Porsche performance speaks for itself and can now be even sportier with aerodynamic, exterior upgrades from JE Design, a German car tuning company.

Moving the car in a sporty direction, with a newly designed front skirt, and rear spoiler, the Porsche Panamera looks more like a sports vehicle, and increases speed with the changes.

Altered States

Modifications on the power increase it to 300 BHP (Panamera Diesel) or 600 BHP (Panamera Turbo). JE Design Alterations include a front skirt design that optimizes intercooler air in-flow along with a fixed spoiler, replacing the extendable rear spoiler and with a complete rear skirt, with central air outlet, and diffuser.

Aiding in the handling of this soon to be classic is an electronically-adjusted, pneumatic air suspension system, which lowers the car’s chassis by 20 to 30 mm. Not to mention the 22″ alloy rims using Pandora design.

Daytime driving lights, with blinking LEDs have been integrated into the double-bar grill.

Performance

The Panamera, with its 4.8 liter, V8 twin, turbo engine guarantees Porsche performance. It has a seven-speed PDK, which is standard in all models. In addition it has Porsche Traction Management (PTM), Automatic Brake Differential (ABD), Anti-Slip Regulation (ASR), and Direct Fuel Injection (DFI).

It includes Auto Start and Stop functionality, and VarioCam Plus, resulting in instant acceleration, and a smoother driving experience.

The fixed spoiler takes the Panamera in a sportier direction, along with its rear skirt, which has a removable covering integrated, for towing purposes. The Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM) is retained, along with its three programs: Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus.

Turbo or Diesel

Power packages for the Panamera Diesel and Turbo are also available. The diesel accelerates from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph. The Panamera Turbo, using the JE Design control unit can accelerate from 0-60 mph in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 188 mph.

Loaded Interior

The interior of the Porsche Panamera is roomy, and can be customized to be sporty, luxurious, or both. Some of the features include seating for four on smooth-finish leather, with seat warmer and controls. It also has an elevated center console for front and rear passengers along with fully electric seats, with integrated headrests.

Passenger and driver get pampered not just by simply sitting in one of these cars, if you like music, you’ll enjoy the Burmester and Bose Surround Sound Systems. You take your work on the road, the Porsche Communication Management (PCM) system and the Mobile phone / Bluetooth connections allow you easy access to the rest of the world.

More

All of these extras are helped by a controlled ambient atmosphere aided by Climate control and Tinted, heat-insulated glass. Not to forget the driver, this 2012 JE Design Porsche Panamera has Park Assist and Reversing Camera, Lane Change Assist, and
Adaptive Cruise Control.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: 4 Door Sedan	Base Price: $136,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 195.6 in. (496.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 114.9 in. (291.8 cm)
Height: 55.8 in. (141.7 cm)	Width: 76 in. (193 cm)
Curb Weight: 3880 lbs (1760 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 4.8 Liter
Horsepower: 600 HP	Max RPM: NA
Torque: 627 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed Auto/Manual
0-60 mph: 3.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 188 mph (302 km/h)

The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid is designed to help drivers save money on the cost of gas. It has a lot of updated features that make driving a unique experience.

Performance

The estimated MPG in the city is 35 and on the highway is 40. The tank capacity is 17.2 gallons and the voltage of the battery is 270. The power output of the battery is 1.4kWh and is lithium polymer.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $25,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.2 gallons (65L)	MPG: 35 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.7 in. (484.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.4 in. (280.4 cm)
Height: 57.3 in. (145.5 cm)	Width: 72.1 in. (183.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3490 lbs (1583 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (12.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 9.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L 4 Cylinder Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 13.0: 1
Horsepower: 206 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 195 lbft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Engine

The engine is a 2.4 L, 4-cylinder hybrid system. It has 4 valves per cylinder and 206 hp @ 6,000 rpm. The transmission is a 6-speed electronic Sportmatic overdrive.

Exterior

The overall design of the Optima sedan is sleek and compact. It comes with 16″ alloy wheels and a unique front grille design. The front is sculpted to flow nicely with the small spoiler on the back. The chrome door handles accent the car well and the projection headlights make for easier driving. The side mirrors have LED turn signals on them for added protection when turning. These mirrors are also heated, which means outside conditions won’t affect clarity while driving.

Interior

The inside of the Kia Optima Hybrid is equipped with an AM/FM/MP3 audio system that will also play Sirius XM. There are 6-speakers that come standard for the best sound possible. Bluetooth is compatible for anyone how has it and there are input jacks for USBs.

Starting the car is done with a simple push of a button because this vehicle comes with a smart key. The steering wheel has the audio controls mounted right on them for easy and safe listening while driving.

The Eco Minder is an indicator that alerts that driver when they reach the best fuel economy. All door locks are powered and the windows are power as well. The cooling glove box is perhaps one of the most unique features since it chills items that are inside.

Rear reading lamps provide a dim light for rear passengers who need added visibility. There are map and bottle pockets in both the front and the back along with armrests.

Safety & Reliability

The full-length side curtain airbags are standard and will come out when a passenger seat belt is used during a collision. There are monitors throughout the car that will sense a collision and the severity of the impact.

This will control how much the airbags inflate so the driver and passengers are less likely to sustain injuries. The seat belts in the front have pre-tensioners on them for a secure fit. These will tighten if there is a collision to help prevent more injuries from happening. Front active headrests will move forward to help prevent injury during rear collisions.

Pros & Cons

This car offers a smooth and quiet ride and noise isn’t much of an issue. There are enough airbags to protect everyone inside, including small children in car seats. Individuals who want to save on gas will appreciate being in electric-only mode as long as they don’t go over 65 mph. The price tag on this particular vehicle is also a lot cheaper than similar models.

One of the downsides of this car is that it’s only available in one option package. The outside design might not be appealing for drivers who like a sporty type of car. It’s also noted that the computer controls and hybrid system don’t always communicate in the ways that they should.

Competition

The Hybrid segment has grown, the Optima Hybrid is joined by the Toyota Camry Hybrid (MSRP $25,990; 43 city / 39 hwy), Ford Fusion Hybrid (MSRP $28,775; 41 city / 36 hwy), and the Honda Accord (MSRP $25,205; 23 city / 34 hwy).

What others say:

“The 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid remains primarily unchanged following its introduction in 2011. Kia’s first hybrid vehicle for the U.S. market, the Optima Hybrid can be driven in full-electric mode at speeds up to 62 mph or in combined gas-electric mode at any speed.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

The 2012 Italdesign Giugiaro Brivido Concept is the new addition of Giugiaro to the world of supercars.

Giorgato Giugiaro had a vision of creating a GT that has enough room for passengers and one that will be shared to people who above all love cars.

This new car has been featured at the Geneva International Motor Show and designer Giugiaro could have not been more proud with the birth of this new car.

Performance

This GT boasts of high speed capability reaching 100 kilometers per hour in just 5.8 seconds. It can also reach a top speed of 171 miles per hour without worrying about comfort inside the car. This feat was achieved by the company through careful research in the production of the Brivido Concept in Moncalieri.

Exterior

The exterior of the Brivido Concept is made up of carbon fiber, aluminum and glass. The body of this beautiful car has been painted with Xirallic pearl luster red.

This gives the Giugiaro Brivido a beautiful aerodynamic design that will not only bring beauty but a grand functionality in the world of Gran Turismo.

The windows of the car together with the roof and doors form a wonderful dome light that provides natural light to enter the interior. This design gives the car that much needed space, comfort and convenience.

Interior

Aside from the beauty of the interior and exterior of the car, Giugiaro added the Human Machine Interface. They were able to develop a docking system for the ever-handy iPad which can be hidden from the view with a simple hand gesture.

A simple gesture will also bring the gadget back in view to allow minimal interaction for the time being.

The Volkswagen Group Electronic Research Lab also made sure that the 2012 Italdesign Giugiaro Brivido Concept gives drivers and passengers the power to control the temperature and comfort in the car using a touch screen interface. This car will surely usher people to the new age of GT cars of the future.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid

Base Price: NA

Performance

Engine: 3.0 Liter	Horsepower: 360 HP
Torque: NA	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 171 mph (275 km/h)

The 2012 Kia Optima has a lot of new features that come standard. From the engine to the exterior, this car has been getting a lot of good reviews from car experts and drivers.

Performance

The estimated miles per gallon for the city is 24 on the LX model, 24 with the EX model and 22 with both the SX and SXL models. The tank capacity for all is 18.5 gallons.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $19,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.7 in. (484.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.4 in. (280.4 cm)
Height: 57.3 in. (145.5 cm)	Width: 72.1 in. (183.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3223 lbs (1462 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.3 in. (13.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L Inline 4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.3: 1
Horsepower: 200 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 186 lbft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:EX 2.4L	MSRP: $23,200; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:EX Turbo 2.0L	MSRP: $25,100; MPG: 22 city / 34 hwy
Option:Hybrid	MSRP: $25,700; MPG: 35 city / 40 hwy
Option:SX 2.0L	MSRP: $26,500; MPG: 22 city / 34 hwy

Engine

The engine is a standard 16 valve 2.4L. Horsepower can reach 200 at 6,300 rpm. The torque is 186lb-ft at 4,250 rpm. The system runs on fuel and the transmission is a 6-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic overdrive.

Exterior

16″ tires with alloy wheels come standard with the basic LX version of the Optima. Performance dampers make the car more responsive and come included on all models. This car also comes standard with a chrome front grille; chrome door handles and chrome door molding. Front fog lights are installed for safer driving during low visibility.

Keeping with the chrome theme, the exhaust tip is chrome and the outside mirrors are on some of the models. The side mirrors are heated to make driving in all conditions safe and they have LED turn signals on them. Solar glass is on the Optima to reduce heat and glare inside the cab.

Interior

Eight Infinity speakers are installed throughout this car. These will play Sirius XM Satellite Radio as well as MP3s and the regular radio. The car comes with a smart key and push button start in all models, except for the LX.

The audio controls are mounted on the wheel next to the cruise control button to make adjusting songs easier. The active eco system indicator inside the Optima lets drivers know when they are reaching the best fuel economy possible. Air conditioning and a cooled glove box are standard for keeping the interior comfortable. This also comes with keyless entry, panic alarms, trip computer and overhead sunglass holder.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Optima comes with dual front advanced airbags, dual front seat-mounted side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In addition to this, there are seat belts for all seats that have pre-tensioners on them.

The brakes are ABS with 4-wheel discs and electronic stability control comes standard. The brake-assist system allows sufficient force during emergency situations. The traction control system senses when wheels are spinning and will transfer power to them to provide more traction during those situations.

Pros

• The engine is powerful and comes with an optional turbocharged enhancement.
• Bluetooth and USB ports also come standard to make it easier to use all types of technology.
• The safety scores on this vehicle are extremely high and have won it awards.
• The interior is more spacious than other similar vehicles.
• Sporty drivers like the way it handles on windy roads.

Cons

• Some drivers say handling can be a little stiff.
• The trunk doesn’t have that much space inside of it.
• Bold styling isn’t right for some drivers.

Competition

Most drivers like this car because it is small, compact but still spacious inside. It’s also extremely powerful and affordable, which is something that is hard to find with other makes and models.

There are several alternatives to look at in addition to the Optima, these include the Honda Accord (MSRP $22,280; 23 city / 34 hwy), Ford Fusion (MSRP $22,975; 23 city / 33 hwy), and the Toyota Camry (MSRP $22,600; 25 city / 35 hwy).

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Kia Optima has strong yet economical powertrains and confident handling—although the Hybrid could use some smoothing-over.”Car Connection

“The Optima is Kia’s version of the Hyundai Sonata, and falls short of its corporate cousin in ride comfort, braking, and fuel economy. It has responsive and very secure handling, but the ride is borderline stiff and road noise is noticeable.”MSN AutoConsumerReports

“The 2012 Kia Optima sedan is one of the sportiest, most stylish midsize sedans out there. We’d even put it up against the styling of some $40,000 European luxury brands.”KBB

“Powerful and fuel-efficient engines; good ride/handling balance; handsome cabin; copious features; top crash scores; impressive value; lengthy warranty. Can be tight on headroom; disappointing real-world fuel economy and driving experience for hybrid; numb steering.”Edmunds

The 2012 Nissan Leaf is one the newest Upscale Small electric cars from the company. With its unique exterior and standard features, many users praise the Leaf as one of the best electric varieties when it comes to acceleration and braking, feeling almost like it was gasoline powered.

The car’s drawbacks, however, can be recognized in the impractical interior design as well as its less than stellar capabilities in range.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Hatchback	Base Price: $35,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: NA	MPG: 106 city / 92 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 175 in. (444.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 61 in. (154.9 cm)	Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)
Curb Weight: 3385 lbs (1535 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.3 in. (16 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: Electric	Battery Pack: 360V Li Ion
Horsepower: 107 HP	Torque: 207 lb-ft
Drive: FWD	Transmission: 1-Speed Auto

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Leaf SL

MSRP: $37,250; MPG: 106 city / 92 hwy

Engine

This is Nissan’s only electric car that comes in both SL and SV trims. Those accustomed to the conventional gasoline powered vehicles are pleasantly surprised as to how similar the accelerating and braking mechanics of the Leaf are with gasoline models.

The car boasts an output of 107 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque produced by the 80-kW electric motor. It is equipped with a 24 kWh lithium-ion battery. Since there is no gasoline engine, the Leaf does not come with the conventional transmission scheme.

Performance

Charging of the Leaf’s batteries can be done with any standard home outlet. The Leaf can also be installed with a quick charging station but will require additional costs for purchase and installation. At an average, a 220 volt outlet can charge the Leaf fully for 7 hours, while the 110 volt outlet can fully charge the car for 20 hours. With the quick charge station, charging to 80 percent takes only half an hour.

The average range or distance the Leaf can travel before the battery drains is 73 miles. However, this value can be significantly affected by on board weight, driving profile as well as environmental conditions. The Leaf also comes with a regenerative brake function which captures the friction created to slightly recharge the battery.

Exterior

The Nissan Leaf possesses a distinctive look and feel. The company’s goal was to create an iconic look that would set the trend in popularizing electric car technology. The exterior is designed to fit and cover the recharging ports and places headlines strategically to decrease aerodynamic drag by channeling air along the sides.

Interior

The interior was designed with a futuristic theme in mind. While the car comes with a host of technological functionalities that are uncommon for upscale small cars, the presence of the battery further impedes on the small back seat area which is already a known issue even with conventional models.

Though the Leaf can seat five, the back area provides very little room for adult passengers. Cargo space is also quite limited due to the presence of the battery.

Safety & Reliability

The car scored “Good” in all crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and scored a five star average with the federal government.

The leaf comes with the standard 6 airbags, traction control and anti-lock brake system commonly seen in this vehicle type. J.D. Power gave the Leaf a score of 3 out of 5 in terms of Predicted reliability.

Pros

• Accelerating and Braking has the same feel as that of conventional gasoline cars
• The Regenerative Brake System is smoothly implemented
• Unique Exterior Design
• Excellent Safety Testing Performance
• Several Standard Interior Features
• Complete with Standard Safety Features

Cons

• Cramped Back seat
• Limited Cargo Area
• Charging could take very long without Quick Charge Station
• Highly Variable Range

The electric car technology is slowly being introduced as an alternative to the gasoline powered engine. The 2012 Nissan Leaf is Nissan’s venture into this new age tech.

Anyone looking for a dependable eco friendly car may find the Leaf’s performance and features to be its winning point against its competitors in this slowly growing market in automotive technologies.

Competition

The Chevrolet Volt (MSRP $39,145; 95 city / 93 hwy), Toyota Prius (MSRP $32,000), and the Honda Insight (MSRP $23,690; 41 city / 44 hwy) are some of the other hybrids available in the market.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Nissan Leaf is, quite simply, the first battery electric vehicle built in volume by any major carmaker; if you can get comfortable with its range of 70 to 100 miles, it’s the greenest car you can buy.”Car Connection

“No more gas stations; spacious, quiet cabin; ample features; snappy acceleration; intelligent navigation system. Limited cruising range; limited recharging points; home charger is a necessity; small trunk for a hatchback.”Edmunds