Sunday, June 30, 2013

TOYOTA PROBOX PRICE IN PAKISTAN

 

If you are in Pakistan, you will find three traditional companies manufacturing and promoting new cars and models in the market. Toyota is one of them. The question is why Toyota is highly promoted in Pakistan. The reason is that, Toyota is a Japanese company and the Japan is best known country as the manufacturer of high quality cars and other vehicles in the world. Their vehicles are quality assured and durable. Keeping the Toyota market high and up to the demands of people, it has announced another 2012 model named Probox. Toyota Probox is a sort of a Van with five doors. According to Japanese law, 5 passengers can easily travel in the car. Its interior and exterior is a combination of bold look and enamoring design. The rare brake and front headlights are all crystal lighted. The interior has big dashboard with so many control buttons. The side mirrors have digital control with buttons embedded inside the Van. 2012 Probox has a traditional seating design, not well groomed with finest finishing, yet neatly tailored. The entire Van is available in two power engines. One is 1300cc with 2 wheel drive and the other one is 1500cc with 2WD and 4WD both. You can buy either manual gear or automatic gear transmission Probox. The verdict, it’s a petrol car with DOHC, VVT-I engine that can bear huge load and take you anywhere you want. This car is suitable for long and heavy-duty drive.

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Friday, June 28, 2013

Los Angeles Times Review Prius Problems Beyond Brakes Go Back 10 Years



In this mornings editions, The Los Angeles Times says its review of safety records shows complaints about various electrical components in the Toyota Prius including engine shutdowns while at speed and dual headlamp failures dating back to 2001.
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Thursday, June 27, 2013

New Car Review 2012 Fiat 500C



Rear view from above of 2012 Fiat 500C driving on a narrow road at dusk with the roof retracted
The 2012 Fiat 500C.

Regular TireKicker readers know I am hype-averse. The more something gets promoted, plugged, built-up, the more skeptical I am about it.

So, a dumb commercial featuring J. Lo and the Fiat 500C is a great way to turn me all the way off:





And, Ill admit...even before that started airing, I had my doubts about the Fiat 500. It looked like another super-sized re-creation (the original 500 could probably fit in the passenger space of the new one) of a cute car from 50 years ago that almost no one in North America has ever seen, much less driven. And the changes required by government regulation and consumer preferences in the intervening half-century insured that, despite a distinctive appearance, this would very likely be just another contemporary small car.

But, as Brock Yates once said about driving a Yugo for Car and Driver, "Its a car magazine. We drive the sunsabitches." So I did.

It went back to Fiat 24 hours ago after a week and 250 miles with me.

I miss it.



The 2012 Fiat 500C front and side view.


While still waiting for our time in a 2012 Volkswagen Beetle, I can tell you this: The Fiat 500 is a terrific little car. The styling is a mood elevator and conversation starter. Youll make a lot of friends just getting out of the car to run into the grocery store. Its 1.4 liter four-cylinder and 6-speed automatic provide a good blend of performance and fuel economy. It cruises at 80 on the freeway without the least bit of drama and with a surprising lack of noise and vibration.  You sit upright and tall in the car, aided by the arching roof. Im six feet even, and I had headroom to spare. And the seats might be the most comfortable chairs weve been in since TireKicker launched more than three years ago.

It is, as I thought it might be, a contemporary small car...but in the best possible way.

The charm factor was amplified by the fact that our tester was the 500C...the convertible. Or giant canvas sunroof model. Whatever. Just look at the photo at the top of this review and know that it opens to three positions...just back of the front seats, just behind the rear seats, or all the way down. And since it doesnt raise into the air or fold, you can open or close it while driving.

In the first two positions, wind noise and the feeling of a breeze through the cabin are muted. This is a convertible you can drive without mussing your hair. All the way back, and you get the sensation of the breeze circulating through the cockpit, but you still can carry on a conversation without raising your voice.


Interior of the 2012 Fiat 500C.

Our tester was the top-of-the-line Fiat 500C Lounge. Base price of $23,500, bringing with it leather seats, the six-speed automatic, a full batch of airbags and reactive head restraints, along with a drivers side knee airbag. Theres also electronic stability control, hill start assist, rear park assist (a good idea, since the rear window is smallish with the top up and with it folded, the resulting stack blocks some of your rearward view), four wheel antilock disc brakes, speed control, power door locks, a security alarm, remote keyless entry, tire pressure monitoring, intermittent wipers, automatic climate control with micron filter, driver seat memory, power windows, a Bose premium AM/FM/Sirius/CD/mp3 audio system with USB and auxilary jacks, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, tilt steering column, and a vehicle information center.

Options? Our car had two...Customer Preferred Package 22J, the Luxury Leather Package...leather-trimmed heated front bucket seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror for $1,250...and $300 to upgrade the 15-inch aluminum wheels. With destination charge of $500, the bottom line is $25,550.

No, thats not cheap for a small car...but the Fiat 500C isnt meant to be cheap (although you can buy a base hardtop with a manual transmission for $15,500 and a less lavishly-equipped convertible, the Fiat 500C Pop, for $19,500). Its a premium small car. A Mini Cooper convertible cant be had for less than $25,650 base...$100 more than our 500Cs as-tested price. Yes, the Fiat has 20 horsepower less than the Mini...but it weighs 100 pounds less.

So does Fiat beat the Mini? Maybe. Its been years since BMW has sent a Mini our way (save the high-performance, high-pricetage Mini John Cooper Works Convertible we reviewed a year and a half ago),  so, as with the 2012 Beetle, we cant make a direct comparison yet. But we will say this much: The Fiat is a very strong contender. Underestimate it at your own risk.


2012 Fiat 500C Lounge

Base price: $23,500.

As tested: $25,550.

Likes: Interior room, 3-position convertible top, great seats.

Dislikes: Vehicle information center confusing. The trip computer in ours either didnt work or we couldnt understand it in a week. Neither of those is a good thing.

EPA estimates: 27 mpg city/32 mpg highway.



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Tuesday, June 25, 2013

The popularity of Korean cars is growing

The Western countries have long since been able to evaluate the performance of Korean vehicles, while Russia prefers to buy other popular auto manufacturers. Even in the recent 60's road construction in Korea and did not exist. They only deal with the release of spare parts. Recently, the brewery produces about 2 million cars. To date, Korean cars are distinguished among other things, transportation is not only the highest quality, economy and favorable price. Manufacturers, factories that have special licenses, sales of automotive products in the shops of Korean parts, allowing consumers to produce high-quality repair of motor vehicles, to increase their lifespan. Korean car perfect for those motorists who do not want to spend extra money for nothing, but prefer to buy new items automotive market. Modern design cars, the introduction of modern options and a broad base configuration allowed the Korean manufacturer to gain a good reputation. Thus, the demand for cars from companies such as «Kia», «Hyundai», «Ssang Yong», «Daewoo» is increasing every day, not only in Europe but around the world as a whole.

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CNN 2002 Technical Service Bulletin Suggests Toyota Knew Of Electronic Acceleration Surges



The TSB from eight years ago was provided by attorneys for plainiffs in class action suits. They say it proves Toyota knew it had a problem, and knew it wasnt floor mats, at the beginning of the last decade.

Toyota calls them "baseless allegations" and "unfounded claims".
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Monday, June 24, 2013

Mazda CX 9 Recall Seat Heaters Could Catch Fire


Mazdas recalling its 2010 model year CX-9 because of a defect that could cause the seat heaters to overheat and maybe even catch fire.

The official NHTSA recall report is here.


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Sunday, June 23, 2013

My Car Ran Over Your Dog Heres What You Owe Me



A Canadian family, mourning the loss of their dog, is being asked to pay for damage to the car that hit it.

State Farm insurance says Kim Flemming let Jake, a 12-year old yellow Labrador, out of the house without a leash...in violation of a local bylaw....and thus caused the accident.

The bill? 1732.80 Canadian...$1648.95 US dollars.

(from Breitbart)
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Friday, June 21, 2013

2011 BMW Z4 Review

Front 3/4 view of white 2011 BMW Z4

Welcome to the gotta-have-it car of 2011. Men, women, kids....doesnt matter. Pull up in this and get ready for the questions:

Is it as wonderful to drive as it is to look at?

How fast is it?

Can you toss me the keys for an afternoon?

Here are the answers:

Yes.

Plenty.

I promised the folks at Chapman BMW in Chandler, Arizona that I wouldnt do that. 

Longtime TireKicker followers know that I believe in BMW magic. TireKickers first review (complete with the story of my first teenage encounter with a 2002tii) was of a BMW convertible (the 128i).


Rear 3/4 view of white 2011 BMW Z4

Well, the BMW magic has never been stronger than it is in the Z4. The styling re-defines the concept of animal magnetism (something like this cant possibly be just metal). The retractable hardtop gives you the best of both worlds...the practicality and security of a fixed-roof coupe and the wind in your hair and sun on your skin of a convertible.

And its a magnificent melding of the contemporary and the relatively recent past, grabbing styling cues from the limited-production 2000-2003 Z8.

The Z4 comes in three levels, the sDrive30i, with 255 horsepower and a base price of $47,450; the sDrive35i at 300 horsepower and a base price of $51,900 and the sDrive35is...335 horsepower and a starting price of $62,500.  Our week was in the middle of the line sDrive35i.

If there is a more balanced driving machine, I cant remember driving it. The car is light and nimble, steering responses are rightnowquick and, despite a short wheelbase and overall length, the ride is smooth while still giving great feedback from the road.

Instrument panel shot of 2011 BMW Z4

And inside, where the driving gets done? Well, the Z4 is every good thing about BMW. Phenomenal ergonomics, top-quality materials, an unflinching devotion to quality workmanship. And an integrated group of electronics that actually help get distractions out of the drivers way rather than adding to them. Its all (even the more complex functions) simple, direct and intuitive.

Even optionless, the Z4 sDrive35i would be a fantastic car, but our tester had several key option boxes checked: Titanium Silver Metallic paint (which everyone we encountered remarked on as the most beautiful shade of silver theyd seen), $550; the Premium Package (universal garage door opener, power front seats, lumbar support and BMW Assist with Bluetooth), $2,500; the Premium Sound Package, which upgrades the audio system while adding an iPod and USB adapter and a 1-year satellite radio subscription; the Sport Package (an increased top-speed limiter, sport seats and adaptive M suspension) for $2,300 and a further bump-up to 19-inch alloy V-spoke wheels for $1,200.

But thats not all. The 7-speed double clutch transmission (which includes a sport steering wheel with paddles, Servotronic and a multi-function steering wheel) was also on the list for $1,575. Those extra gears pay off in improved fuel economy...EPA estimates 17 city/ 24 highway.

$400 for the anti-theft alarm system, $500 for Comfort Access keyless entry, $500 for heated front seats, $2,100 for an excellent navigation system and an $875 destination charge brought ours to a bottom line of $66,200.

And you know what? Its worth it. Its three things: A brilliant car for driving, a work of art to look at, and over the long haul, an investment. Mark my words...this is a classic in our time. A car that 30 years from now and beyond youll look at and say "I wish Id bought one".  Any one of those things would be enough to secure the Z4 a slot on TireKickers Top 10 Cars (So Far). All three? Its a lock.

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2011 Ford Fiesta Review

                    Front 3/4 view of red 2011 Ford Fiesta sedan

When I wrote the first drive impressions of the 2011 Ford Fiesta and promised a full review soon, I had no idea that TireKicker would be taking an unexpected two week vacation...but we did and now were back and item one has to be to fill in the blanks left by the early look at this very significant car for Ford.

The basic first impressions (a quantum leap forward for American small cars, a serious threat to future Focus sales until we get the Euro-spec model of the Fiestas bigger brother) all hold true.

But I see I used the word "roomy". I was so eager to get behind the wheel that I neglected to sit in the back seat. After I posted the first drive, my 5 foot 11 son sat back there...or tried to. It wasnt pleasant. And it wasnt much better for my 5 foot 4 daughter. That large trunk that I mentioned came at the expense of rear seat legroom. And while none of the cars in this class (Toyota Yaris, Nissan Versa, Honda Fit, Chevy Aveo) are limos, some of them...especially the Yaris and Versa...are better.


                         Side view of red 2011 Ford Fiesta sedan

Coincidentally, I had a Yaris sedan the same week, and was able to drive them back-to-back. While the Fiesta dazzled with its newness, edginess and content, the Yaris had more rear and front-seat comfort, a quieter cabin and a smoother ride.  And it was a few hundred dollars cheaper, too...staying under $19,000 ( The Yaris had the Sport package, a $3500 option that adds alloy wheels, spoilers, foglamps, leather trimming, power everything and an upgraded audio system) while the as-tested price of the Fiesta hit $19,600 (base for the SEL sedan is $16,320).

Gas mileage was a wash....the Yaris delivering 32 miles per gallon in an even split of urban street and freeway driving, the Fiesta 31.


                       Interior view of 2011 Ford Fiesta

Honestly, both the Fiesta and the Yaris are way out of the target zone when their stickers get that close to $20K. You can get Corollas, Sentras and Civics (not to mention the 2011 VW Jetta) for that kind of money.The base Yaris sedan starts at $13,365...the base Fiesta at $13,320. Thats where the battle in entry-level sedans is likely to be fought.

But will the sedans be the main focus? The Fiesta that makes the biggest splash visually is the five-door hatchback...and the base price for that is $15,120...a big step up, especially when you consider the Yaris 5-door hatch starts at $12,905 (lower than the Yaris sedan price).

The Fiesta leads the class in style...leaving the frumpy Yaris in the dust both in terms of exterior and interior. But these are entry-level vehicles. And while Europeans have a keen understanding of the term "premium compact", the Fiestas going to have to make a value argument to drivers from the land of Wal-Mart. That could turn out to be a very tall order.

UPDATE:  Weve now had a chance to drive the 5-door Fiesta...in Blue Flame metallic, like so:


Blue 2011 Ford Fiesta 5-door parked in rural setting

Its the same strengths and shortcomings as with the sedan above, but this time, Ford sent an SE model. And that brings the value equation back into line. The base price for the 5-door SE is $1200 less than the SEL sedan, at $15,120, as mentioned above. And the options list was kept to a minimum: Rapid Spec 203A (SYNC, 80 watt premium audio system, a sport appearance package, crusie control, 15 inch painted aluminum wheels and front parking lamps with black bezels) for $1,245...Ambient lighting and Sirius Satellite radio packaged together for $370...and heated front seats for $195.

With destination charges, it addes up to $17,605, but theres a "Rapid Spec Discount" of $490...so the bottom line works out to $17,115.

EPA estimates say 37 highway/28 city. 

At this price, its worthy of inclusion in your shopping.

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Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Feds Toyota Death Toll 52 Since 2000



The Detroit News says the government has updated the number of people killed in accidents linked to unintended acceleration in the past ten years. Its now at 52.  Details here.
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Tuesday, June 18, 2013

First Look 2014 Jeep Cherokee UPDATED with more photos


Dark blue 2014 Jeep Cherokee at the seashore

We knew Jeep was going to do something different. This is the 2014 Jeep Cherokee, which will replace the Liberty.

2014 Jeep Cherokee driving on mountain road


Chrysler (Jeeps parent company) is promising best-in-class capability, it will be Trail Rated and it brings back a beloved Jeep model name.

Head on shot of the 2014 Jeep Cherokee driving on a two-lane road

But the styling seems to be a love it or hate it thing, based on early response in the Twitterverse. Our guess is its going to look great (if a tad cartoonish) in dark colors with the right wheels, but may not work so well otherwise.

What do you think of it? Comment below.


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Monday, June 17, 2013

Unintended Acceleration Does It Come From Outer Space


The Detroit Free Press is reporting that NHTSA is looking into the possiblity that Toyotas sudden acceleration issues (assuming they have any apart from people standing on the wrong pedal) might be linked to cosmic rays.

Full article and a link to the .pdf of the anonymous tip to the Feds from "A concerned scientist" (really) here.
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Thursday, June 13, 2013

U S Transportation Secretary Stop Driving Recalled Toyotas


Park em if you got em. Thats the word from United States Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood.

CNN reports that LaHood told a House of Representatives committee today that his advice to owners of Toyota vehicles currently under recall notices is to "stop driving it and take it to a Toyota dealer."

Thats millions of owners and millions of cars.

Critics of the governments handling of this recall are starting to use the phrase "fear-mongering" and are pointing out that the government has a conflict of interest, since it owns a stake in two competing automakers...General Motors and Chrysler. 

Maybe. Maybe not.

Toyota owners, what say you?

UPDATE: Upon leaving the hearing, LaHood backtracked...




Proving that confidence-eroding moments arent limited to automakers.

NEXT-DAY UPDATE: Reuters reports that LaHoods comments, pre-retraction, caused Toyota shares to drop 6.14%...or about $7 billion.
Read more »

Wednesday, June 12, 2013

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD
Having launched the Mazda 5 2-wheel drive version 2WD, Mazda Motor Corporation (MMC), began marketing the Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV) Mazda Primacy or outside of Japan called the Mazda 5 four-wheel type (Four Wheel Drive/4WD). Mazda MPV admitted combines elements of style, comfort, and unique functions. Mazda 5 is also equipped with idling-stop system technology (i-stop). Devices that make the Mazda 5 is claimed as an environmentally friendly car.

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD, Devices that function to disable the engine when the car stopped for a moment in the queue, traffic jam, or stop in front of traffic lights. As a result, the intake of fuel into the combustion chamber was temporarily stopped. After the driver stepped on the gas, the device automatically re-activate the machine.

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD

Another uniqueness owned Mazda 5 is the 4WD version, drivers can choose whether to use force driving two-wheel drive system or four wheels. Motorists simply press the button that choice. Brand-new MPV is going dibanderol 1, 799-2, 314 million yen or approximately.

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD

Indeed, this MPV has been produced since 1999. Five years later - in 2005 - Mazda compact family car, received a touch of change. Thus, the model began to be produced is a third generation.

Car Reviews Mazda 5 4WD

Mazda claims to date Mazda Primacy has sold 81 thousand units and scattered in various parts of the world. The manufacturer claims that newer models have a level 15 percent lower emissions than previous models without engine 2,000 cc i-stop feature.

Another advantage offered is a spacious cabin capacity because the seats can be arranged flexibly. In addition, with sliding doors (sliding door) on both sides of the rear passengers to make access in and out easier too.
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Tuesday, June 11, 2013

News Fiat Increasing Stake In Chrysler No Immediate Plans To Merge

Chrysler logo 

Looks like Fiats going to increase its stake in Chrysler to 51% before the IPO comes along. But a full-on merger?  Sergio says "not now".

Full story from The Detroit News.
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Monday, June 10, 2013

House Committee Subpoenas Documents From Former Toyota Counsel Toyota Had Filed Injunction To Prevent Their Release


The same House committee (Oversight and Government Reform) before which Toyota President Akio Toyoda will testify next week about the automakers gas pedal recall has subpoenaed records in the possession of former Toyota American National Managing Counsel Dimitrios Biller.

Biller told ABC News earlier this month that Toyota had tried to hide "evidence of safety defects from consumers and regulators and fostered a culture of hypocrisy and deceit." Biller said he had documents in his possession that would validate that claim.

Toyota filed an injunction preventing Biller from releasing those documents, but the House committee subpoena overrules that.

The complete news release from the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is here.
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Sunday, June 9, 2013

2011 Honda CR Z Review


Side view of white 2011 Honda CR-Z Hybrid
The 2011 Honda CR-Z .
Period photo of 1984-1987 Honda CR-X
Your fathers CR-Z, the mid-1980s Honda CR-X.

The bottom picture is of the much-loved 1984-87 Honda CR-X. If you are between 45 and 65, you either had one back then or knew at least one (and probably more than one) person who did.

Will the new Honda CR-Z (top photo) have that same kind of impact a quarter-century later? Good question. A lot has changed in that time.

Surprisingly, the higher tech of the CR-Z doesnt mean higher mileage. The 1984 CR-X, with a 1.3 liter gasoline-powered four cylinder and a five-speed manual transmission, had an EPA estimate of 36 mpg city/45 highway. And as the owner of an 84 Civic Sedan at the time, I can tell you thats the closest to Gospel the EPAs come in a long time.

The CR-Z has a 1.5 liter four...combined with Hondas Integrated Motor Assist. Yep, its a hybrid...and it is mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission. Progress! Technology! As Thomas Dolby famously yelled when the CR-X was new, "Science!".

Except the EPA estimate for the CR-Z is 35 city/39 highway.

There are explanations for that. One is that regulations and consumer preferences have added so much weight to todays cars that its not as easy to get great mileage as it was 27 years ago. The CR-X and the Civic it was based on were simple cars...manual everything, air and even a radio were dealer-installed options. And they were light...the CR-X weighed 1,819 pounds. The CR-Z EX with Navigation (the model we tested) tips the scales at 2,707 pounds. 

Thats just short of NINE HUNDRED pounds more from 1984 to 2011. Theres a Kirstie Alley analogy just begging to be drawn here, but neither her lawyers nor Hondas would probably find it amusing, so well just move on and consider the CR-Z on its own merits.

Front 3/4 view of white 2011 Honda CR-Z parked
The 2011 Honda CR-Z. Leaving tuners and customizers little to work with.

First of all, Honda markets the CR-Z as a "Sport Hybrid". It certainly scores on looks. In fact, the aftermarket has its work cut out for it to make the CR-Z look any more wicked than it already does.

Its available with a six-speed manual transmission rather than the CVT...and our advice is take it. Shift it yourself. It is, in fact, the first manual-transmission hybrid on the market. The CR-Z also has three driving modes, Sport, Normal and Eco. In the interests of maxmimizing mileage, we ran for a couple of days in Eco mode (ours had the CVT). It was, to put it charitably, slow. Normal was decent, considering the limitations, but still a big letdown from the fun factor the exterior promised.  Sport....now theres the ticket...but again, it would be better with the six-speed manual.

Interior shot of 2011 Honda CR-Z
2011 Honda CR-Z interior. These days, this passes for restraint at Honda.


The interior is the first Honda interior in a long time that didnt feel overwrought. I mean, there are gimmicks...it could be simpler...but its more attractive than the current (or even the new 2012) Civic instrument panel.

Pricings on target. The CR-Z with a six-speed is $19,345. With a CVT, its $19,995...and youre adding weight. Move up to the EX with a six-speed and youll pay $20,905 ($21,555 for the CVT), but the audio system goes from 160 watts to 360 (its very good), you get fog lamps, HID headlamps, Bluetooth, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob and textured aluminum pedals.

And then theres the one we drove: The EX Navi. $22,705 with a six-speed, $23,355 for the CVT. The only addition is a voice-recognition navigation system. Say it with me..."My phone can do that".

Our pick: The EX six-speed. It gets you the better audio system, headlamps, foglamps and Bluetooth for $20,905. Flip the switch to "Sport" and have a blast. No, you wont get anything like the EPA estimates of 35 city/39 highway. So what? Thats not what anyone is going to buy this car for anyway. Its a nice engineering and PR exercise, but if youre really about saving the planet, the underrated Civic Hybrid is a ton more practical and gets 44 in the city and on the highway.

Boiled down to the basics, the CR-Z isnt a sporty hybrid, its a sporty car that happens to be a hybrid...the spiritual successor to the CR-X that, because of weight and complexity, can only get acceptable mileage while driven agressively through the use of a hybrid system. And theres nothing wrong with that. In fact, if it hadnt been for the hybrid, Honda most likely wouldnt have built the car. Better living through technology.





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Saturday, June 8, 2013

Replacing the windshield on the WHA 2101 2107

On the road, anything can happen. Happens - the wheel "strelnet" happens - the carburetor haywire. A happens, suddenly a stone fly from under the vehicle in front and straight into the windshield. If the glass is tempered - instantly to smithereens, as if - "triplex" that covered "Lobovikov" cracks, so much so that sometimes can not see through him, nothing at all. In most cases, on modern cars windshield glued to the sealing rubber band and replace it yourself without a special glue is simply impossible. But this does not apply to our good "classic". Replace "Lobovikov" on the classical model of VAZ there is no difficulty. However, not all alone - always need help with a second person. So, before you start to change, you must all prepare. You need to have a new sealing gum, which keeps the glass, a new string key called in common "lock", silicone cream, a long rope, sealant or anticorrelation and helper tools. Oh, and of course, a new windshield. In order to remove the old "Lobovikov, you must first remove the" locking "of the sealing rubber. After that, one man gently squeezes inside the glass, and the second from the outside to stick with it, so it is not broke on the hood. Once the old glass is removed, the metal frame will be perfectly visible rust streaks that still seeped through the seal gum. All these "troubles" it is better to clean up with fine emery cloth and handle the anticorrosive. Once the frame is dry, you can install a new windshield. The sealing gum and a "lock" from time to time lose their elasticity and become rough, and sometimes fragile. Therefore, the old gum can not spare to send to the trash can. New gum neatly put on a new windshield. By itself, some form of gum, Contour-glass, so you need to properly wear it. On the outside of the gum is a slot in which to get the car window frame. This groove is embedded rope and raised edges frame promazyvayutsya silicone cream for better gliding on them the seal gum. Then one person from the inside starts to pull the rope and the other outside the tightly pressed against the glass to the body. Thus quietly gum grabbed a frame around the perimeter and glass will be in place. The last operation - installation of "lock" to seal the gum. That he does not jump out of the glass gum, it was he who presses the gum to the body and prevents the penetration of rain (or other) water inside the cabin. Installing the "castle" - the work tedious, but should not act hastily and should not be used for this sharp objects - knives, scissors, screwdrivers, because it is likely to cut their seal. All the glass in place. It remains only to wipe it carefully and you can go! Do you urgently need money? Then buying battered car for you. Experienced specialist in one hour will come to you and assess your car. Calculation on the spot.

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Friday, June 7, 2013

Replacing the valve stem seals on the VAZ 2101 2107

Signs of wear and valve stem seals on the classics, as well as on other cars, is the increased oil consumption, blue smoke during peregazovki, when you first start the engine in the morning, starting from the crossroads. This is due to drip oil on the valve stem caps are worn through. To resolve this problem, you will need the following tools: wrenches 8 * 10, preferably tubular, rassuharivatel for the classics, for the "nines" a little different, to cap remover and a special mandrel to set the caps. First, removed valve cover. Then you put tags on the engine. On the crankshaft and on the control they need to match. Loosen the chain - unscrew the two nuts on the tensioner key 10. Use a screwdriver to bend open the lock bolts raspredvalnoy stars, unscrew the bolt at 17. She then carefully removed and, together with a chain attached to the hood, so as not to fall in lobovinu. Candles can be turned out, because when rassuharivanii valves, they will have to hold inside. Further unwound and dismantled the camshaft. If you follow the instructions, the valve is desirable to relax, but you can not do this. Then, together with the springs removed rockers. Try, so they do not messed up, and lay in the order in which had been withdrawn. Getting to the replacement caps. Selected rod diameter of about 6-8 mm, or a long screwdriver, to support the valves. Rassuharivatel established for each valve in different places. Setting rassuharivatel on any of the first cylinder valve, trying to push. Feeling that the valve budged, insert the candle into the hole rod or screwdriver and groped valve plate, is running out for her. At the same time dramatically, but not much pressure on the lever rassuharivatelya. Freed crackers carefully with good magnetic screwdriver to remove the upper plate. Then removed 2pruzhiny. The valve can be gently lower into the cylinder until it stops. With the collet is removed old zadubevshy cap. Can be removed and a screwdriver, but it is likely broken valve guide. Then check the status of the valve stem and guide, and making sure that there is no backlash, we establish a mandrel new cap. This operation is repeated with the remaining valves. The assembly is performed in reverse order.

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Thursday, June 6, 2013

Ford Firm On Flex Future

Okay, that headline is either an audition for a gig at Daily Variety or a desperate cry for help.

But thats not important now.

The Ford Flex was supposed to be The Answer. The way forward from minivans. In fact, Ford stopped making its Freestar minivan and the Taurus X crossover in the belief that the Flex would deliver those (few) customers and a bunch more.

Hasnt happened.

Days go by...sometimes weeks...before I see a Flex on the streets of the car-crazy metropolis of four million souls in which I live and drive, a place where youd die of internal bleeding if there were a "punch dub" game for minivans, Tahoes and even Suburbans.

Only 12,598 Flexes left dealerships for driveways and garages in the first four months of this year...which puts it on track to do less than 40,000 units sold in 2010. Not the stuff of which hits are made.

Still, Ford says its happy. Why? They told the Detroit Free Press.
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Wednesday, June 5, 2013

Polishing a car with his hands

Before you start polishing machine, wash and dry. After this purchase all necessary materials and grinding wheels. There are several ways of polishing. To fulfill the first method, you must have a polishing machine. But it can be used only under the condition that has experience in dealing with this device. The second - with the help of hands: in a few days the machine will simply shine. In order to apply the third method, we should drill with paddle. This option is complicated to use, but it is entirely realistic. First need polishing paste, as well as a circle. Circle can be as wool and paralonovym. Yet it is desirable to buy the wool, the reason being that when drying the paste, while washing it will not crumble, as it happens when using paralonovogo krguga. That is, when the decision to apply the manual polishing, you need to buy woolen cloth. Now you have to buy polishing paste, taking into account the state of car paint coating. For example, melkoabrazivnuyu paste, if polishing is the first time. Because the application of the paste with a large or medium abrasive, it is likely that protretsya cover up the soil. Unlimited choice of pasta. Best buy professional from ZM. After this is acquired skin with the number 2000-2500. You can and 1500, but if you're doing yourself polishing the first time, this is undesirable. Masking tape as necessary. Having bought all the necessary, proceed to polishing. It consists of four phases. At first remove the layer of paint, no erased from the body of car with sandpaper. Do not forget even the smallest scratches. For that would not remove the entire layer of varnish, we should all hold very cautiously and carefully. And do not worry, it's entirely standard process. Using masking tape sticking gum and polyethylene to seal the surface of glass, plastic parts, and all that without the paint. This operation is carried out for whatever and then remove the dried polish. The most critical point is very polished. To carry out this operation must take polishing paste and apply it to the surface of the body. Then, using the spray, the surface moisture and polishing pad. Take the polishing machine, include the minimum number of revolutions and feather a toothpaste all over the body surface. In the future the number of revolutions can be increased to 1500. Sanders do not need to pull and move in different directions, it must be led gently horizontally, then vertically and vice versa. If you are drying the paste, then soften it with water. During polishing should not apply pressure, and prevent overheating of the surface, because you can burn the paint. To begin the polishing process should start with the trunk and polishing paste prior to the disappearance. Handle edges, because you can wipe up the ground in these places. Polishing process takes 8-10 hours. Protective wax is applied on top.

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Tuesday, June 4, 2013

Nissan Cube SL Review




Its been nine months since our last drive in a Nissan Cube...and weve learned one thing. With this vehicle, a lot depends on how you equip it.

Last time around, it was a very sparsely equipped base model. This time around, Nissan sent the SL ($17,130), which gets you interior upgrades, a nice AM/FM/CD/mp3 audio system with 8 speakers, Bluetooth and premium grade seat fabric. Makes a huge difference.



                        

And Nissan went even further...the SL Preferred Package ($1800) brought Nissan Intelligent Key, a pushbutton ignition, a further upgrade to the audio system with a color display and USB connectivity, six upgraded speakers with a Rockford Fosgate woofer, XM satellite radio, a rearview camera, and fog lights.

The Ginormous Package (really...$2500) added an Aero kit, 20-color interior accent lighting, illuminated stainless steel kick plates, a custom grille, hood molding accent, chrome front fascia accent, cargo area protector and an 8-piece interior trim applique set that goes around the HVAC vents other spots on the dash with a faux carbon fiber look.

And, for $250, the Interior Designer Package gets the carpeted floormats, carpeted cargo area mat, shag dash topper and front door bungees (for securing plush traveling companions, dont you know).

Oh, yeah...and $100 for a vehicle alarm impact sensor.

That and destination charges get you to $22,330. Which is a lot of money for a car that competes primarily in the $15-18K segment with the Kia Soul and Scion xB.  But it was very, very likeable. To the point that both my wife and daughter were talking about how theyd be perfectly fine with one of these (hint, hint).

I will say that it is enormously comfortable (aided by the better fabrics), far roomier and more cargo-capable than youd expect, and peppier (there is no better word) than the continuously variable transmission mated to an engine with a 122 horsepower rating would have you believe. But the value equation at 22 and change is a hard sell...at least to me.

EPA estimates: 27 city/31 highway.



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Monday, June 3, 2013

New Car Review 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO


Front 3/4 view of blue 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO.

Comes now our third test of a Chevrolet Cruze in the past five months. Each one has been a different flavor. We started out with the loaded Chevrolet Cruze LTZ. Loved it, but for $24,000 and change as tested, wed better have.

Then just about two months ago, it was almost the opposite end of the spectrum...the Chevrolet Cruze 1LT (one level up from the base Cruze).  Also a thumbs-up, and at a more reasonable $18,995.

Now its the Chevrolet Cruze ECO. What makes an ECO an ECO? Well, mostly its the 1.4 liter ECOTEC engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission with ECO overdrive. But to tell it apart from the other Cruzes in traffic, youll probably have to look at the trunklid.




The discreet "ECO" badge on trunklid of blue 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO
The lone giveaway...the discreet "eco" badge on the trunklid of the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO.

If the ECO otherwise looks like a well-equipped Cruze, thats because it is. The base price of $19,245 brings with it the expected practicalities (stability control, ABS, multiple airbags) and some uplevel niceties that the ECO name doesnt imply (security system, keyless entry, OnStar, tire pressure monitor, deluxe cloth seat trim, USB, Bluetooth, XM, a tilting, telescoping, leather-wrapped steering wheel, 17 inch alloy wheels and an Aero Performance Package...lower front grille air shutter, mid-body aero panels and front fascia air dam).

Now, that Aero package, while making the Cruze ECO look sporty, is actually there in service of the ECOs primary mission...fuel economy. Through aids like that, the substitution of a tire sealant and inflator kit for a spare tire, a smaller gas tank (12.6 gallons instead of the 15.6 gallons in other Cruze models), economy-minded gearing and the marvels of computers working to squeeze every mile out of every drop of fuel, the ECO takes the same 138-horsepower 1.4-liter turbocharged four cylinder and gets an EPA estimated 28 city/42 highway miles per gallon. Its 24/36 in the 1LT and LTZ.


Two-tone interior of 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO
The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO interior.

Of course, as the EPA says "your mileage may vary", and as my Dad used to say "its all about the nut holding the wheel". Our friend and colleague Nina Russin at Carspondent got 44.8 miles per gallon driving it like she stole it. A week later, it was in my hands and in 300 miles (about 20% urban freeway and the rest city streets), I only managed 29.2.

Still, thats in the ballpark for the EPA city estimate, and not a lot of cars get there. In fact, most dont. And overall, the ECO is our favorite Cruze. It looks good, is well equipped, has a nice interior and one of the best manual shifters weve found in a domestic car (not Honda-level, but close).  Ours had one option, the Driver Convenience Package, which gives the driver a six-way power-adjustable seat and rear parking assist for $495. So with a $750 destination charge, the bottom line was $20,490.  Thats a sweet spot for a car in this class and with this level of equipment.

2012 Chevrolet Cruze ECO

Base price: $19,245

As tested: $20,490

Likes: Styling, comfort, economy, slick manual shifter.

Dislikes: USB not fully compatible with iPhone.

EPA estimate: 28 mpg city/42 mpg highway.
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Sunday, June 2, 2013

Dodge Challenger SE Review


So you want a Dodge Challenger, but cant swing either the price or insurance or gas for the Hemi-powered R/T or SRT-8?

$750 buys you the cosmetics that will make your six-cylinder SE look pretty darn good.

Its called the Rallye Group. 18" aluminum wheels, a bright fuel filler door, dual stripes, a carbon-fiber looking bezel on the instrument panel and a body-colored rear spoiler.

                             


Our tester was just as you see above...bright silver metallic with black stripes. It actually got more admiring looks than the last red Challenger that came through...possibly because those are seen so often.

Best part of the deal is the SEs base price of $22,735. Second best is the gas mileage: 17 city/25 highway.

If you can restrain yourself to the SE with the Rallye package, youll come in around $26,200 with destination charges. But the tester Dodge sent loaded it up...Preferred Package 250, Sound Group, Leather Interior Group, Power Sunroof, Media Center....running the tab up to $31,175.

With my own money? Maybe the Sound Group for $645 (the media center is $1775 and while the hard drive and steering wheel controls are nice, most of that money is for a nav system...and Im on the record as saying those are never money well spent....not when your cell phone probably has GPS mapping)...which would land just this side of 27 large.

At only 250 horsepower, you will get smoked at the stoplights by six-cylinder Camaros and Mustangs (and thats just the 2010 models...not the steroid sixes in the 2011 models)...but if its looks youre after, this is pretty sweet.
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Saturday, June 1, 2013

News Caroll Shelby 1923 2012

Ol Shel, the man who gave us the Cobra, the Mustang GT350 and so much more, died last night of complications from pneumonia. The best Carroll Shelby story Ive ever heard is largely true, and was told by none other than Bill Cosby onstage at Harrahs Tahoe in 1968. Its also one of the best stories, period...and a masterpiece of stand-up comedy:
      
                              
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