Kia Sportage

The Kia Sportage has never been one for small evolutionary changes. Originally a cheap, poorly made penalty box and then later a solid, yet utterly forgettable bargain-price SUV, today's Sportage is now a stylish and well-rounded compact crossover SUV. In human terms, the Kia Sportage has gone from a baboon to a Neanderthal and then George Clooney in the span of 15 years.

While the previous generation might be a cost-effective used choice, the current Sportage is a crossover that stands out from the crowd and is without question the most appealing model yet. It remains on the small side among compact crossovers, however, and as such is a better choice for singles or those with small families.

Current Kia Sportage
The current Kia Sportage was introduced for 2011. Characterized by a striking, European-inspired exterior design, an eye-pleasing interior and a well-engineered chassis, this compact crossover has vaulted to the top of the crossover pack in its segment.

The Sportage is presently available in base, LX and EX trim levels, which all come with a 176-horsepower 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. There's a choice between front- and all-wheel drive, and most consumers will end up with a six-speed automatic transmission (though a manual is standard on the base model).

Despite its "base" name, though, standard equipment for the entry-level Sportage includes alloy wheels, Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity, satellite radio and an iPod interface. Stepping up to the upper trims gets you access to bigger wheels, keyless entry, a telescoping wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated and ventilated seats, leather upholstery, a rearview camera and a navigation system. A sport-tuned SX trim shall arrive later in the 2011 model year packing a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The Sportage's interior features a pleasing mix of complex and organic shapes. There is quite a bit of hard plastic throughout the cabin, but for the most part, it's well-textured and adequately padded where passengers generally make contact. Passengers and driver alike benefit from well-contoured seats and adequate head- and legroom. The rear seat comfortably accommodates two average-size adults, but the seat doesn't recline or slide fore and aft. The Sportage comes up a bit short in regards to cargo space, too, offering a maximum of 26.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 54.6 cubes with the 60/40-split-folding seats laid flat. Bigger competitors boast as many as 73 cubes.

On the road, the Kia Sportage finally lives up to its name. It feels more athletic and engaging than other compact crossovers thanks to taut suspension tuning. This leads to a bit of a stiff-legged ride over rough pavement and washboard highways, though. Power from the four-cylinder engine is simply adequate, but at least the automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly.

Used Kia Sportage Models
The previous, second-generation Kia Sportage was launched for 2005 and ran until 2010. Considerably different from the previous generation, this Sportage featured a new unibody platform shared with the Hyundai Tucson (just as the current model does). Compared to the current Sportage, though, this generation was a bit bigger in interior size but far plainer both in design and interior material quality. There were no significant changes made during this generation.

There were two trim levels: LX and EX. Both trims are equipped with a healthy list of standard amenities, such as alloy wheels, air-conditioning, full power accessories, tinted glass and a six-speaker CD stereo. Satellite radio as well as auxiliary and USB audio jacks were added for 2009.

The LX was powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine capable of 140 hp. It came standard with a five-speed manual transmission, and a four-speed automatic was available as an option. Most Sportages with this engine were front-wheel drive, though Kia did offer all-wheel drive on manual transmission-equipped models. As an upgrade for the Sportage LX and standard on the EX, Kia offered a 173-hp 2.7-liter V6. It came standard with the automatic transmission and could be had with front-drive or all-wheel drive.

This Sportage might not have looked too big from the outside, but the interior had plenty of headroom and legroom, both in the front and the back. The rear seats split and folded flat for a level cargo floor and a maximum of 67 cubic feet of storage. Fit and finish was OK and materials quality was on the cheap side. Safety was a strong suit for this Sportage, with strong crash scores and a full complement of airbags, stability control and four-wheel antilock disc brakes.

In reviews, our editors found that this Sportage did few things poorly, but it failed to stand out in a segment where its competitors did things exceptionally well. Its dull styling and drab cabin did it no favors, while both its engines were unimpressive from both a power and fuel economy standpoint.

The Kia Sportage started life in 1995 as a body-on-frame compact SUV. Though it was one of the first such vehicles of its kind, it was too small and underpowered to compete with the roomier, more carlike mini-utes that Honda, Subaru and Toyota rolled out shortly thereafter. The base Sportage came with a meager 94-hp, 2.0-liter SOHC four-cylinder. Rear-wheel drive and a five-speed manual transmission were standard. Kia also offered a part-time 4WD version of the base trim. The 4x4 Sportage came with a twincam 2.0-liter four-cylinder good for 139 hp. A better-equipped EX trim came standard with 4WD and the more powerful engine. A four-speed automatic transmission was an option on all 4WD models.

Kia eliminated the single-cam engine in 1997, leaving all trims equipped with the twincam engine, now rated for 130 hp. That same year, Kia began offering the four-speed automatic on 2WD models.

In 1998, Kia added a two-door convertible to the Sportage lineup. It was available with both drivetrains (2WD and 4WD). After that, there were no more significant changes to the Kia Sportage, only minor face-lifts and interior modifications. The final year of production was 2002. Buyers should generally avoid these early models, as they weren't able to match the levels of comfort, performance and fit and finish offered by competing models of the same time period.

Jaguar XF & Jaguar C-XF

The Jaguar XF is a mid-size luxury automobile / sports sedan that will substitute the S-Type in the British car manufacturer Jaguar Cars lineup. The production version of the Jaguar XF debuted at the 2007 Frankfurt Motor Show, with client deliveries arrange to start in March 2008, depending on the market.

In UK alone there have been over 3,000 preorders which makes it a very succesful vehicle before it even gets to the showrooms. Experts are predicting that this car will have a very high resale value.

Currently the following XF models are available in the UK:

* 2.7-litre V6 Diesel
* 3.0-litre V6 Petrol
* 4.2-litre Naturally Aspirated V8 Petrol
* 4.2-litre Supercharged V8 Petrol

The XF model was designed and engineered in Whitley, Coventry and is being built in Castle Bromwich.

The basic 3.0 litre model starts at £32,925 while the most expensive 4.2 litre SV8 costs £53,925.

Jaguar C-XF Concept

Although the C-XF features four doors, its shape is very much that of a coupé, abiding by a designing style began by the already victorious Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class. Jaguar acknowledges this approach will limit the potential market for the car, but the believing within Jaguar is that its actual woes are down to an overly ambitious, poorly planned to turn Jaguar into a large-volume rival for BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Audi. Therefore, rather than making the 200,000 cars per year, mooted at the turn of the century it will aim for fairly less than 100,000, converting Jaguar into an exclusive, low-volume producer of high-quality premium sport cars.

For more details you can browse to jaguarxf.com

2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG

2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Specifications
Chassis
Wheels Available forged 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels
Tires Front 255/35 R 19
Tires Rear 285/30 R 19
Suspension AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with steel-spring front struts, rear air AMG air suspension
Drivetrain
Layout Front Engine, RWD
Transmission AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission
Differential Electronic locking LSD with ESP selectable suspension characteristics
Engine
Type: Handbuilt AMG V8 introduced on SL63 AMG Roadster
Displacement 6.2 liters
Induction Naturally aspirated
Horsepower 525 bhp
Torque 465 lb-ft. (630 Nm)
Performance
Acceleration (0-100 km/h) 4.5 seconds
Top Speed 155 mph, electronically limited
Base Price: 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG: Unreleased, rumored $80,000.


2010 E63 AMG Gets SL63 AMG Motor, Completely Reworked Suspension

Want a recipe for a super-exciting four door sport sedan? Drop in a handbuilt AMG powerplant from your most expensive sports car into the otherwise-tame 4 door E-Class, boost the suspension and slow-down-and-stop, add some bling and call it a day. The 2010 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG gets the same powerplant as AMG's own SL63, and on-road experience in the latter car shows this motor is truly breathtaking.

Say what you will about the new 2010 E-Class's styling, but in AMG trim the rather ordinary new E gets its chance to look good for the cameras, if you manage to catch one on the road going slowly enough to get a good look.

The E63 AMG is more than a new body and a big motor, and seems to have received the little touches that will allow it to finally compete with the best from BMW and Audi in the driving dynamics department. The E AMG no longer uses a torque converter psuedo-manual, canning that outdated technology in favor of a 7-speed automanual featuring a wet-sump clutch constantly submerged in an oil bath for smooth shifts and protection against wear.

The E63 suspension system is completely revised, with a new steel-springed strut setup up front and an AMG-specific air suspension out back, with all the expected launch and stability controls and other annoyances. Thankfully, the nannies can be sent home for the most part when the 2010 E63 AMG is put into sport mode.

Deliveries for the latest and greatest E-Class begin this August in Europe, with a US release date quick to follow in November 2009. Base price info has not yet been released, but expect something in the $70,000-$85,000 range.

-RSportsCars





The E 63 AMG – the new generation of dynamic, sports saloon with day-to-day suitability

Official Mercedes-Benz Press Release

Affalterbach – AMG is kicking off the new 2009 motoring season with a new dynamism: shortly after the launch of the new E-Class, the high-performance brand within Mercedes-Benz Cars is presenting the new E 63 AMG. This dynamic sports saloon with day-to-day suitability impresses with outstanding performance, thrilling handling characteristics and a technology transfer from the SL 63 AMG high-performance Roadster.

The new E 63 AMG distinguishes itself from the regular Mercedes-Benz E-Class models with a completely newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension with electronically controlled damping and a new front axle, and with its autonomous exterior and interior design. At the same time Mercedes-AMG has achieved a reduction in fuel consumption by almost 12 percent for the new E 63 AMG, thanks to the concerted use of fuel efficiency measures. With its unique combination of pioneering driver assistance systems, the E 63 AMG further consolidates the brand's leading position in the field of automotive safety.

The AMG 6.3-litre V8 engine in the new E 63 AMG develops a power output of 525 hp and a torque figure of 630 Nm, matching the outstanding figures for the SL 63 AMG. The high-performance Roadster has also donated its AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission to the new model. It dispenses with a conventional torque converter and uses a compact, wet start-up clutch. In conjunction with the four individual driving modes, the throttle-blipping and RACE START functions, the resulting, direct connection to the powertrain allows an extremely emotional and highly dynamic driving experience.

The drive unit is unique in this segment, and ensures sporty performance figures: the E 63 AMG accelerates from 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph (electronically limited). The fast-revving, naturally aspirated engine with a displacement of 6208 cc impresses with its agile responsiveness, muscular power delivery and great flexibility. The newly composed AMG V8 sound is a thrilling accompaniment mile after mile, while the smooth-running engine guarantees typical Mercedes-Benz long-distance comfort. A newly designed water cooling system ensures maximum endurance even under the enormous dynamic stresses of the racetrack.

Fuel consumption cut by almost 12 percent

Despite 11 hp of additional output versus the preceding model, the fuel consumption of the new E 63 AMG has been significantly improved. It now returns 22.4 mpg, 2.6 mpg more than then previous car (NEDC combined consumption, provisional figure), and leads the field among sports saloons developing more than 500 hp. This progress has been made possible by a package of efficiency-enhancing measures. These include on-demand delivery of fuel and generator management with recuperation of braking energy on the overrun, both of which are standard in the new E 63 AMG. In-engine friction is also reduced by the AMG-exclusive twin-wire arc spray coating process used on the cylinder walls.

The AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission also makes a decisive contribution to fuel economy: a wet start-up clutch running in an oil bath replaces the previous torque converter. This unit responds extremely rapidly, dynamically and without the losses typical of a torque converter transmission thanks to its low rotational inertia. The transmission is equipped with four driving modes: "C" (Controlled Efficiency), "S" (Sport), "S+" (Sport plus) and "M" (Manual), which can be selected using a rotary electronic switch in the AMG DRIVE UNIT. Partial suppression of individual cylinders by interrupting ignition and injection during gearshifts under full load leads to considerably faster shift times. In M mode the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission allows gearshifts to be performed in 100 milliseconds.

In the even more fuel-efficient driving mode Controlled Efficiency, the transmission shifts the gears decidedly smoothly, and the transmission control unit is programmed to perform early upshifts to keep engine speeds as low as possible. At the same time the AMG SPEEDSHIFT MCT 7-speed sports transmission meets the most demanding requirements where driving dynamics are concerned: fast and precise multiple downshifts ensure first-class agility in conjunction with the automatic throttle-blipping and RACE START function: this enables the E 63 AMG driver to call on the maximum acceleration potential automatically.

Electronically controlled damping system and a new front axle

Sporty or more comfort-oriented? The driver of the new Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG is not obliged to accept any compromises in this respect. The AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension copes equally well with the agile manoeuvres of the racetrack and more comfortable, sedate driving. High performance and typical Mercedes-Benz long-distance comfort go together as an extraordinary synthesis in the E 63 AMG. This is made possible by the newly developed AMG RIDE CONTROL sports suspension. While new steel spring struts are used on the front axle, the rear suspension features AMG-specific air springs. The advantage of this solution, which is exclusive to AMG, is that the front spring struts ensure more sensitive responses while the rear air struts with their automatic level control system keep the vehicle at a constant height irrespective of the load.

A new, electronically controlled damping system automatically varies the damping characteristics according to the driving situation, reducing the roll angle of the body. The result is instant adjustment to provide the best possible ride comfort together with the greatest possible agility. In addition the driver is able to choose between the three suspension modes of Comfort, Sport and Sport plus at the touch of a button. The E 63 AMG is also equipped with a newly developed, dedicated front axle with a 56 mm wider track, a tubular stabiliser, new control arms, new wheel bearings, new elastokinematics and new wheel location for more negative camber – thereby providing more grip when taking bends at speed. The AMG-specific kinematics also ensure significantly more precision. This is a highly sophisticated axle design whose principle has already proved its worth in the C 63 AMG. The rear axle likewise has more negative camber, optimised elastokinematics and a new subframe mounting for greater stability at the physical limits.

Newly developed power steering and individual 3-stage ESP®

For more direct responsiveness, the speed-sensitive rack-and-pinion steering is also a new development. The steering ratio of 14 : 1 is 22 percent more direct than in the standard production models, while a more rigid steering column plus the reconfigured characteristic mapping of the speed-sensitive servo assistance ensure better steering precision and improved road contact.

The 3-stage ESP® familiar from the SL 63 AMG and C 63 AMG enables individual settings to be selected – with clear benefits in terms of driving pleasure combined with the same, high level of handling safety. The ESP® key in the AMG DRIVE UNIT allows the driver to choose between "ESP ON", "ESP SPORT" and "ESP OFF" – with the currently active mode shown in the central display of the AMG instrument cluster. Perfect deceleration even when driving extremely briskly is ensured by the AMG high-performance braking system with 360 mm, internally ventilated and perforated brake discs all-round. Particularly resistant, motorsports-tested composite technology is used at the front axle. Outstanding grip is ensured by the 18-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with a width of nine and 9.5 inches and mixed tyre sizes of 255/40 R 18 at the front and 285/35 R 18 at the rear.

Decidedly dynamic interior and exterior

The decidedly dynamic design of the E 63 AMG is fully in keeping with the uncompromisingly sporty technology. The front aspect is characterised by 17 mm wider wings bearing "6.3 AMG" lettering, the new AMG front apron with large air intake apertures and the AMG-specific daytime driving lights using LED technology. In conjunction with the standard Intelligent Light System, the E 63 AMG is equipped with tinted main headlamps. The striking visual presence is further enhanced by the AMG side skirts and AMG rear apron with a black diffuser insert. As a hallmark of the brand, the AMG sports exhaust system has two newly designed, chrome-plated twin tailpipes.

The newly designed interior of the E 63 AMG is an exciting blend of high-grade materials and functional sportiness. Exclusive features include the dedicated, electrically adjustable AMG sports seats with improved lateral support and the AMG sports steering wheel in a four-spoke design with AMG shift paddles. As a completely new feature exclusive to the E 63 AMG, the AMG selector lever has one-touch logic. Directly adjacent to it in the centre console is the AMG DRIVE UNIT, which provides adjustments for the MCT sports transmission, the ESP functions, the suspension set-up and the AMG driving modes. Standard equipment also includes high-grade nappa leather upholstery in three different colours, the AMG instrument cluster with an AMG main menu, door entry sills with AMG lettering and a sports pedal cluster – both in brushed stainless steel.

Even more individuality with tailor-made AMG extras

Customers requiring even more sporty individuality are catered for by the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO: the E 63 AMG can be dynamically enhanced with the Performance Package. This includes the following:

* Lightweight, forged 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with size 255/35 R 19 tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear
* AMG Performance suspension with a stiffer set-up
* AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
* AMG spoiler lip on the boot lid
* AMG Performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design

Optional extras from the AMG PERFORMANCE STUDIO are also individually available:

* Lightweight, forged 19-inch AMG light-alloy wheels with size 255/35 R 19
tyres at the front and 285/30 R 19 at the rear
* AMG rear axle locking differential with 40 percent locking action
* AMG Exterior Carbon package
* AMG Performance steering wheel in a three-spoke design
* AMG carbon-fibre trim in the interior
* Illuminated AMG door entry sills
* AMG floor mats

Active and passive safety at a new level

The top AMG model in the E-Class range traditionally meets the very highest expectations with respect to active and passive safety. Naturally this also applies to the new E 63 AMG: standard features include the new drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the unique preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®, Brake Assist PLUS, seven airbags and crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints. On request the safety features can be brought to a level unprecedented in this vehicle class with the Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist systems, the PRE-SAFE® Brake with an automatic braking function which can bring the vehicle to a complete stop, Adaptive Highbeam Assist and Night View Assist.

The market launch of the new E 63 AMG will commence in August 2009. UK specifications are still to be confirmed.