This year, Ford is going to haul its Mustang name by coming up with a 2008 edition of the Ford Mustang Bullitt. The said vehicle is of course, nostalgic of the movie “Bullitt” that is starred by Steve McQueen. In the said movie, McQueen who takes on the role of Bullitt has a remarkable car chase scene as he rides a 1968 Ford Mustang GT 390 Fastback, which he uses to chase two hit men on their 1968 Dodge Charger R/T 440 Magnum. In fact, in honor of the movie, Ford produced a limited edition of the 2001 Ford Mustang GT that was tagged as the “Bullitt Mustang.” The vehicle mimicked the Bullitt movie a lot and it can even reproduce its exhaust note.

Under the hood of the 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt, one can find a V-8 engine. The V-8 is the standard engine of the Mustang GT. Apart from the V-8, the latest edition of the Ford Mustang comes with an open air intake. This is what makes the 2008 Ford Mustang Bullitt unique for this is geared with the first open air intake that Ford was able to produce. Apart from this, it has a specially tuned exhaust, which allows for cleaner emissions. As for the vehicle’s suspension system, it was tweaked in a lot of ways and was geared with aggressive Ford shocks and struts. These are believed to give its would-be users with a comfortable ride even on bumpy roads. Since there is not much one can do about road bumps as well as other irregularities of roads, it is best to avail of good shocks at Bilstein shocks and have the ride that one have always wanted.

For last year, Toyota was only able to sell 3376 units of the Land Cruiser. Although this is the case, no one can contest that the Land Cruiser is the Toyota model that was able to sell most since the Japanese maker started selling their vehicles in America in 1958. It is not surprising then that Toyota will be introducing another generation of the Land Cruiser. And it will do so as part of the company’s 50^th year in existence in the United States. Changes in the 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser includes a hauling of its 4.7 liter engine to a Tundra 5.7 liter V8. This gives the Land Cruiser more power with an additional 116 hp and 73 lb-ft in torque. This power gives the new Land Cruiser more ability to easily manage its 5690 pound curb weight. As for its output, it can generate as much as 381 hp and 401 lb-ft.

All these features are supposed to make the Land Cruiser all the more lovable to the American market. Apart from these, the big Land Cruiser ute even gets bigger. For the latest model, it gains 265 pounds and 2.4 inches more when it comes to length and a 1.2 inches add-on its width. As for the torsion bar type front suspension system that used to be found on 2007 models of the Land Cruiser, it gets replaced with a double A-arm setup that are equipped with coil over Toyota shocks that are available at Bilstein shocks. This unique combination of the ’08 Land Cruiser’s suspension system increases the wheel travel to around 9.05 inches. This is an inch higher than the previous ones. As for the rear suspension, it basically stays the same. It has a four-link solid axle that is geared with coil springs as well as Panhard-bar setup. This setup is especially engineered in order to handle a considerable increase in power from the engine.

As for the ride on-road, Toyota estimates that 99 percent of Cruisers in the Unites States are to spend 99 percent of their time close to perfection. This is because the Cruiser has a big body frame that hardly glides over the pavement. The ’08 edition is relatively quiet. When inside the cabin, one can rarely hear any noise from the outside, which makes it perfect for anyone who wants to have comfort in his or her driving

Having good control of one’s ride is one of the things that many auto users are keen of. When it comes to ride control, the vehicle’s suspension system is the one that does most of the works. The suspension system includes the struts and the shock absorber, which can be availed of at Bilstein shocks. In the past years, many have been doing what they can in order to develop the suspension system. This is because the suspension is simply one of the most important systems that comprise one’s vehicle. Research has been going around finding ways on how to improve on the damper rate. The goal is to make it vary according to road conditions. Recently, word has it that Matthew Beecham is on the latest designs made.

If we take it literally, there is something not quite right about the term “shock absorber.” For one, the device simply does not do that. It does not absorb the “shock.” What it does is to “dampen” the movement of the springs (coil, torsion bar, or whatever it is that needs dampening). It works to limit the road shock that gets transmitted to the tires, hub, and the spring mount. On the other hand, the task of the “damper” is to control the oscillations of the springs. When these are properly taken care of, the tires are able to keep a good contact with the road. This leads to a more comfortable ride, a reliable braking system, smooth acceleration, and good vehicle handling.

In our time, certain advances when it comes to shock absorbers are already in existence. If one wants to enhance the ride comfort one gets without having to shell out a lot of money, manufacturers are coming up with a longer shock absorber movement. Another thing that the manufacturers do is to put together electronics. The advantage of electronic dampers is that it allows for a large range of damping levels and can easily alter its functions in order to provide a comfortable ride and a definite control of the vehicle. By means of incorporating mechanical as well as electronic functions in the vehicle, manufacturers were able to enhance the suspension system with considerable reduction in the costs of making one.

Among the automakers that feature such technology are Delphi and Tenneco. Some Volvo shocks, Mercedes shocks, Ford shocks, and Audi shocks also offer this technology.

Heico Sportiv has become the leading tuning firm of Volvo. It was founded in 1995 and since then proved its way to being the tuning firm with the longest history when it comes to tuning racking Volvo vehicles. It has done so for over 13 years already. At the 2007 SEMA Show, the Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv debuted. This modified version of the C30 is able to leave a good impression on those who have seen it. What people find fascinating about the Volvo C30 is that it can be liken to a blank canvas. It really gave way for Heico Sportiv to do wonders with the vehicle. Designers of Heico Sportiv altered the solid white flanks of the vehicle’s exterior and turned it into radiant orange surf-pattern kit. Its dazzling orange wave stems from the lower front fenders. It then cunningly soars to the doors, to the tailgate’s edges until it enfolds the rear end part.

The Volvo C30 by Heico Sportiv got its inspiration from the well-toned surfers. These surfers that inspired the creation of the Heico Sportiv Volvo C30 constantly find themselves on the beach, spending innumerable hours riding the waves. For this reason, the Heico C30 has a rather developed bodywork that is both athletic and muscular in its air and appearance. It has widened fender flares, it has painted lower side skirts that matches perfectly with the body. This gives the Heico C30 an illusion of seamlessness. As for its front, it features integrated spoiler flaps, fog as well as cornering lights, three large air ducks, sports grill that is adorned with a Volvo iron mark. Apart from these the Heico C30 also features wider and deeper rear skirt frames and also, stainless steel exhaust pipes.

Looks are not all there is to the Heico C30. In order for a vehicle to be truly modified, its performance has to take on some alterations as well. Its 19-inch light alloy Volution(R) V Titan wheels are wrapped with 235/35R19 Continental Sport Contact III tires. The brake system also went through some hauling. 326 x 30 mm discs of sport brake pads can be found on the C30.

Aside from the brake system, the Heico C30’s suspension system is geared up for performance. Volvo shocks and springs that lowers the C30 by around 40mm. The Volvo shocks are known to provide quality smooth rides even on bumpy roads. For those who won’t be able to avail of the Heico C30, the next best thing is to equip ones ride with good shocks from Bilstein shocks.

Suzuki has a sports-minded heritage. This heritage topped with a goal to excel and be one of the world’s most capable automaker, Suzuki Auto yet again enters a motorsports challenge. For this year, Suzuki has an entry in the World Rally Championship (WRC). The vehicle they entered is the SX4 WRC. The vehicle is said to be pattered from the five-door SX4 Crossover and was first introduced in the Geneva Motor Show last February 2006. The people behind Suzuki developed this vehicle to be driver-friendly. It is a World Rally Car that features superb controllability even when subjected to different range of rally conditions. A creation of Suzuki Sport, which is Suzuki’s motorsports division, one can expect only the best from the SX4 WRC.

The vehicle has undergone various extensive testing programs in different road conditions and driving surfaces. In order to bring the tests for this vehicle a notch higher, Suzuki Sport entered the vehicle to two events that both occurred this year. These are the Rallye de France as well as the Wales Rally GB. These two events are said to add on the surface types on which the SX4 WRC will be tested. The former has a reputation for being one of the most challenging when it comes to tarmac events. The latter, has a varied array of surface types that will sure to test the SX4 WRC’s capacity. The SX4 WRC features a 2.0 liter turbocharged J20 engine, a full-time 4WD drivetrain as well as a five-speed sequential gearbox. Its 1,997 cc engine has the capacity to deliver 320 brake horsepower involving 4,000 and 4,500 rpm. As for its maximum torque, it can go up to 590 N-m at 3,500 rpm.

As for the powertrain, the SX4 WRC boasts of a carbon three-disc clutch, which has an electronically controlled center differential topped with a mechanical differential for both the front and rear portion. It has a balanced chassis with a rigid structure that makes way for the front and rear MacPherson struts to function at their finest. It has Reiger shocks rather than Suzuki shocks that delivers dynamic vehicle handling. For more information on shocks, visit the Bilstein shocks website.

When it comes to having the most capable lineup of GMC Sierra vehicles, the 2008 is definitely it. As for the ‘08 lineup, Sierra vehicles feature good fuel economy topped with fine power and superb capability. Apart from these, the 2008 GMC Sierra lineup also features supple rides as well as good handling. For those who are after quiet rides, the Sierra 1500 might be the perfect vehicle for you. The said vehicle is exceptionally quiet. Even though it doesn’t create so much noise, the Sierra 1500 is a rather powerful vehicle. It is available in various trim packages that include Work Truck, SL, SLE, and the SLT that comes in configurations of 2WD and 4WD. Buyers can choose from three cab styles namely regular, extended, and crew cab. There are three cargo box sizes, 5 ft 8 inches, 6ft 6 inches and 8ft.

Another part of the lineup is the Sierra Denali. It is truck that is designed to incorporate performance and luxury. Yes, luxury for a truck. Who says one has to be dirty and not have a comfortable ride when riding a truck? It is unique and distinct in its characteristics. Among its features include a 6.2L V8 engine that is made from aluminum, it has variable valve timing as well as a six-speed automatic transmission. Since the Sierra was all geared up for this year, changes for 2008 edition are relatively minor. Mostly, the style is the most focused upon when it comes to improvements. This also includes accessories. Among those that come as a standard for the 2008 line-up is the XM Satellite Radio. Power-adjustable driver’s seat come as an option and buyers can choose from two new colors: the dark crimson metallic and the Sonoma red metallic.

As for light-duty models, their 2008 line-up also features integrated trailer brake controller. Also integrated in these models is the ABS system. The system makes it possible for immediate brake force signaling to be transported to electric-controlled trailer brake systems. No requirement for external or other aftermarket brake control systems is needed. For vehicles that are part of the 2008 line-up, the brake controller switch is mounted on the instrument panel’s lower-left section.

To further improve on the line-ups refinement, off road packages comes as an option. Apart from these, special GMC shocks are installed on the line-up that can be availed of at Bilstein shocks.

Chevrolet has come up with a 2008 model for its Chevrolet Silverado. The latest model features revisions as well as improvements that will further make the Chevy Silverado closer to the hearts of those that are already endeared to it. Among the many Chevrolet trucks, it is the Silverado that is considered to be its strongest. It has the power side by side with good fuel economy. And as the price of fuel continuous to be erratic, having a truck as such is a big thing. Normally, big vehicles such as truck require a lot of fuel to run. But when it comes to the Chevy Silverado, this is definitely not the case.

Among the awards that the latest Silverado is able to bag since it was introduced are the 2007 Motor Trend’s Truck of the Year Award, the Pickup category winner of the Car and Driver’s 2007 Five Best Trucks evaluation, and the 2007 North American Truck of the Year. According to Ed Peper, the general manager of Chevrolet “[t]he redesigned Silverado is a winner in all respects. Its combination of style, capability and refinement make it the segment benchmark and we’re working all the time to make it even better.”

For the 2008 Chevy Silverado, there are three cab styles to choose from. These are the regular, extended, and the crew cab. As for the cargo box lengths, it comes in 5 foot 8 inches (for the short), 6 foot 6 inches (for the standard), and 8 foot (for the long). Interested buyers of the 2008 Chevrolet Silverado can choose from four trim levels: the WT, LS, LT, and LTZ. These are all available in 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive. The Silverado’s suspension system delivers for smooth and solid rides. It is comprised of Chevrolet shocks and springs. More information on Chevy shocks can be read at the Bilstein shocks website.

Driving the Dodge Avenger is one of the things that can make one feel like Kasey Kahne, one of the most respected drivers of the Nextel Cup race. The Dodge Avenger has already come a long way. It was first introduced in 1995 and after that, several models of the vehicle came out with three to five years interval. The said vehicle has a 2008 model. I was not at all surprised when Dodge decided to release a 2008 model the Dodge Avenger for I see a lot of former models of the Avenger running on the highways. Just the best way to prove that many are still into the Dodge Avenger.

The 2008 Dodge Avenger comes in two trim levels. These are the SXT and the SE, which come as a standard for 2.4 liter, 173 horsepower engine that can produce up to 166 lb of torque. For those who would want more of that, they can have their 2008 Dodge Avenger upgraded. For the SXT, one can upgrade the engine to a 2.7 liter 200 horsepower. The good news is, Dodge has plans to sell this model worldwide. One has only to wait for the time the said vehicle will be made available in the country they are in.

However, when it comes to the standard safety features of the 2008 Dodge Avenger, one may notice that it is not that geared up anymore. The side curtain bags (the ones for both rows) and side impact airbags (the ones for the front passengers) are standard. However, the electronic stability and traction control systems are optional. As for its audio package, the AM and FM radio is basic, there is a CD player as well as a MP3 jack. Apart from this, 2008 Dodge Avenger owners have an option to upgrade their audio with the Chrysler “MyGig” system. This feature fundamentally makes the Avenger a vehicle that is also a flash drive that allows for storage of 20 GB worth of voice messages, music and images.

It has stiffer Dodge shocks and springs in order to cancel out the vehicle shakes when driving on bumpy roads. For more information on shocks, visit the Bilstein shocks website.

Honda has introduced its new car tagged as the 2008 Honda Element. Unlike other Honda vehicles that came before it, the 2008 Honda Element has exceptional beauty. What makes it even more beautiful is that it is really functional. In other words, its design is not just there for the sake of style. It has a purpose. According to reviews of the said vehicle, its design is useful topped with character. Hence, the Honda Element is designed for the modern day people, those who are always on the go and values style but is after functionality as well. This car is beautiful but there is more to its aesthetic qualities.

The Honda Element is a vehicle that values simplicity. It is not that expensive either. It has the space that can provide for one’s comfortable rides as well as an interior that is quite easy to clean. Those who have an active lifestyle may most probably like the Honda Element for it doesn’t come hard on the budget and it has the space that can accommodate the things they need to haul around as they go about their busy schedules. The Element can be availed of at $23,575. It is geared with a five-speed automatic transmission and is a fun to drive.

The fine detail of the Element is the one thing that really sets it apart from former vehicles of Honda. It has major body panels that contain no textured plastic pieces. In other words, its roof trim, fenders, as well as the bumpers are body-colored. As for its front fascia, it incorporates a more car-like bumper shape. It has unique headlights to light its way. When it comes to the wheels, the Element is equipped with 18-inch alloy. Former Honda models have only 16 inches.

It features the Vehicle Stability Assist or the VSA, which is a stability control system that further provides for a comfortable and safe ride. Among its safety equipments are the dual-threshold front airbags and the Occupant Position Detection System that works to control deployment. Many say that Honda made a breakthrough upon the creation of the Honda Element. As for ride control, it has an independent suspension system that features the modified MacPherson struts for the front, double wishbones when it comes to the rear and unmatched Honda shocks and springs that can be availed of at Bilstein shocks for quality rides.

Nissan has come up with their 2009 GT-R. It has the capacity to run up to 193 mph. It can run 0-60 in 3.5 seconds. Now, that’s really something. The 2009 Nissan GT-R features 473 hp, 433 lb. ft. twin-turbo V6 and an all-wheel-drive. Apart from this, it features dual-clutch six-speed automatic that allows for one to operate through the paddles on the steering wheel. Its running capacity is not far off from the Porsche Turbo. The one thing that separates the two is that the 2009 Nissan GT-R is not a race car. It can be used to run on the streets and one can actually put on a license plate on it.

The chief engineer that is hands-on the new GT-R says that they especially designed and engineered the said vehicle to be all-around, for all-seasons, and an all-weather car that is a comfort to drive on a daily basis. For all you racers out there who are trying to find the right car that will not fall short in comparison to the one you’re using, the 2009 Nissan GT-R might be the best car for you. Many regard the 2009 Nissan GT-R as a supercar. It has a carbon fiber prop shop that runs back to the transaxle and also has the capacity to incorporate the transmission, clutch as well as the transaxle together. All these to establish a good damping and stiffness ability. When one shifts gears, it is done with the use of a twin-clutch system. There is one clutch that is used to handle odd gears while the other clutch is used for even ones. Shifting gears take only 0.2 seconds in the GT-R. Less than a second! It has a shaft that sends power to the front wheels and can split the torque to 2/98 under hard acceleration and 50/50 under normal driving.

It is geared with Bilstein shocks called the Bilstein Damptronic shocks that come in three settings: the R, Sports, and Comfort. I really thought the 2009 Nissan GT-R will have Nissan shocks on it but it looks like the people behind the making of it have good reasons for choosing Bilstein shocks.