BMW CUSTOM CAR GRILLS BMW 3 Series - BMW 5 Series - BMW 6 Series - BMW 7 Series - BMW X59/11/2008
BMW Car | BMW Car Grills
BMW CUSTOM CAR GRILLS BMW 3 Series - BMW 5 Series - BMW 6 Series - BMW 7 Series - BMW X5
BMW Car | BMW a live legend!
The beginning of BMW was the beautiful morning of July 9th, 1929 when BMW announced on an entire newspaper page that is going to be a car producer. They presented a small car, named 3/15 PS in the centre of Berlin. People called the car Dixi and so the first BMW car became history!Dixi: bigger inside than outside
What was a premiere for this segment were the 2 doors body that was made from steel. Dixi was having an air-cooling propeller in 4 cylinders, capacity- 750 cm3 that was developing a power of 15 hp. The structure was from riveted iron plate pieces. The both decks were rigid. “Bigger inside than outside” was the first advertising campaign for BMW.
Dixi, or better said 3/15 PS wasn’t made totally by BMW. In the beginning, BMW’s constructors wanted to design something else. From 1918 till 1928 were taking in considerations many models and BMW was developing many small, medium and large cars, many of them using front traction. In 1928, the board of directors was decided to produce under license a model already finished and very promising. Finally, 3/15 PS Dixi was chose and it was produced under Eisenach license, a carbon copy for Austin Seven, a small 4 cylinders car.
Austin Seven, 1922
This car development (Austin) was made in England, starting in 1922 and was inspired by the famous model Fort T.
Fort T, 1922
Fort T, 1922
Before BMW replaced Austin with BMW they did something else- brought the car technology at the best performances. As we all know, the time is very precious, and other producers had on the market small models, the constructor limited to create a new body. At that time, the first steel car bodies were built by Ambi-Budd for few companies in a big factory, in Berlin. That was the first Dixi body for BMW to use.
BMW Car | Like Car Ads? You’ll Be Getting More Online.
by Kristen NicolePerhaps you’ve noticed that we’ve been keeping an eye on advertising trends and how they relate to online and social networking potential. It’s clear that advertising is expected to generally increase in the online sector, even at a slower pace in some areas, and the trend is the same specifically for the automobile industry.
While ad spending in the auto industry is expected to slow down or plateau in the next year, the dollars spent are actually expected to shift from television and print ads to online and out-of-home marketing. This makes sense, as more consumers are shopping online for cars, and spend a good amount of time online researching cars.
[via Advertising Age]
So what does this mean for the actual implementation of advertising online?
We’ll see more rich media ads online, in increasingly targeted ways. With online advertising taking taking a particularly social turn this year, there are a good amount of options to take advantage of on this front. But we’ll also see better use of existing online tools, especially those that closely mimic traditional media platforms. That mans a rise in online classifieds that are separate from newspaper portals, and likely more spending in other commerce portals like eBay.
This is prime time for such websites to begin catering more towards the individual consumer, as Oodle has done with a few releases in the past few month: stats and history offer additional information that consumers can take advantage of, and that easily translates into some semblance of market research for the auto industry. Advertisers can always make good use of that. While I don’t think that virtual world marketing worked out exactly according to plan, especially for the auto industry, I do imagine that advertising on this level will continue in the coming year as well.
[image via ixpats]VW Car | 2nd Annual All VW Show March 2007
Come join us for the 2nd annual Niello All VW Car Show and Swap Meet. This year's event will be held on March 25th at the Niello VW dealership located at 2701 Arden Way in Sacramento California. This show is open to all air and water cooled Volkswagens.This year we are doing things a little different. All proceeds raised at this event will be donated to the "Ride to Walk" foundation. Ride to Walk is a therapeutic horseback riding program located in Lincoln California that enables children and adults with neurological disabilities to ride horses while benefiting from the therapeutic aspects of horseback riding. Please visit their website at www.ridetowalk.org for more details.
This year we are having a total of 14 judged classes as well as an award for Best Club Representation. See the listing at the bottom of this posting for more details.
Once again there is no cost to enter your car or to use a swap space, but we encourage you to make a donation to the Ride to Walk Foundation. Registration will be the morning of the event, and will be limited to the first 100 cars - please show up early, we expect all 100 spots to fill up. All entries into the car show will receive an event t-shirt, dash plaque and a goody bag.
We will be playing music through Sirius radio, along with raffle prizes throughout the day and a 50/50 raffle. In the morning hours and throughout the day we will be having the Red Rooster Waffle truck here (visit the website at www.redroosterwaffles.com), and we will have BBQ hamburgers and hot dogs with all the fixings for the afternoon. Please browse at the itinerary below for the schedule of all our events. Hope to see you all there!!
Itinerary:
| 6:30 am | Swap meet and set-up |
| 7:00 am - 10:30 am | Registration |
| 11:00 am - 2:00 pm | Judging of show cars |
| 1:00 pm | Presentation of special awards |
| 2:00 pm | Show car awards |
| 2:30 pm | Official end of the 2nd annual Niello car show |
Judging Classes (1st Place & Runner-Up):
- Air Cooled:
- Ghia
- Type I (-67)
- Type I (68-)
- Type II (-67)
- Type II (68-)
- Type III / IV (all)
- Baja / Buggy / Thing
- Water Cooled:
- MK1
- MK2
- MK3
- MK4
- MK5
- Passat
- Corrado / Scirocco
- Overall:
- Best Beater
- Best Club Representation (1st place only)
- People's Choice (1st place only)
VW Car | VW Transaxles
Many applications in off-road and sand don't need the strength and cost of a racing transaxle. VW transaxles usually handle up to 300HP in some cases and cost less money. 091 Bus transaxles have been in sandrails and off-road cars for years running reliably and successful.
If you're considering using a VW Transaxle, call us. A lot of things need to be considered when choosing a transaxle, such as car weight, tire size, engine type, horsepower, and your driving style.
Besides the most popular 091 transaxle, we also specialize in 002, and Type 1 transaxles for those of you that have smaller cars. We have all the parts to put together a custom setup to be stronger than stock VW transaxle. All rebuilds have critical parts magniflux inspected to insure the integrity is solid. Satisfaction is our primary goal, we must build our transaxles to last so you'll come back the next time you need help.
VW Car | Volkswagen shares tumble after warning
Shares in Volkswagen, Europe's biggest car maker, have fallen sharply after it warned of lower profits this year.The German car giant blamed weak consumer demand and the strength of the euro for the warning that 2003 operating profits would fall short of last year's 4.76bn euros ($5.24bn; £3.3bn)
"Given present exchange rates ... and in the event that the market situation in Western Europe and the US does not improve, we will not be able to match the 2002 operating profit," chief executive Bernd Pischetsrieder said.
The warning initially sent VW shares down 10% to their lowest level since December 1996, and wiped almost 1bn euros off the firm's stock market value.
The stock had recovered by 1705 GMT to stand down 7.95% at 30.14 euros.
Shares in other European automakers were also lower, with Peugeot stock down 1% at 34.86 euros, and Renault shares 4% lower at 30.05 euros.
Brighter future
But Mr Pischetsrieder foresaw rosier trading in 2004, when cost cuts and new models would "reverse the picture".
"It is clear that 2004 will be a year that will benefit from new products without the substantial ramp-up costs we have had this year," he said.
And some investors expressed surprise at the stock market reaction to Tuesday's statement.
"There has been a lot of talk that VW will disappoint on the operating earnings side this year due to the big model cycle switch," said Trudbert Merkel, fund manager at Deka Group in Frankfurt.
"This is [a] long-awaited warning."
VW Car | VW Eos: Goodyear Tire Equipped
What’s new with the latest VW Eos?One very prominent thing: Goodyear Eagle LS-2 tires.
But there’s more that the VW Eos has got to offer. There’s the distinctive metal roof that could fold neatly into the trunk. No mess! And really does offer great performance and driving experience.
The VW Eos is also known and called as a CSC. No it does not stand for something quite breathtaking or completely foreign. It simply stands for coupe, sunroof, convertible. Nice, huh?
The VW Eos is also known and called as a CSC. No it does not stand for something quite breathtaking or completely foreign. It simply stands for coupe, sunroof, convertible. Nice, huh?
Here are other stuff that you could find with the Eos:
* 2.0-liter turbo engine
* 3.2 liter V6 engine
* stability control
* sports seats
* 17-inch alloy wheels
VW Car | Tiguan, The New VW Car
Meet the Volkswagen Tiguan. It is the Volkswagen Touareg’s little bro and this new car would be launched in a couple of years. Remember how there was a contest on what to name the new car? Well, the contest is over and the Tiguan name won over all other entries. There were more than 350,000 votes during the whole duration of the voting.The name Tiguan won over other names which are Nanuk, Namib, Rockton, and Samun. And this name actually represents something exotic, adventurous, exciting, and up for long journeys. That’s the VW Tiguan for you.
VW Car | VW Cozy
Handmade Volkswagen Bug Cozy, one of a kind.This was the most-est fun project I have been connected to in a long time..a hand knit “VW car cozy”….we all need one you know!Mercedes Benz | A Mercedes K 30 Three Seater
A friend sent me 3 Mercedes Benz K30 pictures. A doubt that I can find this kind of car (or motorcycle or even pedicab?) in other places but Bangkok (as stated on its register). I bet even you drive this very expensive car you'll get yourself wet when caught by rain. Also, I'm not sure you'll be very comfortable inside the Mercedes Benz K 30.
VW Car | Tiguan a Touareg brother
Tiguan was formerly known as A concept, and the "Tiguan" name was chosen amongst other alternative name such as Nanuk, Namib, Rockton and Samun, that AutoBild Group reader's had to vote.
Tiguan will be launched in 5 variants, 3 gasoline with 148 pk, 168 pk and 197 pk, and 2 diesel engine with 138pk and 168 pk respectively. From the power output, presumably Tiguan will feature 2.0 Lt - 2.5 Lt engine (let compare it with Nissan X-Trail 2.5 Lt that produce output 178 pk).
iguan will enter the suv compact marketplace alongside with BMW X3, Ford Escape, Suzuki Escudo, Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, KIA Sportage II, Mazda Tribute, Nissan X-Trail, Toyota RAV4 that has been successfully entering the market.
From its dimension, Tiguan may be called as Touareg brother, the latter was showed publicity in Paris Motor Show 2002 along with Porsche Cheyenne.
4Motion is enganging Tiguan, as well as Touareg as a new motion drive made by Volkswagen. Also suspensions will be more comfort, so it still comfortable whether onroad or offroad.
picture: via
Suzuki Car | Suzuki SX-4 to WRC
After successfully sell over 25.000 units in European market, Suzuki SX-4 Crossover .. the first ever Suzuki's crossover is trying to make an entry to the most challenging rally championship, World Rally Championship.
This big leap, seems has been awaited by Suzuki after Suzuki Swift with 1600cc engine in Junior Class proven their existence with Per Gunner Andersson, Urmo Aava, Aigar Pars & Michal Kosciszko.
To enter the WRC 2008 season, Susuki has prepared the SX-4 WRC featuring 2000cc engine, 4 cylinders. Based on the ordinary SX-4 2000cc, Suzuki Motorsport only need to add turbocharger as per regulation plus adding more piston diameter and stroke. Also the engine is retuning to add more torsion in low rpm.
The WRC car also can be changed to be a 4x4 car, because special regulation allows Suzuki's technicians to cut the floor off to add a 4x4 system.
SX-4 WRC is a Suzuki Motorsport special project involving professional engineers inside its, specially Michael Nadan, a Technical Manager, an European Engineer that was born in Monte Carlo and has many experience in big WRC teams such as Toyota and Peugeot.
picture: via
Mitsubishi Car | Mitsubishi Colt R Version
Mitsubishi Colt R Version is a crossover of a hatcback sport and small multipurpose vehicle, the forehead almost look like a Mercedes Benz A Class, but it more sporty in the lines and shapes.
Mitsubishi Colt R Version has a length dimension 3.925 m, width 1.695 m and wheelbase 2.500 m. With engine capacity: 1468 cc, 4 inline cylinders, 16 valves, DOHC, MIVEC and turbocharged!
With 5 speed transmission, the maximum power is 152 pk and maximum torque is 210 Nm at 3,500 rpm.
Mercedes Benz A Class
Mitsubishi Colt Version-R in Video
Mitsubishi Colt Ralliart Version-R
Ford Car | Ford Mustang GT 500 1968 'Eleanor' - Wanna Drive it?
Remember a 1967 Ford Mustang GT500 named 'Eleanor' in "Gone in Sixty Seconds" starred by Nicolas Cage? Now you can own another 'Eleanor' with US $115,900.00.
Unlike Eleanor in Gone in Sixty Second, this car is a Mustang GT 500 1968, was built a year later after Gone in Sixty Second Eleanor's. It is painted black-on-orange, overall impression of this car are stunning. Fully restored exterior, interior and engine.
Below are pictures of Ford Mustang GT 500 1968 Eleanor, and Ford Mustang 1967 GT 500 Eleanor 'Gone in Sixty Seconds'
Ford Mustang GT 500 1968 Eleanor's Engine
Ford Mustang 1967 GT 500 Eleanor 'Gone in Sixty Seconds'
Interested to bid Eleanor? Then please bid!
VW Car | New DSG from Volkswagen
Volkswagen has just released a new transmission system called DSG (direct select gearbox) with 7 speed, the latest generation of DSG clutch that is lighter, smaller, and more efficient compared the former DSG gearbox
The automatic gearbox that also can be shifted up or shifted down manually is called DQ200, using a dry double clutch that require less cooling system or even none. It's totally different from the predecessor (DSG 6 speed) that uses a wet double clutch that definitely need a cooling system and has more weight than the newly DSG 7 speed.
The newly DSG system also requires less power on shifting process, and servo clutch, hence will raise the fuel efficiency and engine performance. The double clutch also prevent engine rpm dropped on shifting process, so it will accelerate faster compared with a manual transmission car.
The first VW car to use DQ200 is Golf GT 1.4 TSI twincharger and Golf GT 1.9 TDI Diesel
his transmission system is cross attached inside the car compactly, with 7 kgs lighter than a conventional 6 speed transmission.
VW Car | Car as a risk assessor
Technology becomes more and more an improvement for car safety. Hopefully this works because the VW electronics in the Phaeton are not too reliable.Cars may soon be smart enough to eliminate accidents at road junctions, thanks to top researchers.A specially equipped VW Phaeton has proved technology can automatically spot potential hazards lurking at a busy crossroads and help the driver avoid collisions there. The electronics could be available as soon as 2009.
Laser radars in the front light clusters and a windscreen video camera capture masses of detail about the road up to 80 metres ahead. Computers in the boot then analyse the data, identifying lane markings, traffic lights, road signs, vehicles and pedestrians.
"On test, the system spotted all the dangers," said a spokesman. Dash lights and audible alerts warn of any risk, and the computer also works out the rights of way so it can tell if the driver is about to make a hazardous manoeuvre.
It will soon predict approaching traffic lights so the driver arrives on a green signal. BMW and Peugeot are also involved in the EU-backed project, with prototypes due next year.
Related news: Foursprung, P4MR, VW
Source: Auto Express
9/10/2008
Hyundai Car | Cars For Retirees
Cars are no longer just marketed to the hip segment of the market, to the fashionable, to the young, to the moneyed, the sports minded and to the sports-driven; car manufacturers take the needs of our retirees at the forefront as well. That’s right new cars that are designed right now are not just geared for the young; but these cars are geared for the ‘more mature’ segment of our society. The rationale is simple; to make driving easier and simpler for our retirees.
Right now, both Kia and Hyundai offer vehicles that can guide drivers with less-than-perfect eyesight. Perfect examples are the Hyundai Santa FE SUV and the Kia Sedona mini-van. Both models offer large climate and audio controls with stand-out text. The Acura brand also makes its one model retiree-friendly. The Acura RDX SUV features a driver seat that effectively adjusts to eight different settings. The pre-selected settings will effectively help drivers with limited range of motion in the upper body. These kind of amenities and features should come as a standards to up and coming vehicles since there is a growing market as well for our ‘retiree’ or the consumers that are aged 65 and older. In fact, according to the US Census Bureau statistics, more than 30 million licensed drivers are over 65 years old.
Forbes.com made a listing of what cars are best for retirees. They used a number of factors and these factors include crash-test safety ratings, safety measures such as the air bags, the driver’s seat position in proportion to the vehicle’s controls, the ease of egress and entrance and cargo space as well. So what cars made Forbes short list? At the top of the list is the Honda Odyssey. This vehicle scored high on safety ratings, an eight way power adjustable seats and there’s a sliding door for easy opening. Trailing the Odyssey are the Kia Sedona and the Hyundai Santa Fe. The Hyundai Entourage and the Honda CRV also made the cut.
The Honda Odyssey is a mini van that is produced by Honda and was first released in 1995. This van was available in three generations. There were two related but distinct Odysseys that were produced since 1999. The much larger Odyssey were sold in the North American market and the smaller ones that are sold in Japan and other markets. The Kia Sedona is yet another mini van from the Kia brand. The Honda CRV is a compact crossover SUV that is available in the market since 1996. The design of the CRV is loosely based from the Honda Civic so as to satisfy the need or the public demand for a sport utility vehicle coming from Honda.
Ford Car | 2008 Ford Expedition
It’s presence cannot be brushed aside on the road. In fact its hefty size and its simple yet luxurious design is sure to get second glances on the road. I am talking about one of my fave SUV out there, the Ford Expedition. In fact this isn’t really an ordinary SUV that you see on the road, this is Ford’s flagship SUV. This is an SUV that features both power and comfort and put safety atop of its list. But then there’s a little drawback. Just like other SUVs out there, the Ford Expedition consumes a great amount of fuel. In fact the vehicle registers 12 mpg for the base model of the Expedition. Not a great vehicle to use if you would want a long distance drive the whole day. But taking this aside, the Expedition is one brawny and safe vehicle on and off the road.
Safety is one attribute that this SUV is proud of. The Safety Canopy System with rollover sensor is a standard and so does the AdvanceTrac and the 4-Wheel ABS. The standard AdvanceTrac with the RSC or the Roll Stability Control is actually a class exclusive and is included on the SUV as a standard. What the AdvanceTrac does on the vehicle is to effectively monitors the driver input, the road conditions and the slippage as well so as to deliver the right torque at the opportune time. The RSC system on the other hand is the one that measures the roll motion, applies the individual ABS brakes and in the process reduce the torque as well. The Safety Canopy is another great safety standard on the SUV. This system features 2nd generation side curtain airbags that can enhance interior protection in all three rows. What this means to you is that whenever an impact or an accident to occur, the vehicle has got you covered thru the Canopy system. This SUV is powered by the 5.4L Triton V8 engine. This engine can deliver 300 horsepower and 365 lb.-ft of torque. With this great power comes great towing capabilities as well. The power that is carried by the SUV actually gives the car a maximum 9,200-lb towing capacity when the vehicle is equipped with the available Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow Package.
The claim of the manufacturer that the Ford Expedition is a safe SUV is actually validated by the NHTSA rating. This SUV netted the highest 5-star rating for the past eight years. This is the highest frontal test rating for the drive and the right front passenger that was given by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or the NHTSA. The extended-length version of the Expedition that was introduced in 2007 also earned the same ratings.
Lexus Car | Lexus LF-A to Compete with Ferraris/Porsches
The Lexus LF-A is a concept vehicle of Lexus that integrates the simple elegance of the new Lexus design initiative with the racing-inspired racing. The concept also features sculpted curves and the fluid lines as well. The concept was re-launched in 2007 at the North American International Show in Detroit. When it was unveiled in early 2007, it was announced that the concept car will feature a V10 engine that can deliver more than 500 horsepower. This supercar was unveiled together with the other concept car, the IS-F. Though these two are different concepts, there is actually a similarity that runs in between them. Both used the designation ‘F’ and this label was initially conceived with the project Circle-F where F stands for flagship. The code was initially the name for the Lexus brand. This supercar was initially seen at the 2005 NAIAS; with an intention to be Lexus’ vehicle to traverse new grounds. All along, the Lexus is known for luxury cars but with the development and the introduction of these two cars, it is expected that Lexus is set to take a new direction. The design intention of the LF-A will run thru the lines of L-finesse. The car features a mid-engine and a rear-mounted transaxle and rear-mounted radiators that can allow for an excellent weight distribution. The F logo will be located on each front fender.A Lexus LF-A prototype is now being tested, and as mentioned one of its intensive development is by way of the Nurburgring track. The prototype is a regular custmoer of the 22km track since the car has been seen in the area in recent months.
Nissan Car | The ‘Ring’
No, this isn’t the movie. Though I really love that movie, the original version that is. I am talking about the strip that is so popular among tuners and car manufacturers. It’s name is oft-repeated when talks shift to car testing and development. I am talking about Nurburgring. I just did a little research on this strip since this name once again popped out when I did a small research on the Lexus LF-A. I also remembered this strip since I read that the Nissan Skyline GT-R was also tested here.
The Nurburgring is also named as the The Ring by the enthusiasts; and this race track is located in Nurburg, Germany. In its original form, the race track originally featured four track configurations. This race track as mentioned played host to a number of cars in production and most importantly played host to prototypes in development. The demanding layout of the tracks help car manufacturers probe their cars and prototypes. Some of the big names that used this site includes Nissan for their GT-R, Toyota for the Lexus supercar, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Saleen and also General Motors. General Motors is new to the track and one of the very first models that was tested at the track is the Cadillac CTS-V and the fifth generation Chevrolet Corvette.
Murcielago Car : The Gas-guzzler?
With rising petrol prices, some consumers are taking a step back and taking a good look at their situations at the outside. Who wouldn’t? Rising prices of oil means spending more for gas, while reducing the budget for other expenses. Owners of fuel efficient cars need not worry but for the owners of the so-called gas-guzzlers on the road this issue is sure to worry them a bit. One such car that is often labeled as a gas-guzzler is the Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 roadster. A gallon of gas on this roadster can get you to only 8 miles in the city! The Murcielago post 13 miles per gallon on highways. Based on estimates, a driver of the Murcielago is expected to pay $5,025 a year in fuel costs.
The roadster version of the Murcielago. If enthusiasts can shell out more than $300,000 for this roadster, then perhaps the cost of fuel for a year that can help sustain the Murcielago won’t worry the enthusiasts too much?
The LP640 of Lamborghini was initially introduced at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2006, and this model is modified for the coupe version. Performance and power is centered on the 6.5 Liter engine that can produce 472 kW. As with the base Murcielago, engine is mounted backwards. The body of the car is crafted from steel and carbon fiber. The vehicle also features a new 18 inch Herrera alloy wheels and the vehicle also retains the original car’s scissor-opening doors. When it was initially offered in the market, the LP640 coupe has a sticker price of $318,800. The term ‘LP’ actually stands for Longitudinale Posteriore that actually refers to the longitudinally-mounted engine.
The car above is the roadster. The new Lamborghini Murcielago LP640 Roadster was unveiled at the 2006 Los Angeles Autoshow. The car retains the same engine and the only design modification were the oil cooling vents behind the air intakes, interior changes and a reinforced body.
Chevy Volt |Tax-break for Chevy Volt?
It seems that General Motors is laying the right ground work for expected arrival of the Chevy’s Volt. One news report suggest that General Motors is seeking a tax break for the Chevrolet Volt. The company is lobbying Congress to set up tax credits for the extended range electric vehicles, such as the plug-in hybrid. If some of the speculations are to be believed, the tax break on the Volt can take away anywhere from $3,000.00 to $7,000.00 off the vehicle’s sticker price. Though General Motors have not announced a fix pricing for the Volt, some reports suggest that the price could be pegged at $40,000.00. A spokesman for GM, Greg Martin said that when that tax break do happen in the future, it won’t solely be available and exclusive for the Volt. Any tax break that will benefit the Volt will surely benefit other similar vehicles that uses the same technology. Nissan, Toyota and Ford have been working with policy makers right now to ensure that a legislative language includes extended-range electric vehicles and other future green-tech vehicles. Toyota Prius enjoyed tax breaks as well and this were part of the company’s initial push for the product in the market. This is a step to help spur consumer acceptance of the hybrid. But not all hybrid may be covered by tax breaks, if indeed it will happen. One such vehicle that isn’t expected to be included is the Tesla Roadster. This $100,000.00 plus ride is a high-end niche vehicle.
The spokesman for GM added that no action on the petition is expected until after the presidential election in November. The vehicle is still on target for the expected 2010 production.
Ford Car | Quality Leaders: Ford and Toyota
Based on the surveys and research conducted by Strategic Vision, Toyota and Ford tied for leading in the most segments on the Strategic Vision’s Total Quality Index. Both companies saw their models top three segments each. Toyota Motors lead with their Yaris for the small car segment, the 4Runner for the medium SUV and the Toyota Sequioa for the large SUV segment. Ford on the other hand sends Edge to top the medium crossover segment, the Mustang Convertible for convertibles under $30,000.00 and the Ford F-250/350 for the heavy-duty pickup segment. The survey done by Strategic Vision featured 19 different segments. Aside from the six already mentioned, the other segments include the small multi-function, medium car, the large car, the small specialty under $25,000.00, the near luxury car, the luxury car, convertibles over $30,000.00, minivan, small SUV, the near luxury SUV, the luxury SUV, the standard pickup and the large pickup. Aside from the noted winners from both Ford and Toyota, the results also net added leaders for the two companies. For Toyota Motor Sales, added leaders are the Scion xB and the Lexus RX 350 and for Ford on the other hand, its for the Mercury Sable and the VOlvo C30.
The Total Quality Index of Strategic Vision is considered as the premier measure of the new vehicle owner satisfaction. Buyers of these vehicles are asked to rate all aspects of their ownership experience that starts from buying and owning to performance and driving.
If the results provided for by Strategic Vision will be by brand, then BMW leads all brands, followed closely by Hummer, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Infiniti, Lexus, Land Rover, Cadillac, Lincoln and Volkswagen. By corporation count, Volkswagen AG leads all corporation with a total quality index score of 892 out of the possible 1,000 points. General Motors finished second as a corporation at 867 and GM is followed by Ford Motor and Honda that tied at 862. Toyota Motors gets the fifth slot with a score of 860, the industry average. The industry average actualy dropped. The figure was pegged at 864 in 2007. The decline, it was explained was because some vehicles fell short of the customer’s technology expectations.
The Total Quality Index score that is presented on the report was calculated from the responses of 20,655 buyers who bought 2008 models in September, October and November of 2007. Strategic Vision has been presenting the survey results annually since 1995.
Toyota Car |Toyota Yari: Top Small Car
According to Strategic Vision’s survey and research, the Yari tops the small car segment. On the said survey, this small car from Toyota got 860 points out of the possible 1000 points. Following the Yari in the ranking of small cars is the Honda Civic that managed to get 853 points. Hyundai Elantra, Ford Focus Sedan and the Honda Fit rounded the Top 5. The segment average is 835 points. The car is an Ultra Low Emission Vehicle and features an electronic, with the Toyota Direct Ignition. The Yari is available in four trims; the Liftback, the Liftback S, the Sedan and the Sedan S.
Scion Car | Scion xB: Best Small Multi-function
The Scion xB is a Toyota product sold under the youthful Scion brand and this car was adjudged as the best small multi-function vehicle based on the survey conducted by Strategic Vision. The vehicle scored 876 points out of the possible 1000 points and it bested the Volkswagen Rabbit and the Chevrolet HHR. Industry average for the multi-function segment stands at 837. The second generation of the xB was unveiled at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show and this new xB was more rounded in shape than the old one. The second generation of the xB is powered by the 2.4L engine that’s shared with the tC and the Toyota Camry. Same with the 2006 model, the second generation xB comes with standard features like the VSC and the ABS. Six air bags come as a standard as wellVW Car | VW Jetta: Best Medium Car
The Volkswagen Jetta scored 911 based on the survey and research conducted by Strategic Vision. And that score is more than enough to top its segment, topping equally high-scoring Chevrolet Malibu and Ford Fusion. The Chevrolet Malibu scored 899 and the Fusion scored 874 way over the industry segment average pegged at 861 points.
The Volkswagen Jetta has been in production since 1979 and this is essentially the saloon or the sedan version of the compact car Volkswagen Golf. Since its introduction in 1979, the Jetta has been available in five generations. The fifth generation of the Jetta was first shown at the Los Angeles Auto Show on January 5, 2005. This was just the second time that a VW product has debuted on an American auto show, the first time was with the New Beetle. The fifth generation Jetta uses extensive high strength steel and the use of the laser welding is up from 5 percent to 35 percent of the body parts. Aside from the use of high strength steel for the body and laser welding for some of the parts, the Jetta also features an impact-absorbing front bumper that yields slightly in an event of a collision, thus reduces the chance of injury. The safety enhancement on the new Jetta doesn’t end on the fitting of a tough front bumper. The fifth generation Jetta also features the Electronic Stability Program with Anti-Slip Regulation and the Brake Assist and the active head restraints. Added innovations on the Jetta are the DSG transmission, available dual-zone automatic climate control and the electro-mechanical steering. Because of a number of safety innovations on the new Jetta, the car managed to get high ratings in crash tests conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The new Jetta also sports a redesigned electrical system. Engines used on the car may vary from by location. For example, European car consumers can expect a range of new FSI engines. For American market, the Jetta will be powered by the 2.5 liter 5-cylinder 20 Valve engine in most trims.
The newest Jetta in the market, the 2009 Volkswagen Jetta is also a winner. It was reported that the car post respectable fuel efficiency marks. The EPA’s new fuel economy rating for the car suggest 30 mpg in the city and 41 on the highway for the 2.0 liter four-cylinder turbo diesel engine with a six-speed manual transmission. But others view this development as a disappointment. After all, the company already estimated that the Jetta will get 40/60 mpg.
Volvo Car | Volvo C30 T5 1.0 Hatchback
This vehicle tops the small specialty vehicle under $25,000.00 segment. The C30 got 904 points just enough to move it past Ford Mustang Coupe and the Volkswagen GTI. The result was provided for by Strategic Vision as part of their yearly research that dated back to 1995. This hatch version of the C30 is offered in two versions; the 1.0 and the 2.0. the i.0 version of the C30 hatch is a well-equipped base model, while the 2.0 version of the hatch feature more unique styling accents like the 3.5 inch exhaust tips, a color coordinated exterior trim, aluminum dash inlays and the premium Pro-Logic II sound.
Just like any other Volvo vehicles, the C30 is crafted and designed with safety in mind. Its focus on safety can be seen on efforts by the brand to develop safety features that includes a method of overcoming the blind spots or dead areas in the driver’s view to the rear through a system that’s introduced by Volvo. This technology is known as the BLIS or the Blind Spot Information System. The C30 also includes the four-wheel anti-lock braking system ABS, the electronic stability, traction control and the airbags for that all around side impact and roll over protection. The vehicle also boasts the patented front and rear structure using four different grades of steel so as to absorb and then redistribute the impact energy around the body of the vehicle. Standard on the C30 are the Whiplash Protection System and the Side Impact Protection System with side air bags and the Inflatable Curtain. Seat belts will feature pretensioners so as to protect the occupants against unexpected accidents. The C30 also has the Volvo Intelligent Driver Information System or the IDIS.
BMW Car | Safety Assist: Automatic Collision Notification
We all know how important the BMW Safety Assist. Now it’s time to take a look at one of the underlying technology that makes the BMW Safety Assist works. After the MyInfo service that comes with every safety assist, there is also the Automatic Collision Notification feature. So how does this technology works? This features comes in handy during accidents and emergency situations. To be more precise, it begins its help the moment the air bags have been initiated or when severe impacts do happen on the road. When any of these two happen, signal will be sent to the BMW Assist Response Center. Now at the center, Assist Response Specialist will then receive information about your car and will attempt to speak to you or the other passenger of the car. If the event has been grave and you cannot speak, the Response Center can direct the appropriate emergency services to your location.
BMW Car |Understanding Car Depreciation
Sold for one tenth of the car’s original price! A bit extreme but it can happen, don’t you think? This is your car’s hidden value that you will only realize once you decide to sell it. Car depreciation is a fact of automotive life that you should be aware of, that is if you want to get the best value and benefit from your car. Depreciation is known as the decrease in your car’s value over time. Usually the measure is used as a percentage of the value of the car after three years, or after 36,000 miles. There are a number of studies done to find what cars depreciates fast, and which cars depreciate less over time. One thing stands clear though, that car depreciation is a fact of life and that drivers and car consumers should accept this bitter fact. Just because this is given, doesn’t mean that there is no escape from depreciation. In fact there is; there is a way to lessen the impact of car depreciation. That’s by being well-informed and by making the right decisions at the right time. So I checked on some articles that mentioned car depreciation, and one car that is mentioned that can least depreciate over a span of three years is the Mini. At least in UK, there is a survey that was conducted that indicated that Mini is the car that depreciates the least. An article on MSN.com also listed the ten car models that fight depreciation best. The article listed the BMW M5, the Mercedes-Benz SLK 200K, the Jaguar XK, the Range Rover Sport 2.7 TDV6 S, the Audi TT, the Mini Convertible, the Audi Q7 TDI S Line, the Alfa Romeo Brera 3.2 Q4 SV, the Audi A4 Cabriolet 2.0 TDI S Line and the Volvo C70 2.4i Sport as the ten cars that resist car depreciation the best.
Often the cars that least depreciate over time are that cars that are rare and are top on their classes. Most of the time, the fuel used will be a factor as well due to the sky rocketing prices of petrol. It is also noted that expensive cars from the manufacturers that has no background of making luxury cars tend to lose their value fast. In the end, smart selection of cars is a must. And a number of tips are available around, just waiting to be learned.
BMW Car |Holy Car Smoke Batman! Nice Car!
For the next Batman flick, expect to see Bruce Wayne park a good-looking Lamborghini on the streets. That aside from using the Batmobile to cruise Gotham City, Batman’s alter ego Bruce Wayne will be using the Lamborghini car, specifically the Lamborghini LP 640. That ultra-sexy Lamborghini sports car is just perfect for the persona of Bruce Wayne. This Lamborghini that will be featured on the new Batman flick, The Dark Knight will deliver the performance Batman will surely love. The sports car has a V12 engine that can deliver 640 horsepower and can reach top speed of more than 200 miles per hour.
The President and the CEO for Automobil Lamborghini says that the Lamborghini Murcielago LP 640 is just the perfect partner for Bruce Wayne. It seems like a natural choice, the CEO added. He sadi that Lamborghini is proud to be associated with one of the greatest movie franchises in history. This isn’t the first time that a Lamborghini has graced a Batman film. Batman enthusiasts and fanatics will also remember the Murcielago Roadster that appeared at the 2005 edition of Batman.
The movie, The Dark Knight is set to be released this July 2008. This American superhero film is based on a DC comics character, Batman. The Dark Knight that still stars Christian Bale is a sequel to the 2005 hit movie, Batman Begins. With Christian Bale reprising his role as Batman and Bruce Wayne, and Chris Nolan returning as the director, fans can surely expect the same amount of intelligent action the movie. Batman’s nemesis in the film will be the Joker that’s played by Heath Ledger and the movie will also dwell on the strained friendship he has with the district attorney played by Aaron Eckhart. The movie was primarily filmed in Chicago as well as in other locations in the United States, the United Kingdom and Hongkong. IMAX technology was used by the director to film four major action sequences, including the very first time that Joker appeared in the movie. Batman’s Batsuit was redesigned with a cowl that can allow Bale to move his head. A Batpod was also introduced in this movie, a recreation of the Batcycle.
The movie opens with the batman, James Gordon and the new district attorney beginning to succeed in rounding up the criminals in the city. Then they are unexpectedly been challenged by a mysterious criminal mastermind known as Joker. Batman’s struggle with the Joker is more than physical, it has become personal as well forcing him to confront everything he believes. During the course of the film, a love triangle develops between Bruce Wayne, Dent and Rachel Dawes.
Mercedes Benz Car | Infiniti G35: A Blend of Sportiness and Luxury
Luxury-wise, Infiniti is one brand that should not be dismissed outright. Infiniti yet again flexes its muscle in the upscale sedan segment. This is the second time that the Infiniti G35 managed to top its segment, the first time in 2007.
One of the highest-rated sedans we’ve tested, the G35 succesfully blends sportiness and luxury to offer an inviting overall package, says Consumer Reports.
In terms of safety, the Infiniti G35 is well-equipped with functional and helpful features. For example, the G35 is equipped with the Advanced Air Bag System. This system includes dual-stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and the occupant-classification sensor that can adjust their inflation rate depending on crash severity and seat belt usage.
The G35 that is available now in the market is available in two-door or four door sedan. The two-door or the coupe in available in one trim while the sedan is available in five trims- the base, Journey x AWD, Sport and Sport 6 MT. The sedan version of the G35 was redesigned in 2007. Both the coupe and the sedan are equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine. Power on the V6-powered sedan can reach up to 306 horsepower while the coupe that is equipped with the standard five-speed automatic can net 275 horsepower. All the five sedan trims are equipped with a five-speed automatic, except the Sport 6MT that features a six-speed manual.
Other than these standard specs and features, the G35 is packed with other safety features as well that can be checked here.
Nissan Car | Get to Know the Nissan Skyline
A quick scan of the blog stats reveals that a lot search for the Nissan Skyline, one of my dream cars. I just love the look and the performance of this car, love it the very first time I saw this car on the 2 fast, 2 Furious movie that stars Paul Walker. The Skyline that was used on the movie was actually an R-34. The first one that was driven by Paul Walker on the movie was the Nissan Skyline GT-R BNR34 in aqua metallic. The next one is the 2003 House of Kolors Platinum Pearl with Blue Nissan Skyline GT-R BNR34.The Skyline GT-R from Nissan is actually a Japanese sports coupe’ based from the original Nissan Skyline. The GT-R V spec model and the GT-BNR34 Skyline GT-R that was used on the movie was made shorter and the front wheels were made closer to the front if to be compared with the earlier generations of the Skyline. The new feature on the R-34 GT-R is the 5.8″ LCD multi-function display on the center of the dashboard that shows seven different live readings of engine and vehicle statistics such as the turbo charger pressure, and oil and water temperatures. The GT-R V-spec model on the other hand has two added features on the screen- the intake and the exhaust gas temperatures. Nismo Multi-function Displays or the MFD included the lateral G meter, a lap timer and an increase in boost pressure measurement to 2 bar. It come equipped with the ATTESA E-TS Pro system and an Active LSD at the rear and the standard GT-R on the other hand come with the non-Pro system and a conventional mechanical differential.
Nissan Car | Nissan GT-R Update
Based on some initial tests, the soon-to-be released GT-R from Nissan was considered as among the fastest ever productions cars at the Ring. That feat was announced by Nissan last month after the supercar has achieved 7 minutes and 29 seconds at the Nurburgring in Germany. This strip is also known as the Ring. The feat by Nissan GT-R was achieved last April 16 and 17. The GT-R used for testing was a base specification car and then fitted with the standard Japanese market tyres. The test drive was initiated by chief test driver Tochio Suzuki. The lap time netted by the new GT-R easily edged out the previous fastest time for the GT-R by nine seconds. The previous lap time was also made possible by Suzuki.
The all-new GT-R has been delivered in Japan that started in December 2007. Sales in other countries like in US and Canada start in July and will extend to Europe and other markets in the span of 12 months.
Honda | Hydrogen Car is Here
That’s the Honda FCX Clarity and production starts this week.
What makes the Honda Clarity a complete stand out in the field is the fact that it uses a fuel cell, and its streamlined layout that is made possible by the compact layout and the car’s efficient powertrain components. The car works and power itselfs by combining hydrogen with oxygen to make electricity. This electrical output is the one that powers the electrical motor and the one that pushes the Clarity to run on the road. The Clarity is emission-free as its only waste is water. The operation of the FCX is basically anchored on five steps. The Hydrogen tank is where the hydrogen is stored, there is the V Flow fuel cell stack that generates the electricity, the Lithium-ion battery that stores the electricity, the Power Drive Unit that manages the electrical flow and the electric drive motor that runs the Clarity.
The Hydrogen tank on board the Clarity is the place where Hydrogen is stored. The V Flow produces the electricity for the vehicle. It combines the hydrogen with oxygen from air and this results in the creation of the electricity. That electricity is the one that powers the motor and runs the vehicle. The fuel cell on board the car is made from thin electrolyte film that is wedged in betwen the two electrode layers in betweeb two separators. Hundred layers of these cells are then connected in series. So how does this works. The Hydrogen will be delivered into an anoded of the fuel cell. The Hydrogen molecules are then divided into electrons and protons thur the use of a catalyst. The electrons are then channeled through the circuit in order to produce electricity. The protons on the other hand pass thrugh a polymer electrolyte membrane. The oxygen enters the cathode and combines with electrons and protons to form water. In the end of the reaction, water vapor and heat are released. The Lithium-ion battery is a supplemental power source on the Clarity. This effectively replaces the ultra-capacitor from earlier FCX models. This is a small battery that cna fit underneath the rear seat. The compact electric motor that serves the Clarity is a small and powerful motor. The motor traces its roots to the one that’s developed by Honda for the EV PLus electric vehicle. Low noise and high efficiency; things that can be delivered by this motor for the Clarity. The Power Drive Unit or the PDU manages the electrical power produced by the car. This is compact and high performing as well. Innovation marks the new powertrain of the FCX Clarity. With its design and layout, the powertrain of the vehicle has become garceful.
Honda | Honda FCX Clarity Too Pricey?
Honda Motor Co. President Taeko Fukui admits that indeed the new Clarity is a bit pricey and he believes that this fuel cell car is in need of further reduction in terms of cost so that the vehicle can get a wider market acceptance. It is acknowledged that the low number of service stations that can serve these fuel cell vehicles can limit the proudction and in effect increase production costs.
Clarity’s Lease Program
Honda initiated the lease program for the Clarity and it is acknowledged as the world’s first retail initiative for fuel cell-run vehicles. The lease term for the Clarity runs for 36 months and it is expected that the customers will shell out around $600.00. That payment should include free maintennace and collision insurance.
BMW Car | Shape-Changing Concept by BMW
Calling Batman.
Is it possible to change the shape of your car, by just a simple touch of a button? For BMW, that can happen in the future, and in fact the company is working on a concept that can allow the BMW driver to change the looks of the car’s exterior and body just by a touch of a button. BMW’s GINA Light Vision Visionary Model actually tries to do that. This concept is actually a two-seater concept car that wears a flexible and virtually seamless skin that is made of a textile fabric and then stretched over a metal wire structure enforced with carbon fiber. This would then give the driver with the flexibility to change the shape of the car from within and without.
The near-seamless, stretchable fabric that can contort into different shapes is water-proof and temperature-resistant. This special fabric is draped over a high-strength metal wire structure that features a series of carbon fiber and steel mesh in different locations. The appearance of the cars can be changed by means of switches. Take the car’s headlights. The headlights will remain hidden until the driver switch it on. If the engine of the concept car needs to be accessed, then the bonnet can be unzipped down the middle to create a half-meter-wide gap. Not all body changes need to be started by a switch. Some are automatic. For an improved aerodynamics at higher speeds, the roadster concept will generate extra downforce by deploying a rear spoiler. The concept was based on one principle, that’s to display only the functions that are relevant to the driver’s present driving situation.
Though the pictures of the concept has just been released, this concept car dates back to 2001. It has been reported as well that the GINA concept uses the platform of the Z8 roadster, the ones that were last sold in 2003. The designers of the concept calls the car a concept car behind a concept, and calls the car an object of research. GINA stands for Geometry and Functions in N Adaptions.
But this BMW GINA won’t be coming to the showrooms near you just yet. But its maker hopes that the design will rub off on some of BMW’s future models. If you would like to see the GINA personally, then you can visit the car at the BMW museum in Munich, Germany.
Mercedes Benz Car | What’s Driving Our Billionaire$$?
If money is not a problem, what would you drive? If money is not an issue, what cars will you collect? Interesting questions is’nt it? Make you wanna stop your task for a while and dream on. Dreaming is free, and let me tell you the products of my dreams. Mercedes sports coupe’ always get me excited, Lexus sports coupe’ as well. Count an Eclipse, and throw in a tough pick-up of GM okay, make it a Silverado. Actually my list goes go and on for a while, in fact I am losing the focus of my content for the day! Okay, lets shift our attention to my current fixation. What’s driving our billionaires or should I say, what are they driving?
I asked this question since I come across an article on msn.com that deals with the cars of the rich. The article talks about what cars are most popular for the country’s rich, and what does it means if one person acquires a particular brand/model.
Take the case of billionaire Stephen Wynn, known for his high-end hotels like the Wynn Las Vegas. Wynn bought his wife a blue 2007 Ferrari F430 Spyder when they toured Ferrari’s facility in Milan. Aside from this model, Mrs Wynn also drives a Bently Arnage and a Jeep Grand Cherooke.
Another personality that spends so much for his car is real estate magnate Donald Trump. Trump likes Phantoms and Ferraris as well. He also drives a rare super car, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. The SLR McLaren should look like this.
This car combines that style and the luxury that is reserved for Mercedes Benz, and the brawn and power known to McLaren. This model of Mercedes Benz features a full carbon-fiber monocoque, crash structures and body panels and this mdoel is powered by a 617 horsepower supercharged 5.5 Liter V8 engine. This engine can send the SLR from zero to 60 miles per hour in 3.8 seconds. Top speed of the SLR may top 200 miles per hour. Another thing that makes the SLR McLaren impressive is the fact that this car features a high level of protection for its occupants. Perhaps this is a carry-over from the fact that Formula 1 Racing is such a dangerous sport, so vehicle safety comes first. This SLR is the first series production vehicle to incorporate a front crash structure that is made exclusively from carbon. Carbon composite material as we know by now can provide rigidity and strength. This kind of material and engineering can absorb four to five times more energy in a severe frontal collison or impact on the road if comapred with other materials, like conventional steel.
Another cool collector is Ralph Lauren, the name behind Polo. His collections include a 1929 Blower Bentley, 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing Coupe, 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, 1996 McLaren F1 and the 2007 Bugatti Veyron. His collection is cool and respectable, ( who am I kidding?) impressive to say the least.
Money for these people allows them to splurge not just on things that they fancy, but on things that reflect their own personalities as well. Lucky them! And for us ordinary mortals, what we can do is to dream and drool.
Mercedes Benz Car | McLaren+Mercedes Benz= A Legend.
Donald Trump owns one. I’m dreaming of one. That’s how rare and special this Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is. Okay, my intro is lame.Haha. Now back to this amazing car coming from Mercedes-Benz.
This collaboration coming from a known and respected car manufacturer and an equally-reknowned racing participant has produced a top super car. From the engine, to the looks and to the overall construction and materials used- this super car is a league in itself.
The SLR Mclaren is classified as as sports car and this model is compared to the Porsche Carrera GT and the Enzo Ferrari. But thanks to the ride’s automatic gearbox, the front mid-engined arrangement and its driving characteristics, this car is often classified as a Super GT just like the Aston Martin V12 vanquish and the Ferrari 599 GTB. To further underscore the superioriority of the car, this Super GT is considered as the fastest automatic transmission car in the world.
So what makes the SLR different from the other cars out there? The difference lies in its engine, the construction and its engineering. At the center of the performance of the SLR is a 232 kilogram hand built, 5.4 liter supercharged all-aluminum SOHC V8 engine. With regards to the performance of the SLR, actual figures may vary, but is performance is rock-solid. This model can zoom from 0 to 100 km/h in about 3.1 seconds, from 0 to 200 km/h in 9.5 seconds and can race to 300 km/h in roughly 24.4 seconds. The car’s top speed of 360 km/h is nothing to sneeze at. Such power is well complimented by the presence of ultra-stylish and sporty looks and design that could make the SLR a stand-out in any gathering.
For 2006 a new version was introduced in the market, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 722 Edition. The magic number 722 actually refers to the victory by Stirling Moss and Denis Jenkinson in a Mercedes-Benz SLR 300 with a starting number of 722 at the Mille Miglia in 1955. This is a better version of the SLR and this can race to 100 km/h in just 2.8 seconds! A tuned version of the 722 is also available, the 722 GT.
VW Car| VW Releases More Photos of the 2009 Passat CC...VW's New Four-Door Coupe
VW has released more photos and details on its upcoming 2009 Passat CC four-door coupe. The "coupe" was unveiled this January in Detroit. There are rumors that VW may be dropping the "Passat" name for the coupe and just going with "CC". On the VW U.S. website it is only titled as the "CC".
Either way the new VW four-door coupe will hit showrooms this fall.
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2009 VW Passat CC is Going to Start Below $27,000
Detroit 2008: 2009 VW Passat CC Unveiled...VW's Answer to the Mercedes CLS
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