2009 Subaru Forester Preview

Subaru has issued this photo of the 2009 Forester, the mid-size crossover that will make its world debut at the Detroit auto show in mid-January.

New 2009 Subaru Forester is redesigned with more traditional SUV styling cues, and with a bigger body intended to make the Forester more competitive with the growing crossover class. The new version sees its wheelbase grow by 3.6 inches to 103.0 inches, and its overall length is up by about three inches too--which Subaru says maintains the "trim exterior packaging" that current Forester owners want. With the stretched length comes a stronger body structure, Subaru promises, and a ground clearance of up to 8.9 inches.

The engines motivating new Subaru Forester are both flat fours, one turbocharged and one normally aspirated. Power outputs haven't been released but Subaru says in a press release that the 2.5-liter fours will offer better low-end and mid-range torque. Manual and automatic transmissions will be offered; manual-equipped cars will get a hill-start helper that keeps the Forester from rolling backward when launching uphill.

Inside, the Forester gets a higher grade of interior trim and an auxiliary jack for MP3 players. A navigation system and satellite radio are options.

� Source: thecarconnection
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2008 Toyota Land Cruiser Review

The longest-surviving nameplate in the Toyota lineup, the Land Cruiser traces its roots to an earlier era when sport-utility vehicles were judged for their off-road credentials above all else. From those early days, the Land Cruiser has morphed through several generations. It's gotten bigger, more luxurious and, naturally, more expensive. Through it all, however, this iconic Toyota has maintained the constants of excellent off-road ability and a reputation for reliability and durability.

For 2008, Toyota is hoping for more of the same -- but better, of course -- for its fully redesigned Land Cruiser. The previous-generation SUV, though certainly capable, had been on sale since 1998 and was getting increasingly dated in terms of features and design. Compared to last year's model, 2008 Toyota Land Cruiser has the same wheelbase but is 2.4 inches longer and about an inch wider and taller. The exterior has been freshened but is still conservative, and underneath is again a traditional body-on-frame design. The frame is considerably stiffer than before, and Toyota says the payoff is enhanced ruggedness, towing capacity and crashworthiness. It also works in conjunction with a new front-suspension design to improve on-road handling.

2008 Toyota Land Cruiser has also gotten heavier by about 265 pounds, but no one will likely notice thanks to its new engine. It's an advanced 5.7-liter V8, the same one featured as the Toyota Tundra's top-shelf choice. It cranks out 381 horsepower and is connected to a new six-speed automatic transmission with full-time four-wheel drive and low-range gearing. The new engine also meets a stricter emission standard (ULEV) and returns slightly better fuel economy than last year's 265-hp, 4.7-liter V8.

Inside, Toyota has updated the cabin with a fresh design and enhanced features. For the first time, there's a heavy-duty four-zone climate control system, a surround-sound audio system and additional airbag coverage with an available pre-collision seatbelt preparation feature. �Price: $63,200.

� Source: edmunds
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Video Review HP iPAQ 110

About This Video
Part 1 of Pocketnow.com's video review for the HP iPAQ 110

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Review of UMTS-communicator Samsung i780 Part two ? hardware platform, navigation, preinstalled software

Mobile-review have posted the second part of their Samsung i780 review. Here is the final impression.

The reception quality was never an issue with the i780. The loudspeaker's volume was average or a tag higher than that, which made for audible calls in most environments. We found a couple of things to fault the vibro alert for ? we couldn't feel it when the i780 was in outerwear or in a bag. The earpiece fared well in general with its pretty much average volume, however people on the other end of our calls would frequently complain about the phone's extremely sensitive microphone which rendered our voices excessively loud. But keep in mind that we didn?t have a commercial unit in our laboratory, so we believe when the i780 arrives this drawback will have already been dealt with.

The Samsung i780 has no direct rivals in sight ? neither design-wise nor in terms of technological talents. And while its looks may be questioned by some (not all consumers are fond of thumbboards and thus thick casings, as well as square-shaped displays), as far as its spec sheet is concerned, the Samsung i780 packs more punch than any other device available today.

In this sense, the i780 is somewhat like the HTC TyTN II, however, the latter boasts a batter camera, yet a weaker CPU. Both retain displays with average resolutions, however the Samsung's matrix has the upper hand here. Here is a brief conclusion on what is good and what is bad about the i780:

The good:

New platform, PXA3xx, packing the best-performing CPU among WM-powered solutions
128 Mb of RAM
Decent display
Robust build quality
Well-picked suite of applications
The bad:

Mediocre (for Samsung) 2 Mpix camera, which is only in line with other WM communicators
Non-standard display resolution (320x320 pixels), bringing about issues with games and some applications
Touchpad, installed instead of a conventional navigation key (not everyone finds it convenient)
And the most interesting. The device is slotted for early 2008 (in Russia), no word on exact release dates, though. But they have already let some info on its retail price slip ? the i780 will go for 700 USD for both European and Russian (!) markets. We put an exclamation mark in there on purpose ? there will actually be one price for these two markets. So even if you throw its letdowns into the equation, specifically a weakish camera, questionable ergonomics and a suqare display, all thanks to its price tag, the i780 morphs into one of the most intriguing offerings on the market of Windows Mobile communicators.

In essence, its price is almost half of what the HTC TyTN II goes for, lower than that of the HTC Touch Cruise, Glofiish X800, M800, X650, Asus P750 and even the Mio A702. What is more, while the Samsung i780 may not trump the above in some departments, it surely is on a par with them.

And now for the revelation we promised earlier in this write-up ? why the i780 is very likely to be overlooked with all its merits and strengths. There are several reasons for that and the first one is that Samsung is not synonymous to Windows Mobile communicators in minds of most users. Many believe Samsung rolls out intuitive and eye-candy phones, which can be mastered by the very act of turning them on. Then, brand name. Which is all famous and renowned, yet has nothing to do with Windows Mobile. Essentially, the reverse thing is true as well ? the consumers bent on Windows Mobile do remember that Samsung occasionally forays into this market with some solution, but they will hardly focus on devices from this maker alone. And that?s the place where another factor comes into play - the way the company treats the platform.

It is an open secret that most of Samsung's resources on the market of mobile devices are allocated to phones, whereas the segment of smartphones and communicators running Windows Mobile is more of a proving ground for the manufacturer. That's where the way it looks at this market stems from - as a rule, Samsung's solutions are loners on the Windows Mobile market, meaning that once they forge a new device, off it goes ? no ad campaigns whatsoever, since the company doesn?t find the segment that interesting. But let's leave all these sad things behind. All we have left to say is that despite its oddball controls, quirky design and a very questionable square display, the Samsung i780 is still worth a glance or two.

Who will fall for this communicator? There is only one question to ask yourself to determine whether you are one of them or not ? if you can live with all the abovementioned letdowns, then you should definitely keep the Samsung i780 towards the top of your short-list, as it is one of the best offerings on the WM market in terms of the price/quality ratio.

Click for part one

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Brief Review: SanDisk Powered Nokia N82 8GB Edition

With the current dollar to euro exchange rate there was no point in me spending any money on electronic equipment in Finland. Low and behold I’m in the US for the next 2 and a half weeks and I took it upon myself to get an 8GB microSD card for my Nokia N82 since I already filled up my old 4GB unit. From the comfort of my bed I asked my Jaiku friends where I can buy one retail, Ricky the Symbian Guru said the Verizon Store and I knew there was one less than 3 miles away from my home.

Walked in, ask the lovely young girl if there are any 8GB microSD cards in stock, she brings one out for me from the back, I’m ecstatic that their SanDisk branded, she rings it up and $105.53 later here I am:

Where is the card?! I thought you would never ask:

It works just fine. You can grab the new theme I’m using from Zach over at Symbian in Motion.

How is the speed? Let us see how long it takes to move 3.5 GB of pirated Happy Hardcore and DNB music directly to the card via the full size SD adapter plugged into my Windows Vista Ultimate running Lenovo ThinkPad’s T61 built in card reader:

I’m more than delighted. Highly recommended. 10/10

Update: Ricky asked me to post a screenshot of moving data to the card with it inside the N82 over USB. I don’t recommend you do this since it is mind blowingly slow:

---
Related Articles at IntoMobile:

• Brief: Nokia N95 8GB North American Edition: 100% Confirmed
• Brief: 2 color variants, Black and White, of the Nokia N82 to be released
• Sandisk launches the US Nokia N95 8 GB before Nokia does
• Nokia N95, N95 8 GB, N82 Review: What do you want to know?
• Nokia leak hints at Nokia N95 8GB North American Version, N82 8GB

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Samsung FlipShot Review

About This Video
Verizon's FlipShot tops any other carrier's cameraphones - at least in terms of photographic prowess. The pictures are great and the camera is easy to use. As a phone it's not quite as impressive.

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Review of UMTS-communicator Samsung i780

Mobile-review have posted their Samsung i780 review and here are the specs and final impression.

We will look how well the i780?s 2 Mpix camera fares in the second part of the review, as well as the platform?s specs and software. The handset?s hardware department is interesting for combining the Qualcomm platform and a latest-gen CPU - the Marvell PXA3xx. Also we will be covering the operating system?s abilities, bundled GPS and other bits and pieces.

Our first impressions from hands-on with the i780 are very positive - the communicator is palm-friendly, offering both QWERTY-powered input and the convenience of single-handed handling. Its design won't leave you indifferent, being in keeping with Samsung's finest traditions - top-notch materials and very sturdy feel.

Specifications:
Type: Windows Mobile-communicator
Form-factor: QWERTY-enabled candybar
Rivals: no direct rivals
Position in the line-up: first of a kind
Materials used: plastic
Operating system: Windows Mobile 6 Professional
CPU: Marvell PXA3xx (416-624 MHz)
RAM: 128 Mb (78 Mb for applications)
ROM: 256 Mb (150 Mb available to user)
Connectivity: microSD, Bluetooth 2.0+EDR (A2DP), Wi-Fi (IEEE802.11b/g/e), proprietary socket for charging/PC sync/headset
GSM: 900/1800/1900, EDGE/GPRS; WCDMA 2100/HSDPA
Display: 2.55?, 320x320-pixel resolution, 65K colors
Camera: 2 Mpix, 320x240-pixel video recording
Extras: GPS, touchpad, display tweaked for finger-based navigation
Battery: detachable Li-Ion
Dimensions: 116x62x15 mm
Weight: 120 g

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How to Properly Make Use of an ATV Review

Sometimes when you're walking past an ATV shop and wondering if it's time to replace the ailing ATV that you have sitting at home, you can't help but wonder what other professionals are saying about the ATV that you're salivating over. So what do you do? You walk over to the magazine store and grab the latest magazine and scan the pages to see if you can find a review on the ATV that you just saw. If they don't have an ATV review on that, you go home, log onto the Internet and start scouring the World Wide Web for a review on the ATV.

It's common but let's just sit here and wonder a bit....how much of the review should we believe in?

Well, if you left it up to me, I'd say about 40%. The reason is very simple. Don't think for a minute there that I think the reviewers are writing nonsense and that we can't trust them. We can. In fact, these are people who deal with ATVs day in and day out, so, they should have privileged information PLUS knowledge on how best to review an ATV. But BECAUSE they deal with ATVs every day of their working life, their review of an ATV might be skewed by their boredom of seeing yet another INNOVATIVE and STYLISH ATV.

In all honesty, I've spent some time reviewing ATVs as well and I've gotten to a point whereby I sit there flipping past photos of one ATV after another without noticing the slightest bit of difference! Suddenly, they all look, sound, perform the same.

When reading a review, the first thing that you should remember is that the ATV review was written by a man....well, a person. And that person has his or her own personality and preferences. He could be a bulky man with the built of Hulk Hogan whilst you're a young woman looking for something chic and sleek. What you're looking for in an ATV is completely different from what this reviewer is looking for. So, the perspective might not be the same. The ATV reviewer might like huge monster machines while you're looking for an ATV you can lug around plants in the yard.

Remember, different ATVs are designed for a different group of riders. So, the first thing you should look for in the review is what KIND of ATV you're reading about. Use your common sense to judge whatever the reviewer has to say about the machine; and the best thing you can do for yourself is to go over and test run the said ATV after reading the ATV review before handing over your credit card. The review might have been influenced by the opinion of others hanging around him, so, he or she may not have had the chance to form his own opinion yet. So, what you're reading is a skewed version of the review writer's original opinion.

Gee, I hope I am making sense here.

In conclusion, what I say is that if you want to know if an ATV is right for you or not, read a review and then give the ATV a test run before you buy it.

Autor: Tony Mikael

Tony Mikael is an ATV enthusiast enthusiastically promoting ATV riding as a sport and family activity! When he's not off on one of his impromptu ATV expeditions, he runs one of the hottest and fastest-growing ATV sites right now... http://www.atv4kids.com

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Reverse Funnel System - My First 7 Days

I spent some time in the back office of the system over the weekend, then Monday, I hopped on an Inner Circle call where I was given a specific call to action. The Inner Circle calls I have since discovered are more than I had expected to recieve in that the content is just raw, real training by millionaires who provide step by step instructions.

I simply followed directions. By Tuesday night (within 24 hours) I had a paid lead. I was floored! I believed the system worked because of the high recommendation by my partner, however, I didn't know it would happen so fast. I emailed support and asked whether I needed to call or email the lead or what, I just wasn't sure. In old school marketing, I always had to call the leads. Support emailed back to advise me not to do a thing. They said to just let the system work.

Taking support's advice, I watched the lead in my 'paid lead' category sit there for a couple of days wondering if this is really all there is to it. By now it's Friday night. I was at my computer, my husband is downstairs watching the game, and I see an email come in notifying me that I had made a $1,000 commission in my business. When I looked at the name of the person that joined, it was my RFS lead!

I jumped up, yelled down to Steve, he came running upstairs and by the time he got to me, I was acting like an excited child. I was laughing and told him I couldn't hardly believe it. I was holding my head in disbelief. I was thrilled! I called my business associate who was vacationing in Hawaii and I told him what had happened. He gave me the official "I told you so!" and then together, we called our new business partner. Now he's up and running himself.

I have to tell you, as much as I have just laid myself out to you to tell you how crazy I got when I actually saw the system work, I'm not ashamed to admit it. I continue to have many leads come through the system. In my opinion, the system and the concept behind it is powerful and I will continue to use it. I've seen it first hand working by simply placing ads directing people to the funner website. In addition, the training that I'm receiving from Ty and his leaders really do make a difference in my business.

Autor: Debbie Turner

Debbie Turner is an Internet Marketer and Home Based Business Developer. Steve is the co-author and married to Debbie. For information specifically about the Reverse Funnel system, visit http://www.thousanddollarprofits.com/58312 Steve and Debbie have owned their own businesses for 20+ years. They are always looking for business partners to train who are serious about having financial success and fun at the same time for a well balanced life. Debbie can be reached at 843.270.5611. Steve can be reached at 843.343.7283. Their personal website is http://www.WhoIsSteveAndDebbieTurner.com and you can email them there also.

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Baby Slings - Padded vs Unpadded

There's a debate going on, almost as intense as digital vs. analog, satellite tv vs. cable. It's padded vs. unpadded. No, it isn't referring to women's underwear. It's the baby sling debate.

For those of you who haven't been up on the Hollywood news of how stars like Julia Roberts, Brooke Shields, and even Brad Pitt carry their children, baby slings are worn over the head and shoulder and often have a ring sewn into the end for adjustability. They are used to carry newborns through tots 4-years old. The slings have been proven to simulate a more womb-like environment for the young child, promoting a happier baby and one more closely bonded to its parent.

But even with such a basic design, there are many variations. One of the biggest differences is whether the sling contains batting sewn into its layers (padded) or is simply fabric without batting (unpadded).

There are pluses and minus to each, it really comes down to these three issues: comfort, ease of use, and support.

• Comfort
  Padded baby slings typically have padding where the sling hangs on the parent's shoulder. This makes carrying the child more comfortable, which is especially important for extended periods.

  One brand has side rails sewn together over the shoulder pillow; which doubles their padding and prevents the sides from falling down toward the parent's elbows or pressing into his/her neck, thus keeping the whole sling in better proportion for the wearer.

  One criticism of the padded baby sling is that the extra batting causes it to get warmer than its unpadded counterpart, especially in the summer months, although cotton batting and fabric will stay cooler than polyester.

• Ease of Use
  Advocates of the unpadded sling prefer being able to slip the non-bulky sling into a purse. It is also more adjustable than the padded version since padding cannot fit through the ring.
• Support
  The batting of the padded baby sling serves to support the child's head and legs, simulating how a parent would hold a child. This is important for an infant, and also allows for hands-free nursing. The padded side rails are an extra safeguard against the baby falling out.

Whether you choose a padded or unpadded sling depends entirely on your situation. If you have a newborn or infant, padded would be better because of the extra support it gives your baby. For older children who won't be carried for extended periods of time, an unpadded sling might do the trick. Either type is a great way to bond with your child while giving your arms a break.

Autor: S. Duff

To find out more about the Over the Shoulder Baby Sling, which contains twice the padding of the leading brand, visit Baby Slings Direct.com

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

Paradise For Shopaholics

Paris is considered to be a symbol of a grand and luxurious life. Parisians go shopping not necessarily to buy anything. It's a kind of a nice pastime. Parisians adore to go to the boutiques, to enjoy the services they offer and to try on the most trendy items of the new collections made by the best fashion masters.

Champs Elysee and Avenue Montaigne are the main shopping streets of the city. The peculiarity of shopping in the French capital is the great number of covered galleries, which host numerous shops of different ranks. Rue Cler is for a shopping of another level. This is a street for pedestrians which is plenty of flower shops and greengroceries.

One of the oldest department stores in Paris is Le Printemps, which was opened in 1864. The Parisians say it's the most visited historical monument of the capital. More than 80 thousand people visit this shop every day. In fact it is a real city, which is divided into three districts. In the old building one can find different goods for the house and in the new one, built in 1920, are concentrated products for women and kids. Men can find everything necessary (as well as unnecessary) in the Brummell shop situated in the most modern building of Le Printemps. This is the first French department store where the goods "for men only" are situated.

All the "districts" of Le Printemps are connected by glass crossings and cover the territory of 50,000 sq m. In the city one can choose something out of 500,000 items as well as visit an exhibition, watch a performance or a movie, listen to classical music, go to the hairdresser's or a massage parlour, get a consultation by a professional stylist or attend fashion showrooms. By the way Le Printemps is not only one of the biggest department stores in Europe but also a founder of its own brands.

The fifth part of the store's turnover is made by the tourists. It's very convenient for the guests of the capital to do the shopping as Le Printemps provides all the necessary information on the location of the different sections. In duty free service department the foreigners can get information on the purchases offered and to take a plan of the shop written in their native tongue. Le Printemps is famous for its sales. There are usual season sales as well as special "8 golden days" during which one can find yellow stickers on the price tags. Such stickers indicate the lowered price of the good. "8 golden days" are held in autumn and spring and the theme sales take place almost every month. As a rule the shops are open from 9.30 am to 19 pm every day (except Sunday).

Markets and small stores are usually closed on Mondays.

In summer some shops close for vacations.

Autor: Vasilisa Krolikova

www.parishotels-discount.com

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

There s More To Offer Than Just The Sealy PosturePedic

Sealy is the world's largest mattress manufacturer but most folks just know about the Sealy PosturePedic collection. But the company makes more than just the traditional innerspring kind, it also makes latex and the latest technical innovation; the memory foam mattress.

The Sealy PosturePedic range of mattresses is its core brand. The mattress was originally designed with the help of orthopedic surgeons. Until recently, manufacturers made mattresses without seeking any help from the medical profession; most still do. But, if you're seriously telling your customers that yours is going to support them better and give them a more restful night's sleep then you really ought to be designing and testing your product with healthcare professionals.

Of course Sealy aren't the only manufacturer now doing this, others like Kingsdown and Restonic are also designing mattresses with the help of the medical profession. In fact, the Kingsdown mattress is now sold in conjunction with the customer being analyzed using its patented Dormo-Diagnostics Sleep Machine - a computer program analyses your body shape, and weight distribution and compares this against medical studies involving millions of people. If you're thinking of buying a Sealy PosturePedic you should also take a look at the Kingsdown Body System mattress for comparison.

The Sealy SpringFree mattress is made from 100% latex. It's comprised of a solid high-density core and is laminated with different densities of latex foam to provide support and maximum comfort. Latex had gone out of fashion but it is becoming fashionable once again, due in part to the popularity of memory foam. Many want the pressure relieving properties of memory foam but want a safer product that is also not heat sensitive so the body molding effect is instantaneous. The latex used in the SpringFree collection is synthetic. If you prefer natural latex then check out the Jamison Talalay mattress.

The Sealy TrueForm mattress is a memory foam mattress. Memory foam is viscoelastic foam that is both weight and heat sensitive and conforms to the exact shape of the person lying down on it. Unlike other mattresses, this has been shown to distribute weight far more evenly and so minimize pressure points. All viscoelastic mattresses are made using a base block of high-density (non-memory) foam on top of which is laminated one or several layers of memory foam. All good memory foam should have a minimum of 5 lbs/cubic foot density - the TrueForm has 5.2 lbs.

Sealy make three different mattresses in the TrueForm collection; the 8, 9 and 11 Series. Each offers the same base layer but different configurations of the top, memory foam layers.

There is far more on offer than just the Sealy PosturePedic mattress. Both the latex and memory foam collections offer the consumer more choice as to type they want. Many consumer mattress reviews give all types a good overall rating. However, finding the perfect one is a very subjective matter and you are best advised to try out as many with as many brands - like the Jamison and Kingsdown mattress mentioned above - as you can before you buy.

Autor: Robin OBrien

Follow the links for the Sealy PosturePedic as wells as other brands like the Kingsdown mattress and read more mattress reviews.

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

The Different Types Of Stair Lifts That Are Available

With prices of stair lifts getting cheaper, buying and installing one has become a real option for many. They can help people with mobility problems regain their home. Many types are on offer - both new and used - so there's going to be one that is suitable no matter the requirements. What follows is a quick guide to the types on the market.

There are two models the market; the straight and the curved. As their names suggest, one is for situations where the staircase is straight, whereas the other is for staircases that are curved, turn, have intermediate landings or obstacles on the stairway.

The price of a curved unit is considerable more than that of a straight one. A straight model is factory built and can be installed in a matter of hours. But the curved model is designed specially designed for a specific location and can take weeks to install. Not all manufacturers make curved models; those that do include the Electra-Ride III Curved Rail stair lift from Bruno and the 260 stair lift from Stannah.

You can get both home and outdoor models. Not all manufacturers can supply outdoor models. Those that do include the Electra-Ride Elite Outdoor one from Bruno and the Acorn Superglide Outdoor Stair Lift.

When they were first made, they were all powered using AC mains electricity. Batteries were seen as being unreliable, took a long time to charge and their charge soon dissipated. However, rechargeable batteries have gotten much better, so much so, that most companies now only make DC battery electric units. Battery operated models offer certain advantages over AC mains ones. Battery electric units give smoother start and stops; don't require any special wiring for installation; and the lift can still be operated during power outages. However, AC mains operated electric units do offer one advantage; they don't require constant charging - an important consideration if you plan on using your lift many times during the day or if there will be more than one person using it.

Summit stair lifts are AC mains electric units.

Stair lifts come in many different configurations. You can get remote control operated models or you can opt for a joystick (or both); you can get different types of safety belts; seats come in different sizes; you can get manual or motorized swivel seats; the list goes on. Many manufacturers are aware that not everyone can sit down comfortable and have developed 'perch' models, the Acorn Superglide Perch being one such.

To use an ordinary unit the person must be able to lift themselves on and off the seat. For many wheelchair users this is not an option. Some companies do manufacture wheelchair units, but most domestic situation prohibit their use as home staircases are typically not wide enough and the track must be secured to a load bearing wall. However, if you home is suitable the Stannah Stairiser Wheelchair is an excellent product.

The above is an overview of the different types of stair lifts available. Before you decide on which one is best for you, you should consult with a reputable dealer. They are easy to find on the web. Many will do a home survey free of charge with no obligation to buy.

Autor: Robin OBrien

Follow the links for wheelchair stair lifts and Stannah stair lifts as well as stair lift reviews.

Added: December 26, 2007
Source: http://ezinearticles.com/

2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Review

Introduction
Unlike smaller hybrid cars that offer readily apparent fuel economy benefits, the case for hybrid sport-utility vehicles is less clear-cut. On one hand, they promote wider acceptance of hybrid technology by virtue of their family-friendly packaging. As detractors are quick to point out, though, some hybrid SUVs aren't radically more fuel-efficient than their non-hybrid counterparts -- yielding benefits of the feel-good variety rather than measurable mileage gains. However, the improvements on the redesigned 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid are undeniable. In addition to being a larger, more flexible family vehicle than the original Highlander Hybrid, judged by the EPA's revised rating system, it's no less frugal with fuel.

If you ever read up on the previous Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the drivetrain components of the new version will seem familiar. The main power source is a 3.3-liter gasoline V6 engine, which is rated at 208 horsepower in this application. With the propulsion assistance of two electric motors, one in front and one in rear, the '08 Highlander Hybrid produces a cumulative 270 hp. A third electric motor functions as a generator and engine starter. As in the past, Toyota's hybrid SUV has what the company calls an "electronically controlled continuously variable transmission." This is not a CVT in the traditional sense and is instead a simplified power-split device that coordinates the efforts of the various power sources.

For consumers living in milder climates, the 2008 Toyota Highlander Hybrid should prove quite practical. Its available third-row seat is roomy enough for adults in a pinch, and easy-folding second-row seats make it a cinch for 6-year-olds to seat themselves without help. Alternatively, they can just walk through the center aisle, as the 40/20/40 second-row bench has an available "Center Stow" feature that allows you to fold away the center "20" section, leaving a pair of captain's chairs just like in a minivan.

Powertrains and Performance
Toyota's Highlander Hybrid uses a 208-hp 3.3-liter V6 engine in combination with three electric motors. One electric motor functions solely as a generator, recharging the SUV's nickel metal hydride battery pack, while the others concentrate on propulsion (but also work as generators during braking). Combined output is 270 hp, and with separate electric motors driving the front and rear wheels, the Highlander Hybrid is effectively a four-wheel-drive vehicle. A simplified CVT governs the contributions of the various power sources.

� Source: seriouswheels
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2008 Suzuki XL7 Review

Introduction
If Costco's Kirkland Signature brand were to sell a car it would probably be a lot like the 2008 Suzuki XL7. Like the many Kirkland items, the XL7 is bulk-sized, with lots of features at a low price and an overall quality that slightly trails that of big-name brands. While you may not strive to own a Kirkland product or a Suzuki, it's hard to argue with the family-friendly value that each provides.

The second-generation XL7 is the largest SUV Suzuki has ever produced, dipping generously into partner GM's parts bin to create a mostly unique end product. Under the skin is a stretched platform shared with the Chevy Equinox and Pontiac Torrent twins, but the XL7 boasts its own distinctive styling (check out those funky headlights) and a 3.6-liter V6 engine designed by General Motors, but built by Suzuki in Japan. Even though it's equipped with only five seats, the base XL7 provides more maximum cargo capacity than a Honda Pilot at a price that rivals the Honda CR-V. Other trims offer a fold-flat third-row seat that provides enough room for children and maintains the ample storage capacity.

But if price seems to be a running theme, that's no mistake. Considering that the 2008 Suzuki XL7 is priced similar to compact crossovers like the Toyota RAV4, the Suzuki's quality difference versus the big boys isn't large enough to completely disregard the significant discount it provides. Whether you're buying a 3-liter tub of Kirkland cashews or a $26,000 SUV, value is difficult to ignore.

Powertrains and Performance
The 2008 XL7 features a 3.6-liter V6 that delivers 252 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque. It is connected to a five-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. All trim levels are available with all-wheel drive except the base model, which is front-drive only. In performance testing a FWD XL7 went to 60 mph in a tidy 8.2 seconds. Fuel economy estimates for 2008 are 16 mpg city and 22 mpg highway for front-wheel-drive models, while all-wheel-drive versions rate practically the same, dropping the city rating by only 1 mpg. These figures are on par with other vehicles in the class.

� Source: edmunds
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2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK Preview

Mercedes SLK roadster is getting a facelift for 2009, with around 650 parts that are either brand new or modified. Most obvious is the redesigned front end, which apes the style of the much larger McLaren SLR road car. The air dam has also been modified to give the whole nose a more pronounced arrow-like shape.

The designers have also revamped the rear end with a new diffuser-style lower section, and there's trapezoidal exhaust tail pipes and AMG-inspired darkened tail lights. Round the side the door mirrors are larger than before, and feature LED indicators.

Inside the car there's a revised cabin with new instrument cluster and three-spoke sports steering wheel with multi-function buttons. Mercedes is also installing its latest audio and telematics package in the SLK for the first time. Standard integrated features include a Bluetooth hands-free system and an MP3 interface hidden in the glove box. The firm's Linguatronic voice-operated control system is on the options list for the first time.

All engines offer more power and torque, but less carbon dioxide emissions. As an example, the V-6 unit in the popular SLK 350 has the same 3.5-liter capacity, but now develops 305 hp, up 33 hp on the outgoing model.

Since its launch in 1997, close to five million SLKs have been sold around the world. The latest version hits showrooms from April, with prices to be announced early in the new year.

� Source: thecarconnection
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Review of GSM-handsets Nokia 3109/3110 Classic

Mobile-review have posted their review on the Nokia 3109/3110 Classic. Here is the final impression.

Impressions
The volume of 64-chord ring tones is far above average - your 3110 Classic won't pass unnoticed in any environment, even in subway. The vibro alert takes a back seat in this case (if you will miss a call probably only while in closed headphones), even though it is quite good. The 3110 Classic delivers good call quality, just like any other latest-gen phone, however it could use some more volume for the earpiece, as in call-unfriendly environments you may well experience some problems.

The model retails for around 210 USD (150 Euro) these days, and looking at the offerings it competes with, the Nokia 3110 Classic is pretty much overpriced even when it has been available for some time. Although, it boasts a number of distinctive touches - no-frills looks, pocketable dimensions and decent ergonomics in particular.

This phone will appeal to those seeking an unsophisticated handset for calls or a secondary device (and having no shortage of money at that). The 3109 and the 3110 Classic are behind Sony Ericsson?s solutions as far as the younger audience is considered (for lacking Java multitasking), and they are not style-conscious devices as opposed to the Motorola L9 and the Samsung E200. But nevertheless, these two are still pretty capable calling, ringing and buzzing devices.

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Shiny Review: Samsung G800 mobile with optical zoom

About This Video
Susi looks at the Samsung G800, which is the first mobile phone with optical zoom.

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2008 Kia Rio5 SX Review

In an automotive context, don't practicality and economy exclude a pleasant driving experience? After all, the best fuel economy means the smallest, lightest car, unless you want to pay a premium for a hybrid. And not only are small cars small, and cramped, they're slow, noisy, and uncomfortable. Right?

The second-generation 2008 Kia Rio5 SX debuted for model year 2006, in both sedan and Rio5 hatchback form. The sedan section covers basic, inexpensive transportation with the $11,515 base model. The LX adds popular amenities including air conditioning and a good audio system, with the SX getting sportier interior and exterior trim to top out at just over $15,000 with a four-speed automatic transmission, or a little over $14,000 with a five-speed stick. The Rio5 version debuted as the premium model in the line, available only in SX trim. For 2008, an LX model has been added. It drops the fancier interior trim, exterior foglamps and spoiler, and replaces the SX-spec 15-inch alloy wheels with 14-inch steel rims at a savings of almost $1,000 - $13,500 or so with the stick, $14.4 with the automatic.

PERFORMANCE: With 110 horsepower out of 1.6 liters (at 6000 rpm) and 107 lb-ft of torque (at 4500) the Rio5 isn't going to race any supercars. But that's competitive with the other cars in its class, and with less than 2500 pounds to pull around, it's enough for an entertaining and reasonably economical driving experience, especially with the standard five-speed manual transmission. For optimum performance, just keep it over 4000 rpm, and keep working the gearshift - small-displacement driving 101, really. It's more fun to drive a slow car fast than a fast car slow, as the old saying goes. And the Rio5 has no problem keeping up with traffic, and responds well to being driven enthusiastically. EPA mileage is 27/32, and I got 28 in a mix of city and highway driving. 30 should be easy with a little less weight on the right foot.

� Source: theautochannel
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2008 Chevrolet Equinox Review

Introduction
With lots of functional cabin space for a vehicle of its size, the well-equipped Chevrolet Equinox has been a popular choice for a small SUV in recent years. Owners enjoy the Equinox's roomy cabin -- the rear seats slide fore and aft to boost cargo room or legroom when needed -- and often comment favorably about the vehicle's power and fuel efficiency.

For 2008, Chevrolet injects more style and performance into the Equinox. Leading the way is a new high-performance Sport model complete with lowered ride height and a new 3.6-liter V6 good for 40 percent more power over the standard 3.4-liter V6 engine. Chevrolet promises a 0-60-mph acceleration time under 7 seconds. The Sport's hydraulic power steering also addresses one of our Equinox criticisms that related to lackluster steering response on lesser versions. Like its stablemates, it offers the option of all-wheel drive.

For those who instead desire more refinement and luxury, the new Equinox LTZ is differentiated by bright exterior accents, heated leather seats, upgraded premium audio and head curtain side-impact airbags. The LTZ also benefits from the same enhanced ride and handling package as LS and LT models, consisting of retuned shocks, spring rates and hydraulic bushings.

Powertrains and Performance
All 2008 Chevy Equinox trim levels are available with a choice of front-wheel or all-wheel drive. Non-Sport models are equipped with the standard 3.4-liter V6 engine coupled to a five-speed automatic transmission. With 185 horsepower and 210 pound-feet of torque, this engine offers respectable performance that should please most owners. The Sport model substitutes one of the most powerful engines for this class, a 3.6-liter V6 cranking out 264 hp and 250 lb-ft of torque. It's hooked up to a six-speed automatic with manual shift control.

� Source: edmunds
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2008 Volvo S60 Review

Introduction
A midsize entry-level luxury sedan, the 2008 Volvo S60 stands apart from its rivals in many ways. Whereas most of the cars in this segment are powered by normally aspirated V6 engines, the S60 offers turbocharged five-cylinders instead. Styling is also left of center. Even as it enters its eighth year of this model cycle, the S60 still sports a distinctive Scandinavian flavor. The cabin is more functional than flashy, but you'd be hard-pressed to find fault with its solid ergonomics and comfortable, orthopedically correct seats. Where the S60 falls short is in performance -- the Swedish sedan's handling dynamics are a bit dull compared to newer rivals -- and in the backseat, where the S60 has less real-world legroom than Volvo's compact S40.

As the S60 relies upon a turbocharged inline-5 for power, its acceleration can feel a little sluggish compared to competitors like the Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G35 and Lexus ES and IS sedans. All those rivals offer the broader power deliver of a larger-displacement six-cylinder engine. And although the S60 rides smoothly, it's not as composed over bumps as its competition. Though likely satisfying to own thanks to its comfort, safety and Scandinavian personality, we suggest taking a look at newer, better-performing sedans populating this price range before closing a deal on this aging Volvo.

Powertrains and Performance
The S60 2.5T has a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder rated for 208 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed automatic transmission is standard with this engine, and it routes power either to the front wheels or all four on the all-wheel-drive (2.5T AWD) model.

The S60 T5 has a slightly smaller 2.4-liter inline-5 but uses a higher-boost turbocharger, helping it produce 257 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T5 is front-wheel-drive only and comes with a five-speed automatic with a manual-shift mode.

� Source: edmunds
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Review of GSM-handset Samsung Armani (SGH-P520)

Mobile-review have posted their Samsung Armani P-520 review today. Here is the final impression.

Impressions
The reception quality was never an issue with the Samsung P520, as it was in line with other offerings available in this class. Our ring tones had average volume or a tad lower than that ? we would miss our calls even with the Armani in a pocket often enough. The vibro alert was moderate strength-wise, retaining no edge over other Samsung-branded solutions.

Curiously enough, but the Samsung P520 is a snazzy and quaint solution. While its initial price tag of 1100-1200 USD (or 750 Euro) won?t really thrill the market, it is still a trade-off for the fashion house?s name engraved on the casing. Whether ?Giorgio Armani? really costs that much ? up to consumers to decide. But since the P520 is planned as a vastly popular solution, unlike the first members of the Card Phones line-up, the brand it retains is not the least important thing about it. Samsung banks on this very handset and believes it will be a success ? and having seen a ton of write-ups on this phone, you start to think that even if it won?t be all the rage, it will surely garner some interest.

December will also see the Samsung P720?s debut, capable of handling two SIM-cards simultaneously, much like the Samsung DuoS. Speaking of the Card Phones line-up, the fourth generation of handsets will arrive during spring 2008, picking up the line of the Samsung P520, reviewed today.

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Sony Ericsson W960i reviewed by IntoMobile

Well folks, here it is - the long awaited Sony Ericsson W960i review is before you, divided into several sections. Hope you’ll find it useful, and in case you still have questions after reading it, please use our comments form — I’ll do my best to answer in one of the future posts. Ready? Let’s roll…

The look

The Sony Ericsson W960i is the most beautiful UIQ 3 based smartphone ever made. It’s slick and slim, and fits the hand like not many other devices do. Except for the stylus, the phone is very solidly built. The plastic has that cool matte finish and is made so that it doesn’t slips easily from a hand.

As for the stylus, unfortunately I must report I hate it. Compared with the stylus of the P990i, it looks like an unfinished piece of plastic, like it was simply cut from some raw material. Still, it’s not the reason to hate the device as stylus is useful after all — it’s just an area which I would like to see improved in the future Sony Ericsson Walkman smartphones. Since I use a finger for most of the interactions with the device, this doesn’t fully counts.

Keypad

Going from the Nokia N93, at first, I hated the buttons. They are smaller and I thought I would be making typing mistakes all the time. Luckily, I was wrong — you get used to them pretty quickly. Above the buttons, there are three touch-sensitive music-dedicated controls for (from left to right) previous song, play/pause and next song.

Besides the numeric keypad, the Sony Ericsson W960i has dedicated Walkman, along with back and “C” buttons on the front; scroll wheel on the left, and volume up and down keys on the right side. Plus, there’s the small power button on the top of the device.

D-pad remains the thing to crave for on Sony Ericsson smartphones, especially for those looking to play a game on their mobile. In addition, I would love to see the dedicated home button. Exiting the Walkman player is a real pain, as I have to press the back button for at least three times.

The screen

The screen is now merged with the phone’s surface allowing you to freely use your fingers — something that I personally see as a direct response to the “iPhone challenge.” But let’s not forget that at this stage Symbian with UIQ3 software platform is a more flexible and expandable platform.

Back to the screen. Sony Ericsson uses the same 2.6″ on P1i and W960i, which can display up to 262,144 colors (why not 16 million?) in the QVGA (240×320) resolution. I was asked how it’s protected and I can report there’s some kind of plastic layer on top of the display. So far, I haven’t experienced any problems with the screen. It does get dirty, but you can easily clean it with the Walkman-branded casing, which is also included in the box.

Camera

The device comes with a 3.2 MP camera with auto-focus. Those who have used earlier Sony Ericsson smartphones know they are quite fast when it comes to auto-focusing (compared with Nokia’s smartphones). Still, Nokia leads the pack when it comes to video recording. The Finish giant’s phones like N93, N95 and E90 have set the standards which we rarely see in other phones.

Then again, Sony Ericsson is touting the W960i as the music phone. Camera is just an addition, and for taking photos from time to time - it’s great!

Speed

Sony Ericsson uses a 220 Mhz processor with both P1i and W960i smartphones. And while it does sound slow, the device performs better than expected — and just for the record (and as I’ve already stated) I was using the Nokia N93 previously. Guess it’s the 128 MB of RAM we should thank for the solid performance.

So far, I’ve installed several Java and Symbian UIQ3 native applications and I still have to see it slowing down. I have no idea whether this has to do with the code itself, but the device is working perfectly. Not that I wouldn’t like it to run on a faster processor, but even this way - it performs great. Almost two weeks after I started using it, the W960i hasn’t blocked for a single time.

Connectivity

The Sony Ericsson W960i is a tri-band GSM/GPRS phone (900/1800/1900 Mhz), and also includes the UMTS radio (2100 Mhz). In addition, it supports stereo Bluetooth (A2DP) and WiFi wireless connectivity. No EDGE, though.

Where’s HSDPA and an accelerometer

HSDPA is not supported and the device doesn’t have the built-in accelerometer. I guess it’s the dimensions of the device and the battery life that made the Swedish-Japanese handset maker go this way. It’s still faster than the iPhone, but can’t match the download speeds of the Nokia N81, another device the W960i competes with.

As for the accelerometer, I would expect it to come on-board, especially when we know that it’s present in both K850i and W910i models. Plus, let’s not forget the W960i is competing with Apple’s handset, hence including all the things iPhone has and add some special sauce on top of it seems like an obvious move…

It’s a music-dedicated device but…

…where’s the standard 3.5mm jack? I do use stereo Bluetooth headsets, but I know many people love the idea of using standard wired headsets on their phones. To be fair, there is a cable converter included in the package, but that’s not actually the “real thing.” And yes, earlier reports were true — there are no Bluetooth headsets in the box, or at least not in my box… However, this will make the device more affordable.

Next, where’s the other speaker? The W960i has only a single speaker. Even some mid-range Nokia NSeries phones come with stereo speakers. Not to mention that we see an increasing number of Chinese phones coming with two and even more built-in speakers. And while most people actually don’t listen to music this way, it’s still a strange call Sony Ericsson has made. It doesn’t cost that much more, but provides an additional checkmarks in the device comparison table.

8 GB of Walkman love

The Walkman software is fully integrated with the device. You can reach it from the home screen — by touching it — or using the dedicated button. It’s stylish and quite straightforward. Not exactly the “iPhone like stylish,” but more than good enough. Scrap that, the W960i provides the users with the so-far-best out-of-the-box music experience on a UIQ 3 based smartphone. Plus, you have 8 GB of available space to put many of your favorite songs and take them with you, wherever you are. I know some people like the idea of exchangeable microSD/Memory Stick Micro cards/sticks, but I’m not one of them. As far as I can see, 8 gigs should keep me pretty happy for a while.

Finally, Sony Ericsson integrated its PlayNow offering with the device, allowing users to purchase mobile content — music included — while on-the-go.

Software

The retail box comes with a CD that contains the Sony Ericsson PC Suite and the Sony Ericsson Media Manager. The latter is a real pain killer, making transfer of media files to the W960i a snap. Still not the iTunes, but they’re getting there.

As for the pre-installed applications on the device, besides the standard UIQ package that includes such apps as calendar, notes, calculator, converter, alarm clock and stopwatch; and of course the Walkman app, the W960i also comes bundled with third-party applications and games like Opera Browser (yes, it can handle full HTML pages), FM Radio, QuickOffice, RSS reader, Business Card Scanner, PDF+, ExchangeActiveSync, as well as two games - QuadraPop and Vijay Singh Pro Golf 3D. Furthermore, like with other Sony Ericsson smartphones, users can get (buy) additional mobile content from the Sony Ericsson’s Application Store from the “More applications” link.

Usability

Here’s one area where much could be improved. If you haven’t used any UIQ-based smartphone, you won’t like the W960i. It’s everything but user-friendly and sometimes I even think it was made by programmers who may not be fully aware of the end-user’s needs — this is not to say that I have anything against programmers. Menus are not that logical and some things require more clicks than it’s needed on other phone. I’m not here bash UIQ as I know they work hard on these issues, but it’s important to note that first-time UIQ users may — and most probably will — experience headaches.

Final word - do I recommend it?

Yes and no!

Yes to the current UIQ smartphone owners who will find the W960i the most polished device so far. It has the best media player, enough RAM and tons of storage capacity. Alternatively, you may want to go for the business-centric Sony Ericsson P1i, which basically has everything the W960i has except for the Walkman player and 8GB of built-in memory.

On the other hand, if you’re coming from the Windows Mobile, S60 or feature phone “background,” get something else - this isn’t the thing you’re looking for. Or prepare to spend at least a week adjusting to the weirdly organized (sub)menus.

Don’t get me wrong. I love the device, but I do consider myself to be an experienced (smart)phone user. For instance, after moving from the Nokia N93 (which also has WiFi) I’m still annoyed with the fact that the W960i doesn’t prompt me which connection it should use — it connects to 3G without asking me whether it should look for WiFi networks first. In addition, I don?t like the idea of having to use the touchscreen for some common tasks. For instance, you can’t access your “Sent” messages folder without a touchscreen. But, I’m getting used to it…

At the end, it’s your call. The W960i is not a cheap device. Stefan says you should avoid buying the Nokia N81. If that’s the case, you should avoid the W960i as well. But if you like how UIQ works, go for it. There’s no better non-business UIQ phone on the market at the moment…

Again, if you have any questions please use the comments form bellow…

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Related Articles at IntoMobile:

• Sony Ericsson: Yes, you can buy the W960i now!
• Sony Ericsson W960i approved by the FCC
• Sony Ericsson W960i commercial
• Bluetooth headset removed from the Sony Ericsson W960i sales package?
• Sony Ericsson fans in UK will have to wait for the W960i till January 2008

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