Review Car

The Good 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon 2.4-liter DOHC Voice Command for 2011 Acura TSX Sportwagon can select songs from an iPod or hard drive of the car and phone numbers by name. The cart body is very convenient.

Bad: five-speed automatic transmission, and Caterpillar is only average.

Bottom line: 2011 Acura TSX Sportwagon offers a very useful body and a cabin suite modern technology, but the transmission can not take advantage of recent innovations in terms of efficiency.

Review 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon 2.4-liter DOHC

Photo Gallery 2011 Acura TSX Sport Wagon 2.4-liter DOHC

Reporters like motor cars because they mix with sports sedan handling a practical interior space of an SUV. It comes as a surprise to us that there are no carts available. But Acura has just increased the number by one of its 2011 TSX Sportwagon.

As the model name suggests, this car is based on the Acura TSX sedan with the same engine and cabin technology. But Acura has added to the cart format line model, with its five-seat capacity, but the addition of a spacious luggage compartment. Fold the rear seats, ... Expand full review

625 kW / 850 hp (838 bhp) of power and 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) of torque in the wagon: The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo based on the Mercedes E 63 AMG celebrates its world premiere at the 2013 ESSEN MOTOR SHOW and in tandem with the BRABUS version of the CLS 63 AMG Shooting Brake becomes the world’s most powerful street-legal all-wheel-drive wagon. 

Powered by the most powerful BRABUS engine to date, the new 850 6.0 Biturbo V8 high-capacity engine, the five-door supercar delivers superlative dynamics: As a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive model the wagon from BRABUS sprints to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.1 seconds. Top speed is limited electronically to 300 km/h (186 mph) to protect the tires.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo, which is of course also available as a sedan, impresses not only with superior performance, but also with its sporty-elegant BRABUS aerodynamic-enhancement kit, tailor-made BRABUS Monoblock wheels with diameters of 19 or 20 inches, and its BRABUS fine leather interior tailored to the individual customer’s preferences.

The turbocharged eight-cylinder engine in the AMG E 63 serves as the perfect basis for professional engine tuning. BRABUS relies on the tried and proven concept of increasing displacement for the new top-of-the-line engine. To increase the displacement of the four-valve engine from standard 5,461 cc to 5,912 cc (333 to 361 cubic in.) the BRABUS high-tech engine-building shop increases cylinder bore to 99 millimeters (3.89 in.) and installs forged pistons tailor-made to the new specs. A precision-balanced billet custom crankshaft with a stroke of 96 instead of the standard 90.5 millimeters (3.77 instead of 3.52 in.) in conjunction with eight custom billet piston rods completes the displacement increase. In addition, both cylinder heads are optimized for improved mixture flow.

Additional performance potential lies in the engine peripherals: The production turbos are replaced by two BRABUS turbos with a larger compressor unit and special exhaust manifolds. To optimize the air supply, the BRABUS engine specialists designed the carbon-fiber BRABUS 850 intake module, which includes a larger air filter box with enlarged intake cross section. For an optimal supply of fresh air the hood has an integrated air duct, which draws cool air via generously dimensioned air tube from an aperture in the front fascia to optimize power yield of the engine.

To lower the charge-air temperature and thus positively influence power delivery, BRABUS fits the intake and charge-air tubes with special "Gold Heat Reflection" sheathing.

The discharge of exhaust gases is optimized with high-performance catalysts and a BRABUS stainless-steel sport exhaust with controlled butterfly valve. The driver can choose between a throaty V8 exhaust note in “Sport” mode and a subtle whisper in “Coming Home” mode at the push of a button. The two ceramic-coated design tailpipes with cast BRABUS logo on either side of the BRABUS diffuser make the exhaust system also a visual treat. 

The perfect coordination of all high-performance components is ensured by means of special mapping for the electronic engine management system. This creates an optimal symbiosis of maximum performance, perfect drivability and eco-friendly emissions complying with strict EURO VI emissions standards. The high-tech lubricants for the entire powertrain are supplied by technology partner MOTUL.

The new high-capacity engine is the most powerful BRABUS to date: The rated power output of 625 kW / 850 hp (838 bhp) at a low 5,400 rpm and the enormous peak torque of 1,450 Nm (1,069 lb-ft) between 2,500 and 4,500 rpm are new benchmarks for high-performance automobiles based on Mercedes-Benz. In the vehicle peak torque is electronically limited to 1,150 Nm (848 lb-ft) in the interest of the longevity of the powertrain. Of course this high-performance engine is also backed by the one-of-a-kind BRABUS Tuning Warranty of three years, up to 100,000 kilometers/62,000 miles (see BRABUS Warranty Terms and Conditions, updated July 2013).

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo high-performance engine can be installed in a rear-wheel-drive or 4MATIC all-wheel-drive E 63. Due to the better traction the four-wheel-drive version in particular delivers acceleration figures only attained by a very few super sports cars or super sports bikes: From rest the wagon reaches a speed of 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 3.1 seconds. Due to the tires the top speed of the wagon has to be limited to 300 km/h (186 mph). The lower rear-axle load of the sedan allows a top speed of up to 350 km/h (217 mph) with high-performance tires, depending on the final-drive ratio and the programming of the BRABUS Vmax unit.

BRABUS also offers three other power levels without a displacement increase for the current E 63 AMG models. They range from 456 kW / 620 hp (611 bhp) and 478 kW / 650 hp (640 bhp) to 537 kW / 730 hp (720 bhp) in the BRABUS B63S-730 version.

To further optimize handling stability, the BRABUS designers developed lightweight, high-strength carbon-fiber bodywork components in the wind tunnel. 

The front spoiler lip, which attaches to the production bumper of the E 63 and also fits the sedan, reduces negative lift on the front axle at high speeds while lending the vehicle an even more distinctive nose. The BRABUS diffuser insert provides the perfect backdrop for the two dual tailpipes of the BRABUS sport exhaust. 

BRABUS offers tailor-made tire/wheel combinations for the E 63 AMG that match the designer outfit. The largest version features one-piece BRABUS Monoblock F or R wheels in size 9.5Jx20 with tires in size 255/30 ZR 20 on the front axle and size 295/25 ZR 20 tires in the rear. There is also a version that features BRABUS Monobock R "Platinum Edition" forged wheels in sizes 9Jx20 in front and 10.5Jx20 at the rear. The matching high-performance tires are supplied by BRABUS technology partners Continental, Pirelli and YOKOHAMA. 

The company upholstery shop crafts BRABUS fine leather interiors from especially soft and breathable BRABUS Mastik leather and Alcantara in any desired color to customer specifications. 

Particularly ergonomic BRABUS aluminum shift paddles and BRABUS RACE pedals add sporty highlights.

The BRABUS 850 6.0 Biturbo can be ordered as a complete car. Alternatively BRABUS will convert any current Mercedes E 63 AMG completely or in stages to this level.

The all-new Ford Mondeo leverages innovative driver assist technologies, an advanced chassis structure, and high quality interior to deliver superior comfort and refinement.

Mondeo introduces in Europe Ford’s Multi-Contour Seats with unique Active Motion massage function, and new integral link rear suspension for improved ride comfort and interior noise reductions. Mondeo also offers Ford’s new SYNC 2 voice control connectivity system with 8-inch touchscreen for easy operation of phone, entertainment, climate and navigation systems. 

Technologies including Ford’s first adaptive LED headlamps in Europe and Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking contribute to a simplified driving experience.

“The new all-new Mondeo uses Ford’s latest innovation and technologies to deliver the most refined and user-friendly Mondeo driving experience yet,” said Ulrich Koesters, vehicle line director, Ford of Europe. “From systems that guide drivers hands-free out of parking spaces at the start of journeys to seats that deflate to allow easy exit at the end, the Mondeo is focused on the occupant from start to finish.”

Ford Multi-Contour Seats with Active Motion massage function are designed to reduce muscle fatigue for front seat occupants, particularly during longer journeys.

The 10-way adjustable seats also incorporate heating and cooling features, and use a system of 11 cushions to deliver an unobtrusive massaging effect for thighs, bottom and lower back.

Fast-responding nano-valve technology uses memory-shape metal wires the width of a human hair to control airflow in and out of individual cushions and provide the massage effect, or tailored support. The seat-base bolsters even deflate when the doors are opened for easier exit.

A team including two medical doctors developed Ford Multi-Contour Seat technology to deliver optimal performance using advanced techniques including pressure mapping, ultra-sonic posture monitoring for viewing occupant spine movement when seated, and electromyography that measures the small electrical impulses created by muscle movement.

“Mondeo will reduce muscle fatigue, aches and pains for both the driver and front passenger by keeping muscles and blood vessels stimulated with the unique wave motion,” said Jeroen Lem, research engineer, vehicle interior technology, Ford of Europe. “The advanced system monitors pressure in the individual cushions to feel like a single roller subtly stretching the back, and two intensity settings can be selected from the central touchscreen.”

All-new Mondeo’s adaptive LED headlamps combine the daylight-mimicking light clarity of full-LED headlamps with Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System, which adjusts the headlight beam angle and intensity to match driving environment. The system can choose one of seven settings according to vehicle speed, ambient light conditions, steering angle, distance to the vehicle in front and windscreen wiper activation.

The all-new Mondeo will feature an advanced version of Active Park Assist featuring Perpendicular Parking, which enables drivers to detect suitably-sized parallel parking spaces and reverse hands-free into spaces parallel to the road and side-to-side with other cars.

This advanced parking feature will be supported by both Park-Out Assist, which helps drivers to exit parallel parking spaces; and Side Parking Aid, which delivers an on-screen visual representation and audible warning of obstacles to the sides of the vehicles, as well as to the front and rear.

The SYNC 2 system offered by Mondeo enables drivers to control key in-car systems using simple, natural voice commands and a high-resolution 8-inch colour touch screen. Connectivity is delivered via Bluetooth, USB and SD card ports.

Simply pushing the voice control button and saying “I’m hungry” will bring up a list of local restaurants, and the MICHELIN guide can help drivers choose where to eat. SYNC 2 will then connect users by phone to the restaurant to book a table and guide them there.

Entering a navigation address is also simplified. Rather than reciting the address in stages, users can say the full address at once, and can select music from a connected MP3 device by asking SYNC 2 to play an artist or track. Cover art is also displayed on screen with compatible players. 

Customers can place hands-free phone calls with the command “Call ”, without first having to give the command “Phone”, while the system is in audio, navigation or another mode.

SYNC 2 also features Ford’s Emergency Assistance, which directly connects the vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident, in the correct language for the region.

“We have developed SYNC 2 so it is simple and intuitive for drivers to use, and it seamlessly switches between touch screen and voice commands,” said Christof Kellerwessel, chief engineer, Electronic and Electrical Systems Engineering, Ford of Europe. “Drivers will be able to control more in-car systems than ever before, while keeping their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel.” 

Mondeo drivers can also control interior climate using voice commands including “Max AC” to cool down quickly, or more specific commands such as “Temperature 20 degrees”.

The all-new Mondeo’s heating, ventilation and air conditioning system has been fine-tuned for quieter operation. The system also helps optimise interior comfort with automatic climate control able to maintain less than one degree variation even in extreme climates, and adaptive fans that maintain a constant airflow as vehicle speed changes. Rear cabin occupants benefit from dedicated air-vents.

In addition, all-new Mondeo features an air-quality sensor that automatically switches on air recirculation when pollution is detected, and a humidity sensor that enables pre-emptive measures against flash-fogging of window interiors. Cooling from 55 degrees C to 18 degrees C in 15 minutes is best-in-class.

The first model for Europe to be built on Ford’s new global CD-segment platform, the all-new Mondeo will debut Ford’s new integral link rear suspension configuration for improved refinement alongside more dynamic performance. 

The new suspension design delivers the compliance required for greater comfort, while retaining lateral stiffness for enhanced steering and handling. It also allows the wheel to move rearwards on impact with bumps. This delivers improved impact absorption for a smoother ride and reduced noise levels. Self-levelling rear suspension is offered for the wagon model, maintaining optimal ride height for comfort and handling regardless of load. 

Integral link rear suspension contributes to road noise reductions of around 3 decibels in the rear and 2 decibels in the front, supported by additional sound deadening material within the underbody shields, wheel arch liners and front and rear doors to block tyre noise. The number of holes within the all-new Mondeo body shell also has been reduced to minimise noise transfer.

Wind noise is reduced to levels previously only experienced in the premium segment through optimised window pillar and door mirror shape, enhanced door and window seals, and improved interior noise absorption. A wind noise level of 21.1 sone – a metric for loudness – is an 8 per cent improvement over the previous generation Mondeo. The thickness of the rear window glass is increased by 0.4 millimetres, helping reduce passing traffic noise for rear seat passengers.

More seals have been added between the bonnet and front wings, and the engine bay sound insulation changed from fibreglass to foam, contributing to a reduction of between 1.5 and 2 decibels for powertrain noise transmitted to the cabin.

Further fine tuning of handling and ride comfort is delivered with active systems including Torque Vectoring Control, Pull-Drift Compensation, Active Nibble Compensation, and Torque Steer Compensation.

The introduction of Electric Power Assisted Steering to Mondeo for the first time also enables steering weight to adapt and match the “comfort,” “normal” and “sport” chassis settings of Ford’s Continuous Control Damping. Drivers will notice a greater difference between the chassis characteristics delivered by the three settings.

“We’ve tuned the all-new Mondeo specifically to meet the needs of European drivers,” said Geert van Noyen, vehicle dynamics manager, Ford of Europe. “We went through five designs just for the rear suspensions bushes – with each taking two months – before we were satisfied, and also placed a lot of emphasis on tuning steering to deliver a smooth and fluid feel.”

Inside, Mondeo drivers are greeted by an optional 10-inch digital-analogue instrument cluster. The customisable colour display delivers animated notifications for features such as Lane Keeping Alert.

A sleek, wrap-around centre console design delivers a sporty, cockpit-like feel, and the centre console features a symmetrical design that is accessible to both the driver and the front seat passenger – as is the large, open flow-through storage bin in front of the gear selector.

A soft-touch instrument panel and flock-lined central front storage area and glovebox are representative of the high material quality and craftsmanship throughout. Chrome surrounds and accents also are delivered for the air-vents and soft touch controls. 

Smart-design front seats feature a thinner seat back – enabling rear seat passengers to enjoy additional legroom without sacrificing comfort for driver and front passenger. Rear cabin occupants benefit from the light airy feel offered by an optional full-length panoramic glass roof in the Mondeo wagon.

Mondeo also will enhance comfort and convenience for drivers with features including first-in-class power-adjustable, memory-equipped steering column, as well as power tailgate and heated steering wheel.

“The all-new Mondeo offers a sophisticated suite of features and technology that enhance driving, comfort and convenience like no other car in its class,” said Joe Bakaj, vice president, Product Development, Ford of Europe.