Audi releases 2008 TT pricing, offers something for the serious enthusiast

Now here's a car that's both uber stylish and fun: the 2008 Audi TT Coupe.

Audi of America has announced that the 2008 TT coupe 2.0T will have a base price of $35,520, including a $720 destination charge, when it hits showrooms in April. It's $810 more expensive than the outgoing model, but who cares when you have enough money to spend right

Audi says TT roadsters will go on sale in May, with the TT roadster 2.0T starting at $37,520, including shipping, and the 3.2 Quattro roadsters starting at $45,220.

A top-of-the-line 2008 TT meanwhile, will start at $46,620, including destination charge.All 2.0T models will have a 200-horsepower 2.0 TFSI engine mated to a six-speed S tronic gearbox.

The 3.2 Quattro models will feature a 250-hp V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on the 3.2 Quattro, with a six-speed S tronic gearbox optional.

Along with quality Audi parts, standard equipment on the 2008 TT includes automatic climate control, electromechanical power steering, 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry with alarm, cruise control and a leather-wrapped flat-bottom steering wheel, and for the music lovers - the Audi Concert audio system with an in-dash CD changer and MP3 capability.

Meanwhile if you're a really into Audi TT upgrades, why not get your hands on the Abt Sportsline-tuned Audi TT-R, which all but spells "agression"?

The German Audi tuner tweaked the TT model range, topping the lineup with a 355-horsepower TT-R equipped with a VR6 3.2-liter engine that takes the car from zero to 62 mph in 5.1 seconds, versus 5.9 seconds for the standard model. Even the TT with the base 2.0 TFSI engine gets a boost to 270 hp, with maximum torque of 258 pound-feet. The standard model produces 200 hp and 207 lb-ft.

The new 2.0-liter TT was also modified with intelligent Sport technology, which allows the car to be fueled with standard, super or "super plus" gas. The TT-R gets such exterior touches as a four-pipe rear muffler, rear skirt inset and rear wing.

So which Audi is yours?

“Jeep Safe Way to Play” Winter Sport Safety Tips

As a part of their sponsorship for the 2007 Winter X Games, Chrysler Group’s Jeep brand division has teamed up with Dr. John R. Tongue of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons and professional snowboarder Stacy Thomas for the Jeep Safe Way to Play campaign. The campaign aims to provide winter sports enthusiasts and other peeps some safety winter sports safety tips. Here are some of them.

General Winter Sport Safety Tips

* Protect your noggin: Children 12 years and younger should wear helmets when sledding, skiing or snowboarding and everyone should wear a helmet when snowmobiling to prevent head injuries. The most serious sledding injuries and most common skiing injuries result from collisions with fixed objects, such as rocks or trees. Wearing a helmet can help reduce the seriousness of these injuries.

* Use the buddy system: Never participate in winter sports alone. Always select a partner and be sure to stay together when playing outdoors.

* Dress for success: It is important to choose proper clothing when heading outside. Wear layers of light, loose, and water and wind-resistant clothing. The water-resistant outer layers will help keep participants dry when they fall and the layers will accommodate the body's changing temperature. Bright colored clothing is the best because it can be seen at a great distance.

Sledding Tips

* Ride in style: The safest way to ride a sled is to sit in a forward-facing, feet first position. To decrease the chance of injury, avoid sledding downhill head first.

* Think with your head when choosing a sled: Avoid sleds that are made out of thin plastic sheets. They can be pierced and steered by sharp objects that may be buried in the sledding path. The safest sleds are equipped with runners and a steering mechanism.

* Supervise your children: The majority of sledding injuries occur in the areas at the end of a sledding path. Adult supervision is needed to ensure that children sledding down the hill do not collide with other children at the end of the path.

Skiing/Snowboarding Tips

* Fall like a pro: Learning how to fall is just as important as learning how to ski or snowboard. Whenever possible, skiers and snowboarders should fall forward or sideways instead of backwards to decrease the chance of a serious knee injury.

* Watch the weather: Skiers and snowboarders should keep a look out for icy patches and be prepared to make adjustments for ice, deep powder snow and wet snow while on the slope. As snow gets packed down and turns firm, skiing and snowboarding becomes more difficult and runs down the hill become quicker.

* Don't start cold: At the start of each new day, skiers and snowboarders should take a couple of slow runs to warm up their bodies and become familiar with the slopes.

Snowmobiling Tips

* Drive on the right side: When traveling on snowmobile trails always stay to the right - just like driving on the road - and always slow down at the top of a hill, cliff or snow bank to help prevent collisions with oncoming snowmobiles or unforeseen objects.

* Use designated hand signals: It is often difficult to hear over the noise of snowmobiles, so keep the lines of communication open with hand signals. Before heading out with a group, identify hand signals that can be used to tell others when to speed up, slow down, stop, turnaround, etc.

* Leave a note: Before departing on a snowmobile trip, always leave a note describing where you're going, who you're with, when you plan to return, and what equipment you have with you. Leave the note with a friend, at the front desk at a hotel or with someone who will notice if you do not return in a timely manner.

Driving Tips

* Drive slowly: When driving in the snow, do everything slowly. Even when driving vehicles that are equipped with the newest safety features, like the traction control system and electronic stability program that come standard on all Jeep vehicles, drivers should accelerate, turn and break slowly and gently.

* Watch for ice: Be aware of potential icy areas such as shady spots and bridges. Even if it's blue skies and sunny, it's still icy on bridges and in the shade throughout the winter months.

* First Aid Kit: You should keep first aid items (bandages, aspirin, and wraps) in your vehicle in case someone gets injured on their way to or from winter sporting activities.

Driving on the winter season might damage your wheels & rims so you better follow the tips above.

Camry To Get Outdated?

The future of the Toyota Camry could quite follow the tracks left behind by the Oldsmobile Cutlass. And this is going to be no good news.

You see, the Oldsmobile Cutlass became quite obsolete not because there were no more manufacturers of the ignition parts that it needs nor of the performance parts that owners would have liked to add to their vehicle. The thing here is that, the vehicle became obsolete because the vehicle has been popular with one age group and that age group is surely getting older each year.

This could very much happen to the Toyota Camry. In fact, many experts in the field have said that the characteristic of the vehicle is just like the Cutlass. Both are dependable units and both also do provide comfort very well.

When asked, Toyota did not specifically quite answer the question. The only thing that they shared was that they had already targeted the new generations – X and Y – with a new brand which is the Scion.

An inconvenient truth, indeed

Let’s talk environment for now.

Global warming is for real.

In fact, according to a poll by CBS News, many adults in the United States express concerns over climate change, with 70 per cent of respondents think global warming is an environmental problem that is causing a serious impact now.

Well if you’ve watched the film An Inconvenient Truth you’d probably be seriously scared by now. You won’t probably admit it but you probably will think really hard on the merits and demerits of your current set of wheels, and probably about adding those Borla exhausts too.

Bush, in his Jan. 23 State of the Union address, discussed his energy policies saying, "America is on the verge of technological breakthroughs that will enable us to live our lives less dependent on oil. And these technologies will help us be better stewards of the environment, and they will help us to confront the serious challenge of global climate change."

It can be recalled that in 1998, several countries agreed to the Kyoto Protocol, a proposed amendment to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). The agreement commits nations to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. The U.S. signed the protocol but has not ratified it.

And did I mention that studies have already shown that the United States causes 30.3 per cent of all global warming?

2007 Barrett-Jackson Sales Highlight

The Barrett-Jackson Auction Company has successfully held the 36th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event in Scottsdale, Arizona from January 15 to 21, 2007. Over 25,000 in attendance and about 2,850 bidders registered at the event.

Here are some sales highlights at the 36th Annual Barrett-Jackson Collector Car Event.

* Total Sales: nearly $112,000,000

* Total Number of Vehicles Sold: 1,271, including auction showroom sales (1,240 went over auction block)

* Sales Ratio: 100%

* Top 6 Selling cars:

• 1966 Shelby Cobra 427 “Carroll Shelby’s Personal Supersnake”: $5,500,000

• 1954 Dodge Firearrow II Convertible Concept Car: $1,100,000

• 1954 Dodge Firearrow IV Convertible Concept Car: $1,100,000

• 1993 Hummer H1 “CNN’s Warrior One”: $1,000,000

• 1966 Shelby Cobra 427: $935,000

• 1969 Chevrolet Camaro: $880,000

Now for quality auto parts for replacement like Extang BlackMax, visit some of the trusted OEM auto parts stores online.

Awful Tire Smell Away

Almost everybody is complaining about the awful smell of the tire. This odor is that one you smell on your commute daily. You don't have to wear that odd facial expression because Kumho got something just right for you.

The over used tired rubbers have been found out to produce that unpleasant smell. And for years, Kumho has been creating tires that don't give you that burning rubber smell. For example a 400 horsepower Pontiac GTO has been created to send out red smoke. The problem is that only a few sets of those homologation specials were sold, and at a high price – that is, $1995 per tire. Today, Kuhmo is making these tires available at a very reasonable price plus the new tires have been created so as to send off brand awareness to consumers. These tires are also sold in large quantities at a very friendly price.

Of course, the Kumho Ecsta DX Aroma is not a regular tire. It doesn't even smells like rubber. It will be available in lavender, with orange and jasmine scents which will be coming soon.

They are using heat resistant oils on the tires attached to the wheels and to the other auto parts so it stays smelling sweet. Kumho is also promising its followers an even smoother and quiet ride.

Who are the target buyers? Of course everyone, but they are going to more likely target women who are driving vehicles like the Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, Subaru Outback, Chrysler Sebring and the Ford Taurus. The Ecsta DX Aroma will start to be on sale at the first quarter this year with units like 205/60R16 ($119), 215/60R16 ($125) and 235/60R16 ($138).

Ford to Build New Lincoln Crossover

Ford Motor Company has announced and confirmed to some automotive analysts that they will build a seven-passenger crossover vehicle under the Lincoln badge, according to a report from Automotive News.

The report also said that the new Lincoln crossover will share the same specs as the new upcoming Ford crossover vehicle based on the Fairlane concept. Although Ford officials did not revealed the initial image and name of the vehicle, Ford provided the code name D472.

Derrick Kuzak, Ford's Global Product Chief said: “the Lincoln crossover is the best example of the changes that Ford is making in its product development organization. The aim there is to commonize platforms and manufacturing while maintaining distinctive styling.”

“While it shares some hard points with the Fairlane-inspired production vehicle, the Lincoln crossover takes a major departure in styling.” he added.

Well, we should just watch out for this new Lincoln crossover when it rolls out in production and sales someday. Meanwhile, visit your trusted online OEM auto parts store for quality Lincoln parts, Eagle parts, and other auto parts for replacement.

NAIAS Update: The 2008 Nissan Rogue SUV

The long wait is over! Nissan Motor Corporation has finally unveiled its latest concept vehicles, the 2008 Nissan Rogue crossover SUV at this year’s North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit. Nissan said the 2008 Rogue is “designed to add a new dimension to the small crossover utility segment – satisfying both the functional needs of the buyer and their emotional needs”

The all-new 2008 Nissan Rogue will roll out in US dealerships in September with two available model trims - Rogue S and Rogue SL. Both models are equipped with a standard QR25DE 2.5-liter DOHC 4-cylinder engine, Nissan’s advanced Xtronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission), Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC), 16-inch steel wheels and 215/70R16 tires, and 4-wheel disc brakes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS).

Other features include Xenon headlights, power sliding glass sunroof with dark gray glass, and an available roof rail system with detachable crossbars. On the inside, the 2008 Nissan Rogue gets steering wheel-mounted controls include audio, Bluetooth Hands-Free Phone System, cruise control, and Bose-developed audio system with 7 speakers and subwoofer with MP3 capability and satellite radio. A bunch of standard safety systems are also included like Zone Body Construction, Advanced Air Bag System (AABS), Active Head Restraints, and front seat-mounted side-impact supplemental air bags and roof-mounted curtain supplemental air bags.

The 2008 Nissan Rogue will go on sale in September carrying a base price of about $20,000. Sounds like bargain. Meanwhile, try to visit your trusted online aftermarket store for quality auto parts like Titan Cold Air Intake.

Mercedes-Benz 13th Year of Sales Increases

Mercedes-Benz USA on its 13th year of sales increases has achieved its highest annual volume to date when it sold 248,080 vehicles for 2006. Mercedes-Benz has achieved 10.5% increase over the 224,421 units that they sold in 2005.

The remarkable sales increase achieved by Mercedes-Benz can be attributed to their top-of-the-line vehicles specifically the S-class sedan and CL-class coupes which both gained an impressive increase in sales volume for the month of December. The ninth generation S-class gain 56.2% increase while the CL-class achieved an amazing 77%.

The E-class model line has also gained remarkable increase of 12.3% with 7,116 units sold compared to last December 2005’s 6,334 units. Likewise, vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz diesel portfolio namely the CDI and BLUETEC models have also help to increase sales volume.

And for high quality Mercedes-Benz replacement parts like Mercedes tie rod and more purchase from trusted auto parts dealer only.

Safe Driving During Winter

The Christmas season may be over, but the snow and ice it brought along with it isn’t. Make sure you’re safe on the road at all times with these tips from the National Safety Commission for safe driving during the winter season:

Prepare Your Vehicle for Winter Driving: Get your car tuned up and winterized — especially if you plan to travel to a colder climate. Check that you have sufficient antifreeze in your coolant system, that your defrosters and heaters operate efficiently and that your wipers, lights and high beams and warning lights are all working.

Defeat Distraction: Before setting out on the highway, make sure you know how your vehicle's defrosters, wipers and lights work. Don't fiddle with the dashboard to find the ventilation switch or adjust the radio, and don't allow other passengers to distract you from the road.

Be Prepared for Low Visibility Conditions: Winter is the season of fog, rain, sleet, ice and even snow. If you find yourself driving in poor visibility, drive slowly and increase the distance between you and other vehicles. Never use your cruise control while driving in storm or poor visibility conditions.

Look Through Your Windows: Cars often "fog up" during the winter, but simply wiping a porthole to see through is unsafe; use your defrosters and heaters to keep the entire windshield and windows clear.

Know Your Braking System: Be aware of whether your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock brakes, and how this affects your driving in slick conditions. If your car does have anti-lock brakes, remember to press and hold the brakes in a skid, as your vehicle's system will adjust automatically to restore traction. If your car does not have anti-lock brakes, gently pump your brakes in a skid to reduce speed and regain traction.

Stay Ahead of the Weather: Plan your trips carefully and listen to the local weather reports or the National Weather Service for the predicted weather conditions along your travel route. Get the weather report for your route beforehand, or pull over and dial 511 to get the latest Florida road conditions.

Wear Seatbelts: Seatbelts aren't just for children or adults sitting in the front — all passengers should wear seatbelts and children should be placed in age-appropriate child-safety seats. It's the law, and it saves lives.

Have a Designated Driver: Before heading out to holiday parties, choose a designated driver from your group who will lay off the egg nog and make sure everyone gets home safely. Help keep drunk drivers off the road.

Keep an Emergency Kit: It's wise to store some items in your vehicle so they'll be available if you need them. Recommended winter items include a windshield brush, ice scraper, gloves, blankets, extra clothing, a flashlight, batteries, and water. And in all seasons, keep tools and jumper cables in your trunk as well.

Obey Traffic Laws: From speed limits to traffic lights, stop signs to right-of-way, traffic laws keep order on the road and safeguard a system that keeps travelers safe. Breaking traffic laws to save a few minutes isn't worth your safety, and certainly not the safety of other families this holiday season.

Despite the simplicity of these tips, hundreds of accidents occur each year because drivers failed to follow one or more of these safe-driving strategies. This winter, do your part to make sure all of us on the road get home safely for the holidays.

Source: The National Safety Commission