Top Nice Cars: July 2010

Photo Gallery: 2011 Ford Explorer

After weeks of Ford’s infuriating teasers regarding the all-new Explorer, the SUV will start from $28,995 – $1,000 less than the outgoing model. The new Explorer marks a major departure from the outgoing model as the 7 seater model by switching from a BOF (body-on-frame) to a uni-body structure with independent front and rear suspension – shared with the Ford Taurus sedan and Flex. Ford said despite adding more features on the all-new Explorer, engineers were able to reduce gross vehicle weight by around 45kg (100lbs) through the use of lighter materials such as an aluminium bonnet.

Out goes the previous V8 petrol engine for a new base 3.5 litre Ti-VCT V6 engine that produces 290bhp (294PS) and 345Nm (255lb-ft) of torque. This means the 2011 Explorer is 20% more fuel efficient. However, with the towing package, the V6 can haul up to 2,268kg (5,000lbs).

Optional is the all-new 2.0 litre turbocharged 4 cylinder EcoBoost petrol engine, producing 237bhp (240PS) and 339Nm (250lb-ft) of torque from 1,700 rpm. Front wheel drive is standard on all models, but only the AWD is available on the 3.5 litre Ti-VCT engine. Both engines are linked to a 6 speed automatic transmission. Expected is a 355bhp, 3.5 litre turbocharged V6 EcoBoost engine that will be added to the range in the future.

The AWD features a Land Rover-esque Terrain Response. This terrain management system has four settings (normal, mud, sand and snow) and is controlled via a console-mounted knob. This also features hill-descent control. Bi-xenon headlamps will be standard on plusher grades, while Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support and BLIS® (Blind Spot Information System) with cross-traffic alert will be optional.

The entry-level Explorer, called Base will come standard with a 4.2” LCD touch-screen w/ MyFord driver connect, MyKey, air-conditioning w/ air filtration system, Easy Fuel capless fuel filler system, cruise control, tyre perssure monitoring system, x6 airbags, electric power steering, front & rear electric windows w/one touch auto down for driver, remote-control locking w/safety rear door locks, tilt & telescopic steering wheel, x4 12v power points and cargo hooks.

Mid-spec XLT adds rain & dusk sensors, 6 speed SelectShift automatic transmission, electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors w/LED indicators and puddle lamps, SecuriCode™ keyless entry keypad, rear parking sensors and anti-theft alarm.

Flagship Limited includes XLT specification and electric folding door mirrors w/driver’s memory, ambient lighting, electrically adjustable pedals w/memory, cargo net, climate control, 10 way electrically adjustable fronts seats, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, reversing camera, remote start system, 110v power outlet, keyless entry & start and Universal garage door opener.

According to Derrick Kuzak, group vice president of Global Product Development, "The new Explorer simply does everything well. It raises the bar for ride and handling on the road and transforms the off-road experience. It's the hands-down winner for towing capability and ease. All this capability - and three rows of seating - with amazing fuel economy will make Explorer the absolute right choice for families with a sense of adventure."

Look for the 2011 Explorer to arrive at dealerships in Winter, just in time for the snow.

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti interior

errari unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show the 612 Scaglietti One to One - a new personalization program that will allow every client to fully personalise this flagship model, courtesy of a wide array of new content as well as the options available through the Carrozzeria Scaglietti Programme. In fact, a special dedicated "atelier" area has been set up at the factory in which clients can put together their own bespoke 612 Scaglietti accessory by accessory, detail by detail.

The V12 engine has a dry sump lubrication system featuring both delivery and scavenge pumps, twin overhead cams, 48 valves, maximum power of 540 hp at 7250 rpm, maximum torque of 60 kgm at 5250 rpm. The car has a maximum speed of 198 mph, and 0 to 60 mph acceleration of 4.0 secs.

The 612 Scaglietti also sports the aptly named SuperFast gearbox which delivers an exceptional gear-shifting time of 100 milliseconds and a reduced inertia clutch to enhance the engine’s responsiveness still further. The iconic Ferrari manettino, now featured on the entire range, has also been added to the steering wheel.

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti wallpaper

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

2008 Ferrari 612 Scaglietti

2011 Chevrolet Volt requires premium fuel (U.S)

General Motors have said that the 1.4 litre petrol engine in the 2011 Chevrolet Volt will require premium fuel.

The Volt hybrid uses an 111kW electric motor as its primary driving force. When the lithium-ion battery pack is used up after 40 miles (65km), the 80bhp petrol engine comes to life to recharge the motor and battery pack, extending the vehicle's range to 300 (547km) miles plus. Combined engine and electric power comes to 150bhp and 370Nm (273lb-ft) of torque.

Chevy’s 2011 Online Order/Reference Guide for dealers, an entry under the reference code LUU states: "Engine, Range Extender, 1.4L Internal Combustion Engine (estimated: 80bhp [60 kW]), requires premium fuel."

A GM spokesman Adam Denison confirmed: "The Volt's unique architecture causes the onboard engine to act more like a generator. As such, premium fuel is required to maximise fuel efficiency. The use of premium fuel in the Volt increases fuel efficiency by 5 percent or greater over the use of regular fuel. Simply put, premium fuel optimizes this engine's characteristics. Basically, with reduced fuel consumption a key objective, premium fuel is the right solution for the Volt."

Although fuel economy is yet to be announced, GM stresses that the Volt can return 230mpg combined on the U.S cycle. That translates to around 1l/100km.

The 2011 Volt receives an 8 year, 100,000 (160,000km) mile battery warranty. Prices start at $41,000, $33,500 after the $7,500 tax credit. If you fancy leasing, put down a $2,500 security deposit and you can lease the all-new Volt for $350/mth for 36 months. The first 4,400 owners will get a 120v charging cord and a 240v charging station with home installation. A 5 year OnStar 'Directions and Connections' service (which includes Automatic Crash Response, stolen vehicle assistance and connected navigation), 8 airbags (x2 front, side, curtain and knee), ESP w/ traction control will come as standard. On the warranty front, a 3 year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 5 year/100,000 mile road assistance, courtesy transportation and petrol engine warranty, 6 year/100,000 mile corrosion protection coverage, and an 8 year/100,000 mile battery warranty will be available.

Currently available for pre-order at select dealerships (in California, New York, Michigan, Connecticut, Texas, New Jersey and Washington D.C), the first Volts will be delivered late this year. Those who are curious about the Volt can ring 1-888-VOLT-4-YOU (1-888-865-8496) to get any questions answered. Impatient customers can order their new Volt on http://www.getmyvolt.com/.

The Volt will go on sale in the U.S and Europe in 2011.

Buick pondering over station wagon, coupe and convertible (U.S)

In a live web chat aired on GM's official blog, Buick Product Marketing Director, Roger McCormack answered questions from the general public. He said that Buick is looking into increase the brand's line-up in the U.S with new models.

Apart from a small crossover that has been confirmed, McCormack said Buick is considering numerous alternatives including a coupe, convertible with either a soft-top or a hard-top and a station wagon.

One question asked was whether or not Buick is considering a coupe model, in which McCormack answered: “Yes, it’s under very strong consideration".

Another question was about a convertible. He answered; "We are always looking for ways to excite our customers...I think a convertible would do just that. Nothing to announce today but know we will look hard at a convertible option".

All in all, McCormack said: “As we mentioned, we are looking at all options...a coupe, convertible, a wagon, a retractable hardtop and more...we don't know right now which direction we'll go. We think the Buick brand can stretch in a lot of directions."

Unsurprisingly, McCormack didn’t reveal many details about the potential models. However, we imagine that the coupe, station wagon and convertible models would underpin either the Regal (Vauxhall/Opel Insignia) or the Vauxhall/Opel Astra. A sedan variant – badged as Buick Excelle GT in China – is expected to be launched in the U.S next year.

BMW to recall 5 Series GT (U.S)

BMW USA is to recall in excess of 6,000 2010 and 2011 5 Series GT built between 12th January – 1st July, due to a faulty fuel gauge. BMW owners are being cautioned by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration about the problem.

According to NHSTA, the 5 Series GT’s level sensor within the fuel tank can become wedged against the tank. If this happens, the fuel gauge in the instrument cluster will display a larger amount of fuel than what's in the actual tank.

BMW has not yet provided details on when the fix or notification schedule will take place. Concerned owners of the affected models can contact BMW on 1-800-525-7417.

Ferrari FXX Evolution wallpaper

Ferrari FXX Evolution

The car's new traction control system, developed in close collaboration with the GES Racing Division engineers, gives the driver a choice of no less than nine different settings (plus the off position) which are selected using a switch on the central tunnel. This means that the driver really can modify the car's behaviour on the track from corner to corner, just as the Formula 1 drivers do to maximise performance and reduce tyre wear. The Ferrari FXX's traction control is also now less invasive and more flexible, adapting more efficiently to the individual driving style of each driver - a requirement pinpointed when this very extreme car was being driven on the track by non-professional drivers.

The Ferrari FXX's special 19" Bridgestone tyres now last longer too thanks to a new car setup and new front suspension geometry, while the Brembo brakes, which boast large Composite Ceramic Material (CCM) discs, are more efficient with the result that the brake pads last twice as long. Thanks to the drivers' feedback the Ferrari engineers have also developed new aerodynamic solutions aimed at increasing downforce over the rear axle. The Ferrari FXX now sports a new rear diffuser, nolder and rear flaps which have combined to increase aerodynamic efficiency by 25% overall. The active front spoiler control system settings have been adjusted to take these modifications into account too. New telemetry monitoring of the steering angle and brake pump pressure will further boost the interaction between Client test drivers and the company's engineers also. From next year onwards, it will be possible for drivers to have two extra video cameras mounted on their car in addition the existing rear-facing one. This will, of course, give the drivers excellent rear visibility without having to impinge in any way on the car's aerodynamics.

The Ferrari FXX Evolution package includes participation in a series of track events that Ferrari is organising at international circuits for 2008/2009. Six events are planned for each year (two in North America, two in Europe and two in Asia). In addition to these, the FXXs will also be participating, as per tradition, in the prestigious end-of-season Ferrari World Finals.

As happened in 2006/2007, the cars will be backed up at each event by a 15-member official team made up of engineers, electronics experts and mechanics capable of providing complete assistance to clients. Needless to say, the latter will still be able to organise their own private individual track sessions in their car as well.