2009 Toyota Corolla

INTRODUCTION

Nearly 40 years after the Corolla was introduced to American drivers, the 2009 Corolla will continue to offer the quality and value for which the brand has long been known," said Tim Morrison, Toyota Division corporate marketing manager. "In style and substance, the tenth-generation Corolla will have a strong, new identity, all its own. It will be far more than merely the next-generation Corolla and will position itself perfectly above our entry-level Yaris and below our sales leader, the Camry."
Originally launched in Japan in 1966, Corolla first arrived in America in 1968 to instant success. For nearly four decades, Corolla has been synonymous with Toyota quality, style and value, earning a distinction as one of the most trusted cars in America. Over that span more than 30 million Corollas have been sold worldwide, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time.

The new Corolla remains true to the brand’s role as a subcompact sedan, with dimensions similar to the model it replaces. But it offers an all-new body with a lean, stylish shape, and it delivers increased interior and luggage room, more power, more economical engines and an all-new chassis and suspension.

The all-new Corolla will come in five grades – Standard, LE, XLE, the sporty S, and the performance-driven XRS.
The Corolla’s wide, low profile was developed by Toyota Design in collaboration with styling studios in Turin, Italy. Its foundation was set by the search for a lower, sportier shape than that of the previous Corolla. That search drove the decision to move the bottom of the A-pillar forward and the bottom of the C-pillar aft to increase the angle of the window glass and to improve the Corolla’s aerodynamic performance.

The standard body kit on S and XRS models helps to modify aerodynamics and enhance the Corolla’s sporty look – these include a front underbody spoiler, fog lamps, rocker moldings, upper and lower rear spoilers, and for improved air management under the car, engine undercovers.

The 2009 Corolla’s interior is sporty and distinctive – with roomy-feeling comfort. While Corolla maintains the same headroom, legroom and shoulder room as the previous model, it feels larger, thanks to a design that enhances comfort and improves utility, usability and storage.

ENGINE AND PERFORMANCE
The Standard, LE and XLE models will be equipped with an all-new 1.8-liter engine. The 16-valve, DOHC four-cylinder engine with Dual VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing with intelligence), produces 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Corolla models equipped with the 1.8-liter engine will achieve preliminary EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 27/35 mpg.
A five-speed manual transmission is standard with the 1.8-liter engine, and a four-speed automatic Electronically Controlled Transmission (ECT) will also be available.

For those who crave just a bit more horsepower and torque, there is the 2.4-liter engine. This engine is completely redesigned for use in the new Corolla XRS grade. The 16-valve DOHC engine with VVT-i produces 158 hp at 6,000 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. Preliminary EPA city/highway fuel economy for the 2.4-liter engine is 22/30 mpg.

The 2.4-liter engine will be paired with standard five-speed manual and optional five-speed automatic transmissions.

2010 TOYOTA CAMRY

INTRODUCTION
The Camry and Camry Hybrid models are entering the 2010 model year with revised exterior styling, a new four-cylinder powertrain and new safety, audio and convenience features. For 2010 Toyota will offer: Camry standard, LE, SE and XLE versions with prices ranging between $19,395 for a standard Camry with new six-speed manual transmission to $29,045 for the XLE with a six-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid version is priced at $26,150.


The standard version are powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that deliver 169 hp, or 179 hp in the SE versions. The top of the line models get a powerful 3.5-liter V6 engine that delivers 268 hp and is mated to a six -speed automatic transmission.

On the exterior, Camry gets a newly designed grille and front bumper, an enlarged lower intake, larger projector headlamps and restyled tail lamps. The Camry and LE grades feature restyled standard wheel covers. The XLE grade will run on new 16-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels, while the SE grade adds new 17-inch sporty alloy wheels.


Inside, Camry is available with an optional audio system equipped with a new USB port for auxiliary music sources, Bluetooth(R), integrated satellite radio, single-CD, and MP3 and Bluetooth(R) streaming music capability. Previously an option, all Camry gas models will now be equipped with Vehicle Stability Control with traction control. Auto up/down power windows with jam protection on all four doors is standard equipment.

PERFORMANCE
In tune with the needs of midsize car buyers, Camry provides excellent fuel economy. With its new 2.5-liter engine, the Camry returns an EPA estimated 22 mpg city / 33 mpg highway and 22/32 with both manual and automatic transmissions. (The 2009 models with both the five-speed manual and five-speed automatic returned 21/31 mpg.) Camry V6 models have 19/28 MPG EPA-estimated ratings. The Camry Hybrid, which combines a four-cylinder gasoline engine with an electric drive motor, returns an EPA-estimated 33 MPG city/34 MPG highway.



The Camry’s 2.55-liter four-cylinder engine, standard on Camry grade, LE, SE and XLE, produces 169 SAE horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 167 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,100 rpm (179 hp / 171 lb.-ft. for SE grade) and can be mated to a new six-speed manual transmission or a new electronically controlled six-speed automatic.

The DOHC 3.5-liter V6, available in the LE, SE and XLE grades, delivers a substantial performance boost with 268 horsepower at 6,200 rpm and 248 lb.-ft. peak torque at 4,700 rpm. The chain-driven camshafts employ Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (Dual VVT-i) which controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts for optimal performance and efficiency at all engine speeds. The V6 Camry models come equipped exclusively with a six-speed automatic transmission that offers a sequential mode for manual shifting when desired. Intelligent control adapts shifting strategy in response to driver input, with very fast kick-down and noticeable response.

The Camry Hybrid model owes its outstanding efficiency to Hybrid Synergy Drive, which produces a combined 187 horsepower and varies power between the gas engine and electric motor, or combines both, as needed. The first part of Hybrid Synergy Drive consists of a 147-hp, 2.4-liter four-cylinder Atkinson-cycle engine coupled with an electronically controlled planetary-gear continuously variable transmission.
The second part combines a small, high-torque 40-hp electric motor, an ultra-small inverter with a specially designed compact battery, and a transaxle to seamlessly combine power from the electric motor and gasoline engine. Because there are situations in which the gas engine in a Toyota hybrid completely shuts off, air conditioning and power steering systems are driven electrically.

In addition, an “ECO” button limits energy consumption by the climate control system, and under certain conditions can help improve fuel economy. Special attention paid to vehicle underbody aerodynamics, including the use of wheel spats and underbelly pans, helps yield a coefficient of drag of just 0.27, which can benefit fuel economy. The 2010 Camry Hybrid is certified as an Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV), just one of a handful of cars that meets this strict standard. It produces over 70 percent less smog-forming emissions than the average new car.

HANDLING AND RIDE
The 2010 Camry offers responsive handling while providing the smooth, quiet ride that sets a benchmark for the segment. Four-wheel independent suspension is via MacPherson struts in front and a dual-link strut rear configuration. Camry, LE, XLE and Hybrid models ride on standard 16-inch wheels of either steel (Camry and LE) or aluminum (XLE and Hybrid), with the sporty SE model featuring standard aluminum 17-inch wheels.

All Camry models are equipped with four-wheel disc brakes. Toyota designed the Camry SE model to spice up the daily commute. Chassis modifications specific to the SE include springs, shock absorbers and bushings with firmer, sportier values than those used in other grades. The Camry SE also has a lower ride height than other Camry models.



increase the SE’s torsional rigidity. Tuning the SE chassis resulted in optimized underbody aerodynamics. Making the underbody as flat as possible helps to smooth and speed the airflow under the car, and engineers also specially tuned the balance between front and rear downforce.

2006 Honda Accord

INTRODUCTION
The seventh-generation of the Honda Accord remains one of the most popular cars in America. For 2006, the Accord receives fresh front and rear styling as well as a long list of enhancements and additional standard equipment. Accord Coupe and Sedan models provide more power, more comfort and convenience features, and a comprehensive list of standard safety features that help make the 2006 model the most exciting and well-equipped Accord in its 30-year history.
The entire Accord line-up gets an extensive face lift for 2006 as well as a host of new features and enhancements, along with the addition of a new Accord V6 Sedan with a 6-speed manual transmission designed to appeal to driving enthusiasts. Adding to the available trim levels, the 4-cylinder Accord Sedan models offer a new value oriented Value Package (VP) trim level positioned above the previously available DX and a very well equipped and attractively priced Special Edition (SE) model positioned between the LX and EX models.
Powertrain improvements abound across the Accord line-up. The V6 engine’s horsepower is increased to 244HP (+4 hp, SAE net revised 8/04*) and the 4-cylinder engine’s horsepower is increased to 166HP (+6HP, SAE net revised 8/04*). Horsepower gains were achieved with extensive improvements to the airflow of the intake and exhaust systems. The 4-cylinder engines are now controlled with Drive-By-Wire (DBW), rather than a throttle cable, providing for smooth operation and enhanced throttle response. (Accord V6 engines already utilized DBW prior to the 2006 model year).

Fuel efficiency remains an Accord hallmark. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder models equipped with the 5-speed manual transmission are EPA rated at 26 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, while 4-cylinder models equipped with the 5-speed automatic achieve an EPA fuel economy rating of 24 mpg city and 34 mpg highway. The 3.0-liter V6 models with the 6-speed manual transmission are EPA rated at 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway while V6 models with the 5-speed automatic transmission are EPA rated at 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The Accord Hybrid remains the most fuel-efficient Accord achieving an EPA rating of (TBA) mpg in the city and (TBA) mpg highway. Additionally, the Accord Hybrid is now cleaner than ever, achieving California Air Resource Board AT-PZEV certification for 2006.

DRIVING IMPRESSIONS
The 2.4-liter twin-cam four-cylinder engine is smooth and powerful, with a high-quality, mature feel. It’s strongest at higher rpm, but never gets buzzy. With new drive-by-wire throttle control and revised valve timing, the 2006 version delivers 166 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 160 pound-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. That’s 6 more horsepower than 2005 models had, and about the same torque delivered 500 rpm sooner; those new power figures would be more impressive if they weren’t adjusted to meet new test procedures instituted by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE).

Honda says the actual improvement is closer to 10 horsepower. Additionally, Accord’s four-cylinder engine is equipped with Honda’s i-VTEC valvetrain, which means the valve timing is continually adjusted according to conditions for strong torque over the entire rpm range. So it’s responsive at all engine speeds. Yet it delivers excellent fuel mileage: 24/34 mpg City/Highway with the automatic. It gets even better mileage around town when equipped with the manual, earning an EPA-estimated 26/34 mpg.
The five-speed automatic transmission is incredibly smooth. The drive-by-wire throttle is programmed to cut the gas during upshifts, and its timing is perfect. It’s not often that the performance of an automatic transmission is so tight that it stands out.

The gear ratios are perfect and the shifting is buttery smooth. With the manual transmission, acceleration is strong. The 3.0-liter V6 is light and powerful, now rated 244 horsepower and 211 pound-feet of torque. Equipped with VTEC, its broad torque range begins at relatively low rpm. The V6 gets excellent fuel economy: 21/30 mpg with the automatic transmission.

2008 Honda Accord

INTRODUCTION

The Honda Accord was first Japanese-nameplate car assembled in the United States and calendar year 2007 represents the 25th anniversary of its manufacture here.

The all-new 2008 Honda Accord moves the world of mainstream transportation in a refined, dynamic and sophisticated direction with an expanded range of innovative technologies designed for more power, greater efficiency and enhanced safety across the entire lineup of sedans and coupes.

Completely redesigned for 2008 with increased dimensions for a more spacious interior, the sedan styling theme expresses a powerful presence with sharp and strong character lines. The coupe is further individualized with an aggressive stance and unique proportions that create a muscular, sporty demeanor.


An available 3.5-liter i-VTEC V-6 engine produces 268-horsepower - the most ever for any Accord - while introducing a new generation of fuel-saving Variable Cylinder Management™ (VCM®) technology and achieving a Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (PZEV*) rating. The VCM system operates in six-cylinder mode for power and 4- and 3-cylinder modes for efficiency, resulting in an EPA city/highway fuel economy rating of 19/29* miles per gallon (Accord Sedan V-6).

Also new for Accord, an Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure enhances frontal collision compatibility with vehicles of different sizes and bumper heights. Additional safety equipment standard to all Accord models includes Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSA®), also known as Electronic Stability Control; side-curtain airbags; dual-chamber front side airbags with passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS), active front seat head restraints, anti-lock brakes and more.The Accord is available in sedan and coupe body styles with 2.4-liter 4-cylinder and 3.5-liter V-6 engine choices. Available transmissions include a 5-speed manual (standard with all 4-cylinder engines), a 5-speed automatic (standard on sedan V-6 models, available with all 4-cylinder engines and V-6-powered Accord Coupes,) and a 6-speed manual transmission (exclusive to the Accord Coupe EX-L V-6 6MT).

Sedan trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Sedan LX and plus-featured LX-P (177-horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Sedan EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine), to the premium and upscale Accord Sedan EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine). Coupe trim levels range from the well-equipped Accord Coupe LX-S (190 horsepower 4-cylinder engine), to the nicely-equipped Accord Coupe EX (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine) to the premium and upscale Accord Coupe EX-L (190-horsepower 4-cylinder engine or 268-horsepower V-6 engine).

POWERTRAIN
All 2008 Accord engines deliver increased horsepower across the board, along with high fuel efficiency and low emissions. In total, these power plants represent the most powerful and advanced technologies of any Accord in history, and are also projected to deliver excellent real-world fuel economy performance. All engines only require regular unleaded fuel. Powertrain highlights include:

2.4-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine (Sedan LX, LX-P)

177 horsepower at 6500 rpm, 161 lb-ft. of torque at 4300 rpm
5-speed automatic transmission or 5-speed manual transmission
Estimated EPA fuel economy of 21/31 mpg City/Highway (Sedan, Automatic)
PZEV or ULEV-2 emissions
Accord Sedan EX, EX-L; Coupe LX-S, EX, EX-L includes:

High-flow exhaust system with variable-valve silencer
190 horsepower at 7000 rpm, 162 lb-ft. of torque at 4400 rpm
3.5-liter, SOHC, i-VTEC V-6 engine (Sedan EX V-6, EX-L V-6; Coupe EX-L V-6: 5AT)

268 horsepower at 6200 rpm, 248 lb-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm
5-speed automatic transmission
V CM for improved fuel efficiency
Estimated EPA mileage of 19/29 mpg City/Highway (Sedan)
PZEV or ULEV-2 emissions
3.5-liter, SOHC, VTEC V-6 engine (Coupe EX-L V-6: 6MT)

268 horsepower at 6200 rpm, 248 lb-ft. of torque at 5000 rpm
6-speed manual transmission
VTEC provides two intake cam profiles for increased low- and mid-range torque
Estimated EPA mileage of 17/25 mpg City/Highway
ULEV-2 emissions

SAFETYThrough a comprehensive and evolving approach to vehicle safety, Honda seeks to provide a high level of occupant and pedestrian protection in all of its cars and trucks, regardless of size or price, as well as increased compatibility with other vehicles as part of the Safety for Everyone initiative introduced in 2003. Consistent with the Safety for Everyone initiative, every 2008 Accord integrates sophisticated safety technology that includes the ACE body structure; side curtain airbags; driver’s and front passenger’s dual-chamber side airbags with a passenger-side Occupant Position Detection System (OPDS); and dual-stage, dual-threshold driver’s and front passenger’s airbags (SRS).Additionally, the Accord has active front seat head restraints that are designed to help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event of a rear collision. Standard active safety features include VSA, a four-wheel disc anti-lock brake system (ABS) with brake assist and electronic brake distribution (EBD), front seatbelts with an automatic tensioning system and load limiters, and a pedestrian safety design in the front of the vehicle. Passenger-side seatbelt reminders and daytime running lights are also standard equipment.

2006 Toyota Highlander

The Toyota Highlander continues to be the best-selling car-based midsize SUV since its launch in large part because it provides such a high degree of safety and ride comfort. Highlander is one of six sport-utility vehicles offered by Toyota (including the new Highlander Hybrid), and all are equipped with the STAR SAFETY SYSTEMâ„¢ that helps provide vehicle control from an array of advanced dynamic handling technology.The Highlander is available in two-row and three-row models with a choice between two engines, each available with either front-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive.

The STAR SAFETY SYSTEM™ includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and traction control (TRAC), an anti-lock brake system (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. Four-channel, four-sensor ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking during severe braking conditions, while EBD distributes proper brake force between the front and rear wheels according to driving conditions.Brake Assist is designed to determine if the driver is attempting emergency braking and, if the driver has not stepped firmly enough on the brake pedal to engage the ABS, the system supplements the applied braking power until pedal pressure is released.

Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) helps maintain direction during cornering by manipulating engine torque and individual wheel-braking influence when it detects tire slippage. The system’s TRAC feature helps reduce tire slippage during acceleration.

"There’s no question that Highlander is a leader, and its popularity is testament to the importance that family vehicle buyers especially put on safety," said Jim Lentz, Toyota Division senior vice president and general manager.

Highlander is available with a four-wheel drive system that distributes engine power 50/50 front-to-rear, with TRAC controlling potential slippage at any wheel. This type of 4WD system helps to handle wet and slippery road conditions with confidence. The tire pressure monitor system alerts the driver with an indicator light if there is a significant loss of tire pressure, reducing the possibility of loss of handling and stability or excessive tire wear.

ENGINE
The Highlander’s standard 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces 155 horsepower, and the available 3.3-liter V6 produces 215 horsepower and 222 lb.-ft. of torque. The two-wheel drive, four-cylinder Highlander provides EPA estimated city and highway fuel mileage ratings comparable to some smaller SUVs — 22/27 mpg.Teamed to a five-speed automatic transmission with "snow" mode throttle-control start, the V6 yields powerful acceleration and passing performance. The Highlander V6 also delivers admirable fuel efficiency, with EPA city/highway fuel economy estimated ratings of 19/25 mpg with two-wheel drive and 18/24 mpg with four-wheel drive. An electronic throttle control provides highly precise engine response, and the Active Control Engine Mount helps to reduce vibrations when idling.

SAFETYAlong with its STAR SAFETY SYSTEM? of dynamic handling technology, Highlander provides an impressive array of passive safety, including three-point seatbelts and headrests for all seating positions. The front seats are designed to help reduce the possibility of whiplash-type injuries, and the front seatbelts include pretensioners and force limiters. The second-row seat incorporates height-adjustable headrests, and models equipped with the third-row seat include these, as well.The driver and passenger advanced front airbags inflate according to collision severity. A front seat passenger sensor is designed to determine if there is a person in the seat as well as the person’s weight category to determine whether the airbag should inflate, and the correct inflation power. The optional front-seat-mounted side airbags include first and second row side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor.

The second-row seat is equipped with a Child Restraint LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) that provides top tether anchors for all three seating positions and lower anchors for outboard seating positions.

2008 Toyota Highlander

The 2008 Toyota Highlander is a seven passenger "affordable" midsized SUV. It was first introduced in 2002, and quickly became Toyota’s best selling SUV, until the Rav4 outsold it in 2006. After seven years, the highlander was in need of makeover. The highlander just looks dated, particularly in the cabin, which was smaller than most current SUV models. In 2008, Toyota decided it was time for a change and introduced a completely redesigned Highlander. The new highlander is built on the same platform as the current Toyota Camry, and is now longer, wider and taller than its previous generation.

This new SUV is offered in several trim levels: base, Sport and Limited, each with front or all-wheel drive. The Hybrid models are base and limited, and both are offered only with all-wheel drive. So, you have plenty of trim options to choose from.

ENGINE

The new highlander is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 gasoline, or a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid producing 270 and 209 horsepower, respectively. The gasoline powered models are matted to a 5-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission. The hybrid models have something a bit different; they are matted to an electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (CVT).

INTERIOR
Inside, the new Highlander is completely new. It now has a two-tone dash that flows evenly through the center console, giving the interior a more modern and sophisticated look. In fact, the new Highlander has one of nicest dashboards we have seen this year. All the interior components are well integrated, making it a comfortable drive.


Atop of the center console is a large on-board computer display. Our test vehicle was equipped with an optional $2,500 LCD navigation screen. This screen is also used for the audio settings and is voice activated. With this option, Toyota has taken a technological step in the right direction. The user interface is very well done too. As expected with any Toyota system, you will be able to learn the controls in no time.

Right under the navigation LCD, the center stacks background changes. The black leaves its place to a ’faux’ wood trim. This is where you will find the climate control system, dominated by two large knobs respectively controlling driver and passenger temperature.

CONCLUSION
The newly redesign 2008 Toyota Highlander is a top contender for the best 7 passenger SUV. With the starting price of $27, 500, it is a sure competitor to the Honda Pilot, Saturn Outlook and Mazda CX9. Our limited version reached $34k, but offered all the luxury options you could ever imagine. This vehicle is a bargain when you compare it to its luxurious cousin, the Lexus RX350. The Lexus offers a bit more luxury and a smoother ride. However, the Highlander provides almost the same level of agreement than the best in Class Lexus RX 350 and for $10K less. And because it is a Toyota, it will last and keep a very good resale value. Regrettably, even though the appearance is now sportier, the drive remains a bit subdued. So, the power enthusiast might want to test drive the Mazda CX-9 before making a decision.

Overall, we feel buying the new 2008 Toyota Highlander is, without a doubt, the right thing to do.


Pros
Looks
Comfort
All wheel drive handling
Engine
Luxury
New interior
Technology features

Cons
?

2008 Honda Cr-v

The Honda CR-V, one of the best-selling sport utility vehicles for 2007, provides spacious five-passenger seating in a versatile crossover SUV package with sedan-like handling. Engineered to be a safety leader, the CR-V achieves the highest five-star crash safety rating by the federal government for both frontal and side impacts and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) rates the CR-V as a "Top Safety Pick - 2007." The CR-V is one of only two small SUVs to achieve both the highest federal crash safety rating for frontal and side impacts and the top IIHS safety rating.For 2008, the CR-V builds on its premium style and refinement by further enhancing the CR-V EX-L with upgraded and additional features. A new dual-zone automatic climate control system and a driver’s seat with eight-way power adjustment and power lumbar support have been added to the CR-V EX-L, replacing the manual controls. Additionally, all CR-V EX-L models are equipped with the premium audio system that was previously exclusive to models equipped with the Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™.

ENGINE AND HANDLING

A highly rigid body and fully independent suspension result in a quiet cabin and smooth, agile handling performance. The 2.4-liter i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine and standard 5-speed automatic transmission provide an excellent balance of power (166-horsepower) and fuel economy (EPA-rated 20/27 city/highway mpg , 2WD).

A dynamic forward cabin blends the familiar CR-V identity into a sculpted lower body with a rugged appearance. A two-tier grille and a side profile with an arched window shape and chrome trim accent the CR-V’s distinctive and upscale presence.

The CR-V’s unit-body construction features extensive use of high-strength steel to provide rigidity. Comprised of a front MacPherson strut layout and a rear multi-link suspension, the high-rigidity body and independent suspension offer an engaging driving experience rare for this class of vehicle. State-of-the art noise absorption materials help to reduce engine and road noise for an ultra-quiet cabin.Powered by a 2.4-liter, DOHC, i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine that produces 166 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 161 lb-ft. of torque at 4200 rpm, the CR-V offers refined and responsive performance with good fuel economy2 and low emissions (ULEV-2). The Drive-by-Wire (DBW) throttle control works closely with the transmission for extremely smooth shift points and intuitive gear holding on hilly roads. A 5-speed automatic transmission is standard equipment.

The available, fully-automatic Real Time 4WD system enhances the CR-V’s all-weather capabilities when driving in rain, snow and dirt roads - without the significant weight, fuel economy and handling performance drawbacks of a conventional four-wheel-drive system.

INTERIOR

CR-V models outfitted with a leather interior (EX-L) provide a spacious multi-function center console in place of the retractable center tray that can accommodate up to 24 compact disc cases (on models without the navigation system). On the CR-V EX and EX-L, a dual-deck cargo shelf provides additional storage options in the cargo area and can hold up to 20 pounds, while providing enough clearance underneath for grocery bags or items such as a folded stroller.

The Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System with voice recognition and rearview camera, available on the CR-V EX-L, features a 6.5-inch motorized display that opens and closes for access to an internal single-disc CD player and a digital audio card reader that can play MP3 and WMA files from CompactFlash® cards. The navigation system features more than 7 million points of interest and can control the audio system. The voice recognition is capable of recognizing and entering numbers, street names and cities.

The CR-V LX and EX audio systems provide 160 watts of power. Auxiliary audio input jacks are standard equipment on all trim levels, allowing for portable music device playback through the audio system. All audio systems feature MP3/WMA CD playback capability and Speed-sensitive Volume Control (SVC) that automatically adjusts the volume based on vehicle speed. The CR-V LX has a four-speaker audio system with a single-disc CD player. The CR-V EX adds two speakers (tweeters) and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer. The CR-V EX-L equipped audio system increases power output to 270 watts and delivers sound through seven speakers, including a subwoofer. XM® Satellite Radio is standard on the CR-V EX-L.

2011 Mercedes Benz C class

INTRODUCTION
Unveiled in 1993, the C-Class quickly became one of the best sold models in Mercedes ’ line-up. This impressive success is contributed to the car’s relatively cheap price - when compared to other Mercedes models - but also to its compact size.

The first generation stayed in production until 2000, and from 2000 to 2007 Mercedes sold the second generation C-Class. As of 2007, the model is in its third generation (W204), and that generation came with a completely new exterior design language, more compact dimensions that offer a generously sized interior, and an improved engine line-up. In 2011, the C-Class received a facelift that brought on a new front and rear design, more power from a new V6 engine, and improved fuel consumption. For the 2013 model year, the C-Class will continue its path of improvement with some small changes under the hood to make the C-Class even more powerful.

INTERIOR
The interior was completely redesigned for the third generation C-Class. Mercedes opted to combine sporty elements with the highest level of luxury: silver-colored bezels, black dial faces, white markings and glowing orange combined with a two-tone dashboard and a new center console.

Mercedes also installed newly developed front seats which further benefited in terms of pressure distribution and lateral support. The seating position is higher by 7 millimeters thanks to the straight front edges of the B-pillars, the larger front door aperture, and the new shape of the seat cushions in the rear.

The new C-Class also received higher quality materials, while the boot capacity was increased by 20 liters to 475 liters.

EXTERIOR

The third generation C-Class measures in at 4,581 millimeters in length (55 mm longer than predecessor) and 1770 millimeters in width (42 mm more than the predecessor). The wheelbase was increased by 44 mm to a total of 2760 millimeters. Thanks to the increased dimensions, the new C-Class offers a generously sized interior, thereby adding more comfort.

One of the most impressive features of the new C-Class is its new radiator grille which is flush-fitted into the bonnet and bumper, almost completely filling the space between the headlamps. This element is a distinctive feature of the new C-Class and helps customers distinguish the three versions: Classic, Elegance and Avantgarde.

The headlamps are also new, while on the side, the car gets large wheel arches and prominent wings. The rear continues with a striking spoiler lip on the boot lid, which flows harmoniously into the wings and the character line, the boot handle, and the attractively integrated bumper lining.

ENGINE

The third generation C-Class will be offered with a choice of four and six-cylinder engines with fuel economy increased by 13%. The four-cylinder line-up starts with an entry-level C 180 KOMPRESSOR that develops a total of 156 HP (up from the previous 143 HP) and a C 200 KOMPRESSOR with 184 HP. The V6 models include a choice of three petrol units developing 204 HP, 231 HP, and 272 HP. For customers with a special addiction to diesel engines, Mercedes is offering a 136 HP C 200 CDI and a 170 HP C 220 CDI. The top version gets a V6 diesel engine with 224 HP.The only "big" change the C-Class received in 2011 was for the Mercedes C350 Blue Efficiency who received a new V6 gasoline engine that delivers a total of 306 HP. The fuel consumption was also lowered by 31% compared to the previous model.
C250 Coupe & Sport/Luxury Sedan: direct-injection 1.8-liter 4-cylinder turbo (201 hp, 229 lb.-ft.)
C300 4MATIC Sport/Luxury Sedan: new direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 generating 248 hp and 251 lb-ft of torque (previously 228 hp/221 lb-ft) including new ECO Start/Stop and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
C350 Coupe & Sport Sedan: New ECO Start/Stop on direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.). Available 4MATIC all-wheel drive on coupe.
C63 AMG Coupe & Sedan: features hand-built naturally-aspirated 6.3-liter V8 (451 hp, 443 lb-ft), AMG 7-speed MCT and 18-inch twin 5-spoke alloy wheels. Optional AMG Development Package yields 481 hp.

PRICES
Prices for the 2013 model year haven’t been announced just yet, but on the US market the 2012 model ranges from $34,800 for the C250 version and go up to $40,575 for the C350 model.