Latest Articles by AnthonyF

2008 Lamborghini Gallardo Looses Weight for Better Aerodynamics

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Lamborghini Gallardo is a sports car built by Lamborghini. It was introduced in 2004 as a new entry in Lamborghini lineup of racers. It was intended to rival the Ferrari F430. The name was derived from the Spanish breed of fighting bull named Gallardo. This means gallant in Spanish and striking in from an Italian language.

Most Lamborghini models are sold in a limited number. The Gallardo is the most produced model as of this moment with 5,000 units built in the first three years. It is a cheaper version of the famous and more powerful Lamborghini Murcielago

It’s been made in five variants. The Spyder model of the Gallardo was unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in January 2006. In late 2005, the Gallardo SE (Special Edition) was introduced. The Gallardo Nera (Special Edition) was introduced at Paris Motor Show. Only 185 units of the Gallardo Nera will be produced and 60 are for the American market. A special version of the Gallardo, dubbed the Superleggera was launched at the 2007 Geneva Auto Show. And the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 which was revealed at the 2008 Geneva Auto Show.

As of March 2008, the Gallardo is the only model to use the Lamborghini V10 engine. It uses 520 horsepower, 5.0 liter V-10 engine. The V-10 is linked to a 6 speed manual gearbox, or optional 6-speed automatic, and permanent 4 wheel drive with viscous traction. According to Lamborghini, its acceleration can reach up to 100 kilometers per hour in only 3.95 seconds and it has a top speed of 196 mph.

The Gallardo leaves the impression of being one of the sexiest sports cars on the market. The car certainly looks fantastic with its auto parts and can turn heads almost off their necks. This two-seater car measures 4.34 meters in length, 1.90 meters in width and a mere 1.16 meters in height. It weighs in dry at 1410 kilograms. Its lightweight is due to the extensive use of Superman-hard but lightweight carbon fiber. Most exterior components have been replaced with lighter-weight polycarbonate which then reduces the original with 126 pounds.

Modern car-building techniques have made the car surprisingly comfortable and luxurious. This car carries a warm welcome with its handsome interior furnished in rich leather. The position of the seats is very low but it provides head and leg room enough for a mid-six-footer.

Standard features include automatic climate control, power windows and door locks, power-adjustable leather seating, a CD player with two auxiliary audio inputs, an adjustable leather-wrapped steering wheel, and electrically folding outside mirrors.

Overall, reviewers describe the 2008 Lamborghini Gallardo as a truly a world-class sports car with a very attractive image and a mind-blowing speed.

--
Anthony Fontanelle is a 35-year-old automotive buff who grew up in the Windy City. He does freelance work for an automotive magazine when he is not busy customizing cars in his shop.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com

2008 Land Rover LR2: A Better Version “Freelander”

Wed, 18 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Land Rover Freelander is a compact crossover SUV made by Land Rover, a subsidiary of the Tata Motors. It is now on its second generation known as the LR2 in areas such as the North America and Middle East. The first generation Freelander was launched in 1997 but it suffered from minor unreliability issues. So a stylish new Land Rover LR2 debuts for 2007 as the second generation Freelander. It was released in 2008, also to comply with the market which is in need of a compact SUV.

The 2008 LR2 is a 4-door, 5 passenger luxury sport-utility, available in two trims, the SE and the HSE. Both trims are equipped with a standard 3.2 liter, I6, 230 horsepower engine that achieves 16 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway. A 6 speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. Reviewers describe its performance as a dynamic SUV, with a very smooth handling, and great power which makes it very capable on and off road.

It terms of its auto parts and exterior looks it comes with an impressive ancestry but looks better than the model it replaces. It is similar to the boxy appearance of the company's more expensive models with softer and more rounded edges. The LR2 looks remarkably muscular, and there is some fine detailing including the fish-gill side vents, kaleidoscopic headlight glass, and square and upright stance. Underneath the unibody LR2 is a fully independent strut-type suspension with larger disc brakes at each corner.

The LR2 has seats for five in two rows. Its interior is very nicely done that it comes near to the point when we can say that it is luxurious. It comes standard with leather upholstery, a massive twin-element sunroof, Alpine nine-speaker audio system with six discs CD changer, six-way power driver's seat, dual-zone climate control, and a push-button starter. Also standard is a unique electrically controlled Terrain Response which allows you to choose ride height, throttle response, transmission setting, and traction control.

LR2 has an exceptional safety package. It includes is a unique electrically controlled Terrain Response which allows you to choose ride height, throttle response, transmission setting, and traction control. In crash protection features, it comes with seven airbags, including side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers and head airbags all around. There are also expanded front crumple zones and a safety cage of high strength steel around the passengers.

2008 Jeep Commander: The Sleeker Cherokee

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Jeep Commander is a mid-sized SUV introduced in 2006. Its first public appearance was commenced at the New York Auto Show in 2005 and debuted as a sports utility vehicle in 2006. It came out as a 7 passenger SUV with just about 2 inches longer than the Grand Cherokee.

Upgrades have been made in the engine and overall features for the 2008 Jeep Commander. The 2008 Commander is a 4-door, up to 7-passenger sport-utility, available in 6 trims, ranging from the Sport 4X2 to the Overland 4X4. “The Sport 4X2 is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 210-horsepower engine that achieves 14-mpg in the city and 19-mpg on the highway. The Overland 4X4 is equipped with a standard 5.7-liter, V8, 330-horsepower engine that achieves 13-mpg in the city and 17-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.” With this specification, one evident quality of the Jeep Commander is its capability to drive off the road.

The new Jeep Commander holds a big similarity with the original Jeep Cherokee, but has been made more modern through its auto body parts, sleeker looks and attractive finish. The Commander is undoubtedly a Jeep due to its apparent use of Jeep design cues. Such Jeep exclusive features include the seven-slot grille, trapezoidal wheel openings, and squared-off lines with flat surfaces. It’s been added with allen-head bolts along the wheel openings and a decorative headlamp module to create a more technical look.

Its exterior standard features include fender flares and door handles that match the body color for a smoother line, a flip-up glass window in the back lift-gate, and heated power mirrors that fold against the body of the car.

The interior may not show-off excessive luxury features, but it is totally roomy and well-designed. The seats for seven are nicely shaped and padded. Standard interior features include power front windows, heated power mirrors, eight-way power driver's seat, air conditioning, cruise control, AM/FM/CD six-speaker audio and tire pressure monitoring warning.

According to usnews.rankingsandreviews.com 2008 Jeep Commander does fairly well in federal government crash tests “Safety features on the 2008 Jeep Commander include the expected LATCH child-seat restraint system, multi-stage airbags for the front seat, and side curtain airbags for all seats, and both traction control and stability control as well as an accident response system that turns off the fuel pump, lights the interior of the vehicle, and unlocks all the doors, if the airbags deploy.”

2008 Kia Amanti: Redesigned and Packed-up with Luxury Style

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Kia Amanti also known as the Kia Opirus, is a full size sedan produced by Kia Motors. It is Kia’s flagship sedan. It was launched in April 2003, as Kia’s entry for the big demand of large sedans. After its launch, it has aged with little or no major changes until the model year 2007. In 2007 the Kia Amanti received a mixture of improvements, including interior and exterior styling revisions.

The 2008 Amanti is a carryover from 2007. It is a 4 door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in one trim only, the Base. “The Amanti is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, 264 horsepower engine that achieves 17 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.” With this engine specification it apparently promises an easy ride and adequate power in any situation.

Most reviewers see the 2008 Kia Amanti exterior as inspired by luxury sedans. An auto body parts has been completely restyled for a better look and more fashionable design. The grille, headlamps and driving lamps, with concomitant changes to the hood and fenders were the one’s that’s been restyled to achieve this modern and luxurious look. The Amanti also features an updated hood and trunk as well as front and rear bumpers. Its wheels are made up of 17 inch tires on a 7 beam machined alloy wheels.

The Amanti’s interior is a high selling point for the car. It’s roomy, comfortable, and luxurious looking. It accommodates better than most models in the same category. The seats are supportive and comfortable with cloth seats that doesn’t need a good stretch after a long days drive. There’s also abundant headroom and legroom even for a 6 feet tall adult.

Standard interior features include, a dual-zone automatic climate control, one-touch auto-up/down power windows, leather wrapped steering wheel, audio and cruise control remote, auto dimming rearview mirror and a wireless transponder used to open garages, disarm security systems and adjust lighting. It promises a good quality entertainment system through an AM / FM / cassette / CD with eight speakers and a sound system. The overall interior is accented with metallic and wood materials allover.

“Standard safety features for the 2008 Kia Amanti include four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brakeforce distribution, heated outside mirrors and fog lights for visibility, and a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts the driver to underinflated tires.”

AUTODELTA Unveils Alfa 159 J4 2.2 C Models

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Autodelta is delighted to announce that it will reveal the bespoke Alfa 159 J4 2.2 C after 18 months of rigorous improvement of the 2.2 JTS direct injection engine at a special occasion at the Yacht Harbour of Driessen, Amsterdam this coming June 20-21, 2008.

The Auto Channel reported that the Autodelta J4 2.2 C which denotes “Compressore,” will develop into the third member of the elite bespoke J-series models. It will join the Brera J5 3.2 C and Spider J6 3.2 C in the array when it is commercialized starting July 1st. Its primary theme carries on a long tradition of employing forced orientation principles by Autodelta to expand nothing less than the very definitive expression of high performance motoring like the other two recognized sports cars with its splendid auto body parts.

On the other hand, the 159 J4 2.2 C will be launched with a supercharged edition of the 2.2 JTS direct injection petrol engine while the Brera J5 and Spider J6 models with their outstanding auto body parts have a deep focus on advancing Alfa Romeo’s 3.2 V6 engine. The addition of a Rotrex C30-74 supercharger and a specifically-enhanced system boosts the 2.2-litre unit’s power from the standard 185bhp up to 245 bhp, a boost of 60 bhp. For the time being peak torque is elevated from 230Nm to 290Nm, providing the sports saloon an additional 60Nm of torque.

“Both are high compression engines, which mean that a very thorough development programme is called for,” says Autodelta’s Managing Director Jano Djelalian, “but one of the biggest advantages is that a high performance driving experience can be coupled to excellent fuel efficiency, something that is becoming more important with ever rising oil prices.”

Actually, Autodelta’s technical brilliance is pretty basically unconcealed: no other company has been able to effectively supercharge and commercialize Alfa Romeo’s direct-injection JTS engines.

“Alfa Romeo created a superbly stylish sports car with the Brera, and one that we were able to take forward in a number of areas,” says Jano, “It moved us forward as we welcomed a whole new type of customer coming through our doors; for the first time we also had one model that was in demand right across the world, and as well as gearing up to cope with it here, we had to take our global network of agents one step further.”

“The J5 arrived just as we celebrated our 20th anniversary,” continues Jano, “and it has superbly launched us into our third decade.”

MADD & Representative Staskunas Supports Alcohol Ignition Interlock Legislation

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) united with state Rep. Tony Staskunas (D-West Allis) last Thursday to publicize a vital piece of anti-drunk driving legislation. The bill which is ponsored by Rep. Staskunas, calls for convicted drunk drivers to put in an alcohol ignition interlock on their vehicles as a terms of probation. This verified technology and one of the most highly-required auto parts would be necessary for every person with an earlier drunk driving record and for anybody convicted of driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .16 or above.

"Drunk driving is a serious threat to the safety and well-being of everyone in Wisconsin - a threat that this legislation requiring interlocks for convicted drunk drivers will significantly reduce. By stopping these drivers from re-committing their crimes, we'll be saving lives and preventing countless injuries," says Representative Staskunas.

According to The Auto Channel, 305 citizens died in drunk-driving crashes - 42 percent of all traffic fatalities - and over 5,600 people were severely injured in alcohol-related crashes two years ago. Similarly moderating statistics specify the average BAC of drunk drivers in Wisconsin is a shocking .17; an astounding record which is more than twice the legal limit of .08.

"Wisconsin has the regrettable distinction of being ranked as the worst state in the country when it comes to the number of drunk driving fatalities. We need to continue treating this serious crime as a fully preventable one - the technology and resources to save lives in Wisconsin exist and need to be put to full use," says Kari Kinnard, executive director of MADD Wisconsin.

The alcohol ignition interlock is among the latest innovative car parts today. It is an advanced breath test device connected to a car's ignition system. While installed on the vehicle, its effectiveness is up to 90 percent efficient in avoiding reiterate offenses by convicted drunk drivers. Drivers must first blow into the device when he or she desires to start his or her vehicle. However, the vehicle will not start if the driver has alcohol in his or her system. Present Wisconsin law does not necessitate interlocks for convicted drunk drivers, but adjudicators have the choice to entail interlocks upon a second OWI offense.

Research reveals that those convicted of drunk driving for the first time have driven drunk over 87 times earlier than their first arrest. Studies also estimate that 50 to 75 percent of drunk drivers whose licenses are suspended continue to drive their vehicles.

Ford of Europe Sales Continue To Nurture In tough Environment

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

Ford of Europe's big business thrust sustained all the way through the month of May regardless of the tough economic setting. Year-to-date sales in Ford of Europe’s 51 markets have mounted by 18,400, to 828,300 vehicles; an enlargement of 2.3 percent measured up with the same phase in 2007.

"Our sales improvement in the first five months of the year reflects the growing appeal of our exciting and stylish range of vehicles. And with our new models making an increasing impact, we are confident that we will continue to progress and sell more vehicles this year than we did in 2007, despite the challenging conditions in many markets," says Ingvar Sviggum, vice president, Marketing, Sales & Service, Ford of Europe.

According to the news, Ford completed the month of May with a market share of 8.7 percent in the conventional Euro 19 countries, untouched from the past year regardless of lower sales of 132,200 units, which was reduced from 139,100 units a year ago. Turkey and the 30 Ford European Direct Markets are merged when sales in Russia. Ford of Europe's sales in May reached 165,500 units, somewhat down from 165,900. Ford of Europe sold 683,100 vehicles in the Euro 19 markets, for a market share of 8.7 percent. Sales in Russia, Turkey and Ford's European Direct Markets added an extra 145,200 units, captivating the total to 828,300 units. Ford's accomplishment in Russia carries on with sales augmenting by over 36.6 percent to 18,600 vehicles last month.

Once again, the latest Focus with its great auto parts was Ford of Europe's hot-selling model in May, selling 35,100 units all throughout the Euro 19 markets, while the trailing Fiesta sold 25,300 units. The Fiesta was France’ and in Italy’s best-selling imported car. May sales of the latest Mondeo with the splendid auto parts in the Euro 19 markets further boosted to 15,300 units.

Ford sustained its overall vehicle market control on a year-to-date basis In the UK, Spain and Turkey. Ford was market leader in the UK and Turkey in the month of May as well.

"We are seeing lower consumer confidence in some of our established markets because of the continued rise in fuel prices and overall economic uncertainty, but that is countered by buoyant economies in other regions, notably in Russia. In Russia, industry sales are up 362,000 units year-to-date, and Ford is in a very strong position to grow sales thanks to our modern St. Petersburg plant, where we will increase capacity from September on," added Sviggum.

Safe Kids Program Hits Remarkable Milestone

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

It was reported by the Auto Channel today that Safe Kids Buckle Up, the child passenger safety program of Safe Kids USA sponsored by General Motors and Chevrolet, has arrived at a most significant landmark that no one has ever did: the Safe Kids Program had its one million child safety seats ensured for correct installation.

"A Safe Kids child seat inspection provides hands-on training for parents and caregivers. At about 30 minutes per inspection, the milestone we are celebrating today represents more than 500,000 volunteer hours -- or 57 years of one person working around the clock. Our thousands of volunteers are the backbone of Safe Kids Buckle Up and they work tirelessly to help make sure the children who come to a checkup event are safer when they leave than when they arrived," says Mitch Stoller, president and CEO of Safe Kids Worldwide.

Today, the one millionth seat will be tested out along with some safety car parts at an event at the Los Angeles Sports Arena. The occasion is open to everyone and 150 kids from the Los Angeles Urban League Head Start and State Preschool are listed to have their seats examined. Furthermore, almost 200 additional car seat checkup programs are being apprehended during the weekend at Chevrolet and other GM dealerships and at district locations across the U.S. territory in celebration of the millionth seat milestone.

"Keeping all children safer in vehicles is one of our top priorities," said Nicole R. Nason, administrator for the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. "Programs like Safe Kids Buckle Up have helped to change the culture of car seat safety in the United States and have been essential in protecting our most precious passengers."

Major development to this safety features and other car parts have been completed since 1997 when the program tested its first car seat. Figures from NHTSA revealed a 25 percent plunge in vehicle crash deaths for children under the age of 5 from 1997 to 2006.

"Safe Kids USA and General Motors have been leaders in child occupant protection. As we have said before, the Safe Kids Buckle Up program has given families across the country the peace of mind that comes with knowing how to properly secure their children in a vehicle. Checking a million seats through the Safe Kids Buckle Up program has likely resulted in hundreds of lives being saved because of the proper use of car seats and booster seats," says Mark V. Rosenker, chairman of the National Transportation Safety Board.

2008 Isuzu Ascender Production About to End

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Isuzu Ascender is a mid size SUV from Isuzu. It was first launched in 2003 as a seven passenger SUV. It replaced the Japanese built mid size Isuzu Trooper. As for the year 2007 model the Isuzu Ascender is offered as a SUV that can seat five passengers. It replaced the Isuzu Rodeo and the Axiom.

The 2008 Ascender is a 4 door, 5 passenger sport utility, available in two trims, the S 2WD and the S 4WD. It is a carryover from 2007. “Both trims are equipped with a standard 4.2 liter, I6, 285 horsepower engine that achieves 14 mpg in the city and 20 mpg on the highway. A 4 speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.” Maximum towing capacity is 5800 lb. It offers a nice ride and impressive V6 engine power. It comes standard with rear-wheel drive, but four-wheel drive is an option.

Though it’s not very distinctive, reviewers say that it is a good looking one. It has a very handsome front-end design which is enhanced by attractive badges, lights, grille, and bumpers. It features machined-finish alloy wheels, 17 inch alloy wheels, over fenders and body side moldings. I quote from Auto Media “though officially midsize, this is one big vehicle.”

Reviewers praise this vehicle for its very spacious interior and amazing auto body parts. It boasts abundant interior volume for both passengers and cargo. Even six-footers will enjoy ample head room, knee room, and foot space. It comes standard with height-adjustable front headrests, a second row folding bench seat, power windows and door locks, a tilt steering column, air conditioning with CFC-free refrigerant, manual dual-zone climate control with rear switch, and an AM/FM stereo and CD player with six speakers.

It gets good scores in most federal government crash tests. According to usnews.rankingsandreviews.com, “In frontal crash tests, the 2008 Ascender gets four out of five stars for passenger protection, but only three stars for driver protection. It fares much better in side crash tests, earning top scores of five stars for both front- and rear-seat protection.”

Standard safety features include a front and rear ventilated disc brakes 4 wheel ABS, traction control, front side mounted airbags, anti theft alarm system engine immobilizer, dusk sensing headlamps, front fog lights, tire-pressure monitoring system, daytime running lights, an electronic stability system and anti-lock brakes.

The Ascender ends production after the 2009 model year as part of Isuzu's withdrawal from the United States market.

2008 Jaguar S-Type: The ‘60s Look Remade

Sat, 14 Jun 2008 00:00:00 -0500

The Jaguar S-Type is a mid-size luxury car by the British marquee Jaguar. It made its debut in 2000 as a revival to the 1963 S-Type model. The second generation Jaguar S Type made its debut in 2003. It later on had a minor facelift in year 2004 and was continued up to model year 2007.

The 2008 S-Type is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, or luxury sports sedan, available in 3 trims, ranging from the 3.0 to the R. It is a carryover from model year 2007. “The 3.0 is equipped with a standard 3.0-liter, V6, 235-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. The R is equipped with a standard 4.2-liter, V8, 400-horsepower, supercharged engine that achieves 15-mpg in the city and 22-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.” The S-Type V8 packs great performance which deserves a lot of praise from auto reviews. With more gears to choose from, it offers excellent drivability around town.

There is not much cosmetic change between the 2008 Jaguar S Type and last year's version; it still keeps up with the classic feel, reviving the style of the ‘60s sedan. This distinct styling distinguishes itself from other luxury sedans. All S-Types now feature the S-Type R bumper and mesh grille. The round tail lamps look more distinctive. The sides have been redesigned for a more powerful, forward-pushing stance.

The S-Type can seat four adults comfortably. The upgrade includes a leather steering wheel and shifter knob. Most report that the S-Type has adequate cargo room when compared to other cars in its class.

“Standard interior features include air conditioning with climate control, external temperature, floor mats, adjustable driver seat with height and lumbar adjustment, lockable glove compartment, a ten-speaker sound system, wood and leather electrically adjustable multi-function steering wheel with tilt adjustment and an additional long list of provided features.”

According usnews.rankingsandreviews.com, the 2008 model hasn't yet been crash tested, but it has mostly the same auto body parts features as the year 2007 model. “The 2007 S-Type earned 4 out of 5 stars for front seat protection and 5 out of 5 stars for back seat protection in side impact crashes.”

Safety features of the 2008 Jaguar S-Type include the maker's proprietary adaptive restraint system, as well as side-impact and side-curtain airbags, anti-lock brakes, and a stability control system, all standard.