2010 & 2011 Volvo S40 Engines

When it comes to new additions, the 2010 is back with the 2.4i engine with a five speed manual gearbox while the T5 all wheel drive has a six speed manual transmission and the T5 R-design is the standard sedan driven by front wheels. The sedan’s head restraints have two positions and it has revised options. The general fuel consumption is improved in this version. For the 2011 version, there is no base 2.4i version and also the all wheel drive has been discontinued. The manufacturers have come up with a different look and performance by simply adding some extra features in the existing trim levels.

Different from the previous versions like the 2010 sedan, the 2011 Volvo S40 has bridged the gap between standards and premium versions. The gap has been filled by the introduction of an attractive 4-door luxury themed machine. The 2011 sedan is better than its predecessors but can not match up with other sophisticated European luxury cars. As for the 2010, it can be classified as the vehicle that can fulfill the dreams of an individual who cannot afford an expensive sedan and at the same time doesn’t want a very cheap car.

On a positive note, though the Volvo S40 has been in production for a while now; it still is impressive when it comes to the fresh look. This is more defined in the interior where there is a waterfall center stack that is available in two-tone upholstery, which separates this vehicle from all other types that are more conservative. Beneath the hood of this machine, there is a five-cylinder engine that provides 227 horsepower and a livelier acceleration compared to the four-cylinder sedan. Beyond these specs there are not a lot of things that can distinguish the S40 sedan. This car is not all that, but then again, there is no such thing as the perfect car as long as manufacturers are concerned. The 2011 Volvo S40 has its own benefits and some disadvantages, but the fact that people are still buying them means that the latter is in its minimum. It may not be as good as other popular sedans but it sure fills in the gap when it comes to wallet issues.

The 2011 S40 is available in 2 trims, the T5 R-Design and the T5. The T5 has a CD player with 8 speakers, HD USB/auxiliary and radio input jacks, an automatically imming rear view mirror, telescoping and tilting steering column, Bluetooth, cruise control. With additional packages, there can be more great features such as sunroof, powered passenger seat and leather upholstery, of course at an extra cost. The T5 R-Design possesses all these features but looks sportier with spoilers, side skirts, classic dial gauges, aluminum pedals and a sport steering wheel.

In both trims, there is an option for a car that is fit for any weather. Some of the features in this type are automatic windscreen wipers, auto controlled climate, head light washers and heated front seats. There is a multimedia package with 10 speakers not forgetting the navigation system that displays traffic real-time. A stand a lone option has 18-inch wheels, satellite radio, keyless entry and ignition, blind spot detection system, rear parking sensors and adaptive xenon headlamps. The 2010 version has most of all these features only that they are not as improved as the ones in the 2011 Volvo S40.

The base engine used in the 2010 version was cancelled and the 2011 S40 now is available only with turbocharged 2.5-liter engine. The engine provides a 227 horsepower and a 236-pound per feet torque. The all wheel drive was cancelled and the 5-speed auto transmission drives the front wheels at an acceleration of 0 to 60 mile per hour under 6.7 seconds. The fuel consumption is estimated to be 30 miles per gallon on highway, 21 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon for the combination of both. This is an improvement from the 2010 S40, which does 60 mph in less than 8.4 seconds with 28 miles per gallon on the highway, 20 miles per gallon in the city and 23 miles per galloon in both.

The Volvo S40′s Safety Standards & Interior

For safety, the 2011 S40 has a standard anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control.  The front seats have side airbags and front head restraints for the purpose of reducing whiplash. There is an option of a blind spot warning system. The S40 is among the safest cars in crashes. This has been proved by strenuous crash testing procedures; the 2011 is  safer compared to the 2010 version. The ratings are as follows, 5 stars for the safety of the driver in frontal crashes, 5 stars for frontal crash passenger protection and 5 stars for side and rear impact protection. In fact, the S40 was rated best in frontal crash protection and came second in side impact tests.

The interior of the S40 is created and deigned using good materials with well-shaped seats that provide comfort for long distances. The R-Design has a leather interior that is a good option of a youthful spirit. The climate control is easy to operate but the navigation system is a bit of disappointment with its outdated graphics and menus, and it’s burdened with a lot of not easy to use controls.

The 2011 Volvo S40, with its supercharged 5-cylinder engine, is a great machine for drivers who love power. This car is stable on curvy roads thought the competition from other models in high.

How does it look?

A test drive of the CTS coupe can bring out its superiority on tarmac. This is because it is a high performance vehicle; fulfilling the desires of speed lovers. The design appears to be aggressive and gives any driver the need for speed before sitting behind the wheel. The standard coupe is not the same as the other supercharged versions but still delivers.   The angles in this version is not all that but the exterior still boasts of a great design with hard edges. The car has a wedge shape that is enhanced by perpendicular and parallel lines combined with open plains and tight angles. The shape starts at the bottom grille of the front fascia and extends to the back. The headlamps are designed in an irregular shape which sets the width of the vehicle. Moving from the headlamps backwards it’s difficult to avoid noticing the 19-inch allow wheels having seven well crafted spokes.

The main reason why everyone tends to move their eyes toward the back is because the shape demands it. There is no interruption at any point because the coupe version has C6 corvette-style doors in place of the more traditional handle doors. At the back there is a centered dual exhaust outlet with a vertical line that runs from the top and divides the two outlets. The car leans towards its anticipation owing to the raise rear end.

The Cadillac CTS Coupe Interior

The cabin looks like a combination of sporty and luxurious touches but the materials used tend to say otherwise. Contrary to other dash boards in other cars, the dash in the 2011 CTS does not have padding beneath the leather and consequently feels hard as a rock. There is a metallic colored plastic surrounding the center stack which is a bit complex thanks to the buttons that are not easy to read especially if you pass a quick glance.

The base price of the coupe is set at $38,165 with a premium version that can be acquired for $51,030 because of the additional special features such as headlamps with high intensity discharge, heated and cooled front seats that can be power adjusted in ten different ways, an improved Bose sound system, ambient lighting in the interior, Bluetooth, heated steering wheel and a navigation system with a touch screen with a camera for the rear view displays.

The down side is that the base price rises from the $38,165 mark to a staggering $47,010. This can hit the $50,000 mark as a result of purchasing the extras such as the steering wheel with shift controls, the summer tire performance with the 19 inch alloys, a brake upgrade and other additional charges.

The fact that the CTS coupe comes in two doors tells a lot about what type of a car it is. This is probably the type of car that is meant for two people and the rear seats should be use to carry small items and not people. The front is comfortable and luxurious but complaining about lack of ample space in the back is not reasonable for a two door coupe. It would be like complaining of too much space in a minivan.

The most important part of driving is the windscreen, which allows you to see where you are going. Well, this is taken care of in the 2011 Cadillac CTS coupe thanks to the massive slab of glass used. Trying to see what is at the sides can be tricky but the coupe has got all this covered with the use of a rear view camera display that makes reversing the car child’s play, though you need to pay more attention when switching lanes. There is a touch screen display on top of the center stack that is used for interfacing with the infotainment system and also used for navigation. The display at its normal position in the dash shows basic information about the audio system but can rise and display more functions. For safety reasons, it is advisable to keep the screen hidden but it automatically deploys every time the car is being reversed to display the rear view.

Does it stop?

The braking system can seem to be a bit tricky and if you are not yet used to it you will find the connection between the braking action and the pedal application not communicating effectively. With time it is easy to get used to the process and you won’t have to be forced towards the safety belt every time you brake. The aerodynamic styling used in making the CTS puts it at a better performance position compared to coupes from other manufacturers. German manufacturers have the say when it comes to cabin quality and though the Cadillac’s interior is comfortable it can not compete with the qualities that the BMW, Audi or Benz possess. However, Cadillac is superior when it comes to the engine performance and fuel consumption. Every aspect of Cadillac’s 2011 CTS coupe contributes to the performance and beauty of this machine.

Looking at the coupe, you can classify it in a sports and luxury category, but after driving it for a while you will notice that though the exterior is outstanding and the interior super
cool, the luxury part is over shadowed by the sporty appearance and feel. The 2011 CTS coupe has earned Cadillac a Masters degree in science and art used in the motor industry.  The 2011 CTS coupe is the ultimate sports machine with an element of luxury.

So what are the specs?

The CTS coupe comes with Cadillac’s direct injected V6 putting up 304 horsepower.

Upgrading the Cadillac’s CTS-V Coupe will bring you up to 556 hp as a result of a supercharged V8. Plus, you’ll be upgrading to 19 inch wheels and some amazing sport seats.

The car can rocket from 0 to 62.14 mph or 100 km/h in about four and a half seconds with a top speed of 155.34 mph or 250 km/h. The car is compact and weighs about 3,472.28 or 1,575 kilograms and the fuel consumption is an amazing 26 mpg and the emission of carbon dioxide is at 341.18 g/mile or 212 g CO2/km. All this is possible by the technology used in the regenerative system, which is meant to recover some energy during the car’s decelerations.

The RS3′s Engine

The 2011 Audi RS3 has a 2.5-liter engine that will surely thrill the passengers because it has a strong pulling power and the 6,800-rpm. The Audi engine’s growling  and roaring soundtrack combined with the signature 5-cylinder firing order creates a strength feeling in the car and gives the driver gobs of power on the road. There is a flap in the exhaust system that is controlled by the sport button, also used in varying engine response, and is used to further intensify the sound.

The 5-cylinder engines have a history in Audi. It was used to edge out the existing competition in race cars in the 80s. The first RS model, 94, had one of these engine types. The engine now is redefined and has earned the top position in engines ranked by a panel of automotive journalists. This means that the engine is created to have high performance and the general parameters used in it will yield great elasticity and excellent acceleration values.

At just about 403 pounds and 19.29 inches the Audi RS3′s 5-cylinder unit is super compact. The vermicular-graphite cast iron use in making the crankcase is a light weight but strong material that contributes a lot in the overall light weight of the unit. In fact, this material has been used in gasoline engines for the first time by Audi. The block loadability is further enhanced by the reinforcement’s which are perfectly placed. The light weight design is meant to keep the weight of the Audi RS3 in check so that it can pay off when it comes to axle load distribution which translates to an excellent and ultimate car handling.

What about boost?

The 2011 Audi RS3 has a turbocharger that is responsible for up to a 1.2 bar pressure boost while the intercooler achieves a cool 80% efficiency. Just like other Audi gasoline turbo engines, the RS3’s unit combines the turbo charging with FSI direct injection system. The combination of the two technologies create high compression ratio (about 10:1) and consequently raise the efficiency ratio. The air is mixed as it is flowing in by the flaps positioned and the intake tract. The mixture formation is further enhanced by the two adjustable (by 42 degrees – crankshaft rotation) camshafts.

Audi RS3′s Transmission

The S Tronic, seven-speed, transmits power straight from the 5-cylinder engine through three shafts. Two of these are output shafts while the other one is the drive shaft. The car has two transmission structures since it is a dual-clutch transmission. This results in a smooth shifting process which takes a very short time during the clutch switch. The two clutches make sure that there is no power interruption during the shifting process. The seventh gear, being very tall, is the ultimate way of saving on fuel consumption.

There is a choice of two automatic modes and a manual mode. The gear shift can be made through the selector lever or via the paddles on the wheel. The control system  manages to launch the car from a dead zero to the explosive turbo power while maintaining the car’s stability and minimum tire slip. The all-wheel drive gives the RS3 dynamics, stability and traction. The main component is its multi-plate clutch that is electronically controlled and placed at the propeller shaft’s end for the purpose of achieving an advantage in axle load distribution.

The famous Audi Quattro

Quattro enables the distribution of propulsive power to all the axles as required. Every time there is slip in any of the axles, the oil pressure is increased in a jiffy by an electric  powered pump. The two clutch plates are pressed on each other in a similar continuous motion which permits the redirection of torque accordingly. No matter how many words are used to describe this process the duration of time the actual process is much faster than the description. This is just to make sure that there are no interruptions caused by the slip.

The stiff body lays the cornerstone in the RS3 handling but the chassis makes everything fall in place. There is a four-link suspension that has a 60.16 inches track anchored to the sub frame. The front suspension is more widened but still has a separate sub frame. The major components of the construction are aluminum. The vertical support is provided by the shock absorbers and the coil springs. Compared to the A3, the sports suspension lowers the RS3 body by 0.98 inches.

The Audi RS3′s Interior

In the interior, there are a number of logos reminding the passenger that they are inside an Audi RS3. The interior comes in black with leather seats that are stitched in contrasting silver stitching. The car has a flat bottomed steering wheel, all leather and multifunctional. The instruments and the selector lever are uniquely designed. The driver information includes a lap timer, boost pressure and the oil temperature. The 2011 Audi RS3 comes with different standard equipment, such as the Sport button, climate control, xenon headlights, chorus radio system, and rear parking system.

The 2011 Audi RS3 not only comes with Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, but the new version will also enjoy the new S Tronic 7-speed transmission from Audi. This transmission uses a tall 7th gear that increases the efficiency levels of the vehicle at motorway speeds. Though the car is sporty, the exterior can appear as though it was a business car.

The dodge challenger SRT8 392 is a step towards showcasing the improvement in performance. This 2011 version is the grand return, to the streets, of the famous 392-cubic inch power train. The engine beneath the hood has the kind of power that most muscle car enthusiasts dream of. It pumps out 470 horsepower, which creates 470 pound per foot of torque. The HEMI engine installed in the new SRT cars creates a further 90 pounds per foot of torque with 2,900 rotations per minute (rpm), which is stronger than the previous version. The additional torque makes it possible to have an inspired standing start as well as an improved performance. Plus, the new motor mounts are tuned to improve ride control and idle stability.

There are two options when it comes to the gear box, it’s either the automatic transmission which is a standard five speed or the 6-speed manual transmission which first made a debut in the 2008 Viper SRT10. Dodge made sure that the shifting in the 2011 version is made easier via the installation of a heavy-duty clutch. Just like its predecessors, the 2011 Dodge SRT8 has am impressive performance in the street and will make heads turn, it can move from 0 to 60 mph in less than 4 seconds. Compared to other cars in its class, this speed puts it at its own position of excellence.

There is a new technology used in this version that allows it to use four cylinders therefore saving a lot on fuel. This does not mean that the vehicle cannot be all-powerful; the engine can use all the eight cylinders when required. This can only be found in the automatic transmission model. The valve covers together with the logo and the silver painted ribs give the engine a clean but aggressive appearance. The exhaust system has been redesigned; this has resulted into a note with a lot of strength that commands a lot of
respect from onlookers both on the racetrack and the street.

The 2011 Dodge SRT8 will have an exclusive exterior as well and interior. The body works will be improved and there will be two colors or the striped combination. You can either choose the bright white coat with Viper Blue stripes or the deep-water blue combined with store white stripes. The front grille, in this model only, comes in the body color. This makes the car look so natural from the front, and makes the grille look like it
is attached to the body completely.

This car lives up to its name, challenger, in terms of torque and horsepower ratings. The quad tip exhaust adds a note of performance and completes the rear, which gives the car a look of a modern muscle machine. The car rolls on 20-inch wheels, which feature satin black pockets and a polished face. The interior is race themed. The white leather seats bring this out with a special blue stitching that matches with the unique blue stripes. The center stack and the instruments have a high performance look that is created by the clean silver metal finish. The interior of this car creates a feeling of racing and when the car starts moving, the racing feeling becomes a reality.

The body shape still maintains the Dodge look that is aerodynamic and when looked at closely reveals the impression of a vehicle that has stability superiority on the road at any speed. The front fender spats and the front splitter, which results in an overall balance and high speed, create the aerodynamic shape. The top speed now lies at 173mph for the automatic transmission and 180 mph for the manual transmission. The fascia has been modified and also contributes to the aerodynamics and is also painted to give the vehicle an improved aggressive look. The rear spoiler is also painted to match with the body color.

There is a new interior styling for the Dodge Challenger SRT. The steering wheel comes in a right size that has three metallic painted spokes and a wheel that is leather covered.  This is a sporty look especially because the spokes are positioned at 9, 6 and 3 o’clock. The instrument panel has a new unique graphics and chromed accent rings; this gives the gauge cluster a more mechanical look that suggests that the vehicle is a high-speed machine. Powered front seats are standard for the Dodge challenger SRT8 models. The front seats have a seatback tilt that has memory and thus the seats are easy to use.

On the road the 2011 Dodge challenger SRT8 is easy to handle and maintains the ability to challenge different situations. The suspension geometry was recalibrated to improve the steering responsiveness, cornering ability and the balance. The challenger now has quicker steering ratios that improve its appetite for speed. The steering is powered, fully hydraulic, with a heavy-duty pump, which gives the drive a direct feel of the wheels.  All these features have worked together to create a Dodge SRT8 that will challenge its rivals in every aspect of performance. This is not the best of Dodge but before they make anything better than this, then this is the muscle car to purchase.

Quick Challenger SRT8 Specs

The 6.4L Hemi V8 of the SRT8 will pump out 475hp & 460 lb/ft of torque.

The 5.7L Hemi of the R/T will be pounding out 379hp & 410 lb/ft of torque.

The price range is supposed to be in the range of $25000 – $43000.

MotorTrend’s Video Review of the SRT8 2011 Challenger

Final Thoughts

I wouldn’t mind finding one of these beauties in my garage this spring. What do you think about the new 2011 Dodge Challenger SRT8? Let us know in the comments below.

The jeep brand was established in 2002 and has ever since dominated the mid-sized SUV world. There have been improvements along the way, which has brought us to the new 2011 Jeep Liberty.

Scope
The 2011 Jeep Liberty is a 176.9 inch long and 72.4 inches wide vehicle with a 106.1 inch wheel base. It has a curb weight of 3985 lbs with the gross weight reaching 5600 lbs. The luggage capacity is 31.5 cu. Ft. and a maximum cargo capacity of 64 cu. ft. The maximum seating comfortable seating capacity is five.

Performance
Beneath the hood of the 2011 Jeep Liberty is a V6, 3.7 liter engine with 6 cylinders and a 210 Horsepower. The engine has a maximum rpm of 5200 and a 235 ft-lbs torque. The maximum payload that the jeep can handle without strain is 1150 lbs and a towing max capacity of 3500 lbs.

Fuel consumption
The 2011 Liberty has a fuel tank that holds 19.5 gallons. The fuel consumption approximation is: 16 mpg in the city, 22 mpg on the highway and an average of 18 mpg for the city and the highway combined. The Jeep liberty is petrol driven machine though there was a short-lived diesel version. With a full tank you can drive the Jeep for 312 miles in the city, 429 miles on the highway and 351 miles for the combination on average.

Features
Mechanical features that make the 2011 Jeep Liberty outstanding include; a 3.7 displacement V6 single overhead cam engine. The gas engine has 12 valves that manage to give it a 210 horsepower at 5200 rpm. The Jeep also has a fuel cut-off when decelerating to economize on the fuel.

The sport utility is a 4 x 2 rear wheel drive with a brake hill holder. It is fitted with a tachometer, a clock and a low fuel indicator to complete its instrumentation.
The 2011 Jeep Liberty sports 16 x 7.0 alloy wheels fitted with all season tires. It has  a temporary spare tire, a steel spare wheel and an underbody mounted full size spare tire. The windscreen is fitted with intermittent wipers and the rear window with a defogger and a wiper.

Safety and comfort
Safety features that stand out in the 2011 Jeep Liberty are the ABS brake system with electronic brake force distribution, emergency braking assist, traction and stability control, fitted head air bags in the front and rear, occupant-sensing passenger airbags, front and rear seatbelts, tire pressure monitors, engine immobilizer, dusk sensing head lamp, 2 rear and front headrests passenger’s and driver’s whiplash protection, child seat anchors and safety door lock.

To travel comfortably the Jeep Liberty can hold 4 passengers and the driver. The front seats are made in a bucket design to enhance comfort. Rear seats have a folding and reclining ability. It is easy to operate doors band windows as they are powered with the windows being heated. The 2011 Jeep has cruise control on a power tilt-adjustable steering wheel. The accessory power was retained as from the 2010 version. There are cup holders at the front and door pockets. The Jeep is air conditioned with interior air filtration. There are both rear and front reading lights.  Another feature is duel illuminating vanity mirrors.

For people interested in music, the 2011 Jeep Liberty has got you covered as it has a CD Mp3 player with a total of six speakers. The Jeep comes with a 12 months subscription to satellite radio and an auxiliary MP3 output. The vehicle also has an AM/FM radio, a 6.5-inch touch screen, a 30 GB hard drive and a Garmin navigation system.

General car Info
The 2011 Jeep Liberty retains the SUV look but with better features. The new version has more cargo and storage space and improved seats for comfort. It comes with a sliding sunroof that allows an open air experience while driving. There are features fitted in the

new Jeep that makes it better than other Jeep versions like the remote start and memory seats. The 2011 Jeep Liberty lives up to its tough exterior look by being able to cruise rough terrain which is a trait not found in its SUV competitors. Steep approach and departure angles and exceptional suspension makes it easy for the Jeep to travel off-road. This is simply an all road sport utility vehicle.

Even with the improvements the Jeep may not be able to compete well with other SUVs because of its performance and fuel consumption. Apart from this the advantages and the
features of the new 2011 Jeep Liberty beats the down side by far.

The jeep is a good off-road vehicle for urban people with the desires of driving off the pavement. The safety of the Jeep has been proven through many test drives to come up with the current features that will ensure the safety of the drivers and their passengers.

The 2011 Jeep Liberty is available in either a six-speed manual gearbox or a four-speed automatic transmission. You can also choose to get the 4 x 2 sport trim or the 4 x 4 limited versions. When ordering for your 2011 Jeep Liberty you can specify the color you want or choose from the available four new exterior colors. The exterior can show some improvements as the curves are more defined and the body more aerodynamic. With more dashboard functions and added controls on the steering wheel, it is so comfortable and easy to manage a 2011 Jeep Liberty.

Prices
There is a difference in prices of the 2011 Jeep liberty depending on the trim you want to purchase. All the models have a 3.7 liter V6 engine with 210 horsepower. The prices range from $23, 250 for the Sport utility to $28,250 for the limited edition sport utility, the other one which is the Renegade comes in between for $27,250. You can be able to get Jeep accessories at a price.

Generally the 2011 Jeep Liberty’s prices did not change but the features were definitely upgraded. Whichever trim you choose to drive, just remember that Jeep is a machine that allows you to cruise in the city, on highways and in rugged terrain if you must.

Final thoughts from the editor

I love this little truck. For the price it’s one of the best ways to get off road out there. The fuel economy sucks, and it’s not going to win any speed records, but when it comes to the trails you get Jeep’s legendary track record and reputation for quality.

Had an experience with a Jeep Liberty? Thinking of buying a 2011 Jeep Liberty? Let us know in the comments below.

Ford offers three types of Mustang to choose from; you can go with the standard or base V-6, the GT V-8 or the spectacular Shelby GT supercharged V-8. You should not waste your money trying to acquire the older 2010 version as the 2011 renders it inferior and you should definitely not have much expectation in the 2012 version as they will not have major differences. The engineers working on this new version have really brought out the muscle car aspect of the Mustang and incorporated advanced technology to make one awesome super car.

The Ford engineers have souped-up the engine and increased the horsepower to a staggering 305 in just the V6 model. The engine block is now made of aluminum thus lighter than the normal cast blocks. The smooth touches on its exterior are more defined than ever but it still retains the signature grille, emblem and the side stripe. The 2011 Mustang is user-friendly because even though there is an increase in horsepower, speed in general and the installation of a 6 speed gearbox, fuel consumption is an outstanding 30 miles per gallon.

As far as the shape, that is something that is a looker as well.  The shape of the new Mustang borrows a lot from the design on the Mustang from the 60s and 70s but with a few touches on the tail and the nose not only to make it look modern but also contribute towards the streamlined shape for more speed and road stability.

Changes and Upgrades
Though you cannot spot the major differences between the 2011 version and its predecessors by just looking at it, if you drive the car you will have an experience out of this world. It is only then that you will realize the effort put into this version by dedicated Ford engineers.

Major changes can be noticed beneath the hood as the 3.7-liter 2011 Mustang has 95 hp more than the 2010 version which is a 4.0-litre. This makes the 2011 version more economical but with a more powerful engine.

The newer version has been fitted with twin variable camshaft timing and a genuine dual exhaust which together work to increase the rpm to a staggering 7,000, which is 1000 rpm over the previous version.

Technology has advanced and Ford has not been left behind, a lot of electronic work has been done to improve the ease of driving a Mustang including:

• There is use of computerized operations including a Ford’s MyKey teen-driver-safety installation. With this you can limit the speed and the audio volume of your car. You can also keep the traction-control engaged and activate unbuckled seatbelt reminders.
• The side mirrors are now powered with blind spot reduction using convex inserts.
• The 2011 Mustang now sports halogen headlamps and three-lens tail lamps with sequential indicator illumination.
• The switch to a powered steering has reduced drag considerably and consequently reduced the fuel consumption.
• There is an introduction of a software; “Active Nibble Control” which monitors the condition of wheels and compensates for any road clowning and crosswind.
• You will also have cruise control with power adjustable seats, air conditioning and automatic climate control, power windows and door locks with a remote lock and unlock function, stability control and ABS brakes.
• The 17” standard wheels have been replaced by the 19”alloy wheels with performance tread. The suspension is more reinforced and firmer.
• There is an audio navigation system, an electric sunroof option and a convertible version for convertible lovers, heated seats with airbags designed to protect the head and torso.
• All the options have an MP3 fitted with a 1,000 watt output.
• There is also the use of an infotainment sync system developed by Microsoft for Ford. It has USB and iPod ports and a Bluetooth phone link and music streaming.
• There are 100 fancy shades available for the illumination of the dashboard.

2011 Mustang Performance

The 2011 Ford Mustang has been tested on all aspects regarding performance by subjecting it to extreme conditions.  For a 3.7 liter with a speed of up to 160mph, the 2011 Mustang has got it figured out. The combination of so much power with low fuel consumption of up to 31 miles per gallon will be in the interest of most drivers.

This car also offers world class stability with an aerodynamic shape which gives the car a sport look and allows top speeds. Front and rear anti-roll bars have been made thicker for safety precautions. With the new improvement in the breaking system, you will be sure to avoid those small accidents. With between 7,000 and 8,000 rpm the 2011 Ford Mustang is surely a speed vehicle and with all the improvements and upgrades its performance is better and more fulfilling.

The 2011 Mustang GT

Finally the return of the 5 Litre mustang! This brand new 5.0L powered Mustang will pump out 412 ponies and 390 lb-ft of torque. To get all of the power to the ground you get the option of either a 6 speed automatic or a 6 speed manual transmission. All of that and a estimated fuel economy of 25 miles to the gallon? That sounds pretty kick ass to us.

“This all-new 5.0-liter engine is the next chapter in the development of the world-class Mustang powertrain portfolio,” said Derrick Kuzak, group vice president, Global Product Development. “It’s a thoroughly modern engine for the times, delivering the performance and fun-to-drive factor that enthusiasts want, while improving fuel economy.”

How much for the super car?

For the quality and features of a 2011 Ford Mustang you will have to part with between $22,000 for a base version and $54,000 for a Shelby GT500 convertible depending on your specifications. You can choose to drive the base Mustang version, The Mustang GT, or the Mustang Shelby depending on your wallet and needs.

This is not expensive for people looking for speed, power, style, comfort and high performance not forgetting the fuel economy attribute of the 2011 Ford Mustang. You should also budget for transport shipping charges when planning to make a purchase.

For every version there is premium trim that comes with an additional $2,500 price tag. These premium trims have added accessories that make them more expensive. For example they will have leather interiors, aluminum accent dashboards and dressed up gauge clusters with automatic color illuminations. For an automatic transmission you can add an extra $995 for a base or GT model. You can also have a navigation kit installed at a price of $2,340.

In simple words, whatever extra accessory or feature you want in your car will demand you to cough up some extra cash. Although this does not mean that the 2011 Mustang in its base version is not a wonder. All in all the 2011 Ford Mustang gives you a ton of bang for the buck, some raw muscle and classic lines, and even some modern comforts.

Final Thoughts from the editor

I owned a ’95 5.0L mustang back in the day and it was one of the most fun cars I’ve had the chance to drive. Sure it didn’t handle well, it over-steered all the time and had too much weight up front… but I loved that car and it peeled rubber with no problems at all. Had an old 5.0 Litre at some point? Let me know in the comments below.

Features, Updates, and Upgrades:

Now, both the GLK350 (the rear wheel drive model) AND the GLK350 4MATIC (which is an all wheel drive machine) host a 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft Torque. Some of the updates to the new vehicle class include a more usable Headlight Control mechanism and Premium Leather Steering Wheel. The 2011 Mercedes-Benz GLK class also offers some fantastic safety improvements, such as the new Knee Airbag, Driver/Passenger Pelvic Airbags, and a brand new

Rear View Camera. These safety amenities were added to the 2011 class to keep it at the same level as the rest of Mercedes’ mainstream models. They even added a new paint to the GLK, an option to coat the vehicle “Pearl Beige Metallic.” The additional color will be limited in production and is likely to carry a little extra in price, but if really speaks to you, we recommend you go for it.

The New GLK Sports Package:

In regards to the aesthetic enhancements of the GLK, improvements to appearance and performance, the GLK even offers a new AMG Sports Package that includes AMG bumpers, LED

Daytime Running Lights, Aluminum Roof Rails and 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke wheels. The AMG package that Mercedes provides certainly does make a dramatic difference in how the vehicle looks and feels, and it even provides the user with a much-improved driver handling. However,  this package may not be everybody, as some may find the driving experience to be stiff and uncomfortable, it depends on personal preference for the most part. It is highly recommended that you test drive the vehicle with and without the AMG package to determine if you’ll find it worth spending the extra dollars on.

The GLK Positioning:

In addition to GLK series, Mercedes also offers a full spectrum of Sports Utility Vehicles, such as the M-Class Mid Size, the GL-Class – Full Size, and the High-Performance All-Terrain G Class SUVs. The GL is the full size, where the GLK is a short version, utilizing the K to represent “Kurze,” the German word for Short. The GLK class is the compact version of the full size GL Sports Utility Vehicle. The similarities between the two models are, however, thin and far between. It seems they share most in common in that they are both SUV’s, but they are quite individual creations besides their common classification.

The Value of the GLK-Class:

Not all that many people understand exactly how manufacturers like Mercedes test their models. Before the GLK-Class became available to the general public, engineers working for the Mercedes-Benz team tested it at extreme lengths. They tested its endurance extensively and subjected it to two years worth of examination and observation to assure its high quality endurance. At the end of the day, with Mercedes-Benz, you get what you pay for. The entire experience is created with luxury in mind, and the price tag reflects value and reason. With pricing that starts under $35,000, it’s clear to see the value in this Sports Utility Vehicle.

How does the Mercedes-Benz GLK-Class compare to the C-Class?

These two models are unlikely to compare, one being a Sedan and the other being an SUV, but oddly enough there are some points of comparison. For instance, the price on both models start for under 35 grand and yet the GLK-Class provides much more in just about every field: engine, horsepower, capacity, and seating. It is possibly the most valuable luxury vehicle on the market, and you’re sure to get the most for your buck. It even has a more luxurious aesthetic to it, making it a fine selection for everyday travel. The C-class, however, does offer some value in its sport look, sleek design, and precedential resale value, which can come in handy for many leasers.

In sum…

This vehicle is pure value, and when it comes down to it, you’ll be hard-pressed to find another SUV with the luxurious offerings of the GLK Class without a higher price tag. The true gold of this vehicle is how much it offers for such a reasonable price, from its World Class design, safety technology, performance, amenities, and of course the powerful brand of Mercedes-Benz. If you’re looking for a luxury sports utility vehicle with plenty of function and a reasonable price, the Mercedes-Benz GLK Class may be the model to go for.

Specs and Gallery:

• Engine: 3.5L V 6 double overhead cam with VVT ( 10.7 :1 compression ratio ; four valves per cylinder)
• Fuel: premium unleaded ( 91 octane)
• Fuel consumption: city= 16 (mpg); highway= 21 (mpg); combined= 18 (mpg); vehicle range: 313 miles
• Multi-point injection fuel system
• 17.4 gallon fuel tank
• Power: 268 HP ( 200 kW) @ 6,000 rpm; 258 ft lb of torque ( 350 Nm) @ 2,400 rpm