2012 Gumpert Apollo Enraged

The 2012 Gumpert Apollo Enraged is a fine car that is equipped with a supercharged 4.2 liter V8 engine.

Street Legal

This feature alone will surely bring a jaw-dropping experience for people who will see this car in motion. Hailing from Gumpert, one of the best car manufacturers around the world, the Apollo Enraged has been designed for street racing.

It was featured at the 82nd Geneva International Motor Show and it has since received a huge audience. The car’s brute thrust goes up to 780 horsepower which is definitely saying something.

The griffin is Gumpert’s mythical animal logo and is beautifully brandished in the car’s distinctive swing doors. This high speed car is street legal which basically means that the Apollo Enraged has everything that a car needs and nothing that this car can’t have.

Having a street legal car like the Gumpert Apollo does not mean it does not have any racing feature. It still adapts the same system and function just like Gumpert’s Apollo R. Pure German speed is Gumpert’s motto in the creation of this fantastic vehicle. A lot of people may have called it an extreme car but nevertheless it boasts of a grand time for people who live for speed.

Exterior & Interior

The sleek body of the Gumpert Apollo Enraged is also aerodynamic giving the car an optimum speed on the streets. The exterior body is a true work of art as it gleams day and night.

People will definitely take a second look as soon as this car hits the street. Comfort and style is also within the interior of the Apollo Enraged which gives everyone a convenient and safe ride throughout.

Acceleration

This limited edition car will definitely entice people who treasure cars and a fine work of art. The 2012 Gumpert Apollo Enraged will bring drivers from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 2.9 seconds and will sprint to 124 miles per hour in a matter of 8.7 seconds. A true feat achieved by this limited edition car from Gumpert.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Supercar Base Price: NA
Dimensions
Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm) Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 43.8 in. (111.4 cm) Width: 78.6 in. (199.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2590 lbs (1174 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: Supercharged V8 Displacement: 4.4 Liter
Horsepower: 780 HP Transmission: 6-Speed Sequential
0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds Maximum Speed: NA

April 22, 2012 at 8:07 pm | 2 comments

2012 Nissan NV

The 2012 Nissan NV is Nissan’s foray into the passenger and cargo van market. This large work van handles exceptionally well and is one of the new models in the vehicle type that has been dominated by Ford and Chevrolet in past decades.

Though it has a great interior, the NV lacks crucial features found in other models of this vehicle type.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Van Base Price: $25,050.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons (106L) MPG: NA
Dimensions
Length: 240.6 in. (611.1 cm) Wheel Base: 146.1 in. (371 cm)
Height: 84.9 in. (215.6 cm) Width: 79.9 in. (202.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 6697 lbs (3038 kg) Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Max Cargo Capacity: 120.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 24 Valve V6 DOHC Displacement: 4.0 Liter
Horsepower: 261 HP Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 281 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 7000 lbs (3175 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:NV2500 HD MSRP: $26,050; MPG: NA
Option:NV3500 HD MSRP: $28,650; MPG: NA
Option:NV Passenger MSRP: $31,690; MPG: NA

Engine

The NV is comparable to that of a full size pickup truck. The cargo van trims are equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine that makes 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. The 5.6-liter V8 engine that produces 317 horsepower and 385 pound-feet of torque is an option for specific trims.

The highest trim, the Passenger NV 3500 HD SL automatically comes with the V8. The V6 is relatively powerful but can be weighed down with heavy cargo. However, this is not a problem with the V8 engine.

Performance

Handling and braking for the NV is surprisingly fluid. Most users praise the easy steering and generally comfortable ride experienced while riding the car. Compared to its competitors, the NV can carry less weight and has a lower towing and hauling capacity, even with the V8 engine.

Exterior

The exterior design scheme adheres much to the distinctive visual appeal of most Nissan cars. What is most impressive about the NV is its interior. It is designed to be both functional and comfortable. Most owners may find that spending a work day in the van can be quite a pleasant experience.

Interior

While the cargo trim come with the expected 2 front seat design, the passenger varieties are built to seat 12. A quick upgrade can add a full lumbar support function as well as a multidirectional adjustable seat for the driver.

While the base trims of the NV lack some standard interior features, the higher trims come with the functionalities found in most modern cars. Everything from remote keyless entry, Bluetooth, backup camera and cruise control is installed on higher models of the NV.

The Nissan NV also comes with a small item storage compartment. Innovative storage space is a rarity in most cargo van builds but Nissan manages to integrate this well needed feature.

Safety & Reliability

Because the NV is a low volume commercial vehicle, any extensive safety testing by either the federal government or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not yet been done.

Nevertheless, the complete set of standard safety features, from multiple airbags, anti-lock brake systems and rear view camera as well a parking sensors guarantee a safe and secure ride.

One downside is the lack of side windows for cargo models which could negatively affect visibility. J.D. Power gave it 3 out of 5 rating for predicted reliability.

Pros

  • Fluid Handling and easy steering
  • Built with powerful V6 and V8 engines
  • Excellent interior design, banking on driver and passenger comfort
  • Complete with standard safety features
  • Innovative small storage features

Cons

  • Slightly lower towing and hauling capacity than most competitors
  • Complete standard interior features only available on high level trims
  • Lack of side windows on cargo models decrease visibility
  • No extensive safety testing done as of now

Anyone looking for a fully functional cargo or passenger van that boasts superb handling while maintaining comfort will find the 2012 Nissan NV to be an excellent deal despite the slight drawbacks it has against the established makers in the van cargo and passenger category.

Others

The Chevrolet Express (MSRP $32,130; 13 city / 17 hwy) and the GMC Savana (MSRP $28,940; 13 city / 17 hwy) are comparable to the NV Passenger Van.

What others say:

“The NV Passenger van features flexible seating configurations, standard curtain supplemental air bags for all four rows of passengers, standard headrests for all seating positions and integrated seat belts for all rear seating positions.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Nissan NV holds wide appeal to anyone that needs to move a lot of cargo or people, but must also mind the budget. V6 models are priced right, and the vast capability of the cargo van’s configurable cargo bay is staggering.”KBB

“Available high top; simple model and option structure; strong value proposition. No diesel option; hard plastic in armrest areas.”Edmunds

April 21, 2012 at 2:51 pm | No comment

2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S

The German Edo Competition Motor Sport GmbH has released a turbocharged Porsche that delivers truly competitive speeds: called the 2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S.

Their focus was on transforming the engine dynamics, while largely maintaining the original body and design of the Porsche.

Performance

The powerful 4.8 liter V8 engine has new twin turbochargers that greatly boost its strength up to 700 horsepower. The added capability of acceleration from 0-62 miles per hour within an incredible 3.5 seconds makes this 2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S even faster and more responsive than the stock car.

An impressive 649 pounds per foot of torque makes it possible for this 2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S to further accelerate from 0-124 miles per hour in only 11.4 seconds!

The top speed of this Porsche is 211 miles per hour, and is only limited by the incorporation of an electronic governor, making it quite possibly the fastest Porsche Panamera in existence.

The modified engine utilizes high-flow catalytic converters and a specialty stainless steel exhaust system with butterfly valves to support this extra power. The entire engine management system was approached in a whole new way, with new re-programming in order to maximize its potential.

Chassis & Exterior

The 2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S is lower than previous Porsche models by 30 millimeters, which resulted in a big improvement in aerodynamics, handling, and speed.

The unique 22 inch racing style wheels have rims with a sleek carbon-fiber look. The overall body of the car was already built purely for speed, so Edo Competition kept the simple, classic Porsche feel with ultra smooth shapes and surfaces throughout the design.

This racing quality coupe has a well-designed rear spoiler, as well as narrow racing-style tail lights.

Interior

The interior of the 2012 Edo Competition Porsche Panamera Turbo S was designed with high quality leather, replacing the standard factory trims used in older Porsches, so you can speed in style and comfort.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (99.9 liters) Miles Per Gallon: NA
Dimensions
Length: 195.6 in. (496.8 cm) Wheel Base: 114.9 in. (291.8 cm)
Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm) Width: 83.2 in. (211.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3968 lbs (1799 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Performance
Engine: Twin Turbo V8 Displacement: 4.8 Liter
Horsepower: 700 HP Max RPM: NA
Torque: 649 lb-ft Transmission: 7-Speed PDK
0-60 mph: 3.5 seconds Maximum Speed: 211 mph (339 km/h)

April 21, 2012 at 1:05 am | 1 comment

2012 Nissan Armada

The 2012 Nissan Armada is definitely not the apple of the eyes of the reviewers. In fact, it ranks low in the competition in its class, which gives even more reason to take a second look at it.

Every car manufacturer intends to make every edition better.

However, Nissan seems to have overlooked important aspects, such as passenger space and fuel economy.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $39,870.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons (106L) MPG: 13 city / 19 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 207.7 in. (527.5 cm) Wheel Base: 123.2 in. (312.9 cm)
Height: 77.2 in. (196 cm) Width: 79.3 in. (201.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 5251 lbs (2381 kg) Ground Clearance: 9.8 in. (24.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 20 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8 people
Performance
Engine: 32 Valve V8 DOHC Displacement: 5.6 Liter
Horsepower: 317 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 385 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 8200 lbs (3719 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Armada SL 4WD MSRP: $45,320; MPG: 13 city / 19 hwy
Option:Armada Platinum 4WD MSRP: $52,220; MPG: 13 city / 19 hwy

Engine

Under the hood, the 2012 Armada houses a V8 5.6 liter engine that delivers 317 horsepower and 385 ft of torque. The engine is paired with an automatic 5-speed transmission.

The muscle provided in the Armada is not the leader in its class. Nevertheless, it has enough to let you pass and tow stuff like any other SUV in the competition. The new 2-wheel drive Armada, according to the EPA, has a fuel efficiency rating of 19 mpg for highway and 13 mpg for city driving. This statistics may disappoint prospective Armada owners.

Performance

In city driving, the powerful V8 can deliver strong take offs. The throttle just seems to be a little bit more sensitive than others in its class. But after driving the Armada for minutes, you will surely get the hang of it.

It accelerates well in highways and it can leave slow traffic behind. It is true that it is not the most powerful but still, it can lend adequate strength when you need it to.

Definitely, crossover SUVs outperform the Armada when it comes to handling. But for a big crossover, the handling of the Armada is good enough. The new Armada is available in the standard rear-wheel drive but prospective owners can go for the all-wheel drive model.

The AWD works as a rear-wheel drive most of the time but in certain conditions, power is transferred to the front wheels so they can share the load. This clever feature is not bad either. Moreover, the AWD Armada can tow up to 9,000 lbs.

Exterior

When it comes to trucks, companies do not need to go the extra mile to make it look unique. After all, all a truck needs is a big cabin to match the big engine. The overall appearance of the new Armada is the standard look for trucks.

Interior

The interior is another area that Nissan seemed to overlook. The lack of room in the third row is very obvious and if you expected it to be big because its appearance from outside suggests so, you will be more disappointed. The cabin of the Armada is not as large as it appears. There are no problems about the front seats for the driver and the passenger though.

We give good credits to Nissan for providing adequate cargo space. Behind the 3rd row it has 20 cubic feet of space and 56.7 cubic feet when you fold it. It gives a total of 97.1 cubic feet.

Safety

The new Armada comes with standard anti lock brakes, traction control, brake assist, electronic distribution for brake force and a total of six air bags. Prospective owners can go for the optional rear view camera.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not tested the Armada but the federal government gave it 3 out of 5 stars for the rollover test.

Reliability

The 2012 Armada comes with the standard 3-year warranty and 5-year warranty for the power train.

Pros

The new Armada has a capable engine and the clever dual range gearing.

Cons

The cabin is not spacious and the overall performance is not as good as its competitors.

We could only hope for the next edition of the Armada to be better. If you need more than a beefy powertrain, there are better choices than the 2012 Nissan Armada.

Competition

The Armada has joined the SUV segment to compete with the likes of the GMC Yukon (MSRP $55,010; 14 city / 18 hwy) and the Chevrolet Tahoe (MSRP $38,755; 15 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s lacking in some features and its interior is a bit cheap, but the 2012 Nissan Armada has rugged good looks and a beefy V-8 powertrain.”Car Connection

“Armada is as clumsy in close quarters as any big SUV. The steering has a firm feel, but this big SUV reacts slowly to inputs. Cornering behavior is generally good, with no undue noseplow or body lean.”Consumer Guide

“The Armada is a large, truck-based SUV with seating for eight. It features an independent rear suspension.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re looking for a powerful, tech-savvy SUV with edgy styling that makes a bold statement, the 2012 Nissan Armada SUV outshines most competitors in its segment and even a few luxury models costing thousands more.”KBB

“Though the 2012 Nissan Armada is a capable full-size SUV, it’s outclassed by newer rivals as well as the latest crop of crossover SUVs.”Edmunds

April 20, 2012 at 5:21 pm | No comment

2012 DC Design Avanti

The 2012 DC Avanti is the foundation for a new class of high end sports cars in India.

The vehicle itself is beyond the prototype stage and will be ready for production in 2013.

The model may not be as appealing to some in other countries that are used to far more power than the Avanti delivers but it is a milestone for the country for which the idea was born.

Performance

The powertrain is comprised of a six speed manual transmission and a four cylinder 2.0 Liter Ford EcoBoost engine. This motor is strong on fuel economy while delivering performance similar to 3.0 Liter engines with high torque and an impressive 240 horsepower.

The electronics are state of the art and ensure peak performance while offering impressive M.P.G. ratings. The vehicle will be light with a traditionally styled frame and specialized yet familiar suspension components to keep it tight and on the road for incredible handling.

Exterior

The body itself is artistic and animalistic in appearance. The lines and aggressive contours come across as this model being a miniature joint collaboration among the largest automotive super sports designers in the world yet it is not.

It is extremely attractive and vicious in how it looks letting you know it is fast and handles sharp curves with ease.

The Future

There are plans for an optional dual clutch six speed transmission but at this point a larger engine is not being considered. If this vehicle interests you but you are located in another country, The DC Avanti is Euro 4 and 5 compliant for export, though the first round of production will be set at 300.

The 2012 DC Avanti will make its mark on the automotive industry while opening the door for improvements to a first run vehicle that is already state of the art in its early production stage.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $54,000.00
Performance
Engine: Ford Ecoboost Inline-4 Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

April 18, 2012 at 8:06 pm | No comment

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