Android Comparison; Xoom 2 vs iPad 2
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Almost all the new Android tablet launched in the market is always compared
with iPad 2, and no doubt this tablet is a tough one to beat.
Motorola recently...
2012 Sneak Preview: Asian Cars
200. That is the number of new and redesigned cars that are scheduled to debut in the next twenty-four months. You do not want to read about each reskin or 5-hp bump, so we have filtered the list to twenty-five cars that you most need to know about. Much of our information is hard fact, as part of the educated guesswork or pure speculation. We have a "speculation meter" for each car to indicate which is which. Here is the latest information about the cars you'll hear a lot about the next two years.
This is the third of four articles in our June 2012 print issue. On Monday we told you what you can expect of the American car manufacturers and yesterday we told you what to expect from their Asian counterparts. Tomorrow we will tell you about the send 10 trends of the automotive industry.
Acura RLX
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| Acura RLX |
Everyone has an opinion about what Acura needs -- a halo sports car, a V-8 engine, a rear-wheel-drive full-size car, you name it -- but we think what the company needs more than anything is a product strategy that makes sense. Acura dealers will soon be selling an ILX that's almost the same size as the TSX for substantially less money. And for years now, the flagship RL has competed against the TL, which is practically the same size and has more horsepower.
Finally, it seems, we're seeing something sensible from the company: a flagship that's actually a flagship. Previewed by the crazy-eyed RLX concept car you see here, the RL's replacement will grow a full size to compete with the Lexus LS460 in interior volume -- but without a considerable weight increase over the current car.
Of course, Honda loves to do things differently, so the top version of the RLX will not have a V-8. Instead, the "Sport Hybrid" will use the SH-AWD system that we first saw previewed by the NSX concept but flipped 180 degrees. It uses a transverse 3.5-liter direct-injected V-6 and electric motor bolted to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic to drive the front wheels -- and two additional motors to provide torque-vectored power to the back. Total system output is 370 hp, and Acura is hoping for a 30-mpg EPA combined rating.
The base front-wheel-drive version will use a rear-wheel steering system that, according to Acura, bestows the RLX with handling comparable to the best rear-wheel-drive cars. We'll have to wait to see how Porsche and BMW feel about that, but in the meantime, we're just thrilled that Acura's product line is getting the real flagship it has needed for so long.
What: The new RL -- or Replacement Legend
When: This fall
Wow: An Acura that actually makes sense in the brand's lineup
Speculation Meter: You Can Bank On It
Infiniti LE
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| Infiniti LE |
In 2010, Nissan delivered the Leaf, the first modern, mass-consumption electric car. In 2014, the company's upscale brand, Infiniti, intends to deliver the first electric car capable of wireless charging. Rather than plug in to a wall, LE drivers have the option of juicing their batteries by parking on top of an inductive charging pad.
To simplify the task of precisely aligning the car over the charger, the LE has a self-parking feature. In addition, a plug hidden behind the front emblem allows for conventional charging at a faster rate.
The rest of the driving experience won't revolutionize the electric-car market. The LE uses lithium-ion batteries and a motor borrowed from the Nissan Leaf for 207 lb-ft of torque at the front wheels and a range of roughly 100 miles. It will, however, set itself apart from the Leaf in looks, luxury, and safety technology. The four-door, five-passenger sedan makes good on its Infiniti badge with a lavish cabin, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and the Around View camera system.
What: An all-electric luxury sedan
When: 2014
Wow: It definitely looks nothing like a Leaf
Speculation Meter: You Can (Almost) Bank On It
Lexus Coupes
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| Lexus Coupes |
Lexus has been saying it wants to inject some emotion into its cars, and so far, so good. The wild LF-LC concept that debuted at January's Detroit show was, officially, just a design exercise. It generated so much positive attention that the company is now scrambling to build the coupe -- two of them, in fact.
The production cars inspired by the LF-LC will be based on the platform that underpins the new GS, so one could imagine the GS's 3.5-liter V-6 would slot right in, with or without the hybrid system that is offered in the GS sedan and that was hinted at by the concept car.
Those specifications are remarkably similar to what we expect to see in the forthcoming Acura NSX, which will use a gasoline/electric hybrid at the rear and electric motors up front to provide torque-vectoring all-wheel drive. The front-engine coupes, however, will be more elegant and luxurious than the NSX, filling the hole in the lineup once held by the beautiful SC300 and SC400 coupes.
Priced far below the $400,000 LFA, the Lexus coupes would nevertheless be expensive halo cars for Toyota's premium brand -- figure one will cost about $75,000 and the other between $100,000 and $120,000. That's a price point at which only the Mercedes SL has thrived, but this wouldn't be the first time Lexus has snuck into Mercedes-Benz's backyard, now would it?
What: A pair of coupes based on GS/LS architecture
When: At least two years
Wow: $75K for one, $120K for the other -- ka-ching!
Speculation Meter: More Fact Than Fiction
Subaru Impreza WRX
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| Subaru Impreza WRX |
New subaru Impreza means that we can expect a new WRX. The last time we got a new WRX (in 2008) it was a big disappointment, because its maker had decided that the market for hard-edged performance cars was dead and sent us a highly underwhelming, wet-noodle Rex based on the Japanese Impreza S-GT. North American Subaru fans were not happy, and the company pulled one of the fastest 180s in the automotive industry. The quickly reworked WRX was, thankfully, what buyers expected.
History will not be repeating itself -- in fact, Subaru learned from its mistake and is moving the WRX even farther away from the Impreza it's based on. That compact car has gradually shed its personality to better compete in the mainstream market, but the WRX will keep its STI-style fender flares and aggressive looks -- and Subaru hints that its chassis will be more "nimble."
Like its lesser Impreza brethren, the WRX receives a downsized engine, and here's where the news gets interesting: replacing the laggy, aging 2.5-liter flat four will be a turbocharged version of the 2.0-liter four-cylinder that made its first appearance in the rear-wheel-drive BRZ coupe. This engine is smaller, dimensionally, than the 2.0-liter in the regular Impreza, and the two engine families share almost no parts. A big difference here from the BRZ is that the WRX's engine will use Subaru's first in-house direct-injection system, whereas the coupe uses a Toyota system.
At this point, we can only guess that the 2.0-liter won't produce much more than the old 2.5-liter's 265 hp and 244 lb-ft of torque, but the last WRX wasn't wanting for power. More important, with a far higher compression ratio and direct injection, the new WRX (illustrated below) promises less turbo lag and vastly improved fuel economy. We expect to see the new WRX later this year -- and then the inevitable, even-more-potent STI version thereafter.
What: A replacement Rex
When: This fall
Wow: A turbo on the BRZ's engine
Speculation Meter: More Fact Than Fiction
2012 Infiniti FX50 Summary
2012 Infiniti FX50 Overview
Infiniti seems to be on the right track as a luxury crossover vehicles continue to grow in popularity. The FX is certainly more luxurious than the benefits that emphasized other crossovers have. The FX has a car-like ride and handling balance, because it is built with the same basic underpinnings as the G37 sedan. The FX50 is only available with four-wheel drive and a 5.0-liter V-8 engine as motivation.
Did we mention that it is a luxury crossover? Because the interior will not forget so easily. A plush interior punctuated with modern technology can and should be found in a vehicle with the price tag of the FX50. High quality materials surround passengers while the driver can indulge in several standard and optional features. Some of these features include climate controlled front seats, dual occupant memory system and entry / exit system to help the driver's seat and steering wheel.
However, the amount of technology in the FX50, cargo space is at a premium over the competition. Ride quality is poor as a complex handling system makes every bump in the road felt. If utility is a priority, we recommend you look at other luxury crossovers.
2012 Infiniti FX50 The Range
Body: SUV
Engine: 5.0-liter V-8
Transmission: seven-speed automatic transmission
Model: FX50
2012 Infiniti FX50 What's new
The second generation FX50 comes with a mild refresh in 2012, including a new front end tweaks, options and standard features. Exterior updates include a new grille, front bumper, fog lights, and wheels. On the inside, an updated instrument cluster and front heated seats are now standard on all models.
2012 Infiniti FX50 Outside
A bigger and beefier version of the FX35, FX50 has an elongated hood on a longer wheelbase to cover. Side vents are present peek behind the front wheel arches and a redesigned front end inspired, but the Essence Concept. High Intensity Discharge lights stretch on the front quarter panels and LED tail lights warn drivers behind you when braking. Other features include roof rails and aluminum foot pedals, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation system and Around View Monitor.
2012 Infiniti FX50 Interior
The Premium Package is standard on the FX50 and includes climate-controlled front seats, dual occupant memory system and entry / exit system to help the driver's seat and steering wheel. Other features include hard drive Infiniti's navigation system, an 8-inch color touch screen display and Around View Monitor with front and rear sonar system.
2012 Infiniti FX50 Performance & Handling
The FX50 is equipped with all-wheel-drive system sends right Infiniti that torque to the wheels, adjusting the road and driving conditions. A 5.0-liter V-8 engine produces 390 horsepower and includes Variable Valve Event and Lift Infiniti, stimulating consumption and improve emissions. Also available Rear Active Steer system is one that can turn the rear wheels to a degree. This makes steering more lively at lower speeds and improves handling when going faster. All four wheels are equipped with disc brakes with Brake Assist and Electronic Brake force Distribution.
2012 Infiniti FX50 Key Safety
The FX50 comes standard with the Technology Package, the Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention and Intelligent Cruise Control covers. Other safety features include Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Brake Assist with Forward Collision Warning, Front Pre-Crash Seat Belts, rain-sensing wipers and Adaptive Front lighting System headlights with automatic leveling.
2012 Infiniti FX50 EPA Fuel Economy
Not rated yet
2012 Infiniti FX35 Summary
2012 Infiniti FX35 Overview
Infiniti FX35 crossover is a combination of luxury and performance, but is a defect in the building, as is the case of the models in recent years. While Infiniti says there is room for five people and four full-size golf bags in the back can be a bit tighter than expected. With 62.0 cubic feet, other competitors in this segment have more room to offer. But what the FX35 lacks in utility enables him to speed and styling.
The long wheelbase is covered with bent sheet metal and run on 18 -, 20 - and 21-inch alloy wheels. The exterior styling and gives attention to the new addition of the Limited Edition with a tinted accents that will only increase. To motivate the FX35 has a 3.5-liter V-6 driving both rear or all four wheels.
Entering the fourth year, the second generation FX35 uses a seven-speed gearbox and uses multi-link suspension and four-wheel disc brakes. Available options include all-wheel drive, Rear Active Steer and Around View Monitor.
2012 Infiniti FX35 The Range
Body: SUV
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6
Transmission: seven-speed automatic
Model: FX35 AWD, RWD FX35, FX Limited Edition
2012 Infiniti FX35 What's new
A redesigned grille, instrument cluster lights and heated seats come standard are new for 2012. The Limited Edition FX35 all-wheel-drive model also makes its debut for 2012. A new body color, Graphite Shadow, replaces Platinum Graphite and a new 20-inch wheel debuts on the FX35 Deluxe Touring Package.
2012 Infiniti FX35 Outside
A long hood stretches across the front of the FX35 to cover a longer wheelbase and is accented with short overhangs. Side air vents peeking out from behind the front wheel arches and the front got a facelift with inspiration courtesy of the Essence Concept. High Intensity Discharge lamps cut a path in front of the FX night and LED tail lights alert drivers behind you when you stop. An integrated spoiler tops of a smooth-back roofline and dual exhaust tips poke out from under the rear bumper.
The new Limited Edition comes only in Blue Iridium and rides on 21-inch 10-spoke aluminum wheels. Tinted headlights, side vents and lower door trim accent the exterior of the Limited Edition. Other features include roof rails and aluminum foot pedals, Infiniti Hard Drive Navigation system and Around View Monitor.
2012 Infiniti FX35 Interior
Leather front seats are available with a heating and cooling function of heated feature now standard on all FX models. The driver seat has power adjustable side bolsters sports and a manual thigh extension. Technology lines the interior and is the centerpiece of Infiniti's double wave instrument panel. A bright white light back to the instrument cluster and a new addition to the FX 2012. A leather steering wheel and shift knob, dual front and rear cup holders, four 12-volt power outlets and power windows and locks are also standard.
2012 Infiniti FX35 Performance & Handling
The 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 303 horsepower and is mated to a seven-speed automatic transmission with Adaptive Shift Control. All-wheel drive is available, the FX35 and standard on Limited Edition. A multi-link rear suspension with Continuous Damping Control combines Infiniti's Rear Active Steer and on the road to keep down noise and the FX35 in the intended direction. Other available features include Intelligent Brake Assist, Distance Control Assist, Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Lane Departure Prevention.
2012 Infiniti FX35 Key Safety
The FX35 is equipped with safety features like dual-stage front air bags with occupant classification additional belt and sensors. Seat-mounted side-impact air bags and roof-mounted extra curtain side airbags are also standard.
2012 Infiniti FX35 EPA Fuel Economy
Not rated yet
2012 Infiniti EX35 Summary
2012 Infiniti EX35 Overview
The 2012 Infiniti EX35 continue holding down the spot as the smallest, most car-like crossover in Infiniti's lineup. The price tag also comes with the lightest of the group since the FX and QX check in a few slots above. The 3.5-liter V-6 engine produces 297 hp and takes the "sport" in the sport utility vehicle.
While the 2012 Infiniti EX gets high marks for his sportsmanship, it's not so great when it comes to usefulness, despite the hatchback shape. The back seat is tight, and the load is smaller than you would expect from the size of the vehicle. Still, it looks nice, drives well and comes with a wide range of standard features and optional cooling. If you like the idea of a sports sedan, but want a crossover drive like all the cool kids do, the EX is worth a look. But if you load the versatility inherent in most crossovers need, you should take a look at the game of this Infiniti's well.
2012 Infiniti EX35 The Range
Body: Crossover SUV
Engine: 3.5-liter V-6
Transmission: seven-speed automatic transmission
Models: EX35 RWD, EX35 AWD, EX35 RWD Journey, EX35 AWD Journey.
2012 Infiniti EX35 What's new
New to the EX 2012, HomeLink Universal Transceiver and is standard on the EX35 Journey. A new body color, Malbec Black, also makes its debut for 2012.
2012 Infiniti EX35 Outside
Standard tire and wheel combination on the EX include 18-inch eight-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in P225/55R18 all-season tires. A 19-inch five-spoke alloy wheels wrapped in P245/45R19 is also offered all-season tires. Automatic headlights, fog lights, heated mirrors and adorn the outside of the EX. Infiniti continues to bend sheet metal bent into curves that can be found in the wheel wells and fender skirts.
2012 Infiniti EX35 Interior
The interior features a power sliding tinted glass moonroof that tilts on the Journey model. A sliding sunshade is also available on the Journey model. Bluetooth handsfree phone system, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and maple-colored interior accents line the interior. A telescopic steering column, heated front seats are also offered on RWD models (standard on all EX35 AWD models). The 2012 Infiniti EX35 also features an available Around View Monitor, a bird's eye view of the surroundings of the vehicle during parking maneuvers shows.
2012 Infiniti EX35 Performance & Handling
A 3.5-liter V-6 produces 297 horsepower shall be the only engine available for the EX35. It is linked to a seven-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode, DS mode and Adaptive Shift Control. Control is enhanced by a speed-sensitive system that endorsed the EX35 to turn on a dime. Rear-and all-wheel drive are offered for 2012.
2012 Infiniti EX35 Key Safety
The 2012 EX35 includes anti-lock brakes, electric brake force distribution and Brake Assist as standard safety features. Other safety features include driver and front passenger airbags, side-mounted airbags and a tire pressure monitoring system. Belt tensioners and belt force limiters, Lower Anchor and tethers for children system and active headrests are also standard.
2012 Infiniti EX35 EPA Fuel Economy
EX35: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway
EX35 AWD: 17 mpg city/24 mpg highway
Base Sport Utility
Sticker Price: $35,600
Journey Sport Utility
Sticker Price: $37,900


















