Friday, January 31, 2014

THE 2014 RAM 1500 CUSTOMIZABLE TRUCK

Ram Trucks (formally known as the Ram Truck Division) is a United States-based brand of light to mid-weight pickup trucks established in 2009 as a division of Chrysler Group LLC, a consolidated subsidiary of Italian multinational automaker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV. It was formerly known as the Dodge Truck Division.

Ram Trucks was established as a division of Chrysler in 2009, as a spinoff from Dodge, using the name of the popular Dodge Ram line of pickups that is now sold under the Ram banner. According to Chrysler, the Ram brand will concentrate on "real truck customers," rather than casual truck buyers who buy trucks for image or style.

The Ram brand was created following Chrysler's acquisition by Italian automaker Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV, and the plans called for Dodge switching to an exclusively car-based lineup with all pickup and future heavy-duty trucks by Chrysler being sold under the Ram brand. This was to start in the 2010 calendar year. There is also a possibility of adopting the Fiat Ducato commercial van which became the Ram Promaster to fill the gap of the Sprinter which Daimler ended production in 2008. The goal was to increase truck sales "from today's 280,000 to 415,000 by 2014"

Executives at Chrysler have stated their intention to compete in the semi-trailer truck category with Ram, a possibility that is aided by Fiat's ownership of Iveco and an already available network of Dodge dealers. Even though the Ram trucks are marketed separately from Dodge cars, Former Ram Division President Fred Diaz stated, "Ram trucks will always and forever be Dodges. Ram will always have the Dodge emblem inside and outside and they will be vinned as a Dodge. We need to continue to market as Ram so Dodge can have a different brand identity: hip, cool, young, energetic. That will not fit the campaign for truck buyers. The two should have distinct themes."

The Ram brand logo features the head of a , formerly the logo used by Dodge.
Trucks. Also note that from 1927 to 1928, all trucks built by Dodge were actually sold under the Graham name, as that company held the marketing rights at that time.


A Look at the RAM 1500 CUSTIMIZABLE TRUCK:

Innovative
Active Air™ Grille Shutters,,..
Equipped with refined aerodynamic features and plenty of available upgrades, the Ram 1500 is one of our most customizable trucks. With options like our Ram Box® Cargo Management System, available dual exhaust, available wheel-to-wheel sidesteps and available Automatic High Beam Control Intelligent Headlamps, the 2014 Ram 1500 proves that attention to the little things can make a big difference.

A key component of our evolved aerodynamics technology, standard Active Air™ Grille Shutters open to cool the engine when necessary. At highway speeds, the shutters automatically close to reduce drag and improve efficiency.


TONNEAU COVER

Built with efficiency in mind, the available tonneau cover facilitates movement of air over the body. This has a positive affect on airflow and helps to further reduce aerodynamic drag.


Keyless Entry
Available functions range from Keyless Enter 'n Go™ configurations to major controls, including remote vehicle start+, AllSecure™ locking system and panic button.



WHEEL-TO-WHEEL SIDESTEPS
These available sturdy, tubular wheel-to-wheel side steps help improve aerodynamics and performance efficiency. All while making access to the truck bed easier. 
Ram (1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, 5500, Heavy Duty, and Chassis Cab) (1981–present) 
1500 (ST, Tradesman, Express, SLT, Outdoorsman, Sport R/T, Lone Star, Big Horn, Sport, Laramie, Laramie Longhorn, Laramie Limited) 
Cargo Van (C/V) (Base 2011-2012, Tradesman 2013-Present, model 2011-present) 
Ram ProMaster (Van 1500, Van 2500, Van 3500, and Chassis Cab) (2013–present)

Thursday, January 30, 2014

THE 2014 CHRYSLER SRT VIPER

The SRT Viper (formerly the Dodge Viper prior to the 2013 model year) is a V10-powered sports car, manufactured by the Dodge (SRT after 2013) division of Chrysler.

The street-legal SRT Viper TA is specifically built for the performance enthusiast driver who likes to exercise their machines at the more than 150 road-race courses around North America.

Based on the SRT model, the lightest Viper in the lineup, the TA Special Edition Package builds upon the vehicle’s ultra-low center of gravity, 50/50 weight distribution and largest contact patch in the production car world. The Viper TA uses chassis parts developed specifically by the SRT chassis dynamics team to attain the most out of the race-car-like chassis and create the most confidence inspiring Viper ever. SRT developed new spring rates, dampers, sway bars and brake components, combined as a system with the Viper’s available Advanced Aerodynamics Package, to create one of the most track-capable production cars in the world. The changes keep the SRT Viper TA glued to the track, while the brake system is enhanced for improved balance and to resist thermal saturation during track work.

“The new 2014 SRT Viper TA is engineered for the serious performance enthusiast who needs a car that can be driven daily yet has mind-boggling limits on a road course that would rival many track-only cars. As one of the best handling and fastest supercars available on the market today, the TA enables our customers to take their passion for high performance driving to the next level,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO — SRT Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “The SRT engineering team set out to create a world-class supercar that has few competitors on the track or the road at any price.”

The SRT VIPER includes an all-aluminum 8.4-liter V-10 rated 640 horsepower (477 kW; 649 PS) and at 600 lb·ft (813 N·m), Tremec TR6060 six-speed manual transmission with final drive ratio 3.55, 50 percent improvement in torsional stiffness over previous model, electronic stability control, traction control, 4-channel anti-lock brake system (ABS), carbon fiber and aluminum skin with .364 drag coefficient (Cd), Pirelli P Zero Z-rated tires, 4-piston Brembo brakes with fixed-aluminum calipers with vented 355x32mm diameter rotors, 20 mm lower seating position, 7-inch full-color customizable instrument cluster, Uconnect RA3 or RA4 Access in-vehicle connectivity system with optional SiriusXM Travel Link, Harman Kardon audio system, bi-xenon projector headlamps with white light-emitting diode (LED) daytime running lamps and LED turn signals, LED taillamps with integrating stop-and-turn illumination and snakeskin texture lens, five-spoke forged aluminum "Rattler" wheel with fully polished (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes. Top speed of the SRT Viper is 206 mph (331kmh). It will be the first to feature Viper's third logo, nicknamed "Stryker".

The SRT Viper GTS includes leather upholstery, accented colors in seats, doors, center console and stitching; gun metal trim on the cluster bezel, HVAC outlets, window switch bezels, shifter base, park brake bezel and the integrated passenger grab handle on the center console; Sabelt racing seats with Kevlar and fiberglass shell, carbon-fiber hood, roof, decklid and aluminum door panels, split six-spoke forged aluminum "Venom" wheels with polished face and graphite-painted pockets (standard), fully painted Hyper Black or fully painted low-gloss black finishes.

Key high-performance equipment for the 2014 SRT Viper TA Special Edition includes:
Unique race-tuned calibration for the two-mode Bilstein DampTronic suspension system, retuned springs, shocks and road-racing derived sway bars offer firmer levels of damping and a smaller spread between modes than what is found on the Viper GTS
Lighter, carbon fiber structural X-brace replaces the standard aluminum brace under the hood and ties the four corners of the engine compartment together, contributing to the 50-percent increase in torsional rigidity and stiffness across the Viper lineup
New Brembo two-piece, 32-millimeters wide, high-thermal capacity rotors and pads that optimize heat dissipation providing improved extreme use
Advanced Aerodynamics Package includes carbon fiber front splitters and rear spoiler to boost downforce at higher speeds – up to a 700-percent increase at 150 mph 
Standard Pirelli P Zero Corsa tires are mounted on ultra-lightweight, multi-spoke Sidewinder II wheels. The brake calipers feature a black anodized finish with the Viper logo shown in TA Orange.

A carbon fiber rear applique accentuates the rear width proportions and adds another level of detail.

Under the hood of the 2014 SRT Viper TA is the handcrafted, all-aluminum 8.4-liter, mid-front V-10 overhead-valve engine. Performance ratings are 640 horsepower and 600 lb.-ft. of torque – the most torque of any naturally aspirated sports-car engine in the world.

SRT VIPER Curb weight is 3,390 pounds.
Inside, the performance driver-oriented cabin of the 2014 SRT Viper TA uses the same standard premium ballistic fabric racing seats from Sabelt, featuring a lightweight fiberglass shell created by a state-of-the-art resin transfer molding technology for mass reduction and long-term durability. Both driver and passenger seats can also accommodate a 3- or 6-point harness for racing belts.

The standard black interior combination includes unique orange accent stitching on the cloth seats, instrument panel (through the cowl), center stack, console, pull brake, shifter boot, shifter head, steering wheel and upper doors.

The Chrysler Group’s SRT (Street and Racing Technology) brand uses a successful product development formula featuring five proven hallmarks: awe-inspiring powertrains; outstanding ride, handling and capability; benchmark braking; aggressive and functional exteriors and race-inspired and high-performance interiors to remain true to its performance roots.

The 2014 SRT lineup features five vehicles that are world-class performance contenders and bring the latest in safety technologies and creature comforts. The Chrysler 300 SRT, Dodge Challenger SRT, Dodge Charger SRT and Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT join the flagship SRT Viper, which made its highly anticipated return to the high-performance sports car market in 2013.

Wednesday, January 29, 2014

THE MERCEDES BENZ E350 CONVERTIBLE

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a range of executive cars manufactured by Mercedes-Benz in various engine and body configurations. The E initially stood for Einspritzmotor (German for fuel injection engine); a new feature in volume production vehicles at the time that the E-Class first appeared, with the E as a suffix to the engine nomenclature (e.g. 230E) in the 1950s. It was not until the launch of the facelifted W124 that the E was used as a prefix (i.e., E220) and the model referred to officially as the E-Class (or E-Klasse). 

At this time all Mercedes cars used fuel injection and the company felt it was not necessary to add this as a distinguishing feature. Due to the E-Class's size and durability, the cars also frequently serve as taxis in European countries. Older models like the W123 and W124 are used in Malaysia as inter-state taxis, and the W211 is used in Singapore as a taxi. Mercedes-Benz also offers special-purpose vehicles (e.g., police or ambulance modifications) from the factory.

The Mercedes Benz E350 Convertible has a 302-hp 3.5-liter V-6 combines numerous advances to deliver more torque from less fuel, with cleaner emissions. Rapid-multispark ignition can fire up to four times per millisecond, while high-pressure Direct Injection can fine-tune fuel spray in 0.1 millisecond, reducing emissions, fuel consumption and noise. 

A lightweight diecast-alloy block, widely variable valve timing, reduced friction, and clever "on-demand" ancillary components further boost efficiency.

The industry's first 7-speed automatic is smooth, responsive and efficient. A wide range of closely spaced ratios delivers the ideal response in virtually every driving situation, for relaxed cruising, quick acceleration, and thanks to two overdrive ratios, better highway fuel efficiency. Adaptive logic adjusts the shift points to match your driving style, while shift paddles on the steering wheel let you enjoy manual-style control anytime.

Changes to the sheetmetal have been kept to a minimum; the two-doors keep the pronounced creases on their rear fenders, which were abandoned on the sedan and the wagon. And while we welcomed that change to the four-doors, we’re rather glad they’ve remained on the coupe and convertible. These aggressive-looking fenders, which Mercedes says visually emphasize the rear-wheel-drive layout, look better on the wide and low two-doors than they did on other body styles. On top of that, the fenders also set the two-door E-class apart from the less-expensive C-class coupe, its closest architectural relative in the Mercedes lineup.

Inside, the dash has been tweaked. The instrument cluster loses the two outer gauges, there is additional brightwork, and the designers added a centrally mounted analog clock, just like the one in the S-class and the face-lifted E-class sedan and wagon. The most prominent change, however, involved relocating the gear selector from the center console to the column, a decision that brings these cars in line with the sedan and the wagon but which also doesn't fit Benz’s desired sporty theme.

While its four individually tailored seats are a Mercedes-Benz cabriolet tradition, a sweeping new dash brings enhanced features and a new 3-pod gauge cluster. Fine craftsmanship is apparent even in the most modern materials like the sleek metallic trim. Hand-polished wood complements the hand-fitted and precisely double-stitched leather upholstery in a refreshing palette of colors. And while a new central analog timepiece celebrates the iconic Mercedes-Benz cabriolets of the past.


THE 2014 CHEVY CORVETTE STINGRAY

The Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car by the Chevrolet division of General Motors (GM) that has been produced in seven generations. The first model, a convertible, was designed by Harley Earl and introduced at the GM Motorama in 1953 as a concept show car.

Myron Scott is credited for naming the car after the type of small, maneuverable warship called a corvette. Originally built in Flint, Michigan and St. Louis, Missouri, the Corvette is currently manufactured in Bowling Green, Kentucky and is the official sports car of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. A Corvette has been used as the Indianapolis 500 pace car 12 times.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray is a stunning argument against the ordinary. A lighter, more rigid aluminum space frame replaces its predecessor’s steel frame. The use of carbon-fiber and carbonnano-composite structures further reduces weight to achieve optimal handling, balance and acceleration.

Every line matters Executed with beauty and proportion, every millimeter of Stingray serves its purpose. Geometric shapes transition smoothly from soft curve to crisp edge. Air flows effortlessly to reduce drag and optimize performance. Increased downforce keeps the vehicle planted, while functional exterior vents create a totally new breathing experience to reduce lift and minimize drag. The advanced ventilation systems help air flow from front to back, cooling critical components to improve vehicle handling. Stunning design, meet racing strategy.

This Corvette marks the seventh generation of an iconic sports car backed by 60 years of tradition. And the Stingray is designed to challenge every expectation.

It isn’t just a word. For the designers of the all-new 2014 Corvette Stingray, it was a mantra. Throwing off the constraints of tradition, our engineers started from scratch to build a revolutionary sports car with the performance prowess, aesthetic impact and fine craftsmanship worthy of the Stingray emblem.

Influenced by Corvette Racing technology, the 2014 Corvette Stingray was designed to be an instrument of precision — and light, stiff materials make all the difference. Aluminum and carbon fiber contribute to a 50/50 weight distribution and a world-class power-to-weight ratio for optimal handling and acceleration. The all-aluminum space frame structure is 57% stiffer and 100 lbs. lighter than the steel-frame sixth-generation Corvette.

The Stingray also makes judicious use of carbon fiber to further reduce weight and improve handling. A carbon-fiber removable roof panel, a carbon-fiber hood, as well as carbon-nano-composite body structures optimize weight balance and center of gravity.

On its journey to reinventing a legend, Stingray underwent stringent performance trials. On the track at Road Atlanta, engine temperatures were pushed to the max during repeated hot laps. On the roads of the real world, camouflaged test prototypes blurred past onlookers to ensure the same performance outcomes. And in the lab, tiltdyno testing simulated extreme driving conditions to test engine durability and resilience.

An all-new 7-speed manual transmission complements the LT1 V8 powerhouse that propels Stingray. The rear transaxle location enables a 50/50 vehicle weight balance which optimizes handling. Intelligent sensors anticipate gear selections and Match engine speed for smooth transitions during both upshifts and downshifts. Active Rev Matching enhances the driving experience by offering heel-toe shifting perfection at the touch of a switch. A 6-speed paddleshift transmission is also available and offers improved shift times in manual mode.

Employing actual Corvette Racing technology, an available Z51 Performance Package lets you achieve full track capability. Electronic Limited-Slip Differential and available Magnetic Ride Control™ promote improved stability, confidence and responsiveness. Performance Traction Management, included with available Magnetic Ride Control, features five settings of torque reduction and brake intervention to allow for more confident driving on the road or track. Stingray exclusive Michelin® Pilot® Super Sport ZP summer-only tires1 feature racetrack-born tread compounds and provide superior grip on the road. The Z51 Performance Package also includes larger front and rear wheels, larger front brake rotors, a dry-sump oil system that helps allow for cornering of more than 1 g, optional black spoiler and mirrors, plus premium shocks, springs and stabilizer bars.

“The 2014 Corvette Stingray integrates more high-performance aerodynamic features than ever before, many taken directly from Corvette Racing,” says Corvette Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter. “The front grille and radiator flow paths reduce lift, improving vehicle stability at high speeds by keeping the car pressed to the pavement. In addition, functional vents increase track capability by channeling air to the brakes, as well as heat exchangers for the transmission and differential.”

It’s already the quickest, most capable standard Corvette ever made. But Stingray has also evolved to keep you connected and entertained. Using steering wheel-mounted controls, hand gesture recognition and natural voice recognition capabilities, the Chevrolet MyLink2 system allows you to make ands-free calls, stream HD Radio® and third-party music services like Pandora® Internet Radio,3 plus access a broad range of functions including OnStar®4 and OnStar Turn-by-Turn Navigation. Other features include a premium 9-speaker Bose® sound system on 1LT, or a 10-speaker Bose® Centerpoint® surround sound

BRIGHTER THAN THE SUN The intuitive instrument cluster bears two ultra-bright 8-inch diagonal highresolution LED screens — screens so bright they can even be read with the convertible top down in direct sunlight. The motorized drop-down faceplate beneath the tablet-inspired center stack touch-screen display reveals a concealed storage area with USB port.1 And an ingenious color Head-Up Display on 2LT and 3LT complements the dual display, projecting critical data into the driver’s line of vision on the windshield. system on 2LT and 3LT, available 3-D navigation maps, SD card slot, Bluetooth® audio streaming5 and SiriusXM Satellite Radio6 with All Access Package.

CUSTO MIZE YOUR EXPERIENCE Corvette is more than a car, it’s an experience. You can make your mark with an available personalized interior plaque. Or be a part of history by taking delivery of your Stingray on the floor of the National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green, Kentucky.7 You’ll receive a VIP tour and get a quality orientation. Plus, you can even start up your new car for the first time.





























Tuesday, January 28, 2014

INFINITI Q50 HYBRID HAS GOOD POWER FUEL ECONOMY

Reviewers say the Infiniti Q50 Hybrid has good power, fuel economy and tech features, but some say the quirky steering system is a deal breakerThe 2014 Infiniti Q50 ranks 12 out of 25 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of published reviews and test drives of the Infiniti Q50, as well as reliability and safety data.

While it may not be the most athletic sport sedan, test drivers say the all-new Infiniti Q50 has a powerful engine and a refined, high-tech interior.

The 2014 Infiniti Q50 comes with a V6 engine, which reviewers say provides ample power and swift acceleration. A seven-speed automatic transmission is standard, and most test drivers say that it offers quick shifts that are smooth and refined. However, a few say that the Q50 would feel sportier if the transmission shifted even more quickly. The 2014 Q50 gets an EPA-estimated 20/29 mpg city/highway, which is about average for a V6-powered upscale midsize car. Still, four-cylinder cars like the BMW 320i and the base Audi A4 use considerably less fuel. Reviewers say that the all-new Q50 offers a comfortable ride and capable handling, though some note that it’s not quite as athletic as the BMW 3-Series or Cadillac ATS. An adaptive steering system is optional, and while it allows drivers to fine tune steering effort and the Q50’s turning radius, the bulk of test drivers say that the system feels artificial and disconnected from the road. As a result, some reviewers recommend sticking with the more conventional base steering system.

Reviewers note that the Infiniti Q50’s cabin is well-built with soft-touch surfaces and premium materials that include aluminum or wood trim. Most also approve of the Q50’s interior styling, but a handful of reviewers say that it looks a bit plain compared with the cabins of newer rivals in the class. Most auto writers say that the Q50’s front seats are spacious, supportive and comfortable, and that the Q50’s second row is roomy enough for adult passengers to be comfortable. Still, a few note that tall back-seat passengers may need a bit more headroom. The 2014 Q50 comes with a competitive set of standard features for the class, and most auto writers say that its new dual-screen infotainment system is high-tech and easy to use. A backup camera, heated front seats, Bluetooth, two USB ports, satellite and HD Radio and Infiniti’s InTouch infotainment system come standard on the 2014 Infiniti Q50. Available features include a moonroof, adaptive cruise control and a 14-speaker Bose sound system, as well as blind spot warning, forward collision warning and lane departure warning systems.

"When the Q50 debuted at last January's Detroit auto show, it looked overstyled as it rotated under the bright display lights. Now that we've driven it in real life, we rather like it." -- Automobile Magazine   
"While we were lukewarm about the adaptive steering system under performance-oriented driving conditions like twisty roads, we found it to otherwise operate smoothly without drawing too much attention to itself. Overall, the Q50's blend of brawn and beauty make it a fresh, attractively priced alternative to its competitors." -- AutoTrader  
"The 2014 Infiniti Q50 sedan is a fitting successor to the popular G37 it will eventually replace; its boundless power, athletic road manners and elegant interior raise the bar in the class." -- Cars.com  
The 2014 Infiniti Q50 Hybrid seats five and comes standard with rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional. A 3.5-liter V6 engine and an electric motor are standard, which are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Q50 Hybrid is available in two trims: Premium and Q50S Hybrid. The gas-only Infiniti Q50 is reviewed separately. The Infiniti Q50 Hybrid is an all-new model for 2014.


The all-new Infiniti Q50 Hybrid has a V6 engine and an electric motor that are mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission. Reviewers say there’s ample power and the Q50 Hybrid is fast off the line. They note that the transition between gas and electric power is seamless and most say the automatic transmission is smooth and refined. The base Q50 Hybrid gets an EPA-estimated 29/36 mpg city/highway, which is excellent for a V6-powered upscale midsize car. Many test drivers are disappointed with the Q50 Hybrid’s Direct Adaptive Steering (DAS) system, which allows drivers to fine-tune steering effort. They say the steering feels annoyingly artificial and doesn’t offer the driver much feedback from the road, so it makes the car not very engaging to drive.

Compare the Q50 Hybrid, ES Hybrid and 3-Series 

The 2014 Infiniti Q50 Hybrid seats five and comes standard with rear-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is optional. A 3.5-liter V6 engine and an electric motor are standard, which are paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The Q50 Hybrid is available in two trims: Premium and Q50S Hybrid. The gas-only Infiniti Q50 is reviewed separately. The Infiniti Q50 Hybrid is an all-new model for 2014.

The 2014 Infiniti Q50 Hybrid is ranked:

#18 in Upscale Midsize Cars
#9 in Hybrid Luxury
#11 in Hybrid Cars

ALL HYBRIDS ARE NOT CHEMISTRY EQUAL

All hybrids are not created equal. While most can boast great fuel efficiency, the Jetta Hybrid can deliver on the promise of power.2 With up to 170 hp and enough torque to leave green lights in the dust,3 not to mention a luxurious interior and tons of legroom and trunk space, the only thing the Jetta Hybrid doesn't offer is compromise.

How to cruise by the gas station.
Candy White Jetta Turbo Hybrid Side View 

10%
LESS DRAG4
48
HWY MPG2
FUEL EFFICIENCY AERO DYNAMIC SCARBON FOOTPRINT
At freeway speeds, when you're coasting, the Jetta Hybrid decouples the gas engine from the drivetrain. It's what we call "sailing" and what the planet calls "a breath of fresh air."
We took the current Jetta design and improved the aerodynamics to reduce drag by 10%4. We think everyone's forward motion should have a little less resistance.
The Jetta Hybrid strikes the perfect balance between gas and electric to help get the maximum fuel efficiency every time you drive. And it also gets 42 city mpg, so even urbanites get to enjoy extra time away from the pump.2
How to unleash a hybrid.
170
HORSEPOWER
184
lbs/ft of TORQUE
Efficient, yes.2 But step on the gas of the ultrafast-
shifting, turbocharged, 170-hp Jetta Hybrid with 184 lbs/ft
of torque and you'll see why this is the first hybrid in its class that
doesn't drive like one. The Jetta Hybrid also delivers a power boost when
you fully accelerate, creating an altogether un-hybrid-like driving experience.3
How to think like a hybrid.
The Jetta Hybrid smartly employs the right energy source at all times.
So all you have to do is enjoy the drive.
CHARGEENGINEBOOST
Regenerative Braking Charge
The gas and electric motor work together
to deliver the full, turbocharged 170 hp of
the Jetta Hybrid.
When the gas engine is solely engaged,
the Jetta Hybrid still maintains incredible
fuel efficiency and delivers power like a normal car.2
With regenerative braking, every time you
apply the brakes, energy is sent back to the battery to recharge it.
How to move ahead.
7
SPEED DUAL CLUTCH
20%
MORE EFFICIENT
The first 7-speed dual-clutch transmission in a hybrid. It anticipates the next gear for ultrafast shifts, so you'll go where no hybrid has gone before.DSG® TRANSMISSIONThis state-of-the-art transmission allows you to use 20% less fuel than conventional automatics. While still letting you enjoy 100% of the drive.
How to have fun in a hybrid.
See how we did it with the guys from Dubchat.
Dubchat:Jetta Hybrid   Dubchat:MPG/Turbocharged Boost mode   Dubchat:Sailing   Dubchat:Torque
How to set a record.
Flat out fast: Volkswagen takes a hybrid to 187.147 mph at the Bonneville Salt Flats6.
FIND OUT MORE
Angle shot of a Jetta Turbo Hybrid
..48 turbocharged highway miles per gallon.2
When you hear numbers like 48 hwy mpg and 42 city mpg,2 you might think the Jetta Hybrid is more about fuel efficiency than fun.2 But for all its good looks and eco-consciousness, this Jetta gets its power from a turbocharged engine capable of 170 horsepower and 184 lbs/ft of torque. And when you experience its quick-shifting 7-speed DSG® automatic transmission, you'll realize that the Jetta has a lot more going on under the hood than your average hybrid.2.
Think beyond green.Think Blue.
Think Blue® is the Volkswagen way to drive progress by creating and producing cars that are more efficient, eco-conscious, and fun to drive.6 The Volkswagen line features a variety of BlueMotion® technologies ‐ from TDI® Clean Diesel engines to precision direct fuel injection ‐ designed to make our vehicles as blue as possible. Which is likely to make other car companies green with envy. Learn how we think beyond green at Think Blue.
We got a little hyper about mileage.
Yes, this Jetta is quick and fun to drive.3 But it's still got the incredible efficiency you'd expect from a hybrid.1 How incredibly fuel-efficient is it? Well, all you need to do is look, because each VW hybrid shows your energy usage, driving range, and battery percentage on its touchscreen display. And when you see how much fuel you're saving, you'll be pleasantly surprised by how economical this little speed demon can be.2
Supercharged Touareg Hybrid
The supercharged hybrid.
A powerful contradiction.
While the Touareg Hybrid is, in fact, a hybrid, that might be hard to believe because it's also one of the strongest midsized SUVs on the market.4 How's that possible? It's supercharged. With a 3.0L engine delivering a combined 380 hp and 428 lbs/ft of torque, it's one of the most powerful hybrids on the road.4 That's powerful enough to tow lesser hybrids, should the need ever arise.4
.

Sunday, January 26, 2014

THE FORD MUSTANG SHELBY GT500

The Ford Mustang is an automobile manufactured by the Ford Motor Company. It was initially based on the platform of the second generation North American Ford Falcon, a compact car. Introduced early on April 17, 1964, and thus dubbed as a "1964½" model by Mustang fans, the 1965 Mustang was the automaker's most successful launch since the Model A. The Mustang has undergone several transformations to its current fifth generation.

The Mustang created the "pony car" class of American automobiles—sports car-like coupes with long hoods and short rear decks—and gave rise to competitors such as the Chevrolet Camaro, and Pontiac Firebird, AMC Javelin, as well as Chrysler's revamped Plymouth Barracuda and the first generation Dodge Challenger. The Mustang is also credited for inspiring the designs of coupés such as the Toyota Celica and Ford Capri, which were imported to the United States.
The Shelby is a higher performance variant of the Ford Mustang which was built by Shelby American from 1965 to 1967, and Shelby Automotive from 1968 to 1970. Following the introduction of the fifth generation Ford Mustang, the Shelby nameplate was revived in 2007 for new high performance versions of the Mustang.

First unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November 2011, Ford Shelby GT500 is the most potent Mustang ever. The 354.6 cubic inches (5.811 l) 4-V V8 supercharged engine is certified to produce 662 bhp and 631 lb-ft of torque, with a claimed top speed of 202 miles per hour (325 km/h). The new GT500 weighs 3,850 pounds (1,750 kg), and was available starting May 2012.

The 2013 models have various improvements and differences compared to the GT500 of 2012 including new front end sheet metal along with standard HID headlamps, along with a new LED tail light assembly. The new 2013 Shelby GT500 also has no grill, due to the massive amount of cooling required for the vehicle. Performance changes include twin fuel pumps (a Mustang GT’s single supply pump, twice over), larger fuel injectors, a grippier and larger-diameter clutch, a larger fan, a three-row intercooler (the previous car used a double-row unit), a beefed-up Tremec 6060 six-speed with an internal oil pump, and a single-piece carbon-fiber driveshaft. Larger Brembo front disc brakes with six-piston calipers, reinforced axle tubes, and aero tweaks to help the car reach 200+mph safely. Ford says the changes have resulted in a 14-percent reduction in drag and a 66-percent increase in front-end downforce. Also new for 2013 is a larger front anti-roll bar and retuned springs. An rpm-adjustable electronic launch-control function is standard, as is four-mode electronic stability control.

A Performance package is also offered, adding two-mode adjustable Bilstein dampers and a Torsen limited-slip rear differential. In addition to the Performance package, a Track package for road racing can be ordered bringing a transmission cooler, a nose-mounted differential cooler for the Torsen limited-slip unit, and an air-to-oil engine-oil cooler. Wilwood disc brakes was also brought on board with an improved stopping package.

A Motor Trend magazine May 2012 road test provided a 0-60 time of 3.5 seconds and a quarter mile time of 11.6 seconds at over 125 miles per hour (201 km/h). By comparison the '13 GT500 is faster than both the Camaro ZL1 and Corvette Z06.

Automobile-Catalog computer model estimates provided a 0-60 time of 3.3 seconds, a quarter mile time of 11.3 seconds at 130 miles per hour (210 km/h), and a top speed of 212 miles per hour (341 km/h).

In February 2012, at the Chicago Auto Show, Shelby officially announced that a convertible version of the 2013 GT500 will reach production. The convertible has a limited top speed of 155 miles per hour (249 km/h).