The 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon Black Diamond Edition Eats Road-Pavement For Lunch!

And then there was the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon Black Diamond Edition. General Motors Cadillac Division has answered the call for those of us who has that "need-for-speed!"

This 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition not only looks the part but can deliver as promised with its 6.2 liter V-8 Power-plant that produces 556 Horse-power with a six-speed manual transmission. The 19" black satin graphite wheels just adds attitude to this bad-boy of the road.

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Black Diamond Edition Specifications
Engine Location Front
Drive Type Rear Wheel Limited-slip

Engine
Engine Configuration V
Cylinders 8
Aspiration/Induction Supercharged
Displacement 6162 cc | 376.0 cu in. | 6.2 L.
Valves 16 valves.
2 valves per cylinder.
Valvetrain OHV
Horsepower 556 BHP (409.216 KW) @ 6100 RPM
Torque 551 Ft-Lbs (747 NM) @ 3800 RPM
HP / Liter 90.2 BHP / Liter
Max RPM 6200
Compression Ratio 9.1:1
Fuel Feed Fuel Injected
Block Cast-Aluminum
Head Cast-Aluminum
Ignition System Direct-mount ignition coils

To hear the full details on the 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon Black Diamond Edition that we test-drove order "Your Car Call" and learn all the details. harry@carconcerns.com

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Yankee Engineering At Its Best! The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible

The back of neck is getting dark and pretty" is how the Loving Spoon-Full" put it way back when.

Every Auto has its critics. Fro a former award winning new car dealers point-of-view I say, "bring Them On!"

It sure has been a blast tooling around Chevrolet's Super-Car, the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible,

The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible is a thing of automotive beauty and refinement.

Here are the Specs on the Camaro that we had at the Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds this week:

Exterior Features

*Body-color front and rear bumpers *Electric soft convertible roof
*Day time running lights *Driver and passenger and passenger power ,body-color door mirrors *Exterior dimensions: 190.4 in. overall length, 75.5 in. overall width, 54.2 in. overall height, 112.3 in. wheelbase, 63.7 in. front track, 63.7 in. rear track and 37.7 ft. curb-to-curb turning circle *Front fog lights *Halogen headlights with complex surface lenses *Luxury trim: leather on shifter * Metallic paint
*Rear window defroster *Trunk/hatch spoiler
*Weights: published curb weight (lbs): 4,116
* Intermittent windshield wipers

Fantastic Interior Features and Turn-on's

*Front 12V power outlet(s) *Element antenna
*Anti-theft protection *Audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player (reads MP3 format) ; includes RDS , satellite radio *Cargo capacity: 10.2 cu. ft. all seats in place *Compass *Trip computer: includes average speed, average fuel economy and range for remaining fuel *Cruise control *Front cup holders *Outside air temperature indicator *Floor mats *Intelligent driver front airbag, intelligent passenger front airbag with occupant sensors *Sports driver seat with four 8-way power ; details: power height and power tilt, sports front passenger seat: with one 2-way power
*Front seat belts with pre-tensioners for driver and passenger *Front seat center armrest *Headlight control with dusk sensor *Two height-adjustable front head restraints *Interior dimensions: 37.8 in. front headroom, 35.7 in. rear headroom, 42.4 in. front leg room, 30.0 in. rear leg room, 56.8 in. front shoulder room and 42.4 in. rear shoulder room *Low tire pressure indicator * Navigation system with arrows and voice *Ultrasonic Rear Parking Assist rear radar parking distance sensors *Remote power locks , speed sensing *Power steering *Power windows, express driver and passenger *Front reading lights *Rear seat belts for driver and passenger *Rear seat center armrest with trunk access *Rear seats" *Rear view mirror
*Remote control trunk/hatch release *Seating: four passengers "Premium cloth upholstery *Service interval indicator *Front side airbag (incl. head protection)
*Seven speakers *Leather-trimmed, tilt/ telescoping steering wheel *Tachometer *OnStar On-Board : includes engine shut down *Driver and passenger vanity mirror
*Ventilation system with micro filter *Voice activating system for phone and navigation system

Performance & Handling

*Engine: 6.2L Veight-cylinder OHV and two valves per cylinders *Premium unleaded fuel *Fuel economy: EPA (08):, 16 MPG city, 24 MPG highway,
19 MPG combined and 357 mi. range *Multi-point fuel injection *18.8gallon fuel tank *Power (SAE): 426 hp @ 5,900 rpm; 420 ft lb of torque @ 4,600 rpm

Ride & Drive Handling Feature

*ABS *Ventilated four-wheel disc brakes *Electronic brake distribution *Electronic traction control (via ABS & engine management) *Immobilizer *Rear mechanical limited-slip differential * StabiliTrak stability control
*Independent front and rear multi-link suspension with stabilizer bar and coil springs *Tire kit

Over-all we thought that the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro SS Convertible was an absolute automotive marvel from the General Motors Design Team.

Car Concerns Radio issue's a "BUY" and "HOLD" on this offering from General Motors.

Put this vehicle in your Car Collection and figure at least a treble return in ten years.

The Car Concerns Auto Index 100 will be investing and to a certain degree of volume be acquiring.

Recorded on June 24, 2011 using a Cat Smith Video Cam Shoot.

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Let's Drive! The 2011 Mini-Cooper Countryman S

What a fun-time we had with the 2011 Mini-Cooper Countryman S at the Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds this week!

The Countryman is the Mini-Cooper at the max, and the first with four side doors and optional all-wheel drive. It has a real volume of space and fits four adults with ease. The 2011 Mini-Cooper Countryman S has substantially more cargo volume than other Minis. Yet the Countryman retains the look and fuel economy that have established Mini as a premium go-to brand among small cars and their growing fan base. It for the most part, retains what Mini likes to call go-kart handling.

The grille of the Countryman's is more upright than that on other Mini models. With big and oblong, the headlight clusters that standout on this Countryman rather than classic Mini round, with two pipes for main beams and a ring of LED elements that serve as daytime running lights. This Countryman's front bumper has ducts in the corners under the bumper that direct airflow to cool the front brakes.

The Countryman side view features what Mini designers call a helmet roof. It's less flat and more domed than that on other Mini models. The Mini Cooper Countryman will offer wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches in diameter. Its rear hatch is bigger than that on other Minis, and it opens higher. This 2011 Countryman is unique in the Mini line, but it absolutely will not be mistaken for any other brand on the road. The 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman commands respect!

The Countryman's gauges and switches will look familiar to current Mini owners. With larger door openings, the 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman S is accessible to climb into, and its front seat bottoms are nearly three inches higher than those in other Mini models. That makes for a more confident view outward. The passenger cabin is truly an automotive engineering marvel.

The Countryman's rear seat is the largest difference in 2011. Each side slides fore and aft by up to 5.1 inches, allowing the Countryman's operator to maximize either rear-passenger or cargo space. With the seats moved back to maximum depth, there's plenty of head and leg room for rear passengers six feet tall, and still 12.4 cubic feet of cargo space (about the same as the trunk in the typical subcompact sedan). With the rear seats folded, the Countryman's cargo volume increases to 41.3 cubic feet, and that space is assessable through both the rear side doors and the hatch.

Like other Mini models, the Countryman is offered in two basic trim levels, and with the same engines. And those engines will be upgraded across the line for 2011. Improvements to Mini's 1.6-liter four-cylinder include new accessories that draw less power from the engine to improve fuel economy, and Valvtronic variable valve timing rocks!

The Mini's Centre Rail storage and fastening system is a standard feature on all Countryman models. Centre Rail is two aluminum rails running lengthwise through the middle of the interior in place of a conventional center console. Various devices, such as cup-holders, storage boxes, trays or armrests can be mounted and locked anywhere along the rails to the driver or passengers' preference. Options will include audio upgrades, a navigation system, a large panoramic sunroof and adaptive xenon headlights.

The first Countryman models have reached select U.S. dealerships, with the national pipeline filling by the spring selling season. Car Concerns Radio would guess that the base model will start at about $25,000. The Countryman S will add $3,000-$4,000 to the base price, with ALL4 all-wheel-drive adding another $1,800-$2,000. Loaded, and fitted with some of Mini's customizable features, the Countryman's should easily stretch into the $30,000 to $35,000 range.

The 2011 Countryman's ALL4 sends 100 percent of drive torque to the front wheels until it detects slip, whereupon the electronically controlled center couple sends torque rearward. It's not a high-speed system, though, and it shuts down at freeway speeds (140 km/h, or 87 mph).

Customization options include exterior graphics and paint combinations and special interior colors, upholstery and trim.

Talking about fun. Let's Drive!

Recorded on May 10, 2011 by Cat Smith Photo Shoots.


New 2011 MINI Cooper Countryman Specifications
Body Exterior, Pin stripe, Spoiler, Bumpers, body-color, Roof rack rails only, 4 doors, Power door mirrors, Heated door mirrors, Door mirrors body-color, Door mirrors chrome, Auto-dimming door mirrors

Convenience Features: Illuminated entry, Rear door bins, Telescoping steering wheel,
Overhead console, Automatic temperature control, 1-touch up Remote keyless entry, Tilt steering wheel, Passenger vanity mirror, Driver door bin, Garage door transmitter, Navigation system

Front beverage holders,Rear beverage holders,Passenger door bin,Power windows,1-touch down, Power moon-roof,Power 2nd row moon-roof, Air conditioning,Speed control, Auto-dimming rear-view mirror, Driver vanity mirror

Entertainment Features: Speakers 6, Speakers 10, Wireless connectivity, CD player,
MP3 decoder, AM/FM radio, Radio data system, Diversity antenna Steering wheel mounted audio controls, Lighting, Visibility and Instrumentation, Variably intermittent wipers,Tachometer, Rear window defroster, Outside temperature display,
Reverse sensing system, Rain sensing wipers, High intensity discharge headlights,
Front reading lights, Trip computer, Fully automatic headlights, Speed sensitive wipers, Delay-off headlights, Low tire pressure warning, Headlight cleaning, Rear window wiper, Front fog lights

Powertrain: Fuel tank capacity 12.4gal. Transmission, 6 speed manual. Engine liters
1.6. Cylinder configuration I-4. Torque 114 lb.-ft. @ 4,250RPM. Number of valves
16 Variable valve control. Sequential multi-point fuel injection.

Horsepower 121hp @ 6,000RPM. Recommended fuel premium unleaded
Transmission 6 speed automatic Manual-shift auto Steptronic Mode select transmission.
Limited slip differential.

Drive type: front-wheel

Fuel economy highway 35mpg...Fuel economy city 27mpg

Safety and Security, Perimeter/approach lights, ABS brakes, 4 wheel disc brakes
Panic alarm, Brake assist, Dual front impact airbags, Overhead airbag, Occupant sensing airbag, Traction control, Ignition disable, Security system, Electronic stability, Dual front side impact airbags.

Seats and Trim, Leather steering wheel, Sport steering wheel,Front seats bucket,
Rear seats bucket, Leather upholstery, Split folding rear seat,Max seating capacity
4, Front center armrest with storage,Heated front seats, Rear seat center armrest,

Specs and Dimensions: Front headroom 1,013mm (39.9"), GVWR: 1,750kg (3,858lbs),
GVWR:1,780kg (3,924lbs), Curb weight: 1,340kg (2,954lbs), Front legroom: 1,026mm (40.4"), Rear legroom: 859mm (33.8")

Engine bore x stroke 77.0mm x 85.8mm (3.03" x 3.38"), Compression ratio 11.00 to 1
Exterior height 1,562mm (61.5"), Turning radius 5.8m (19.0'), Rear headroom 953mm (37.5"), Exterior body width 1,788mm (70.4"), Wheelbase 2,596mm (102.2"), Front shoulder room 1,341mm (52.8"), Rear shoulder room 1,323mm (52.1").

Engine displacement 1.6 L, Engine horsepower 121hp @ 6,000RPM, Engine torque
114 lb.-ft. @ 4,250RPM, Curb weight 1,370kg (3,020lbs), Exterior length 4,107mm (161.7").

Suspension/Handling: Rear tires 205/50HR17.0, Wheel size 17", Four wheel independent suspension, Wheel size 18",Sport suspension, Front anti-roll bar, Rear anti-roll bar,
Rear tires 225/45VR18.0, Power steering, Speed-sensing steering, Alloy wheels, Front tires, 205/50HR17.0, Front tires 225/45VR18.0.

Warranty, Roadside assistance coverage 48 months/ unlimited distance. Maintenance warranty 36 months/36,000 miles. Corrosion perforation warranty 144 months/unlimited distance. Basic warranty 48 months/50,000 miles. Powertrain warranty 48 months/50,000 miles.


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Got The Need For Speed? Get A 2011 Subaru WXR STI Limited

Exuberant quickness and suburb handling, the all new model for 2011 Subaru WRX STI Limited 4 door sedan with sporty rear spoiler
new the STI 5 door wagon now comes standard with upgraded silver BBS alloy wheels and fog lights

new redesigned 18" alloy, 4 door model. 17.6 lbs lighter than 2010s std wheel
new BBS silver alloys now standard on all 5 doors and on 4 door sedan Limited
new driver's window auto up/down with pinch protection
new steering wheel, leather wrapped, with audio, Bluetooth, and cruise controls
new All Weather Package: Hi/Lo Heated Front Seats, Heated Outside Mirrors and Front Windshield Wiper De-icer (on with rear defroster button)
new suspension upgrades: thicker front/rear sway bars (like the 2010 STI SE) 21/19mm vs 2010 STIs 20/18mm. Pillow-ball front bushing replace rubber for a more positive feel. Springs- 15.6% stiffer in front, 53% in rear.
new stereo AM/FM/single disc CD, 6 upgraded speakers, hands free Bluetooth phone with steering wheel controls, bluetooth audio streaming, USB port, auxilliary input, iPod control capability, prewired for XM/Sirius.

Standard STI features..
2.5L DOHC intercooled high boost engine
Electronic Throttle Control
SI Drive (Subaru Intellegent) 3 modes: Intelligent (I), Sport (S), Sport Sharp (S#)
VDC, Vehicle Dynamics Control with 3 modes: Normal, Traction, Off.
Transmission Shift Up indicator light in Intelligent mode.

Multi-mode DCCD Driver Controlled Center Differential with nine settings, including three auto modes and six manual modes. The 3 auto modes are Auto, Auto Minus shifts torque to the rear for high-friction surfaces, and Auto Plus shifts torque to the front for low-friction surfaces. Manual mode varies front/back power split up to 50/50.

Incline Start Assist similar to hill holder, uses VDC, to minimize rollback when starting on a hill
Short Throw Shifter (note- there is an optional shorter throw shifter as well)
Power steering, quick ratio
6 speed manual transmission
Limited-slip front differential, Helical type
Limited-slip rear differentail, Torsen type
Speedometer to 160mph (WRX is to 150mph)
Tire Pressure Monitoring (TPMS)
18x 8.5" 5 spoke aluminum alloys
245/40R 18 93W Dunlop SP Sport 600 summer tire
BBS alloys, silver on 5 door and 4 door Limited
SuperSport 4 channel anti-lock brakes, Brembo
Ultra-low expansion brake hoses
Aluminum alloy front door sill plates
STI Electroluminescent guages
Power adjustable HID headlight hi/lo angle
Power windows, power locks, power mirrors
Climate Control AC
60/40 split-folding rear seat
Leather wrapped Momo steering wheel, audio, cruise control switches

Fog Lights (standard on 5 door)
18" BBS alloys, silver (standard on 5 door)
Power moonroof (not available on 5 door)
Leather trimmed interior (not available on 5 door)

Option Package

pkg #10 Navigation, List Price $1800 7" Touch Screen Navigation system with hands-free touchscreen Bluetooth (no steering wheel controls). 100w Audio System, AM/FM, single disc CD player, 10 speakers, audio-video multimedia auxiliary inputs. Speed sensing volume control, 3 FM bands.

Quickness...standard!


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2011 Infiniti G37 Sudan Journey Has Got...IT!

The Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds receives vehicles from all of the Automobile Manufactures of the World. Some just stick-out and rise above the others.

Infiniti has given the sporty G37 Sudan Journey a mid-cycle refresh for the latest model year, including cosmetic changes to the front and rear fascias, following an update to the interior for the previous model year.

For the 2011 G37 stems from an upgraded edition of Nissan's VQ-series dual-cam V6, keyed to an electronically controlled drive-by-wire throttle. It employs a high-tech valve controller, VVEL (Variable Valve Event and Lift), and revs all the way to 7600 rpm. At 7000 revolutions, peak power of 328-hp is made, with torque rising to 269 ft-lbs at 5200 rpm.

The G37 supports two transmissions, an incredibly quick shifting seven-speed electronically controlled automatic featuring downshift rev matching (DRM) and manual shift mode (via paddle shifters on the steering wheel), or a six-speed close-ratio manual stick planted on the center console.

Three of the four trim versions of G37 stock the automatic shifter. The three are labeled as a leather-lined base edition G37 sedan, the G37 Journey and the G37x AWD Sedan Sport. A version packing the manual transmission is the G37 Sport M6 Sedan.

Fuel economy for the powerful V6 is reasonably good, with a rating of 19/27-mpg (city/highway) for automatic RWD models and 18/25-mpg for AWD versions. Our manual transmission tester, while plenty of fun, delivers the worst fuel economy of the bunch at 17/25-mpg.

HERE'S A SUDAN WITH SPORTS CAR HANDLING

The G37's platform features front wheels mounted way forward with the engine positioned so that its center of gravity falls behind the front axles. This placement results in a weight distribution biased slightly in favor of front wheels.

Add acceleration out of the curve and the near-perfect weight-balance become obvious, enabling the aggressive driver to carve one corner after another with keen confidence; which is the way we work it on serpentine Engineers Road, testing the limits of tire adhesion.

Steering, through a quick-to-respond rack and pinion mechanism, feels firm despite the assist from a vehicle-speed-sensitive power boost, while competent factory brakes on most models are upgraded on our six-speed test-car, with powerful 4-piston calipers up front delivering impressive stopping power.

All G37 models carry Infiniti's vehicle dynamic control (VDC) device, which automatically checks lateral skidding on slippery pavement.

Harry says you just have to drive a 2011 G37 Sudan Journey for yourself.

Special thanks to Cat Smith of Cat-Eye Photo Shoots

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Presenting the 2011 Honda Odyssey

This week at the Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds Harry has the all-new 2011 Honda Odyssey that seeks to redefine the concept of the minivan with its aggressive stance and sporty "lightning-bolt" beltline. The lightning bolt not only provides an exclusive appearance, but also adds increased visibility for third-row passengers. All new interior features add more convenience for work or play.

While available entertainment technology introduces high-definition connectivity and split-screen viewing. This eye-catching 2011 Honda Odyssey is currently the best-selling minivan in the U.S. since being introduced this fall. Compared to the previous Odyssey, the 2011 model's lower roof-line profile (-1.6 inches versus 2010 Odyssey EX) and wider track (+1.4 inches) contribute to a sleeker, stronger and more dynamic presence with improved aerodynamics that help increase fuel economy and also translate into more interior width that makes a statement about the feel of the ride.

Interior:

* AM/FM/XM/CD Premium Audio System with 12 Speakers
* Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with Voice Activation
* Ultra-Wide Rear Entertainment System (RES) with split-screen capability
* External HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) input
* 150-watt AC power outlet
* Media tray with integrated beverage holder
* Removable 1st row center console with hidden storage
* New cool box in lower center stack (keeps items cool when vehicle is running)
* Leather-trimmed seating with heated front seats
* Memory-linked 10-way power driver's seat
* LATCH child seat anchors in five seating positions, including three positions in the second row to accommodate three child seats simultaneously
* Two captain's chairs in the second row provide adult comfort with center seat folded down
* One-strap stowable 3rd Row Magic Seat®
* Second- and third-row passenger window sunshades
* 15 beverage holders
* Trash bag ring

Exterior:

* HID front headlights
* 18-inch alloy wheels
* 12.6-inch ventilated front disc brakes
* Power side mirrors with integrated turn indicators
* Power tailgate

A quick look at the 2011 Honda Odyssey Touring Elite Specs:

* 3.5-liter i-VTEC™ V-6 engine with three-mode Variable Cylinder Management™
* Preliminary estimated fuel economy, Odyssey Touring Elite (City/Highway): 19/28 miles per gallon*

* Preliminary EPA mileage estimates determined by Honda. Final EPA mileage estimates not available at the time of printing. Use for comparison purposes only. Do not compare to models before 2008. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Harry is talking about the 2011 Odyssey Elite Van on Nationally Syndicated Car Concerns Radio which broadcast Monday Thur Friday from 9:00 to 11:00 A.M. (EST). Car Concerns radio is heard in some of the strongest automotive radio markets in the USA including Boston, Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando/Winter Springs, Pittsburgh, Seattle, Hagatna Guam.

Car Concerns Radio is "LIVE" Internet Streamed @ www.lifestyletalkradio.com/carconcerns and featured all over the World-Wide Internet on various Pod-Cast Sites.

Recorded on January 22, 2011 using a Harry Flip Video camera.



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2010 Los Angeles Auto Show - Lexus CT 200h

It's easy to fault Toyota and Lexus for not having pure electric vehicles yet but when it comes to hybrids, there's no equal. Add the CT 200h to the growing list of Lexus' luxury hybrid fleet.

However, the CT 200h is a compact. It looks more substatial in pictures but really is has less useable interio space than a Nissan Leaf.

Under the hood is a gasoline engine combined with an electric motor making 134 hp - estimated mpg is 42.

-Brian Moody

It's Here And It's For Real! 2011 Chevrolet Cruze LT-2

The wait is over! General Motors has manufactured the long awaited vehicle that gets close to 40 MPG and it's not an expensive Hybrid.

Chevrolet continues its climb back to the top of the automotive world against the superior driving dynamics of the Europeans and the reliability of the Asians, General Motors introduces another player, the 2011 Chevrolet Cruze LT2.


The Cruze LT2 is Chevrolet's offering to the world, a midsize car with segment leading fuel economy, and according to GM's fact sheet, engineered to represent the highest quality and durability standards.


Built in the USA in Ohio, the key competitors of the Cruze is Honda's Civic, Toyota's Corolla, and Ford's new Focus, all sales leaders in this segment.

The Cruze is affordable, topping out at just over $22,000 for its loaded edition and capable of fuel mileage numbers that rival Hybrids in the mid-thirties.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze LT2 will likely be a winner for Chevrolet -- a vehicle that won't thrill the driver but is designed to impress and offers value in this day and time of high gas prices.

The Chevrolet Cruze LT2 ($21,395) Model adds: 1.4-liter 4 cylinder ECOTEC Turbo with 138 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, 6-speed automatic transmission, cruise control, leather wrapped steering wheel & shift knob, USB port, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth for phone, remote start, Meridian leather, heated front, 6-way power driver seat, 16" 5-spoke alloy wheels.

The 2011 Chevrolet Cruze LT2 is a game changer and is an automotive expression of vehicles of the future.

Special Thanks To Cat Smith Photo Shoots.

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The 2010 Volvo XC60 Turbo-6 AWD! And We Like It!

Born to be safe!

It's only logical that at any given point in time there is one vehicle that offers its passengers greater protection than all the others, even if it is not quite possible to determine exactly which one that is.

Nevertheless, anytime the subject has come up in the past half-century or so, you could count on the name Volvo being suggested as a contender, if not the hands-down favorite. So, when the folk (a Swedish word, that) in Gothenburg say they've gone and built "the safest Volvo ever", it's wise to take notice. Not the safest "car", mind you, but the safest "Volvo".

That's partly because the Volvo executives are a polite bunch and don't want to ruffle the competition's feathers too much, but mostly because the 2010 XC60 T6 is a crossover, and not really a car. Nevertheless, they could probably also call it "the best looking Volvo ever" and not hear too many arguments, at least not from me.

The XC60's combination of a windswept wedge profile and shoulders wide enough to land a SAAB fighter jet on are straight off of the auto show floor. Genie bottle taillights are worthy of an exhibit in a design museum, and that doesn't even take into account the small vertical fins they create on either side of the rear window.

The marketing people at Volvo will likely tell you that they are for aerodynamic purposes, but you know there is an exterior designer somewhere with a poster of a 1959 Cadillac on his cubicle wall that grins every time they do.

The interior isn't quite as impressive, but plays to the Volvo faithful. Materials in the 5-passenger cabin are sturdy, rather than elegant. The one highlight is the optional Nordic Light Oak trim on a floating center stack that bends its way from the console to the dashboard in an oh-so-Scandinavian way.

If someone pulls in front of you, it beeps and flashes a red light on the windshield. Get drowsy and start driving erratically and the Volvo will stir you from your impending slumber with a wake-up call. All of these are options, but the marquee feature comes standard.

Called City Safety, it uses a laser mounted behind the windshield to keep an eye on things in front of you in stop and go traffic. If it senses that the vehicle you are following is slowing down, and you haven't done anything to avoid it, it will slam on the brakes on your behalf. Under 19 mph it won't bring the XC60 to a complete stop, but will slow it dramatically to lessen any impact. Under 9 mph it waits until you are about a yard away from calling the insurance company before it runs itself into a virtual wall, stopping in its tracks.

Bodily harm isn't too much of an issue when moving that slowly, but the averted fender bender is appreciated just the same. Unfortunately the owner's manual goes to great lengths to explain that City Safety is not designed to work when confronted with motorcycles, or pedestrians, two things that could really benefit from not getting run down at that speed.


EPA fuel economy rating of 16 mpg in the city, and not much more on the highway, 22 mpg. A 235 hp normally-aspirated version of the XC60 with front-wheel drive is also available for $32,395 and gets 18 mpg city/27 highway, which may be more in sync with the personality of the vehicle.

The less potent engine can also be had with all wheel drive, and both models come with City Safety, but not the leather seats that are standard in the T6. Those will set you back $1,700, meaning the turbocharged version really only costs $1,105 more than the sensible shoes edition, or about $25 bucks per horsepower.

This Volvo XC60 T6 AWD "ROCKS!"

2010 Volvo XC60 T6 AWD

Base Price: $41,550

As Tested: $47,800

Type: Front-engine, all-wheel drive, 5-passenger, 5-door crossover

Engine: 3.0L inline 6-cylinder

Power: 281hp, 295 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6-speed automatic

MPG: 16 city/22 highway

"I suggest that you put this Volvo XC60 on you vehicle shopping list. I drove it, I liked it, I'd buy it!' Harry Douglas

Recorded on October 21, 2010 using a Harry Flip Video Camcorder Green. Special thanks to Cat Smith of Cat Smith Photo-Shoots.

CAR CONCERNS ROCKS IN THE USA EVERY WEEK-DAY MORNING!
CALL HARRY MONDAY THUR FRIDAY...9:00 TO 11:00 A.M.(EST).
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Email: harry@carconcerns.com

At The Car Concerns Radio Proving Grounds- 2010 Dodge Advenger Express

You know this week-end you can go a buy you a luxury $50,000 car but this 2010 Dodge Avenger Express will do everything that a more expensive car will do at half the price!

When we first drove the 2010 Dodge Avenger Express our first thought that this just another plain and dull ordinary offering from the Auburn Hills group at Chrysler.

As we drove this 2010 Dodge Avenger Express a thing presented itself that we didn't expect. Respect, yes we came to respect what the Chrysler engineers had done with this Avenger Express.

They brought economy and performance together with an excellent 16-Valve Duel VVT, 2.4 liter engine with a Double Over-Head Cam and a 4-speed Automatic VLP Transmission. A smooth operator for sure!

Is the 2010 Dodge Avenger Express for you? You will have to decide that for yourself, but reflecting the MSRP numbers we have to say that the Avenger has the value factor built in.

"My friends all drive Porches, I drive a Dodge, I am just a ordinary, average guy!"

Trust us! You won't feel so ordinary in this stylish 2010 Dodge Avenger Express.

City MPG 21 and Highway MPG 30 are the EPA Fuel Economy Estimates.

Other standard features that we liked: Power Door Locks Operated Via Remote and Internal Switch. Child Safety Door Locks Located On Rear Doors.

Vehicle Anti-Theft Via Alarm, Sentry Key(R) Engine Immobilizer and Exterior Monitoring were great features as well


Special thanks to Cat Smith of Cat Smith Photo-Shoots.

CAR CONCERNS ROCKS IN THE USA EVERY WEEK-DAY MORNING!
CALL HARRY MONDAY THUR FRIDAY...9:00 TO 11:00 A.M.(EST).
BORDER-TO-BORDER...COAST-TO-COAST...USA TOLL-FREE: 1-888-454-3378
HEARD ON THE CAR CONCERNS RADIO NETWORK:
Boston on WBRX Pittsburgh WLFP Chicago WJOB Las Vegas KNUU-NEWS
Orlando-Winter Springs IPR Radio Pittsburgh KA KESK Hagatna KGUM
Internet Streamed @ www.lifestyletalkradio.com
Email: harry@carconcerns.com