2011 Hamann BMW X6 Tycoon Evo M

The 2011 Hamann BMW X6 Tycoon Evo M is the most recent modification to X6. The body size of the newer version has been enlarged. The skirts were also included as well as LED lights. The interiors were upgrades and new accessories have been installed such as better exhaust systems, bumper designs and top of the line engine performance. This automobile has also been remodelled to be more aerodynamic which means several adjustments have been made to its core.

Engine Performance

The engine of the Hamann BMW X6 Tycoon Evo M also has a lot more force in its engine in comparison to the preceding models. Its engine has the ability to triple its speed in 4.2 seconds. In fact, this particular model is considered as one of the fastest cars to date. Some of the modifications they to make in order to create this engine are the following: addition of a ECU course, a metal tucker system and most importantly replacing the conventional engine to a turbocharged one.

Exterior

The body of this fine vehicle, you will notice the alloy rims. This modification not only provides the model with aesthetic points but contributes to the performance as well. Other kit modifications done are changes to the forward and back axle springs. Basically, all the new additions and re-modelling done to this latest version of the BMW X6 makes it a high performance automobile with the aesthetics to back it all up.

Specifications

Performance
Engine: V8 DOHC Displacement: NA
Horsepower: 670 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 701 lb-ft @ 1500-5650 rpm Transmission: NA
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds Maximum Speed: 186 mph (299 km/h)

November 9, 2011 at 4:38 pm | 3 comments

2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

The Mercedes 2011 R-Class made its world premiere at the New York Motor in 2010. It’s time to take a look at this excellent crossover. The R-Class has all the quality that you expect from a Mercedes executive sedan and all the features of a luxury SUV. The R-Class is the most sporty and versatile crossover on the market today. If you are looking for a vehicle capable of performing well as a large family car with comfort, style and true sporting pedigree then there are not a lot of options.

Performance

Completely redesigned for 2011. The R300 CDI which I test drove was refined and powerful. The 2011 R-Class Complies with the world’s most stringent emission regulations. Worldwide demand is increasing for luxury SUV’s that are clean to run. The Mercedes goes some way to fulfilling that demand. Whilst a large engine SUV is never going to be the most economical car on the road, it does perform well for its class in terms of CO2 emissions. The 202 horsepower diesel engine achieves 24mpg on the highway and 500 miles on a single tank of diesel.

The R-Class feels a little large and bulky around city centers but once it is on the highway it suddenly makes a lot more sense. The R-Class excels as a highway cruiser. It eats up the miles in comfort and you arrive feeling fresh and relaxed. I have not tried the R-Class in any serious off road conditions to test the 4 wheel drive capabilities but when presented with mild off road conditions it copes well. I suspect that is all the R-Class is designed to cope with and it does its job well.

Interior & Exterior

The interior styling is typical Mercedes-Benz. It screams quality and sophistication and is a wonderful place to be. The interior of a car is always massively important to me. It is after all, the place where you will experience the car from so is far more important that exterior looks for me. Mercedes always performs well here. Again they have achieved class leading comfort for all 7 passengers and the driver. The exterior look is stylish and sporty. The German styling is again typical Mercedes. No other car in this class looks this good.

Safety

No crash test data is available for the new R-Class yet but if you look at the excellent performance of recent Mercedes then it is hard to imagine it performing badly at all. Mercedes cars usually score 5 stars in crash tests and judging by the amount of safety equipment and features present I predict that the R-Class will also.

The Competition

The major competitors for the R-Class are mainly German crossovers. The BMW X6 (MSRP $58,900; 16 city / 23 hwy) is a good car but rear head room is restricted so it loses out to the R-Class for passenger comfort. Some people are fans of the Porsche Cayenne but it is very expensive to run and has a firm ride. The most serious competitor for the Mercedes is the Audi Q7 (MSRP $46,250) which is an outstanding car. It runs the R-Class very close but the interior of the R-Class and general felling of sophistication makes the R-Class the winner for me.

The strength of the R-Class is that it provides so many good things in one package. If you are looking for one car that does it all you won’t find any better than an R-Class.

Pros & Cons

Leads it class with luxury and seats 6 people comfortably. It is excellent in safety performance. It can feel bulky around the town.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“We’re not surprised that a number of livery companies have ordered R-Class models. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class has seating that adults are bound to find comfortable, no matter which row they’re in, though cargo versatility suffers slightly for it.”Car Connection

“R-Class acts more like a station wagon than an SUV. The steering is impressively linear and accurate, though some drivers may prefer a weightier feel. R-Class corners with impressive grip and balance with no excess body lean. Stopping control is strong.”Consumer Guide

“The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a hard vehicle to classify. It has the size of an SUV, the looks of a minivan and the carlike unibody structure of a crossover. But it’s not really any of them. It’s roomier than your typical crossover, doesn’t have sliding side doors like a minivan, and drives like a car, not a wonky SUV.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Long rear doors are a hassle in parking lots; lack of torque and fuel economy from gasoline V6; fussy COMAND interface; pricey for what is essentially a glorified minivan.”Edmunds

“If you can’t quite stand the thought of owning a minivan but require an abundance of space and functionality, the R-Class is a winner.”KBB

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Wagon Crossover Base Price: $52,690.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters) MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 203 in. (515.6 cm) Wheel Base: 126.6 in. (321.5 cm)
Height: 65.4 in. (166 cm) Width: 85.4 in. (216.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4960 lbs (2250 kg) Ground Clearance: 5.8 in. (14.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.2 cu ft Maximum Seating: 6 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L DOHC V6 Displacement: 3498 cc
Horsepower: 302 HP Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed 4Matic
0-60 mph: 8.2 seconds Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1587 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:R350 BlueTEC Crossover V6 TurboDiesel MSRP: $53,480; MPG: 18 city / 23 hwy

November 9, 2011 at 7:08 am | No comment

2011 Chevrolet Tahoe

According to some reviews, the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is number 1 in its class and price range. This car has impressive capacity, strength, and safety features. These are reasons why this SUV is the vehicle of choice by most people.

Performance

This Chevy Tahoe has a 5.3 litres V8 engine which produces 320 horsepower and 325 pound feet torque. Moreover, handling the car is also at high point for its users. Steering and braking gives the driver the confidence needed in controlling this SUV.

Like its sister model, the Chevrolet Suburban, the Tahoe also has a fuel management system. This system shuts down the engines number 8 cylinder when it is not needed, thus, improving the car’s fuel economy ability. Despite the fact that the car has this system, some of its users still complain with the consumption of fuel that Tahoe renders. This maybe is the only deficiency in its performance.

Exterior & Interior

The overall design of the Tahoe was given a high rating. The exterior of the car takes an angular, sleek, and aerodynamics likable looks. On the other hand, its interior has a lot of space, is very luxurious, is well-equipped, and has very comfortable seats. There are nine seats available on the car.

Some of the equipment available in the car are an AM/FM/CD player, zone climate control, and built-in camera. Moreover, the seats of Tahoe can be removed to increase its cargo capacity. Through those features in its design, it was rated as good by most of its users.

Reliability & Safety

In terms of reliability, the 2011 Tahoe scored 8 out of 10. That rating was based on the car’s manufacturers past reliability records, extensive studies, and historical quality which are the things that make the score very trustable. Tahoe come with a 100,000 miles or 5 years or 6 years warranty on its purchase. This adds a little point on its reliability score.

The safety ability of the Chevy Tahoe was also highly rated by its reviewers. It was given an “excellent” score by most of the people. The score was based on the previous crash tests made by the government boards on its 2010 version. The car gained a perfect score on side, frontal, rear, rollover crash tests. Some of the things that are installed on the car which are the reason of its high safety ratings are airbags on different sides, traction control, and other safety standards on SUVs.

The Competition

For people who want more comfortable seats than the ones on Tahoe, it will be a good idea to check Ford Expedition (MSRP $36,305; 14 city / 20 hwy) and Toyota Sequoia (MSRP $40,930; 14 city / 20 hwy).

Pros

  • Top performer
  • Large Capacity
  • Good overall design
  • Included in 2010 most safe cars

Cons

  • Did not fully reduce fuel usage
  • Not good choice for people who are not engage in towing large things
  • Its large-size looks from the outside seems to be a disadvantage
  • Not yet crash tested on 2011

The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is the most recommended car model for people who are looking for powerful, high capacity, and reasonably priced SUV cars.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is spacious and comfortable—with high-quality materials to boot—though the third-row design is clunky.”Car Connection

“Alert reactions to steering. These are tall, heavy vehicles, so they never feel nimble. But there’s no excessive body lean in turns with the base suspension, and even less with Autoride. Low-speed maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. The brakes feel strong, but some testers want better pedal modulation.”Consumer Guide

“The Tahoe’s ride is supple, but handling and braking are so-so. Trailer-towing capability is impressive.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Chevy Tahoe is a leading choice for a traditional large SUV thanks to its comfortable cabin and ability to haul and tow. But for pure passenger use, a large crossover SUV might work out better.”Edmunds

“If you have a number of children, tow a boat or horse trailer and like the feel of a substantial V8-powered vehicle, the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe could be just the ticket. ”KBB

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $37,980.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98 liters) MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 202 in. (513 cm) Width: 79 in. (200 cm)
Height: 76.9 in. (195 cm) Wheel Base: 116 in. (294 cm)
Curb Weight: 5906 lbs (2678 kg) Ground Clearance: 10.5 in. (26 cm)ft.
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8 people
Performance
Engine: 5.3L 16-Valve OHV V8 Displacement: 323 cu. in
Horsepower: 320 HP Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic OD
0-60 mph: NA Max Towing Capacity: 8500 lbs (3855 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Tahoe LT MSRP: $42,830; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Tahoe LTZ MSRP: $51,465; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

November 9, 2011 at 1:42 am | No comment

2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid

The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is a classy and competitive SUV in the market because of its fuel-efficient quality. Ranking 7 out of 8 in the list of Affordable Large SUVs, the Tahoe Hybrid combines the competencies of a truck-based SUV and the economy in fuel consumption of a typical sedan, thus dubbed as a green monster by car reviewers.

The Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid, is America’s first full-size SUV, that can carry eight people and has a capacity to tow recreational equipment. For people who need the means of a large SUV while vying for a vehicle with a carbon footprint, this vehicle is the answer.

Although the Tahoe Hybrid pushes its way to being green, it doesn’t come cheap. The 2011 Tahoe Hybrid is fairly expensive, much more than the typical Chevrolet Tahoe. This Hybrid SUV offers a great deal of increase in fuel economy at about 25% improvement rate in mixed driving compared to its gas-only version.

Performance

Irrefutably, as reviewers state it, owning a Tahoe Hybrid is in fact satisfying. The SUV carries with it a long list of features, ample power and comfortable handling that buyers look for. Despite its fuel efficiency, its engine is still powerful with 332 horsepower, 367 lb.-ft. of torque and up to 6,200 lbs. of towing capacity with a cylinder deactivation system, not to mention it’s backed by a 100,000 mile/8-year limited warranty on particular hybrid components.

Moreover, the Tahoe Hybrid has a seating capacity of eight in a roomy and comfortable cabin. The Tahoe is perfect for those who have large families and enjoy city driving since it could provide significant fuel savings as compared to an archetypal large SUV.

The Tahoe Hybrid would not be your best choice if you are looking for a car that can carry passengers more than eight or if you want one with the same seating capacity in a lower price. The Chevrolet Traverse can provide the same seating capacity but costs less than the Tahoe Hybrid. The Traverse also beats the Tahoe Hybrid in highway numbers, though fuel economy of the latter can’t be matched by the previous one.

According to some reviewers, the electric motors of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid aren’t powerful enough to carry the weight of the SUV well at slow speeds. Although, the first-class ride you would expect from a Tahoe is present in the Hybrid.

Exterior & Interior

With its superior styling, rugged lines and unmistakable grill, the Tahoe Hybrid almost looks like an ordinary Tahoe. Modifications, though, were done to reduce the car’s weight thereby maximizing fuel economy. The small changes would also include; the now aluminum steel hood, bumper and rear lift-gate, the undercarriage placed a centimeter closer to the ground, the flared ends of the running boards to improve the car’s aerodynamics, and the larger air intake in the front fascia.

The interior of the Tahoe Hybrid has a seating for seven passengers with plenty of leg-room. The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid has standard interior features including an AM/FM radio with in-dash single CD player; auxiliary MP3 audio input; a Bose premium speaker system with nine speakers in total; a DVD navigation system with voice activation; a leather-wrapped steering wheel; tri-zone automatic climate control; and a USB port.

The Competition

If you are looking for a car whose fuel economy can beat that of the Tahoe Hybrid’s, you ought to have a Toyota Highlander Hybrid (MSRP $38,140) at a 28/28 mpg city/highway fuel economy. The Highlander Hybrid, however, can only accommodate seven people and a lot of reviewers say that its interior is not as comfy as that of the Tahoe Hybrid’s. Despite the shortcomings, the Highlander Hybrid is almost $17,000 less than the Tahoe Hybrid.

Safety & Reliability

The Chevy Tahoe Hybrid includes standard safety features to ensure the security of the buyers. The safety features include: the standard accidence avoidance features with StabiliTrak electronic stability control, making the Chevy Tahoe Hybrid stable on slippery surfaces; a four-wheel anti-lock brake system, a feature that decreases locking wheels when in contact with slick surfaces; a rear-view camera; features for crash safety such as air bags with a passenger detecting system; head curtain side-impact air bags; head airbags; and seats designed for child safety.

Although the model hasn’t been crashed tested yet, its features are quite similar to the gas-only Tahoe, which does well in federal government crash tests, making crash tests unnecessary.

The Predicted Reliability score provided by J.D. Power for the 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is 7.0 out of 10. They based this score on historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power’s automotive studies for the past three years. These studies would be specified on Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid is one of the greenest sport-utility vehicles—allowing nearly the same level of truck-based SUV goodness as the standard Tahoe…”Car Connection

“The Tahoe’s ride is supple, but handling and braking are so-so. Trailer-towing capability is impressive. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Expensive; non-foldaway third-row seats must be removed and stored; not as user-friendly as many fuel-efficient crossover alternatives.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV Base Price: $51,145.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25 gallons (94 liters) MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 202.0 in. (513 cm) Width: 79 in. (200 cm)
Height: 74.6 in. (189 cm) Wheel Base: 116 in. (294 cm)
Curb Weight: 5688 lbs (2580 kg) Ground Clearance(Front): 10.2 in. (25 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8 people
Performance
Engine: Gas-Electric V8 DOHC Displacement: 6.0 liter
Horsepower: 332 HP Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic w/ OD
0-60 mph: NA Max Towing Capacity: 6200 lbs (2812 kgs)

November 8, 2011 at 1:42 am | No comment

2012 AC Schnitzer BMW 650i Cabriolet

The 2012 AC Schnitzer BMW 650i Cabriolet is another automobile from the German tuning specialists. The launch was scheduled for the next Frankfurt Auto Show in 2012.

Performance

This car boasts of a lot of new and upgraded features from its engines to the awesome interior detailing. The AC Schnitzer 650i Cabriolet model includes a V8 engine with a 540 horsepower which provides the vehicle with a zero to 62 miles per hour increase in speed in only 4.4 seconds. Now, if you think that’s impressive, it only gets better.

The cars suspension has been re-adjusted in order to make room for a better high performance brake system. Of course, as with any high performance car engine, you will need the top of the line break system to ensure optimal safety.

Exterior & Interior

As for the aerodynamics of this automobile, the 650i Cabriolet has an improved exterior with a brand new rear skirt with an incorporated protection film. This model has 21 inch rims that are light weight and aesthetically pleasing. Just by the looks of it, these wheels were definitely built for high performance driving.

In terms of the interior, the 650i Cabriolet has a lot of new additions in terms of accessories and trimmings. The steering wheel has been redesigned for better driving dynamics as well as the pedal and improved floor mats. The pedal itself is made of aluminium to give a more modern and chic feel to the vehicle.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Cabriolet Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) MPG (base): 15 city / 22 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 192.7 in. (489 cm) Wheel Base: 112.4 in. (285 cm)
Height: 53.7 in. (136 cm) Width: 74.5 in. (189 cm)
Curb Weight: 4531 lbs (2055 kg) Ground Clearance: 4.8 in. (12.1 cm)
Performance
Engine: 4.4L V8 Horsepower: 540 HP
0-60 mph: 4.4 seconds Maximum Speed: NA

November 7, 2011 at 4:38 pm | 5 comments

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