When it comes to choices for sports car, one of the brands that can deliver superb design is Lamborghini. This brand has great models to choose from. If you are planning to buy a sedan that looks like a sports car in the future, keep in mind the Lamborghini Estoque. This one is the most recent concept car unveiled by the company on the eve of the 2008 Paris Auto Show. This latest design is a 4-door, 4-seater supersaloon that’s sure to amaze anyone. A car with a 4-door design is the latest trend especially in new markets in Russia and in the east, and Lamborghini is capitalizing on this inclination in selling the Estoque.  Even though this particular model is equipped with four doors, there can be no doubt about it being a Lamborghini.

This Lamborghini Estoque is a very streamlined piece of work. It is 154.7-inches long, 78.4-inches wide, and 53.2-icnhes low. The Lamborghini mark is evident in its overall design starting from the four-door aluminum body, wedge-shape front end, and tautly drawn surfacing.  All of these are installed on durable but lightweight aluminum space frame. Right below it features huge 23-inch wheels equipped with 295/30ZR23 Pirelli Zero Rosso tires.

However, it’s not merely show for the Lamborghini Estoque concept. It is also capable of revving up excellent road performance since it is equipped with 5.2-liter V10 engine. At an estimate, this engine is expected to provide the car with speed up to 100 km/h at4.5 second start-up. In the meantime this is the only engine available, but if ever this goes into production the company is also planning to provide more practical engine choices like a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 or a 4.8-liter V8 diesel engine.

The Lamborghini Estoque is definitely something new in the Lamborghini lineup. If I’m not mistaken, this is the first model to come in a 4-door design. Because of this, the company is still gauging the public’s reaction before it commits it to production. This car will likely come with a price tag of $230,000, but don’t expect it to be in stores by Christmas.

By the way, its name is also the name of bullfighter’s sword which is also estoque. 

Just by observing the moms and dads out there one can deduce that it is not easy being a parent. As a parent you have to provide the kids with everything they need from materials things to non-material things. This is the cycle that must be done from babyhood until the kids come to the right age. But when the kids grow older managing them becomes even more difficult since they already have a mind of their own. One of parents’ utmost concerns when their kids come to the right age is when they already want to have their own car to drive. With car accidents happening almost everyday, it is natural for parents to be concerned about their children’s safety, especially if their kid has a great liking for speed which can lead to reckless driving. Ford understands this situation that is why it is giving parents more control over their children’s driving habits through the newly developed MyKey.

Ford’s MyKey is a programmable ignition key that can keep track of a teenager’s driving habit. Parents can observe the habit of their children, thus be able to make the appropriate action. Through MyKey, the car’s speed can be programmed only up to 80mph. And nope, the car cannot run ay more than that specified speed. The sound system can only be tuned up to 44 percent of the maximum radio volume. In addition, no sound would come out at all if the occupants are not wearing seatbelts. However, information gathered by MyKey will not be reported in real time, MyKey system will only keep data of the total miles traveled by any driver with his individual key.

MyKey is a very innovative idea. With the staggering statistics in car accidents that teens are involved in, any new idea that would alleviate such incidents is certainly very welcome. Parents may be very happy about this new device, but the teenagers? Well, not so much. In an initial test done, 67% said they don’t want MyKey, but after a while it dropped to 36% along with certain conditions. Also in a survey done, 75% of parents liked the speed and audio limits that can be provided by MyKey.

By 2010, MyKey will come as a free standard feature in the Ford Focus model, but in the long run the company also hopes to integrate it in its other divisions, Lincoln and Mercury.

In this day and age of economic crisis, do you think buying a new car is practical? Even though it is not practical for a lot of people, they are still forced to buy one out of necessity. Those who live in far flung places where public transport is hard to come by would rather choose to bust out their pockets rather than be without any means of transport. I’m sure some of you readers out there would agree with me on this.

At present, it is not only the commuters who are experiencing the brunt of the present economic crisis. Carmakers are also becoming desperate to boost up their sales. For some of them it’s either sell more or fold. Take for example Toyota. It is now offering 0% interest rate on some of their vehicles, just to attract more buyers.  That’s how dire the automobile industry has become. As a potential customer, as I’m sure you’ll be buying a new car in the near future, how can you avail be secure in availing of a new car?

If you are going to avail of a car today Peter Valdes-Dapena of CNNMoney.com has some tips for you: 

1. Check Your Credit Rating

            - Making credit checks must be done at least once a year. For making this check, be sure to go to a reputable credit reporting agency like Equifax Experian, or TransUnion. Check on the accuracy of the results. If the result is all positive, then there’s shouldn’t be any problem.

            - You must also determine just how much you can afford. Consulting online sites that provide estimates on monthly payments would be a big help as this will give the general idea before you go to a car store.  You will be able to choose a better deal that will not let you have longer loan period.

2. Start Shopping

            - This shopping refers to finding a car loan. According to David Thomas of Cars.com, “Always check with a different financing institution before you go into a dealer.” You can see your local credit union or even apply to your own bank for a car loan if it is offering such service.

 3. Closing the Deal

            - Some car dealers also offer car financing so there’s a chance you’ll no longer use the loan you arranged. “Car dealers often make little money on the actual sale of the new car. The money they get for arranging financing has become an important part of their revenue stream. The biggest factor in how much you’ll pay for financing is how much you borrow. To minimize the principle, take advantage of all the discounts out there, as well as the dealers’ willingness to negotiate, to get the best price you can.”

Well, these tips should help you when you go shopping for a new car anytime soon.

Is the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster your dream car? It wouldn’t be surprising if it is the car you’ve been dying to have. Aside from being one of the cars of well-known stars, the SLR McLaren Roadster is also equipped with great features that make it outstanding to drive on the road. But do you know that this model is already topped by another model from Mercedes? The company recently introduced the new SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S that can give its predecessor a run for its money. Although they share some similar features, the new 722 S still offers more advantage.

The SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S gets its power from a supercharged 5.5 liter V8. This engine is capable of producing an impressive 478kW and 820 Newton meters of torque. It is even capable of running from 0 to 100 kilometers per hour in just 3.7 seconds and 200 kilometers per hour in 10.6 seconds. Amazing isn’t it? This is because of the five-speed automatic transmission that has been made to yield high torque. And even though the car is capable of such high performance, its stability is always assured thanks to the stiffer suspension and improved handling dynamics. The lightweight aluminum wheels also help in the cabriolet’s stability and control.

An aerodynamic design also makes this SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S a superb vehicle to drive on the highways. One of the things that will primarily be about this vehicle is the weave structure of the roof material that reflects a carbon-fibre look. This roof design helps the new cabriolet achieve a top speed of 335 kilometers per hour. Some of its other aerodynamic features include an airbrake, enclosed underbody and a diffuser in the rear bumper. An airsplitter is also present at the front portion and small wheel spoilers are found in the rear axle. The whole make up of this new SLR McLaren is made completely of carbon-fibre materials which are known to be lightweight yet durable.

Its other features include carbon-fibre crash structures, steel-reinforced A-pillars and two fixed rollover bars. Adaptive airbags, belt tensioner, knee and sidebags, and tyre pressure monitoring system are also present in the new Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren Roadster 722 S.

Only a limited number of 722 S will be released to the market. Only 150 persons will have the privilege of owning and driving this model come 2009. 

Really, we all know that BMW is one of the innovators in the automotive industry. This automobile maker expects to wow us once again with its new entry-level SUV. Yup, this sports utility vehicle is aimed for customers who want something that can directly compete with the Ford Kuga, Volkswagen Tiguan, and Nissan Oashqai when these particular models get on sale in 2010. It’s still a good six months before the BMW X1 gets officially launched maybe that is why the company touts this SUV as a concept car. 

To some, the BMW X1 might be just another sports utility vehicle to be spent on. It takes some real knowledge to have a full appreciation of what this BMW X1 is all about and what makes it a great vehicle to travel in. So, let’s take a look at what comprises this concept car. However, this article might not be enough for you to become convinced whether the BMW X1 is a great vehicle or not. Since it is still several months before the official launch, not all of its specifications are revealed together with the few photos leaked on the internet.

According to some reports, the BMW X1 is not your typical SUV; rather, it is “crossover” vehicle. It has features that look like that of a compact sporting estate and that of an off-roader. This vehicle is made with on-road performance in mind that is why it employs mechanical devices that is similar to BMW’s X3 model. A good mechanical device is definitely a must for a big vehicle. BMW X1 is 4475mm long, 1789mm wide, and 1535mm high. And take note, it also has big wheels to complement its size. Certainly, the BMW X1’s appearance will be a commanding one on the road.

BMW X1 will come in different models when it gets launched in the United Kingdom. But, all of them will come with the “xDrive” system. The models will have different engine configurations as well. The xDrive20i will have 2.0-liter petrol unit capable of producing 170bhp; the xDrive20d will have a 2.0-liter common-rail diesel that can produce 177bhp. There will also likely be an xDrive18i and xDrive18d models.

BMW is optimistic about the public’s reception to its new model. In fact, the BMw X1 will have a heftier price that BMW’s 3-series Touring. The BMW X1 will be £1500 more expensive than the mentioned series.

Have you seen an Alfa Romeo cruising down the road? As for me, I’m not really sure that is why I’m trying hard to imagine how the new Alfa Romeo Brera TI will fare on the highways. This new model is a very handsome-looking car that will initially be shown off at the Paris Motor Show. Those who are lucky enough to attend this event will have a feast in the new vehicles models that will be shown there, including the Alfa Romeo Brera TI. This new model is a different model to the Alfa Brera. See the TI designation at the end? That stands for Turismo Internazionale, the name that is only given to its best vehicles. So, next time you hear this designation you don’t need to doubt the car’s excellence.

So, let’s get to know this Alfa Romeo Brera TI a little better. There are several things that set the TI model from its predecessor. Engineers at the Alfa Romeo factories made lots of modifications on the exterior and interior parts of the vehicle. We can get to know them all if we take enumerate them.

Suspension – The springs and dampers are made stiffer to make sure that it will have excellent control on the 19-inch tires. In addition to that, the tires are now equipped with 8C Competizione-inspired alloy rims to ensure fast cooling of the brakes. 

Braking System - Features large brake discs and Brembo red one-piece front calipers having radial attachment.

Engine - Alfa Romeo Brera TI operates on a 2.2JTS engine that can produce up to 185 bhp. If you haven’t heard of the JTS engine, it is a unit made of aluminum and is capable of direct fuel injection. This engine works with a Selespeed sequential box for an even better performance.

Interior – Features high-containment anatomical seats trimmed soft leather and finished with top-stitching and a metal plate bearing with a bold TI logo. The dashboard and steering wheel panel are made in dark brushed aluminum or carbon fibre. You will also see a lot of perforated leather in the steering wheel grip and gear knob.

Other great features of the Alfa Romeo Brera TI are the VDC stability system and dual climate control system. There are also a few other extra options like radio navigation system, xenon headlights, sky window, adjustable door mirrors, and sensor pack.

Well, these are the Alfa Romeo Brera TI’s highlights. So, now do you agree that it is a superb sports car indeed?   

If you want to have a unique car, go for the Aston Martin. This carmaker is able to come up with some of the best cars in the market because of its ability to combine three important elements in one car. Power, beauty, and soul are the three qualities that you can have if you opt for an Aston Martin. Well, only a few are lucky enough to have these qualities since Aston Martins cost much more than other cars.

Now, to be one of the lucky people to own power, beauty, and soul in one car think about the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage. Even by just looking at its appearance you will know that it is a sports car in every sense. The exterior is perfectly proportioned with long, low hood line all the while the front and the rear has minimized overhangs for a more streamlined look. This two-seater sports car displays a subtle aggressive appearance that makes it look like its ready to pounce on its prey at any minute. It is mostly made up of aluminum, magnesium alloy, and composite and steel body. The interior is elegant and comfortable for short and long distance travels.

The 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is not all show. It is capable of superb road performance that will leave you breathless. It is equipped with a remarkable engine that epitomizes engineering excellence. The V8 Vantage has a 4.7-liter V8 engine that can rev up a maximum power of 420 bhp and 346 lb-ft of torque.  Smooth drive is expected since it is installed with independent double wishbone, coil springs, anti-roll bar, and monotube dampers. All these under-the-hood features enable the V8 vantage to give responsive handling and control.

Safety is also an important aspect that Aston Martin did not leave out in the V8 Vantage. The all-alloy structure makes the whole vehicle strong. Deformable front and rear crumple zones are also provided to protect the occupants in case of a crash. Side impact protection is also installed along the roof pillars, sills, door beams, and dashboard to effectively protect both the driver and passenger.

No doubt, the 2009 Aston Martin V8 Vantage is a sports car that anyone can be proud of. Its aggressive stance, elegant interior and superb performance will sure elicit envy from anyone who sees you parking it in your garage.

A lot of people are already complaining about the unpredictable cost of oil in the world market. All people are affected by the rise of oil prices because when there is an oil price hike other commodities also increase in price. See it is a chain reaction. Even the automobile makers around the world are feeling the effects of the continuing oil price hike, and some of them are experiencing recession in their sales. It’s a natural occurrence because not many people will buy a car at this point in time when oil price is very high. For this reason, many carmakers are developing new vehicles that will run on alterative energy sources other than gasoline.

Chevrolet is one of the carmakers that ventured in producing cars that run on alternative energy sources. The Chevy Volt is the much-hyped about electric vehicle from this company. This vehicle runs purely on electricity so you’ll be driving gas-free if you own this car. This is a very environment-friendly car that will run mainly on lithium-ion battery. Through the batteries included on board is expected to power up the car for up to 40 miles or 64 kilometers. This is the estimated distance that an average driver in America travels everyday.

General Motors, the producer of this electric car, recently unveiled the very first model of the Chevy Volt. Now, we can have a look at the real deal behind this vehicle. T is really run by a 16-kWh lithium-ion battery that can generate as much as 150 of horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. With these under-the-hood features the Chevy Volt is capable of speeding up to 100 miles per hour. As said before the battery will only run up to 40 miles and after that you need to recharge it. The good thing about this is that you can plug it into a standard household 120v outlet. However, there’s a downside. It takes up to eight hours to fully recharge the battery. If you plug it in a 240v outlet the charge time will be shortened to three hours.

This new electric car will only be able to accommodate four passengers. These occupants will enjoy two informational displays, touch sensitive infotainments center with shifter. A navigation system with onboard hard drive for maps and music storage comes as an option in the Chevy Volt. 

The Chevy Volt’s production is expected to begin late in 2010 in the United States. It’s expected that this electric car will be more expensive than other hybrid cars.

A few weeks back there was already a post made about the Renault Megane. That post was made right after the Megane’s photos were leaked to the internet. That model was the 5–door hatchback model that is meant to be a family car. The 5-door model is a stylish-looking vehicle that seems to be perfect for family use. Just as I was browsing the Internet I came across this news that Renault will be unveiling the 2009 Megane Coupe pretty soon. The EU patent office revealed some photos of the Megane Coupe. If you compare the 5-door model to this new Coupe you’ll see that the Coupe is a sleeker version of the former. The big difference can be see in the lower and raked back roof. The back portion is also smoothly sloped. If you judge it by its aerodynamic appearance you will see that it promises speed and excellent road performance.

I’m not sure if speed maniacs out there will be satisfied with the kind of engine that the Megane Coupe has. Well, the Coupe has a similar engine with the 5-door model. There are several kinds to choose from: 1.6L engine that can generate up 100 and 110 horsepower and 2.0L motor pumping 140 horsepower. There are also two new turbocharged units – the 1.4L TCe that can generate up to 130 HP and the 2.0-liter TCe with 180 HP.  So far those are the details provided about this upcoming model. Its maker has yet to unveil the specifications regarding the suspension, safety, and other interior features. But regarding the interior I’m pretty sure that it will have lush seat sand advanced features to make each drive enjoyable and comfortable.

The Renault Megane Coupe is indeed a sleek vehicle. Owning one would be a great thing. However, it’s not sure if this model will ever make it outside Europe. If that is the thing, it’s just too bad for the rest of the world no Renault for you.

Do you or have you owned a Renault before? Based on the specs provided how would it fare when compared to this 2009 Renault Coupe?

What comes to your mind when you hear about the Volkswagen brand? I’m sure there’s only one thing in your head – the Beetle. Well, this brand really made its name because thanks to this tiny econocar that was manufactured from 1938 until 2003. Because of its economical quality the Beetle was readily adopted by a lot of consumers who wanted to save on their finances. The Beetle’s release somehow coincided with the Second World War. People during that time were really looking for a car that would help them economize on their budget, which probably helped in the Beetle’s popularity.

Little by little Volkswagen expanded its interest from hatchbacks to other designs. But now, Volkswagen is once again ready to venture to other styles of vehicles. At the upcoming 62^nd IAA Commercial Vehicles Show on September 23 to be held in Hanover, Volkswagen will be unveiling its very first pickup tuck concept. It’s only just days before the said event, yet pictures and some details of the Volkswagen Concept Pickup have already hit the internet. When mass production commences, this pickup truck concept will be known as the Robust. When you hear the name and you look at the vehicle, you will immediately see the connection.

Volkswagen Robust really lives up to its name as it boasts a muscular exterior. The first thing you will notice on this four-door short-bed pickup truck is its enormous grille and low air dam that dominates the whole fascia. Huge bars also embellish the truck bed that if you want to load huge stuffs support is already provided. When you look down you will also notice the big wheels that more to its tough appearance. Its exterior makes the Volkswagen robust look like a utility vehicle, but if you look inside the interior it’ not that utilitarian. It’s furnished with great features like the touch-screen navigation system, built-in compass, and pitch indicator. It is also said that this new vehicle will be integrated with rescue tools and equipment. So far these are the only details that have been leaked about this concept pickup truck from Volkswagen.    

The Robust is another first from Volkswagen. We have to wait for the September 23 before we can get a full impression of this concept pickup truck. Being new to pickup truck production, I think Volkswagen still has a long way to go before it can produce superb pickups like the Ford F150. Well, that’s only my own opinions. What’s your thoughts on this?