Mazda CX-7 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2012 Mazda CX-7 ranks 4 out of 20 Affordable Compact SUVs. This ranking is based on our analysis of 77 published reviews and test drives of the Mazda CX-7, and our analysis of reliability and safety data. Reviewers say that if you want good performance, the 2012 Mazda CX-7 delivers. But if performance isn’t a priority, reviewers say the Mazda CX-7 falls a little short, with less cargo space than competitors and tight second-row seats.

Most compact SUVs place practicality above performance, but the 2012 Mazda CX-7 takes the opposite approach, prioritizing nimble handling. Reviewers say the CX-7’s agile handling makes it easy to whip around town and its powerful turbocharged engine option makes it faster than most family SUVs.

It’s not surprising that the automotive press is so fond of one of the most well-tuned models in the class because many test drivers are drawn to vehicles that are fast and nimble. However, the performance traits that reviewers like about the CX-7 may give some shoppers pause. The CX-7’s available engines are two of the best in the class, but neither gets very good fuel economy ratings, especially when you compare them with fuel economy leaders like the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and GMC Terrain. A sporty suspension makes the CX-7 nimble, but it also gives it a stiff ride. Families or people with long commutes might prefer something with a softer suspension.

While the CX-7 is large for a compact SUV, it has a cramped second row and limited cargo space. And although the 2012 Mazda CX-7’s price is high for the class, its interior doesn’t come with standard features like Bluetooth and a USB port, which are becoming commonplace in affordable SUVs.

In terms of performance, test drivers think the 2012 Mazda CX-7 is one of the best options for families and commuters who want a compact SUV that handles more like an affordable sports car. But if traits like generous interior space, good fuel economy, a lot of standard features and a low base price are of the utmost importance, there are other crossover SUVs you’ll like better.

Other SUVs to Consider

Like the CX-7, the Chevrolet Equinox is big for a compact SUV. But unlike the CX-7, the Equinox makes better use of its interior space. The rear seats have enough space for tall adults, and even slide back to increase legroom. You can also slide the seats forward to increase cargo space. Though the Equinox isn’t as fun to drive as the CX-7, reviewers appreciate that its ride is smoother and that it has some of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class.

If an engaging drive is a must-have for your next SUV and you don’t mind paying more for it, check out the Volkswagen Tiguan. It’s the only compact SUV that can compete with the CX-7’s performance. But keep in mind that the Tiguan is much smaller, has a higher starting price and requires premium gasoline. CX-7 models equipped with the turbocharged engine also need premium gasoline.  

Details: Mazda CX-7

The 2012 Mazda CX-7 doesn’t see significant changes this year. The i SV, i Sport and i Touring trims have a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed automatic transmission. The s Touring and s Grand Touring trims have a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine that is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is only available on s models.

Porsche Macan ; made in Indonesia ??

Porsche is planning to introduce the Macan for the 2014 model year. It will be the smallest SUV built by Porsche but in some ways it will be closer to its roots than the larger models. 

Porsche, after all, is known for its sports car production. The company received a lot of criticism for widening its line with the four-door Panamera and the Cayenne SUV. But these models proved to be successful for Porsche as they broadened the customer base and even appealed to Porsche traditionalists who were seeking greater utility than the sports cars. Their success with the new models lies in their increased space, but also in the translation of the Porsche driving experience to the larger vehicles as well as their provocative design. So now comes the Macan.

The Macan will be a smaller SUV based off the Audi Q5 platform. This puts the size among the smaller of the SUVs, competitive to the Q5 but also the Volkswagen Tiguan, Range Rover Evoque, BMW X3, and Mercedes Benz GLK. Nobody will buy a small Porsche SUV for serious off-roading, so just who is the target market and how will the vehicle be used?

In the 1950’s, ‘60’s and into the ‘70s, moms with kids favored the old station wagons. Who can forget the fake contact paper “wood” on the sides of those smelly, gas-guzzling sleds? In the 1980’s and ‘90s, soccer moms moved to the ever-practical minivans pioneered first by Lee Iacocca at Chrysler. Minivans gave way to SUVs. Soccer moms loved their large Chevy Suburbans, GMC Yukon Denalis, Ford Expedition and Excursions, Cadillac Escalades, and in their most extreme form, the Hummer. And even dads liked these vehicles as they were comfortable, spacious, macho, and could handle the occasional off-road duty. But gas prices have largely killed this segment both economically and politically. So that paved the path for mid sized SUVs and crossovers. These vehicles have garnered the focus of manufacturers for their utility and relative fuel efficiency. But lately they have received more attention from automakers with more daring design and performance. People looking for more utility than sedans or sports cars but with performance and flair have flocked to this segment. The Porsche models fit into this category.

Not a lot is known about the Macan at this stage. Porsche has released a video teaser that shows active young men and women all engaged in outdoor activities, and even the obligatory soccer mom with two young boys. Expect the marketing and positioning for the vehicle to be lifestyle focused. It is doubtful that the Macan will be viewed as a serious utility vehicle. The Q5 is about eight inches shorter than the Cayenne so expect the Macan to be similarly reduced. The height likely will be three to four inches lower than the Cayenne and should sit lower to the ground. Front seats will be the focus with plentiful space and sport bolstering but the rear should be a kids-only domain with room for two and a half. Pity the half. Cargo space will be minimal with seats up but more utilitarian with seats down. But who seriously buys a Porsche to transport stuff?

The design sketches look like a raised and shortened version of the four-door Panamera. According to the sketches, the front and back ends are typically Porsche. The side views are dominated by ultra large wheels (likely to be right-sized for production), and a chopped greenhouse (likely to be raised for production). So the final design likely will look more like a baby Cayenne with a lower, shorter, and more raked profile.

Who will buy the Porsche Macan?

The target will be young people who need more than a sports car but can’t bear to move to a Ford Explorer or a Chevy Acacia and who can’t afford the Cayenne or a Range Rover. They would prefer to be driving a Cayman or Carrera but know they need space for the kids. With an expected price in the $45-50,000 range, this should limit buyers to active, wealthier 30-45 year old couples with young kids. How big is this market? Not huge, but it is a gap for Porsche and large enough to be worth spending a half a billion dollars to adapt a Q5. It’s something to look forward to.

Lamborghini Madura

The lamborghini Madura was brought to life by Slavche Tanevsky, a student at the University of Applied Sciences in Munich, Germany. The vehicle is a more eco-friendly concept car to be produced by the Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini in the year 2016. This environmentally sound vehicle, although not the first of its kind, maintains the speed and performance that Lamborghini has become known for.

The Lamborghini Madura was created in collaboration with Audi as well as Lamborghini designers for Lamborghini's Raw Materials project.^[1] The project allows students at the University of Applied Sciences^] in Munich, Germany to design a car body and propose it to the major designers at Lamborghini. Slavche Tanevski, a student at the University, proposed this body style as well as hybrid concept to the designers, and his super-car idea has become a sensation among hybrid enthusiasts around the world. Aside from proposing the idea for a hybrid super-car, Tanevski has given other contributions to the Lamborghini company such as the Lamborghini Ankonian. The Madura body design was meticulously sculpted and manages to resemble other Lamborghini vehicles as the design will invoke aggressive body lines, a sleek interior, as well as a slightly more environmentally friendly engine. The drivetrain of this vehicle is placed in the front-mid section of the body of the car allowing Tanevski to create radical rear end body lines. The car's engine, as stated by Lamborghini officials, will maintain the same basic setup as other cars and will utilize 10-12 cylinders all while keeping a high amount of horsepower, as many Lamborghini vehicles have become known for.^[2] As for the body of the car, it utilizes large, slender headlights with bulky air intakes underneath, in order to accentuate the cars width.^[3]

As some car enthusiasts may be aware of, Lamborghini has always named their vehicles in the spirit of Spanish culture such as bulls, bull fights and famous places in time. This symbolic naming system was proposed by car company creator, as well as tractor manufacturer Ferruccio Lamborghini, due to his immense love of Spanish culture as well as heritage.^[4] In the spirit of his ideas, Lamborghini continues to name their vehicles in this way and has managed to come up with the name Madura for their concept vehicle. The name Madura arose from the island Madura in Indonesia which is famous for its large scale bull races and bull fights.^[5][6]

Lambo Aventador J is King

Everyone knows Rome wasn't built in a day, but did you know the Aventador J - Lamborghini's outrageous speedster that brought Geneva to its collective knees last week - was cooked up in just six weeks?

After scooping our mandibles from the floor after Lambo whipped the covers off the roofless, screenless J, Top Gear secured an exclusive interview with designer Filippo Perini for the full story behind the lowest Lambo in history. It's fair to say he looked a little rushed. This is why...

Though the Aventador J was widely reported to have been commissioned by a well-heeled customer, Perini reveals it was devised entirely in-house by the Lamborghini team after CEO Stephan Winkelmann asked them to come up with ‘something special' for the Geneva show. As is traditional at Lamborghini, this required some fairly rapid forward progress.

Gallery: the Lamborghini Aventador J

"It was the 14th of January that Mr Winkelmann asked us to do something for Geneva," says Perini. "A blank sheet. Do what you want. I drew up this car in a weekend..."

So that's just a month and a half to bring a car from drawing board to reality: most companies would take that long to decide on the level of damping on the stereo volume knob.

The timeframe is even more astonishing when you consider that the J is far more than an Aventador with the roof and windscreen lopped off. Only the front bonnet, front fender, rear fender and headlights remain from Lambo's big V12 coupe: every other panel is new.

A huge winglet-covered diffuser lurks at the front, while the rear diffuser has grown too, and sprouted a quad of evil exhausts (imagine the noise). The Aventador coupe's slatted rear deck is gone, replaced by a pair of sleek humps and a delicate carbon-fibre crossbrace over the engine. And just look at that ‘periscope' rear-view mirror.

Six weeks. And don't forget this is no concept: the J is road-legal, homologated in Italy (we're not sure how the single-car homologation procedure works in Italy, but we'd imagine it goes something along the lines of, "Yeah, it's a massive red Lamborghini with no roof. Any problems? No? Great...").

Even before its Geneva unveiling, the one-off J had already been sold, to an anonymous but presumably not-very-poor Lamborghini enthusiast.

"Mr Winkelmann knows our best customers personally," says Perini. "One of the first ones we presented the project to was interested. In a minute he had sent the money."

Well, what self-respecting businessman doesn't have £1.75m (plus taxes) sitting idly in his current account? And has our supercar value scale got a bit skewed recently, or does that not sound like such a ridiculous price for Lamborghini's most extreme one-off since 1970's Jota?

The common ‘J' is no coincidence. Though Lamborghini claims the Aventador J's suffix refers to the FIA's ‘Appendix J' regulations, the rulebook governing technical specifications of sports cars and their homologation requirements, this is a lie. It's short for Jota, the Miura-based racer that remains, even today, Lambo's most extreme, iconic creation.

"I have always wanted to do something with the ‘Jota' name," Perini says. "Inspiration comes from the past, and the Jota is the true heritage of our company."

A worthy successor? A snip at one-point-seven-five-million-plus-taxes? Or simply the most depraved piece of automotive smut this decade? For the full story behind the Aventador J - and a photoshoot we guarantee will make you feel a bit funny-in-a-good-way - make sure you pick up the April issue of Top Gear magazine, on sale 29 March...

New Honda Pilot ..............$28,470 - $40,820

The 2012 Honda Pilot is a competent offering in the crossover segment, but that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement. So for 2012, Honda has made some minor changes to the Pilot both inside and out. The Pilot also now delivers the highest EPA fuel economy available in a three-row, eight-passenger vehicle. Front-wheel-drive Pilots achieve 25 mpg on the highway, 2 mpg more than the previous model thanks mainly to improved aerodynamics and slight updates to the Pilot's 3.5-liter V-6 and five-speed automatic powertrain. The biggest exterior change to the new Pilot is an updated front end that lends it a more luxurious look. All Pilots receive a more refined interior, plus more tech and entertainment goodies. Previously exclusive to the Pilot EX-L with Navigation and above models, the EX now comes standard with audio system upgrades, including a 2 GB CD-Library and Bluetooth audio streaming. For 2012, EX-L models come with Honda's new intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) that includes backup camera display, while EX-L models with navigation receive an upgraded nav system with higher resolution and a 60 GB hard drive complete with XM real-time traffic updates. Cargo capacity is one of the Pilot's strong suits, with plenty of storage options and impressive interior volume. As has been the case since launch, all Pilot trim levels are offered in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration.

Read more: http://www.motortrend.com/cars/2012/honda/pilot/#ixzz1pFYtILjB

Land Rover Defender Station Wagon

EXTERIOR FEATURES

Fitness for purpose defines the Defender's body. Short front and rear overhangs and high sills provide optimum clearances off road, whilst the flat, vertical sides maximise visibility and the ability to manoeuvre the vehicle in tight situations. A combination of high strength steel and light-weight aluminium keep weight down to maximise economy and corrosion resistance.

2.2 litre 4 cylinder diesel engine

Defender’s new 2.2 litre Diesel engine produces an impressive 360Nm of torque. With 90 percent of peak power constantly on tap from as low as 2,200rpm to over 4,350rpm, it provides maximum muscle for tough working environments.

With the introduction of Land Rover’s new Diesel Particulate Filter, not only is the new Defender engine fully compliant with the latest N1 EU5 emissions legislation, it now delivers an historic new top speed of 90mph. The engine is designed to meet modern emissions legislation and features an Anti-Stall device, which intelligently adjusts the fuel required when the engine is working at low speed.

SAFETY AND SECURITY

For maximum control both on and off-road, certain models of Defender are available with 4-channel anti-lock brakes (ABS) and Electronic Traction Control (ETC). Detecting any significant difference between wheel speeds during braking or accelerating, this optional system helps maintain control by automatically reducing or applying brake force to the appropriate wheel.

Land Rover Defender Profesional

With more than 60 years experience building dependable, capable and hard working vehicles to meet the exacting demands of commercial fleet customers the world over, Land Rover Professional Vehicles continue to lead the way. Based on the highly acclaimed and hugely versatile Defender 90, 110 and 130 vehicle platforms, Land Rover Professional Vehicles are able to deliver solutions for the most demanding of commercial customer applications. When your business depends on reaching inaccessible locations, operating in the most inclement conditions or conquering challenging terrains as part of your daily operations, there simply is no substitute

 
Land Rover Professional Vehicles combine the considerable capability and durability strengths of the world renowned Defender with the versatility to meet a customers specific usage needs. Whether from the Professional Vehicles range or based on a customer’s unique vision for a specific vehicle use, there is a Defender Professional Vehicle to meet your needs and to serve your business well.

 - Tried and trusted capability and durability with a powerful, efficient 2.4 Litre diesel engine
 - Versatile 90,110 and 130 wheelbase vehicle platform capable of supporting a wide variety of needs
 - Standard and Heavy Duty Suspension variants
 - Class leading towing and all terrain capability
 - A range of Professional Vehicles from which to choose as well as bespoke build capability
 - Experienced team of engineers and vehicle conversion specialists
 - Land Rover Warranty and Aftersales support
 - Solutions engineered to meet customers specific legislative or specific test criteria
 - Commonality of vehicle components across a multi-purpose Defender fleet offers efficiency in parts procurement, maintenance, training and greater vehicle familiarity
 Land Rover Experience training to meet busines

Ford Explorer Best-in-class combination of V6 horsepower and fuel economy.8

Fully capable to handle whatever you throw at it

The 2013 Ford Explorer is incredibly capable. It starts with the structure – strong and supportive, thanks to high-tech materials and advanced forming

technology. 

 To help you handle everything from rugged off-roading to snow-covered roadways, there’s the available Intelligent 4WD with Terrain Management System.™ For your peace of mind, Curve Control, an enhancement to AdvanceTrac^® with Roll Stability Control,™ delivers enhanced control in turns. Open the door. The Explorer offers up to seven-passenger seating capacity and seats that fold down for cargo space on demand – up to 80.7 cubic feet of space. You expect capability in an SUV. Explorer delivers it.

  

An impressive performance

The 2013 Explorer offers the available 2.0L I-4 EcoBoost^® engine, delivering 240 horsepower and 270 lb.-ft. of torque across a wide 1,750–4,000 rpm range. The standard 3.5L V6 engine features the best-in-class combination of V6 horsepower and fuel economy* (unsurpassed 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft. of torque). With all that power and torque, Explorer can tow up to 5,000 lbs. when properly equipped.** An impressive performance indeed.

  

The smartest Explorer ever. 

The 2013 Explorer features some incredibly innovative and smart features. For example, there are lane-departure warning and lane-keep assist to help keep you in control. Explorer features the world’s first automotive production inflatable rear safety belts that spread crash forces over more areas of the body compared to conventional safety belts. Available adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support scans traffic ahead of you, providing an alert and precharging the brakes if it senses a collision with the vehicle in front of you. AdvanceTrac^® with Roll Stability Control™ features Curve Control to help provide even more control. There are even available headlamps that automatically change modes, going from low beam to high beam to provide enhanced illumination when you need it. In the 2013 Explorer, smart features help provide you with peace of mind.

Groundbreaking technology that lets you do more.

The technology can make your driving experience much more convenient. Take, for example, available SYNC^® with MyFord Touch^{® 27} – the easy-to-use in-car connectivity system. With simple voice commands, you can make phone calls, choose music, control your climate and more without taking your eyes off the road. Another feature, the available voice-activated Navigation System with integrated SiriusXM Traffic and SiriusXM Travel Link³⁴, provides weather forecasts, traffic updates, fuel prices – even movie times. Yes, there's much more to the Ford Explorer than outstanding performance and flexibility.

Gurkha LAPV ; The Armored Vehicles With Excellent Protection

The Gurkha LAPV is armored vehicles wich has a typical SUV configuration of 4 side doors and a single rear cargo-crew exit door and carries a total crew complement of up to eight persons. Gurkha LAPV is Mounted on the Ford F550 chassis, repair and spare parts are available throughout the worldwide Ford Motor Company. The Gurkha LAPV is armored to the NATO STANAG 4569 level 3 which exceeds the CEN European B7 armor level provides excellent protection. The estimated price for Gurkha LAPV is around $489.000.

With its hollow cavity walls filled with blast protective materials, the side armor, the Gurkha LAPV provides excellent protection against side load IEDs. In addition to its frontal armor, the firewall is a second armored wall that further protects the driver and front passenger from a frontal attack. The floor is protected from blast and even with this advance armored protection, the payload after armoring is still in excess of 2,041kg (4,500lbs).

JAGUAR LAUNCHES XJ SENTINEL ; "THE ULTIMATE ARMOURED LUXURY SPORTS SALOON"

“The XJ Sentinel was designed and developed in partnership with industry leaders, and incorporates the very latest armoured vehicle systems to deliver extremely impressive levels of protection, while maintaining a very discreet appearance,” said Mike O’Driscoll, Managing Director, Jaguar Cars.

“The XJ Sentinel is the ultimate armoured luxury limousine. It offers governments, security organisations and private individuals, the highest level of security, with advanced design, refined performance and a beautifully-crafted cabin. The XJ Sentinel will be the vehicle of choice for the most discerning," he added.

COMPREHENSIVE ARMOURING SYSTEM

The XJ Sentinel is equipped with a purpose-built armouring system which has been specially developed to ensure that the vehicle offers outstanding occupant protection, while being almost impossible to detect from outside the car.

Constructed from specialised high strength steels with Kevlar backing, the armoured inner cell was engineered in partnership with Centigon, a leading global specialist in vehicle armouring.  The XJ Sentinel offers ballistic protection up to B7 level (BS EN 1522 level FB7 and BS EN 1063 BR7-), blast protection against 15kg TNT equivalent detonated within close proximity of the vehicle, and substantial under floor grenade protection.

To ensure that the armouring meets the latest national and international standards, the protection offered was certified by QinetiQ, a globally recognised independent blast and ballistic testing organisation.

ENGINEERED WITHOUT COMPRIMISE

Just like the other models in the highly-acclaimed XJ range, the Sentinel has been engineered without compromise to deliver sophisticated performance, peerless vehicle dynamics and reassuring levels of active and passive safety.

The Sentinel is based on the long wheelbase XJ saloon powered by the refined and responsive 5.0-litre 385PS AJ-V8 Gen III naturally aspirated direct-injection V8 petrol engine, which is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission.

This powerful and sophisticated powertrain ensures that the XJ Sentinel is capable of swift and agile performance, accelerating from 0-100 km/h in 9.7 seconds (0-60mph in 9.4 seconds), and achieving a top speed of 195km/h (121 mph).

The Sentinel’s chassis, which features the advanced Adaptive Dynamics system with continuously variable dampers, has been comprehensively uprated to cope with its increased body weight.  Jaguar’s dynamics specialists have tuned the suspension and steering to ensure that the armoured model offers the same qualities of poise and agility found in the standard XJ.

Impressive stopping power is provided by a new high performance braking system which has been sourced from the formidable 510PS Supercharged non-armoured XJ model, while active safety is further improved by the XJ’s full array of advanced traction and stability systems.

To enhance passive safety, the Sentinel retains full functionality of the standard XJ restraint system, including dual-stage driver and front passenger airbags, side thorax airbags and side curtain airbags.

TOTAL LUXURY AND REAL-WORLD USABILITY

The comprehensive occupant protection offered by the XJ Sentinel has not been achieved at the expense of comfort or practicality.  Jaguar engineers have ensured that the armoured model retains the supreme luxury and real-world usability which are core features of the standard car.

The design of the armoured inner cell has been optimised to maintain the extremely spacious interior package of the long wheelbase XJ, which provides rear seat passengers with a full metre of legroom.

With its elegant and contemporary style, the cabin surrounds occupants with beautifully-crafted leather and veneer surfaces, creating a supremely relaxing, comfortable and luxurious environment.

A generous 500kg payload – maximised by the XJ’s lightweight aluminium body structure – means that the Sentinel is comfortably able to accommodate four occupants along with their luggage and additional security equipment.

This day-to-day practicality provides government organisations, security forces, businesses or high net worth individuals with a discreet yet highly desirable form of armoured transportation.

COMPLETE SUPPORT PACKAGE

XJ Sentinel customers benefit from a comprehensive support programme, both before and after purchase.

A dedicated security consultant works closely with the customer during the sales process, to ensure their full requirements are met.  A wide range of specialised optional security and vehicle features are available and can be tailored to meet individual requirements.

Once the vehicle is in service, the customer has access to a full support package including driver training and on-site servicing from dedicated specialists when required.

The XJ Sentinel has been carefully developed to allow regular servicing and repair to be carried out at Jaguar dealers, using standard diagnostic equipment, and is covered by a full three-year 50,000 mile factory warranty.

Knight XV Luxury SUV Of The Apocalypse

Conquest Vehicles are not widely known, but this Canadian company surely makes ultra-luxurious, fully-armoured SUVs. Okay, we can’t really use the plural version. So far, they have only made one; the Conquest Knight XV, but Conquest lives up to their mission on this vehicle.

The Conquest Knight XV doesn’t qualify as an everyday kind of ride, but for professional athletes, government officials, and heads of corporations around the globe, it should fit perfectly amongst their stable of high-priced vehicles. This extravagantly large and armored vehicle was first unveiled at the 2008 SEMA Show and since then, has had an abundant amount of comfort and security features added to it.

The vehicle is the picture of insanity and utter viciousness. We would just like to say that it would be an awesome choice for the next Decepticon in any upcoming Transformers if the production could afford it. It looks ready for the job already.

For the 2012 model, the Knight XV has been designed using only the most expensive and highest quality armoring materials on the planet. Nothing - and we mean nothing - about this all-utility ride is weak.

Beginning with the exterior, the 2012 Knight Conquest XV features many of the same design elements as the last model except that this one is wider and a little longer. Among the few changes done on the vehicle include a redesigned and more aggressive front end, a new hood, a new grille, and matching headlights and taillights.

What makes the Knight XV the ultimate in all-utility luxury are the optional packages that it comes in. For the 2012 model, there are plenty heaps of it, including a Luxury Group Package and a Security Package.

For the former, the add-ons feature electrostatic tinting (rear windows, sunroofs, partition), rear power windows, retractable ballistic glass partition, retractable flat screen television, siren, 2-way PA system with loud speaker, hidden front VIP strobes lights, forward and backup sensors and an external intercom communication system, Playstation3 or Xbox entertainment system, a VIP package inclusion of decanter bar, cooler box, and a cigar humidor.

Meanwhile, the latter offers less premium upgrades but has more than enough security features to rival a Las Vegas casino. As part of the Security Package, you’ll receive cool trinkets like an under vehicle explosive protection system and magnetic attachment detector, an opaque floor armor protection, a Black box, a security safe, a fire extinguisher, exterior surveillance camera system, positive pressure defense system against gas attacks, and an oxygen survival kit.

The last Knight XV to hit the market came with a price tag of $489,000, which is, believe it or not, comparatively cheaper than the 2012 model. Thanks to a lot of the added upgrades in the last model that have been turned into standard features, the 2012 Knight XV now commands a king’s ransom worth $629,000.

It’s hard to find a suitable comp for the Knight XV because there aren’t a lot of vehicles on the planet that offers all the things it can give, including the price tag.

Hummer has long been discontinued and even the most tricked out versions of those machines still pales in comparison to what you get with the Knight XV.

If we were reaching, though, you could make a case that where the Knight XV has in interior amenities, Paramount Group’s Marauder more than makes up for in sheer intimidation alone.

Russian Kombat T98 armored SUV is more of a luxurious tank

The Dartz Kombat T98 SUV from Russia looks like a cross between a Hummer and a tank, and that connection apparently shows up in the name as well (T9 tanks). The SUV comes with steel plated doors and 3-inch windows, and enough armor to keep the passengers protected from attacks, ranging from bullets from an AK 47 to rocket propelled grenades.

The Dartz T-98 has been noted as one of the fastest multiterrain armored vehicles in the world, boasting an 8.1-liter engine and made with parts courtesy of General Motors. The Hummer H1 is often considered to be the most desirable of the Humvee makes, being the first of the now famous line introduced by AM General and also valued for its (relatively) efficient gas mileage. Coincidentally, the Hummer brand is also associated with GM, which had to part with the line as part of its bankruptcy settlement. So how much do they have in common versus how much they don't have in common? Well, I'll let you be the judge, as this video puts both vehicle types to the test in various environments including highways, sand dunes, forests, and snow. Enjoy. Or not. It's no big deal, right?

Mercedes Benz S600 Guard hits the roads Now

The final variation of the new S-class has been announced with news that Mercedes has developed an armoured special-protection model. Labelled the Mercedes Benz S600 Guard the new car has had its protective elements fully integrated into the vehicle direct from the Sindelfingen plant in Germany. Currently, it only comes in long-wheelbase form with the same V12 as shared with the regular sedan. The S600 Guard develops 517hp (380kw) thanks to the biturbo V12 and rides as comfortably as the standard-production S-Class despite the addition of heavy reinforcements. Some of the attacks the vehicle is capable of withstanding include armour resisting military-standard small-arms projectiles, hand grenade fragments other explosive charges. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system.

Along with the military grade additions, the S600 Guard still features most of the technical innovations from the already safe Mercedes S-Class. These include the latest braking assistance and brake force distribution features as well as night vision. The car of choice for up-and-coming dictators of small African countries just got better.

Mercedes-Benz has completed the new S-Class range by introducing an armoured special-protection model. Thanks to its factory-integrated protective features, the new S-Guard provides a unique level of protection against attacks and threats posed by violent crime. The new model is initially available in Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard guise, with a twelve-cylinder engine and a long wheelbase.

The new Mercedes-Benz S-Guard is the logical continuation of an almost 80-year unbroken tradition in the development of special-protection vehicles. This new top-of-the-range Guard model is produced in Sindelfingen, Germany by vastly experienced specialists working on the principle of integrated special protection. In effect this means that, rather than retrofitting the protective elements in the doors, rear wall, side panels, roof lining and firewall etc. of an already finished vehicle, they fully integrate them into the bodyshell on a dedicated production line. All the body-structure reinforcements required due to the extra weight of the protective elements can therefore be incorporated right from the start. The resulting vehicles offer hallmark Mercedes-Benz build quality combined with comprehensive Highest Protection, including in those areas where post-production access would be all but impossible.

Outstanding comfort and effortlessly superior performance

The S-Class interior space concept, which makes for a first-class ambience combined with outstanding ride comfort for all the occupants, not to mention effortlessly superior handling, remains virtually unaffected. Furthermore, generously dimensioned chassis components and twin-calliper front brakes lend the Mercedes-Benz S-Guard Saloon hallmark Mercedes handling qualities and provide the driver with an optimal driving feel at all times. Plus the chassis has been configured so as not to impair the sumptuous level of comfort that distinguishes the standard-production S-Class. At the heart of the Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is a twelve-cylinder biturbo engine developing 380 kW/517 hp, whose scintillating performance capability allows the luxury saloon to escape from dangerous situations with breathtaking speed.

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard offers Highest Protection and has been engineered to resistance level B6/B7, as tested and certified by state-approved organisations. Its armour resists military-standard small-arms projectiles and provides protection against fragments from hand grenades and other explosive charges. Additional safety features include run-flat tyres, a self-sealing fuel tank and a fire-extinguishing system.

Yet the Highest Protection that underpins the new Guard Saloon is scarcely noticeable from the outside. After all, discretion is as much of a must as trust, reliability and quality. Prominent personalities in particular like to travel incognito, wherever they happen to be, and the new Mercedes-Benz S-Guard gives them this option.

All the trailblazing developments of the new S-Class

The Mercedes-Benz S 600 Guard is equipped with the same technical innovations that have made the flagship Mercedes S-Class the number-one trailblazer in passenger car development and the world's best-selling luxury saloon. These include important new developments such as Brake Assist PLUS and the PRE SAFE® brake in combination with DISTRONIC PLUS, night view assist and the enhanced PRE-SAFE® anticipatory occupant protection system. On top of all this, the outstanding level of interior comfort and extremely agile handling make for an effortlessly superior driving experience.

Kia K9 2013 SUV Debuts In Korea

Kia has unveiled its new K9 flagship sedan, which goes on sale Korea in the first half of the year. Kia has also confirmed that the K9 will be sold outside of its domestic market, though the name and exact timings for overseas launches won’t be revealed until later this year.

Previously referred to as the KH, the new model is Kia’s first rear-wheel drive sedan and it’s set to serve as the automaker’s flagship.

Kia boasts that the K9 exemplifies the “best of the best” design, driving performance and high technology capabilities.

The styling draws its inspiration from the theme “distinctive, modern and classic,” which as it turns out includes LED headlights, bold character lines, and a purposeful stance. According to Kia, the K9’s profile was a key focus for the design team. It features a simple side character line to give a feeling of spaciousness while emphasizing the new model’s boldness.

While the K9 name may seem odd, it continues Kia’s naming practice for models, such as the existing K5 and K7, sold in its domestic market. The letter “K” represents not only Kia and Korea, but also refers to the Greek word “Kratos” (meaning powerful, domination and reign) and the English word “Kinetic” (meaning active, dynamic).

Kia hasn’t gone into details about its K9’s mechanical package but beneath the sheet metal is the same rear-wheel drive platform from the Hyundai Equus luxury sedan, not the smaller Genesis as previously predicted. This means the K9 is likely to come with a V-8 engine matched to an eight-speed, or possibly even a 10-speed, automatic transmission.

A starting price below the $58,750 sticker of the Equus in the U.S. would also be likely, that is, if the K9 ever does arrive. But considering the following statement from Soon-Nam Lee, Kia’s overseas marketing chief, “This all-new rear-wheel drive large sedan will definitely become the leading model of our lineup around the world, showcasing the best of the best of Kia,” it certainly would be strange if it didn’t. 

Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept Spotted In Streets Of London

The Range Rover Evoque Convertible Concept is set to make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show on March 6th, but an English car spotter spied the concept yesterday morning in London near the Tower Bridge.

One thing is certain from these pictures, the topless Rover doesn't look any less strange in the real world than it does in the pictures we've seen ahead of the official unveil.

We guess taking the concept out in public ahead of its debut makes some sense considering the company plans to make a final decision on whether the Evoque Convertible will be put into production after judging people's reaction to the concept.

Jeep Wrangler Mountain Edition

There are no shortages of concept cars and special edition models that are scheduled to be introduced at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show.

One particular model that’s been penciled in to make its debut at Geneva is the Jeep Wrangler Mountain Edition, a special edition 4WD all-utility ride that boasts of a paint finish called "Geecko" and carries a massive V6 under its hood.

Built as a special edition model that definitely caters to a specific kind of market, the Wrangler Mountain Edition features other unique styling cues, including a black decal on the hood, a Mineral Gray front grille, and a choice of other paint finishes. Heck, if "Geecko" doesn’t suit your style, you can opt for more conservative hues like Back, Bright White, Dozer - we actually don’t know what Dozer is - and Black Forrest Green. The Wrangler Mountain Edition also sits on a new set of 17" high-gloss Mineral Gray wheels while also having fabric seats on the interior with Slate Grey stitching and an embroidered ’Mountain logo’.

Under its hood, the Wrangler Mountain Edition comes with a choice of different powertrains, highlighted by a 3.6-liter V6 Pentastar engine that produces 284 horsepower and 256 lb/ft of torque mated to a five-speed automatic transmission. For a more efficient option, the Wrangler Mountain Edition also gets a 2.8-liter turbo diesel engine that produces 200 horsepower and 340 lb/ft of torque mated to the same transmission system.