Senin, 27 Februari 2012

All New Hyundai Accent 2012 Specs and Review





Hyundai has unwrapped the all-new Accent 2012 at the Montreal Auto Show. This comes as a surprise as Hyundai Motor America had said the car wouldn’t break cover until the New York Auto Show in April. With an attractive exterior, exceptional fuel economy ratings, a roomy cabin and plenty of cargo space, the automotive press thinks the 2012 Hyundai Accent is a hot-ticket item. A vehicle that made its name in the industry as being a low cost option for those on a budget, Hyundai aims to keep that price structure while out-doing the competition in every other aspect.


Underwhelming performance and limited interior features left the 2011 Hyundai Accent in the dust compared to small cars like the Ford Fiesta, Honda Fit and Mazda2. Hyundai hopes to change the Accent’s bargain bin reputation with a redesigned 2012 model that has a stylish exterior, more tech features and a lot more horsepower.

“Before, the Accent perfectly represented the bland aesthetics and underwhelming excitement that most subcompact buyers settled for,” writes Edmunds. “This all-new version of the entry-level Hyundai now shares the sharp styling of the similarly reimagined Sonata and Elantra, making it more an object of pride than embarrassment for a new owner."

As a whole, the automotive press agrees with Edmunds. Owners of the 2012 Hyundai Accent won’t park behind their office building, and kids won’t duck in their seats, because the 2012 Accent is a cute little car that sheds the 2011 model’s frumpy exterior.

Stacked against competitors, the Accent’s 138-horsepower engine makes the most horsepower, but according to reviewers, it’s not the most fun to drive. The Mazda2 and Honda Fit top the Accent in that department, even though the Mazda2 makes just 100 horsepower and the Fit makes 117. But for shoppers looking for an inexpensive vehicle with a standard USB port, satellite radio, good trunk space, comfortable front and rear seats and the highest non-hybrid fuel economy ratings in the class, the 2012 Hyundai Accent is a dependable, practical and affordable pick.

Hyundai Accent 2012 joined the line-up of the Statue of increasingly popular sport Fluidic design company. Vehicle exterior lines are meant to be futuristic, dynamic, and sleek. In a segment typically associated with staid designs, Accent stands out from the crowd. While the styling provides an attractive form, it is also functional, featuring a slippery 0.30 coefficient of drag. Five-door model includes trunk lid-mounted spoiler sporty. For a firm stand, 16 "alloy wheels are available.

Hyundai gave the Accent a complete overhaul for the 2012 model year. Changes start on the outside with an exterior that matches other models in the Hyundai lineup like the Elantra and Sonata. The 2012 Hyundai Accent also gets a more powerful 1.6-liter engine that makes 138 horsepower, a figure that tops the Mazda2 and Ford Fiesta. The cabin is larger than the outgoing model, and is available with more features such as optional Bluetooth and standard USB connectivity and satellite radio, but navigation and a sunroof are not available at all.

Available in four-door and five-door formats, Accent redefines expectations in the subcompact category by offering the company's attractive “Fluidic Sculpture” design, best-in-class fuel economy, and a full complement of standard safety features. Despite surprising technology and a significant increase in safety features, Hyundai will hold the line on pricing from the prior generation to continue delivering unmistakable value to customers.

2012 Accent is powered by direct-injection 138-hp 1.6-liter 4-cylinder that makes 123 ft-lbs of torque and, according to Canadian press release received 4.7 L / 100 km highway and 6.4 L/100 km regardless of whether you choose the 6-speed automatic or manual. That works out to 50-mpg highway and the incredible 37-mpg city. (The figures, however, the empire and in the United States, you look more closely into the 41-mpg and 30.5 mpg).

Having grown in size, the new Accent now 70mm (2.7 inches) longer and wider between the wheel 5mm. This not only makes the added interior space, but the Accent also provides a considerable amount of cargo volume with 14 cu-ft with a sedan trunk space and 17.2 cu-ft with the plane door. Despite all this, the weight is kept to a minimum, with a new Accent sedan weighs only 2392 pounds, while the hatchback is slightly heavier at 2429 pounds.

The 2012 Accent’s all-aluminum 1.6-litre Gamma 4-cylinder engine utilizes the latest engine technology to deliver a class-leading 138 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque and an estimated best-in-class 4.7 L/100 km highway fuel economy rating.

The most prominent features of the machine is the use of Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI), a first for the subcompact category. By precisely controlling the fuel injection, GDI allows for better fuel economy, increased power and reduced emissions. Application of Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (D-CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts allows for further improvements in efficiency, fuel economy and emissions. To optimize breathing at all engine speeds, Variable Induction System (VIS) are used. Other elements that include reduced fuel consumption Alternator Management System, an offset crankshaft design, and electronic throttle control. To reduce lifetime operating costs and improve reliability, Gamma has a maintenance-free silent timing chain.

Several other systems have been improved over the outgoing model, each contributing to improved fuel efficiency. All models feature 6-speed automatic or manual transmission with well-spaced ratios for smooth and efficient power delivery. Low-rolling resistance silica tires and slippery shape (0.30 cd) reduce friction with the road and air. Finally, the function ActiveECO modify the engine and transmission control to smooth out throttle response. By activating the function ActiveECO, drivers can realize up to seven per cent increase in the real world fuel economy. The results of real-world driving range of efficiencies is estimated to 915 km highway.

Although the technology for additional content, security features, and packed into an all-new Accent, Hyundai has avoided the punishment typically associated weight increase. A lower curb weight corresponding to an increase not only in fuel economy, but all other dynamic areas. In fact, Accent offers a ratio of power-to-weight in its class so far, providing drivers with both low fuel consumption and responsive performance.
READ MORE - All New Hyundai Accent 2012 Specs and Review

Minggu, 12 Februari 2012

New Grand Vitara 2012 Review


The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a revolutionary car that offers sleek design and a powerful engine for emptors who consider power over any other comfort. The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara ranks 9 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on analysis of 74 published reviews and test drives of the Suzuki Grand Vitara, and analysis of reliability and safety data.

The automobile if equipped with a 4WD or rear -wheel drive system that makes it a completely new and much-awaited toy to play. The car comes will be exposed to the emptors in the form of two models- Limited model and touring model. Suzuki Vitara 2012 has a robust and reliable engine, which is powered with A 2.7 litre engine that has the ability to generate 183 horsepower and 180 pounds per foot of torque.


2012 Grand Vitara engines are fitted to 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions. The standard towing capacity of 2012 Vitara is an amazing 3000 pounds. Some of the other important mechanical features that furnish the car include independent suspension at front as well as rear, antilock brakes, power assisted steering et cetera.

The Vitara 2012 is a medium-sized family SUV that offers off a sporty look and provides enough space in its interior. Has a wheelbase of 12.1 inches longer, which means a larger passenger cabin. Overall length of the base is 19.1 inches. This car is equipped with a supersized version of the V6 Grand Vitara is. Suzuki Grand Vitara 2012 offers a lower end of the climbing gear and accommodate five or more seated passengers with the optional third-row seats. Many changes have been introduced in parts of the 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara.

The Suzuki Grand Vitara seats five and is available in base, Premium, Ultimate Adventure Edition and Limited trims. The Ultimate Adventure Edition is new for 2012, and has front fog lamps, new side mirrors, 18-inch wheels, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and heated, water resistant seats. Other changes across the lineup include the removal of the spare tire on all but the Limited model and an upgraded Garmin navigation system that is standard on all models.


Inside, the Vitara offers standard navigation, but a USB port, which is expected in this class, isn’t available, and Bluetooth is optional. Reviewers also complain that while the cabin offers plenty of space, the seats are hard. You may also find its cargo area hard to configure. Folding the seats flat is a multi-step process.

With so much stacked against the Vitara, it’s easy to give this compact SUV the boot, but reviewers say that it’s still worth your consideration, especially if you want standard navigation. That’s a rarity in any class.

Grand Vitara Performance - 7.2 (Good)
If you’re in the market for an inexpensive SUV with optional all-wheel drive that is good for commuting, reviewers say the 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara is a decent choice, though it isn’t the best in the class.

Grand Vitara Exterior - 9.3 (Excellent)
While the 2012 Grand Vitara has an exterior that is more traditional than models like the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tuscon, reviewers are glad the Vitara’s exterior is simple.

Grand Vitara Interior - 7.8 (Good)
The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara has standard navigation, a feature that impresses test drivers, but the Vitara’s hard seats and rear seats that are difficult to fold don’t receive much praise.

Grand Vitara Safety - 7.6 (Good)
The 2012 Suzuki Grand Vitara receives average safety scores from the insurance industry, and its standard safety features are on par for the class.

Grand Vitara Reliability - NA
Suzuki provides a three-year/36,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty and a seven-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty for the 2012 Vitara.
READ MORE - New Grand Vitara 2012 Review

Kamis, 09 Februari 2012

New Honda CR-V 2012





The CR-V is the best-selling SUV/crossover in America. Honda sold nearly 204,000 of them last year outselling the Chevrolet Malibu. Whenever you're dealing with a product that popular, you've got to proceed with caution when it comes time to make changes. The CR-V has built a loyal following of repeat buyers, and an ill-conceived update could torpedo sales.


Front exterior styling CR-V looks to be a little more cohesive than its predecessor. From these photos, we can see the lattice three-bar protruding through the front camouflage, so expect the nose to resemble the look and Odyssey Crosstour latest. Move to the side, a small ute appears to adopt a more streamlined and tailored. Fold of the upper body seems to sweep up as the head back and split the second door handle, with a suitable window line. Display more aggressive than the current model, which shamelessly to set more attractive to female buyers. The new taillights CR-V continues to rise at the rear pillars, though they are now very similar to those found in the Volvo XC60 Volvo in part because of the same shape-esque to hatch and rear glass.

Take fuel economy. Thanks to obsessive anti-friction measures, Honda has picked up another 3 mpg highway on 2WD and AWD models and 1-2 mpg city, respectively. To get there, Honda reduced friction everywhere from the engine's piston rings to the transmission's clutch packs, and reduced the body's aerodynamic drag. The engineers added everything from underbody aerodynamic panels to a transmission fluid warmer that lets them run a lower-viscosity fluid in search of extra efficiency. It's a bit lighter, too. The effort even netted an extra 5 hp and smoother curves for both horsepower and torque output.


Then there's the AWD system, which is now much more active. Whereas the old system was effectively a 2WD unit until the front wheels slipped, the new system routes power rearward right from the start. Rather than let the rear axle go slack at a stop, the new system maintains pressure on the drivetrain, and routes power to the front and rear wheels under acceleration for faster, smoother launches. To the average driver, it will simply feel like the rear end isn't squatting as much under acceleration, as there's less weight transfer. Once underway and at a steady cruising speed, the system reverts to 2WD for better efficiency.

There are plenty more examples. Thanks to additional insulation and sound deadening, the new CR-V is a bit quieter inside. Despite being about 1 inch shorter in height and length, the new car doesn't give up any interior volume or passenger space. In fact, clever packaging has added 1.5 cubic feet to the cargo area and lengthened the load floor by 5 inches by folding the rear seats. Those seats now feature Honda's one-touch folding system, which drops the headrest, pops the seat cushion up and out of the way, and folds the seatback nearly flat, all by simply pulling a strap under the seat cushion or a handle in the cargo area. The rear seats still recline and provide more legroom than most sedans.

If there's one area where Honda has delivered more than a 10-percent improvement, it's in the styling. The Jay Leno chin is banished in favor of a sleek, modern front end complemented by a more raked windshield and a new tail that wouldn't look out of place on a Volvo. The new interior is more modern as well, and feels larger and roomier than the exterior would suggest. The new dash is more stylish and less utilitarian, and we like the standard 5-inch color display up near the windshield almost as much as we dislike the comically oversized buttons on the stereo. And while you'd think those massive D-pillars would be a hindrance to outward visibility, they fall right behind the rear-seat headrests in your line of sight, and really don't cause any trouble.


There are some places where Honda has been too conservative. It's finally begun to put six-speed transmissions in some of its cars, but the new CR-V still isn't one of these. Worse, Honda has made the five-speed's gears longer for better efficiency, to the detriment of passing performance. Drop the hammer, and you'll often find yourself in a higher gear than you'd like, and below the powerband, which peaks rather high in the rev range. The CR-V is also still louder inside than the competition; there's too much engine vibration in the cabin at idle; the SMS texting only works with Blackberries; the Pandora integration works only with USB-tethered iPhones; the nav is still showing its age; and those taller than 6 feet will hit their heads on the open tailgate.

To CR-V buyers, though, these are likely to be small quibbles. The 2012 CR-V will give them everything they loved about the old model, plus a little more. While a bit of polishing here and there isn't all that exciting for a new model, this isn't an "exciting" market segment. The new CR-V is exactly what it needs to be: another heart-of-market people-mover that'll sell hundreds of thousands of copies to buyers who rank fuel economy and versatility above all else. For that, Honda's nailed it again.
READ MORE - New Honda CR-V 2012

Jumat, 03 Februari 2012

New Ford F Series 2012 Review


The 2012 Ford F-Series Super Duty launched with best-in-class performance and capability, and a continuous stream of improvements for 2012 keeps this heavy-duty pickup at the head of the pack. The 2012 Ford F-Series Super Duty is built at Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville.

2012 Ford F-Series will be available to the company's gasoline-sipping 6.8-liter V10. Three-valve, single-overhead camshaft-V10 rated at 362-horsepower at 4,750 rpm and 457 lb.-ft. of torque at 3250 rpm. According to Ford, gross vehicle weight ratings for Class 6 and Class 7 medium-duty trucks equipped with a V10 petrol units will range from 20 500 to 30,000 pounds.

"No other manufacturer offers this kind of variety of options and solutions for truck customers," said Len Deluca, director of Ford Commercial Truck Sales and Marketing. "The availability of gas engines in medium-duty segment will be welcome news for many businesses and municipalities.


V10 engine will be connected to the transmission of the same heavy-duty six-speed automatic used on the 6.7 liter TorqShift Power Stroke V8 turbocharged diesel engine is the new 2011 Ford F power-Series Super Duty trucks.

As an option, the company will offer buyers the same alternative fuel engine package that will be available this fall on a super duty truck F-450 and F-550 cab chassis that uses 6.8-liter V10. Factory-installed option conversion allows the use of compressed natural gas (CNG) or propane (LPG, or liquefied petroleum gas).

Responding to customer demand, F-150 EcoBoost now has a driving range of 756 miles between fill-ups. That long-distance highway cruising range is designed to save F-150 drivers time by reducing stops for fuel.

'We know the majority of our customers use their F-150s daily for work or play. It's an essential tool that enhances their productivity,' said Doug Scott, Ford Truck Group Marketing manager. 'Reducing downtime for fuel stops can help them do their jobs more efficiently or get more out of their leisure time.'


The 2012 F-150 EcoBoost 4x4, for example, can be driven nonstop from Atlanta to Detroit or from Houston to El Paso on a single tank of gas. It can go from Sierra, Calif., to Ram Lake, Ore., wîth 355 miles to spare. With only one fill-up along the way, the 2012 F-150 EcoBoost can be driven from Silverado, Calif., to Tundra, Texas, at a distance of 1,496 miles.

The larger gas tank enables the 2012 F-150 EcoBoost to easily go farther on a tank of fuel than competitive full-sized V6 pickups.

For instance, the V6 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 4x4 has a 26-gallon tank and an 18 mpg EPA highway rating for a total driving range of 468 miles per tank – 288 miles fewer than the F-150. The Toyota Tundra V6 4x2 pickup will run out of gas after just 528 highway miles.

The F-150's 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine, which debuted earlier this year, has quickly become the industry's top-selling V6 engine in full-sized pickups. The F-150 EcoBoost outsells all competitive V6 full-sized trucks – Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Sierra, Toyota Tundra and Dodge Ram – combined.


Since April, the F-150 EcoBoost has accounted for more than 40 percent of all F-150 sales. The EcoBoost engine, which can tow an industry-leading 11,300 pounds, is a $750 upgrade over the 5.0-liter V8.

'The F-150's 365-horsepower, 420 lb.-ft. of torque EcoBoost engine already delivers best-in-class towing,' said Scott. 'Now, the 36-gallon fuel tank gives Ford truck customers an unbeatable combination of capability and driving range.'

The F-Series was the best-selling truck in America for the 34th year in a row and the best-selling vehicle – car or truck – for the 29th year in a row.

Demand for the fuel-efficient EcoBoost engine in the F-150 has increased each month since launch. One in four Ford F-150 pickups sold in March was powered by a 3.5-liter EcoBoost™ V6. In April, EcoBoost F-150 sales ran at about 37 percent. In the F-150, the EcoBoost engine wîth its 365 horsepower and 420 lb.-ft. of torque provides best-in-class towing capability of 11,300 pounds combined wîth up to 20 percent fuel economy savings. Source - Ford
READ MORE - New Ford F Series 2012 Review

Kamis, 02 Februari 2012

Nissan Frontier 2012 Specs And Review


Nissan has the longest history in the U.S. between the sales of imported cars and compact pickup trucks medium. Current small trucks, Nissan Frontier, which combines premium hardware, extraordinary power and off-road athleticism, continues to be a leader in the medium truck segment. With a choice of two body configurations, 4x4 and 4x2 drive, a powerful 261-horsepower 4.0 liter V6 or a 152-horsepower 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder (King Cab only) engine, and fuel mileage is good (17 cities , 21 highway, King Cab 2WD), Frontier again offers an exceptional level of family or work performance to fit almost any need or budget. Revised for the 2012 model year include the addition of a new Sport Appearance Package on Crew Cab and King Cab SV model.

Authentic Truck Style, Innovation to Get the Job Done The mid-size Nissan Frontier emulates many of the Nissan Titan's full-size features, including its bold, expressive and adventurous exterior styling.


Nissan Frontier uses the theme of the signature Nissan truck, including the buffer slanted grille, large bumpers, short front and rear overhangs and large, stamped steel, geometric fender flares. Bed length model is the Frontier Crew Cab is available with the SV and SL Crew Cab. Larger than 13 inches longer than the Crew Cab standard bed, the Long Bed models offer the roomy interior of the Crew Cab, plus a bedroom of the extended King Cab. 2012 Frontier also offers levels of innovation in the areas that matter most to truck owners - the bed. Both Frontier King Cab and Crew Cab offer a high-utility bed that includes an available factory-applied spray-on bedliner and conception-track ™ tie-down system. Conception of the song system, first introduced on the Nissan Titan, providing a major cargo transport flexibility through the use of five special 'C' cross-section rails mounted in the bed (two channels in the bed floor, and on each side of the bed rails and header panels where sleep).

Frontier Crew Cab also offers a tilt leather-appointed interior and available available and sliding moonroof. Enough power for Active Lifestyle Heart and soul of the Frontier rugged F-Alpha platform. Starting with a full size, fully boxed ladder frame, the F-Alpha platform provides the foundation for building rugged. Constructed of high-tensile strength steel, the platform provides structural rigidity for rock-solid performance on-and off-road.

The length of 125.9 inches wheelbase Frontier helps improve ride comfort, while the overall length of 205.5 inches (King Cab and Crew Cab Regular Bed) is a perfect "activity size" for buyers who do not really need a full-size pickup. Frontier shares the suspension layout and many component designs with the Titan, including the all-steel double wishbone front suspension and solid axle rear suspension with leaf springs overslung and a long suspension stroke for off-road performance.


Exceptional acceleration, towing capacity and all-around off-roading capability is provided, on a large scale, with a powerful engine - a 4.0-liter DOHC V6 that produces 261 horsepower and 281 lb-ft of torque. 4.0-liter DOHC V6 engine specifically tuned to the unique needs of the use of trucks. Besides smooth torque delivery, the V6 offers good fuel efficiency and smooth operation. Design 4.0 liter V6 includes Continuously Variable Valve Timing Control System (CVTCS), Nissan variable Induction Control System (NICS), silent timing chain, camshaft and crankshaft surfaces microfinished, Teflon ®-coated pistons, resin intake manifold, forged crankshaft, digital knock control system , high capacity muffler, lightweight aluminum block and cylinder heads and 105,000 mile spark plugs. Frontier V6 is assembled at Nissan's advanced engine production facility in Decherd, Tenn., which also produces Titan's 5.6-liter V8.

A powerful 2.5-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder with 152 horsepower and 171 lb-ft of torque, as well. Frontier King Cab is available in S-SV-I4 I4 and Frontier 4x2 model is offered with a choice of transmissions - a smooth 5-speed automatic, 6-speed manual or 5-speed manual transmission (King Cab 4-cylinder model). Frontier 4x4 models include a shift-on-the-fly four-wheel-drive system with electronic 2WD/4H/4LO mode operated by part-time transfer case controlled. Frontier 4x4 models are available with 4-wheel limited-slip system, which helps transfer power to the drive wheels with more grip on low traction surfaces. The Hill Descent Control feature available allows slow hill descent without the constant application of the brake pedal.


The 2012 Nissan Frontier is available in a wide range of models and configurations. The Frontier King Cab is offered in four well-equipped models: Frontier S-I4 4x2 (2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier SV-I4 4x2 and (2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder, 5-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); Frontier SV-V6 4x2 or 4x4 (4.0-liter V6, 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmission); and PRO-4X 4x4 (5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual). PRO-4X King Cab models receive a factory-applied spray-on bedliner, bed rail caps, Útili-track™ channel system and four adjustable tie-down cleats.

The 2012 Nissan Frontier Crew Cab is offered in S, SV, SL and PRO-4X models, in regular or Long Bed body styles (SV and SL), each offered wîth a standard 4.0-liter V6 and a choice of 4x4 or 4x2 drivelines. Frontier Crew Cab S, SV models and the Frontier PRO-4X 4x4 are offered wîth either 6-speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions, while Crew Cab SL models are available wîth the 5-speed automatic transmission only.

The PRO-4X (4x4 only) features Bilstein® off-road high-pressure shock absorbers, skid plates on the oil pan and transfer case, an electronic rear differential locker 4-wheel limited-slip (ABLS) and unique machine-finished 16-inch aluminum-alloy off-road wheels wîth large BFGoodrich P265/75R16 Rugged Trail tires. All PRO-4Xs also feature body-colored grille and bumpers, outside mirrors and door handles and fog lamps. Added comfort and convenience features include cruise control, remote keyless entry power windows and door locks and dual power outside mirrors. The PRO-4X interior includes leather-appointed red-stitched shifter knob (M/T only) and §teering wheel, chrome accent ring around the white-faced meter gauges and trip computer.
READ MORE - Nissan Frontier 2012 Specs And Review

Rabu, 01 Februari 2012

Best Pickup Cars 2012 Ram 1500


For the 2012 Ram 1500 ranked 1 out of 10 Full-Size Pickup Truck. This ranking is based on our analysis of 36 published reviews and test drives Ram 1500, and our analysis of reliability and data security. Ram trucks will expand the range of the model by adding a new, top-of-the-line-Ram Laramie Limited. "Ram Trucks largest brand strength is our commitment to listening to customers and to understand what motivates them, 'said Fred Diaz, President and CEO of Ram Truck.

Reviewer best in class trips 2012 Ram 1500's, the choice of storage and cargo comfortably well-made interior, calling it one of the best full-size pickup in the classroom.


Test drivers say the 2012 Ram 1500 drives like a car, that outrageous for a full-size pickup truck. Although it does not mean agile, it's one fine truck-driving around, thanks to sophisticated suspension. Not only top-of-the-line Laramie trim Longhorn is almost the same class as that of a luxury car, but the interior trim lower even 'well-made and comfortable. Reviewers also said that most of the engine choices are more than capable for most tasks.

2012 Ram 1500 is available in 11 trim levels, with a choice of three engines, three cab choices, and three beds, as well as two-and four-wheel drive. For 2012, Ram 1500 gains new paint colors, Mossy Oak Edition models, and more taxis available and the configuration of beds available in the trim Express.

Reviewers praised the Ram 1500 V8 engine, and said that he has the best handling of any full-size pick-ups. Although most test drivers advised the buyer to avoid the 3.7-liter V6 engine standard, overall, the 1500 Ram, handling and towing capacity are both getting positive reviews across the board.

The 2012 Ram 1500 comes standard with a 3.7-liter V6 that makes 215 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque. Not only do reviewers think it’s underpowered, but the V6 gets no better gas mileage than the 5.7-liter Hemi V8, causing test drivers to strongly recommend the engine upgrade. The second engine option is a 4.7-liter V8 that makes 310 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. While that's fairly powerful, its fuel economy is also the same as the larger Hemi V8, which makes 390 horsepower and 407 pound-feet of torque.

The EPA rates all three engines at 14/20 mpg city/highway when paired with two-wheel drive. It hasn’t rated four-wheel drive V6 models yet, but four-wheel drive 4.7-liter models get 14/19 mpg city/highway, while the 5.7-liter Hemi V8 gets 13/19 mpg city/highway when paired with four-wheel drive.

Overall, test drivers say that if you can afford it, you might as well shell out the extra money for the Hemi V8. There’s no penalty in fuel economy in two-wheel drive models, and you get about a third more power than the base engine has. However, both V8 engines perform admirably. Though the Ram 1500 gets a six-speed transmission for the 2012 model year, no reviewers have tested the new transmission yet.

Reviewers agree that the Ram 1500’s handling and ride make it the best-driving pickup in the class. Because the 1500 has a different suspension than those found on all other full-size trucks, it’s smoother and more responsive. The suspension also helps to keep the ride smooth and less bouncy when the bed is empty. Two-wheel drive comes standard on all models, though all have available four-wheel drive.

When properly equipped, the 2012 Ram 1500 can tow up to 10,450 pounds, and can haul a maximum of 1,909 pounds. These numbers are in line with the towing and hauling capacities offered by competitors. The Ram 1500’s towing capability is only 800 pounds behind the class-leading Ford F-150, while beating the Nissan Titan, the weakest in the class, by nearly half a ton.

"Perhaps the only weak point is the base engine, a 215-horsepower V6 that has EPA fuel ratings no better than those of the top-dog engine, the 390-hp 5.7-liter V8. Provided you can swing the extra cost, the big V8's huge jump in performance and work capability without a fuel economy penalty is a no-brainer." edmunds

The 2012 Ram 1500 received acceptable safety ratings from the federal government, and received average-for-the-class safety ratings in crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. The Ram 1500 gets top scores of “Good” in frontal offset and rear crash tests conducted by the IIHS, but receives the second-lowest score of “Marginal” in side impact and roof strength tests.

From the federal government, Crew and Quad Cab models of the 2012 Ram 1500 get five stars out of five in side crash tests. Trucks with two-wheel drive earn four out of five stars in rollover tests, while four-wheel drive Ram 1500s get three out of five stars. Regular cab models haven’t been tested.

The Ram 1500 comes standard with four-wheel anti-lock brakes and front and side-curtain airbags. Trailer sway control and a rear back-up camera are available.
READ MORE - Best Pickup Cars 2012 Ram 1500

Jumat, 20 Januari 2012

Specification New Toyota Corolla 2012

Toyota has always tried to build vehicles that match customer interest and thus they are typically built with popular options and option packages. Not all options / packages are available separately and some may not be available in all areas of the country. If you would prefer a vehicle with no or different options, contact your dealer to check for current availability or the possibility of placing special orders.

The 2012 Toyota Corolla is the best end for a conservative driving experience in the new decade. It has overshadowed all the versions of Corolla that were launched prior to the making of 2012 Corolla. The 2012 Corolla Toyota remains to be a five-passenger with a four-door sedan. The design and body style of the car gives take-no-chance approach to its successive rivals among other car high-end and high-performance car manufacturing companies. The Toyota Corolla 2012 is a visual appeal to the loyal buyers but will essentially carry the same sedan style that was introduced in 2009 as Corolla’s 10th design generation.

The wheelbase of the 2012 Toyota Corolla is 102.4 inch, thereby giving a higher scope for passenger space. It has sporty body spoilers, standard 16-inch alloys and aero add-ons. It also features a 1.8 litre engine with 28/35 mpg and a five-speed manual transmission and 26.34 with a four-speed automatic transmission. Likely to be out in the showrooms by autumn 2011, 2012 Corolla is a much awaited impulsive machine that is worth the investment of a base price of $16,300 with a variety of standard features that can be asked to be disqualified against a certain amount of bargain. Toyota Corolla 2012 can produce 132 horsepower at 6000 rpm. Owing to the fact that Corolla 2012 has a 4-cylinder engine, the mileage is a hundred times better than a lot of its competitors in the market. The 2012 Corolla Toyota also provides the buyers with a second option in terms of engine, which includes the 2.4 litre engine that can produce 158 horsepower at 6000 rpm. This proves the robustness of the vehicle that has overgrown all the other models launched previously by the company.

Expected to launch by mid 2011, 2012 Toyota Corolla stands at a higher range in the catalogue of the most awaited cars of 2012. The corolla 2012 is slightly polished in its outlook and differs very remotely from the models launched in 2011. Although minor changes have been made to the car, the basic shape and size of the vehicle remains the same. Integrated with the front wheel drive system, the car can take the passengers on a swift drive without compromising its fuel efficiency for the sake of achieving a better mileage. All the features expected from a compact vehicle can be easily found in Corolla 2012. The classic style known all around through the line of cars launched by the company are a paradigm of slender and classic dimension design.

The Toyota Corolla 2012 will be available in the market at a starting of $16, 300, which can be easily bargained at several showrooms against a certain deduction of other mobile facilities that come with 2012 Corolla. The prices are also likely to vary depending on the trim model as well. The long history of delivering quality vehicle with the ability to proffer amazing riding ability has attracted the title of highest selling car manufacturer to the host company. The 2012 Toyota Corolla has been exclusively designed to provide for compact driving with excellent performance. (Full specification)
READ MORE - Specification New Toyota Corolla 2012