Sunday, February 22, 2009

Prius Upgrade At the 2009 NAIAS: Lexus HS 250h

The Lexus HS 250h is pimping out the North American International Auto Show this year. Some may view it as a serious upgrade from the Toyota Prius Hybrid but we think it is much more. Coupled with all of the new innovations of the new generation Prius it is refined in and out with true to life Lexus branding meaning you get subtitle features such as a lane departure system and the premium service offered only by your Lexus dealerships. The drag coefficient is at 0.27 (Cd) which is just two points shy of the Toyota Prius’s 0.25 (Cd). They still look for similar gas mileage results reaching to almost 50mpg.

Look for the Lexus HS 250h Hybrid to be at your local Lexus dealer mid 2009.

2009 Acura RDX SH-AWD w/ Technology Package Test Drive

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When you drive the new 2009 Acura RDX SH-AWD crossover you are not only piloting a versatile sport utility but also a high-performing sedan.

2009acurardxheadonactionturnlefthard01fixedsmallThe evolution of the luxury performance SUV crossover took a significant leap forward with the arrival of the Acura RDX turbocharged crossover vehicle. The immediate response of power from Acura’s first-ever turbocharged engine, combined with the breakthrough technology of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), delivers adrenaline pumping performance in an efficient SUV package. It is a unique blend of performance and superior handling for buyers looking for more than just the status quo from a SUV. The RDX was conceived as the ideal vehicle for drivers with active lifestyles who are in search of a compact, sporty and responsive weekday ride, and a weekend getaway vehicle with the versatility to match their active recreational lifestyles.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe: New Images Introduced


The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe is sure to be a car that gets a second look after the demise of the CLK. Some people have been begging for an E-Class coupe while others rather could care less about yet another Mercedes-Benz model added to the already flooded linup.

Of course the new E-Class Coupe will offer virtually the same flavors as the E-Class sedan starting with the E250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY (Diesel) up to the E500 Coupe with a 388 horsepower powerplant. Wonder if they will have an actual AMG version instead of just an “AMG package”?

The E-Class coupe will be introduced at the Geneva Auto Show which Mercedes-Benz plans on being one of the FEW entrants (who didn’t drop out) in this year’s show.

Cavallino Classic Ferrari Track Day in Palm Beach, FL


The Cavallino Classic Ferrari Track Day in Palm Beach, FL is a big hit among gear heads and those with the exquisite taste for Italian. Not Italian food, but a certain raw Italian horse.

I guess you could eat a horse but for some reason I don’t think you will be welcomed in the presence of many. Speaking of the presence of horses, you have to check out the video below of Garage 419’s very own Matt Farah basking in the glow of some of the most beautiful vehicles on this planet. That would be new and classic Ferrari’s at the Cavallino Classic Ferrari Track Day in Palm Beach, FL.

South Florida knows how to showcase exotics on a completely different level such as the recent Naples Ferrari Car Show on 5th Avenue mentioned on Exotics and Luxury’s website.

I will quote Ferris Bueller as Matt did in the video checking out the Ferrari 250 GT California: “It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up.”! Truly Classic

Saab To Leave GM and File for Bankruptcy Protection

At the time of GM’s (General Motors) woes in the suffering economy they are looking to out some of the makes including that of the Swedish connection, Saab. Saab looks to be on their own again and filing for bankruptcy protection. Saab seeks $1 billion to be self-financing while they reorganize. They will still have some support from GM during the reorganization which leaves us with the question: will the newer Saabs be based off of the same (GM) platforms or will they have more deep-rooted Swedish roots

2009 Acura TL SH-AWD Test Drive


Since its first introduction, the Acura TL entry-level luxury performance sedan has set lofty standards in its class for styling, performance, comfort and technology. Available for 2009 in two distinctly different models, TL and TL SH-AWD, the all-new forth generation Acura TL dramatically expands its capabilities and appeal with evocative styling, a choice of two VTEC powertrains, including a new 305hp V6, and TL’s first-ever application of Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD).

Once you get beyond the new front end with the smiley face with an overbite, you’ll appreciate the larger dimensions, optimized suspension, a new Sequential SportShift transmission, plus an available Technology Package featuring a comprehensive list of navigation and communication aids, the all-new 2009 TL offers more appeal than ever before. Along with an available Acura/ELS premium 10-speaker surround sound system and an all-new AcuraLink weather feature, the new TL is by far the most technologically advanced sedan in Acura’s history.

The combination of dramatic new styling, exhilarating performance and an extensive array of electronics mentioned above, ensures that the 2009 TL will appeal to sophisticated, technology-savvy consumers. After my 7-day test drive in a fully-loaded TL with the 305hp engine and the SH-AWD system, I can report that I enjoyed every minute behind the wheel.

A choice of two different all-aluminum VTEC engines enables the new TL to satisfy a wide range of consumers. Standard is a 3.5 liter V6 producing 280hp and 254lb.ft. of torque that sends power to the front wheels via Acura’s sophisticated Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic transmission with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Grade Logic Control. Though powerful, the new engine is also fuel efficient, with EPA fuel economy ratings of 18mpg/city and 26mpg/highway. The engine is targeted to meet California’s tough CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification standards, thanks to features including a Drive-by-Wire throttle system, Computer-Controlled Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) and Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) for the intake valves.

If serious performance is on your mind you’ll choose the TL SH-AWD to make winding roads seem light straight-aways. Its all-new 3.7 liter V6 engine produces 305hp and 273lb.ft. of torque courtesy of greater displacement and additional high-performance features like VVT and VTEC on both the intake and exhaust valves, and special high-flow dual exhaust system. With EPA rating of 17mpg/city and 25mpg/highway, the 3.7 liter is also targeted to meet California’s stringent CARB LEV II ULEV emissions certification. The ‘piece de resistance’ on the TL SH-AWD is the Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system now available on the TL for the first time, and wow, does it handle.

During high-speed cornering, SH-AWD seamlessly distributes more torque to the outside rear wheel to create a ‘yaw moment’ to help the TL turn in more quickly and precisely-while also continuously apportioning drivetrain torque front to rear and left to right.

The result is a remarkably balanced and precise all-wheel-drive performance sedan that excels year-round, not just during inclement weather conditions.

Acura TL’s performance achievements extend to durability, reliability and refinement as well. Both engines feature electronically controlled engine mounts to reduce engine noise, vibration and harshness (NVH); quiet, and efficient Electric Power Steering (EPS) that is tuned perfectly for quick responses to your inputs during spirited driving with great feel for the road at high speeds, and easy turning when driving slow or when parking. A maintainance-free serpentine accessory belt also boosts operating refinement.

The standard transmission on the 2009 TL and TL SH-AWD is a Sequential SportShift 5-speed automatic featuring F1-style steering-wheel mounted paddle shifters for extremely quick shifting up or down, plus Grade Logic Control. combining the convenience of an automatic with the enjoyment of SportShift manual gear selection, the transmission also features an overdrive top gear for maximum fuel efficiency on the highway. In fact, the Acura transmission has the widest gear-ratio spread of any 5-speed transmission in its class, providing a strong launch in lower gears and a relaxed, fuel-efficient ride during highway cruising. The new TL SH-AWD equipped model is one of the smoothest I have driven so far in model year 2009.

Major improvements in structural engineering for the unit-body further define the 2009 TL. The list of substantial changes begins with the relocation of frame rails inside (rather than underneath) the vehicle’s floor pan, resulting in a nearly flat body underside. Further benefits of this design include improved crash safety, a significant reduction in interior noise levels, and reduced aerodynamic drag that helps enhance fuel economy. Another significant is the increased use of high-strength steel, which simultaneously improves the unit-body’s overall strength while helping to reduce weight. For additional weight savings, aluminum is used for the hood, the front suspension subframe and rear suspension knuckles.

Ride quality and passenger comfort benefit from the new TL’s larger exterior dimensions featuring 6in. great exterior length, 1.8in. more overall width and a modest 0.5in. increase in overall height. The larger body size directly contributes to greater interior roominess; it also allows a 1.4in. longer wheelbase to improve ride quality and a significantly wider track, 1.1in. in front, and 1.8in. wider in the rear, helps generate even more tenacious cornering ability. The fully independent suspension features double-wishbones, twin-tube gas charged shocks, coil springs and 1.06in. solid stabilizer bar, and the rear setup features multi-links, twin-tube gas charged shocks, coil springs and a 0.79in. stabilizer bar for a smooth ride over poorly paved surfaces and tremendous grip when attacking curving roads. Further improving ride quality and road-holding are new dual-stage ‘blow-off’ style hydraulic suspension dampers, new hydro-complaint bushings (used to mount the transmission and key suspension components) and a new ‘smart’ engine mount design. On the SH-AWD model, more performance-minded suspension and brake tuning, larger wheels/tires, race-inspired front brake cooling ducts, and specially tuned Electronic Power Steering take the enthusiast’s driving experience to an even higher level.

Quickly and safely slowing the new TL SH-AWD down from speed are larger 4-wheel ventilated disc brakes. Up front are 12.6in. discs clamped with dual-piston calipers, and 13.1in. discs in the rear clamped with single-pistons calipers. Braking control and distance is enhanced with standard ABS, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Brake Assist.

What really has been the most talked about item about the all-new TL is its exterior styling, specifically its front fascia with the smiley face with an overbite. It doesn’t bother me because the performance and interior comfort and amenities cancel out any negatives from the front fascia. Why not a slab of aluminum up front with an angled slit for air to enter the engine? The bottom of the bold fascia contains side air intakes plus intakes to cool the front brakes and told hold the parking and foglamps. The unique and bold looks work for me. Designed by Acura at its Southern California design studio, the TL utilizes an array of styling techniques to express motion-and emotion-even when the TL is parked. From the side the body is long, low and sleek with a flow front end, swept back windshield ‘A’ pillars, body sides defined by strong character lines, sweeping ‘C’ pillars, sloping roof line that gently slides onto the rear trunk lid cover with integral spoiler at the end. The rear features new LED lamp clusters, matching aluminum strip at the bottom of the trunk lid, and four exhaust tips at the bottom that gives the rear the same bold and performance feel as the front. Plentiful use of luxury and performance features add visual appeal while adding to the TL’s vigorous statement-including bright HID projector-beam front headlights, pronounced wheel arches, a standard power moonroof and genuine stainless steel body trim.

Wheels and tires are as expressive as the exterior styling. Standard on the new TL are 17X7in. aluminum wheels with 245/50R17in. all-season Bridgestone Turanza or optional Michelin Pilot tires for confident year-round performance. The TL SH-AWD model comes standard with 18X8in. aluminum wheels with lower-profile 245/45R18in. Michelin Pilot tires for more agile handling, or optional 19X8in. aluminum wheels shod with aggressive 245/40ZR19in. Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 summer tires for the ultimate TL performance experience.

In keeping with its mission as a driver’s car, the 2009 TL interior features a new ‘dual personal’ layout that provides both the driver and front passenger with their own personal space. Thanks to its larger exterior dimensions, the new TL has 1.3in. more rear legroom and 0.5in. of added rear shoulder room compared to last year’s model.

Acura’s commitment to luxury and technology become apparent as soon as you open the driver’s-side door. With sweeping shapes, generous use of premium materials and passionate attention to detail, the TL rewards the discriminating eye. The design and execution of the interior is an artful combination of leather surfaces, accented by metallic or wood-pattern trim. The new center stack looks imposing but is very easy to use after a few minutes.

An impressive array of premium standard features includes a power moonroof, dual-zone adaptive climate control, 10-way adjustable leather-trimmed, driver seat, 8-way adjustable power front passenger seat, my test TL came with premium Milano leather, a beefy, leather wrapped/tilting/telescoping steering wheel with F1-style paddle shifters, heated front seats, keyless access with smart entry and push button start/stop, power windows/door locks, grab handles above each door, full carpeting with TL floor mats, an 8-speaker, 276-watt audio system with a 6-disc CD changer, AM-FM radio with XM satellite radio, Bluetooth, USB port and AUX jack connectivity, HandsFree Link wireless telephone interface, center console with dual cupholders, self-dimming rearview mirrors, self-dimming/heated sideview mirrors, intermittent wipers/washers, electronic cruise control, dual map lamps and dual, lighted vanity mirrors, 2-person memory and aluminum door entry guards.

Optional on both models is a Technology Package that includes the most comprehensive array of advanced electronic features ever offered by Acura. It includes the Acura Navigation System with Voice Recognition and an 8in. full VGA high resolution color display with TV rear park assist, AcuraLink real-time traffic, AcuraLink weather with Doppler-style radar mapping, an Acura/ELS Surround premium audio system with 10-speakers, 440-watt radio, and 2,500 song hard disc drive media storage.

Standard safety systems include front/rear crush zones, steel beams in each door, driver/front passenger front/side airbags, side curtain airbags, vehicle stability control, active front head restraints, 3-point seat belts with front pretensioners/load limiters, tire pressure monitoring system, immobilizer theft deterrent system, LATCH system for child seats.

After my 7-day test drive of the all-new TL with SH-AWD I can report that it is much improved and is now more competitive with the BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, and Lexus IS350. Try it because you’ll like it.

Transformers 2 Footage Released by GM at Chicago Auto Show


General Motors has just released an exclusive video of Transformers 2: Revenge of the Fallen, Directed by Michael Bay, showcasing the Autobots – including the new Chevy Camaro, Volt, Beat, Trax and the Corvette Centennial Concept (Corvette Stingray). This should be a pretty good movie!

I have to admit, the video below looks like a futuristic Commercial for General Motors if you ask me, but who am I do judge. GM, do your thing! Whatever works for you I support you because it is an American brand and we all know we need to support our American brands to get this economy jump started again. Maybe “Jolt” or aka the Chevy Volt in Transformers 2 can help JUMP-START it for us?!?!?

2009 Dodge Challenger SRT8 6-Speed Manual Test Drive


After a successful launch in 2008, Dodge comes back with more goodies that will further warm the heart of any Challenger enthusiast.

A new High Performance Red Clearcoat paint option is now available, and the classic B5 Blue paint option will be available later in the year.

On the inside a red accent stripe with accent stitching is now standard on the Viper styled seatbacks, dual cup-holders now have LED lighting ringing the top of the holders so you don’t spill your drinks while driving at night and a self dimming rearview mirror option gives you more convenience and safety. Bright aluminum faced foot pedals make the interior even more sporty looking and they feel better than the rubber foot pedals found in the Challenger SRT 8 with the five-speed automatic.

Real enthusiast fun can now be had with the new Tremec 6060 six-speed manual transmission with Hill Start Assist. This new Tremec features a dual clutch with dual OD ratios in 5th and 6th gears. 1st and 2nd gears have triple synchronizing cones, while 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th gears have double synchronizing cones. Changing gears has never been smoother. The Tremec 6060 six-speed auto comes with GAGS-Computer Assisted Gear Shifting to increase fuel mileage. When you give light or hard throttle, you go straight into 2nd gear, and when you give medium throttle (20-25mph), you go into 4th gear directly to keep rpm down and increase fuel mileage up to 10% in stop and go traffic.

A remote shifter connects the transmission to the classic ‘pistol grip’ shifter with carbon fiber weave and aluminum top. It fits perfectly in your right hand.

A new standard limited-slip differential has carbon clutch packs built into each side of the differential. When torque is transmitted through the differential, the clutch packs engage to prevent wheel slip. The greater the torque going to the wheels, the greater the ‘locking effect’ sending torque to the side that is needed. The limited-slip housing is a lightweight aluminum die-casting offering improved thermal and weight saving advantages. The final drive ratio is 3:92. A new 32-tooth rear hub and baring assembly is stronger than the 2008 Challenger SRT 8.

For even more fun and excitement you can shut down the ESP stability traction control program to more easily spin the rear wheels and let them slide out to shave the cornering during spirited driving times.

Finally, with the six-speed manual mpg specs are improved to 14mpg/city, 22mpg/highway, up from the 13mpg/city and 18mpg/highway specs for the five-speed automatic.

2010 Ford Taurus SHO: It’s Back FoSHO!



The new 2010 Ford Taurus is not only back but it is back Fo-SHO. That’s right, the Ford Taurus SHO is back and it brings with it a performance history that many of us older automotive aficionados can relate too. Some of the younger crowds have no clue as to the performance statement that the Ford Taurus SHO made back in 1989. A lot of people think the Nissan Maxima was the benchmark for a front –wheel-drive performance sedan but in actuality it had an American contender that did not back down easily.

Introduced at this year’s Chicago Auto Show is the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO (Super High Output) 4-door performance legend that is here to run with the big dogs.

The SHO was such as hit in its hay-day that one of our good friends, Jeremy Prine, also associated with Warehouse motors in Jacksonville, FL, introduced one of the fastest Ford Taurus SHO’s around with a 13 second run time in the quarter mile turbo charged SHO.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

4-cylinder 2009 Toyota Highlander



Sporting a more efficient six-speed gearbox and a frugal 187hp, 186lb-ft (250Nm) four-cylinder engine, the 2009 Toyota Highlander crossover SUV has received an official ULEVII EPA rating and features impressive 27mpg on the highway, 20mpg in the city and 22mpg combined fuel economy.

Audi R8

Audi of America has just introduced a set of changes for its existing models for the model year 2009. Although the upcoming Audi A4 sedan and Avant models, as well as Audi Q7 3.0 TDI and Audi Q5 SUVs are still out of the price list, there are some candies for the rest of the pack, including the fire-breathing Audi R8.

2009 VW Scirocco

Introducing new entry-level Sciroccos to the UK market, Volkswagen has also offered new -less powerful, but more fuel efficient- 1.4 TSI and a 2.0 TDI engines. Although being definitely slower than the 2009 VW Scirocco GT, the new cars are also much cheaper and consume significantly less fuel in the combined cycle.

2007 Nissan 350Z GT-S

A group of Nissan's engineers have revealed their pet project: a tuned 'Saturday Special' version of the popular Nissan 350Z sport coupe. Although the car sports significant increase in power output and substantial chassis modifications, it still remains quite a comfortable daily work horse that you can use to bring yourself from home to office and back.

Peugeot 308 CC


Although initially supposed to be revealed during the Frankfurt motor show next year, the upcoming Peugeot 308 CC coupe convertible received such an enormous wave of enthusiasm among European drivers that the company apparently changed its mind and decided to officially present the car the this year's Paris Motor Show in September.

2009 Kia Borrego midsize SUV

With its rugged body-on-frame architecture, a set of powerful engines and impressive 114-inch wheelbase, 192.1 inches of overall length and 75.4 inches of overall width, the 2009 Kia Borrego is clearly aiming to take the place of the outgoing 2005 Toyota Land Cruiser SUV.

Vauxhall VXR8

British sports cars enthusiasts are now able to order the latest Australian street-legal tire-burner. The new Vauxhall VXR8 super-sedan comes with a 6.0-liter V8 engine, developing mind-blowing 450 horsepower and 550 Nm and making the car sprint from zero to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds. And all this power is available to you for £34,995 only. That's quite a value for money.

Mazda RX-8

Available to Japanese customers since March, the new Mazda RX-8 Hydrogen RE will make its European debut on 22 August at the ONS2006 energy exhibition and conference to be held in Stavanger, Norway.Japanese Mazda teamed with Prodrive to build a limited edition of its popular Mazda RX-8 performance coupe.

2009 Alfa Romeo 8C

For the first time since the car's introduction, tAlthough all cars allotted for the U.S. customers said to be already sold out, there is a good chance that there will be some additional deliveries before Alfa Romeo makes its real return to North America.he 2009 Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione is now officially available on the North American market through one of Maserati's ADs.Equipped with a 450hp 4.7-liter V8 engine, which is mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox and a self-blocking differential unit, the 8C Competizione costs about $230,000 and is claimed to be the most expensive Alfa Romeo ever. It takes only four seconds to accelerate from zero to 60mph and can achieve a top speed of more than 180mph.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Alfa Romeo autoshow 78th International Geneva Motor Show

Few supercars this century have captured the public’s imagination like the awesome Alfa 8C Competizione. That is, until now.

Just as the delivery schedule is being finalised on the 41 models destined for the UK, Alfa Romeo will unveil its stunning convertible version, the exquisite Alfa 8C Spider at next month’s Geneva Motor Show.


Visually arresting from every angle, the Alfa 8C Spider looks every inch a supercar, and under the bonnet the same 4.7 litre V8 as in the 8C coupe produces 450bhp, which is channelled through a sophisticated 6-speed F1-style paddle shift gearbox to the rear wheels.

Inside the carbon fibre cockpit, a dashboard-mounted button effortlessly transforms the perfectly cosseted cabin of the Alfa 8C Spider into a sublime open top GT cruiser. Constructed from two layers of fabric, the roof creates a perfectly weatherproof, acoustically comfortable passenger environment.

For added individuality, the roof can also be personalised in various colours to suit the body colour of the vehicle.

Like its coupe stablemate, production of the Alfa 8C Spider will be limited to 500 units, and just like its coupe counterpart it is expected to sell out within weeks of being announced.


Mitsubishi Mitsubishi Concept 78th International Geneva Motor Show concept cars


Ahead of its official global unveiling on 4th March at the Geneva Motor Show, Mitsubishi Motors now reveals further images of the Prototype-S – born from the same gene pool as the original 2005 Concept-Sportback.

Jet Fighter Aggression
The prototype remains close to its original inspiration, and closely previews the forthcoming Lancer Sportback.

At the front, it uses a variation of Lancer’s trademark “Jet Fighter” grille featuring a full matt black finish, mesh inserts and chrome surround. Other distinguishing features include a Lancer Evolution

X style bonnet, Prototype-S specific headlamps and 19” five-spoke alloy wheels.

At the rear, Prototype-S follows the same design theme explored with Concept-Sportback with a very fast lift gate finished by Sportback’s trademark colour-keyed roof spoiler. Its elongated rear combination lamps widen the stance of the car as they wrap around the rear wings.

Interior Flair
Inside, Prototype-S displays a very continental flair with its twin-hood meters, the black suede finish of the upper dashboard & door panels and the light brown-coloured leather selected for its upholstery, in a mix of plain, perforated and weaved finish.

Volkswagen


Wolfsburg, Geneva, March 2008. It is back: 34 years after the world premiere of the first Scirocco at the Geneva Motor Show, Volkswagen is now presenting the Scirocco of the new era in the same venue. Now as before, the coupé embodies the fascinating strategy of putting a sports car on wheels that is fit for use every day of the year at absolutely affordable prices. That is precisely what the new Scirocco does: high-class technologies merge with low costs of ownership, dynamic driving characteristics merge with a high level of comfort, and a surprisingly spacious interior merges with an uncompromisingly sporty design.

Volkswagen Chief Prof. Dr. Martin Winterkorn: “In the Scirocco we will be bringing the kind of sports car into the showroom that people dream of. Yet it is a dream that an exceptionally large number of car drivers will be able to afford – despite all of the high-end technologies we have implemented.” The Scirocco will already be entering the market across Europe in late summer, and other countries will follow over the course of the next year.

Avant garde design of the Scirocco
A calling card of the ambitious global concept is the new sports car’s avant-garde design. The fact being that the lines of the Scirocco study presented in August 2006 have been transferred to the production car nearly unchanged. This includes the long wagon/coupĂ© roof whose form here is unique, and which pays tribute to the C-pillar design of the first Scirocco, the car’s athletic side profile, its distinctive engine hood and the entire rear end with its extremely broad shoulder sections. Only the design of the radiator grille has been changed for a more stylish and timeless solution.

With a length of 4.26 meters, the Scirocco is on par with the Golf. However, it is built significantly lower to the ground (1.40 meter) and is nearly as wide as the Passat (1.81 meter). Four adults can be seated with plenty of space inside. Once they are all aboard, the Scirocco provides 292 liters of cargo capacity; when the two seatbacks of the rear individual sport seats are folded down, capacity increases to a considerable 755 liters. This contemporary Scirocco demonstrates unfettered everyday utility, and it can be clearly recommended as a sports car for every day of the year.

Avant-garde technology of the Scirocco
Providing for ample power on the Scirocco – which comes with ESP and sport chassis as standard equipment – are four TDI and TSI engines, all of them charged and therefore just
as torque-strong as they are economical and low in emissions. The three TSIs (gasoline direct-injection) output 90 kW / 122 PS, 118 kW / 160 PS and 147 kW / 200 PS. The Scirocco’s common rail engine (TDI) develops a power of 103 kW / 140 PS.

Further high-tech elements of the Scirocco: a 7-speed DSG and an “adaptive chassis control system”. Meanwhile, a large panorama vent sunroof – extending from the A pillars to the B pillars – provides for plenty of light in the interior. At the press of a button the transparent panorama roof is raised up to 39 millimeters. When the sun is too intense, a sunshade may be moved into place. But that is seldom likely to be necessary, since the glass of the panorama vent roof reflects 99 percent of UV radiation, 97 percent of infrared radiation (heat) and 80 percent of visible light.

The new Scirocco is one of the most attractive sports cars in the world when it comes to pricing. Nonetheless, the standard equipment package is super. Always there, for example, are 17-inch alloy wheels, height adjustable driver and front passenger seats and steering wheel, leather parking brake grip, sport seats, split folding rear seats, power windows, air conditioning, ESP, braking assistant, six airbags, speed-dependent power steering, and of course a sport chassis

2009 Audi R8














The Audi R8 racing car has won five times at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, and finished first in an amazing 62 of 79 international endurance races. Audi's first super sports car for the street takes the R8 name, challenging the Ferrari F430 and others, although, at a price that's at least $70,000 less, it might be no contest.

The Audi R8 features an exotic aluminum space frame, and a mid-mounted compact V8 engine making 420 horsepower. The most stunning feature is the clear Lexan cover over the engine, with LED lighting to show it off. The R8's skin was designed for efficient aerodynamics, by the same team of engineers who designed the R8 racing car; an underbody diffuser creates downforce to keep the R8 on the ground at its top speed of 187 miles per hour. It will accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds.

Despite this performance capability, any little old lady could drive the R8 around on the street. It's that tame. She could probably even crawl in and out herself, and once she got in the cockpit, she would be comfortable. The R8 has every creature comfort of a luxury car, including excellent legroom, and many options, from a navigation system to a 12-speaker, 465-watt sound system. There's decent luggage space under the hood in front, and a lot of space behind the seats.

Two transmissions are offered, a six-speed manual and high-tech six-speed R-Tronic, which is a manual transmission with no clutch pedal, that can be shifted either with paddle shifters, a lever, or by automatic mode. This transmission works best when the car is being driven near its maximum; at casual speeds, it's inconsistent and jerky.

The brakes are race-worthy, and a bit sensitive at slow speeds. The shock absorbers adjust to the road conditions, and the ride can be set in two modes, Comfort and Sport; in either mode it's firm but never harsh. The cornering, with inherent ideal balance and quattro all-wheel drive, is in a class by itself.

What makes the R8 exceptional is that it does it all: incredible high performance without making any compromises for civility and comfort.