Honda Jazz

Overall:- Japan based Honda Motor Co. had launched the all new premium hatchback Honda Jazz in the Indian market in June, 2009. Being a luxurious small car, the Honda Jazz model comes equipped with a range of luxurious features as available in many C-segment luxury sedans. The car has been developed at the platform of company's popular sedan Honda City. The Jazz hatchback comes powered by a.2L, 1198cc, 4-cylinder engine that is capable of delivering a peak power of 90PS. The company had launched a new variant of Jazz in the Indian market in August 2010. The new model is named as Jazz X and has been offered with a price tag of Rs. 7.53 lakh (ex-showroom, Delhi).

The newly added features of Honda Jazz X include alloy wheels, fog lamps, a new grille, driver seat height adjuster, a much needed USB port for the stereo system and blue-black interiors. The Jazz series is available in the price bracket of Rs 7,57,500 to Rs 8,02,340 (ex-showroom Delhi), where it competes with the likes of Skoda Fabia, Hyundai i20 and Chevrolet Optra SRV. Despite being a fully loaded performer, the Jazz hatchback hasn't been able to do the magic for Honda in India, as it's excessively high price tag has worked against its competitiveness among the price conscious Indian buyers.

Engine & Specifications:- The Honda Jazz model comes equipped with 1.2L, 1198cc, 4-cylinder, i-VTEC petrol engine that comes mated with a highly sophisticated 5-speed manual gearbox. The powerful 1.2L power-plant of the Honda Jazz delivers a peak power of 90bhp at 6200rpm along with a maximum torque of 110Nm at 4800rpm. The EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection) technology has been incorporated with the engine of this car that ensures better fuel efficiency and performance. The exterior dimensions of the car are as follows - height- 1,535mm; length- 3,900mm and width- 1,695mm. The wheelbase of the car is 2500mm and boot space is 384 liters.

Performance:- Packed with an array of performance boosting features, the new Jazz offers a segment leading performance on Indian roads. It offers a mileage of 13kmpl in city areas and 16kmpl on highway. Moreover, the engine of Jazz model comes blessed with i-VTEC (Variable Valve Timing with Electronic Lift Control) system along with EFI (Electronic Fuel Injection), that offer high engine performance with better fuel efficiency.

Exterior, Interior & Safety:- The new generation Honda Jazz comes blessed with a fascinating urban car look. The features that offer the Jazz an eye-arresting road presence include aggressive front grille with newly styled fog lamps, expressive head lamps, alloy wheels, body colored side molding, ellipsoidal glass area and tail gate spoiler. The interior of the car has been made admirable with the help of a range of luxury, comfort and convenience features including Rear AC vents, Adjustable Driver Seat, Tilt-able Steering with Audio Controls, Power Door Lock, Power Windows (Front & Rear both), and Power Rear View Mirror. The major safety features of the car include Dual Front SRS Airbags, ABS with EBD, new G-CON (G Force Control Technology) that enhances handling, ECU Immobilizer, Driver Seat Belt Reminder, Day/Night Side Rear View Mirror, Rear Wiper, High Mount Stop Lamp and Active Headrests.

Honda Jazz is developed on the Honda City platform, get details to these and the upcoming Honda cars in India.

Read more »

Ferrari Enzo Extremely Fast With V12 Engine

Ferrari Enzo Extremely Fast With V12 Engine

This car is known as "Enzo", the name was taken from the Ferrari founder's name, first announced at the 2002 at Paris Motor Show. The Enzo produced very limited to keep this car still exclusive, only produced as much as 400 units while it predecessor only produced 349 cars, and since its launch, all units have been sold out even though the price reach $1 million.

Following it Predecessor
Equipped with 12-cylinder (V12) mid-engine that make Enzo fastest in the street, also featured with several F1-technology, the design is based on it predecessor Ferrari F40, both are using the same engine, The F50 was introduced in 1995 to celebrate the company's 50th anniversary.

Engine Specifications
Enzo is sports car designed with machine on center with 43.9/56.1 (front / rear) weight distribution. This machine is known use at Ferrari's F140 65, namely V12 (A V12 engine is a "V" engine with 12 cylinders mounted on the crankcase in two banks of six cylinders) with 4 valves per cylinder, double overhead cams and variable valve timing. Using a Bosch Motronic ME7 fuel injection is used and naturally aspirated engines. It replaces the 5998 cc (366 in) and produces 660 PS (485 kW, 651 hp) at 7800 rpm and 657 N m (485 pounds · ft) at 5500 rpm redline is 8000 rpm.

Chassis and it performance
Enzo uses semi-automatic transmission (also known as the F1 gearbox) using paddles to control automatic shifting and clutch mechanism, with LED lights on the steering wheel that can convey a message to the driver when to change gear. gearbox has a shift time of just 150 milliseconds.

With a configuration such that Enzo can accelerate to 60 mph (97 km / h) 3:14 (3.1) seconds and can reach 100 mph (160 km / h) in just 6.6 seconds ¼ mile (~ 400 m) time. Is 11.0 at 136 mph (219 km / h) and top speed has been recorded to as high as 363 kilometers per hour (226 mph).

Read more »

2008 Audi A5

2008 Audi A5

The all new 2008 Audi A5, four-seat coupe joins an impressive line other high-performing vehicles from Audi and is available in either a 6 speed manual transmission, or the optional 6 speed Tiptronic automatic transmission.

The personification of a luxury sport coupe, the highly stylish A5 features both an elegant interior and exterior design, a number of safety features, as well as crisp handling and a strong overall performance.

Price Range

The price ranges for the 2008 Audi A5 is as follows:

Coupe MSRP price - $39,900, Invoice price - $37,108

Coupe with Tiptronic MSRP price - $41,200, Invoice price - $38,315

New Features and Options for 2008

Some of the new features that Audi has implemented into their 2008 A5 model, which is available in only one trim level, are electromechanical parking brakes, and climate controls with three separate zones. The front suspension system has been redesigned, as well as a longer wheelbase, and an overhaul of the engine, transmission, and steering rack, which all result in improved handling, more precision steering, and better weight distribution.

The 2008 Audi A5 also comes with a basic 48 month or 50,000 mile warranty, as well as 48 months or 50,000 on the powertrain, and a rust warranty of 144 months or unlimited mileage.

Body Style and Options

Described as both muscular yet curvy, the 2008 Audi A5 is unrivaled in its visual appeal and impeccable style. Automatic headlights, fog lights, and daytime running lights are standard on both the A5 coupe and the coupe with Tiptronic, while high intensity discharge headlights are an available option for either.

A power trunk lid, rear spoiler, 18 inch alloy wheels, and a front air dam are also standard features of the Audi A5, as well as interval and rain sensing windshield wipers, and a rear window defogger.

Some optional exterior features of the A5 include heated mirrors, both interior and exterior day or night automatic electrochromic mirrors, and 19 inch alloy wheels.

Either a power or manual sunroof/moonroof are available for the 2008 Audi A5, and it is available in several exterior colors including: Aruba Blue Pearl, Avus Silver Pearl, Brilliant Black, Brilliant Red, Deep Seal Blue Pearl, Ibis White, Ice Silver Metallic, Meteor Gray Pearl, Misano Red Pearl, Quartz Gray Metallic, or Sahara Silver Metallic.

Interior Design and Features

Besides air conditioning and separate driver/front passenger climate controls, the A5 model also features a CD player with subwoofer speakers, cruise control, tilt steering, a leather steering wheel, a trip computer, and a tire inflation/pressure monitor.

Some of the attractive features of the 2008 Audi A5's all leather seats that are finely stitched include multi-adjustable power controls for both the driver and passengers, and front power lumbar support.

Extra seating options for the A5 include heated and power memory front seats, as well as some other optional interior choices such as a navigational system that features an iPod interface, and a premium 505 watt Bang & Olufsen audio system.

The "S" line package is also available for the Audi A5 and includes 19 inch alloy wheels and a sport suspension system, front and rear fascias, sport seats with side bolsters, aluminum interior accents, and for the Tiptronic-equipped coupes, paddle shifters.

The available colors for the leather interior of the A5 include Black, Cinnamon Brown, Light Gray, or Linen Beige.

Performance and Power

Due to the longer wheelbase, the A5 offers more responsive and precise steering action, and the car's Quattro all wheel drive (AWD) system is unparalleled and shared with only one other, the BMW 335xi. The 2008 Audi A5 coupe with or without Tiptronic features a standard 3.2L V6 engine, 265 horsepower (hp) @ 6500 revolutions per minute (RPM), and the torque rating is 243 @ 3250 RPM.

The direct-injection technology of the 3.2L V6 engine allows the manual transmission of the Audi A5 to run from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a mere 5.8 seconds, with the automatic transmission taking a tenth of a second longer.

Safety Features

Some of the safety features that are standard on both the A5 coupe and the coupe with Tiptronic include driver's side, front side, passenger, and side head curtain airbags, along with an anti-trap device located within the trunk, and an anti-theft system.

Power door locks and power windows are also standard, as well as electronic brake assistance and ABS brakes, Audi's well-known Quattro AWD system, and a vehicle stability control system. Another useful safety feature of the 2008 Audi A5 is the optional electronic parking aid in the form of a rearview camera.

Search and post new cars, used cars, luxury cars, prestige cars, concept cars [http://www.vehicleride.com/concept.php], sports cars [http://www.vehicleride.com/reviews.php], hydro cars, SUVs, CUVs, convertibles, trucks, pickups, vans, minivans, coupes, sedans and read car reviews at VehicleRide.com.

Read more »

Lotus Elise

What is an Exotic Car?

Have you ever pulled up to a stop light, minding your own business, and the most incredible car pulls up quickly stopping next to you? Then, after staring at the car and then being caught by the driver, you can't help but wonder what is that? You've never seen anything like it an yet you think, is that the car I just read about in my favorite car magazine?

So, do you find yourself wondering, exactly what is an exotic car? To start with, as with any explanation, it helps to begin with the official definition of "Exotic".

-adjective

1. of foreign origin or character; not native; introduced from abroad, but not fully naturalized or acclimatized: exotic foods; exotic plants.

2. strikingly unusual or strange in effect or appearance: an exotic hairstyle.

3. of a uniquely new or experimental nature: exotic weapons.

4. of, pertaining to, or involving stripteasing: the exotic clubs where strippers are featured.
-noun

5. something that is exotic: The flower show included several tropical exotics with showy blooms.

6. an exotic dancer; stripper.

In this case, we'll go with number 2, simply because the others don't fit when referencing an automobile. We'll avoid the initial, number 1 definition as not all exotic cars are foreign in the US and the last term has nothing to do with cars, except that most exotic cars are considered sexy. That's all that will be mentioned on THAT subject.

There are a variety of "laymen" definitions for what an exotic car may be described. Some think that it's a car that costs hundreds of thousands of dollars. Not necessarily true. A humbly priced Lotus Elise is considered exotic, yet is priced around $50K. Others view an exotic car as one that has doors that spring forward or are gulled like wings. There are a number of exotics that have "normal" opening doors, so that's not necessarily an accurate approach. For the most uninitiated, they may surmise that an exotic is only of Italian or German decent and manufacture. Again, not necessarily true. There have been numerous British exotics, America has it's share of specialty exotic manufactures and the Netherlands has yet it's own form of exotic car builder.

Probably the best most common thought about what an exotic car is, can be boiled down to one simple statement. Do you see one every day? Or, simply put, would you see one on your bumper to bumper traffic laden commute? If the answer is no, then it's probably close to being exotic. If you live near a Ferrari or Lamborghini dealer, hob knob in Beverly Hills or have a home near Miami, then it may not be an fair assessment. However, for the 99% of us that live in average city locations, typically seeing an exotic every day is not normal. There are some that have only seen such cars at car shows and or on the rare occasion on a major freeway connecting two cities. Since there are numerous web sites with "Sighting" posting sections, it's probably a pretty accurate definition on the "rarity" of an exotic, making this a pretty accurate layman's definition of "exotic car".

With that in mind, an exotic car can also be considered a daily driver, but rarely seen. Many exotic car owners like to drive their cars as much as possible, but keep it to a minimum due to mileage restrictions they put on themselves so as to keep the resale value high. In most major cities, there are usually a higher number of exotic car owners than one may perceive. Most exotic cars spend time in garages, show rooms and/or collections. However, there are still a larger number of owners that prefer to take their car out on special occasions and just drive it.

There are many additional areas that can make up an exotic car definition besides just rarity. Items such as extremely different shape and size are common elements of an exotic car. Special composites that make up the frame or body are also areas that set an exotic car apart from their daily commuter brethren. Powerful engines usually installed in the rear are one of the more commonly thought about elements. Shifting mechanisms, starter buttons and flat bottom steering wheels are a few other less unusual, but common amongst exotics.

Shape. Many exotics have an extremely uncommon shape. They typically are very "Striking" or notice able both sitting at a light, gas pump or being driven down the road. Most exotics have taken on shapes that rival many show cars or concept cars, but that have been put into production as a fully operational drive able car. Shapes like wedges and hour glass are common visions.

Size. A number of exotics are actually small by comparison to the standard sedan or coupe. Almost all exotics are a 2 seater, with the occasional version that may have a "token" back seat. Some of the larger exotics, such as the Bentley are getting large enough in size to actually accommodate rear passengers. However, many of the truly exotics are made for two and commonly are less than 3 feet tall. Egress can be challenging at times, which makes for another case for definition of an exotic and it's non-commonality. The majority of exotics are sports related with small sizes and big powerful engines.

Composites. Many if not all exotics are made up of space age or light weight materials slowly finding their way into the larger auto makers. Most of todays aluminum's and carbon fibers were first made popular on one exotic brand or another. Light material or new composites that make up the engine compartment are very common amongst exotics.

Engines and weight. A majority of exotics are made up of small size in stature and length, usually outfitted with large powerful engines. The power to weight ratio make it a lethal if not down right illegal combination, thus making it even more exotic.

All in all, exotics are not your run of the mill daily driver. Rather, they are something striking and unusual, yet beautiful and very very eye catching. Most if not all are rarely seen and thus make it the primary definition for the majority of our population. Regardless of your gender, it's almost impossible to not stare at the unusual, strikingly different exotic car sitting next to you at that red light. Go ahead and stare. It may be a while before you see another exotic car!

Shane Cooper runs a car related business Altitude Dream Cars which offers access to unique vehicles, such as the Lotus Elise, H2 Hummer & Mercedes CLS500. Truly inspiring and unique vehicles for that night on the town, wedding, important business meeting or just a great drive in the mountains.

Read more »

Hummer H3 Alpha

Hummer H3 Alpha in Detail

General Motors Corp.'s HUMMER division extends their product lineup of exclusive Alpha models with the addition of the popular H3 mid size SUV on the product range. The HUMMER H3 Alpha is set to roll out in markets all around the world beginning this summer. But before that, HUMMER will first display the H3 Alpha at the upcoming 2007 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) early this April. The H3 Alpha offers customers a powerful power plant, unique interior and exterior features, and bunch of exclusive packages in and out.

"H3 Alpha is, simply, the ultimate HUMMER H3. It delivers all of H3's renowned off-road capability, but with enhanced performance that is suited to a variety of lifestyles." said Martin Walsh, HUMMER General Manager.

The H3 Alpha retains the bold, boxy, and rugged body styling of H3 models, highlighted by the pronounced seven-slot grille, large wheels, front bumper, aggressive fender flares, and wide side view mirrors similar to Jeep Mirror that is installed on the Jeep Grand Cherokee, one of the H3's competitor in the SUV segment. A Chrome Appearance package is available for H3 Alpha, which include 16-inch chrome wheels, 4.10 rear axle ratio, prominent Alpha tailgate badge, horn pad badge, and embroidered front headrests with the "Alpha" badge.

On the inside, the H3 Alpha offers and elegant interior along with a host of new standard safety features including child safety locks for the rear doors and head curtain side air bags. The H3 Alpha retains the other safety features of the H3 base model including StabiliTrak electronic stability control system; Four-wheel antilock brakes with traction control; Dual front air bags with Passenger Sensing System; Tire pressure monitoring system; Vehicle-to-vehicle crash compatibility; LATCH ((Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren) rear child seat anchors; and the Rear Vision system that uses a camera to allow the driver to have a view on the objects behind the vehicle.

At the heart of the HUMMER H3 Alpha is a powerful 5.3-liter V8 engine that pumps out a maximum of 295 horsepower (224 kW) and produces 317 lb.-ft. (438 Nm) amount of peak torque. The engine belongs to GM's legendary small-block V8, noted for its powerful performance while providing fuel efficiency and lower exhaust emissions.

A Hydra-Matic 4L60 electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission completes the powertrain package for the H3 Alpha. About the performance, the H3 Alpha H3 Alpha to can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 8 seconds, and offers a maximum towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.

For more about your Jeep Mirror needs like , visit your trusted online source.

Lisa Ziegler is a 29-year old native of Waldport, Oregon and is currently working as a senior research analyst in a top Automotive Research Consultancy firm.

Read more »

Alfa Romeo 8c Competizione

Alfa Romeo Car Show & Vehicle History

One of the all time European classic cars is the Alfa Romeo. This Italian made car has a long and rich history. Darracq Italiana is where the story begins. This company, founded in 1907 by an Italian businessman from Milan, Cavaliere Ugo Stella, teamed up with the French car company belonging to Alexandre Darracq. The first few cars were produced in Naples but soon after the partnership collapsed and Ugo Stella moved the company to a small neighborhood in Milan; and the new company was now called ALFA. The acronym ALFA stands for anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili (meaning Lombard Automobile Factory).

The first non Darracq cars were produced in 1920s and had an impressive 24 HP. The designer, Giuseppe Merosi, would later go on and design new ALFA cars with more powerful engines and a stylish exterior. It is from these humble beginnings that we have today's Alfa Romeo. In 1911, ALFA ventured into the business of car racing and the rest is history.

Over the years, Alfa Romeo established itself as a racing car, winning numerous driving competitions all over Europe. Besides winning the Le Mans many times, the car has also recorded victories at the formulae one World championship.

In the 60s, Alfa Romeo became part of European culture. It was a popular car to have such as the 2600 sprint GT.

Throughout this time period, engineers at ALFA started to modify and redesign the engines. The GTA was a powerful two engine car to come out during this re-engineering process and won several prestigious car races in Europe.

From the 1930s up to the 70s, Alfa Romeo went through myriad difficulties. Two successive World Wars and the financial gloom of the 70s led to dire financial difficulties. In 1986, FIAT took over ALFA and created a new group known as Alfa Lancia Spa.

In the 90s, Alfa Romeo started to produce cars in other parts of Italy. Among the new cars of the 90s were the new spider and GTV. Both cars are no longer produced and are considered vintage.

In 1995, Alfa Romeo discontinued exporting its cars to the USA chiefly due to competition from American cars. In 2007, this decision was reversed and Alfa started exporting cars back to America. Last years, the 8C Competizone made its debut in the USA. Alfa is now thinking of adding the Brera and Spider to the American market. Today, Alfa Romeos are only sold via Maserati dealers in the USA. There are presently discussions with the Italian giants and Chrysler to utilize the closed factories to make some models of Alfa Romeo in the USA.

At the moment, the global downturn in the economy has put a hold on the full return of the new generation of Alfa cars to the USA.

With a solid history of success and innovation, ALFA Romeo is bound to go back to the top. With superb style, speed, power and the color red, what else can one want from AR?

Learn more about Alfa Romeo at [http://www.eurorennen.com] and sign up for the Alfa Romeo Car Show.

Read more »