VW Jetta Hybrid

When it comes to a hybrid sedan, Volkswagen will not be left out. Up until recently, the only Volkswagen sedan you could get for fuel efficiency was a diesel, which was just as full efficient as the hybrids, there was still demands for Volkswagen to make a hybrid sedan. Beginning in 2013, the VW Jetta hybrid will be available for loyal VW customers who have been wanting a hybrid over the fuel dependent sedans.

The Features

The VW Jetta hybrid has many amazing features and comes with the same build of the popular body style of the regular Jetta. Just like its predecessor, this little car is spacious, powerful and dependable, all of which help to build the VW brand. The Jetta hybrid actually reached the 50 mile per gallon mark, which blows the competition away. If it is the features about the Jetta that you love, not to worry as they are all features in the Jetta hybrid also.

In essence, the Jetta sedan that VW customers love so much is Jetta in hybrid form. The only complaint has to do with the navigational system that customers do not seem very thrilled with. Even though the system is up to date and useful, it does not provide traffic information. For those customers who have a Smartphone, the GPS system does provide this feature so not having this feature on the hybrid is just slightly inconvenient.

The Price

Besides the navigational system, the only other bad thing about the Jetta hybrid is the price tag, which may cause loyal VW lovers to shy away. A basic model sedan comes with a price of just around $25,000 with a fully loaded sedan fetching a price tag of just over 35,000, which is a bit pricey. This price averages out to be about $5,000 more that the competitors for a fully loaded version. Unfortunately this price may make loyal VW owners rethink getting a hybrid even though there are very few complaints regarding the hybrid. It is well built, provides a smooth ride and all the features are well liked.

All in all, most people seem very pleased with their purchase of the 2013 Jetta hybrid even though the price is a bit high and it does not have all the features other vehicles have. Still, it is fuel efficient, luxurious, and reliable plus the fact that it tested extremely well and comes with a company that will be there to help you should any issues arise. The bottom line is that the 2013 Jetta hybrid delivers on everything it promises like fuel efficiency with a smooth quiet ride and all the competitors do not.

O'Steen Volkswagen is your premier Jacksonville Volkswagen dealership. Our convenient location allows us to serve all of Northeast Florida and Southeast Georgia.

Visit our website today for the best deals on VW's.

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Mercedes SLS - Electric Supercar

Mercedes have been producing high performance cars for many years, providing highly exhilarating performance cars. If Mercedes high performance cars weren't enough, Mercedes has a tuning brand named AMG, that produce highly tuned, and in some cased track oriented performance race cars based on the current Mercedes model lineup.

Mercedes being an innovative brand have ventured into the electric platform with the help of Tesla. The new version of the Mercedes SLS is an electric vehicle, can an electric supercar work?

What is it.

Mercedes have developed a unique state of the art electric car based on the Mercedes SLS sports car. While the "regular" Mercedes SLS AMG, develops 583 bhp from a 6.2 liter V8 engine, the Mercedes E - SLS develops 751 bhp, as electric motors provide all available torque from a standstill, that massive power difference is even more prominent.

Mercedes claim the Mercedes SLS AMG 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) is 3.7 seconds, while the electric Mercedes E - SLS accelerates to the same speed in 3.9 seconds, that does not sound like a big difference compared to the available power, but you need to consider that the Mercedes E - SLS weighs 500 kg more that the standard model, that puts the figures in perspective.

Having a powerful electric motor allows for instant power delivery, overcoming the Mercedes E - SLS's higher weight, and producing extreme performance. Unfortunately, enjoying the high availability of outright power and performance comes at a price, the batteries deplete very fast and require nearly 20 hours to recharge.

The impact.

With the ever changing regulatory demands, emission standards, added pressure on automakers to reduce fuel consumption, engine size, engine power output and engine noise, it seemed the days of high performance supercars are coming to an end.

Latest innovations in electric motor design, and high powered efficient electric batteries, are changing the game. Tesla have proven that a sporty electric car is viable with the Tesla Roadster, and the addition of the Tesla Model S, high performing electric platforms do work.

Mercedes wanted to showcase an electric supercar with the Mercedes E - SLS, and they have done so, the unique characteristics, performance and usability (if a bit range restrictive), prove that there will always be super performance cars available, for a decent price tag, in this case $200,000.

Emerging technologies are proving that high performance automobile will not disappear form the market place. As long as there is demand for high performance cars and dedicated race oriented cars, there will be a technological answer.

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The Intriguing BMW I8 Concept Car

There has never been a lack of designs that provide us with hints on what the cars of the future are going to look like, with Japan and German car makers making the most interesting and realistic-looking concepts, that could get into mass production in the near future. One such car is the BMW i8 concept, which was unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Auto Show, and it's expected that the Bavarian car manufacturer is going to start producing it in 2013. It's also known as BMW Concept Vision Efficient Dynamics, and is part of BMW's "Project i".

This is a plug-in hybrid, that is powered by a high-performance 1.5-liter, 3-cylinder combustion engine, providing 220 horsepower and 221 lb-ft of torque, that works in tandem with two electric motors. This combination provides excellent performances, reminiscent of the best sports cars in the world, but also makes for a very good fuel efficiency at the same time. So, it goes from 0-60 mph in 4.8 seconds, with a top speed of 160 mph. The fuel consumption is rated at 70 mpg, and it has an ultra-low emissions rating of 99 grams per kilometer, according to the manufacturer. You can travel up to 20 miles before the lithium-ion batteries need to be recharged, which is one of the aspects of the i8 that must be improved.

Inside, this coupe can accommodate 4 people, with two pairs of sports leather seats in the front and the back. The control panels and all the instruments are arranged in a way that allows you to enjoy a sporty and aggressive ride, and still be in control of the vehicle. There are three-dimensional displays which give information on engine speed, navigation and entertainment functions, as well as battery levels.

The exterior design makes it look as a real futuristic car. It has a lightweight, aluminum chassis, with the sunroof, windows and windshield made of polycarbonate glass. The doors and the roof are completely transparent, which gives you a clear view of the inside and provides a lot of light into the cabin. But, the innovations don't stop here. The BMW i8 features something that is rarely seen on cars - laser lighting. There are laser headlights instead of LED lights, which makes the car a lot more energy efficient than most similar concept cars.

This amazing sports car should become available for purchase in 2014, and according to some speculations, it will definitely cost over $150,000.

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At a Glance: 2014 Cadillac ELR

Vehicle electrification has arrived at Cadillac and the model that gets this 21st century technology is an elegant, sport coupe dubbed ELR. ELR stands for "extended luxury range" or what was once the Converj Concept. The 2014 Cadillac ELR is based on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Volt, but has its own body and an updated version of the Volt powertrain.

Slippery Design

The ELR's .305 coefficient of drag underscores this coupe's angular body lines. Typical Cadillac "art & science" design is evident, with strong contours, a creased hood, broad shoulders and sweeping body lines evident throughout. The ELR is reminiscent of the Cadillac CTS Coupe, but its design is its own and the differences between the two models are most evident across the roof line and rear pillars.

The 2014 Cadillac ELR is a front-wheel drive 2+2 coupe. It is a compact car, but it weighs in at 4,070 pounds. Under the hood is a 1.4-liter four cylinder gas engine that is paired with a single speed automatic transmission. Electric motors supply energy for up to the first 35 miles with the gasoline engine kicking in once depleted. All told, the vehicle's range is well over 300 miles.

ELR Dimensions

Riding on 20-inch cast aluminum wheels that are set within all-season tires, the Cadillac ELR features electric power steering, four channel ABS, stability control, traction control and drag control.

This model sits on a 106.1-inch wheelbase and is 186 inches long, by 72.7 inches wide by 55.9 inches tall. Front headroom measures 36.9 inches and there is 34.7 inches in the rear. Front shoulder room comes in at 55.2 inches to 49.9 inches in the rear. Front hip room measures 52.9 inches to 48.6 inches in the rear. Leg room comes in at 42.2 inches up front to 33.6 inches in the back seat. The Cadillac ELR offers 9 cubic feet of trunk storage.

Cabin Amenities

Inside, the Cadillac ELR cabin offers front sport bucket seats and fold down rear seats that extend storage capacity. This vehicle is outfitted with Cadillac CUE, the brand's telematics and connectivity platform, and features leather seating surfaces, chrome trim and ambient lighting. A 10-speaker Bose audio system with noise cancellation technology is standard.

Cadillac designed the ELR cabin with a driver focus, providing an eight-inch configurable instrument panel and display to provide four levels of technical information. That information includes your driving range, charging options, energy usage, infotainment options and other features.

ELR Production 

Production of the Cadillac ELR is expected to start late in 2013 at its Detroit-Hamtramck Assembly Plant. That facility builds the Chevrolet Volt as well as the Holden Volt and Opel Ampera. At present, GM is sending its EV to 21 countries with the Cadillac ELR slated to debut in North America first with a roll out to Europe, China and elsewhere starting in 2014.

The ELR comes in the midst of a Cadillac renaissance that is bringing new models to the vehicle line at a rapid pace. In 2012, the XTS and ATS sedans were released. Updates to the CTS, SRX and Escalade lines will begin in 2014 and a smaller crossover is also being planned.

Matt Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. He is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Fabtech Lifts and KYB Shocks.

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About the 2014 Fiat 500L

Fiat fans in the United States have grown a bit impatient in recent years as the Italian brand continues to hawk just one model: the Fiat 500. That vehicle is available in various permutations, but when you get down to that it is still a 500 whether it is sold as a coupe, a cabriolet or as an Abarth. Come 2015, we'll see upwards of six new Fiat models introduced to the North American market, but before then we'll see yet another version of the 500 hit highways and byways by this summer. The 2014 Fiat 500L is that model, a five-door extended version of the popular Italian mini. Here is what we know about this model.

Fiat 500L

Form meets function with the Fiat 500L. This model sits on a stretched wheelbase version of the standard model and offers room for up to five occupants. Besides the longer wheelbase, the two added side doors makes this model easy to enter and leave, making it possible for rear riding occupants to actually have the legroom required to make their trip more than just bearable.

Fiat has a middle seat arrangement for the 500L, something to consider if you need a car that can carry five people in a pinch. Otherwise, that position's seat can be folded down, to give two rear seating passengers access to cup holders and an arm rest.

Performance Specifications

Fiat is leaving nothing to chance with the 500L, equipping this model with its turbocharged 1.4-liter four cylinder engine and pairing it with a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Fiat's MultiAir technology ensures that every engine performs optimally, delivering quick acceleration and top speed on demand.

The Fiat 500L engine makes 160 horsepower and 184 foot-pounds of torque. Either transmission choice allows for spirited driving, something that this car delivers on its tiny frame.

Interior Highlights

The "L" in the 500L stands for "length" or extended length, but it could just as easily stand for luxury especially when this model is fully equipped. You get seven standard airbags, Bluetooth connectivity and a tilt and telescopic steering column. You also can opt for a navigation system, an upgraded audio package, SiriusXM satellite radio and a sunroof.

Fiat also makes available leather seating surfaces, heated front seats and a larger UConnect touchscreen. More than a half dozen exterior colors including a contrasting white or black roof with coordinated side mirror caps gives this vehicle a unique look.

Urban Utility Vehicle

Early marketing of the Fiat 500L reveals a car that has a roomy interior, ample storage capacity and unique design features including LED treatments that surround the head lamps. We don't know the full measurements of this vehicle yet, but if you're cross-shopping the MINI Countryman, you've found a good place to start.

The Fiat 500L is being plugged as an urban utility vehicle. This front-wheel-drive model should be acceptable for most, but a lack of all-wheel-drive availability will temper its utility vehicle credentials. Still, with its roomy interior and expanded storage capacity, the Fiat 500L does for the brand something that no other Fiat has done thus far: given us room to carry four passengers and their stuff in style.

Matt Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. He is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including BMW rims and aftermarket auto parts.

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irst Drive 2014 Jaguar XFR-S: 550 Horses, Four Doors and A Whole Lot of Fun

Today, I went to an autocross day sponsored by Jaguar to put their latest models through their paces in a manner not generally suitable for the open road. While drifting an XJ and throwing an XKR around a corner was undeniably fun, I was surprised and ecstatic when the Jaguar marketing guy pointed toward a brand-spanking-new Italian Racing Red XFR-S and asked me if I wanted to take it for a spin, on a closed course no less. Me, trying to be nonchalant said "sure." But, I think he may have seen through my mask of cool nonchalance when I nearly knocked the poor guy over sprinting to the Jag's driver's seat.

Before I get into what it was like to actually drive the $99,000 2014 Jaguar XFR-S in a spirited manner (I think this may actually be the first published review of a drive in the XFR-S), here is a little primer on the car. As the baddest high performance member of the Jaguar XF clan and the most powerful Jaguar sedan ever produced, the XFR-S boasts the 550 horse 502 pound-feet supercharged 5.0 liter V8 as the XKR-S coupe. For those keeping score, that's a 40 horse and 41 pound-feet bump over the XFR, all the while matching the XFR's 23 mpg highway. Routing that power through a ZF eight-speed Quickshift transmission and the XFR-S hits 60 miles-per-hour in a scant 4.4s.

The XFR-S is equipped with Jaguar's Electronic Active Differential and Dynamic Stability Control systems, though they have been re-tuned to maximize the XFR-S's increased grunt. Thorough front and rear suspension upgrades better steering response and increase lateral stiffness up to 30 percent, which you can really tell on hard acceleration and in the turns (more on that later). Aerodynamic changes, like an absurdly large carbon fiber wing and rear diffuser, set the XFR-S apart visually and reduce lift by 68 percent. Inside its all contrast stitching, carbon fiber, bolstered seats and dark Alcantara. It's a very nice place to be.

Okay, so what's it like to drive? So glad you asked. In a word... smooth. Fast, precise, confident and... smooth. When climbing into most 550 horse cars you generally have to do just that, climb. They're often low sportscars with thick door sills. Not so with the Jaguar XFR-S. While it is lower than a regular XF, it is still a fairly large sedan, so ingress and egress is easy. The driving position is fantastic. With Jaguar's 20-way adjustable seats and power tilt and telescoping steering wheel there is no reason not to find just the right fit. The seats' power adjustable bolsters are also quite nice as you can essentially decide whether your seat is a slip-and-slide or a hug from your dear aunt Ida. I opt for Ida.

With an air of expectation of what's to come, I step on the brake and hold down the start/stop button. On ignition you're treated to a sonorous V8 rumble that you feel as much as hear. Hit the gas and that rumble very quickly turns into a roar. Man, this car sounds good, way better I ever would image a Jaguar sedan would sound. I knew then that I was in for a very fun drive.

Spin the XFR-S's gear selector right past drive and into sport, and I'm all set to go. I take a second to let a wayward pedestrian pass in front of me and pull to the starting line. Yay. The first part of the course is a short straightaway into a hairpin turn. Double yay. I punch the accelerator and I'm off in a cloud of dust and squealing tires.

Sixty passes in 4.4 seconds. The acceleration is strong, linear and constant but still pins you to the seat. I keep the go-pedal floored until around 80 mph before braking into the turn, hard. I go from 80 to what feels like a crawl in no time flat. The Jag's big brakes clamp down and shed speed remarkably well. There isn't even a hint of wobble in the wheel under very hard braking. Like I said... smooth.

The XFR-S's stiffened suspension and various stability and differential control systems are set to a minimally invasive setting. Even without any insistent computer forcing me to slow down, the medium-sized Jag corners incredibly flat and precise. The steering isn't quite as hard as I would like, but apexes are easy to find and even easier to hit. In theory the tires squeal, but I'm too focused on the drive to hear them.

Reluctantly, after entirely too short a time, I pull the XFR-S back into its parking spot and climb out. But, I climb out having driven the Jaguar XFR-S, one of the best high performance sedans I have ever experienced. I am very very impressed with this car. It goes like the dickens, stops like it runs into a brick wall and turns like it's on rails. The Jaguar XFR-S hits dealers this summer with a price tag starting at $99,000. Not cheap, but well worth a look.

Technical Specifications:

• Engine: 5.0 liter Supercharged V8
• Peak Power: 550 hp 6500 rpm
• Peak Torque: 502 lb-ft at 2500-5500 rpm
• Transmission: ZF 8-Speed Quickshift Automatic
• 0-60 mph: 4.4 sec
• Top Speed: 186 mph (electronically limited)
• Fuel Economy: 15 mpg city / 23 mpg Highway

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New Bentley SUV 4x4 Planned for 2014

The historical prestigious car manufacturer, the Bentley Motor Car company has always been at the pinnacle of British automotive engineering and up there with Rolls Royce when it comes to prestigious luxury car manufacturing and design. Even Queen Elizabeth II has two of the "Bentley Arnage R" models as her 'State Limousine'.

Even Bentleys' roots stem from its early years in technically advanced engineering and development practices, coupled with the company's phenomenal start in the motoring racing world with its run of successful victories at the famous 24 hour Le Mans race in France, with a staggering five time race victories during a "10 year" time span.

Bentley have always tried to push the envelope where automotive excellence is concerned and aims to give the best luxury driving experience possible, so its no surprise to learn that Bentley have now announced the development for a new vehicle in their new luxury line-up. The announcement came from the new Bentley motors boss "Wolfgang Durheimer" and confirmed months of speculation that Bentley will be producing a 4x4 SUV model, which should be launched sometime in 2014.

The luxury car marque which is owned by The Volkswagen Group, will be using some its parent company's technology and also using the chassis from the new forthcoming Audi Q7 4x4 SUV. This step into the SUV market is an aim at the upper luxury end of the spectrum and to fill the gap in the current range.

Many of the other luxury car marques are currently producing SUVs in this prestigious motoring sector, although none that should be able to rival Bentley's planned esteemed four-wheeled drive offering. This is also a good move financially as like many of the other luxury car manufactures Bentley Motors are enjoying growing car sales in all of the new and emerging automotive markets, like China, India, Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates to name a few. This new addition to the Bentley stable is sure to be welcomed in the USA which is another big market for Bentley motor cars, where in recent years certain car brands have struggled, but Bentley seems to be bucking the trend.

The new Bentley SUV will be likely to feature a newly developed Audi V12 TDi engine with immense power that will suit the Bentley SUV and the loyal Bentley car buyers across the globe. As this diesel will undoubtedly return a better average mile to the gallon economy, but also mean is slightly greener option as a power unit for the planned 4x4.

Gregory Greene is writing on behalf of Bramleys in Surrey, the best choice for a Bentley Dealer or when choosing specialist for a complete Classic car restoration and to purchase your next prestigious or luxury motor car.

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Arriving in 2014: All-New Small Cadillac Crossover SUV

The Cadillac brand continues to add new models, with the XTS and ATS joining the fold in 2012, the ELR in 2013 and updates of current models also rolling out. General Motors is on a roll with its luxury brand, a formidable competitor to the likes of BMW, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Infiniti, Audi and other premium brands. One new model that will likely be introduced is a subcompact crossover, but you will have to wait until 2014 to see this vehicle.

Crossover SUV

Plans for a small crossover SUV are progressing, a model that will compete against the BMW 1 Series. This won't be the first time that GM has offered a premium subcompact crossover SUV as the automaker now has the Buick Encore in its fold. Still, its top brand has lacked such a model, a vehicle that will slot below the SRX when it is introduced.

Details about the upcoming Cadillac model are scarce, but Automotive News interviewed Cadillac head Bob Ferguson to confirm the rumored vehicle's existence. Ferguson noted that such a model was in the planning stages, but did not commit to this model being sold in North America, at least not initially.

Engine Choices

GM has been expanding Cadillac's visibility across China and is in the process of relaunching the brand in Europe, a market that is beset by overcapacity and economic struggles. Still, GM sees Europe as important to Cadillac's ultimate success and will likely offer the unnamed crossover to the market when it is released Asia. That means the crossover will offer at least one diesel engine, a powerplant that could also find its way to America.

Cadillac currently is outselling its America rival, Lincoln, by a 2-to-1 margin. However, parent Ford Motor Company has committed to invest billions in resurrecting Lincoln, a brand that was the top luxury make as recently as 1998. At the 2013 North American International Auto Show in Detroit, the Lincoln MKC concept was unveiled -- that vehicle, expected to go into production for 2014 would compete directly against the BMW 1 Series as well as the upcoming Cadillac model.

New Buyers

There are two very good reasons why Cadillac will offer a diminutive crossover SUV. The first reason is that the brand must appeal to younger and more urbane buyers. Cadillac's future hinges on expanding its appeal, therefore upwardly mobile 30-something buyers would be targeted.

The second reason for the model is that stronger fleet fuel economy requirements are gradually kicking in. The brand, long dependent on oversized SUVs such as the Escalade and big sedans such as the retired DTS, must offset its larger vehicles with smaller models. It is reasonable to believe that the new crossover might possibly offer a hybrid model too, one that would get 40 mpg.

New Models

For Cadillac, every new model comes with some risks. The luxury market continues to grow, but the strongest players have been raising the bar quickly. The new Cadillac crossover SUV must be executed flawlessly or risk alienating potential buyers. That's a risk GM will work to overcome, by presenting a new model that meets, even exceeds expectations.

Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. Matt is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including AEM Intake and HKS Exhaust.

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Midsize Surprise: 2014 Mazda Mazda6

When it comes to midsize sedans, every manufacturer has a presence in this "family car" segment. That is no surprise as the D-segment is both a sales leader and a money maker. The competition here is also very stiff with the Toyota Camry leading the market followed by the Honda Accord. The Nissan Altima, Ford Fusion and Hyundai Sonata also make a strong impression, but the big surprise just may come from one of the smallest manufacturers: Mazda. Indeed, the 2014 Mazda6 is all-new, a five passenger sedan that is packed with surprises and great value.

Background

First offered in the 2003 model year, the Mazda6 is now in its third generation. The first models shared a platform with various Ford vehicles including the Ford Fusion, but the current edition was built strictly in-house. The current edition is priced from $20,800 or toward the bottom end of the midsize sedan segment.

Engine and Transmissions

The Mazda6 is sold in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring editions. This vehicle is powered by a SKYACTIV four cylinder gasoline engine, displacing at 2.5 liters. This engine makes 184 horsepower and 185 foot-pounds of torque and is the sole engine offered with this vehicle.

Sport and Touring editions are equipped with a standard 6-speed manual transmission. A six-speed automatic transmission is optional, but standard with the Grand Touring edition.

Gas mileage is at the top of the midsize range with the standard models rated at 25 mpg in town and 37 mpg on the highway. When equipped with an automatic transmission, this vehicle gets 26 mpg in the city and 38 mpg on the highway. That highway figure ties the Nissan Altima for segment leadership.

Exterior Highlights

Based on the Mazda Takeri concept, the 2014 Mazda6 espouses the brands' "soul in motion" design language to deliver a sporty sedan that is stylish and crisp. This model features a powerful fascia, strong shoulders, sweeping and sculpted body lines, and an overall modern look.

Mazda6 is outfitted with 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels and features color coordinated side mirror caps and door handles. This vehicle offers standard halogen headlamps, but can be had with Bi-Xenon HID headlights and LED tail lights. An adaptive front lighting system is also available.

Interior Highlights

Inside, the Mazda6 cabin is bright, spacious and offers numerous luxury touches. This vehicle features a sport steering wheel, a three-panel dashboard display, a center stack display and easy to understand knobs and switches to control audio and climate control systems.

Standard equipment includes air conditioning, a tilt and telescopic steering column, a six-speaker audio system, power windows and power door locks, steering wheel mounted controls and intermittent wipers. Touring editions bring in a six-way power driver's seat, leatherette seating surfaces, HD radio, Pandora Internet radio, Bluetooth connectivity and larger wheels. Choose the Grand Touring edition for a power sliding moonroof, a rear lip spoiler, upgraded lighting, paddle shifters, leather treatments, heated front seats and a Bose audio system.

Mazda6 Raves

The all-new Mazda6 should be considered if you're looking at buying a five passenger front-wheel-drive sedan. Perhaps the only thing that it lacks is an all-wheel-drive option, but then it will soon offer a diesel option, something very few of its competitors are able to claim.

Matt Keegan is a freelance automotive writer. He is also a contributing writer for Andy's Auto Sport and affiliated websites, an aftermarket supplier of quality auto parts including Toyota Tundra wheels and Ford F-150 wheels.

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The McLaren MP4-12C Velocita With COR Rims and Carbon Fiber

After taking a few years off from building cars, McLaren has come back with a great deal of momentum by stealing headlines with two new super cars, the first of which was the new MP4-12C. The new mid-engined super car offers a superb mixture of everyday driving dynamics and high-performance driving characteristics that make it at home on the race track or the roadways. The new MP4-12C has been arriving at dealerships around the world for over six months and a variety of aftermarket tuning companies have already designed and produced new upgrade programs for them. One company, DMC Tuning in Germany, decided to wait and work on fine-tuning their upgrade program to produce the best upgrade program for the new super car.

Called the "Velocita", the new carbon fiber upgrade program includes aerodynamic body work, a new exhaust system, and lightweight COR rims made from forged aluminum alloy.

The first part of the new upgrade program that was addressed was the aerodynamics of the McLaren MP4-12C. The German aftermarket tuning company developed a carbon fiber body kit using advanced CAD software and lengthy wind-tunnel testing to create a functional option with an OEM fitment. The new body kit consists of a new front fascia that uses new grille inserts and a splitter to generate downforce at the front axle and improve cooling to the front radiators and braking system. A pair of new side skirts helps to redirect air away from the new set of COR rims at the rear and reduce drag for the super car. The rear of the MP4-12C Velocita features a new diffuser with dual fins to help create a suction effect with the pavement and a large rear spoiler atop the engine cover that generates downforce without increasing drag.

The next step was to upgrade the engine. The 3.8-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 engine was outfitted with a new lightweight titanium exhaust that improves performance. Everything from the exhaust manifold to the rear tailpipes is constructed form titanium to reduce weight and backpressure for better overall performance. The result is over 600 brake horsepower being sent to each of the rear COR rims with a sub 3.5-second 0-62 mph acceleration time.

The final aspect of the new super car that the team at DMC Tuning upgraded as part of the new McLaren MP4-12C Velocita program was the wheel and tire setup. The team opted for a new set of COR rims made from forged aluminum alloy to keep weight to a minimum at the wheel hub. The wheels were installed with a 21-inch diameter at the front and rear axle and shod with 255/30 ZR21 front and 355/25 ZR21 Continental Sport Contact high-performance tires for better grip.

Douglas Cougevan is a contributing writer at COR Wheels. COR Rims specializes in 3 piece wheels and monoblock rims in a variety of both traditional step lip, reverse, and concave designs.

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The New Porsche 911 GT3 With 3 Piece Wheels and New Drivetrain

The Porsche 911 has spawned numerous variants throughout its history ranging from the luxurious to the hardcore, stripped-down models designed for maximum performance on the racetrack. The past 20 years has seen the 911 be made into a special GT3 model variant that focuses on creating the best driving experience on the race track by offering a number of exclusive options, weight saving measures, and high-performance technology to make the 911 into a race car for the road. The newest 991-generation Porsche 911 GT3 carries on the success of the previous GT3 models and becomes the fastest of its kind to ever hit the race track thanks to new aerodynamics, a better powertrain, 3 piece wheels, and an array of new technology.

One of the special parts of the Porsche 911 GT3 is its powertrain that has always been a high-revving version of the standard 911 Carrera S engine and a manual transmission. For the new 991-generation of the GT3, a few things changed, most notably being the transmission. Instead of the standard six-speed manual, a seven-speed reinforced and modified PDK duala-clutch transmission is used that is similar to those used in the company's racing programs. While this may ruffle the feathers of true Porsche enthusiasts, they'll be happy to see a high-revving 3.8-liter flat-six powering the rear 3 piece wheels. The engine is capable of reaching speeds of 9,000 RPM and produces 475 hp at 8,250 RPM and 324 lb. ft. of torque at 6,250 RPM. This allows the super car to reach 60 mph from rest in only 3.3 seconds and a top speed of 195 mph, good for a faster Nurburgring lap time than its more powerful 997 911 GT2 predecessor.

Much of the Porsche 911 GT3's success as a track car and in terms of sales is largely due to its nimble chassis. The car is based on the wider body of the 911 Carrera 4S model to improve traction and maneuverability, and features special motorsports upgrades such as aluminum components and 3 piece wheels. Parts of the suspension such as the springs and dampers are made from lighter materials and offer better bound, rebound, and height characteristics for improved overall performance. New lightweight aluminum alloy brakes are used that feature four-piston monoblock calipers and 380 mm ventilated discs that are cooled by new integrated ducting. New 3 piece wheels with a center locking mechanism and forged aluminum alloy construction help to reduce weight at the wheel hub and provide better overall performance.

New technology also helps to make the Porsche 911 GT3 more composed and perform better on the race track. Porsche Active Suspension Management helps to instantly alter the damper settings to keep the car composed and handling well during tight turns and elevation changes. Porsche Torque Vectoring brakes the inside 3 piece wheel during a turn to provide more agile handling in tight turns and corners. For the first time rear-axle steering is used to virtually elongate the track of both front and rear axles for better grip characteristics.
 
New aerodynamics are also featured on the 991-generation Porsche 911 GT3. A larger rear spoiler wing, new side skirts, a new front splitter, and advanced bumper design with cooling inlets are all improvements over the previous generation that reduce drag and increase downforce for better overall performance.

Douglas Cougevan is a contributing writer at COR Wheels. COR Wheels specializes in 3 piece wheels, 3 piece wheels and monoblock rims in a variety of both traditional step lip, reverse, and concave designs.

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New Ferrari Supercar, LaFerrari, Unveiled at Geneva Auto Show

The fastest Ferrari road car ever has finally debuted at the Geneva International Auto Show. The new Ferrari supercar combines the highest performance V12 engine ever placed in a Ferrari with the Formula One derived hybrid drive system, the HY-KERS. LaFerrari will be produced in only 499 examples and its bodywork is entirely in ultra-light weight carbon fiber. The computer controlled aerodynamics, dynamic control systems and braking are all integrated with the revolutionary hybrid drive system which provides superior levels of low speed torque allowing optimizing the V12 engine at higher speeds. The result leads to a seamless delivery of exceptional power and a maximum speed of 217 mph.

LaFerrari represents the marque's most important project to push the limits of technology on a road car, in order to achieve the best expression of the Prancing Horse's technology enhancements in both GT engineering and Formula One. The new Ferrari supercar features the most extreme performance ever achieved by a Prancing Horse production car as well as the most innovative and advanced technical solutions and will be available to only 499 selected clients in the world.

LaFerrari is the first car produced in Maranello featuring a hybrid technology. Its V12 6262cc engine delivers 800 CV that generates a total of over 960 CV if we add the electric motor additional 163 CV. The new Ferrari Supercar is the most efficient and high performance Ferrari ever built, mainly thanks to one of the most technological enhancements o represented by the new HY-KERS, a system that provides maximum incorporation between the electric motor and the V12 engine, impeccably mixing maximum efficiency with extreme performance. The high levels of torque delivered at low revs by the electric motor optimize the performances of the internal combustion engine at higher revs, while also securing a maximum torque peak of over 900 Nm. A solution that did not increase the car wheelbase or dimensions but that contributed, instead, to lower its gravity center.

The Formula One dual-clutch gearbox is joined with the electric motor allowing reducing weight and optimizing the overall car dimensions. Lastly, the Ferrari HY-KERS system was designed to be modular and flexible so it can be applied to other Ferrari models in the future.

The new electric motor was coincided with High Specific Power Density technology to allow a drastically volume and weight reduction compare to available torque as well as performance easily equivalent to those of the Formula One car, since both features the same efficiency and torque density.

As every Ferrari, the new 458 Spider and its coupe version the Ferrari 458 Italia have a truly unique design approach and technology innovations to achieve indisputable performance and driving experience under all weather conditions. Inquiry about the new Ferrari California today. Only available at Authorized Ferrari dealerships, such as Beverly Hills Ferrari.

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The New Porsche 911 Carbon Fiber VRT Aero Kit With COR Wheels

In the performance car world, having more power from your engine is a key factor when it comes to improving a car's acceleration and overall performance. One of the major factors that is often overlooked by enthusiasts is the use of proper aerodynamic body work and the reduction of weight in key areas. These two methods of modifying a car can improve the overall performance of a car in terms of acceleration, handling, speed, braking, and even fuel economy. One aftermarket car tuning company designed a special body kit for the 997-generation Porsche 911 model that accomplishing both of these goals thanks to its lightweight
construction. Called the VRT, the package includes both front and rear carbon fiber body work along with new lightweight forged COR wheels and gives the Porsche 911 a new, more muscular look as well.

The entire body kit is manufactured using an advanced autoclave technique that creates a very strong construction, coupled with an extremely light weight. The process ensures that the carbon fiber is lighter than most aluminum and steel components by up to 40 percent, helping to improve the overall performance of the vehicle. Each of the carbon fiber pieces also boast an OEM-quality fitment to ensure that modifications are not required to the standard body work. Even the new COR wheels have been configured to accommodate the factory bolt pattern or central-locking mechanism.

The VRT package first addresses the front aerodynamics of the Porsche 911. A new bumper with spoiler lip features integrated LED lighting along with larger air intakes to feed the front radiators with cool air. The front spoiler also helps to generate downforce at the front axle for better high-speed stability.

Along each side of the Porsche 911 are new side skirts as part of the VRT package. The side skirts help to visually lower the height of the sports car while also redirect air around the new COR wheels to reduce drag. The roof was also given a new carbon fiber replacement that helps to eliminate over 50 lbs. of weight from the highest point on the car for better overall performance. The rear of the 911 features a new bumper with integrated diffuser system and a new spoiler that generates more downforce than the stock spoiler.

To finish the VRT package, customers can choose from an array of three-piece or monoblock COR wheels that are made from lightweight forged aluminum alloy. The wheels help to reduce weight at the hub to improve overall vehicle performance and wear special high performance tires for added grip.

Douglas Cougevan is a contributing writer at COR Wheels. COR Wheels specializes in forged 3 piece wheels and monoblock rims in a variety of both traditional step lip, reverse, and concave designs for sports cars and luxury cars.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Douglas_Cougevan

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