2011 Opel Astra

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Opel Astra
The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer brings style, practicality and eco-friendly technology to the compact wagon segment, giving owners the flexibility to combine professional and private use in one vehicle.

Sharing the same Opel design DNA and Sports Tourer name as its larger Insignia counterpart, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer also introduces a similar focus on first class quality and functionality. The sculpted shape encapsulates a cabin with all the widely-acclaimed attributes of the Astra hatchback, while adding an ample cargo carrying capability. Space-efficient trunk design, enabling an impressive load volume of up to 1,550 liters, is complemented by smart, upscale features such as the new FlexFold Rear Seats - a system which folds the rear seatbacks at the touch of a button.

The Opel Astra Sports Tourer's athletic looks are backed by an equally athletic driving experience. The new wagon shares the same innovative rear suspension and mechatronic FlexRide chassis as its hatchback peer. Other class leading features such as AFL+ adaptive forward lighting and medically-approved ergonomic front seats add comfort and safety to the driving fun on offer.

A wide powertrain choice of nine fuel-efficient engines provides a bandwidth from 70 kW/95 hp to 132 kW/180 hp. Fuel-saving Start/Stop technology will be first introduced on the 1.3 CDTI engine (70 kW/95 hp) early next year, resulting in CO2 emissions as low as 109 g/km.

EXTERIOR

The styling of the GTC Paris Concept is largely guided by its five-door sibling, with sportier touches including more performance-oriented front and rear bumpers and a coupe-like roofline strongly reminiscent of the three-door variant of the previous-generation Astra H/C (the last Astra model to be sold in Australia).

The GSI is seen here with a camouflaged front bumper, which tells us the model will have a slightly altered front fascia from the standard Astra - a more aggressive look according to our spy photographer. The GSI will come with a dual exhaust at the back and a two-tone interior with sports seats. Also, the GSI will feature wider wheel arches, according to German car mag Auto, Motor und Sport.

 ENGINE

The Opel Astra Sports Tourer benefits from the same harmoniously sculpted, high quality interior first seen in the hatchback. The wraparound wing front fascia arcs across the cabin into the top of the door moldings, creating a warm and inviting ambience.
The feeling of space and movement is further underlined by an elegant center stack, mounted at a shallow angle, which flows from the instrument panel down into the gearshift. Décor details - such as the chrome-ringed gauges, the controls and the framing of the center stack - are combined with the use of soft touch materials and subtle warm ambient lighting to give a high quality presentation.
Four interior trim levels are offered. A new interior with warm colors and elegant atmosphere is now introduced on the Cosmo variant, using cocoa in different hues as an alternative to black.
The cabin is as practical as it is stylish. No other compact wagon offers so much accessible interior storage space - 25 liters in all or, twice as much as in the current generation wagon. Now, the wagon is full of intuitive storage locations, including door pockets able to take large, 1.5-liter bottles, a highly adaptable center console that allows many configurations, a glove box of decent size and a pull-out storage drawer on the driver's side.

 ENGINE
Power for the GTC Paris Concept comes courtesy of a turbo-charged and direct-injected 2.0 litre four-cylinder petrol engine, paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
Until now, specific power figures for the GTC Paris Concept were a tightly-held secret. Opel has today revealed that the hot hatch's turbocharged engine pumps out a huge 213kW, bringing it within spitting distance of the 225kW offered by its ultimate rival, the Ford Focus RS.

Best-in-class total cost of ownership makes Opel Astra Sports Tourer wagon of choice

The Sports Tourer makes a compelling choice for fleets, which are expected to exceed 50 percent of sales in markets like Germany. The compact wagon can serve as an adaptable, high mileage workhorse during the week, and become a stylish, family hold-all at weekends.
Because cost of ownership is increasingly important Opel designers and engineers have focused on keeping accident repair costs low. Even though most crashes take place at relative low speeds, they usually cause expensive bodywork and components damage. Key to the Opel Astra Sports Tourer competitive edge is the design of its bumpers as well as front and rear bodywork: low repair costs mean low insurance payment and savings can amount to several hundred euros per year.
The strong residual values of the new Astra are already being indicated by sales of early used hatchbacks available on the market. Auto industry experts expect that the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will enjoy similar success.
Taking all factors into account the Opel Astra Sports Tourer offers the best total cost of ownership in its class making it a truly smart choice for the business buyer.
www.netcarshow.com,www.themotorreport.com.au,www.worldcarfans.com

2011 Opel Corsa

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Opel Corsa
GM has just revealed the facelift version 2011 Opel Corsa which is now a bit more powerful and with 13 percent more fuel efficient.
The 2011 Opel Corsa Facelift is also featuring an improved chassis and steering while at the interior the level of comfort was increased.
On the Color Race, Color Edition and Color Wave 2011 Opel Corsa variants the manufacturer offers unique 17 inch wheels and body finishes and a 111 Limited Edition version that will get sold only in Europe is also on its way.
The 2011 Opel Corsa Facelift comes fitted with the standard 1.0-litre 3-cylinder unit that produces 65 HP while the most powerful version has the 1.6-litre OPC engine under the bonnet that is good for 192 HP.

 INTERIOR
The Opel Corsa continues to offer one of the roomiest and most attractive interiors in its class. The welcoming nature of its cockpit has been given a substantial make-over. The layout of the attractive, user-friendly dashboard has been retained, but the surface treatments - a clever blend of matt and high-gloss materials - have been the subject of noticeable upgrades in quality and appearance.

The variety of available finishes, fabrics, and colors helps to differentiate between the trim levels and also ensures that all customers find the perfect trim to match their wishes. Key features of the interiors are the newly decorated center consoles, with the striking patterns and colors of the instrument panel pads, available in modern color combinations that give the interior a young and fresh character.

High quality begins in the Essentia entry level model, showing a premium Punch fabric quality and a new center stack color matt chrome. In addition to the classic charcoal interior, the Enjoy trim level adds a young fresh look with Steel Blue or is available in Tabasco Orange. The lively, colorful interiors are offset with contrasts in material applications such as pearl white on the console, the steering wheel and around the door handles. The colors and instrument panel patterns created through a two-tone effect add harmony to the overall appearance of the interior. The Sport execution shows a center stack held in elegant Japan Black with galvanized air vent decorations. The Cosmo has a new grey high gloss center stack bezel with a contrasting wing insert in the instrument panel, plus beautiful embossed seat fabric to give it a very elegant and upscale feel.

The new "Touch & Connect" infotainment system is a multi-media all-round unit with navigation system that is universally connectible and easy to use. Its many upscale features include dynamic navigation, Aux-in and USB and Bluetooth connectivity. The navigation is menu-driven via a touch screen.

EXTERIOR
The Opel Corsa's new looks build on the strong foundation of its successful design. It still retains its dynamic, friendly character, but now introduces a bold, sporty face in line with Opel's new design language.

The sporty execution is achieved by re-proportioning the upper and lower grilles. The lower grille has become wider and taller, thus visually widening the car. A high degree of attention has been paid to the three-dimensional mesh of the upper grille, which reminds one of the Astra and replaces the previous horizontal bars. The proud, new Opel logo is integrated into a redesigned, larger and sculptured chromed bar, adding to the expressive appearance of the front. Thanks to these changes, the Corsa now has an even more dynamic stance.

Chiseled Opel eagle eyes have been added to the new headlamps along with the typical wing-shaped daylight signature lamp that made its debut in the Insignia and is now featured in all new Opel products. The internals of the lamp have also been refined to create a very jewel-like execution that enhances the sporty look. The new fog lamp units with integrated chrome blade complete the more expressive presence of the Opel Corsa's new face. The look is further enhanced with six new alloy wheel designs and a large, redesigned Opel logo on the tailgate. Three new exterior colors are also integrated in the palette: a delicate off-white Guacamole, an eye-catching Grasshopper green and a warm Henna.

The side profile of the new Opel Corsa retains the charm that has already established it as a market favorite. The curved, aerodynamic silhouette is equally attractive in both coupé-like three and family-oriented five-door versions. The expressive front and rear design, the well-defined upswept waistline, and the optimal body-to-wheel relationship all work together to give a sleek, dynamic impression. Just like the radiator grille, the V-shaped tailgate with the trademark center crease and the large emblem carries unmistakable Opel design elements.

The Opel Corsa's wide stance and pronounced wheel arches clearly reflect the handling agility and driving fun the bestseller offers.

ENGINE
The powertrain line-up consists of a wide offer of gasoline enginefrom the 1-liter 3 cylinder (48 kW/65 hp ) entry level version to theturbo charged 1.6-liter on the Corsa OPC (141 kW/192 hp). On the dieselside, different versions of the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI motors offer outputsranging from 55 kW/75 hp to 96 kW/130 hp all with fuel consumptionunder 5 liters per 100 kilometers. The Corsa ecoFLEX 1.3 l CDTI offers exceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km for the 3-door variant,99 g/km for the 5-door.
Opel engineers have developed the engines to give greater torque,while at the same time reducing their appetite for fuel and loweringCO2 emissions. All gasoline engines, and the new 1.7 CDTI diesel,comply with Euro 5 emissions standards.
The most popular gasoline powertrains – 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4-liter withmanual and automated Easytronic transmissions – offer combined cyclefuel consumption between just 5.0 and 5.5 l/100 km, and CO2 ratingsfrom 117 to 129 g/km with manual transmission. With an average fuelconsumption of just 5.0 l/100 km and 117 g/km CO2, the Corsa 1.0 is thecleanest of all gasoline-powered entries in its segment. The 1.4 enginecomes in two variants, with 64 kW/87 hp and 74 kW/100 hp and isavailable with full automatic transmission in its most powerfulexecution. The 1.2 and 1.4-liter Twinport engines are now fitted withdouble cam phasing to allow variable valve timing on both inlet andexhaust sides for more efficient breathing.
Other measures that improve fuel consumption for all gasolineengines include a low friction oil pump, remapping of the enginethermostat and a ”shift up” indicator to help the driver change gearfor optimum fuel economy.
The 1.3 CDTI engine is also improved, giving the Corsa ecoFLEX modelexceptionally low CO2 emissions of just 98 g/km for the 3-door variant,99 g/km for the 5-door. The Corsa ecoFLEX is Opel’s lowest emittingcar, yet it is packed with 27 percent more power and 10 percent greaterfuel efficiency. A diesel particulate filter and the “shift up”indicator in the cluster are standard.
The top-of-the-line 1.7 CDTI diesel engine now offers more power andtorque – increased to 96 kW/130 hp and 300 Nm – as well as a ninepercent cut in CO2 emissions and fuel consumption, to 118 g/km and 4.5l/100km.
source:www.netcarshow.com,www.carsession.com

2011 kia picanto

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 kia picanto
This is the new Kia Picanto, the Korean brand’s A-segment supermini. Back for its second generation, the new Picanto wears the current Kia styling courtesy of Peter Schreyer's design team. The Kia Picanto is available in three- and five-door body styles, and comes with a choice of three petrol engines: a pair of three-cylinder engines, one of which can run on LPG or petrol, and the 1.25-litre four cylinder. We’re driving the four-pot and the non-LPG triple.

INTERIOR
In the cabin the Picanto sports a dark cloth interior with a height adjustable driver’s chair. It’s well bolstered and comfortable but could prove too narrow for those with broader backs during longer journeys. In the back seat leg room is limited but no more than you’d expect in an A-segment car and with correct front seat adjustment two adults could ride in relative comfort. The Picanto’s four-door body shape makes it easy to get in and out of the rear seat.

Instrumentation is large and easy-to-read and the controls are laid out with the stereo and climate controls separated, but all switchgear is close at hand. The Picanto’s leather-trimmed steering wheel is a particular highlight in a two-spoke design and featuring various control buttons. Other standard equipment includes cupholders, passenger under seat storage tray, air-conditioning, CD stereo with Ipod and USB connectivity, electric windows all-round, trip computer and Bluetooth hands free. The top-spec EX Picanto gets extra fruit like a 6-speaker stereo system, reverse parking sensors and electric folding side mirrors with LED indicators. Overall, it’s a very livable cabin, the materials used aren’t particularly hard or plasticky and everything feels well screwed together. It’s very small but the available space is used smartly with helpful touches like seat back pockets, bottle-holding door bins and a 60:40 split rear seat.

EXTERIOR
In terms of exterior styling the new Picanto is a sharp-looker, it’s suitably cute but with a broad, sure-footed stance. Design features include a rising character line, corporate Kia ‘tiger-nose’ grille and uniquely shaped, vertical tailights. There’s a subtle hatch spoiler, front fog lights and daytime running lamps (with LED strips on the EX variant).Standard wheel fitment is 8-spoke 14-inch alloys on the LX and sporty 15-inch multi-spoke alloys on the EX.

Dimensionally it’s a very small car but the Picanto has seen a size increase of 60mm to 3.6 metres in length and a 15mm increase to its wheelbase. Luggage capacity has also grown to 200-litres in total capacity and there has been no change to the Picanto’s height or width compared to its predecessor.

ENGINE
Under the bonnet the Picanto’s new engine is larger than before. It’s a 4-cylinder 1248cc powerplant from Kia’s Kappa family of motors. Power output is rated at 64kW with 123Nm of torque. The LX base-model features a 5-Speed manual box while there’s a four-stage auto for both LX and EX variants. The Picanto is no pocket rocket, but has enough pep to keep up with traffic, it’s best suited for around town blasts but once up to speed its well settled. Off the line the lightweight 850kg Picanto takes 11 seconds to reach 100km/h with the manual transmission, in auto form that stretches out to 12.9 seconds. It needs to be worked hard to get any real performance but as a city car the powertrain is certainly capable.

Driving Impression

The Picanto drives very well, especially in four-cylinder trim. The engine zings eagerly, the gear change and steering are both light and easy, and engaging too, and the ride felt pretty good on our car’s 14-inch steel rims – a gentle loping rhythm with only a few secondary imperfections spoiling the show. It’s even refined at motorway speeds, and little bursts of acceleration are always on tap. It just feels right and instinctively in tune with itself.
source:www.carmagazine.co.uk,www.carandsuv.co.nz

2011 Spyker C8 Convertible

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Spyker C8 Convertible
When it was founded in 2000, the Dutch firm Spyker borrowed its name from an early 20th century airplane engine manufacturer and quickly translated that history into the design language of its first supercar, the C8. The wheels, steering column, and switchgear all recall 1920s airplanes and help Spyker distinguish itself in a field of ultra-modern exotics. The C8 was introduced along with the founding of the new company and has seen minor refreshes ever since.

 INTERIOR and EXTERIOR
The 2009 Spyker C8 is an exotic sports car available in three versions: C8 Laviolette, C8 Spyder and longer-wheelbase C8 Aileron. Standard features for the C8 Laviolette include 18-inch alloy wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, keyless entry/ignition, electrically operated single-hinge tilting doors, full leather upholstery, air-conditioning and a CD sound system. The C8 Spyder shares the C8 Laviolette's equipment roster while adding a power-assisted soft top in place of the Laviolette's fixed roof. The C8 Aileron adds a unique dashboard design with a multifunction LCD display, a navigation system and a six-speaker Kharma sound system with Bluetooth and iPod connectivity. A Spyder version of the Aileron is scheduled to appear later in the model year.
As you'd expect of a hand-built exotic car, the Spyker C8 offers a mind-boggling array of options, including riveted body panels, 19-inch alloys ("Aeroblade" for Laviolette/Spyder, "Rotorblade" for Aileron), stereo upgrades, heated seats, quilted leather upholstery, an aluminum dashboard, a Louis Vuitton custom luggage set, a Louis Vuitton tool kit, Chronoswiss dials, Alcantara interior trim and bespoke exterior and interior color schemes.

ENGINE
In its current incarnation, most versions of the C8 are powered by an Audi-made, 4.2-liter V8 engine that generates 400 hp and 354 foot-pounds of torque. The engine is quick enough to reach 60 mph from a standing start in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 187 mph. A GT-class version of the car, known as the C8 Spyder GT2R, uses a 3.8-liter engine that generates a lower 310 foot-pounds of torque but ups its raw horsepower to 450, resulting in a quicker 3.8-second dash to 60 mph with the same top speed.

Safety

To comply with American regulations, the C8 Laviolette and Spyder have been fitted with a steering-wheel airbag in place of the Euro-spec propeller-shaped four-spoke wheel. The C8 Aileron adds a passenger airbag. Antilock brakes are standard, but neither stability nor traction control is available.

Driving Impressions

Mellifluous and responsive Audi V8 notwithstanding, the Spyker C8 isn't a car that tempts you to race other exotics. It's fast, but not that fast. The handling is another matter, though -- with precise manual steering and a chassis tuned with input from Lotus, the C8 has plenty of moxie. Unfortunately, the price of that handling comes in the form of a spine-bruising ride. The C8 does have shock absorbers, but you may have your doubts after a spell in the driver seat. To Spyker's credit, though, the C8's ultra-rigid aluminum structure evinces zero chassis quiver, and driving enthusiasts will appreciate the sense of intimate connection with moving parts and the road below.
source:www.leftlanenews.com,www.edmunds.com

2011 Aston Martin Rapide

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Aston Martin Rapide
Despite the piddling amount of miles their owners tend to accumulate on them, Aston Martins have always been intended for long-distance grand touring rather than the sort of high-adrenaline pavement-pounding that other exotic sports cars get. With rare exception, an Aston puts a priority on getting its passengers rapidly to their destination in comfort and grand style. Well, for two people at least. If you wanted to bring along anyone else, their age could not exceed their hat size, or in the case of two-seat models, it would probably be best if they were simply imaginary.
Times have changed, thanks to the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide. If it looks like a DB9 stretched to accommodate an extra pair of doors and seats, that's because it's pretty much exactly that. Under the skin is Aston Martin's customary bonded-aluminum unit body and rear-mounted transaxle, while the 6.0-liter V12 is shared with the DB9. The Rapide is much larger, however. Beyond the 9.8 inches of additional wheelbase, the Rapide is 12 inches longer overall and 10 inches wider. This sedan actually takes up more real estate than the Porsche Panamera, even though it looks smaller and sleeker.
So it's based on the DB9 and looks like the DB9, but does the Aston Martin Rapide drive like one as well? Well, to put it one way, the term "four-door sports car" has rarely been so apt. There is an agility that you just won't get in other super sedans, while at the same time, there's the same sort of ride comfort that has made Aston Martins such brilliant touring cars. Then there's the V12, which offers effortless thrust and the sort of grandiose noises that beautifully blur the line between muscular and sophisticated -- like Metallica performing with the London Philharmonic. Unfortunately, such sounds might not make up for the fact that cheaper ultra-luxury sedans like the Panamera, Jaguar XJ Supercharged and Mercedes-Benz S63 AMG are notably quicker.
The Rapide has other disadvantages relative to its rivals as well. While its hatchback-style trunk and rear bucket seats provide a level of practicality that a GT coupe never could, the Rapide still doesn't deliver the sensible four-door function of a sedan. The backseat suffers from a lack of hip room, while leg- and headroom are only sufficient until you realize its competitors are limousines by comparison.
As such, the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide isn't quite a sedan in the traditional sense. Nevertheless, the addition of a respectable amount of convenience to the DB9's mix of performance, handling and stunning good looks creates the kind of package that might encourage even Aston owners to accumulate more miles.

 INTERIOR

Four full-grain leather seats provide ample room for adults of all sizes. Sitting in the backseat, my 6’ 1” frame fits comfortably all around. Headroom is excellent, so too is leg and hip room. Elongated seats provide superior support for the lower back, extending upwards well beyond the norm to provide integrated headrests in a molded, yet completely accessible package.
Walnut dash trim is standard along with Iridium Silver and Graphite metallic accents. On this day, our vehicle is equipped with the optional Piano Black fascia trim, red stitching on the seats and a rear seat entertainment system with 6-disc DVD player and wireless headphones. 

Storage is surprisingly good given the stout dimensions of the trunk, but don’t expect to carry four large suitcases and four people all at the same time. With this in mind, Aston Martin provides the ultimate luxury add-on, stylized luggage designed to fit in place while looking the part. Front door pouches are a useful size as are the stitched leather center console cupholders. The standard umbrella is perfect for those times when the weather turns rainy, which in jolly old England happens frequently.

;

EXTERIOR

The Rapide is based on the same platform as Aston Martin's other cars, and it's unmistakably a family member.

Aston Martin keeps the Rapide lightweight through the extensive use of aluminum, magnesium alloy and composite along with the more traditional steel.  Exterior features include:

• Standard 20-inch alloy wheels
• Optional 20-inch silver or graphite wheels
• Standard front parking sensors
• Standard gray brake calipers
• Optional black, red and silver calipers

 ENGINE

Performance comes by way of a mid-mounted all alloy 48-valve 6.0-liter V12 engine. It produces an astounding 470 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 443 lb-ft of torque at 5000 rpm. Matched to a rear mid-mounted 6-speed “Touchtronic 2” gearbox with electronic shift-by-wire control, it accelerates to 60 mph in 5.0 seconds while reaching a top speed of 184 mph.
A rear-wheel drive sports car of the highest caliber, the standard rack-and-pinion set up with Servotronic speed-sensitive power-assisted steering performs at maximum level as we soon discover leaving the parking lot on a British-style fish and chips pub crawl. 


Fitted with 20-inch alloy wheels and 245/40/20 front, 295/35/20 rear Bridgestone Potenza high-performance tires, we make our way north and west out of the gated entrance at Aston Martin Headquarters in Gaydon, England.
Independent double wishbone suspension front and back features anti-dive geometry, coil springs, anti-roll bar and mono tube adaptive dampers. The rear adds anti-lift geometry to keep the vehicle firmly in place.

Driving Impressions

Climb into the 2011 Aston Martin Rapide's snug driver seat and you might think you're actually in a DB9. Not only are the controls around you practically identical, but the way the car effortlessly cruises down the highway or confidently takes a corner makes it feel like a sports car, not a luxury sedan. The automatic transmission is remarkably smooth, the steering is light and precise and the V12 sounds incredible. Best of all, it still manages to offer a compliant ride in true Aston tradition.
Because of the Rapide's long, low-slung body, there is an elevated risk of high centering on curbs and driveways. Owners simply must be mindful of their pretty Aston Martin's underbody and chin spoiler.
source:www.cars.com,www.autoguide.com,www.autoguide.com

2011 Aston Martin V12 Vantage

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Aston Martin V12 Vantage
Aston Martin is not afraid of trumping its most expensive, famous and fanciest car. You'd think taking the V12 engine from its Aston Martin DBS and stuffing it into the more nimble Vantage would be a no-no, as the baby Aston would actually outdo 007's ride in almost every parameter of performance and handling while costing much less besides. Yet Aston Martin has done just that with its 2011 V12 Vantage, a measure of the company's eagerness to be respected for sports-car performance as well as GT sophistication.
The 6.0-liter V12 in question cranks out 510 horsepower, 90 more than the base V8. But since the V12 is about a foot longer than the Vantage's normal V8, Aston had to do a fair amount of engineering to shoehorn the engine beneath the Vantage's hood. Changes include a few tweaks to the front structure, cooling vents in the hood and revised suspension tuning. Overall curb weight has increased by about 150 pounds, and the car's weight distribution slightly now favors the front of the car a bit. But the V12 Vantage is definitely a sports car, with aggressively revised bodywork and carbon-ceramic brakes and more aggressive bodywork.
The rest of the 2011 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is pretty similar to the regular V8 Vantage. Inside, it's the same interior design, with impeccably finished materials. The V12 Vantage doesn't get the DBS's two-stage adjustable suspension, but you won't likely miss it. On the move, the Vantage stays glued to the road without crashing or banging as the DBS is prone to do when you select the suspension's Sport setting.
Compared to models outside the Aston family, the V12 Vantage's luster dims a little. Similarly priced exotics like the Audi R8 5.2, Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG and Porsche 911 Turbo S all provide varying mixes of quicker acceleration or stronger grip. But in this company, there's really no way to lose. And if you're just looking for the ultimate driver's Aston, the V12 Vantage is the most delicious performance machine to emerge from the house that David Brown built.

 INTERIOR

A dizzying array of interior choices means each V12 Vantage can be personalized by its buyer. Premium materials line the aluminum-trimmed dashboard, which includes a ringed push-button ignition above the radio controls. Interior features include:

• 10-way power seats feature twin lumbar adjustment and memory function
• Optional dual-stage heated seats
• Standard Bluetooth connectivity
• Standard navigation system
• Automatic climate control
• Analog clock, stitched dashboard seams and machined instrument dials are among the upscale touches
• Carbon fiber door handles

  EXTERIOR

The V12 Vantage's frame replaces welding with advanced adhesives for better vibration damping, and aluminum and magnesium components reduce weight throughout the chassis. Exterior features include:

• High-intensity-discharge headlights
• Flared front fenders are trailed by inset side vents
• Integrated deck lid spoiler and twin exhaust pipes
• 19-inch wheels
• LED taillights

 ENGINE
The 2011 Aston Martin V12 Vantage is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that cranks out 510 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual is the only transmission available. Aston Martin estimates a 0-60 time of 4.1 seconds, which would be a tenth quicker than the DBS. Fuel economy (should you care), is an EPA-estimated 11 mpg city/17 mpg highway and 13 mpg combined.

 SAFETY
The Aston Martin V12 Vantage comes equipped with carbon-ceramic disc brakes with ABS and brake assist, while other standard equipment includes traction control and stability control (with a track mode), and side airbags that provide head and torso protection.

Driving Impressions

How do you improve on what was already the best-handling Aston Martin? Why, add a 510-hp V12, that's how. The resulting car presents the precision of the Vantage with the all-out thrust of the DBS -- a combination with which it's hard to argue. On a winding road, the 2011 Aston Martin V12 Vantage moves confidently while feeding its driver useful information about what's happening at the pavement level. It also offers a surprisingly comfortable ride and is easy to drive, making it a plausible choice for road trips (though not as good as the Aston Martin DB9 or DBS).
Of course, here comes the standard Aston Martin caveat. If you're looking for a sports car, there are tougher cars from Germany or Italy. For as impressive as this car is, and as well as it measures up against the Ferrari 599, an Aston Martin remains an elegant and even practical GT car first and a sports car second.source: www.cars.com,www.edmunds.com

2011 Aston Martin DBS

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Aston Martin DBS
The V12 erupts with a sharp blip and a mighty roar like the crack of a whip igniting a volcano. You slot the chunky metal gear lever into 1st and unleash the 510 ferocious horses. Your back sinks into the snug suede-swathed seat and the boisterous horns of the James Bond theme blare in your head over the thunder from beneath the carbon-fiber hood. If this ever got old, it would be time to give away everything and pursue a higher plane of existence.
Now before we get any further into the superlatives, let's get to the nuts and bolts of the matter. The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is a modified version of the sexy Aston Martin DB9, and while the DBS and DB9 are certainly similar in appearance, a longer look will reveal the DBS's bulging fenders, additional air vents and more chiseled fascia. It's like comparing ruggedly handsome Daniel Craig to pretty boy Pierce Brosnan. Each is certainly compelling in its own way -- the cars, we mean -- but our preference is for toughness.
The differences don't end with styling. The DBS's 6.0-liter V12 produces 40 horsepower more than the DB9's, and thanks to its lightweight carbon-fiber body panels and other weight-saving measures, it can hit 60 mph about a half-second quicker. The retuned chassis and steering aren't all that different from the DB9's, but subtle changes have made the DBS a more communicative driving machine.
However, the DBS is more than just something to drive that makes pretty noises. The made-to-order interior is adorned with leather and faux suede, plus accents of aluminum, carbon fiber, piano-black wood and, for 2011, glass for the buttons of the center console. Customers can choose between a pair of vestigial rear seats or more useful parcel shelves that also trim weight. With either, however, two passengers will discover that the DBS lives up to its grand touring description over long journeys, with supportive seats and a two-mode adjustable suspension.
A Bentley Continental GT Speed, Ferrari California and Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG will also deliver grand performances of automotive theatre, and some will cost less, so it all boils down to what sort of exotic car experience you're looking for. But we can guarantee that every time you open the swan-style doors and awaken that slumbering V12, the 2011 Aston Martin DBS will certainly feel special.

 INTERIOR

The two-seat interior looks much like that of the DB9. The center stack starts with the air-conditioning vents up top and flows down to the center armrest. A small cargo area behind the seats can hold a custom luggage set. The rear cargo area can be replaced with additional seats to increase seating capacity to four. This configuration comes standard on the convertible. Interior features include:

• Leather-upholstered dashboard, armrest, steering wheel and seats
• Choice of ultrathin racing seats or chunkier, but still heavily bolstered, sport seats
• Available navigation system
• Available Bang & Olufsen stereo

 EXTERIOR

Those who have seen a mid-'90s DB7 or anything newer should recognize the DBS as an Aston. Its trapezoidal grille and low-slung hood mimic the V8 Vantage and DB9; the front air dam is larger, the bumper has a few more etchings, and the rear sports an aggressive underbody air diffuser. Exterior features include:

• Constructed from lightweight aluminum, magnesium and carbon fiber
• Aluminum chassis
• Xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights
• LED taillamps
• 20-inch wheels standard
• Available lightweight 20-inch wheels
• Power retractable fabric roof (convertible)

 ENGINE
The 2011 Aston Martin DBS is powered by a 6.0-liter V12 that produces 510 hp and 420 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic with shift paddles on the steering wheel is optional. Aston Martin estimates the DBS coupe will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 4.3 seconds.

SAFETY
The 2011 DBS comes with a fair amount of safety equipment for an exotic sports car. Stability and traction control are standard, along with antilock carbon-ceramic disc brakes. Side airbags and front and rear parking sensors are standard. There haven't been any official government crash tests conducted, but if you go by the Bond movie Casino Royale, you can flip a DBS nine times and allegedly survive. So there's that.
source:www.cars.com,www.edmunds.com

2011 Volvo V50

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Volvo V50
The S40 is Volvo's entry-level sedan based on the P1 platform. It fills a near-luxury niche below the BMW 3-Series and Mercedes C-Class. The S40 has many similarities to the Mazda3 and European Ford Focus, due to a shared platform. However, the S40 is more expensive and better equipped than both those vehicles.

Now in its second generation, the the current S40 was first introduced for the 2004 model year, and updated for 2008.
In the U.S., the car can be ordered with front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive. What's more, customers have a choice of two engines and two transmissions -- a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic with Geartronic manual shifting.

 INTERIOR

The standard upholstery in the five-occupant interior has a slightly coarse, woven feel said to be inspired by sportswear. Leather upholstery is available. The R-Design comes with unique premium leather seating surfaces. Aluminum trim is standard. Interior features include:

• Power driver seat
• Leather gearshift knob and steering wheel
• Eight-speaker sound system with in-dash CD player and USB/iPod compatibility
• Optional Dolby Pro-Logic II surround-sound stereo
• Optional automatic climate control
• Optional power glass moonroof
• Optional heated front seats
• Optional navigation system
• Optional power passenger seat
• R-Design versions include unique floormats, aluminum accents, steering wheel, upholstery and gauges

 

EXTERIOR

The V50's looks are similar to its S40 sibling. A V-shaped hood bulge runs down into a sculpted nose, and there's a broad lower air intake. The grille receives a larger logo this year. Exterior features include:

• Standard mirror-integrated turn signals
• Standard 17-inch aluminum wheels
• Optional 18-inch aluminum wheels
• Standard fog lights
• R-Design features aluminum roof rails, silver grille frame, rear spoiler, ground effects and unique tailpipes
• Optional power moonroof
• Optional bi-xenon headlights with articulating headlamps

 

 ENGINE
All 2011 Volvo V50s are powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5 good for 227 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent to the front wheels through a five-speed automatic with manual-shift capability. Volvo predicts a 0-60 sprint of 6.8 seconds, and estimated fuel economy is 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined.

SAFETY
The 2011 Volvo V50 comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and whiplash-reducing front head restraints. Optional features include integrated rear booster seats and a blind-spot warning system.

Driving Impressions

The turbocharged engine is a good performer, and it makes this car a kind of Mazdaspeed 3, only with a more refined chassis and powertrain. When the road is winding, the 2011 V50 is stable and confidence-inspiring, and it doesn't give up much to the more expensive Audi A4 Avant and BMW 3 Series. Sadly, the discontinued all-wheel-drive option makes this car less attractive for those who live where weather is a serious issue, but the added cost had limited its appeal. Altogether, the Volvo V50 Wagon is often overlooked, yet it delivers the experience of a European-tuned wagon in a very compelling way.
source:www.edmunds.com,www.cars.com,www.leftlanenews.com

2011 Volvo S40

Specifications prices Modifications and Image 2011 Volvo S40
There used to be a distinct gap between premium and non-premium sedans. In recent years, that gap has been filling up with attractively priced four-doors with luxury aspirations. The 2011 Volvo S40 is such a sedan, with more prestige than your run-of-the-mill domestic model, but not quite as much sophistication as the established European competitors. The niche positioning, however, presents some problems.
On the positive side, the Volvo S40 certainly looks the part of a European sport sedan. Even though this latest generation has been in production for seven years now, the S40 manages to still look fresh. This is especially true on the inside, where the sleek "floating waterfall" center stack and available two-tone upholstery continue to set this car apart from its more conservative rivals. Under the hood you'll find a standard 227-horsepower turbocharged five-cylinder engine that provides livelier acceleration than you'll find in the typical four-cylinder sedan.
Beyond this, the S40 just doesn't do much else to distinguish itself. Whether you're looking for the latest technology features, sportier performance, higher fuel economy or just a more prestigious image, you'll likely find a better choice. In the S40's price range, models like the sporty Acura TSX V6, the stylish Buick Regal and the well-equipped Volkswagen CC are more appealing. Similarly, the BMW 3 Series and Infiniti G Sedan justify their higher costs through added performance and prestige. Overall, the S40 is a fine car on its own merits, but you'll definitely want to shop around.

 INTERIOR
The S40 sedan and V50 wagon share essentially that same interior, and it looks great. It's also intuitive, everything works the way you'd expect, and it's easy to get comfortable. When Volvo updated these cars back in 2008, it addressed the few niggling shortcomings in what was otherwise a first-rate cabin. Re-designed dash vents move more air, and storage for small items was improved.
The S40 and V50 are surprisingly roomy given their exterior dimensions, which are very close to a Honda Civic or Ford Focus. Volvo should be credited for creating efficient, intelligent ways to use space. Everything in the S40/V50 cabin is carefully compact, including the strong stubby door handles. They're easy to grab and pull.
The materials and finish are very good. The expanses of plastic and vinyl have a soft, leathery look. The standard trim in base 2.4i models, as well as T5s, is brushed aluminum, not too much and in all the right places, including the whole center stack. Genuine Nordic Light Oak is optional in the 2.4i, and it looks like the finish on fine furniture. T5s come standard with Volvo's R-Design motif, meaning light (Crème) leather seating surfaces strikingly bracketed by black Flextech fabric. Full, monotone leather is optional in all models, in black or off-white (Volvo calls it Quartz) in the 2.4i, but in black only in T5s. In either color the leather is smooth and thick, stretched taut over the seats rather than draped.
The seats are excellent. It's hard to find a better mix of comfort and support for typical driving. The optional sport seats in some luxury brands might ultimately be better, but they are much harder to settle into not to mention they are usually expensive. The fabric that comes standard in the 2.4i resists stains. Dog owners may be better served by the leather, however, because dog hair can get imbedded in the fabric upholstery.
The fold-flat front passenger seat is a valuable feature. Standard on the wagons, the front seatback can fold forward to roughly the same level as the folded rear seat and cargo floor. This adds three feet to the length of items that can be carried within the car. And as far as we could tell, this feature does nothing to diminish the seat's comfort.
Volvo's WHIPS whiplash-limiting seat is designed to reduce the chance of a neck injury in a rear-end collision: During a rear-end impact, the seatbacks move rearward to reduce acceleration forces on the occupant's back and neck, while the headrest pushes forward and upward slightly to meet the neck and head as they are thrust backward. For 2010, the headrests now adjust vertically as well.
The S40/V50 instrument panel is clean, simple and workmanlike, with a big speedometer and tachometer featuring white numbers on a black background with red needles or, keeping with the R-Design theme in the T5, white numbers on blue faces with red needles. Both replicate the look a fine watch. The overall effect of the dashboard is very Scandinavian, yet the coolest part may be the thin-panel center stack.
The S40 and V50 were the first Volvos to use the thin panel in front of the center console. The center stack is barely more than an inch thick, like a flat-screen computer monitor, with open space behind it. It curves gracefully upward from the minimalist shift lever to link the center console with the rest of the instrument panel.
Most controls are located in the thin panel, with audio above climate and a text display at the top, arranged in a neat, symmetrical pattern. The four primary knobs are placed at the corners, big and raised substantially from the surface so they're easy to find. One of those knobs is a menu control that easily accesses more detailed functions displayed on the information screen. The airflow buttons are fashioned in an icon shaped like a seated person, so there's absolutely no confusion about directing air toward the face, feet or windshield.
It's all quite clean, effective and pleasing. Most significantly, measured by function and ease of operation, various controls in the S40 and V50 are simpler, better, than most other luxury brands. Particularly German brands, which still insist on layering more menus (and buttons) in their interfaces. One problem we had with the thin panel, however, is that during hard cornering, of which these cars are eminently capable, our right knee rode hard against the panel edge, and it hurt. But we'll deal with the rubbing and take the thin-panel center stack. Behind the thin panel is a small storage bin, though you have to reach around the back to gain access.
Our biggest complaint about these cars is their lack of interior cubby storage for small items. It was expanded slightly for 2008, but there's still little room for stuff. The latest versions offer some room in the center console, perhaps enough for a small handbag, and have a rack that holds 10 CDs.
Trunk space in the sedan is good. The chopped-off rear end makes the trunk opening smaller than that on some comparably sized cars, but it leads into a deep forward well, with 12.6 cubic feet of luggage space. That's average in this size class, but it's only the beginning, The rear seat splits 60/40, and the seatbacks open up to the trunk when dropped. Fold both sides of the rear seat and the S40 offers an impressively large open floor, with 38.4 cubic feet of space to carry cargo inside the car. That's a lot for a small sedan, and it can be reached through the side doors as well as the trunk lid.
Cargo space in the V50 wagon expands storage further. We think it's a great choice for people who routinely transport their dogs. It offers 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats upright, and a substantial 62.6 cubic feet with the rear seats and the front passenger seat folded down. That compares favorably to the cargo space in compact SUVs.
The premium audio system in the T5 Dynaudio Package delivers superb sound and it costs less than the high-end upgrades offered by many luxury brands, with dual amplifiers, subwoofers and advanced Dolby processing. The standard stereo is a 160-watt system that includes an in-dash CD/MP3 player, HD radio technology, and a USB port.
The navigation system is easy to operate and we liked it. The screen pops up vertically from the center of the dash, though it's canted forward at an angle that can make it harder to see from some driving positions. The driver surfs through menus and makes choices with buttons on the back of the right steering wheel spoke, almost where you'd expect paddle shifters for an automatic transmission. The menus are no more difficult to learn than those on other navigation systems, and they're managed without taking hands from the steering wheel and fishing for the controls. Passengers can control the system with a remote. It was upgraded for 2009.

EXTERIOR

Little has changed on the outside since the 2009 redesign, but Volvo says the 2011 models will get a larger Volvo logo on the grille. Exterior features include:

• Standard integrated turn signals
• Standard fog lights
• Standard power-operated and heated side mirrors
• Standard 17-inch wheels
• Optional power glass moonroof
• Optional 18-inch wheels
• Optional bi-xenon headlights with articulating headlamps

 

 ENGINE
With the cancellation of last year's base engine, the S40 is now offered solely with a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-5 that pumps out 227 hp and 236 pound-feet of torque. A standard five-speed automatic routes power to the front wheels -- all-wheel drive is no longer available. Zero to 60 mph is reached in 6.7 seconds. The EPA estimates fuel economy at 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway and 24 mpg in combined driving.

Summary

The Volvo S40 sedan and V50 wagon are premium, safe cars in a small package. They offer essential active safety systems, such as advanced ABS and skid-control electronics, and a high level of impact protection. Their interiors are nice.
NewCarTestDrive.com correspondent Sam Moses filed this report from California; with Mitch McCullough reporting from Charlottesville, Virginia, and J.P. Vettraino in Detroit.
source:www.edmunds.com,www.cars.com,autos.aol.com