Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Thursday, June 13, 2013
2011 Dodge Charger SRT 8
Never underestimate the power of something that looks this mean.
Its kinda easy to do, given that the Dodge Charger has been with us for 5 years now and a new ones on the way. Weve seen it too many times in airport car rental lots and giggled as Mark Harmon and the gang on NCIS make the 6-cylinder ones they drive try to look menacing.
But five minutes in a Charger SRT-8 is enough to wipe that smirk right off my face...and replace it with a great big ear-to-ear grin.
Tromp on the pedal of an SRT-8 and the rear of the car is what everyone else on the road is going to see.
Yes, it has a Hemi. 6.1 liters worth, putting out 425 horsepower with 420 pounds of torque. The 5-speed "AutoStick" automatic transmission is up to the task, though a real six-speed manual would be ideal. Whatever...the point is brute strength and the Charger SRT-8 delivers big time.
According to the window sticker that came with our tester, its the official passenger car of NASCAR, which makes perfect sense. This is what NASCAR used to be. Take a big standard car, stuff the hairiest engine possible under the hood and hang on.
Sophisticated?
Refined?
Elegant?
No...but a big barrel of fun for a reasonable price. Base is $38,180. Yeah, that is awfully close to $40K. Find me this much performance for less than this money and maybe Ill change my mind.
Of course, you can load these up and thats just what the Dodge PR people did. This one had the SRT Option Groups II and III, roughly $2,800 worth of options including an upgraded radio, 13 high performance speakers, a 322-watt amplifier, a 200-watt subwoofer, surround sound, Uconnect, iPod control, a security alarm and a nav system.
Throw in the power sunroof ($950), HID headlamps ($695), performance tire and wheel upgrade ($250), rear seat video system (in a sedan?) ($1,480) and the inevitable gas guzzler tax (13 city/19 highway) of $1,700 and your bottom line after $750 destination charge is $46,850.
If your heart and your bank balance say yes, theres a lot of fun to be had here.
Sunday, May 5, 2013
2011 Geneva Preview De Tomaso SLS Concept
The model that will relaunch De Tomaso at next week’s Geneva motor show will be this Pininfarina-designed BMW 5-series GT-rivalling luxury crossover concept, dubbed SLS.
This model, which was built as a Sport Luxury Sedan (SLS), was made possible with the support of Italian business man Gianmario Rossignolo. However, fans may be disappointed because even if the car is from Pininfarina, there are several elements that don’t belong to what the public expects from a De Tomaso rebirth.
Even if the name that signs the lines of the car belongs to Pininfarina, there’s more than one element that doesnt actually fit with what the public was expecting from a De Tomaso rebirth. The most striking of all is the fact that the model is officially called a sedan, it is in fact a large crossover (until this official announcement, the model was dubbed as a Sport Luxury Crossover, but for some reason that has changed). Thats exactly what fans were NOT expecting.
De Tomaso plans to build two more vehicles on the same architecture with the goal of selling a total of 8,000 units per year. Were hoping to hear more about the marques future plans after we hit the ground in Geneva.
Press Release
During the next Geneva auto show (March 2011) will be unveiled the new De Tomaso Car.
The new De Tomaso company, Chaired by Mr. Gianmario Rossignolo, will unveil a Pininfarina-designed concept for a premium large crossover, dubbed SLS (Sport Luxury Sedan).
The four-wheel-drive SLS is set to go into production this year using two gasoline engines, a 550-hp V-8 and a 300-hp V-6. It will not be sold as the SLS, but the final name will be revealed during the Geneve press conference (1st March 2011 - 3.30 pm).
Rossignolo plans to build 3,000 units a year of the SLS, as well as 3,000 limousines and 2,000 coupes.
The cars will be built at De Tomaso Automobili S.p.A. plant, a former Pininfarina S.p.A. factory near Turin and in the Livorno factory by the ex-Delphi workers.
De Tomasos business plan foreseen for a three-model range of aluminum vehicles based on an innovative construction technology called Univis. Univis requires just about 30 dies to build a vehicle.
During a 22-year career with Fiat group, Gianmario Rossignolo was a top marketing executive at the company and CEO of the Italian automakers Lancia brand from 1977 to 1979.
In December 2009, Rossignolo signed a deal to rent Pininfarinas factory in Grugliasco, in the western outskirts of Turin, one of three Pininfarina plants.
The new De Tomaso company will invest 116 million euros in its rebirth project.
The Grugliasco plan currently employs 900 people and includes a body shop, paint shop and final assembly facility, while in the Livorno one will be employed 150 people.
Friday, May 3, 2013
2011 Dodge Ram Long Hauler Concept User Manual
Dodge is giving the Grand Caravan an extra dose of mojo for 2011. The result is the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T - a minivan that delivers the driving dynamics of a performance sedan and a little bit of attitude. Affectionately known internally within the company as the "man van," the new 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T throws down the gauntlet for a whole new level of cool transportation for families on the go. At the heart of the 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T is an all-new powertrain. The new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine is mated to a smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transaxle and delivers best-in-class horsepower (283 horsepower compared with 197 horsepower in the previous 3.8-liter V-6 engine) and more torque (260 lb.-ft. versus 230 lb.-ft.) without sacrificing fuel economy. Uniquely designed both inside and out, the Dodge Grand Caravan R/T proves a driver doesn have to give up a spirited driving experience or their identity when they have a family. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T unique features include a "dipped" body-color grille, body-color side moldings and exclusive 17-inch wheels. The 2011 Grand Caravan also features a new driver-selectable fuel-economizer mode. Drivers can change the transaxle shift schedule with the flip of a switch to maximize their fuel economy. In addition, a 12 mm lower ride height, new premium, lower-rolling resistance tires, a new spoiler and reduced brake caliper and rear bearing drag all contribute to Dodge Grand Caravans class-leading aerodynamics and excellent fuel economy. An all-new, exclusive to the R/T, all-black interior features exclusive perforated black leather seats with red stitching, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and a premium sound system with nine-speakers, a subwoofer and 506-watt amplifier. Add in a performance-tuned suspension and the weekend warrior runs will never be the same. With sleek, athletic styling, smart, cutting-edge entertainment features, flexible seating, cool storage options, the reliability of a 100,000-mile powertrain warranty and models that fit specific lifestyles, the new Dodge Grand Caravan moves families where they need to go in a way that makes the journey of life easier. Arriving in U.S. dealer showrooms in the Spring of 2011, the R/T model will appeal mainly to customers who have driven a performance sedan, but need the flexibility and functionality of a minivan and are looking for a vehicle with superior handling and agility. The R/T is where extreme versatility meets performance and attitude. The 2011 Dodge Grand Caravan R/T model has a starting U.S. MSRP of $30,595 (excluding $835 destination). The R/T model is available in eight paint colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Pearl Coat, Deep Water Blue Pearl Coat, Stone White Clear Coat, Mango Tango Pearl Coat and Dark Charcoal Pearl Coat.
2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring GLS
Acceleration and Power
The one place the 2011 Hyundai Elantra Touring seems to stumble is its powerplant. The Elantra Touring comes with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 138 horsepower. Reviewers say thats not enough power, particularly when the Elantra Touring is weighed down by people or cargo. A five-speed manual is standard and a four-speed automatic transmission is available for $800 more in the SE and $1,200 more in the GLS. Most reviewers recommend the manual, which they say helps drivers make the most of the Elantra Tourings power; they also note that its a very easy manual to operate.With the manual transmission, the Elantra Touring gets an EPA-estimated 23/31 mpg city/highway fuel economy. With the automatic, the Elantra Touring gets 23/30 mpg city/highway.
A compact with a sporting heart and plenty of space.
It’s not an overstatement to suggest that the new 2011 Elantra Touring is destined to become your favourite way to get around. Impressive interior space combines with European styling, fit and finish to deliver practicality in a perfect package.
The 5-door Elantra Touring represents a new standard in cars that offer exceptionally good value. You’ll enjoy comfortable seating for five, plus generous cargo room. And for times when you need to carry more stuff than people, the rear seatbacks fold down, creating immense cargo space.
And while it’s rare to find a vehicle that uses space efficiently while ensuring a sporty drive, the Elantra Touring is just that. It’s compact and nimble, with an exceptional level of go-power at your disposal. It’s a package that simply gets it right.
If you’re ready to experience a compact that changes the face of the category, put the safe, reliable, spirited 2011 Elantra Touring (L, GL, GLS or GLS with Sport Package) on your radar.
The 5-door Elantra Touring represents a new standard in cars that offer exceptionally good value. You’ll enjoy comfortable seating for five, plus generous cargo room. And for times when you need to carry more stuff than people, the rear seatbacks fold down, creating immense cargo space.
And while it’s rare to find a vehicle that uses space efficiently while ensuring a sporty drive, the Elantra Touring is just that. It’s compact and nimble, with an exceptional level of go-power at your disposal. It’s a package that simply gets it right.
If you’re ready to experience a compact that changes the face of the category, put the safe, reliable, spirited 2011 Elantra Touring (L, GL, GLS or GLS with Sport Package) on your radar.
2011 Subaru Impreza
2011 Subaru Impreza
That CVT (a five-speed manual is also available) is paired to Subaru’s new 2.0-liter boxer engine which has a longer stroke than before, variable valve timing and 148 horsepower. Overall, Subaru claims the new Impreza is 30-percent more efficient than the 2011 model. Depending on transmission choice, two different types of Subaru’s Symmetrical AWD are offered. Manual-equipped cars get a continuous version with a viscous coupling locking center diff. CVT cars receive an active version that is managed electronically through a continuously variable transfer clutch, with settings based on throttle use and available grip.
Compared to the outgoing Impreza, the 2012 version retains the same exterior dimensions while gaining interior volume – both legroom and cargo space. Subaru moved the Impreza’s A-pillar forward by 8 inches, lengthening the front doors and pushing the windshield forward to make the cabin feel more spacious as well.
In keeping with current protocol, both four- and five-door Imprezas will continue to be produced and trim levels range from the base 2.0i with 15-inch steel wheels to the Premium and Limited versions, along with available sport packages.
While no official comment was available on when the next Impreza-based WRX might be available, we’d expect to see the first glimpses of a new version early next year, several months after the standard Impreza’s showroom launch this fall.
First, the matter of MPGs. Presently, today’s Impreza is EPA rated at 20/27 mpg (city/highway), provided the 2.5-liter boxer-four-cylinder is mated to the base five-speed manual transmission. Opt for the four-speed automatic, and those numbers drop to 20/26 mpg. Never mind the all-wheel-drive — that’s rather low for a compact car, and it’s hard for non-Subaru loyalists (or buyers who don’t demand all-wheel-drive) to wrap their heads around.
Thankfully, those figures take a giant leap upwards due in part to some new powertrain. The signature symmetrical all-wheel-drive system remains, but the SOHC 2.5-liter flat-four is eschewed for a new DOHC, 2.0-liter boxer-four-cylinder. At 147 horsepower and 145 pound-feet of torque, the engine does trail the outgoing 2.5-liter ever so slightly, but the reward is a thirst for fuel that’s vastly reduced.
Finalized EPA figures are still forthcoming, but at this stage, Subaru estimates a 2012 Impreza, fitted with the five-speed manual transaxle, will earn a 25/ 34 mpg rating. Opt for the new continuously variable transmission (which replaces the aging four-speed auto), and those figures rise to 27/ 36 mpg. An impressive improvement, and Subaru says that 36-mpg figure bests any other AWD vehicle presently for sale in the U.S.
Owners will appreciate the improved efficiency over time, but they’ll likely immediately appreciate the interior revisions. As is the case with the Impreza’s exterior, the new cabin borrows a number of cues from the larger Legacy sedan, and designers labored to rid it of the hard, plasticky materials that were peppered throughout the previous car. Softer materials were used liberally on areas frequently touched, including dash pad, arm rest, door panels, and more. It’s a refreshing departure, and we’re also happy to see Subaru crafted a new nagivation system from scratch. Our time with the system has been limited, but it immediately looks, feels, and functions much better than the current Impreza’s awkward TomTom-based system.
Pricing hasn’t been set, but officials tell us the new car won’t be much more expensive than the outgoing 2011 model, which starts at $17,495. Expect finalized figures to emerge this fall, when the 2012 Impreza hits U.S. showrooms.
LA 2010 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet
Nissan has releases photos and details for the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet
The automaker touts the midsize Murano CrossCabriolet as the “world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible,” featuring room for four adults along with space for assorted gear such as golf clubs or luggage. Here at Family Car Guide, we think that qualifies the new Murano CrossCabriolet as a family vehicle.
The power of the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 comes from the 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 engine developing 265 hp and 248 lb-ft of torque coupled with the second-generation Xtronic CVT transmission with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC). The Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 is equipped with an all-wheel drive system, the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors.
For extra safety, the Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet 2011 also comes with 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and a G-sensor.
The cabrios top is hydraulically operated with an automated latch/unlatch function. Trunk space with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet (0.2 cubic meters). Other technology includes the High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights and the LED taillights similar to those on the Nissan 370Z.
The Murano CrossCabriolet also promises a lot of amenities for the driver, as there is just one fully loaded trim level available starting at $46,390, not including an $800 destination charge. That means a navigation system and Bose stereo, heated leather seats, dual-zone climate control and 20-inch wheels are standard equipment.
Source: Nissan
Press Release
2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet – “Innovation for Fun” Leads Design of World’s First AWD Crossover Convertible
– Bold Expression of Nissan’s Commitment to Design and Innovation Goes On Sale in Early 2011, Offered in One Luxurious All-Wheel Drive Model –
As the world’s first all-wheel drive crossover convertible, the 2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet breaks new ground in both the crossover SUV and convertible segments. With its never seen before design and custom boutique style, the Murano CrossCabriolet is unlike anything on the road – blending all of the things people love in a crossover with the open air enjoyment of a convertible. Making its world debut at the 2010 Los Angeles Auto Show, the Murano CrossCabriolet is scheduled to go on sale at Nissan dealers nationwide in early 2011.
“When people think of a crossover, they think of a combination of the driving sophistication of a sedan with the utility of a sport utility. This new Murano CrossCabriolet adds an unexpected third element, the ability to make everyday activities more exciting with open air driving,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. “However, with its extraordinarily engineered convertible top, standard all-wheel drive and room for four adults plus cargo, the CrossCabriolet is not just for cruising South Beach or Malibu. It’s a vehicle to take to lunch, running errands or on a long ski weekend in any part of the country.”
Possibilities Await: Murano CrossCabriolet Design Concept
The impetus behind innovation is often as simple as asking questions not posed before, such as how do you overcome the functional limitations of a convertible? “Everyone loves the convertible experience, no one loves the convertible reality – compromised trunk space, a cramped back seat or none at all, and a lack of flexibility for everyday life,” said Castignetti. “The Murano CrossCabriolet is the reinvention of versatility, encouraging people to rethink what a convertible can be.”
The all-new Murano CrossCabriolet overcomes these obstacles, combining elegant design and state-of-the-art engineering. One of the priorities in the convertible top design was the retention of the traditional Murano silhouette with the top up, and a luxurious, sophisticated appearance with the top down.
The transformation of the Murano body from Crossover to CrossCabriolet and from 4-door to 2-door meant more than just removing the top. Along with creating new front doors (7.9 inches longer than 4-door Murano front doors) and eliminating the B-pillars, the structure has been reinforced from the A-pillar rearward. The cloth convertible top also includes a rear glass skylight, helping create a wide-open interior environment even with the top in the closed position. Dual Pop-up Roll Bars are also standard. The coefficient of drag remains close to that of the hardtop Murano, just 0.39 Cd versus 0.37 Cd.
One of the keys to the CrossCabriolet’s design’s success is the convertible top’s exceptionally compact size when stowed, which allows both additional interior and cargo volume (normally taken up by a traditional convertible stowage design). The hydraulically operated top mechanism includes an automatic power latch/unlatch system. Operation switches are located on the center console and driver’s door handle. With the top down, the stowed size is similar to that of a conventional 2-seat roadster. Trunk capacity with the top down is 7.6 cubic feet, enough to fit two sets of golf clubs or two carry-on suitcases. With the top closed, cargo capacity expands to 12.3 cubic feet.
Along with the unique convertible top appearance, the Murano CrossCabriolet exterior also includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-functional xenon projector headlights with auto on/off function, front fog lights and Nissan 370Z-inspired LED taillights.
Other features include body-colored front and rear bumpers, chrome door handles, body-colored dual power/heated outside mirrors, and rear window defroster with timer. Along with convertible style, the CrossCabriolet offers the high ground clearance of a Murano for easy ingress and egress and enhanced driver visibility.
Six exterior colors are available: unique Murano CrossCabriolet colors Sunset Bronze and Caribbean, plus Merlot, Platinum Graphite, Super Black and Pearl White.
A Highly Rewarding Interior
The luxurious Murano CrossCabriolet interior starts with a foundation of the top-of-the-line Murano LE and takes it to the next level of standard features and convenience items. The tall windshield and A-pillar design combines with the body’s high beltline and high rear seat shoulders to help reduce conventional interior air turbulence with the top down, allowing conversation between occupants.
Premium materials are used throughout the interior, with the standard leather- appointed seats available in a diagonally quilted premium leather, double-stitched pattern for added elegance. The interior’s curving, sculpted lines, half-matte chromed trim finish and unique wood-tone trim, tuned to match each of three available interior colors, add an additional rich, quality feel. Interior colors include Black, Cashmere (light brown) and Camel (brown).
The Murano CrossCabriolet comes fully equipped, with a long list of standard features including 8-way power heated driver’s seat with power lumbar support, 4-way manual heated front passenger seat with easy entry function, heated steering wheel, 2-position driver’s seat memory system for seat, steering wheel and outside mirrors, passenger seat easy entry release button on instrument panel for driver access, driver and front passenger seatback pocket, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and Nissan Intelligent Key™ with Push Button Ignition.
Every CrossCabriolet also comes with a standard Nissan Hard-Drive Navigation System with 9.3GB Music Box® hard drive and XM NavTraffic® (XM® subscription required, sold separately), Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, HomeLink® Universal Transceiver and RearView Monitor.
Open-air road tunes are provided by a Bose® AM/FM/CD audio system with 8 speakers including subwoofer, automatic audio adjustment for soft-top up/down position, integrated Interface System for iPod®, speed-sensitive volume control and auxiliary audio input jack. XM® satellite Radio (XM® subscription requires, sold separately) is also standard.
“The interior of the Murano CrossCabriolet provides a custom boutique feel. With numerous color combinations offered between the exterior, interior and convertible top, owners can express their own distinctive sense of style,” added Castignetti. “It’s a rare convertible that allows four passengers to feel equally comfortable, which this stunning new design absolutely does – as well as equally indulged.”
Under the Skin: Pure Murano
Open air driving is not the only emotional reward the Murano CrossCabriolet provides – it also offers a secure, rewarding driving experience. Its no-compromise drivetrain is shared with the all-wheel drive hardtop Murano, starting with the proven “D” platform (also utilized on Maxima and Altima sedans) and standard 3.5-liter 24-valve DOHC V6 producing 265 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. The engine design includes the Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), twin knock sensors, low exhaust pressure, a 10.3:1 compression ratio, and 6,000 rpm redline.
The engine is mated to a standard second-generation Xtronic CVT™ with Adaptive Shift Control (ASC) for sporty response and smoothness, which utilizes an advanced, sport-tuned controller with adaptive logic for driving comfort or driving performance as conditions require. The advanced all-wheel drive system connects the Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) system, yaw sensors, wheel slip sensors and steering angle sensors to distribute torque according to driving conditions.
The Murano CrossCabriolet’s lightweight 4-wheel independent suspension features MacPherson struts in front, a multi-link rear design, cradle-type front subframe and front and rear stabilizer bars. Also utilized are dual-flow path shock absorbers for responsiveness and reduced ride harshness.
Steering is provided by a twin-orifice vehicle-speed-sensitive power-assisted steering system, while the braking system includes 4-wheel vented disc brakes with Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and G-sensor. Every CrossCabriolet comes with 20-inch split 5-spoke titanium finish aluminum-alloy wheels with P235/55R20 Toyo Proxes A20 all-season tires.
Standard Murano CrossCabriolet safety features include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual stage supplemental front air bags with seat belt sensors and an occupant classification sensor and door-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor, along with front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters, Zone Body Construction with front and rear crumple zones, front seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitor System (TPMS), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Vehicle Security System (VSS) and Dual Pop-up Roll Bars.
One Fully Equipped Model
The 2011 Murano CrossCabriolet is offered in one fully equipped model. Along with the many items previously mentioned, standard features include power front windows with one-touch up/down and auto-reverse feature, Dual-Zone Automatic Temperature Control, and a 7-inch color display for audio, climate control, fuel economy, maintenance and comfort and convenience systems.
Also included are highly functional storage systems, including a two-tier center console storage box with fold-out function, cell phone holder, dual seatback pockets, Fine Vision gauges and driver instrumentation with white backlighting, illuminated steering wheel controls, auto door lock feature, four cupholders, tilting and telescoping steering column, auto-dimming rearview mirror, cruise control with illuminated steering wheel mounted switches, front door map pockets, and Remote Keyless Entry (RKE) system.
Only two options are available with specific exterior colors – a Camel interior with upgraded leather and the black top, and the Brown top/Cashmere interior combination (with upgraded leather).
“The versatility and functionality of a true all-wheel drive crossover, the unique open air driving experience of a pure convertible – the Murano CrossCabriolet is a breakthrough in concept, design and execution,” said Castignetti. “Innovation meets Murano with stunning results.”
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