SUV

Why Does My Gas Mileage Vary?

December 8, 2012 by admin 1 Comment

Estimating gas mileage is something that the Environmental Protection Agency leaves in the hands of car manufacturers. The mileage that you see published on the window sticker represents an estimate for city and highway driving as well as a combined mileage estimate based on 55 percent local driving and 45 percent highway driving.

Gas Mileage

Although the EPA estimates offer a good guideline, your mileage will likely vary. And, lest you think manufacturers can submit any number and get away with it, that is not the case. In November 2012, Hyundai and Kia admitted that it had overestimated fuel economy on a number of its vehicles and has been fined by the EPA. Moreover, the two Korean companies will have to compensate affected vehicle owners and will likely face multiple lawsuits over erroneous MPG claims. An EPA audit of the two companies followed extensive consumer complaints about lousy gas mileage.

According to the EPA, your gas mileage will still vary and for the following reasons:

1. How and where you drive — Clearly, if you put the pedal to the metal and are one to use your vehicle as a race car, then your gas mileage will come in lower than the EPA estimates. Also, if nearly all of your driving is around town, your gas mileage will fall. Then again, if you do extensive highway driving and use your cruise control, you can get better gas mileage.

2. Maintenance and condition — If you follow your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance intervals, keep your tires properly inflated and change your air filters before they get clogged, then your gas mileage will not suffer. Neglect your maintenance and you will see your fuel economy fall accordingly.

3. Types of fuel — Winter blend fuel is less efficient than summer blend and E85 fuel will cause your gas mileage to drop by up to 30 percent. Use the grade of gasoline that is recommended for your car.

4. Vehicle differences — No two vehicles are alike and weight differences of several hundred pounds are possible. For instance, all-wheel-drive generally adds weight to a vehicle. Added equipment including roof rails, door steps, larger wheels, safety features and an extra row of seating can also impact gas mileage. By the way, the fuel economy estimates are for a vehicle with a single occupant; fill up your SUV with seven people, lots of luggage and pull a camper and your gas mileage will plunge.

5. A new car — New cars still have a break-in period ranging from approximately 500 to 1,000 miles. This means that the piston rings on the new engine still have to adjust and your gas mileage will come in lower, at least initially according to CarTalk.com.

(See Also — Fuel Types and Your Car)

Your Mileage

Yes, your fuel mileage will vary and will often come in under EPA estimates. However, you may be able to beat the averages too by babying your car, taking it easy on the accelerator and the brake, and using cruise control on the open road.

See Also — Top Tips for Getting Better Gas Mileage

Road Machine: Custom Jeep Wrangler JK Rig for Heroes

November 1, 2012 by Hank Choi 3 Comments

Jeep Heroes

Jeeps are a lot like heroes. Tony Stark builds advanced armored suits and flies around in them fighting evil, when not roaming the concrete jungle in high-powered sports cars. James Bond is kind of like that. Except instead of donning armored suits, he wears bespoke Italian dinner jackets. Instead of nuclear-powered particle projector hand cannons, he uses SAS hand-to-hand combat and small arms with the occasional 12.7x109mm DShK heavy machine gun mounted on a stolen Soviet T-55 tank.

Both date models, drive hot rods and fight evil. Slugging it out with villains or rocking their debonair flair at a recent Wayne Foundation fundraiser, Iron Man and 007 rise to the occasion.

Enter Greg Adler’s Custom JK Wrangler: it handles like a gentleman on the highway and unleashes unstoppable beast-like rock crawling powers in the back hills.

Heroes Are Made

4WD CEO and off-road race car driver Greg Adler has undertaken Jeep accessories modifications not for the faint of heart on the pictured Jeep Wrangler JK. One look and it’s clear: nothing on this JK is stock. Customized from the inside out, this road machine packs a 425 horsepower 6.1 liter HEMI V-8 conversion engine by Screaming Lizard Customs, an Advance Adapters 2-speed Atlas transfer case, a Magnaflow cat-back offroad series exhaust, and a Custom Airaid air intake system. The front axle has been swapped to a Dana 60 G2 high 5.13 ring and pinion axle with Arb airlocker 35 spline and G2 35 spline chromolly axle shafts for more strength. The matching rear axle has a rear Currie anti-rock sway bar. That’s all well and good, as lesser rigs stop there – but not so with this Wrangler.

Rock Bottom to Soft Top

Check out this drivetrain suspension setup: 37×12.50×17 Pro Comp Xtreme mud terrain tires and 17×8.5 Pro Comp 5029 wheels strike fear in the hearts of the most extreme off-road obstacles, while a set of 4.5-inch Rubicon Express Extreme-Duty Long Arm kits and Rubicon Express monotube shocks ensures steady crawling and smooth handling on the highway. Bumper to bumper, Greg’s JK embodies the truest sense of the word “custom” — Smittybilt XRC front and rear bumpers with tire carrier in the back, Smittybilt X20 10 Comp winch with Hawse Fairlead and synthetic rope, Smittybilt XRC rock armor with side steps, a pair of Pro Comp 5-inch round off-road lights, Truck-Lite LED conversion headlights, and a Smittybilt billet grille continue the list of mods on this off-road equipped JK Wrangler 4-door.

A custom flat metallic grey vehicle wrap and Smittybilt front and rear XRC Corner guards with billet lockable gas cap accent the exterior – front and rear Smittybilt Neoprene seat covers complete the interior work with style and functionality. Top it off with a Smittybilt 4-door Wrangler roll cage and Smittybilt Extended Mesh top and we’ve got ourselves one lean, mean, trail-stomping machine.

Metal Works: Behind the Craft

To accomplish the engine and transmission swap, a full auto shop would be required to handle the work properly. The next most technically involving task would be replacing the axle and suspension kits, a project that calls for a very high level of mechanical expertise and tools.

Everything else is essentially bolt on and would require basic hand and power tools. Good things roll to those who wait: from start to finish, these mods (all available at the 4Wheel Drive site) would take approximately 3-4 weeks total nonstop to complete. Heroes take time and training to achieve herohood; this road machine just might be the world’s mightiest Jeep to save the day on the trails.

Happy off-roading, gents.

Refreshed Mercedes-Benz G-Class Drops Cover

April 11, 2012 by admin 1 Comment

Luxury off-road favorite receives a nip/tuck.

African safari venturers are accustomed to enjoying safe rides and may be escorted through Botswanian lion country or through a South African game preserve in the sturdiest of vehicles. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, an iconic sport utility vehicle with upright pillars and rugged good looks, is sometimes that vehicle of choice, transporting passengers through the Central Kalahari Game Reserve and to Makgadigadi National Park. With stops along the Okavango Delta and on to Livingstone or what is now called Maramba in Zambia, the G-Class can handle the toughest terrain while still looking elegant as it travels on hard city pavement.

Model Year Refresh

For 2013, Mercedes-Benz has significantly restyled its heritage SUV, but has done so without compromising its long-recognized good looks. Introduced in 1979, the G-Class of today offers a familiar covering, one meant to convey assurance and to signal that this is no ordinary SUV.

Those changes are most apparent inside of the cabin as the 2013 G-Class offers a new instrument panel, one with a full color display located between a pair of new round dials. The Mercedes COMAND infotainment system has been updated to reflect current M-B technology, offering full Internet access and a new navigation system.

Said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, “Our G-Class has been a force to be reckoned with for the last 33 years. In its latest evolutionary stage, it offers state-of-the-art, powerful engines, a further improved range of luxurious appointments and the very latest safety features, as well, of course, as its now legendary off-road capabilities. At the same time the design remains true to its down-to-earth, unmistakable style.”

Exterior and Powerplant

Exterior changes include new LED daytime driving lamps and new side mirrors, offering what the automaker calls “discreet changes to the exterior appearance of the luxury off-roader.” The G-Class’ safety features now include Blind Spot Assist, the parking aid PARKTRONIC and the adaptive cruise control system DISTRONIC PLUS.

Choose the G550 edition, and your SUV is outfitted with a 5.5-liter V-8 gasoline engine making 388 horsepower and 391 foot-pounds of torque. This engine is paired with a 7-speed automatic transmission that is now in its sixth generation. Since it was first introduced in 1960, this automatic transmission has been regularly revised and optimized, to keep up with today’s driving demands.

Choose the G63 AMG and that model is outfitted with a V-8 bi-turbo engine making 544 horsepower and 560 foot-pounds of torque. This model also features the ECO stop/stop system, important gas-saving technology that shuts off the engine when idle such as at a traffic light. Step on the accelerator and the engine immediately awakens, allowing you to continue on your way with no hesitation.

Model Availability

Model year 2013 editions will show up in Mercedes-Benz showrooms across North America this August. Pricing for this six-figure SUV will be announced just before its release.

Photos courtesy of Mercedes-Benz USA.

The History of the GMC Terrain

November 3, 2011 by admin 1 Comment

Small crossover is big on amenities.

GMC Terrain offers a more chiseled exterior
than its Chevrolet cousin.

Among compact SUV nameplates, the 5-passenger GMC Terrain is one of the newest on the market, introduced for the 2010 model year. Available in front- and all-wheel-drive, this spacious crossover is related to the Chevrolet Equinox and shares its platform, powertrain choices and many other features. Its look and feel is all GMC, with the brand’s trademark grill and trim levels. Two engines choices and standard 6-speed automatic transmissions makes this roomy crossover one worth your consideration.

2.4-liter Inline-four Engine

Standard engine for the GMC Terrain is an ECOTEC 2.4-liter (145 cubic inches) double overhead cam engine that is rated at 182-horsepower at 6,700 rpm and produces 172 foot-pounds of torque at 4,900 rpm. This engine is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, enabling the FWD Terrain to achieve 22 mpg city, 32 mpg highway. When equipped with AWD, this Terrain is rated at 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway. This engine consumes regular gasoline or E85 fuel. Its 16-valve double overheard cam engine features spark ignition direct injection, variable valve technology and is of cast aluminum construction. The compression ratio for this engine is 11.2-to-1.

3.0-liter V-6 Engine

Optionally, a 24-valve double overhead cam 3.0-liter (183 cubic inches) engine is available and is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The larger engine, rated at 264-horsepower at 6,950 rpm and producing 222 foot-pounds of torque at 5,100 rpm, is of sand-cast aluminum with cast-in bore liners and has cast aluminum cylinder heads. Featuring direct sequential fuel injection with electronic throttle control, the V-6 engine achieves an EPA rating of 17 mpg city, 24 mpg highway with the FWD model. With the AWD Terrain, the EPA rates this model 16 mpg city, 23 mpg highway. Like the base engine, the V-6 runs on regular gasoline or an ethanol blend. The compression ratio for this engine is 11.7-to-1.

Dimensions

If it is room that you seek, the GMC Terrain like its Chevrolet cousin, does not disappoint. This vehicle sits on a 112.5-inch wheelbase and is 185.3 inches long, 72.8 inches wide and 66.3 inches tall. Interior passenger volume is 99.6 cubic feet. Standard cargo space is 31.6 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanded to 63.9 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down. Weighing approximately two tons, this vehicle has a standard towing capacity of 1,500 pounds to a maximum of 3,500 pound when equipped with the V-6 engine and trailer towing package.

Highlights

Like all GMC products, trim levels are different from comparable Chevrolet products. For 2012, the GMC Terrain offers a new audio system, featuring an AM/FM/SiriusXM stereo with CD player and MP3 playback capability. This vehicle offers a 7-inch touch-screen Color Interface Display, USB port, Radio Data System, speed compensated volume, auxiliary input jack and outside temperature display standard. Bluetooth connectivity; power windows, doors and mirrors; a tilt and telescopic steering wheel; a theft deterrent system; OnStar; a rear vision camera; daytime running lamps and fog lamps are among the many standard features offered across the Terrain model line.

References

GMC: 2012 GMC Terrain

Auto Trends Magazine: GM Unveils Next Gen Chevy Equinox

See Also — On the Road With a Subaru XV Crosstrek

Top 7 Must Have Accessories For Every Porsche Cayenne Owner

July 26, 2009 by admin Leave a Comment

Your Porsche Cayenne is truly one hot SUV! But, have you outfitted your ride the way that you want it to be? Aftermarket accessories and supplies can personalize and protect your Cayenne so we’ve listed seven “must have” items for Porsche enthusiasts.

Porsche faithful nearly died several years back when the automaker announced that a sport utility vehicle would be joining the fold. After all, Porsche is synonymous with race cars and an SUV is, well, much too family oriented for the line.

But the Porsche Cayenne has proven to be a hit for the brand and has since been joined by the Panamera sedan, proving that the heart and soul of Porsche can live on in other vehicles. Of course, should someone decide that a Porsche minivan would be a nice touch, they’ll soon be faced with a full scale riot!

Enhance And Protect Your Porsche Cayenne

Every Porsche Cayenne comes well equipped as it should since it is one of the most expensive SUVs sold in the world. However, there are always “finishing touches” that can be included by owners, aftermarket accessories to help you customize and protect your ride. We’ve tracked down seven accessories plus one bonus we think that every Porsche Cayenne owner should consider:

1. Backup Camera – Porsche offers a rear backup camera with parking assist as an option for the Cayenne. If your SUV didn’t come equipped with this feature when you purchased it and you wish that you had one now, you can buy and install one yourself. Choose a backup camera system that offers superior viewing range as well as night time usefulness.

2. Cargo Liners – Keep the inside of your Cayenne looking great by installing a cargo liner. Some are designed for when the second row seat is folded up while others are longer and cover the complete cargo area when the back seat is folded down. Protect your Cayenne from spills, dirt and grime by installing a heavy duty vinyl liner.

3. Dash Cover – Intense heat or cold can have a negative effect on your dashboard as can penetrating solar rays. Who wants to bother with an ineffective sun shield when a fitted, carpeted dash cover looks good and offers ’round the clock protection for your vehicle?

4. Driving Lights, Fog Lights – If your Cayenne didn’t come equipped with driving lights or fog lights, do you miss them now? Fog light kits which include switches, relays, lenses and brackets can get the job done, just what every Cayenne owner needs to penetrate the deepest darkness, the thickest fog.

5. Floor Liners – Keep your carpeting looking new by installing no-slip floor liners in your cabin. Select a product featuring durable rubberized materials, strong enough to resist the coldest Vermont night or muddiest Montana day.

6. Grille Cover – If you plan on doing any off-roading with your Cayenne or have to navigate “mud season” roads, then a stainless steel no drill grille insert can provide the protection your SUV needs.

7. Scratch Remover – Sooner or later your Porsche will get scratched even if you don’t take your ride off road. Please note that some scratch removers are designed for windows and plastic surfaces while others are made to repair body scratches.

Bonus – Get yourself a Porsche Cayenne service manual. If you don’t already have one, this book will help you keep your Porsche running strong for many years to come. Order one online or visit your local Porsche dealer to get a copy, if available.

Top Automotive Brand

Porsche consistently ranks as the top automotive brand in the world. You can keep your Porsche Cayenne looking great by choosing those parts and accessories that will personalize its look while maintaining its long term value.

With Some Help, You Can Change Your Timing Belt

August 4, 2008 by admin 1 Comment

Changing your car’s timing belt isn’t as difficult of a job as you might think it is, but it is something that must be done at least once within your car’s lifespan. Most timing belts will last anywhere from about 60,000 miles to just over 100,000 miles; your car’s shop manual can give you a rough estimate when it should be replaced. For the record, timing belt failure can take place at any time, but if you keep up with your car’s maintenance trouble can be averted.

How A Timing Belt Works

As a backgrounder, a timing belt works to turn the camshaft at exactly half the speed of the crankshaft. The camshaft causes the intake and exhaust valves to open and shut in time with the engine’s pistons as they move up and down in the cylinders.

When the timing belt breaks, you won’t be able to go anywhere as the engine will no longer run. In some situations, a timing belt failure could damage or even destroy a car’s engine; way too many car owners do not replace this important part until it has broken. As you can imagine, this can be a terrible problem when you are stranded and far from help.

Worn Out Belt? Not Easy To Determine!

Unfortunately, there is no iron-clad method to check that a timing belt has worn out. Instead, changing it at prescribed intervals will reduce the chance that it will break before it can be replaced. Furthermore, many mechanics will also advise changing the water pump at the same time as the timing belt – even if it hasn’t failed – as most of the labor that’s related to replacing a water pump has already been done when changing the timing belt. This is your decision as a water pump could last as long as your car or it could fail at some point in the future. If the latter takes place, you could be faced with a significant car repair bill in addition to going through all the trouble of being without your car for several days.

Weekend mechanics often feel comfortable enough to replace their car’s timing belt without the assistance of a garage. With a trusty Haynes or Chilton car maintenance and repair manual by your side, you can lift the hood and remove and replace the timing belt (and water pump) in no time.

Shop Around And Save

You can buy needed automotive parts at a local auto parts store, shop online for parts from a wholesaler, or visit your dealer’s parts department to get what you need. Shop around — the price differential between auto parts retailers can be significant.

Photo courtesy of Wikipedia.