2013 Ford Fiesta

Posted By Syed Shoaib Ahmed

2013 Ford Fiesta  

Small cars don't need to be bland--the 2013 Ford Fiesta proves that with a saucy look and pert handling.  

2013 Ford Fiesta

   

The Ford Fiesta isn't the cheapest car you can buy, nor is it the smallest. It's not even a gas-mileage zealot, when you consider the ultra-high mileage achieved by some other subcompacts now bracing us all for stiff new fuel-economy regulations.
Instead, the Fiesta is smaller, zippier, and less expensive than the average Focus, without losing its focus on driving fun and features. It's tiny inside for sure--but it's no penalty box.
The Fiesta looks stylish and even a bit racy, with an urban-runabout element that had been missing from Ford's U.S. lineup, and in this respect you mostly get exactly what you see. With impressive steering and handling and a nimble, maneuverable feel that's better than most softened, numbed appliances its size, the Fiesta is securely on the fun-to-drive side of the ledger. Meanwhile the Fiesta's powertrains are nothing special; the 120-hp, 1.6-liter four, for 2,600 pounds, is quick enough, although we're not big fans of the PowerShift transmission that you need to opt for if you don't like shifting gears.

 2013 Ford Fiesta

 

Great first impressions are the Fiesta's specialty; it has well-coordinated colors and textures inside, and it'll impress as well above its price class at first look. But there are many of the typical small-car sacrifices--like a bit too much engine noise in some situations, and a choppy ride on some freeway surfaces. The narrow body and tight backseat whittle down its usefulness for long road trips, too, though we like the added versatility of the hatchback models. Then there's the Fiesta's instrument-panel layout, which clumps audio controls into an odd array of slanted buttons.

 2013 Ford Fiesta

 

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2014 Acura MDX

Posted By Shoaib Ahmed
2014 Acura MDX

The 2014 Acura MDX is more focused than ever on its mission of keeping the entire family comfortable, content, and entertained—and yes, that still includes the driver

   

2014 Acura MDX

Those who want a utility vehicle that's sensible and practical yet also luxurious and enjoyable to drive should place the 2014 Acura MDX near the top of their shopping list. For for more than a decade, Acura has honed the MDX into a remarkably sharp-looking, responsive-driving vehicle that doesn't include a lot of compromise.
The only thing—seemingly minor to most shoppers—that you forgo with the MDX is off-road ability, or the appearance that you're ready to head out to the Rubicon. Furthermore, MDX buyers can dodge the reliability issues and depreciation that have affected some rival models.
Premium-brand, three-row crossovers like the 2014 Acura MDX can make impressive, high-class alternatives to minivans for large families, and it seems that the new 2014 MDX takes a step in that direction as well. With jiggered second- and third-row seats, a new fully flat-folding second row, a lower passenger floor, and a lower cargo floor, the 2014 model takes a package that's about the same size and makes it more useful inside. While the current identity (and future) of Acura’s sedans like the RLX, TL, TSX, and ILX feels as nebulous as that next corner in the pouring rain, the MDX is clearer and more focused than ever.
Design-wise, there are no big surprises. The 2014 MDX takes to a shape that's a little more sport-wagon influenced, perhaps, and mates that with interiors that are a little warmer. The sleeker profile, more curvaceous sheetmetal, and some new, precise front-end details serve to give it a leaner look overall. Our editors are split on whether Acura’s ‘beak’ front end works, but we think that it’s much more flattering on the brand’s utility vehicles—and this new MDX—than on its sedans. Crisp matte-chrome details and ‘jewel-eye’ LED headlamps altogether gives this model a streamlined, elegant look. Inside, Acura has paid much more attention to properly coordinated materials and trims, and it shows.

2014 Acura MDX

The 2014 MDX is powered by a 290-horsepower version of Acura’s always-excellent 3.5-liter V-6 engine—now fed with direct injection and kosher with the full suite of Honda’s so-called Earth Dreams technologies. Across the lineup, it’s mated to a six-speed automatic transmission that includes steering-wheel paddle shifters. The so-called Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system that’s available in the MDX (yes, front-wheel drive is now standard, if that’s all you need) provides more all-weather traction, and even a little more cornering control in some situations, and it can vary front-wheel torque distribution from 90 percent down to 30 percent (70 percent to the rear)—or up to a hundred percent to either the left or right wheels.

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Posted By Syed Shoaib Ahmed

2014 Chevrolet Equinox

 

 

2014 Chevrolet Equinox

Quick Take

The 2014 Chevrolet Equinox is every bit as solid, spacious, and well-equipped as cost-conscious families could expect -- and far more quiet and refined than many other models without a luxury badge.

 Compact-to-mid-size crossover vehicles like the Chevrolet Equinox have, in a lot of ways, become the family sedans of today. That's because tey offer up more of what matters to parents and families—like plenty of flexible seating and cargo space, plus impressive maneuverability and reasonably good fuel efficiency. Among them, the 2014 Chevrolet Equinox is one of the better picks; whether purposed for carpool duty, weekend family getaways, or commuting and errands, it's fully up for such versatile use—with an affordable price, a spacious interior, plenty of safety and tech features, and more refinement than you might expect.

2014 Chevrolet Equinox

With crisp, somewhat sporty styling, and proportions that line up partway between Chevy's trucks and cars, the Equinox looks like it should: handsome but inoffensive. Inside, the look is a little jazzier, with vents flanking the radio and climate controls and more of the look that Chevrolet cars have recently been given.

Our recommendation for most Equinox shoppers remains the fuel-efficient (and lower cost) four-cylinder models. With 182 horsepower, the 2.4-liter four idles smoothly, albeit with a somewhat clattery direct-injection sound, and once underway it's agreeable and unobtrusive. The combination comes with a stellar 32-mpg highway rating, too. The Equinox doesn't track as confidently on the highway as we'd like, but this is first and foremost a family vehicle. Yes, the 3.6-liter V-6 is strong and smooth, but it's also far thirstier in real-world driving -- and frankly more than most cost-conscious moms and dads are going to need.

The 2014 Chevy Equinox feels designed for the ins and outs of family use, from the seating layout to the up-close details. There's an excellent carlike driving position, while the cross-stitched dual-tone perforated leather in top LTZ models feels quite luxurious. Back seats have enough space for two adults to sprawl out into, with decent legroom, and the seatbacks are adjustable for rake. And there's space for smaller items, weekend finds, and grocery bags between the two deep cargo wells in back, the deep center console, the retractable cargo cover, and stretchy net.

2014 Chevrolet Equinox 

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Alfa Romeo Giulietta 2014

Posted By Syed Shoaib Ahmed

Renewed style, new engines and more technological content to continue playing its starring role. The Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 will contribute to consolidating the outstanding sales performance the model has obtained so far: from in mid-2010 to date, more than 212,000 units have been ordered worldwide.

New 150 HP 2.0 JTDM 2 engine

The new 150 HP 2.0 JTDM engine is making its first appearance with the 2014 range. It is equipped with the second-generation MultiJet injection system that both optimises engine combustion in all operating conditions and ensures reduction in fuel consumption and noise at the same time.

Using a small-sized turbocharger means delivering the highest torque in the segment at low rpm (380 Nm at 1750 rpm) and maximum running flexibility.

The heart of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 2.0 JTDM 2 engine is without a doubt the third generation Common Rail injection system that uses innovative injectors able to control the amount of diesel injected into the combustion chamber with utmost precision with a particularly quick and flexible injection sequence thanks to the balanced hydraulic servo valve.

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

More in detail, up to eight injections per stroke are possible together with strategies that optimise the increasingly advanced combustion, such as the Injection Rate Shaping (IRS) system which involves two consecutive injections so close together in .time as to generate a continuous and modulated fuel supply into the cylinders. In this way the combustion process is improved, all to the benefit of quieter operation and particulate and nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions. Furthermore, the new injection system is even simpler and more reliable because the injectors have a simpler structure with 40% fewer components

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Alfa Romeo Giulietta

Finally, it should be noted that with the new 2014 range all available engines have been updated to comply with the 'Euro 5 +' (Euro 6 ready) standard.

Uconnect with 5" or 6.5" RadioNav touchscreen

Designed to enrich the driving experience and perfectly integrated in the design of the car, the innovative Uconnect multimedia device is available with a 5" or 6.5" touch-screen with satellite navigation system and voice commands for easy control of several multimedia sources and outputs. The Uconnect system lets you access all the main functions, from the analogue and digital radio (DAB) - in markets where the optional is sold - through to all the main multimedia resources (mediaplayer, iPod, iPhone, smartphone) which can be connected via USB port or Aux-in socket.

The system also includes an advanced Bluetooth interface to access extra functions, such as phone call management or reading received SMS text messages via text-to-speech technology, innovative Audio Streaming system that reproduces music files and web radio stations directly from a smartphone in streaming via Bluetooth on the UConnect device. Finally, with the Uconnect Nav with 6.5" touch-screen, the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 customer can rely on the satellite navigation function with 3D bird's eye view maps and progressive route guidance or the text-to-speech function for entering the destination address using voice commands.

The new infotainment system will be available, on request, on the entire Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 range.

Exterior

Moonlight Pearl, Anodizzato Blue and Bronze: three new liveries to enhance the dynamic lines of a model that is a blend of sportiness and elegance. The new look of the front grille and the chrome-plated frame of the foglights renew its front. This is the starting point for the design of the entire car, which combines an energetic personality with a distinctly elegant form. The front headlights have DRL with LED technology and a day light function for maximum active safety. The innovative rear lights use LED technology in the same way, which serves not only a stylish purpose but also preventive safety.

Finally, the three new alloy wheels (16'', 17'' and 18'') clearly highlight the profile of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014. The side windows recall the appearance of a coupé and emphasise the dynamism and fluidity of the shapes, thanks also the concealed rear door handles. The ribs on the vehicle sides elongate the car while the clean lines which end at the rear accentuate the angular shape of the car body.

Interior

Attention to detail and high quality materials chosen to represent the ultimate expression of Italian style. What particularly stand out are a new door panel and handle and the brand new insert on the central console and dashboard. All elements are treated with uniform scratch-proof paint and the trims are homogeneous in colour and materials. The result is a superior quality environment that welcomes passengers into a warm and enveloping atmosphere. The seats and steering wheel are new, too, and further highlight the perceived quality and on-board comfort.

In particular, making their début on the Quadrifoglio Verde version are the new specific sports seats upholstered in black leather/Alcantara with contrasting stitching with electro-welded logo on the backrest (also available on the QV Sportiva Pack).

Now the Progression version offers the black/anthracite grey fabric, while the Giulietta MY 2014 Distinctive customer can choose between two colour combinations for the fabric upholstery: black/tobacco or anthracite grey. The Exclusive version comes with leather/fabric upholstery that can be in the shade of either black/anthracite grey or tobacco/anthracite grey. All the upholstery is available in top quality leather in the shades of red, tobacco or black on request.

Sporty design and a new form which refers to the Alfa Romeo grille also for the steering wheel, now characterised by a aluminium insert, black, white or red stitching - depending on the interiors and trim levels - and an upholstery in top quality leather made with special foam that ensures a safe and immediate grip. Finally, the luggage compartment has been renewed with a specific black trim for the entire volume (bottom, sides and behind the rear seats). The storage compartment on the left of the steering wheel, the upper glove compartment on the dashboard and the USB port starting from today placed close to the DNA selector - so its use is more convenient and immediate - complete the new features inside the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014.

Driving satisfaction

Alfa Romeo Giulietta has assumed a place in the tradition of the best Alfa Romeo models, drawing on its heritage of dynamic performance, without compromising on efficiency and convenience in everyday use. The secret behind this performance is continuous technological research, which finds its utmost expression in the Giulietta. This is demonstrated by the "Compact" architecture - created with high-resistance materials which allowed the weight of the structure to be limited - in addition to the Dual Pinion active steering and the sophisticated suspension configurations (MacPherson at the front and the advanced Multilink at the rear). Furthermore, driving satisfaction and comfort adapt to meet every customer's specific needs thanks to the Alfa DNA selector, a device that customises the vehicle's behaviour to suit different road conditions and driving styles. The new architecture of the Alfa Romeo Giulietta was designed to integrate the vehicle's different systems and exploit them to the full, thus emphasising the three set-up functions (Dynamic, Normal and All Weather) available through the Alfa DNA selector. The device, fitted as standard on the entire range, is designed to modify the operating parameters of the engine, gearbox, steering system and Q2 electronic differential, in addition to the behaviour logic of the Electronic Stability Control system (ESC).

Comfort, passenger room and greater soundproofing

Outstanding quality of construction impressive on every level for an excellent standard of comfort. The longitudinal and vertical filtering capacity of the suspension ensures high driving comfort while important technical refinements - such as specific interventions on bumpers, wheel arch, pedal unit and luggage compartment - make the Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 even quieter and more enjoyable to drive.

Comfort is another strong point: the quality of the materials used for the dashboard and the ergonomics of the interior space in general contribute to a great on-board experience. There hasn't been any compromise on load capacity either, thanks to a luggage compartment with a very regular shape which can be exploited to the full, with a width of 1023 mm between the wheel arches and a maximum capacity of 350 litres, in line with that of its main rivals.

Efficiency: the optimal performance to consumption-emissions ratio

The Giulietta's exceptional efficiency is confirmed by the excellent performance to consumption ratio, a value which is further increased by the latest-generation Alfa TCT twin dry clutch automatic transmission. The innovative transmission ensures greater efficiency and driving comfort and a sportier feeling than the automatic transmissions with torque converter. Suffice it to say that the Giulietta MY 2014 powered by the 170 HP 1.4 TB MultiAir with TCT achieves outstanding results in its segment, improving on the already impressive standard set by the manual gearbox both in acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h and fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

The transmission works in either all-automatic or sequential mode. The "up and down" positions of the precise and ergonomic gear lever are managed manually by the driver, who can also choose to combine it with the "shift paddles" on the steering wheel. The driver can also customise his car's character using the Alfa DNA driving selector to enhance its features of comfort, performance, safety and efficiency.

Safety

Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014: one of the safest cars in its category that turns the tables for those who think that safety detracts from performance. In addition to the undisputed dynamic features of the model, all versions fit plenty of standard equipment, such as six airbags, ESP, three-point seat belts with double pretensioner, anti-whiplash system and third load line for excellent passenger compartment protection.

These are followed - again as standard - by certain systems which are unique in this category, such as Alfa DNA with electronic Q2 differential, the system which allows torque to be transferred to the outer wheel when cornering, to prevent understeer at the front, with benefits for the car in terms of traction, safety and driveability. And there's more: DST, which prompts drivers to correct their driving in the event of an emergency through impulses at the wheel. Finally, the Pre-fill system guarantees maximum promptness during emergency braking. All these features translate into an extremely high active and passive safety level. The Giulietta earned five stars in crash tests according to the stricter parameters introduced by Euro NCAP from its launch, scoring 97% for adult passenger protection, one of the highest scores in the category.

2014 range

5 trim levels (Impression, Progression, Distinctive, Exclusive and Quadrifoglio Verde) - depending on the countries where marketed - to offer safety, comfort and driving pleasure to the various Alfa Romeo Giulietta MY 2014 customers.

All the devices linked to active and passive safety are fitted as standard on the entire range. The standard equipment of the Impression trim level includes: 6 airbags, the Alfa DNA system (with Q2 electronic differential and DST), and the innovative ESC (including ASR and Hill Holder). The manual climate control system and tyre pressure monitoring sensor complete the standard equipment.

The second level, Progression, proves to be an ideal choice for those looking for more on-board comfort with the added rear electrical windows and CD/MP3 sound system with dual tuner function and controls on the steering wheel.

The Distinctive version adds: 16" alloy wheels, leather steering wheel with radio controls, fog lights, dual zone automatic climate control system, new seats upholstered with quality fabric, front armrest with storage compartment and the elegant chrome-plated insert (chrome line) that frames the side windows and refrigerated storage compartment.

The Exclusive trim level is at the top in terms of comfort and technology and offers: leather/fabric upholstery, 17" alloy wheels, rear armrest, lumbar front seat adjustment, electrically folding door mirrors, rear parking sensors, electrochromic rear view mirror and rain and dusk sensors.

The range is completed by the 235 HP Alfa Romeo Giulietta 1750 TBi Quadrifoglio Verde (four-leafed clover), a legendary symbol which has competed on tracks all over the world. Equipped exclusively with the highest-performing engine in the range, the version is distinguished by its thoroughbred sports design, combined with 17'' (optional 18'') wheels, guaranteeing segment-leading driving pleasure and surprisingly limited fuel consumption and emissions for this power rating. The Giulietta thus reinterprets the "Quadrifoglio Verde" with a modern touch, combining the utmost driving pleasure with greater environmental awareness for an eco-conscious and environmentally-friendly sportiness.

Packs

Style, Visibility, Comfort, Lusso, Premium, Business, Sport and QV Sportiva: many specific packs available depending on the market to further customise your Alfa Romeo Giulietta QV MY 2014. The QV Sportiva Pack is designed for customers who want a car with exciting performance, top-level technological equipment and great looks. Inspired by the legendary Quadrifoglio Verde, the QV Sportiva Pack includes: a sporty low ride, new 18" alloy wheels and 225/40 tyres, side skirts, oversized Brembo brakes with red calipers, dark finish headlights and rear Privacy windows. The same sporty imprint is evident inside, where the dark-coloured passenger compartment includes: aluminium pedal unit, leather steering wheel with white stitching (or red with leather seats), aluminium kick plate with Quadrifoglio Verde logo and a burnished brushed aluminium insert on the dashboard. The seats are available either in leather and Alcantara or full grain leather.

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