The College Driver News

Road Test: 2013 Cadillac ATS

Thu, 23 May 2013 19:05:36 -0400

When Cadillac revealed the ATS at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show, we were floored. Not only did they design and engineer the most beautiful compact luxury car on the market, but to think it came from Cadillac was the real shocker.

Several years in the making and brand new from the ground up on a new platform called Alpha, the 2013 Cadillac ATS is what the American luxury brand has needed for years. Aimed to compete directly with the BMW 3-series, the ATS is also bringing down the average age of a Cadillac buyer.

Available with three engines, various trim levels and rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive, the team behind the ATS wants compact luxury buyers and those who never considered Cadillac, to take a second look. We spent a week with a 2.0T Luxury AWD model to find out just why.

Cadillac Visits Germany

Don't worry, Cadillac is still all-American. The ATS was designed in GM design studios and manufactured in Lansing, Michigan, but it's like no other Cadillac ever produced.

Starting with the Alpha platform, the focus of the ATS was always to be a performance luxury sedan. In order to accomodate buyers across the country, Cadillac is offering the sedan with RWD or AWD, with either a 6-speed manual or automatic, the former only available on RWD models.

Available engines include a 2.5-liter four-cylinder, 2.0-liter turbo or 3.6-liter V6 putting out 202, 272 or 321 horsepower, respectively.

The 2.0T, much like the smaller or mid-range engine option on other luxury cars, is our pick for a good blend of respectable fuel economy and power. In fact, we never once heard ourselves asking for more power in the ATS. Instead we appreciated the 24.6 MPG we averaged over a week of stop-and-go and spirited driving when not stuck in rush-hour traffic.

While the ATS makes best of commuter traffic with our new favorite feature, radar cruiser control, it's the back roads that the engineering and countless hours spent on the Nurburgring calibrating the suspension and steering that quickly become evident. With a nearly 50/50 weight split from front to back, the car is literally perfectly balanced. Engineers went to extreme measures cutting weight where possible, which also contributes to the athletic feel in the driver's hands.

Our "Luxury Collection" model came equipped with optional 18" polished aluminum wheels that give the ATS a better look from the side and superior handling to the standard 17s.

Since we had one of the largest snow storms of the season while driving the ATS, we experienced just how superb the AWD system is. Michelin Primacy all-season run-flat tires sit at each corner and provided superior traction in some quite harsh conditions. All systems worked flawlessly in unison to prevail and build confidence in how well-engineered the ATS truly is.

Leaving the World Outside

While the various vehicle systems are working to keep the ATS on its intended path during a blizzard, the driver can relax cold fingers with the available heated steering wheel and check out the forecast using CUE. Just don't try using any CUE center console or touch-screen functions with gloves, because it won't respond.

Our experience with the CUE system in the ATS was MUCH better than the SRX we drove the week prior. We weren't sure if this was due to a system software or hardware update, but the responsiveness of all the controls and screen was much better.

Unfortunately, that still doesn't mean it's as intuitive or egonomic as buttons or knobs. Our eyes still left the road every time we wanted to do something as simple as scroll through stations, and constant weather advisory pop-ups seemed to really bog down the the touch-screen and prevent other actions from happening.

Materials all around are the best in the segment; they're all soft, beautifully grained and real, including the aluminum trim on the dash and doors. The sport seats offer a multitude of adjustments to making finding the perfect driving position simple, and our favorite seat adjustment, the extending and retracting thigh support, is available as well.

Our trim level was outfitted with a pilot-like color head-up display system, an invaluable feature that should be standard on every car in this day and age.

The aforementioned adaptive cruise control system uses radar to maintain a distance between the ATS and the car in front, and packaged into with it are the safety alert seat, intelligent brake assist, forward collision alert, side blind zone alert, lane departure warning, and front/rear brake intervention.

We found them to be incredibly useful and supportive in day-to-day driving, but of course should not be relied upon over common sense and attentive driving.

theCD's Take

With performance, refinement and luxury in a compact sedan package, the ATS was a winner after our first minute behind the wheel. Not only do the vertical LEDs grab attention down the road, but they grab attention to something beautifully and thoughtfully created.

With a starting price of $33,095 and peaking at $55,005 for a fully loaded 3.6L AWD model, the ATS is an exceptional value for those who seek world-class luxury and performance, in a package that can be used as a daily driver.

2013 Cadillac ATS Photo Gallery

Road Test: 2013 Cadillac SRX

Sun, 19 May 2013 17:07:24 -0400

What started with the Lexus RX300 in the late 90s has turned into an exploding lineup of vehicles from every luxury brand. The premium crossover segment has grown at a fast pace, and with it come the challenges of what is defined as “luxury” in the 21st century. Cadillac entered the club in 2003 with the first generation SRX and did well, but the segment grew fast in the late 2000s and Caddy knew they needed a show-stopper to compete with the Audi Q5, Lexus RX350, Infiniti FX and Mercedes ML to name a few.

Welcome the refreshed for 2013 SRX. Introduced in 2009 as a 2010 model, it received a facelift this year along with a totally revamped interior. With one week behind the wheel with a Premium AWD model in Black Raven, we were able to see just how luxurious and capable the SRX was in handling the demands of daily life.

Luxury Redefined

As of late, luxury has been synonymous with technology, and the 2013 SRX is loaded to the brim with the latest in safety, entertainment and connectivity. All SRX trim levels come standard with CUE (Cadillac User Experience), a system that features an 8" touch-screen, proximity sensors and haptic feedback which means there’s a vibration under the finger wherever the screen is pressed.

Unfortunately, using something like a tablet while driving is illegal in many states. It falls under the same balloon as smartphones, laptops, etc. A more ideal system, albeit still distracting, would be a knob or controller of some sort with menus that are no more than 2 layers deep. A controller of some sort also helps to eliminate those unsightly fingerprints from the beautiful display too.

We found CUE to be laggy at times, though it didn't always let us know via a "loading" symbol; we'd tap and tap and then eventually something would happen but then something else would happen because it registered all the following inputs as well. Cadillac has since issued an update to speed up the system and we're hearing positive feedback about it.

Below the touch-screen are capacitive touch buttons that react to the energy of the human body. This means that they don't work with gloves like an actual button would and they don't always register like an actual button or knob would. The old saying "don't fix what ain't broken" comes to mind after experiencing this, but we commend the engineers and designers at Cadillac for coming up with something cool; it simply shouldn't be in a vehicle though at this stage of the game.

One thoughtful feature behind CUE is an illuminated storage cubbie. A light tap on the chrome trim above the CD slot activates a motorized lift to hide personal items like a wallet to keep thieves away.

Original Definition of Luxury

Aside from CUE, the SRX is a true luxury vehicle through the extensive bling on the outside. The contrast of the black paint to the chrome grille, fenders, roof rails, 20" wheels and exhaust outlets is stunning.

Our top level model came standard with high-intensity discharge headlights and adaptive lighting. Adaptive headlights communicate with steering wheel inputs and rotate the projector lens left or right to illuminate around corners, something you didn't realize you need until you have it.

Parking sensors are located in the front and rear bumpers to aid in parking situations, and new for the 2013 SRX is rear cross-traffic alter. A back-up camera is also standard for a detailed reversing experience, and projects on the CUE display.

Keyless access with pushbutton start was standard on our model, a feature we've come to love on every modern vehicle that offers it. It's another must-have that you begin to appreciate as "true luxury" over things like capacitive buttons.

Inside, more luxury fills the cabin. Beautiful soft touch and high quality materials cover every surface and the attention to detail is something we haven't seen in a while from Cadillac. This is truly a well-crafted interior that deserves recognition where it's due.

Look above and a panoramic roof that extends beyond the rear seat opens up the cabin to the limitless sky, but can quickly close it out with a powered moving sunshade if need be.

Heated and cooled front seats, heated outboard rear seats and a heated steering wheel all made our winter-time experience with the SRX a warm one.

Winter Warrior

While passengers cuddle in the warmth of heated hides inside, the SRX is doing so much on the outside to keep the vehicle in the driver's control. The 3.6L V6 under the hood puts out 308 horsepower and is mated to a six-speed automatic with a limited-slip differential at the rear to provide side-to-side torque in hard cornering.

Though we didn't have the opportunity to test the hard cornering aspect of the system with all-season rubber on slippery roads, we can say the system was imperceptible when it was working. Accelerating up a hill from a stop was drama free and once again instilled confidence in the excellent drivetrain.

Fuel economy for the premium-drinking engine is rated by the EPA at 16 MPG in the city, 23 MPG on the highway, and we averaged about 21 MPG over the week of mixed driving. That’s actually impressive considering the several remote-starts initiated to warm up the cabin.

Local driving was a breeze thanks to the helpful driving and parking aids and good all around visibility. We were a bit surprised by the amount of force needed to apply the brakes though, almost as if Cadillac had brought back manual brakes, though it may have been an anomaly in our test vehicle.

Highway commuting was smooth, stable and quiet. Feedback from the suspension and steering is excellent and connects the driver to the road in a positive manner. Not on our tester but available on the SRX are features that make life even better, like adaptive cruise control and front/rear automatic braking. We've tested both systems on the Cadillac ATS and can confirm that they work and are well worth checking off on the options sheet as part of the Driver Awareness and Assist packages.

theCD's Take

With the luxury crossover segment is hotter than it has ever been, the SRX is fighting an uphill battle. High quality materials, interior comfort and service after the sale are no longer what defines a luxury vehicle but remain key to the overall vehicle experience.

The 2013 SRX leads in luxury, refinement and comfort, and we’re interested to see the resilience to time and temperature fluctuations of the electrostatic switchgear. With a starting price of $37,330 and topping out at $58,220, the SRX is also a value in the crossover segment. It also comes standard with OnStar, a service that we highly recommend for everything from vehicle health reports, automatic accident notification and landline-quality calling for a small fee.

2013 Cadillac SRX Gallery

How to Prevent Losing Control of Your Car While Driving

Fri, 17 May 2013 11:53:59 -0400

When you take your car out on a rainy day, you are more likely to pay closer attention to the road while driving. This is because you know weather conditions greatly influence the safety of driving your car. You may turn your windshield wipers on, keep your phone turned off, or keep the radio low to avoid distractions. These are all great ways to increase your safety while driving, but what about the things that are not within your control?

Skidding, snow, and rainy or icy roads all increase the dangers of losing control of your car while driving. Paying extra attention to the road will help, but there are some more things worth knowing to prevent this kind of danger.

For example, to prepare your vehicle for the cold and icy winter weather, you should ensure that each of your tires has a minimum of a 4.8-millimeter deep tread. You will also need to get the antifreeze levels and battery power of your car checked. Finally, make sure your rear window defogger and defroster are in good working order.

These steps alone will dramatically increase your safety on the road, but there is still more you can do. Try stocking your car with items needed to prevent getting stuck in an emergency. It is advised drivers keep a snow shovel and kitty litter in their cars during the winter weather. The shovel is to help dig yourself out of the snow and the litter provides traction for your tires.

Now that you've prepared your car for the road, it's time to consider prevention while actually driving. The most important resource available to you while driving is reaction time. If you start to skid or hydroplane, every second counts.

On the road, the distance between you and another car in front of you determines the reaction time you will have if something goes wrong. For every ten mph you are traveling, you should allow yourself three to four car lengths of space between you and the next vehicle. It is probably wise to increase that distance even more if you are driving a heavier vehicle such as a cab truck or trailer.

It is advised to avoid driving cab and chassis trucks on wet or icy roads as much as possible. But sometimes it is hard to stay off the road when it is raining. Other times, a heavy downpour may start when you are already on the road, with nowhere close to pull over. The risk of skidding or hydroplaning increases in these circumstances. If you find yourself beginning to enter a skid, immediately stop pressing on the accelerator and try to keep the car in a straight line. It is also very important not to panic. That may go against your instincts but it is a much safer response and will keep you levelheaded.

Another immediate instinct in the process of a skid may be to instantly slam on the brakes. This can be dangerous and ineffective. If your car doesn't have antilock brakes, you'll want to pump, not slam, your brakes. Antilock brakes will automatically apply this pumping technique to prevent the car's reaction to slamming on the brakes so you may want to look into having them installed.

5 Auto Maintenance Tips that Can Help Extend the Life of Your Vehicle

Thu, 16 May 2013 22:50:37 -0400

Routine automobile maintenance is absolutely necessary when it comes to keeping your car in pristine condition. Because you rely on it for work and leisure, keeping the car up to a minimum standard is crucial. So, if you follow a few simple guidelines, you can keep your vehicle in great condition and not have to worry about catastrophic and costly repairs down the road.

1. Changing the Oil

Not checking or changing the oil routinely is one of the biggest contributors to engine problems. Oil is important to vehicle because it keeps the engine lubricated, and thus, keeps it from getting too hot. Lack of oil can severely damage engine components, so it's important to have regular oil changes, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Make sure you check the oil in between the routine changes to see if you are burning or leaking oil, and be sure you are using the correct oil in your car if changing your own.

2. Cleaning the

Believe it or not, cleaning the interior of your car can prevent damage from several elements. Whenever you clean the exterior of the car, make sure to clean the interior. Vacuuming and sponging or steam cleaning the upholstery can rid the material of dirt and spilled food/drink. Make sure to wash floor mats and clean stains as well. This will not only keep your interior clear of corrosive and harsh materials, it will help the car hold its value.

3. Washing the Exterior

Washing your car on a regular basis year-round has many benefits. It protects your car from corrosive elements such as salt, snow, and dirt. Don't forget to wash the undercarriage of the car, as this is very susceptible to rust and often gets overlooked. Change windshield wipers as well if they are torn. Adding a layer of wax after the was is important too, as it protects the paint job from weather and the sun.

4. Perform Regular Tune-ups

Tune-ups are crucial to car maintenance because they help increase the life and performance of the vehicle, and improve gas mileage to boot. They should be conducted about every 80,000 miles. The tune-up consists of topping off fluid levels, running a diagnostic, and replacing any worn belts under the hood. If you decide to do this at home to save money, a few simple tools, such as a wrench and power drill, as well as a few specialty items, such as a RSS series torque sensor, which helps estimate horsepower performance, are beneficial. That way, you can have your car running in perfect condition.

5. Replaces Tires When Necessary

There are three components of tires you should check at least monthly when servicing your car: tire pressure, treads, and tire wear. Use a tire gauge to see if your tires are inflated to theproper PSI. If over or under inflated, the tires can succumb to the heat and stress of everyday driving. Tire treads should be examined to make sure they are still deep enough to grip the road. Typically, if they are worn down, it is fairly obvious to recognize. Tire wear, or bald tires, which can be a result of both worn treads and improper inflation, is both harmful to performance and dangerous.

Keeping your car in working order is important to stay safe, ensure the car is running properly, and maintain the value of the vehicle. By scheduling routine service, either on your own or by professionals, the car can last years longer than expected. Remember, your car, like most things in the world, is good to you if you're good to it.

Ford Futurist Honored Among Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative Business People

Mon, 13 May 2013 16:35:19 -0400

Every company needs a Sheryl Connelly. After having met her at a Forward with Ford conference two years ago, she's doing some amazing work to keep Ford agile in our ever changing world. As global head of trends and futuring for Ford, Connelly immerses herself in ever-evolving social, cultural, environmental, technological and economic ideas to imagine what consumers might want up to 20 years in the future.

Connelly's has earned herself a spot on Fast Company's 2013 Top 100 Most Creative People in Business list, an annual look at the people and businesses that are redefining creativity in industry, culture and commerce. Connelly's award puts Ford Motor Company in the creative ranks with Apple, Nike and Facebook; Ford is the only automaker represented this year.

Connelly considers herself the company contrarian. She provides a "functionally agnostic" view of the world for engineers, designers, technologists and others at Ford, while offering a different lens through which to view future shifts in the marketplace.

"I'm very proud to be part of this world-class Ford team and collaborate with such smart, creative colleagues each day," said Connelly. "This award from Fast Company is a huge recognition for Ford as a whole."

Connelly's work helps Ford take a big-picture approach to consumer research, going beyond traditional business analysis to consider situations Ford can't control or influence. As a result, the company can better anticipate consumer shifts and act on them in a way that gives Ford a competitive advantage.

In 2004 for example, Connelly led a project that examined the possibility of an economic collapse and the perils it would present to the U.S. auto industry. A few years later consumers rallied behind Ford when they did not need government loans to avoid bankruptcy when auto sales slowed down.

Connelly's trends research and her collaboration within Ford also helped the company develop a business case to invest in compact utility vehicles during the early 2000s - ahead of many in the industry. Ford predicted consumer interest in smaller utility vehicles would be driven by downsizing baby boomers as well as rising gasoline prices. From 2005 to 2012 sales of small utilities rose 155 percent. Today, nearly 7 million compact utilities are sold every year, accounting for more than 16 percent of all vehicles sold worldwide.

"Nothing has been more prolific than the global rise of the compact utility," said Erich Merkle, Ford's U.S. sales analyst.

"It's thrilling that a more than 100-year-old company, in a very mature and extremely complex industry, is on the cutting-edge of innovation and creativity," Connelly said of Ford. "It's about being nimble enough to anticipate or create change."

The Chevrolet Colorado: Mid-Size Truck for a Full-Size Life

Sat, 11 May 2013 23:18:20 -0400

Ever since William C. Durrant and Louis Chevrolet got together, Chevrolet cars and trucks have been an integral part of the American society. Chevy strives to find the balance between maintaining the quality vehicles that have made them who they are, and looking ahead to design models for today and tomorrow’s market. The Chevrolet Colorado was their answer to a quality mid-sized truck that combines their reliability with their ingenuity.

Nice Ride

The Colorado was created to bring the public a smaller more affordable truck, without having a big price tag or a larger, more cumbersome body. Edmunds.com explains:

“The Chevrolet Colorado was Chevy’s entry in the highly competitive compact pickup segment...it offered a reasonable amount of hauling capability without requiring one to upgrade to a more expensive, less maneuverable full-size truck.”

The frame of the Colorado is the GMT355 platform, which has been used for the Hummer H3. It offers:

-Standard.

-Extended.

-Four-door crew cab.

Under the Hood

When someone buys a truck, they’re looking for power, and the Colorado will not disappoint. Chevy has progressively amped up Colorado’s power and ability.

-2004: 2.8 liter four-cylinder engine, 175 horsepower, 185 pound-feet of torque.

-2005: 3.5 liter five-cylinder engine, 220 horsepower, 225 pound-feet of torque.

-2007: 3.7 liter five-cylinder engine, 242 horsepower and 242 pound-feet of torque.

-2009 and beyond: v-8 engine displaced 5.3 liters and a peak output of 300 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque.

US News reviewed the truck at usnews.rankingsandreviews.com and stated “The 2012 Chevrolet Colorado is a competent and utilitarian compact truck...“ The Colorado has the ability to tow 6,000lbs. But with the smaller engine options you can get an EPA-rated 18-25 mpg. Much like its big brother, the Chevrolet Silverado, it is a great truck for both a comfortable ride, and heavy duty work.

Cost Comparisons

The cost of the Colorado will of course vary, especially depending on what year model and size engine you have. But autos.msn.com offers information for the 2012 Colorado with:

-$17,475- 30,320 MSRP.

-$16,776- 28,804 Invoice.

TrueCar breaks it down at truecar.com:

-$18,285 MSRP.

-$17,547 as a target price.

Motor trend sits in between the two other quotes with price estimates at motortrend.com:

-$20,370- 29,480.

-Base: $20,370.

-Extended cab: $22,955.

-Crew cab: $24,285.

Accessorize It

Most truck owners would be quick to admit their truck is much more than just a vehicle for them. As a result, you may be looking to add a few accessories to your Colorado to make it more fitting for your needs or style. You can check out manufacturer accessories at gmaccessorieszone.com. The basic upgrades are:

-Bed products

-Cargo

-Electronics

-Interior

-Performance

But if you want more than just the basic GM manufacturer accessories you can check out specialized sites that offer quality accessories like truxedo tonneau covers to protect your bed area. There are a lot of Chevy truck lovers out there and as such there are some great sites to get everything for your cab, exterior body, and engine to personalize your Colorado.

The Chevrolet Colorado has an aim to bring out their next new upgraded model for 2014-2015. The expectation is that they will still offer the V-8, but will also now have a V-6 option. If you’re looking for a compact or mid-size truck, check out the Colorado, it just may be the right ride for you!

Meguiar’s Scion FR-S Available for Forza Motorsport 4 and Forza Horizon Games

Mon, 06 May 2013 14:34:27 -0400

Microsoft's Turn 10 Studios, makers of the Forza Motorsport franchise for the Xbox 360, have created a digital likeness of a real-world, Meguiar's Inc., modified Scion FR-S for players to download and race in Forza Motorsport 4 and Forza Horizon. Beginning today, the Meguiar's Scion FR-S design will be available as a free download for any person who owns Forza Horizon, or for Forza Motorsport 4 players who have purchased the August Playseat Car Pack.

The real, gleaming yellow Meguiar's Scion FR-S was designed in partnership with Scion and debuted at the 2012 SEMA Show and was digitally recreated inside the two Forza franchises by Turn 10 Studios.

"The Forza Motorsport games encourage players to customize cars to reflect their individuality, and both the real and digital versions of the Meguiar's FR-S stand out from the pack," said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. "Bringing the FR-S into the Forza franchise is a great match of Scion customization and a vehicle that is a lot of fun to drive inside the game and out."

To encourage players to share photos of their digital FR-S cars on the track, Meguiar's is sponsoring a Forza Horizon photo contest beginning today and ends on May 17, 2013. Winners will have chances to win prizes from Meguiar's and Xbox 360 by taking snapshots of the FR-S within the game. In addition, new Rivals Mode race events have been created in both games to give players a chance to test out their new cars in competition.

To enter the Forza Horizon Photo Contest, visit http://forzamotorsport.net/en-US/news.aspx for more information.

2014 Chevy Silverado High Country Unveiled

Mon, 06 May 2013 12:45:40 -0400

The 2014 Silverado High Country will further broaden Chevrolet's portfolio in the premium pickup segment when it joins the LTZ and Z71 models in the Silverado lineup this fall.

Silverado High Country is distinguished by a unique chrome grille with horizontal chrome bars, halogen projector headlamps and body-color front and rear bumpers. Unique 20-inch chrome wheels with P275/55R20 all-season tires are standard, as are chrome body side moldings, door handles and mirrors.

Inside, Silverado High Country features an exclusive saddle brown interior, with authentic materials throughout. Features include heated and cooled perforated premium leather front bucket seats with High Country logos on the headrests, Chevrolet MyLink connectivity with an 8-inch touch screen, Bose premium audio and front and rear park assist.

"High Country will be the top model in the Silverado lineup, with a higher level of premium features and materials with a rich, Western themed appearance," said Maria Rohrer, Silverado marketing director. "But at the same time, High Country is 100-percent Chevy truck, with the capability and dependability customers have relied on for more than 95 years."

Standard engine for the Silverado High Country is the 5.3L EcoTec3 V-8, SAE-certified at 355 horsepower (250 kW), with class-leading V-8 fuel economy of up to 23 mpg highway (2WD models). The all-new 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8 also will be available. Both engines feature direct fuel injection, Active Fuel Management and continuously variable valve timing, proving the refined power and torque truck customers expect. Both seamlessly switch to four-cylinder mode to save fuel during light-load driving.

Because of the high level of standard equipment, Silverado High Country will offer only a few options. In addition to the 6.2L EcoTec3 V-8, they include a chrome rear bumper with CornerStep, integrated trailer brake controller, sunroof, navigation, and a rear-seat entertainment system as well as a High Country Premium Package which includes heated steering wheel, driver alert package, adjustable pedals and integrated trailer brake controller.

World is a Race Track for Nissan's Expanding NISMO Line

Mon, 06 May 2013 10:28:03 -0400

Nissan's Motorsports brand, NISMO, is growing and changing beyond the racetrack.

To show off what's new, Nissan staged a special NISMO event for media at the Nashville Superspeedway. It was an event to provide a glimpse into what is new, and what is coming next.

On site were both the 2013 and 2014 Nissan 370Z NISMO, the JUKE-R, the 2013 Nissan JUKE NISMO, and the 2014 GT-R Track Edition.

As part of the performance line, these cars sport uniform, race-inspired exterior and interior styling. And, enthusiasts will find new features designed specifically for the driver.

"We think the track is a perfect place to showcase NISMO because NISMO is Nissan Motorsports. It's the racing, the motor sports heritage that has inspired cars like the new JUKE NISMO, and it's about bringing that excitement from the track to the street," said Carl Phillips, chief marketing manager, NISMO and Nissan sports car marketing - Nissan North America.

The first new Nissan production vehicle to get the NISMO treatment, the Juke NISMO, is already on sale in Europe and Japan and launches in the United States in the spring. The 370Z NISMO is now in its second generation in the U.S., with a revised 2014 370Z NISMO set for sale this summer.

Nissan is promising a rapid pace of introduction of even more NISMO models - at least one model every year during the Nissan Power88 period, encompassing the breadth of the Nissan model range. This of course includes the flagship of Nissan's performance and technology efforts, the Nissan GT-R.

Understanding the Different Kinds of Vehicle Collisions

Fri, 03 May 2013 19:37:18 -0400

There’s not much worse than getting into a motor vehicle accident. With all of the paperwork, mechanics, auto body repair costs, and insurance companies, car accidents can be a real headache. There’s also the legal aspect to consider every time you’re in an accident. There are lots of San Diego accident lawyers in southern California, which is great for you because you have lots of options, but it’s also not-so-great for you because not all lawyers are cut from the same cloth.

To help you find a lawyer who meets the needs of your situation, several common and severe types of accidents are explained in detail below so that you can make an educated decision when hiring legal representation for your car accident.

Rear-end Collisions

Rear-end collision accidents are arguably the most frequent type of accident experienced by drivers. There are many causes to rear-end accidents—most often one driver slows down suddenly causing the driver behind him or her to collide into their car or the driver behind suddenly accelerate colliding with the car in front.

Generally, injuries associated with rear-end collisions include minor whiplash to drivers and passengers of both vehicles involved. Fault is often attributed to the operator of the vehicle that rear-ends the other vehicle, and depending on the severity of damage caused by the accident, legal counsel may be necessary.

Side-impacts Collisions

Side-impact collisions are considered among most dangerous kind of accident because of the potential threat to drivers and passengers, especially in the car that is struck. Side-impact, or T-bone, collisions occur when another car or stationary object strikes the side of a vehicle. Damage from side-impact collisions can be detrimental to a vehicle’s drivability, potentially leaving the car totaled. As with other severe accidents, side-impact collisions may land the party at fault in legal trouble and seeking legal counsel is highly recommended.

Vehicle Rollover

As is the case with side-impact collisions, vehicle rollovers are among the most dangerous types of accidents for drivers and passengers. A vehicle rollover is defined as type of vehicular accident in which a car or truck tips onto its side or roof. Any kind of vehicle may rollover, though some vehicles, in particular, have a higher rollover rate—sports utility vehicles (SUV) are among the most likely vehicles to rollover.

Injuries related to rolled vehicles can include brain damage, serious bodily harm, and even death. Individuals involved in causing a vehicle rollover (to their own vehicle or another person’s vehicle) are strongly urged to seek legal representation.

Head-on Collisions

Head-on collisions occur when two vehicles crash frontend-to-frontend. Generally, both cars involved are severely damaged, often totaled. The potential for bodily harm and death in cases of head-on collisions is extremely high, as the vehicles involved are both moving at a given speed in opposing directions, compounding the force of the collision. If you’ve been involved in and are at fault in a head-on collision, legal representations is a must.

Single Car Accidents

Like rear-end collisions, single car accidents are common. A single car accident may occur when a vehicle strikes an object that is not another vehicle (including, but not limited to, trees, homes, personal property, and more). Single car accidents may also involve the striking of another individual. If you’ve recently been involved in a single car accident, especially one involving a pedestrian, you want to make sure you have a very good lawyer.

Depending on the severity of your accident, you may or may not need a lawyer. The majority of people involved in collisions do end up needing legal representation because damage and personal injury are common, especially in rollovers and head-on collisions. Before you hire a lawyer to represent your case, make sure you take a look through the different types of accidents so you know exactly what you’re being defended for when you go to court.

7 Tips for Buying a Car and Staying Within Your Budget

Tue, 30 Apr 2013 20:13:41 -0400

Time for a new car? If you're on a budget, it might not be as simple as picking out the one you want and buying it at the dealership. You have to look into some things to make sure you stay on budget when shopping for a new car. Here are seven tips for buying a car and staying within your budget.

Shop Around

Look online and at ads for different cars and different car dealerships, such as www.hoffmanhonda.com. Find the best price you can on the type of car you want. Some auto discount stores may offer the car for less than the dealership. Look into special offers and savings throughout the year so you'll know when the best time to buy is.

Buy a Used Car

Used cars are the best choice when you have a strict budget to stick to. Most used cars dealerships will only take in cars they know are still in good condition, and will make sure the car is running perfectly before selling it to you. You can research the dealership before you go, and have a trusted mechanic look at the car before you purchase it.

Offer a Trade-in

If your current car is in good enough condition for a trade-in, use it. Check the Bluebook value of it so you'll know how much you can expect to receive for your car. Then, take this amount off of the sticker price of the car you want to buy to find out how much it should cost you.

Save for a Hefty Down Payment

Having a good-sized down payment will help cut the price of your new car. The more you put down, the less you are financing, and the lower your payments will be. The more you can save toward a down payment, the better the deal you will get.

Be Diligent at the Dealership

Car salesmen are going to try to sell you their best car. Be diligent in what you want, and don't let them talk you into something you can't afford. Once you know what car you want and how much you want to pay, stick to your guns. Make sure the dealership gives you the proper credit toward your trade-in, and gives you the best interest rate available to you. If you don't like the final offer, you can always walk away.

Make Your Payments Early

By making your car payments early, you'll ensure that you won't be hit with a late payment. The more late fees you save yourself, the more you can put toward paying off your car sooner.

Pay in Full Quickly

Speaking of paying off your car sooner, when you can, add a little extra to your regular monthly payments to help pay off the car early. The sooner you pay off your car loan, the less interest you will have to pay on it.

These seven tips will help you stay on budget when purchasing a new car. You don't have to go crazy to stay on budget. You just have to be smart, and stick to your guns.

Author Bio:

Andrea Buginsky is a freelance writer and author. “The Chosen” was her first book, and was followed by “My Open Heart,” an autobiography about growing up with heart disease. You can find Andrea on her website, Andi’s Realm, her books at Amazon and Barnes & Noble, and sign up for her newsletter to stay up-to-date on all of her exciting events.

2014 Lexus IS Priced at $36,935

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 18:25:56 -0400

Lexus today announced the Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the all-new 2014 IS sedan, which will arrive at dealerships this summer with a bold new design, engaging driving dynamics, innovative technology and increased interior and cargo room.

The IS 250, powered by a smooth 2.5-liter V6 delivering 204 horsepower and 185 lb.-ft. of torque, will have a starting MSRP of $35,950 for RWD and $38,485 for AWD. The IS 350, which produces 306 horsepower from its 3.5L V6 power plant, will have a starting MSRP of $39,465 for RWD and $41,700 for AWD. The base price for the 2014 IS 350 is 2.1% lower than the model it replaces.

The new IS will be equipped with an array of standard features such as HID headlamps, L-shaped LED daytime running lights, Drive Mode Select, paddle shifters, a dual zone climate control system, a next-generation Remote Touch Interface, Display Audio, a color 4.2 inch TFT multi-information display and 10 airbags. In an industry first, the all-new multimedia system delivers real-time traffic and weather information without a subscription. In all, over $1,400 in previously optional equipment has been made standard for the 2014 IS.

Premium, Luxury and F SPORT packages will be available across the model range. The available Premium Package ($1,050 for RWD models) includes LED headlamps and heated and ventilated front seats. The Luxury Package ($3,665 for RWD models) includes Premium Package features plus a perforated leather-trimmed interior, linear wood trim, electrochromic exterior mirrors with reverse tilt, rain-sensing wipers, driver seat memory, a power tilt/telescopic steering wheel, center stack knee pads and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross Traffic Alert.

A revamped F SPORT Package ($3,115 for IS 250 RWD and $3,620 for IS 350 RWD) offers a unique full-mesh grille and front bumper, LED headlamps, 18" split 5-spoke wheels, front sport seats, and a more aggressive sport-tuned suspension. Inside, all F SPORT models feature the attention-grabbing center-mounted tachometer with moving bezel adopted directly from the LFA. The IS 350 F SPORT adds standard Adaptive Variable Suspension (AVS) with a Sport S+ drive mode. For the first time, the F SPORT package is also available for IS AWD models.

2014 IS Pricing:

Model Drive Type Engine Transmission MSRP*

IS 250 RWD 2.5L V6 6AT $35,950

IS 250 AWD 2.5L V6 6AT $38,485

IS 350 RWD 3.5L V6 8AT $39,465

IS 350 AWD 3.5L V6 6AT $41,700

Available Packages:

Package IS 250 RWD IS 250 AWD IS 350 RWD IS 350 AWD

Premium Package $1,050 $610 $1,050 $610

Luxury Package $3,665 $3,225 $3,665 $3,225

F SPORT Package $3,115 $2,675 $3,620 $3,180

Optional Equipment
Navigation System $2,085
Navigation System with Mark Levinson $3,225
Backup Monitor $350
Power Rear Sunshade $210
18" Wheel Package with All-season tires $935
18" Wheel Package with Summer tires $935
Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS) $400
Intuitive Park Assist $500

*MSRP does not include a delivery, processing and handling fee of $895.