Auto Portal

With GM ending its minivan line, Chevy has a crossover that will pick up from where the Venture left off. The Traverse is the newest addition to GM’s CUV line built on the same Lambda platform as the Saturn Outlook and the Buick Enclave.

The front fascia is inspired by the styling of the 2008 Chevrolet Malibu with its signature crossbar and large grill. The body styling is similar to the Buick Enclave and other GM CUV’s not surprisingly though, interestingly the rear window of the car is similar to the BMW X3.

But the back of the car is where the designers took a few risks. The wing shaped taillights are a unique design and even look slightly like taillights on the Audi Q7 but may they may take some getting used to. The taillights look almost over-powered and slightly disproportionate compared to the enormous tailgate.

The two tone interior is typically Chevrolet. Leather seats and a modern, clean appearance are. There is an emphasis on automotive technology inside such as glowing instrument panel and navigation screen.

Even though her design may take a bit of getting used to it is still yet to be determined if the Traverse can get minivan moms to trade in their Dodge Caravan and other to substitute the Traverse for their Lexus RX350.

The trucks of the past were fairly basic. They were without a variety of options for choosing and they all looked pretty similar. Although there were variations in styles of the automakers but a truck was a truck.

This modern era has changed things completely. Plenty of choices are available for the drivers nowadays. They vary from basic work trucks designed for carrying cargo to option-filled trucks that competes with a luxury sedan.

The question arises how to choose a right pickup truck. One way for getting started is to take time for analyzing the wants and needs.

Do You Have a Favorite Automaker?

If one has a good automaker and the automaker builds trucks then that is the proper place to start.

The references in the index of ‘Truck By Manufacturer’ are arranged yearly and by automaker. Reviews, facts, features, options and specifications can be found. They are enough to give a better overview of what is offered by each truck.

Compact Truck or Full Size Truck?

Compact trucks are smaller in size as compared to full size trucks. They have the power to usually tow a weight of about 3,000 pounds; this is the weight that appropriate for many trailers and towing tasks. If one has more heavy towing needs then a mid-size or full size truck is a better option.

As compared to size, mid-size pickups and full-size of compact trucks can be relatively close in size with each other. The finest way for understanding how they compare to each other in respect to interior and exterior size is to compare them on dealer lots.

The compact trucks generally get better gas mileage than as compared to the full size trucks. Although EPA Fuel Economy Ratings should also be checked to confirm average mileage statistics but the actual mileage will be different.

It should be made sure that the interior space of a compact truck is spacious enough to meet the needs.

Engine Choices

Engines of four-cylinder and six-cylinder can be found in compact trucks. More variety is offered in full-size trucks available with six-cylinders, diesels, V8s and V10s.

Drive train Options

Many trucks in the market are available with either a manual or an automatic transmission and there is a choice of 2WD and 4WD. There are many trucks that offer limited-slip or locking differentials and electronic traction control. The options that are becoming increasingly popular are the safety options that are available on new pickup trucks.

The Seating Needs

Several trucks are available in cab styles; this makes one able to find what suits the seating needs.

A standard cab truck comes in one bench or two bucket seats, there is no second row seating and usually and there is also no considerable storage behind the seats.

The extended cab truck has jump seats; there is also a bench seat at the back. It must be made sure to sit at the back while someone else drives the truck so that one feels its seating comfort. Extra space for carrying groceries or other luggage behind the first row is also provided in the extended cabs. They are weather proof and can be locked for security.

The crew cab truck comes in full seating of second row; there are four doors that swing open towards the front. Crew cabs are getting popular as more and more people started using pickup trucks as their primary vehicle. Tundra CrewMax of Toyota has a deep second row; it is spacious enough for rear seats to stretch out. The Dodge Ram Mega Cab that started in 2009 also offers rear seats that recline.

Honda unveiled the next generation Pilot with some mixed reviews about the design. The new 2009 Pilot has a boxier, brawnier look than the previous version but this design could take a little getting used to.

The body is larger and longer and looks less like a crossover but instead like a small SUV. The headlights are also boxy and are much larger and winder than before. The enormous grill, which is becoming a staple of Honda’s 2009 line-up, reminds me of the large grill on the new Acura MDX.

The rear quarter panel is more boxy than before and similar in style to the 2008 Jeep Liberty. The back also looks similar to another Chrysler vehicle, the Chrysler Aspen from some angles. The rear taillights are also a bit similar to the new Dodge Caravan. Inspiration from Chrysler? Maybe, maybe not.

Moving inside the steering wheel has been redesigned. A major change is the relocation of the shifter from the column to the lower dashboard.

Even though technological practicality is the theme of the interior there are more buttons which on the center console and arm rests. This ads functionality to the vehicle and more options for the driver but it seems there are too many buttons and knobs which can confuse or even distract the driver.

People have always found ways to travel from place to place. Some ancient peoples journeyed by camel or on foot, and dwelt in tents. The Romani itinerants’ homes were wagons, which served as both vehicle and place of abode. Today, the RV has become the magic carpet of the nomads.

RVs give you a Sense of Freedom and Closeness to Nature

Folks find a genuine sense of freedom as they climb into their RVs. There’s a feeling of being set free from the bother that accompanies commercial travel. RVers can bring their beloved pets along with them, and can enjoy the liberty of being “home” without the daily stresses of life. Some have even discovered life-changing emancipation from all of the stuff and clutter of their lives due to the smaller living quarters.

Nothing can compare with the opportunity to be close to nature, especially when “boondocking” – camping solo in the country instead of in an RV park. Mother Nature’s handiwork is restful. You may awaken at sunrise and see the hummingbirds in their delirious dance with the trumpet vine flowers on a live oak tree. The evening event could be a spotting a doe with her fawn by the lake.

Family Bonding is Easier without the Distractions

If you don’t bring the electronic distractions with you, RV travel can be a great time for the family to bond. Find a family hobby that you can work on together. Photography is something for all ages, and pictures are some of the best “souvenirs.” Jigsaw puzzles, non-electronic board games, reading great books aloud to each other, and hiking out-of-doors all contribute to family fun and companionship. Record your days in a journal so the memories last longer than a lifetime.

Surprisingly, RV Travel can be more Economical than other Vacations

If you want to save money, an RV is a good investment, and one that may not cost as much as you expect. If you are not ready to make a long-term commitment to RVing, you might consider an RV rental. You can keep the price down by purchasing a used motor home. One option is looking for used RVs for sale by owner. Although gas prices have been high, RV owners have discovered that if they keep their speed at 55, they save gas. You’ll save on meals and lodging costs as well.

Have you always wanted to really see America? Do you want to meet interesting people? Does the thought of being in control of your itinerary appeal to you? If you said “yes” to these questions, maybe it’s time for you to plan your RV adventure. Bon voyage!

For people who want a quality car without sacrificing on comfort, economy, and environment; the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid will meet or exceed their expectations. By combining electric power with gas power, the hybrid car is able to deliver better gas mileage and save the owner from having to empty their bank account just to full the gas tank.

Just because you want an economy car doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve to have a comfortable ride. The economy minded person should not have to surrender comfort, the Honda Civic hybrid has CD/CDR/CDRW/MP3 audio system, giving the choice of how you want your music served. It even comes with a USB interface if you would prefer that method to dish up your tunes. To keep you from getting lost or having to take the long way around and wasting gas, the Honda Civic Hybrid offers satellite navigation equipped with voice recognition and hands free Bluetooth to help you be a safer driver.

If you like leather, and who doesn’t, you can add leather trim to your hybrid’s interior and a wrapped steering wheel to provide a slip proof grip. With the leather option comes other features. To keep you warm on long chilly drives the Honda Civic Hybrid has heated seats in the front and heated side mirrors to ensure that you can see.

This sleek, sporty hybrid comes with standard features, such as, fuel injection, front wheel drive, seat belt safety features including 3 point tension system for all passengers, airbags, anti-locking brakes, and much more. It also has the new drive-by wire technology that helps provide better handling. To get better fuel efficiency and still provide acceleration when need, the Honda Civic Hybrid uses continuously variable transmission in place of the traditional transmissions.

The 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid has one of the best safety ratings on the market. This is because of the advanced compatibility engineering that is put into Honda’s cars. Honda has tested and refined a body structure that improves the safety of the occupants in a front end collisions. It also has daytime running lights to enhance visibility. It helps protect the drive and front passenger in rear end collisions by having the head rest move forward and up to help prevent neck injury.

More of the safety features include airbags for both the front seats, with side curtain airbags to protect in the case of being hit on the side. Honda Civic Hybrid provides the extra security of special anchors for the car seats and booster seats that are required by law for children.

For people who live in California or other states that are requiring zero emission status. The Honda Civic Hybrid meets the standards set by the California Air Resources Board. These standards include a fifteen year warranty on the Honda Civics Hybrid emissions equipment.

Even though the 2009 Honda Civic Hybrid runs partly on electricity, you will never need to pull over to plug in your car. The Hybrid recharges its batteries by using regenerative braking and recharges while cruising as well.

The Honda 2009 Civic Hybrid is not for everyone. The Honda Civic Hybrid is only for the type of people who want it all. Comfort, to lower their carbon footprint and a car that is gentle on the pocket book. With a MSRP of under 30,000 and getting 40 miles to the gallon in the city and 45 miles to the gallon on the highway delivers savings with style, grace and safety.