Honda Motor Company officially launched the Shuttle Fit or Jazz Wagon

Honda Motor Company officially launched the Shuttle Fit or Jazz Wagon in Japan. Remarkably, although the new launch, the Shuttle Fit has been ordered more than 7,000 units. MPV Honda Accord is offered with two options. The first version, Fit Shuttle 15x (FWD) carrying the 1.5-liter i-VTEC. This variant is claimed Honda's very fuel efficient, with a ratio of 20 km per liter. This model is priced at 1.61 million yen.

The second version, the Fit Hybrid Shuttle engined 1.3-liter i-VTEC plus IMA (Integrated Motor Assist) with fuel consumption of 30 km per liter gasoline and sold 1.81 million yen.
Honda also claimed the Shuttle as the Fit compact car that offers a spacious interior and cargo space, comfort, comfortable as the Honda Accord, even though its base is a Honda Fit or Jazz in Indonesia.
Space Shuttle cargo Fit 590 liters while the FWD FWD 546 liters. Shuttle Fit Hybrid offers 517 liters of luggage space. Both have the same cabin space.

2011 Aston Martin V12 Zagato

Featuring a new handcrafted aluminium body, the Aston Martin V12 Zagato delivers a beautiful and muscular design not possible using pre-formed panel techniques. Using the influences and skill of nearly 100 years of heritage in the craft, every aluminium panel was formed using an English wheel and traditionally crafted body bucks. Each front wing alone comprises seven separate pieces of aluminium, combined and then hand finished to give one flowing form. Another iconic Zagato design cue is the double bubble roof created in this case from five separate pieces illustrating further the intensity of craftsmanship involved in the construction of the V12 Zagato.

Designed for the focused driver, the V12 Zagato has been honed with pure driving enjoyment in mind. The V12 Zagato combines Aston Martin’s most dynamic bonded aluminium platform with the power of the 6.0-litre V12 engine producing 510 bhp (380 kW / 517 PS), and 570 Nm (420 lb ft) of torque.

The V12 Vantage which forms the basis of the V12 Zagato has been proven on the race track as early as 2009 with a class win in its debut race at the 24 hour race at Nürburgring whilst being close to production standard with only essential safety modifications, reduced weight and re-tuned suspension but no additional aerodynamic enhancements.

In 2011 the car has gone on to form the basis of the new Aston Martin GT3 race car unveiled last month. Aston Martin V12 Zagato specification includes a bonded aluminium platform modified with a bespoke steel roll cage, front and rear double wishbone suspension with fully adjustable Multimatic DSSV Dampers and a 120ltr endurance racing fuel tank.

BMW 6 Series Coupe 2012 - Sporty Sedan

European manufacturers, BMW plans to release a new variant of the sixth generation of the series, the BMW 6 Series Coupe which is also their icons in the spring in Germany. BMW 6 Series Coupe will come with two different engines as optional consumers. Model 650i Coupe 8 cylinder engine has 407 HP degan power, and models that meet the 640i Coupe 6-cylinder engine and a power of 320 HP. Both of these models has increased staff from 40 to 46 hp from the previous model and as a result of these changes bring results that are quite impressive, to take time from point 0 to 60 meters only be reached by 4.9 seconds. While the maximum speed reached 250 km/h with gasoline consumption diangka 9.6 km / liter.

Each model is equipped with 8-speed transmission Automatic Sports, and EfficientDynamics technology that aims to economize fuel so that users do not often visit the gas station. Other equipment that is the Auto Start-Stop, Eco Pro, Electric Power Steering, Dynamic Drive Control or Drive Damper Control.

Besides BMW 6 Series Coupe also comes with LED Headlights that can adapt to low-high beam with cornering function. For the foglamps and Rearlights also features LEDs. Other features of the BMW 6 Series Coupe is BMW's ConnectedDrive is the Head-Up Display technology with High-Definition, Full-Color-Spectrum Graphics, Rear-View Camera, Surround View, Speed ​​Limit Info, BMW Night Vision, and the Parking Assistant.

2011 Ford F150 Truck review

Summary

Appearing unchanged from the previous year, the 2011 Ford F-150 comes in many shapes with 11 trim levels, 3 cabin styles and 3 bed sizes. The changes to the F-150 pickup truck goes into a massive upgrade in 2011 with all-new engines. A 360 horsepower, 5-liter V-8 engine comes standard on FX2, FX4, Lariat, King Ranch and Platinum trim models of the 2011 Ford F-150. The superior 6.2 liter V-8 engine produces 411 horsepower backed up with 434 pounds-feet of torque. V-6 power reintroduced to the Ford F-150 in 2011. Immediately available with a 3.7 liter V-6 generating 291 horsepower, a 3.5 liter V-6 engine constructed with EcoBoost technology will roll out early 2011 with 365 horsepower and 420 pounds-feet of torque. All engines are now routed through a 6-speed automatic transmission becoming the first and only full-size pickup truck in the United States sporting 6 gears. Apart from the powertrain, the 2011 F-150 includes standard technology such as air conditioning, Easy Fuel Gas Filler and a two-ton jack. The off-road warrior F-150 SVT Raptor now comes standard with the 6.2 liter V-8.

Benefits of Driving a 2011 Ford F150 Truck
Ford claims class-leading fuel economy, as well as best-in-class towing and horsepower for both its base V6 engine as well as both of the available V8s. Ford also says that it's the only automaker to offer a 6-speed automatic transmission across its entire model lineup. The F-150 is also the only full-size pickup so far to offer electric power steering, which saves fuel and gives an improved steering feel. Across the lineup, the F-150 carries through with the full redesign that the truck received for 2009; since then, the F-150's very purposeful, upright instrument panel and vastly upgraded interior materials have stood out in this very competitive class.

What's new for 2011?
The Ford F-150 has an all-new roster of engines for 2011, including Ford's first-ever turbocharged. The entire engine lineup is now mated to 6-speed automatic transmissions. The EcoBoost V6 is also one for the history books-a turbocharged V6 that claims to provide V8 power and torque with V6 fuel economy, while still maintaining truck-duty standards of durability. The already extensive lineup of F-150 models has also been expanded to include Lariat Limited and XLT Custom models. Newly available on some F-150 trims is a message center that includes a 4.2-inch display screen that shows trip computer functions, towing performance and off-roading information. The system also includes a higher-resolution rearview camera display.

Model Strengths
* Smooth, strong new powertrain lineup
* fuel efficiency
* class-leading towing and payload capacities
* wide range of models for all budgets, tastes, and needs
* available luxury features

Model Review
There are now four different engines offered on the F-150: a 302-hp, 3.7-liter V6; a 360-hp, 5.0-liter; a 411-hp, 6.2-liter V8; and a 365-hp, 3.5-liter turbocharged V6. All four come hooked only to a 6-speed automatic transmission with tow/haul mode and they can be had with either rear- or 4-wheel drive. There are also several cab lengths, and Regular, SuperCab and SuperCrew cab styles. The latter of the four engines-the EcoBoost turbo V6-is the star of the lineup-- it produces V8 levels of power, but with V6 fuel efficiency. Peak torque for the EcoBoost V6 is 420 pound-feet that starts as low as 1,700 rpm and models with this engine are rated at a best-in-class 11,300 pounds and a best-in-class payload of 3,060. What's more, this engine, which Ford will be promoting as an alternative to step-up V8 models from competitors, runs just fine on regular unleaded gas.

2012 Mini Cooper S, John Cooper Works Coupe - Photos and Info

Mini’s cars are known for their flingability, but the company is dragging its feet releasing info on its new Cooper Coupe. Last week, we got our first official photos of the car (albeit still partially covered in camouflage) and then got to drive a prototype (again, still partially covered in camouflage). This time, we’ve finally got photos of the whole car—not the concept, not spy shots of a camouflaged production car, not official shots of a camouflaged car, but official shots of a fully exposed production coupe, its thin quarter and rear glass uncovered, its helmet roof and racing stripes revealed in all their glory.

A Quick Re-Cap
There is very little new information accompanying these new photos. For those of you who missed the last few stories, however, here is a recap of this re-capped Cooper: the Mini Coupe is a two-seat, trunk-ated (though not truncated) version of Mini’s feisty hatch, based on the Cooper convertible’s structure. It has the same footprint as the Cooper hatchback, but its roof is roughly an inch lower and it features a faster windshield angle.

All three of the 1.6-liter engines offered on other Coopers sold in the States will be available in the coupe: the 121-hp naturally aspirated base four-cylinder, the raucous 181-hp turbocharged version of same, and the wild-child 208-hp John Cooper Works turbo four.

Wheels will come in 15-, 16-, and 17-inch sizes, with plenty of different designs available as options. Thanks to added bracing in the rear bulkhead and elsewhere, the Mini Cooper Coupe will be torsionally stiffer than the hardtop, but, at least in JCW form, it also will be roughly 55 pounds heavier.

However, we already know that, thanks to bespoke suspension tuning and brake-based torque vectoring, the coupe is more fun to drive than any other Mini body style. (At least it is for now. Engineers on our drive of the JCW car told us the final calibrations could still change.)

Lots of New Details
So, the news now is that the coupe will be available in nine colors, each featuring a contrasting roof in silver, black, or red. The only exception is black cars, which will be available with a black roof. Racing stripes will be optional. On the hood and trunklid, they will match the roof, and on the roof, they will match the body color. Also, the Coupe’s available xenon headlights may be ordered with a black housing, lending a more sinister appearance to the front end.

Park-distance control will be standard, and probably very handy since you may not be able to see much out of the mail-slot rear window. The Coupe’s cavelike interior comes standard with black upholstery and an anthracite headliner with ovoid recesses maximizing the available headroom. Sport seats are standard across the range, with leather, contrasting piping, and splashes of interior trim color available in option packages.

Other options include automatically dimming rearview and exterior mirrors, preparation for a trunk-top luggage rack, the John Cooper Works appearance pack (for non-JCW models), a Harman/Kardon sound system, Bluetooth and USB connectivity, and the Mini Connected system.

Inside, the cover separating the passenger compartment from the trunk features integrated headrest fairings that look cool but offer no functional benefit.

We still don’t know exact pricing, curb weight, or when we’ll start this whole sequence of coverage for the Coupe’s topless twin, the Roadster. We will bring those details to you as soon as they emerge. Meanwhile, enjoy these photos of Mini’s racy little two-seater with no camo—finally.

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee

SRT8 4dr SUV (6.4L V8 4x4 8-speed Automatic)

The Jeep Grand Cherokee gained an immense amount of refinement, sophistication and luxury with last year's full redesign. For 2012, it gets a bonkers high-performance SRT8 version that produces 465 horsepower. It may not be the most politically correct vehicle on the road, but the JGC is no doubt one impressive SUV.

Grand Cherokee SRT8
* 6.4L V8 engine
* Automatic transmission
* 4-wheel drive
* Navigation System
* Bluetooth
* iPod input
* Satellite radio
* Side/Curtain Airbags
* Stability Control
* Traction Control
* DVD player

The high-performance SRT8 took last year off while the regular Grand Cherokee was completely (and successfully) overhauled. Along with those inherent improvements, the 2012 SRT8 version brings with it a 465-hp 6.4-liter Hemi V8 that will supposedly bring this Jeep from zero to 60 mph in 4.8 seconds. Other upgrades include an SRT-tuned adaptive suspension, Brembo brakes, forged 20-inch wheels, steering wheel paddle shifters and special bodywork. Check back later this year for additional details as well as a full review of the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Exterior
Tires and Wheels
* Polished alloy wheels
* 20 in. wheels
* P295/45R Z tires
* All season tires

Roof and Glass
* Speed sensitive and rain sensing wipers

Doors
* Rear power liftgate door

Measurements
* Width: 76.3 in.
* Length: 189.8 in.
* Wheel base: 114.8 in.
* Maximum towing capacity: 5000 lbs.

Mechanical
Engine & Performance
* Base engine size: 6.4 L
* Cam type: Overhead valves (OHV)
* Cylinders: V8
* Valves: 16
* Torque: 465 ft-lbs. @ 2800 rpm
* Base engine type: gas

DriveTrain
* Drive type: four wheel drive
* On demand 4WD
* Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
* Rear limited slip differential
* Brake hill holder

Fuel
* Fuel type: gas
* Fuel type: premium unleaded (required)
* Range in miles (cty/hwy): N/A

Safety
Safety & Security
* 4-wheel ABS
* Dual front and dual rear side-mounted airbags
* Child seat anchors
* Remote anti-theft alarm system
* Emergency braking assist
* Front and rear ventilated disc brakes
* Daytime running lights
* Engine immobilizer
* Xenon high intensity discharge headlamp
* Front center 3-point belt
* Rear center 3-point belt
* Turn signal mirrors
* Stability control
* Post-collision safety system
* Pre-collision safety system
* Passenger head restraint whiplash protection system
* Emergency braking preparation
* Driver head restraint whiplash protection system
* Tire pressure monitoring

Telematics
* Hard drive based display w/voice activation and directions navigation system
* Pre-wired for phone
* Bluetooth wireless data link for hands-free phone
* Real time traffic

About the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class will achieve higher fuel economy.
The 2010 M-Class is shown here.

Automakers may be loath to talk about future products, but that doesn't mean they want to keep their plans totally secret. Why else do they keep testing prototypes in locations frequented by spy photographers if not to get some advance publicity?

Nevertheless, Mercedes-Benz has kept an unusually tight lid on details about its third-generation M-Class premium-midsize SUV. Though camouflaged units have been spied on various roads and racetracks since summer 2009, M-B hasn't confirmed anything about this new model, nor has it unveiled the usual lightly disguised "concept" teaser, at least not yet. But though solid intel is sparse, sources have picked up enough info for us to paint a fairly accurate portrait of what's reportedly coming by mid-2011.

For starters, the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class should be a full redesign, not a heavy makeover of the 2006-2010 generation. It's said to employ an all-new unibody architecture that Mercedes parent Daimler AG developed with Chrysler Group toward the end of those companies' stormy 10-year marriage. This platform also hosts the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee and is slated for a redesigned 2012 Dodge Durango (likely to be renamed Magnum). However, we suspect Daimler took it back to the drawing board after divorcing Chrysler so that no one could accuse the next M-Class of being even distantly related to anything sold by the troubled American automaker. And indeed, the M-Class will continue to be built at Mercedes' plant in Vance, Alabama, while the Chrysler SUVs roll out from that company's Jefferson North facility near Detroit.

Our hunch about platform alterations is based on reports that the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class will be considerably lighter than current models, perhaps by as much as 300 pounds. Whatever the actual reduction, it's in line with efforts by all European automakers to pare as many pounds as possible so that vehicles can run smaller, more-efficient engines as a path to meeting the EU's stiff new limits on CO2 emissions. Of course, less flab is also a path to higher mpg, all else being equal, so the M-Class redesign dovetails nicely with Mercedes' need to comply with stiff new fuel-economy standards here in the U.S. We'd guess the weight will be lost mainly through more extensive use of lighter materials such as high-strength steel, aluminum, and plastic composites, but nothing more exotic or costly than that.

Despite its new "bones," the 2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class will cast about the same shadow as today's version. Gossips speak of modest trims to wheelbase and overall length, which we peg at 1.2 and 2.2 inches, respectively. Width and height should stand virtually pat, however, and overall interior space should be little affected.

Mazda MX-5 Review

Performance
The MX-5 comes with either a 124bhp 1.8- or a 158bhp 2.0-litre engine. Both normally have five-speed gearboxes but the 2.0-litre is available with an optional close-ratio six-speed unit.

A six-speed automatic gearbox is an option for the 2.0. Both engines only come alive when they're worked hard, but do so and they're lively.

Ride & Handling
You want your roadster to be fun? The MX-5 will be right up your street. The light body and rear-wheel drive chassis give it outstanding balance and just keeps on gripping through corners. Sensitive, communicative steering adds to the experience.

The ride is firm but not uncomfortable, although Sport versions have stiffer suspension that is less forgiving.
Refinement
With the roof down, the breeze is well isolated and the high-backed sports seats help prevent draughts around the driver and passenger. Roof up, the fabric does a decent job of blotting out wind noise, but if you do a lot of winter motorway driving, it is worth paying the extra for the Roadster Coupe's hard top. Both engines sound rather gruff and boomy, and it's best to avoid the automatic gearbox, which isn't very smooth.

Hyundai Sonata - What the Auto Press Says??

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata ranks 2 out of 19 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 11 published reviews and test drives of the Hyundai Sonata, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. Sharply-styled inside and out, and remarkably fuel-efficient, the all-new Hyundai Sonata is winning some positive press -- but its most upscale trims can’t compete with some competitors.

In its previous form, the Hyundai Sonata quietly built a reputation as an excellent value, with long warranty coverage and a lot of options at a low price. Completely redesigned for the 2011 model year, the new Sonata won’t do anything quietly. It’s one of the most unusual looking cars to hit the affordable midsize sedan class in years. It still carries that long warranty, and offers a long standard feature list even on its least-expensive trim levels. But it now combines those conservative values with dramatic styling inside and out. The new Sonata has been on the market a very short time, but Edmunds writes, “So far, it's proving difficult to find any substantial flaws in the considerable armor of the 2011 Hyundai Sonata, and the case for it only grows stronger when you consider the price points. This is, quite frankly, a tremendous amount of car for the money.”

Hyundai offers the Sonata with only a four-cylinder engine, even though almost every other car in its class is available with a V6. Still, reviewers say the Sonata offers plenty of power for most everyday needs, and impressive fuel economy as well. Most like the unusual styling outside, and almost all like the contemporary styling inside and the huge amount of passenger space. However, its cloth upholstery and front seats don’t leave many critics impressed.

Other Cars to Consider:
Reviewers say the Sonata may be an excellent choice for those shopping at the low-cost end of the midsize car segment, where its standard Bluetooth and XM Satellite Radio even on base models are unusual. Near the $20,000 mark, only the Suzuki Kizashi offers a similar package. Buyers might also be interested in the Kizashi’s available all-wheel drive.

Those with a little more to spend, however, might be disappointed that it’s hard to equip a Sonata as a more upscale car. The Ford Fusion, with its well-reviewed SYNC infotainment system and upscale cabin, might be a better choice for some. Those looking for a sportier feel without sacrificing fuel efficiency might want to test drive a four-cylinder Mazda6.

Details, the Hyundai Sonata
The Sonata has been completely redesigned for the 2011 model year. It’s available as a bargain-hunter’s GLS model (the only one offered with a stick shift), or a better-equipped Limited edition. A sport-tuned SE model is also available. Reviewers say it’s definitely sportier than other Sonatas, but still not the equal of a Mazda6 or Ford Fusion in the handling department.

• “The new Sonata is at or near the top of its hyper-competitive class in a broad range of categories -- some you might expect (low price, fuel economy, light weight) and some you might not (power, torque, interior space, and driving dynamics).”
• “Warning to Toyota, Honda, Ford, Chevrolet, Mazda and Nissan: Your corporate lives just became more difficult.”
• “On paper, it racks up enough best-in-class points to whoop the competition without breaking a sweat. On the road, we found the Sonata to be a strong contender with its bold new styling and a new sporty demeanor, but with arguably a little less grace and refinement than the outgoing model."
• "Completely redesigned for 2011, the Sonata is freshly styled and more spacious than its predecessor. It brings a few innovations to the game, including a new direct-injected four-cylinder powerplant mated to a six-speed automatic - yet it has no V6 option."

Hyundai Sonata Prices
We want to help you get a good deal on the Hyundai Sonata. While MSRP and Invoice prices are set by the manufacturer, they tell only part of the story. What you really need to know is what other people are paying for the Sonata. We work with TrueCar, Inc. to help you determine what constitutes a Great Price, Good Price, or High Price for the vehicle.

2011 Hyundai Sonata: 4dr Sdn 2.4 Man GLS *Ltd Avail*
Transmission: Manual MPG: 24 City / 35 Hwy Engine: Gas I4 2.4L/144
MSRP: $19,395
Invoice: $18,593
Avg. Paid Nationally:$19,816

2011 Hyundai Sonata: 4dr Sdn 2.4 Auto GLS *Ltd Avail*
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 22 City / 35 Hwy Engine: Gas I4 2.4L/144
MSRP: $20,395
Invoice: $19,538
Avg. Paid Nationally:$20,802

2011 Hyundai Sonata: 4dr Sdn 2.4 Auto SE *Ltd Avail*
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 22 City / 35 Hwy Engine: Gas I4 2.4L/144
MSRP: $22,795
Invoice: $21,578
Avg. Paid Nationally:$23,170

2011 Hyundai Sonata: 4dr Sdn 2.4 Auto Ltd *Ltd Avail*
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 22 City / 35 Hwy Engine: Gas I4 2.4L/144
MSRP: $25,495
Invoice: $23,847
Avg. Paid Nationally:$25,832

2011 Hyundai Sonata: 4dr Sdn 2.4 Auto Ltd w/Wine Int *Ltd Avail*
Transmission: AUTO MPG: 22 City / 35 Hwy Engine: Gas I4 2.4L/144
MSRP: $25,495
Invoice: $23,847
Avg. Paid Nationally:$25,834

Volkswagen Tiguan - What the Auto Press Says??

The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan ranks 5 out of 23 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 24 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen Tiguan, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

In this economy, the Tiguan will disappoint a lot of shoppers because it’s one of priciest SUVs in its class. Still, the price is fair for what you get: a nice interior and attractive exterior styling that reflect the Tiguan’s German roots.

Starting at about $24,000, the 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan is one of the most expensive affordable compact SUVs. Reviewers, however, do like what you get for nearly $24,000: standard Bluetooth technology, sporty car-like driving dynamics and a high-quality German interior. “The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a different flavor in a vanilla class by trading some practicality for a top-notch cabin and European driving manners," says Edmunds.

However, at this price, the Tiguan could be better. First, cargo space is on the small side, making this compact SUV less than ideal for families with young children. Second, the Tiguan uses premium fuel and has one of the lowest fuel economy ratings in the class. Third, once shoppers add features like all-wheel drive and a navigation system, the Tiguan quickly approaches $30,000.

That said, the Tiguan is the only German car in this class, which means you’ll have to check out luxury compact SUVs if you want a larger selection of European vehicles. These cars start at about $32,000 and can get really expensive once you add options. In this light, the Volkswagen Tiguan is a steal for budget shoppers who want European luxury for less.

Other SUVs to Consider
If you can pass on the Tiguan’s sporty driving dynamics, German nameplate and meager cargo room, there are plenty of affordable compact SUVs that will meet your needs. Let’s start with the Hyundai Tucson, one of the most affordable cars in the class that sips fuel and doesn’t offer a skimpy features list. The Tucson averages 23/31 mpg city/highway with six-speed automatic transmission. It also offers nice interior options like USB connectivity, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel and Bluetooth for about $22,000 when you choose the GLS trim. This is a great deal when you compare the Tucson GLS to the Tiguan’s base price.

The Honda CR-V surpasses the Tiguan when it comes to cargo space and utility. Made for families on the go, the CR-V’s cargo can hold 72.9 cubic feet of stuff with the seats folded. It also has an interior cargo shelf and cubbies that make organizing a breeze for busy parents. Starting at about $22,000, the CR-V is priced affordably, but can get expensive when you added extra features.

Details: Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2011 Volkswagen Tiguan is available in three trims: the S, SE and SEL. The S trim starts at about $24,000. Volkswagen's all-wheel drive system, 4motion, is available on the SE and SEL trims.