Friday, October 31, 2008
Halloween Cars
Collection of Halloween cars from around the world. Some are scary than others but good effort everybody! Happy Halloween!
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Honda Fit - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 Honda Fit ranks 2 out of 35 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 66 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Fit, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Fit's configurable cabin, numerous standard amenities and peppy performance secure its place as one of the top affordable small cars and hatchbacks. With the escalating gas prices, it's also an economical purchase for its good fuel mileage.
Reviewers commend the 2008 Honda Fit's all-around appeal compared to similarly styled and powered subcompacts. Back in 2007, both Motor Trend and Road and Track conducted comparison tests featuring the Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa. Both tests concluded the Fit is the standout of those three for its fun-to-drive demeanor on city streets, as well as its utility. Motor Trend calls the Fit "the right choice for the enthusiast who wants a car that handles twisties as well as it does chores, saves gas, and eases your budget." To Road and Track, the Fit is "the most fun to drive" of the three. A four-door hatchback, the 2008 Fit was introduced in the United States just last year in two trims, the base model or Fit Sport.
The 2008 Honda Fit has won more than comparison tests. It was selected as one of Car and Driver's 10Best for 2008, as well as one of Car and Driver's Top 10 Urban Vehicles. In 2007, the Fit received Popular Mechanics' Automotive Excellence Award. "For a small, so-called B-Car, the Fit has what may be class-leading handling, ride, steering feel and brakes," Popular Mechanics writes, adding, "Then, toss in the Fit's surprising interior adaptability with seats that flip, fold and offer more passenger and cargo carrying combinations than many minivans. Finally, Honda's hallmark quality and attention to detail…mean the sum of the parts makes the Fit seem much more than just another B-Car."
"Not only does the Fit deliver what you'd expect -- high mpg numbers and low ownership costs -- but it also delivers something you might not: high-quality interior appointments, a high level of usefulness, and a high fun-to-drive index." -- Car and Driver
"At first you want to drive it because it looks neat. Then, after utilizing its fantastically thought-out interior, you respect it for its usability." -- Road and Track
"It's a lot of fun to drive -- a car that you can be proud to own."-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
"You'd be hard pressed to find a car that can do so much with so little and be so lovable doing it. The Fit is one-half of the perfect two-car garage. Or even one-quarter." -- Los Angeles Times
Disagreeing with most experts, CNET says the Fit offers "low-speed power, maneuverability, nice cabin materials, and plenty of room inside for occupants and cargo. But even with these practical points, it's a car that doesn't live up to its potential." -- CNET
Fit Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
The Fit earns its high performance score with its pleasing ride, as long as drivers keep in mind the Fit is a compact car, not a hot rod. After driving the Fit Sport, The Auto Channel reported, "It 'corners on its door handles,' as the old saying goes, but sticks well and is great fun to drive." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn how the Fit's power and precision compares to the other subcompacts on the test track, or how reviewers say the Fit absorbs road bumps with its tightly packaged suspension. continue
Fit Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 Honda Fit has a more functional appeal than a fashionable one, leading to a relatively low exterior score for the class. Still, reviews like CNET's report, "We do like the design," and commend the car's "nice exterior look." Check out the 2008 Honda Fit Photo Gallery to see the four-door hatchback or continue with our Exterior Review to learn how others say the Fit's design compares to the MINI Cooper, Mazda3 or Honda Civic. continue
Fit Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)
The Fit's interior combines functionality with comfort and is considered one of the best interiors in the class. Car and Driver says, "There seems to be more room inside this car than the tidy exterior could possibly contain, the seats flop and fold to yield great cargo versatility, and the interior appointments would do justice to an Accord." Check out the 2008 Honda Fit Photo Gallery to see images of the Fit's "magic seat" and continue with our full Interior Review to learn more about the four different seating and cargo configurations available inside the Fit. continue
Fit Safety - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 2008 Fit receives five out of five stars in front crashes, five stars in front seat occupants' protection in side crashes, and three out of five stars in rear seat occupants' protection in side crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2008 Fit a "Good" rating -- the highest possible -- in both frontal offset and side-impact tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn more about the Fit's safety equipment, as well as how reviewers judge the subcompact's ability to protect against and prevent accidents. continue
Fit Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Honda Fit reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Honda Fit comes with a standard three-year or 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, as well as a five-year or 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Check out our full Reliability Review to find out critics' opinion of the Fit's growing reputation
and build quality. continue
The 2008 Honda Fit ranks 2 out of 35 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 66 published reviews and test drives of the Honda Fit, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Fit's configurable cabin, numerous standard amenities and peppy performance secure its place as one of the top affordable small cars and hatchbacks. With the escalating gas prices, it's also an economical purchase for its good fuel mileage.
Reviewers commend the 2008 Honda Fit's all-around appeal compared to similarly styled and powered subcompacts. Back in 2007, both Motor Trend and Road and Track conducted comparison tests featuring the Fit, Toyota Yaris and Nissan Versa. Both tests concluded the Fit is the standout of those three for its fun-to-drive demeanor on city streets, as well as its utility. Motor Trend calls the Fit "the right choice for the enthusiast who wants a car that handles twisties as well as it does chores, saves gas, and eases your budget." To Road and Track, the Fit is "the most fun to drive" of the three. A four-door hatchback, the 2008 Fit was introduced in the United States just last year in two trims, the base model or Fit Sport.
The 2008 Honda Fit has won more than comparison tests. It was selected as one of Car and Driver's 10Best for 2008, as well as one of Car and Driver's Top 10 Urban Vehicles. In 2007, the Fit received Popular Mechanics' Automotive Excellence Award. "For a small, so-called B-Car, the Fit has what may be class-leading handling, ride, steering feel and brakes," Popular Mechanics writes, adding, "Then, toss in the Fit's surprising interior adaptability with seats that flip, fold and offer more passenger and cargo carrying combinations than many minivans. Finally, Honda's hallmark quality and attention to detail…mean the sum of the parts makes the Fit seem much more than just another B-Car."
"Not only does the Fit deliver what you'd expect -- high mpg numbers and low ownership costs -- but it also delivers something you might not: high-quality interior appointments, a high level of usefulness, and a high fun-to-drive index." -- Car and Driver
"At first you want to drive it because it looks neat. Then, after utilizing its fantastically thought-out interior, you respect it for its usability." -- Road and Track
"It's a lot of fun to drive -- a car that you can be proud to own."-- Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
"You'd be hard pressed to find a car that can do so much with so little and be so lovable doing it. The Fit is one-half of the perfect two-car garage. Or even one-quarter." -- Los Angeles Times
Disagreeing with most experts, CNET says the Fit offers "low-speed power, maneuverability, nice cabin materials, and plenty of room inside for occupants and cargo. But even with these practical points, it's a car that doesn't live up to its potential." -- CNET
Fit Performance - 8.1 (Very Good)
The Fit earns its high performance score with its pleasing ride, as long as drivers keep in mind the Fit is a compact car, not a hot rod. After driving the Fit Sport, The Auto Channel reported, "It 'corners on its door handles,' as the old saying goes, but sticks well and is great fun to drive." Continue with our full Performance Review to learn how the Fit's power and precision compares to the other subcompacts on the test track, or how reviewers say the Fit absorbs road bumps with its tightly packaged suspension. continue
Fit Exterior - 7.7 (Good)
The 2008 Honda Fit has a more functional appeal than a fashionable one, leading to a relatively low exterior score for the class. Still, reviews like CNET's report, "We do like the design," and commend the car's "nice exterior look." Check out the 2008 Honda Fit Photo Gallery to see the four-door hatchback or continue with our Exterior Review to learn how others say the Fit's design compares to the MINI Cooper, Mazda3 or Honda Civic. continue
Fit Interior - 8.3 (Very Good)
The Fit's interior combines functionality with comfort and is considered one of the best interiors in the class. Car and Driver says, "There seems to be more room inside this car than the tidy exterior could possibly contain, the seats flop and fold to yield great cargo versatility, and the interior appointments would do justice to an Accord." Check out the 2008 Honda Fit Photo Gallery to see images of the Fit's "magic seat" and continue with our full Interior Review to learn more about the four different seating and cargo configurations available inside the Fit. continue
Fit Safety - 8.3 (Very Good)
The 2008 Fit receives five out of five stars in front crashes, five stars in front seat occupants' protection in side crashes, and three out of five stars in rear seat occupants' protection in side crashes, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the 2008 Fit a "Good" rating -- the highest possible -- in both frontal offset and side-impact tests. Continue with our full Safety Review to learn more about the Fit's safety equipment, as well as how reviewers judge the subcompact's ability to protect against and prevent accidents. continue
Fit Reliability - 10.0 (Excellent)
The 2008 Honda Fit reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2008 Honda Fit comes with a standard three-year or 36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty, as well as a five-year or 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty. Check out our full Reliability Review to find out critics' opinion of the Fit's growing reputation
and build quality. continue
Truck power and car-like fuel efficiency for 2009 Sierra / Silverado Hybrids
By Justin Pritchard
GM has been developing a large-SUV hybrid drive system in cooperation with Chrysler and BMW. Teaming up helps spread development costs across three different automakers, and the resulting Two-Mode hybrid system is already available to Tahoe and Yukon buyers. It's an innovative partial electric drivetrain that allows the huge haulers to consume as little fuel as a mid-sized sedan.
2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid
The technology will soon make the leap from SUV's to pickup trucks. GM has already announced the upcoming availability of the GMC Sierra Hybrid and Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid models, which promise buyers the power of a hefty six-liter engine combined with a hybrid drive system for fuel savings. GM says the new hybrid pickups offer the handsome looks and power owners are used to, while offering a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption.
All-electric driving is possible at speeds under 30 miles per hour courtesy of the Two-Mode hybrid system. At low speeds and under low-load, the gas engine can go to rest completely, allowing the truck to be driven solely on battery power. This uses no fuel, emits no emissions and is completely silent.
When the accelerator is depressed, Sierra Hybrid's 6.0 liter V8 instantly goes to work to deliver a familiar sound and acceleration. The V8 engine helps the Sierra Hybrid along at highway speeds, while employing some fuel-saving technologies of its own. These include Late Intake Valve Closing (LIVC) to help in the emissions department, and Active Fuel Management to de-activate cylinders when appropriate.
The latter feature allows the engine to put cylinders to 'sleep' when not needed- allowing the big V8 to boast smaller-engine fuel consumption in certain situations. Sierra hybrid also gets a specially tuned exhaust system which takes the hybrid powerplant's unique characteristics into consideration.
GM says the Sierra and Silverado Hybrids will allow owners to realize a fuel savings even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer. The hybrid hardware will be sold on crew-cab bodied trucks in two and four wheel drive. A stability control system, trailering package and locking rear axle are standard on hybrid models, and towing capacity is 6,100 lbs.
2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid
Jim Bunnell, GMC general manager, comments on the Sierra Hybrid model. "The Sierra Hybrid represents GMC's commitment to engineering excellence, delivering a fully functional truck that offers a significant improvement in fuel economy. Sierra Hybrid will deliver fuel economy that is expected to be the best in the full-size pickup segment, exceeding the current mileage leader - the non-hybrid Sierra."
The Silverado and Sierra hybrid twins go on sale later this year.
By Justin Pritchard
GM has been developing a large-SUV hybrid drive system in cooperation with Chrysler and BMW. Teaming up helps spread development costs across three different automakers, and the resulting Two-Mode hybrid system is already available to Tahoe and Yukon buyers. It's an innovative partial electric drivetrain that allows the huge haulers to consume as little fuel as a mid-sized sedan.
2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid
The technology will soon make the leap from SUV's to pickup trucks. GM has already announced the upcoming availability of the GMC Sierra Hybrid and Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid models, which promise buyers the power of a hefty six-liter engine combined with a hybrid drive system for fuel savings. GM says the new hybrid pickups offer the handsome looks and power owners are used to, while offering a 25 percent reduction in fuel consumption.
All-electric driving is possible at speeds under 30 miles per hour courtesy of the Two-Mode hybrid system. At low speeds and under low-load, the gas engine can go to rest completely, allowing the truck to be driven solely on battery power. This uses no fuel, emits no emissions and is completely silent.
When the accelerator is depressed, Sierra Hybrid's 6.0 liter V8 instantly goes to work to deliver a familiar sound and acceleration. The V8 engine helps the Sierra Hybrid along at highway speeds, while employing some fuel-saving technologies of its own. These include Late Intake Valve Closing (LIVC) to help in the emissions department, and Active Fuel Management to de-activate cylinders when appropriate.
The latter feature allows the engine to put cylinders to 'sleep' when not needed- allowing the big V8 to boast smaller-engine fuel consumption in certain situations. Sierra hybrid also gets a specially tuned exhaust system which takes the hybrid powerplant's unique characteristics into consideration.
GM says the Sierra and Silverado Hybrids will allow owners to realize a fuel savings even when the truck is fully loaded or towing a trailer. The hybrid hardware will be sold on crew-cab bodied trucks in two and four wheel drive. A stability control system, trailering package and locking rear axle are standard on hybrid models, and towing capacity is 6,100 lbs.
2009 GMC Sierra Hybrid
Jim Bunnell, GMC general manager, comments on the Sierra Hybrid model. "The Sierra Hybrid represents GMC's commitment to engineering excellence, delivering a fully functional truck that offers a significant improvement in fuel economy. Sierra Hybrid will deliver fuel economy that is expected to be the best in the full-size pickup segment, exceeding the current mileage leader - the non-hybrid Sierra."
The Silverado and Sierra hybrid twins go on sale later this year.
Toyota confirms - again - plans to build production plug-in hybrid vehicles
So has Toyota been resting on its Prius?
Not hardly, says Irv Miller, veep of Toyota’s American corporate communications. Says Miller, “Let me be clear about this: We believe strongly in the viability of plug-in hybrids in some applications, and in their use of lithium-ion batteries. We believe so strongly, in fact, that we plan to begin production of PHEVs late next year.”
Toyota has a joint venture (60 per cent owned by Toyota) with electronics giant Panasonic, which will begin production-line assembly of lithium-ion batteries developed entirely in-house.
Toyota, along with Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley (UCB), began a test of plug-in hybrids equipped with nickel-metal-hydride (NmH) batteries to accumulate real-word data in late 2007. However, the NmH batteries, even in an oversized battery pack, gave only about seven miles of pure electric operation, and as such was not intended for general distribution.
While conceding that seven miles would be adequate for most weekend trips, Toyota still almost frustratedly cited the advantage of its current hybrid system as being independent of the extension cord.
So as announced by Katsuaki Watanabe, president of Toyota Motor Corp., at last year’s Detroit Auto Show, Toyota will build and deliver what he called "a significant fleet" of plug in hybrids to fleet users in the latter part of 2009.
Toyota will introduce the third generation of Prius at the Detroit auto show in January, and (purposefully?) leaked photos of it have been circulating the web and have been confirmed by Toyota as being accurate. Presumably at that time we’ll know, too, whether that plug-in hybrid will be in the form of a specially-equipped Prius.
What we won't know is when Toyota will offer a PHEV to the general public. Or will we? Stay tuned.
by John Matras, Automotive Examiner
Plug-in hybrids and lithium-ion batteries are the Next Big Things and Toyota, it would seem from the recent flurry of electric car news, might be losing its grip on first place in the hybrid/lithium-ion battery race.
Lithium-ion batteries developed in a joint project between Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Continental (who will make the batteries) are used in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid as well as a BMW 7-Series hybrid concept car, and will be the sole power source for the pure electric Mini E. Of course, General Motors has the much ballyhooed 2010 Chevrolet Volt almost ready for primetime.
Lithium-ion batteries developed in a joint project between Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Continental (who will make the batteries) are used in the 2009 Mercedes-Benz S400 BlueHybrid as well as a BMW 7-Series hybrid concept car, and will be the sole power source for the pure electric Mini E. Of course, General Motors has the much ballyhooed 2010 Chevrolet Volt almost ready for primetime.
So has Toyota been resting on its Prius?
Not hardly, says Irv Miller, veep of Toyota’s American corporate communications. Says Miller, “Let me be clear about this: We believe strongly in the viability of plug-in hybrids in some applications, and in their use of lithium-ion batteries. We believe so strongly, in fact, that we plan to begin production of PHEVs late next year.”
Toyota has a joint venture (60 per cent owned by Toyota) with electronics giant Panasonic, which will begin production-line assembly of lithium-ion batteries developed entirely in-house.
Toyota, along with Advanced Power and Energy Program at the University of California, Irvine (UCI) and the Institute of Transportation Studies at the University of California, Berkeley (UCB), began a test of plug-in hybrids equipped with nickel-metal-hydride (NmH) batteries to accumulate real-word data in late 2007. However, the NmH batteries, even in an oversized battery pack, gave only about seven miles of pure electric operation, and as such was not intended for general distribution.
While conceding that seven miles would be adequate for most weekend trips, Toyota still almost frustratedly cited the advantage of its current hybrid system as being independent of the extension cord.
So as announced by Katsuaki Watanabe, president of Toyota Motor Corp., at last year’s Detroit Auto Show, Toyota will build and deliver what he called "a significant fleet" of plug in hybrids to fleet users in the latter part of 2009.
Toyota will introduce the third generation of Prius at the Detroit auto show in January, and (purposefully?) leaked photos of it have been circulating the web and have been confirmed by Toyota as being accurate. Presumably at that time we’ll know, too, whether that plug-in hybrid will be in the form of a specially-equipped Prius.
What we won't know is when Toyota will offer a PHEV to the general public. Or will we? Stay tuned.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Lamborghini Estoque 4 door
Pictures and Video of the Lamborghini Estoque four-door.
The Estoque - the name refers to the sword matadors use to kill bulls, is the first four-door to roll out of Sant'Agata since the company built the abominable Portofino for the Frankfurt auto show in 1987. Whereas the Porotfino looked like a Chrysler with scissor doors, the Estoque looks like a Murcielago or Reventon with four doors.
It's all sharp angles and long lines, coming in at almost 17 feet long. Those 23-inch wheels are nearly 10 feet apart. Unlike the Gallardo and Murcielago, the all-wheel-drive Estoque carries its engine just behind the front axle. Lamborghini claims the car's weight distribution approaches 50-50, providing "unparalleled agility and handling precision."
Video showcasing the Lamborghini Estoque
So what about that engine? Sant'Agata says "a range of drivelines is conceivable." Topping the list of possibilities is the 520-horsepower V10 from the Gallardo or a twin-turbo V8 derived from it. But then things get interesting, with Lamborghini saying, "a particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI."
Both options not only make sense, they're entirely feasible. Lamborghini is owned by Audi, which is actively pursuing hybrid drivetrains in vehicles like the Q5 SUV and the A1 concept it's bringing to Paris. Audi also has loads of experience with diesels, dominating LeMans with the R10 racer and wowing the crowd in Detroit with the 500-horsepower R8 TDI.
Winkelmann says the Estoque is a running prototype and the company could sell 2,000 to 3,000 of them if it goes into production in 2010. That would double the number of cars Lamborghini sold last year and let it compete against the Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera. Which, by the way, may come with a hybrid drivetrain.
The Estoque - the name refers to the sword matadors use to kill bulls, is the first four-door to roll out of Sant'Agata since the company built the abominable Portofino for the Frankfurt auto show in 1987. Whereas the Porotfino looked like a Chrysler with scissor doors, the Estoque looks like a Murcielago or Reventon with four doors.
It's all sharp angles and long lines, coming in at almost 17 feet long. Those 23-inch wheels are nearly 10 feet apart. Unlike the Gallardo and Murcielago, the all-wheel-drive Estoque carries its engine just behind the front axle. Lamborghini claims the car's weight distribution approaches 50-50, providing "unparalleled agility and handling precision."
Video showcasing the Lamborghini Estoque
So what about that engine? Sant'Agata says "a range of drivelines is conceivable." Topping the list of possibilities is the 520-horsepower V10 from the Gallardo or a twin-turbo V8 derived from it. But then things get interesting, with Lamborghini saying, "a particularly economical, but nevertheless dynamic, variation would be a V8 with a hybrid module or an extremely high-performance TDI."
Both options not only make sense, they're entirely feasible. Lamborghini is owned by Audi, which is actively pursuing hybrid drivetrains in vehicles like the Q5 SUV and the A1 concept it's bringing to Paris. Audi also has loads of experience with diesels, dominating LeMans with the R10 racer and wowing the crowd in Detroit with the 500-horsepower R8 TDI.
Winkelmann says the Estoque is a running prototype and the company could sell 2,000 to 3,000 of them if it goes into production in 2010. That would double the number of cars Lamborghini sold last year and let it compete against the Aston Martin Rapide and Porsche Panamera. Which, by the way, may come with a hybrid drivetrain.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
10 Most Popular Cars of the Year
By the Road & Track Staff
September 2008
What's the hottest car on the market? Depends on who you ask. But Yahoo! knows which car it is, thanks to an exhaustive tracking plan that factors in numerous criteria. Yes, user interest is high on that list, but so too is the intent and satisfaction of each Yahoo! visitor, which is measured not only by search queries and leads submitted, but also by ratings and reviews.
And you know what? The results may surprise you. While 2008 has seen the introduction of some of the most powerful sports cars ever, concerns over gas prices have focused buyer attention like a laser on fuel-efficient transportation. Smoky burnouts may be fun, but great fuel economy, affordable sticker prices and dependability are top priorities in today's market.
This shift in consumer attitudes is best reflected in the top 10 Yahoo! cars. The list is dominated by compact and subcompact fuel sippers, hybrids and two of the most popular family sedans on the market today. Still, the fact that the Ford Mustang cracked this elite group shows that even in a time of volatile gas prices, the American love affair with the automobile is still alive and well.
The list of top 10 cars of 2008 is arranged alphabetically, with pricing, fuel economy, competitive set, hot features and capsule summaries of each provided by the editors of Road & Track magazine. The top car of 2008 as determined by Yahoo! users will be announced at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show in November.
Top 10 Contenders for the Yahoo! Autos Excelerator Award:
Ford Focus
Ford Mustang
Honda Accord Sedan
Honda Civic
Honda Fit
Kia Rio
Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Toyota Yaris
By the Road & Track StaffSeptember 2008
What's the hottest car on the market? Depends on who you ask. But Yahoo! knows which car it is, thanks to an exhaustive tracking plan that factors in numerous criteria. Yes, user interest is high on that list, but so too is the intent and satisfaction of each Yahoo! visitor, which is measured not only by search queries and leads submitted, but also by ratings and reviews.
And you know what? The results may surprise you. While 2008 has seen the introduction of some of the most powerful sports cars ever, concerns over gas prices have focused buyer attention like a laser on fuel-efficient transportation. Smoky burnouts may be fun, but great fuel economy, affordable sticker prices and dependability are top priorities in today's market.
This shift in consumer attitudes is best reflected in the top 10 Yahoo! cars. The list is dominated by compact and subcompact fuel sippers, hybrids and two of the most popular family sedans on the market today. Still, the fact that the Ford Mustang cracked this elite group shows that even in a time of volatile gas prices, the American love affair with the automobile is still alive and well.
The list of top 10 cars of 2008 is arranged alphabetically, with pricing, fuel economy, competitive set, hot features and capsule summaries of each provided by the editors of Road & Track magazine. The top car of 2008 as determined by Yahoo! users will be announced at the 2008 Los Angeles International Auto Show in November.
Top 10 Contenders for the Yahoo! Autos Excelerator Award:
Ford Focus
Ford Mustang
Honda Accord Sedan
Honda Civic
Honda Fit
Kia Rio
Toyota Camry
Toyota Corolla
Toyota Prius
Toyota Yaris
Monday, October 20, 2008
FORD
Detroit Auto Show: 2009 Ford F-150
By Matt Hardigree
The 2009 Ford F-150 has arrived and, for potential buyers, there are two major stories here other than the new frame and exterior: more standard/available features and more model variations. Now standard is the AdvanceTrack with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Trailer Sway Control, the new Tailgate w/ box side steps and the new "Easy Fuel" capless fuel-filler system that uses a a sensor to automatically seal shut when the nozzle is removed. Available on all F-150's is the SYNC system (with all goodies), new 700-watt Sony sound system, integrated trailer brake controller (segment first on light-duty pickups) and rearview camera assist. There are going to be a total of 35variations of the new F-150 (XL, STX, FX4, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch), including the new Platinum series, which adds extra detailing and chrome on the outside and features such as ash wood accents, 10-way adjustable leather captain's chairs and standard 20-inch polished aluminum wheels. 
In the power department, the 4.2L V6 is out as the base engine, with a 2-valve 4.6-liter V8 that is promised to produce more horsepower with the same fuel economy. The mid-range engine is a new 3-valve 4.6-liter and the top of the line is the familiar 5.4-liter Triton V8 which has been tweaked for more horsepower and now capable of running on E85 corngas blends. Across the range there's a fleet-average 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy, despite having no V6. Both diesel and EcoBoost options are planned for the F-150 in 2010. The new F-150 gets fully boxed frame construction with bolstered steel side rails. The new frame is lighter and provides 10% more torsional rigidity.
On the space front, the SuperCrew cab has been stretched six inches to grow the interior to 57.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats and 47.9 inches of height (leaving enough room to lay in a 45-inch flatscreen television with room to spare). Out back the new pickup box, in addition to the aforementioned side steps and optional stowable bed extender, now has a capacity of 65.5 cubic feet. Full press release below — plus, as an added bonus — some video from Mike Levine of PickupTruck.com on the interior of the new F-150 Platinum edition.
NEW 2009 FORD F-150: MORE CAPABILITY, MORE CHOICE, MORE 'SMART' FEATURES FOR AMERICA'S TRUCK
The vision for Ford's truck team was clear: Redesign America's favorite truck inside and out to give customers unrivaled capability, unprecedented choice and a host of smart, game-changing features.
The result is the new 2009 Ford F-150, the new benchmark in the full-size pickup segment from the industry's truck leader - which has built more than 33 million F-Series pickups since 1948.
The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the new 2009 F-150 - from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior highlighted by a dramatic three-bar grille and more spacious, flexible and refined interior, to the unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels - including a new Platinum series that redefines truck luxury.
The improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. A new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis is the backbone that allows this tough truck to deliver more horsepower, better fuel economy and safety, and additional towing and payload capacity.
"The Ford F-150 is an American icon," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Ford is the truck leader, and F-150 customers expect and demand the best truck on the market.
"Our team not only met those expectations, they exceeded them with the new 2009 F-150," Fields added. "With Ford's product-led transformation in full swing, the new F-150 could not have come at a better time - for Ford and for our customers."
By Matt HardigreeThe 2009 Ford F-150 has arrived and, for potential buyers, there are two major stories here other than the new frame and exterior: more standard/available features and more model variations. Now standard is the AdvanceTrack with Roll Stability Control (RSC), Trailer Sway Control, the new Tailgate w/ box side steps and the new "Easy Fuel" capless fuel-filler system that uses a a sensor to automatically seal shut when the nozzle is removed. Available on all F-150's is the SYNC system (with all goodies), new 700-watt Sony sound system, integrated trailer brake controller (segment first on light-duty pickups) and rearview camera assist. There are going to be a total of 35variations of the new F-150 (XL, STX, FX4, XLT, Lariat, King Ranch), including the new Platinum series, which adds extra detailing and chrome on the outside and features such as ash wood accents, 10-way adjustable leather captain's chairs and standard 20-inch polished aluminum wheels.
In the power department, the 4.2L V6 is out as the base engine, with a 2-valve 4.6-liter V8 that is promised to produce more horsepower with the same fuel economy. The mid-range engine is a new 3-valve 4.6-liter and the top of the line is the familiar 5.4-liter Triton V8 which has been tweaked for more horsepower and now capable of running on E85 corngas blends. Across the range there's a fleet-average 1 mpg improvement in fuel economy, despite having no V6. Both diesel and EcoBoost options are planned for the F-150 in 2010. The new F-150 gets fully boxed frame construction with bolstered steel side rails. The new frame is lighter and provides 10% more torsional rigidity.
On the space front, the SuperCrew cab has been stretched six inches to grow the interior to 57.6 cubic feet of space behind the front seats and 47.9 inches of height (leaving enough room to lay in a 45-inch flatscreen television with room to spare). Out back the new pickup box, in addition to the aforementioned side steps and optional stowable bed extender, now has a capacity of 65.5 cubic feet. Full press release below — plus, as an added bonus — some video from Mike Levine of PickupTruck.com on the interior of the new F-150 Platinum edition.
NEW 2009 FORD F-150: MORE CAPABILITY, MORE CHOICE, MORE 'SMART' FEATURES FOR AMERICA'S TRUCK
The vision for Ford's truck team was clear: Redesign America's favorite truck inside and out to give customers unrivaled capability, unprecedented choice and a host of smart, game-changing features.
The result is the new 2009 Ford F-150, the new benchmark in the full-size pickup segment from the industry's truck leader - which has built more than 33 million F-Series pickups since 1948.
The Ford truck team adopted a holistic, 360-degree approach to revamping the new 2009 F-150 - from its segment-first features to the tough new exterior highlighted by a dramatic three-bar grille and more spacious, flexible and refined interior, to the unparalleled choice of cab styles and trim levels - including a new Platinum series that redefines truck luxury.
The improvements are just as dramatic beneath the sheet metal. A new high-strength, lighter-weight chassis is the backbone that allows this tough truck to deliver more horsepower, better fuel economy and safety, and additional towing and payload capacity.
"The Ford F-150 is an American icon," said Mark Fields, Ford's president of The Americas. "Ford is the truck leader, and F-150 customers expect and demand the best truck on the market.
"Our team not only met those expectations, they exceeded them with the new 2009 F-150," Fields added. "With Ford's product-led transformation in full swing, the new F-150 could not have come at a better time - for Ford and for our customers."
FIAT
2009 Fiat 500 Abarth Essesse, Paris Auto Show Preview
Full gallery after the jump
Getting the full street racing treatment, the Fiat Abarth Essesse is trimmed with a full aerodynamic body kit, complete with a hefty rear spoiler, Brembo brakes, and 17″ Alloy wheels. Under the hood the Fiat Abarth Essesse is expected to feature a 4-cylinder engine 1.4L turbo charged engine, producing a respectable 160-hp. According to Fiat, they already have 200 workshops toiling away to put the kits on the market, and hope to give the Mini Cooper S a run for it’s fierce little compact money.
Written by Suzanne Denbow
Surrendering to the endless bombardment of pre-Paris reveals, for the next few days leading up to the 2008 Paris Auto Show, RideLust will be exclusively covering all the leaks and teaser shots of the major impending Paris reveals. To kick things off, we’re starting with the 2009 Fiat 500 Abarth Essesse, Fiat’s sporty revision of the compact Fiat 500 Abarth that launched earlier this year.
Full gallery after the jump
Getting the full street racing treatment, the Fiat Abarth Essesse is trimmed with a full aerodynamic body kit, complete with a hefty rear spoiler, Brembo brakes, and 17″ Alloy wheels. Under the hood the Fiat Abarth Essesse is expected to feature a 4-cylinder engine 1.4L turbo charged engine, producing a respectable 160-hp. According to Fiat, they already have 200 workshops toiling away to put the kits on the market, and hope to give the Mini Cooper S a run for it’s fierce little compact money.
DODGE
LA Auto Show Preview: 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid
By Matt Hardigree
Standard interior appointments include wood-accented door panels and instrument-panel center stack, air conditioning, overhead console with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and Electronic Vehicle Information Center, front and rear LED lamps that can be individually aimed, MyGIG Entertainment System with navigation, floor console with rear power accessory outlet, and 60/40 third-row bench seat.
Standard equipment also includes leather-trimmed bucket seats, eight-way power driver's seat with memory, four-way power passenger seat, heated front-row seats, and a second-row bench seat, providing seating for eight.
Dodge Durango rides on a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame with independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, providing a turning radius of 37.5 ft. — shorter than a Honda Pilot. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and precise steering. Dodge Durango's rear suspension features coil springs and a solid rear axle secured with a Watt's linkage system, resulting in refined ride and handling characteristics.
Advanced safety and security features include standard Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program with Electronic Roll Mitigation and Trailer Sway Control, side-curtain air bags for all three rows, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System, Tire Pressure Monitoring system, Sentry Key® engine immobilizer, and ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera System.
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New 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI® Hybrid and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid
Chrysler LLC's First Production Hybrid Vehicles
• Hybrid fuel efficiency combined with full-size SUV performance, capability and utility
• HEMI® Hybrid delivers more than 25-percent overall fuel economy improvement
• Full-size SUVs boast nearly 40-percent fuel economy improvement in city
• HEMI Hybrid features Chrysler's Multi-displacement System (MDS)
Chrysler and Dodge are bursting onto the hybrid scene in a big way.
With the introduction of the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI® Hybrid and 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid, Chrysler LLC delivers two hybrid-electric vehicles that combine fuel-efficient advanced-hybrid technology with full-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) performance and capability.
"The new 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles will offer our customers the sought-after blend of performance, utility, capability and vastly improved fuel economy — all in one package," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "Combined with Chrysler's Multi-displacement System (MDS), our advanced, two-mode hybrid technology immediately delivers a more than 25-percent fuel economy improvement to our full-size SUVs — and up to a 40-percent improvement in the city."
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler's first entries in the hybrid market.
Capable of towing 6,000 lbs., the 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles deliver 385 horsepower — seamless, dependable power and performance on demand, in an efficient package. With an electrically variable transmission (featuring the best characteristics of an automatic transmission and hybrid drive) and two different hybrid modes of operation, the drive system dramatically improves fuel economy around town and at highway speeds.
The new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid is expected to deliver an overall fuel economy improvement of more than 25 percent, including an improvement of nearly 40 percent in the city. For customers who desire the performance and capability of a large SUV, the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles will reduce fuel consumption by several hundreds of gallons of gas per year.
By Matt HardigreeIt's Chrysler's other first production hybrid... and it's got a HEMI... it's got the same HEMI! The 2009 Durango HEMI Hybrid is maybe the cooler, rougher, slightly less-suburban brother of the Aspen HEMI Hybrid. Other than the big cross-hair grille and other cosmetic touches it's basically the same vehicle. This model also gets the two-mode 5.7-liter HEMI setup, the LED headlights, MyGIG entertainment system and other stock goodies such as a rear park assist camera, electronic roll mitigation and a bunch of airbags. Look for a deeper discussion of the two-mode HEMI hybrid system later today. Full press release after the jump.
Dodge Durango offers style, comfort, convenience and superior versatility in a real SUV, with three rows of seating and room for eight.
The Dodge Durango's styling is enhanced with a high beltline emphasizing its bold appearance, while short front and rear overhangs contribute to the vehicle's expression of concentrated power. Crisp angles and chiseled surfaces highlight a strong and confident front-end design. The Durango's signature crosshair grille stands out prominently, flanked by rectangular headlamps with dual-halogen bulbs wrapped around the corners of the fenders. The rear design of the Dodge Durango is marked by "afterburner" taillamps, and a chrome appliqué accentuating the rear liftgate.
The Dodge Durango's styling is enhanced with a high beltline emphasizing its bold appearance, while short front and rear overhangs contribute to the vehicle's expression of concentrated power. Crisp angles and chiseled surfaces highlight a strong and confident front-end design. The Durango's signature crosshair grille stands out prominently, flanked by rectangular headlamps with dual-halogen bulbs wrapped around the corners of the fenders. The rear design of the Dodge Durango is marked by "afterburner" taillamps, and a chrome appliqué accentuating the rear liftgate.
Standard interior appointments include wood-accented door panels and instrument-panel center stack, air conditioning, overhead console with HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and Electronic Vehicle Information Center, front and rear LED lamps that can be individually aimed, MyGIG Entertainment System with navigation, floor console with rear power accessory outlet, and 60/40 third-row bench seat.
Standard equipment also includes leather-trimmed bucket seats, eight-way power driver's seat with memory, four-way power passenger seat, heated front-row seats, and a second-row bench seat, providing seating for eight.
Dodge Durango rides on a torsionally stiff, fully hydroformed frame with independent front suspension and rack-and-pinion steering, providing a turning radius of 37.5 ft. — shorter than a Honda Pilot. Suspension and steering are finely tuned to deliver superior ride and precise steering. Dodge Durango's rear suspension features coil springs and a solid rear axle secured with a Watt's linkage system, resulting in refined ride and handling characteristics.
Advanced safety and security features include standard Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Stability Program with Electronic Roll Mitigation and Trailer Sway Control, side-curtain air bags for all three rows, ParkSense® Rear Park Assist System, Tire Pressure Monitoring system, Sentry Key® engine immobilizer, and ParkView™ Rear Back-up Camera System.
.jpg)
New 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI® Hybrid and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid
Chrysler LLC's First Production Hybrid Vehicles
• Hybrid fuel efficiency combined with full-size SUV performance, capability and utility
• HEMI® Hybrid delivers more than 25-percent overall fuel economy improvement
• Full-size SUVs boast nearly 40-percent fuel economy improvement in city
• HEMI Hybrid features Chrysler's Multi-displacement System (MDS)
Chrysler and Dodge are bursting onto the hybrid scene in a big way.
With the introduction of the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen HEMI® Hybrid and 2009 Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid, Chrysler LLC delivers two hybrid-electric vehicles that combine fuel-efficient advanced-hybrid technology with full-size sport-utility vehicle (SUV) performance and capability.
"The new 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles will offer our customers the sought-after blend of performance, utility, capability and vastly improved fuel economy — all in one package," said Frank Klegon, Executive Vice President - Product Development, Chrysler LLC. "Combined with Chrysler's Multi-displacement System (MDS), our advanced, two-mode hybrid technology immediately delivers a more than 25-percent fuel economy improvement to our full-size SUVs — and up to a 40-percent improvement in the city."
The 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles are Chrysler's first entries in the hybrid market.
Capable of towing 6,000 lbs., the 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles deliver 385 horsepower — seamless, dependable power and performance on demand, in an efficient package. With an electrically variable transmission (featuring the best characteristics of an automatic transmission and hybrid drive) and two different hybrid modes of operation, the drive system dramatically improves fuel economy around town and at highway speeds.
The new 5.7-liter HEMI Hybrid is expected to deliver an overall fuel economy improvement of more than 25 percent, including an improvement of nearly 40 percent in the city. For customers who desire the performance and capability of a large SUV, the Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango Hybrid vehicles will reduce fuel consumption by several hundreds of gallons of gas per year.
The renowned HEMI powerplant, in hybrid form, will continue to feature Chrysler's MDS, which allows the engine to seamlessly alternate between four-cylinder mode when less power is needed and V-8 mode when more power is in demand. The two-mode hybrid system provides assistance from electric motors allowing the HEMI V-8 to remain in four-cylinder mode more often than without a hybrid powertrain, improving overall fuel economy.
Built at the Newark Assembly Plant in Delaware, the new 2009 Chrysler Aspen and Dodge Durango HEMI Hybrid vehicles arrive in showrooms in mid-2008.
Monday, October 13, 2008
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