Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 2011. Show all posts

Wednesday, May 29, 2013

2011 Mercedes Benz E350 Cabriolet Review

Front 3/4 view of white 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet parked with top down

Exclusivity. Its a fabulous thing, really. A certain something, often built of superior craftsmanship, sometimes of smoke and mirrors, that makes your product special, enables you to sell it for a premium and ensures that your customers wont feel like one of the herd.

For a long, long time, Mercedes-Benz had that in spades. And it was built of superior craftsmanship. Those of us of a certain age can remember when Mercedes-Benzes werent especially pretty (the stunning 300SL Gullwing a notable exception), and werent especially fast (again excepting the 300SL), but sold to discriminating buyers for about two and a half times the sticker price of a domestic sedan or convertible in its size class because they werent simply engineered, they were over-engineered. This was a thing of value, likely to last far more than two and a half times longer than the domestic.

And as they became prettier and faster, and more expensive, a generation of car buyers became like little kids with their noses pressed against the showroom window pane...."someday...someday..."

And thats when the MBAs (or Germanys equivalent) spoke up. "Imagine if we could sell all those people the car of their dreams. Wed have to move into size and price classes we dont currently compete in, but we could do that by cutting out some of the unnecessary engineering. The materials dont have to be that good...they just have to be good enough. The price tags will be lower for some cars, but think of what well make in volume."

And thus began, in the mid to late 90s, Mercedes-Benzs pursuit of market share. They went from building the best car possible to building as many cars as possible. Loyal buyers noticed and began shopping elsewhere. New buyers, confronted with lesser and cheaper while looking down the hood at the three-pointed star began to wonder what all the shouting was about.

Well, lately, Mercedes has begun to show signs of finding the way back...building cars that look and feel like something special...and the E350 Cabriolet is one of those. Larger and more useful than the SLK roadster and significantly less expensive than the two-seat SL, the E350 is user-friendly and imparts a sense of premium goods from the moment you slide behind the wheel.

Interior shot of 2011 Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet

Pictures dont do the interior justice. And the no-cost option of burl walnut wood trim goes a long way to adding warmth. But every surface, every control, has a premium feel.

Starting at $56,850, the E350 Cabriolet commes with a 3.5 liter, 24-valve aluminum V8 that makes 268 horsepower. Not a shocking amount, but its good enough for 0-60 in 6.4 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 130. The power is routed through a 7-speed driver-adaptive automatic transmission with sport and economy shift modes. As with most new cars, the extra gears pay off in fuel economy, with the EPA estimating 17 city and 25 highway miles per gallon.

The list of standard equipment is so long, were simply going to link to Mercedes website to fill in the details. Suffice it to say that the MBUSA press fleet folks believed only two options were needed on the test car...Diamond White paint for $1,515 (it is gorgeous) and a Premium Package (40GB hard drive GPS navigation, real-time traffic data, voice control, a 6GB Music Register, the Harmon/Kardon LOGIC7 Surround Sound System with Dolby Digital 5.1, HD Radio and SiriusXM satellite radio, iPod/mp3 interfaces and cables, heated front seats, AIRSCARF...a heater built into the headrest for your neck...and a rear-view camera) for $4,000.

All this for $63,240 with destination and delivery charges. Having driven a lot of 30 and 40-something thousand dollar cars, I have to say the E350 Cabriolet is worth its price sticker if those others are worth theirs. Its a special car. And its nice to know Mercedes-Benz is back in the business of building those.

Monday, May 20, 2013

2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Reviews Specs And Pictures

2011 Mazda MAZDA6 Reviews, Specs And Pictures - Mazda has launched a whole New automobile. The kind is MAZDA6. The base product of the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is offered while in the MSRP of $26,820. The 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 is developed based upon sedan search. It truly is economical as being a household vehicle. There are many specs obtainable on your consideration. The engine is accessible in two choices. The very first engine works by using a 2.5 liter of Inline-4 engines. It could create approximately 170 horsepower. The fuel sort is gasoline. The curb pounds is 3,329 lbs.


The next engine works by using a 3.7 liter of V6 engine. It may possibly deliver as much as 272 horsepower. The transmission is in automated handle. The very first engine incorporates by 6-speed manual handle. The 2nd engine offers you with 5-speed command. One particular issue for certain, the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 will not be the quickest vehicle from the automobile marketplace. Even so, it’s a single with the highly effective automobiles to get viewed as if you need to acquire a whole New Car or truck.

The acceleration incorporates 0 to 60 mph inside of 6.5 seconds for that V6. The Inline-4 engine only incorporates 9.1 seconds. The fuel economic climate runs at 21 miles per gallon within the town. In the event you utilize the 2011 Mazda MAZDA6 within the substantial way, it may operate approximately 24 miles per gallon. The security capabilities involves the balance manage, anti lock brakes, facet curtain airbags, traction manage, and front seat air bags. The inside is made in roomy type. You’ll have the ability to seat you relatives easily in it.

Friday, May 10, 2013

2011 Audi A3


 2011 Audi A3

This car also comes with a choice of new exterior colors such as Amethyst Gray, Gray Dakota, Scuba Blue, and Red. New customers can also choose a new 17-inch wheels, and 18 inch new. In the interior, riders will be treated to leather seats, lever gear and instruments with a gray background. Audi has not announced the price of the Audi A3 and S3 2011.
Hatchback buyers tend to fall into two camps: people who are looking for a sporty compact, and people who are looking for utility on a budget. One thing both camps should be concerned with, however, is safety. While there’s a perception that budget-friendly compact hatchbacks aren’t safe, there are actually a number of models with good crash-protection ratings and innovative safety features. You just have to know what to look for.  
Driving a Hatchback Safely.
Hatchback drivers have a few advantages over people who drive coupes or sedans. In most hatchbacks, visibility tends to be good. Most hatchbacks have an upright chair-like seating position, which gives drivers a commanding view of the road ahead. Plus, because hatchbacks have high rooflines and lots of glass, side and rearward visibility tend to be good as well.
However, you still need to check the visibility carefully when you test drive a hatchback. Some newer hatchback models have SUV-like styling. On models like the Kia  Soul and Nissan it can be tough to see objects that are directly behind you because they have an upright design with a rear window that’s far off the ground. Other hatchbacks, like theHonda Fit and Kia Forte hatchback have rear windows that are lower to the ground, making it easier to see if there is anything behind you.
Even if a hatchback doesn’t have the upright styling of an SUV, its design can impact visibility. For example, the rear roof pillars in the Nissan Versa are very wide: this makes the car stronger, but it also makes the pillars difficult to see around. The same is true for the Scion xD No matter how much you like a hatchback’s styling, make sure it won’t get in the way of safe driving.
Cargo and Safety
Hatchbacks are great for hauling cargo. But, filling a hatchback’s cargo area with your gear brings safety issues into play. You should always keep cargo separate from passengers. If cargo simply has to be in the passenger compartment, make sure it’s secure. In an accident, you don’t want cargo flying around.
Hatchbacks are popular with pet owners because it’s easy to put your dog or cat in the back and keep your seats clean. However, if you’re putting your pet in your hatchback’s cargo area, you need to secure it -- for Fido’s safety and for yours. In a crash at 50 miles per hour, an unrestrained ten-pound dog will exert about 500 pounds of pressure on any object it hits. That includes you. An 80-pound unrestrained dog in a 30-mile-per-hour crash will exert about 2,400 pounds of pressure. That’s like getting hit by a Honda Civic.
Luckily, hatchbacks are meant for cargo and can carry a lot of it safely. The Volkswagen Golf has 12.4 cubic feet of space in its cargo area. That’s enough for a few suitcases. The Honda Fit has a whopping 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space -- more than most other small hatchbacks -- behind its backseats. If you routinely haul a lot of cargo, look into optional cargo management features like bins and nets, which keep your stuff secure.
Hatchback Crash Test Ratings
Before buying any hatchback, you need to check out its crash-test ratings. Crash tests are controlled collisions that measure how good a car is at protecting the people inside it. It’s no guarantee of how a car will perform in a real collision, but it’s one of the strongest indicators of vehicle safety that shoppers have.
Two organizations complete crash-test ratings: the federal government’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute of Highway Safety (IIHS). You might be familiar with NHTSA scores: cars, trucks and SUVs earn stars (five stars is the best) for how well they protect occupants in front- and side-impact crashes. They also earn stars based on their likelihood of rolling over in a single vehicle crash, and get an overall rating. IIHS also rates vehicles in front- and side-impact crashes, but they also test roof strength and how good the seats are at protecting occupants in rear-impact collisions. IIHS gives scores that range from “Good” to “Poor.” IIHS also names “Top Safety Picks.”  Cars that earn “Top Safety Pick” status get the best scores possible on all crash test measures and have standard electronic stability control.
Hatchback crash-test scores can vary considerably, so do your research before you buy. For example, the  hatchback hybrid earns three stars in front- and side-impact crash protection, but gets a five-star rollover score. Overall, it only gets three stars from NHTSA. By contrast, the Subaru Impreza wagon is a hatch that does better in crash tests. It’s an IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”
One other thing hatchback buyers have to pay attention to is which model is being crash tested. For example, there’s a hatchback version of the Nissan Versa, but the sedan model was the only one tested by NHTSA. The same is true for the Ford Fiesta While these hatchbacks have similar engineering to their sedan counterparts, bear in mind that the crash-test results may not match what you encounter in the real world.  Also, if you’re considering both a two-door and four-door hatchback, pay attention to which body style the crash-test results apply. TheWolk, for example, can have two or four passenger doors, but the four-door models are the ones that get crash tested.
Key Hatchback Safety Features
Anti-lock brakes, stability and traction control are the three active safety features that smart hatchback buyer should look for. They’re called active safety features because they can actually step in and help you avoid having an accident altogether. Anti-lock brakes keep your brakes (and thus wheels) from locking. Locked wheels almost always mean a skid, which means a loss of control, which means a crash. Ditto stability and traction control. Those systems constantly monitor your wheels. If one starts to travel at a different speed than the others, which indicates a loss of traction, the systems step in, selectively applying the brakes to pull your car out of a skid. It works so seamlessly that you probably won’t even notice it happening, but when you avoid a crash, you’ll be glad they were there.

Thursday, May 9, 2013

2011 AUDI A1 BLADE AND GOLDIE BY AZNOM

 
The Audi A1 Blade and Goldie have been developed and designed by Aznom, a specialist company in leather goods, design and car’s aesthetic tuning, the first special version is dedicated to men, the second to women. The goal of this work is to enhance the Audi A1 with a strong personality, elegance and not ostentatious. Both versions Blade and Goldie therefore enhance the spirit of the car, steering it to even more customers to offer a unique customization.
BLADE: version designed for men is called Blade, based on the A1 1.6 TDI. The painting is two-tone (on a red base), pillars, roof spoiler, bumper details and rear bumper in dark gray. Just to highlight the masculine design, the Audi A1 Blade comes with kit Competition – also in dark gray – while mirror covers are made of carbon fiber. The sporty personality is shown alos for the interior, starting with black leather seats with Alcantara inserts Starlight black and red leather, while vents are made of carbon fiber. Finally; for male audience Aznom thought a bag also made with the same interior’s materials.
GOLDIE: Audi A1 Goldie is somewhat complementary to the Blade and aimed to women. In fact the engine is a 1.4 TFSI to delivery a more linear and progressive behaviour compared to diesel. Externally it has a two-tone paint white and gold matte with purple metallic reflections, enven in this case roof and rear-view mirror housings. The interior is unique just in Aznom’s style, with leather upholstery alternating white and gold leather with a special purple and beige damask print. A coordinated bag and box set completes the customization.
Accessories and equipment designed for these versions, however, does not limit customers to indulge for further customization according to their tastes and needs.

Tuesday, May 7, 2013

2011 Geneva Preview:2012 Kia Rio


The 2012 Kia Rio will be at the International Motor Show in Geneva in a few weeks.

The latest car to be revealed by Kia boasts a far slicker exterior design than the current Rio bringing it in line with the rest of South Korean companys passenger model range. There are no photos of the interior, but Kia says its newcomer "will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models" along with a wider selection of trim options.

Available in 3- and 5-door body styles, the Rio "combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair." While were not so sure about the latter statement, the redesigned model has a sportier front fascia, distinctive headlights, and a prominent C-pillar.

Kia confirms that 2012 Rio will go on sale in the U.S. in the third quarter of 2011. Pricing and range details will be announced closer to launch.




Press Release

First photos of all-new Kia Rio released


  • Korean spice and Latin flair for Kias B-segment newcomer
  • Available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe
  • Offered with wide range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 engines
  • New Rio to be unveiled at Geneva Show, alongside new Picanto

Frankfurt, 11 February 2011 - Kia Motors Corporation has today revealed the first official photos of the forthcoming next generation Rio, which boasts a bold and distinctive personality, bringing the newcomer in line with the rest of Kias striking design-led model range.

Tasked with the difficult job of improving upon the remarkable international sales success of the previous generation model, the new Kia Rio will be available in 3- and 5-door body styles in Europe, and has been designed to appeal to customers all around the world.

New Rio has its own interpretation of Kias signature grille, integrated with the headlamps to give a new twist on the Kia family look. In profile, the body to glass ratio and its strong wedge form give new Rio a dynamic sporty stance. The balance of the window graphic, wheelbase and overall proportions generates a ‘premium presence which is rare in this segment. Overall, new Rio combines European finesse with Korean spice to create a form language that communicates Latin flair.

The new model features a wheelbase extended by 70 mm (to 2,570 mm) and promises greater passenger space and comfort, together with increased cargo capacity to 292 litres (hatchback) and 390 litres (sedan). Exterior dimensions changes include: +55 mm (overall length), -15 mm (height) and +25 mm (overall width) to enhance the feeling of sportiness.

Inside, the new model will deliver a high level of quality previously associated with larger models - together with a wide selection of trim options.

Kias B-segment newcomer will be manufactured with an extensive range of fuel-efficient and low-CO2 gasoline and diesel engines - including a 1.1-litre diesel unit generating 70 ps, with CO2 emissions from as low as 85 g/km. An all-new, high-performance 1.2-litre Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) will also be available from 2012.

Soon-Nam Lee, Director of Overseas Marketing, Kia Motors Corporation, commented: "This new model is a big step forward. The Rio has always been successful, and with this new incarnation we have a car which is extremely attractive, that people will want to buy for its looks." Since its launch in 2005, global sales of the current-generation Rio have totalled more than 860,000 units. It was the companys third best-selling vehicle in overseas markets during 2010 with sales of more than 219,000 units.

The world premiere of the new Kia Rio will be celebrated at the Geneva International Motor Show on Tuesday, March 1, 2011 - alongside another all-new product for Kia, the next generation Picanto city car - during its press conference, taking place at 16.15 (CET) on the Kia stand in Hall 6. Also being displayed at Geneva, and making its European debut, is the innovative hybrid version of Kias stunning Optima sedan, scheduled to go on sale in the US market later this year.


Monday, May 6, 2013

2011 Cadillac CTS V Sport Wagon User Manual

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon

Cadillac unveiled the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon car show, anticipating the next addition to its line of performance V-Series. It combines performance and luxury of the terminal CTS-V Sport Sedan with the dramatic conception of the CTS Sport Wagon. "The Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon is a natural extension of both the CTS V-Series range, without offering high-performance cars of commitment to enthusiasts who want the extra space in a car," said Don Butler, vice president Cadillac marketing. "The Sport V-Series Wagon is another feature of the dramatic presence and power of the Cadillac.

" The exterior is finished in Midnight Black, first seen on the Cadillac Sixteen concept and is highlighted by shiny liquid silver-finished wheels and a chrome finish on the black mesh grille. The rear bumper, a spoiler at the top and center high-mounted stop lamp are also unique to the show car. Inside, the Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon Car Show is cut in exclusive black leather Alcantara accents. The top of the dashboard and door panels at the top are treated with the same high quality leather, accented with midnight Sapele wood, while the material microfiber cloth and stitching has been applied to the lower door panels, pillars, console cover, headliner and Central steering wheel. Car shows fine-grained black leather-covered seats in Alcantara Recaro seats and more. The seat inserts are divided in half, and stitching accented with dark gray, while the V-Series logo is laser etched back. Obsidian black accents grace the center console, console, steering wheel and door panels. user manual here

Thursday, May 2, 2013

2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SE FWD



Back when it was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model, the original Taurus was nothing less than a watershed family car. Forward-thinking with advanced aerodynamics and a vehicle platform to match, it was a car the likes of which Detroit had never produced and mainstream America had never had the opportunity to buy. The surging Japanese imports sat up and took notice, as did U.S. consumers and the automotive press, both of which fell in love with the distinctive "jelly bean" sedan. Taurus was a smash hit both critically and in terms of sales, but unfortunately, Americas warm cockles didnt last.
While the second-generation model (introduced for 1992) didnt do much to alter the love affair, subsequent models clouded the Taurus brand identity and found Ford floundering about trying to determine what consumers wanted out of a mid-sized sedan. In the case of the guppy-mouthed 1996 model, that floundering bordered on literal, as the Jack Telnack designed third-generation Taurus drew ire for its fish-like avant-garde styling and form-over-function utility.
The long-serving 2000-2007 model year updo that followed corrected some of the third-generation Taurus oversights (i.e. limited trunk space and rear seat headroom), but by then, the Japanese had plus-sized their own offerings and turned up the wicks on their powertrains, all but confining the Taurus to also-ran status. That model would wither away and retreat into fleet-only status in the U.S. in 2006, at which point, the Blue Oval decided to supplant the Taurus with two distinct models – the smaller Fusion and the full-size Five Hundred. The latter was high riding and particularly capacious, yet the ultimately milquetoast sedan didnt connect with consumers or pundits. Thinking that the models lackluster market response might have had something to do with the unfamiliar name, Ford would in turn exhume the Taurus moniker and slap it on the rump of a tweaked Five Hundred for 2007. It was an expedient fix, and the market recognized this move for what it was.
To sum up how Taurus went from Americas hope to Americas rental lots, the Blue Oval took it from an ahead-of-its-time, streamlined mid-size flagship to an oddly ovoid and unloved design statement, to a behind-the-curve, emergency badge-engineered full-size car. Along the way, there have been an array of wagons, a couple of notable high-performance SHO variants (and one forgettable one), but there has never been a Taurus quite like this new model.
Impressive new duds

One thing becomes immediately clear from the moment you clap eyes on the new variant – despite being based on the same D3 platform as the outgoing Five Hundred/Taurus sleeping pill, this is a radically different and altogether more confident and cohesive design. Oh, some might take issue with the mildly fussy three-bar grille treatment, but to put it simply, this new Taurus is ripped. Check out the bold sheet metal creases at the beltline and in the rocker panels; the strong U-form chamfering in the hood thats echoed in the trunk lid; the piercing, assertive headlamps and the 427 Concept-like rump.
This is a big car with a sizeable rear overhang (at 202.9 inches overall – its exactly seven inches larger than a Hyundai Genesis), and it could very easily have looked lumpen or slab-sided and larded-upon like its predecessor. Instead, the Taurus appearance is crisp and assertive, very much the proverbial linebacker in a tailored suit. Even the door mirrors are compellingly and purposefully sculpted. While the new design looks handsome in every color weve seen, it truly stands out in shades like Ingot Silver and Gold Leaf; colors that yield greater definition than darker shades (Like our Tuxedo Black tester) that cover up some of the more inspired surface details.

Inside, the Taurus modernization story continues, with a T-shaped double-hooded instrument panel that features a dramatic swept-back waterfall center console bisecting driver and passenger. All controls fall readily and logically to hand, the switchgear looks and feels good to the touch, and the ice blue backlit gauges are easy-to-read. Every 2010 Taurus steering wheel is wrapped in leather regardless of model trim, and the dashboard and door cap materials are well grained and have more give to the touch than anything in recent memory.
We could have done without the fake wood inlays, but as far as trim goes, theyre a reasonable facsimile of dead tree and they dont detract from the cabins premium ambience. The gear selector is gratuitously outsized for smaller hands, but its aesthetic keeps with the designers wish to move the Taurus away from rental-car wallflower to broad-shouldered leading man. Whether youve stepped into an SE, SEL, or top-shelf Limited model, this is a solid, mature environment thats light years ahead of the 2009 model. Indeed, this Taurus possesses a better-executed cabin than weve seen in some luxury cars costing in excess of $10,000 more.

We cant leave our discussion of the interior without talking about some of the available niceties on this new Taurus. Judging by the presentations we sat through at the cars launch event, the Dearborn team is justifiably proud of the bumper crop of available technologies that theyve crammed into their new baby. In light of its modest price point, the Taurus should be a shoo-in "Tech Car of the Year" candidate for the boys and gals over at CNET.

Not only can you get Fords voice-activated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link (in our estimation, probably the best such system in the business – irrespective of price), but you can also get such luxury features as a gangbusters Sony Dolby 5.1 surround system with the usual connectivity options (aux, USB) plus Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth and DVD audio, as well as a ten gig hard drive for music and image storage. There are available heated and cooled "Multi-Contoured" seats with "Active Motion" massaging, an optional power rear sunshade like on your neighbors BMW, switchable ambient lighting, power memory pedals, and so on. And even if you dont plump for the nav system, if you opt for Sync, you can still get audible turn-by-turn directions using a paired Bluetooth phone. We tried this system and found it to be less satisfying to use than the full-on nav interface, but its a welcome low-cost alternative and a nice safety net if you get lost.
Safety First

While the Taurus has plenty of creature comforts, theres also a raft of safety features available, including adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system that pre-charges the brakes, a blind spot information system and even cross-traffic alert to make sure the path is clear when backing out of parking spots. Our SEL tester wasnt equipped with these features, so well have to wait to pass judgment on their utility.
One noteworthy safety feature is Fords new MyKey system that allows parents to alter the vehicles performance parameters and set warnings to effectively mandate safer driving for the youngins. For instance, adults can use the system to lock out the traction-control defeat button (no smoky burnouts for Junior), impose a top speed of 80 mph (no street racing for Junior), lower the maximum volume of the stereo (no stoplight concerts for Junior), and it can even be programmed to activate the belt-minder chime incessantly and keep the stereo muted until the front seat occupants are buckled (no crash ejection seat for Junior). Kids may not like these features, but were betting that a host of parents will. Aside from the big-mother safety features, the Taurus can also be fitted with conveniences like rain-sensing wipers, auto-high beam headlamps, and capless fuel filling.

A seriously refined and comfy cruiser

If youve noticed that we have yet to touch on our actual driving impressions, thats because any thoughts of them almost get lost in the sea of options and tech that Taurus has on offer. It isnt because the cars dynamic behavior is unpleasant or disappointing, mind you – this Ford is, in fact, overwhelmingly competent. Its just that the cars actual performance abilities seem almost incidental to what is, for all intents and purposes, a luxury cruiser – an epic road-trip sedan. Like most of its potential competition, the Taurus is a machine that coddles occupants with vast equipment levels and a luxurious ride, not a sports sedan that goads one into clipping apexes en-route to the grocery store.

2011 Detroit Auto Show Mopar Fiat 500 and Chrysler 200


Chrysler announced that will bring two new Moparized vehicles at this years edition 2011 Detroit Motor Show : the 2012 Fiat 500 and the Chrysler 200 Super S.

The Mopar Fiat 500 kit includes only cosmetic mods, however, were sure there are power upgrade kits available in the USA too. The Mopar Fiat 500 comes with new side skirts and a lot of chrome. The shiny stuff is used for the Mopar Fiat 500s exhaust tip, mirror covers, fuel cap, and grilles. The Mopar Fiat 500 also comes with various decals, a rear window-mount rack, snowboard carrier, and a strut tower brace.

Not being big on interior updates, Mopar only switched out the Fiat 500’s standard interior for one filled with Katzkin leather (black with blue accents) and different carbon fiber inserts.

The Chrysler 200 Super S is dropped three inches and sports a black and tungsten paint scheme. The bodywork gets updated with a slew of parts including lower chin and rear decklid spoilers. Riding on a set of 19-inch wheels, the 200 Super S gets a major shot in the style department... for better of for worse.


 Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Mopar Fiat 500Chrysler 200



Press Release

Chrysler Group LLC to Showcase Mopar® at 2011 North American International Auto Show

Company Continues to Leverage its Service, Parts and Customer-care Brand

  • Moparized vehicles will be front and center in each brand exhibit; more than 100 accessories to be on display
  • Accessorization Station will feature live demos showcasing installation of Mopar® accessories
  • 200 Super S is Mopars interpretation of new Chrysler 200
  • Mopar Ram Runner kit production starts in March

Chrysler Group LLC will show Mopar® versatility at this years North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

In each brand display for Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, Jeep® and Ram, a Moparized vehicle will be prominently displayed. In addition, vehicles throughout the exhibit will feature a variety of Mopar performance parts and accessories.

"More than 30 percent of the people who are in the market for a new vehicle are influenced by the breadth and availability of aftermarket accessories," said Pietro Gorlier, President and CEO of Mopar, Chrysler Group LLCs service, parts and customer-care brand. "With our companys launch of 16 new vehicles, Mopar is coming to the party with a truck-load of accessories that will fit a variety of lifestyles."

In its 48,800 sq.-ft. exhibit on the main floor in the middle of Oakland Hall at Cobo Center, Chrysler Group will feature more than 100 Mopar accessories and performance parts throughout its display of 57 vehicles. Customized vehicles will include the Chrysler 200, Dodge Durango, Fiat 500, Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition, and the Ram Outdoorsman.

Also in the Ram display, Mopars Ram Runner - which was first shown at the 2010 Jeep Safari in Moab, Utah - will be prominently displayed in the back of a Ram 5500 Chassis Cab race hauler. Since its debut, the Ram Runner video has generated more than 100,000 views on social media sites. Mopar announced today that production for the Ram Runner parts package will begin in March.

In addition to Moparized vehicles, the company will also feature live demos in its Accessorization Station. To show ease of installation, Mopar accessories will be installed on the 2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition.

"Our goal is to show consumers how easy it is to personalize and accessorize their ride," said Gorlier. "And like we did with the introduction of our Mopar Ram Runner, we will gauge reaction to accessories that we plan to offer in the future."

Following is a selection of featured Moparized vehicles that will be on display in the Chrysler Group exhibit:

Mopar Ram Runner

The Mopar Ram Runner, inspired by Baja-style desert racing, is a 4x4 unlike any other Ram. The rigors of off-road racing require large tires, plenty of ground clearance, extreme durability and a sophisticated suspension system capable of withstanding tremendous impact. These features are combined into a package that is stable at speed and rock-solid in the corners. Inspired by trophy trucks, steel front fenders and rear bed-sides are replaced with fiberglass, allowing tremendous suspension articulation with zero interference.

Suspension
Stage 2 Ram Runner Suspension Kit, Part Number (PN): P5155662, Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP): $13,270 (production begins in March)

Stage 1 Pre-Runner Suspension Kit, PN: P5155258, MSRP: $3,129 (not on display vehicle, but currently available through Mopar)

Exterior (production begins in March: fits Stage 1, Stage 2 or available separately)
Front Ram Runner bumper, PN: P5155663, MSRP: $1,250
Tubular tire carrier, PN: P5155664, MSRP: $1,010
Front Ram Runner fenders, PN: P5155665), MSRP: $1,020
Rear Ram Runner fenders, PN: P5155666, MSRP: $1,350
Sport performance hood, PN: 82211065AD, MSRP: $978 (available now)
Cold-air intake system, PN: 77070023, MSRP: $466 (available now)
Cat-back exhaust system, PN: P5155280, MSRP: $1,135

2012 Fiat 500
The Fiat brand marks its return to the North American market with the 2012 Fiat 500 (Cinquecento). With its beautiful Italian styling, timeless functionality, efficient design and innovative technology - the same attributes that made the original version a timeless icon - the new Fiat 500 is relevant for an entirely new generation of drivers.

Following is a list of Mopar accessories that will be featured on the 2012 Fiat 500:

Door-sill guards with 500 logo
Roof/hood decals feature a double-blue stripe
Katzkin leather interior, black with blue accents
Carbon fiber-style hand brake
Carbon fiber-style shift knob with leather boot
Rear window-mount rack
Snowboard carrier
Wheels, black gloss
Chromed exhaust tip
Chromed mirror covers
Chromed fuel door
Chromed grille surround, front and back
Wheel center caps
Key fob cover
Strut tower brace

2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition is based on the Jeep Wrangler Rubicon model and features dark Rubicon wheels in a high-gloss Mineral Gray. The vehicles exterior color is black and features Call of Duty: Black Ops graphics on the roof and front quarter panels. The vehicle delivers legendary Jeep capability, aggressive 32-inch off-road tires, live axles with locking differentials in the front and rear, and a two-speed transfer case.

Following is a list of Mopar accessories that will be featured on the Jeep Wrangler Call of Duty: Black Ops Edition:

Grab handles with coat hook (2), PN: 82207660AB, MSRP: $33
Warn 9.5ti XP Winch, PN: 82209325AB, MSRP: $1,425
Black door-sill guards, PN: 82210104, MSRP: $25
Slush mats, PN: 82210164AB, MSRP: $48
Tail lamp guards, PN: 82210270AB, MSRP: $132
Skid plate (front axle), PN: P5155353, MSRP: $299
Rock rails, PN: 82210574AC, MSRP: $572
Black fuel-filler door, PN: 82210609, MSRP: $111
Jeep emblem, PN: 82211202, MSRP: $7
Front off-road bumper, PN: P5155352, MSRP: $1,620
2-inch lift kit, PN: P5155207, MSRP: $1,510
Tube doors, PN: B5179635, MSRP: $505

2011 Ram Outdoorsman

The Ram Outdoorsman is specifically designed for hunters, fishermen, campers and boaters. The truck features standard trailer-towing upgrades, interior and exterior lighting enhancements, all-terrain tires, and a rugged exterior appearance.

Following is a list of Mopar accessories that will be featured on the Ram Outdoorsman:

Spray-on bedliner, sales code XMF, $450
20-inch x 9-inch six-spoke polished forged wheels (4), PN: 82211021, MSRP:$2,244
Hood, PN: 82211065AD, MSRP: $978
Tubular side steps, PN: 82211502AE, MSRP: $401
Rambox Holsters (2), PN 822122359, MSRP: $410
Sport utility bars, PN 82211185, MSRP: $260
Bed-mounted cargo basket, PN: TC690MOA, MSRP: $346
Cargo basket net, PN: 82209422AB, MSRP: $44.85
Front Heavy-duty rubber splash guards, PN: 82212017AB, MSRP: $41.65
Rear Heavy-dutry rubber splash guards, PN:82212019AB, MSRP: $35.10
Bed step, PN: 82212091, MSRP: $272
Glovebox lock, PN: 82211490, MSRP: $19.60
Storage bin locks, PN: 82211653, MSRP: $118
Nine-inch DVD rear-seat video, PN: 82211617AB, MSRP: $949

2011 Chrysler 200 Super S by Mopar

Chrysler introduces the new 200 mid-size sedan. Offering consumers exceptional craftsmanship inside and out, a refined and spirited driving experience, innovative technology, an abundance of standard safety features and an extraordinary level of standard content, the 2011 Chrysler 200 is an exciting alternative for customers that want style and substance, all at a surprising value.

Mopar lowered the car three inches and created its own interpretation of the Chrysler 200 while adding the following accessories:

Black and Tungsten paint scheme
Gloss black grille surround
Recessed wing badge
Gloss black mesh grille
Gloss black lower mesh grille
Fog light bezel with light bar
Brake induction openings
Vented hood
Lower chin spoiler
19-inch wheels
Aero sill cladding
Mopar ghost decal
Gloss black belt molding
Gloss black mirror cap
Mopar Katzkin leather seats
Decklid spoiler
Tungsten painted license plate visor
Rear valance
Bright exhaust tip

2011 Dodge Durango Citadel "Black & Tan"

Dodge views the new Citadel as the ultimate expression of the 2011 Dodge Durango, the perfect canvas for the distinguished SUV enthusiast. First shown at the 2010 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show, the vehicle was developed as a representation of the current trend in tasteful customization.

This special edition of the Citadel utilizes the clean lines of the 2011 Dodge Durango. Its stunning, shiny black paint color is the perfect backdrop for the evolution of the modern urban SUV. Its 22-inch custom-forged aluminum Super Alloy wheels are highly polished with hyper-silver accents. The Citadel also features an exclusive chrome-textured grille and polished stainless steel tips of the Mopar/Corsa custom exhaust. The Citadel "Black & Tan", riding on Pirelli tires, was dropped with Mopar lowering springs, complementing its stunning new stance.

The shiny black exterior is matched on the inside with an all-new interior, crafted by the new Chrysler interior studio that is bent on redefining American quality and unparalleled comfort. The timeless design features sculpted soft panels throughout with world-class fit and finish, complete with the liberal use of premium materials and three rows of gorgeous Nappa leather seats. The new "Black & Tan" interior combo was inspired by some of the finest super cars in the world.

Following is a list of Mopar accessories that will be featured on the Dodge Durango Citadel "Black and Tan":

Bike carrier, PN: TH912RWY, MSRP: $192
Chromed tube steps, PN: 82212298, MSRP: $549
Kayak carrier, PN: TC883KAY, MSRP: $157
Gold EVTS Service Package, PN: 82212613, MSRP: $249
Uconnect® Web, PN: 82211856, MSRP: $499

Mopar-First Features
Mopar has introduced numerous industry-first features including:

  • Camper trailers: first to introduce off-road camper trailers
  • Vehicle-information smartphone apps: first to introduce smartphone vehicle-information applications, a new channel of communication with consumers
  • Electronic owner manuals: first to introduce traditional owner manuals in a DVD and brief user-guide format
  • Electronic Vehicle Tracking System (EVTS): first to introduce new vehicle tracking system that sends owner a text when vehicle is driven too fast or too far based on set parameters
  • 2011 Challenger Drag Pak: first to introduce a 500-plus cubic-inch V-10 drag-race package car
  • WiFi: first to offer customers the ability to make their vehicle a wireless hot spot
  • WiTECH: first to support vehicle diagnosis and software updates leveraging off-the-shelf personal computers and a dedicated wireless tool network

About the Mopar Brand
Mopar is Chrysler Group LLCs service, parts and customer-care brand.

Mopar distributes approximately 280,000 parts and accessories in more than 90 countries and is the source for all original-equipment parts for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles. Mopar parts are unique in that they are engineered and tested with the same teams that create factory-authorized vehicle specifications for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and Ram Truck vehicles - a direct connection that no other aftermarket parts company can provide. A complete list of Mopar accessories and performance parts is available at www.mopar.com

More than 70 Years of Mopar
When Chrysler bought Dodge in 1928, the need for a dedicated parts manufacturer, supplier and distribution system to support the growing enterprise led to the formation of the Chrysler Motor Parts Corporation (CMPC) in 1929.

Mopar (a simple contraction of the words Motor and PARts) was trademarked for a line of antifreeze products in 1937. It also was widely used as a moniker for the CMPC. The Mopar brand made its mark in the 1960s-the muscle-car era. The Chrysler Corporation built race-ready Dodge and Plymouth "package cars" equipped with special high-performance parts. Mopar carried a line of "special parts" for super stock drag racers and developed its racing parts division called Mopar Performance Parts to enhance speed and handling for both road and racing use.