Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Fuel Economy. Mostrar todas las entradas
Mostrando entradas con la etiqueta Fuel Economy. Mostrar todas las entradas

miércoles, 6 de enero de 2010

Mustangs New Design

Mustang fans will certainly see styling cues from several different Mustang model years: From the '69-'70 upper quarter styling to the sharper '67-'68 fender lines and hockey stick body side styling, to the new grille and headlamps. Even the Pony emblem got a redesign for 2010, with a leaner-looking horse in a dark chrome finish. "Everything we tried to do with this car's new exterior design is represented in the new Pony," said Gaffka. "It tells the whole story. It's athletic, aggressive and modern."

Up front, the new headlights feature inboard turn signals, moved up from the corners of the fascia. GT models feature dark chrome trim around the lights, whereas the base model V-6 has a traditional chrome appearance. The leading edge of the hood still hangs over the grille, but not nearly as much as the earlier S197 models, and we noticed a lot less hood flutter as a result (actually, it was none existent, in our test driving). The GT still utilizes grille -mounted foglamps, which look much more proportioned to the headlamps now. The V-6 Pony Package cars will get their foglamps in the lower fascia, like previous generation Cobras and the Gt-500 ). The front of the new Mustang is lower and appears wider (due to the splitter), leading into sharply sculpted wheel arches pushing out of the fenders.The front splitter not only adds to the car's muscular overtone, but also aids in stability and fuel economy. Finally, the new hood features a domed power bulge that aggressive looking and quit sharp, but is not so cumbersome that we noticed it from  the drivers seat. Moving down the flanks, 2010 utilizes the same door glass, but the door structure is modified from the S197 with the new outer skin and some minor changes inside facilitate the sexy new door panels (more on the interior a bit later ). The side mirrors are all new (Yes, finally!) and while they still have great visibility, engineers spent many hours in the wind tunnel making the mirror's profile more subdued while making it quieter at speed as well. Best of all, the main mirror body is now painted body color from the factory (sorry Mr. Aftermarket).

Out back, the rear-wheel arches carry the same muscular tone from the front of the car. The rear of the Mustang has a wraparound feel to it now with chamfered corners and a tapered rear fascia, all in the name of making the Mustang look more compact. The new two-piece fear fascia, body-colored upper half and black lower, enhance the Mustang's width and stance by reducing the car's overall height visually. The Mustang's decklid spoiler has had its pedestals simplified, while the trunk lid loses the age-old trunk lock keyhole and the antenna finds its way to the right rear quarter-panel (though we'd much rather see it gone altogether in favor of an in-glass antenna).

Probably the most exciting part of the new Mustang's hind quarters has to be the full LED tail lamps. The new tail lamps possess the must-have tri-bar element design, each red chamber individually lit by a Luxion LED and separated by two vertical backup lamp segments to ensure the tri-bar design is recognized day or night. Unlike previous tri-bar designs, the 2010 Mustang utilizes all three chambers for brake light illumination, and the turn signal activation is sequential from the factory (once again, sorry, Mr. Aftermarket).

Meat and Potatoes

It's not just another pretty face for the Mustang - not at all. While the main drive line hardware remains unchanged  in 2010 (4.6L Three-Valve  in the GT and 4.0L SOHC V-6 in the base), the Mustang power-train engineers did see fit to up the ante a bit on the GT with a new cold-air induction system that breathes through the main frontal area behind the left headlamp and not the inner fender. The true ram-air box is exclusive to the Mustang and extensive tuning and sealing of the box was done to make it all work. The cold-air system actually outflows the '08 Bullitt cold-air system, thanks to some engineering help from the boys in red over at Ford Racing Performance Parts. Along with the cold-air system, some ECM calibration tweaks.
Vancouver B.C. Car Info
vancouvercarinfo.com/
Wpg Auto Dealer

sábado, 28 de noviembre de 2009

More About 2009 Infiniti G37 Coupe

Two-part-bed-plate construction which is more rigid than a single piece casting for reduced vibration levels. It also permits sustained use at higher revs: the V6 is red-lined at 7,500rpm.

By continually altering valve lift and therefore the quantity of air in the combustion chamber it provides a more powerful combustion phase to increase torque and power. Best of all, as the valves control the intake rather than a conventional butterfly, response to throttle inputs is immediate. WEL improves fuel economy and lowers emissions compared to standard valve lift systems.

In keeping with the performance profile of the Coupe, infiniti engineers have developed a special aural soundtrack for the car. Equal length tubular exhaust manifolds and a symmetrical exhaust and silencer system have allowed the engineers to create a linear sound with a good balance between low and high frequency notes.

Infiniti G37 Coupe uses the second-generation version of Infiniti's FM platform. The 'front midship' engine location sees the compact V6 mounted in the front of the car, but as low and as far back as possible, with most of the block behind the front axle line. The result lowers the centre of gravity and helps to deliver the optimum front to rear weight distribution.

The fully independent suspension uses lightweight aluminum components to reduce weight as much as possible. A double wishbone set up at the front and a subframe-mounted multi-link arrangement at the rear allied to an extremely rigid body shell, gives the Infiniti G37 Coupe agile handling perfectly in keeping with its performance potential.

Standard features include the intelligent I-key with smart access and push button starter, a six-disc, seven speaker audio system with an RCA AUX-in jack socket for MP3 players. Bluetooth phone connectivity and cruise control with speed limiter can all be operated via switches on the leather-trimmed multi-function steering wheel.

Other standard features include power seats, aluminum pedals and footrest, auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors, automatic lights and wipers, 18-inch alloy wheels, six airbags and integrated fog lamps. For the perfect driving position, the binnacle is attached not to the dashboard but to the steering column itself, and moves with the wheel when the latter is adjusted for reach and  rake.

The G37 GT version adds extra comfort with leather upholstery, a 10-way power driver's seat with lumbar support and  memory and an 8-way powered passenger front seat. Heated front seats are also standard and the I-key incorporates memory positions for driver's seat, steering wheel column and door mirrors.

High levels of passive safety were a priority at the design stage. As a result, the Infiniti G37 Coupe has a full complement of six airbags, with dual-stage front airbags, seat belt sensors and passenger seat occupancy sensor. The front seats incorporate hip and thorax bags, while there are front-to-rear curtain airbags for protection in a side impact.

Testing every Infiniti in the harshest of conditions ensures the durability and peace of mind that buyers can expect from the products.
Vancouver B.C. Car Info
vancouvercarinfo.com/
Wpg Auto Dealer

viernes, 9 de octubre de 2009

Flex Marks the Spot: The Box Ford's Future Comes In

New York, N.Y. - It is, hands down, the best new product to emerge from Ford of Canada's Oakville assembly plant in years. Globally it is Ford's boldest, most original and refreshing new vehicle.

     With a long-list of innovations and style unique to its class, Ford's full-sized 2009 Flex crossover might at first glance appear to be on a collision course with rising gasoline prices. Gas-sipping microcars aren't ideal for everyone, however, especially those who regularly carry up to a half dozen passengers and their luggage or sports equipment.

     Among the current crop of SUVs' pickup trucks and even cross-over-utility vehicles, the Flex is an out-of-the-box front-runner.

     Offered in Canada in two trim levels, it starts at $34,999 MSRP for the well-equipped front wheel-drive SEL, and runs to $42,999 for the all wheel-drive Limited.

     Designers opted for radically distinctive styling in as two-box design with signature horizontal side grooves, 'all-black' green-house and two-tone roof in white or silver.

     Power is delivered via Ford's smooth 3.5-litre V6 Duratec engine linked to an equally smooth, six-speed automatic transmission that it shares with the Taurus X. It makes 262 hp at 6,250 rpm and 248 lb-ft of torque at 4,500 revs.

     Ford projects fuel economy numbers of 12.6 L/100 km (city) and 8.4 L/100 km (hwy) for the front-wheel-drive Flex and 13.5 (city) and 9.5 (hwy) with AWD. Flex will be available next year with the turbocharged ecoBoost engine.

     Inside, the Flex seats six (or seven, with the no-cost optional second row 60/40 folding bench seat) with ample space and comfort and upscale features and details. Thoughtful features include coat and grocery-bag hooks and storage compartments throughout.

     Class-leading technologies include SYNC, voice-activated navigation with reverse camera system, premium Sony sound system and 'surprise-and-delight' features like Ford's EasyFuel cap-less refueling nozzle and exclusive, compressor-driven refrigerated console.

viernes, 2 de octubre de 2009

Chevy Cobalt SS Turbocharged & Dodge Caliber SRT4

Compared to most of our other sport compacts, Chevy and Dodge are newcomers to the game. The Dodge has a leg up going into its second generation SRT4, and the Chevy Cobalt SS got a big engine swap after only a couple of years on the market, but they are still both the newest entries to the sport compact scene in this group. Interestingly, the Yanks are playing the import game, with prices that will shock you considering how much they deliver for right around $25K. In fact, I'm not even sure it's responsible to be selling this much power this cheaply.

Then again, this type of car isn't exactly about responsibility, although when driven responsibly in a safe setting like a track or an autocross course, both have a lot to offer, and both return excellent fuel economy if you keep it in check  on weekdays. The Caliber has the edge in wheels and tires (hello, Goodyear Eagle F1s on shiny 19-inch rims), but it still might be a case of to much power. Despite being harnessed by engine management trickery (torque is limited to 214 in first and 245 in second), power gets lost and the car starts to wander around on quick launches as the traction control alternately brakes one front wheel and then the other. Despite the odd sensation, it's still faster than any compact 5-door hatchback has any right to be, and the practicality and loaded options list mean it is a steal. Of course, so is the Cobalt SS Turbocharged, making the switch from the 2007's supercharged 2.0 to the turbocharged, direct-injected 2.0L 4-cylinder first seen in the Solstice GXP and Sky Redline. Not only is it a huge jump from 205 to 260 horsepower, but torque also gains 60-lb-ft, up to 260 from 200. But the real magic of the Cobalt is how it handles all this power, practically banishing torque steer and delivering flat cornering without a punishing ride. But at the end of the day, both of these Americans show their economy car roots with ordinary interiors full of hard grey plastic, but for the price of entry, it's about what you should expect if you want your money spent purely on performance.

miércoles, 30 de septiembre de 2009

2009 KIA Optima

Optima is in a strong position to change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings

FROM NETCARSHOW.COM

Kia Motors America (KMA) unveiled the 2009 Kia Optima midsize sedan at the New York International Auto Show. On sale in early fall, the refreshed Optima offers a completely modified exterior, which offers a more aggressive, dynamic style than previous models, and is outfitted with a new engine that provides more power and better fuel economy. For 2009, Optima also is larger than its predecessors, which complements its distinctive new styling and separates itself from other vehicles in the growing midsize segment.

"Optima is in a strong position to  change the way consumers think about midsize sedan offerings," said Tom Loveless, vice president, sales of KMA. "Already known for its exemplary quality, safety and value, Optima's sleek new redesign provides consumers with a sporty, fuel-efficient choice and showcases Kia's commitment to providing the best all-around vehicle package."

The 2009 Kia Optima is presented with new front, side and rear styling cues, which build upon Kia's philosophy of creating dynamic vehicles that evoke passion. The fog lamps and lower front grille have been enlarged and the headlamps narrowed to create an aggressively sharper look. Wider side garnishes add sportiness while the acute front lines continue toward the back, ending on a distinctly edged trunk lid. To complete the redesigned rear fascia, taillights are narrowed to enhance Optima's sleeker cosmetic appearance.

Also, new for 2009 is the addition of the sporty SX trim, which complements the handsomely equipped, value-priced LX and luxury-oriented EX trims. Already available with Kia's Rio, Rio5, Spectra and Spectra5 models, the SX line provides another dimension for Optima buyers looking for a sportier midsize. Along with a sport-tuned suspension, SX upgrades include: a black-bezeled front grille and headlamps, LED outside-mirror turning signals, fog lights and hyper-silver-finished 17-inch wheels. EX and LV V6 models are equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, and are fitted with Goodyear tires.

Available in two powerplants - a 2.4 liter four-cylinder or a 2.7-liter V6 engine - and two five-speed transmissions (manual with LX four-cylinder model only), the 2009 Kia Optima introduces a new engine under its hood. When redesigned as a 2006.5 model, the peppy four-cylinder engine delivered 161 horsepower, a 15-percent increase from the previous generation. For 2009, a more powerful 2.4-liter engine takes its place, producing an additional 13 horsepower. Optima's four-cylinder output increases to 175 horsepower and 169 lb-ft of torque. The available 2.7 liter V6 engine remains a carryover but output has increased to 190 horsepower and 184 lb-ft or torque. The V6 is mated to a five-speed, gated automatic transmission. All automatics feature Sportmatic clutchless shifting.

The introductions of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) and a Variable Intake System (VIS) further enhance Optima's new under-the hood excitement. These added systems improve the vehicle's fuel economy without sacrificing power. Buit on a unibody frame, the front-wheel-drive Optima utilizes independent front and rear suspension systems. MacPherson struts are used in the front with a multi-link layout in the rear and are joined with coil springs and anti-roll bars (standard equipment on all models) to engage drivers with responsive handling and provide utmost comfort whether the road is smooth or less than ideal.

The rest of the center fascia and floor console receive minor tuning for even more intuitive operation whereas the new barrel-type instrument cluster design adopts a sporty red illumination. Optima continues to offer two seat trims in gray or beige color schemes - cloth (LX), leather (EX) -with black leather trim on SX models, which also features aluminum trim, metal sport pedals and a Supervision meter cluster.

Amidst the host of additional options, Optima still offers an array of standard features. The LX is equipped with air conditioning, power windows and door locks, an AM/FM/CD audio system with six speakers, cloth seat and door trim, a six-way adjustable driver's seat and four-way adjustable front passenger seat as well as 60/40-split folding rear seats. EX models upgrade to a leather-wrapped steering wheel with tilt and telescopic functions, leather seat and door trim, leather-wrapped shift knob, automatic temperature control, an auto dimming rearview mirror featuring Homelink and an eight-way power adjustable driver's seat. Convenience and Premium Packages offer further content upgrades, including a power sunroof and an infinity audio system.

As with the rest of the Kia line-up, the 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with many safety features as standard equipment. This includes six airbags (dual advanced front and front-seat mounted side as well as full-length side curtain), front active headrests, side-impact door beams, height-adjustable front seatbelts with pre-tensioners and force limiters, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) and a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). The Electronic Stability Control (ESC), a Traction Control System (TCS), brake assist and four-wheel anti-lock brakes.

The 2009 Kia Optima is covered by Kia's comprehensive warranty program, which offers unprecedented consumer protection. Included in this program are a 10-year/100,000 mile limited powertrain warranty, a five-year/60,000-mile limited basic warranty and a five-year/100,000 mile anti-perforation warranty. A five-year/60,000-mile roadside assistance plan also is part of the comprehensive vehicle coverage.