5 posts from May 2007

From the territory of landmark autos like the BMW 3-series and the Porsche 911, a vehicle from General Motors is aiming to get identical notoriety. The Saturn Astra will cross the Atlantic Ocean to replace the Ion as the automaker’s entry-level compact.

 

The new Astra, available in both two-door hatchback and four-door wagon models, flaunts a sleek appearance that's a noteworthy exodus from the Ion. The Saturn wheel hub made the wheels more prominently positioned outside the fenders. They are contained only through the use of supplemental cladding.

 

There's a subtle crease that extends the length of the hood, and distinctive chrome accent bars on the grille and just above the rear bumper add a certain upscale touch. Any cost-cutting measures that are often evident on many starting-point cars aren't evident on the Astra. The car's interior appears as refined as the exterior - featuring a catchy steering wheel, large round gauges and smartly placed knobs and switches on the central control panel.

 

The two-door version, is the sportiest of the dynamic duo, does a great job of masking its practical hatchback side while the shape of the four-door wagon is reminiscent of the Dodge body parts used in the Caliber.

 

Unlike its ancestors, the Astra has no polymer (plastic) ding- and-rust-resistant body panels. It uses sheet metal for the doors and fenders that deliver less road noise into the cabin. It also offers a snug fit with smaller gaps.

 

The Astra wagon will share the same two-model designation as the Aura sedan - base XE, and uplevel XR - while the hatchback will be offered in the XR trim only. Base wagons will come with power windows, tilt/telescoping steering wheel, outside mirrors and locks, six-speaker audio system, four-wheel disc brakes and six air bags, including side-impact protection. Hatchbacks will add stability and traction control, 17-inch alloy wheels, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, more responsive steering and sportier bucket seats with larger side bolsters and increased lumbar support.

 

Optional features include heated front seats in cloth or leather, seven-speaker MP3-capable audio system with multi-disc CD changer, navigation system and an oversized two-panel power sunroof for the wagon. The Astra base pricing has yet to be announced. But it will likely go beyond the $12,500 Ion by about $2,000.

 

Just one look at the Astra's impressive attributes, especially the European influence, made me wanna make a purchase. Now that's smart.

Yummy… that’s the exact word I said when I read about the new engine that Volkswagen would be giving to its new car models.

 

Volkswagen has been one among the best suppliers of good and quality cars of today. Although, a foreign brand, Volkswagen has been super famous in the US car industry because of its unique style and powerful performance parts.

 

But just as how powerful it was before, Volkswagen decided to add more power to its powertrain parts. Now, the 1.6-litre FSI engine has a new powerful replacement - a Volkswagen exclusive supercharged 1.4 liter TSI engine which is just the engine type everybody is longing for. The new engine part is even more powerful than its previous turbocharged state. The new TSI 1.4 liter engine is now a supercharged engine part. The new power on the hood now has an output of 122 PS. This one is also linked to either DSG gearboxes or the super classic manual.

 

The 1.6-litre FSI engine found on the models like the Golf, Golf Estate, Golf Plus, Passat and the Jetta models will all be replaced by the new TSI 1.4 liter supercharged engine. The replacements will be taking place later this year. You have to wait guys. But I guess it’s worth it.

 

Meanwhile, if your old Volkswagen car is in need of a new Bosch or Dee Zee, online stores are offering these car parts for a very reasonable price. Visit your reputable online car parts store and purchase these quality parts. 

It’s about time we talked about Hyundai cars! Perhaps, they don’t need some attention because they’re getting a lot lately. Hyundai cars today are making their statement and what they are trying to convey really catches the car buyers’ and the automobile aficionados eyes’ and attention. I mean, they are looking pretty cool and it turns out that Hyundai models can rank themselves right beside the top automakers in the world.

 

One of the Hyundai cars that is making a big impact is the 2007 Veracruz. This mid-sized crossover made its debut at the North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) last January 2007. Anyway, I’m going to leave you with the complete features and specifications of the 2007 Hyundai Veracruz. I’m going to work first on my Chevrolet pickup flywheel and distributor cap, so I deem that this is sure going to be a busy day ahead!    

 

“Veracruz is an exceptional vehicle at the right time for this developing segment,” said Steve Wilhite, the chief operating officer of Hyundai Motor America. “The vehicle’s designers recognized that the needs and desires of traditional SUV buyers weren’t being met and focused on meeting those needs in an elegant and ingenious way. The result is a spacious crossover that delivers both refined style and first-rate performance.”

“The 2007 Veracruz embraces both active and passive safety with a host of leading-edge technologies,” expresses John Krafcik, the vice president for Strategic Planning and Product Development of Hyundai Motor America. “Electronic Stability Control, six airbags including side curtain airbags protecting all three rows, and active front head restraints are found standard in Veracruz and are some of the industry’s most effective technologies.”

The Veracruz special features:

• Body Construction: Steel unibody
• Engine: 3.8-liter Lambda DOHC V6 engine with dual exhaust
• Steering: Rack-and-pinion, power assisted, engine-RPM-sensing

 

Suspension:

• Front wheel drive
• Front: Independent MacPherson strut w/ coil springs, 27 mm stabilizer bar, gas-charged twin-tube shock absorbers
• JTEKT electromagnetic clutch AWD system
• OD lock-up torque converter
• Rear: Independent multi-link w/ coil springs, 17 mm stabilizer bar, gas-charged shock absorbers
• SHIFTRONIC™  manual shift mode
• Transmission/drive system: 6-speed electronic automatic

 

Exterior features:

• Auto-dimming exterior mirrors
• Automatic on/off headlights
• Backup warning system
• Black rear spoiler with center high mount stop light, LED-type
• Bodycolor side mirror, power remote, heated w/timers, manual folding, with approach lights and LED side repeater lights
• Bodyside moldings: dark gray
• Bumpers: bodycolor with dark gray accents
• Door handles: bodycolor, chrome
• Fog lights, projector type
• Privacy glass, rear
• Solar filtering tinted glass
• Three-beam projector style halogen headlights
• Tinted windshield w/ dark tint sunband

 

Tires and wheels

• P245/65R-17 tires
• P245/60R-18 tires
• 17 x 7 in. aluminum alloy wheels
• 18 x 7 in. aluminum alloy wheels
• Compact spare

 

Safety and security features:

• 2.5 MPH bumpers
• 2nd row 3-point seat belts (3)
• 2nd row LATCH lower anchors and upper tether anchors
• 3rd row 3-point seat belts (2)
• 4-channel/4-sensor ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• Active front head restraints, adjustable
• Bodyside reinforcements
• Child-proof rear door locks
• Driver and front-passenger advanced airbags
• Driver and front-passenger seat mounted side-impact airbags
• Electronic Stability Control (ESC) w/ Traction Control System (TCS)
• Energy-absorbing steering column
• Front 3-point seat belts w/ adjustable shoulder belt height
• Front seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters
• Hood buckling creses and safety stops
• Occupant Classification System (OCS)
• Power assisted front vented disc/rear solid disc brakes
• Power window lock-out button
• Remote keyless entry system w/ alarm
• Roof-mounted side curtain airbags for all three rows of seats
• Shift interlock system
• Tamper-proof door lock key cylinder

 

Interior features

• 115V power outlet, cargo area
• 12V outlets: cigarette lighter, center console front storage box,  rear of center console and cargo area
• Air conditioning w/ dual front automatic climate controls
• Air conditioning with separate rear HVAC controls
• Ash trays, front illuminated & single rear
• Assist grips
• Carpeting, full cut-pile including cargo area
• Clock, digital mounted in center stack
• Conversation mirror
• Cool box center console
• Cupholders, front center console (2), 2nd row center console (2), 3rd row seat (1)
• Deluxe front center console w/ dual-level covered storage
• Door trim, simulated leather
• Electric rear window defroster w/ timer
• Floor mats, carpeted
• Glovebox, illuminated and lockable
• Overhead console w/ map lamps and sunglass holder
• Rear coat hangers
• Rearview mirror, electrochromic auto-dimming w/ compass and HomeLink®
• Rearview mirror, manual day/night
• Steering wheel, leather-wrapped 4-spoke
• Trip computer
• Steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls

 

The audio system

• AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system w/ 6 speakers
• Infinity® AM/FM/XM/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with 8 Infinity® speakers (315 watts)
• Infinity® Logic7® surrounded sound AM/FM/XM/6-CD Changer/MP3 audio system with 10 premium Infinity® speakers (605 watts)
• Rear seat entertainment system with 8-in. LCD screen, DVD player, wireless headsets and remote control
• Power and remote control features
• Cruise control
• Power door locks
• Power dual remote-control heated mirrors
• Power liftgate
• Power tilt & slide sunroof
• Power windows w/ driver’s auto-down

 

Seats

• 2nd row 60/40 split seats, with fold-flat driver side and flip-fold flat-fold passenger side
• 3rd row 50/50 split fold-into-floor seats
• 4-way power passenger seat
• 7-passenger seating
• 8-way power driver’s seat
• Active front head restraints (adjustable)
• Driver’s seat manual adjustable lumbar support
• Driver’s seat power adjustable lumbar support
• Heated front seats
• Leather seating surfaces
• Multi-adjustable front bucket seats
• Premium Black and Saddle leather seating surfaces

 

Meters and gauges

• Compass
• Indicators: A/T position, cruise control, ESC, TCS, turn signal/ hazard, fog lights, trunk open, high beam and TPMS
• Outside temperature display
• Speedometer, odometer, dual trip odometer, tachometer, coolant temperature, TPMS & fuel level

 

Warning lights blink for:

• ABS
• airbag
• brake
• Charge
• check engine
• door ajar
• low fuel
• Oil pressure
• seatbelt
• trunk lid open

 

Warning Chimes

• Key in ignition w/door ajar and seatbelt not locked

 

Warranty

• Bumper-to-bumper, 5 years/60,000 miles
• Corrosion, 7 years/unlimited miles
• Powertrain, 10 years/100,000 miles
• Roadside assistance, 5 years/unlimited miles

 

Engine specifications:

• Bore & Stroke: 96 mm x 87 mm
• Compression Ratio: 10:4:1
• Displacement: 3.8 liters / 3,778 cc
• Horsepower: 260
• Materials: Aluminum block and head
• Torque: 257
• Type: DOHC CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) V6 (transverse mounted)
• Valves per cylinder: 4

 

Transmission system specifications:

Gear ratios (6-speed electronic automatic)

• First: 4.148:1
• Second 2.370:1
• Third: 1.556:1
• Fourth: 1.155:1
• Fifth: 0.859:1
• Sixth: 0.686:1
• Reverse: 3.394:1
• Final Drive : 3.2:1

 

Drive systems 

• 2WD
• Front-wheel drive

 

AWD

• Electronically-controlled all-wheel-drive system automatically routes power to the wheels that have the best traction. The driver-selectable AWD lock provides a continuous 50/50 torque split between front and rear wheels

 

Suspension

• Front
• 27 mm stabilizer bar
• coil springs
• gas-charged shock absorbers
• Independent MacPherson strut design

 

Rear 

• 17 mm stabilizer bar
• coil springs
• gas-charged shock absorbers
• Independent multi-link design

 

Steering type

• Power-assisted rack & pinion
• Turning diameter: 36.7 feet (curb to curb)

 

Brakes, tires, and wheels

• 17x7 aluminum alloy (GLS)
• 18x7 aluminum alloy (SE/Limited)
• 4-sensors with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
• ABS 4-channel
• Brake Assist
• Electronic Stability Control standard (all models)
• Front: 321 mm / 12.6 in. ventilated disc, twin piston
• P245/60R-18 (SE/Limited)
• P245/65R-17 (GLS)
• Rear: 324 mm / 12.8 in. sold disc, single piston
• Traction Control standard (all models)

As a member of the loyal Porsche fans group, one thing we need to know are the significant events, facts and figures and highlights of the company during the last decades ever since it existed in the automobile world. I like to share this to my fellow Porsche enthusiasts. I got these pieces of info when I was researching for Dodge neon air filters and Cadillac Escalade shock absorber. Anyway, to all interested Porsche fans, here are the things you need to know to become a full pledged Porsche fanatic!

1988

• The new generation of the 911 comes with the in-house code designation 964.
• Introduction of series is available first as a coupe, its six-cylinder boxer engine featuring double ignition, plus extra size and power (3600 cc, 250 bhp/ 184 kW). The old series remains in production with the 911 Speedster, strictly a two-seater with an extra-small windscreen.
• The Porsche 944 comes with a larger engine (2681 cc) and more power (165 bhp/121 kW) and is joined by the 944 Turbo (250 bhp/184 kW).
• The four-valve power unit of the 944 is increased in size and output to 2990 cc, 211 bhp/155 kW. The 944 S2 is available as both a coupé and cabriolet, the 944 Turbo receives an all-new five-speed gearbox.
   

1989 

• The 911 is now available with rear-wheel drive as the Carrera 2 coming both as a Targa and Cabriolet.
• Tiptronic is introduced at the same time, automatic transmission with a torque converter and four gears also allowing a sequential gearshift by means of the selector lever.
• The large model series is rounded off as of spring 1989 by the 928 GT with even more power (330 bhp/243 kW). The 911 Turbo is dropped from the range, production ceasing in autumn 1989.
   

1990 

• The new 911 Turbo enters the market in September with a 3299 cc power unit and a slight increase in power (320 bhp/235 kW).
   

1991 

• The Porsche 968 based in its design on the 928 replaces the 944. Output of the three-litre power unit is boosted to 240 bhp/176 kW.
• The 8-cylinder power unit of the Porsche 928 now featured in the GTS increases in both size and output (5397 cc, 350 bhp/257 kW), just as the 911 Carrera RS competition model also offers a slight boost in power (260 bhp/191 kW).
   

1992 

• The Porsche 911 Turbo comes with an even larger engine displacing 3600 cc and developing 360 bhp/265 kW. The 968 is introduced in two-seater Clubsport trim with leaned-down equipment and a lower price.
   

1993 

• Towards the middle of the year Porsche presents the thoroughly modified 911 code-named the 993 within the Company and featuring an even more streamlined body, the new multi-link rear axle and a choice of either six-speed manual gearbox or four-speed Tiptronic.
• Engine capacity remains unchanged; output increases even further (3600 cc, 272 bhp/200 kW). The new 993 is built initially as the Carrera coupe with rear-wheel drive.
   

1994 

• The new Carrera 4 enters production featuring a new drive concept with power transmitted to the wheels via a viscous coupling. As the "basic model" for racing Porsche builds the 911 Carrera RS with an extra-light body, a larger, fixed-position rear spoiler and a more powerful engine (3746 cc, 300 bhp/221 kW).
• In spring 1994 Porsche ceases production of the 993 Cabriolet.
   

1995 

• The new 911 Turbo displaces 3600 cc and develops maximum output of 408 bhp/300 kW. It also features the four-wheel-drive concept of the Carrera 4.
• The even more dynamic GT2 version of the Turbo, in turn, comes exclusively with rear-wheel drive and offers even more power (430 bhp/316 kW). In September the 911 Carrera also receives extra power (285 bhp/210 kW), and at the same time a new Porsche Targa with a sliding glass roof enters production.
   

1996 

• Public launch of the Boxster at the 1996 Paris Motor Show. A mid-engined roadster, the Boxster reveals Porsche's new generation of power units with very convincing facts and figures (2480 cc, 204 bhp/150 kW).
• Six water-cooled cylinders in horizontally opposed arrangement, four overhead camshafts with VarioCam, four valves per cylinder and integrated dry sump lubrication are the technical highlights.
   

1997 

• Porsche presents an all-new 911 with slightly larger body dimensions but still in the same classic style as its predecessor – plus further improved suspension and a more powerful version of the new water-cooled boxer engine (3387 cc, 300 bhp/221 kW).
• The Porsche Carrera 4S, Targa and Porsche 911 Turbo remain in production unchanged until March 1998.
   

1998 

• The 911 Cabriolet based on the new model is presented to the public in March, its roof opening and closing electrohydraulically at the touch of a button. An aluminium hardtop comes as standard, as do the sidebags on both doors.

 

Log in to http://www.ukcar.com/history/porsche/index.html for the complete details.

If you’re interested in Renault’s newest model, the Scenic Conquest, I have the basic information you need to know about this car. It can either help you get some information or make you crave to have one of this for your very own! This is indeed a vehicle for adventures and nature trips and I bet that campers and adventure buffs will love this car!

The latest version comes in a selection of ten body colors, including one exclusive to this model. 

v      Exclusive color: cayenne orange

v      Opaque color: royal bleu

v      Metallic paint: pearl black, steel grey, platinum grey, eclipse grey, grey-beige, storm blue, iceberg blue and dusk blue

Standard equipment on Scenic Conquest includes all Scenic Dynamique features, plus this:

v      ESP

v      Parking proximity sensors

v      Celsius 17” aluminium wheels

v      Sliding central stowage compartment

v      Luggage net

v      Roof bars

The Scenic Conquest comes with a choice of three engines: (Price in Euros)

v      2.0 16 v 135 hp: 24,550

v      1.9 dCi 130 hp: 26,700

v      1.9 dCi 130 hp FAP: 27,200

Options for Scenic Conquest include all those available on Scenic Dynamique plus a front radar, xenon headlamps and an integral body color.

The Scenic Conquest will be on sale in June 2007 in France, although from May 11, dealers will be following instructions and orders for the vehicle already.