By Larry E. Hall

How does 41 city mpg/36 highway sound for a midsize luxury sedan that provides a extended checklist of interior bells and whistles? If that grabbed your consideration, then test drive the 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid. Or, if you can wait until late fall, an all-new 2013 model ups the fuel economy numbers to an expected 47 city/44 highway.

But let’s get back to the 2012 model, a automobile that gets far better fuel financial system than anything else in its class.

Final year, Ford officials had been quoted as saying it would like as a lot as 25 percent of its global fleet to be powered by motors and batteries by 2020. The business expects 75 % of individuals autos to be standard hybrids – and the rest built up of pure electrical automobiles or plug-in hybrids.

The 2012 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is a great example of how Ford is scaling up to attain its target—by spreading its greatest electric-drive technology across frequent platforms. Instead of dreaming up a brand new purpose-constructed fuel-electric car for its Lincoln luxury nameplate, Ford migrated the technological innovation from its award-winning Ford Fusion Hybrid to the MKZ.

Following in Tracks of Ford Fusion Hybrid

With the hybrid powertrain for the Fusion mid-size sedan in the barn, it was a no brainer to extend it to the Lincoln MKZ. Below the hood is Ford’s 2nd-generation Hybrid Powersplit drivetrain. Cutting via the engineering-speak, this indicates a 156 horsepower, two.five-liter lean-burning, Atkinson cycle gasoline engine sharing motivational duties with a 106 horsepower AC electrical motor. A planetary gear set transmits the blended output to an electronically controlled constantly variable transmission (CVT) that directs the power to the front wheels.

Variations in the torque curves of the gasoline engine and electrical motor means that the system’s output is 191 hp, a a lot more than ample sum of energy for a midsize sedan. Ford does not publish torque numbers for the electric motor, but the 4-cylinder engine produces 136 pounds-feet.

As a parallel, or “full,” hybrid program, the MKZ Hybrid is capable to operate below pure-electric energy only, gasoline power only, or a mixture of the two. The program makes all the selections: when to engage motor, engine, or the two. When the 275-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery pack is entirely charged, the automobile can operate as an electric car (EV) up to 47 mph for close to two miles just before the fuel engine kicks in. And, as opposed to other hybrid autos, you do not have to drive like Miss Daisy to reach the electric top rated speed.

The judgment of the MKZ’s hybrid powertrain by automobile critics, not unexpectedly, parallels the Ford Fusion Hybrid. Automobile and Driver stated, “When we acknowledged the Fusion hybrid as a 10Best winner in 2010, we noted that ‘you can drive it for exciting (a hybrid 1st) or for mileage — which is also enjoyable. “This applies verbatim to the MKZ hybrid.” As for the transition from electrical motor to gasoline engine, CNET mentioned it “was virtually imperceptible.”

As for ride and dealing with, reviewers have been primarily good. Motor Trend had this to say: “Off-center steering motions are Lexus-liquidy the ride’s absorbency suggests the sponges in the suspension are from Neiman Marcus and the brake pedal says this is a luxury vehicle being stopped with almost no regen-braking sensation.” And Well-known Mechanics’ reviewer stated, “As Lincolns go, the MKZ has always been a fairly flat-cornering machine, and the hybrid edition of the sedan is no different.”

Exterior and Interior

The MKZ was restyled for 2010 and continues with no alterations for the 2012 model year. The only thing that distinguishes the hybrid from the gasoline MKZ is small hybrid badges on the front doors and trunk lid. Up front is a trademark Lincoln bold waterfall grille that mimics the Lincoln MKS, which was in turn inspired by the styling of the Lincoln MKR idea. With the more rounded sheetmetal up front, the grille blends effectively with the unchanged main bodywork. In back, wide, low taillights – an additional prolonged-standing styling trademark – are separated by a bit of sheetmetal and ornamented with the Lincoln logo, mirroring the front styling.
Total, the auto is sensibly proportioned with just the correct quantity of chrome accents. Designers extra it like a lady adds pearls to a black dress.

The cabin follows the Fusion Hybrid’s layout, and while it is more upscale, reviewers have panned the style, which they say is behind the benchmarks set by other luxury class automakers. “Unfortunately, even though the mechanicals in the MKZ Hybrid are as solid as can be,” says Common Mechanics, “the interior falls far short of what we’ve come to expect from Ford’s designers.”

That stated, the cabin can be described as business-class luxury, conveying the attributes of simplicity. Leather, climate managed seating is exceptional and the 10-way energy driver’s seat teams up with the completely adjustable steering column to generate an excellent driving place for people of all statures.

The list of attributes obtainable with Lincoln MKZ Hybrid is substantial: SYNC (Ford’s voice-activated communications and entertainment program) adaptive HID headlamps 10-way power seats heated and cooled front seats reverse sensing program keyless entry capless fuel-filler a suite of safety attributes which includes dual-stage front air bags parental essential systems to limit speed and audio volume for teens and integrated spotter mirrors.

Let’s not overlook the wood trim utilizing eco-friendly veneers from “well-managed forests” and the standard “Bridge of Weir” leather seats, which show off the character of the grain and use a chromium-cost-free tanning method.

Like the Fusion Hybrid, the Lincoln attributes what Ford calls the SmartGauge. It helps the driver to discover certain strategies to obtain higher effectiveness. The dashboard interface offers feedback to the driver—both visual and sound. In other words, it really talks to you. The gauge cluster is comprised of dual hi-resolution LCD screens to display instantaneous mileage and fuel economic system history—as well as essential information including battery charge, engine output and accessory energy consumption.

The Lincoln version enhances the animation of a vine of leaves that grows as the driver(s) becomes more efficient over time by adding white apple blossoms. When the entire bouquet of 5 blossoms is proven, the driver has saved about 200 gallons of gas, or 4000 pounds of CO2, according to Lincoln. To avert sensory overload, the technique allows the driver to decide how much information to see, and what can be ignored.

Kiss Hybrid Premium Very good-bye

When launched in the fall of 2010 as a 2011 model, Lincoln did some thing no other automobile company had carried out, priced the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid the same as the gasoline-powered model. That carries above for the 2012 edition and purchasers can choose both for the commencing cost of $ 34,755.

The constant criticism levied against hybrids is their more cost compared to comparable typical autos. Hybrid critics acknowledge that gas-electric cars preserve fuel, but they say the more expense – in some situations, 1000′s of dollars more—means that buyers will not recoup the premium during their ownership period. That argument is erased if the hybrid edition is offered at the exact same price as the standard gas-powered car—or if the premium is only a couple hundred dollars. The hybrid premium argument is similarly erased if a well-known high-volume automobile is only supplied as a hybrid.

For consumers thinking about a Lincoln MKZ, the hybrid model tends to make for an effortless option. The only compelling purpose to decide on the gasoline MKZ above the hybrid, it would look, is if you drive on snowy or icy roads and choose the optional all-wheel drive.

The MKZ Hybrid faces only 1 midsize luxury hybrid competitor: the Lexus HS 250h. Although each are four-door sedans, the MKZ provides significantly far more interior room, delivers much better fuel economic system – plus six mpg city, plus 2 mpg highway – and costs $ two,275 much less than the Lexus. Motor Trend put it this way, “The primary bogey for the MKZ Hybrid is the Lexus HS 250h, and Lincoln has come out with guns blazing, pushing the Lincoln’s better fuel economic climate, and the simple fact that it has far more regular luxury, technologies and safety attributes than the Lexus.”

If you are not dead set on acquiring luxury, take a search the MKZ’s blue jeans brother, the Ford Fusion Hybrid. Although the Lincoln’s interior is more refined, they each have the same hybrid powertrain that delivers equal fuel economic climate. The big difference amongst the two? The Fusion Hybrid is $ 6,000 much less.

The MKZ helps make a great impression, graced as it is with excellent manners, large-tech galore and fashionably outfitted with the top-of-the-line leather and wood. Add 41 mpg in the city and that earns it a place on your shopping list if you’re searching for fantastic hybrid engineering in a luxury package deal.

Ought to You Wait For The 2013 MKZ Hybrid?

Wait for the 2013 MKZ Hybrid if you want the advances in fuel economic system, high-tech gear and security attributes that accompany an all-new design. Waiting will also indicate the car’s styling will look present for numerous many years and it will be worth more at resale than the outgoing 2012 model. But factor in the robust likelihood that the 2013 MKZ Hybrid will cost a lot more than the 2012 model and the chance the hybrid edition may be priced at a higher price tag than the new gasoline model.

If you really don’t location a premium on the newest styling or technologies get, the 2012 MKZ Hybrid, it will serve you well. Plus, you can preserve income with the expected manufacturer incentives and dealer discounts as inventories of the 2012 model are cleared out to make way for the 2013 MKZ Hybrid.

Costs are Producer Advised Retail Cost (MSRP) at time of publication and do not incorporate destination costs, taxes or licensing.

HybridCars.com

General Motors has just released its Super Bowl XLVI commercial for the Chevrolet Volt for the massive game on Sunday.

Titled ‘Aliens’, the 30-second spot reveals the curiosity about the Volt and its electrical powertrain extends to extraterrestrial beings from galaxies far, far away.

Click right here for a lot more news on the Chevrolet Volt.

Refresher: The 2012 Chevrolet Volt is powered by 16-kWh, ‘T’-shaped lithium-ion battery that powers the electrical drive unit, which allows it to drive 40 miles on battery energy alone. The technique puts out 149-hp and a maximum torque of 273 lb-ft, permitting the Volt to go from -60 mph in about 9 seconds, hitting a best speed of 100 mph. The battery can be re-charged by plugging into a household outlet and takes 4 hours to recharge on 240 volts, and about 10-12 hrs on a common 120-volt outlet. The Chevrolet Volt also carries an 84-hp one.4 4-clyinder engine that allows the five-door, FWD sedan to travel extra miles whilst averaging a fuel-economy of 50 mpg. A totally charged battery and complete tank of fuel will let the Volt to travel 379   miles. The 2012 Chevrolet Volt gets an EPA estimated 93 miles per ’gallon-equivalent’ when driving underneath electric power only, 37 mpg when in gasoline mode and over the lengthy phrase it is estimated to get 60 miles per gallon in combined gasoline-powered and electrical-powered driving. Rates for the 2012 Chevrolet Volt start off at $ 39,995 but with a full federal earnings tax credit (which variety from $ to $ 7,500), the Volt can expense a total of $ 32,495.

egmCarTech

Revenue of the Chevrolet Volt dropped sharply in January with GM only promoting 603 units. Blame for the drop in sales goes to the damaging publicity the Volt has received from a government safety investigation.

January 2012 turned out to be the worst month for the Volt considering that August, exactly where it was only delivered to 302 clients. During the fourth quarter of 2011, GM averaged month-to-month sales of one,259 units.

Verify out more news on the Chevrolet Volt.

GM executives say that they are unable to gauge the demand for the Chevrolet Volt until finally Might or June due to the availability staying tight and some dealers still receiving their 1st batch.

In 2011, a complete of 7,671 Volts had been sold, way brief of GM’s 10,000 goal.

Refresher: The 2012 Chevrolet Volt is powered by 16-kWh, ‘T’-shaped lithium-ion battery that powers the electric drive unit, which permits it to drive 40 miles on battery power alone. The method puts out 149-hp and a optimum torque of 273 lb-ft, making it possible for the Volt to go from -60 mph in about 9 seconds, hitting a top speed of a hundred mph. The battery can be re-charged by plugging into a home outlet and takes four hours to recharge on 240 volts, and about 10-12 hrs on a standard 120-volt outlet. The Chevrolet Volt also carries an 84-hp one.four 4-clyinder engine that enables the 5-door, FWD sedan to travel additional miles while averaging a fuel-economy of 50 mpg. A fully charged battery and full tank of gasoline will enable the Volt to travel 379   miles. The 2012 Chevrolet Volt gets an EPA estimated 93 miles per ’gallon-equivalent’ when driving underneath electrical energy only, 37 mpg when in gasoline mode and more than the extended expression it is estimated to get 60 miles per gallon in combined gasoline-powered and electric-powered driving. Charges for the 2012 Chevrolet Volt begin at $ 39,995 but with a complete federal revenue tax credit (which array from $ to $ 7,500), the Volt can cost a complete of $ 32,495.

Supply: AutoNews

egmCarTech

If the BMW three-series is the quintessential sports sedan, then the M3 is the quintessential sports activities auto in disguise. Ever because the launch of the first M3 in 1986, this BMW has enjoyed a fiercely loyal following of fans, as properly as a distinguished racing profession. It is the auto that represents the essence of what BMWs must be.

The M3’s concept was taken to an extreme with the outgoing model BMW stuffed a 414-hp, four.-liter V-eight beneath its hood, a monster engine derived from the former M5′s five.-liter V-10. But the preceding 3er is creating way for the all-new F30 3-series, and we’re bracing ourselves for the next iteration of this beloved automobile.

BMW sources tell us it will be an additional two years before the up coming M3 in fact hits the market place, and that has to do with the existence cycles of the various three-series entire body styles. There will be another M3 coupe and an M3 convertible with a retractable difficult top, the two of which will be launched at the identical time as the sedan. Because the F30 coupe and convertible haven’t however been announced, we’ll have to wait for all 3.

BMW is pushing for better fuel economy across its lineup, and the next M3 will be no exception. The thirsty V-8 will make way for yet another inline-six, and, like all other BMW vehicles, it will be turbocharged. But BMW is strongly thinking about tri-turbo technologies, which need to help to reduce turbo lag and bring energy output to a new level. (BMW just announced a new efficiency diesel inline-six that utilizes a trio of turbochargers.) Details are scarce on the up coming M3′s engine, and the program is still in flux, but we count on anything among 450 and 500 hp. There will be two transmissions available, both sending power to the rear wheels: a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch. The manual may possibly be U.S.-only, as is the case with the latest M5’s three-pedal setup enthusiasts right here stubbornly refuse to let the automobile have all the entertaining. Great on us.

Like the rest of the vehicles on the new F30 platform, the M3 will be slightly bigger than the E90-platform automobile it replaces. You the moment once again will be able to distinguish the M3 from the regular three-series by its wider front and rear track, excess fat rubber, and attendant physique modifications. The front and rear fenders probably will be exclusive to the M3, but our photography suggests that the power bulge on the front hood may possibly go away—or, as opposed to with this car’s predecessor, is not a necessity to property the powerplant, permitting these prototypes to go with out it for the time becoming. We assume liberal use of carbon-fiber parts the two to underscore the M3′s racing pretensions and BMW’s claim to technological leadership. Carbon fiber also will aid to bring down the new three-series’ slight weight acquire.

The following M3 will compete head-on with upcoming designs like the Audi RS4 and the Cadillac ATS-V, as effectively as the Lexus IS F and the Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG. Some may well lament the disappearance of the naturally aspirated V-8. But you nevertheless have a chance to get one: Even though the E90 M3 sedan is background, the coupe and the cabriolet will continue to be in production for one more two years. If you want the next-gen M3, even so, start saving up at least $ 60,000.

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Auto and Driver Blog

Whenever anyone thinks about America and the automobile industry, one of the first things that should pop-up into mind is the pickup truck: an automobile that is synonymously iconic to our culture like the small roadster is to Great Britain or the executive saloon is to Germany. And when anyone thinks of a pickup truck, the ultimate buy word in the segment would arguably be the proverbial Ford F150. That should be a given considering that the Dearborn-based manufacturer invented the automobile when they produced the “Ford Model T Runabout with a Pickup Body” in 1925. Not to mention, the F150 is indubitably one of automotive history’s most iconic automobiles, racking up some astonishing accolades such as America’s best-selling vehicle for 24-years and best-selling truck for 34.

That said, the Ford F150 can be considered the car that ‘built’ America, much like how Jeremy Clarkson showed the world that the Ford Transit had “built” Great Britain. No matter where you go, you’ll always find some generation and some sort of variant of the Ford F150 running about doing all things utilitarian. I can go on and on about the F150’s prominence, but that would be similar to me rambling on about how famous Mr. Henry Ford is himself—gee, thanks Captain Obvious.

But truth be told, I have very little personal experience with pickups for my short time on Earth. The first and last pickup truck that I had comprehensively driven in-depth was a 2002 Dodge Ram 2500 with the 5.9L Magnum V8. And even though the Ram was uncomfortable, brash and tiresome to drive—on top of abysmal fuel economy that never went north of 15 mpg—the Ram’s commanding view of the road made it interestingly fun to drive and its practicality was hard to trump, considering that the Ram helped me move back and forth between college and home. Afterwards, the last pickup I ever drove entirely prior to this review was a 2005 Ford F150 King Ranch SuperCrew, complete with the top-of-the-line 5.4L Triton V8 during my time working at a used car dealer. Other than that though, pickup trucks never really appealed to my taste for refined and fun-driving performance and luxury cars. And that was due to their sacrifice for utilitarianism in place of luxury and driving pleasure. In other words, I felt one would be socially awkward pulling up to a fancy function in a workhorse pickup truck rather than a stately executive saloon.

2012 Ford F150 EcoBoost Lariat 4×2 SuperCrew V6 Specifications:

• Style: Full-size pickup truck.
• Drive Type: RWD / 4WD.
• Seating Capacity: 5.
• Base Price: $ 39,475.
• Price As Tested: $ 45,380.
• Engine: 3.5 liter twin-turbocharged, direct-injected EcoBoost V6 – 365-hp / 420 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: 6-speed automatic.
• 0 to 60 mph: 6.1 seconds.
• Top Speed: 100 mph (electronically limited).
• Curb Weight: 5,699 lbs.
• Fuel-economy (EPA city/highway – egmCarTech Observed): 16/22 – 17/19 mpg.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

Social awkwardness aside though, over the years numerous others have proven to take Ford’s recipe for a pickup and have perfected it in their own ways, the Ram being one of them. And over those same years, manufacturers, including Ford themselves, have evolved the pickup to be not only a workhorse automobile, but one of the most versatile vehicles money can buy. In order to continue keeping up with the times of fuel economy-conscious buyers and strict CAFE regulations, Ford had decided to gamble with a new engine top-of-the-line option for the 2011 F150: a twin-turbocharged 3.5L EcoBoost V6. It’s a boosted mill that Ford hopes will help improve the brand’s CAFE rating and sway the traditionalists from the typical pickup powerplant, so that the gasoline-guzzling V8 can slowly fade away into the pages of history (Oh dear God please no), or at least be the second choice. So, how does it fare and does it have what it takes to meet Ford’s and the buyers’ expectations?

Exterior:

There’s really not much to discuss when talking about the aesthetic aspects of pickups. Their designs are pretty straightforward. Though what differs Ford’s F150 from the more chiseled-down looks of GM’s GMT900 pickups and the sleek, refined muscle of the Dodge Ram is the F150’s Tonka Truck Toy-like looks. But it’s not outrageously childish or terribly offensive. In fact, I like the way the F150 looks. It comes off as thoroughly American, rugged and masculine—as if it could take on anything you can throw at it. It has every visual trait a real pickup should have. And who’s to argue? And what makes me appreciate the F150 even more is that its looks are also civil enough that once you were done with your dirty work, you could just take a hose and some suds to it and drive it through town like a boss. In other words, I wouldn’t feel ashamed to pull up in a clean, modern F150—like the one we had—at a fancy function. I couldn’t exactly say the same thing with the Ford F150 from several decades ago and earlier. And I definitely couldn’t say that about the 2002 Dodge Ram I drove several years ago.

Interior:

The same Tonka-like characteristics can be found inside the F150 as well. Where as the F150s of yesteryear often had flat, boring and monotone insides, the F150 of today (and ever since the 11^th generation F150 from 2004 such as that 2005 King Ranch I aforementioned) dropped the straight-workhorse looks for some style, without any sacrifice or deviation from the F150’s tough, rugged utilitarian roots. And this latest F150 just takes it even a step further. So if you were like me, with the little experience I have with pickups, you’d be surprised to find a very comforting ambiance when compared to the F150s of the 1990s and prior. The responses elicited from me when I first stepped into the F150 were: “wow, this is pretty darn nice,” and “I’m really impressed.” Ford’s use of different colored materials is extraordinarily well executed making you think that you’re in a more civilized Expedition rather than an F150—and it’s definitely an exponential upgrade from that brash Ram. I simply love it.

Our tester was of the Lariat spec, which is one of the most commonly optioned trimlines of the F150. It surely isn’t the most luxurious model, nor is it the cheapest as Ford pins the Lariat just in the middle of the lineup, below (and in order from least luxurious and expensive to most luxurious and expensive) FX4, SVT Raptor, King Ranch, Platinum and Harley-Davidson Editions and above the base XL, STX, XLT and FX2. Ours was fully optioned up the wazoo complete with Microsoft/Ford’s collaboration called SYNC, their tow package, leather-trimmed 10-way heated and cooled seats with memory function—which also means the transmission shifter changes from a column stalk to a center console-mounted selector. All of the ergonomics were simple and easy to use. Admittedly, a lot of the equipment bespoke to pickups that help its owners tow and haul stuff did throw me off a bit. But I’m sure that’s purely from my lack of experience. Either way, Ford offers a lot of kit and the seats were wonderfully supportive and comfortable. Additionally, our F150 was optioned out with the 6.5-foot bed and the SuperCrew layout, which means four full doors and a rear bench to haul not just your friends or family, but their junk as well.

Performance:

Driving the F150 is where the real news is. For the first time ever, Ford’s iconic workhorse gets their latest twin-turbocharged, direct-injected 3.5L EcoBoost V6, which is the same engine that received some honorable mention and placement in cars like the current Taurus SHO and the Ford Flex EcoBoost. And even though the F150 EcoBoost V6 produces the same 365 horses as the Taurus SHO, the F150’s EcoBoost V6 produces 70 more lb-ft of twist for a whopping total of 420 lb-ft that’s best-in-class—and 90% of that is fully and readily available at 1700rpm, all the way through the rev range to 5000rpm. Mated to Ford’s SelectShift six-speed automatic, mashing the pedal from a standstill in the F150 EcoBoost would yield a 0-60 time of roughly 6.5 seconds, which is not shabby at all. In fact, during our week long test, Editor-In-Chief Omar Rana and I often found ourselves with our windows down in between quick stoplight drags with owners of older pickups and even some quick car drivers, all wondering what the hell just put them in the dust. And because that power is so readily available from the well-tuned and adjusted six-speed, highway cruising and overtaking is a breeze. Turbo lag was virtually nonexistent and traditional pickup purists would feel right at home with the EcoBoost V6. The only thing that would tell them that the F150 EcoBoost has two less cylinders would be the options list and the exhaust note, which was the sound of a muffled yet, meaty V6 with a slight hiss from the snails versus a throaty, rumbling V8. But for those who are truly committed to the seductive rumble of Ford’s V8 still have a choice to opt for their all-new 5.0L V8 mill—the same that debuted in the current Mustang 5.0—and 6.2L Boss V8, which is in the SVT Raptor. The only sacrifice with the V8s is for those seeking practicality in terms of tow capacity: the 3.5L V6 EcoBoost has the highest ratings out of all the other engine options.

Considering the F150 is no performance automobile, I completely relieved myself from any expectations of handling with the F150. But such a notion wasn’t exactly necessary because simply put, the F150 EcoBoost is truly wonderful to drive for being a full-size pickup. Sure, the handling is completely nonexistent when compared to something with a unibody and finely tuned suspension. But the F150, much like many other pickup trucks from the competitors, has thoroughly proven that utilitarian automobiles don’t have to be woeful to drive like they used to be. When compared to my 2002 Dodge Ram experience, the F150 felt like the Mercedes-Benz of pickup trucks. Refined, comfortable and composed describe the F150 EcoBoost’s ride and handling. The same could be said for the 2005 King Range Edition I drove too a while back. Highway speeds were quiet, relaxing and a complete dawdle making me think that it would be the perfect truck to take on a cross-country adventure. The steering for the entire F150 lineup except for the 6.2L Boss V8-equipped models was converted from the typical lifeless hydraulic setup to a more efficient electronically assisted power steering system. When comparing the two, the electronic system offered nothing in the way of feel next to the hydraulic setup I experienced in the 2005 King Ranch F150, but on the upside, the electric tiller was effortless with solid on-center feel, making any kind of maneuvering a breeze. Should you find yourself approaching a corner too fast, the F150 would respond with enough composure surprise to make you forget about the F150’s on-paper body-on-frame and solid-rear axle setup.

Unfortunately, for the time that we had the F150 EcoBoost V6, we weren’t able to put it in a situation to truly test the F150’s ability to haul or tow something. The closest we got though was a quick trip up into North Jersey to pickup a new couch for my apartment. And this trip led us to come up with a thing or two we could point out. Firstly, our fuel economy hovered around an average of 17-19 mpg, which is very respectable for a pickup truck and understandable when compared to the EPA’s rating of 16 mpg’s city and 22 highway. Though, we didn’t think it was much of an improvement over the alternative and more traditional engine, Ford’s new 5.0L V8, rated at 15 mpg’s city and 21 highway and even the 6.2L V8. That said, we were a little perplexed by the fact that Ford chose to opt for a traditional gasoline engine when diesel technologies are so readily available. Altogether, it raises a question for the brand itself too. Are they still betting on gasoline engines when 2/3rds of the world has been benefiting from the higher fuel efficiency of diesel-powered automobiles? Even on home turf, those who are well informed of the pickup market know that a Dodge Ram with a Cummins or a GM pickup with a Duramax, or even the Ford with a PowerStroke will yield far better fuel economy without a sacrifice in capability. Either way, I think “Big Oil” is still to blame. But that’s a whole ‘nother can o’worms.

Overall:

Altogether, I walk away from the F150 EcoBoost in complete awe as to how pickups have evolved over time. Forgetting my lack of experience aside, as a car guy, stepping into an F150 wasn’t overwhelming or intimidating whatsoever. The F150 was a breeze to get used to, especially for someone with my background…or lack thereof. In all, I see the F150 as a Swiss army knife, but one with a snakeskin holster that’s stylish and practical and is sure to elicit some conversation from others and you can take it anywhere without being terribly uncivil. And for that, I can now appreciate the appeal of pickup trucks and I’m sure those venturing into the market for the first time will too. You can haul your friends/family plus their junk and nearly go anywhere all while in good comfort and style of the mighty Ford F150. In other words, where as enthusiasts come to appreciate cars for their sense of value rather than how superior their performance and drive is, enthusiasts can appreciate the F150 for its gung-ho and do-nearly-anything capabilities. And even for those who are looking to buy the F150 for its utility, they are definitely going to feel right at home. Sure, the fuel economy may not meet the promises of exponentially better fuel economy like Ford is pitching. But Ford has apparently tested the 3.5L EcoBoost V6 to extreme ends so the V6 is sure to be as durable and reliable as the V8 it hopes to replace. Not to mention, those who are considering or have experience with pickups are used to getting cruddy fuel economy anyway. Let’s just hope that Ford’s push for the EcoBoost engines in this F150 and its other cars isn’t a harbinger of things to come, like the potential death of the V8. But simply put, the F150 is A+ all the way.

All Photos Copyright © Omar Rana - egmCarTech.

- By: Chris Chin

egmCarTech

The Subaru XV is obtaining even much more near to assuming the place of one particular of the most value-for-funds crossovers in the planet. The office in the UK has released a list of specifications, trimmings and charges with the lowest 1 beginning at £21,295 for the one.6i S model (the base a single).

The XV boasts a considerable volume of occupant safety (especially for children) whilst remaining stylish and practical without an effort. Two extremely crucial highlights give it away that it is a Subaru: A Boxer engine and a Symmetrical AWD. In other words we have a excellent centre of gravity and a brain that ensures the greatest attainable grip below a selection of circumstances.

Energy comes from three Euro five power plants – 1.6 and 2.-litre petrol, and two.-litre diesel.  The one.six-litre and two.-litre petrol engines develop 114ps and 150ps respectively, although the 2.-litre diesel generates 147ps and 350Nm. All people figures can go following that trough a six-speed manual or a CVT automated gearbox, dependent on consumer choice

Null to sixty is carried out in 9.3 seconds with the 2. diesel. It gets even a lot more extraordinary when we know that it gives a class-major fuel economy of 50.4mpg on the combined cycle and  emits 146g/km of CO2. The petrol units also go easy on the precious liquid as they advantage from Subaru’s Auto Start off Halt System for non-diesels. Seamless cut out/kick off assured.

The capabilities which are included in the entry model, the S, are just thoughts boggling -  ABS, traction control, Subaru Car Dynamics Manage (SVDC), front, side, curtain and knee airbags, 17-inch alloy wheels, daytime LED operating lights and automatic air conditioning as regular. To step it up a notch, the SE adds cruise manage, rear-view digital camera, Bluetooth functionality and USB/iPod connectivity to all the standard equipment while the SE Lux leather seats and satellite navigation, a start button, sunroof and keyless entry.

Source: Subaru

Automobiles Evaluation

Mini has just released U.S. pricing for its new two-seater Roadster model that will be accessible in three flavors.

The Cooper Roadster is priced at $ 24,350 and is powered by a 121HP 1.six-liter inline four that enables it to hit 60mph in 8.7 seconds and leading out at 124mph, while returning 30mpg combined.

Up coming up is the Cooper S Roadster with an MSRP of $ 27,350 that is outfitted with a 181HP 1.six-liter turbo. It accelerates from zero to 60mph in 6.7 seconds and reaches a leading speed of 141mph, although delivering a combined fuel financial system of 30mpg.

Ultimately, the John Cooper Functions Roadster is the most high-priced at $ 34,500 but also the fastest thanks to its 2018HP 1.6-liter turbo engine that propels it to 60mph in 6.three seconds and on to a optimum speed of 147mph. It has a mixed fuel economy of 28mpg.

All the over MSRPs do not incorporate a $ 700 (*) destination and dealing with charge.

Interestingly, the two-seater Roadster is $ 600 less costly than the equivalent versions of the four-seater Mini Convertible.

Nevertheless, roadster lovers may possibly also want to take a appear at the rear-wheel drive Mazda MX-5 that comes with a 167HP two.-liter unit and begins from $ 23,470 for the soft top rated model and $ 27,540 for the retractable hardtop variant.

MINI ROADSTER CATALOGUE

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As it’s not a hybrid, the MINI Roadster might not look like a vehicle that shoppers for choice power autos would fancy. This was also mentioned about the normal MINI Cooper, yet the Cooper’s most cross-shopped auto is none other than the Toyota Prius. Could the Roadster carry on this trend?

These who would consider a MINI vs. a Prius are most likely much less interested in the remarkable fuel economy of the Prius (although it’s certainly a element) and more impressed by the car’s appear and the picture it portrays. These “lifestyle buyers” are exactly the sort of shopper that would also consider buying a MINI Roadster.

Fuel financial system numbers have yet to be released for the Roadster, but if they’re something like the Coupe, assume digits in the high 30s on the highway – not in Prius territory, but again, this unlikely competitor is not only about fuel efficiency.

Enthusiasm

In base form the Roadster is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine producing 121 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 pound-feet of torque at 4250 rpm. It gets a -60 time of eight.7 seconds, but in genuine MINI style will probably experience quicker. Despite some added weight, surprisingly, acceleration is enhanced over the convertible Cooper model, due in part to sportier gearing.

As pointed out, no fuel economic climate numbers are nevertheless readily available, even though the mechanically equivalent Coupe gets 29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway with the manual transmission or 28/36 for the six-speed automated – projected to be the a lot more well-known option.

Individuals searching for much more energy (at the expense of fuel financial system) can go with the Cooper S Roadster that is equipped with a turbocharged one.6-liter four-cylinder creating 177 horsepower and 192 pound-feet of torque in an overboost mode. Fuel economy will likely ring in at around 26/34 mpg. Then there is the JCW with even much more thrust at 208 hp, but with what is expected to be a 25/33 mpg rating.

Although not exactly hybrid numbers, MINI has usually created fuel economic climate a priority and search for that to carry on into the long term with rumors of a new and considerably more fuel productive three-cylinder powerplant to be rolled out across the brand’s lineup in the near future.

Intended For Fun

Sporting the identical cute but sophisticated design cues as the rest of the MINI lineup, the Roadster is notably less testosterone infused than the Coupe. Gone is the backwards baseball cap roof in favor of a classical cloth best. In an work to preserve weight down, the soft-top layout is manually operated, not electronic. Thankfully, it’s light and a breeze to use.

As a genuine two-seat roadster and not a convertible, this car was function constructed to have its leading down and appears equally great rain or shine. A much more dynamic aero kit on the John Cooper Works performance model – not to mention some big 17-inch wheels and tires (optional on Cooper S) – genuinely can make the Roadster stand out. You will have to pay big bucks for that option however, and with 208 hp on tap, as mentioned, appear for fuel economy somewhere all around to 25/33 mpg.

Compared to the tough-top rated, the Coupe and Roadster get a much more steeply raked windscreen, adding design and enhancing the car’s aerodynamics, even though trendy chrome rollover bars add protection, not to mention safety.

Other design and style highlights include the rear spoiler, which pops up at speeds above 50 mph and lowers once more at speeds beneath 37 mph. Do not require the added downforce (and drag) at speed, or want to show off with it up at reduced speed? No issue, the spoiler can be raised or lowered at the push of a button as effectively.

Interior Originality

The cabin is practically identical to the rest of the MINI lineup, with its special, although frequently ergonomically irritating, toggle switches.

As with other contemporary MINIs, the Connected telematics system is readily available as an selection. Launched a handful of many years back on the challenging leading, it’s proved to be a trend-setter, updating the car’s method by updating the app that controls it. Automakers like Toyota, Chevy and Hyundai are now following a similar path, acknowledging that connectivity technological innovation is shifting at a pace effectively beyond the solution cycles of a vehicle. By syncing your sensible mobile phone (verify to see which apply), with the MINI Linked App downloaded to it, the automobile can just pull up other associated apps, like the MOG music service which offers entry to twelve million songs. The MINI Connected method does price $ 750 (and MOG is $ 9.99 a month), but its prospective is far reaching with new apps becoming formulated all the time.

1 entertaining feature borrowed from the rest of the MINI Convertible array is an Openometer, which documents the time invested behind the wheel with the top down.

Cargo space is far from extensive, but not terrible both. At eight.five cubic feet, it’s slightly smaller sized than the Coupe, but greater than the traditional MINIs. It is important to note that the area provided is entirely separate from the convertible top rated and so the total storage spot volume is retained even with the leading down. Including a lot more functionality is a pass-via into the cabin to support fit greater objects.

The Bottom Line

Pricing for the Roadster is set at a premium more than its Coupe counterpart, commencing at $ 25,050 for the base Cooper and rising to $ 28,050 for the Cooper S. People on the hunt for overall performance as a priority can select the John Cooper Performs model for a lofty $ 35,200.

A purely economical or environmental indicates of transportation? Hardly. But a single that delivers rather surprising fuel financial system with plenty of top rated-down fun. You bet!

Rates are Manufacture Suggested Retail Cost (MSRP) at time of writing and do not include location charges, taxes or licensing..

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Tags: Honda, Honda Crosstour, pricing |

Just moments ago, Infiniti dropped an email into our inbox pointing us to a video on YouTube titled “What is the fastest accelerating full hybrid?” The short clip exhibits a driver dressed like The Stig getting into a Porsche Panamera S Hybrid and obtaining ready to race the sports activities saloon in the desert.

Infiniti’s email also notes, “Check out out this teaser video and allow us know wherever you assume it’s going…. Really don’t miss the benefits, coming January 23rd, 2012“.

Given that we find it challenging to believe that the Japanese automaker would develop a promotional campaign for Porsche and its new Panamera Hybrid we think it is all about displaying the prospective of the also new M Hybrid (named M35h in particular markets).

And far more importantly, let us not overlook that final September, the M Hybrid created it into the Guinness book of globe records as the “Fastest Accelerating Total Hybrid” following it finished the quarter mile run in 13.9031 seconds with a passing speed of more than 160 km/h (100 mph).

The query is, will Infiniti engage in all out bragging war displaying the M Hybrid and Porsche Panamera Hybrid racing side-by-side or will it wimp out and be content with just stating the numbers? Guess we’ll have to wait until Monday to find out.

For the record, the U.S. specification Infiniti M Hybrid backlinks a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline engine with 302HP to a 50kW (67HP) electric motor and a lithium-ion battery pack, which delivers a combined output of 360 horsepower. Both the gasoline V6 and electric motor provide their energy to the rear wheels by way of a 7-speed automated transmission.

Infiniti says that the M Hybrid completes the -60mph sprint in “much less than six seconds”. In Europe, the Japanese company has released a -62mph (100km/h) time of 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy figures are estimated at 32 mpg highway, 27 mpg city and 29 mpg mixed.

On the other side of the ring, we have the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid featuring a 333HP 3.-liter supercharged V6 linked to a 47HP (34 kW) electric motor for a combined technique output of 380HP.

According to Porsche, the Panamera S Hybrid goes from zero to 60mph (96km/h) in five.seven seconds en route to a top speed of 167mph (269km/h), although delivering EPA estimates of 22 mpg city and 30mpg highway.

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