Saturday, April 23, 2011

2011 Hyundai Elantra Review

For 2011 Hyundai Elantra is completely redesigned, with an attractive design, new features, a powerful 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and new gearbox six-speed.

What is the life story of Cinderella and the Hyundai Elantra have in common? More than you think. You see, for years some people have one of them a second thought, as they worked away from the shadows, waiting for their chance to shine.

For the completely redesigned sedan 2011 Hyundai Elantra is the present moment. Ditching its rags like Cinderella, scouring out the Elantra frumpy often refer to a different car, very pleasant to coup for many car buyers. Its stylish new can be a sparkling blue dress with a statuesque blonde, but it is sure to turn some heads.

Conveniently, this new Elantra is more than a pretty face. This dolled-up on the new Elantra sports a new 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine combines with a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmission. Unlike the Chevrolet Cruze Eco Volkswagen Jetta TDI or that require you to pay more for their high consumption of special fuel, this new engine allows for a simple change Elantra impressive EPA estimated 40 mpg on the highway.

Although this new Elantra is always competition in the compact segment, the size of the cabin (like many of its competitors) has increased to the point that the EPA now considered a midsize car in terms of interior volume. It is the inside can also be loaded with premium features offered on some cars even legitimate means, not to mention the compact: keyless entry / ignition, a backup camera and heated rear seats.

Of course, this new 2011 Hyundai Elantra comes to the Royal Ballet, only to find a dance floor full of interesting competitors. In addition to perennial favorites like the Honda Civic and Mazda 3, a compact sedan buyers want to add new Cruze, the Jetta and the Ford Focus 2012 on their lists. But, all things considered, we think that the new Elantra is a combination of distinctive styling, fuel economy, spacious interior and low price could help it become the ball fine.

Body styles, trim levels and options


2011 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan, which is available in two trim levels. GLS model with a basic standard 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, 60/40 split-folding rear seat, trip computer, full power accessories, tilt-only steering wheel and six speaker audio with CD player, satellite radio and iPod / USB audio interface.

Alternatives in the GLS is a popular accessory package that brings 16-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, cruise control and telescopic steering wheel. Package includes favorite accessory 16-inch alloy wheels, Bluetooth, illuminated vanity mirrors and diffuser plug-in, sliding armrest, center console and steering wheel audio controls.

Spring high-end limited and you receive the material above that level alloy wheels, over 17 inches, fog lights, sunroof leather upholstery and heated front and rear seats. An available navigation package (called the Premium Package for the Limited) for the two trim levels adds automatic headlights, keyless ignition / entry (limited), a navigation system, rearview camera, in real-time traffic time and a premium of 360 - watt sound system.

Engines and performance


Feeding the 2011 Hyundai Elantra is a new 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder is rated at 148 horsepower and 131 lb.-ft. of torque. Vehicles sold in California and other states follow the same laws obtain emission PZEV (Partial Zero-Emission Vehicle) version of this engine, which reduces output to 145 hp and 130 lb-ft of torque. GLS models come standard with a six-speed manual transmission with six-speed automatic transmission is optional. Limited Auto series.

No matter what the engine / transmission combo you choose, you'll end up with a saving of fuel. 29 mpg city/40 mpg EPA estimated 33 mpg highway and combined.

Security

2011 Hyundai Elantra to the list of standard safety equipment includes traction and stability control, disc brakes with ABS, active head restraints, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags covering both rows.


Interior Design and Special Features

Elantra interior features a curved center console and air conditioning and style to give a little something extra. The design is attractive and materials, but not the best in its class, at least for a look full of them. Despite the hat deep interior feels bright and spacious - front height is a lot of 6-footers and the steering wheel is a bit 'smaller in diameter than usual, which increases the feeling of space in front. The rear bench is great for the kids, and even many adults, even if the principles in finding a good room with the vertical leg and a lack of free rec.

The Elantra has a large trunk at 14.8 cubic feet of cargo space, a generous number of this segment.

Driving Impressions

While the 2011 Hyundai Elantra is not as exciting to drive as it is to look at, it is certainly not the pumpkin. The new 1.8-liter engine has plenty of PPE for everyday driving, and changing six-speed automatic downshifts smoothly and easily. Engine gets noisy at high speeds, however.

As for handling, in fact a combination of a rigid body structure and many more well tuned suspension made the new Elantra fun to drive. The car is stable and planted, with the roll when cornering relatively small - qualities that result in an additional sense of confidence behind the wheel. Comments by the new electric power steering seems a little artificial, but it is always fast and accurate.

In the daily conduct of the ride quality is on the business side, but is well damped and, for most potential buyers, should be far wrong. The cabin is relatively quiet with little wind noise in itself, but it is enough road noise to remind you that the Elantra compact car is still an economy sedan that appears to be high dollar.

Price MSRP from $14,945

Sunday, April 17, 2011

2006 HUMMER H1 Alpha SUV Review

The H1 (the original official name from the beginning of Hummer H2) is a civilian version of the high mobility multipurpose vehicle with wheels (HMMWV) or Humvee used by the U.S. military. AM General, the current manufacturer of the H1, was awarded the contract to build the first government in 1983, the Humvee. Significant exposure to the American public during the first Gulf War convinced AM General a civilian version would be a viable consumer product. It was first made available to the public in 1992 and was sold in limited quantities ever since. Although some changes were made to qualify for public sale, the first civilian version was very similar to the original military. Since then, small improvements were made to soften his image. Significant improvements in the interior, including consoles and new redesigned seats, occurred in 2004.

Hummer has also sought to improve the car's performance this year, installing a more powerful engine and new five-speed automatic.

No matter how many changes Hummer fact, there is no work around the fact that it is a big heavy truck with really bad table manners. Compared to a Lexus LX 470, for example, H1 appears as hopelessly primitive, expensive and generally ineffective for normal use. Not that it's not a big secret, of course. Lobsters are fully aware that this is a specialty vehicle, which is why it gives longer the H2 and H3 SUV. Both offer the same style and vehicles is much more realistic for the day-to-date property. Only when you want a vehicle with no holds barred off-road or "look at me!" Space makes H1 Alpha has gone. In both situations, there is never any doubt that the H1 Alpha is the real deal.


Body styles, trim levels and options

H1 Alpha is a four-passenger SUV available in two body styles: four doors open to or greater than four-door sedan. Standard equipment on the trim level includes items such as power windows, keyless entry, heated outside mirrors, leather seats, cruise control, air conditioning, six CD audio system. Central Tire Inflation System by using the on-board compressor allows the driver to adjust the tire pressure via the cockpit controls. Standard wheel size is 17-inch run-flat tires, two 17-inch wheels in aluminum with double bead locks are optional, as are special Goodyear Wrangler MT / R tires. And 'well-off Road Adventure package that includes front and rear Eaton E-Locker differential lock, 12,000 pound winch and a 17-inch, two-piece wheels.

Engines and performance

Hummer H1 Alpha features a 6.6-liter turbodiesel V8. It makes 300 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque and sending power to all four wheels through a five-speed automatic. Directed at the poles, a self-locking front and rear of the differences, and an optional limited slip differential locks combine to give H1 Alpha high-speed slow, the ability of rock crawling. Properly equipped, open-top version can tow up to 9300 pounds.

Security

Safety devices are almost limited to the standard anti-lock brakes and a control tire pressure. No airbags, not even the driver. No government agency has tested a Hummer accident, but with a weight of at least 7500 pounds, the odds are generally in favor of H1 Alpha.


Interior Design and Special Features

Ergonomics in the cabin has been improved over the years but still lags behind competitors expensive luxury SUV. The seats are comfortable for smaller framed individuals, but many people will find the passenger cramped at best. Come in and out of H1 is an exercise, yes, exercise. Big and clumsy switches control various functions, and gauges are commercial units round with a look decidedly aftermarket. Cargo room is smaller than what is usually a full-size SUV.

Driving Impressions

Although the new engine this year has improved acceleration, Hummer H1 Alpha is still a hobby 13.5 seconds to go from zero to 60. And do not expect carlike, or even truck-like handling. Hummer recorders and wallows its way around the city the way you would expect from a military vehicle is derived, and braking distances are long. When the roof of the sidewalk, however H1 Alpha has no equal in the open land. The authorization of the truck floor of 16 inches clearance angles wide, low transmission and tires adapted fleshy can climb on a Ford or trampled by almost any obstacle that comes his way.

Price $ 82 005

Monday, April 11, 2011

2009 Hummer H2 SUV

Few vehicles on the road to make a statement quite like the Hummer H2. The transport model of vigorous military Humvee, the dimensions of the H2 and Tonka-like profile to give an aura of games tyrant. But as with many Goliath / intimidate the stories, the powerful are challenged by the poor, become victims of their own audacity. An uncertain future for the operations of the Hummer brand due to rising fuel costs, changing public opinion and the decline in sales. Despite all this, the Hummer H2 2009 is the icon on your face the leader of the pack. H2's off-road capabilities are legendary, while his appeals to the reputation of the inhabitants of the city image conscious daring.

Like most of the range GM, the Hummer H2 to share much of the basis for other models. The resistance of the frame is the same as the previous generation of the Chevrolet Tahoe, even though H2 has a short-term excesses and massive ground clearance, which will help to strengthen its off-road credentials. Under the hood is a robust 6.2-liter V8, which is powerful enough to motivate all the H2 6600-more than pounds. At the same time, it is wrapped in a bold and elegant that still makes the H2 a distinctive-looking vehicles on the road.

While these are certainly admirable qualities Saracens in the world politically correct today, there is no way to bypass the H2 are obvious errors. Its outer dimensions are bulky in contradiction with the cramped rear seat and cargo space limited, and its fuel economy is miserable smiles on faces greedy oil execs. For daily use, such as SUV Land Rover Range Rover, Lincoln Navigator and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class will be much better to own and offer more cachet and prestige as well. Unless you really need something that can cross the streams two feet deep, the 2009 Hummer H2 is probably a luxury full-size SUV, you can pass it on.


Body styles, trim levels and options

In 2009 Hummer H2 is a luxury full-size SUV. In addition to the standard H2 are generously appointed two options packages offered - Adventure H2 and H2 luxury. H2 Standard equipment includes alloy wheels 17 inches, dual zone automatic climate control, optional rear air conditioning, leather seats, power front seats with driver memory, heated front and second row seats, remote start, OnStar, Bluetooth and a Bose eight-speaker audio with in dash six-disc changer, satellite radio and an extra audio jack.

H2 Adventure Package includes all standard equipment and adding more off-road can be a front brush guard. Self-leveling rear air suspension, first aid kit, flashlight and a deluxe kit The kit H2 is oriented mainly for the glory road choose the opulence of the machine useful for adventure over rough and tumble of 20-inch chrome wheels, chrome, third row seats, a premium Bose surround sound system, a navigation system in real-time traffic and a rearview camera and a rear seat entertainment system DVD. Those who prefer to choose lucky because most of these add-ons are available as individual options. Second row captain's chairs are also an option available in all variants.

New for 2009 Black Chrome package. Only a limited production of 1300, package replaces chrome trim in black chrome and body-colored wheel flares matching, side rocker moldings and shutters cap. Exclusive metal box is dressed in black chrome interior Sedona and correspondents.

Engines and performance

Pushing the 2009 Hummer H2 on the road is a 6.2-liter V8 produces 393 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque. Power through a six-speed automatic transmission with Driver Shift Control manual on how to turn all four wheels. When the pavement runs out, H2 conquer the desert with a dual transfer case range, electronically controlled throttle calibrated for low range and driver-selectable rear differential closet. For those who expect to attract more than the lobster can be stored internally, towing capacity tops out at £ 8.200.

Because H2 has a GVWR (gross vehicle weight) of more than 8500 pounds, the EPA did not give estimates of fuel economy. Of course, your fuel card will take a hit when it comes time to fill 32 gallons.

Security

Safety equipment includes ABS as standard H2 disc brakes, brake assist, stability control with rollover prevention, traction control and full-length side curtain airbags. OnStar is also an emergency call and the turn-by-turn directions.


Interior Design and Special Features

The interior of the H2, updated last year's models, is furnished with surfaces that are smooth to the touch and well above the hard plastic in the cabins below. H2 Capacity passenger four to seven now, with chairs new option this year in the second row of captain. In the back seat of accommodation include temperature control and an optional entertainment system to keep passengers cool, comfortable and occupied. Despite an exterior that seems an echo induction car, the interior is surprisingly modest. Rear legroom is limited for frequent travelers and optional third-row seats are less spacious than a Toyota RAV4. Meanwhile, 86.6 cubic feet of cargo space is smaller than other luxury SUV full size.

Driving Impressions

2009 Hummer H2 excels in off-road with its high ground clearance, the steep angles of approach and departure, the journey long and tenacious tire grip. Among luxury SUV H2 is literally off-road King of the Hill. Back to the streets of the city, but the appearance of the H2 is a bit like a rolling suitcase overloaded in a corridor crowded being pushed by an NFL linebacker - heavy and clumsy, but his enormous size is enough to scare themselves nearer everything else. Despite its size and mass of 6.614 pounds, is expected to reach 60 km / h in under 10 seconds. It is not laziness, and as a linebacker above, it is doubtful anyone would be a challenge for heavy H2.

Price $ 50,860

Friday, April 1, 2011

2010 HUMMER H3 SUV Review

It does not seem that long ago when the Hummer were status symbols favorite celebrity series. Somehow, it was considered cool to drive the massive, 3-ton, gas-guzzling H2 SUV through a crowded city streets along the way previews of Hollywood and expensive restaurants. Hummer will soon expand to include younger brother recent H3, which offers similar to H2, but expect a much lower price, a more reasonable and less gluttonous appetite for fuel.

Then gas prices rose sharply, driving the Hummer was born as cool as Kanye West to host the Grammy Awards. To make matters worse is planned sale of the Hummer brand, which has left uncertainty about the future of the brand. 2010 Hummer H3 still soldiers, when they can not resist the Hummer is true eye-catcher style Tonka Trucks to its brand new. 

Impressive off-road ability is still strong Hummer, the H3 and was not disappointed. The short overhangs, generous ground clearance, large tires and locking differentials available to become a force to consider the rough roads. But the reality is you'll never see anything more solid than the edge of a football field.

Ultimately, too many sacrifices made here on behalf of the ability to style and off-road sense for most people. With its small windows, the H3 offers outward visibility almost equal to the Brink of the truck, while the empty weight of nearly 5,000 pounds (almost as much as a Tahoe) is a heavy burden the standard five-cylinder engine. Yes, the Alpha has a powerful V8 engine, but its thirst for fuel is the second to the thirst of some celebrities "of care. On the positive side, the H3 does not provide a smooth ride and comfortable seating for four adults, capacity is even thinner on the part of this segment.

So yes, maybe the 2010 Hummer H3 is a good choice for those who venture off-road regularly or is so taken with her unique creations that they can live with disabilities. But its competitors - whether customized built machines like the Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and Toyota FJ Cruiser, or the more traditional SUV Jeep Grand Cherokee and Nissan Pathfinder - provide greater overall value, performance, efficiency and quality for most consumers.




Body styles, trim levels and options 

2010 Hummer H3, a mid-size sport-utility vehicle is available in two basic models: the base five-cylinder H3, and efficiency in the Alpha.

The H3 features standard alloy wheels 16 inch dishes filled with trawl, Hill Start Assist, air conditioning, cruise control, fog lights, remote keyless entry, OnStar, Bluetooth and a six-speaker CD player with radio satellite. Alfa model adds a V8 engine, 16-inch polished wheels, leather seats and steering wheel, floor mats, heated front seats, garage door opener universal power adjustment.

A luxury package on the base model with many extras alpha plus a Monsoon sound system with six-CD changer, while the appearance package dresses H3 Alpha with a chrome fuel tank CAP wheels and rails shelter, and other things. A ceiling painting, special hardware, a navigation system and a rearview camera are also available.

Hummer H3s available with two suspension packages to meet the requirements of different terrain. The standard Z85 suspension and handling heavy towing offers more balanced and off-road capability, with 32-inch all-terrain tires and different rear axle gear. Package Adventure Off-Road option is designed for more aggressive off-pavement capability, with over 33 inch tires, specially tuned shock absorbers, a case of cast iron front differential, locking differentials front and rear and shorter transfer case gear for maximum control during hill climbs and descents. It also adds some elements of the package as a luxury power driver seat and the monsoon system noise.

Propulsion and Performance


All models 2010 Hummer H3 is equipped with a four-wheel drive and a box of two-speed transfer. The standard engine is a 3.7-liter inline five-cylinder that generates 239 horsepower and 241 lb-ft of torque, backed by a five-speed manual transmission as standard or optional four-speed automatic transmission. The acceleration is due mate H3 is nearly 5000 pounds of weight and the maximum towing is estimated at a modest 4500 pounds. The EPA estimated fuel economy of 14 mpg highway and 15 mpg control city/18 mpg in association with the transmission.

Alpha model incorporates the pace with the 5.3-liter V8 cranking out 300 horsepower and above, 320 Nm of torque mated to a four-speed automatic movement. Overall performance has improved significantly, and the 00-60 sprint in 8 seconds, the area of ​​the road, and the largest towing capacity shoots up to 6000 pounds. As expected, the estimated fuel economy is still suffering, 13 mpg city/16 mpg highway rating and 14 mpg combined.

Security

ABS, traction control, stability control system, hill-start assist, OnStar, and a full-length side curtain airbags are standard on all H3s.

In government crash tests, the Hummer H3 2010 earned a perfect five of five stars for driver protection and four stars for passenger protection in frontal crash tests. The side-impact tests resulted in the protection of five stars for both front and rear passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests on the road, the Hummer H3 received a second "acceptable" rating in crash tests for front and side as compensation.




Interior Design and Special Features

H3's cabin is attractive in a utilitarian sort of way, but a little light compared to the design of the Hummer H3's bold exterior. The leather seats are encouraged to arrange things a little with a color scheme in two-tone and contrast piping. Build quality is acceptable, although most competitors offer fine appointments. In addition, a stereo and climate interfaces are not as friendly as those found in other GM vehicles.

The seats are comfortable, though the outward visibility is compromised for drivers and passengers short due to the high beltline and H3 low profile window design. The rear seat occupants have plenty of room to stretch out once, but the entry and exit through the door opening rather small can be a challenge, and more people may find little cramped office. Cargo capacity is lagging behind its rivals, only 63 cubic feet with the seats folded. The threshold load cargo floor is also quite high, but easily accessible at the side door hinged at the rear.

Guide

The inline-5 runs generally the norm to keep pace with traffic when the tool around the city, but the 2010 Hummer H3 near bulk-5 0.000 pounds it causes stuttering when confronted with steeper climbs and high speed passing situations. In beefy V8 Alpha fixes this problem, of course, and is accompanied by a muscular exhaust note and better throttle response at all speeds.

Off-Road Hummer Jr. element and can be overcome almost any terrain you encounter as a result of 9 cm and height from the ground, full of suspension, skid plates and a standard approach and impressive angles of departure. Since this is an off-road, H3 makes admirably on the sidewalk, where the stability of a decent speed. The ride is surprisingly smooth and distorts the H3's tough-truck nature.

Price $ 26 953