Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Mini Cooper: Mini Mini rumored to be in the works



Post by: Automotive

Wolfgang Armbrecht, head of BMW's Mini brand recently hinted that a smaller small car may be in the works. In an interview with Germany's Financial Times Deutschland, Ampbrecht admitted that Mini may develop a small car for parent company BMW. We've actually heard these rumors before when talk sprang up about the potential for a BMW 0 Series.

If the thought of a Mini Mini crossed with BMW parts makes you excited, you're not alone. Who could say 'No' to the Ultimate Go-Karting Machine? As of yet however, there are no reports of a build timeline or potential specs, but a glimpse of what's to come is said to be earmarked for next month's Detroit Auto Show.

source: Mini Cooper Press

Jeep Compass 2011



Post by: Automotive

New, Redesigned 2011 Jeep® Compass: Sophisticated New Styling, Unsurpassed Capability and Fuel Economy and Loads of Standard Features

- New 2011 Jeep® Compass is beautifully redesigned, reflecting the styling cues of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee
- Unsurpassed compact SUV 4x4 fuel economy (28 mpg) and off-road capability, and innovative interior features combine to provide tremendous value
- Upgraded interior features soft touch points and high quality materials
- Exceptional ride and handling performance in all weather conditions is the result of upgraded steering and suspension systems for 2011
- 2011 Jeep Compass features more than 30 safety and security features, including standard electronic stability control, electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist and side-curtain air bags that cover all rows
- 2011 Jeep Compass now offers Trail Rated® 4x4 capability with Freedom Drive II® Off-Road package
Compass joins Jeep Patriot as most capable in compact-SUV segment


Auburn Hills, Mich. - Offering unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy and off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment, the new 2011 Jeep® Compass features a stunning new sophisticated design, with cues coming directly from the brand’s premium icon, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Coupled with a host of interior refinements, and improved ride and handling characteristics in all conditions – courtesy of upgraded steering and suspension systems – the new Jeep Compass offers a unique blend of premium styling, capability, efficiency and value that is unmatched in the compact-SUV segment.

“With the new 2011 Jeep Compass, we’ve applied the premium design cues of our award-winning new Grand Cherokee,” said Mike Manley, President and CEO — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “Combined with new interior appointments, and refinements to the suspension and steering systems, Jeep Compass provides consumers the ultimate combination of styling, capability, fuel economy, efficiency, safety and value in the important compact-SUV segment.”

Delivering the packaging and interior flexibility of an SUV with the performance, handling, fuel economy and price of a compact car, the new 2011 Jeep Compass also boasts more than 30 safety and security features, including standard side-curtain air bags, electronic stability program (ESC), electronic roll mitigation, Hill-start Assist (with manual transmission), side curtain air bags for all rows and available front-seat-mounted side air bags.

Design

The new 2011 Jeep Compass has a distinct family resemblance to the all-new, premium 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

With a new hood, new front fenders, new fascia and new headlamps as well as a new grille that has been detailed with a small dose of chrome surrounding the traditional seven slots found on all Jeep vehicles, the new face of the Compass features a more serious, yet sophisticated, appearance. Forward lighting performance is improved with the use of quad reflector headlamps, and the fog lamps are now high output projector lamps. Adding an element of muscle, the hood has been enhanced with a subtle power bulge. The result is a vehicle that projects an attitude that is much more serious and conveys the Compass’ capability in all weather and driving conditions.

New brightwork throughout the exterior lends an upscale touch without compromising the off-road performance of the Compass. A band of protective cladding has been added for 2011, serving to fend off debris when driving in challenging weather conditions or off-road, and providing a new appearance.

This trend continues with enhancements to the rear of the Compass. A new rear fascia, new body-color rear spoiler and subtle, upscale touches including new LED taillamps and on the Limited model, bright trim on the step pad and a chrome exhaust tip adorn the new 2011 Jeep Compass. Topping it off, a new set of roof rails were designed with a slimmed down appearance and a small amount of brightwork. The 2011 Compass sports new, standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, and 18-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels are available on Limited models.

Interior upgrades for the 2011 Jeep Compass include new soft touch front-door trim panels with a padded upper surface; a new center armrest; a new Jeep steering wheel with integrated controls that allow the driver to operate the radio, cruise control, available handsfree phone and other vehicle functions while keeping their hands on the wheel; new cloth interior with premium cloth bucket seats in the front; standard speed control on all models; new backlighting of door switches, door locks, windows and power mirror controls.

The new 2011 Jeep Compass offers an array of clever features consumers will appreciate whether commuting to work, driving in challenging weather conditions, exploring new trails or out-of-the-way places. Uconnect media center with iPod interface, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, navigation with SIRIUS Travel Link, power sunroof, a premium audio system with nine Boston Acoustic speakers, illuminated cup holders, liftgate speakers and fold-flat rear seats are some of the available cool features that make the Compass the perfect compact SUV, enabling consumers to enjoy any adventure.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is packed with standard features that provide value and convenience for drivers and passengers. Standard features include air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power/heated exterior mirrors, keyless entry, aluminum wheels, fog lamps, cruise control and sunscreen glass.

New for 2011 the Jeep Compass offers an All-weather Capability Group option which includes Goodyear 17-inch all-terrain tires, all-season floor mats, daytime running headlamps, engine block heater and tow hooks.

Segment-leading Capability

The 2011 Jeep Compass offers customers unsurpassed 4x4 off-road capability with Jeep Freedom Drive II. The new Jeep Compass also boasts a retuned suspension for 2011, with higher spring and damping rates, added rebound springs, and an increased diameter of the rear sway bar. Despite these numerous capability features, the 2011 Jeep Compass boasts unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy in its segment.

Jeep Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Compass also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.

Freedom Drive I is an available full-time, active four-wheel-drive system with lock mode designed to give drivers year-round assurance with the ability to handle rough weather and low-traction conditions. This active four-wheel-drive system is recommended for daily use, including slick conditions that come with rain and light snow. Freedom Drive I also features a lockable center coupling, giving drivers the ability to put the Jeep Compass in four-wheel-drive lock mode to handle deep snow, sand and other low-traction surfaces.

The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated® capability in Compass form. The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a second-generation continuously variable transaxle with low range (CVT2L) that engages when the off-road mode is activated, 17-inch all-terrain tires and aluminum wheels, a one-inch raised ride height, a full-size spare tire, skid plates, tow hooks, fog lamps and manual seat height adjuster. The available Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is recommended for moderate off-road situations that include steep grades, occasional wheel lift and rock or log climbing.

The 2011 Jeep Compass’ powertrain is designed to deliver world-class performance in all weather conditions, fuel economy and refinement, all at an affordable, value-packed price.

Compass features a standard 2.0-liter World Engine for the Compass and Latitude models that provides 158 horsepower (117 kW) and 141 lb.-ft. (191 N•m) of torque coupled with the continuously variable transmission (CVT2), and delivers unsurpassed 23 mpg in the city, and 29 mpg on the highway when mated to the five-speed manual transmission.

The proven 2.4-liter World Engine produces 172-horsepower and 165 lb.-ft. of torque and is available on all models and standard on the Limited. This 2.4-liter World Engine has dual Variable Valve Timing (VVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts, which helps optimize the torque curve at all speeds and produces more power, better fuel economy and smoother, quieter operation than engines without dual VVT. Dual VVT is a technology typically not available on vehicles sold in the United States in the Jeep Compass’ price class. The Jeep Compass’ 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a five-speed manual transaxle in front-wheel drive configuration delivers unsurpassed 23 miles per gallon (mpg) in the city, and 29 mpg on the highway.

Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle on the entry-level Compass and a CVT that is available on the Compass and standard on the Latitude and Limited models. The Compass’ CVT2 is a second-generation CVT that Chrysler Group engineers calibrated for pleasing engine response and precise ratio control. CVT2 contributes to a fuel economy improvement of 6–8 percent compared with a traditional four-speed automatic. The Compass CVT2 also improves vehicle performance compared with a traditional automatic transaxle because of optimized gear ratios, especially in the 30–60 mph range during passing maneuvers.

The 2011 Jeep Compass also provides up to 2,000 lbs. of towing capacity.

Jeep Compass Model Lineup

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Compass, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4x4 system with low-range capability.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is available in the following exterior colors: Blackberry Pearl Coat, Bright Silver Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Brilliant Black Crystal Clear Coat, Deep Cherry Red Crystal Clear Coat Deep Charcoal Gray (limited availability) and Mineral Gray Pearl Coat (late availability).

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the new 2011 Jeep Compass models will begin to arrive in Jeep showrooms in December 2010.


About Jeep

Built on nearly 70 years of legendary heritage, Jeep is the authentic SUV with class-leading capability, craftsmanship and versatility for people who seek extraordinary journeys. The Jeep brand delivers an open invitation to live life to the fullest by offering a full line of vehicles that continue to provide owners with a sense of security to handle any journey with confidence.

The 2011 Jeep vehicle lineup includes Compass, Grand Cherokee, Liberty, Patriot, Wrangler and Wrangler Unlimited. To meet consumer demand around the world, all Jeep models are sold outside North America and all are available in right-hand drive and with gasoline and diesel powertrain options. Chrysler Group LLC sells and services vehicles in approximately 120 countries around the world.

source : Jeep Press

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

New Lexus RX450h 2011



Post by: Automotive


Lexus RX450h has been completely redesigned for 2010, and Lexus has introduced minor changes to the year 2011. Over the years, Lexus has been setting the standard for the crossover segment, Lexus decided that messing with success is not the way to go.

The new RX is grown in almost all its dimensions than previous generations, but the end result is a better looking vehicle overall. While the previous generation RX looked bubble, the new RX has sharp bends and its maximum and then give an attractive appearance.

The new RX headlights, taillights and grille are much more aerodynamic and a spoiler mounted on the roof gives it a sporty look. Lexus identifies with hybrid formations Logos blue-trimmed, tinted headlights, tail lights and our test vehicle also came with 19-inch wheels. We think Lexus has done a great job in refining the exterior of the 2011 RX450h and it's really a vehicle other than looking over the competition.


Lexus 450h shares the inside with his brother, non-hybrid, the only difference is the display that shows information about hybrid. Like any other Lexus, the interior quality is first rate and the RX is loaded with high-tech options such as heads-up display, CD changer, navigation with Bluetooth audio and XM Satellite Radio. The best thing about the RX is the Remote Controller that really puts the Touch iDrive and similar systems to shame. We played with the controller and were amazed to see how simple life can be.

RX 450h is powered by 3.5 liter V6 is carried over from last year's model with the combined production of 295 horses. The Atkinson cycle V6 with the help of electric motors hour increases fuel economy by about 10% over the previous generation RX. Lexus engineers have mounted a DC 288V Ni-MH battery under the rear seats that receives power from two or three engines, depending on FWD or AWD configurations.

Overall, we believe that Lexus has really learned this segment of the crossover and now with a hybrid variant are a force to reckon with. It 's true that there is someone available for Highlander Hybrid does not want to spend more than $ 51K, but Lexus has a cult following. In this day and age we all pay for the brand and Lexus RX450h is no different. So if you have a small family and are cautious green then RX450h is a perfect purchase. It is a crossover of performance, but anyone in the market for a hybrid is well aware of this fact. We really think that Lexus RX450h is for someone who cares about energy efficiency, yet still want luxury - Lexus RX450h is exactly that!
source: Lexus Press