Honda Accord spied

Your title says Honda Accord, but this looks like an accident between a car and a tent! Yes, but under that heavy disguise this has been confirmed as the next Honda Accord. Prototypes have started lapping the Nurburgring ahead of the Accord’s production debut in March 2008 at the Geneva Motor Show. It will then go on sale in summer 2008.

It’s a completely different car to the American Accord and Accord coupe, though.
But will there be a European Accord coupe this time round? Very doubtful. Although Peugeot and Renault are making coupe versions of their latest D-segment saloons (and Ford and Vauxhall have shown concepts), an Accord coupe would be a flop over here, Honda officials fear. They still remember the slow-selling, but technically interesting, Prelude and other coupe efforts, then.

Honda will instead focus upon growing sales of the Accord Tourer (nee estate). The concept car shown at Frankfurt was a thinly veiled version of the new estate, and the Japanese company sees quasi-premium estates as their prime opportunity for growth. The Accord Tourer will have some tough opposition though, with the likes of Mercedes’ C-class estate and Audi’s forthcoming A4 .So how does Honda expect to take on the Germans? By being more sporty। Even Lexus, which has ploughed its own route as a luxury and comfort brand, has felt the need to launch a performance model, the IS-F, but Honda arguably has a stronger sporting history with its Type-R brand and F1 racing pedigree.

And despite hints of Ford Mondeo estate in the side profile, and hints of Hyundai Genesis at the front end, the Accord concept looked very smart at Frankfurt.

Our spy pictures show these proportions should be carried over to production with only major changes - such as the addition of more realistic door handles, door mirrors and wipers.What else should I know about the Honda Accord? To start with the Accord will offer two petrol engines and a new version of its acclaimed 2।2-litre diesel। The oil burner gets Honda’s new NOx reduction technology for even cleaner running. The system uses ammonia in the catalytic converter which causes the NOx to change into harmless nitrogen, subtly different to Mercedes' Bluetec system.

In the meantime, the Tokyo Motor Show next month will see the launch of the new Jazz, though that’ll be the Japanese spec Fit model. We won't see the new Jazz in the UK for at least 12 months.

Also on the way is a new hybrid model - showcasing Honda's latest hybrid technology in a new package, rather than adapting an existing platform like today's Civic IMA.

Words: Ben Pulman
(www.carmagazine.co.uk)

Nissan GT-R leak

Nissan GT-R: the lowdown
First, a bit of industry navel-gazing. The car world in the 21st century is a molly-coddled world. Hawkish PRs usually enforce embargos on first pictures of new cars - designed to maximise the publicity when a manufacturer unveils its latest wares. But in an age of instant communication, it's difficult to stop photos pinging around the world, and that's exactly what's happened with the new Nissan GT-R.

The spinmeisters wanted to keep the new sports coupe under wraps until its debut at the Tokyo Motor Show on 24 October 2007 - but an American car magazine published its next issue cover online yesterday, and the power of the web has done the rest.

That's what's happened behind the scenes. Why should you care? Because you can enjoy the full official photos of the 473bhp Porsche-baiting Nissan a full week early. That's the democracy of the web for you.A classic case of industrial espionage! Tell me more about the new Nissan GT-R
A lot of the official information is still under wraps until next week, but CAR Online has harvested what concrete facts we can find online and sifted the wheat from the chaff। Prepare to be surprised - the new GT-R will experience quite a lot of change in its latest iteration।

Not least of which is the name. Gone is the Skyline moniker, replaced simply by the GT-R badge. Some will lament the passing of this historic name, but it will once and for all end the confusion over the domestic-market Skyline saloon, a rather more mundane workaday four-door compared with the tearaway sports coupe Skyline GT-R.

It's all change under the engine bay, too. Out goes the old straight six replaced by a new V6, believed to be a development of the unit in the 350Z.So the GT-R gets a new V6। Is it still a sledgehammer sportscar? Oh yes। Bolting a pair of turbochargers to the V6 guarantees pretty stratospheric outputs। We're talking about 473bhp and 433lb ft, which is enough to guarantee Porsche 911 Turbo-shading performance। Like the benchmark 60mph in just 3।5sec and a top speed of 192mph।

The cockpit is a business-like place to be, judging by this first glimpse inside. A huge tacho dominates the dial stack, letting drivers judge exactly the point at which you flick up and down the new dual-clutch six-speeder. Expect rifle-bolt gearchanges, like on the existing systems from VW and Mitsubishi.

I guess the new Nissan GT-R will still be a real techfest?

Oh yes. It has a computer-controlled four-wheel drive system to apportion torque to the wheels with the most grip. Nissan hasn't yet lifted the lid on the system's exact details, but you can safely expect it to be full of clever clogs electronics to give the GT-R its usual athletic responses.

Previous Skyline GT-R models have felt more like rear-drivers than big, heavy four-wheel drive cars, and we hear that the new one will develop those dynamics further. And to ram that point home, the company is planning a publicity stunt to prove the GT-R is faster than a 911 Turbo around the Nurburgring.

Enough titillation! When can I get hold of a GT-R?

Afraid you'll have to wait a bit longer for the real McCoy. CAR Online will have the full story on Nissan's new supercoupe next week. Come back on 24 October 2007 to read the full lowdown.

And if you want to buy a GT-R, you'll have to wait even longer. The car isn't destined to arrive in the UK until autumn 2008. But we've a sneaky suspicion it will be worth the wait...

Words: Tim Pollard
(www.carmagazine.co.uk)

Woodburner Basics

There are many different types of solid fuel burning appliances available:

Types of Woodburners

• Circulating and radiant
  
• Woodburning furnaces
  
• Pellet burning stoves
  
• Fireplace inserts or hearth stoves

Safety requirements will vary by the type of unit you choose. Generally, factory-built woodburners that are tested by a nationally recognized testing laboratory are superior to homemade units because of better construction, design, materials and testing.

One of the more popular types is a pellet-burning stove. The fuel (the pellets) is made from compressed waste material such as sawdust. These units have the same concerns as woodburning appliances and the same precautions should be taken.

Before you buy

Before buying, take time to do some planning. Contact your local fire department and/or building code officials to inquire about local ordinances on woodburning and other solid fuel burning appliances. Also, determine if a permit is necessary before you install such a unit.

When looking for appliances, look for one that shows quality craftsmanship, has tight-fitting doors and a detailed operating manual.

Also check to see if your unit is listed by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. There is a difference between being tested and being listed. Testing simply means the unit was tested, listed means the unit was tested and passed using the appropriate national standards from Underwriters Laboratories (UL).

Examples of nationally recognized testing laboratories that test and list solid fuel burning appliances include:

• Applied Research Labs (arl-test.com)
  
• Canadian Standards Association (csa-international.org)
  
• Omni Environmental Services (omni-test.com)
  
• Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (ul.com)
  
• Underwriters Laboratories of Canada (ulc.ca)
  
• Intertek ETL SEMKO (intertek-etlsemko.com)

Appliances made after October 1983 must have a label providing safety-related information. This label is required by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and provides information about the placement and use of the unit.

Placement of the Woodburner

The proper placement of a woodburner is critical. Have a qualified heating contractor experienced with woodburners and solid fuel burning appliances install your unit.

If your community does not have an ordinance covering these types of units, make sure your unit is installed to meet the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard #211. NFPA #211 is the nationally recognized standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents and solid fuel burning appliances.

Be especially careful to follow clearance requirements. Improper clearances are often cited as a cause of appliance-related fires. A few NFPA requirements are:

• A minimum 36-inch clearance to combustible materials, including walls, on all sides of a freestanding woodburner with no label or other manufacturer instructions. Clearance requirements are different for other types of appliances, such as furnaces and pellet burning appliances.
  

• Even when approved and UL listed wall protection is used, clearances to a combustible wall should never be less than 12 inches.
  

• Floors with wood, carpet, linoleum and other combustible coverings must have a floor protector underneath, in front of, to the sides and to the rear of the heat-producing appliance.
  

• Floor protectors should meet the heating appliance manufacturer's requirements, be listed by a recognized testing laboratory and extend at least 18 inches on all sides of the heater, unless the manufacturer states otherwise.
  

• Clearances between the stovepipe and combustible materials should be at least 18 inches.

Learn More

The information contained on this website was obtained from various sources। We believe it to be reliable and accurate. We, however, do not warrant the accuracy nor reliability of the information contained here-in. Further, State Farm® makes no guarantees of results from use of information contained herein. We assume no liability in connection with either the information contained in this publication nor the loss control suggestions made. Moreover, we would caution that it cannot be assumed that every acceptable loss control procedure is contained in this publication. Obviously, abnormal or unusual circumstances may require further or additional procedures.
(www.statefarm.com)

Car Insurance Shopping Tips

Savvy consumers know it pays to do the legwork and shop around for car insurance. Considering prices for a six-month policy can vary greatly between companies, why not take the time to compare rates for several companies? To help you in your quest for car insurance, we've compiled a few tips that can help you save money and make the right choices for your situation.

Before you get started, review your insurance coverages and keep your auto policy on hand to make fair comparisons to your current coverage. Then start shopping. Visit insurance Web sites and insurance agents/brokers and get quotes. Following are a few more shopping tips.

Learn the Lingo

Do you know whether or not you need PIP coverage? Can you explain BI or PD coverage? Before you buy, learn the basic auto insurance lingo — it can help you make coverage decisions that are right for you. Visit our insurance definitions section and expand your knowledge now!

Stay with a Leader

Visit A.M. Best, Moody's Investor Service, and Standard & Poor's for information on the financial strength of various car insurance companies and what benefits and features they offer.

Enhance Your Experience

For 24/7 customer and claims service and the ability to manage your policy and pay your bills online, you need a company that can do more than simply provide a car insurance quote on its Web site. Visit progressive.com to see how much online control and access you have with Progressive

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Preview

Toyota injects some overdue style into its popular hybrid crossover by Thom Blackett

What it Is

Toyota Highlander Preview – Chicago Auto Show: While executives and board members at other companies have been twiddling their thumbs, straddling the fence on whether or not to build a hybrid model, Toyota is busy unveiling the second generation of one its three hybrid vehicles, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid. It joins the Prius, also in its second generation, and the Camry Hybrid. Due to arrive in September, the new Highlander Hybrid promises 270 horsepower from an advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system, up to 31 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, standard four-wheel drive with intelligence, and a choice of Base or Limited designations.

Why it Matters

Toyota claims that since its debut, the Highlander Hybrid has been a good seller, attracting more than 31,000 buyers in 2006 and helping the brand capture 67 percent of the U.S. hybrid market. That’s great, but Toyota’s own data suggest that the next Highlander needs to be larger and more powerful. Hence, gas and hybrid versions will be larger and will boast 270 horsepower. This is especially significant since it not only puts a fresh, more competitive crossover in Toyota’s fleet, but it also marks the introduction of one of the market’s largest mainstream hybrid models. With its enlarged dimensions and impressive power ratings, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid rises above competitors such as the Ford Escape Hybrid.

What’s Under the हुड

The 2008 Highlander Hybrid draws power from an advanced version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the same technology used in the Prius and Camry Hybrid. In this application, the system incorporates a 3.3-liter V6 engine with the electric motor and battery pack for a combined horsepower rating of 270 (torque figures are not available). An electronic continuously-variable automatic transmission directs power to all four 19-inch wheels in cooperation with an intelligent four-wheel-drive system (4WD-i). In comparison, the 2007 Highlander Hybrid offered 268 horsepower and was available in both front- and four-wheel-drive versions.

What it Looks like

Well, one thing’s obvious – the 2008 Toyota Highlander has grown. In fact, the redesign resulted in an extra three inches in the wheelbase, a one-inch higher ground clearance, four inches of added body length, and three inches of newly-developed width. On the scales, all that extra Highlander equals another 500 pounds of curb weight, though it also translates into more than 12 cubic feet of added interior volume. Outside, sculpted wheel flares, a new front fascia, and 19-inch alloy wheels lend the new Highlander a more pronounced and aggressive appearance. Likewise, the tail has been reworked with restyled, wedged lamps and a redesigned fascia with integrated lower lenses. The interior is accented by pronounced gauges, soft shapes, and large control dials.

What’s Inside

Inside the 2008 Toyota Highlander’s all-new and larger interior are features buyers are sure to appreciate. Among them are seven standard airbags, including side-curtains spanning all three rows and a driver’s knee airbag; a rear-view camera that can be ordered separate from the navigation system; and a keyless entry and ignition system. Other interesting items include a rear DVD system with a nine-inch monitor, and a Bluetooth-capable JBL audio system. Another neat feature is the second row Center Stow seat – when used, it connects two bucket seats to create one bench, but when not used it can be packed under the front center console, allowing for a storage spot or walk-through area to the third row.

What Toyota Says

According to Don Esmond, Toyota’s senior vice president of automotive operations, “Highlander holds a unique distinction within the Toyota brand and within the industry. Along with the 4Runner and FJ Cruiser, it anchors one of the industry’s only three-vehicle, midsize SUV lineups. Equally important, along with Prius and Camry Hybrid, it is a key component of the industry’s only three-vehicle hybrid strategy.” Esmond goes on to say, “The 2008 Highlander takes the car-based SUV concept to a new level. I say that with conviction, because it’s a category we invented. As you can see, the new Highlander has raised the bar significantly.”

What We Think

You’re tired of hearing it, and we’re tired of writing it, but the fact remains – fluctuating and generally higher gas prices are affecting what we all consider when it comes trade-in time. It’s at that point when we face a dilemma – sacrifice space and performance for economy or take a significant hit whenever the fuel gauge reads empty. However, Toyota seeks to fill that void with the 2008 Highlander Hybrid, a sizeable crossover with added visual appeal, an interior chock-full of desirable features, and a 270-horsepower gas/electric powertrain under its skin. That should satisfy countless prospective buyers, but we’ll wait for pricing and more realistic 2008 EPA fuel economy figures before jumping for joy.

Photos courtesy of Toyota and Thom Blackett

(www.car.com)

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Preview

Toyota injects some overdue style into its popular hybrid crossover by Thom Blackett

What it Is

Toyota Highlander Preview – Chicago Auto Show: While executives and board members at other companies have been twiddling their thumbs, straddling the fence on whether or not to build a hybrid model, Toyota is busy unveiling the second generation of one its three hybrid vehicles, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid. It joins the Prius, also in its second generation, and the Camry Hybrid. Due to arrive in September, the new Highlander Hybrid promises 270 horsepower from an advanced Hybrid Synergy Drive system, up to 31 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, standard four-wheel drive with intelligence, and a choice of Base or Limited designations.

Why it Matters

Toyota claims that since its debut, the Highlander Hybrid has been a good seller, attracting more than 31,000 buyers in 2006 and helping the brand capture 67 percent of the U.S. hybrid market. That’s great, but Toyota’s own data suggest that the next Highlander needs to be larger and more powerful. Hence, gas and hybrid versions will be larger and will boast 270 horsepower. This is especially significant since it not only puts a fresh, more competitive crossover in Toyota’s fleet, but it also marks the introduction of one of the market’s largest mainstream hybrid models. With its enlarged dimensions and impressive power ratings, the 2008 Highlander Hybrid rises above competitors such as the Ford Escape Hybrid.

What’s Under the Hood

The 2008 Highlander Hybrid draws power from an advanced version of Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive system, the same technology used in the Prius and Camry Hybrid. In this application, the system incorporates a 3.3-liter V6 engine with the electric motor and battery pack for a combined horsepower rating of 270 (torque figures are not available). An electronic continuously-variable automatic transmission directs power to all four 19-inch wheels in cooperation with an intelligent four-wheel-drive system (4WD-i). In comparison, the 2007 Highlander Hybrid offered 268 horsepower and was available in both front- and four-wheel-drive versions.

What it Looks Like

Well, one thing’s obvious – the 2008 Toyota Highlander has grown. In fact, the redesign resulted in an extra three inches in the wheelbase, a one-inch higher ground clearance, four inches of added body length, and three inches of newly-developed width. On the scales, all that extra Highlander equals another 500 pounds of curb weight, though it also translates into more than 12 cubic feet of added interior volume. Outside, sculpted wheel flares, a new front fascia, and 19-inch alloy wheels lend the new Highlander a more pronounced and aggressive appearance. Likewise, the tail has been reworked with restyled, wedged lamps and a redesigned fascia with integrated lower lenses. The interior is accented by pronounced gauges, soft shapes, and large control dials.

What’s Inside

Inside the 2008 Toyota Highlander’s all-new and larger interior are features buyers are sure to appreciate. Among them are seven standard airbags, including side-curtains spanning all three rows and a driver’s knee airbag; a rear-view camera that can be ordered separate from the navigation system; and a keyless entry and ignition system. Other interesting items include a rear DVD system with a nine-inch monitor, and a Bluetooth-capable JBL audio system. Another neat feature is the second row Center Stow seat – when used, it connects two bucket seats to create one bench, but when not used it can be packed under the front center console, allowing for a storage spot or walk-through area to the third row.

What Toyota Says

According to Don Esmond, Toyota’s senior vice president of automotive operations, “Highlander holds a unique distinction within the Toyota brand and within the industry. Along with the 4Runner and FJ Cruiser, it anchors one of the industry’s only three-vehicle, midsize SUV lineups. Equally important, along with Prius and Camry Hybrid, it is a key component of the industry’s only three-vehicle hybrid strategy.” Esmond goes on to say, “The 2008 Highlander takes the car-based SUV concept to a new level. I say that with conviction, because it’s a category we invented. As you can see, the new Highlander has raised the bar significantly.”

What We Think

You’re tired of hearing it, and we’re tired of writing it, but the fact remains – fluctuating and generally higher gas prices are affecting what we all consider when it comes trade-in time. It’s at that point when we face a dilemma – sacrifice space and performance for economy or take a significant hit whenever the fuel gauge reads empty. However, Toyota seeks to fill that void with the 2008 Highlander Hybrid, a sizeable crossover with added visual appeal, an interior chock-full of desirable features, and a 270-horsepower gas/electric powertrain under its skin. That should satisfy countless prospective buyers, but we’ll wait for pricing and more realistic 2008 EPA fuel economy figures before jumping for joy.

Photos courtesy of Toyota and Thom Blackett

2008 Toyota Auris Preview

What it Is

New Cars: Toyota Corolla Preview – What you’re looking at here is the new Toyota Auris, as shown at the 2006 Paris Auto Show and otherwise known as the new Toyota Corolla hatchback – maybe – for the 2008 model year. Already debuted in Japan, the new Corolla promises to be bigger, more stylish and powerful than the outgoing model. There will also be an emphasis on safety. The Auris, for example, will probably come equipped with nine airbags and a slew of brake-and-motion safeguards like ABS, Brake Assist (BA) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC).

Why it Matters

Basically, it’s all about competing with the Civic, and to do that, the Corolla must be stylish, roomy, safe and efficient. Judging from these photos, Toyota has at least got the styling correct.

What's Under the hud

Engine-wise, the current 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine doesn’t quite match up to the Civic’s 140-horsepower unit, so perhaps we’ll see an upgrade to the 2.4-liter four-banger – making around 160 horsepower, or the Corolla XRS’ 1.8-liter rev-monster. Rumors also persist about a Corolla Hybrid variant to compete with Honda’s stated intent to debut a hybrid vehicle that’s smaller and more affordable than the Civic Hybrid.

What we Think

If the new Corolla hatchback looks like this Auris, we think it's another hit for Toyota. As to the sedan, time and a flight to Detroit just may tell what Toyota has in store. Check back here for more detail if – or when – the Corolla debuts।

(www.car.com)