Friday, October 30, 2009

MotoGP - can Meregalli Team Manager Jorge Lorenzo



Published October 28, 2009
Daniele Romagnoli's announcement to leave the team of Jorge Lorenzo, Yamaha force to look for a new Team Manager. In the last hours has gone out the name of Massimo Meregalli, this year in World Superbike champion Ben Spies. Meregalli familiar with the job of Team Manager and would be thrilled to be in the Yamaha MotoGP team. For Romagnoli return instead in the role of technical, as reported by Motocuatro.com, you could open 2 streets. The first door to Team Yamaha Superbike where it replaces Tom Houseworth Ben Spies will follow in the Tech 3 Yamaha team, while the second would lead to the Honda HRC instead of Pete Jenson, sacked by Honda for the misunderstandings I had with Andrea Dovizioso because of language .
He expected a different status Jorge Lorenzo at Sepang today, the theater of sixteenth and penultimate leg of the 2009 Grand Prix motorcycle racing. The centaur Majorcan Yamaha while centering the second half (more than half a second behind Rossi but) has encountered many difficulties with the race tires. Here are his words.
"Today was not my best day and I found many difficulties. The conditions are essentially the same as yesterday, but we do not have the same levels of grip and confidence that we had before and it is difficult to understand why. We have not taken the step that we expected and we lack pace compared to our rivals. Now all we need to study the data and see what we can do for the warm-up tomorrow. I am happy that we were able to return to the front row, this will be important, now we will do our best to be in better shape for the race.

2010 Scirocco R and the Golf R models : Reviews and Specification

2010 Scirocco R and the Golf R models : Reviews and Specification
2010 Scirocco R and the Golf R models : Reviews and Specification

2010 Scirocco R and the Golf R models : Reviews and Specification


2010 Scirocco R and the Golf R models : Reviews and Specification



The VW Scirocco R and the Golf R models are now on available for order in the U.K. market.
Is it me, or is it that every time a press release comes out on the new VW Golf & Scirocco Rs, their HP rating seems to shift. The Golf R is now @ 270hp, The time before that, it was stated to be @ around 250-260 HP.
Both models are powered by VW's 2.0 liter TSI engine, producing slightly varied power outputs in each. The Scirocco R comes with 265 hp while the Golf R gets a nominally higher 270 hp. Both have the same torque rating at 258 lb-ft or 350 Nm.
Standard gearbox for both is a 6-speed manual while the DSG transmission (a sequential 6-peed, dual-clutch gearbox) can be had for £1,300 (1,450 euros).
The two models differ on the rest of the drivetrain, though. The Scirocco R is a front-wheel drive fitted with VW's XDS electronic cross-axle traction control system to insure as optimal a management of all that power going through the front wheels as possible. The Golf R comes with VW's 4MOTION all-wheel drive system with a new pre-charged hydraulic system to better match torque to traction.265 hp for a super hot hatch .....hmmmm I am curious hom much faster the ford RS is than this I would throw in the R26R in there too...and we all wait for the new RS results on hot hatch reviews....cant wait to see a possible new 26R.
With this new variant the Golf R now becomes VW's fastest ever production vehicle by acceleration, clocking the 0 to 100 km/h sprint in 5.5 seconds with the DSG gearbox (5.7 with the manual). The Scirocco R's numbers are 5.8 (DSG) and 6.0 seconds (manual), respectively.That looks good, I was starting to think VW had forgotten how to make sports cars after the MK6 Golf GTI.
This is a beast, wonder what the price tag is.
Hoping now they will come clean with the Gold MK 6 R20
when you look at the TT-S and S3, whilst they have different engine mappings, and transmission setups, it is pretty impressive the difference AWD makes. Really surprised they didn't go for awd with this!
The models are made distinct by a front bumper with LED lights, triple air intakes, roof mounted spoiler, a rear diffuser and dual exhaust pipes. 18-inch wheels are standard with 19-inch as optional.
Pricing starts at £26,945 (30,040 euros) for the Scirocco R and £28,930 (32,250 euros) for the Golf R.
omg VW IS KICKING ASS!!! Love it love it love it!
Of course none of these will hit North America ... seriously i almost want to move to europe...

Source: VW

The Toyota 2010 Matrix : Great Car, fun to drive!

The Toyota 2010 Matrix : Great Car, fun to drive!
The Toyota 2010 Matrix : Great Car, fun to drive!The Toyota 2010 Matrix : Great Car, fun to drive!

The Toyota 2010 Matrix : Great Car, fun to drive!


The 2010 Matrix is a 4-door, 5-passenger wagon, available in 7 trims, ranging from the Base 5-Spd MT to the XRS 4-Spd AT. A little slow on the get up and go but that is a trade off to get better gas mileage. To me the price was a little high for a small car. I feel that you cant go wrong if you want a small car and good gas mileage plus a great reliable car. Looks are not bad either. I have the AWD and I will never go back to a two wheel drive car againUpon introduction, the Base 5-Spd MT is equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 132-horsepower engine that achieves 26-mpg in the city and 32-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The XRS 4-Spd AT is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 158-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.
For the price, I think it's the best car on the market. By that I mean you need to compare ACTUAL ownership prices. I leased the Matrix for less than I would've paid for most other cars that were up to $4,000 cheaper. That's because the residual value after 3 years is over 57%. Most cars under $20k have residuals between 40% ~ 50%. My "wishlist" would include: illumnated window switches, rigid removeable trunk cover (the one supplied is a joke), average/instant mpg displayed in trip computer, cargo floor mat that covers the back of the rear seats (so the floor is fully covered when the back seats are folded flat).



The car has some bad blind spots. One of the blind spots is in the front where the window frame/roof supports are extra thick so that when you're looking across the car when trying to pull out you have about 10-15% of your field of vision removed. It's enough for a car to get in there if you're not paying close attention. I had someone cross the street at a perfect angle to where I could not see her and nearly hit her until the car turned just enough to see her.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

The 2010 Suzuki SX4 Crossover : Reviews and Specification

The 2010 SX4 Crossover : Reviews and Specification
The 2010 SX4 Crossover is a 4-door, 5-passenger wagon, available in 5 trims, ranging from the Base FWD to the Touring AWD. It's great on gas, has a smooth engine which has been around since the sidekick saying alot about its reliability. (For those of you who are wondering, it employs timing chain which means you never have to replace it as oppose to a belt which must be replaced every 75K miles.) Its aggressive italian looks (designed by Italdesign) makes it an attention getter. Its fun to drive and has just enough room for what I need. One of my favorite things about this car is the head room, ease of entry, amenities that comes available for the price of the car, and an electronic transfer case (iAWD system) that allows a driver to manually eliminate the AWD system and switch it on when needed. My few complaints about this car is the fact that it has a rigid axle rear-suspension as oppose to independent suspension and therefore gives the SX4 a bumpier ride. The paint quality is a bit poor, I have swirl marks after only a year of owning it, and the vehicle feels heavy for its class. I also wish a sunroof was available. Other than that, its a great car and I recommend it highly. If anyone is looking to get one, shoot for the Touring package. It's a great valueUpon introduction, the Base FWD is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 143-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. The Touring AWD is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 143-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims, and a 4-speed automatic transmission is optional.
Overall, I love the car! I was able to move almost all of my stuff in it and save the cost of a moving truck and the AWD is FUN in the winter!!

2010 Subaru Coupe 216A Further Details : Review and Specification

2010 Subaru Coupe 216A Further Details : Review and Specification
2010 Subaru Coupe 216A Further Details : Review and Specification

This is what every automotive enthusiast has been waiting for since, well, forever! Now this is a good looking sport car even though it does resemble a genesis coupe, front and rear. but the end result probably will look nothing like the rendering as it's all specalition. . number of details that should please Subaru fans have now surfaced. Firstly, the FT-86 takes on the internal codes 086A, 087A and 088A for the Japanese, US and European markets respectively. The Subaru on the other hand is codenamed the 216A according to BestCar magazine.I gotta say both versions of the car look spectacular. Im more of a Toyota fan but this version is just a bit nicer looking.
Another tidbit is the engine which was previously speculated to be a 2.0-litre turbo boxer making about 118kW (160hp). Indeed it is the revised 2.0-litre turbo from either the Impreza 2.0 GT or the WRX STI. However, power is rumoured to be around 184kW (250hp) with a possible STI version making 227kW (308hp).
Subaru will further distance the 216A from the FT-86 through signature styling elements (as presented in these artist renderings), longer and wider dimensions and an extra 100kg in weight. However, the closeness in actual wheelbase and overall length with the current hatch mean the two could share even more parts.
Pricing has been speculated at around ¥3 million (€22,267/ US$32,880) when launched in Japan in 2011.Now build it Subaru! But I got a feeling that the real thing will appear uglier than the concept or the sketches. Maybe they should steal one of Mazdas designers for the TOYABARU project.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The 2010 Lincoln MKS Reviews and Specification

The 2010 Lincoln MKS Reviews and Specification
The 2010 Lincoln MKS Reviews and Specification

The 2010 Lincoln MKS Reviews and Specification


The 2010 MKS is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, available in 3 trims, ranging from the 3.7L FWD to the 3.5L with EcoBoost AWD. The ride is incredibly smooth and quiet, and it handles great around turns. The SYNC system is great and it works well with my iphone. I would highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a luxury sedan, i assure you you'll be glad you did Upon introduction, the 3.7L FWD is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 273-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. The 3.5L with EcoBoost AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 355-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.
This large, luxury sedan with new ecoboost delivers! The twin turbo provides responsive, quiet, power without delay at all speeds. Combination of seat comfort, extremely quiet cabin, suspension tuning, and ready power make this a highway drivers dream come true in an American car. Lincoln delivers a Lexus, versus BMW/STS/MB, competing ride. Also, the THX, 5.1, surround sound system is exceptional. I can't wait to get back into this car every day. Lincoln got this Lexus driver back, happily

Saturday, October 24, 2009

The 2010 Mazda5 Reviews and Specification

The 2010 Mazda5 Reviews and Specification
The 2010 Mazda5 Reviews and Specification
The 2010 Mazda5 Reviews and Specification
The Mazda5 2010 is family-friendly and economical without sacrificing style. We needed at least 6 seats with easy conversion to cargo space; safety was also important, and the Mazda5 delivers. Mileage averages around 28mpg, but has been as high as 32mpg. With a full vehicle and cargo carrier on top our mileage was 24mpg. The sliding side doors provide easy access to the second and third row seats. The windows in the side doors roll down like standard windows, which is nice. Accelerates well; automatic transmission has manual shift option which helps in situations where you need to either wind out the gears longer or down-shift (e.g. on steep inclines).Mazda5 is a new type of vehicle from Mazda that was added to the Mazda lineup for the 2006 model year. Super flexible, carries large loads with seats folded down, great traveling car for up to four with good cargo space, can carry six for short distances without much luggage (or use roof rack). Easy to drive, looks good, decent gas mileage (about 27 mpg on highway). 25,000 miles without any problems. Fold flat seats and no lip at back tailgate make loading and unloading large and heavy items easy. Excellent AC/Heat, nice radio/CD player with aux input.
Mazda5 continues with minimal changes after updates for 2008 that included revised exterior styling, a 5-speed automatic transmission, rear air vents and improved fuel economy for 2008. Liquid Silver is a new exterior color for 2009 and the Sand interior is now available with Stormy Blue or Brilliant Black exterior.For 2008 the Mazda5 received exterior styling updates, a 5-speed automatic transmission, rear air vents, and improved fuel economy. With a blend of style and functionality that combines the dimensions and ease of use of a compact, with available seating for six, the Mazda5 offers the versatility of multiple passenger and cargo configurations. The Mazda5 shares underbody architecture, suspension design and components with the Mazda3 in a unique wedge-shaped body that features two sliding doors and a low floor. Inside, the Mazda5 features three rows of theater-style seating with slide and recline adjustments for the second row. The second- and third-row seats fold to create a nearly flat cargo floor.The engine has power, goes up long inclines smoothly without hunting between gears like other small cars. 5 speed automatic is smooth. Ride quality is good. My 2006 Honda Odyssey and this car feel very similar. I forget and think I am driving my Honda at times. Sliding doors on both sides allow this car to park in narrow spaces. My kids like this Mazda5 better than the Honda because the seats are more comfortable. The 2nd row seats recline. I average 26-30 miles a gallon and the car has a lot of power. My wife drives an X5 and did not like driving my Scion xB because it was not peppy. Not so with the Mazda. She loves it, says it can go!! Zoom...zoom!!

Friday, October 23, 2009

The 2010 Forester Reviews and Specification

The 2010 Forester Reviews and Specification
The 2010 Forester Reviews and Specification


The 2010 Forester is a 4-door, 5-passenger sport-utility, available in 5 trims, ranging from the 2.5X to the Excellent fit and trim, inside and out. Thanks to the engineers' attention to safety, I feel very good driving my Subaru. Quality and safety issues (both very good) aside, the styling has great imagination. So I feel brilliant, and funky, tooling about in my new Forester.
2.5XT Limited. The 2010 Forester Reviews and Specification
Upon introduction, the 2.5X is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, H4, 170-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2.5XT Limited is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, H4, 224-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.
Overall.. This is an excellent choice. The Honda CRV and Toyota RV4 are close competotors but purchasers should understand the differences in the all wheel dirve systems of each vehicle. The sunroof is huge and nearly makes the Forester feel like a convertible.
I need to drive more miles to get good MPG data but appears to be 23 MPG. Adequate power. The heated section of the windshield to melt ice off the wipers will be greatly appreciated in the Indiana winters. I am very pleased with the purchase. Tom Wood Subaru of Indianapolis is a great dealership

Monday, October 19, 2009

The 2010 Tucson Reviews and Specifications

The 2010 Tucson  Reviews and Specifications


The 2010 Tucson  Reviews and Specifications

The 2010 Tucson is a 4-door, 5-passenger sport-utility, available in 6 trims, ranging from the GLS 2.0 2WD to the Limited 2.7 4WD.This car is all that and more. I have never felt a connection to a car like this, everyday I am more and more proud of this car! It’s simple, yet elegant, youthful, yet mature. Its has the quietness of a sedan, yet the free spirit ONLY a convertible can give you!As a loyal Honda owner for over 15 years, there is no question I made the right move to get this car! The top is down DAILY, roll up the windows and put up the wind guards and this car is like having a huge sunroof... Very little wind noise, I have conversations like normal even with the top down and the windows up.Do yourself a favor, test drive this car, I guarantee if you buy it, you will kick yourself for compromising on something else Upon introduction, the GLS 2.0 2WD is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 140-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The Limited 2.7 4WD is equipped with a standard 2.7-liter, V6, 173-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.


The 2010 Tucson  Reviews and Specifications

Theres a lot of Hyundai/KIA Traditionalists that have a problem with Hyundais new North American design. However, the surveys show the problem people have with Hyundais is design. They know the cars last and wont break, but they think the design makes them look like they are cheap enough to break. I go to a lot of non-Hyundai sites, and I publish articles for online Auto Journals. I advocate everyday for the Hyundai buyer, but a lot of people hated our past designs. The Current gen Accent for example: People know its a great car architecurally, but they think is crap just becuase of the design of the interior and exterior. I own one, but I consider it as a 5 year car. Meaning, I will only own it for 5 years becuase thats how long I will get tired of it befor ei want a more attractive new one, and yes I plan to get the 2011.
The Average car buyer raves at how the Current Gen Elantra feels of quality, but they think the car is only ok, becuase of the simplistic, or as they say “Old people looking” design. People believe that the Tuscon is a quite the competent little crossover, but there we go again with the styling.
Hyundai is starting to listen to people. Even if the Hyundai Traditionalists have a problem with the radical much needed new design directions the company is going

Volkswagen E-Up! 2010 Reviews

Volkswagen E-Up! 2010 Reviews
Volkswagen E-Up! 2010 Reviews

Volkswagen E-Up!
VW Up! concept gets charged for the future.Got a great deal thru the internet at a local dealer in Van Nuys. They had the best price and were willing to give all transaction details to me before I would agree to visit the dealer. I was very impressed with Dustin. He gave a great delivery and has followed thru on all promises. The car is the BEST i have had yet. I had a Beetle Convertible on lease and wanted something different. This is exactly what I wanted. I looked at the BMW, I still think the VW is a much better value and has the maintenance included like the BMW The 2010 Volkswagen E-Up! will go from concept to production in 4 years, according to the German automaker. We've previously seen the Up! concept, but not as a battery electric. This family of city cars, developed as the spiritual successor to the original Beetle, is slated to debut in 2011 with conventional gas or diesel power.
While there is little resemblance to the Beetle, the original Up! concept shares the same mechanical layout as that icon by using an engine mounted in the back driving the rear axle. However, the E-Up! version varies from that formula by placing the electric motor under the hood to drive the front wheels. It is very compact at just about 7 feet in length, but has seating for 4 in what VW calls a 3+1 configuration where the driver is positioned slightly forward. The E-Up! concept also shows an evolution in the exterior design with smoother body work and a roof entirely covered in solar panels that provide continuous electric energy to run the car's electrical system and if need be cool the interior.
Propulsion comes from a 60kW motor that can push this little car to 60 mph in about 11 seconds, or just a bit slower than a Toyota Prius. But thanks to plenty of low-end torque from the electric motor and the car's relatively light curb weight of under 2,500 lbs., the E-Up! is expected to feel quite peppy off the line when driving around town. The concepts battery pack is an 18kWh lithium-ion unit that promises about 80 miles of emissions free driving, which should be enough distance for most commuters. If the car is plugged in at home to a 230v outlet, it requires only 5 hours to take a full charge.
Inside the E-Up! stresses frugality with manual windows and a lack of power features; the goal being to keep costs down and to optimize the efficiency without sacrificing practicality. An intelligent navigation system identifies charging stations and monitors both traffic and the car's electrical load. When necessary, the system alerts the driver to the need for a charge and reserves a slot at the charging station before arrival. An 80 percent rapid battery charge is said to be possible in about an hour.
When I was looking for a new car, I wanted something that was fun, got good gas mileage and something I would feel proud to own. I looked at the Volvo convertible, the Pontiac and even the BMW… This car won hands down, with the moon roof and a convertable in one, this has got to be the perfect blend of practicality and fun in one!This car is all that and more. I have never felt a connection to a car like this, everyday I am more and more proud of this car! It’s simple, yet elegant, youthful, yet mature. Its has the quietness of a sedan, yet the free spirit ONLY a convertible can give you!

Lexus LF-Ch Concept 2010 : Lexus hatches a hybrid concept.

Lexus LF-Ch Concept 2010 : Lexus hatches a hybrid concept.
Lexus LF-Ch Concept 2010 : Lexus hatches a hybrid concept.

Lexus LF-Ch Concept 2010 : Lexus hatches a hybrid concept.


Lexus LF-Ch Concept 2010 : Lexus hatches a hybrid concept.



Hot looking car, worth the extra over Camry, BUT: Don't buy one if you are over 6-2, you'll pull neck muscles every time you get in. Other quibbles: Cup holders lack padding, anything put in rattles. Test drive it on a road with some bumps - a lot of LF-Ch's 's have center console rattles. Huge blind spot when reversing, get the back up camera (comes w/ Nav). For this class, the digital clock looks cheap. Lacks door chrome. Front seat 2-inches too short. Seat cooling barely detectable. The LF-Ch's 5-door shape resembles the Lincoln concept C's we saw at the Detroit auto show earlier this year.
Yellow paint is offset by blue interior lighting, while an interior lined with leather, aluminum and wood gives the impression of expensive and artistic furniture. The ambient lighting helps with creating a nightclub like experience, but it's not as good as Audi's. Blacked out B-pillars and hidden rear door handles provide the LF-Ch with a coupelike look, but it's really a sporty hatch with a hybrid powertrain. Because not much is known about the hybrid system, it's not a far reach to think that the Lexus 250h powertrain could fit




This car is all I wanted. value for money. good power, good mileage. Smooth ride. Good features like low tyre pressure indicator to park assist, auto dim rear view mirror, rain sensing wipers HID adaptive lighting. airline leather seats, rear view camera/GPS, button start, bluetooth, nice room. Lot of air bags. you name it... Its been 4 months and going good. My next one will be a lexus for sure. no kidding




Source: autos.yahoo.com

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Seat Leon Cupra R in Detail 2010

Seat Leon Cupra R in Detail 2010
Seat Leon Cupra R in Detail 2010 SEAT designs make me think if VW buys Suzuki, they would be perfect to re-badge as Suzuki for the US market... Locally producing more VW components for Suzuki would make it viable to build more VW's in US/Mexico as well. I like the power it has, but I think the body is too subtle, pretty much the same as the Cupra with a few more badges. They should make the Linea R bodykit standard on it, then it will look killer! but that front end from some angles it looks week its it because the grille look to small or its not to agressive i think i dont but overall i love the cupra R i think it still need the twin tail pipes in the back like the Golf and Scriocco R .Leon Cupra R is SEAT’s most powerful road car yet. Falling in line with other R hatches from the Volkswagen Group, the 2.0 TSI direct injection engine makes a compelling 195kW (265hp) and maximum torque of 350Nm between 2,500rpm and 5,000rpm. Its 0 – 100km/h time is 6.2 seconds while top speed is limited to 250km/h. Moving the front wheels is a modified 6-speed manual gearbox with faster changes. Seat Leon Cupra R in Detail 2010
Performance is of course important for any R car but so is fuel efficiency. An average of 8.1 litres per 100km is stated and average C02 emissions are 190g/km.
Technical systems include the same XDS system found in the Scirocco R and the GTI. XDS minimises understeer thus improving handling. Others are ABS with EBA emergency braking, ESP stability control and TCS traction control. Safety is further enhanced by various airbags, cornering foglights and rear parking sensors.

Friday, October 16, 2009

Alfa Romeo GT Q2 2010

Alfa Romeo GT Q2 2010
The clever Q2 set-up maximises the GT’s front-wheel-drive traction, but the new diff isn’t available on the model in the range that could do with it most – the powerful 240bhp 3.2-litre V6. However, this diesel variant offers a better blend of performance and economy, while the limited-slip diff transforms the coupĂ© into one of the best-handling cars in the class.The rest of the charismatic GT’s drive­train remains unchanged, which means you get a six-speed manual gearbox and impressive performance matched with decent economy. Crucially, the spacious four-seater cabin and 320-litre boot are also unaltered, although the pretty styling has been enhanced.
As well as the clever differential, buyers also get a range of cosmetic tweaks to set the Q2 apart from the standard car. Most obvious are the five-spoke 18-inch alloy wheels, but twin chrome exhausts and a satin finish on the grille and door mirrors also distinguish the newcomer. A small Q2 badge on the tailgate and lower stance – thanks to tweaked suspension – provide more discreet clues.
The £1,000 premium the Q2 is likely to command above the standard car is also easier to bear when you consider the interior upgrades. As well as black leather upholstery with red stitching, buyers also get stylish metal sill protectors, classy anthracite trim on the dash and steering wheel controls for the uprated stereo.
Ultimately, the new Q2 differential makes a greater impact in the smaller, more nimble 147 hatch, but it’s still a welcome addition that gives a boost to the stylish GT range

2010 Ducati Hypermotard 796




Very nice bike. I was kinda hoping they would have come out with a hypermotard around the 696 engine to make the price even lower. PS. Yellow boots did nothing for the pics. You are gonna look back on these one day and think, 'what was I thinkin?'.Where is the "meat" of this "ride" article? What are the power levels? What is the weight? Mpg? Sound? C'mon...this article lacks most of what riders are looking for (other than described ergonomics). This bike looks much more "Street Triple" than it does "motard" (More motard would help it because without it, it competes directly with the Street Triple...which will kill this thing). What 4-valve heads on a Ducati air-cooled engine? I don't think so. Your comments on the trans are interesting. I've owned four Ducatis over the past twenty years and each had a great transmission feel, including the ability to find neutral.The engine is hung within a steel frame of identical measurement as the 1100. The 796 has mirrors that can be folded in based on rider preference. The Hypermotard 796 comes in three colorways: Dark; White; Red. The 796 gets an instrument display similar to the Streetfighter only it features orange backlighting.TBesides the suspension, tires and instrument display it can be difficult to spot the differences between the Hypermotard 796 and the 1100. Although we appreciated the 796’s overall suspension balance front-to-rear it could be significantly improved with even more initial damping front and rear. Despite the suspension being softly sprung, the 796 offers fantastic stability at speed. the 796’s frame however benefits from a new forming process which reduces weight without compromising rigidity. Both the top and bottom fork clamps are also new. The clamps hold a new non-adjustable 43mm Marzocchi inverted fork. Above is a tapered aluminum handlebar. Rear suspension consists of a Sachs hydraulic shock absorber that moves through a linkage and connects to the aluminum single-sided swingarm. As opposed to the fork, the shock offers adjustment for spring preload and rebound damping. Lastly, the seat itself was shortened by 0.8 inches and now measures 32.5-inches from the ground.

The 796 rolls on similar-spec aluminum wheels as the 1100, measuring 3.5 x 17-inches up front and 5.5 x 17-inches at the rear. The rims are shod with Bridgestone BT-016 multi-compound tires in sizes 120/70 front and 180/55 rear. Brakes consist of twin 305mm rotors up front, which are controlled by radial-mount 4-piston Brembo calipers. The rear brake disc measures 245mm in diameter and is independently controlled by a twin-piston caliper. Stainless-steel brake lines front and rear complement the set-up.

Engine: 803cc air-cooled L-Twin, 4-valve
Bore x Stroke: 88 x 66mm
Compression Ratio: 11.1:1
Fuel Delivery: Electronic fuel-injection
Clutch: APTC wet multi-plate, hydraulic actuation
Transmission: 6-speed, chain final drive
Frame: Steel-trellis
Front Suspension: Marzocchi 43mm inverted fork, non-adjustable; 6.5 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Sachs hydraulic shock absorber, spring preload and rebound damping adjustment; 5.6 in. travel
Front Brakes: Dual 305mm discs with radial-mount Brembo 4-piston calipers
Rear Brake: 245mm disc with Brembo twin-piston caliper
Front Tire: Bridgestone BT-016 120/70-17
Rear Tire: Bridgestone BT-016 180/55-17
Wheelbase: 57.3 in.
Length: 83.5 in.
Rake: 24 deg. Trail: 3.9 in.
Seat Height: 32.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 3.3 gal.
MSRP: $9995
Colors: Dark; White; Red
Warranty: Two years, unlimited mileage

Mansory Panamera first illustrations 2010

Mansory Panamera first illustrations 2010
Mansory Panamera first illustrations 2010




I saw so much potential for this car, day one! I'm glad to see that body kits are really bringing this car out. This car will look good for many years without being refreshed. It's got a classic look to it. somewhat nice, the body kit does make the panamera look a little more edgey, but like people have said above, its over done and a new direction in design is needed for mansory. New in its garage is this Porsche Panamera-based project which follows in the tracks of Mansory's Chopster Cayenne as the only Porsches to receive the brand's tuning signature. i love it it looks bad ass its looks like mad turtle with that color and it hips but love the agressiveness of it!! kepp it up Mansory Mansory Panamera first illustrations 2010
The exterior has been treated with new aerodynamic components made from PU-RIM and Prepreg-Autoclav-Carbon. The front and rear wheels are 9,5x21 and 11,5x21 size and go well with the lowered suspension (35mm closer to the tar). Mansory also installed a new sport exhaust system said to increase the Panamera's overall appeal.
Individual customers can have their interiors custom fitted with precious wood grains, fine varnish or carbon fibre. Leather is applied throughout while the pedals are made of brushed aluminium. A sports steering wheel keeps car and driver firmly united.

Monday, October 12, 2009

2010 Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept Headed for Frankfurt

2010 Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept Headed for Frankfurt
2010 Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept Headed for Frankfurt

2010 Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid Concept Headed for Frankfurt
Toyota finally builds a hybrid for which, judged solely by its style, I wouldn't have to perform self-eunuchization in order to drive it.
Now if only divine intervention would see to it that every Prius-containing ship which set sail for America would take a nosedive into the Marianas Trench. Given the number of non-hybrid cars that have lower emissions than 100g/km, this better beat that figure otherwise it'll be dead on arrival in Europe. And whats the point of a hybrid that can run in petrol only mode? Sure its unique, uniquely useless. Power comes from a 97 bhp 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and a small electric motor which is connected to a Nickel-metal hydride battery (basically, it's a fancy Prius). Unlike most hybrids, the concept can be driven by the petrol engine alone, the electric motor alone, or a combination of the two. Thanks to this unique setup, the car can travel on electric power alone for up to 1.25 miles (2km) at speeds up to 31 mph.
While details are scarce, the hybrid is expected to accelerate from 0-62 mph in about 10 seconds. Fuel economy is said to be "class-leading" in the combined cycle, and CO2 emissions are expected to be below 100 g/km. Ultimately, it is the five-door concept's interior experience that will be a big selling point. The roomy interior is made to feel all the more spacious with its full-glass roof. Well, not full-glass. There are solar panels built in to provide power for the ventilation system.
Those in the cabin will be surrounded by blue Gaucholino leather, with light blue stitching. The relaxing blue hue is also used to light up the instrument cluster. Ambient lighting is also used at various points. The blue is meant to reflect Toyota's hybrid division, which is also seen in the vehicle's badging. Padded carpeting is also used to make the vehicle more comfortable.
Exterior changes have also been made to this Auris, seen in the new front end, and new front and rear bumpers. This is meant to give the car a better look, while helping to reduce the drag coefficient to 0.28. Front and rear lighting is also done with LEDs.
Toyota plans to put the Toyota Auris HSD Full Hybrid on the market sometime in the second half of 2010. The car will be built in the UK at the company's Burnaston factory, just outside of Derby. By 2020, Toyota hopes to have a hybrid version of each of their models on the market.Source: Toyota
The production Auris HSD hybrid will be built at Toyota's Burnaston, UK factory in mid-2010.Source: Toyota