2008 CAR REVIEWS

2008 Honda Odyssey Summary

2008-01-16T10:05:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Odyssey is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger mini van, available in 7 trims, ranging from the LX to the Touring w/ PAX Tires. Upon introduction, the LX is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 244-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. The Touring w/ PAX Tires is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 241-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims. The 2008 Odyssey is freshened for 2008.

2008 Toyota Sienna

2008-01-16T10:01:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Sienna is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger mini van, available in 9 trims, ranging from the CE FWD with 7 Passenger Seating to the XLE Limited AWD. Upon introduction, the CE FWD with 7 Passenger Seating is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 266-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. The XLE Limited AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 266-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 21-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims. The 2008 Sienna is a carryover from 2007.

2008 Dodge Grand Caravan Summary

2008-01-06T07:10:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Grand Caravan is a 4-door, 7-passenger mini van, available in two trims, the SE and the SXT. Upon introduction, the SE is equipped with a standard 3.3-liter, V6, NL-horsepower engine. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The SXT is equipped with a standard 3.8-liter, V6, NL-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2008 Grand Caravan is redesigned for 2008. Key Technical Specs Standard Engine 3.3L V6 Standard Transmission 4 Speed Automatic Cylinders 6 Horsepower @ RPM NL@NL Torque @ RPM NL@NL (foot-lbs)

2008 Ford F-150 SuperCrew 4X4 Summary

2008-01-06T07:07:00.000-08:00

The 2008 F-150 SuperCrew 4X4 is a 4-door, up to 6-passenger full size pickup, available in 10 trims, ranging from the 139-in. WB XL Styleside to the 150-in. WB Lariat Styleside. Upon introduction, the 139-in. WB XL Styleside is equipped with a standard 4.6-liter, V8, 248-horsepower engine. The 150-in. WB Lariat Styleside is equipped with a standard 5.4-liter, V8, 300-horsepower engine. A 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims. The 2008 F-150 SuperCrew 4X4 is a carryover from 2007. Key Technical Specs Standard Engine 4.6L V8 Standard Transmission 4 Speed Automatic Cylinders 8 Horsepower @ RPM 248@4750 Torque @ RPM 294@4000 (foot-lbs)

2008 Scion xB Summary

2008-01-05T06:44:00.000-08:00

The 2008 xB is a 4-door, 5-passenger wagon, available in one trim only, the 5-Door Wagon. Upon introduction, the xB is equipped with a standard 2.4-liter, I4, 158-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2008 xB is redesigned for 2008. Key Technical Specs Standard Engine 2.4L I4 Standard Transmission 5 Speed Manual Cylinders 4 Horsepower @ RPM 158@6000 Torque @ RPM 162@4000 (foot-lbs)

2008 Land Rover LR2 Summary

2008-01-05T06:42:00.001-08:00

The 2008 LR2 is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in one trim only, the SE.

Upon introduction, the LR2 is equipped with a standard 3.2-liter, I6, 230-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 23-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2008 LR2 is all-new for 2008.

Key Technical Specs
Standard Engine
3.2L I6
Standard Transmission
6 Speed Automatic
Cylinders
6
Horsepower @ RPM
230@6300
Torque @ RPM
234@3200 (foot-lbs)

2008 Ford Shelby GT500 Summary

2008-01-04T02:40:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Shelby GT500 is a 2-door, 4-passenger sports car, or convertible sports car, available in two trims, the Coupe and the Convertible. Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 5.4-liter, V8, 500-horsepower, supercharged engine. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2008 Shelby GT500 is a carryover from 2007.

Key Technical Specs
Standard Engine
5.4L V8
Standard Transmission
6 Speed Manual
Cylinders
8
Horsepower @ RPM
500@6000
Torque @ RPM
480@4500 (foot-lbs)

2008 Toyota Corolla Summary

2008-01-04T02:34:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Corolla is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 3 trims, ranging from the CE to the LE. Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 1.8-liter, I4, 126-horsepower engine that achieves 28-mpg in the city and 37-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 4-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The 2008 Corolla is a carryover from 2007.

Key Technical Specs
Standard Engine
1.8L I4
Standard Transmission
5 Speed Manual
Cylinders
4
Horsepower @ RPM
126@6000
Torque @ RPM
122@4200 (foot-lbs)

2008 Dodge Viper Summary

2007-12-31T22:17:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Viper is a 2-door, 2-passenger sports car, or convertible sports car, available in two trims, the SRT-10 Convertible and the SRT-10 Coupe.

Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 8.4-liter, V10, 600-horsepower engine. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2008 Viper is restyled for 2008.

Standard Engine:
8.4L V10, 20 valve, 600 hp @ 6100 rpm

* 6 speed manual transmission
* Not Available city / Not Available hwy
* Green Rating: Unavailable

2008 Chevrolet Corvette

2007-12-31T22:15:00.000-08:00

2008 Chevrolet Corvette Summary The 2008 Corvette is a 2-door, 2-passenger sports car, or convertible sports car, available in 10 trims, ranging from the Coupe LT1 to the Z06 LZ3. Upon introduction, the Coupe LT1 is equipped with a standard 6.2-liter, V8, 430-horsepower engine. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard, and a 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is optional. The Z06 LZ3 is equipped with a standard 7.0-liter, V8, 505-horsepower engine. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The 2008 Corvette is a carryover from 2007. Standard Engine: 6.2L V8, 16 valve, 430 hp @ 5900 rpm * 6 speed manual (standard) or 6 speed automatic transmission * Not Available city / Not Available hwy * Green Rating: Unavailable

Ferrari 430 Scuderia

2007-12-29T04:58:00.000-08:00

Like the 360 Challenge Stradale before it, the Scuderia takes Ferrari's established V-8 supercar and makes it even better.

A quick spin in a Ferrari F430 is enough to make anyone - non-car enthusiasts included - appreciate the mystique of the prancing horse marque. The F430 positively screams "race car!" and demands complete driver involvement, whether speeding down the road or around a track; its handling agility is amazing, and the high-revving engine note is mesmerizing. For 2008, the F430's tightly wound energy meter is about to spin off the chart with the introduction of the 430 Scuderia, which is comparable in mission to the 360 Challenge Stradale version of the 360 Modena, but with numerous technical improvements. The 430 Scuderia's midship 4.3-liter V-8 is the same basic engine seen in the F430. But thanks to revised intake and exhaust, a new piston shape and a higher compression ratio (all managed by an updated ECU), power gets bumped from 483 to 503 bhp. Expect the exhaust note to sound racier as well. The F1 paddle-shift transmission has been upgraded to shift gears in a mere 60 milli-seconds, an impressive improvement compared with the F430's 150 milli-seconds and the 599 GTB Fiorano's 100. New traction control on the Scuderia combines the electronic differential and yaw control into one system. Weight-saving measures such as titanium suspension components, as well as a carbon-fiber undertray, dash, seats and steering wheel, plus reshaped composite front and rear bumpers, allow the Scuderia to shave off about 220 lb. from the standard F430.

2009 Nissan GT-R -The most anticipated sports car in the U.S., the Nissan GT-R, has been revealed.

2007-12-29T04:55:00.000-08:00

This is it! The most anticipated sports car in the U.S., the Nissan GT-R, has been revealed and is making its North American debut at the 2007 Los Angeles Auto Show. So what you see here is the full, undisguised GT-R in all its glory.

The most notable modification is to the face. Gone is the "running mascara" beneath the headlights, replaced by a body-colored bumper, which makes the face look much cleaner and more elegant. Some say the car looks like an F-18 fighter jet on wheels while others feel that it belongs on the set of Transformers. Either way, the styling speaks volumes of what this car is capable of on the open road.

Under the hood a 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-6 that pumps out 480 bhp and about 430 lb.-ft. of torque. Nissan claims that the GT-R runs to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds, which puts it in Porsche 911 Turbo territory. In fact, GT-R project chief, Kazutoshi Mizuno, says that the GT-R lapped the famed North Course at the Nürburgring faster than the Porsche 911 Turbo. Not bad for a car that we hear will cost about $70,000. The car goes on sale first in Japan, then in the summer of 2008 in the U.S. as a 2009 model. R&T was the only magazine to drive a U.S.-spec model. Check out our feature story in the January issue of Road & Track.

2008 Mazda Tribute Review - A Review of the 2008 Mazda Tribute SUV

2007-12-21T19:55:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Mazda Tribute is equipped with 4- wheel independent suspension, premium entertainment system and storage, and latest safety features only Mazda can offer. Impressive new features include the Tribute's "Triple H" body construction, 5- speed manual front- wheel drive transmission, 4- speed electronically controlled automatic transmission and electronic power- assisted rack- and- pinion steering with engine speed sensing variable assist.

The 2008 Mazda Tribute has several exterior features that help give it its attractive appearance. It has 16- inch alloy wheels and P235/ 70R16 BSW 7- rated all- season tires that can overcome the roughest roads. Both fog lights and headlights are made of clear lens halogen. Moreover, it comes with 2- speed variable- intermittent windshield coupled with 2- speed variable fixed- intermittent rear wiper with washer. Privacy- tint glass and green- tinted windshield glass and front windows provide superior protection against harmful rays.

Interior features speak of elegance with 60/40 split fold- down rear seatback and reclining front bucket seats with adjustable headrest. The Tribute, though sleek, provide exemplary comfort through its driver- side footrest, 6- way power driver's seat with lumbar support, remote hood release and battery saver. It comes with the standard AM/FM/CD audio system, digital clock, and auxiliary jack. It also has 190 watt AM/FM in- dash 6- disc CD changer with 7 speakers.

The Tribute was designed with safety in mind. It comes with the latest safety features from Mazda like Roll Stability Control, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Traction Control System for superior handling. Advanced dual front airbags with crash zone, seat weight sensors, 3- point safety belts, and side- impact air curtains with rollover protection are also available. ISO FIX, LATCH rear seat child safety-seat lower anchors and upper ceiling mounted tethers and rear door locks provide security especially to children.

The lively 2.3L DOHC 16- valve 4- cylinder engine with 153@ 5800 rpm horsepower and 152@ 4250 rpm torque guarantee quality performance. Meanwhile, its active Torque Control Coupling Electronic 4- wheel drive speaks of efficiency and speed.

Mazda's 2008 Tribute is a car that combines power and entertainment, making it one of the best new models this year.

2008 Pontiac G5 Review - A Review of the 2008 Pontiac G5 Coupe

2007-12-21T19:54:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Pontiac G5 is a reasonable choice for a sporty small coupe. It comes with impressive new features specifically with regards to acceleration, ride performance, and fuel economy. Although it lacks exterior and interior refinements, this new model boasts of powerful engines.

The '08 Pontiac G5 model is actually patterned after the Chevrolet Cobalt coupe. Except for very minor differences in exterior and interior designs, the two are almost the same. The G5 takes pride in its sporty profile and respectably powerful engines all at a very affordable price. In addition, it is also a product of General Motors' "Designed for Action" brand.

The 2008 G5 is a compact sport coupe available in two trims, namely the base and the GT. The base G5 includes 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, and remote keyless entry. In addition, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, satellite radio an a CD/MP3 player with an auxiliary audio jack. To these, the GT trim adds 17-inch aluminum wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, foglamps, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, steering-wheel-mounted audio and cruise controls. Meanwhile, superb entertainment is provided by a Pioneer seven-speaker audio system. Furthermore, a six-CD changer, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a sunroof and remote vehicle starting are also available in both models. You may also personalize the Pontiac G5 by installing other accessories like 18-inch wheels, cat-back exhaust system, custom-colored interior lighting, high-mount spoiler and a body ground-effects package.

The base G5 is powered by a 2.2-liter inline four-cylinder with 148 horsepower and 152 pound-feet of torque. On the other hand, a 2.4-liter engine generating 141 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque powers the GT. Both trims are connected to a standard five-speed manual transmission with an option of a four-speed automatic transmission.

When it comes to safety, the GT has four-wheel antilock disc brakes while the base G5 comes with rear drums. Full-length side curtain airbags are standard too.

The 2008 Pontiac G5 gives adequate power and renders a smooth ride. However, this may not be a very good choice for those who look for an exciting behind-the-wheel experience because it lacks handling response and overall refinement.

2008 Alfa 147 CNC C0STUME NATIONAL

2007-12-20T05:54:00.001-08:00

The Alfa Romeo is an Italian automobile manufacturing company, founded in 1910 in Milan, Italy. Originally known as ALFA, which is an acronym meaning Anonima Lombarda Fabbrica Automobili. Nicola Romeo purchased ALFA in 1915. His surname was used as the company name. G1 in 1920 was the first car designed by the company. In Frankfurt was the introduction of the new 147 CNC COSTUME NATIONAL. It is the result of the cooperation between Alfa Romeo and stylist Ennio Capasa. It is supposedly influenced by the world of music Pop, Indie. It is also inspired by the Garage by street culture and by the world of multimedia. The display area creation is innovative, with luxurious materials and black and white alternate. It is combined with the simply and straightforward design which helps to create a sophisticated atmosphere. It conveys the Italian technology and excellence to perfection. A production run of 1000 is expected for this special series. It will be characterized by the unique Eldorado White paintwork and its exclusive mother-of-pearl effect or the Polar White for the regular output. It also has specially refined details such as the chrome-plated exhaust terminal with the glossy black wing mirror cases. The darkened rear lights add to its mystique. The exclusively painted, sparkle-effect 17 wheels come with aeronautical design. An additional touch of refinement is provided by the 147 CNC logos that appear on the tailgate and pillars. This special series is equipped with the 'Q2' system, the Torsen self-locking front differential. This confirms the strong points of a front-wheel drive which increases the creasing driving pleasure and control. It also provides some of the advantages typical of four-wheel drive. The unique features of Alfa elements such as 18" special wheel rims, sports instrumentation and aluminum pedals in the TI range.

The Car Features

To create a posh and dynamically elegant environment the dark shades have leather upholstered in seats. The perforated Alcantara comes with a jacquard tone-on-tone pattern. The black varnished pillars, ceiling and trims contrast with the white of the bodywork. Some details such as the instrument's red background with white lighting, the carpeting mats have identity plate and aluminum strips give a sporty personality to the 147 CNC COSTUME NATIONAL. The display was painted Eldorado white with a mother-of-pearl effect. There are details such as chrome-plated exhaust, gloss-black mirror housings, darkened tail lamps and painted, sparkle-effect 17-inch wheels. The seats were upholstered in leather and perforated Alcantara. It had black varnished ceiling and trim. The instrumentation was white on red and the carpeted floor mats had aluminum high-heel strips.

The Alfa Romeo world setting and the new 'Unique Alfa' Customization Program in particular is the focal point of the stand. It features some of the best Italian products and allows customers to make cars more refined and exclusive. The 'Unique Alfa' Program breaks down into three main areas-Vintage, Collezione and TI.

The Vintage range represents Alfa Romeo tradition with elegance and modernity as well as the colors for the bodywork and the beautifully crafted upholstery. The Collezione reflects the world of fashion and elegance, with luxury materials, metal inserts and multi-layer lacquered paint. The last line reinterprets Alfa Romeo's history in motor sports. Sport and racing have a fundamental role in the development of cutting-edge technologies. They offer a low stance, boosted braking system, alloy wheels and great performance wheels.

Safety and other features

The standard safety features include standard equipment, from VDC to ASR, 6 airbags and ABS complete with EBD. You can also choose from a large number of options like a Bose Hi-Fi system with subwoofer, Xenon headlights, low suspension settings, anti-theft system and satellite navigator. The Alfa Romeo 147 CNC COSTUME NATIONAL is a special edition Alfa Romeo 147 made in collaboration with stylist Ennio Capasa. The design of the Alfa Romeo 147 CNC COSTUME NATIONAL was inspired by the street culture and the multimedia world.

The platforms on which the cars are displayed have specific colors in each of the three areas. The other areas have a customization program with screens and multimedia stations. It conveys stylistic refinement and state-of-the-art technology. The new Alfa 147 C'N'C COSTUME NATIONAL is born out of collaboration between Alfa Romeo and the stylist Ennio Capasa. The Alfa GT 1.9 JTDM equipped with the 'Q2' system.

The diesel engine is more powerful and 140bhp 16V development of the original unit. It has twin overhead camshafts along with a new crankshaft, pistons and a cylinder head. The oil pump uses the latest 'multijet' technology. It helps to increase the number of injections per cycle to burn the same amount of fuel but in smaller doses. This improves the noise and smoothness.

Extra features are available as an also. These include ABS, EBD (electronic brake distribution), ASR (traction control) and VDC (vehicle dynamic control). Safety features include six airbags. The usual seat belt pre-tensioners, side impact bars etc are also there. The dual zone climate control, a navigation system has a 5 inch display and is available in either monochrome or color. The Bose sound system comes with a six-channel amp and subwoofer can be specified. The interior promises a higher level of quality in the materials used and the construction. It is accompanied with some classic Alfa cues.

The Alfa Romeo world setting and the new 'Unique Alfa' Customization Program in particular was a focal point of the stand. It featured some of the best Italian products and allows customers to make cars more refined and exclusive.

Honda to Recall 43,200 Acura RL Sedans

2007-12-20T05:48:00.000-08:00

Japanese second largest car manufacturer and producer of quality Acura CL air filter recharge kit, Honda, will be recalling 43,200 Acura RL sedans due to a faulty power steering hose that may crack from engine heat leading to fire accident.

The said recall will affect 2005-2008 models as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration on their website just recently.

Honda said that it is very important to fix the cracked hose since it can release a volatile fluid onto a hot catalytic converter that may cause fire. There were already two reports of fires in Japan that has triggered for an internal investigation and finally to a recall based on the report posted by NHTSA on its web site.

Honda has started notifying affected owners and according to the letter from William Willen, lawyer of Hondaâ€™s Torrance, California-based US unit dealers will install a heat-resistant hose. Aside from Honda, Volvo will also recall 37,000 (2007-08) XC90 sport utility vehicles while Suzuki will conduct a recall of some 40,424 (2006-07) Grand Vitara SUVs that is according to NHTSA.

The problem with XC90 is its climate-control module that is feared to shut down after the ignition key is inserted thereby disabling the defroster during cold weather and reducing visibility said NHTSA.

Dan Johnston, US spokesman for Volvo in Rockleigh, New Jersey has confirmed the recall but declined to comment any further on the matter.

The recall called by Suzuki for its Grand Vitara is caused by a faulty automatic transmission that slip out of park once the engine is shut off causing for a vehicle to roll off causing a crash that is according to NHTSA. Beth Borozan, US spokeswoman for Hamamatsu, Japan-based Suzuki, has confirmed the said recall but also declined to make any comment on the subject.

Hondaâ€™s Car Sales in China Up by 36 Percent in November Aside from the recall, Honda has also announced that they have sold around 46,226 vehicles in China during the month of November up by 36.4% from the 33,881 in the same month last year.

The carmaker also said in a statement that it has sold around 378,602 vehicles for the period covering from January to November up from the previous 287,709 units sold or 31.6 percent in the same period last year.

Hondaâ€™s 50-50 joint venture with Dongfeng Motor Corp, Dongfeng Honda Automobile Co. has sold 114,482 vehicles from January to November which has more than doubled the previously reported sales of 54,685 in the same period last year.

Likewise, Honda 50-50 joint venture with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Guangzhou Honda Automobile Co., has sold 264,120 vehicles for the first 11 months of this year up by 13.3 percent from 233,024 in the same period last year.

2008 Chevrolet HHR Review - A Review of the 2008 Chevrolet HHR Wagon

2007-12-18T10:05:00.000-08:00

The 2008 Chevrolet HHR is packed with splendid features, combining retro styling with everyday practicality all at an amazingly affordable price. It also offers one of the best luggage capacities in its class due to its tall passenger compartment and usable room.

The '08 Chevy HHR comes in a regular four-door wagon or a two-seat panel with solid, handle-less rear doors. The regular wagon has two trim levels namely LS and LT. The former includes 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning with cabin filtration, cruise control, keyless entry, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a 60/40- split-folding rear seat, full power accessories and a six-speaker CD stereo with auxiliary jack. On the other hand, LT models come in standard 1LT and the upgraded 2LT. The 1LT incorporates 16-inch wheels, an eight-way power driver seat and an MP3-compatibl stereo. Meanwhile, the 2LT adds a sport-tunes suspension, 17-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, exterior chrome accents, color-keyed running boards, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls and a premium audio speaker system with subwoofer.

With regard to interior design, the 2008 HHR regular wagon models have bright-ringed gauges, functional audio systems and very reliable outward visibility. Standard cloth or leather seats are available too. Its maximum cargo capacity is at 63 cubic feet, providing enough front and rear legroom.

OnStar emergency communications system which automatically informs OnStar advisors in case of crash highlights the safety features of the HHR. It also has basic front disc/rear drum brake setup, side curtain airbags, traction and stability controls. A five-star rating for occupant protection in both front and side-impact crash tests conducted by the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration guarantees a safe and secured ride for the whole family.

The 2008 Chevy HHR delivers comfortable and practical transportation with distinctive classis styling, huge space, and an affordable price, making it an ideal family vehicle.

2007 Nissan Murano Review - A Review of the 2007 Nissan Murano SUV

2007-12-18T10:00:00.000-08:00

The 2007 Nissan Murano is both innovative and reliable, with several new features that offer safety and convenience. Impressive new features include the Murano's available Intelligent Key and Direct Ignition, which, with the touch of a button automatically unlocks and starts the car as the driver approaches, and also Xtronic CVT, which allows for shiftless transmission, to make for a smoother ride. The 2007 Murano offers several standard safety features, including Nissan's Advanced Airbag System and a 3-point passenger seat belt system. This model keeps children in mind as well, with the LATCH system, which lowers tethers and anchors for the youngsters. The Murano also can switch between all-wheel and front-wheel drive depending on weather conditions, but switches back to front-wheel for optimum fuel economy. Chrome side sill accents, LED taillights and a power sliding glass moonroof add to the Murano's sleek look, while rear back privacy glass and fog lights are convenient to this model. Interior comfort is provided with Murano's Dual climate control with air filtration, and a 10-way power adjustable driver's seat including lumbar support, and also 60/40 split fold-flat rear seats. Also included in the Murano is the standard AM/FM CD system, and other audio options available are MP3/CD playback capability and satellite radio. A navigation system with LCD display and convenient rear monitor make this vehicle even smarter. Nissan includes ample cargo space for storage in each Murano, however, this model's 240-horse power, V6 engine is sure to handle the extra weight. Nissan's 2007 Murano is a car that combines safety, technology and affordability, and is likely to be at the top of the market this year.

The Ultimate Subaru Keychain

2007-12-17T10:34:00.000-08:00

It has always been the tradition of giving a gift to a person whom you love whatever the occasion may be. May it be birthday, holidays, Valentine's Day or just a simple thought of saying thank you by giving a gift or whatever the occasion is the thought and the effort has always been there of giving a gift. We tend to run out of ideas at times especially when we are pre-occupied of some things in our lives. This would lead to a haphazard way of choosing of a gift just for compliance purposes. The intention of gift giving has been duly forgotten. The purpose of making a person to feel special and that you remember him on that day is to make him realize that indeed you remember, love and care for him. Isn't it wonderful to give something out of your effort and self to the person whom you treasure the most in your life? Indeed it is, that's the beauty of giving something not just to anybody or any stranger but to that one special person in your life that is something worth to be happy about.

Still thinking what to give your special someone on that special day? Why won't you give him a Subaru key chain? To give that sense of individuality and dazzling personal touches will transform this key chain into the ultimate Subaru key chain. This is so by engraving a 5-word message to your special someone at the back of the key chain just to signify the love and affection that you have towards that person. This might be difficult to you and to some people as well; however, this will create a sense of deep happiness to the receiver of the gift for the reason that it was given out of love and should be accepted with open arms and love as well. That would be a fair, isn't it? If there are some things that you want to add to the key chain, you can do that as well. That's the beauty of giving a key chain, it can be personalized and custom made just to suit the client's needs. Here are some ways by which a key chain can be personalized: first, engraving the person's name or initials or a message; second, having some modifications of the design of the key chain without altering the substance or the base design of it. These are just two of the tips that could make a key chain personalized. There are a lot of ways though, unlimited that is. This is as far as your human mind can explore and discover as such.

It is not how much you spend in buying the gift that counts when you give a gift, it's the intention and the sincerity of giving such gift that really matters. That is something that should not be taken for granted for, what good is an expensive car when you give it out of expecting something in return or in lieu of something that you owe that special person for. As the saying goes, "It's the thought that count".

Give that special person a key chain that he will truly treasure and use everyday of his life, in that manner he will not forget the person who give such gift and will truly appreciate the effort that was exerted in making the key chain unique and personalized to suit the personality or the feelings of the person giving such gift. So for the next birthday, holiday or Valentine's Day give a custom made Subaru key chain or any key chain for that matter to bring a smile to your loved one's face.

Mazda To Unveil Concept At NAIAS

2007-12-17T10:24:00.000-08:00

The North American International Auto Show is about to take place in January next year. Automakers though are already announcing what vehicles can be expected on their stands come the big day. Japanese automaker Mazda announced recently that they will showcase, among others, two concept vehicles.

The first of the two and arguably the one many car enthusiasts are looking forward to is the world premiere of the Mazda Furai concept car. The Furai concept is one of the show stoppers at the Tokyo Motor Show held earlier. The NAIAS will be held in Detroit from Sunday, January 13 to Sunday, January 27 next year.

Apart from the Furai concept, the automaker will also unveil for the first out of Japan the Taiki concept, another vehicle which has made an impact at the 2007 Tokyo Motor Show. Both these concept vehicles are not expected to be mass produced by the automaker in the very near future. But with said vehicles, Mazda is showing to the auto industry the direction it would be taking.

Apart from the two concept vehicles, Mazda will also showcase a heavily revised new Mazda RX-8 sports car. Said vehicle has already captured the attention of performance enthusiasts in the United States and in other countries around the world.

According to the automaker's newsletter, the Furai concept is inspired by the fact that "on any given weekend, there are more Mazdas and Mazda-powered cars road-raced in the United States than any other brand". The Furai concept though is not al about speed and performance as it is also a green vehicle. Mazda designed the concept to run on ethanol fuel which when burned produces less greenhouse gases than petroleum gasoline.

Franz von Holzhausen, Mazda's North American director for design had this to say about the Furai concept: "Furai purposely blurs boundaries that have traditionally distinguished street cars from track cars. Historically, there has been a gap between single-purpose racecars and street-legal models â€" commonly called supercars â€" that emulate the real racers on the road. Furai bridges that gap like no car has ever done before."

According to the automaker's newsletter, the Furai concept takes the Nagare (Japanese for "flow") design concept a step further. The Nagare design involves the use of smooth curves for better aerodynamics. Mazda made the Furai even more streamlined by modeling it after American Le Mans Series racing cars. The result of their effort is a vehicle with smooth lines, great performance, and green credential, plus, it is equipped with highly reliable auto parts, as durable as Mazda speed parts.

2008 Acura TL

2007-12-09T07:37:00.000-08:00

2008 Acura TL $33,725 - $38,425
Accelerated Innovation
The TL's bold styling and nimble moves are rivaled only
by its stunning technological prowess. With a 258-Hp,
3.2-liter VTEC V-6 engine, and available Acura
Navigation System with real-time traffic, and the
Acura/ELS surround Premium Sound System at your
beck and call, nirvana is just a milepost away

Key Standard Features:
* Acura/ELS Surround(TM) AM/FM Radio With 225-Watts, Speed Sensitive Volume, Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound and 8 Speakers Total; Cassette Player; 6-Disc CD Changer; DVD Audio Player With DTS(R); MP3/WMA Player; XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) Satellite Radio Unavailable In Alaska or Hawaii and Is Provided On A 90-Day Free-Trial Basis Upon Vehicle Purchase)
* 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
* Front Side Airbags

2008 Acura TL Summary
The 2008 TL is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, or luxury sports sedan, available in 6 trims, ranging from the 5-Spd AT to the Type-S 5-Spd AT w/ Performance Tires.

Upon introduction, the 5-Spd AT is equipped with a standard 3.2-liter, V6, 258-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. The Type-S 5-Spd AT w/ Performance Tires is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 286-horsepower engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 26-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.

2008 Acura TL Trims, 6 Available
2008 Acura TL 5-Spd AT
MSRP $33,725
Invoice $30,991
Engine 3.2L V6 258HP
Fuel Econ. 18/26 mpg

2008 Acura TL 5-Spd AT w/ Navigation System
MSRP $36,225
Invoice $33,283
Engine 3.2L V6 258HP
Fuel Econ. 18/26 mpg

2008 Acura TL Type-S 6-Spd MT
MSRP $38,225
Invoice $35,177
Engine 3.5L V6 286HP
Fuel Econ. 18/27 mpg

2008 Acura TL Type-S 5-Spd AT
MSRP $38,225
Invoice $35,177
Engine 3.5L V6 286HP
Fuel Econ. 17/26 mpg

2008 Acura TL Type-S 6-Spd MT w/ Performance Tires
MSRP $38,425
Invoice $35,301
Engine 3.5L V6 286HP
Fuel Econ. 18/27 mpg

2008 Acura TL Type-S 5-Spd AT w/ Performance Tires
MSRP $38,425
Invoice $35,301
Engine 3.5L V6 286HP
Fuel Econ. 17/26 mpg

2008 Acura RL

2007-12-07T08:44:00.000-08:00

2008 Acura RL $46,280-$53,700
AHEAD OF THE CURVE
This sumptuous luxury sedan is so well-appointed; you'll
be lavishly equiped for every excursion. With its
290-hp, 3.5-liter, VTEC V-6 Engineand Supper Handling
All-Wheel Drive and the optional navigation system with
real time traffic, power and precision are simply par for the
course

Key Standard Features:
* Acura/Bose(R)(R) AM/FM Radio With Bose Cabin Surround(TM) Surround Sound, 260-Watts and 10 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; DVD Audio Player With DTS(R); MP3/WMA Player; XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) Satellite Radio Unavailable In Alaska or Hawaii and Is Provided On A 90-Day Free-Trial Basis Upon Vehicle Purchase)
* 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
* Seat Mounted Front Side Airbags

2008 Acura RL Summary
The 2008 RL is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sedan, available in 3 trims, ranging from the Sedan to the CMBS/PAX Package.
Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 290-horsepower engine that achieves 16-mpg in the city and 24-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

2008 Acura RL Trims, 3 Available
2008 Acura RL Sedan
MSRP $46,280
Invoice $41,560
Engine 3.5L V6 290HP
Fuel Econ. 16/24 mpg

2008 Acura RL Technology Package
MSRP $49,900
Invoice $44,805
Engine 3.5L V6 290HP
Fuel Econ. 16/24 mpg

2008 Acura RL CMBS/PAX Package
MSRP $53,700
Invoice $48,212
Engine 3.5L V6 290HP
Fuel Econ. 16/24 mpg

2008 CAR REVIEWS Acura RDX

2007-12-06T08:45:00.000-08:00

2008 Acura RDX $33,195 - $36,695
THE PERFECT COMMUTE
Acura Navigation System with Real-Time Traffic
identifies bottlenecks so you can avoid them

Standard Engine:
2.3L I4, 16 valve, 240 hp @ 6000 rpm
* 5 speed automatic transmission
* 17 mpg city / 22 mpg hwy
* Green Rating: 56

Key Standard Features:
* Acura Premium Sound System AM/FM Radio With 360-Watts, Speed Sensitive Volume and 7 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; MP3/WMA Player; XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) Satellite Radio Unavailable In Alaska or Hawaii and Is Provided On A 90-Day Free-Trial Basis Upon Vehicle Purchase)
* 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes
* Seat Mounted Front Side Airbags

2008 Acura RDX Trims, 2 Available
2008 Acura RDX 5-Spd AT
MSRP $33,195
Invoice $30,505
Engine 2.3L I4 240HP
Fuel Econ. 17/22 mpg

2008 Acura RDX 5-Spd AT w/ Technology Package
MSRP $36,695
Invoice $33,714
Engine 2.3L I4 240HP
Fuel Econ. 17/22 mpg

2008 Acura RDX Summary
The 2008 RDX is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sport-utility, available in two trims, the 5-Spd AT and the 5-Spd AT w/ Technology Package.
Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 2.3-liter, I4, 240-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 22-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

2008 Acura MDX Base

2007-12-06T00:25:00.000-08:00

2008 Acura MDX Base $40,195 - $47,995

Standard Engine:
3.7L V6, 24 valve, 300 hp @ 6000 rpm
* 5 speed automatic transmission
* 15 mpg city / 20 mpg hwy
* Green Rating: 50

Key Standard Features:
* Acura Navigation System With Voice Recognition(TM) and Rearview Camera GPS and DVD Navigation Aid With 8-In Color Screen Includes Zagat Survey(TM) Restaurant Guide (Navigation System Unavailable In Alaska)
* Acura/ELS Surround(TM) AM/FM Radio With 410-Watts, Seek, Scan, Speed Sensitive Volume, Dolby(R) Pro Logic(R) II Surround Sound and 10 Speakers Total; 6-Disc CD Changer; DVD Audio Player With DTS(R); MP3/WMA Player; XM(R) Satellite Radio (XM(R) Satellite Radio Unavailable In Alaska or Hawaii and Is Provided On A 90-Day Free-Trial Basis Upon Vehicle Purchase)
* 4-Wheel Anti-Lock Brakes

MSRP Engine Fuel Economy
2008 Acura MDX Tech Package $40,195 3.7L V6 15/20mpg 300HP

2008 Acura MDX Tech Package $43,695 3.7L V6 15/20mpg 300HP

2008 Acura MDX Sport Package $45,795 3.7L V6 15/20mpg 300HP

2008 Acura MDX Tech Package w/ $45,895 3.7L V6 15/20mpg 300HP
Rear DVD System

2008 Acura MDX Sport Package w/ $47,995 3.7L V6 15/20mpg 300HP
Rear DVD System