HP's Touchsmart tx2 is awesome because its the first consumer-oriented convertible notebook to feature a multitouch technology built into the display. The 12.1-inch screen uses a capacitive touchpanel that can track two points simultaneously, operates with fingers or a stylus, and comes with the Mediasmart 2.0 interface customized for the notebook. While Dell's oft-mentioned Latitude XT came out last year with the multitouch power to simultaneously track all five fingers, the feature was kept dormant until the middle of 2008 and lacks any realy mainstream software to take advantage of the tech.
The Mediasmart 2.0 software lets you watch movies, look at photos, play music, listen to radio and watch TV on demand. HP is partnering with MTV networks to bring IPTV content in from MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon. On the hardware side, you can carry out a variety of gestures on the tx2 including select, drag, double tap, pinch, zoom, arc, rotate and flick. In addition to working with the MediaSmart software, the multitouch gestures will also work with a variety of Windows software out of the box including Microsoft Office, most internet browsers, and most photo applications.
In addition to the 1200x800 multitouch capability, the 4.5-pound tx2 has 2.1GHz AMD Turion X2 processor, ATI Radeon HD 3200 Graphics, 8 GB RAM, 500 GB HDD (5400 RPM), Bluetooth, integrated webcam, 8x DVD burner, VGA out and a digital pen.
As far as Windows 7 Beta compatibility goes, the tx2 currently will not work with the new OS, but HP says they are working with Microsoft and they can't comment on unreleased products. The HP Touchsmart tx2 is available for pre-order beginning today over at HP, starting at $1150. It will begin shipping at the end of November. [HP]
HP Brings Multi-touch Innovation to Consumer Notebooks
Powerful multimedia software puts digital content at people???s fingertips
PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov. 19, 2008 ??? HP today announced the industry???s first convertible notebook PC with multi-touch technology designed specifically for consumers.
Building upon the touch innovation HP developed for its TouchSmart desktop PCs, the HP TouchSmart tx2 Notebook PC was developed for people on the go who value having their digital content at their fingertips ??? literally.
The enhanced HP MediaSmart digital entertainment software suite on the tx2 allows users to more naturally select, organize and manipulate digital files such as photos, music, video and web content by simply touching the screen.
???Breezing through websites and enjoying photos or video at the tap, whisk or flick of a finger is an entirely new way to enjoy digital content on a notebook PC,??? said Ted Clark, senior vice president and general manager, Notebook Global Business Unit, Personal Systems Group, HP. ???With the introduction of the TouchSmart tx2, HP is providing users an easier, more natural way to interact with their PCs, and furthering touch innovation.???
The tx2 is the latest result of HP???s 25 years of touch technology experience, which began with the introduction of the HP-150, a touch screen PC that was well ahead of its time, in 1983.
Digital media powerhouse
The tx2 gives customers the choice to set aside the keyboard and mouse in favor of a more natural user interface ??? the fingertip.HP???s multi-touch display delivers quick and easy access to information, entertainment and other social media. The tx2 recognizes simultaneous input from more than one finger using ???capacitive multi-touch technology,??? which enables the use of gestures such as pinch, rotate, arc, flick, press and drag, and single and double tap.
The convertible design with a twist hinge allows consumers to enjoy the TouchSmart in three modes: PC, display and tablet. With a rechargeable digital ink pen, users can turn the tx2 into a tablet PC to write, sketch, draw, take notes or graph right onto the screen ??? and then automatically convert handwriting into typed text.
Starting at less than 4.5 pounds, the tx2 possesses a 12.1-inch diagonal BrightView LED display and an HP Imprint ???Reaction??? design.
The tx2 notebook???s HP MediaSmart software lets customers enjoy photos, listen to music and watch Internet(1) TV or movies in high-definition.(2) The software is optimized for multi-touch input while also making it simple to search digital content.
In an effort to provide consumers with rich content through the Internet, HP has expanded its partnership with MTV Networks (MTVN) by offering video content from 10 television channels and online brands within MediaSmart???s TV module.
Beginning in December, users can enjoy all the best content from Nickelodeon, the No. 1 entertainment brand for kids; MTV, the premier destination for music and youth culture programming; and COMEDY CENTRAL, the only all-comedy network and the No. 1 network in primetime for men ages 18 to 24. MTVN also plans to make content from Atom, CMT, GameTrailers, Logo, Spike, The N and VH1 available within MediaSmart???s TV module.
The MediaSmart software was first brought to HP HDX notebook PCs in September, using the interface first popularized on HP TouchSmart PCs. HP plans to include the software in the tx2 and all future HP consumer notebook PCs.
Powered by the AMD Turion??? X2 Ultra Dual-Core Mobile Processor or AMD Turion X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor(3) and built on Windows?? Vista Home Premium, the tx2 will be made available worldwide in an array of configure-to-order options.
Additional features, accessories and service
The HP TouchSmart tx2 series is ENERGY STAR?? qualified and EPEAT??? Silver registered. Mercury-free LED display panels are included on the tx2 as part of HP???s ongoing commitment to reduce its impact on the environment.The HP tx Series Notebook Stand elevates the tx2, enhancing its usability while stationary, including making it possible to put the PC in an upright position for full interactivity with the touch screen.
HP Webcam with Integrated Microphones allows users to see brighter, cleaner images when chatting over an Internet(1) connection.
The tx2 offers access to a variety of self-help tools built in and online. It also is supported by HP Total Care, which enables consumers to reach support agents 24/7 by phone, email or real-time chat.
Pricing and availability
The HP TouchSmart tx2 is available for ordering today in the United States at www.hpdirect.com with a starting U.S. price of $1,149. (4) More information about the tx2 is available at www.hp.com/go/touchsmarttx2.HP TouchSmart tx2 Notebook PC
THE WORLD'S FIRST MULTI-TOUCH CONSUMER NOTEBOOK*
??? Experience intuitive, two-finger control of entertainment within HP
MediaSmart.
??? Enjoy music, photos, movies and TV programs within HP MediaSmart.
??? Get fast, direct access to an HP tx2 Support Specialist @ 866.408.5408
(U.S. only).
??? Twist the display up to 180?? to share content and watch films — or fold it
flat for writing.
??? Surf the Web(15) and use applications intuitively by touching the screen
with a finger.
??? True Tablet PC: Write, draw and erase accurately with the included pen.
??? Simplify your password management with the optional integrated
fingerprint reader.
??? Engage in live video chat using the HP Webcam(15) and
integrated microphone.
??? Enjoy the ultimate audio entertainment experience with SRS Premium
Sound.
* All disclaimers shown on the bottom of page 2.KEY SPECS
??? AMD Athlon??? X2 Dual-Core Processor QL-64 (2.1 GHz, 1MB L2 Cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) OR,
AMD Athlon??? X2 Dual-Core Processor QL-62 (2.0 GHz, 1MB L2 Cache (3)(4)(5)(6)(7) OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor RM-74 (2.2GHz, 1MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor RM-72 (2.1GHz, 1MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor ZM-80 (2.1GHz, 2MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor ZM-82 (2.2GHz, 2MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor ZM-84 (2.3GHz, 2MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
OR,
AMD Turion??? X2 Dual-Core Mobile Processor ZM-86 (2.4GHz, 2MB L2 cache) (3)(4)(5)(6)(7)
??? Genuine Windows Vista?? Ultimate(1) (2) OR,
Genuine Windows Vista?? Home Premium(1) (2)OR,
Genuine Windows Vista?? Business(1) (2)
??? 12.1-inch diagonal WXGA (1280 x 800), Integrated touch-screen, Convertible display
??? ATI Radeon??? HD 3200(9) available
??? Up to 8GB DDR2 SDRAM System Memory (2 SODIMM; 64-bit OS)
??? 160/250/320/400G/500B(8) 5400 rpm SATA
??? SuperMulti 8X DVD??R/RW with Double Layer Support(10) (11) OR,
LightScribe SuperMulti 8X DVD??RW with Double Layer Support(10) (11) (12)
??? 802.11b/g WLAN OR,
802.11b/g WLAN and Bluetooth(15) OR,
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n WLAN(14) OR,
Wireless 802.11a/b/g/n with Bluetooth(14) (15)UNSURPASSED STYLE
HP???s innovative notebook PC designs truly integrate fashion and technology. High-gloss HP
Imprint finish encases the elegant forms and is more durable than traditional painted
surfaces. The tx2 Reaction Imprint reveals an energized pattern inspired by the circular
elements found in audio equipment. HP notebooks have won coveted International Red
Dot and iF material awards.MOBILE ENTERTAINMENT
Providing more choices than ever, HP MediaSmart enables access to DVDs, videos, photos,
music, games(25) and Internet TV(15) at the touch of a button. Built-in demos show you how
to add music to your slide shows or videos with drag-and-drop functionality ??? and much
more. Dual headphone jacks enable you to share films and music without disturbing
others. Muvee Reveal makes creating films complete with effects a snap! And the included
HP Mini Remote Control can be stored in the ExpressCard slot. It???s time to play!WORLD-CLASS SUPPORT
??? One-year limited hardware and software warranty with 24/7 phone support with
numerous extended service plan options
??? Toll-free phone support during warranty @ 1.800.HPINVENT (1.800.474.6836) in the
U.S. and Canada; online support for the life of the product by clicking on the ??????? icon
??? Easy-to-use dashboard for system diagnostics and updates with preinstalled HP AdvisorMOBILITY YOU CAN TOUCH
For those whose active lives demand a device for note capture, entertainment,
communication and robust computing that's easy to carry everywhere, the HP TouchSmart
tx2 Notebook PC delivers. The tx2 combines powerful ultra-powerful computing with Tablet
PC capabilities and entertainment features in an attractive design light enough to go
anywhere. With multi-touch support within HP MediaSmart, it is the first notebook PC for
consumers that enables the use of two fingers to navigate HP's entertainment applications.
HP has developed a specific set of gestures to help you get the most from your TouchSmart
tx2.
??? SINGLE, DOUBLE TAP: Select objects by touching them once (single tap), or double tap
to open objects/programs.
??? FLICK: Scroll or pan within an application either horizontally or vertically. For example,
in MediaSmart Photo, flick your finger to the left on the display and the inertia from your
flick will move the photos leftward, just as if you pushed a piece of paper to the left on a
table.
??? PRESS & DRAG: Touch an object on the display and hold and drag it to the desired
destination.
??? ARC: Allows you to move tracks to/from playlists without having to make a straight line.
??? PINCH: Touch an object on the display once to select the item then place 2 fingers on
opposite corners of the object, then move them closer together to decrease the object???s
size or to zoom out. Move fingers away from one another to enlarge the object or to
zoom in.
??? ROTATE: Rotate photos by touching the object once to select the item then use 2 fingers
on opposite corners of the image and rotate the image either clockwise or
counter-clockwise.
??? LAUNCH MEDIASMART: Touch the screen with two fingers together and write the letter
m on the display to launch the MediaSmart Smart Menu.
??? ENERGY STAR?? qualified to conserve energy
??? EPEAT SILVER registered
??? Recyclable box for less waste
??? Exclusive use of EPA SmartWay carriers for reduced transportation-related emissions.
??? Replaceable battery for longer life span
??? Free recycling for your old computer hardware**
Please recycle your computer hardware and printing supplies. HP recycling services make
responsible disposal easy. Visit www.hp.com/go/ecohighlights for more information. **
Shipping charges apply.
Digital ink pen
Exclusive HP Reaction Imprint finish
HP Mini Remote Control
HP TouchSmart tx2 Notebook PC
HP recommends Windows Vista?? Home Premium.
The Nissan Cube is hoping to capture the boxy chic market the Scion xB pioneered when it goes on sale in the US market next year. We think the Cube has a lot going for it. When it does arrive the funky little 2009 Nissan Cube will sport the same 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine found in the Nissan Versa, good for 122 HP and 127 lb-ft of torque. These will come mated to either Nissan's CVT transmission or a six-speed manual, for those who like to stand out in a crowd and row their own gears. Further differentiating the unique econobox from the rest of the market will be the "water drop" interior accents in the headliner and controls that give the appearance of rippling water. As with the Fit and Scion, the Cube will come loaded with features such as a sliding "sofa style" bench, remote keyless entry, an iPod-ready sound system and standard ABS. Buyers will also be treated to a host of other dealer-added accessories that could help propel the odd wagon into the hearts and homes of budget-conscious-yet-trendy buyers. Full details in the press release below.
2009 NISSAN CUBE SET FOR SPRING U.S. DEBUT; NEW ENTRY-LEVEL COMPACT COMBINES FASHION WITH FUNCTIONALITY
??? Small But Substantial, Spirited But Economical, All-New Third Generation Cube???s Asymmetrical Design and Lounge-Style Interior Provide Unexpected Charm and Utility ???
Huey Lewis once sang ???It???s hip to be square.??? Few believed him. Mathletes wax poetic about the superior geometric efficiencies of a cube in terms of volume v. surface area. And get little respect. Cavemen discovered that a round stone rolls better than a square one. And, as a consequence, gave birth to the traffic jam. In 1998, Nissan introduced the original Cube, an aptly named box-on-wheels, to minor consumer interest. Perhaps, like homo erectus, the Cube was simply ahead of its time.
But times change, and so did the Cube. In 2002, an all-new second generation Nissan Cube was introduced in the Japanese market. More spacious inside, more glass outside, more power under the hood and, more importantly, a few more angles and curved surface details added to its compact, slab-sided exterior. Quintessentially Japanese, this new Cube took Tokyo by storm. A pocket-sized fun-and-function cocktail mixing the charm of Godzilla and the wit of Mothra, buyers were smitten. And so, it turns out, Huey was right after all.
Like the Nissan GT-R before it, the Nissan Cube soon found an audience outside of Japan ??? not in person, but through its exposure in fashion and automotive magazines, videos and on the Web.
Reboot to today, more than 10 years since its original appearance, and the Nissan Cube is ready to meet the world in person, coming to America in spring 2009 in an all-new, dramatically rethought third generation design that is clever, quirky, witty, fun and uniquely functional. And still totally square.
More than just unique geometry, however, the new 2009 Nissan Cube is also conceived as a totally different take on an automobile ??? a car that doesn???t want to be defined as car. ???With its unique blend of fashion and function, Cube imagines a life less ordinary,??? said Al Castignetti, vice president, Sales, Nissan Division, Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA). ???Cube is as much of a Mobile Device as it is an automobile, something that enhances life like people???s digital devices do. Cube is a vehicle that people of all ages can fall in love with, even when they don???t love cars.???
Evocative Yet Rational
Though its uniquely styled, asymmetrical body makes a standout statement against the backdrop of today???s look-alike entry-level vehicles, Cube presents a range of strong rational arguments for purchase as well.Along with its projected fuel economy of over 30 mph Highway (equipped with the CVT transmission, actual EPA estimates not available at this time), Cube offers an alphabet of standard safety equipment ??? including an Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), Traction Control System (TCS), Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), six air bags (including front, side and curtain supplemental air bags) and front seat Active Head Restraints.
???The new Nissan Cube is not, by any measure, a pure ???youth car,??? though it especially meets the needs of young adults??? lives in the sense that it is social, expressive and practical,??? said Castignetti. ???And like many entry-level vehicles, Cube will be purchased by young consumers with the help or influence of their parents. We believe the combination of value, fuel economy and safety will be especially reassuring to parents involved in such decisions.???
A ???Bulldog in Sunglasses???
The all-new 2009 Nissan Cube builds on the previous generation Cube???s non-traditional design with an improved stance and an added sense of dynamic movement. With Cube???s long wheelbase relative to its overall length (a 99.6-inch wheelbase against a 156.7-inch overall length) and wide track, the wheels, in effect, are pushed out to each corner ??? providing exceptional space utilization and a confident-looking stance that has been compared to a ???bulldog in sunglasses.??????The designers, engineers and planners??? effort and passion in creating the next generation Cube was unheard of ??? perhaps only exceeded in recent memory by that of the Nissan GT-R development team,??? said Castignetti. ???They were constantly drawing, cartooning, adding thoughts and ideas, which is how the image of the bulldog emerged and evolved. This was not a traditional development process.???
Along with its stance, the ???incognito canine??? look is aided by the wide headlights and grille treatment, the small but substantial body proportions and the short ???tail??? section. In the rear, the bar-type taillights reinforce the wide, anchored feel. The Cube???s creators also sought to maintain a sense of ???pure design,??? reducing the number of character lines to give simplicity and freshness to the styling.
Another unique aspect of the Cube???s exterior is the greenhouse. The A-pillars are positioned far outward and relatively upright, giving a wider range of forward visibility. The front door windows utilize a ???photo frame??? design patterned after a personal photo frame, while the asymmetrical wraparound side/rear window creates enhanced rear diagonal visibility for lane changes and reverse parking.
???The ???geometric circle shape in the square??? rear window is Cube???s signature,??? said Castignetti. ???Though there are D-pillars on both sides of the Cube, the visual effect of the narrower passenger-side pillar is quite remarkable in the overall appearance, a look aided by the asymmetrical back door.???
Unlike typical top-hinged or clamshell-style utility rear doors, Cube features an easy-access refrigerator-style opening, which makes it possible to open or close it even if parked tight against other cars in parallel parking spaces or when backed in against a wall or other obstacle.
The back door opens fully when space allows for loading groceries, luggage or large-sized objects ??? or to a limited-access position (about eight inches) when space is restricted for retrieving or loading a backpack or other small objects. The one-hand door handle operation is designed for easy use, even while carrying things in the other hand or arm.
The 2009 Nissan Cube is available in eight mild-to-wild exterior colors: Chrome Silver, Steel Grey, Bitter Chocolate, Scarlet Red, Caribbean Blue, Moss Green, Super Black and White Pearl.
A ???Casual Lounge??? Interior
The centerpiece of the new Cube???s universal appeal is its ???social space??? ??? the surprisingly roomy interior that offers room for five in a lounge-like comfort. ???Cube is not wasteful in terms of its footprint, carbon or physical. It creates a third space, in addition to home and school, for interacting with friends. It???s a space that is highly changeable and adaptable to owners evolving lives, with plenty of room for personalization,??? said Castignetti.Cube???s clever, inspired and surprisingly open occupant space was conceived with a ???Jacuzzi Curve??? layout and ???floating meter pod??? driver???s area. It combines ???casual lounge???-style passenger seating with a relaxed driving experience. The interactive interior is anchored by its curve-themed architecture, such as the subtle wavy shaping of the instrument panel, door panels, seat shapes, armrests and the iconic circular/oval shapes of elements ranging from air conditioning vents, door pulls and climate controls.
The comfortable Cube seating includes 6-way manual driver???s seat and 4-way manual front passenger???s seat, along with a ???lounge sofa??? style sliding rear bench seat.
The reclining rear seat can be adjusted to three positions ??? full rearward (providing ample legroom), mid-position (3.9 inches forward) or front position (6.0 inches forward). The rear seat also is positioned higher than the front seats, theater style, enhancing rear passenger comfort and visibility.
???In some ways, the Cube is like the big cardboard appliance boxes you used to play in as a kid ??? they could be clubhouses, race cars, forts, whatever your mood and imagination wanted at the time,??? said Castignetti. ???The new Cube???s interior leaves room for imagination and personalization, yet also starts with a solid functional purpose.???
Stress-Free Driving, Room For Personalization
Cube???s stress-free driving experience is the result of a number of factors: an extremely tight 32.8-foot curb-to-curb turning radius, a tall seating position made possible by the tall body height, an extremely short hood ???invisible length??? (the area of the hood panel that the driver is unable to see) and the good rear visibility for parking and backing up.???Our studies show that one of the most stressful aspects for young or inexperienced drivers is parking, particularly parallel parking,??? said Castignetti. ???Cube is extremely adaptable to parking environments in terms of its compact exterior dimensions, good visibility and easy steering.???
Other interior features include the ???floating pod??? instrument panel with asymmetrical light blue and white gauges, which are designed to make it easier to distinguish between the speedometer and the tachometer. The gauge needles ???sweep??? when the engine is started to add a sense of flair, while the gradation effect gives a natural ambience similar to the glow of the white moon and the blue earth. Sub-gauges are concentrated for enhanced visibility. The three-spoke steering wheel is available with leather wrapping and steering wheel-mounted audio controls.
Convenient storage spaces and cup/bottle holders are abundant throughout the Cube interior ??? including six cupholders (instrument panel, front center console and rear armrests) and five bottle holders (door panels and center console). There are also detachable multi-hooks for holding bags or hats, which can be moved from place to place ??? including the instrument panel and rear passenger doors.
The ???shelf expression??? concept features two ???shelves??? located on top center and passenger side of the instrument panel. Not designed for holding objects when the Cube is in motion, they provide convenient spaces for placing keys, cell phones or digital music players when the vehicle is parked. The shelves can be personalized with accessory wood-like trim or shag carpeting. Cube???s ???Magic Rubber Bands,??? another clever Cube accessory item, are colorful rubber straps (red, yellow, orange or silver) that slip into cutouts on the door armrests to secure items such as maps, nametags, photos, towels or small stuffed animals.
???The interior concept is really about the Cube conforming to the users??? needs, rather than the other way around ??? you can put your favorite items anywhere you want, not where the vehicle tells you to,??? said Castignetti. ???The designers demanded that every aspect of the Cube interior be delightful, as well as functional.???
The Cube interior design also incorporates a series of subtle ???Water Drop??? concentric circles, inspired by nature and the calming way that ripples move outward from a drop in water. The circles can be seen in items ranging from the roof headliner to the cupholders to the climate control design.
A Wide Range of Available Features
Cube???s heating and cooling system provides quiet, efficient operation with easy to recognize and use knobs and switches. Other standard equipment offered on the 2009 Nissan Cube includes power windows with driver???s side one-touch auto down feature, Remote Keyless Entry system, power door locks with auto-locking feature, variable intermittent windshield wipers and intermittent rear window wiper, rear window defroster with timer, cargo area courtesy light and hooks, 12-volt power outlet and adjustable front seat belt upper anchors.Available Cube technology features include Nissan Intelligent Key?? with Push Button Ignition, Bluetooth?? Hands-free Phone System, Rockford Fosgate subwoofer with six speakers, XM?? Satellite Radio (XM?? subscription required, sold separately), Interface System for iPod?? and a rear sonar system.
The Cube interior is offered in two color environments, Wall Gray and Graphite. Wall Gray, available in a quilted suede-like fabric with special ???natural wave??? stitching only, is designed to create a relaxing contrast between the warm, light gray upholstery and warm off-black interior accents. The warm off-black Graphite interior, available in two cloth grades, provides a combination of relaxation and more traditional ???driving enjoyment??? attitude.
???The Cube interior is a great example of how an inexpensive, high value vehicle can be done well ??? quality design, quality materials and the features and equipment that the user needs with room for personalization, rather than forced customization,??? said Castignetti.
Unexpected Power and Driving Ease
Just as Cube has its own unique take on styling and interior design, the engineering team took a fresh approach to performance ??? creating a vehicle that is easy to drive and easy to handle in traffic.The emphasis for Cube???s performance credentials is squarely on fun-to-drive, rather than exhilaration. Cube combines an advanced 122-horsepower 1.8-liter DOHC inline 4-cylinder with a new-generation Nissan Xtronic CVT?? (Continuously Variable Transmission) for good acceleration response, smooth operation and fuel efficiency. Torque is rated at 127 lb-ft.
The MR18DE engine, also utilized in the popular Nissan Versa, is designed to be powerful and responsive, while also delivering excellent fuel economy. Fuel economy is projected to be over 30 miles per gallon Highway with the CVT transmission (actual EPA fuel economy unavailable at this time).
The Xtronic CVT, unlike conventional stepped gear automatics, operates as essentially ???one gear??? through use of a belt and two pulleys. By infinitely varying the working diameters of the two pulleys, the transmission eliminates the ???steps??? between gears, resulting in a smoother, more efficient operation by keeping the engine in its optimum power range under a variety of driving and load conditions.
Cube???s new generation CVT adopts a new CVT oil warmer for enhanced warm-up performance in cold conditions (reducing friction). It also includes an advanced Adaptive Shift Control (ASC), which detects the driving situation and style (economy, normal, sports) and communicates with the engine control ??? helping optimize both fuel economy and driving pleasure.
The 2009 Cube is also offered with a 6-speed manual transmission with a new shift control system, triple cone synchronizers (1st and 2nd gear) and reverse synchronizer system. The 6-speed manual is available with Cube 1.8 and Cube 1.8 S models.
???The Cube has a strong power-to-weight ratio, which combined with the advanced CVT, gives it a surprisingly spirited driving feel. Throw in the small turning radius, good outward visibility and the smooth suspension feel and you have the perfect formula for navigating through traffic with confidence and ease,??? said Castignetti.
Cube???s suspension combines an independent MacPherson strut front design with stabilizer bar with a torsion beam rear with integrated stabilizer bar. Its comfortable, flat ride is a result, in part, of the ???Ripple Control??? shock absorbers and the high body stiffness. Other standard equipment includes vehicle-speed-sensitive electric power-assisted steering, power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes and 15-inch wheels with P195/60R15 tires.
Cube???s long list of standard safety features includes the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), seat-mounted driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental air bags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection.
Cube also offers standard front-seat Active Head Restraints, Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS), along with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist (BA).
Three Well-Equipped Models
The 2009 Nissan Cube is offered in three well-equipped models: Cube 1.8, Cube 1.8 S and Cube 1.8 SL.A full range of dealer accessories allows buyers to expand their Cube world with items such as an illumination kit with 20 selectable colors, illuminated kick plates, rear cargo organizer, pet blankets, wheels, aero kits and more.
???We know that self-expression is important to many potential Cube buyers, so we???ve provided the room and accessorize to help with personalization,??? said Castignetti. ???However, Cube is far from a blank or empty canvas that buyers must equip on their own. Cube is a different kind of box than other vehicles on the market, with an abundance of personality right off the assembly line.???
Smart Simplicity
???Economical, affordable, functional and adaptable, the 2009 Nissan Cube offers an unmatched sense of ???smart simplicity.??? It builds on a Cube DNA of distinctive spirit and non-automotive style, and adds an enhanced level of humanistic charm and clever design,??? said Castignetti. ???If cars could talk, Cube would be likely to say, ???Nice to meet you.??? Come this spring, America gets its chance.???
Research In Motion's (RIMM) first touchscreen BlackBerry, the Storm, goes on sale Friday at Verizon Wireless. It's RIM's -- and Verizon's -- best hope to challenge Apple's/AT&T's iPhone this holiday season, so it has to be good.
Good news for RIM: It is good. Not as polished or sexy as Apple's (AAPL) iPhone, but a solid, capable gadget that should sell well to BlackBerry email users, long-term Verizon (VZ) customers, or anyone who's turned off by AT&T (T) or the iPhone.
Most important: This will help RIM and Verizon compete better with Apple and AT&T, which should help RIM and Verizon's subscriber growth and revenue.
Key points:
Pricing: Both phones are priced about the same -- around $200, though Verizon forces you go through the hassle of a mail-in rebate; and both cost about the same $70 per month for service. Verizon charges $10 per month extra for turn-by-turn GPS, which the iPhone doesn't offer yet. Verizon also charges $3 per month for "visual voicemail," which is standard and free with the iPhone.
Typing: RIM tried to set itself apart from Apple by building its entire touchscreen into a big button. So to type with its touchscreen, you have to press pretty hard, and "click" the keys. This offers a nice effect when you're clicking the large buttons on RIM's navigational menu. But for typing text, it's a hassle that actually forces you to slow down your typing speed. (We also wonder how this floating screen will work after a few months' worth of pocket lint has accumulated. Guess we'll get back to you on that.)
Email: We are gadget-savvy, yet we had a very hard time setting up our IMAP email on the Storm. In fact, we got so frustrated that we gave up, and just registered a new Verizon BlackBerry email address. (Seriously!) We figure we'll have time to set up our email later. Meanwhile, once you get some sort of email set up, it's as good as advertised. RIM's "push" email is truly instantaneous -- and you can search through your email, which you can't do on the iPhone.
Apps: The iPhone wins here by a wide margin. The Storm has some apps available, but few. And the ones we tried -- Facebook, Maps, games -- weren't nearly as good as those available through the iPhone App Store. If there's truly a next-gen mobile software platform war brewing here between Apple, RIM, and Google, then RIM really needs to work on this. But we're not sure how many people are buying phones for the third-party apps yet.
Web browsing: Decent on the Storm, but still much better on the iPhone. The Storm suffers, like all other phones, because it doesn't have the multi-touch "pinch" zooming that the iPhone has.
Internet/network: There's a reason people love Verizon's cellphone network: In our informal, unscientific tests, it's been much better than AT&T's. For instance, in our ground-floor Brooklyn apartment, we barely get any AT&T service on our iPhone, but Verizon's Storm gets a strong signal -- four of five bars. However, the Storm does not have wi-fi, which is a major omission. Why doesn't it? Verizon's official statement: "WiFi would add bulk, cost and is a drain on a battery so when we looked at that in context of our nationwide 3G network, we chose not to include Wi-Fi." Bad move, folks. Wi-fi is a huge asset when traveling abroad -- international data roaming is a ripoff -- or when you're in a lousy coverage area.
Design: The Storm's operating system and user interface are functional, but they doesn't show nearly the attention to elegance or detail that Apple's do. Scrolling with gestures is still much smoother and more natural feeling on an iPhone. And some things are just plain clunky on the Storm. For instance, you can't even read the entire text of many of the buttons on the phone's "home" screen, such as "SMS and M..." and "VZ Naviga..." and "Visual Voic..." And sometimes you just have to guess when you're supposed to use the "BlackBerry" button to pull up a contextual menu -- there aren't many cues. But if you don't care about design or elegance, or are already a BlackBerry pro, that won't matter.
Multimedia: We didn't get around to trying to play music or video on the Storm. Why not? We were told we'd need to find third-party software to use it with our Mac until RIM releases a new Mac media center app. We imagine if you have a PC, it's pretty easy getting your music and movies on the Storm, and that playback is functional. But we're curious where -- besides BitTorrent, of course -- you'll be able to get DRM-free TV shows and movies to watch on the Storm.
Camera: Better on the Storm, and shoots video. But still not as good as a real digital camera.
Bottom line: If we could buy any one phone in the world, we'd still buy an iPhone. If we were serious BlackBerry email users, or signed onto a long-term Verizon contract -- the carrier has 70-plus million subscribers -- we'd buy a Storm. (If we were BlackBerry email users and not under Verizon contract, and preferred a real keyboard, we'd opt for the Bold at AT&T.)
If you have any specific questions about the Storm, let us know in comments below or via email to dfrommer@alleyinsider.com. We'll try to answer as many as possible today. We'll also work on some video, including side-by-side browser tests to compare the Storm with the iPhone.
See Also:
Live CNBC On BlackBerry Bold: Mobile TV That Makes Sense
CNBC's Erin Burnett Gushes On BlackBerry Bold, Disses iPhone
BlackBerry Storm Coming Nov. 21 For $199, iPhone Not Toast
Of all the Guns 'N Roses stories, the "Rocket Queen" one is my favorite. When "Appetite For Destruction" was recorded, the moaning sounds on the album's closer (which might be my favorite G'N'R song, actually), were captured while Adriana Smith, a 19-year-old stripper who had been dating drummer Steven Adler, was having sex with Axl Rose.
To quote the Rolling Stone story from last year:
"Come on, Adriana, make it real," Rose barked, pausing mid-coitus. "Stop faking!"
On that warm weekend evening in the spring of 1987, engineer Vic Deyglio had set up a top-of-the-line vocal microphone to capture the sounds of Rose and Smith having sex ??? and at one point, he had to dash into the booth to adjust the mike as they went at it. "It was like a Ron Jeremy set in there," Deyglio recalls. Smith wanted to get back at Guns n' Roses drummer Steven Adler for cheating on her ??? and had always liked the singer better anyway. "I would do anything Axl asked me to do," says Smith, now a forty-year-old mom. "He's fuckin' magical."
The punchline comes at the end of course: Adriana Smith is now a 40-year-old mom. The other punchline is that Deyglio was credited on the album sleeve as "fucking engineer," which I suppose makes sense. Ah, Guns 'N Roses. Where have you been all these years?
Now that we're a mere five days from the release of "Chinese Democracy" — and what better day to release an album people have been awaiting for 15 years than the Sunday before Thanksgiving? — I've listening to a lot of G'N'R, and doing a lot of thinking. The first time I heard "Appetite," I was 12 years old and absolutely scandalized. (That controversial — and unlike most things that were controversial in the eighties, it's still pretty controversial — painting of the robot and naked lady got the album banned from my record store at the mall. I had to buy it at the pawn shop downtown.) Do you realize how much it friend my 12-year-old, center-parted, mulleted, farm boy brain to hear "get nothing for nothing/'cause that's what you do/turn around bitch/I got a use for you?" Heavens. This was definitely an album I had to hide from my youth minister.
By the time the "Use Your Illusion" albums came out, I was almost 16 and therefore tons more mature. As much as I enjoyed those records, they were short-lived; it wouldn't be long until I finally discovered "Nevermind," and after that, everything was different. But listening to the "Illusion" albums lately, they hold up better than I remembered. They still should be cut down to just one album, though. Here's my suggestion for the eight songs for that theoretically streamlined, face-melting record.
1. Bad Obsession. (the closest they ever came to the Rolling Stones, complete with cowbell)
2. Double Talkin' Jive. (just for the opening riff)
3. Dead Horse. (which led to what's still my favorite Deadspin headline of all time)
4. Civil War. (seriously, what is so civil about war anyway? Honestly, this song is pretty dumb, but I still love it.)
5. Yesterdays. (totally underrated song. This should have been a bigger hit as a single.)
6. Pretty Tied Up (The Perils Of Rock & Roll Decadence). (all hail Izzy. "Where's Izzy?")
7. Locomotive (Complicity). (the big "epic" song off "Illusion II" that doesn't feel completely bloated.)
8. November Rain. (the song absolutely seems ridiculous now, but it still doesn't compare to the video, which I want to be shown on a loop if I ever make it to heaven. I still can't get over the part where Slash is like, "Fuck it dude, I'm just gonna rock out this solo right in front of this here church." I just felt bad he didn't have a cliff to throw the guitar over when his solo was done.)
I highly recommend you watch that full video again before continuing with your workday. It's well worth it. It's crazy that anyone ever let Axl make that.
Anyway, in less than a week, the album will be out, and everyone will get free Dr. Peppers. The early reviews are positive, but at this point, does it matter? The success is that it's here at all. Axl is the same age as Herschel Walker, Star Jones, M.C. Hammer, Emilio Estevez, Hannah Storm, Clyde Drexler, Tom Cruise, Kool Moe Dee, Joan Cusack, Doug Flutie and William "Refrigerator" Perry. This album is here just so the rest of us can move on with our lives. (I mean, this album once had Shaq on it.) And I ask Axl not to make a video. I don't think I can jive this new, tubbier, dreadlocked, goateed Axl with the one who scared me as a child. I don't know anyone could.
That said: I absolutely cannot fucking wait to listen to this album. I suspect many of you still feel the same way. I'm Axl Shimmying in my chair just thinking about it.
32. Detroit Lions (0-10). I was actually at Bank of America Stadium to watch this shitshow Sunday, which was disappointing, because it wasn't all that much of a shitshow. (Neither Daunte Culpepper nor Kevin Smith looked half bad, actually.) Not that this has made Rod Marinelli feel any better; now even the local reporters are openly questioning whether or not he's lost his mind.)
"You're in this dark tunnel and you've got no way out," he said. "You're waiting for light, and you see that light, what do you do? What do you do?
You start digging and getting out. ... I've always believed you stay in the tunnel and you keep digging when you expect no light.
"You have the same faith when you expect no light. You have the same belief in what you're doing when you expect no light. ... It's dark and I'm going to dig through. My shovel is sharp and my pick is sharp and my will is outstanding."
Totally, man. Not even Jim Fassel would beg for this job.
31. St. Louis Rams (2-8). Sorry, but when you fall behind like 35-3 at halftime against a team coached by Mike "Droopypants" Singletary, you fall behind even your in-state "rivals" to the west. The best angle on that game was the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Bernie Miklasz's interview with Mike Martz and Isaac Bruce, who both showed sympathy for the Rams' current plight. That's right: Mike Martz is feeling bad for you. There's always a smaller fish, I suppose.
30. Kansas City Chiefs (1-9). What would be the equivalent of Herman Edwards turning around this franchise in the next few years? How about the ultimate irony of Rupert Murdoch being the last true believer in, and savior of, newspaper journalism. Bet nobody saw that coming. Read that link. He's absolutely right, which is even more frightening and astounding. Mike Royko is turning over in his grave.
29. Oakland Raiders (2-8). While searching for great Raiders blogs on the Web, I came across this outstanding one. It was updated once, simply with a picture of JaMarcus Russell and the following "post:" 12/02/07 - JaMarcus Russell made his NFL debut today as the Raiders defeated the Denver Broncos 34-20. Russell looked solid as he completed 4 of 7 passes for 56 yards. The rookie quarterback's first NFL completion was a bullet to Jerry Porter near the sideline. That's as good a time as any to stop.
28. Cincinnati Bengals (1-8-1). Because the Carolina Panthers have established themselves as a Super Bowl contender, it's time to make a switch in these rankings. The honor transfers from the Panthers to the Bengals. So: Palin Watch! It's somewhat comforting that, over the last few years, our politics and our celebrity culture has merged. (It certainly seems inherently democratic.) First you had those Barack Obama Shirtless On The Beach photos, also known as the "christ, that asshole is better than me at everything" shots. Now come the Sarah Palin beach shots. It's nice to know she had some time to relax at the Republican powwow last week; it must have worn her out dodging all the hitmen Tim Pawlenty hired. (And yes. I just made a Tim Pawlenty joke. This is what we've come to.)
27. Seattle Seahawks (2-8). When I first moved to New York in 2000, my roommate shared my obsession with playing NCAA Hoops on the Playstation. Neither of us had a lot of friends, so we played it a lot. We even picked 32 teams and played an ongoing tournament. The game had a glitch in it, though, and there was a shooting guard for Georgetown who consistently shot about 95 percent from 3-point range, no matter where he was on the court. Naturally, because I was fortunate enough to choose Georgetown, I fully took advantage of this bug and won the whole tournament with the Hoyas. When I won the last game, because I am lame, I taunted my roommate. With signature deadpan, he pointed out that we shouldn't forget that I won because of a programming mistake, so I should shut the hell up. That's kind of how I feel about the fact that the Buzzsaw apparently is going to win this division. Sure. It's great. I'm happy it's happening. But when you look at this division, it's because of a glitch. I shouldn't forget that.
26. Houston Texans (3-7). Yes, the economy is collapsing and we're all screwed. This is well established. Thankfully, it's still important to remember what really matters. The front page story of The New York Times Web site most of the day yesterday? The tale of a 12-year-old food critic. I love this town.
25. San Francisco 49ers (3-7). Mike Huckabee is lashing out! While flying to Charlotte this weekend on JetBlue, I caught part of "Huckabee," the Fox News show the presidential candidate hosts. Huckabee is always complimented on being a "telegenic" politician. After watching this show, I find this about as damning a statement about politicians as I can imagine. Huckabee hosts the show like he's filming it on a Camcorder on his back porch. He had Michael Strahan on as a guest, and Strahan had the look of a man who was doing a favor for a neighbor's son who's working on a project for his AV class. "Huckabee" is the political equivalent of "The Magic Hour." Discuss.
24. San Diego Chargers (4-6). Actually, continuing on this front: Norv Turner is the coaching equivalent of "Huckabee." Now that I think about it, feel free not to discuss.
23. Buffalo Bills (5-5). Any time the Bills and Browns play — both the closest the NFL have to "cursed" franchises — it's going to be particularly painful for someone. Why couldn't this game have been the one that ended in a tie? That'll do it for the Bills, obviously. I look forward to Vincent Gallo's son making a movie in 20 years about trying to track down and kill Rian Lindell.
22. Cleveland Browns (4-6). I got to Q-Tip for the magazine this week. He was performing "Go New York Go," his "theme song" for the Knicks this season. It'll be playing at every Knicks home game this year. Q-Tip's trying to make a comeback after about a decade since his last album. He's a very nice man, and his new record's plenty good, but I'll say this: Being the official songster for the Knicks can't be the most ideal way to bring yourself back into the public consciousness.
21. Chicago Bears (5-5). Before Sunday, I thought the Bears had a chance to go 11-5. Now I'm not sure they're going to win another game. That said, they could still win the division. Put it this way: For all the justified talk about how easy the Buzzsaw has had it while compiling their five-game division lead, they're 3-3 outside their division. The Bears and the Packers, two of the three division leaders in the NFC North, are both 2-4. (The Vikings, also "leading," are 3-3. So they have that.)
20. Minnesota Vikings (5-5). And therefore, they go here.
19. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-6). Sticking with the theme, the Jaguars are going to decide the NFC North this year: They play all three of the division leaders in the next four weeks. Is there anyone who will be even slightly surprised if they win all three?
18. Green Bay Packers (5-5). And now we wrap up the Norris. Of all the features I put together in this column, my favorite is the glance at the top story in the Green Bay Press-Gazette every Monday. Honestly, it's like if Mattoon had an NFL team. Today's winner? "An International Cooking Knight on Sunday at St. Norbert College brought dozens of students together to sample different foods and raise awareness of world issues." Sometimes I can just get lost in this newspaper.
17. New Orleans Saints (5-5). I find it astounding, really, that a man like Mark Cuban, who clearly knows more than anyone on earth about ethics — seriously, no one else even comes close — would be accused of insider trading. Fellow bloggers! All the hard work we put in to take down Cuban seems to have finally worked! Good work, gentlehumans. Whom should we go after next?
By the way, I live in terror that someday Lester Munson will write about me. That's a sign matters have gone very wrong.
16. Philadelphia Eagles (5-4-1). It is beyond comprehension that Donovan McNabb did not know the NFL had tie games. Could this possibly be true? I mean, McNabb has always seemed like a semi-intelligent guy. How would he not know this? He plays professional football, for crying out loud. And even if you're willing to grant that he might not have known going into the game, how could he have not known midway through overtime? With all the problems they've had with clock management and two-minute drills in the past, when you realize that Andy Reid didn't even tell his quarterback that the game could end in a tie, he's like the physics genius who puts his pants on backwards. Except it's looking like, in this analogy, Reid isn't very good at math either.
Seriously, I know everyone's already talked this to death. I still can't wrap my brain around it.
15. Miami Dolphins (6-4). This year's Oscar movie that I dislike that everyone else loves? Slumdog Millionaire I saw this movie on Friday and, as pretty as Danny Boyle makes everything, this is the dumbest, most trumped up "love story" I can remember. This is the cinematic equivalent of whippets. It's all brief sensation, and when it's over, you've done nothing but kill a bunch of brain cells. Every year, I get an American Beauty or a Crash, a film the rest of the planet inexplicably adores. Here's this year's version.
14. Denver Broncos (6-4). A reason to cheer against Denver-area sports teams? When one of them goes deep into the playoffs, Rick Reilly inevitably decides that he's not leaving his suburban Rocky Mountain strip mall and just writes a piece about How Crazy Colorado Fans Are About Their Team. Rick Reilly gives us all hope that, someday, we can make "ballplayer money" to tap out 800 words a week and occasionally host "Pardon The Interruption" poorly. A colleague of mine at New York sent out the best email this week. "It's fun to read every rick reilly column pretending it's a satirical McSweeney's Rick Reilly column.
'They called the fight that killed Barry Scott a mismatch, but Barry Scott vs. life was a mismatch, wasn't it?'"
That pretty much sums it up.
13. Baltimore Ravens (6-4). It's not really fair to drop them this much after a blowout loss to the best team in football — and it will be nice when Tennessee finally loses so we can all quit pretending that anyone's close to as good as the Giants are right now — but them's the breaks. Their schedule down the stretch is brutal. They'll be lucky to finish 8-8.
12. New England Patriots (6-4). Something I'd forgotten about Matt Cassel: He was actually second string at USC before losing out to Matt Leinart. The depth chart was Palmer, Cassel, Leinart. And now he looks like the best one. Fun factoid: Everyone kept claiming that Cassel's Week 2 start was his first start since high school. This is not actually true. He started one game for the Trojans at tight end. He did not catch a pass.
11. Washington Redskins (6-4). Sorry, you can't lose at home to a guy whose finger is almost falling off, and a team that looked like it has had just about enough of their owner's horrifying face screaming at them. By the way, whoever gets that final wild-card spot in the NFC looks like they're going to travel to the Pink Taco for the opening game. So, you know, plenty of seats available.
10. Atlanta Falcons (6-4). I have a sinking feeling that the feel-good story of Matt Ryan is going to end with four straight losses. We'll leave them here for now even though it'll anger Broncos fans, justifiably. But hey: Vick's going to be out of prison soon. Let's put him in Kansas City. God it would be fun to see him and Herm hang out.
9. Dallas Cowboys (6-4). It's worth noting that it has been more than a year and a half since Tank Johnson has been arrested. Way to go, Tank! Speaking of headlines I'm particularly proud of, here's an excerpt from "This is Why He's Not Known As Feelings Johnson."
Cops raided his house yesterday, supposedly looking for drugs (Tank has now been arrested three times since joining the Bears). They found "a cache of unregistered guns and assault rifles ??? some loaded," and we love that the Chicago Tribune added that ominous "some loaded" at the end, because otherwise we'd have no idea what people do with guns. They also found Willie B. Posey, who had two ounces of the ganga on him during the raid; he was busted too. Oh, and they also found Johnson's girlfriend and their two kids, around the guns and the ganja and the Willie Posey.
Posey was found dead only a couple of days later. Tank's a lot more boring when he's behaving.
8. The Buzzsaw That Is The Arizona Cardinals (7-3). Next week, if the Cowboys can beat the 49ers and the Buzzsaw win at home against the Giants, the Cardinals will clinch the NFC West. (They've beaten the 49ers twice, so there goes that tiebreaker.) The Cardinals aren't beating the Giants, of course, which is why I make the following unsolicited recommendation to Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunt: Start Leinart. Make up some fake injury for Warner. The Giants' pass rush is going to kill somebody this Sunday, and since we're probably not going to win anyway, why not let it be Leinart? Not only does it keep Warner safe, but Leinart's death will resolve any quarterback controversy over the summer. And it will make sure, finally, that Brynn Cameron's support checks show up on time. Think it over, Ken.
7. Pittsburgh Steelers (7-3). Yeah, still pretty worried about these guys. Meanwhile, I would like to remind you that Mike Lupica is still writing about politics. I hate it when people who made their name in sports start thinking they can write about pol— ... you know, forget I said that.
6. New York Jets (7-3). I'm officially a believer. (And have 400 words of sterling magazine copy to prove it!) Even if the Jets lose this week, and they probably will, they're probably making the playoffs now. Any guesses on which wild-card round playoff game Peter King will end up covering?
5. Indianapolis Colts (6-4). Now that Eliot Spitzer has crawled out of his hole — figuratively speaking! — to join the national conversation again, Politico and The New Republic have a suggestion: If Hillary Clinton is named Secretary of State, Gov. Paterson of New York should replace her with Spitzer. That would rule. Now that we've broken through with a black president, our next barrier to overcome is a presidential candidate who has openly had unprotected anal sex with prostitutes.
Yes we can! Yes we can!
4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (7-3). Now that Earnest Graham is out for the year, it's time for Cadillac Williams to make his triumphant return, before collapsing halfway through the second quarter and missing the next four seasons. To remind: At one point, at Auburn, the running backs were Cadillac, Ronnie Brown and Brandon Jacobs.
3. Carolina Panthers (8-2). For a story for Sporting News magazine — in case you don't know, I write a regular column (complete with stupid mugshot) in every issue — I sat in the press box for the Panthers-Lions game Sunday. It was the first time I'd sat in a press box in 12 years, and I have no desire to do so again for another 12 years. (The column is about how awful it is to sit in a press box.) Nobody bothered me, and, frankly, I don't think anyone in the whole stadium made a sound. It was like watching a football game in an aquarium. I kept tapping the glass to see if I could get the players to notice me.
2. New York Giants (9-1). I have learned my lesson from past years: It is an extremely poor decision to go to a bar in New York City and watch my Buzzsaw play the Giants in public. I'll be on the couch for this one. It makes it easier to hide the vomit.
1. Tennessee Titans (10-0). They have to beat the Giants this week, because losing to the winless Lions on Thanksgiving Day would be the 21st century equivalent of the Leon Lett play. It would be the one thing you and your family could find to talk about it. Let's make this happen.
Since platform pals the 2010 Ford Fusion and 2010 Mercury Milan get matching updates, it stands to reason their higher class sibling the 2010 Lincoln MKZ would be getting a visit from Ford's refresh fairies and these are the results. The MKZ gets Lincoln MKS in its Fusion with an appropriation of the new dual-nostril, waterfalling '38 Zephyr grille. As the top-range model in the lineup the MKZ wears the most lavish interior, the smoothest suspension, and the biggest price tag. Read through the press release below and decide for yourself, does the new MKZ provide enough of a upgrade to warrant the additional purchase price? You decide.
2010 Lincoln MKZ builds on success with new interior, more features, more quiet experience
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 ??? Customers who have come to equate Lincoln with elegant, modern design, unparalleled comfort, unrivaled features and top quality have still more reason to favor the brand: the new 2010 Lincoln MKZ mid-size sedan.
???The new MKZ improves on the success of the current vehicle with Lincoln???s new signature look, appointments that amplify and expand the Lincoln portfolio and a faster, more refined powertrain,??? said Mark Fields, Ford???s president of The Americas.
New for 2010, the MKZ features a new sport version with special sport suspension tuning with stiffer springs and larger stabilizer bars, 18-inch Euroflange polished wheels, unique grille, darkened headlamps, a decklid MKZ badge with a red ???Z??? and an interior with contrasting piping and unique appliqu??s.The new Lincoln MKZ also offers segment-exclusive features, including first-in-class Blind Spot Information System (BLIS???) with Cross Traffic Alert (CTA), which makes navigating traffic and parking lots safer and easier.
BLIS tracks vehicles in the blind-spot zones on either side of the vehicle using two multiple-beam radar modules behind the rear fenders. Indicator lights in the outside rear-view mirror on both sides of the vehicle warn the driver when a vehicle enters the defined blind-spot zone, extending from the side mirror to 10 feet behind the vehicle and 10 feet away from the vehicle.
CTA uses the BLIS radar sensors to alert the driver of approaching traffic while in reverse and backing out of a parking spot. The CTA tracks up to 65 feet on either side of the vehicle and warns the driver through both audible and visual alerts.
In addition to this new technology for mid-size sedans, MKZ offers SYNC, Next-Generation Voice-Activated Navigation, keyless entry, Easy Fuel??? capless fuel filler, THX-branded audio?? and adaptive headlamps.
The new MKZ also features Lincoln signature design elements, including the split-wing grille and thinner wraparound head lamps for a wider, sportier look. Its chamfered front fascia mirrors the MKS, with a sculpted hood and ridges flowing into the A-pillar. In the rear, which features a new decklid, LED taillamps accentuate the width of the car, separated by the Lincoln star.
The Lincoln MKZ???s presence is enhanced by 17-inch aluminum wheels, available 17-inch chrome wheels, and available 18-inch polished aluminum wheels, which are included in the Sport Appearance Package with sport-tuned suspension.
Inside, MKZ???s cabin reflects and even more upscale look, featuring more chrome, genuine aluminum and wood depending on the trim package, an all-new instrument panel, detailed touches including new welcome lighting, chimes, tuxedo stitching on luxury leather seats and Bridge of Weir leather.The world-renowned luxury leather from Scotland, pioneered on the classic Lincoln Continental Mark II and used on the MKS, wraps the MKZ seats. The MKZ leather is unembossed, allowing the natural beauty and character of the grain to shine through.
The leather is milled for up to 12 hours to ensure a buttery soft hand, and Bridge of Weir uses a chromium-free tanning process, which makes it easier to recycle.
???We???ve increased the luxury feel and improved on what was already a great interior,??? said Peter Horbury, executive director of Design, The Americas. ???We have a new interior theme with all-new primary touchpoints, complemented by new features and technologies that make the 2010 Lincoln MKZ stand out in the competitive mid-size segment.???
Additions or improvements to the 2010 Lincoln MKZ interior include:
Armrest clamshell storage
New instrument cluster layout with center speedometer
New door trim with 360-degree door handles
Redesigned center stack with high-mounted, Next-Generation Navigation system
Leather-wrapped steering wheel with real wood insert
Available perforated suede seat style
Interior schemes include Dark Charcoal or Steel Gray with Swirl Walnut accents, or Light Camel with Olive Ash wood accentsTechnology and information at your fingertips
The new Lincoln MKZ is more than just a pretty face and striking new interior. New technology features help Lincoln???s new mid-size sedan stand out, too. They include:
SYNC: The voice-activated hands-free in-car communication and entertainment system developed by Ford and Microsoft. The system fully integrates most Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and digital media players, providing customers hands-free cell phone and music selection capabilities ??? plus new 911 Assist and Vehicle Health Report provided with no monthly fees.
911 Assist: When a phone is properly paired, turned on and connected to SYNC, the system is ready to assist in placing a call directly to a local 911 emergency operator in the event of an air bag-deploying accident. The key advantage of SYNC 911 Assist is speed, as calls are placed directly to local 911 operators.
Vehicle Health Report (VHR): SYNC gathers relevant information from the major vehicle control modules and packages diagnostic data into a usable format in a matter of minutes. That data packet is sent to Ford via an 800-number automatically dialed using the customer???s paired and operable mobile phone.
Voice-Activated Navigation, which integrates several functions including voice recognition destination entry, climate control and SIRIUS satellite radio into one easy-to-use system, displaying them on an 8-inch touch-screen display. The navigation system???s text-to-speech function calls out street names while in route to a destination and reads incoming text messages when the system is linked to SYNC. The integrated DVD player is capable of reading CD-Audio, MP3 CDs, DVD, DVD-Audio and DVD-ROM (for digital map updates). A music jukebox function stores more than 150 hours of music. The screen even can be customized with personal photos.
SIRIUS?? Travel Link???, an industry-leading technology that, when combined with the voice-activated navigation system will provide users with real-time traffic data with accident and incident information, coast-to-coast weather data including current conditions and five-day forecasts, and fuel price information for over 120,000 gas stations.
Travel Link also offers sports scores and schedules and a listing of more than 4,500 movie theaters with movie times, theater addresses, movie synopses and more.
Reverse Camera System mounts a small camera on the decklid that is activated when the Lincoln MKZ is shifted into reverse, giving the driver a clear view behind the vehicle.The video image is displayed in the optional navigation screen on Lincoln MKZs equipped with that option or in the self-dimming rearview mirror vehicles without navigation.
Ambient Lighting System is displayed around the footwells, cup holders, door map pockets, door release handles, door and instrument accents and scuff plates ??? plus special ???Welcome??? and ???Farewell??? sequential lighting.
THX II Premium Certified Audio System with 5.1 Surround Sound, which is provided by a 12-channel amplifier that delivers 600 watts to 14 strategically placed speakers, including two subwoofers. A center channel speaker array features THX Slot Speaker??? technology, which allows for a wider sound image and better control of how music distributed throughout the vehicle???s acoustically engineered cabin. In addition, the system features a 10 GB hard drive jukebox, allowing Lincoln owners to store up to 2,400 of their favorite music tracks.Other features for the 2010 Lincoln MKZ include:
Rain-sensing wipers, which detect moisture on the windshield and are activated.
A new cabin air filter, which removes respiratory irritants and toxins caused by traffic and industrial pollution. Additionally, the air filter protects the HVAC/climate control system by blocking water and moisture.
Segment-exclusive Adaptive HID headlamps, which rotate according to speed and steering inputs to allow greater visibility around turns
SOS Post Crash Alert, which activates the horn, emergency flashers, automatically unlocks doors and turns on the interior/puddle lamps when an air bag is deployed. The system activates the emergency flashers when a spinout is detected.Faster engine performance, strong fuel economy
The award-winning 3.5-liter V-6 Duratec engine powers the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, delivering 263 horsepower and 249 pounds-feet of torque. The 3.5-liter uses a compact, lightweight dual-overhead cam valvetrain for peak power and smooth operation at high RPMs.This engine also incorporates intake variable cam timing to optimize valve timing for a smooth idle and an impressive broad torque curve with good power.
The six-speed SelectShift automatic transmission, which is front-wheel drive with all-wheel drive availability, is standard on the 2010 Lincoln MKZ. Powertrain performance is improved dramatically, with 0-60 mph times dropping from 7.7 to 7.1 seconds.
The engine ??? and the MKZ itself ??? is quieter. Every piece of sound packing was redone.
???The customer definitely should notice how quiet the new MKZ is,??? said Chief Engineer J.D. Shanahan. ???That???s important ??? especially in the luxury sedan buyers who perceive that quietness equates to quality.???
The MKZ engineering team also concentrated on the engine mount subsystem, finding the sound that balances sportiness and luxury, said Matt Hettenhouse, powertrain team leader.
A high 10.3:1 compression ratio and aluminum cylinder heads designed for high air flow and optimized combustion help complete the package, supporting the engine???s ability to deliver great performance and fuel economy, along with low emissions.
Unique to the 2010 Lincoln MKZ are re-engineered resonators on the air-induction system. ???They deliver the powerful, refined sound Lincoln MKZ customers expect,??? Hettenhouse said.
The six-speed transmission allows for lower early gears for better acceleration and taller high gears for better highway mileage. Downshifts are locked out to protect the engine from over-revving. The ???enhanced overdrive cancel??? mode locks out the fifth and sixth gears, allows shifts at higher speed for more engine braking and downshifts for ???grade assist??? functionality.
Unique tuning, too
The 2010 Lincoln MKZ was completely revised and uniquely tuned for ride comfort.
The team changed the rear suspension in the lower control arm control point to move the roll center closer to the center of gravity, which improved the ride-handling characteristics. A hydraulic variable-flow steering pump changes the flow rate at lower speeds to give better response, improving the turning circle and easier parking efforts.The Lincoln MKZ???s available all-wheel drive (AWD) system has been retuned for better traction and lower noise, vibration and harshness. The system uses an electro-mechanical clutch and employs two basic modes of torque transfer ??? pre-emptive torque (before wheel slip) and slip-control torque (after wheel slip). This dual system gives the driver confidence in any situation, while the suspension has been specially tuned to be more neutral when cornering.
???When the Lincoln MKZ accelerates, even lightly, from a stop on any surface ??? dry pavement, wet pavement, sand, gravel, ice, mud ??? pre-emptive torque is transferred to the rear wheels,??? said Jim Fritz, AWD product development engineer. ???As an added measure to control front wheel slip on slippery surfaces, slip control torque is added to equalize front and rear wheel speeds.???
The AWD system works in harmony with brake traction control to deliver more confidence to Lincoln MKZ customers. Ford???s AdvanceTrac electronic stability control keeps drivers in command as well.
???The driving experience has been improved, delivering a better ride and vehicle control,??? Shanahan said. ???Ride enhancements, a new sport package, new technologies, the signature Lincoln design and a strong quality story help the new 2010 Lincoln MKZ set a new standard in mid-size luxury sedans.???
The 2010 Lincoln MKZ is built at Ford???s Hermosillo (Mexico) Stamping and Assembly Plant and will be in dealer showrooms in spring 2009.
[Source: Ford]
They've gone and done it, the new 2010 Mazda3 Sedan has debuted ahead of its formal unveil at the LA Auto Show and it looks like Mazda has gone and finally used a pinch of that Nagare design language. Those bellyachers complaining the US never gets good-looking compact cars will no longer have anything to complain about as the new Mazda3 is a looker by any standard. It also has the goods to back those looks with a 2.0 liter four cylinder with 148 HP and 135 lb-ft of torque and a 2.5 liter four pumped up to 167 HP and 168 lb-ft of torque, both of which are mated to either a five-speed or six-speed manual transmission as well as a five-speed selectable automatic transmission. Can you hear us panting over here? There are complete details below as well as loving, slow-mo video of the car in motion.
All-new Mazda3 4-Door Sedan < North American Specification
All-new Mazda3 4-Door Sedan
The sports compact that delivers exhilarating driving pleasureDeveloped in line with Mazda???s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom philosophy of engineering
vehicles that are fun to drive, satisfying to own, and environmentally responsible, the
all-new Mazda3 is one of the most anticipated product launches at the 2008 Los
Angeles Auto Show.
The popular Mazda3 ??? the company???s best-selling vehicle worldwide ??? arrives as a
fully reengineered, completely redesigned, second-generation compact sedan
providing:??? A richer looking, more dynamic exterior design
??? Added driving enjoyment with improved performance in all areas
??? Progressive environmental and safety features
??? A higher level of standard and optional equipment
??? A level of sophistication above that available from any other car in the
segmentThe new Mazda3 is perfectly positioned for the rapidly changing auto market. It
offers a mix of quality, styling, power, dynamics and fit and finish that hits the bulls-
eye for today???s customers. In typical Mazda fashion, Mazda3 will offer standard and
optional equipment simply not found on other cars in this class ??? exactly what buyers
looking for more value and less bulk want.This 2010 edition stands on tall shoulders: the first-generation Mazda3 earned 90
major awards from expert critics and achieved a 1.8-million sales volume during its
five years serving customers all over the world. One in three Mazdas sold is a
Mazda3. Even at the end of its build life, the first-generation Mazda3 continued to
earn accolades as a leading consumer magazine recently named this car as one of
the most reliable compact sedans money can buy.Mazda3 Program Manager Yoshiyuki Maeda established ambitious goals for
Mazda???s most popular car line, ???We were determined to advance the Zoom-Zoom
driving experience to new heights because that unique feeling lies at the very heart of
Mazda. On the heels of the original Mazda3???s success, we aimed to again exceed
the expectations of customers all over the world by a wide margin. This meant
providing drivers with a sense of exhilaration whether they were in motion, seated in
the Mazda3???s cockpit, or enjoying its appearance from outside.???On what it takes to develop a true ???world car,??? Maeda added, ???The development
process began with careful study and identification of what features and performance
qualities would be needed. That initial phase ended with my conclusion that every
driving characteristic was eligible for improvement to reach our Zoom-Zoom goals.
Mazda engineering and R&D departments in Japan, Europe, and the US allEXTERIOR DESIGN
RECOGNIZABLE AS A Mazda3 BUT WITH MORE EXPRESSIVE AND DYNAMIC FEATURES
Chief designer Kunihiko Kurisu???s mission was to remain faithful to the Mazda3???s
existing visual identity while evolving its appearance with richer, bolder design
strokes. Infusing each subsequent new model with more emotional aesthetics is a
longstanding Mazda tradition. The key Mazda3 exterior design highlights are:
??? A move toward a more unified Mazda global ???family face???
??? A reinforced frontal identity which integrates the lower air intake with a more
emphatic and instantly recognizable five-point grille
??? To stress power and dynamism, major design elements focus on or flow
toward the vehicle???s central axis. At the front, fascia lines converge on the
center-point at the bottom of the grille. At the rear, the decklid???s surface has a
distinctive center crease
??? The compact cabin, high deck surfaces, and flowing C-pillar features were
inspired by the classic coupe profile, as seen on the 2009 MAZDA6
??? Hood and side surfaces are shaped to reflect light and physical surroundings
??? Subtle wedge-shaped and curving side character lines shared with other
Mazda models give the Mazda3 a strong sense of impending motion???like a
predator poised to strike
??? A new Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-leveling bi-xenon headlamps
has been added as standard on Grand Touring models. The Mazda3 is the
first compact offered for sale in the US with such an advanced lighting system
??? Exterior design elements contribute to the car???s function by minimizing
aerodynamic drag and lift while providing the powertrain, chassis, and interior
with adequate air flow for cooling and climate control
??? To supplement the four-door sedan introduced at the 2008 Los Angeles Auto
Show, a five-door hatchback Mazda3 will arrive laterINTERIOR DESIGN HIGH QUALITY, SOPHISTICATED, AND SPORTY
Inside, the new Mazda3 offers a sporty yet highly refined cabin. As if taut muscles lie
within, the dash sweeps dramatically from its center to the cabin???s sidewalls. The
large gauge cluster and center stack are positioned to tightly link the driver???s limbs
and senses to the car???s instruments and controls.The slant of the instrument panel optimizes operating efficiency while providing an
attractive focal point. Range of motion studies helped position all controls at an ideal
reach. Key knobs and switches are positioned at the same level as the steering
wheel and the shifter. The Interior of the 2010 Mazda3 is based on our Human
Machine Interface concept.All the information a driver needs is readily available in one concentrated area that
minimizes lapses of concentration on the road ahead. A Multi-Information Display is
positioned high on the center portion of the instrument panel to further minimize distraction. Navigation, audio, and trip computer information is provided in this handy
and easy-to-view location.Front seat cushions have been extended by nearly an inch compared to the outgoing
car in order to provide improved thigh support. Backrests are 1.4-inches taller and
recontoured for improved driving posture. For the higher grade models, the upper
side bolsters have been canted inward for heightened torso restraint during
aggressive cornering. A three-position memory function has been added to cars
equipped with power seats ??? another first for the segment, and not offered at any
price on any competitors??? compact car. Upon approach to the car, the left-front seat
automatically adjusts to the settings chosen by up to three different drivers by
recognizing the code of the key fob.To provide a top-quality cockpit appearance, the number of parting lines is minimized
and soft-touch surfaces show an elegant grained texture. An interactive lighting
system enhances the cabin???s ambience and sense of tranquility. Upon entry,
illumination rises in intensity in a programmed manner. Occupants are welcomed by
foot-well and door-handle lamps. Next, instrument cluster, center stack, audio and
climate controls brighten. When a driver or front seat occupant touches an audio or
AC switch, a change in illumination acknowledges that the command has been
received.Dual-zone automatic air conditioning is an available Mazda3 option. Other special
features that distinguish this car from mundane compact sedans are: a Bose 10-
speaker premium surround sound system, connectivity for cell phones and portable
media players, a dock for iPods, and Sirius satellite radio. An advanced keyless entry
system includes push-button engine starting. The Mazda3 options list also includes
rain-sensing wipers, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, and heated seats.Overall, the details included in the new Mazda3 all contribute to the sense of quality
in the car. This is a vehicle that offers equipment, fit and finish simply not found in
other vehicles in this price range and class, and helps perfectly position Mazda3 for
buyers considering a way to spend less and get more in this new economic climate.POWER TO GO
SPIRITED POWERTRAINS ENGINEERED FOR MAXIMUM ZOOM-ZOOM,
MINIMAL CONSUMPTION
The MZR 2.0-liter four-in-line engine delivers 148 horsepower at 6500 rpm (PZEV =
144 @ 6500 rpm) and 135 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm (PZEV = 132 @ 4500 rpm).
Aluminum block and head construction saves weight. In the interests of power and
efficiency, four valves per cylinder are operated by dual overhead camshafts.The new MZR 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is borrowed from the larger all-new 2009
MAZDA6. It shares the same construction features of the 2.0-liter engine while
upping output to 167 horsepower at 6000 rpm (PZEV = 165 @ 6000 rpm) and 168 lb-
ft of torque at 4000 rpm (PZEV = 167 @ 4000 rpm). Both engines employ advanced
electronic throttle actuation. Mazda???s exclusive torque base control technology
provides a highly linear acceleration response to every change of throttle pedal
pressure.
A slick-shifting five-speed and six-speed manual transmission as well as a five-speed
electronically controlled Sport-AT automatic transmission are available depending on
the model. Sport-AT offers enthusiastic drivers the control of manual gear
engagement with the convenience and comfort of a conventional automatic.Fuel economy is exemplary and was key to the vehicle???s development. The Mazda3
with 2.0-liter engine achieves 25 mpg in city driving with the manual transmission and
24 mpg with the automatic. The highway mileage with the 2.0-liter engine is 33 mpg
with either transmission. The Mazda3 with 2.5-liter engine also tops 20 mpg in all
conditions. Equipped with the six-speed manual transmission, its city rating is 21
mpg, rising to 22 mpg with the 5-speed automatic. The highway rating is 29 mpg
with either transmission. As the new Mazda3 is larger in every dimension ??? meeting
the requests and needs of customers ??? Mazda engineers worked hard to deliver a
vehicle that offers fuel economy on-par with the outgoing car.To refine the acoustic qualities of the Mazda3 powertrains, extra attention was paid
to tuning each engine???s intake and exhaust system. Resonance chambers were
implemented to quiet certain sound frequencies while reinforcing others, achieving a
well mannered yet sporty voice during acceleration. The Mazda3 2.5-liter engine is
equipped with dual tailpipes and specially tuned mufflers to reduce mid-range boom
and objectionable high-frequency noise at high rpm.Mazda3s certified to U.S. Federal exhaust emission standards are equipped with
catalytic converters employing advanced single nanotechnology. It is used to embed
individual particles of precious metals, which are less than five nanometers in
diameter, into the catalyst base material. This new development enables Mazda to
reduce the amount of expensive precious metals such as platinum and palladium by
70 to 90 percent without impairing catalyst performance. The catalyst is an important
part of Mazda???s efforts to reduce reliance on limited resources.SOUND FOUNDATION
INCREASED STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY AND REDUCED AERODYNAMIC DRAG
CONTRIBUTE TO Mazda3???S POISE AND PERFORMANCE
The 2009 MAZDA6 offers one of the stiffest unibody structures on any Mazda vehicle.
Lessons learned in developing that car provided major strides in structural stiffness in
the new Mazda3. A stiff unibody provides a smoother ride, more confident handling,
and improved agility with virtually no increase in unibody weight.Reengineered unibody joints and increased metal gauges in key areas help diminish
the transmission of road and powertrain noise into the passenger cabin. Suspension
anchor points are more substantial to provide the solid foundation needed to absorb
steering and suspension forces. In addition to welded attachments, suspension
towers are bonded to the surrounding unibody areas with structural adhesives. A
combination of welding and adhesives ??? also borrowed from the 2009 MAZDA6 ??? is
also used to increase the rigidity and collision deformation resistance at door opening
locations. The stiffer door design also improves the effectiveness of weather seals
that block moisture and noise from the interior.A Mazda engineering approach called Aero Flow Management was used to optimize
the flow of air around and through Mazda3 body openings. Even though the front grille appears larger than before, it???s actually 20-percent smaller to ingest only the
amount of air needed for combustion and cooling. An air guide attached to the front
bumper directs the flow through the radiator where it???s most useful. At high speeds, a
bypass flap opens to minimize cooling fan drag.Air flow along the Mazda3???s body sides was improved during wind tunnel testing by
placing deflectors near the tires and by carefully tuning the upper-forward corners of
the cabin. Subtle refinements in the shape of the A-pillars, exterior mirrors,
windshield wipers, and taillamps also contributed to the six-percent reduction in wind
noise levels. The 0.29 drag coefficient (Cd) achieved by Mazda engineers is one of
the lowest available in the compact class and highly beneficial to highway fuel
economy.CLASS-LEADING CHASSIS DESIGN
SUBTLE YET COMPREHENSIVE REFINEMENTS ADVANCE THE COMPACT
CLASS???S SPORTIEST MODEL TO NEW HEIGHTS OF DRIVING FUN AND FUNCTION
There was no need to reinvent the Mazda3???s chassis design because the first
generation achieved distinction as the best available in the compact class in terms of
driving enjoyment, handling, and all around poise. Subtle and tuning changes were
the order of the day.A rubber-isolated subframe in front supports the entire powertrain, the rack-and-
pinion steering system, and the lower attachments of the coil spring MacPherson
strut suspension. The independent multi-link rear suspension also uses coil springs
with one trailing arm, two lateral links, and one toe-control link per side. Four-wheel
power disc brakes with vented rotors in front and solid rotors in back are standard
equipment. Dynamic Stability Control and Traction Control are available on all
Mazda3s, standard on some trim levels.To improve steering feel, the electro-hydraulic-assist rack-and-pinion steering gear is
now secured at three instead of two attachment locations. The additional mounting
point allowed a reduction in the stiffness of the bushings that support the steering
gear to diminish the vibration transmitted over rough pavement.Resistance to body roll has been increased by recalibrating the monotube rear
dampers for tighter control and by switching to a new more substantial mounting
arrangement for the front and rear anti-roll bars. At the front of the new Mazda3,
lower control arms, the subframe, and mount bushings are all stiffer to improve both
steering response and cornering grip at the adhesion limit. A redesigned rear
suspension crossmember is both lighter and significantly stiffer, also for improved
handling.The most notable change to the braking system is a new vacuum booster that
provides a more reassuring response to light pedal efforts without disturbing the
highly direct and linear feel inherited from the first-generation Mazda3. Adjustments
to the electronic brake force distribution programming enhance vehicle stability
during mixed braking and cornering maneuvers. Structural changes to the unibody
mentioned above help improve not only the rigidity of the brakes but also their
linearity during high-g stops.
The MAZDA3 with 2.0-liter engine is equipped with 10.9-inch diameter front rotors
and 10.4-inch diameter rear rotors while the more powerful 2.5-liter MAZDA3 is fitted
with 11.8-inch front and 11.0-inch rear rotors.ACTIVE AND PASSIVE SAFETY SYSTEMS
THE NEW Mazda3 IS NOT ONLY FUN TO DRIVE, ITS HIGH LEVEL OF
MANEUVERABILITY IS ALSO THE BEST HEDGE AGAINST A COLLISION
Providing the Mazda3 driver with a better ability to avoid a collision by steering or
braking safely out of harm???s way is a fundamental aspect of Mazda???s product
development. Mazda???s engineers strongly believe that the best way to help protect
occupants in a crash is to engineer control systems in such a way that the crash is
avoided in the first place. Carefully tuned electro-hydraulic power steering, a highly
agile suspension system, and powerful disc brakes are standard Mazda3 features.
ABS, Dynamic Stability Control, and traction control are offered as optional
equipment.
Also, a new Adaptive Front Lighting System with self-leveling bi-xenon headlamps
has been added as standard on Grand Touring models. The Mazda3 is the first
compact offered for sale in the US with such an advanced lighting system.But in rare instances, a collision cannot be avoided. To cover these circumstances,
all Mazda3s are constructed with a Triple-H unibody design employing efficient H-
shaped steel reinforcements in the floor, side structures, and roof. This approach to
energy absorption provides crush zones that better protect occupants from the
impact forces sustained during rollover, frontal, side, front-offset, angled, and rear
collisions. Six airbags and active head restraints are standard equipment.ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP
THE Mazda3 ALSO DELIGHTS CUSTOMERS BY DEMONSTRATING REDUCED
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
Seemingly small changes can often deliver great gains. For example, the four-speed
automatic transmission was switched to a five-speed in 2.0-liter Mazda3 models, and
subtle aerodynamic improvements were made. The changes yielded a three-mpg
improvement (10%) in highway fuel economy.To reduce consumption of hazardous materials, the new Mazda3 uses no lead in its
fuel tank, wiring harness, or undercoating. Hexavalent chromium and cadmium have
also been eliminated from the bill of materials. The toluene emissions from a new
joint sealing compound is 90-percent lower than before. Mazda???s manufacturing
plants adhere to the strictest environmental standards. These are the invisible parts
of Mazda???s Sustainable Zoom-Zoom initiatives.
Efforts are underway to increase the scope of recyclable materials from 80 to 90-
percent when a Mazda3 reaches the end of its useful life. Molded plastic parts are
already labeled with ISO identification marks to facilitate sorting and recycling.
Fascias, interior trim, and the instrument panel are made of polypropylene for easy
reuse in those markets that offer it. Recycled material has been used to manufacture
new plastic moldings for the past four years at Mazda.
[Source: Mazda]
We got a sneak peak at the 2010 Ford Fusiona while back, but now on the eve of its reveal at the LA Auto Show, we can bring you the complete details on Ford's latest salvo in the battle for America's sedan-buying hearts and minds. The new Fusion brings sleeker styling, more fuel-efficient and powerful engines, and a higher quality interior. That says a lot as the original Fusion was pretty strong on most of those fronts to begin with. Complete analysis, details, and more pictures below.
Beginning at the front, Ford has drawn the now standard razor blade grille out above the trapezoidal headlights, visually broadening the front of the car while stretching it a bit further down in the fascia. This freshened grille is combined with lower bumper styling elements reminiscent of the Euro-only Ford Mondeo along with a character line along the hood which all combine to creates new faces that's substantial without being too flashy, though there's an awful lot of chrome up there. We're not so sure about the tail end which mimics the shape of the headlights on the flagship Ford F-150. It's not offensive, but the sleek nose with the geometric shapes on the rear don't jive real well for us, but we can deal with it.
Inside the interior gets materials upgrades in the dash, door panels, center console and the the new seats are a pretty comfy place to be. Cars equipped with the navigation screen get an upgrade to a huge eight inch touch screen with optional Sirius Travelink (which is the bees knees). Noise gets knocked down with the addition of an acoustic windscreen but pretty much everything else we like on the inside stays the same with a bit of a styling update.
On the mechanical side the Fusion is much improved, with upgrades to the four cylinder, the V6, the transmission and the suspension. The base inline four gets bumped up from 2.3 liters to 2.5 liters along with output moving up to 175 HP and 172 lb-ft of torque. That engine can be had with a six speed automatic transmission or a six speed manual (Let us take a moment to declare "Woo Hoo!). That I4 combo package gets at least five miles per gallon better fuel economy than the outgoing 2.3 liter.
The 3.0 liter Duratec V6 gets a one to two MPG bump in economy but more important it goes from 221 HP to 240 HP and 222 lb-ft of torque (250 HP on ethanol). That's nice and all, but hold onto your hats cause Ford is adding a Fusion Sport model to the lineup with a 3.5 liter V6 with 263 HP and 249 lb-ft of toque, that's going to be a spicy meatball. Unfortunately both of the V6's are only available with the six speed automatic. Suppose you can't have everything in life, at least the auto gets "Select Shift" so you can pretend you're a big boy with a real transmission.
All models begin pushing into a more modern age with electric power steering while the suspension gets tweaks to improve ride and handling and to deal with the differences from that electric power steering. The cars also gets new gadgets like blind spot detection, a voice activated nav system, rear facing camera and that "Easy Fuel" capless filling system.
All in all, the new Fusion is an impressive upgrade to an already good car and we'll get a closer look when it's unveiled at the LA Auto Show. We can't wait to get behind the wheel of the Sport model and that I4 with the six-speed to try out what will probably be a hugely entertaining passenger car.
NEW 2010 Ford Fusion offer leading fuel efficiency, smart new technologies
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 19, 2008 ??? Ford???s new 2010 Fusion is set to shake up the cut-throat mid-size sedan segment when it goes on sale early next year, bringing an all-new hybrid that will deliver the best fuel economy of any sedan in America, unsurpassed 4-cylinder gasoline fuel economy, more power, class-exclusive technologies including a blind spot detection and warning system and Ford SYNC, plus the kind of proven quality and reliability that has been recognized by the top consumer groups and magazines.
???With the new Ford Fusion, we are offering consumers more choice, even better fuel economy and the leading quality and reliability that they have come to expect,??? said Derrick Kuzak, Ford???s group vice president of Global Product Development. ???But that isn???t all ??? we weren???t satisfied with just matching the competition in the segment, we wanted to give consumers even more by delivering engaging driving dynamics and technologies that make the in-car experience more comfortable and connected.???
Designed to stand out
Ford???s attention to detail with the freshened Fusion begins with a new design that gives the car a look that is both sportier and more upscale as well as improved aerodynamics. The car???s newly designed front end, including a powerfully domed hood, and new headlamps, grille and larger fog-lamp area further enhance the sporty nature of the 2010 Fusion. Aerodynamic enhancements and new underbody shields further boost Fusion???s fuel economy.Overall, the wider, sportier look aims to make Fusion even more appealing to customers eager for a fun-to-drive mid-size sedan.
With all models, the interior design team created a more contemporary, technical look with metallic new finishes on the instrument panel that carry through on the center console, doors and steering wheel. The all new instrument panel is finished with a soft upper and lower skin and has much less hard plastic than Japanese competitors. The instrument panel displays and switches have also been updated with a contemporary iced blue lighting. A redesigned leather wrapped steering wheel with form fitting palm swells, a new shifter, and wrapped and padded armrests increase the Fusion???s sportiness and comfort at all key driver touch points.
The seats received a makeover, as well. The seat contour has been revised, with more side support and overall a more comfortable seat with smoother bolsters and more-textural inserts. The seats also feature contrasting stitching and leather inserts to give the Fusion even more attitude, befitting this mid-size sedan.
The gauge cluster has been designed with day time backlighting, a black lens, and 3-D elements to create a high tech jewel-like appearance, similar to a fine watch. Drivers will be greeted by a new ???welcome??? sequence that makes the Fusion seem as if it???s coming to life. Gauge needles sweep back and forth as the lighting and new chimes come on. The ambient lighting system offers the option of illuminating the front and rear footwells and front cup holders.
Fuel-efficient and more powerful powertrain lineup
Both the inline four-cylinder and V-6 engines are upgraded for both improved fuel economy and power. The standard Fusion S model equipped with Ford???s new 2.5-liter I-4 engine is expected to deliver at least a 5 mpg improvement versus the 2009 model on the highway, resulting in fuel economy that is at least 3 mpg better than the Honda Accord and 2 mpg better than the Toyota Camry.The 2.5-liter I-4 engine horsepower and torque also have been improved from the car???s outgoing 2.3-liter 4-cylinger engine, jumping to 175 hp and 172 ft.-lbs. of torque from the previous 160 hp and 156 ft-lbs. As a result, 0-60 performance improves by more than a second, now topping Camry and Accord.
The 2010 Fusion features an all six-speed transmission lineup, including for the new 2.5-liter I-4 engine, which is available with either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. The previous 2.3-liter I-4 in the Fusion was available with only five-speed transmissions.
The additional gear on the I-4 provides better drivability and performance as well as fuel savings, said Matt Hettenhouse, Powertrain Team Leader for the Fusion. ???The gear ratios and the overall span of the transmissions allow us to have a more-efficient and higher performing shift schedule,??? he said.
The first gear can be made a little deeper, which provides smoother acceleration. At the top end, a higher gear allows the engine to run slower in highway conditions, which also aids fuel economy.
Ford???s proven Duratec30 3.0-liter V-6 engine was also improved on the 2010 model, delivering highway fuel economy gains of at least 1 mpg city and 2 mpg highway. Horsepower in the 3.0-liter V-6 also increased to 240 hp and 222 ft.,-lbs, up from 221 hp and 205 ft.-lbs. in the previous version. The 3.0-liter engine is now Flex Fuel-capable and can run on E-85 ethanol, which delivers even more horsepower ??? up to 250hp. For maximum performance, the Fusion Sport features a 3.5-liter V6 that has 263 hp and 249 ft-lbs of torque on runs on standard unleaded fuel.
Front-wheel drive and on-demand all-wheel drive are available with models with a 3.0-liter engine and with the new Fusion Sport 3.5-liter engine. Both V6 engines are also available with SelectShift for individual gear control. The versatility in the powertrain systems creates a wide range of options for customers designed to fit every need.
The 2010 Fusion now comes equipped with Electric Power Assist Steering (EPAS) system on 2.5- and 3.0-liter models, improving the driving dynamics of the vehicle while delivering greater fuel savings because the steering system is operated by the electrical system rather than the engine. Additionally, EPAS provides customers with improved steering feel and reduced low-speed efforts that when coupled with a nearly 1 foot smaller turning circle for 2010 makes parking a cinch.
Fusion's front stay bar and rear suspension link geometry have been revised to improve steering, handling, and ride. The suspension springs, shocks, and sta-bars have also been retuned to take full advantage of the revised geometry and new steering system.
In addition to improvements in the 2010 Fusion???s steering, handling and improved brake pedal feel, the Fusion team also took a look at how to improve the comfort of the car, including reducing wind noise and road noise.<