Mazda CAROL

As for Carol of Mazda, alto of SUZUKI is an OEM supply car of the bases. "The favorite car which is usable willingly in everyday one's time" is a concept.

It is assumed that a packaging that treated easily, a unique, friendly externals, a bright, functional interior, and excellent fuel cost, the environment, and the safe performance, were achieved it is easy to drive aiming at the female user. Overall height 50mm, indoor high 30mm, the amount of seat sitting improve 25mm in comparison with the model conventionally in a front seat and enlarge a indoor space. The head clearance of composure was achieved. As for externals and the interior, the combination of the curve and the straight line is based, and unique parts such as rear combination lamps that make a rectangular headlamp and the circular arc a motif are adopted. The fender which protruded in the four corners, the bread par with the thickness are unique. A comfortable space has been achieved as the pressure feeling is reduced with a narrow central panel. The feature is excellent in the practicality as the rearward visibility is secured with an adoption of check visually a high, large-scale meter and the big backing door glass. Convenient equipment such as hooks and large-scale glove boxes set up under instrumental panel is adopted.

The engine is a setting only of natural suction. GII that equips with electric storage type door mirror and deep colored glass in July, 2006 is added. The seat epidermal also changes besides front bumper & grill is changed to the onepiece design in December, 2006, and the main grade has been suited to the green taxation plan at the same time.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/mazda/carol.php

Mazda CAROL Review video

Mazda AZ-WAGON

It was attended though WAGON R restyled in October, 2003, and the AZ WAGON reborn to the new generation model, too. It is the one that the versatile type wagon corresponding to a variegated use scene of a wide user was evolved.
The platform that becomes the foundation of the car is completely changed. The comfortable ride, running, and quietness have improved by a newly developed suspension and the car body construction. The roof is long, the room is widened by widening it after the externals image of the rectangle is followed, and the space of composure has been achieved the height. The easiness of getting on and off to do has been improved by making the seat easy to position, and expanding the door opening. The room adopts a simple, openhearted design. Raised total feel of a material and optimized placement of each switches, and set abundant storage space, and the good point of the convenience is considered. The double folding mechanism that can fold the rear seat one-touch is adopted in the rear seat. A variegated seat arrangement was enabled.
There are four kinds of engines like turbo that adopt the direct-injection method to jet the fuel directly in the cylinder. The body color is abundantly prepared with 12 all colors. At first, RR of a senior grade was set. Changing in exterior and interior, making of equipment, and enhanced the engine were improved in September, 2005. Exterior and interior was added in February, 2007 and the custom style to which the grade improved was added. In the partial improvement in May, 2007, the enhancement of equipment was aimed at besides the design of exterior and interior was changed according to the grade. Moreover, T of a new grade was added to the custom style.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/mazda/az-wagon.php

Mazda AZ-WAGON Review Video

Mazda AXELA Car Review

AXELA was marketed as a succession large-scale sale model of FAMILIA in October,2003. As the staple merchandise of Mazda, the model made as next generation compact sports that pass globally in four corners of the movement performance, the design, the quality, the package, and the safety.
"Comfortable quality in five senses" was achieved in the interior and a high-quality feeling of upper class in addition to a basic making crowding and the functionality was achieved in the motto.
A newly developed platform is adopted. The point to have made operativeness that adopted the suspension system of the new design that adopted the multi link type, in the same form as ATENZA, in front and rear, and was excellent and steady driving comfort demonstrated is a feature as for MacPherson type which concluded Sascrosmembar with the body with four point rubber mount.

The engine acquires both low exhaust gas recognition of 1.5L/2.0L/2.3L with straight four cylinders DOHC. Actibmatic with the manual mode function is adopted for the AT all cars.

In the minor change in November, 2005, the utility such as audio and auto light system/rain sensor wiper expanded the grade by which the standard was installed, and was set to a new body color. 2.0L and 2.3L cars are improved at 5speed AT besides the specification of the exterior design and the interior in about June, 2006 is changed, and Mazda Speed AXELA (23S) equipped with 2.3L turbo also does an additional setting.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/mazda/axela.php

Mazda AXELA Car Review Video

Mitsubishi COLT PLUS Car Review

COLT PLUS of improving utility around cargo room as estate car based on COLT of compact car. It was put on the market in October, 2004. A rear overhang is expanded compared with the COLT, and about 300mm is extended and the load room is expanded. Flexible cargo floor that can freely arrange the cargo room area and convenience by one-touch folding seat to which rear seatback can be knocked down only by operating the lever of the electric opening and shutting type tail gate and the cargo room that becomes the first in the class and an easy operation are adopted.
The externals design expressed the style with an unrestricted only PLUS in an extending rear part based on the COLT. The room sets the interior color of three types according to the grade. The quality feeling was expressed by coordinating the color and the material based on the world of the COLT that caused richness oppositely by decreasing the element.
The installing engine is NA（Natural Aspiration) and a turbo specification of 1.5L. As for the transmission, CVT (gearless transmission) is combined with all cars. The vehicle exhaust emission performance of the NA engine was improved besides a biotechnology clear filter was adopted by the minor change in November, 2005, and the safety equipment was enhanced. The externals design of the RALLIART is changed in May, 2006, RECARO seat is improved, and the output of the engine has been improved besides the option is set. The equipment of the base grade was improved in November, 2006, and the expansion of the variation was aimed at as the grade of the enhancement equipment was set. The changing the speed pattern of CVT is changed at the same time and fuel cost has been improved.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/mitsubishi/coltplus.php

Mitsubishi COLT PLUS Car Review Video

Mitsubishi COLT 2002 Review

The new platform shared with Daimler Chrysler was used for the Colt put on the market in November, 2002, and it was developed as a world-strategy car with which the basic performance (good run of safety, low mpg, clean discharge gas, and a response) as a compact car was united by high order origin. From a front bumper to a roof bridge, the style considers as a "one motion form" which flows, turns out to be a Colt at a glance, and designs. The front mask which arranged the three diamond greatly is characteristic. The interior of a room gives comfortable field composition and a feeling of a round which is wrapped in gently, and two kinds, bright warm interior and the cool interior of a sporty atmosphere, are set up. Selection of a separation and a bench is possible for a front sheet. As for a rear sheet, a setup and all can a right-and-left independent slide sheet and really arrange a slide sheet freely according to use scenes, such as a reclining, a slide, and a tongue bull. Moreover, it made sidewalk through possible by adoption of a column formula shift and a step formula brake. Engine is DOHC MIVEC of 1.3L&1.5L which is newly developed. With the combination of this and CVT (gearless drive mechanism), it is said that it was light and the good run of a response was realized. A dual airbag system etc. serves as all car standard equipments. Moreover, the "customer free choice" which can combine equipment according to each life style is introduced. A part will be improved in October, 2003. The recommendation package of 1.3L and a 1.5L model was made common, and also UV& heat protection glass was adopted.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/mitsubishi/colt.php

Mitsubishi COLT 2002 Review Video

Honda ZEST Review

New light car that HONDA put on the market on March 1, 2006. It is a car turned on according to it though HONDA integrates three sales channels on the same day, and the system that all dealers treat all models of HONDA started. As for ZEST, the LIFE, THAT'S, and the car making that queued up for three to be developed as one of the pillars, and to consider the man user were performed.
A trapezoid design giving the impression that it is boxy as for the appearance-style is a characteristic, and two kinds of appearance of ZEST SPORTS system which wore normal ZEST system and an aeropart is set. A basic platform adopted the LIFE and the packaging that it was common, and secured very wide spaciousness as a light car. Especially, big room that extends to overhead is paid to attention. The back door can boast of a maximum level opening area in the light car besides opening from a low position, and the bulky luggage be loaded easily, too.
The installing engines are 2 valves SOHC of straight-3 660cc, and i-DSI engines of a twin plug that ignite the phase lag. Two kinds (natural suction and turbo) are prepared. The turbo specification generates the power of 47kW(64ps) that reaches the upper bound of the light car. It is only all car and electronically controlled 4-speed AT settings. As for the drive system, 4WD of the Biscascappring type is set to all grades based on FF.
The enhancement of equipment was aimed at as the minor change was done in January, 2007, grade W of ZEST SPORTS was equipped with the full auto air conditioner besides the variation of ZEST was squeezed, and all cars were equipped normally with the security alarm.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/honda/zest.php

Honda ZEST Review Video

Honda THAT'S Review

THAT'S put on the market in February, 2002 is a car in the concept that is developed, and simply uses easily, and aimed at a smart, unique new proposal type light multi-wagon as for". As for externals that make "Style doesn't affect" a concept, a simple design that integrates the headlight with the turn signal lamp, expresses powerful and the play mind including an oblong headlight that emphasizes a wide feeling, and gives the corner roundness features. The interior has been brought together by the tone where it settles down silver and the black. The seat name tag to express the seat fabric and the play mind with installmental panel and the luster feelings of having imaged a simple table produce the space of the relaxation. The seat that was able to be arranged easily according to a flat floor and the purpose with few differences to which it got on and off easily was adopted besides the four corners of the cabin was kept away by square externals and the area around driver's head was secured. ZEST had been put on the market one month ago in March, 2006, the variation was arranged greatly, and it became set only of one grade that took equipment for a past special edition. The turbo car is abolished at the same time, it becomes set only of the natural suction engine, and it is combined with 3speed AT of the column-shift type. The drive system sets reaktype 4WD besides FF. The safety equipment such as dual bars only for the SRS air bag and the child seat fixation becomes all car standard, too.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/honda/thats.php

Honda THAT'S Review

Honda MOBILIO SPIKE

It appears in September, 2002. The feature in the SPIKE though MOBILIO of the base was a minivan of the seat of three rows for the family user was to have made a seat of two rows and an overwhelming cargo spece. The concept is a garage box. For person who goes out to have a good time by using car. For person who wants to play with car. SPIKIE is a new sense commuter for them.
The central tank layout that arranges the fuel tank under the first row seat, and it has wide spaciousness on a low floor. As for the second row seat, the down of the diving is done by an easy operation and it becomes flat, and various usages such as knocking down the seat in the passenger's seat and making long luggage easy to pile up are possible.
The installing engine is 1.5L VTEC. A twin plug was adopted, and a practical torque and the fuel cost performance were achieved, and the balance was done by a high dimension, and a smooth running was achieved by combining HONDA multimatics of CVT that was able to be used as 7speed manual.
Various option equipment has been enhanced in February, 2004 as water-repellent seat epidermal, voice recognition HDD navigation system with a rear camera, door lining epidermal is set besides the large-scale plating grill and rear bumper garnish are adopted and the image of externals is changed.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/honda/mobilio_spike.php

Honda MOBILIO SPIKE VIDEO

Honda MOBILIO Review

MOBILIO put on the market in December, 2001. It is the compact minivan which was developed by the target in the user who wishes "I want to have the style of having used the streetcar of Europe as the motif, and to master a car as a tool of a life every day", and was developed by the concept in the daily design. Short nose with the compact body of about 4m and low-floor packaging have realized seven-person riding of 3 sequence sheet. It is said that 3 sequence sheet secured the amenity which can sit down firmly according to the center layout which arranged the fuel tank on the bottom of 1 sequence sheet. Moreover, a maximum of 260mm slide is possible for 2 sequence sheet. Furthermore, it has the colorful sheet arrangement which can also load a load with the high back to 1360mm of indoor quantities, and about 2.6m long load. The door of a backseat adopts the both-sides slide door which is easy to get on and off in a narrow place. Interior design is devised so that the bottom end of door glass may be set as a low position and a child can also enjoy an outer scene by what the width and the feeling of opening of indoor space are impressed in by big glass area. Engine is 1.5L. of all cars, and transmission has adopted infinitely variable Honda multimatic S. In the minor change in January, 2004, order appearance was renewed and also comfortable nature and a feeling of opening, such as equipping 2 sequence sheet with a large-sized arm rest (except for Y type), are raised. Moreover, high environmental performances -- all types will suit discharge gas regulation in Heisei 17 -- were also realized.

source:http://japanusedcar.net/pickup/honda/mobilio.php

Honda MOBILIO Review Video

Honda LIFE Wagon

It is September, 2003 that life of the 3rd generation was born after revival. Heart full technology with the technology that considered for a heart to be considerate of a person is keyword. It was easy to use relief, fashion, niceness and aimed at the clean new generation light car. When the car collides mutually, the body for compatibility that is efficiently distributed energy and absorbed in the engine room is adopted in the body. The self-protection performance has improved greatly, too. A great making about 95mm Shortonorz is achieved by installing of the engine that shortens the back and forth length compared with the old model. High roadholding acquisition by a length and wheelbase achievement of the light car maximum level and a wide, comfortable spaciousness were achieved. The form from which the fender dashes out back and forth is a feature in externals. The interior aimed at a bright, comfortable space, and achieved variable type rear seat divided into 5:5, and the down of the diving was done by an easy operation, and various usages were achieved.
The engine is newly developed three cylinders SOHC i-DSI, and has the turbo specification. It is Lock-Up mechanism addition 4-speed AT that is combined. It can enjoy 12 all colors and the body colors abundantly prepared. Equipment was enhanced as a security alarm, a allergy free high performance deodorization filter, and a keyless entry were equipped normally in the minor change in September, 2006 according to the grade besides the design of the back and rear such as bumpers and headlights was changed. The smart parking assistance system that supported the steering wheel operation when parking to backward was newly set in the option.

Honda Life 2006 Model

Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster -2012

If you live north of the Mason-Dixon line, chances are you’ll find winter an unusual time of year to launch a new convertible -- a product hinged on the availability of sunny, temperate weather. Perhaps so, but the new 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK can supply panoramic views of the skies above year-round, rain, snow, or shine.

Those charged with shaping the SLK’s exterior form continue to be inspired by exotic machinery, but it does appear their influence has evolved. While the last model, which debuted in 2004, copped a few design cues from the McLaren-built SLR, the 2012 SLK is undoubtedly influenced by Mercedes’ new SLS AMG supercar. The tapered snout and split upper grille are no more; instead, the SLK wears a blunt, squared-off front fascia, complete with a broad, expansive grille in keeping with the company’s latest design ethic.

2012 Mercedes Benz SLK Front View In Motion
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Although the general profile of the new SLK differs little from its predecessor, a few small touches do help set it apart. Fenders are a little more square than before, and new front fender vents, inspired by those on the 1957 300 SL roadster, neatly transition into crisp character lines. An uninterrupted lower air intake is certainly attractive, but is replaced by the previous three-section grille when the sport package -- which also throws in aggressive side sills, a new rear diffuser, and larger wheels -- is added.

As has been the case since the model’s inception, a retractable folding hardtop is an SLK hallmark, but this time around, buyers have more than one choice in the matter. A conventional metal roof continues to be standard equipment, but a new folding glass roof, similar to that offered on the larger SL Class roadster, is now optional.

2012 Mercedes Benz SLK Rear View Driving
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The true piece de resistance, however, is an optional panoramic roof equipped with what Benz calls Magic Sky Control. A solution containing magnetic particles is embedded within the glass. Normally, the particles are scattered, blocking most light from permeating the pane. Once an electric charge is applied, however, the particles align themselves, allowing the roof to change from opaque to translucent at the touch of a button.

source:http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/convertibles/1101_2012_mercedes_benz_slk_roadster_first_look/index.html

Mercedes-Benz SLK Roadster -2012

Jeep Liberty 2011 Road Testing

When an automaker's resources are limited, logic suggests they be diverted to the product that will deliver the greatest return. So it's not surprising that the all-new Grand Cherokee has gotten the lion's share of Jeep's attention, and its vastly improved sales results speak for themselves. For those models farther down the ladder, such as the 2011 Jeep Liberty, the changes are far less dramatic.

Updated significantly for the 2008 model year, the 2011 Liberty is but a mild mid-cycle refresh, despite the need for more drastic action. In fact, Jeep only lists four changes, one of which is a selection of new paint colors.

2011 Jeep Liberty Off Roading Front Three Quarters View
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More important than the three new paint colors are some small interior refinements. Most significant is the new corporate Jeep steering wheel that not only looks better, but is more functional. The new three-spoke wheel offers better materials, more optional steering wheel-mounted controls, and even leather for discerning off-roaders.

Besides the steering wheel, buyers will be most pleased to find a reprogrammed optional touch screen infotainment system. In addition to minor interface upgrades that make it easier to use, the system now offers Garmin-based navigation that's a major improvement over the old unit.

2011 Jeep Liberty Jet Front Three Quarters View
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The final update for 2011 is an optional package called Jet. Available on Sport and Limited models, the Jet package is the polar opposite of the Renegade off-road package introduced midway through the 2010 model year. Urban-targeted Jet models get chrome trim, blacked-out headlight surrounds, 20-inch chrome wheels and four additional color options. Inside, they pick up a nine-speaker premium audio system, heated seats, leather trim on the steering wheel, one-touch windows, and optional gray leather seating.

The 2011 Liberty is otherwise identical to the 2010 model. The wheezy 3.7-liter V-6 and four-speed automatic remain, as do the optional part- or full-time 4WD systems. We hope the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 will be added soon, along with the new eight-speed auto. Or Jeep might just wait until the Fiat-based Liberty-replacement hits the market in 2014, but we hope not.

source:http://www.motortrend.com/roadtests/suvs/1012_2011_jeep_liberty_first_drive/index.html

Jeep Liberty 2011 Road Testing Video

CTS-V Coupe Race Car 2011

It's believed by many automakers that involvement in motorsports improves not just race cars, but road cars as well. To that end, Cadillac will be returning to the Sports Car Club of America's World Challenge series in 2011 with a race-prepped CTS-V Coupe which General Motors will display at the 2011 Detroit auto show.

Cadillac is no stranger to the SCCA World Challenge, having contested the GT Class series in a Cadillac CTS-V sedan during the 2004-2007 seasons. Cadillac even won the Manufacturer's Championship in 2005 and 2007, also scoring the Driver's Championship in 2005 with driver Andy Pilgrim. Pilgrim is back for the 2011 effort, alongside fellow American driver Johnny O'Connell, himself a motorsports veteran.

The SCCA World Challenge series is production based, meaning all cars competing are racing versions of road cars able to be purchased by the general public. While each car is upgraded in terms of both performance and safety, including some bodywork modification and tuning of the engine, suspension, and brakes, the cars remain relatively close to their production specification.

"Returning to racing in the SCCA World Challenge is a great way to demonstrate the performance and capability of the CTS-V Coupe, " said Don Butler, vice president for Cadillac marketing. 'The racecars in this series are production based which allows us to validate our performance against the best of our competitors on the track, and not just the showroom."

2011 Cadillac CTS V Race Car Rear Illustration
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Pratt & Miller, an engineering firm in Michigan that has also been responsible for Chevrolet's all-conquering C5.R and C6.R race cars, along with the new Corvette GT2 class American Le Mans Series racers and road-going C6RS, will be co-developing the CTS-V Coupe race car with GM's performance department. Like many others competing in production-based series, General Motors says it will use what it learns to further the development of its street cars.

"The SCCA World Challenge lends itself to a natural transfer of knowledge," said Jim Campbell, GM vice president for Performance Vehicles and Motorsports. "The series will become a key test-bed for Cadillac. We anticipate using what we learn on the racetrack to ensure the V-Series stays on the cutting edge of performance.

The 2011 SCCA World Challenge series opens March 25-27 in St. Petersburg, Florida.

source:http://www.motortrend.com/auto_shows/detroit/2011/1101_2011_cadillac_ctsv_coupe_race_car/index.html

CTS-V Coupe Race Car 2011

Mazda Furai Concept Car

It's called Furai, and designer Franz von Holzhausen says it's supposed to look like streamers fluttering in the wind. It's the fifth concept in Mazda's Nagare (flow) series and the visual realization of zoom zoom. If you say so, Franz.

But then the car comes roaring down Laguna Seca's pit lane. I can't find the words. It looks so...so...bitchin! I've regressed to sputtering seventh-grade superlatives.

Wicked. Sick. Badass, yo.

Furai's a concept that's breathtakingly simple on paper, yet fiendishly complicated in execution: "Let's take a full race chassis and drop a concept-car body on top."
Mazda Furai Concept Side View
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Of course, there's more to it than that -- you need an engine, in this case a 458-horsepower, triple-rotor race-ready unit running on pure ethanol (E100) -- the first rotary to do so. Mazda refers to the rotary/ethanol combo as sustainable zoom zoom -- not that flowing fields of corn will spring to mind when the Furai hits the stand at the rapidly approaching 2008 Detroit auto show.

Furai was developed in an exceptionally short amount of time for a concept. It was birthed in the early summer of 2007 and since then von Holzhausen's team has run the gauntlet at a Furai-ous pace (couldn't resist) to get the car in running condition. With no time to test around the busy design-department schedule, everyone from the clay modelers to the MazdaSpeed engineers were basically crawling over one another to get the car done. For the powertrain guys, that meant getting up at 5 a.m. to be at the track so they could start and run the car for the first time -- this morning.
Mazda Furai Concept Rear Three Quarter View
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Thank goodness it's an open-decibel day at Laguna, where we're summoned to check out the Furai in all its flowing glory. Still, I bet the track guys got some calls -- if not about Furai's furious phwooooaaaaarr, then about the chopper buzzing low around the track grabbing video.

In addition to the aerial assault, the video team also brought along a Porsche 911 GT3 as a camera car. Mounted to the hood in a complicated arrangement of gaffers' tape and suction cups is a massive HD camera. Off the back bumper is a duplicate camera mount for lead/follow footage. It's an impressive setup that manages to raise eyebrows even amongst the jaded crew of journalists in attendance. As the Furai starts to flow over Laguna's twists and turns, it's clear the GT3 will be doing a lot of following today, with the Porsche arriving in the pits some 5-10 seconds after the Furai during its shakedown laps. And from what we're told, the Furai's driver is taking it easy.

source:http://www.motortrend.com/future/concept_cars/112_0712_mazda_furai_concept/index.html

Mazda Furai Concept Car Review

Volkswagen Jetta Car

Few small cars have the following of the Volkswagen Jetta, VW's best-selling model in the U.S. The name, says VW, refers to the Atlantic jetstream, "combined with the luxury and power of a modern jetliner."

Early models were homely and underpowered, but a successful mid-1990s redesign established the Volkswagen Jetta as the compact sedan of choice for up-and-coming buyers in their 20s. This model's subtly upscale cabin accommodations, fun-to-drive demeanor and VW-cool styling set it apart from mainstream economy cars. The availability of a diesel model called the TDI meant that the Jetta could be very fuel-efficient as well. Later, Volkswagen added a Jetta wagon, which proved popular with young families.

Recently, VW noted that the average Jetta buyer was now in his 30s and likely in need of more room. So the company made the fifth-generation model (2005 to present) considerably larger, transforming it from a compact into a midsize car. In the process, styling cues and handling characteristics were softened, giving the Jetta a more conventional look and feel

source:.http://www.edmunds.com/volkswagen/jetta/

Volkswagen Jetta Car video

Mercedes E550 Cabriolet

The E550 Cabriolet looks the part of luxury convertible cruiser in every way. It's not the sort of luxury convertible that you'd take the family to the Whippi-Dip; rather the one you'd use to take the friends out to gelato on a hot summer night.

From pretty much every angle, whether you're following the chiseled, pointed front end, bold mesh-backed grille, and uninhibited three-pointed star in front; or the graceful fender crease in back, which rolls through with complexity to the rear lights; it's a beauty.

There's certainly that, but there's more. As I found when I had the chance to drive the E-Class Cabriolet a couple of times over the past several months, the E550 has a lot more attitude—and quickness—than you might think.

More attitude, and it's seriously quick

First off, the E550 doesn't have the strong-yet-demure, turbine-like character that's accompanied pretty much every other non-AMG Mercedes-Benz V-8 in recent history. This current one—making 382 horsepower from 5.5 liters—is a little more extroverted than we've come to expect, especially here in the Cabriolet. Just off its slightly lumpy idle, there's a deep, resonant bark, and rev toward the top and the V-8 sings out with a growl and a surprising bite, impressing as more than a little AMG-like.

It's fast. The E550 Cabriolet can get to 60 mph in the low-five-second range, according to track testing from several sources.

A seven-speed automatic transmission comes hooked up to the V-8 and seemed to adapt quickly to different driving styles—not at all wasting revs when we were just plodding along with traffic but holding gears a bit longer when we'd just been tromping it in the curves. Dial up Sport mode—which commands stiffer damper settings—and the transmission earns a little more eagerness. Paddle-shifters are there, but I only felt compelled to use them a couple of times.

Disconcertingly serene...and a little detached

The top-down experience in the E550 Cabriolet is disconcertingly serene. In a MX-5 Miata, for instance, a glance down at the speedometer at grin-inducing speeds usually reveals that you're not going as fast as you think. But in the E550 is an altogether different kind of spirited top-down car. Even with the top down, I found myself easing up for corners and hammering away at the straights, periodically glancing down at the speedo...and being a bit surprised at how fast I was going.

At less than 4,100 pounds (roughly the same as the Infiniti G37 Convertible), the E550 isn't at all portly by today's standards. If you can get past the leap of faith it takes at the helm (we only did briefly), you'll find the E550 to be quite tossable. While you could push the E550 through the corners surprisingly quickly, you probably won't want to; given the steering, and a suspension that does such a splendid job in keeping body motions down to a minimum, there's not much to indicate when you're approaching the limit.

Airscarf makes it better

The real enjoyment comes, again, when you bring down the pace a bit and cruise, enjoying the sensations that make convertibles so special. The second time I drove the E550, the weather was crisper and cooler, and with both heated/ventilated seats and Airscarf—which gently blows warm air around your neck—turned on and floor heat turned on, we were able to enjoy top-down driving quite comfortably.

source:http://www.motorauthority.com/blog/1053003_2011-mercedes-benz-e550-cabriolet-driven

Mercedes E550 Cabriolet video

Grand Cherokee Jeep

The Jeep Grand Cherokee is a four-door, five passenger SUV with Jeep's trail-bred off-road ability. It's available in rear- and four-wheel drive, with a range of V-6 and V-8 engines. The newest Grand Cherokee is fresh-faced, but still bears a strong stylistic link to its predecessors. The main rivals to the Grand Cherokee are the Toyota Highlander, Toyota 4Runner, Nissan Pathfinder, and Honda Pilot. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is priced between $31,000 and $44,000.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee was first sold in 1993, and featured a range of engines and drivetrain options much like today's SUV. The 4.0-liter inline six-cylinder stuck around through the second generation, which ended in 2004, but the V-8 engines saw lots of turnover during the first 11 years of production. The Grand Cherokee's offroad ability is due in part to the Command-Trac and, later, Selec-Trac four-wheel drive systems. Two-wheel drive models were also offered, with seven different trim levels offered over the 1993-1998 first-generation model run, ranging from bare-bones hauler to semi-luxurious leather tourer. The second generation Grand Cherokee, which ran from 1999-2004 brought a more modern, rounded look and a new five-speed automatic transmission paired with a new automatic four-wheel drive system called Quadra-Drive and a revised range of engines. Like the previous version, the second generation Grand Cherokee was available in a wide range of trims to suit most tastes, and could be fitted with two-wheel or all-wheel drive.

The current Jeep Grand Cherokee started its model run in 2005, doing away with the previous inline six-cylinder engine in favor of a new 3.7-liter V-6, while the 5.7-liter and 6.1-liter HEMI V-8s also joined the range. A diesel engine was offered in the CRD model through 2009, but was dropped for the 2010 model year. The new HEMI engines saw the introduction of the SRT8 model with the 6.1-liter engine in 2006, and an upgraded Limited and Overland trim-level engine option in the form of the 5.7-liter HEMI.

Trim levels include the Laredo, Limited, and SRT8, each available in two-wheel drive except for the SRT8, which is four-wheel drive only. Key features found across the Grand Cherokee range include a six-speaker CD/MP3 stereo, cloth seating (some models feature standard leather-trimmed seating), power adjustable driver's seat, 17-inch alloy wheels, and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The Limited adds to the Laredo's base package with electronic stability control, standard Sirius Satellite Radio, a Boston Acoustics sound system, leather-trimmed bucket seats, heated front and rear seats, and a range of power and automatic accessories. Upgrading to four-wheel drive on either model also adds standard four-wheel traction control, Quadra-Trac full-time automatic four-wheel drive, and electronic stability control standard. The Grand Cherokee SRT8, in addition to its standard 425-horsepower 6.1-liter HEMI engine, adds most of the Limited's equipment range, plus larger 20-inch alloy wheels, high-performance run-flat tires, a beefed-up rear axle, sportier suspension, and a more aggressive appearance.

The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is set for a completely new model once again, with a thoroughly modern yet still iconically Jeep design, a new 3.6-liter Phoenix V-6 base engine that's more fuel-efficient, a revised version of the optional 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 that's up to 360 horsepower, and an optional Quadra-Drive II 4x4 system to help the newest Grand Cherokee be one of the most capable off-roaders of its line.

source:http://www.thecarconnection.com/cars/jeep_grand-cherokee

Grand Cherokee Jeep Road Testing

Lexus IS250AWD Car

When I started car shopping in September I was more budget conscience than I had been - maybe since a few years out of college. I looked at an Honda Accord Coupe, VW Jetta & CC, Audi A4, Saab 9-3, BMW 328, Volvo S40 and the Lexus 250. I was leasing the car and there seemed to be a lot of "deals" from the manufacturers. To me, if you are going to lease you should be the least amount of money down (no capitalized cost reduction) and leave with the payment you are comfortable with. The upfront fess you have to pay (title, taxes (at least in NY), registration, bank fee, etc.) Every lease I looked at had advertised very low monthly payments but when you read the fine print there was a lot of money upfront. The Lexus was advertised at $349/mo for 36 months but required a $3600 CCR. While a Lexus is the last car I would have considered (I've only driven Audi's since 1990 except my last car was a BMW 3 convertible - only because they had a much better lease deal than Audi.

The Lexus did drive much better than I expected and the one I leased had all the bells & whistles on it (NAV, Xenon, memory seats that are cooled & heated). The toys made up for the lack of handling and punch from the engine. While I certainly would have preferred the A4 or 328 - the difference in price was to great to ignore. The dealer was a pleasure to do business with and they even let me pick the car up 30 days after we agreed on the price and consummated the deal. Lexus certainly had an incredible financing deal which made the lease payment pretty reasonable considering it was a $41k car - MSRP. Every other car I looked at was easily $75-100 more/month and they even cover your first 2 services on their dime - 1k & 5k. I've had the car for about 3 months and you can cruise effortlessly all day at 80-90 and still get decent mileage - 23-25mpg.

While this could easily be my first & last Lexus, I will certainly give them another shot when my lease expires in another 33 months.

source:http://www.lexusreports.com/blog/1041775_2009-lexus-is250awd-lease-expereince

Lexus IS250AWD Car Review

Toyota Tundra sport

Finally. the Big Three have some serious competition when it comes to trucks, in the form of the 2008 Toyota Tundra.

The Tundra features a 4.0-liter, 236-horsepower V-6 standard or a 5.7-liter, 381-horsepower V-8 as an option. Either comes equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission that delivers the power to the ground in any on-road or off-road condition. Torquey and smooth, these big Toyota engines offer a combination of power and reliability unmatched by their competitors.

Like its American counterparts, the Tundra is available in a selection of cab configurations -- in regular, double, or crew cab -- and three different bed lengths to mix and match, suiting any range of uses. With the towing option installed, it is capable of towing in excess of five tons (10,800 pounds).

The interior is equipped with big, comfortable seats, a huge center console capable of holding a laptop, and controls conveniently positioned and capable of being easily operated while wearing gloves. In addition, all models are equipped with a steering column adjustable for tilt and telescope to accommodate any sized driver.

Anti-lock brakes, front and side air bags, and electronic stability control round out the safety features, and the new rear suspension design compensates for varying loads to ensure the vehicle always rides on an even keel.

Optional equipment includes features normally only found in luxury SUVs, including a JBL sound system, rear DVD entertainment system, dual-zone climate controls, and a GPS navigation system. Of course, a four-wheel drive option is also offered. And a TRD off-road package makes the 4x4 models really perform in the dirt.

Driving the Tundra is velvety smooth, and ample power is on-tap to pass on the highway or lug a heavy load up through a mountain pass. The steering is light and precise, and maneuverability is surprising when compared to other pickups in its class. The mileage is pretty much as expected for such a large and powerful vehicle, averaging about 14 mpg in the city and 18 mpg on the highway for the two-wheel-drive models and about 1 mpg less for the four-wheel-drive models. Naturally this will vary depending on configuration and options selected.

Finally, the Tundra proves that Toyota designers can come up with not only a competing full size pickup to the Big Three's, but one that offers world-class ride, handling, luxury, towing, and off-road performance.

source:http://www.toyotamonitor.com/review/1014087_review-2008-toyota-tundra

Toyota Tundra sport video

Toyota 4Runner Review

The Toyota 4Runner, first introduced all the way back in 1984, has obviously been a popular model in Toyota's lineup for quite some time. With many other SUVs clogging dealership lots and being discontinued like bad sitcoms, Toyota seems to know well enough not to fix something which isn't broken.

Maybe that's why the 2008 Toyota 4Runner looks just like the 2003 model -- its styling has gone unchanged since 2003. And it seems to have held up quite well; it still looks fresh, simple, and rugged, and changes to its appearance over the past two decades have been made mostly in baby steps. Interesting but maybe not surprising is the fact that other SUVs with devoted fans and long production runs, made by the likes of Jeep and Nissan, have followed this same formula.

The simple, uncluttered aesthetic of the Toyota 4Runner 2008 continues inside with an interior which might be a bit austere for some folks -- especially considering that a 2008 4Runner can come with a price tag well over $40,000, depending on how it's equipped. Others have complained that the third-row seating capacity is inadequate and that the third-row seat doesn't stow very well. But the Toyota 4Runner was born in a time before a third row of seating was available in pretty much any SUV smaller than a Chevy Suburban, and when both of the aforementioned vehicles were called "trucks" because the term "SUV" had yet to become a household acronym.

Still, under the somewhat plain interior lurks plenty of modern technology. Even the base SR5 model of the 2008 Toyota 4Runner comes standard with things like keyless entry, automatic climate control, and an overhead console. Higher trim levels include things like dual-zone automatic climate controls, leather upholstery, heated front seats, driver-seat memory, AM/FM radio with in-dash six-disc CD/MP3 changer, automatic day/night rearview mirror, compass, and universal garage door opener. And the options list includes a DVD entertainment system, satellite navigation system, satellite radio, and a 115-volt power outlet.

There is also plenty of impressive equipment dedicated to performance and safety. The Toyota 4Runner 2008 comes standard with anti-lock brakes, various forms of traction control and stability control, and even electronic aids for both climbing and descending steep hills. Four-wheel drive models aimed at off-roading also include stout stuff like a two-speed transfer case and locking center differential. The 2008 Toyota 4Runner also received four stars in NHTSA's frontal impact crash test and five stars in the side impact test.

The 4Runner has matured a bit, but it still retains the performance -- on-road and off -- that made it a favorite in the first place.

source:http://www.toyotamonitor.com/review/1014127_2008-toyota-4runner-review

Toyota 4Runner Review Video