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Honda Fit Gets Outfitted With an Electric Battery System

by Carsurfer Admin on 2012/07/18 in Honda with Comments Off on Honda Fit Gets Outfitted With an Electric Battery System

Honda’s popular subcompact Fit now offers full vehicle electrification. For 2013, an electric vehicle model enters the Fit fleet, joining the standard gas-powered four-door hatchback. The all-new Fit EV uses no gas and has zero tailpipe emissions output, and is rated as the most efficient passenger car by the EPA.

Unlike some EVs, Honda used its proven Fit platform for this model. The differences between the two include the vehicle’s dashboard and overall weight, the latter accounting for a 20 kilowatt lithium-ion battery pack, a synchronous electric motors and related components.

Modern Interior

The dashboard is as striking as it is modernistic, featuring displays that are brightly lit and intuitive. Behind the steering wheel is a colorful three-gauge display, one that includes a three-mode drive system to give you the performance level that you desire. Choose Sport mode for optimum power, Econ mode for maximum efficiency or Normal mode to balance the two.

To the right of the instrument and positioned in the center stack is Honda’s satellite-linked navigation system with voice recognition and a rear view camera. This system is standard and employs concentric range circles to help you determine how far you can travel on a single charge. This system is also designed to help you find the nearest 240-volt charging station via a talk button located on the steering wheel.

Honda’s green credentials are further enhanced in the Fit as this model makes use of bio fabric seats. These seats are made from a sugarcane-based material, providing a comfortable and breathable seating surface front and back. The driver and front passenger are treated to heated bucket seats; the second row offers a 60/40 split bench for three people.

Electric Power

The front-wheel-drive Honda Fit EV is powered by a 123-horsepower electric motor with 189 foot-pounds of torque. This vehicle can drive up to 82 miles on a single charge and offers the equivalent of 118 mpg, the highest rating ever for a production car.

Charging time is in as little as three hours when utilizing a 240-volt charger. Simply pull up to the charging station, connect your Fit EV with the supplied cord and you’re ready to replenish your car. For quick, emergency charges the Fit EV comes equipped with an onboard 32-amp charger that gives you 17 percent recharger capacity in just 30 minutes. This is ideal in the event you go outside of your range and run low on electrical power. Fortunately, your car will warn you when it needs to be recharged with that information displayed on the instrument panel.

You can also check your Fit’s electric consumption remotely by way of your smartphone’s app. That app also allows you to activate the climate control system before you get into your car.

Model Dimensions

The Honda Fit EV sits on a 98.4-inch wheelbase and is 162.0 inches long by 62.2 inches wide and by 67.7 inches tall. This model weighs 3,252 pounds and offers 89.3 cubic feet of passenger volume. Standard cargo storage is 12.0 cubic feet, expandable to 49.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. Not all electric vehicles allow for the rear seat to be completely folded down as the battery pack obstructs seat utility. Honda provides an electric car with the greatest versatility possible.

Front head room measures 40.4 inches; there is 37.3 inches in the rear. Front leg room comes in at 41.3 inches up front and 35.2 inches in the rear. Front shoulder room is 52.7 inches; rear shoulder room measures 51.1 inches. Hip room for the front seat comes in at 51.5 inches and measures 45.0 inches in the back.

Comfort and Convenience

The Honda Fit EV is loaded with your favorite comfort and convenience features. This model comes equipped with automatic climate control, Honda’s telematics system, a voice-recognition navigation system, a rear view camera, Bluetooth connectivity and power accessories. Also, you get cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, a tilt and telescopic steering column, 10 beverage holders, storage compartments and pockets, map lights, a 12-volt power outlet, floor mats and a rear window defroster.

Its standard audio system features 6 speakers, 160 watts of power, an MP3 player, a radio data system, volume control, as USB audio interface and an auxiliary input jack.

Lease One

Introduced in summer 2012, the Honda Fit EV is available for lease only. Well-qualified consumers can get a Fit EV for $389 per month, putting $389 down and paying taxes and tags. This cost includes collision coverage, roadside assistance service and your maintenance costs, providing a transparent cost structure as you evaluate this capable electric vehicle.

Author Information
George Zeed lives in Grants Pass, Oregon and works for www.impactbattery.com. An avid outdoorsman and environmentalist, he writes about topics related to all kinds of recreational vehicles and accessories including the best battery chargers.

Ford Adds Explorer Sport to its Crossover Line

by Carsurfer Admin on 2012/03/30 in Ford with Comments Off on Ford Adds Explorer Sport to its Crossover Line

Newest Explorer edition is introduced for the 2013 model year.

Ford’s Explorer has been a popular model for the Ford Motor Company, reaching peak sales above 400,000 units annually in the 1990s as the sport utility vehicle craze took hold. Sales eventually dropped as consumers switched to more fuel efficient models, but the Ford Explorer has always been a good seller for this manufacturer.

In 2011, Ford updated its popular SUV, switching from a body on frame design to a unibody construction, a move that improved agility and gas mileage, but at the expense of off-road utility. For 2013, Ford resolves the off-road limitations of this model by introducing the Explorer Sport, a model equipped with full-time four-wheel-drive and a more powerful engine.

Powerful Engine

A 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 engine powers the 2013 Ford Explorer Sport, a top of the line model that goes on sale later this year. This engine employs twin turbocharger technology and brings in direct fuel injection to deliver more power in a smaller footprint. Ford estimates that this model will make at least 350 horsepower and deliver a near equivalent foot-pounds of torque.

A six-speed shiftable automatic transmission is standard, with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters enabling Explorer fans to enjoy a more engaged drive as they head down the highway. Ford estimates that the Explorer Sport will achieve 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway, numbers that are better than the competing Dodge Durango R/T, the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Land Rover’s Range Rover Sport.

The Ford Explorer Sport seats up to seven adults and sits on a 112.6-inch wheelbase. This model is 197.1 inches long, 90.2 inches wide and is 71.0 inches tall. The Explorer Sport offers 151.7 cubic feet of passenger volume and can tow up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Besides the EcoBoost engine offered in the Explorer Sport, a standard 3.5-liter V-6 is found elsewhere and a smaller 2.0-liter EcoBoost four is available with some models.

Improved Handling

Among the significant differences found in the Explorer Sport are its chassis as it has been specially reinforced, making this model stiffer and improving its handling. Also, a solid-mounted electric power-assisted steering rack is included, providing an improved feel and more responsiveness to drivers both around town and off-road. Larger brakes ensure that this vehicle comes to a certain stop and a new terrain management system helps drivers work their way through snow, mud, sand and up hills.

On the outside, the changes most notable with the Explorer Sport can be seen in its black grille. What isn’t as readily noticeable, but is still quite functional, is the opening in the lower fascia designed to allow for additional cooling. This model is equipped with unique, painted 20-inch wheels and offers blacked-out treatments to roof rails, side mirrors and light housings.

Cabin Amenities

Inside, the cabin features a black charcoal theme as evidence across the seating surfaces with cloth or leather materials offered. Unique steering wheel stitching, special door appliques and Explorer Sport badging can also be found.

Notably, the changes inside also bring in the highest level of amenities found across the Explorer line. These include a dual zone climate control system, a 10-way power driver’s seat with power recline and lumbar, 6-way power front passenger seat with recline and lumbar, heated front row seats, a rear view camera, SYNC with MyFord Touch driver connectivity and a 12-speaker Sony audio system with HD radio.

Popular Options

Available options for this model include active park assist, a blind spot information system, unique inflatable rear seat belts, power folding side mirrors, a 110-volt outlet, remote access with push button start, adjustable driver pedals with memory settings, a dual-panel moonroof, a power liftgate and a trailer towing package.

Ford has not announced pricing yet for this model built at its Chicago assembly plant. That information will be released shortly before the model arrives in Ford showrooms this year. Given that the Ford Explorer Limited retails from $37,855, a $40,000 price tag for the Explorer Sport seems likely.

Author Information

Matt Keegan writes for FordHood.com, a Ford enthusiast website. FordHood offers the latest product information including the Ford Explorer Sport and other upcoming models.

Photo: Courtesy of the Ford Motor Company.

SUV Elegance: 2013 LX 570

by Carsurfer Admin on 2012/02/28 in Lexus with Comments Off on SUV Elegance: 2013 LX 570
Lexus

The largest of all Lexus models is the LX 570, a three-row sport utility vehicle that seats eight. Introduced in 2008 and sold through 2011, the LX 570 returns for 2013 with many updates evident. Those changes include advancing Lexus’ new design language and offering a refreshed interior. Its stalwart V-8 engine returns, delivering optimum power to move this three-ton SUV with authority.

Exterior Embellishments

The Lexus LX 570 is a massive vehicle, just the sort of premium model prized by families that require maximum interior room and need a vehicle that offers ample storage possibilities as well as trailering capabilities. This vehicle features a 2+3+3 seating layout and can tow up to 7,000 pounds. Quite easily, this SUV has the ability to take a large family on vacation and pull a boat or a camper with ease.

Changes on the exterior include an all-new trapezoid grille, reflecting the design language of Lexus vehicles effective with the 2013 model year. That new look is meant to put some pizzazz in Lexus-styling, casting off the bland for a more grand look. Other changes evident with this model are HID headlamps, large chrome bezels for foglamps, wider bodyside moldings, turn signal indicators on the side mirrors and new 20-inch split five spoke wheels. Two paint finishes are added bringing the total to six.

Advanced Technologies

Inside, the LX 570’s bright and cavernous cabin receives dark chrome finish for center cluster and front side air-conditioning vents, a dark chrome highlight above the glovebox and optional parchment leather seats. That leathering extends to the door inserts, to the shift knob and to the steering wheel. Mahogany wood trim is new for 2013, providing a visually appealing look to a cabin replete with leather, chrome and digital accents.

Place yourself behind the steering wheel of this SUV and you’re treated to a 10-way adjustable power driver’s seat. This seat offers height adjustment and lumbar support, and is well-bolstered and supportive. The front passenger has an 8-way adjustable seat. The instrument panel feature a brightly lit four analog panel display that flanks a digital driver’s information center. The center stack offers an in-dash CD changer with an AM/FM radio, automatic sound levelizer, digital sound processing and an HD SiriusXM satellite radio receiver. Nine speakers are included.

A standard HDD navigation system offers Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity; Lexus Enform navigation with turn by turn instructions, and Lexus Insider voice command with NavTraffic, NavWeather, stocks and sports. The Lexus Enform software package allows you to search the Internet with Bing, order movie tickets, make restaurant reservations and receive product reviews. A zoned climate control system, 12-volt outlets and storage compartments round out the center stack and console display.

Cabin Amenities

As you would expect, the Lexus LX 570 offers numerous amenities and convenience features throughout its cabin. These include illuminated entry, bottle holders in all four doors, second and third row cup holders, power accessories, a middle row power outlet, a 120-volt power outlet behind the third row seat, door courtesy lights, a first-aid kit and a power tailgate.

Also available are heated and air-conditioned front seats, heated middle row seats, a luxury package that offers semi-aniline trim and a cool box, a DVD entertainment system, a 19-speaker Mark Levinson audio system and a rear backup camera.

Safety Features

Every LX 570 comes equipped with a host of safety features. New for 2013 is trailer sway assist, joining four-wheel antilock brakes, brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control and stability control with helping you keep your SUV firmly planted. Adaptive headlamps, daytime running lamps and a tire pressure monitoring system are standard.

Inside, this SUV offers front airbags, first and second row seat-mounted side airbags, driver and front passenger knee airbags, and a side curtain airbag system. Also available are park assist and a pre-collision warning system.

SUV Miscellany

The 2013 Lexus LX 570 will take you from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds. Its 5.7-liter 32-valve V-8 engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and offers 383 horsepower at 5,600 rpm and 403 foot-pounds of torque at 3,600 rpm. This Lexus offers a 24.6-gallon fuel tank and is EPA-rated at 12 mpg city, 18 mpg highway.

Author Information

Matt Keegan is a freelance writer who writes for The Auto Writer. Please visit this site for industry news including details about Lexus and other premium brands.

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A, Inc. (Lexus)

Intelligent Hybrid: 2013 Lexus GS 450h

by Carsurfer Admin on 2012/02/27 in Lexus with Comments Off on Intelligent Hybrid: 2013 Lexus GS 450h
Lexus

Lexus is a luxury brand that is in transition, and those changes are in response to two factors beyond its control: customer perceptions and geological forces. With the former, Lexus has responded by changing its design language from restrained to bold. With the latter, Lexus and parent Toyota are now well on the way to recovery from a series of earthquakes and a tsunami that undermined its ability to produce and ship cars. Evidence of these changes can be seen in the 2013 Lexus GS 450h sedan, the hybrid version of the GS and a car that may just convince you that Lexus is back and in a significant way.

New Design Language

The refinements Lexus has made to its design language will be evident beginning with each of its 2013 models. The Lexus LX570, a large sport utility vehicle, initiated the updates when it was introduced just ahead of the GS series in February 2012. These changes include an hourglass sport grille that is flanked by arrowhead-styled daytime running lights to provide a more aggressive face. Additional modifications over the first generation edition built from 2007 to 2011 include 9-spoke 17-inch chrome wheels, LED treatments on the tail lamps and updates to the wheel wells, bumper edges and windows.

Under the hood, the same 3.5-liter 24-valve gas engine that powered the first generation hybrid has returned. This engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission and produces 286 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. Torque is another of its strong suits too as this five-passenger sedan offers 254 foot-pounds at 4,600 rpm.

The GS 450h also derives power from its nickel-metal hydride (Ni-MH) battery system. The current iteration is lighter and more efficient, and allows this large sedan to get 29 mpg city, 34 mpg highway. Those numbers put the GS 450h at the top of the range among executive cars and places some serious distance between gas station stops. Indeed, when taking those long interstate trips, drivers will find that they’ll be able to go nearly 600 miles between fill ups. That is certainly welcome in these days of elevated gas prices. Performance is noteworthy too: this hybrid goes from 0 to 60 in just 5.6 seconds.

Sumptious Interior

Inside, Lexus luxury is evident everywhere. A padded instrument panel, stitched leather seating, wood trim and chrome highlights provide the look and feel you’d expect in this sedan. A 10-way power driver’s seat is plush and bolstered, offering height adjustment and lumbar support as well as heating and ventilation. Other special treatments in evidence include a bamboo and leather heated steering wheel, aluminum alloy scuff plates and ambient lighting.

All GS 450h models come equipped with an 8-inch touchscreen driver’s information center. An electronically-enhanced instrument panel, an LCD climate control display and remote touch interface are among the technological features offered. Its standard 5.1 surround sound audio system features 12 speakers, an automatic sound levelizer, voice recognition and text to speech SMS. You can also upgrade to a 17-speaker Mark Levinson package that includes distortion adjustment and DVD/audio capability.

By choosing its luxury package, the GS 450h offers an optimally appointed sedan that retails for under $70,000. That package includes the Mark Levinson audio package; semi-aniline leather; a contoured 18-way power driver seat; passenger seat memory; wood embellishments; rear air-conditioning and audio controls; and rear manual side sun shades.

Sedan Notables

Safety features include driver and front passenger knee airbags; front and front seat-mounted side airbags; and a side curtain airbag unit with rollover notification. This sedan comes with four-wheel anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control and stability control. Optional safety features include a blind spot monitor, a head up display, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, park assist, a night vision system and a pre-collision warning system.

The 2013 Lexus GS 450h dispenses with the notion that hybrid power and a weighty sedan are mutually exclusive. Weighing in at nearly 4,200 pounds, the GS 450h provides the security some drivers prefer when taking to the open road. It also delivers in fuel economy and luxury appointments, offering a level of all-around driving satisfaction that is still quite rare today.

Author Information

Matt Keegan is a freelance writer and owner of the online Auto Trends Magazine. Please visit his site for industry news including Lexus and other luxury brands.

Photos: Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A, Inc. (Lexus)

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