2008 BMW M3 Sedan

The new M3 follows in the footsteps of its predecessors by being the ultimate high-performance upgrade to the already-excellent BMW 3-series line-up. If you want the best of the best in a car with a less-than-six-digit price tag, the M3 continues to be that car. Where the newest M3 departs from the path is in the source of its power: rather than hotting up the BMW straight-six engine, as in the older M3s, this version installs a downsized V8 version of the BMW V10 engine, which is not only more powerful than the previous M3 engine, but lighter to boot. Rated at 414 horsepower, the engine revs easily to an 8400 rpm redline, so the 295 foot-pounds of torque is more than enough to take the car from zero to 60 in a claimed 4.7 seconds. We didn't have a stopwatch, professional driver, or closed course but found no reason to doubt that claim. In our week-long test, we drove the sedan version – four doors and no carbon-fiber roof – with a straight-up six-speed manual transmission. It didn't have the Technology Package or navigation system, which also meant no iDrive knob to contend with. The M3, like the rest of the 3-Series line, received some minor changes for 2009. We'll be sure to test a 2009 as soon as they become available. What's it up against? It isn't so much what the M3 is up against, since it has been the benchmark for medium-priced four-passenger performance cars for over two decades. Instead, the question more properly is: what currently is trying to knock the M3 sedan off the top of the hill? Looking at the question from that perspective, some of the standard suspects include the Audi S4, Lexus IS-F and, of course, the fantastic Mercedes-Benz C63 AMG, which we tested earlier this year. Any breakthroughs? There's no question that the big breakthrough on the new M3 is that incredible four-liter, V8 engine with double Vanos variable valve-timing technology that enables the car to meet emissions requirements while delivering incredible performance. Don't be deceived by the relatively low torque rating. This engine gives the car an almost schizophrenic personality. At low rpm, it's capable of loafing quietly in traffic like a Toyota Avalon. But if you get an open stretch of highway or clear track ahead, downshift, prod the accelerator and watch the tach swing up to wow or redline, whichever comes first. The g-forces will put a grin on your face. You're not going to average much better than 16 mpg in mixed use driving in the M3. That means you'll have to fork over $1,300 to at purchase to keep the car out of gas guzzler jail. But at this echelon, that's probably not a major factor for most buyers. The only optional equipment on our test car was three-level electronic damping control lined up on the console with the on-off switches that control the electronic throttle and steering response and the dynamic stability control. That is all the control you need to drive it like that Avalon when chauffeuring your wife's maiden aunt, or put it into taut tail-out drifts when track conditions permit. Sure, the optional Technology Package would allow multiple-screen graphical control of engine, throttle, shocks, and stability control response but, except for owners with the skills to test for a professional racing team, we suspect the benefits of this additional flexibility are more likely to be realized in chat room arguments than on the track. How does it look? The M3 in its sedan guise is a worthy successor to earlier BMW performance sedans, managing to convey its power in subtle ways that the initiated will recognize, while not screaming "track rat" to the world at large. Doors, fenders, and roof line are common to other 3-Series cars, but a subtle bulge in the bonnet, flanked by two functional vents, provide clues to the V8 lurking underneath. In addition, the lower front fascia is pure M3, with its functional brake duct openings and black mesh oil cooler grille. There won't be any question when a driver sees that fascia in the rear-view mirror that it's time to give a passing signal, or move out of the fast lane. When the M3 does pass, the car doesn't make as much of an impression – the spoiler is almost invisible and the quad tail pipes could easily be those of a Honda or Toyota – but since it isn't likely to be in sight for very long, the rear quarter aesthetics don't really matter much. The optional 19-inch wheels with low-profile tires on our test car did look pretty trick against the dark blue paint, but we wouldn't have been unhappy, nor would we have compromised handling performance, if the car came with the standard 18-inch wheels to reduce unsprung weight, and their slightly thicker tires to provide cushioning against deteriorating California freeways. And inside? Because BMW still spurns the very thought of any dashboard ornamentation – wouldn't want to distract the driver, after all – there isn't much to say about the view forward beyond paying respect to its functionality. Controls are neatly presented, and the white on black gauges, illuminated at night in soft submarine red, echo that straightforward design. We also liked the simplicity of the basic interior accessories. By avoiding the Techology Package, we were free of the extra screen stuck in the center of the dash board and the chrome knob competing with the gear shift for attention in the center console. Everything we needed was right there, and there was nothing that wasn't necessary. Another design element we appreciated is that BMW has become more liberal in recent years in trim choices for its pure-performance automobiles. The rich Interlagos Blue metallic paint of our sedan was nicely complimented with Bamboo Beige leather, while we noticed other M3s at the press launch with lighter exterior colors counterpointed by deep red and butterscotch interiors. We suppose one could elect black on black, but why should the car look so restrained just to emphasize its performance capabilities? Here's another point where we depart from the conventional wisdom of high-performance: A four-door sedan is a more practical package for an automobile than a coupe. If you aren't going to use your performance car for anything other than personal errands and track entertainment, then why not go all the way and buy a two-seat roadster? In our view, the sedan is ideal, making it convenient to use to stow packages, dry cleaning, or whatever, even when you're not hauling more than one other passenger. Certainly performance isn't going to suffer. In our week with this car we found any number of reasons to be grateful that BMW has returned to making a four-door sedan (BMW did offer a four-door M3 in 1997 and 1998). Rear seat space wasn't overwhelming, but then no one expects that a car with a bulge in the hood is going to double as a limousine. Nevertheless, our rear seat passengers had no complaints during evenings out in town. But does it go? With the M3's well-earned reputation, it almost seems silly to ask "does it go?" You better believe it does. With each generation, M3 power and responsiveness has improved, and handling and braking capabilities have kept pace. We could describe the feeling of taking the car out on a country road for a little fun, or what it felt like to drive the coupe version at Laguna Seca, but Mark Elias did that well in his review in February. Instead, what we'd like to note is the comparison to some of the new cars that are coming out now. All-wheel drive, electronically controlled "sway bars" that modulate the shock absorbers to keep the car level in corners, and variable torque controls do deliver results if all you care about is how fast you can get around the corner or around the track, and don't care to invest any time actually learning to drive a high-performance car. For us, the appeal of the M3, especially in the manual-transmission version without the high-tech handling controls, is that it is becoming almost retro, with more in common with a vintage race car than with much of the other automotive magic being introduced today. Sure the car is a little tightly-wound in everyday use, but that's like a wink and a nod to what we could be doing, if we weren't going to the grocery store or office. Why you would buy it: The M3 is still king of the hill in mid-priced performance automobiles, and the basic sedan package with manual transmission is a perfect way to enjoy the capability of the new V8 engine without buying or paying for any more than you need. Why you wouldn't: If the enjoyment of high-performance driving isn't number one on your priority list, there are lots of other BMWs, or even other sedans, that will give you the same feeling of quality without compromising on ride comfort. What we drove: base price: $53,800. As tested: $61,450. Interlagos Metallic paint, $475; Cold weather package, $1,000; Premium package, $1,900; 19" alloy wheels, $1,200; Electronic damping control, $1,000; Gas guzzler tax, $1,300; Destination and handling, $775.

 

Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Land Rover pass on 2009 Detroit Auto Show

The global economic downturn is affecting other things than the availability of credit, the unemployment rate and the fate of the world's largest automaker. We had already heard that Suzuki was planning on skipping this year's 2009 Detroit Auto Show in January (Porsche passed on the 2008 show), but the small Japanese brand has now been joined by a few heavyweights that compete at the very high end of the automotive spectrum. It turns out that Ferrari, Rolls-Royce and Land Rover are all three not attending this year's Detroit show, presumably because they don't have anything exciting to announce and the money could be better spent elsewhere. What's surprising about this trio of top shelf brands missing out on Detroit is that we always thought luxury goods were least vulnerable to a crappy economy. Sure the middle class and poor get poorer, but the super wealthy usually have a few million stuffed under their mattresses to see them through. Thus, if not less expensive Land Rovers, at least Ferraris and Rollers would still be bought in decent numbers. Apparently that's not the case, as even the most expensive of autos are seeing sales slow and if they don't have a new production vehicle or concept car to show, then a trip to Detroit is the vacation nobody wants to take. [Source: LA Times, Photo by STAN HONDA/AFP/Getty]

 

Popular Science names Best of What's New in Auto Tech for 2008

What are the best innovations that the global automotive industry debuted in 2008? Popular Science has just picked its favorites and revealed the Best of What's New awards for the year that just was; um, is. The grand prize goes to the Nissan GT-R for its technical brilliance, astonishing performance and relatively attractive pricing. No real complaints there, though we'd be remiss if we didn't at least mention that the new Corvette ZR1 in the same breathe, which PopSci fails to do. Green technology holds down three of the 11 positions, with two coming from Ford for its capless fuel fillers and EcoBoost engine tech, though the latter won't arrive until 2009 and Ford can't be credited with pioneering the combination of turbocharging and direct-injection on small displacement engines. Honda takes up a slot with its largely unobtainable hydrogen fuel cell-powered FCX Clarity. Also winning awards from the techy Mag are BMW's Google Maps-infused MyInfo service and the speed recognition system from the Euro-spec 7 Series, the DARPA-winning Tartan Racing Boss, Audi's Dynamic Steering, the Wide-View cameras from Lexus, Infiniti's self-healing clearcoat and the Speedshift transmission from Merdedes-Benz. Click the source link to read about each honoree, and let us know in the comments if you think PopSci missed an automotive tech marvel from 2008. [Source: Popular Science]

 

Honda Accord Tourer

No subtle hints here — the name tells you exactly what this design study is for. We liked it a lot — sportier, sleeker and sleeker than the current Accord Tourer, as well as longer and lower, it was finished in a well-chosen rich red paint color that looked good on the Honda stand turntable. Features like flush door handles and cameras in place of mirrors won’t make the final cut, but the classy finish and handsome shape should be part of the new Accord range coming to market in mid-2008.

Suzuki Kizashi

Best known for its small cars, Suzuki is signaling an intention to do battle with the likes of Honda Accord and Toyota Camry with this dramatic concept. Based on two themes, ‘grace and dynamism’, the four-door concept gives clear design clues for a likely replacement for the mid-sized Verona model in 2009. Kizashi is powered by a 2.0-liter turbodiesel paired with six-speed sequential transmission and all-wheel drive.

Dreamy concept cars at Tokyo Motor Show 2007

Dreamy concept cars at Tokyo Motor Show 2007

In recent days, Japanese automakers have been releasing the details of concept cars to be unveiled at the upcoming 2007 Tokyo Motor Show (October 26 to November 11). Here is a roundup of some of the more fantastic designs.

(Toyota RiN)

Designed to promote harmony with nature and evoke a warm, fuzzy feeling inside, the eco-friendly Toyota RiN concept car features heated ergonomic seats, an oxygen level regulator, a spot humidifier, a “mood training” steering control system that monitors the driver’s psychological state, and greenish glass that protects against UV and infrared light while enhancing the natural beauty of the view outside. The exterior design was inspired by Japan’s old-growth Cryptomeria trees known as yakusugi, which are found on Yakushima island, a natural World Heritage Site known for its pristine, ancient forests.

(Toyota Hi-CT)
The Toyota Hi-CT, billed as a cool and fun next-generation urban assault vehicle, is built specifically for narrow city streets and features a hybrid engine you charge by plugging into a wall outlet. Batteries are stored under the floor for a more compact, upright design, and interior 100V AC outlets provide passengers a convenient way to power their portable electronic devices. The rear deck is big enough to haul bicycles and surfboards, or it can be outfitted with a detachable luggage trunk.

(Mazda Taiki)

The hyper-aerodynamic Mazda Taiki is the fourth vehicle in Mazda’s Nagare series of cars based on the concept of “flow.” Inspired by Japanese koinobori (decorative carp-shaped streamers), Taiki’s design is meant to visually express the flow of air (incidentally, taiki means “atmosphere” in Japanese). With outstanding environmental and driving performance, Taiki’s next-generation rotary engine and front-engine rear-drive layout may well figure into Mazda’s future sports cars designed to help achieve a more sustainable society.

(Honda PUYO)

The eco-friendly design of the Honda PUYO fuel-cell vehicle is meant to create a soft, friendly impression and entertain the occupants as well as the people around it. The “seamless soft box” design gives PUYO a spacious interior and the charm of a cute pet that begs to be touched. PUYO’s “gel body” made from soft materials is designed to enhance safety, while embedded headlights and other illumination shine through the soft, translucent skin in the hope of fostering a more tender relationship between human and machine.

(Nissan Pivo 2)

Like Nissan’s original Pivo, the electric-powered Pivo 2’s four individually-powered wheel units turn 90 degrees to move the car in any direction, while the 360-degree rotating cabin allows the driver to face forward at all times. Pivo 2’s most notable upgrade is the dashboard-mounted NEC Papero robotic agent who can carry on conversations and read facial expressions to monitor the driver’s condition. In addition to assisting with basic vehicle functions, Papero can help navigate streets and look for parking spaces, suggest where to stop for coffee if the driver looks sleepy, and lighten the mood by nodding and acting happy. (Watch video of Pivo 2.)

(Daihatsu Mud Master-C)

Daihatsu worked with mountain bike star Raita Suzuki to design the Mud Master-C, a compact and lightweight transporter ideally suited for MTB support duty. The Mud Master-C features a tough body-on-frame construction, an innovative hub reduction system and 16-inch off-road tires that provide more than 37 cm (14.5 inches) of ground clearance, allowing it to venture deep into mountain bike territory. Three giant gull-wing doors make it a snap to load and unload cargo.

(Mitsubishi i MIEV Sport)

A pair of in-wheel motors drive the front two wheels of the eco-friendly Mitsubishi i MIEV Sport electric minicar, while another motor drives the rear wheels. The i MIEV Sport has a range of 200 kilometers (120 miles) and is powered by lithium ion batteries, with extra juice provided by auxiliary solar cells mounted on the roof, a generating fan mounted in the front grille, and a regenerative braking system that recovers energy as the car slows down. Further efficiency is achieved with power-saving LEDs and heat-absorbing window glass, and the interior features lots of bioplastic components.

(Suzuki X-HEAD)

The versatile Suzuki X-HEAD crossover utility vehicle is built for off-road adventure and city cruising, and can be outfitted with a variety of load-bed units suitable for different situations. The “Camper” unit can be attached to provide sleeping space for two adults, the “Fashion” unit allows for stylish urban mobility, and the “Rescue” unit is ideal for emergency rescue operations in extreme environments.

(Suzuki Sustainable Mobility (PIXY + SSC))

Suzuki’s Sustainable Mobility concept vehicle consists of two units — a low-speed personal transport pod called the “PIXY” and a minicar-based mobility unit called the “Suzuki Sharing Coach” (SSC). Ideal for short trips around town, the PIXY is designed to transport individuals along sidewalks and into buildings. The PIXY fits inside the SSC for longer trips, and a shared control system allows the driver to operate the SSC from inside the PIXY. The PIXY can also be coupled with a sports car unit called the SSF and a boat unit called the SSJ.

New Honda : Concept Car

Here's one concept car that looks likely to hit the production mainline in the near future. Expanding its leading line of "green" sports cars, Honda recently unveiled this OSM (Open Study Model) at the British International Motor Show last week. The sporty two-seat convertible is reminiscent of the current S2000 line and joined the confirmed-for-production CR-Z sports Hybrid and the FCX Clarity at the show. honda Eco by Evelyn Lee

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2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit

What 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit has to offer automotive fans? This year 2009 NAIA in Detroit, Michigan will review last year NAIA 2008 and introduce some new cars for production 2010.Well, from their web, NAIAS will take place early next year Jan. 11 - 25, 2009.What i was expecting was review picture and performance of Lebanon First Supercar, Frem F1 by David Frem. Important date for NAIA Detroit: January 11-13 — Press days January 14-15 — Industry days January 16 — Charity preview January 17-25 — Open to the public Production car introductions 2010 Ford Taurus 2010 Honda Insight 2010 Toyota Prius NAIAS 2008 VEHICLE DEBUT LIST Updated from announcement made on Jan. 24 WORLDWIDE PRODUCTION 2009 Cadillac CTS-V 2008 Chevy Impala 50th Anniversary Edition 2009 Mitsubishi Lancer Ralliart 2009 Saturn Vue Green Line 2 Mode Hybrid SUV 2009 Audi TTS Coupe 2009 BMW 1-Series Ragtop Convertible 2009 BMW X6 Sport Activity Coupe Changfeng Kylin Changfeng Liebao CS7 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 2009 Dodge Ram 2010 Fisker Karma 2009 Ford F-150 2009 Ford Glass Roof Mustang 2009 Hyundai Genesis 2009 Kia Borrego Maserati Quattroporte Collezione Cento 2009 Mazda RX-8 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK Mercedes-Benz Carbon Fiber SLR McLaren Roadster 2009 Toyota Venza 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC WORLDWIDE CONCEPT Audi R8 V12 TDI Concept Cadillac CTS Coupe Concept Chrysler ecoVoyager Dodge ZEO Ford Explorer America Concept Ford Verve Sedan Concept Ferrari Biofuel-Powered F430 Spider Prototype 2009 Honda Pilot Prototype Hummer HX Concept Jeep Renegade Land Rover LRX Concept Lexus LF-A Roadster Lincoln MKT Concept Mazda Furai Concept Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Freeside Concept Mercedes-Benz Vision GLK Townside Concept Mitsubishi RA Concept Nissan Forum Saab 9-4x Concept Saturn Flextreme Concept Saturn Vue Green Line Plug-in Hybrid Prototype Toyota A-BAT NORTH AMERICAN PRODUCTION 2009 Audi A4 2009 BMW 335d Sedan 2009 BMW X5 xDrive35d9 2009 Subaru Forester Maybach Landaulet NORTH AMERICAN CONCEPT BYD H6 DM Hybrid Car Buick Riviera Concept Citroen C-Sport Lounge Dodge Hornet Ford Verve Three-Door Concept Honda CR-Z Kia Kee Mazda Taiki Concept Nissan Effis How about 2009 North American International Auto Show?This is the most prestigious auto shows in the world and is one of the largest media events in North America.Let us wait up what's hot from the auto show event early next year 2009.

 

Chevrolet Cruze’s pricing not so attractive

Last month, when GM made the official announcement regarding the Chevrolet Cruze, everyone, including us, was pretty excited, because the car promises to be a good one. However, time passes and we find out more details about the cars, that kinda ruin our initial excitement. And we’re talking about the car’s pricing. Though no official prices were released so far by GM, Chevrolet General Manager Ed Peper implied that, when it will enter the US market in 2010, the car will cost more than its Japanese competitors, the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla.

“Value and price are offshoots of what consumers think about them, what they’re willing to pay for the products,” Peper said. “It’s obviously in our best interest if people think more of our products, the more the value that we provide.” Guess we’ll have to wait and see what exactly he’s talking about, before saying anything, but the pricing difference will probably be substantial, and this might hurt Cruze sales a lot.

Acura RL

Is this the car that will finally bring Honda’s luxury Acura brand to British shores? According to our sources, the image on the right provides the best insight yet into plans currently under review to do exactly that.ased on the chassis that underpins Honda’s four-wheel-drive Legend saloon, the model is being described as a replacement for the top-of-the-range Acura RL – a front-wheel-drive machine available in the US market.ower is from an all-new 4.8-litre V8 engine producing at least 420bhp, and the newcomer will also benefit from a dev­elopment of Honda’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) transmission, along with a special cylinder deactivation engine management system that cuts fuel use. The hi-tech drivetrain is able to channel power to individual wheels, and works as a highly advanced traction control package. This will provide the new model with tremendous stability on slippery surfaces.

Meanwhile, the engine’s cylinder management set-up uses electronic valve control technology, which can switch off some of the chambers to boost mpg. It means that at cruising speeds, the V8 can run on only four cylinders. But then, under full throttle, the system will reactivate all eight of them, enhancing performance.Other technology tipped to appear on the RL includes night vision, as well as an evolution of Honda’s Lane Keep Assist set-up, which is already offered in the Legend and Accord.A self-driving feature should also mean the car will be capable of park­ing itself, while a hybrid version of the Acura has not been ruled out. This would threaten to lure customers from rival Lexus’s petrol-electric LS600h.After making its first public appearance in the middle of 2010, the new RL is expected to land in American showrooms carrying a price equivalent to around £45,000.
According to sources at Honda, the firm’s domestic market in Japan will be the next target. If the launch there is successful, sales in the UK could follow as early as 2012

Honda’s mega two-seater goes off the scale!

Japanese giant create a 1:64 Scale model of wild 20-litre V10 racer.

This Hot Wheels tribute to the 20-litre V10 Honda Racer concept is tiny, but it captures the real car’s racing spirit perfectly! The design, first revealed at the SEMA modified car show in the US last year, was inspired by Honda’s famous H logo. The only restrictions before being transformed into a 1:64-scale replica for production were that it could fit the Hot Wheels track and do a ‘loop-the-loop’.

Spada Vetture Sport Codatronca TS

After a gruesome three months of testing and many more, Spadaconcept, this Italian design studio founded by Paolo Spada (former designer at Smart and Honda) together with his dad Ercole, (former chief designer at Zagato and BMW), and many others.

They have launched their model of its super car, the Spada TS Codatronca. Since their upgrade on the TS (Turismo Sportivo), they have upgraded their “converter kit” which lets the user’s car with E85 green fuel, which increases their torque and power.

With a V8 engine and 630 horsepower, this car can reach from 0-60 in 3.4 seconds and it has a maximum speed of 211 mph. Since then, Paris Dakar and Le Mans has been working on the braking system, suspensions and engine upgrade.

Sparco, from Turin will supply the seats and other interior items. Pirelli and OZ racing will hand out their tires and wheels for this super car. This manufacturing system made from all these companies will provide their customers, with a chance to see different companies and their unique style.

Most Fuel Efficient Cars

Gas prices have tripled since 2000 and it is not going to get any lower. The average gas price in the U.S. is currently $4.50/gallon and that number is expected to rise even further within the next few years. The best ways to save money is not drive at all and just stay home, sit in front of your computer all day long! Most of us can’t do that because we must drive to work and we live in a society where driving is a necessity. How many miles are you getting from a gallon of gas? There will be no expensive cars in this post and none of the cars here will reach 0-60 in 5 secs, but these cars will save you money on gas every year.

Best Gas Mileage Cars - Top 10 List:

1. Toyota Prius: 48 City/45 Hwy, Base Price: $21,100. 1.5-liter, 16-Valve VVT-i 4-Cylinder engine with 110 hp, 0-60 in 9.8 secs. The most fuel efficient car on the market is the Toyota Prius, also the most demanding car in the U.S. Most dealers will charge you an extra $2000 for this car because it is rare and Toyota just doesn’t make enough of it yet. A small sedan, but roomy enough for 5 and it is perfect for those that drive over 100 miles a day to work.

2. Honda Civic Hybrid: 40 City/45 Hwy, Base Price: $22,600. 1.3-liter, 8-Valve, SOHC, i-VTEC® 4-Cylinder engine with 110 hp, 0-60 in 11.3 secs. Second on the list is a Honda Civic Hybrid, perfect for those Honda’s fans that hate the Toyota Prius. 5 seats sedan with an electric motors, allowing you to save money on gasoline.

3. Smart for Two: 33 City/41 Hwy, Base Price: $11,590. 1.0-liter 3-cylinder runs on high-priced premium fuel with only 70 hp. Small, affordable 2-seat car that has a small engine, capable of saving you a lot of money.

4. Volkswagen Jetta TDI: 29 City/40 Hwy, Base Price: $20,000. 2.0-liter, 4-Cylinder diesel engine with 140 hp. Run on clean diesel and it is expected to hit the U.S. market by August 2008; the 2009 VW Jetta TDI actual performances may vary.

5. Nissan Altima Hybrid: 35 City/33 Hwy, Base Price: $25,170. 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder gas engine with 158 horsepower. A midsize sedan made for the Nissan lovers; a bit sportier than most hybrids.

6. Toyota Camry Hybrid: 33 City/34 Hwy, Base Price: $25,350. 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder with 192-horsepower, reaching 0-60 in 8.9 secs. If you love the original Camry, then you should try the Camry Hybrid because it has better fuel economy and it can be a big saver after a few years.

7. Ford Escape Hybrid (tie): 34 City/30 Hwy, Base Price: $26,640. 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder with 155 hp. Along with 2 other SUV, The Ford Escape Hybrid is the most fuel efficient SUV in the world.

Mazda Tribute Hybrid (tie): 34 City/30 Hwy, Base Prices: $25,310 . 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder with 155 horsepower. If you want an SUV that can save you money on gasoline, why not get this Mazda?

Mercury Mariner Hybrid (tie): 34 City/30 Hwy, Base Price: $26,955 . 2.3-liter, 4-cylinder and 155 horsepower. A small SUV that can be a little pricey, but it will make up for it cost in the long run.

8. Toyota Yaris vs Toyota Corolla. Which Toyota vehicle would you rather own? The Yaris is definitely a better buy, but it is smaller than the average sedan and it functionality is very limited.

Toyota Yaris: 29 City/35 Hwy, Base Price: $11,350.

Toyota Corolla: 28 City/37 Hwy, Base Price: $15,250.

9. Mini Cooper: 28 City/37 Hwy, Base Price: $18,700. Engines: 118hp 1.6 L I4. A small vehicle that can also be purchased as a convertible.

10. Honda Fit vs Ford Focus vs Honda Civic. Which do you prefer out of these 3 cars? All 3 cars are under $16,000 and they will get you around 30-miles per gallon of gas.

Honda Fit: 28 City/34 Hwy, Base Price: $13,950.

Ford Focus: 24 City/35 Hwy, Base Price: $14,395

Honda Civic: 26 City/34 Hwy, Base Price: $15,010

Special Car - Honda Civic GX (run on natural gas): 24 City/36 Hwy, Base Price: $24, 590. 113-hp, 1.8-Liter, 16-Valve, SOHC i-VTEC® 4-cylinder engine. This is probably the most fuel efficient car because natural gasoline costs less than $1.00 a gallon. However, this isn’t on the top 10 list because it is currently only available in NY and CA and it is very limited. You probably won’t find a natural gas pump at your regular gas station, that is why Honda sells an at home pump you can plug into your home’s natural gas line. A full tank (8 gallons) can travels approximately 170 miles and fueling stations are very limited; make sure to plan your trip correctly if you own a Civic GX.

What do you think of this list? If there are better fuel efficient cars available on the market, please list those cars and link to them. We only list cars that are currently available for purchase and has already been on the market. Cars that are in production cannot be on the list because it is not yet available for purchase. Your comment is very valuable and it will help us keep the list accurate.

Honda NSX Based Ferrari 360 Modena Replica up for sale on eBay!

Why would someone go into all that hassle and spend so much money to convert a perfectly fine looking supercar like the Honda NSX (sold as the Acura NSX in the States) into a Ferrari 360 Modena replica is beyond us. To be honest, we thought that these things only happened to cars like the Toyota MR2 and the Pontiac Fiero. Between you and me, what would have really blown our minds is if it were the other way around, meaning a 360 Modena turned into an NSX replica. Now that would have been something worth talking about. But anyways. -Continued

The Swiss seller of the Acurrari 360 Hondena claims that no expenses were spared during the transvestation transformation of the NSX into the Modena. But it gets even better. Here's an extract from the description of the vehicle on eBay:

"For this money you could get a real Ferrari. But everyone can buy a real Ferrari. This genuine Ferrari you can buy only once, as it is the only one in the world. The gasoline consumption is less than half of Ferrari with similar performance, maintenance costs are very much cheaper than Ferrari, and this car has the reliability of Honda ... ( Rust has no chance, in contrast to Ferrari ...)"

Yep, now we're totally convinced that we should spend more than €31,100 / $41,400 -which is the latest bid on eBay as we speak- to buy a vehicle that looks no different than every Tom's, Dick's and Harry's F(i)errari replica.