2011 MINI Cooper Clubman

2011 MINI Cooper Clubman


For 2011, the range Mini Cooper Clubman models get a slight increase in power output, changed direction to accelerate strongly reduced torque steer, within minor cosmetic and out, optional adaptive headlights, redesigned radio controls, the standard HD and satellite radio and added soundproofing.


With all the personality and kitsch Peppy performance, the Mini Cooper is known, it has some drawbacks, lack of inclusiveness of them first. In 2011, the Mini Cooper Clubman solves this problem by virtue of its larger - about 10 inches longer overall, translating to about 2.5 inches of much needed legroom in the rear and cargo capacity of about 50 percent more. These are not huge gains, but they help bring a little practice, welcome to the formula of Cooper.

The Clubman comes with the same transmission choices, and standard and optional features, which shows that the smallest mini enjoys. From the base model due to the most entertaining and S John Cooper Works, there should be a Clubman to suit most budgets and tastes. It also causes a bit like the brothers shorter wheelbase, with a similar acceleration, maneuverability and fuel economy. About the only drawback is its specific Clubman profile slightly bulky, making it look like a Ford Flex sitting too long in the dryer.

It should be noted that the Clubman also inherits some of the less desirable traits the standard Mini. Even with increased legroom in the rear, even adults will feel cramped. A compromise for handling the car Spry is a little harsh ride quality (stick with smaller wheels, unless you are a buyer of mind performance). There is also a tendency for the reasonable price to soar as the opportunities are stacked.

While the Clubman is a niche offering, and that's especially true this year. There are a variety of fun to drive cars that offer more features and usually cheaper prices, including Ford Fiesta, Mazda 3, VW Golf / GTI and Volvo C30. There are also Mini Countryman in years, which is the new Mini small crossover SUV, the Mini gives you experience, but with a much more useful to have four doors. But for a car with a lot of personality and feel decent daily, the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman hard to beat.

Body styles, trim levels and options

2011 Mini Cooper Clubman has four seats, two doors, the passenger and back to open the back door. Cooper's place on a regular basis behind the product division is a couple of doors swing outward. There are three trim levels available: base Cooper and the sportier Cooper S John Cooper Works of the most effective.

Base Cooper comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, power accessories, air conditioning, cruise control, leather upholstery, keyless entry, multi-colored mood lighting, tilt and telescopic leather-wrapped multifunction steering wheel, trip computer board and six speaker stereo with CD player, HD and satellite navigation and an additional audio jacks.

The Cooper S adds a more powerful engine, 16-inch wheels, run-flat tires, fog lights, dual exhaust, firmer suspension tuning, sport seats and alloy pedals. Go to John Cooper Works edition and you will have more power, 17-inch wheels, Brembo brakes and upholstery fabrics. A limited slip differential and a firmer suspension can be equipped with the S and John Cooper Works.

The options are numerous and arranged in several packages with most of the features available on the card. The main features include optional adaptive xenon, sunroof a double strand, automatic climate control, heated front seats, keyless entry / ignition, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound system, Bluetooth and iPod interface. Other options include different wheels, rear parking sensors, fabric or leather upholstery, navigation system and a number of interior details and materials. As was the case from the beginning of the Cooper, a host of dealer-installed features are also available.

Propulsion and Performance

The base Cooper Clubman is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 that produces 121 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque. The Cooper S raises the bar considerably, packing a turbocharged version of the base four-cylinder that generates 181 horsepower Cooper strong 177 lb-ft of torque. John Cooper Works Package 208 hp and 192 lb.-ft. of torque (207 Nm at full capacity, thanks to a turbo function 'overboost'). The regular Cooper and Cooper S comes standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control manual is optional. The JCW can be had with the manual six-speed.

Mini Clubman with manual transmission estimated based acceleration from zero to 60 mph 8.9 seconds (10.2 seconds automatic). S Clubman is noticeably faster, reaching 60 mph 6.8 seconds (7.1 auto), while the JCW is expected to need only 6.5 seconds. With a manual transmission, the base Clubman to achieve an impressive EPA estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. Selecting the automatic result of 27/36/30 mpg. S is rated at 27/36/30 mpg for the automatic updates, and 26/34/29, while the John Cooper Works version of the lists 25/33/28.

Security

2011 Mini Cooper Clubman comes standard with antilock disc brakes, front seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and stability control. Brake test recently Clubman S 60 mph 112 feet stopped.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Mini Cooper Clubman advantage more legroom is the standard in the rear seats - as she did some. If you have already taken a trip in the back seat of a regular Mini, you know what we mean. The access door to the passenger side Clubman is also climbing in and out of the back seat a much more easy. However, it is still very comfortable there, especially for larger than average adults. Rear doors open doubles and there is a charge of more than 50 percent larger than the standard Cooper, but with only 9.2 cubic feet of capacity behind the rear seat is not exactly cavernous. Flip the rear seats, however, the winery and is becoming a useful 32.8 cu.

Like the regular Cooper, the Clubman has an elegant, retro inspired the installation of control. One of our major complaints about the previous Mini was oddly placed buttons control the stereo. Fortunately, this has been rectified with a bit more conventional layout in 2011.

Guide

Despite being longer than the regular Mini, there is still the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman offers a comparable level of driving pleasure. Driver entries are met with immediate results and a lot of feedback through the seats, steering wheel and pedals. The electric power steering makes low speed maneuvers effortlessly, while pressing the sport (standard on all Clubman) strengthens the leadership and sharpens throttle response. For some, however, the suspension a bit stiff jarring, especially the John Cooper Works and the Cooper S model with the optional sport suspension.

In addition, Clubman is more sporty, the power of the engine is surprisingly optimistic, although the base 1.6-liter four-cylinder. Close relationship is a factor often change manual transmission, but the power is perfectly acceptable part of society. Cooper S with John Cooper Works models are likely to bring a smile to drivers thrilled with the turbo offers a generous and help out of steam with just a hint of lag. Regardless of what you decide to Clubman, prepare for some fun.

Price MSRP of $ 21,100

2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo

In 2011, the BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo earns all-wheel-drive version ("xDrive") and 535i trim level.

In the animal kingdom, some animals can see to ask how the animal was born in the first place. Consider the platypus, for example, or double-hump camel. Looking to 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo, it is possible that the same questions: What is it? Who is it?

Its sloping fastback roofline, the 5 Series Gran Turismo is not really a car (no load-friendly, the square-off cap) or SUV (missing a lot of passenger and load capacity). One could say that is a hybrid of the two. Maybe it's just a large luxury sedan. We imagine the BMW hopes to attract a sports luxury car owners looking for something sporty but with a load capacity.

Scanning the table of specifications will not tell you much about the GT 5 lines. The Gran Turismo is about 2 inches taller than the 5 Series sedan, but 4 inches lower than an X5 SUV. Even the name Bimmer is a problem. This is known as the "Series 5" GT, but actually consume more of the seven components of the series of chassis and offers a spacious cabin that's flagship sedan. Unfortunately, the GT offers the path of the 7 Series luxury sedan precision handling or 5 Series.

5 Series Gran Turismo for the dual-mode sedan - its character - it's pretty cool, though. You can open only the bottom (similar to the tailgate of the hatchback), or you can lift the whole tailgate up. Fold the split rear seats, and there is 60 cubic feet of cargo space than, less than most compact crossover, but four times the trunk space 5 Series Sedan. Choose a twin-turbo inline-6 ​​turbo V8 and provide plenty of performance, while the option of four-wheel drive (xDrive) provides a constant position of inclement weather.

For 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a niche for themselves, at least until the beginning like Audi A7 coming year. If that niche shows popular Gran Turismo will certainly work well. But for most people, you're better off with conventional vehicles such as the Audi A6 Avant Wagon and Cadillac CTS Sport or crossover SUV with the Acura MDX or BMW X5 own.

Body styles, trim levels and options

The 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo is a luxury saloon with seating for five years with a large hatch style fastback rear can be opened as a safety standard or a large gate. It is available in the 535i and 550i models, trim levels for the two engine options.

Standard features on the 535i include alloy wheels 18-inch, adaptive xenon headlights, heated mirrors, a panoramic sunroof, front and rear sensor parking, windshield wipers, wood interior trim, leather upholstery, accessories at full power, a power tilt and telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, 10-power front seats, memory settings for driver and sliding and reclining rear seats. Also standard is Bluetooth, BMW iDrive electronic interface and audio system with 12 speakers and a CD/MP3 audio extra. In addition to upgrading the V8 550i adds navigation with voice recognition and real-time traffic and auto-dimming mirrors.

Most options are grouped in Gran Turismo packages. Sport Package adds 19-inch wheels or alloy wheels with 20-inch performance tires (for 550i only), front seats and a steering wheel multicontour sport. The dynamic handling package adds an adaptive suspension. Driver assistance package, you get a blind spot monitoring, and automatic way Departure Warning beam. Premium Sound Package adds a 16-speaker surround sound and USB / iPod integration. The Convenience Package adds a power liftgate, soft closing doors and keyless ignition / entry.

There are also plenty of seats for upgrades. Cold climate package to keep passengers comfortable and heated front and rear seats heated steering wheel. Active Ventilation Package adds heated seats, ventilated seats, multi-adjustable seats, while the rear package includes luxurious stay heated and ventilated rear seats, four-zone climate control and rear sunshades, and a window. In addition, this package will replace the center rear seat, and a center console makes the permanent four-seater GT.

Stand-alone options include most of the points mentioned above, as well as active four-wheel steering, a head-up display, adaptive cruise control, navigation 535i, a reversing camera, side and top-view camera , advanced Bluetooth phone connectivity, a ski bag, satellite radio, a rear seat DVD entertainment system and night vision with pedestrian detection.

Engines and performance

2011 BMW 535i Gran Turismo for the turbo 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine that makes 300 hp and 300 pound-feet of torque. Bumps on the 550th with 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 to crank out 400 hp and 450 Nm of torque. Eight-speed automatic with manual shift control is only available transmission. The rear-wheel drive is standard, but buyers can choose the xDrive all-wheel drive models.

In performance tests , has accelerated a 550i GT from zero to 60 km / h on a new 5.4 seconds. We expect the 535i to the track, with about one second. The EPA estimates fuel economy impressive 535i mpg city/30 mpg highway 20 and 24 mpg in combined driving. The 550i is rated at 15/22/18 mpg. Expect xDrive models of net less than 1 or 2 mpg.

Security

Standard safety features for 2011 BMW 5-Series includes antilock disc brakes, GT, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, curtain airbags and active front headrests in the middle. Brakes will also fade compensation, the Hill-Hold and brake drying operations. The optional blind spot detection, head-up display, lane departure warning, automatic high beam lights, side mirrors and cameras and night vision with pedestrian detection are also available.
In brake tests, a 550i GT slowed from 60 mph to zero in 112 feet, an impressive result for a vehicle at the top of the scale at over £ 4,800.

Interior Design and Special Features

Cabin 5-Series GT is up to the 7-series of standards with almost all surfaces adorn soft leather, wood trim and a rich texture of plastic. Last generation of the BMW (and improved) iDrive interface is a standard feature, simplifying the monitoring of navigation and entertainment.

The front seats adjust easily to more people and offer endless seat adjustments, while the rear are just as comfortable and can be an option with most of the same amenities as the facades.

GT hatchback offers distinctive features beyond simple style flourish. The access door double consists of two sections which allows traditional opening trunklike or full bloom. The small section of the rod can hold up to 15 cubic feet and allows for faster reading. A removable rear parcel shelf creates a significant partition between the trunk and the cab and fits under the trunk floor when not in use. With the rear seats folded and stowed the tablet, GT can handle much heavier loads of up to 60 cubic feet.

Driving Impressions

Road 2011 BMW 5 Series Gran Turismo Series narrower than the around-7, which is based on. Ruts and holes in the cab forward more freely, but also adds a strong emotional connection with the road. Turbo V8 pushes hard, and eight-speed automatic seems well matched to the engine, which offers a fast, moves almost seamlessly while driving conservatively. The control is well weighted, and illumines a speed considerably slower. When combined with the optional four-wheel active steering, the GT feels much more maneuverable, thanks to a car turning radius smaller.

Around the city, the 5 Series GT remains calm and serene, isolating passengers from the harshness of the world, all 5 series. Wind noise and road go unnoticed. Is inserted into the winding mountain passes, the GT feels secure and agile. It takes close to their limits, however, the height and weight more additional way to contribute to a more pronounced roll a 5 Series sedan or 7 years, although the advanced suspension components and electronic aids to compensate sufficiently to please all but the most demanding of drivers.

Price MSRP from $56,500

2011 Jeep Compass Review

2011 Jeep Compass Review

We must give credit to the Jeep to try harder this year. Almost all the improvements in the 2011 Jeep Compass is the question of where we have previously griped. The interior plastic-fantastic? Jeep has added soft-touch materials in the cabin. Not worthy of a Jeep badge? Now there's an off-road package with the lowest leverage. To-cute style? Updated record of the year contains an end before the Grand Cherokee style flourishes and additional chrome to make it look more upscale.

Meanwhile, Compass still lacks refinement, it is necessary to keep pace with other vehicles in this category most popular crossover utility vehicles. Developed from the platform as the Dodge Caliber, Dodge Patriot (and the Mitsubishi Outlander sport as well), Compass has a 2.4 liter four-cylinder to his order, as all vehicles in this category. But it also has a continuously variable transmission (CVT) of its own, and this choice makes the engine noisy and rude even seems that boasts both better acceleration and better fuel economy.

While the new steering wheel, door trim and soft-touch visual presentation will greatly improve Compass interior stand out from its competitors, the Jeep is all about style, not necessarily comfort. Visibility is always an issue with small windows Compass ", while the seats are very comfortable.

However, the recalibration of the compass 4WD vehicle makes sense for us. Become the main attributes of utility, and the movement instead of carlike comfort and refinement, and this is responsible for not only the image but also the nature of the Jeep Compass.

Hiking, camping and other outdoor sports enthusiasts should know that the compass has no advantage over its rivals thanks to the new available off-road package, which includes all the hardware necessary to earn Jeep "Trail Rated" moniker. Aggressive off-road tires, low-range transfer tires and skid plates offer a unique kind of strong features are seen elsewhere in this segment of the soft road.

While off-road references give the Jeep Compass 2011 some authenticity, it is fair to say that this vehicle is still struggling to find its identity. As a passenger fee that is affordable, fuel efficient and easy to drive, but not completely refined. As an all-terrain utility vehicle, have the drive and motor docile, but not as rugged as a Jeep Liberty. Alternatives include the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sportage, Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, Nissan Rogue, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4.

Body styles, trim levels and options

In 2011 Jeep Compass is a five-passenger compact SUV available in base and Limited trim levels.

Standard equipment on the base of the compass includes alloy wheels, 17 inches, roof rails, fog lights, heated mirrors, air conditioning, power accessories, cruise control, tilt steering and a stereo with four speakers with CD player and auxiliary input jack. The Latitude package adds heated front seats, driver seat height adjustment, a front passenger fold-flat safety, reclining rear seats, a 115-volt auxiliary power point and a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls.

Limited includes all the previous features and adds 18-inch alloy wheels, exterior chrome inserts, auto-dimming rearview mirror, trip computer, automatic climate control, power driver seat, leather seats, satellite navigation and in-dash six CD .

There are several packages available on both sides. Convenience Group Cargo Security and adds a security alarm, front side airbags, load cover, mirrors, auto-dimming mirrors (basic), an onboard computer (basic), USB (limited) and the UConnect control Bluetooth voice (limited). Remote start is also included if the vehicle is equipped with the CVT.

The Sun and Sound Group adds improved speakers (including a couple who covers and face the outside of the back door open), a ceiling for the base model, the satellite radio. Option Media Center adds a hard drive based navigation system, digital music storage and a USB audio input.

Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes active 4WD, less than the state of the CVT, the engine oil cooler, Hill ascent / descent assist, 17-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires, skid plates, equipment hook coupling, driver seat height adjustment, mats and for all seasons.

Engines and performance

Front-wheel drive is standard on the Jeep Compass 2011, but the four-wheel system is optional. Freedom Drive I 4WD system is front-wheel drive mode under normal circumstances, and will use the power to the rear wheels automatically when needed. It can also be locked in 4WD mode, up to 60 per cent of torque is sent to the rear wheels for better traction off road. Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package includes a lower state of CVT to improve mobility.

Each measure, except for the basic version of front-wheel drive comes standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine is optional on the compass base. The 2.4 makes 172 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a CVT transmission is optional. At the trial of 2011 Jeep Compass Limited 4x4 equipped with the CVT (Freedom Drive I), the vehicle accelerated to 60 mph 3405 lbs to a standstill in 10.3 seconds and reaches the quarter mile in 17, 80.5 mph in 6 seconds . EPA fuel economy of the compass is 21 mpg city and 26 mpg on the highway. With the manual five-speed is capable of 22 mpg city and 28 mpg on the highway. One set of front wheel to the CVT and 2.4-liter engine can achieve 21 mpg city and 27 mpg on the highway.

Available only in the front-wheel drive Compass Base, 2.0-liter four-cylinder makes 158 hp and 141 Nm of torque and offers the same transmission range 2.4. EPA-rated fuel consumption ratings stand at 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway for manual transmission and 23 mpg city and 27 mpg highway for CVT.

Security

Standard safety features include stability control with rollover sensor, full-length side curtain airbags and traction control. Side airbags for front seats are optional.

Jeep Compass is designed for use in the new government more difficult in 2011 crash-test methods. The 2010 votes (which are not comparable to the new test) had four out of five stars and the front-impact crash protection and five stars for side impact protection.

The test, the Compass Limited 4X4 Firestone Firehawk GTA is a 215/55R18 tires stopped 60 mph 120 feet.

Interior Design and Special Features

Sports Compass Rose Cottage this year, the steering wheel more comfortable and soft material in the front doors and armrest console. There are usually found in seating comfort, however, unimpressive.

The Compass offers some useful storage space, including an open bin on the passenger side dashboard. The rear seat backs folded flat, and fold-flat capability back front passenger (standard on Limited, optional on the base) allows you to carry long objects inside.

The cargo area itself is a couple of cubic meters less than the competition, which measures 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.6 cubic feet with rear seats folded back.

Guide

Even with more than 2.4-liter engine feels for the 2011 Jeep Compass sluggish when merging and passing maneuvers, especially when equipped with 4WD and power undermine the FPC. It is also quite noisy. This is related to the characteristics of the PFC, rather than the engine. The compass has received a complete makeover of his suspension in 2011 and ride with better stability and balance, but it may be too strong for some.

Price $ 19 295

2011 Lotus Evora Review

2011 Lotus Evora Review

Comfortable and comfort in a sports car is never an easy task. It is much harder when you apply the Lotus, a manufacturer of niche shows that some of the funniest yet punishes impassable and cars ever made. 2011 Lotus Evora aims to do just that, offering more space and refinement without sacrificing too much athleticism in the process.

 

Although it can hardly be considered great, the Evora is much bigger inside and out than the Elise and Exige colleagues. It also costs about $ 12,000 more, but the money you get two rear seats and the interior much nicer. All this makes the Evora midengine the only four places on the road, but only because they are the rear seats are incredibly small.

Evora import all the subtleties to come at the expense of weight, because the machine weighs 50 percent more than the Elise. But about 3,000 pounds, the Evora is really Porker. In response to a higher tonnage, the Toyota V6 replaces the Toyota line-4, seen in other parts of the current line of Lotus. This year, the Lotus also goes a step further V6 Supercharger is a new Evora S, and there is an optional automatic transmission as well.

At the end of the day, 2011 Lotus Evora may maintain the Elise and Exige stablemates well. And what makes this business with the much quieter cabin and a comfortable ride quality. If you leave the rear seats (and in fact, you should: they are terrible), the Evora closest competitors, all from Porsche.

Although it offers two seats, the design of the midengine Porsche Cayman, exceptional handling and price make it the most obvious solution. If you must use actually four seats, the BMW M3 offers incredible performance and handling, with an impressive amount of practical too. None of them are as attractive as Évora, however, and the new Lotus 2 +2 models on the horizon, this level of commitment driver could be in danger. We suggest you act sooner rather than later, if the Lotus Evora is on your wish list.

Body styles, trim levels and options

In 2011 Lotus Evora is a four-seater sports car, available in base and S trim levels Evora.

Standard equipment includes a cast-aluminum wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, heated exterior mirrors, climate control, leather front seats, rear seats with fabric upholstery, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, power windows, leather-wrapped shift knob and handbrake, trip computer and CD/MP3 player integration with the iPod and an additional audio.

There are three groups of options available. Premium Package adds an accent lighting, a center armrest, heated front seats, floor mats, and premium leather trim in the cabin. Sport Package features selectable modes sport, increased throttle response, a upper rpm, a rear underbody diffuser, titanium exhaust tips and drilled rotors brake calipers painted black. The technology package includes speed control, rear parking sensors, Bluetooth and an upgraded stereo with DVD playback, a 7-inch touch-screen navigation and a USB port. SuedeTex adds an option fake suede interior elements.

Stand-alone options include a gear ratio of sport, a rearview camera, folding electric mirrors, different rims, clear film paint protection and a premium audio system. Buyers can also choose to remove the rear seats for a parcel area in the back.

Evora S gets more power with its compressor motor and drivetrain is also equipped with an exhaust bypass valve that opens in sport, a heavy clutch and a gearbox with close ratio. Also included are all elements of the sport package with an air suspension sportier and more aggressive rear diffuser Aero.

Engines and performance

In 2011 Lotus Evora is powered by a mid-mounted 3.5-liter V6 Toyota produces 276 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The only standard transmission is a conventional six-speed manual, with push-button six-speed automatic transmission with optional paddle shifters. Evora S receives a compressor and increases power to 345 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque or.

Lotus estimates run 0-60 mph in about 4.9 seconds to Evora base, with a top speed of 162 mph, he said. S Evora is expected to reach 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and 172 mph head. Performance figures are equally impressive energy efficiency, the Evora is expected to achieve 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway for the standard manual, while the gearbox sport should get more miles per gallon in the city.

Security

2010-Lotus Evora is clearly sparse when it comes to security. Anti-lock brakes and traction / stability control is included, but not in the form of side airbags are available.

Interior Design and Special Features

Inside the Evora is a good start of the sports car range of hard-core Lotus, sporting a modern cabin, with leather surfaces, carpets and more material comforts offered in the Elise and requires. Relatively few buttons and the buttons are easily accessible and placed with elegance.

Input and output of the front seats is much more civilized than the Elise and Exige, with a stretcher, short and narrow doorways and old. Once seated, there is room for much further forward - enough to comfortably accommodate 6-foot and adults. Unfortunately, the front wheel on the space penetrates the foot. As a result, the clutch pedal moved an inch or two to the right, which can be difficult for some motorists. We had big problems with the lack of a functional dead pedal, though. A small ledge that can only go a few feet all that comes, and its location is painfully uncomfortable.

The rear seats do not perform better and are really nothing more than a shelf with padded seat belt. The rear cargo area is almost nonexistent, and may be uncomfortable for small children. In a pinch, these seats are convenient, but we would probably choose the removal of rear seats. Rear visibility is ridiculous, but fortunately, a rearview camera is optional. As for the tribe, saying Lotus Evora can hold up to 5.7 cubic feet, but its narrow shape drastically limits what you can save there. Curiously, Elise is the trunk that holds only 4.0 cubic easy place large items because of its broader form.

Driving Impressions

In 2011 Lotus Evora is the most comfortable on tight, winding roads. Like its smaller cousins ​​Elise and Exige, knives Evora in curves with unusual precision and level of grip supernatural. Unlike the Elise, but Evora has a relatively quiet cabin with a few squeaks and rattles, lots of sound insulation and a suspension that reduces the effects of potholes to "normal" standards of car.

The power is abundant at all engine speeds and transmission properties of well-spaced gear use the V6 production. Steering feel is good as it gets for any car, and power steering makes maneuvering in tight spaces with ease.

Price $ 64 000

2011 Nissan Leaf

2011 Nissan Leaf


Forget the question, "Who Killed the Electric Car?" That's because Nissan brings the electric car back from the dead. Of course, the Tesla Roadster electric car is cool again, but the 2011 is the Nissan Leaf vehicle electrical power first feature to be offered for sale to the U.S. consumer. Unlike previous electric cars (including the GM EV1), Leaf can be purchased directly, rather than fixed, so that no one is forced to restore the manufacturer After two years of being studied and then destroyed.

Shopping sheets in a pack of lithium ion batteries, making it one of the first vehicles to use advanced battery technology. Lithium batteries promise of better acceleration and range of similar size nickel metal hydride. Nissan says that the recharge at home with a special 220-volt charger will take 4-8 hours. Rapid charging station business can be done in 30 minutes. Fully charged, the sheet is estimated that an effective range of 100 miles.

Course is 100 miles around a third the size of cruise is in a conventional car, Leaf main disadvantage is obvious. Unlike a plug-in hybrid as a Chevy Volt, there is no gasoline engine backup to keep you moving when the batteries are exhausted Leaf. Instead, you will be stuck with a commitment to recharge long enough, and that's if you manage to reach a source of energy available in time. Our take is that the sheet is best suited for drivers to do many routine trips or make shorter trips, and the owners of a household with two cars and a garage.

However, Nissan Leaf 2011 promises to be a very useful tool. Leaf hit the subscription price of about $ 25,000 after the $ 7,500 federal tax credit (the residents of some states are entitled to additional funds, as well). Buyers are advised to buy the $ 2.200 at home charging station, but this unit has its personal tax credit is 50 percent. Operating costs should also be attractive because it leaves the cost of charging should be part of what you want to pay the petrol tank.

An electric car is not for everyone. Passengers long distance for a car and families living in departments interested in fuel-efficient vehicles and green-oriented you should consider a Chevy Volt, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, Toyota Prius (either regular or new plug-in hybrid ) or even a Volkswagen Golf TDI diesel. But for those hoping to buy a real electric car, the arrival of the Road 2011 Nissan is a revolutionary act.

Body styles, trim levels and options

The 2011 Nissan Leaf is an all-electric four-door hatchback available in the levels of SV and SL trims.

Standard equipment includes the SV 16-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, keyless ignition / entry, full power accessories, cruise control, automatic climate control, height-adjustable driver seat, tilt steering wheel and one rear seat 60/40 -split-folding. There is also a fabric made from recycled materials, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, an advanced computer, navigation system and six speaker audio CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and iPod / USB audio interface.

SL magazine adds a rear spoiler mounted on a solar panel, automatic headlights, fog lights, a rearview camera and a cargo cover.

In addition, each sheet comes with a connection of Nissan, a remote vehicle access to the data reports of the battery and can allow climate control via mobile phone. Optional is a charging station in the country and a port for quick charge, which charges 80 percent in 30 minutes in a public charging station.

Engines and performance
2011 Nissan Leaf is powered by a 80-kilowatt synchronous electric motor 24 kWh lithium-ion battery. Output is 107 horsepower and 207 pound-feet of torque. At the same time, the supply of electric power car is significantly different from that of petrol, diesel and even hybrid cars, so take power with a grain of salt Leaf.

Nissan considers a range of 100 miles, but it depends on driving style, traffic conditions, cruise and at the age of the battery. Room temperature actually plays a role in determining the navigation area, because extreme temperatures are detrimental to battery performance. The EPA has rated the equivalent energy Sheet (MPG-e) to Highway 106 mpg city/92 mpg and 99 mpg combined driving range and an estimated 73 miles.

Security

For 2011, Nissan Leaf comes standard with disc brakes with ABS, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. A rearview camera is optional on SL.

Interior Design and Special Features

Because the battery of the blade on the floor under the seats, the rear seat is quite comfortable for adults. The front seat offers no shortage of space for drivers, the same height and the seats themselves are very supportive and comfortable, but short range of the vehicle ensures that you never can be enjoyed 'a long road trip route. Cargo space is a bit small for a hatchback, however, and even if you leave the rear seats, the load floor is not flat.

The interior of the sheet is dominated by a group of two-tier instrument similar to the Honda Civic. The control panel has a center of the touchscreen, which controls the navigation system standard and special features such as cruising range. You can even schedule the start time of the charging system to take advantage of lower electricity rates. The quality of the interior is almost the same as other economy sedan, but in general, and the finish is definitely a step forward.

Guide

Anyone who has driven or at least the next was a hybrid of knowing how quiet it is operating in electric-only mode. It can be scary or cool, depending on your point of view. The 2011 Nissan Leaf, serenity never ceases, and you can only detect a sharp hissing heavy gas. This creates a harmful side effect of quiet to the wind and road noise at highway speeds more, but in general Leaf is amazingly quiet.

Since an electric car, the benefits from a lot of leaf pair, the first touch of the accelerator pedal. Leaves appears to be an exhilarating and speed without drama - such as urban city car, it certainly stands out. Press the brakes and the pedal is firm and sure, and a strange, vague feeling of the most useful indication of braking systems.

The battery is mounted low in the electric power steering and body well-tuned, we were pleasantly surprised by how it transforms the leaf. Its capacity is typical of that seen in other well-designed compact family car, and most of the way, Leaf seems normal enough to drive.

Price $ 32.780