AWD Vs 4WD: Choosing a Traction Control System for Your Next Car

By Vin Hale

In some parts of the U.S. the vehicle traction system competition is almost pointless. There is little merit in comparing AWD vs 4WD systems in areas where the weather is always pleasant and it never dumps mountains of snow or there is rarely a torrential downpour. For other parts of the nation though the type of traction system you have in your vehicle matters a great deal. Take the New England states for example where AWD vehicles are quite popular for getting around on the frequently snow-covered and slick rural roads.

There has been a great deal of progress from tire makers in developing better tires specifically for the challenges of winter weather. Different tread patterns and adjustments to tire rubber compounds can help a lot but nothing works quite like adding an extra set of driving wheels. The best AWD and 4WD vehicles combine the enhanced traction of extra drive wheels with a smartly designed torque distribution system that is able to apportion power to the wheels that have the best traction and are in a position to get the vehicle moving with the most efficiency.

While the term 4WD tends to be applied more towards vehicles that have the capability to manually control the drive system via a lever or button in the interior. Usually all wheel drive is used in reference to vehicles that power all four wheels at all times but use a system of power distribution to intelligently send power to the wheels that can make best use of it at the moment.

The level of usefulness that you will get out of the AWD or 4WD system in your particular vehicle depends in large part on the work that went into it in the design process. Some companies seem to be able to do a superior job at designing traction systems that get the power to the road in the most effective possible manner. Audi is a pioneer in this area and their vehicles are quite popular. A relative newcomer who has been able to set some new standards in all wheel drive cars is Acura whose SH-AWD system is very impressive with it's ability to send power from one side of the vehicle to the other as well as merely apportioning it between the front and rear.

A great way to get an idea what traction system work well in practical applications is to check out what people who live in snowy parts of the nation are using. This isn't particularly scientific but if people who live with multiple feet of snow much of the year are favoring a particular brand and type of AWD car then there may be a reason why it is so popular.

Another thing to keep in mind about the AWD vs 4WD issue is whether the extra weight and parts of an AWD system will have much of an effect on fuel economy in your chosen model. You can find out more about AWD and 4 wheel drive vehicles right here: http://awdvs4wd.com.

Can I Buy A Car If I Am Collecting Unemployment?

By Mike Reitz

In today's economy many people are laid off from their jobs and are allowed to collect unemployment while they will look for new work. Unemployment benefits are temporary and cannot be considered for long-term income when a lender is considering loaning you money.

However, you may have the potential to qualify for a loan when you're collecting unemployment, if you have good credit to start with. Each individual and their circumstances are different. If you have another source of income and losing your job and collecting benefits is not a hardship or burden. Then you may be considered for a new car loan.

A person can only collect unemployment benefits for a maximum of 99 weeks, as of January 2011. Therefore unemployment cannot be considered as a reliable source of income, and may hamper your efforts in getting a car loan. Car loans today, generally have payments that last anywhere from 3 to 5 years; the majority of lenders will not grant a loan based on someone's temporary unemployment benefits.

To get approved for a car loan, an individual must prove to a lender that he or she is financially capable of paying back the loan. If your unemployment is the only income you have to live on then chances are you can't afford a car payment.

Even subprime lenders or high risk lenders, that generally loan to people with poor or bad credit, are very unlikely to grant a car loan based on someone's unemployment benefits.

You may find a car dealer who was willing to put this type of loan together for an outrageous interest rate and down payment. The dealer may sell you a car that is way overpriced, with a large down payment, and an interest rate that could exceed 25 percent. This type of deal only benefits the dealer and not you the buyer.

Even if the dealer has to repossess your vehicle in a few months, they don't care because they will just turn around and sell the car again to someone else in a similar situation.

If you are in dire need of a car and can't qualify because of your unemployment benefits, you may want to consider a home equity loan, or an existing line of credit. It is not always wise to use a home equity line of credit. These type of loans can lead to excessive debt if used unwisely and cause you future problems financially.

If you absolutely must have a car then buy one for cash ($2,000 or less) to get you by until you start your new job. That way you won't be adding debt to your financial situation while looking for another job.

A Locksmith Company and What They Do

By Kyle MacDonald

For most people living in the USA today, on average a person will use a locksmith company twice a year. That might not seem much but those times are normally during high stress times. During holidays and during the summer months, local locksmiths are on called most often. That make total sense because people are traveling to and from family and friends homes. It can become quite stressful if you are in charge of presents, food, party supplies, games, or even simply ice. When ever that time comes, everyone has become more and more prone to accidents like misplacing keys or locking them in a car or home.

Since everyone will do it once or twice a year it is important to find a great car locksmith company that will suit your needs. Not every locksmith is the same. Some don't do safe locks or keypads or some are only residential locksmith or car locksmith. It is important to know of that because if you simply call and ask them to come out, they will charge you just for that. Most professional locksmiths are skilled enough to properly handle all types of locks that you may have.

Most of the professional and licensed car locksmith, that are not scams, have many skills. Key duplication, lock repair, key cutting, installing locks, and re key locks are just a few to name. A locksmith company can do all of that plus car key programming, car door unlocking, home unlocking, and even keypad programming. All locksmiths should be able to do all of these skills.

What you need to look for in locksmiths around your local area is quite simple. Think about what car locksmith companies you know of off the top of your head. That locksmith company is sticking out in your head because you already know that these locksmiths are reputable. If you can't seem to look any up use your local yellow pages book or use a search engine to find out a great company. Or simply ask a friend or neighbor for a great locksmith company that they recommend.

After you have found your car locksmith or other need for opening locks, call them for a quote on your task at hand so you don't waste their time and yours as well. A locksmith company will gladly give you a quote and an estimated time of arrival to your location.

Now take all of that into account and do the research before it is too late and you find yourself in one of the stressful situations and find yourself in need to call a locksmith company.

BMW M5 E39 Versus BMW M5 E60

By Ivan Rudnitsky

What looks like a four door sedan, but drives like a sports car? Well... the first car that comes to mind is the BMW M5. The M5 has always been a favorite of mine because it's an excellent mix of luxury and solid performance. This vehicle can transport you and three of your friends comfortably from point A to point B. However, the beauty of the M5 is that you can always choose to throw comfort out the window and give your friends a scare of a lifetime!

In a nutshell, the M5 is one of the most practical race cars ever made, if not the most. It has four doors, all the creature comforts of a BMW, seating for five, a huge engine and handles like a dream. In our video review, we drive two of the more recent generations, the 2003 E39 M5 and the 2010 E60 M5. Both are very fast cars, but the way they carry themselves is very different.

About the M5

The 2003 E39 M5 is the last year BMW built that generation of the M5 and is the best year for that model. Earlier E39 models had problems with the Vanos timing systems (which were expensive to repair), issues with carbon buildup and a couple of other minor things. However, in 2003 all the wrinkles have been ironed out and the car was near perfection.

The E39 M5 has a 4.9 liter V8 that produces approximately 400 hp at 6,600 rpm and 369 lb-ft of torque at 3,800 rpm and redlines at 7,000 rpm. Despite a curb weight of 4,000 lbs, the E39 M5 can hit 0-60 mph in 5.0 seconds according to official performance specs, but some have claimed they could consistently hit 0-60 mph times of 4.5 seconds. Additionally, the car is very well balanced and handles like a dream and gives the driver good feedback. I used to take mine out to the mountains and I was not afraid to push it on the curvy mountain roads following a group of M3s, which is not an easy feat.

The 2010 E60 M5 is also the last year BMW built that generation of the M5 and is likely the best year. Earlier E60 models had issues with the iDrive system and the 7-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG) III, but after a series of upgrades, these issues seem to have gone away.

The E60 M5 has a 5.0 liter V10 that produces approximately 500 hp at 7,750 rpm and 383 lb-ft of torque at 6,100 rpm and redlines at 8,250 rpm. Although the E60 M5 also has a curb weight of approximately 4,000 lbs, the massive power upgrade propels it from 0-60 mph in only 4.8 seconds. What's interesting about the two is that, up until 60 mph, both M5s are nearly neck and neck. However, the E60 M5 starts to pull away quickly after the 60 mph mark, and it keeps going and going. What's more interesting is that the E39 M5 feels faster as the car's peak torque is achieved at a much lower rpm (3,800 rpm versus 6,100 rpm for the E60 M5) and hits the driver instantly, whereas with the E60 the driver has to be a little more patient.

Uniqueness of the M5

Both of these M5s are very rare, to be specific, only 20,482 E39 M5s were built from 1999-2003 compared to total BMW worldwide production during the same period of 3,544,234. That means that the M5 represented only ~0.6% of total production during the same time frame. However, despite all of the unnecessary criticism from hardcore enthusiasts, the E60 M5 was the most successful M5 yet with 20,548 units sold from 2006-2010. However, total BMW worldwide production during the same four-year period increased to 5,957,170 lowering M5 production as a percentage of total production to ~0.3%. So technically, the E60 M5 is rarer than the E39.

Interior & Technology

When I look at cars I want to buy, I put a much greater weight on performance and a very small weight on the interior, but nonetheless an attractive and comfortable interior does matter. That said, I like both interiors but my preference goes to the newer E60 styling and technology.

The E39 interior is comfortable enough, but less ergonomic relative to the E60 and, as you would imagine, has much less going on in the technology department. The seats are comfortable but the leather is not as soft as the E60's. However, the overall appearance of the E39 interior is attractive and I personally like the more contemporary look of the brushed aluminum trim rather than a wood trim. It just makes you feel younger.

The E60 interior is more ergonomic as everything is positioned to conform better to your body. For example, the door hand rest has a downward sloping angle towards the front of the car and is more comfortable relative to the flat hand rest in the E39. BMW took this concept and applied it the other interior features making the driving experience all that much better in terms of comfort when compared to the prior generation (E39).

Both cars have navigation, heated seats, dual zone climate control, interior active charcoal air filters, a premium sound system, rain sensors, driver seat/wheel/mirror position memorization and a lot of the other standard creature comforts that you normally get in a BMW. However, the E60 has a far more advanced user interface which is called the iDrive system. It includes a much better navigation system and multimedia management system which can store mp3s, play CDs and easily play music on a connected mp3 player. I am also a big fan of the Bluetooth connectivity, which did not come in the E39 model.

Another impressive E60 feature is the customization ability of the performance settings. For example, you can program the car's horsepower to increase to 500 hp from the default 400 hp and have the suspension go to the stiffest setting from comfort when you press the "M" button on the steering wheel. The beauty is that you can adjust these settings to fit your driving style. Additionally, I am a big fan of the heads up display for speed and rpm that pops up when the "M" button is engaged.

Performance

After I had the chance to drive both cars, I noticed that the E39 was more of a "brute force" type of car whereas the E60 felt more like a "gentleman's car." The clutch pedal in the E39 was a lot tougher to press, the steering felt more "responsive" and the throttle response was instant as the torque hits you a lot quicker due to the E39's low rpm max torque peak (at 3,800 rpm) compared to the E60 (6,100 rpm). In fact, at first I was actually misled by thinking the E39 was just as fast as the E60. However, despite the fact that everything (clutch, seats, steering, etc.) in the E60 feels more comfortable, when put head-to-head with the E39, the "gentleman" actually spanks "brute force" after 60 mph and I believe that a good driver can also spank the E39 from 0-60 mph.

In terms of top speed, both of the cars have an electronic limiter at 155 mph, but when removed the E39 can achieve 186 mph while the V10 E60 can hit a max of a whopping 204 mph. I think top speeds are very impressive given that we are talking about four-door family sedans here, not a Ferrari. What's also impressive is how fast these cars keep accelerating past 100 mph, it just keeps going and going and going. It makes you wanna keep going to see how high it can go.

Conclusion

At first, I liked the E39 M5 better than the E60 M5, but after two days of driving, my preference for brute performance was abolished by the more comfortable yet solid performance of the E60 M5. Anyways, enough reading. To watch the video go ahead and visit our website at CarNecks.com.

Car Dolly Rental - What You Need to Know Before Renting a Tow Dolly

By Chris Kai

Car Dolly Rental Options

Renting a tow dolly to transport your car is a great method of cheap auto transport for people who want to transport their vehicle in a cost-effective manner. However, there are some things that we should know about tow dolly rental and usage before we just go forth, rent any old tow dolly, and tow our vehicle across the country.

First of all, we should look into all of the various car dolly rental options that are available to us. There are several different companies that rent car dollies for auto transport needs, and it would be wise to make a careful comparison of the pros and cons of each company. And before renting a tow dolly, you may also want to consider purchasing your own new or used dolly. This may be a good idea if you often transport your vehicle(s) from one place to another. But even if you only plan on towing your car for one move, it may be a good idea to consider buying a used dolly.

Now, you're probably wondering, "Why would I buy a car tow dolly for a one-way trip when I can just rent one?" Well, dolly rental rates are often fairly expensive. If you're towing your car to a far-away destination and planning on taking some time to get there, the rental rates can really add up. Many people have had success finding a used dolly, transporting their car to their destination, and then selling their car dolly upon arrival. If you keep the dolly in good condition, you may even be able to break even! You may want to try out this cool trick next time you want to transport your car without spending too much money.

Basic Car Tow Dolly Usage Guidelines

Another very important point is that you absolutely must make sure that using a dolly for towing is suitable for your specific vehicle. Some cars are not meant to be towed using a tow dolly and should be towed with a trailer instead. Car dollies are mostly suitable for towing front-wheel drive cars, as only free-rolling wheels will be touching the ground during towing. This minimizes the risk of transmission damage (which can end be very very expensive to deal with!). It is possible to tow other types of vehicles, but you may need to take some extra steps to ensure your vehicle does not suffer damage. So, make sure your car is suitable to be towed using a tow dolly before your trip and that you go through all the proper preparations.

And, as always, observe all standard road safety and towing safety guidelines. We hope your car dolly rental is successful, and wish you a safe journey!

For more detailed info on Car Dolly Rental, please check out www.towdollyrental.net. You'll find tow company comparisons, towing tips, and many other resources!

Countdown of the UK's Most Classic and Desirable Cars

By Rebecca F Kelly

The Porsche, Lamborghini, Koenigsegg, Bentley, Aston Martin DB9; all beautiful cars that we all hope to someday have sitting slyly on our mile long driveway in front of our big, breathtaking abode in the suburbs. These are of course highly desirable for their smooth appearance and speed, but official statistics of 2011 show how individuals are finding more affordable desirables to purchase as their own.

Founder of 2,720 homes so far, carrier of families and its heritage dating from 1973, the Volkswagen Passat came in at tenth place. The beautifully built car offers a wide audience of homes from travellers, business men/women and large families. With the safe and comfortable range of intelligent technology, it is no wonder why individuals have chosen this cosy and collected car as most desirable to them and their needs.

Closing in at ninth, is the BMW Perennial favourite, the 3 series. Much recognition and awards have been given towards this vehicle such as being in 'Car and Driver' magazine's annual 'Ten Best' cars list for a vast amount of twenty times from 1992 through to 2011. Why would anyone doubt purchasing the longest running entry of the list? Therefore, a quantity of 3,133 of this charming car has been sold across the UK so far in 2011.

With 3,738 registered, electrically operated windows and door mirrors, heated front seats, air conditioning, electronic stability programme, rain sensor wipers, auto lighting, cruise control, on-board computer and ambient lighting; the special and very smart Nissan Qashqai comes eighth in the top ten most desirable cars in the UK. The user-friendliness of this car is known to be a comfortable experience that truly illuminates its value.

The seventh most desirable car as of now in the UK is known for its 'groundbreaking design and sophisticated technology' and comes in three attractive body styles for you to choose from. The Vauxhall Insignia invites you to a superbly smooth ride in one of its three vehicles; the Insignia 4-door Saloon offers top technology and all round comfort to the driver and passengers, the Insignia 5-door hatchback provides generous interior space and visual dynamics, and the Insignia Sports Tourer portrays a perfect equilibrium of capacity and style. This vehicle rode home with 3,912 buyers this year.

Sliding in to sixth place with 4,500 units registered is the Volkswagen Polo. This stylish transportation provides free incentives including insurance and servicing offers. It is known for its rewarding value to the driver and passengers and the brilliant fuel economy. Volkswagen personally sees it as an 'impeccable build quality you'd expect from Volkswagen and an impressive five star Euro NCAP safety system.'

The Ford Focus has forced its way into fifth place with 4,843 units registered in 2011. Desired for its dynamic styling, intuitive technologies and precision-engineered performance, the Ford Focus is proving to be one of the most desirable cars in the UK. Many individuals find the driving experience a positive one with the advantage for the environment of low C02 emissions and low fuel consumption.

With 4,888 sold in the UK half way through 2011, the Corsa has driven straight to fourth place as most desirable car. The Vauxhall Corsa often shows a solitary attention to detail and like the Vauxhall Insignia, provides a choice as to what type of the design you have. Often noticed as a car used by driving schools and perfect for new drivers, this light and pleasant ride is suitable to all.

The Vauxhall success story does not stop there however, continuing this role in third place as the most popular and desired car in the UK is the Vauxhall Astra. With powerful looks, performance and personality, this car attracts a wide audience. However, the attraction does not stop there, buyers can now 'build' their own Astra by choosing the trim, engine and colour to personalise their new gift. This car only missed out on second place by a mere 73 cars. According to Vauxhall, 'the New Astra is about to re-energise the compact class.'

Gaining closer to the first and most popular and desirable car in the UK, the VW Golf misses out with statistics showing 4,973 units being shifted. It is known to represent great value and although did not make first place, Volkswagen have three cars within the top most desirable in the UK.

Accelerating to be the first most popular, most desirable, best-selling car in the UK is a continued domination of the bestselling car sales chart in April, the Ford Fiesta. However, according to the SMMT, registrations were down overall by 7.4 per cent. Therefore, Ford's hatchback found a huge 6,700 homes in April and remains the best-selling, most popular and highly desired car of the year with an impressive 34,679 shifted. It may not be a shiny new Porsche or a fast Lamborghini, but there are reasons for it being so desired by many. The affordable price for such an iconic car proves to be the population's favourite for its 'vivid expression of all that is inspirational in design today.'

Ten Smart Ways to Buy a Car Online

By Sumeet Bagga

A lot of items can be bought online these days. The amount of information that can be found on the internet helps a lot of shoppers to be well-informed while making a decision to buy. This fact has helped the growth in the sale of cars and other vehicles online. There are numerous websites that offer information regarding cars for sale with a variety of amenities in just about any locale.

If you are in the market to buy a new or used car, below are few tips that will help you take advantage of the convenience of the internet and lets you buy best car online.

1. Choose a site that provides a large variety of cars to buy from car dealers/car yards and private sellers.

2. Buy car from a website that provides an option to buy new and used cars of all types, makes and models for sale.

3. Ask as many questions and solve all your queries while you consider buying car online.

4. Set your budget and search for makes and models that come under it. In case you are buying a used car, make sure to negotiate the price.

5. Ask for the current pictures of the interior and exterior of the car. If you want to view a particular area of the car more closely, such as interior, bonnet or trunk size, ask for more detailed pictures.

6. Ask for previous reports of the car if you are planning to buy a used car or check USP of the vehicle and its comfort level if new car is what you have planned for.

7. Research the history of the seller by reading comments, testimonials and reviews from other buyers. Positive or negative feedback can help you decide whether to consider that particular seller or not while buying cars online.

8. If it is a used car your are planning to buy, then make sure to compare the prices so that you don't end up paying more than its worth.

9. Get complete information about previous odometer readings, if the car has been in an accident or whether the airbag has been deployed and more. The identification number of the vehicle is the key to the history of the car.

10. Avoid buying cars with a listing that states "as is" this means you have absolutely nothing to fall back on it.

Buying car online can prove to be a fantastic deal if you plan in advance and buy from a recognized car dealer online.

Find a wide range of new or used cars of all available makes and models from car dealers and private sellers in Australia at AutoMarket.com.au. Auto Market is one of the biggest automotive portals to buy car online. Choose best new or used car in your budget and buy your dream car with best affordable prices.

Car Body Panels - Replace Your Old Panels to Give Your Car a Better Look

By Rizvana Abdul

Replacing car panels is very necessary if you are particular about how your vehicle looks, especially if your car has been through an accident recently. Dents and scratches on your car body panels give it a very untidy appearance and reduce the value of your vehicle considerably. More importantly, scratches can lead to your vehicle getting rusted very badly and should therefore be repaired almost as soon as they occur.

Needless to say, if you have a dent on the body of your car, the simplest and cheapest option is to get the dent repaired. You can take your vehicle to a workshop in order for mechanics to work on it with a hammer or do a body-filler repair job. However, this is not always possible if the metal has been dented too much or the metal has been stretched very much out of shape. Besides, you might not be satisfied with the way your car looks even after this is done because it will never regain its smooth appearance once it has been dented.

The best way that you can help your car regain its attractive appearance is by buying new car body panels to replace the old ones that have got dented or rusted. You can then take your car to a mechanic and get the replacement part filled on without any trouble. This is a relatively trouble free process and you will get your car back after the replacement very quickly, thereby suffering the least possible amount of inconvenience.

You need to buy replacement car body panels from a good place that sells parts that are reliable without being too expensive. Reliability is very important because it is not a good idea to use substandard parts on your vehicle because they will lead to unnecessary repair costs over the long run and will not look very nice as well. It is best to identify a supplier who can get you the replacement car body panels you need without too much delay. In fact, you should look for a dealer who can get you a wide variety of replacement parts for your car so that you can get all sorts of repairs done without having to search for the parts you need. Maintaining your car in the best possible manner becomes an easy task as long as you have support from a good mechanic and a supplier of spare parts.

Make sure that your car always looks good without any dents and scratches. Visit http://www.panelhouse.com.au in order to find all the replacement car body panels and other spare parts that you need.

New Vs Used Car Bonnets - Which One Should You Opt For?

By Rizvana Abdul

Car bonnets are probably the first things about cars that people notice and dents or scratches on them are immediately visible and difficult to hide. If your car has been through a head on collision with another car or object then the bonnet is sure to get damaged very badly. You need to replace it immediately not just because it makes your car look ugly but because it also protects the engine that lies beneath it. The question that you will be faced with is whether you need to buy new or used car bonnets because you will find plenty of options in either category.

Most people agree that new car bonnets are the superior option simply because they look far better than ones taken from junk yard dealers. There are some people who prefer used parts because they are very inexpensive to acquire and it is hard to argue with that reasoning when money is scarce. However, there are many replacement parts dealers who offer car spare parts at really low rates that you can actually get what you need at low prices if you take the trouble to look around for it. You will not have to sacrifice appearance and durability just to save some money as long as you find such a dealer to buy the parts you need.

If you have a vintage car then used parts dealers and vehicle junk yards might be your only option because this is where you will easily find parts that are usually hard to locate. Most spare parts dealers do not deal in these parts because demand for them is very limited and also because they are not easy to acquire. There are a few companies that specialize in sourcing and selling replacement parts for old models of vehicles and you will have to make your purchases from them.

If, on the other hand, you have a currently available model of car then you will find the parts you need very easily because there will be quite a few companies that carry these parts. Even so, you need to find a reliable company to buy replacement car bonnets from because you need parts that are sturdy and attractive without being too expensive. The question of whether you need to buy a new or used bonnet for your car is therefore very easily answered and you can refurbish your car without too much problem.

Don't compromise on quality when it comes to finding replacement parts for your damaged vehicle. Visit http://www.panelhouse.com.au in order to find a huge selection of car bonnets for your vehicle.

2011 Chevy Impala - Good Car Overall But Lacks Much Needed Innovation

By Johnnie Dice

The 2010 Chevrolet Impala has numerous features that would make any car buyer happy, but the problem is that the competition provides more for the same price. With the economy in a downward spiral, most people who plan on buying a car these days will usually go with a model and make that they know for sure will be reliable and affordable. And for a lot of people that vehicle is the Chevy Impala. This particular vehicle has been in production for decades and its reputation is quite good.

For those of you who may not know much about the Impala, it was once the best selling sedan in America. Chevy has introduced a few different trims for the car since it was released in the late fifties including: coupe, convertible and sedan models. What the automaker had in mind was to create a different model type for each type of shopper such as families, muscle car lovers, and shoppers on a budget. The 2011 version is actually a nice combination of style, performance and value, but it could be better.

A few of the things that makes this car a good choice is its large interior (which can fit 6 adults comfortably), its noise reducing cabin, a nice size trunk and probably most important it has a high safety ranking. While it may not be ax exciting to drive as Chevy's popular Coupe, the Camaro, the Impala has a lot to offer those who want a reliable car, with nice features and at an affordable price.

Unfortunately, Chevrolet didn't make too many changes to the 2011 model which means that instead of adding new features like its competitors are doing, they're basically just continuing to rely on dedicated Impala buyers to keep the brand going. This is not a good business plan mainly because this is how models end up being discontinued, especially during times like these. The lack of exterior styling innovation, the cheap interior parts and the low horsepower engine are features that Chevy can easily improve on.

What Chevrolet really needs to do is go back to square one and redesign the aging Impala from scratch. It worked successfully with the Camaro so there's no reason why it could not work for the Impala. One of the reasons why Chevrolet may be "satisfied" with the car's overall sales and performance is because thanks to rental company fleets, its sales are actually pretty good. But with all the choices that are available to consumers such as the Chrysler 300 and the Hyundai Sonata, Chevrolet should focus more on what consumers want instead of what rental companies want.

The 2011 Impala is available in the following trim packages: LS, LT, and the fully loaded LTZ. Seating is available for up to 5 adults on the standard models but the number is increased to six if you get the optional front bench. The base LS model has standard features such as cruise control, air conditioning, power accessories, a 6 speaker sound system and automatic headlights.

The mid-range LT model has more popular features such as Bluetooth, a steering wheel with a leather cover, a better internal computer, remote ignition, foglamps and 17 inch wheels. This model also has a package that include more luxurious features such as a 8 speaker sound system, heated seats, heated mirrors and leather interior.

And for those of you lucky enough to get the fully loaded LTZ model, you'll get everything the LT models offers with additional features such as a 8-way power driver seat, 18 inch ally wheels and a more powerful V6 engine. You can also get a moonroof on this model as well as the LT version.

As for the engine specs, the Impala's V6 engine only has 211 horsepower which is considered very low these days and it also has 216 feet of torque. The LTZ model's engine is slightly better featuring 224 horsepower and 235 pounds of torque. The one good thing about this car having a low hp V6 engine is that it's fuel mileage numbers are quite good. It's gets a combined 23 mpg which is more than a lot of its competitors. Overall, the Impala is affordable (starting at $24,495), safe and reliable, but with just a few minor changes it could have been much better car.

Aftermarket Car Panels - Use Them to Customize Your Car Easily

By Rizvana Abdul

There are many ways in which you can customize your car in order to stand out from all the others in a crowd. One of the most popular ways is to buy special aftermarket car panels in order to change its exterior surface. As a matter of fact, there is a growing trend towards customizing the exterior of the car in order to make it say something about the personality and aspirations of its owner.

Car striping is a very good way to make your vehicle look attractive and sporty. Racing stripes give it a very special look and tell others that you are a person who likes power and speed. Most people who add performance parts to their vehicles in order to give them an additional boost also opt for stripes on their aftermarket car panels so that the give people an indication of the power beneath the bonnets of their car. These stripes make your car immediately recognizable as one that has been modified to have a lot more speed than normal.

Car striping is undoubtedly very popular but you can also add many other types of designs to give your car a unique look. These include humourous slogans as well as attractive pictures. These are very easily put onto your car with the help of auto decals. These decals are usually made from PVC film. Make sure that you pick ones that are highly durable and easy to install so that you don't have to take too much trouble fixing them. You can buy them from a variety of suppliers and can have them fitted onto the aftermarket car panels you purchase. It would be best if you found a supplier who permits you to customize the decals you require instead of compelling you to choose from a limited selection. You should be able to buy the decals you need in the colour and size you require.

You are bound to turn heads when you drive past in your customized vehicle and will definitely enjoy all the attention you receive. You need to find a really good supplier of these decals so that you don't have to take too much trouble to customize your vehicle. The best supplier will have a good supply of design options for decals and you will be able to select something that suits your personality and driving style the best and which is not too expensive.

Get the best car striping on your upgraded vehicle in order to give it a very distinctive look. Visit http://www.panelhouse.com.au in order to find the best aftermarket aftermarket car panels and other accessories to customize your vehicle.

Car Bumpers - Understanding the Various Options Available

By Rizvana Abdul

Car bumpers have a very important role to play in making your car safe and comfortable to drive. Not only do they protect your vehicle in the event of a head-on collision, but they also help to improve the aerodynamics of your vehicle, thereby giving you better mileage. The other benefit of having good bumpers is that they protect people who might get hit by your car, albeit only slightly. You will need to replace your old bumpers if they crack or fall off because of an accident. You might also want to buy new ones that look better than the old ones in order to customize your vehicle to give it a better appearance.

There are many different types of bumpers you could select from and this makes it possible for you to choose one that suits your needs the best. When you set out to buy car bumpers, you should first consider the different materials that they are usually made of. Most cars have a bumper made of reinforced thermoplastic material because it is relatively cheap while being very durable. If you are willing to spend more money on your car then you can consider ones made of carbon fibre. This material is super light and very strong and will take a huge amount of punishment when compared to plastic ones.

Older cars tended to be made with steel bumpers. They are heavy and prone to denting very easily. They are therefore the least preferred option unless you drive a vintage car that will not look nice with ones made of plastic or carbon fibre.

There are many options for styles of car bumpers. You should ideally buy one that conforms to the original design of your vehicle. They are easily available because there are many companies that manufacture and sell them, there being immense demand for replacement parts. You can buy special ones in case you have special needs for your car, for example if you need to do a lot of towing with your truck or car. If you drive a pickup truck or a SUV, for instance, you could buy step bumpers. If yours is a custom compact truck you are most likely to require Roll Pan bumpers. Do a careful study of the different options available so that you can choose the best possible spare parts including car bumpers for your old or damaged vehicle.

Find out about the various car bumpers you could choose from before you make a purchase. Visit http://www.panelhouse.com.au in order to learn about the best options available.

Cool Off With Car Covers

By Basya Katz

These poor cars probably go through more hell than we actually imagine. After all, we come inside, and cool down by the air - con. We drink, we have ice creams etc, all in effort to cool off, and make ourselves feel better. Our cars on the other hand are stuck there, outside, in the continuous sweltering hot sun, with no break. Not only that but they're expected to perform just so too. They have to shepherd us around to the ice cream store, with the car's air conditioner on, all whilst maintaining a clean exterior. This is virtually impossible.

I simply do not know how other people manage. I say 'other' because my car isn't like that. I can across this a few years ago, and since have bought myself a car cover.

Contrary to popular beliefs, car covers are not expensive. Mine as more than reasonable and I can say it has lasted my three summer, and looking forward to the fourth. My cover is in mint condition, and has actually ended up saving me money.

I bought a cover that protects my car from the sun. It has a particularly high level of resistance to the sun's ultra violet rays. This resistance is natural, which is why it is still going so strong. Natural resistance is fabulous as it will not wear away with time and use, hence making the cover extremely durable and able to last forever.

For the odd occasion, when the air clear with a small sprinkle of rain, my cover is equipped too. It provides resistance to water and liquids too, albeit at a lower level. This is to ensure that I am never caught out and are always protected.

The car cover is also brilliant at keeping my car dust and dirt free. These tend to peak in the summer months and I am thankful they are no longer a worry of mine. I have horrible memories of endless hours washing and cleaning my car.

I am also free from birds muck, and tree sap. Every time I come to my car and see a splat on the cover, I thank Covercraft once again for inventing car covers, and being able to receive my daily dose of birds muck, without having to go through much heart, and headache.

To sum up, I feel that for the average man, and even not the average, a cover is not really a luxury, but rather a necessity. It will save you, as it saved me, lots of money that would have otherwise been continuously spent on car washes, repairs, and body work.

Choose From The Largest Range of car covers, At Prices You Will Not Believe! Check Out http://www.thecarcover.com And Save $!

Here's How To Get The Car You Want

By Mike Reitz

Now it's your turn to finally get the car you want. However, owning your own car can be exciting and challenging all at the same time. You love the idea of the freedom to be able to go where ever you want, without relying on anyone else.

To get the car you want, let's make sure the car will work for you and meet all your needs. It's a lot easier to take a little time before you go shopping to figure out exactly what you want and can afford. This way you can avoid buyer's remorse.

Owning a car brings responsibilities, both financial and practical. By taking into consideration all aspects of owing a car you will be more likely to make a wise decision and keep yourself from getting into trouble down the road.

Here are some steps you can take to get the car you want.

Figure out exactly what you need. Do you need four-wheel-drive, all-wheel-drive, automatic or standard transmission? And what about cargo room or hauling capacity? How many people will you need to carry? Make a list so you don't get side tracked in the excitement of buying a new vehicle.

Next decide if you are going to buy used or new. A used vehicle will take more research and work on your part, but the savings can make it worth your while. On the other hand a new car, from a dealer requires very little extra research and work. After all, it is brand new. Remember a new car will depreciate much faster than a used car.

Determine what your budget is and what you can comfortably afford. A general rule is to keep your car payments under 20 percent of your take home pay. Don't forget to calculate extra costs of owing a car like, insurance, maintenance and fuel.

Compare similar vehicles that will meet your needs. This way you aren't locked into one specific make and model. To get the car you want at a fair price, you will want to go online and get values so you know if you are getting a good price or not.

Test drive the car you want to buy before you make a decision to purchase it. You may find out that you don't like the way it handles or drives, it's better to know before you sign on the dotted line.

Inspect the car from bumper to bumper so you know exactly what you are getting. If it's a used car, be sure and run a history report. And, have a mechanic do a safety inspection to ensure the car is in good condition and safe.

Following the above steps can help ensure you really do get the car you want.

Why Hydrogen Cars Haven't Taken Off

By Jacqueline Star

Drive around the street and you'll most likely see lots of traditional cars, lots of hybrids and maybe an electric car once a while. You'll hardly ever see a vehicle powered by hydrogen. That's rather surprising considering the fact that experts predicted that we would all be driving hydrogen powered autos by now. You may see one once in awhile in California and even that would be an extremely rare sighting.

Two types of hydrogen cars exist; one that is powered directly by hydrogen and the other uses a fuel cell which powers the engine. The fuel cell makes electricity out of hydrogen.. There are no pollutants as the result of the burning of hydrogen.

So why has this idea not taken off? Mainly because it's not practical due to monetary reasons. Rare and expensive substances are used to build the fuel cell. Hydrogen is not a natural substance. Instead it must be made from methane or some other fossil fuels. It can also be a byproduct of such resources as wind, solar or nuclear. Using these resources is not practical when a motor vehicle is involved. Thus the need for the fuel cell. Also, there are not nearly enough stations around the nation where people can fill up their cars. Another major factor is cost.

If you thought gasoline was expensive, well hydrogen is much more expensive. One gallon of gas may cost four dollars but one kg of hydrogen (the equivalent of one gallon of gas) can cost anywhere from fifteen to twenty bucks. Plus there are just not enough filling stations in place to support a large number of users. Right now California has the most with 13 pilot filling stations. Finally, the cost of the car itself would probably be out of most people's reach. That is why we are seeing auto makers and governments relying so much on electric cars as the way to cleanly propel ourselves from one place to another.

Still, many major auto makers have pilot programs that are exploring the feasibility of hydrogen cars. Honda has a hydrogen car called the FCX Clarity. The first generation of the vehicle appeared in 1999 and the Japanese company is now offering the second generation model. Honda is actually leasing the car to regular consumers in California.

However, we are not going to see a lot of hydrogen cars on our highways until we have a viable infrastructure through which the fuel can be distributed, the cost of manufacturing fuel cells become more reasonable and the cost of a kilo of hydrogen falls more in line with a gallon of gasoline. Most analysts say we are a decade away.

The Advantages of Reconditioned Engines

By Wayne M Adams

Throughout your life you will undoubtedly own numerous vehicles. At some point and time you may find yourself in a position where you have to replace the engine in one. When this eventually happens you will have to decide what type of engine you want to replace the original one with. The two main choices available these days are either a second hand unit or a reconditioned unit.

If you are not planning on keeping the car after it is repaired you may elect for the slightly cheaper option of a second hand engine. Bearing in mind you have no way to tell what the actual mileage of the engine is or the driving habits of the last owner, that lends the second hand option better to a repair and sell scenario as most second hand engines come with a short term warranty if any.

If you plan to keep your vehicle you should seriously consider the benefits of replacing the faulty unit with a reconditioned one. In general a reconditioned engine is virtually brand new inside so in effect it has zero miles on it and it will have the potential of having the longest life span if looked after properly.

A standard reconditioned engine has had quite a bit of work done to them in order to be able to offer a longer warranty and is a smart choice for those who take pride in their vehicles and would like to keep them for as long as possible. At a minimum machine work will have been done to the engine block and cylinder head in order to ensure they have flat mating surfaces, cranks are machined, polished or replaced as necessary new bearing sets will have been installed in both the connecting rods and main journals to ensure optimum oil pressure can be achieved, the pistons will have been fitted with new piston rings to create a positive seal in the cylinder chamber, cylinder heads will have been pressure tested to make sure they do not have any internal cracks, New oil seals will have been fitted to make the unit oil tight after all is reassembled the engine should be fit for purpose and provide a dependable replacement for your faulty unit.

All reconditioned engines should be "broken in" gently. This means that you do not want to hop in a vehicle with a reconditioned engine in it and immediately go out and put your foot to the floor on every occasion. The break in period is very important to the longevity of the new engine. At this time all of the new metal components ( rings and bearings) will slowly wear themselves in to their adjoining parts so all surfaces will mate and work optimally in the future. If the break in period is ignored you can actually shorten the life of the replacement engine and cause conditions where the oil pressure will be too low or the piston rings will not seat properly causing the replacement engine to burn oil.

At the end of the day, if you choose a reconditioned engine as a replacement for your original, it can last you the life of the vehicle if it is taken care of properly.

Wayne Adams is an expert in Reconditioned Engines. If you are interested in learning more about quality Reconditioned Engines, please contact us by visiting our main site: Japanese Engines or by calling us at 442085960396

Buy Here Pay Here Dealers and the Car Selection Process

By Andrew Falcon

For many used car buyers with poor credit or no credit at all, getting a quality used vehicle can be a challenge. High-end used car dealerships usually aren't willing to give a loan to someone with bad credit, which usually means the only options are paying cash for a junker or getting a vehicle through on the spot financing.

We've covered the how and why of on the spot financing in previous articles, but a topic we haven't covered yet is how you actually choose your vehicle from an on the spot financing dealer.

So, how exactly do you get a car through on the spot financing? Well, it doesn't exactly work in the way you've grown accustomed to. You can't just go to a lot and select any car you desire then expect to drive it home. Their car selection process, in a nutshell, is more or less based on your credit score and how flexible or inflexible your monthly budget is. Although on the spot financing dealerships give you a second chance, they're not going to let you get a car you can't realistically afford; that would be irresponsible and it would hurt you in the long run. Their goal is to get you driving again with a car that doesn't break your budget.

So if your credit score is low and your budget isn't ideal, you probably won't end up with a brand new, 2011 Mustang; it might be a more experienced vehicle. But the good news is that your monthly payments would be lower in this situation. The more flexible your budget is and the higher your credit score, the nicer and newer your car will be. But don't forget, the nicer and newer your car, the higher your monthly payments will be as well.

On the spot financing dealers indeed want to help you. Which is why their processes for approval, financing and car selection can at times seem cumbersome, but it's only set up that way so they can help you to the best of their abilities. If they were to approve you for a 2011 Mustang, and you could only afford $100 a month for payments, you could get into some serious trouble, further your debt, and damage your credit even more. So keep this in mind when you go to an on the spot financing dealer. Be somewhat wary of the less-than-credible dealerships, and trust that the good dealerships know what they're doing and are doing everything in their power to help you.

You may not get your "dream car" the first time around, but by paying your bills on time and improving your credit score, you give yourself a much better opportunity to buy your dream car later on down the line when you work with an on the spot financing dealer.

CarHop has store locations in twelve states across the U.S. and specializes in helping car buyers with poor or no credit get approved for financing to get them driving again fast. Every CarHop vehicle includes an 18-month, 18,000 mile limited warranty at no extra charge. CarHop is now in its 15th year of pursuing its mission of "Helping People Drive®." For more information, please visit http://www.carhop.com.

Newbies' Guide to Audi Models

By Enid Glasgow

The beautiful thing about Audi - well, besides their beautiful vehicles - is that they appeal to everyone. If you want luxury, Audi has it. Whether "luxury" means a sleek little roadster or a spacious family SUV to you, you will find it behind the wheel of an Audi. From the zippy TTS Coupe to the sporty A5 Cabriolet to the roomy A4 Avant, you will get all of the performance, handling, style, and features you want in a package that is just right for you.

Compact. The little A3 is Audi's only compact model. Starting at about $27,000, it is also the most affordable and fuel-efficient car in their lineup. It features all-season tires, Halogen headlights, leather seating, Audi premium sound system with SiriusXM, dual-zone climate control, 24 mpg combined, 200hp, and 207 lb-ft of torque. The A4 is a great little car for people on the go, commuters, and businesspeople and people interested in just getting their feet wet with Audi vehicles.

SUVs and Wagons. Families gravitate towards the larger wagons and SUVs. The A4 Avant, Q5, and Q7 offer more spacious accommodations for big and little passengers and roomy cargo areas for weekend trips to the local hardware store. Each model boosts the power a bit over the A3, so you will get plenty of Audi-quality performance in each family vehicle. The A4 and Q5 won the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's Top Pick for Safety and are among the brand's bestsellers.

Sedans. A sedan will also provide room for the family but has a sporty enough body style for those without kids. Audi's sedans range in price from $32,500 (A4) to $71,000 (A8). The top-of-the-line A8 has features like a solar sunroof, adaptive air suspension, Servotronic steering, quattro all-wheel drive, and electronic stability control.

Coupes, Convertibles, and Cabriolets. Slimming down, Audi's coupes, convertibles, and cabriolets offer a sportier ride still. These offer 2- to 4-passenger seating and are packed with Audi's premiere luxury features, like leather seating, climate control, and more. Forget the kids - these are all for you. We suggest the R8 Spyder. With 525hp and a 5.2 liter DOHC V10 engine, you'll have all the car you'll ever want.

From the family man, to the busy business woman, Audi has more than one model suited to fit the bill. Test drive them all to get the best idea as to which works best for you.

Greatest Gasoline Credit Cards 2011

By Reg P Henderson

2011 is quickly upon us, and if you\'re seeking for the Very best Fuel cards out there, I desired to sit you down right now, and present you which ones I assume are the ones that you really should hugely feel. Right now, before we start off, just don't forget that you are heading to comprehend that as prolonged as you shell out your bill off in total each and every, and each and every month, you will never ever have to feel concerned all-around individuals pesky interest rate expenses.

Currently, here's the record of the top rated Gasoline credit cards for 2011.

Find out Open Street: A great card that has been all-around for a very long time these days. I am a huge fan of the Uncover products. You can get some great cash back rewards, and not only can you preserve on Gasoline at any Gasoline station, you can also preserve with other retailers. The great matter approximately Find out is that you are heading to be capable to get a bonus when you store with Find's retailers.

Chase Independence: Chase made use of to have some of the Most effective reward cards, but they reduce back a minor. Really don't allow that end you from subscribing with them even though. You can even now preserve over 3% on your Gasoline fill ups, and extra. As extended as you have a good credit score, and you can thoroughly use a credit card, you should not have a predicament gaining accredited.

Today, I recognize you're heading to Discover that there are a great deal of other cards on the marketplace, and I notice that. Make certain that you do your research, and Find out Gasoline cards that can conserve you above 5% on your Gas fill ups. A great way to save up cash.

Gasoline prices may fluctuate wildly, but unless you bicycle to work you are stuck paying whatever the pump price shows on any given day. If you want to exercise a little more control over your fuel expenditures, you can complete a gas credit card application and be instantly approved to save money every time you fill up. Unlike gas station credit cards you might apply for at your local filling station, these reward cards allow you to purchase any brand you wish. You get the same great pay off no matter where you shop for gas.

Do People Treat You Differently Depending On What Car You Drive?

By Jacqueline Star

The type of car you drive has a huge impact on how others perceive you. For an example, I used to drive a 1992 economy car and I was constantly pulled over by the cops. However, now that I drive a new Mercedes Benz I have never been pulled over. Not one single time. My driving style has not changed whatsoever. Certain cars simply exude more respectability and status. Don't get me wrong, I have seen luxury cars pulled over before; it just hasn't happened to me yet.

I have also noticed that most individuals are not very knowledgeable about cars in general and will automatically assume that you are wealthy because you are driving a luxury car. This is a complete fallacy since all of the luxury brands have entry level vehicles that are very affordable and probably cost less than most SUV's. However, the majority of people don't think twice about someone SUV but will automatically assume you are wealthy just because you drive a Mercedes. There is a huge difference between a C-Class and S-Class.

I read about a recent study which stated that the type of car you drive doesn't lead to happiness because most people do not consciously think of what type of car they are driving all of the time. Personally, I am constantly aware of what type of car I am driving and I never forget. I always felt self-conscious driving a more modest car but I feel so much better about myself now that I drive a luxury car. Maybe I'm more self-aware than others but I never forget it.

Let's take a look at a few common stereotypes. People who drive luxury cars are generally perceived as snobby and status conscious. SUV drivers are usually thought of as adventurous, sporty and fun loving while anyone who drives a minivan is usually family oriented. Folks who drive high performance cars are usually considered aggressive and show-off's.

Want a nice car but don't want to spend a ton? Why not consider a used car?! Most regular people (if they aren't car fanatics) won't be able to tell the difference between a brand new car and a used car that is just a few years old. Used cars depreciate in value a lot less too and many have been reconditioned to be in great condition. There are many options available including used sedans, SUV's, used trucks and coupes. Visit a used car dealer in order to find the best deals.

All that matters is that you are happy with your own car. It doesn't matter if you drive a Chevy, Kia, Chevrolet, Buick, Honda or Ford.

Bright and Reliable Police Dash Lights For Emergencies

By Sunil Punjabi

There is a reason why police dash lights should be bright. Those who need help and are in some sort of trouble should be able to spot these vehicles from a distance irrespective of whether it is an isolated terrain, a highway, or a crowded city center. The dash lights have been designed to ensure two functions. Firstly, they are bright and dazzling, and attract everyone's attention around. The flash patterns ensure that these lights mounted on the dash tops of cop vehicles cannot be missed by anyone. Spotting a police van provides citizens with a sense of security and the feeling of being protected, which adds to their faith in the establishment. It also instills fear in the hearts of those planning to commit an offense.

Police dash lights are ideal for emergency lighting as well as for mounting on front dashboards. Clear red or white lights can be turned on and off with a cigarette outlet switch. The entire kit is highly portable, lightweight and inexpensive. Alternating red and blue lights on top of cop vans is a very common sight. Aided by flash patterns of varying pulses, sometimes as high as 20 or 30 flashes per second, ensures that these dash lights aren't easily missed by anyone, especially when ably complemented by high-pitched sirens. Visor LED lights are also compact and offer dazzling brilliance especially required in dark avenues for police vehicles which are on patrol duty.

Police dash lights also come with a set of extra mirror beams specially designed for some kinds of SUVs and cop vans. These offer unobstructed and intense warning lights that prove highly efficient in haze and rain. One can also find slim deck lights that come with suction cups that swivels and can be adjusted depending on the requirement. Some of these dash lights are constructed of 3rd generation LEDs and are highly efficient. The dash lights and deck lights can be synchronized too as the flash patterns can be controlled with the help of a compact control box that is usually provided with the kit. The sturdy and lightweight dash lights are even more resilient than metal and their structural resilience extends to all kinds of harsh weather conditions and shocks.

Designed for at least 100,000 hours of operation, the police dash lights, made of assemblies of LED arrays come with dozens of flashing patterns arranged in the same unit. The kit usually includes a cigar plug switch for ease of operation, a flash pattern control mechanism and cord which is 8 - 12 feet long. These lights are also provided with swivel and bail brackets with suction cups and a polycarbonate hood that can be snapped on for extra protection. This hood with dual screws also ensures that the flashback doesn't affect the driver and leaves him undisturbed while driving. The outer lenses are also known for the fact that while they are brilliant when switched on, they can be mounted on stealth vans too and cannot be detected when they are turned off.

Extreme Tactical Dynamics is a one-stop shop for Police dash lights and many other items like Flashlights, Deck Lights, police lights, etc. Please visit the site for more details of various items available - http://www.extremetacticaldynamics.com/

Soccer Mom's Guide to Audi SUVs

By Enid Glasgow

On its website, Audi proudly proclaims that "More people are leaving BMW, Mercedes, and Lexus for Audi than ever before." Is it the quiet luxury of this unique brand? Is it their incredible selection of body styles? Is it their superb handling? Is it their relatively low price in the luxury market? Or is it their rugged all-season tires, spacious cargo area, roomy seating for 5 to 7 passengers, 3 zone automatic climate control, and entertainment features? If you are a busy mother, Audi makes sense for your family. Here is your guide to great Audi SUVs.

Q5. Audi also calls this their "crossover" model, perhaps hoping to entice those who don't want to admit they are soccer moms quite yet. This is a great car, SUV, vehicle. Whatever you call it, the Q5 delivers with 22mpg combined fuel economy, seating for 5, 211hp, 2.0L turbocharged 4 cylinder engine, 12-way power front seats with 4-way power lumbar adjustment, LED taillights and turn signals, leather seating, and a starting price of just $35,600.

The Q5 is full of safety features, including quattro All-wheel Drive, superior brakes, Servotronic steering, and hill descent control. But for those moms who want performance with their SUV, the Q5 has them covered with a 5-link front suspension and trapezoidal-link rear suspension for smooth handling, Valvelift system for smooth power buildup and instant throttle response (not to mention better gas mileage), and Audi drive select so you can have greater control of your ride.

Being a soccer mom is very, very good when you have a Q5.

Q7. The Q7 ups the ante with seating for 7 and bumps up the power to a 280hp, 3.0L supercharged V6. Features include leather seating, heated 12-way power front seats, Audi's parking system, music integration, HomeLink remote transmitter, Bluetooth, LED taillights, and power tailgate. It is a bit less efficient than the Q5 with 18mpg combined, but the trade-off is greater power and a few more bells and whistles than you get with the Q5. If you have a larger family or need the extra seating, the Q7 is one of the few vehicles that will accommodate you. Starting at about $46,000, it is a good choice for families.

Audi pours as much luxury and style into its SUVs as it does into its smaller models. Soccer moms, rest at ease: you can have practicality, convenience, and a hot car.

Shopping for Affordable 4 Wheel Drive Cars: Pre-Owned Audi Models

By Vin Hale

The amount of power you can get from your vehicles engine to the ground can be the limiting factor in how well your car performs on the road in slippery conditions. Owners of 4 wheel drive cars can attest to their superiority compared to the more common front wheel drive models usually found on American roadways. When it comes to maximum traction in less than ideal conditions it's hard to beat a well engineered all wheel drive system like those found in Audi or Subaru cars.

Thankfully for those who live in regions given to inclement weather their has been a major expansion in the number and quality of all wheel drive models of all types in the model lineups of many auto makers. Where as four wheel drive systems in the past required more bulky hardware which added inefficiencies by default, modern 4x4 systems are typically nearly as adept at squeezing the maximum out of every gallon of fuel at their two wheel drive counterparts. Of course there is usually still a price premium to contend with if you are looking to buy an all wheel drive model.

Audi is considered a pioneer in the AWD vehicle market and has included their Quattro drive system on many models since the 1980s. If you are in the market for a good used all wheel drive vehicle it would probably be worth your time to check out the Audi lineup to see what might fit your needs.

Probably their most popular models are the A4 and A6 sedans and you can find any number of these cars for affordable prices in the pre-owned market. If you are looking for a small, fuel-efficient car that can get you around in slick winter conditions and maintain maximum traction on wet roads the A4 would be a great place to start. To pick a model year as an example let's look at the 2002 model A4. It features a turbocharged 1.8 liter engine that puts out 170 horsepower. Not earth shaking, but nice for a small car especially since the torque curve starts low at just under 2000 rotations per minute. Of course the best thing is that this car is equipped with the Quattro AWD system and you can still expect to get over thirty miles per gallon during highway driving. According to KBB you can expect to get one of these 2002 models in great condition for around $8,000.

If you need more space than the A4 has or just want more power you could move up the Audi model lineup and look at the popular A6 which is also an all wheel drive model and comes with either a 220 HP 3.0 liter V6, 250 horsepower 2.7 liter turbo-charged V6 or a big 4.2 liter V8 that puts out 300 horsepower. Naturally the model for the fuel economy minded driver is the 3.0 liter V6 but if your primary focus is on the traction system any of the models will suit your needs. Although the V8 model may bring more you should be able to find a great 2002 model year A6 for under $9,000.

So there are your two suggestions to get you started in your 4 wheel drive car search. You can branch out and explore other models from other auto makers or you could even look into the full size Audi A8 or if your budget allows move up into more recent model years if they have features you would like and are willing to pay more for.

Something else you should keep in mind when shopping for 4 wheel drive cars is to check out the drive system like the CV joints and transfer cases for any evidence of excess wear. If you'd like to read more about 4 wheel drive vehicles you can do that right here: http://4wheeldrivecarsinfo.com/.

What Are The Best Cars for Dogs?

By Mike Reitz

That's a dog-gone good question. Did you know that 47 million families own at least one dog?

Dogs are more than pets, they are family members. Knowing this, making sure that your canine family member is safe and comfortable is something to consider when purchasing your next vehicle. Forty seven percent of families think of their pooch when buying a car.

With all the different makes and models of vehicles out there, how do you know which is best suited for your furry friend?

Here are the best makes and models that get a Five Paw Rating.

But first, here are some general tips to think about if your dog is a frequent traveler:

• Be sure that there is plenty of airflow directed toward the area the dog will be sitting. Are there vents near that spot so you are not simply relying on open windows?

• Make sure the doors have dog, I mean child safety locks.

• Be sure the windows have a restriction on the level they will open to prevent the dog from being able to easily jump from the windows.

• A vehicle with a sun-roof is another good option providing plenty of that "wind-in-the-hair" feeling all dogs love without getting rocks, sand and debris into your dog's eyes.

• Make sure the dog can easily jump into and out of the vehicle, judge this according to the dog's size.

• Think of the fabric, make sure it will be easy to clean and remove unwanted dog hair.

• Be sure there is enough cargo-room to carry the dog, crate, dog food, dog dishes and toys.

Some specific Five Paw Rated models to check into are:

• Dodge Caravan with its second row removable seats and 25 miles per gallon highway, starting at $23,995.00 MRSP.

• Volvo XC90 Crossover with its seven person seating capacity, starting at $38,400.00 MRSP

• Subaru Outback with its spacious interior and under the floor storage, starting at $23,195.00 MRSP.

• Subaru Forester with its 60-40 rear fold down seats and under the floor storage, starting at $20,495.00 MRSP.

• Honda CR-V, which seats 5 and has rear seat air vents, starting at $21,895.00 MRSP.

• Honda Element with its wide opening cargo doors and wipe down utility floors, starting at $20,825.00 MRSP.

• Kia Soul with its wide wheel base for more interior room and a smooth ride, starting at under $14,000.00 MRSP.

• Nissan Cube with its tiered rear seats and 31 miles to the gallon highway, starting at $14,740.00 MRSP.

• Range Rover Sport with its elevated cockpit and foot well lamps, starting at $60,495.00 MRSP.

This list will give you a better idea of what to look for when purchasing your next vehicle and it helps to answer the dog-gone good question of which car is best for dogs.

Dogs love to ride whether it is a trip to the post office, a weekend trip or a family vacation so make sure your canine friend is happy, safe and comfortable.

By the way, do you want to learn more about how I show my clients to save money on their vehicles?

A Senior Citizen's Guide to Driving Safely

By Sofia Contreras

Aging is a part of life. It is inevitable that as we age, we experience bodily changes that make things that were once so easy for us, a little bit harder. Driving is one of the skills where we need to make some adjustments as we age. However, by being aware of these changes and responding appropriately to them through safe driving practices, we can be confident that we will remain safe drivers even when we are well past our 60s. Here are some of the most important changes in your body that affect your driving abilities.

* Stiff Joints
* Vision Problems
* Hearing Impairment
* Slow Reaction Times

Stiff joints can lead to difficulty in foot and pedal movement and in some cases, making it hard to turn your head to look behind you, harder turn the steering wheel and push the brakes. If you feel these things, see your doctor and ask for any medication he/she can give you to ease your muscle and joint pains. In this condition, it would surely be advantageous if you drive a car with automatic transmission, power steering and power brakes so that you won't have to exert much physical effort. Try to always exercise to keep your body strong and flexible.

There are several vision problems associated with age such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration are associated with aging. Even if you don't have these specific eye diseases, it is inevitable that your eyesight will decline and you'll have trouble seeing things at night, you may find glare extra annoying and traffic signs may not be recognized so quickly.

The first way to counteract these vision problems is to have your eyes checked regularly. Ask your doctor if you have an eye disease such as cataract. It can be remedied by surgery. Also, make sure your prescription glasses are correct and updated and don't fail to wear them when driving. Refrain from driving at night if it's hard for you to see things in the dark.

Aging also causes hearing problems to arise. If this happens, you may not be able to discern horns, sirens and noises easily. Sounds are warnings and if you don't get them quickly, you may be putting yourself and your passengers in danger.

First, have your hearing checked on a regular basis. If you have any hearing difficulties, they can readily be treated by your doctor. It may also help if you use a hearing aid especially when driving. Refrain from playing loud music and ask your passengers to tone down their voices so that you won't be distracted from unnecessary noises.

Finally, when you age, your reaction time becomes slower, you get easily confused and distracted, and your attention span becomes shorter.

Some adjustments must be made to your usual driving practices to cope up with these changes. First, make sure there is adequate space between you and the car in front. If you ever need to stop in a while, start braking early on. As much as possible, avoid driving in place where traffic is high.