2011 Buick Regal CXL Review

Having been initially introduced by GM in 1973, the Buick Regal was designed and engineered to be a competitor in the mid-sized sedan segment.
The Regal would remain a mainstay in the GM lineup until 2004 when North American production was halted, but it continued to develop and flourish in the Chinese market where it sold exceptionally well.

Well, GM is now reinventing the Buick brand and the Regal mid-size sedan has returned to the stateside for the 2011 model year to help out – but there is an upscale twist to its return. The all-new 2011 Buick Regal is essentially a rebadged Opel Insignia; it is actually manufactured alongside that very same car in the GM subsidiary”s Russelsheim, Germany factory. The return of a classic all-American car however, is anything but an all-American affair; the design, engineering and manufacturing is all German, which to anyone who knows about cars, is certainly a positive thing. So how does an all-German built American Regal stand up to competition the likes of the Acura TSX, Lincoln MKZ, and the Volvo S60? Let”s take a look.

2011 Buick Regal CXL Spec-

Base Price: $26,245.
Price as Tested: $29,035.
Engine: 2.4L Ecotec DOHC SIDI VVT 4-cylinder ”“ 182-hp / 172 lb-ft.
Transmission: 6-speed automatic w/ DSC.
Curb Weight: 3,600 lbs.
0 to 60 mph: 8.2 seconds.
Top Speed: 130 mph.
Fuel-Economy (city/highway): 20/30 mpg.


Interior:

The interior cabin is identical to that of the Insignia, and that is, in our opinion, a very good step on GM”s behalf since it was once known for cheapening out on quality. The German construction really presents itself through the tight fit, strong finish, soft-touch materials, and leather appointments.

Our base 2011 Regal CXL came with chock full of standard interior features including; leather-appointed seating featuring heated front seats, 12-way adjustable driver”s seat (including 4-way lumbar support), tilt/telescopic steering, ample controls located on the steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, USB/MP3 Jack, Bluetooth connectivity, XM satellite radio, and OnStar. These features in a car are impressive when you consider the starting price tag of $26,245 MSRP. A sunroof package is available for an extra $1,000. The Comfort and Convenience package is also available and includes; a 12-way power adjustable front passenger seat, 120-volt AC power outlet and ultrasonic rear parking. Other technology options include a voice-activated navigation system and a premium 9-speaker Harman/Kardon audio system.

A fully loaded Regal, which includes all of the options and packages listed above, will run you $31,030. That is a pretty impressive number considering that most of the Regal”s competition carries starting MSRPs in excess of $29,000; the TSX, MKZ, and S60 start at $29,310, $34,330, and $37,700 respectively.

Exterior:

We mentioned the shared engineering between the Regal and the Insignia, and we feel compelled to mention it again as one of the few primary differences between the two cars when compared side-by-side is the badging. No aspect of the new Regal is reminiscent of the old and we really didn”t expect it to be. This is deliberate according to design director John Cafaro, who says that the new generation is “˜all about great proportions”. “For example, the fenders are flared to wrap around the tires, an aggressive stance that people aren”t used to seeing in recent Buicks,” Cafaro says.

Through and through, the 2011 Regal possesses an air of performance-oriented design, with an aggressively designed front-end, and contrastingly elegant rear-end. Despite the decided “˜German-ness” of this car – even the front license plate bracket is shaped for a German tag – GM did make an effort to “˜Buick-ize” the car for the North American market. The waterfall grille and delicate appointment of chrome trim are two features that are distinctly Buick… and well, that”s about it. But with standard exterior equipment including daytime running lamps, halogen fog lamps, and 18-inch alloy wheels mixed into a sexy German design, we”re not complaining at all.

In terms of exterior appeal and attractiveness, the Regal takes the cake when compared to the Acura TSX or Lincoln MKZ, and we would say shares the cake with its Swedish competitor, the Volvo S60.

Video:

PHOTO GALLERY:

Nissan Teana Review

Nissan has been successful with its cars worldwide but the company hasn’t quite been that successful in the Indian market as yet. This Japanese manufacturer is now quite serious, what with the iconic 370Z to the Micra and hopes to bite into a sizeable portion of the Indian car market. 

Comfort

Nissan Teana can actually be termed as a synonymn to luxury. Leather upholstery and 8-way electronically powered front driver’s seat provides a relaxing drive. The sophisticated wooden interiors and the stylish dashboard gives the sensation of a luxury suite of a 5-star hotel. A highly informative console provides complete visual confirmation of air conditioning settings, outside temperature, audio system and time. It also allows you to monitor the drive computer. The most charming feature is the LED indirect illumination on the center console which makes front passenger and rear door grips shine softly, creating a welcoming interior. The soft-touch buttons and the pampering ottoman-style leg-rest on the front seats to support the lower legs ensures next generation driving luxury.

Safety

Nissan Teana provides world class safety to its passengers. All wheel disc brakes along with ABS and EBD ensure the control of Teana even in unavoidable circumstances. This luxurious sedan is designed to absorb impact. The crushable zones and a safety restraint zone work together with multiple Supplemental Restraint System airbags to avoid and reduce accidental injuries.

Price

Variant                    in Rs.

Nissan Teana XL 21,03,000

Nissan Teana XV 25,40,000

Technical Specifications

Engine

Engine type 2.5L V6 petrol engine

Cylinders 6

Displacement [cm3] 2496cc

Max. Power 132.5 bhp@6000 rpm

Max. Torque 228 Nm@4400 rpm

Transmission

Transmission Type XTRONIC CVT

Brake Front Disc

Brake Rear Disc

Steering System Power Steering

Tyre Size    205/65R16-Tubeless (XL) and 215/55R17-Tubeless (XV)

Body

Body Hatchback

Outside Dimensions

Length [mm]         4850

Width [mm]         1795

Height [mm]         1485

Wheelbase [mm] 2775

Weights

Kerb weight [kg]        1510

Model Variants

Nissan Teana XL

Nissan Teana XV

Color Variants

Onyx Black Pearl

Luna Blue

Amethyst Grey

Pearl White

Brilliant Silver

Bordeaux Red

Striking Features

Smooth Shifting XTRONIC CVT

Modern luxury interiors

Riding comfort

Ample Boot Space

Wider Range of Transmissions

Toyota Etios Car Review

The Etios is to Toyota what the Dzire is to Maruti Suzuki, high hopes and aspirations on the Etios Sedan and the initial huge booking numbers are just the first signs that the strongly indicate that Toyota has got a big winner on their hands.
The Etios twins (Sedan and Hatchback the Liva) happen to be the most talked about car in recent time from the world’s 2nd largest car maker of the world. Read on as we  drive the Toyota Etios VX Sedan to find out how good it really is to get such a huge booking numbers.

Design

The Etios was originally called the EFC, or the Entry Family Car. Etios means Spirit and Principle which Toyota intends to give to its customers in India. More than 2000 engineers in India and Japan have worked in close collaboration for four years to ensure the perfect blend of local design sensibilities and unmatched global quality standards are integrated into the Etios.

The chief engineer of Product Planning at Toyota Mr. Yoshinori Noritake said, "In the process of development of Etios, I have visited many Indian cities and homes to understand the market and interact with customers. The Etios concept will cater to the basic needs of this market - highest standards of quality at competitive prices.

Toyota's new compact cars have been designed to offer innovative styling, roomy interiors, superior ride comfort and best in class mileage at competitive prices. The design concept of 'Bold Simplicity' represents the pursuit of the perfect combination of functionality and affordable luxury. The Etios incorporates advanced technology and superior quality features that have been developed by Toyota, specifically for India, by leveraging the world class innovation that Toyota is globally renowned for.

Interiors
The car is launched in the J, G, V and Vx models (Vx being the top-end model). The VX variant will get a 2DIN DVD Mp3 system which is the first of its kind entertainment system offered in its segment. The VX features audio controls on the steering wheel and a USB and Aux-In facility as well. Some of the other features also include a 13-litre cooled glove box. The J variant has a dual tone - black and grey upholstery and the VX has dual tone black and red upholstery. The low spec J and G variants come with all black upholstery. The sedan also gets a boot space of 595 ltrs which makes it easier to pack in all the goodies for that much needed vacation. The Etios design concept is all about a balance of form and function. It is thoughtfully designed to provied ample legroom & headroom. This is visible in the car as it has a flat floor for the rear - with no transmission tunnel hump, so three people can sit comfortably and move within the cabin with ease. The sedan also gets a centrally mounted instrument cluster. The J variant is so basic that it doesn’t even come with the electric assist power streering. The G, V and VX comes with electric power assist steering.


Safety
The J and G variants will come with 175/65 R14 wheels while the V and VX will be based on 185/60 R15 tyres with 12 spoke alloys. Safety features in the car includes Airbags, ABS with EBD optional on G trim while on the other these safety features will be standard on V and VX trim. The suspension of the sedan will boast of MacPherson struts in the front and a torsion beam at the rear. The safety of the car is enhanced by the front ventilated discs and brake drums at the rear.


Version                                         Ex-Showroom Price
Toyota Etios J                                                                      Rs. 5,04,045
Toyota Etios G                                                                     Rs. 5,53,801
Toyota Etios G Opt                                                              Rs. 6,02,941
Toyota Etios V                                                                     Rs. 6,49,084
Toyota Etios VX                                                                  Rs. 6,94,066


VIEW PHOTO GALLERY CLICK HERE

Fiat Linea T-Jet Review

It could be conveniently said that the Fiat Linea was the first step in the reformation and resurgence of the Italian marque which has had a presence in India for a few decades now. While the Palio was still a car that had a more real world appeal, the model available in India was slightly dated, and nowhere close to the design and style oomph that the Italians have been known to incite amongst car lovers

. With the Linea, the company looked to change its image, and to some extent the C-segment sedan game in India-and it would not be inaccurate if we were to say that Fiat managed to do that to an agreeable extent. More heartening than anything was the fact that a properly Italian compact sedan, with the same drop dead gorgeous looks with which it graces streets in Europe, was available to be used and enjoyed by Indian car lovers.

There was a small bit of a problem though. While the widespread opinion amongst car lovers and automotive journalists around the country seemed to be that the engines that were being offered in the car were lacking power, the same powerplants seemed to work just fine on Tata and Maruti Suzuki cars. We traced the problem to gearboxes with ratios inappropriate for Indian driving conditions ? they just didn?t work well in cohorts with the engines. The cars were still in line with the tenet that India prefers small, frugal engines, but for a vehicle that had inherently great underpinnings and suspension which imparted it with impressive handling and ride quality, the engine-gearbox combinations were game spoilers to a small extent. The shortcoming though is about to solve itself after a year and a half of the car being around, with the entry of the turbocharged, direct injection 1.4-litre T-Jet engine.

Before we get into the nitty-gritties of the car itself, a quick word on Fiat?s T-Jet engine. Based on a direct-injection technology in which fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber as opposed to in the manifold, the T-Jet family of engines subscribes to the new philosophy of European manufacturers opting to maximize the potential of small displacement engines. Volkswagen has been following a similar approach to petrol engines with its TFSI technology, and despite initial reservations the new way of treating fuel has taken off this side of the Atlantic in a big way. What seals the case massively in the favour of turbocharged direct injection is the responsiveness it imparts to engines ? from big torque of good driveability and fuel efficiency, to the high revving performance one would expect from a petrol mill. And all this with big savings in fuel and emissions, thanks to cleaner and more efficient burning inside the cylinderse.

The introductory drive of the Linea with its new powerplant took the cardunia team to the airstrip at the Amby Valley City at Lonavla near Pune. While testing and experiencing the car on a 1.5 kilometre straight with cones thrown in to test the car?s response to change in direction was far from the perfect way to evaluate the new car, it did bring a lot of things into stark notice. To start with, the quickness of the T-Jet engine in a straight line is encouraging. We?ll still need to subject it to real words roads, in different gears and over different gradients, but preliminary impressions are good. The figures on paper are interesting too ? pumped by a 2.2 bar turbo, the 1.4-litre T-Jet engine makes 114PS of power at a high 5000 rpm, but also manages to churn out a startling 207Nm of torque, which is commendable for a small-displacement petrol engine. The T-Jet version also gets bigger 16-inch wheels and wider 205/55 tyres, which should aid handling sufficiently for the enhanced speeds.

In a nutshell, the experience when compared to the current versions of the Linea is much more exciting, and looks further in the direction of customer satisfaction, especially so for performance minded buyers. Our final tests on real roads and surfaces will be more telling, and the ultimate judgment on the car will depend on how Fiat prices the car, so log on to www.cardunia.blogspot.com for our report on the car, real soon!

Nissan Micra Car Review in India

Read latest review on new Nissan Micra cars in India. Make a detailed research on Nissan Micra by knowing its features, specifications and highlights before making up your mind on buying a new Nissan Micra for you.

* Fuel Economy 18.6 km/l (Overall), 1.2L I-3 Petrol Available Engines 1.2L I-3, 74.9 bhp, Petrol Available Transmissions 5-speed Manual Transmission (MT)

* Estimated values may differ under various conditions.

Overview

Following the launches of the X-Trail and Teana, Japan's third largest auto maker launched its iconic sports car 370Z in India. All these cars managed to redefine the standards of automotive excellence in their respective segments. Now, to cater to the highly competitive small car segment, Nissan offers the all-new Nissan Micra based on the ground-breaking 'V' platform. The Nissan Micra is a true global car as it will be manufactured in four plants across the world and will be exported globally. However, the Micra is a product that has been specifically designed keeping in mind the discerning consumer needs of India. The car will showcase an excellent combination of newer generation avant-garde technology, outstanding design and highly developed features.

The car is available in 4 variants; the XE, XL, the XE Plus which comes with factory-fitted accessories and the advanced XV. The six blazing colours that the Micra puts on to draw attention towards itself are Sunlight Orange, Blade Silver, Storm White, Pacific Blue, Onyx Black and Brick Red.

 Performance

Nissan Micra comes in a single engine variant - 1.2 litre petrol with 3 in-line cylinders. The powerful engine can churn out a maximum power of 75 bhp @ 6000 RPM and will give you a maximum torque of 104 Nm @ 4000 RPM. Paired with the engine is a five speed manual transmission. Micra boasts of optimum performance, ride and handling combined with agility and refinement.

Mounted on the Nissan's new signature V-platform, the suspension minimizes intrusion and takes on well to the Indian roads. The suspension set up comprises of McPherson Strut at the front and torsion beam at the rear. The cute looking hatchback also offers a great fuel economy of 18.06 kmpl.

Build & Styling

When it comes to interior & exterior style and features, Nissan Micra scores better than most of it contemporaries. Nissan Micra is a global car and hence the look is more international and also has a touch of sophistication.

Nissan Micra is adorned with stylish headlamps and fog lamps which are strategically placed next to the front grille. Body coloured bumpers, door mirrors add extra style to the Nissan hatch. Also featured in the car are sporty Bumpers, body colour door handles and tinted front headlamps covers.

The interior of the Micra feels quite spacious, thanks to its extra long wheelbase which enables a 'wheels-at-each-corner' stance. The hatchback can comfortably seat 5 adults and the 226 litre boot can accommodate two small bags and few small items.

The Micra hatch is available with attractive interiors featuring dual tone attractive dashboard that houses the advance instrument cluster including Drive Computer, digital clock and tachometer. The advance features in the Micra include electric power steering with tilt adjustment, climate control AC, comfortable seats, electric speed sensitive front and rear power windows, door ajar warning lamp, low fuel warning lamp, passenger side front and rear grab handles, rear sliding seat with 60:40 Split, electric heated door mirrors, driver and passenger vanity mirror and front map reading light.

Nissan's concept of safety shield is reflected in the Micra. The Nissan Micra has a full assortment of safety features such as driver and front passenger airbags, engine immobilizer, ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, and security alarm system. Central Door Lock, Remote Keyless Entry and Intelligent Key With Push Button Ignition features are also available in the top end variant of the car.

PHOTO GALLERY Of Nissan Micra Click here

2012 Audi A7 Review By Autoweek.com

Car Reviews :Audi A7
What is it?

An all-new entry to Audi's lineup, the 2012 A7 follows the pattern set by the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Porsche Panamera and the BMW 5-series Gran Turismo. It's a four-door, but with its swooping roofline and hatchback rear end, its shape resembles a coupe more than sedan.

The A7 sits on a stretched A6 chassis, with a wheelbase that splits the difference between it and the larger A8. And, it comes chock-full of all of the technical and luxury goodies we've come to expect from the German company: safety systems such as lane-departure warning and night vision; sophisticated controls such as an enhanced MMI system that now includes a laptop-style touchpad, Internet connectivity and Google Earth mapping, and a sensory-pleasing interior with a bentwood furniture-like trim treatment using layered wood veneers.

Its face is unmistakably Audi, too, with the familial two-tiered grille and LED lights rimming the headlamps. Overall, we love the styling of the A7 and put it just a notch behind the gorgeous Mercedes in the battle for most beautiful of the bunch.


Car Reviews :Audi A7

What's it like to drive?

U.S.-specification vehicles will come equipped with the familiar 3.0-liter supercharged TFSI V6 engine, pushing out 300 hp to all four corners via Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system. We found the power easy to get to, and the surge during passing maneuvers is more than satisfying. Ride and handling feel very similar to the A6, taut and responsive, with communicative and nicely weighted steering.

We did find a bit of tire thump made its way into the otherwise serene and isolated passenger compartment, particularly from the rear (our test car rode on optional 20-inch rubber), but we chalk that up to the hatchback design. However, the utility offered by the large cargo hold--almost 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat--more than makes up for the minor noise intrusion.

The final word on the A7's performance will have to wait until we can try out the eight-speed Multitronic automatic; the test vehicles provided by Audi came solely with the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch boxes, and ultimate feel and performance may differ a bit. We expect a 0-to-60-mph time of about 6.0 seconds.

Do I want it?

If you love the look of this new breed of not-quite-coupe sedans, could use the extra utility offered by a hatchback, enjoy the supercharged performance of Audi's direct-injection engines and get geeky over the thought of 3D Google Earth mapping pointing you in the right direction--but only have need for four seats--then the Audi A7 deserves a look.

Need more incentive? The A7 also features an autostop function, shutting the engine off and saving fuel at stoplights. Of course, all that beauty and tech doesn't come cheaply. Look for the A7 to carry a sticker of close to $60,000 when the cars start showing up in dealerships sometime next spring.

2012 Audi A7

On Sale: Second-quarter 2011

Base Price: $59,900 (est)

Drivetrain: 3.0-liter, 300-hp, 325-lb-ft supercharged V6; AWD, eight-speed automatic

Curb Weight: 4,500 lb (est)

0-60 MPH: 6.0 sec (AW est)

Fuel Economy (EPA): 21 mpg (est).


Car Reviews : Audi A7

Original Article

2012 Audi A7 Review By Autoweek.com

Car Reviews :Audi A7
What is it?

An all-new entry to Audi's lineup, the 2012 A7 follows the pattern set by the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Porsche Panamera and the BMW 5-series Gran Turismo. It's a four-door, but with its swooping roofline and hatchback rear end, its shape resembles a coupe more than sedan.

The A7 sits on a stretched A6 chassis, with a wheelbase that splits the difference between it and the larger A8. And, it comes chock-full of all of the technical and luxury goodies we've come to expect from the German company: safety systems such as lane-departure warning and night vision; sophisticated controls such as an enhanced MMI system that now includes a laptop-style touchpad, Internet connectivity and Google Earth mapping, and a sensory-pleasing interior with a bentwood furniture-like trim treatment using layered wood veneers.

Its face is unmistakably Audi, too, with the familial two-tiered grille and LED lights rimming the headlamps. Overall, we love the styling of the A7 and put it just a notch behind the gorgeous Mercedes in the battle for most beautiful of the bunch.


Car Reviews :Audi A7

What's it like to drive?

U.S.-specification vehicles will come equipped with the familiar 3.0-liter supercharged TFSI V6 engine, pushing out 300 hp to all four corners via Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system. We found the power easy to get to, and the surge during passing maneuvers is more than satisfying. Ride and handling feel very similar to the A6, taut and responsive, with communicative and nicely weighted steering.

We did find a bit of tire thump made its way into the otherwise serene and isolated passenger compartment, particularly from the rear (our test car rode on optional 20-inch rubber), but we chalk that up to the hatchback design. However, the utility offered by the large cargo hold--almost 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat--more than makes up for the minor noise intrusion.

The final word on the A7's performance will have to wait until we can try out the eight-speed Multitronic automatic; the test vehicles provided by Audi came solely with the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch boxes, and ultimate feel and performance may differ a bit. We expect a 0-to-60-mph time of about 6.0 seconds.

Do I want it?

If you love the look of this new breed of not-quite-coupe sedans, could use the extra utility offered by a hatchback, enjoy the supercharged performance of Audi's direct-injection engines and get geeky over the thought of 3D Google Earth mapping pointing you in the right direction--but only have need for four seats--then the Audi A7 deserves a look.

Need more incentive? The A7 also features an autostop function, shutting the engine off and saving fuel at stoplights. Of course, all that beauty and tech doesn't come cheaply. Look for the A7 to carry a sticker of close to $60,000 when the cars start showing up in dealerships sometime next spring.

2012 Audi A7

On Sale: Second-quarter 2011

Base Price: $59,900 (est)

Drivetrain: 3.0-liter, 300-hp, 325-lb-ft supercharged V6; AWD, eight-speed automatic

Curb Weight: 4,500 lb (est)

0-60 MPH: 6.0 sec (AW est)

Fuel Economy (EPA): 21 mpg (est).


Car Reviews : Audi A7

Original Article

2012 Audi A7 Review By Autoweek.com

Car Reviews :Audi A7
What is it?

An all-new entry to Audi's lineup, the 2012 A7 follows the pattern set by the Mercedes-Benz CLS, the Porsche Panamera and the BMW 5-series Gran Turismo. It's a four-door, but with its swooping roofline and hatchback rear end, its shape resembles a coupe more than sedan.

The A7 sits on a stretched A6 chassis, with a wheelbase that splits the difference between it and the larger A8. And, it comes chock-full of all of the technical and luxury goodies we've come to expect from the German company: safety systems such as lane-departure warning and night vision; sophisticated controls such as an enhanced MMI system that now includes a laptop-style touchpad, Internet connectivity and Google Earth mapping, and a sensory-pleasing interior with a bentwood furniture-like trim treatment using layered wood veneers.

Its face is unmistakably Audi, too, with the familial two-tiered grille and LED lights rimming the headlamps. Overall, we love the styling of the A7 and put it just a notch behind the gorgeous Mercedes in the battle for most beautiful of the bunch.


Car Reviews :Audi A7

What's it like to drive?

U.S.-specification vehicles will come equipped with the familiar 3.0-liter supercharged TFSI V6 engine, pushing out 300 hp to all four corners via Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system. We found the power easy to get to, and the surge during passing maneuvers is more than satisfying. Ride and handling feel very similar to the A6, taut and responsive, with communicative and nicely weighted steering.

We did find a bit of tire thump made its way into the otherwise serene and isolated passenger compartment, particularly from the rear (our test car rode on optional 20-inch rubber), but we chalk that up to the hatchback design. However, the utility offered by the large cargo hold--almost 50 cubic feet with the rear seats folded flat--more than makes up for the minor noise intrusion.

The final word on the A7's performance will have to wait until we can try out the eight-speed Multitronic automatic; the test vehicles provided by Audi came solely with the seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch boxes, and ultimate feel and performance may differ a bit. We expect a 0-to-60-mph time of about 6.0 seconds.

Do I want it?

If you love the look of this new breed of not-quite-coupe sedans, could use the extra utility offered by a hatchback, enjoy the supercharged performance of Audi's direct-injection engines and get geeky over the thought of 3D Google Earth mapping pointing you in the right direction--but only have need for four seats--then the Audi A7 deserves a look.

Need more incentive? The A7 also features an autostop function, shutting the engine off and saving fuel at stoplights. Of course, all that beauty and tech doesn't come cheaply. Look for the A7 to carry a sticker of close to $60,000 when the cars start showing up in dealerships sometime next spring.

2012 Audi A7

On Sale: Second-quarter 2011

Base Price: $59,900 (est)

Drivetrain: 3.0-liter, 300-hp, 325-lb-ft supercharged V6; AWD, eight-speed automatic

Curb Weight: 4,500 lb (est)

0-60 MPH: 6.0 sec (AW est)

Fuel Economy (EPA): 21 mpg (est).


Car Reviews : Audi A7

Original Article

Car Reviews : 2010 MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet by Automobile

As delivered by the factory, Audi's S5 Cabriolet makes for a charismatic convertible. Although lacking the V-8 grunt of its fixed-roof sibling, it offers an enticing combination of power and style, yet is comfortable and benign enough to use as a daily driver. Is there any way to improve upon Ingolstadt's invention?

Moteren Technik Meyer, or MTM, certainly thinks so. The heralded German tuning firm feels a few subtle tweaks can turn Audi's shapely roadster from mild to wild.

Arguably, the most significant modification lurks within the electrical system. MTM's M-Cantronic engine controller contains the recalibrated engine computer mapping that allow drivers to explorer new frontiers with Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter V-6.

In stock form, the 3.0T engine produces a commendable 333 horsepower between 5500-7000 rpm, and 325 pound-feet of torque at 2900-5300 rpm. Install MTM's tuning module and a new exhaust system, and those figures jump to an impressive 430 horsepower and 379 pound feet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet

MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet



The modifications are mild, perhaps, but it still takes both skill and finesse to implement them in a seamless fashion. MTM's execution is flawless; everything looks, feels, and functions as if it were engineered by Audi itself. Cars equipped with Audi's Drive Select controller, for instance, still retain their variable settings; MTM's 430 horsepower is only fully unleashed once the driver selects the sport setting.

Full review here..

Car Reviews : 2010 MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet by Automobile

As delivered by the factory, Audi's S5 Cabriolet makes for a charismatic convertible. Although lacking the V-8 grunt of its fixed-roof sibling, it offers an enticing combination of power and style, yet is comfortable and benign enough to use as a daily driver. Is there any way to improve upon Ingolstadt's invention?

Moteren Technik Meyer, or MTM, certainly thinks so. The heralded German tuning firm feels a few subtle tweaks can turn Audi's shapely roadster from mild to wild.

Arguably, the most significant modification lurks within the electrical system. MTM's M-Cantronic engine controller contains the recalibrated engine computer mapping that allow drivers to explorer new frontiers with Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter V-6.

In stock form, the 3.0T engine produces a commendable 333 horsepower between 5500-7000 rpm, and 325 pound-feet of torque at 2900-5300 rpm. Install MTM's tuning module and a new exhaust system, and those figures jump to an impressive 430 horsepower and 379 pound feet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet

MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet



The modifications are mild, perhaps, but it still takes both skill and finesse to implement them in a seamless fashion. MTM's execution is flawless; everything looks, feels, and functions as if it were engineered by Audi itself. Cars equipped with Audi's Drive Select controller, for instance, still retain their variable settings; MTM's 430 horsepower is only fully unleashed once the driver selects the sport setting.

Full review here..

Car Reviews : 2010 MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet by Automobile

As delivered by the factory, Audi's S5 Cabriolet makes for a charismatic convertible. Although lacking the V-8 grunt of its fixed-roof sibling, it offers an enticing combination of power and style, yet is comfortable and benign enough to use as a daily driver. Is there any way to improve upon Ingolstadt's invention?

Moteren Technik Meyer, or MTM, certainly thinks so. The heralded German tuning firm feels a few subtle tweaks can turn Audi's shapely roadster from mild to wild.

Arguably, the most significant modification lurks within the electrical system. MTM's M-Cantronic engine controller contains the recalibrated engine computer mapping that allow drivers to explorer new frontiers with Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter V-6.

In stock form, the 3.0T engine produces a commendable 333 horsepower between 5500-7000 rpm, and 325 pound-feet of torque at 2900-5300 rpm. Install MTM's tuning module and a new exhaust system, and those figures jump to an impressive 430 horsepower and 379 pound feet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet

MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet


MTM Audi S5 Cabriolet



The modifications are mild, perhaps, but it still takes both skill and finesse to implement them in a seamless fashion. MTM's execution is flawless; everything looks, feels, and functions as if it were engineered by Audi itself. Cars equipped with Audi's Drive Select controller, for instance, still retain their variable settings; MTM's 430 horsepower is only fully unleashed once the driver selects the sport setting.

Full review here..