The new car of BMW

BMW 323is

SLR turns on heat in UK for final fling

The black and white disguise has been designed to throw us off the scent – but there’s no mistaking this car as the Mercedes SLR McLaren, with its bold headlights and large three-pointed star badge.

As you can see, the prototype – spied on UK roads – doesn’t have a roof. And this confirms that the firm is readying a special speedster version of the amazing two-seater as production comes to an end.

It’s thought 75 examples will be produced, paying homage to the silver 300 SLR driven by Stirling Moss in the Fifties. Each gets a small windscreen and no roof.

The 620bhp supercharged V8 is mated to a five-speed auto box, complete with steering wheel-mounted paddles. Engineers are said to have shaved 200kg off the SLR’s kerbweight, so it’s set to cover 0-186mph in 26 seconds and hit a 217mph top speed – 8mph faster than any previous SLR, and nearly as quick as the Bugatti Veyron. Sources say the waiting list is already filling up – even though the speedster is expected to cost 750,000 Euros.

Insignia duo coming soon

Auto Express can reveal Luton based firm Vauxhall will showcase both four-door saloon and five-door hatchback versions of the new Insignia for the first time at the upcoming British International Motor Show.

Both models have been styled elegantly and boast a flowing, muscular design. They have deliberately been produced in similar styles to retain the attraction of Vauxhall’s latest mid-sized car.

Vauxhall have commented that offering hatchback, as well as saloon derivatives, from the start is particularly important for the UK, where five-door cars traditionally enjoy a high market share of the mid-size class segment.

The fuel consumption, emissions and driving dynamics of both cars will benefit from Insignia’s class-leading drag coefficient of 0.27 a result of all the hours spent testing in the wind tunnel.

Five engines will be available for both Insignia hatch and saloon, all of which meet Euro 5 emissions standards and come coupled with six-speed transmissions. The three petrol engines range from a four-cylinder 135 bhp unit to a V6 with 255 bhp. Two new 2.0-litre direct-injection turbo-diesels exclusively developed for the Insignia have power outputs spanning from 125 bhp to 155 bhp.

And for the first time the newly developed chassis will be able to be enhanced, a result of the innovative FlexRide system, which will ensure fast, efficient and equal distribution of torque over the four wheels leading to improved stability and traction and therefore performance.

It has also been revealed both models will reach UK showrooms by the end of the year.

Do You Know the Auto Insurance Basics?

If you drive, you know how crazy it gets out there. Accidents happen, fenders get bent, people get hurt. Or you're innocently parked in your driveway and a tree limb crashes through your windshield. When disaster strikes, auto insurance is there to protect you.

Why buy auto insurance?

1.) Auto insurance protects you against the financial risk associated with personal injuries and property damage caused by auto accidents, theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

2.) All states require you to purchase at least a minimum amount of liability coverage. Other types of auto insurance coverage may be optional or required, depending on state regulations.

3.) If you have a car loan outstanding, you'll generally be required by the lender to purchase at least a minimum amount of auto insurance.
Liability coverage
You'll be required by state law to purchase a minimum amount of some or all of the following types of liability coverage:

* Bodily injury liability: Protects your assets if you are held liable for an auto accident in which other people are injured or killed.
* Property damage liability: Covers repairing or replacing the autos or other property of other people.
* Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage: Unless you live in a "no-fault" state (where your own insurance will cover your losses), this coverage insures you against losses caused by other drivers with little (underinsured) or no (uninsured) auto insurance.

To adequately protect yourself, you may want to purchase much more than the minimum amount of coverage required in your state.

Collision, other-than-collision, and medical payments coverages
Although these types of coverage are optional in most states, it often makes sense to purchase them, unless you can afford to pay for damages yourself.

* Collision: Pays to repair or replace your car if it's damaged in an accident.
* Comprehensive: Insures your car against damage caused by something other than an auto accident (e.g., theft, fire, flood, vandalism).
* Medical payments or personal injury protection: Covers various medical expenses not covered by your health insurance or your passengers'.

And then the insurance company pays for everything, right?
Wouldn't that be nice? But it's not always true. Here are some things you'll always need to cover yourself:

* Deductibles: The amount of money that you've agreed to pay out of your own pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.
* Exclusions: Events or situations your policy specifically omits from coverage, such as property damage or personal injury you intentionally cause to others, or damage to your own car due to mechanical failure.
* Costs above limitations: Any expenses for which you're responsible that exceed the caps on the dollar amounts of coverage you're entitled to receive under your policy.

Driving a good bargain
Many factors affect your auto insurance premium, including your age, the state in which you live, the make and model of your car, where your car is garaged, and your driving record. Although you can't do much about some of these factors, here are some things you can do to help lower your premiums:

* Increase your insurance deductible.
* Eliminate optional coverages (e.g., towing and labor, rental insurance) from your auto insurance.
* Eliminate collision and comprehensive coverage if you drive an older car valued at less than $1,000 and could afford to pay for repairs if necessary.
* Ask about available discounts (e.g., low-mileage discounts, discounts for safety or antitheft devices) for your auto insurance.
* Avoid buying a vehicle that is prone to theft or expensive to repair.
* Keep your car in a garage.
* Drive safely to establish a good driving record.

Shop around
It's important to shop around for auto insurance coverage. Insurance premiums for the same coverage on the same car can vary widely among different insurers, even in states that regulate auto insurance rates. A particularly good time to investigate your alternatives is when your current insurance policy is up for renewal, but you can shop and change policies at any time. Get quotes from several reputable companies, but don't let price be your only consideration. Make sure the coverage offered by each insurer meets your needs, and find out whether the insurer has a good track record in the industry (contact your state's department of insurance for more information).

8 Things You Should Know About Auto Insurance

Dealing with the ins and outs of auto insurance can be as tricky and confusing as trying to untie the Gordian knot. Although we can`t help you with the knotty Gordian problem, the following recommendations could help you figure out some of the more complicated points of auto insurance.

• Determine appropriate coverage.

Help control the price you pay, just ask American Insurance Association executive Dave Snyder. For example, Snyder notes that half of your auto insurance bill covers liability and "that has to do with how you are going to use the vehicle, such as for commuting to work and your driving record. If you`ve got a clean driving record, you figure to pay less for insurance than you would if you had a speeding ticket on your record. You can control the other half of your premium which covers damage or loss to your vehicle, comprehensive and collision coverage."

• Shop around for insurance.

"In most states," Snyder reports, "there are hundreds of insurers competing for business, so it`s possible to save hundreds of dollars by obtaining quotes from different auto insurance providers." Picking up on Snyder`s theme is his AIA colleague, Nicole Mahrt. Mahrt urges you to work with your insurance provider to get more than one quote. "It pays you to shop around, especially if you feel you`ve been paying too much."

• Look for insurance discounts.

"Many insurers will give you a discount if you buy two or more types of insurance from them, for example auto and home insurance," confirms John Marchioni, senior vice president of Personal Lines for Selective Insurance, in Branchville, N.J. More cost-saving suggestions from Marchioni: "Ask about discounts for air bags, anti-lock brakes, daytime running lights and anti-theft devices."

• Consider taking a higher deductible.

"You could lower your insurance bill by increasing your deductible," Mahrt says. "But just make sure you can pay the higher deductible if you file a claim."

• Look into "stacking" coverages if you file an insurance claim.

Insurance trade group officer Daniel Kummer explains that stacking uninsured/underinsured motorist coverages means "you can collect from more than one of your auto insurance policies. Most states prohibit this practice, but there are about 19 states that either allow stacking or don't address the issue either through legislation or litigation," according to Kummer, director of personal insurance for the Property Casualty Insurers Association of America. "Be sure to check your auto insurance contract to see if it's allowed. "Be advised that you`ll likely pay a higher insurance premium if you have stacked coverage. "It could be 10% to 30% more depending on the litigious nature of the state in which you reside," says Kummer.

• Check with your insurance provider BEFORE buying a car.

"Your premium is based in part on the car`s sticker price, the cost to repair it, its safety record and the likelihood of theft," answers Selective`s John Marchioni. Remember to avoid shopping by price alone. "You want an agent and a company that answer your questions and handle claims fairly and efficiently," emphasizes Marchioni, senior vice president of Personal Lines for Selective Insurance.

• Notify your auto insurance company as soon as you change companies.

"Be sure to cancel your old policy," suggests PCI`s Dan Kummer. "Do it the same day, but don`t cancel your old policy until you`ve lined up a new contract. That`s important because some states like New York will fine you for the number of days you go without insurance." One last thought from Kummer on the subject: "Most auto insurers specify in your contract that you can terminate your policy any time you want by informing your company in writing about the date you wish that coverage be terminated or you can do that over the phone.

• Pick the insurance payment option that best fits your budget.

"Generally, most companies will give you the ability to pay over time, but that comes at a price," says Kummer. "Your payment could increase a few dollars each time you pay by installment. Insurers can accept payments monthly, quarterly, or every six months, what ever is most convenient for you. Remember, though, that the more you break down your payments, the more the cost adds up."

Tips For Buying a Car

Buying a new car is an exciting experience, though it can be complicated. There`s a lot of choice out there, and it can be intimidating. You want to make sure you`re getting the best deal, and that you end up with the car that`s right for you.

Here are a few ideas and thoughts that might help.

General Trends

Today, fuel efficiency is a major concern. Manufacturers have taken the high gas prices to heart, and are producing models that promise better mileage. Indeed, gas-electric hybrid cars are in high demand, and some auto insurance companies are offering enticing discounts for hybrid cars.

Before You Buy
Think about your needs. Got a big family? Check out the safest vehicles best suited for your clan. Do a lot of driving? You`ll probably want a car that`s comfortable to drive, balanced with reliability and good gas mileage. Think about what you`ll be using your vehicle for, and shop accordingly.

Do some research before you even leave the house. Check the internet for information on safety and reliability on various models. You might have your heart set on a particular manufacturer, but don`t let that distract you from the facts and figures that determine how good their cars really are (or aren`t).

Check your current car`s Blue Book value before you go shopping - you may be surprised to find out that dealers consider your car to be worth much less when it comes to trading it in. Be aware of its true value, and you could save money.

More and more vehicles are coming with technology packages that include GPS systems, satellite radios and more. These can be very tempting, but quite expensive. Many of these features will require monthly fees, so keep that in mind. However, having systems integrated into your vehicle right from the factory is certainly easier than adding them later.

What can you really afford to pay each month for your car? Always have your budget in mind, and consider that your monthly expenses for your car should include gas, maintenance and insurance. Stretching your bank account an extra fifty dollars a month for a nicer model may cost you even more if the gas mileage is worse, while a more reliable car could end up saving you money.

When You`re Shopping
Not only is comparison shopping a great way to find the best auto insurance rates, it could save you thousands of dollars when looking for a car. Compare car prices at different dealerships, or online at various sites (including the manufacturers` own website), and you might be very surprised at the difference.

Consider arranging financing for your car before you visit the dealership. Talk to your bank, or credit union. You might be able to get a better interest rate from a different source, or at least have more control over your repayment schedule. In order to do this, you`ll need to have a very good idea of the car you want and how much it will cost. Bear in mind to include money for any optimal packages you wish to include in the vehicle.

Know what you want - be aware that some sales people will try to steer you to the cars they want to sell. If you end up with a better deal, or different car, and that's alright for you, then good. But don't be strong-armed into a vehicle you don't want. For instance, if you want to buy a SUV, don't be talked into buying a truck.

When taking a car out for a test drive, some dealers might ask to get a photocopy of your license before you go. You may want to consider not doing this. Instead, request that one of their staff accompany you on the test drive, and hang on to your license. Some dealers might take the opportunity to run a credit report on you while you are gone using the information on your license which could this negatively impact your credit score.

If you don't like how you're being treated, or if you have any doubts at all about the salesperson or dealership, just leave. You'll quickly find the dealer that's right for you, and soon after, you'll be driving the car that's right for you, too.

Public auto insurance

Public auto insurance is a government owned and operated system of automobile insurance operated in the Canadian provinces of British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and Quebec. According to studies by the Consumers' Association of Canada, rates charged for auto insurance in these four provinces are lower than in provinces that use a private auto insurance system.In Quebec public auto insurance is limited to coverage of personal injuries while damage to property is covered by private insurers.Saskatchewan has the oldest public auto insurance system with Saskatchewan Government Insurance being founded in 1945. Manitoba Public Insurance was created in 1971 followed by the Insurance Corporation of British Columbia in 1973 and the Société de l'assurance automobile du Québec in 1977.

Other provinces have considered introducing a public auto insurance system. The Ontario New Democratic Party won the 1990 provincial election on a platform that included public auto insurance. After assuming office, Premier Bob Rae appointed Peter Kormos, one of the most vocal proponents of public insurance, as the minister responsible for bringing forward the policy.With the onset of the recession, however, both business and labour groups expressed concern about layoffs and lost revenues.The government rejected the policy in 1991.

Public auto insurance has also been considered in New Brunswick after private insurance rates nearly doubled from 2003 to 2005, but was ultimately rejected by the provincial government.It was also an issue in Nova Scotia during its 2003 provincial election and remains in the platform of the official opposition, the Nova Scotia New Democratic Party.[6] It was also under consideration by the Newfoundland and Labrador Progressive Conservative government of Danny Williams in 2004 as a "last resort" when private insurance firms threatened to pull out of the province in response to legislation rolling back premiums.

Auto insurance in the United States

Coverage available


The consumer may be protected with different coverage types depending on what coverage the insured purchases. Some states require that motorists carry minimum levels of auto insurance coverage in order to ensure that its drivers can cover the cost of damages to people or property in the event of an automobile accident. Some states, such as Wisconsin, have more flexible “proof of financial responsibility” requirements.

In the United States, liability insurance covers claims against the policy holder and generally, any other operator of the insured vehicles provided, do not live at the same address as the policy holder, and are not specifically excluded on the policy. In the case of those living at the same address, they must specifically be covered on the policy. Thus it is necessary for example, when a family member comes of driving age they must be added on to the policy. Liability insurance sometimes does not protect the policy holder if they operate any vehicles other than their own. When you drive a vehicle owned by another party, you are covered under that party’s policy. Non-owners policies may be offered that would cover an insured on any vehicle they drive. This coverage is available only to those who do not own their own vehicle and is sometimes required by the government for drivers who have previously been found at fault in an accident.

Generally, liability coverage extends when you rent a car. Comprehensive policies ("full coverage") usually also apply to the rental vehicle, although this should be verified beforehand. Full coverage premiums are based on, among other factors, the value of the insured’s vehicle. This coverage, however, cannot apply to rental cars because the insurance company does not want to assume responsibility for a claim greater than the value of the insured’s vehicle, assuming that a rental car may be worth more than the insured’s vehicle. Most rental car companies offer insurance to cover damage to the rental vehicle. These policies may be unnecessary for many customers as credit card companies, such as Visa and MasterCard, now provide supplemental collision damage coverage to rental cars if the transaction is processed using one of their cards. These benefits are restrictive in terms of the types of vehicles covered.

2007 BMW 335i Convertible

This fourth generation BMW convertible uses a unique three-piece retractable hardtop that reduces cabin noise and increases rigidity. Power is from a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder engine, generating 300 hp.

Mercedes-Benz SLR

Formula one is sport or business?

Bernie Ecclestone doesn't speak a word of Italian, but he understood Enzo Ferrari perfectly. He tells the story of an early meeting in a darkened office deep inside the famous factory at Maranello when Mr. Ferrari pointed to the top of the conference table and whispered, "here is the sport." Then, Ecclestone recalls, "his finger went underneath the table and he said, 'here, here is where we do business.'"

It is more than 35 years since Ecclestone spotted the potential of Grand Prix racing to generate money. Since then, the British entrepreneur has transformed it from a fringe activity into an industry that employs thousands and entertains millions. Together with the various companies that he set up to exploit the sport, Ecclestone is rewarded by taking at least half of the revenues. To begin with, it wasn't much. But profits rose inexorably, and in March 2006 the Formula One Group was sold to a private equity firm for $1.7 billion. Not only were Ecclestone and his family the main beneficiaries of the deal, but he personally was asked to stay at his desk in the front office.

Given that there are banks and stockholders involved now, rather less of the business is done under the table than it was when Mr. Ferrari and the other F1 team owners were making deals on the basis of Mr. E's famous handshake. In the almost 20 years since Ferrari died, the ownership of more than half of the 10 teams that currently compete for the world championship has passed into the hands of major car manufacturers. And although there have been murmurings of discontent from time to time, those manufacturers believe that they get value for money from their investment. The position of Ecclestone, who turns 78 in October, has never looked stronger.


It remains to be seen, though, whether the popularity (and profits) of F1 racing will maintain the vertiginous growth seen over the past 20 years. Ecclestone undoubtedly has a golden touch when doing deals, but his promotional skills are less assured, as demonstrated by his unsuccessful attempts to do for bike racing (MotoGP) and rallying (WRC) what he has done for F1. And although he is impressively adept at selling races to governments, he evidently finds it difficult to convert F1's golden image into public popularity.

Critics suggest that he is unable, or unwilling, to delegate specialized tasks like promotions and marketing to his own employees. His operating style has always been to permit his business partners to make profits, provided that he stays in overall charge -- and that those profits never exceed his own. He has accepted the idea of building F1-themed amusement parks, with plans already underway for the first to go up in Dubai, but progress is slow. It is not difficult to imagine how horrified he would be if such a venture were to prove hugely successful.

Heavy is bad. Light is good.

Heavy is bad. Light is good.
It's a simple idea, but it takes sophisticated thinking to make it a reality.

The Science of Power

The 2.2-liter, torque-rich engine in the S2000 produces blistering power while the high X-bone monocoque frame provides excellent rigidity and load distribution.
Adrenalyze Yourself
An impressive 237 hp at 7800 rpm and 162 lb.-ft. of torque at 6800 rpm gives an advanced lesson in acceleration. Factor in performance-oriented gearing, and the S2000 driver is treated to high-revving adrenaline.
S2000 CR - Extreme Performance
The factory-tuned, lighter weight S2000 CR provides more aggressive and track-oriented suspension settings, increased body and chassis rigidity and aerodynamic spoilers tuned for reduced lift and enhanced balance at high speeds.

Nissan Releases New Tiida and Tiida Latio Compact Vehicles

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the sales launch of the newTiida 5-door hatchback and Tiida Latio 4-door sedan at dealers acrossJapan. Since their debut in 2004, the Tiida and Tiida Latio have exceededcustomer expectations for compact vehicles offering apremium-quality, roomy interior and outstanding fuel economy andperformance. For 2008, both vehicles have been enhanced inside and out.Key changes include new exterior and interior designs, retuned electricpower steering, powertrain enhancements and a new "Plus navi HDD"package, among other improvements.

Both Tiidaand Tiida Latio feature all-new front-end designs, with new grilles,front bumpers and headlights, which impart a feeling of dynamic modernperformance. Tiida also features new taillights and a rear bumper for amore substantial look, and all Tiidas and Tiida Latios feature newwheel cover designs.

Eight exterior colors are available on Tiida, including titaniummetallic Silky Beige, metallic Brilliant Silver, metallic ChampagneGold, and pearl metallic Pacific Blue. Tiida Latio offers seven colorchoices, including titanium metallic Silky Beige and metallic BrilliantSilver.

Revised, Roomy, Sporty Interior
The interiors ofboth the Tiida and Tiida Latio have been redesigned for a new, modernlook, as well as increased usability and visibility. The new instrumentcluster design features new illumination colors changed to an orangehue and a fuel consumption display function. New metallic-finish dashboard paneling is available on Tiida models.

The modern look continues with a revised center stack withredesigned automatic air-conditioner controls and new illuminationscheme, as well as new silver finishers (available on 18G, 15G, 15M and15M FOUR models). Additionally, seat fabrics have been changed on 18Gand 15G models, while new seat fabric patterns and stitching colors areavailable on 15M and 15M FOUR. Stitching color changes also apply toTiida 18G, 15G, 15M and 15M FOUR models and Tiida Latio 18G and 15Gmodels with a black interior.

Powertrain Enhancements
The new Tiida and TiidaLatio models each receive a variety of powertrain enhancements,including the new availability of a 6-speed manual transmission on1.8-liter models for a sportier driving experience. Theelectric-assisted power steering system has been retuned for improvedfeel at low and high speeds.

Additionally, 2WD models with the HR15DE 1.5-liter 4-cylinder engineand XTRONIC continuously variable transmission (CVT) attain a fueleconomy level 20% higher than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards,thereby qualifying for the highest tax reduction*1 under the Green Tax program in Japan.

The HR15DE/XTRONIC CVT/2WD combination also features fuel economyfigures that more closely match actual fuel consumption, based on testsconducted under the JCO8 test mode, recently adopted in Japan tosimulate real-world driving conditions more accurately, as well as onconventional 10-15 test mode data. Also, this powertrain, under theJC08 test, attains SU-LEV certification levels by emitting 75% fewernitrogen oxides (NOx) and non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC) than thelevels required by Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations.

Special Tiida Packages
Tiida 15S and 15S FOURmodels are available with a new, affordable Plus navi HDD package,which includes an exclusive HDD-based CARWINGS navigation system with ahigh-speed, large-capacity 30-gigabyte hard disk drive;steering-wheel-mounted switches for audio controls and hands-freephone; a front center armrest with console storage box; rear seatcupholders; fully automatic air conditioning system; and chrome-platedwaistline molding.

The new Tiida is also available with two optional dealer packages a NISMO S-tune Aero Package and a NISMO S-tune Performance Package for further fine-tuning of the vehicle aerodynamics and drivingperformance. Individual NISMO components are also available separately.

BMW

---

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG (info) (BMW), is an independent German company and one of the world's leading manufacturers of automobiles and motorcycles. BMW is the parent company of the MINI and Rolls-Royce car brands.

BMW was officially founded as a public company in 1922, but traces its origins to the pioneering days of German aviation all the way back to 1913. Two of these pioneering men, Karl Rapp and Gustav Otto, are credited by BMW as the "founding fathers". However, BMW owes its actual founding by three men- Josef Popp, Max Friz, and Camillo Castiglioni.

These men brought BMW through many turbulent times in the company's early life as well as taking the company public in 1922 to form BMW AG. BMW stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke.

Beginning with aircraft engines, BMW AG produced a variety of products in its early years, eventually shifting to motorcycle production in 1923 and automobiles in 1929. The circular blue and white BMW logo, which has not been altered throughout the company's history, does not in fact symbolize a spinning propeller according to a BMW spokesperson (although the imagry did apear in post-WWI advertisements).

The BMW roundel badge is believed to have been partially derived from the logo of its predecessor company Rapp Motorenwerke[citation needed], while ultimately taking on the colors and checkers of the Bavarian flag. Significant aircraft powerplants of pre-WWII and WWII included the BMW 132 and BMW 801 air-cooled radial engines, and the pioneering BMW 003 axial-flow turbojet. BMW's factories were damaged badly in the war, and many surviving machine tools were confiscated by the victorious Allies.

Important Things to Know Before Signing off for Your Rental Car.

Before you sign the contract and drive away with your rental car, you need to make sure you really know what you have agreed to by signing that agreement. If something were to go wrong while you had the rental car, who would be responsible? How much are you really going to be charged when you return it? What happens if the car gets scratched while you are driving it? You need to consider each of these questions before signing a rental car agreement.

Rental Cars and Insurance

One of the first things you will be asked when you head to the check out counter to pick up your rental car keys is whether or not you want to purchase the rental agency's insurance policy. Do not say no without thinking first. If something were to happen to your rental car, would you be responsible for the damages? Without insurance, you would.

However, this does not mean that you need the rental car company's insurance policy. Do you have car insurance on your own vehicle? If so, find out what your current car insurance company covers on rental cars. You may have full coverage on rental cars with your current insurance provider.

Are you paying via credit card? If so, check with your credit card company. Many of them automatically put rental car insurance on the cars that are rented using their cards.

If you do not have insurance with either of these sources, then you need to consider buying it. Also, keep in mind that you will not only pay for the damages to the rental car if you are in an accident. You will also have to pay for the lost time on that car. If it takes three days to fix the car, you will pay for three days of rental on that car, since the rental car company cannot make money during that time frame.

Keep in mind that the damage to a rental car does not have to occur in an accident. If the car is scratched, you could be charged. Be sure to inspect the car thoroughly before driving it off of the rental car lot. Have any damages that you notice noted on your contract.

Hidden Fees and Charges

You may think that you know how much the rental car will cost when all is said and done, but you likely will be surprised when you get your final bill due to additional fees and charges. Of course, you will have to pay taxes on your rental car. Be sure you plan for this when budgeting for a rental car.

You may also be charged for gas. Some rental car companies charge a flat fee for gas and instruct their renters to return the car close to empty. Others will not charge the gas fee if the car is returned full. If you can fill the car up yourself, do so, because the rate the rental car company is going to charge for gas will be more than the gas station down the street.

If a driver on the contract is under 25 years old, expect to pay an additional fee, if the rental car company will even allow this driver to drive the car. Also, adding additional drivers to the agreement will cost extra. Finally, be sure to inquire about late fees, and turn the car in on time unless you absolutely cannot do so.

Renting a car seems like it should be an easy task, but there are many considerations that you need to make before signing the contract. Make sure that you know exactly what you are agreeing to do, and follow through with your end of the contract. This will protect you from unexpected and expensive fees when you return the car.

Car body parts

We want you to think of us, as YOUR entrusted, reliable sourcing resource and automotive parts industry expert. We are committed to consistently providing quality, high-grade, aftermarket (OEM replacement), exterior car body parts and lights, for most makes and models.

Our globally sourced, quality manufactured OEM product offerings and options, include part categories and part names, for your ease-of-use, convenience and reference.

We are here to care for all of your auto body parts, aftermarket car parts and all related aftermarket auto body parts needs, specialty requirements or upgrades and automotive detailing. Routine care and maintenance, repair and/or replacement auto body parts are a sector almost onto itself, ever expanding and with lots to offer your every need.

We are diligently working to earn your trust and build a lasting customer relationship, by offering a comprehensive under-one-roof automotive specialist, that wants to partner with owners, automotive specialists and enthusiasts, who SHARE THE PASSION and dream of THE ULTIMATE RIDE!

As a preferred supplier and global trading partner, we can offer discount body parts, car body parts, truck body parts and car exterior detailing and enhancement body parts, accessories and choice automotive products from around the world, for every vehicle and styling imaginable.

Across categories, makes, models and years of manufacture, we source online and through our extensive collaborative network, any and all car parts, auto parts, truck parts and pickup parts that you might have a need for. High-grade, in-demand body parts include: car lights, auto lights, truck lights, automotive lighting, headlights & taillights and the like.

A provider of choice and reputation, known for quality, customer service and satisfaction, exceeding expectations and going beyond, for any and all requests regarding automotive parts, we serve your best interest and get YOU the auto body parts YOU need!

These would include any special offerings, limited editions, discount auto parts, wholesale auto parts, products from auto parts store or any truck specialty parts store, car parts online, import auto parts, import car body parts, OEM parts, used body parts, used auto body parts and more.

2009 Audi A4 Avant revealed ahead of Geneva

Wagonistas, your chariot has arrived. After showing off the new-for-2009 A4 in Frankfurt, Audi has finally released the details about for its A4 Avant prior to its debut in Geneva next month.The estate version of the A4 is nearly identical to the sedan from the B-pillar forward, but now features 50-cubic feet of cargo capacity out back. An optional power liftgate is available and the load floor is reversible if you happen to be toting a set of used wheels in the trunk and the mat is coated in brake dust. Overall, the Avant gains about five inches in length, but is almost ten-percent lighter than the outgoing model.

Although powerplant details are scarce, those of us in the States will be stuck with the 2.0-liter TFSI mill, while sedan buyers get a choice of either the four-cylinder or the 3.2-liter V6.

We’ll have more from the show floor next month, but in the meantime, check the gallery below for a handful of high-res shots and make the jump for Audi’s press release.

OK, we’ve seen some of their previous work so we probably shouldn’t have expected much more this time around, but when we heard that Mansory had gotten its hands on an SLR and a Ferrari 599 GTB, we certainly hoped that it would figure out a way to enhance their gotta-have-it quotients. Alas, our prayers went unanswered. Done up in a matte gold and black combo, the SLR looks a bit toy-like, but it should manage to sell in the single digits at least. Which digit you choose to count the sales is up to you. The Ferrari 599 GTB Fiorano had actually been criticized in some camps for being a bit too evocative of the Chevrolet Corvette when it was first shown. The Mansory edition done up in white and carbon fiber looks even more Vette-like to our eyes. Thoughts of a ZR1 or the recent 427 special edition Z06 leapt to mind. There was also a Phantom in the booth, but quite honestly, doing something outrageous to a Roller just doesn’t offend us as badly. Take a look at the gallery and let us know if you agree. We’ve already heard from at least one other journo who happened to be winding his way down the road towards us that the 599 looks seriously racy and that we are dead wrong about it. We’ll let you decide for yourselves. Click away.

New York ‘08 Preview: Suzuki Concept Kizashi 3 planned for debut

---

At the Frankfurt Motor Show last year we met the first Suzuki Kizashi Concept, a large sport wagon proof of concept that looked like a Dodge Magnum had crashed into a box of Anime. Next we encountered the Kizashi Concept 2 at the Tokyo Motor Show, which carried forward the first concept’s design theme but applied it to a low-slung CUV body. At the New York Auto Show later this month, we’ll meet the Concept Kizashi 3, the most production feasible Kizashi concept to date and the last one in the series. Cast in the form a sport sedan, the Concept Kizashi 3 portends a future performance four-door for the Japanese brand, and we’re down with that given Suzuki hasn’t played in this space with a decent offering, like, ever. We have no other information on Suzuki’s big debut for New York, so no word on what powers it, which wheels are driven or what the interior’s like, but we’ll find out soon enough when Autoblog goes to Gotham.

New York ‘08 Preview: Nissan to unveil all-electric concept

---

All-electric vehicles are on their way, and Nissan plans to be a player with an all-electric vehicle on the market in Japan and the U.S. by 2010 for fleet customers and 2012 for everyone else. While the automaker has been testing a system that uses a lithium-ion battery pack in its boxy Cube runabout (above), it’s not known if the Cube will get the electric drive train when it goes on sale in the U.S. Regardless, Nissan plans to preview its electric intentions in two weeks at the 2008 New York Auto Show with an all-electric concept car. Details are scarce, but it’s said to have a range of 100 miles and a top speed of 75 mph. While it’s true that most people drive less than 100 miles per day, a top speed of just 75 mph seems especially limiting. Apparently passing on the freeway is not an option on this car. We’ll be on hand in New York to catch this EV concept’s debut, so stay tuned.