Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts

2011 Jeep Compass


Jeep, Chrysler Group LLC "combined with a new interior and improved suspension systems and direction, the Jeep Compass offers consumers the perfect combination of design, functionality, fuel economy, efficiency, safety and value the importance of the compact SUV segment.

Offering unsurpassed 4x4 fuel economy and off-road capability in the compact-SUV segment, the new 2011 Jeep Compass features a stunning new sophisticated design, with cues coming directly from the brand's premium icon, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee.

Design

The new 2011 Jeep Compass has a distinct family resemblance to the all-new, premium 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.

The 2011 Compass sports new, standard 17-inch aluminum wheels, and 18-inch aluminum or chrome-clad wheels are available on Limited models.

The 2011 Jeep Compass is packed with standard features that provide value and convenience for drivers and passengers.

Segment-leading Capability

The 2011 Jeep Compass offers customers unsurpassed 4x4 off-road capability with Jeep Freedom Drive II. Jeep Compass is available in three drivetrain configurations. In addition to the standard front-wheel-drive system, Jeep Compass also is available with Freedom Drive I and the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package.

The Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package is an available four-wheel-drive system that delivers Jeep Trail Rated capability in Compass form. Jeep Compass also features a standard five-speed manual transaxle on the entry-level Compass and a CVT that is available on the Compass and standard on the Latitude and Limited models. The 2011 Jeep Compass also provides up to 2,000 lbs. of towing capacity.

Jeep Compass Model Lineup

The
2011 Jeep Compass is available in three configurations: Compass, Latitude and Limited. All are available with front-wheel drive, the Freedom Drive I full-time, active 4x4 system or the Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package full-time, active 4x4 system with low-range capability.

Built at the Belvidere Assembly Plant in Belvidere, Ill., the new 2011 Jeep Compass models will arrive in Jeep showrooms in December 2010.



2011 Ferrari 599 GTO


Justice Department officials are trying to seize more than $70 million in assets — including a Malibu mansion and Michael Jackson memorabilia — owned by the playboy son of the dictator of Equatorial Guinea.

Attempts to reach a spokesman at the Equatorial Guinea Embassy were unsuccessful. The action is the largest effort to date by the Justice Department’s Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative, created this year to target and recover the proceeds of foreign corruption laundered through the United States.

The nonprofit claims credit for exposing Nguema’s mansion overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Malibu in 2006.

In an interview in Cairo last month, Hasham Gaafar, a senior attorney in the Egyptian prosecutor’s office, said Swiss and United Kingdom authorities have been more responsive to Egypt’s request to freeze and seize assets of former president Hosni Mubarak.

The new
Ferrari 599 GTO is an extreme V12 berlinetta developed to a specific performance-oriented brief. The Ferrari 599 GTO is, in fact, the company's fastest ever road car. The Ferrari 599 GTO is reserved for just 599 clients who seek the maximum expression of high-performance driving. As is Ferrari's policy, every new Ferrari features new solutions for a road car.

WEIGHT REDUCTION
The Ferrari 599 GTO inherits much of the development work - using the same principles as employed in F1 - that went into making the 599XX such an extreme performance car. Thanks to solutions transferred from the track car to the road-going version, the GTO generates downforce of 144 kg at 200 km/h. The Ferrari 599 GTO has 20" rims.

BRAKES
As well as their role in improving aerodynamics, the Formula 1-derived wheel doughnuts also improve braking efficiency by optimising brake cooling.

CAR-DRIVER INTERFACE
The car-driver interface was designed to maximise car and driver performance with a layout of the main commands that ensures absolute efficiency and minimum distraction. In addition the GTO also features the Virtual Race Engineer, a system that monitors the status of the car and gives the driver immediate visibility of vehicle performance.
Ferrari 599 GTO technical specifications
Front track: 1701 mm (67.0 in)
Rear track: 1618 mm (63.7 in)
Dry weight: 1495 kg (3296 lbs)
Kerb weight: 1605 kg (3538 lbs)
Weight distribution: 47% front - 53% rear

ENGINE SUSPENSION
SCM2 - Magnetorheological Supension Control
TYRES
Front: 285/30 ZR20"
Rear: 315/35 ZR20"
CARBON-CERAMIC BRAKES
Front: 398 x 38 mm (15.7 x 1.5 in)
ELECTRONIC CONTROLS
PERFORMANCE
antaneous information on performance.

2011 Subaru Forester


The 2011 Forester is Subaru's third generation of crossover SUV. Based on the Impreza platform, the Subaru Forester features a multi-link rear suspension, fuel-saving electric power steering and Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control.

The vehicle was assigned to an entry level technician. The first step in diagnosing a vehicle problem is to verify the complaint. The technician could have connected the scan tool and test drove with the scan tool communicating with the vehicle. The technician was able to retrieve a fault code P0102 for the mass airflow sensor. The technician requested a mass airflow sensor (MAF).

All Forester vehicles feature Subaru's Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system, and customers can choose the new-for-summer-2011 2.0-litre Boxer petrol engine - returning 37.7mpg (combined) and a low CO2 emission figure of 173g/km - or the new, even more frugal Boxer diesel engine (47.9mpg, combined) which also offers an impressive between-fills range of 625 miles (1,000km).

EQUIPMENT AND DESIGN
The diesel Subaru Forester offers outstanding equipment levels with even the base Forester 2.0D X featuring Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, self-levelling rear suspension, fuel-saving electric power steering, front, side and curtain airbags and 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels with 215 / 65 tyres.

The petrol Subaru Forester line-up starts with the entry-level Forester 2.0 X. It features Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, self-levelling rear suspension, fuel-saving electric power steering, front, side and curtain airbags, four electric windows, 60 / 40-split rear seats with reclining back-rests, climate-control air-conditioning, radio / CD player, front fog lamps, vehicle information display, height and reach-adjustment steering wheel, heated front seats, mirrors and windscreen wipers plus cruise-control and 16-inch alloy wheels.

Manual models feature a dual-range transmission.
Finally, the higher-spec Forester 2.0 XS petrol offers 17-inch alloy wheels; leather seats, steering wheel, gear-lever and handbrake; premium audio system featuring a built-in rear reversing camera and a large display screen for ease-of-use; HID headlamps; sun-roof, electrically powered driver's seat; electrically folding door mirrors; retractable rear seat tray with cup-holder; engine starter button and keyless 'smart' entry.

NEW BOXER DIESEL IN DETAIL
This configuration enhances handling agility and road holding - especially when combined with Subaru's renowned Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive system.

Diesel Subaru Forester's top speed and 0-60mph figure are among the best in the compact SUV class. The latest Subaru Boxer petrol engine delivers improved environmental credentials compared to its predecessor, while also affording smooth acceleration. The new FB-A engine (found in the 2.0 X and XS Forester models) offers stronger low and mid-range pulling power, enhanced flexibility and improved fuel economy, as well as lower exhaust emissions.

Urban / extra urban / combined fuel consumption figures are now 29.1 / 44.8 / 37.7mpg for the Subaru Forester 2.0 X and XS automatic models, with an improved CO2 figure of 174g/km. The four-speed automatic achieves the 0-60mph dash in 12.3 seconds, with a maximum speed of 115mph, while improved torque allows higher gearing for improved refinement and economy, with no sacrifice in engine response.

TRANSMISSION
The Forester diesel boasts a six-speed manual gearbox with optimised ratios for quiet, refined high-speed cruising and flexible low-speed manoeuvres.

SYMMETRICAL ALL-WHEEL-DRIVE
All Forester models enjoy the benefits of Subaru's acclaimed full-time Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system, as well as Subaru Vehicle Dynamics Control, as standard.

The Subaru Forester's quick-thinking full-time Symmetrical AWD system splits power 50 / 50 per cent front / rear as its default setting. A sophisticated Symmetrical All-Wheel-Drive system, low-friction, long-travel four-wheel independent suspension and low-centre-of-gravity Boxer engine, all contribute to the Subaru Forester's reputation for outstanding chassis dynamics.

A rear anti-roll bar is standard.

For the Boxer diesel Subaru Forester, the front damping has been firmed up together with the steering to sharpen handling and compensate for the 45kg increase in engine weight.
The Subaru Forester X models feature 16 x 6.5-inch alloy wheels with 215/65 R 16 tyres, while Forester XC, XS and XS NavPlus have 17 x 7.0-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R 17 tyres.
Unlike the previous model, the new Forester has ventilated front disc brakes.

Not only does the elimination of the previous
Subaru Forester's front sub-frame reduce weight by 20kg, but the new structure better dissipates front impact forces.

2011 Isuzu Rodeo 3.0 Denver


Isuzu Rodeo is earnest point out That range on Commercial Show's vehicle, Among 12th and 14th April at Birmingham 's NEC.

Line ups will of Denver's singles taxi comprise 2.5 liters, is Denver's double cab 2.5 LE 3.0 liters and liters.

Prices for the 2011 Rodeo line-up range from £12,699 to £22,549 (commercial vehicle on the road), and because of their 1,000 kg-plus payloads, all Rodeos allow a VAT registered company to reclaim the VAT.

Isuzu is the world's biggest manufacturer of diesel engines and appropriately, its four cylinder power units for the Isuzu Rodeo pickup range deliver best-in-class combinations of fuel-economy, emissions, performance and refinement.
Available in two capacities (2.5 and 3.0 litres), the Isuzu diesel for Rodeo is fitted with a top mounted intercooler and five-speed manual gearbox as standard.

Standard transmission for Isuzu Rodeo is a five-speed manual gearbox with a high top gear ratio - 0.745:1 (2.5) and 0.790:1 (3.0) - for quieter and more fuel-efficient motoring at higher cruising speeds. The Rodeo's Double-Cab and Single-Cab cargo dimensions, payload capacity and towing weights are among the very best available in the UK's pickup marketplace.

Off-road, the Rodeo Double-Cab's credentials promise an amazing capability. The maximum transverse angle is a remarkable 49 degrees and Isuzu's pickup can wade through 600 mm deep water at 5 mph. The rear axle even has a snorkel to enable the Rodeo to 'breathe' under water.

Ground clearance is 195 mm, wading depth 400 mm and towing capacity 2,500 kg.

It features large 280 mm ventilated front discs with twin-piston calipers which enhance braking performance and ensure even brake pad wear.

Alloy wheels are standard on all Isuzu Rodeo Double Cab derivatives in the UK - 16 x 7 inch with 245/70 R16 tyres on most models, with 18 x 8.5 inch alloys and 255/60 R18 tyres for the Rodeo Denver Max LE.

The Isuzu Rodeo has built-in strengths that also deliver benefits in terms of safety. The Rodeo's EBD compensates for the front and rear load differences during braking - before the ABS intervenes - preventing rear wheel lock-up which can affect some pickups.

Passive' safety kit fitted to all Rodeos includes twin front airbags and impact-resistant side protection beams for all doors.

Every
Isuzu Rodeo occupant benefits from a three-point seatbelt - even for the rear centre passenger in double-cab models. This works by changing the code between the key and the vehicle every time the Isuzu Rodeo is locked and unlocked.

2011 Mazda Takeri Concept


The Takeri also majors on Mazda's much-vaunted SkyActiv Technology, which aims to reduce fuel consumption by a series of advancements in powertrain, chassis and body technology.

In addition to alluring styling, the Takeri also features a full array of SKYACTIV technologies, Mazda’s umbrella heading for its coming range of fuel saving features.

In the case of the Takeri there is a new SKYACTIV-D clean diesel engine, almost certainly a preview of a new diesel engine to be offered on the next-generation Mazda6, as well the usual engine stop-start tech, aerodynamic aids, a lightweight chassis using ultra-high tensile steel, and regenerative brakes.

Based on Mazda's new design language, 'KODO - Soul of Motion', the Mazda Takeri is designed to express "an intuitive sedan identity" and "an overwhelming emotional beauty" as the latest platform for Mazda's breakthrough SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY. It also features the i-stop idling stop system and Mazda's first regenerative braking system.

Thanks to these electric devices, the
Mazda Takeri Concept achieves excellent fuel economy.

The regenerative braking system represents Step Two of Mazda's Building Block Strategy.

2011 Smart forvision Concept


2011 smart forvision concept is a unique car which is also displayed at Frankfurt International Motor Show this year. On the show, this car can attract many people because of this unique style. It makes the 2011 smart forvision concept become one of suitable car to increase the confidence of its driver.

This car is quite small compared to common car.

The joint concept vehicle smart forvision presented at the 2011 International Motor Show in Frankfurt combines a futuristic design with technologies relating to energy efficiency, lightweight design and temperature management.

In addition to transparent organic solar cells, transparent and energy-saving light-emitting diodes and infrared-reflective films and coatings, high-performance foams are used for insulation against cold and heat. Thanks to the combination of smart's automotive expertise and BASF's material and system competence a vehicle has been created which showcases technologies for sustainable and holistic electric mobility of the future.

The hexagonal transparent areas on the roof of the smart forvision are an eye-catching feature - as the first light-transmitting roof that also generates energy. The transparent dyes of the solar cells are light-activated.

The multifunctional, comfortable and lightweight seats in the smart forvision offer a unique combination of efficient temperature management and an energy-saving lightweight design.

Compared with conventional climate-controlled seats the lightweight seat in the smart forvision does not have the complexity and energy requirement of mechanical ventilation.
As a large amount of energy is needed to air condition and heat a vehicle, temperature management was a key focus area for the smart and BASF researchers.

An important side effect: the colour white reflects heat rays from sun and light particularly well.

Painted in pearl white and accentuated by the tridion safety cell coated with a copper-coloured liquid metal paint, there is a deliberate connection between the basic structure of the smart forvision and the design of the smart fortwo. The lights add to the likeable expression of the smart forvision.

The smart forvision not only shows that electric mobility can make emission-free driving possible.

2011 Audi A2 Concept


Audi's ultra-green city car has come a step closer to joining the family, with the debut in Frankfurt this week of the new Audi A2 Concept.

Energy is provided by a 31kWh lithium-ion battery, with 24kWh of that made available to the electric motor. Audi promises a driving range of around 200km off one charge, putting the A2 into the higher-range end of electric vehicles.

A package of LEDs and microreflectors generate a high-resolution and non-glaring high-beam light. Delicate daytime running light fibers frame the highly efficient LED low-beam light module.

Intelligent tail lights adapt their illumination to the visibility conditions. The dynamic light runs below the edge of the window from the front to the rear of the Audi A2 concept - a band of light that contains a multitude of innovative, dynamic light functions.

While driving, the dynamic light functions as a continuous side marker light. If the car's indicator is activated, light impulses run throughout the entire band of light.

The
Audi A2 concept has a flat interior floorboard. The center console is attached to the driver's seat; the rear console extends forward between the two rear seats. Aluminum elements create highlights the cockpit.

2011 Opel Rak E Concept




Not to be outdone by its German counterparts, Opel displayed its vision for a low-cost urban commuter with the two-seater RAK e concept car.

Powering the concept is an electric motor that generates a peak output of 49HP (36.5kW) and a continuous 14HP (10.5kW), while energy is drawn from a 5kWh battery. "We want to develop electric vehicles that everyone can afford," said Karl-Friedrich Stracke, Opel CEO, in Frankfurt.

Opel is staking a strong claim for the center of attention with an all-new battery-powered electric vehicle. The Opel RAK e Concept opens a new chapter in electric mobility and extends Opel's pioneering role in alternative propulsion systems.

The range-extending concept of the Ampera demonstrates our leadership in electrification of the automobile, the Opel RAK e experimental vehicle aims to deliver pricing that even younger customers can afford. In 1928 RAK 2 catapulted the grandson of company-founder Adam Opel to a top speed of 228 km/h. The potential of the spectacular experimental vehicle is reflected in the innovative design.

"1-Euro Car": Electric Propulsion with Minimal Running Costs
Young, environmentally conscious, or technology-fans, the Opel RAK e appeals to a variety of customers for whom the cool looks of an electric vehicle are as important as its energy consumption.

Around three meters long and 119 cm high, the aerodynamic Opel RAK e offers zero-emission driving at minimal running costs.

Early Start: Electric Driving Aged 16
Weighing only 380 kg the Opel RAK e is only one third of the weight of a modern small car. It takes very little energy for Opel RAK e to deliver such performance - peak power output is 36.5 kW/49 hp; 10.5 kW/14 hp is continuously available. Over an annual 10,000 km the Opel RAK e's energy consumption would therefore be a modest 525 kWh.

2011 Honda Civic Type R Mugen 2 2


2011 Honda Civic Type R Mugen 2.2 is the unique car from Honda which designed by Northampton-based MUGEN Euro. The racing touch is also makes this car looks impressive and interesting for the racing car fan.

The fast run is the most reflected improvement for this car.
Compared to a standard Honda Civic Type R, both power and torque are up 30 per cent.

When coupled to the host of motorsport-derived components created exclusively by Mugen - including sports suspension, uprated brakes and a stunning performance bodykit - the Mugen 2.2 represents the ultimate expression of the Honda Civic Type R philosophy.

The Honda K20 engine has also powered the only two complete road cars produced by Mugen; the Honda Civic Mugen RR four-door saloon sold in Japan, plus the limited Honda Civic Type R Mugen sold in the UK.

Hiro Toyoda, vice-president of Mugen Euro, commented: "Environmental pressures mean naturally aspirated engines are rapidly being superseded by other engine architectures and technologies.

2011 Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition


The Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition is offered with a carbon fiber front fascia, while both models feature a carbon weave following the form of the dashboard, leather quilted headliner and carbon covered magnesium alloy paddles for the Toutchtronic II automatic gearbox.

Flame Orange and Ceramic Grey join the existing Carbon Black color for the new release.

Carbon fiber fascia on the dashboard finishes the unique touches.

Following on from the success of the DBS Carbon Black, introduced in 2009, the 2011 Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition will be available in two new colours including Flame Orange and Ceramic Grey together with the existing Carbon Black.

The Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition features 10-spoke gloss black diamond turned wheels with a reversed diamond turned or full gloss black finish as an option. The interior of a Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition will take in excess of 70 man hours to hand stitch and finish.

On the
Aston Martin DBS Carbon Edition coupe, the headlining is quilted in leather providing a luxurious envelope to the cabin.


2011 Land Rover DC100 Sport Concept


Two new Land Rover concepts have been unveiled at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, named DC100 and DC100 Sport, illustrating the development of a new Land Rover Defender due to be launched in 2015.

The Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport embody the flexibility, adaptability and configurability attributed to Land rover.

The Land Rover DC100 concept demonstrates the future of Land Rover capability and versatility, while the DC100 Sport expresses freedom and leisure.

Technical Capabilities of The Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport Concepts
Sir Ranulph Fiennes has uses Land Rover vehicles from the original 1948 model to the current Land Rover Defender throughout his variety of extraordinary expeditions and journeys.

Kathy Gill, Director of Biosphere Expeditions, said: "Land Rover Defenders are crucial to the running of our expeditions.

Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport concepts - two modern interpretations of the iconic Land Rover made their debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show. Both concepts capture the adventurous, daring, indomitable spirit of Land Rover.

The Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport concepts preview a potential future direction for Land Rover. Every Land Rover design starts with great proportions, and these concepts are no exception.

DC100 Sport represents a more assertive, performance-oriented interpretation of this classic Land Rover look.

As a dependable all-terrain workhorse, DC100 firmly emphasises the practical side of Land Rover.

With DC100 Sport, Land Rover has created a unique concept that occupies its own territory.

Like the original Land Rovers, the DC100 concepts have a central instrument binnacle mounted above the gear lever.

As with any Land Rover, both DC100 designs have towing and load-carrying capabilities that exceed expectations but use two different and well-proven Land Rover suspension systems specifically tailored to their distinct performance parameters.

Further allowing the concepts to adjust to changing conditions is a driver-deployable spiked tyre system
Land Rover has adopted Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology to increase the accessibility, usability and security of the concepts.

2011 Seat IBL Concept


The 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show sees SEAT continue the exciting development of its design DNA with the world debut of the new SEAT IBL concept car.

The IBL completes SEAT's exciting series of concept cars that define the genetic design pool for the ongoing development of the sporty Spanish brand's cars.

Now, with the IBL, SEAT is turning its attention to the reinterpretation of the sports saloon.

At 4.67 metres long and 1.85 metres wide, the SEAT IBL falls into the full-size saloon category. At the front, the IBL is distinguished by the familiar 'arrow' nose, the classic core element of SEAT design. The SEAT IBL is form at its purest level, the essence of SEAT design.

Mr Mesonero-Romanos said: 'The interior of SEAT IBL Concept is in total harmony with its exterior design.

La casa automobilistica spagnola Seat presenta al Salone di Francoforte 2011 la nuova Exeo restyling, la versione aggiornata di questa poco fortunata vettura media di segmento D, nata per terminare le scorte di magazzino della vecchia generazione di Audi A4 (quella identificata dal codice industriale B7).

2011 Volvo You Concept



The blend of contemporary Scandinavian design, exquisite craftsmanship and intuitive technology will appeal to luxury car buyers all over the world," Said Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

Ironically, this car is supposed to be based on Volvo's new scaleable architecture, which is only supposed to accept a new range of four-cylinder, 2.0-litre engines.

The steering wheel features wood and leather with aluminium and glass paddles complete with integrated touch-screens.

The
Volvo Concept You's central touch screen data can be "flipped" by the driver to the head-up display as well as exchange data with the rear passengers.

The Concept You is driver orientated at the front whilst offering comfort for rear passengers. The colour scheme is dark at the front, with the front seats fading towards the rear's lighter seating area, with the interior moulding into the rear seat to become part of the seating environment.

The off-black front seats feature suede in the centre for optimal grip.

The blend of contemporary Scandinavian design, exquisite craftsmanship and intuitive technology will appeal to luxury car buyers all over the world," says Stefan Jacoby, President and CEO of Volvo Car Corporation.

This car features a more daring, coupรฉ -like profile than the Universe Concept, while the front moves towards a more classic Volvo look," explains Peter Horbury, Vice President Design at Volvo Car Corporation.

The
Volvo You Concept radiates several aspects of Volvo Car Corporation's new, customer focused "Designed Around You" strategy:

Volvo's cars are intuitive and uncomplicated. The luxurious interior of the Volvo You Concept features a blend of intuitive smart pad technology and first-class craftsmanship.

The
Volvo You Concept design also integrates the luxurious qualities of a tailor made suit into the car.

2011 GMC Sierra HD

The 2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD is offered in regular cab, extended cab or crew cab body styles. Trim levels start at the base Work Truck and climb to the SLE, SLT and new range-topping Denali.

The Work Truck trim level includes 17-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, a trip computer, vinyl floor coverings, a 40/20/40-split front bench with fold-down center armrest, vinyl upholstery, a tilt steering wheel and a four-speaker AM/FM stereo. Many of the SLE features are available on the Work Truck as options.

The SLT trim level is only offered on extended and crew cab body styles and augments the SLE's features list by adding 18-inch alloy wheels, foglights, an automatic locking rear differential, a heavy-duty trailering package (with integrated trailer brake controller), heated exterior mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, steering-wheel-mounted cruise and audio controls, remote starting, heated leather front bucket seats with power adjustments, a floor-mounted front center console, Bluetooth, and an upgraded Bose stereo system with a USB port. The standard power plant for the 2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD is a 6.0-liter gasoline V8 engine that produces 360 hp and 380 lb-ft of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard for all models, with four-wheel drive optional.

Properly equipped, a
2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD can haul up to 3,704 pounds of payload and tow up to 13,000 pounds with its standard ball hitch, and 16,500 pounds with a fifth-wheel connection. Aiding trailering on downhill grades, the diesel engine also features a big-rig-inspired exhaust braking system to increase control and reduce brake wear.

In terms of safety, the
2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD features antilock disc brakes, stability control, hill-start control and trailer sway control as standard. Front side and side curtain airbags are available as an option.

The
2011 GMC Sierra 2500HD's interior is nearly identical to the previous year's. The extended cab's rear seats are acceptable in terms of comfort, and the crew cab is certainly roomier, though the crew cab trucks from Dodge and Ford provide slightly roomier rear quarters.

Driving Impressions
With all of its chassis improvements, the
2011 GMC Sierra 2500 represents a big step forward for heavy-duty trucks.

2011 GMC Savana

The 2011 GMC Savana passenger van receives a few updates for 2011, the most notable being the new 6.6-liter Duramax V8 turbodiesel. Now in its 16th year, the current-generation GMC Savana passenger van continues to evolve, carrying over the LS and LT trim levels, which offer seating for up to 15 passengers.

Both rear- and all-wheel-drive variants are available, and they come rated in half-ton 1500 and heavy-duty 2500/3500 variants. For fans of engine power, the Savana offers the highest-output gas and diesel engines in the segment.

The
2011 GMC Savana full-size passenger van is offered in basic LS and well-equipped LT trim levels. The regular-length version with its 115-inch wheelbase is available in half-ton 1500 trim and heavy-duty 2500 and 3500 series with seating for eight to 12 passengers.

The
2011 GMC Savana offers four different powertrains depending on payload rating. The 1500 series features a 5.3-liter V8 with 310 hp and 334 lb-ft of torque, backed by a four-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive or available AWD.

GMC Savana passenger vans feature standard antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, OnStar communications and head curtain side-impact airbags for the first three rows of seating.

The GMC Savana's cabin is definitely geared for function over form. Rear passengers fare better, with the optional 60/40-split driver-side doors making access to the rear seats much easier.

Eight-passenger seating is standard on 1500 models, while 12-passenger seating is included on 2500 and 3500 series vans. A 15-passenger configuration is available on the extended-wheelbase 3500.






2011 GMC Canyon

The 2011 GMC Canyon is a compact truck available with two- or four-wheel drive in three body styles: regular cab, extended cab and crew cab. Crew cabs are equipped with a 5-foot cargo box, while other Canyons feature a 6-foot bed. The extended-cab SLE boasts full power accessories and remote keyless entry.

The extended-cab SLT adds chrome wheels, a leather-trimmed interior and power heated front bucket seats, while the crew cab SLT comes with these features as well as a heavy-duty suspension.

No fewer than three different engines are offered for the
2011 GMC Canyon, including an inline-4, an inline-5 and a V8.
The 5.3-liter V8 (only offered on extended-cab and crew cab models) makes 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque.

The Work Truck and SLE models come standard with the 2.9-liter engine but can be equipped with the 3.7-liter engine. Rear-wheel drive is standard, while the available four-wheel drive features a shift-on-the-fly two-speed transfer case with push-button controls and an optional locking rear differential.

The
2011 GMC Canyon comes standard with the OnStar emergency communications system, antilock brakes, stability control, traction control and head curtain airbags.
The extended- and regular-cab styles earned four stars for driver and front passenger in frontal impacts and four stars for front side impacts.

In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety frontal-offset crash testing, the Canyon extended cab earned a top rating of "Good," while the crew cab got an "Acceptable" rating (second highest of four).

The Canyon's standard suspension is calibrated for a soft and comfortable ride on pavement, while the available Z71 Off-Road Suspension package improves off-road performance at the expense of on-road compliance.

2011 GMC Acadia

The GMC Acadia Denali seems, from the exterior, that it would be the perfect family vehicle. For starters, it advertises 7 passenger seating. Bummer.

Also, for a family vehicle you would assume that there would at least be space in the rear for groceries. With the 3rd row seat in position there is barely enough room for a case of soda. Trying to fit groceries into this space is a fight. The rear air-conditioning system in the
2011 Acadia Denali is loud.

The
2011 GMC Acadia now is available in the premium Denali trim level, which features unique styling elements and a plusher cabin. Available with either front- or all-wheel drive, the Acadia is powered by a strong V6 engine.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The
2011 GMC Acadia is a large crossover SUV offered in five trims: base SL, SLE, SLT-1, SLT-2 and Denali. The SLT-1 ups the ante with 19-inch wheels, heated mirrors, a variable-assist steering system, tri-zone automatic climate control, rear audio controls and headphone jacks, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a 10-speaker Bose stereo with a USB audio jack.

The SLT-2 adds power-folding heated mirrors with driver-side auto-dimming, additional power adjustments for the front passenger seat, driver memory functions and a Towing Preparation package.

The plush Denali trim level adds unique body treatment (including grille, front/rear fascias, side moldings and wheel flares), 20-inch chrome wheels with black chrome accents, xenon headlights, additional sound insulation, illuminated sill plates, the "SkyScape" power front/fixed rear dual sunroofs, a head-up display, perforated leather upholstery, heated/ventilated front seats and a leather/wood steering wheel.

EPA fuel economy estimates for the front-wheel-drive Acadia are 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive Acadia models are very close at 16/23/19 mpg. Properly equipped, the Acadia can tow up to 5,200 pounds.

Safety
Depending on the configuration chosen, the Acadia seats either seven passengers (with second-row captain's chairs) or eight passengers (with a split-folding second-row bench seat) in three rows. Maximum cargo capacity is a generous 117 cubic feet with the second- and third-row seats folded down.

Driving Impressions
Like the other large General Motors crossovers, the
2011 GMC Acadia hits a happy medium between secure handling and a comfortable ride. Opting for the larger 19- or 20-inch wheels can also degrade the Acadia's ride quality.

2011 Ferrari California

California Love by 2Pac kept running through my head as I drove the Sea to Sky Highway in Ferrari's retractable hardtop showcase called California.

This front-engine Ferrari is the gateway into the "club," offering a lower price point and a more accessible daily driver compared with the exotic and more expensive mid-engine offerings from Maranello.

With a starting price of $239,000, this is still a very expensive car, but one that Ferrari has positioned as its volume seller.

This shape has been used before, but with all the Ferrari bits added on, this car demands attention.

THE COCKPIT
The interiors of Ferrari cars have baffled me for many years.

Case in point is the radio/navigation unit used in the California. The ride, steering, engine and light feel of the California do make this California Love.

The California is the kind of car that many high-end convertible owners would thoroughly enjoy.

If the owner of a Mercedes SL 63 AMG were to try this car they would notice how light and un-German the California performs. Power: 4.3-litre V8 with 460hp
Sticker price: $239,000


2011 Ferrari 599

,The 2011 Ferrari 599 GTO is all new.

Introduction
The 2011 599 GTO represents the pinnacle (so far) from Ferrari, as the company's fastest road car ever built. The GTO also takes a few playbook pages from the 599XX, Ferrari's rare racetrack-only variant. Further complicating a 599 GTO acquisition is its estimated cost of $750,000. Ouch.

In producing the 599 GTO—the fastest-ever Ferrari road car, at least in terms of lap times around Ferrari’s home track (Fiorano)—the engineers in Maranello, Italy, focused on four key areas: increasing power, decreasing weight, reducing understeer and improving downforce.

Ferrari says the GTO’s 6.0-liter V-12 is “about 90 percent of the 599XX’s engine.” Besides adopting the 599XX’s crankshaft and intake system, the GTO V-12 has new connecting rods and pistons, raised 11.9:1 compression (up from the GTB’s 11.2: 1 ratio) and the 599XX’s lighter (and 8-decibel louder) exhaust—with catalytic converters, of course. The result is 661 bhp at 8250 rpm and 458 lb.-ft. of torque at 6500 rpm, which make the 599 GTO the most powerful road-going Ferrari ever.

Besides being more powerful, the 599 GTO is 220 lb. lighter than the GTB (which weighed 3865 lb. on our scales). Ferrari says these brakes were absolutely required to cope with the Ferrari 599’s increased performance level.


2011 Ferrari 458 Italia

Following the model F430 Ferrari, the Italian car maker presented the model F458 in September of 2009. Solingen company Wimmer Rennsporttechnik added some extra horsepower to the initial 570hp and only endowed the car with 588hp and 562Nm. Optimization of the software costs an astonishing 2,999 euros for just 18hp.

"The Ferrari is an extremely well-balanced car. Steering is super-accurate.

"This car is really, really impressive. I had all stability controls turned off, and this the kind of car where you can live without 'em.

On the steering... "It's a confidence-inspiring car, but still sharp. I still felt like I was always steering the car with the steering wheel. Full-tread street tires. I don't have to spend time catching the car much."

"It puts down power amazingly well, unlike some of the other powerful cars. It just digs off a corner. Powerful engine, very fast car. Very fast. Overall... The car's fabulous. Fabulous."

Accepts power con brio. Fast, smooth, aggressive shifts; amazing spread of power from 4000 rpm to 9000 rpm."
Best handling trait is traction under power."

Turn 11: "Cuts in sharply and accurately. Rear well-behaved, stays put. Overachiever on street tires."

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