This is default featured slide 1 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.This theme is Bloggerized by Lasantha Bandara - Premiumbloggertemplates.com.

This is default featured slide 2 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.This theme is Bloggerized by Lasantha Bandara - Premiumbloggertemplates.com.

This is default featured slide 3 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.This theme is Bloggerized by Lasantha Bandara - Premiumbloggertemplates.com.

This is default featured slide 4 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.This theme is Bloggerized by Lasantha Bandara - Premiumbloggertemplates.com.

This is default featured slide 5 title

Go to Blogger edit html and find these sentences.Now replace these sentences with your own descriptions.This theme is Bloggerized by Lasantha Bandara - Premiumbloggertemplates.com.

Monday, September 13, 2010

2005 BMW Z4 - 3.0L L6, Soft-Top Convertible, SMG Transmission

What I Say:  BMW bumped up the Z3 to a Z4 and made it bigger and a little more powerful.  Its fun car to drive however its a little small for my tall frame.  The SMG is pretty cool, but I say step it up, buy a Boxster, and learn to drive stick.


“Exhilarating driving dynamics, long list of standard safety features, refined drivetrains, excellent build quality.”– Edmunds.com



This Vehicle is equipped with....

Premium Package
• power soft convertible top
• 8-way power front sport seats w/3-way driver seat memory
• BMW Assist
• auto-dimming interior/exterior mirrors
• storage package
Sport Package
• Driving Dynamics Control (sport button)
• 18" x 8.0 front/18" x 8.5" rear ellipsoid alloy wheels
• P225/40R18 front/P255/35R18 rear run-flat tires
• sport suspension
Sequential Manual Gearbox
Multi-function steering wheel
Green stripe windscreen
Hardtop preparation
Smoker's package
Heated front seats
Rain sensor and auto headlight
Xenon headlights
Automatic climate control
Cruise Control
Radio control US
In-dash CD player
Premium hi-fi system
CD changer preparation
White turn-signal lights
CO2 control
CO2 relevant vehicles


Introduction
The Z4 is the successor to the much loved Z3, which saw unfaltering popularity among young and old upon its introduction in 1996. Its successor is only offered as a roadster and has dropped its predecessor's sleek, scantily clad version of BMW's corporate styling in favor of a "flame surfaced" exterior design. The styling is certainly a break with tradition, but even if you don't like the car's sheet metal, there is plenty to appreciate on the Z4. In terms of overall length and width, the Z4 is slightly bigger than the Z3. The body is stiffer, and measures were taken to reduce weight without sacrificing rigidity. Handling is sharper than before, and the electrically assisted steering rack delivers solid road feel. For power, the Z4 offers either a 184-horsepower, 2.5-liter straight six or a 225-hp, 3.0-liter straight six. For transmissions, there is a five-speed manual (standard on the 2.5), a six-speed manual (standard on the 3.0), a five-speed automatic or, as previously seen on the M3, a six-speed Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG). The power-operated top (which can go up or down in 15 seconds) has a special folding mechanism that allows extra storage space. BMW claims that the trunk can hold two golf bags. When the top is opened, the front-most section of the roof folds over the soft top like a cover and rests flush on the body when fastened in position, thereby eliminating the need for a tonneau cover. The rear window is glass rather than plastic, and a wind deflector and hardtop are also available. Sport Package-equipped roadsters feature Dynamic Drive Control (DDC) technology, which delivers quicker throttle and steering response at the press of a button. Although we still can't warm up to the exterior styling, in just about every other respect, the Z4 is a seriously capable driver's car -- and one of our favorite roadsters in this price range.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
BMW offers the Z4 roadster in two trim levels -- 2.5i and 3.0i. The 3.0i adds 17-inch wheels, leather upholstery, a center armrest, aluminum interior trim, a premium audio system, automatic climate control and heated mirrors. Any of these features can be added to a 2.5i. Note that wheel-tire upgrades are part of the Sport Package, which also includes a lowered sport suspension, Dynamic Drive Control (a feature that quickens throttle and steering response), and on the 3.0i, 18-inch wheels. Other options include a power-operated top, bi-HID headlights, seat heaters, power seats, a DVD-based navigation system and wood interior trim. Dealer-installed items include a hardtop, a wind deflector, a CD changer, satellite radio and an alarm system.
Powertrains and Performance
The 3.0i uses a 3.0-liter straight six that generates 225 hp and 214 lb-ft of torque. BMW gets a lot out of its engines. Enthusiasts, of course, will want to go with the 3.0 and its smooth, continuous power supply. If you don't want to deal with a clutch, you can opt for a five-speed automatic (with a Steptronic automanual gate) or, on the 3.0 only, a Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG).

Safety
Every model comes with four-wheel antilock disc brakes, run-flat tires and a sophisticated stability control system. Passive safety features include rollover protection, side airbags, active knee protection and child-seat anchor points for the passenger seat.

Interior Design and Special Features
The Z4's simple cockpit features a sweeping dash with a clean set of analog gauges, bolstered sport seats and little else to distract you from the road. Plenty of metallic trim comes standard, but wood trim is available for those who want to dress up their roadster a bit. Both the manual and power-operated convertible tops are easy to use, and the trunk has a generous 9-cubic-foot capacity (made possible by the elimination of the spare tire in favor of run-flat tires).

Driving Impressions
With its stiff chassis, large brakes and multiple transmission options, the Z4 provides great driving pleasure -- easily managed when driven near the limit on twisty roads. Ride quality is smooth, but commuters may find Sport Package-equipped Z4s too firm for comfort. Wind and road noise can also be bothersome at highway speeds, but once you turn off onto your favorite back road, it becomes a distant memory.



2008 BMW 750Li - 4.8L V8, Sport PKG, Comfort Access, Premium PKG


What I Say:  First off, yes it is a 7-series, and I would gladly and proudly drive this vehicle everyday without a seconds thought.  It drives like a dream, handles perfectly and has enough room that even the fattest guy you know would have room for himself and all of his fat fat children.  

Second of all however this car has more buttons than the Gemini capsule.  I don't know if they are trying to make up for the iDrive complex nature but seriously there are at least 5 dozens buttons for everything from the seat heaters to the volume control.  If you are in the market buy the long body because on the rare occasion you have passengers in the back they will tell all their friends about the room and since you are driving a 7-series you need the boost to you ego. 


“Exceptional handling for a big sedan, powerful and refined performance, numerous high-tech features, sumptuous cabin furnishings.” – Edmunds.com


Convenience Package  
  • auto soft-close doors
  • auto trunk opening & closing
Luxury Seating Package  
  • heated steering wheel
  • pwr rear & side window sunshades
  • front ventilated seats
  • active driver seat w/gentle massage
  • ski bag
  • heated rear seats
Premium Sound Package
  • AM/FM stereo
  • 6-disc in-dash CD changer
  • MP3 capability
  • LOGIC7 sound system
  • (13) speakers w/(2) subwoofers
  • digital sound processing (DSP)
  • radio data system (RDS)
Sport Package   
Comfort Access keyless entry
Sport Pkg w/Sport Suspension   
  • leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel
  • 19" or 20" wheels
  • dark ash wood interior trim
  • high-gloss black shadowline exterior trim
  • body-color roof trim strips
Infrared windshield
Floor mats   
Auto-dimming mirrors
Smoker's package   
Multi-contour seats
Heated front seats   
Park Distance Control
Adaptive light control   
Navigation system
DVD Area coding, North America
Voice-command  
Satellite radio w/1 year sub.
CD holder   
CO2 control  
Shipping package
First aid kit
CO2 relevant vehicles
Tire pressure monitor   

Introduction
As with the other top-shelf, full-size luxury sedans, the 2008 BMW 7 Series sits at the top of the premium car food chain, a great white shark in a tank of mostly pilot fish. Performance, luxury, space and high-tech features are found in great abundance here.
When it was last redesigned in 2002, the BMW 7 Series shocked Bimmer-philes with its odd styling details, chief among them a trunk lid that looked like it had been swiped from another car. This generation also introduced iDrive, BMW's multifunction controller that tended to bedevil even the most devoted technocrats.
Yet in spite of those quirks, this generation of the 7 Series has been a solid sales success for the legendary carmaker, thanks to its typical BMW traits of spirited acceleration, communicative steering and agile handling that make it feel like a car two-thirds its size. Contributing to this large sedan's nimble nature are standard active antiroll bars (Active Roll Stabilization) that automatically stiffen to reduce body roll. Those looking for even more adroit handling can opt for either the Sport Package (in the 750 versions), which provides firmer suspension calibrations, or the active air suspension (Adaptive Ride Package) that automatically firms up when the car is being hustled along a curvy road.
Although the 7 Series' iDrive has been roundly criticized, it has become somewhat more user-friendly through the intervening years while other luxury brands follow suit with similar multifunction controllers, which exist to minimize dash clutter.
When it comes to an engaging experience behind the wheel, however, the 2008 BMW 7 Series is still tough to beat.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2008 BMW 7 Series is a full-size luxury sedan that's available in three versions: the V8-powered, standard-wheelbase 750i and long-wheelbase 750Li, and the V12-powered 760Li.
Standard features on the 750s include 18-inch wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, a moonroof, leather upholstery, walnut wood interior trim, 14-way power front seats (including power lumbar support), dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, one-touch windows, Bluetooth, a navigation system with voice control, and a 10-speaker CD sound system with an auxiliary audio jack.
Both 750 models are eligible for a long list of options -- the only difference is that the 750Li can be had with ventilated 14-way power rear seats to complement the extra legroom in the back. There are also a number of available packages, including the Sport Package (firmer suspension tuning, 20-inch wheels and a three-spoke steering wheel), the Adaptive Ride Package (self-leveling air springs and electronic damping), the Luxury Seating Package (a massaging driver seat, ventilated front seats, rear sunshades and a heated steering wheel) and the Premium Sound Package (13-speaker Logic 7 sound system with an in-dash CD changer). For the ultimate in personalization, there is also the Individual Composition package, which offers unique interior and exterior color selections, upgraded leather seating, a choice of wood cabin accents and 20-inch alloy wheels.
Powertrains and Performance
The BMW 750i and 750Li are powered by a 4.8-liter V8 with 360 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. The (revised) 2008 EPA estimates stand at a respectable 15 mpg city and 23 highway. We've timed a 750i at 6.4 seconds for the 0-60-mph run, while a 760iL we tested was about a half-second quicker. BMW claims that sub-6-second times are possible with either drivetrain under optimal conditions.
Safety
Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, a driver's knee airbag, front and rear parking sensors and a four-year subscription to BMW Assist telematics are standard on every 7 Series. There is even a brake-drying feature that periodically wipes the brake rotors when the windshield wipers are in use. Rear-seat side airbags are optional, as is a Night Vision system, which uses an infrared camera to monitor obstacles nearly 1,000 feet ahead of your 7 Series.
Interior Design and Special Features
The 7 Series' cabin has the expected opulent atmosphere and a clean layout, thanks to the minimal center stack controls. The iDrive system was designed to consolidate various controls into one easy-to-use interface, but the learning curve is steep. Most basic adjustments can be made rather easily, but more complex functions require time with the owner's manual and patience. As you'd expect, the materials quality is high, though some plastic trim, namely on the upper door panels, is an odd misstep. A large rear compartment (especially in the long-wheelbase "Li" versions) and a well-shaped rear seat provide limolike comfort for those in back.
Driving Impressions
Whether you choose the V8 or V12, either engine provides a satisfying surge of power, while the six-speed automatic furnishes some of the quickest, smoothest shifts we've ever experienced. Steering feel in the 2008 BMW 7 Series cars is typical of the brand, with relatively high weighting and excellent feedback. Additionally, braking is sure and swift and body roll is minimal during cornering. 



Sunday, September 12, 2010

2011 Mercedes-Benz E550 Coupe



What I Say
I didn't get excited about the Coupe version of the new E-class until I drove it.  Its all the prestige of the E-Class without the middle aged stigma.  This is the hip E-class for the person who has 2 kids and they are old enough to get in the back themselves.  Its hip and sleek.  Nice option package and 







“Highly refined, prestigious and available in multiple body styles, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a luxury-car triumph.” - Edmunds.com








Additional Options


Premium Package:
  • iPod/MP3 Media Interface Cable
  • Dynamic Rear View Monitor
  • COMAND w/Navigation and Voice Control
  • iPod/MP3 Media Interface
  • SIRIUS Satellite Radio
  • Power Rear-Window Sunshade
  • harman/kardon Sound System w/Dolby 5.1
  • Heated Front Seats
All Season Tires
Chrome Door Handle Inserts
Rear Deck Spoiler
Wood Trim Package
  • Wood/Leather Shift Knob
  • Wood / Leather Steering Wheel
731 Burl Walnut Wood TrimBurl Walnut Wood Trim




Vehicle Overview
The E-Class sedan received its most dramatic styling changes for 2010 since adopting circular headlights 15 years earlier, and the redesign also brought a long list of new safety and luxury features. The lineup grows for 2011 with the addition of a station wagon and a 50-state diesel engine option for the sedan. In addition, Mercedes has introduced an E-Class coupe and Cabriolet for 2011 with unique styling and features. The E-Class sedan is available with four engines and rear- or all-wheel drive, and the wagon comes one way, as the E350 4Matic with a gas V-6 and all-wheel drive. Competitors include the BMW 5 Series, Audi A6 and Infiniti M.

Exterior
The 2010 redesign of the sedan was a radical departure from the previous look, and, according to Mercedes, 4 percent more aerodynamic. The headlights have slotlike inboard bezels, while the outboard portions resemble those on the C-Class. Eyebrowlike fog lights sit in the three-piece lower air dam. In comparison, the taillights are much more reserved. The E350 has oval exhaust pipes, and the E550's are trapezoidal.
  • Standard 17-inch alloy wheels
  • Optional 18-inch wheels
  • Optional xenon active headlights
  • Rear air suspension on wagon
Interior
The dashboard's layout mirrors Mercedes' GLK SUV, with an attached housing connecting the gauges to a center information display. Mercedes' knob-based Comand interface includes primary controls at hip level, ahead of the center armrest, like the systems in the C-Class and flagship S-Class. The E-Class has Mercedes' new "mbrace" telematics system that includes the ability to connect to the car with a smart phone. Optional folding rear seats no longer require you to flip the cushions forward first, a necessary step in the previous E-Class.





  • Wagon has seven-seat capacity with standard rear-facing third seat and power tailgate
  • Standard "mbrace" telematics system
  • Leather upholstery optional
  • Optional massaging, bolster-adjustable seats
  • Optional trizone automatic climate control
  • Panoramic moonroof option

Under the Hood
The E350 sedan carries a 268-horsepower V-6, while the E550 has a 382-hp V-8. Rear-wheel drive is standard on both, with all-wheel drive optional. The new wagon comes only with the 268-hp V-6 and all-wheel drive, and the new diesel engine is available only in the sedan with rear-wheel drive. The standard adaptive suspension alters shock-absorber settings to react to changing road conditions. A sport-tuned version with more dynamic settings is optional. All-wheel-drive models include Mercedes' Airmatic air suspension with driver-adjustable Comfort and Sport settings.





  • 210-hp, turbocharged 3.0-liter diesel V-6 (E350 BlueTec)
  • 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 (E350)
  • 382-hp, 5.5-liter V-8 (E550)
  • Seven-speed automatic transmission for all models
Safety
The E-Class offers a long list of safety features. Besides antilock brakes, traction control and an electronic stability system, the E-Class has nine standard airbags. Mercedes' Pre-Safe system, also standard, cinches up seat belts, repositions seats and attempts to close the windows and moonroof if it senses an imminent accident.





  • Standard Attention Assist system measures steering behavior and other parameters to sense driver fatigue
  • Optional automatic high-beam headlights
  • Optional blind spot and lane departure warning systems
  • Optional night vision assis t


Saturday, September 11, 2010

2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged


The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport Supercharged.  Perhaps there is something a little pertinacious that the name of your vehicle is a sentence long.  The thing is wrapped up in this big leather box with all of its wood and electronics is a real off-road machine.  Why spend around $40,000 Jeep and feel embarrassed about yourself, when you can spend $80,000 and piss off your stupid tree-hugging neighbor and her toxic battery filled Prius.  There are few companies that skate the line between pretending to love camping and enviroment and slowly killing it and for that I love Land Rover.  It is a real man's vehicle.

Drivetrain: 5.0-liter supercharged V8; 4WD, five-speed automatic
Output: 510 hp @ 6,000-6,500 rpm, 461 lb-ft @ 2,500-5,500 rpm
Curb Weight: 5,540 lb
Fuel Economy (EPA/AW): 14/13.8 mpg


“Refined road manners, powerful supercharged V8 engine, iconic Range Rover name and styling, high-class cabin...capable of tackling off-road conditions.” – Edmunds.com


Additional Options

HD Digital Radio


Vehicle Overview
Land Rover's venerable Range Rover can tackle tough off-road terrain that would foil less capable SUVs, yet it still has the cachet to warrant a front-and-center parking space at an upscale hotel.
New for 2010
New engines, revised styling and updates to the Terrain Response system are highlights for 2010 on the Range Rover Sport. The engines are 5.0-liter V-8s shared with the Range Rover (and Jaguar) and available in naturally aspirated and supercharged versions. The former makes 375 horsepower and the latter 510 hp.

Exterior
The Range Rover Sport features a new two-bar grille and larger air intake flanked by new LED headlights. The front and rear bumpers have a more sculpted design, and the front fenders have new LED indicators and air vents.

Interior
A new 5-inch thin film transistor screen within the instrument cluster houses an information display. The Range Rover Sport's five-person interior is trimmed with simulated metal pieces; real wood trim is also available. Heated leather seats are optional, and electrically adjustable side bolsters for the front seats are a new option.
·         Standard DVD-based navigation
·         Standard USB ports
·         Under the Hood
·         Two new 5.0-liter V-8 engines are offered.
HSE models use a 375-horsepower V-8 that makes 375 pounds-feet of torque


Safety
Safety features include:
·         Standard antilock brakes
·         Standard side-impact airbags for the front seats
·         Standard side curtain airbags
·         Standard electronic stability system with rollover mitigation technology
·         Standard front and rear parking sensors
·         Standard rear-seat child-safety seat anchors












Land Rovers have come a long way from their utilitarian safari roots. There was a time when these supremely capable off-roaders once roamed the African plains as freely as the animals migrating across the Masai Mara. Nowadays, spotting one of these current luxury SUVs in the wild is as likely as spotting a Cape buffalo in Times Square. Somewhere along the way, the brand lost its status as a savannah-taming truck, to become a status symbol for the well-to-do.
The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is the latest progression of the premium luxury SUV intended primarily for city dwellers. As the name would imply, the Sport model is a more nimble and maneuverable variant of the larger Range Rover. In reality, the Sport has more in common with the midrange LR3, as they share many of the major chassis components -- but with the higher-output Range Rover V8 engines. As such, the Range Rover Sport is marketed as a sport touring SUV, with greater road-going performance and a reduced focus on off-road prowess. Despite this urban focus, though, the Range Rover Sport still possesses plenty of wilderness-taming capabilities.
The vast majority of changes for the 2010 Range Rover Sport are indeed aimed at increasing its appeal to wealthy buyers seeking luxury and street performance. The most notable change comes in the form of two new direct-injected 5.0-liter V8s. The base V8 is rated at 375 horsepower, a significant 70-hp bump over last year's 4.4-liter V8. The supercharged V8, meanwhile cranks out a whopping 510 hp, a boost of more than 100 hp compared to last year and in the same league as the new BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Notably, fuel economy hasn't suffered as a result of the power increase (though admittedly, those mileage numbers are still quite abysmal).
This newfound power goes a long way toward making this 5,500-pound SUV feel more alive. But what should really be weighing on a buyer's conscience is Land Rover's reputation for reliability, something that's been poor in the past and is still a big question mark now given the brand's new Indian ownership. For this reason, we suggest a serious look at competing luxury SUVs like the X5/X5 M, Infiniti FX50 and Porsche Cayenne -- all of which are less likely to cause mechanical headaches. But for those who still desire a luxurious cabin, status, capable on-road handling and off-road capabilities, the 2010 Range Rover Sport is still one of the few games in town.
For Pricing information, see cars.com Pricing page.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2010 Range Rover Sport is a midsize SUV available in HSE and Supercharged trim levels.
The HSE comes standard with 19-inch wheels, a sunroof, bi-xenon headlights, foglights, auto-dimming rearview mirrors, an adjustable air suspension and adaptive damping, keyless entry/ignition, front and rear parking sensors, cruise control, power front seats, driver memory settings, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering column, leather upholstery, wood interior trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a navigation system with off-road tracking, a rearview camera and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon Logic 7 stereo with a six-CD changer, an auxiliary audio jack, USB port and separate iPod connection.
An optional Luxury package adds 20-inch wheels, adaptive headlights, automatic high beams, a heated windshield, heated washer jets, heated front and rear seats, available piano-black trim, premium leather upholstery, additional driver seat adjustments and a cooler box. The Supercharged model includes all of the above plus steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, Brembo front brakes, a Dynamic Response suspension system (enhances on-road and off-road handling), a unique grille and upholstery and satellite radio.
Stand-alone options for all models include a rear differential lock, various wheel styles, upgraded leather upholstery, a 360-degree parking assist camera, satellite radio and a rear-seat entertainment system with LCD screens mounted in the front headrests. Adaptive cruise control is optional on the Supercharged only.
For more Style information, see our Compare Styles page.
Powertrains and Performance
Range Rover Sport HSE models are powered by a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 375 hp and 375 pound-feet of torque. The Supercharged model features a blown version of that V8 that churns out an impressive 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control is the only gearbox available.
Included on all Range Rover Sport models is a permanent 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case and the Terrain Response system. This system optimizes the powertrain, suspension and electronics systems for increased traction based on five different settings: general, grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, sand and rock crawl. Properly equipped, Range Rover Sport models can tow up to 7,700 pounds.
Fuel economy estimates for the naturally aspirated engine are 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 15 mpg combined, while the Supercharged model is expected to achieve 12/17/14 mpg.Range Rover Sport HSE models are powered by a 5.0-liter V8 that produces 375 hp and 375 pound-feet of torque. The Supercharged model features a blown version of that V8 that churns out an impressive 510 hp and 461 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control is the only gearbox available.
Included on all Range Rover Sport models is a permanent 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case and the Terrain Response system. This system optimizes the powertrain, suspension and electronics systems for increased traction based on five different settings: general, grass/gravel/snow, mud and ruts, sand and rock crawl. Properly equipped, Range Rover Sport models can tow up to 7,700 pounds.
Fuel economy estimates for the naturally aspirated 4.4-liter engine are 13 mpg city/18 mpg highway and 15 mpg combined, while the Supercharged model is expected to achieve 12/17/14 mpg.
For more Performance Data, see cars.com Specifications page.
Safety
The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport features antilock disc brakes (more powerful Brembo brakes are fitted to the Supercharged model), hill-descent control, front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. Traction and stability control with rollover protection is also standard on all models.
Supercharged models equipped with the Adaptive Cruise Control system also benefit from the built-in Advanced Emergency Brake Assist system. This system uses the forward-looking radar to determine if a collision is imminent and primes the braking system. In extreme cases, the system will even initiate braking.
For more Safety information, see cars.com Safety page.
Interior Design and Special Features
One feature that most SUV drivers praise is the commanding view of the road, afforded by a high seating position. The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport takes this positive a step further by giving passengers a similarly clear view thanks to its elevated rear stadium seating. These raised rear seats may limit headroom for taller adults, though. Otherwise, the cabin can comfortably accommodate four adults. As in all Range Rovers, these occupants are surrounded by supple leathers, rich wood trim and top-notch materials.
Compared with the previous year's dash, the multitude of buttons and switches have been reduced by half, making for much easier operation. The quality of that switchgear, and indeed the rest of the dash, has been dramatically improved. Also new for 2010 is the inclusion of a towing assist system that works in conjunction with the optional surround camera. This system displays the predicted path of a towed trailer when backing up. Carrying over from previous models is the Sport's maximum cargo space of 71 cubic feet. This capacity is about average for this class, but the sloping rear window can hamper the loading of large and bulky items.
For more Interior Features information, see cars.com Specifications page.
Driving Impressions
Even though the 2010 Range Rover Sport is billed as a more nimble cousin to the top-of-the-line Range Rover, it still falls victim to some of the same pitfalls. A hefty 5,500-pound curb weight is the primary culprit, which is about 1,000 pounds more than an Infiniti FX50. This year's power increase helps to hasten acceleration, though, bringing estimated figures within striking distance of the competition.
This year's revised Dynamic Response system and adaptive suspension dampers offer up a bit more cornering ability, but truth be told, most owners won't be using the Range Rover Sport to slice and dice through twisting mountain passes. Despite the "Sport" moniker, we contend that the vast majority are more interested in a plush, quiet and smooth cabin -- something this "baby Range Rover" delivers in spades.

For more Driving Impressions, Recent Articles and Car Awards from our Editors, see cars.com Road Tests page. 

Blog Archive