Pave the Way for Faster Farbio GTS 400

If the topic of a conversation is sports cars, the names usually mentioned are Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Porsche. Sometimes, people’s minds are so limited on these brands that they don’t see there are other sports car brands out there. There is also the Farbio brand. An example of this make is the Farbio GTS. This model is the best epitome of British sports car design. No one will be disappointed in the Farbio GTS because it bears unique style, engineering, and performance. The Fabrio GTS is pure excellence inside and out.

 

Farbio just made things better with the freshly unveiled GTS 400. This is the hottest British sports car of late. Amounting to £94,000, the GTS 400 would bring a totally new experience. Unlike the standard GTS model that produces 262 bhp, the GTS 400 provides a more exhilarating driving experience with 410 hp. This amazing power is made possible through the new parts that compose the engine. The 2967 cc bent six installed in the Farbio GTS 400 is matched with upgraded conrods and trick pistons to improve high-rev durability and to lower compression ratio. When the going gets tough, the Rotrex blower lowers the air temperature from 95 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius.

 

Expect the Farbio TS 400 to be quick. In fact, it can propel itself to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. And top speed it can reach is 180mph. This figure is so exhilarating, no doubt about it! It’s going be an amazing ride if you drive it along highways with no traffic. And even if you push the pedal to the floor the sound remains amazing – “mixture of engine waarp, supercharger whine, and wastegate whoosh.”  

 

Its other features are carbon fiber body, touch-screen control with radio and heater controls, Bluetooth, electric windows, remote central locking, electric folding mirrors, upgraded sound system, European Sat Nav, carbon fiber seats, and a lot more. All of these features combined adds even more to the vehicle’s outstanding performance, comfort, and luxury.

 

When it comes to looks and performance the Farbia GTS 400 can compete with the other well-known sports car brands in the market today. There won’t be many owners of this vehicle since it’s been designed for passion. Not only that, because with a price tag of $143,000 not a lot can afford it. By the way, this faster Farbio GTS 400 is developed by former Marcos and Invicta head Chris Marsh.

Helpful Tips for Winter Driving

 

Christmas is just around the bend! I’m sure everyone is looking forward to having a great get-together with their families and friends. Aside from the merry-making, holidays are also synonymous to traveling, especially nowadays that family members live far apart. If you are one of those who are thinking of driving home for the holidays, better get you gear prepared now. Driving during winter is more hazardous than any other time because the roads are more slippery due to snow. So, if you are driving down over at your parent’s for the holiday you’d better know the what and whatnot’s in winter driving.

 

1. Prepare Your Vehicle – Doing an overall check of the parts and putting them in good condition is a must. If upon checking you see some damaged parts, replace them immediately, especially if it involves the brakes and the tires. And talking about your tires, it’s better to use those that still have good tread. The more tread your car’s tire has the better grip it can have on the road. Installing snow tires is a good thing in this situation because they are really designed for snowy and slippery roads. Aside from tires here are some other parts you need to inspect prior to your trip:
• Battery
• Belts and hoses
• Oil
• Wiper and wiper fluid

And take note, it’s not only the mechanical parts that you have to check. Also maintain your car’s interior. Carpets and mats should be in good condition since you’ll be dripping moisture inside your car each time you get out and in.

 

2. Always Bring an Emergency Kit – Even if you think it’s a hassle to be lugging tools around, you’ll be really thankful you brought them with you if you get stranded in the middle nowhere. What tool should you bring for a winter drive?
• Ice scraper/brush for cleaning your windshield
• Flashlight with spare batteries
• Spare jacket, blanket, and work gloves
• Sand or gravel to put under your wheels in case you get stuck
• Jumper cables
• Communication device in case you need to call for help

 

3. Drive Carefully in Snow – Snow is slippery so driving fast is not a good idea. It’s always better to drive slowly but safely during winter. Drive slowly and apply the brake before turning a corner. If you skid, turn the wheel into the direction of the skid and not against. This will help you regain control of you vehicle.

 

A List of Green Cars at the L.A. Auto Show Part II

Here is a continuation, the second pat of the list of green cars that made their way to the L.A. Auto Show.

 

• MINI E – This is the cutest little car that you can easily navigate in heavily trafficked areas. It’s convenient and it’s highly efficient. The MINI E makes use of a 150 kW (204 hp) electric motor. All its power comes from superior rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Due to the technology used, this car is said to be able to run 240 kilometers on a single full charge. The maximum speed it is capable of is 152 km/h and a peak torque of 220 Newton meters.
• Toyota Camry – The hybrid comes with a 2.4-liter DOHC 16-valve VVT-i-4-cylinder Hybrid that produces 147 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 138 lb-ft of torque at 4400 rpm. Because of its configuration, the Camry gives ultra low emission. So, if you are looking for a fuel-efficient sedan, a good choice would be the Camry. Apart from that, this vehicle also comes with roomy interior, stronger acceleration, and excellent crash test score.
• Honda FC Sport Concept – This is an innovatively-designed vehicle. Its exterior is extremely unlike any Honda ever produced before. That’s why it’s called a concept.  This is a three-seat hydrogen-powered concept. The electric motor equipped in it gives it the capability to show excellent road performance with zero emissions.

• VW Jetta TDI - This particular model will be sold either as a 4-door sedan or as a Sportwagen. Only making use of a 2.-0-liter, 4-cylinder direct-injection diesel engine, this car is expected to have a fuel economy of up to 40 mpg city/50 mpg in the highway. Even at first glance once can see the excellence of this car as is evident in the large Brembo Spotec alloy wheels and Yokohama performance tires.

• Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid Convertible – A sleek convertible that helps out the environment, that’s the Saab 9-X Air BioHybrid Convertible. It’s one package that shows luxury and economy at the same time. Sounds confusing right? By its appearance this vehicle pure luxury but, when you look inside the engine it runs on 1.4-liter turbocharged bioethanol hybrid powertrain that produces 200 horsepower. It uses up 85% bioethanol and 15% gasoline.  

 

So, if you are thinking of buying a fuel-efficient vehicle anytime soon keep these cited models in mind. They can be costly but, it’s worth it in the long run.

A List of Green Cars at the L.A. Auto Show

If you are dying to see a parade of new cars in one setting don’t forget to check out then 2008 L.A. Auto Show. This Auto Show is still underway since it’s from November 21 until November 30. It’s still a few days to go before the final showing so, you still have time to go see the show case.

 

As you know, many car makers are venturing into the production of environmentally-friendly vehicles or those that use “green” technology. So, I guess it is not surprising that the L.A. Auto Show is full of them. I will be presenting a two-part entry of green cars that made it to the L.A. Auto Show. This is the first one. If you’d be so interested to know what green cars sped their way to California, just read on!

 

• 2010 Mitsubishi i MIEV – MIEV means Mitsubishi Innovative Electric Vehicle. It’s a mini car with unique-looking, futuristic exterior design. Instead of nickel-metal hydride batteries, it has modern lithium-ion batteries, which is considerably lighter, smaller and more powerful. The motor is located under the floor in the luggage area. It is here that the 22 lithium-ion cells are strategically position. Its motor produces 63 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. The direct drive also helps in making it fast on the road. The distance you’ll get out of one full charge is about 100 miles, that’s if you don’t use the AC. By the end of 2009, the 2010 Mitsubishi i MIEV will be coming to the stores near you with a $24,000 price tag.

• 2010 Lexus RX 450 Hyrbid – The unit for 2010 is already the third generation of the said model. It exudes innovation, styling, performance, and comfort. This hybrid is equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6 gas engine operating on the Atkinson cycle. It has efficient power inverter with 295 horsepower.

• BMW 7-Series ActiveHybrid – This is a stylish sedan that operates on a twin-turbo V-8 engine matched with an electric motor that’s located on the transmission housing. This configuration allows the car to produce 450 horsepower but with less fuel consumption and toxic emissions. It also generates as much as 155 lb-ft of torque. It has lithium-ion batteries in the luggage compartment that power up all on-board electronics. The batteries are linked with an Auto Start Stop function that ensures efficient power use. 
•  BMW 335d – This is another great hybrid from German Automaker BMW. It has advanced diesel engine with electric personality. The 3-liter, in-line six-cylinder configuration produces 265 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. The only transmission available though is a 6-speed automatic.  
• Hyundai Sonata Hybrid – This is the company’s first hybrid that has “Blue Drive” system matched with high-tech lithium-polymer battery pack. It comes with a 3 kW motor working with a 2.4-liter engine. A

Porsche Panamera Coming Your Way in 2009

It seems like it has been a while since Porsche had something new for its enthusiasts to look forward to. As far as I can remember the one that created such buzz was the Porsche 911. But nowA, enthusiasts have something to look forward to. Make way for Porsche Panamera! This upcoming vehicle is a four-door saloon, or sedan as other would all it. You should know that this is the first four-door model in the Porsche marquee. Pictures of this new model are all over the internet so it’s not hard to see what you can look forward to.

 

In terms of appearance, the upcoming Panamera displays the contours that are present in all Porsche vehicles. The front portion has the sloping hood that is just like those in other Porsche models. It looks low on the ground which makes it appear more sporty and stylish. In front are dual-element headlamps with integrated turn signals, air dam-located daytime running lights. Though it is a four-door sedan, the Panamera is still decidedly a Porsche outside and inside.

 

Road performance is still not compromised in the Porsche Panamera due to the kind of engine it is equipped with. The company specifically developed a new range of engines for its very first Panamera. In the base Panamera the power is 225 kW and in the Panamera Turbo power is up to 373kW. Porsche is also planning on a mid-range Panamera S that is expected to produce about 302kW in a V8. All these engines are going to be teamed up with a six-speed manual and the Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK) dual-transmission. Porsche also imparted that a hybrid engine is not far in the offing. Yes, that sure is something to look forward to.

 

Though not much is said about the Panamera’s interior we can expect that it’s as excellent as those in previous models. It also said that it has two rear seats that may fold down to accommodate more cargo.

 

It’s only going to be a few more months before the Porsche Panamera go on sale. It will make its word debut at the Geneva Motor Show one month before it goes on sale in the U.S. in April. No price has been quoted yet. Well, expect it to have a five or six-figure tag.

Mercedes-Benz Announces C180 BlueEfficiency Saloon

No one will doubt that Mercedes-Benz has changed so much since it was first created in 1886. But, all those changes were good. They only made every Mercedes-Benz vehicle better than the last. This brand specially improved on the technology it uses in auto manufacturing. In addition, the technological improvements made on the cars are impressive, catering to the needs and wants of every Mercedes-Benz enthusiast. The latest venture that this brand is into is green technology.

 

This company recently launched its own version of eco-friendly car. The C180 BlueEfficiency saloon is the environment-friendly car that Mercedes is proud to introduce. Mercedes seems to compete with other companies that have almost similar technology. Just check out BMW’s EfficientDynamics, Volkswagen’s BlueMotions models, SEAT’s Ecomotives, Ford’s ECOnetics and many others. Since these technologies are almost similar what would set the Mercedes C180 BlueEfficiency saloon apart from them all?

 

 

The Mercedes-Benz C180 BlueEfficiency is actually has a new type of engine. This engine bears the combined fuel devices that help reduce consumption by 11 percent and C02 emission by 18g/km. You may be amazed that the one responsible for helping you save much on fuel consumption is a 1.8-liter engine that generates 156bhp and 230 NM of torque.

 

Aside from the highly-efficient engine, the Mercedes-Benz C180 BlueEfficieny also comes with 195/60 low-rolling resistance tires. Improved aerodynamics is also evident in the car with the smaller mirrors. New LED arrows shaped indicator lens is also shown in the models that came out early this year. The power-assisted steering is also helpful for having an efficient energy management system.

 

Other great features of this vehicle include optional Media Interface fitted onto the Audio 50 or COMAND. Support for iPod or mp3 player is also present. In fact it can be played through the speaker system while being controlled by means of the car’s multifunction steering wheel. Bluetooth conectivity facilitates the safe use of the phone while driving. Safety features cannot be faulted as well. Impressive safety technology as standard, including Brake Assist, ESP&, Adaptive Brake and Pre-Safe, the preventive protection system developed by Mercedes-Benz. Occupant protection includes two-stage front airbags, a kneebag for the driver, front sidebags, windowbags and crash-responsive Neck-Pro head restraints.

 

The C180 Mercedes-Benz BlueEfficiency will be delivered in January 2009. It comes with a three-year unlimited warranty and up to 30-year anti-corrosion and European breakdown assistance package.

Ford Motor Co. Tops Safest Cars List

As I’ve always said, auto makers are taking a serious hand in car safety; which should only be the case as many of their customers want utmost protection on the road. These auto makers have no need to worry because their efforts to provide safer and more stable vehicles are also being recognized. At this point in time Ford Motor Co. is very glad for sure. This company received an accolade for producing the safest cars around.

 

Ford vehicles as well as those of the Volvo brand led the annual list of safest vehicles. What’s the basis for them being on top? Ford and Volvo are the brands that primarily adopted the anti-rollover technology. If you don’t know what this technology is all about, it is a safety system that helps lessen rollover accidents. This is very beneficial for drivers especially during icy weather. It provides better control to avoid sliding on icy roads when swerving to avoid obstructions. The electronic stability control (ESC) is now found in majority of vehicles that travel on the road. If implemented in all vehicles, this anti-rollover technology can save up to 10,000 lives per year. The government plans to make this technology mandatory on all vehicles by 2012. The ESC helps a lot because it discerns when the driver may lose control and when that happens it automatically applies brakes to the wheels.

 

Ford and Volvo have 16 vehicles included in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety list of the safest cars. Following them is Honda Motor Co. Also included in the list were Toyota a few Toyota cars, Volkswagen, and General Motors. Ford vehicles that made it to the list are the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan midsize cars with optional ESC, Ford F-150 pickup, Ford edge and Ford Flex midsize sport utility vehicle, Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, and the Mazda Tribute.

 

All of these vehicles included in the safest cars list have been tested and they were found to provide excellent protection during front, side and rear crash. To qualify for the award these vehicles are also equipped with the electronic stability control (ESC).

 

With this award people can now be more confident when it comes to purchasing cars since more and more of them are having improved safety features. More lives will be spared whenever road accidents occur.

Volkswagen Jetta TDI is the Green Car of the Year

New car models get unveiled every year. Splendid car shows are prepared every year to showcase the latest cars that various auto makers have to offer. Car shows is a time of rejoicing for auto enthusiasts. One of the car shows that a lot of car enthusiasts look forward to is the L.A. Auto Show. In the recently held 2008 L.A. Auto Show plenty of high-powered and superb-looking vehicles were unveiled. The latest trend in the automotive industry is green technology. Do you want to know which car was hailed as the greenest car for this year? You’ll be surprised; it’s the Volkswagen’s new Jetta TDI! It’s so unexpected right?

Whenever I browse for auto news, I always stumble on green cars by Toyota, Honda, and BMW; but not Volkswagen. So, it’s really a big surprise that their Jetta TDI is named 2009 Green Car of the Year. It triumphed over two hybrids and a diesel car. These finalists were the BMW 335d, Ford Fusion hybrid, and the Smart Fortwo hybrid.

I’m sure you’re as curious as me to know what features convinced folks over at the L.A. Auto Show to make it the Green Car of the Year. The VW Jetta TDI is a sporty diesel-powered sedan. It has a 2.0-liter common rail turbocharged oil burner that produces 140 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque. With this kind of power, the Jetta TDI seems like a perfect candidate for towing. With a new engine, this car will gladly take you anywhere you want to go. It’s partnered with either a six-speed stick or six-speed DSG. But on top of these superb capabilities, what mattered most to the judges is the fact that it produces cleaner and more environment-friendly emissions.

Ron Cogan, editor and publisher of Green Car Journal, the sponsor of the said award said, “It breaks new ground in the field of clean diesel”. He was impressed by the Jetta’s “satisfying driving experience” because of its low emissions.

It’s good that “green” or environment-friendly cars are gaining support. As Ron Cogan said, “Green cars represent the future of the industry.”

2009 Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder Revealed at the L.A. Auto Show

I can imagine that yesterday was a busy day for Los Angeles people. Car enthusiasts in particular had a field day I’m sure with the L.A. Auto Show going on. One of the cars that took center stage was a Lamborghini. Care to take a guess which model? It’s no other than the Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder!

 

 

What was unveiled at yesterday’s L.A. Auto show is another amazing display of craftsmanship. The new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is made of fascinating design, inside and out. Any bystander will appreciate the clean lines and contours of the panels composing the exterior ornamentation. A noticeable factor in this car is the low stance that adds to its aerodynamic capability. Among the features highlighting the exterior are the headlights and bi-xenon lamps where 15 LEDS arranged in Y shape run underneath them.  It also sports revamped rear end where rear lights, air cooling vents, bumper and diffuser are installed. The rear diffuser in particular has been designed to provide more downforce for better road performance.

 

This new Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is built with enhanced exhaust system. Protruding at the end of the vehicle is four chrome-plated tail pipes. The brakes ahs been modified as well. The standard brake is made up of 14.4-inch vented discs with eight-piston Brembo calipers in front and four-piston calipers at the rear. Aside from these, Lamborghini also provides carbon-ceramic brake package consisting of monster 15.0-in discs up front and 14.0-in discs at the rear.

Now, the interior will not fall short of your expectations. Everything about the interior features exudes luxurious individuality and top-notch workmanship. Within it are sports seats wrapped in leather or Alcantara upholstery. The low-mounted seats provide firm hold and support. There’s also the wide middle console that houses the standard audio and multimedia entertainment system and climate control. The console’s design makes the interior look even more dynamic and sporty. Different colors and stitching are used for the interior to give it contrasting look and feel.

 

The superbly stylish exterior and interior are complemented by dynamic performance coming from the 5.2-liter engine that generates 552-horsepower and 398-lbs-ft of torque. Helping it is the Lambo’s reprogrammed e.gear six-speed transmission. Thanks to this engine, the new Lamborghini Gallardo LP560-4 Spyder is able to spring from 0-62 mph in just 40 seconds. In just 13.1 seconds it can reach its maximum speed of 201 mph. This kind of speed will make you feel like you’re already flying along the highways.

 

The company has big expectations regarding its latest release. Here’s a statement made by Automobili Lamborghini President and CEO, Stephan Winkelmann, “The LP560-4 is the best example of the Gallardo to date and will be a great contribution to Lamborghini’s future success. The entirely new LP560-4 Spyder adds another dimension to the Gallardo’s lineage with extreme design language and class-leading performance.

2009 Nissan Cube Unveiled!

Japan’s Nissan is really thinking out of the box! Instead of crossovers, sedans, or pickup trucks, the company is venturing into a car design that’s unusual. Instead of streamlined and sleekly contoured vehicles Nissan created the Nissan Cube. Unveiled in today’s L.A. Auto Show is the 2009 Nissan Cube, second-generation. This latest version is tagged by Nissan as the biggest and best version so far. It seems like it’s built with new and advanced features that will make road trips even better than before.

I’m sure you’re dying to know what features are present in this revamped Cube. For one thing, it’s curvier. Though, you might notice that its’ doors and windows vary somewhat in their size. On top of that it’s more spacious as it can accommodate up to five passengers. Inside it is a three-passenger rear bench, raised “theater-style” that slides six inches forward and back. These seats also recline for added comfort when driving long distances. Aside from the comfortable seating arrangement, the Nissan Cube is also loaded with unique storage, especially for MP3 players, cell phones, and cup holders. But the most amazing highlight in the Cube is the “Water Drop.” It’s a circular design made on the cup holders, roof liner, and the climate control buttons.

Nissan ensured convenience and safety of the owner by installing power windows with driver’s side one-touch auto down feature, Remote Keyless Entry System, power door locks with auto-locking feature, variable intermittent windshield wipers and intermittent rear window wiper. Optional features include Bluetooth, proximity key with push button ignition, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six speakers, iPod interface, XM satellite radio, and rear sonar system.

A 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine that produces 122-horsepower and 127-lb-ft of torque will be the standard in the new Nissan Cube. There are two options for its transmission – a six-speed manual and Nissan’s Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission). Nissan Cube will come in three trims – base 1.8, mid-range 1.8 S, and top level 1.8 SL   – when it goes for sale in the U.S. in the spring.

Although the 2009 Nissan Cube has been unveiled already, the company did not disclose the price yet. Hopefully it will just be within consumer’s easy reach!