Auto Craze: All New SUVs!

Hello and welcome to this amazing world of modern and High-tech vehicle line up and their reviews by your friend!

This week, I have come up with a bunch of giants of automotive industry with their macho muscular beasts.

Take a look at them and enjoy!!

DODGE NITRO

This Dodge Nitro rolls on custom 22 inch Alcoa rims with 14 inch Brembos behind them. With custom body panels including carbon fibre hood, front and rear fascias are covered in a one of a kind blackberry pearl paint accented by the custom purple rain glass supplied by Solutia.

But this Nitro isn't just about looks. The team stuffed a Mopar Performance 5.7 litre HEMI under the hood. Gear slamming is done through a Tremec 5 speed transmission via a Hurst pistol grip.

The interior continues the no nonsense approach with four Viper buckets wrapped in black carbon fibre leather by Katzkin.

Sure to turn heads – leaving lots of long black strips on the pavement.

Specifications
Builders: DaimlerChrysler Dealer Technical Operations and Vehicle Build Shops
Engine: 5.7 litre HEMI Crate Engine by Mopar
Power: 268 kW @ 5,400 rpm
Torque: 487 Nm @ 4,200 rpm

Source: DaimlerChrysler Press Releases

OPEL and CHEVY to launch mini SUV

GM’s European division will be launching a new mini-SUV based on the Corsa hatch, a vehicle that could be sold as a Chevrolet or Saturn for the US market by the end of the decade. Smaller than the current Antara SUV, which is sold in the US as the Saturn Vue, the new Corsa-based SUV is being developed to rival upcoming models from the likes of Ford, Suzuki, and Fiat.

These latest renderings, which were compiled using information from sources close to the project, reveal that both the US and European versions will be identical, with both cars getting plastic side-cladding, raised suspension and a protective metal skid-plate integrated into the front bumper.

Although Opel models sold in the US are usually badged as Saturns, this latest version is likely to be sold as a Chevy. GM gave a preview of such a car back in 2005 at the Seoul Motor Show with its T2X concept, and it’s likely that any new model will be a Chevy. Production is tipped to start at GM’s plant in Antwerp, Belgium, with the first cars rolling off the production line in late 2009.

Despite its small stature, the new SUV won’t be a budget based model. Based on GM’s new small car platform, the mini-SUVs will feature an AWD configuration and could even get a new mild-hybrid system that utilizes brake energy regeneration. The familiar 1.3L and 1.7L diesel units from the Corsa hatch would likely carry over, however, US markets would most certainly see a petrol version as well.

HONDA CR V 2010

When the original Honda CR-V debuted in the late 1990s, its mission was simple: to offer a distinct alternative to more mainstream mid- and full-size large SUVs. With its car-based design, four-cylinder engine and sedan-like ride and handling, the CR-V was an instant hit. Priced competitively and offering plenty of passenger room and cargo capacity for most people's needs, the Honda CR-V enjoyed incredibly strong sales numbers and much loyalty from consumers. It still remains hugely popular.

Today, the compact- or small-SUV segment has grown to include more than a dozen different models, with varying philosophies of what constitutes the perfect blend of size, power and capability. While some compacts offer larger V6 engines and others can deliver true off-road capability, the Honda CR-V remains focused on its carlike aspirations. True enough, it is one of the best choices available in the all-important areas of on-road drivability and practicality.

Current Honda CR-V

Buyers can choose from three trim levels – the LX, EX and EX-L. The LX gets you the basics like powered accessories, air-conditioning and a CD player. The high-volume EX model adds niceties like keyless entry, alloy wheels, an upgraded stereo, moonroof and privacy glass. For those who want it all, the uplevel EX-L's additions include leather upholstery, power driver seat, satellite radio and a subwoofer. The sole item on the SUV's options list is a touchscreen navigation system that includes a rearview camera. Just look at the beauty!!

Powering the Honda CR-V is a 2.4-liter inline four-cylinder engine good for 166 horsepower and 161 pound-feet of torque, mated to a five-speed transmission. On all models, buyers can opt for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive to maximize traction.

Side view is amazing!!!

The Honda CR-V's list of merits is a long one. Its interior is intelligently thought out and boasts high-quality materials. Its ride is comfortable and quiet, its handling is nimble and its crash test scores are superlative. Its sole shortcoming concerns passing power in certain circumstances. Our editors found the 4WD CR-V's acceleration adequate and pleasant around town, but merging and passing maneuvers on gradients can strain its torque reserves -- especially when compared to its V6-equipped competition. However, as long as your beaten path doesn't include many steep roads or overly heavy loads, we think the Honda CR-V may possess all the room, refinement and performance you will ever need.

Used Honda CR-Vs

The current CR-V is part of the model's third generation, which dates back to 2007. There have been no significant changes since then, although the EX-L gains a power driver seat, automatic climate control and a premium stereo for '08.

Redesigned for 2002, the second-generation CR-V boasted a number of improvements including more power, more interior room and improved passenger protection. Mostly detail changes saw the CR-V through the next few years, meaning earlier models can provide especially good value.

Of the 2006 model, our editors said, "Around-town driving reveals a softly tuned setup that favors comfort over performance and is just about ideal for commuters. Four-wheel-drive CR-Vs are perfect for negotiating wet or snowy road conditions. However, when taken on terrain more rugged than a gravel road, the Honda CR-V quickly gets wobbly in the knees. Though it has more ground clearance than the Honda Element, this isn't the mini SUV to get if you regularly venture into the wilderness."

The original first-generation Honda CR-V compact SUV hit the streets a decade ago. It was priced competitively and offered more passenger room and cargo capacity than its peers. A manual transmission was added in 1998, and a much welcomed 20-hp boost the following year gave it a new output of 146 hp. In 2000, a leather-trimmed SE (Special Edition) model was added to lead the model lineup.