2013 GMC Acadia Test

In the SUV segment are many choices of all sizes, colors and styles to suit all tastes. So it is sometimes so hard to choose which is the best and you have to go into detail to check each of the benefits of each model and then choose the most suitable for each buyer.

This time we had the opportunity to test the new 2013 GMC Acadia in what was a very special, taking it by the flat roads of Florida first, and then embark on an adventure in North Carolina uphill gradient and thus ascertain what Acadia is made when the land is subject to a bit more difficult.

The ride in Florida was just delicious, shooting the GMC Acadia spotless, very comfortable about manners excellent, very good for a long trip like this, thanks to the convenience of its two rows of seats, the second with captain chairs separate with good space between them to accommodate a medium sized dog and also enjoy the ride. It should be noted that the Acadia has a third row of seats allowing passengers to sit three more but with a smaller space for the legs. This line is fully foldable seats which help to significantly increase cargo space.

Arriving when climbing hills is when experiencing the GMC Acadia in all its glory, thanks in large part to its AWD all wheel. During our test drive we -- quite complicated, some of them seemed a wall in the way that complicated curve, especially when the floor was wet and sometimes hail or snow had stopped its sequel, making the road a slide track type that had to be taken with caution. But the GMC Acadia behaved like a champ, rising each of these hills without any problems, as almost without slipping and pleading that the degree of difficulty was higher to show off even more with their performance, with impressive grip thanks to its traction control and poise that offers a strong sense of security and power.

The GMC Acadia rides a 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 288 horsepower and 270 pounds per foot of torque. This machine is coupled to an upgraded six-speed automatic transmission.

The overall look of the GMC Acadia has not undergone major changes since it was launched into production in 2007. However, the 2013 model comes with finest materials inside are noticed more specifically in its instrument panel and doors. The navigation system is easy usability with activations very suitable for GPS, audio, and climate controls in the case of video models come equipped with DVD vanity as our test unit. The multimedia interface provides a digital display operable by touch and in turn is compatible to connect devices via Bluetooth, integration of smart phones (smartphones) and voice commands with its IntelliLink system.

Continuing with the interior, the seats offer individual climate control which is a big advantage, especially when the U.S. winter freezing temperatures begin to penetrate the interior.

The visibility of the GMC Acadia has not been one of his best virtues traditionally speaking, but, for the 2013 model, the rear window has been designed so that all his clothes back increasing the capability of driver visibility.

Among the items you will find the buyer also highlights the dual sunroof, towing package that allows the Acadia tow up to 5,000 pounds. Similarly this SUV comes (optional) type with Xenon headlights, and blind spot detection system that detects the proximity of objects or vehicles when backing up. As standard the 2013 GMC Acadia offers type rearview video camera, an advantage that increases their security levels significantly.

As for fuel consumption to expect from Acadia in city traffic about 17 miles per gallon while highway consumption can reach 24 mpg.

The suggested base price of the 2013 GMC Acadia varies between its various versions, with front-wheel drive or four-wheel integrated one of the main differences that do fluctuate in value. For front-wheel drive version the basic cost starts around $ 32,000, while his exemplary AWD is around $ 41 to $ 45,000 in base price.

2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 Test

This time we had the opportunity to evaluate one of the last productions of the alliance between the Special Vehicle Team Ford (SVT) and Shelby: 2013 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500.

The 2012 saw the death of Carroll Shelby, who was one of the icons of motorsport and the American automobile industry. Carroll not only known as a great driver in the late 50s, but also distinguished by innovative design and creation of various sports cars.

60 years of experience manifest in the 2013 Shelby GT500 engine. This is a new 5.8-liter supercharged V8 capable of developing up to 662 horsepower and 631 lb.-ft. of torque.
For this year increased its displacement (+0.4 liters) and included some elements of the Ford GT. The result was the increased power (+100 HP) and the fuel consumption reduction (-1.0 MPG).

The tremendous power is channeled through a sports manual transmission coupled to a six-speed shaft carbon fiber. The latter distributes the power to the rear wheels exclusively through a specially developed differential for this vehicle.

Interior

The suspension system was designed and manufactured by the brand known Bilstein sports suspension. One can choose from firm damping (Sport) or soft (Normal) via a button located on the left side of the instrument panel. In this same area there is another button you can choose to configure the system-power-assisted steering, among the same options.

Furthermore, vented disc brakes have been provided by Brembo, which ensure the necessary power to stop this vehicle in 102 feet from 60 miles per hour.
Inside we find a optional Recaro sport seats ($ 1,595) lined in leather with excellent lateral support and a large cobra embroidered on the back, on whose flanks incorporated holes to install seatbelts sports.

Officially, this vehicle is able to accommodate up to four occupants, two fronts have enough space to ensure comfort, but subsequent occupants are not as lucky.
The instrument panel has two round gauges, simple, clear and large. The interesting thing was the small digital panel (LCD 4.2 ") between them, where we can configure the information displayed via the steering wheel mounted controls.

If you choose to add the SVT Track Package ($ 2,995) not only manages the central black lines on the outside, but also the software and hardware needed to monitor the performance of the vehicle during its journey through high performance testing.

Outside the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 is clearly distinguishable from the "ordinary Mustangs" through special front grille, which is adorned with a cobra on one side, the headlights have a classic design with projection technology Mustang HID The wheels are forged aluminum 19 "front and 20" rear, the front fenders are also adorned with the emblem of the cobra.

Behind functional find a large spoiler, a diffuser, two dual tailpipes made of stainless steel and other emblem that highlights the joint effort between Shelby and SVT teams.
The driving experience on the Shelby GT500 is typical of a "muscle-car", ie loud, powerful and very proud. Despite the 662 HPs management is docile, but this can change quickly will the driver.

The priority is safety, so installed systems to prevent accidents such as ESC and ABS. Also find air bags front and side for front occupants and an automatic SOS alert in case of accident.
The price of the 2013 Mustang Shelby GT500 starts at $ 54.200. Our test unit reached $ 63.475 including destination charge ($ 795).

In conclusion, the Ford Shelby GT500 is a great toy for adults like to take the opportunity to take your car to the circuit while using it in their daily routine. Despite being an extremely powerful car, their levels are reasonable fuel consumption (15 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway) provided you keep control of your right foot.
No doubt that this is a horse that would be in my stable.