Toyota shooting for Nurburgring EV Lap record on August 29

Toyota has reportedly announced it will attempt to smash the existing electric vehicle lap record at the famed Nürburgring Nordschleife on August 29.

The current electric vehicle lap record at the 'Ring stands at 9 minutes and 1.338 seconds, a time that Toyota says it has already beaten during informal testing. On August 29, Toyota will hit the track with a battery-powered two-seater that

2012 Scion iQ

Moped car have always insisted that you make concessions to the absurd. Most of them seem to be a circus clown car or get it to behave like a circus clown. Generally, they are pitifully small and slow. And there was always something derogatory term for them is going through the windshield clamshell phone for entry or curled up next to the adjacent halves. Although it may be the perfect collection of microbes, or to read microfiche, motorcycle car have traditionally been impractical. But what if you could design one to behave like a real car? Then you should Scion iQ.




Often the only climb in the cockpit iQ is convinced that this is not looking for the opportunity to be different. But the wide doorways, low thresholds and anatomical seat to dispel the doubts you may have about convenience and comfort.

Once started, the first positive reaction iQ continue if the gains speed quickly and quietly. A width of 53 inches from the cockpit is enough for the iQ feel like a compact sedan. Due to its 10 meter length is 18 inches longer than the smart car, it also has enough storage space behind you to help the IQ of a car at the weekend for a couple realistic. Of course, the use of the 16.7 cubic feet of space forces the rear seats fold flat. If not, limited internal storage, only 3.5 cubic feet.

While the bills as a Scion iQ 3 +1, which will never be more than 3 adults in the car at that time. The passenger seat is actually located in front of the driver's seat to make room for the rear passenger's legs, enough to sneak in the back. The "a" Addendum to be an animal, an infant or an elf.




If the car is only 94 bhp available, the iQ is very mischievous. In a straight line acceleration, Scion seems faster than the Fiat 500 or the Chevy Volt, in particular, 0-30 mph in either direction from the General. The reason for the iQ charging start-up is exceptionally low curb weight is 2127 pounds. A couple of fly-weights of the body structure is the multiplication of the instantaneous torque continuously variable transmission provided by the iQ, and you have the perfect formula for a strong gas. Since the constraints of packaging, manual transmission is offered to the Scion, but the CVT does not manumatic action game, you can afford the choice of engine speed ranges. Top speed is 100 mph iQ.

With a car that weighs just over one tonne, the iQ is a flyweight boxing in a ring full of trucks. Therefore, Scion has 11 airbags stuffed in this tiny module to allay fears about the survival of an accident. In fact, even the trunk lid has the airbag first time there.

Often overlooked part of the credit collapse of the ability of the vehicle to avoid a first. Here, the iQ is bright thanks to a clear go-kart handling. Very telling statistic here is the iQ a radius of 12.7 meters big break. Although most of the compact sedans to make a good turnaround within the normal two-lane road, the iQ could be a couple of them in the same state.

At one point during my test drive, I found a small diameter traffic roundabout. The Scion was so anxious to temper all the obstacle that I managed to turn the island warm up three times without a single correction to the fat, red stitched leather steering wheel.

Scion iQ to prove that the cars moped does not need to be a slow, disruptive or impractical. 2012 iQ goes on sale in 7 different colors $ 15,995 in California, Washington, Oregon and Arizona October 1, 2011. Sales outside the United States later.



ENGINE: 1.3 liter DOHC inline 4 with VVT-I
HORSEPOWER: 94hp at 6000rpm
TORQUE: 89 lb.-ft, at 4400rpm
TRANSMISSION: CVT
FUEL CONSUMPTION: 36 MPG City/37 MPG Highway
PRICE AS TESTED: $15,995

2012 Volkswagen Eos Lux

The last time I even thought of a convertible VW was drooling over high school cheerleader hot blonde with a white rabbit based on a '87 convertible with soft top correspondents. So when my editor called the Eos was in conflict. It brings back some fun memories high school, but I also had to decide whether I was man enough to drive a car chick. I'm glad I said yes. The Eos is the top end of the range VW convertible, mezzanine, starting with the top New Beetle soft and the forthcoming Euro-only (for now) 2012 Golf Cabrio Convertible Top. The new VW Eos Lux was fun to drive with the top up or down. Usually, the model of mid-cycle refresh is focused primarily on the guts, with minor updates only outside, but the 2012 VW Eos has received a facelift quite large, and it is better for her. No more rounded headlights with chrome grille with vertical taillights stretched round match, and companies are new VW see both front and rear.

The new design is more sophisticated and less fun than the original EOS. 2.0 turbo four mated to carry more than 6-speed automatic Tiptronic and Sport mode.



Driving Impressions
Frankly, I was not enthusiastic about driving in Eos. Playing with the folding hardtop, yes, but driving FWD 4-banger was not as attractive to me. But I was pleasantly surprised. Remove the shifter in sport mode and floor the accelerator and you'll be redlining in a short time and take off. Yes, I have been burning rubber on the line in this sub-compact four-cylinder Eos FWD.

The turbo allows, but 207 pounds-feet of torque at 5,000 rpm to 1,800 that makes driving fun Eos. The HP 200 is 5100 RPM and passing cars on the road was a breeze. For its size, the Eos is quite heavy, with its hard parts of the hood 5, and 00 to 60 were fixed in 7.3 seconds. But it feels faster than that. Torque is a typical problem of high-powered FWD cars, but not too noticeable in the Eos. I guess that's not exactly qualify as "great power". But hey, you do not buy the Eos for performance. There are many other peaks decreased performance, as the Nissan 370Z or BMW Z4.

Driving with the Eos hardtop lowered it was fun. Yes, it messes up your hair and, well, rear passengers lots of wind in your face, but it is not so common these days can be divided into a convertible loan to drive, with three other passengers. I was actually able to fit the child seat (after half an hour and a lot of swear words), and took my son for a ride. He does not like as much as me (too windy), but I can not do it, Z4. Eos is also unique in the sunroof option, which is great and you can tilt or open the car simply as a hardtop.

Styling
In 2012, the Eos is a significant improvement on the car first generation in terms of external appearance. As I mentioned in the intro, the front end is much more sophisticated on the new VW grille range of businesses such as golf and projector units. The original rounded headlights with chrome plated face always bothered me. Too cute. The squared-off lights in the back are also much more expensive than the previous round units. Other than that, the overall proportions and form of the Eos will remain the same.

Lack of B-pillar is ideal for visibility and gives the Eos a clean profile with the top. I hope that the proportions were better prepared, but the Eos is a little too short, especially with the sloping rear window that looks like it fast to move in the greenhouse. FWD architecture means a long overhang of the front axle is sitting well aft of the engine. Volvo C70 hardtop convertible also has a long overhang, but the longer length and wheelbase Volvo C70 gives a much better with the hood. The Eos is certainly more attractive with the top down.



Interior Comfort and Ergonomics
The interior of 2012 Eos is refined and the quality of materials is what one would expect from a $ 39k car. There are leather on most surfaces with metallic button accents driver in all the right places. Lux Executive and moldings also come with walnut on the dashboard, doors and center console. I do not even know what bramble means but it seems expensive. 12-adjustable front seats with lumbar support 4-finish is also available and Lux ​​Executive.



Steering wheel controls are not too big a mess and give the driver a reasonable amount of telephony, audio, cruise control, menu options, and the device touch screen NAV / audio in the center console is intuitive and easy to reach. New VW interior feels rich, but not decadent, if anything makes sense. When the internal folding hard roof is fairly quiet, one can hardly say that this car must be replaced. Installation of the roof is sound. The visibility of the sides is fantastic thanks to the lack of B pillars

Value
Base shear Eos Komfort starts just under $ 34k, and top-of-the-range executive begins to cut a little 'more than $ 39k. Beautifully equipped tester was a mid-level trim, and Lux, MSRPs TAD of more than $ 38k with destination. His closest competitors are probably the Saab 9-3 Convertible Volvo C70 hardtop convertible and folding, both of which are more expensive. Eos is the lowest starting price for the three and is very competitive, even at the executive level trim. The Volvo C70 has a turbocharged five-cylinder that produces 27 horsepower more, but starts at $ 39k. The 9-3 is also a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder turbo, but it's a little 'bit slower than the Eos, and starts just under $ 40k for the guides, and more than $ 41k or car. And it is only a soft fold.



Drop-Top Cars are Fun
In 2012, Volkswagen Eos is a great little four-seater convertible. The folding hardtop is fun to watch and reminds me of Transformers. Its unique roof that opens make a nice car, even when it is not out so hot. I even had fun driving the front wheel drive with a 4 cylinder 2.0. On top of that it is a good deal when compared to Volvo and Saab. So what if the proportions are a little awkward with the top, you would not see that since you have the pleasure of cruising the boulevard. And with the top down, you would be too busy smiling with wind in your hair. The VW Eos is a great improvement over the white convertible led the cheerleader in high school, but boy I miss seeing her go with friends from other cheerleader standing on the rear hold the basket signature handle bar reversal.

+ Plus :
* Surprisingly fast acceleration
* Revised styling is more sophisticated
* Refined interior & build quality

- Minus
* Proportions are a bit awkward with the top up
* Automatic hardtop takes patience
* Small trunk space

SEIKO Prospex MARINE MASTER 'Blue Ocean' SBBN021

By TLex To celebrate their 130th anniversary, SEIKO have just recently released another version of their famous shrouded diver. The 'Blue Ocean' SBBN021 shares the same specifications with its quartz powered sibling the SBBN013. And I would imagine the same ceramic material is used for its glossy blue shroud as the 'White Dolphin'.

Features of the 'Blue Vader' include: a 49.33mm x 15.3mm titanium case with 1000 meters of water-resistance and a sapphire crystal. The watch is a limited edition of just 400 pieces; that's 300 for Japan and only 100 for everyone else. It will go on sale in Japan from August 12th priced at ¥250'500.

FRED Gladiateur COLLECTOR

By TLex It's a pretty fine line, the line between men's jewelry and luxury dive watches. If we are honest about it, most of men's dive watches are worn as jewelry anyway. So perhaps it wasn't inconceivable that, FRED, a prestigious jewelry brand from Paris would create such a nice looking divers model. The brand was set up in the 1930s by Fred Samuel (a jeweler's name if ever there was one), who soon took the Fred brand to greatness.



The interestingly named 'Gladiateur Collector' is a name that no doubt embodies the spirit of the type of man, who would wear such a watch whilst wrestling giant squid! The collection consists of both men's and women's divers models, that have been constructed from either stainless steel or 18kt rose gold. The watch cases, which have a water-resistance of 200 meters measure 44mm for the men's XL models and 40mm for ladies models.



There are two dial colors: black or white. The textured rubber divers strap comes in three colors: black, white or a chocolate brown to compliment the rose gold versions. Something of a rarity and arguably the finest feature of the Gladiateur Collector line is its use of a C.O.S.C ZENITH El Primero caliber. However this is only for the solid 18kt rose gold version, which incidentally has a black carbon fiber dial for that extra sporty touch. I'm not sure what movements the other models are using; I would make a guess at ETA.



Aesthetically the watches are pretty clean and stylish. There's some really lovely work on the bezels and I quite like the clockwork toy-type crown winding set-up. I could well live without the Cartier style cabochon sapphire, which the crown has been set with. What did I expect, it's jewelry, right! Finally the obligatory diamond set, white dial / white strap combo for the discerning girl or that daring chap. Prices range from 2'700 - 28,600€.

2011 Mitsubishi ASX

Preservation of the Concept-cX is a "small wedge" design concept to push the edge of the light side, the general shape has been optimized, which is the best to use a longer wheelbase and 14.5 cm (2.67 m with 2.525 m) to create a lower profile and more balanced with better integration of the fender flares. This is now the roof line goes to the rear of the car to improve aerodynamic performance (Cd 0.32), and continues to emphasize its dynamic profile.

Combat Jet grille looks identical to the Lancer and Outlander. However, it is now framed by a paper clip main research, to combine with a cup-shaped with a double pump: this has the dual aim of helping to improve pedestrian safety, despite the overhang, and also the body more visible to drivers, improving maneuverability in the city.



At the rear, the aim was both to reduce and enlarge the figure, to avoid chunkiness due to wrong court, therefore, very aerodynamic lip at the bottom of the lighting, lamps, and fine canvas the great collaboration trapezoidal recess license plate in between.

Dynamic quality

In the notion of a strong sporty elegance continues in the form of a clear focus on and cut the material instead of the endless quest for models usually seen Ness.

According to the outside, the interior reflects Mitsubishi ASX a clear sense of the "dynamic quality", expressed through the gauge cluster hood is shared with the Outlander, the soft padding around the panel extends to the central parity edge of the door and carefully applied silver accents on each side of the audio system or along the door panels.

At the same time, elements such as chromium round of the module to avoid the gear, the inspiration of bicycles and silver accents on both sides of the console, and meters.

Logically, textures and materials were chosen to perform the same key on the right and appearance. Although the interior color scheme is based on a single quarter note, the use of contrasting textures and materials has been done to gain momentum.

In this context, particular attention was paid to the areas affected by the occupiers softcover. This has led to the development of a new type of full two-tone contrasting textures so stylish and sporty.



The same approach applies to the upholstery of the seats where the designers at Mitsubishi and its partners in the textile industry has created a new fabric embossed to add to the overall feel of quality sporting and dynamic, adding black interior 3D Theatre, discreet.

The last vehicle of the MMC developed the "Project Global" platform through, ASX Mitsubishi Lancer intends to mix in the way of the Outlander with the attitude of the driving position and comfort with its electronically controlled four-AWC Smart wheel drive.

Share your wheelbase is 2.67 meters long Outlander, Mitsubishi ASX brief focuses on the structure of 34.5 cm below the Outlander as well as the basic structure of the frame (MacPherson strut front, multilink rear suspension) very attentive to the most small and light.

A significant improvement is the introduction of a mechanism for electric power steering to even lower emissions, it also has adjustments for tilt and depth, the latter being the first of the current range of vehicles from Mitsubishi Motors.



Courtesy of all-inclusive electronic architecture, "Project Global" platform, Mitsubishi ASX offers a complete range of safety equipment and bribery, such as (availability depending on model and market):

* 160 ˚ Super-Human Interface "broader vision" xenon lights

Active Stability Control *

* Traction control
* Hill Start Assist
* ABS
* Electronic Brake Distribution
* Brake Assist
* A system of emergency stop signals
* 7 airbags (including driver's knee airbag)
* Reducing the impact MIVEC Diesel

The final factor in the strategy of Greentech MMC, Mitsubishi ASX will also inaugurate a new family of all-aluminum, DOHC 16V 4-cylinder common rail direct injection, "low impact" Euro 5 diesel engine, developed jointly by Mitsubishi Motors Corporation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. (MHI), the latter offers - among others - the technical expertise gained through industry experience and technology of diesel engines and gas turbines.

Initially available with 1.8-liter form - the first Mitsubishi ASX, and later in the second half of 2010 and related to the Lancer family - this is the "4N13" a number of power plants is a derivative of the MMC and the motor gasoline for the latest features and technologies, including a new turbocharger and variable consumption characteristics of application MMC and MHI proprietary analytic techniques.



Highlight this system is a unique showcase for the technological variable valve timing MIVEC Mitsubishi, the world's first diesel engine for passenger cars.

Of strategic importance in Europe against the best competitors in a highly competitive segment, the operating system, 1798 cc very good "4N13" Mitsubishi MIVEC diesel low power even more support in their work environment through the adoption - in standard on all versions - a full range of low CO2 ClearTec:

* "Automatic Stop & Go"
* Closed the flow of particles
* Electric Power Steering
* Generation Control System
* LED tail lights (low consumption)
* Low resistance tires

At the same time, customers who want an alternative to petrol Mitsubishi ASX has also proposed a new 1.6-liter DOHC MIVEC 16V, one for home building, this time in its 1.5-liter engine mounted on a Mitsubishi Colt. Mitsubishi ASX in this application will be available in the entire package ClearTec and gives a 5-speed manual.

Salon Style

Discreet, Mitsubishi ASX interior is also a very comfortable life, even if its appearance, function or duties.

Make the best use of its long wheelbase of 2.67 m, 5-seater Mitsubishi ASX offers a full range of tools adapted to the size and load requirements of its potential customers are likely to 416 L around the corner of the back seat of 17 degrees (forward position) (393L, the backrest angle of 23 degrees) of the trunk
* Adjustable backrest
* Rear Armrest:

o ski slot or cup
* Rear 60/40 split,
* Easy back seat sometimes,
* The soil in the container (about 30 l)
* Convenience hooks + lighting

A sense of life, first with ASX see the glass ceiling: the first Mitsubishi Motors is a large glass panel with UV protection is so well during the day (top) and night (when moon roof) courtesy of the surroundings "Moonlight" LED lighting that frames it. The panoramic glass roof is standard with a visor.

This is also a concrete, even if the host device, even the base model with standard components, such as: radio with CD player w/MP3, AUX-in and four speakers, manual air conditioning, seven airbags, stability control and active systems traction control, etc.

Further up the line, automatic climate control, rain and dusk sensors, cruise control, multifunction steering wheel, parking radar to monitor, Bluetooth ™ and USB, tinted windows, HID Super "broader vision" xenon lights, operation without a key, the engine stops, start button skin, the Mitsubishi Multi Communication System with HDD navigation system with music server, Rockford Fosgate ™ premium audio, etc., are also available in the Mitsubishi ASX.

Toyota Yaris

The Yaris is a very competent small car that both versatile and reliable. A choice of three body styles and five doors, the highest reliability and the interior is spacious and practical. There is a choice of three engines, all of which are very cheap to run. This is not the cheapest car to buy small, but the Toyota Yaris is a good all-rounder.



Drive
If you plan to use the Yaris for highway or road trips regularly, while 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine probably not for you. It only provides 68bhp and a slow acceleration. The most recent gasoline engine 1.33 liter is much stronger - it has 100 hp and is better suited for a car of this size. The 89bhp 1.4 liter diesel is the fastest of all and is extremely cheap to run. Do not expect to be excited by the Yaris, in any form, however, that the light control is easy to use, but will not appeal to fans of driving.

Comfort
Previous Yaris is not known for comfort, but Toyota made a big effort to improve the current car. There is no more space in every direction, and front seat passengers and the floor flat in the back offers space for the legs. Suspension Toyota can still be a little 'nervous though - it bounces over bumps and rough roads, especially when it has large wheels.



Reliability
Do not let the horror stories to scare others, such as the Toyota Yaris is well known for excellent reliability. The company now offers a five-year/100 0.000 miles warranty fully insure their customers. The interior is well screwed together, although part of the dashboard plastics look pretty cheap.

Prcaticality
It's small, but the Yaris has a handy inside. The sliding rear bench seat is very flexible - you can drag it back to change the prejudices between the start space and legroom in the rear. With the rear seats upright and pushed as you go, there are still 257 liters of luggage available. Most of its city rival Toyota is easy to improve, but the slide fully forward and a huge 640 liters is released. The rear seats completely flat, even, creating a very useful tool chamber 737 liters



Value for Money
Unfortunately, the Yaris has a list price slightly higher than most of its major competitors. It is expensive to buy than other small cars like the Skoda Fabia and even some versions over the Opel Astra. Resale values ​​hard work for Yaris, however, and you can expect good service and strong after-sales support of Toyota dealers.

Running Costs
No Yaris is expensive to run. Both gasoline engines will cost a measly £ 30 a year road tax, because they emit 118g/km and 120g/km of CO2 respectively. 1.0-liter version will return 56.5mpg on average, but the 1.33-liter engine is almost as good at 55.4mpg - which is less waste for extra power. Opt for the diesel for cars of the final budget, however. You will receive a wallet friendly 68.9mpg on average and road tax costs £ 20 per year.

+ Plus:
* Improved reliability
* The engines are cheap to run
* Practical design

- Minus:
* It is not so cheap to buy competitors
* Unexciting driving experience
* Entry-level engine is slow