2011 Audi A6

When a person asks friends what their choice for the best large luxury car, then it would not be surprising to hear if they all answer Audi in a chorus. For many years, this German company has been famous for its fine production of cars that have emphasis on a gorgeous interior and exterior designs, safety assurance, and fuel efficiency. There have been many popular choices under this company, but as far as luxury cars are concerned then no choice would be more popular than the Audi A6.

Performance

The 2011 Audi A6 is available in several trims. You have the option to choose between a 3.2, 3.0T and the 4.2 engine. The 3.2 engine is the most basic trim. It is available in Premium trim, which has 17-inch wheels fitted with tires for all seasons, an S Line interior, 12-way power seats covered with leather, the MMI Navigation Plus system, Bluetooth connectivity for cellular phones, and a Sirius XM Satellite Radio. Next is the Premium Plus, which has all the features mentioned earlier plus the 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, xenon plus headlights and LED running lights for daytime.

The 3.0T engine also has its own set of trims, which include Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The Premium trim offers the same features, except for the heated front seats. The Premium Plus trim of this engine has the same features with the 3.2 one. The Prestige trim has all the features of the Premium Plus with the addition of an advanced key, a parking system with a rearview camera, a BOSE 5.1 Surround System, and a shift paddle-mounted steering wheel. The last trim is the 4.2 FSI Prestige, which has all the features of the 3.0T Prestige.

The A6 is a luxury car that boasts exceptional performance. The best feature that this car has is its Quattro all-wheel drive system, a stability system that makes other cars from leading brands look like bicycles that need training wheels. All in all, the car feels secure on the road even at high speeds. With regard to the exterior design of the car, the company did a good job to make it a sleek-looking vehicle.

Interior

The A6 may have a complex Multi-Media Interface or an engine that requires premium fuel, but its elegant cabin, exceptional Quattro all-wheel drive feature, impressive safety measures, and powerful and fuel-efficient V6 engine makes it a worthwhile purchase.

Exterior & Safety

The careful details like the placement of the LED lights, the grilles, and other lines and curves make it look neat and classy. The interior also looks brilliantly arranged and constructed, but the addition of the Multi-Media Interface System seems to make the controls a lot confusing. However, what mostly makes this car a shining jewel of Audi is its safety assurance. It has all the necessary features that performed well in the official crash and hazard tests of the government, which include the company’s new Electronic Stabilization Program that monitors the wheels for slips and prevents skids with the use of brakes just in case, a set of front-side, front and side head curtain airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners, and head restraints. The reliability though is somewhat mediocre with its four-year or 50000-mile warranty and four-year or 50000-mile powertrain warranty only.

Competition

Some people might consider searching for other alternatives. If that is the case, then the most likely choices are the BMW 528i-series (MSRP $45,050; 22 city/32 hwy) or the Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedans (MSRP $ 49,400; 17 city/ 24 hwy), which look also classy like the A6, and they have all-wheel drive functions as well. The Audi A4 may also be a good option since it is smaller and most importantly because it has a lot of features at a more affordable cost.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“All A6 models have Audi’s MMI control that uses a console knob and switches, and a dashboard screen to adjust audio, climate, and other functions.”Consumer Guide

“The A6 is beginning to show its age. Handling is responsive and secure, but the low-speed ride is quite firm. AWD is available. The 3.0-liter supercharged V6 delivers effortless power and good fuel economy. The seats are excellent, and the interior is well finished and filled with nice details. IIHS crash-test results are impressive.”Consumer Report

“The understated yet luxurious 2011 Audi A6 is a solid all-around effort, particularly in 3.0T configuration with its supercharged V6. It deserves consideration alongside its capable European and Japanese rivals.”Edmunds

“As before, Audi’s midsize model comes as a sedan and a wagon, called the Avant. It competes with the BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M sedan, Lexus GS sedan and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.”Cars.com

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Sedan Base Price: $45,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 30 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 194 in. (493 cm) Width: 79.9 in. (201 cm)
Height: 57.4 in. (146 cm) Weight: 3858 lbs (1750 kg)
Wheel Base: 111.9 in. (284 cm) Ground Clearance: 4.6 in. (11.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5
Performance
Engine: Audi 3.2L 24-valve DOHC V6 Compession Ratio: 12.5:1
Horsepower: 265 hp Max RPM: 6500 rpm
Torque: 243 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm Transmission: Audi Multitronic® continuously variable transmission (CVT)
0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds 1/4 Mile: NA
Available Trims & Engine
Option:3.2 Premium Plus MSRP: $46,900; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:3.0T Premium MSRP: $50,200; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:3.0T Premium Plus MSRP: $51,600; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:3.0T Prestige MSRP: $53,400; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:4.2Prestige MSRP: $59,150; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

July 22, 2011 at 1:00 pm | No comment

2011 Wittera Chevrolet Corvette C5 Wide Body

What is with the 2011 Wittera Chevrolet Corvette C5 Wide Body? Aside from the fact that it is certainly one of the best cars that has a wider range of colors than any other, the Corvette C5 is a sophisticated and modern interpretation of an elegantly classic car. Sports cars have always been icons of the American driving experience, but Wittera did such a great job on the Chevrolet Corvette C5 Wide Body that no one would be able to deny its uniqueness.

The standard Chevrolet C5 has been improved and upgrades have been done to make it look exactly how it does – simple yet eye-catching. There are more than enough choices to choose from especially made to suit the different tastes one has in a car, and you have to admit it, Wittera did a great job on those options. You can choose deeper or flatter bumpers, with the first one highlighting the curves of the wide body front, and the second one for those that have significantly lower suspension.

Carbon fiber could always be used, while there is a cheaper option of a reinforced plastic made from glass fibre. Wheels are of many and different choosing and Wittera would help you fit all these options seamlessly in your 2011 Wittera Chevrolet Corvette C5 Wide Body.

July 21, 2011 at 6:23 pm | 3 comments

2011 Ford E-Series

The 2011 Ford E-Series is one of the options for consumers looking for a passenger van. Those who want a vehicle that can transport many passengers and cargo will find good use of this vehicle.

The updates to the E-Series made it better but not that class-leading. But for customers who prioritize towing, the E-Series may be the best option. It has a towing capacity of 10,000 pounds which is 300 pounds more than that of the Chevrolet Express or GMC Savana.

Unless the space and towing capacity of the E-Series is absolutely necessary, reviewers advise consumers to consider minivans because they have lots of space for cargo and passengers but use less fuel than a work van.

Performance

The 2011 Ford E-Series offers a choice between two models: the E-150 and the E-350. Both have a range of V8 or V10 engines. These engines can run on E85 (85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline), pure gasoline, or any mix in between.

In the E-150, the base engine is the 4.6 liter V8. It makes 225 horsepower and 286 pound-feet of torque. Many reviewers point out that this certain engine is not up to heavy loads and that the better choice is the 5.4 liter V8, which makes 255 horsepower and 350 pound-feet of torque. In the E-350 model, the 5.4 V8 is the basic engine. However, consumers can opt for the 6.8 liter V10 engine capable of 350 horsepower and 420 pound-feet of torque. There are no diesel engines available.

Exterior

The E-Series’ exterior design hasn’t changed much from its 1992 design. It offers wide-opening rear doors and swinging doors on the passenger side as standard, while a sliding cargo door is optional. On the driver’s side, there is only the driver’s door.

Interior

One of the good points of the E-Series is its technological component. Features such as the Ford’s Work Solutions and the SYNC system make the E-Series functional and entertaining, whichever the customer needs. Paired with a user-friendly console, these features make the E-Series good for family and business trips alike.

Ford’s Work Solutions computer system is one good feature of the E-Series. Its in-dash computer developed by Magneti Marelli and powered by Microsoft Auto provides fast Internet access through the Sprint Mobile Broadband Network and Navigation by Garmin. The system can be fitted with tool tracking and fleet tracking capabilities. This makes the E-Series ideal for businesses that are in need of tracking and keeping in contact with its vehicles. This enables easier management and dispatch of multiple vehicles, which helps in saving time and fuel.

The E-Series passenger wagons’ sitting capacity lets the user take up a number of passengers – a total of 12, or up to 15 in extended models. The cargo can models provide a standard seating for two but an optional second-row bench seat is offered. This optional seating is removable and does not compromise cargo space so much. It allows transport of an entire work crew, which helps save fuel in the long run for small businesses.

The cargo space of the E-series can go head-to-head with most competitors. While it cannot beat the cargo space of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, it is not as expensive and most consumers can fit their cargo in the E-Series just fine.

Safety

The E-Series only has the very basic safety features unlike other vans which have mostly upgraded safety features. Also, it hasn’t been subjected to most federal government crash tests.

Reliability

The 2011 Ford E-Series scores quite high on reliability. It has a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile warranty. Some competitors have the same bumper-to-bumper warranty but a longer five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranties.

The Competition

General Motors’ Chevrolet Express (MSRP $28,710.00; 13 city / 17 hwy) and GMC Savana (MSRP $24,985.00; 13 city / 17 hwy) both feature an all-wheel drive and side airbags which the E-Series lacks.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (MSRP $39,820.00) offers diesel engine and has a ‘High-roof’ option available for more cargo. The E-Series beats it in towing capacity though.

Pros and Cons

The technology fitted in the 2011 Ford E-Series makes it ideal for business. It also has the formidable towing capacity that is not matched by other vehicles of the same type.

As for the disadvantages, the E-Series, being a work van, doesn’t boast much on fuel economy. It is inferior in safety features. The lack of a diesel option and all-wheel drive function limits its versatility.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others Say:

Its roomy cargo bay is lower than that of the GM full-size vans or the Dodge Sprinter’s.Consumer Reports

Moving lots of cargo and people is what the E-Series does best, so if this is a priority for you or your business, the 2011 Ford E-Series is the vehicle for you. In addition to its gasoline-powered models, Ford also produces vans that can run on compressed natural gas (CNG) or E85.KBB

Owners of 2010 E-Series Wagons complain mostly of dated styling and understandably poor gas mileage. Reliability, however, as well as capacious seating room, massive cargo space, scads of high-tech options, and a smooth ride top the list of owner kudos.Car Gurus

The E-Series is available as a commercial van and as a passenger van, which can carry up to 15 people. Formerly called the Econoline, the E-150 competes with the Chevrolet Express and Dodge Sprinter.Cars.com

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Commercial/Passenger Van Base Price: $ 26,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 33 gallons Miles Per Gallon: N/A
Dimensions
Length: 216.7 in. (550 cm) Width: 79.4 in. (202 cm)
Height: 82.4 in. (209 cm) Weight: 3260 lbs (1479 kg)
Wheel Base: 138 in. (351 cm) Ground Clearance: N/A
Luggage Capacity: Max. Cargo Vol. 238 cu ft Maximum Seating: 2/5
Performance
Engine: 4.6L Triton® 16-valve flex fuel V8 Displacement: N/A
Horsepower: 225 hp Max RPM: 4800 rpm
Torque: 286 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm Transmission: 4-speed automatic overdrive
0-60 mph: N/A 1/4 Mile: N/A
Available Trims & Engine
Option: E-250 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $27,235; MPG: Varies
Option:E-150 Extended 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $27,445; MPG: Varies
Option:E-250 Extended 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $28,590; MPG: Varies
Option:E-150 Recreational 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $30,630; MPG: Varies
Option:E-250 Recreational 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $31,155; MPG: Varies
Option:E-350 Commercial 5.4L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $31,395; MPG: Varies
Option:E-250 Recreational Extended 4.6L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $31,830; MPG: Varies
Option:E-350 Commercial Extended 5.4L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $32,295; MPG: Varies
Option:E-350 Recreational 5.4L Triton® EFI V8 MSRP: $33,905; MPG: Varies
Option:E-350 Recreational Extended MSRP: $34,890; MPG: Varies

July 21, 2011 at 5:48 pm | No comment

2011 Wheelsandmore Audi R-Stream V10 Spyder

Wheelsandmore has done a great job again and this time, it is with the much anticipated 2011 Wheelsandmore Audi R-Stream V10 Spyder. It was in 2010 when the tuning company did a great job on the Audi R8 V10 Coupe, and it really came as no surprise when they were chosen to dress up the V10 Spyder too.

Performance and appearance seem to have come in one as the Wheelsandmore Audi R-Stream V10 Spyder. Its V10 engine holds 5.2L and 600 horsepower from the standard 525 horsepower. Sporty and timeless – this car went from beautiful to exceptional with its handling, support and overall performance at the brink. If you are on a bumpy road (literally), drive your car and add as much as 40mm of road clearance to avoid damage to your car. The black matte highlights of the car is what made it look sporty, while the main color of the car is just a smooth, modern one.

How did Wheelsandmore do it? They started on the ECU, and gave the exhaust system a boost by using stainless, handcrafted steel with remote-able valve flaps. Wheel upgrades from Wheelsandmore made the 2011 Wheelsandmore Audi R-Stream V10 Spyder an exceptionally beautiful car.

Specifications
Vehicle Type: Modified Roadster Est.Miles Per Gallon: 12 city / 19 hwy
Engine: 5.2 Liter FSI V10 Horsepower: 600 hp
Max RPM: 8000 rpm Torque: 590 lb-ft
Displacement: 5204 cc Curb Weight: 3715 lbs (1685 kg)
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds Maximum Speed: 194 mph (312 kmh)

July 20, 2011 at 6:23 pm | 1 comment

2011 Ford Expedition

There may be a few consumers looking for large SUV’s but for those who are, the 2011 Ford Expedition is a nice option.

This large SUV has a roomy interior and very high on sheer strength in performance. It is very ideal for consumers looking for a vehicle that can haul many passengers, can carry cargo and can tow in great levels.

Performance and Engine

The performance of the Ford Expedition is very good in comparison to what users would expect from a large vehicle. This can be owed to the independent rear suspension, which smoothes out bumps.

The Expedition is fitted with the 5.4 liter V8 engine which gives it a capacity of 310 horsepower side by side with 365 pound-feet torque. This is paired with a standard six-speed automatic transmission. Those who want to drive off-road have a choice of a four-wheel drive layout.

For a large SUV, the fuel economy of the Expedition is average. EPA estimates 14/20 mpg city/highway rating for 2WD driving and 12/17 on 4WD versions. The braking, although decent, requires room to make a complete stop.

The Ford Expedition boasts great power in towing. It can tow up to 9,200 pounds.

Exterior

The exterior look of the Expedition is respectable but it looks very much like a conventional large SUV. Most reviewers still find the Expedition handsome, though.

Having very large proportions, the Expedition proves to be hard to maneuver generally.

Interior

While the exterior is very rugged looking, the interior of the Expedition proves to be impressive with its large space and cargo capability. Some reviewers complain about the numerous buttons on the dash and wish that there were more technological features that is present on its smaller cousins.

The 2011 Ford Expedition seats up to eight people. The bucket seats receive praise from reviewers. The second and third-row seats are not that appealing for most. However, this issue is common for its class. Considering that, the Expedition fares better than most competitors.

The cargo space is an aspect the Expedition owns bragging rights about. The 131 total cubic feet of space is easy to access due to its easy-to-fold rear seats.

Safety and Reliability

Some safety measures that are standard on the Expedition are antilock disc brakes with brake assist, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, and a rollover-sensing stability control system. It also has the MyKey, a programmable system which would enable parents to set limits for speed and volumes of stereo for their driving teens, as a standard. Each model is also equipped with Trailer Sway Control, a system that uses the existing stability control sensors to detect the sway of the trailer. In case of a sway, it applies clear-cut braking and throttle tunings to assist in making the vehicle and the trailer stable.

The 2011 Expedition has not yet gone through crash tests. It should be noted though, that the 2010 models faired quite high on government crash tests. But then, the tests have been updated so it’s still best to wait for the results.

The 2011 Ford Expedition reliability scores 5.0 out of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating by J.D. Power and Associates. The basic bumper-to-bumper warranty is for the first three years or 36,000 miles. The powertrain warranty is for five years or 60,000 miles. It also has a corrosion perforation protection warranty for five years, disregarding miles.

The Competition

Side-by-side its closest competition in the large SUV category, the 2011 Ford Expedition rank almost equal in interior accommodations with the Chevrolet Tahoe (MSRP $42,830.00; 15 city/21 hwy) and GMC Yukon (MSRP $38,945.00; 15 city/21 hwy). These two beats the Expedition in gas mileage, though. Also, these have their hybrid counterparts. What should be mentioned is that hybrids costs more money.

Pros and Cons

To summarize, the 2011 Ford Expedition brags heavy towing capacity and large cargo space. Its third row is very suitable for adult passengers.

Some flaws would be in the handling, being a heavy vehicle. The braking is also not up to par.

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

Expedition is a Best Buy for those who genuinely need the power and space of a large truck-type SUV. Interior materials trail those of some competitors, but for useful power, cargo space, passenger room, and surprisingly adept handling, this Ford merits serious consideration…” Consumer Guide

The 2011 Ford Expedition is a lot more civilized than its truck-based roots might imply, making it a fine choice for those who need a vehicle with large passenger, cargo and towing capacities.Edmunds

… For its part the 2011 Expedition and its long-wheelbase EL stablemate offer loads of space for passengers and cargo while maintaining a (relatively) carlike demeanor courtesy of their four-wheel independent suspension.cargurus

For those who have to haul people and tow, the 2011 Ford Expedition provides truck toughness in a well-rounded wagon.The Car Connection

The Expedition has a good interior and an independent suspension, which allows the comfortable third-row seat to fold flat into the floor. ESC and three-row curtain air bags are standard. The noisy V8 felt sluggish and returned 13 mpg overall. Handling is responsive for such a large SUV, and towing capacity is generous.Consumer Report

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $ 36,270.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 14 city / 20 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 206.5 in. (525 cm) Width: 78.8 in. (200 cm)
Height: 77.2 in. (196 cm) Weight: 7239 lbs (3284 kg)
Wheel Base: 119 in. (302 cm) Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm) unladen
Luggage Capacity: Max. Cargo Vol. 108.3 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8
Performance
Engine: 5.4L Triton SOHC 3V Flex Fuel V8 Displacement: 5408
Horsepower: 310 hp Max RPM: 5100 rpm
Torque: 365 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm Transmission: 6-speed automatic overdrive
0-60 mph: 9.1 Seconds Max Towing Capacity: 9200 lbs (4173 kgs)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:XL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $37,275; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:XLT – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $38,815; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:XL EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $39,925; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:XLT EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $41,525; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:Limited – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $45,485; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:King Ranch – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $46,755; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:Limited EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $48,135; MPG: 18 city / 24 hwy
Option:King Ranch EL – 5.4L 3V SOHC flex-fuel V8 engine MSRP: $49,405; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

July 20, 2011 at 5:48 pm | No comment

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