Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2013. Show all posts
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
New Car Review 2013 Audi A4 2 0T quattro tiptronic
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| The 2013 Audi A4 2.0T quattro. |
As weve noted here at TireKicker before, the worst part of a successful car is keeping the ball rolling...doing the freshening needed to keep the car relevant without losing the thread and screwing it all up. Last time around, two and a half years ago, I worried that Audi was letting the magic of the A4 slip away. If they were, they fixed it in a hurry.
The 2013 Audi A4 2.0T quattro is simply tremendous. A car that pulls of the trick of feeling utterly contemporary and timeless at the same time. The timeless thing is important because Audis had the A4 pretty close to perfect for a long time. To wander too far from what has made an A4 an A4 for the past decade or so would be courting disaster.
The 2.0T quattro tiptronic is a 2.0 liter turbocharged inline four, making 211 horsepower....mated to Audis quattro (the lower case "q" is intentional) full-time all-wheel-drive system and the tiptronic (the lower case "t" is also intentional) 8-speed transmission with sport and manual shift modes. Base price: $34,600, and thats a rock-solid price for the car...neither too high nor too low.
Standard equipment includes anti-lock brakes with brake assist, 17-inch 10-spoke wheels on all-season tires, electronic stability control, electromechanical speed-sensitive power steering, a dynamic five-link front suspension, a dynamic trapezoidal-link fully independent rear axle, power glass sunroof, halogen headlights, front and rear foglights, rain and light sensors, heated and powered outside mirrors, leather seating surfaces, a 12-way power drivers seat and an 8-way power passengers seat, automatic climate control, Audi concert radio with premium sound, including AM/FM/SiriusXM/CD, with SD Card, USB and auxilary inputs, and the usual airbags and alarms.
Going small in displacement with the 2-liter engine and an 8-speed transmission delivers strong fuel economy numbers, too...20 city/30 highway.
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| 2013 Audi A4 interior. |
The interior continues to be a best-in-class effort (despite my concerns in 2010)...and our options tended to enhance the time spent at the wheel: The $4,200 Premium Plus package delivered auto-dimming mirrors inside and out, an iPod cable, Bluetooth, a driver information system with trip computer, heated front seats with driver memory, a split-folding rear seatback, HomeLink garage door opener, a three-zone climate control plus Xenon plus headlamps, LED daytime running lights and taillamps, and an upgrade to 18-inch 10-spoke wheels. The car was also treated to polished exhaust tips for $140 and an extra-cost paint job (Monsoon Gray metallic) for $475. With $895 destination charges, the bottom line wound up at $40,310.
Theres no question the Audi A4 lives in a competitive world (the BMW 328i, also packing a 2-liter turbo four is probably its deadliest nemesis), but its hard to imagine a car holding its ground better. If you cross-shop the A4 and the 3-series, itll be personal preference, not a weakness in either vehicle, that will most likely be the deciding factor.
Saturday, May 18, 2013
2013 Ford Fiesta New Face and 1 0 Ecoboost Engines
The Ford Fiesta is already 36 years in our midst and is preparing for a new chapter in his successful career. Tomorrow will be a facelift model unveiled in Amsterdam. During the Go Further event in the Ziggo Dome, a Fiesta on the stage appear more economical than ever before. Aside from the new looks is the biggest innovation because under the hood to find thanks to the EcoBoost engine that we already know from the Ford Focus. The 1.0-liter three-cylinder will likely be available in multiple capacity configurations and provide the best fuel economy in its class, according to Ford.
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| 2013 Ford Fiesta |
Looks
what is most striking about the new Fiesta is no doubt the new grille. The large trapezoidal air intake we already knew of the American Ford Fusion and will soon go debut on the new Mondeo. At the rear, the changes are less rigorous, a custom light unit after everything as it seems to remain. Although detailed pictures yet lack the interior looks completely unchanged from the current model.
Technology
With the advent of the new Ford Fiesta introduces some of its technologies that we already knew from the U.S. market. Ford SYNC is a connectivity system and offers the opportunity to voice calls and to play music, even from devices connected via Bluetooth. With Active City Stop, drivers helped to collisions in the city as well as possible to prevent premature brake pedal at low speeds. Finally, it also introduces Ford MyKey, a system for parents to take their cars to limit if their children ride. For example, a maximum speed can be adjusted, but there is also a limit on the volume of stereo can be set. Moreover, to help the driver, safety and powerful warning signals may not be disabled.
The new Fiesta His public debut will take place at the Paris Motor Show in late September.
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
2013 Mercedes Benz GL Review
The German manufacturer is not new to the SUV segment, since it launched its first model in 1997 and in 2006 appeared the first GL. Since its launch, to this day has sold over 138.240 units in USA (10% of total produced). Turning the U.S. into the largest market for this model. That is why this is not only manufactured in Alabama, was also designed in USA.
Among the equipment included for this generation, stands the Cross Wind Stabilization system (standard), this works together with the EPS (Electronic Stability Program), AIRMATIC and ABS (Adaptive Brake System). This system is activated to help stabilize the vehicle when crosswinds are strong while traveling at 50 mph (80 km / h) or more. This also helps maintain vehicle stability when towing a trailer.
Aesthetically the new GL is recognizable as such, but received major cosmetic updates. Its dimensions were extended slightly, now is 1 "long, 1" wider and 1.5 "high. Was very supportive of chrome parts and elaborate sidelines to get a sophisticated and elegant.
The options available are that AMG is present with a sport appearance package, which brings unique front and rear skirts, prominent front grille and wide fenders.
For those who like a more external "fine" the possibility of opting for an appearance package "design Exclusive" accentuated by chrome detailing.
Inside the Mercedes GL 2013 has room for 7 passengers (3 rows of seats) and access to the 3rd row of seats has been facilitated by the 2nd can be folded easily after pressing a button with the EASY-ENTRY system. Also, the 3rd row can be folded and unfolded electrically from buttons installed in the vertical gate behind or tailgates.
The interior details and finish are impressive. Our test unit had wood veneers with a texture so real that left us happy. The impressive display mounted on the center console can be operated easily, and the images collected by the 4 video cameras installed in each of their perimeters are expressed in a vision "from heaven" which helps to park easily (optional).
Some standard accessories are electrically adjustable controls and climate control for front seats THERMATIC, direct steering system that provides flexibility for the vehicle behind the steering wheel paddles to control the transmission, Quattro permanent 4-wheel drive 4-Matic ; AIRMATIC suspension system, which detects when the vehicle is loaded with extra weight and ensures a constant high level, the Attention Assist system prevents accidents by alerting drivers distracted or lost concentration.
Other additional options available for the GL 2013 are the Night View Assist Plus, which uses an infrared camera in the dark and pack on / off road.
Mercedes-Benz offers three versions of the GL 2013. GL350 Bluetec will have to first ($ 62.400) diesel 3.0-liter V6, 240 HP and 455 lb-ft. It uses 18 miles per gallon in the city and 24 on the highway. It also offers 7.500 pounds of towing capacity.
The second version is a gas GL450 ($ 63.900) with 4.6-liter V8 engine capable of generating 362 HP and 406Lb-Pie, with a fuel consumption of 14 mpg in the city and 19 on the highway.
Finally, the third option is the version GL550 ($ 86.900) that loads a twin-turbo V8 engine of 4.6 liters. This can generate an impressive 429 HP and 516 lb-ft. This takes a little gasoline, from 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 on the road.
Mercedes-Benz announced that very soon we will list the GL55 AMG; this will have a 5.5-liter V8 engine that can produce 550 HP and 560 lb / ft of torque.
In conclusion, it is clear that this new generation of 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL offers a very wide evolution versus the previous generation. The suspension offers a trip AIRMATIC very gentle and intelligent, as this meets the needs of the vehicle depending on terrain.
Mercedes did not stop paying attention to any detail on the inside or out. This is an SUV that families in search of a vehicle ($ 64,000) capable on and off the road, good cargo space, class and style should be considered superior.
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
2013 Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible Tuning
The most interesting of the aerodynamic package 2013 Porsche 991 Carrera S convertible Gemballa is firmly contoured front bumper with three large cooling air intakes and carbon fiber spoiler that give the car a more aggressive face. Along its sides, the curved lines of 2013 991 Carrera S Cabriolet Gemballa are accentuated further by more contoured side sills bearing the eyes to the back re imagined. The painted dark hole stickers, carbon fiber strips between the lights, cuts diffuser exhaust and spoiler Gurney make the car look even lower and wider.
All components of the aerodynamics kit 2013 Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible Gemballa are made of carbon fiber, whether natural appearance or body color. Everything is connected by points of factory assembly. The aerodynamics package starts at? 19 860 (in Germany with VAT), including painting and assembly.
The exhaust system triple in line with sound control activated by the throttle blade itself has a history book of Gemballa. This is the 21st century interpretation of the six exhaust pipes first seen in the Gemballa Avalanche, in 1980. Besides its sound deeper and more meaningful, the lower the weight backpressure the exhaust system by nearly 10 additional HP.
Shorter, improved sport springs that work with the PASM active damping system factory, lower ride height by 20 mm. In combination with the 21-inch Gemballa wheels and GForged wheels, give the car its resolute stance.
Available in "black magic", "bronze" and if you want a glossy finish called "diamond cut", these ultra-light forged alloys weigh less than 20-inch wheels come standard. Prices start at 8,948? Incl. IVA for a set of four in Germany, depending on the combination wheel / tire.
Another unique offering in the aerodynamic kit 2013 Porsche 991 Carrera S Convertible Gemballa is the brake system of high performance developed in collaboration with Brembo. Besides providing shorter braking distances, the system is virtually free of fading.
When open the roof, convertible custom interiors perfectly highlights what a specialty of Gemballa. Customers can have their own custom interior design and handmade parts as couture tailoring.
In this case, the palette of materials and colors available range from the finest Alcatraz leathers selected from the complementary colors of wood, carbon fiber or aluminum high.
Sunday, May 12, 2013
2013 Acura ILX 2 4
2013 Acura ILX 2.4 While the redesigned RDX is a crucial product to compete with luxury compact crossovers, the ILX might be the most important new product for Acura, as a growing number of premium makes are starting to realize the importance of upscale entry-level compact cars. Ironically, this segment was a pivotal part of the brands success in the 1980s and 90s thanks to the Integra, but Acura completely abandoned the genre when it killed off the RSX coupe in 2006. The addition of the ILX not only gives Acura a competitive small car again, it also drops the brands entry price by almost $5,000.
Acuras experiment with niche models has failed. Competing in the luxury car business by filling white space with product just didnt work for the Japanese automaker. In place of slow-selling models like its ZDX and quirky first-gen RDX, the mindset at Acura has recently switched to more conventional products with vastly improved volume potential. The redesigned 2013 RDX, for example, sold almost as many units in 2012 as it did in 2010 and 2011 combined, and the all-new 2013 ILX has sold more units each month – since going on sale in May – than Acura sold in ZDXs and RLs in all of last year.
Like the Honda Civic to which its closely related, the 2013 Acura ILX is offered with three powertrain flavors (base 2.0, ILX 2.4 and Hybrid), and while our First Drive gave us some seat time in the base ILX 2.0, this time we got to spend a full week with the sportier ILX 2.4 – Acuras version of the Civic Si. The ILX is positioned in a weird in-between market that includes premium small cars like the Buick Verano, Audi A3 and Lexus CT, but it also sits at the upper end of some well-equipped non-luxury models like the Ford Focus Titanium. With this in mind, and with keys in hand, we aimed to see how the ILX stacks up against other premium compacts – as well as its predecessors.Despite coming from the same gene pool (and Greensburg, Indiana assembly plant) as the Civic, every element of this Acuras design has been completely changed – from its width to the shape of its roofline. To put it simply, this is no modern-day Cadillac Cimarron. Compared to the Civic Si sedan, the ILX has a slightly shorter overall length, sits lower and is almost two inches wider (including a track that is about a half-inch wider), all of which help give to the ILX sportier proportions; even the rake of the windshield has been changed to give the Acura sedan its own distinct presence. The ILX introduces a more refined design language for the marque, with key elements like the scalloped headlights, raised hood and wide rear haunches, all of which are also present on the 2014 RLX and should be visible on future models, too. One crucial element that Acura nailed (and, boy, did it need to) was its trademark shield grille that now complements the styling of its cars rather than looking like an oversized, metallic beak. Acura has even paid attention to the styling of the engine compartment, using plastic trim to dress it up quite a bit more than what you see under the hood of the Civic Si.
Even more so than the exterior, the cabin of the ILX gives no hint of the cars close relation to the budget-minded Civic, and we think it fits in perfectly with the Acura brand image. A few of the Acura signatures include the dual arched instrument panel; the red, metal-like pushbutton starter; and the clean, straight-forward layout of the switchgear on the center stack. The good news here, of course, is that you can get practically the same interior on this entry-level sedan that youll find on every other current Acura model. This sportier ILX adds a few extra styling bonuses like the contrasting stitching on the leather and the bright aluminum trio of pedals for the driver – the latter of which might be the only interior bits that are directly shared between the ILX and the Civic. Everything from the steering wheel to the knobs and controls to the padded inserts carved out of the door panels make this car feel 100-percent like an Acura. We kept wanting to gripe that the interior didnt look as sporty as the Civic Si, but we had to keep reminding ourselves that an Acura buyer is more likely focused on luxury and technology.
While other ILX models are going after customers looking for either an affordable luxury car or a fuel-efficient hybrid sedan, the 2.4 model finds harmony between sport and luxury. Normally, playing the middle of the field is a good way for a car to make compromises on both ends, but the ILX does a fine job of balancing luxurious comfort with supportive sportiness. For the driver, the steering wheel is the perfect size and thickness for a dual-threat persona, and the real aluminum shifter knob blends elements of high-quality materials with a raw, sports-car like feel. Even the seats feel decently supportive in sharp turns, yet they arent too stiff, which could make long road trips uncomfortable. The comfort and styling might be spot-on for the ILX, but all is not perfect with this sportier versions interior. If any occupants of the ILX have something to complain about, its the rear passengers, who face tighter quarters than in your standard Civic with less headroom and greater than two inches of lost legroom. Cargo space is also down slightly to 12.3 cubic feet from the Civic sedans already-cramped trunk.
Only available with the Premium Package, the ILX 2.4 brings plenty of standard equipment to the table including HID headlights, fog lights, a multi-view rear camera, upgraded audio system and leather seats. That seems like a great start for a sport sedan until you realize that there are no other option packages available on this car. For $24,000, you can get a Civic Si with navigation, but no matter how much you want to spend on the ILX 2.4, navigation is not in your future. With the car seemingly aimed directly at Gen Y buyers, we think this is a huge error in packaging options – especially in a day when many non-luxury, budget-minded B-segment cars offer navigation. So if you want a sporty sedan and cant live without navigation, you either have to step down your performance aspirations with either the base engine or hybrid ILX, or step up to the bigger, heavier and more expensive TSX. All in, the 2013 ILX 2.4 will set you back $30,095 including destination, which is a reasonable price to pay for this cars levels of luxury and performance, especially considering its priced only a little less than the navigation-equipped Buick Verano Turbo that we just recently reviewed.
As much as Acura has done to make the ILX look and feel worlds apart from the plebian Civic, the changes are only skin deep, as all of the good mechanical bits in the ILX 2.4 are carried over almost exactly from the Civic Si. We have to throw in that "almost" because, while the high-revving 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder and six-speed manual gearbox are there, the ILX does not receive the Sis standard limited-slip differential. Still, were not going to argue with the engines 201 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, even though peak horsepower kicks in at a screaming 7,000 rpm. Those cross-shopping this ILX with the Verano Turbo will instantly notice the Acuras 49-horse disadvantage, but much of what this car lacks in power, it makes up for in weight reduction with a 2,978-pound curb weight that comes in around 300 pounds less than the Buick.
Driving the ILX 2.4 introduced us to its decently weighted clutch and short-throw shifter, but as fun as the car was to drive, this isnt a model we want to take to the track. There are only minor tuning differences between the ILX 2.4 and the base models suspension and electric power steering setups, but wed venture a guess that the biggest upgrades the 2.4 has over the other ILX models in terms of handling are its all-season Michelin Pilot HX rubber and slightly larger front brakes.
During our week with the ILX 2.4, the fact that its basically a fancier Civic Si stuck in the back of our heads, but time and again, this Acura impressed us with how much it didnt feel like a sportier version of an entry-level compact. Acuras crew surely deserves the lions share of the credit for this, as the ILX has been given a beefier front stabilizer bar and a quicker ratio for its power steering than the Si. Even the sound quality inside the cabin is more of what wed expect from a luxury car, the result of acoustic glass used for the windshield and the audio systems Active Sound Cancellation.
The ILX 2.4 does bring with it the same fuel economy as its sporty corporate cousin, with official EPA numbers holding steady at 22 miles per gallon city and 31 mpg highway, and our time with the car returned an overall average close to 26 mpg – were guessing that had a lot to do with the fact that the ILX does not come with the see-how-high-you-can-rev-the-engine VTEC power meter thats standard on the Civic Si. Like all other Acura models (and the Civic Si), premium fuel is recommended by the automaker for peak performance.
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| 2013 Acura ILX front view |
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| 2013 Acura ILX front 34 view |
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| 2013 Acura ILX rear view |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 front seats |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 grille |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 headlight |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 interior |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 rear seats |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 taillight |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 trunk |
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| 2013 Acura ILX 2.4 wheel |
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| 2013 Acura ILX engine |
Acuras experiment with niche models has failed. Competing in the luxury car business by filling white space with product just didnt work for the Japanese automaker. In place of slow-selling models like its ZDX and quirky first-gen RDX, the mindset at Acura has recently switched to more conventional products with vastly improved volume potential. The redesigned 2013 RDX, for example, sold almost as many units in 2012 as it did in 2010 and 2011 combined, and the all-new 2013 ILX has sold more units each month – since going on sale in May – than Acura sold in ZDXs and RLs in all of last year.
Like the Honda Civic to which its closely related, the 2013 Acura ILX is offered with three powertrain flavors (base 2.0, ILX 2.4 and Hybrid), and while our First Drive gave us some seat time in the base ILX 2.0, this time we got to spend a full week with the sportier ILX 2.4 – Acuras version of the Civic Si. The ILX is positioned in a weird in-between market that includes premium small cars like the Buick Verano, Audi A3 and Lexus CT, but it also sits at the upper end of some well-equipped non-luxury models like the Ford Focus Titanium. With this in mind, and with keys in hand, we aimed to see how the ILX stacks up against other premium compacts – as well as its predecessors.Despite coming from the same gene pool (and Greensburg, Indiana assembly plant) as the Civic, every element of this Acuras design has been completely changed – from its width to the shape of its roofline. To put it simply, this is no modern-day Cadillac Cimarron. Compared to the Civic Si sedan, the ILX has a slightly shorter overall length, sits lower and is almost two inches wider (including a track that is about a half-inch wider), all of which help give to the ILX sportier proportions; even the rake of the windshield has been changed to give the Acura sedan its own distinct presence. The ILX introduces a more refined design language for the marque, with key elements like the scalloped headlights, raised hood and wide rear haunches, all of which are also present on the 2014 RLX and should be visible on future models, too. One crucial element that Acura nailed (and, boy, did it need to) was its trademark shield grille that now complements the styling of its cars rather than looking like an oversized, metallic beak. Acura has even paid attention to the styling of the engine compartment, using plastic trim to dress it up quite a bit more than what you see under the hood of the Civic Si.
Even more so than the exterior, the cabin of the ILX gives no hint of the cars close relation to the budget-minded Civic, and we think it fits in perfectly with the Acura brand image. A few of the Acura signatures include the dual arched instrument panel; the red, metal-like pushbutton starter; and the clean, straight-forward layout of the switchgear on the center stack. The good news here, of course, is that you can get practically the same interior on this entry-level sedan that youll find on every other current Acura model. This sportier ILX adds a few extra styling bonuses like the contrasting stitching on the leather and the bright aluminum trio of pedals for the driver – the latter of which might be the only interior bits that are directly shared between the ILX and the Civic. Everything from the steering wheel to the knobs and controls to the padded inserts carved out of the door panels make this car feel 100-percent like an Acura. We kept wanting to gripe that the interior didnt look as sporty as the Civic Si, but we had to keep reminding ourselves that an Acura buyer is more likely focused on luxury and technology.
While other ILX models are going after customers looking for either an affordable luxury car or a fuel-efficient hybrid sedan, the 2.4 model finds harmony between sport and luxury. Normally, playing the middle of the field is a good way for a car to make compromises on both ends, but the ILX does a fine job of balancing luxurious comfort with supportive sportiness. For the driver, the steering wheel is the perfect size and thickness for a dual-threat persona, and the real aluminum shifter knob blends elements of high-quality materials with a raw, sports-car like feel. Even the seats feel decently supportive in sharp turns, yet they arent too stiff, which could make long road trips uncomfortable. The comfort and styling might be spot-on for the ILX, but all is not perfect with this sportier versions interior. If any occupants of the ILX have something to complain about, its the rear passengers, who face tighter quarters than in your standard Civic with less headroom and greater than two inches of lost legroom. Cargo space is also down slightly to 12.3 cubic feet from the Civic sedans already-cramped trunk.
Only available with the Premium Package, the ILX 2.4 brings plenty of standard equipment to the table including HID headlights, fog lights, a multi-view rear camera, upgraded audio system and leather seats. That seems like a great start for a sport sedan until you realize that there are no other option packages available on this car. For $24,000, you can get a Civic Si with navigation, but no matter how much you want to spend on the ILX 2.4, navigation is not in your future. With the car seemingly aimed directly at Gen Y buyers, we think this is a huge error in packaging options – especially in a day when many non-luxury, budget-minded B-segment cars offer navigation. So if you want a sporty sedan and cant live without navigation, you either have to step down your performance aspirations with either the base engine or hybrid ILX, or step up to the bigger, heavier and more expensive TSX. All in, the 2013 ILX 2.4 will set you back $30,095 including destination, which is a reasonable price to pay for this cars levels of luxury and performance, especially considering its priced only a little less than the navigation-equipped Buick Verano Turbo that we just recently reviewed.
As much as Acura has done to make the ILX look and feel worlds apart from the plebian Civic, the changes are only skin deep, as all of the good mechanical bits in the ILX 2.4 are carried over almost exactly from the Civic Si. We have to throw in that "almost" because, while the high-revving 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder and six-speed manual gearbox are there, the ILX does not receive the Sis standard limited-slip differential. Still, were not going to argue with the engines 201 horsepower and 170 pound-feet of torque, even though peak horsepower kicks in at a screaming 7,000 rpm. Those cross-shopping this ILX with the Verano Turbo will instantly notice the Acuras 49-horse disadvantage, but much of what this car lacks in power, it makes up for in weight reduction with a 2,978-pound curb weight that comes in around 300 pounds less than the Buick.
Driving the ILX 2.4 introduced us to its decently weighted clutch and short-throw shifter, but as fun as the car was to drive, this isnt a model we want to take to the track. There are only minor tuning differences between the ILX 2.4 and the base models suspension and electric power steering setups, but wed venture a guess that the biggest upgrades the 2.4 has over the other ILX models in terms of handling are its all-season Michelin Pilot HX rubber and slightly larger front brakes.
During our week with the ILX 2.4, the fact that its basically a fancier Civic Si stuck in the back of our heads, but time and again, this Acura impressed us with how much it didnt feel like a sportier version of an entry-level compact. Acuras crew surely deserves the lions share of the credit for this, as the ILX has been given a beefier front stabilizer bar and a quicker ratio for its power steering than the Si. Even the sound quality inside the cabin is more of what wed expect from a luxury car, the result of acoustic glass used for the windshield and the audio systems Active Sound Cancellation.
2013 Acura ILX 2.4
The ILX 2.4 does bring with it the same fuel economy as its sporty corporate cousin, with official EPA numbers holding steady at 22 miles per gallon city and 31 mpg highway, and our time with the car returned an overall average close to 26 mpg – were guessing that had a lot to do with the fact that the ILX does not come with the see-how-high-you-can-rev-the-engine VTEC power meter thats standard on the Civic Si. Like all other Acura models (and the Civic Si), premium fuel is recommended by the automaker for peak performance.
2013 Acura ILX 2.4
Acuras reboot of the near-premium compact car might not be as enthusiast-oriented as the old Integra, but rather than attempting to recreate what has become an iconic model, Acura has focused on offering a broader range of model choices, which ought to help attract more new buyers to the brand whether they are stepping up from a Honda or trading in another luxury make. With its limited scope (one powertrain and no options), were not sure what chords the ILX 2.4 will strike with consumers, but we just cant knock a car that brings a luxuriously appointed sporty sedan to the sub-$30,000 price bracket.2013 Acura ILX 2.4 The new ILX is probably not going to be a hot option for the tuner crowd like the Integra turned out to be, but what it does offer car shoppers is a well-priced offering for buyers now and a good look at the future direction of Acura products down the road. Whats perhaps most surprising is that Acura has managed to go mainstream without selling out, and were looking forward to the day when we pit this ILX 2.4 against the Verano Turbo in a proper comparison test.
Sunday, April 28, 2013
2013 Fiat 500 Abarth overviews
This time we tried the Abarth which undoubtedly is the most fun model between variations of the Fiat 500, as well as offering its unique silhouette of European compact, has a sporting soul thirsts for speed and excitement on the road.
Its hard to go unnoticed in the street with the Fiat 500 Abarth. Despite its tiny body, stolen glances wherever you go with white and red accents that accentuate its character.
The Fiat 500 Abarth has an aggressive attitude, it seems that the scorpion out of your logo wants to bite down the street and this makes handling very entertaining. With its five-speed manual transmission coupled to a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder produces very pleasant sensations, is very light and its acceleration is consistent enough to respond at times to be tested without showing signs significant fatigue. The boot leaves a feeling of solidity and bringing depth responds well in corners with surprising grip.
The position of the shifter is somewhat uncomfortable for some because it is located just above the conventional; it feels a little weird at the time of executing the changes looking better acceleration pulse but takes getting used to and nothing else. Also the location of some controls to the right of the driver is somewhat uncomfortable as in the case of the buttons to open or close the windows, lock the doors and lever to adjust the position of the chair. Typical European car!
The power that expresses the Fiat 500 Abarth is 160 horsepower with 170 pounds per foot of torque, enough to move with great ease the body of a vehicle as light as this. The engine sound that expresses a striking snoring out for some nice results quickly and associate a sports car, but for others the sound level does not reach such a high distinction and not so impressive.
The base model of the Fiat 500 Sport has an output of 101 HP. The difference mainly in horses in the presence of the turbo to help increase its power greatly. For Abarth manual transmission is the only one offered. This combination of power and control passing mark achieves 0-60 mph in about 7.1 seconds, nearly 3 seconds faster than the Sport model. The Abarth, unlike the Sport, has an electronic differential lock, adjustable stability control and a stiffer suspension and little complacent with the imperfections of the road, you have to carefully navigate the bumps in the road to avoid surprises in the cockpit that can be very uncomfortable.
The interior of this compact Italian is as picturesque as its logo. The cabin inspires praise to submit details with leather finish where hands embroidery accenting obvious personality. The whiteboard is of a lower quality plastic but combined with leather details produce a good visual impact in the cabin. The address is coated with leather embroidery which produces a pleasurable feeling to the touch of handling it.
Obviously the interior is small, four people can fit a little tight, and this is most evident by the reduced legroom and headroom. The very tall passengers will find it difficult to enter or exit the cab. For the driver can say that sometimes hard to find the most comfortable driving position. Also the position of the Tom Tom navigation system above board can be a visual obstruction for which handles even very distracting, the good thing is that you can remove with the push of a button but I must admit its hard to find a place which keep you because storage sites are not very generous.
The main "enemy" of the Fiat 500 Abarth is the Mini Cooper S, which offers a bit more horsepower, 17 more horsepower to be precise and dimensionally upper 6 inches of wheelbase and 87 pounds heavier. In terms of style and design, the buyer has two options in front very interesting if we look at these two models only. The Mini is still one consented in recent years but the challenge proposed FIAT 500 Abarth rogue style, fresh and contemporary is to take into account. The most loyal fans of the Italian brand, anxiously waiting his return to America, will have no problem in deciding which model will occupy their garages.
In terms of fuel economy the Fiat 500 Abarth has averages 31 mpg combined. The base price is $ 22.700. The unit we tested with all its options, including 17-inch wheels, leather, special package of safety and convenience, Tom Tom navigation system and power sunroof to name a few, can cost around $ 26,000 U.S. dollars.
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