Aptera switches to front-wheel drive, delivery date still unknown
Yep, just after posting a story that Aptera seems extremely unlikely to get its first production model shipped before the end of 2009 comes news that essentially seals this fate. Aptera is now saying that all production models will be front-wheel drive, a major change to say the least. Previously, Aptera's preproduction models used a belt-driven rear wheel, leaving the two hoops up front alone to steer the vehicle. No longer, as Aptera offers the following reasons for the switch:
1. Better weight distribution, which, in turn, maximizes stability
2. Improved traction during acceleration and in inclement weather wet conditions
3. More efficiency at higher speeds
4. Increased durability during the life of the vehicle
5. Improved noise insulation
6. Increased rear cargo space (without sacrificing front legroom)
We're not going to spend any time arguing with any of those 6 points, but we're also fully aware that this change will further postpone sales of the 2e well into the future. For what it's worth, an Aptera Forum member named Steve (any guesses as to who that may be?) claims that the decision to switch to FWD was made all the way back in January.
Lamborghini Miura No. 1 found, set for Cali restoration
The chassis for Lamborghini Miura #1 is such a work of art, it'd be a shame to cover it up with that swoopy, classic bodywork. The Dallara-designed masterpiece first met the world in 1965 at the Turin Auto Salon and was apparently stored after that until Marios Kritkos fell in love with it in 1977. Kritkos, who handled the importation of Lamborghini cars for Cyprus, went to Sant'Agata in 1978 and dragged the chassis back to Cyprus. The chassis has recently been "discovered," not that it was ever really lost, and Los-Angeles based Joe Sackey (author of The Lamborghini Miura Bible) and Gary Bobileff (whose website has a sweet Ferrari-themed interface) now have Miura #1 at Gary's shop, where it will get a restoration to an astounding standard. Give us a pair of Snidely Whiplash goggles, and we'd drive that thing every day.
Monday, December 15, 2008
Suzuki Prices the Equator Pickup Truck from $17,985
Suzuki has released pricing information for its Nissan Frontier-based, Equator mid-size pickup truck which will be available in the States in both Extended Cab and Crew Cab body styles with rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive options. Prices start from $17,995 for the Equator Extended Cab and for those of you wondering, the base-price for the Nissan Frontier is $17,460. The most expensive version of the Equator is the Crew Cab RMZ-4 which carries a starting MSRP of $29,325 and offers an optional moto-style bed extender.
The new mid-size pickup truck from Suzuki is offered with two engines, a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 152 horsepower and 171 lb.-ft. of torque and an available 4.0-liter, V6 engine producing 261HP with 281 lb.-ft. of torque. The Equator comes equipped with either a five-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission or five-speed manual gearbox which is available only on four-cylinder models.
The Pace of Life
If you’ve got to get moving, whether with passengers or cargo, we’ve got you covered.
Equinox: Generous room, smart styling, available all-wheel-drive and confident performance continue to make Chevy Equinox one of the standouts of the compact SUV segment.
The Equinox Sport features a lowered suspension, bold 18-in. wheels, a powerful, 264-hp DOHC engine, backed up by a six-speed automatic with manual tap up/tap down control. Equinox Sport also features hydraulic power steering, a tuned exhaust and unique exterior appointments.
Equinox’s standard safety features include OnStar, StabiliTrak electronic stability control system, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS and tire pressure monitoring system.
The five-apssenger Equinox is one of the few compact SUVs equipped with a standard V6 engine. It is powered by GM’s 3.4-litre V6, rated at 185 hp and 210 lb.-ft. of torque. This durable overhead valve engine is coupled to an electronically controlled five-speed automatic.
A special Team Canada edition Equinox celebrating the upcoming Vancouver games, in addition to Equinox LS’s comprehensive roster of features, includes 17-in. bright chrome-clad aluminum wheels, deep-tinted glass behind front windows, premium cloth trim, cruise control, front and rear carpeted floor mats and extended range remote keyless entry.
Uplander: A crossover sport van for those with multifaceted lifestyles, the Uplander delivers the bold styling of an SUV, the passenger room and interior versatility of a van, and the smooth ride of a sedan.
The front-wheel-drive Uplander is offered in regular- and extended-length body styles, and can seat up to seven passengers. The lineup includes LS and LT models, as well as a commercial-use cargo van.
The Chevy Uplander is powered by a sophisticated 3.9-litre V6 that uses variable valve timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency while delivering 240 hp, 240 lb.-ft. of torque; a FlexFuel version that’s capable of running on E85 ethanol is available.
Uplander has a long list of standard comfort and convenience features, including air conditioning, power windows and power door locks, tilt-adjustable steering column, and an AM/FM stereo with CD and MP3 player. All radios (except navigation) are now equipped with an auxiliary jack for iPod/MP3 input. With its standard OnStar system, Uplander includes one year of GM’s Safe and Sound service with Turn-by-Turn Navigation.
StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with Traction Control is now standard on all models.
Innovative and clever storage solutions are found throughout Uplander and with comfortable seating for up to seven, Uplander offers numerous passenger and cargo space configurations.
BMW M-Model Sales More Than 50% Up in the first 11 Months of 2008!
Crisis? What crisis? While most car manufactures around the world are seeing their sales plummet in 2008, BMW's M-Division is flourishing in this harsh economic environment having exceeded the previous year's equivalent figures during the first 11 months of 2008 by over 50 per cent! From January to November 2008, BMW has sold 22,340 M-Model cars worldwide compared to 14,092 vehicles in the same period in 2007. In November 2008 alone some 1,900 BMW M automobiles were delivered around the globe. As long ago as August 2008 the worldwide sales figures of BMW M GmbH reached 16,150 units, thus surpassing last year's total figure of 16,128 units.
"The fact that our dealers were able to supply significantly more vehicles than the average of the last nine months even in such dramatic times for the world economy demonstrates the fascination and attraction which BMW M automobiles exercise on our customers," said Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW M GmbH.
A major contribution to BMW M's runaway success in 2008 has been the introduction of the all-new M3 which is now offered in three body variations (Coupe, Sedan and Convertible). The high-performance sports car sold almost twice as well in its first year of production than its predecessor model did within the same period.
Currently, BMW M offers seven models that include three body types of the M3, the BMW M5 Sedan and Touring as well as the M6 Coupe and M6 Convertible.
Overall, BMW brand sales in 2008 for the first 11 months of the year, are down 3.5% compare to the same period in 2007 to 1,105,112 units.
Mercedes to Unveil Concept BlueZero in Detroit - Previews 2010 B-Class
Mercedes-Benz, or to be exact, German car magazine Autobild, has released a series of sketches previewing the "Concept BlueZero" that will allegedly make its worldwide debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit on January 11. The all-electric concept car is said to give us a first taste of the next generation Mercedes-Benz B-Class that's scheduled to hit dealerships in early 2010. The most anticipated version of the luxury 5-door hatch will be a fuel-cell powered variant which is expected to go on sale during 2010. According to Mercedes-Benz, it will be the first series production model to be offered with such a drivetrain.
The 2010 B-Class Fuel Cell model will be powered by a new generation of fuel-cell drive that is much more compact than other systems while at the same time offering better performance and, according to Mercedes, will be completely suitable for everyday use.
The electric motor used on the prototype B-Class Fuel-Cell develops a maximum output of 136HP and a torque figure of 320 Nm. Merc's engineers claim that the fuel cell model will give better acceleration figures than a B-Class fitted with a standard 2.0-liter petrol engine while consuming the equivalent of just 2.9 liters of fuel (diesel equivalent) per 100 km or 81.1 mpg US.
The Top Ten Most Stolen Vehicles of 2008
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Highway Loss Data Institute recently released the list of the top 10 most stolen vehicles for 2008. SUVs and trucks figured prominently in the list. However, it is interesting to note that the most stolen vehicles are not necessarily the flashier models on the road.
Car robbers tend to target vehicles that can be sold for parts, easily blend in with traffic or are popular in foreign markets where the cars can be disposed off easily. SUVs and trucks also spend more time parked in driveways or out in the street making them more accessible to thieves. To compile this list, the IIHS looked at insurance-claim reports to determine theft-frequency rates.
The 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV topped the most stolen list having the highest theft-claim frequency of any vehicle. In fact, it is 15 times more likely to get stolen than the least-stolen car which is the luxurious Mercades E Class sedan. “The Escalade has been the star of the show with car thieves for the better part of the decade,” says Russ Rader, an IIHS spokesperson. “It has pop-culture appeal, and thieves are attracted to it.”
Along with the E Class, other cars that have low theft-claim frequency reports are the Buick Rainer and the Subaru Forester. Here are the top 10 most stolen cars of 2008:
This is the car of the future
Well, this certainly is different. Usually, I’m on the other side of the table deriding environweenies for their unrealistic prognostications of what a gasoline-free automotive future looks like. Now, I find myself about to defend the practicality and, even more of a surprise to me, the salability of an over-priced, under-powered (quasi) battery-powered car. Surely, it is the end of days. At the very least, we should be on the lookout for locusts.
Said car is Chevrolet’s new Volt and the reason I’m defending it is that one of your esteemed columnists, Peter Foster, flubbed it off most recently as “revolting,” a pun all we autojournalists have been assiduously trying to avoid. Mr. Foster, being out of the loop, obviously didn’t get the memo.
Mr. Foster’s denigration of General Motors’ battery-powered Electric-Extended Range Vehicle (for those not familiar with the designation, the Volt is an electric car with a range of 64 kilometres on battery power alone after which a small gasoline engine kicks in to recharge the batteries, but not, it should be noted, drive the car) was based on two basic points. First, he thought that the Volt
was too expensive at an estimated price range of between $35,000 and $50,000 when it goes on sale in 2011. More damning, however, was his contention that General Motors was fooling us and, worse, itself into thinking that it can actually produce the Volt.
Much of the skepticism, including Mr. Foster’s, surrounding the debate on whether The General can develop the Volt is on the viability of lithium-ion batteries for automotive use with many predicting all manner of thermal catastrophes (that’s fire to you and me). Adding credibility to the argument, and I suspect making brave many of those skeptics, is the recent contention from Honda that lithium-ion batteries are not quite ready for prime time. Indeed, Honda’s recently-unveiled, low-cost hybrid Insight eschews high-tech lithium-ion for the more proven but not nearly as powerful nickel-metal hydride. Surely, General Motors can’t know something that mighty Honda doesn’t?
It just might. The important thing to remember, says Douglas Dauch, the lead engineer in GM’s Battery Systems Lab, is that there are more than 100 types of lithium-ion batteries. General Motors reviewed dozens of potential candidates and settled on two types: lithium-ion manganese spinell and lithium-ion iron-phosphate. Yes, I know it’s all propellor-head gobbly-gook, but the point is that, unless the naysayers have tested exactly those batteries, they are in no position to denigrate their performance.
Indeed, after Dauch finished his battery technology for dummies explanation, he pointed to the two T-shaped casings sitting on the floor beside us. It turns out these were the very first of the Volt’s battery packs to be put through GM’s rigourous long-term durability testing. Having been running 24/7 since April through real-world driving simulations, the batteries have already accumulated the equivalent of 50,000 kilometres on them… without cooling.
Yes, without cooling. Even though all production Volt will have a cooling system for their batteries, these test units had run their entire lifetime with it disconnected. Yet, they purred (OK, so batteries don’t “purr” per se, but you get the automotive analogy) along at a room-temperature 25 degrees Celsius. The packs just down the hallway running with full cooling? Well, they ran but two degrees cooler. That’s why Mr. Dauch just laughs when he reads media reports of the problems that GM’s development team must be undergoing.
“The battery technology is simply not the challenge anymore,” says Dauch with a certain amount of frustration, “Normal engineering crap is what we spend much of our time working on. Are they going to make the connectors in time for production? Can they reduce the number of fasteners needed since fewer parts means greater reliability? These are the kinds of things that worry us.”
And if Mr. Foster is really going to make GM’s inability make these lithium-ion batteries, should he also not pooh-pooh recent product releases by Nissan, Mercedes and Chrsyler. All have recently announced either electric vehicles or hybrids using lithium-ion batteries (Nissan with a manganese oxide chemistry similar to GM’s) as their energy storage. Both Mercedes’ and Nissan’s versions will be in showrooms before the Volt reaches production. Why no question of their abilities to produce similar technology?
Finally, Mr. Foster objects to the Volt’s projected price that educated guesses place squarely in low $40,000 range. And, yes, Mr. Foster is right; this is definitely more than a similarly-sized vehicle with the same equipment would cost if it were powered by traditional gasoline engine. But does Mr. Foster really expect the first-generation of any ground-breaking technology to cost no more than the outgoing? Does he really think that Toyota made a profit on all those firstgen Priuses it blew out the door at US$19,995?
And if the technology is too expensive for anyone to build at a profit, is Mr. Foster really suggesting GM abandon its alternative fuel strategy? Mr. Foster’s voice would be very faint indeed compared to the howls protesting that Detroit should be forced to make alternative-fuel vehicles at any price.
So, yes, General Motors will soon be selling what is, compared with today’s vehicles, a car that’s overpriced for its performance, size and equipment. But what Mr. Foster didn’t tell you is that all auto manufacturers are going to have to put out some sort of over-priced (or profitless), under-equipped, alternative-fuel, “green” vehicle. And after my sojourn to GM’s test labs, I’m convinced that Chevy’s Volt will prove the most useful of the lot.
New BMW Z4 to debut January ‘09?
Rumors about the arrival of a new BMW Z$ in 2009 have been buzzing for months. The rumors might just be true. According to a BMW insider, the automaker might debut a new, redesigned BMW Z4 next month. The new Z4 will offer drivertrain choices including either a naturally apspirated or twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, found in the 328i and 335i, respectively. An M verson with a V8 and a carbon fiber roof is also rumored to be available.
The 2009 BMW z4 is also expected to have new front and rear fascias, a lower roofline and ducktail spoilers as well as stylistic differences between the Z4 coupe and the folding hardtop variety. However, the soft-top Z4 is expected to be dropped from the mode lineup.
Meanwhile, a new Z2 is rumored to be currently in the works with coupe and cabrio variants and equipped with BMWs EfficientDynamics system. The two-door Z2, based on the 1-series, is expected to be powered either by a natrually aspirated or turbocharged 2.0-liter four with a possibe hybrid version using BMW’s eDrive system.
2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Truck 2009 Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra Hybrid Pickup Truck
Canada today announced pricing for the 2-mode hybrid version of the award winning Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 1500 seriescrew cab pickup trucks. With a starting MSRP of $46,725 for 2WD models and $50,875 for the 4WD models, the 2009 Silverado and Sierra hybrid pickups establish an industry-first by achieving an impressive 32-percent improvement in city fuel consumption and a 23-percent improvement in combined fuel consumption, while also delivering the capability expected of a full-size pickup truck.
“For customers who need a full-size truck, including a 2,767 kg towing capacity, but also want significantly improved fuel efficiencym, our hybrid pickup trucks are the clear answer,” said Marc Comeau, vice president of sales, service and marketing for GM of Canada. “GM has held the leadership when it comes to full-size pickup fuel efficiency for many years, but these hybrids take that to whole new levels. There is simply nothing else on the market that can match their combination of efficiency and performance.”
2WD models consume just 9.8L/100km in the city and 9.2L/100km on the highway with a range of more than 800 km, while 4WD models are estimated at 10.5L/100km in the city and 9.8L/100km on the highway with a range of over 750 km. Both trucks use GM’s patented two-mode hybrid system and a 6.0L gas V-8 featuring Active Fuel Management cylinder deactivation technology. Together, they deliver highly efficient performance - including all-electric driving up to 48 km/h, enabling fuel savings to be realized even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer.
Production begins in December of 2008, with delivery to dealers expected in early 2009. All models come with an eight-year/160,000-mile hybrid component warranty.
Well equipped: Silverado and Sierra Hybrid “1SH” models are based on the popular Silverado LT and Sierra SLE trim levels and include equipment options such as the heavy-duty towing package, locking rear differential, EZ Lift tailgate and lock, and 18-inch chrome clad aluminum wheels. Also included are dual zone electronic climate control, head curtain side airbags, XM satellite radio, steering wheel audio controls and Bluetooth phone capability.
Equipment that is specific to the hybrid models includes:
- 6.0-litre V-8 engine (332 hp / 247 kW) with Active Fuel Management
- Low rolling resistance tires
- Hybrid ornamentation
- Soft tonneau cover
Additionally, an up-level (1SJ) hybrid package is available offering features and amenities such as bucket seats, navigation radio, rear seat audio controls, Bose speakers, power adjustable pedals, universal home remote, rear defroster, rear park assist, remote start, fog lights and a hard tonneau cover, available for $7,435 over the base MSRP.
General Motors of Canada (GMCL) is engineering and manufacturing advanced environmental technologies ranging from Active Fuel Management (cylinder deactivation) and hybrid systems to E85 biofuel and fuel cell vehicles - more than any other auto company right here in Canada.¼/p>
A Cobalt to Beat the Pumps … Reviewer Declares Cobalt a Segment Leader
Kingston Whig-Standard by Joe Duarte: I love a challenge. If I’m handed something with the potential to be beneficial on some level, I’m going to do everything in my power to maximize that benefit.
Every time I drive a hybrid, I want to get my fuel economy as low as possible, within the boundaries of sensible driving - in other words, I won’t go driving at 80 km/h on the highway or 40 along a signed 60 road, but I will search out 40 km/h stretches of road in order to maximize running on batteries as long as possible.
A couple weeks back, I had the opportunity to drive a Toyota Prius converted with an auxiliary plug-in battery to further electrical range and, consequently, improve on my own Prius fuel-economy by about 25 percent.
So imagine my delight at taking over the keys to a Cobalt LS XFE (the XFE stands for “Xtra” Fuel Economy and promises a 13 percent reduction in city fuel consumption and eight percent reduction on the highway).
XFE is GM’s newly created designation for improved economy models of cars, pickups and utility vehicles. In Cobalt, the designation includes a higher final gear ratio for the manual transmission and low rolling resistance tires.
But this isn’t a “special edition”; it’s the entry-level Cobalt and it comes pretty basic - roll-up windows, joystick outside-mirror adjustments; manual transmission. The only option on our test vehicle was air-conditioning, which in the name of economy, I kept off the entire time I had the vehicle (and it had very little to do with the average -5 degree temperatures while the car was with me).
Let’s get the typical stuff out of the way quickly - beyond what I consider boring looks, Cobalt is a compact car with compact-like interior dimensions. That means room for four adults is reasonable but not extravagant; entry to the rear seats is challenging but not unmanageable; the trunk is large enough and flat-floored with releases to push down the 60/40 split rear seat-backs; and upholstery seems durable over sufficiently padded cushions.
Power comes from a variable-valve timed 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine that is larger than most would expect from this market. As a result, 155 horsepower are on tap, which makes it more powerful than both the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla 1.8-litre “fours” (140 and 128, respectively), with considerably more torque (150 versus the others’ 128). That means you will feel brisker acceleration than you would with its competitors (especially since they are pretty even in curb weight).
The trade-off is in economy, where the Cobalt’s larger engine saddles the diminutive sedan with fuel economy that is roughly eight percent worse in city driving, though it ties the Civic for best on the highway.
Now you may think to yourself, that’s not too bad considering you do get more power - that’s your choice. Me? I’m in it for the economy - after all, it is advertised as XFE.
So that got me thinking about how well I’ve done in past Cobalts, and I found out I hadn’t driven one in nearly two years (and that was the boy-racer SS coupe), and don’t have my fuel records from back then. I did find a colleague who drove last year’s version of this sedan and averaged 8.9 litres per 100 km, and I averaged 8.6 litres per 100 km in a Civic automatic a year and a half back.
So, it’s by no means outrageous to average 7.8 litres per 100 km in this latest Cobalt. I was hopeful it would be better, given the special designation, but it did come in some 10 percent better than other real-world tests, so I’d have to consider it a success.
And in going over my notes, I can’t really find anything to fault with Cobalt - the looks are blah, but that’s wholly sugjective; as is the observation that the shifter knob looks like a large plastic blac-licorice Tootsie Pop.
And that leads me to conclude that on all fronts, Cobalt is a fine entry-level sedan. Is it a segment leader? I’d have to conclude so, when I combine all the objective and subjective information I’ve gathered.
Nice car!
Saturday, December 13, 2008
Hyundai Elantra Touring
The Hyundai Elantra Touring, with its modern, sleek styling and fun-to-drive qualities, was developed by Hyundai in response to the growing demand for stylish and functional five-door vehicles, sales of which doubled from 2001 to 2006. Five-door vehicle sales are projected to be strong into the next decade. The Hyundai Elantra Touring will also be the first five-door compact to offer standard Electronic Stability Control (ESC), in addition to a host of other class-leading safety technologies. As with all Hyundai vehicles, The Hyundai Elantra Touring was designed and manufactured to meet the most stringent quality standards in the industry, exemplifying Hyundai's quality leadership position worldwide.
Flowing curves and strong character lines highlight the broad stance and long wheelbase of The Hyundai Elantra Touring. The clearly defined, unbroken, rising beltline unifies the vehicle's functional proportions. The effect is an exciting shape that provides a dynamic impression of performance and capability. Elantra Touring has a low coefficient of drag for optimal fuel efficiency at highway speeds and minimal interior noise.
Up front, the pronounced dual air intakes flow smoothly into the hood and A-pillar lines. Sharp projection headlamps, fog lights and available 17-inch alloy wheels complete the modern design.
ROOMY AND REFINED INTERIOR
The long wheelbase and generous width of the Hyundai Elantra Touring, combined with Hyundai's expertise in interior packaging, have produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. Elantra Touring has the most interior volume (passenger volume plus cargo space) of any five-door in its class at 125.5 cubic feet. In fact, Elantra Touring's cargo capacity is 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, more cargo space than many larger wagons and crossovers.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring was conceived from the beginning as a driver's car. The clarity of the instruments, standard B&M Racing sport shifter, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, and a supportive eight-way adjustable driver's seat all contribute to a superior driving experience. For extra clarity, Hyundai's signature blue LCD lighting technology has been used for the central information display and gauge cluster. Two-tone interior trim, with special attention to the upholstery fabrics and materials, delivers a more premium feel. Black and beige are the two interior color choices.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring is the first compact five-door to offer XM Satellite Radio® and USB/iPod® auxiliary inputs as standard equipment. When an iPod or flash drive is connected through the USB port, which is located in the center storage compartment, not only does it play music through the vehicle's six-speaker audio system, but it also charges the iPod and allows the driver to access tracks with the steering wheel audio controls. This system also allows both driver and passengers to easily view song/artist/title information and control the music from the audio head unit rather than only the iPod itself. The center storage compartment location of the USB assures that iPods can be safely stowed out of sight. The roomy and functional interior is also a quiet place to be. Based on internal tests, Elantra Touring has four decibels lower road noise levels than Mazda3 five-door.
INTELLIGENT ERGONOMICS
With its leading-edge designs, Hyundai has proven through the years that vehicles do not need to be large to feel spacious, nor carry a premium price when offering intelligently designed interior cabins. The Hyundai Elantra Touring is just the latest expression of this thoughtful approach, incorporating conveniently located steering wheel audio/cruise controls and column stalks, easy-to-reach heating and air conditioning knobs, as well as conveniently positioned power windows and mirror controls. Even the positioning and precise feel of the automatic gearshift has been optimized. The integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio®/CD/MP3 audio system, map pockets and other storage areas round out the car's conveniently and intelligently designed interior space.
Sporty front seats, designed to complement the athletic driving dynamics of the vehicle, and carefully contoured rear seats, provide long distance comfort and support. Hyundai engineers focused not just on the seats' form and function, but also on the stitching, materials and bolstering. The front driver seat is fully height adjustable and includes lumbar support. The result is seating fit for the spirited driving that Elantra Touring inspires.
IMPRESSIVE PACKAGE EFFICIENCY
The Hyundai Elantra Touring's exterior dimensions (176.2 inches long, 69.5 inches wide and 59.8 inches high) make it a great fit in the compact five-door segment, while its long wheelbase (106.3 inches) means that Hyundai Elantra Touring offers class-leading interior volume. Elantra Touring features outstanding front legroom and front and rear shoulder room. In addition, every Elantra Touring has 60/40 split folding rear seats that fold when needed for added storage, functionality and practicality.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring matches best-in-class passenger volume with best-in-class cargo capacity. There is a useful 24.3 cubic feet of luggage space with rear seats upright and a cavernous 65.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat. As in any Hyundai, the utility and convenience in The Hyundai Elantra Touring has not been overlooked, with a stow-and-go removable luggage cover that stores conveniently out-of-site under the trunk area compartment. An optional restraining net is also offered.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring includes a number of convenient, standard stowage and storage features, including a sunglass holder, two front and two rear cupholders, door bottle holders, dash storage, central console storage, front storage tray, front seatback pockets and a cargo area under-floor storage. For tailgaters, the cargo area also has a power-retained 12-volt outlet, where the vehicle does not have to be turned on, for consumers who desire an outlet to plug in their portable electronic devices.
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Elantra Touring is powered by the same fuel-efficient 2.0-liter, in line four-cylinder found in the Elantra sedan. This sophisticated 16-valve powerplant employs Dual Overhead Camshafts (DOHC) and Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) for a very broad power band, coupled with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. Elantra Touring is certified as an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle (ULEV).
TRANSMITTING THE POWER
Hyundai understands that performance means more than just engine output, which is why transmission choices have been optimized for real driving satisfaction.
An ergonomically located gear shift with a SHIFTRONIC® manual feature controls the Hyundai Elantra Touring's four-speed automatic transmission, delivering confident mode selection and quicker, easier, more precise manual overrides. A unique-in-segment B&M Racing sport shifter delivers smooth, short-throw shift control for the standard five-speed manual transmission.
AGILE STEERING, SUSPENSION AND BRAKING
The Hyundai Elantra Touring offers a dynamic driving experience. A MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension have been fitted to perfectly complement the body structure's high rigidity. Ventilated 11.8-inch front and solid 10.3-inch rear discs with ABS and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) provide excellent stopping power with added handling control.
Elantra Touring delivers high performance steering and adds unique springs, front and rear stabilizer bars and dampers. Elantra Touring features a 24 percent stiffer front spring rate, a 39 percent stiffer rear spring rate, a larger front stabilizer bar (24 mm) and larger rear stabilizer bar (21mm) than the Elantra sedan. Both 16- and 17-inch alloy wheels, with low and ultra-low profile tires, add visual impact and extra grip to the Hyundai Elantra Touring's sporty dynamics. The result is a car that simply demands to be driven.
Hyundai Elantra Touring steering character is another key driver of its sporty driving nature. Hyundai chassis engineers focused on delivering an agile feel, with direct responses to driver inputs. That spirit translates to a fun-to-drive character in everyday driving situations. And all drivers will appreciate Elantra Touring's nimble turning diameter - at 34.2 feet it is better than Rabbit's 35.8 feet and Caliber's 37.2 feet.
UNSURPASSED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES
Like every Hyundai, top-tier safety was a key development goal for the Hyundai Elantra Touring, which is fully equipped to protect driver and passengers. In terms of passive safety, it features dual front, side and curtain airbags, for a total of six protective airbags in the vehicle. The Hyundai Elantra Touring also features active front headrests, seatbelt pretensioners and seatbelt reminders. The combination of side and curtain airbags, which help protect the head and body during side impacts, can reduce fatalities by more than 52 percent, according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Also according to the IIHS, active front head restraints improve rear crash protection.
These passive safety technologies are fully grounded in a state-of-the-art body structure, which includes deformable zones, occupant protection cell and three-way load distribution technology. Further rigidity has been achieved with reinforced A pillars, strengthened bulkhead, front and side members, and strengthened B and C pillars.
The Hyundai Elantra Touring comes standard with Electronic Stability Control, one of the industry's most effective life-saving technologies. ESC compares the driver's intended course with the vehicle's actual response. It then brakes individual front or rear wheels and/or reduces engine power as needed in certain driving circumstances to help correct understeer or oversteer. NHTSA studies show passenger cars equipped with ESC experience 30 percent fewer fatalities in single-vehicle crashes. Santa Fe, Veracruz, Tucson, Sonata, Azera, Elantra SE, Entourage and Genesis are all equipped with standard ESC. Approximately 73 percent of Hyundai vehicles offered in 2008 come equipped with standard ESC - a commitment to this sophisticated and effective automotive safety technology that is unmatched by any other popular automotive brand.
In developing and refining the safety features of the Hyundai Elantra Touring, Hyundai employed advanced design systems and sophisticated computer simulation, combined with intensive component testing. This is a process used in development of all Hyundai vehicles. From drawing board to prototype testing to final product development, Hyundai uses this extensive process to assure that all its vehicles - including the Hyundai Elantra Touring - meet or exceed government safety standards, as well as the expectations of vehicle buyers.
THE GOOD STUFF COMES STANDARD
Elantra Touring builds on Hyundai's reputation for offering loads of standard equipment, offering air conditioning, power windows, heated mirrors, door locks, remote keyless entry with alarm, steering wheel-mounted cruise control and audio controls, eight-way adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support, and plenty of storage compartments. For audiophiles, an integrated 172-watt AM/FM/XM Satellite Radio/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers, USB input and auxiliary input jack are standard. The Premium-Sport package adds a power sunroof with tilt and slide functions, heated front seats and 17-inch alloy wheels with P215/45VR17 tires.
Lexus IS 350
The Lexus IS sedans showcase revised styling and gain enhanced interior function and improved handling for 2009. New suspension and steering tuning improve stability and control, and the Lexus IS 250 model, in both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive models, gets the advanced Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system. Already standard on the Lexus IS 350 model, VDIM integrates all of the car's dynamic-control systems to provide superior handling and traction.
The Lexus IS grille and front bumper cover are revised, as are the rear bumper cover and taillight clusters. New turn signals are now integrated into the exterior mirrors, and the 17-inch and 18-inch alloy wheels feature new designs for 2009. On rear-wheel drive models, the 18-inch wheels can now be equipped with all-season tires.
Inside the Lexus IS Lexus enhanced form and function with a revised instrument panel center cluster. The paddle shifters now function in D mode, and some controls have been changed for improved convenience. The rear seat headrests are now foldable to aid rear visibility. New interior colors include Ecru (replacing Cashmere) and Light Gray (replacing Sterling), both accented by new contrast stitching on the seats, door panels, and console lid.
Among luxury brands, Lexus alone offers a unique choice in the entry-luxury segment: The rear-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive Lexus IS models emphasize the brand's sportier side, and the front-wheel-drive Lexus ES 350 is focused on ultimate comfort.
Engine/Transmission/Drivetrain/Performance
The 2009 Lexus IS line offers three models: The rear-wheel-drive Lexus IS 350, the rear-drive Lexus IS 250 and an all-wheel drive Lexus IS 250. The IS 250's 2.5-liter V6 engine delivers 204 horsepower at 6,400 RPM and 185 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,800 rpm. The Lexus IS 350's 3.5-liter V6 delivers 306 horsepower at 6,400 RPM along with 277 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,800 rpm and can accelerate the car from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Both engines use aluminum cylinder blocks and heads and employ dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), which controls timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts.
A direct-type fuel-injection system provides a cooling effect in the cylinders, enabling the high compression needed to extract maximum energy from the fuel. Aside from its larger displacement, the 3.5-liter V6 differs chiefly in that it augments the direct fuel injection with port fuel injectors. In light- and medium-load conditions, these additional injectors help produce a precise burn, increasing power and efficiency. A dual exhaust system reduces backpressure at higher engine speeds. All 2009 Lexus IS models meet the Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle II (ULEV II) certification
An advanced six-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters is standard on the Lexus IS 350 and the IS 250 all-wheel drive model. The rear-wheel drive IS 250 comes standard with a crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, with the paddle-shift automatic offered as an option.
Chassis/Body/Suspension/Tires/Brakes
The Lexus IS is engineered to provide for a sporty driving experience. Its double-wishbone front suspension features a high-mount upper control arm, and the lower arm uses a large, liquid-filled bushing at the rear to minimize vibration and harshness. The multilink rear suspension emphasizes precise control of geometry in all dynamic conditions, helping make the Lexus IS sport sedans ultra-stable for confident driving. High-strength steel and aluminum suspension components reduce unsprung weight, helping the Lexus IS remain stable on bumpy surfaces and improving ride comfort.
The sophisticated monotube shock-absorber design utilizes multi-leaf linear control valves to optimize damping force, plus internal rebound springs for firmer body control without degrading ride comfort. Available sport suspension with 18-inch wheels further enhances handling response.
The Lexus IS 250's available all-wheel-drive system provides extra traction in diverse driving conditions. A planetary-gear center differential and a wet-type multi-disc clutch control front-to-rear power distribution. The system normally sends 70 percent of available power to the rear wheels to provide the performance advantages of a rear-drive car and will vary the torque-split ratio from 30:70 to 50:50 in response to driving conditions and driver input. The AWD system's electronic-control strategy takes inputs such as steering and throttle angle from driver activity combined with vehicle signals from wheel speed and yaw rate sensors.
Combining input from a variety of sensors, VDIM is designed to anticipate the onset of a vehicle skid or slide and help correct the situation with a combination of braking and throttle control. VDIM integration provides precise management for Electric Power Steering (EPS), Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD), and engine torque (via the electronically controlled throttle). The driver can disengage VSC via the "Trac off" switch, which can be desirable in certain situations.
The Electric Power Steering (EPS) helps to provide linear steering response, precise control and excellent straight-line stability. The vehicle-speed-sensitive system eliminates parasitic loss from a hydraulic pump, and reduces weight and complexity. Both Lexus IS models feature a four-wheel disc brake system, with the Lexus IS 350 equipped with larger ventilated front and rear rotors. In addition, the Lexus IS 350's aluminum four-piston front calipers aid in heat dissipation and stopping power and reduce unsprung weight. Standard all-season performance tires measure 225/45R17 in front and 245/45R17 for the rear (225/45R17 on IS 250 AWD).
Available as a stand-alone option or as part of the Sport Suspension, summer 225/40R18 front tires and 255/40R18 rear tires reward the enthusiast driver with even higher cornering grip. The Lexus IS rear-wheel-drive models offer the sporty "X Package" option that combines sport suspension and five-spoke, 18-inch alloy wheels with a boldly styled front-lip spoiler and sport pedals.
Safety/Security Features
Passive-safety technology in the Lexus IS begins with a reinforced passenger compartment that helps protect the occupants with front- and rear-crush structures. Seatbelt pre-tensioners and force limiters are used for the front and outboard rear seats.
In addition to the dual-front airbags and front seat-mounted side airbags, the Lexus Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) for the Lexus IS includes side-curtain airbags that extend from A-pillar to C-pillar, and a knee airbag for both the driver and the front passenger. Advanced dual-stage front airbags are designed to deploy at one of two speeds, according to impact force. The driver's front airbag also includes an extra low stage designed to deploy based, in part, on the seat's position on its track. The front passenger airbag features two chambers, creating an indentation in the center impact area that helps to disperse the force of the bag.
The optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) can help reduce collision damage. The package includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which uses millimeter-wave radar to measure and help maintain a set distance from a vehicle traveling ahead. PCS relies on the radar sensor to detect obstacles in front of the car, and a PCS computer with sensor inputs from vehicle speed, steering angle and yaw rate is designed to determine whether a collision is unavoidable. In such a situation, PCS preemptively retracts front seat belts and pre-initializes Brake Assist so that increased braking will be applied the instant the driver depresses the pedal.
The available High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlamps with Adaptive Front-lighting System (AFS) helps to illuminate a curve as the driver steers into it. The rear back-up camera, included with the optional navigation system, automatically projects an image of what its lens can detect behind the car onto the navigation screen when the transmission is in reverse gear.
The optional Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) system uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to the car's front and rear bumpers, alerting the driver and showing distance to objects in the multi-information display within the speedometer. When any Lexus IS model is also equipped with the optional navigation system, information on objects detected is shown in greater detail on that system's seven-inch touch screen display.
Luxury/Comfort/Convenience
Standard amenities for the Lexus IS models include 10-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear-seat vents and a pollen filter (plus a smog filter on Lexus IS 350), power moonroof with one-touch open/close and seven open-position settings, manual tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, all power windows with automatic up/down feature and jam protection, and an auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Lexus IS 250 AWD model in addition features standard heated, leather-trimmed seats.
A multi-function switch allows the driver to set an adjustable speed warning and an adjustable RPM shift light in the tachometer. The SmartAccess keyless entry and push-button-start ignition allows the driver to keep the access fob in a pocket or purse. The standard HomeLink® programmable garage door opener also operates home security devices and other systems.
The standard Lexus Premium Audio System features a six-disc, in-dash CD changer, 194 watts of total power and 13 speakers. Automatic Sound Levelizer (ASL) maintains consistent sound levels at varying vehicle speeds. A convenient mini-jack in the center console enables connection of an iPod® or other digital music player.
Luxury Options
A Premium Plus Package that is optional for all Lexus IS models includes wood trim, perforated leather seating trim and heated and ventilated front seats. The comprehensive "Sport" and "Luxury" option packages also include three-position memory for seats, steering wheel and outside mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, power tilt and telescopic steering column and auto-dimming outside mirrors.
Like all Lexus models, the Lexus IS offers its own version of the Mark Levinson® Premium Surround Sound Audio system, which is available as a stand-alone option or in conjunction with the optional DVD touch-screen navigation system. This 14-speaker audio system features discrete 5.1 multi-channel playback with 7.1-channel speaker architecture. Its 10 amplifier channels provide 300 watts total output at 0.1 percent total harmonic distortion (THD). The Mark Levinson system plays conventional CDs and DVDs, plus MP3/WMA-formatted CDs. DVD movies can be viewed on the optional navigation system's color seven-inch touch screen when the parking brake is engaged.
Exterior Design
The Lexus IS sedans show a strong family resemblance to the Lexus GS models while establishing their own distinctively sporty identity. A notably wide stance and long wheelbase, coupled with tightly drawn bodywork, give the Lexus IS an athletic, road-hungry yet sophisticated style. Carefully shaped body contours, a subtle ducktail-curved trunk lid and "air kick" tail lamps contribute to a low 0.28 coefficient of drag (Cd).
The sound of powerful V6 engines will resonate with driving enthusiasts, yet all vehicle occupants will appreciate Lexus' ability to minimize undesirable noises. A highly rigid body structure is the starting point for controlling noise intrusion. Strategically placed noise-suppression materials, including special window and door seals, acoustic windshield glass and asphalt sheeting, take over from there. No detail has been overlooked, down to the sound-absorbing sun visors.
Interior Design
The Lexus IS models' luxurious cabin features intelligently designed displays and controls that are easy to see and use. Bright, clear Optitron gauges and smartly integrated metallic trim, or available Bird's-eye Maple trim, help create an elegant yet sporty environment. Premium interior materials and meticulous attention to detail convey the Lexus identity.
Lexus offers a refreshing approach to designing controls as compared to some competitors that are making controls more complex to learn and distracting to use. One example is the multi-information display located within the speedometer. This versatile feature integrates a trip computer that provides outside temperature, driving range, average fuel consumption, average fuel consumption since refueling (per tank), current fuel consumption, and average speed. The display also includes an oil-maintenance reminder and system warnings, all grouped in one convenient location.
Additional features are added to the multi-information display depending on selected options. When an Lexus IS model is equipped with Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, the display can show a car icon with the selected following distance. When equipped with Intuitive Park Assist (IPA), the display can show a car icon with the location and distance of objects detected near the bumpers.
Subaru Forester is Motor Trend’s Sport Utility of the Year
The Subaru Forester emerged triumphant from a field of thirteen contenders to clinch the 2008 Motor Trend Sport Utility of the Year award. According to Motor Trend editor-in-chief Angus McKenzie, the decision to give the award to the Forester was unanimous. “The Subaru Forester is the SUV for our times”, he added.
The Subaru Forester has had an excellent safety record. It recently received the highest possible ratings in frontal and side impact crash tests by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Aside from five-star frontal and side impact crash-test rating, the 2009 Forester also received a four-star rollover resistance rating. The 2009 model certainly lives up to it with cutting –edge safety technology such as ring reinforcement safety system; front, seat mounted side and three row side-curtain airbags; and ABS.
It also comes with standard Vehicle Dynamics Control (VDC) system, which incorporates stability and traction control systems with a rollover sensor. The Subaru Forester is available with either a 170-hp 2.5-liter boxer engine or a 224-hp turbocharged engine. The 2009 Forester is built on an all-new platform featuring a 3.g-inch longer wheelbase (103.0 inches total) that helps improve ride quality and interior space, particularly rear seat legroom.
Hyundai Introduces Genesis Coupe
Hyundai Motor Co. aims at a higher level of quality and value with the recent release of the Genesis Coupe, touted as the automaker’s ‘halo vehicle’. At the launch in Jeju Island, a popular tourist destination in South Korea, Hyundai took the covers off of the Genesis Coupe for members of the Korean and international media. The new Genesis Coupe comes at the heels of the highly acclaimed Genesis sports sedan introduced earlier this year. With its simple, modern and crisp lines, the Genesis Coupe is the exemplification of Hyundai’s design evolution.
The Genesis Coupe also comes high performance capabilities and front engine rear wheel drive architecture. “The Genesis Coupe is our very first thoroughbred, a true halo car with all the hallmarks of a high performance car,” said Dr. Hyun–Soon Lee, president of the Corporate Research and Development Division. “The Coupe will do exactly what it was designed to do: Provide a thrilling driving experience and attract new customers to Hyundai showrooms and continue the transformation of our brand.”
The Hyundai Genesis Coupe will be powered by ange-topping, all aluminum 310 horsepower (premium fuel), 306 horsepower (regular fuel), DOHC 3.8-liter V6 Lambda RS. The base engine will be the 223 horsepower (premium fuel), 210 horsepower (regular fuel) 2.0-liter turbocharged Theta. Pricing for the 3.8L 310hp Lambda V6 version is expected to start below $30,000, while the 210hp 2.0L turbo four cylinder is expected to be priced even lower. Hyundai hopes to sell 40,000 Genesis Coupes a year: 5,000 in Korea and 35,000 in overseas markets.
First Drive: 2010 Ford Mustang GT
Before we hopped into the updated Mustangs, Ford wanted to give us a refresher on what was being left behind. We were supplied with 2009 models to drive from our hotel to the staging area in Malibu. Anyone who has ever spent time in a 2005-09 Mustang is immediately aware that the weak link is its interior. In a word, it looked and felt cheap. The order of the day for the new 2010 model is refinement. Find out after the jump if Ford has made a Mustang worthy of competing in the now crowded class of modern day muscle cars.
International Car of the Year announces Earth, Wind & Power Awards
Another green car of the year award, huh? In what seems to be an emerging trend, the International Car of the Year jury will add the Earth, Wind & Power (EWP) trophy for both cars and trucks to its current stable of awards. We've just gotten an early look at the models that are eligible for the World Green Car of the Year award, so how do things stack up between the two sets of vehicles vying for votes from their respective jurors? Somewhat surprisingly, not very well at all. There are three finalists for the EWP award: the BMW 335d, Volkswagen Jetta TDI and um, the Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen TDI. All German, all diesel, all the time. Moving along, we have three trucks facing off as well: BMW X5 xDrive35d, Ford Escape Hybrid and the Mercedes-Benz ML320 BlueTEC.
Last year marked the first-ever Earth Angel (what's with the old music references here?) award, which is awarded to the automaker that's making the biggest eco-strides in all of autodom. Last year, the inagural trophy went to GM. That seems unlikely to be repeated this year.
Friday, December 12, 2008
More details on the Nismo-enhanced Nissan 370Z
Last month we showed you a leaked image of the upcoming Nismo enhanced 2009 Nissan 370Z, and now we have official details for the tuner’s ‘S-Tune’ package. While the teaser image we showed you earlier featured the rear of the car with a sizeable fixed rear wing, full bodykit and a new rear diffuser with an integrated brake light, the latest images reveal what the front and side of the Nismo S-Tune 370Z will look like.
Nismo, short for Nissan Motorsport, is the Japanese carmaker’s official in-house tuner and has been designing and building performance parts for various Nissan vehicles for years. Nismo’s most recent performance package was for the already formidable GT-R, which included a whole assortment of performance parts ranging from power mods, to aerodynamic aids, and even interior trim.
The new 370Z will likely feature a similar lineup of Nismo accessories. Some of the confirmed options include a nose piece extension, a front lip spoiler, side skirts, a rear spoiler, rear fender protectors, Nismo floor mats, a stainless steel exhaust system, Nismo LMZ5 19in forged wheels, stiffer suspension, and uprated brakes.
We also have images from a Japanese catalog that shows both a Nismo S-Tune ‘Aero’ and ‘Performance’ kit, as well as what appears to be a pricing list at the end. The pricing list also makes reference to an 'S' version, a 'T' version and an 'ST' version, and the final pricing for the cars appears to fall into the vicinity of ¥3.5 million (approximately $35,600) depending on what spec is chosen.
2009 Honda Insight Hybird: First Official Photos of Production Version
Honda has released the first official picture of the production-ready Insight Hybrid ahead of its worldwide premiere at the Detroit auto show in mid-January 2009. Not much has changed compared to the concept study that was shown in Paris this past October, meaning that if you found the prototype's styling somewhat dull and uninspired, then you're definitely not going to appreciate the further toned down appearance of the production version. Changes include a less sloppy roofline, smoothed out body creases, production headlamps and mirrors, a less aggressively styled front bumper as well as more-down-to-earth front grille and alloy wheel designs.
Underneath the sheetmetal, the five-passenger, five-door Insight will feature a mild hybrid powertrain which is essentially a development of the one found in the current Civic IMA combining an electric motor with a small displacement petrol engine and a CVT gearbox. This means that the Insight won't be able to run solely on electric power.
Honda supports that when the Insight goes on sale worldwide in the spring of 2009, it will be the most affordable hybrid car in the market. Even though has not been announced, Honda officials have said that the car will be priced around $18,000 to $19,000, significantly undercutting its arch rival, the Toyota Prius which begins from around $22,000
The Japanese firm expects to sell of 200,000 units of the Insight per year, with half of the sales coming from the North American markets.
HONDA INSIGHT CONCEPT STUDY
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