New Mini Convertible

The presentation of the MINI brand at the 2009 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit is characterised in particular by the world debut of an unusually thrilling model and the breakthrough of the brand into a new age of mobility.

The first public appearance of the new MINI Convertible is leading up as a highly attractive highlight to the warm season, the open four-seater MINI offering lots of opportunities to start the convertible season this year at a particularly early point in time.

The public in Detroit will also have the opportunity from 17-25 January 2009 to experience the MINI E, with 500 units of the first all-electric MINI to be driven in California, New York and New Jersey by selected customers in everyday traffic. Introducing this revolutionary model, the BMW Group is setting a further milestone en route to individual mobility completely free of emissions.

Further highlights at the 2009 NAIAS are the current versions of the MINI and MINI Clubman. The focus in particular is on the latest additions to the range, the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. Both of these top-flight athletes are powered by a 155 kW/211 hp four-cylinder with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct gasoline injection.

Even more fun in everyday traffic: the new MINI Convertible.

Presenting the 2009 model range in Detroit, MINI is putting everything in place to continue the brand's unique story of success in the USA at a fast and dynamic pace. Particularly the new MINI Convertible scheduled to enter the market in March 2009 will establish new momentum, taking up the success of the former model already most popular in the USA, with loyal aficionados throughout the country: Out of a total production volume of some 164,000 MINI Convertibles in the first generation, more than 37,000 units - about 24 per cent - were sold in the United States.

The new MINI Convertible is based on the qualities of its predecessor, giving even greater emphasis to the characteristic strengths of the open-air MINI. And thanks to new engines as well as the suspension upgraded to an even higher standard, this one and only premium convertible in its segment offers all the driving pleasure so typical and characteristic of MINI.
At the same time the new model comes with a new, retractable rollover safety system and a wide range of detailed solutions for exceptional all-round functionality. The new MINI Convertible is therefore perfectly prepared for all the challenges of everyday motoring, inviting the driver and passengers to enjoy the pleasant moments of life more often than ever before. To open the soft roof, for example, all you have to do is press a button, the roof opening fully automatically within just 15 seconds (and closing again just as fast).

The new MINI Convertible is entering the US automobile market with two model variants. The new MINI Cooper Convertible powered by an 88 kW/120 hp 1.6-litre four-cylinder offers particularly sporting character and powerful performance. The power unit comes with fully variable valve management developed on the basis of the BMW Group's unique VALVETRONIC technology and ensuring an optimised torque curve, superior power and exemplary efficiency.

The new MINI Cooper Convertible accelerates to 100 km/h or 62 mph in 9.8 seconds and has a top speed of 198 km/h or 123 mph. Fuel consumption in the EU test cycle is 5.7 litres/100 kilometres, equal to 41.1 mpg US, and the CO2 rating is 127 grams per kilometre.

The new MINI Cooper S Convertible likewise featuring a 1.6-litre four-cylinder power unit but in this case with maximum output of 128 kW/175 hp thanks to the twin-scroll turbocharger and direct gasoline injection offers even more power and performance, accelerating to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.4 seconds, Top speed, in turn, is an equally impressive 222 km/h or 138 mph.
Average fuel consumption of the MINI Cooper S Convertible in the EU test cycle is 6.4 litres (equal to 36.6 mpg US), and the car's emission rating is 153 grams per kilometre. Compared with their predecessors, therefore, both the new MINI Cooper Convertible and the new MINI Cooper S Convertible offer a significantly higher standard of performance on substantially less fuel and with much lower emissions.

Apart from the fast-revving and powerful engines, modern suspension technology helps to give both new models a new dimension in agile handling. Both the MINI Cooper S Convertible and the MINI Cooper Convertible come with DSC Dynamic Stability Control featured as standard. As an option, Dynamic Stability Control may be further upgraded by the DTC optimised traction mode available exclusively on the MINI as the only front-wheel-drive car with this technology and an electrical locking function on the drive wheel differential.

Safety is raised to an even higher standard, inter alia, by the new rollover safety system moving up electromechanically whenever required. This single-piece rollbar rests almost out of sight behind the rear seats, moving up within fractions of a second only when the electronic safety control registers the risk of a rollover.

Thanks to the design and structure of the single-piece rollbar, the through-loading between the luggage and passenger compartment is particularly large and generous in size, increasing the maximum loading capacity of the MINI Convertible by 55 to 660 litres (23.1 cu ft).

The wide range of options for customising the new MINI Convertible has also been extended once again, new body colours, three different colour and trim variants on the roof and a large number of upholstery options, interior surfaces and trim bars enabling the customer to create his - or her - very own car in his personal style.

Setting out for emission-free mobility: the MINI E.

Yet another MINI highlight at the 2009 NAIAS likewise offers driving pleasure typical of MINI in everyday motoring: Immediately after the launch of a pilot project in a number of US states, the trendsetting MINI E is now being presented to the public in Detroit.

This unique new model boasts an electric motor developing maximum output of no less than 150 kW/204 hp. This kind of superior energy comes from a lithium-ion battery fitted at the rear of this two-seater and giving the car a cruising range of more than 240 kilometres or, respectively, 150 miles.

The energy reservoir may be recharged from any kind of power socket, with power reserves being replenished particularly quickly from a special Wallbox delivered to the customer together with the MINI E.

Extracting a maximum of 28 kilowatt hours from the power mains, the MINI E is able to cover a distance of 5.4 miles on each kilowatt supplied to the car.

The MINI E combines emission-free motoring with agility typical of the brand. Acceleration to 100 km/h or 62 mph comes in just 8.5 seconds, with top speed limited electronically to 152 km/h or. respectively, 95 mph.

Running 500 cars under practical, everyday driving conditions on the road in the USA, MINI will be gaining practical experience through a representative cross-section of users. At the same time the BMW Group will benefit from valuable experience in developing production cars running entirely on electrical power.

Motorsport know-how for the road: the MINI John Cooper Works.

The outstanding performance of the MINI John Cooper Works and the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman are likewise the result of the BMW Group's outstanding competence in the development of new engine technology. The 155 kW/211 hp four-cylinder featured in both of these models comes straight from the power unit raced in the MINI CHALLENGE Clubsport Series. The MINI John Cooper Works accelerates to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5, the MINI John Cooper Works Clubman in 6.8 seconds. Both models have a top speed of 238 km/h or 148 mph.

Both of these top-flight athletes are built at the MINI Plant in Oxford together with the other models in the range. Through their particular character and qualities focusing without compromises on an active driving experience, these very special models add an important highlight to the brand's overall range. And like the new MINI Convertible, they also prove the diversity the MINI brand is able to offer.

Lexus SC 430 Convertible

Lexus adds interior technology and exterior enhancements to the 2010 SC 430, the pioneer of the retractable hardtop in the prestige luxury segment.

"To build on the driving experience, the 2010 SC is now equipped with an updated Lexus Navigation System and Mark Levinson Premium Audio System. The enhanced audio package now features iPod/USB connectivity, auxiliary audio input, Bluetooth hands free phone and music streaming capabilities, and an available XM satellite radio receiver (complimentary 90-day trial subscription). On the exterior, the 2010 SC is now outfitted with 18-inch six-spoke wheels with a dark finish, side mirrors with integrated puddle lamps, and Costa Azul Mica is a newly available exterior color," Lexus informed.

The rear-wheel-drive SC 430 is powered by an aluminum double-overhead cam (DOHC) 4.3-liter V8 engine that produces 288 horsepower and 317 lb.-ft. of peak torque. Power is channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission, enabling the SC 430 to accelerate from zero-to-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds.

Lexus IS F Convertible

Spurred and pepped up by the superb sales of its IS250 C and IS350 C convertibles, Lexus is now working on Lexus IS-F convertible. Yes, the luxury vehicle division of Japanese automaker Toyota Motor Corporation – Lexus is reportedly gearing up to roll out “Lexus IS F Convertible”.

The Car and Driver website has reported that Lexus is building a convertible version of its IS F sports sedan, which will be followed by “F” version of its recently launched 2010 IS C convertible. The website has reported that the Lexus IS F Convertible is expected to come powered with the Lexus IS F sports sedan’s 5.0-liter V-8 and eight-speed automatic transmission.

According to the website, the new convertible versions of the Lexus IS series of sport luxury cars will not be replacing the SC430. The Lexus IS F Convertible will compete with the drop-top BMW M3 cabriolet and even Mercedes. The Lexus IS-F convertible is expected to be launched in the early first quarter of 2011.

The exact price information about the upcoming Lexus IS F Convertible is not available yet. However, the starting price of Lexus IS250 C with manual transmission is $38,480, while starting price of the Lexus IS 350 C with auto transmission is $43,940.

Mini Cooper S Convertible

Since 2001, Mini has of course changed a lot. Although the pre 2001 Mini has the same name and some of the same details, they are both very different cars. It is much more difficult to spot the differences between the early new Mini, and the Mini that is on sale today. The overall look has been maintained, but much of the bodywork, the engine and the headlamps have been altered.

The new Mini convertibles are obviously very appealing. It has been proven that we love drop-tops in this country. You still get the sense of fun that comes with the Mini territory and some of the assets on the convertible bring very useful benefits. For example, changes in the car’s aerodynamics. Also the hood mechanism has been changed, to make rear viewing easier.

The Cooper S is probably the ‘crème de la crème’, of the Mini bunch. Its turbocharger provides it with more torque than the Mini Cooper.

Convertible Minis have been big sellers in the past, but in current economic times, expect more recession friendly alternatives like the Fiat 500 to come into play; especially as it now has its open-topped ‘c’ variation.

2009 Smart ForTwo

2009 Smart ForTwo: Overview

The 2009 Smart ForTwo lineup gains a new sporty model. Otherwise, this subcompact car is largely unchanged following its model-year 2008 introduction in the U.S. ForTwo is the smallest and shortest car available for the mass market in North America. The ForTwo is an ultra-compact two-seater designed and built by the Smart company, a division of Daimler and Mercedes-Benz. Smart has partnered with U.S. dealership network Penske Automotive Group, Inc. to form Smart USA, and the company sells the ForTwo in approximately 70 select Mercedes-Benz- and stand-alone dealerships across the country. Two-door coupe and convertible body styles are offered. The sole engine is a 71-hp 1.0-liter 3-cylinder that teams with a 5-speed automated manual transmission. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, and side airbags that provide head and torso protection. Coupes in base-level Pure trim come with manual mirrors and windows and a fold-flat passenger seat. Up-level Passion coupes add a add air conditioning, alloy wheels, and power windows and mirrors. The Cabriolet convertible has a power soft top with heated glass rear window. New for 2009 are the sporty BRABUS coupe and convertible, which include a sport suspension, leather upholstery, and heated seats.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide Automotive places each vehicle into one of 18 classes based on size, price, and market position. The subcompact class is made up of the smallest hatchbacks, sedans, and wagons on the market. These are generally considered economy cars.

Our Best Buys include the Honda Fit and Suzuki SX4. Our Recommended picks are the Hyundai Accent, Kia Rio, and Scion xD. New or significantly redesigned models include the Chevrolet Aveo, Honda Fit, and Pontiac G3. The Toyota Yaris adds a 4-door hatchback to its model lineup for 2009.

2010 Ford Mustang GT

Tired of reading about Hybrids and saving the planet? Why not tear it up with the brand new 2010 Ford Mustang GT! The 2010 Ford Mustang GT receives minor exterior updates and nice interior material upgrades. In addition to the improved interior the 2010 Mustang has Ford Sync as a very attractive option. Ford definitely did not break the mold with the 2010 Mustang. It uses the same 4.6-liter V8 up front, same five-speed transmissions behind it and the same live-axle suspension as before. Almost all of the dimensions and most of the hardware on the 2010 Ford Mustang GT remain the same as the previous model. Still, for under 30,000 you get great performance with that sweet exhaust note we all love to hear.

2010 Ford Mustang GT Review

The two previous generations of the Ford Mustang clearly took inspiration from the brand’s prestigious history. The next-generation 2010 Mustang also reproduces several classic elements from the original pony, particularly the gaping, mean-looking grille up front. The result is a machine with some serious demeanor and visual bite that’s ready to take on fresh new challengers… like, well, the Dodge Challenger!

The two previous generations of the Ford Mustang clearly took inspiration from the brand’s prestigious history.

The new Mustang marks a clear evolution from its predecessor. Although styling is pretty similar at first glance, the only things that remain unchanged are the rear side glass and fenders. The rest is entirely new, particularly the front fascia and rear end. The former benefits from a complete facelift that contributes to a bulkier, more aggressive presence.

Of course, the massive 19-inch wheels in GT trim are just as impressive. The taillights, meanwhile, are quite striking at night and their updated design retains the typical three-part configuration. One thing I immediately noticed is the vastly-improved build quality with near-perfect panel gaps.

The interior shows definite progress in terms of material selection as well as fit and finish. Sure, there are still some hard plastics to be found, but they do not feel as cheap as in previous models. It’s a shame, though, that Ford designers used grey plastic instead of genuine aluminum; after all, the 2010 Mustang GT is priced above $40,000.

Hurray for the modern pony
When stepping inside this legendary coupe, one notices the blue-lit Mustang sill plates -- a cool design feature usually exclusive to much more expensive cars. My GT tester also included a panoramic glass roof that floods the cabin with sunlight and mitigates the cramped interior feel, an oversized navigation display, Ford’s SYNC multimedia system, a rearview camera and SIRIUS satellite radio. For the ultimate Mustang experience, I recommend channel 7, which will blast ‘70s music through the 500-watt speakers. It feels so real that you’ll almost grow a mustache.

The interior shows definite progress in terms of material selection as well as fit and finish.

2010 Ford Mustang GT

Ford caught its competitors flat-footed with the introduction of the retro-styled 2005 Mustang, which was an immediate hit and reinvigorated the sagging "pony car" market. The Mustang's success didn't escape the attention of General Motors and Chrysler executives, who figured they had some retro pony cars in their portfolio, too. So we got a new-old Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger.

Hearing the rumble of those approaching hoofbeats, Ford countered by engineering the first major makeover of the current Mustang since it was introduced. Although at first glance it may not look that different, the 2010 Mustang's body shares only the roof with the 2009 model.

While the exterior was streamlined, the interior received a substantial update, too. Nothing dramatic inside, but it's comfortable, nicely done, and even on the base models, looks and feels upscale.

Under the hood, the two engine choices remain the 4.0-liter V-6, and the 4.6-liter V-8 for the GT model. The V-6 has 210 horsepower, and the V-8 received a modest bump to 315 horsepower. Both are offered with manual or automatic transmissions.

The test 2010 Mustang was a convertible GT Premium, with the optional ($995) five-speed automatic transmission. Though I like manual-transmission Mustangs, this automatic was an excellent match to the V-8. Ford has been using a version of this 4.6-liter V-8 in the Mustang GT since 1996 - it had just 215 horsepower then - but refinements have made it smoother, power delivery more linear. That V-8 exhaust sound is sweet, too, but never overpowering, even with the top down.

And as for that top: It was a conventional soft convertible top that is held to the windshield with two manual latches. Other than that, it lowers and raises at the touch of a button. I was a little disappointed to find more "cowl shake" than I expected - that's the tendency for the body to flex on rough roads or cross railroad tracks, due to the absence of a hard roof's structural contribution to the chassis' stiffness.

Otherwise, no complaints: Ride and handling are excellent, steering a little twitchy but acceptable, brake feel is just right. With the automatic transmission and optional 19-inch aluminum wheels ($1,095), plus shipping ($850), the list price was $38,935. EPA ratings was 17 mph city, 23 mpg highway.

2010 Ford Mustang Joins NASCAR Nationwide Series

At least one ponycar is destined for NASCAR’s Nationwide Series, as Ford confirmed it would offer a Mustang stock car to teams next year.






“We’re excited about the new car,” said NASCAR president Mike Helton. “It’s going to be one good-looking race car.”


Judging by the rendering released by Ford, that last point may a matter of semantics. A lot of the Mustang’s visual identity, especially in the front fascia, seems to have been abandoned in the pursuit of aerodynamic perfection. Still, this is simply a rendering. We’ve yet to see the finalized car, and for that matter, NASCAR has yet to reveal the finalized body template.

“I think race fans--and Mustang loyalists--will be very pleased when we publicly roll out the first car later this fall,” said Brian Wolfe, director of Ford’s North American motorsports operations.

“We had been talking with NASCAR for some time about Mustang as part of its vision for a ‘muscle car’ rollout for the Nationwide Series. We loved the idea, so we jumped on the chance to extend Mustang’s racing legacy to a new series.”

We’re eager not only to see the finalized car, but also to take a look at whatever competitor Dodge may field. Early photos of a test vehicle showed a blunt nose that closely resembled the production Challenger. To date, Dodge hasn’t revealed its new Nationwide Series car, or commented on its future involvement in the series, given Chrysler’s recent financial woes.