Auto Review

The Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is now even more powerful and efficient. As part of the "AMG Performance 2015" model strategy, the high-performance E-Class now features the new 5.5-liter V8 biturbo engine. Familiar from the 2012 CLS63 AMG this new engine can produce either 518 hp or 550 hp, together with an impressive reduction in fuel consumption - 22 percent less based on the European driving cycle. Also responsible for improved fuel economy is the newly developed electromechanical AMG speed-sensitive sports steering system which only draws power during steering wheel movements. The 2012MY E63 AMG goes on-sale in the U.S. in the Fall of 2011.

This eight-cylinder powerhouse, designated internally as the M157, boasts a combination of innovative high-tech components such as spray-guided direct gasoline injection with piezo injectors, a full aluminum crankcase, four-valve technology with camshaft adjustment, air/water intercooling, generator management and an Eco Stop/Start system. With a displacement of 5,461 cc the eight-cylinder engine develops a peak output of 518 hp and torque of 516 lb-ft. In conjunction with the optional AMG Performance Package, these figures increase to 550 hp and 590 lb-ft. Both variants of the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG achieve exceptional performance: acceleration from zero to 60 mph takes 4.4 and 4.3 seconds respectively and the top speed is 155 mph or 186 mph with the AMG Performance Package (electronically limited).

The improvements in output and torque that come with the AMG Performance Package can be attributed primarily to an increase in the maximum boost pressure from 14.5 to 18.8 psi. Visible differentiation is provided by a carbon fiber engine cover, AMG Performance steering wheel with black Alcantara side grips, red-painted brake calipers and a carbon fiber trunk lid spoiler.

AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission helps save fuel
The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also plays a major role in the cars exemplary consumption figures. In place of a conventional torque converter, the MCT uses a compact wet start-up clutch. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG also features a ECO Stop/Start function which is active in the Controlled Efficiency ("C") transmission mode and switches the eight-cylinder engine off when the vehicle comes to a stop. The ECO Stop/Start function can be activated or deactivated using the ECO button on the center console. When in transmission mode "C", the vehicle will always start-off in second gear. The system will also shift earlier and avoid high engine speeds. The demand-driven fuel pump and generator use braking energy during deceleration to further add to fuel economy.

Even with these improvements performance is not compromised thanks to transmission modes "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual) which enhance the cars agility with shorter response times, higher engine speeds and sharper gear changes to harness the full potential of the new AMG V8 biturbo engine. In all three transmission modes, not only is the ECO Stop/Start system deactivated but the engine management system partially suppresses the cylinders at full load. This caully managed interruption to ignition and injection results in faster gear changes and an exhilarating exhaust note - all aided by automatic rev-matching during shifts.

AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension and new steering system
The 2012 E63 AMG features the AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with a specially designed front axle: the track has been widened by 2.2 inches and includes independent wheel carriers for increased negative camber at the front to improve grip during performance driving. Further features include steel suspension struts on the front axle and air suspension struts on the rear axle, with an automatic level control system and an electronically controlled damping system, which automatically adjusts the damping characteristics depending on driving conditions and reduces body roll. All this combines to provide lightningquick adjustment between optimum driving comfort and the best possible agility. The driver can switch between the three suspension modes of "Comfort", "Sport" and "Sport plus" at the touch of a button.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG is also features a new electromechanical AMG speedsensitive sports steering system with a more direct ratio of 14:1 and variable power assistance that adapts according to the suspension mode. The new steering provides extremely agile handling through bends while also helping to reduce fuel consumption since the power assistance system only draws power when the vehicle is actually being steered.

In addition to the 3-stage ESP® system with Sport mode, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG features the AMG high-performance braking system with two-piece discs at the front.

An even more powerful, 40 percent lighter AMG ceramic high-performance two-piece braking system is available as a special order option. Optimum grip comes courtesy of the new 19-inch AMG 10-spoke wheels with 255/35 R19 tires on the front and 285/30 R19 at the rear. The "flowforming" production process already used with the SLS AMG and the CLS63 AMG optimizes durability, while also reducing weight by up to 1.76 lb per wheel.

Purposeful, aggressive exterior
Externally, the Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG with the new M157 engine is identifiable by its new light-alloy wheels and the "V8 BITURBO" lettering on its distinctive, wider front fenders. Further unique details include AMG bodystyling with a specific design for the front and rear along with AMG rocker panels and an AMG sports exhaust system with two chrome-plated twin tailpipes.

Significantly upgraded interior
A striking feature of the high-quality, exquisitely crafted interior is the new AMG Performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design. The rim of this wheel, as in the 2012 CLS63 AMG, is flattened at both top and bottom to facilitate even better control of the vehicle. Aluminum shift paddles, the perforated leather in the grip areas and the three-dimensional design of the airbag cover with its "Silver Shadow" metallic trim element complement the new E-SELECT shift lever with embossed AMG badge.

Like the CLS63 AMG, the instrument cluster of the 2012 Mercedes E63 AMG features a three-dimensional full-color TFT display in the center of the speedometer. The driver is welcomed by the AMG logo within the display upon opening the door.

Driving assistance systems for added safety
Numerous driver assistance systems in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG help to avoid traffic accidents or mitigate their severity, such as Active Blind Spot Assist and Active Lane Keeping Assist. Active Blind Spot Assist warns the driver if the short-range radar sensors detect a risk of collision should the vehicle change lanes. If the driver ignores these warnings and comes dangerously close to the vehicle in the next lane, Active Blind Spot Assist will intervene by applying braking force to the rear wheel on the opposite side of the vehicle, controlled through the 3-stage ESP® system, a yaw movement is created which corrects the cars path.

Active Lane Keeping Assist is also linked to the 3-stage ESP and activates when the driver inadvertently drifts over a solid line to the right or left of a lane. In this case, Active Lane Keeping Assist brakes the opposite rear wheel and prevents the vehicle from crossing the line. A display on the instrument cluster warns the driver at the same time. If broken lane markings are crossed, the system controls an electric pulse generator in the steering wheel which generates vibrations for a short time - a discreet but effective cue to countersteer immediately. Before the braking system intervenes, the steering wheel always vibrates to provide a warning.

The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is one of the latest version of 2013 Lincoln. A 2013 Lincoln MKZ is getting closer to production. The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is crucial if the brand is going to hit its stride with more fashion-conscious. The 2013 Lincoln MKZ Price of $42,810.

From first look, the 2013 Lincoln MKZ it appears like this model should make some important advances. A 2013 Lincoln MKZ has 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6 and six-speed automatic should provide good thrust; all-wheel drive is in the mix; and Ford’s 240-hp, 2.0-liter EcoBoost four is good for 33 mpg highway for those who want greener performance. And that’s even before considering the new 2013 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid.

Inside, the 2013 Lincoln MKZ makes a much stronger design statement than before, with rich luxury trims surrounding the futuristic MyLincoln touch interface, along with new touches like a push-button shifter. And Lincoln Drive Control should also provide the sort of custom dynamic controls for ride, steering, and behind-the-wheel character that luxury shoppers are fast becoming used to. The 2013 Lincoln MKZ is beautifully executed as well, with attractive interiors and a clean center stack design made possible by the lack of a traditional gear selector. With the unveiling of the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, the automaker also revealed its plans to modernize the car-buying experience.

 Toyota Camry Hybrid, 2012

Toyota introduced the all-new, seventh-generation Toyota Camry, Americas best-selling car for nine years running and 13 of the past 14 years. The 2012 Camry debuts a bold, sophisticated new design with a more spacious interior, improved driving dynamics and an even quieter ride than before. With class leading safety, fuel economy and multi-media technology added in, the end result is the best Toyota Camry ever made. Introduced in 1983, the Toyota Camry would later establish the template for the modern midsize sedan, setting benchmarks for Quality, Dependability and Reliability, along with a comfortable, quiet ride. Since that time, Toyota has sold more than 15 million Camry models worldwide.

The Toyota Camry again offers three powertrain choices, all of which have been enhanced for 2012 to provide better fuel economy and more responsive performance. All Camry models with the revised 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine now offer 178 horsepower, an increase of nine hp, and 170 lb.-ft. of peak torque. EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are 25 mpg city/35 highway, and the 28 mpg combined is two more than the previous generation Camry. The 2.5-liter engine employs Dual VVT-i (Dual Variable Valve Timing-intelligent), which controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds. The Acoustic Control Induction System (ACIS) helps optimize torque over a broad engine speed range.

Performance and Efficiency
The DOHC 3.5-liter V6, available in the SE and XLE grades, delivers 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. of peak torque at 4,700 rpm. Enhancements to this engine boost its fuel economy to projected EPA-estimated ratings of 21 mpg city/30 mpg highway, the best for any current V6 midsize sedan.

The V6 uses chain-driven camshafts and Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i). To improve efficiency, the V6 features a new, lower oil viscosity and an automatic transmission fluid warmer that brings the transmission to operating temperature more quickly in cold weather. Higher final drive-gear ratios also contribute to better fuel economy in the new Toyota Camry models.

The gas-engine LE, XLE and SE models come equipped exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential manual shift mode using the console shifter. Intelligent control adapts shifting strategy in response to driver input, with fast kick-down. In addition, the Camry SE exclusively offers a "D range" sequential shifting, which allows manual shifting with the new steering wheel paddle shifters even when the console shifter is in the "D" mode. Also exclusive to the Toyota Camry SE, the automatic transmission features faster shift times when in "S" mode and downshift blipping control emphasizes a sense of sportiness.

All-New Camry Hybrid Sets New Standard for Mid-size Hybrid Sedans
The all-new Camry Hybrid debuts a highly revised version of the brands Hybrid Synergy Drive powertrain, including a new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. The 2012 Camry Hybrid LE, with EPA-estimated 43 mpg city/39 mpg highway/41 mpg combined, yields a more-than-30 percent boost in fuel economy in the EPA city and combined driving cycles, compared to the previous generation, thanks largely to the new hybrid powertrain, but also due to lighter vehicle weight and optimized aerodynamics.

Through its unique trans axle, the Hybrid Synergy Drive system combines output from the four-cylinder engine with a small high-torque electric motor. The system produces a combined 200 horsepower and varies power between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both, as needed.

The new 2.5-liter engine, like the 2.4-liter it replaces, uses the Atkinson cycle (delayed intake-valve closing for an expansion ratio greater than compression ratio) to achieve maximum efficiency. The Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) system on the intake camshaft enhances torque, which is greater than with the previous engine. An electric water pump, a roller-rocker type valvetrain and a variable-output oil pump help to reduce internal friction, boosting economy.

A new water-cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system helps to ensure the lowest possible emissions at all vehicle speeds and helps increase fuel efficiency. By cooling and controlling exhaust gas injected into each cylinder, the system eliminates the need to richen the air-fuel mixture to control cylinder temperatures.

The 2012 Camry Hybrid meets AT-PZEV (Advanced Technology Partial-credit Zero Emissions Vehicle) standards. New sound absorbing materials in the engine compartment, along with more linear control over engine speed, give the 2012 Camry Hybrid a more pleasing sound under acceleration.

Because there are situations in which the gas engine in the Toyota Camry Hybrid shuts off, air conditioning and power steering systems are driven electrically. New efficiency measures in the Hybrid Synergy Drive system include reducing internal losses in the trans axle, improving motor-voltage control, and optimizing the regenerative braking. The proven nickel-metal-hydride battery, located in the luggage compartment behind the rear seats, now features enhanced air-cooling. Its more compact size, along with moving the DC/DC converter to the engine compartment, results in a trunk that is 2.1-cubic feet larger than in the previous-generation Camry Hybrid.

Lighter overall vehicle weight also contributes to better performance and fuel economy. Its 7.6-second zero-to-60 acceleration time places the Camry Hybrid between the four-cylinder and V6 models. Lower rolling resistance tires, available for the first time in 17-inch size, also help boost fuel economy.

New for the 2012 Camry Hybrid, an EV Drive mode allows the driver to operate the car on the electric motor alone for up to 1.6 miles at lower speeds (below approximately 25 mph). The EV indicator illuminates when the vehicle is being propelled solely by the electric motor.

As on the previous Toyota Camry Hybrid, ECO mode optimizes throttle response and air conditioning output to prioritize maximum fuel economy. A Hybrid-exclusive instrument cluster with Hybrid System Indicator and fuel consumption indicator helps the driver to operate the car as economically as possible.

Instantaneous fuel economy is shown with LEDs (light emitting diodes) around the outside of the average fuel economy gauge. The cars Multi-Information display graphically shows fuel economy in real time and can also show energy flow, and cruising range information.

As before, applying the brake converts the motor to a generator that captures the kinetic energy from the still-spinning vehicle wheels, storing it in the hybrid battery pack. Putting the shifter into "B" uses regenerative braking as a form of engine braking for enhanced control on steep descents. New hill-start assist control helps prevent the vehicle from rolling backward when starting off on an incline when the brake pedal is released.

Exclusive exterior and interior design touches and badging differentiate the 2012 Camry Hybrid from other Camry models. Inside, Hybrid-exclusive trim is found on the instrument panel and door switch bases, upper console panels and shift knob. The Camry Hybrid also features its own exclusive seat fabric in ivory or light gray. An exclusive leather and Ultrasuede is also available. A three-dial Optitron gauge panel with chrome-accented outer rings provides a luxurious appearance.

Grade Strategy
The all-new Toyota Camry and Camry Hybrid will offer six different model grades to choose from. Camry will be available in the entry-level L, value-driven LE, premium XLE and sporty SE grades. The XLE and SE are available with four-cylinder or V6 engines. The Camry Hybrid is offered in LE and XLE grades.

Exterior Design
The 2012 Camry employs an elegantly simple but modern form, emphasizing a wider, lower stance than previous models. The design conveys an "architectural statement" through crisp, precise character lines, while a more strongly curved door cross-section and more defined rocker panel molding (chrome accented on LE and XLE) give the Camry a more expressive appearance.

Headlights show a more dynamic shape, with a pronounced curvature of the main-beam unit merging into the bumper cover. Fog lights are standard on the XLE and SE grades. The rear lamp clusters wrap tightly into the body sides, with their top sections extending into the trunk panel.

The Camry LE and XLE feature additional exterior chrome trim, and the SE grade debuts its own lower-body design and exclusive fine-mesh upper grille section. The SE also features three-part lower grille section housing fog lamps, along with black sport trim headlamp bezels. The more prominent rocker panel moldings on the SE cleanly link to integrated front and rear underbody spoilers, emphasizing width, and the trunk lid carries an integrated spoiler.

Accentuating the new body design are four new colors. Two of the colors (Attitude Black Metallic and Clearwater Blue) are all-new to Toyota in the U.S. Attitude Black Metallic blends in a bright blue pigment for an intriguing take on traditional jet black; Clearwater Blue incorporates a silver metallic pigment to lend this hue a glassy, water-like finish.

The Interior Design
While featuring nearly the same external dimensions as the previous generation, the 2012 Camry offers a more inviting and spacious interior. A new dashboard design, modified seat locations, redesigned seats and "lean" door, pillar and headliner trim all combine to add both real space and greater perceptual spaciousness while also enhancing outward visibility. Repositioning the drivers seat and the standard tilt/telescoping steering wheel (tilt has increased 33 percent for greater driver comfort) also aid forward visibility and enhance the drivers positioning.

The accelerator pedal and front seats were moved forward, and the rear-seat hip point was positioned rearward, increasing the couple distance by 0.6-inch; together with reshaped front seatbacks help increase rear-knee room by 1.8-inch. The redesigned center console and front edge of the rear-seat cushion increase rear middle seat legroom by two inches.

Not as obvious are the many areas where Toyota Camry designers reshaped interior trim to increase the feeling of spaciousness, including the A- and B-pillars, headliner over the rear seat and door trim. In most vehicles, space is left between the structure and the trim to yield a "clean" surface. Using a lean-car design approach, the trim more closely follows the structure beneath it. The result is added space that contributes much more to a feeling of comfort than the gains in mere millimeters might suggest.

Three-dimensional construction and contrasting-material textures give the new instrument panel a feeling of depth, while the shapes themselves contribute to a more spacious cabin and improved forward sightlines. The prominently curved center cluster appears to float over the instrument panel, reducing its visual mass. Soft textures used on the upper instrument panel, upper door trim, door armrests and center console armrest contribute to greater comfort in the Camry. Stitching on the instrument panel soft padding and matching stitching-look trim elsewhere helps to create a sense of luxury. Aluminum-color and chrome trim are used judiciously.

The Camry LE and XLE grades feature either ivory or gray seating color; the Camry SE features unique upholstery in black-on-black or black-on-gray. Newly designed front-seat frames, higher seatbacks and longer seat cushions enhance comfort. The height adjustment on the drivers seat offers nearly a half inch greater range than before (total travel is 2.4 inches). The SEs sporty front seats provide thicker side bolsters, and the exclusive three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel offers paddle-shift control for the six-speed automatic transmission.

For 2012, the Toyota Camry offers four seat-covering materials: fabric in the LE and XLE; fabric with SofTex in the SE, standard leather trim on the XLE V6 (optional in the XLE four-cylinder), and Ultrasuede® with leather available for the SE and XLE Hybrid. Heated seats are standard on the XLE V6 and are available for SE, XLE four-cylinder and Hybrid with variable temperature control.

The new Camry provides the added functionality demanded by consumers today, yet keeps its controls straightforward and intuitive to use. Control knobs impart a high-precision feel when used. Special attention was paid to function and comfort with the center console design. Soft kneepads on both sides add comfort for the driver and passenger; the front section offers a 12V accessory connector and an easy-to-access USB/input jack port for connecting iPods and other media devices. A sliding rear console door - rather than the more traditional flip-up design - enables easier access from either front seat. Two steering wheel designs, with integrated audio and Bluetooth® controls, are featured: a four-spoke for LE; a leather-wrapped four-spoke for XLE; and a sporty three-spoke, leather-wrapped wheel for the SE.

All grades now feature a standard 60/40 split folding rear seatback to expand cargo capacity. The seats can be lowered by a remote release from the trunk area. Rear-seat side airbags are standard across the line, and an armrest with cup holders adds comfort and convenience.

Advanced Connectivity
Seamlessly integrated into the Camry are state-of-the-art electronics and enhanced connectivity features. A Bluetooth wireless connection for compatible hands-free phone calls is standard, now improved by an available automatic phone book transfer function. Also standard is a USB port that allows playing of music and video from portable audio devices, using the vehicle sound system and available in-dash display screen, including full iPod integration.

The standard audio system on LE, XLE and SE has a 6.1-inch screen and six speakers. The screen also displays the energy monitor and fuel consumption data, and functions as the monitor for the available integrated back-up camera (SE and XLE only) and the Display Audio System. The screen also offers a new value-driven navigation system and serves as a portal for Entune, Toyotas innovative new multimedia system. An available HD Radio system enables CD sound quality from digital FM broadcasts, and has features that maximize analog and AM broadcast sound quality. The system will include HD Radio with iTunes tagging for future purchase and SiriusXM Satellite Radio.

The top-of-the-line audio is equipped with a new seven-inch Premium HDD Navigation system with Entune and JBL. This system offers a new split-screen feature that allows for simultaneously displaying navigation and audio information.

The 2012 Infiniti G Sedan is one of the latest version of 2012 Infiniti. 2012 Infiniti G Sedan is a 4-door, 5-passenger luxury sports sedan, available in 10 trims, ranging from the 25 to the 37x AWD Limited Edition. The 2012 Infiniti G Sedan is available at price of $32,400 - $45,150.

Upon introduction, the 2012 Infiniti G Sedan 25 is equipped with a standard 2.5-liter, V6, 218-horsepower engine that achieves 20-mpg in the city and 29-mpg on the highway. The 2012 Infiniti G Sedan 37x AWD Limited Edition is equipped with a standard 3.7-liter, V6, 328-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 7-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims.

The 2012 Infiniti G Sedan stepping inside the latest model year will reveal new gauges with a white back theme, which can be complimented by your choice or a new aluminum finish, or a maple trim. The center console and dash also received some stylization changes, and the seven-inch touch-screen now gives users access to real-time traffic and weather via XM satellite. Performance has never been so boldly seductive. Back by popular demand, this time with a Red Obsidian exterior and handcrafted graphite leather interior. Finished with a Midnight Red Grille and smoked graphite wheels, the 2012 Infiniti G37 Sedan Limited Edition will truly elevate your sense of alive.

 

East Coasters interested in Hondas subcompact EV rejoice, yes all five of you: the new all-electric 2013 Fit EV will be available for the first time at select Honda dealerships in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Maryland, New York, and New Jersey before the end of the month. The move follows the market launch of the Fit EV in California and Oregon in July 2012.

The 2012 Kia Rio is the latest version of 2012 KIA. 2012 Kia Rio will appear in first half of 2011. 2012 Kia Rio has a power is likely to arrive from the similar engine choices: 2012 Kia Rio any a 1.4-liter 4-cylinder or a 1.6-liter four-banger.

The 2012 Kia Rio has 1.6-liter engine gets DOHC and changeable valve technology to create approximately 120-hp at 6300 rpm and 114 ft-lbs of torque. The 2012 Kia Rio has 1.4 delivers roughly 105-hp and 100 ft-lbs. equally engines of 2012 Kia Rio approach with either a 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic.

2012 KIA RIO has dissimilar engine and 2012 KIA RIO transmission combos might be offered in North America, as we expect 2012 KIA RIO something better than a 4-speed auto-box. Overall, the 2012 Kia Rio is noticeably larger than the car presently on sale. The new Rios wheelbase is 70mm longer, while the body is 20mm longer and 25mm wider. Interior space has grown as a result, with 45mm more front legroom and seven percent more luggage room. The 2012 Rio rises above conditions on the ground. New drivetrains improve acceleration and fuel economy, while a lengthened wheelbase and an overhauled suspension give it a more ined ride quality than ever before. Were here to drive the 2012 Kia Rio five-door hatchback that goes on sale in early October, but come December.