Elite Auto Rental Blog

The German-built Porsche 911 sports car has been ironing out the world’s pavement for more than 40 years. With that, one would guess it to be the brand’s top selling vehicle. Not so.

Enter the Porsche Cayenne SUV. Since its debut in 2003, Cayenne has outsold the legendary 911 by nearly 25 percent with over 150,000 purchased units — more than double the anticipated number.

For 2008, the second-generation Porsche Cayenne gets a dash of refreshed design that steps further away from the previous 911-styling cues to give Cayenne a look all its own, with slimmer swept-back headlamps and a newly-styled lower front fascia. Bulging wheel arches and a revised rear valance give Cayenne’s body a muscular accent.

Inside, five occupants are treated to a cabin outfitted with leather upholstery and satin nickel accents. Seats offer firm support for long distance driving with ample leg and headroom.

But the most important chapter of the Cayenne story is under the hood.

Porsche Cayenne comes with a potent 3.6-liter V-6 engine coupled to a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission that generates 290 horsepower while delivering fuel economy, based on the new EPA methods for 2008 vehicles, of 14 miles per gallon around town and 20 mpg on the highway.

The mid-level Cayenne S comes loaded with a 4.8-liter V-8 and automatic only transmission that develops 385 horsepower, while the top-of-the-line Cayenne Turbo model produces a whopping 500 horsepower and 516 foot-pounds of torque from the same engine.

Porsche showcased its latest Cayenne trio to the automotive press last month at Continental Proving Grounds in Uvalde, Texas, where we exercised the models in a Pentathlon competition.

Highlighting the event was a Baja-style rally cross, a drag race to 100 mph, a 200-yard slalom, a twisty wet test-track and a high-speed serpentine road course.

Porsche’s wet road test was a testament to Cayenne’s standard all-wheel drive prowess as the SUV pasted the water-soaked track with absolute competence. Standard anti-lock brakes, traction control and antiskid system with rollover sensors made the fast-paced exercise safe and controlled.

Turbo models infused with supercar horsepower found a 0 to 100 mph time within the low 12-second range. Turbos come with a specifically tuned suspension and larger brakes to help bring the beast to a smooth stop.

The spirited competition of the rally cross, road course and slalom helped to demonstrate Cayenne’s Dynamic Chassis Control which constantly monitors the front and rear anti-roll bars that virtually eliminates body roll through S-curve and twisty maneuvers.

Standard on all models is a “Sport Button” that modifies the engine, transmission and suspension settings for high performance driving.

To punctuate that point, a professional driver unleashed a 5,191-pound Cayenne Turbo loaded with three helmet-donned journalists for a two-lap blast around Continental’s eight-mile oval track. We reached a top-speed of 161 mph.

The 2008 Porsche Cayenne SUV is off-road capable with an optional air suspension that clears more than 10.5 inches of back road debris. Cayenne’s V-6 model clears 8.6-inches and crosses the bottom line at $43,400.

Source: http://nwitimes.com/articles/2007/04/29/wheels/wheels/docbca3f8a6a31a6c7f862572c900821e24.txt

Developed at its Pan Asia Technical Automotive Center in China, the Buick Riviera concept bowed at the Shanghai auto show, signifying the importance of the Chinese market for the GM division, which now accounts for more Buick sales than those in the U.S.

In addition to resurrecting a legendary Buick nameplate, the Riviera is also a technical showcase for a new hybrid power system that GM is promising to build with its Chinese partner, Shanghai Automotive Industry Corporation (SAIC).

The Riviera has a carbon-fiber body, a bold waterfall grille and large gullwing doors. LED headlamps sweep up into the front fenders, and the lighting modules are punctuated by Buick’s signature Ventiports–three per side, which indicates that the hybrid powerplant will likely employ a V-6.The new expressive shape, which also incorporates Buick’s “sweep spear” character lines, is said to point a future design direction for all Buicks, according to GM Design VP Ed Wellburn. It also underscores that future Buicks will be developed in China as well as the U.S.

Inside, the Riviera features an organic design approach, with traditional wood accents, blue trim and cream-colored leather. The chrome bezel around the dash is a modern interpretation of classic instrumentation from ’50s and ’60s’ Buicks, while the touch pad on the center console is designed to resemble a computer mouse. Ambient light strips run through the door trim panels and the center console adding, another dimension to the car’s interior.

The Riviera rides on 21-in. 10-spoke alloy wheels shod with ultra-low-profile tires. While the interior is snug, glass panels on top of the gullwings give the occupants a panoramic view out.

Italian luxury carmaker Maserati used the North American International Auto Show to highlight the addition of a new, 6-speed hydraulic automatic transmission to its Quattroporte.

“The Maserati Quattroporte with fully automatic gearbox is a fundamental innovation for us,” said Roberto Ronchi, chief executive officer and general manager of Maserati S.p.a.

He noted the company didn’t want to tamper with the Pininfarina design of the car or make big changes, because the vehicle has been successful with total sales worldwide of 9,000. All of the sales so far have been with Maserati’s DuoSelect manual gearbox, which continues to be offered.

German transmission builder ZF developed the new transmission with Maserati to provide fluid, seamless shifting. Maserati said it was particularly important that the car’s V8 engine power comes on strongly at low speeds and without limits.

The Quattroporte has a 400-horsepower 4.2-liter double overhead cam V8. Peak torque is 339 lb-ft with the new automatic transmission and 332 lb-ft with the DuoSelect.

Maserati said the addition of the automatic should help Quattroporte sales in the U.S., “where customers are used to long journeys and are particularly attentive to driving comfort.”

The new 6-speed automatic also is available in the Quattroporte Executive GT and the Sport GT models.

Ronchi also announced the establishment of a captive finance unit in the U.S., called Maserati Financial Services Corp., late last year. The company, a collaboration with CNH Capital, works with Maserati dealers to provide financing and leasing for Maserati customers.

By Ann Job

http://autoshow.autos.msn.com/autoshow/detroit2007/Article.aspx?cp-documentid=2243648

The second generation of Land Rover’s compact SUV, now called the LR2 instead of the Freelander, slots into the compact segment of the company’s lineup. Its new design, enhanced power and on-road manners are superior to the Freelander.

Land Rover said the goal of the LR2 is to provide the smooth ride, accomplished performance and attractive cabin of a premium sedan while maintaining the capabilities of an SUV, and it succeeds.

Prices begin at $34,700, and that includes a long list of standard equipment.

The design, which carries cues from both the LR3 and Range Rover Sport, has a geometric simplicity.

The five-door body has a tight and strong structure that enhances both ride comfort and performance. The fully independent suspension swallows bumps nicely. Vehicle stability control with rollover sensors is standard.  The LR2 is powered by a 3.2-liter, 230-horsepower,inline six-cylinder engine that is derived from the one used in Volvo’s new S80 sedan. Ford Motor Co owns Land Rover and Volvo.

This engine’s overall size has been reduced by mounting most of its accessories directly to the rear of the engine. Variable valve timing and two camshaft profiles broaden this engine’s power output so it is responsive and efficient at low speeds, yet still has high-speed muscle.

The transversely mounted engine is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that can be shifted manually.

The LR2 is primarily an urban SUV that has permanent all-wheel drive. While I’m sure it can handle moderate off-road work, the lack of a two-speed transfer case means it is not intended for rock climbing or mud plugging. Gradient Release Control helps hold the vehicle when it starts off on steep or slippery slopes.

The LR2 also uses Land Rover’s Terrain Response system that allows the driver to select different vehicle performance characteristics with a knob on the console. Terrain Response enhances driving in snow, sand and off-road.

The LR2’s interior has generous head, shoulder and leg room. The glass areas are large, and rear-seat passengers sit slightly higher than those in front. A two-part glass sunroof adds to the feeling of openness.

The steering wheel has fingertip controls for cruise control and the audio system. The audio system’s menu system can be confusing at times, and the navigation screen does not have a backup camera. Backup cameras are tremendously helpful in SUVs, and some competing models in this price range have them.

Standard features include keyless ignition, one-touch automatic power windows, bi-xenon headlamps, headlamps that move with the steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear park distance control. The navigation system and upgraded audio system with 14 speakers and surround sound is optional.

The base price of the test vehicle was $34,700. Options included the navigation system with Bluetooth telephone capabilities and satellite radio, heated front windshield, heated front seats, bi-xenon headlights and memory for the driver’s seat. The sticker price was $39,950.

The warranty is for four years or 50,000 miles, with a five-year, 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

To reach Tom Strongman, send e-mail to tom@tomstrongman.com.

Point: The LR2 is vastly superior to the outgoing Freelander. The engine has more power, the styling is handsome, and the interior is as comfortable as a premium sedan’s. All-wheel drive is great for modest off-roading and inclement weather.

Counterpoint: Audio system menus could be simpler, and a backup camera is not available.

Engine: 3.2-liter, 230-hp 6-cylinders

All-wheel drive

Wheelbase: 104.7 inches

Curb weight: 4,255 pounds

Base price: $34,750

As driven: $39,950

MPG rating: 16 city, 23 highway
Source: http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2007/04/28/business/sj2tn20070427-0429wcj_rover.ii1.txt

The Audi brand is in full-blown growth mode right now, with newer products like the Q7 and A3 soon to be joined by the A5 and R8, and Audi promises that 22 new products in total are on the way. Perhaps the most eagerly anticipated product of all is the forthcoming R8, which has garnered lots of attention from news media and enthusiasts alike. Since Audi’s supercar has been well-received, why not add a smaller Boxster-fighter to keep the good vibes going?

We’ve already told you about speculation that Audi was cooking up an R4 for 2009 or 2010, and now South Africa’s topCar magazine is giving us more gas for the flame. We like Audi’s 2.0L FSI turbo four, but at 270 hp, powering a 2,500-2800lb car, we’d like it even more. topCar reports that an all-new platform is being designed for the R4, with a steel spaceframe and plastic and aluminum body panels. Of course, a more sporty RS4 is rumored to be on the way as well, which could be powered by a 2.5L inline five with 350 hp.

It seems like everything under the sun is scheduled to appear in 2009 and 2010, and if even half of it comes to fruition, we’ll be some busy bloggers. We hope the R4 is among the projects that makes the cut.

[Source: Wheels24 via Winding Road]

You’d most likely to be turning up on your own in this car unless you could shoehorn a passenger into the carbon fiber pod next to you. Having a race circuit as your destination would be helpful, too. The Audi R10 racecar is powered by a completely new 650-horsepower 5.5-liter 12-cylinder bi-turbo turbodiesel engine, which is extremely economical and quiet. This car is famous for a blistering win in the European 24 Hours of Le Mans last year.

By Hugh Poulter 

http://autoshow.autos.msn.com/autoshow/detroit2007/Article.aspx?cp-documentid=2361941

Hybrid technology is complicated, but it amounts to an electric motor that aids a car’s gasoline engine. The assistance can manifest itself as increased fuel economy, improved performance or both. America has embraced the fuel-efficient hybrid, but the performance hybrid has yet to catch on. Toyota Motor Company, the leader in hybrid technology, has found sales success with fuel-economy-based hybrids such as the Prius, Highlander Hybrid and Camry Hybrid. Toyota’s luxury division, Lexus, introduced the GS450h performance hybrid last year with modest results.

With sales of only about 160 cars per month, the GS450h is on pace for roughly 2000 sales in 2007. That’s not the type of success Toyota is used to, but that doesn’t mean the GS450h is a bad car. Let’s examine how it stacks up against other GS models as well other cars in its class. To find out, we’ll first take a look at what you get for your money.

The GS450h is part of Lexus’ midsize luxury lineup that competes against the likes of the Audi A6, BMW 5-Series, Infiniti M and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. The GS stable also includes the GS350 and the GS430. The GS350 starts at $44,845 and has a 3.5-liter V-6 that makes 303-horsepower. Standard features include curtain side airbags, front knee airbags, antiskid control and leather upholstery.

The $55,615 GS450h uses the same 3.5-liter V-6 as the GS350, but it is teamed with two electric motors to produce an aggregate 340 horsepower. The transmission is a continuously variable automatic that constantly adjusts gear ratios instead of changing gears, though the driver can also manually choose from six preset gear ratios. The GS450h also has rear side airbags, front and rear obstacle detection, a rearview camera, rain-sensing wipers, and a power rear sunshade-all of which are optional on the GS430. That would be more than enough to justify the $2,525 price difference if the powertrains were equal, but they’re not. The GS450h’s powertrain is better. In fact, it’s a technological marvel.

The GS450h’s gas engine doesn’t start until it’s needed, and it shuts off at stoplights, so the car can be on and the engine off. The electric motors are capable of powering the car at low speeds. The powertrain is more impressive, though, when you stomp the throttle. The GS450h can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in a scant 5.3 seconds, 0.4 second faster than the V-8 model, and about a second faster than the base V-6. V-8 versions of the BMW 5-Series and Mercedes-Benz E-Class are slightly faster than the GS450h, but they also cost about $4,000 more. The V-8-powered Infiniti M45 is just as fast and costs about $5,000 less.

The upshot is the GS450h is fast. You will have no problem merging on the freeway, making that tight pass, or getting off to a quick start. Mixed with that V-8-like power is V-6 fuel economy. The EPA ratings are 25 mpg city and 28 highway, compared to 21/29 in the base V-6 model and 18/25 in the V-8 version.

Ride and handling are also quite good, though not up to the world-class standards set by BMW. The adjustable suspension includes sport and normal settings. As expected, handling is a bit sharper in sport mode, but the ride becomes a bit jiggly. The steering is nicely weighted and direct, but not as firm or as sharp as some of the best in the class.

Inside, the materials and build quality match anything offered by the competition. Attractive, soft-touch surfaces abound. While it takes a little time to get used to using the numerous controls, Lexus has, thankfully, opted not to use a central command system like Audi’s MMI or BMW’s iDrive. There a couple hybrid-only features. A power meter, which shows the kilowatts of “boost” the electric motors are giving the engine, takes the spot of the tachometer on the instrument panel. And those who choose the $1,900 navigation system get Consumption and Energy Monitor screens. The Consumption screen displays fuel economy in real time and one-minute increments, and the Energy Monitor screen shows when the gas engine and electric motors are in use.

In the final analysis, Lexus has a bit of a problem. The GS450h is simply a better buy than the V-8-powered GS430. It’s faster, it handles a bit better, fuel economy is improved, and the price is about a wash. Is it better than the competition? Not necessarily. The Infiniti M45 trails the GS450h only in fuel economy, and costs less. For pure driving enjoyment, the BMW 550i is a better choice. And for prestige, you might want to go with the Mercedes-Benz E550. But if you want V-8 power with V-6 fuel economy in a competitive luxury package, you might want to give Lexus’ performance hybrid a try.

Source: http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/news/357565,srch-auto-KB042604.article

Cadillac is continuing its trend to become youthful and exciting. The 2008 STS is updated, but not all-new. Its fresh style is inspired by the last-generation V-series and falls in line with the new CTS, Escalade and Sixteen show car. Its angular grille is bold in comparison to that of its predecessor.

The base 3.6-liter V-6 engine of the STS now produces 298 bhp, up from 254, thanks to direct injection. The same engine will be available in the 2008 CTS. Details of the engine are promised to be made public shortly after the New York auto show. A Hydra-Matic 6L50 6-speed automatic is the only transmission offered, even when equipped with all-wheel drive.

Filling a void between the STS and STS-V will be a performance handling package. It’s available for every engine configuration except the awd V-6. The package is impressive and includes 18-in. wheels shod with 255/45R-18 Michelin Pilot Sport summer performance tires. Large Brembo brakes, 14.0-in. front and 14.4-in. rear, are sure to improve stopping performance.

A new StabiliTrak system is enabled with emergency corrective steering and lane-departure technology. A digital camera mounted behind the rearview mirror is capable of detecting when the car is unintentionally changing lanes-and then alerts the driver with audible and visual cues. The new tech also comes with a blind-spot detection system that uses radar.