The 2011 Models We're Most Excited About

Like the dawn of a new year, the 10 cars in this list are full of promise and potential. From high-powered exotics to lively family sedans and sporty hatchbacks, the class of 2011 has something for everyone. They’re also the cars we’re most excited to drive in 2011:

                                                  McLaren MP4-12C

The McLaren F1 is still considered by many to be the ultimate supercar. Built from 1992 to 1998, the 3-passenger F1 (the driver sits in the middle) could hit a top speed of 231 mph. So when a new McLaren sports car comes to market, well, you can bet we’re going to take notice. The new McLaren MP4-12C is targeting rivals like the Ferrari 458 Italia and Lamborghini Gallardo, armed with a lightweight carbon-fiber tub that cradles a twin-turbocharged 592-bhp 3.8-liter V-8 engine behind the cockpit. A 7-speed twin-clutch sequential-shift transmission is the only gearbox on offer—there is no clutch pedal, or traditional manual shifter. Also gone from the original F1 is the unique 3-passenger layout, though the suave cabin of the MP4-12C is a perfect blend of Formula 1 technology and business-class luxury.


Ford Boss Mustang   

Ford is bringing back a legend with the revival of the Boss Mustang. Originally conceived in the late-1960s—in the heat of Trans-Am competition and during the height of the muscle-car era—the Boss came to be revered by Mustang fans. Ford looks set to inspire a new generation with the 2012 edition of the Boss Mustang. The car’s rumbling 440-bhp 5.0-liter V-8 engine and wild bodywork seem as though they came straight from a racetrack. Adding to the retro theme are items like adjustable dampers that require a screwdriver to adjust—like on the original Boss—along with an optional red-colored “track key.” This dealer-installed option changes 200 engine parameters, improving torque and throttle response while also enabling a configurable launch control ideal for drag racing. The suspension has also been upgraded to match the performance potential of the rest of this potent ’Stang.


                                   Mercedes SLS AMG Convertible   

The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG convertible presents a serious decision, at least for anyone able to afford the $185,000 base price of the regular SLS AMG coupe. Expected to start at roughly $200,000, the SLS AMG convertible gains a droptop, but loses the dramatic gullwing doors of the coupe. It’s the type of car-buying dilemma most of us only dream about having to make. Like its hardtop cousin, the SLS AMG convertible is powered by a 571-bhp 6.2-liter V-8, coupled with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. A set of huge ceramic brakes (15.4-in. front/ 14.2-in. rear) provides serious stopping power for those emergency paparazzi-avoidance maneuvers that many SLS owners will face. The SLS AMG convertible arrives (fashionably) late this year, most likely during the Frankfurt Auto Show.

BMW 650i 

Convertible Gone are the awkward lumps and bumps that detracted from the looks of the last generation of 6 Series convertible. The handsomely revised new 650i Convertible arrives this spring (as a 2012 model), and the big BMW finally has the suave exterior to match the swagger of its potent powertrain. A 400-bhp twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V-8 is under the hood, coupled to either an 8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual transmission. BMW quotes a 0-60 mph time of 4.9 seconds, along with a top speed that is electronically limited to 155 mph. Even more impressive is the rapid reaction time of the folding roof. Opening the top takes only 19 seconds, and closing it requires 24. Both can be done on the move, at speeds up to 25 mph.

                                                      Ferrari 458

Italia Convertible There isn’t much Ferrari can do to improve upon the incredible looks and performance of the 458 Italia. However, the addition of a convertible version seems a good place to start. With the top folded, you’ll be able to hear even more of the mechanical symphony being played by the 570-bhp 4.5-liter V-8 engine, mounted behind the cockpit. Punch the gas pedal and be prepared for an acoustic masterpiece, as this high-strung Italian engine wails its way to a 9000-rpm redline. Ferrari quotes the 458 Italia as being able to sprint from 0-60 mph in less than 3.4 seconds. Convertibles are almost always slightly heavier (slower) than coupes, though we doubt anyone will be complaining about a fraction of a second in the undoubtedly stellar performance of the 458 Italia convertible.

Chevy Camaro Convertible

Chevrolet is finally bringing the convertible version of its iconic muscle car to market, and we couldn’t be happier. The Chevrolet Camaro Convertible arrives this spring, just in time for perfect top-down weather. The Camaro has always been a great-looking car, with the only major fault being its limited rear visibility—a sacrifice you make for the aggressive styling. With a convertible top stowed away, this bowtie-wearing sports machine suddenly offers an unimpeded 360-degree view of the world. Pricing starts at approximately $30,000 for the Camaro Convertible equipped with the potent V-6 engine. Though we’d be tempted to pay extra for the growling 426-bhp 6.2-liter V-8, which comes with a choice of 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.  

                                                                                   VW Golf R 

Volkswagen is finally bringing its critically acclaimed Golf R to the U.S. With all-wheel drive and a snarling turbocharged 270-bhp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, this is definitely not your everyday Golf hatchback. The exterior is toughened up, thanks to bigger air intakes in the front fascia, a subtle roof spoiler and chunkier alloy wheels. VW says the Golf R is capable of hitting 60 mph in only 5.5 seconds. Better still, you shouldn’t lose time in the corners, or during inclement weather, thanks to the all-wheel-drive hardware putting power to the pavement. To help keep you in control—and in place—when the road gets twisty, the cabin features heavily bolstered sport seats and a thick-rim steering wheel.


Ford Focus ST 

For far too long, the U.S. has not been enjoying Ford’s lineup of sporty Focus hatchbacks sold in Europe. With the arrival of the new Focus next year, we finally get to join the fun thanks to the arrival of the front-wheel-drive Focus ST. The ST includes a 247-bhp 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, which offers more power and up to 20 percent better economy than before. The Focus ST also employs a Torque Vectoring Control system, to make certain the front wheels aren’t overwhelmed by the engine’s power. A lower ride height, sportier suspension settings and variable-ratio steering all add to the ST’s prodigious performance hardware. The Focus ST also comes with the large alloy wheels, spoilers and bigger air intakes you expect (and love) in a spacious 5-door hatchback that can outperform many sports cars.

                                                                                  Buick Regal GS 

How did a Buick sedan find its way onto a list that includes wild supercars and gorgeous convertibles? The answer is the Regal GS, a sports sedan that proves Buick is committed to targeting a younger, more driving-focused audience. The 2012 Buick Regal GS has a sport-tuned suspension, along with a turbocharged 255-bhp 4-cylinder engine that offers plenty of performance without the penalty of high fuel consumption. Buick says the Regal GS should reach 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. There is even a 6-speed manual transmission for drivers who prefer to shift for themselves. The cabin of every 2012 Regal GS will be black, with satin-finish trim on the steering wheel, console and instrument panel. The car comes loaded with standard features, such as satellite radio, park assist, pushbutton start and premium sound system.

Reference of: http://www.roadandtrack.com/special-report/the-new-year-s-coolest-new-cars

2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque Five-Door Official Photos and Info

With 20-inch wheels and styling that eschews typical SUV tough-guy cues such as faux skidplates, the three-door and five-door are aimed at upscale urban drivers who aspire to but can’t quite reach the Range Rover Sport. Dimensionally, the Evoque twins are the same except that the five-door is about one inch taller and rear-seat passengers get about two more inches of shoulder room in the more-spacious back seat.

As in the three-door, the five’s powertrain will be a 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injection four-cylinder making about 240 hp paired with full-time all-wheel drive. The engine is from Ford’s new family of EcoBoost four-cylinders. The powertrain will make the Evoque twins the two most expensive four-cylinder vehicles on the U.S. market.

The Evoque uses the largely steel, front-drive-based car platform under the Land Rover LR2, although only about 30 percent of the parts are carry-over. The Evoque’s sportier stance and proportions required major changes to the body stampings and suspension, says Land Rover managing director Phil Popham. The three-door Evoque should come in around 220 pounds lighter than the 4250-pound LR2, the five-door about 154 pounds lighter, says Popham.

One crucial difference between the three- and five-door: under U.S. law, sport-utility vehicles with two passenger doors are subjected to a withering 25-percent import duty. The so-called “chicken tax” owes its name to a 1963 trade dispute with France and Germany when the U.S. placed the duty on some agricultural goods and trucks in response to European duties on American-sourced chickens.

Trucks were different then, but the duty remains on the books and the urban-chic three-door (two passenger doors plus one tailgate) Evoque will have to pay it, while the five-door Evoque will be exempt.

The New Lexus LFA Debut!

Sexy, Sleek, and Stunning are three words to describe the new Lexus LFA Supercar. On October 21, 2009 Lexus announced the official launch of their new, two-seat supercar. The new LFA Supercar is scheduled to go into production at the end of 2010, but the pre-sale started on the 21^st of October. Only 500 units of the LFA will be produced and sold worldwide.

This past Wednesday, November 11, 2009 Eric Brooks, President of L.A. Car Connection, Inc. had the opportunity to ride in one, of three that are available in the world. Brooks sat shotgun next to professional driver, Scott Pruett when they reached a speed of 170 mph around the almost three mile racetrack. Brooks describes the experience as exhilarating. “There is nothing like this car, it truly is a one-of-a-kind.” Says Brooks.
The car has been quoted by experts, saying “The LFA is Ultra-responsive and extremely stable even when taken to the edge, the LFA creates a sense of reassurance that opens up a new world of driving emotion, exhilarating the senses to move the driver in more ways than one.”

The vehicle has several appealing features.  The LFA has a newly developed 4.8-liter V10 engine. With its very compact size, (smaller than the average V8), and incomparable power, it allows for optimal power-to-weight ratio.

The transmission along with the engine is placed within the wheelbase. With optimal placement of the transmission and the fuel tank being in front of the rear axle, this sleek beauty has exceptional performance and remarkable stability.

You can find a prototype of the LFA , now on display at the 41st Tokyo Motor Show, which is open to the general public from October 24 to November 4 at Makuhari Messe in Makuhari, Chiba Prefectu.

Porsche Plans a Hybrid in Every Model Line

Porsche is counting on hybrid drive to help reduce its fleet CO2 emissions. “In the future, we will have hybrid drive in every model line," development chief Wolfgang Duerheimer said.

Earlier this year, Porsche launched a hybrid version of its Cayenne SUV. A Panamera sedan will go on sale with the Cayenne's hybrid technology in 2011. According to Porsche engine chief, Heinz-Jakob Neusser, the Panamera hybrid will be able to travel about 3 miles under electric power.

Porsche's first electrically powered sports car, the 918 Spyder, will come next, with small production runs planned in three to four years. “We want to learn how we can electrify all our sports cars in the future with the help of this short production run," Duerheimer said.

4 cylinder engines:

The company could also introduce smaller engines to help cut CO2 emissions.

"If the CO2 guidelines require it, then our engines will become smaller and may have just four cylinders," Duerheimer said. “The important thing is that the performance has to be right. The 911 must always be on the cutting edge.” He is looking at turbocharging and direct injection. They could be used to transform a four-cylinder powerplant into a sports car engine.

Weight is another parameter and Porsche aims to ensure that new models are no heavier than the vehicles they replace. "A constant weight is our minimum requirement in the change to a new generation, even with compliance with all the new safety and comfort requirements," Duerheimer said. That means a new model must be 10 percent lighter each generation, so that the new car doesn't end up weighing any more than the old.

He said Porsche is developing carbon car bodies for road vehicles that can be used to make another improvement of 110 pounds in weight.These could be ready in five years.

Porsche is introducing new smaller vehicles such as the planned Cajun SUV, which will positioned below the Cayenne, to win new customers, not to cut the carmaker's CO2 emissions, Duerheimer said.

Reference: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20101018/CARNEWS/101019895

L.A. Car Connection Welcomes the 2011 Infiniti M37

Infiniti's objective for the latest M series was to enhance its overall image, in terms of both styling and performance. Our early drives of engineering prototypes indicated that the longer, lower, wider exterior styling changes definitely impart a sleeker, more elegantly muscular appearance that looks especially good when viewed rolling down the road.

The wider stance, primarily for styling purposes, also contributes to improved road holding, with the front track 1.4 inches wider and the rear track 0.8 inch wider. The wheelbase is unchanged, but new rear-suspension geometry aims for a quieter ride and additional handling stability.

Under the hood, the 3.7-liter V6 of the M37 outpowers not only the previous V6 but also the 4.5-liter V8 of the previous M45 by five horses, for a total of 330 hp. The new 32-valve, 5.6-liter V8 in the M56 ups the ante to 420 hp (an additional 95 hp) and 400 lb-ft of torque (81 lb-ft more). A seven-speed automatic transmission with rev matching on downshifts in the manual sport mode backs up either engine.

The M56 prototype we drove was the Sport version, which also includes 20-inch wheels, four-wheel active steering, sport suspension and four-piston caliper, vented-disc brakes. Infiniti admitted that the M56 we had driven earlier was not quite ready for prime time, but engineering changes since then were evident as soon as we got on the throttle in a more recent test drive. Power-train engineers changed the shift-program software for more responsive part-throttle operation which holds lower gears longer and makes better use of the available torque. The result is that the standard setting of the four-mode M drive is more assertive off the line, while the sport mode responds even more aggressively when you mash the throttle or downshift. In short, despite a more discreet exhaust note than on previous models, you can feel the added punch of the larger, more powerful V8.

The M37 V6 prototype we drove had an authoritative growl and an enthusiastic throttle response.

In manual mode, the transmission provides crisp upshifts, but the downshifts, while fine for the majority of the intended audience, could be a bit more aggressive physically and aurally for the hard-core. Steering feel and response were very good. Under aggressive cornering in tight turns, the rear steering (with "4-Wheel Active Steer") lagged a bit. Otherwise, both ends of the M56 delivered solid handling and a firm but comfortable ride. Braking was very good but not outstanding. An eco mode (one of four throttle maps) saves fuel by pushing back on the accelerator, something that can be felt but is not annoying or distracting.

Overall, our drive revealed definite improvements over earlier M models, with performance and styling gains that should provide a stronger identity for Infiniti against the competition.

2011 Infiniti M37

ON SALE: Now

DRIVETRAIN: 3.7-liter, 330-hp, 270-lb-ft, V6; RWD, seven-speed automatic

FUEL ECONOMY (EPA): 21 mpg (est) 

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100127/CARREVIEWS/100129936#ixzz11gn0oYR0

Porsche 911 Speedster returns

Porsche is bringing back the 911 Speedster some 16 years and three model generations after it last was featured in the German sports-car maker's lineup.

The car, pictured here ahead of a planned unveiling alongside the 911 Carrera GTS at the Paris motor show, is just the third 911 Speedster to be put into series production and follows tradition by being based on the existing cabriolet version of Porsche's iconic rear-engine sports car.

Paying homage to the car that kicked off Porsche's fascination with the chopped-top look, the original 356 Speedster launched in 1953 at the behest of its U.S. importer. The new 911 Speedster uses standard bodywork but receives a shorter and more heavily raked windscreen than other 911 models.

A plastic tonneau cover behind the cabin also receives a double-bubble treatment reminiscent of that gracing the first 911 Speedster, the 964 model introduced in 1988. The overall appearance is further enhanced by the adoption of the widened rear bodywork of the latest 911 Carrera 4S cabriolet, with its 1.7-inch wider wheel housings.

A flat, manually operated fabric hood is designed to provide occasional protection from the elements, although as on earlier examples of the 911 Speedster, it is unlikely to be as sturdy as the standard 911 Cabriolet's automatic roof.

The car was created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Porsche Exclusive, the company's in-house individualization program. Porsche's latest 911 also receives a series of visual upgrades, including an additional chin spoiler at the base of the front bumper, tinted indicator lamps, blackened headlamps surrounds and windscreen frame, unique side sills and a rear bumper boasting 911 GT3-style air ducts behind the rear wheel arches. Inside, there is a combination of black leather and color-keyed elements from the Porsche Exclusive catalogue.

Power for the rear-wheel-drive 911 Speedster comes from the same 3.8-liter version of Porsche's classic horizontally opposed six-cylinder engine as that unveiled in the 911 Carrera GTS. With 402 hp, it packs 22 hp more than the standard 3.8-liter flat-six used in the 911 Carrera S cabriolet.

Torque remains the same at 310 lb-ft, albeit developed 200 rpm lower in the rev range at 4,200 rpm. No performance figures have been released, but expect 0 to 62 mph in about 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 190 mph.

Standard equipment includes Porsche's excellent seven-speed PDK dual-clutch gearbox, a locking differential, adaptive damping and carbon-ceramic brakes.

In a move that will ensure its exclusivity, Porsche says it plans to produce just 356 examples of the new 911 Speedster. North American pricing is yet to be revealed but look for the car to sticker at about $150,000.

Read more: http://www.autoweek.com/article/20100921/PARIS/100929985#ixzz10CFnssXV

2010 Jaguar XJ75

 

As part of the year long celebration of Jaguar’s 75 Years of Looking Forward, Jaguar Cars design team has created the XJ75 Platinum Concept, a one-of-a-kind design project on display at the Pebble Beach Concept Car Lawn this weekend.

The XJ75 Platinum Concept is the company’s first demonstration of the design customization potential of the striking new XJ luxury sedan, emphasizing the Jaguar’s dramatic interior and exterior styling themes.

“The new Jaguar XJ Platinum Concept celebrates Jaguar’s 75th Anniversary, and highlights the uniqueness of the XJ, and more broadly, the increasingly personal nature of luxury cars in today’s market,” said Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director of Jaguar Cars. “The XJ is thoroughly modern, and captures the innovative and daring character that our founder Sir William Lyons built into every Jaguar. And the design team clearly had some fun making their first one-of-a-kind XJ design concept in that spirit.”

Dominated by a striking white and black contrast theme that suggests precious platinum metal, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is a high-performance 470-hp 2011 Jaguar XJL Supercharged equipped with new ground-hugging front, rear and side sills. Painted a lustrous Satin Matte Pearlescent White, exterior chrome elements have been revised to either a dark chrome or gloss black. Bespoke 22-inch wheels are black and use a brushed contrast finish.

The contrast theme continues with gloss pearlescent white air vents, veneers and diamond stitch suede inserts to the seats and headliner, all set against the backdrop of a full Jet Softgrain leather interior. Suede and leather accents are seen throughout the interior to further material enhancements.

The XJ75 Platinum Concept center console houses a bespoke clock developed and designed in partnership with the Bremont Watch Company. An independent British company, Bremont creates beautifully engineered and designed mechanical watches hand assembled in Switzerland.

“From a pure design perspective, the XJ75 Platinum Concept is foremost about emphasizing the striking proportion and presence of the new XJ, with a distilled black and white theme, which conjures up the sense of precious platinum,” said Jaguar XJ Chief Designer Giles Taylor. “At the same time, the pure sporting character of XJ is brought to the fore by keeping the car’s clean graphic approach and further lowering its stance.

“On the inside, we played up the XJ’s combination of high-end materials and British flair to really have some fun. The XJ75 Platinum Concept is a design exercise that shows our vision of customization as an inspiration for those enthusiasts who have a taste for strong individuality and visual confidence in their luxury automobiles.”

Performance on the XJ75 Platinum Concept is derived from its 5.0-liter Supercharged direct-injection V8 with 470 horsepower and 424 lb.-ft of torque. Entertainment is provided by a 1,200-watt Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with 20 speakers powered through 15 channels and state-of-the-art sound processing technology.

·        Reference http://www.topspeed.com/cars/jaguar/2010-jaguar-xj75-platinum-concept-ar94964.html

Land Rover to Launch Its First Diesel Hybrid in 2013

According to Car Magazine, Land Rover announced it would launch its first hybrid model in 2013. The new Range Rover is a hybrid prototype that displays how hybrid technology will be put to work on a Range Rover Sport platform. With the expansion of the hybrid vehicle, the automaker stands a good probability of becoming one of the greenest companies around.

Land Rover’s promise to become environmentally friendly is starting to result in some appealing developments, with the automaker revealing this week its new Range_e hybrid concept vehicle based on the Range Rover Sport SUV.

Building on previous developments like the Electric Rear Axle Drive diesel-hybrid LR2 from 2008, Land Rover’s new Range_e points the way to the automaker’s first hybrid model due for sale in 2013, about the same time the next-generation Range Rover and Range Rover Sport models are due.

Few details have been released but Land Rover has confirmed that trials of a small test fleet of Range_e vehicles will start later this year, and eventually the automaker plans to develop a plug-in hybrid variant.

According to the guys at MotorAuthority.com, the Range_e features:

• 34 horsepower electric motor matched
• 3.0-liter V-6 turbodiesel engine on a common driveshaft

 In this configuration, the diesel-electric concept will be able to travel up to 20 miles on electric power alone and emit CO2 emissions of just 100 g/km--about two-thirds the levels of the Lexus RX 450h and comparable with a compact car.

Reference: http://www.autoevolution.com/news-image/land-rover-to-launch-its-first-diesel-hybrid-in-2013-20363-1.html

L.A. Car Connection's Newest Edition

From Lexus to Honda: 2010 Most Fuel Efficient Cars

2010 Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius, the family sedan has always been labeled the “environmentalist dream.” The Prius remains at the top of the list of most fuel efficient widely available vehicles, with 50 mpg combined fuel economy. The classic hybrid gets 51 MPG city and 48 mpg highway and will only cost you roughly $1.34 for 25 mpg. With an annual fuel cost of only $801.oo, the Prius was rated one of the greenest cars of the year by Greenopia and Kelley Blue Book.

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 2010 Honda Civic

This top-rated small car again proudly sits alongside the Prius among the widely available 2010 vehicles with 42 mpg fuel economy. Although the conventional Civic will run ou about $8,000 less, the hybrid Civic will save you $430 less to fuel annually. Compared to Prius, the Honda Civic Hybrid will cost you a mere $1.59 for every 25 miles you drive and only $953.00 to fuel annually. It was named one of Greenopia’s greenest cars of 2010.

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2010 Honda Insight
The second-best small car, also a good old’ Honda, is the newly redesigned Insight, a hybrid with a fuel economy of 40 mpg city, 43 highway. Another huge plus?  It costs a few thousand dollars less than the leaders in this class and will only cost you $1.63 to drive you 25 miles. It ranks on both Greenopia and Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest lists and has an annual fuel cost of $977.00

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Ford Fusion Hybrid
The most fuel-efficient family sedan behind the Prius, sits at about 39 mpg. If you’re stuck between buying The Fusion and its hybrid version, the hybrid costs $8,000 more, but will cost nearly $600 less to fuel each year. The extraordinary Fusion will give you 41 mpg city and 36 mpg highway and only cost you a little over $1000 annually to fuel. It was rated one of Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest cars of 2010, and it was named North American Car of the Year at the Detroit Auto Show.
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2010 Smart ForTwo
Whether you pick up the classic coupe or the convertible (looks a bit like a golf cart), the Smart ForTwo’s 36 mpg make it the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid car on the market. And at $11,990 it’s also the most affordable.  This little ride around will cost you roughly $1.85 to drive 35 miles, and $1,113 annually. Smart ForTwo’s was rated one of Greenopia’s greenest cars of the year.

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2010 Lexus HS250H
The Lexus HS 250h is of the most luxurious fuel-efficient car on the market, and really makes “going green” look sleek. This prestige vehicle offers 35 mpg city, and 34 mpg highway with an annual cost of only $1,145. If you want to contribute to the “go green” movement, but can’t quite give up the need for a luxury vehicle, then the 2010 Lexus HS250H is the car for you!
 

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2010 Nissan Altima Hybrid
This Nissan Altima Hybrid surprisingly is not much more expensive that the standard Altima. Running you about $7,000 more, the hybrid family sedan gets 34 mpg and will save about astounding $750 in fuel costs.



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2010 Toyota Camry Hybrid
The Toyota Camry Hybrid sedan brings the quality and reliability of the Camry together with increased fuel efficiency. Compared to the conventional Camry, the hybrid costs roughly $7,000 more, but at 34 mpg, the hybrid will save about $560 in annual fuel costs.


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Audi A3 TDI
The Audi A3 TDI offers sporty styling and dynamic performance combined with the latest luxury, entertainment and safety technology. The Sportback design adds utility and convenience that sets the A3 TDI apart from the crowd. The Audi A3 “clean diesel” TDI achieves 34 mpg – 10 mpg more than its gasoline-fueled cousin. Still, this car earned “Green Car of the Year” designation from the Green Car Journal. $1,226 annual fuel cost
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2010 Volkswagen Jetta TDI
The little Jetta gets 34 mpg and has an annual fuel cost of $1,235, making it one of the most fuel-efficient non-hybrids on the market. But it runs on diesel, which means its carbon footprint is greater than comparable vehicles. The stripped-down gasoline-powered Jetta costs about $5,000 less, but will cost about $350 more to fuel each year.
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2010 Volkswagen Golf TDI
The most fuel-efficient hatchback on the market, the Golf TDI gets 34 mpg and will only dip into your wallet about $1,235 a year. The TDI costs about $3,600 more than the gasoline, but saves about $300 annually in fuel costs. Because it burns diesel, its carbon emissions are greater than comparable cars. Also, it’s only going to cost you a mere $2.06 to drive 25 miles.


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2010 Volkswagen Jetta SportsWagen TDI
This diesel hatchback runs about $5,000 more than its gasoline-powered cousin, but with 34 mpg, it will save about $360 in annual fuel costs. Because it runs on diesel, its carbon footprint is higher than comparable vehicles. It was rated one of Kelley Blue Book‘s greenest cars of 2010.



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2010 Toyota Yaris
Whether the little Yaris you get is the 3-door hatch, the 5-door hatch (add $300) or the 5-door sedan (add $750), the little Yaris gets 32 mpg. From its excellent fuel economy and eccentric appearance to its comprehensive package of safety features, the 2010 Toyota Yaris is a good value.




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2010 Mini Cooper
Mini Coopers are among the most recognizable cars on the road, beloved for both their cutesy looks and zippy driving dynamics. The Cooper’s small size means it’s already incredibly maneuverable — and that’s before you consider that it has handling dynamics designed by parent company BMW’s engineers. The classic Mini Cooper gets 32 mpg and is rated one of 2010′s greenest cars by Kelley Blue Book. $1,366 annual fuel cost
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2010 Ford Escape Hybrid
The Ford family again has the only members in the over-30 mpg SUV club. The hybrid Ford Escape gets 32 mpg — as good as the tiny Mini Cooper. While it costs $11,000 more than the gasoline-powered Escape, it costs between $440 and $570 less to fuel every year (depending on whether you go with 4WD or not).


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2010 Honda Fit
The 2010 Honda Fit is a winner is almost every respect. Beloved by the automotive press for its innovative storage options, its extensive list of available features and its zippy ride, the Fit is a good choice for anyone shopping for an affordable small car. If you’re buying a new Fit, the automatic 5-speed gets the best mileage, with 31 mpg. It is rated one of the greenest cars of 2010 by Kelley Blue Book.

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2010 Kia Rio
The manual Kia Rio gets 31 mpg without the benefit of a hybrid engine, keeping its cost low. (The automatic drive comes in at a combined 30 mpg, but does better on the highway.) $1,294 annual fuel cost





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2010 Hyundai Accent Blue
At 31 mpg, this new baseline version of the Accent (which otherwise gets 30 mpg) is among the more affordable fuel efficient 2010 cars.  $1,294 annual fuel cost




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Reference: http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/fuel-efficient-cars-47102201#ixzz0rtTn6ztX

2011 Porsche 911 GT2 RS

The Car: the new Porsche 911 GT2 RS.

The GT2 RS is making its world debut at the Moscow Auto Show on August 25th.

Amount of power: 620 hp.

The weight: 3,021 lb in road trim with all fluids on board.

The future top GT model shows as the absolute high point in the 911 range as the fastest and most powerful sports car ever built in the history of Porsche. With power up by 90 hp and weight down by 154 lb, the new 911 GT2 RS has a power-to-weight ratio of just 4.9 lb per horsepower, by far the best power/weight ratio in its class. Clearly, these are the supreme components for an ultra-high-performance sports car with supreme agility, truly remarkable performance, and of course excellent Porsche Intelligence Performance.
The 3.6 liter six-cylinder boxer engine powered by two turbochargers is made with variable turbine geometry that is exclusive to Porsche.  Equally supreme stopping power     is standard on this ultra-high-performance sports car that comes from PCCB composite ceramic brakes. Appropriate longitudinal and crosswise dynamics are ensured by the sporting RS arrangement of the springs, Porsche Adaptive Suspension Management, anti-roll bars, as well as the engine mounts and PSM Porsche Stability Management.
The interior also exudes the finesse of sporting performance in nearly every detail, featuring lightweight bucket seats made of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic in carbon surface finish and lightweight door panels with door opening straps. The basic interior color is black, contrasting attractively with features such as the seat centre sections and the roof lining as well as segments on the steering wheel rim. The gearshift and handbrake lever are both finished in a red hot alcantara.

Limited to just 500 units, the 911 GT2 RS will be available in Europe from September 2010, in the USA from October 2010.

Future Cars: Luxury Hybrids and Electrics

Many of you may be wondering what to expect with hybrid and electric vehicles over the next few years? The market for hybrid and electric vehicles is expected to boom over the coming 12-24 months, with options ranging from hybrid vehicles, to plug-in hybrid vehicles to pure electric vehicles and range-extender electric. Could you be driving an electric or hybrid in the next few years?

Here’s what we can look forward to seeing in the coming years:

Chevrolet Volt:
Powertrain: Plug-in electric with range-extender fuel engine
What makes it great: GM’s ultra high-mile Chevy Volt plug-in electric vehicle is said to get 230 mpg. If GM pulls this off they could reclaim the green from Toyota.

Honda CR-Z hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: Honda’s well of fun little sports cars runs deep and the CR-Z clearly brings up memories of the light and fantastic (and fuel-sippin’) CRX hatchback. Add a hybrid system and they might have found a new formula for the hatchback crowd.

Audi Q5 hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: Audi hasn’t been quick to debut hybrid systems in their vehicles, choosing mostly to stick to diesels. This Q5 could be their way of testing the water by putting their toe in the water.

BMW 7-series hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: BMW’s new 7-series hybrid should differentiate itself by providing extra oomph (442 lb-ft of torque will be on tap).

Buick “Baby Enclave”:
Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
Why It’s Great: If Buick is truly going to become a great American brand again, they need to start innovating. This system should use the same running gear as the 230-mpg Chevy Volt, making this new Buick an exciting one to watch.

Fisker Karma:
Powertrain: Plug-in electric with range-extender fuel engine
Why It’s Great: Arguably one of the most beautiful new designs on the road, the Karma should do for the nascent Fisker brand what all great cars do: garner maximum attention. That the Karma will be one of the first plug-in electric vehicles available on the market, it should have about a year on its own before the major manufacturers start competing with it head on.

Honda Fit hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: The Fit could become one of the cheapest hybrids on the market today, creating a wave of new hybrid owners. Right now the cheapest hybrid on the market is the Fit’s older brother, the Honda Insight, but at about $20,000 that is still out of reach for many buyers.

Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: With a 3.5-liter V6 a trusy battery pack, the ML450 hybrid can go 1.8 miles or up to 34 mph on battery power alone (take that, 2010 Prius).

Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid :
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: At 29 miles per gallon combined, the S400 can boast about more than just its Mercedes-Benz badge on its hood.

Nissan 370Z hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: A hybrid sports car? Isn’t this blasphemy? Well, in some circles it just might be; in others, not so much. The idea of a 370Z hybrid is something along the lines of pure speculation at this point, but we do know Nissan and Infiniti are working on their own hybrid system and internal plans continue to look into its use on the famous Z sports car.

Nissan Leaf:
Powertrain: Plug-in electric
Why It’s Great: Nissan claims the Leaf will have a fuel equivalent of 367 miles per gallon. That’s not a typo. For now, though, the Leaf is still just a prototype. Expect it to come to market in a year or so in limited markets, mostly in the west.

Porsche Cayenne hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: Porsche has big plans for its big truck and it’s no secret that many of its buyers have interest in hybrid powertrains (and, no doubt, the money to pay for such a luxury). Expect the Cayenne hybrid to carry a premium price tag and something near 25 MPG.

Porsche Panamera hybrid:
Powertrain: Hybrid
Why It’s Great: Porsche is now making a sedan called the Panamera.  Since luxury sedan buyers now expect hybrids as part of an options package, Porsche will feature a parallel hybrid system (meaning it can drive under electric power, gasoline power, or both), meaning it will travel on electric power up to 70 miles per hour.

Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid :
Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
Why It’s Great: A Prius is already a hybrid that gets 50 mpg, but Toyota is readying a plug-in hybrid version of the car, making it even more efficient. Toyota says that plug-in hybrid versions of its Prius hatchback are veraging 65 miles per gallon in real-world testing.

Volvo V70 hybrid:
Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid
Why It’s Great:  The V70 has long been a Volvo classic (think of old 240 Volvo station wagons from the 80s and 90s) and the company’s first hybrid system makes sense to launch here first.

* Reference Autochannel.com

Porsche Adds New Panamera Models to Already Successful Collection

 Announced Today: The addition of two new Panamera Models to Porsches’ collection.
Porsche just released it just three months after successfully launching the first four-door Gran Turismo in three V8 designs: the Panamera S, the Panamera 4S and the Panamera Turbo. The Panamera and Panamera 4, the model line’s new versions, can be found in most Porsche Dealerships and of course here at L.A. Car Connection by June 2010. Both feature a brand-new 3.6-liter V6 with Direct Fuel Injection (DFI) developing 300 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Panamera spreads its power to the road by its newly designed rear wheels, while the Panamera 4 comes standard with active all-wheel drive. Both exquisitely built. The Panamera and Panamera 4 are examples of the Porsche Intelligent Performance development strategy. With more and more people going “green” these models are equipped with the PDK gearbox and the Auto Start Stop function. Porsche anticipates these new models to be significantly more fuel efficient than their normally aspirated V8 siblings. Like the proven V8 models, both the Panamera and the Panamera 4, as genuine Gran Turismos, combine a sporting character with the high standard of comfort and everyday driving traits. This provides a wide range of suspension qualities and features, with a high level of motoring comfort on the one hand and extremely sporting driving dynamics on the other. Both models will be making their world debut at the Beijing Motor Show on April 23, 2010. The Panamera and Panamera 4 MSRPs are $74,400 and $78,900, respectively. Since its U.S. introduction in October 2009, the Panamera has received numerous awards and recognition. The Panamera Turbo was named Playboy Magazine’s 2010 Car of the Year.

Can Your Car Last 1,000,000 Miles ?

When it comes to making a vehicle last — I mean truly last — Irv Gordon has set the standard. The retired science teacher paid $4,150 for his 1966 Volvo P1800 when it was new (at that time it was almost as much as his annual salary as a science teacher), and over the years he’s put 2.7 million miles on the car.
Gordon said that he spends less than $1,000 on vehicle maintenance and repair each year–and that’s averaged out to include the two engine rebuilds he’s had done over the 40-plus years of ownership.
Today a million miles, or even 500,000 miles, is still extremely unusual for a vehicle. But nowadays, passing the 200,000-mile mark is no longer the rare occasion it once was.

Consumer Reports, through its annual questionnaire, has found that thousands of people have gone over 200,000 miles in their original vehicles without catastrophic failures or major repairs. If a vehicle is very cheap to maintain and repair, it might be a good choice to keep to high miles even if it’s not a standout for reliability.

Read the Owner’s Manual!  – When people ask Irv Gordon–the guy with the 2.7-million-mile car–what they should do to follow his example, he has some surprisingly simple advice. “I always tell people the first thing to do is read the owner’s manual,” he said. Gordon, other experts, and reports from high-mileage drivers all emphasize that you shouldn’t cut any corners on routine maintenance. Diligent maintenance can make “profound differences,” according to Dillon, in how long your vehicle lasts. In addition to the maintenance required by the manufacturer, he recommends regular flushing of critical fluids such as for the transmission, brakes, and power steering. Generally you don’t need to maintain it more often than the owner’s manual specifies,” assessed Kahn from his own experience. But he did emphasize the importance of being pre-emptive with some repair or maintenance items, ie the timing belt.

Be Proactive And Pre-Emptive -  Repairing preemptively — replacing belts and hoses long before they’re in danger of failing–and never ignoring new noises or vibrations, might be the best tip of all. It’s abundantly clear that the most successful high-mileage owners are those who understand the cost-effectiveness and importance of addressing the small problem before it becomes a larger one.

Passionate Penny-Pinching  – And that leads to a final, and especially important, point: After all these years, Gordon still really likes his little Volvo coupe. Typically, owners of high-mileage vehicles still like them — or at the very least the competitive aspect of seeing how far they can get without problems.
In 2007, Consumer Reports projected — figuring in depreciation, maintenance, repairs, finance costs, fees, and insurance — that drivers could save more than $20,000, typically, by keeping a new vehicle for 15 years and 225,000 miles versus getting a new one every five years.

Hyundai Recalling 65,000 Cars

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Hyundai Motor America announced a recall of the certain Hyundai Azera sedans made between 2005 and 2008 (model years 2006-2009) for problems with Corvette models made between 2005 and 2007 last week for problems with the vehicles seat belt.

The report, specific only to the Azera model at this point, concerns the way that the seat belt tension sensor may withstand damage that could potentially create a problem with air bag deployment.

NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) says the following:

“Hyundai is recalling certain model year 2006 through 2009 Azera vehicles manufactured from September 27, 2005 through October 1, 2008. The wiring harness for the right front seat belt tension sensor may sustain damange after repeated use of the seat belt. If the seat belt tension sensor wiring becomes damaged the air bag will not deploy in the event of a crash, necessitating front air bag deployment.”
In a worst-case scenario, air bag failure can occur.
Hyundai is expected to begin announcing the recall this month, while the actual recall modifications will take place in February.