2009 Nissan 370Z front view

The all-new Nissan Z features a 3.7 liter engine and a shorter body than the outgoing 350Z, with a shape that recalls the classic Z cars of the 1970s and 80s.

2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart

Mitsubishi has always been right on the heels Subaru's Impreza WRX STI with its own Lancer Evolution, but the Subaru Impreza WRX has always been pretty much unchallenged. Well, that's about to change. The new Lancer Ralliart gets a 235ish-horsepower version of Mitsubishi's 2.0 liter engine, along with all-wheel-drive. As for the old Lancer Ralliart's formula, no, it's not dead -- the "big-block" Lancer lives on in the upcoming 2009 Lancer GTS 2.4.

2009 Mitsubishi Galant

Though it's a decent car all around, success has eluded Mitsubishi's big Galant sedan. 2009 sees a thorough restyling with the hopes of boosting sales.

2009 Mitsubishi Eclipse GT

The Eclipse gets revised front and rear styling, three new colors, and upgraded seat cloth. The GT model (shown here) gets a more thorough treatment, with two-tone bumper fascias, a bigger rear wing, high-intensity discharge headlights, standard electronic stability control, and a new (and louder) dual exhaust system that bumps engine output from 263 to 265 horsepower.

2009 Mercury Milan VOGA Edition

For 2009, the Milan offers a new VOGA package (Mercury says VOGA is Spanish for "fashionable and trend setting"; no word on whether native Spanish-speakers always spell it with capital letters), which includes white or black paint with chrome wheels and trim, cashmere-colored leather seats and door inserts, "Carbon Cyber Grey" interior trim, and VOGA badging on seats, body, wheels and floor mats.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK55 AMG

The SLK55 AMG is the hot-rod version of Mercedes' two-seat retractable-hardtop SLK roadster, which received a thorough going-over -- including updated styling and an improved interior -- for 2009. The SLK55 AMG gets a 355 horsepower 5.4 liter V8 (link goes to photo), 7-speed automatic, upgraded suspension, steering and brakes, and a premium leather-lined interior. The SLK55 AMG looks good and goes fast, but is it worth buying? Read on.

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL65 AMG Black Series

The limited-production SL65 Black Series is a lightweight version of the SL65 AMG with a more powerful (670 hp) version of the SL65's twin-turbo V12 engin

2009 Mercedes-Benz SL63 AMG

Mercedes' big two-seat retractable-hardtop roadster gets updated styling, glass roof, parking assist system, and Airscarf, which blows warm air on the back of the passenger's neck. The V12-powered SL65 AMG is joined by the SL63 AMG, shown here, which is powered by a 518 hp version of AMG's 6.2 liter V8 backed by the new Multi Clutch Transmission (Mercedes' usual 7-speed automatic with an electronically-controlled clutch in place of the usual torque converter).

2009 Mazda RX-8

The RX-8 gets its first major update since its 2003 introduction. 2009 will see revised styling and a new R3 version with a stiffer suspension, extra body bits and additional interior ameneties.

2009 Mazda6

A new Mazda6 has been launched for 2009. Unlike the previous Six -- which was shared with Europe -- the new Mazda6 is unique to the North American market, and comes exclusively as a sedan. The new car is significantly larger than the old Six; engine choices are a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder and a 3.7 liter V6. New features include available keyless ignition and standard electronic stability control system.

2009 Lincoln MKS

The all-new 2009 MKS is slated to take over as Lincoln's flagship sedan. The MKS will initially be offered with a 270 hp 3.7 liter V6 and choice of front- or all-wheel-drive; a twin-turbo direct injection V6 is scheduled to join the options list about a year after the MKS' introduction. Lincoln will use the MKS to introduce several new (or, at the very least, new to Lincoln) technologies, including a capless fuel filler, keyless ignition, adaptive cruise control, and the much-vaunted SYNC system.

mazda

Sunday, November 23, 2008

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is available with two body types: four-and five-door. The range of engines consists of two petrol (105 hp and 150 hp) and two diesel (109 and 143 hp) engines. There is also a version called MPS, with a gasoline engine turbo of 260 hp.

2007 Mazda 3


Mazda 3

Versions with the gasoline engine of 150 and 260 hp and 143 hp diesel with a stick shift six-speed manual. The less powerful versions have a five-speed manual box. The Mazda 3 is available in three equipment levels: Active, Active + and Sportive. Not all versions of equipment are available in combination with all engines.


Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 CRTD 109 hp version 1.6 is available from € 19,190. Of similar models, is priced between the cheaper, such as the Citroen C4, and that cost more, the Audi A3 Sportback or Volkswagen Golf.


Mazda 3

The Diesel 143 hp engine which is the last Mazda has added to this model, and is on sale from € 21,760. Of the five-door car that has a diesel engine of similar power, are only cheaper than the Mazda 3 a Citroen C4, a Peugeot 307 or a Dodge Caliber.


Mazda 3

The version Mazda 3 with five-door body is under the boot of four (346 compared to 413 l l), but the five-door version is more functional because access to the trunk is more convenient (for the four-door has a mouth load small). In either version, the data of the boot is not large given the length of the bodywork (4.41 m and 4.49 the five gates of the four doors).

Mazda 3

Among the bodywork version with four doors and five, the only thing that changes on the inside is that, due to the shape of the roof, the four-door has less headroom for the passengers in the rear seats (about three or four centimeters). Therefore, it is less suitable for carrying people high.

Mazda 3

Whether in the version that is, there is room enough for four occupants of normal height, which can go for a comfortable, soft and subject of the seats. For a third occupant of the places the rear seat is narrow, with inadequate support and a headrest that is poorly positioned to adults.
Plastics that are in the interior, as well as buttons and the Roulettes, are hard to touch. In general, the interior and set conveys impression of solidity and seems well done.

Mazda 3

Apart from the motor that could lead each version of the Mazda 3, the general tone is that it is a pleasant car to drive and stable by their reactions. It is not, however, a particularly quiet and comfortable car of suspension. The noise that comes inside is not low in some circumstances because of the engine, and in others because of the rolling noise.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 four-door is worse than the advantage of five: a somewhat greater length, has the same space in the longitudinal and less headroom in the rear seats (because of a fall that has a roof).

Mazda 3

If you are valued much the extent there are other more spacious car with a similar length and four-door body, such as the Megane Sedan (which has much more legroom and a little more height to the roof in the rear seats). To a lesser extent, a Focus 4p is also greater. There is also the most expensive and not more spacious, like a Volvo S40.

Mazda 3

In both versions, the boot is not higher because beneath the carpeting of the fund is a thick plastic structure with practical ways to place various objects (such as triangles of emergency, the reflector vest and many other things). Below it there is a spare wheel with a steel rim of a curious light brown.

Mazda 3

Five people can not travel comfortably in any car of this size (mainly width). In the Mazda 3 either, because it has details that make it advisable not to use the rear seat central: the sidewalk and backing conform to the body very badly, the headrest is narrow and in-your-highest position is at the height of the neck in an adult.

Mazda 3

The back of the front seats has some ways that fit very well with the contour of the back and gives good support in curves. A few drivers have the sidewalk may seem a bit short.

Mazda 3

The instrumentation is very much oriented in driving much of the tachometer and speedometer is hidden from view for couples. At the controls of the radio, the Mazda 3 has a set of lights arranged horizontally, which are lit in various ways to make contact, to change the volume of the radio.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 has a good feel of direction is nimble and precise. It has a suspension lasts something that does not allow large movements of the body with strong lateral support bumpy ground. Despite that well absorbed irregularities of the floor without transmitting the occupant’s sudden movements. In fact, for comfort is preferable to a BMW 1 Series and the versions of the SEAT Leon that have optional sport suspension. A Renault Megane or Peugeot 307 cars are more comfortable, but they have some body movements slower and more cumbersome.

Mazda 3

The address, with 2.9 laps between stops, is fast enough, the turning diameter is not large. The gear lever is a touch hard and pulling a few routes rather short. Both the address as the gear lever is a little hard drive.

Mazda 3

Depending on the version, the wheels can be 205/55 R16 or 205/50 R17. The braking distances are too short for a car of this type, its resistance to heat is good and the brake pedal has a good touch.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 109 hp diesel version is notable for its force in any circumstances and for its consumption. This version gives the Mazda 3 acceleration in line with its power and weight. On some occasions, such as the highway speed to recover if a truck has slowed, it seems more powerful it really is. The worst thing about this version is the noise that comes inside a low speed and accelerating, which is heard clearly the typical sound to Diesel. Roadside also perceived the sound of the engine, but mixed with the tread. The engine itself is not particularly noisy, so the problem must be the lack insulating the passenger compartment.

Mazda 3

The consumption of the Mazda 3 diesel engine with 109 hp is low in all circumstances, allowing you to have a high autonomy despite the fact that the fuel tank is not great (he is 55). In one-way road, to an average of 130 km / h, spent 5.7 l/100 km (virtually no other car of this type that spend less); tours in mixed city and surrounding area consumes about 7 l / 100 km, a good value.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 Diesel 143 hp (the same engine that has the Mazda 5 and 6) is quieter than the 109 hp, because Beijing is a jolting less obvious. Those who choose this version because they expect to be faster than the 109 hp will not be disappointed.

Mazda 3

The version Mazda 3 with a gasoline engine of 105 hp has a good response to the accelerator and can give big acceleration capabilities for power, if it takes a high speed. However, it is not the most suitable for travel to a high rate, because in such circumstances consumption may be somewhat higher (it has a remarkable difference in cost per mile with respect to diesel 109 hp), you could use a sixth march breathing.

Mazda 3

The engine of 2.0 liters of gasoline and 150 hp, comparatively, has an answer that seems less intense when you turn to a regime medium or low, but it can also give a big acceleration if carried close to its limit.

Mazda 3

Although Mazda has taken steps to reduce surface noise in the new Mazda 3 range, noise emitted by the engine and aerodynamic noise is still visible under certain conditions.

Mazda 3

The chassis of the Mazda 3 has elements in common: the Ford C-Max, Ford Focus and Volvo S40, the suspensions are equal in all cases (not the final adjustments of each). The front suspension is a McPherson with a triangle below. The rear is the deformable parallelogram that Ford began to use in the first Mondeo family. It is a suspension with three arms and one longitudinal flexible.

Mazda 3

The two petrol engines belonging to the family that Mazda calls "MZR". Diesel engine from 109 hp 1.6 liter engine capacity has resulted from the agreement between PSA and the Ford group. The diesel engine of 143 HP is Mazda (not the others who have PSA and Ford cars, such as the Focus), nor is the 2.0-liter has the Ford Mondeo. Mazda has become an engine of four valves per cylinder, but only with a camshaft (not two as the engine of Ford). The actions of the engine itself match (86 x 86 mm). It has variable-geometry turbocharger. The maximum power only extends to the 3,500 rpm and compression ratio is also low, 16.7 to 1.

Mazda 3

The first versions of the Mazda 3 are 2003; in 2006 Mazda made small changes to the bodywork, engine and transmission, detailed below: The new model with the 2.0 liter gasoline engine and 150 HP now has electronic throttle (instead of a drive by wire), a distribution system continuously variable in admission (called by Mazda S-VT, and has 1.6 liters of gasoline) and a stick shift six-speed (previously five). The sixth is a development that the fifth longest in the previous model, which gives more breathing at the time of filming a high-speed sustained and permitted the consumption decrease of 8.2 to 7.9 l/100km.

Mazda 3

Still giving 150 hp power, but at 6,500 rpm (6,000 in the previous version). It maintains 187 Nm of torque, which is now at 4,000 rpm instead of 4,500 rpm. Has a new alternator to reduce the sound when the engine turns at a high speed.

Mazda 3

The sixth running of the 150 hp engine power is clearly longer than one fifth of the model it replaces (with 205/50 R17 tires, development moves from 33.4 to 37 km / h 1,000 rpm). The rest of the versions are still using a gearbox five speeds.

Mazda 3

Changes in engines, transmission and aerodynamics have reduced consumption between 0.2 and 0.3 l/100 km in this version of the Mazda 3 with engines of 2.0 liters and 150 hp. The 1.6 liter of gasoline now has an average consumption of 6.9 l/100 km and 7.9 l/100 km spends 2.0 150 hp, 4.8 l/100 km of the Diesel 109 hp and 6 , 0 to 143 hp.

Mazda 3

With respect to the previous model, the range has more insulation on the inside of the bonnet, the lid of the trunk of the body and four-door in the roof; tires have a more rigid structure have been reviewed and tires.

Mazda 3

Mazda has also revised the suspension in order to reduce surface noise, improve the feel of the address and, in certain circumstances, to increase stability. There are new shock absorbers for the two axes, the body has new reinforcements, the front suspension is new carriers and Mangueta go in the direction of a new position.

Mazda 3

At the bottom there is a plastic cover and new deflectors on the wheels, for the aerodynamics. According to Mazda, these changes will encourage consumption, acceleration at high speed and stability linear. The new version with five-door body has a Cx of 0.30. The Cx of the body "SportSedan" remains 0.29. This data is Cx with 15-inch tires.

Mazda 3

The 143 hp diesel version has features only present in the MPS, such as specific reinforcements for bodywork; also share certain elements of the gearbox.

Mazda 3

In the area of the knees of the driver has been added softer material to reduce possible damage in the event of a collision. The command that regulates the position of the steering wheel has a soft plastic coating.

Mazda 3

Mazda 3

Versions with the gasoline engine of 150 and 260 hp and 143 hp diesel with a stick shift six-speed manual. The less powerful versions have a five-speed manual box. The Mazda 3 is available in three equipment levels: Active, Active + and Sportive. Not all versions of equipment are available in combination with all engines.

Mazda 3

The Mazda 3 is available with two body types: four-and five-door. The range of engines consists of two petrol (105 hp and 150 hp) and two diesel (109 and 143 hp) engines. There is also a version called MPS, with a gasoline engine turbo of 260 hp.

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak
The version of the Ford Mondeo Sportbreak diesel engine with 140 hp and equipment "Trend" (which will be the best selling variant) costs € 26,815. There are cars of that size less costly, as the Fiat Croma 1.9 Multijet 16v 150 bhp, the Citroen C5 Break 2.0 HDI FAP 138 SW or an Opel Vectra 1.9 CDTI 16V 150 hp. A Peugeot 407 SW has a price similar to the Ford Mondeo Sportbreak, while a Volkswagen Passat Variant or a Honda Accord Tourer are more expensive.

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak
Diesels are a 1.8 liter 125 hp and two variants of a 2.0 liter, 130 and 140 hp. The Diesel 130 hp necessarily coupled with an automatic six-gear. Gasoline is a 145 hp 2.0 liter and 2.5 liter turbo of 220 hp.

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak

The Ford Mondeo Sportbreak is available with coachwork four-and five-door. The range consists of three diesel engines and two petrol engines.

Ford Mondeo

Ford Mondeo

Thus, the versions' Titanium S "has a tougher suspension, which lowers the height of the body from the ground between 10 and 15 mm (depending on engine), in relation to the other versions.

Ford Mondeo

Versions' Titanium S 'is also distinguished by lower skirts and rear spoiler. The trapezoidal grille in the front skirt has a frame, silver or anthracite, depending on the color of the body. Moreover, both have a unique honeycomb. A similar framework ago contours for fog lamps. In the Rearbumper, there is an integrated air diffuser. The tires are 18 ".

Ford Mondeo

Until they reach the new engines and versions, with a body of four or five doors, the price ranges from 21,715 € ("Environment" 1.6, 123 hp) up to € 32,560 (Titanium X 2.5, 220 hp). As a launch promotion, Ford is giving away a package of options valued at 750 € (which includes elements other than depending on the level of equipment) and two years warranty (four in total) or 80,000 km 'FordProtect. "

Ford Mondeo

With the new 2.2 Diesel engine, the engine of the Ford Mondeo range is composed of four diesel and three gasoline. Diesels are 125, 130, 140 and 175 hp, with gasoline are 123, 145 hp and 220 hp. Diesels 130 hp and 175 will necessarily associate with a stick shift six-speed manual.

Ford Mondeo

Considering its price, the Ford Mondeo is one of the best saloons that are for sale. It is particularly recommended because it exceeds the average in areas such as the interior space and is among the best for comfort (not so much because of suspension, but by the little noise that comes inside) and, with some exceptions, for quality. It is also very stable, although its advantage over others is no longer as great as in the previous Ford Mondeo.

Ford Mondeo

Because of its size, you need plenty of room to maneuver (a Volkswagen Passat or a MAZDA6 are smaller and more manoeuvrable), and sometimes that can be a drawback. No maneuvering in a small space, in part, because all the bodywork of the Ford Mondeo (4p, 5p and Wagon) are very bulky. Among the bodies of 4 and 5p, the most interesting is the five-door, for several reasons: it is slightly shorter, is almost the same volume of luggage that the four-door and is more functional because the trunk is loaded with ease (thanks to the gate).

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo diesel engine with 140 hp responds well and because it has a good relationship between performance and consumption. This version 'Trend' diesel engine with 140 hp it costs € 24,715, there are cars that cost the same and which are not as extensive as the Ford Mondeo (such as the Peugeot 407, the Volkswagen Passat or the MAZDA6). However, the Ford Mondeo is not the best possible relationship between price and size inside, for example, a Skoda Superb or a Citroen C5 are also very spacious and are priced somewhat lower.

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo 2.5i engine with 220 hp is only sold with the level of equipment "Titanium X". This version has a higher price than the others, partly because their equipment as standard. Even so, there is no other sedan that is so rapidly and cheaply with similar equipment. For example, the Peugeot 407 and Citroen C5 with a V6 engine (211 hp and 207 respectively) are cheaper, but benefits are clearly worse than the Ford Mondeo 2.5T. The more interesting alternative to the Ford Mondeo 2.5i 220 hp Passat is the 2.0 TFSI 200 hp (because it has an engine that gives a somewhat better relationship between performance and consumption).

Ford Mondeo

The biggest difference between the Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi 140 hp and 220 hp 2.5 T is in the engine. That is, Ford has not done with the 2.5 version sporting a T, with a suspension harder or with different reactions. In addition, the equipment can be identical in both versions.
The equipment of the Ford Mondeo can be very rich. Series of seven airbags (two front, two front side, two curtain-type head and one of its knees for the driver) and stability control, among other elements.

Ford Mondeo

Some of the items of equipment are very interesting locks and automatic dual-xenon headlights (which birth very well and can be combined with a system of adaptive lighting), the control system, tire pressure or the 'Bluetooth' with voice control for certain functions. The best seats bring the versions' Titanium 'and' Titanium X ', moreover, these versions come with a color screen behind the steering wheel, with more features than the monochrome screen.

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo can have two types of optional suspension, a tougher (sports) and another adjustment variable. The suspension adjustment variable operating satisfactorily, and can provide more comfort and stability in light of the circumstances. In any case, does not seem very necessary because the suspension of the Ford Mondeo range has a very good compromise between stability and comfort.

Ford Mondeo

There are two navigation systems, one with the maps on CD with monochrome screen, the other on DVD with a color screen. The Ford Mondeo has a socket for an external sound source of 3.5 mm, but no USB connection. Some items of equipment seem dispensable, and the programmer velocity asset.

Ford Mondeo

Later there will be a gasoline engine with the Ford Mondeo 2.3 liter four cylinder. From time Ford has no plans to mount six-cylinder engine (also not necessary, taking into account the benefits of version 2.5 liter 220 hp).

Ford Mondeo

Overall, the Ford Mondeo is a car more spacious inside, that most of the cars of a similar price as a Volkswagen Passat or a MAZDA6. In some cases the difference is very large, for example, compared with a Peugeot 407 or a Saab 9-3.

Ford Mondeo

Taking into account the space in the rear seats, only two are partially outweigh the Ford Mondeo, but none is generally more spacious, the Skoda Superb has more space longitudinal (for legs) and the Citroen C5 more breadth to the shoulders of occupants and slightly more than headroom to the roof in the rear seats.

Ford Mondeo

In fact, the only fault is that the habitability Ford Mondeo is that the height in the rear seats is not great for a car with a body of 1.50 meters. Both in the bodywork of four or five gates, if a person of average size sits upright (with the hip or pasted on the back) is likely to touch with its head on the ceiling. This problem is solved in the Family bodywork, which has about 6 cm in height over the rear seats.

Ford Mondeo

Although it is a spacious car, the new Ford Mondeo is not substantially larger than the previous Ford Mondeo (which was very well taken advantage of a car). Regarding the former, the main gain of the new measure is the width at shoulder height. This is seen especially in the front seats, because the doors are far from the body of the occupants. As the front seats can go a long way from the dashboard, inside the Ford Mondeo people will feel comfortable size too big.

Ford Mondeo

The differences between the different versions decorative 'Titanium' and 'Ghia' are the first to have interior coatings with metallic finish and the second timber. The sheets of metal aspect of plastic versions that are 'Titanium' are well settled, they look good, have a matte finish (not fall marked the footprints of the fingers) and do not produce annoying reflections. The controls that exist in handle the steering wheel for the radio and other functions they are metal and have a very nice touch.

Ford Mondeo

The interesting version of ‘Titanium’ is that they have unique items of equipment: a better front seats and a color display in the instrumentation (just behind the steering wheel).

Ford Mondeo

The seats of the 'Titanium' and 'Titanium X "(Ford called' ergonomic seat ') better grip the body that seats from the rest of the versions and are comfortable. They can be upholstered with Alcantara and leather or cloth ("Titanium"). All versions of the Ford Mondeo may have heated seats (standard on 'Ghia X' and 'Titanium X'), but in no case can be ventilated.

Ford Mondeo

Some drivers have been thrown into the seats might need to move closer to the ground and that support for the left foot was larger and flat. The steering wheel is leather upholstery with (the ring is rather small) and all versions can be located because the settings in height and depth are extensive. Unlike usual, the boot and features keyless access options are separate.

Ford Mondeo

Access without keys is optional in all versions (except in the 'Environment', which you can not have); boot without keys comes in versions' Ghia X 'and' Titanium X '(optional on the rest, except on "Environment") and is associated with a button to start the Ford Mondeo. We see it as something that was very comfortable and takes more than other items of equipment, worth paying for both.

Ford Mondeo

The color screen behind the instrumentation ("Panel of Advanced Instrumentation Ford Convers + ') is the type TFT and 7." Versions that are not "Titanium", have a monochrome screen, smaller one. Apart from the difference looking at the color there are more features, among others, the color screen can be accessed via the telephone "Bluetooth" from the controls of the steering wheel.

Ford Mondeo

The appearance of the instrumentation varies depending on whether the screen is either: it seems to us that the tachometer and speedometer of the instrumentation with normal versions are easier to read than the same tools that come with a color screen.

Ford Mondeo

The front air outlets of the dashboard can give a very large flow of air (and are easy to steer). To the rear seats are vents in the amount of central body.

Ford Mondeo

There are optional tinted windows and Wipe for the occupants of the rear seats. All Mondeo have dual zone air conditioning as standard, except in the equipment "Environment", which is optional.

Ford Mondeo

The dashboard has a design with some similarities to that of some new models from Ford, such as the S-Max and Galaxy. There are also clear similarities in the type of material that cover the interior, which generally yield good feeling to the touch and sight.

Ford Mondeo

An interesting element is that, as in some models of Renault, no screw cap to the fuel tank. In the Ford Mondeo, this element is combined with a system that prevents the fuel tank wrong.

Ford Mondeo

The boot of the four-door version measured volume of 535 liters and five-door 528 l. Therefore, both versions have one of the largest luggages between the cars of this type. It should be borne in mind that these data are trunk with puncture repair kit. The Ford Mondeo may have, without charge, spare tire and emergency-50 € - a spare tire in a normal-sized rim of plate. If it takes spare tire (either emergency or original size) loses the trunk about 10 cm deep.

Ford Mondeo

The boot there are two hooks for hanging bags and rings for attaching nets. The rear support is divided into two parts with proportions 60/40. If it strikes the backups in, any of the body can be a completely flat load surface with the trunk.

Ford Mondeo

The dynamic qualities of the Ford Mondeo are very good, especially those having to do with its stability and comfort in a broad sense. Taking into account both variables, the Ford Mondeo is one of the best saloons that are for sale.

Ford Mondeo

At least with this configuration of wheels and engine, the Ford Mondeo is not as comfortable as a Citroen C5, because certain irregularities that move the wheel with abruptness not arrive very attenuated inside. It is likely that some wheels with higher profile of the Ford Mondeo is even more comfortable at the expense of losing some grip. The imperfections in the asphalt behind the wheel more slowly do reach well inland and mitigated with a movement of body quality (soft and controlled).

Ford Mondeo

For the Ford Mondeo with a body of four or five-door there are two types of optional suspension. One is hard and can be mounted on all versions (for only 100 €). The other is a variable damping system ("CCD" which has three manual settings hardness of the pads, plus an adjustment variable depending on the conditions). The suspension of the series is perhaps more advisable; with it, the Ford Mondeo is going very well.

Ford Mondeo

The biggest advantage of the optional suspension adjustment variable is that, as in "Comfort" irregularities feel very little on the inside, and that can be interesting for those who travel a lot to be fast and bumpy roads.

Ford Mondeo

In assessing the suspension adjustment variable, we must also bear in mind that comes along with the assistant starter in slope, "HLA", which is a very interesting and you can not otherwise acquire.

Ford Mondeo

Although a car is very stable, the advantage of flexibility in relation to its size that had the previous model is no longer a feature in the new. When driving seems as big as it is; roads is slow or sudden changes of direction are not unfolding as other saloons very stable smaller, like a Mazda 6.

Ford Mondeo

It retains the previous model feels very good direction, which makes the Ford Mondeo responds very well to indications of the steering wheel on the curve, and the driver kept well informed of what is happening at every moment.

Ford Mondeo

At least the wheels of 18 ",it has a high lateral grip and very little tendency to lose track record in sudden maneuvers. The brakes are powerful enough to stop the Ford Mondeo normal distance and resist well enough rigorous use.

Ford Mondeo

Perhaps the least interesting of the Ford Mondeo is that their size can be a disadvantage when it comes to maneuver, in addition to the bodywork of the Ford Mondeo is very long, especially in the four-door, you need plenty of room to rotate: the diameter of rotation is 11, 45 m between curbs (ie, not counting the overhangs). Still, it's more maneuverable than a Citroen C5 (whose diameter is drawing 11.8 m).

Ford Mondeo

With the engine from 140 hp 2.0 TDCi, the Ford Mondeo has a satisfactory response both in town (from standing out well) and on the road. It's a very quiet car under any circumstances, especially when the Ford Mondeo wheel and a certain speed.

Ford Mondeo

The consumption of this version is low in this aspect, it does not note its larger size compared with other saloons Diesel. In one more road trip with city consumption is about 7.5 l/100 km. You can travel at highway speeds with a legal consumption slightly more than 6.0 l/100 km.

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo 2.5i engine with 220 hp is a very pleasant to drive on the power of the engine and its sound. It gives some good benefits for their power (a capacity of acceleration similar to that of a BMW 535 Xi 258 hp) and responds to the accelerator with the strength that only have turbocharged engines. This engine is basically the same as that which has the Focus ST, the Ford Mondeo is 220 hp at 5,000 and the Focus 225 hp at 6100 rpm.

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo with this engine does not have an extraordinary performance, but not spend too much. You can travel by highway to an average of 120 km / h (which includes a cruise of 140 km / h) at a cost of 9.3 l/100 km, provided that driving is soft and the air conditioner is turned off.

Ford Mondeo

In most demanding conditions consumption does not rise disproportionately. For example, spent 11.5 l/100 km on a main road and driving from city to a normal rhythm.

Ford Mondeo

In a tour of road racing slow the acceleration capability, spent 23.3 l/100 km, although it is much in absolute terms, is not so much for its power.
With regard to the previous model, the new growing significantly in all dimensions and, unlike the two previous generations of this model, three-dimensional body are different.

Ford Mondeo

The five-door version measuring 4778 mm in length, 1,500 mm tall and 2850 mm wheelbase. The width is not counting the mirrors 1886 m, between mirrors, comes to 2078 mm.

Ford Mondeo

The only five-door tourism larger than the Ford Mondeo is the Renault Vel Satis (4,860 mm). The Ford Mondeo four-door is even higher (4,844 mm), that is, as big as a BMW 5 Series and over the last Ford Scorpio which was for sale.

Ford Mondeo

The new Ford Mondeo is mechanical and structural elements in common with other models of the mark (the S-Max and Galaxy) and the group (the Land Rover Freelander 2 and the Volvo S80).

Ford Mondeo

The Ford Mondeo has a frame made of stamped steel panels. Some welds, like those of the side walls and roof, are made with laser. This procedure is relatively common today.

Ford Mondeo

The suspension is functionally the same as that of the previous Ford Mondeo, with McPherson front and the same kind of parallelogram deformable behind. The rear suspension is basically the same design as that of the first generation Mondeo family, with three points and one longitudinal flexible.

Ford Mondeo

This design is developing in front towing cars, either as an alternative to the torsional axis in smaller models that the Ford Mondeo or as an alternative to other systems parallelogram deformable in larger models.

Ford Mondeo

Diesel engines are direct injection, the gasoline remain indirect injection, for now, Ford has not continued to develop the engine of the previous Ford Mondeo SCI. The petrol engine provides 143 hp 2.0 liter in the new Ford Mondeo, 3 hp less than the previous one.
Ford Mondeo

In the Focus gives 116 hp (at 6,000 rpm), 125 hp (at 6300 rpm) that gives the Ford Mondeo. This engine has variable camshaft for the intake and exhaust. At least in the Focus, this engine gives a good result for both benefits for consumption.

Ford Mondeo

The five-cylinder turbocharged engine comes from Volvo, the same as that used in the Ford Focus ST, but with 220 hp at 5,000 rpm instead of 225 to 6100 rpm.

Ford Mondeo

The 2.0 liter diesel engine is Peugeot Citroen, but with a slightly different power (130 or 140 hp) instead of 136 hp. The 1.8-liter diesel engine it is Ford.

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Ford Mondeo

Ford Focus

Ford Focus ST

Ford Focus Coupe-Cabriolet

Ford Fusion

Ford Fiesta Coupe

Ford Fiesta

Ford Galaxy

Ford S-Max

Ford C-Max

Ford Mondeo Sportbreak

Ford Mondeo

Ford Kuga

The new Ford Mondeo has 2.2 liter engine capacity, 175 HP and is available only with the large body of its range: Mondeo, Galaxy and S-Max. It's the same engine, with different potency, having the Citroen C5 and Peugeot 407 (among others) as it is developed under the agreement signed between Diesel engines PSA Peugeot-Citroen and Ford.

2009 Kia Optima

Kia will attempt to give the Optima a badly-needed dose of appeal for 2009 with spruced-up styling inside and out and improved engines.

2009 Lexus SC430 Pebble Beach Edition

2009 brings the latest in a series of Pebble Beach Editions; this one features Mercury Metallic paint, unique wheels and badging, exclusive two-tone interior trim, and a rear spoiler.

The New Saab 9-3

It’s no secret that I’m no fan of GM’s mismanagement of the Saab brand, but I have to admit they “might” be on the path to turning things around with the latest iteration of the 9-3 Sedan. I was walking through Ballard yesterday (a hipster neighborhood of Seattle, they granted me a one day pass for the day), and passed by Carter Saab and was surprised by the styling of the new 9-3.

The 9-3 comes in a couple of variants most notably a 280 HP, AWD model that appears to be the bona-fide sport sedan many Saab fans have been waiting for. The dealership didn’t have the 280 HP model available so I was only able to test drive a 4-cyclinder 210 HP model, the model came with practically every feature except for Navigation and had a sticker price of around $35k.

In the past I’ve test driven Saab’s before and have been rather disappointed with the whole experience, it’s not that they’re bad cars per se it’s that you can easily purchase something better for a lot less and the cars in its actual price range are usually a lot better. So when I went on the test drive I wasn’t expecting much and was pleasantly surprised when I found myself thoroughly enjoying driving the car. Around on town and on some twisty roads the car handled like an actual sport sedan (for once), and despite being FWD it didn’t have that “heavy nose” feeling like a FWD Audi or the Infinity “G” cars.

Last weekend I was running errands in a 9-3 hatchback (the trunk of my BMW is tiny) and found myself sorely missing my BMW the entire time, if I were in this car last weekend I would’ve just driven it and enjoyed it for what it was: not my BMW but a lot of fun just the same .

Despite the improvements to the driving experience the interior still needs a lot of work before it’s up to the standard of its German competitors, however I’d rate its interior as better than the Infiniti G37 Sedan and Coupe whose interiors scream “Nissan ”.

What is more likely to resonate with American consumers the 2007 Mondeo?

I wouldn’t give-up my BMW for either car, but I would at least like to DRIVE the Mondeo, and the only way I’ll drive a Fusion is if that’s the only rental car available. In the mid-sized sedan segment probably the smartest thing for Ford to do is to scrap the Fusion and just sell the Mondeo, the Fusion is basically a ruination of a perfectly good car that would sell well and win buyers from the Camry, Accord and Passat.

Now I’m aware of Ford’s future plans to make a single model to sell as the Fusion in the U.S. and the Mondeo in Europe, the idea is to have the design teams collaborate with both groups implementing tweaks for their respective markets. While this sounds good on paper my fear is that the U.S. market won’t get a true Mondeo, and will instead receive a bastardized Mondeo/Fusion hybrid.

Personally I think Ford is missing the mark with this approach because Ford Europe has already designed a great car that doesn’t need to be modified at all, just sell the Mondeo in the U.S. as is. The so called “design cues” preferred by the American consumer as the very things that are driving the American consumer to the competition, there is no reason to implement them on a perfectly good car.

After all, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen, Porsche, Lexus, Toyota, etc, etc, are all having no problems selling a car in America that is exactly the same as its European counterpart, I’m sure there is a lesson in there somewhere. Especially since the ’07 Mondeo has some obvious design cues “borrowed” from Lexus and Acura.

Ford's Best Car isn't Sold in the U.S.

Speaking of Ford something they should consider doing is bringing the new Ford Mondeo Sedan over to America ASAP, as it would probably be a much stronger competitor to the Japanese mid-sized sedans than their current state-side offerings. While the previous generation (the abysmal Ford Contour) didn’t do so well stateside and there is likely to be some resistance to a car designed by Ford Europe, it’s quite possible that the rather “German Flavored” new model might sell better than their Detroit based offerings.

For instance I’ve never particularly cared for American cars outside of GM’s Pony cars, GMC SUVs and the Corvette and have always purchased German ones, but upon seeing the Ford Mondeo in Europe my first reaction was: “Nice, what kind of car is that, woah, wait, that’s a Ford?!” I’m sure I’m not the only person who would react in that manner to seeing the new Ford Mondeo, especially with its German themed interior.

ford news

"New Ford Mondeo marks a step change for Ford in terms of design and technology," says Ford Australia's President, Tom Gorman.

The new Mondeo comes in either sedan or hatchback (though it looks more like a sporty liftback) with a standard feature list that includes an Intelligent Protection System (IPS). This protection system is made up of Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD) and Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), plus Dynamic Stability Control and seven airbags. As such, the new model is one of the safest mid-sized cars on the road.

The Australian pricing is as follows:

LX 4-door 6-speed automatic: $29,990
Zetec 4-door 6-speed automatic: $34,990
Zetec 5-door 6-speed automatic: $34,990
TDCi 4-door 6-speed automatic: $37,990
TDCi 5-door 6-speed automatic: $37,990
XR5 Turbo 5-door 6-speed manual: $41,990

The entry level LX comes with a 2.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine similar in design to the Mazda6 engine, with 118kW and 208Nm. There's also a 2.0-litre diesel with big reserves of torque (320Nm) and the range-topping Ford Mondeo XR5 Turbo. This unique 5-cylinder sports model delivers turbo performance with 162kW.

As well as the new look exteriors, the interiors are also highly contemporary, with an uncluttered centre console and intuitive multifunction steering wheel buttons.

"Mondeo will introduce new levels of style, refinement and safety to the medium size segment and set a new benchmark for how a car should drive," said Ford Australia President Tom Gorman.

"Exemplary driving dynamics is a key element of Ford DNA and Mondeo is no exception. The new model delivers an outstanding driving experience and customers will be extremely impressed with just how good the overall package is."

There are four models in the Australian Mondeo range including the base model LX, a higher specification Zetec, an economical low emission turbo diesel and the range-topping luxury performance Mondeo XR5 Turbo.

Ford claims that all models in the range provide for an intuitive, flexible and spacious interior package, offering an intelligent use of space with exceptionally generous luggage capacity. The model feature list run down is as follows:

Mondeo LX ($29,990): Using 9.5-litres of fuel per 100km, This model is available as a 4-door sedan and offers impressive levels of features and safety equipment as standard, including the Intelligent Protection System (IPS) with ABS, EBD, EBA, Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and seven airbags, including a driver's knee airbag and full length side curtain airbags for rear passengers.

The Ford Mondeo LX also gets the capless refuelling feature, and an automatic hazard warning light. Voice control command of Bluetooth, audio, climate and phone control systems are optional extras on the LX.

Mondeo Zetec ($34,990): Using 9.5-litres of fuel per 100km, the higher specification Mondeo Zetec is available in either 4-door sedan or 5-door hatch and comes standard with all the features from the LX, such as the same IPS with seven airbags and DSC.

It is differentiated externally by 17-inch alloy wheels, an enhanced grille and fog lamps. Features over and above the LX include a Sony premium sound system (a 6-disc CD player with eight speakers and MP3 compatibility), rain sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, dual-zone climate control, cruise control and a leather wrapped steering wheel.

Both the LX and Zetec models are powered by the 2.3-litre Duratec 4-cylinder petrol engine producing 118kW and 208Nm, which is almost identical to the engine from the Mazda6. This 118kW engine is mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission with Sequential Sports Shift.

Mondeo TDCi ($37,990): Using 7.3-litres of fuel per 100km Powered by an advanced 2.0-litre Duratorq 4-cylinder common-rail turbo diesel engine, the TDCi model is the most fuel efficient in the range. It delivers on the key expectations of a modern diesel car says Ford: impressive refinement, large car performance and superior fuel efficiency.

"In the case of the diesel this equates to a range of more than 950km, or enough to travel from Melbourne to Sydney with enough remaining to drive around once you arrive," said Mr Gorman.

The 2.0-litre diesel engine produces 96kW of power and peak torque of 320Nm from an easily accessible 1750rpm. The diesel Mondeo can be had in either 4-door sedan or 5-door hatch comes with all the comforts found in a Zetec model and also has a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard. Mondeo XR5 Turbo ($41,990): The range-topping Mondeo XR5 Turbo is the luxury performance model of the range. It uses the same 2.5-litre 5-cylinder turbo engine as appears in the Focus XR5 Turbo, it will sit alongside other XR performance variants in the Ford portfolio such as the XR8 and XR6 Turbo Falcons, and the XR4 Fiesta. It drinks 9.5-litres of fuel per 100km.

With all the safety and comfort features as the Zetec and TDCi variants, the XR5 Mondeo gets the strongest visual treatment, with the addition of 18-inch alloy wheels, lowered sport suspension and a performance-styled bodykit with front and rear bumpers, fog lamps, and unique upper and lower grilles and rocker panel moulding. Ford has also confirmed a range of new driver-focused technologies found in the XR5 Turbo include keyless start via a 'Ford Power' start button. Ford's new Human Machine Interface is available across the range. Consisting of easily accessible steering wheel mounted controls and an easy to read cluster display, HMI means the driver's hands never have to leave the wheel to read relevant vehicle related information such as radio, phone and personalised settings. The Mondeo XR5 Turbo also offers an enhanced cluster display featuring a 15cm premium colour screen.

The 2.5-litre turbo engine develops peak power of 162kW is realised @ 5000rpm and the maximum 320Nm of torque is available from a user-friendly 1500rpm all the way through to 4800rpm. To further enhance the sports pedigree of the XR5 Turbo, it is only available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Ford claims that, in light of the impressive array of safety equipment and standard specification, the recommended retail price of all models sets a new benchmark for the segment. "With the arrival of Mondeo, Ford now has our strongest ever portfolio of imported small to medium passenger cars, giving us the ability to deliver an even greater range of desirable new vehicles to our customers," says Ford Australia's President Tom Gorman.

Mondeo is the first production iteration of Ford's exciting new 'kinetic design' philosophy in Australia, creating a sleek and dynamic profile expressing energy in motion. "The best way to describe kinetic design is to think about a sprinter at the starting blocks, tilting forward and poised for action – it's all about creating an athletic and purposeful stance. This is the image that the new Mondeo portrays, in motion or stationary," said Mr Gorman.

"Elements of kinetic design also apply to the interior of the vehicle and are evident in the ambient lighting, soft-touch materials and attention to detail in the cabin environment," said Tom Gorman.

Ford expects that the dramatic design, state of the art safety, innovative features and an attractive recommended retail price will see the new model enjoy the same success in Australia as it has already experienced in Europe.

There will also be a number of cost options, including prestige paint ($350), Voice control with Bluetooth ($450), and the LX 'Cruise Pack' option which includes cruise control, rear power windows, 16-inch alloy wheels, and a leather wrapped steering wheel for $1,500. Spend $1,900 and you can get a sunroof on all models except the LX, while leather seats with heated front seats for the Zetec and TDCi costs $2,000.

ford design

The design is this vehicles biggest asset. It uses Ford's 'kinetic' design ethos seen on the S-Max people mover and the new Kuga crossover SUV. The Ford Mondeo's design is modern, sleek and just a little bit sporty. The all-new Ford Falcon, due around March 2008, is likely to bear a closer resemblance to this car as Ford's new global boss, Alan Mulally, wants to tie all of Ford's global products closer together.

Ford Mondeo: Kinetic Mid-Sizer Returns To Oz

ydney, Australia — The Mondeo is back, priced at less than $30,000, and is gearing up to deliver to send shockwaves through the current mid-sized car clan. Vehicles like the Mazda6, Honda Accord Euro, and importantly the Toyota Camry are all holding their breath as one of Europe's most stylish vehicles comes to Australia.

2009 Lexus LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition

The LS 600h L Pebble Beach Edition will be a limited-run model (just 50 to be built) with Truffle Mica paint, unique wheels and interior trim, and additional standard equipment.a

Ford

Ford's high-tech new Mondeo helps drivers make the perfect hill start no matter how steep the gradient or how heavy the load. The car's sophisticated software detects the attitude of the Mondeo every time it becomes stationary – for example at traffic lights. If the Mondeo is on either an uphill or a downhill slope it automatically engages Hill Launch Assist (HLA). A smooth hill start normally requires significant co-ordination skills from a driver. Initially the car is held on the handbrake while the clutch is progressively disengaged and the accelerator applied. As inertia is overcome, the handbrake is gradually released to avoid rollback.

2009 Jaguar XF

The 2009 Jaguar XF marks a radical departure from the S-Type it replaces. Styling is unique for Jaguar, though the new XF bears a passing resemblance to the XK sport coupe. Power comes from a 4.2 liter V8, with both naturally -aspirated (300 hp) and supercharged (420 horsepower) versions available. The six-speed automatic transmission gets an industry-first dial selector as well as steering-wheel-mounted shifter paddles.

2009 Hyundai Sonata

The 2009 Sonata gets a round of updates, including updated styling, revised interior, improved engines that turn out more power with better fuel economy, and a suspension tuned to deliver a firmer ride and sportier handling.

2009 Hyundai Genesis

Hyundai's top-of-the-line Genesis sedan makes its debut for the 2009 model year. Though the Genesis is targeting cars like the Chrysler 300, Toyota Avalon and Pontiac G8, Hyundai says their design and engineering targets were the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5-series. The rear-wheel-drive Genesis offers a choice of a 3.8 liter V6 or a 4.6 liter V8.

2009 Hyundal Elantra Touring

he 2009 Elantra Touring is a 5-door mini-wagon verison of the Elantra sedan introduced in 2007. Though the two cars share a name and an engine, the Elantra Touring gets unique (and, if you ask me, infinitely more handsome) styling and a sport-tuned suspension. Think of it as a Korean Mazda3 hatchback.

2009 Honda Civic LX-S

All Civics get updated front and rear styling for 2009. Shown here is the new LX-S, one of two new 2009 Civic models. The LX-S gets alloy wheels, a small trunk spoiler, and upgraded interior trim.

Honda Fit 2009/8

2009 Honda Fit

Just two years after introducing the Fit to the US market, Honda has a new version set to go on sale as a 2009 model. Though the old Fit's trick rear seats and center-mounted fuel tank remain, the new Fit will get radically improved styling, an updated engine, and an available GPS-linked navigation system.

2009 Ford Focus Coupe

2009 Ford Focus coupes gets sportier-looking front and rear fascias, and SES versions get 17" wheels, a roof-mounted spoiler, a meaner-sounding exhaust, and -- for automatic-transmission models -- a new final-drive ratio that provides quicker off-the-line acceleration.

2009 Dodge Challenger SE

2009Dodge Challenger SE
The SE is to be the entry-level Challenger, with a 250 hp 3.5 liter V6 and 4-speed automatic transmission.