Car Talk - Everything About CARS!: October 2010

Sunday, October 31, 2010

Nissan FORUM concept: The future of people move?

From the December 2007 issue of motor trend as well as its name would suggest, the Nissan FORUM concept was developed with the goal of the people brings together. The FORUM is much like a futuristic minivan, a car Nissan is designed says to transport the modern family, conveniently and securely, while the needs displays both the driver and each passenger on board.The FORUM, demanding, even luxurious advanced. Pearl White and dark tinted Windows continue its advanced image and trackless sliding door design is profiled a look that is clean and continuous. The short side and aggressively raked windshield make the forum you are looking a bit more aerodynamic than it is likely, during a pretty broad strength and conveys elegance. In a FORUM of the most dramatic features the roof is Panel glass sunroof to give the inside an open, airy feeling is accentuated by the stylized bucket seating for all passengers. Leather, aluminium and wood trim appear more vehicle upscale intentions and of high quality.

The FORUM should, taking into account the needs of adults in the front and children in the Rückseite--easy to ride, for MOM and dad to be while keeping control of the activity in the back. Rear cameras, German "kid's cam," monitor show the driver behaviour of the inhabitants and it during a "time out" button on the steering wheel all audio muted and the driver's voice to the entire car broadcast. Console-mounted microwave is large enough to a bag of popcorn nuke and is accessible for the first and second rows and single dial Bose Media system allows for audio, video, navigation and hands-free phone use with hard drive storage of digital media files.

In the rear of the vehicle, the entire second series seating is able to rotate passengers face full 180 degrees on the third line, and individual monitors are built for movies or video games. Each seat in the FORUM has individual audio programming, so that each passenger to another type of music to hear. A Bose FreeSpace audio system integrated speakers and a wireless media player into the vehicle's exterior audio entertainment outside of the vehicle. Shag carpet covers the floor for an elegant look.The FORUM showcases of the around view monitor (AVM), a function, the it debut in the Infiniti EX35. The AVM is a situations for visibility bird's-eye view of the FORUM during the car park and improved security.

We an in-person preview of the Nissan FORUM at the SEMA show this year in Las Vegas caught and were impressed with the concept of high build quality and solid, upscale design. Is this the future of the people move? We will learn, more when we see the Forum again on its international car debut in Detroit January of this year show. Stay tuned to motor trend online for more information.

Subtle changes: 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

December 2007 issue of motor trend as his less powerful SLK siblings, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG is newly refined with a number of exterior Visual more clearly from the driver's seat as from one standpoint.With 360 BHP--up five of last year's model and the same 376-kg-ft of torque, SLK55 AMG race from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds per after Mercedes subtle changes.

The roadster's V-8 is carried out by a seven course AMG Speedshift-gearbox with steering wheel paddle, the Gearchanges makes about 10 percent faster than before in sports and manual mode SLK's are subtle, external changes including a new, larger air intakes redesigned front apron, and newly positioned fog lights with chrome surrounds. The larger rear-view mirrors have LED indicators in an arrow design that more tastefully done as the Oestantatious indicators to the new c-class. The rear end was revised easy with new exhaust tips the most significant update. Fortunately, the 18-inch AMG-multi-spoke wheels appear the same and are packaged with 225 / 40 and 245 / 35 front and rear tires. T

he direct steering system that also on non - AMG SLKs characterised, helps the SLK55 feeling more in everyday driving, controllable according to the manufacturer. The speed-sensitive power steering boost and the newly designed steering rack help only 2.16 times from lock to lock.Inside to contact the SLK SLK55 AMG sports a new three spoke steering wheel with perforated leather in the grip area. Car of graphics Panel a Upshift recommendation that display those RaceTimer, the engine oil temperature or the battery voltage to command.For want to even more AMG with their SLK, is also offered an AMG performance package.

The package features carbon fiber trim, a specially tuned performance suspension, brakes and a thicker steering updated wheel.The 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG goes on sale in Europe for over $100,000 USD in March 2008. The car should U.S. Bank shortly afterwards taken

2009 Mercedes Benz SLK: more power, more style

From December 2007 issue of motor trend

of second generation Mercedes-Benz SLK since always a good-looking and luxury sports car fast. Regeneration of the SLK for model year 2009 with revisions of the body, Interior and engine Mercedes attempts is its sporty convertible that much better.The redesigned most noticeable change between old and new SLK's front clip. Easily changed air intakes and a bold v-shaped bulge on the front hood developed more resemble the muzzle of the Mercedes Formula 1 car. On the back, a diffuser like view SLK seem makes a bit more to introduce the following behind.

Inside to keep the new three spoke sport leather steering wheel multifunction controls of the driver includes focus on the road while the updated instrument with newly designed mounts helps erfrischen-Up cabin. A media interface in the glovebox for iPod connectivity, standard Bluetooth compatibility and Mercedes' Linguatronic voice control system has been added, including NTG 2.5 audio and telematic systems, new technology. An optional Harman/Kardon Logic7 audio system is also offered.

No good refresh is complete without some engine optimizations. During the American spec SLK's base level engine a 3, 5-liter V-6 remains the Rev limit was raised to 7200 RPM, compression ratio has been raised and changes have been made to the intake manifold and camshafts. The result is an increase of 32 PS and seven lb-ft of torque, amounts to a even 300 horses and bring 265 lb-ft. No performance numbers have been offered by Mercedes, but we encourage those changes are good for a few tenths a seconds off the previous 5.5 second 0 to 60 mph Sprint and perhaps even in the stroke 0 to 100 mph. A six speed manual transmission 7 G-TRONIC are now standard with an automatic ' field is optionally available. The 5.5-Liter-V-8 which in the SLK 55 AMG found remains unchanged, available with 355 PS and 376 lb-ft.

While more power is a good thing, Mercedes has also added a new direct-steer system for precise control. Developed power steering from the previous speed-sensitive system, changes that new system steering relationships mechanical, and electrical components of the mixture. Mercedes allows for smaller movements of the steering wheel while negotiating twisty back roads.Mercedes offers 2009 SLK models in the United States will begin in April 2008 claims that the number of revolutions has reduced lock to lock by 25 percent.

2009 Mercedes Benz SLK Rear View 2009 Mercedes Benz SLK Front Profile

Rotary-powered rocket: Mazda Furai concept to meet Detroit Show 2008 with RX-8 revised 2009

From the December 2007 Edition TrendOver last year, Mazda motor has a number of the sheet expressions was parading of its Nagare evolving or "flow" design language around the car show circuit. So it is not surprising that the Japanese automaker's latest Nagare-inspired Schaffung--based car Furai concept-make 2008 arc his world at the Detroit show. Mazda Furai Concept Teaser

But Furai 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be joined at the revised is much more than just a design exercise. There is a strong statement of Mazda its "Zoom-Zoom relentless" (sorry, we have not tried to use it) message really means something. According to the automakers are on a given weekend in the United States, further ribs Mazda powered vehicles tracks than any other brand. That's a lot of sports cars with soul.Underpinned by a courage C65 chassis, which the company in the American Le Mans Series series two is powered by a 450 HP Furai seasons fought, three-rotor Rotary, a fans of the Rotary are bound to appreciate and endlessly speculate. Sounds like the perfect engine for RX-7, doesn't it? Teaser shots of the car, you can definitely make the top of the front wheel housing and excessive Cutline along the Bodyside Nagare style gills. It definitely has the appearance of an amp type ALMS car with a closed cockpit design. What appears to be a cooling vent Setup at the top of the car does not specify layout a mid-engine. The fuel for the Furai rotary's is 100% pure ethanol produced in partnership with oil has huge BP.According, Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda North American Director of the design: "Furai deliberately blurring boundaries, the traditional street cars from track cars have made a difference." In the past there was a gap between single-purpose cars and street-legal opportunity-General super sports cars-called, to emulate the real drivers on the road. "Furai bridges the gap as no car at all has done before." Sounds great to us, Franz. Everything can be done to a supercar to make we are even more great behind 110 percent. Mazda Nagare Concepts Teaser

For the 2009 RX-8, Mazda was much less forthcoming, but says the car will be visually refreshed, function, improved handling, acceleration, and overall quality and come up with new features. The RX-8 is powered still automaker's Renesis rotary engine by which, although it is unclear at this point if Mazda's next-generation, direct fuel injected version of the Rotary it on October's Tokyo Auto show will be presented on board for 2009.Joining Mazda Rotary-powered parade in Detroit the Taiki Tokyo seen for the first time. The fourth of the Nagare concept clan (Ryuga, hakaze concept and Nagare were the others, all four are shown) Taiki is sporting the automaker's next gen engine under its flowing lines of the robe. Mazda trio for this year's Motown Show is a great statement committing the brain trust in Hiroshima Rotary for the long haul.Stay MotorTrend.com for all the latest leading up to and during the 2008 Detroit show press days, Jan. 13-15, 2008.Get a free and easy new car price quote in minutes with connected is.

2007 Motor4Toys - the fourth annual charity-exotic, European and classic car show

...And the toy kept on coming! from the December 2007 Edition engine TrendThe holidays sneak up on us every year. Before we know it, Turkey has been served, and the craziest sales of the year are department stores with. Yup, the holidays are here and Christmas is just around the corner, and that means ' Tis of the season for those who are not as lucky as you.

I drove over 100 miles with three other mini owners at the 2 charity to participate in one of the largest Southern California automotive-based toy drives. This is the third year that I this toy drive to help, the families of all Los Angeles have participated. This toy drive is lost hills Sheriff's Department Booster Club toy collection, Carlsbad boys and girls Club plus chips for kids that benefit program and individual orphanages Los Angeles Fire Department program, the LAPD. Over 10,000 toys were that day alone, compiled a huge dent in Motor4Toys goal made of 15,000 by the end of the year. Organisers of the event hosted a raffle and auction reinforced more than 20,000 US US dollar on donations will be spent on more toys.

Before I continue this year the case, let me a bit to give you more about a little side project say, of which I most proud rewind. For last year's toy drive I pulled together help from colleagues, family members, family and friends with a goal "fill my mini." About 70 - percent was on my Mini Cooper filled with toys for me to take drive Motor4Toys the year 2006. I wanted to do it again this year, and for the last weeks before the big day I collected about 70 toys, filled the mini from ceiling to floor. I was not alone in my quest; Part of the project took two other mini owners "fill my mini". Together we donated over 150 toys.

The Motor4Toys objective could be made online car enthusiasts based communities possible only thanks to the support of many. Over 1000 was owner-clubs, Volkswagen ranging from Lamborghini and Ferrari lovers, cruising lowrider and one of a kind drift cars-showed their support, fill the countrywide financial parking and finally in the neighbouring lots.There crowded much to see at the event. Santa went the rows of flashy cars and took time to make with kids. Pink's famous hot dogs, were to keep page of our full bellies. The largest was the Ferrari show, but it was the hidden classic among these exotic where, classy Volvo, strong Ford rat rod and the 1969 Lola T70, chopped, that the masses moved the polished Cobras.

This is one of the events where I every year take wait cant to part. There is nothing better than free car show with a target-to bring a smile of a child's face for the holidays.

2007 Motor4toys

2011 Kia Sportage EX FWD-short take road test

October 21, 2009 at 6: 15 pm by David Gluckman

A sporty chassis ensures badges and sporty looks, but we look forward to the upcoming Turbo model.

What is it?

Is striking small crossover platform with the Hyundai Tucson, even for 2010 redone teilt.Die new for 2011 KIA's more stylish of the two, pairing is a ready for primetime exterior and a handsome cabin with an equally competitive Chassis.Der look be included even though we prefer the monochromatic LX model of the exterior of lightened - up's EX - no vehicle a chrome needs C-pillar.

Keep reading: 2011 Kia Sportage EX FWD-short take road test

Saturday, October 30, 2010

GM releases first image of production Chevy Volt, wind up helping cranks, development aid

From December 2007, the question is motor TrendThe high electrical area of 40 miles, GM Chevrolet Volt set has its engineers to achieve was not easy. A way to get closer to it is through extensive wind tunnel tests to minimize drag. Chevrolet Volt Wind Tunnel Drawing

After GM global vehicle line executive and global vehicle Chief Engineer for the E-Flex system Frank Weber's Volt's electric sensitive aerodynamic improvements instead mass reduction, which is generally more important in the traditional cars. Drag accounts for roughly 20 percent of energy consumption by an average vehicle.According to GM global design honcho Ed Welburn, GM has already managed to cutting the production of Volt's drag coefficient by 30 percent over the the concept with more tests and revisions planned to further reduce it. The Volt is still in an early stage of development, so that all wind tunnel tests on a model scale 1 / 3 is done, a detailed floor contains and engine compartment and analysis with computer models. A comprehensive prototype is tested, towards the end of the development cycle of physical and mathematical scale model results.The Michigan Volt validate within GM Advanced Design Center in Warren, the first vehicle that design studio located on the new Flex systems are developed. It is led concept exterior celebrated Bob Boniface, volts, that will monitor a team of 45 designers, engineers, sculptor, researchers and administrative staff. Beyond the Volt Studio are responsible for the development of other future vehicles based on the E-Flex platform, the the Volt.Motor trend support rating: Stars

2011 Dodge journey gets face lift, Pentastar V6, revised Interior

Dodge's newest product makeover is the journey crossover model received several upgrades for the year 2011. Outside, the trip benefits front grille (like the one of Durango) fog light housing, LED taillights and 19 new wheel designs of a new cross hair style, braver.

More importantly, the journey is Chrysler of's new 3.6-Liter-Pentastar-V6-Motor make 283 HP and 260 lb-ft torque.The new optional engine friends around a six-speed automatic transmission and a 3, 5-liter V-6, the 235 produced replaces hp and journey's base 2.4-Liter-vier-Zylinder-Motor is still standard 232 lb ft.Die, with either a four - or six-speed automatic transmission depending on the version.

Dodge promises a better overall experience driving you revised suspension geometry and tweaked tuning steering. Extra sound deadening and insulation to reduce noise in the cabin.

Speaking of which, the trip's interior was, also überarbeitet.Die start improvements with a new three spoke steering wheel and an instrument cluster with red backlight and a central color display.The new dashboard has a curvier, more cohesive look, and his base has been redesigned to give more freedom driver and front passenger knee.From the admittedly limited look allow these images which appears journey's interior more modern and should be a nice improvement over the 2010 model.

The center stack houses a new iteration of the Chrysler Uconnect touch Infotainment System.Je measures 4.3 or 8.4 cm after trim of the touch screen and is with or without navigation assisttroubleshooting.the seats are as comfortable as referred to above, and there is a large armrest for the driver. Finally there are six new interior color schemes you can choose.

The 2011 dealers Dodge journey achieved later this year.

6.2-Liter-V-8 engine option get 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe

From the December 2007 issue is motor trend Chevrolet's Tahoe his GMC and Cadillac GMT900 platform mates in GM offers 6.2-Liter-V-8 as an engine option for model year 2008 join. It is now the most powerful engine for the Tahoe.

Engine offered for the 2008 Chevrolet Tahoe LTZ trim package is available only for two-wheel drive models and is rated at 380 PS and 417 lb-ft torque. The engine is also available on Denali trim, while a little uprated version of the engine is standard equipment on the Cadillac Escalade.The block, GM six-speed Hydra-Matic 6 L 80 automatic transmission, which has a Tapshift aisle is mated select GMC Yukon system is located on the column shifter. Setup in the world it is not the most graceful, but at least you can say you have. The vehicle will have a towing capacity of 7,900 pounds, according to the automaker.The Tahoe LTZ is Chevrolet Tahoe lineup top trim level and the vehicle comes standard feature list and a set of available upscale options.

First look: 2009 Subaru Forester

From the December 2007 issue of motor trend

Subaru's third generation is the latest vehicle in the Japanese automaker's 2009 Forester U.S. to undergo a comprehensive makeover lineup. It comes in the course of the recent and much-publicized durchgegangen introduction the Impreza and signature WRX and WRX STI variants.The Forester, its world premiere in the make car will show on the road a few weeks at the 2008 Detroit to U.S. Subaru dealers in the spring car in a vehicle will now be billed is gone from a tallish others - of course-a crossover utility.As standard with a fully revised model 2009 Forester has increased (wheelbase grows 3.6 inch to 103,0) and (side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, stability and traction control are secure standard on all models now). But despite his efforts, XXL, refine and otherwise smooth from the new Forester, Subaru has tried keep sporty vehicle, small car spirit alive keep for longer than the outgoing Car.Subaru's now total length trusts, normally aspirated and Turbo intercooler 2.5 litre Boxer engines power the Forester that provide the same horsepower figures as the Impreza, 177 for the base engine and 224 for the Turbo version in, in only three inches should come. The vehicle has independent suspension system with a double-wishbone rear Setup, has a four wheel up to 8.9 inches of ground clearance and, of course, with Subaru symmetrical all-wheel-drive standard equipped Forester. Manual transmission models are equipped with a start assist feature to help, the vehicle in place spec keep look at the first official photos in a rising situation.A U.S. (pictures of the Japanese market Forster have been circulating around the Web recently) shows a vehicle that has grown up on several fronts and definitely looks the part of the crossover. It takes Tribeca Ute on cues similar Subie how, like for example the vehicle grille. A plated bottom front clip area houses prominent front fog lamps, wheel arches are pronounced, and dual tailpipes now distribute foresters exhaust.As with the Impreza, Subaru urges its interior design, better quality touting a cabin that it says and is a quiet and comfortable. Forester is available now for the first time with a navigation system, with multiple audio system options. A number of trim levels are available including the sportier XT and the automakers to build its relationship with clothing maker l.l. Bean.We will have more details on the Forester, reveal his world in Detroit. Stay tuned on MotorTrend.com for all the latest leading up to and during the Detroit show press days, Jan. 13-15

The continental: More VW tidbits, BMW's new look and improved traffic flow with a smart

Error in deserializing body of reply message for operation 'Translate'. The maximum string content length quota (8192) has been exceeded while reading XML data. This quota may be increased by changing the MaxStringContentLength property on the XmlDictionaryReaderQuotas object used when creating the XML reader. Line 1, position 8861. Error in deserializing body of reply message for operation 'Translate'. The maximum string content length quota (8192) has been exceeded while reading XML data. This quota may be increased by changing the MaxStringContentLength property on the XmlDictionaryReaderQuotas object used when creating the XML reader. Line 1, position 9320.

Each week, our German correspondent slices and dices the latest rumblings, news, and quick-hit driving impressions from the other side of the pond. His byline may say Jens Meiners, but we simply call him . . . the Continental.

At the Volkswagen Passat launch this Monday, I spoke with VW engineering chief Ulrich Hackenberg. Conversation quickly turned from the Passat to the sub-Polo model called Up, VW’s future city vehicle. Originally, the Up was supposed to be rear-engined, but the company subsequently changed its mind in the interest of component compatibility with the Polo. The Up will launch with a new family of three-cylinder engines, but VW is working on a two-cylinder unit as well. It’s unlikely the Up will be sold in the U.S.—at least not any time soon.

Hackenberg is understandably proud of the super-efficient Passat BlueMotion diesel, a spacious sedan that gets Prius mileage. And he is bullish about the internal-combustion engine: “Over the next ten years, we will get [an additional] 10 to 15 percent out of the IC engine—without hybridization.” VW, of course, is working on excellent hybrids as well, but those cars don’t get the folks in Wolfsburg excited. While the company has gotten the memo on America’s love affair with hybrid technology, engineers continue to be mystified. “We did the Touareg hybrid to show people: there, we got it. But if you want mileage, why pass up the diesel?” says one of them. No wonder the latest Passat—which won’t be sold in the U.S.—will do without a hybrid version. We won’t miss it in Europe.

Lexus, on the other hand, is hell-bent on becoming a hybrid-only brand on the Continent. Company officials say that every new model launched will be a hybrid. To be sure, Lexus sales are so low here that the brand can probably do without the three or so LS460 customers that refuse to upgrade to an LS600h. In Germany, Toyota and Lexus are especially “green.” For example, the 1.8-liter Yaris, which is sold elsewhere in Europe, is not offered to German customers so Toyota can brag about its superior carbon-dioxide fleet average. Whatever Lexus does, I am glad the new strategy was put in place after the LFA’s launch and not before.

Get ready for a modified BMW face. The 6-series concept shown in Paris is equipped with new, flat-bottom corona rings around the headlights. “This specific look, which you will also have noticed on the Vision EfficientDynamics concept of 2009, could define several new models,” Anders Warming, chief exterior designer, tells me. But the SUV models will keep the full circles. Interestingly, the 6-series concept also has LED fog lights—even though BMW’s M division has lectured for a while that fog lights were obsolete and the space they occupied better utilized by additional cooling apertures. “We actually do need fog lights: to create identity, and to improve safety,” Warming tells me now. I agree; keep them on the regular cars. Also, please, bring them back to the M models, where LED technology should make them fit easily.

VW officials are not at all eager to speak about the planned acquisition of Alfa Romeo. Behind closed doors, they are working with fervency on different scenarios to integrate Alfa Romeo into the Group’s growing roster of brands. Few of these scenarios still include VW’s Spanish SEAT subsidiary. We also hear that VW is none too eager to take over any of the existing Fiat production sites along with the Alfa Romeo brand. Alfas could well be produced in Spain, plus—why not?—in an entirely new Italian plant dedicated to the new Alfa Romeo.

You liked the Porsche 911 GT2 RS? It’s too late to get yours. At the launch in Moscow less than two months ago, Porsche announced it would make 500 units of the 620-hp monster. Now they’re all sold out, including the 133 copies scheduled to arrive in the States in February.

Autobahn Tested: Smart MHD

Driving a Smart halfway across Germany? Everybody thought I was kidding, but it’s doable. I drove the MHD (Micro Hybrid Drive) with a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine from Cologne to Bavaria and survived, only mildly traumatized. The car uses a stop-start system that’s eager to shut down the engine even before you come to a standstill. Compared to the original Smart (which was never sold in the U.S.), this one looks more substantial and has a more comfortable chassis—because it’s longer. But the added length makes parking sideways almost impossible. A pity, because this used to be pretty much all the fun you could have with a Smart.

And driving it isn’t. Being limited to just 70 hp doesn’t seem so bad when only trying to move about 1650 pounds, but the three-banger sounds stressed, and the semi-automatic five-speed manual transmission is still jerky. Steering is imprecise and indirect, and handling suffers thanks to that unhappy combination of rear engine, short wheelbase, and high center of gravity. The brake pedal is spongy, and—by the way—the rear drums are not pretty enough to justify spending an extra euro on alloys. On a sunny weekend in the city, the Smart still brings smiles to everyone’s faces, but on a busy day on the autobahn, this cutesy car is clearly not welcome. I look at it from the bright side: A Smart topped out at 90 mph does miracles to enhance traffic flow because nobody wants to get passed by it.

10 Orphaned cars to drive before you die - article

October 22, 2010 at 5: 38 pm by Justin Berkowitz

These cars manufacturers can access the beyond gone but left some great rides.

A few months ago we have 10 cars to drive before you die presented.This was the survey course: an overview of the 10 cars that should drive the richest, most get, and the most complete automotive Erfahrung.Aber there are many other awesome rides that must be experienced before to make a dirt NAP and so now we turn our focus to orphaned cars in the post-war period (1945 to present) gemacht.Diese 10 fantastic cars suffered the humiliation in the world to leave when their manufacturers to the large corporate graveyard in the sky.

Keep reading: 10 orphan cars to drive before you die - feature

Friday, October 29, 2010

Toyota A-BAT concept: Return to his roots compact truck

From the December 2007 issue of motor trend Toyota returns to his roots compact truck with its latest A-BAT concept vehicle (Advanced breakthrough Aero truck) its world debut at the North American International Auto Show in January. "A hybrid drive, which reports used A BAT that offer spacious modern versatility and style for a new kind of buyer."

Driving from the suburbs of the city, is a way of life for many people, ", says Kevin Hunter, President, Calty design research, Inc."Toyota truck heritage to another level taking, by envisioning a vehicle capable of maneuvering the suburbs and the dirt roads. This compact truck is so convenient for long commutes for road trips. There is ample space for outdoor play equipment and supplies home improvement. "Plus, customers benefit low emissions and fuel consumption of the hybrid drive." The A-BAT concept was developed by the TMS advanced product strategy group and the Calty, Toyota North America-based research and design center is located in Newport Beach, California. Together, identifies a purchasing group, its unique combination of lifestyle activities and vehicle needs of a vehicle requires that now is not available on the market; in a Word, you want a carlike anti-pickup. The team created a new genre of compact vehicle with good fuel economy, advanced functionality, agility, unique styling in its segment and a permanent package suitable for an active lifestyle. Advanced styling is key in matching A BAT for today's Market.The A BAT on a unibody platform for carlike handling, rides when the city streets and crowded parking lots and smooth ride to navigate quality commuter highway travel. Its light package coupled with Toyota Hybrid synergy drive technology provides in addition excellent fuel economy. The note translucent solar panels in the top surface of the instrument panel capture sunlight and convert it into energy, presents green character of the vehicle. Less than the Toyota Tacoma, train skills A BAT integrates features with a car platform for a modern and efficient package. The A-BAT's unique aerodynamic outside was Calty project Chief Designer Ian Cartabiano and creative designer Matt Sperling manufactured. Leading your design philosophy was the concept of "vibrant clarity." "We studied the Trapeze silhouette from the side profile of the Toyota Prius and applied to create a completely new truck image," says Sperling. "He improved the trapezoidal profile through the cabin forward and quickly angle - and C-pillars, shortened overhangs, and a sleek front window and adding 19-inch wheels."The fats grille presented topic in a new way Toyota's reverse harness and T face, "explains Cartabiano." "The bed is defined by the C-pillar and so that it can stand out from the rest of the profile is clearly separated from the cabin." "The image of a NATO Unimog inspires the occupant as far forward as possible to maximize the rear beds to keep", says Sperling.

A BAT has a four foot bed, but has more functional flexibility than other pickup trucks in the segment. A translucent roof panel slides open to allow high load in the cabin. If the passthrough sink into the cabin is folded bed extended an additional two feet. An open tailgate provides an additional two feet bed length. A BAT offers customers the versatility of the towing of equipment one day, then a family on for a trip to Lake next.The bed has features ideal for work and play. This includes lighting for the lighting of the load in the bed, a first aid kit and flashlight in the rear, sliding tie downs the tailgate and integrated an electrical outlet. Items such as sports and leisure equipment can be stored in the lockable drawers in the walls bed. The concept has additional memory that is accessible through sliding doors in a convenient location in and out of the truck bed. For even more storage, A BAT with a large sliding doors capacity drawer under the bed without opening the tailgate.Get comes a free and easy new car price quote in minutes available.

Land Rover LRX concept: Small sustainability is great

From December 2007 motor TrendYou Land Rover's search question big thing next. The LRX concept is his debut at the Detroit show small, sporty and designed so luxurious as each Landie be. In three years or so it could go on sale for more money than the 10 inch longer LR2/discovery. Land Rover's Mini Cooper or Audi TT design director Gerry McGovern says, showing off his first concept since leaving Lincoln. Land Rover LRX Concept Front Three Quarter View

Land Rover LRX Concept Front Three Quarter View

With a sports car quickly windshield, low, sloping roofline and wheels, to the four corners pushed, it looks longer than of a single-car Studio result in a vacuum. Note how the Shoulderline is increasing faster than the belt. The C-pillars have clear openings in a rather squat leads rear window. These instructions combine with traditional Land Rover exterior design elements; hexagonal grille openings on the top of the power bulge hood and the vent shape to the front fenders, dark accents and 20-inch wheel lip-wheels repeatedly. The cover opens clamshell style and the power liftgate is two-piece, top and bottom hinged .we countless little 2-door coupe SUV have seen recent concepts, get pre-production versions with four doors. This is not the idea here: the LRX is a smaller, more athletic alternative to the range Rover Sport. Land Rover LRX Concept Rear Three Quarter View

Land Rover LRX Concept Rear Three Quarter View

1. Full-time all-wheel drive with hill descent control.
2. Uncovered aluminium (no wood trim) as part of the seat structure and hyphen.
3. 2 + 2 Seats are folded into three forward at the center tunnel console attached.
40 Percent are lighter than glass 4. polycarbonate Windows, large sunroof.
5. Leather seats and trim are naturally gegerbtes chromium-free.
6. Headliner and vanilla "Suede" door inserts made from recycled glass bottles.
7. Concept based on platform LR2; it is 171, 3 inches long, 78, 7-inch wide a wheelbase of 104,3 and just 61 inches tall. Land Rover LRX Concept Front Three Quarter View

Land Rover LRX Concept Front Overhead View

Receive a free new car price quote within minutes.

Technologue: Head games - no rest for the whiplash protected PEAR

From the January 2008 edition of motor TrendI took a look at the new Dodge journey's front seats and groaned. "Let me guess:, the head restraint complies with the new 2009 standards, right?" I asked product team leader of Larry Lyons. He assured "Yes, but it's not the final design," me, which means, there are still hope production version will be less forward stoßend and Volvo hard. But brace you are for some complaints with your next headrest (there is nothing about this new seats relaxing). Technologue Head Restraints

NHTSA expects that costs are 272,000 annual whiplash society, $3 billion (insurance numbers on $8 billion encounter). Whiplash occurs rear-end collisions in low speed when body holding back seat back but still backward move the head, rotate and burden on the neck (at higher speeds in General that fails all seat back and the head and upper body move backward together). That comfy, comfortable headrests are good to prevent terrible whiplash, suffered in pre-1969 cars without head restraints, but let behind your head still to much head rotation for all if you are not properly fix adjusted.The? A new test standard assignment either based on a static test mainly geometrical requirements or a dynamic sled test with performance criteria. The latter is optimized for those ready for active head restraints to pay that, while to move the static forward for places like prototype, is the journey in an accident on accident forces not responding. Now have the cheaper are much larger than, topping-out ceremony 31.5 cm above the hip point if you not height adjustable and a minimum 29.5 cm for adjustable ones (two to four inches higher than before). What is worse is the "minimum back set" or removal of the head on the restraint. Previously unspecified new restrictions must within 2.2 inches or less loom. You need a 15 pound ball move at 15 mph within three milliseconds at 80 g or less stop. It is your convenient headrest.Active restrictions can be moved further away from the head and/or can be a little cushier, as long as a heavier core in position during 8.8 g moved effects during rotation limit 12 degrees relative to the body without inflicting a head injury criteria set over 500 is to head. Three different Active or semi-active designs have been proposed so far. First WHIPS and Saab SAHRs were on the market, Volvo, the occupants use the torso or pelvis backwards in the seat to the lever the headrest and route around the head to meet movement. It is an elegantly simple concept, but challenges the new test passed. BMW offers us a pyrotechnically fired system that offers the head rest along with the top which tilts the seat back in the 7 series. Mercedes Benz offers an electronically triggered spring-loaded device on C, M, and R-class vehicles that pops the headrests forward if necessary. This system cannot be changed without tools. BMW and Mercedes systems were developed by Grammer. Rear head restraints are not mandatory, but something that looks must match the new headrest standards as a headrest, by the year 2010. Also, if you visibility or store can be lowered wrinkles must forward so that adults in the seat can sit not, without the headrests in position. Could discourage fitment of rear head restraints, boost the Fund whiplash incident? who with the seat back drive not ski carriers at a Gangsta lean position will likely find annoying new fixed head restraints, so expect the most seats of to more expensive active feature designs in a few years further escalation of the price of even the cheapest cars. NHTSA predicts the new legislation prevents that around 17,000 injuries per year-six percent of all HWS cases. Is this good value for money/complaints? I am not so sure.Motor Trend rating: Stars

2012 Nissan GT-R official photos and info

October 20, 2010 at 6: 20 am by Steve Siler

More power and a handful of improvements are on the way for Godzilla.

An animated version of Nissan's mighty GT-R is show more than a month away from its official debut at the L.A. car but Nissan went ahead and gave us some pictures of the U.S.-spec car we have all the special features on the American version geschickt.Leider, yet, but we have lots of info about the car from press releases distributed read. revised GT-R coming through the u.k. - Japan spec versions elsewhere, will go first as 2011 models during our beginning 2011 2012 in the sale.

Keep reading: 2012 Nissan GT-R official photos and info

Mazda Announces lightweight chassis and body models, SKYACTIV is the new SKY

October 20, 2010 at 3: 32 pm by Jake Holmes

Mazda's next generation of fuel-efficient powertrain technologies has renamed SKY to SKYACTIV was.In other words, the previously announced engines and transmissions as SKYACTIV G known werden.Lesen be SKYACTIV D and SKYACTIV drive you for more information about those our full rundown from a recent Mazda technology preview and mentally add ACTIV to, where you see the word SKY.

Mazda has now announced that the first vehicle SKYACTIV G engine are a Japanese market Mazda Demio (what we know as Mazda 2 in the United States) set to on sale in the first half of next year. Japan testing cycles are the equivalent of 70 mpg, a figure that we decreases in EPA to test suspect the Demio.

The technology push includes a new light transmission for front engine, front-wheel drive vehicles or SKYACTIV MT designed Mazda says the unit is smaller and lighter than outgoing units with reduced internal friction - all of which help improve fuel economy.And said that keep the sports car like shift feel that we have come to expect from Mazda.

SKYACTIV body (pictured above) is a body shell design that is claimed by eight percent lighter and stiffer than current theme 30 percent.It is used more high-strength steel, reduce weight and vorgebracht.Ebenso improve Crashworthiness to SKYACTIV chassis (right) 14 percent front and Multilink rear suspension lighter than existing Setup to sein.Federbeine used.

Focusing on the reduction of the mass is to improve the fuel economy car, and we're glad to hear that Mazda plan not driving experience looking to reduced consumption to opfern.Alle these technologies slated, appear in new Mazda products in 2011.

Thursday, October 28, 2010

2011 BMW 535i - long-term test intro

26 October 2010 at 6: 44 pm by K.c Colwell

We hate the Steering, but like pretty much everything else about this long Termer.

Date:September 2010
Months in fleet: 4 months
Current mileage: 18,000 miles
Average fuel consumption: 24 mpg
Average range: 444 miles
Service: $0
Normal wear: $9
Repair: $0

If the order choose long-term test vehicles, we often it has things that came well in previous reviews and we download usually by using options - case in point: our $100, 000-plus long-term BMW 750Li xDrive .the idea is of course, to see if our blindness can stand the test of time with a new model and test the latest and greatest gadgets and technologies.

Keep reading: 2011 BMW 535i - long-term test intro

Name the exhaust note, episode 62: 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia

October 21, 2009 at 4: 05 pm by Car and Driver

Name That Exhaust, Episode 62

On Tuesday we posted an audio recording of the engine sound a secret car ' s. To hear it again, click game above. This week's quiz can easily, but there is no less satisfying to hear.It was one of the long-awaited sound 2011 Ferrari 458 Italia.(Read our recent Comparo containing the car here.)

As much as we do sound like?MP3 download and quiz-your friends, your own ringtone to make or only weigh with sweet, sweet of astronaut ear candy sleep.

2011 Ferrari 458 Italia exhaust MP3(Right click Save as...)

Mazda Furai concept: The fast and the Furai ious

From the December 2007 issue of motor trend Mazda Furai Concept Front Three Quarter View Furai is called and designer Franz von Holzhausen says it should look like streamers flapping in the wind. It is the fifth concept's Mazda Nagare (River) series and the Visual realization of Zoom-Zoom. If you say so Franz.But is the car roaring at Laguna Seca's pit lane. The words is not found. It looks So...so..itchin! I have fallen, sputtering seventh grade Superlatives.Furai's a concept that is breathtakingly simple on paper, but fiendishly complicated version: "Let's a full race chassis and drop take a concept car body at the top."

Naturally, there are more than that - 458-PS, triple rotor race-ready appliance need an engine in this case on pure ethanol (e100)-the first Rotary to do this. Mazda Rotary/ethanol combo called sustainable Zoom Zoom-not flowing fields of corn are spring, in the sense, if the Furai hits at the booth the quickly approaching 2008 Detroit car developed show.Furai in an exceptionally short amount of time for a concept. It was born in early 2007 and since then the gauntlet has of Holzhausen's team at a Furai OUs run pace (couldn't resist) to the car in running order. No time to test the design department timetable employs each of the clay Modeler, MAZDASPEED engineers were done basically crawling over each other to the car. For the power train guys meant that to be so that you could track start and run the car to the first painting-get up this morning at 5 am.

Thank goodness that there is an open decibels tag in Laguna, where we are called to check out of the Furai in all its flowing glory. Yet, I bet the track guys some Aufrufe-have-not about Furai of angry Phwooooaaaaarr then about the chopper amounts low around the track of grabbing video.In in addition to the aerial assault, the video team also a Porsche brought 911 GT3 as camera car. Mounted on the cover in a complex arrangement gaffers tape and suck Cup is a massive HD camera. Double camera mount for lead is disabled the back bumper / follow footage. It is an impressive Setup that managed to raise eyebrows even under the jaded crew of journalists in attendance. How the Furai starts flowing through Laguna's twists and turns, it is clear that today a lot after GT3, arriving at the mines some 5-10 will do round Porsche seconds after the Furai during its shakedown. And from what we're told that is Furai's driver easy.

Chevrolet reveals few 2008 Indy 500 Corvette pace car

From the December issue 2007 Motor Trend Chevrolet tempo revealed two Corvette variants, cars in the 2008 Indy 500-a custom Z06 running will be distributed by on E85 ethanol, which serve Indy 500 Corvette reminiscent of the Corvette's Indy 500.as unlike a revised fuel system twofold to the car on E85 ethanol run first appearance as a pace car at the 1978 Champ Emerson Fittipaldi and a 30th anniversary, the Corvette Z06 E85 is mechanically unchanged. The only other change to car, next to his wild, color change gold rush green paint finish accented by a pattern of the checkered flag on its sides, is necessary safety equipment of the vehicle. Vette E85 is a unique concept that will see only duty as a pace car in the race.

30Th anniversary commemorative edition Corvette, on the other hand, will be limited production type, both Coupe and convertible. GM announced 500 of vehicles will be made, although the distribution between hardtops and Droptops still not known.functionally, you fully laden 2008 Corvettes--complete with 436 horsepower LS3 V8- to either a manual or automatic transmission are. Corvette 3LT package Z51 performance package and the dual-mode exhaust system, all the standard equipment on the black and silver sprayed vehicle.The a number of new chromed Corvette PACER, feature is five-spoke aluminum wheels that are planned are to optional equipment for the 2008 model corvette, together with a rear spoiler from the Z06. The interior features a two-color titanium color scheme and embroidered Indianapolis 500 logos on the sit. Prices are at a later time, according to GM. announced

2008 Chervolet Corvette Z06 E85 Pace Car Front Three Quarter View 2008 Chervolet Corvette 30Th Anniversary Pace Car Front Three Quarter View 2008 Chervolet Corvette Pace Cars Front Three Quarter View

2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI diesel - first drive review

October 20, 2010 at 6: 18 pm by Mark Gillies

Greater but not as endearing as the old Jetta.

Here is Volkswagen's American dilemma: fans, as the manner of the brand engineered cars more expensive than their mainstream rivals, but it is difficult to Jettas in the same quantities has civics and Corollas to shift, if cars - both want to sell more cars, the North American arm quickly for VW as well as corporate leaders in Wolfsburg, Germany, Kunden.Weil - aim, sale of 2018 to triple - have more costs pushed a new plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee, and cut the new Jetta to the US market.

Keep reading: 2011 Volkswagen Jetta TDI diesel - first drive review