Review of Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 2012

With the approach of 2012 already, Toyota features a new big surprise awaiting the bio-lovers, it is definitely the 2012 TOYOTA Prius Plug-in Hybrid, a brand new zero emission Prius guaranteeing fuel efficiency as good as 61.0 km/liter.

Toyota – after many years of doggedly proclaiming that the hybrid system of Prius wasn’t suitable for a plug-in system, and consistently cautioning that lithium-battery-driven plug-in hybrid cars had been very expensive and the technology is still unproven, will introduce the Prius Plug-in Hybrid in the market in coming March. Simply the most identified hybrid car on the US roads, the brand new Prius with-a-plug redefines ideal marksmanship. Here is a short review of the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid.

Toyota Prius 2012 Plug-in Hybrid – What to expect?

Since the hybrid leader and pioneer, it seems sensible that Toyota might be the leaders in the subsequent affordable gasoline-electric technology.  The prime advantage of using a plug-in hybrid is not that it may be driven solely on electricity for numerous miles, but the fact that it removes range anxiety.  Once the battery runs out, the Prius Plug-in just turns into a traditional hybrid and can be again refueled with gasoline fuel when required and provides fuel economy which exceeds gasoline-powered automobiles.

Generally, Toyota’s stand is that plug-in hybrid and hybrid vehicles having smaller and cheaper battery packs – as opposed to pure electric powered cars having larger and extremely costly packs – offer the maximum versatility and value for customers overall.  Whilst the car by itself is sure to catch your attention, the debate is whether the Prius Plug-in too heavily priced?

Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid 2012 Features

Looks:

When Toyota Prius initially arrived, it did not gain significant appreciation for its looks. Read more »

Review of 2012 Honda Civic

The recently launched all-new, re-designed Honda Civic 2012 though more or less similar in shape to the earlier one, has subtle changes such as sculpted bumpers, a longer hood, and bigger tail lights, all of which give it a more conventional look. But best of all, it has better fuel economy thanks to different weight reducing measures and aerodynamic designing. Honda maintains that the new Civic has a reduced coefficient of drag mainly due to the styling modifications, a flat underbody, and a smaller grille opening.

The Honda Civic 2012 comes in both sedan and coupe styles and comprises five variants –Civic Sedan and Civic Coupe; Civic Si Sedan and Civic Si Coupe; Civic HF; Civic  Hybrid; and the soon to be released Civic GX which will be a Natural Gas Vehicle. The cars will be available in DX, LX, EX, and EX-L trim levels.

Honda has made some structural changes in the Civic 2012. The front A-pillars have been moved forward while the rear C-pillars have been moved backwards. The new Civic is a little more spacious. The interior passenger volume is increased to a maximum of 94.7 cubic feet, with more room in the shoulder, front and the rear hip, and the boot is also bigger. However, the earlier two-tiered instrument panel has been retained with the digital speedometer placed above the analog tachometer. Another feature that has also been retained is the five-speed automatic transmission. All variants have electronic power steering and also a better vehicle stability system that includes electronic brake distribution, anti-lock brakes, and brake assist. Where safety is concerned, the 2012 Civic has six airbags which include the front pair, the front-seat-mounted side-impact bags and the side curtain airbags. The seats have front-active headrests that move forward in the event of rear-end collisions.

Except for the Civic Si and the Civic hybrid, all the new Civic sedans and coupes have a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that can produce 140 hp and 128 lb-ft of torque. The engine’s i-VTEC valve control system delivers the performance of a larger engine while at the same time offering the fuel economy of a smaller engine.

Honda’s performance oriented sport compacts, the Civic Si coupe and sedan, both feature a 2.4-L engine producing 200 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque, and have a sport-tuned suspension. The engine is connected to a new six-speed manual transmission, enabling the Si to give 22 mpg on city roads and 31 mpg on highways. Read more »

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation launched the super efficient 4WD sedan called the Lancer Evolution GSR-X in 2007.  The world watched with bated breath, as the new Mitsubishi Lancer Evo rolled out with a stylish and sleek exterior, modern interior designs, new engine and platform.  The main idea behind developing the super model was to make it safe for the car driving customers and at the same time makes it very fast.

This super model of Mitsubishi Lancer Evo is based on the most recent applications in automobile engineering technology.  The control system of the vehicle is dynamic and it incorporates the super all wheel control.  The clutch system is very efficient.  This modern car is essentially a high performance car for the new generation that combines safety, security and speed.  In other words, this model was designed keeping the safety and interests of the driver in mind.

All the models of this series are equipped with the super all wheel control.  This modern system helps in managing the various component functions.  It helps in reflecting and reading the intent of the driver in a quick time for various situations.  It also helps in regulating the drive torque and the force on each wheel when the brakes are applied.  This ensures supreme peace of mind to the drivers.

This model is not very heavy since the equipments used are designed in such a way that the model feels light and weighs light.  The exterior of this vehicle is highly stylish and looks sophisticated.  The roof of the Evo X  is designed in such a way that when the vehicle is traveling at full speed, it cuts through the air and glides leading to better airflow over the roof of the car.  Even the underbody airflow in the model is exhausted more efficiently due to the unique diffuser design.  The rear view of the vehicle is also splendid.

The interior makeup of the vehicle is breathtaking and the driver of the vehicle feels very comfortable while driving.  A lot of importance is given to operational and functional elements.  The seats are designed in such a way that even during long journeys there is no trace of stress, tiredness or fatigue.  The seats are designed by a company called Recaro which provides seats with excellent hold and location.  The front seat is designed in such a way that it resembles a bucket that is full.  The steering wheel is small in diameter and ensures smooth driving.  The steering wheel is adorned with a leather wrap which provides an out of the world experience.

This wonderful model is powered by an engine that is turbocharged and it greatly increases the efficiency.  The engine essentially consists of four cylinders, with each cylinder having a capacity of two liters.  This engine develops enormous power and generates a very high torque.  The engine is environment friendly and is light in weight.  For those who love to go for long drives, this vehicle provides optimum thrill and excitement.  This car can accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in just five seconds.

Truly, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution GSR-X is a superb high performance car which is also street legal has breathtaking features.  Mitsubishi Lancer Evo GSR-X was also awarded the Best Performance Car under $50K and it is a dream come true for all performance car lovers.  If you are looking for performance cars from Japan which are also street legal, please get in touch with us with your requirements.

Technorati Tags: Lancer Evo, Mitsubishi Lancer, GSR-X, Lancer Evo GSR-X, performance car

The 2010 Mazda Tribute for all intents and purposes seems the perfect SUV with its completely modern attributes.   The Tribute is labeled to be a cloned replica of the Ford Escape, and it purports the typical gamut of advantages and disadvantages of the Ford Escape.  Features to its advantage are the sleek bodyline and a uniquely styled exterior,  superior class V6 or four-cylinder engine as per choice and the surpassing the best in safety standards.  There are, however, a few flaws in the Mazda Tribute, which keep it from being the best among other SUVs in the same class.  You can find all the features of Mazda Tribute 2010 in this review.

The 2010 Mazda Tribute is available in two models – the i model available in Grand Touring, Touring and Sport levels having five speed manual transmission, a 2.5-liter four cylinder engine producing 171 hp with 171 lf-ft of torque, and the s model has a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine which is only available on a Grand Touring level and is paired to a six-speed automatic.  The V6 produces 240 hp with 233 lb-ft of torque.

The Touring is equipped with audio controls on the steering wheel, a power driver seat, tinted rear windows and a roof carrier.  The Sport is air-conditioned with all power accessories, CD player, cruise control, back-up audio jack, ambient temperature gauge and automatic headlamps.  The Grand Touring has an advanced audio system along with a rearview mirror that also supports a display for the back-up camera, leather upholstery, heated front seats and side mirrors and a sunroof.

The front seats of the Mazda Tribute are strongly supported and secure.  Though the rear seat is spacious for adults, it lacks adjustments to allow for recline.  To fold the seat down – one needs to remove the headrests, tip the bottom cushions and then lower the seatbacks.  There is only a 29 cu ft cargo space available with the second row seat up and when lowered offers 66 cu ft – less than what is offered by RAV4 from Toyota and the CR-V from Honda.  But the build quality and the control layout of the Mazda are impressive.

There are few weaknesses in the Mazda Tribute.  Its interior is behind the times; some fundamental features that are standard among the newer SUVs are lacking like the easily foldable and reclining-cum-sliding backseat and the vertically adjustable steering wheel.  The quality of the multimedia interface called “Sync” which is compatible with portable equipment like audio gadgets and cell phones allowing sound control and is the leading USP of the Mercury Mariner and the Ford Escape, is not all that good.

The unibody structure of the Mazda SUV Tribute gives it a firm and sportier feel making the handling and ride easier unlike other SUVs that have a body-on-chassis kind of frame that rattles and is tougher to handle.  The 2010 Mazda Tribute is well equipped in terms of safety with stability and traction control, antilock brakes and front-seat and side curtain airbags.

Technorati Tags: Mazda SUV, 2010 Mazda Tribute

Leading Japanese Family Vehicles for 2010

Potential car buyers have questions regarding the best family cars to buy from the automotive retail outlet.  Would it accommodate all the members of a family?  What is the luggage capacity if going on a vacation?  Is it fuel efficient? Here are two of the leading family vehicles of model year 2010. Among the leading choices for family vehicles from Japanese car makers,  Toyota Sienna and Mazda CX-9 are considered the best buy for the year 2010.

2010 Toyota Sienna

The Toyota Sienna minivan is here to stay and in spite of the downsizing happening around the world, Toyota stands by manufacturing new vehicles.

The 2010 Toyota Sienna sports an elegant exterior and is a pride to drive around.  It comes with a choice of two engines – a 3.5L V-6 engine which is fuel-efficient and produces 266 hp with a towing capacity of 3,500 lb., and a 2.7L 4-cylinder engine that generates 187 hp. Both are fitted with 6-speed smooth-shifting automatic transmission.

Toyota offers the new Sienna with interior options like reclining captain’s chairs in the second row, increased seating to hold seven to eight passengers, a center console that slides, leather upholstery, storage bins and cup holders, and a 10-speaker Bose audio system.  The seats can be adjusted to almost any configuration or height conceivable.  The new Sienna can take even pack plenty of luggage for a two-week vacation easily.

An eight-passenger Sport Edition V-6 model is also available aerodynamic sculpted, regular 19-inch wheels and side skirts effecting low-ground visuals.  This could perhaps be considered the perfect family vehicle.

2011 Mazda CX-9

This Japanese brand from Mazda is being produced in line with the RX-8 coupe and the MX-5 Miata roadster and is a five-door people-hauling wagon in the class of crossovers.

This CX-9 is a CUV having agile rack-and-pinion system of power-driven steering attributes.  It has a traction control system, and four-wheel disc brakes electronic brake force distribution, an electronic connection to an antilock brake system, dynamic stability control to make up for lateral skidding and a system to control traction.

Empowered by a V-6 engine transferring 3.7 liters, the CX-9 has a ratio of 10.3:1 for high compression.  The V-6 has an output of 273 hp at 6,250 rpm with the torque that can escalate up to 270 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm.

The cabin of the CX-9 is laid out in three rows of seats and a cargo hold in the aft bay.  The first row consists of two bucket seats that are bolstered and a floor console.  Three passengers can be accommodated in the second row in the bench-style seat with lounge backrests and five inches of front and back sliding space.  The third row is styled in a split bench to accommodate adults also. The wagon’s cargo space can be increased by folding the second and third-row benches flat.

To summarize, Toyota Sienna is an ideal choice for large families on a budget.  The CX-9 crossover that has sporty handing and sleek styling is a dutiful family-mover too.

Technorati Tags: best family cars, Japanese car, Toyota Sienna, Mazda CX-9

Honda Accord has been the best selling and most popular Japanese car especially in the United States for almost fifteen years from 1982-1997.  Honda started manufacturing the Accord mid size sedans in 1976.  There have been several different versions and styles of the Accord since then.  Amongst them, the seventh generation (2002-2008) of Honda Accord has been the most popular used car from Japan in global markets.  Honda Accord is considered one of the most reliable cars around the world.

Here we provide you with a review of the  Honda Accord 2004 model.

The 2004 model of Accord is considered one of the best and most popular exported  mid-size car from Japan.  In the past decade, it has proved to be a best seller amongst mid-size cars.

If you are wondering whether to purchase a used Honda Accord, now would be a good time.  You will avoid steep rates of depreciation which occur in brand new cars.  You will be able to get a Honda Accord 2004  at a much lower price.  Honda Accord is a car respected for its high resale value, so all in all it makes for a good investment.

This stylish car is powered with an iVTEC 4-cylinder engine and brings with it a 6 speed manual transmission.  You can also have an optional 5-speed automatic transmission.  Its standard equipment consists of power windows, ‘dual zone’ climate control, CD player, cruise control, adjustable tilt-reach steering wheel, theft alarm,  ABS/EBD equipped 4-wheel disc brakes, alloy wheels, Vehicle Stability Assist, side airbags and dual airbags.

This car has a distinctive stylish wedge design which makes it appealing.  Other features such as chrome mirrors and handles add to its grandeur.  The interior is plush and the spacious leg room and cabin storage just add to its plus points.

The Honda Accords powerful engine and 5 speed auto transmissions go well with each other and give a performance which is ideal for suburban commuting and highway driving. The 5 speed auto transmission has very smooth shifting. The fuel efficiency is exceptional in city driving as well as highway driving.

Poor roads surfaces are hardly a pain with the high quality of suspension in the Honda Accord 2004 model.  Even the brakes are strong & powerful and high in quality.  The 4-cylinder engine of iVTEC had amazing power and more than adequate torque making it spin effortlessly to reach the maximum revs.

To summarize,  Honda Accord 2004 boasts a powerful engine, quality construction, comprehensive features and great chassis dynamics.  It provides a smooth ride,  a tight build and has good scores in crash tests.  If you are looking for an efficient and powerful family car with stylish spacious interiors, we strongly recommend you to go for
Honda Accord 2004.

Technorati Tags: Japanese car, used car, Japan, Honda Accord, used Honda Accord, Honda Accord 2004

I have owned five cars since I started driving.  And this used Japanese car Toyota Hilux Surf (1996 model) which I bought from you six months ago, is by far the most enjoyable and versatile car I had driven so far.

In spite of being a 14 year old  car, it has no signs of rust on the body work;  it is well built and has a solid feel.  My Toyota Hilux Surf is quiet comfortable vehicle with ample  space for leg-room and is quite spacious for in the front as well as in the rear.  The boot-space is terrific too – there is plenty of space to lie out full stretch – great for camping expeditions.

I am completely satisfied with my Hilux Surf. Though I bought this used Toyota Hilux Surf at a bargain price,  I still haven’t faced any problems with its engine.   The Hilux Surf is good for transporting goods required for my business, and also a very sturdy and reliable companion for off-road journeys.

The interior looks typically Japanese and it comes with many extra features, from air-conditioner to power mirrors, windows, rear heater, sunroof, reclining rear seats, multi adjustable front seat and rear tailgate.

The 2.4 ton diesel delivers about 100 bhp and is just about adequate for a vehicle of this size, returning about 13 km per liter of diesel. The top speed is about 170 km/hr on this used Hilux.

I never had any problems about the reliability of this car. I change oil every 6000 km, not because the engine uses up too much oil but just to keep engine in proper working condition, Once I had a long drive for over 300 km covering hilly areas.  I went at full speed for hours together; yet, at the end of the journey when I checked the oil levels,  it was almost the same as it was when I had started.  That was a real surprise for me.

Toyota Hilux Surf has nice seating arrangement and with its 4×4 drive, you are able get nice driving experience, even on hilly, slippery or heavy snow clad roads.

I am very much satisfied with my purchase of this Toyota Hilux Surf.  Though it may not be one of the best looking car on earth,  it is very realistic and most importantly it never breaks. In short, Toyota Hilux Surf is quiet an amazing car and goes beyond all its expectations.  I would recommend this car to anyone who wants a car with good performance.  Now, I am planning to get one more ‘Hilux Surf’ exclusively for my family.

Customer Testimonial from Mr. Richard Kyle – South Africa

Technorati Tags: used Japanese car, Toyota Hilux Surf, used Toyota Hilux Surf, Hilux Surf, Japanese

The Nissan Cube manufactured by Japanese car maker Nissan is mini but Multi Purpose Vehicle (MPV).  The Japanese automaker is targeting young buyers to buy this mini Nissan Cube.  Presently Nissan Cube is mainly sold in North America, Europe and Japan.  The 1st generation of the Nissan Cube was established in Japan in 1998.  To maintain a proper balance between the Nissan lineups from Nissan March & Nissan Sunny, the Nissan Cube was created.  The 1st generation of the Nissan Cube was only sold in Japan.

The 3rd generation of the Nissan cube was released late last year in Japan.  The new Cube is a tall and made up of boxy kind of design. These features of Cube are more curved styling cue and rounded compared to its earlier generations.  Five people can be accommodated comfortably.  The rear hatch is attached in such a way so that it open along its vertical axis towards the curb.  Loading and unloading becomes easy with this feature if vehicle is parked in a very crowded street.  According to the designers of Nissan, the interior of cube is greatly inspired by the ‘enveloping curves of a Jacuzzi’ which try to exhibit a social and comfortable atmosphere.

Nissan is trying to promote its brand by convincing people that it is not a car but some new technology related stuff.  The Nissan’s target group is young techno savvy buyers.  Nissan is comparing its Cube with mobile or gadgets like iphone.  To select accessories is to “set your preferences” and to hit the road with friends is to “upload yourself and four buddies.”  Despite of the Nissan’s attempt to promote its car by using anti-car marketing strategy, one thing is for sure Nissan  Cube is made up of many good features like smooth steering, decent driver, passable handling, six-speed manual, powerful brakes and terrific low-speed maneuverability. The manual gear of Cube shifts smoothly. Moreover, it also has many safety features like anti-lock brakes with proper distribution between brake assist and brake-force, full array of air bags, safety gear for a low-end model, traction and stability controls.

The Nissan Cube is powered by 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine which is quiet good for urban city traffic as well as flat highway but less for driving on slopes. The Nissan Cube gives about 30 mpg highways, 28 mpg in city and 29 mpg combined result. The key advantage of a box shaped vehicle is vast space and so passenger space is quiet generous in Cube. Even though Nissan Cube is targeting young buyers, the room inside the car well enough for their well-spread and well-fed elders; even the cargo space is quiet big. Other features include good Visibility and tight turning circle which can attract young nervous drivers who Nissan thinks as their target audience. Apart from all these features it also includes options like shag carpeting at the centre of dash board which helps MP3 or cellphone from sliding around.

So now finally you would like to know what is the cost of Nissan Cube? Well, the start price of Nissan Cube is just around $14,385. On the whole Nissan Cube it is cool and useful car with a trendy twist. Though Nissan Cube is an ideal car for young buyers at the same time it is also a spacious, competent, and extremely comfortable family car.   

Technorati Tags: Nissan Cube, Japanese car, Japan, Nissan March, Nissan Sunny, Nissan