Friday, February 27, 2009
Kia Soul "Hamster" commercial
Pretty cute little spot by Kia. My question is how did the hamster wheels get to where they are in the first place?
Jalopnik drives the Nissan Cube
Modified Yaris at Melborne Auto Show
The folks over at CarScoop have a few photos of a Toyota Yaris that's been quite extensively modified for the 2009 Melbourne Auto Show.
The black, white, and gray camouflaged Yaris has a host of modifications (it even has as Micro Image sticker!) including Rays Engineering wheels, TRD stuff, Exedy clutch, and a lot more!
LINK
Toyota unveils modified RAV4 and Yaris at Melbourne Auto Show (CarScoop)
Battle of the boxes
The folks over at Popular Mechanics have compared the Nissan Cube S, the Scion xB, and the Kia Soul Sport in a "300-mile fuel-economy test drive." The Cube had the CVT transmission; the xB and Soul were 5-speed manuals. Interesting mini reviews of each vehicle.LINK
2009 Nissan Cube vs. 2010 Kia Soul vs. 2009 Scion xB (Popular Mechanics)
Thursday, February 26, 2009
"The mother of all bird craps" on our new car
So a bird crapped on our brand-new black Suzuki SX4 and Thule ski rack. Judging by the mess, it must've been a tarydactyl. What the hell did that thing eat?
I took out some Meguiar's Quick Detailer, but it didn't do squat. I let it soak it a bit, and it still didn't do much. I took out my Mother's California Gold Claybar system, and it started to come out just a bit. I had to work at this "crap" like crazy!
I finally got it off with a combination of various polishes and waxes, but wouldn't you know it: The paint is now faded and slightly scratched where the shit was.
Famous last words: "That'll buff right out" (hopefully it will).
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Suzuki SX4 lift kit and accessories
If people modify the suspension on their subcompacts, it's typically to lower the car. However, the folks at Utah-based Rocky Road Outfitters have come up with a lift kit for the all-wheel drive Suzuki SX4.
The kit consists of metal spacers for the front and rear struts and camber bolts. The system uses the stock springs so the original ride quality is maintained. Plus, everything is powdercoated for a durable, long-lasting finish. Instructions are included and installation is apparently very simple. The lift kit has a lifetime warranty, too.
In addition to the lift kit, Rocky Road has also designed a set of rock sliders (at right) specifically for the SX4. They help protect the lower side panels of the vehicle from objects such as rocks, stumps, and other hazards.According to the company, the SX4 lifts have been very popular outside of the U.S., but are just now catching on in the States. I think these accessories are pretty darn cool.
Rocky Road Outfitters has been making off-road products for a variety of vehicles for a number of years, and is well known in the Suzuki off-road community.
LINK
Rocky Road Outfitters' Suzuki SX4 Lift and Accessories
SX4 lift kit (SX4club.com)
Nissan Cube pricing offically announced
Yes, it's official: The Cube will start below $14K. That's for the base model with a six-speed manual trans. Looks like the special-edition, top-of-the-line Krom and 1.8SL will come exclusively with the CVT (I wonder if the manual will be optional?).
Here's the full press release from Nissan:
Nissan Announces Pricing on All-New 2009 cube®
- “Reserve Your cube®” Pre-launch Program Goes Live Today on NissanUSA.com -
FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Feb. 24, 2009) - Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced complete pricing on the 2009 Nissan cube®, which goes on sale in early May at Nissan dealers nationwide. In conjunction with the pricing announcement, a new “Reserve Your cube®” program, which allows customers to research and reserve the cube® of their choice, launches today at www.NissanUSA.com/cube.
The dramatically styled Nissan cube® has a starting Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP)* of $13,990 for the cube® 1.8 equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. Three other models are also offered: cube® 1.8 S, priced at $14,690 with the 6-speed manual and $15,690 with the Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission); cube® 1.8 SL, priced at $16,790; and the cube® 1.8 Krōm specialty
vehicle, priced at $19,370. Both the cube® 1.8 SL and cube® 1.8 Krōm come with standard Xtronic CVT®.
Available cube® technology includes the Nissan Intelligent KeyTM with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six upgraded speakers, XM® Satellite Radio (XM® subscription required, sold separately) and Interface System for iPod®.
In addition, cube will be available with more than 40 individual accessories, ranging from a unique 20-color interior illumination kit and “shag dash topper” to aerodynamic body kits and custom 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels - allowing cube® owners to personalize their vehicles to reflect their own tastes and personalities.
“Cube has generated tremendous buzz for Nissan - it’s fun, functional and it’s an ideal extension of cube owners’ lifestyle,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division, NNA. “Cube offers features that you just can’t put a price on - clever design, inviting interior, ease of driving and outstanding quality. No other car in its segment comes close to cube.”
“Reserve Your cube”
To help consumers navigate the expected strong demand for the new cube® at launch, Nissan is making cube® inventory information available online as part of a “Reserve Your cube®” program. Accessed through NissanUSA.com/cube, buyers can view pricing, colors, trim and equipment available in their local areas, then contact a dealer to reserve a specific vehicle.
“The ‘Reserve Your cube®” program will help facilitate conversations between customers and dealers, helping match cube® and owner in a timely manner,” said Castignetti. “We’re excited about the cube® launch and want to make the buying process as hassle-free as owning one.”
About the 2009 Nissan cube®
The 2009 Nissan cube® is designed to meet the practical needs of today’s active, environmentally aware drivers, providing a small footprint with a large interior space. The front-wheel drive cube® is built on Nissan’s proven B-platform and is available with a standard 1.8-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine and a choice of Nissan’s advanced, smooth shifting Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission) or 6-speed manual transmission.
Cube®’s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection. Cube® also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist
(BA).
Along with the long list of standard features on the cube® 1.8, the cube® 1.8 S adds body-colored outside mirrors, premium grade fabric, cruise control, cargo area cover and more. The cube® 1.8 SL adds standard CVT, 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, auto on/off headlights, Automatic Temperature Control, Interface System for iPod®, six speakers and more. The uniquely equipped cube® 1.8 Krōm includes an exclusive integrated body design, Krōm 16-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, sporty interior treatment, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer, Xtronic CVT® and much more.
About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan’s operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program 2010, whose key priorities are reducing CO2 emissions, cutting other emissions and increasing recycling. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.NissanUSA.com and www.infiniti.com.
# # #
* MSRP excludes applicable tax, title and license fees. Dealer sets actual price. Prices and specs are subject to change without notice. Nissan cube® 1.8 available through dealer order, limited dealer inventory in stock.
Kia No. 3 Concept
I saw that Kia is releasing a new subcompact concept called "No 3." I think it looks pretty darn good, although from the angle in the above photo, it looks like certain styling cues are quite similar to the upcoming Ford Fiesta. However, the more I look at them, the less similar they really look.
Not a heck of a lot of info about it No 3; it's debuting at the Geneva Auto Show next week.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Nostalgic Subcompact: Subaru Justy
Okay, so it's a nostalgic subcompact in the U.S. However, the Justy lives on in other markets. In fact, today Autoblog had a story about a new edition of the Justy with stripes and other goodies (thanks for the link, Craig), which made me think about this old little mountain goat of a vehicle (see below for a link to the Autoblog story).
You may or may not remember the Subaru Justy. It was a tiny FWD or 4WD subcompact offered during the late 1980s and early 1990s. It had either a tiny carburated 1.2-liter 66-horsepower three-banger, or a fuel-injected 73-horsepower 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine, and got pretty good mileage for what it was (32/37 for the carbed FWD; 25/29 for the fuelie 4WD). It also went the way of the
The second generation Justy available out side of the States from 1995-2002, was an AWD version of the Suzuki Cultis/Swift, AKA the Geo Metro in the U.S. It was powered by a 1.3 liter gas engine. I photographed the one at the right while in Germany in 2006 .
The third-generation Justy known as the Justy G3X (2003-2006), was based on the second-generation Suzuki Ignis, aka the Chevrolet Cruze, and had a 98-horsepower 1.5-liter four cylinder engine.
The latest iteration of the Justy, released in 2007, is a rebadged Daihatsu LINKS
Subaru Justy: Now with stripes (Autoblog)
2009 Subaru Justy (Subaru UK)
Subaru Justy Forums
Subaru Justy Wikipedia page
Sunday, February 22, 2009
New car: Suzuki SX4 AWD
We did it—we pulled the trigger on an '09 Suzuki SX4 AWD with a 5-speed! That now makes two subcompacts in the driveway. Vancouver Suzuki (Vancouver, WA) gave us an excellent deal on the car; one we couldn't refuse. This was a dealer that wanted to sell some cars!
Anyway, we hope we enjoy it for a long time, and that it's a solid, reliable vehicle. I can't wait to get it up into the snow!
Car shopping day 2: Lots-o-test drives
Yesterday was day two of our car shopping extravaganza, and we drove and shopped a lot.
First stop was the Toyota dealer just to drive a base Yaris sedan. Since I already have a Yaris, I know the ins and outs of the vehicle, which I liked. My wife drove the car, and liked it. Drove well, decent interior, nice stereo, etc. Price was $15,400 + $750 cash back off the top. Not too shabby. On to the next dealership.
Next stop was Suzuki to look at SX4s. I really like the looks of these vehicles, and like the way they drive, too. Power is pretty good, interior is decent, and you get a lot for your money, including the all-wheel drive we'd like. However, the price was higher than we wanted ($17,100-ish). The salesman asked what kind of price we were looking to get, so we told him. Amazingly, he was able to come in exactly where we needed to be, which was just about the same price as a Yaris sedan (if not a bit less, amazingly). This was a game changer, since we didn't think we could actually afford this vehicle.
Onto the VW dealer to look at a used Jetta 2.5. Unfortunately, the vehicle we wanted to see (I scoped it out the day before) was sold. It was an '08 For $12,998 with under 10K on the odometer. However, they had another '08, same S-model trim, but lower miles. They wanted $16,888 for it and didn't want to come down much. We told them where we wanted to be, and they just toyed around with us. We told them that we had other cars to drive, but would like to know how much they'd be willing to let the car go for. Of course, they wouldn't do it because we "weren't committed to buying the car," and blah, blah, blah. These guys didn't do much to help out the stereotypical "used car salesman" image, and consequently, I probably won't ever set foot back in that dealer. Plus, I was hungry, and losing my temper. On to Subway.
After lunch, we went to look at another VW Jetta 2.5, also a 2008, but it was a special-edition version with leather, alloys, upgraded VW stereo, moonroof, etc. A very nice vehicle, and the guy just wanted to get it off the lot (he was a private dealer/broker who dealt mostly in Audis, BMWs, and exotics—there was an awesome Lamborghini Gallardo for $125K there). He was very up front with us and said he just wanted to sell it; he'd had it for three weeks and would sell it for his cost of $13K (he showed us the paperwork). The car drove very nice, plenty of power, etc. However, I'm a bit gunshy of VWs, to be honest. My wife, however, loves them. It did have a few small scratches, and only had a valet key, so a new set of keys would have to be made (the vehicle was a repo).
Next stop: Honda. We test drove a 2009 base-model Fit first. A very nice subcompact, to be sure. Great interior, very good driving dynamics, and a good price for what it was. Love the magic seats. Shifter was accurate, but the throws were pretty long. If we already had an AWD vehicle, the Fit would've been a top choice. We also drove a new Civic, which drove ... well ... like our old Civic, but nicer in all respects. The dealer actually had a brand-new 2007 EX coupe he was willing to part with for a great price. I'm not 100% sure how that happens, but it was a fantastic deal. Unfortunately, it was a two door, and we really want a sedan.
We went and took a second look at the Suzuki SX4, and then called it a day.
After all is said and done, it looks like we'll probably be picking up a 2009 SX4 either today or tomorrow! I'm very excited, as is my wife.
Friday, February 20, 2009
LOL @ "Market Adjustment" charges
People aren't spending.
The auto industry is in the shitter.
The market has hit an 11-year low.
So what should a dealership do to make some cash? How about tack on a "market adjustment" cost of $2,000 onto new cars. Yeah, that'll encourage folks to buy!
The Honda dealer I went to today had, I kid you not, about 25 brand-new Honda Fits on the lot (their Web site claims to have 60 in stock). However, every damn one of them had a "market adjustment" of nearly $2,000, IIRC.
A Kia dealer I went to today had the all-new Soul for sale (about four of them), and each one of those puppies had a similar "market adjustment," too.
The Suzuki dealer I visited today had a "market adjustment" on its SX4s, too.
A note to dealerships/manufacturers: You know just as well as I do that that the economy isn't great, and that sales are way down. Perhaps now is not the time to be tacking on BS market adjustments to scam buyers out of a couple thousand extra dollars.
/rant
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Civic is sold ... on to car shopping!
Wow, that was fast. The Civic is sold—fastest I've ever sold a car—less than 24 hrs.
It looks like we might spend a bit more than we had originally anticipated on a car, so maybe a used Yaris, Fit, SX4, or such might enter into the running.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Selling our Civic
Well, the time has come to part with our 1998 Civic EX sedan. It's been a great vehicle for us, but we're looking to get something AWD to take skiing and such. Anyway, if you're interested, let me know. Here's the rundown on the vehicle:
• 5-speed
• 118,200 miles
• Clean title in hand
• H&R Sport springs
• 15x7 alloy wheels w/Gorilla locking lug nuts
• 205/50/15 Falken Ziex 512 tires
• '99 Civic Si rear sway bar
• Short-ram intake w/K&N filter
• Brospeed stainless-steel cat-back exhaust system
• Short-throw shifter
• JVC CD player
• Stinger alarm
Asking $4,500; located in Portland, OR. More pics in my Craigslist ad.
Where are the AWD subcompacts?
My wife and I have decided we're going to part ways with our 1998 Honda Civic EX. It's been a great vehicle for us, but we're looking to get something all-wheel drive/four-wheel drive that is better suited to getting us up to Mt. Hood for skiing and to get around the Pacific Northwest during times of inclement weather. We're obviously hanging onto the Yaris, which my wife is now driving since she commutes to work. I, luckily, work out of my home.
Anyway, I'd love to get something small, relatively fuel efficient, and AWD. It has to have a manual transmission, too. If I could afford a new car, I'd pick up a Suzuki SX4, and that'd be that. However, we're looking for something used and cheap (under $10,000, and probably more like $8,500). So, we're looking at choices like a used Toyota RAV4, a used Honda CR-V, or possibly a Subaru Impreza.
It dawned on me that there are not (and have not been) many choices for AWD subcompact cars in the U.S. Suzuki offers the SX4 and that's it for new cars. As far as used cars, again, Suzuki offered the Aerio in AWD, but it only came with an automatic, so that takes it off my list. You have to go further back to vehicles like the 1992-1996 Mitsubishi Expo/Plymouth Colt Vista/Eagle Summit Wagon or the venerable Subaru Justy if you want a small AWD car. I suppose you could count the first-generation Suzuki Sidekick/Chevrolet Tracker, too, at least the two-door models.
In other parts of the world, particularly Japan, there are a plethora of small, AWD vehicles. Heck, it seems like just about every model is offered with AWD. Perhaps companies think that the U.S. has a hard enough time swallowing small cars, let along AWD small cars.
By the way, anyone want to buy a Civic?
Thursday, February 12, 2009
The perfect time for the Toyota bB?
New Toyota bB
The 2004-2006 Scion xB was a revolutionary vehicle in the U.S. It came from Japan with few differences from its Japanese-market counterpart, the Toyota bB. Yes, it's looks were polarizing, but it had (and still has) a devout following. It got people excited about "small."
But maybe there's a solution. It just seems right for Scion to add perhaps another box to its lineup, and the current Japanese-market Toyota bB (as seen above) would be a great answer to the Cube, Soul, and other upcoming subcompacts. It's certainly different looking, but in a good way. It's the right size—about the same size as the original xB (and the Cube, and the Soul), and it's already got a good aftermarket in Japan, since it's been out for a couple of years already.
Then again, perhaps it wouldn't meet U.S. safety standards, and it has been on the Japanese market since late 2005. And with Scion's current lineup, it might be hard to successfully integrate another boxy five-door into the brand, what with the xB, the xD, and even the Yaris in Toyota's camp.
However, seeing what's coming down the pipe from competitors, including Ford, Chevrolet, possibly Suzuki, and others, it seems like Scion needs to do something to make it's fresh, hip image fresh and hip again. Maybe when the current xB's model run is up, Scion will decide to pony up with another amazing small vehicle; perhaps a refreshed Japanese-market Toyota bB? Hey, it worked the first time.
LINKS
Scion.com
Toyota Japan bB page
The Nissan Cube in person
Another vehicle that interested me from the Portland Auto Show was, of course, Nissan's Cube. One of the reasons I was so happy to see the Cube in person was I wanted to see how big (or small) it really was, and I'll say that I think it's the perfect size.
The Cube is just about the same size as the first-generation Scion xB. It's boxy shape with rounded corners looks edgy yet refined; it's not overdone, but it's still unique looking. I'd have to say the four-spoke wheels are a great look, too.Unfortunately, the vehicle was sitting on a display that the public wasn't allowed on, so I had to ask the lady to open it up to get a look at the interior. However, from my vantage point, I couldn't get great photos. From what I could see, the interior looked good. Preasent was the ripple-effect headliner and what looked to be a very functional interior space. There are plenty of Nissan-provided interior photos here.
The Cube's side-opening tailgate is a neat feature for such a small vehicle. Also cool was the Rockford Fosgate subwoofer located in the tailgate's bottom panel. Other options include iPod integration, MP3/WMA CD capability, and Bluetooh hand-free phone system. The Cube has push-button start and a variety of colors, too. Don't forget the availability of a shag carpet dash pad thing (see the Nissan Web site for that one).Also unique for such a small vehicle is the inclusion of a rear sonar system, AKA "reverse sensors." These are those little round dots you see on some vehicles rear bumpers (many larger and luxury vehicles) that aid the driver in reversing, especially while parallel parking. It's certainly not a feature you see on many cars in this price range.
Under the hood will be the 1.8-liter, 122 hp engine that is found in Nissan's other subcompact, the Versa. It will be mated to either a six-speed manual or CVT transmission. Safety features will include six airbags and vehicle dynamic control (VDC). I'm sure ABS will be available, too.
Nissan is poised to reclaim some of the buyers of the first-generation Scion xB, and the timing might be perfect. Since the original xB debuted in 2004, current owners might be just about ready to trade in their little boxes for Cubes.
LINKS
Nissan Cube (Nissan USA)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Nissan sets base price for Cube; four models availabe
Nissan has officially announced that there will be four Cube models: 1.8, 1.8S, 1.8SL, and 1.8 Krom. The base price will be $13,990. The Krom will have special goodies (think Scion's "Release Series" models). Lots more info over at Autoblog, including the full press release.
LINKS
2009 Nissan Cube starting at $13,990, Cube Krom unveiled (Autoblog)
Nissan Cube (Nissan official site)
Chevrolet Beat Spark
GM has released several high-resolution photos of what the production Chevrolet Spark (previously known as the "Beat") will look like. Apparently, the Spark will be sold in Europe early next year, with the little Chevy debuting in the U.S. in 2011. Let's hope this really happens. As you may know, last year GM said the U.S. was going to get the Beat/Spark, then said no, and now has said yes again. Let's hope it happens; GM desperately needs a good subcompact.
One thing's for certain: The Spark has retained much of the look of the Beat concept car (at left), which is a good thing in my opinion. I think it's a very attractive, aggressive looking, subcompact. Let's keep our fingers crossed.Check out the links to Autoblog and CarScoop for more photos.
LINKS
Chevrolet Spark (Autoblog)
Chevrolet Spark (CarScoop)
Sunday, February 8, 2009
The Kia Soul in person
I attened the 2009 Portland Auto Show this weekend, and low and behold, Kia brought a new Soul to the event.
Appearing in a very attractive metallic brown color, the Soul was instantly pleasing to the eyes. I really liked the design—not too boxy, not too round. The exterior shape lends itself to believe the car should be very practical for hauling both people and cargo. Size wise, the Soul is a tad bit bigger than a first-gen Scion xB, but not as big as a new one.
On the inside, the Soul had had a classy hound's tooth fabric on the headrests, and the dash wore a black-and-cream motif. As you may know, there are three interior colors to choose from and several fabric pattern options, too. Switchgear was solid, the seats were comfortable, and the interior was spacious. This Soul had the automatic transmission, but a manual trans will be available. Also of note: stereo controls on the steering wheel, and a variety of USB/auxiliary hookups for MP3, and the availability of a 315 watt sound system and Bluetooth connectivity.
Open the rear hatch, and there was an OK amount of storage behind the rear seats. However, open up the cargo cover on the floor, and there were several storage bins for stowing even more stuff. The rear seats split 60/40 to allow for more cargo.The Soul will be very customizable with more than 60 options to let buyers personalize the vehicle.
Kia says the car should start out around $14,000 and will of course have the company's 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty. The Soul goes on sale April of this year.
LINKSwww.KiaSoul.com
Little car, big truck
My wife and I were at IKEA the yesterday, and I come out to this huge truck parked next to my car. It just makes you realize how small your car actually is when compared to lifted trucks!
FYI, I truly have a fondness for all vehicles, including those that venture off the pavement. Having experienced the capability of some amazing off-road vehicles first hand (I worked in the off-road vehicle segment for a number of years and still have some companies as clients), I have an incredible respect for people that know how to drive where the pavement ends. Regardless, that's one big truck compared to my Yaris!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Small cars + Heavy people = Mechanical issues?
We all know that society as a whole is getting heavier, bigger, fatter. I know several larger people who will freely admit that they are not comfortable in a small car because they're bigger, and that's fine.
Now, out of Edmonton, Alberta Canada comes the story of a woman who says the local Kia dealership allegedly told her the reason her Kia Rio wasn't holding an alignment was because of her weight. The woman said the dealership's solution, after two alignments failed to correct the problem, was to have her sit in the car while the vehicle was getting an alignment, which she found embarrassing and humiliating.
Kia denies the allegation that the dealership suggested she be in the car during the alignment, but did admit there were problems with the situation. The dealership, Kia West Edmonton acknowledged, "The person handling the situation made some serious mistakes, and didn't handle it in the proper fashion."
Kia did conclude that the alignment was not caused by the woman's weight, and there was indeed an issue with the car itself. Kia has said it will work with the woman to fix the issue.
The woman hopes her story will "make manufacturers more aware of our growing society."
Below is a link to the video from Global Edmonton.
No doubt, a larger vehicle isn't going to be effected by the weight of an individual as much as a Kia Rio or other subcompact. However, should manufacturers make vehicles, especially smaller cars, more mechanically stout to accommodate our ever-enlarging society?
Let's hear your opinion in the comments section ...
LINK
Trouble Shooter: Weighed Down (Global Edmonton)
Japanese Van Blog: OMG Pancakes
I have a very soft spot for quirky Japanese vehicles, especially vans and hatchbacks—I know not exactly a surprise. However, it's good to know that I'm not the only one with an affinity towards these kooky vehicles. "Chops" over at OMG Pancakes also has a fondness for the craziness that can be JDM vans, micros, hatchbacks, and what have you.
Give his blog a look--it's pretty cool!
LINKS
OMG Pancakes
Monday, February 2, 2009
Monster Matiz: 505 hp
The Chevrolet/Daewoo Matiz is a subcompact sold in several places around the world. Usually, the diminutive Daewoo comes with either an 800cc three-cylinder engine, or a
Enter Fourdin Auto Sport, out of Belgium, who has stuffed a 500+ hp, 7.0-liter Corvette Z06 V8 engine into the little Korean-made Chevy. Zero-to-sixty is said to be in the high three-second range and a top speed of more than 160mph. How about some vids?
Thanks to Thomas for the heads-up on this little beast!
New, more powerul 2010 or 2011 Yaris?
The car blog AUTOinCAR has a photo from the Japanese publication Mag-X Magazine, of what could be the 2010 or 2011 Yaris. Click on the link below to take a look. In addition, the blog also states that the 2010 JDM Yaris may feature more power. Will it make it to the U.S.?
LINKS
Rendering Picture: Next generation 2010 Toyota Yaris (AUTOinCAR)
2010-2011 Improved, more powerful?
Mag-X Magazine
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Nisssan Cube Spotted in Arizona
A reader over at Scionlife.com caught the 2010 Nissan Cube on the 101 in Arizona. A couple of the photos give a good idea how large the car is, at least next to a Chevy conversion van. Photos courtesy of Robert Basil
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