LATEST CARS

Friday, August 12, 2011

2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak : Latest Cars Reviews

The all-new Ford Ranger Wildtrak makes its global debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show, a sporty compact pick-up that delivers impressive power and safety, excellent fuel efficiency and significant capability. It exudes a powerful presence bolstered by the latest in-car comfort and technologies.

Aiming to deliver class-leading safety, new 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak Photos Ranger utilizes a whole suite of technologies, including Electronic Stability Program (ESP), to keep its wheels sturdily planted on the road under all conditions. Despite being an enormously capable vehicle, the Ranger is also fitted with technologies such as satellite navigation and BluetoothÂ® voice control, more commonly found on premium or luxury cars.

Building on Ranger's long-standing heritage of capability, the all-new model extends Ford's credibility further, with selected European versions achieving a best-in-class towing capacity of 3350 kg. New from the ground up - with everything changed except its name - new Ranger is the first commercial vehicle to be built under the One Ford strategy as part of a global product program, bringing together the full engineering expertise of Ford around the world.

Designed and developed in Australia, Ranger will be offered as a complete family of compact pick-ups with three different cab body styles, 4x2 and 4x4 drive trains, two ride heights and up to four series choices to suit every pocket and market. It will be produced in Thailand, South Africa and Argentina for more than 180 markets worldwide.

The aggressive and sporty stance of the new Ranger line-up is enhanced for the range-topper, Wildtrak. There is a unique color split on the front and designers masked out the feature line on the fascia and contrasted it by highlighting the lower intake. The same accent colors were used on the side mirrors, door handles and side air vents to give the vehicle a dark sporty look.

"Wildtrak's aggressive look and bold new graphics are a perfect fit for those who appreciate a sporty and more expressive image. It will look fantastic transporting the latest quad bike or jet ski for their weekend getaways," said Craig Metros, chief designer of the all-new Ranger.

Sitting high on 18-inch alloy wheels, the Wildtrak also comes with a roof rack and a sports hoop which enhance its profile. Exclusive Wildtrak badging and graphics help to set it apart from other lifestyle vehicles.

Car-like levels of comfort and features

The purposeful interior of the Wildtrak echoes the dark sporty look of the outside. A special hydrographic finish on the center console around the audio is reminiscent of strong but lightweight materials like carbon fiber.

The seat trim - a combination of leather and woven cloth inspired by sportswear with ventilated sections - provides lateral support and confidence even on rough terrain. Contrast stitching and a discreet strip on the seat upper and bolster, all in distinctive Wildtrak Orange, accentuate the premium feel of the interior.

The cabin of Ranger has been stretched to provide segment-leading spaciousness and comfort. Three passengers can easily fit in the second row of the Wildtrak, for instance. It offers ample knee room and better foot clearance between the B-pillar and the seat. This means that getting in and out of the new Ranger is easier than ever for rear-seat passengers.

With 23 storage spaces in the cabin, Ranger offers more practical stowage than any competitor. A deep center console bin will keep up to six cans of beverage cool, while the glove box is large enough to accommodate a 16-inch laptop computer. Ample storage for mobile phones and other small items can be found in the console.

Also poised to be a leader in innovation, 2012 Ford Ranger Wildtrak comes with Bluetooth audio streaming, USB and iPod connectivity. There is voice control over the radio, CD, iPod, USB, air-conditioning and phone. It also offers a five-inch color screen with satellite navigation.

More power, more torque

There is a choice of two state-of-the-art common-rail Ford Duratorq TDCi diesels and new fuel-efficient six-speed transmissions that serve up more power and torque.

The new, Dagenham-built, 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel delivers peak torque output of 375 Nm and power output of 150 PS, whilst a highly responsive and efficient new 3.2-litre 5-cylinder diesel produces a powerful 470 Nm of torque is power rated at 200PS. Both new powertrains have been developed and refined to deliver excellent fuel economy that is among the best in class. Fitted with an 80-litre fuel tank, Ranger is also expected to have one of the longest ranges in its segment.

New Ranger also features smart Ford technologies such as Adaptive Automatic Mode, which adapts gear shifts according to driving style and Grade Control Logic, which automatically downshifts when driving downhill and the brake pedal is depressed. This feature prevents the transmission from changing to a higher gear.

2012 Honda CR-V previewed with new concept : Latest Cars Reviews

With spy shots popping up on our radar at least twice in the past few months, we've been anticipating the arrival of a new Honda CR-V. And now the solitary image above has been circulating around these interwebs, reportedly giving us an advance look at the show car that will preview the new production model.

In typical Honda fashion, the purported concept vehicle pictured above appears to be a slightly jazzed-up version of the production CR-V expected to debut shortly. When it does enter production in Ohio and Ontario, it will likely lose the showy jumbo wheels, smoked headlamps, tinted windows and high-gloss lower body cladding, but otherwise, what you see is likely what you'll get.

Mechanically, the new crossover is expected to pick up largely where the outgoing model leaves off, but with a few important changes. Though the 2.4-liter engine – driving either the front wheels or optionally all four – could get a slight adjustment in output and efficiency, it is tipped to ditch its five-speed mate for a new six-speed automatic. The longer form also looks ready to adopt an extra pair of jump-seats in the back for seven-person capacity, but thus far, that's just a rumor.

We'll have to wait for further information from Honda to know for sure, but if the shot above turns out to be legit, we could be looking at a very stylish new CR-V indeed.

UPDATE: Honda has confirmed the image above is the real deal, and it's even confirmed that the CR-V will debut at the Orange County International Auto Show in Anaheim this September. Check out the official press release after the jump for more information.

2013 Chevrolet Malibu : Latest Cars Reviews

2013 Chevrolet Malibu : Latest Cars Reviews

It says something about the breakneck pace of America's mid-size sedan segment that the departing Chevrolet Malibu was beginning to feel long in the tooth. Introduced for the 2008 model year to great fanfare and critical praise, General Motors' family four-door has seen its appeal dinged by new entries from companies like Kia, Hyundai and Volkswagen, along with massively updated models from companies like Ford (not to mention perennial favorites from Honda and Toyota).

2013 Chevrolet Malibu ECODespite its evolutionary styling, this is more than a simple refresh of the current Epsilon-based car, the Malibu that debuted today at the 2011 New York Auto Show actually gains some revised proportions for its eighth generation thanks to its migration to GM's Epsilon II platform. Shorter overall, the new Malibu nevertheless boasts increased trunk space and a number of enhanced interior metrics thanks to increased width, though sitting inside, we found rear-seat headroom to be tighter than we remembered. Part of the reasoning why Chevy has chosen to go with a shorter overall length is to increase the car's global appeal – the Malibu will be sold in over 100 world markets (and in many of them, bigger is not always better).

Powered at launch by a 2.5-liter Ecotec four-cylinder paired with a six-speed automatic, the powertrain will produce 190 horsepower and 180 pound-feet of torque. A forced-induction four-cylinder is expected at a later date, but the Malibu is likely to follow Hyundai-Kia's lead in eschewing six-cylinder power altogether.

Thus far, Chevy isn't releasing fuel economy figures, but it claims the 2013 Malibu is the most aerodynamic car in its segment (helped, no doubt, by drag-reducing active shutters up front), along with being the quietest. Officials have told us that they believe the car will return fuel economy above 30 miles per gallon.

Chevrolet surprised attendees at its press conference today by also rolling out the Malibu ECO, an eAssist-equipped high efficiency model that's expected to earn fuel economy ratings of 26 mpg city and a lofty 38 mpg highway. Powered by a 2.4-liter Ecotec four-cylinder and aided by the aforementioned eAssist mild hybrid system and special aerodynamic tweaks, GM says the Malibu ECO can go up to 550 miles between fill ups, delivering fuel economy figures that would make some hybrid family sedans envious.

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 : Latest Car Reviews

Slated to bow this fall, the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is the most potent variant of the division’s iconic 4-door muscle car to date. In unveiling the new model at the Chicago Auto Show, Dodge president and CEO Ralph Gilles promised a car that “adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving.”

The heart of the SRT8 package is a new 6.4-liter Hemi V-8, which is a bump up in displacement from the previous model’s 6.1 liters. The engine is rated at 465 bhp and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, the latter figure representing an 80 lb.-ft. gain over the 6.1-liter powerplant.

Even though the new Hemi V-8 has greater output, attention was paid to delivering the best fuel economy possible by incorporating a fuel-saving 4-cylinder mode, which was not previously available on SRT products.

Also for the first time, the 5-speed automatic transmission adds a standard paddle-shift feature to complement the sequential mode of the console-mounted shifter. Other upgrades include a new adaptive damping suspension that monitors driver inputs, vehicle speed, steering angle, steering speed, brake torque, throttle position and lateral acceleration to tune the suspension to match road conditions and driving styles. Drivers can also select between an auto or sport mode on the adaptive suspension.

Steering feel is also improved with the new heavy-duty pump for the hydraulic assist, and revised gearing gives better on-center response.

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 is fitted with new five-element split-spoke alloy wheels shod with a range of all-season or more aggressive three-season tires.

SRT8 Boasts a Unique Appearance

As with the previous model, there’s no mistaking an SRT8 from its standard Charger siblings. The package includes specific front and rear fascias with a new rear spoiler. The grille (and grille surround) is finished in high-gloss black, and the SRT badge is prominently displayed in the signature cross-hair grille. The hood is unique and features a 6.4L badge a black-out air vent for added engine cooling. On the sides, body-colored rocker extensions give the car a lower, more muscular appearance. At the rear, new round 4-in. dual exhaust tips and an SRT8 decklid badge also differentiate the vehicle from stock models.

The interior has also been reworked to reflect the performance-oriented mission of the SRT8. The new leather-wrapped steering wheel has a racing inspired flat-bottom surface fitted with the SRT logo. Besides the new paddle shifters flanking the steering wheel, the cabin has aluminum accents with a high-tech carbon-weave look. The front seats have perforated suede inserts and more aggressive bolstering, plus standard heating and cooling. The SRT8 also features heated rear seats as part of the package.

Also new for 2012 is a 900-watt 19-speaker surround-sound system from Harman Kardon. The entertainment, climate controls and navigation can be set using a new 8.4-inch touch-screen mounted in the center of the dash.

The new product onslaught continues for the Dodge brand with the announcement at the 2011 Chicago Auto Show that the Dodge Charger SRT8 will return for the 2012 model year.

"We're continuing the fast-paced rebuilding of Dodge as our performance brand, and the expansion of our SRT product lineup in 2012 is an important part of our rejuvenation," said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand — Chrysler Group LLCs. "The new 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 builds on the iconic four-door fastback coupe design of the all-new Charger and adds a much larger power band across the rpm range, along with intelligent performance attributes and safety and creature comforts for customers who are passionate about performance driving."

The 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 will be built at the Brampton Assembly plant in Brampton, Ontario, Canada and will be in dealer showrooms in late 2011.

"AWE-INSPIRING" POWERTRAIN

Under the hood, the new 6.4-liter HEMI® V-8 delivers more horsepower and torque than the 6.1-liter HEMI V-8 it replaces. It also will offer improved fuel economy.

Estimated power ratings for the 2012 Dodge Charger SRT8 are 465 horsepower and 465 lb.-ft. of torque, including an estimated additional 80 lb.-ft. of torque at 2,900 rpm. Specific horsepower, torque and fuel economy numbers will be announced closer to the vehicle introduction.

Building upon the standard Fuel Saver technology (four-cylinder mode) found in the new 6.4 HEMI V-8, a new for 2012 adaptive valve exhaust system allows the technology to engage over a wider rpm range, which delivers improved fuel efficiency or the use of all eight cylinders when the power is needed.

2012 Nissan Altima Coupe : Latest Reviews

2012 Nissan Altima Coupe : Latest Cars Reviews

It’s arguably getting on years (count five since any significant update), but the Altima continues to sell quite well. And when such a formula proves successful, there’s very little reason to change it.

For 2012, updates on Nissan‘s sporty, front-drive mid-size sedan and coupe are relatively few. The biggest is the so-called Value Package, essentially a technology option that adds auto dimming headlights, rear view mirror, leather wrapped steering wheel with built in audio controls and Bluetooth functions, all for $490.

In terms of pricing, the Altima 2.5 stickers at $20,410, excluding destination charges, while the 2.5 S equipped with the CVT begins at $22,570, a hike of some $140 over last year. Meanwhile the full-tilt 3.5 SR CVT, will cost you $25,430, which is $320 more than the outgoing model.

On the coupe front things are quite interesting, buyers actually have to pay more for a stick-shift – $30,760 for the 3.5 R six-speed, versus $28,430 for the CVT equipped version.

The 2012 Boss 302S Mustang : Latest Reviews

The 2012 Boss 302S Mustang : Latest Cars Reviews

Alton, Va. — The fifth annual Pirelli Ultimate Track Car Challenge was held July 22 at the famed Virginia International Raceway and Ford Racing was there waving the Ford banner.

Ford Racing entered a 2012 Boss 302S, one of two turnkey race cars offered by Ford Racing and rooted in the very successful Boss 302 street car.

To get the most from the Boss 302S, former Grand-Am hot shoe Dean Martin handled driving duties with Ford Racing's own Andy Vrenko. With record ambient temperatures hotter than 105 degrees the cooling systems was taxed and the vehicle reliability was truly tested.

In the first morning session, Martin clicked off a lightning-fast lap of 2:02.2, which was the fastest lap for a factory-built car and the fastest time turned by a Ford vehicle. Despite the extreme July heat, the Boss 302S never missed a lap in all three sessions, proving durability testing performed earlier in the year paid off. The Ford Racing Boss 302S also won the Whoa Wonder award for the best braking system on a factory-built car.

Also in attendance was the Boss 302S of George Winkler. He drove his Boss 302S to an excellent lap of 2:03.5, which earned him the distinction of second fastest Ford in attendance. Rounding out the top three fastest Ford drivers was Chris DeSalvo in his 2011 Boss 302S spec Mustang GT with a time of 2:03.6. Both Winkler and DeSalvo are regulars in the World Challenge GTS class and proved their Mustangs were up to the task by then racing in National Auto Sport Association classes all weekend.

Ford Racing's Boss 302S is a turnkey race car, built in the Ford Auto Alliance International assembly plant in Flat Rock, Mich., which is designed for sprint races, including the World Challenge Grand Touring Series, NASA American Iron Racing and Super Touring 2 and also makes an excellent track-day car.

Fiesta Spec B racer unveiled

Making its track debut at VIR was the Ford Racing Spec B Fiesta, which extends Ford Racing's commitment to grassroots racers and support of the Spec B class. Spec B allows very few modifications, those allowed inclued a full roll cage, typical safety equipment (racing seats, fire system, racing belts) and the spec Ford Racing coil-over suspension kit. Despite these minimal modifications, the Fiesta showed everyone it was up to the task.

Vrenko took the Spec B racer out on its first official lap and immediately felt comfortable behind the wheel.

"The Spec B Fiesta had excellent grip and good entry into the corners, along with accurate and linear steering," Vrenko said. "The Fiesta driving position was very comfortable and the brakes were confident, which allowed me to out-brake a number of high-dollar exotics attending the event."

Overall it was a great shakedown run of the Fiesta Spec B, which should only get faster with time and additional tuning. The Spec B Fiesta was also a hit off the track with many people inspecting it all weekend. Ford Racing Engineering Supervisor Mark Wilson also noted he received numerous thumbs up as he drove through the paddock.

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302s : Latest Reviews

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302s

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302s : Latest Cars Reviews

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302s has a new model concept and there is a few different Ford Mustang. The limited production BOSS 302S will be the third competition car in Ford Motor Company’s history to be built at a Ford production facility and made available for racers to purchase through authorized Ford Racing dealers.

Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca cars are powered by the same smooth, high-winding 440-hp 5.0-liter V8 as the standard Boss, since the engine was already tuned specifically for road racing. Instead, engineers turned their attention toward delivering power to the ground most efficiently, and getting the car around a track in the quickest possible time.

The 2012 Ford Mustang Boss 302s has the suspension and steering department, higher-rate coil springs are added with stiffer suspension bushings and a larger-diameter rear stabilizer bar. The result changes lower the Mustang Boss 302 by 11 mm at the front and 1 mm at the rear. Adjustable shocks and struts are come in standard equipment on all Boss Mustang.