health checks with Total Fitness and a voucher worth a fantastic £145 to be used at national photography company Venture.

Plus, ladies will be encouraged to get involved in a whole host of dynamic activities including a salsa dancing class with the Fever Dance Company, a tyre changing competition and the opportunity to win some exciting prizes donated by businesses throughout Preston.

Breast Cancer Care Corporate Partnerships Executive, Michelle Smith, commented: ““We are delighted to be working with Preston Motor Park, and we are looking forward to an extremely successful relationship."Every 11 minutes, somebody will hear the news that they have breast cancer. We want to offer support to each and every one of them, and their friends and families, right from the moment of diagnosis, through to living with the disease."Preston Motor Park will not only generate vital funds, but they will ensure more people know where to turn should they need us.”

Shaz Anjam, Regional Director of the dealership said: “At Preston Motor Park we recognise how vital it is for people throughout the UK to support charities such as Breast Cancer Care. As Breast Cancer Care is a primarily female orientated charity, we have organised the ladies day to raise both awareness and funds for the charity at the same time as being pampered with friends and family.”

To find out more about the Ladies Day at Preston Motor Park call 0844 856 5603 or visit the dealership on Ashton on Ribble.

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Preston Motor Park, Doves and Grange Lotus are part of the Cambria Motor Group, one of the country's fastest growing car retailers. The multi franchises gives the group huge buying power and enables them to offer the perfect combination of online car prices and full dealer facilities.

Breast Cancer Care is here for anyone affected by breast cancer. We bring people together, provide information and support, and campaign for improved standards of care. We use our understanding of people's experience of breast cancer and our clinical expertise in everything we do. Visit www.breastcancercare.org.uk or call our free helpline on 0808 800 6000.

http://www.prestonmotorparks.com/

www.BlackburnMotorpark.com

The New Jaguar C-Type

2009-09-24T02:58:00.001-07:00

The Jaguar C-Type (also called the Jaguar XK120-C) was a racing sports car built by Jaguar and sold from 1951 to 1953. The "C" designation stood for 'competition'. Considering that Jaguar have recently stated that they wish to push the brand further up market, the New Jaguar C-Type will be aiming to cause a stir with the competition - Porsche Boxster, Mercedes SLK, BMW Z4, the Audi TT and the Nissan 370Z. Jaguar's owner Ratan Tata has made it clear that he wants to expand Jaguar's sports car offerings beyond the scope of the current XK, and the C-Type model will bring Jaguar back into the spotlights and place it where it belongs.

Auto Express says the Jaguar two-seater will borrow styling cues from Ian Callum's XF, with such highlights as a mesh grille, LED headlamps, thin tail lamps, and a power bulge in the hood, a steeply raked windshield, muscular haunches and short overhangs.

Whilst taking styling cues from the XF, the driving dynamics mirror those of the XK. The new addition to Jaguar's line-up is suspected to feature rear-wheel-drive, stunning design, a fabric roof and an impressive engine line-up.

It is thought that the New Jaguar C-Type will come in multiple engine configurations, including a 3.0-liter V6 developing 235 horsepower and a 5.0-liter version generating 380 horsepower, similar to those on the XF. Additionally, the manufacturer might also introduce a 3.0-liter diesel twin-turbo unit, with maximum output going as high as 272 hp. Even the base six-cylinder engine should provide 0-60-mph acceleration in around 7.0 seconds. The engines will be mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddles, which is a nice touch to the C-type's racing heritage.

The new C-Type will be made of a lightweight aluminum to ensure that the new C-Type with be light, agile and speedy, exactly the qualities you need to make a top performance sports car.

This Boxster rival, along with a replacement for the legendary E-Type and an Audi R8-style supercar, are on the drawing board, and would be expected to arrive in 2012 at the earliest, so Jaguar fans will have to wait a little longer to test drive the New Jaguar C-Type.

www.motorparks.co.uk

ALFA ROMEO 147 1.6 TS Lusso

2009-09-24T02:11:00.000-07:00

ALFA ROMEO 147 1.6 TS Lusso

at http://www.motorparks.co.uk/

Cost Price Cars

2009-09-17T08:51:00.001-07:00

Click the image to enlarge

Visit www.SwindonMotorPark.co.uk to see the Savings

FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCi Titanium

2009-09-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

FORD KUGA 2.0 TDCi Titanium

www.MotorParks.co.uk

Will Barnes and his New Fiat Punto

2009-09-11T04:09:00.000-07:00

Golfer Will Barnes and his New Fiat Punto

http://www.motorparks.co.uk/

Car Swap

2009-09-10T07:49:00.001-07:00

Click the image to enlarge to read

For more information about Car Swap with no extra cost visit Dees Wimbledon

Preston Motor Park Helps Grass Route Level Sport

2009-09-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

Preston Motor Park - a Fiat, Volvo and Lotus dealership - has sponsored local golfer and PGA Wales' winner, Will Barnes, with a brand new Fiat Bravo. The golfer, who spent 5 years at The Belfry, where he undertook his PGA, set up his own junior coaching academy and now works as Head of Junior Development at Garstang Golf Centre.

The sponsorship will allow Will to visit over 30 local junior schools in the area, where he currently teaches golf. A senior school program will start very soon.

General Manager at Preston Motor Park, Gary Greenaway, commented: “At Preston Motor Park we are always on the look out for ways to support our local community and budding young stars, especially in the current economical climate.” He continues, “This is a worthwhile partnership offering a local PGA Pro an award winning Fiat Bravo. Plus the partnership will offer additional benefits for our customers, like a ten per cent discount on their first golf lesson and offers on golf days and holidays.”

Will is representing Great Britain and Ireland in the bi-annual PGA Cup in the United States this month. He commented: “It's always good to create local associations with businesses which can help me to do my job. I am very grateful that such a reputable company like Preston Motor Park were able to provide me with this car to help visit local schools to teach our next generation of pros.”

Preston Motor Park is part of Cambria Automobiles Ltd which is one of the UK's fastest growing dealer groups. They represent 27 motor dealerships across England. At Preston Motor Park, along with the rest of the group, they are renowned for having a solid reputation for reliability and integrity, offering a wide range of quality new and used vehicles.

For further information regarding Motor Parks, the deals on offer at Preston Motor Park, or for your last chance to take advantage of the Government's Scrappage Scheme, before the money runs out, contact Preston Motor Park on 0844 372 3856 or log on to www.PrestonMotorPark.co.uk

For More Celebrity Car News visit http://www.motorparks.co.uk/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=016

Super Deals by Super Heros

2009-09-04T04:06:00.000-07:00

59 Plate Ford - price Crash!

Call now to book a test Drive - 0844 499 9156 and ask for Bob

Up To £8000 Off Your New 59 Reg Ford

2009-09-04T04:03:00.000-07:00

www.InvictaFord.com

FORD STREETKA 1.6i Winter Edition Roadster

2009-09-04T03:43:00.000-07:00

FORD STREETKA 1.6i Winter Edition Roadster

www.MotorParks.co.uk

Tom Fletcher from McFly Visits Grange Brentwood

2009-09-04T03:40:00.000-07:00

Tom Fletcher from McFly, together with his girlfriend Giovanna Falcone

Tom is a talented songwriter who sings and plays guitar for the highly successful McFly along with the other band members - Danny, Harry and Dougie.

Grange Brentwood were pleasantly surprised when Tom walked into the Showroom one day in August 2009. Mark Butcher was the member of the team who greeted Tom, Mark said That he "recognised him straight away... My 4 daughters are big fans. Tom actually came back to the showroom with Giovanna his girl friend to meet my girls and presented them with a signed CD each, he also bought Danny from the band to meet them they were delighted."

Tom originally was interested in buying an Aston Martin, but after visiting his parents one day, felt he couldn't justify the purchase when they had an ageing Vauxhall. He decided as a surprise to treat them to a 58 plate Jaguar X Type Jaguar 2.2 SE d saloon, as he knew his Dad had always wanted a Jaguar. Tom was specifically after a diesel for fuel economy.

Tom and Giovanna told Mark that Tom's Mum and Dad were very emotional and delighted when he presented them with the keys.

Tom is driving a Mini Cooper at the moment. He said he is not ready for an Aston Martin yet, but maybe he will visit us again at Grange Brentwood when he does treat himself.

http://www.motorparks.co.uk/jsp/index.jsp?lnk=016

The New Jaguar XJ

2009-09-04T03:38:00.000-07:00

At Jaguar it has been their mission to create and build beautiful fast cars. The XK, XF, X-TYPE and now the all new Jaguar XJ they say “brings the exhilaration of driving to life”. The new XJ was unveiled on 9 July 2009; however it won't actually hit the Jaguar forecourts for a few more months yet, although the dealerships are registering people's interest now to keep them updated with the launch.

A quick historical recap of the Jaguar XJ - The Jaguar XJ is a luxury saloon sold under the British Jaguar marque. The XJ was launched in 1968 and has served as the Jaguar flagship model for most of its production span which continues through to today. The original model was the last Jaguar saloon to have had the input of Sir William Lyons, the company's founder.

Carrying through the visual style of the recently released XF saloon and XFR sports car, this radical XJ is aimed squarely at a new generation of Jaguar buyers. An innovative new panoramic glass roof is an integral part of the all-new XJ's design concept, enabling the car to have a lower, more streamlined roofline, while dramatically enhancing the feeling of light and space inside.

Rear seat passengers enjoy plenty of leg room provided by the extended wheel base (LWB) and can relax in the sumptuous leather seats surrounded by a stylish combination of wood, polished metal and leather. Rear seats are electronically adjustable and four-zone climate control and multimedia controls ensure every occupant travels in comfort. The supercharged V8 adds sports suspension and R braking system.

Fuel economy and emissions are also outstanding, with the diesel-powered XJ returning combined economy figures of 40.1mpg and CO2 emissions of 184g/km. Fuel economy in the diesel is impressive thanks to the car's lightweight aluminium construction. Rivals may feel more advanced but the XJ's old-school charm remains central to its appeal.

With a 520-litre boot the New XJ can accommodate two large suitcases, great for short breaks in the country. A great excuse to take it for a spin on a few challenging roads with nice bends to test the remarkable handling and agility.

Three trim levels are available: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Portfolio, beyond which lie two top-of-the-range models: the Supercharged and Supersport versions. Don't think for one minute the 'basic' model will be lacking in niceties though, included in the standard package is leather, SatNav, cruise control, interactive voice control, rear parking aid, 400W sound system with hard disk drive and media hub, Bluetooth and a very acceptable set of 19” alloys.

Well, it's clear which ever trim level you choose, your New Jaguar XJ is going to be a very sleek and sporty car.

www.MotorParks.co.uk

Paul Titheradge - Jaguar Technician of the Year

2009-09-04T03:36:00.000-07:00

In August 2009 Paul Titheradge of Grange Jaguar Swindon was officially crowned Master Technician of the year by Jaguar Cars.

After a gruelling day at the Jaguar Academy where he was tested against the top Jaguar technicians in the country for his diagnostic, mechanical and customer facing skills, he emerged victorious.

Paul started with the company at the age of sixteen as an apprentice technician. He has progressed through to Master Technician, Workshop Controller and Assistant Service Manager. I am certain he has a great future ahead of him with the opportunities available to him within Cambria.

Amongst his rewards is a trip to Las Vegas.

I am sure you would like to join with me in congratulating him on this fantastic achievement.

www.SwindonJaguar.co.uk