Driven: 2012 VW Beetle Turbo

It's finally here. The long awaited replacement for the Volkswagen New Beetle is finally hitting dealer lots. And we had the chance to drive one. Our test car was a candy white Launch Edition Turbo. Having driven and owned many of the outgoing New Beetles since 1998, the new 2012 edition is a welcome addition to the VW family. Many of the New Beetle's downfalls have been addressed including size, handling and power.

First thing you notice is the size difference. At first glance, it doesn't appear to be much larger, but the more you look at it, the more apparent it becomes that this isn't the small Beetle of old. You are also drawn to the elongated hood that more closely resembles the original Beetle. One styling cue I am still trying to adjust to, is the squared off front bumper that is part of VW's new design DNA. It just doesn't scream Beetle when you look at it. But who am I to argue? Moving to the side we find one of the best styling cues adapted to the Beetle yet, pillarless doors. They really suit the Beetle's design. The roof, much lower and elongated also carreis a few styling cues from the Beetle of the 1970s. An interesting styling touch is the partial roof panel attached tot the rear hatch. This adds the extra rear seat headroom. Out side, it also carries the roof mounted antenna, carried over from the previous New Beetle. The tail end of the car we find some great styling features. A true dual exhaust system with polished tips. Large, while not round tail lamps do have a few design cues from the past as well. Another nice touch is the addition of the VW emblem/trunk release seen on some other VWs, but never adapted to the previous car. This is a much welcome addition.

Our test car was also equipped with the optional 19 inch wheels wrapped in Continental ContiPro Contacts and the Turbos featured red brake calipers. 4 wheel disc brakes with ABS on all 4 corners. Unlike the previous New Beetle, the 2012 features a new fully independent 4 link rear suspension and a MacPhearson Strut front suspension. A Sport suspension package will be available as an option. The turbo is equipped with a 2.0 liter 4 cylinder that has 200 horse power. Our test car came equipped with the optional 6 speed DSG automatic.

Moving to the interior, you are greeted by deep bolstered sport seats that come standard on the Turbo. The fit and finish of the interior is top notch compared to the VWs of old. I was surprised to find hard surfaces for th top of the dash, but the quality of the materials used are excellent. The new dash layout is excellent, a really nice feature is the body colored door, dash and steering wheel accents that really give the interior some splash. Storage is one thing there is no lack of in the Beetle. My particular favorite storage spot is the "KaferFach" glovebox. It captures the style of the original Beetles dash perfectly. The driving position is suited perfectly as one would expect from a car as sporty as the Beetle. And the flat bottomed steering wheel is an interesting touch. The rear seating area is greatly improved also, additional head and leg room is a big plus, as is the new 50/50 split rear seat vs. the New Beetles solid rear seat back. The trunk area is almost doubled in size. The lower edge of the trunk opening is almost flush with the trunk floor making loading and unloading easier. The rear cargo shelf attaches with string to the rear hatch to lift automatically just as in the Golf/GTIs. Under the trunk floor hides a full size 16 inch spare tire and a full tool kit. Of the entire interior, the only creature comfort missing that I would have liked to see was the addition of a center armrest. Outside of that there were very few.

The driving characteristics are very Volkswagen. Its fun to drive and packs plenty of power and handles like a go cart. We put it through its paces on some twisty roads and were very impressed with the cars characteristics. It stays planted on the road with only a tad of over steer. Performance was brisk in both full automatic and in manual shift modes. There is minor road noise with the windows up thanks to the larger wheels and low profile 235/40R19 Continentals. Cruising around, we managed 23 miles per gallon. While VW rates the 2.0T at 22 City, 30 Highway. In summary, I was very pleased with the new 2012 VW Beetle.

A special thank you goes out to Billco Volkswagen for letting us use of their car for this review.

Book Review: Car Guys vs. Bean Counters

Bob Lutz, love him or hate him is one of my heroes. I see a lot of similarities between him and myself. Not only with the business prowess and the want to succeed, but also the fact that were are true dyed in the wool car guys. Having read Lutz's previous business book, Guts. I anxiously awaited the arrival of Car Guys vs. Bean Counters: The battle for the soul of American Business. At around 230 pages, I couldn't put this book. Every time I would pick it it up, I would get lost in the world of the auto industry I so truly love. There's a brief history lesson about GM's rise to to be the largest auto maker on the planet and the height of their style setting trends of the Harley Earl and Bill Mitchell era at  GM Design to loosing their ways in the Roger Smith era. But it's not all doom and gloom. There are plenty facts about what GM was doing right. And there's some interesting tidbits about other auto makers like Chrysler, Ford, Toyota, and VW. And lastly why the GM bankruptcy was an unfortunate truth that had to happen. bob Lutz is no stranger to the auto industry. His career has spanned nearly 5 decades and he has worked for all of the Detroit Big Three. I won't give away too much, but if you are passionate about cars and you are looking  for a great book to read. I highly recommend picking up Car Guys vs. Bean Counters.

What's the Best Chevrolet of all time?

As part of Chevy's centennial this year, the fine folks over at GM created an online contest to pick the best car out of Chevrolet's 100 year line up. Cars like the 53 and 63 Corvettes, 57 Bel Air, 69 Camaro, 70 Chevelle SS, the 1912 Classic Six, 09 ZR1, and even the 2011 Volt and a handful of others were all up for voting over the last few weeks with the winners heading to next round. By the time it was all said and done, the Chevy fans, chose the 1969 Chevrolet Camaro is the Best Chevrolet of all time. The Camaro won with an astounding 25,000+ votes. 2nd place was the 1970 Chevelle SS with only 18,000 votes.

Source: Chevrolet, General Motors

The last Ford Crown Victoria heads on the last patrol

The Ford Crown Victoria can undoubtedly be classified as one of Ford Motor Company's best selling vehicle lines. Even it was fleet sales. Millions are in use throughout the world as police cars and taxi cabs. The Panther platform in which the Crown Vic was built on was first introduced 32 years ago and served all of Fords major divisions. The Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, Lincoln Town Car and the ill fated Mercury Marauder all shared the same chassis architecture.

What might be the most sad though about a true American workhorse fading in to glory is that the final Crown Victoria won't be preserved by Ford or by any collector that we're aware of in the U.S. Nope, the last Crown Vic is headed to Saudi Arabia. Hopefully who ever ends up with the final Crown Vic will realize just how special this car is to automotive history and won't run it til the wheels fall off.

Only time will tell what future lies for a rear wheel drive, V8 powered sedan for Ford holds. This is the first time since 1932 that there has not been one in Ford's line up. Many police departments and taxi companies have been hoarding Crown Victorias in an effort to keep their fleets going especially as many older models were killed off during the failed Cash for Clunkers program. And many aren't enthused with the new Taurus police interceptor.

Long live the Crown Victoria! Thanks for 32 great years!

Little known history of the Chevrolet Bowtie.

Some automotive brands are pretty clear about how their corporate logos have come about. Ford, Chrysler, Volkswagen, Porsche and Ferrari all come to mind. One that's not well known, but also shrouded with a bit of mystery is the bowtie logo of GM's Chevrolet division.

Several stories have emerged as to how the now famous logo originated. One from Billy Durant's daughter who says that it originated from her father's imagination one night at dinner. Another from Durant's widow saying that her husband found a similar logo while reading a newspaper while on vacation in 1912. Others say it is a stylized version of the Swiss flag cross as Louis Chevrolet was born in Sweeden.

The official origin from General Motors is that Billy Durant saw the logo as part of the pattern on some wallpaper in a Paris hotel that he would tear down and return to Detroit with in 1908. The earliest known use of the the bowtie logo dates to 1913. So who's to say which one is the true meaning behind the bowtie? Durant passed away in 1947, so the answer has certainly gone to the grave at this point. But there is no denying that it ended up being the right choice as now, 100 years later the Chevrolet brand is still in business making cars.

Press Release:

DETROIT, Sept. 2, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Globally recognized today, the Chevrolet bowtie logo was introduced by company co-founder William C. Durant in late 1913. But how it came to be synonymous with the brand is open to wide interpretation.

Durant's version of how the logo came into existence is well known. The long-accepted story, confirmed by Durant himself, was that it was inspired by the wallpaper design in a Parisian hotel.

According to The Chevrolet Story of 1961, an official company publication issued in celebration of Chevrolet's 50th anniversary:

"It originated in Durant's imagination when, as a world traveler in 1908, he saw the pattern marching off into infinity as a design on wallpaper in a French hotel. He tore off a piece of the wallpaper and kept it to show friends, with the thought that it would make a good nameplate for a car."

However, conflicting accounts have emerged, each of which is plausible enough to deepen the mystery and suggest it may never be solved. Two of the alternate origins come from within the Durant family itself.

In 1929, Durant's daughter, Margery, published a book entitled, My Father. In it, she told how Durant sometimes doodled nameplate designs on pieces of paper at the dinner table. "I think it was between the soup and the fried chicken one night that he sketched out the design that is used on the Chevrolet car to this day," she wrote.

More than half a century later, another Bowtie origin was recounted in a 1986 issue of Chevrolet Pro Management Magazine based on a 13-year-old interview with Durant's widow, Catherine. She recalled how she and her husband were on holiday in Hot Springs, Va., in 1912. While reading a newspaper in their hotel room, Durant spotted a design and exclaimed, "I think this would be a very good emblem for the Chevrolet." Unfortunately, at the time, Mrs. Durant didn't clarify what the motif was or how it was used.

That nugget of information inspired Ken Kaufmann, historian and editor of The Chevrolet Review, to search out its validity. In a Nov. 12, 1911 edition of The Constitution newspaper, published in Atlanta, an advertisement appeared from by the Southern Compressed Coal Company for "Coalettes," a refined fuel product for fires. The Coalettes logo, as published in the ad, had a slanted bowtie form, very similar to the shape that would soon become the Chevrolet icon. Did Durant and his wife see the same ad – or one similar – the following year a few states to the north? The date of the paper was just nine days after the incorporation of the Chevrolet Motor Co.

One other explanation attributes the design to a stylized version of the cross of the Swiss flag. Louis Chevrolet was born in Switzerland at La Chaux-de-Fonds, Canton of Neuchatel, to French parents, on Christmas Day 1878.

Whichever origin is true, within a few years, the bowtie would emerge as the definitive Chevrolet logo. An October 2, 1913 edition of The Washington Post seems, so far, to be the earliest known example of the symbol being used to advertise the brand. "Look for this nameplate" the ad proclaims above the emblem. Customers the world over have been doing so ever since.

Many variations in coloring and detail of the Chevrolet bowtie have come and gone over the decades since its introduction in late 1913, but the essential shape has never changed. In 2004, Chevrolet began to phase in the gold bowtie that today serves as the brand identity for all of its cars and trucks marketed globally. The move reinforced the strength of what was already one of the most-recognized automotive emblems in the world. More than 4.25 million Chevrolets were sold in more than 120 countries and regions during 2010.

About Chevrolet -- Founded in Detroit in 1911, Chevrolet celebrates its centennial as a global automotive brand with annual sales of about 4.25 million vehicles in more than 120 countries. Chevrolet provides consumers with fuel-efficient, safe and reliable vehicles that deliver high quality, expressive design, spirited performance and value. The Chevrolet portfolio includes iconic performance cars such as Corvette and Camaro; dependable, long-lasting pickups and SUVs such as Silverado and Suburban; and award-winning passenger cars and crossovers such as Spark, Cruze, Malibu, Equinox and Traverse. Chevrolet also offers "gas-friendly to gas-free" solutions including Cruze Eco and Volt. Cruze Eco offers 42 mpg highway while Volt offers 35 miles of electric, gasoline-free driving and an additional 344 miles of extended range. Most new Chevrolet models offer OnStar safety, security and convenience technologies including OnStar Hands-Free Calling, Automatic Crash Response and Stolen Vehicle Slowdown. More information regarding Chevrolet models can be found at www.chevrolet.com

Source: GM

Where is Henry's punch bowl?

It's no secret that Henry Ford was one of the greatest minds to have lived in the 20th century. Aside from building some pretty fine automobiles, Henry Ford also dabbled with racing. In 1901 Ford, participated in a race put on by the Detroit Driving Club. He built a car specifically for the race, all in hopes of securing backers for his next automotive venture, which was of course, Ford Motor Company. Also participating was Alexander Winton, a fellow car builder from Cleveland, Ohio who was also considered the best driver in the country at the time. Winton's entry in the race was secured by letting him pick the trophy for the race which was a cut glass punch bowl set. And it was picked because Winton had a spot in front of a window in his home where it would look perfect and "really tie the room together". What Winton didn't count on was Henry Ford's determination. The race officials changed the format from a 25 lap endurance race (that was a lot in 1901) to a 10 lap sprint. While Winton's car was vastly more powerful than Henry Ford's "Sweepstakes" racer. The size and light weight of Ford's car gave the advantage. Catching and passing Winton's car by the eighth lap. Winning the race, Henry Ford did was any driver would do, by taking the punch bowl home. After Henry Ford's wife Clara's death in 1950, many of the Ford's possessions were auctioned off. This included the punch bowl, which sadly, no one knew the meaning of.


Now, Edsel Ford II want's it back. Ford Motor Company and the Ford family now fully understand the special meaning of the punch bowl and want it back, badly. The punch bowl is wanted for a new addition to The Henry Ford museum called Racing in America. All in an effort to teach and raise awareness of the science and technology of motor racing. And the punch bowl is an extremely significant part of that history.  Edsel Ford is hoping that thanks to the Internet that the punch bowl can be found. It is known that it was purchased by a private collector in the 1950 auction. So hopes are that it's out there somewhere. Look at the picture carefully. Perhaps it is sitting on your grandmother's dining room table. You could be the hero of the Ford family!

In the garage: 2012 Scion xB

Many of you may remember how impressed we were with the 2009 Scion xB as one of our first test cars. So much so that another has been added to the fleet. We recently picked up our new tester and have enjoyed it just as much as our last Scion. Our new xB is painted in a very understated Army Rock metallic, and like our previous 2009 is void of options. That being said, you do get A/C, a 160 watt Pioneer stereo with CD player,  iPod and MP3 jacks, standard disc brakes w/ ABS, traction and stability control, power windows and locks, and just about everything else you'd expect to find standard.

Our car again has the 2.4 liter DOHC 16 valve 4 cylinder that offers relatively good performance at 158 horse power. This time, we opted for the 5 speed manual transmission. Toyota rates the fuel economy at 22 City/28 Highway. So far we have averaged 23.3 MPG, though it's not like we're exactly light on the gas.

 Inside the xB is very roomy. the seats sit at chair height and are fairly comfortable. Since our 2009 xB, I have noticed that one major change Scion made was the addition of a traditional center arm rest for the front seat passengers.  The radio, heater and A/C controls, and the gear shift are all right at your finger tips. With the  5 speed manual, this makes for a very comfortable driving position. Otherwise, the car really has changed very little. But that's not really a bad thing. The only recommendation that still carries over from the 2009 xB is to have the addition of an arm rest for the 60/40 rear split seat. This would make for longer trips more comfortable for those riding in the rear seat. Look for more updates soon!

Toyota Celica Coupe Sports Car Review

Toyota Celica is a coupe sports car manufactured by Toyota Motor Corporation, Japan from October 1970 until April 2006. Over the past 36 years, there are seven generations of Celica, with a total cumulative production of over 4.1 million units.

Styling and handling is an important point of the Celica, where this car comes with an attractive exterior design as well as fun to drive because its steering is responsive and communicative, steady handling, and braking distance to stop short.

Large market for the Celica is the United States, Japan, Europe, and Australia.

Celica is the official used Toyota cars in the world rally championship / World Rally Championship (WRC) from 1972 to 1986 model with rear wheel, and from 1988 to 1997 model with the GT-Four 4WD berpenggerak. WRC Celica to be made by Toyota Team Europe in Cologne, Germany.

After Celica discontinued in 2006, his position sebgai compact sports car made by Toyota were replaced by the Scion tC in North America. For other regions, Toyota has not prepared a replacement.

First Generation (1970-1977)

Toyota Celica Coupe was first shown in 1970 Tokyo Motor Show in October, and began to be marketed in December 1970 in Japan. The model is marketed is 1400ET, 1600LT, 1600ST, 1600GT, and 1600GTV. Model 1600GTV engined 1600GT and the high ability 2T-G Twin Cam. Year 1972 was launched with the 2000GT model 18R-G engine.

In April 1973, the line-up Celica Liftback coupled with a more practical shape with the rear glass door that can be opened up and the back seat that folded. Liftback version is 1600ST, 1600GT, 2000ST, and 2000GT.

Celica Coupe facelift model of the front upright as Liftback models already sold in Japan in 1974, and for the export market in late 1975 to model year 1976. This model has a wheelbase slightly longer than the initial model Coupe.

In the United States, the Celica was first marketed in 1971, the 1900ST, 8R same engine as the Corona Mark II. Years in America 1972-1974 Celica 18R 2.0 liter engine, while the facelift model years 1975-1977 2.2 liter 20R engine. The new GT Liftback models enter the United in 1976, and was awarded the Motor Trend Import Car of the Year.

Second Generation (1977-1981)

Celica, which was launched in August 1977, designed by Calty Design Research in California, USA. Coupe and Liftback models remain available with a 1600cc engine, 1600cc Twin Cam, 1800cc, 1800cc EFI, 2000cc, and 2000cc Twin Cam for the Japanese market. Variant ET, LT, ST, XT, SE, GT, and GTV. In 1978 GTV was replaced by the Rally GT. In America, the Celica ST and GT remain 20R 2200cc engine.

Throughout history, the Celica's most widely produced and sold in 1978, which in America alone sold about 200,000 units. For this second generation, in the Japanese market there are 70 different models of the Celica, even though at one time there are 49 in 1979.

Facelift model with front light box was launched in late 1979 to model year 1980. Celica Sunchaser Convertible form-based semi-notchback coupe body of a car made by a company in California. To celebrate 10 years of Celica, Coupe GTA models marketed in the United States. In 1981, the engine was replaced by 20R 22R 2400cc engine.

In addition to the GT model 2T-G engine Twin Cam 1600 cc or 2000 cc 18R-G, the Celica coupe car in general is a capable regular and relatively cheap.

Celica Liftback is the basis for the second generation Celica Celica Supra XX or who later became the Toyota Supra. Celica Supra XX or having a wheelbase that is longer so that the engine room to accommodate the larger 6-cylinder engine.

Especially for the Japanese market, Toyota Celica Camry launched in 1980. Car-shaped 4-door sedan is actually a luxurious and sporty version of the Toyota Carina. Borrowing the name of the Celica is very popular at that time, this car is the forerunner of the Camry which was officially launched in 1982.

Third Generation (1982-1985)

Following the trend of the 1980s, the Celica comes with a box body design, but elegant. Coupe and Liftback remain available, and in 1984 coupled with a model with a roof can be opened, the Convertible is made by American Sunroof Corporation (ASC). As before, the engine is mounted on the Celica is a 1600cc, 1800cc, 2000cc and 2400cc for America. For the 1800cc engine is new 1S, 3T, and 3T-GTEU equipped turbo.

First to use turbo Celica GT-T is only sold in Japan. Then also created a luxurious GT-TR, and GT-TS which only 200 units for rally homologation Group B. Celica GT-TS is the basis for the Celica Twin Cam Turbo rally car that won the Safari Rally and Rally Ivory Coast between the years 1983-1986.

In Europe, Australia and some Asian countries, Celica 21R 2000cc engine is the same as the Corona Mark II model 2000XT. 2T-engined Celica 1600ST, and 2000GT with 18R-G engine is also marketed in Europe.

Facelift done for 1984 with a fully retractable headlights. Grille, taillights, and door handles are also changing. 2T-G engine was replaced by a new 4A-GE engines mounted on the Celica 1600GT and 1600GT-R. For the Australian market, the Celica 22R 2400cc engine facelift model similar to the American version.

Fourth Generation (1986-1989)

Major changes are fundamentally due to the Celica switch from rear-wheel drive to front wheel drive. Coupe models only for U.S. and export to several countries. The most basic and cheapest model is the ST. GT in the U.S. has more equipment than ST, but the same 2S-FE engine for 1986, which was later replaced by the 3S-FE engine for 1987. GT is available in Coupe, Convertible and Liftback.

In Japan, the first Celica Liftback only sold in the form, the model Convertible 3S-FE engine is present in 1987. Celica GT-R (or GT-S in America / GTI in Europe) 3S-GE engine is a terkencang with front-wheel drive. In Australia, marketed in this generation Celica ST Coupe and Liftback models with 3S-FE engine, and SX Liftback with 3S-GE engine.

Berpenggerak Celica 4WD and turbo 3S-GTE engine is equipped with intercooler, GT-Four (ST165) was launched in Japan in October 1986, and began to be exported in 1988. GT-Four initial models have a Differential Switch, while the facelift model comes with a viscous coupling limited slip differential. In the USA, GT-Four marketed under the name All-Trac Turbo.

Celica GT-Four ST165 first joined WRC in 1988. Carlos Sainz won the world rally in 1990 by riding ST165. This car also won the national rally in the UK, as well as appearing in the Rally of Indonesia in 1989 and 1990.

Fifth Generation (1990-1993)

There are four kinds of body shapes for the fifth-generation Celica, the Coupe, Convertible, normal Liftback body, and Liftback wide body. Liftback wide body has front and rear fenders wider, this body form is only for the GT-S model, GT-Four A (All-Trac Turbo), and GT-Four RC (Carlos Sainz Limited Edition). In Japan, the GT-Four also have a normal body for the years 1990-1991.

For Japan, the Celica is offered with a choice of three 2.0-liter Twin Cam engine, 3S-FE for the SR and ZR, 3S-GE to GT-R, Active Sports, and Convertible, and the 3S-GTE for the GT-Four.

4-wheel steering (4WS) in which the rear wheels can turn with a small angle standard on the GT-R and Active Sports, or optional on SR and ZR. Auto tilt-away steering wheel standard on the ZR, GT-R, and GT-Four in which the wheel would go up if the ignition is removed, and returned to its original position when the ignition is set to be installed.

In America and Australia, given the front-wheel drive Celica 2200 cc Twin Cam engine 5S-FE which energy is smaller, but big torque. While the engine 1600 cc 4A-FE 1.6 ST models only sold in the United States, Europe, and several other countries. GT-R models sold in Europe as the 2.0 GT-i 16 or better known as the GT. This contrasts with the GT in America. GT America is almost the same as the SX sold in Australia. Wide body model GT-S 5S-FE engine also the same with GT and SX. SRS airbag is standard for all models perkengkapan Celica in the United States began in 1990.

Celica GT-Four (ST185) 2000 cc engine with 3S-GTE twin-entry turbo and intercooler, berpenggerak Full-Time 4WD or All-Wheel Drive with viscous coupling center limited slip differential and Torsen rear differential. To follow the world rally championship (World Rally Championship), Toyota made 5.000 units of the GT-Four homologation special model called the GT-Four RC or Carlos Sainz Limited Edition. This model has a water-to-water intercooler that replaces the water-to-air intercooler on the regular GT-Four. Form the hood and front bumper is also different to provide better air circulation in the engine.

GT-Four Celica ST185 is the most successful in the WRC with three-time world champion Carlos Sainz in which the rally world champion for the second time in 1992. Juha Kankkunen won his fourth world title in 1993, and Didier Auriol became the first French man who became world champion in 1994. With the success of the Celica GT-Four, Toyota is Japan's first automobile factory became world rally champion. Unlike the GT-Four production version of the 5 speed manual transmission, the GT-Four for the rally has a manual transmission X-trac 6 speed.

Sixth Generation (1994-1999)

The sixth generation Celica has 4 pieces of round headlights are great. Bodynya slightly larger but lighter than the fifth generation. Coupe models only for Americans, Liftback and Convertible sold in world markets. There are five kinds of machines for the Celica, the 1.8 liter 7A-FE, 3S-FE and 3S-GE 2.0-liter, 2.2 liter 5S-FE and 3S-GTE 2.0 liter turbo.

Trim levels for the Japanese market is the SS-I, SS-II, SS-III, Convertible, and GT-Four. Model SS-I equipped with a 4-wheel steering. Model SS-II are exported to Europe and some Asian countries as a GT. SS-III 3S-GE engine with beams of high ability, sport suspension Super Strut, and specifically for the manual transmission is also equipped Helical Limited Slip Differential.

In America the 6th generation Celica was only sold in the ST-engined version of the 1800 cc and 2200 cc engined GT with a GT is different in other countries. Offered in GT Liftback and Convertible form. Optional Sport Package is only for the version of the GT Liftback. From now on all Celica for America has SRS airbags for driver and front passenger.

Like the two previous generations, the Celica GT-Four terkencang is that in this generation of coded ST205. For the Japanese version of the 3S-GTE engine in the ST205 betenaga PS 255, PS 242 while for export. For homologation rally, made 2500 units GT-Four WRC injector which has a water sprayer and a high rear spoiler.

Celica GT-Four ST205 Group A first version to compete in the Rally of Australia in 1994, and became the official car in the world rally championship (WRC) in 1995. This car also appeared in the Rally of Indonesia in 1996 and 1997.

For Australia, Celica Liftback be marketed in the form of a version of the SX, ZR, and GT-Four. SX and ZR 2200 cc engined GT the same as in America. Although the SX and ZR are basically the same, but the ZR has more luxury equipment such as alloy wheels, ABS, airbags, and cruise control. GT-Four only sold 77 units, all models WRC or Group A Rallye. Sunroof is optional equipment for all models.

In Japan, America, and Australia, the Celica is available with five speed manual transmission or 4 speed automatic, except the GT-Four that the manual only. In Europe all the Celica manual transmission, a model for Europe is 1.8 ST, 2.0 GT Liftback and Cabriolet, as well as the GT-Four.

Celica gets facelift for model year 1996. To celebrate 25 years of Celica in 1996, 25th Anniversary Limited Edition model launched based SS-III, ST Liftback and GT Convertible.

In December 1997, the Celica for the Japanese market received another facelift. 3S-GE engine on the model SS and SS-II-III received VVT-i beams. High rear spoiler comes back on the model GT-Four, and a new equipment for the SS-III. Model SS-III also comes with a front spoiler, side and rear. Projector headlights are optional.

To increase sales, some limited edition model was launched in 1998 as the SR-based Celica 1.8 ST for the UK market, as well as the Celica SX SX-R based in Australia.

Seventh Generation (2000-2006)
 

Basically there are only two models of the last generation Celica is powered ZZT230 1ZZ-FE 1.8 liter VVT-i, and high capacity engined ZZT231 2ZZ-FE 1.8-liter VVTL-i. VVT-i version called the GT in the U.S., or SS-I in Japan, while the engine VVTL-i is the GT-S in the United States, or SS-II in Japan. In Australia all VVTL-i-engined models, for both SX and ZR models.

Celica Transmission for the 1ZZ-FE engine is a 5 speed manual, 6 speed manual or 4 speed automatic. While the 2ZZ-GE engine uses six speed manual transmission or 4 speed tiptronic automatic with shift buttons on the steering wheel.

Celica is smaller and lighter than previous generations, thus providing a comparison of power and a good load and more nimble. Wheelbase is longer and a shorter front overhang also makes it more stable.

With the opening of valves imported cars in Indonesia in late 1999, the Celica is a lot of entry into Indonesia. Outstanding model here is the SX and ZR from Australia, as well as the SS-I and SS-II from Japan. Celica from Australia has a sign on the front fender light and manual air conditioning. While the Japanese Celica comes with indicator lights on the front bumper and air conditioning with digital climate control for model SS-II.

Is optional for the Celica Sports Package and Mechanical Elegant Sports Package. Elegant given only under the additional spoiler, while Mechanical has a different front bumper with larger grille, as well as full body kit includes spoilers on the bonnet and the trunk is higher.

In Europe all used Celica 6 speed manual transmission. 1ZZ-FE engine models marketed in the trim level 1.8 VVT-i Standard, Style, and Premium. While that is equivalent to the GT-S or SS-II engine called the 1.8 2ZZ-GE VVTL-i T-Sport. In 2005, also marketed the European version of the Celica GT. It is a given T-Sport body kit and larger alloy wheels, and not the same as GT in America.

2005 was the last year in the Celica America. Celica production ended in April 2006. Celica production last year was only sold in Japan.

Resources : Toyota cars collection 2011

Hyundai i20 Specification And Detail review 2011

Hyundai i20 2011-Specifications and details of Hyundai i20. The first impression that can be felt on the successor to the Hyundai Getz car is a very strong European feel. Hyundai i20 is a product to two: The "i" opener for Hyundai products with the code "i" in Indonesia. Entire Hyundai products with the code "i", created for its main markets are: Europe, where we know that European markets are very concerned with Fitures Safety, Comfort and Fuel Consumption.

Hyundai i20 Specifications :

* Gasoline Engine, 4-cylinder, 1396 cc
* Diesel, 4-cylinder, 1396 cc
* Power 100 Hp@5.500 rpm (petrol), 90 Hp@4.000 rpm (diesel)
* Torque Nm@4.200 136 rpm (petrol), 221 Nm@1.750-2.750 rpm (diesel)
* Automatic Transmission, 4-speed (petrol), Manual, 5-speed (diesel)
* Acceleration 0-100 kph na
* Fuel consumption 14.0 kpl (gasoline), 25.0 (diesel)

As the car developed in Europe, the i20 has a characteristic appearance on the ignition. key form is reminiscent of the property premium class cars of BMW, Audi and Mercedes Benz has various features in it.

And not only the ignition key alone which has the complete feature. just look at the exterior of this compact hatchback hyundai. foglamp, sunroof, alloy plek 16 inches, and disc brakes on all four wheels have become standard SG i20. I20 market prices are still cheaper than the incumbent market, Honda Jazz or a newcomer to the Peugeot 3008.


Specifications Details :

Machine Type: 1400 cc, 16 valve DOHC
Max. Power: 100 ps / 5,500 rpm
Max. Torque: 13.9 kg.m / 4,200 rpm
Transmission: 5-speed MT / 4-speed AT
Steering: Rack and pinion with Motorized Power Steering (MPS)
Safety Features: Airbag System, Tilt & Telescopic Steering
Wheel & Tire: 16 "& 205/50/R16
Suspension: Front Mac Pherson Strut, Rear Torsion Beam
Brake: Front 14 "Disc with ABS, Rear 14" Disc with ABS
Dimensions: P. 3940 mm x L 1710 mm

Interior & Exterior:

Air Conditioner
Power Windows
CD Player
Sunroof *
Fog Lamp *
Parking Sensor *
Cool Box
Keyless Entry
EURO-3 Standard
Folding Mirror
Elegant Door Handle
*) Type SG

6 Variant Colors

Diamond Black, Sleek Silver, Dark Grey Metallic
Crystal White, Sparkle Blue, Electric Red

Four wheel Drive 4WD or 4X4 Abbreviated

4-wheel driving (four-wheel drive 4WD or 4X4 abbreviated) is the term used in a vehicle that has motive power to all four wheels. 4x4 vehicles have the capability aims to gain sufficient traction in all road conditions, for example:

for use in severe terrain such as steep slopes, slippery roads or muddy roads, generally this type of vehicle type jeep or SUV.

for use on high-speed vehicle with road surface conditions are not the same, generally this type of vehicle type luxury sports such as Audi's quattro, DaimlerChrysler 4MATIC used in Mercedes-Benz products, BMW with the xDrive, and Volkswagen 4motion.

for use on a production version of the car rally, like the Audi Quattro, Lancia Delta Integrale, Toyota Celica GT-Four, Subaru Impreza WRX, Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. Car-sized compact sports car has a Full-Time 4WD or All Wheel Drive, which provides more traction on all sorts of road surfaces.

How it works

On vehicles with four-wheel drive, the machine is connected with the center differential (transfer case) that divides the power to the rear wheels and front wheels. Because when using 4-wheel drive, higher energy use, usually 4-wheel drive is only used in times of need alone, with activated via a specific button or lever.

Model and type

Based on the model and type, can be grouped as follows:

Part-time, 4WD operation only at certain times according to road conditions.
Full-time, 4WD is always plugged in all road conditions.
Manual, 4WD activation done mechanically by shaking a particular lever. In some types of vehicles even need to be rotated as the wheel axles.
Automatic, 4WD activation is done by the (semi automatic) or a specific sensor (full automatic).

In its application, the fourth model combines a variety of vehicles or types mentioned above.

Another Pittsburgh dealer closes its doors

After 41 years serving the North Hills. Demors Linclon ceased operations as of Tuesday. Demors began business as a Lincoln Mercury dealer in 1970. However due to the loss of the Mercury brand and struggles that still exist in the auto industry caused Demors to be one of many long time dealers in the area to close their doors. McKnight Road is no stranger to automotive dealerships. Currently North Hills Toyota, Baierl Kia, and Mick's Chrysler/Dodge/Jeep all make residence on McKnight. McCrackin Ford also made its home on McKnight before closing in 2007. Their building still sits empty on one of the busiest sections of McKnight, sitting across the street from Ross Park Mall. That area seems to be struggling  for new business and a makeover as many storefronts in the Ross Towne Center is also void of many stores after Circuit City, Damon's and Roomful Express have all vacated within recent years.

But back to Demors. What does this now mean for Lincoln and Mercury vehicle owners in the North Hills? Of course any Ford dealer can service the cars with no problems. So that gives owners the option of servicing at Shults Ford in Wexford. Unfortunately, this leaves the sales gap open at a very crucial time for Ford Motor Company as it works with the Lincoln brand in redeveloping its image. Just as General Motors is doing so with Cadillac. Will we see another Lincoln dealer open in the North Hills? I certainly hope so. With the brand image that Ford is moving forward with, with Lincoln being a stand alone brand. I can see an entirely new dealership built to reflect the Lincoln image. But it would have to be north of Ross Township to better compete with other dealers. Both Cadillac and Lincoln are working to take on a more youthful buyer segment and thus the DeVille and Town Car nameplates respectively have been dropped by each brand. Hopes are to bring entirely new flagship vehicles to each brand, but both are difficult vehicles to replace. Just as dealerships are. We are sad to see Demors close, but it unfortunately is one of the necessary evils that we have to face in the auto industry.