Sunday, May 30, 2010

Nissan Armada 2010

Nissan Armada 2010 is a 4-door, up to 8-passenger sport-utility, available in 6 variants namely the SE 4X2, Titanium 4X2, SE 4X4, Titanium 4X4, Platinum 4X2 and the  Platinum 4X4.

Nissan Armada shares its body-on-frame F-Alpha platform with the Nissan Titan pickup truck, Nissan Xterra SUV, Nissan Frontier pickup truck, and Nissan Pathfinder SUV. An upscale version of the Armada is sold as the Infiniti QX56. All Armadas are currently built in Canton, Mississippi.


Nissan Armada 2010 SPECIFICATIONS (Note: Some Spec might varies with variants):

Body style(s): 4 Door suv
Complete specifications: Specifications of Nissan Armada 2010
Colors: Blizzard,Galaxy Black,Navy Blue,Silver Lightning,Smoke,Tuscan Sun
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 28.0
Mileage(estimated)(city/highway): 12 / 18
Price Onwards: $37,510
Website: Nissan Armada 2010 US



Nissan Armada - What the Auto Press Says- usnews.rankingsandreviews.com


The 2010 Nissan Armada ranks 9 out of 10 Affordable Large SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 47 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Armada, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Nissan Armada offers buyers plenty of power and rugged capability, but not enough to make it a standout in this competitive class.

Despite the fact that it's not the least expensive SUV in the class, the Nissan Armada is a good value for its size and capabilities. With seating for up to eight, and a 317 horsepower V8 engine, there's a lot for buyers who need a capable SUV to like. Plus, if you opt for the Armada's top-of-the-line Platinum trim, it becomes a near-luxury SUV for less than what you'd pay for its luxury nameplate cousin, the Infiniti QX56

However, while the Armada is an able performer, it loses points for predicted reliability score that isn't as strong as others in the class. What may be worse for the Armada in the minds of most buyers is its fuel economy: the Armada has some of the worst fuel economy in the class, making it a tough sell. Still, given the soft new car market, buyers who like the Armada may be able to save enough money at the dealership to keep the Armada gassed up for a while.

If you're looking for more comfort in an SUV, check out the class-leading Chevrolet Tahoe, which offers more refinement and is almost as rugged as the Armada. Plus, the Tahoe has marginally better fuel economy. The Ford Expedition is also worth a look. Its price is slightly less than the Armada's, and it has an adult-friendly third row seat -- a rarity in this class.

For 2010, new trims are available on the Armada. Armada buyers can chose between SE, Titanium and Platinum editions. The Titanium and Platinum trims feature upgraded wheels, body moldings and interior materials. The Platinum edition also features a 9.3 GB music hard drive, DVD entertainment system and a navigation system.

Before heading to the dealership, be sure to check out this month's Best Nissan Deals, where we've done the research and found the best discounts and deals for you.
  • "The Armada puts the right stuff in a lot of the right places for buyers desiring a full measure of the large SUV experience," -- Automobile Magazine
  • "This big traditional SUV is built upon the bones of the Titan pickup and packs a powerful V-8 engine. Its three rows of seating are remarkably spacious, it drives smaller than it actually is, and it is well-suited to towing. The optional luxuries make the Infiniti QX56 a bit redundant." -- Car and Driver
  • "Armada doesn't lead the large-SUV class in any area. It trails key rivals in 3rd-row comfort and ease of entry and exit." -- Consumer Guide
  • "During my two-week test drive of the 2010 Nissan Armada, I liked almost everything about the full-size SUV. However, I'll never buy one - not until its gas mileage improves." -- Mother Proof

Armada Performance - 8.0 (Very Good)

The best part of the Nissan Armada is its formidable powertrain.  Car and Driver  writes, "The throttle response rivals that of the excellent GM V8, an alluring burble pulses out the exhaust, and shifts of the five-speed transmission are almost undetectable."   Read More

Armada Exterior - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Armada's rugged styling stands out in the class, as does its size. Kelley Blue Book says, "The Armada is one of the most ornate SUVs we've seen. It has a raised roof, arched door frames and huge side fender flares." Read More

Armada Interior - 7.6 (Good)

The Armada can seat up to eight people, depending on how its interior is configured.  Second-row captain's chairs get positive reviews, but reviewers note that others in the class offer more cargo space. Read More

Armada Safety - NA

According to government crash tests, the 2010 Armada earns five of five stars in driver protection and four of five stars in front-passenger protection in frontal crash tests. Moreover, the Armada earns a rollover rating of three of five stars. Read More

Armada Reliability - 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Nissan Armada reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Armada is covered by a three-year/36,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warrantyRead More

Nissan Altima Sedan 2010


Nissan Altima Sedan 2010 is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 3 variants , namely the 2.5, 2.5S the 3.5 SR.

The Nissan Altima is a mid-size car (originally a compact car) manufactured by Japanese automaker Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima.


The name "Altima" originally referred to a trim line of the Nissan Laurel mid-size car.

Nissan Altima Sedan 2010 SPECIFICATIONS (Note: Some Spec might varies with variants):

Body style(s): 4 Door Sedan
Complete specifications: Specifications of Nissan Altima sedan
Colors: Dark Slate Metallic,Radiant Silver Metallic,Super Black,Winter Frost Pearl
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 20.0
Mileage(estimated)(city/highway): 23 / 32
Price Onwards: $19,900
Website: Nissan Altima Sedan 2010 US





Nissan Altima - What the Auto Press Says- usnews.rankingsandreviews.com


The 2010 Nissan Altima ranks 12 out of 22 Affordable Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 81 published reviews and test drives of the Nissan Altima, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2010 Nissan Altima is as practical and functional as the top midsize family sedans, but adds a dose of fun most of them lack. It’s no match for sports cars, but its crisp handling and lively acceleration make for entertaining commuting. However, Nissan's complex options lists might frustrate shoppers.

The 2010 Nissan Altima is one of just a handful of family sedans that reviewers consistently call fun-to-drive. You’re never going to beat a V8 muscle car in a drag race driving the family car, or out-corner a sharp little roadster on a winding road in something that can keep the four adults in your carpool comfortable in a traffic jam. But it is possible to buy a four-door, midsize car you'll look foward to driving, reviewers say. "The Altima is in some ways the sportier choice compared to the best-selling Toyota [Camry] and Honda [Accord]," Popular Mechanics writes. "Nissan estimates that 65 percent of Altima buyers are male (as opposed to roughly the same proportion of female buyers for the Toyota Camry), and its bolder styling and more subdued interior reflects an adherence to its somewhat masculine personality." It's not necessarily something that’s capable of illegal things, but something that makes the sort of legal, around-town driving that must of us have to do every day a little more fun.

Reviewers love the 2010 Nissan Altima's crisp handling. And while both of its available engines offer almost exactly the same amount of power as the powerplants in the Toyota Camry or Chevy Malibu, the Altima sends thrust through a Continuously Variable Transmission that puts down the power smoothly, giving it sprightly acceleration. It feels a little faster than those cars, test drivers say, even while putting up fairly similar performance measures in the sort of track testing that auto enthusiast magazines conduct.

Other Cars to Consider

Only a handful of rivals -- the Ford Fusion and Mazda6, for instance -- handle with the same confidence the Altima does. There may be a reason to look at those cars before settling on the Nissan, however. One knock against the Altima shows up in many reviews: The base model is a fairly Spartan car with few features, so few buyers will want it. But it isn’t easy to add features to an Altima. Most are available only as part of expensive options packages that drive the price up quickly. It’s possible to buy a cheap, stripped down Altima or an expensive, full-featured one. If you want something in the middle, or something you can configure to meet your own needs without spending a fortune -- well, you should probably test drive that Fusion, or an equally-sporty Mazda6. It gives buyers more negotiating room, thanks to Mazda's seven trim levels.

A newcomer to the race also deserves a mention. The sharp Suzuki Kizashi, reviewers say, is now one of the top performers in the midsize car class -- and it comes fairly well-equipped for under $22,000.
Nissan Altima: The Details

Sedan buyers should note that the four-door Altima is no longer offered with a manual transmission. The CVT is now your only option. A manual is available on the coupe, but reviewers say it’s a rubbery one, and the CVT actually outperforms it.

The Altima is also available as a sporty-looking coupe. In the affordable midsize car class, only the Honda Accord and the Altima offer two-door options.

In previous years, some shabby interior materials might have kept buyers away from the Altima. But Nissan has upgraded the fabrics and plastics inside the car for 2010, and made changes to the sheetmetal that give it a more muscular look.

The 2010 Nissan Altima sedan is available as a stripped-down base 2.5 model, a well-equipped 2.5S, or a V6-powered 3.5SR. Coupe editions are available only in 2.5S or 3.5SR trim -- and a 3.5SR edition runs nearly $30,000 before you start adding options. That price could send some buyers into the upscale midsize car class instead.

  • “Altima is a sporty alternative to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, with sedans giving up little in terms of everyday usability. The coupes attempt to be even sportier, but they ride stiffly and have little trunk space. Both body styles have subpar rear-seat room and comfort, and any Altima trails our class benchmarks for overall refinement." -- Consumer Guide
  • “Even with improved content and standard stability control, the Altima remains reasonably priced. The base 2.5 model, with a continuously variable transmission, lists for $19,900. That's a lot of car for the money.” -- Road and Track
  • "The Nissan Altima bundles contemporary styling, athletic driving manners and a cozy cabin in either coupe or sedan varieties. The smart execution of the Altima places it among our top picks for sporty family car." -- Edmunds
  • "While the sedan seems to go well with responsible adults who need to lug their family and friends around, the coupe feels like it just has more fun. And when you're driving the Altima coupe, you just smile a little bit more." -- Detroit News

Altima Performance - 8.5 (Very Good)

Many family sedans will reliably and comfortably get you from place to place, but only a few make it fun. The Nissan Altima is no sports car, but in the sort of neighborhood-speed stoplight-to-stoplight driving that makes up most of the time most people spend behind the wheel, it’s fun. “The Altima is athletic when driven well below its performance limits,” Popular Mechanics reports, “with feedback that suggests a strong inclination to be tossed into turns.” It’s not hard to drive like a sports car, however, as “the built-in understeer keeps the car out of trouble during most day-to-day driving conditions." Read More

Altima Exterior - 8.7 (Very Good)

For 2010, Nissan has made revisions to the Altima’s sheetmetal, particularly when viewed from the front. Some reviewers say the changes are subtle, while others call them quite noticeable. The Altima sedan looks a bit more aggressive than most family sedans, thanks to a prominent power bulge and sharp ridges in its hood. Coupe models have a fastback roofline that makes them look considerably sportier. Read More

Altima Interior - 7.6 (Good)

Nissan has significantly upgraded the quality of the materials found in the Altima’s cabin for 2010, and reviewers are happy with the changes. The Altima has always had a thoughtful ergonomic design, but Motor Trend says the new materials have been selected “to improve aesthetics and functionality, and to that end, they all succeed.” Reviewers note, however, that Nissan leaves buyers little choice between a fairly stripped-down model and an expensive near-luxury edition. Read More

Altima Safety - 9.2 (Excellent)

The 2010 Nissan Altima does well in federal government crash tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the car a more mixed review in its safety testing. For 2010, Nissan has made stability control standard equipment on the Altima -- answering critics who dinged the company for charging extra for the system in prior years. Read More

Altima Reliability - 7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Nissan Altima reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Nissan protects Altima buyers with a three-year/36,000-mile limited vehicle warranty, as well as a new, ten-year warranty covering the vehicle’s Continuously Variable Transmission. Read More

Review Last Updated: 5/5/10

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Nissan Altima Coupe 2010

Nissan Altima Coupe 2010 is a 2-door, 5-passenger family coupe, available in 4 variants namely the 2.5 S, 3.5 SR CVT, 2.5 S CVT, 3.5 SR 6M/T, .

The Nissan Altima is a mid-size car (originally a compact car) manufactured by Japanese automaker Nissan, and is arguably a continuation of the Nissan Bluebird line, which began in 1957. It has historically been larger, more powerful, and more luxurious than the Nissan Sentra but less so than the Nissan Maxima.


The name "Altima" originally referred to a trim line of the Nissan Laurel mid-size car.

Lexus RX 2010 SPECIFICATIONS (Note: Some Spec might varies with variants):

Body style(s): 2 Door Coupe
Complete specifications: Specifications Nissan Altima Coupe 2010
Colors: Code Red Metallic,
Crimson Black Metallic,Drk Slate Metallic,Navy Blue Metallic,Ocean Gray Metallic,
Radiant Silver Metallic,Super Black,Winter Frost Pearl
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 20.0
Mileage(estimated)(city/highway): 23 / 31
Price Onwards: $22,940
Website: Nissan Altima Coupe US


Sunday, May 23, 2010

Nissan 370Z Coupe 2010


Nissan 370Z Coupe 2010 is a 2-door, 2-passenger sports car, available in 3 variants, namely Base, Touring and NISMO. Nissan 370Z (known as the Fairlady Z in Japan) is a sports car manufactured by Nissan Motors.

Nissan 370Z was announced on October 29, 2008 and was first shown at an event in Los Angeles ahead of the 2008 Greater LA Auto Show, before being officially unveiled at the show itself.


Nissan 370Z Awards

  • JD Power and Associates Highest Ranked Compact Premium Sporty Car in Initial Quality 2009
  • Kelley Blue Book's Best Resale Value Award (2010)
  • Consumers Digest Automotive Best Buy Award
  • Best of What’s New by Popular Science

Nissan 370Z Engineering

Almost every piece and component of the 370Z has been redesigned from the previous model (350z). It is powered by the VQ37VHR 3.7 L (230 cu in) DOHC V6 with Variable Valve and Lift Control and produces 332 bhp (248 kW; 337 PS). Power delivery to the rear wheels comes through a new 7-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters or 6-speed manual transmission which features the world's first synchronized down shift rev-matching system, SynchroRev Match. The SynchroRev Match system is only available with the sports package. The differential offered with the Sport Package is indicated to be a viscous limited slip differential manufactured by Torsen.

Compared to the 350Z, the 370Z has a wheelbase 4 in (100 mm) shorter at 100.4 in (2,550 mm) and an overall length 2.7 in (69 mm) shorter at 167.1 in (4,240 mm). The overall width has been increased by 1.3 in (33 mm), the rear track by 2.2 in (56 mm), and overall height reduced by 0.3 in (7.6 mm). The smaller exterior dimensions and use of more lightweight materials help reduce weight. (Although it should be noted that a 2003-2005 base model 350Z is actually lighter in weight than the 370Z). The 370Z features a front aluminum subframe, aluminum-alloy engine cradle, aluminum door panels, an all-aluminum hood, and an aluminum hatch.

Front body torsion rigidity is improved by 10 percent with an extensively revised body structure which includes a new front suspension cradle to reduce front body lateral bending, new rear structural reinforcements, and an underbody "V-bar" to help reduce rear lateral bending. Additional enhancements include the use of a carbon fiber composite radiator housing and strengthening of the rear fender and hatch areas. Rear body torsion rigidity is improved by up to 22 percent and rear body vertical bending rigidity is improved by up to 30 percent. The new structure weighs slightly less than the 350z.

The coefficient of drag is 0.30 and 0.29 with the Sport Package, figures identical to the 350Z.-wikipedia

Nissan 370Z Coupe 2010 SPECIFICATIONS (Note: Some Spec might varies with variants):

Body style(s): 2 Door Coupe
Complete specifications: Complete specifications of Nissan 370Z Coupe 2010
Colors: Black Cherry,Brilliant Silver Metallic,Magnetic Black Metallic,
Monterey Blue,Pearl White ,Platinum Graphite Metallic,Solid Red
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 19.0
Mileage(est)(city/highway): 18/26
Price Onwards: $30,410
Website: Nissan 370Z Coupe 2010




Reviewed by edmund.com


Introduction

If you were to dream up the ideal attributes for a sports car, they'd probably end up a lot like those of the 2010 Nissan 370Z. With the Z, you've got a proper two-seater with rear-wheel drive, 300-plus horsepower, seductive styling, petite dimensions, big wheels and a curb weight under 3,300 pounds. It's seductively priced, too, starting right around $30,000. Of course, like many transitions from dream to reality, the real-world Z isn't perfect. But this latest incarnation of Nissan's iconic sports car is indeed something to lust after.

The redesigned 370Z coupe was introduced just last year, wowing us with performance numbers that are on par with much more expensive vehicles. As a 2010 encore, Nissan is bringing out the 370Z roadster. Equipped with a conventional soft top, the Z roadster is impressively similar in character to the coupe. It comes with the same drivetrain, a high-revving 3.7-liter V6 that's paired to either a six-speed manual transmission or a seven-speed automatic. The roadster's curb weight is only about 200 more pounds than the coupe's, and its suspension tuning is very similar. As such, the roadster mostly retains the coupe's quick reflexes and powerful acceleration.

Yet just when you think that the 370Z has given you a permanent pass to sports-car nirvana, a couple of character flaws surface. The V6 lacks aural flair and, more important, has a high-rpm coarseness that substantially dulls the enjoyment a driver would normally get from a spirited run. The Z is also noisy, particularly the coupe with the bigger tires and wheels. These might seem like spurious complaints -- aren't all sports cars noisy? -- but a performance car deserves an invigorating engine note, and excessive tire roar makes long freeway trips laborious.

These two flaws are unfortunate, as the rest of the 370Z package is stellar. Overall, Nissan deserves a salute for keeping the Z torch burning brightly. Even so, the door has been left open to other possibilities, including the more refined BMW 1 Series, the capable Hyundai Genesis coupe, the related (and considerably more polished) Infiniti G37, the inexpensive Mazda Miata and America's triumvirate of reborn pony/muscle cars. But if your dreams are about an affordable high-performance sports car, getting a 370Z is the best way to make them come true.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Nissan 370Z is offered as a two-seat coupe or a convertible soft-top roadster. The coupe is offered in base, Touring and Nismo trim levels, while the roadster comes in base and Touring only. Standard features for the base 370Z coupe include 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, heated side mirrors, cruise control, keyless ignition and entry, automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a tilt steering wheel, an eight-way manual driver seat and a four-speaker stereo with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.

The 370Z Touring coupe adds leather and faux suede upholstery, power seat adjustments, heated seats, a rear cargo cover, Bluetooth and an upgraded Bose stereo with six speakers, two subwoofers, an in-dash six-CD/MP3 changer and satellite radio. The track-focused 370Z Nismo comes with special 19-inch wheels, high-performance tires, a limited-slip rear differential, stiffer suspension tuning, a more powerfully tuned V6, upgraded brakes, unique front and rear fascias, a larger rear wing and special Nismo interior trim details.

The 370Z roadster comes standard with a power-operated soft top but is otherwise equipped similarly to the coupe, though the Touring roadster also has heated and ventilated seats. Optional on both 370Z models is a Sport package that adds 19-inch wheels, a limited-slip rear differential, upgraded brakes, front and rear spoilers, and the SynchroRev Match feature for manual-equipped cars. Optional on the Touring is a Navigation package that includes a hard-drive-based navigation system, real-time traffic and weather updates, Zagat restaurant reviews, voice recognition, digital music storage (9.3GB), Bluetooth audio streaming and an iPod interface.

The 40th Anniversary package (late availability) includes a unique two-tone interior with red trim, 40th Anniversary seatback embroidery and exterior badging, a car cover, gray-finished wheels, red-painted brake calipers and an exclusive gray exterior paint color. It will be offered only on the 370Z Touring manual transmission model with the Sport package.

Powertrains and Performance

Regular Nissan 370Zs are powered by a 3.7-liter V6 good for 332 hp and 270 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard. When equipped with the Sport package, a manual 370Z also comes with the SynchroRev Match feature, which automatically matches engine rpm to wheel speed during downshifts to make clutch re-engagements super-smooth. A seven-speed automatic transmission is optional and includes steering-column shift paddles and rev-matched downshifts of its own.

The 370Z Nismo has a tuned version of the same engine that develops 350 hp and 276 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed manual with SynchroRev Match is the only transmission offered.

In performance testing, a 370Z coupe with the Sport package went from zero to 60 mph in an impressively quick 5.1 seconds; a roadster we tested did it in 5.5 seconds. EPA estimated fuel economy for the coupe checks in at 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined with either transmission. Roadsters have an 18/25/21 mpg estimate with the automatic and 18/25/20 with the manual.

Safety

Standard safety equipment for the 2010 Nissan 370Z includes antilock brakes with brake assist, traction and stability control, front-seat side impact airbags, side curtain airbags (roof-mounted in the coupe and door-mounted in the roadster) and active head restraints. In Edmunds brake testing, a coupe with the Sport package's upgraded brakes stopped from 60 mph in a super-short 101 feet -- about the same as the outlandish Nissan GT-R supercar. A roadster with the Sport package took only 5 more feet to stop.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 370Z's cabin is notable for its unusually high-quality materials and solid construction. Touring models look even more high-class thanks to their leather upholstery and upgraded faux suede door inserts. The fully automatic top for this year's new roadster is lined and drops down beneath a body-color tonneau cover in about 20 seconds. Curiously, the Z doesn't have a telescoping steering wheel, but most drivers will find the driving position comfortable and sporty.

Neither version is going to haul around much stuff, though the equivalent of two or three duffel bags won't be a problem and the large structural brace that bisected the trunk in the old 350Z has thankfully been relocated. The coupe has 6.9 cubic feet of luggage space beneath its hatchback; the roadster's conventional trunk has 4.2. Rear visibility is a problem, as the thick rear roof pillars create large blind spots.

Driving Impressions

On the road, the 2010 Nissan 370Z provides unrelenting grip and razor-sharp control, yet it's also easy to drive; indeed, it generally makes you feel like a better driver than you are. The ride quality is European-like in its ability to be supple without mucking up the handling. However, the Sport package's 19-inch wheel-and-tire combo can get awfully noisy, especially on concrete highway slabs. Thankfully, the roadster fares a bit better in this regard than the hatchback coupe due to its enclosed trunk. The 370Z Nismo's ride quality is substantially stiffer, but the car's super-flat cornering attitude and tenacious grip make it a track-day star.

In any Z, the big V6 provides formidable thrust when you're hard on the throttle, yet it's also impressively tractable around town. Either transmission is a respectable choice. The manual shifter doesn't like to be rushed, but its hefty feel suits the overall solidity of the car. The automatic does a wonderful job of keeping the V6 on boil, and it provides quick blip-throttle downshifts in all modes. Disappointingly, though, the 370Z's V6 never sounds particularly special (even from the exhaust) and generates extraordinary vibration and harshness at high rpm.

2010 Nissan 370Z Touring Roadster - Short Take Road Test by caranddriver.com



We usually assess convertibles in terms of structural rigidity, the square root of all vehicle dynamics. Rubbery bones don’t enhance transient response, and there’s the disconcerting phenomenon of dashboard and steering column jiggling to the beat of slightly different sambas.

But that’s not the biggest concern of a team convertibilizing a fastback coupe. They’re wondering whether their baby will be seductive. Makes sense, right? After all, a guy surveying the traffic at a hookup bar isn’t thinking about structural rigidity (other than his own).

When it came along in 2003, the droptop Z car scored well on the rigidity meter. In our August ’03 comparo [“The Blow Dryers”], we noted a “feeling of enduring solidity” and that “nothing flexes.”

But the looks left us lukewarm, particularly with the top up. One pundit was reminded of the USS Monitor, the 1862 warship with a single turret perched on a long, flat deck.

Behold the 370Z convertible. Like the 350Z, it derives from a fastback coupe. But this convertible—which originated at Nissan Design America in San Diego—was more thoroughly baked into the new Z’s development program. The result is a design that’s much more integrated, much less a slab-sided afterthought.

In addition to its good looks, the new convertible is also easier to live with. The seating position is a little higher than before, providing a better view of what’s going on ahead. (Being in the command center in the previous Z-vertible was like sitting in a foxhole.) With the top up, the view straight astern is also improved, though here the distinction is academic, and as with so many convertibles, the rear-quarter sightlines are blind.

As you’d expect, the top is power operated—one switch does it all. It clamps itself to the windshield header with a resounding whack—a little too resounding, maybe, which also goes for the hard tonneau when the top stows itself. On the other hand, it’s at the high end of the cloth-top quality scale: nicely lined and better than many at damping wind noise.

With the top down, the cockpit remains relatively serene up to about 70 mph or so; the standard wind blocker seems to live up to its name; and conversation is possible at decibel levels below the scream threshold.

Which brings us back to structure. Nissan makes some strong claims under this heading—60 percent improved in lateral stiffness at the rear, for example—and after terrorizing our favorite back roads, we’re willing to believe them. Like the coupe, the new ragtop answers its helm with laser-guidance accuracy, grip is sticky at 0.95 g, and braking performance is very strong. Better yet, though the setup
is firm, ride quality suffers little.

However, more structure means more mass. Our test car weighed 3495 pounds, 135 more than the coupe that topped our April 2009 showdown [“SportsCenter”]. This adds a couple of 10ths to the 0-to-60-mph run, but 5.1 seconds is still pretty brisk.

Inevitably, this all adds up to more money. The base price—$37,690—is just $100 more than the outgoing 350Z roadster’s, but our upscale Touring edition starts north of the $40K frontier, edging closer toward Porsche Boxster territory. Then again, the Z roadster will smoke a standard Boxster. And look good doing it.

Monday, May 17, 2010

Audi A3 2010


Audi A3 2010 is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury wagon produced by the German automaker Audi since 1996, available in 6 variants, namely 2.0T Manual, 2.0T PZEV Manual, 2.0T with S tronic PZEV, 2.0T with S tronic, 2.0 TDI Clean Diesel with S tronic, 2.0T quattro with S tronic.


Audi A3 Awards and accolades

  • (2009) Green Car Journal's Green Car of the Year for 2010 (TDI Model)
  • (2009) Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick in midsize cars for 2010 model year
  • (2008) Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Top Safety Pick in midsize cars
  • (2007) Audi 2.0T FSI named International Engine of the Year (1.8L - 2.0L category)
  • (2006) International Car of the Year Entry-Level Car of the Year – “Most Spirited”
  • (2006) Auto Interior of the Year in popular-priced category
  • (2006) Named overall best New England Winter Vehicle by the New England Motor Press Association
  • (2006) Best Luxury Small Car Pick by BusinessWeek Magazine
  • (2006) South African Car of the Year
  • (2005) Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Double Best Pick for frontal-offset and side-impact tests
  • (2000) Brazilian Car of the Year
  • (1998) Federal German Prize for Product Design
  • (1997, 1999, 2000) Auto Motor und Sport readers' poll Best Car award
  • (1997) Autozeitung "Auto Trophy" award
  • (1996) Bild am Sonntag "Golden Steering Wheel" award

Audi A3 2010 SPECIFICATIONS:

Body style(s): 4 Door Wagon
Complete specifications: Specifications of Audi A3 2010
Colors: Aruba Blue Pearl Effect($),Brilliant Black,Brilliant Red,Ibis White,
Ice Silver Metallic($),Lava Gray Pearl Effect($),Meteor Gray Pearl Effect($),Monza Silver Metallic
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 15.9
Mileage(est)(city/highway): 21 / 30
Price Onwards: $27,270
Website: Audi A3 2010 US





Audi A3 reviewed by edmunds.com

In crowded European cities, small, space-efficient vehicles are very popular because of their versatility, fuel-efficiency and nimble nature. These vehicles exist in America as well, but they are not typically offered by luxury automakers, as it's assumed that Americans associate compact vehicles with cheapness. One vehicle meant to break that tradition is the Audi A3.

Introduced a decade ago in Europe and brought to the United States in 2006, the A3 is Audi's entry-level model for the North American market. Smaller and lighter than an A4 2.0T Avant Quattro, the front-drive Audi A3 presents a strong argument for buying a bargain sport wagon, provided one goes easy on the options. And just because this is Audi's entry-level car doesn't mean the company cuts corners on quality. The cabin's design and materials are up to the lofty standards Audi has set for the industry, meaning everything fits tightly, moves with precision and looks and feels top-shelf.

The A3 remains an alternative choice -- no other luxury automaker makes a directly competing small hatchback. It's an upscale alternative to more mainstream hatchbacks, a cheaper alternative to a regular luxury wagon, and with the clean-burning diesel engine, an extremely-fuel efficient alternative to hybrids. No matter how you look at it, though, the A3 offers the distinct German flavor of Audi, meaning one of engineering excellence combined with an upscale cabin.

Current Audi A3

The Audi A3 is available in Premium and Premium Plus trim levels. Slip inside and it's readily apparent that the A3 continues Audi's tradition of utilizing first-class materials throughout the cabin. Real metal rings around the dash vents and audio controls are accented by the solid action of the gear selector and climate-control dials. Standard features on the Premium include 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seating and a 10-speaker sound system. Step up to the Premium Plus and the list grows to include amenities like xenon headlights, Bluetooth and a power driver seat. Major options include a navigation system, heated seats, a sunroof and adaptive suspension dampers. But go crazy on the options and the A3's sticker will rapidly approach uncomfortable levels.

The A3 is offered with two appealing but very different engines. The first, more traditional choice is the gasoline-fueled turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder that produces 200 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. The other is a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder (dubbed TDI) that produces 140 hp and a healthy 236 lb-ft of torque. More impressively, it returns 34 mpg combined.

Gasoline-powered A3 models are offered with either front-wheel drive or Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The TDI is only offered with front-wheel drive. Front-wheel-drive gasoline models can be equipped with either a six-speed manual transmission or Audi's quick-shifting S tronic automated dual-clutch six-speed manual transmission. AWD models and the TDI are limited to the S tronic transmission.

As with the rest of the Audi family, the A3's chassis strikes an agreeable balance between athletic handling and a comfy ride. Its steering does a superb job of dampening out unwanted road vibrations and kickback without marring the sublime feedback enthusiast drivers crave. At the same time, the suspension keeps the Audi A3 buttoned down without transmitting harsh road impacts to the cabin. The most significant drawback to the A3 is its small backseat -- the lack of legroom makes it a tight fit for adults.

Used Audi A3 Models

The Audi A3 was introduced as a 2006 model in the United States. From 2006-'09 a 3.2-liter V6 engine was available that produced 250 hp and 236 lb-ft of torque. It was outfitted with Quattro and the S tronic transmission standard. Trim levels also corresponded with engine choice (2.0T and 3.2 Quattro).

There were other significant changes made for '09. The exterior and interior were refreshed, most notably with Audi's signature larger grille and LED running lights. Leather upholstery, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack became standard equipment, while the 2.0T could now be equipped with Quattro. Hill-hold assist was added to manual-transmission-equipped cars.

Friday, May 14, 2010

Mazda CX-7 2010


Mazda CX-7 2010 is a 4-door, 5-passenger sport-utility the production version of the MX-Crossport concept car.Built in Hiroshima, Japan, starting in early 2006. The CX-7 was shown publicly for the first time at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show in January, available in 6 variants, namely i SV, i Sport, s Touring, s Touring AWDS Grand Touring AWD, S Grand Touring.

Mazda CX-7 2010 SPECIFICATIONS:

Body style(s): 4 Door Suv
Complete specifications: Complete specification of Mazda CX-7 2010
Colors: Black Cherry Mica,Brilliant Black,Copper Red,Crystal White Pearl($),
Liquid Silver Metallic,Stormy Blue Mica
Fuel Capacity:(gal) 16.4/18.2
Mileage(est)(city/highway): 17/23 (varies with variant)
Price Onwards: $21,700
Website: Mazda CX-7 2010 Homepage





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