2009 Volkswagen Routan "Best minivan 2009"

The 2009 Volkswagen Routan minivan was officially unveiled at the Chicago Auto Show on February 6th, 2008. Volkswagen also confirmed at this event that the Routan would roll into VW dealer showrooms in early Q3 2008.
Drivetrain: Nothing Unexpected The Routan minivan will inherit its mechanical underpinnings from the Dodge/Chrysler minivan platform upon which it is based. That translates into 4.0 and 3.8 six-cylinder engine options, a six-speed automatic transmission, and a FWD configuration. Despite VW's well-deserved reputation as a leader in the use of diesel engines in their vehicles, a diesel powerplant won't be available.

Interior

VW Gets to Work One of the weak spots in Chrysler Group vehicles recently has been the bland interiors, which tend to feature lots of inexpensive plastics and other low-cost materials. (Aaron Gold complained about the low-rent interior plastics in his review of the 2008 Dodge Grand Caravan.)
VW representatives have publicly stated that the VW minivan will get a revamped interior, which will likely translate into the use of higher quality materials.
The Routan will not be getting either the Stow 'n Go or Swivel 'n Go features found in the Dodge/Chrylser minivans, however: the space underfloor occupied by the hardware for those options will be converted to additional storage space on the Routan.

Exterior
Big Changes Planned Although the overall exterior shape of the minivan is largely unchanged, VW has given the Routan some significant styling changes to align the vehicle with the rest of the vehicles in the VW portfolio. These visual changes also help differentiate the new VW minivan from its Dodge/Chrysler cousins.
Pricing: Starting at Under $25,000 Volkswagen stated that the Routan would be priced competitively, promising that is "...delivers a competitively priced entry into thei high volume segment with prices starting below $25,000." With the aforementioned improvements to the Routan's interior over Dodge and Chrysler models, top-end pricing could theoretically approach $40,000 for a loaded, fully-optioned vehicle.

2009 Dodge Charger

Dodge quietly unveiled an updated Charger for the 2009 model year. While the SXT model remains relatively unchanged for the new model year, the R/T trim level received a rather significant performance bump, while the SE has been downrated.The R/T’s 5.7L HEMI V8 remains for ’09, but more power will be on tap for the new model year, thanks to a new variable valve timing system. Horsepower is boosted from 340 to 368, while torque sees a 5 lb-ft increase to 395 lb-ft -- both figures trumping the Pontiac G8 GT’s 361 horsepower and 385 lb-ft of torque.This engine is equipped with Dodge's Multi-Displacement System (MDS), which can shut off four cylinders during highway cruising and light acceleration for better fuel economy.Despite the increase in power, the R/T will also see a boost in fuel economy. Whereas the 2008 Charger R/T returned 15/23 mpg city/highway, the new, more powerful ’09 model receives EPA ratings of 16 city 25 highway.However, the entry-level Charger SE will be taking a bit of a backslide. Its 2.7L V6 will carry over, but output in now rated at 178 horsepower, down from 190.

Despite having 12 fewer horses under your right foot, the Charger SE won’t be any easier on fuel, matching last year’s ratings of 18/26 city/highway.Exterior changes include newly designed taillights, with the car’s antenna moving to just above the rear window. Interior changes are minimal as well, with the SE now receiving the same interior as the R/T, and the R/T gaining satin silver trim.+The SXT continues with its 3.5-liter V6, delivering 250 horsepower.The R/T and SXT come with a five-speed automatic gearbox, while the SE has a more basic four-speed automatic.

2009 Dodge Caliber

The latest 2009 Dodge Caliber loses its all-wheel-drive model. Otherwise, this compact hatchback is largely unchanged for 2009. Caliber comes in SE, SXT, R/T, and high-performance SRT4 trim levels. All use a 4-cylinder engine and come with front-wheel drive. SE and SXT have a 148-hp 1.8-liter engine when equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission. These models get a 158-hp 2.0-liter engine when equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). R/T has a 172-hp 2.4-liter and comes only with the CVT. The AWD R/T has been discontinued. The SRT4 gets a turbocharged 285-hp 2.4 and a mandatory 6-speed manual. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. Available features include a fold-flat front passenger seat, ventilated glovebox, and removable cargo light/flashlight. Newly available for 2009 is Chrysler's uconnect multimedia suite, which can include a wireless cell phone link, 30-gigabyte hard drive for storing pictures and digital music files, and a navigation system with real-time traffic information.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. Compact Cars comprise popularly priced sedans, hatchbacks, and wagons with wheelbases 99.4 inches or longer.Our Best Buys include the Honda Civic, Nissan Versa, and Scion xB. Our Recommended picks are the Chevrolet HHR, Hyundai Elantra, and Mazda 3.New or significantly redesigned models include the Ford Focus (coupe), Hyundai Elantra Touring, Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, Pontiac Vibe, Toyota Corolla, Toyota Matrix, and Volkswagen Jetta SportWagen. The Volkswagen Jetta also adds a diesel engine.

2010 saab 9-3 crossover The Swedish new car

Due for its debut at next month's Geneva Motor Show, the Saab 9-3X was recently caught while undergoing cold weather testing in Sweden with barely a hint of camouflage material.As expected, the vehicle is essentially a current-generation 9-3 SportCombi sitting on raised suspension, and featuring protective body cladding and roof rails. Under the skin should be the latest version of the Haldex-sourced XWD four-wheel traction system. Power will likely be offered in a variety of petrol and diesel engines, though exactly which of General Motors' wide array of supplies will be found when it goes on sale later this year is yet unknown. Expect to see most of the engines from the 9-3 family, except for the 2.8L V6 turbocharged engine from the

TurboX. The prototype seen here is said to be running a 210hp (154kW) 2.0L petrol

engine. Otherwise the car is very similar to its 9-3 stablemates. Its likely target market will be the same buyers that are looking at Audi's Allroad and Volvo's XC70. The brand's somewhat up-market outfitting puts it above most of Subaru's offerings in terms of luxury, though the higher-end portion of the Outback range will also likely be on the list of those interested in this type of car.

"Jazz" Honda Fit

The title and the physical are familiar, but this isn’t the same Honda Fit that rewrote big sections of the subcompact playbook when it made its U.S. debut in 2006. Known as the Jazz in other world markets, that car had been around since 2001, making it due for a major makeover, and that’s exactly what it got. It’s essentially a brand-new car—longer wheelbase, a little bigger overall, slightly roomier within, a little more mass, a little more muscle, a little more hustle, with the same fuel economy.

We were impressed with the high-quality appointments and design that distinguished the interior of the first Fit, but the makeover raises both elements of the inner car by a couple of notches. It also improves the usefulness of this amazingly voluminous small car. For example, the rear seatbacks flop forward with a single flip of a lever. Honda has added an adjustment for steering-wheel reach, as well as rake, and there’s also a nav-system option.

The best part is that Honda’s updates haven’t diluted this car’s warrior spirit at all. The Fit wo

n’t contort facial muscles at full throttle, but its agility ranks at the top of the econocar charts. If there’s a better combination of thrift, practicality, and fun-to-drive, we haven’t seen it yet.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 5-door wagon

BASE PRICE: $15,220

ENGINE TYPE: SOHC 16-valve 1.5-liter inline-4
Power (SAE net): 117 bhp @ 6600 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 106 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 5-speed auto, 5-speed auto with manumatic shifting, 5-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 98.4 in Length: 161.6 in Width: 66.7 in Height: 60.0 in

Curb weight: 2500–2650 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 27–28/33–35 mpg

The grand news in the Corvette camp this year is apparently the ZR1 supercar, the 638-hp rocket that’s the capo di tutti capo of Vettes. We’re seduced by Chevy’s new missile, but we can’t include it in our 2009 awards because it has a base price that’s some 34 grand north of our maximum base price of $71,000 (2.5 times the average transaction price for all light-duty vehicles sold in 2008). That cutoff (down $1000 from 2007) also eliminates the Z06, an ’08 listee whose ’09 base price has crept over the line.

But never mind. Extensively updated last year, including a useful infusion of horsepower, the standard Corvette coupe and convertible continue to deliver a level of performance and style that’s unbeatable for the money.

Beyond its credentials as an outstanding high-performance buy, we’ve also been impressed by the ongoing improvements in Corvette assembly quality, materials, and everyday comfort.

Cadillac coined the “American Standard for the World” mantra, but in the world of sports cars, those words describe the Corvette.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 3-door targa or 2-door roadster

BASE PRICE: $47,895–$52,550

ENGINE TYPE: pushrod 16-valve 6.2-liter V-8
Power (SAE net): 430 or 436 bhp @ 5900 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 424 or 428 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 6-speed auto with manumatic shifting, 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 105.7 in Length: 174.6 in Width: 72.6 in Height: 49.0 in
Curb weight: 3200–3350 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 15–16/25–26 mpg

Honda Accord Best Car of All Time

By the time Accord won a spot on our first 10 Best Cars list. And it’s clear, 27 years later, that the praise still applies.

It’s equally clear that the Accord has evolved steadily to maintain its position as a mainstream pacesetter. From the compact sedan that won inaugural 10Best honors, the Accord has gone through seven generations en route to today’s coupe and sedan lineup, cars that are much bigger, much more refined, and much more powerful than their honorable ancestor. Indeed, in its makeover for the 2008 model year, the Accord sedan expanded to large-car status according to the EPA definition, which is based on a car’s interior volume.

Bigger is better from a family point of view, and we’re happy to report that the increase in size hasn’t diluted the crisp responses and exacting path accuracy that have always made Accords so satisfying to drive.

One proof of the Accord’s ongoing excellence is that through all those generations of models over 34 years, Honda has never felt any need to abandon that brand name. Another proof: 23 10Best trophies in 27 years. Outstanding barely describes this achievement.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan or 2-door coupe

BASE PRICE: $21,445–$29,475

ENGINES: DOHC 16-valve 2.4-liter inline-4, 177 or 190 hp, 161 or 162 lb-ft; SOHC 24-valve 3.5-liter V-6, 271 hp, 251 or 254 lb-ft

TRANSMISSIONS: 5-speed auto, 5- or 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 107.9–110.2 in Length: 190.9–194.3 in Width: 72.7–72.8 in Height:
Curb weight: 3250–3600 lb 56.4–58.1 in

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 17–22/25–31 mpg

2009 Jaguar XF new edition

In the 1st hands-on report concerning this brand new car [March 2008], we described the XF as “an athletic five-seater that defies ancient traditions.” That’s a key point, because Jaguar had been mired in a styling rut, perpetuating past designs to the point of irrelevance. We’ve heard a few pundits suggest the XF “doesn’t look like a Jaguar.” To which we say: Right, and none too soon.

Although there are elements from the XK sports car and the S-type sedan, the XF is essentially a new unibody, with distinctly higher platform rigidity than the S-type. It’s a little bigger than the S-type, on the same wheelbase, and a little roomier. Interior furnishings are quietly upscale, and there’s a sense of tailored comfort that’s common to high-end European sports sedans.s

As pleasant as it is to behold, the XF’s most compelling attribute is outstanding dynamics. Power, from either the standard 4.2-liter V-8 or a supercharged 4.2-liter V-8, ranges from sufficient to stimulating, and the Jag’s responses to zigs and zags are gracefully feline.

This is the first Jaguar to appear on our 10Best Cars honor roll. We suspect it won’t be in the last spot.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan

BASE PRICE: $49,975–$64,475

ENGINES: DOHC 32-valve 4.2-liter V-8, 300 hp, 310 lb-ft; supercharged and intercooled DOHC 32-valve 4.2-liter V-8, 420 hp, 413 lb-ft

TRANSMISSION: 6-speed auto with manumatic shifting

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 114.5 in Length: 195.3 in Width: 73.9 in Height: 57.5 in
Curb weight: 4100–4250 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 15–16/23–25 mpg

Hottest 2009 Mazda MX-5 Miata

Mazda installed new concept of the classic British roadster with the original Miata in 1989, and two decades later, the process is still in progress. Suspension tuning strikes an inspired balance between everyday comfort and track-day readiness, there’s enough power to make a track day rewarding, the transmission is race-car crisp, and the steering provides that rare sense of connection that makes the car an extension of the driver’s will.

Although it’s a two-seater with no superfluous sheetmetal, the Miata is roomy enough for two adults (NBA players need not apply), with enough space in the trunk for a couple of duffels. The convertible top has long set the standard for simplicity of manual use—it can be operated with one hand from the driver’s seat—and Mazda also offers a power-retractable hardtop. Like the softtop, it’s a gem, folding up or down in just 12 seconds.

Because it’s civilized enough for everyday use, the Miata is more than a track toy. And because it’s affordable—pricing starts at about $22,000, and even loaded with every option, it just crests $30,000—this is sports-car fun almost anyone can afford.

VEHICLE TYPE: front-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door roadster

ESTIMATED BASE PRICE: $22,000–$28,000

ENGINE TYPE: DOHC 16-valve 2.0-liter inline-4
Power (SAE net): 158 or 166 bhp @ 6700 rpm
Torque (SAE net): 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

TRANSMISSIONS: 6-speed auto with manumatic shifting; 5- or 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 91.7 in Length: 157.3 in Width: 67.7 in Height: 49.0–49.4 in
Curb weight: 2450–2650 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 20–22/27–28 mpg

Latest 2009 Porsche Boxster and Cayman

The hallmark of a true sports car is how well it involves its driver in the driving. Although the Boxster and the Cayman differ in character—roadster versus hardtop—they’re alike in terms of how well they communicate every nuance of mechanical information to the pilots and how accurately they convert driver inputs into response. This is the essence of the car-and-driver connection, and few sports cars do it better.

Neither of these mechanically identical mid-engined cousins can be called inexpensive. Pricing for a basic Boxster, with a 245-hp, 2.7-liter flat-six, isn’t much under $50,000, and a loaded Cayman S easily surpasses $70,000. But we have yet to meet an owner who thinks his car isn’t worth the money.

This is the 10th 10Best appearance for the Boxster, and the third straight for the Cayman. Aside from several electronic comfort/convenience options—XM satellite radio and Bluetooth, iPod, MP3, and USB connectivity—both cars enter the 2009 model year unchanged. However, direct injection and dual-clutch automated manual gearboxes are expected to be on the list of mechanical particulars sometime in early ’09.

VEHICLE TYPE: mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive, 2-passenger, 2-door roadster or 3-door hatchback

ESTIMATED BASE PRICE: $47,000–$61,000

ENGINES: DOHC 24-valve 2.7-liter flat-6, 245 hp, 201 lb-ft; DOHC 3.4-liter flat-6, 295 hp, 251 lb-ft

TRANSMISSIONS: 5-speed auto with manumatic shifting, 5- or 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS:
Wheelbase: 95.1 in Length: 171.6–172.1 in Width: 70.9 in Height: 50.9–51.4 in
Curb weight: 2900–3100 lb

FUEL ECONOMY:
EPA city/highway driving: 18–20/25–29 mpg

latest 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco

A latest 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco has come to life from the IROC concept that VW showed us back in 2005. The company claims to have remained true to that design, changing only the grille layout.The two-door sports coupe has a long roof that will allow it to seat four adults - comfortably, we hope. The Scirocco is similar in length to the Golf/Rabbit, though it's lower to the ground and wider (nearly the width of the Passat).The driver and up to three passengers each get their own sport seat that can be trimmed in black or brown leather; Alcantara and leather is also an option. With the rear seats up, visibility looks to be blocked by the fixed headrests, which is why you'll see parking sensors on the Scirocco's rear fascia. Cargo capacity also suffers at the hands of the styling gods, going from 27 cubic feet in two-place mode to 10.3 with the rear view blocked.A total of four turbocharged engines will be available - three gas and one diesel. Power output ranges from 120 to 197 hp in the gas TSIs, while the TDI makes 138 hp. Displacements haven't been disclosed, but we guess that these will be similar (if not identical) to those motors offered in Volkswagen's other small cars. All cars get a 7-speed DSG transmission and 17-inch wheels.Though based on the Golf/Rabbit, VW will offer "numerous innovative technologies" on the Scirocco, including adaptive chassis control, to set it apart from its siblings. A panoramic sunroof is also standard.History buffs will be interested to note that the original Scirocco debuted 34 years ago, also in Geneva. Another piece of trivia: the Scirocco and New Beetle are the only Vdubs to wear the company's logo on their hoods; all others have grille-mounted badges.

2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

All car manufacrurer that eager to sell cars in Europe faces the serious business of cutting carbon dioxide emissions before European Union lawmakers enact stringent emissions laws - the proposed level is 120 grams of CO2 per kilometer - in 2012. Mercedes-Benz continues its push toward powerful yet efficient cars with a comprehensive package it calls BlueEfficiency to reduce emissions and lower fuel consumption by 12 percent in its C-class line.With BlueEfficiency, M-B applies its prodigious engineering talents to improve weight reduction (lighter windshield and forged wheels), aerodynamic drag (a 7 percent better coefficient of 0.25), and rolling resistance. Direct injection also migrates from its exclusive use in the CLS- and E-class lines, to the bread-and-butter C-class in late 2008. M-B showed the new C350 CGI BlueEfficiency sedan (with spray-guided direct gas injection) at Geneva, a more powerful, torquier V-6 with 10 percent better fuel economy than the current C-class V-6.

2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK Class

New Mercedez GLK aimed primarily at BMW X3 and Acura RDX but also has Audi Q5, the upcoming Volvo XC60, Infiniti EX35 and Lexus RX350 in its sights.

The exterior is striking in its departure from the usual soft-edge design of the company’s SUV stable. This one is angular with strong lines, great proportions and a planted stance. It reminds me a little of the G-Class, but with all of the “ugly” removed.

The interior is well laid out with everything within easy reach of the driver. Heated front leather seats, multi-function steering wheel with controls for information and audio systems are standard. Inside trim on the launch vehicles is aluminum with wood trim available in later production.

Summary:

Year/Make/Model

2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK Class

Trim level

Base, Sport, Premium and Sport/Premium packages

Price range

$41,800 to $50,000

Options

navigation system, panoramic sunroof, 4Gig Music Register, rear entertainment system, media interface, parking assist, power tailgate

Competitors

Acura RDX, BMW X3, Land Rover LR2

Strong Points

Weak Points

• - great ride
• - excellent handling

• - short rear seat legroom if front seats moved back

Lamborghini Gallardo LP 560-4 Coupe

An exotic Lamborghini Gallardo is now available as a coupe or spyder convertible, with the coupe available in two trim levels: base and SE. Standard equipment includes 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, fully powered accessories and a CD audio system. A winter package adds heated mirrors and seats along with winter tires and specific wheels. A sport suspension, navigation system, carbon-ceramic brakes and rear back-up camera are also available. In keeping with its pedigree, the Gallardo's trim and paint can be further customized, too. The limited-production SE is similar to the base coupe mechanically, but has a specific two-tone color treatment and includes as standard equipment some of the base car's optional features.

Produced only for 2008 was the Gallardo Superleggera. This coupe-only model is modified for even better performance. It features 10 additional horsepower, slightly different suspension settings and an approximate 150-pound-lighter curb weight thanks to extensive use of carbon fiber and reduced feature content.

For optimum dynamic balance, the 5.0-liter V10 engine is positioned just aft of the driver. It develops 512 horsepower (522 for the Superleggera) and 376 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to all four wheels through a six-speed manual transmission. An automated, sequential-shifting manual "e-gear" transmission is also available, which can be placed in an automatic mode or shifted via steering-wheel-mounted paddles. Antilock brakes, traction control and stability control are standard safety fare, as are head-protecting side curtain airbags.

Audi's influence is obvious inside the Lamborghini Gallardo, with plenty of precisely fitting leather and soft-touch materials. Despite the fact that this is an exotic sports car, seating is comfortable enough to accommodate the occasional road trip. Though not as flamboyant as its extroverted exterior, the interior styling still befits a vehicle in this price range. Storage space is tight, though, with a minimal amount of room available behind the seats and in the nose-mounted trunk.

But once behind the wheel, you'll gladly leave everything behind in exchange for the sweet, sonorous symphony of its V10 at full throttle. With more than 500 horses at your command, the Gallardo is capable of spine-compressing speed in any gear. The big V10 and all-wheel-drive system do add quite a bit of mass, so it doesn't deliver the razor's-edge responsiveness of some of its rivals. And the powerful brakes can feel a bit inconsistent at the limit. But there's still plenty to like about the Gallardo. Its gearing practically begs you to rev the V10 for all it's worth, and its AWD system certainly gives it a clear advantage for safely wringing out maximum performance when the road ahead is slick and unfamiliar.

Latest Supercar "Lamborghini Reventon"

The new Lamborghini Reventon is latest Supercar. With a price tag about 1.4 million$, this car is for an exclusive group of high performance car fans. If the price tag wasn't enough Lamborghini is only releasing 20 of the cars, which have all been sold. It is possible that a they will release a few more but you better have been on the waiting list a year ago. It had been reported the Reventon Supercar has been modeled after the F-22 fight jet and taking a close look at the design it's hard to disagree. If a car ever looked like a fighter jet this is it. The name Reventón comes from that of the famous fighting bull that took the life famed bullfighter Felix Guzman in 1943.

Engine

It has an engine type V12, Displacement cu in (cc): 396 (6496), Power bhp (kW) at RPM: 650(478) / 8000 and Torque lb-ft (Nm) at RPM: 487(660) / 6000.

Brakes & Tires

Brakes F/R: ABS, vented disc/vented disc
Tires F-R: 245/35 ZR18 - 335/30 ZR18
Driveline: All Wheel Drive

Exterior Dimensions & Weight

Length × Width × Height in: 185 × 81 × 44.7
Weight lb (kg): 3671 (1665)

Lamborghini Reventon Performance

Acceleration 0-60 mph: 3.3
Top Speed mph (km/h): 211 (340)
Fuel Economy EPA city/highway mpg (l/100 km)

Brand New 2010 Ford Mustang

The latest installment in Ford’s pony-car story. In this chapter the current Mustang that borrows heavily from the 1965–67 version gets restyled to look like the 1970 Mustang—how original. A mid-’70s Mustang II can’t be far behind. An all-new interior purported to be far richer and more attractive will also debut.It's new design featured the Big V-8, rear-wheel drive, and it is affordable, attractive.The platform is still unchanged. It has a 4.0-liter V-6 powers base versions, with a new direct-injection, turbocharged Ecoboost 3.5-liter V-6 coming in 2010. By 2011 the Mustang should get Ford's new, more efficient modular 5.0-liter, SOHC V-8, good for about 350 horsepower. Be grateful you can still get a V-8 and rear-wheel drive for less than $30,000.

On the current Mustang the Ford guys thought having color-changing instrument lights was cutting-edge technology. It faces competition from Chevrolet Camaro, Dodge Challenger. The price of gas might be something you got to think about. The new Mustang is set to debut at the Los Angeles auto show this fall. Production and sales should begin next spring. Prices will start in the low-$20,000 range for a basic V-6 version and rise well over $30,000 for a loaded-up GT.

Latest Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder

Mitsubishi Press Release: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is giving its "attainable exotic" Eclipse Spyder a deeper sound, a bit more power and new safety features for 2009. Restyled front and rear bumper fascias distinguish the Eclipse Spyder models for 2009. With the freshened styling comes a deeper "voice" from a new dual exhaust system for the V6-powered Eclipse GT Spyder. The more powerful sound is accompanied by a minor boost in horsepower to 265 (up from 260). The Eclipse Spyder GT also gains standard high intensity discharge (HID) head lamps for 2009, further sharpening front styling while aiding nighttime visibility. Already equipped with a full array of proven safety technology, the Eclipse GT for 2009 gains Active Stability Control (ASC) as standard equipment.

The Eclipse Spyder continues to win over customers with its unique combination of striking design, thrilling performance, high-quality convertible top and excellent value. Sales of the Spyder increased by 8% in 2007 over 2006. Newly styled single-color front and rear bumper fascias lend a more defined appearance to the 4-cylinder Eclipse Spyder GS, model while the new two-tone bumper fascias for the GT model further emphasize its road-hungry stance.

The Eclipse Spyder echoes the concept-car design of its coupe sibling with sleek, taut, muscular lines and engaging details. The "attainable exotic" design of the fourth-generation Eclipse is further underscored for 2009 by the availability of three new colors, Maizen Blue pearl, Quick Silver metallic and Solar, a vibrant new yellow. Inside, all Eclipse models feature new interior cloth fabrics for a richer feel and appearance.

Two Levels of Spyder Performance

The Eclipse Spyder is offered in two trim levels. The GS model is powered by a 162-hp 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine teamed with a 5-speed manual transmission. A 4-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. The Eclipse Spyder GT challenges more expensive sports cars with its 265-horsepower, 3.8-liter V-6 engine teamed with a standard 6-speed manual transmission or an optional 5-speed automatic.

The GT's 260 lb.-ft. of peak torque gives this model immediate and forceful off-the-line response. With the standard 6-speed manual transmission, the Spyder GT can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds. Both Eclipse automatic transmissions feature Sportronic™ console shifters to allow manual gear shift control for a more engaging driving experience. The 4-cylinder and V-6 Eclipse Spyder engines both feature the Mitsubishi Innovative Valve Timing Electronic Control (MIVEC) system to help optimize engine efficiency and power across a broad engine speed range.

Rigid Body Structure, Sporty Chassis

Mitsubishi engineered the Eclipse platform to be built as a coupe or convertible. The rigid platform enables the four-wheel independent suspension to give the Eclipse Spyder both sporty road manners and a compliant, comfortable ride.

The multi-link rear suspension uses either a 20-mm (GS) or 21-mm (GT) stabilizer bar. Commensurate with its higher performance potential, the Spyder GT also uses larger ventilated rear disc brakes in place of the GS model's solid rear brake discs. The GS model is equipped as standard with 17-inch alloy wheels and 225/50R17 V-rated all-season tires; the GT model gets standard 18-inch alloy wheels, fitted with 235/45R18 V-rated all-season tires.

Exotic-Inspired, Internationally Praised Design

The Eclipse Spyder convincingly distinguishes itself from traditional, conservative or retro styling seen on some convertible sport models. With athletic fender arches, a wind tunnel-inspired front fascia and integrated rear lip spoiler, Eclipse Spyder carves out its own unique style.

Where the designs of other sport coupes and convertibles might attract attention for a brief time and then fade, the Eclipse design was recognized for its potential to endure. The Eclipse Spyder was one of two production cars to receive the GOOD DESIGN award from the renowned Chicago Athenaeum: Museum of Architecture and Design in 2006, its debut year. (The other was the BMW Z4 coupe.) An international jury selected entries in 18 categories from 25 countries.

Premium Automatic Top

Perhaps most impressive about the Eclipse Spyder's automatic top is that it folds completely out of sight under a flush-fitting powered tonneau cover in about 19 seconds. When raised, the top design gives the Eclipse a distinctive "chopped" speedster appearance. The Spyder's top is made of cloth, compared to vinyl used on some cars in this price segment. Its advanced multi-layer construction includes a full headliner to provide the quiet, snug interior feeling of a coupe when it is raised. The top is designed to resist "ballooning" at highway speed, and the glass rear window features a defroster.

Interior Designed to be Seen

Convertible owners expect interior styling to be attractive in its own right - something to enhance pride of ownership when driving top-down. To that end, the Eclipse Spyder's "attainable exotic" design theme continues inside. The wave-form instrument panel houses easy-to-reach controls and features distinctive motorcycle-inspired gauges and ice-blue nighttime illumination. The customer can choose from three available color schemes: Techno-Sport (charcoal), Hi-Q Sport (medium gray) and Avante Garde (terra cotta). The interior leather-wrapped steering wheel features audio system remote controls. High-back front bucket seats use open headrests for a sporty look and enhanced rear visibility.

High-Power Music Machine

Both Eclipse Spyder models feature as standard a 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate Premium Audio system with a 6-disc, in-dash CD changer that can play MP3 CDs, plus SIRIUS® Satellite Radio with a 6-month pre-paid subscription. The audio system is specifically tuned for the Eclipse Spyder and provides automatic sound equalization for top-up or top-down driving. An eight-inch subwoofer is integrated into the rear seat area as a design element.

The PUNCH® control and Digital Signal Processor (DSP) give the user total control over the subwoofer's "punch" level and provide custom music-genre equalization as well as sound field image settings, including: Normal, Stage, Live and Hall. A DSP sound setting memory function allows users to configure all eight DSP settings and save them in six preset locations for favorite CDs, artists, or music genres.

Mitsubishi Value

On both the Eclipse Spyder GS and GT models, the long list of standard equipment includes advanced dual-stage front air bags and seat-mounted side air bags, an anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brake-force distribution (EBD), air conditioning, the 650-watt (max.) Rockford-Fosgate audio system with SIRIUS Satellite Radio, cruise control, engine immobilizer, fog lamps, keyless entry and power windows, locks and mirrors.

In addition to GS-level equipment, the V-6-powered Eclipse Spyder GT features Active Stability Control (ASC), high intensity discharge (HID) head lamps, 18-inch alloy wheels, electronic traction control and a standard outside temperature and compass display.

The Eclipse GS and GT models each offer an option package that enhances interior comfort. The Leather Package for the Spyder GS combines leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and heated exterior mirrors, along with the outside temperature and compass displays that are standard on the GT.

The Eclipse Spyder GT's optional Premium Sport Package lives up to its billing by equipping this model with a 6-way power driver's seat, leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, automatic climate control system, aluminum pedals, and a machined wheel finish.

The Eclipse coupe and Eclipse Spyder, along with the Galant midsize sedans and the Endeavor crossover SUV, are all built in the Mitsubishi manufacturing plant in Normal, Ill. One of the industry's most flexible assembly plants, the Mitsubishi manufacturing facility is proudly celebrating its 20th anniversary of vehicle production in 2008.

Premium Warranty

Mitsubishi cars, sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks are backed by comprehensive new vehicle limited warranties. Mitsubishi Eclipse, Lancer, Galant, Endeavor and Outlander vehicles come with a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty; along with a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty. The high-performance Lancer Evolution is covered by a 5-year, 60,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, along with a 3-year/36,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty.

Mitsubishi pickup trucks are covered by a 5-year/60,000 mile bumper to bumper new vehicle limited warranty that also includes powertrain components.

Newest Mazda3 aims downsizers with big car features

Mazda applies the pressure to local large cars and the Toyota Corolla by including satellite navigation and Bluetooth as standard on half of its Mazda3 models and making stability control standard across the range.

Mazda is aiming to tempt more buyers away from Commodores and Falcons by equipping its Mazda3 with features more commonly associated with big luxury cars.














Satellite navigation and Bluetooth mobile connectivity will be standard features on the Maxx Sport and SP25 variants, which will account for more than half the sales of the next-generation Mazda3 that goes on sale in April. Mazda has enhanced the trim levels of its new 3 to attract buyers who are considering opting for a smaller car but are concerned about missing luxury features they’ve become accustomed to.
“We’re seeing a strong trend with people downsizing for better fuel economy,” says Mazda Australia spokesman Glenn Butler.

“These buyers, however, are not prepared to give up luxury items such as sunroofs, leather seats and satellite navigation. So we see a potential market for that.”
Mazda hopes the 3’s standard luxury and safety features will also help close the gap to the market-leading Corolla.

“Those features [sat-nav and Bluetooth], along with stability control standard across the range, give us a big advantage over the biggest-selling car in the small-car segment,” says Butler.
The Corolla offers Bluetooth as standard on some models, though sat-nav is a dealer-fit option even on the range-topping Ultima, and stability control is not standard on every model.
Mazda Australia is still in negotiations with Japan HQ about pricing, which has been complicated by the collapse of the dollar against the yen.

Mazda3 prices were already increased in January – from between $500 and $1000 depending on model – and the company is hoping to avoid further increases for a car that sits in Australia’s most competitive vehicle segment.

The new Mazda3 line-up will be familiar, starting with the entry-level Neo followed by the Maxx and Maxx Sport. Each will be powered by a 108kW 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. A diesel model with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder engine will have similar specifications to the Maxx, and the SP23 makes way for an SP25 model – acknowledging an upgrade from a 115kW 2.3-litre to a 2.5-litre engine with 122kW.

A six-speed manual is the standard transmission, with a five-speed auto replacing a four-speeder as an option. The SP25 will be a short-lived range-topping model. The new Mazda3 MPS hot-hatch arrives in September. The Mazda3 and Toyota Corolla comprised more than a third of small-car sales in 2008, while the 3 accounts for 40 per cent of Mazda’s annual sales volume. The Mazda was Australia’s best-selling car in January, and the company has brought forward the new Mazda3’s onsale date by two months because it is running out of stock of the current model.

Hybrid Cars Add Ons You May Need

Hybrid cars were not created equal. Some produce more power. Some are designed for maximum fuel efficiency. Some are built for city driving; others are made to turn heads. Most have unique features that further improve the quality of driving and fuel economy. When you are shopping for one, take note of the following features.

Regenerative braking system. In conventional gasoline-powered cars, all the kinetic energy (energy in motion) is lost and wasted during braking. Hybrid cars recapture this kinetic energy through the regenerative braking system back to the battery for future use. The regenerative braking system increases fuel economy and reduces wear to the brakes.

Low-rolling resistance tires. Tires are often not seen as a major factor in increasing the fuel economy. But in hybrid cars, they use low-rolling resistance tires to improve gas mileage. These stiffer, narrower, and inflated tires reduce the drag against the ground.

Fuel economy. Not all hybrids are fuel efficient. Some are made to perform. And even if the hybrids are made to get the longest miles out of every gallon of gas, some are still better than others. For example, the Ford Escape Hybrid runs 34 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on highway. Toyota Prius runs 48 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on highway. The Honda Civic Hybrid runs 40 mpg in the city and 45 mpg on highway. When choosing what hybrid car to buy, take note of these differences.

Periodic engine shut off. Idling consumes fuel too. So, most hybrid cars automatically turn off its combustion engine temporarily during stops. A hybrid car with this feature is most ideal if you drive in stop-and-go traffic most of the time.

Smaller and more efficient engine. Logically, the car does not actually need a V6 or a V8 in order to run because most of the time, your car only requires 20 hp to move. The extra horsepower is only needed during acceleration. This is the reason why hybrid cars are so efficient. They use smaller engines.

Safety, Comfort, and Space. These are 3 issues that are questionable to hybrid cars. In general, hybrid cars are as safe, as comfortable, and as spacious as their non-hybrid counterpart. But if you are more concerned about not getting these 3 in a hybrid car, you should not have a problem. There are several hybrid cars on the market today that focus on these 3 areas.

MASERATI PRESENTS THE LATEST GRANTURISMO S

(from Maserati Press Release)

A year after the unveiling of the GranTurismo, Maserati will be back at the Geneva International Motorshow with yet another world premiere, the GranTurismo S. The ultimate expression of the Trident coupe’s sportiness shifts the emphasis onto performance and driving enjoyment.

Two main novelties are at the heart of the new Maserati: the 440 hp V8 4.7 engine and the electro-actuated gearbox with fast MC-Shift arranged in the transaxle layout typical of high-performance sports cars that represents the technological DNA of all Maseratis.

The GranTurismo S makes use of the high-performance brake system developed in collaboration with Brembo and introduced for the first time in the automotive field on the Maserati Quattroporte Sport GT S. The system features front brake discs made with dual-cast technology – a dual casting of cast iron and aluminum, paired with aluminum mono-bloc 6-piston brake callipers, ensuring optimised braking performance.

On the exterior the Maserati GranTurismo S is characterized by a number of aesthetic modifications that, although discrete, are highly effective and make the car body appear sportier without abandoning the sleekness of the lines masterfully designed by Pininfarina.

The interior upholstered in Poltrona Frau leather and Alcantara reflects the sporty flair of the Maserati GranTurismo S; the figure-hugging front and rear seats are distinguished by their new dynamic design with horizontal piping on the seats and seatbacks.

Auto for year 2010

2012 Chevrolet Spark

Government nannies in the U.S. say that people want smaller, more efficient cars. We’ll test that theory in 2011 when the Spark goes on sale as a 2012 model. It will first get a shakedown run in Europe, where the people’s desire for small cars has been proven—and forced by fuel prices two to three times as high as ours. It will be one of the smallest Chevrolets ever sold in the U.S.—and one of the most expressive small cars on the market.

Ford Losis Max Concept

Europe historically gets all the fun blue oval stuff, but the funky Iosis Max has global implications as a harbinger of what the next worldly Focus might look like when it comes to the U.S. in a couple of years. And with Ford’s next EcoBoost engine—a turbocharged, direct-injected 1.6-liter four making 180 hp—tucked under the glitzy concept-car wrapper, the little hatch gives us hope that some of the smaller, efficient vehicles we’ll soon be driving won’t hurt our eyes or bore us to drive.

Infiniti Essense Concept

No, it’s not a gussied up Nissan GT-R with an Infiniti badge. But the Essence does sport a twin-turbocharged V-6 like Godzilla and hints—quite favorably, we think—at the future design ethos of Nissan’s luxury arm. More important, the hybrid-electric element of the concept’s combined 592-hp powertrain is nearly identical in concept to—although more powerful than—the production system that will appear on future Infiniti models, such as the redesigned M35/45 sedan expected later this year. We like it. Cheers, Infiniti, to another 20 years in the biz.

Kia No. 3 Concept

This little Kia continues the styling metamorphosis the Korean brand is experiencing under new design chief Peter Schreyer. A production version will go on sale early next year in Europe, where it will battle the Toyota Yaris, the Honda Fit, and the Ford Fiesta. If it were to come to the U.S., this attractive five-door would likely replace the relatively dowdy Rio at the bottom of Kia’s U.S. lineup, a model swap we’d certainly endorse.

2010 Mazdaspeed 3

A repeat 10Best Cars champion, the current Mazdaspeed 3 is one of our favorite hot hatches and has won every comparison test it’s ever participated in. The new model debuting in Geneva gives us another reason to celebrate this micro-monster but leaves the basic formula largely untouched. Once again only available as a five-door hatch, the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 will be powered by the same 264-hp turbo four that motivates the current car.

2010 Mercedez-Benz E- class

Mixing styling elements from the S-class and C-class, Mercedes’ new E sedan drops the ovoid front for one that’s more rectangular. We’re not yet sold on it, as the new creased look is a significant departure from the elegant, swoopy appearance of the current model. This ninth-gen car will serve as the debut of new Mercedes lane-departure warning, drowsy-driver detection, and adaptive high-beam systems. Powertrains will carry over.

2010 Mercedez Benz E-Class coupe

The E sedan wasn’t the only important three-pointed-star debut in Geneva this year. Mercedes also brought its E-class coupe, which will replace the CLK in the company’s lineup. It’s mostly an E in name and styling, though, since the mid-size coupe is still largely based on C-class underpinnings. We think the new lines work better here than on the sedan, resembling the brand’s big CL two-door from more than one angle. Expect the same gaggle of safety systems as offered on the sedan.

2011 Opel Ampera

Developing the Chevrolet Volt’s extended-range Voltec architecture has been expensive for General Motors, so it’s no surprise the company would seek to more quickly recover its costs by building other models using the technology. First came the Cadillac Converj concept, and now this Opel. Although the Ampera looks similar to the Volt elsewhere, the Opel wears a more cutting-edge—and more attractive—front end. It goes on sale in Europe in 2011 and hits the U.K. as a right-hand-drive Vauxhall a year later.

Rolls-Royce 200ex Concept

It’s not often the ultra-luxury builder even makes tweaks to its flagship Phantom (although it just did), let alone introduces an all-new model. Hardly a concept, the 200EX previews the upcoming “baby” Roller that will go on sale in 2010. At 212.6 inches long and powered by an all-new V-12, the 200EX only counts as a baby compared with the gargantuan Phantom. Set to do battle with the forthcoming Bentley Arnage update, it should sticker between $250,000 and $280,000.

2010 Volkswagen GTI

Volkswagen is sure to grow the GTI badge’s worldwide cult following with this sixth-generation version. Retaining the current direct-injected turbo 2.0-liter four, the new GTI will get an extra 10 hp for a total of 210. Even with the power bump, the GTI lags behind most of its competitors, but a smooth power delivery and a well-tuned overall package have earned the current GTI three consecutive 10Best Cars appearances. We expect to be similarly pleased when the latest one hits our shores in late 2009.

10 Stunningly Fastest Sports Cars on Earth

Bugatti Veyron

Top Speed: 252.2 mph

1001 Horsepower

No doubt, the fastest and most powerful production car ever makes the top of the list. I wonder when Koenigsegg will decide to take the #1 position and beef up the CCX.

Koenigsegg CCX

Top Speed: 250 mph

900 Horsepower

As I said above, I expect Koenigsegg to take the number one spot eventually; those insane Swedes aren’t fooling around.

Saleen S7 Twin-Turbo

Top Speed: 248 mph

750 Horsepower

VCars didn’t specify that it’s an S7 Twin-Turbo, but that’s what they’re talking about. This is one bad-ass car.

McLaren F1

Top Speed: 240.14

620 Horsepower

Can you believe this? The McLaren F1 was made in 1994, 13 years ago, and it’s still one of the fastest cars in the world. This happens to be the first car on this list I would purchase if I had the cash. Then I’d buy the Koenigsegg.

Ferrari Enzo

Top Speed: 217 mph

657 Horsepower

Ferrari’s newest Mega-Car seems to have people crashing it left and right, but the drivers always walk away fine (physically.) With only 399 of these ever made, the value of the car goes up with each crash.

Jaguar XJ220

Top Speed: 217 mph

549 Horsepower

Even older than the McLaren F1, the Jaguar XJ220 has been on this list since 1992. Be sure to check out the Pininfarina version as well.

Pagani Zonda F

Top Speed: 215 mph

602 Horsepower

Yes, I know this is a picture of the Roadster, not the Zonda F. With Pagani’s new Zonda R on the way, the Zonda might be creeping up on this list faster than Bugatti can say “We need bigger turbos.”

Lamborghini Murcielago

Top Speed: 213

633 Horsepower

I think VCars got a little bit confused here. The title suggests they mean the standard Murcielago, but the top speed and pictures tell us they’re talking about the LP640. Let’s clear this up a bit…the horsepower on the LP640 is 640 (hence the name,) and the hp rating on the standard Murcielago is 580.

Porsche Carrera GT

Top Speed: 209 mph

605 Horsepower

Porsche’s fastest, most attractive (and most expensive) car to date comes in at #9.

McLaren Mercedes SLR

Top Speed: 207 mph

626 Horsepower