The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan

The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan is a 'van in compressed form', built on the similar platform as that of Town & Country of Chrysler. The Dodge Grand Caravan is provided in 3 V6 engines. SXT versions have a standard 3.8-liter that gives 197-hp as well as an optional 4.0 V6 engine that makes 251-hp.

Similarly, SEs uses a 3.3-liter engine makes 175-hp with a 4-speed automatic transmission. A 6-speed automatic transmission is available on both 4.0- and 3.8-liter engine. It has a sole-length body style of Grand Caravan in SXT and SE trim levels.

The 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan is manufacturing with seating arrangements sufficient for seven members. A standard flexible bench seat is available with it including a folding seat in third row. The standard buckets in 2nd row are coming with Stow 'n Go system of Dodge. The space for storage is increased by the risible seats. An optional Flexible Seating Group of SXT includes Swivel 'n Go seating of Chrysler.

The Swivel 'n Go system allows the buckets in second row to revolve 180 degrees and turn backwards. A detachable table is including in the seating arrangement that locates flanked by second and third rows. For more convince, the revolving chairs can be detached. A Uconnect multimedia suite of Chrysler that includes a handy cell phone link, a hard drive with 30-gigabyte of memory for the purpose of saving picture files and digital music, and a navigation system as well. The models in SXT version have a 4.0-liter V6 engine includes a power rare gate, heated first and second row seats, leather upholstery, and a sport suspension. The traditional features include airbags, antiskid system, traction control, and ABS.

You may also want to know more about the 2010 Grand Caravan and check out the latest Grand Caravan reviews, pictures as well as specs.

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The 2010 Dodge Dakota

The 2010 Dodge Dakota is a compact pickup, which offers almost full-size truck capability and power. It is designed with latest styling based on standard work trucks, but with a slimmer body, and sleek design. As a compact truck, the 2010 Dodge Dakota arrives in two exterior styles: crew and extended cab. For the new Dakota, Dodge provides a conventional cab pattern. It is also a perfect mid-size truck that is liked by many consumers. It is neither too large nor too small, and priced appropriately too, making it a hot choice.

The 2010 Dakota comes with option of either 4.7-liter V8 or 3.7-liter V6 engines, and five- or four-speed automatic transmissions respectively. Both body styled versions comes with a four-wheel drive, and four trims. The 3.7-liter V6 engine generates 210 horsepower, whereas the E85-compatible 4.7-liter V8 engine gives 302 horsepower. Rear-wheel anti-lock brakes and Front airbags are conventional, while four-wheel anti-lock brakes and side-curtain airbags are optional.

The entertainment features included in the new Dakota are Alpine speaker system for amazing audio playback, satellite radio, and an infotainment system along with navigation system and also 30-GB hard drive. Uconnect wireless connectivity and a remote start system are also on the offer too.

The 2010 Dodge Dakota carries the similar angular look with the bulkier appearance as that of the 2008. Humble on the exterior, the latest generation Dakota is persistently Spartan inside along with a bunch of black plastic items such as eighties' vintage green-LCD audio display, white-face gauges, climate-control controls, and more.

You may also want to know more about the 2010 Dodge Dakota and check out the latest Dodge Dakota reviews, pictures as well as specs.

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The 2010 Hyundai Azera

When you consider the high-quality interior materials, solid overall construction, impressive design, plethora of safety amenities, high fuel economy and powerhouse performance, the 2010 Azera definitely turns out to be a true premium cohesive package that simply goes unrivalled, especially keeping its affordable price tag in mind.

The Azera GLS is powered by a 3.3-liter V6 that produces 234 horsepower and 226 pound-feet of torque. A 3.8-liter V6 engine powers the Azera Limited, producing 263 hp of output, and 257 lb-ft of torque.

All the current generation Azeras feature a five-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive mechanism. What's more, the acceleration with the 3.8-liter V6 is brisk, and the 2010 Azera reaches 60 mph in 7.2 seconds (stats as per track testing records).

This vehicle feels pretty roomy on the move, and even at higher speeds it is extremely quiet. Hyundai Azera also boasts of high interior volume and a bigger trunk than many other rival full-size luxury sedans. Like all Hyundai vehicles, the Azera comes with impressive warranty coverage.

The 2010 Azera will not only carry that oomph, but also rock solid performance, packed in an attractive design, along with necessary features. The standard safety features will remain more or less the same as that of the 2009 Azera, and the new components installed in the vehicle further add to the reliability and safety capabilities of this impressive sedan.

2010 Hyundai Azera is surely going to be one of the top performers in its segment, but we will have to wait and watch what kind of fuel economy this sedan actually succeeds to deliver, when it hits the roads throughout the globe; fingers crossed for 20MPG+

You may also want to know more about the 2010 Hyundai Azera and check out the latest Hyundai Azera Reviews, pictures as well as specs

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

The Rolls-Royce 200EX

The luxury car legend that is Rolls-Royce has presented us with yet another exotic beauty to add to their collection-the 200EX. Reviews are in for the new Rolls-Royce, and we are adding to them.

The 200EX stems from the experimental prototypes that the company created during the pre-war era, albeit more modern. The official debut of the Rolls 200EX is scheduled for the Geneva Motor Show next month, with the production model expected to emerge at the Frankfurt Motor Show later in the year.

The interior is impressive, as one would expect from a Rolls. Luxury amenities come standard in this model, including frosted lamps, violin key switchgear, chrome door handles and an ergonomic roller-ball controller for the systems. The interior of a luxury car is equally important to the exterior, now let's get to that.

The 200EX is unmistakably a Rolls-Royce, boasting design cues derived from the Phantom and the Drophead Coupe. The new member to the Rolls family is more compact than its predecessors, measuring in at 212.6 inches long, 83 inches wide and 61 inches tall. This new size option should help the luxury brand in its marketing endeavors, enabling it to reach new buyers with daintier preferences.

The wheelbase is 129.7 inches, and the 200EX boasts beautiful seven-spoke, 20-inch wheels. Exact engine specs should be available by the Frankfurt Motor Show, as they are still in deliberations we assume. Rumor has it that the Rolls 200EX will be powered by an all-new V12 engine. It certainly seems to be following the BMW 7 Series platform.

The new Rolls-Royce 200EX proves yet again that they are the standard in the luxury motoring realm. Further detail will emerge as we get closer to the official release. For more information on Rolls-Royce rentals and more, follow link to our luxury blog and luxury rental cars.

About the Author

Ryan Safady operates a luxury rental company across the United States specializing in exotic rental cars and luxury rental properties-Imagine Lifestyles. Imagine Lifestyles strives to be a source for all that is luxury in South Florida, New York, Chicago and Los Angeles, providing relevant infhttp://www.amazon.com/ormation and tips to fans and clients.

2010 Dodge Challenger SRT8

2010 Dodge Challenger Pictures

The Land Rover is British SUV For the World

Between 1989 and 1998, the Land Rover Discovery 1 was the British Rover Group's answer to the emerging and later heated SUV competition that has become a phenomenon of sorts in the automobile history as the 20th century ended. Starting with the Jeep Cherokee introduced in 1984, the market for all-terrain 4X4 utility vehicles never saw any let-up. The Land Rover didn't fail to notice the signs as the name was synonymous to what an all-weather all-terrain 4X4 utility vehicle is about, eversince it started the business in 1948.

But it was more than that. It wasn't enough to have rugged manly attributes of a utility off-roader, but it must have the luxurious creature comforts that the daily commuter cannot live without on a daily city commute. That was what SUVs are about.

The Land Rover SUV Answer

The familiar Land Rover we see on post war pop culture media ended with the Land Rover Series III in 1985. That was about the time when the SUV started making inroads. The Rover Group took note and had embarked on enhancing its Series III with the pre-Defender line of all-terrain 4X4 utility vehicles that still harked back to its dated image with a cursory node to the luxury aspect of SUVs with optional accessories to make their products achieve SUV appeal. But that wasn't enough. Hence you have the new Discovery and later the Defender line to take care of the wider budget-conscious markets where its Range Rover had a more upscale high end market to target.

A Cheaper Range Rover by Design

The Discovery 1 was first unveiled in the UK markets in 1989 with a 3-door model. The larger 5-door variant appeared the following year. At the same time, the Japanese counterpart was marketed by its partner Honda as the Honda Crossroad in the Japanese markets for a good 10 years ending in 1999, 5 years after losing the partnership when BMW bought the Rover Group in 1994. As a cheaper shadow of the Range Rover, the Discovery was in fact a Range Rover in sheep clothing, though not necessarily shabby clothing. It had the interior structure of Range Rover with all the interior appointments left out from a Range Rover mock-up that eventually gave the Discovery its SUV standing in the eyes of the markets.

It even had some design element like a unique sunglass holder right at the center of the steering wheel that won a British Design Award in 1999. Some functional designs like its instrumentation and switchgear were borrowed from the Montego and Maestro Rover series, including headlamps from the Freight Rover and the taillights from its Maestro van. Under the hood, the Discovery 1 took off with two engine options - a 2.5 liter Tdi diesel or the 3.5 liter V8 petrol engine. In 1994 it was introduced in the US modified to comply with the strict US motor vehicle requirements. Improvements meant to comply with newer and stricter EU road safety standards were added like a Bosch electronic emissions control, a stronger R380 gearbox, larger headlights, a second set of taillights on the rear bumper and a more comfortable and safer ride.

Other improvements were done to comply with newer European road safety standards. A more powerful 4.0L V8 from the Range Rover SE model was used for 1996 models and onwards with a few enhancements like a larger, cross-bolted main bearings, revised intake, improved pistons and the GEMS distributorless engine management system. The Land Rover Discovery 1 gave way to the second Discovery 2 lines in 1998.

McDonald Landrover is a good place to look for cheap Land Rover Discovery 1 Accessories. They are also a good place to find out about Landrover Discovery 1 Servicing. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Simon_Drew

2010 Lexus ES 350

The entry-luxury Lexus ES 350 is a comfortable, compliant sedan that boasts the right amount of luxury, performance, safety and size without being either garish or boring—and without breaking the bank.

For 2010, the ES 350 gets a fresh face: new headlamps, grille, grille surround and front bumper with integrated fog lamps flanking a revised lower intake, plus redesigned tail lamps, chrome body side moldings, and new turn signals integrated into the outside mirrors. Also a slew of new features, including Lexus Enform and Safety Connect, a new security and convenience telematics suite similar to GM's ubiquitous OnStar system.

The only available powertrain is Lexus' 272-hp, DOHC, 24-valve 3.5-liter aluminum V6, with efficiency enhancing Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), coupled to a 6-speed Electronically Controlled Transmission with intelligence (ECT-i). This super-smooth automatic provides quick kick-down response and sequential manual shifting for those of us who sometimes like to manage our own shift timing.

As expected in a midsize luxo-sedan, the interior is rich and feature-filled, with average space for the class: plenty of room up front for the driver and primary passenger and reasonable real estate for two, or even three, adults in back. Also as expected is Lexus-level craftsmanship, enhanced for 2010 with standard leather-trimmed seating, bright Optitron gauges, premium wood, polished metal and leather accents. The three-spoke wood and leather steering wheel with handy audio, trip computer and information display controls is especially nice, as is the (available) large, easy to use color navigation touch screen.

Also standard are SmartAccess keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, a power moonroof, 10-way power front seats (with driver-seat memory), power tilt/telescope steering wheel adjustment, rain-sensing wipers, heated outside mirrors, an illuminated entry system with exterior and interior puddle lamps and even illuminated front cup holders. The standard audio system has a six-disc CD changer, automatic sound leveling, an integrated satellite radio receiver (with a complimentary 90-day trial subscription) plus iPod/USB connectivity (in the console), Bluetooth hands-free phone capability and music streaming.

The available Ultra-Luxury Package includes a panorama glass roof, perforated "semi-aniline" leather seating, a power rear sunshade, front passenger seat memory, HID Active Front Lighting (AFS) that follows the steering, that beautiful wood- and leather-trimmed steering wheel and shift knob, and exclusive "liquid graphite-finish" alloy wheels. The long list of stand-alone options includes the HID AFS, heated and ventilated front seats and Intuitive Park Assist (IPA) that uses ultrasonic sensors to detect objects close to either bumper. It alerts the driver and shows distances to objects in the multi-information display.

The optional touch-screen nav system uses "Voice Command" casual-language voice recognition, which comprehends conversational commands for control of audio, climate, and navigation. It also comes with a rear back-up camera, integrates control of personalized settings and has Bluetooth phonebook download. An optional 10-channel, 300-watt, 14-speaker Mark Levinson surround-sound audio system is available with navigation, and DVD movies can be viewed on the nav screen when the car is in park and the parking brake is engaged.

Also new are available-by-subscription Lexus Enform and Safety Connect. Safety Connect, available on any ES 350 with or without navigation, offers four safety and security features: Automatic Collision Notification, Stolen Vehicle Location, Emergency Assistance (SOS) and Enhanced Roadside Assistance, which adds GPS data to Lexus' roadside service. Lexus Enform, available on nav-equipped vehicles, adds Destination Assist and eDestination.

Destination Assist agents, available 24/7 via on-board cellular equipment, can help find an address, a specific business or type of business (gas station, theater, restaurant) and send coordinates to the nav system for routing. With eDestination, you can save and sort destinations online and send them to your car for download. Lexus Enform also offers subscriptions to XM NavTraffic, XM NavWeather and XM Sports and Stocks.

Standard Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control integrates Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA). A new VSC cut-off switch is handy if you're trying to rock the car out of deep snow, mud or sand.

The 10-airbag Supplemental Restraint System includes advanced front and front seat-mounted side bags, rear seat-mounted side bags, full-length side-curtain bags and driver and front passenger knee bags. An optional Pre-Collision System (PCS) includes Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, which maintains a pre-set distance from vehicles ahead. If the PCS senses an impending collision, it pre-initializes Brake Assist, tightens the front seat belts, and Active Braking will automatically apply the brakes (up to 0.3 g) if the driver fails to react.

autoMedia.com, together with their expert automotive journalists, provides automotive advice you can trust. Original auto reviews and road tests provide accurate and entertaining information to car shoppers and auto enthusiasts. Enjoy more of their popular reviews and get additional information on the 2010 Lexus ES 350 along with details on all Lexus Models.

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The Jaguar E-Type

In the past, Jaguar high class automobiles from Britain had small-sized and active features and high-performance were favorable. Their appearance looked sedan and suited the passengers who liked to get anywhere in a group. They believed that there were plenty of lothario millionaires, and if they were to supply a sport-car model, they might have marketed quite well. At least, Jaguar had built its good reputation from the racing vehicles for a very long time, particularly Le Mans twenty-four hours.

A lot of folk announced that Jaguar's sport series which started to be known well and were affordable could be XK series. XK 120 in the year 1948, followed up by XK 140 in 1955, and became XK 150 in 1957. They used quite modern engines that their competitors had not known. Modernization, streamline that made a massive positive result on sport automobiles drivers, curved doors, and roadsters were the genuine style of sport cars.

Jaguar made its reputation in the Le Mans race course by a car that had been showed in 1954, D-Type, which was 3.4liters, 245 h.p... The primary production was considered very fast. Moreover, it was empowered by making it 270 h.p. For racing, and that made it three-years-in-a-row champion in 1955-1957. There would not be anyone that would not wish the dignity of Le Mans' championship sport automobiles which later was extended to 3.8liters, 306 horsepower. It competed in US and made so big result on sport autos guru that made a newer model to drive in a street.

The manufacturer made a decision to make them sport series, and not involved with standard vehicles except the engines and systems used together in order to reduce the price of production., E-Type Jaguar was influenced by XK series and D-Type. It was officially debuted in 1961, taking over XK 150, and finishing the new full sport style, which was the long front and short end according to the classic style sport cars.

The appearance of E-Type is brilliant like Italian sport cars. At the start, it had been decided to name as XK-E, but at last was E-Type, which looked more O.K and newer than old XK series that had been used for many models. It had been decided to be 3.8liters, twin cam, then later on extended to be 4.2liters to make it right for the dimensions of the vehicles. The 3.8 liters one had been at last stopped, until 1971 it was given a new 5.3liters, V12 engine to be an alternative choice for clients who had an interest in pretty gigantic block. The 4.2liters one's production was cancelled in 1974.

If you would like to have this model, you might need to consider if you're a millionaire or not because this kind of classic cars cannot be found at any car dealers. If you would really want it, you check it out from a catalogue of vehicle auctioning company. You might be that lucky that someone would sell it.

If you can have any car in the world, what would it be? Visit thesupercars.org for information and specs on the greatest cars in the world, also take a look at Jaguar-S type auctions.

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

The Maruti 800

One of India's most successful cars is Maruti 800 would become a part of history coming April. Maruti Suzuki chairman R C Bhargava announced, " Maruti 800 is not compliant with BS IV norms and we don't have any intentions of making it complaint with BS IV." Following this announcement it is clear that the car's partial phase-out would begin in April 2010 and the company would stop selling the car in 13 major cities including Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, Ahmedabad, Agra and Surat.

The new government guidelines, beginning April 2010, state that car makers would be allowed to sell only Euro IV compliant vehicles in the four metros and nine other cities. While the rest of the country would move from the Euro III to Euro IV norms in 2015-16. RC Bhargava added that the company would continue selling Maruti 800 in cities that don't have to comply to BS-IV norms. Bhargava also said that the company has no plans to introduce a new model at Maruti 800's price point, which sells four variants priced between 185,715 rupees ($4011) and 219,587 rupees (ex-showroom New Delhi).

Apart from this the other reason behind Maruti's refusal to upgrade 800 to BS-IV norms is that the sales of the model have gone down by 37 per cent and Maruti was able to sell only about 27088 cars in the 10 months ending in January 2010. With the phase out of Maruti 800 becoming a certainty the number of prospective Tata Nano, Hyundai Santro and Chevrolet Spark buyers might just go up a little.

About the Author

Keep yourself updated for Maruti 800, Maruti 800 Pictures and all other new cars at CarDekho.com

The Ford Figo launch this March

Ford Figo is making a lot of noise now that its trial production is over successfully. It is being reported that Tamil Nadu's chief minister M Karunanidhi would inaugurate Ford's Chennai plant on February 5. This is good news for all the people waiting eagerly for Ford's new baby - Figo.

Ford was being missed at the 2010 Auto Expo but the commercial launch of Figo, which is Ford India's brand new semi-compact car, would make up for that. Come March and customers would be able to lay their hands on this compact beauty. Ford Figo would be launched in both petrol and diesel engine options.

The car's 1.2L Rocam petrol engine, also known as Duratec, is capable of producing 70bhp of peak power at 6250rpm and a maximum torque of 104Nm at 4000rpm. While the 1.4L diesel engine, known as Duratorq, produces 68bhp of peak power at 4000rpm and 160Nm of peak torque at 2000rpm. Ford has been claiming that the all new Ford Figo has an array of advanced third generation safety features that include dual front airbags, ABS (Antilock Brake System) with EBD (Electronic Brake-Force Distribution), belt tensioners and belt force limiters, seatbelt warning indicator, door-ajar warning and many more such features that are sure to make Figo a car to reckon with.

There would be three variants of Ford Figo available in the market - base, mid and high end (called platinum) in seven colours namely diamond white, panther black, moon dust silver, chille, sea grey, squeeze and colored red. Speculations are on about the price of the car which is expected to be between the Rs 3.5 - 4.5 lakh bracket. But above all are the promises for fuel efficiency and performance. It won't be too long before the people would get to try this new car and it is only then that these claims would be put to real test.

About the Author

Keep yourself updated for Ford Figo, Ford Figo Pictures and all other new cars at CarDekho.com

Best, Cheapest Cars For Sale

For all those who have a great passion towards cars but thinks that owning the world's best car always requires a good amount of money and are too expensive, its time to change your perception. Today the auto industry in Australia is witnessing a next revolution. If we carefully look at the current scenario then we may find that in the last few years the auto industry in Australia has witnessed the introduction of some of the best car models that has world-class features and available at economical prices. In fact, today there are many auto dealers who are offering and selling some of the best cars available in the auto market. Starting from sports sedans to utility vehicles, in next few months' car lovers can expect something more in order to suit every taste and price range. So in case you are really looking to purchase a car this year, here are some of the best known models that are available and can be considered as best options:

FORD FG FALCON - This car model can be the best option if you are looking forward to have a stylish car at a great price. Bigger and more efficient and with more auto gadgetry than ever before, this new model of Ford Falcon can make a first impression last throughout a lifetime. Stretch the legs and there's more room, flick the wheel and there is an improved response. The seats are cloth-trimmed. And, adding to this, it has safety features such as pre-tensioned seatbelts, dual stage front airbags and side airbags are available. Entertainment has been taken care of along with the excellent interior that centres with 100 watt audio system and LCD screen. Every facet of car is much more improved and balanced. No doubt, its appearance and performance is definitely a subject on its own. Owning this car can be a real experience of driving a sedan at a very economical price.

TOYOTA HILUX - The model that was once considered and suited only for tradesmen is now one of the most preferred passenger car models. Greater space and comfort, especially in the back seat along with smooth and powerful 4.0 V6 are few features that makes it more popular among car lovers who love to own dynamic looking cars at feasible prices. In addition, today this model is available in 14 4x2 models, 16 4x4 models, three cabin styles, three equipment grades (Work mate, SR and SR5) and offers a choice of three engines - 2.7-litre, 4-cylinder petrol; 4.0-litre V6 petrol or 3.0-litre turbo-diesel. It is reasonably priced and there are only few other models that can meet the features and performance of Toyota Hilux.

NISSAN 300ZX - This is another cheap car that actually enjoys some of the best engineering technologies. Debuting in the year 1990, the 300ZX car model from Nissan is the fastest and best-handling Z to date. Today, this model is available with two motors, the first being a 3.0L 6 cylinder with 222 hp and the second a 3.0L Twin Turbo 6 cylinder with 300 hp. If we talk in terms of its look and performance then it is still flawless and there can be no comparison. In every way, the 300ZX is still capable of getting the head turn every where it goes. It boasts a powerful light-weight 60° twin-turbo 24-valve V6 engine, and so capable of reaching 155 mph and 0-100 km/h in around 5.6 seconds. It even features excellent exterior styling, partially retractable headlights and "droop snoot" bonnet line that has improved the aerodynamics for better handling, and can let you enjoy a quiet ride too.

HYUNDAI LANTRA - If you are looking for a car that can give you value for money then Hyundai Lantra could be the most feasible option. The wedgy shape is quite desirable, too clean & smart and very modern. In size, the car lies somewhere between a Ford Focus and a Vauxhall Vectra and could realistically be pitched against cars in either category. Adding to this, in relation to the performance, particularly from the free revving 1.8, this model is willing and reasonably economical. Apart from this, interior space in the rear is better than you might be expecting after a glance at the exterior dimensions. No doubt, it could be the best alternative.

Today it is not that difficult to get the best car for your money. The point that you need to take care is you must perform a good research and compare the features of the car in order to get the best deals. Owning and driving a car actually matters, and so it is always better to make a selection considering the features and price factor.

Automarket.com.au provides widest range of cheap cars for sale of different makes and models. Best portal to buy a car or sell a car in Australia. With thousands of car dealers advertising through this website you get a wide range of used and new cars for sale.

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

The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

With skyrocketing fuel costs, fuel efficiency is an important aspect of any new vehicle. Many sports utility vehicles offer comfort, hauling capability, and size, but are poor on fuel economy.

The 2010 Jeep Grande Cherokee is ranked number 15 out of 27 when compared against other affordable mid-size sports utility vehicles. The new 2010 model is equipped with an exhaust- gas recirculation valve that improves fuel efficiency.

Although the Cherokee has been awarded with numerous accolades, fuel efficiency is somewhat lower than other mid-size SUVS. However, when compared to other off- road only vehicles, the Jeep Grand Cherokee is slightly better than average and even ranks in the category of good.

Although fuel economy does fluctuate based on driver variations as well as driving conditions, one can expect to get about 15 to 16 miles to the gallon when driving in the city and about 20 to 21 miles per gallon highway. These averages can differ when the car is driven harder or at higher speeds than usual. This is comparable, but less than other affordable mid -size SUVs in its class that are not off-roading cars.

On the other hand, when compared to other off-roading vehicles, the Jeep ranks slightly higher than the popular Ford Explorer, Nissan Pathfinder and the Chevy Trailblazer. In addition, the Jeep offers a better ride as well as handling.

The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee offers excellent handling, comfort, and luxury. Although fuel efficiency is not poor, it is lower than most sports utility vehicles. However, if you are searching for an off-road only truck, the Jeep Cherokee does offer better fuel economy that most of its reputable counterparts.

Ronnie Tanner is a contributing writer at http://www.swengines.com He writes about selecting used engines and choosing this as an alternative to costly car purchases.

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

BMW Z4 Against Porsche Cayman?

Among the compact sports cars, the BMW Z4, Porsche Cayman and Porsche Boxster stand out. But which is you? And why did BMW and Porsche wait so long before making the coupes? There is no Boxster coupe, but the Cayman is virtually the same - but uprated.

It might appear peculiar the two German companies, well-known for high-performance and sporty vehicles, waited to make an announcement about their coupes at the same time. The answer lies in why they introduced the roadsters in the first place.

Porsche wanted a new, smaller model to increase its market coverage. Not everyone loves the 911, and not everyone wants a coupe. So it made sense to select the mid-engine layout - the 911 is rear-engined - and the better balance that gives in designing the Boxster. At the same time, the addition of an open-top racer would also increase sales. And both tricks worked.

But what about BMW? Well, BMW wished to build autos in the United States, and did not want to build the same autos it built in Germany as that would increase costs. So it decided to build a racer for the US market, although it would be marketed elsewhere.

At that time there was more potential volume for a boulevard cruiser sort of two-seater than an out-and-out sports car in the United States, so the BMW Z3 was born. It was a rather tall car for a sports auto, and though a hardtop was offered, it looked peculiar, making the car look even taller than it was.

Z4 more sporty than Z3

The BMW Z3 did not actually catch on in Europe, so the Z4 was designed as a more sporty automobile than the Z3, and with its 3-liter engine which develops 265 bhp, is a good match in performance for the Porsche Boxster. Meanwhile, Porsche made a decision to fill out its range with an additional model, to be priced between the Boxster and the 911. In reality, the Cayman is based on the Boxster, but has more sporty suspension, and has a larger engine. Now, though you can get a Cayman with a 2.7 liter engine as well as the 3.4 litre job. The Boxster gets 2.7 and 3.2 liters.

Because Porsche makes flat-six engines, it can easily produce engines of different capacities from 2.7 to 3.8 liters, and many parts are shared by all of them.

If you are looking for a sporty automobile, then you will want to look at the Z4 3-liter, which produces 265 bhp, and reaches 60 mph in 5.5 seconds, a time matched by the Boxster 3.2. The Cayman is a fragment faster, getting to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds. Mind, if you need maximum performance from these vehicles, you can get the BMW Z4 M, with over three hundred bhp on tap.

Choosing between Z4 and Cayman

But when it comes to the choice between the Z4 and Cayman coupes,you will be influenced by which one looks better. Though the Z4 looks miles better than the Z3 it does have some quirky lines, which don't appeal to everybody, and the coupe is no better.

The Cayman has the customarily slick Porsche lines, with a long tail and built-in spoiler which looks good. On the road performance is not much different, and both have super engines and gearboxes, but they don't do things in quite the same way. The Cayman is a superbly balanced vehicle that may be driven fast with confidence, but if you need to hang the tail out, the Z4 might be more to your liking.

Both are great sports automobiles, and will give you a lot of fun. What else should you consider? Nissan's 350Z is also quite a vehicle, with a lusty V-6, the Mercedes-Benz 350 SLK 350 and new Audi TT are also worth having a look at.

For more reviews about sports cars, visit thesupercars.org and while you are at it, you might also want to have a look at buy used BMW 6 Series.

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

The Land Cruiser Prado the Sophisticated Modern Car

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC) launched the Land Cruiser Prado which is the result of redesign or facelift. The part which redesigned is the headlights with new design and the cabin is more spacious because the increased space between the front seat and second row. Additionally, the structure of body and frame is strengthened as well.

The interesting thing is the additional of sophisticated devices that make the driver of Prado more comfortable and exciting when through any road conditions from smooth road to off-road.

Multi-terrain Monitor

The special technology feature from Land Cruiser Prado is the Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) which makes the damping that generated by the car fits with road surface conditions. In the latest version, there is also additional a Multi-terrain Monitor.

Multi-terrain Monitor display images from cameras that placed at all four sides of the vehicle. With this way, the driver can see the road surface conditions at six surrounding areas, front, rear, front side, and rear right and left.

By using KDSS, the stability of Prado is more stable when driving on the pavement or off-road. For the latter, Prado is also equipped with crawl control. As a result, the ability of Prado in various off-road terrains becomes more stable.

Interior

The windshield uses material that can muffle the noise. In this way, the sound of the wind from the front can be prevented into the cabin. Remarkably, the whole of the body equipped with sound-dampening materials so that the cabin is truly quiet.

The effort of Toyota provides the great silencer related with a sophisticated audio system that used in the Land Cruiser Prado. Toyota calls it "Super-live Sound System", designed by the development themes of Dotou, that is 465-watt amplifier and 14 speakers that optionally placed throughout the cabin.

The system is capable of producing acoustic space with impressive bass tones, a clear high voice and much better if compared with surround sound system 5.1. Like other modern car audio, the interior of the Land Cruiser Prado is also equipped with a plug for an iPod or MP3 player.

There is also the system of "smart entry" and "start" that used to open and lock the front and the back door by only holding the handle of the door. Another feature is the system of start and stop engine via a button.

Engine

Two engines that offered by the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado are a 2.7 liter (2TR-FE) and 4.0 liters (1GR-FEV6). The 1GR-FE uses double Variable Valve Timing-Intelligent (VVT-i) technology.

The system can automatically control the valves. Moreover, Toyota uses a roller valve type. Thus, Toyota claims that the power of engine increased up to 20 kW (27PS) and can save fuel 0.4 km / liter.

1GR-FE engine is installed with five Super ECT sequential shiftmatic transmission. This transmission allows the driver seemed to drive with manual transmission. In addition, this new engine can use regular gasoline (92).

AWD or full-time-wheel drive system and axle equipped with Torsen LSD in all types. The system directly determines the distribution of power to the front and the rear wheels adjusted with the speed, road surface conditions, acceleration, turning and so forth.

The best Version, TZ-G is equipped with AVS (Adaptive Variable Suspension System), or NAV / AI-AVS). This version uses air suspension system that controlled electronically, but only works on the rear suspension.

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado also installed the "multi-terrain select" button on the steering wheel. The objective is to facilitate the driver to select mode, that is Mud & Sand, Loose Rock, Mogul and Rock and to control the traction for optimizing the power and the brakes to get a steady performance in the off-road.

Other Features

Toyota Land Cruiser Prado installed the equipment that called Multi-terrain ABS. By using this tool, the brake performance will be stable on various road conditions, such as road dust, gravel, and sand.

Another system is the Downhill Assist Control (DAC) which functioning to maintain the speed of vehicles and ensure the stability. In addition, there is also Hill-start Assist Control (HAC), this system works by controlling the brake fluid when braking or accelerating. The aim is to prevent the vehicle backward, especially when parked on the ramp and slippery surface.

To get a quality car, you do not have to pay a lot because there are lots of cheap used cars available and they are still in very good condition.

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The 2010 Toyota Corolla

For 2010, the Toyota Corolla adds electronic stability control to its list of standard safety features; it was previously optional.

All 2010 Corollas have front and side airbags, along with curtain side airbags designed to provide head protection for both front- and rear-seat passengers. Also standard are height-adjustable front shoulder harnesses, seat belt pretensioners, and a seat belt force-limiting system that reduces the chances of the belts themselves causing injury.

The Corolla's accident-avoidance equipment includes daytime running lights and the electronic stability control system, which varies engine power and selectively applies the brakes to reduce the risk of skidding in tight turns. All Corollas have ABS, with a brake-assist system that fully applies the brakes in a panic stop.

Despite its safety equipment, some reviewers have sharply criticized the Corolla's emergency handling, saying that its electric power steering is numb and imprecise. Some Corolla buyers have filed complaints with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) about the steering, claiming that it can overreact to small corrections. The NHTSA has not yet announced any investigation of the steering complaints. Toyota has issued a recall on some 2009-2010 Corollas to correct a problem that can cause a loss of power brake assist in cold weather.

The NHTSA has awarded the Toyota Corolla a four-star rating (out of a possible five) for driver and passenger protection in front impacts. Side impact protection rated five stars for front-seat occupants and four stars for rear-seat passengers. Rollover protection rated four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rates the 2010 Corolla's crash protection Good (its highest rating) in all areas except head/neck injury, where it received an Acceptable rating.

Ronnie writes extensively about Toyota Corolla Parts and other related topics.

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The Peugeot 308 Offers the Perfect City

Driving in the city can be a real hassle. There's bumper-to-bumper traffic, drivers who don't have a clue - not to mention endless roadwork and detours that can turn your morning commute a nightmare. It's these frustrating moments that really make the weekend escape worthwhile. There's nothing like the feeling of leaving it all behind, hitting the open road and enjoying your favourite pastime, whether it's surfing, diving or just spending a day at the beach with your mates.

Got your bags all packed up and raring to go? All you need now is the perfect escape vehicle, well have we got the car for you. Consider the practicality and versatility of a touring wagon, like the new or used Peugeot 308, which has been specially engineered and designed for your city escape. It's packed with plenty of horsepower from the shoehorned 1.6 litre turbocharged diesel engine purring underneath the hood, and chock full of creature comforts with plenty of space to take along everything you'd need to enjoy the perfect getaway.

Geared for Travel

This is more than just a car, it's a driving experience. The Peugeot 308 and other touring wagons of its class are the ideal vacation machines. With the removable second and third rows of seats, you have enough real estate to store your surfboard, diving equipment, camping gear - or even take along a net and get into a game of beach volleyball. With more cabin space and room in the boot to spare, you won't have to worry about leaving something behind.

Take Everyone Along

Want to take the whole gang? With the incredibly roomy touring wagon, you can bring the crowd on your dream escape. The spacious seating accommodates up to 6 passengers which means no one gets left out. And the marvellous thing about the Peugeot 308 is that it is incredibly environmentally friendly, boasting great fuel efficiency and low carbon emissions of just 120g/km. So you can hit the road with a clear conscience - not to mention save dollars at the pump.

Go Where You Want

This is a touring wagon that lives up to the dream. From the busy downtown commute to a rugged outback adventure, this beauty will take you anywhere. The fuel tank boasts a 60 litre capacity which means less refilling. The nine airbags, ABS braking system, and high crash ratings exceed all vehicle standards so you can feel confident you're driving in one of the safest vehicles around. When it comes to the Peugeot 308, it's not just the destination that will thrill you. It's the experience of the drive itself. Head to a Sydney Peugeot dealership and test drive one of the finest driving machines on the planet. Complete with sunroof, standout interior decor, streamlined curves and luxurious details galore-you'll be reluctant to step out of the car when you finally arrive at your destination.

About the Author

Trivett is Australia's largest prestige automotive group. We operate dealerships in Parramatta, Blacktown, Alexandria, East Sydney and Melbourne. Visit our website and see our great range of marquees including Aston Martin, Rolls-Royce, BMW, Bentley, Porsche and Harley-Davidson, plus many more.

The 2010 Volkswagen GTI

First Impression
The 2010 Volkswagen GTI competes with BMW 3 series, Infiniti G convertible or Audi A4 because it brings a good feel and enough sensations at the seat of the driver's pants to create a great bond with the vehicle. It can be called another sport car on the road but it's more elaborate than that. It still has the old roof panel like the old designs

2010 Volkswagen is considered to be one of the best cars out there because of its refinements. The new, angular front-end forgoes the 2009's curvilinear front design for something stronger and more masculine. Neatly bent creases replace softer lines along the body. 2010 Volkswagen now has larger taillights, angular headlights and tighter profile. The dual exhaust bookend the lower bumper - this is a sublime design addition that adds strength. Sit a 2010 Volkswagen GTI next to a 2009 and the changes are more apparent.

Interior Features
The interior design of the 2010 Volkswagen is unique:

• Touch the interior materials, for they are solid
• Luxuriate in the driver seat, for it is one of the most comfortable in this bracket
• Grip the steering wheel and marvel at its sporty feel and racing-car design

Not only is the steering wheel the best in this bracket, it is one of the best feeling steering wheels on the market.

Pricing, Trims and Options
I list the starting value of a 2-door and 4-door Volkswagen GTI.

The Volkswagen GTI 2-door with the standard 6-speed manual is priced at starting cost of $23,489. But for a 4-door, 6-speed manual 2010 Volkswagen GTI its base price is $24,089.

Some of its options are as follows:

·Sunroof goes for $1,000.
·Rear side airbags on the 4-door only cost $350.
·Bi-Xenon headlights is valued at $700.
·Dynaudio 300W sound system is priced at $476.
·DVD satellite navigation cost $1,750.

Safety, Quality and Reliability
It's standard safety equipment includes:

• stability control
• antilock disc brakes with brake assist
• front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags

Engine and Transmission

• It has a turbocharged 200 horsepower, 2.0 liter 4-cylinder that puts out 207 pound feet of torque engine.
• It has A 6-speed manual transmission comes standard with a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual

Vehix View of the Volkswagen GTI
Vehix called Volkswagen GTI a top notch European car. It is an exquisite example of how to build a proper hot-hatch. Visit http://www.thefreshlistings.com to see how Vehix solved my problem of finding a new car from the comfort of my home.

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

2010 Range Rover Sport

The 2010 Range Rover Sport builds on its predecessor's impeccable pedigree, and now comes with two new powerplants, a 375 horsepower LR-V8 5.0 liter, naturally aspirated engine, as well as a supercharged version that puts out a mammoth 510 horsepower! In India, you have the option of the 3.0 liter V6 diesel and the 5.0 liter supercharged petrol. And believe me, 510bhp in car such as this, or any car for that matter, is a lot!

These engines were developed in conjunction with Jaguar, and are touted to be lighter and more efficient than the previous generation units. The new naturally aspirated RR Sport can hit 100km/h in a very spritely 7.4 seconds, while the supercharged variant takes just 6.0 seconds - Sport indeed. Both LR-V8 engines are mated to the ZF HP28 six- speed automatic transmission.

This time, we got a chance to sample the naturally aspirated version of the new Range Rover Sport - driving it from San Francisco to Los Angeles, and back, with a mild off-road excursion at a beach on California's glorious Pacific coast.

In terms of styling, the 2010 Range Rover Sport retains the earlier versions clean cut design, The 2010 update does, however, include LED headlamps, combined with a new two-bar grille, revised front bumpers and widened fenders. At the rear, new light clusters, and a revised bumper design mirror the smoother front-end. With its muscular squat stance, the Range Rover Sport certainly has great road presence, and looks just as purposeful whether it's cruising on Hollywood Boulevard or playing in the sand.

According to the company, the interiors have been redesigned using higher quality materials and soft-touch finishes to create an environment that's 'truly worthy of the Range Rover brand: With infinitely adjustable leather seats, tactile, well laid out switches, the interiors of the Range Rover Sport are truly fantastic,and arguably better than most other luxury SUV's on the road today. In fact, the redesign does bring the cabin of the Sport much more in line with its ultra luxurious bigger brother - the original Range. Special mention, also, must be made of the Harmon Kardon surround sound system that boasts 480 watts of power. Its 14 individual speakers produce a dramatic 3D effect from a iz-channel digitally controlled amplifier that makes for outstanding acoustics.

The Sport has a new virtual instrument panel that has the latest Thin-Film- Transistor (TFT) LCD technology that provides exceptional clarity of driver information. Key information found in the instrument cluster includes air suspension height settings, hill descent control and speed settings, as well as Hi/Lo gear ratio selection. The new display certainly makes vehicle data more accessible and easier to read for the driver.

Range Rovers have always been known for their off-road ability. In the new model, the famed Terrain Response system boasts a series of improvements - including improved performance when tackling challenging terrain like sand or large rocks. For soft sand conditions, a 'sand launch control' mode makes for a noticeably easier drive-away. New, speed- dependent wheel-slip targets for the traction control system permit only very limited initial wheel-slip - helping to prevent the wheels digging down into the sand. The system also has an improved rock crawl program for better control while traversing boulders or driving through rocky terrain.

You really have to experience the effortless off-road ability of these vehicles to truly believe it. This particular Range Rover Sport wasn't able to show its full off-road potential however, as it was hampered by massive rims and low profile tarmac tires, which prevented us from taking the Sport into the larger dunes - so we rented some ATV's, and went dune bashing with those instead.

The on-road biased rubber aside, the Sport has an Integrated Body Frame (IBF) chassis that provides the best of both worlds - the strength of a ladder frame chassis, allowing it true off-road capability, as well as the rigidity of a monocoque, giving it good on-road manners. On the road, the new 375 horsepower V8 engine is smooth, and has plenty of torque, which makes for brisk acceleration. This naturally aspirated engine is just 15 horsepower shy of the previous editions supercharged powerplant. And yet, this engine is more efficient than the supercharged car that we tested last year - nonetheless, we could only manage 18 mpg (8 kmpl), which makes for frequent stops at the pump on a long journey. Nevertheless, on long drives, the Sport is an effortless cruiser - the gearing is perfect, and the engine has enough power in reserve to blitz past slower traffic. The extensive use of aluminum in the engine, transmission case, and body panels reduces weight up front and ensures that the car excels, beyond belief, on tight twisting roads - where it feels light and agile. Steering response also is improved on the Range Rover Sport with the stiffening of the front suspension lower arm forward bushing - enhancing the sense of driver involvement at higher speeds.

With its new powerplant, and subtle interior and exterior enhancements, the new Range Rover Sport builds on the previous cars' inherent strengths to offer an even more luxurious and powerful, yet efficient, package.

The new engine is so capable that it becomes hard to justify spending the extra moolah to go in for the supercharged version,which begs the obvious question-why isn't the naturally aspirated 5.0 litre available in india? Nevertheless, with its impeccable looks, the Range Sport has immense road presence and commands respect.Plus the car's versatile and equipped for anything you can throw its way.

And with Jaguar Land Rover sales on the upswing,it seems that Tata motors has reason to smile once again.Moreover,it appears that the initials fears,held by some detractors,that JLR products won't be able to incorporate the latest technology under Indian ownership have been proven completely unfounded by this desirable and modern SUV.Put simply,it's now even more brilliant on-road,and still exceptional off-road as well.

http://maguscars.com/blogs/2010/02/177/ Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jyoti_Gupta

The Honda S2000 Sports Car

The Honda S2000 is a two-door sports car manufactured by the Japanese automobile manufacturer, Honda, between 1999 and 2009. The S2000 was created to celebrate the manufacturers 50th anniversary. This article provides some information about the Honda S2000, its history, changes to specification and why you might want to buy one.

At the heart of all Honda automobiles are their engines and the engine designed for the Honda S2000 is a very special one indeed. Created using lightweight materials, the engine in the early S2000 sport scars are capable of revving up to 9000rpm, producing around 240hp. The early cars used a 1997cc engine mounted front-mid for optimum weight distribution. The VTEC unit in the Honda S2000 means that below 6000rpm the car is quite docile while driving through town but once you get above 6k the car springs to life with an eagerness to head to the red line as quick as possible. In S2000 terms this means a 0-60 sprint in around 6 seconds! The engine is mated to a manual gearbox with no option for automatic.

The Honda S2000 sports cars are available with two designs. The AP1 chassis was introduced in 1999 and ran until 2004 when the AP2 design started manufacture.

The AP1 Honda S2000 had remote central locking, airbags, cassette radio entertainment system and an immobilizer. From 2002 the model benefited from a heated rear screen and 2004 models were available in GT spec with hard top. From 2004 the car has heated mirrors, LED tail lights and an upgraded alarm system.

The AP2 Honda S2000 has remote central locking, airbags, electronic brake force distribution and ABS as standard on the later models.

Options:
If you buy a S2000 then you'll be pleased with the array options which come as standard on a S2000. The S2000 has leather seats available in a variety of colours including some two-tone shades.

From 2004 the GT specification comes with a hardtop as well as the folding roof to help keep you warm in the winter months. The hardtop has a glass heated rear screen.

Of course, all manufacturers produce a list of optional extras for your car and the S2000 benefits from an optional spoiler for extra racy looks, front and rear protectors and extra speakers for the hifi.

Colours:
The Honda S2000 is available in Berlina Black, Moon rock metallic grey, Silverstone Metallic Silver, Lime Green Metallic; Royal Navy Blue Pearl; Neuburgring Blue Metallic; New Formula Red; Monza Red Pearl; Imola Orange Pearl and New Indy Yellow Pearl. Popular colours for the Honda S2000 are the Neuburgring Blue, Moon rock and Silverstone metallic silver colours. Inside the cockpit, the leather seats are available in Red, Black and Tan, or blue for the Neuburgring coloured cars. Two-tone red-black seats are also available.

Size:
The Honda S2000 is approximately 4100mm long by 1750mm wide.

Running costs:
If your looking for a low cost runabout then you probably should be looking elsewhere. That nippy engine earns the Honda S2000 an insurance group 20 quote! Take it steady on the motorway and you could get upto 35mpg though combined cycle will get more like 28mpg. Also road tax could quite easily be between £200-£400 at time of writing. Servicing costs aren't too bad

Prices
The Honda S2000 has been around for quite a long time now and there are many higher mileage cars around the £5k area. A good well cared for model can be had for around £8-10K for an AP1 spec or £12k plus for an AP2. Prices are representative at the time of writing. Honda has an excellent reputation for reliability so buying an older car shouldn't represent too much of a risk when compared with other options.

Alternatives:
Around at the same time as the S2000 was the Mazda MX5 and Porsche Boxster 2-door open top sports cars. The little Mazda is a fun car to drive with an almost classical style and look dating back to cars of the 60's. The Porsche boxster is a highly accomplished sports car at the lower end of the Porsche range.

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2010 World Car of the Year

The British-designed Vauxhall Insignia - one of the top ten best sellers in the UK car market in 2009 - is recognised on the shortlist.

Recent bad weather has spurred on sales of compact SUVs such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X1, which are also nominated.

Traditional small cars also get a look-in, with Volkswagen's new Polo supermini set to be a common sight on the roads; the with Mazda3 treading in the footsteps of a previous nominee and eventual winner, the Mazda2 ; plus the unorthodox the Kia Soul.

The Toyota Prius hybrid is the sole alternatively-fuelled vehicle, while the Chevrolet Cruze saloon represents budget models.

Higher up the food chain are the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and Porsche Panamera, both large executive/luxury saloons.

The successful car will be announced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2010.

Askaprice.com provides quotes on new cars, special offers on new cars and an extensive range of used cars, whether small, family, executive, luxury or hybrid cars.

Askaprice.com works with a network of dealers throughout the UK to connect car buyers with great deals on new or used cars, as well as leasing and contract hire.

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About the Author

The shortlist for the 2010 World Car of the Year includes several models that are perennial favourites on the British car market.

Audi the Philanthropic Side

Audi is internationally recognized as one of the leaders in building high quality, performance cars. Now, the automobile manufacturer is making news outside of the car industry. Recently, Audi has announced its partnership with the German Olympic Sports Confederation (DOSB) and National Promoter of the German National Paralympic Committee (DSB).

This philanthropic activity is nothing new to Audi. In the past, Audi has partnered with sports such as soccer, golf, sailing and the German Ski Federation. By joining forces with the Olympic games, Audi has made a strong commitment to athletic excellence and peaceful and fair competition among nations.

For the Vancouver Olympics set to take place in February of 2010. Audi will provide complementary vehicles for shuttle service designated form German athletes. The transportation service will also be open to guests of the German house, its annex in Whistler as well the Paralympics German House. Audi also has future plans of putting together a string of events designated for the athletes.

Audi has a history of aiding German Olympians. For years, Audi has allowed Olympic and Paralympic teams to use their wind tunnel facilities. Ski jumpers and swimmers have been utilizing these centers with great success. The use of these facilities has allowed athletes to develop better technique and form, which has helped them compete at a higher level. Using these facilities has also allowed researchers to test and develop new gear for the athletes.

For instance, Audi assisted in the development of a new hand-bike technology used for Paralympic athletes, which demonstrates Audi's continuing commitment to athletic excellence. As a leader in the car industry, Audi is taking a new responsibility through the efforts of assisting in peaceful and fair competition among nations.

George Hanson writes about automobiles and consumer tips. You can find more information at audittsline.com. Follow his blog at: audittsline

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Volvo S80 the Luxury Sedan

Volvo's S80 luxury sedan adds a more fuel-efficient PZEV (Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle) engine to its option list for 2010.

The base S80 3.2 uses a 3.2-liter six-cylinder engine, rated at 235 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. Known as the B6324S, this is a very compact 24-valve, DOHC inline six, designed for transverse-engine, FWD applications. Newly optional for 2010 is a PZEV version, retuned for lower emissions and better fuel economy. The PZEV engine has only 225 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, but meets tough Tier II, Bin 2 EPA emissions standards.

Both 3.2-liter engines lag behind key rivals in both power and fuel economy. The 3.2-liter's 16/25 EPA rating is sub-par for this class, and the PZEV engine's 18/27 rating is no better than the bigger V6s in the Cadillac CTS or Lincoln MKZ, both of which have better overall performance and greater refinement.

The S80 T6 AWD has a 3.0-liter turbocharged six, rated at 281 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This engine, known as B6304T, has an intercooled twin-scroll turbocharger, designed to enhance power at low and mid-range engine speeds. The 3.0-liter turbo engine brings the S80's performance in line with similarly priced rivals, and its 16/24 EPA rating is only slightly worse than the 3.2-liter.

The top-of-the-line S80 V8 AWD has a 4.4-liter DOHC V8 with 311 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. This all-aluminum engine, known as the B8444S, was designed by Volvo and Yamaha. It has an unusual 60-degree bank angle, making it compact enough for transverse applications. The 4.4-liter V8 is only slightly stronger than the 3.0-liter turbo, and its 311 horsepower is unimpressive for an engine of this size. The 3.6-liter V6 in the 2010 Cadillac CTS nearly matches the V8's power and soundly beats its thirsty 15/22 EPA rating.

Learn more about SW Engines with subjects such as Volvo S80 Engine and other related areas of interest.

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2010 Toyota 4Runner

Toyota's first 4Runner was rugged, tough and capable. That was 1994—and nothing has changed. The 2010 on- and off-road favorite is still all of those things, and better.

All models have wider shoulders and new-design head and taillights. The SR5 also wears overfenders, mudguards and a standard roof rack, and the outside mirrors on V6 models now incorporate turn signals and puddle lamps. The Trail grade has a higher ground clearance, better approach and departure angles and a wide selection of functional upgrades to optimize its off-road performance, plus front and rear bumper guards, a unique hood scoop, specific wheels, black outside mirrors and a dark smoke treatment on the front and rear lamps. The Limited and SR5 sport chrome trim on their grille inserts, fog lamp bezels, roof rack, bumper and side moldings, and color-keyed side skirts and overfenders for a more premium appearance.

Rear-drive 2010 4Runners offer a choice of a 157-hp 2.7-liter four with a 4-speed automatic or a 270-hp 4.0-liter V6 coupled to a 5-speed automatic, while all 4x4 models get the V6/five-speed combo. With advanced engine management that includes Toyota's dual independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i), this new V6 pumps out 34 more horses than the previous V6 and 10 more than the previously available V8. Yet (partly thanks to the new body's somewhat slipperier shape) its EPA fuel economy improves from 16 mpg city/21 highway to 17/23 for 4x2s and from 16/20 to 17/22 for 4x4 models. And both achieve 19-mpg EPA combined ratings, about a five percent better than last year. The standard VVT-i 4-cylinder in the SR5 4x2 is EPA rated at 18 mpg city/23 highway.

SR5 and Trail 4x4 models have a two-speed part-time system with a manual lever, while the Limited packs full-time four-wheel drive with a locking center differential. Toyota's A-TRAC system, standard on all 4x4 models, can distribute driving force to any one wheel in contact with the ground, and the Trail grade has an electronic-locking rear differential. An automatic LSD (Limited Slip Differential) provides better slick-road traction on 4x2 models.

The Trail grade also offers: 1) standard Crawl Control (CRAWL), which can be tuned to match the terrain by selecting one of five speed levels; 2) a Multi-Terrain Select system that allows the driver to dial in wheel slip control to match the terrain; and 3) optional Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS), which improves terrain-following ability by disconnecting the stabilizer bars for better suspension articulation and more axle travel in slow, difficult terrain. All 4x4 4Runners have Downhill Assist Control (DAC) for steep descents and Hill-start Assist Control (HAC) to keep the vehicle stationary while starting on a steep incline.

For improved on-road handling, the Limited features an X-REAS suspension system that automatically adjusts shock-damping force in corners and on rough surfaces. It also uses a center control damper to cross-link shocks on opposite corners to significantly reduce pitch and yaw. As a result, the Limited corners and handles choppy pavement amazingly well. The 2010 4Runner's Star Safety System includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) with traction control (TRAC), an Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. In addition go active headrests for the driver and front passenger, its eight standard airbags includes front, side-mounted and knee bags and side curtain bags for the second and third rows.

The instrument cluster houses speedometer, tachometer, voltage, fuel and temperature gauges and a multi-function meter. Major controls are large and industrial looking, suitable for a working truck that will be driven while wearing gloves. Off-road control switches are easily organized on an overhead console. Water-resistant fabric seats are standard on Trail models, while leather is standard on Limited and optional on SR5. The Limited also has Smart Key keyless entry with push-button start and automatic dual-zone climate control.

The front seats have a greater range of adjustment than before, and the sculpted front seatbacks increase second-row knee room. The second-row seats recline up to 16 degrees, and (available) third-row access is improved with a one-touch walk-in function. The 40/20/40 second-row and 50/50 third-row seats fold flat, the former without removing their headrests, the latter using convenient one-touch mechanisms on their sides, or at the rear. Another great convenience feature is an available slide-out cargo deck that doubles as sheltered outside seating (for up to 440 pounds) and comes with a 6.4-liter storage box behind the rear seat.

The base SR5 8-speaker AM/FM/CD audio gets upgraded on the Trail grade with MP3 capability, integrated XM Satellite Radio (with a 90-day trial subscription), a USB port with iPod connectivity steering wheel controls and Bluetooth hands-free phone and music streaming capability. An optional 15-speaker JBL premium system has a six-disk CD changer and a way cool Party Mode setting that raises the bass and transfers equalization to the rear for tailgating.

Although the full-frame, truck-based SUV market has dramatically shrunk due to fuel economy concerns, this versatile and relatively fuel efficient new 4Runner may be an excellent choice for those who still want or need one, especially for serious off-road usage.

autoMedia.com boasts over 60,000 pages of original articles, including over 2,100 features researched and written by leading automotive experts, covering car buying, maintenance and technology. For automotive advice you can trust, read more about the 2010 Toyota 4Runner, including pricing, rebates and incentives and photo galleries along with details on all Toyota Models.

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