Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts

Thursday, September 29, 2011

Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am 2011 - 2012 Reviews

Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am 2011 - 2012 Reviews. Ferrari 458 Italian Grand Am is built to meet the regulations of the United States and is therefore different from the machine, especially in the sense that develops 500 horsepower and aerodynamics are less efficient than the GT version. It 'also features 48 mm throttle and maximum speed are 8000 significant changes were made to the braking system, because the machine does not have ABS and traction control. Other differences include crash bars GT3, which gives greater protection to increase the security side of a series of clashes are frequent. The car has Continental tires, the only supplier of series, with a compound very hard, again with a set of rules.

Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am

With its introduction by the family of the track in Fiorano, Ferrari 458 Italy Grand Am will be back in procedures 26 and July 27, 2011 Pro for a confidential test session at Daytona International Speedway in Florida. Veer will take turns experienced duo Jaime Melo and Toni Vilander that can boast a wide range of victories to his name on Ferrari. Will resume development for the Grand Italia Ferrari 458'ma training participation in the U.S. Championship 2012.
Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am 

Ferrari 458 Italia Grand Am 

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Reviews, Competitive Choice for a Midsize Crossover

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee has been added to the still-substantial improvements and off-road ability make the completely redesigned 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee competitive choice for intermediate crossover. Jeep Grand Cherokee also brings a powerful V6 or V8 power, high tow rating, upscale interior, capable off-road prowess. However, limited cargo space, exacting an optional navigation system.


2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee gets all-new 290-horsepower 3.6 liter V6 is much more powerful and fuel-efficient than last year's V6 is pathetic. A 360-hp V8 is still offered as an option. To ensure the vehicle remains a firm grasp on the off-road credentials, Jeep has made an available air suspension (ride height can increase JGC) and the drive-mode selector to tailor the powertrain and suspension for certain types of terrain. Also new is a fully independent rear suspension (a first for the vehicle) that improve ride quality.


Overall, the Jeep has done well here. As an option for crossover or SUV, 2011 Grand Cherokee is quite competitive. The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee is a five-passenger SUV that comes in trim Laredo, Limited and Overland. Each is available in 4x2 and 4x4 guises. Standard equipment includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, foglamps, cruise control, keyless ignition, dual-zone air conditioning, electric driver's seat, tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel and six speaker audio system with satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and a CD player. Security and Convenience Group adds remote ignition, Bluetooth, a cargo cover, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a USB interface / iPod. A back-up camera, power passenger seat, leather upholstery and a stereo with nine speakers HD radio, a subwoofer and a touch screen interface is also available.


This is even more impressive than it looks, drive and feel better than some of the toughest competitors ever sailed through difficult times without all the circus Congress. Prices from around $ 31,000 to over $ 40,000, Grand Cherokee take back some of the best in class wins from a group of invited crossover.


Tuesday, September 13, 2011

2011 Hyundai Elantra Reviews

2011 Hyundai Elantra Reviews - If you are looking to buy a new car for 2011 Hyundai Elantra is a big one. The Elantra has a 1.8 liter engine with four cylinders now. This model is equipped with an automatic (A6GF1) or six (M6CF3-1) Shiftronic manual transaxle. For 2011 Hyundai Elantra has a modern look to it and is very comfortable to drive and ride in. It is also installed with a sound system with six speakers. This little car is great on gas mileage as well. The Elantra gets 29 miles per gallon in the city and forty on the highway. Limited models of the 2011 Elantra has a Bluetooth and heated seats.


2011 Hyundai Elantra to make adequate and safe, but not feel athletic. The 2011 Hyundai Elantra our attention in a positive way and not letting go, a feat in a class of small cars also boring style. A smooth, quiet ride, more comfortable for the passenger, the cabin is Elantra a step up from most accommodation in small cars. The Hyundai Elantra 2011 promises to be a good choice for security conscious buy a small car.

With a list of standard features long and some excellent points and connectivity options on top of the online offer for 2011 Hyundai Elantra more for less. All fittings of the 2011 Hyundai Elantra, not just an individual, stingy on the theme package comes with a rating of 40 mpg highway.


Cruise control is also a great addition to this large sedan. If you are interested in finding a car that is great on gas mileage and its wonderful and Elantra in 2011 could be the car for you. For an exceptional sound system is very important for many people when buying a car and this baby is safe as that. For 2011 Elantra comes in many colors and can have custom additions, depending on where you buy the car. This is a very safe family car and ideal for travel and travel.

The list of safety features include traction 2011 Hyundai Elantra standard stability control, disc brakes with ABS, active head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags covering both rows. Edmunds In brake tests, limited Elantra 125 feet to stop from 60 mph - a good distance for the segment.

When the winning design, new engine and fuel economy of a long list of standard safety equipment and high-level options, 2011 Hyundai Elantra is ready to provide any compact sedan on the road to run for its money.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Reviews, Best car to buy for 2011

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid - Hybrid technology finally caught up with Hyundai standards. Hyundai has made a lot of new awareness among buyers and sales, with its completely redesigned 2011 Sonata mid-size sedan. This is the Best car to buy for 2011, and leading in many ways. These include fuel economy. With notes of up to 35 mpg highway for the standard sonata is one of the best teams out there. But those who are truly green can do even better: the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid. And the fuel consumption is even better in the Sonata hybrid-an EPA-rated 35 mpg city, 40 highway.


2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Reviews

Performance
The Sonata Hybrid features a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, an electric motor and the most advanced lithium polymer battery available. This system cranks out 206 net horsepower, and delivers exceptional 35 City and 40 Hwy MPG2. Hybrid efficiency and innovative performance finally meet in the 2011 Sonata Hybrid.


Exterior
The Sonata Hybrid looks different from its traditional counterpart, but it hasn’t traded environmentalism for style. The raked roofline, modern fluid design and even specially designed 17-inch alloy wheels result in a vehicle that delivers best-in-class aerodynamics.


Interior
The compact next-generation lithium polymer battery allows for the most interior space compared to other mid-sized hybrid sedans.


Safety
Sonata Hybrid has unsurpassed safety technologies including six airbags, a reinforced unibody design, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS) and even advanced braking systems. Also, the 2011 Sonata model line has been named a “Top Safety Pick” by the IIHS.


Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is not only sold its first hybrid, the United States, also includes a completely new lithium-polymer battery technology, which is developed in collaboration with LG Chem. Hyundai has chosen the traditional six-speed automatic for more than a complicated setup that other planets, some of the other car manufacturers have offered their hybrids. There are two systems, electric motor, which decouples the gasoline engine when running on battery power at high speeds, in some situations, cruise or inertia, or like other hybrids, the electric motor assists the engine, or it can help recharge the battery .

Overall, the system is not as transparent as the unit of the Ford and Toyota, is a bit 'lumpier transitions, which are some of the findings, but the Sonata hybrid-electric mode can be driven at higher speeds than other low-cost hybrid, we have seen more than 70 mph without the gas engine is running, some stage.

Sonata hybrid models do not seem so different. Plates is the same, and there is the same spacious interior, but the front and back have changed slightly, and Hybrid networks some significant aerodynamic improvements.

2011 Hyundai Sonata Reviews, Completely Redesigned

2011 Hyundai Sonata with a refreshing new look and a new activity. For 2011, the Hyundai Sonata is completely redesigned. Aim to remove some of the Nissan Altima and Ford Fusion buyers (and buyers are considering the Camry, Accord and Malibu), and bring them to Hyundai times. So how do Hopey-Changey work outside the big four-door Hyundai? Okay, thanks. Sales are the best ever, and is primarily a matter of looking to the right, in correspondence with the right features and proper fuel economy numbers on the label. Sonata formality left fab new lines, inside and out. It is jumping the road and V-6 instead of riding the car with a four-cylinder engine that rates of up to 35 miles per gallon, slightly less if it is equipped with a turbocharger, much more if associated with Hyundai's new hybrid technology. In any version that meets our performance expectations, the two hybrids and emotion 2.0T us beyond the norms for the reasons of their own.


2011 Hyundai Sonata Reviews

Styling : Hyundai joins Ford and Nissan to create a convincing look for its traditional sedan.

Safety : Top rated Sonata IIHS, NHTSA results are coming





Performance : Ride quality and fuel economy are strong, but towards the Sonata could be smoother. Choice of engine for the new Sonata include a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder or 2.0-liter variant of the turbocharger. The base engine is actually most buyers will not be necessary because it makes a robust 198 horsepower (200 in the finish) and returns an economical 26 mpg combined when it comes to a six-speed automatic transmission. In addition to offering performance in fuel consumption and high living again, this engine has a sophisticated look. Ramps up performance turbo with 274 horsepower and becomes surprisingly almost identical fuel economy combined.


Quality : Large interior space meets a beautiful cloth seats, detectable plastic kept out of the world.

Features : Entertainment options rival those of the merger, but most expensive bundle is.


2011 Hyundai Sonata MSRP: $19,395 - $27,245
Inside, there is more usable space than ever, and it is finished in a pleasant way, although we would like to see the seats softer and a little less shiny black plastic. The controller can use a little refinement of feeling, too. It works well in the corners of scanning, but wanders a touch on some road surfaces. While they're at it, Hyundai will have to tackle the noise in the cabin. On paved roads to generate low Sonata tire rolling resistance lot of noise, overwhelming even the good mid-level speakers.

Is likely to ignore these minor flaws, given the price of the Sonata extremely intelligent. Everything is space, the frugality and good can be had for less than $ 20,000 and comes with USB, Bluetooth and satellite radio. The turbo version adds more than 80 horses, but only increases the price of about $ 25,000 base. Hybrids around 39 to 40 mpg highway, with a base price of about $ 26,000, not much more than the much smaller Honda Civic Hybrid.


2011 Toyota Camry Reviews, Best Seller Among Mid-Size Sedans

2011 Toyota Camry is the champion of luxury-ride on the highway and with the optional V6 engine is incredible. No wonder that the Camry remains one of the top family sedans on the market. Roomy cabin, the V6 is very smooth and fuel-efficient, quiet and comfortable ride, excellent value crash tests. The Camry has highlighted a lot in this area, and the result is a midsize sedan from Toyota is one of the best-selling car for most of the last twenty years.

Of course, there are more bland personality Camry. Camry engine choice includes a respectable powerful 2.5-liter in-line-4, and ultra-soft 268-hp V6, which is without doubt the best family sedan segment. Other strengths of the Camry is a laudable level of comfort, a lot of comfort and luxury features, and excellent safety results. If you use it daily to work or family around the country, the Camry is likely to be satisfied.
The mid-size sedan segment is probably the most competitive in the automotive market, and as such the 2011 Camry has a series of worthy opponents to fight for supremacy sales chart. There are of course his old rival, the Honda Accord, but now you can also consider the Chevrolet Malibu, Ford Fusion, Hyundai Sonata, Mazda 6, Nissan Altima and Suzuki Kizashi. Although the 2011 Toyota Camry does not handle nearly as well as sportier class participants - such as 6 and Altima - we suspect most buyers will not care too much.

Unfortunately, the Camry is long sterling reputation for quality is clouded by the latest generation of problem points that attack the gas pedals and mats potentially intrusive. Equity, we expect 2011 to be versions of these deficiencies. And although the Camry is still a great need for himself, as mentioned above, there are many interesting options. Camry is still a safe choice, but is no longer enough for a child's play. We recommend a test ride as many models as possible to see what best suits you.

2011 Toyota Camry : Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Toyota Camry is a midsize four-door sedan offered in four trim levels -- base, LE, SE and XLE. The base Camry comes only with a four-cylinder engine, while the other trims offer a choice between the four-cylinder and a V6.
The base Camry features 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, auto up/down windows for all four doors, a six-speaker CD audio system with an auxiliary input jack, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, full power accessories and a 60/40-split-folding rear seat. The Camry LE adds keyless entry and an eight-way power driver seat.

The SE includes a sport-tuned suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels and special interior and exterior styling details. The luxurious XLE reverts to the LE's softer suspension settings and 16-inch wheels while providing an upgraded JBL-branded sound system with an in-dash CD changer and satellite radio, Bluetooth phone and music connectivity, automatic dual-zone climate control, a power passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, reclining rear seats, a moonroof, wood-tone accents and, on the V6 model, leather seating. Note that neither the SE nor the XLE offers the folding rear seat, though each has a center pass-through.
Most of the XLE's upgrades are offered on the lower trim levels as options. Other major options, depending on trim level, include a sunroof, a navigation system, keyless ignition and entry and heated front seats.

2011 Toyota Camry : Propulsion and Performance


All front wheel drive Camry engine and standard on the basic, LE and XLE trim is a 2.5 liter four-cylinder that generates 169 horsepower. SE receives an enhanced version of the same engine is good for 179 hp. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all Camry XLE four-cylinder except that only comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. For the rest of the rock, the automatic option. Fuel economy is estimated at 22 mpg and 26 mpg highway mpg city/33 combined with the manual while the auto highway mileage decreases slightly to 32 mpg.
Optional on all models except the base Camry is a 3.5-liter V6 that cranks 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is the only transmission choice. Thus equipped, the Camry can sprint to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds in the fleet, but fuel economy is always impressive at19/28/23 mpg.


2011 Toyota Camry : Safety

Every 2011 Toyota Camry comes with antilock brakes with brake assist, stability control, side airbags for front seats, full-length side curtain airbags and driver knee airbag.
The new government, the center most demanding crash test in 2011, the Camry has received an overall rating of three stars out of a possible five, with three stars for overall frontal crash protection and three stars for the whole page protectionof Accident Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the top rating of "good" in frontal-offset and side impact tests.


2011 Toyota Camry : Interior Design and Special Features

In essence, the LE, Camry interior simple and functional. Toyota decades of experience in ergonomics shines through here - the main controls are large and logically arranged, and the seats generally easily accommodate most body types. There are many storage Cubbies, too. The ice blue backlighting for audio and climate control may seem a bit tacky, but it makes things come alive a little. SE adds sporty interior styling elements, while XLE rise with convincing faux wood accents and a premium feature not usually seen in this segment - adjustable rear seats. Trunk capacity for all models is 15 cubic feet.
In particular, the construction and quality materials are not always of high standard set by the previous generation Camry. Some of the plastics, furniture and the panel is not yet clear. Camry interior is not bad by any means, but it is longer than the average in this segment.


2011 Toyota Camry : Driving Impressions

Camry is a tried and true formula is to provide excellent ride comfort and isolation at the expense of the practical driving dynamics. IF ratchets pleasant fun in tight corners, but in reality is just a little 'tougher than a slightly soft, and less involved in family sedans you can buy. Even so, the suspension of muffled Camry may be a better more solid, more casual approach to the Mazda and Nissan.

It is a sport unequivocal - the turbine smooth V6 option, which transforms the 2011 Toyota Camry one of the fastest mid-range cars on the road while maintaining an impressive fuel economy. The four-cylinder is not so handsome, but his performance and the economy remain very good for a midsize sedan.

MSRP: $20,195 - $29,845

2011 Chevrolet Volt Review, Best Electric Cars

2011 Chevy Volt Review : It's just one of the many good things Motor Trend magazine had to say about Chevrolet Volt when it was named "2011 Motor Trend Car of the Year®." The annual award is one of the most prestigious honors bestowed in the auto industry and further proof that it's a new day for Chevrolet, not to mention the entire auto industry. Powered by electricity without being tethered to electrical outlets, the Volt does everything a great car does and, according to Motor Trend, better than any other. It's further proof that today, tomorrow and on into the future, Chevy Runs Deep. Available to order at participating dealers. Quantities limited.



Volt, Chevrolet's electric vehicle that can use gas (but only if you need to). Volt will take you wherever you need to go - whether it's to the corner store or on a long-distance road trip. Check out the video to get an overview of Volt from the minds behind its creation.

2011 Chevrolet Volt EXTERIOR

By its very nature, Volt is engineered to change the face of transportation as we know it. Nearly every component of Volt has been selected to get the most out of every charge, including:
  • Aerodynamics that maximize the distance per charge and miles per gallon of fuel
  • A closed grille and aerodynamic back edges that contribute to its fuel efficiency
  • Energy-efficient Bose® Sound System
  • Goodyear Assurance Fuel Max tires

2011 Chevrolet Volt INTERIOR
Volt has two LCD screens that display speed, battery power, range to recharge or re-fill as well as an efficiency gauge that gives you real-time feedback. On the center console you'll find a seven-inch diagonal high-resolution screen with touch-sensitive control that helps you get the most out of your Volt.


2011 Chevrolet Volt PERFORMANCE
Power from an exceptional battery
The Volt battery has gone through numerous environment-specific tests, including corrosion and hot- and cold-weather testing and the results were so promising that the 16-kWh lithium-ion battery pack is backed by an 100,000-mile/8-year limited warranty.
Here are a few more notes on the battery:

Volt offers an EPA-estimated 35 miles of initial EV range offering a gas-free and tailpipe emissions-free commute for about $1.50 of electricity per day
When the battery is depleted, a small, quiet onboard gas generator creates electricity that powers your Volt as you drive for hundreds of additional miles
Lithium-ion cells outperform nickel-metal hydride cells (found in today's hybrid vehicles) in terms of life cycle
A liquid thermal cooling and heating system keeps the battery at a comfortable temperature as it's being charged and discharged

2011 Chevrolet Volt SAFETY
Making the future safer, Volt drivers and passengers will be wrapped in a cocoon of standard safety. With eight air bags ready to deploy in an emergency, it's obvious safety is of the highest priority. Joining this built-in safety is an unprecedented five-year subscription to OnStar® Directions and Connections® including Automatic Crash Response. In the event of a collision, built-in sensors can automatically alert an OnStar Advisor, who is immediately connected into your vehicle to see if you need help sent to your exact location - even if you can't respond.

2011 Chevrolet Volt TECHNOLOGY
Pick your mode, The Volt has been programmed with three unique driving modes to accommodate different driving styles. Normal mode is the most efficient setting that takes the electricity and focuses it on operating the electric drive. Sport mode sacrifices a small amount of efficiency for more responsive acceleration, and Mountain mode makes sure the battery has a bigger energy reserve for driving up long, steep inclines.



Simply put, the Volt charges up for a range of about 40 miles on battery power only; then the gasoline engine allows another 300 miles or so on top of that.

The sole fly in the ointment is the inevitably high early adopter price: $41,000. New auto technology always costs a lot when it first hits the market, and the Volt's lithium-ion battery pack all by itself likely costs half the price of a new 2011 Chevy Cruze subcompact. We've heard word that GM is planning to up production of the vehicle to 12,000 units by 2012, which means that the automaker is anticipating steeper demand connected to ever loftier fuel prices. Though the Volt seems to be serving as the missing link between our transportation right now and full electrification, the price will have to drop before we see them wheeling around every corner.


Sunday, September 11, 2011

2011 Honda CR-V Reviews, Options, Specs and Photos

2011 Honda CR-V Reviews: On This year, Honda has been released a new 2011 Honda CRV. 2011 Honda CRV also provides several options, including: 2WD 5dr LX, 2WD 5dr EX, 2WD 5dr EX-L, 2WD 5dr EX-L w/Navi, 2WD 5dr SE, 4WD 5dr LX, 4WD 5dr EX, 4WD 5dr EX-L, 4WD 5dr EX-L w/Navi, 4WD 5dr SE.
2011 Honda CRV
A little homely on the outside, but conservative, upright, and straightforward on the inside, the 2011 Honda CR-V won't exactly pull in design-savvy shoppers. Performance sure isn't the 2011 Honda CR-V's strong suit, but it's not an outright disappointment either. The 2011 Honda CR-V has an average features and options list for its class, but desirable tech features like Bluetooth are absent from most of the line. The 2011 Honda CR-V is powered by a fuel-efficient powertrain, but it's not much better than average on gas

Here are some reviews the features found on the 2011 Honda CRV.
2011 Honda CRV Interior
The CR-V sports plenty of power and agility to make driving a thrill.
i-VTEC Engineering
The 180-hp, DOHC i-VTEC® engine provides both low-rpm torque and plenty of horsepower at higher revs.

Easy Shifting
A 5-speed automatic transmission makes for smooth shifts and power when you need it. It also features our Grade Logic Control System, which helps put an end to gear-hunting when climbing uphill or driving back down.
2011 Honda CRV Engine
The Drive Itself
The CR-V utilizes MacPherson strut front suspension for a better drive. And available Real Time™ 4-wheel drive helps increase performance during adverse road conditions.

In Section Interior 2011 Honda CRV has been equipped with several features, complete the following:

Talk Hands-Free
With the available Bluetooth HandsFreeLink, you can make calls with your compatible phone while you travel (EX-L with Navigation).

Stellar Audio
Take your MP3 along for the ride. USB Audio Interface (EX-L) makes it easy to listen to your favorite soundtrack driving. And all CR-V audio systems feature MP3/auxiliary input jack and MP3 and Windows Media Audio (WMA)-compatible.

Driver-Focused
Steering wheel-mounted controls, available heated leather seating (EX-L) and one-touch power moonroof (EX, EX-L) CR-V makes driving more fun. Just sit back and relax in the driver's seat with 10-way power adjustment including power lumbar support (EX-L).

Comfortable perfect
EX-L models feature a deep center console with two beverage holders and 12-volt electrical outlet and jack inputs MP3/auxiliary. Abundant storage space, thanks to the glove compartment upper and lower shelves and rear dual-deck cargo (EX, EX-L). Need more space? 60/40 split rear seats have you covered.

Passenger-Friendly
CR-V seats five comfortably, and rear-seat passengers can also enjoy their own rear air vents and fold-down center armrest.

New Honda Civic 2011 Sedan Reviews

2011 Honda Civic Reviews Honda has released New Honda Civic 2011. For the year 2011, the New Honda Civic does not significant changes. Estimated Prices: $15,605–$25,490
Available Engines
140-hp, 1.8-liter I-4 (regular gas)
113-hp, 1.8-liter I-4 (natural gas)
197-hp, 2.0-liter I-4 (premium)



Transmissions
6-speed manual w/OD
5-speed automatic w/OD
5-speed manual w/OD

Honda's compact Civic is available in coupe and sedan body styles and is positioned between the subcompact Fit hatchback and midsize Accord in Honda's lineup. The Civic competes with the Toyota Corolla, Hyundai Elantra and Nissan Sentra. Five distinct models are available: the Civic sedan and coupe, Civic Si sedan and coupe, and the Civic Hybrid sedan, which is covered separately in the Cars.com Research section. In addition, approved Honda dealers in California, Utah, Oklahoma and New York carry a Civic GX powered by natural gas.

Styling
The Civic's design was truly trend-setting when it was introduced five years ago, and it still looks fresh from the outside.

Performance
No matter which model, the 2011 Honda Civic delivers satisfying performance and a perky, nimble driving feel.

Quality
The 2011 Honda Civic offers a refined interior, but especially with its tight back seat it's far from the most comfortable among small sedans.

Features
The 2011 Honda Civic does have some impressive possibilities, but they're only offered in top-of-the-line EX-L models; otherwise the feature list is unimpressive.


Exterior
Honda says the Civic features an "expressive and futuristic design." Design touches include a steeply raked windshield, minimal front and rear overhangs, and small gaps between the tires and fenders. Exterior features include:
  •     Standard 15-inch wheels
  •     Optional 16-inch wheels
  •     Optional power moonroof
  •     Optional rear deck spoiler and chrome exhaust finisher
Interior
All Civics seat five, and the driver faces a two-tier instrument panel and a tilt/telescoping steering wheel. There is a multifunction center console. Interior features include:
  •     Standard power windows
  •     Optional navigation system with voice recognition
  •     Optional Bluetooth limited to navigation-equipped vehicles
  •     Optional USB audio interface for MP3 players and flash drives
  •     Optional leather interior
  •     Optional XM Satellite Radio

Regular Civic coupes and sedans use a 1.8-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder. All models use drive-by-wire throttle control. Mechanical features include:
  •     140 horsepower and 128 pounds-feet of torque
  •     Five-speed manual transmission
  •     Optional five-speed automatic
  •     MacPherson strut front suspension and a compact multilink double-wishbone rear suspension
Safety
As in previous years, the electronic stability system is not available on lower trim levels, but it's standard on EX-L trims and above. Standard safety features include:
  •     Antilock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution
  •     Side-impact and side curtain airbags
  •     Active head restraints for front seats
Civic Si
Honda's performance-oriented Si model — offered as a sedan and coupe — features a rear deck spoiler, cladding and Si badging that's different from the coupe's rear spoiler and cladding. The engine cover also is black instead of silver. Features include:
  •     2.0-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder
  •     197 hp at 7,800 rpm and 139 pounds-feet of torque at 6,200 rpm
  •     Six-speed manual gearbox
  •     Limited-slip differential
  •     Deeply bolstered seats with red fabric stitching
  •     Alloy wheels with 17-inch tires
  •     USB audio interface for MP3 players and flash drives
  •     Navigation system with voice recognition available

2011 Ford Ranger Reviews, Prices and Specs

2011 Ford Ranger

2011 Ford Ranger Reviews, Prices and Specs. With 207 horsepower and 238 lb.-ft. torque than the optional 4.0-liter V6, can tow up to 5800 pounds. Choose Ranger 4x4 and you can get involved both axles at the turn of a button. Ranger gives you what you want from a pickup full size in a compact truck that is priced much less.


There are no significant changes for the 2011 Ford Ranger.
Ford keeps its streak alive with its compact Ranger pickup. The Ranger returns for another year with no changes, as Ford prepares to end production sometime in 2011.

The Ranger is a true compact truck, sized below the mid-size Toyota Tacoma, Dodge Dakota and Nissan Frontier. Only GM's truck twins, the GMC Canyon and Chevrolet Colorado, still offer the smaller dimensions in the truck class. That's a vice and a virtue: the Ranger still offers good fuel economy and easy parkability, but can't haul the goods like some of the larger trucks.



Ford's compact pickup truck has gone more than a decade without a major redesign, which makes this truck positively geriatric when it comes to the automotive world and even dated by truck standards. While there have been updates to this fourth-generation model the 2010 Ranger (finally) got electronic stability control and side-impact airbags, for instance -- the Ranger doesn't measure up to the competition in several important areas.

The biggest drawback is the 2011 Ford Ranger's dated design. Because of a comparatively small size and lack of a four-door crew cab model with forward-facing rear seats, the Ranger is hard to recommend to anyone but business owners. Such buyers might appreciate the Ranger's low price and relatively decent fuel economy, but they'll still be disappointed by a lack of features. For example, the Ranger is one of only a handful of Ford vehicles that still lack the company's new technological features like the Sync hands-free system or the contractor-friendly Work Solutions.

While we're waiting for Ford to introduce the next-generation Ranger, we suggest shoppers looking for a compact pickup check out the larger and more refined Nissan Frontier and Toyota Tacoma. Commercial users may also want to consider the new Ford Transit Connect van, which offers better fuel economy than V6-powered Ranger models and significantly better cargo capacity.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Ford Ranger is a compact pickup truck available in regular-cab and extended-cab (SuperCab) body styles. Both are available in XL, XLT and Sport trim levels. A 6-foot bed is standard on all cab styles and trims (though a 7-foot bed is optional for fleet buyers on the XL regular cab model).

Ranger XL


Ranger XLT


Ranger Sport

The XL is sparsely equipped with 15-inch steel wheels, a trailer hitch, a 60/40 front bench seat, vinyl (cloth on the SuperCab) upholstery, air-conditioning and an AM/FM stereo. The XLT gets foglamps, upgraded exterior trim, cloth upholstery (regular cab), full power accessories, keyless entry, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel and an upgraded stereo with CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The XLT 4X4 includes 15-inch alloy wheels, heavy-duty shock absorbers and tow hooks. The Ranger Sport receives upgraded wheels (16-inch alloys on 4x4 models), a full-size spare tire, heavy-duty gas shocks (SuperCab), skid plates (SuperCab 4x4 models only), sidestep bars, bucket seats and a center console.

The optional Payload Package #2 (V6 SuperCabs only) adds increased rear spring rates and heavy-duty shocks. A bedliner, rear tinted glass and a rear sliding window are also optional on the XLT and Sport.
Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Ford Ranger comes standard with a 2.3-liter inline-4 that produces 143 horsepower and 154 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a five-speed automatic is optional. This engine is only available with rear-wheel drive. EPA estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined with the manual and 19/24/21 with the automatic.

The available 4.0-liter V6 (an option on XLT and standard on Sport) yields 207 hp and 238 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive and a five-speed manual are standard, with four-wheel drive and a five-speed automatic available separately. Fuel economy ranges from 15/21/17 with rear drive and the manual to 14/18/15 on the 4X4 with the automatic.
Safety

The 2011 Ford Ranger comes standard with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and stability control. Side curtain airbags are not available.

In government crash testing, the Ranger earned a top five-star rating for driver protection in frontal impacts and four stars for front passenger protection. Side-impact protection for the front passengers also got five stars.

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal-offset crash tests, the Ranger earned an "Acceptable" rating (the second highest on a scale of four) and a top "Good" rating for side impacts on SuperCab models equipped with side-impact airbags. The IIHS also noted that the SuperCab's inward-facing rear jump seats are "not recommended for safe transport."
Interior Design and Special Features

The Ranger's interior hasn't had a significant makeover in more than a decade. What it lacks in style it makes up for with straightforward ergonomics, including simple user-friendly controls. The front seats are comfortable enough for most folks, though taller drivers will feel a little cramped.

SuperCab models can be had with a pair of rear-seat access doors and small, inward-facing rear jump seats. While these fold-down perches will accommodate a couple of young children or even a flexible adult for short jaunts, they're no place to put anyone whose comfort or safety you care about.
Driving Impressions

The 2011 Ford Ranger offers acceptable acceleration with the 4.0-liter V6 under the hood, though its giddy-up pales in comparison to its competitors. Opt for the 143-hp four-cylinder engine and you'll get relatively good fuel economy but relatively pokey performance.

Ride and handling seem good enough until you drive the Ranger back to back with more up-to-date models from Dodge, GM, Nissan and Toyota, at which point the truck's choppy ride and subpar handling and braking become readily apparent.

Estimated price:
Ranger XL : $18,985
Ranger XLT : $19,945
Ranger SPORT : $23,250

2011 Ford Ranger

Saturday, September 10, 2011

2011 Ford Escape SUV Reviews, Features, Specs

2011 Ford Escape SUV Vehicle Overview

The Escape is Ford's smallest crossover SUV. The Escape's competition includes the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V and Saturn Vue. There is an Escape Hybrid available that's listed separately.

New for 2011

There are no significant changes for 2011.

Exterior:
The Escape has a plunging chrome grille in some trim levels that would be equally at home on a Volkswagen Jetta or Golf. A raised hood and high belt line may make the SUV look tougher, but they probably don't do much for visibility. Exterior features include:
  •     Capless refueling nozzle instead of fuel cap
  •     16- or 17-inch wheels
  •     Blind-spot display in side mirrors
Interior:
The Escape seats five in two rows of seats. The rear seat is split 60/40 and can be folded down to increase cargo space. Ford's optional voice-activated Sync multimedia system now includes traffic and weather information. Interior features include:
  •     Standard cruise control
  •     Available ambient lighting
  •     Available Sync multimedia interface
  •     Standard MP3 jack
  •     Available rearview camera, displayed in navigation system or rearview mirror

Under the Hood:
The Escapes self-parking system handles all the steering required for parallel parking. The driver must still shift the transmission into gear, as well as operate the gas and brake pedals. The driver can override the system and steer the car if needed.
  •     171-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder (171 pounds-feet of torque)
  •     240-hp, 3.0-liter V-6 (223 pounds-feet of torque)
  •     Available six-speed automatic transmission
  •     Available five-speed manual
  •     Drive-by-wire throttle control

      Safety:
      The Escape features MyKey, which allows owners to create settings for teen drivers such as a top speed limit, maximum stereo volume and alerts if the driver goes faster than 45 mph. Other safety equipment includes:
      • Standard electronic stability system
      • Antilock brakes
      • Roll stability control
      • Dual-stage front airbags
      • Front-seat-mounted side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags

      Styling:
      Bless its boxy heart, the 2011 Ford Escape still looks more like an SUV than it does like a crossover--a good thing, save for the hard surfaces inside.



      Performance:
      The 2011 Ford Escape's full of mixed performance messages: Hybrid versus V-6, ground clearance versus low ride height, electric power steering versus rear drum brakes.

      Quality:
      Cargo and passenger space are some of the 2011 Ford Escape's strengths; plasticky trim is a weakness.