2012 SSC Tuatara

2012 awaits the entry of the newest offering from Shelby Super Cars (SSC), the 2012 SSC Tuatara. This car is aimed to unseating the Bugatti Veyron SS as the fastest car in the world. Jerod Shelby, founder and CEO of SSC, unveiled the Tuatara in the presence of a few people from the industry. Jerod Shelby is not related to Carroll Shelby, the legend behind all those muscle cars. The name of this supercar is derived from the Maori language that describes a resident reptile from New Zealand, Tuatara, means “peaks at the back.

Specifications
Vehicle Type: SuperCar Base Price: $970,000.00
Engine: 7-liter quad cam, twin turbo V8 Horsepower: 1350 hp
Max RPM: 9000 rpm Curb Weight: 2646 lbs (1200 kg)
Displacement: 7-liter Aspiration: Turbo
0-60 mph: 2.8 seconds Projected Maximum Speed: 275 mph (442 kmh) (Not yet tested!)

Shelby and his team of 16 engineers have put their skills together to produce a high performance production vehicle in the SSC Tuatara by highlighting this rear wheel drive, 1,350 horsepower speedster. SSC produced the Ultimate Aero that was able to topple the record established by the Bugatti Veyron. In 2007, the Ultimate Aero TT had a run of 256 mph on a four mile stretch of a Texas carriageway. The Volkswagen owned Bugatti, not to be denied, came back with the Veyron SS (Super Sport) and clocked a record 267 mph.

With the Tuatara, Shelby SuperCars intends to reclaim that distinction of being the fastest car in the world, by aiming for a record setting 275 mph.

Performance

As for the engine, Jerod Shelby’s team of engineers has come up with a rear wheel drive, quad cam (four valves per cylinder OHC), twin turbo V8 engine. This 7 Liter engine produces 1350 HP and revs up to 9000 rpm.

Braking is aided by traction control, ABS with servo assistance, and the use of carbon ceramic brakes by Brembo. It comes in at 2646 lbs (1200 kgs) curb weight, which puts it at 1407 lbs(638 kgs) lighter than the Veyron. Little, if any, change has been done on the suspension in which SSC keeps the coil over setup intact along with the triple plate carbon clutch mechanism.

Expectations are high on this new SSC Tuatara, with all those horses; zero to sixty mph should come in under 2.8 seconds. It has been claimed that its top speed will be at 275 mph, hang on to your seats for the final results.

Exterior

The body design of the Tuatara was rendered by Jason Castriota, an Italian-American designer who has been instrumental in creating some of the best looking cars in the world. Among his creations include the best in the industry, Bertone, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, and Pininfarina. Castriota was unsure whether he wanted to take on the challenge presented to him by Jerod Shelby in designing this latest from SSC.

When he did take up the challenge, the result has become the ideal in combining form and function. The black teardrop shaped canopy splashed amid the white body provides a contrast in style and power. The classic shape allows it for a minimum of drag. Dihedral stabilizers (wings) add to the Tuatara’s performance and look. The winglets located in the rear not only improve aerodynamics, but also keeps the car together as it speeds up to 200 miles per hour.

Body and chassis are made of carbon fiber, except for those impact areas in the front and rear of the Tuatara. It also has oval cut outs in varying sizes that help release heat produced by the engine through the body. The Tuatara features an F-1 looking exhaust that functions as a diffuser in the rear. When looking down at this low slung supercar, the Tuatara can seem intimidating.

Interior

No one really knows what to expect what the interior of the Tuatara will look like. The total interior design has not been completed. It will have the necessary features in driving a two seater, such as the seatbelts and auto air-conditioner.

Speculation has it that the inside of the Tuatara will live up to its reputation in addition to providing easy viewing and access LCD central displays.

The Competition

There is little competition in this area of supercars. The SSC Tuatara is expected to be priced at $970,000, while the Bugatti Veyron SS rings the bell at $2.4 million. If you have extra to spend, the other potential alternative is the Koenigsegg Agera, $1.5 million.

Whichever way you go, you have an international choice at your disposal; the SSC Tuatara from the USA, Bugatti Veyron SS from Germany, and the Swedish Koenigsegg Agera. Whether you’re looking for a showroom vehicle or one for the racetrack, chances are the Tuatara will push its competitors once again to the limits, watch for this fastest evolving DNA creation from SSC.

September 6, 2011 at 6:20 pm | 74 comments

2011 Nissan Quest

The 2011 Nissan Quest has undergone major improvements. Some even say that is has been fully redesigned. The new model is still a minivan with a capacity for seven passengers. It is offered in four trim levels.

The manufacturer—automobile giant Nissan—made it a point to go different when it comes to the exterior and interior design and styling of the 2011 model of the Nissan Quest. However, there are quite a handful of reviews that said this approach tend to polarize other potential customers rather than attract them.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Mini-Van Base Price: $27,750.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75.7 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 24 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 200.8 in. (510 cm) Width: 77.6 in. (197 cm)
Height: 71.5 in. (181 cm) Wheel Base: 118.1 in. (299 cm)
Curb Weight: 4367 lbs (1980 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.2 in. (15.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 25.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6 Displacement: 3.5-liter
Horsepower: 260 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 240 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: CVT
0-60 mph: 8.2 seconds Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1578 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:SV MSRP: $30,900; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:SL MSRP: $34,350; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:LE MSRP: $41,350; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that the 2011 model of the Nissan Quest is fully-equipped with a V6 engine with a capacity for 3.5 liters. It is also capable of producing as much as 260 horsepower as well as 240 pound-feet of torque. This is then coupled with a continuous variable transmission which then delivers power to the front wheels of the 2011 Quest.

When it comes to the EPA, the ratings of the fuel economy of this model have not been released thus far. But according to its manufacturers, all the trims in the line up of this model have 19mpg city capacity as well as 24 mpg capacity on the highway.

Overall, when it comes to performance, this model boasts of decent handling as well as a powerful engine. Thus, though it is not really considered a superb choice for its class. The 2011 model of the Nissan Quest is still a pretty good choice for a minivan.

Interior & Exterior

When it comes to the exterior design and styling of the 2011 model, customers and experts alike say that the outside look and style has improved for the better. However, the reviews are still quite mixed because not everyone liked it. As a matter of fact, people tend to shy away from the style of minivans in general.

But as for the interior, most reviews are saying that the 2011 Quest does quite well. When it comes to the cabin, the 2011 model has been praised for the practicality and comfort of its cabin. On the contrary, there are still reviews that say that some of the materials for the interior still give a cheap feeling. But all in all, all the seven seats of the Nissan Quest are comfortable for the passengers. However, if you think about it, most of the minivans can actually seat eight people.

As for the interior features, a lot of reviewers are still unsatisfied. But when it comes to the higher trims for this model, it is a different story.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to the safety, Nissan made it a point to include standard safety features for all the trims in this model. For instance, all trims have six air bags with all three rows receiving side-curtain airbags. The stability control feature as well as the antilock disc brakes is also standard for all the trims. The Easy Fill Tire Alert feature which is a standard for this model is also a hit among many reviewers. All trim levels also enjoy a rear view camera as a standard, well except for the base S trim level.

Finally, when it comes to reliability, the Quest received a 6.0 out of 10 rating in the Predicted Reliability rating of J. D. Power. And as for the warranty, it comes with the typical limited warranty of three years or 36,000 miles. It also comes with a power-train warranty of five years or 60,000 miles.

The Competition

If you want other options, you can check out the Honda Odyssey (MSRP $28,075; 18 city / 27 hwy), Toyota Sienna (MSRP $25,060; 19 city / 24 hwy) or Kia Sedona (MSRP $24,595; 18 city / 25 hwy) which are all competitors of the 2011 Nissan Quest.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The minivan buyer prizes space, flexibility and efficiency—and the 2011 Nissan Quest has taken steps back on all those fronts.”Car Connection

“ It’s strong off the line with enough muscle for passing, though the CVT occasionally caused the engine to sound strained during uphill climbs.”Consumer Guide

“Quiet and smooth ride; roomy seating; excellent continuously variable transmission (CVT); sharp steering and handling.”Edmunds

September 6, 2011 at 1:20 pm | No comment

2011 Lexus CT 200h

Lexus is the luxury car division and U.S. brand name of Toyota Motors Inc. This review gives information on the engine performance, exterior, interior, safety & reliability, as well as the pros and cons of the 2011 Lexus CT 200h.

The Lexus CT 200h is classified under the Upscale Small Cars. Under this classification it is ranked 1 out of 10. This is based on nearly a dozen published reviews, data and specification analysis of the make and model.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Compact Base Price: $29,120.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gallons (45 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 43 city / 40 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 170.1 in. (432 cm) Width: 69.5 in. (176 cm)
Height: 56.7 in. (144 cm) Wheel Base: 102.4 in. (260 cm)
Curb Weight: 3130 lbs (1420 kg) Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.3 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4 Displacement: 1.8-liter
Horsepower: 134 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 142 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: ECVT-Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission
0-60 mph: 9.8 seconds Maximum Speed: 113 mph (181 km/h)
Available Trim & Engine
Option:Lexus CT 200h Premium MSRP: $30,900; MPG: 43 city / 40 hwy

Performance & Trim

The CT 200h is available in one trim, front wheel drive automatic with a 1.8/110 gas electric I4 engine. Consumption for city driving is 43 miles per gallon and on the highway is 40 miles.

Exterior & Interior

Most people agree that the Lexus CT 200h stays true to the styling preferences of Lexus. However reviewers also agree that it is not the handsomest car of its class nor does it look the sportiest. Deponents strike at the awkward angles, squat rear, and unsightly overhang but proponents defend the car by stating that the 2011 Lexus CT200h stays true to Lexus styling.

Most reviewers agree that materials, use and the build quality is top notch however most deponents find fault in the use of faux leather on a luxury car and believe that interior design may have benefited if more thought was put into a central concept.

Safety

Driving in safety and performance is a hallmark of all Lexus vehicles, the CT200h is no exception. Unfortunately the Federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have yet to crash test the 2011 variant of the Lexus CT200h. However safety specification wise and previous track record of the Lexus CT200h has most reviewers convinced.

Standard safety package includes:

1. a pre-collision system;
2. dynamic radar cruise to automatically maintain a safe distance ;
3. stability and traction control;
4. Safety Connect, that informs emergency and rescue services of a crash when all occupants are; unconscious or incapacitated.

Reliability

Extremely reliable is what the CT200h is all about. This is based on the 2011 model specification and the previous three year care reliability reviews of the model.

Warranty specifications are yet unknown however, the class and unit standard is:

1. A basic warranty of 4 years or 50,000 miles;
2. Power train warranty of six years or 70,000 miles.

Pros & Cons

The advantages of this car are clearly its sturdy design, comparatively low price and fuel economy. One has to remember that this is a hybrid gas/electric car with a fuel consumption of 40 to 43 miles per gallon. Disadvantages for this model are the fact that performance is average at best, and that for the same price consumer’s can actually purchase sportier looking and performing upscale small cars, albeit it will not be as fuel efficient.

The Competition

People who want to look for a sportier alternative can look at the Audi A3 TDI (MSRP $28,100) which provides less fuel economy but more space and faster acceleration. Some consumers may also want to look at the Toyota Prius (MSRP $22,120; 51 city / 48 hwy) has better fuel economy and is outfitted with the same power train.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Lexus CT 200h is an iconic, stylish, and actually quite fun-to-drive car, with Lexus levels of refinement;, and it’s a strong value—both as a way of entering the Lexus brand and as an exciting new green icon.”Car Connection

“Touchy on-center steering makes the CT a bit darty on straight roads. Sport mode amplifies the effect and adds more weight to the steering at low speeds; perhaps too much for some folks. There’s little body lean in fast corners.”Consumer Guide

“Best fuel economy in its segment; attractive price; engaging handling for a hybrid; driver-friendly cabin with superb ergonomics.”Edmunds

September 6, 2011 at 11:22 am | No comment

2010 Dodge Journey

The ongoing trend among today’s crossover SUV has progressively changed – from being a regular vehicle into a sophisticated people carrier. Other than that, crossover vehicles are also designed to stand out more in bad weather and on bad roads. And the 2010 Dodge Journey speaks volumes of why it remains popular in today’s SUV segment.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Crossover MSRP: $22,245.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.5 gallons (77 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 26 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 192.4 in. (488 cm) Width: 72.2 in. (183 cm)
Height: 66.6 in. (169 cm) Wheel Base: 113.8 in. (289 cm)
Curb Weight: 3796 lbs (1721 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.3 in. (18.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 39.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 7 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve VVT DOHC 4-cylinder Displacement: 2.4-liter
Horsepower: 173 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic VLP
0-60 mph: 9.6 seconds 1/4 Mile: 17.1 seconds
Available Trims & Engine
Option:2011 Journey Mainstreet MSRP: $24,445; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:2011 Journey R/T MSRP: $28,445; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:2011 Journey Crew MSRP: $28,445; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:2011 Journey Mainstreet AWD MSRP: $26,145; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:2011 Journey Crew AWD MSRP: $30,145; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:2011 Journey R/T AWD MSRP: $30,145; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:2011 Journey LUX AWD MSRP: $33,645; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

Performance

This current Dodge car offers different trim levels. Under the hood of the base model known as Journey SE is a 2.4L four cylinder engine which produces 173 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque and is paired with four-speed automatic transmission. The SXT and R/T trims come with 3.5 liter V6 engine rated at 235 horsepower and 232 pound-feet of torque and matched with six-speed automatic transmission that can also be manually shifted to offer significant gains in performance and economy.

These trim levels are available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. According to EPA, the FWD can do 19 mpg city and 25 mpg in highway use. On the other hand, the AWD offers a fuel efficiency rate of 15/23 mpg city/highway.

Exterior & Interior

The youthful exuberance of 2010 Dodge Journey starts from the outside with its clean but bold body style. This SUV’s size is also well proportioned to city streets and average garage parking. Any model would turn heads in traffic with its chromed crosshair grille and headlamps and it is also eye catching especially at the front with the Dodge Ram’s head logo. The SE trim displays 16-inch steel wheels and a keyless entry; the SXT comes with upgraded 17-inch alloy wheels, programmed headlamps and heated side mirrors; and the R/T model is striking on the outside with its 19-inch alloy wheels.

Inside, the Dodge Journey can comfortably seat up to seven adults depending on its trim level and can even accommodate a weekend’s worth of luggage or groceries. The base SE features a tilt-and telescoping steering wheel, modern accessories and a six-speaker stereo which also includes a six-disc CD/MP3 changer. The SXT’s enhanced interior exhibits technology advancements such as satellite radio, six-way power driver seat, auto-dimming rearview mirror and a 115-volt power outlet.

This is also more user-friendly with its stain-resistant upholstery. And the Dodge Journey R/T’s premium features include dual-zone automatic climate control, remote start, leather upholstery and heated front seats. The steering wheel with audio controls is also state-of-the-art. With its Bluetooth & iPod compatibility and hard-drive based navigation which incorporates voice commands and real-time traffic monitoring, travel is a delight to any technology savvy individual.

Safety & Reliability

The 2010 Dodge Journey offers impressive safety systems like antilock disc brakes to avoid uncontrollable skids, traction control for car’s protection in slippery roads, and active front head restraints, front-seat airbags & side curtain airbags to help reduce the risk of injury. A rearview camera and second-row child booster seats are optional for added protection. Also inclusive in upper trims are Tire-pressure Monitoring (TPM) and Trailer-sway Control (TSC).

In terms of safety, the Journey is competitive with other SUVs. The federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave it a high rating in front, side and rear crash tests and roof strength assessment. With its standard electronic stability control, the Dodge journey earned a “Top Safety Pick” award. With regards to Predicted Reliability rating, J.D. Power gave the 2010 Journey with a score of 5.0 out of 10. This crossover SUV also offers a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile transferable power train warranty.

The Competition

The Toyota RAV4 (MSRP $22,475; 22 city / 28 hwy)costs only $1,000 more than the Journey, but it has more advanced interior and better fuel economy which rates at 22/28 mpg city/highway. Moreover, a third-row seat is available in RAV4’s base model. The basic Subaru Tribeca (MSRP $30,495; 16 city / 21 hwy) is also an option.

Pros & Cons

The Journey may have an improved interior but the excessive use of hard plastics and unpadded materials do not justify its expensive price. Though it was able to pass the examinations conducted by authorized institutions, still the Journey received safety recalls.

On the positive side, this Dodge vehicle’s base price is the lowest in its SUV category. According to Edmunds, it has sufficient legroom. And the overflowing futuristic accessories on the inside are first class and unbeatable.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2010 Dodge Journey crossover is a mini-minivan and excels in features and safety, but the driving experience leaves a lot to be desired.”Car Connection

“All Journeys have responsive steering with little on-center slop. Softly sprung SE models suffer from a surprising amount of lean in cornering. Tested SXT and R/T models are better poised around corners. All models have responsive brakes with reassuring pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“The 2010 Dodge Journey adds driver and front passenger active head restraints and a larger 9-inch screen for the available entertainment system. The fuel economy rating for the Journey SXT and R/T equipped with the 3.5-liter V6 increase by 1 mpg.”MSN

“The 2010 Dodge Journey offers minivan conveniences without the minivan stigma and pricing, but it’s not refined or capable enough to earn our recommendation.”Edmunds

September 5, 2011 at 3:35 pm | No comment

2010 Dodge Caliber

The 2010 Dodge Caliber is a compact hatchback with four doors from automobile giant Chrysler. It has been rehashed from the past model and some options like the all-wheel drive was removed. However, the interior was upgraded to include more comfort and safety features.

The 2010 model is also made more versatile and the manufacturer even included unique features to take this vehicle a notch higher. This model is also offered in five trim levels. However, some say that the performance of the vehicle just keeps pulling it down the list.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact Wagon Base Price: $17,380.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.6 gallons (51 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 24 city / 32 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 173.8 in. (441 cm) Width: 68.8 in. (174.7 cm)
Height: 60.4 in. (153 cm) Wheel Base: 103.7 in. (263 cm)
Curb Weight: 2940 lbs (1333 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.7 in. (19.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve 4-cylinder VVT DOHC Displacement: 2.0-liter
Horsepower: 158 HP Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Caliber Heat MSRP: $18,585; MPG: 24 city / 32 hwy
Option:Caliber Mainstreet MSRP: $18,620; MPG: 23 city / 27 hwy
Option:Caliber Uptown MSRP: $20,585; MPG: 23 city / 27 hwy

Performance

Under the hood of the Caliber, you will find either an engine with a capacity for 2 liters paired with 141 lb.-feet of torque and 158 horsepower. This engine is actually the standard for all units under this model except for those in the Rush trim level. So for this particular trim, the manufacturer gave an engine capable of 2.4 liters which can give you as much as 172 horsepower as well as 165 lb.-feet of torque.

In terms of transmission, there are two options for the Dodge Caliber. One is the manual transmission with five speeds. And the other is a continuously variable automatic transmission or CVT. But when it comes to handling and breaking, this model gets mixed reviews. There are those who are satisfied; but there are also those who find that the ride seems to be truck-like.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior design and styling, a lot of users, reviewers and experts are pretty much impressed with the aggressive and sporty look of the Caliber. Some reviewers also find the exterior to be chunky and angular. And in terms of functionality, this model really performs very well.

When it comes to the interior design and style, the Caliber also made good impressions with the users, reviewers as well as experts. The front seats are heated and comfortable. More so, they also look sporty because of the leather used coupled with the contrast stitching.

The storage options were also good. This is true for the other interior features as well. The manufacturer even made it a point to include innovative features. One of which is the cooler in the glove box which is a hit among many reviews. The seats and the cargo area are both roomy. So all in all, the interior not only aces style, but functionality as well.

Safety

Safety should also be among your primary concerns when buying cars. The Caliber has received mixed scores. For instance, this model did quite well in the crash tests by the government. However, it disappointed in the side impact tests of the insurance industry.

When it comes to safety features, unlike most cars, the 2010 Caliber does not have anti-lock brakes. And this is actually a big downside when you are talking about safety. However, it has drum brakes for the rear part and disc brakes for the front area.

There are also safety features included in the units for this model. An example will be multi-stage airbags which can be found in all units. Side-curtain airbags can also be found as a supplement in the front and back areas of the vehicle.

Reliability

In terms of reliability, this model did not do very well. It only got a 5 in a total of 10in the Predicted Reliability rating given by the J. D. Power. Warranty information are yet to be released as well.

The Competition

There are a handful of other cars that stack up better against the Caliber, they include the Chevrolet HHR (MSRP $18,720; 22 city / 32 hwy), Honda Civic (MSRP $15,605; 28 city / 36 hwy), and the Mazda3 (MSRP $15,800; 25 city / 33 hwy) to name a few.

All in all, this model has functional and stylish interior. The manufacturers also gave much effort in incorporating innovative and very useful features for this model. However, the reviews for the performance are quite mixed. And in terms of safety, the 2010 Dodge Caliber lacks some vital features which is a big no-no.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s tall and has plenty of headroom as a result, but the Caliber’s styling is a little too angular and overwrought from many angles.”Car Connection

“Caliber handles more like a midsize SUV than a compact car. The steering is dull, body lean in turns is only moderately controlled, and one test model suffered from grabby brakes. A large turning radius adds further frustration.”Consumer Guide

“Despite having some unique features, the versatile 2011 Dodge Caliber is hamstrung by lethargic performance.”Edmunds

“The 2.0-liter engine is noisy and fit and finish is mediocre.”MSN-ConsumerReports

September 5, 2011 at 2:17 pm | No comment

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