2013 Cadillac XTS – Luxury
As soon as Cadillac announced that they are going to replace Cadillac DTS and STS with a bigger and better 2013 Cadillac XTS, everyone is wondering if GM has really decided to compete with European luxury brands. Sounds like a big step to take right after they have just started to recover from the bankruptcy trauma. GM better come up with something as good as the legendary Eldorado and Rancher.
Before we start giving opinions on that, we must not forget that the good old Cady is one of the oldest luxury brands in America. It has a history of pioneering countless accessories in automobiles and is also the brand behind the all famous V8. Although being a luxury vehicle Cadillac has never been the fastest selling brand, the sales of DTS and STS were slower than ever. The future XTS seems like an attempt to reclaim the throne once again, but is this premium sedan really going to be the saving grace of Cady? Let’s find out.
2013 Cadillac XTS – Facts
Not much is known really! The future Cadillac XTS is expected to go into production by the end of 2011, so not much is reveled or perhaps decided yet. What we do know about the latest XTS is that it will share the platform with another GM luxury vehicle Buick LaCrosse. It will be based on the Epsilon II architecture. However, the car will be using a much larger variation of Epsilon II size.
More of what has been speculated so far is that the future XTS will offer both front-wheel and all-wheel drive power train options. One thing that we can assume pretty much correctly here is that this car will boast a V6 instead of a V8, as the latter is considered not so suitable for the architecture. We are quite sure about the engine, unless Cady once again tries to surprise us with its revolutionary innovations.
2013 Cadillac XTS – Expectations
From the outside, leaked photos have revealed that the future Cadillac car is quite a cross between CTs and La Crosse. However, if Cadillac really wants to compete with the European fleet of luxury vehicles, it better try an edgier and crisper outlook, something that combines sophistication and aggression. We also speculate that Cady will try to claim a better position in the luxury automobile industry by introducing a lot of advanced features and amenities.
Viewing the XTS as a large sized luxury vehicle, we are also expecting a better suspension and bigger breaks. Not to mention, no compromises will be made on handling and drive quality. Lacking in any of these departments will make it unable to match up with its contemporaries.
Verdict
Too early for passing a verdict yet, but from what is known and what has been speculated, we can easily assume that the car will be the new flagship sedan for the new and uprising GM. It will be an affordable yet worthy competitor for luxury brands such as Lexus. So here we are, fingers crossed, waiting for the American hallmark luxury brand to strike again and make an impact with this premium sedan, the 2013 Cadillac XTS.
2 Comments - Tagged as: Cadillac
Porsche Panamera S Hybrid – And You Think You Can’t Afford A Porsche!
Let’s face it, Porsche is one of those cars only the name of which can make anyone drool. We dream about a Porsche, everyone dreams about a Porsche, but how many of us ever thought that we can afford it? Here is a reality check, even if you do manage to rob a bank to buy a new Porsche, there is possibly no chance that you would be able to afford the fuel and maintenance of this baby.
Mark these words as we tell you that the convention is about to be broken. Porsche has announced their Porsche Panamera S Hybrid, the most affordable Porsche ever. Panemera S Hybrid is expected to hit the market by the mid or end of 2012. So, if you were saving money for an SUV or some other not-so-impressive car, save some more as you can now get a Porsche in your garage-one that you can afford to drive.
Panoramic View of Panamera Hybrid
To be honest, there is hardly any notable difference between the last Panamera and the upcoming Panamera Hybrid. But is it really a disappointment? Porsche, as we know it has never received many complaints and criticism on its design and exterior. So, let’s just say, they didn’t want to take chances with any experimentation on the outside.
To sum it up, let’s just say that it is still low and wide like a typical Porsche. Despite being a hybrid, the Porsche Panamera S maintains its sporty stance. The headlights this time are the Bi-Xenon with LED technology. Also, the Porsche Panamera Hybrid receives a set of new wheels offered in 18″ as standard and 20″ optional.
Porsche Panamera Performance
The catch here is Hybrid. So, everything you will see under the hood works together to offer better fuel economy rather than focusing just on the speed. So the hybrid Porsche gets a V6 engine and an electric motor powered by a nickel hydride battery NiMh. This battery stores the energy recovered from braking and driving.
The V6 in the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid is able to pump up to 333 HP while the motor delivers 34 Kw of power. You can drive this Porsche up to 1.24 miles at a top speed of 53mph before you will be required to switch to gas. Yet, one interesting fact is that you can drive the hybrid Porsche in three different modes; pure gasoline, pure electric or in conjunction with both of these.
The Bottom Line
With a fuel-economy of 39.79 mpg, Porsche Panamera S Hybrid might not be good enough to compete with many leading hybrids around, but given that it’s a Porsche, we can’t yet think of a better one.
2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8
While most of the auto-manufacturers are harping the same fuel-efficient SUV tune, they are doing nothing but reducing the performance and size of what we used to called the next big thing. No more do the new SUVs carry the same sense of action, adventure and power with them. Yet, those who still want the true essence of an SUV are not settling for anything they would call an SUV, and that is why all eyes are set on the all-new 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8.
Grand Cherokee is essentially the very first vehicle that has so beautifully combined the roughness of an off-road vehicle with the smoothness of a highway car. If Jeep is the pride of Chrysler, Grand Cherokee is the pride of Jeep. However, one of the major reasons why the 2012 SRT8 is creating such hype already is that it will be the fastest Jeep ever. Essentially, it is not just the power of an off-road jeep we are waiting for; we are waiting for an upgraded performance jeep.
2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8 – A Jeep or an SUV
Taking a keen look at the future SRT8, we have come to a conclusion that this car combines the best of both worlds. It is as wild as a jeep and as tamed as an SUV.
However, cars have never been humble creatures. The more power you give them, the more aggressive they start to look. The same is the case with the 2012 SRT8. What you will see is an upgraded front and rear fascias and an addition of rear lift gate spoiler. This means, Jeep is working on its aerodynamics this time. What adds to the beauty of this Cherokee is a set of four 20 inch alloy-wheels perfectly complementing the overall exterior of this beast.
Really, the Fastest
So we have heard, but of course we cannot put our decisions on what we hear through the grapevine. So, we had to search on. What we found under the hood of the 2012 Cherokee SRT8 is a powerful 6.4L Hemi, and we really though Jeep won’t be able to find a replacement for its previous 6L V8. This is the same engine that debuts with Dodge Challenger and Dodge Charger this year. So, the Hemi is mated with an eight-speed automatic tranny, and together they can boast up to 502 horsepower and 55 lb-ft of torque. Now, this is fast enough to make the future SRT8 the fastest jeep.
Is It Just About the Speed
Furthermore, we have heard that Jeep has really worked on the tranny to ensure smoother shifts and quicker acceleration for the car. And if you are curious to know more, let us tell you that this car will solely be an All-Wheel Drive. Moreover, the news of an enhanced suspension is also out. Now that the price hasn’t been decided yet, this time Jeep does claim better fuel-economy than the predecessors of the 2012 Grand Cherokee SRT8.
No Comments - Tagged as: Jeep
2012 Audi S8 – of Grilles and Thrills
Luxury cars always seem to maintain their own class and despite the price tag they are never out of demand. However, to keep offering the best of the best, the luxury brand manufacturers keep on experimenting and incorporating performance and power in their luxury line-up. Same can be said about the Audi.
When it comes to luxury, Audi has only a few competitors. Yet, this luxury brand is facing challenges by the likes of BMW and Mercedes, who have found the formula for success in incorporating luxuries in their sporty cars. It seems like Audi has finally risen up to the challenge with their new 2012 Audi S8 by incorporating sports cars in their luxury line up.
Sneak Peak
From the pictures that were secretly and unofficially revealed on the internet, what seems most striking about the new 2012 Audi S8 is its grille. Some would say that Audi surely does need to tone it down a bit before they officially reveal it at Frankfurt, but we say it seems to be the perfect compliment for the rest of the aggressive makeover.
Looking at the pictures of the new S8, it is easy to tell that there are probably a few finishing touches and trimmings remaining. We are quite positive that it will all be done before the final showdown, but one thing is confirmed- we are expecting a sportier Audi next year.
Other aspects we know about the upcoming Audi’s look is a new integrated spoiler, four-outlet exhaust system and its large S wheels that distinctly set it apart from the A8 line up.
Engine Details
Too many speculations were around about the engine in the 2012 Audi S8 unless Audi went official with their announcement. Following the traits of its competitors, Audi also decided to kiss the V10 goodbye. Instead, they decided to go real sporty in terms of specification this time. Coming for sure now is a Bentley-sourced 4.0L twin turbo V8 that will be able to produce up to 520 hp.
No wonder Audi was aspiring to beat the competition, the BMW B7 Alpina and the Mercedes S63 AMG, in terms of power and performance. So, the V8 engine seems like the best choice they could have made. Talking about performance, one thing that really disappointed us in the past few models of the S8 was the torque. Producing 398 ft-lbs, the new V8 engine is said to have taken good care of that problem as well.
Mated with the V8 power will be an eight speed automatic transmission, but the rumors of seven speed double clutch S tronic are also around. In any case, what is needed here is anything that can enhance the performance of the 2012 Audi S8 up to the standards of much sportier brands.
Foreword
Since we haven’t had the chance of getting our hands on the 2012 S8, we cannot present any conclusion but just a foreword for the upcoming Audi S8. The reason why we haven’t talked much about the interior and features is not because nothing has been revealed, but because it’s Audi and we can’t expect anything less than perfection. While the performance of the last few Audis might have been a disappointment, it always did mange to lead the pack in terms of comfort, luxuries and amenities. If the 2012 Audi S8 does manages to deliver the performance that is anticipated, there is no reason why it shouldn’t be the best luxury car of 2012.
No Comments - Tagged as: Audi
Happy Earth Day – Top 5 Electric Cars
Happy Earth Day! Below are top 5 electric or hybrid car for all eco-conscious people. These cars have nearly zero or emissions and they rarely depend on the gasoline. Which is your favorite of them all?
Top 5 Electric Cars – Top Five Future Electric Car
Nissan Leaf –
Nissan Leaf is fitted with 24kW lithium ion battery, a car that can carry 5 passengers and comes with 5 doors. The engine produces 107HP and 208 PF of torque. The car is going to have a top speed of 90 mph and it can go from 0-60 mph in less the 10s. Yes, it is not just a electric toy but a fully fledged car that is very practical and usable. It can run for 100 miles on a single charge. It takes 7 hours to fully change its batteries if it is charged in a 220V outlet. The car comes with a sticker price of $32,780.
Chevy Volt – Chevy Volt is not a complete electric car but is an extended range electric vehicle. The electric motor in the car powers car for 1st 30 to 50m of driving. Once the batteries of the car depletes, it switches to gas engine which then provides electric power to motor. People who drive less than 50 miles a day would rarely hit motor mileage limit. The backup generator in the Chevy Volt makes it a very effective and practical electric car as people do not have to worry ever their battery going down due to lack of change. After the federal tax credit of $7,500 for plug-in cars, Chevy Volt would cost $33,500.
Tesla Model S – Tesla Motors promises an electric car that can run 300 miles on a single charge and can go from 0-60mph in just 5.6 seconds. The car production is likely to start soon for the 5 door 5 passenger car. The car is going to cost $49,900 after $7500 federal tax credit.
Ford Focus Electric
Ford Focus Electric is first electric passenger car from Ford Motors which might be a bit late in the market but is sure going to give tough competition to Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt. The new model for the car has much improved aerodynamics which is going to improve the drag and a stunning design. The car is fitted with 100 KW electric motor and the battery of 23 kWh which could produce 123 HP and 181 PF of torque. The top speed for the car is 84mph and it might travel a distance of 100miles with single charge. To fully charge the car it would take 3 hours with a 240V home charging station.
Hyundai Sonata Hybrid -
Hyundai Sonata hybrid has a top speed of 62 mph(a bit lower than its competitors), is a 4 door family car that can run on a full electric mode. The car is fitted with Hyundai’s Hybrid Blue Drive. The car comes with 6 speed automatic transmission and is fitted with lithium polymer battery. The clutch arrangement can be used to run the car in full hybrid or full electric mode. The combined output for the car including engine and motor is 209 hp which is impressive looking at the other cars Camry Hybrid – 187hp and Fusion Hybrid – 191hp.
2012 BMW M5 F10 Concept
In automobile industry, everything happens so fast. One moment you wonder what the future car might seem like, the next moment the future is already unveiled- precisely, a concept car is revealed. Essentially, we can say that concept car is a car that offers a sneak peak into the future. And this year, the car that best satisfies this definition is none other than the 2012 BMW M5 F10 Concept.
What dreams look like
Dreams into concept, concept into reality, this is what those guys in the automobile industry keep on doing. We see dreams, we can see the future to a certain extent, but concept cars depict the intermediate phase of dreams turning into reality. That is why BMW was looking for a more appropriate time to unveil their concept car. Unfortunately for them, the photos were unofficially leaked on the internet after a private showing in Germany.
From what we have seen, 2012 BMW F10 Concept (in Chrome Shadow) is a long, lean, mean looking machine which manages to seem quite intimidating and attractive at the same time. It seems like a futuristic look of the BMWs successful 5 series sedan. Like most of the other concept cars we have seen lately, the new concept car also carries a combined appeal and aesthetics of a luxury and sports car.
However, taking a keener look, a car-aficionado will quickly realize that each of the design element and feature in 2012 M5 F10 Concept is meant to improve the aerodynamics and over-all performance of the car.
What Concept Feels Like
The prime focus of concept cars has always been the performance and driving experience. Similarly for the new F10 Concept, the manufacturers are trying to offer an enhanced experience by taking the design and technology to the next level.
What we know about the interior is that it will be a graciously spacious four-seater equipped with a lot of features. The aerodynamic design, advanced suspension technology combined with high-end luxurious interior and smooth handling will make this car offer the most amazing handling and control even in the most extreme conditions.
What Drives The Future
Under the hood of the car will be a high performing M-specific drive-train and suspension technology. The newly developed high-revving V8 engine with M TwinPower Turbo and improved drive-train will complement the high-performance design features of the concept. Not only will this new engine deliver powerful performance, it is also expected to cut down fuel-consumption and emission levels by 25%.
The Reality!
While the official unveiling is still a few days ahead, the information available so far is enough to assume that BMW is really working on a groundbreaking concept this time-again. The design complementing the technology and vice-versa is a concept we have heard a lot about. Unfortunately, no car has yet been able to live up to it. By the looks of it, the new engine of the 2012 BMW M5 F10 Concept and all the design features will really result in a car whose competitor, both in luxury and sport sedans, would be hard to find for a long time to come.
No Comments - Tagged as: BMW
2013 Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu is definitely one of the most successful cars which evolved from powerful muscle cars in to a performance family sedan. Since GM has revealed their upcoming 2013 Chevrolet Malibu, we can say it also became the most awaited car of 2013. As GM has finally recovered from the economic setback, Malibu is expected to be the car that will redefine the brand.
A History of Decisions worth a Shot
Chevy Malibu has quite an interesting history if you take a look at it. Malibu, which was initially a subseries of Chevrolet Chevelle starting form 1964, completely replaced the Chevelle nameplate in 1978. This was quite a decision to make but turned out later that it was worth the risk. Now with their upcoming 2013 Chevy Malibu, GM is taking another big decision, the decision of going global.
According to GM, the new 2013 Malibu will be sold in 100 countries around the world, and they are quite confident that their best-selling line-up would once again not disappoint them, as it never has.
What Looks New
Other than the GM’s bold decision to go global, the future Chevrolet Malibu includes a few apparent changes from it predecessors. The car will be a few inches shorter and two inches wider than the last Malibu. This makes it rightfully fall under the mid-sized sedan category now. Adding more sculpted details to the hood, bumper and tail-light, the design changes are intended to make it look more aggressive and athletic rather than an average family sedan.
What Feels New
Despite an inch gone, future Malibu will offer more passenger and luggage space. Complementing a larger space, Malibu’s interior will definitely play its role in offering a more comfortable and luxurious drive.
The cabin is a wonderful blend of chrome, metal and wood holding a seven-inch screen powered by Chevy’s new infotainment system, MyLink. Other features that this global Chevy will be including are lane-departure warning, forward collision alert and ten air bags.
What’s under the Hood
Under the sculpted hood of 2013 Chevrolet Malibu will be a 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine that would be replacing the current V6 for good. The gasoline engine along with a six-speed manual transmission will be able to produce up to 190 hp and 180 torque.
With these changes GM is determined to deliver much better performance. Not only is the future Chevy Malibu designed to deliver better acceleration and handling, it will also offer better fuel economy as well.
What to Expect
As the car enters its eight generation, the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu holds the burden of carrying on the legacy along with a need to change and advance according to modern requirements. From what has been revealed so far, we expect that GM is really going to pull out a car that is destined to make a global impact. Improved mileage, a sexier look and better security features are definitely going to make that goal sound more realistic. So, what we are expecting from the upcoming Chevy Malibu is going to be a worthy competitor for the most popular wheels across the globe.
No Comments - Tagged as: Chevrolet
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid – The Legacy Goes Green
Evo X Evolves as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution ‘Hybrid’!
Every automobile manufacturer has a legacy car and ‘Lancer’ is the legacy car for the Japanese automobile giant Mitsubishi. Since its first strike in 1973, Lancer has been a successful family car while ruling the rally tracks at the same time.
Despite being a success from the start, the car never stopped evolving, and in 1992, literally came the Evolution-the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution aka ‘Evo’. While everyone was still thinking what would be next, Mitsubishi announced the Hybrid successor of Lancer Evo X as the 2013 Mitsubishi Evolution Hybrid.
What’s New in 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid
The catch here is ‘Hybrid’!
Mitsubishi Motors is definitely one of the few considerate auto manufacturers around. They are not just jumping on the “go green” bandwagon with their 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid. We must not forget that Mitsubishi has already earned its position as being the first manufacturer to introduce an all-electric car, MiEV. Also, we all know that the company already has a plug-in Hybrid, the 2009 PX-MiEV. So really what’s new?
Despite the fact that not much information is revealed by the manufacturers so far, everyone has been talking about the 2013 Mitsubishi Evo Hybrid. The speculations are that Mitsubishi is planning to mate the plug-in hybrid system with the Evo’s existing 2.0 petrol engine with S-AWC system. From what we heard so far, the main power will be drawn from the electric motor to drive the front wheel, while the gas engine will only be driving the rear wheels i.e. also when needed.
What To Expect From 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid
Talking about the current Lancer Evo X, we have this amazing turbocharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with an all-wheel drive. Now, that the news is out and we know the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid is going to draw power by the same engine, the expectations are as high as the anticipation.
2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Hybrid is expected to reduce the carbon emission of the current Evo to a good percentage. Presumably, we can expect it to pass the regulations in Europe and the US. Talking about performance, the word is that the 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid is expected to generate 320 hp to 350 hp. This is despite the fact that the current EVO engine can only generate 291 hp.
Final Words on 2013 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution Hybrid
Two long years before the actual launch of the 2013 Mitsubishi Evolution Hybrid, it is still too early to pass a verdict. Of course, we have no information regarding the interior or exterior of the car in question. Anyhow, it’s Mitsubishi Lancer and the catch clearly is ‘Hybrid’. Given the current hybrid PX-MiEV and two long years for further development, we are bound to expect a real Eco-friendly and fuel efficient drive with a lot of power and style. After all, it will have a legacy to carry on!
2011 Nissan Maxima Review
Nissan Maxima is an up scaled, midsized sedan with a little touch of sportiness. It occupies the territory between affordable cars and luxury cars. Thanks to its engaging driving dynamics and high-quality construction, the 2011 Nissan Maxima serves as an interesting alternative to many entry-level luxury sedans. Minor changes like the new exhaust tips, gray stitching for upholstery and deep chrome grille, are pretty much the only changes Nissan will bring to the new 2011 Maxima.
Nissan Maxima 2011 comes in two models, the base model, named S, and the SV model, which can be optioned with either the Premium or Sport packages. Additionally three packages can be optioned, namely the Technology package, the monitor package and the Cold package.
Considered by many to be a very good looking car, Nissan Maxima can brag with refined performance that is powerful that has a well trimmed design and lots of high technology features. With an engine sporting close to 300 HP, Maxima can outperform many other a bit pricy, low end luxury cars. The highly inventive continuously variable transmission, or CVT, is the one that distinguishes the 2011 Nissan Maxima from its nearest of the class. CVT maximizes the gas mileage by providing right amount of power to the engine required in a perticular situation for smooth acceleration without compromising on the performance.
Testers estimate Maxima’s acceleration speed to range from zero to 60 mph in about 6.3-6.5 seconds. The EPA estimates fuel consumption at 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
Some of the exterior features in 2011 Nissan Maxima would have sunroof, automatic headlights and halogen headlights. Upgrades and options should include features like exterior mirrors with integrated turn signals, xenon headlights and heated door mirrors.
The cabin has nicely designed interior and materials used for the same are of excellent quality. The iPod integration is one of the best ones out there and the navigation system, which is optional, is nearly similar to other models bu Nissan. Pricing varies from $30,460 to $33,180 for fully equipped model.
In short, Nissan Maxima 2011 is a midsized sporty sedan with a strong V6, precise steering and high-quality interior with high-tech features.
2013 Mazda RX-8
The Mazda RX8 is a sports car manufactured by the already powerful and known Mazda Motor Corporation. The RX-8 sports car is available in three models, Sport, Touring and Grand Touring. For 2013 Mazda RX-8 is expected to be a 4-passenger sports car equipped with two doors in the back that open in the reverse.. This new type of sports car has a one-of-a-kind Renesis rotary engine (that is smaller and lighter than SOHC and DOHC), 250 horses under the hood and takes speed to another level, making the RX-8 test drives to be sheer ecstasy. The source of this speed is the engine fitted with 6-speed manual transmission, with advanced front mid-ship layout. So the RX-8 achieves a speed of 60 miles per hour in 7 seconds and it can cover a distance of quarter of a mile in 15.4 seconds.
This future model has a good reputation concerning security for the driver, but also for the passenger seated in front, being awarded four stars for the first and all five stars for the second in case of head collision. The two doors in the back that open in reverse are made to help the passengers have an easy entrance and exit, although the passengers shouldn’t be taller than 6 feet. Also, In case of a side on crash, the vehicle received four stars.
The three Mazda models come with different equipment. 2013 Mazda RX-8 Sport model comes equipped with 16 inch tires, CD player, air conditioning and of course powerful accessories. The 2013 Mazda RX 8 Touring Model is equipped with a sun roof, lights to combat fog, system with a CD player that can store up to 6 CDs, a rear view mirror that dims headlights and xenon headlights. The 2013 Mazda RX-8 Grand Touring models add a powered driver’s seat, with seats and mirrors that are heated. A navigation system is optional on the Grand Touring model. Also, all models are equipped with air bags in the side for those seated in the front and anti lock disc brakes.
Standard interior amenities include: digital speedometer, large central tachometer, wraparound bucket seats, central backbone, gear-shift and leather upholstery, molded seat backs, Bose audio system that is custom engineered. The RX-8 is also going to feature: stout side sills, rigid body structure, reinforcement structure(”center pillar”), dynamic stability control, electronic brake force distribution, latch child seat anchors and supplemental restraint system.
It is said to be the final year of the RX-8 even though we have no official news from Mazda regarding a new product. However, Dan Mazella over at RotaryNews.com laid a breaking rumor on and about a rotary powered Mazda sports car. Call it the Mazda RX-7 or the RX-9.
Nevertheless there are reasons to believe these rumors could not be really true. Although Mazda has a relatively solid financial position, they won’t throw money on concept designs and prototypes. Only if the economy improves will they be willing to give that a shot and certainly the next generation must be more efficient than the RX-8 and previous RX-7 generations, or else it will not be built.
Just one look at this car and it makes you think that it was built for performance combined with safety, and great looks given by the aerodynamic shapes.
No Comments - Tagged as: Mazda
