2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept

The 2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept is an introduction to Honda’s forthcoming line of Coupe luxury sedans. It was designed to provide a perfect blend of luxury and affordability which appeals to young people, and first time luxury buyers. This model has the look of a fine luxury vehicle, crossed with a sports car.

It is designed with aerodynamic features for efficiency, as well as all of the aesthetic styling buyers are seeking. In answer to the increasing demand for environmentally friendly luxury vehicles, Honda is planning the next incarnation of this model to be a plug in hybrid.

Exterior & Interior

Accord Coupe is a compact sized model, with a low profile and wide wheelbase. In addition to being aerodynamic, this design improves stability on the road. The trendy yet traditional styling is intended to project a professional image. The design includes all of the basic latest technology, which consumers expect to be included in a luxury vehicle, such as keyless entry and internet radio.

Hybrid

This vehicle, and the expected hybrid version, is being well received by consumers seeking a vehicle with a low-end price tag, and high-end look. However, it is a bit bare-bones compared to leading high-end luxury sedans. It does not include the same level of creature comforts or extra technological features you may find in some models.

Additionally, the hybrid vehicle lacks power when running on battery. Top speeds are estimated to be over 60 mph, and a charge will only last 10-15 miles in typical city driving.

The 2012 Honda Accord Coupe Concept, and the luxury coupes expected to follow are great for a budget luxury car, but the emphasis is heavily on the aesthetic aspects. Those seeking luxury comfort or performance would likely be disappointed. However, those who want to make an impression when they drive will love it.

November 1, 2011 at 6:51 pm | No comment

2011 Gumpert Apollo S

With a lethal combination of top notch aerodynamics, a super lightweight structure, and a super powerful engine, the Gumpert Apollo S is part of the super exclusive list of being among the world’s fastest cars. How this is achieved is something to marvel.

Exterior

The body and chassis is made mostly out of carbon fiber and aluminum, a super durable yet super light combination of materials. This allows the Apollo S to go to the weighing scales at a weight of less than 2700 pounds, a super light weight given that this car is a legit supercar.

In addition, Gumpert has constructed the Apollo’s body to be as aerodynamically efficient as possible, that they have claimed that you can drive this car upside down on a tunnel at around 300 kilometers per hour.

Performance

The heart of the Apollo S is a 4200cc V8 engine that is developed by Gumpert. Adding 2 turbochargers in the mix, this engine produces a massive 900 horsepower. This is enough for the Apollo to hustle to a hundred kilometers per hour in 3 seconds flat (or even less) and push on up to a top speed of 360 kilometers per hour.

A competition grade suspension allows for breathtaking cornering performance. Huge disc brakes allows for strong stopping skill no matter what the speed. And 19 inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport tires allow for maximum grip and stability even at speeds of over 200 miles an hour.

The Gumpert Apollo S goes all in to become one of the fastest cars in the world. And they have delivered as promised.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Est. Base Price: $238,00.00
Performance
Engine: 4.2-liter bi-turbo V8 Horsepower: 700 HP
Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic-Manual Maximum Seating: 2 people
0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds Maximum Speed: 225 mph (362 km/h)

November 1, 2011 at 2:31 pm | 6 comments

2011 Chevrolet Suburban

The Chevrolet Suburban is one of the longest running car names in the industry. This is probably the reason why the 2011 version of Chevrolet Suburban easily got to the top of the list of most of the car reviewers. Usually, this Chevrolet model gains the number 2 spot on inexpensive SUV’s reviews around the internet. This means that the 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is certified and recommended type of vehicle for multi-purpose use.

Performance

The 2011 Suburban can be lined up with the best performer SUV cars that are available on the market. It can either have 5.3 litres V8 engine which powers-up up to 320 hp strength and 335 lb per ft of torque, or have 6.0 litres V8 which powers-up up to 352 hp strength and 382 lb/ft of torque. Each of the engines has unique fuel management system which improves its fuel economy ability. This system impressively cuts the fuel consumption of the car to up to only 1 gallon of fuel per 15 miles of road on cities and 1 gallon of fuel per 21 miles on highways.

Moreover, the control and braking capability of Suburban was also impressive. According to people that have used the car, twisting, turning, and breaking Chevy’s Suburban on the road is much easier than other car models that they have used. This maybe was the result of the great control features that are added on this vehicles machine. In addition to that, Suburban also has a great towing ability.

Exterior & Interior

In terms of overall design, the 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is on top of SUVs. On the outside, the most distinctive thing about this car is its large size. Added to that, Suburban takes an angular shape which gives it an adventurous type of look. The size of the car was also the most noticeable thing on the car’s interior. Because of large space, people can seat comfortably with its cotton or leather seats. Some of the other things that enhanced the inside looks of the car are OnStar controls, navigation system, power rear hatch, high-end LTZ, and seat trim style.

Safety

The only hole on Chevrolet Suburban’s purchase is that the car is not crash tested by trusted boards. This means that people cannot be assured that they will be safe on the car. The good thing is that its company is really doing their best to improve the protective ability of the car. Some of the safety features that they installed on the car to protect the lives of its passengers are automatic brake system, airbags from different sides, and fog light.

The Competition

Compared to other cars alike, the Ford Expedition EL surpassed it pretty well on its every specification. On the contrary, SUV cars like the Buick Enclave (MSRP $36,600; 17 city / 24 hwy), Chevy Traverse (MSRP $29,430; 17 city / 24 hwy), and GMC Acadia (MSRP $32,605; 17 city / 24 hwy) is no match with Suburban in terms of car’s capacity and performance. This only shows that this model of car is not really a bad choice.

Pros

  • Strong performance with either 5.3 litres or 6.0 litres engine
  • Is a great handling, breaking, and towing performer
  • Great fuel saving ability through its fuel management system
  • Good looks on the inside and outside of the car

Cons

  • Not fully crash checked by trusted safety boards
  • Have a large extra space
  • Not a good choice for people who doesn’t need a lot of towing

The 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is best suited for people who do a lot towing and haul all types of cargo. It has a large interior with pulling strength which will surely help in accomplishing those tasks.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“Overall, Suburban gets a larger third-row seat and more cargo space with the third row up—plus larger rear doors that allow easier access to the third row.”Car Connection

“Suburban reacts alertly to steering inputs, but some testers say the steering is too sensitive at highway speeds, especially with the available 20-inch tires”Consumer Guide

“There is room for up to nine people, but typical versions seat seven. The third-row seat sits too low and is uncomfortable.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Chevrolet Suburban is a compelling choice for those who need a traditional full-size SUV with massive passenger, cargo and towing capacities. We just wonder how many people really do.”Edmunds

“It takes a lot of fuel to haul this much mass up and down the road. With prices at the pump continuing to trend upward, buyers should ask themselves if they need the Suburban’s space and utility enough to justify the expense.”KBB

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $41,730.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31.5 gallons (119 liters) MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 222.4 in. (564.8 cm) Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm)
Height: 76.8 in. (195 cm) Wheel Base: 130 in. (330 cm)
Curb Weight: 5751 lbs (2608 kg) Ground Clearance: 10.5 in. (26.6 cm)front
Luggage Capacity: 45.8 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: 8100 lbs (3674 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Suburban LS 2500 MSRP: $42,945; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Suburban LT 1500 MSRP: $44,845; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Suburban LT 2500 MSRP: $46,435; MPG: 10 city / 16 hwy
Option:Suburban LTZ 1500 MSRP: $53,580; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

November 1, 2011 at 12:13 am | No comment

2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid

A hybrid is a hybrid simply because of its two power sources – an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. It has two power sources and two powerfully significant results – maximum fuel economy and minimum pollution.

The 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid is available as an affordable large Sports Utility Vehicles. Its fuel efficiency, a standard feature in all brands and models from the General Motors Corporation, is most highlighted in this vehicle.

The GMC Yukon Hybrid ranks the sixth out of eight affordable large SUVs in the market based on analysis of published reviews and test drive feedbacks. The base of the Yukon Hybrid, which is the 2011 GMC Yukon, is in fourth place. Occupying the top spots on the same list though are two models from GMCs corporate relative, the Chevrolet. The 2011 Chevrolet Tahoe is Top 1 on the list. The Chevrolet Suburban (MSRP $41,335; 15 city / 21 hwy) is not far behind at number 2 on the list.

Performance

The Yukon Hybrid features a two-mode hybrid propulsion system. It has 18” Hybrid exclusive wheels, fuel efficiency gauge. It has similar features with the base Yukon with an 8 –passenger leather appointed, comfortable interior space that can allow some effortless towing on the side. Performance-wise, it is highly superior and very capable, just like it original sibling. It is backed by the following features: Flexfuel Capability Vortec V8, Active Fuel Management and Hybrid Power flow Display for reliability.

Exterior & Interior

On the exterior, most of its air is characterized by subtlety. It is sleek, classic and elegant. It is maneuverable, light and easy to drive and cruises along the highway gracefully. It has a gentleman’s stride on the streets, owing to the characteristic General Motor masculinity. Inside, it is fitted with a comfortable and spacious interior for eight passengers, lavishing in coziness of the leather appointed seats. It is gives a feeling similar to what one experiences at home in a relaxing leather sofa.

The Yukon is tech savvy SUV as well. For easy parking and backing maneuvers and convenient navigation, it is installed with XM Radio and Available XM Navtraffic, Sideblind Zone Alert, Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist. It is ready with the following gadgets and communications capabilities: DVD Entertainment System, Bluetooth, Rearview Camera System, Touchscreen Navigation System, and Onstar.

Safety

The excellent safety attribute of the Yukon is simply shared with the Yukon Hybrid. Federal government-conducted crash tests on front and side collisions performed yielded admirable results for the Hybrid as well. In fact, it offers 360 degrees of protection for maximum safety of all passengers making it a favorite among safety conscious car owners.

Hybrids are really for environment loving owners. With the Yukon, an individual, if not the whole family can leave behind minimum carbon footprint on its way. As global warming is apparently a global issue which necessitates individual participation on a global scale as well, every carbon monoxide emission that can be reduced if not totally suppress, goes a long way.

More Competition

Its corporate cousins but competitors at the same time, the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid (MSRP $51,145; 20 city / 23 hwy) is slightly lower in price, while the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid (MSRP $74,135; 20 city / 23 hwy) is the most expensive of the three.

Finally, in so far hybrids go, the 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid is worth every hard earned dollar of the family. It affords the owner a large SUV capability, fuel economy, towing capacity, state of the art technology, plush interior, and everything else that a vehicle buyer could ask for.

Overall Rating
84 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 GMC Yukon Hybrid looks much like a standard GMC Yukon and allows about the same level of performance and comfort.”Car Connection

“Impressive fuel economy in city operation; handsome cabin with solid build quality; comfortable ride; seats eight passengers.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV Base Price: $51,610.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24 gallons (90 liters) MPG: 20 city / 23 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: 5645 lbs (2560 kg) Ground Clearance: 9 in. (22.8 cm)
Payload Capacity: 1471 lbs Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: Hybrid Vortec V8 2WD Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 6200 lbs (2812 kgs) Maximum Speed: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Yukon Hybrid 4WD MSRP: $54,420; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

October 31, 2011 at 5:42 pm | No comment

2011 Chevrolet Impala

The 2011 Chevrolet Impala is considered as the top choice among huge sedans. It is available in 8 selections of exterior colors. There are 3 available models for 2011 Impala.

Performance

Chevrolet Impala runs on V6 engine with a displacement of 3.5 liters. It can provide a highway fuel economy of 30 miles per gallon. It runs on gasoline and ethanol fuel. It is equipped with Variable Valve Timing which aids in controlling emissions. It has 6 automatic transmissions with direct fuel injection.

The engine provides 300 horsepower and a torque of 262 pound-foot. The front suspension is MacPherson strut while the rear suspension is Tri-Link. The Impala introduces the use of Chevrolet’s technology called the E85 FlexFuel which burns the fuel in a cleaner manner.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior of the Impala is aerodynamically designed. It has fog lamps and daytime running lights. The heated mirrors are available for exterior drive mirror and exterior passenger mirror. The doors are equipped with a remote keyless entry for convenience. The wheels are furnished in aluminum substance for durability.

The Chevrolet Impala can accommodate a total of 5 passengers. The option for the seating capacity for 6 passengers is also available in two of its three models. The cargo has a volume of 18.6 cubic feet. The Impala’s approximate width is 72.9 inches while its approximate length is 200.4 inches. The rear seat can be flipped and folded flat for added comfort and ease. An additional feature for convenience includes heated seats which are bucket-shaped. Cloth seats and fixed leather seats are also available in the three models of Chevrolet Impala.

The driver seat also includes a support for lumbar part of the body for convenient driving experience. The audio entertainment includes a CD player and an am/fm radio. There are 8 installed speakers for an excellent audio entertainment. The floor mats cushioned the front and rear floors. The Bluetooth technology incorporated in Chevrolet Impala allows the use of mobile phones without using the hands because of its wireless connectivity. Another technology incorporated with the car is the Driver Information Center which monitors the pressure of the tire and oil-life.

Safety

The 2011 Impala is equipped with several safety features. It has a total of 6 air bags available for front side impact, rear side impact, and thorax side impact. The rear door is also equipped with a child security lockout safety feature. The StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control safety feature aids the driver during tough driving situations. Chevrolet also introduces the use of OnStar services in providing safety in all its Impala models. OnStar services include automatic crash response, crisis assistance, and emergency service.

The Competition

Compared with other car models of the same price range and features, the Impala is an average sedan. Although it has a larger engine displacement compared to other cars. Its engine also introduces the use of ethanol as fuel. The Ford Taurus (MSRP $32,155; 18 city / 27 hwy), Nissan Maxima (MSRP $34,450; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Toyota Avalon (MSRP $33,195; 20 city / 29 hwy) are frequently compared to the Impala.

The advantages of 2011 Chevrolet Impala are its safety features, interior and exterior details. It offers practical and technologically advanced safety features. The interior and exterior details also provide good quality. The disadvantages of this sedan are its horsepower and torque capacities. They provide lower performance outputs compared with other models.

Overall Rating
66 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Chevrolet Impala has ample space for people and their bring-along stuff, but it’s nowhere near as sophisticated or as well-tailored as its American and Asian competition.”Car Connection

“Any Impala is stable with good steering feel, though no model can be described as agile. Stopping control is good.”Consumer Guide

“Dated and unimpressive, the large Impala sedan has less room than the smaller but much nicer Chevy Malibu. Handling is clumsy and the ride unsettled. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Cheap interior materials and construction; underwhelming engine choices; four-speed automatic; lackluster handling”Edmunds

“If you’re in search of a big, roomy sedan that won’t break the bank, the 2011 Chevrolet Impala will thoroughly meet your needs and probably exceed your expectations. ”KBB

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $24,495.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66 liters) MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 200.4 in. (509 cm) Width: 72.9 in. (185 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149 cm) Wheel Base: 110.5 in. (280 cm)
Curb Weight: 3555 lbs (1612 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 18.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L 12 Valve OHV V6 Displacement: 214 cu in
Horsepower: 211 HP Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 216 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Impala LT MSRP: $25,710; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy
Option:Impala LTZ MSRP: $30,035; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy

October 31, 2011 at 4:59 pm | No comment

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