azda has announced that it’s developing an electric vehicle based on the Demio subcompact – known as the Mazda2 in Europe and North America –, which will be available for lease in Japan starting from spring 2012.

2011 Mazda Demio driving range is expected to be around 200 km (124 miles) and that it will be leased mainly to local government bodies and fleet customers. Mazda’s foray into the EV segment focuses on developing electric cars suitable for customers with short city commutes. Through the aforementioned lease program, the Japanese maker hopes to gain valuable information about usage requirements and electric drive technologies.

Certain systems sourced from EVs such as regenerative braking tech, will make their way into conventional models, which will also benefit from the firm’s SKYACTIV technologies, announced at the 2009 Tokyo Motor Show.

The company’s core values are going to be centered around the internal combustion engine, but in the long run, customers can expect to find an increasing number of eco-friendly technologies

uabru has released the price list 2011 Subaru STI tS in japan. 2011 four-door sedan version of the IST, and comes with a roof made of carbon fiber. It should reduce the weight of the WRX STI significantly, which again, improves performance and handling. Even more of weight saving measures were taken with the TS Subaru Impreza STI by introducing an aluminum cap.Tuned for superior handling and driving feel, the brand new models are equipped with components including Flexible Rear Support and Rear Suspension Link, as well as front and rear Dampers and special Coil Springs tuned by the STI, Flexible Tower Bar front, and the Flexible Draw-Stiffeners which have been adopted to the R205 model releasedAs mentioned the recent WRX STI tS comes with carbon roof and aluminum hood to lower the burden and enhance the performance. Other features include Front Under Spoiler, newly designed STI 18 inch alloy Wheel, side sill plates with the “tS” logo, special tS front and rear Ornaments, special STI rear Ornament, Steering Wheel with the “tS” logo, and Push Engine Switch. The MT model is supplied with Ball Bearing Turbo Charger.xterior body colors available: satin white pearl, obsidian black pearl, spark silver metallic, and WR blue mica. Also to enhance tS ownership, STI Real Leather Access Key Cover (red) is selected as the premium accessory.

he world’s first dedicated luxury hybrid vehicle, was revealed at the 2009 North American International Auto Show. The Lexus HS 250h, the first Lexus to utilize carbon-neutral Ecological Plastic materials in a new futuristic cockpit and interior design.


A welcomed addition to Lexus’ entry-luxury sedan lineup, the Lexus HS 250h fits nicely between the IS luxury sport sedan and the ES luxury sedan. Research has shown that more than 60 percent of entry-luxury car buyers would have considered a hybrid if available, and the Lexus HS will provide these consumers with a viable purchase option.

Equipped with Lexus’ first four-cylinder gas engine, the 2.4-liter Atkinson-cycle powerplant is part of the latest Lexus Hybrid Drive System, which generates 187 total system horsepower. The highly efficient Atkinson-cycle engine, made possible by the Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system, allows the expansion/power stroke to be longer than the compression stroke so that combustion energy can be more effectively used for production of engine power. The Lexus HS 250h sedan’s expected fuel efficiency will be more than 30-percent better than the most fuel-efficient model currently in the Lexus lineup, while earning a SULEV emissions rating utilizing regular 87-octane gasoline. Among the technologies adopted in the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine are cooling piston oil jets; an optimized balance shaft rate for improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) characteristics; and a hot-air venting system mounted behind the radiator.

Like the all-new 2010 Lexus RX 450h hybrid utility vehicle that made its debut in November, the Lexus HS 250h will include a new system designed to improve efficiency. The exhaust heat recovery system reduces engine warm-up time, thus allowing it to stop earlier, more often, and for longer periods. A windshield with infrared-ray (IR) reduction properties, which helps keep the interior more cool, has been adopted in order to decrease the amount of air conditioning needed to lower the cabin temperature. In addition to the exhaust heat recovery system and the IR windshield, available power-saving LED headlamps also contribute to improved fuel efficiency and emissions.

The all-new Lexus HS 250h sedan’s 0.27 drag coefficient (Cd) makes it among the most aerodynamic in its class. Airflow management over the exterior, below the under floor and through the air passages was extensively examined. A unique gull-wing-shaped roof-panel design reduces mass and overall vehicle height, thus reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency. The front spoiler, rear spoiler, rear under spoiler, and diffuser fins all reduce turbulence. Smooth A-pillar shape and the optimized angle and curvature of the bumper side panels also reduce wake turbulence, as does the increased taper of the fender side panels. The under-floor covers have been optimally positioned for reduced drag, while airflow restriction in the engine compartment has been lowered by optimizing the air-duct profiles around the radiator.

Aerodynamic design has also contributed to decreased wind noise. A smoother transition between windshield (complete with a sound-insulating inner layer) and roof line has improved

has been released by Vauxhall, combining the elegance and flexibility, featuring a light, the production car’s design, shown in these first official images, has deviated very little from the Geneva concept, illustrating the design-chief, Mark Adams’ continued influence on The look of all-new Vauxhall products, and reinforcing his ‘Sculptural artistry meets technical precision’ mantra.

2012 Vauxhall Zafira Tourer is equipped with Two new engines – a 1.4 Turbo petrol and a 2.0 CDTi diesel (with three outputs) – join a 1.8-liter petrol unit to offer a spread of power options from 110PS to 165PS.

The Vauxhall Zafira Tourer will from the receive its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show (Sept. 15-25).

The Zafira retains the Flex7 Tourer concept, and is Able to transform from a 7-seat minivan to a 5-seat one. It Promises limousine-like quality and interior space, with a luggage area of up to 710 liters. When the rear seats are folded, Vauxhall Zafira Tourer cans offer a cargo space of up to 1860 liters.

Vauxhall’s new Zafira Tourer has a 2760mm (+57 mm) wheelbase, a 1584mm (+96 mm) front track and a 1588mm (+78 mm) rear one. The Increased dimensions result in better stability and more interior room. For better comfort and a smoother ride, fits the Vauxhall Zafira 2012 Tourer with the FlexRide system, that adapts the car’s damping to suit road conditions

Switzer Performance is a performance tuning company that is based out of Oberlin, OH. They specialize in
modifying your Nissan, Bentley, Porsche, Mercedes-Benz or so that when its done, it’ll take you straight to jail if you let it. Take their current creation for example – the mighty P800 Nissan . Stock the big Nissan managed to pull off some impressive numbers in the way of 416 r Performance may be familiar to some of our readers for their 800-horsepower Porsche 911s. But at one customer’s request, they’ve done the same thing to the GT-R. With an eye on increasing the all-important power-to-weight ratio, r installed new turbochargers, intercoolers, intakes and exhaust, along with some extra equipment like racing bucket seats and a big rear wing to keep it planted. The result is a 200-lb weight reduction and a 300-horsepower output increase, resulting in that magic number once again: 800 horsepower, with a side helping of 700 lb-ft of torque. Porsches, be afraid.WHP and 379 TQ. on the dyno.eight was additionally cut with the accession of a failing (ceramic-coated) titanium bankrupt system, dry-carbon decklid, and failing sports seats from Bride. Up on the scales, Super Silver 2010 advised in at a much-improved 3600 lbs. This is abundant to accomplish a cogent appulse on handling, braking, and straight-line speed.Up until the GTR, Switzer has been known for tweaking and tuning Porsches until they leave Ferrari Enzos in their wake. But I think their work on the new Nissan will give ome serious nods of approval from all sides. Anyone whose base package is good for 700HP on pump gas is a friend of mine. And that’s just what does. For just under 0  will install their “P700” package and give your car back withemissions compliant horsepower.

fter the successful release of three special edition Wrangler i
is now introducing a brand new jeep that is Jeep Wrangler Mojave. Jeep continues to refine the successful Wrangler formula by combining legendary, benchmark capability with an all-new interior that delivers rich styling with significantly upgraded touch surfaces, occupant comfort and versatility, and a premium appearance courtesy of an all-new body color hard top for the popular Sahara model.

Based on the Wrangler Sport model, the Mojave’s exterior features include a body-color hardtop and fender flares, “Mojave” and lizard decals on the hood and rear, and the Sahara model’s side steps. Jeep Wrangler Mojave also offers an aggressive Wrangler Rubicon tire and wheel package, with mineral gray 17-inch wheels shod with 32-inch tires. Finishing touches on the exterior include a black fuel filler door and taillamp guards.

Inside, Wrangler Mojave’s seats are dark saddle leather with a lizard logo embossed on the front seats. Unique driftwood surrounds the vents, front-passenger grab handle, steering-wheel spokes and door-handle inserts. Mopar tread pattern slush mats and overhead grab handles complete the Mojave package.

The new 2011 Jeep Wrangler Mojave is available in Sahara Tan, Bright White and Black. Available in Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited models, the 2011 Wrangler Mojave arrives in Jeep showrooms in June. The Jeep Wrangler Mojave option is available at a U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price ( oexcluding destination

he MDX is offered in five trim levels starting with the base model and moving up through the Technology, Technology and Entertainment, Advance and Advance and Entertainment groupings. The Technology package adds premium leather trim, navigation, and a 410-watt audio system, while the Advance package adds to that a collision-detecting system that pre-charges the brakes, adaptive cruise control, blind spot information and an active damper system for the suspension. The Entertainment package, which is offered with either the Technology or Advance groups, includes a rear seat monitor, DVD player, wireless headphones and heated rear seats.Fuel burn is about what we expected. The EPA rates the 2010 Acura MDX at 16 mpg city and 21 mpg highway sipping premium unleaded. During our 600-mile run, we consumed two full tanks on the highway. Hand-calculated, that worked out to 19.41 mpg on the first fill-up (daylight hours and averaging about 75 mph), and 21.78 mpg on the second (reduced speeds on the highway in the dark). Our city fuel economy, reported as 15 mpg by the trip computer, wasn’t a

Coupe or based Coupe originating from an autoweek.com story. Though it states Acura has no official plans to build it, we can all still wonder how it would look

I did a quick two hour photochop of the currentand removed the rear doors. Aside from the poor job I did on the rear quarter panels, I think it turned out alright. Perhaps a few minor styling upgrades to give it a more sportier look than the sedan and we might have a winner. Though I speak of the design only, I’m sure everyone has their wish list of things the Coupe should have.

I also found another good photoshopped T
Coupe from a AcuraZine thread a few months back. If someone knows who created it let me know.

analysis of 81 published reviews and test drives of the Acura MDX, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Acura MDX had strong performance, a high-tech interior and – the holy of holies – space for three car seats, with LATCH connecters and all, in the back seat.


The AcuraDX should appeal to a wide range of people. It has a powerful engine and nimble performance, making it a good SUV for driving enthusiasts who need extra passenger and cargo space. Its luxurious interior is stuffed with cutting-edge features that will have no problem keeping technophiles happy. And, with its seating for seven and space for three car seats, the X makes a strong case for itself as a family vehicle. Consumer Guide says theDX “has contemporary styling and thoughtful features.  has a highly desirable blend of luxury, performance, and convenience.” Most car reviewers wholeheartedly second that take.

On the road, the Acura  shines with its powerful V6 engine. While its fuel economy isn’t the best in the class, the power is so good that you may think it’s worth the tradeoff. Handling is also good, even in tight spaces like parking lots. Acrua’s Super-Handling All-Wheel drive system is standard, and the X does well in crash tests.

Inside, reviewers like the X’s comfortable first and second row seats. While the X is full of high-tech features, a few reviewers complain that because of all the bells and whistles, the dash is cluttered and confusing. Still, no one complains about the standard leather seats. Though the Acura X has a standard third row seat, reviewers point out that it’s best-suited for kids – adults will find it too cramped. TheX checks off its family car requirements by having three sets of LATCH connecters for car seats in the second row. If you have three little kids and need a little luxury in your life (and with three kids, who doesn’t?) theX is the car for you.
Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

The MDX is a great luxury midsize SUV, but if you don’t need a third row, you can save on price and gas mileage by looking at other options. The Lexus RX is a perennial reviewer favorite because, like the  it has an upscale, high-tech cabin. It starts at about $5,000 less than the does and gets better gas mileage, but it doesn’t have all-wheel drive standard. If you absolutely need all-wheel drive, you can get it on the RX. Just know that all-wheel drive  only undercut the DX by about

If you need that third row, consider the Volvo XC90. It has a standard third row seat and a lower price tag than the . However, the XC90 is dated compared to the X, and many reviewers say it’s time for the XC90 to get a refresh. The XC90 is one of the least expensive options in the class, and you’ll feel it in its lack of refinement and

always kind of thought that the term “luxury SUV” was an oxymoron. Seriously, if you’re going to spend the equivalent of a four-year college education on a car, are you really going to take it off road in the mountains and leave it at a trail head while you go backpacking? Isn’t this the ride you should take to navigate around city street potholes on your way to the opera?

While that may be true for some luxury we have had the opportunity to drive, it is not really the case for the Acura  Sure, Acura deems it a luxury vehicle. And, sure, the certainly has plenty of luxury features on board, but it’s not a pretentious ride. It’s really just an all-wheel drive vehicle so packed with safety and performance features that it assures you that you could go all places in comfort. In other words, it’s not a primhe Acura -horsepower  engine is as powerful as some V8 engines, Acura notes, yet it is also ultra-low emission and Acura says it is among the most fuel-efficient in its class. Acura’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system is a full-time, all-wheel-drive system that distributes the optimum amount of torque between front and rear axles as well as left and right rear wheels. This package improves traction and cornering ability. When working in conjunction with the Vehicle Stability Assist, the M can adeptly handle roads that are rutted, rocky, wet, dry, covered in snow or are icy. If you opt for the Sport Package, the will be equipped with an Active Damper System, that uses a high-tech system of dampers to individually adjust shock absorbers, which in turn smoothes out those rough roads even further

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