2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible

If you want the best, look no further than the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible.

Connoisseurs of street machines will be enthralled with this convertible. It truly lives up to the name on the package and represents everything that Shelby stood for when building their vehicles.

Ford has redesigned the SVT Cobra to the point that this surpasses all others with the Shelby Performance package offered over the last 20 years. It is difficult to get the feel of this vehicle without seeing all that it offers however you will be left breathless when you see it.

Performance

This twentieth anniversary model has come a long way from the days of 235 HP 5.0L engines as this baby packs a spectacular 650 horsepower, leaving the competition in the dust. Do not let the new Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible scare you away.

This super charged 5.8 liter ragtop is as powerful as the hard top coupe and considering the lighter weight, it exceeds all expectations when it comes to performance and handling.

Handling

Right off the bat you will notice adjustable dampers that allow for exceptional performance in combination by tuning the chassis with different modes available at the touch of a button. Whether the road is smooth or rough, you are assured that it will handle with pure excellence.

More

This model has the most powerful engine in its class as well as 20 years of advances in engineering that have finally led to the perfect SVT Cobra. From its muscle car looks to perfect handling and performance, the 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Convertible is one to consider and easily the foundation for a new generation of sports cars and a collectible for any muscle car enthusiast.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $59,200.00
Dimensions
Length: 188.2 in. (478 cm) Wheel Base: 107.1 in. (272 cm)
Height: 55.4 in. (140.7 cm) Width: 73.9 in. (187.7 cm)
Curb Weight: NA Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 9.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: Supercharged 4V Ti-VCT V-8 Displacement: 5.8 Liter
Horsepower: 650 HP Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 600 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 6 -Speed Manual Tremec
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds 1/4 Mile: 11.5 seconds

May 14, 2012 at 4:11 am | 1 comment

2012 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon

In the upscale, midsize car category, the 2012 Cadillac Sport Wagon can accommodate the most active of lifestyles. It offers a sportier design and performance, with a luxurious cabin, and seating for five.

The adaptable features allow room for cargo, yet look like a sports vehicle. The technology and design, unique to Cadillac, make the Sport Wagon safe, reliable, comfortable to drive. Standard interior features are not lacking, and the changes in engineering make it fuel efficient, and a pleasure to drive.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Luxury Wagon Base Price: $39,015.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68l) MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 192 in. (487.6 cm) Wheel Base: 113.4 in. (288 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 4026 lbs (1826 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 25 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Direct Injection V6 VVT RWD Displacement: 3.0 Liter
Horsepower: 270 HP Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 223 lb-ft @ 5700 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Luxury MSRP: $42,150; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Performance MSRP: $44,190; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:Premium MSRP: $49,750; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

Engine Performance

There is a choice of the either the standard 3.0 liter, or 3.6 liter, direct injection V6 engine, which provide 270 and 318 horsepower respectively. The estimated fuel economy is 18 miles per gallon in the city, and 26 miles per gallon on the highway.

Cadillac’s short, long arm (SLA) suspension technology offers adjustability, which helps to control the wheel movement better than the traditional strut. The Sport Wagon is on a balanced front-to-rear platform for a combination of driving responsiveness, and comfort.

The wagon has 6-speed Interactive Adaptive Automatic Transmission with overdrive, and a floor-mounted shifter. Rear-wheel drive comes standard, but is also optional. With continuously variable valve timing, a premium engine, all-wheel drive (AWD) availability and stabiliTrak, the wagon has all-weather capability, enhanced handling and safety.

Exterior

The exterior of the Sport Wagon is a seamless design, using integrated roof nails, as opposed to traditional bars. The wagon comes in three body styles, Standard, Performance, and Premium. There are four trim levels offered which are Standard, Luxury, Performance, and Premium. Exterior colors are offered in Opulent Blue, Black Diamond, and Mocha Steel.

The Adaptive Forward Lighting sensors with High-Intensity Discharge (HID), provide the wagon headlights which illuminate your direction of travel by swiveling 15 degrees, making it easier to see your path of driving. In the rear, the sculpted LED taillights extend along the tailgate. The 17-inch aluminum wheels, and heated, power-adjustable outside mirrors, are other features which give the edgy look, a luxurious look as well.

Interior

The leather interior and detailed dashboard instruments look classy with the Ambient Interior Lighting provided. A light pipe is meticulously fitted under the wood trim on the dash, and LED spotlights under the door handles, foot wells, and overhead console, give the interior a very serene atmosphere. The control center on the dash includes a Glide-up navigation system, which features voice guidance.

Features

The 8-inch LCD touch screen includes 3-D color imaging with OnStar, iPod connectivity, hard drive for music storage, Bose 5.1 Surround Sound, Bluetooth, Pause and Play radio, and dual-zone climate control. A panoramic view of the wagon’s path is projected on the rearview mirror, or navigation system screen when in reverse, and ultrasonic rear parking assist with audible warning is also available.

Spacious

The rear seats fold flat, which will create more than 58 cubic feet of cargo room, and the floor rails are equipped with attachment points with tie-downs, to prevent cargo from sliding. There is under-floor cargo space, as well as modular storage, in order to organize, and conceal cargo from sight. The liftgate is power-operated and programmable for any height, to avoid hitting overhead objects, such as garage obstacles.

Safety

StabiliTrak is standard, as well as front, rear, and side airbags. Side-guard door beams reinforce the body of the wagon as well. This wagon can handle daily commutes with ease, and is equipped for the worst weather scenarios. Cadillac has transferred the performance and handling of the CTS Sedan, to a sport wagon.

Reliability

To back up their promise of reliability, they offer a basic warranty of 50,000 miles, or 48 months, and drivetrain warranty of 100,000 miles, or 60 months. They also offer corrosion warranty of 50,000 miles, or 72 months, all along with roadside assist.

Pros & Cons

The 2012 Sport Wagon offers ample power, versatility, performance, four years of free maintenance, an upscale interior, sport handling, and luxuriously-spacious interior, all in one sleek wagon. The rivals in this category are the Infiniti G, BMW 3-Series, and Acura TL. These models are very much the same standard models, with different exterior looks. The BMW may exceed in performance, but at a cost.

Two unfavorable comments pertain to the rather narrow trunk opening, and poor rear visibility. Otherwise, the Cadillac wagon has ample power and unrivaled versatility. If you are on the go quite often with cargo, and are looking for fuel economy, safety, and luxury to ride in, the 2012 Cadillac Sport Wagon is a very good option.

Competition

There is only one other make that the CTS Wagon can be compared to in terms of price and features, the Mercedes Benz E Class Wagon, (MSRP $57,150; 19 city / 27 hwy).

Overall Rating
82 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 CTS Sport Wagon receives a lighter, more powerful version of its 3.6-liter V-6 engine…”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The handsome 2012 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon is not just an alternative to other wagons but also an enticing choice for those considering compact luxury crossovers.”Edmunds

May 13, 2012 at 2:51 pm | 1 comment

2012 BMW 5-Series Hybrid

The 2012 BMW 5-Series Hybrid falls almost at the bottom of the list of large luxury cars. It is clear that it outperforms the BMW 535i but car shoppers do not seem to be happy about its costly base price.

There are hybrid cars that are stronger and more frugal. Although the 5-Series Hybrid promises better fuel economy and engine performance, it is reasonable for a car shopper to go home with one of this car’s rivals.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan Base Price: $60,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L) MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 193.1 in. (490.4 cm) Wheel Base: 116.9 in. (296.9 cm)
Height: 57.6 in. (146.3 cm) Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4365 lbs (1980 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 3.0L Inline 6 Hybrid DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 335 HP Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: NA Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Engine

The 5 Series Hybrid is equipped with a 6-cylinder 3.0 liter turbocharged engine paired with an electric motor. Details on how many horses and how much Newton meters the gas engine alone can produce are yet to be announced.

Together, the electric motor and the gasoline engine deliver 335 horsepower. This combination is matched to an automatic 8-speed transmission.

Performance

The 2012 5 Series Hybrid has adequate power that is refined. The transition from the gas engine to the electric engine is incredibly smooth. The transmission is responsive and the brakes feel natural.

The 5 Series Hybrid is equipped with Driving Dynamics Control. Using this feature, drivers can choose between four driving modes depending on the current driving situation. The electronic power steering assistance seems too much for other drivers who want to feel more of the road.

Exterior

The 5 Series Hybrid looks slick with its fine lines smoothly connecting the edge of the shapely headlights to the edge of the rear lights. It has the BMW trademark grille and the strikingly handsome headlights just like the BMW 5 Series.

Interior

The 5 Series Hybrid has the same interior as its non-hybrid sibling. The cabin is upscale and comfortable and the navigation system is useful. The seats are comfortable and spacious, even adults who are seated in the back seat will find their place comfortable. Drivers can easily find a comfortable driving position because of its excellent adjustability.

Safety

The Hybrid 5 Series is yet to be tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the federal government. Nevertheless, we can use the details for the gas-only 5 Series that did well in tests from the same institutions.

The 5 Series is a Top Safety Pick for the IIHS for scoring “good” in all crash tests. The federal government, on the other hand, gave the 5 Series Hybrid 5 out of 5 stars as its overall score.

Reliability

The 5 Series Hybrid comes with a 4-year standard warranty. The first schedule maintenance is free of charge. BMW also offers 24 hour road assistance for four years as well as unlimited corrosion and perforation warranty that lasts for 12 years.

Pros

The 5 Series Hybrid has a capable engine and excellent handling. BMW put a lot of thought into the transition from gas to electric engine. The cabin of the Hybrid 5 Series is spacious and luxurious.

The interior is made of quality materials and there are useful internal features such as the navigation. The brakes are one of the best in its class.

Cons

The hybrid 5 Series has a high base price. The battery limits trunk space.

The 2012 BMW 5 Series Hybrid offers a great package – perhaps one of the best packages in its class but its high base price may turn off potential buyers.

The Tesla S (MSRP $57,400; 88 city / 90 hwy) which of course is powered completely by electricity, and the Lexus GS 450h (MSRP $58,950; 29 city / 34 hwy) are two other vehicles that may be compared with the ActiveHybrid 5-Series.

What others say:

“The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 5 offers no significant fuel economy or acceleration benefit versus a 535i and costs significantly more. You’d be better off gluing a “Hybrid” badge onto a regular 5 Series.”Edmunds

May 13, 2012 at 11:08 am | No comment

2013 Audi TT RS Plus

With the up and coming release of the 2013 Audi TT RS Plus, car lovers know by now that their driving experience will never be the same. Early this year, we have had a glimpse of what the new Audi TT RS Plus has to offer: dynamics, power, and speed.

Performance

The new Audi TT RS Plus is a small sports car that comes in Roadster and Coupe versions. Its five-cylinder turbocharged engine that is capable of power boost delivers 360 horsepower, enough power to make the car reach a maximum speed of 174 mph (280 km/h).

The power comes from its 2.5 L TFSI engine, a turbocharged direct injection unit that brings 20 more horsepower than the previous or current model. In line with it, the new unit delivers a torque of 343 ft-lb, 11 ft-lbs more powerful than the previous or current model.

Optimum Acceleration

Prospective owners can choose between a 7-speed S-tronic that makes gear shifting as fast as lightning or the six speed manual transmission. A launch control function is integrated into the dual clutch transmission thus optimizing acceleration from a standing start.

The Coupe and the Roadster can run from 0 to 60 mph in a period of 4 seconds. As for fuel consumption, both the Coupe and Roadster averages 27 mpg. Both statistics are for the Audi TT RS Plus with S-tronic transmission.

Braking

To balance the performance of the car, a high performance brake system is introduced. In the front axle, cross drilled discs combined with four-piston fixed calipers are installed. Nineteen inch cast wheels are beautifully fitted to the car. Customers have the option to use the Audi magnetic system drive or the adaptive damping system.

Having the power and the ultra-sporty look, the 2013 Audi TT RS Plus will surely give a new driving experience a driver has never known before.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sports Base Price: $56,580.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60 liters) Miles Per Gallon: NA
Dimensions
Length: 165.3 in. (419.8 cm) Wheel Base: 97.2 in. (246.8 cm)
Height: 53 in. (134.2 cm) Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 3306 lbs (1500 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: Turbocharged DOHC Inline 5 Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 360 HP Max RPM: 5500-6700 RPM
Torque: 343 lb-ft @ 1650-5400 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds Maximum Speed: 174 mph (280 km/h)

May 13, 2012 at 3:47 am | 1 comment

2012 Morgan Aero Coupe

The 2012 Morgan Aero Coupe was inspired by the GT3 Aero which won many races in its time.

The Morgan Aero Coupe is a new supercar that has been specially designed to be comfortable for long distance driving and touring.

Styling & Interior

It is a 2 seater sports car with an enclosed cockpit with comfortable interiors and especially a large boot to carry luggage securely during long-distance driving. The cockpit has a sensational design that lets one enjoy the high speeds over the long bonnet.

The ash hardwood covers the doors and the surface surrounding the cockpit. There is exquisite double stitch leather work along with suede that gives a sporty and luxurious look to the interiors and the controls. The reclining seats are comfortable and give the driver a panoramic view of the car, the controls, and the road ahead.

The standard audio system that comes along with the car has a crisp sound. The Morgan Aero Coupe however can be personally customized according to individual preferences.

Engine & Performance

In terms of performance the Morgan Aero Coupe is a breeze to drive. The rear view mirror makes it very easy to reverse, park and maneuver. It comes equipped with a BMW V8, with either a 6 speed automatic or manual transmission that can be run in “Auto” or “Sport” modes and achieves a top speed of 170 mph with powerful acceleration that goes from 0-62 mph in a mere 4.5 seconds.

The fuel tank can hold 14.5 gallons (55) liters making it extremely suitable for long distance driving. It is able to achieve 16 mpg in city driving and 32 mpg highway on the manual and improves slightly on the automatic.

The car itself is made of completely from aluminum and weighs 2601 lbs (1175 kg) making it light and fast.

The 2012 Morgan Aero Coupe sets a new standard for long distance driving pleasure. Go ahead, give it a whirl.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 36 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 163.2 in. (414.7 cm) Wheel Base: NA
Height: 49 in. (124.8 cm) Width: 68.9 in. (175.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 2601 lbs (1180 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: BMW V8 Displacement: 4.8 Liter
Horsepower: 360 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 370 lb-ft Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds Maximum Speed: 170 mph (273 km/h)

May 12, 2012 at 2:53 pm | 1 comment

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