Cars

Kia�s New Concept Car: The Koup

In my opinion, Kia has produced another showstopper with the new Kia Koup. The name itself might be unimaginative, but vehicle is not. So far, the Koup is the most streamlined vehicle made by the company that I�ve ever seen. Well, I�ve only seen limited models. As fitting as its name, the Koup is a 2-door coupe that is based on the subcompact model, Rio. This stylish coupe runs on a twin-turbo direct-injection 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine. This engine allows the coupe to produce 290 bhp and 289 lb-ft of torque.

]]> Impressive exterior makes the Kia Koup really attractive. Even looking at its profile, you�ll see the well-defined lines at the side of the vehicle. The 19-inch alloy wheels give a very sporty look at whatever angle. And at frontal view, the first things to catch your eyes are the LED headlights made with carbon fiber and black chrome housing. Once you are seated inside you�ll see an unobstructed view of the sky with its all-glass roof. Even as a 2-dor coupe, the Kia Koup can accommodate up to four persons.

This concept car from Kia was first revealed to the public at the New York International Auto Show.

Porsche 911 Targa 4 and 4S Uncovered

Another amazing creation from Porsche! The new 911 Targa 4 and 4S are the latest updates to the Porsche 911 line-up. These two new models differ in the engines that they are equipped with. What you will find in the Targa 4 is a 3.6-liter flat-6 engine capable of revving 345 horsepower, while in the Targa 4S you�ll find a 3.8-liter engine that can produce 385 horsepower. Both of these models come with optional 7-speed double-clutch transmission as well as standard 7-speed automatic and manual transmissions. These new 2009 models have electronically controlled all-wheel-drive system and standard rear-locking differential.

]]> Aside from the performance feature updates, the new 911 Targa 4 and 4S sport a two-piece glass roof as pi�ce de r�sistance with new electric sunblind for protection. This two-piece glass roof can open in two ways either through the sliding front or the tailgate. Modified Porsche Communication Management 3.0 system is present in the car as well as touch-screen controls for easier manipulation of the audio system.

Only the preliminaries about the next generation Porsche 911 Targa 4 and 4S have been released so far. They have yet to make their public debut at the 2008 Paris Auto Show in October.

Superb 2009 BMW 7 Series Unveiled!

BMW gives us a glimpse of the new 2009 BMW 7 Series. And I must say this fifth generation of the 7 Series is outstanding. If you want speed, style, and modern technology rolled in one vehicle, the 2009 BMW 7 Series fits the bill. There are two models that will be shipped to the U.S. next year � the 750i and the 750iL. The latter has longer wheelbase, but for their internals, both have similar specifications. The 2009 BMW 7 Series runs on a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. This engine type is capable of generating 400 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque.

To make this luxury sedan�s performance superb, BMW incorporated the EfficientDynamics program with the Brake Energy Regeneration that is used for charging the battery through engine overrun. Once you drive this car, you�d hardly feel the bumps on the road because the suspension contains double wishbones with electro-hydraulic anti-roll bars. Those are put in place of the MacPherson strut arrangement.

]]> Remember when I mentioned the 2009 BMW 7 Series is a high-tech vehicle? It�s true. You can have full internet access in the car through the installed iDrive system. It also features a Side View camera system, Parking Distance Control, Lane Change warning system, and Head-up Display.

The 2009 BMW 7 Series is definitely a superb vehicle to have. Though starting price is kind of steep - $76,800.

Soon to Come Solar-Powered Toyota Prius

The Prius is one of Toyota�s hybrid vehicle models. Next year, Toyota Motor Corp is planning to redesign it. The highlight of the said redesign is the addition of solar panels on every Toyota Prius that will be produced next year. So, aside from being operated by means of electricity and gas, the new Toyota Prius will also be powered by the sun. The solar panels will be the one to supply power for the two to five kilowatts that�s consumed by the air conditioning system. Production of this solar-powered vehicle is expected to commence in spring next year. Toyota will get its panels from Kyocera Corp.

]]> There�s still some question on how this new addition to the Prius will be received. But with the constantly rising gasoline prices, I would think any other alternative will be welcome. You�ll remember that the Toyota Prius was the first mass-produced hybrid car. When released in 1997, it sold over 1 million units around the globe. So, I�m predicting that the redesigned and third-generation Prius will be received pretty well.

U-connect Makes Chrysler Internet Hot Spot Cars

Chrysler is giving a new and exciting reason to love its cars. Pretty soon Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep vehicles will have the U-connect web technology installed in them. Using either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, passengers can already surf the web while on board the vehicle.
By being able to connect to the internet, passengers can find entertainment and information they need. The range for the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is approximately 50 feet in all directions from the vehicle.

]]> Almost all devices that can be used to connect to the internet are compatible with U-connect web technology. As you can see there�s no need to even get out of the vehicle if you want to access your MySpace, FaceBook, YouTube and many other sites.

U-connect will be available by 2009 in the mentioned vehicle brands. It will be powered by Autonet Mobile. But since U-connect is ultimately an internet service, fees still apply. The router module�s price is $449 and dealer installation is around $35-50. Monthly fee provided by Autonet Mobile is $29 per month.

Cheers for Chrysler! If you are thinking of buying a new car in 2009 don�t forget to check out the Chrysler line.

By Raissa

Check Out the Sporty BMW 135i Cabriolet

We all know that BMW is one of the esteemed automobile makers in the market these days. So, if you want to own a vehicle of this brand, here�s the 2008 BMW 135i. This is a rear-wheel drive Cabriolet that is powered by a twin-turbo, 300-hp, 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. This engine type is paired with the six-speed manual transmission or six-speed automatic transmission that comes with a steering wheel paddle shifting. Does it appeal to you? Well, I sure hope it does!

]]> In terms of the appearance, the 2008 BMW 135i is on the small side because of its shorter wheelbase. However, it comes with larger wheels and tires that work excellently when cornering. When pulled down, the retractable soft-top makes the vehicle roomier in terms of trunk space. It is also outfitted with almost all the conveniences you desire while traveling. BMW 135i has power sunroof, 10-speaker audio system, automatic climate control, wood trim, auxiliary input jack, and multi-way adjustable front seats. Six airbags, anti-lock brakes, adaptive xenon headlights, and adaptive brake lights are also present to keep you safe at all times.

Inflatable Electric Cars: Cars of the Future?

Hybrid cars are very welcome addition to the fleet of cars cruising on the road. But how would it be if they get added with Inflatable Cars? Yes, inflatable cars that are made of air! XP Vehicles is the company that is venturing into this untried territory. At the present time, there�s still no prototype of this design, so we can just imagine what this inflatable car will look like. Basically, instead of steel, most of the materials to be used are similar to those employed by NASA for some of the space rovers. These materials are very durable that you won�t even experience fender-bender incidents. Well, at least that is what they said. And it will be powered by an electrically-charged engine.

]]> If or when these cars come through, you can just order them online. Estimated cost of such vehicle is around $10,000. XP Vehicles will deliver the goods to you in two huge boxes. You can assemble it by yourself, maybe with the help of a manual. Assembly will take approximately two hours.

So, do you think inflatable cars will pass as the new car of the future? If ever, would you buy one?

Water is the New Fuel

In the midst of the rising prices of oils and the increased awareness of the effects of pollution from cars on the environment a Japanese company has come up with an exciting new solution to our biggest problem. It�s a water powered car. Now it may sound a bit fantastic �but the Japanese have always been good with technology- but this car can run on one liter of water from any source and will use this liter to run for one hour at 80 km/h. The car is designed to eliminate the hydrogen ions in the water and use them to power the engine.

]]> An outstanding invention and seeing as which its all just water it�s a very clean source of energy. This is what the world needs at this point in time! If these designers succeed in convincing car manufacturers to use this invention in all their cars then we should see an outstanding cut in emissions and a drop in the price of oil! It seems like a win, win situation to me. Obviously the downside is that the car only travels for an hour at a time, but technology could advance to improve this model and make it even more efficient.

By Karim

Honda Unleash Hydro-Electric Car

Many automobile makers are now taking their hand in producing environmentally friendly vehicles, one that would not contribute anymore to pollution problem. Honda Motors Inc. is one of the companies that are taking in active part in giving solutions to pollution problems by producing the new FCX Clarity, the vehicle that runs on hydrogen and electricity. Just imagine that, no more gas! Because it runs on hydrogen, there�s no harmful emission as well. And according to Honda, this creation is also more twice as energy efficient as gas-electric hybrids and three times more efficient than vehicles that run on gasoline. Engineers were able to develop this through the new design of the fuel cell stack they came up with.

]]> Even with its �green� system, FCX Clarity�s performance is not compromised. It is comfortable to ride in and smooth and easy to handle. Though it can only run up to 100 miles per hour.

This hydro-electric FCX Clarity just rolled off the Japanese plant on Monday, yet people are already lined-up to give it a try. You�ll even know some of them. Among these people are Laura Harris, Ron Yerxa, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jim Salomon, and Jon Spallino. Honda is leasing only several units for this year, but expect more within the next three years.

BMW Innovates with GINA Light Visionary Model

BMW unveils a new vehicle that will definitely catch your interest. The new Light Visionary Model is a concept car that can only be described as radical. BMW developed this car using the GINA principle or Geometry and Functions In �N� Adaptions. Except for the 8-cylinder powertrain package, everything else about the Visionary Model is all new. You�ll especially be awed by its physical appearance. I think this is the exact match if you are looking for a batman vehicle. Yes, it is really that sleek. What makes it so are the four large pieces of flexible material that stretch and contract at a flick of a switch. For its maximum function, the material is waterproof and temperature-resistant.

]]> Another surprising thing about this vehicle is the hood that can open up in the middle instead of the typical style. It also sports a rear wing that looks like the one installed in the 6-Series coupe. When you look at the front portion, you can�t help but notice the headlights that look like slanted eyes staring at you. These headlights can be exposed or concealed by means of the flexible �skin� that envelopes the vehicle. The wingdoors also add a sportier look to the BMW GINA Light Visionary Model.

The Light Visionary Model is an evidence of BMW�s efforts in finding innovative design solutions. I must say, this design is really commendable!

Watch Video of the BMW GINA

Bentley Upgrades Continental Flying Spur Lineup!

In 2005 Bentley released the first edition of its Continental Flying Spur lineup of sedans. That was three years ago, so they thought of upgrading the line. Yup, the 2009 edition of Bentley�s Continental Flying Spur is full of splendid changes. Bentley did not leave any spot untouched. In the exterior, the engineers designed a brand new grille, chrome outlines headlights and taillights. Another noticeable thing is the larger air intake at the front portion of the vehicle. Passenger comfort is ensured with the soundproof side and rear windows as well as wheel liners. And it has a 1,100 Naim sound system for the ultimate audio entertainment on the road!

]]> Of course improvements were not only skin deep. The suspension system is also given an upgrade. Better springs and shocks are installed together with stabilizer bars. When you look at the new Flying Spur�s profile, you can�t help but be impressed with the 19-inch Pirelli tires.

The new Flying Spur obtains its powerful surge from the twin-turbo W12 engine that can reach a speed of 322 kph max at 553 lb-ft of torque. With this kind of speed it will really seem like you�re flying in this baby! You can also just relax and let the vehicle take control through the Adaptive Cruise Control System. This feature is quite ingenious because it automatically adjusts acceleration and braking depending on the traffic situation. With this System installed, driving the new Bentley Continental Flying Spur would not be a hardship at all!

Be One with the Stars in Driving a Toyota Prius

Toyota is one of the major players when it comes to hybrid cars. In fact, some of its hybrid models are well-preferred by environmentalist celebrities. Among them is one of my favorite actresses, Julia Roberts. A Toyota Prius costs around $22, 305, but I�m sure Julia is not after the cost or the savings she can get from driving a gas/electric hybrid vehicle. For her it�s more about helping save the environment with less emission.

]]> Aside from being a hybrid, what other characteristics make Prius a great car to have? As you can see, it has a great and streamlined form. It features spoke-alloy wheels, multi-reflector halogen headlamps, and color-keyed front and rear bumpers. With the chrome-type finish grille no one can mistake your Toyota Prius for anything else. It is also of a modest size that can seat five persons and still have enough space left for luggage. Advanced airbag system and anti-lock brake system are only some samples of how the Prius keeps you safe on the road.

And you know what? Toyota Prius is not only a great choice for women like Julia Roberts. This is also the preferred vehicle of hot Hollywood actors, like Leonardo DiCaprio.

Sporty Ibiza SportCoupe Unveiled!

If you want to experience some Spanish spirit on the road you can check out the new Ibiza SportCoupe. This is the newest version released by Volkswagen�s Spanish subsidiary SEAT. From the previous 5-door model, SEAT comes up with a three-door supermini. Even at first glance you will notice the aggressive stance of the vehicle. On the outside, some may think that the front portion is similar to the five-door model. The big difference can be seen in the profile, in the small details of the window sill and the fender. Appearance-wise, the latest Ibiza SportCoupe is an impressive machine.

Get the Jolt from the Chevy Volt!

Hybrid cars and electric cars could be the answer to your needs if you are looking for ways to save on gas expenses. These cars are manufactured in such a way that they don�t make much use of oil anymore. The biggest automobile maker, General Motors, is exploring alternatives in the electric cars area. In fact, it has given the go signal for the mass development of its electric car the Chevrolet Volt! GM gave the affirmative that by 2010 the market can already experience driving one superb electric car. So far, only a prototype has been given a test drive.

]]> Unlike other electric vehicles already out in the market, the Chevy Volt will primarily make use of lithium-ion battery. But to support this, GM will also incorporate onboard power extending sources like gas and E85 ethanol. Those who do not travel more than 40 miles daily will find this very convenient. Not only will they be able to save on gas, they will also be able to help the environment with zero gas usage and zero emissions.

And in terms of looks, the Chevy Volt is not bad to look at based on the pictures taken during its test drive. Man or lady will find this electric vehicle a very practical investment.

Nissan Rogue: The Tough-Looking CUV

The word rogue has a negative connotation, and when this term is applied to a vehicle, it won�t inspire confidence. However, it is a different matter with the new 2008 Nissan Rogue. Its name is an anti-thesis to what it can really do for you on the road. This Crossover Utility Vehicle (CUV) made its debut at the 2007 Detroit Motor Show and now it�s finally out for the market�s consumption. When you see the vehicle, you�ll be truly amazed by the stylishly modern and sporty make-up, living up to its name � Rogue.

When you come into the interior you�ll experience the coziness of the leather power-heated seats. It has a good sound system that can serve as your entertainment while cruising. The instrument panel is well-placed and can be viewed easily even in the dark because of its reddish-orange illumination. Even at first glance, you�ll see that the Rogue�s interior is really designed for comfort.

]]> The Nissan Rogue is available in two-trims � the S and the SL. An all-wheel drive system is present in both trims. A 170 hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is fitted on both models as well. This vehicle generates power using the continuously variable transmission (CVT) and gets control from the ABS fitted on the four wheels.