Speed Racer Movie Review

After the success of the films in the Matrix series, the Wachowski Brothers return to the director's chair with this adaptation of the classic cartoon. INTO THE WILD's Emile Hirsch jumps into the Mach 5 car as Speed Racer, while John Goodman and Susan Sarandon play his parents. Christina Ricci costars as Speed's girlfriend Trixie, and Matthew Fox (LOST) is Racer X, his biggest competitor.

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Proton R3 Satria Hints at New Hot Hatch at Melbourne Show

At the Melbourne International Motor Show on February 29, Malaysian carmaker Proton will reveal a pre-production version of the R3 Satria hot hatch. The R3 Satria has been developed by Proton’s special vehicles and motorsport arm - R3, which stands for Race, Rally, and Research - at its headquarters in Shah Alam in Malaysia. The pre-production model features a range of special body enhancements as well as suspension development and, according to Proton, a high performance power plant – though no details where released. -Continued
At this stage the R3 Satria is still in development and no on sale date has been decided however the R3 division is working to bring the performance model to market as soon as possible

This new copy from http://allcarsreview.com/

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All-new Honda Fit in Japan

Japanese car manufacturer Honda has announced that its all-new second-generation Honda Fit will go on sale in Japan on Friday, October 26, 2007. The Fit is a five-door hatchback launched in June 2001, that quickly became the first car since 1969 to outsell Toyota’s best-seller, the Corolla, on the Japanese car market. So clearly we’re onto something good!
With Honda’s man maximum, machine minimum philisophy at the heart of the concept, Honda likes to think of the Fit as the "ideal small car for a new age," where passenger space has been maximized and the "space occupied by mechanical components has been minimized." So what’s changed since the previous generation? For starters, the new Fit is 20 mm wider and has a longer wheelbase (+50 mm) than its predecessor and the front pillar has been moved forward to create a more spacious interior. Honda claims that the body construction of the second-generation Fit is more rigid and that more sound-absorbing acoustic materials have been fitted. The entry-level model features a 100 hp 1.3-litre i-VTEC engine.
Since we’re all about power, aerodynamics, gadgets and sex appeal, we’re more interested in the Fit RS (signifying Road Sailing) model that will be powered by a new 1.5-liter i-VTEC engine, putting out 88 kW (120 hp). It won’t blow your trousers away, but don’t despair, you’ll be riding around 19.6 km on a liter of petrol (45 mpg U.S.). Honda engineers have clearly devoted attention to practicality this time again, as the Fit comes with a rotating passenger seat, a feature that should be welcomed by those struggling with backache!

This new copy from http://allcarsreview.com/2007/10/19/all-new-honda-fit-in-japan/

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Economy Car Comparison: Honda Fit vs. Nissan Versa vs. Toyota Yaris

Back in the halcyon days of $2.50-a-gallon gas, subcompacts were perceived mostly as transportation for college students. If there wasn't a Delta Tau chi sticker on the back window, you could expect to see a rental-car frame around the license plate. Either way, premium unleaded isn't getting cheaper, and you have to stop raiding the kids' piggybank to fill up your prized sport/utility. No wonder subcompact gas-sippers are becoming more appealing-and more sophisticated. Variable valve timing, side-curtain airbags, and six-speed transmissions are now standard equipment in some of these cars-and most of them now cost less than $13,500. Add to that three hot new entries from Honda, Nissan, and Toyota, and the niche that was once a punch line is now all grown up.

The Honda Fit, known as the jazz around the world, is a five-door that slots into the American lineup below the Civic. It's the smallest offering from Japan's big Three, but, as is Honda's way, contains concentrated doses of ingenuity and Versatility. The Nissan Versa is a more powerful version of the Tiida hatchback. It has the most European styling of the trio, along with the longest wheelbase and heaviest curb weight. Like the others, the Toyota Yaris has already been on sale in Europe and Japan. It's offered here as a three-door hatch or a four-door sedan, but for a fair interior comparison, we put the sedan up against two hatchbacks. Our testers were the loaded models, equipped with optional transmissions and all available safety items, including ABS and front, front side, and side curtain airbags.

The styling of all three fits their differing personalities. Despite the limited success of the tall-wagon-meets-micro-hatch in America, the Fit's design works and is instantly likeable. It's clear Honda's aiming at a younger market, and this car's lines and attitude are edgy enough to steal sales from Scion. The Versa, which one staffer describes as "a Quest that shrank in the dryer," takes longer to get used to. Most of the lines are pleasant enough, but the rear side windows that slant forward at the bottom, countered by the back-sloping rear hatch, creates an odd triangular c-pillar (a combination that won't be in the sedan, available in early 2007). The attractive if nondescript four-door Yaris takes on a familiar shape: Meet the corolla jr. The Yaris doesn't need to appeal to the youth market-that's what Scion's for. This one will bring more conservative subcompact buyers to dealerships.

While none is lightning fast, all do an admirable job of getting up to speed. The Yaris and Fit have 1.5-liter fours with variable valve timing, producing 106 and109 horsepower, respectively. The Toyota uses a four-speed automatic, and our Fit Sport came equipped with a five-speed automatic with steering-wheel-mount EZ paddle shifters. The Versa, the heaviest of the three, is powered by a 122-horse,1.8-liter four, controlled by a CVT for improved fuel economy and performance. The Nissan has the second best weight-to power ratio, but its gearing advantage over the four-speed Toyota made it the best performer at the track, reaching 60 mph in9.7 seconds, over two seconds faster than the Fit (11.9) and 0.7 second faster than the Yaris. It also clinched the quarter mile, reaching that distance in 17.4 seconds at78.6 mph. The middle-of-the-road Yaris came in second-best in acceleration, braking, and handling. The Fit, however, is the agile go-kart-like handler of this test: it ran the slalom at 64.1 mph, a speed 2.1mph higher than the Yaris's and 3.5 better than the Versa's.

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Nissan Latio Sedan

ProsFuel efficency, comfortable (spacious) interior, deep drawer also deep booth, quite engine, luxury look (interior).ConsPoor suspension, poor tyres, poor paint works, engine sound a bit (chirp chirp bird like sound)in lower gear when you are at surrounded building like multi storey carpark.

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First Drive – Audi A4 3.2 Quattro

The Audi A4 is the last in its class to arrive. It’s about time too, because while still the best built amongst all, the lack of dynamism and equipment meant that BMW and Mercedes-Benz have managed to catch up. 11 May 2008 Text and photos by Amery Reuben. Viewed 4,342 times
Audi claims to change all that with the 2008 A4, and while our pictures of the new car do it little justice, it is anything but a hand-me-down from the model it replaces.
Those taut, wrap-around lines of the older model still remain, albeit much tighter in execution. Certain, squared-off sections in the detailing are instrumental to the car’s revitalized design. It also looks expensive, especially with those LED daytime running lights inspired by the Audi R8
Locally, the S-Line styling package on our 3.2-litre Quattro test pad adds 18-inch alloys, a sporty 3-spoke steering wheel, different bumpers, and grille, Xenon lights, highly impressive interior trim with rear sunshade, and of course, Audi’s multimedia and music interface with a stunningly precise Bang & Olufsen sound system that channels 505-watts of sound through 10 channels and 14 speakers!
That’ll set you back by $188,000.
The important stuff
But we digress. The real highlight of the new A4 is, as with most Germans, under the skin. Specifically speaking; MLP, or modular longitudinal platform. Like the A5, the MLP shifts the engine 150mm back by placing the differential in front of the gearbox, allowing the turning axis to be moved closer to the nose, by moving the rack forward and underneath of the engine.
MLP means new measurements too - 4703mm in length and 1826mm in width. That’s 53mm wider and a whole 116mm longer, while the old and new model’s height figures remain the same. The wheelbase increases by an astounding 168mm. The A6’s wheelbase in comparison, is only 38mm longer.
The rigid 2008, all-steel body alone weighs a good 10-percent less, translating to a scant 40-kg penalty for this 3.2-litre, four-wheel driven V6. The entry-level, 1.8-litre TFSI will only chock up 20kg or so, depending on equipment levels.
The Ingolstadt crew also introduces Audi Drive Select, toggling the car’s suspension control, response and smoothness between comfort and sport modes, with an automatic select being the computerized compromise. This works with new differentials that do a 40:60 front-to-rear torque split, and we’ll tell you what all of that’s done for the Audi.
Improved body control
From the minute we set off onto the test track, there was an undeniably different feeling to this new A4. A delightfully taut initial turn-in, responsive throttle, steering and a low-mounted brake pedal meant a night-and-day difference between old and new.

This review copy from http://www.sgcarmart.com/news/review.php?AID=28

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All New Toyota Corolla Altis 2008

Toyota has been selling Corollas since the 60's. Despite serving the masses well, it’s painfully uninspired, and its designs have become somewhat of a numbing norm. Now in its 10th incarnation, it shares similar engines with the previous model. Can it hold a candle to the stylishly popular Honda Civic or the aggressively fashioned Mitsubishi Lancer?

You wouldn't be able to guess what it is from a distance. In fact, you’d be forgiven for thinking it was a Camry. Great! Toyota has taken hints of its large sedan and slapped them onto the new Altis, mainly in the form of the car’s front grille and headlamps.
And that’s the first impression we get with this new model. At last, a little visual justice has been done to this icon of daily, workhorse transportation. After proving to be the definitive, popular choice of Singaporean families, Toyota has made it even more irresistible to own one with their current offspring.
Exterior
At 20mm closer to the ground and almost 60mm wider than its predecessor, the new Toyota Corolla exudes a much younger and sportier nature. The soft, distinct lines cut and define their way from front to rear as they flow over the headlamps, past the bonnet and running the length of the sides before gently dissolving at the trunk. Toyota calls this modelling process a “Sweep Cut”, which is basically one of their forms of car sculpting.
So it has character. Even more than the past few Corolla's combined. But like everything else, something had to give, and that came in the form of the back-side of the car.
The odd shaped tail lamps seem to be a compromise between that of the Camry's and the older Altis'. This somewhat dampened the excitement that the front conveyed. Even the circular reflectors embedded in either side of the bumpers were a little off, and reeked of last minute placement.
To get our minds off that, Toyota distracts by pointing out that in their bid to contribute to a greener environment, they have reduced the amount of environmentally harmful substances used in the production of their cars. Materials used in parts like silicon weather stripping and the blackout portion of the door frame and roof moulding have been substituted with less harmful materials.
The result? 80% less Volatile Organic Compounds in the atmosphere as compared to the previous model. No wonder it cost almost a billion yen to develop…
Interior
You are greeted by a neat, uncluttered dash together with a beige colour scheme - easy on the eyes with a sense of calm, overriding any form of negative energy. The centre console's various buttons are distributed well, and are all within the reach of the driver.
The rest of it is pretty much standard issue - an updated steering wheel with audio control buttons, CD player, a graphic audio interface and climate control.

This review copy from http://www.sgcarmart.com/news/review.php?AID=28

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2009 Honda Fit

It might seem only a short time since Honda introduced the Fit. Yet the company is now introducing a second edition. Truth be known, the previous Fit had been on the market for several years before it arrived in the U.S. market. This time Americans do not have to wait as long to get a new version as the all-new Fit goes on sale in the summer of 2008 as a 2009 model.
Those who thought the previous Fit, known in many parts of the world as the Jazz, was perhaps too small will not be disappointed as the new Fit is a tad larger. This should fit the bill for many who really need a smaller car but perhaps don't want one. How's that for an oxymoron?
Overall, the look of the 2009 Honda Fit is similar to that of the previous model, but it has a much more heavily raked windshield that's located five inches farther forward. Apart from giving the car a more sporty look, it also makes for a much more spacious feel inside.
The 2009 Fit has a wheelbase that's two inches longer than that of the previous model. The new Fit gets an upgraded 1.5-liter VTEC four-cylinder engine that produces about 10 percent more horsepower. It's comes with a choice of five-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission; the Sport model's automatic comes with steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.
Despite a slight increase in size, the new Fit only weighs a few pounds more and even with an increase in power it is expected to deliver better fuel economy, an impressive achievement.
A key attribute of the Fit is its flexible cargo carrying capability. It has a large rear tailgate that allows easy access to the luggage area. Furthermore, the so-called rear Magic Seat has been further improved so it can now be folded flat in one single movement, without removing the headrest even if the front seats are in their rearmost position. There are several combinations of seating positions to provide flexible storage needs. A new hidden storage bin underneath the driver's side rear seat for placing small items securely out of sight.
The Fit Sport gets larger, 16-inch wheels and an optional Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System features a 6.5-inch screen with voice recognition. All Fit Sport models include a USB audio interface that's compatible with current-generation iPods and many other USB storage devices.
Although the Fit is a small entry-level car it features a full complement of safety features including full curtain side airbags, ABS and electronic brake distribution system. A vehicle stability assist (VSA) system with active headrests is available as an option.

This content copy from http://www.newcartestdrive.com/sneakpreview.cfm?ReviewID=202

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LifeHammer Original Emergency

LifeHammer is the original emergency hammer! Bring yourself extra peace of mind with this car escape tool. It is the perfect escape tool to help prevent automotive entrapment after an accident. Next to the airbag and the safety belt, LifeHammer is the most important automotive safety tool that NO vehicle should be without. Remember, sometimes safety belts jam after a collision and power locks become disabled. LifeHammer can cut through a jammed safety belt with its razor-sharp blade and can quickly break through a side window with its double tipped steel heads. LifeHammer - the 1st and only quality auto escape tool with over 20 years of experience, used and trusted by a growing number of public safety organizations in the US and Europe. Features: - Double-sided steel head shatters side and rear automotive windows - Sharp razor cuts through safety belt - Bracket for mounting in vehicleflourescent pin glows in the dark for easy retrieval - Suitable for public and safety organizations, insurance,automotive, and utility fleet industries. - Life Hammer Auto Escape Tool in box.

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Security Chain Super Z6 SZ119, Cable Chain for Passenger Cars, Pickups & SUVs

These really work great. I purchased a set for my Nissan pickup last year. The first time I used them was this November 2006 when we had a big snowstorm hit Oklahoma. They were very easy to put on; in fact I put on both chains in around five minutes. They work great on deep snow and hard packed snow and ice. I am a retired police officer and was skeptical on how well the Super Z chain would perform. As long as the Super Z tire chain is made I will own a set of them. A great product! Mark Hatfield - Enid Oklahoma.

The Super Z6 has better compatibility with anti-lock brakes, traction control, all-wheel drive, and other electronically monitored control systems so as not to interfere with the normal handling characteristics of your vehicle. The unique design also offers a low potential for damage to vehicle body and mechanical components, even when abused.

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The 2009 Toyota Matrix

The 2009 Toyota Matrix is redesigned, getting more power but only mildly altered styling and no change in size. Like the 2003-2008-generation Matrix, this is essentially a tall-body wagon version of Toyota's Corolla compact sedan, which is also redesigned for 2009. Three Matrix models are available, all with a 4-cylinder engine. The Base model has a 132-hp 1.8-liter engine. S and sporty XRS models have a 158-hp 2.4-liter engine. All come with front-wheel drive; the S is also available with all-wheel drive. The AWD Matrix S comes only with automatic transmission, the others with manual or automatic. AWD S and XRS models have an independent rear suspension. The XRS also has 18-inch wheels versus the others' 16s, plus different suspension tuning and exterior trim. Available safety features include ABS, traction control, antiskid system, curtain side airbags, and front side airbags. All have a tilt and telescopic steering column and split folding rear seatbacks. A navigation system is a first-time Matrix option. Note that the redesigned 2009 Pontiac Vibe is a retrimmed version of the Matrix. This evaluation is based on preview test drives.
this content from http://consumerguideauto.howstuffworks.com/2009-toyota-matrix.htm

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Bon-Aire Original Ultimate Hose Nozzle (Aluminum)

Got this for washing the car and it really lives up to all the good

reviews on the site. The metal parts are sturdy and thoroughly armored by black rubber all around. The problem with most hardware store nozzles is that they always deliver a lower flow of water than just the uncapped hose itself. The Bon-Aire on it's lowest pressure setting mimics the high-flow/low-pressure delivery of an open hose and is great for getting 'sheeting' of the water to occur when rinsing the car after a wash which means less spotting. The spray is continuously adjustable up to a high-pressure stream (very strong) by rotating the collar and you don't have to hold the nozzle in place to maintain the setting -- unlike conventional spring-loaded nozzles. The only thing that takes getting used to is that you have to rotate the collar all the way left or right to shut off the flow, so you won't have the "instant off" action of a normal nozzle if you're working with a setting somewhere in the middle of the range. A perfectly fine trade-off for me given the other great features.

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