2011 Toyota Land Cruiser

Now on its 60th year, the 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a flexible vehicle that can be used both for on-road trips and off-road travel. Although it is more expensive than its competitors, its quality is worth it.

In terms of performance, it is rated to be very good. With both great off-road and comfortable on-road abilities, it does not fail to amaze people. Unfortunately, it also gulps down a lot of gas just like other SUVs. It has a 5.7-liter V8 engine that can run at a powerful 381 horsepower. It has a 6-speed automatic transmission and can pull a weight of 8,200 tons which is more than what other SUVs of its kind can do. Steering this vehicle is easy considering that it is huge. It can be described as a tamed large vehicle.

Its exterior is average and a bit boring compared to other SUVs that have unique and appealing exteriors these days. Its interior on the other hand is very good and comfortable with many features. It can seat eight people on its leather-wrapped seats in all of its three rows. The front row seats can be adjusted in ten different ways. The third row is ideal for children.

A New Tradition

The interior also features a CD changer that can accommodate 6 CDs, Bluetooth phone and audio streaming wireless technology, and USB port with IPod connectivity. Its cargo space however fails to impress because it is only 16.1 cubic feet when the third row is utilized. The latter also has too much storage space such as storage pockets, cup holders that can hold twelve pieces of cups and bottles, and center and overhead consoles.

This vehicle has yet to be tested this year by the federal government for its safety; but it does have quite a few security features. It has the four-wheel anti-lock brakes and brake assist. It also has Vehicles Stability Control and Active Traction Control. All these assure the safety of the driver and the passengers.

Furthermore, it has the Smart Stop Technology that lessens the power of its engine whenever the driver steps on both the brake and accelerator simultaneously. To assure the driver that it can park it easily without any damage, it has the standard parking sensors which alerts the driver of a nearby obstacle. This is such a helpful feature especially since this vehicle is big. To ensure that children are safe when they are inside this vehicle during a ride, they have integrated a pair of latch child seat connectors within.

In terms of reliability, the 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser has a 36 month or 36000 mile limited warranty and a Powertrain warranty of 60 months or 60,000 miles. It also has rust-through coverage for five years no matter the number of miles that has been logged.

There have been issues with this vehicle’s defective monitoring systems for its tires. Toyota has made the necessary corrections.

The Toyota Land Cruiser still maintains its high reputation of being both a family SUV and an off-road vehicle. Its versatility is what kept its presence around for 6 decades. Its expensive price tag is not an issue since people know that such a strong and reputable vehicle deserves its cost. Its performance and design is what kept it alive through the years, and no doubt Toyota will always have it in its family for a long time.

The SuperCars Overall Rating = 72/100

What others say:

“It is quick, quiet, comfortable, and refined, but not agile. It rides very comfortably and the interior is roomy and well finished.”Consumer Reports

“The Land Cruiser’s off-road capabilities are prodigious, thanks in part to its rugged body-on-frame construction and in part to its wide range of assistive technologies…”The Car Connection

“Land Cruiser lends its basic design to the Lexus LX 570 from Toyota’s premium division.”Consumer Guide

“Combining the best attributes of a luxury car, a minivan, a serious off-road 4×4 and perhaps even a full-size pickup, the Land Cruiser is a single vehicle that can satisfy many needs.”KBB

“The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is an elite SUV, delivering both strong off-road capabilities and a smooth around-town ride. But like any well-built vehicle straddling two worlds, it comes with both a weight penalty and a hefty price tag.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Base Price: $ 68,920.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 18 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 194.9 in. (495cm) Width: 77.6 in. (197cm)
Height: 74 in. (188 cm) Weight: 5765 lbs (2614 kg)
Wheel Base: 112.2 in. (285cm) Ground Clearance: 8.9 in. (22.6cm) (unladen)
Luggage Capacity: Cargo Vol. 81.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 8
Performance
Engine: 5.7-Liter DOHC 32-Valve V8 with Dual Independent Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) Displacement: N/A
Horsepower: 381 hp Torque: 401 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm
Max RPM: 5600 rpm Transmission: 6-speed ECT-i automatic Transmission
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds Towing Capacity 8200 lbs (3719 kgs)

June 21, 2011 at 3:39 am | 1 comment

2011 Toyota Avalon

The 2011 Toyota Avalon has made improvements from the previous series with the new styling of the front and rear of the car in addition to several standard features. The new series has proven to be better in performance, a lot more efficient in fuel consumption than most of its competitors. The series has been popular because of its outstanding performance in the road, particularly the highways. At high speeds, the 2011 Toyota Avalon’s cabin remains silent so it does bother you when driving in the highways.

The V6 Engine possessed by the 2011 series has loads of power, increasing its efficiency and the suspension prevents potential road-caused damages with no failure. It is also recommended for those who like to power steering that is easy to manage, because the steering wheel of the 2011 Toyota Avalon is light to the touch. Despite this, it has no negative effects when it comes to its response.

The 2011 model is not all about performance and manageability; this model is also known for its fuel efficiency. The estimates for the Avalon’s fuel mileage reside at 29mpg highway and 20mpg city. That clearly shows that the 2011 Toyota Avalon is one of the most fuel efficient cars offered by Toyota. The 2011 model also operates in Unleaded Gas which is known for being a clean type of gas. So not only is the 2011 model fuel efficient, it is environmental friendly.

More Features

Exterior features of the 2011 Toyota Avalon has dimensions of 197.6 inches in length, 72.8 inches in width, 58.5 inches in height, 111.0 inches wheelbase, 36.9 ft. in curb-to-curb turning circle and 61.6 inches in the rear track. With the luxury trims and the offered colors for the 2011 series, the exterior is an overall “exceptional” and so is the interior. The interior has an attractive layout, worthy of a 10 / 10. The newly designed center stack and dash is very enticing and the front and rear seats are accommodating and comfortable.

The standard arsenal of the 2011 series includes outstanding features such as 17-inch alloy oriented wheels, an incredible lighting system with fog-lights, automatic headlights and auto dimming features, leather-covered upholstery, shift knob and wheel, a dual zone automatic climate control, a nine speaker stereo installed with the usual in-demand input slots, steering wheels with tilt and telescoping features, a Bluetooth sensor and many more.

All this contributed to the 2011 Toyota Avalon’s success in the market. The Limited edition shows more outstanding features like Xenon headlights, a power driving seat adjustment addition, a sunshade, a voice-activated navigation system, a stronger stereo compared to the non-Limited edition and many more. The quest to finding the Limited edition is harder than everyone thought but the new features offered in it answers the hardships sought very well.

Safety

Safety assurance is one of the most remarkable features that the 2011 Toyota Avalon has to offer. For public consideration, the Toyota Avalon scored a perfect five stars in the crash test issued by the government. It is five stars for the front and side impacts, showing a very good safety level. It is to be noted as well that in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Toyota Avalon also earned the top score in frontal and side impacts. When it comes to safety, people have no need to worry when they are in a Toyota Avalon. It is equipped with airbags, anti-lock disc brakes, front head restraints and more. Overall, the 2011 Toyota Avalon is great in all aspects and is a recommendable car for everyone.

The SuperCars Overall Rating = 81/100

What others say:

“The ride is comfortable and although handling isn’t that agile, it is ultimately secure.”Consumer Reports

“While the 2011 Toyota Avalon looks like a cushy luxury cruiser, it can perform—at least on the straight. The 3.5-liter V-6 puts out 268 horsepower with a little more pronounced sound than an Avalon ever has, and feeds it out to the front wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission.”The Car Connection

“The 2011 Avalon reprises its powertrain from the 2010 version. Its sole engine is a 268-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that teams with a 6-speed automatic transmission.”Consumer Guide

“A bit expensive for its class, refined nature leaves little room for flair or personality, rear seats do not fold.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Large Sedan Base Price: $ 33,195.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5gallons Miles Per Gallon: 20 city / 29 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 197.6 in. (502cm) Width: 72.8 in. (185cm)
Height: 58.5 in. (149cm) Weight: 3572 lbs (1620kg)
Wheel Base: 111 in. (282cm) Ground Clearance: 5.3 in. (13.4 cm) (unladen)
Luggage Capacity: Cargo Vol. 14.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5
Performance
Engine: 3.5 Liter DOHC 24-Valve V6 Dual Ind VVTi Displacement: N/A
Horsepower: 268 hp Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm
Max RPM: 6200 rpm Transmission: 6-speed EC automatic overdrive Transmission
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds 1/4 Mile: 15.6 seconds
Available Trims
Option:Avalon Limited MSRP: $36,435; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy

June 20, 2011 at 3:37 am | No comment

1966 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 in New York City

Two exceptional cars, one illustrious lineage: the 2012 JAGUAR XJ LWB Supercharged range reflects the elegance, performance and spirit of the earlier E-Type Series of the 1960s that took the streets of New York City USA by storm. Unlike the E-Type Jaguar that defined an entire era reminiscent of Sinatra, McQueen and Bardot (all of whom were distinguished owners of the E-Type), the incipient XJ Jaguar models are smartly designed to adapt with the present times yet deliver power mixed with sophistication germane to all full-fledged Jaguar automobiles.

While the iconic E-Type sports car blazed the trail with its 4.2 liter V8 engine (265 HP at 5,500 rpm) amped with triple SU carburetors (considered unprecedented during those times) that lets it sprint from 0-60 mph in 7 seconds, the new & promising Jaguar XJ flagship line, the 2012 Jaguar XJ LWB boasts of a 5,000cc Supercharged V8 engine allowing for 470bhp at 6,000-6,500 rpm (424 lb ft at 2,500-5,500 rpm) of maximum torque that lets the XJ reach a top speed of 155 mph and accelerate from 0-60 mph in only 4.9 s.

Adaptive aero, break and handle dynamics make the XJ an innovative luxury vehicle equipped with an aluminum chassis and wishbones front and rear—an improvement over a steel chassis with only frontal wishbones that defined the E-type of the earlier Jaguar era.

The E-type, however, was still ahead of its time and endures today as a grand opus and considered a prized collector’s item—in fact, the E-type is even immortalized at the Museum of Modern Art. If the XJ proves to be a worthy descendant of the Jaguar line of monumental cars, it will carry on the distinguished tradition of the British automobile brand made prominent in the popular psyche with the likes of the E-type Series 1.

June 19, 2011 at 12:10 pm | No comment

2011 Toyota 4Runner

SUVs are very popular for people who are inclined to adventure or going off-road and seeking thrills away from the city. You can’t have a trip off-road by just driving your car. What you need is a reliable SUV that will never disappoint when you go on an adventure off-road, and that is the 2011 Toyota 4Runner. It was first launched in 1984; but this series by Toyota has gone through a thorough evolution that makes the Toyota 4Runner even better year after year and already has gained its reputation as a powerful and durable vehicle that every driver can rely upon.

Its appearance may be somehow reminiscent of a traditional style vehicle but its performance is notable. Either new or used, this SUV is one of the highest-ranked vehicles in the market. This would surely be the best choice for those buyers who considered SUV for everyday use such as for going to work or school but still appears rugged and always ready to go off-road anywhere. The Toyota 4Runner 2011 model actually has three sub-models namely the famous Limited, SR5, and the Trail which is the most off-road oriented among the three. The Limited model of the 4Runner has the full-time four wheel drive while the other two, the SR5 and Trail are only part-time four wheel drive. Despite having sub-models, Toyota 4Runner 2011 has specific features and appearance that are eye-catchy hence, its success in capturing the people’s considerations.

Dimensions

The exterior is one beautiful thing about this vehicle. It has a dimension of 189.9 inches in length, 75.8 inches in width, 71.5 inches in height, 9.0 inches ground clearance, 108.9 inches in wheelbase, 63.2 inches in front and rear track, and 37.4 inches curb-to-curb turning circle. The lighting system is wonderful as well. The 4Runner has day-time running lights, some decent fog lights and halogen headlights. It also has an underbody protection for its fuel tank and its engine, making those parts durable. It has alloy luxury trims with excellent window features such as a defroster. Usually, SUV’s don’t really look very good, but the 2011 Toyota 4Runner is beautiful in the outside and has outstanding interior features.

Inside

The interior of the 2011 Toyota 4Runner is a big threat to its competitors because it has a many features to offer. Cargo is one of the main features that a SUV shall be exceptional at. The 4Runner has a very excellent cargo area. The cargo area has 12V power outlets which can be used multi-purposely, with a cargo capacity of 89.7 cu. Ft. with a rear seat down. That cargo size is very considerable. The 4runner also has a power steering wheel which is also a tilt/telescoping type. It has airbags in front and rear and some knee airbags for safety purposes and a sound system consisting of 8 speakers. It also has armrests for the rear and front sits for convenience; and talking about seats, the 4Runner actually has a third-row seat. There are a lot more features in the 4Runner, but the point is that the interior of this vehicle is not something to be trifled with by competitors.

Analyzing everything that has been said, most people say of the Toyota 4Runner is that it has an outstanding off-road driving capability because of its powerful V6 engine. It surpasses the cargo capability of a good SUV with the help of the fact that it has a third-row seat, so it passes the main purpose of having an SUV. If there would be cons, it would be the fact that it has no V8 options, the third row seat is cramped up and it has an intrusive stability control. But overall, the 2011 Toyota 4Runner is highly-recommended for your off-road trip.

The SuperCars Overall Rating = 65/100

What others say:

”The 4Runner is good for towing and off-roading, but not the best substitute for a family car”Consumer Reports

”If off-road capability is a top requirement, the brawny 2011 Toyota 4Runner is a good choice—with surprisingly good road manners to boot.”The Car Connection

“For the relatively few drivers who require an all-conquering, all-terrain SUV, the 2011 Toyota 4Runner is a top choice. Those city folk who need more passenger space and less off-road capability would be better served by a car-based crossover SUV.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Crossover SUV Base Price: $ 30,305.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 189.9 in. (482 cm) Width: 75.8 in. (193 cm)
Height: 71.5 in. (182 cm) Weight: 4400 lb (1995 kg)
Wheel Base: 109.8 in. (279 cm) Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (23 cm) (unladen)
Luggage Capacity: Max Cargo Vol. 89.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5
Performance
Engine: 4.0 Liter DOHC 24 Valve V6 w/ dual VVT-i- Displacement: N/A
Horsepower: 270 hp Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm
Max RPM: 5600 rpm Transmission: 5-speed ECT-i automatic Transmission
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds 1/4 Mile: 15.5 seconds
Available Trims
Option:4Runner Limited MSRP: $38,400; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:4Runner Trail MSRP: $36,555; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy

June 19, 2011 at 3:32 am | No comment

2011 Toyota Matrix

The 2011 Toyota Matrix saves fuel and is a useful vehicle for commuting. It beats its contemporaries in terms of performance as claimed by reviewers. Compared to its predecessor, the 2011 Toyota Matrix has undergone minor alterations. It has a new engine and new wheels. It has also the standard Smart Stop Technology which decreases the power of its engine when the driver steps on both the gas and brake pedals at the same time. The base model of the Matrix has a 1.8-liter engine while the S or sporty model has a 2.4-liter engine.

Comparisons

The 2011 Toyota Matrix is actually more expensive than the other compact wagons. You might consider buying other SUVs that are better in performance and looks. The S model performs better than the base model as reviewers claim. Considering that the S model is the sporty edition of the Toyota Matrix, it is not that sporty. It also consumes plenty of gas unlike the base model that saves gas. The base model also is ideal for the regular commuter but not for off-road drivers. You can upgrade the base model to an S model if you want.

One good thing about the Matrix as compared to other wagons and hatchbacks is that it has an optional all-wheel drive which its competitors do not have. As for its engine, it is ideal for commuting every day. In steering and turning it, you can control it properly and you can stop it immediately if you push on the brakes.

S Model

The exterior is attractive based on reviews. The 2011 Toyota Matrix S model include a wheel 17 inches in size, an S Badge, underbody spoilers at the front and at the rear end, and a color-keyed rear spoiler. It does not really have quality interior and it has limited cargo space as compared to its competitors. You get all this for an expensive price tag which is not really a good and equivalent equation.

Tall persons will not be able to sit comfortably in the front seat. The back seat can comfortably accommodate three children and two grownups. The driver however can drive comfortably because of its standard tilt and telescopic steering wheel. The Matrix also has a power outlet of 12 volts, remote keyless entry, power windows and doors, Bluetooth capability and an auxiliary audio jack. In terms of cargo space, the Matrix has a lot. When the back seats are used, it has 19.8 cubic feet, but when the back seats are folded, it has 49.9 cubic feet.

Safety First

Both the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety have yet to perform safety crash tests on the 2011 Toyota Matrix. In crash tests, the driver and the passengers’ safety were very good. Its roof has not yet been tested. It has airbags at the front and side curtain airbags at the back.

It has both the Vehicle Stability Control, a computerized technology that detects and lessens skids, and a Traction Control to prevent loss of traction and to ensure safety. It also has an Anti-Lock Brake System which allows the wheels to continue interacting with the road while braking. It has an Electronic Brake-force Distribution which applies pressure on the wheels to stop the power of the vehicle while continuing control. It has a brake assist to maximize braking pressure in emergency circumstances.

In terms of reliability, the 2011 Toyota Matrix has a 36-months or /36,000-mile warranty and a 60-months or 60,000-mile Powertrain warranty.

The Matrix is ideal for a small family for commuting to the office, school, and other domestic related chores. Although there are better options than this vehicle that are less expensive, it is fuel-efficient and excellent for middle-income families.

The SuperCars Overall Rating = 67/100

What others say:

“Practical and economical, the Toyota Matrix has easy cabin access, a roomy rear seat, and good cargo versatility.”Consumer Reports

“Though overshadowed by more distinctively styled competitors, the 2011 Toyota Matrix continues to provide plenty of practicality and comfort.”Edmunds

“The 2011 Toyota Matrix lineup shrinks with the loss of its sporty variant. This is essentially a tall-body wagon version of the Toyota Corolla compact sedan.”Consumer Guide

“Changes to the 2011 Toyota Matrix include new wheel designs, a revised interior, the addition of Toyota’s Smart Stop technology, and a significant increase in equipment on the base model. The XRS trim has been dropped.”KBB

“It doesn’t have much élan off the line, nor is it in any way posh, but the 2011 Matrix wagon does tote more cargo than its Corolla sedan cousins.”Car Gurus

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact Wagon Base Price: $ 18,845.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons Miles Per Gallon: 26 city / 32 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 171.9 in (437cm) Width: 69.5 in (177cm)
Height: 61.0 in (155cm) Curb Weight: 2865 lbs (1299kgs)
Wheel Base: 102.4 in (260 kgs) Ground Clearance: 5.8 in (15 cm) unladen
Luggage Capacity: Rear set down – 61.5 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5
Performance
Engine: 1.8-liter DOHC 16 valve VVT-i 4 cylinder Displacement: N/A
Horsepower: 132 hp Torque: 128 lb-ft @ 4400
Max RPM: 6000 Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: N/A Top Speed: N/A
Available Trims
Option:Matrix S MSRP: $19,800; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy
Option:Matrix S All Wheel Drive MSRP: $20,910; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy
Option:Matrix XRS MSRP: $22,110; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy

June 19, 2011 at 3:24 am | No comment

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