Sports Cars Fans | King Abdullah greenlights Gazal 1 to become first Saudi-made car

The very first car designed and built in Saudi Arabia is officially a reality. King Abdullah unveiled the production Gazal 1 at a special ceremony yesterday and congratulated everyone who participated in the vehicle's development on a job well done. As you may recall, the Gazal 1 was a special project created by the students at King Saud University. Though built off the bones of a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the KSU kids penned the exterior and reworked the interior to accommodate Saudi Arabia's notoriously brutal climate and demanding terrain.

When we saw the original Gazal 1 design study at this year's Geneva Motor Show, we thought the vehicle looked pretty good, especially considering how little experience the SUV's designers had in bringing a full-scale vehicle to life. From what we can tell, it looks like the production version has stuck fairly close to the big green model we saw back in March. That means the Toyota FJ Cruiser-style roof has made its way into reality along with the very International grille.

It works for us, especially considering the go-anywhere Mercedes-Benz components bolted underneath. No one's said what's under the hood of the Gazal 1, but we're guessing the same 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8 from the standard G550 is a good bet.

[Source: Arab News]

Sports Cars Fans | Minor updates to Mini Cooper leaked

If loose lips truly sank ships, the interwebs would be at the bottom of the Pacific. A few shots of the 2011 Mini Cooper and Cooper S have hit the web courtesy of the keen-eyed crew at MotoringFile. As you might expect, Mini isn't exactly walking away from the iconic shape that has dominated the brand since it hit the scene a few short years ago. Instead, it looks like we'll be seeing (very) slightly reworked front fascias with something of a smiley face treatment and a host of LED lighting.

From what we can tell from these few leaked brochure photos, it looks like we can expect a few new colors to hit the Cooper pallete as well. The base Cooper will be available dipped in Spice Orange and the Cooper S will boast a powder blue hue in addition to the spectrum already available for the car. So far, we're not quite sure what to expect in terms of power or drivetrain additions, but our guess is things will continue to stay pretty much the same for 2011.


[Source: MotoringFile]

Luxury Cars 2010 | 2010 Acura ZDX

The 2010 Acura ZDX is one of the most recently designed luxury cars from the house of Acura. It has been equipped with all the latest luxury amenities, along with the necessary safety features, so as to make it capable of competing with the most prestigious luxury cars in the market.

Featuring a 3.6 L SOHC VTEC V6 mated with 6-speed manual transmission, the ZDX will be more than capable of satisfying the power hunger of most of the sports enthusiasts. Its 300bhp throughput is going to be enough to cruise along the city premises, and also rock the highways in style.

As far as the exterior looks are concerned, initially when Acura had leaked some teasing pictures of Acura ZDX it had a slider moon/sun-roof, which looked very much similar to the BMW X6 coupe, though later on it neither happened to be a crossover nor an SUV.

Moving on towards pricing part, the 2010 Acura ZDX will start at US$ 45,495 and will extend up to US$ 56,045. The add-on packs will cost you extra, and the hard core sport enthusiasts may want to shell out a bit extra on getting custom wheels, stylish body covers and few more accessories for their latest speedster.

It is closely related to Honda Crosstour and Acura MDX, and will be one of the most prestigious luxury cars in the line-up of Acura.

Turning the focus towards the dimensions of this luxury coupe, the wheelbase will be about 108.2 in (2,748 mm), while the length, width and height of the 2010 ZDX will be 192.4 inches (4,887 mm), 78.5 inches (1,994 mm) and 62.8 inches (1,595 mm) respectively.

You may also want to know more about the 2010 Acura ZDX and check out the latest Acura ZDX reviews, pictures as well as specs.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Geof_Ryan

Luxury Cars 2010 | The 2010 Ford Mustang

Like previous model years, the 2010 Ford Mustang ranges from inexpensive and unrefined, to moderately expensive and highly refined. Basic V-6 models remain largely untouched and still offer a stiff ride with a less than ideal steering system. High-end models are more reminiscent of luxury cars, except that they are still noticeably pony cars with a lot of power. Basic models are great for consumers looking to break into the performance car market without spending a lot of money, while high-end models will impress even the toughest critics.

2010 Ford Mustang cars have been revamped both outside and in. Larger wheels are the standard on all models, with more power for GT models, the addition of stability control as standard options on all models as well. Though still unrefined, handling has been improved slightly in basic models, and handling changes are very noticeable with GT models. High-end GT packages have a new suspension system that was originally made for the discontinued Bullit engines of the '09 season.

Engines available still include the aging V-6 4.0 liter engine, which although it is getting old, still puts out an amazing amount of power. Basic models are equipped with the V-6 and it starts at a much lower price than V-8 equipped models. Compared with the lower models from the re-introduced Chevy Camaro, consumers may find that all around quality is lacking in Ford's base models. Where the V-6 cars excel however is body styling and interior quality. Not just high end models benefit from the complete overhaul given to these pony cars.

GT models are the only logical choice for consumers who can afford and want a true luxury style powerhouse. The available V-8 engine with an additional 15 horsepower compared with the previous season. The enhanced suspension tuning has meant that the car is even more fun for drivers. Compared with it's closest competitor, the Chevy Camaro SS, the 2010 Ford Mustang is slightly smaller and a lot more nimble. Even the Dodge Challenger can't offer the responsive handling that the original pony car easily puts out.

Each engine is offered with two different trim packages. There is the V-6, V-6 premium, GT, and GT premium. Basic models come with a few accessories, with a CD player and full power accessories offered on the premium edition. GT models come with a great choice of interior upholstery and dashboard styling. GT premiums offer just every luxury a consumer could want, and the price tag certainly doesn't let them forget it.

Safety ratings are very impressive as well. Both side and frontal tests show that the Mustang is perfect in each category. The front side airbags and standard stability control certainly make this a much safer vehicle than previous model years. The addition of 4 wheel anti lock disc brakes also only adds to the safety offered to drivers and passengers. Fuel economy ranges from 16 mpg city to 24 mpg highway. Of course the smaller V-6 gets the best numbers, while high end models equipped with a V-8 get less.

The overhauled 2010 Ford Mustang is still an eye catching pony car that offers a lot of power. Fortunately, Ford has decided to offer a lot more performance capabilities with that power in the form of much needed suspension updates. Perhaps the best part of these cars is that they truly offer something for everybody. Consumers on a budget can own a performance model, and those who want only the best can get their own model of Mustang. Expect the 'Stang to remain the most popular American pony car.

Dan Legal is a member of the web team that runs the website LemonFree.com Cars. LemonFree is a car search engine which currently over 1.8 million new and used cars for sale.

If your interested in purchasing a 2010 Ford Mustang; give LemonFree a test drive today!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Daniel_Legal

Luxury Cars 2010 | 2010 Range Rover Sport

The 2010 Range Rover Sport builds on its predecessor's impeccable pedigree, and now comes with two new powerplants, a 375 horsepower LR-V8 5.0 liter, naturally aspirated engine, as well as a supercharged version that puts out a mammoth 510 horsepower! In India, you have the option of the 3.0 liter V6 diesel and the 5.0 liter supercharged petrol. And believe me, 510bhp in car such as this, or any car for that matter, is a lot!

These engines were developed in conjunction with Jaguar, and are touted to be lighter and more efficient than the previous generation units. The new naturally aspirated RR Sport can hit 100km/h in a very spritely 7.4 seconds, while the supercharged variant takes just 6.0 seconds - Sport indeed. Both LR-V8 engines are mated to the ZF HP28 six- speed automatic transmission.

This time, we got a chance to sample the naturally aspirated version of the new Range Rover Sport - driving it from San Francisco to Los Angeles, and back, with a mild off-road excursion at a beach on California's glorious Pacific coast.

In terms of styling, the 2010 Range Rover Sport retains the earlier versions clean cut design, The 2010 update does, however, include LED headlamps, combined with a new two-bar grille, revised front bumpers and widened fenders. At the rear, new light clusters, and a revised bumper design mirror the smoother front-end. With its muscular squat stance, the Range Rover Sport certainly has great road presence, and looks just as purposeful whether it's cruising on Hollywood Boulevard or playing in the sand.

According to the company, the interiors have been redesigned using higher quality materials and soft-touch finishes to create an environment that's 'truly worthy of the Range Rover brand: With infinitely adjustable leather seats, tactile, well laid out switches, the interiors of the Range Rover Sport are truly fantastic,and arguably better than most other luxury SUV's on the road today. In fact, the redesign does bring the cabin of the Sport much more in line with its ultra luxurious bigger brother - the original Range. Special mention, also, must be made of the Harmon Kardon surround sound system that boasts 480 watts of power. Its 14 individual speakers produce a dramatic 3D effect from a iz-channel digitally controlled amplifier that makes for outstanding acoustics.

The Sport has a new virtual instrument panel that has the latest Thin-Film- Transistor (TFT) LCD technology that provides exceptional clarity of driver information. Key information found in the instrument cluster includes air suspension height settings, hill descent control and speed settings, as well as Hi/Lo gear ratio selection. The new display certainly makes vehicle data more accessible and easier to read for the driver.

Range Rovers have always been known for their off-road ability. In the new model, the famed Terrain Response system boasts a series of improvements - including improved performance when tackling challenging terrain like sand or large rocks. For soft sand conditions, a 'sand launch control' mode makes for a noticeably easier drive-away. New, speed- dependent wheel-slip targets for the traction control system permit only very limited initial wheel-slip - helping to prevent the wheels digging down into the sand. The system also has an improved rock crawl program for better control while traversing boulders or driving through rocky terrain.

You really have to experience the effortless off-road ability of these vehicles to truly believe it. This particular Range Rover Sport wasn't able to show its full off-road potential however, as it was hampered by massive rims and low profile tarmac tires, which prevented us from taking the Sport into the larger dunes - so we rented some ATV's, and went dune bashing with those instead.

The on-road biased rubber aside, the Sport has an Integrated Body Frame (IBF) chassis that provides the best of both worlds - the strength of a ladder frame chassis, allowing it true off-road capability, as well as the rigidity of a monocoque, giving it good on-road manners. On the road, the new 375 horsepower V8 engine is smooth, and has plenty of torque, which makes for brisk acceleration. This naturally aspirated engine is just 15 horsepower shy of the previous editions supercharged powerplant. And yet, this engine is more efficient than the supercharged car that we tested last year - nonetheless, we could only manage 18 mpg (8 kmpl), which makes for frequent stops at the pump on a long journey. Nevertheless, on long drives, the Sport is an effortless cruiser - the gearing is perfect, and the engine has enough power in reserve to blitz past slower traffic. The extensive use of aluminum in the engine, transmission case, and body panels reduces weight up front and ensures that the car excels, beyond belief, on tight twisting roads - where it feels light and agile. Steering response also is improved on the Range Rover Sport with the stiffening of the front suspension lower arm forward bushing - enhancing the sense of driver involvement at higher speeds.

With its new powerplant, and subtle interior and exterior enhancements, the new Range Rover Sport builds on the previous cars' inherent strengths to offer an even more luxurious and powerful, yet efficient, package.

The new engine is so capable that it becomes hard to justify spending the extra moolah to go in for the supercharged version,which begs the obvious question-why isn't the naturally aspirated 5.0 litre available in india? Nevertheless, with its impeccable looks, the Range Sport has immense road presence and commands respect.Plus the car's versatile and equipped for anything you can throw its way.

And with Jaguar Land Rover sales on the upswing,it seems that Tata motors has reason to smile once again.Moreover,it appears that the initials fears,held by some detractors,that JLR products won't be able to incorporate the latest technology under Indian ownership have been proven completely unfounded by this desirable and modern SUV.Put simply,it's now even more brilliant on-road,and still exceptional off-road as well.

http://maguscars.com/blogs/2010/02/177/

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jyoti_Gupta

Luxury Cars 2010 | Best New Cars For Sale of 2010

As they say, "Your car describes who you are" and of course owning an impressive automobile does matter!

For all those who want nothing but the best, the automotive market has come up with the best new cars for sale of 2010 in Australia. These models are loaded with the best features and the look that will definitely make heads turn. Whether you want to buy your first car or in a mood to change the old one, this automotive sale has got something for every car lover. Read below to know everything and find new cars for sale in 2010.


2010 BMW 3-Series/ M3: A cohesive fluidity that is just unmatched by any of its competitors, the 2010 BMW 3-series come as two-door convertibles and coupes, along with 4-door sedans and wagons. From the 230-hp 328i that can attain 30-plus mpg on the highways to the uncharacteristically responsive and thriftier diesel to the remarkable bawl of the M3's 414-hp V-8 at 8400 rpm that gets the 0-60 mph work done in only four seconds. There might be faster cars in the market but the M3 series have got a better list of test victories and are known to provide more confidence to the driver. Its steering, unwavering chassis and the seats make it exactly the car that you would like to drive every day.


2010 Honda Accord: Dashing, powerful and plush Honda Accord is the blend of simplicity, luxury and style. Along with the commanding complete size sedan presence, wide opening doors and 271-hp V-6 Engine, the 2010 Honda Accord has got the variable cylinder management that offers the combination of fuel efficiency and brisk acceleration. With the facilities like choice of 5- speed manual or 5-speed automatic transmissions, navigation system, Bluetooth hands free link and dual zone automatic climate control, the 2010 Honda Accord is every driver's first choice.


Mazda Mazda3 / Mazdaspeed3: The latest Mazda Mazda 3 has got a lot more than just a shiny new cover. It turbo charged engine, sports tuned suspension, balance of speed, practicality, affordability and various other elite qualities make it the first choice of every car lover. From affordable price to proper safety Mazdaspeed 3 is an exceptional package for every buyer.


MAZDA MX-5: Dream of every speed lover, the aim behind designing Mazda MX 5 is to provide the feel of heart racing excitement along with safety. The multi award winning Mazda MX - 5 is a dream for everyone who likes to drive with passion. A two door roadster, Mazda MX - 5 provides a perfect 50:50 weight distribution and a rear wheel drive chassis for outstanding balance and agility. With the feel of a perfect classic roadster, Mazda MX-5 is a blend of excitement (with safety) for every sports car lover.


VOLKSWAGEN GOLF: Among various cars for sale, the Volkswagen Golf is one of the most popular choices of car lovers. From a classy cabin to efficient, smooth and clean new engines, Volkswagen Golf is the quietest, smoothest, safest, and the most luxurious cars on the market. The look is a blend of elegance and style. Tested rigorously many times, Volkswagen is the safest option one can opt for. From parking sensors to automatic dimming mirrors, Volkswagen golf is a combination of class and pleasure on wheels.

Find a wide range of brand new cars for sale of each makes and models at AutoMarket.com.au, one of the biggest automotive portal of Australia. Auto Market is a free car advertising services where car buyers and sellers can connect easily. Buyers can search all types of cars for sale, new cars, second hand car, and used cars for sale, whereas private sellers, car dealers, brokers can sell cars for free.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sumeet_Bagga

Luxury Cars 2010 | The 2010 Devon GTX Makes Its Debut

There have been a plethora of attempts to catch the first glimpse of the 2010 Devon GTX, to estimate its prowess and potential to please. Well, the spying and sneaking around days have come to a close, as the 2010 Devon has finally graced us with an appearance during its debut on Pebble Beach. And let us relay that this supercar is aligned to impress!

When most people think of a seriously luxurious car, they think of European cars, it is just natural. Well, the Devon GTX coupe is quite literally the response of the United States to European uber-exclusive sports cars. That is not to say that Europe does not produce some of the world's finest luxury sports convertibles, coupes and cars, but to say that the United States has a healthy appetite for competition.

The 2010 GTX is composed of all steel and carbon fiber, which conceals an impressive 8.4-liter V8 engine capable of 650 horsepower with a six-speed manual gearbox. This car was designed for the driver. The exhilarating relationship between the driver and the pavement was handcrafted into every design feature, bringing it to life. Like the feeling of lust one obtains from an exotic rental car, notably an exotic coupe rental!

The first 2010 GTX is scheduled to hit the market in early 2010 and will be available in two versions: the standard and a track-focused model. Each version of the GTX coupe is to feature an independent suspension and features unique to it. If you are interested in a 2010 Devon GTX coupe, it is in your best interest to let them know about it, because the company intends to produce a mere 36 cars annually, with a price tag of half a million each. How pretty do you want to make your pennies?

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Safady