Thursday, June 30, 2011

Conan O'Brien Can't Stop

Spoiler alert-o-meter: A few spoilers ahead.

After Conan O’Brien quit/was fired from the Tonight Show in 2010, he was one late-night talk show host with a chip on his shoulder. Due to the crappy way NBC and Jay Leno handled the debacle, O’Brien was left feeling burned and angry. Conan O'Brien Can’t Stop chronicles the preparation and tour O’Brien launched in reaction to being legally forbidden to appear on TV or the Internet for six months after leaving the Tonight Show.

During Conan’s last Tonight Show appearance he played his swan song on guitar backed by a full, celebrity band. Here, his tour, dubbed the The Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television Tour, includes a full band consisting of many members of his erstwhile Tonight Show band and two backup singers/dancers. He gathers around him some of the same writers, producers, and assistants he employed at his old show. He also brings along his longtime sidekick, Andy Richter, who throughout is familiar and welcome face.

Scratch the surface of most of the funniest comics and you’ll find a lethal mixture equal parts anger, shame, guilt, bitterness, bipolar disorder, and other dysfunctions. So it’s no surprise that Conan’s performance on tour is hilarious and scathing. He sings mostly real songs with mock lyrics. He customizes On the Road Again to suit his current situation.

In one faux blues song where he discusses his roots, he mentions how he grew up in Brookline Massachusetts. Where, in the wealthy upper class suburb of Boston, his family was a member of the less fortunate upper middle class. His mother was a lawyer and his father was a doctor. It’s a wonderful pastiche of music and honesty that fuels much of the performance.

Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop is only playing in one theater in the Boston area, Coolidge Corner Theater, which happens to be in Brookline, Massachusetts. The crowd in the very small theater gave a hoot when he referenced Brookline and lyrics like, “My mother, she shopped at Whole Foods.” There were two ladies of a certain age sitting in front of us, and I imagined they could be his mother and aunt. Or maybe neighbors.

Much of the movie consists of backstage tour footage mixed with his live performance. The film does a surprisingly good job of building momentum and keeping you interested throughout. There is no inherent conflict in the story, no ugly secret that needs to be revealed, no end-of-journey plot twist. The drama comes from watching the nights on the tour tick away.

Opening night – everybody thought it went well, but thought it could have gone better. L.A. – a pre-show gathering turns into a full-blown Hollywood party after which O’Brien is wiped out as much as if he done his full performance. By the time Jim Carrey, Jon Hamm, Tina Fey, and other celebs swing by after the performance, you feel Conan’s exhaustion and frustration at being performing monkey. The most disturbing moments come at the expense of 30 Rock actor Jack McBrayer, who (whether staged or not) is forced to endure sarcastic barb after barb from Conan.

Early on O’Brien claims to be one of the least entitled celebrities, yet you can’t help not feeling too sorry for a rich celebrity whom millions of fans adore. Don’t get me wrong, touring is a hard business (I couldn’t do it). And he obviously got almost no downtime on the tour bus, before or after performances. Even his days off were full of obligations, such as performing in a talent show at his Harvard class reunion. Still, the tour was only a couple months long and it wasn’t just for him to let off steam, but to keep himself fresh and in the public eye so that when he did come back to TV, he would still have an adoring audience.

The movie becomes one of the best chronicles of life on the road I’ve ever seen. O’Brien could be a rock star the way his fans wait for him outside his tour bus and vie for an autograph before the show. Indeed, he jams with Jack White for a small but adoring crowd at White's recording studio in Nashville. At one point O’Brien plays the Bonnaroo Music Festival, where he not only performs his act he is also booked to introduce many of the major acts.

Near the end of the tour he is shown scrambling in a huff off the bus during an unscheduled pit stop at a New England service area. He then strikes up a casual conversation with a mini-van load of women heading to Martha’s Vineyard. Here he remains Conan O’Brien, the showman who can’t stop himself from being “Conan O’Brien.” But when they tell him he got a raw deal you realize that’s all he really wants from this tour, for his audience to understand and empathize with his anger. When they ask if they can pray for him, he is surprised but genuinely touched by the offer, and joins them as they bow their heads and wish him a good tour. This shows both Conan O’Briens, the showman and father, husband, and nice guy who just wants to do a good job. And one reason Conan O’Brien Can’t Stop.

Note: During the tour he signed with TBS to do a new talk show which debuted on November 8, 2010.



Stats:

Theater location: Coolidge Corner Theater, Brookline, MA, Sunday, June 26th, 2:40 pm. Price: 9.75. Viewed with Liz! Snack: RJ's Raspberry Licorice Log, Diet Coke with Lime.
Coolidge Corner Theater
  
Coming Attraction:

The Arbor. It's a documentary. But there is no indication of the story. It looks kind of scary. But who knows?

Short Films:

Charlie Coal. Film by a Emerson film student Olivia Briley, about a guy named Charlie who has no trouble falling in love, but no sooner is he with a girl than he finds out she's not for him. Either she's too fast and runs away, too jealous, too depressed, or too sick. Will Charlie find color-coordinated true love?

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK Version

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK Version in black color


2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee UK Version Front


Almost two decades ago, Jeep invented the premium SUV (sport-utility vehicle) segment with the introduction of the Jeep Grand Cherokee. More than 4 million worldwide sales later, Jeep has comprehensively honed this winning formula and is now delivering the ultimate combination of Jeep 4x4 off-road capability and on-road refinement with the all-new 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee.



New Jeep Grand Cherokee has been designed on a new platform to deliver premium on-road performance while maintaining the Jeep brand's legendary four-wheel drive, torque-on-demand two-speed transfer case for extraordinary off-road capability and durability.



The new vehicle also offers significantly lowered emissions and improved fuel economy (up to 39 mpg) with its new turbocharged 3-litre V6 CRD engine, together with a world-class interior providing luxury, comfort and enhanced safety. Despite its rugged, trail-tested off-road capabilities, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee is a sophisticated, luxury SUV that can easily be driven on an everyday basis by anyone.



"With the all-new 2011 Grand Cherokee, Jeep has created the benchmark, premium SUV," says Mike Manley, President and Chief Executive Officer — Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. "Advanced features such as our new Quadra-Lift air suspension and Selec-Terrain traction control systems take the new Grand Cherokee to the next level of 4x4 capability. The new generation of the iconic Jeep Grand Cherokee delivers the perfect blend of on-road refinement, superb craftsmanship, world-class design, improved fuel economy, innovative features and legendary, real-world capability."In the UK, new Jeep Grand Cherokee is available in two versions, Limited and Overland, both of which are powered by an all-new 237bhp 3-litre V6 turbodiesel.



Exterior Design and Dimensions



The all-new Grand Cherokee features a muscular and athletic new look with a high waist line and a steeply raked windscreen. A low drag coefficient illustrates the efficient aerodynamic shape of the vehicle.



The contemporary design language is nevertheless unmistakably Jeep, and is instantly recognisable thanks to the classic trapezoidal wheel arches together with the familiar Jeep seven-slot grille.



In terms of dimensions, although the car is approximately 7cm wider and 7cm longer than the model it replaces, the wheelbase has been stretched by over 13cm to give extra boot space, and more specifically, extra rear leg-room.



With regard to the cargo area, new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers up to 782 litres of space with all the seats in place - 11% more than the previous model; and the tailgate is power operated on the Overland version. Notwithstanding the amount of luggage space available, a full size spare wheel is carried.



The new Jeep also features short front and rear overhangs for much improved approach, departure and breakover angles and consequent superior off-road capability. The front spoiler is removable for when the terrain gets really tough, giving an extra four degrees of approach angle.



Interior Design



A world-class interior has been achieved thanks to fine materials and elegant appointments, while maintaining a focused attention to detail with high quality interior fit and finish throughout.



Premium materials such as real wood, leather, chrome accents, LED lighting, and premium seating deliver a strong impression of refinement and luxury - expressive design, quality of materials; the precise fit of all panels… these elements also contribute to enhanced noise isolation.



New, soft-touch materials are used at key 'touch points' throughout; including doors, consoles and armrests.



The quality of the seat upholstery is another important feature of the world-class interior. Both front seats are heated and ventilated with eight-way power assistance and four-way lumbar adjustment, with a memory system on the driver's side. In fact, the front seats feature an all-new structure with enhanced bolster contours for improved comfort. The moulded shape of the upper seat shoulder area adds to the look and feel of the seating, while the 12-degrees reclining rear seats, (60/40 split folding), together with the longer platform, enhance comfort for rear passengers who have over 100mm of additional rear legroom.



Interior Equipment



Alpine Premium Sound System



The standard equipment Alpine Premium Audio System creates a full, realistic sound experience using a high-powered 12-channel, 506-watt amplifier powering nine speakers and a subwoofer. Optimally placed throughout Jeep Grand Cherokee's cabin, this surround-sound speaker system delivers an unparalleled aural experience. This premium audio system allows everyone onboard to hear music precisely as the artist intended it.



Media Centre



The Media Centre features an AM/FM radio, CD/DVD player, satellite navigation system (standard on Overland) that's controlled via a 6.5-inch touch-screen, and a 30GB hard drive. Owners can store up to 6700 tracks on the hard drive and upload music and photos through the USB port or from a CD/DVD. The system includes a single-disc CD player, and can also play DVDs when the vehicle is stationary and the transmission is in Park. Uconnect Bluetooth® with voice commands means that the sound system, sat nav and mobile phones can be operated hands-free.



iPod Interface



With the iPod Control, most iPod-compatible devices can be connected directly to the vehicle's audio system using the iPod control cable. The iPod can then be operated through the Media Centre sound system or via the steering wheel-mounted controls. While connected, the system even charges the iPod.



Keyless Enter-N-Go



As long as the vehicle's ignition keys are somewhere on the driver's person (maybe in a pocket or a bag) the vehicle picks up signals from the transponder and unlocks it, when the driver touches the door handle. It also activates the push-button starter: the driver just presses the brake pedal and pushes the button to start.



The vehicle's equipment can also be activated without starting the engine. Without a foot on the brake, the driver pushes the button once; pushes twice to turn on the heating/air conditioning and instrumentation; or three times to turn it off again.



CommandView® panoramic sunroof (standard on Overland)



The front roof panel opens rearward, providing additional light and fresh air to front seat passengers. This front glass panel features an express one-touch open and close operation. The rear glass panel, which is fixed, provides extra light and visibility for rear seat passengers. A standard one-touch power sun-shade may be extended to cover the tinted glass panels when closed.



Platform



The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee is the very first vehicle in the market to be built on this brand new platform. The structure was co-developed with Mercedes-Benz and will be used in next generation Mercedes vehicles. With an increase of 146% in overall torsional stiffness, it is now much stronger and more durable than before. As a result, noise, vibration and harshness levels have been drastically improved, giving much better on-road and off-road ride quality. The new platform engineering brings improvements in the following key areas:



Manoeuvrability

Overall agility

Cornering ability

Steering precision

The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee tips the scale at 2,272kg, which is 38kg less than the outgoing model and represents a considerable achievement when the increase in dimensions is taken into account.



Outstanding touring attributes are another Jeep Grand Cherokee forte. The maximum towing capacity with a braked trailer is a class-topping 3,500kg, which includes an anti-sway damping system featuring a neutral position for flat towing.



Legendary 4x4 Capability



The all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee offers the new Quadra-Lift air suspension system, (standard equipment on Overland versions). Quadra-Lift air suspension system features five height settings for optimum ride performance:



Normal Ride Height (NRH): 8.1 inches of clearance offers improved fuel economy and improved aerodynamics during on-road driving

Off-road 1: Lifts the vehicle an additional 1.3 inches for added height in clearing obstacles (9.4 inches)

Off-road 2: Delivers legendary Jeep off-road capability and provides an additional 2.6 inches of height for 10.7 inches of ground clearance

Park Mode: Lowers the vehicle 1.5 inches from NRH for easy entry/exit and roof rack loading. NRH and Park mode are driver-selectable, giving the driver control over vehicle ride height

Aero Mode: Lowers the vehicle 0.6 inches from NRH. Aero mode is controlled by vehicle speed and adjusts for optimal performance and fuel economy

Quadra-Lift adds up to 4.1 inches of lift span that is supported by four-corner air springs that provide a cushioned, premium ride. It operates automatically, or may be controlled manually via console controls. Quadra-Lift enhances the ride quality and takes the Jeep Grand Cherokee another leap forward. It's a first-class closed system with a stored air reservoir for a faster response and no lift-time deterioration.



Driver benefits are numerous, and include:



Ease of entry/exit for passengers

Easier cargo loading and unloading

Improved off-road capability by increasing ground clearance, approach, departure and breakover angles

Improved on-road ride comfort

Improved fuel economy at motorway speeds - automatically lowering vehicle height to reduce aerodynamic drag

In addition to the Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the all-new Selec-Terrain traction control system (standard equipment on both Limited and Overland), lets customers choose the appropriate off-road setting for the optimum experience on all terrains. This feature electronically coordinates up to 12 different powertrain, braking and suspension systems, including throttle control, transmission shift, transfer case, traction control and electronic stability control (ESC).



Selec-Terrain, coupled with the all-new Quadra-Lift air suspension system, offers drivers an adjustable suspension span that delivers world-class capability. The system's control dial allows the driver to choose from five driving conditions in order to achieve the best all-terrain driving experience.



Sand/Mud: Traction control and Quadra-Lift operate with sensitive response to wheel spin, and torque is tuned for optimal performance

Sport: Provides enhanced on-road fun-to-drive capability

Auto: Automatically adapts to any on- or off-road situation

Snow: Vehicle traction adjusts for ultimate performance over snow-covered roads

Rock: Quadra-Lift air suspension system raises to maximum height (10.7 inches) and the transfer case, differentials, and throttle coordinate to provide low-speed control

With the front air dam removed, and the available Quadra-Lift air suspension system, the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee features a 34.3-degree approach angle, (compared to 32.3 on previous model), a 29.3-degree departure angle (compared to 27.5 on previous model) and 23.1-degree breakover angle (compared to 20.4 on previous model).



The all-new front and rear independent suspension features isolated front and rear suspension cradles. Variable-rate rear springs deliver improved on-road handling and comfort that complement the vehicle's off-road capability. The new multilink rear suspension features lower control arms and camber/tension links that individually control cornering, bump and braking forces. This is regarded as the optimum set-up for ride comfort and handling stability. The compact design of the system also allows the spare tyre to be stored inside the vehicle as opposed to underneath. Anti-roll bars are features on both axles.



Go Anywhere 4x4 Systems



The 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee employs a 4x4 system called Quadra-Trac II® which features a two-speed transfer box with low ratio gears and an electronically controlled clutch that allows variable torque distribution.



Quadra-Trac II's two-speed transfer case uses input from a variety of sensors in order to determine tyre slip at the earliest possible moment and take corrective action. The system uses Throttle Anticipate to sense quick movement in the throttle from a stop and maximises traction before slippage occurs. When tyre slippage is detected, as much as 100 percent of available torque is instantly routed to the axle with the most traction. Selec-Terrain is standard with Quadra-Trac II.



The drivetrain is further enhanced with sophisticated stability, hill assist and hill descent control systems featuring Brake Traction Control Systems on both axles (BTCS). BTCS uses the brakes to act on any wheel that is slipping, and allows additional torque transfer to those wheels with traction.



In addition, Hill Descent Control allows smooth and controlled descent on rough or slippery terrain without the driver having to touch the brake pedal. It applies the brakes to each wheel individually to slow the vehicle down and maintain driver control on steep slopes.



Meanwhile Hill Start Assist helps drivers make a hill start by keeping the brakes on for a short period of time after a driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal. If the throttle is applied when the driver's foot is removed from the brake pedal, the brakes are released.



Engine



Jeep first showed the Euro 5-compliant V6 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine, available in the Jeep Grand Cherokee for the UK and Europe, at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show. The new CRD engine is more powerful, more fuel efficient and produces lower emissions than its predecessor.



Built by VM Motori and developed together with Fiat Powertrain Technologies, this new engine produces maximum horsepower of 177 kW (237bhp) at 4,000 rpm and torque of 550 Nm (406 lb-ft) at 1,800-2,800 rpm. This translates to 10 per cent more power and eight per cent more torque than the engine it replaces.



Even with its improved performance, fuel economy for the new 3.0-litre turbo diesel engine is 34.0 mpg (8.3 L/100km) on the combined cycle, an improvement of 19 per cent over the previous diesel engine. CO2 emissions (combined cycle) are also reduced by 20 per cent, now at 218 g/km.



From a retail perspective the improvement in CO2 emissions represents a saving of £1,220 in current VED taxation over a five year period compared with the outgoing model.



The V6 turbodiesel engine is fitted with new-generation, 1,800-bar injectors along with new MultiJet II technology, developed and patented by Fiat Powertrain, which made its debut in 2009 on the 1.3-litre diesel engine in the Fiat Punto Evo.



Engine Block Structure



The new engine features a compressed graphite iron, 60-degree block with aluminium cylinder heads and a two-piece structural aluminium oil pan. Bore is 83 mm (3.27 in) and stroke is 92 mm (3.62 in) for a total displacement of 2987 cc (182 in3). Bore spacing is 96 mm (3.78 in).



The engine is compact and lightweight, with overall dimensions of 695 mm (27.36 in) in length, 729 mm (28.7 in) in width and 697.5 mm (27.46 in) in height. Weight of the new engine, including ancillaries, is 230 kg (507 lbs).



The engine block features a notably stiffened crankcase construction, including a bedplate that provides a rigid and stiff carrier for the crankshaft. This in turn helps reduce overall noise from the lower reciprocating assembly and contributes to significant improvements in lowering overall noise, vibration and harshness.



Adding to the structural rigidity of the block, the two-piece aluminium oil pan has been designed to provide strength and contribute to the quietness of the engine. The lower pan has been reinforced for off-road use. Crankcase capacity is 7.7 litres.



Cylinder heads are constructed of aluminium and feature a chain-driven, dual overhead-camshaft design with four valves per cylinder. Intake valves measure 28 mm (1.1 in), and exhaust valves are 24.5 mm (0.96 in) in diameter. Combustion-chamber volume is 24.68 cm3 (1.51 in3).



A forged-steel crankshaft is supported by four main bearing journals fitted with four-bolt main bearing caps incorporated into the bedplate. Externally balanced, the crankshaft measures 442.2 mm (17.41 in), reducing the overall packaging requirements of the engine. Connecting rods, with an overall length of 162.9 mm (6.41 in), are constructed in cast iron.



Lightweight, cast-aluminium pistons are designed to provide minimal friction. The compression ratio of the new diesel engine is now 16.5:1, reduced from 18.1:1 on the previous model, contributing to cleaner combustion and providing more power.



All main bearings are a lead-free design for reduced environmental impact during construction and later recycling of the engine.



Engine Performance Features



The induction system includes swirl control to optimise combustion. Fitted between the intake system and the combustion chamber, swirl control effectively provides an ideal air/fuel mixture at all engine speeds.



Precise fuel delivery is through a 1,800-bar common-rail fuel injection system. Thanks to the new MultiJet II technology, which makes use of a special balanced solenoid valve, the new injector is capable of making up to eight injections per cycle with the possibility of managing the two main injections in a single modular profile (IRS - Injection Rate Shaping). This guarantees a reduction in consumption and polluting emissions of approximately 2% compared to a traditional injector and ensures a drastic reduction in noise levels.



The new 3.0-litre diesel engine utilises a single Garrett VGT 2056 turbocharger with variable turbine geometry. Compact and lightweight, the turbocharger provides near-instant response and includes an air-to-air intercooler.



Fuel Economy and Emissions



Fuel economy for the Jeep Grand Cherokee with the 3.0-litre turbodiesel engine is rated at 27.4 mpg on the urban cycle and 39.2 mpg on the extra-urban cycle. For the combined cycle, the fuel economy is rated at 34.0 mpg. At motorway cruising speeds, 700 miles can easily be achieved on a single tank of fuel. The engine is designed to run on EN590 ultra-low-sulphur diesel fuel.



For this power unit, cast-iron exhaust manifolds are utilised. Additional emissions controls include a close-coupled diesel oxidation catalyst and standard diesel particulate filter. Euro 5 emissions are met through an exhaust-gas recirculation (EGR) system that includes an EGR valve with DC motor and a high-performance EGR cooler with bypass valve.



Combined cycle CO2 emissions are now 218 g/km. Not only is the engine more frugal and environmentally-friendly, but it also delivers outstanding performance, providing the new Jeep Grand Cherokee with a 0-62mph time of 8.2 seconds and a top speed of 126mph.



Safety and Security



Thanks to the immensely stiff new platform featuring advanced Multi-Stage front airbags and side curtain airbags as well as supplementary side airbags, the new Jeep Grand Cherokee provides unprecedented levels of safety for all passengers.



All of the following equipment comes as standard on both trim levels:



Sentry Key® Theft Deterrent System

Thatcham Category 1 Alarm and Immobiliser

Active head restraints

Advanced Multi-Stage front airbags

Side curtain airbags

Supplementary side airbags

Anti-lock 4-wheel disc brakes

Centre rear 3-point seat belt

Child seat upper tether anchorages

Electronic Stability Control

Enhanced Accident Response System

Traction Control

Front seat mounted side airbags

Laminated front door glass

Power locks

Rear fog lamps

Anti-sway damping system

The top-of-the-range Overland version possesses exclusive and state-of-the-art features, which are options on most of the Jeep Grand Cherokee's rivals:



Uconnect navigation system with Media Centre 6.5" touch screen display and 30GB hard drive

Blind-spot and rear cross path detection (Overland only)

Adaptive cruise control (Overland only)

Forward collision warning (Overland only)

Quadra-Lift air suspension

Safety and Security Summary



Both UK versions of the new Grand Cherokee are fitted with Thatcham Category 1 alarm and immobiliser systems, and the main safety and security features also include Active Head Restraints, advanced multi-stage airbags, Electronic Stability Control with ABS and ERM (Electronic Roll Mitigation), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Bi-Xenon headlamps, ParkView rear back-up camera, Trailer Sway Control which reduces trailer sway and improves handling in adverse towing conditions; rain-sensing wipers, ParkSense front and rear park assist system; SmartBeam headlamps and a system called EARS which, after an accident, turns on the interior lights, unlocks the doors, turns on the hazard warning flashers and initiates fuel shut-off.



The latest safety and security features are also available, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Forward Collision Warning, Ready Alert Braking, Rain Brake Support, Blind Spot Monitoring and Rear Cross Path Detection.



Limited



This specification features a high degree of equipment in all areas: comfort, capability, in-car entertainment, technology, design and luxury:



Quadra-Trac II® 4WD system

3.0 CRD V6 237bhp

Thatcham Category 1 Alarm and Immobiliser

Selec-Terrain™ system

Bi-Xenon HID headlamps with headlamp washers and auto-levelling

Rain sensitive windscreen wipers

Air-conditioning with dual zone Automatic Temperature Control (ATC)

Media Centre with 6.5" touch screen display and 30GB hard drive with 6700 song capacity

Keyless Enter-N-Go™

18" Alloy wheels

Fog lamps

Illuminated entry

Hill Descent Control

Hill Start Assist

Bright exhaust tailpipes

Uconnect Bluetooth with voice command

iPod® connector with remote USB port

ParkSense® front and rear park assist system

ParkView® rear back-up camera

Leather trimmed seats

Heated front and rear seats

Power 8-way driver and passenger seat memory

Power tilt / telescopic steering column

Alpine surround sound system (9 speakers and subwoofer)

Tyre pressure monitoring display

Power folding multi-function door mirrors

Limited - Options



This trim level can be further enhanced with the following options:



Rear DVD with single sunroof

CommandView panoramic sunroof

Performance pack (20" wheels with 265/60 R20 performance tyres, performance brakes and sports suspension)

Navigation & Luxury pack (Uconnect navigation system, heated steering wheel and power liftgate)

Deep-tint sunscreen glass

Overland



The standard equipment on the Overland reaches unparalleled levels for the segment, using the most refined materials together with advanced technological features. On top of the Limited specification, the Overland model adds the following items:



20" alloy wheels

Performance brakes with sports suspension

Cargo net

Door courtesy lamps

Premium Nappa leather trimmed seats with contrast stitching

Ventilated front seats

Leather covered dashboard

Dark wood interior trim inserts

Deep-tint sunscreen glass

Power liftgate

Heated steering wheel

Quadra-Lift™ air suspension

CommandView panoramic sunroof

Overland interior detailing

Uconnect navigation system

Blind-spot and rear cross path detection

Adaptive cruise control

Forward collision warning

Pricing



The Jeep Grand Cherokee range starts from £36,795 OTR with the 3.0 CRD V6 Limited, while the flagship Overland starts from £43,995 OTR. Optional special paint on all models comes at £670 RRP, while prices for the other options are as follows:



Rear DVD with single sunroof (Limited): £1,700 RRP

Rear DVD with single sunroof retrofit (Overland): £700 RRP

CommandView panoramic sunroof (Limited): £1,200 RRP

Performance pack (Limited): £2,000 RRP

Navigation & Luxury pack (Limited): £1,500 RRP

Deep-tint sunscreen glass (Limited): £350 RRP

The Jeep Grand Cherokee represents an attractive proposition not only to those who are seeking a naturally capable off-roader, but also to those who want to travel in a modern luxurious, yet refined vehicle with an all-new and distinctive design, without compromise.



The new Grand Cherokee has been designed to enhance Jeep's traditional go-anywhere, do anything reputation by utilising the latest in cutting-edge technology to create a class-leading vehicle that can overcome the most demanding of challenges.

2012 BMW M3 CRT Lightweight Sedan

2012 BMW M3 CRT Lightweight Sedan grey look


BMW recently unveiled its new M3 CRT, which puts the companies new carbon fiber technologies on display. The limited-edition sedan is based on the BMW M3 Saloon and archives a 3.5 kilograms per horsepower weight-to-power ratio. Along with a lightweight 3,483-pound body, the M3 CRT boasts a customary M high-revving V8 engine and 450 horsepower, which power it from 0 to 62 mph in just 4.4 seconds.

The production run will be very limited on the M3 CRT with only 67 units coming out of the BMW M GmbH factory. A official price has not been announced but it’s expected to be upwards of $150,000, and possibly closer to $200,000.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Bmw m3 Coupe

The E46 model truly reinforced the M3 as the class leader when it was launched in 2000. Its 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine now produced 343hp and, with its enhanced chassis and dynamic capabilities, saw off rival product with ease in both Coupé and Convertible form. The introduction of the M3 CSL upped the ante with its extensive use of aluminium and composite panels, an engine performance boost to 360hp and bespoke tyres. The CSL was a real racer for the road. An M3 CS closed the E46 M3 chapter and catered for those wanting the performance brakes and other CSL enhancements but without some of the more extreme and costly weight-saving features. The new E92 BMW M3 goes on sale in the UK on 8 September, 2007,

Bmw m3 Coupe
Bmw m3 CoupeThe spellbinding steering precision right from the factory can be improved a few shades more by the 25-millimetre lower suspension setting at the front axle and 15-millimetre lower suspension at the rear. The H&R development team has also taken care to ensure that the spring kit harmonises perfectly with the adjustable dampers, an optional extra, so you can be sure of a comfortable ride, even with the sporty setup. Better traction also facilitates higher cornering speeds – even on hairpin bends and when changing direction quickly.
Bmw m3 Coupe
Bmw m3 Coupe
Bmw m3 Coupe
Bmw m3 Coupe
Bmw m3 CoupeHere’s some news to delight M3 fans - right from the launch of the new M3, H&R has sporty components to make it even more agile. Some test drivers believe the car’s tuning places too much emphasis on comfort in comparison with its competitors – this can be sharpened up by adding an H&R spring kit.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

The Trip

Spoiler alert-o-meter: A few spoilers ahead, but nothing that will ruin your movie-going experience.

British comic Steve Coogan has played many characters including clueless talk show host Alan Partridge, an ego-maniacal movie director in Tropic Thunder, guileless and clueless high school theater teacher in Hamlet II, and a smarmy bad guy in last summer’s The Other Guys. He’s also played a character named Steve Coogan in Michael Winterbottom’s brilliant movie within a movie conceit Tristram Shandy. In that, Steve Coogan is a version of himself at once charming, ego-maniacal, clueless, and often unsympathetic, while he worries about his role in the adaptation of Tristram Shandy while trading competing barbs with his co-star, Rob Brydon.

In Winterbottom’s new film, The Trip, Steve Coogan again plays a version of actor Steve Coogan in the same vein, again trading barbs with his co-star, Rob Brydon. This time, instead of a movie within a movie, the conceit has Steve accepting an assignment from the British magazine The Observer to drive around the Northern England countryside, stay at various inns, eat at restaurants, and report the experience.

Steve had originally planned to take his young American girlfriend, but before the trip starts they decide to take a break and she flies back to Los Angeles. In her stead Steve is forced to take along TV actor/personality Rob Brydon. Rob plays basically the version of himself he played in Tristram Shandy. Steve and Rob’s relationship here is similar to the one on display in Shandy, although in that movie Steve was the bigger star. Or so it seemed. He was, after all, playing the lead character in the movie based on the classic novel. 

But you don’t have to know all this meta backstory to enjoy The Trip. After Steve and Rob set off from London in Steve’s Land Rover the movie clicks into a comfortable pastiche of road movie and buddy picture, splashed with the essence of mid-life/mid-career crisis.

Driving into the countryside, they again adopt the rhythm of competition, trying to outdo each other with everything from directions to vocal impressions. Rob is excellent at impressions and a surprising amount of time is spent on these two trying out impressions on each other. The impressions are of actors, including Sean Connery (as James Bond, of course), Michael Caine, Anthony Hopkins, Al Pacino, and Roger Moore. They give Woody Allen a shot, and it’s not bad, but they can’t nail Allen’s nasally upper register.

They gently spar over meals and during visits to historic sites along the way. These scenes register as real moments between the actors, and you can see Rob trying to make Steve laugh. Steve Coogan the character comes across as a classic actor type: pampered, petulant, privileged. Rob Brydon the character has a solid career on TV, and he is happily married with baby (this is a fabrication for the movie—we are after all in a fictional landscape, an alternative world).

In Tristram Shandy the pair’s relationship seemed predicated more on their careers, of which Steve’s was more successful. This makes sense because Tristram Shandy was, among other things, a movie about work; the tasks involved in making a movie. Here, out in the country, Steve seems jealous of Rob’s comfortable if mid-level career. A telling moment has Steve unsuccessfully recreating in front of a motel room mirror Rob’s Small Man in a Box bit, which is apparently quite popular and which Rob is happy to perform for a museum curator in return for letting them enter after hours.

Steve Coogan is perfect at playing agitated. He never really seems relaxed. He is comfortable when buffeting his emotions by always being a little taken aback: by certain accommodations, by a photo shoot, by the spotty cell phone service, and by not remembering if he’s met the beautiful photographer they meet up with at one of the inns (they have met, they’ve already slept together—but that doesn’t stop them from sleeping together again).

Steve is at a crossroads in his acting career; he never really found that breakout role to catapult him to stardom. He’s getting older (“I’ve been 41 for three years,” he says at one point), his relationship with his American girlfriend is on shaky ground, and he’s got a teenage son whom he has a hard time communicating with. When Steve’s American agent calls to tell him he’s up for a co-lead in an American police procedural series, he’s interested only in terms of being closer to his girlfriend—he’d rather do movies than TV.

The insider movie stuff is all wonderful: I’m a sucker for it. I never tired of Steve’s schtick because he wants you to laugh at him, not feel sorry for him. It’s in those rare moments when Rob makes Steve genuinely laugh that you feel the fondness these two men have for each other. Driving through the chilly mountain mornings, bickering over the meaning of an Abba song (Rob makes fun of the lyrics, while Steve sincerely loves the song), you just want to give them a group hug.

The movie has been culled from episodes of a British TV show of the same name in which, one assumes, there was more driving, more eating, more countryside, more of Steve frolicking with the locals, and more comfortable bickering. But it doesn’t feel like scattered highlights, it plays like a complete, if sometimes slight, feature film with at its core, heart, midlife ennui, and a reminder that these two performers could make a performance of any situation worth watching.



Stats:

Theater location: Landmark Theater, Kendall Square, Cambridge, Saturday, June 18th, 4:15 pm. Price: 10.00. Viewed with Liz! Snack: cashews, Diet Coke with Lime.

Landmark Theater, Kendall Square, Cambridge

Coming Attractions: 

The Topp Twins, Untouchable Girls. The trailers were full of documentaries. Talk about cheap, fast, and out of control. Let's start with this true tale of sisters who perform together as a singing comedy duo. And then, one of them gets cancer. Funny and sad at the same time.

Conan O'Brien Can't Stop. Cameras follow Conan O'Brien as he toured the country last summer, showcasing his experiences between getting kicked off The Tonight Show to starting his own show on TNT. This one looks good. So good in fact that we're seeing tomorrow. Review forthcoming.

Tabloid. Documentary by Errol Morris about a legendary scandal in Britain about the true-life story of Joyce McKinney. "She was a beauty queen, a hot little number, and she fell in love with a guy.  She made the mistake of falling for a Mormon, though, and his family and his community sent him overseas on a mission to get away from her.  She followed him.  Things got weird.  That's all you need to know."

Buck. A doc about the real Horse Whisperer as portrayed in that Robert Redford movie. It's a tear jerker, where the way a horse acts tells more about the owner than the horse. This movie looks pretty emotionally compelling.

Pianomania. About the crazy dudes who the tune pianos of the worlds greatest pianists. Seriously.

Friday, June 24, 2011

2012 Aston Martin Cygnet

Aston Martin Cygnet front side view


Aston Martins are not really inspired by Ian Fleming's fictional branch-Q, although it sometimes looks like that. Consider new Cygnet. An end-June 2009 announcement, it marks a surprising and historic collaboration between the company's choice of 007 and motorcar industry-leader Toyota.



The Cygnet is a luxury city car manufactured by Aston Martin since 2011, and derived from the Toyota IQ. Its purpose is to allow Aston Martin to comply with the European Union's fleet average emissions standards to take place in 2012.



Aston Martin Cygnet Launch Editions; White and Black

  • Aston Martin confirms launch details for new Aston Martin Cygnet city car

  • Two special launch editions to commence production of city car at company's Gaydon headquarters in the UK

  • An Aston Martin Tailor-Fit solution for the city offering luxury and individuality.



The plot involving the impersonation worthy of a spy novel. Take the Toyota iQ drive front-wheel-small cars, which recently went on sale in Japan and Europe, adds flavor Aston styling and interior appointments, and then offer it to those monied as economical, useful city and suburban runabout with all the luxuries, comfort, and seal nameplate from Aston DB9, Vantage, or RAPIDE, plus super easy parking and decent low-emissions Greenpeace.



James Bond would appreciate Cygnet's impossible origins in a chance encounter between Aston CEO Dr Ulrich Bez and Akio Toyoda, the president pointed to the recent Toyota Motor Company in Japan and the grandson of the founder of the company. According to British magazine Autocar, the two moguls friendship struck in early 2009 at the Nurburgring 24 hour race, where the team they happen to share the garage space. Bez apparently offensive idea Cygnet, Toyoda-san willing, and Aston smallest ever published a few months later by e-mail tandem company.



The Cygnet will be available initially only in the UK, and then to other EU countries. Production and sales commenced in January 2011 and the market coverage will expand by 2012. Sales will not be restricted; however, it is expected that demand from existing Aston Martin owners for Cygnet would initially take priority. Aston CEO Ulrich Bez recently announced shipping expectations of about 4000 per year at a price of about £30,000. Bez states that the Cygnet demonstrates the company's commitment to innovation and integrity, whist respecting the need to satisfy demands of emissions and space.



The Cygnet has 98 bhp (73 kW; 99 PS) 1.3L straight-4 engine, it produces 110g of CO2/km and the fuel consumption is 58.9 mpg-US (3.99 L/100 km; 70.7 mpg-imp).



In BBC's Top Gear car magazine show (Season 15, Episode 3), the Cygnet was made fun of in the "News" section of the programme. Presenters Jeremy Clarkson, James May and Richard Hammond all unanimously expressed distaste for the concept.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

2009 Dodge Viper

Introduction

When it comes to super cars, European automakers typically represents refinement, couture style and technological development, to the point of sterility. Here in the States, super cars is relatively raw, visceral and robust to the point of brutality. We are the ankle to their scalpel, that bucking Bronco to show their horse and Bourne for their Bond. For better or worse, this is how we roll.



The current third-generation Viper maintains tension and soul in 1989, Carroll Shelby-inspired concept, with the required low-slung body, long hood houses a massive V10, comically wide tires and gruff side exhaust pipes. The Dodge Viper not ask for permission and makes no excuses. Despite the technological advances in the last two decades, the Viper has just enough safety to make it legal to delegate the remaining responsibilities to the hands and feet of the driver. If efficiency is in itself not enough to cause palpitations, believes that traction and stability control are not available, and circumstances can go from exhilarating to terrifying in short order.

It is this unfiltered, uncomplicated character, which makes the Viper so attractive to enthusiasts, hearkening back to epochs when the driver was heroic, rugged and based on the seats of their pants instead of electronic aids. For those seeking more comfort, refinement and everyday driving manners, there is always the Corvette Z06, various European offerings such as the Audi R8 and Porsche 911, and even Nissan's new GT-R. But the 2009 Dodge Viper best the Z06 in almost every relevant performance metric and is significantly cheaper than something similar from the old world. Ultimately it comes down to what you're willing to compromise - performance or finesse.


Body style, trim levels, and Options

2009 Dodge Viper SRT-10 is offered as either a two-seat coupe or a soft-top roadster. For the standard price of admission, you get huge forged-aluminum wheels with Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires measure 275/35R18 front and 345/30R19 in back. Inside, the Viper comes with race-inspired seats, power-adjustable pedals, full power accessories, a tilting steering wheel, keyless entry and an in-dash six-disc CD changer mated to a seven-speaker, 300-watt audio system. Since the Viper is more show than go, cosmetics and convenience options are scarce. Racing stripes, paint and wheel options, instrument-panel trim, a two-tone interior, navigation and satellite radio are all on offer.

The high performance-enhancing opportunity Viper is American Club Racer (ACR) package, which is only available for the Coupe variant. Although street legal, ACR is clearly intended for track use. The package adds carbon fiber aerodynamic devices, including a massive wing mounted high above the tail, a front splitter, Fender-mounted dive planes and further body treatments. All this Aero work resulting in a claimed 1000 pounds of down force at 150 km / h. Lighter wheels shodÄ› with stickier tires (both slightly wider in front), lighter brake rotors, a stiffer suspension with 14-way adjustable shocks and deleted foglamps round of the ACR package. Ultimately, the ACR weighs in 46 pounds lighter than the standard Coupe.

In the spirit of "you can never go too far," ACR package can be further strengthened with the hard core of the package. In general, expect an extra performance to cost more, but the hard core option is free - primarily because the package eliminates opportunities that are not trail-essential. Delete Inger includes radio, speakers, amplifier, trunk upholstery, hood pad and tire inflation. Weight savings amount to an additional 42 pounds - not a lot, but every ounces counts on the track.

Power Trains and Performance

During the Viper's Louverne cap is an imposing 8.4-liter V10 engine that thunder out 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. It is enough to propel the sleek snake from zero to 60 km / h in 3.7 seconds. Quarter-mile is a memory in a simple 11.8 seconds. Top speed is a claimed 200 mph. All this merriment is funneled to the rear wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox, which is the only transmission available.

Fuel economy - though obviously a reflection of exotic sports - registers an EPA-rated city / country of 13/22 mpg and 16 mpg in combined driving.


Security

The best security for the 2009 Dodge Viper is not included in the car. It is a driver with great skill, preferably with a racing pedigree. What is included, however, are anti-lock brakes with huge 14-inch rotors that can stop the Viper from 60 km / h on an eye-bulging 104 feet. Thus, absent the side airbags, traction and stability control - and it makes skills in the aforementioned driver even more critical

Interior design and special features

Getting may also be a challenge. Because of the trademark side exhaust, since thresholds can get hot enough to burn your calves, and more drivers will find that the little door opening inhibit entry and exit.

The overall design of the Viper's interior is a little sad, but it can be livened up a bit with the optional two-tone color schemes and dash panel inserts. The black-on-white-faced gauges are easy to read and well equipped. The large tachometer is mounted centrally in the instrument pod, next to 220-mph speedometer, max. Amid console can accommodate additional gauges, audio system with six-CD changer, climate and a lush red engine start button to fire up the V10.


Driving Impressions

2009 Dodge Viper is raw, raw, loud and unrefined compared with other sports, and therein lies much of its appeal. As with previous generations, when you pin the gas pedal, you will be attached to the backs. Jam on the brakes, and you can feel your internal organs Slam against your rib cage. Novices can appreciate the Viper's straight-line power and anger, but only advanced drivers should examine its cornering limits.

The control is precise and offers enough feedback to throw the Viper deep into turns, while judicious amount of throttle from a deft right foot can pass his nose with smart-bomb accuracy. But the sniper-like accuracy can be achieved with a sharper, brighter artists like Z06 or range-topping Porsche. Get it right in a Viper and the payoff is immediate and plentiful. Get it wrong and you will be dependent on every car-control skills you've ever learned. Barring shocks or damage, either outcome is the game entertaining and rewarding.

2009 Cadillac CTS-V

Introduction

Back when the first generation CTS was still in production, the folks at Cadillac had a bright idea: shoehorn a Corvette engine in the CTS, slap on a series of go-fast goodies and give the traditional kings of super-sedan Hill -- - - BMW M5, Mercedes-Benz AMG's various sports sedan and Audi's S6 - something to worry about. Cadillac called it the CTS-V, and its performance numbers were indeed impressive, as was its relative affordability. In other ways, but it was not quite ready for prime time, from its low-buck interior to its stated rear axle-hop during acceleration runs.



This year it is a whole new ballgame. 2009 Cadillac CTS-V, based on far superior second-generation CTS platform, ditches the axle hop, is a first-rate interior and? Perhaps most importantly? achieves record-breaking four-door speed. The 556-horsepower, Supercharged 6.2-liter V8 (which is essentially a slightly detuned version of the same engine found in the Corvette ZR-1) helps the new V made some ridiculous straight-line times: zero to 60 km / h in 4.3 seconds and the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds at almost 115 km / h. In addition, the CTS-V is equally impressive when the going get twisty. In a recent comparison test, we found out for ourselves what Cadillac had told us all along - V is faster than both the M5 and C63 AMG around a racetrack, despite a base price that is nearly $ 25,000 less than BMW.

Stupendous performance rights aside, there are a few drawbacks worth mentioning. First and foremost, it's hard to tell from the driver's seat, there is a V8 under the hood. The compressor whine is omnipresent, and it is expected V8 rumble is AWOL. Second, the automatic transmission can feel raw at times, thanks to a slow-witted manual mode, upshifts and rough in both Sports Drive and manual modes. Moreover, the standard seats are not very different from those in the regular CTS, which is disappointing in a dedicated sports machine? although the optional sports seats RECARO is irreproachable.

The super-sedan segment is an embarrassment of riches these days, with many German players boast sophisticated design, sports-carlike handling and sonorous V8 or V10 engines. But the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V has elbowed its way to the leader of this sparsely occupied class with its unparalleled all-around performance, stylish metal plates and reasonable prices. We are particularly pleased with the smaller M3 and C63 AMG sports sedan, which competes directly with Cadillac at the price, but the dimensions of the CTS-V put it together more, much more expensive competitors. Super-sedan customers owe itself to take a hard look at this hard core Caddy.


Body style, trim levels, and Options

2009 Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance sports sedan that comes in a single trim level. Standard features include 19-inch alloy wheels, Brembo brakes, adaptive xenon headlamps, an adaptive suspension with driver-adjustable shock absorbers, keyless entry and ignition (including remote start the automatic transmission models), rear park assist, leather upholstery, a leather - wrapped power tilt -telescoping steering wheel cylinders, power-adjustable heated front seats with driver memory, dual-zone automatic climate control, OnStar and Bluetooth. Also standard is a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system with a CD/MP3 player, satellite radio, a USB port, an iPod-ready auxiliary audio jack and a 40-gigabyte hard drive that can be used to store music .

Options include a hard-drive-based navigation system with real-time traffic and weather reporting, 14-way power-adjustable RECARO sports seats with heating and ventilation, a suede-trimmed steering wheel and a sunroof.


Power Trains and Performance

A Supercharged 6.2-liter V8 powers the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V, send a whopping 556 horsepower and 551 pound-feet of torque to the rear wheels. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, and a six-speed automatic transmission with steering wheel-mounted shift buttons is optional. For performance testing, automatic-equipped CTS-V catapulted to 60 km / h in 4.3 seconds and flew through the quarter-mile in 12.4 seconds at 114.7 mph. Brake Capacity was also phenomenal, as our test car stopped from 60 mph in a seatbelt-strain 104 feet. Cadillac estimates that the CTS-V will return 13 mpg in the city and 19 mpg on the highway.


Security

2009 Cadillac CTS-V comes standard with anti-lock brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and GM's OnStar emergency communications system.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety crash tests, the regular CTS earned scores of "Good" (the highest possible) for both frontal-offset and side-impact protection. In government crash tests, the CTS earned four out of five stars for driver protection in head-on collisions, while the front passenger received five-star protection. The CTS also received five stars for side-impact protection for front and rear passengers.

Interior design and special features

2009 CTS-V's interior is not very different from the regular CTS. Fortunately, the building boasts one of the nicer interior in its segment, with a sleekly attractive center stack design and mostly high-quality materials. We would advise skipping the base seats, as they are neither supports nor particularly comfortable. Get the optional RECARO sports seats instead, who has a crush on all the right places, but comfy enough for long trips. Rear seat dimensions are satisfactory, even for larger adults. The regular CTS's available split-folding rear seat is not available on the CTS-V, although a pass-through is standard. Bagage offers 13.6 Cubic holds, although reading the major issues is hampered by a short deck.

The design of the optional navigation system is particularly clever, display withdrawn in line, but the top inch of the screen remains visible for the audio system. Another well thought out feature is standard 40 GB hard drive, which not only allows for storage of music files, but enables AM / FM and satellite radio to be rewound, paused and resumed? much like a DVR for radio. Bose surround-sound audio system provides rich bass and a pleasingly warm sound.

Driving Impressions

At 4313 pounds, the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V weighs as much as some crossover SUVs. This makes his face flattening performance even more amazing. Despite the otherworldly lap times, although the CTS-V ultimately can not hide his 2-ton-plus mass on winding roads. The CTS-V feel a little portly in tight corners, although the 556 horses make amends in a hurry when the road straightens out. The default setting steering mechanism is too light for a high-performance sports sedan, but it is easily remedied by tapping the traction control button twice - this activates Competitive driving, weighing up to the steering, traction control turned off and switch to a more lenient stability control program for aggressive driving.

The automatic transmission's lurching full throttle upshifts are crude, but effective, although we can not say the same to the manual shift buttons on the back of the steering wheel spokes. They are so slow on the draw, you're better off just leaving the transmission in Drive Sport. The manual transmission can be a better bet, since it has a positive corporate change efforts and a surprisingly light and progressive clutch.

Sports cars pictures and wallpapers

There are a huge variety of sports cars in the automobile industry today. Different automobile manufacturers produce different types of sports cars and other cars. The following are the pictures of some of the sports cars.







2009 Cadillac XLR-V

Introduction

When one of the world's largest automakers, Cadillac has experienced several ups and downs over the past few decades than Apple's stock price. But GM's wreath-and-crest division has made a concerted effort in recent years to regain its former glory. Instead of giving European and Japanese automakers to rule the roost luxury brand, Cadillac has decided to tackle head-on competitors. A key part of this effort is the company's Halo car, the 2009 Cadillac XLR-V.



As ultra-performance version of the XLR two-seat lift just Hardtop roadster, the XLR-V serve notice to the European carmakers that they do not have an exclusive hold on sexy slip tops with blistering performance. XLR-V also boasts of the necessary six-figure price of admission. Subtle hints such as 19-inch wheels, a mesh grille and quad exhaust tips clear signal that this is not a conventional XLR. Backing up the "V" badge is a hand-built, Supercharged 4.4-liter V8 that cranks a lusty 443 horsepower, along with firmer suspension tuning and upgraded brakes.

With its muscular engine and Corvette-based platform, one would expect the Cadillac XLR-V to be a strong performer. Safe enough, ripping its acceleration gives small luxury road concepts behind, and its handling and braking are more than respectable. But its relatively uncommunicative steering gives us chills, and its handling is still not as sharp as what you find in European competition. As such, the XLR-V is far from class-leading driver in the entertainment category.

A few other minor deficiencies prevent the XLR-V from taking the title of top luxury roadster. While the cockpit looks luxurious, it does not fit riders of all heights. Moreover, while most interior materials seem appropriate rich, a few others are decidedly average. In this exclusive segment, every detail counts, and XLR-V can ill afford such missteps.

The luxury roadster class includes such luminaries as the BMW M6 convertible, Jaguar XKR, Mercedes-Benz SL-Class and Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet. Of these, the Porsche offers the most rewarding drive, the M6 provides room for four and Mercedes arguably provides the best combination of luxury, style and performance, especially in AMG form. 2009 Cadillac XLR-V is an interesting domestic alternative, and it may even make more heads than the other cars because of its relative scarcity. But if it was our 100 grand, we will take the Porsche or Benz.

Body style, trim levels, and Options

2009 Cadillac XLR-V is a two-seat luxury roadster. Its retractable Hardtop can transform the car from closed for Coupe wide-open convertible in less than 30 seconds. Almost every imaginable luxury feature comes standard, including a nine-speaker Bose stereo system (with satellite radio), OnStar telematics, a navigation system, Bluetooth, keyless entry and start, Xenon headlamps, adaptive cruise control, a heated steering wheel with power tilt and telescoping adjustments, a head-up display and rear parking assist. The lone factory option is a set of chrome-finished wheels.

Power Trains and Performance

A Supercharged 4.4-liter V8 sends 443 horsepower and 414 pound-feet of torque to 2009 Cadillac XLR-V's rear wheels. Power is channeled through a six-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability. We timed a XLR-V from zero to 60 km / h in a mere 4.6 seconds, bringing it more than a full second ahead of the standard XLR and right in the thick of high-performance roadster race. Braking Ability, at 119 meters from 60 km / h, are adequate, although the top stoppers can do the deed under 115 feet.


Security

Anti-lock disc brakes, traction and stability control is standard on all 2009 Cadillac XLR-V. As in all convertible of this ilk, XLR-V's side airbags inflate to protect both head and torso.


Interior design and special features

Cockpit of the XLR-V offers much to like. Its design is appealingly simple, leather complemented the wood trim convincing and solid build quality. But we find the XLR-V's cockpit less attractive in light of the car price. The switchgear looks and feels pedestrian, and some trim pieces have a tacked-on appearance. As in many GM cars of origin, too many functions have been crowded together in turn-signal stalk. In addition, the steering wheel is a little too big for our taste, and the limited rear seat travel to impede the styles higher drivers. Tribe boasts a respectable 11.6 Cubic of space when the top is up, top down, however, that number drops to just 4.4 Cubic.


Driving Impressions

With a jump of 123 horsepower and 114 lb-ft of torque over the standard XLR, 2009 Cadillac XLR-V is much more responsive. Lean in the throttle and XLR-V catapults forward on a wave of Supercharged torque. Even with its firmer suspension setup But the XLR-V is still tuned more for boulevard cruising than all-out handling, which means that it feels softer than some more focused rivals. This attribute conspires with rather heavy and numb steering setup to make this performance roadster feel a little out of his element on winding roads.

But in normal driving, XLR-V feel fast and stable. Cowl shake is almost non-existent and the V8 sounds fantastic. Wind buffeting can be onerous with the top down, but the XLR-V is whisper-quiet with its top up.

Fast cars pictures gallery

There are different types of fast cars available in the automobile market now-a-days. these cars are manufactured by different types of automobile gaints.some of the pics and wallpapers of fast cars are here under.

Many new types of fast cars are being introduced into the market everyday, the following are few of them. bugatti veyron and pagani zonda are among them. just have a look at them.








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