2011 Kia Soul Review

Kia Seoul may be some improvements in 2011, new rear shocks and standard rear disc brakes (rear drums, which replaces last year) is the most important. Other minor changes are the new door handles, button start, onboard computer, heated exterior mirrors and.

Whether or not the car style are placed square on the line between SUV and sedan are a fad or the shape of things to come remains to be seen. Just by the nature of their square shapes, which offer a remarkable space and practical, but aesthetic in general, leave much to be desired. 2011 Kia Soul can be counted among the boxes on wheels, but stands out with the corners with a more interesting and less difficult.

Such as competition, offering Kia Soul to a long list of features and customization options. He is also in agreement with funky names like trim + Soul and soul. No, it's not a typo: the plus sign and an exclamation point is actually trim levels. Features such as a surround speaker that light pulses with the music is certainly news for the youth market, but the soul also has a certain appeal practice. Guarantee affordable and generous, two of his most prominent attributes. 

Kia engineers also managed to infuse the soul with Peppy engine performance (at least on higher trim levels) and sporty handling. Together they form a core surprisingly fun to drive small cars, there is always a breeze to maneuver around tight city limits in relative comfort. On the highway, had the soul of last year's ride quality a concern, but the new rear shock absorbers must be at least partially address this problem.

We evaluate the 2011 Kia Soul at high boxy open competition, which includes the Nissan Cube and Scion xB. Both can accommodate more cargo than the Kia with its rear seats stowed, but scores points for Soul most attractive designs to us. There are some more traditional choices as well as the Honda Fit and Mini Cooper Clubman, they also have sharp styling, handling and cargo versatility sports surprising. But Kia Soul gets almost everything right. And we think it is worth adding to your list.

Body styles, trim levels and options

2011 Kia Seoul is a wagon with four-door sedan / available in the base, +! and Sport trim levels. Standard equipment includes 15-inch steel wheels, air conditioning, full power accessories, computer, tilt steering, cloth upholstery, rear seat and four 60/40-split-folding speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and USB. Seoul + bigger engine, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, keyless entry, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, rear privacy glass, driver seat height adjustment, the metal interior, Bluetooth, steering wheel mounted audio controls and dual speakers.

A sunroof, fog lamps, rugs and a better audio system are optional on the soul +. Included in the soul, with 18-inch wheels, heated mirrors, leather steering wheel and two-tone upholstery. Alma sport is like the soul! and adds a sport suspension, an interior two-tone red and black, metal pedals and unique exterior trim details. The sunroof is optional on Sport.

Buyers can choose the premium package Seoul! and Sport models, which adds leather upholstery, heated front seats and keyless ignition. Other options include stand-alone body kit, cargo cover, and auto-dimming rear view mirror.

Engines and performance

Base 2011 Kia Seoul is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 122 horsepower and 115 pound-feet of torque to the ground five-speed manual. Higher power levels for the 2.0-liter four makes 142 hp in-line and 137 Nm of torque. A five-speed gearbox is standard, and the four-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. Performance testing, Sports Seoul manual went from zero to 60 mph in a respectable 8.8 seconds.

EPA believes that the Soul is the basic fuel economy of 26 mpg and 28 mpg highway mpg city/31 in combined driving. The 2.0-liter engine is estimated at 24/30/26 mpg with either manual or automatic transmission.

Security

Standard safety equipment as all Kia models Seoul 2011 include four-wheel antilock disc brakes, brake assist, front active head restraints, stability control, traction control, front side airbags, curtain airbags and a half.

Kia Soul has not been evaluated by the new government, more grueling 2011 crash-test procedure. Sine 2010-rating (which is not comparable with 2011 votes) was a top five stars for frontal crash protection and side for both front passengers and four stars for protection against side impact for rear passengers. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the soul to its highest score of "good" in frontal impact side offset, and stress tests of the roof.

In recent braking tests, a Kia Soul! stop to 60 mph in 121 feet, the average car of this class.

Interior Design and Special Features

Even if Seoul Kia interior design is practical, it looks a lot younger and colors to make things. Podlike dash center console is pushed, with simple audio and climate controls within easy reach. Optional upholstery and a special two-tone colors are a modern feel in the cabin, something is missing a lot of competition Kia.

There is no shortage of space inside, with elevated seats provide plenty of legroom, even for the most passengers, while the large boxy roof provides adequate clearance. Luggage space behind the rear seats is 19 cubic feet. Fold the seats flat kick that number up to 53 cubes. This is slightly lower than the Honda Fit, several feet shy of the Nissan Cube and Scion xB well for 70 cubic feet.

Guide

In 2011, Kia Soul, especially sports model, agile and feels well planted at high speed cornering. Director numbness on center feel and a strange non-linear action, though. Around the city, the soul is pleasantly comfortable. With a modified rear shocks, we expect the highway route to be less troubled than the previous model year. While option 18-inch wheels and tires are certainly attractive, they can also cause excessive noise and a certain hardness larger bumps.

Seoul-based engine is fighting to get the car running, but because only offered a manual transmission, we are inclined to think most buyers lean towards the 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission. This engine is at home in the city due to traffic and a number of solid low-end torque and enthusiasm. Manual transmission is fairly straight, but throw the switch and the long introduction is vague.

Price $ 13, 300

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 Jaguar XF Review

Now in its third year of production, the XF saloon is still a game changer for Jaguar. Recent Jaguars appear to have been designed to meet what was thought a Jaguar should be: namely, a car that looked like the picturesque scenic drive that preceded it. They were built for people who think of England as a nation full of turn-over grannies taking Earl Grey and tell stories about the war.

The XF, the new XJ, larger, these people are in your dust and established a bold new direction for Jaguar style. Traditional virtues as powerful engines and a sumptuous cabin, but the contemporary form of XF Jaguar stands out as one for the 21 st century.

2011 Jaguar XF Midsize received a warm reception in the first two years of production. We love its rich nature, the highlighted items, such as the console attached to the Start button, which pulses red and round the gear selector that rises to the console when the engine comes to life. Of course, it is also driving exceptionally well, wonderful V8 power and an excellent balance between handling and comfort. XF Supercharged also exist comparison test with the segment supporters Audi, BMW and Mercedes.

Jaguar's main change for 2011 is to reverse the previous base model 4.2-liter V8 for the more powerful 5.0-liter V8, which began in 2010 XF Premium. The naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8 pumping 385 horsepower in both models, while the XF Supercharged is familiar (yes) a supercharged engine good for 470 HP enormous. The supercharged XFR peaks of the line with an even stronger engine supercharged XF estimated 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. With more aggressive engine also gains made XFR other performances, unique interior and exterior enhancements and user-selectable modes for the suspension.

A more powerful engine for entry-level XF is an act worthy of a third car that has already been established as an outstanding example of the class. The XF Premium standard equipment is generous to continue to maintain a strong appeal to the buyer of a normal luxury car, while the XF Supercharged and in particular the XFR give buyers of a BMW M5 or Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG result s' stop at a Jaguar dealership. 2011 Jaguar XF All deserve a place in the "reader" list if you are considering a sedan in this price range. The XF has its peculiarities and its critics, but the mix of on-road drive from sophisticated high-tech features and interior British firm is particularly attractive.

Body styles, trim levels and options

In 2011 Jaguar XF is a luxury sedan available through four trim levels: base XE, XF and XF Premium XFR Supercharged. Standard equipment for the XF base includes 18-inch wheels, halogen headlights, rear parking sensors, sunroof, automatic headlamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless ignition, leather upholstery and heated front seats with 10 channels electrically adjustable with memory functions of the driver. Also standard is Bluetooth, a navigation system, voice-activated controls and a stereo with nine speakers CD changer for six, an auxiliary audio input jack, an audio interface and portable satellite radio. Vision Package adds front parking sensors, a rearview camera and a blind spot warning system.

The XF Premium Package includes the Vision and adds 19-inch wheels, bi-Xenon auto-leveling headlights, heated and cooled front seats, leather-trimmed instrument panel and door trim, the choice of trim and keyless start and entry. Portfolio Package adds 20-inch wheels, 16 way driver and 12 power seats and passengers with climate control, contrasting stitching furniture, fittings in ebony, a heated steering wheel and a touch of power to the telescope back. The window shade, heated steering wheel and 19-inch wheels are among the options independently of the XF base.

Optional for the XF and XF Premium is a Bowers & Wilkins surround sound system with 14 speakers and HD radio. New for 2011 is the addition of an in-dash six-disc CD system with B & W. The XF Premium can also be equipped with adaptive cruise control, heated steering wheel and windshield and a rear sunshade and independent options.

The XF Supercharged comes standard with a supercharged V8 engine, 20-inch wheels and four tailpipes. Autonomous options Supercharged models include adaptive cruise control, heated windshield, and a single row suede. Jaguar XFR Supercharged adds even more power, unique 20-inch wheels, adaptive suspension, larger brakes, a locking rear differential specialized settings and unique additional seats

Propulsion and Performance

In 2011 Jaguar XF has three engines in four models, each with a level trim. Base XF and XF Premium sports a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 385 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. The XF Supercharged version has a supercharged 5.0-liter V8's 470 hp and 424 valued at lb-ft. The XFR is a compressor 5.0-liter V8 with more power, starting at 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. All send their grunts to the rear wheels through a six-speed automatic transmission that includes a sport mode and paddle shifters. The estimates for fuel economy naturally aspirated 5.0-liter engine are 16 city/23 highway/19 combined. Estimates for the XFR Supercharged 15/21/17.

The performance is as impressive as the engine specification would suggest. In recent tests, a Jaguar XF Premium ran to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds, while a XFR needs only 4.5 seconds. With the acceleration of the sports car even heavier luxury cars must meet the most demanding of drivers.

Security

Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, stability and traction control, front seat airbags, front airbags seat side, curtain airbags and active head restraints. A rearview camera and a blind spot warning system is optional on the base and standard on the XF Supercharged XF XF Premium XFR.

Braking for the XF range is particularly noteworthy. Under controlled conditions, we managed to bring to a stop XF Premium 60 mph in just 106 meters - a distance usually associated with high-performance sports cars. During the test, XFR need an equally impressive 108 feet to stop.

Interior Design and Special Features

The interiors Jaguar XF is a bold step forward, as traditionally frumpy British brand and size luxury sedan segment. The console-mounted start button pulses red like a real cat's heart beat deep. Pressing fire the engine of life, and then turns a gear selector rises into the palm of the hand of the driver, as four openings to open and rotate into position. Some may find this production a bit 'tricky, but the XF is back with a soft leather tastefully applied wood and attractive design. In general, is the standout segment, generally known as a cottage conservative.

There are some ergonomic faux pas, however. Most of the audio, climate, navigation and Bluetooth phone functions are controlled via a central touch screen, and while the menus are logically arranged, some of the virtual buttons are too small. Moreover, it unnecessarily swoopy graphics make for a long processing time. The center console has a few physical buttons are welcome to adjust the climate system, but those who are devoted to audio controls are useless and, in general, this property could be better used. Rear outward visibility is even worse than average.

As for space, they will find in front a generous amount, but more people sitting in the back may find their heads to graze on the roof - the XF is not as spacious as the class of 5 series or E. The tribe, however, are quite spacious 17 cubic feet.

Guide

Allure smooth and velvety The 2011 Jaguar XF offers comfortable long distance, but there is an unexpected level of performance of a Jaguar sedan. Curves, the XF has considerable limitations grip surprisingly high. The steering is a little light and tender, but the XF is more fun to drive than many competitors.

The acceleration of the base 5.0-liter V8 is fast and fluid, but the supercharged V8 from the fusion of sweetness and supercharged XF takes you to another dimension of performance, to serve an endless wave of energy amazing. For those who want a Jaguar with claws even clearer, the 510-HP XFR adds even more to the management of the ablest and entertainment range.

Price $ 52,500

2011 Infiniti EX Review

Sometimes it feels like ancient history, but there was a day when the tall, sturdy wagon ruled the power to pull the family in America. Then came the SUV, ending the era and the birth of the second American families that turned into a long, fat, and vehicles for nearly three decades. But $ 4 a gallon of gas has broken the fastest part of the police, and as soon as the Americans began to concentrate more, hybrids and crossover vehicles derived.

As a luxury crossovers go, 2011 Infiniti EX (ex-EX35) to live in a small niche. He wants to show that it is actually a sports sedan under its high perch, and the back of the hold. It is a good example. EX wheelbase is 2 cm longer, and the ride height 1 inch longer than the Infiniti G37 sedan, which supports it. EX continues to lead the 3.5-liter V6 remains of the previous G35, but it finally arrives seven-speed automatic are offered throughout the rest of the Infiniti line.

In 2011, the EX gets a new look for outside wheels as standard on both trim levels of 18 inches. All models also get dual-zone climate, previously available only in higher-level trim. Inside the cabin, the EX is a great sport-luxury environment, leather upholstery, high-quality contact points, as well as a number of standard and optional high-tech, such as the innovative Infiniti Around View Monitor System Camera , which uses four cameras to a 360-degree view of the composite car parking. In 2011, the EX is also a blind spot warning system.

While the Infiniti EX 2011 can be one of the most agile crossovers in the segment, it is not the most versatile. Its back seat is not suitable for a long tail and its cargo area does not provide much more space than a large trunk. If it's space you need for passengers and freight, Audi Q5, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo XC60 GLK350 are valid alternatives. BMW X3 is also worth visiting as it is sport and it is more spacious inside. But if you love sports sedan dynamic small utility wagon and run a little above the fray, EX is an endearing oddity in this evolving segment.

Body styles, trim levels and options

In 2011, Infiniti EX is a five-seat crossover vehicle luxury available in the base and Journey trim levels. Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, automatic headlamps, fog lights, cruise control, keyless ignition / entry, heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, steering column with tilt and telescopic leather-wrapped steering wheel, eight-way driver and four-way passenger power seats (heated on AWD models), leather, two-tone interior treatments, a rearview camera and a stereo with six-speaker single CD player, radio, satellite and a USB connector.

Travel EX adds a sunroof, power steering, heated front seats, wood interior, auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, and an in-dash six-CD.

The most important travel options are limited. Premium Package includes a 11-speaker Bose audio system with single CD player, and 9 GB of storage of digital music, navigation system in real-time traffic and weather reports, Bluetooth audio streaming, multi-camera system, front parking and rear parking sensors, and air cleaner.

Touring deluxe package includes alloy wheels, 19 inch, adaptive xenon headlights, the memory functions of the driver, a passenger eight-way power seats, power seats, a folding rear seat and interior trim upgrades. The technology package provides a clue from prevention and warning systems, adaptive cruise control, Intelligent Brake Assist with collision warning and blind spot warning system.

Engines and performance

2011 Infiniti EX is available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The only engine is a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 297 horsepower and 253 pound-feet of torque. It is coupled with a new seven-speed automatic with manual editing.

In performance tests, a former RWD with the previous five-speed automatic pushes of zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds, fast, EX this year is probably a tenth or two faster still. Estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg highway and 20 mpg city/24 mpg combined the two rear wheels and four wheels.

Security

Standard safety equipment includes antilock disc brakes, traction control and stability, side airbags for front seats, side curtain airbags and active head restraints. The Technology package adds optional Forward Collision Warning (which uses the adaptive cruise control radar to warn drivers of an impending collision), intelligent brake assist (which automatically engages the brakes if the driver ignores FCW) and system track departure warning (which alerts the driver when the car starts to turn in another direction). In performance contracts braking test, stopping ex from 60 km / h in 118 feet, and a very good result for this class.

The Insurance Institute crash tests for Highway Safety, the EX has a score above "good" in frontal offset and side protection.

Interior Design and Special Features

EX is one of inviting in its class. Both trim levels offer high quality leather, aluminum (bottom) or maple (Journey) complete the interior with soft lines and contours pleasant. The front seats are supportive and the driving position is excellent, with Journey, the more power tilt and telescopic steering wheel. Controls for the climate, stereo and optional navigation systems are some of the most intuitive to use, as is standard with the iPod interface.

The rear seat is not as impressive as his legs becomes limited restraint on long trips. Cargo space is rather superficial at 18.6 cubic feet, the space behind the rear seats are only slightly higher than the trunk space of many sedans. Even with the seat backs folded, the less likely that competitors crossing.

Guide

The 2011 Infiniti EX is a pleasure to drive, even if you do not like SUVs. This is because the EX is actually more of a sports sedan with a high altitude. Based on the platform, the Infiniti G35, EX balances the almost perfect balance between ride quality and handling. Even with 18-inch wheels that feels comfortable on the floor, broken, strong but sensitive and hairpin bends. The V6 pulls strongly from almost any speed and the brakes are strong and easy to modulate. Those who opt for the EX sedan instead of the G series is not likely to miss the G slightly better overall dynamics.

Price $ 35,200