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Showing posts from July, 2010

Online Research Shows Sienna and TL Ads Work

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Check out this AutoTrader article that says vehicles like the 2011 Toyota Sienna and Acura TL are moving up on the list of considered new cars. The Ford Mustang is number one with AutoTrader users and the Sienna is now fifth.

Nissan Leaf Leads to More Electric Cars

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As the reality of the all electric Nissan Leaf draws nearer, expect to see a lot more all-electric vehicles, concepts, drawings and promises. One is the Audi e-tron, and all electric, high performance coupe that looks like a smaller version of the R8 - it's a real car but just not for US buyers. Recently, Audi entered the car in a 100+ mile rally . A high performance electric car may seem silly but Mercedes Benz says a battery powered SLS could be a reality and the Tesla Roadster is fairly quick without the help of a gasoline engine. BMW is also working on an all-electric car based on what the company learned from the Mini-e. The luxury hybrid Fisker Karma is also on the way and Tesla promises a four-door, all electric performance sedan. Also look for Mitsubishi's electric i-Mieve and of course the Chevrolet Volt is on its way.

Bye Bye PT Cruiser!

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Say goodbye to the Chrysler PT Cruiser, production ends this week. The car has been around since 2000. Housewives over 40, retirees, Victrola collectors and Dale Ernhardt t-shirt wearers will have to pick a different ride - Chevy HHR anyone? The Jeep Compass is just a crappy as the PT Cruiser sot that's one you can consider too. Actually, the PT Cruiser is nicer than the Compass. Truth is, the PT Cruiser was never a super star - it's been primarily a value proposition. At one point, you could lease one for $99 per month. FIAT, Chrysler's new owners, has a lot experience with small, affordable cars that are fun so maybe they can come up with non-retro replacement for the PT. MSN Autos has a much more in depth article on the PT Cruiser and it's long, slow demise. Soon, we'll be seeing fewer and fewer of those PT Cruisers with the wood paneling - now what will we make fun of? But we didn't always look at the retro PT with such contempt, according to the Detroit New...

2010 Toyota Matrix Review - Mid Trim Matrix S $22,000

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The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a lot like the 2009 Toyota Matrix. That's just as well since the Matrix was redesigned in 2009. Due to increased concerns about safety, the 2010 version of the Matrix does get stability and traction control added to the standard features list. The price also jumps up about $250. There's a lot to like about the Matrix, it's basically a Corolla wagon but with an extra dose of attitude. The mid-level Toyota Matrix S is likely the best seller as it combines value and desirable features. The standard engine is a 1.8 liter inline four cylinder but the S model comes with the more powerful 2.4 liter engine (158 hp). An eight speaker stereo with satellite radio, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, power windows and keyless entry are all standard. Add a few extras like $880 alloy wheels, sport package (front and rear spoilers) and carpeted floor mats and cargo mat for an extra $200 and the price is just a hair over $22,000, base price is $19,650. The one fe...

Nissan Leaf Ad - Truly Interactive for the iPod

Here's just a hint at how Nissan is incorporating mobile and smartphone tech into the advertising and function of the new electric Leaf. The Nissan Leaf will be on sale soon and will be the first mass produced, all electric car.