Auto Car Lease

Bentley Considering a Shooting Brake Model

2010-06-02T22:32:00.000-07:00

Car and Driver had a chance to sit down with VW board member Stuart McCullough. In regards to future Bentley models, he said, "We have an idea in the back of our minds that we may yet bring to market."

Of course, this immediately led to whisperings and theories of a possible Continental Shooting Brake like Carozzeria Touring Superleggera's Flying Star (see here) that was revealed at this year's edition of the Geneva Motor Show.

While this would be cool, the magazine hits the nail on the head: how would they justify another model on an older platform versus derivatives of the new Mulsanne?

If, however, it were actually offered, it could be as an extremely-limited-number send-off for the Continental range before some new models show up. Ferrari's decided to do its own coachbuilding, so why not Bentley? Tell us what you think in the comments section below.

By Phil Alex

Via: C&D

*Photos: Carozzeria Touring Superleggera's Bentley Flying Star

Maybach 62

2010-04-24T09:35:00.000-07:00

2011 Maybach 62 – Click either image for high-res image gallery

Reports of Maybach's demise may have been slightly exaggerated – for the time being, anyway. The ultra-premium Daimler brand has released updated versions of its range, which is essentially the same vehicle with different configurations.

For MY2011, the Maybach 57, 57S, 62 and 62S feature a handful of cosmetic, mechanical and interior equipment upgrades. The exterior benefits from a new grille (now different between the standard and S models), hood, tail lights and door mirrors, which – in addition to refreshing the limo's looks – also reduces wind noise for a quieter ride. Underneath the new hood, meanwhile, Daimler has optimized the V12 engine for marginally reduced emissions and fuel consumption, and while the standard engine stays pegged at 542 horsepower, the S version gets an 18-horse boost to 630.

Inside there's a partition to separate passengers from chauffeur, and the reclining seats previously available only on the longer 62 model can now be fitted on the passenger side in the rear of the 57 as well. The 62 can be fitted with an electro-chromatic tinting glass roof panel, and customers can also specify a 19-inch rear screen instead of the individual 9.5-inch monitors, on which they can view camera feeds from around the vehicle. The perfume atomizer from the Zeppelin model can also be ordered on the rest of the range now as well, and there's available wireless internet and seat piping either braided or embedded with Swarovski crystals.

The revised Maybach range debuts this Friday at the Beijing Motor Show, where Bentley is also presenting a pair of special editions, Volkswagen its new Phaeton and Audi the long-wheelbase A8 L. If we didn't know better, we'd think the Chinese had a thing for limos. Make the jump for a promo video.

2011 Maybach range

Why Should I Worry About Credit Fraud?

2010-03-24T22:05:00.000-07:00

If you have never lost a credit card or had one stolen from you, you may feel like credit fraud is not your problem.

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But the truth is, credit fraud affects us all. When criminals obtain goods or cash through credit fraud, it is the credit card issuer that bears the burden of the loss--a cost it covers by charging its cardholders higher fees and interest rates.

Credit Fraud Poses a Growing Problem
Law enforcement officials and consumer protection organizations such as the Public Interest Research Group and Privacy Rights Clearinghouse all report that credit fraud is on the rise--especially in one of its most insidious forms: identity theft. That's why it's important to check your credit report regularly. Check it for free here!

There are several different kinds of credit fraud, and some of the most threatening involve much more than a stolen credit card. A lost or stolen card may be what we think of first when we think of someone using our credit--a fraud we know we can halt by reporting the card lost or stolen.

But what if someone were using your credit while your card sat safely in your pocket or purse?

Credit Fraud Can Occur Without the Victim's Knowledge
A stolen account number can often be just as effective for a criminal as a stolen credit card, especially if information such as the expiration date or your billing address is also available to him or her. You may not know someone is using your account until you notice charges or cash advances you did not make on your monthly statement.

Criminals can steal credit account numbers in many different ways, such as collecting them in telephone or Internet scams, copying them from credit cards when the owner isn't looking, or gathering them from discarded receipts or account statements in people's trash.

Gathering information from people's trash, also known as "dumpster diving," is also effective for criminals intending to perpetrate the even more hard-to-catch identity fraud.

"Identity theft" describes when someone uses your personal information, such as your name and Social Security number, to either take over current credit accounts or open new ones using your identity. An identity thief might also rent an apartment, take a job, or even commit crimes using your name, but the identity fraud generally involves using your good credit rating without your knowledge.

Tactics for stealing your identity include stealing personal information and then using it to apply for credit or, sometimes, stealing preapproved credit card offers from your trash and sending them in with a change of address.

A clever identity thief can use your name and information for months without your knowledge, sometimes making the minimum payments on any accounts s/he opens so as to keep that credit line available longer. You might not find out what is happening until s/he uses the credit to its maximum limit and then stops paying, causing the creditor to send collectors out to find you to settle the debt.

Checking your credit report regularly is one of the few ways to catch identity theft before it goes that far. Find out how to check it for free. Just as reviewing your credit card statement can reveal charges you did not make, reviewing your credit report can reveal activity on accounts you don't use or new accounts you did not open, alerting you to the possibility of identity theft.

Take Steps to Protect Yourself and Minimize the Costs of Credit Fraud

* Safeguard your credit cards just as you would cash.

* Reduce the number of cards you carry; just one or two are sufficient for everyday use.

* Minimize the amount of personal information a criminal can steal. Don't carry your Social Security card, birth certificate or passport with you on a routine basis.

* Keep a list of all of your credit cards, including account numbers, expiration dates, and issuer phone numbers, so that you can notify creditors quickly in case of theft or loss.

* Sign any new cards as soon as you receive them.

* If one of your credit card bills is late, call the card issuer's customer service number immediately. Make sure that your bill has not been diverted to a different address.

* Review your statements carefully each month to make sure all charges are accurate.

* Report billing errors and lost or stolen cards to your credit card issuer immediately.

* Never give anyone a card number or other personal information over the telephone unless you initiated the call.

* Shred preapproved credit card offers, credit card receipts, copies of airline tickets, travel itineraries, and anything else that displays your credit card information before putting them in the trash.

* Check your credit report for accuracy at least once a year.

Everything you wanted to know about the vehicle tax

2010-03-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

Everything you know about the car tax - Everything you know about car tax
There are seven tax bands scholars who determine the price

Confused about the car tax? We tell you everything you need to know about the load on your vehicle.

We impose the tax if the tax bands, which are also exemptions can easily understand how the car tax.

See our slideshow Budget 2008

What is legal?

The law states that if you or keep a vehicle on a highway, you need a valid tax re-release on the subject. If a registered owner of a car, it is your responsibility to pay taxes.

It's simple - if you do not see using up-to-date tax disc, you will not be able to drive your car.

There are exceptions to this rule, which will be discussed later. But now, how much it costs the tax specific to your engine? It depends on at least one of three factors:

1. How old is the vehicle.
2. What is the cylinder.
3. How much CO2 they emit.

Pre-1973 vehicles

If you're lucky, a classic car before 1 Register in January 1973, you will be exempt from road tax. Some vehicles are excluded, the Morris Minor and the Cadillac Coupe de Ville.

Cars manufactured from 1973-2001

For vehicles between 1 Registered in January 1973 and March 1, 2001, the tax is calculated according to the movement:

• Vehicles under 1549cc cost £ 115 per year.
• Cars over 1549cc cost £ 180 per year.

On newer vehicles, there are seven tax bands scholars who determine prices.

The tapes are produced by the amount of carbon dioxide your car - with the lowest emissions, which made the least tax cost.

However, Band G only applies to vehicles registered after March 23, 2006.

Tie

CO2 emissions (g / km)

Costs

Sample

A

Up to 100

N / A

Seat Ibiza Ecomotive

B

101-120

£ 35

Toyota Prius Hybrid

C

121-150

£ 120

Citroen C5 1.6-liter diesel

D

151-165

£ 145

Peugeot 307 1.4-liter gasoline engine

E

166-185

£ 170

Ford Mondeo 1.8i Sedan-gallon gasoline

F

More than 186

£ 210

BMW 5 Series Estate 3.0-liter diesel

G

Dan 226

£ 400

Sedan Jaguar X-Type 2.0-liter gasoline

You can use the brackets for all cars look the car side of the government.

Moreover, the vehicle Certification Agency, this handy page that you calculate the tax on the manufacturer and model of your car can have.

It is a common misconception that the band G vehicles are cars or simply super big engines such as minivans and off-roaders - not true. Their three-liter Mondeo or typical Impreza WRX sedan will also fall in this category to be considered.

Exceptions

There are legal ways to avoid paying state taxes, but make sure you experience one of the first requirements:

• You can have a box of a vehicle emits less than 100 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
• They Statutory Off Road Notification on or Sorn page on the DVLA vehicle licensing only when your car will not be used or kept on the road for 12 months.
• You are a driver with a disability exemption certificate DLA404.
• You have a form and receive a WPA442 War Pensioners' Mobility Supplement.
• You can drive an electric car operated.
• a bio-fuel or hybrid vehicle that you have less CO2 emissions of 100 k / m.

How to Apply

To request a new tax disc, make sure that all these elements:

1. The reference number of your V11 reminder form or the code of your V5 registration.
2. A valid regulations.
3. Payment.
4. The registration of the vehicle.
5. Valid insurance.

You can directly call the DVLA on 0870 850 4444 or visit the website and follow the instructions to apply.

You can pop into your local post office and ask for an application via mail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if I forgot when my car tax expired?
A: A completed V11 reminder be sent to you three weeks to expire before the expiry of your current tax disc.

Q: Are there changes in the tax brackets?
R: The maximum price band G car tax rise from £ 300 to £ 400 on 1 April 2008.

Q: Can I load my band?
A: Yes. Tax bracket in the car can change if an amendment or change of fuel transported. This requires an exchange of tax-CD, to complete a V70.

Q: How long tax brackets?
A: The tax disc can be either for a period of six months or be acquired over a period of one years.

Q: I am going on vacation. Do I still pay taxes?
A: Yes. Note that the vehicle is always turned off when abroad. It is a good idea to renew your tax early, if so, what is up to two months before the expiry date. You can always ask someone to renew it for you.

Q: What happens if I move or exchange number?
A: Always tell the DVLA or to change your personal information.

Q. I got my tax deduction? What should I do?
A: If your drive is misplaced, badly damaged or discolored, a V20 form for a replacement.

USED CAR ADVICE: Ford Territory SX and SY

2010-03-08T19:36:00.000-08:00

The Ford Territory was big news when it went on sale in May 2004. Back then the term 'softroader' had not yet been coined. The closest vehicle to this interesting new concept was Germany's BMW X5 and Japan's Toyota Kluger, both of which arrived at the turn of the century.

But nothing like it had been built in Australia and the Territory rewrote the rulebook on local automotive norms. It picked up the coveted Wheels Car of the Year award in 2004 -- the first time in the magazine's history the gong has gone to a 4WD.

Although Holden had beaten Ford to market by releasing an all-wheel-drive version of the Commodore wagon called the Adventra in October 2003, the Ford Territory was Australia's first, new-from-the-ground-up softroader. It remains so today.

Territory was designed from a clean sheet of paper [Ed: almost, it had to be based on Falcon] for families who wanted the functionality of a large four-wheel-drive wagon -- but with car-like handling and, hopefully, car-like running costs.

Ford was instantly onto a winner. Sales for the first few years were strong as buyers migrated from conventional wagons, people movers, and commercial-style four-wheel-drives (such as the Toyota Prado, Mitsubishi Pajero and others).

The Territory immediately shot to second place in the medium-SUV market in 2004 despite being on sale for only the last seven months of that year. It then went on to become Australia's biggest selling medium-SUV for the next three years (2005 to 2007).

A clever tactical move, Ford offered Territory customers the choice of four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive. As one newspaper motoring writer put it when the Territory went on sale: "Australia is about to find out if motorists really need 4WD".

The subsequent six years of sales would show a massive preference for rear-drive, which now accounts for 70 per cent of Territory sales. This proves that Australians love the look and practicality of four-wheel-drive vehicles -- but don't always need all-wheel drive ability.

The Territory's body was a triumph of design. Even though the Territory was shorter overall than the Falcon, it had much more cabin and cargo space because Ford stretched the Territory between the front and rear wheels. The taller, more open body style also created acres of space.

The tall driving position gave a commanding view of the road ahead. Mums and dads felt invincible on the school run in their two-plus-tonne machines.

All Territory models were available with five or seven seats. The third-row seats stowed cleverly (but cannot easily be removed) to create a flat floor so that when both the second and third row seats are folded down there is a long, flat load space.

The third row seat was designed with children and teenagers in mind, but small-framed adults can squeeze in for short trips. If you must carry adults in the back row, try to get in there yourself before signing up to buy the car.

There are three models in the mainstream Territory range: TX, TS and Ghia. All are available in rear-drive or four-wheel-drive. Turbocharged performance models would follow in July 2006 but are not covered in this report.

Standard fare on the original Territory TX range included air-conditioning, an electrically adjustable driver's seat, power windows, auto headlamps, steering wheel audio controls, a tissue box holder (which came with a box of tissues back then) a single CD player, trip computer, height-adjustable pedals (via a button on the steering column), and three 12-volt power sockets (front console, second row seat console, and rear luggage area).

Ford also boasted that the Territory had 30 storage compartments in the seven-seat model, and 32 storage compartments in the five-seat model, including massive door pockets with adjustable drink holders, and a cubby on top of the dash.

All models came with the same, trusty 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine found in the Ford Falcon of the day, with 182kW of power and 380Nm of torque. And the same trusty four-speed automatic transmission. Originally, the four-speed auto was the only transmission on both rear-drive and all-wheel-drive models.

Drivers who craved a manual were asked to make do with the auto's Sports Shift mode. That is, flick the lever to one side and change gears manually.

Ford copied the BMW philosophy of, once in this mode, pushing the lever forward to change down gears, and pulling the lever back to change up. The theory being that this follows the inertia of the car when braking or accelerating. (JD: interestingly, the motoring world was -- and still is -- divided on this subject and some believe that the actions should be reversed. The industry is evenly split on this debate, judging by where the plus and minus symbols are placed on new cars these days. Of course, it's a rather pointless discussion given that most drivers wisely leave the transmission to its own devices: in 'D' for Drive.)

Originally, rear-drive Territory models came with traction control, while all-wheel-drive models had stability control (which can prevent a skid in an emergency swerve manouvre). This made the Territory the first Australian-made car with stability control.

It was also the first Australian made car with side curtain airbags, which were standard on the flagship Ghia and middle-of-the-range TS model, and optional on the base TX model.

Rear parking sensors and cruise control were only standard on the top-of-the-range Ghia models, and were optional on others. Incredibly, cruise control and curtain airbags would not become standard on all Territory models until May 2009.

The Territory was widely praised for how well it drove. It disguised its mass well, even though it weighed almost as much as the other popular medium-sized 4WD wagons of the day.

It steered well and was comfortable over bumps. On all-wheel-drive models, 62 per cent of the power goes to the rear wheels, while 38 per cent of the power is sent to the front. This makes the Territory sure-footed on slippery surfaces such as a wet road or a dirt trail.

Ford worked with Goodyear to develop two tyres specifically for the Territory. So specific, in fact, that merely mentioning the tyre size to a tyre retailer tells them instantly that you own a Ford Territory.

The all-wheel-drive models came with a Goodyear Fortera while rear-drive models came with a Goodyear Integrity. The dimensions for both are 235/60 R17.

Other companies now make a tyre in this size, but Territory owners would be well advised to stick with the original Goodyear rubber when it comes time to replace the tyres, given that they were designed to work best with the Territory's suspension and steering -- and anti-lock brake and stability control systems.

Another good reason to stick with the original rubber: Territory owners typically get up to 60,000km on a set of Goodyear tyres if they've been rotated regularly and always properly inflated.

At around $300 each for the Fortera and $270 each for the Integrity, they're not the cheapest tyres available -- but they last longer than average. As a reference, genuine replacement tyres for the Toyota Kluger come at a similar cost.

SY ARRIVES
In October 2005, Ford introduced a number of upgrades to the Territory range and changed the model code from SX to SY, even though there were no external visual differences. (Incidentally, the only way to tell the difference between the Territory models from May 2004 to April 2009 is by checking the build date on the compliance label in the driver's door jamb.)

A rear view camera became standard on the flagship Territory Ghia and an option on the middle-of-the-range Territory TS. But the rear view camera was not available on the base TX model because it didn't come with a full colour display screen at that time.

The Territory's six-cylinder engine was reworked slightly. It went from 182kW and 380Nm to 190kW and 383Nm. This change also improved the figure on the fuel economy rating label, although this alone didn't reduce real world economy by much if at all.

Territorys typically average between 13L/100km and 17L/100km, depending on driving style and conditions, which is not exactly frugal, so be sure to budget for this when buying.

The biggest reduction in fuel consumption came from the fitment of a six-speed automatic transmission in the all-wheel-drive models. (The four-speed auto carried on in rear-drive models.)

Ford introduced an updated Bosch ABS and stability control system (from Bosch 5.3 to Bosch 8.0), which monitors vehicle stability parameters 25 times per second and anti-lock brake parameters 200 times per second -- and chose to make it available on more models. Stability control (previously exclusive to the all-wheel-drive models) became standard on the flagship rear-drive Ghia -- and optional on the TS and TX rear-drive models.

Ford also fitted what it called a "smart" alternator, which delivered a higher output at lower rotational speeds.

The Territory remained unchanged for another two years, until a minor update known simply as 'SY Upgrade' in July 2007, which saw stability control become standard on all Territory models.

Curtain airbags wouldn't become standard until May 2009 when the SY Mark II was released. Unlike other model updates, this one could be identified without looking at a compliance label. It had a new front bumper, a large chrome strip under each headlight, a new bonnet with a creased bulge in the centre section, new wheels and new seat trim.

In March 2009 Ford announced a recall of more than 90,000 Ford Territorys -- including 83,500 on Australian roads -- to rectify a potential leak in a front brake hose. Ford says the problem occurred on less than 2 per cent of Territorys -- about 1800 vehicles.

The problem came to light through a 'Mr Fixit' motoring column in one of Australia's daily newspapers, which received 15 complaints of brake failures from Territory owners. The voluntary recall involved vehicles manufactured between February 1, 2004 and December 31, 2008 and affected 83,534 Territorys in Australia, 7739 in New Zealand, 3612 in South Africa and about 60 in Thailand and Brunei, reports said at the time. Turbocharged Territory models are not affected, as they have a different braking system.

The Ford recall notice said in part: "Under certain operating conditions it is possible for the vehicle to develop a front brake fluid leak, which can result in reduced braking effectiveness from the front brakes. In these cases, the rear braking system will still bring the vehicle to a halt within Australian Design Rule requirements. If the vehicle continues to be operated in this condition, a warning light will appear on the instrument cluster to alert the driver that the vehicle's braking system requires attention... Ford's investigation shows that a combination of high time in service, along with frequent cornering at full steering lock, can lead to the issue."

To find out if a Territory has had the recall work completed, check for a silver foil adhesive label on the inside of the driver's door jamb. If the work has not been done, the vehicle can still be taken to a Ford dealership and the repair will be completed free of charge even if the vehicle is out of warranty.

THINGS TO WATCH

Front ball joints
Front ball joints are well known for wearing prematurely on the Ford Territory, with some needing replacement as early as 30,000km. Typically ball joints should last well beyond 100,000km or even the life of some vehicles. But the ball joints on the Territory are load-bearing and can wear out faster than usual. Tell-tale signs are feathering of the outer edges of the front tyres, badly worn inside edges of the front tyres -- or a loud thump when you hit pot holes. You can't necessarily feel it through the steering. The only way to check is to get the car up on a hoist or a jack and test how much movement there is in each wheel by trying to move the top of the tyre in and out.

Rear suspension bushes
The rear suspension bushes can wear prematurely and you will either hear them squeak or feel the back becomes a bit too soft because there's too much movement. Ford made running changes to the material used in rear suspension bushes during the Territory's life, but it's still worth having a mechanic check closely for wear.

Rusty tailgate
This is a common problem on Territorys and can affect them even less than a year old. Somehow, moisture gets trapped inside the tailgate and the metal starts to rust. Open the tailgate and pull the lower rubber back from the edge of the bodywork and check for rust. Also check the area behind the tail-lights. The tailgate rust problem is so widespread that Ford has, in some cases, repaired vehicles that are out of warranty.

Front brake shudder
In addition to checking for the front brake hose recall label, pay close attention to brake pedal feel. If the brake pedal moves up and down slightly even though you are pressing it firmly, chances are the discs are warped and need machining. This is common given the weight of the car. City vehicles are more prone to this than country cars.

Four-speed auto
The four-speed automatic transmission is sturdy but earlier models were known to kick down gears with a bit of a thud. In most cases there is nothing wrong with the transmission. Rather, this is a trait. Later models were recalibrated for smoother shifts.

Oil change
Ford recommends the engine oil is changed every 15,000km. Be sure to check the logbook that this was the case. Ideally, you'd change the oil every 7500km using a genuine Ford oil filter and the oil type and rating that Ford recommends.

Diff whine
This is less of a problem in later models but can be an issue on high-kilometre early cars. Listen for subtle whining from the rear of the car or any undue vibrations at freeway speeds. Be extra diligent on transmission and differential inspections if the Territory you are looking to buy has a tow bar, as towing can place a lot of stress on these items.

Check the seats
This may sound like a silly suggestion, but be sure to check the Territory you're about to buy has seven seats -- if you are after the seven seat model. Some buyers caught in a rush and attracted by a sharp price have been known to forget to look. So ask to see or assemble the third row seat for yourself.

OUR RECOMMENDATION
Generally speaking, all Territory Ghia models would be preferable because they have all available safety equipment of their time. Otherwise try to find a late model Territory with side and curtain airbags. All models since July 2007 have stability control, but curtain airbags were an option on the base model. Check for the "side airbag" symbol in the door pillar moulds and in the edge of the front seats. All models since May 2009 would be a safer bet as they all have all of the above, but they will be dearer to buy.

WHAT SHOULD YOU PAY
Auto industry price guide RedBook says 2004 Territory models in good condition and low kilometres range in price from $16,500 for the base TX to $20,800 for the flagship Ghia. The guide also says that 2007 models (just out of warranty) are being advertised for $23,000 for the base TX and $32,000 for the flagship Ghia, although the transaction prices may be a little sharper. At the time of publishing this article in February 2010, near-new low kilometre May 2009-onwards Territorys range between $31,000 for the base TX and $46,000 for the all-wheel-drive Ghia.

2011 Infiniti M37

2010-03-08T18:41:00.000-08:00

2011 Infiniti M37
Select a trim for more detail information

2011 Infiniti M37 comparison

Base Price: $46,250 - $48,400 Body Style: Sedan
Performance & Efficiency: 3,696 cc 3.7 liters V 6 front engine with double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder. Premium unleaded fuel 91 and petrol.
Rebates & Incentives:
36 Month Finance Rate: N/A; 48 Month Finance Rate: N/A

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Competitors | All Trims | Infiniti Models

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2011 Infiniti M37 Competitor Comparison
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Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Year 2011
Make Infiniti
Model M37
Trim
General Pricing
View: Expand All
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
MSRP $48,400.00 $114,150.00 $46,280.00 $47,760.00
Destination $865.00 $850.00 $920.00 $825.00
Internet Price Get My Price Get My Price Get My Price Get My Price
Engines & Power
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Standard Engine 3.7L 330hp V6 5L 510hp V8 4.6L 275hp V8 3.5L 355hp V6
Horsepower 330 @ 7000 RPM 510 @ 6000 RPM 275 @ 6000 RPM 355 @ 5700 RPM
Torque 270 @ 5200 RPM 461 @ 2500 RPM 295 @ 4400 RPM 350 @ 3500 RPM
Valves 4 4 4 4
Displacement (cc) 3696 5000 4565 3490
Bore X Stroke (in.) N/A 3.6 X 3.7 3.7 X 3.3 3.6 X 3.4
Compression Ratio N/A 9.5:1 10.0:1 10.1:1
Fuel Economy
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
City (mpg) N/A 15 15 17
Highway (mpg) N/A 21 23 25
Exterior Dimensions & Weight
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Curb Weight - Automatic (lb.) N/A 4323.3 4008 4277
Wheelbase (in.) 114.2 124.3 115.6 112.9
Length (in.) 194.7 206.6 207.6 204.1
Width (in.) 72.6 74.6 74.8 75.9
Height (in.) 59.6 57 57.6 61.6
Track Front (in.) 62 64 62.5 64.9
Track Rear (in.) 62 63.1 61.7 65.1
Ground Clearance (in.) N/A N/A N/A N/A
Interior Dimensions
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Standard Seating 5 5 5 5
Front Headroom (in.) N/A 38.4 39.2 37.9
Rear Headroom (in.) N/A 38.6 38.6 38.5
Front Legroom (in.) N/A 41.5 42.5 41.9
Rear Legroom (in.) N/A 44.1 41.6 38.6
Front Shoulder Room (in.) N/A 58.3 60 58.6
Rear Shoulder Room (in.) N/A 58.2 59.2 57.4
Front Hip Room (in.) N/A 58.3 56.9 55.3
Rear Hip Room (in.) N/A 58.3 56.7 55.3
Payload & Towing
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Passenger Volumn (cu. ft.) N/A N/A 113.2 105.8
Steering, Suspension & Brakes
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Front Suspension wishbone wishbone strut strut
Rear Suspension multi-link multi-link multi-link multi-link
Tires 245/50R18 245/40R20 235/55R17 255/45R19
Anti-Theft & Locks
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Power Door Locks Std. Std. Std. Std.
Braking & Traction
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
4 Wheel Drive / All Wheel Drive 4x4 wheel drive rear wheel drive front wheel drive 4x4 wheel drive
ABS Brakes (2 or 4 Wheel) Std. Std. Std. Std.
Limited Slip Differential or Axle N/A Std. N/A N/A
Vehicle Stability Control System Std. Std. Std. Std.
Entertainment, Communication & Navigation
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Radio N/A digital N/A N/A
Cassette Player N/A N/A N/A N/A
CD Player Yes Yes Yes N/A
CD Changer N/A N/A N/A Yes
DVD Player N/A Std. N/A N/A
Navigation Aid N/A Std. Std. Std.
Interior
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Cruise Control Std. Std. Std. Std.
Tilt Steering Yes Yes Yes Yes
Telescopic Steering Column Yes Yes N/A Yes
Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Air Conditioning Std. Std. Std. Std.
Safety
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Driver Airbag Std. Std. Std. Std.
Front Side Airbag Std. Std. Std. Std.
Passenger Side Airbag Std. Std. Std. Std.
Rear Side Airbag N/A N/A N/A N/A
Seats
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Driver Multi-Adjustable Power Seat Yes Yes Yes Yes
Roof
Infiniti M37 Jaguar XJ-Series XJL Supersport Cadillac DTS Lincoln MKS EcoBoost
Sunroof / Moonroof Std. Std. N/A N/A
Windows, Mirrors & Wipers

Top Ten Cars to Look Forward to in 2010: #2 Chevrolet Volt

2010-02-25T23:38:00.000-08:00

Finally. Well, almost finally. GM’s highly anticipated 2011 Chevrolet Volt makes it to #2 on our list of the Top Ten Cars to Look Forward to in 2010, and forward we are looking. With the media buzzing with excitement over the General’s latest green creation, many are wondering if the Volt will indeed live up to the hype.

Now, ten months remain until the Volt’s proposed release date of November 10, 2010. And there is still a sizzle of speculation regarding the car’s actual performance versus the manufacturer’s claims. Well, some of that speculation has been laid laid to rest, with The Car Connection’s First Drive road test of the 2011 Chevy Volt. It should however be noted that this test was administered on a pre-production Volt.

Two months ago, a fleet of eight pre-production Volt models took to the road for a series of real world tests. The main goal of the test was to sample the Volt’s Charge Sustaining Mode so GM would have a better idea of the production car’s real-world range and mileage—two very important attributes that are paramount to the Volt’s success, the third being price, which actually looks to be heading south of $40k. Things seem to be going smoothly for the team of engineers and it looks like the Volt is on track for its November 2010 release.

For more, click to the dedicated 2011 Chevrolet Volt website.

Check back later tomorrow for CarsDirect’s Top Ten Cars to Look Forward to in 2010: #1…