BMW 1 Series Review

The BMW 1 Series was launched in September 2004 with the brand slogan 'the only 1'.
The much anticipated BMW 1 Series Sport Hatch sets new standards for compact hatchbacks and offers drivers the unique proposition of a front-engine, rear-wheel drive car with the practical day-to-day benefits of a compact hatchback.

Undoubtedly BMW knows their target audience and the 1 Series is targeted at the well educated, young to late 20's - early 40's, who work hard but not too hard and love driving. Paradoxically everyone we have seen driving a 1 Series looks like they are affluently retired, but then we do live near to Budleigh Salterton in Devon.
The BMW 1 Series is a blend of prestige and performance at a reasonably affordable entry price. The split between corporate buyers and private individuals should be circa 45:50.The 1 Series comes with five doors, four engines (1.6 and 2.0 petrol engines and a 2.0 diesel engine with 122 bhp or 163 bhp) and three trim levels ES, SE and Sport. Prices range from £15,995 for the 116i to £21,360 for the 120d SE.
BMW's aim is to bring the 'Ultimate Driving Machine' to the the competitive lower medium segment which includes the Audi A3, Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf - attracting a whole new group of buyers to the BMW brand.
We tested the range topping BMW 120d Sport to find out if it is 'the only 1' for us.

Model Reviewed
BMW 120d Sport


Body Type
5-Door Hatchback
Colour
Quartz Blue Metallic


Performance ~ manufacturers figures


0 - 62 mph
7.9 Seconds
Top Speed
137 mph


Transmission
6-Speed Manual


Fuel Type
Diesel


Economy ~ manufacturers figures


Urban
36.7 mpg
Extra Urban
61.4 mpg
Combined
49.6 mpg


Insurance Group
14
Euro NCAP Rating
5


Warranty
3-Year unlimited mileage dealer warranty12-Year unlimited mileage anti-corrosion warranty3-Year paintwork warranty


Pricewhen tested on the 22/03/05
£ 21,260

2009 Jaguar XF Vehicle Overview

Introduction

There's a certain classy aspect to some things British -- the understated elegance of an English Tudor home, the BBC's Owen Bennett-Jones or even just an afternoon snack of tea and crumpets. Then again, not all English entities are quite so grand -- the Spice Girls or a rush-hour ride on a packed Tube train, anyone?
Thankfully, the 2009 Jaguar XF falls into the former category, but it also represents the legendary marque's new direction. Mirroring modern Britain itself, Jaguar now seeks to blend tradition with the latest style and technology. Before one goes on with the new, though, they have to jettison the old, and the midsize XF sedan replaces the S-Type, a car that never quite pushed all the right buttons. The unloved X-Type is also being phased out, leaving the XF to serve as both the brand's entry-level model as well as a key component for re-establishing Jaguar's premium status with a younger set of buyers.
The Jag XF rides on a stiff new structure that shares some suspension components with the sporty XK. Its crouching stance is emphasized by a coupelike roof line that sweeps to the tail, fastback style. Some may argue that in profile, the XF looks like the Lexus GS series, and that the nose, with its wide-awake headlights and squarish grille, is somewhat quirky. But overall, most would agree it's a handsome sedan that impresses one more in the steel than in photos.
As part of Jaguar's upscale push, you'll only find a V8 under the hood. There's nothing really new here, as the engines and transmissions are shared with the XK. Even so, 300 or 420 horsepower is nothing to complain about, and Jaguar claims that even the less potent engine is able to shoot the XF to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds. The XF's suspension is tuned slightly more for a plush ride with respectable cornering ability than for hardcore apex clipping, but still easily qualifies for sport sedan status.
Of course, as a sport-oriented midsize luxury sedan, the 2009 Jaguar XF is entering a pretty tough segment. The list of competitors is full of luminaries, including the Audi A6, BMW 5 Series, Infiniti M45, Lexus GS 460 and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. Even James Bond would have a tough time infiltrating a group like this. And most of these models offer something the XF doesn't -- the option of all-wheel drive, an advantage for those who have to deal with slippery weather conditions.
It's a minor setback, however, and overall we think the new Jaguar XF stands proud in this segment, which is something its dodgy predecessor never could. It deserves a place on your "to drive" list if you're considering a luxury car. It's got the performance and coddling features, and its undeniable presence could very well make Jaguar cool again.
For Pricing information, see our Pricing page.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Jaguar XF is a midsize luxury sport sedan that comes in three trim levels: Luxury, Premium Luxury and Supercharged. The Luxury comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless ignition, a sunroof, leather upholstery, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, auto-dimming mirrors, full power accessories, 10-way power front seats and a split/folding rear seat. Rear parking assist, Bluetooth connectivity and a premium sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack are also standard.
The XF Premium Luxury adds 19-inch wheels, heated 16-way power front seats, upgraded leather, a navigation system with voice activation, and keyless ignition/entry. The Supercharged adds a more powerful engine, 20-inch wheels, larger brakes, an active suspension (dubbed "CATS"), a power rear sunshade, cooled front seats, bi-xenon headlights, front park assist, a rearview camera and an upgraded audio system with six-CD changer and satellite radio.
Stand-alone options include a heated steering wheel and active cruise control, while most of the upper trims' features can be had on the lower ones via various packages.
For more Style information, see our Compare Styles page.
Powertrains and Performance
The Luxury and Premium Luxury are powered by a 4.2-liter V8 that makes 300 hp and 310 pound-feet of torque. Power flows to the rear wheels via a six-speed automatic that can be shifted manually with steering-wheel-mounted paddles. Jaguar claims a 0-60-mph time of 6.2 seconds for these models.
The Supercharged features, you guessed it, a supercharged version of that V8 that makes 420 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. It should be enough to trim the 0-60 sprint down to 5.1 seconds.
For more Performance Data, see our Specifications page.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control, active front head restraints, front side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags are standard on all XF models. The Supercharged adds a blind spot monitor to the list.
For more Safety information, see our Safety page.
Interior Design and Special Features
Unlike most cars in its class, the Jaguar XF rejects the cockpit-style interior theme for a more spacious environment. The seats are well-shaped and come up high enough for proper thigh support, while the soft armrests are located for use, not style. Not that the XF is lacking in the latter area -- in Jaguar tradition there is plenty of finely finished wood trim, as well as modern handsome metallic accents and cool blue lighting for the instruments.
When you enter the XF, the start button mounted in the console pulses red, as if to indicate the pulse of the lively machinery you're about to awaken. After you fire up the engine, the unique dial that controls the transmission rises out of the center console into the palm of your hand. There's a touchscreen interface for the audio, climate and navigation system, so unlike many of the XF's competitors, no console mouse is required. Although it's a sleek sedan, the rear doors are wide for ample access and there are nearly 38 inches of rear headroom and 36.6 inches of rear legroom. The trunk is also quite roomy at 17.7 cubic feet.
For more Interior Features information, see our Specifications page.
Driving Impressions
With either engine offered in the 2009 Jaguar XF, acceleration is swift and smooth, with perfectly timed up- and downshifts furnished by the six-speed auto. Use the paddles and the automatic blips the throttle on downshifts, just as an expert driver with a manual gearbox would.
Underway, the XF exhibits a smooth and hushed demeanor but there's a stronger connection with the mechanical soul of the car than expected. There's barely any nose dive when the brakes are applied, for instance, and the level of communication between car and driver when cornering is impressive. Rest assured, though, that comfort is still of paramount concern. The XF's refined ride can take you 300 miles and deliver you still feeling fresh after your journey.

2009 Honda DN-01 Review

If the variety of motorcycles at Daytona’s Bike Week could be distilled into one machine, one could make a case that the Honda DN-01 would be the result.
V-Twin engine? Check Feet-forward riding position? Check. Attention-grabbing appearance? Check. A dab of sportbike? Check.
The DN-01 is a peculiar concoction: two parts scooter; one part cruiser; and one part sportbike. And if you have to ride a scooterish motorcycle during Bike Week, this new Honda fits right in by standing apart, as we found out by cruising A1A and Main Street around Daytona last week.
Say what you will about purity, historical relevance, aesthetics or bling, riding during Bike Week is all about getting attention from fellow riders and bystanders. Trundling along down Main at a sub-walking pace on a Chevy V8-powered motorcycle makes no other sense. And in this respect, the DN holds its own in Daytona.

First seen in prototype form in late 2005 at the Tokyo Motor Show, the DN-01 (Dream New Concept 1) was described as a “comfortable sports cruiser.” Now having reached production, Honda calls the DN a “crossover.”
Whatever you call it, the DN-01 (could we please have a name with some personality…?) makes a splash wherever it’s ridden. Its arresting design hurt some necks in Daytona, as it caused hundreds of neck-snapping double-takes.
The DN defies immediate classification. Its shark-like nose brings to mind a futuristic sportbike and is its strongest styling asset, but its considerable length gives it a laid-back cruiser profile. It looks like a mega-scooter, too, but it’s lower than your typical touring scooter. A single-sided swingarm makes room for the stainless-steel exhaust and provides for easier access to the semi-adjustable rear shock
Riding the DN couldn’t be easier. It’s powered by a 680cc, 52-degree V-Twin borrowed from the European-market Transalp. Although it has roots to the late-1980s Hawk GT, the SOHC, 4-valve motor is thoroughly modernized with a sophisticated fuel-injection system using dual 40mm throttle bodies and high-tech 12-hole injectors.
In terms of Bike Week qualities, the DN’s deficiency is revealed after thumbing the starter button – this has got to be the most docile V-Twin exhaust note in history. The EFI’s auto-enrichment system ensures quick rideability. Then things get weird.
A rider subconsciously reaches for a clutch lever that isn’t there. This “crossover” is meant to appeal to less-experienced riders, so it is fitted with an automatic transmission. Called HFT (Human Friendly Transmission), this is a continuously variable, hydro-mechanical design that is a big leap in technology above the simple belt-drive CVTs (continuously variable transmission) in scooters. Honda says its HFT provides comparable performance and efficiency to a manual gearbox.
The HFT combines a hydraulic pump and motor that transmits power to the rear wheel by a conventional shaft drive, and the system seamlessly changes drive ratios in response to rider inputs. There are two fully automatic modes: D (Drive) is for maximum economy and for those in no hurry, while S (Sport) offers more immediate and snappy response. Maximum enjoyment is found by using the thumb-activated push-button manual mode that simulates a six-speed gearbox.

2009 Ducati Streetfighter Review

“Spanish bombs in Andalucía, oh mi corazon.” – The Clash, Spanish Bombs
With apologies to one of the greatest bands ever, this time around in Andalucía it was an Italian bombshell that was stealing hearts. Ducati’s new Superbike-based Streetfighter truly is the bomb.
Unlike nearly every naked bike we can think of, Ducati has created a stripped-down, super-sporting roadster without excuses – no tuning for torque, and no dumbed-down suspension.
The Streetfighter’s engine is ripped nearly unchanged from the 1098 sportbike, differing only in shorter intake tracts that knock off a scant 5 hp. The result is a claimed 155 hp at 9500 rpm, aided by a midrange-inducing exhaust valve. The use of the 1198’s Vacural cast-aluminum crankcase shaves nearly 7 pounds from the engine.

It’s like 100 liters of adrenaline,” Giulio Malagoli, the Streetfighter’s project leader, told Motorcycle.com about his latest creation. Malagoli is also the inspired mind behind the recently launched Monster 696 and 1100 air-cooled models. The new Streetfighter is now the most radical of Ducati’s naked bikes, replacing the discontinued Monster S4RS that measures up 25 hp short of the SF’s 1099cc Testastretta Evoluzione powerplant.
The standard Streetfighter retails for $14,995, and it boast a fully adjustable Showa suspension and lightweight magnesium for the headlight bracket and clutch and cylinder-head covers - magnesium is about 30% costlier than aluminum but is about 20% lighter, says Malagoli. The higher-end S version’s V-Twin powerplant is in an identical state of tune, but it includes top-shelf Ohlins suspension, lighter forged-aluminum Marchesini wheels and tasty carbon fiber for the front fender and cam-belt covers.This is quality stuff, but it’s not enough to justify the $4,000 price increase of the S model. Helping it earn its lofty $18,995 MSRP are the most sophisticated electronics offered on any sportbike. DDA is the Ducati Data Analyzer, which records various channels such as lap times, throttle and gear positions, and the speeds of the engine and bike – it’s an extra-cost option on the standard Streetfighter.But the S’s piece de resistance is Ducati’s traction control as used on the recent 1198 superbike. It first softly retards ignition timing, but if slippage is still detected by the wheel-speed sensors, the fuel injection will cut out to varying degrees to inhibit wheelspin. There are eight settings on the DTC, ranging from “It’s either raining or you shouldn’t be on a bike like this” to “Let’s spin up the rear tire on our way to victory circle.”

The Test

The rain in Spain may fall mainly on the plain, but we found out the wind can howl like a banshee in the Spanish hills. We were greeted at the fabulous near Ronda, Spain, by 50-mph gusts that shook our confidence but didn’t dampen our enthusiasm for this most potent of naked bikes.The Streetfighter’s riding position lives up to its name, with a tapered-aluminum handlebar placed sportily forward yet several inches higher than the 1098/1198 model. There’s more distance between the seat and its footpegs than the old Monster S4RS, but that’s mostly because the seat is way up at 33.1 inches. This is surprisingly tall for a bike without undertail exhaust pipes, but the Streetfighter’s lean and unfaired design forced the tailsection to contain the electronics, battery and exhaust valve servo. The SF’s fuel tank is an inch shorter than the 1198, allowing a rider to get closer to the front wheel, and its extra height isn’t a problem with the taller bars.
The handlebar is graced with new, compact switchgear. Flicking down the kill switch covers the starter button which is meant to emulate the “trigger catch” of a fighter plane. The instruments are contained in a tidy gauge pack that includes a wealth of information, including a lap timer and a low-fuel tripmeter for the 4.4-gallon tank. Its mirrors are fairly useable, even if they aren’t very pretty.
Pulling out of the pits at Ascari reminded me that the ’Fighter uses a dry clutch system, as it proved to be a bit grabby when taking off from a stop. Toggling through the transmission requires considerable effort in relation to a Japanese literbike, but gearshifts are nonetheless positive. Dialing on the throttle reveals the massive torque (a claimed 87.5 ft-lbs at the crankshaft) offered by the booming V-Twin that easily lofts the front wheel in the first two gears.
We knew, even before riding the Streetfighter, that its engine was going to impress – we fell in love with it when we first tested the 1098. And the note from the stacked twin mufflers is satisfyingly deep and soulful. The major unknown element prior to our ride was its handling qualities.
The SF uses a frame very similar to the 1098/1198 series, but it differs substantially in the steering head area. While the 1198’s fork is set at a moderately sporty 24.5-degree rake, the Streetfighter’s is kicked out at a slower-steering 25.6 degrees. The amount of trail correspondingly is lengthened from the 1098’s 94mm to 114mm. Additionally, a 35mm longer single-sided swingarm extends the wheelbase from 56.3 inches to 58.1 inches.
With these specs rolling around in our heads, we were worried this relaxed chassis geometry might result in a piggish-steering motorcycle. Not to worry.

GM stakes sales on design and environment

GM unveiled a raft of new cars for the Middle East market today, on the pre-show press day at the Middle East International Motor Show, including two hybrids and a Camaro.

The Tahoe Hybrid starts production next month in the US, although there is no firm date for its appearance in this region or price. The car follows the classic Tahoe design with a six litre V8 engine, but Terry Johnsson, Vice President, GM Middle East Operations, said it has a 'fuel efficiency comparable to a family sedan'. He claimed a fuel efficiency improvement of 50 per cent. Also making its Middle East debuts were the 2009 Chevrolet Aveo 5, which GM said has been completely reworked, the Corvette inspired Camaro Coupe, which goes into production next year, an Escalade designed exclusively for this region and the GMC Terrain, a 4x4 making its first showing anywhere in the world. The most interesting car on its stand though was the Volt, an electric car that's capable of travelling 60km on a full charge with zero emissions. However, when pushed, the company admitted that it was zero emissions whilst travelling, but that there was a carbon cost to charging the car in the first place, because most homes take their electricity off the main grid. Speaking to AME Info, Michael Duhraine, chief engineer for advanced hybrid systems at GM, said the company was working with battery manufacturers to improve the distance the car can travel. And he said alternative ways to charge the car are being investigated for the future, such as solar energy. 'That's solar on homes to charge the car and whether you can put a solar array on the car,' he said. This he said would not provide a full charge, but may help keep the battery running for longer. Once the electricity runs out, the car is charged by a three litre generator, pushing the distance to 1,000km. The engine uses 4.7litres per 100 km of distance. The company said the first generation engine will run on petrol, but that it is being designed so that in future it can run on different fuels, depending on the main source in the region the car is in. Ed Welburn , vice president of global design, said of the Volt: '[This is a] game changing concept that we really take very seriously.' A production date for the car hasn't been set, but it is expected to be around 2010. Welburn, a lifer at GM who first contacted the company when he was 11 years old, said that most - if not all - of its cars would eventually be rolled out as hybrids. A key trend, he said, was improved aerodynamics. 'I believe we are moving into an era of drag reduction,' he said. He added: 'A great car begins with the proportions. That takes a great working relationship between the designer and engineer. Get that right and it makes it a lot easier to drive the body shape.'

2009 Chrysler 300 Review

Introduction
The Chrysler 300 was a game-changing vehicle for Detroit's sickly No. 3 brand when it debuted in 2005. With distinctive styling and Mercedes-sourced underpinnings, the 300 was a well-deserved hit that brought rear-wheel drive back into the American car buyer's mind after years in exile. And with available V8 power, it was plenty fast.
After significant interior and equipment changes last year, the 2009 Chrysler 300 gets even more upgrades and additions. Most notably, the 300C's 5.7-liter V8 gains variable valve timing, which boosts horsepower by 19 (now 359). Thanks to cylinder deactivation, fuel consumption remains acceptable given the ample amount of power available. The available all-wheel-drive system has also been upgraded with a specialized active transfer case. This automatically disconnects the front axle to improve fuel economy on the highway by up to 1 mpg, while also providing the better performance and handling afforded by rear-wheel drive. Wheel slippage, low temperatures or a certain number of windshield wiper passes re-engage all four wheels. The driver can also manually manipulate the system.
We've always been fans of the Chrysler 300, and its continuous improvements only make it more attractive. There are certainly other full-size sedans to consider, though which ones depend on which 300 you're considering. The base LX's engine is slow and inefficient, and we advise passing on the trim level. Compared to the 300 Touring and Limited, the Ford Taurus offers more maximum passenger and cargo space, while the Toyota Avalon offers more luxury and refinement. The high-performance 300C and SRT8 versions have fewer rivals. However, those seeking any 300 for its rear-wheel-drive performance capabilities should also take a good look at the impressive Pontiac G8. That said, the 2009 Chrysler 300 remains a solid choice for a large sedan.
For Pricing information, see our Pricing page.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2009 Chrysler 300 is a full-size sedan available in LX, Touring, Limited, 300C and SRT8 trim levels. All but the LX and SRT8 also come in an all-wheel-drive version. The base LX comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, full power accessories, a tilt-telescoping steering column, eight-way power driver seat, 60/40-split rear seat and a four-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player and auxiliary audio jack.
The 300 Touring adds a larger V6 engine, automatic headlamps, foglamps, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, leather-trimmed wheel and shift knob, and satellite radio. The optional Comfort/Convenience Group adds heated front seats, power passenger seat, power-adjustable pedals and auto up/down front power windows. The 300 Limited adds a comfort-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, the Comfort/Convenience Group, trip computer, steering wheel audio controls and a six-speaker touchscreen-operated stereo with six-CD changer and 30GB hard drive for digital music storage (known as uconnect Tunes). When equipped with all-wheel drive, the Touring and Limited gain a larger fuel tank, 18-inch wheels (Touring), a five-speed automatic transmission and upgraded brakes.
The 300C gains a V8 engine, auto-dimming and power-folding heated exterior mirrors, driver memory functions, power-adjustable steering column, upgraded leather upholstery, rain-sensing wipers, remote ignition, "Tortoiseshell" interior trim and a universal garage opener.
Optional on all but the LX is the Protection Group, which adds front side airbags, side curtain airbags, auto-dimming rearview mirror and Bluetooth phone connectivity with iPod integration (uconnect phone). The 300C gains rear parking assist with this package. The Limited and 300C can also be equipped with a rear-seat entertainment system with Sirius Satellite TV, and a voice-activated navigation system with real-time traffic (uconnect GPS). The Luxury Group for the 300C adds adaptive cruise control, HID headlamps and heated rear seats. The 300C Heritage package adds 20-inch wheels and the same performance-tuned steering, suspension and shocks found on the Dodge Charger R/T Daytona, plus a bunch of the above luxury features. A sunroof is optional on all but the LX.
Of special note is the Walter P. Chrysler Executive Series long-wheelbase package available on Touring and 300C trim levels. It adds 6 inches to the standard wheelbase to increase rear seat legroom. It also includes the Comfort/Convenience and Protection Groups, plus the rear-seat entertainment system, uconnect Tunes and uconnect GPS. On the 300C version, the Luxury Group and eight-speaker surround sound system are included.
The 300 SRT8 is equipped similar to the 300C Heritage, but comes with an even more powerful V8, Brembo performance brakes, special stability control calibration, unique exterior trim, a sunroof and an integrated rear spoiler.
For more Style information, see our Compare Styles page.
Powertrains and Performance
The base 2009 Chrysler 300 LX is only available with rear-wheel drive and a 2.7-liter V6 that produces 178 hp and 190 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic is standard. Fuel economy with this engine is 18 mpg city/26 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.
The Touring and Limited trim levels come standard with rear-wheel drive and a 3.5-liter V6 good for 250 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is 17 city/24 highway and 20 combined. All-wheel drive is optional. Fuel economy with AWD is 15/22/18 mpg. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard with the rear-wheel-drive 3.5-liter 300 sedans, while a five-speed automatic comes with all-wheel drive.
The Chrysler 300C gets a 5.7-liter V8 with 359 hp and 389 lb-ft of torque. It delivers 15/23/18 mpg regardless of rear- or all-wheel drive. A five-speed automatic is standard. The 300 SRT8's 6.1-liter V8 cranks out 425 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. Fuel economy is 13/18/15 mpg.
For more Performance Data, see our Specifications page.
Safety
The Chrysler 300 LX doesn't get much in the way of standard safety equipment, but antilock brakes and stability and traction control are at least optional. They are standard on all other trim levels. Front seat side airbags are optional on all regular Chrysler 300s, while full-length side curtain airbags are optional on all but the LX and standard on the SRT8.
In National Highway Traffic Safety Administration crash testing, the 2009 Chrysler 300 earned a perfect five stars for driver and passenger protection during frontal impacts. It also earned a highest-possible "Good" rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal-offset crash testing. In government side crash testing, the 300, when equipped with the front side and full-length curtain airbags, received four stars for driver protection and five stars for the passenger. The IIHS, however, tested a 300 without the side airbags and gave it the worst rating of "Poor."
For more Safety information, see our Safety page.
Interior Design and Special Features
The Chrysler 300's interior features a simple but elegant layout that benefited from last year's new instrument panel, center console design and upgraded surfaces. It is now a much nicer cabin, but given the 300C's price, some may expect something nicer. Controls are relatively simple, while loads of available high-tech features bring nearly endless entertainment options. Cabin dimensions are generous in all directions -- even more so in the extended-wheelbase models, which of course offer more rear legroom by far than any primary competitors. Unfortunately, the 300's signature low-profile windows result in compromised visibility -- particularly for shorter drivers. Also, the 300's trunk capacity measures a relatively modest 15.6 cubic feet.
For more Interior Features information, see our Specifications page.
Driving Impressions
After a generation of mostly tepid front-wheel-drive family sedans, the Chrysler 300 has led the return to rear-drive dynamics that Americans took for granted decades ago. Based on a good deal of Mercedes-Benz technology underneath, the 2009 Chrysler 300 is far more impressive in its driver control and handling than the rear-drive, full-size behemoths of yore. The Limited and 300C's new comfort suspension tuning should appeal to those buyers hunting for a comfortable cruising sedan, while the new 300C Heritage package and its tauter suspension plays the opposite game for those hunting for handling to match the big Hemi engine. Still, no 300 can quite match the thrilling yet refined Pontiac G8 GT -- not even the wild 300 SRT8.

2010 Chevrolet Camaro Review and Prices

What We Know About the 2010 Chevrolet Camaro
As it was then, so it is now. The Camaro, born more than 40 years ago as Chevrolet's reply to the pioneering Ford Mustang, is coming out of retirement (since 2002) for a new fight with the namesake ponycar. It's set to bow for 2010 in two coupe models--V6 and V8. The V6 cars will be offered in LS or LT trim, and the V8 is dubbed SS. The LT and SS models will be available with a RS appearance package that includes HID headlamps with integrated halo rings, a rear spoiler, specific taillamps, and 20-inch wheels. Convertible versions join up about nine months later. Chevrolet recently confirmed these plans after splashy concept previews at the 2006 and '07 Detroit Auto Shows. Recalling the days when the Big Three were the big players, Dodge revived its Nixon-era Challenger (1970-74) for 2008.General Motors decided to bring back Camaro when the redesigned 2005 Mustang fast proved a hot seller. But Mustang sales have lately cooled, despite the addition of potent pump-primers like the Shelby GT500. Blame record gas prices and renewed public concern over what thirsty vehicles do to the environment. Ford Motor Company's many well-publicized travails are another factor. All this leads some industry-watchers to think the new Camaro could end up chasing a vanishing market, especially as GM still has troubles of its own. Nevertheless, the project is a go. And though GM has reportedly hit the pause button on several other new rear-wheel-drive cars, it's unlikely to delay this one after two years of making so much noise about it.Convertible or coupe, the reborn Camaros will be much like the concepts, only less exaggerated. Factory installed wheels, for instance, will be no larger than 20 inches max, versus the show cars' 21s and 22s. Trim and paint will be toned down a bit, but Chevy has said they are offering 10 body colors. Otherwise, styling will be the concept's blend of today's Chevy Corvette and cues from the 1969 Camaro, resulting in a more-modern look than either the current Mustang or Dodge Challenger. The new Camaros should also hew closely to concept dimensions. That means about 7.5 inches more wheelbase than the 2002 models, a similar amount trimmed from overall length, and about 5.5 inches more width. These changes should produce a roomier four-seat cockpit, though space in back (and in the trunks) will remain tight. Also per ponycar tradition, the new Camaros will offer a budget-friendly V6 engine and two performance-oriented V8s. Models using the V6 employ GM's newer 3.6-liter twincam design with direct injection, as found in the Cadillac CTS. The V8 will be the 6.2-liter base-Corvette engine, but in two flavors. Manual transmission models get the LS3 version that is good for an estimated 422 horsepower. When equipped with the 6-speed automatic, the V8 is dubbed L99. The L99 is fitted with GM's gas-saving Active Fuel Management cylinder-deactivation, and should put out 400 ponies. If gas prices keep rising, GM's Bob Lutz has suggested the company may look at powering the Camaro with turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. If Chevy decides to offer the four, it might not be available at the start of production. In addition, the latest buzz says an ultra-performance Z28 version might appear for 2011. It would use a version of the supercharged 6.2-liter "LSA" V8 from the 2009 Cadillac CTS-V with horsepower in the 480-500 range. At launch, all Camaro engines team with six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmissions. Four-wheel ABS disc brakes, traction control, and stability control will be standard on all Camaros. Coupes will have front thorax side airbags and curtain side airbags. Ragtops may come with jumbo seat-mounted front side airbags providing both torso and head protection.We said "ragtops" for a reason. For the sake of affordability as well as tradition, Camaro convertibles will retain a folding soft top. A trendy hideaway hard-shell roof would have cost too much for GM's price target, and might have caused reliability and production headaches. As on the concept, the top powers up or down from a flip-up panel behind the cockpit-no need for a fiddly flexible tonneau to look your best, as on the last drop-top Camaro.