Wednesday

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers


Though an upcoming 429-horsepower 5.0-liter V8 might suggest otherwise, Hyundai intends to lead the industry in fuel economy. As recently as 2005 this would have seemed a pipe dream. That year’s Hyundai Sonata automatic managed fuel economy ratings of only 19/27 MPG from the EPA (2008+ system), well below the 21/31 achieved by the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid does far better: 22/35. But the glory, of course, goes to hybrids, and so the Sonata will soon be available in hybrid form. The projected EPA numbers: 36/40. Is Toyota’s hybrid leadership in danger?

By arriving late to the hybrid party, Hyundai had ample opportunity to learn from others’ failures. One lesson: car buyers expect a hybrid to look different. Hyundai’s solution: graft an exceedingly ugly nose, complete with an XXL hexagonal lower grille, onto the Sonata. LED tail lamps take the other end of the car up a notch. Exhaust is the opposite of green, so the pipe is concealed. The exterior tweaks aren’t solely for aesthetics: they also reduce the drag coefficient from an already Volt-beating 0.28 to a Prius-tying 0.25.

The interior is standard stylish 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid, with a few notable exceptions. An “eco guide” replaces the tach. The trip computer receives a mild upgrade. The optional leather upholstery gains perforations. The optional sunroof gains a rear panel—an odd choice since this should reduce efficiency by adding weight and increasing the load on the AC. And a surprise: the HVAC airflow control is properly three pieces rather than one, so it provides the function as well as the form of the Volvo control that clearly inspired it. As in other hybrids, trunk space takes a hit, dropping from 16.4 to 10.7 cubic feet.

For their hybrids, Ford and Nissan followed the Toyota HSD model. Hyundai has taken a different route. Where HSD employs a planetary gearset CVT, Hyundai retains the regular Sonata’s six-speed automatic—but not quite all of it. Unlike in the late, unlamented Honda Accord Hybrid, which similarly sandwiched a (much weaker) electric motor between a conventional gas engine and a conventional automatic transmission, there’s no torque converter. Instead, the electric motor handles transitions to and from a dead stop. The Sonata Hybrid’s engine also receives one substantial modification. As in the HSG, the 2.4-liter four runs through an Atkinson cycle to virtually lengthen the ignition stroke and so squeeze a bit more energy out of each cycle. The cost of closing the intake valves part way through the compression stroke: 29 peak horsepower (now 169).

The innovation that makes this unique powertrain possible: a clutch between the engine and electric motor. The Honda Accord Hybrid’s engine could not be declutched from the rest of the powertrain, so that car could not run on electric power alone and had to retain the inefficiencies of a torque converter. By declutching the engine, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid can (allegedly) cruise up to 62 MPH on electric power alone.

Finally, Hyundai opted for a lithium-polymer battery rather than the NiMH batteries employed by the others. The lithium-polymer batter is more compact and lighter. Partly as a result the Sonata Hybrid weighs only 3,457 pounds, over 200 less than the Camry and Fusion. Downsides? Hyundai isn’t suggesting any, but the newer technology is less proven and can’t be cheap.

How does it behave? Total gas-plus-electric power output is a little higher at the peak, and notably higher at low rpm, where the 40-horsepower electric motor contributes 151 pound-feet of twist. So, like its direct competitors, the Sonata Hybrid feels plenty quick. The drivetrain sometimes plays a touch rough at low speeds—perhaps the clutch engaging and disengaging—but otherwise behaves well. The conventional automatic feels so much more normal than a CVT—it can even be manually shifted—that the deleted tach is actually missed.

So what’s not to love? Fuel economy. I barely touched 40 in a largely highway stint. When did 40 become disappointing? When the 274-horsepower Sonata 2.0T achieved the same. In suburban driving, I managed “only” 31.3 despite a very light foot. The 36 promised by the EPA numbers wasn’t happening. And while electric-only operation might be possible up to 62 MPH, it doesn’t actually happen unless you’re extremely light on the gas. A tailwind and/or a downhill slope might also be required. The Toyota-type system seems to have a clear advantage in city and suburban driving. In these conditions the Ford Fusion Hybrid tops the Sonata by about 10 MPG. Drive the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid aggressively, and suburban fuel economy falls below 20. A Ford Fusion Hybrid still managed 27 when subjected to my lead foot.

Better driving aids might help, or would at least be more entertaining. Toyota, Ford, and others have been providing ever more precise and detailed feedback to help drivers adjust their driving style to maximize efficiency. In contrast, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid's “eco guide” is little better than the MPG gauge BMW has been offering for decades. A vine that grows and loses leaves against a background that changes color, both based on your driving style, can be summoned up, but it’s as useless here as it is elsewhere. Sought but not found: some indication of the limits of the regenerative braking system, beyond which the conventional brake rotors cut in to convert kinetic energy into heat.

With curb weight up just a couple hundred pounds, and with the steering electrically-assisted in both cases, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid steers and handles much like the regular Sonata. Meaning better than average, and bordering on fun to drive, but not as taut as the Fusion Hybrid. With the optional 17-inch wheels the ride is more jittery than the Sonata Limited’s. The likely culprit: while the tire size is the same, 215/55VR17, the Limited wore Hankook H431s while the Hybrid is shod with Kumho Solus KH25s. Even so, the ride-handling balance could be the best in the segment, with sharper handling than the Camry and a smoother ride than the Fusion.

Taken by itself, the 2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid is a very good, even excellent car. But, even more than most hybrids, it makes little rational sense. Despite the lofty promise made by the EPA city figure, the hybrid system doesn’t seem to improve fuel economy nearly as much as the Toyota-type system in city and suburban driving. It fares better on the highway—40 MPG for a roomy, semi-lux sedan is certainly admirable—but must then contend with the regular Sonata, which does nearly as well, even with the 274-horsepower turbocharged engine. Pricing for the Hybrid hasn’t yet been announced. If Hyundai charges $2,500 or less extra for the hybrid bits, which will be cut in half by a $1,300 tax credit, and the technology turns you on more than the front end turns you off, then by all means go for it. Otherwise, the regular Sonata is a better bet.


2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid Wallpapers

Monday

2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures


The all-new five-passenger SUV rides on a wheelbase that has been elongated by 1.4 inches, and the top-of-the line 2012 Infiniti FX50 is powered by an all-new 5.0 liter V8 mated to a new seven-speed automatic transmission: a first for Infiniti.

The transmission can be shifted via steering column-mounted paddles, and downshift blip the throttle to match revs during spirited driving.

The newly developed 5.0-liter V8 that trumps the 4.5-liter V8 it replaces by 70 horsepower and 34 lb-ft of torque, with its rating of 390 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. It is only available with Infiniti's advanced ATTESA-ETS (Advanced Total Traction Engineering System for All Electronic Torque Split) all-wheel drive system. The new engine has better overall fuel economy than its predecessor as well, and is rated at

Safety systems on the 2012 Infiniti FX50 in both trims include Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution, as well as traction and stability systems. Optional is Intelligent Brake Assist for warning of a frontal collision and capable of automatic braking, Distance Control Assist (DCA) for keeping pre-set distances from the vehicle ahead in heavy traffic and a Lane Departure Warning/Lane Departure Prevention system, which helps keep the FX in its lane.

Standard comfort and convenience fare includes Infiniti's Intelligent Key entry and vehicle start system, as well as optional Intelligent Cruise Control (Full Speed Range) and Around View Monitor system.

Standard lighting includes High Intensity Discharge (HID) headlights while LED taillights double as aerodynamic aids. All paints covering the FX's new, lighter body utilize Infiniti's Scratch Shield technology that uses sunlight to heat the clear coat and fill in any fine scratches it may have endured.

Inside, the base sound system is a Bose-designed, 11-speaker set-up with AM/FM band reception, a six-disc changer and XM satellite radio hardware. An optional hard-drive based audio and navigation system includes real time traffic information with an XM subscription, a 9.3GB digital juke box, iPod interface, CF card slot and a voice recognition system for controlling the climate control, navigation and audio system and phone.

2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures

2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures
2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures

2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures
2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures

2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures
2012 Infiniti FX50 Pictures

GMC Acadia Wallpapers


A new, premium Denali model joins the GMC Acadia lineup for 2011, adding a new dimension of luxury and exclusivity to this popular crossover. It brings the distinctive Denali design elements, including a chrome honeycomb grille and monochromatic exterior color cues, along with exclusive fascias, high-intensity discharge headlamps and unique interior features. “The GMC Denali models have come to stand for luxury and exclusivity, and that’s just what customers will get in the new Acadia Denali,” said Lisa Hutchinson, GMC product marketing director. “The decision to develop an Acadia Denali was made quickly within the new GM in response to customer and dealer demand for a Denali version ever since the launch and success of the Acadia.”GMC's popular, eight-passenger Acadia continues in 2010 to win over customers seeking the spaciousness and capability of an SUV with a smooth ride and responsive handling of a crossover.

* USB connectivity in center console, enabling stored audio files to play through the audio system and battery charging for some handheld devices

* Yukon Denali-style roof rack

* Cashmere interior availablePowered by a direct injected 3.6L V-6, it is offered in SLE and SLT trims. All-wheel drive and SLT-1 and SLT-2 equipment packages are available. A comprehensive safety system includes six standard air bags and standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with rollover mitigation technology.GMC’s popular Acadia continues to win over customers seeking the spaciousness and capability of an SUV with a smooth ride and responsive handling of a crossover. Nearly 73,000 were sold in 2007 and sales increased more than 75 percent in the first quarter of 2008 – in a segment that was up only 9 percent over the first quarter in the previous year.For 2009, Acadia receives an enhanced version of the 3.6L V-6 VVT engine that uses gasoline direct injection technology to help produce more power, greater fuel economy and increased towing capacity than the ’08 model. The engine is paired with Acadia’s fuel-saving six-speed automatic transmission.

GMC Acadia Wallpapers

GMC Acadia Wallpapers
GMC Acadia Wallpapers

GMC Acadia WallpapersGMC Acadia Wallpapers
GMC Acadia Wallpapers

GMC Acadia WallpapersGMC Acadia Wallpapers
GMC Acadia Wallpapers

Sunday

Mazda 6 Pictures


The Mazda6 or Mazda 6 known as the Mazda Atenza in Japan is a mid-size car produced by the Japanese car manufacturer Mazda since 2002. The Mazda6 has sold over one million units worldwide since its introduction, hitting that sales milestone faster than all previous Mazdas.

The Mazda6 was the first example of the company's new Stylish, Insightful, and Spirited design philosophy followed by the Mazda2 in December 2002, RX-8 in August 2003, Mazda3 in January 2004, Mazda5 in the summer of 2005, MX-5 in October 2005, and Mazda CX-7 in November 2006. The Mazda6 is the successor of Mazda 626, also known as Mazda Capella and Mazda Cronos. The 2002 Mazda6 is essentially the 4th generation Mazda 626 as the Mazda6 continues on the G-platform, progressing from the GF-platform 626/Capella to the GG-platform Mazda6.

The Mazda6 is currently raced in the SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge GTS class. Mazda finished first in the manufacturer's championship standings. Mazda6 drivers also finished first and second in the Touring Car driver points.

Mazda 6 Pictures

Mazda 6 Pictures
Mazda 6 Pictures

Mazda 6 PicturesMazda 6 Pictures
Mazda 6 Pictures

Mazda 6 PicturesMazda 6 Pictures
Mazda 6 Pictures

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers


2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Release – After a long 2011 Toyota Camry has now been released. The car is luxurious, elegant and sporty has many enthusiasts around the world. This car has its advantages in fuel efficiency but has a slightly more expensive price. 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a car with the best deals will be a hybrid because it has a combination of fuel efficiency of engines and sophisticated capabilities.

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid uses a sophisticated engine technology is the engine 2.4-liter four-cylinder petrol (which produces 147 horsepower and 138 pound-feet of torque) and 45-hp electric motor. Camry Hybrid can run on any combination of the two resources. Power is transferred to the front wheels through a continuously variable transmission (CVT). CVT was chosen for its ability to keep the gas engine in the most efficient power band.

Camry Hybrid combination of gas and electric motor was surprisingly strong. Acceleration of his superiors at most four-cylinder sedan and not far behind much of the six-cylinder. Since the gas engine from the Toyota Camry Hybrid will close at the bus stop and under some driving conditions, air-conditioning system and electrically driven power steering and off the vehicle battery. This maximizes fuel economy and ensure that the AC will continue to operate.
Not one for those of you who want a car with a powerful engine performance, and full efficient, then the 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid is a good recommendation for the selection of hybrid cars. 2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid price reaches $ 27,050

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers
2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Wallpapers

Saturday

Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers


If the grandiose Rolls-Royce Phantom—birthed by BMW in 2003—reestablished the marque’s exceptionalism, the 2011 Ghost brings that notion down to a more human scale. The Ghost is the daily driver; the Phantom, whether in sedan, extended-wheelbase sedan, coupe, or drophead (convertible) form, should be held in reserve for special occasions, such as crashing White House dinners.

The Ghost truncates one of the great names from Rolls-Royce's past, the Silver Ghost, a moniker that attached itself to the full line of classically reliable and smooth 40/50s produced from 1906 to 1926. These were the cars that prompted The Autocar and Motor to call Rolls-Royce “The Best Car in the World.” The new Ghost will bring that legacy to bear on the luxury-sedan class, reordering the segment’s hierarchy dominated by the Bentley Continental Flying Spur, Mercedes S-class, and BMW 7-series. This steel-monocoque car might weigh as much as the Bentley (nearly a staggering 5500 pounds) but also produces an intimidating 563 hp and charges from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.8 seconds. Moreover, it will achieve total pricing supremacy when it gets here in early 2010, with a projected MSRP of about $245,000 to start. Some might argue that this makes it more of a competitor to the forthcoming Bentley Mulsanne than to lesser Bentleys. We prefer to think of the Mulsanne as an insufficiently expensive competitor to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.

Because Rolls is now under BMW’s stewardship, and because using common parts is essential for a manufacturer’s economies of scale (but mostly because Rolls-Royce admitted that the Ghost shares 20 percent of itself with the BMW 7-series, specifically, the V-12–powered 760Li), it’s tempting to think that the new car is simply an upsized BMW, a 9-series with an available metallic hood. That characterization is a little unfair to this new sedan. The 20-percent commonality hides in the climate-control system, the electrical architecture, parts of the floorpan, and some engine components. Both cars’ twin-turbocharged V-12s come from the same engine family, but the Ghost’s is stroked to 6.6 liters (up from the 760’s 6.0) and gets some revised internals such as a new crank. And whereas the BMW has only air springs at the rear, the Ghost uses adaptive air suspension at all four corners. The Rolls needed a more regal seating position, larger-diameter tires, and coach-style doors, which necessitated more changes. The new overall tire diameter meant new steering and suspension kinematics, and the raised seating position and center-opening doors meant reengineering the donor platform for crash safety.

Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers

Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers
Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers

Rolls-Royce Phantom WallpapersRolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers
Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers

Rolls-Royce Phantom WallpapersRolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers
Rolls-Royce Phantom Wallpapers

Friday

BMW X3 Wallpapers


At its introduction, the BMW X3 offered something no one else could—a luxury-compact with the versatility and all-road capability of a sport-utility, combined with the quality, performance and handling of a BMW. Compared to the large domestic and Japanese sport-utility vehicles then dominating the market, the BMW X3 offered a smaller, more nimble, yet in many ways equally versatile alternative.The BMW X3 also introduced drivers to xDrive, BMW's “intelligent” all-wheel-drive system that offers near-instantaneous torque apportioning with changing road conditions. Many competitors have since entered the segment pioneered by the BMW X3 but none have been able to match the dynamic handling and performance that mark this Sports Activity Vehicle® as an authentic BMW.

BMW X3 Wallpapers

BMW X3 Wallpapers
BMW X3 Wallpapers

BMW X3 WallpapersBMW X3 Wallpapers
BMW X3 Wallpapers

BMW X3 WallpapersBMW X3 Wallpapers
BMW X3 Wallpapers

Thursday

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers


The wait is over ladies and gentlemen: Lamborghini’s next hypercar has made its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show, and dare we say what a hypercar it is! The new Bull God will feature an earth shattering 700hp V12 and the highest power to weight ratio of any car in its class. Yes, this is the new, long waited Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4.

Lamborghini is really good at creating sinister super sports cars, but it is equally as talented at naming them. According to the company, "Aventador" was the name of a bull that entered into battle on October 1993 at the Saragossa Arena, earning the "Trofeo de la Peña La Madroñera" for its outstanding courage. Having the courage to go up against a new world of super sports cars will be the name of the game for the new Lamborghini flagship. Today’s world is extremely high-tech and many new players have entered the arena. Lamborghini has been promoting its carbon-fiber monocoque technology and the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 2.9 second 0-62mph, but will that be enough?

According to Stephan Winkelmann, President and CEO of Automobili Lamborghini. "The Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 is a jump of two generations in terms of design and technology, it’s the result of an entirely new project, but at the same time it’s a direct and consistent continuation of Lamborghini’s brand values. It is extreme in its design and its performance, uncompromising in its standards and technology, and unmistakably Italian in its style and perfection. Overall, the dynamics and technical excellence of the Lamborghini Aventador LP700-4 makes it unrivaled in the worldwide super sports car arena."

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers
Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 WallpapersLamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers
Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers

Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 WallpapersLamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers
Lamborghini Aventador LP 700-4 Wallpapers

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures


Corvette provides a premium driving environment with such options of rich leather coverings on the instrument panel upper, door panel uppers, console cover and sport seat surfaces with the available Custom Leather-Wrapper Interior Package on the 4LT trim level. This option also gives you the opportunity to personalize your Corvette with contrasting stitching in Red, Yellow, and Blue. Corvette convertible boasts a standard 430-hp LS3 V8. You can order the available dual-mode exhaust system to boost total horsepower to 436. Engage the road with a standard short-throw six-speed transmission (0-to-60 mph in 4.2 seconds on the test track) or available Six-Speed Paddle Shift automatic. An enclosed trunk offers luggage space for a weekend getaway or room for two golf bags. For those who like to compete in club-sanctioned closed-course track events, launch control is standard with the short-throw six-speed manual gearbox. It modulates engine rpm to lay the power down more smoothly while providing consistent acceleration times on the test track. Corvette is engineered for safety before, during and – thanks to OnStar – after a collision. Active Handling and 4-wheel antilock brakes help you stay on the road and in control to help avoid accidents in the first place.

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures
2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures
2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures

2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures
2011 Chevrolet Corvette Pictures

Tuesday

2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers


The Subaru Tribeca underwent a major overhaul for 2008 with new styling, a more powerful engine, and retuned suspension, and for 2011 the updates have been kept to a minimum. The five-passenger version of the Subaru Tribeca is no longer offered. Once again, the 2011 Subaru Tribeca's sole engine option is a 3.6-liter flat-six engine with 256 horsepower and 247 pounds-feet of torque on tap. Drive is sent to all four wheels via a five-speed automatic transmission and a symmetrical all-wheel-drive system. Performance from the flat-six engine is respectable, but it's no match for competitors like the Ford Edge or Honda Pilot. Fuel economy is neither poor nor especially good for this class, with the Subaru Tribeca returning 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway; best of all, it runs on regular unleaded fuel rather than the previous generation's super unleaded requirement. Handling is one of the best attributes of the Subaru Tribeca; push hard into a corner and the Subaru Tribeca has good body control and better steering than most other vehicles of this type. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca's 8.4 inches of ground clearance and standard all-wheel drive may scream off-road prowess, but this mid-size crossover is better suited to the suburban environment. Real off-roading isn't the goal here—just all-weather performance.

The Subaru Tribeca has a firm but smooth and controlled ride, and an interior that's a step quieter than what we've become accustomed to from Subaru. Subaru Tribeca's interior has a futuristic theme with flowing lines that wrap around the driver and front passenger. The design, while unique, does limit front seat roominess, especially around the knees.

The 2011 Subaru Tribeca is also one of the safest vehicles in its class, scoring full marks in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's (IIHS) crash tests. On top of that, the Subaru Tribecaboasts a ton of standard safety features, including side-impact airbags for the front seats and side curtain airbags for first- and second-row passengers but not for third-row passengers. TheCarConnection.com advises opting for the rearview camera, which makes those pesky reverse parking maneuvers a breeze.

A new Touring model has also joined the lineup, featuring a moonroof, a navigation system, and a reversing camera all as standard. Whichever trim you choose in the lineup—Premium, Limited, or Touring—fog lights, 18-inch wheels, power driver and passenger seat, heated front seats, and third-row seating are standard equipment.

2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers

2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers
2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers

2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers
2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers

2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers
2011 Subaru Tribeca Wallpapers