Saturday, August 8, 2009

Mercedes Benz M-Class Review


The new Mercedes Benz M-Class arrived in the showrooms towards the end of last year, having undergone a minor facelift and a few additions to the standard feature list.
Most people who are thinking of buying a Mercedes Benz ML will not fail to be impressed by the sheer size of the car and array of on-board electronics, some of which take some getting used to and time spent with the handbook will be well spent.

But let's start with the Mercedes Benz M-Class' exterior changes. There is no mistaking that it is a Mercedes, with its larger new grille dominating the front end, above a re-styled front bumper with a new, simulated skid plate or under-guard. The headlight clusters now feature projection beams and at the rear, the taillights have a smoked glass appearance.

The Mercedes Benz ML 280 CDI Sport test car was in Obsidian Black, which together with the dark privacy glass from the B-pillar back, certainly made it an imposing vehicle on the road. This was further emphasised by the wide stance and huge, 20-inch wheels. These are new, as are the 18-inch on the V6 SE and 19-inch on the V8 SE models, which look good on the road but anyone venturing off-road on a regular basis, would need to invest in different tyres. That said, there is an optional Off Road Pro package that adds differential locks, ground clearance adjustment and a low-range transfer box - but no mention of tyres.

The Mercedes Benz ML's rear end also has an under-guard and along the side are running boards, in an aluminium finish with rubber studs, which I could have happily lived without. They are awkward to use as an aid to getting in or out so you end up stepping over them and that generally resulted in banging my head on the cant rail, as I like to sit high and upright, making the most of the already high seating position

The Mercedes Benz S-Class Awarded Best Luxury Car


The Mercedes Benz S-Class has been crowned Best Luxury Car at the prestigious Auto Express New Car Awards for the fourth consecutive year.
Editor in Chief, David Johns said: "Mercedes Benz redefined what we expect from the luxury car class with the S-Class, it still stands out like a beacon four years after its launch…the outstanding quality, effortless performance and superb refinement of the S-Class just couldn't be matched by its rivals, old or new."

Since the launch in 2006 the flagship model has continued to dominate sales in the luxury car segment with class leading innovative technology and the highest levels of comfort and style.

Dermot Kelly, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Cars said: "It is fantastic to receive this accolade from Auto Express again this year. We are delighted that the S-Class has been awarded the Best Luxury Car title every year since we introduced the current car to the UK market, and it is going to get even better."

Later this year the new-generation Mercedes Benz S-Class will arrive in the UK, and, will of course feature even more safety and technological enhancements, along with improved performance and efficiency. The combined fuel consumption of the Mercedes Benz S 350 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY is now 37.2 mpg, an improvement of 9% and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 21% to just 199 g/km. Standard equipment will now include Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Attention Assist while an enhanced version of Night View Assist Plus with pedestrian recognition, Blind Spot Assist and Lane Keeping Assist will all be optionally available.

The interior of the new Mercedes Benz S-Class will boast class leading technology in the form of a new SPLITVIEW screen. The screen enables the driver and front passenger to view different content on the same screen, at the same time. The driver can see the navigation information while the passenger can watch a movie. When activated the pixels facing towards the driver are used for the driver's image and the pixels oriented towards

Monday, August 3, 2009

2010 Nissan



Introduction\
art of what makes the Cube so unique is that it is a box, but at the same time incredibly round. But what really separates the Cube from the pack is its asymmetrical design. Nissan representatives won’t say for sure, but they believe the Cube is the only car in the world where the left and right sides aren’t identical.

The difference isn’t at first obvious, but it’s actually a major part of the car. Look back towards the rear and you’ll see the driver’s side rear pillar is a typical painted piece of bodywork, while on the passenger side the pillar is actually “invisible.” It’s covered by glass, giving a unique wrap-around look to the windows.

The rear of the car actually swings open to the side like a fridge, rather than opening upwards. That might not be ideal for some as the big door can be a little cumbersome. It does open in two stages though, with an initial 20-inch opening as well as the full range. Besides, the swinging door is really the only option as the car is actually too short (at just 65-inches) to clear most heads.

With practicality in mind, Nissan designed the Cube so that the door swings away from the curb. Right hand-drive models sold in Japan and the U.K. actually open the opposite way and feature a reverse desig

2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T



it’s been a long wait for fans of affordable and fun-to-drive rear-wheel drive machines with Japanese build quality and style. But thanks to Korean superpower Hyundai, the wait is over in the form of the Genesis Coupe 2.0T, a machine clearly built for young (and young at heart) automotive enthusiasts with a passion for technologies commonly associated with the ‘sport compact’ segment, like turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, nimble handling, sporty styling and a sub $30,000 price tag. The 2010 Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T ticks off all those boxes and more, making it what’s likely to be an instant classic among the hardcore enthusiast and tuner crowds.

FAST FACTS
1. As the name suggests, the Genesis Coupe 2.0T is powered by a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cyl with 210 hp and 223 ft-lbs of torque.

2. All Genesis Coupe models are rear-wheel drive and come standard with a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission.GO-FAST APPEAL

The fact that Hyundai has provided a selection of press photos that include images of the car drifting or power sliding and the fact that the company’s corporate website shows the car being thrashed on a race track should tell you a lot about who their target market is with the Genesis Coupe 2.0T. Think 18 to 35 year old males who follow the FormulaDRIFT racing series and want to have a little drifting or track day fun of their own.

Similarly, by equipping the Genesis coupe with a 2-liter turbocharged and intercooled inline-4 cylinder engine (sharing the same GEMA World Engine architecture as the engine found in the 291 horsepower Mitsubishi Evolution X), Hyundai is clearly trying to appeal to the ‘tuner’ crowd made up of hands-on owners who like to find ways of turning up the boost pressure for a little extra power.

Further indicating the Genesis Coupe 2.0T’s hardcore performance orientation is the availability of a Track model that’s equipped with a Torsen limited slip differential, big Brembo brakes front and rear, and suspension tuning including stiffer front and rear spring rates, larger diameter front and rear anti-sway bars and more aggressive shock valving.

3. Pricing is just $22,000 to start.

4. A Track model gets Brembo brakes, a stiffer suspension and a limited slip differential.

5. Can also be had in a 3.8-liter 306 horsepower V6 version.
GO-FAST APPEAL

2010 Kia Forte: First Drive


A FRESH NEW CAR WITH A FRESH NEW DESIGN

By all accounts the Forte has a clean European design to it, with a side profile that barely has any lines all – just nice smooth sheet metal coated in a surprisingly high quality paint. My tester came with a metallic brown (which Kia calls bronze) coating. I know what you’re thinking. “Brown? Yuck!” But it’s actually very nice – especially in the sun.

I won’t be the first, or the last, to accuse Kia of lifting the design of the Forte’s headlights directly from the Honda/Acura parts bin. In a way it’s a compliment. The rest of the front end looks great too with Kia’s new corporate grille adding just the right amount of chrome around a gaping black grille. Below there’s a three part intake setup that adds to the car’s sporty flare.
MOST POWERFUL STANDARD ENGINE IN ITS CLASS

Those TV spots for the Forte do give you one piece of info about the car – the price. Base LX models start at $13,695 ($15,695 CDN), but you’re much more likely to find yourself in an EX for $15,795 ($17,995 CDN). Those who want a little extra performance can also opt for the SX model. But we’ll get to that later.

The price on the base LX model sounds great, but without any power options or even AC it’s not a very attractive package. The EX, however, comes well-equipped and when you add an auto tranny and the optional Premium Package that includes a sunroof as well as 16-inch wheels and tires, the damage is an acceptable $17,595.

2009 Audi A8 Review



Introduction
The Audi A8 is a big luxury sedan designed to challenge the BMW 7 Series and Mercedes-Benz S-Class. In beats them in some areas and in others it offers an individualistic alternative. It many respects, the Audi A8 raised the bar for performance.

Three versions are available. The standard A8 boasts instant throttle response from its powerful 4.2-liter V8 and six-speed automatic transmission, while quattro all-wheel drive and an adaptable air suspension provide an excellent balance between handling and ride quality. The A8 offers a supreme sense of control with Gibraltar-like stability, benefits of its lightweight, Aluminum Space Frame that bonds the car into one cohesive unit.

The cabin is elegant and comfortable, and tops the class in finish quality. Audi's Multi-Media Interface, or MMI, integrates controls for various features and electronic systems into a big knob. It's a little easier to learn than BMW's iDrive, but it isn't easy. There is a learning curve and sometimes we find ourselves having to work harder to perform simple functions and wonder whether this is progress or burdensome technology.The A8 L rides on a stretched wheelbase that provides more room and comfort for rear-seat passengers and uses the same engine as the A8.

The A8 L W12 upgrades to a 12-cylinder engine and a whopping 450 horsepower. It's the only 12-cylinder sedan from Germany's big three luxury brands with all-wheel drive.

The Audi S8 is powered by a 5.2-liter V10 and comes with a firmer suspension, faster steering, and bigger brakes. The S8 is distinguished by special trim and equipment inside and out. The S8 is perfect for triple digit speeds on wide-open highways and would be an excellent choice for a cross-country race. It's also a good selection for getting away from enemy agents, for those in that line of work, particularly in bad weather. For driving through the neighborhood or in stop-and-go traffic, however, we found it suffers from an overly sensitive throttle that makes smooth takeoffs a bit too challengin

Saturday, July 25, 2009

japanes luxury car


What do wealthy Japanese consider as the world's best luxury cars?

Hint: It's not highly regarded Japanese-produced Acuras, Infinitis or even Lexuses.

It's Mercedes-Benz, followed by Porsche and finally Lexus. Seems odd that German luxury cars would hold sway in a land where the domestically produced choices are known to offer so much in reliability and exacting quality. But it's not a surprise to Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute, which conducted the online survey that looked at attitudes toward 20 car brands among Japanese households with annual income more than $525,000.

"The Japanese, from what we know, revere European brands," Pedraza says. The love Toyota, too, but see it as an everyday mainstream brand, just as it is here in the U.S., and know that Lexus is its upscale brand. As such, it doesn't receive as much respect as the Germans in the survey. "They know too much," Pedraza says. "Even in the U.S., Toyota has ... the best quality, the best service, but not the most cache."

As for Porsche. Well, it's a Porsche. It's unlike anything produced in Japan, right up from the blissful but ever-present engine noise.

Their love of foreign brands isn't limited to cars. In fact, no other Japanese products made the list of the top three in any category when it came to men's and women's apparel, shoes and accessories. Instead, the list was dominated by names like Hermes, Chanel and Giorgio Armani.

Photo of Mercedes SL600 covered in crystal on display at the Sogo department store in Osaka, Japan

Most Reliable Luxury Cars 2007


Over the years, we have heard a lot of gripes about unreliable luxury cars.

Lamborghini’s LM002 “had the durability of a potato chip,” one car-industry analyst remarked. Your typical Land Rover, one reader wrote, is “as reliable as a drunken house painter.”

And there are entire Web sites dedicated to jokes about Lucas, the company which used to supply mediocre electrical components to Jaguar, giving the automaker’s build quality a miserable reputation that has endured for decades (“Q. Why do the English drink warm beers? A. Because they have Lucas refrigerators”).

In other words, if you buy a luxury car, don’t expect it to be trouble-free.
In Pictures: 2007’s Most Reliable Luxury Cars

But some brands, particularly Japanese luxury automakers, are known for immaculate manufacturing. At the start of this year, half of the market’s 16 most-reliable luxury cars -- the models which earn Consumer Reports’ highest marks for predicted reliability and/or J.D. Power’s highest marks for manufacturing quality -- were Japanese, including Toyota Motor's (nyse: TM - news - people ) $61,000 Lexus LS flagship sedan, which the carmaker just overhauled.

Dependable Drive
The new LS is the fourth generation of the car since Lexus introduced the line in 1989, and it has garnered more awards for quality than any other luxury car, says Lexus. It has also won J.D. Power's Vehicle Dependability Index study every year it has been eligible.

Lexus builds five of the 16 most-reliable luxury cars. Its slogan used to be "the relentless pursuit of perfection," and it wasn't just lip service.

While the company has world-renowned manufacturing methods, "the pursuit of perfection" is implanted so vigorously into Toyota's corporate culture that Lexus engineers its trademark reliability into cars before they ever hit the factories. The company’s designers and engineers have mastered the science behind the creation of reliable vehicles, and they don’t need to wait to see how their technology and engineering will hold up on the actual cars, at least not to the extent that other manufacturers do (to test things out, other automakers need to build more pre-production prototypes than Lexus does).

Increasing Competition
Given Toyota’s merits, we were surprised to find that several other luxury cars compare favorably with Lexus’ models, despite being issued by companies that are hardly Toyota-like.

DaimlerChrysler's (nyse: DCX - news - people ) Mercedes-Benz subsidiary, for example, has had reliability issues resulting in massive recalls and dreadful Consumer Reports ratings. However, J.D. Power has given two of the carmaker’s vehicles (the SL and SLK convertibles) its highest marks for manufacturing quality. Power reports that SL and SLK owners, within 90 days of taking delivery of their new cars, are seeing very few problems with features, accessories, interior components and body quality. Could Mercedes finally be tackling its quality-control issues?

We’re asking the same question of other German cars this year. In general, they are known for having technology that is prone to failure because of its complexity. Yet we were surprised to see cars by Mercedes, BMW and Porsche on our list this year.

The Findings
Our list is made of new-model cars. A car is on our list if it has the highest marks for reliability from Consumer Reports and/or J.D. Power. Both use one-to-five scales for evaluating quality and reliability. A “top marks” indicates a “five” from Power or Consumer Reports, or both. The vast majority of luxury cars are not on our list.

What’s more, not every luxury car has reliability ratings. If a car was new or overhauled for calendar-year 2006, don’t expect to see it here. For example, Consumer Reports has not issued reliability predictions for Cadillac’s Escalade and Acura’s MDX, two SUVs that were overhauled last year. New cars like these need to be on the market longer in order for customers to report problems the vehicles may be having. And such blue-blooded cars as Maybach and Bentley models tend not to have reliability ratings from Power and Consumer Reports because the vehicles’ volumes are too low to make for effective studies.

Power bases its overall manufacturing quality score on “problems that have caused a complete breakdown or malfunction of any component, feature, or item--i.e., components that stop working or trim pieces that break or come loose.” Both Power and Consumer Reports base their quality and reliability ratings on owner responses to their surveys. Consumer Reports asks owners if they have had trouble with their cars’ engines, electrical systems, paint, audio systems and other components.

Rest assured, it’s possible to find luxury and reliability in one vehicle. And that’s no joke.

1995 Toyota Tercel



The 1995 model of the Toyota Tercel has been greatly enhanced and upgraded from previous versions especially with respect to safety and engine performance and fuel efficiency. The interior and exterior have been changed to give a more sporty image and improved cabin visability, space and ergonomics. The materials used in the fit and finish are newer lighter products which improve handling and are cheaper and easier to repair and recycle.

The range comprises a front wheel drive two door coupe, and a two and four door DX model with automatic and manual transmissions for each model. Here we look at the four door DX with a range of options
The dimensions remain the same as previous models but the 1995 Tercel has a redesigned outside featuring aerodynamic styling, a sloping hood, smooth countours and moulding for the pillars giving a much more softer and rounded feel. As a consequence wind resistance and noise are decreased and fuel efficiency is improved.

In terms of safety features the body and frame have been developed to protect the passangers with energy absorbing crumple zones and reinforced doors. Extra insulation inside on the floor and inside some cavities further reduces noise, while the exterior is made from anticorrosion sheet steel and chip resistant paint.

The Tercel 1995 model has a new engine which is 1.5 liter 4 cylinder with electronic fuel injection for increased power and reduced exhaust emissions. Other new features are a new fully electronic adjustment free ignition system that does away with the need for a distributor. An onboard computer performs diagnostics and helps mechanics locate and repair problems.

The suspension remains largely unchanged from the 1994 Tercel but it has been tuned for a better ride. Springs and shock absorber valves have been redesigned and give much better performance.
Interior Features

Inside the cabin there is generous headroom for front and back passengers as well as many new improved things which provide a more comfortable environment than the previous model.

Fully carpeted throughout and covered with comfortable fabric the seats and floor are pleasing to look at and use on the DX model although the base Tercel comes with slightly cheaper looking and feeling vinyl coverings. The seat belts on the four door model are adjustable and the doors are equiped with child protection locks.0

The outside mirrors are remote controlled but the system is slightly weaker than needed and somewhat difficult to adjust precisely. All models have a recessed cupholder and a full center console with storage for cassettes and CDs.

Storage space is located throughout in a range of small but well designed spaces. Map pockets are conviently located on the doors and a fairly large space between the front seats holds a range of items. There is also a small unit on the dash next to the wheel and a recessed space on top.

At the rear there is a 9.3 cubic foot storage space which can be extended on the DX models optional 60/40 fold down split rear seats. However access is somewhat hindered by the angle of the rear

Review Toyota RAV4 2003


Overview

Toyota's RAV4 is a stylish, useful, durable and reliable car. It's got good road handling, and it comfortable for town driving.

Toyota has redesigned the 2001 RAV4 making it better looking than previous models.

For 2003, the RAV4 has a Sport Package with features such as air conditioning, power windows and mirrors and six-speaker stereo.Walkaround

The 2003 style update to the RAV4 is more striking and bullish than the cutesy original 2001 models.

The wheel base is 166.2 inches long making the RAV4 12.4 inches shorter than a Honda CR-V and nine inches shorter than a Subaru Forester.

The best description is a wedge shaped cabin which is somewhat hard to do with what is a tall small box! The designers achieve this with a sloping hood and downward sloping rear panels and windows. This, combined with a roof which arches, and the optional spolier produces an effect which is sleek and stylish.

The bodywork is smooth with bumpers which are flared out over the chunky 16 inch wheels. The rear lights work smoothly around the sides and at the nose the headlights have wasp like features which face up. The foglights (optional) are housed in the front grill.

Optional alloy wheels come with a simple spoke pattern. The rear door has a hinge on the right which means that the door swings the wrong way for some situations. Be sure to check this on the model you purchase.



Interior Features

A low floor makes alighting and embarking easy and lets you into a roomy interior cabin.

There is plenty of legroom and the drivers footwell allows even the tallest of people to stretch out. The bucket seats hold the body comfortably and are covered with a rugged black trim which gives a high class feel. The seats offer a good view and you will lord over your surroundings as you drive, giving good forward visibility. However the spare on the rear door hampers somewhat the rear view. The wheel is adjustable and fits a variety of body heights comfortably.

The dashboard is clear and easy to read, well styled and lit in day and night, although at night the guages were lit with an orange light which made some of the readings slightly less readable than a traditional colored dial.http://

Monday, July 20, 2009

2008 BMW 3-Series



With a total of 15 different models and four body configurations, the 3 Series is BMW urbocharged, all-wheel drive 335xi might be the most exciting to drive. All 3 Seriesconvertible models offers a quiet ride and coupe-like look due to a retractable hardtop. During the first four years of ownership, BMW 3 Series drivers receive a 50,000-mile warranty and $0 maintenance program in addition to an unlimited mileage roadside assistance. The BMW 3 Series

2007 Ferrari 430 Spider



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2007 Bentley Continental GT GT


Vehicle Description


WOW! This awesome 2007 BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT is offered in the stunning color combination of WHITE with a SADDLE LEATHER interior and 2,800 miles. The option list includes; NAVIGATION, HEATED SEATS, VENEER INSERTS TO DOOR & REAR QUARTER PANELS, 5 SPOKE CHROME WHEELS, and WOOD & HIDE STEERING WHEEL. This A.W.D. "world class" luxury exotic has a V-12 that puts out 552 H.P. and will go from 0-60 in 4.9 seconds with a top speed of 190 M.P.H., will comfortly seat 4 passengers. You can buy this fine BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT with confidence , knowing that you are buying the BEST from the BEST!!!
Current bid:
US $79,600.00
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Thursday, July 9, 2009

Lincoln MKX


009 Lincoln MKX at AOL Autos
Interested in buying a 2009 Lincoln MKX? Get information on pricing, specs, safety features and equipment options for the 2009 Lincoln MKX SUV and Lincoln MKX crossover. Plus find deals and reviews for 2009 MKXs and compare the MKX wit

2009 Lincoln MKX Overview



2009 Lincoln MKX Overview
Introduction
The MKX, which debuted in 2007, is Lincoln's first entry into the ever-growing luxury cross-over segment.
The five passenger MKX is powered by a 265-hp 3.5-liter V-6 that puts power to the ground via a six-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel drive. Standard safety features include four-wheel anti-lock brakes, six airbags, electronic stability control with roll control, rear parking sensors and tire pressure monitoring. Optional luxury features on the MKX include a large glass-paneled sunroof called VistaRoof, heated rear seats, navigation system, rear entertainment system and a THX II certified audio system.
For 2009, Lincoln's next-generation navigation system is now available, which includes a 10GB harddrive for music storage and SIRIUS Travel Link.

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test
NHTSA rates crash-tested vehicles by assigning them one to five stars, with five stars indicating the most injury protection and one star indicating the least protection.

2010 Acura TSX Miscellaneous Pictures



2010 Acura TSX Misc. Pictures
View miscellaneous pictures of the 2010 TSX at Automotive.com. Use this section to inspect any vehicle you’re interested in, and choose the car with the best styling, interior and exterior details.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class Review




New styling for flagship sports car.
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IntroductionThe Mercedes SL debuted in 1957 and has been an object of lust ever since. A two-seat, rear-wheel-drive roadster, the SL is the classic sporting Mercedes. Like the original, today's SL boasts outstanding performance. The Mercedes-Benz SL-Class has matured in every way over its six generations, quicker and faster on the one hand, more beautiful and more luxurious on the other, to the point where it lacks absolutely nothing, from its array of powerful V8 and V12 engines to its powerful stereo to its active suspension system to those all-day bucket seats. It is a marvel of automotive technology, featuring a folding steel convertible top.
For 2009, the SL models feature a whole new look, though underneath they retain the same basic platform. Also new is the 2009 Mercedes SL63 AMG, sporting a powerful normally aspirated V8 engine.
Speaking of which, each of the four models that comprise the 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is designed around a different engine. Each has its own character. Each has its own charms, but all are fast. There's no such thing as a slow SL, not in the current lineup.
Review Sections
• Introduction
Lineup
Walkaround
Interior
Driving Impressions
Summary & Specs
Get Your Free Quote on a Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
The SL550 is plenty, trust us. Its 5.5-liter V8 engine emits an uncharacteristically barbaric growl for a Mercedes. Boasting 382 horsepower, it's ready and willing to accelerate at all rev ranges, and it comes with the latest in transmissions, a seven-speed automatic with a manual shiftgate. Overall, the SL550 is a sporty roadster with quick steering and nimble moves. Compared with the other models, the Mercedes SL550 seems like the deal of the century for $95,900 MSRP.
The SL600 has a more immediate power than the SL550, yet the engine is considerably quieter. Our advice: Don't drive a Mercedes SL600 unless $136,100 is burning a hole in your pocket because you might fall in love with it. Fast and comfortable, there's lots to love here. Its butter smooth twin-turbo 6.0-liter V12 is time-tested and produces 517 horsepower. More noticeable and oh so wonderful is its gobs of torque, a bottomless well of power available when cruising along: specifically, 612 pound-feet of torque from 1900 to 3500 rpm. The V12 comes with a five-speed automatic that can also be shifted manually. With its heavier V12 engine, the SL600 is less nimble and more of a tourer than a pure sports car. But as a touring car, say driving from L.A. to Vegas, the SL600 is pure joy.
Since the beginning, the SL's laurels have been raised by performance models, and two AMG versions are available in the current lineup. The 2009 Mercedes SL63 AMG uses a normally aspirated 518-hp 6.2-liter V8 mated to a new seven-speed automated manual transmission called the AMG Speedshift MCT 7. The SL63 AMG is a meaner version of the SL550. It's the sportiest SL and, arguably, the sportiest car Mercedes-AMG has ever built. The SL 63 AMG is brutally quick and fast when the throttle pedal is pushed into the carpet, yet it is still quiet enough, and docile enough to use as a commuter car in heavy traffic every day. Stand on the gas and it's even louder than the SL550.
The SL65 AMG has a twin-turbocharged V12 that puts out 604 horsepower. It is a torquey beast that delivers a rush of power bested only by exotics and pro drag cars. It's a lot of car, perhaps too much for an unskilled driver as its immense power can make it hard to handle. Like the SL600, the SL65's V12 is quieter than the V8s. And like the SL600, the SL65 is heavy (it is the heaviest SL), so it isn't as tossable as the V8 models. Tossable often equates to fun.
Not surprisingly, no SL gets good fuel mileage. The SL550 is EPA rated at 14 mpg city and 21 mpg highway, and it gets worse as you move up the model line. As a result, every SL is saddled with a Gas Guzzler Tax by the federal government.

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

President of Cadillac-Hummer-Saab Channel Wants More Cadillac Derivatives


The critical acclaim of its newest sedan, the Cadillac CTS, prompted GM to spawn both wagon and coupe derivatives off the platform. If Mark McNabb, the president of the Cadillac-Hummer-Saab channel gets his way, Cadillac will get more models based on that scenario."Look at a CTS and I think you can start understanding where we are going. Look at a CTS [sedan], CTS wagon, CTS coupe - obviously, derivatives off a platform make a lot of sense from a financial perspective," McNabb said at the 2009 Chicago Auto Show.Cadillac's plan mimics the business model of one of Europe's biggest luxury players, Mercedes-Benz, which offers several niche models based on similar platforms. BMW has been following the trend as well, debuting an X6 "sports activity coupe" last year, which is based on the X5 platform, and unveiling a 5-Series GT hatchback built on the underpinnings of the new 7-Series."I compete today in about 65 to 68 percent of the market," McNabb said. In addition to the CTS, Cadillac sells the STS and DTS sedans, the XLR roadster on schedule to be discontinued after the 2009 model year, the SRX crossover which is redesigned for the 2010 model year, and the Escalade SUV. The CTS wagon will arrive in showrooms this year as a 2010 model, while the coupe will be available next year as a 2011.

2009 Infiniti G37 Sport Sedan


Base Price: $34,250 Body Style: Sedan Whats New: Big changes as the G Series introduces a new convertible model in early 2009. All family members will share "G37" nomenclature as sedans get the 3.7L, 330-hp V-6. The coupe also adds a new AWD (G37x) variant, the Sport sedan gets coupe-spec 18-in. alloys and bigger brakes, and al Sum Up: Budget BMW 3 series. And it works.

2009 Nissan Altima 2.5 S 4dr Sedan Overview



The front-wheel drive, five-passenger Nissan Altima combines performance and an attractive exterior as either a two-door coupe or a four-door sedan.
The Nissan Altima is powered by either a 175-hp 2.5-liter V6 or a 270-hp 3.5-liter V6 and the transmission choices include a six-speed manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT). The trims on the Altima include: the 2.5 Base (on the sedan only), the 2.5 S, the 3.5 SE and the 3.5 SL (on the sedan only). Safety features include: four-wheel disc brakes, anti-lock brakes on all trims except for the Sedan 2.5 Base, six airbags, front seat-belt pre-tensioners and a tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS). The coupe's roofline is 2.6 inches lower than the sedan's and flows back into a long and nicely sculpted tail section that narrows between wide shoulders above prominent wheel arches. The suspension is tuned to provide the driver with a more nimble feel and heightened responsiveness.
For 2009, the Nissan Altima Coupe and Sedan are a carryover.

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test
NHTSA rates crash-tested vehicles by assigning them one to five stars, with five stars indicating the most injury protection and one star indicating the least protection.

2009 Chevrolet Malibu Overview



Introduction
Redesigned in 2008, the Chevrolet Malibu emphasizes civilized road manners, quality construction and practicality, with clean, contemporary styling.
The 2009 Malibu has three trim levels: LS, LT, and LTZ. All models come with a 169-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as standard equipment. The LS and LT include a four-speed automatic transmission. The LTZ includes a six-speed automatic transmission, optional on the LT. Optional on the LT and LTZ is a 252-hp, 3.6-liter V6, matched with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Malibu comes with standard safety features such as seat-mounted thorax airbags, side-curtain airbags, stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. New for 2009 the Malibu includes standard Bluetooth on the LTZ, optional on the LT.
The distinctive and classy Chevrolet Malibu carries over from 2008 with some minor changes.

NHTSA Frontal Crash Test
NHTSA rates crash-tested vehicles by assigning them one to five stars, with five stars indicating the most injury protection and one star indicating the least protection.

Crossover/Wagon: Lexus RX400h AWD


Starting price: $42,980
Power: 268-hp 3.3-liter V-6
2nd place : BMW X6
3rd place: Mercedes-Benz R320 CDI
Luxury? The RX400h is dripping with perks.
Gas mileage? 25 mpg average, 27 highway.
Conscience? It was the first luxury hybrid.
There's also an amazing 38.3 cu. ft. of cargo volume--suitcases ahead of the competition. And impressive refinements and Toyota dependability. Lexus thinks of everything.

BENTLEY ARNAGE


With 450bhp and 645lb.ft of torque the new Bentley Arnage is the most powerful production Bentley ever. A hand-built four-door sports saloon capable of 168mph* where conditions permit and able to accelerate from 0-60mph in just 5.5 seconds. Both exterior and interior receive unique treatment. Less visible, but equally striking are the new chassis and engineering improvements. The Bentley Arnage combines luxurious accommodation for four with the handling, responsiveness and braking of a sports car.

Make and Model: Bentley Arnage T Year: 1908 Engine Type: 6.75 liter Twin Turbo V8 Torque: 645lb-ft@32500rpm Acceleration 0-60: 5.5 s Suspension: double wishbone Wheel Base: 122.77 inches List Price: $229,000 Horsepower: 450bhp@4100rpm Top Speed: 168 mph Brakes: 4-wheel vent. disc Transmission: 4-speed Automatic Weight: 5699 lbs

BMW car


2006 BMW


2006 BMW 3 Series 325i Sedan
Star Checked Certification
215 horsepower in a sedan..Come drive the 32v



Vehicle Overview
The 325i has a 2.5-liter six rated at 215 horsepower. One of BMW's finest!! This is what has made BMW so successful over the years, the company's attention to detail and the ride experience. The 325i doesn't disappoint. This car's tan interior is definitely Teutonic, with good leather seats that offer side support and tasteful wood trim. The instruments are clear and easy to read. Come in and drive this sedan with out sacrificng sport and luxury!! This vehicle has completed a 126 multi point safety inspection, and was Star Checked by one of our certified Bosch technicians. All of our pre-owned vehicles are inspected before they are put out on the lot for preview. Our goal is to offer the most reliable pre-owned cars, both on site and through the internet in Charleston, SC. Luxury Cars of Charleston is a family owned business with employees that have a combined 75 years of experience in the car industry. We have built our business on repeat customers, referrals and word of mouth. Our customers enjoy our quality Bosch Service Center and our rates are typically 20% less than most franchise stores. A quality Auto Check verified vehicle is what everyone is looking for and that is the ONLY type of inventory we offer. So, Stop Shopping and Start Driving Affordable Luxury!!! Contact David Warren, our General Manager Toll Free at 1-866-907-3561 or directly at 843-377-6000, and he will set up a test drive that best works for you! If you want to come by and see this vehicle in person, please ask for John Bradley ,Sam Duff or Butch Fritz our sales consultants. Luxury Cars of Charleston looks forward to building a long term relationship with you and we know we can exceed your expectations. Don't forget about the Free Carfax and service history reports. Ask about our excellent Extended Service plans.

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

The Ferrari Enzo


The Ferrari Enzo is the dream of every car lover, to be specific, the dream of every sports car lover. It is not easily accessible to the common man as it ranges around a million and a half dollars. But it is a passion for many to owe a
ferrari

In Ferrari Enzo, you are just discovering new things. The sophisticated technology used has made driving an all-new experience. You may win races lose races but the brand stands up with lifted shoulders.
High-end sports cars have different ways to generate lift. The Ferrari Enzo uses down force to the tune if about 300 pounds at 124 mph owing to its low ground clearance of the smooth body, reduced cabin height and with the help of very effective diffusers. It is amazing that they achieve this without the use of add-on down force producers such as rear wings and front splitters. This in addition to maintaining a relatively low CD of .32 shows the class of the genre.