Hot Women Models Pics
Angelina Jolie
2001 AM General Hummer
2001 AM General Hummer
Cool New Truck Models
For those of us on this side of the Atlantic, the argument has always been the same: Is North America more competitive than Japan? Europe has never really been a consideration for one reason or another, and it should not be, right? Well, don't be so sure.Cool New Truck Models
When the Japanese decided to launch their offensive on export markets in the late '70s, it was North America that was hit first, and companies such as Toyota, Nissan and Honda won buyers with outstanding, high-quality products. As Bob Lutz said last year, the best thing that ever happened to Chrysler was Toyota. To expand on that, the best thing that ever happened to the Big 3 was Toyota, Nissan and Honda.. Their presence awoke the U.S. industry and has fostered huge improvement in cost, quality and productivity.
A later challenge
Japanese competition came much later in Europe. Unlike the United States, Europe is split among six major manufacturers: General Motors, Ford, Volkswagen, Fiat, Renault and PSA. Although competition was tough, a challenge like the one from the Japanese had never hit their shores. And many of the European Economic Union nations had stiff import limitations, again unlike the United States. What ultimately happened was a gradual realization of their competitive standing from benchmarking new Japanese competitors and, in the case of Ford Europe and General Motors Europe, some shared learnings from North America.
For most of the European manufacturers in the 1980s and for still some today, cost and productivity were poor, and although outgoing quality was good, the internal cost to acheive it was enormous. One might think it's not as critical if costs are higher since the European market commands from 20 to 40 percent higher pricing for a comparable vehicle in the United States. But are costs really higher? Remember, a 17 percent value-added tax is tagged on every vehicle as it leaves the factory door. Shipping and distribution costs are also higher. Labor costs are higher only because each person is limited to approximately 35 hours per week week in which he or she can work. In the United States, we consider that part-time; in Europe, it's a means of achieving full employment according to more socialistic beliefs.
Speedy improvements
In the last three or four years in Europe, armed with the knowledge of where the rest of the world was going and where Europe had to change, the industry is moving at breakneck speed. GM plants in Eisenach, Aspern and Antwerp have areas of their facilities that rival the Japanese. Chrysler/Steyr operations in Austria are small-volume benchmarks for cost, quality and productivity. Some Ford operations are among their best in the world. With the help of former Toyota masters, Porsche has done a complete turnaround of its Stuttgart factory.
Whereas it was always assumed that Europe was as far behind the Americas as the Americas were behind Japan, Europe has probably moved faster than either. The European manufacturers can be stubborn and very inward-looking about their own operations and systems. But given awareness and knowledge and, ultimately, new direction, they can move at blinding speed. Their education system provides some of the highest-quality, broadest-base knowledge in the world. Skilled tradesmen are very highly trained, and engineers are plentiful.
What has happened is some of the quickest and most comprehensive improvement in the auto industry. And Europe needs it. The market has been in the doldrums for years, and competition is fierce. With the knowledge of what manufacturing improvement can do for a company, plants are making huge strides.
Just when North American makers were thinking they could stay in the ring with Japan, look who's now jumped in the ropes. We think onlookers will be surprised.
2009 Audi A6
2009 Audi A6
Cool New Car Models
Audi is working quickly to update its lineup these days, with the 2009 Audi A6 the latest model to get a makeover. While it's not getting the same level of attention as the redesigned 2009 A4, a major engine addition and a number of minor tweaks should help the refreshed A6 maintain lead in global sales over the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class, which it holds despite selling just 12,000 vehicles in the U.S. in 2007, compared with almost 49,000 for the E-Class and more than 54,000 for the 5 Series.Cool New Car Models
New to the 2009 Audi A6's engine options is a supercharged, 3.0L direct-injection V-6 rated at 300 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque in U.S. spec. Called the 3.0 TSFI V6, the engine has a relatively high 10.5:1 compression ratio, a bore size of 3.33 in. and a stroke of 3.5 in. The supercharger is a Roots-style unit with twin four-vane rotors housed entirely between the cylinder banks. The vanes can spin at up to 23,000 rpm, pushing through 2204.6 lb of air per hour at a maximum boost pressure of 11.6 psi. This design allows the engine to hit its torque peak at just 2500 rpm and sustain that output until 4850 rpm. Peak power comes at slightly below 5000 rpm and revolutions top out at 6500 rpm. The entire package is fairly lightweight, tipping the scales at about 417 lb.
Although straight-line performance and fuel-economy numbers for the U.S.-spec 3.0L TSFI engine aren't yet available, the European version -- rated at 290 hp -- helps the A6 sprint 0-to-62 mph in 5.9 sec with an electronically limited 155 mph, all while getting a combined fuel economy of 24.8 mpg (European cycle).
The 3.0L TSFI will be the lone engine offered in the A6 Avant and it largely replaces the existing 255-hp 3.2L V-6, which will continue to serve duty in the front-drive version of the A6 sedan mated to a continuously variable transmission. All A6s fitted with the new V-6 will come with a new rear-biased 40/60 torque split version of Audi's signature quattro AWD system mated to a six-speed automatic with Tiptronic. The optional 350-hp 4.2L V-8 remains unchanged, as does the 435-hp 5.2L V-10 that powers the S6. The RS6 and its 580-hp twin-turbo 5.0L V-10 is still not expected to make it to North American shores, despite the arrival of a sedan variant.
Audi has also reportedly massaged the A6's suspension in an effort to further improve both comfort and handling, with new, large-diameter shocks up front being the major change, along with improved spring response. We won't get Audi's air suspension for our versions of the A6, however.
In addition to the new engine and underpinning updates, the 2009 A6 also undergoes some minor cosmetic changes and interior upgrades. There are new R8-inspired headlights equipped with LED daytime running lights, a new front fascia featuring different foglamps, and a revised grille. At the rear, Audi is adding two-piece LED taillights with nighttime optics to the sedan, which are similar to that of the current A6 Avant. There are also new wheels, additional interior aluminum trim on the steering wheel and other surfaces, and higher-resolution instrument cluster graphics. The A6's optional side assist blind-spot detection system turns on an alarm light on the side mirror if it detects a vehicle the way. In European spec, the system kicks in at 37.3 mph (60 km/h) and can detect cars as far as 164 ft (50 meters) away. Last, a new third-generation version of Audi's MMI Multi Media System is coming for next fall for the 2010 model.
The 2009 Audi A6 makes its global debut this month at the Moscow auto show and goes on sale in January 2009 in the U.S. Pricing will be announced at a later date, but expect it to remain roughly the same as that of the present car.
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK Class
2009 Mercedes-Benz CLK Class
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 CLK-Class is a 2-door, 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in 4 trims, ranging from the CLK350 Coupe to the CLK550 Cabriolet.Cool New Car Models
Upon introduction, the CLK350 Coupe is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 268-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. The CLK550 Cabriolet is equipped with a standard 5.5-liter, V8, 382-horsepower engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 21-mpg on the highway. A 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.
The 2009 CLK-Class is a carryover from 2008.
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL Class
2009 Mercedes-Benz CL Class
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class lineup gains all-wheel drive as a new feature. The CL550 and CL63 use V8 engines of 5.5 and 6.2 liters, respectively. CL600 and CL65 versions have V12 engines of 5.5 and 6.0 liters, respectively. All CLs have an automatic transmission: 7 speeds on the CL550 and CL63, 5 speeds on the CL600 and CL65. For 2009, the CL550 is newly standard with Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive; the rear-drive CL550 has been discontinued. All other CL-Class models are rear-drive only. CL-Class is essentially a 2-door coupe version of the 4-door S-Class sedan. Available safety equipment includes ABS, traction control, antiskid system, front and rear side airbags, and curtain side airbags. The 2009 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class has a standard navigation system and wireless cell phone link. All models now have steering-wheel gearshift paddles. Mercedes' Parking Guidance system--which assists drivers with parallel parking maneuvers--is now available. Also available for 2009 is the company's Blind Spot Assist, which alerts drivers to the presence of another vehicle in their blind spot.Cool New Car Models
Megan Fox
Hot Women Models Pics
Megan Fox
Megan Fox
Megan Fox has appeared in a five page spread for the November 2005 issue of the popular men's magazine FHM. Megan Fox also posed, in decreasing amounts of lingerie, for the March 2007 issue of FHM, the June 2007 issue of GQ, the July 2007 issue of Maxim, and the September 2007 issue of Arena. Megan Fox was voted the Sexiest Woman in the World by FHM magazine in 2008, beating out Jessica Biel and Jessica Alba. Megan Fox is represented by The Gersh Agency.
2009 Mercedes-Benz C Class
2009 Mercedes-Benz C Class
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is largely unchanged following its 2008 redesign. Four models are offered. The C300 Luxury and C300 Sport have a 228-hp 3.0-liter V6. The C350 Sport has a 268-hp 3.5-liter V6. The C63 AMG is tuned by Mercedes' performance division and has a 451-hp 6.2-liter V8. C300 Sport is available with manual or automatic transmission. All other C-Class cars use a 7-speed automatic. Rear-wheel drive is standard on all models. The C300 is available with Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Rear-drive C300s with the automatic transmission can run on ethanol-blended E85 fuel. Sport models have a sport suspension and unique interior and exterior styling. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid control, front side airbags, and curtain side airbags. Available features include a navigation system which includes a hard drive for storing digital music files, bi-xenon headlamps, and 60/40 split folding rear seat.Cool New Car Models
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK
Cool New Car Models
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK arrives during 2009 to give the German manufacturer a boldly styled rival for the BMW X3 and Land Rover LR3, as well as the 2008 Infiniti EX35 and 2009 Audi Q5.Cool New Car Models
The Mercedes-Benz GLK, its exterior heavily disguised with black tape but its interior in near-production form, was shown last August to a small group of automotive journalists, including Consumer Guide.
The GLK prototype was a five-passenger 4-door wagon. It was about as long as an X3, but noticeably wider and somewhat lower. Its shape was camouflaged, but appeared to favor square-cut lines and a boxy nose, more in the spirit of Mercedes' GL-Class full-size SUV or the LR3 rather than the more flowing contours of the Mercedes M-Class midsize SUV or such premium-compact SUV newcomers as the EX35.
"It doesn't look so much smaller than the M-Class, even though it is smaller, because of the boxy, edgy design language," said Volker Hellwig, GLK design project manager.
Mercedes said the prototype's dashboard was in near-final form. It consists of a sporty assembly of main gauges set before the driver. Jutting forms separate a series of blocky modules that house groupings of controls. The dashtop on the prototype was black and the instrument panel was of light-toned grained material set off by aluminum trim.
"It's not as soft as other cars we have," Hellwig said of the cabin styling. "It's more edgy, more boxy."
Mercedes officials on hand at the closed-door preview declined to discuss the GLK's technical details. Speculation has the GLK based on a C-Class station wagon chassis modified to furnish more ground clearance. The GLK won't be equipped for serious off-roading.
The probable engine is a 268-horsepower V6 for a GLK350. Mercedes is almost sure to also offer a diesel-powered model in the U.S., but probably not at launch. "Why wouldn't we offer diesel if we have a diesel and people want diesel?" said Hellwig.
The disguised version shown to journalists had 20-inch-diameter alloy wheels and running boards integrated into the lower body sides. Its license plate read "GLK Class."
Noting the lead time required to bring a vehicle to market, Hellwig said the styling of the production GLK was in near-final form under the black paper and tape. "We're pretty much where we want to be," he said.
Mercedes showed the covered-up GLK to groups of auto writers in Europe and at a recent U.S. preview of its 2008 ML550 and GL550 models. The U.S. journalists were prohibited from taking cameras or cell phones into the preview room.
Since we were shown the prototype, Mercedes released photos of the Vision GLK FREESIDE, a concept that was displayed at the 2008 Detroit auto show. Mercedes said this study vehicle was close to series production.
The Vision GLK FREESIDE is powered by a 2.2-liter four-cylinder diesel engine, that Mercedes says is good for about 170 horsepower. The engine features the BLUETEC emission control system, and it is claimed the engine would not have trouble meeting strict U.S. emissions standards. At this time though, it is unclear if this 4-cylinder diesel will be offered in the U.S.
Mercedes finally displayed the production GLK in April 2008 at the Bejing auto show. The U.S.-market version is the GLK350, and will be available with rear-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive. Both models are shod with standard 19-inch wheels and tires. The company also plans to offer optional 20-inch rolling stock.
Optional equipment should include a panoramic sunroof and a hard drive-equipped navigation system with a backup camera and the company's COMAND multimedia interface system. An upgraded full-leather interior will also be available.
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK
The 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK will compete in the premium compact SUV class.
A Notable Feature of the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK
Two things stood out about the GLK prototype's interior: The seats, done in cream-colored leather, had dark piping defining the seams. And on the center console was a single knob that functions as a multi-control interface in the manner of the system on the 2008 Mercedes-Benz C-Class premium compact car.
Buying Advice for the 2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK
If you're concerned about maximum fuel economy, you might want to wait to see if the company offers a diesel model.
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK Release Date: Geoff Day, Mercedes' director of communications, said the production GLK would debut during 2009 and go on sale as a 2010 model. He said the U.S. would be the GLK's biggest market. Recent reports suggest a fall 2008 launch in Europe, with U.S. sales beginning in January 2009.
First Test Drive: Mercedes-Benz will likely introduce the GLK350 to the North American press during the third quarter of 2008.
2010 Mercedes-Benz GLK Prices: Mercedes is far from setting prices, but we'd expect window stickers to start around $38,000 for the GLK350. The recent strength of the Euro could lead to significantly higher prices though.
2008 Lamborghini Murcielago
2008 Lamborghini Murcielago
Cool New Car Models
The 2008 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 is characterized by supercar performance and handling dynamics, as well as head-turning exterior design. While a bare-bones cabin with uncomfortable seats and token cargo room leaves some critics disappointed, the Lambo's flaws aren't enough to hinder its universal appeal. If you're in the market for an exotic sports car, also consider the Ferrari 612 Scaglietti.Cool New Car Models
Named for a legendary nineteenth-century Spanish bull that acquired fame after enduring 24 thrusts of a matador's sword, the 2008 Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 is a no-nonsense engineering marvel. While Automobile Magazine calls it "the best supercar on planet Earth," the Los Angeles Times says it "goes right past Ridiculous, ignores the exit for Silly, and blows by the 'Turn Here for Stupid' sign at 205 mph before finally taking the offramp -- in a screaming, smoking, three-digit, four-wheel drift of the I-see-Vishnu variety -- for Crazy." Putting the Lambo's power in perspective, Motor Trend says the Murciélago has more horsepower "than six Scion xBs combined ... more than any rational, responsible person needs in any one car, precisely why this Lamborghini is so thoroughly, exquisitely addictive."
Adding to its performance appeal is an exterior body style that commands notice. In fact, Car and Driver warns: "Only those happy to suck up the constant attention and public palaver that inevitably accrue to a Lamborghini driver should even consider one. You know who you are." Even so, the Murciélago isn't all perfect. "Yes, yes, it is still uncomfortable as hell and awkward to drive and costs more than your first house and your first divorce combined, but what it does do it does soooo magnifico that you don't even care about its flaws," remarks AutoWeek. While the Murciélago is expensive, Motor Trend says: "To discuss price or value quotient is irrelevant. If you have the cash and want the flash, this machine magica is worth it."
The 2008 Murciélago LP640 is equipped with a 6.5-liter V12 engine and has a maximum speed of 211 mph. It's also available as a roadster soft-top convertible.
Murcielago Performance - NA
Critics are blown away by the Murciélago's supercar performance and handling dynamics. "Hold your foot down, and eventually, Lamborghini claims, you'll find yourself on the north side of 211 mph -- outrunning the Ferrari 599 and even most light aircraft," writes Motor Trend. "Whether you come back down to earth is up to you."
Murcielago Exterior - NA
The LP640 receives widespread praise for its exterior design. "One look at this 50 Cent video on wheels, one taste of its seismic performance, and you'll know why the Murciélago LP640 is cross-referenced in the dictionary under 'centrifuge,' 'exhibitionism,' and 'lust,'" remarks Motor Trend.
Murcielago Interior - NA
The Murciélago's interior is marked by uncomfortable seats, simple technology, and very little cargo room. The LP640, however, isn't meant to attract luxury car buyers.
Murcielago Safety - NA
The 2008 Lamborghini Murciélago has not been rated by the federal government or insurance industry. It comes equipped with front air bags and traction control.
Murcielago Reliability - NA
U.S. News is still compiling data for the predicted reliability of the 2008 Murciélago. Lamborghini offers a three-year/unlimited mile basic warranty.
Shakira
Hot Women Models Pics
Shakira
Shakira
During her career, Shakira has performed at a large number of benefit concerts. In 2002 she sang at a Party in the Park concert fundraising for the Prince's Trust. That same year she performed at Divas Live which support VH1's Save the Music Foundation. On July 2, 2005 she performed her hits "Whenever, Wherever" and "La Tortura" on the Live 8 benefit concert at the
2009 Lamborghini Gallardo
2009 Lamborghini Gallardo
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Lamborghini Gallardo (guy-YARD-oh) gets a revised model lineup, but this all-wheel-drive exotic remains the Italian company's entry-level car. Gone are the base and Superleggera two-passenger coupes; in their place is a more powerful LP560-4 version. Also missing—at least initially—is the Spyder convertible with its power-folding soft top, but as it was formerly the most popular Gallardo model, it may return at midyear. Replacing the previous 5.0-liter V10 of 512- and 522-hp is the LP560-4's 5.2-liter V10 with an estimated 553-hp. The new car also receives revised front and rear styling. Transmission choices include a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed automated manual that has no clutch pedal and can be set to shift like an automatic. Most structural and body components are made of aluminum or lightweight carbon fiber. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags that cover the head and torso. Other available features include a navigation system with TV reception, rearview camera, wireless cell phone link, and carbon-ceramic brakes. Also available is a lifting system that raises the front of the vehicle to clear obstacles. We have not yet tested an LP560-4.Cool New Car Models
Vanessa Hudgens
Hot Women Models Pics
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Hudgens
Vanessa Anne Hudgens was born on the 14th December, 1988 in Salinas, California. She was homeschooled since the 7th grade! Her parents are called Greg Hudgens and Gina Guango! In 2002 she appeared in Still Standing and also Roberry Homicide Division. Then, in 2003 she was in Thirteen and The brothers Garcia. In 2004 she was in Thunderbirds. In 2005 she was in Quintuplets. In 2006 she was in the big hit, High School Musical, Drake & Josh and The Suite Life of Zack & Cody. High School Musical 2, and is soon to be in High School Musical 3. Vanessa also has a vey successful Album entitled, V and is working on her next one now!
2009 Jaguar XK
2009 Jaguar XK
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Jaguar XK comes available as a sports coupe and a convertible which are available in entry level and XKR versions. The entry level model is powered by a 4.2 Liter V8 engine that is rated at 300 horsepower. Equipped with rear-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission, the entry level coupe achieves a speed of 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds, whereas its convertible cousin achieved the same speed in 6.3 seconds.Cool New Car Models
The XKR model is powered by a supercharged 4.2 Liter V8 engine that is rated at 420 horsepower. The XKR coupe achieves a speed of 60 miles per hour in 4.2 seconds, whereas its convertible cousin achieved the same speed in 6.3 seconds. The 2009 XK entry level model is equipped with 18 inch tires, a suspension that is adaptive, Xenon headlights, sensors that help the driver park the vehicle, front seats that are heated and a drivers seat that has memory and a music system that has an ability to store 6 CD/MP3 formats and is located in the dashboard and has 6 speakers.
The 2009 XKR model is equipped with 19 inch tires, a retuned steering, and large front disc brakes. Optional equipment for the 2009 entry level model includes adaptive lighting, cruise control, seats made of high quality leather and an expensive music system manufactured by Alpine.
The 2009 Jaguar XK is equipped with air bags in the side for those seated in the front that protect both the head and chest, front seats that reduce whiplash, a system to control stability and traction and anti-lock brakes. The beauty of the interior of the Jaguar is undermined due to the use of cheap plastics and its display screen that is used to control music, navigation and temperatures is a bit difficult for people to understand.
2009 Jaguar XJ Series
2009 Jaguar XJ Series
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Jaguar XJ Series lineup gains a new model. This is Jaguar's flagship car, and it comes in six models: XJ8, XJ8 L, Vanden Plas, Super V8, new-for-2009 Super V8 Portfolio, and the high-performance XJR. XJ8 and XJR have a 119-inch wheelbase. The others have a 124-inch wheelbase. All have a 4.2-liter V8 engine. The XJ8, XJ8 L, and Vanden Plas have 300 hp. The supercharged XJR, Super V8, and Super V8 Portfolio have 400. A 6-speed automatic is the only transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. All have a load-leveling suspension. The XJR has a firmer suspension than other models and unique styling cues. Vanden Plas and Super V8 versions have more luxurious interior treatment. Options include four-zone automatic climate control and a navigation system. The Super V8 Portfolio adds DVD entertainment, satellite radio, and unique exterior and interior trim.Cool New Car Models
Maria Sharapova
Hot Women Models Pics
Maria Sharapova
Maria Sharapova lists fashion, movies, music and reading the Sherlock Holmes and Pippi Longstocking series as among her off-court interests, while she has also talked in the past about how she takes hip-hop dance classes.
2009 Jaguar XF
2009 Jaguar XF
Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Jaguar XF ranks 9 out of 12 Luxury Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 23 published reviews and test drives of the Jaguar XF, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.Cool New Car Models
The 2009 Jaguar XF is a luxury sport sedan that boasts attractive exterior styling and a feature list that matches the traditional favorites in this class. It deserves a close look from anyone looking for a luxury midsize sedan, perhaps something distinctive in a crowd of Lexuses and Mercedes. The lack of an all-wheel-drive option hurts the XF, however, and some reviewers complain of limited visibility.
The 2009 Jaguar XF is a formidable new entry into a highly competitive segment of the market. Replacing the less-than-successful S-Type, the XF initiates a new design direction for Jaguar -- and the press is torn on what to make of it. Motor Trend advises, "Make no styling judgments until you've seen the XF in person." But they like it, continuing, "Distinctive as it may look in photos, in the metal the XF radiates a modernity and sexiness that simply don't translate to the printed page." Inside, everyone seems to agree that it's luxurious and well-styled. Automobile Magazine raves, "The XF's interior really scores - there's plenty of room to seat four large adults in comfort. The cabin overflows with neat details...and the quality of materials" is "as good as anything in the class." With a pair of V8s and no smaller engine options, Jaguar is gunning to make a performance statement with its new car as well. Oddly, the XF lacks even an option all-wheel-drive system, something many buyers in this segment take for granted.
The XF is rated for 16 MPG in the city and 25 on the highway, placing it near the middle-of-the-pack among large luxury sedans. With gas prices rising to record levels, automakers are expected to improve the fuel economy of all of their cars over the next several years, so those numbers may look less attractive each year over the life of the car. It requires premium fuel.
The future of Jaguar is somewhat uncertain, and shoppers should make a note of it. In April, Ford sold the company to India's Tata Motors. The move should have little impact on the short-term quality of cars like this -- the XF was designed, built and on the way to dealers before the sale went through -- but no one can tell you what kind of support to expect from Jaguar over the next few years as ownership changes.
All new for 2008, the XF is available in three trims -- the Luxury model, the Premium Luxury and the Supercharged. The Luxury and Premium Luxury are powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that makes 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, while the Supercharged model's 4.2-liter V8 engine makes 420 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. All three models feature a six-speed automatic transmission. If the XF interests you, you might consider the 2008 BMW 5-Series and the Lexus GS 450 Hybrid.
* "Jaguar's got its nerve back. After too many years of hiding within the stylistic umbras and penumbras of what it had shaped a half-century ago -- think XJ and S-type -- Sir William's boys are once again daring to let their imaginations blaze. This 2009 XF, in showrooms about the time you read this, is an athletic five-seater that defies ancient traditions." -- Car and Driver
* "The historic British car company is combining sleek exterior design, innovative driver interfaces and strong performance with a luxurious interior. Yes, it's a whole new type of cat. And we like it." -- Popular Mechanics
* "The XF has the performance and panache to stand out in the premium midsize segment...and a car with a heart is going to be tough to beat." -- Motor Trend
* "Too many manufacturers think their higher-performance sedans have to imitate track cars, down to rock hard seats, tooth-chipping suspensions, a Cray wedged into the dashboard, carbon fiber and a bad-ass nasty demeanor. The XF Supercharged is another kind of car entirely. It's a first-tier luxury sedan that just happens to have afterburners in the trunk." -- The Truth About Cars
* "All in all a great car which deserves to succeed." -- The Auto Channel
* "For people who shop for distinction and driving pleasure in this price class, the XF is worth serious consideration." -- Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel
* "The XF is a very fine motorcar in a market segment that demands utter perfection." -- Los Angeles Times
XF Performance - 8.6 (Very Good)
The 2008 Jaguar XF comes with a choice of two V8 engines, signalling Jaguar's intent to make this a high-performance machine. Reviewers, however, tend to advise buyers looking for performance to step up to the supercharged model. "The thing the XF Supercharged does best is to turn small holes in traffic into big holes with its thick band of thrust," says the Los Angeles Times. But where the XF really shines is in handling. "The XF's variable-ratio power steering is magnificent, rich with feedback, arcing through its orbit smoothly, and transmitting a linear build-up of forces in corners," raves Motor Trend.
XF Exterior - 7.5 (Good)
The 2008 XF enters a class full of beautiful cars, but automotive writers are split on how well it competes. The Los Angeles Times thinks the XF is just "a reasonably attractive sedan from a company that needs a ravishing, wallet-emptying beauty." The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, on the other hand, says "it would be hard to find anyone who thinks the new XF is ugly. It has stunning, taut lines that look more like a coupe than a sedan." Several reviewers say it looks too similar to the Lexus GS. In other words, the XF has been received much like Jaguars always have -- some people love the look, others don't understand the appeal. A photo gallery and exterior review are coming soon.
XF Interior - 8.2 (Very Good)
The passenger cabin of the 2008 Jaguar XF combines the traditional comfort of a high-end luxury sedan with a futuristic, high-tech ambiance. Motor Trend says "Prepare to make the jump to hyperspace: You're at the glowing helm of your own Millennium Falcon." Popular Mechanics explains, "Close the door, and the red Start/Stop button pulses with the lub-dub rhythm of a heartbeat. Touch the brake, push 'Start,' and a cast zinc and spun stainless steel shift dial rises from the console into the palm of your hand" instead of a shift lever. The glovebox opens when you tap a target on its surface. Despite the focus on high-tech toys, most reviewers find the cabin plush and comfortable. A photo gallery and interior review are coming soon.
XF Safety - NA
Neither the insurance industry nor the federal government has crash tested the 2009 Jaguar XF yet. Side head curtain air bags and anti-whiplash head restraints are standard, as is stability control and anti-lock disc brakes. The Supercharged model includes a blind spot monitor, and some reviews say you'll need it. Several testers found rear visibility limited. A full safety review is coming soon.
XF Reliability - 4.0 (Mediocre)
The 2009 Jaguar XF reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Jaguar covers its cars with a four-year/50,000 mile limited warranty, including free scheduled maintenance for the first year or 12,500 miles.
2008 Isuzu i-290
2008 Isuzu i-290
Cool New Car Models
The 2008 Isuzu i-290 and i-370 pickups have simplified option packages. These trucks are retrimmed versions of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon. The i-290 has a 185-hp 2.9-liter 4-cylinder engine. The i-370 has a 242-hp 3.7-liter 5-cylinder engine. The i-290 comes only as an extended cab with rear-wheel drive. The i-370 comes as a rear-drive extended cab or as a Crew Cab with rear drive or available 4WD. The 4WD system includes a low-range gear for off-roading, but it should not be left engaged on dry pavement. The i-290 uses a manual transmission or an optional automatic; i-370 is automatic only. Maximum towing capacity is 5800 lb. Extended cabs have a 6-ft cargo box and Crew Cabs have a 5-ft box. Available safety features include ABS, curtain side airbags, and traction control. Heated power front seats and leather upholstery are optional only on the i-370 Crew Cab. Note that Isuzu will discontinue sales of light-duty vehicles in North America during calendar 2009.Cool New Car Models
2008 Isuzu Ascender
2008 Isuzu Ascender Cool New Car Models
The 2008 Isuzu Ascender ranks 26 out of 26 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Isuzu Ascender, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.The Ascender delivers an outstanding warranty and a smooth ride, but it can't match the fuel economy or interior quality of rivals and ranks near the bottom of its class.
Similar to its GM cousins, the Chevy TrailBlazer and GMC Envoy, the 2008 Isuzu Ascender is generally viewed by auto reviewers as offering a smooth ride and a versatile five-seat interior. Introduced in 2003 to replace the Isuzu Trooper, the Ascender gets minimal changes for 2008, although side-impact air bags are now standard. About.com explains: "The Ascender combines jumbo-SUV room with mid-size SUV maneuverability. Though similar to GM-branded SUVs, it gets a longer warranty (3 yrs/50,000 miles) and lower starting price." Noting its low fuel economy, the reviewer adds, "I have often said that I have no room in my soul for huge SUVs that can barely squeeze 15 miles from a gallon of gas...But I will admit that for the right vehicle, I might just be able to clear out a little corner... and the Isuzu Ascender has its own reserved parking space."
The majority of reviewers say the Ascender is a good deal because of its seven-year/75,000-mile powertrain warranty, but some still see the Ascender as too costly for what you get. Another drawback is that Isuzu is closing its doors in the United States. While some dealerships will remain, servicing the Ascender could be difficult. Consequently, the Ascender ranks near the bottom of its class -- even when compared only to other off-road SUVs.
The 2008 Ascender comes in one trim with a choice of either rear- or four-wheel drive.
* "If you're into big trucks and don't mind the slightly gawky exterior, then the Ascender doesn't look a bad deal. Until, that is, you open the door and realize that you're plunking down a minimum of $28,000 for a vehicle that has the interior quality of my daughter's Barbie car." -- Automobile Magazine
* "The Isuzu Ascender 5-Passenger SUV is among the best of the mid-size sport-utilities. Its standard inline six-cylinder engine is smooth and powerful. It rides and handles well. And its interior is convenient and versatile." -- New Car Test Drive
* "This Isuzu is strictly a price vehicle in my book. If you can get a good deal on it, don't depend on using a SUV as a babe magnet, have a habit of owning them for a long time so depreciation is not a problem, and don't drive enough miles to be bothered by the poor gas mileage, you might just want to give this model a drive." -- The Family Car
* -"Speaking of price, I'm sorry, but $32,000 seems awfully steep for a sport-ute without four-wheel drive. For the money, I can get a nicely equipped Explorer or a Jeep Grand Cherokee -- with the all-wheel drive. That seems like a no-brainer, big warranty or not." -- Detroit News
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)
Posts
