All posts in Auto Manufacturers

2014: Best Family Cars with the Newest Safety Features

Finding a family vehicle that can fit the needs of every occupant, should also take safety into consideration. Several safety technology features are available in vehicles today, and the following represent some of the greatest advancements for the 2014 lineup of vehicles.

2014 Honda Odyssey

The 2014 Honda Odyssey van boasts exceptional cargo room for large road trips and growing families. It also features one of the highest safety ratings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Five stars of overall rating can be tied with the body structure and traction control system. Honda uses a structure known as the ACE (Advanced Compatibility Engineering) structure that distributes energy from a crash throughout the car to reduce stress in one crumple zone. 

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Passengers will also be alerted and prepared for any collision. The Forward Collision Warning System uses a small camera to detect vehicles in front and activates a visual alert. The vehicle also engages in a dual-stage airbag system that inflates at different rates depending on the impact of the collision.

2014 Subaru Outback

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The Subaru Outback is a sporty and adventurous vehicle with plenty of safety features for growing families. The 2014 model features electronic stability control features that engage preemptively in rough terrain with the Eyesight Camera. Airbags are placed throughout the vehicle in the case of a potential rollover event.

2014 Volvo S80

Volvo has a long history of safety milestones, and the S80 is no exception. This large sedan is the perfect car for good fuel economy and road safety in one package. Enhanced crash protection include additional overhead and side impact airbags to prevent injury in the event of a rollover accident. 

The car also features a stability control system that can sense when the vehicle is undergoing stress, and reduces engine power to prevent a collision. Occupants will also rest assured when airbags go off. The anti-whiplash head restraints cradles the neck to prevent injury in a typical front collision incident.

2014 Mazda CX-5

The new Mazda CX-5 is a crossover vehicle with plenty of room and safety control for smart driving. According to Yearwood & Company Surrey lawyers, the vehicle supports additional smart braking procedures that engage in rough city traffic. Emergency notification will also automatically dial 911 when necessary in the touring models. A unique feature of this vehicle is the foldaway brake pedal that folds away on impact to protect the brakes from damage.

Whether your family is looking for off-road adventure, or a fuel-saving vehicle with stylish flair, there is a vehicle with plenty of safety features available. Consider test driving one of these vehicles today and find out if it’s a good fit for your family.

Images courtesy: Volvo | Honda | Subaru

Sneak Peek: A Look at the 2015 Auto Lineup and Exciting Releases

Car enthusiasts from around the globe are eagerly anticipating the upcoming model year. From high-performance sports cars to luxurious family sedans, there are plenty of exciting vehicles scheduled to hit the market. Even if you don’t plan to buy a brand new car as soon as 2015 hits, it is exciting to see the new models coming up, and how they will change the car industry. Keep reading to get a sneak peek of some of the most noteworthy vehicles that will be released during the 2015 model year.

Ford Mustang

In the muscle car world, the Ford Mustang has always remained one of the most popular rides. Not only does the 2015 Mustang boast a totally new design, but it also offers a four-cylinder engine for the first time in over 20 years. The innovative Ecoboost engine is expected to increase the Mustang’s fuel efficiency to over 30 mpg on the highway. Under the hood of the high-powered GT model remains the legendary 5.0-liter, V-8 engine. This iconic muscle car is scheduled to hit dealerships in the winter.

Lexus RC

The 2015 Lexus RC promises to be one of the most exciting sport coupes in the world. While most drivers will be more than happy with the performance of the base version, the racy RC F model delivers a monstrous 467 horsepower. An adaptive suspension enables the RC coupe to handle like a legitimate race car on the road. The car also offers some of the most innovative safety features on the market including a pre-collision warning system and dynamic radar cruise control. This awe-inspiring vehicle is expected to hit local showrooms in the fall.

BMW i8

The age of eco-friendly sports cars has finally arrived. The 2015 BMW i8 implements the use of several new technologies. Unlike a traditional BMW sports sedan, the i8 has been constructed using high-tech carbon fiber. The i8 also features one of the most technologically advanced engines in the automotive industry. The ingenious hybrid engine is able to produce whopping 357 horsepower. Although the official fuel economy numbers have yet to be released, some test drivers have reported an average fuel efficiency of over 40 mpg. A limited number of i8 sports cars have already been sent to select dealerships.

Jeep Renegade

The Jeep Renegade helps to fill a major void on the car market. The subcompact SUV has been engineered to provide a very lively driving experience without compromising fuel economy. The SUV’s Selec-Terrain drive-mode system also makes it a very capable off-road driving machine. Officials anticipate the Renegade to make its debut in the spring of 2015.

These four vehicles exemplify the changing trends in the car market—developers are now combining the latest technology, with good fuel economy, and adding a family-friendly twist in order to appeal to the masses. This will definitely help to revolutionize the entire car market, especially as technology continues to advance at a rapid pace. As you can see, there is plenty to look forward to in 2015 with a lineup that isn’t likely to disappoint. The information for this article was provided by the professionals at Speedy Apollo Auto Service Centres who specialize in break repair in Calgary.

Battle of the Compact Cars: Which Mighty Mini Reigns Supreme

Different families will look for various features when they shop for a new compact car. However, some elements are consistent for almost every vehicle in the category. This size car appeals to many young people, those living in urban areas, and those on a budget. The most important features in this class include fuel efficiency to keep costs down, low emissions to meet urban regulations, and size to account for small streets and difficult parking conditions.

Top Choices

One of the leading choices for this model year is the Mazda 3. The company has integrated the SkyActiv engine package which results in a responsive and fun-to-drive vehicle with outstanding gas mileage. Several trim packages are available, but most of them have the same 2.0 Liter four-cylinder engine that cranks a zippy 155 horsepower. The engine is tuned to get about 30 miles per gallon in the city and 40 on the highway. Considering the car costs a thousand dollars less than its competitors, it is an excellent value.

Alternative Options

The Honda Civic continues the company’s tradition of well-built, highly affordable cars. One of the first things drivers will notice is how smooth the ride is. At the cost of a smaller 1.8 L engine that turns 143 hp, the list of options in the vehicle is impressive. It also is a little less efficient than the Mazda 3, getting only 28 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway, which further reinforces the value of the class-leading car. Despite the loss in fuel efficiency, the 2014 Civic remains a financially viable option for sedans of its class, starting at a reasonable $18,390. Its advanced safety features have attracted the attention of those looking for a small family car and the Civic regularly scores well on safety ratings.

The Driver’s Choice

The Ford Focus is one of the more powerful cars in the category, with 160 horsepower. It gets its power from a 2.0 L motor that trades some fuel mileage for extra horses. Many drivers will be happy with the 26 city and 36 highway miles per gallon the car gets, considering the extra power it has available. An interesting option available on the ST, according to a Langley truck parts specialist, is a turbocharger that boosts power to a breath-taking 252 hp. The Focus demonstrates quite an impressive amount of power, for a five-door hatchback. Though reports of its unreliability are common, the Focus remains a popular choice, offering a little bit of everything for drivers who want speed and space in their compact car.

The Final Score

The best value in the current market may very well be the Mazda 3. It consistently meets expectations, and its price is simply too good to pass up. The Civic continues to get attention from those who want to have all the latest technology options in their car. Drivers who enjoy their time behind the wheel will be glad to invest in any of the above vehicles, depending on their individual needs and preferences.

Informational Credit to 99 Truck Parts & Industrial Equipment Ltd.

Car Shopping Guide: Best Models to Buy New

Purchasing a new car is a major financial investment for most people. Ideally, you should seek to buy a vehicle that offers long-term value and driving satisfaction. Unfortunately, all vehicles are not engineered with the same level of quality. Here are a few of the best models that are best to buy new.

2014 Honda Civic Si

The Honda Civic Si is arguably the most reliable performance car on the market. The car’s sporty driving dynamics make it a good choice for the drivers who crave excitement on their daily commute. Prospective buyers can expect the Civic Si to deliver great fuel economy, and to maintain an excellent resell value. The 2.4-liter, four-cylinder engine is known to last for at least 300,000 miles without needing an overhaul. The best part is that the Civic Si still delivers over 30 miles-per-gallon on the highway.

2014 GMC Sierra 1500

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The 2014 GMC Sierra 1500 is one of the best pickups trucks for the money. Although there is a V-8 engine offered, the six-cylinder engine delivers the best balance of power and fuel economy. Unlike some of the other high-tech engines on the market, the Sierra’s 4.3-liter engine has a very simple design. This means that most backyard mechanics will find the engine to be very easy to maintain. Although the towing capacity is rated at a hefty 7,200 pounds, the truck still has a frugal fuel economy rating of 24 mpg on the highway.

Nissan Altima

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Engineered with a well-built chassis and a reliable engine, the Altima will last for many years to come. Owner surveys reveal that the Altima has very few problem areas even after 100,000 miles. While the V6 version delivers a beefy 270 horsepower, most people will find the 182-horsepower base engine to be just as entertaining. With 45 inches of legroom in the front, even drivers who are well over six-feet tall will fit comfortably.

2014 Subaru Crosstrek

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Very few all-wheel drive SUVs can match the Crosstrek’s 33 mpg highway fuel economy rating. While the Crosstrek may appear small on the outside, there is an abundance of interior room for the family. While the Crosstrek is not capable of towing heavy loads, it is still rugged enough to take on an off-road trail from time to time.

All four of these vehicles are excellent choices for the driver who is seeking a long-term commitment. Every owner can expect great fuel efficiency, excellent resell value, and a satisfying driving experience.

“Brooke Chaplan is a freelance writer and recent college graduate. She lives and works out of her home in Los Lunas, New Mexico. She used www.aircompressorla.com/services/ as a resource for this article. Contact her via Twitter @BrookeChaplan.”

Volkswagen, Jeep Mull Pickup Truck Options

After falling to historically low numbers during the last recession, the pickup truck market has rebounded. Ford, General Motors, Chrysler, Toyota, Nissan and Honda each participate in this segment, serving up a variety of vehicles to meet consumer demand.

While Chrysler serves up Ram trucks, its Jeep division hasn’t had a model in decades. Volkswagen is a one-time player too, but it also lacks a model. Both manufacturers are weighing their options, considering what choices they have to get back in the market.

The following are among the ideas that may make this possible.

Jeep Pickup Truck

Jeep built the J10 pickup truck from 1971 to 1988. When it came to the end of its product cycle, Jeep was no longer part of American Motors, but firmly in Chrysler’s camp. And with Chrysler heavily vested in developing a new truck for Dodge, Jeep was left without a model of its own.

The Jeep Gladiator concept was developed in 2005 in a bid to gauge customer interest. The interest was there, but the DaimlerChrysler marriage was in trouble and headed for divorce. A healthier company probably would have developed this vehicle, but the timing just wasn’t right for Chrysler.

Jeep appears likely to get a pickup truck and a model based on the current Wrangler. At a special automotive event in Utah in 2012, Jeep showcased the J-12, itself based on a modified Wrangler body. It has a traditional look, a midsize truck concept that find niche customers if it is ever built. A 3.2-liter V-6 gasoline engine would be a natural fit as would the Italian-supplied 3.0-liter turbo diesel found in other Chrysler products.

Volkswagen Pickup Truck

Have you ever heard of the Volkswagen Amarok? Only if you are diehard VW fan. That pickup truck is of unibody construction and has been sold in dozens of markets beginning in 2010, but it isn’t available in North America. Volkswagen would love to regain the toehold it once enjoyed with its 1980s-era pickup truck based on the Golf/Rabbit platform, but it hasn’t made a commitment yet.

The Volkswagen Amarok would complete against other midsize trucks including the Chevrolet Colorado, Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, and the Honda Ridgeline. Unfortunately, the Amarok may be too small to make much of a difference. It is powered by gas and diesel engines displacing at just 2.0 liters, which are quite small for today’s trucks.

What Volkswagen may do is develop a pickup truck exclusive to the North American market. That would require a significant investment in resources, at least $1 billion, with no guarantee of a sure return. One way to accomplish this goal without busting the bank is to share product development with another manufacturer. And with Hyundai and Kia both desiring to enter the market, a joint-development could be in the works with its Korean competitors.

Looking Ahead

Both Jeep and Volkswagen might jump back in the market if the newly reintroduced Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon succeed. Some manufacturers have given up on the small truck segment, but Toyota and Nissan haven’t. With GM now the third manufacturer battling it out, if sales rise across the board, then additional players may commit.


Erin is a professional blogger that provides tips and information on franchise opportunities and investments. He writes for Franchise Expo, the place to find the best franchise opportunities available.


Image source: wikipedia