If you are one who is asking what the next BMW M5 will actually look like, then wait no more.  Our friends at TeamSpeed.com have an idea of what the newest BMW M5 (F10) will look like as shown in his latest renderings in addition to one from the infamous Jon Sibal found on M5Board.com.

The next BMW M5 is expected to be a monster sporting well over 500 horsepower through a turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 also found in the BMW X5M/X6M. Look for the real-deal M5 at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show.

[image sources: teamspeed.com, m5board.com/Jon Sibal]

The all-new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-550 sporty luxury sedan breaks new safety and design barriers to become one of the market’s best engineered and smartest sedans, a definite ‘trend setter’.

This all-new E-Class model is the ninth-generation of this highly successful model line with a total of more than 10-million produced over the past 60-years.

The design of the new E-Class sedan begins with a ‘cubist’ treatment of the trademark M-B twin-headlight face.  Two parallelogram white LED lights are recessed into the front fenders, bracketing the three-dimensional frame of the front grille.  The overall body shape features a sophisticated interplay between line and surfaces.  Taut, clearly defined lines help define large concave and convex surfaces.  In particular, a graceful line follows each rear wheel-well and shapes the muscular contours of the rear fenders.  The new car looks futuristic in many respects and is the world’s most aerodynamic sedan with a co-efficient of drag of just 0.25 giving back better fuel economy and less wind noise.

The car is available with four engine choices, the standard is the E350 liter with a 3.5 liter V6 making 268hp, the E550 comes with a 5.5 liter V8 making 382hp, the E350 BlueTEC comes with an innovative V6 turbodiesel that makes 210hp.  The high-performance E63 AMG is fitted with a 518hp 6.3 liter V8.  Any new E-Class is fun and easy to drive whether in sport or luxury trim.  All luxury models come with a comfort suspension while the sport models are fitted with a sport-tuned suspension that has stiffer shocks and springs as well as a slightly lower ride height.

Besides being one of the best designed and engineered sedans in the world today, the all-new 2010 E-Class models come with several ‘life-saving’ features thus becoming one of the safest vehicles to be driving in. The latest is the ‘Attention Assist’ system that can alert you to the first signs of drowsiness, a factor that causes more than 100,000 accidents a year.  A steering wheel sensor is coupled to smart software that uses 70 parameter to establish a unique driver profile during the first 20 minutes of driving.  Between 50 and 112mph, the system identifies the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy and triggers an audible warning, and a ‘Time for a Rest?’ message with a coffee cup icon that appears on the instrument cluster.  This is a fantastic crash avoidance system that really works to alert you.

Other examples of trailblazing innovations include: ‘Lane Keeping Assist’ which alerts you by simulating rumble strip vibration in the steering wheel if the car drifts from its lane with the turn signals on.  At speeds above 37mph, the system recognizes lane markings, thanks to a small camera in the windshield and a computer that analyzes the video images.  ‘Adaptive Highbeam Assist’ uses a small video camera to sense both headlights and taillights, then softly and automatically transition between high and low beam lighting.  ‘Night View Assist PLUS’ can now allow you to see pedestrians up to 300 feet earlier than before.  When the system recognizes pedestrians, they appear in the display with an outlined frame highlighting each person.  In contrast to passive systems that rely on thermal imaging, this active system bathes the road ahead with invisible infra-red light from two beams mounted in the Xenon high-intensity headlights.  Extending your ability to see ahead to nearly 500 feet, Night View Assist PLUS uses an infra-red camera in the windshield and displays the reflected images as highly detailed black & white video images in the instrument cluster.  The optional ‘DISTRONIC PLUS’ system now includes ‘Blind Spot Assist’ which monitors both blind spots behind the vehicle.  Whenever a turn signal is activated with a vehicle in the blind spot, you get a visual and audible warning.  DISTRONIC PLUS also incorporates ‘Park Assist’ which utilizes six radar sensors mounted behind the front and rear bumpers.  A low speeds the system scans available parking spaces and displays a ‘P’ in the dash if the car will fit in the space.  When the car’s in reverse, Park Assist displays a pictogram of the steering wheel and provides helpful steering guidance.  ‘PRE-SAFE’ Brake can automatically apply 100% braking in emergencies when your E-Class is equipped with the optional DISTRONIC PLUS system.  When PRE-SAFE Brake senses an impending collision, the system sounds three warning tones.  About 1.6 seconds before impact is likely, partial braking is automatically initiated, and the PRE-SAFE occupant protection system is activated.  If you still fail to react, full-power braking is initiated about 0.6 seconds before the collision, reducing the impact and effectively acting as an ‘electronic crumple zone’.

All E-Class models are equipped with ‘basic’ PRE-SAFE-the world’s first system that can sense and take protective measures before a crash.  The system first automatically tensions the seatbelts if the car senses an impending collision.  PRE-SAFE uses resettable electric tensioners in addition to the existing pyrotechnic belt tensioners.

In addition, if the front passenger seat is overly reclined or forward, PRE-SAFE automatically moves it to a more favorable crash position.  If the seat cushion angle of the front passenger seat is too shallow, it is also re-adjusted to help prevent submarining.  If the vehicle skids, often a precursor to a rollover, the system closes the sunroof and side windows.  If a crash is averted, the electric belt tensioners automatically relax and are ready to deploy again.  If necessary, PRE-SAFE reacts to fishtailing (oversteer) as well as ‘plowing (understeer) by using existing sensors for the electronic stability control system to measure steering angle, vehicle yaw and lateral acceleration.  Emergency braking can also trigger PRE-SAFE, which monitors sensors for the Brake Assist system as well.

Finally, the 2010 E-Class now comes with a new knee airbag for the driver and minimizes leg injuries in frontal collisions, while new pelvic airbags work with the existing curtain and side airbags to provide extra protection for front passengers in dangerous side-impact collisions.  With front airbags as well, the E-Class now boosts nine supplemental restraints, and rear side airbags are optionally available.

With the introduction of the all-new 2010 Mercedes-Benz E-Class sedan, you have the safest and smartest automobile to be driving or as a passenger.  Sensors galore help keep you awake, alert and safe at all times for you and your passengers.  It is a ‘tour‘d force’ of automotive safety.  Prices start at $49,475.00.

COPYRIGHT:2009:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

SPECIFICATIONS

Price: MSRP $56,300 Starting $46,475
Type: Midsize Sedan
Where Built: Germany
EPA Class: Midsize Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 191.7 in.
Width: 75.9 in.
Height: 57.7 in.
Wheel Base: 113.1 in.
Ground Clearance: 4.1 in.
Curb Weight: 4034 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 37.9 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 57.8 in.
Rear Head Room: 38.2 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 56.9 in.
Front Leg Room: 41.3 in.
Rear Leg Room: 35.8 in.
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu. ft.
Maximum Cargo Capacity: 16 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Acceleration (0-60 mph): 5.3 sec.
Base Number of Cylinders: 8
Base Engine Size: 5.5 liters
Base Engine Type: V8
Horsepower: 382 hp
Max Horsepower: 6000 rpm
Torque: 391 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 2800 rpm
Maximum Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs.
Drive Type: RWD
Turning Circle: 36.2 ft.

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Automatic: 16 mpg / 24 mpg / 18 mpg
Range in Miles:
Automatic: 337.6 mi. / 506.4 mi. / 379.8 mi.

I was a little slow on the up-take of finding this video. Better late than never… Here is the quite possibly the best Rental-Car commercial ever. Two ordinary guys decide to rent a Ferrari California and Audi R8 and turn their weekend into an extravaganza. No doubt that a hot car would get you some hot chicks and a good time. I might have to try this myself because it looks like fun! Check it out below. Enjoy!

Many automotive enthusiasts may have forgotten about the infamous Dodge Viper. It has always been around and with a new introduction of a “road racing” prepped Viper SRT10 ACR-X, it shows that the bad-ass American muscle car named after a mean snake is still in the game, stronger than ever and here to stay.

Racing enthusiasts will be happy to see Dodge pull the covers off of the new 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR-X that boasts 640 horsepower from a 8.4-liter V10. That’s about 40 more horses to add to the stable from previous versions of the ACR but this one will cost you about $110,000. Is it worth it? Well, here is a video, several images and full press release below to help you decide. Enjoy!

PRESS RELEASE

Dodge Targets Road Racing Enthusiasts With 2010 Viper SRT10 ACR-X

• Turn-key, spec-series racer aimed at continuing Dodge Viper’s storied racing history
• Dodge and Street and Racing Technology (SRT) team combine best performance attributes of Viper ACR with Viper Competition Coupe
• Latest special-edition Viper ACR offers improved on-track performance and safety
• Dodge Viper Cup spec series will debut in July 2010

Orlando, Fla., Dec 10, 2009 – Dodge today pulled the cover off the newest special-edition model of the 2010 Viper SRT10 lineup. The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X is a turn-key, non-street legal race car that is slated to make its on-track debut in the summer of 2010.

“The Dodge Viper ACR-X takes the performance attributes of Viper to an even higher level for a wide range of drivers starting with the grassroots racer all the way up to the professional,” said Ralph Gilles, President and CEO, Dodge Brand. “This project is a result of many years of performance engineering expertise from our SRT team, combined with the passion and dedication of Viper Nation, to keep the Viper racing tradition going strong on tracks around the country and the world.”

Combining the best performance attributes of the record-setting, street-legal Dodge Viper ACR (American Club Racer) and the safety equipment of championship-winning Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X is powered by the SRT-developed 8.4-liter V10, equipped with factory headers and a low-restriction exhaust system, that produces 640 horsepower (40 more than production model).

The suspension also is tuned and upgraded specifically for on-track usage, while the weight is lightened by a full 160 pounds (versus the standard production Viper) to take on even the most challenging road course. Additional aerodynamic upgrades improve downforce, while enhancing stability and significantly improving grip in high-speed cornering.

Similar to the Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, the Viper ACR-X contains factory-installed safety equipment such as a factory-designed roll cage, fuel cell and race seat. Additional racing components are added to meet the significant durability and reliability requirements for on-track competition.

In what will be the final year of production for the current generation Viper, the ACR-X is the third limited, special-edition model to be introduced by Dodge. “”We’re going to make 2010 the most exciting year for Viper yet with specially developed cars for the street and the track,” added Gilles. “The ACR-X is targeted at road-racing enthusiasts who want to successfully compete in our ultimate American sports car.”

Last month, the SRT team used a testing session at Laguna Seca raceway to shake down the Viper ACR-X for the first time. Behind the wheel was professional driver Kuno Wittmer from the SCCA Pro Racing SPEED World Challenge Touring Car Championship series, who was able to run consistent 1:31.00 lap times around the 2.238-mile, 11-turn course. Wittmer’s lap times were more than 3 seconds faster than the street-legal Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR that holds the production car track record at Laguna Seca raceway.

“The Dodge Viper ACR-X is incredible,” said Wittmer. “After a short warm up, I was running lap times as quick as exotic GT race cars. I was blown away by the power and acceleration, and even more surprised at how the ACR-X navigated the challenging Laguna Seca corners and how friendly it was to drive at the limit.

“All aspects of the car work together perfectly to plant all that horsepower and torque without issue,” Wittmer added. “This will be a great package for someone coming out of grassroots racing with a desire to step-up to GT level competition. Dodge nailed it with this one!”

The Viper SRT10 ACR-X is designed to compete in the Viper Racing League, Sports Car Club of America and National Auto Sport Association events.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will be approximately $110,000. Production is slated to begin in Spring 2010.

For more information on the Dodge Viper ACR-X, call Viper Race Headquarters at (888) 960-3333 or visit www.viperheadquarters.com

Dodge Viper Cup:

The Dodge Viper SRT10 ACR-X will make its on-track debut in July 2010 in a newly developed spec series called the Dodge Viper Cup, which will be sanctioned by the existing Viper Racing League. Each vehicle in the new series must be the new Viper ACR-X.

Two races per weekend for five weekends will make up the 10-race 2010 Dodge Viper Cup schedule which includes July 9-11 at Virginia International Raceway; August 14-15 at Hallett Raceway; September 11-12 at Pocono Raceway; October 1-3 at Miller Motorsports Park and October 22-24 at Daytona International Speedway.

A contingency program sponsored by Dodge Motorsports and Mopar will pay out more than $200,000 during 2010. Payouts for each race are in cash and Mopar vouchers come as credit toward purchase of Mopar parts and accessories.

Per Race Cash Mopar Voucher Total
1st $6,500 $1,000 $7,500
2nd $4,500 $500 $5,000
3rd $2,500 $250 $2,750
4th $1,250 $150 $1,400
5th $500 $100 $600

Additional cash awards will be made to the top-3 finishers in the Dodge Viper Cup. The 2010 champion will win $25,000, second-place will receive $10,000 and third-place will pay $5,000.

Viper Racing Heritage:

The Dodge Viper has enjoyed a successful racing heritage that began in 1996 with the original Viper racing entry, the GTS-R, which earned five international GT championships and the 1997-1999 FIA GT championships. It also posted an amazing overall win at the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona in 1999 – the first for a production-based American car.

The Dodge Viper Competition Coupe, introduced in 2003, delivered the next chapter with its coupe-shaped carbon/Kevlar body and a track-ready chassis, based on the Dodge Viper SRT10. The Viper Competition Coupe has continued the on-track prowess by capturing the 2004 SCCA Speed World Challenge GT title, championships in Formula D Drifting series in 2004 and 2006 and the British GT Championship in 2007 and 2008.

viperheadquarters.com:

Dodge has created a new website designed to showcase the Dodge Viper SRT10 both on the street and on the track. Check out the new online home for all things Viper at www.viperheadquarters.com

Viper Racing League:

The Viper Racing League is one race series within the group of three (including Challenge Series and Driving School) sanctioned by Viper Days. The series has 11-weekend events scheduled for the 2010 season at some of the country’s most prestigious race tracks. For more information including the 2010 race schedule, visit www.viperdays.com

In the ultimate battle who comes out on top when making rounds on the Castle Combe Circuit. Find out if it is Germany’s pride and joy, Audi’s iRobot or Japan’s infamous Godzilla. Autocar takes them all for a spin. Enjoy the video below!

Everyone wants to have an entry into the luxury sports sedan segment these days including, you would never guess, Kia! Yes, that’s right; Kia has introduced sketches of their upcoming Kia K9 luxury sedan. The counterparts rumored to be a part of this upcoming Korean luxury sports sedan are shared with the Hyundai Genesis sedan.  The Kia K9 would virtually be a sister car to that of the Genesis Sedan sporting a V8. Would that put a Kia up against the likings of an Audi A8 and BMW 7-series? Only time will tell. For now, enjoy the sketches of the upcoming Kia K9… and it is not a dog.

This year’s Festivals of Speed shows held in Orlando, FL and Miami, FL welcomed some of the most expensive and beautiful cars around. We were more than happy to be one of the many prominent sponsors of such an event. Below are two videos of the events, one covering Orlando and the other Miami. Enjoy!

Festivals of Speed Orlando, FL Video
World Class Car, Motorcycle, Watercraft and Aircraft Show

Festivals of Speed Miami, FL Video
Shot and edited by Left Lane 6 Films. Editor and camera op : William Brown and Thomas LItteer, Still Photography : Steven Moore, Audio: Ryan Cronin

View our exclusive images of the Festivals of Speed Orlando, FL event here!

The all-new 2010 Mazda 3s 4-door Grand Touring edition offers the consumer bolder styling, more power and performance, more comfortable interior and added standard safety systems.  The car is an overall sophistication that ventures beyond the sport-compact segment to rival import models costing thousands more.

Realizing that the Zoom-Zoom emotional spirit is both static and dynamic, Mazda gave the new 3i a more expressive and sophisticated interior and exterior with added sportiness.  New features-many of which are borrowed from the new Mazda6-are also introduced in here with the aid of exceeding constantly rising consumer expectations.

Ultimately, Mazda designed and engineered a whole new Mazda3 that blends the best of the first-generation with large and small refinements in countless areas. It begins with the bold grille that is purposely polarizing.  It is the new ‘face’ of Mazda.

The grille design also helps the new 3 distinguish itself from the new Mazda6.  However, the five-sided opening is still instantly recognizable as a strong Mazda design cue.  Likewise, the aggressively sculpted front fenders and hood share a clear family resemblance with the Mazda6 and RX-8.

Combining the two-medium-sized grille openings used previously into one larger opening also pays functional dividends.  Shifting the air-intake lower on the car increases the pressure of the flow.  As a result, the actual grille opening is 20% small than what was necessary with the previous generation Mazda3.  Most of the air is routed over the hood or around the sides of the car, yielding a significantly lower drag-coefficient, now rated 0.29 to 0.31.  Cars equipped with an automatic transmission have a second driver’s-side inlet opening that routes air through a heat exchanger.  The grille and various elements within its periphery are three dimensional so they literally flow into the surrounding surfaces.  The Mazda front badge is larger and prominently raised above the front body surface.

The front-to-rear rise of the beltline gives the Mazda3i a crouched, expectant look of an animal ready to pounce, and also provides functional benefits.  The low-in-front window opening provides excellent outward visibility.  The higher belt-line in the rear seat area gives occupants a greater sense of security, and the elevated decklid surface with the spoiler is both an aerodynamic aid and a means of maximizing trunk room.

The rear is now flat with a vivid LED taillamp execution and dual exhaust pipes in the 3i and 3s models.  Wind tunnel testing found that small deflectors located near the front tires and subtle adjustments to the upper-forward corners of the A-pillars, outside mirrors, windshield wipers, and taillamps also helped smooth air flow along the sides of the car.  The net gain was a 6% reduction in wind noise.  The new 3 is the most aerodynamic of the new breed of compact sport sedans.

On the inside the new Mazda3’s cockpit is configured to support you in a more dedicated manner than any sport-compact competitor.  Two large instrument clusters are carefully positioned and clearly marked to deliver engine and road speed information.  Key controls are located in the steering wheel spokes where they can be reached with minimum distraction.  A new Multi-Information Display screen containing navigation, audio, and trip information is positioned high on the instrument panel to avoid the need for you to refocus vision off the road ahead.  A second screen slightly to the right provides station frequency and climate control setting information.

Mazda’s ‘Human Machine Interface’ approach breaks the interior into three key zones: displays and controls used most frequently are located high and close to you to significantly reduce eye motion and refocusing; audio and climate controls are also elevated in the center stack to minimize the amount of head motion needed to change any setting; switches located on the door arm rest, steering column, and steering wheel are designed for intuitive operation so they can often be activated with no need for head or eye motion.  Responding to the knowledge gained from human-machine studies, the new Mazda3’s center console was elevated to shorten the reach to the shift lever and parking brake more by two inches.  From the pleasant sound of the chimes to the gradual rise of interior illumination, every Mazda3 interior design detail is carefully conceived and executed with high quality in mind.  Roof pillars and the beltline are designed to maximize outward visibility and the feeling of roomy openness.

The new instrument cluster panel top is a padded, seamless, and elegantly grained surface that sweeps from the center console to both A-pillars.  The center console holds two cupholders, a sliding armrest and a roomy storage box, before blending in a continuous curve into the instrument panel.  HVAC and audio controls are large, properly textured and illuminated to provide a visual feedback that a command has been received.  A damper is included to smooth the opening and closing of the small compartment built into the instrument panel, the overhead sunglasses storage box and the roomy glove box.  Ambient illumination, cruise-control, power windows/door locks, dual map lights, 2-12-volt plugs, illuminated vanity mirrors and three grab handles are standard in all Mazda3’s.

Improved seating comfort is the result of front cushions extended by 0.8 inches for enhanced thigh support.  Seatbacks are reshaped for more lumbar support and extended by 1.4 inches for added shoulder support.  Optional sport-seat upper bolsters are canted inward more aggressively for added restraint during hard cornering.  A segment-first eight-way driver’s seat with memory has been added to the option list.  Dual-zone automatic temperature control, heated seats, and a Bose Centerpoint audio system are other new features also not offered by other sport compact competitors.  The 5.1-channel surround sound system engineered cooperatively with Bose experts includes digital amplifier, noise cancellation technology and an array of ten premium speakers.

Loaded versions of the Mazda3 have a small-diameter leather wrapped/tilt/telescoping steering wheel and soft-touch surfaces finished with French-stitched seams.  Seating areas are available in black or dune colors in both close and leather.  All Mazda3 interiors feature a black instrument panel with pewter-painted accents and black carpeting.  All models feature a 60-40 split-folding rear seat with pull-down dual cupholders as standard to stretch the utility of the trunk.

The Mazda3’s new Multi-Information Display (MID) is patterned after the compact aftermarket navigational devices that provide guidance at an affordable price.  Controls located on the steering wheel select the information to be displayed on the 4.1 inch LCD color screen.  In addition to maps and turn-by-turn guidance, the screen conveys MP3 and i-Pod program information, trip data including fuel economy, plus various maintainance and alert messages.  A monochromatic readout MID is also without the navigational functions.

Advanced keyless entry allows Mazda3 drivers to unlock the doors and start the engine with the key fob in your pocket or purse.  A discrete door handle button and a start/stop button on the dash are used in lieu of a key.  The addition of Bluetooth capability in the new Mazda3 provides wireless mobile phone and audio player connections and hands-free operation.  Instrument panel and steering wheel switches can be used to sort through music selections.

Steering and braking accuracy and feedback that leads to avoiding collisions is one of the best ways to avoid problems.  Towards that end, the Mazda3 excels in agility, maneuverability and ease of control at the limits of braking and cornering adhesion.  Powerful disc brakes, ABS, and electro-hydraulic power steering are standard equipment.  Dynamic stability control and Traction Control are standard on most models.

The new Mazda 3s the first compacts on the market with an Adaptive Front Lighting system (AFS) containing self-leveling, bi-xenon (high and low beam) headlamps.  Standard equipment in the top Grand Touring trim level, the inner beam steers up to 15-degrees into the turn to expand the illumination pattern.  To minimize the likelihood of injury when a collision occurs, the Mazda3 uses a technology call Triple-H unibody design.  Efficient H-shaped reinforcements in the floor, roof, and side of the body structure resist intrusion and support crush zones at both ends of the car.  Six airbags and active head restraints are also standard.  Side-curtain airbags, which help protect all outboard occupants, are a fast-inflating design with 40% larger coverage area.

Mazda’s MZR engine family is widely regarded as one of the world’s most advanced forms of fuel-efficient, high-energy propulsion.  As before there are two distinct MZR four-cylinder engines available in the Mazda3, both of which offer outstanding performance and efficiency.

Mazda3i models are fitted with the MZR 2.0 liter, DOHC, all-aluminum engine making 148hp at 6,500rpm and 135lb.ft. of torque at 4,500rpm. It is mated to either a standard smooth-shifting manual box or a sophisticated, electronically controlled automatic with a manual-shift mode.  Both are fitted with five forward speeds.  EPA specs are excellent-25mpg/city and 33mpg/highway.

Mazda3s customers benefit from a healthier injection of Zoom-Zoom attributable to the new 2.5 liters of displacement.  This new engine is similar in most details to that found in the all-new 2009 Mazda6i.  Changes from the previous 2.3 liter I-4 unit include a fatter bore and a longer stroke packed into a cylinder block with unchanged external dimensions by using cylinder-bore liners made of a steel-molybdenum alloy offering strength and stiffness increases of 30%.  A forged-steel crankshaft provides the necessary stamina.  Twin balance shafts located in the oil sump cancel second-order noise and vibration, allowing this engine to sing up to its 6,200rpm redlines.  The deep skirt block is engineered for extra stiffness and main-bearing caps are integral with a ladder-type lower-block reinforcement.  To minimize the noise and vibration typically found on large displacement four-cylinder engines, the damper at the forward end of the crankshaft is equipped with two tuned masses.  At the output end, a new flexible flywheel also curbs NVH.

Fuel is delivered to the intake ports by an electronically controlled sequential injection system.  Ignition coils are modular units positioned directly above the spark plugs.  Shim-less bucket tappets require no maintenance.  Light-weight pistons are coated with a special anti-friction compound and fitted with low-tension rings for improved gas mileage.  Sintered powder-metal connecting rods and lighter, full-floating wrist pins minimize the reciprocating weight.  As a result, this engine hums as contently at 6,000rpm as it does at 2,000rpm.  Like the MZR 2.0 liter, the new 2.5 liter power-plant features variable intake valve timing and a two-mode composite intake manifold.  A 4-into-1 exhaust manifold improves cylinder scavenging and reduces the time necessary for the catalytic converter to warm to full operating temperature.  Dual tailpipes and specially tuned mufflers provide a pleasant exhaust note with a hint of mid-range boom or high-rpm thrash.

Providing 167hp at 6,000rpm and 168lb.ft. of torque at 4,00rpm, the MZR 2.5 liter engine is available with a smooth shifting six-speed manual or a five-speed electronically controlled automatic with manual shift control-again, borrowed from the larger, up-market Mazda6.  Despite an increase in power and displacement, fuel efficiency ratings show no loss over the 2009 2.3 liter models, with EPA figures of 21mpg/city and 29mpg/highway with the manual and 22mpg/city and 29mpg/highway with the new automatic.

A uniquely Mazda Active Adaptive Shift protocol provides the new 5-speed automatic with the performance and response that Mazda3 customers expect.  Part-throttle downshifts are delivered in sync with the nudge of the accelerator during passing.  When the car is braking aggressively in anticipation of cornering, the transmission also downshifts to add engine braking and to prepare for an expedient exit from the curve.  A wider overall ratio spread assists acceleration from standstill while also providing quieter and more efficient high cruising.  This new engine pulls mightily at launch and through the gears enabling the all-new 3s to race out to 60mph from a standstill in just 7sec.

By refining the strengths of the previous unibody, steering, brakes and suspension systems-instead of starting over with radically different designs-Mazda engineers delivered major improvements in ride and handling performance while also reducing several pounds from the unibody and chassis weight.  As before, the new Mazda3 rides on a 103.9in. wheelbase.  Wheel track dimensions are also unchanged.  A 3in. increase in length yields a lower drag coefficient and additional fuel capacity with the 2.5 liter engine.  Unibody bending stiffness has been increased a significant 7% by a major gain in the use of high-tensile-strength steel panels, by adding gussets in heavily loaded areas, such as the suspension mounting points, and by strategic increases in metal gauge thickness.  In addition, a technique call weld bonding first used in the new Mazda6 has also been applied to the Mazda3’s unibody construction.  At key locations-such as the door aperture areas-the combination of structural adhesion and spot welding greatly enhances the unibody’s flex resistance.  A stiffer structure also provides a quieter ride, improved suspension response to steering and cornering loads, and more stable cruising and braking performance.  The weight saving is a significant 24lbs.

Changes to the rubber-isolated front, and rigidly mounted rear, subframes also enhance rigidity while saving weight.  A new instrument panel support structure using two instead of the previous one steel reinforcement tubes saves 4.4lbs. while providing more solid support for the steering column.  Adding ribs to the inner door panels and increasing the size of the roof reinforcements bar yield major reductions in NVH.

To improve steering precision and feel, a third mounting point has been added near the center of the electro-hydraulic-assisted rack & pinion steering gear.  The diameter of the rack has been increased from 1.57-to-1.61in. for improved stiffness and to facilitate more precise calibration of the speed-dependent power assistance.

Because the previous car was so effective, suspension changes are modest.  The span between front and rear anti-roll bar support points has been widened by nearly 1in. to increase the effectiveness of the bars without raising their weight.  Minor changes to the steering geometry and the layout of the multi-link rear suspension diminish understeer during turn-in and oversteer while exiting a curve.  Front struts and rear monotube dampers are recalibrated for this new generation to take advantage of the more robust unibody structure and tire specification changes.  Its amazing that the all-new 3s rides and handles even better than before.  Turn-in is sharp and quick, there is no vibration when handling the steering wheel.  The suspension and steering are so well connected that you feel like you are part of the car, so harmonious is the new ride.  Engineers have found the ‘sweet spot’ by combining performance and comfort so well.

Power-assisted four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, electronic brake force distribution and brake assist are standard Mazda3 equipment.  Rotor sizes are 10.9in. and 10.4in. in back in the Mazda3i and 11.8in. and 11in. in back in Mazda3s models.  These larger rotors work in conjunction with the electronic enhancers to bring the new 3i and s to a shorter, more controlled stop.

As before, 205/55HR16in. all-season radial tires mounted on 6.5in. steel wheels, or available aluminum alloy, are standard Mazda3i equipment.  The more powerful Mazda3s models roll on larger 205/50V17in. all-season performance tires wrapped around 17X7in. aluminum alloy wheels.  These tires and wheels enhance ride comfort and traction.

New from front to back, from top to bottom, with heavily restyled bodies and updated or all-new powertrains, and a comprehensively revised interior, the 2010 Mazda3 four and 5-door hatchback models are ready to protect their ground in the popular and ever-growing sport compact segment.  The new car offers a level of content, style, dynamics and sophistication simply not seen elsewhere in the segment.

It is the best Mazda3 ever, and a sure winner!

COPYRIGHT:2009:HARVEY SCHWARTZ

Specifications

Price: MSRP $21,500 As-Tested $24,760
Type: Compact Sedan
Where Built: Japan
EPA Class: Compact Cars

Dimensions

Exterior
Length: 180.9 in. Width: 69.1 in.
Height: 57.9 in.
Wheel Base: 103.9 in.
Ground Clearance: 4.7 in.
Curb Weight: 2963 lbs.
Interior
Front Head Room: 38.9 in.
Front Hip Room: 53.7 in.
Front Shoulder Room: 54.9 in.
Rear Head Room: 37.5 in.
Rear Shoulder Room: 54 in.
Rear Hip Room: 52.2 in.
Front Leg Room: 42 in. Rear Leg Room: 36.2 in.
Luggage Capacity: 11.8 cu. ft.
Maximum Seating: 5

Performance Data

Base Number of Cylinders: 4
Base Engine Size: 2.5 liters
Base Engine Type: Inline 4
Horsepower: 167 hp
Max Horsepower: 6000 rpm
Torque: 168 ft-lbs.
Max Torque: 4000 rpm
Drive Type: FWD
Turning Circle: 34.2 ft.
0-60mph: 7.4 seconds

Fuel Data

Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gal.
EPA Mileage Estimates: (City/Highway/Combined)
Manual: 21 mpg / 29 mpg / 24 mpg
Range in Miles:
Manual: 333.9 mi. / 461.1 mi. / 381.6 mi.

This year the LA Auto Show kicks off with more than two-dozen world and North American debuts, and over 1,000 new cars, trucks, SUV’s & concepts on display. The LA Auto Show is one of the world’s largest, as over 1-million visitors are expected to attend during the show’s 10 day run. (Dec. 4th – 13th.)

We have included one video with Doug Brauner, a 14-year automotive broadcaster who hosts the show “The Car Czar” heard by more than 300,000 auto enthusiasts throughout the West coast. Doug is the senior feature reporter for the Telly Award winning show “DRIVE,” now on Discovery Networks.

The other video is from Fast Lane Daily. This highly energetic host is obviously on some good drugs but you have to look over that. He is actually trying to show you the cars on display.

Enjoy the videos below!

Love it or hate it, this is really it, the new 2011 Hyundai Sonata. We have witnessed several renditions of what the new Hyundai Sonata would look like and some of them were not off by far. The new stylish design resembles that of a VW Passat CC or even the Benz CLS with roof lines that mimic a coupe. Visually the car looks totally different from one end to the other.

Hyundai is no longer the “el-cheapo” car from Korea (same goes for the sister nameplate Kia), it is the one that gives Toyota’s Camry and Honda’s Accord a run for their money in more ways than just the 10-year powertrain warranty.

The 2011 Hyundai Sonata does not just go up against the normal run-of-the-mill Camry or Accord. It will duke it out with the hybrid versions because a new hybrid powertrain will be available later in 2010. This will be the first U.S. market Hyundai to get a new hybrid system. The standard powerplant will still get you 23 mpg city and 35 highway, just imagine the mpg figures of the hybrid version. You thought Toyota’s problems started and ended with the gas pedal recall. They may want to think again because there is a new sheriff in town that goes by the name Sonata, Hyundai Sonata.

[source: Hyundai]

PRESS RELEASE:

THE 2011 SONATA: THE NEW STANDARD FOR MIDSIZE SEDANS

Sonata Injects Emotion, Advanced Powertrains and Superior Quality into Bland Segment

LOS ANGELES, Dec. 2, 2009 – Hyundai today introduced its all-new 2011 Sonata at the

Los Angeles Auto Show. This marks the North American debut of the latest version of the popular midsize sedan, introducing Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design language and an all four-cylinder engine lineup to the U.S. market.

Sonata is the second vehicle in Hyundai’s 24/7 version 2.0 product initiative (seven new models in the next 24 months) following on the heels of the all-new Tucson. Production of Sonata will begin later this month at Hyundai’s U.S. plant in Alabama with retail sales beginning in January.

The 2011 Sonata represents a modern approach to the traditional midsize sedan segment by using only advanced four-cylinder engines, emotional design and luxury features offered with Hyundai’s strong value proposition. The 2011 Sonata poses some intriguing questions:

Why can’t a smart, solid sedan also have modern, sleek, sophisticated style?

Why pay so much to get a taste of luxury?

Why can’t an efficient four-cylinder engine give V6 power?

FLUIDIC SCULPTURE DESIGN LANGUAGE

Beginning with the 2011 Sonata and 2010 Tucson projects, Hyundai designers set to work about three and half years ago on Fluidic Sculpture. Fluidic Sculpture is a consistent, cohesive design language that will ripple through the entire Hyundai showroom. In developing the initial Sonata sketches, Hyundai designers considered the interplay of natural, fluid elements with more rigid surfaces and structures to create the illusion of constant motion. Inspired by nature, Fluidic Sculpture injects sophistication and dynamic angles into the shape of a vehicle and now serves as the core of Hyundai’s future design identity.

The exterior of the all-new Sonata is long, light and low. The high beltline allows for a long, sleek roofline accented by the third window. A monoform side profile includes flowing lines highlighted by a Hyundai signature chrome accent that spans the length of the car. Normally, this type of trim is only found around the windows. On the new Sonata, this trim extends out from the headlamps, juts up along the hood and through the beltline. The face is bold with a large powerful chrome grille and headlamps that integrate precise details. The stance is completed by 16-, 17- or 18-inch multi-spoke wheels.

The sophisticated look continues inside where Hyundai has created an upscale ambiance thanks to a flow-through center console and instrument panel. These flowing surfaces complement the exterior design and wrap around the driver and passengers.

HYUNDAI PACKAGING EFFICIENCY

The sleek design, combined with Hyundai’s expertise in interior packaging, has produced an interior that delivers class-leading comfort, functionality and practicality. A sleek roofline typically compromises headroom and interior volume but, at 120.2 cubic feet, the Sonata has the most interior volume of its key competitors. It is so spacious, Sonata continues to be classified by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as a Large car, truly a “class above” Camry, Altima, Fusion and Malibu (all are categorized as Midsize cars). Even in trunk room, the Sonata shines. Sonata’s 16.4 cu. ft. of trunk space gives it a 9.3 percent advantage over the Camry, and a 17.1 percent advantage over Accord.

2011 Sonata2010 Camry2010 Accord2010 Altima2010 Fusion2010 MalibuPassenger volume (cu. ft.)

103.8	101.4	106.0	100.7	100.3	97.7
Cargo volume (cu. ft.)	16.4	15.0	14.0	15.3	16.5	15.1
Total interior volume (cu. ft.)	120.2	116.4	120.0	116.0	116.8	112.8
EPA size classification	Large	Midsize	Large	Midsize	Midsize	Midsize

ADVANCED POWERTRAINS

The new Sonata will launch with Hyundai’s new Theta II GDI 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with a Gasoline Direct-Injection (GDI) fuel delivery system, which contributes to improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions. Sonata is the first midsize sedan to adopt GDI technology as standard equipment in a naturally aspirated powertain. This shorter, more direct path of fuel delivery, allows for greater control of the fuel mixture at the optimum moment, thus improving efficiency. The fuel is injected by a camshaft-driven, high pressure pump that operates at pressures up to 2,175 psi. Direct injection also utilizes a higher than normal 11.3:1 compression ratio for increased power. The pistons are “dished” to increase combustion efficiency in the cylinder. This powerplant will deliver best-in-class fuel economy, best-in-class four-cylinder horsepower and best-in-class torque.

Sonata delivers an impressive 23 mpg city/35 mpg highway estimated fuel economy rating^* with the available six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC^®. (When equipped with the six-speed manual, the Sonata achieves an estimated 23 mpg city/34 mpg highway fuel economy rating). The preliminary horsepower and torque ratings for the Theta II GDI are 198 horsepower and 184 lb.-ft. of torque. In the SE trim which includes a standard dual exhaust, the engine delivers 200 horsepower. This high-tech, all-aluminum, 16-valve engine features Continuously Variable Valve Timing (CVVT) on both camshafts and a Variable Induction System (VIS) for better engine breathing. A version of this engine also meets Partial Zero Emission Vehicle (PZEV) standards.

2011 Sonata (est.) 2010 Camry 2010 Accord 2010 Altima 2010 Fusion 2010 Malibu Engine

	2.4L I4	2.5L I4	2.4L I4	2.5L I4	2.5L I4
Horsepower	198 @ 6300	169 @ 6000	177 @ 6500	175 @ 5600	175 @ 6000	169 @ 6400
Specific output (HP/Liter)	82.5	67.6	73.8	70.0	70.0	70.4
Torque	184 @ 4250	167 @ 4100	161 @ 4300	180 @ 3900	172 @ 4500	160 @ 4500
Fuel economy (A/T)	23/35	22/33	22/31	23/31	23/34	22/33

Next year, Hyundai will add a 2.0-liter Theta II turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine and a 2.4-liter Hybrid Blue Drive model featuring Hyundai’s breakthrough lithium polymer battery pack. Details about these powertrains will be announced at the 2010 New York Auto Show. Sonata’s innovative segment first powertrain lineup is a key driver of Hyundai’s goal to be the most fuel-efficient automaker on the planet.

SIX-SPEED AUTOMATIC AND MANUAL TRANSMISSIONS

Hyundai’s commitment to making the Sonata extremely fuel efficient continues with a six-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC manual control or a standard six-speed manual transaxle.

Hyundai’s all-new six-speed automatic A6MF2 transaxle helps the company meet its goals of improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Shifts are silky-smooth with an option of manual control through the SHIFTRONIC feature.

Drivers can access the SHIFTRONIC feature by moving the gear selector into a separate gate. Pushing the selector forward or pulling it rearward will shift the transmission up or down sequentially, adding to driver control. The SE trim will also feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters. A clear LCD readout on the instrument panel shows the gear being used.

Designed for transverse engine applications in passenger cars and SUVs, the new compact transmission puts Hyundai into an elite class of auto manufacturers who have designed their own proprietary six-speed automatic transmissions. The strength of the design is its unique layout which makes it smaller, more compact and lighter than any other six-speed transmission on the market today.

For the customer, the new six-speed delivers a performance edge. In this application, it helps brings a nine percent gain in fuel economy (35 mpg^* versus 32 mpg). The gearbox has no dipstick because it is filled with automatic transmission fluid that is good for the life of the vehicle under normal usage conditions, thereby reducing maintenance costs.

Developed over a four-year period, this new six-speed automatic is 26.4 pounds lighter than the five-speed it replaces. It also is 1.6 inches shorter and considerably simpler, having 62 fewer parts, which is a key to increased durability, lighter weight and lower cost.

When it comes to transmissions, more gears are definitely better. The addition of a sixth gear enables closer spacing between gear ratios providing a better balance of performance and fuel economy while the wide overall gear ratio helps deliver strong acceleration.

The gearbox has three planetary gearsets and a unique flat torque converter that shortens the unit’s overall length by 0.47 inches. Four pinion differentials improve durability and further minimize size.

Another example of engineering ingenuity is found in the design of the hydraulic pressure control unit. Slight manufacturing deviations from one solenoid valve to the next often times cause fluctuation in the hydraulic pressure and affect shift precision and quality. The transmission featured in the Sonata cleverly integrates adjustment screws in the valves that enable each of the eight valves to be calibrated at the factory. This feature ensures stable hydraulic pressure at any shift point which facilitates a high degree of precision and control needed to deliver fast, smooth and precise shifts throughout the rpm range.

SUPPLE RIDE, AGILE HANDLING

An advanced four-wheel independent suspension system combines a supple ride with precise handling and steering response for Sonata GLS and Limited models. Sonata uses MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension systems with increased travel for improved wheel control and a smoother ride. All four wheels are controlled by coil springs, fade-resistant gas-charged dampers and stabilizer bars. The suspension has been optimized to keep the vehicle flat during corning and provide quick turn-in response. The rear suspension uses aluminum components to reduce weight and improve suspension performance. The GLS and Limited models also use advanced low-rolling resistance tires to improve fuel economy while maintaining good ride and handling performance.

The Sonata SE is an even more exciting and willing partner for drivers who prefer sportier ride and handling dynamics. The sport-tuned suspension features stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, resulting in a 20 percent increase in roll stiffness. Unique SE dampers, including monotube shocks in the rear are used to control the more aggressive suspension. Low profile 18-inch tires round out the unique chassis components of the Sonata SE.

All Sonatas have column-mounted, motor-driven electric power steering that adjusts instantly to changing driving conditions while improving fuel economy over a conventional steering system. A quick-ratio steering rack is used for crisp feel on turn-in. Sonata’s turning diameter of 35.8 feet is better than Camry, Accord, Altima, Fusion and Malibu.

2011 Sonata2010 Camry2010 Accord2010 Altima2010 Fusion2010 MalibuTurning diameter (feet)

35.8

36.1

37.7

36.1

37.5

40.4

WORLD CLASS POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO

One of the program targets for the 2011 Sonata engineering team was world-class power-to-weight ratio. Power-to-weight ratio pays dividends in both performance and fuel economy.

Vehicle2011 Sonata2010 Camry2010 Accord2010 Altima2010 Fusion2010 MalibuCurb weight (lbs.)319933073269318033423415Horsepower198169177175175169Power-to-weight ratio16.219.618.518.219.120.2Sonata is rich in ultra-high-strength steel, leading to world-class body rigidity. The 2011 Sonata is 25 percent stiffer in torsion and 19 percent stiffer in bending rigidity than its predecessor, yet it is lighter than many midsize sedans, also offering more interior room.

This focus on power-to-weight ratio pays dividends across the board. The Sonata owes its ability to deliver both strong performance and excellent fuel economy in great part to its impressive power-to-weight efficiency.

ADVANCED STANDARD SAFETY TECHNOLOGIES: PART OF HYUNDAI’S ASSURANCE COMMITMENT

Sonata is built from the ground up with safety in mind, with a hot stamped ultra-high-strength steel body structure, advanced airbag technology and Electronic Stability Control (ESC), delivering on Hyundai’s commitment to both active and passive safety technology leadership. The prior generation Sonata was the first midsize sedan with standard ESC when it launched in March of 2005. ESC was not standard equipment on Honda Accord until the 2008 model year and the 2010 model year for Toyota Camry. Once again every 2011 Sonata has lifesaving ESC as standard equipment. This is important because the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has reported that ESC results in 35 percent fewer single-vehicle crashes and 30 percent fewer single-vehicle fatalities in passenger cars.

The Sonata also features a state-of-the-art braking package. The package includes four-wheel disc brakes and an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) including Brake Assist, which provides maximum braking force when a panic stop is detected, and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) to automatically adjust the braking force to front and rear axles based on the vehicle loading conditions.

Sonata features six airbags-including dual front, front seat-mounted side-impact, and front and rear side curtain airbags-along with active front-seat head restraints. The 2011 Hyundai Sonata is projected to earn the NHTSA’s top rating of five-stars for front and side impacts. Other passive safety features include shingle-style rear-seat head restraints for improved visibility, three-point seatbelts for all seating positions, front-seat seatbelt pretensioners and force limiters, and a rear-seat Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH) system for child seats.

2011 SONATA OFFERS FOUR UNIQUE AUDIO ENVIRONMENTS

An AM/FM/XM/CD/MP3 audio system with six speakers comes standard in the Sonata GLS and SE.

AM/FM/XM/ DVD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation and Dimension^® premium sound with subwoofer and external amplifier is optional on the GLS and SE models.

The Limited model comes standard with an AM/FM/XM/6-disc CD-changer/MP3 with HD Radio Technology and Dimension premium sound.

The optional AM/FM/XM/DVD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier system on the Limited comes with Infinity audio.

DIMENSION AUDIO SYSTEMS

Dimension is a new branded audio system created by Hyundai Mobis and features a Variable Equalizer with normal, dynamic and concert settings. The last generation equalizer provided only one fixed sound field. The new Variable Equalizer, tuned by renowned audiophile Ken Pholmann, is a function for controlling the sound qualities sensed by listeners. For example, Pohlmann added bass response to the concert mode typically not found in other systems.

INFINITY^® AUDIO SYSTEM

Audio enthusiasts with even more demanding tastes will be impressed by the AM/FM/XM/DVD/MP3 audio system with touch-screen navigation that includes a 400-watt external amplifier, dedicated Dual Voice Coil (DVC) subwoofer, eight-channels and nine Infinity speakers available on the Limited. Infinity and Hyundai engineers worked together during the early stages of development to integrate the speakers into Sonata’s interior. The team spent hundreds of hours fine-tuning the system for the cabin’s unique acoustic attributes.

XM, HD RADIO TECHNOLOGY, BLUETOOTH AND TOUCH-SCREEN NAVIGATION DELIVER UNRIVALED MIDSIZE SEDAN TECHNOLOGY CHOICES

2011 Sonata comes standard with three months of XM Satellite Radio, real-time XM NavTraffic and XM Data Services

Sonata also will be the first popular midsize sedan to offer the clarity of digital HD Radio Technology from the factory

First vehicle in its class to offer a Bluetooth hands-free phone system standard

Standard auxiliary iPod/USB inputs allow drivers to fully control and charge iPods directly from the head unit

Touch-screen navigation is available on all trim levels and includes a high-resolution screen. This system provides new features including Bluetooth streaming audio capability. This easy-to-use unit can be controlled via 6.5-inch WVGA touchscreen or voice-activation by headliner-mounted microphone.

The system features 8GB of flash memory and comes matched with a sound system that plays compact discs, accesses digital music files via Bluetooth streaming audio or allows driver and passenger to access their personal listening devices through the iPod/USB/auxiliary inputs. Bluetooth audio wirelessly streams music from select mobile phones to the head unit. Also, with a Bluetooth-enabled phone one can look up a local restaurant and call for reservations before plotting the route. The XM Satellite Radio interface is also integrated into the navigation unit and features channel logos, real-time NavTraffic and XM Data services such as WX Satellite Weather^®, XM Stock Ticker and XM Sports Ticker. The system is also updateable via the USB.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through more than 790 dealerships nationwide.

	2011 Sonata
ENGINE
Type	DOHC CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) 4-cylinder
Materials	Aluminum block and heads
Bore & Stroke	88.0 mm x 97.0 mm
Displacement	2.4 liters / 2,359 cc
Horsepower	GLS/Limited: 198 @ 6,300 rpm – ULEV GLS/Limited: 190 @ 6,300 rpm – PZEV (est.) SE: 200 @ 6,300 rpm – ULEV (est.)
Torque	GLS/Limited: 184 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm – ULEV GLS/Limited: TBD lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm – PZEV SE: 186 lb-ft @ 4,250 rpm – ULEV (est.)
Valves per cylinder	4
TRANSMISSION
6-speed manual
Gear ratios
First	3.27:1
Second	1.93:1
Third	1.70:1
Fourth	1.28:1
Fifth	1.03:1
Sixth	0.83:1
Reverse	3.59:1
Final drive	4.33:1 (1,2,R) / 3.25:1 (3-6)

6-speed electronic automatic with OD lock-up torque converter, shift lock and SHIFTRONIC™ manual shift mode
Gear ratios
First	4.21:1
Second	2.64:1
Third	1.80:1
Fourth	1.39:1
Fifth	1.00:1
Sixth	0.77:1
Reverse	3.39:1
Final drive	2.89:1
SUSPENSION
Front	MacPherson strut with gas-charged hydraulic twin tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar (24-mm for GLS/Limited/SE)
Rear	Independent multi-link design with coil springs, gas-charged hydraulic twin tube shock absorbers and stabilizer bar (15-mm for GLS/Limited)
	Independent multi-link design with stiffer coil springs, gas-charged hydraulic monotube shock absorbers and larger stabilizer bar (17-mm for SE)
STEERING
Type	Motor-Driven Power Steering (MDPS) column mounted, Rack-and-Pinion, Engine-RPM-Sensing
Overall Ratio	14.5:1
Turns, lock to lock	2.34
Turning circle, curb to curb	35.8 ft.

BRAKES/TIRES/WHEELS
Front	Power-assisted 11.8-in.ventilated disc
Rear	Power-assisted 11.2-in.disc
ABS	4-wheel, 4-channel and 4-sensor with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD)
Tires	P205/65R16 (GLS) P225/45R18 (SE) P215/55R17 (Limited) T125/80D16 (Compact temporary use spare tire)
Wheels	16 x 6.5-in. steel wheel with full covers (GLS) 16 x 6.5-in. alloy wheel (GLS Optional) 18 x 7.5-in. hyper silver alloy (SE) 17 x 6.5-in. alloy (Limited)
EXTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase	110.0 in.
Overall length	189.8 in.
Overall width	72.2 in.
Overall height	57.9 in.
Tread width (front/back)
16-in. wheels	62.9 in. / 62.9 in.
17-in. wheels	62.6 in. / 62.6 in.
18-in. wheels	62.5 in. / 62.5 in.
Coefficient of drag (Cd)	0.28

INTERIOR DIMENSIONS
Head room
Front	40.0 in.
Rear	37.8 in.
Leg room
Front	45.5 in.
Rear	34.6 in.
Shoulder room
Front	57.9 in.
Rear	56.7 in.
Hip room
Front	55.2 in.
Rear	54.9 in.
EPA passenger volume	103.8 cu. ft.
EPA cargo volume	16.4 cu. ft.
EPA total volume	120.2 cu. ft.
CAPACITIES
Fuel	18.5 gallons
Oil	4.86 quarts
Coolant	2.7 quarts
CURB WEIGHT
4-cyl. manual	3,161 lbs
4-cyl. automatic	3,199 – 3,316 lbs
FUEL ECONOMY	City	Highway	Combined
4-cyl. manual	23 mpg (est.)	34 mpg (est.)	TBD
4-cyl. automatic	23 mpg (est.)	35 mpg (est.)	TBD

TOWING CAPACITY
Maximum towing capacity, with trailer brakes	TBD
Maximum towing capacity, without trailer brakes	TBD
Maximum trailer tongue weight, with trailer brakes	TBD

Maximum trailer tongue weight, without trailer brakes