2011 Porsche Panamera Review



The 2011 Porsche Panamera. "Controversial" doesnt begin to describe the styling.

The Nissan Juke. The Scion xB. Those are the two cars that have gotten the most negative comments about their styling while we were driving them. And by the most, I mean a 50/50 split on the xB, 60/40 negative/positive on the Juke.

The Porsche Panamera? 100% thumbs down.

Now, this is rare. Normally, when I roll up in a Porsche...any Porsche...even the Cayenne and especially the 911...theres a lot of oohing and aahing and "omigodiwantone" going on.

Not with the Panamera. "Looks like someone dropped a boulder on a 911" was the frequent review.



Approach the 2011 Porsche Panamera from the front the first few times. Itll help.

The good news is that, especially from the front, there is some family resemblance to the cars weve come to know and love from Porsche. And, while not blindingly fast, at least not in Panamera 4 all-wheel-drive form like our tester, it still is a very quick big sedan...0-60 in 5.8 seconds and a top speed of 159 miles per hour.

That performance is from the 3.6 liter V6, which cooks up 300 horsepower and 295 pounds per foot of torque. With a 7-speed automatic, the Panamera gets an EPA estimated 18 city/26 highway miles per gallon. Which, again, is very good for a big sedan. And it handles very, very well.



The four-seat interior of the 2011 Porsche Panamera.

Inside the car, you cant see what the car looks like on the outside, and you are in a very Porsche environment...at least a Porsche environment as defined by the Cayenne SUV. Theres room for four, its all very plush...but the Teutonic simplicity of the marques best sports cars? No. Of course, you probably couldnt sell a luxury sedan equipped like that, but the Panamera went the exact opposite direction. There are forty-four buttons on the center console alone. Factor in window switches, audio system stuff and the rest, and the count throughout the cabin gets stratospheric.

The list of what comes with the car as standard equipment and whats optional is very long and highly dependent on whether you order the Panamera, Panamera S, Panamera 4, Panamera 4S, Panamera S Hybrid, Panamera Turbo or Panamera Turbo S, so well just let you surf over to Porsches website to check it out for yourself.

As noted above, ours was the Panamera 4. Base price $79,800. And Porsches press fleet folks added Basalt Black Metallic paint ($790), a ski bag ($405), auto dimming interior and exterior mirrors ($420), front heated seats ($525), heated steering wheel ($250), 19" Panamera Turbo wheels ($1,950), a Bose surround sound system ($1,440), SiriusXM radio ($750) and Porsche crest front headrests ($285). Bottom line including $975 destination charge: $87,590.

The only thing missing...at least to this Porschephile whos never met a 911 he didnt like? The roar of the engine. Porsches sixes give off this wonderful wail when you tromp on the accelerator, but the Panamera V6 just gathers up speed silently. I wonder if the faster Panameras (the S hybrid makes 60 in 5.7 seconds with a top speed of 167, the S 5.2 and 175, the 4S 4.8 and 175, the Turbo 4.0 and 188 and the Turbo S 3.6 and 190) have any of that snarl or if its all speed.  Hopefully Porsche will allow us to find out first-hand.

Again, you have to remember that the Panamera is new territory...Porsches response to swoopy luxury sedans like the Mercedes-Benz CLS, Audi A7, Maserati Quattroporte and the Jaguar XJ. And by any objective measure, theyve hit the target. 

The Reasonably Priced Vehicle Of 2011 Nissan Versa Hatchback 1 8 SL Reviews

The Reasonably Priced Vehicle Of 2011 Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL Reviews - The brand New 2011 Nissan Versa includes the brand New engine of DOHC I4 at 1.8 liter. It might hit the electrical power at 122 hp and 127 lb-ft of torque. This engine presents you with 1.8 liter of CVT. For those who choose the base product of 2011 Nissan Versa, you’re going to get a further form of engine. It delivers you with 1.6 liter of I4 engine. 107 hp and 111 lb-ft might be yours. It includes 5-speed handle. The fuel overall economy is just not genuinely amazing. The 2011 Nissan Versa can operate at 28 miles per gallon inside metropolis. Inside great way, it may operate at 34 miles per gallon. It could be wonderful if the 2011 Nissan Versa features the purchaser with improved fuel performance.

The transmission is so wonderful. The CVT provides you with sleek pauses if you trade the gears. It retains the auto continuous and steady even once you generate it at bigger velocity. The managing is breathtaking as well. It features you with sixteen inch of make it easy for wheels. The security functions of the 2011 Nissan Versa include things like 6 airbags. When you are thinking about buying the 2011 Nissan Versa, it’s important to commit the cash ranging from $13,520 to $16,900. The 2011 Nissan Versa is so inexpensive, isn’t really it?

The cabin is roomy and secure. You’re going to get spacious headroom. It is rather tall which may provide you with well-ventilated area. The back again seat passenger is good. You’ll get significant headroom and leg space there. Whilst it is just a small bit narrow, you are able to seat two grownup along with a little one on that place. Chances are you’ll also acquire a great deal trunk utilizing the 2011 Nissan Versa. Some devices will also be out there the following. You’ll get electrical power manage, radio, cruise handle, environment command, navigation method, Bluetooth, and mirror manage.

2011 Audi A4 2 0 TDI

The new diesel edition of Audi A4 is really a no compromise family car with a super efficient engine.

The 2011 Audi A4 2.0 TDI sedan has a 4.4 liters per 100 km (53.46 US mpg) fuel consumption, and the Avant (station wagon / estate) version has a 4.6 liters (51.13 US mpg) fuel economy. Apart from having a very good fuel efficiency, both the 2011 Audi A4 2.0 TDI Avant and the sedan offers low CO2 emissions. The sedan is rated at 115 grams per km (185.07 g/mile) and the Avant at 120 grams (193.12).

The two new A4 models use the technologies from Audi’s modular efficiency platform. All the gear ratios of their six-speed manual transmissions were lengthened slightly, and the forged 16-inch alloy wheels are shod with 206/60 tires that have been optimized with respect to rolling resistance. Aerodynamic tweaks to the body and a lower ride height improves the drag coefficient, while the on-board computer with efficiency program gives the driver tips about when to shift and on fuel-efficient driving.

As for the price, the sedan costs €31,600 and the Avant €33,250.


Press Release


Audi boosts efficiency again: A4 consumes just 4.4 liters per 100 km (53.46 US mpg)

• Sedan emits 115 grams of CO2 per kilometer (185.07 grams per mile)
• Powerful two-liter TDI with 100 kW (136 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque
• Potent technologies from the modular efficiency platform

Audi is further improving the efficiency of its models. Starting immediately, two new versions of the best-selling A4 that consume less fuel than ever are available in Germany. The sedan consumes just 4.4 liters of diesel per 100 km (53.46 US mpg) on average, with CO2 emissions of 115 grams per km (185.07 g/mile). These same figures for the A4 Avant are 4.6 liters (51.13 US mpg) and 120 grams (193.12). CO2 emissions have been reduced by four and nine grams, respectively, compared with the previous models.

Efficiency at Audi does not come at the expense of sportiness. The new models have powerful engines. Their two-liter TDI generates 100 kW (136 hp) and 320 Nm (236.02 lb-ft) of torque, the latter of which is available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The sedan accelerates from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 9.5 seconds on its way to a top speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph); the Avant completes the standard sprint in 9.8 seconds and reaches 208 km/h (129.25 mph).

The two new A4 models use the technologies from Audi’s modular efficiency platform. All the gear ratios of their six-speed manual transmissions were lengthened slightly, and the forged 16-inch alloy wheels are shod with 206/60 tires that have been optimized with respect to rolling resistance. Aerodynamic tweaks to the body and a lower ride height improves the drag coefficient, while the on-board computer with efficiency program gives the driver tips about when to shift and on fuel-efficient driving.

Audi offers the two new efficiency top models in the A4 series in the Attraction trim line. The Audi A4 2.0 TDI (100 kW 115 g CO2/km) has a base price of €31,600; prices for the A4 Avant 2.0 TDI (100 kW 120 g CO2/km) start at €33,250.

2011 Lexus RX 350 Review

 

The shape is instantly recognizable. Its the vehicle that started the whole luxury-crossover segment more than a decade ago...looking much like it does today. 

Sure, there have been refinements. Thats whats kept the Lexus RX 350 at the top of its game...but the fact that the basic design is within walking distance of what it was in the late 90s is testament to just how right Lexus got the RX.

RX 350s are everywhere. In traffic this afternoon, I was behind three of them, all white. But familiarity and popularity have done nothing to lessen the status. This is THE luxury crossover. A lot of people wouldnt drive anything else (note to self: a piece on people whore on their fourth or fifth RX might be very interesting).

A big factor in the RXs favor is price. Base is only $37,975. That gets you a 3.5 liter 275 horsepower V6, a 6 speed automatic transmission with "snow mode", 18" aluminum alloy wheels, a raft of safety features, a premium audio system with a six-disc in-dash CD changer, Bluetooth and a 90-day trial to XM Satellite Radio.

Ah, but were not done. Also on the standard equipment list is an auto dual-zone climate control system with rear vents, a power tilt and telescope steering column, 10-way power drivers and front passengers seats, height-adjustable headrests for all the seats, genuine wood trim and a bunch more.

And the cockpit is one of the nicest, most serene places you could spend your commutes and vacations in. If it sounds like you could stop with just the standard equipment and keep the tab under $40,000, you could. And youd have a very nice piece. But the one we drove also had the Comfort Package (rain sensing wipers, High Intensity headlamps, Adaptive Front Lighting (the headlights turn with the front wheels, helping you see around corners), and heated and ventilated front seats. Thats $1,950.

It also had the Luxury Package (semi-aniline leather trim, a moonroof, retractable outside mirrors, wood and leather steering wheel and shift knob, a wide-angle backup camera, an upgrade to 19" alloy wheels, a USB audio plug, power rear door, memory for the seats and mirrors, illuminated scuff plates and headlamp cleaners. Add $4,900.

Thats not all, though. The Mark Levinson Premium Surround Sound system with a 6 disc DVD changer and 15 speakers was also on the list ($1,610). And then theres the navigation system with XM NavTraffic and NavWeather at $2,465.

Oh, and a cargo net for $59.00.

Tack on the delivery fee ($875) and youre at......

$49,834. Which (and you wont hear me say this too often) is actually reasonable for what youre getting. The quality of the vehicle itself and the upgrades makes the experience of driving an RX 350 equipped like this one exceed the sticker price. It feels like $60,000 (in fact, it feels better than some $60,000 vehicles weve driven) and its a shade under $50,000. 

Not many cars can say that, and its probably a huge chunk of the reason the RX 350 continues to be the leader in its segment.

EPA mileage estimates: 18 city/25 highway.

One more thing: Especially when buying a luxury vehicle, the dealership experience matters a lot. One of our recent RX350 vehicles came from Bell Lexus in Phoenix.  Sales Associate Anthony Covington spent half an hour acquainting me with the finer points of the vehicle before I left the lot...and pointed out things the Lexus PR department hadnt...like how finishing the insides of the wheel wells helps keep the exterior cleaner, the ride quieter and reduces the risk of long-term damage and/or corrosion. Or how, since the redesign, the edges of the doors extend all the way to the bottom of the body...protecting the doorsills, which means you dont get road grime on your trouser cuffs as you enter and exit the car. Its a pleasure to deal with people who know their product that well.

2011 Porsche Boxster

The 2011 Boxster is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in 3 trims, ranging from the Base to the Spyder.

Upon introduction, the Base is equipped with a standard 2.9-liter, H6, 255-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. The Spyder is equipped with a standard 3.4-liter, H6, 320-horsepower engine that achieves 19-mpg in the city and 27-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims, and a 7-speed manual transmission with overdrive is optional.

The 2011 Boxster is a carryover from 2010. 

Design.
The design of the Boxster models is governed by one philosophy above all: that the styling of a Porsche reflects its inner values. Here, the primary value is extreme performance.
This concept also follows a traditional Porsche theme: the seamless blend of function and design. Visually exciting with performance to match.
The emphasis on performance is immediately evident from the front, where enlarged air intakes in a geometric arrangement give the Boxster an even more dynamic look – and increase cooling power. On the Boxster, the air intake grilles are finished in the exterior colour, whereas on the Boxster S they are contrasted in black. The powerful design is complemented by striking spoiler lips and the two models have a drag coefficient value of 0.29 and 0.30, respectively.
At the front, the headlight design makes the Boxster models unmistakable-especially at night. Both models are fitted as standard with halogen headlights and LED daytime running lights integrated separately into the clusters above the outer air intakes. Bi-Xenon headlights with dynamic cornering lights, including LED daytime running lights, are available on request. The headlight design emphasises the striking contour of the wing. The rear has been restyled with a LED taillight module that blends harmoniously with the overall design. The centrally located stai.

 Character
You can tell a good concept from the fact that it isn’t just short-term. We appear to have got something right.
Because the basic concept of the Boxster has lost none of its appeal in over 60 years.
Even though the gap between the Porsche 356 No.1, the 550 Spyder and the Boxster seems huge, it’s still an out-andout roadster. High performance, lightweight construction, sporting agility, pure driving pleasure – these values are reflected in every detail.
The newly developed 2.9-litre sixcylinder Boxer engine delivers a power output of 188 kW (255 hp) at 6,400 rpm and a maximum torque of 290 Nm at between 4,400 and 6,000 rpm.

2011 Porsche Cayenne TITAN EVO XL 600 by speedART

German tuner SpeedArt has announced plans to introduce the Titan EVO XL 600 at the Geneva Motor Show.

SpeedArt’s new tuning kit is based on the Cayenne Turbo and, as its name suggests, updates to the engine allow the SUV to get 600 HP (up from a standard 500 HP) and 627 lbs-ft of torque. Adding to the package is a new flashy bodykit with striping similar to the Porsche 997 GT3 RS MkII and many other new components, including new front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a new exhaust system. Finishing the sporty look of the Cayenne is a new set of 23-inch forged alloy wheels.

On the technical side SpeedART outfittes the SUV with a new exhaust system and a performance upgrade. The Porsche Cayenne Diesel receives 50 extra horsepower, the Hybrid 70hp, and the Turbo 100hp and 150Nm of torque. So the ‘600′ in the name of the program stands for the 600hp power upgrade in the Porsche Cayenne Turbo. A 650hp and 700hp program are in the making.




Press Release

speedART TITAN-EVO-XL 600

The newest innovation of the german Porsche Tuner speedART is called TITAN-EVO-XL 600 and it is based on the new Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Here´s an overview of the speedART modifications:

Aerodynamic:
The wide body version of speedARTs aerodynamic-kit for the Cayenne 958 is called TITAN-EVO-XL and consists of the sporty front chin spoiler, the rear diffuser and the wider fender flares including the new door planking. As a result we get a whole new wide-body-design which fits optimally to the performance increased engine of the new speedART Cayenne.

Performance:
speedART provides different power kits for the Turbo engine. The strongest version of the original 500 hp engine will perform 600 hp and 850 NM of torque and will consist of a motronic-update as well as a modified exhaust system. Especially for hot countries improved intercoolers are being prepared. A power upgrate for about 650 - 700 hp is also in preperation.

Sound:
A sport exhaust system (optionally with sound switch control) and 2x100 mm twin tailpipes has been developed from speedART for the new Cayenne. As a result the sporty sound of the V8 engine and the performance upgrade are both even more accoustically emphasised. As top of the range a sport exhaust manufactured in leight weight Titian is optionally availiable.

Wheels:
In interaction with the more sporty driving performances we mount a forged 23" wheel of the type speedART CTS-FORGED. This forged and weight optimised single piece wheel set is available in 11x23 with 315/25 ZR23 tyres. Through the special forged technology the weight of our CTS rim is only 16,8 Kg which means there won´t be any additional consumption or comfort losses because of the bigger wheels. Obviously there are also modular 22" wheels availiable as a forged version.

Suspension:
For vehicles with air suspension we offer a special electronical lowering module.

Interior:
As a highlight speedART provides single carbon shell-type seats and a multi-media-unit with iPad and iPod-docking-station.