Scion XD

Hi Guys. Happy to meet you all with an interesting article about the latest cars available in the market. Not only that, but you and your friends needn't be contortionists to travel in the Scion xD, as was the case when the Yugo and its brethren inhabited the econobox niche. Not only does the xD comfortably seat four, but the rear seat can recline, or slide forward six inches. Understand that purchasing a Scion xD won't make you the envy of your block, nor will you be king of the road with 128 horsepower at your disposal. However, if you have a thing for well-built, reliable, cheap vehicles that burn gasoline like it's an expensive, non-renewable fossil fuel, you owe it to yourself to check out Scion xD.So it's a revelation to drive the new Scion XDand discover $14,550 buys you Toyota-level quality, a peppy 1.8-liter, double overhead cam four-banger, and keyless remote entry, power windows, air conditioning and an iPod connector on the standard-equipment list. Thank you for seeing this post. Hope you like it. Paste your comments here.

Fiat Bravo

Hi guys...Happy to meet you all with an interesting article. In the series of latest cars available in the world, here comes Fiat Bravo. The car comes under the hatchback model, which is having both diesel and petrol engines.The car is equipped with a front disc and rear drum brakes. And while talking about the security of the car, it is equipped with a four air bags and ABS anti lock braking system is also available. The car is having an Ac with climate control and rear defogger and rear wiper. Its also equipped with fog lamps and the engine is having the specifications of

Displacement:	1910cc, 4 cyl
Engine Type:	Diesel
Maximum Power:	150bhp@4000rpm
Maximum Torque:	305nm@2000rpm

The car tank capacity is about 58lts and we can go upto a maximum speed of 190.The car is priced around1,750,000 indian rupees.Thank for seeing this post..Happy for your visit...Please fill your comments in the cbox...

Fiat Linea

Hi guys..happy to meet you all with an interesting article...In the series of latest cars available in the world here comes Fiat Linea. After the Fiat 500 the Fiat corporation introduces this saloon model car to the indian market by this december.The new model clearly has an international vocation; it was designed by the Fiat Style Centre, and its exterior styling is elegant, dynamic and typically ‘Italian’. The aim was to appeal to the public with uncluttered, smooth lines which confirm the new Fiat family feeeling while they offer a new reading of the stylistic elements of the great Italian motoring tradition in the saloon segment. This extraordinary stylistic heritage has now produced the Fiat Linea, a 4-door saloon that is sleek and elegant, but with generous dimensions that put it at the top of its class: it is 4.56 metres long, 1.73 metres wide, 1.5 metres tall and has a wheelbase of 2.6 metres, as well as a 500 litre luggage compartment. The Fiat Linea range is very comprehensive to cater for a clientele that considers cars of this class as a real investment, because it represents the family’s main car, and it will adapt to the various markets where it is sold. In most of these, at its launch, the range will offer two engines (90 bhp 1.3 Multijet and 77 bhp 1.4 16v), three specifications (Active, Dynamic and Emotion), and 11 body colours. The range also proposes equipment worthy of a higher segment, such as certain sophisticated climate and infotainment devices that improve the comfort and quality of the time spent on board.The car includes the following featrues
Automatic climate control
Blue&Me® system with USB port
Radio with CD-player
Cruise Control down to rain
Dusk and Parking sensors.

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Jaguar S Type

Hi to all...happy to see you guys with an interesting article about the Jaguar S type...in my older posts i furnish the details about the Jaguar XF...as you guys known something about the Jaguar cars, lets see the features of the car...
The 2008 model year will be the last for the Jaguar S-type Its replacement, the sharper-edged, more contemporary-looking XF, has arrived. So if the rounded, retro lines of the S-Type have oozed into your heart, this is your last chance to bring one home brand-new. You could buy another mid-size luxury sedan with similar performance, but you won't find another that looks anything like this. And that, really, is the point of any Jaguar: If you are charmed by its looks, then there is no alternative.

But even from a more objective point of view, we like the Jaguar S-Type. It's a comfortable car, it handles well, and it makes a statement when it pulls up to a five-star hotel. The base 3.0-liter V6 delivers responsive performance, thanks partly to the superb six-speed automatic transmission. Opt for the 4.2 model and you get thrilling performance from its powerful V8 engine. If that isn't enough, you can spring for the high-performance S-Type R, which boasts a supercharged engine, adaptive sports suspension, and bigger front brakes.

Jaguar is marking the S-Type's departure with some final styling changes. All 2008 S-Types will wear the more conspicuously racy three-scoop front bumper that formerly belonged exclusively to the super-performance S-Type R. Eighteen-inch wheels have also been made standard; and 19's are now optional on base V6 and V8 models, and standard on the R. Additionally, the final 750 S-Types produced will be specially equipped Satin Editions, with distinctive interior trim and exterior colors.

We'll miss the S-Type which, in its ten year life span improved in some way almost every year. Even when it was launched in 1999 we praised its beautiful exterior and rich interior, and enthused over its sporty handling. Jaguar re-engineered the S-Type for 2003, and again revamped its styling for 2005, when the wonderful ZF six-speed automatic transmission became standard across the range. Additional refinements arrived with the 2006 models: The premium-level 4.2 liter V8 was re-tuned just slightly to deliver a nicely even 300 and 400 horsepower in its naturally aspirated and supercharged forms, respectively. At the same time, both the base 3.0-liter V6 and the atmospheric V8 achieved ULEV emissions status. And a new Conti-Teves braking system promised even more stopping power. Last year, 2007, saw significant upgrades in standard equipment.Thank you for seeing this post...please fill your comments in the cbox...happy for your visit...

Tata Indica Vista

Hi guys...Happy to meet you guys with an interesting article about newly introduced Indica vista.In this car all the dimensions and several things are completely modified by the tata motors corporation. As you can see the cluster is moved from the right position to the center as the passengers sitting in the rear side also able to see the tachometer of the car and can effectively controlling the speed of the car. And moreover driver can be able to see up to head lights of the car. The Indica Vista is introduced in three variants, they are Terra,Aqua and Aura. In those models Aura is the top end model which is equipped with four power windows,center locking and defogger. The passengers are entertained by the 2-din mp3-cd system, which we can use USB's also. It is also having height adjustable driver seat, its the one of the advantages. In aqua power windows are available to the front two windows only. In Terra all the windows are manual. And we came to know about the engine, 1.4 liters MPFI engine and 1.3 liters Quadrajet engine and 1.2 liters Tdi engine. Thank you for visiting this blog, Please fill your comments in the cbox. Air bags and Anti lock braking system are not available in the new Indica Vista, but after 6 months its been fitted with the car.

Car Maintanance Tips

Hi guys...Happy to meet you again with an interesting article about the car maintanance...everyone in the world are having the dream to buy a car...before buying a car everybody want to know how to maintain the car...due to the reduction in the cars price everyone gonna buy car...here is a list of the various auto maintanance tips as follows:

Check the engine oil at regular intervals: The performance of the car engine is largely dependent upon the engine oil. The decrease in the level of engine oil is usually shown by an indicator. For effective performance of the engine it is an absolute necessity that you keep on changing the engine oil at regular intervals. It is advisable that you check the engine oil level at an interval of 10 to 15 days. Check the working of the car brakes: The braking system of the cars are quite important in the perspective of security. You must keep on looking into a number of factors like whether the brake pedal is too soft to press or whether it makes a squeaking noise. Often it is seen that brakes with low brake fluids tend to become soft. The accumulation of dust on the car breaks also results in the production of abnormal sounds coming from the brakes while they are pressed. If on pressing the brakes your car pulls on to a side then there may be a problem with the adjustment of the brake clearance. Regularly keep on checking the electrical system of the car: The electrical system of the car is one of the inherent parts of the car that is regularly needed to be checked to ensure hassle free driving and high level performance. Check the condition of the tires Always make it sure that the tires of your car are filled with recommended air pressure. Both low and high pressure will hamper smooth driving. Apart from these you should also do regular servicing of your car for its efficient performance.Thank you for seeing this post...please fill your comments in the cbox...happy for your visit...

How to estimate Cars Mileage

Hi to all car lovers... Every one knows about the oil price hike in the world...in order to tackle this problem we need a car which gives us high mileage...already we are having the car which gives us 17.6 km/litre mileage...shall i need to tell the name of the car? itz Maruthi Suzuki Alto...here some tips for you to How to estimate car's mileage and to maintain..."What is my car's mileage?" is a question that every car owner has on the brain, regardless of financial status or number of cars owned. When it comes to a car's mileage, the owner is curious. Estimating your car's mileage/fuel economy is simple if you know how to go about it. Even if you really don't care about your car's mileage, we suggest you estimate your car's mileage once in a while; it is a good indicator of your car's health. If your car's fuel consumption is considerably higher than normal, you can safely assume that all is not right with the engine and it might spell trouble for you in the near future. Another point of consideration is the environment - cars with bad fuel efficiency tend to pollute the environment more, and while we aren’t exactly tree-huggers, we believe that you shouldn’t harm the environment willfully.

Here is a simple way of estimating a car's mileage.

Full-to-Full:

1. Go to the filling station and fill the fuel tank completely. Completely means up to the brim!
2. As soon as you enter your car, note the odometer reading (kilometers done) before starting the engine. This reading is the starting point. If you have a tripmeter or two, you can reset it to read ‘zero.’
3. Use your car as you usually do.
4. Once your fuel gauge indicates a half- or quarter-full tank, visit a nearby filling station, preferably the same one you tanked up at the last time. This will help reduce the error.
5. Note down the quantity of fuel it takes to fill the tank up to the brim.
6. Note odometer reading once again. This is the end point.
7. Now calculate average/mileage/fuel economy of your car as the difference between the starting and end points in km divided by the amount of fuel required to fill the tank up at the end point, in litres, OR average fuel consumption = (end point – starting point) / Fuel quantity
8. Alternatively, divide the tripmeter’s reading by the number of litres of fuel required to top up the second time.

Note: You can carry out the same procedure once with the air-con on and a second time with it off, to calculate the effect the air-conditioner has on your car’s fuel consumption..Thank you for seeing this post...fill your comments in the cbox...happy for your visit...

Toyota Prius

Hi to all...glad to meet you guys with an interesting article about the Toyota Prius...Toyota comes with this stylish car...lets see about the features of the car and details...
The Toyota Prius is an impressive technological feat. It offers much better fuel economy than conventional cars and radically less environmental impact. We wouldn't have expected the pairing a small gas engine with a battery-powered motor to create a social phenomenon, but that's what the Prius has done, and it continues to be in demand.

The Prius is the best-selling gas-electric hybrid in the United States and in the world. Toyota sold just 5,600 in 2001, but annual sales expanded to 54,000 in 2004 and 108,000 in 2005. Sales for the first quarter of 2008 were up from the same period in 2007.

Introduced as a 2001 model, the Prius was redesigned for 2004 and updated for 2006. The 2008 Prius gets some new options, notably leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

We find the Prius to be a comfortable car that's easy to like and live with. It's roomy, with adult-size back seats and lots of cargo space. It's pleasant to look at, with sleek, futuristic styling, easy to spot in a parking lot. In short, we like the Prius.

The EPA ratings for the 2008 Prius are 48 mpg City, 45 mpg Highway, and we're guessing everyday fuel economy for most owners should fall somewhere between 40 and 50 mpg. The test procedure used until recently by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency exaggerated the fuel efficiency of all hybrids, but the EPA has revised its test procedures to more closely simulate modern driving habits.

While the Prius excels at fuel economy, its performance in terms of emissions is even better. Prius is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV); meaning that it meets the Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEV) exhaust standard; plus a zero evaporative emissions standard, a 150,000-mile durability demonstration, and an extended emissions system warranty. That makes the Prius an excellent choice for buyers who want to reduce air pollution and America's dependence on oil. The Prius isn't cheap, but it costs less than a lot of other vehicles that are commonly promoted as family transportation.

It's important to understand that the Prius is not an electric car. You never plug it in. And there's no worry about driving beyond the range of the battery. A small, highly efficient four-cylinder gasoline engine charges the battery as you drive. No special knowledge is needed to drive the Prius. It works just like a regular car: You get in, you twist the key, you put the lever in Drive and you go. When it gets low on gas, you fill it up.Thank you for seeing this post...hope you like it..please fill your comments in the cbox...thank you for your cooperation...

Cadillac STS

Hi to all...Glad to meet you with an interesting article about the cars...in this we are going to seeabout the features of the car Cadillac's STS...lets see the features of the car...Cadillac's current-generation STS was the first to use a rear-wheel-drive chassis, which at last put it on equal footing with big-name players such as the Mercedes Benz E-class, the Lexus GS, and the BMW 5-series. That's very tough competition and, at the midpoint in its season, the STS is getting some fortification.

For 2008, the STS attempts to dazzle its opponents with the chrome wattage of its bigger, fancier grille, chrome door handles, and--today's must-have style accessory--chrome front fender vents. Inside, there's revised wood trim and a new steering wheel. But the real substance comes in the form of mechanical upgrades, starting with a new engine that produces 302 hp.

That figure, by the way, is for the V-6, which Cadillac has switched to direct injection, adding 47 hp and 20 lb-ft of torque in the process. That makes the 3.6-liter GM's most powerful production V-6 ever. Now paired with a six-speed transmission, it provides the STS with brisk acceleration--lively enough to catch the Mercedes-Benz E350 sedan, which also claims a 6.5-second 0-to-60-mph time.

To quicken the STS's reflexes, Cadillac offers a performance handling package, which firms up the suspension and swaps in the larger Brembo brakes from the STS-V. With it, the ride is a bit more tied down but large body motions aren't controlled as well as they are with the V-8 model's Magnetic Ride Control in performance mode. Taking a page from BMW, the STS now offers active steering, although that's reserved for V-8-powered, all-wheel-drive models. Besides varying the steering ratio, this system also works in conjunction with Stabilitrak to steer the front wheels (by up to 3 degrees) into a skid, which is not as creepy as it sounds. Also new on the safety front is a lane-departure warning system (useful, particularly for cell-phone yakkers) and a blind-spot warning system (less useful, due to the subtlety of its warning light on the sideview mirrors).None of these changes will have the STS running away from the field, but the more potent V-6 makes the base car (which accounts for four out of five sales) a much more solid player. In this league, that's doing pretty well for a rookie.

Infiniti G35

Hi guys happy to meet u all with an interesting article...in the latest car series here comes Infiniti G35...Lets see about the features of the car...its more than a car...One spouse prefers SUVs; the other craves classic sport-sedan driving delights. While satisfying both prerogatives sounds like a job for Dr. Phil, walking the perilous line between sport and utility is precisely what the infiniti G35 accomplishes.

Infiniti has staked out a microscopic site of unclaimed turf in the gridlocked crossover segment. Sizewise, the new EX is a low-riding BMW X3. Stylewise, it's an infiniti G35 sedan with a bobbed tail and a hatch. Philosophically, it's a machine with the uncanny ability to maintain garage goodwill.

Mechanically, this is another shuffle of the Nissan/Infiniti FM-platform components deck. Take a front suspension from the G, bolt on a rear suspension from the FX, stir in a fourth-generation 3.5-liter V-6, and add a smart five-speed manu-matic. Keep the curb weight below two tons, whip the energy supply toward 300 hp, and avoid the severe FX suspension settings that intimidate the weak of spirit. Season liberally with electronic goodies for the gadget-afflicted.

Tidy dimensions keep the EX35 from being the jack of all SUV skills. There is no macho off-road pretense. The back seat is roomy enough for two, although adult-size shoes must be twisted to clear the narrow door openings. While power-folding rear seats make the most of the cargo hold, the 16.8 cubic feet available (with all seats in use) falls short of a sprawling family's needs. This is an SUV for two camps: those wishing to curb a supersize habit and car folks dipping a toe in crossover waters.

Utility sacrifices are well-rewarded. The EX's speed-sensitive steering maintains a truthful dialogue with the road, especially when the optional all-wheel drive is eschewed. Thanks to a reasonably low center of gravity, firm dampers, and ample roll resistance, the body never flops like a fish out of water. The automatic transmission offers well-spaced ratios, crisp shifts, an authoritative sport mode, and rev matching on downshifts. The engine loves every unbridled run to its 7500-rpm redline. Driving the optional eighteen-inch, V-rated Dunlop SP Sport tires through their grip limit, it's easy to forget that you're wearing crossover attire.

Four interior hues are available with black-lacquered plastic and textured aluminum or real maple trim. The optional navigation system includes a 9.3-gigabyte hard drive for music storage. An eleven-speaker Bose sound system offers iPod connectivity via a USB port. Two innovations are an Around View Monitor that mixes four video-camera feeds into one bird's-eye look at your immediate surroundings and a Lane Departure Prevention system that nudges the brakes to curtail unintended lane changes.

With the long-running sport versus utility dispute solved by Infiniti's EX35, modern couples may now focus their energy on other pressing issues, such as who's actually responsible for the laundry.

Porsche 911 GT2 coupe

AT $425,700, Porsche's new 997-series 911 GT2 shoots directly at Ferrari territory, but the most expensive production Porsche ever sold in Australia also offers the most formidable performance statistics. With more power than the flagship 911 Turbo and no all-wheel drive system with which to harness its extra turbocharged urge, the GT2 is not for the faint-hearted. Best described as a turbocharged version of the race-ready, rear-drive GT3 coupe, the GT2 is the most track-focussed road-going 911 ever.

Porsche 911 GT2 coupe
August 2001-August 2003
The current GT2's 996-series forebear headed in a more luxurious direction than the 993-series original of 1995, but as Porsche's highest-performing road-going 911 coupe, it was no slouch. Peak power was rated at 340kW and, with 620Nm of torque available from its twin-turbo 3.6-litre flat-six, the six-speed manual-only 996 GT2 was one of the quickest and fastest supercars in its day. In Australia, the previous GT2 was priced at $399,000.

Volvo S80 2.5T

VOLVO is no force in the medium luxury sedan sector, as its original S80’s inability to lure enough buyers from 1998 to 2005 reveals. But the second-generation version is a very different animal, sharing DNA with Ford’s impressive Mondeo as well as the Land Rover Freelander II, to take on a more dynamic, refined and flexible persona. Perhaps the base S80 – the diesel-powered D5 – is the best of the big Volvos, offering luxury, safety, performance, economy and space in a value-for-money package. Of course the S80 D5 isn’t perfect, but it makes for an interesting, fresh and unique alternative to a BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Lexus.

Volvo S80 2.5T sedan
October 2004-July 2005
The first S80 was built off Volvo’s premium front-wheel drive platform, and lacked the dynamic sophistication to take on the established German opposition. Nevertheless, a spacious and luxurious interior, high equipment levels and Volvo’s unwavering commitment to safety were in the S80’s favour. The 2.5T was a short-lived base model and a replacement for the previous S80 2.9, powered by a 150kW/280Nm 2.9-litre in-line six-cylinder petrol engine. As the 2.5T’s name suggests, it used the familiar 154kW/320Nm 2.5-litre in-line turbo five, mated to a five-speed automatic. But sales were sluggish so Volvo withdrew the whole S80 line-up from the middle of 2005.

Aston Martin V8

ONE of the most desirable cars in the world is to be made even more desirable with the imminent introduction of an upgraded Aston Martin V8 Vantage with a bigger engine.

To be introduced in the third quarter, the entry-level Aston – if such a term is applicable to a car that starts at $245,000 in Australia – looks much the same but gets some significant technical improvements.

Top of the list is an increase in engine capacity from 4.3 litres to 4.7 litres by increasing the bore and stroke from 89x86mm to a perfectly square 91x91mm, giving a displacement of 4735cc.

Power output consequently increases by 11 per cent to 313kW at 7000rpm while torque goes up 15 per cent to 470Nm at 5750rpm, providing a 0-100km/h time of 4.8 seconds (0.2 seconds faster than the current car) and a top speed of 288km/h with the optional and revised Sportshift sequential semi-auto transmission.

Combined European fuel economy and CO2 emissions are also improved by 13 per cent with the Sportshift transmission, which benefits from revised software and a revised clutch and flywheel that reduces weight by 0.5kg.

As well as hill descent detection, the rear-mounted Sportshift unit now also takes inputs from the steering wheel, enabling the current gear to be held when cornering.

Increasing the cylinder bore has been facilitated by a move to cylinder liners that are pressed into the alloy block, allowing a thinner liner than was possible with the cast-in design of the 4.3-litre engine.

A new forged steel crankshaft incorporates new holes in the counter weights for reduced rotating mass and improved inter-bay breathing, while the dry sump lubrication system includes a new sump casting with oil pick-up points moved from the front and rear to the sides of the sump.

Modified cylinder-heads get bigger intake ports and valves (up from 34.9mm to 35.9mm) while the intake manifold has also been modified to match the new porting to optimise air flow.

The other major area of improvement is the suspension, with the aim of improving body control for better handling while at the same time improving low speed ride quality.

A number of the components originally introduced on the Vantage Roadster are carried over to the Coupe, including revised upper damper mountings and bump stops. Bilstein low-friction dampers have been fitted as standard and the spring rates have been stiffened by 11 per cent at the front and five per cent at the rear.

Steering geometry is also modified to improve steering feel, while the front lower suspension arm compliance bushes are stiffened by 22 per cent to provide enhanced steering response and handling.

Apart from new 19-inch wheels, the exterior is unchanged, but the interior features a new diecast zinc alloy centre console, revised switchgear and the introduction of a DBS-style ECU (made from glass, stainless steel and polycarbonate) in place of a key.

Aston Martin CEO Ulrich Bez introduced the upgraded 2009 V8 Vantage Coupe and Roadster and said it was an important mid-cycle upgrade to a model that first grabbed headlines when it appeared as a concept at the 2003 Detroit motor show and two years later in production form at Geneva.

Since then, 10,000 Vantages have been hand-built at Aston Martin’s plant at Gaydon in Warwickshire, England.

“Continued development and evolution of our unique VH (Vertical-Horizontal) architecture has brought even higher levels of refinement and dynamic performance to our whole range,” said Dr Bez.

“With the new 4.7-litre engine and associated changes, we have taken the V8 Vantage to new levels of performance to produce an even more desirable sports car.

“The V8 Vantage is now the most successful Aston Martin in our history and we are confident these changes will continue its appeal and driving enjoyment for both new and existing customers.”

Renault Laguna

RENAULT Australia has introduced the third generation of its Laguna flagship. Pitched against the Peugeot 407, Volkswagen Passat and higher ends of the Mazda6 and Ford Mondeo model ranges, the Laguna is a well specified model that will be available as both a hatch and wagon starting at $41,990. Some models have already arrived (two trim levels of the diesel auto hatch), while the range will grow to eight by September and include a wagon and a petrol engine. Both engines are 2.0-litres in size and use a turbo. The diesel is good for 110kW and 340Nm, while the petrol produces 125kW and 270Nm. The diesel comes standard with a six-speed manual and is also available with a six-speed automatic, while the petrol is only available with the six-speed automatic.

features:Great handling, torquey engine, good economy, hatchback practicality, sleek exterior styling
disadvantages: Noisy and unrefined at idle, uninspiring interior, pricey, issues with brand image
By JAMES STANFORD 19/06/2008

THE Laguna is a stylish and comfortable model that does most things quite well. Existing Laguna customers will be more than happy when they come to upgrade their cars.

But Renault will face a tougher task attracting new buyers to the car.

It competes with the Volkswagen Passat, Peugeot 407 and higher-end Mazda6s and Ford Mondeos, but is not clearly better than those cars.

It is has an edge in some ways and falls short in others. Then there is the price.

There is no doubt the Laguna has a lot of good features, but its entry-level price of $41,990 might mean it doesn't make it onto some people's radars. Of course, the VW and Peuegot are also pretty pricey, but those brands have a far stronger image than Renault in Australia.

The Laguna is quite a good looking car and stands out in traffic. It has a unique appearance, but is by no means a quirky design like some other Renault models (in particular the Megane hatch).

We only tested the $50,690 Privilege hatch, which looked even better as it sat on 18-inch wheels.

The Laguna's interior looks okay, but is bit a plain for this type of money. There is no problem with the quality, and the plastic surfaces are good, but the layout looks quite conservative.

It also looks bitsy and lacks the design consistency of, say, a VW.

There are also some odd touches, including the cruise control and speed limiter switches, which are the only buttons on the centre console.

Lexus GS460

LIKE the proverbial iron fist a velvet glove, the Lexus GS460 combines scintillating V8 performance and a world-first eight-speed automatic transmission with Japanese refinement and an extensive equipment list - at a sensible price. Large German V8 sedan buyers should overlook the fuel-efficient, rear-drive GS flagship at their own peril, because despite a couple of oversights, the Lexus answer to the likes of BMW's 5 Series, Audi's A6 and the Mercedes-Benz E-class puts up a persuasive argument.

Advantages:
Creamy V8 performance, fuel consumption, smooth and intuitive eight-speed auto, ride/handling, noise and refinement levels, standard equipment list, tight tuning circle, comfort/ergonomics, value for money

Disadvantages:
Foot parking brake, front and rear headroom, small boot opening, no one-touch indicators, no steering wheel gearshift controls, compromised centre rear seat

By MARTON PETTENDY 20/06/2008

THE merits of a large V8 luxury sedan in a world of high fuel prices and a warming global climate may be more questionable than ever, but the flagship variants of their full-size model ranges still represent unrivalled status symbols for premium car-makers and the valued customers that purchase them.

But if you can afford to buy one and you don’t mind the social stigma that can sometimes attach itself to driving it, then chances are that you can probably afford to run one too.

Though it’s conspicuous by its absence of the petrol-electric hybrid technology that Lexus has so successfully trademarked as its own in the luxury sector, the facelifted GS460 remains a logical, if not compelling, alternative to its German V8 sedan rivals from BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi.

The epitome of an iron fist in a velvet glove, the GS460 borrows the state-of-the-art, quad-cam, all-alloy 4.6-litre V8 directly from the new LS460 limousine (launched here in October 2007), and also comes mated with that model’s world-first eight-speed automatic transmission.

In typical Lexus fashion, it’s a configuration that can’t be beaten on a bang-for-your-buck basis.

At $134,900, the GS460 may be $10,000 more expensive than the GS450h hybrid, with which it shares a similar power output of 255kW but which it out-muscles by a significant margin, with peak torque of 460Nm versus 368Nm for the 450.

But the 460 also hits the scales at a whole 200kg lighter than the hybrid at 1695kg, giving it a 0-100km/h sprint capability of a reasonably rapid 5.8 seconds – one-tenth quicker than the GS450.

What’s more, the 460 blasts to 400 metres in a claimed 13.9 seconds – a whole half-second sooner than the 450, which of course returns more frugal claimed average fuel consumption of just 7.9L/100km. That’s almost three litres better than the 460 (11.0L/100km) - and two litres better than even the GS300 (9.8L/100km).

It’s the same story with CO2 emissions, just 186 grams of which are produced by the GS450 each kilometre, compared to 232g/km for the GS300 and 258g/km for the GS460.

So it’s more powerful and quicker but not as clean or efficient as its less expensive hybrid stablemate, as well as 23 per cent more powerful and 10 per cent torquier than the 7.3 per cent smaller-capacity GS430 it replaces.

More importantly, the GS460 stacks up well against its German V8 rivals.

Its closest price rival is BMW’s 540i sedan ($136,700), which costs $1800 more but offers less performance (225kW/390Nm) from its 4.0-litre V8 - though remains lighter (1650kg) and more fuel-efficient (10.4L/100km).

Audi’s A6 4.2 quattro sedan ($149,900) is $15,000 more expensive and has a similar (1745kg) kerb weight and performance (246kW/420Nm) to the Lexus, but is slower and less economical than both the BMW and Lexus.

The E500 Elegance sedan is the least expensive Mercedes-Benz E-class V8 at $161,500 and offers sharp performance numbers (285kW/530Nm) from its 5.5-litre V8. It's lighter at 1690kg and returns the same 11.8L/100km consumption as the Audi, yet is the quickest of the bunch with a 5.5-second 0-100km/h claim.

Jaguar’s new XF V8 sedan looks attractive on paper, priced at just $130,500 ($4400 les sthan the GS) and powered by a 219kW/411Nm 4.2-litre V8 that returns 11.1L/100km, but at 1749kg is the slowest of the group with a 6.5-second sprint time.

Accord to Redbook, the GS460’s resale value after three years is on par with the A6, but well behind the other Germans, although the Japanese luxury brand’s reputation for customer service and class-leading four-year/100,000km warranty compensate for that somewhat.

So the rear-drive GS460 is relatively powerful, quick and economical – despite the fitment of an enviably array of luxury features as standard – and still has as much road presence as its rivals, with the exception, perhaps, of the brand-new XF.

Australia never saw the first-generation GS but the MkII version has been around since 2005 yet still looks fresh thanks to this year’s midlife facelift that presents a sharper new look for its hallmark quad-headlight design.

A prominent Lexus grille is flanked by a pair of bi-Xenon high-beams with washers, while wing mirror-mounted indicators, proper door-handles and a subtle rear decklid spoiler complete the discreet and understated look.

Step inside and there’s no doubting the GS460’s luxury car status, with swathes of tastefully finished woodgrain highlights gracing the centre console, door trims and steering wheel, and soft-touch textured dashboard and door materials contrasting nicely with the high-quality perforated leather seat trim.

There’s good vision in all directions despite a super-narrow rear screen, and the large white instrument markings are easily readable on their classy, brushed alloy-look backgrounds.

The large central speedo reads to 260km/h and contains a multi-function information display for all key trip computer functions, all of which is duplicated in the large central touch screen – another Lexus hallmark that’s super-easy to use.

Far easier to access than some other notoriously difficult cockpit management systems, the GS460 presents navigation, audio, climate, trip computer, telephone and even service functions on its large, central colour touch-screen.

It is complimented by a cracking Mark Levinson sound system that is one of the best in the business and even comprises a cassette deck, and the dual-zone climate-control system is impressively efficient and features twin rear outlets.

All four doors comprise storage compartments, the larger front units supplemented by fold-out sides, there are four overhead grabrails, a small but double-deck glovebox and the sizeable boot is fully lined and illuminated and features chromed cargo hooks and includes a warning triangle, first-aid kit and toolkit in the European tradition.

Unfortunately the boot loading aperture is fairly small and there's no split-folding rear seat, but at least there’s a full-size alloy spare under the flat load floor.

The fussy Benz-style foot-operated parking brake aside, user-friendly features abound - such as the keyless entry and starting system, fully electric seat adjustment that includes ventilation and memory functions for both front seats, plus automatic headlights, un/lock buttons on both front doors and the auto up/down buttons for all four side windows.

Audio, cruise, trip and phone functions can all be operated via the steering wheel but glaring omissions include a one-touch indicator function, steering wheel gearshift controls, a digital speedo display and automatic fuel flap unlocking.

There is an array of overhead light and sunroof controls, but no sunglasses holder, and the twin rear bucket seats severely compromise centre-rear seating strong points. In fact, while rear legroom is plentiful, headroom is not one of the GS460’s fortes – either front or back.

The fully electric steering wheel adjustment (for both height and reach) makes finding the right seating position a breeze, but for us both front seats were too high.

Despite that, the large Lexus remains a model of ergonomic success, with all major controls well placed and light to operate, making the GS460 feel immediately familiar and effortless to drive in all conditions.

The first and most lasting impression is its cabin serenity. The GS’s impressive noise suppression makes it quieter than its rivals, and ride quality is at least a match for its German opponents – even in the firmer of the two suspension damping settings (Sport).

The plush ride doesn’t come at any expense to road holding, with a taut-feeling chassis that steers with the precision and feedback of a true luxury car. The GS may not feel as substantial on the road as its rear-drive German rivals, but it’s certainly in the ballpark in terms of outright grip and handling and overall balance. A super-tight, 10.4-metre turning circle makes parking a cinch.

The GS460’s big drawcard, however, is its state-of-the-art V8, which produces its impressive torque peak at 4100rpm and enough useable power right across the rev-range to give you the impression the eight-speed auto is always in the right gear.

Gears can be changed manually via the traditional console shifter only, but the new transmission is surprisingly adaptive and, left to its own devices in drive, the GS460 transmission makes good use of the 4.6 V8’s long legs.

A formidable V8 growl is almost inaudible inside with the windows up, and the despite making full use of the broad and creamy torque curve, our GS returned a respectable 12.5L/100km fuel figure, running on E10 premium unleaded and book-ended by figures well under the 10L/100km mark on the highway and more than 15L/100km in stop-start city traffic.

Of course, with much lower fuel consumption and acceleration that’s almost as quick, the $10,000-cheaper GS450h is perhaps the GS460’s fiercest rival.

For some large luxury saloon buyers, however, only a V8 will do and the 4.6-litre Lexus V8 is as accomplished as the GS flagship’s level of ride/handling, refinement and high-tech features.

Throw in a unique Japanese flavour, a class-leading equipment list, attractive pricing and, with a couple of reservations, benchmark ergonomics, and the GS460 deserves a second look by those in the market for a luxury German V8.

Renault Clio Sport

New Renault Clio Sport is a concentrate of technology and equipment derived
from the world of motor sport. The car is poised to go on sale in France in June
2006 at the price of €23,000. Order books for Renault Clio Sport will
nonetheless be open within the Renault network at the end of March.

The challenge faced by Renault Sport Technologies’ engineers when first penning
Renault Clio Sport was to respect the original personality of Clio III while at
the same time highlighting the newcomer’s own intrinsic qualities and dynamism.
The result is an outstanding car which puts the accent firmly on performance,
passion and driving pleasure.

Clio Renault Sport stands out as a worthy successor to Clio Renault Sport
2.0 16V and features a groundbreaking first in its segment in the form of a rear
air diffuser which uses technology derived directly from Formula 1. In association
with the extractor vents in the front wings, it ensures excellent aerodynamic
performance.

Sportier than ever, New Clio Renault Sport is powered by an evolution of the
normally-aspirated 2.0 16V engine, the power of which has been increased to
197hp. Coupled with the new six-speed gearbox, this powerful, responsive engine offers first-class sports performance and driving pleasure.

Skoda Roomster

Hi Guys, Happy to meet you with an intersting article, Hope it is useful...The fourth in the Skoda model inventory, the Skoda Roomster, is scheduled to be unveiled at the Geneva International Motor Show.

The area set aside for the debut is the Skoda Auto display, which will be located in Hall 2 with a coverage area of 1,155 square metres, will be found in Geneva. In addition to the unveiling, an additional five Skoda Roomster cars will be exhibited with each featuring a different level of equipment.

The Skoda Roomster’s inaugural appearance occurred in 2003 at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt. It was showcased as a design study, but was quickly proven favorable to both automotive experts and consumers alike. The spacious interior and compact dimensions have proven to be a viable option for many auto enthusiasts. It’s interior seating system allows for a conceivable four or five seat automobile. In addition, visibility is improved for all passengers through the use of a raised rear seat, large rear door glass and a panoramic roof. The Skoda Roomster vehicles, including the base models, feature four airbags and five three-point retractor seat belt systems.

The Skoda Roomster will be made available through the primary European markets during the summer months of 2006. In addition to the Roomster, Skoda Auto plans to introduce the Fabia, Octavia and Superb models at the Geneva International Motor Show.

Chrysler 300

Smooth, quiet operation, tight handling, space, luxury: The Chrysler 300 sedan has it all, at attractive prices. Yet what the 300 has more than anything is bold, appealing styling.

The Chrysler 300 nameplate includes a wide range of engines and amenities, from a frugal V6 to the powerful SRT8. The base model comes well-equipped for less than $25,000 MSRP. The Touring model adds leather, amenities and a more powerful V6 for about $28,000. The 300C offers a truly powerful Hemi V8, with Chrysler's fuel-saving Multi-Displacement System, and it can be equipped with most of the gizmos and luxury features available today.

Long-wheelbase models are also available that some families may find appealing. Aimed primarily at the chauffeur-driven executive class, the long-wheelbase version offer a cavernous back seat, th more leg room than just about anything on the road. It's great for tall folks or anyone who likes space and convenience and can be equipped with custom features such as writing tables and foot rests.

The Chrysler 300 is rear-wheel drive, and we consider that a benefit. Rear-wheel drive adds to the pleasure and excitement of driving this big sedan, and that's partly why luxury sedans and sports cars continue to use it. The 300's traction and stability electronics are well sorted and effective, delivering good all-season performance, and all-wheel drive is an option for those who live in the snow belt. With the big-torque V8, the 300 also offers something buyers that has had buyers turning to SUVs: enough towing capacity to pull a lightweight trailer.

The Chrysler 300 models are comfortable. They're also responsive for large cars. The 300C delivers thrilling acceleration, while the SRT8 offers true high performance in civilized fashion.

Then there's the styling. Inside and out, this car makes no apologies. It won't be mistaken for any other sedan the road. It can be trimmed with chrome, mono-chrome and various wheels to look stately and elegant or downright mean.

The Chrysler 300 delivers impressive value, but emphasizing the cost/benefit ratio may minimize its other strengths. The 300s are good, appealing cars, and they've set the benchmark for Detroit's car builders.

For 2008, Chrysler added several features and tweaked the interior and exterior design. New features include adaptive cruise control, Sirius Backseat TV and Chrysler's MyGig, a 20-gigabyte hard drive that holds songs, pictures, and navigation system map information. Chrysler's UConnect hands-free cell-phone link has been upgraded with an integrated iPod interface. The interior has a new instrument panel and center console, and the arm rests, center console and door trim benefit from soft-touch surfaces. Outside, the front and rear fascia, grille, decklid, and side moldings are updated. Base models are now called LX.

Nissan Murano

Nissan's recent history is for the most part a success story, and part of that success comes from designing one set of parts into a platform and then stretching that platform's length, width, and strength to do other jobs under other kinds of vehicles. Nissan does this better than most manufacturers, and has done it successfully once again with the 2009 Murano, using basically the same kit of parts that goes under the Altima coupe and sedan for a much larger, heavier and more complex crossover SUV. Murano is named after two different luxury items from two very different parts of the world, Murano art glass from Italy and Murano pearls from Japan, which is a good thing, considering it's sold in more than 130 countries.

The outgoing Murano has been one of the most successful models in Nissan's recent history, with sales rising every year since its introduction in 2003, and a loyalty rate upwards of 30 percent. With sales up more than 70 percent, they've stopped production on the original Murano and given us this brand new second-generation version to consider.

The 2009 Nissan Murano is several steps more radically styled that the original. There are many more curves in the body sheetmetal, a much bigger, shinier grille with a less-busy air intake under it, very large, bold, seven-element headlamps, and a completely new rear-end design, more horizontal than vertical, with dual exhaust ports under the bumper.

Murano models come with 18-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels standard on the top LE model and optional on the others. Once you get beyond the grille and the headlamps, the only chrome on the curvy new body shell is the door handles. This design strategy lets the body and the paint do all the talking. The new body is almost two counts better in aerodynamic performance than the 2007 version, improved from 0.37 to 0.39 Cd. The more slippery design should mean better highway mileage and less wind noise.

The flexible, stretchable platform underneath the new Murano has been reinforced from front to rear, and fitted with several additional bumper beams and crossmembers, for the heavier duty cycles a crossover sport ute encounters, so it's now roughly 150 percent stiffer than the old truck. This is meaningful not only in terms of crash safety and survival, but also in terms of long-term durability and reliability for those buyers who aren't going to be back in the market for six or eight years. Things like doors and hoods and hinges will stay where they are put because the frame is strong to start with.

The redesigned 2009 Murano retails for some $1500 less than comparably equipped 2007 models.

Jaguar XF

Hi...guys in the series of latest cars, here come Jaguar XF.Lets see some of the features of the car.The 2009 Jaguar XF is a new model, replacing the aging S-type in Jaguar's lineup. This mid-sized, rear-wheel-drive sedan offers a fresh, engaging alternative to luxury imports such as the Audi A6,BMW 5 Series, Mercedes E-class, and Lexus GS. After a 300-mile test drive, we'd rank the Jaguar XF near the top of its class.

The Jaguar XF delivers everything you'd expect in a contemporary luxury sedan, and then some. The big news with XF is styling, interior design and features, though the hardware underneath is anything but ordinary. A lot of it, including the suspension design, is borrowed from the Jaguar XK.

Factor in a well-engineered body structure, and the XF is exactly what it should be: smooth, quiet and responsive. It feels lighter and more agile than some of its competitors, and it bears up like a sport sedan when driven aggressively.

The XF comes with a choice of two V8 engines. The base engine is Jag's familiar 4.2-liter V8, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The upgrade is a supercharged version of the 4.2, generating 420 hp and 408 lb-ft and surpassing nearly all competitors in output. Both V8s come with Jaguar's six-speed ZF automatic transmission, which is one of the best automatics money can buy.

The XF will be offered in three trim levels, starting with the normally aspirated Luxury, which is better equipped than most base models in this category. The Premium Luxury adds even more stuff, including double-stitched, soft-grain leather on the dash and door panels. The SC (for supercharged) comes with just about everything Jaguar offers, including CATS automatic suspension control and 20-inch wheels.

Then there's the racy new look. The XF marks a new direction for Jaguar, but it also continues some of the styling themes that have identified Jaguars for decades. The roofline and the shape of the side glass are intended to create the impression of a sporty, two-door coupe more than a four-door sedan, and to a considerable extent it works. The XF presents one of the more interesting designs in a category full of handsome automobiles. If you're intrigued by the photographs, you'll like it better in real life.

The same applies inside. We really like the XF cabin, for both its look and overall function. Slide into this sedan, and an interactive greeting that Jaguar calls the handshake welcomes the driver and reminds him or her that driving is an active process. The wood, wool and leather create the feel and scent of a British club room, yet the design is light, airy and almost Scandinavian. The XF interior is more minimalist than its German competitors, but also more charming and easier to get familiar with.

Of course, the swoopy styling has its drawbacks. By nearly every exterior dimension, the XF is slightly larger than all competitors, but the flow of its roofline and the rake of its rear glass mean rear headroom is tight. In general, the rear seat feels more confining than that in a Mercedes E-Class or Audi A6. On the upside, the XF's trunk is larger than any competitor's, and a folding rear seat further expands capacity. The importance of these packaging issues will depend on the buyer's priorities.

In our estimation, the XF debuts as one of the most appealing cars in its class. Before the XF, well-heeled buyers seeking an option to the dense-pack switches, multi-layered interfaces and alphabet-soup of electronics in most imported luxo/sport sedans probably had to think about a brand with less cachet or dynamic capability. No more. With steady improvement in Jaguar's resale values and customer-satisfaction ratings the last several years, the new XF offers an excellent alternative.

The 2009 XF replaces the 2008 S-Type in Jaguar's line-up, though the two cars will sell concurrently during calendar year 2008.