The Hyundai Sonata

Hyundai has been making plenty of changes lately. While the Korean automaker has been here in the US since the late 1980s, it has recently gained plenty of momentum, and attention, from American consumers. With incredible value, modern styling, and robust warranties, Hyundai cars and SUVs are becoming increasingly popular. One model that's crucial to the lineup is the 2009 Hyundai Sonata. The Hyundai Sonata gets a modest update for this year, with interior and exterior changes, and even more power. So the question is, is it good enough to battle the likes of the Toyota Camry and Honda Accord?

The Hyundai Sonata's biggest advantage has always been its value, as with many of Hyundai's models according to a Cheyenne Hyundai dealer. The Sonata in particular features air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and door locks, CD stereo, and much more as standard on the GLS. The Sporty SE model adds larger wheels and a sport suspension. The Limited is the top of the line model, and has heated leather seats, sunroof, universal garage door opener, and Bluetooth connectivity.

Additionally, a Boston Hyundai dealer points out that safety is a big component of what makes the Sonata a strong contender asa family hauler. The sedan offers dual front airbags, front side airbags, curtain airbag, ABS brakes with brake assist, traction control, and electronic stability control, and active front head restraints.

The base engine that powers the Hyundai Sonata is a 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with continuously variable valve timing. The engine now produces 175 horsepower and 168 lb ft of torque for 2009. Mated to either a five speed manual or a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting capabilities, the 2009 Sonata is capable of achieving strong fuel economy as well. Expect 22/32 mpg with the automatic transmission.

Many Illinois Hyundai Sonata buyers are also expected to opt for the larger Lambda 3.3 liter V6 engine, which features 249 horsepower and 229 lb ft of torque for 2009. The larger engine is only mated to a five-speed automatic transmission with the ability to shift manually. Additionally, fuel economy with the V6 is 19 mpg city and 29 mpg on the highway.

Inside the Hyundai Sonata's cabin, Hyundai Chicago drivers will find a really comfortable interior, with quality materials and a modern design. The dash, center console, and doors feature quality materials that have soft surfaces and provide a quality look and feel that adds surprising value.

The interior not only features quality materials, but Hyundai Philadelphia notes there's always plenty of room in the front and the rear. Although the Sonata competes with the midsize sedan segment, the EPA technically classifies it as a large car thanks to its vast interior space.

Driver and passengers at Hyundai Texarkana also have no complaints when it comes to the Hyundai Sonata's storage space. The center console, for example, features a large cubby for storage, while the doors and also offer cavernous pockets. There are even entertainment options, thanks to standard iPod connectivity, and even a USB port and auxiliary input jack to connect a variety of devices.

With ample trunk space, the Sonata can also haul a variety of cargo. The opening of the space is not terribly large, but coupled with a standard 60/40 split-folding rear seat there should be enough room for longer objects. There are also genuine Hyundai parts available to help organize cargo and prevent it from moving while underway.

Riding in the new Hyundai Sonata is smooth and compliant. Kia dealers Denver points out that both Hyundai and Kia vehicles have managed to drastically improve their driving dynamics in recent years, making them fun to drive. Interior noise is also quiet, making the cabin a comfortable place even at highway speeds. Although it's not the sportiest vehicle in its segment, the steering, handling, and brake feel should be up to par with most drivers. The boost in power for 2009 also helps to make the latest Sonata a bit more fun to drive.

The 2009 Hyundai Sonata is priced several thousand dollars below its competition according to Hyundai Car Loans, which makes the Sonata a high value choice among buyers who are looking at popular models such as the Accord and Camry.

About the Author

Joe Kent is a writer for TK Carsites, an automotive website design and marketing firm in Orange, CA, that specializes in working with car dealers nationwide.

The Vehicle of the Future?

In a world seemingly obsessed with finding renewable energy sources, solar power has become a common feature in day-to-day life. Although the technology was initially released before it was fully tested, and therefore gained a poor reputation for reliability, since the turn of the Millennium it has grown in stature and promise. One can forgive the scientists behind the development for this over-eagerness in releasing what could one day be a primary resource for fuel and power in the modern world, especially as the majority of the kinks are now ironed out.

It is therefore natural that many are considering the possibility of solar powered vehicles. With the non-renewable fossil fuels being consumed by motorists at a rate that the planet will soon no longer be able to supply, the idea of having a car entirely powered by solar powers is an intriguing one.

It is not, however, a particularly new one. Almost since the invention of solar panels, pioneering developers have been trying to find a way to harness the technology for the car. The idea of being able to run a car with no emissions and no consumption of fossil fuels would indeed be arguably the biggest leap in engineering since the Wright brothers, but is it really possible?

The steps are beginning to be made. For example, Toyota - who market the worlds most popular hybrid vehicle, the Prius - are said to be considered installing solar panels on new versions of the Prius. However, the panels will only be used to power the air conditioning and electrical systems. While this is advancement in the general concept, it isn't the finished article.

In truth, solar powered cars do exist. Powering a vehicle by the force of the sun alone is possible, but the problems arise in the practicalities. Two annual races currently exist for solar powered vehicles only, the World Solar Challenge and North American Solar Challenge. However, many of the competitors are engineering under and post graduates, as well as technologically minded individuals. The notable absence in these races is in the big car manufacturers, the people who genuinely could make solar powered vehicles a reality for all.

The question is then, if a solar powered vehicle is possible, will it ever replace the standard combustion engine? The issue is open for debate, but it would seem unlikely. Toyota may have implemented the concept of solar panels to power electrics and air conditioning, but perhaps only after trying to power the entire vehicle with solar energy and failing.

The main flaw in solar powered vehicles is size. To get the most out of the suns rays, a lot of solar powers are needed, far more than can ever be fit onto an actual car. From the small space available, it is perfectly possible to generate the necessary power from the sun to power the electric engine of a car, but only for very short distances and in sunny conditions. The idea, it would seem, will remain a fun experiment for mechanical students, and the ever popular races will continue. However, under current ideas for solar vehicles, it is unlikely your family hatchback is going to come complete with solar panels any time in the future.

Enjoy your car and find the best deal on the insurance coverage you need. Visit us for money-saving tips, no-obligation auto insurance comparisons and advice for finding affordable insurance rates at Auto Insurance Rates Direct.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn

The Chrysler Grand Voyager

Everything you need to know about Chrysler's latest people carrier

On the other side of the pond, Chrysler's Grand Voyager would be known as a mini-van; over here, however, we call it a people carrier. France's Renault Espace made the people carrier sexy in the mid eighties. And the larger car has remained a firm favourite with families ever since.

The whole concept was very much stolen from Chrysler, which created the whole mini-van segment in the early 1980s. And with their experience spanning almost 30 years, you'd expect the latest Grand Voyager to be pretty good.

Get the look

The styling is far more box-like than before, but bizarrely this actually improves the aerodynamics. It's not a handsome car, but we are talking about a vehicle where function counts for more than form.

Most improvements are inside the cabin. New finishes and wood trim line the dash board and door panels, while overhead a halo lighting package emits a glow along the console without distracting the driver. Gadgets include a rechargeable torch in the rear cargo area.

Sit tight

But the Grand Voyager's real masterpiece is the ingenious Stow 'n' Go seating system. It's easy to operate and allows the car to be transformed from a seven-seat people carrier to a two-person cargo vehicle in less than 30 seconds. Best of all is the fact the seats store flat in the floor, so there's no need to lug them into the garage like a Sharan or a Galaxy.

Stow 'n' Go is pretty good, but now there's also Swivel 'n' Go, available on the upmarket Limited-badged models. This includes floor storage bins and second-row captain's chairs that swivel 180 degrees to face rearward. Add a removable table that fits between the second and third rows so you have a mobile dining room!

Gadgets galore

People carriers are all about people and the Grand Voyager comes with an entertainment system that would put an airliner to shame. A dual DVD system can play up to three different types of media at the same time, so passengers in one row can watch a movie, while those in the other can plug in their gaming systems. Eight-inch LCD screens are fitted in the second and third rows and there's a remote control for the DVD player. You can also plug in your iPod and a touch-screen and voice-controlled navigation system complete the gadgetry.

Compared to the old model, refinement is much improved. Wind noise is reduced, the stiffened body means less vibration and a new suspension system has helped improve stability and ride comfort. The turbo diesel engine develops 161bhp but this is a big vehicle and it's a little sluggish to get going. An automatic gearbox is standard.

Special effects

Specification levels are high. Even the basic model gets convenient features like power sliding rear doors on both sides of the vehicle and keyless entry. Put to use as a family vehicle, it contains plenty of well thought out practical features, such as the odour and stain resistant cloth used to cover the seating surfaces for the LX and Touring trim.

Safety improvements see standard traction control, brake assist and side-curtain airbags that add to the multistage front and seat-mounted bags. A tyre pressure monitoring system is also included.

Money talks

The vehicle offers flexibility, masses of space and generous equipment. Prices start at £25,456 for the diesel powered LX. Touring models cost a couple of thousand more and the top-spec Limited is £32,300 whether you go for diesel or the V6 petrol. Top speed on the diesel is 115mph and you should expect around 30mpg. Car Insurance groups range from 11-13 depending on the model.

All that's left to do now, is round up the people!

Find cheap car insurance on http://www.confused.com/. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kate_Tee

The 1967 Camaro

The mid 1960’s were an exciting in the world of American automotive production. The emergence of the muscle car was in full swing. With the introduction of the Ford Mustang in late 1964 the country was ripe for the muscle and Chevy was right there hitting the mark with the brand new Camaro. There are few cars from this period in history that have as much wide spread recognition and fame as the 1967 Camaro. From casual observers to hard core gear heads on to professional car collectors the first generation Camaro instantly captured the hearts and minds of the American public.

Like many automotive model launches of the day Chevrolet really poured on the media and marketing. Perhaps taking a tip from it’s biggest competitor the 1967 Camaro was the official pace car for the 1967 Indianapolis 500, very much like the Mustang was just a few years earlier. The Indy 500 promotion was a big one including dozens of special "Pace" cars specially made for race officials and celebrities to drive to promotions and events in the months leading up to the race. There was also a "Pacesetter" package that Chevy dealerships were able to create if they chose to.

Another big moment in the promotion of the 1967 Camaro turned out to be a first for the news media as well. For the first time ever, in the final days of June, 1966, a news conference was held live in 14 cites. This feat was accomplished by hooking up these cities together by telephone lines and had never been done before. Looking back this seems like child’s play from today’s standards but back in the 60’s this was quite a marvel! In addition to this there was a six minute television promotion, on top of newspaper and radio ads, that let the American public know they were in for something special.

The name Camaro was figured to be a good choice by the folks at Chevy because nobody had any idea what the heck it meant! When the press asked some of the project managers what the name stood for they replied, "It’s a small, vicious animal that east Mustangs." It was statements like that that really helped fuel the Mustang vs. Camaro rivalry which, arguably, worked out to more sales for both Ford and Chevy.

Like most brand new car models the 1967 Camaro has several features and quirks that are only seen on the first model year. These tell tale signs often quickly disappear as they are replaced with better or upgraded items in the second year of production. These are the tips that car enthusiasts and collectors live for. The first day the 1967 model was up for sale to the general public was September 29th, 1966.

Here are just a three things to remember at your next car auction or show that were unique to the 1967 Camaro…

- The 1967 model had both rear shocks mounted in front of the rear axle. This was changed to the more familiar staged set up (one in front and one behind) in 1968.

- Side vent windows only appeared on the ’67 model.

- The VIN plate on the first year model was located on the door pillar and was later moved to the more standard dashboard location in ’68.

It’s at least arguable that the Camaro has seen more unofficial promotion than many of its competitors. There have been dozens of popular songs written about this car, not the least of which is everyone’s’ favorite "Bitchin Camaro" by the Dead Milkmen. Various years and models of the car have appeared in movies for decades although the most memorable is the 1967 Camaro featured in the 1985 John Cusack movie "Better Off Dead" which introduced a whole new generation to the fascination of the early years of this iconic car.

As the 2000’s roll on the Camaro is seeing yet another resurgence in popular culture and a whole new look. Chevy, and many other car makers, has decided to look back at their popular models of the past for inspiration on their new models and with some great results. The 2010 Camaro burrows heavily from its first generation ancestors and with great results. With the feature of a 1968 Camaro and a concept 2010 model in the blockbuster hit movie "Transformers" yet another generation of young folks have been exposed to the mania and excitement that is the Chevy Camaro. Thanks!

Bill runs OldCarRaffle.com and HarleyDavidsonRaffles.com where he posts Charity vehicle raffles free of charge. Feel free to stop by and say hello!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=BP_Kelly

The Jaguar E-Type

The Jaguar E-Type was launched at the 1961 Geneva motor show and had a production run that lasted 12 years finally ending in 1973. The Jaguar E-Type regularly and consistently appears in polls to rate the most beautiful cars ever, very often topping the list and at least appearing in the top ten.

The initial offering was a fantastic 265bhp, 150mph performance with acceleration to go with it and 18mpg average fuel consumption, all from a fully equipped touring/sports car. This kind of performance is impressive for cars built today and was a remarkable feat at the time as no other manufacturer had achieved these performance figures in its day. The initial form at its launch in 1961 was a 3.8 litre series one E Type, a 4.2 litre series two Jaguar E-Type in 1968 and in the end as a 5.3 V12 series three XKE the Jaguar E-type was a benchmark for the car industry throughout its production run.

If you're looking to buy a Jaguar E-Type then you basically have two options, either a restored or un-restored example.

When buying a Jaguar E-Type for restoration in theory this should be the easier route as you are looking for a car that you know needs work and expect you are going to see areas of the car that are quite frankly a mess. Also it can be quite difficult for the seller to describe an inaccurate picture of the work required. It is usual to be advised to find the worst car you can find to start with and use this as a comparison when looking at other potential Jaguar E-Types for restoration. If you're lucky and live in a warmer climate you may find your potential project car in good condition however in general the bodywork will be in a poor condition and require full restoration, the main selling point is that the car is complete (look out for a car in boxes - I guarantee that parts will be missing).

Other points that you need to be aware of are the conversion of Jaguar E-Type hard top coupes to roadsters (convertibles), this will significantly affect the value and also the road safety of the vehicle. Also be aware of matching numbers for the engine, gearbox and chassis - by this I mean the car is coming with the engine and gearbox originally supplied.

When buying a restored Jaguar E-Type you must do your homework on the potential cars you are looking to buy. A Jaguar E-Type with plenty of history is a good starting point but even then it helps to be of the mindset that the car could have problems. Any restoration by a reputable firm should have a photographic account of the work undertaken, don't just rely on receipts for large sums of money for work apparently undertaken. Look for a car that is used on a regular basis as a Jaguar E-Type was designed to be driven and a car that sits around can soon start to reverse any restoration work undertaken. If possible take someone with you with experience of buying a Jaguar E-Type and someone with mechanical knowledge. It also makes sense to look at more than one car - don't buy the first Jaguar E-Type you look at!

I hope you will find this guide useful for buying a Jaguar E-Type, it truly is an iconic car and a good example will give you a fantastic driving experience like no other classic car could.

Author Andrew Whitehead - a self confessed petrol head has owned numerous classic cars from fully restored to basket cases! He now has a website to fuel his passion in all things auto and if you're looking to buy a Jaguar E-Type please visit http://www.americanautobid.com/blog/ for further information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Andrew_Whitehead

The New Honda Hybrid Models

Though launched on the market as early as the 90s, Honda hybrid models started being promoted in the US only from 1999. The model called Honda Insight was the first one that became available to us buyers and soon Toyota Prius followed Honda's model. It seems that Honda's hybrid models enjoy high sales rates as well as the Toyota ones although in the United States Honda has taken the lead. One Honda hybrid that set a record in terms of selling in 2004 is the Civic Hybrid. This would explain why there were more than 100,000 of Honda's hybrids sold between 1999 and 2006. Most of these models went to owners in the United States, next come Japan, Europe and Canada.

The Accord Honda hybrids saw the market daylight in 2004. This way people could enjoy the Honda hybrid models more extensively and with a greater variety. It has presented the company in North America with quite a great deal of success and worldwide it has become a favorite among hybrid models. This particular model has 255 horse power, it is a V-6 car and it reduces the fuel consume a great deal.

The Civic Honda hybrids were launched in 2002 and it included an integrated motor assist system that proved magic in terms of increasing fuel efficiency. In 2006 this model was declared the Car of the Year in North America based on the advantages presented by design, safety, way of handling, satisfaction offered to drivers and value.

Getting back to the first Honda hybrids, the Insight was also fuel efficient and it took the lead in the car sales for about six years. It has been estimated that about a tank of 10 gallons can last for somewhere between six and seven hundred miles.

All in all, as it is the case with any other hybrid model, the Honda hybrids are also very environmentally friendly. The emission level they release into the air is lower and thus our urban environment is much more protected from this point of view. If more hybrids entered the market, there would also be a drop in the number of people who suffer from respiratory ailments. The only inconvenience that Honda hybrid models and other companies' designs share is that the batteries are toxic for the environment. Therefore, it is of utmost importance that we follow instructions to what it is allowed to do and what not with those batteries.

About the Author

For more information about the Honda hybrid and Toyota prius, check out our website

The1965 Ford Mustang

With the introduction of the Ford Mustang in the middle of 1964 there was a nation wide sensation. This was of course due to the nature of the car design however the manner in which the media was handled and the marketing blitz that took place before, during, and after the official launch. A huge turnout in positive newspaper reviews, numbering the thousands, and an appearance as the Official Pace Car of the 1964 Indianapolis 500 coupled with an attractive purchase price of around $2,300 launched the Mustang into the American automotive limelight.

1965 was the first full official year of production of the Mustang. In addition to the primary Coupe design several variations on this model were available on the 1965 Mustang. For example Ford introduced a Fastback model for the Mustang that year to augment the existing hardtop coupe and the convertible. Two famous variations on the Mustang appeared in 1965 as well. The famed Shelby Mustang first appeared at this time. A Shelby Mustang in 1956 was a Fastback model with no rear seat. The spare tire was located in the back in the area of the rear window and the gas tank flap had the Mustang icon on it. They also added some more power to the 289 engine getting it up to a 306. The second variation was the 1965 Mustang GT introduced in the second quarter of that year and at a cost an additional $165! The GT option was available on the coupe, convertible or fastback models and came with a few variations of its own. As for the power train there was a choice between a 225 horsepower or a 271 horsepower V-8 engine.

Another choice to be made was between a three or four speed manual transmission or an automatic transmission called the Cruise-O-Matic. All GT packages came with an upgraded instrument group, striping on the lower part of the body sides. Finished out with "GT" badges on the front fenders, large fog lights mounted inside the front grill and a dual exhaust the 1965 Mustang GT really stood out! While the Shelby and GT packages got a lot of attention during 1965 the coupe body style was what really sold. The Ford Motor Company had first anticipated sales of the 1965 Mustang to be some where around the 100,000 and let's just say they sold a few more than that!

The Mustang was produced to compete in the emerging muscle car segment at the time. While it's the main competition the 1960's were such cars as General Motors Camaro and Chryslers Barracuda the Ford Mustang is the only muscle car from that era that has seen a continuous production run. While this early Mustang earned wide acclaim and several recognitions perhaps the most memorable is the Tiffany Medal. Tiffany & Co. presented a medal each year for excellence in American design and the 1965 Mustang was the very first automobile ever to win this award. This Mustang remains a true favorite in the eyes of casual fans and collectors alike. With the emergence of many Mustang oriented car clubs, the growing population of Car Auctions on television and an overall increasing interest in classic cars the 1965 Mustang is sure to remain an American icon for generations to come.

Bill runs OldCarRaffle.com and HarleyDavidsonRaffles.com where he posts Charity vehicle raffles free of charge. Feel free to stop by and say hello!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=BP_Kelly

The Best Wheels For Your Vehicle

If you would like to give your vehicle a bit of an upgrade or you just want something new and exciting, you should look at getting new wheels! A new set of wheels can really change the whole look of the vehicle and can make you fall in love with your car or truck all over again. There are some big names in the business that you will find make high quality wheels that not only look great but will hold up well over time.

If you would like to put a nice set of wheels on your vehicle you will definitely want to consider Vellano wheels. This is one of the more prestigious names in the wheel business. Of course, it is not just because of the name, it is because of the caliber of wheels that you will get from this specific manufacturer. You can get these wheels through a dealer or you can purchase them straight from Vellano.

The great thing about Vellano is that they have been in the wheel business for 13 years. Unlike a lot of businesses, this company does all of their own building, so they aren't simply piecing together wheels that come from unknown places. Instead, you are getting a wheel that started and ended with high expectations for quality and style. There are a lot of different models, so whatever your style or your make of vehicle you will find something that suits you well!

If Vellano doesn't meet your specific requirements in a wheel, then you might want to look at VIP modular wheels. This is another great manufacturer of wheels for all types of vehicles. These wheels are generally associated with luxury vehicles, but that doesn't mean that you need to have a classically luxurious vehicle. You can put these wheels on a variety of different vehicles and have them look great.

When buying wheels you need to think about the style that would best suit your specific vehicle. Each of these brands has a lot of different options for you to choose from. Not only do you need to think about style and finish, you need to think about size. Both of the manufactures mentioned above offer wheels in a variety of sizes so you can use them with safety and ease on any type of vehicle and with any type of tire of your choice from performance tires, race tires, and so much more.

As you can see, there is a lot to think about when you are choosing wheels for your vehicle. There are a lot of options out there, so be sure that you shop around and see what suits your needs as well as your desires best. Wheels really can change the look and feel of your car, so have fun with it!

Caitlina Fuller is a freelance writer. If you would like to put a nice set of wheels on your vehicle you will definitely want to consider Vellano wheels. This is one of the more prestigious names in the wheel business. If Vellano doesn't meet your specific requirements in a wheel, then you might want to look at VIP modular wheels. This is another great manufacturer of wheels for all types of vehicles.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Caitlina_Fuller

The Chevrolet of the 21st Century

Chevrolet has had several popular cars on the market earning strong sales in the past few years. Specifically, Chevrolet is a well-rounded company whose top sellers reflect a diversity of good automobile design. For example, three of the Chevrolet's best seller in recent years include a pickup truck, a full-size family sedan, and a sporty little compact car--the Chevy Silverado, the Chevy Impala, and the Chevy Cobalt, respectively.

Chevrolet's most popular half-ton pickup truck, the Silverado, is second only to the Ford F Series in sales and popularity. Long known for its reliability and durability, the Chevy Silverado offers strong power and performance, a smooth, quiet ride, and a high degree of customization. With three cab styles, four engines, and trim levels ranging from the no-frills work truck to a luxury model, the Chevy Silverado can server as either a solid work truck, a sporty off-road adventurer, or a family hauler. The downsides are few and far between, but there are some. The four-speed automatic transmission is a little fussy when downshifting. Chevrolet has long been known poor cabin interior quality, and the Silverado is no exception. The Chevy Silverado interior is known for an over-abundance of hard plastic, uneven panel gas, and an awkward or uncomfortable ergonomic design (although most of these interior issues were addressed starting with the 2007 model). Overall, the Chevy Silverado is a solid, reliable, flexible vehicle whose ability to be tailored to the specific needs of its buyers and won it a popular place in the pickup market.

Finally, the Chevy Impala continues to be a popular seller. The Chevy Impala has a long and distinguished history going back fifty years, and continues to be Chevrolet's mainstay full-size sedan. Clearly, however, it has gone through some changes since 1958. Today's Chevy Impala has a small, more efficient V6 engine that provides plenty of power and performance while still offering decent gas mileage (traditionally a weak point of the classic Impalas). Although it provides sporty performance, the Chevy Impala remains essentially a family vehicle for those reluctant to buy a minivan. With a front bench seat, the Chevy Impala can fit up to six passengers. On the downside, although the Chevy Impala provides a smooth, comfortable ride, the handling is far from the best on the market. Overall, the modern Chevy Impala continues its long tradition of being an affordable, quality family vehicle that are still fun to drive.

The Chevy Cobalt first entered the market in 2005, as both a successor and improvement upon the Chevy Cavalier. Lager, higher quality, and fuel-efficient, the Chevy Cobalt sold well and quickly climbed its way onto the Top Ten Bestselling Cars list. Unlike foreign, imported compact cars, the Chevy Cobalt is highly customizable. Customers can choose form four trim levels, three engines, and two transmissions, and is available as either a coupe or a sedan. At 34 miles per gallon (55 kpg) on the highway, it gets great gas mileage. On the down side, although the Chevy Cobalt earned very good safety marks for frontal and read crash tests, many of its safety features are not standard. Antilock Brake Systems, rear disc brakes, and side curtain air bags are all optional on the lower trim levels (although side curtain airbags became standard in 2008). Overall, the Chevy Cobalt proves that American car manufacturers can still go toe-to-toe with foreign competitors in the compact car market.

About the Author

Ed Terran is the pen name for the editor of a auto parts directory USA auto salvage UK auto salvage

The Best BMW Autos

If you are in the market to purchase a BMW here are several tips to help you get the most for your money.

1. If possible, try to buy your vehicle from a reputable dealer near the end of the year. November, December, and January are the best months to shop for a new vehicle. This time of year, you can negotiate the lowest price possible, because dealers are willing to offer steep discounts on models of cars not sold from the previous year. Dealers need to make room in their inventory for next years models. For example, you will save thousands of dollars if you buy a 2008 model BMW as opposed to a 2009 model. Both vehicles are brand new and never been driven off the lot, but the former represents last year's inventory.

2. Never finance your new car through a bank. If you don't have cash to pay for your BMW, always finance your car through a credit union to get the best interest rate. Credit Unions are not-for-profit organizations that are sponsored by the members, whereas banks are for-profit. So you will always get a better interest rate when you finance your BMW through a credit union. Always shop around at several credit unions to find out the best interest rate for auto loans, because their rates will vary. Don't be afraid to inquire about memberships with any credit union, because the membership requirements are generally very general these days, so just about anyone can now join any credit union without having to worry about any restrictions.

3. Always comparison shop and get several written quotes from several dealers. You can do this online or in person. For example, suppose Jim's BMW Dealer offered you a 2008 7 Series Active Hybrid BMW for $88,000, and this price was already discounted 10% off from the manufacturer sticker price. So you take this quote into their competitor called Sally's BMW Dealer and ask Sally what she can do for you. Sally see's that she doesn't have the same color that you want, but she is willing to discount this even more down to $78,000. Now you take Sally's quote to Ralph's BMW Dealer and show Ralph what Sally is willing to give you and ask Ralph how he can beat the $78,000 price. The key is to keep your emotions in check. Be patient to shop around and not allow anyone to talk you into signing for the car on the same day that you are negotiating. This will allow you to get the dealers to negotiate as low as possible before you commit to buying your new car.

iPod Car Adapters

If you're like one of the millions of people who commute to work or school each day, you may be looking to invest in an iPod car adapter. Early morning radio talk shows may be interesting or entertaining for a few minutes, but when you're trapped in a hectic race to work during the rush hour, listening to advertisements can be anything but relaxing. The same scenario awaits you after work as you drive home during evening traffic. With an iPod car adapter, you never have to listen to the same music or the same radio talk show critic twice.

With an iPod car adapter, you can listen to your favorite songs without having to jump from one radio station to the next to avoid the boring chatter between songs. If you're worried that your car may not be fit to accommodate an iPod car adapter, worry no more-there are three types to choose from, so iPod car adapters can work in virtually any model of car, whether old or new.

With road congestion and traffic that can sometimes keep you in your car for hours, it's no surprise that you spend a lot of that time listening to your favorite radio stations. But what do you do when commercials come on? You're likely to flip through radio stations until you find one that's playing the music you want to listen to. This can be a major distraction when you're on the road, especially if you're caught in bumper-to-bumper traffic. And because radio stations know that you and most of the other cars stuck on the freeway next to you are going to turn on the radio, they all seem to play their commercials at the same time. It's a very frustrating scenario for most drivers, but one that can be easily corrected when you purchase an iPod car adapter.

IPod car adapters are made with a standard of quality that's backed by its popular brand name, Apple. Apple iPod car adapters can work with all of Apple's mp3 players, including the iPod Nano, iPod Shuffle and iPod Classic. All of these mp3 players are small and easy to use, and so are the car adapters that allow them to work inside your car. IPod car adapters work by allowing the music you love to be played through your car's stereo system, so you will be using your radio controls to navigate the music in your iPod.

Though you will still be using your radio controls as you listen to your music through the iPod car adapter, it could still be much safer to listen to your iPod. When you're driving with an advertisement-packed radio station on, your attention will be drawn away from the road as you flip through stations. With your iPod on, however, you will be able to listen to your favorite music uninterrupted.

About the Author

Joel McLaughlin Learn more about Ipod Adapters Read the original Ipod Adapter article.

Volvo Recharge hybrid concept car

Volvo Recharge luxury car picture

Volvo Recharge luxury car gallery

Volvo Recharge luxury car photo

Mercury Messenger Concept Car

Mercury Messenger luxury car picture

Mercury Messenger luxury car gallery

Mercury Messenger luxury car photo

Mazda Nagare luxury car gallery

Mazda Nagare luxury car picture

Mazda Nagare luxury car gallery

Mazda Nagare luxury car photo

Mazda Furai luxury car picture

Mazda Furai luxury car picture

Mazda Furai luxury car gallery

Mazda Furai luxury car photo

Mazda Taiki concept car

Mazda Taiki luxury car picture

Mazda Taiki luxury car gallery

Mazda Taiki luxury car photo

10 Best New Cars for Winter Driving

This are the list for 10 Best New Cars for Winter Driving this year 2009 according to forbes. This 10 Best New Cars for Winter Driving are scored and test by there performance.

1. Porsche Cayenne S
2. Audi A4 Sedan
3. BMW X5, xDrive30i
4. BMW X6, xDrive35i
5. Volvo S80
6. Volvo V70
7. Volvo XC70
8. Lexus LX
9. Subaru Forester 2.5XT Limited
10.Subaru Outback 2.5i Special Edition

10 Most Dangerous Cars this year 2009

This are the 10 Most Dangerous Cars for this year 2009. This survey taken by there performance, crash results and rollover ratings.

1. Chevrolet Aveo
2. Chevrolet Colorado
3. Chevrolet Trailblazer
4. Chrysler PT Cruiser
5. Dodge Nitro
6. Ford Ranger
7. GMC Canyon
8. GMC Envoy
9. Hummer H3
10. Hyundai Accent