New Toyota Cheap Car

<a href="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/landcruiser_v8_tuning_wald.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/landcruiser_v8_tuning_wald.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 480px; height: 320px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning package by Wald International<br /><br /><br /></span></div>Posted on Mar 20th, 2009 by Vlad Balan<br />1 Comment Category: Toyota, Tuning<br /><br />Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International<br /><br />Rappers all around the world rejoice! We usually like the tuning programs from Japanese tuner Wald International but auch, this one makes our eyes hurt. The Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is one big beast, we know that because we had the chance to test drive it last year, and giving at a sporty and aggressive is just…wrong! The Black Bison package features new, huge front bumper, side skirts, rear apron with integrated diffuser, roof wing and new alloy wheels. Unless you’ve got an exaggerated ego and really like to get noticed, we don’t see any reason why anyone would buy this package.<br /><br />Photo Gallery: Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning by Wald International<br />Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning package by Wald International"<br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_iq_japan.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_iq_japan.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 299px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-weight: bold;">Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z<br /><br /><br /></span></div>Posted on Mar 19th, 2009 by Vlad Balan<br />3 Comments Category: Toyota<br /><br />Future Toyota MR2<br /><br />Introduced in 1984, the Toyota MR2 has been a real success for the Japanese carmaker and many car enthusiasts loved the small sports car. However, Toyota decided to cut down its selection of sports cars and replace them with less aggressive “sports packages”, which meant the MR2 production ended in 2007.<br /><br />But now there’s some great news coming from AutoExpress who have spoken with Toyota’s executive VP, Masatami Takimoto at the Geneva Motor Show and found out that the company is currently working on a small hybrid sports car, which will wear the MR2 name tag and which will rival the upcoming Honda CR-Z: “We are aware of the fondness with which the MR2 is held in the UK and Europe, and are developing a small hybrid sports car. We have set a tough price point (expected to be around £20,000), as it will be easier to sell if it is affordable. It has to be fun to drive, too, which means the hybrid set-up must be different to the Prius’s, with greater responsiveness.”<br /><br />AutoExpress also mentions that the new MR2 will have a compact coupe shape and, if developed properly, could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds and could return 60 mpg and less than 100 g/km CO2 emissions. Toyota didn’t say anything about when can we expect to see at least a concept of this car, but we don’t think this car is a priority, the company focusing now on family hybrids, a lot of launches being scheduled for the next 12 months.<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_mr2_future.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_mr2_future.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 300px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Photo Gallery: <span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 153); font-weight: bold;">Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept<br /><br /></span></div><br />Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept debuts at the LA Auto Show"<br />Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award<br />Posted on Nov 13th, 2008 by Vlad Balan<br />1 Comment Category: Citroen, News, Nissan, Toyota<br /><br />Japanese Car of the Year Awards<br /><br />Yesterday, the final results for the Japanese Car of the Year were announced and, surprisingly or not, the Toyota iQ is the big winner. The mini car from Toyota managed to take home the award after polling more then 300 than the second place, who went to the Citroen C5. The Nissan GT-R joined them on the podium, taking the third place. For this competition, 65 jurors had 25 votes to give to five vehicles, each juror giving 10 votes to his/her top-rated car before giving the remaining 15 votes to the next four vehicles. The iQ managed to get 10 points from 39 of the jurors. Other awards that were given were for Most Advanced Technology, which went to the GT-R, for Most Fun car (Subaru Exiga) and Best Value (Honda Freed). And here’s the top 10 (the last two were considered a tie) cars nominated and the points they scored.<br /><br />1. Toyota iQ - 526 points<br />2. Citroen C5 - 223 points<br />3. Nissan GT-R - 201 points<br />4. Audi A4/A4 Avant - 180 points<br />5. Jaguar XF - 115 points<br />6. Daihatsu tanto - 100 points<br />7. Fiat 500 - 90 points<br />8. Honda Freed - 62 points<br />9. Mazda Atenza - 60 points<br />10. The Suzuki Wagon R / Wagon R STINGRAY - 37 points<br />11. Subaru Exiga - 31 points<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_iq.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_iq.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 521px; height: 300px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Read More: <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">"Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"<br /><br /><br /></span></div>Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?<br />Posted on Nov 11th, 2008 by Vlad Balan<br />1 Comment Category: Toyota<br /><br />Toyota Cheap Car<br /><br />According to some recent reports, the Japanese giant Toyota is planning on building a $5,000 car aimed at emerging markets. While Tata was in the center of attention with its Nano, its problems with the plants in India significantly delayed the project. Toyota wants to take advantage of that, and even though the car’s pricing is much higher than the $2,000 Nano, the ultra cheap car from Toyota will probably be a lot better. According to Japanese newspaper Asahi, the car will be co-developed with Daihatsu and will be built in Bangalore, India, where Toyota already has a plant and plans on opening another one in 2010. The bad news is that the car won’t make it into production until at least 2015.<br /><br />Toyota is not the only one carmaker trying to explore the emerging markets, with Renault-Nissan group already reaching an agreement with Indian company Bajaj Auto regarding a $2,500 car which is scheduled to be released by 2011.<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_venza_tuning_street.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.rpmgo.com/images/toyota_venza_tuning_street.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 450px; height: 299px;" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Read More: <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">"Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"<br /><br /></span></div>Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA<br />Posted on Oct 20th, 2008 by Vlad Balan<br />No Comments Category: Toyota, Tuning<br /><br />Toyota Venza Tuning Street Image<br /><br />The Toyota Venza Sportlux, which will be on display at this year’s SEMA Show, is based on the new 2009 Venza and it shows Street Image’s vision of a vehicle that could be offered as a factory tuned model. We don’t know if Toyota will consider this model, but the mods are pretty cool. The body kit features six piece lip kit enhancement, rear hatch spoiler, integrated hood scoop, custom grille, mirror turn signals and dual center exiting stainless steel exhaust, plus 24 inch Chrome Cognac No 20 wheels. Mechanical upgrades include a TRD supercharger, oil filler cap and high pressure radiator cap, cold air intake system, Hose Techniques silicone vacuum hose, couplers and t-bolt clamps, a height adjustable coil over suspension and new TRD Big Brakes (15 inch diameter for the front wheels and 13.6 for the rear) with TRD forged calipers.<br /><br />Of course, the interior also got some attention from Street Image, with seating in black and burgundy leather upholstery, accent upholstery in black suede, headliner and sun visors and steering wheel upholstered in black leather plus top of the line in car entertainment system.<br /><br />Read More: "Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA"

Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning package by Wald International

Posted on Mar 20th, 2009 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota, Tuning

Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International

Rappers all around the world rejoice! We usually like the tuning programs from Japanese tuner Wald International but auch, this one makes our eyes hurt. The Toyota Land Cruiser V8 is one big beast, we know that because we had the chance to test drive it last year, and giving at a sporty and aggressive is just…wrong! The Black Bison package features new, huge front bumper, side skirts, rear apron with integrated diffuser, roof wing and new alloy wheels. Unless you’ve got an exaggerated ego and really like to get noticed, we don’t see any reason why anyone would buy this package.

Photo Gallery: Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning by Wald International
Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International Toyota Land Cruiser V8 Tuning Wald International

Read More: "Toyota Land Cruiser V8 tuning package by Wald International"

Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z

Posted on Mar 19th, 2009 by Vlad Balan
3 Comments Category: Toyota

Future Toyota MR2

Introduced in 1984, the Toyota MR2 has been a real success for the Japanese carmaker and many car enthusiasts loved the small sports car. However, Toyota decided to cut down its selection of sports cars and replace them with less aggressive “sports packages”, which meant the MR2 production ended in 2007.

But now there’s some great news coming from AutoExpress who have spoken with Toyota’s executive VP, Masatami Takimoto at the Geneva Motor Show and found out that the company is currently working on a small hybrid sports car, which will wear the MR2 name tag and which will rival the upcoming Honda CR-Z: “We are aware of the fondness with which the MR2 is held in the UK and Europe, and are developing a small hybrid sports car. We have set a tough price point (expected to be around £20,000), as it will be easier to sell if it is affordable. It has to be fun to drive, too, which means the hybrid set-up must be different to the Prius’s, with greater responsiveness.”

AutoExpress also mentions that the new MR2 will have a compact coupe shape and, if developed properly, could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds and could return 60 mpg and less than 100 g/km CO2 emissions. Toyota didn’t say anything about when can we expect to see at least a concept of this car, but we don’t think this car is a priority, the company focusing now on family hybrids, a lot of launches being scheduled for the next 12 months.

Read More: "Toyota considers bringing back the MR2 to rival Honda’s upcoming CR-Z"

Photo Gallery: Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept

Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept

Read More: "Toyota CNG Camry Hybrid Concept debuts at the LA Auto Show"
Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award
Posted on Nov 13th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Citroen, News, Nissan, Toyota

Japanese Car of the Year Awards

Yesterday, the final results for the Japanese Car of the Year were announced and, surprisingly or not, the Toyota iQ is the big winner. The mini car from Toyota managed to take home the award after polling more then 300 than the second place, who went to the Citroen C5. The Nissan GT-R joined them on the podium, taking the third place. For this competition, 65 jurors had 25 votes to give to five vehicles, each juror giving 10 votes to his/her top-rated car before giving the remaining 15 votes to the next four vehicles. The iQ managed to get 10 points from 39 of the jurors. Other awards that were given were for Most Advanced Technology, which went to the GT-R, for Most Fun car (Subaru Exiga) and Best Value (Honda Freed). And here’s the top 10 (the last two were considered a tie) cars nominated and the points they scored.

1. Toyota iQ - 526 points
2. Citroen C5 - 223 points
3. Nissan GT-R - 201 points
4. Audi A4/A4 Avant - 180 points
5. Jaguar XF - 115 points
6. Daihatsu tanto - 100 points
7. Fiat 500 - 90 points
8. Honda Freed - 62 points
9. Mazda Atenza - 60 points
10. The Suzuki Wagon R / Wagon R STINGRAY - 37 points
11. Subaru Exiga - 31 points

Read More: "Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"

Read More: "Toyota iQ wins Japanese Car of the Year award"

Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?
Posted on Nov 11th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
1 Comment Category: Toyota

Toyota Cheap Car

According to some recent reports, the Japanese giant Toyota is planning on building a $5,000 car aimed at emerging markets. While Tata was in the center of attention with its Nano, its problems with the plants in India significantly delayed the project. Toyota wants to take advantage of that, and even though the car’s pricing is much higher than the $2,000 Nano, the ultra cheap car from Toyota will probably be a lot better. According to Japanese newspaper Asahi, the car will be co-developed with Daihatsu and will be built in Bangalore, India, where Toyota already has a plant and plans on opening another one in 2010. The bad news is that the car won’t make it into production until at least 2015.

Toyota is not the only one carmaker trying to explore the emerging markets, with Renault-Nissan group already reaching an agreement with Indian company Bajaj Auto regarding a $2,500 car which is scheduled to be released by 2011.

Read More: "Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"

Read More: "Toyota to build a $5,000 car for emerging markets?"

Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA
Posted on Oct 20th, 2008 by Vlad Balan
No Comments Category: Toyota, Tuning

Toyota Venza Tuning Street Image

The Toyota Venza Sportlux, which will be on display at this year’s SEMA Show, is based on the new 2009 Venza and it shows Street Image’s vision of a vehicle that could be offered as a factory tuned model. We don’t know if Toyota will consider this model, but the mods are pretty cool. The body kit features six piece lip kit enhancement, rear hatch spoiler, integrated hood scoop, custom grille, mirror turn signals and dual center exiting stainless steel exhaust, plus 24 inch Chrome Cognac No 20 wheels. Mechanical upgrades include a TRD supercharger, oil filler cap and high pressure radiator cap, cold air intake system, Hose Techniques silicone vacuum hose, couplers and t-bolt clamps, a height adjustable coil over suspension and new TRD Big Brakes (15 inch diameter for the front wheels and 13.6 for the rear) with TRD forged calipers.

Of course, the interior also got some attention from Street Image, with seating in black and burgundy leather upholstery, accent upholstery in black suede, headliner and sun visors and steering wheel upholstered in black leather plus top of the line in car entertainment system.

Read More: "Toyota Venza Sportlux by Street Image headed for SEMA"

How began to Buy Auto Insurance

<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"> <a href="http://www.carsblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/money-saving-tips.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.carsblog.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/money-saving-tips.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="http://media.merchantcircle.com/1212924/mt1-a_full.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://media.merchantcircle.com/1212924/mt1-a_full.jpeg" width="200" /></a>Type and Amount of Coverage: Nowadays, auto insurance can be easily purchased online. The first step before buying insurance is to decide the type of insurance required. The premium would depend on the kind of coverage. More comprehensive the coverage, higher the premium. The following types of coverage are generally available: basic, comprehensive, collision, property damage, bodily injury, medical payments, personal injury protection, uninsured motorist coverage, emergency roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and auto glass replacement. The basic coverage insures against bodily injury and property damage caused to the counter party in an accident. Property also refers to public property that might have been damaged due to the accident. Comprehensive, as the name suggests, covers all unforeseen events, except accidents. This coverage is useful for people who fear auto theft, vandalism, explosions, earthquakes and other such calamities. Collision insurance, on the other hand, is meant to protect against car damage due to any kind of collision. One does not need to pay a premium for emergency roadside assistance in case he is a member of an auto club.<br /> <br /> Shopping Around for the Best Quote: Auto insurance companies have actuarial tables that document the probability of occurrence of all possible situations. Based on these tables, they provide quotes. These quotes are generally available online on completing a simple application, without a person having to provide sensitive information. In order to get an exact quote, a person would have to mention the type of coverage desired, provide a description of the car, the number of people likely to drive the car, their age, sex and their license numbers. Of course, the premium on any policy would depend greatly on the driving record of the person seeking auto insurance. Any speeding tickets and accidents on record will raise the amount of premium. It would be advisable to keep a copy of the driving record at hand before shopping around for the best deal.<br /> <br /> Availing Discounts: Most insurance companies provide discounts to drivers with a good driving record. Installing anti-theft devices in the car can also help in obtaining a discount. Sometimes auto insurance companies may provide discounts to youngsters who have completed a driver's safety course. In addition to these discounts, one can avail discounts, in case one has been with the same insurance company for many years. A smart way to avail discounts is to opt for group insurance, or insure more than one car at a time.<br /> <br /> Checking Company References: A person should ensure that he is buying insurance from a reputable company with good financial prospects. One should also check for consumer complaints against a company.<br /> <br /> Auto insurance is a must for every car owner. Just as a good credit rating helps a person get credit at lower rates of interest, a good driving record will lower the premium on various policies and help one secure inexpensive auto insurance. A person should buy a policy that suits his needs. For instance, it makes no sense to buy comprehensive or collision insurance on a vehicle that has depreciated so much that it has no value. Similarly, personal injury protection is unnecessary for a person covered by a good health insurance. These are some of the ways of deciding on an appropriate auto insurance policy.<br /> <br /> By Aparna Iyer</div>

Type and Amount of Coverage: Nowadays, auto insurance can be easily purchased online. The first step before buying insurance is to decide the type of insurance required. The premium would depend on the kind of coverage. More comprehensive the coverage, higher the premium. The following types of coverage are generally available: basic, comprehensive, collision, property damage, bodily injury, medical payments, personal injury protection, uninsured motorist coverage, emergency roadside assistance, rental car reimbursement, and auto glass replacement. The basic coverage insures against bodily injury and property damage caused to the counter party in an accident. Property also refers to public property that might have been damaged due to the accident. Comprehensive, as the name suggests, covers all unforeseen events, except accidents. This coverage is useful for people who fear auto theft, vandalism, explosions, earthquakes and other such calamities. Collision insurance, on the other hand, is meant to protect against car damage due to any kind of collision. One does not need to pay a premium for emergency roadside assistance in case he is a member of an auto club.

Shopping Around for the Best Quote: Auto insurance companies have actuarial tables that document the probability of occurrence of all possible situations. Based on these tables, they provide quotes. These quotes are generally available online on completing a simple application, without a person having to provide sensitive information. In order to get an exact quote, a person would have to mention the type of coverage desired, provide a description of the car, the number of people likely to drive the car, their age, sex and their license numbers. Of course, the premium on any policy would depend greatly on the driving record of the person seeking auto insurance. Any speeding tickets and accidents on record will raise the amount of premium. It would be advisable to keep a copy of the driving record at hand before shopping around for the best deal.

Availing Discounts: Most insurance companies provide discounts to drivers with a good driving record. Installing anti-theft devices in the car can also help in obtaining a discount. Sometimes auto insurance companies may provide discounts to youngsters who have completed a driver's safety course. In addition to these discounts, one can avail discounts, in case one has been with the same insurance company for many years. A smart way to avail discounts is to opt for group insurance, or insure more than one car at a time.

Checking Company References: A person should ensure that he is buying insurance from a reputable company with good financial prospects. One should also check for consumer complaints against a company.

Auto insurance is a must for every car owner. Just as a good credit rating helps a person get credit at lower rates of interest, a good driving record will lower the premium on various policies and help one secure inexpensive auto insurance. A person should buy a policy that suits his needs. For instance, it makes no sense to buy comprehensive or collision insurance on a vehicle that has depreciated so much that it has no value. Similarly, personal injury protection is unnecessary for a person covered by a good health insurance. These are some of the ways of deciding on an appropriate auto insurance policy.

By Aparna Iyer

Ford Motors Launches Ford Figo: Small Cool Car in Indin Market

India's role as an important player in the future of <a href="http://www.ford.com/" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Ford Motor</a> Company's international strategy was underscored today when the company's President and CEO, Alan Mulally, unveiled an all-new car targeting the heart of the Indian car market - the new Ford Figo.<br /><br />The Ford Figo, a new nameplate and a fresh face on the Indian market, signals Ford's intention to compete in India's largest and most important small car market segment.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8WRFgQjI/AAAAAAAABaA/17YhnR4_OOM/s1600-h/ford-figo-launch.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385245607669547570" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8WRFgQjI/AAAAAAAABaA/17YhnR4_OOM/s400/ford-figo-launch.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 256px;" /></a>Ford Figo is the result of a significant Ford investment commitment to expand its plant near Chennai for volume production as a small-car centre of excellence regionally. Ford's $500 million investment has doubled the plant's production capacity to 200,000 units per year and introduces major advances in high-quality automation and innovative, eco-friendly production techniques.<br /><br />"Our exciting new Ford Figo shows how serious we are about India," Mulally said. "It reflects our commitment to compete with great products in all segments of this car market. We are confident the Ford Figo will be a product that Indian consumers really want and value."<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8YVLYUmI/AAAAAAAABag/W0is9rr58Ng/s1600-h/ford-figo-car-launch-india.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385245643127673442" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8YVLYUmI/AAAAAAAABag/W0is9rr58Ng/s400/ford-figo-car-launch-india.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 225px;" /></a>Ford Figo is designed and engineered to compete in India's small car segment, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the new vehicle market. It leverages Ford's small-car platform architecture, sharing underlying technology with the Ford Fiesta, already familiar to Indian drivers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Shape, Solid Foundation</span><br />Today's press conference in Delhi was the first public preview of the exterior design of the new Ford Figo. Ford is reserving further details about the vehicle until closer to its production launch early in 2010.<br /><br />Design-conscious Italy inspired the new Ford Figo's name. Figo is colloquial Italian for "cool."<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8X059XAI/AAAAAAAABaY/f3rqoyaA7yo/s1600-h/ford-figo.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385245634464668674" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8X059XAI/AAAAAAAABaY/f3rqoyaA7yo/s400/ford-figo.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 242px;" /></a>Sharing key elements of Ford's kinetic design language with vehicles like the globally renowned Ford Focus, Ford Mondeo and the Ford Fiesta, Ford Figo features a fresh, contemporary shape that will be a distinctive alternative to traditional brands in this segment. The design language conveys a dynamic spirit of energy in motion.<br /><br />Quality, substance and generous proportions are clearly evident in the design of the new Ford Figo, which features a solid stance, an invitingly large interior and a vibrant, youthful character. Its package is right-sized for the market, which is predominated by congested urban driving conditions.<br /><br />From its modern headlamps, grille shapes and sculpted bonnet of its distinctive face to the subtle integrated spoiler and chamfered window shape at the rear, Ford Figo is filled with kinetic design touches. These also include sculpted shapes to the body side - chiseled front fenders, a "comet tail" undercut in the doors and additional light-catching sculpting in the lower bodyside - which combine to communicate the solidity, substance and protective safety of its design.<br /><br />The bold graphic of Ford Figo's large side window shape is another key kinetic design feature hinting at the comfort and spaciousness awaiting occupants' front and rear. The side window graphic is executed with a blacked-out B-pillar, an elegant design touch that unifies the side windows into one shape visually.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8XCu9k_I/AAAAAAAABaQ/H9KjsNNkv4Y/s1600-h/ford-figo-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385245620996772850" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8XCu9k_I/AAAAAAAABaQ/H9KjsNNkv4Y/s400/ford-figo-1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 200px;" /></a>With its wheels positioned at the four corners of the vehicle with minimal overhang, Ford Figo's bold wheel arches self-assuredly signal its agility and solidity.<br /><br />"We're confident that the new Ford Figo will be extremely attractive to Indian car buyers," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "It's going to be very competitive with the current market leaders and offer a tremendous value story for our consumers. We believe Ford Figo is a big game-changer for Ford that will help transform our brand into a volume player in India."<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">New Ford Regional Production Centre</span><br />The introduction of the new Ford Figo marks a significant shift for India's role in Ford's strategy. Transformed with a production capacity of 200,000 units, the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility is now positioned as a Ford regional centre of excellence for small-car engineering and production.<br /><br />Ford Figo models will be produced at the plant for export to international markets. The plant is also being groomed to produce diesel and petrol engines for local vehicle production and export within Ford's Asia Pacific and Africa region.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8WroxkLI/AAAAAAAABaI/RETniFv3NPU/s1600-h/Ford_figo_2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5385245614796804274" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/Srw8WroxkLI/AAAAAAAABaI/RETniFv3NPU/s400/Ford_figo_2.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 267px;" /></a>With more automation and high-tech new facilities, the new site reflects the latest Ford manufacturing processes globally and pioneers new technologies for Ford and India. Created with a "best of the best" approach, it has been benchmarked against other competitive facilities globally, as well as the current volume manufacturers in the Indian market, for quality and production efficiency.<br /><br />The transformed plant introduces eco-friendly production techniques like its new Three-Wet High-Solids paint process. This approach produces beautifully painted vehicles with three wet coats - primer, base coat and clear coat - of high solids-content paint applied one after the other without oven curing between coats. A first for India, it produces fewer carbon dioxide emissions and reduces volatile organic compounds emissions by about 20 percent compared to current medium-solids solvent-borne paints. Use of high-solids content results in a paint finish with high levels of gloss and depth of colour which is more resistant to scratches and stone chips.<br /><br />Courtesy: Ford Motors India India's role as an important player in the future of Ford Motor Company's international strategy was underscored today when the company's President and CEO, Alan Mulally, unveiled an all-new car targeting the heart of the Indian car market - the new Ford Figo.

The Ford Figo, a new nameplate and a fresh face on the Indian market, signals Ford's intention to compete in India's largest and most important small car market segment.

Ford Figo is the result of a significant Ford investment commitment to expand its plant near Chennai for volume production as a small-car centre of excellence regionally. Ford's $500 million investment has doubled the plant's production capacity to 200,000 units per year and introduces major advances in high-quality automation and innovative, eco-friendly production techniques.

"Our exciting new Ford Figo shows how serious we are about India," Mulally said. "It reflects our commitment to compete with great products in all segments of this car market. We are confident the Ford Figo will be a product that Indian consumers really want and value."

Ford Figo is designed and engineered to compete in India's small car segment, which accounts for more than 70 percent of the new vehicle market. It leverages Ford's small-car platform architecture, sharing underlying technology with the Ford Fiesta, already familiar to Indian drivers.

New Shape, Solid Foundation
Today's press conference in Delhi was the first public preview of the exterior design of the new Ford Figo. Ford is reserving further details about the vehicle until closer to its production launch early in 2010.

Design-conscious Italy inspired the new Ford Figo's name. Figo is colloquial Italian for "cool."

Sharing key elements of Ford's kinetic design language with vehicles like the globally renowned Ford Focus, Ford Mondeo and the Ford Fiesta, Ford Figo features a fresh, contemporary shape that will be a distinctive alternative to traditional brands in this segment. The design language conveys a dynamic spirit of energy in motion.

Quality, substance and generous proportions are clearly evident in the design of the new Ford Figo, which features a solid stance, an invitingly large interior and a vibrant, youthful character. Its package is right-sized for the market, which is predominated by congested urban driving conditions.

From its modern headlamps, grille shapes and sculpted bonnet of its distinctive face to the subtle integrated spoiler and chamfered window shape at the rear, Ford Figo is filled with kinetic design touches. These also include sculpted shapes to the body side - chiseled front fenders, a "comet tail" undercut in the doors and additional light-catching sculpting in the lower bodyside - which combine to communicate the solidity, substance and protective safety of its design.

The bold graphic of Ford Figo's large side window shape is another key kinetic design feature hinting at the comfort and spaciousness awaiting occupants' front and rear. The side window graphic is executed with a blacked-out B-pillar, an elegant design touch that unifies the side windows into one shape visually.

With its wheels positioned at the four corners of the vehicle with minimal overhang, Ford Figo's bold wheel arches self-assuredly signal its agility and solidity.

"We're confident that the new Ford Figo will be extremely attractive to Indian car buyers," said Michael Boneham, president and managing director, Ford India. "It's going to be very competitive with the current market leaders and offer a tremendous value story for our consumers. We believe Ford Figo is a big game-changer for Ford that will help transform our brand into a volume player in India."

New Ford Regional Production Centre
The introduction of the new Ford Figo marks a significant shift for India's role in Ford's strategy. Transformed with a production capacity of 200,000 units, the integrated Chennai manufacturing facility is now positioned as a Ford regional centre of excellence for small-car engineering and production.

Ford Figo models will be produced at the plant for export to international markets. The plant is also being groomed to produce diesel and petrol engines for local vehicle production and export within Ford's Asia Pacific and Africa region.

With more automation and high-tech new facilities, the new site reflects the latest Ford manufacturing processes globally and pioneers new technologies for Ford and India. Created with a "best of the best" approach, it has been benchmarked against other competitive facilities globally, as well as the current volume manufacturers in the Indian market, for quality and production efficiency.

The transformed plant introduces eco-friendly production techniques like its new Three-Wet High-Solids paint process. This approach produces beautifully painted vehicles with three wet coats - primer, base coat and clear coat - of high solids-content paint applied one after the other without oven curing between coats. A first for India, it produces fewer carbon dioxide emissions and reduces volatile organic compounds emissions by about 20 percent compared to current medium-solids solvent-borne paints. Use of high-solids content results in a paint finish with high levels of gloss and depth of colour which is more resistant to scratches and stone chips.

Courtesy: Ford Motors India

Honda Siel Cars Launched New Honda Civic in India @ Rs.11.8 Lakh

New Delhi, September 8, 2009: <a href="http://www.hondacarindia.com/" style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold;">Honda Siel Cars India</a> (HSCI) Ltd., leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched the new Honda Civic with aesthically designed new looks.<br /><br />The new Honda Civic further augments the style quotient of the globally successful and India's most loved LD segment car - the Honda Civic. It is an excellent combination of new-age and sporty design and aggressive appeal together with the cutting-edge technology and refined engine.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXjpo58zI/AAAAAAAABWg/5J1LV22ZVd8/s1600-h/New-Honda-civic.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379153443669275442" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXjpo58zI/AAAAAAAABWg/5J1LV22ZVd8/s400/New-Honda-civic.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 250px;" /></a>The new Civic juxtaposes Honda's advanced technology with striking design. The new Curved 5 Point Metallic Front Grille and restyled Front Sporty Bumper add to a pulsating and aggressive appeal of the car. The introduction of stylized Dark Smokey Headlights & Crystalline Octagonal Tail Lights enhance the contemporary look of the car.<br /><br />The new Honda Civic comes with more exclusive features that make it an even more desirable sedan. In line with the preferences of the customers, the audio system of the new Civic comes equipped with a USB port together with the CD player. The intelligent fuel economy indicator introduced in the new Honda Civic will enable the customers to achieve the good fuel efficiency.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXj5wNZOI/AAAAAAAABWo/UHNQVujNuMk/s1600-h/new-honda-civic-1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379153447994877154" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXj5wNZOI/AAAAAAAABWo/UHNQVujNuMk/s400/new-honda-civic-1.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 222px;" /></a>New HOnda Civic will be available in 3 variants – Honda Civic SMT, Honda Civic VMT & Honda Civic VAT. Honda civic will have an additional color option Polished Metal along with the existing colors available in the range.<br /><br />The new Honda Civic SMT comes with two tone luxury high quality fabric seats with matching fabric on door panels & armrest. Honda Civic VMT & VAT comes with a steering mounted cruise control system that helps to cruise at the desired speed with one touch operation. It also comes with a new sporty fog light with garnish and newly designed alloy wheel.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXkmh6luI/AAAAAAAABW4/QPIDbBzANe0/s1600-h/new-honda-civic-interior.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379153460014520034" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXkmh6luI/AAAAAAAABW4/QPIDbBzANe0/s400/new-honda-civic-interior.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 280px;" /></a>Additionally, all the Honda Civic variants will be available in 2 attractive types – Elegance and Inspire.<br /><br />The 1.8 L i-VTEC engine in the new Honda Civic is the most advanced engine technology available in the segment. It combines Honda's i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology with VTC (Variable Time Control), delivering both powerful performance and superior fuel economy. The i-VTEC regulates the opening of air-fuel intake valves and exhaust valves in accordance with engine speeds. By regulating valve opening to match engine speed, the agile i-VTEC engine adjusts its characteristics to realize both superior power and low fuel consumption. With i-VTEC engine technology, Honda is working to ensure environmental responsibility while delivering driving pleasure.<br /><br />The ARAI fuel efficiency results of 15.5 km/l for Civic MT reiterates its unmatched fuel economy. In line with Honda's mission to reduce its environment footprint, the new Honda Civic is E10 compatible and has Euro IV emission levels.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXkY6VfzI/AAAAAAAABWw/r_mtPHneYtw/s1600-h/new-honda-civic-3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379153456358850354" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXkY6VfzI/AAAAAAAABWw/r_mtPHneYtw/s400/new-honda-civic-3.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 280px;" /></a>Safety of passengers and pedestrians is a top priority for Honda and all safety equipment is standard across all variants. The Honda Civic comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti – Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake – Force Distribution System) & Brake Assist, Dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body (ACE) and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles.<br /><br />Launched in 2006, the Honda Civic redefined the lower D segment of passenger car segment in India. This segment witnessed unprecedented sales soon after the launch of the Honda Civic. HSCI has sold over 42,000 units in just over 3 years. Honda Civic has won 10 automobile awards including the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2007. It was also winner of the JD Power Initial Quality Study in its very 1st year with the best ever score in the Industry.<br /><br />Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Masahiro Takedagawa, President and CEO, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. said, "The Honda Civic is a segment defining product both in terms of looks and performance. The new Honda Civic carries forward the legacy of the Civic which is already the most refined and advanced car in the segment."<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXlFAnPlI/AAAAAAAABXA/wC2pukKEy_U/s1600-h/new-honda-civic-4.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5379153468196339282" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_rd0_KdrRxb0/SqaXlFAnPlI/AAAAAAAABXA/wC2pukKEy_U/s400/new-honda-civic-4.jpg" style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" /></a>Bookings for the new Honda Civic will start immediately at the company's distribution network of 106 authorised dealership facilities, across the country. This network is likely to go up to 112 facilities by the end of the current financial year.<br /><br />The all Honda Civic comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24-hr roadside assistance as standard value for all new Honda Civic buyers.<br /><br />The New Honda Civic car is priced in the range of Rs.11.80 lakh to Rs. 14.13 lakh at showrooms in Delhi.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Courtesy: hondacarindia.com</span> New Delhi, September 8, 2009: Honda Siel Cars India (HSCI) Ltd., leading manufacturer of premium cars in India, today launched the new Honda Civic with aesthically designed new looks.

The new Honda Civic further augments the style quotient of the globally successful and India's most loved LD segment car - the Honda Civic. It is an excellent combination of new-age and sporty design and aggressive appeal together with the cutting-edge technology and refined engine.

The new Civic juxtaposes Honda's advanced technology with striking design. The new Curved 5 Point Metallic Front Grille and restyled Front Sporty Bumper add to a pulsating and aggressive appeal of the car. The introduction of stylized Dark Smokey Headlights & Crystalline Octagonal Tail Lights enhance the contemporary look of the car.

The new Honda Civic comes with more exclusive features that make it an even more desirable sedan. In line with the preferences of the customers, the audio system of the new Civic comes equipped with a USB port together with the CD player. The intelligent fuel economy indicator introduced in the new Honda Civic will enable the customers to achieve the good fuel efficiency.

New HOnda Civic will be available in 3 variants – Honda Civic SMT, Honda Civic VMT & Honda Civic VAT. Honda civic will have an additional color option Polished Metal along with the existing colors available in the range.

The new Honda Civic SMT comes with two tone luxury high quality fabric seats with matching fabric on door panels & armrest. Honda Civic VMT & VAT comes with a steering mounted cruise control system that helps to cruise at the desired speed with one touch operation. It also comes with a new sporty fog light with garnish and newly designed alloy wheel.

Additionally, all the Honda Civic variants will be available in 2 attractive types – Elegance and Inspire.

The 1.8 L i-VTEC engine in the new Honda Civic is the most advanced engine technology available in the segment. It combines Honda's i-VTEC (Intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology with VTC (Variable Time Control), delivering both powerful performance and superior fuel economy. The i-VTEC regulates the opening of air-fuel intake valves and exhaust valves in accordance with engine speeds. By regulating valve opening to match engine speed, the agile i-VTEC engine adjusts its characteristics to realize both superior power and low fuel consumption. With i-VTEC engine technology, Honda is working to ensure environmental responsibility while delivering driving pleasure.

The ARAI fuel efficiency results of 15.5 km/l for Civic MT reiterates its unmatched fuel economy. In line with Honda's mission to reduce its environment footprint, the new Honda Civic is E10 compatible and has Euro IV emission levels.

Safety of passengers and pedestrians is a top priority for Honda and all safety equipment is standard across all variants. The Honda Civic comes fully loaded with various active and passive safety features including ABS (Anti – Lock braking system) with EBD (Electronic Brake – Force Distribution System) & Brake Assist, Dual SRS airbags and pre-tensioner seat belts. Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering Body (ACE) and G-CON (G-Force Control Technology) provide a high integrity survival zone that enhances self-protection and better compatibility in collisions with other vehicles.

Launched in 2006, the Honda Civic redefined the lower D segment of passenger car segment in India. This segment witnessed unprecedented sales soon after the launch of the Honda Civic. HSCI has sold over 42,000 units in just over 3 years. Honda Civic has won 10 automobile awards including the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2007. It was also winner of the JD Power Initial Quality Study in its very 1st year with the best ever score in the Industry.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Masahiro Takedagawa, President and CEO, Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. said, "The Honda Civic is a segment defining product both in terms of looks and performance. The new Honda Civic carries forward the legacy of the Civic which is already the most refined and advanced car in the segment."

Bookings for the new Honda Civic will start immediately at the company's distribution network of 106 authorised dealership facilities, across the country. This network is likely to go up to 112 facilities by the end of the current financial year.

The all Honda Civic comes with a 2+2 year warranty and 24-hr roadside assistance as standard value for all new Honda Civic buyers.

The New Honda Civic car is priced in the range of Rs.11.80 lakh to Rs. 14.13 lakh at showrooms in Delhi.

Courtesy: hondacarindia.com

Evo Hardware, WRX Pricing

<img alt="Evo Hardware, WRX Pricing" src="http://a332.g.akamai.net/f/332/936/12h/www.edmunds.com/media/roadtests/firstdrive/2009/mitsubishi.lancer.ralliart/08.mitsubishi.lancer.ralliart.340.jpg" style="width: 341px; height: 302px;" /><br />We're up before first light to drive the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart. We want some time with it on our favorite roads before Los Angeles commuters start short-cutting through the canyons to avoid the slog on the freeway.<br /><br />If this was a 2006 Lancer Ralliart, with its normally aspirated 2.4-liter engine and soft suspension, we might still be in bed right now. But this 2009 Lancer Ralliart sedan feels like it's a world apart (maybe two) from that car, and so we scald our tongue on gas station coffee as the twin-clutch gearbox grabs 2nd gear. When the road opens before us, the Ralliart's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is full of life, revving to its 6,500-rpm redline with a fervor that's as exciting as it is familiar.<br /><br />Undoubtedly you've heard that the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is carrying all kinds of Evo-derived hardware. This turbo 2.0-liter is a medium-hot version of the engine in the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, while the automated manual gearbox, officially called the Twin Clutch-Sequential Sportshift Transmission (TC-SST), comes straight from the Evo X MR. The all-wheel-drive system, complete with Mitsu's Active Center Differential (ACD), is from the Evolution IX.<br /><br />Driving a Ralliart probably won't stop you from wanting the full-on Evo X experience. But when the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart goes on sale at the beginning of September 2008, it will be the first direct challenge to the Subaru Impreza WRX. This car is good, and it should be priced right.<br /><br />The Hallowed Middle Ground<br />For years, the regular-strength Subaru WRX has been the performance buy of choice if you want a brand-new car and simply cannot spend more than $30,000. The Mazdaspeed 3 has proven an interesting alternative, but a front-wheel-drive layout limits its hard-core appeal.<br /><br />Unless you're looking at used Evos, Mitsubishi doesn't have anything in this price range. A loaded Lancer GTS tops out around $22K, and the cheapest Evolution X GSR starts north of $33K. This leaves a big opening for the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.<br /><br />Although this is a chunky sedan with the same exterior dimensions as the regular Mitsubishi Lancer (and consequently, a 0.6-inch-narrower track than the Evo), you don't have to spend much time with the Ralliart to understand how seriously it takes its performance mission. Yet, like it or not, superficial impressions also count for a lot on a car like this (just ask Subaru), and that's why the '09 Ralliart looks like an Evolution X to the casual viewer.<br /><br />Its snarky grille and aluminum hood (complete with NACA duct and twin heat extraction vents) come direct from the elite Mitsu. Only the Ralliart badges and the 18-inch wheels from the Lancer GTS suggest the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's lesser status. Not that much lesser, though, if you take the time to read the tire sidewalls and discover these are Yokohama Advan A10s, and these 215/45R18s are summer tires to boot. Inside, real Recaro seats swallow you up, provided you ante up for a package option that also includes HID headlights and Rockford Fosgate sound.<br /><br />You open the hood, and everything is as it should be here, too. There's Mitsubishi's 4B11T ("T" for "turbo"), all-aluminum 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, there's the turbocharger behind it (with plenty of room to spare), and, up front, the air-to-air intercooler.<br /><br />A Lot of Engine<br />We're almost surprised to see Mitsu using a 2.0-liter engine in the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, as Subaru and Mazda have moved on to larger-displacement, four-cylinders for their more favorable torque characteristics. Yet, after five minutes in the Ralliart, it's obvious Mitsu's decision has been the right one.<br /><br />The engine itself is identical to the one in the Evo, right down to the 86mm-by-86mm bore and stroke, semi-closed-deck block and forged crankshaft and pistons. A Mitsubishi product planner tells us that the engineers considered using less aggressive camshaft profiles for the Ralliart, but decided to keep them unchanged. Even the compression ratio is identical at 9.0:1.<br /><br />The main difference on the 2009 Ralliart is its turbocharger, which is a smaller, single-scroll unit instead of the twin-scroll turbo in the Evolution X. The Ralliart also has its own intake system, while the exhaust system is shared. The result is 237 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 253 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. The torque band is amazingly flat, with close to 250 lb-ft available from 2,500-4,500 rpm. Redline is 6,500 rpm.<br /><br />These totals fall well short of the Evo's 291 hp and 300 lb-ft, but they're squarely between the WRX (224 hp and 226 lb-ft) and Mazdaspeed 3 (263 hp and 280 lb-ft).<br /><br />The Ralliart outweighs these rivals by a couple hundred pounds, though, so you expect it to feel slower. Yet it doesn't, and there's astonishingly little turbo lag besides. Mitsu product planners expect it to match the WRX and MS3 in the acceleration department, meaning 0-60 mph in 6 seconds and a quarter-mile time in the mid-14-second range.<br /><br />Because Not Even You Can Shift This Well<br />We suspect the dual-clutch gearbox has much to do with how quick the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart feels. It's the best of the automated manual transmissions we've sampled to date, and its deft control over gear selection and shift timing ensures that the 2.0-liter engine is almost always in the meat of its power band.<br /><br />If you want a regular five-speed manual transmission in your Ralliart, forget about it. We're told the U.S. product planning staff really wanted to offer one to appease the hard-core fringe, but was overruled by product planners in Japan. There's still a chance we might get one down the road, but for '09, all Ralliarts have the TC-SST.<br /><br />Gearing for the dual-clutch transmission is identical to the version in the Evo X MR, with the exception of the 5th and 6th gear ratios, which are taller to allow more relaxed highway cruising and promote better fuel economy (likely an EPA rating of 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway). In addition, the most aggressive "Super Sport" shift program has been eliminated, leaving only Normal and Sport modes, with manual gear selection possible in both. In Sport mode, upshifts are firmer and downshifts are rev-matched.<br /><br />The dual-clutch gearbox drives all four wheels through Mitsubishi's All Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel-drive system, and just as on the Evo VIII, IX and X, there are Tarmac, Gravel and Snow modes, allowing the driver to exert some control over how the center differential behaves. Unlike the WRX, the 2009 Lancer Ralliart has mechanical front and rear limited-slip differentials, yet still offers stability control as standard. The Evo X's active yaw control is not part of the package. Further, different-length half-shafts on the narrower Ralliart will prevent owners from swapping components between the two.<br /><br />More Playful Than Its Peers<br />With all the Evo kit on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, you might wonder where Mitsu engineers made some cuts to keep the price down. Brian Arnett, manager of product strategy, admits that they weren't able to use any aluminum for the Ralliart's suspension. In addition, the rear crossbrace that enhances structural rigidity has been eliminated to preserve a folding rear seat for more cargo capacity.<br /><br />Essentially, then, this is the same front strut/rear multilink arrangement you'll find on the standard Lancer, though the rear has been modified to allow packaging of the AWD system and now includes semi-trailing arms. Spring and damper rates are unique to the Ralliart — meaning firmer than the Lancer GTS setup but less aggressive than the Evo X. The front strut-tower brace, already present on the GTS, is also stiffer.<br /><br />Like many Mitsubishi employees, Arnett used to drive an Evo, but more interesting to us is that before he worked for Mitsu, he was a die-hard owner of an Eclipse GSX, a car more in keeping with the spirit of the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.<br /><br />Run through tight turns, the Ralliart isn't as sharp as the Evo X, but it turns in quicker than the Lancer GTS and has significantly less body roll. It also feels stiffer and more aggressive than the WRX. It has the same 15.2:1 steering ratio as the lesser Lancers, but Mitsubishi has added a variable-flow power steering pump, which greatly improves the weighting immediately off-center. A smaller steering wheel, shared with the Evo, adds to the impression (if not the reality) of heightened maneuverability.<br /><br />The Lancer Ralliart also does something that the second-gen WRX just won't do. It plays like it's a rear-wheel-drive car. Switch off the stability control and the tail immediately comes alive. You might scoff at those skinny 215-series tires, but the fact is, they add a lot to the car's entertainment value when they break traction. Grippier rubber just wouldn't be as much fun.<br /><br />Braking hardware is similarly mundane on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, and we expect many owners will choose to make upgrades here. With the exception of dual-piston front calipers borrowed from the Outlander, this is the same ventilated front disc/solid rear disc setup found on other Lancers.<br /><br />They Could Have Called It an Evo<br />With all the Evolution-grade hardware on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, we doubt anyone would get angry if the company appended "Evo" to its name. More important, the Ralliart is a nicely resolved machine in its own right. It's not as polished as the Evo X, but you can have nearly as much fun with it.<br /><br />The Ralliart is also more entertaining than just about any of its direct competitors. Even so, we suspect its impressive plate of technology could make it significantly more expensive than a comparably equipped WRX or Mazdaspeed 3. Given the $38K price tag on an Evo MR with the twin-clutch box, we wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 Lancer Ralliart ends up with a price tag near $30,000.
We're up before first light to drive the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart. We want some time with it on our favorite roads before Los Angeles commuters start short-cutting through the canyons to avoid the slog on the freeway.

If this was a 2006 Lancer Ralliart, with its normally aspirated 2.4-liter engine and soft suspension, we might still be in bed right now. But this 2009 Lancer Ralliart sedan feels like it's a world apart (maybe two) from that car, and so we scald our tongue on gas station coffee as the twin-clutch gearbox grabs 2nd gear. When the road opens before us, the Ralliart's turbocharged 2.0-liter engine is full of life, revving to its 6,500-rpm redline with a fervor that's as exciting as it is familiar.

Undoubtedly you've heard that the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart is carrying all kinds of Evo-derived hardware. This turbo 2.0-liter is a medium-hot version of the engine in the 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, while the automated manual gearbox, officially called the Twin Clutch-Sequential Sportshift Transmission (TC-SST), comes straight from the Evo X MR. The all-wheel-drive system, complete with Mitsu's Active Center Differential (ACD), is from the Evolution IX.

Driving a Ralliart probably won't stop you from wanting the full-on Evo X experience. But when the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart goes on sale at the beginning of September 2008, it will be the first direct challenge to the Subaru Impreza WRX. This car is good, and it should be priced right.

The Hallowed Middle Ground
For years, the regular-strength Subaru WRX has been the performance buy of choice if you want a brand-new car and simply cannot spend more than $30,000. The Mazdaspeed 3 has proven an interesting alternative, but a front-wheel-drive layout limits its hard-core appeal.

Unless you're looking at used Evos, Mitsubishi doesn't have anything in this price range. A loaded Lancer GTS tops out around $22K, and the cheapest Evolution X GSR starts north of $33K. This leaves a big opening for the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.

Although this is a chunky sedan with the same exterior dimensions as the regular Mitsubishi Lancer (and consequently, a 0.6-inch-narrower track than the Evo), you don't have to spend much time with the Ralliart to understand how seriously it takes its performance mission. Yet, like it or not, superficial impressions also count for a lot on a car like this (just ask Subaru), and that's why the '09 Ralliart looks like an Evolution X to the casual viewer.

Its snarky grille and aluminum hood (complete with NACA duct and twin heat extraction vents) come direct from the elite Mitsu. Only the Ralliart badges and the 18-inch wheels from the Lancer GTS suggest the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart's lesser status. Not that much lesser, though, if you take the time to read the tire sidewalls and discover these are Yokohama Advan A10s, and these 215/45R18s are summer tires to boot. Inside, real Recaro seats swallow you up, provided you ante up for a package option that also includes HID headlights and Rockford Fosgate sound.

You open the hood, and everything is as it should be here, too. There's Mitsubishi's 4B11T ("T" for "turbo"), all-aluminum 2.0-liter inline-4 engine, there's the turbocharger behind it (with plenty of room to spare), and, up front, the air-to-air intercooler.

A Lot of Engine
We're almost surprised to see Mitsu using a 2.0-liter engine in the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, as Subaru and Mazda have moved on to larger-displacement, four-cylinders for their more favorable torque characteristics. Yet, after five minutes in the Ralliart, it's obvious Mitsu's decision has been the right one.

The engine itself is identical to the one in the Evo, right down to the 86mm-by-86mm bore and stroke, semi-closed-deck block and forged crankshaft and pistons. A Mitsubishi product planner tells us that the engineers considered using less aggressive camshaft profiles for the Ralliart, but decided to keep them unchanged. Even the compression ratio is identical at 9.0:1.

The main difference on the 2009 Ralliart is its turbocharger, which is a smaller, single-scroll unit instead of the twin-scroll turbo in the Evolution X. The Ralliart also has its own intake system, while the exhaust system is shared. The result is 237 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 253 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. The torque band is amazingly flat, with close to 250 lb-ft available from 2,500-4,500 rpm. Redline is 6,500 rpm.

These totals fall well short of the Evo's 291 hp and 300 lb-ft, but they're squarely between the WRX (224 hp and 226 lb-ft) and Mazdaspeed 3 (263 hp and 280 lb-ft).

The Ralliart outweighs these rivals by a couple hundred pounds, though, so you expect it to feel slower. Yet it doesn't, and there's astonishingly little turbo lag besides. Mitsu product planners expect it to match the WRX and MS3 in the acceleration department, meaning 0-60 mph in 6 seconds and a quarter-mile time in the mid-14-second range.

Because Not Even You Can Shift This Well
We suspect the dual-clutch gearbox has much to do with how quick the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart feels. It's the best of the automated manual transmissions we've sampled to date, and its deft control over gear selection and shift timing ensures that the 2.0-liter engine is almost always in the meat of its power band.

If you want a regular five-speed manual transmission in your Ralliart, forget about it. We're told the U.S. product planning staff really wanted to offer one to appease the hard-core fringe, but was overruled by product planners in Japan. There's still a chance we might get one down the road, but for '09, all Ralliarts have the TC-SST.

Gearing for the dual-clutch transmission is identical to the version in the Evo X MR, with the exception of the 5th and 6th gear ratios, which are taller to allow more relaxed highway cruising and promote better fuel economy (likely an EPA rating of 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway). In addition, the most aggressive "Super Sport" shift program has been eliminated, leaving only Normal and Sport modes, with manual gear selection possible in both. In Sport mode, upshifts are firmer and downshifts are rev-matched.

The dual-clutch gearbox drives all four wheels through Mitsubishi's All Wheel Control (AWC) all-wheel-drive system, and just as on the Evo VIII, IX and X, there are Tarmac, Gravel and Snow modes, allowing the driver to exert some control over how the center differential behaves. Unlike the WRX, the 2009 Lancer Ralliart has mechanical front and rear limited-slip differentials, yet still offers stability control as standard. The Evo X's active yaw control is not part of the package. Further, different-length half-shafts on the narrower Ralliart will prevent owners from swapping components between the two.

More Playful Than Its Peers
With all the Evo kit on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, you might wonder where Mitsu engineers made some cuts to keep the price down. Brian Arnett, manager of product strategy, admits that they weren't able to use any aluminum for the Ralliart's suspension. In addition, the rear crossbrace that enhances structural rigidity has been eliminated to preserve a folding rear seat for more cargo capacity.

Essentially, then, this is the same front strut/rear multilink arrangement you'll find on the standard Lancer, though the rear has been modified to allow packaging of the AWD system and now includes semi-trailing arms. Spring and damper rates are unique to the Ralliart — meaning firmer than the Lancer GTS setup but less aggressive than the Evo X. The front strut-tower brace, already present on the GTS, is also stiffer.

Like many Mitsubishi employees, Arnett used to drive an Evo, but more interesting to us is that before he worked for Mitsu, he was a die-hard owner of an Eclipse GSX, a car more in keeping with the spirit of the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart.

Run through tight turns, the Ralliart isn't as sharp as the Evo X, but it turns in quicker than the Lancer GTS and has significantly less body roll. It also feels stiffer and more aggressive than the WRX. It has the same 15.2:1 steering ratio as the lesser Lancers, but Mitsubishi has added a variable-flow power steering pump, which greatly improves the weighting immediately off-center. A smaller steering wheel, shared with the Evo, adds to the impression (if not the reality) of heightened maneuverability.

The Lancer Ralliart also does something that the second-gen WRX just won't do. It plays like it's a rear-wheel-drive car. Switch off the stability control and the tail immediately comes alive. You might scoff at those skinny 215-series tires, but the fact is, they add a lot to the car's entertainment value when they break traction. Grippier rubber just wouldn't be as much fun.

Braking hardware is similarly mundane on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, and we expect many owners will choose to make upgrades here. With the exception of dual-piston front calipers borrowed from the Outlander, this is the same ventilated front disc/solid rear disc setup found on other Lancers.

They Could Have Called It an Evo
With all the Evolution-grade hardware on the 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart, we doubt anyone would get angry if the company appended "Evo" to its name. More important, the Ralliart is a nicely resolved machine in its own right. It's not as polished as the Evo X, but you can have nearly as much fun with it.

The Ralliart is also more entertaining than just about any of its direct competitors. Even so, we suspect its impressive plate of technology could make it significantly more expensive than a comparably equipped WRX or Mazdaspeed 3. Given the $38K price tag on an Evo MR with the twin-clutch box, we wouldn't be surprised if the 2009 Lancer Ralliart ends up with a price tag near $30,000.