Personal Luxury Cars | Nissan Leaf will break the EV silence with a digital whistle

As we get closer to seeing significant numbers of electric vehicles come to market, various standards are starting to emerge that cover things like how these vehicles are to be charged and how to measure range and equivalent mileage. One feature that remains up in the air is the sound signature of electric vehicles. For years, EV advocates have touted the silent operation of battery-powered vehicles as a bonus.

However, advocates for the blind and safety regulators are pushing for electric vehicles to produce some audible alert that indicates their presence. According to Just-Auto, beginning next week, Nissan will be bringing in 500 people including media, government officials and customers who have signed up to buy the Leaf to drive the car at its Oppama, Japan test track.

Among other things, they will be evaluating the "approaching vehicle sound" that will be used for the Leaf and Fuga (Infiniti M37) hybrid. Nissan is testing a system that produces external sounds that sweep across a range of frequencies to insure that almost anyone can hear it. The sound will also vary depending on whether the car is accelerating or decelerating.

[Source: Just-Auto]

Personal Luxury Cars | King Abdullah greenlights Gazal 1 to become first Saudi-made car

The very first car designed and built in Saudi Arabia is officially a reality. King Abdullah unveiled the production Gazal 1 at a special ceremony yesterday and congratulated everyone who participated in the vehicle's development on a job well done. As you may recall, the Gazal 1 was a special project created by the students at King Saud University. Though built off the bones of a Mercedes-Benz G-Class, the KSU kids penned the exterior and reworked the interior to accommodate Saudi Arabia's notoriously brutal climate and demanding terrain.

When we saw the original Gazal 1 design study at this year's Geneva Motor Show, we thought the vehicle looked pretty good, especially considering how little experience the SUV's designers had in bringing a full-scale vehicle to life. From what we can tell, it looks like the production version has stuck fairly close to the big green model we saw back in March. That means the Toyota FJ Cruiser-style roof has made its way into reality along with the very International grille.

It works for us, especially considering the go-anywhere Mercedes-Benz components bolted underneath. No one's said what's under the hood of the Gazal 1, but we're guessing the same 382-horsepower 5.5-liter V8 from the standard G550 is a good bet.

[Source: Arab News]

Luxury Car Features | Acura Integra - The Perfect Luxury Car

Most of the individuals who are looking forward to buy Acura Integra are generally drawn towards this specific car for two particular reasons i.e. the car has a luxurious sports appeal and yet comes at an affordable price. Integra is the car which was initially able to draw a large number of customers towards the Acura brand and thus making the luxury cars wing of Honda extremely successful worldwide.

Designing strategy:

Most of the people believe that the dramatic design of Acura Integra has been greatly inspired from Honda's earlier version of luxury sedan i.e. Civic. Acura Integra was dramatically redesigned in 1994 and possessed several new features, such as dual air bags, compact Integra 2-door hatchback coupe and another 4-door notchback. When the car was first launched in 1987, it was surrounded with a lot of frenzy and hype. Needless to say, after several modifications and years, this car has been able to prove its worth.

Acura Integra is a highly successful car today which comes in several models and versions. Some of the most prominent Acura Integra models can be defined on three levels i.e. base RS, luxury LS and the sporty GS-R. All the Acura Integra models comprise of 4-wheel disc brakes. However, the feature of anti-lock braking is available only in luxury LS and sporty GS-R.

How much would it cost?

One of the main reasons which led Acura Integra to become an immensely successful phenomenon was its apt pricing. Acura Integra price was based on several strategies in a bid to make it successful in the market. Although this car fell under the luxury section, its price was set several thousand dollars lower than the standard $25,000 which was being charged for other luxury cars.

This apt pricing has even led some car enthusiasts to name Acura Integra as a car which instead of being called a luxury car can more prominently be known as a car which is well-equipped, easy-to-tune, fun-to-drive and better qualifies as a sports coupe.

Features:

In terms of its performance, Acura Integra is fitted with pretty decent features, such as standard air conditioning and a 195 horsepower engine. A standard model of Acura Integra comes pre equipped with a standard antitheft engine immobilizer and 100,000- mile tune-up intervals.

Acura Integra is an apt car for individuals who are looking forward to a car which is better engineered, comes from the family of prestigious Honda, is aptly priced yet gives them the status of a luxury sports car.

Exclusive offer on Engine and Transmission Replacements. Cheap Used Engines
Call Today for a FREE no obligation, no pressure quote toll free:
1-877-268-0664

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Enamul_Huque

Luxury Car Features | The Safest Luxury Cars to Insure

Considering the exorbitant prices of most luxury cars, it's a veritable godsend for many cash-strapped consumers when genius car manufacturers have invented cars worth their sticker prices.

Thus it strips off the word luxury, bearing the meaning that it holds up to its name because of its price and nothing else.

Today, prominent car manufacturers like BMW and AUDI had been ravishing the limelight after they received recognition from Consumer Reports on its latest models.

The cars were among the safest cars on the road.

BMW 330i's general safety features that placed it on the top of the list are panic button alarm, side guard door beams, and child-safety door locks.

It is also equipped with driver airbags, a passenger air bag cutoff switch or sensor, a passenger airbag, front side airbag, and side head curtain airbags. The second row side airbag is optional.

For added protection, the BMW 330i is equipped with anti- theft prevention features. These features are the selective locking or unlocking feature, the locking fuel filler door or cap, valet lockout, and the vehicle anti-lockout device.

It is equipped with a stability control that effectively protects the driver from any swerving or uncontrolled motion.

Moreover, because of the many incidences wherein sudden inflation of airbags had caused accidents, mostly children, BMW 330i airbags are endowed with smart dual-thresholds, sensor, and dual-stage deployment that curb any airbags inflation that were uncalled for.

On the other hand, the Audi A4 luxury car also speaks of genuine craftsmanship.

The safety break features enable the Audi A4 to safeguard its occupants in the event that an accident happens or whenever the road becomes slippery.

A dual-stage and dual-threshold airbag supplemental restraints with occupant sensors were also provided.

It also has a new system of seat belts management and usability that features a safer way of employing seat belts while on the road.

Plus, it has child-friendly safety features like LATCH or the lower anchorage and tethers for children system situated at the rear seats, and child safety rear door locks.

With all these safety features, no wonder they were among the safest cars on the road. This is not just mere recognition for most buyers but also a way of saving more money when getting insurance.

It is because most auto insurance companies charge lower premium rates to drivers who drive safe cars. There are also auto insurance companies that offer additional anti-theft or vehicle tracking discounts.

Moreover, cars, like the ones mentioned, who performed well on car crash tests will keep you safe in an accident and as a side benefit most likely get you lower auto insurance premiums.

Brad Intlehouse is an ex-insurance agent whose goal is to help you make smart buying decisions on your car insurance and answer your insurance questions to help save you money year after year.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Brad_Intlehouse

Luxury Car Features | What Luxury Car Brand Suits You?

Take a look around you, especially on the road. You will see a swarm of luxury cars from major car manufacturers gracing the streets. Whether cars have become cheaper or people are earning more money is a different discussion altogether. We are only interested in knowing what modern luxury car brand appeals to what kind of buyer.

Automobile market has been segmented according to buyer preferences. Cars belonging to the same segment will essentially have almost the same features with the only differentiating factor being the family they come from. Most major car manufacturers represent some buyer perceptions and it is the typical character associated with their brand name that compels the buyer to make a choice between vehicles that have very few differentiating factors.

If we focus on just three of the major car manufacturers, we would realize that they manage to produce similar luxury vehicles in order to cater to the market segments and yet maintain a unique character in those vehicles that is specific to their make and symbolizes their brand.

Mercedes - Benz: Arguably the most famous luxury car maker in the world, The Merc as it is affectionately called represents a prime example of German engineering. Being one of the first luxury cars in the world, Mercedes has a unique niche in the automobile world and its name symbolizes classic styling, grand presence and fine-tuned performance. The historical three-pointed Mercedes logo is the stuff most people dream about.

Mercedes maintains a unique character in all of their vehicles. Their vehicles are a blend of luxury, classic design, and attention-to-detail. Some people say that you can recognize a Mercedes from a mile away. Mercedes manufactures vehicles catered to different segments of the market and even while conforming to the requirements of a particular segment their vehicles don't shy away from displaying a character that is so uniquely Mercedes.

The Pundits say that your favorite luxury car is a Mercedes if you prefer stability in life and like to play it safe. That is probably the image Mercedes represents in the market today. People associate class with Mercedes and usually their vehicles are centered on a theme that oozes royalty. Since it is the most established luxury brand with a great reputation, buyers who like to trust the tradition and go with the flow are the ones who prefer a Mercedes.

BMW: These sharp looking double-grilled vehicles have a unique image in the market symbolizing the essence of performance in a vehicle. This is another German brand that is famous world over for cars that feature cutting edge dynamics and impeccable performance with unmatched styling. BMW stresses on performance and joy of driving in their vehicles. Their vehicles symbolize muscle and raw power. BMW styling is unique and what they make today, others make tomorrow. This is one brand preferred by buyers who like trills and love to take risks in life. It is for the aggressors who like to announce themselves when they arrive. Trendy would be the appropriate term for these vehicles as opposed to the classy Merc.

Audi: Although many would argue over the fact that Audi is not in the same league as the two stalwarts listed above, there are facts that suggest that Audi is even overpowering the two traditional rivals in terms of luxury car sales all over the world. Again a German brand, Audi has emerged as the choice of the young and the fearless. People who dare to think beyond established norms are going for the Audi. It is a breakaway from the tradition and that's what these people want. Audi cars are designed exquisitely and they represent the influence of latest technology over traditional machinery. These performance oriented cars are sporty and appeal to the modern buyer who is self-made, competent and confident. Modern ground-breaking styling and technology is probably the hallmark of Audi and they maintain it as their USP.

In my opinion, your choice of a luxury car truly depends on the character you associate with a brand name and its resemblance to that of your own. The opinion of the masses also proves to be a significant influence in your decision. Since there is very little to choose between luxury car models, it is your perception about the brand name that ultimately results in your choice.

James Rodham
Quality Auto Parts

James Rodham is the Information Architect at http://www.qualityautoparts.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=James_Rodham

Luxury Car Features | Luxury Car Quotes

Determining exactly what constitutes a luxury car gets tricky because the criteria seem to vary. For example, you may define it according to a certain price range or manufacturer, or the technological and comfort features a vehicle offers. Nowadays there are also more than just cars to consider...luxury now abounds in many SUVs, wagons, compacts, and even pick-up trucks.

Remember the old saying, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder"? Luxury varies by individual, so let's define a luxury car as one that offers the most in the way of convenience, creature comforts, and drivability to a specific driver. Entry-level luxury cars can cost in the neighborhood of $35,000 to $40,000.

This category attracts people who want the prestige that comes from driving vehicles made by automobile makers known for high quality. Examples include Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Cadillac, and Lincoln, to name just a few. Some manufacturers not generally considered producers of luxury cars also make high-end models with enough bells and whistles to be considered luxurious.

In any event, comfort, convenience, and great engineering in varying degrees ultimately determine luxury. Things such as quality leather seats, thick, lush carpeting, real wood trim, quiet, stabilized ride, a solid build, and a smoothly purring engine with enough power to never be sluggish constitute luxury for most drivers. In this age of technology, each year brings a new tool, and now we can navigate by watching an in-dash screen, listen to incredible sound systems that completely surround us in the car; and even let our cars parallel park themselves. Even more importantly - safety features continue to evolve as well.

24 Hour Car Quote is the Guaranteed free service that has helped people get into the car of their dreams and can help you too! Get your 100% Free Car Quote(http://www.24hourcarquote.com/) from the closest authorized dealer in your area within 24 hours.

Luxury Cars - Car Quotes. Define your version of Luxury by logging on to 24 Hour Car Quote and studying all. Also get right Luxury Car Quote [http://www.24hourcarquote.com/luxury-cars.html].

About Author: Ben Padnos is an Internet Entrepreneur based in Manhattan Beach, California and enjoys writing on various subjects. You can reach him at DONE! SEO Services

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Padnos

Luxury Car Features | Luxury Car Leasing - Go For the Functional High End Vehicle

In these modern days of fast and flashy automobiles, a lot of people certainly love to drive high end vehicles. But then many are wanting of cash for such luxuries. Others still are able to realize their dream of driving one with the use of luxury car leasing.

What is luxury auto leasing? When it comes to high end vehicle lease schemes, definitely the best car lease deals are those autos that can hold their value. With this important fact to consider, people should be able to single out some truths concerning residual values, ones that apply consistently to high end auto leasing.

Remember that to work for luxury car leasing, one has to mind resale values. The determining factor of resale values is simply the public perception about the auto brand and not the reliability rating numbers obtained mainly in quality surveys. Take for example the luxury vehicle Jaguar, it is rated generally as an brand. However, because of the doubting reliability perception within the public, the car takes a dip at the term end when it comes to its value.

High tech features and options as well as amazing cutting edge functions do not automatically mean the automobile will fare excellently. When the times comes that your car is older, better and less expensive auto systems will render its many supposedly high tech function now obsolete.

When getting a luxury car leasing, you must be more attentive to the more useful functions and features, like the power windows, auto transmissions and power wheel drive. Such features are sure to enhance the value of your auto in the used car arena. As it is, second hand vehicle purchasers see luxury vehicles, even those that come with exciting and enticing incentives, less favorably simply because they are perceived strongly as questionable in reliability and quality.

For more interesting and engaging auto leasing articles such as car leasing deal, do visit our Auto Lease Specials blog.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ernesto_Maitim