Ford EcoSport SUV Gets a Luxe Redesign

In recent weeks, Toyota made a decision to recommit to its Lexus CT200h sport hybrid. At the same time, GM is having significant success with the small but luxurious Buick Verano sedan and Buick Encore hatchback. So, is the age of the premium compact is, finally, upon us? If this luxe-minded Ford EcoSport built by DC designs is any indication, the answer is “yes” … and fans of Ford’s overseas EcoSport are ready to have the blue oval to get in on the action!

Based on Ford’s global Fiesta platform and offered with markets like the UK in mind, the 2014 Ford EcoSport could find its way to America if the company decides there’s room for a premium crossover to slot below the US-market Ford Escape. DC Design’s vision of the EcoSport, however, paints the small SUV/crossover as a sort of urban limo- dressing up the interior with soft woods and leathers. In the back, the standard bench seat setup has been ditched in favor of more isolated “captain’s chairs, divided by a center console that houses buttons and dials for the HVAC and audio systems – features that have more in common with Mercedes’ S Class than, say, a Ford Focus.

On the outside, DC Designs changed the standard Ford EcoSport fascias to include an oversized grille, a redesigned front bumper, modified headlights, and aggressive-looking LED daytime running lights.

There’s no word on what DC has in mind for pricing on the off-chance that you want to reproduce this show car for yourself, but I’m guessing that, if you have to ask …

Source | Photos: DC Design, via AutoExpress UK.

Top Four Fuel Efficient Hybrid Vehicles for 2011

The prices of the gas are going up like never before and there is no sign of it slowing down in near future. Does that mean you should panic and go all out to buy a hybrid car? If the prices are nearing to $4 a gallon, people do look out for alternatives and want to get rid of their gas guzzlers. Well, if you are planning to go for a hybrid or electric car then do so for its environmental benefits but not for saving the money on gas prices as it might not save you any of it.

Let us have a look at the top 5 fuel efficient cars in 2011 that you should go for buying not just for money but its environmental benefits.

1. 2011 Toyota Prius 1.8L 4-cyl. Hybrid engine, Automatic
2011 Toyota Prius is going to give you best mileage. According to EPA estimates 2011 prius is going to give you an impressive 51 mpg for city drive, 48 mpg for highway and 50 mpg for combined.

2011 Prius has everything you want in a car from great fuel economy, competitive price, lots of add on features to hatchback utility. The new Prius is better than its previous models where its aerodynamic drag is reduced and looks sleek and sporty. The new version gives more power and better fuel economy in addition to better suspension and improved steering. Look out for the plug in version for the car in near future as Toyota is facing tough competition from Nissan Leaf and Chevrolet Volt, the best future competitor for Prius.

2. 2011 Lexus CT 200h
As per the estimates by EPA 2011 Lexus CT 200h is going to give 43 mpg for city drive, 42 mpg for highway and 40 mpg for combined.

2011 Lexus CT 200h has more to offer then just better fuel efficiency. The car has 1.8 L 4 cylinder engine, with 650V electric motor system which together gives 134 HP. The car is stylish and is fun to drive with lots of refinements. In addition you would get good and comfortable seats, a very impressive cargo space and a versatile layout.

3. 2011 Honda Civic Hybrid
As per the estimates by EPA 2011 Lexus CT 200h is going to give 40 mpg for city drive, 43 mpg for highway and 41 mpg for combined.

2011 Honda Civic Hybrid is very similar to Toyota Prius when it comes to looks and mechanically very similar to Honda Civic Sedan. In spite of its similarity the very efficient Integrated Motor Assist hybrid system works great in boosting its fuel economy to impressive levels. The car has 1.3 L, 4 cylinder engine which gives 93HP which is assisted by 20HP electric motor and a pack of batteries located in the rear of the car.

4. 2011 Honda Insight Hybrid
According to EPA estimates 2011 Honda Insight is going to give you an impressive 40 mpg for city drive, 41 mpg for highway and 43 mpg for combined.

2011 Honda Insight Hybrid is a mix of Honda Fit’s front end, Honda Civic Hybrid’s Integrated Motor Assist which makes it a mild hybrid car. It has 1.3 L, 4 cylinder VTEC engine assisted by electric motor system. Together they make 98HP which gives 123 pound-feet of torque.

Source: Newcarpark