Friday, June 12, 2009

The BMW M Series Convertible


The M6 Convertible is an expressive vehicle. Every detail speaks volumes about power, about grace and about the exhilaration of open-top driving. The spacious cabin; the wide, low body; the purposeful stance: each element radiates pure M performance. The characteristic side air vents cite the legendary BMW 507. And inside the stylish cabin, the standard M Sports seats promise uncompromising driving pleasure.

M6 convertible derives power from a standard 5.0-litre V-10 engine, which produces 507bhp @ 7750 rpm and 520 Nm of torque @6100 rpm. This convertible goes from 0-100 km per hour in 4.8 seconds and the engine performs with out any hesitation.

The interior relishes in its sport and powerful appearance with the wheel base of 2,781mm, which is the same as M6 coupe. This convertible gives an elegant and luxurious look with its most striking feature of automatic top that opens quickly and silently so that you can enjoy the experience of open air driving.

The headlights automatically dip if they detect oncoming traffic at night, the light from the reflector on a bicycle ahead, or street lights. Inside the M6 is sober, all black, with black leather seats and a carbon-fiber effect dashboard. The car has the attitude to rule the road, drive it to know it!

BMW has also set an assembly line for its 3 and 5 series. Its sports utility vehicles (SUV) X3 and X5 are imported as CBUs (Completely Built Units) route and sold at around Rs 41 Lakh to Rs 79 Lakh due to high import duty. With the new assembly line, the 3 and 5 series has seen a price drop by almost 40%. Even as it set a target of 1000 units in 2007, BMW sold 1387 units.

This year, BMW is targeting a sale of 2000 units and it has already sold 800 units. "Our expansion of dealerships across cities has fastened our pace of growth in the country," said a spokesperson for BMW. Currently BMW enjoys 9 dealerships in India.

The Author of this article loves writing about cars and has contributed several articles to car portals like http://www.Carazoo.com


Thursday, June 11, 2009

Autoweek Journalist Survives Bouncing Wheel Of Death In Fiesta

This is an interesting read: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20090610/CARNEWS/906109990

Natalie Neff was test driving a Ford Fiesta when a loose wheel from an old Olds nailed her.  She is impressed how well the car stood up to the pounding, and attributes it to the use of high-strength steel.

Wednesday, June 10, 2009

The Hyundai Santro Xing


Santro Xing is a popular hatchback car by Hyundai Motor. The car can be compared to Maruti Zen and Wagan R in many terms. It has Epsilon engine enabled with eRLX technology makes the engine to deliver better performance and mileage. The 1086 cc in-line 4 cylinders engine generates a power of 62 bhp at 5500 rpm and 96 Nm of torque at 4000 rpm.

Santro Xing with 5-speed manual transmission is a fuel efficient car due to its low-end torque and excellent throttle responses. We found the clutch light and easy gear shift. Santro Xing provides an approximate average of 17 on highways and 15 Kms in cities. The car was steady on the road even at 145 speed.

Santro Xing dons a contemporary look with Hyudai's international design. It has new horizontal chrome grille in the front and a large bumper. The Hyundai car sparkling head and tail lamps. Xing's interior provides enough space for five people's comfortable ride. The car has a 3-spoke steering with new instrument cluster. The car's dashboard is given a news look with trendy duals and vents. The car's hand-rest also has be enhanced. Along with useful luggage lamp the car has power controls for the rear windows, a storage tray under the front seats as well.

This Hyundai Santro has comfortable leg , head and elbowroom space. The car's seats have comfortability and the best fabrics. A 4-speed automatic gearbox is present in its GLS AT variant. The car is suitable to tackle the India's bumpy roads with its quality McPherson Strut suspension in the front and 3-link offset coil springs in the rear of the vehicle.

Santro Xing comes in six variants namely XK Non AC, XK, XL, XO, and AT. Its hatch back has been priced around Rs 2,65000-Rs. 4,00,000. The Hyundai Santro Xing comes in real earth, ebony black, noble white, bright silver, charming grey, aqua tint, passion red and husky blue colors.

Besides this Santro Xing Review there are a couple of more related reviews for you at http://www.mithilaconnect.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Himanshu_Shekhar_Jha

The New 2009 Toyota Venza


"The Venza is targeted at an emerging section of the market that prioritizes sleek styling, excellent handling and road manners, combined with a surprising amount of utility," Toyota says. More aggressively styled than your average Toyota, it is aimed at North America and will be sold here exclusively. Some might see it as a Camry wagon. Not Toyota.

Sitting on the Camry's 109.3-in.-wheelbase platform, it is slightly shorter but 3.3 in. wider and 5.5 in. taller. Its 70.1 cu. ft. of EPA-spec cargo volume and 108 cu. ft. of total passenger volume are far greater than the Camry's yet far short of the more utilitarian Highlander's 95.4 and 145.7 cu. ft. Its closest competitor is probably Nissan's stylish Murano.

The exterior begins with a bold face led by a distinctive grille, headlamps and standard fog lamps. The body shape is aerodynamic, with short overhangs, forward-sweeping A-pillars, crisp character lines and a low roofline. The rear is dominated by an angled rear hatch and capped by a functional spoiler and wide wraparound taillamps that connect with the hatch door. Flared fenders, large wheel openings and standard 19-in. wheels and tires (20-in. on V-6 models) provide an aggressive, sure-footed look.

Inside, Venza's standard "Optitron" speedometer and tachometer and multi-color instrument panel can be decorated with available satin mahogany faux wood trim. The standard dual-zone automatic climate system's controls are centrally located on the upper console for easy access. Cargo utility is enhanced by standard fold-down 60/40 rear seats, with one-touch levers and a tonneau cover.

Venza is offered in a single grade with a choice of front-and all-wheel drive and eight option packages--Tow Prep, Security, Convenience, Lighting, Leather, Comfort and two Premium packages--and just four stand-alone options. Those are JBL premium audio, navigation, a power tilt/slide Panoramic Glass Roof with a separate fixed glass panel over the rear seats, and rear-seat DVD entertainment with a nine-inch display, JBL Synthesis surround sound, two wireless headphones, a remote, an auxiliary mini-jack, a 120-volt outlet and RCA mini-jacks. One industry first is a multi-information display with adjustable font size and content, and the nav system is fluent in English, Spanish and French.

The standard six speaker audio system includes a six-disc in-dash CD changer, satellite radio and MP3/WMA playback capability. The optional 13-speaker JBL Synthesis surround sound system adds hands-free Bluetooth wireless phone capability with or without the voice-activated, touch-screen DVD navigation, which adds music streaming and XM NavTraffic.

Among the Venza's key standard features are privacy glass, roof-mounted XM Satellite Radio antenna, a tilt/telescopic steering wheel with integrated audio controls and Hill-Start Assist Control (HAC), which temporarily applies the brakes on uphill slopes to ensure easy starting with no rollback. The adjustable center console has a sliding cover and armrest, three MP3 player holders with wire concealment features and a large storage compartment, and the rear hatch has an easy-close (or available power cinch) function.

Venza is Toyota's first "car" with standard Star Safety System, which includes ABS with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), enhanced Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC) with a cutoff switch and Brake Assist, which supplements braking power in emergencies. Also included are seven airbags--front, front-seat side, roll-sensing side curtains and a driver's knee bag--and front active headrests.

The standard engine, a new 182-hp DOHC 16-valve 2.7-liter four with dual VVT-i (intelligent variable valve timing), delivers more than acceptable performance at light loads and an estimated 21 mpg city and 29 highway with front-wheel drive (FWD), one mpg less with AWD. For towing (up to 3,500 lb.), heavier loading and/or satisfying uphill performance, you might want to opt for the much stronger 268-hp DOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V6, which is good for 19 mpg EPA city and 26 highway with FWD, or a mpg less with AWD. Both drive through a six-speed sequential-shift electronically-controlled automatic transmission that matches gear selection to conditions and gives moderate engine braking on downhill slopes. The available AWD's Active Torque Control optimizes torque distribution between the front and rear wheels.

The Venza's suspension--MacPherson struts with stabilizer bars front and rear--delivers relatively agile handling with surprisingly comfortable ride. The electronic power steering (EPS) minimizes effort while delivering reasonably good feel. In short, it drives pretty much like a taller, roomier Camry. And much better, we believe, than Toyota's bigger, heavier, more truck-like Highlander.

About the Author
Former automotive engineer, Gary Witzenburg is an accomplished publishing professional whose goal is to provide automotive advice you can trust. For over 20 years he has provided quality content to major magazines, newspapers and automotive web sites. To learn more about the 2009 Toyota Venza including detail specifications, safety features, and warranty information along with information on all Toyota models, go to ➾ http://www.automedia.com

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

The Ultimate 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 the Sports Car


The 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 took it long enough to find its way from concept to production.Putting an end to all the speculations,rumors and spy shots from auto news magazines the next generation sports car from GM surfaces.Finally the long wait for the new Corvette ZR1 proves fruitful as it meets the expectations of everyone including auto enthusiasts and buyers.

Power

As anticipated the new Corvette ZR1 is one of the most powerful and expensive sports cars ever produced by General Motors.The 2009 ZR1 is well equipped with latest automotive technology to make the competition harder for the Porsche 911 GT2,the Ferrari 599 and Nissan GT-R.The ZR1's massive 6.2L V8 mated to a 6-speed manual transmission produces 620 horsepower.The close ratio manual gearbox and advanced clutch design also helps in increasing the V8's output.

Performance

GM assured that the 2009 Corvette ZR1 can run at maximum 200mph speed beating its Z06 counterpart as well as other contenders -Ferrari 599 and Lamborghini LP640.The 2009 ZR1 is expected to accelerate 60mph in about 3 seconds closer to Z06's 3.6seconds mark.

Exterior

The ZR1 shares the chassis and platform with Z06 but differs in upgraded front and rear independent suspensions.The extensive use of carbon fiber in the hood,roof panel and front façade ensure excellent finishing and enviable look.A transparent polycarbonate window on the hood makes the ZR1 unique.Its 19-inch alloy wheels not only add style but improve the riding quality as well.The ZR1 sports exclusively designed 12 inches wide Michelin PS2 tires.

Suspension

GM implements the Magnetic Ride Control (MSRC) suspension system in Corvette ZR1.MSRC is an adjustable suspension,which adjusts itself automatically in every millisecond according to driving conditions and vehicle's speed to ensure easymaneuvering of the car.Even though the 2009 Chevy ZR1 is more powerful sports car than its corporate sibling Corvette Z06 it offers smoother ride and easier handling because of MSRC.

Interior

The 2009 Covertte ZR1 comes loaded with a whole new lot of standard luxury feature-simply more than what you have expected.Premium leather upholstery and chic gauges and instrument panels give an opulent feel.A CD player with MP3 capability,satellite radio and auxiliary port adds to the luxury of driving a sports car. Other comfort features include keyless access, power adjusted driver's seat and steering wheel mounted audio controls.

Very little is left for optional features.The premium interior packages include topnotch power adjustable sports seats, head-up display, telescoping steering, electronics navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity as well as additional color choices for leather trimming.

Safety

Safety features are the most important for a car that achieves a top speed of 200mph.The ZR1 is equipped with anti-lock brakes,traction control and electronic stability control system.Though dual front air-bags are provided the auto reviews on the Chevy Corvette ZR1 reveals that the car with such high caliber should have more safety features to pass with distinction.

However,the high profile sports car from Chevrolet comes with an equally high price tag of $100,000.With all its pros and cons,a mark of power and luxury,the 2009 Corvette ZR1 is sure to be the sport car lovers' delight.

About the Author

Edina Jones is a self-published author and automobile expert.She writes auto reviews and speculations on latest models.For more information and auto news,she recommends you to visit: http://www.caranddriver.com/.

The Nissan Titan Review


The Titan of trucks, the Nissan Titan is a full-range pickup truck with spacious interior and plenty leg and cargo room.

The Titan comes in half-ton models, in king cab and crew cab. The Nissan Titan is available in three models - the XE, the SE, and the luxury model LE. The power train on the Nissan Titan is a 5.6 liter V8 connected to a five speed automatic transmission - 305 @ 5200 HP and 385 @ 3400 pound feet torque. The starting price of the Nissan Titan is $37,430.00 and is available in 4 x 2 or 4 x 4 wheel drive.

The roomy cabin, utility, handling and overall performance has won the Nissan Titan the winner in Edmund's Editor's Most Wanted Awards in the category of full size pickup.

For the blue color workers, the Nissan Titan comes with a large trunk bed that is perfect for any size hauling. Though the Nissan Titan has the same look as the Pathfinder SUV from the a far, it's massive back exterior in the back makes a big difference. The Nissan Titan comes with a large bed that is perfect for hauling.

Safety:
The Titan earned the highest possible result, "Good" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for front impact.

Reliability:
The reliability is worse than average for the Titan's two wheel-drive models.

With its overall performance, the Nissan Titan stays on top among the largest and most powerful trucks in the world today. If you are in need of a truck to help your out on a number of things, there is no better option than the Nissan Titan. It is a truck that everyone should be considering in any given market.
The Good: With the new sleek look and its half ton body, Nissan Titan's presence is hard to ignore.

The Bad: Has enough power but lacked the power-train options (like a V-6) or a single cab option to save gas.

Find more Nissan Vehicle Reviews at Atlanta Nissan Atlanta New, Used Nissan Auto Dealer | Online Car Buying Guide

Sunday, June 7, 2009

Tata Nano In The U.S.?

According to Automotive News, Tata says that it could bring the Nano to the U.S. as soon as 2011 or 2012. However, you can bet your bottom rupee that it won't cost $2000, won't weigh 1300lb, and probably won't get 61mpg.

Before Tata can sell the thing in the U.S., it must be fitted with "2.5mph" bumpers front and rear.
It will need ABS and stability control.
It will need front and side airbags.
It will need front, rear, and side impact crash structures so it will get a decent score on NHTSA's crash tests.
It will need properly formulated catalytic converters to meet tough emissions standards.
It will need an automatic transmission, since we Americans are forgetting how to shift our own gears.

When these and perhaps other features I have not thought about have been added, it will likely cost more than the $6000 or so that the Tata Europe is expected to cost.

Suppose it comes in at an industry leading price of $7,500. That's great for a new car, but in 2012 you could probably get a nice used compact or mid-sized car of the 2007-2009 vintage for that kind of money. Nothing exciting, but a solid reliable ride. With amenities such as power locks and windows, decent radios, an opening trunk, dual wipers, fold down seats, and so on.