Jaguar X-Type 2008 review

The undeniably distinctive jaguar cat hood ornament leaps forward on the 2008 Jaguar X-Type introducing a luxurious sport sedan that is also available as a wagon. Unmistakable craftsmanship and style are very evident in this driver's car and passengers are well attended to as well. However, this Jag doesn't carry the price tag-or the driving experience and extraordinary luxury-one usually associates with a Jaguar.

Although it is powered by a proficient 3.0 liter V6 engine that produces 227 horsepower and comes with all wheel drive standard and a 5 speed automatic transmission, it is still lacking the power found in many sedans produced by other manufacturers. In the 0 to 60 test the X-Type came in at an unimpressive 8.2 seconds.

This entry level Jaguar is available as both a sedan and wagon in only one well equipped trim. Standard equipment includes 16-inch alloy wheels for the sedan and 17 inch alloy wheels for the wagon. Both model come equipped with a sunroof, automatic headlights and wipers, leather upholstery, real wood trim, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, 10-way power front seats with driver memory, a trip computer and a six-speaker audio system with CD player. The wagon includes just a little bit more with a rear park assist system and an upgraded stereo system.

Options that can be purchased separately include heated leather seats, a navigation system, satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity and 18 inch wheels. The park assist system can also be added to the sedan. There are also two luxury option packages available for the sedan-the Aruba and the Belize. These premium upgrade packages add a little Caribbean flare to the design and include premium wheels, walnut veneer trim, Homelink technology system and a genuine leather and wood steering wheel.

Combined speed sensitive steering along with independent front and rear suspension systems keep the 2008 Jaguar X-Type very responsive to the driver's commands and very well behaved on winding roads. The all wheel drive operates almost seamlessly and provides a smooth ride with outstanding traction control that easily manages inclement weather conditions and snow covered roads. If a lower than usual price tag attached to the prestige that accompanies owning a Jag is your driving force when purchasing a luxury sedan or wagon, this one will probably fit the bill. However, if you are seeking a responsive, performance based luxury sedan, there are other manufacturers that offer more bang for your buck-minus the leaping cat hood ornament

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Audi A8 2009 review

The 2009 Audi A8 is nothing to scoff at. With up to 450 horsepower, advanced sound system, and a number of innovative safety features, this carryover model is hard to beat. However, the introductory MSRP of $74,050 will limit some buyers. Nevertheless, the Audi A8 impresses in all other respects. This Audi's cutting edge features and sophisticated exterior are why media outlets like Autoweek are boasting about it. Motor Trend Magazine said that the A8 has a "comfortable ride" and "[quiet] sound-isolation package" as well.

Under the hood, the 2009 A8 can be fitted with either a 350 horsepower 4.2L V8 or an even more powerful 450 horsepower 6.0L W12. Buyers should be pleased with the choices and will be even more satisfied with the A8's fuel economy. With variable valve intake timing the model is able to moderate fuel consumption. That's why the 4.2L model gets 16 city MPG and 23 highway MPG, and the 6.0L selection gets 15 city MPG and 21 highway MPG. Compared to other high-performance sedans like the Jaguar S-Type, on the American market, the Audi A8's fuel efficiency is at the top of the list. The sport sedan's Space Frame is constructed completely from aluminum, making the entire weight significantly less than the competition and also putting less of a demand on the drivetrain.

Inside, the 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a music interface system that allows for iPod (or other MP3 brands) compatibility. The Audi DVD-based navigation system is standard, and automatic moisture-sensing windshield wipers include a sensor that can intelligently turn headlamps on and off. Dual-zone climate control is included on the base trim, while four-zone climate control is featured on the higher trims. Active head restraints are a modern safety feature that absorbs impact energy from the driver and passenger's heads instead of deflecting it. Dual-pane laminated safety glass makes it more difficult for intruders to break the windows, and the anti-theft vehicle alarm system can disengage the engine so that theft is impeded.

In general, the 2009 Audi A8 is a solid piece of machinery that is both contemporary and classic. Sophisticated technological features give the A8 a leg up on the competition. However, families on a budget will find that the A8 is simply not affordable. But, for those willing to shell out the cash, the A8 is worth the money. Its elegant and commanding exterior is more attractive than the majority of the competition as well.

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Acura MDX 2009 review

The 2009 Acura MDX is a four-door sport utility vehicle that is a carryover from the prior model year. This seven-passenger SUV includes a powerful engine, advanced navigation unit, and several features to enhance passenger comfort. This luxury model, compared on size to the Audi Q7, is both elegant and modern, with a streamlined, graceful exterior. Buyers can upgrade their 2009 MDX with a number of packages that include accessories like sophisticated entertainment equipment and a power liftgate. However, some potential buyers might be turned off by the high sticker price. Nevertheless, consumers can rest assured knowing that they will certainly be getting their money's worth.

Under the hood, the Acura MDX is fitted with an impressive 300 horsepower 3.7L V6 engine. While the engine has generous power, some consumers could be disappointed with the lack of options. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard and includes Sequential Sportshift. This feature creates smoother shifting, keeps the transmission in the appropriate gear, and can adapt to manual mode for more driver control. Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive improves handling in high-performance circumstances. For example, when going around a curve, the SH-AWD will select the proper gear and hold it, rather than switching in the middle of a turn. Also, the Acura MDX gets around 15 city MPG and 20 highway MPG - around the median fuel efficiency for a mid-size SUV.

Inside, the 2009 MDX includes tri-zone climate control. This allows the driver, front passenger, and rear passengers to each control the climate to meet their specific needs. Steering wheel mounted controls let the driver connect to the Bluetooth system, adjust the volume or radio station, and access the navigation system directly from the steering wheel. A multi-informational display is located in the instrument cluster. This digital readout will alert drivers when maintenance is needed on their MDX and if a tire has too much or too little pressure.

One of the biggest selling features of the 2009 MDX is the Acura Navigation System. Available with the upgrade to either the Technology or Sport Package, this in-dash navigation unit includes an eight-inch LCD screen and a voice recognition system. The voice recognition can understand commands and automatically insert the data into the unit, without a driver even having to lift a finger. AcuraLink Real-time Traffic will provide drivers with up-to-date traffic reports, and the Zagat Survey feature can give owners restaurant suggestions in the area. However, buyers should be aware that even with the purchase of an upgrade package that includes the nav unit, the extra features on the system expire after 90 days and require a fee-based subscription to continue services.

Overall, the 2009 Acura MDX includes a great number of features that are sure to impress even the most discriminating buyers. However, families on a budget might be hard pressed to come up with the $40,790 base price. Not only that, but with only one engine and transmission choice, those that are looking to customize a drive train will need to look elsewhere. Of course, for buyers that are searching for cutting edge technology and driver and passenger comfort, the Acura MDX is hard to beat.интим знакомства форум

Dodge Challenger 2009 review

The 2009 Dodge Challenger is a modern replica of the original muscle car of the 1970s. This contemporary muscle car has only minor changes from the previous model year, but the trim levels have been changed to the SE, R/T, and SRT8. The two-door Challenger retains its bold, muscle car design, but adds new and improved engines, enhanced fuel economy, and a more affordable price for the average buyer. Overall, Dodge has stayed true to the Challenger's beginnings, and muscle car enthusiasts are happy with this modern reinvention's homage to the past.

Under the hood, buyers get three different choices: a 3.5L high-output SOHC V6, a 5.7L HEMI V8, or a 6.1L SRT HEMI V8. The base level engine produces an impressive 250 horsepower, while the SRT HEMI can reach around 425 horsepower. With power like that, only the Shelby Mustang GT500KR is in the starting blocks to match it. The SRT HEMI also produces about 420-lb per foot of torque, so buyers that reminisce on the superior power in the muscle cars of the old days won't be disappointed. A four-speed automatic gives drivers a bit more ease than the five-speed autostick, but the autostick provides more adaptation and control than the pure automatic. An available six-speed manual transmission with hill start assist provides the 2009 Challenger with the true muscle car power experience.

Several retro-inspired color choices are available ranging from a sleek, glossy "Brilliant Black Crystal Pearl" to a vibrant, daring "TorRed." The SRT8's paintjob also includes bold black racing stripes down the center line of the hood. Inside the 2009 Challenger is an optional MyGIG Multimedia System. This technologically advanced system features a built-in USB drive that can store up to 30 GB of music or photos. The LCD display screen is controlled by touch, and GPS navigation and SIRIUS Satellite Radio come with the system. A memo recorder is included as well, so that any important information can be remembered at the touch of a button (or LCD screen). A Bluetooth handsfree phone system is built in to the MyGIG program as well, so any important calls can be taken even while cruising down the highway.

Unfortunately, estimated fuel ratings haven't been released yet for this model. However, most buyers aren't seeking to purchase a 2009 Dodge Challenger for its fuel efficiency; rather, they are attracted to the generous power, vintage styling, and technological features. Also, base priced at $21,995, the 2009 Dodge Challenger is an affordable tribute to the classic muscle car. As a result, single buyers or families at almost any price point will find that owning a piece of history can be easy on the wallet.

Infiniti FX45 2008 review

The 2008 Infiniti FX45 melds elegance, security, and durability in one elegant package. However, with a base MSRP of $51,000, it is not likely that most people will get to partake in the Infiniti FX45 experience. Infiniti boasts that the FX45 is an SUV that is designed like a sports car. Nevertheless, no matter how Infiniti tries to promote the SUV, it is definitely not a sports car. The FX45 is fitted with a powerful V8 engine and exhibits admirable handling on the road. On the other hand, the high rear window provides limited visibility, and the gas mileage simply cannot compete with many other crossovers on the market.

A massive 320 horsepower is produced from the FX45's 4.8L V8 engine. The usually optional all-wheel drive is standard on this model as well. Not only that, a superior 5-speed automatic transmission comes standard too. Though the 2008 version is much like its predecessor, there have been some minimal changes. Sport-tuned suspension has been installed. A Bluetooth Phone System has also been implemented. A universal garage door opener has been installed, and a sunroof comes standard on the FX45.

With only 13 city MPG and 17 highway MPG, the FX45 is simply not taking fuel economy seriously. Also, a competitive hybrid SUV like the GMC Yukon Hybrid can be purchased for around the same price, and it will get way above the FX45's estimated gas mileage.

If high price and poor gas mileage do not bother you, the 2008 Infiniti FX45 may make up for what it lacks with both interior and exterior elegance. 20-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, aluminum roof rails, and exterior chrome accents give the FX45 a sleek, sharp look on the road. In the interior, inlaid rosewood trim, aluminum pedals, and massive overhead storage provide a luxurious ride.

Never mind that the 2008 Infiniti FX45 looks great, it simply cannot beat its competitors when it comes to price and fuel economy. The concept of going green is sweeping across car lots nationwide; however, Infiniti seems to have been left out of the loop. Just because Infiniti is supposedly a higher-end maker that does not mean that they get a free pass when it comes to using up an expensive resource. If buyers are conscious of the superior competition, they'll definitely go with an SUV other than the Infiniti FX45.