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2007 Land Rover LR2

June 25, 2006 on 2:04 am | In SUVs | No Comments

The fourth new model from Land Rover in just four years, LR2 joins the Range Rover (2002), Land Rover LR3 (2004) and Range Rover Sport (2005). “LR2 combines the advantages of a premium sedan – such as polished ride, accomplished performance, an attractive cabin and ease-of-use – with the attributes of a robust SUV, including go-anywhere ability, toughness, stadium seating, cabin versatility and spaciousness,” says Phil Popham, Land Rover’s managing director. “We believe that no other compact SUV gets closer to blending these best-of-both-worlds abilities.”

Technical highlights of the LR2 include a brand-new 3.2-liter inline-six engine featuring advanced technologies to deliver an outstanding combination of performance and economy.

The 230bhp i6 engine provides 0-60 mph acceleration in 8.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds). The engine is matched to a new six-speed automatic transmission, with Land Rover’s CommandShift offering manual sequential gear changes when required. There is also a driver-selectable sport mode, for livelier performance.

The interior package of LR2 has generous head, shoulder and legroom, in both the front and rear. Large glass areas emphasize the spacious feel and complement the elevated ‘command driving’ position – a Land Rover hallmark – and ‘stadium seating’, where rear passengers sit slightly higher than front occupants, for a clearer view of the world outside. Cargo space is also among the best in class: 59 cu. ft. (1670 liters) with the rear seats folded and 26.5 cu. ft (755 liters) with the rear seats up.

The exterior and interior design of LR2 is completely fresh, integrating the company’s unique design language with a form that is instantly recognizable as the latest Land Rover.

The body is a five-door monocoque structure, with a high level of torsional rigidity which benefits refinement, comfort and handling on-road as well as ensuring the vehicle is fit for serious off-road use. The suspension is fully independent and uses the most modern stability control systems, including Roll Stability Control (RSC ), a sophisticated technology that helps mitigate the risk of roll-over even in extreme conditions.

LR2 is packed with new technologies to improve both on-road and off-road performance. Land Rover’s unique Terrain Response is standard, making off-road use easier. Other interesting technologies include a new intelligent permanent all-wheel-drive system for superior traction and better on-road fuel economy, and the patented Gradient Release Control, which improves driver confidence and control when releasing the brakes on steep and slippery slopes.

Other features and options include: keyless starter button, bi-xenon headlamps, adaptive front lighting, rain-sensing windshield wipers and rear park distance control. A standard two-part panoramic sunroof increases the cabin’s airiness; air-conditioning also comes standard and a full-color touch-screen DVD satellite navigation system is optional. A choice of top-level audio systems includes 12-speaker Dolby Pro Logic II 7.1 Surround Sound with fiber-optic interconnects. An auxiliary audio connection (for MP3 players) is standard.

2007 Dodge Nitro Midsize SUV

June 11, 2006 on 3:08 am | In SUVs | No Comments

The 2007 Dodge Nitro is the first mid-size sport-utility vehicle for Dodge and complements the brand’s current lineup of cars, minivans, trucks, commercial vehicles and a full-size SUV. Three models are available: Dodge Nitro, Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T.

Available on the Dodge Nitro and Dodge Nitro SLT is a 3.7-liter SOHC V-6 engine. It produces 210 hp (157 kW) @ 5,200 rpm and 235 lb.-ft. (319 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm. The Dodge Nitro R/T features a new 4.0-liter V-6 engine that delivers 255 hp (190 kW) @ 5,800 rpm and 275 lb.-ft. torque (360 Nm) @ 4,000 rpm.

Nitro standard safety features include Electronic Stability Program (ESP), Anti-lock Brake System (ABS), Electronic Roll Mitigation and side-curtain air bags.

The optional equipment list includes a DVD-based navigation system with traffic data update, rear-seat DVD entertainment system, AM/FM/6-disc/DVD/MP3 audio with premium speakers with a subwoofer, remote start, UConnectTM , and Sirius Satellite Radio.

The Dodge Nitro features a new firm and robust seat structure. A choice of vinyl or cloth seats is also available on the Dodge Nitro model. Leather seats are available for the Dodge Nitro R/T and SLT models.

Standard on the Dodge Nitro SLT is the new YES Essentials® cloth seats, and advanced seating upholstery that offers three key benefits: repelling stains, controlling odor and reducing static electricity. The fabric technology promises to withstand endless cleanings - even repeatedly in the same location - without rubbing off or changing the texture or comfort of the seats or surfaces. The upholstery also controls bacteria-based odors inside the vehicle.

Standard on the Dodge Nitro SLT and Dodge Nitro R/T is the LOAD ‘N GOTM cargo floor which slides 18 inches rearward for easy and convenient loading and unloading of packages. The LOAD ‘N GO cargo floor can hold up to 400 pounds and is made of a heavy-duty plastic for easy cleaning.