automotive info

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class

2011-11-03T03:21:00.000-07:00

2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK Class redesign in 2004 gave the SLK a body that put it more in line with the current SL. Front- and rear-end styling is sculpted, and is much more aggressive and mature than the first generation model.

The SLK Mercedes-Benz is an ideal, small, reasonably priced car. The SLK is very much like the Mercedes-Benz SL, but the SL is larger. The SLK seats two passengers, and it has a hardtop, retractable roof. Launched in the late 1990s, the SLK was engineered as a competitor to the BMW Z3 and the Porsche Boxster. Later, the Z3 was replaced by the Z4, and the Cayman was Porsche's Boxster update. The TT coupe/convertible was introduced by Audi as well.

In 2009, the SLK got new wheels and a new nose. Three models were offered in 2009: the SLK300, the 350, and the 55 AM. The SLK is offered with a manual tranny, a feature it shares with the SL. The vehicle also has a 3.5 Liter engine that has been improved so it offers an additional 32 horsepower and 7 foot-pounds of torque.

Faced with growing competition, Mercedes-Benz introduced the second generation of the SLK with improved body lines, new engines, and a body that was longer and heavier than its predecessors. Now, these characteristics remain in current models

Specifications :
Body styles: Convertible
Engines: 3.0L V-6, 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic
Models: SLK300, SLK350
SLK300: 17-19 mpg city/26 mpg highway
SLK350: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
Stability control, traction control, and four-wheel discs with ABS with brake assist come standard. There are dual stage airbags and knee airbags, plus head-thorax airbags, which are integrated into the backrests of the seats.

2011 Audi A6

2011-11-03T02:48:00.000-07:00

The 2011 Audi A6 is available in two body styles: a four-door sedan and a wagon known as the Avant. There are three trim levels -- Premium, Premium Plus and Prestige -- and their availability depends on engine choice.

The Premium (3.2 and 3.0T) comes standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic headlights and wipers, heated mirrors, a sunroof, automatic climate control, eight-way power seats (includes lumbar adjustment), partial leather upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth, a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic, Audi's MMI and a 10-speaker stereo with six-disc CD changer, satellite radio and an iPod interface. The 3.0T Premium adds heated front seats and, on the Avant, a power liftgate.

Opting for the Premium Plus (3.2 and 3.0T) gets you 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, self-leveling xenon headlights, LED running lights, auto-dimming exterior and interior mirrors, and driver memory functions.
The Prestige trim (3.0T and 4.2) brings with it adaptive headlights, keyless ignition/entry, a rearview camera, power-adjustable steering wheel, shift paddles and a Bose sound system with DVD-audio capability.

The 2011 Audi A6 continues to offer one of the finest cabins in its class, with an attractive dash layout, excellent materials quality and impressive fit and finish.

All A6 models come with the Multi Media Interface (MMI), which controls entertainment, communication and standard navigation functions via the dash-mounted LCD screen and a knob and buttons on the center console. All A6 models have Audi's most recent MMI system, which has more logical menus, crisper graphics and a joystick-like control on top of the system's control knob to increase functionality.

The A6 sedan offers a trunk with a capacity of 16 cubic feet. Because of its sleek roof line, the Avant wagon offers only 34 cubic feet behind its rear seats and just 59 cubes with them folded -- a far cry from the 71 cubic feet that the Volvo V70 will carry.

Standard safety equipment on the 2011 Audi A6 includes antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Rear side airbags, a rearview camera, rear parking sensors and a blind-spot warning system are either optional or included with the upper trims.

In Edmunds brake testing, the all-wheel-drive 3.0T came to a stop from 60 mph in 121 feet -- an average performance. A 4.2 with 19-inch wheels and summer tires stopped in a more impressive 114 feet.

Engine & Performance:

Base engine size: 3.0 L
Cam type: Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Direct injection
Cylinders: V6
Valves: 24
Valve timing: Variable
Base engine type: gas
Torque: 310 ft-lbs. @ 2500 rpm
Horsepower: 300 hp @ 5100 rpm
Turning circle: 39.0 ft.

Land Rover Range Rover Sport

2011-11-02T16:26:00.000-07:00

The Range Rover Sport is actually a modified and shortened version of the old Land Rover LR3. As such, the Sport is the smallest and most nimble SUV in the company's lineup. Overall, it is an enjoyable and luxurious vehicle to drive as well as look at.

The Range Rover Sport debuted for the 2006 model year and is still in its first generation. However, there are notable differences between the current model and those made from 2006-'09.

The Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a premium SUV that represents a shift in focus for this SUV-oriented luxury brand. While traditional Land Rover models have combined unbeatable off-road performance with the amenities of a luxury sedan, the Range Rover Sport represents Land Rover's first entry into the burgeoning high-performance SUV arena. It is designed to offer sporty road manners and traditional Land Rover luxury without completely sacrificing the go-anywhere abilities of other Land Rover models.

The Range Rover Sport is offered in two trim levels, both featuring 5.0-liter V8s. The HSE model produces 375 horsepower and 375 pound-feet of torque, while the Supercharged model's V8 develops an impressive 501 hp and 461 lb-ft. Both engines are paired with a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control.

Off-road performance is still within the Range Rover Sport's repertoire as well. A permanent four-wheel-drive system with a two-speed transfer case is standard, and features an electronically controlled, infinitely variable locking center differential that automatically distributes the available torque to both drive axles as needed. Additionally, the Range Rover Sport's Terrain Response System assures that the driver will be up to nearly any off-road task. It offers five different settings that adjust throttle response, gearchanges, vehicle ride height and the differentials to optimize mobility in varying environments, ranging from pavement to sand.

Infiniti QX56

2011-11-02T16:08:00.000-07:00

The Infiniti QX56 has been redesigned for 2011. Unlike the previous-generation model, which was related to the U.S.-built Nissan Armada pickup truck, the new QX56 is based on the Japan-built Nissan Patrol, a dedicated all-wheel-drive utility vehicle that is the company's answer to the Toyota Land Cruiser.

The first-generation QX56 debuted for the 2004 model year and lasted until 2010. It shared its chassis and other major mechanicals with the Armada SUV and Titan pickup. Under the hood the QX came with a 5.6-liter V8 that produced 320 hp and 393 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic was standard, and buyers could choose between rear-wheel- and four-wheel drive. There was only one available trim level, and pretty much every feature was standard. The few notable options included a rear-seat entertainment system, adaptive cruise control and a sunroof.

Powering the Infiniti QX56 is a 5.6-liter V8 that produces 400 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. A seven-speed automatic is the only transmission offered and features manual shift control with rev-matched downshifts. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with four-wheel drive optional. When properly equipped, the QX can tow an impressive 8,500 pounds and is aided by a tow/haul mode for the transmission as well as an automatic-leveling rear suspension.

The Infiniti QX56 full-size SUV seats seven or eight passengers and comes loaded with a wealth of standard features like 20-inch wheels, xenon headlights, tri-zone automatic climate control, a top-view camera system, a power-folding third-row bench seat and a 13-speaker Bose audio system. Options are arranged in a succession of packages, most of which require the preceding option package. Highlights include an active suspension system, a twin-screen rear entertainment system, ventilated front seats, adaptive cruise control and a host of high-tech safety features designed to either prevent a crash or protect the occupants in the event of one.

Hummer H3 SUV

2011-11-02T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Hummer H3 was a redesign of sorts. As an off road vehicle the Hummer H3 was still a leader that couldn’t be caught. It could still climb, drive through terrain that left others stuck in the mud, and still held a very proud position for doing it all with that specialized look and outfitting. One the roadways, the Hummer H3 was a little slow to get up and go and didn’t offer the cargo space or the passenger space that was expected. Looking at the vehicle from the outside gave a false impression that the interior would have preserved the spaciousness while making it fit into a regular parking space.

The general interior design was given an upgrade, easy to reach controls, dual zone climate control, Bluetooth connectivity, a 6 speaker CD system, cruise control, and power accessories. For the best model year, 2008, side curtain airbags were part of the standard package and a rearview camera was available if the consumer wanted it as an option. Stability control was added as a standard during the 2007 model year.

The Hummer H3 was launched with a 3.5 liter straight-5 cylinder L52 engine that produced 220 hp (160 kW) and 225 ft·lbf (305 N·m) of torque and was mated to a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional Hydra-Matic 4L60-E four-speed automatic transmission. In 2007 this engine was replaced by 3.7 liter LLR that produced 242 hp (180 kW) and 242 ft·lbf (328 N·m) of torque, figures that were revised in 2009 to 239 hp (178 kW) and 241 ft·lbf (327 N·m)

The Hummer H3 was a valiant attempt to combine the best of Hummer with real world driving and living. The off road performance was exceptional but the vehicle didn’t make enough of an impression on the average consumer to continue producing it. Once the 2010 model year came to a close, so did the production of the H3.

Hummer H3 Technical Specifications :
Engine: 3.7L I5 239HP
Fuel Economy: 14 City / 18 Highway
Standard Transmission: 5 speed manual
Seating: 5 Seats
Fuel Capacity: 23 gallons

Ferrari 599 GTO 2011

2011-10-23T11:41:00.000-07:00

The Ferrari 599 GTO is automotif powered by a V12 engine delivering a total of 670 HP at 8250 rpm with a maximum torque of 620 Nm at 6500 rpm. It rockets the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.35 seconds, while top speed goes up to 208 mph. Maybe the most impressive thing about the 599 GTO is the lapping time on the Fiorano test track: 1 minute and 24 seconds. For those of us keeping track, that’s faster than the Enzo’s time.

The sports car features new front splitter, side sills, diffuser and rear spoiler, a new vented hood, and ten-spoke, 20" wheels. It has a dry weight of 1495 kg and a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.23 kg/hp. The 599 GTO is also equipped with the latest, second-generation carbon-ceramic brakes which are lighter and offer better performance

Automotif classification:

ENGINE
Type: V12 – 65°
Bore & stroke : 92 x 75.2 mm (3.62 x 2.96 in)
Unitary displacement: 499.9 cc (30.51 cu in)
Total displacement: 5999 cc (366.08 cu in)
Compression ratio: 11.2:1
Maximum power: 500 kW (670 CV) at 8250 rpm
Maximum torque : 620 Nm (457 lbs/ft) at 6500 rpm

DIMENSIONS AND WEIGHT
Length: 4710 mm (185.4 in)
Width: 1962 mm (77.2 in)
Height: 1326 mm (52.2 in)
Wheelbase: 2750 mm (108.3 in)
Front track: 1701 mm (67.0 in)
Rear track: 1618 mm (63.7 in)
Dry weight*: 1495 kg (3296 lbs)
Kerb weight*: 1605 kg (3538 lbs)
Weight distribution: 47% front – 53% rear
Fuel tank capacity: 105 litres (27.7 US gal/23.1 UK/gal)
Boot volume: 320 litres (11.3 cu ft)

ELECTRONIC CONTROLS
CST with F1-Trac: Traction and stability control
TPTMS: Tyre pressure and temperature monitoring system

PERFORMANCE
Maximum speed: over 335 km/h (over 208 mph)
0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) : 3.35 sec
GEARBOX
F1 6–speed + reverse

SUSPENSION
SCM2 – Magnetorheological Supension Control

TYRES
Front: 285/30 ZR20’’
Rear: 315/35 ZR20’’

CARBON-CERAMIC BRAKES
Front: 398 x 38 mm (15.7 x 1.5 in)
Rear: 360 x 32 mm (14.2 x 1.3 in)

FUEL CONSUMPTION
Combined cycle (ECE)*: 17.5 l/100 km

CO2 EMISSIONS
Combined cycle (ECE)*: 411 g/km

BMW X5

2011-10-21T22:24:00.000-07:00

The BMW X5 is a luxury crossover SUV introduced in 1999 as the first generation E53. It was BMW's first SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle) also known as "Four-by-Four" (4x4) in the UK. It features all-wheel drive which is branded as the "X" drive system and is available with either manual or automatic transmission. The second generation X5, known as the E70, was launched in 2006, with the first M version announced in 2009.

The BMW E70 is the second generation X5 Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV). It replaced the BMW X5 (E53) in November 2006. The second generation X5 features many new technological advancements including BMW's iDrive system as standard equipment and, for the first time in a BMW, an optional third row seat. This generation incorporates safety innovations for the crossover segment, such as a unique rear framing section to protect 3rd row occupants from injury due to an impact.

The X5 was revised for the 2011 year featuring new front bumper and air intakes as well as a variety of minor cosmetic changes. For the gasoline-powered X5 models, the naturally-aspirated engines (N52 straight-6, N62 V8) were replaced by turbocharged engines (N55 single-turbo straight-6, N63 twin-turbo V8) which will also be mated to 8-speed automatic transmissions. The xDrive35d received the same exterior changes as the rest of the lineup but otherwise no other updates.

Classification

Engine
3.0 L 272 hp I6
3.0 L 306 hp I6 Single Turbo
3.0 L 265 hp Diesel TT I6
4.8 L 355 hp V8
4.4 L 555 hp V8 Twin Turbo

Transmission
6 speed automatic, 8-speed Prundletronic

Wheelbase
2,933 mm (115.5 in)
Length 4,860 mm (191.3 in)
Width 1,933 mm (76.1 in)
Height 2006–2008: 1,766 mm (69.5 in)
2009–: 1,776 mm (69.9 in)

Lexus LFA 2011

2011-10-21T13:41:00.000-07:00

The LFA marks a watershed point for Lexus – its global debut marks the spectacular arrival of a new flagship for the F portfolio of Lexus performance models. A Lexus that single-handedly creates new boundaries to redefine the supercar for the 21st Century.

The LFA is a car of firsts. It is the first supercar developed by Lexus to meet and exceed the company’s exacting standards, and it is the first supercar that is as dynamic and engaging around the Nürburgring Nordschleife as it is tackling a favorite mountain pass. Featuring advanced carbon fiber technology, a high-revving 552 hp (412kW/560DIN hp) 4.8-liter naturally aspirated V10 engine and rear-mounted six-speed sequential transmission, the mid-front engine LFA combines lightweight construction and ideal chassis balance to deliver exhilarating and usable 202 mph (325km/h) performance.
Only 500 LFA vehicles are planned for production, all hand-assembled by “Lexus LFA Works” at the Motomachi Plant in Toyota City by skilled technicians at a rate of no more than 20 per month

Specification

Drivertrain
Brakes (F) : Disc, Carbon Ceramic Material, cross-drilled and ventilated
Brakes (R) : Disc, Carbon Ceramic Material, cross-drilled and ventilated

Engine
Compression Ratio : 12.0:1
Bore X Stroke : 3.46 x 3.11 (88 x 79)
Cylinders : 10-cylinders, 72° V-type

Engine & Transmission
Displacement cu in (cc) : 4805

Performance
Acceleration 0-60 mph s : 3.6
Max Torque : 354 lb-ft/480 Nm/48.9 kgf-m@6,800rpm

i still love deepdown

2011-09-23T10:01:00.001-07:00

i still love deepdown