IIHS Names Subaru Legacy, Outback Top Safety Picks

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The 2010 Subaru Outback and Legacy both received the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s highest rating of Top Safety Pick.

Vehicles are only named a Top Safety Pick if they receive front, side and rear crash test ratings of “Good,” which is the highest rating in IIHS testing. They must now also come equipped with electronic stability control.

The Legacy has boasted a “Good” rating for a few years now, but the all-new Outback managed to earn the top prize its first time out.

Check Out Some Artsy Cars!

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Top 10 Most Expensive Cars to Own and Drive!

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1. Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series, $364,471
2. Mercedes-Benz S65 AMG, $244,363
3. Mercedes-Benz CL65 AMG, $230,771
4. Audi R8, $159,753
5. Porsche 911 Convertible, $159,393
6. Audi A8 L W12, $153,588
7. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1, $146,096
8. Porsche Cayenne Turbo S, $138,613
9. BMW M6 Convertible, $138,186
10. Mercedes-Benz CLS63 AMG, 137,749

EPA false??

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Since the late 1970s, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has certified the fuel-economy projections of some 450 million new vehicles sold in this country.

The projections are there by law and appear boldly on the window stickers of new vehicles, for example, CITY MPG 16, HIGHWAY MPG 25. They appear authoritatively, almost like a pledge from the federal government, and motorists have put a lot of faith in these numbers.

The EPA figures also determine whether an automaker meets the required fuel-economy averages for a company’s entire vehicle line, so the numbers are a very big deal. As such, you might expect the federal government’s facility to be about the size of, oh, the Department of Agriculture and loaded to the brim with persistent bureaucrats.

While the public mistakenly presumes that this federal agency is hard at work conducting complicated tests on every new model of truck, van, car, and SUV, in reality, just 18 of the EPA’s 17,000 employees work in the automobile-testing department in Ann Arbor, Michigan, examining 200 to 250 vehicles a year, or roughly 15 percent of new models. As to that other 85 percent, the EPA takes automakers at their word—without any testing—accepting submitted results as accurate.

Two-thirds of the new vehicles the EPA does test are selected randomly, and the remaining third are done for specific reasons. We’re not sure why a Porsche 911 GT3 was at the lab when we were there—other than to get an up-close look at its sexy, single-lug wheels—but candidates for scrutiny usually involve new technologies, new manufacturers, class fuel-economy champs, or cars that barely avoid a gas-guzzler tax.

We visited the EPA’s nondescript lab for a look at just how these numbers are derived. Located across the street from the University of Michigan’s North Campus and next to a mundane strip mall, the only clue to its importance is the imposing gate that guards the industrial building complex.

What happens inside is enormously complicated. There are endless reams of documents that explain, in detail, every procedure and circumstance, and each comes with its own set of rules. Even the procedure for rounding off the results of the fuel-economy tests to produce what is published on a new-car label is crazily complex. “We have a guy that’s literally made a career out of specializing in rounding,” says the EPA’s Linc Wehrly, manager of “light-duty compliance,” the man in charge of vehicle testing.

So how does the EPA lab work?

Vehicles are tested on dynamometers, or dynos, which are like giant treadmills for cars. The vehicle is held stationary while its wheels spin the dyno’s large rollers. There are just three dynos, and only one of them is a four-wheel-drive unit with sets of rollers for both the front and rear wheels; the two other dynos are spun by only a car’s driven wheels. The four-wheel dyno was added fairly recently; before that, all testing had to be done on two-wheel-drive dynos, which necessitated the additional complexity of disconnecting driveshafts on AWD models so they could be converted to two-wheel drive. (How weird can it get? The EPA created a two-wheel-drive version of the $1.7 million, 1001-hp Bugatti Veyron—the world’s fastest and most outrageous production car—for this purpose, prompting visions of burnouts of nuclear dimension.) When tested this way, additional drag is applied to the dyno to replicate normal operation of the AWD system.



After a vehicle is strapped down on a dyno, the staff punches in coefficients that allow the dyno rolls to simulate real-world factors, such as wind and road friction.



One of the EPA’s six drivers is behind the wheel of the test car. With an average of 20 years’ experience, they have extremely fine-tuned throttle and brake-control skills. They “drive” by following a precise red line of speed versus time that’s displayed on a monitor hanging just in front of the windshield. Using the gas pedal and the brakes, the driver attempts to match the red line with the car’s wheel speed, which is shown in white. We got into a test car and tried it, and indeed, it’s very difficult to maintain the speed of the tests, particularly when it dithers in the single digits and a brush of the throttle can send the white line careening off-course. If the speed deviates from the test cycle by more than 2 mph, the results are thrown out. For manual-transmission cars, there are standard EPA shift points, which are broadcast on the driver’s screen as well.

2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom (Extended Wheelbase)

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This amazing, luxurious Phantom is sure to make you want one! You can customize the interior to such an extent to make it so unique and the way you always imagined!

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee!

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Want to see how Jeep decided to remodel the Grand Cherokee? Check this video out for information on, and to see the new model!

How Exactly DO Hybrid Cars Work??

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The Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) is quite the technological wonder. As a work in progress, the Hybrid Electric Vehicle technology has done much to improve the gas-dependence situation and has saved several households and individuals from having to spend so much on fossil fuels.

What is it under the hybrid car hood that is creating all these raving reviews that seem to take consumers by the neck and lead them to their nearest hybrid car dealer? Let’s try to take a look at just how hybrid cars work.

The Combination

The keyword in all of this is the word “hybrid.” An HEV basically brings out the best in both electrical power and fuel. By incorporating both an electrical motor and a gas engine, it allows the vehicle to switch back and forth between energy sources. Of course, the usual case is that the car really depends solely on the battery and electrical motors to run the vehicle.

You may ask what the gas is for. The car will still need gas to operate an engine that charges the battery which, in turn, runs the whole car. However, the good thing about this set up is that not much gas is required to charge up those batteries. Hence, hybrid cars really only need so much gas to fill their significantly smaller gas tanks and therefore saves people from having to cash out so much on gas.

Go The Distance

In order to actually see how a hybrid car works, one would have to take one for a spin on a full tank and compare the results in mileage with a car that runs only on gas. One will definitely see the huge difference in cars dependent on electric motors. Going a great distance is achieved by the way the hybrid works. There are 3 essential technologies that allow this to happen.

The first innovative technology used in hybrid cars is the regenerative braking that applies resistance to the drive train. This in turn causes the wheels to slow down. The energy from the wheels turns the engine which in real time acts as generator which converts the energy wasted during coasting and braking into electricity. The electricity is then accumulated in a battery until such time when it is needed by other functions in the electric motor.

The next technology used in hybrid cars is the elect motor assist. This elect motor assist provides extra power to help the motor in acceleration like ascending elevated terrains or speeding up. Smaller engines are used which is more efficient compared to when internal combustion engine is used.

Another hybrid car technology is the automatic start and shutdown. When a hybrid car stops for a stoplight, the whole engine shuts down as well. This helps the engine in conserving energy and fuel from running idle. When the vehicle is accelerated again, the engine automatically starts up. When combined, these three hybrid technologies create a vehicle that is simply to reckon with!

Theres a first for everything!

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Just a little fact!

Volvo Cars will celebrated the 50th anniversary of the standard-fit three point safety belts, which appeared for the first time on a Volvo PV544 delivered Thursday August 13, 1959 to a Volvo dealer in the Swedish town of Kristianstad.

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Nissan has made the 2009 370Z leaner and meaner than the 2008 350Z it replaces. Up front, headlights look just like those on the 2008 350Z, except for the stretched edges, a design touch we first saw on the recently redone Nissan Maxima. "Fangs" have also been built into the front air intake, adding another element of visual spice. Around the side you might notice the attractive wheels and greenhouse that recalls the original 240Z. We think the rear end is a serious improvement as your eyes are no longer immediately drawn to long, clear backup lights. Do you agree?


HorsePower

350z: 306 hp

370z: 332 hp (Nismo- 350 hp)

Lbs-ft of Torque

350z: 260 lb-ft

370z: 270 lb-ft (Nismo- 276 lb-ft)

MSRP

350z: $36,870

370z: $29,930

Liters

350z: 3.5L

370z: 3.7L

Engine Type

350z: V6

370z: V6

Need Rims?

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Are you looking for a set of nice rims for your vehicle?

Visit http://www.victoriatire.com or http://www.streetdreams.org to check out some of the best rims to get for your car!

You can search for wheels by car or brand!

CCC: Car to Helicopter?

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The CCC is a fascinating and futuristic concept car which is an ultimate solution for eventful city use with its compact design and mostly, the ability to transforming into a fully operational helicopter. When in the car mode, it is a three wheeled vehicle with 2 giant front wheels and one small rear wheel, which works as tail rotor when it transforms into 'copter mode. The blades remain folded hidden in car mode and can pop out when required. The entrance is designed from the front through a pop up glass door and no passengers other than the driver are allowed to board on this single seater car-copter. The cockpit has a sphere at the driver’s right arm to control the CCC.

Car:



Helicopter:

Crazy, Right?

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Want to see some insane, futuristic cars Japan is working on? Check this out!

Cars of the Future!

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Pierre Sabas Concept




Mazda Kazamai Concept




Audi Concept (Germany)




Peugeot Concept




Fiat Sentiero Compact Pick Up Truck Concept





Cadillac CT Coupe Concept




Aston Martin Lagonda Concept




Buick Business Concept




Audi Q5 Custom Concept




Honda FC Sport Concept




Ford Ranger Max Concept

The Big-Three!

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It took 40 years, but this Big-Three rematch is on! Compare the 2010 Ford Musting GT, 2009 Dodge Challenger R/T, and the 2010 Chevy Camaro SS and see them in action!

Top 10 GREEN cars!

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Need a car that gets good gas milage, and is healthy for the environment? check these out!



2010 Toyota Prius 50 mpg (51 city, 48 highway)The third-generation Prius has arrived with sleeker looks, added creature comforts, upgraded performance and even-better fuel economy. Despite a larger engine, 24 additional horsepower and quicker acceleration, the new Prius manages to deliver four more miles per gallon than its predecessor. The coolest new option is a glass moonroof with a solar-powered ventilation system, but the list also includes voice-activated navigation and Dynamic Radar Cruise Control with Lane Keep Assist.


2010 Honda Insight 41 mpg (40 city, 43 highway)With a starting sticker price of $20,470, the all-new Honda Insight is the least expensive full-production hybrid available in the U.S. Even the top-level Insight EX with Navigation that includes features like a voice-activated navigation system, Bluetooth phone connectivity, upgraded audio system and electronic stability control is just $23,770. These figures should give the Insight a clear price advantage compared to the newest Prius, for which pricing has yet to be announced.


2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid 39 mpg (41 city, 36 highway)The Ford Fusion is getting better with age, and perhaps the best addition is the hybrid version. For the 2010 model year, the lineup benefits from new exterior styling and an interior redesign, which grace the new hybrid version that handily out-economizes both the Toyota Camry (33 city/34 hwy mpg) and the Chevy Malibu (26 city/34 hwy mpg) hybrids. We were fans of the Fusion before, but even bigger believers after seeing and driving the latest iterations.


2009 VW Jetta SportWagen TDI 34 mpg (30 city, 41 hwy)Not long ago, VW's familiar diesel moniker vanished from the automaker's top-selling Jetta, but it has made a proud return for 2009. This time, the Jetta TDI and Jetta SportWagen TDI will be available in every state, a point that surely helped the Jetta TDI take home the 2009 Green Car of the Year award. Returning mpg that's roughly 40% better than its gas-powered equal, the Jetta SportWagen TDI combines utility, world-class efficiency and Euro driving dynamics in one well-rounded green machine.


2009 MINI Cooper 32 mpg (28 city, 37 highway)The MINI Cooper balances fun and efficiency like nothing else on the road. Responsive steering, a sport-tuned suspension and diminutive dimensions combine to deliver a driving experience that instantly evokes allusions to the proverbial go kart. Combine that kind of athleticism with highway fuel economy up to 37 miles per gallon - and a personality bigger than the car itself - and you've got a unique brand of feel-good fun.


2009 Ford Escape Hybrid 32 mpg (34 city, 31 highway)We like compact crossovers for their smart mix of utility and efficiency, and the 2009 Ford Escape Hybrid is the most fuel-efficient SUV in the country. After undergoing a major overhaul for the 2008 model year, the Ford Escape Hybrid is improved again for 2009 with smoother braking and electric-to-gas transitions, plus a one-mile-per-gallon improvement in highway fuel economy.


2009 Honda Fit 31 mpg (28 city, 34 highway)The Toyota Yaris remains the category's mileage champ, but the Honda Fit so handily outshines its competitors in our eyes that it's making the list again this year. We're especially fond of the Sport model and its performance-tuned suspension and paddle shifters, but even base models are fun. If you're more interested in pure practicality than driving pleasure, be sure to check out the Fit's flexible back seat and impressive cargo-carrying abilities. The Honda Fit may be a little car, but it's a lot of car.


2009 BMW 335d 27 mpg (23 city/36 highway)BMW's new diesel-powered 3 Series is one of those cars you really have to drive to believe. First off, its zero-to-60 mph time of 6.0 seconds is only four tenths slower than that of the category's gas-powered gold standard, BMW's 335i. For most buyers, that's a small price to pay for an increase in fuel economy of about 35% (the 335i is 17 city/26 highway mpg). Throw in all the driving feel and cornering ability that made the 3 Series a living legend, and you've got the greatest diesel car America's ever seen.


2009 Toyota Highlander Hybrid 26 mpg (27 city, 25 highway)The Highlander Hybrid remains the most fuel-efficient three-row vehicle available today, earning it an automatic bid at the top of many families' shopping lists. On top of room for seven and exceptional fuel economy, the Highlander Hybrid offers proven reliability and the added all-weather confidence of standard all-wheel drive.


2009 Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid 21 mpg (21 city, 22 hwy)If fuel economy is a major concern, then buying a truck doesn't make much sense. But what if you need the utility of a truck? Shouldn't you, too, be able to enjoy the benefits of hybrid technology? GM thinks so. That's why GM's Two-Mode hybrid system is available in the Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra. Despite delivering up to a 50% improvement in city mpg, this pickup retains its essential truckness by offering nearly 1,500 pounds of payload capacity, a 6,100-pound tow rating and a big full size bed.


--kbb.com

Tips for washing and waxing your vehicle!

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Here are some tips that you can keep in mind when washing and waxing your car to get the cleanliness and protection that a professional job can give.

Know Your Waxes!

There are two different kinds of waxes. Both create about the same finished effect, but they work differently. A carnauba wax is a natural wax that comes from a Brazilian tree (this is also a popular wax that is used in many foods). Carnauba wax is especially good on dark colored cars and provides a super deep shine. However, carnauba wax is not as durable as synthetic wax, though it may be shinier.

Synthetic wax is long-lasting and easy to apply to any car. It can last anywhere from six to nine months, but it may not offer the same shininess that a carnauba wax may provide. This is also an excellent option for lighter colored cars.

Don’t Wax In Sunlight!

A sunny day may seem like the perfect time to wash and wax your car. However, it’s important to keep in mind that you should never wax your car in the sunlight. Sunlight may cause the wax to bake onto the paint of your car, making it difficult to remove through buffing. Always wax your car under a tree or in a garage in order to have the easiest results.

Rinse the Car to Remove Dirt Before Hand Washing.

Many people wash their cars by hand and get excellent results. However, it is important to be aware that dirt and other elements can cause your car to become scratched if you wash your car by hand without first rinsing it. Rinse away the dirt before applying soap or other chemicals to your car with a cloth or cleaning pad. You may want to use a high pressure hose to get the best results when removing dirt from your car.

By following these simple car washing and waxing tips, you can be certain that you will have the results you’re looking for -or at least be one step closer to having a fully clean, waxed, and protected car!

--http://www.scottkia.ca/scottkiacarblog/index.php/2009/04/3-tips-for-washing-and-waxing-your-car-like-a-pro

New Cars for 2010!

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2010 Porsche Cayenne



Price Range: $48,000 - $124,800

Bodystyle: SUV

Performance and Efficiency: 3.6 liters 4,806 cc 4.8 liters V 8 front engine with 96.0 mm bore, 83.0 mm stroke, 10.5 compression ratio, double overhead cam, variable valve timing/camshaft and four valves per cylinder.

2010 Cadillac SRX

Price Range: $33,330 - $47,540
Bodystyle: Cross-over

Performance and Efficiency: 3.0-liter, gas direct-injection V-6. 11-psi max turbocharger.

2010 Subaru Outback

Price Range: $23,995 - $30,995

Bodystyle: Wagon

Performance and Efficiency: 256-hp, 3.6 liters, 247 lb-ft of torque, V6, 18 city/25 highway.

2010 Hyundai Genesis

Price Range: $23,250-$26,500

Bodystyle: Car

Performance and Efficiency: 3.8L V-6 with 306 horse power standard at 6,300 rpms and 266 foot pounds of torque.

2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed 3

Price Range: $16,825-$22,30

Bodystyle: Car

Performance and Efficiency: 2.0 L in line 4 with a standard of 148 horse power at 6,500 rpms OR 2.3 L I-4 with 260 horse power.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro

Price Range: $22,245-$33,430

Bodystyle: Coupe

Performance and Efficiency: 3.6L V6 with 300 horse power or you can have the power plant with a 6.2 L V8 that has over 425 horsepower. MPG: 16 city/24 highway.

2010 Kia Forte

Price Range: Around $14,000
Bodystyle: Sedan

Performance and Efficiency: 2.0 L, DOHC, 156 horsepower. SX model having 173 horsepower and a 2.4L DOHC power plant. MPG: 34+ highway.

2010 Ford Mustang

Price Range: $20,995-$32,995
Bodystyle: Coupe

Performance and Efficiency: V6 4.0 L with 9.7:1 compression. MPG: 17 city and 26 highway.

**The GT500 model is styled after the AC Cobra's of the 60's. It is expected to have 540 horse power and a 5.4 L V8 supercharged motor. The expected price tag on this beast will be around $40-$50,000 with the convertibles being on the high side!

2010 Lamborghini Murcielago LP 670-4 "Superveloce"

Price Range: $354,000-$382,400

Bodystyle: Sport

Performance: 631 horsepower at 8,000 rpms, 11:1 compression ratio.

**Superveloce is italian for highspeed.