2011 Lexus HS 250h

The 2011 Lexus HS250 is a hybrid car manufactured by Lexus which integrates technology with comfort. It has topnotch navigation technology and is easy to use. The navigation system has a screen which is correctly positioned, preventing eye strain and providing maximum visibility. The system of navigation can also be controlled with a voice. It has a capability for monitoring the available energy and the energy consumption. It monitors the car’s battery, electric motor and engine status. This car is also friendly to the environment. It emits a lesser amount of carbon dioxide by using a plant component in its materials.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan Base Price: $36,330.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 35 city / 34 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 184.8 in. (469.5 cm) Width: 70.3 in. (178.5 cm)
Height: 59.3 in. (150.5 cm) Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Curb Weight: 3682 lbs (1670 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.1 in. (15.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.1 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4 Displacement: 2.4-liter
Horsepower: 187 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Engine Type: Hybrid Front high-output, permanent-magnet,electric-drive motor Transmission: ECVT
0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:HS 250h Premium MSRP: $39,100; MPG: 35 city / 34 hwy

Performance

The engine of the Lexus HS consists of the Atkinson cycle with a head and block made of aluminum. It has 2.4 liters of displacement. The valve train has an intelligent variable valve actuation and dual camshaft. The ratio of compression is 12.5 is to 1. The maximum actual horsepower is 187. The motor which is electrically driven has a magnet which is permanent and a motor which is electric in nature. The engine performs sufficiently which can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in just 8.4 seconds. Its maximum speed is 112 miles per hour which is restricted electronically.

The turning of the circle is 37.4 feet. The aerodynamics drag has a coefficient of 0.27. The economy of fuel is rated at 35 miles per gallon for city, 35 miles per gallon for highway and 35 miles per gallon for the combination of city and highway. The transmission is controlled by electronic means. The suspension in front and rear has a bar with stabilizer and absorbs shock by using gas pressure. The brakes which are electronically controlled have four detection sensors.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior is aerodynamically designed, allowing the car to move against the wind with ease. It also provides the car to move quietly. The headlamps are made of three light emitting diodes. These three light emitting diodes consume less energy and imitate the illumination of the normal light. The light emitting diode tail lamps also consume less energy and provide fast light illumination. The outer paint is constructed with superior luster and surface. The car is available in a total of 9 outer paint colors. The car can also be accessed electronically. The car is capable of key detection and can open the doors by touch.

It also employs RADAR technology. This technology reduces the speed of the car when it detects that the space between the car and the car in front of it is too small. The car is also employing the technology of sonar. This technology prevents the car from bumping into an obstruction by providing audible warning. The glass substance is capable of resisting water. It is also capable of reducing the absorption of infrared which greatly reduces the effect of heat inside and outside the car. The car’s interior is available in 7 colors. The interior of the car can also be controlled electronically by a push of a button. It can also be commanded by voice.

Safety

This car offers safety by providing airbags of 10 pieces. The body of the car is also constructed with sufficient reinforcement. The glass is wider which makes the view outside the car more visible. It can also detect and prevent the possibility of colliding with other vehicles.

Pros & Cons

The 2011 Lexus HS offers more advantages compared to other cars of the same class and the same price range. This car provides excellent fuel efficiency. It has navigation system, motor which is electrically driven and key detection capability which other vehicles do not provide.

It 187 horsepower at 6000 rpm with torque of 138 at 4400 revolution per minute. Although 2011 Lexus HS has low torque and horsepower, it is perfect in terms of safety and comfort.

The Competition

Other vehicles worth looking at are the Honda Civic Hybrid (MSRP $24,050; 44 city/ 44 hwy), Infiniti M Hybrid (MSRP $53,700; 27 city/ 32 hwy), and the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid (MSRP $34,645).

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Lexus HS 250h pairs nifty technology features with high mileage ratings, though it fails to provide impressive comfort or an engaging driving experience.”Car Connection

“Body lean is well controlled in fast turns. Steering feels somewhat dead and slow on-center and lacks road feel, but is light for good low-speed maneuverability.”Consumer Guide

“Comfortable, quiet cabin; user-friendly high-tech equipment; safety features; excellent build quality.”Edmunds

“Based on the Toyota Avensis, which is sold in markets outside the U.S., the HS hybrid is smaller than the Toyota Camry and uses the powertrain from the hybrid Camry. It comes with a lot of standard equipment and will have far more luxury features than the Camry hybrid or Prius. At low speeds the HS can propel itself solely on electric power.”MSN-ConsumerReports

August 31, 2011 at 11:22 am | No comment

2011 Nissan Frontier

Once again, the automobile giant Nissan has come up with yet another top notcher—the 2011 Nissan Frontier. As many reviews and satisfied customers say, this compact truck is not only stylish; it is very functional as well. It comes in five trim levels which can either be a King or Crew Cab.

Performance

This model comes in two engines. The base engine for the King and Crew Cabs is a 2.5-liter engine with a four-cylinder capacity that can give you as much as 152 horsepower as well as torque of 171 lb-ft. This comes with a five-speed manual transmission.

On the other hand, there are also trims that come with a 4-liter V6 engine which has as much as 261 horsepower that is equipped with 281 torque of lb-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is now available for newer trims. In the same manner, a six-speed automatic transmission is also available for some models of the King Cabs.

Many satisfied customers also love the fact that the Frontier can provide good off-road performance while scoring well comfortable on-road performance at the same time. In fact, that is quite rare among its competitors.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Pick Up Truck Base Price: $18,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (79.8 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 205.5 in. (521.9 cm) Width: 72.8 in. (184.9 cm)
Height: 68.7 in. (174 cm) Wheel Base: 125.9 in. (24.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3684 lbs (1671 kg) Ground Clearance: 9.8 in. (24.8 cm)
Bed Capacity: 46.8 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16-valve DOHC 4-cylinder Displacement: 2.5-liter
Horsepower: 152 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph (4×4 SE Crew Cab): 7.4 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA seconds
Available Trims & Engine
Option:SV 4-cyl King Cab MSRP: $21,380; MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy
Option:SV V6 King/Crew Cab MSRP: $21,970; MPG: 16 city / 20 hwy
Option:Pro 4X King/Crew Cab MSRP: $26,620; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy
Option:SL Crew Cab 4.0L MSRP: $28,880; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy

Exterior & Interior

If you are a bit picky about the exterior, then you will like the fact that this model gets good ratings for its exterior. The fender flares are big; but they are also smooth. The wheel flares also appear to be muscular. The grille, front fascia, head lights, as well as the stylish alloy wheels all make up for a fierce look.

This model also comes with other exterior features that you will definitely like. For instance, it is equipped with a locking tailgate. In the same manner, it also includes a tough PRO-4X appearance package. As for the V6 models, you have the special feature of a factory spray-on bed-liner as well as an adjustable tie-down system.

When you take a peek inside the 2011 Frontier, you may see that nothing much has changed from the 2009 model.

You will also find an underseat storage in the King Cab models which are removable as well. There are also gauges which are pretty much easy to read. All units also have two glove boxes as well as two 12-volt outlets. In the same manner, this model is equipped with supportive and comfortable front bucket seats. This is also true across all units.

You will also love the fact that the manufacturers paid attention to comfort and convenience inside the vehicle. For instance, they placed the instrument panel in places where you can easily reach and operate them. The seat fabric is not only rugged and comfortable; it is also very easy to clean.

Safety & Reliability

As always, Nissan also made it a point that all units from this model are equipped with features for the safety for their users. For one, all units include side curtain airbags as well as an electronic brake force distribution feature. A 4-wheel anti-lock braking system is already built in the vehicle. V6 models also have an electronic stability system as a standard. Certain models also have an Active Brake Limited Slip. The same is true for the hill start assist and hill descent control systems.

Other safety features are the latch anchor system which is exclusive for the crew cab versions. There are also three-point seatbelts in all seating areas.

Given all these features, it would be very fitting to say that the Frontier is, indeed, very much reliable. However, there are still some points to improve on.

This model also has a limited warranty that covers it for three years/36,000 miles. There is also a power-train warranty for five years or 60,000 miles.

The Competition

As for its competitors, you may want to consider the Suzuki Equator (MSRP $25,279; 15 city / 20 hwy) and Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $16,365; 21 city / 25 hwy). The Ford Ranger (MSRP $18,160; 22 city / 27 hwy) can also be considered as a competitor of the 2011 Nissan Frontier.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“With enough toughness for personal use, as well as a good feature list, the 2011 Nissan Frontier shows that you might not need to go full-size.”Car Connection

“Nicely balanced for a pickup truck. The steering feels weighty and direct, but is slow to react in tight U-turns and parking spots. Body lean is evident in corners but is not excessive for a vehicle of this type.”Consumer Guide

“Sturdy chassis, strong V6; easy-to-use cabin controls; comfortable front seats; stout bed lining and tie-down points; agile handling.”Edmunds

August 30, 2011 at 12:50 pm | No comment

2011 Lexus RX 350

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 is available in two trims. It comes in front wheel drive or an all wheel drive. The RX 350 also has a hybrid variant called that RX 450h. The hybrid has better fuel consumption but also is priced higher. It would take some time then to offset the price through the fuel savings. For this year, the only change noticeable in the RX is the standard break override system. The rest of the features are similar to that of the 2010 model.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $39,075.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.2 gallons (72.5 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 25 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 187.8 in. (477 cm) Width: 74.2 in. (188 cm)
Height: 67.7 in. (172 cm) Wheel Base: 107.9 in. (274 cm)
Curb Weight: 4178 lbs (1895 kg) Ground Clearance: 7.3 in. (18.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 40 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6 Displacement: 3.5-liter
Horsepower: 275 HP Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 257 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic (ECT-i)
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds Maximum Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:RX 350 AWD MSRP: $40,475; MPG: 18 city / 24 hwy

Performance

The RX 350 front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive are powered by a 3.5 liter V6 engine. The valve train on both is aided by a 4-cam, four-valve per cylinder with dual variable valve timing with intelligence, with an acronym VVT-i. VVT-I maximizes the use of intake and exhaust through a range of engine speeds, this flexible feature in engine technology increases the torque at lower speeds, while also increasing the horsepower at high speeds. This feature undoubtedly improves engine performance and fuel economy.

Interior & Exterior

The RX’s interior is available in three colors. Navigation is made simple by the Heads-Up Display, which also makes all the information you need available easy to read. Front seats are heated and ventilated which makes for comfortable driving.

As in most Lexus vehicles, you can choose from nine colors for the exterior. Among the standard features available include : adaptive front lighting, back-up camera, and water-repellent windows making for better visibility when its raining, these are just to name a few.

Safety

The Lexus RX350 also boasts of the 10-airbag system, a leader in its class. The body is reinforced structurally in addition crumple zones in both rear and front of the vehicle. The ABS braking system aids the driver avoid accidents.

Overview

The Lexus R350 remains one of a kind SUV for a combination of comfortable and luxurious insides with excellent performance as well as fuel economy. Many reviews would agree that the RX 350 is among the best of its class of SUVs offered today in the market. Although it is not meant for off-road driving, many reviewers would comment that truly the Lexus RX excels when it comes to elegant design and comfortable luxury.

There are also complaints about the RX but they are relatively few. Some complain about a noisy cabin. Others would also say that the ride lacks the sportiness of a midsize SUV. There are other option packages for the Lexus RX which could set back the buyer for thousands. However, the RX also has a relatively low initial price compared to most vehicles in its class. Thus, considering the added options or features, it may still cost less. Many reviewers though concede that the RX is a difficult vehicle to beat. This SUV has even been given an as the best in its category and price range.

The Competition

The 2011 Lexus RX 350 could be difficult to beat for the features it has in its class but this does not stop other automakers for trying. One favorite is the Acura MDX. It is said to even be sportier and thus more fun compared to the Lexus RX350. The Acura MDX has all wheel drive as a standard plus it could seat up to 7 people. However, pricewise, the starting price of the Acura MDX (MSRP $42,930; 16 city / 21 hwy) is $4,000 more than that of the RX. The fuel efficiency of the RX is also much better compared to the MDX. It is when an all-wheel drive is equipped that the price differential goes down significantly.

Because the RX is not the biggest midsize SUV and has set a price that is relatively low in its class, the car buyer ought to compare it against other luxury compact SUVs. For instance, the Audi Q5 (MSRP $35,200; 20 city / 27 hwy) has interiors that are at par in luxury as the RX although its back seat is comparably smaller. The Lexus RX and the Audi Q5 start at approximately similar price tag and has the same fuel economy.

Pros

  • Easy to drive
  • It has refined cabin features
  • Has a host of high-tech features that are user-friendly
  • The 2010 RX earned excellent scores in government and insurance industry crash tests
  • It is also covered by basic warranty for 50,000 miles (which is equivalent to four years)

Cons

  • Lacks sportiness
  • Thousands of dollars needed to get the optional features
  • The only new feature in the 2011 version versus the 2010 version is the standard break override system. Thus, it is difficult to tell what exactly is new.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“Much of the appeal of the 2011 Lexus RX 350 and RX 450h rests in the way they provide comfort and security to driver and passengers while sealing out the world.”Car Connection

“Agile handling is not the RX’s forte, but both RX 350 and 450h are competent enough on twisty roads.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Lexus RX 350 leads when it comes to providing a plush ride, a luxurious cabin and everyday utility. For most buyers, those attributes should be enough to overcome its rather lifeless driving dynamics.”Edmunds

“The RX is one of the well-rounded upscale SUVs. It balances a refined powertrain and comfortable ride with well-planned details and a very quiet interior.”MSN-Consumer Reports

August 30, 2011 at 11:08 am | No comment

2012 Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4

Super cars and sports cars have already been all too familiar to us that upon hearing one, a spark of interest is seldom raised. Yes, many different companies such as Ferrari and Porsche are still on the top of the super cars and sports cars manufacturing chain but as insatiable human beings we are in a constant search for something better. This year, super cars and sports cars are a thing of the past as hyper cars enter the scene. You heard that right, hyper cars are the new show stopper. Lamborghini has recently launched yet another hyper car. The 2012 lamborghini Aventador LP-700-4.

Performance

In terms of its performance, the company has already stated that the V12 engine will be the only thing to provide power into this hyper car but a newer, more legendary engine than the previous V12 engine. It now comes with AWD layout and 6.5 liter V12 engine which then produces 700 horsepower. This is the newest engine Lamborghini has made since they released the Countach.

It has a whopping 700 horsepower engine which can go from 0-62 mph in a matter of 2.9 seconds – faster than its predecessors and competitors which take about 3.6 seconds to reach that speed. The new Lamborghini Aventador LP-700 4 is the new attention grabbing, sleek model from Lamborghini that is sure to take the car industry by storm. This new model is named after the bull that entered a battle in 1993 in Saragossa Arena and earned the title of Trofeo de la Pena La Madronera due to its incomparable courage. Indeed, this new model will take the road with courage to go up and compete with the many super cars and sports cars already making a name in the industry.

Exterior & interior

The exterior of this model is designed with intricate aerodynamics calculations to make it move faster but retain handling and maneuverability. It has a 4-degree angle approach which is maximized on high speed and supports stability in moving in different directions upon reaching the top end of a spectrum. While the 11-degree tilts helps maximize stability and handling and at the same time carries on midrange speeds, significantly greater down force.

At the front part of this car, it gets better air guide further accentuated by frames that are glossy and black, and headlights that are bi-xenon made. These headlights spread starting from the middle and another set of LED lights operates the turn signals. Customers were happy to hear that they have options on the car’s exterior colors. There are 13 colors to choose from and different color effects such as pastel metallic, matte, and pearlescent.

Interior-wise, a hyper car cannot get more hi-tech than this. The new instrumentation gauges used in this model resembles those used on jet planes with LCD screens displaying instrumentations in your car while another independent system and LCD screen controls the navigation functions of this model and the stereo. The sleek leather material of the seats is made with a single color with contrasting stitching available in many different colors.

This car is the extreme when it comes to design, technology, performance and standards. Lamborghini is setting new highs in terms of standards and design in the industry of hyper cars.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe-Midsize Est. Price: $379,700.00
Performance
Engine: 6.5L V12 Horsepower: 700 HP
Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic-Manual Maximum Seating: 2 people
0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds Best Speed: 220 mph (354 km/h)

August 30, 2011 at 4:00 am | 50 comments

2011 Kelleners Sport KS1-S BMW 1 Series M Coupe

The Kellener Sport KS1-S BMW 1 Series M coupe is the resulting car when the BMW I Series M Coupe is converted into a modern sports car by Kelleners Sport. The transformation is complete starting with the adjustable coilover kit and supplementary front spoiler, 20 inch light alloy wheels, and a comprehensive leather interior make-over. Engine power is upped to a strong 410 Horse Power output and the newly installed light weight body and suspension parts all combine to make the Kelleners KS1-S a unique modern car based on a classic and legendary car design.

The exquisite transformation accomplished is evident in the over-all performance of the resulting 2011 Kelleners Sport KS-S BMW series M Coupe. The changes in engine displacement and light weight body construction into a substantial decline in weight to power ratio giving the car engine more capacity for quick acceleration and high speed.

The perfectly constructed 83 mm tail pipe provide unrestricted engine outflow making the mufflers give a distinctive sound. The aero dynamics systems installed by Kellener Sports provide maximum efficiency at high speeds. The improvements made on the suspension system give the car more stability in terms of active response to road conditions and/or driver’s maneuvers.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $46,135.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 gallons (52.9 liters) Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 26 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 172.4 in. (437.8 cm) Width: 71 in. (180 cm)
Height: 55.9 in. (141.9 cm) Wheel Base: 104.7 in. (265.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3362 lbs (1525 kg) Gross Weight: 4255 lbs (1930 kg)
Luggage Capacity: 10 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: M TwinPower Turbo inline-6 Displacement: 3.0 liter
Horsepower: 410* HP Max RPM: 5900 RPM
Torque: 406 lb-ft* @ 1500-4500 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249kmh)

*Modified Specifications

August 29, 2011 at 6:31 pm | No comment

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