The 2011 Citroen Tubik Concept is a concept car that was created for the purpose of making travelling on the road as pleasurable as possible. It is geared towards making the driving dynamics of a car as fun and meaningful as possible. When taking a look at how the Tubik Concept car looks, it seems like a very stylish and chic automobile. Clearly with this much sophistication in one automobile, it is quite clear cut how much French influence has rubbed off on it. Some claim that this design is a modern take on a classic.

Stylish

Upon taking a closer look on the aesthetics of the car, the asymmetrical entry points for passengers are quite astounding. The interiors and the lighting within the car are also equally impeccable. One thing sticks out with the design which is the lack of windows that for some is quite alarming since people are used to having windows on their vehicle doors. There have been some speculations with regards to the concept of no windows. Some claim that the driver would be able to view the exterior through cameras and screens installed within the vehicle.

When inspecting the car including its interior, it is without a doubt a concept car for the future. With all the futuristic designs incorporated into the vehicle, it surely has raised a lot of queries. As of now, no specific details have been released with regards to this concept car. But one thing is definitely certain: the 2011 Citroen Tubik Concept is definitely something to wait for.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Van Concept

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 189 in. (480 cm)	Wheel Base: NA
Height: 80.7 in. (205 cm)	Width: 81.8 in. (208 cm)

Performance

Engine: Hybrid4

Seating: up to 9 people

When the Cadillac Escalade is brought up, different images come to mind. It has its own radical styling. There is its inherent luxury. And there are the infinite customization options available for this car, both from the factory and the aftermarket. However, one of the things that the Escalade is not known for is its ecological sensibility.

It is known as a gas guzzler, and it doesn’t exactly bode well for potential owners. With gas prices rising and gasoline supplies becoming scarcer, this characteristic has become a liability. However, Cadillac has an answer for that. It is the 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV	Base Price: $74,135.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25 gallons (94.6 liters)	MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.5 in. (514 cm)	Width: 79 in. (200 cm)
Height: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5879 lbs (2666 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9 in. (22.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 6 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve OHV V8 Gas/Electric	Displacement: 6.0 liters
Horsepower: 332 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: NA	Max Towing Capacity: 5600 lbs (2540 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Hybrid Platinum

MSRP: $85,935; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Exterior & Interior

From the outside, you won’t exactly recognize that this Escalade is equipped with a hybrid engine. It still looks very much the same as a conventional Escalade. Hence, you still get that imposing, menacing styling of the Escalade that endeared it to a lot of people. Only some “Hybrid” (9 to be exact) distinguishes itself from your typical Escalade. However, these badges are either loved or hated by people.

Now, we move onto the inside. When you get inside the car, it also looks and feels like an ordinary Escalade, in which you will feel god or bad about, depending on what your feelings are about this car. This is a large car, so you expect a lot of space. And space is one thing that it has in abundance. In fact, 3 rows of seats are standard for this car. In addition, heated seats are standard equipment (at least on the front). Navigation, the aforementioned heated seats, and a rearview camera are standard equipment. The trunk space is generally considered spacious: 16.9 cubic feet is available if all 3 rows of seats are in use, and up to 108.9 cubic feet is available if both the second and third rows of seats are folded out of the way.

Performance

Of course, the one that would get all the attention in a hybrid is its engine. So is it up to the hype? We shall see. This car is powered by an electric motor coupled with a 6.0 liter V8 engine. Its output is rated at 332 horsepower and 367 lb/ft of torque, which is lower than the conventional Escalade, but still powerful enough nonetheless. Despite the reduced output, it still performs and accelerates very well for a car of its size. Due to the reduced power though, both towing and payload capacity are somewhat lowered.

But the meat of the benefits of the hybrid engine is with the reduced fuel consumption and emissions ratings. In fact, the fuel consumption of the Escalade Hybrid is now rated at 20-23 miles per gallon, a huge step up from the 14 miles per gallon rating of the ordinary Escalade. Sure, this is lower mileage compared to other hybrid cars, but it is still an improvement. And considering the size of this car (most hybrids are small compared to the Escalade Hybrid); it is already quite an accomplishment.

Finally

So, what can we deduce about the Cadillac Escalade Hybrid? First observation, of course, is that the fuel savings are going to be surely appreciated. Those that want to go green while having some bling would be seriously satisfied with this car, as it is still very similar to the normal Escalade. However, on the flipside, the fuel economy of this car is still weak compared to other hybrids. And the usual weaknesses of the Escalade (poor visibility, rear seats are better for small people, etc.) are still there.

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is a creative way to go green. While this is not the most fuel efficient hybrid in the world, it still gives you a lot on the table, while taking away only a little of it. Let’s just hope for a lower price tag, and (we think) this should sell.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s also surprising that Cadillac has done little to distinguish (or tone down) the 2011 Escalade Hybrid; other than the fist-sized chrome Hybrid badge on the fender vents, there’s little to call this model out from a distance.”Car Connection

“The Escalade Hybrid uses a two-mode hybrid system to improve gas mileage up to 50 percent in the city over the non-hybrid version, achieving an EPA rating of 21 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid’s added efficiency and overall value is useful compared to other towing vehicles, but clearly, other more fuel-efficient SUVs are available.”Edmunds

The 2011 MINI Countryman is what Mini Coopers want to be when they grow up. It is bigger, more spacious, and more spirited to drive compared to its smaller siblings. But whether this increase in size is enough to charm people who are looking for a practical people and cargo hauler remains to be seen.

What is certain though is that people who have followed the Mini over the years will appreciate that it now has a bigger brother, on steroid or not, that offers all they love about the Mini at a bigger package.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact Wagon	Base Price: $22,350.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.4 gallons (47 liters)	MPG: 28 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 161.7 in. (410 cm)	Width: 70.4 in. (178 cm)
Height: 61.5 in. (156 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.2 in. (259.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2954 lbs (1339 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.6L 16-valve DOHC inline-4	Displacement: 1598 cc
Horsepower: 121 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 114 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 9.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 116 mph (186 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Cooper S Countryman	MSRP: $25,950; MPG: 26 city / 32 hwy
Option:Cooper S Countryman ALL4	MSRP: $27,650; MPG: 25 city / 31 hwy

Mini Coopers aren’t the roomiest cars around. They are ideal for yuppies and urbanites that would normally just use them to drive to work or for some quick errands around the city, probably with a few bags of groceries stowed in the trunk.

Mini introduced the Clubman to broaden its market by catering to those who require more space for their cars. However, sub-compact SUVs like RAV 4 and even bigger hatchbacks like the Mazda 3 gave the Clubman a hard time in capturing that segment of the market.

All that should change with the entry of the MINI Countryman, or so at least Mini hopes.
Yes the Countryman is the biggest of all Minis but will it really appeal to the market Mini is trying to target? Or will it fizzle and worse alienate loyal followers who have come to love the Mini’s distinct diminutive size over the years?

Performance

As with other Minis, the Countryman has an inline-4 1.6L engine that outputs 121hp and 118 lb-ft of torque. Only available on front-wheel drive, the Countryman offers six-speed manual transmission as standard and six-speed automatic transmission as an option.

Performance-wise, the base Countryman accelerates form 0-60 mph in 9.8 seconds, 10.9 seconds for manual and automatic models respectively. Fuel economy is pegged at 28 mpg city/35 mpg highway for the manual, and 25/30 for the automatic.

A Countryman S is also available. It features a turbocharged variant of the same engine that outputs 181hp and 177 lb-ft of torque. Transmission choices are the same for the S variant as the base model.

Additionally a Countryman S All4 edition is available. Basically, it is the same as the S, except that it is an all-wheel drive rather than front-wheel drive. The All4 manual accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds, while the front-wheel is a little quicker. Fuel economy is estimated at 26/32/28 for front-wheel drive and 23/30/26 for the All4 drive.

Interior & Exterior

The Countryman is a compact SUV with four seats. It has two trim models: Countryman and Countryman S. The Countryman S may be fitted with an AWD system, or as Mini likes to call it ALL4.

A set of 17-inch alloy wheels, adjustable steering and throttle settings, height-adjustable driver seat, vinyl upholstery, roof rails, cruise control, air conditioning, trip computer, six-speaker sound system with CD player, satellite and HD radio with auxiliary input jack, and a tilt-and-telescoping leather-clad steering wheel are all standard amenities for the base Countryman.

A turbocharged engine, fog lamps, traction control, a different exterior trim, and sport seats are standard to the Countryman S.

A huge catalogue that lists customization options for the Countryman is available. Buyers may choose to add body graphics, 18-inch wheels, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound audio system, among other things.

Safety

The 2011 Countryman features standard safety amenities such as ABS, stability control, front-seat side airbags, and side curtain air bags. Traction control which is standard on the S model is an option on the base model.

Reliability & Warranty

Standard warranty coverage for the Countryman is four years or 50,000 miles whichever comes first. Additionally, a 12-year unlimited mileage warranty is given against rust perforation.

Competition

The 2011 MINI Countryman is a little tricky to classify as a vehicle. While it is being marketed as a compact SUV, it is significantly smaller and less family-oriented than established crossover vehicles such as the Honda CR-V (MSRP $21,895; 21 city / 28 hwy) and Toyota RAV 4 (MSRP $22,475; 22 city / 28 hwy).

So if it is really a compact SUV you are looking for, then those two brands mentioned earlier may demand your attention. Both offer roomy and competent alternative to the busy parent who may need to haul kids to school or something.

But be warned that they will not reach the level of performance being given by the Countryman.
If performance matters much to you, then you may consider the Volkswagen Tiguan (MSRP $23,720; 18 city / 26 hwy).

Having said that, if what you are just looking for in a car is a spacious vehicle that seats five, has lots of storage options, a generous cargo area, good fuel consumption, then what you might be looking for is nothing more than the Honda Fit (MSRP $15,175; 27 city / 33 hwy), or even a Mazda 3 (MSRP $20,045; 20 city / 28 hwy).

Pros

• A Countryman still looks like a Mini and it drives like a Mini. Whether this is a con as well is debatable.
• The adjustable backseat makes the Countryman more spacious.
• Its engine is fuel efficient and the S model gives a terrific performance.
• Customization options is a plus for people who want to make their car distinctly their own.

Cons

• As with other Minis, the ride can be a little stiff for comfort.
• It also tends to be noisy on the highway.
• A compact SUV that only seats four is a definite turn-off.
• Same can be said about the car’s lesser cargo capacity.
• Price may be too prohibitive for some people.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“MINI legitimizes the crossover movement with the vibrant, all-the-right-moves Countryman.”Car Connection

“Mini’s strong suit. All Countryman variants have crisp steering; athletic handling; and strong, smooth brakes with a compliant pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“It might be big for a Mini, but it’s still mini for an SUV. The 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman maintains the look and driving feel of the regular Cooper hatchback, but provides a usable (and accessible) backseat.”Edmunds

Ever since its inception, AMG is known to turn Mercedes Benz vehicles into full a fledged force of the streets. With their years of experience working with the brand, they are capable of bringing out the best performance from any Mercedes that rolls off the assembly line. And now, for 2012, they have created the fastest SLK to date: the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG.

A Different Look
Known as a compact 2 seater convertible offering from Mercedes Benz, the SLK is seen more as a cruiser that is capable of providing sharp performance. But AMG apparently has other plans for this edition of the SLK. The first thing that would make you think that it is special is its looks at first glance. It is equipped with AMG-made add-ons such as custom wheels, a more aerodynamic body kit and 2 twin exhaust pipes at the rear. But it doesn’t end there.

Performance

AMG has managed to maximize the performance of the SLK. They have thrown in a 5.5 liter V8 engine that is unique in a lot of ways. It produces a healthy 422 horsepower while being the most fuel efficient V8 of its size in the world today. This innovative engine is enough to propel this car to 100 kph from a standstill within 4.6 seconds. Other modifications include a modified AMG suspension, torque vectoring brakes and ESP. The combination of these modifications promises a dynamic driving experience.

When put together, the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLK 55 AMG may not just be the fastest SLK ever. Perhaps the most advanced car in its segment, it is a car that is definitely ahead of its time.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	MPG: 14 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 161.5 in. (410 cm)	Width: 70.6 in. (179 cm)
Height: 50.7 in. (128.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 95.7 in. (243 cm)
Curb Weight: 3472 lbs (1575 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: V8	Displacement: 5.5 LITERS
Horsepower: 422 HP	Torque: 398 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds	Top Speed: 155 mph / 249 km/h

Kia Motors has consistently conceived creative and alluring concept cars throughout its illustrious manufacturing career. Models like the Soul, Sorento, Forte Coup and Sportage all arrived as concept cars that Kia motors had displayed in various car shows.

With the Kia KV7, the company chose to embrace the stereotype of a minivan, rather than to shun it away.

Exterior

As such, the KV7 has been aptly titled as the modern-day “activity van” or mini-van, for short. The A-shaped pillar and windshield template complements the van’s wide stance. Moreover, the sleek body of the KV7 and its 20-inch wheels bring about an urban vibe while adding in the looks of a sports utility vehicle.

Perhaps the most prominent feature of the KV7 is the inclusion of the passenger-side gull wing door. Since there are no more pillars found in between the passenger side doors, the gull wing door creates a spacious point of entry inside the van’s comfortable and stylish interior.

The headlights are outfitted with LED headlamps and other lighting elements. Following the distinctive designs on the Sportage and Optima, the KV7’s windshield and its un-interrupted windows can provide clear and unobstructed views of the passenger’s surroundings.

Interior

Even though it is designed to have the edginess of an SUV, the KV7’s length, width and wheelbase are well within the van segment and allows much legroom and storage options.

The interior features four unique swiveling chairs, including the driver’s seat, with a mini-lounge found at the rear corner of the van. The push start button of the KV7 allows the dashboard to move 6 inches towards the driver and efficiently showcases the multi-use display panel. Moreover, the rear passengers will also have their own touch screen interface.

All of these features are efficiently powered by Kia’s new Theta II 2.0 liter engine – a fine specimen of mechanical beauty.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Mini van

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 191.85 in. (487 cm)	Wheel Base: 122 in. (310 cm)
Height: 68.1 in. (173 cm)	Width: 80 in. (203 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: Theta II Turbocharged V6	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 285 HP	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic