2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet

The 2014 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet is a revised version of the Cabriolet member of the Mercedes-Benz E-class family. Some of its new additions include the availability of the efficient Blue-DIRECT 4-cylinder engines and trend-setting “intelligent drive” system assistance.

To the eye, the 2014 Cabriolet draws on the legendary Mercedes-Benz design idiom. To a seasoned road user, the four-seater is amongst the most desirable car models at the mid and high end market segments.
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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Cabriolet Base Price: $59,070.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gals (66 L) MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 185 in. (469.9 cm) Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276.1 cm)
Height: 55 in. (139.7 cm) Width: 79.3 in. (201.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3883 lbs (1761 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 11.5 cu ft w/top Maximum Seating: 2 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5 Liter V6 DOHC Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1
Horsepower: 302 HP Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds Maximum Speed: NA

Engine & Performance

There are a wide variety of diesel and petrol engines available for the Cabriolet. All are designed with an ECO function for maximum fuel utilization efficiency. Most of its popular petrol engine’s output ranges from 184 hp to 408 hp. Diesel engines range from 170 hp to 252 hp.

The engines combine exemplary power delivery and spontaneous response with top-notch emission performance to achieve optimum engine on-road performance.
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In conjunction with the powerful engines, all standard E-Class Cabriolets are fitted with AGILITY control stability and carefully selected shock absorbers that adapt to changing road conditions.

Aside from that, the car comes with a three-link suspension that helps ensure a spotty and comfortable ride. Its brakes come with internally ventilated discs for maximum and near-perfect response.

Exterior & Interior

The E-Class Cabriolet front features an upright grille that vividly spells its dominant status: sportiness and assurance. It has a restyled bumper that serves an inspiring interplay between surfaces with soft shapes and a crisp contour. It has a sophisticated look that clearly highlights its agility and dynamism.

A long bonnet, flat roof, elongated side window design and a trendy rear spell a sleek profile. Its side windows are retractable and its beltline is elongated to merge with the rear.

By combining cutting edge technology with luxurious features, the 2014 E-Class Cabriolet offers superb comfort for superlative driving enjoyment. This is typically why it is widely regarded as the epitome of the E-Class family.
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July 4, 2013 at 3:28 am | No comment

2013 Honda Civic Hybrid

In the past few years, the hybrid industry has received more and more manufacturers to contribute with their own models.

The 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid is the latest addition to the eco-friendly selection suite that comes with several visual and performance improvements. Honda has made significant changes to the 2013 lineup of the Civic family. Their hybrid version received the most attention because of fuel efficiency, capable of delivering up to 40% more miles per gallon.
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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan Base Price: $24,360
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gals (50 L) MPG: 44 city / 44 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 179.4 in. (455.6 cm) Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (266.9 cm)
Height: 56.3 in. (143 cm) Width: 69 in. (175.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 2868 lbs (1300 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 10.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: Inline 4 SOHC i-VTEC Displacement: 1497 cc
Horsepower: 110 HP Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 127 lb-ft @ 1000-3500 rpm Transmission: CVT*
Voltage Range: 108V-172V Battery: 144V (Li-Ion)
Horsepower: 23 HP @ 1546-3000 Torque: 78 lb-ft @ 500-1546

Engine

The Civic Hybrid has a 1.5 liter, 110 HP gas engine and an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency.

Its estimated EPA rating averages 44 mpg in city, highway and combined. For improved fuel efficiency the manufacturers developed a new Continuously Variable Transmission.
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Performance

The Civics’ performance on the road is comparable to the other gas models from the series. Its ride and feel are similar to the rest of the Civic line, Honda chose to avoid to rework the car completely.

Exterior

The exterior of the new Civic has been redesigned starting with a new front bumper with chrome accents and honeycomb grill accompanied by extended corner lights.

Additional chrome elements have been added to the rear as well as reflector treatments integrated in the rear bumper. The car itself looks taller than previous models due to changes to the body.

Interior

The inside has been improved for the 2013 model featuring a well finished and soft-touch materials which are now standard for the series. Honda also gave its customers the ability to choose between leather and cloth interior as well as the option for completely black theme.

Additionally, the car comes equipped with a color central display and extended connectivity and features a navigation system.

The addition of high quality materials to the interior and its redesign of the exterior make it significantly superior when compared to previous models. All these additions and improvements make the 2013 Honda Civic Hybrid an option worth looking at for the ones that are interested to get a fuel efficient car.
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July 3, 2013 at 5:53 pm | No comment

2013 Buick Riviera Concept

Originally introduced in 1963, the Buick Riviera quickly became one of the carmakers top sellers. The last concept edition of the Riviera was showcased at the 2007 Shanghai auto show.

However, with the 2013 model it appears Buick may be getting serious about a production version. The 2013 Buick Riviera Concept has a futuristic flow to its exterior. This is no coincidence given its design was inspired by moving water.

Perhaps the most amazing “concept” of this futuristic vehicle is its wireless plug-in electric hybrid propulsion system. This allows for remote recharging of the cars battery via a sensory panel.
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Motor & Performance

The Buick Riviera Concept car is a wireless plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (W-PHEV). Other performance elements include an air spring handling system that insures optimum performance under all driving conditions and an electromagnetically controlled suspension.

It also has a “smart” 4 wheel drive steering system. You are feted to internet access, the infotainment scheme includes safety settings and driver assistance.
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Exterior

One can only hope that many of the styling features seen on the Riviera Concept car will survive the production line. Some of its components are clearly too advanced for the entire unit to make it through unscathed.

There is no doubt the renowned waterfall front grille will be present proudly displaying the Buick emblem on its center. Hopefully the gull wing doors will survive, as well as the wing shaped running lights for daytime use.

Other exterior components include active pneumatic wheels, working diffusers and grille shutters and a metallic-fiber spoiler. Overall, the Riviera is constructed with a streamlined 14 degree angle fastback profile.
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Interior

Just the like the exterior design, the 2013 Riviera Concept provides an all around flow to it. The front seat is described as “floating” that complements the adaptive seating system. The concept’s center console is compact and easy on the eyes.

The head restraints absorb noise. All the materials used inside this vehicle are top quality, including the lava suede seats. Of course there is a high speed internet system that is neatly displayed at an angle resting atop a shelf-like extension on the dash.
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July 3, 2013 at 1:54 pm | 1 comment

2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI

The 2014 Volkswagen Golf GTI boasts among other things a turbo-charged TSI petrol engine, a Stop-Start system, a beautiful exterior design and an awe inspiring interior.

When viewed from a distance it provides an attractive profile.

Its dynamic proportions signify a complete revolution to traverse matrix design concepts.
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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hatchback Base Price: $36,855.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gals (55 L) MPG: 37 Combined
Dimensions
Length: 168 in. (426.8 cm) Wheel Base: 103.5 in. (263.1 cm)
Height: 56.8 in. (144.2 cm) Width: 70.8 in. (179.9 cm)
Performance
Engine: 4 Cylinder TSI Turbocharged Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 217 HP Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 259 lb-ft @ 1500-4400 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds Maximum Speed: 153 mph (246 km/h)

Engine & Performance

The 2014 Golf GTI’s engine is based on the EA-888 engine concept which remarkably reduces fuel consumption and emits superb power at increasing torque levels. The turbo-charged petrol engine features both multi-point injection and direct injection.

One of GTI’s powerful innovations is a brand new concept cylinder head which features a water-cooled exhaust gas circulation loop and an integrated turbocharger. The Golf GTI’s internally ventilated front wheel discs and improved suspensions make it not just stable a vehicle but a performer.
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Exteriors

The new GTI has an extended 2631 mm wheelbase and a short overhanging in the front that visually shifts the entire vehicle cabin backwards. Compared to the previous models its bonnet looks slightly longer and its height slightly shorter.

The front features a re-defined radiator grill and optional led fog lights. The area beneath the bumper is painted with the same body color.

When viewed from the side, the standard LED rear lights and the optional LED daytime lights stand out. For the first time, Volkswagen Golf GTI has red front wing plates, GTI front and rear badges.

Interior

Its interior has standard features that include a customized leather steering wheel, a golf-ball reminiscent gear shift grip, red ambience lighting, brushed stainless steel pedals and legendary tartan patterned seat covers.

Everything from its layout, stability, appeal to the eye, wheels, pedals and engine power has been tuned for max driving fun. Drivers will notice significant agility levels in this model as compared to previous models.
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July 3, 2013 at 3:28 am | No comment

2013 Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid

The launch of the new 2013 Toyota Prius Pug-in Hybrid comes at a time when technology and comfort greatly matters in a car.

This new vehicle does not disappoint those who love their technology. Toyota’s innovations clearly provides more for you the driver and the environment.
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Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Hybrid Hatch Base Price: $32,000
EV Mode Range: 11 miles MPGe for EV Mode: 95 avg.
Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.6 gals (40 L) MPG for Hybrid Mode: 50 avg.
Dimensions
Length: 176.4 in. (448.1 cm) Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149.1 cm) Width: 68.7 in. (174.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3165 lbs (1436 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 21.6 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 1.8 4 cylinder DOHC VVT-i Compression Ratio: 13.0: 1
Horsepower: 98 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm Transmission: ECVT*
Electric Motor: AC Synchronous PM Torque: 153 lb-ft
Charge time: 120V-3 hours/ 240V-1.5 hours Max EV Mode: 11 miles
Horsepower: 134 HP Battery: Li-Ion

* Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission
** Nickel -Metal Hydride

Performance

This front-wheel drive that is powered by a 1.8 liter gasoline inline-4 engine paired with an electric motor backed by a battery pack. This battery can be charged from any outlet for up to 11 miles of pure electric operation.

The engine is mated mechanically and electronically to 60-kilowatt electric motor; all these work with a continuously variable transmission and the nickel-metal hydride battery pack. The total hybrid system horsepower is 134. Prius’ EPA city/highway fuel economy rates at 51/48. It has a 105 lb-ft toque at 4,000 rpm.
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Exterior

The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid comes in 2 rim levels, base and advanced. Its base models come with 15-in alloy wheels.

The car’s wheel covers are aerodynamic designed; the roof’s apex is pushed rearward to create a slightly sporty appearance while still maximizing rear-seat headroom.

Interior

There are a lot of features that provide for ease and comfort, these include: an illuminated charging port, key-less entry with push-button start, a tilt-telescopic multifunction steering wheel, cruise control, automatic climate control, iPod/USB, SiriusXM satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, rear-view camera and the height of the driver’s seat is adjustable.

The advanced model features including LED headlights, adaptive cruise control, fog lights, ‘SofTex’ upholstery, power front seat with adjustable driver lumber support, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, upgraded JBL audio system and so much more.

Its contoured dashboard looks handsome with its 2-tone panels. The Prius’ steering wheel incorporates a wheel-like control that basically operates the touch tracer display that monitors fuel-usage and hybrid-operation displays on the car’s LCD information screen.

This car accommodates 5 people and has a luggage capacity of 15.6 cu ft. The front seats have the benefit of a 2-step heater system with improved control that suppresses temperature fluctuations and also enhances comfort.

In the Eco mode, the heaters are synchronized with an air conditioning system. The system activates to warm the occupants more quickly; this reduces the load on the air conditioning system which further increases the fuel efficiency.
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Safety

This Prius comes with standard stability control, active head restraints, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes and 7 airbags including a driver knee air bag.

July 2, 2013 at 5:48 pm | No comment

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