Wheego LiFe EV In L.A.
For those of you interested in getting a much overpriced Chinese ripoff of the Smart ForTwo, continue reading this article as Wheego just announced their 2011 Whip LiFe car. The pictures speak for themselves as far as the exterior looks are concerned so there is not much else we can tell you. Moving inside, those how are willing to get this car will be spoiled by the CD player, heater and let’s not forget about the DOT – Department Of Transportation approved seatbelts. If you want air conditioning, you will have to pay extra money, and by extra we mean almost $2,000 (£1,240 / €1,455) more.
The heart of this ForTwo clone is a 30 kWh lithium-ion battery that sends power to a 20 hp (20 PS / 15 kW) electric motor, capable of offering a 95 lb-ft (129 Nm) torque. The top speed of the 2011 Whip LiFe is 105 km/h (65 mph) and has 161 km (100 miles) autonomy on a single charge. The weight is 1,210 kg (2,667 lb).
The model will be available next month at a basic price of $32,995 (£20,555 / €24,070), which is $215 (£135 / €155) more in comparison to a more reliable and known car, the Nissan Leaf.
Post tags: Tags: eco, Green, wheego
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Audi has finally allowed us to see their new RS 3 Sportback after years and years of anticipation and hopes. The heart of the 2012 RS3 will be a 2.5-liter five-cylinder power unit that is capable of producing 335 hp (340 PS / 250 kW) and a 450 Nm of torque; it is the same engine used for the TT-RS model. The care will feature Audi’s Quattro AWD and a modern 7-speed S-tronic gearbox.
The car weighs 3,472 lb (1,575 kg) and is capable of reaching 100 km/h from flat in just 4.6 seconds, stopping at an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h). What is even more worth mentioning besides these figures is the mpg level which stands at only 25.85 (9.1 liter / 100 km). The CO2 emissions of the RS3 will be leveling at 212 g/km.
Being a sporty version of the A3, the German technicians at Audi used an aluminum intensive sport suspension that features MacPherson struts up front and in the back a four-link setup. In order to safely brake the car, Audi installed a high performance braking system that features ventilated disks (370 mm in the front and 310 mm for the rear wheels).
As far as the design of this new model is concerned, it can easily be spotted by the aggressive front look and the anthracite grille. It will come as standard with CFRP – carbon fiber reinforced plastic fender flares and xenon headlights. In comparison with the standard A3 model, the RS 3 is 25 mm lower, comes with a dual exhaust system, matt aluminum accents, 19-inch alloy rims and aerodynamic side skirts.
Moving inside the Audi RS3, we get sports seats covered in the finest Nappa leather available (with silver contrasting stiching), an Aluminum Race (or Piano Black) trim, an updated driver information system with a lap timer and a flat-bottomed steering wheel.
The car will be available on sale in Germany as of January next year at a base price of €49,900.
Post tags: Tags: Audi, rs3, sportback
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Gone In 60 Seconds
The Oklahoma-based American tuner Classic Recreations brought back to life “Elanor” – the 1967 Shelby GT500, at the 2010 SEMA show earlier this month. Dubbed “G.T.500CR”, it is a recreation of the original car, not a restoration. Recreation means that it has all the modern technologies available in most cars on sale now, like a coil-over suspension or an overdrive transmission, but keeping the original look of the automobile that made it famous.
In Las Vegas at the SEMA Show, CR brought two exemplars of the car; one was displayed at Cobra Electronics while the other was available at the Ford booth. Both cars have a massive hand-built 7.0-liter (427 cubic inch) engine, capable of producing 406 kW (545 bhp). The car is offered with a Tremec manual gearbox, Shelby 427 17-inch rims and Carroll Shelby signature gauges and seats for the interior.
To maintain the original look of the 1967 model, Classic Recreations equipped the car with 1967 door panels, an aluminum steering wheel, dash and trim along with the woodgrain. This 545 bhp monster is available for sale at a starting price of $119,000. The American tuners promised a more powerful Venom variant for 2011, capable of outputting 780 bhp. Prices start at $199,000 for this model.
Post tags: Tags: cobra, gt 500, sema, shelby
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Gran Turismo 5 Screenshot
One of the most anticipated video games of all time is without any doubt Gran Turismo 5 developed by Polyphony Digital, exclusively for Sony’s PlayStation 3 console. After several delays, the game will finally be available this week at a MSRP of $59, 99. GT5 will feature more than 1,000 licensed cars from almost all top manufacturers, except for Porsche because the Need For Speed series have bought the license for these cars. Gamers will have the possibility to choose from one of the 20 tracks available with more than 70 variations that will include city courses, famous world circuits as well as other environments plus a track creator.
A premiere for the Gran Turismo franchise will be the very complex online and community feature set that will allow up to 16 players through the Playstation Network. Another innovation brought to the game is the real-time visual damage with adaptive and accurate car deformations, based upon the point of impact and velocity. Gamers will now be able to drive the cars in various weather conditions including rain and snow (only available for certain tracks) as well as the ability to play during the night (also available for selected circuits).
GT 5 will have licensed NASCAR and WRC cars, plus a couple of karts. The game will feature an improved Photo travel mode that will allow the players to take pictures of their favorite cars with the help of a virtual digital SLR camera that works in both 2D and stereoscopic 3D for enhanced realism. The Arcade Mode of the game will include the regular single player mode as well as a split screen 2 player mod for you and your closest friend. The GT Mode will feature a World Map, My Garage, Car Dealer, Tuning Shop, Championship Race and a License Test.
Gran Turismo 5 Screenshot
For online players, Polyphony Digital added an Open Lobby, Text / Voice Chat, Private Room, Online Photo Album, Online Replay Album and the possibility to export replays directly to YouTube. The game will feature some memorable cars like the Citroen GT, WWII VW Kubelwagen, VW Schwimmwagen and the X1 Prototype.
For those of you interested in purchasing the game you already know that it will be available in three editions: standard, collector and signature. The Standard Edition is the regular one, without any of the extras available for the other two configurations. The Collector’s Edition has a 100$ price tag and will include an exclusive Special Edition inlay sleeve art; a 200+ page “Apex” driver’s magazine with hints on driving techniques, car tuning, future technologies and a lot more. Other extras include the in-game “Chrome Line” vehicle pack which consists of five performance-enhanced cars ready to race. The last bonus is an exclusive dynamic theme to customize your PlayStation 3 XMB.
For those of willing to pay even more, PD will be offering the Signature Edition that features a steel case, colored with the “Obsidian Black”, available for the Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG. Besides the game, the ChromeLine car pack and the “Apex” driver’s magazine, you will also get the following: an exclusive, branded SLS AMG 1:43 scale model, bespoke GT 5 USB key, SE coffee table book and the list goes on. The most important feature is the possibility to win a real-life Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG equipped with a 6.3-liter engine. The contest is available for selected countries.
In the following days we will be offering an in-depth review about the most anticipated racing game of all times.
Post tags: Tags: gran, sony, turismo
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German tuner speedART will be exhibiting at the 2010 Essen Motor Show the 2nd generation Porsche Cayenne-based TITAN-EVO. Power upgrades are available for the S Hybrid, diesel and the Turbo. The S Hybrid can get a 70 Nm / 50 PS power boost, the diesel a 50 Nm / 70 PS increase while the Turbo gets extra 150 Nm / 100 PS.
The speedHYBRID 450 based upon the 2nd generation Porsche Cayenne SUV will have a total output of 331 kW (450 PS), allowing the car to reach 100 km/h from start in just 5.9 seconds, in comparison to the 6.5 seconds that are needed for the standard Cayenne. The top speed also increased to 252 km/h, a little more than Porsche’s 242 km/h. For Turbo owners, speedART is offering three choices for increasing the power: 550, 570 or 600 PS.
Besides the significant power increase, the tuning also consists of a very aggressive body kit that features new widening side skirts, wide fender flares, front and rear skirts. The German engineers can equip the car with a new sport exhaust system that features a sound switch control for the cars with petrol power units with a separate sport exhaust without the sound control for diesel models.
SpeedART offers an electronic lowering module for the Cayenne’s that have air suspension while for the rest, the Germans offer a set of sport lowering springs and coil-overs. The cars will ride on big 23-inch CTS-FORGED 11×23” rims, covered by 315/25 ZR 23 tires.
Post tags: Tags: Porsche, speedart, titan evo
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The 2012 Infinity M Hybrid made its public debut yesterday at the Los Angeles Auto Show and it will be the first hybrid sedan manufactured by Nissan Motors’ luxury division. The M35h will be available for sale in the next spring and will use a parallel hybrid system that will be combined with a 7-speed automatic transmission and a RWD.
The Infinity has a 3.5-liter V6 paired to a 50-kilowatt electric motor that give a combined power of 360 hp and a 258 pound-feet torque. In addition, the electric motor is capable of producing an additional 199 lb-ft of twist off the line for acceleration. The car will be able to reach 62 mph running only with the electric motor.
Although official figures regarding the fuel consumption are not available at the moment, Infiniti says that most likely the M Hybrid will do 25 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon on the highway – 27 mpg combined. Although these figures sound very good if not excellent, they tend to pale in comparison to the 429 hp V8 5.0-liter direct-injected power plant developed by Hyundai that consumes only 26 mph on the highway. Of course, this is just the beginning of the electric motor era. In the future we will most likely see new innovations in this department.
The 2012 Infiniti M Hybrid will come with the all-new proprietary Direct Response Hybrid system – a very advanced, one-motor / two-clutch parallel hybrid concept that will combine high-speed motor control technology with the powerful Lithium-ion battery that will allow the entire power to be delivered to the car’s 7-speed automatic gearbox.
The car will also benefit from an Electric Driven Intelligent Brake regenerative braking system plus a new Hybrid Electric Power Steering system which will make the process of driving the car very pleasant and natural at the same time. Other important features of the M Hybrid include: Active Trace Control, Blind Spot Intervention, Infiniti Intelligent Key with Push Button Ignition, Blind Spot Warning and power sliding glass tinted moon roof.
Infiniti’s Vice President Ben Poore, affirmed that “Simply put, the Infiniti M Hybrid will be the most advanced performance luxury sedan hybrid in the market, delivering V8 power and 4-cylinder fuel efficiency.”
At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Infinity was named by the Automotive Lease Guide as the “Best Luxury Brand” and the QX56 model won the award for the “Best Luxury Fullsize Utility’”.
Post tags: Tags: Hybrid, infinity
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2011 Mercedes SLK Safety Features
The next generation of the Mercedes Benz SLK will be officially launched in January next year and will implement a bundle of new efficient safety technologies. As standard, the car will feature Adaptive Brake and Attention Assist systems. The Adaptive Brake will hold the automobile at a stop light or at an incline without forcing the driver to maintain his foot on the brake pedal so that the car will go in reverse. This innovative system will bring the SLK’s brake pads in contact with the brake disks once the driver’s foot is removed from the accelerator for a fast response which will also aid the driver to keep full control even during rainy conditions when the asphalt is wet.
The Attention Assist system will announce the driver with various warnings to avoid collisions thanks to features like a drowsiness detector. As an optional feature, the 2011 SLK can be equipped with a Distronic Plus proximity system that can fully adjust the distance to the car in front to a safer level or with a Pre-Safe Brake system (which was initially introduced by Volvo) that is capable of detecting possible imminent crashes with the aid of various sensors that will try to stop the car on its own.
The SLK can be equipped with a Speed Limit Assist feature that can detect limit signs with the help of a camera located inside the windscreen which will indicate the respective detected speed limit on a display in the instrument cluster. Another important safety feature is the Intelligent Light System that has the following five functions: Enhanced fog lamps, Active Light System, Motorway mode, Country mode and Cornering light function – which can be activated depending upon the various driving conditions.
2011 Mercedes SLK Spy Photo
The PARKTRONIC system will include Parking Guidance which will ease the life of the driver while parking the SLK thanks to the ultrasonic sensors that are able to measure the length of parking spaces as the car drives past. The driver will look onto the cockpit display where he will receive a schematic representation of the most recommended parking method.
The engineers at Mercedes also took into consideration the safety of the pedestrians when they designed the 2011 SLK model. The car will be equipped with a sensor system that is capable of registering an impact with a pedestrian and can guarantee that the bonnet is instantly raised at 85 mm which will create an additional space between the various parts in the engine compartment and the bonnet of the SLK. This will result in lower acceleration values for the head of the pedestrian during the collision which will reduce the risk of serious injuries.
In order to detect an impact with a pedestrian, the SLK will come standard with acceleration sensors in the front bumper and additional pressure sensors in the doors. In the case of an accident, the SLK’s lateral satellite and up-front sensors help the central control unit to predict the severity and nature of the collision.
For the people in the car, the German engineers installed a new headbag system and crash-responsive head restraints. The safety standards of the Mercedes are guaranteed by the seat belts that have speed-sensitive belt force limiters and belt buckle tensioners. The headbag will offer a more generous lateral support for the head impact area. The extra (optional) thorax airbag located in the seat backrest will efficiently protect the upper side of the body in the unfortunate event of a side collision.
We are very eager to find out what other features will the next generation of the Mercedes SLK bring once the car is officially launched in January.
Post tags: Tags: mercedes, roadster, slk
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Back in August, German tuning manufacturer G-Power released their version of the BMW M5 that established the World’s Fastest Sedan record. It has a top speed of 231 mph (372 km/h), similar to the legendary McLaren F1 launched in the 90s. The M5 Hurricane RR is the reiteration of the RS version that used a 551 kW (750 hp) V10 twin-supercharged engine, which was able to hit a top speed of 228 mph (367.4 km/h).
The M5 HRR received a 6.67% boost in power and was equipped with a 588 kW (800 hp) engine that has a whopping 590l lb-ft (800 Nm) torque. The car is able to reach 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 4.35 seconds and 200 km/h (124 mph) in 9.5 sec. It will need about 25.8 seconds to get to 186 mph (300 km/h).
In order to achieve a respectable 25% space increase for the air volume, G-Power installed generous superchargers. The M5 RR sports 19-inch wheels covered by Michelin Pilot Sport Tires.
The current record might be taken down once the Bugatti 16C Galiber is officially available with its 8.0-liter 16 cylinder engine like the Veyron, but using superchargers (not turbochargers). The Bugatti will most likely be available starting with the second part of 2012.
Recently G-Power came with another great car, the M6 Hurricane RR, based on the BMW M6. It has the same V10 800 PS & 800 Nm engine as the M5 version. Again, G-Power claims that this model is “world’s fastest 4-seat coupe.”
Although the coupe is quite heavy at almost 2,000 kg, it will only needs 4.35 seconds to do 0-100 km/h. For 0-200 km/h, the M6 Hurricane RR will need 9.5 seconds. 0-300 km/h is done in 24.9 seconds. This powerful model will roll on G-Power Silverstone Clubsport 20 inch forged rims (10 x 20 in the back, 9 x 20 in the front), covered by the 285/30ZR20 & 255/35ZR20 high performance tires.
For those of you interested in the M6 Hurricane RR, the basic price is €252,100 (including the standard BMW M6 car).
Post tags: Tags: BMW, g-power, m5, m6, Tuning
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Hamann Rolls Out The Flash Evo M
Based on the BMW X5 M, the Hamann Flash EVO M features an aggressive body kit that matches with the extra muscles of this powerful SUV. In the front we have a spoiler that sports LED daytime running lights and generous air intakes that allow a more efficient cooling of the brakes and power unit. The standard bonnet of the X5 M was replaced with a carbon fiber one and the car also got side sill bars, carbon fiber mirror heads, a rear spoiler, side wings for the wheel arches, roof spoiler and fender extensions. In addition to all of these upgrades, the Flash Evo M is equipped with a sport exhaust system that features center-mounted double-pipes which are integrated into the new diffuser.
The most important upgrade over the original model can be found in the engine compartment. The hardware modifications brought by Hamann allow the engine to output 449 kW (610 PS) and an incredible torque of 780 Nm. The standard BMW X5 M has “only” 408 kW (555 PS) and a 680 Nm torque. If this engine upgrade is not enough for most customers, Hamann can fit the SUV with a HM 670 sports kit that offers 493 kW (670 PS) and a 950 Nm torque.
The car now is 30 mm lower thanks to the progressively wound suspension that allows the driver to handle the car better at speeds that can reach 300 km/h. The car will be riding on big 22 or 23-inch light alloy rims. For stopping this fast SUV, Hamann developed a very efficient braking system by using massive 405 mm diameter brake discs for the front wheels and 340 mm diameter brake discs for the wheels in the back. The 6-pot calipers provide the needed delay at the front axle and the 4-pot calipers do the same job on the rear axle. In order to prevent and avoid fading during high stress, the Flash Evo M features flex brake lines.
Moving on in the inside, we find the carbon & stainless-steel sill with the “Hamman” illuminated logo. In addition, you get a nice quilted leather interior stitching and Alcantara. The car comes with “Hamman” floor mats as well as a trunk mat that round up the luxurious interior look.
Post tags: Tags: BMW, flash evo, hamann, suv, x5 m
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Compared to the 2010 model, this new version is $1,000 more expensive but it is definitely worth it as it is a giant step forward in terms of looks, technology and powertrains. Although it is more expensive, it still is cheaper than the 2011 Hyundai Sonata – the Korean cousin.
What do you get if you purchase the basic model? You get power window and door locks, USB interface for your iPod and Sirius Satellite. A more expensive trim is the LX, which has a starting price of $20,495. The LX comes equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission, alloy wheels, an eco mode and cruise control. For extra cash, you could get the EX trim that comes with dual zone climate control, eight-way power driver’s seat, 17-inch wheels, leather seating surfaces and a neat push-button start.
For those of you that want a little more muscle under the hood, the 2011 Kia Optima is available with the EX Turbo configuration that offers a powerful 274 hp engine, special interior accents and a redesigned front grille. For this version you have to pay $24, 495, a little more than the Sonata Turbo ($24, 145). The most expensive trim is the SX, with a starting price of $25, 995. For this version you will get a bundle of interior upgrades, LED taillights, HID headlamps, revised lower trim, a sport-tuned suspension and attractive 18-inch rims.
We feel that the most affordable version of the 2011 Kia Optima comes at a reasonable price taking into consideration what it has to offer. If you are wondering about the resale value of this model, you need to know that value experts at ALG, inc. affirm that this new model will retain 53% of its original value after three years which is a considerable 66% increase over the current model.
Post tags: Tags: Kia, optima
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Besides the Murano CrossCabriolet premiere at the Los Angeles Auto Show, the Japanese manufacturer Nissan also presented the 2012 version of its famous GT-R model. What you need to remember about it? Two figures – 530 horsepower and 488 Nm of torque.
530 hp is 45 more in comparison to the original GT-R model and engineers at Nissan say that this boost will allow the car to reach 60 mph in less than three seconds. This horsepower boost was possible courtesy of the twin-turbo packed into the six combustion chambers along with more generous exhaust pipes and a larger inlet.
The list of modifications does not end here as the GT-R will be available with several body modifications like an enlarged front fascia, grill openings, LED running lights plus double rectifier fins. These changes will permit a more efficient air flow to the engine compartment and sweep across front brakes for better cooling. The redesigned rear fascia will lower the GT-R’s center of gravity.
All of these aerodynamic improvements made to the car, along with a rear diffuser and underbody trays translate into a coefficient of drag that was reduced to 0.26. The 2012 edition will benefit from Rays wheels, red-trimmed Recaro sport seats and new across-the-range carbon interior highlights. The selection of colors include Gun Metallic, Pearl White, Solid Red as well as a limited edition four-stage metallic Super Silver which will join two new shades: Jet Black and Deep Blue Pearl.
The 2012 Nissan GT-R basic price starts from $89,950 while the Premium and Black Edition models have a standard price from $95,100.
Post tags: Tags: gt-r, Nissan
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Lamborghini's V12 700 HP Engine
The Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini recently revealed new information about its latest and greatest engine – the 6.5-liter V12 that will be able to output a power of 700 hp (515 kW) and 690 Nm of torque. Most likely, this engine will power the Aventador, which will be the replacement of the famous Murcielago model.
Internally known as the L539, this new power plant is naturally aspirated and offers the 700 PS at 8,250 rpm and the 690 Nm torque at 5,500 rpm. This powerful engine was entirely developed by the Italian manufacturer at the Sant’Agata Bolognese facility. The motor features a classic cylinder bank of 60 degrees and sports a very compact design at only 665 mm tall, 848 mm wide and 784 mm in length. The cylinder stroke is 76.5 mm and the bore diameter is 95 mm. Its nitride-hardened crankshaft has a weight of 24.6 kg and the overall weight of the power plant is only 234 kg. This powerful V12 6.5-liter engine features two mufflers (one low-volume; one high-volume) in a single casing.
Lamborghini's V12 700 HP Engine
In addition to this engine development, Lamborghini also created the ISR – Independent Shifting Rods 7-speed transmission. It is a single-clutch gearbox that instantly changes gears thanks to the independent shifting rods. The Italian engineers affirm that in comparison to a dual-clutch gearbox, this ISR gearbox only needs half the time to switch between gears. This newly developed gearbox with its independent shift rods functions very similar to a regular dual-clutch model – one rod is disengaging the current gear while the secondary rod is already engaging the next desired gear.
We all know how obsessed (in a good way) engineers at Lamborghini are with reducing weight and therefore they did everything to slim down this new gearbox and the result was a very easy 70 kg unit. This new transmission features three driver settings, as follows: Strada, Sport and Corsa. The latter is configured for high-performance driving and includes a launch control function.
We are eager to find out how the new engine and gearbox will perform in what seems to be Lamborghini’s next big hit: the Aventador.
Post tags: Tags: aventador, Lamborghini, murcielago
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Dodge has recently released full information about the facelift 2011 Dodge Durango. Based originally on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Durango has a very aggressive appearance with a prominent grille and “coke-bottled” styling. Joe Dehner, who is the chief designer of Dodge: “we took the performance car mantra from our own backyard and applied the formula to Durango. The Durango and Charger were designed at the same time, allowing the bold styling from the Charger to spill over to our all-new three-row SUV.”
The basic model, dubbed “Express” is offered with 18-inch alloy wheels, sapphire blue ambient lighting and automatic tri-zone climate control. For more money, you could get the “Crew” version that sports memory seats, an Alpine audio system, a power liftgate and a rear backup camera. For extra money, clients can get a rear-seat entertainment system and GPS navigation.
There is also a sportier version of the Durango, named “R/T” that sports a reduced ride height – lowered 20 mm, massive 20-inch aluminum rims as well as a monotone appearance. Clients can also get a collision warning system, heated seats (front + rear) and leather upholstery, for additional money.
If you prefer a more luxurious ride, Dodge offers the 2011 Durango in the “Citadel” version, which comes with 20-inch chrome wheels, a distinct front grille, heated steering wheel, HID – High Intensity Discharge headlights and perforated Nappa leather seats.
Clients can opt from one of the two engines available; a V6 3.6-liter capable of offering 290 hp (216 kW / 294 PS) and a 260 lb-ft (353 Nm) torque. With this engine, the Durango can tow up to 6,200 pounds (2,812 kg) and eats up 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway with the rear wheel drive activated. Using the all wheel drive system, it will do 16 mpg in the city and 22 mpg on the highway.
The other power unit is a HEMI 5.7-liter V8 that outputs 360 hp (268 kW / 365 PS) and a massive torque of 390 lb-ft (520 Nm). This powerful HEMI engine will do 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway, using the rear wheel drive. For the all wheel drive system, the figures are 13 mpg city and 20 mpg highway.
The 2011 Dodge Durango will begin sales in December at a base price of $29,195 with the destination charge included.
Post tags: Tags: Dodge, durango, suv
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Possible Porsche Cajun Project Sketch
Officials from the German manufacturer Porsche affirmed at the Los Angeles Auto Show that they are thinking of producing a small SUV and a sports car smaller than the Boxster, with the main purpose of doubling worldwide sales in the next three years. The head of sales and marketing at Porsche AG, Bernhard Maier, confirmed that the company is considering smaller and less expensive automobiles “but we have taken no decision so far”.
The small SUV has a code name “Cajun”- which is short for Cayenne Jr. Maier affirmed that the worldwide success of the SUV has given Porsche enough confidence to “investigate if there are other opportunities.” The head of sales and marketing also stated that the alternatives would be to develop the Cajun project in-house, share a platform with another VW Group brand or use a partner. He did not confirm the fact that the Cajun will begin production in 2013. He also did not say that this small SUV will be based on the Audi Q5 nor it will share its components.
2011 Porsche Boxster Spyder
Maier affirmed that by creating a smaller less expensive SUV would be a good way for the German manufacturer to increase its revenues and “follow the growth plan of the company.” The CEO of VW – Martin Winterkorn affirmed that he wants Porsche to expand its global sales from the current 75,000 units per year to 150,000 by 2014. After 2009 when Porsche failed to take control of VW, the VW Group bought 49, 9 percent of Porsche AG.
Besides the smaller SUV, Porsche has a plan for producing a sports car smaller than the Boxster. Maier affirmed that “if we would be able to find a car that will be best in class and share all the DNA of Porsche.” According to reports, this new model will use a new VW Group mid-engine platform that will be used also by the VW Bluesport sports cars that will be launched in 2013. Maier said that there is no timeframe for a decision to create such a model that will possibly increase global revenues.
Post tags: Tags: boxster, cayenne, Porsche
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2011 Toyota Corolla Revealed
One of the models exhibited at the Los Angeles Auto Show by Toyota is the 2011 facelift of the popular Toyota Corolla which will go on sale this December in the United States. The most important exterior changes made to the car in comparison with the old version include the fully redesigned front bumper, front lower grille, radiator grille, headlamps, rear bumper, reflex reflector and the rear combination lamp.
The engine that will power the 2011 version is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder DOHC engine with Dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT-i) that will be able to produce 132 bhp (99 kW) and a 128 lb-ft (173 Nm) torque. The gearbox will be either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. The car will have a mileage rating of 28 mpg city (8.4 liters / 100 km) and 35 (6.72 liters / 100 km) highway using the manual transmission. Using the 4-speed automatic gearbox, the care will consume 26 mpg in the city and 34 mpg on the highway.
The facelift version will be available in two trim levels – LE and S. The car will benefit from the Star Safety System with stability and traction control. The S version will feature 16-inch wheels in comparison to the LE model which will have standard 15-inch rims.
Post tags: Tags: corolla, facelift, Toyota
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