Audi TT RS Coupe 2010

Audi TT RS Coupe 2010

Audi's second-generation TT Coupe represents an evolution of the original's design, with considerably more daring styling. The new TT is larger (five inches longer, three inches wider), and completely re-engineered.



One of the most noticeable changes is the addition of Audi's new corporate face - aggressive headlights coupled with a large grille. Despite this, the TT maintains its predecessor's overall proportions and design language.

The car is available with a four- or six-cylinder engine. The entry-level turbocharged I4 motor delivers 200 horsepower between 5100 rpm and 6000 rpm, while cranking out 207 pound-feet of torque from a low 1800 rpm, all the way up to 5000 rpm. This model is availalble with front-wheel-drive only.

The more powerful V6 mill serves up 250 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 236 pound-feet of torque in the 2500 to 3000 rpm range. The engine enables the TT to hit 62 mph in 5.7 seconds via its Quattro all-wheel-drive. The car has a spoiler that deploys at 75 mph.

The interior of the car is also vastly different, bringing the TT in line with the standards set by Audi's more expensive models. Audi's interiors are usually the subject of much praise, and it would appear the company wants to keep it that way.

The high-tech Audi magnetic ride damper system is available as an option. In this system, tiny magnetic particles circulate in the oil inside the shock absorbers. When a voltage is applied to them, they alter the damping characteristics within milliseconds. This adaptive system simultaneously ensures high levels of ride comfort and thoroughly sporty dynamism, according to the specific driving scenario and the preferences of the driver.

Auto Insurance Tips: How Much Car Insurance Do You Need?

A growing number of people are dropping their auto insurance to try to save money, according to a recent study by the Insurance Research Council (IRC). If the current rate of unemployment continues, the IRC estimates that the national uninsured rate will climb from 13.8 percent in 2007 to 16.3 percent in 2010. With that many people driving without coverage, it's dangerous to be uninsured. But how much car insurance do you really need?
If you're like many people feeling the pinch, your inclination is to get the bare minimum of insurance coverage required by the law in your state. That's a good place to start, though those minimums may not fully protect you -- or your assets -- if you file a claim. We recommend getting more than the minimum coverage unless you are driving a beater and have no assets to protect.
Every state in the nation, except for New Hampshire and Wisconsin, requires that you have liability insurance, and that mandatory coverage varies according to state.


In the chart below, minimum liability limits are read as follows (in thousands of dollars):

• Bodily injury liability for one person in an accident
• Bodily injury liability for all people injured in an accident
• Property damage liability for one accident

So, for Alabama, the minimum requirements are $25,000 of bodily injury liability for one person, $50,000 bodily injury liability for all people and $25,000 property damage liability.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP), or Medical Payments (MedPay) in some states, pays for your own medical expenses, any lost wages and whatever other costs may arise when you're injured in an accident. It usually pays about 80 percent of your losses, and it also pays a death benefit. PIP is required in: Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania and Utah.
Some states also require you to purchase car insurance that will cover your own medical expenses, pain and suffering losses and, in some states, car damage in the event that the other motorist is at fault and is either uninsured or underinsured. See the chart below to find out if this applies to you.

State	Liability limits (in thousands of dollars)	Uninsured/Underinsured motorist coverage required?
Alabama	25/50/25	No
Alaska	50/100/25	No
Arizona	15/30/10	No
Arkansas	25/50/25	No
California	15/30/5	No
Colorado	25/50/15	No
Connecticut	20/40/10	Yes
Delaware	15/30/10	No
D.C.	25/50/10	Yes
Florida	10/20/10	No
Georgia	25/50/25	No
Hawaii	20/40/10	No
Idaho	25/50/15	No
Illinois	20/40/15	Yes
Indiana	25/50/10	No
Iowa	20/40/15	No
Kansas	25/50/10	Yes
Kentucky	25/50/10	No
Louisiana	10/20/10	No
Maine	50/100/25	Yes
Maryland	20/40/15	Yes
Massachusetts	20/40/5	Yes
Michigan	20/40/10	No
Minnesota	30/60/10	Yes
Mississippi	25/50/25	No
Missouri	25/50/10	Yes
Montana	25/50/10	No
Nebraska	25/50/25	No
Nevada	15/30/10	No
New Hampshire	Not required 25/50/25	Yes
New Jersey	15/30/5	Yes
New Mexico	25/50/10	No
New York	25/50/10	Yes
North Carolina	30/60/25	Yes
North Dakota	25/50/25	Yes
Ohio	12.5/25/7.5	No
Oklahoma	25/50/25	No
Oregon	25/50/10	Yes
Pennsylvania	15/30/5	No
Rhode Island	25/50/25	Yes
South Carolina	25/50/25	Yes
South Dakota	25/50/25	Yes
Tennessee	25/50/10	No
Texas	25/50/25	No
Utah	25/65/15	No
Vermont	25/50/10	Yes
Virginia	25/50/20	Yes
Washington	25/50/10	No
West Virginia	20/40/10	Yes
Wisconsin	Not required 25/50/10	Yes
Wyoming	25/50/20	No

Even though each state has minimum (or no) requirements for bodily injury liability, it is probably in your best interest to purchase higher limits. If someone else is injured and you're at fault, the minimum liability coverage may not cover their medical expenses, in which case their attorney will most likely come after your assets. It is generally recommended that you purchase 100/300 limits of bodily injury liability. On the other hand, if your personal assets don't amount to much, you don't have a whole lot for them to bother about, so the minimum requirements might actually suit you and will save you some much-needed cash.
Besides various forms of liability insurance, there is collision and comprehensive auto insurance coverage to consider. Collision covers damage to the policyholder's car resulting from running into anything, be it another car, a fire hydrant, or a light post. Comprehensive coverage takes care of your car in the case of theft, fire, falling objects, explosions, or other unexpected problems.
Collision and comprehensive coverage are required in most lease contracts, and are essential if you own an expensive car. If you're driving an old rattletrap, on the other hand, and the sum of your premium and your deductible are close to or exceed the worth of your vehicle, you might want to consider doing without this coverage.
Before you purchase any type of auto insurance coverage, be sure to study your other insurance policies so you don't end up paying for something you don't need. If you have a decent health insurance plan, you might get away with purchasing the bare minimum personal injury protection coverage- or none at all if your state doesn¿t require it. However, you might end up paying a co-pay and deductible that wouldn't apply if you have PIP or MedPay.
Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage might also be a wise buy, even if you have full medical coverage, as it can pay for your pain and suffering damages. If you belong to an organization that offers roadside assistance, you don't need to purchase that through your insurer. The same thing applies for mechanical breakdown insurance if you own a newly financed or leased vehicle which is still covered under warranty.
It's easy to be resentful of the money spent on insurance. Keep in mind that auto insurance will most likely come to your rescue at some point, so it's imperative to purchase a worthwhile policy. Know what coverage you must have and know what additional coverage fits your lifestyle. Then if trouble strikes, you'll be ready.

2010 BMW 6-Series

2010 BMW 6-Series

The BMW 650i delivers stellar performance, refined handling and that unique combination of elegance and sportiness that defines BMW.
Available as a coupe or convertible, the rear-wheel drive 650i boasts a 360-hp 4.8-liter V8 engine, mated to a six-speed Sport automatic transmission with steering wheel shift paddles; a six-speed manual transmission is optional. The 650i is equipped with a multitude of progressive technologies, including a sport-tuned suspension with Active Roll Stabilization, 18-inch run-flat tires, adaptive brakelights, Park Distance Control and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. Inside its lush cabin, the 650i provides seating for four, with high-quality leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control and aluminum trim. A voice-activated navigation system and Bluetooth wireless connectivity are also standard. Standard safety features include anti-lock brakes, electronic stability and traction control, active anti-whiplash front head restraints and up to eight airbags, while more advanced technologies such as a lane-departure warning system and night vision are optional.
The BMW 650i carries over with minimal changes for 2010. Both the coupe and convertible are now outfitted with digital HD Radio, while the next-generation iDrive system includes a new internal hard drive-based navigation unit.

2010 Toyota Highlander

2010 Toyota Highlander

The 2010 Toyota Highlander Hybrid ranks 14 out of 31 Affordable Midsize SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 63 published reviews and test drives of the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The Highlander Hybrid offers a spacious interior, smooth ride, and refined hybrid powertrain. However, even with excellent fuel economy, many reviewers say its steep price as compared to the conventional Highlander isn't justified in fuel savings.



The Highlander Hybrid is an excellent family vehicle because of its great fuel economy and spacious third-row seat -- but that utility comes with a steep price. With a base price of nearly $35,000, the Highlander Hybrid is the most expensive non-luxury hybrid vehicle on the market. Further detracting from its value is the fact that the conventional Highlander costs nearly $9,000 less.

The hybrid's 27/25 mpg fuel economy leads the affordable midsize SUV class and is definitely an improvement over the conventional Highlander's 18/24 mpg rating. However, it would still take many years (probably even more than most people would keep the car) to make up for the cost of that $9,000 premium in gas savings -- prompting many reviewers to say the Highlander Hybrid isn't worth it unless you're a die-hard environmentalist. Several other hybrid SUVs offer even better fuel economy at lower prices.

2010 Mercedes-Benz CLK-Class

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

With components from both C-Class and E-Class (to save costs), the 2009 CLK will compete with Audi A5, BMW 3-series, and Lexus SC.

The “nice guy” attitude of the current Mercedes-Benz mid-size coupe will be completely dropped, as the next-gen CLK will want to play with the “bad boys”. In order to do that it will feature an all-new design line, with angular strokes and aggressive accents. The four front lights layout will be kept, but this time they will no longer be round. In addition to that, the fog lights will use LEDs as most of the new vehicles will.

The rest of the body will borrow the aggressive wheel arches and body creases from the C-Class, but will have them refined in an elegant manner, proper for a coupe.

The aggressive esthetics will be backed by an all revised engine range. An important novelty will be the entry level 2.2 liters diesel that will offer a highly advanced depollution system and will provide a respectable power output of up to 204 bhp. As for the gasoline engines, they will feature direct fuel injection to improve efficaciousness. All engines will be available with the optional 4Matic, all wheel drive system. Hybrid versions are also expected to be developed later.

The 2009 CLK line-up is expected to be: CLK350 powered by a 272 hp V6, CLK500 powered by a V8 engine with an output of 388 hp. Later on, there will also be a CLK63 AMG powered by a 6.2 liter V8 engien with an output of 503 hp. A hybrid version may also be available.

The new CLK will be available on showrooms starting the summer 2009, and will feature technologies like: Presafe II, night vision, Command II, and the Distronic Plus adaptive cruise control system.

Porsche

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Delivering even more engine power, lower weight and shorter transmission ratios, as well as upgraded body and suspension components than all previous GT3s, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the race version of the 911 GT3 and will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009.

The heart of the new, uncompromising GT3 RS is the power unit. Like the engine featured in the 911 GT3, the naturally-aspirated RS power unit now displaces 3.8 liters and delivers even more power, while revving up even faster to its 8500 rpm redline. It now delivers 450 horsepower, 15 more horsepower than its 911 GT3 counterpart. Even with a specific output of more than 118 hp per liter from the six-cylinder boxer engine, the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains fully suitable for everyday use.

The new 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox optimized for short gearshift travel, low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speed, the transmission comes with shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3, deliberately conceding an even higher potential top track speed.

Dynamic engine mounts are standard and serve to improve the car's handling to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect, improving the connection between the engine and the body when driving under very lively conditions, yet allow for more comfortable conditions during everyday street use.

Porsche is also introducing another new option in 2010 for the GT3 RS, a lithium-ion battery. Delivered with the car and, when replacing the conventional lead-acid battery, it reduces the weight by more than 10 kg or 22 lb and is mainly intended for the track.

To further improve its sporting behavior, the new 911 GT3 RS comes with a purpose-built and specially set up PASM suspension, a wider front and rear track and corresponding bodywork.

The front axle comes with nine-inch-wide wheels running on 245/35 ZR 19 sports tires while the rear axle features twelve-inch-wide wheels incorporating 325/30 ZR 19 sports tires.

The new 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motorsport through its dynamic looks, in particular by its low ride height, the new, extra large carbon-fiber rear wing and titanium exhaust system.

The 2010 911 GT3 RS goes on sale in the U.S. in early spring of 2010 and will be priced at $132,800.

2010 Porsche 911 GT3 RS

Delivering even more engine power, lower weight and shorter transmission ratios, as well as upgraded body and suspension components than all previous GT3s, the new Porsche 911 GT3 RS sets the foundation for homologating the race version of the 911 GT3 and will be introduced at the Frankfurt Motor Show September 17-27, 2009.

The heart of the new, uncompromising GT3 RS is the power unit. Like the engine featured in the 911 GT3, the naturally-aspirated RS power unit now displaces 3.8 liters and delivers even more power, while revving up even faster to its 8500 rpm redline. It now delivers 450 horsepower, 15 more horsepower than its 911 GT3 counterpart. Even with a specific output of more than 118 hp per liter from the six-cylinder boxer engine, the power unit in the new GT3 RS remains fully suitable for everyday use.

The new 911 GT3 RS comes exclusively with a six-speed manual gearbox optimized for short gearshift travel, low weight and high efficiency. To enhance the level of performance throughout the entire range of engine and road speed, the transmission comes with shorter ratios than found in the 911 GT3, deliberately conceding an even higher potential top track speed.

Dynamic engine mounts are standard and serve to improve the car's handling to an even higher level. Depending on driving conditions, the mounts change in their stiffness and damping effect, improving the connection between the engine and the body when driving under very lively conditions, yet allow for more comfortable conditions during everyday street use.

Porsche is also introducing another new option in 2010 for the GT3 RS, a lithium-ion battery. Delivered with the car and, when replacing the conventional lead-acid battery, it reduces the weight by more than 10 kg or 22 lb and is mainly intended for the track.

To further improve its sporting behavior, the new 911 GT3 RS comes with a purpose-built and specially set up PASM suspension, a wider front and rear track and corresponding bodywork.

The front axle comes with nine-inch-wide wheels running on 245/35 ZR 19 sports tires while the rear axle features twelve-inch-wide wheels incorporating 325/30 ZR 19 sports tires.

The new 911 GT3 RS shows its close connection to motorsport through its dynamic looks, in particular by its low ride height, the new, extra large carbon-fiber rear wing and titanium exhaust system.

The 2010 911 GT3 RS goes on sale in the U.S. in early spring of 2010 and will be priced at $132,800.

2010 mercedes benz GL class

The Carlsson crew is constantly striving to develop new tuning packages for every single model in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. This time the German tuning house has launched a comprehensive package comprising of styling and mechanical upgrades for the GL-Class range. Starting off with the design kit, Carlsson has developed a full body kit that consists of a kitschy chrome grille (we could certainly do without that), bonnet add-ons, a front apron with integrated LED daytime running lights, side skirts and a new rear skirt attachment that houses the two oval stainless steel tailpipes.

The aerodynamic kit is priced at a hefty €8,499 (excl. VAT) while an extra €4,189 (again without VAT) will get you a set of 22-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 295/35 R22 high-performance Dunlop tyres.

To match the SUVs looks, Carlsson has developed performance enhancements for both petrol and diesel variants of the GL-Class. More specifically, the CK50 kit (€3,192 excl. VAT) for the GL 500 nudges the V8 petrol's output from 388HP to 435HP and torque from 530 to 600 Nm.

Carlsson also increases the performance of the diesel models, with the GL 420 CDI producing 354 HP instead of 306HP (€1,299 excl. VAT) and the CL 320 CDI 269 HP, up from 224 HP (€1,499 excl. VAT).

To top things off, the tuner has developed the C-Tronic SUSPENSION system that lowers the SUV's ride height by up to 30 mm while the control unit also recognizes the road characteristics and continually adjusts the remaining spring travel. The system that is for the GL-Class models with AIRMATIC-suspension costs €1,099 without VAT.

2010 Ford Taurus

Together with the release of the 40th Anniversary Edition of the 370Z for North America, Nissan today announced the Japanese market launch of the 2010 model year Fairlady Z lineup that includes the introduction of the new Roadster model and minor upgrades for the coupe version of the JDM 370Z that also gains a "40th Anniversary" model to mark the first four decades of the sports car.

Beginning with the coupe, the 2010 model year brings a number of small enhancements that include the adoption of an HDD CARWINGS navigation system with a built-in digital TV receiver, an advanced map update system and iPod connection. Furthermore, an Intelligent Key with a Z metal emblem is offered, along with new body color variations, including a new Premium Deep Maroon color.

One year after the launch of the newest generation Fairlady Z, Nissan has added a canvas-top Roadster model to the sport car's Japanese line-up. The Fairlady Z Roadster features the same 3.7-liter V6 engine as the coupe model.

Also, in celebration of the 40th anniversary of the birth of the original Fairlady Z in October 1969, Nissan has released a limited edition version of the coupe that entails the same styling traits as the commemorative 370Z that will go on sale in the States in Spring 2010.

Available at Nissan's Japanese dealers for one year after the release date, the Fairlady Z 40th Anniversary is based on the JDM Version ST and is offered with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a 7-speed automatic transmission.

Highlights include a unique metal grey paint job, red leather seats and door panels, contrasting red stitching on the steering wheel, console and other parts of the interior, new alloy wheels, and an array of 40th anniversary emblems inside and out.

Prices for the Fairlady Z Roadster in Japan range from 4,357,500 yen to 5,092,500 yen, for the 2010 Fairlady Z Coupe from 3,643,500 yen to 4,588,500 yen and for the 40th Anniversary model, from 4,483,500 yen to 4,588,500 yen.

BMW 3 Series

BMW has unveiled photos and details pertaining to the facelifted, Euro-spec 2009 3 Series sedan and wagon. We touched on the visual updates yesterday, but to recap, the car sports a revised front fascia, a new hood, restyled mirrors, and reshaped taillamps. The changes are subtle, but good. Inside, the new iDrive trickles down to the 3, which also gets BMW ConnectedDrive in-car internet, as well as an 80-gig hard drive. The 3 Series sedans and wagons are available with 6-speed manual or automatic transmissions. The 7-speed DCT doesn't make it into the four- and five-doors at this time, but it becomes available on the 335i coupe and convertible. Read on after the jump as we run down the model variants and engine offerings.

The 3 Series sedan and wagon model rundown is as follows

* 318i / 318d
* 320i / 320d
* 325i / 325d
* 330i / 330d
* 335i / 335d


Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive versions adopt the new xDrive nomenclature (the xi suffix is history)

* 320d xDrive
* 330d xDrive
* 325i xDrive
* 330i xDrive
* 335i xDrive

BMW's naming scheme no longer has anything to do with engine size. The 318 and 320 cars have 2.0L four-cylinders, while the 325, 330, and 335 cars have 3.0L inline-sixes. This applies for both gasoline and diesel-powered cars. If we had to guess, we'd look to see only the 330i and 335i come stateside, with the 325 staying home along with the four-bangers.