A new EX-L variant joins the Civic lineup, adding leather interior trim and heated seats to the otherwise unchanged EX. While only the sedan comes in CNG and Hybrid guise, the coupe and the four-door also are offered in DX, LX, EX/EX-L and the exhilarating Si, with its hot 197-hp engine, 6M gearbox, limited-slip diff and a sport suspension.
Showing posts with label 2008. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2008. Show all posts
2008 Honda Civic EX-L Red Elegant Bodykit
A new EX-L variant joins the Civic lineup, adding leather interior trim and heated seats to the otherwise unchanged EX. While only the sedan comes in CNG and Hybrid guise, the coupe and the four-door also are offered in DX, LX, EX/EX-L and the exhilarating Si, with its hot 197-hp engine, 6M gearbox, limited-slip diff and a sport suspension.
2008 BMW 3 Series Elegant Style Bodykit
Review 2008 BMW 3 Series Elegant Style BodykitIt's hard to make a name for yourself when your big brother's always the center of attention. Just ask the 2008 BMW 328i sedan, which seems doomed to toil in relative obscurity while its steroidal 335i sibling gets all the press. That's a shame, because the 328i is an unequivocal pleasure to drive. It's also roughly $6,000 cheaper than a comparably equipped 335i.
Rather than dismissing the 328i as BMW's entry-level sport sedan, it's best to think of it as a 335i with less motor. These Bavarian brothers are essentially the same everywhere except under the hood. Is the 328i good enough to make you forget about the 335i's extra 70 horsepower and 100 pound-feet of torque? Not a chance. But it's still a world-class sport sedan in its own right, and its buttery-smooth 230-hp inline six-cylinder engine provides enough power for all but the most demanding drivers.
What really set our 328i tester apart was its optional sport package, which provided a magical mixture of handling and compliance. We were treated to the best of both worlds, with a ride that was never harsh, and cornering capabilities that were downright exhilarating. You'd never guess that our 328i had the sport package from its supple composure over bumps and ruts, yet it carves through the canyons at a pace that would put some purpose-built sports cars to shame. Few vehicles at any price can match the all-around excellence of this sport-tuned chassis.
Of course, the 328i's worth can't be measured by its performance alone. Sport-sedan shoppers want athletic driving dynamics in a practical package — and on the latter count the 328i comes up a little short. This is literally true of the backseat, where headroom and legroom are tight for even moderately tall passengers. The functionality of the stereo and climate controls also leaves something to be desired, and while interior materials are generally top-notch, storage nooks for cell phones and such are few and far between.
If you love to drive, though, the sport package-equipped 328i has no equal in this segment. The only question is whether it's worth ponying up the extra cash for a 335i. That's not for us to judge, but we will say this: We wouldn't blame anyone for pocketing an extra $6 grand along with the keys to a 328i.
Performance
The rear-wheel-drive 2008 BMW 328i is propelled by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine generating a velvety 230 hp and 200 lb-ft of torque. Our test car was equipped with the standard six-speed manual transmission, which has an endearingly light and springy feel through the gates and is paired with a user-friendly, low-effort clutch. We recorded a brisk 0-60-mph sprint of 6.4 seconds en route to a quarter-mile time of 14.6 seconds at 94.7 mph.
It's on twisty two-lane roads that the sport-packaged 328i really comes into its own. The car is simply a peerless handler among compact sport sedans, from its ultra-communicative and perfectly weighted steering to its supremely balanced and unruffled character in tight corners. Weighing in at 3,424 pounds — nearly 200 pounds lighter than a comparably equipped 335i — our 328i felt, if anything, a smidge more tossable than its turbocharged counterpart. At the track, the 328i snaked through the slalom cones at 68.5 mph, a few tenths quicker than a 335i sedan we tested recently, and braked from 60 mph to zero in 110 feet, 6 feet shorter than that 335i's best stop.
Happily, the 328i's outstanding all-around performance doesn't come at the expense of efficiency. We averaged a respectable 22.5 miles per gallon over 1,030 miles of mostly enthusiastic driving, against EPA estimates of 18 mpg city, 28 highway and 21 combined. Our 328i even managed 31.2 mpg during a 213-mile freeway slog — frugal enough to give some four-cylinder econoboxes a run for their money.
Comfort
Wind noise in our 328i was surprisingly noticeable around the windshield and A-pillars; furthermore, excessive turbulence with the sunroof open made al fresco motoring unpleasant above 50 mph. Otherwise, the 328i's driving environment is beyond reproach. Our tester's sublimely comfortable power sport seats coddled drivers of all statures while also providing excellent lateral support during spirited maneuvers. Pedal placement is spot-on, and the sporty small-diameter steering wheel is pleasingly contoured. We also like that the center stack is slightly canted toward the driver, putting all controls within easy reach.
Considerably less impressive is the 328i's backseat, which is only suitable for adults of average height or under. Mainstream economy sedans offer more head- and legroom in back than this premium four-door, and among competing compact sport sedans, only the Lexus IS 250 is less hospitable. The rear outboard seats are nicely shaped, however, so those who do fit will likely enjoy the ride. Moreover, materials quality throughout the cabin is excellent, with abundant soft-touch surfaces complementing the leather upholstery and brushed aluminum trim.
Function
In typical BMW fashion, the analog gauges are a model of simplicity, though the real-time analog fuel economy gauge is a bit gimmicky. Unfortunately, the stereo and climate controls are anything but simple — the radio is operated via a series of identical-looking buttons, and in another nod to BMW tradition, the only way to turn off the climate control system is to press and hold the fan-speed "down" button or tap it repeatedly. To make matters worse, we found that the stereo display becomes illegible when viewed through polarized sunglasses. At least we didn't have to contend with iDrive, though there's no way around it if you want the navigation system.
On the bright side, the base stereo absolutely cranks. We could have sworn it was an upgraded unit until we checked the window sticker and saw that a 10-speaker sound system with two subwoofers comes standard on every 328i. This system remains distortion- and rattle-free at any volume, even with the wonderfully warm and punchy bass turned all the way up. We just wish that a CD changer were standard instead of the anachronistic single-CD player.
We can also report that the 2008 BMW 328i received a passing grade in our real-world usability tests, swallowing our standard suitcase and golf bag with ease and proving just roomy enough in back to accommodate a child safety seat. However, golf bags containing longer-shafted drivers must be carefully maneuvered through the relatively narrow trunk opening, and child-seat installation may require front passengers to pull their seats forward a bit.
Design/Fit and Finish
BMW stylists have come under fire in recent years for tinkering with a design language that many consider timeless. Thankfully, the 3 Series' 2006 redesign was for the most part tastefully done, preserving the car's traditional clipped front overhang and taut proportions. Our biggest beef with the 328i's appearance concerns the sport package's nondescript 17-inch wheels, which aren't up to the standards set by the car's performance — we'd like to see something closer to the striking 18-inch rims that come with the 335i's Sport package. Fit and finish was flawless on our tester, with tight panel gaps and nary a creak or rattle to be heard.
Who Should Consider This Vehicle
At our test car's $41,550 sticker, no one. For a couple thousand less you could get a base 335i. But if you pare down the options to just one — the $1,700 Sport package — you can enjoy every ounce of our tester's performance, as well as standard features like a sunroof and that superb sound system, for about $35,000. At that price, the 2008 BMW 328i almost seems like a bargain for the driving enthusiast who needs four doors. However, those who prefer feature content to dynamic excellence may find competing models more satisfying.
Honda Civic 2008 Blue Bodykit Edition
Honda Civic 2008 Blue Edition is a car bodykit honda output. Blue 2008 Honda Civic bodykit Edition has a beautiful color of blue.modifikasi 2008 Geiger Ford GT, "Race Car true"
Specifications :
Vehicle Type : 2-door coupe, modified car
Engine : 5.4 liter V8
Configuration : Mid Engine/RWD
Aspiration : supercharger
Displacement : 5409 cc
Torque : 617 lb-ft
HP : 701 hp
HP/Liter : 129.8 hp per liter
1/4 mile : 10.9 seconds
0-62 mph : 3.5 seconds
Top Speed : 211 mph (electronically limited)
Transmission : 6-Speed Manual
NYIAS: Saleen S5S Raptor Concept on Web a Day Before Debut
[Via WorldCarFans]
A day before the S5S Raptor by Saleen is undressed at the New York Auto Show and we have official pictures as well as what latent talents the Raptor may have. S5S turns out to be worth some 650 bhp from the 5.0-litre supercharged engine. The 630 lb-ft of torque goes straight to the rear wheels, aided by a 6-speed manual transmission, to guarantee a time of 3.2 seconds from zero to 60 mph. A sequential gearbox will be delivered along after 2010 when the car goes to market, and as is the norm nowadays, it should prove even quicker than the manual. Said rear wheels measure 315/35ZR20s, while the front sports 275/35ZR20s.
The Saleen S5S Raptor carries a price tag of around USD185,000 considered by some as a bargain considering the types of figures we’ve just thrown about. You do pay for speeds in excess of 200 mph.
On top of it all the S5S will run on E85, proving that clean doesn’t have to be performance-dumb. Live pictures from the show will be going up on this site soon after the car’s unveiling.
[Source: Motortrend via Autoblog via Edmunds InsideLine]
A day before the S5S Raptor by Saleen is undressed at the New York Auto Show and we have official pictures as well as what latent talents the Raptor may have. S5S turns out to be worth some 650 bhp from the 5.0-litre supercharged engine. The 630 lb-ft of torque goes straight to the rear wheels, aided by a 6-speed manual transmission, to guarantee a time of 3.2 seconds from zero to 60 mph. A sequential gearbox will be delivered along after 2010 when the car goes to market, and as is the norm nowadays, it should prove even quicker than the manual. Said rear wheels measure 315/35ZR20s, while the front sports 275/35ZR20s.
The Saleen S5S Raptor carries a price tag of around USD185,000 considered by some as a bargain considering the types of figures we’ve just thrown about. You do pay for speeds in excess of 200 mph.
On top of it all the S5S will run on E85, proving that clean doesn’t have to be performance-dumb. Live pictures from the show will be going up on this site soon after the car’s unveiling.
[Source: Motortrend via Autoblog via Edmunds InsideLine]
Saleen Offers Heritage Body Kit For 2005-2008 Mustangs
[Via MustangEvolution]
Saleen has announced that the Heritage styling, which can be found on Heritage Mustangs such as the 2008 Saleen H302 SC, has been made available to 2005-2008 Mustang owners as a complete kit or as individual pieces. The complete kit comes with front and rear fascias, side skirts, spoiler, rear louvers and quarter window panels at a price of $2,499.99. For the complete list of parts and prices check out the *.pdf here.
2008 Saleen H302 SC Mustang with Heritage Body Kit
"Oooh... Nice Car!"
"Just look at them louvres there!"
Saleen has announced that the Heritage styling, which can be found on Heritage Mustangs such as the 2008 Saleen H302 SC, has been made available to 2005-2008 Mustang owners as a complete kit or as individual pieces. The complete kit comes with front and rear fascias, side skirts, spoiler, rear louvers and quarter window panels at a price of $2,499.99. For the complete list of parts and prices check out the *.pdf here.
First Ford Mustang FR500S Race Cars Delivered
[Via WorldCarFans]
By Michael Gauthier
Last year we brought you news from the SEMA show that Ford was preparing to launch a new budget Mustang racer. Now the company has announced they delivered the first 19 Mustang FR500S’ last weekend at the inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series.
New owners were given the chance to meet with series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School. Priced at $75,000 the FR500S race cars sits below other Mustang race cars like the FR500C ($125,000) and the FR500GT ($250,000).
Power is provided by a tweaked version of the standard 4.6L V8 found in the Mustang GT, producing about 325 hp. Changes to the car include a new cold air intake, a modified exhaust system, performance tuning by Roush, a stripped down interior to remove excess weight, the addition of a rear wing and a roll cage. Co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park, a total of 77 Mustang FR500S’ were built by AutoAlliance International in Michigan.
The cars will compete in the Ford Mustang Challenge which will be held at various race tracks across the United States. Sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will only be open to racers with the new FR500S.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Press Release
The inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series held its first official event this past weekend with 19 entrants taking delivery of their new Mustang FR500S race cars in a special program at Miller Motorsports Park.
Participants also had the opportunity to attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, meet series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and shake down their new race cars for the first time during the open track sessions on both Saturday and Sunday.
“The Mustang was a dominant showroom-based race car during the glory days of American road racing in the mid-1960’s and ‘70’s and this car certainly continues that proud tradition,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Performance Group. “Our intent was to develop a fun-to-drive reliable race car that delivers on what people have come to expect from a Mustang – V8 power and rear-wheel drive performance at an affordable price, and I think we’ve accomplished that with the FR500S.
“In the short time since the creation of the Mustang Challenge was announced at SEMA, the interest in the both the FR500S and the series has exceeded our expectations,” Allison continued. “We have a terrific mix of participants that bring experience from various forms of racing, including the Grand Am KONI Challenge Series, which should produce exciting, fender-to-fender racing.”
The FR500S was co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park and is the newest addition to the Mustang FR500 racing family. A total of 77 cars were manufactured at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, MI, with additional race-prep fabrication at Watson Engineering (Taylor, MI) and final race prep at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT, the FR500S is the first race car built by Ford Motor Company at a production facility intended for sale to the public.
The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a new professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park and appeals to racers looking to compete in an affordable, challenging V8-powered rear-wheel-drive car. Utilizing only the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will stage eight races in support of major professional road racing events across North America:
May 2-4
Road Atlanta
HSR
June 13-15
Mosport International Raceway
NASCAR (Canada)
June 20-22
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Grand Am
July 18-20
Barber Motorsports Park
Grand Am
August 15-16
Lime Rock Park
NASCAR (East)
August 29-21
New Jersey Motorsports Park
Grand Am
September 19-21
Miller Motorsports Park (doubleheader)
Grand Am
For more information about the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup or details on how to purchase a Mustang FR500S, please visit www.MustangChallenge.com.
Source: Ford
By Michael Gauthier
Last year we brought you news from the SEMA show that Ford was preparing to launch a new budget Mustang racer. Now the company has announced they delivered the first 19 Mustang FR500S’ last weekend at the inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series.
New owners were given the chance to meet with series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School. Priced at $75,000 the FR500S race cars sits below other Mustang race cars like the FR500C ($125,000) and the FR500GT ($250,000).
Power is provided by a tweaked version of the standard 4.6L V8 found in the Mustang GT, producing about 325 hp. Changes to the car include a new cold air intake, a modified exhaust system, performance tuning by Roush, a stripped down interior to remove excess weight, the addition of a rear wing and a roll cage. Co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park, a total of 77 Mustang FR500S’ were built by AutoAlliance International in Michigan.
The cars will compete in the Ford Mustang Challenge which will be held at various race tracks across the United States. Sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will only be open to racers with the new FR500S.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Press Release
The inaugural Ford Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup racing series held its first official event this past weekend with 19 entrants taking delivery of their new Mustang FR500S race cars in a special program at Miller Motorsports Park.
Participants also had the opportunity to attend the Ford Racing High Performance Driving School, meet series officials, receive technical information from Ford Racing engineers and shake down their new race cars for the first time during the open track sessions on both Saturday and Sunday.
“The Mustang was a dominant showroom-based race car during the glory days of American road racing in the mid-1960’s and ‘70’s and this car certainly continues that proud tradition,” said Jamie Allison, manager of the Ford Performance Group. “Our intent was to develop a fun-to-drive reliable race car that delivers on what people have come to expect from a Mustang – V8 power and rear-wheel drive performance at an affordable price, and I think we’ve accomplished that with the FR500S.
“In the short time since the creation of the Mustang Challenge was announced at SEMA, the interest in the both the FR500S and the series has exceeded our expectations,” Allison continued. “We have a terrific mix of participants that bring experience from various forms of racing, including the Grand Am KONI Challenge Series, which should produce exciting, fender-to-fender racing.”
The FR500S was co-developed by Ford Racing Technology and Miller Motorsports Park and is the newest addition to the Mustang FR500 racing family. A total of 77 cars were manufactured at AutoAlliance International in Flat Rock, MI, with additional race-prep fabrication at Watson Engineering (Taylor, MI) and final race prep at Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, UT, the FR500S is the first race car built by Ford Motor Company at a production facility intended for sale to the public.
The Ford Racing Mustang Challenge is a new professional racing series co-developed by Ford Racing and Miller Motorsports Park and appeals to racers looking to compete in an affordable, challenging V8-powered rear-wheel-drive car. Utilizing only the new Ford Mustang FR500S and sanctioned by the Grand American Road Racing Association, the series will stage eight races in support of major professional road racing events across North America:
May 2-4
Road Atlanta
HSR
June 13-15
Mosport International Raceway
NASCAR (Canada)
June 20-22
Mid-Ohio Sports Car Course
Grand Am
July 18-20
Barber Motorsports Park
Grand Am
August 15-16
Lime Rock Park
NASCAR (East)
August 29-21
New Jersey Motorsports Park
Grand Am
September 19-21
Miller Motorsports Park (doubleheader)
Grand Am
For more information about the Ford Racing Mustang Challenge for the Miller Cup or details on how to purchase a Mustang FR500S, please visit www.MustangChallenge.com.Source: Ford
Ford Recalling 470,000 Mustangs (2005-2008) to Tweak Airbag Software
[Via AutoBlog & Jalopnik & Mustang Evolution]
Ford Motor Co. said Wednesday it is recalling 470,000 Ford Mustangs from the 2005-2008 model years to recalibrate how forcefully the air bag deploys on the front passenger side of the car. Internal testing showed the air bag could injure a small, unbelted passenger, said Ford spokesman Wesley Sherwood. The recall was posted on the website of the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Sherwood said the fix would address “a very rare scenario,” and there were no reports of injuries or accidents tied to the recall.
Nearly 435,000 of the recalled vehicles are in the United States, with most of the remaining vehicles in Mexico and Canada. The Dearborn-based automaker will notify customers by mail in early March. Owners can take their vehicle to a dealer to have the air bag recalibrated to deploy at a lower force. For additional details, owners can call Ford at (866) 436-7332 or visit the company’s Owner Services Website at http://www.ford.com/owner-services.
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