The Chevrolet Colorado – A Smaller Yet Popular Truck

Author: Jeff Ryan
Source: articlemarketer.com

The Chevrolet Colorado hit the market for the first time in the year 2004, produced by Chevrolet. The vehicle falls under the category of mid-sized pickup trucks. The model was released as a replacement to the Chevrolet S10 and GMC Sonoma. The assembly plant of Chevy Colorado is located at Shreveport, Louisiana in United States and in Rayong, Thailand. The vehicle is based on the GMT 355 platform. It has the wheel base of 126 inches. The length, width and the height of the Colorado are 5260 mm, 1727.2 mm and 1651 mm respectively.

The Colorado offers both the automatic and manual transmissions. It also offers either four wheel or rear wheel drive with extended, standard and four door crew cab body styles. Most of the models come with 2.8 liter LK5 I4 engine, but most powerful 3.5 liter L52 comes with Z71 model on all four door versions. The engine generates 175 horse powers at the rate of 5600 rotations per minute and torque of 185 lb ft at the rate of 2800 rotations per minute.

The standard features in the vehicle include anti theft locks, braking and traction control, entertainment communications and navigation, exterior lighting, heating ventilation and air conditioning and interior lighting. The braking and traction control in the vehicle included with rear locking differentials and four wheels anti lock brakes. The entertainment system in the vehicle include pre programmed equalizer, FM / AM radio with scan, speed sensitive volume, seek and six speakers in total, MP3 player and CD player. It also contain radio data system and radio antenna.

The exterior lighting in the car include automatic headlights with automatic on and off, halogen head lights, dual cargo area lights and front fog lights.

The interior lighting includes front dual reading lights. As far as the interior design and decor is concerned, the passenger cabin is featured with color keyed carpet and leather steering wheel.

The safety features in the Colorado include rear and front outboard 3 point seat belts, driver air bag, side guard door beams, driver air bag and automatic locking retractor on seatbelt. The insurance institute for highway safety has given good ratings. The vehicle scored very poor rating in side impact test. But, it is being given a total face lift as well as revamp in terms of security features. In the year 2010, the Colorado is expected to come in fully redesigned face lift similar to the new Canyon.

Jeff Ryan creates quality articles to help you learn more on interest(s) you may have.

To find out more, check out http://chevroletcolorado.net/

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Citroen C2 – The True Value For Money!

Author: Geof Ryan
Source: ezinearticles.com

Citroen has had great success with its C2 model that comes with a quality engine of 110 hp c2 1.6HDI VTS. It is a diesel consuming car whose market price is lesser than £11,000, which turns out to be quite affordable than any of the car with the same specs. This car is a combination of a number of plus points including better fuel economy, low emissions and effective performance. The interior and exterior looks of the car is just like a sports car. This car looks like wearing a coat of another sports car namely Citroen’s VTS badge. The market price of VTS badge is around £10,995.

The torque laden C2 1.6HDI VTS is used in this car. Because of this great success of these petrol engines, the company later on produced its first diesel consuming supermini car namely the VTS insignia. Insignia has an engine power up to 110 hp with 1.6HDI engine. It has a manual gear box of 5-speed and its top speed is 120mph.

Insignia takes about 9.4 seconds to accelerate up to 0-60mph. The torque of this car is pretty good even at around 2000 rpm. Because of some of its special features like fun-to-drive handling, environmental friendliness and sporty looks, it performed well in the market just like the petrol version cars. Some more features that are included in these cars are four air bags, ESP system, standard ABS with EBD, 16” ‘cheetah’ alloy wheels, an alarm, and the air conditioning.

With loads of features, a trendy design and high fuel economy, the Citroen C2 simply turns out to be one of the best deals under the £11,000 mark.

To can a closer look at the latest Citroen C2 Pictures Here

There are many other red hot Citroen Car Pictures and wallpapers that you may download from this site.

The 3rd Generation 2010 Toyota Prius is Here!

Author: Kimme Richard
Source: ezinearticles.com

King Toyota presents the third generation Toyota Prius i.e. the much awaited 2010 model with upgraded amenities and features. King Toyota was established in 1968 and over forty years later, King Toyota is still known as one of the leaders in the automotive industry. King Toyota’s mission is to focus their entire organization in delivering outstanding customer service that exceeds the customer’s expectations. Hence King Toyota believes in getting the latest models of their customers’ favorite cars to them at the earliest.

Celebrated as the benchmark for cars of the future, the midsize third-generation 2010 Toyota Prius hybrid car will offer

• Better mileage ratings,
• Enhanced performance, and
• Innovative design features.

It will be quieter, roomier, and equipped with advanced standard and available features such as a moon roof with solar panels, four driving modes, Intelligent Parking Assist (IPA) and steering wheel touch controls that display on the instrument panel.

The Prius extends its record of continuous improvement in fuel economy. Using a combination of technologies, fuel efficiency was increased to an estimated 50 miles per gallon for the new Prius. A larger and more powerful 1.8-liter Atkinson-cycle, four-cylinder engine will power the new Prius. Being a hybrid, the Prius can run on engine alone, battery alone, or a combination of both.

The redesigned exterior of the new Prius has front and rear corners that are sharp, sporty and aerodynamic. Strong side character lines, rising from front to rear, define the glazed geometric shape. The solar powered ventilation system uses an electrically powered air circulation fan that does not require engine assist. This prevents the interior air temperature from rising while the vehicle is parked, making the cool-down time shorter when the driver returns to the vehicle, thus reducing the use of air conditioning.

When the driver touches the audio or info switch located on the steering wheel, a duplicate image is displayed on the instrument panel, directly in front of the driver. This system, called Touch Tracer, is the first system in the world to allow steering wheel controls to read out on the instrument panel. The ECO indicator on the Multi-Informational Display (MID) provides driver feedback and guides the driver to optimize their skills for lower fuel consumption.

Dynamic Radar Cruise Control system, using advanced millimeter wave radar, is an available option. The system also enables Lane Keep Assist, which helps the driver stay safely within the lane. Next-generation Intelligent Parking Assist features simplified settings to help guide the car into parking spaces. Bluetooth Technology and Navigation System are some of the many other options that add to the comfort and convenience features in the Prius.

For more information on this efficient vehicle, or to put your name on the Wait or Preorder List visit the website http://www.kingtoyota.com/campaign/third-generation-2010-prius.jsp

Car Care Tips for the Summer

Author: Ryan Draving
Source: isnare.com

Summer is almost upon us with Spring giving us a taste of the higher temperatures we can expect during the summer, so while we have a little more time before the full gloriously hot and sunny weather descends upon us here are some hints and tips to get your vehicle in shape for summer too!

Wax On and Wax Off
The sun can really damage your paintwork and a major car care tip is to make sure you apply a coat of wax every six weeks though many people either forget or think they are getting wax applications from a car wash.

Applying a coat of wax does not need to be hard effort with buffing machines available for less than $20 and which will take the misery of wax application and buffing the coat up to a great shine.

Refrigerate!

Manufacturers usually recommend running the air conditioner for 10 to 15 minutes each week in order to maintain the system but in practice many drivers simply turn the system off and then wonder why it is not working several months later when the warm weather comes around.

Check for vapor emissions from the vents when you run the air conditioning as this is a sign of low coolant and a refresh of the system is usually to be had very cheaply and will maximize your comfort while minimizing the cost to you.

Beware of the Heat

Car temperatures can climb to 160 degrees when parked in direct sunlight – enough to bake babies, children, pets and your laptop.

Park in the shade whenever possible and use a windshield cover to reflect the rays of the sun. Keeping the vehicle cool is only part of the equation though as the cooler your car is, not only will you have more comfort but you will reduce the rate of evaporation of the gas from the tank which is a direct cost saving to you.

In this light, make sure you ensure the gas cap is on tight and not just turned until you hear the “click” when you fill up – ensuring a tight seal, air tight if possible, will prevent evaporation through the gas cap generally and this is also a direct saving of your dollars.

Oil and Filter

Oil should be changed every 3,000 miles or every 3 months and in accordance with the manufacturer’s warranty and maintenance manual. Performing a simple oil and filter change will not only noticeably improve your car and engine performance but will also save you around 2% on your gas costs from better gas mileage.

Windscreen Wiper Blade and Screen Wash

There is nothing worse than driving down a hot, dusty road when a bug goes “splat” in the middle of the screen and then you put on the wipers and look for a jet of fluid to clean off the offending bug stain – except all you get is a dried set of streaks because there is no screen wash and the blades have seen their best through the winter.

Make sure you change the blades and top up the screen wash but again, follow the directions for summer driving as the concentrations differ between the seasons – in the summer you don’t need anti-freeze in the wash either so hold on that )this will save on corrosion on your paintwork too).

Ryan Draving is the VP of Empire Covers, a leading provider of car covers, truck covers, boat covers, and other vehicle covers. Empire Covers can be found online at: EmpireCovers.com .

The Kia Pro Ceed Offers Outstanding Value For Money

Author: Davidgiggs
Source: isnare.com

The latest Pro Ceed range from Kia is becoming increasingly popular due to exceptional quality and value for money. This 3 door hatch is making its reputation as being one of the most competitive vehicles in its class, all backed with an unrivalled 7 year or 100,000 mile warranty.

With many people feeling the effects of the downturn in the economic situation in the UK, finding a new car which provides high performance and reliability with affordable pricing is a necessity for many. Kia appear to have incorporated all of these aspects into their latest range of sporty looking cars without adding a sports car price tag.

The Pro Ceed 1.6 CRDi 3 includes a host of interior and exterior features which come as standard.

Inside the Pro Ceed you will find generous head room and leg space for the driver, front passenger and rear passengers. Kia have optimised space by including a storage box into the front arm rest. The rear seats fold to provide additional luggage space when there are two people onboard.

Six airbags are included in this model, along with standard central locking, electric front windows and electronically operated door mirrors. Part leather seating enhances the overall interior feel and appearance.

With rake, reach steering wheel and console which emulates the metallic trim on the door inlays the interior is stylish and comfortable. All models have a CD player and iPod compatible USB and AUX sockets fitted as standard.

Kia boasts Artificial Intelligence, AI, air conditioning in the top of the range models, offering complete internal temperature control for both front and rear seat passengers. They claim their AI air con prevents the unequal distribution of cold air which is seen in other cars.

The exterior has a sleek streamlined appearance with very snazzy black bezel lamps. All models have alloy wheels, with locking wheel nuts fitted as standard, along with body coloured bumpers and door handles.

All models have ABS braking system as you would expect from a car in this class and above. With top speeds of over 100mph on all models, all of the models in the Pro Ceed range are nippy and fast.

Road handling is reported to be excellent, with a comfortable ride across on most road surfaces. The Pro Ceed is the ideal about town or long distance car. Proving an average fuel consumption of over 58mpg this model provides a sporty look without being a gas guzzler. CO2 emissions are also low for a sports style car, 126g/km, comparative 18%, which puts it in the lower end of the CO2 tax bracket.

Kia request 12,500 interval servicing, combined with the very generous warranty the Pro Ceed takes a lot of beating for a car of this class. If you are looking for a new sporty looking car which is both economical and stylish the Kia Pro Ceed offers exceptional quality. Some approved Kia dealerships have some excellent special offers, which could save you hundreds of pounds off an already very competitively priced sporty 3 door hatch. Go along to your nearest approved Kia dealership and take a Kia Pro Ceed for a test drive to judge the quality and value for yourself.

Book a test drive to see the exceptional qulaity and outstanding value for money the Kia Pro Ceed has to offer at Charles Hurst Group.

2005 Honda Insight: America’s First Hybrid And Fuel Efficient Vehicle With Top Quality Honda Parts From Parts Train

Author: Jenny McLane
Source: isnare.com

Since it was introduced back in 2002, Honda Insight’s 1.0-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine and Integrated Motor Assist (IMA) motor-generator have been modified, and the CVT model’s final drive ratio is considerably lower, at 5.69:1 compared to 3.21 for the manual, to take advantage of the CVT’s wider-spread “gear” ratios.

Powered by Honda’s Integrated Motor Assist (IMA™) system that pairs a 3-cylinder VTEC™-E engine with an electric motor, the Insight comes fully loaded with dual front airbags (SRS), power windows, mirrors and door locks, a remote entry system, AM/FM stereo cassette, alloy wheels and much more.

Like a turbocharger, the IMA motor-generator is called to action when extra power is needed for acceleration and hill climbing, and feels like a low-pressure turbo. Unlike at turbo, the motor becomes a generator when braking or coasting, which recharges the nickel metal-hydride battery pack

The Honda Insight gains efficiency not only by its drivetrain but by light weight and clean aerodynamics. Curb weight is less than 2,000 lbs even with the CVT and air conditioning (standard on the CVT model, optional with the standard transmission).

Like other hybrids, the Insight’s engine stops when the car is stopped at a light or in traffic, contributing greatly to fuel economy. The Insight achieves EPA city/highway fuel economy ratings of 60/66 (manual) and 57/56 (CVT) mpg, respectively.

The 2005 2006 Honda Insight runs a 1.0-liter, I3, 67-horsepower, hybrid engine whose mileage specs are 61-mpg in the city and 68-mpg on the highway. Putting power to the wheels, Honda links a 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive as standard equipment. The Hatchback with A/C and CVT is equipped with a standard 1.0-liter, I3, 65-horsepower, hybrid engine whose fuel-efficient configuration achieves 57-mpg in the city and 56-mpg on the highway. A variable speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard.

Standard features include alloy Wheels, AM/FM Radio, Anti-Lock Brakes, Anti-Theft Vehicle, Cassette, Driver Air Bag, Keyless Entry/Unlock, Passenger Air Bag, Rear Defogger, Power Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Steering, Power Windows, Tachometer.

The Honda Insight has safety-cage construction with front and rear crumple zones, side-impact protection, dual airbags and antilock brakes.

You can now shop for discount car parts and accessories from Parts Train’s online performance or OEM Replacement auto parts catalog at http://www.partstrain.com/ShopByVehicle/HONDA . In stock are thousands of Honda parts for all enthusiasts. Find OEM Honda auto parts, new aftermarket parts, Honda performance parts, and more. From engine and radiator parts to filters, wipers, auto body parts and trim and a whole lot more, you will find everything to repair and maintain your Honda.

Best Condition Check-Up Of A Used Car: When Old Gets Better

Author: Gregory Ashton
Source: isnare.com

Today, buying a used car is as important as buying a new car. This is because the growing necessity and demand for cars is extremely important in an individual’s everyday life, especially if the daily activities require a lot of commuting and traveling.

So, buying used cars can be very feasible especially to those who have limited budgets. Actually, buying a used car, say, 2 to 4-year old cars will definitely save an individual as much as 25% to 50% when compared to buying a new one.

But, used cars are not created equal or they are not being maintained on the same level. Hence, it is important to know the proper way to choose used cars and the details to look for when buying one.

With all the many tips that are being offered these days, checking the condition of the used car is the best tip ever.

Here’s a list of the things to be checked before getting the car:

1. Exterior check

Buyers should check on the exterior portion of the car like the paint. Buyers should take note if there are any rusty places present on the exterior body.

Buyers should also make certain that the car is level when inspecting it. It should not sag to one side. If it does that is an indication of frame or spring damage. The tires should be well inflated and the lights should be in good condition.

Buyers should also check the other outer parts of the car like the disc brakes, the glass, the wheel rims, etc.

2. Interior check

It is best if the buyer inspects the interior portion of the car for things like its odor, the controls, the seats and the seat covers, and the pedal rubber. Everything should still be workable.

3. The air-conditioning unit of the car should be working well.

4. Trunk check

The trunk is the most neglected part of the car. Hence, it is important to know if the used car’s trunk area is still in good condition. It should never show any sign of rust accumulation and water entry due to holes and cracks.

5. The under hood test

The buyer of the used car should be aware of the wirings, fluids, belts, hoses, battery, and radiator of his car-to-be. It should not show any signs of damage, rust, or dents.

Best of all, before an individual finally decides on buying a particular used car, it is best if he or she will do a test drive first. In fact, it is one of the most important check-up in order to ensure the efficiency of the used car.

How To Shop For A Quality Radiator

Author: Laura Cain
Source: isnare.com

Did you know having a good quality radiator can prevent engine blow up. Many may not know this. Every vehicle should have a good radiator, how bad would it be if you’re stuck on the highway with a blown out engine. Think about that.

Radiators are used to disperse the heat that the coolant has absorbed from the engine. The radiator contains a vertical or horizontal tubing section that is connected between two tanks. They are designed to hold a large amount of water in tubes and passages that give it contact with the atmosphere.

Did you know while your driving your car, it creates enough heat to destroy itself? The radiators job it to protect it from damage, such as over heating. If you check on your radiator regularly you will be able to see if theirs anything wrong with it. As your car gets older it is more prone to problems.
If your radiator heats up the first thing you should do is turn off your air conditioning.

It will bring down the temperature of your engine. Then you would turn on the heater and set it on the highest temperature. This cools the engine down through the transfer of heat to the air. If you were in traffic you should pull over to the side and open your hood. It will help cool off the engine. You should then check the overflow tank coolant level. If it’s empty then the radiator can be low on coolant. You can then check the pressure of the system by wrapping a cloth round the upper radiator and squeeze it.

By checking your radiators from time to time you might be able to prevent your engine from blowing. Doing this little task can save you from a bigger head ache down the road.

Ford Windstar Recalls – A Complete Auto Review.

Author: Ernest R. Peterson
Source: isnare.com

Clearly, a less important concern – for the moment—than Ford Windstar recalls might be what Levine Breaking News reported March 14, 2006: an anti-gay/conservative Christian group are seeking retribution by boycotting Ford Motors…because Ford advertises in gay publications.

Tell me when did we give up the right to spend our hard-earned money on costly advertising, top-class merchandise, and any ^%$# publication we wish to read, write for, subscribe to, publicize in, or be a demographic target for? Okay. Hold on. Before I get all involved in who has what – ahem – RIGHTS, I should calm down, digress, and recoup to the more significant concern or issue: Ford Winstar recalls. There are several of them, that vary from safety and other recall issues (and usually getting increasingly lessened by year), but a mention here will suffice, as other investigations thoroughly cover by describing and explaining.

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 2003

-Seats: mid- and rear-assembly

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 2002

-Seats: mid- and rear-assembly

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 2001

- Mid- and rear-seat assembly
- Windshield wiper/washer motor
- Electrical system: air conditioner
- Air bags frontal sensor control module
- Accelerator pedal
- Seat belt assembly
- Trailer hitch

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 2000

- Structure: body/hood
- Vehicle speed control: accelerator pedal
- Glass: side- and rear-view mirrors
- Electrical wiring under dash
- Electrical system wiring; windshield wiper/washer motor
- Seat belts
- Trailer hitch

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 1999

- Structure: body/hood
- Hydraulic brake foundation: hoses, lines, piping, fittings
- Master cylinder
- Electrical: air conditioning system; interior/under dash wiring
- Windshield wiper/washer motor

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 1998

- Structure: body/hood
- Hydraulic brake foundation: hoses, lines, piping, fittings
- Front wheel suspension springs and coils
- Automatic trans/power train
- Exterior lighting
- Steering: gear box/shaft
- Child seat

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 1997

- Hydraulic brake foundation: hoses, lines, piping, fittings
- Front wheel suspension springs and coils
- Automatic trans/power train
- Exterior lighting

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 1996

- Structure: body/hood
- Automatic trans/power train/gear position indication
- Exterior lighting
- Hydraulic brake foundation: hoses, lines, piping, fittings
- Front wheel suspension springs and coils

FORD WINDSTAR RECALLS, 1995

- Structure: body/hood
- Electrical system wiring
- Hydraulic brake foundation: hoses, lines, piping, fittings
- Front wheel suspension springs and coils
- Alternator/generator
- Gasoline storage tank assembly

With all of or despite all the recalls, I am still a huge Ford fan—having brought up around, in, and looking at and listening to hot rods and trucks made by Ford Motor Corp.. What’s more, I would still fight for the right to sell, buy, advertise, drive, think about or talk about any damned material item I please. Go Ford!

Ten Quick Facts About Lpg Conversions

Author: Simon OShea
Source: isnare.com

Fuel savings

Whilst the Government carries on increasing tax duty on Petrol and Diesel, LPG has had its duty reduced twice during the last two budgets. Owners of fleet cars, taxis and other high mileage vehicles can save thousands of pounds on annual fuel costs by converting their cars to run on LPG

Costs no more for insurance

Many motorists believe that an LPG converted vehicle will be more expensive to insure. However, a survey carried out by the LPG Association (LPGA), essentially showed that this isn’t the case. The top 20 insurance companies all said they insure a LPG converted car so long as the conversion had been carried out by an LPG approved installer. Out of the 20, only two insurers advised they would charge a higher premium.

LPG is safer than diesel or petrol

According to the LPG Association (LPGA), the gas is substantially safer to use than petrol or diesel. This is mainly due to the fact that the fuel is stored in a robust fuel tank, which is tested to rigorous standards. LPG tanks also shut down the gas supply if you have an accident.

It has never been easier to fill up

There are now well over 1,300 LPG stations in the UK. Traditional petrol pumps work much in the same way as LPG pumps and all LPG stations follow pretty much the same way of doing things. Most LPG pumps have clear diagrams to help on your first visit and it’s impossible to put diesel or petrol in your LPG tank by mistake.

LPG is popular all over the world

Travelling in an LPG vehicle can almost halve the cost of travelling in a petrol-powered car. LPG is readily available in Europe, however it is more commonly known as Autogas or GPL.

Autogas also enjoys great popularity in Australia, The Netherlands, Italy, Serbia, Poland, Hong Kong and Korea. The former Soviet republic of Armenia may, however, be the world leader in autogas use.

Reduced maintenance levels

LPG is clean burning, contains no lead or carbon deposits and LPG car owners experience on overall reduction in engine wear and tear. Maintenance costs on spark plugs, pistons, rings and valves are also reduced.

Government grants available

Whilst the Government continues to reduce duty on friendly alternative fuels and offer Congestion Charge exemption they are also offering grants to car owners, fleets and businesses which consider conversion to LPG or other environmentally friendly alternative fuels.

Congestion Charges

LPG car owners can sometimes qualify for a 100% discount on Congestion Charges. Your car has to be an approved vehicle type in band 4 of the Transport Energy Powershift Register. Your vehicle must also be supplied or converted by an LPGA Approved supplier. Your vehicle must also meet the emission standards set by the Transport Energy CleanUp Register.

You can switch back to petrol at any time

LPG works in such a way that, at anytime you choose, you can change back to petrol at the flick of a switch. The switch is mounted on the dash board of your car and is used to switch between LPG and Petrol. Converting a car back from LPG to petrol is also a painless process and reputable dealers should offer this as part of their guarantee.

Environmentally friendly

Traditional fuels such as petrol and diesel are constantly taking the blame from the Government as the primary cause of low quality air conditions in the UK. Automotive vehicles emit a mixture of harmful gases including Sulphur Dioxide Hydrocarbons, Micro particulates and Nitric Oxides to name but a few.

Poor air quality, due to high levels of toxic emissions, imposes costs to society that are mainly related to health care costs. Health problems resulting from these emissions include Congestive heart failure, Respiratory problems and Bronchitis, which all relate to poor air quality.

LPG cars produce substantially less emissions according to research carried out by the Norfolk County Council. Individuals and organisations that adopt the environmentally-friendly alternative automotive fuels and technologies are not only generating cost savings for themselves but also for the larger society.