Lotus Elise 1600 CC

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

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

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

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

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

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/

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