Mazda, to Set Miata Ablaze in Japan

Mazda Motor Corporation earlier announced the launch of Blaze, a special edition roadster intended for the Japanese domestic market. Blaze is a lightweight, open-top sports car which has been the subject of several modifications to improve ergonomics, style and performance. Both the interior and exterior auto parts have been enhanced for a whole new driving experience. Blaze is now on sale at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan.

Blaze Edition Roadster got its name from “sparkle,” “blinding light,” and “fiery color,” and the images they suggest. Its dominant exterior, which is enhanced by special auto parts, epitomizes cutting-edge style. The forged 17-inch alloy wheels of the vehicle are produced by BBS Japan Co. Ltd., a renowned name in the manufacture of auto wheels. The wheels are accentuated with chrome finish for a regal impact. Compared to base model roadsters, Blaze wheels are lighter to improve driving performance. Blaze also uses several Mazda Miata and parts. In fact, in April next year, a new version will be equipped with Mazda’s pride – Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT).

The special edition vehicle also boasts its chrome and clear parts features. An exclusive deep wine-red body color, Radiant Ebony Mica is made exclusive to Blaze. The deep green Highland Green Mica is also added to the standard model color range. Now, there are two color choices available for this special edition Roadster.

The interior of the car boasts its sand beige genuine leather seat upholstery and door trim mated to black leather combination for the steering wheel and parking brake covers. The interior is accentuated with alloy parts to equalize the sporty appeal with its elegant charisma. Other exclusive features of the roadster include the shift boot air vent bezel and dial rings, decoration panel, and stainless steel scuff plates.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the soft-top models are 2,840,000 yen for the six-speed manual transmission version. For the six-speed automatic transmission version the MSRP is 2,870,000 yen. For the Power Retractable Hard Top models, they are priced at 3,040,000 yen for the six-speed MT version and 3,135,000 yen for the six-speed AT version.

Margaret Adams
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/mazda-to-set-miata-ablaze-in-japan-88636.html

Audi of America Inc. Announced 2008 Audi Tt Pricing (us)

Audi of America, Inc. a subsidiary of Volkswagen maker or quality automobiles and auto parts like Volkswagen Cabriolet parts has recently announced the pricing for its 2008 TT model line-up. Audi TT Coupe models will arrive in dealerships in April, while the TT Roadsters is scheduled to follow in May. The prices will range from $34,800 to $45,900 depending on the model and options.

The TT Coupe 2.0T models start at $34,800, while the 3.2 Quattro® models are priced at $41,500. The TT Roadster 2.0T models have a base price of $36,800, and 3.2 Quattro Roadsters start at $44,500. This pricing does not include a $720 destination charge. TT 3.2 models equipped with S tronic gearboxes have a base price $1,400 higher than manual transmission cars. The Coupe is priced at $42,900 while the Roadster is priced at $45,900.

Both of the TT model lines will be offered in 2.0T or 3.2 Quattro form. Aside from that, all 2.0T models will be provided with a 200hp 2.0 TFSI engine mated to a six-speed S tronic gearbox. The 3.2 Quattro models on the other hand will have a 250hp V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. Similarly a six-speed manual transmission is standard with a six-speed S tronic gearbox offered as option.

And following Audi tradition, the all-new 2008 TT is to be equipped with class-leading technology. The newest generation of Audi Space Frame® (ASF) combines both aluminum and steel to achieve lighter weight and improved weight distribution to provide better driving dynamics. The Audi magnetic ride (optional) employs the latest in suspension technology and enables drivers to choose between a smooth ride and aggressive handling.

Audi’s famous S tronic gearbox offers the performance of a manual transmission with the comfort of an automatic and provides fast shifting capabilities at 0.2 seconds per shift. As an added lure the 2008 TT will come equipped with a long list of standard luxurious and sporty features. The standard equipment that will be placed on the 2008 TT includes leather and Alcantara-covered sport seats, automatic climate control, electromechanical power steering, Audi Concert Audio system with in-dash CD changer with MP3 capability, 17” alloy wheels, keyless entry with alarm, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped flat bottom sport steering wheel.

The extensive list of optional equipments enables drivers to customize their TT model to give it a more sporting appeal. The Audi magnetic ride and 18” alloy wheels add to the TT’s sporty handling. Likewise, the S line package takes the whole concept thing a little higher by adding more aggressive front and rear styling add to it 19” alloy wheels with performance tires and special interior leather trim. An Enhanced Interior package includes Nappa leather covered seats and leather covered interior trip components. The TT Roadster models were also provided with an extra storage compartments to accommodate large cargo.

Additional options include DVD-based navigation system with two available slots for SD memory cards, Bluetooth phone preparation, Bose® premium sound with Sirius ® satellite radio, Bi-Xenon adaptive headlights, iPod interface, Audi parking system, and Baseball-optic leather interior (unfortunately available for Roadster only).

Natalie Anderson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/audi-of-america-inc-announced-2008-audi-tt-pricing-us-99380.html

Machine Skates & Hand Trucks Make Moving Heavy Goods Easy

Machines have brought the impossible into the realm of possible by enhancing and improving human functions. Using them a single human being can perform feats that are unimaginable even for ten. Take equipment like machine skates or a hand truck for instance. Using these tools a single person can move many tones of material around easily.

These tools are usually found in factories and warehouses where you will find large boxes, and packages that need to be stored or transported. Using a hand truck makes transporting heavy packages easier, and also increases the speed and efficiency, helping in getting more work done. Machine skates looks and works differently than a hand truck, and can move even heavier goods around.

Machine skates have smaller wheels than a hand truck and therefore are not suitable for uneven surfaces, but the wheels in a machine skate are made of iron alloy, and it’s slung lower than a hand truck which makes it suitable for transporting really heavy packages in a warehouse.

It’s easier to load goods on and off machine skates than a hand truck. That’s why many warehouses prefer machine skates for transporting heavy material. What you should select for your warehouse depends a lot on the kind of goods you have, and how your warehouse is organized.

If you have bulky packages that are not as heavy as they are big, it is better to get a hand truck to transport them. But if your packages are small and really heavy, machine skates will serve you better. Specially if you stack the goods on floor.

You will find many types of hand trucks in the market. Some of them have two wheels and can be used vertically, while others have 4 wheels and have a separate vertical handle. There are even foldable ones that can be used vertically or horizontally according to the need. Machine skates too are available in different designs that you must select from to suit your need.

You can get large machine skates, compact ones, with different designs of wheels and weight ratings. It’s better to make sure that you understand your need when you buy the machine skates so that you don’t end with a product you don’t need. Tell the supplier about your need and ask him what would be suitable. Do that for the hand truck too.

You will find these tools with any hardware supply chain, or you can even shop for it online. In fact you can first have a look at the machine skate photographs online, see the specs and then make an informed decision about your machine skates or hand truck purchase.

Here’s a piece of advise. Always buy the best tools, they will seem slightly expensive in the beginning, but you’re going to use them regularly, and they will need to do hard work. Bad quality machine skates and hand truck will wear out after a little while and will not give you efficient performance. Good quality material will last a lot longer and pay for itself.

For more resources about Machine Skates or even about Hand Truck please review this web page http://www.bilgroupmh.eu

Groshan Fabiola
http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/machine-skates-hand-trucks-make-moving-heavy-goods-easy-679792.html

Difference Between Walkers Rollator

Purchase of a walker or Rollator

Many people think that walkers and Rollators are the same, but in reality they are two different types of equipment. Although they are both used to help people with mobility issues with walking, the two are using different means. This article explains what factors should go into a decision to purchase an adult or a walker rollator.

Adult Walker

This walker is built with aluminum supports. Its main feature is that when walking with her, it must be lifted, advanced, and then return to order for its effective functioning. It does not move as easily as a rollator, but many models have wheels that move much more easily. Compared with a rollator it offers better support and less expensive, but cannot be moved as efficiently.

Types

Adult walkers generally come in two types, wheel or no wheel. The wheel has several small “caster” wheels at the bottom of it, thus dragging the walker when it is moved by the user, making it easier route.

Specialty

There are specially walkers that exist for. For people who have difficulty walking with a regular walker there are rolls of security and post-rolls earlier. These rollers are specially designed to help people who have foot diseases or conditions that affect where they post on foot. These walkers help keep the balance the individual and walking in a straight line.

Types Rollator

A rollator is very similar also a walker, but a rollator usually has additional features like a seat, wheels, basket, brakes, etc. The main advantage of a rollator on a walker is the ease of use. Walkers are ergonomically designed to run smooth movement, allowing the user to drag on the ground without effort. Rollators are connected since they generally come in variety of colors and are designed elegant look and fashion.

3 wheels Rollators

Rollator three wheels are generally smaller and can maneuver better around tight space. Some people believe they improve the aesthetics compared to 4-wheel Rollators and are more stylish (only an opinion). It usually comes with a small pocket attached to the front which can carry personal items.

4-wheel Rollators

The four-wheel rollator is larger and as its name suggests has four wheels that allows greater stability along. If you live in a rural, agricultural, or a place where there is a lot of grass and dirt, the stability of four-wheeled walker can be a plus. The 4-wheel Rollator generally has a basket that is larger and can carry more items and it was generally a seat that is attached to this issue.

Light Weight

What weighs something is always a factor when you have to push long distances. If you plan to use your rollator much maybe buying a “lightweight” rollator will appeal to you. A “light” rollator is designed to minimize weight, which is usually done using the light weight alloy steel and miniaturise parts of the rollator. These Rollators generally weigh between 25% – 60% lighter than their counterparts there. The lighter is an easier it is to grow and transport. If you or a loved one has problems with carrying large weight, fatigue or just want a walker that small and easily portable as a “lightweight rollator you.

Walker or Rollator: The choice

If you buy a walker or a rollator? Well it may depend on your personal situation. They are generally less expensive than Rollators, and you can also get the wheel option that can make traffic a lot smoother. But if you have fatigue or force any questions, want a style walking aid, transporting a large number of objects, want the opportunity to sit anywhere anytime, or simply want a best lap and then a rollator would be your best option.

Manseo Sharma
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/difference-between-walkers-rollator-695847.html

Custom Wheels And Rims – What You Need To Know Before Purchasing

After the 1900’s, the market for car wheels and rims has suddenly expanded. Today, most people want to modify their vehicle with the latest set of wheels. Wheels which are modified from the standard vehicle manufacturer wheels are called custom wheels. The overall look of the vehicle is changed as soon as you install a set of the trendiest custom wheels or rims. However, it is important that you choose the most appropriate wheels or rims for your vehicle.

Types of Custom Wheels and Rims

There are several kinds of wheels and rims available in the market. But you will have to make a choice keeping your vehicle in mind. You can get everything from spoke alloy wheels to the more superior chrome spinning wheels, which are the latest trend.

Appearance: In the case where you are just concerned about the appearance, then choose wheels and rims that suit your vehicle and add style to it. However if speed is your passion, then go for alloy wheels which are much lighter than chrome wheels. Alloy wheels will provide your vehicle with the desired performance. Alloys are best suited for city traffic, as they help to avoid overheating of the brake system.

To give sporty looks to your vehicle, install larger wheels and rims. You must choose the wheels that are matched with the bolt pattern of your vehicle. You should ask the salesperson to help you choose the right ones. This is essential because incorrectly installed custom wheels will create problems with the handling of your vehicle.

Pricing: With lower priced wheels, you will have to compromise on quality. If you want to purchase the most stylish and trendy custom wheels in a good quality for your vehicle, then it will cost you slightly more. Wheels and rims at online stores are slightly cheaper than at brick and mortar stores. However, the advantage of buying from a physical store is that you can see and check your wheels and rims before purchasing.

The most common way car enthusiasts modify their vehicles is to install a set of custom wheels. Automobile speed lovers, who are well aware of the performance benefits, opt for lighter, stronger or larger wheels. On the other hand, those who give preference to the looks of their vehicle opt for larger wheels, usually with a distinctive appearance.

There is no denying the fact that custom wheels and rims provide a unique and trendy look to your vehicle. However, it is also very important that the performance of your vehicle is not affected due to selecting the wrong set of wheels.

Stefan Rockhaus
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/custom-wheels-and-rims-what-you-need-to-know-before-purchasing-64396.html

Mercedes Wheels – Give a Sportier Look by Changing Wheels

Mercedes name is enough for knowing its quality and class. Mercedes are one of the most stylish and comfortable car makers of the world. There is no comparison with a Mercedes. In today world we know that nobody is perfect but we can proudly say that Mercedes cars are perfect vehicles on this earth. Mercedes is a joint venture of style, luxury and power. Mercedes car’s look is just superb but it is said that you can always add something to a thing.

What if you want to add some sportier features in your car? The easiest and the most effective change which can be done is the change of wheels. Mercedes wheels are perfect but changing it with some aftermarket Mercedes wheels can give it a sporty look. In aftermarket Mercedes wheels you will find lots of options to choose the perfect one which will suit in your vehicle perfectly. Some of the most popular Mercedes wheels are:

- Mercedes 16 Inch Chrome AMG Steel Wheel –Type AMG16 — $1,340 – $1,350.

- Mercedes 17 Inch Chrome Wheels – Type MBZ-423-CHR — $940 – $950.

- Mercedes 18 Inch Gunmetal Wheels – Type MBZ-530-18 — $1,190 – $1,200.

- Mercedes 19 Inch Chrome AMG Style Wheels – Type MBZ-550 — $1,340 – $1,350.

- Mercedes 19 Inch Silver Wheels – Type MBZ-570-19 — $1,090 – $1,100.

- Mercedes 19 Inch Chrome Wheels – Type CHR-3W — $1,330 – $1,340.

All these aftermarket Mercedes wheels are just made to give extra sporty look and a powerful drive. It is very important to choose the perfect Mercedes wheels for your Mercedes car. You may have experienced that many times when you are going on your side and then suddenly a car passes and you think that his wheels are better than yours. Stuffs like these always happen. But if you want to avoid it, you can do it just by taking your time while choosing the Mercedes wheels for your own vehicle. There is nothing in this world which is ugly, the only thing is needed a final touch. You can make your car’s look ultimate by just choosing the perfect wheels.

Mercedes wheels are very strong and durable because of the metals used for making them are of high quality. The overall strength of the wheels is very high and the reason behind this is the use of alloy materials which are enhanced with the stainless steel. One more thing of this wheel is important and that is its fittings, which are perfect. These wheels are made with so much perfection and precisely that there is no chance that it will not make up. Before launching these Mercedes wheels in the market, they are checked and tested hundreds of times. So no one should worry about the quality of the Mercedes wheels. Some more popular Mercedes wheels are:

- Mercedes 19 Inch Gunmetal Wheels – Euro 23 — $1,290 – $1,300.

- Mercedes 18 Inch Chrome Wheels – Type MBZ-580 — $1,040 – $1,050.

- Mercedes 18 Inch Silver Wheels – Type Monarch Mesh — $1,110 – $1,130.

Mercedes are high standard cars and they deserve best and high standard wheels also. These Mercedes wheels should be made up of high quality alloys and metals. It is not necessary that you should buy only expensive wheels. Who tells that expensive things are only good? These aftermarket Mercedes wheels are not expensive even then they are high standard wheels. These Mercedes wheels are cheaper than factory made wheels because the factory made wheels gets expensive advertising cost and this makes them expensive. And it is not a wise action to buy the same thing by giving extra money only for name and brand.

abicarsy
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/mercedes-wheels-give-a-sportier-look-by-changing-wheels-739372.html

A Closer Look at the All-new 2008 Infiniti G37

The 2008 Infiniti G37, Nissan’s newest sports coupe that is expected to replace the Infiniti G35 will make its world premiere at the upcoming 2007 New York International Auto Show early this April. Available in three model trims – G37 Coupe, G37 Coupe Journey, and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT, the sports coupe will roll out in Infiniti dealer showrooms all over the United States beginning in August.

According to Nissan’s Infiniti division, “The all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 Coupe combines the exhilarating performance, stunning styling and modern, sporty interior of the original Infiniti G Coupe, accelerating each to new levels.”

The all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 sports coupe features an all-new exterior body styling and design with aggressive appearance highlighted by flowing front fender lines, wave-from hood, double arch grille, and integrated fog lamps. Other key exterior features found on the all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 include standard Infiniti signature L-shape High Intensity Discharge (HID) bi-xenon headlights; available Adaptive Front lighting System (AFS); LED Infiniti G-style taillights; standard rear underbody air diffusers; large diameter dual exhaust; available sliding glass moon roof; available heated outside mirrors; and standard 5-spoke 18-inch aluminium alloy wheels with 225/50VR18 all-season tires. In addition, Infiniti also offers an optional exterior package for the all-new G37 Coupe called the Sport Package. This package includes unique front fascia, side sills, and rear spoiler for the Infiniti G37 Coupe Journey and G37 Coupe Sport 6MT. New 10-spoke 19-inch front wheels and 225/45WR19 front all season tires and 19-inch rear wheels with 245/40WR19 rear tires are available as an optional feature.

Inside, the all-new 2008 Infiniti G37 is equipped with a host of standard interior features and other luxurious amenities for customers. The Infiniti G37 comes with standard interior features including Infiniti signature “double-wave” instrument panel and Infiniti-signature analogue clock; full-length centre console with a leather and aluminium-clad shifter; 7.0-inch color monitor display, leather-appointed seats; 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and 4-way power-adjustable front passenger’s seat; and hand-stitched leather-wrapped steering wheel with steering wheel-mounted audio and cruise control switches. Moreover, the new G37 Coupe is equipped with quality infotainment systems including premium audio system featuring in-dash CD player with Radio Data System (RDS), auxiliary audio input, MP3 playback capability, 6 speakers, and XM Satellite Radio.

Optional interior amenities include magnesium automatic transmission paddle shifters, RearView monitor, and Sport Package with sport-styled seats with thigh extensions, driver’s power adjustable torso, thigh bolsters, and aluminum pedals, Infiniti Navigation System with available XM NavTraffic real-time traffic information, voice activation for navigation, and audio and HVAC functions, 11-speaker Infiniti “Studio on Wheels” audio system with 24-bit Burr Brown DAC, 3-way door speaker arrays with 10-inch woofers; and Bluetooth® hands-free phone system.

For Infiniti luxury cars, safety for occupants is the main priority. The new G37 features a wide array of standard safety components like the Infiniti Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage front supplemental air bags with seat belt sensors and occupant classification sensor; front-seat and roof-mounted front and rear curtain side-impact supplemental air bags; front seat belt adjustable upper anchors with pretensioners and load limiters; and front seat active head restraints. In addition, the G37 Coupe’s body is made of Zone Body construction with energy-dispersing side structure to further ensure driving safety.

Infiniti offers a single power plant for the new G37 Coupe. All models are equipped with a new 3.7-litre VVEL 24-valve DOHC V6 engine under the hood delivering 330 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of peak torque, with Variable Valve Event and Lift (VVEL) intake camshafts. The engine is combined with either a 5-speed automatic transmission with Downshift Rev Matching and quick-shift DS mode and ASC (Adaptive Shift Control), or a 6-speed manual transmission. The G37 Coupe also features quality clutch parts like its competitor, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class models with Mercedes pressure plates.

Dwyane Thomas
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/a-closer-look-at-the-allnew-2008-infiniti-g37-123786.html

Information You Should Know Before Getting Your Model Train Track

Most people will say when getting started as a model railroader, the most important piece to buy is the train itself. While this is an important component to be sure, it does you no good without the right model train track to put it on. Buying the right track will mean the difference between having something that is fun and something, which simply won’t work. Factors to keep in mind when buying model train track is the size of the train, what you will be doing with the train, where the train will be, and the realism of the tracks.

Buying the right size model train track will allow you to be able to properly send your train around the track with ease. Keep in mind; the wheels of the train should fit snugly against the track in order to be able to roll correctly. The general rule is to match the scale of the train with the gauge of the track. An example of this would be to have a G scale train on a G scale track. While there might be slight variations in the actual size of the trains, the wheels should be standardized enough to be able to fit on the track. Buying the wrong size track will make it impossible to operate your train correctly.

Some model railroaders believe the only way to properly display a model train is to lay the track themselves. There are model train track kits available, which will include rails, wood ties and railroad spikes. This will allow you to lay your own track as you see fit and have a high degree of realism in your tracks. The biggest factor to keep in mind is the process involved in laying your own track. There is a lot of precision required in laying your own track if you do not want for the train itself to jump track while it is speeding around the track. This is recommended only for professionals, or train clubs.

Where you will be running your train is something you will want to keep in mind when buying your model train track. If you are running a G scale train outside, you will want to avoid an aluminum track. While the track is inexpensive, it is highly vulnerable to corrosion and unsuitable for use on an outdoor track. You are better suited to use the more popular nickel-silver alloy as your track. Being the most popular type of track, you should be able to find it most anywhere you will be able to find model train supplies. Another good suggestion for an outdoor track is stainless steel. While it is more expensive, it resists rusts and corrosion very well.

Those looking for a model train track, which will truly represent how the track would look in real life, should consider using flexitrack. This track is able to be positioned into almost any position you need in order to create a more realistic appearance for your layout. You can create curves, which will be very gentle, or extreme in nature as the choice is yours to make. The track comes in standardized lengths, but snaps together with other lengths giving you more control over how long your final product will be.

David Blackburn

Volkswagen’s New R32 to Debut at the Chicago Auto Show

In Chicago: Volkswagen of America, Inc. has recently announced the return of its motorsports-inspired R32 that will be presented at the 2007 Chicago Auto Show. It should be noted that the R32 was first introduced in the year 2004 to an enthusiastic crowd of car aficionados. This vehicle was said to deliver the ultimate in Volkswagen sports performance with its dynamic handling, and refined road manners.

The R32 is powered by a 3.2 L naturally aspirated 15-degree narrow angle V6 engine that delivers 250 horsepower and 236 ft-lbs of potent torque. And with such power the R32 is undeniably a muscle car. The standard 4MOTION all-wheel-drive system of the R32 transfers at least seventy-five percent of available torque to the rear wheels. Volkswagen’s popular DSG® transmission equipped in the R32 allows for seamless gear changes and sudden acceleration from 0 to 60mph in a matter of 6.4 seconds.

Moreover, the R32’s fully independent, multi-link rear suspension that sits wider and lower than its GTI sibling gives this vehicle a meaner and authoritative look inside and out. Its twin chrome exhausts, 18 inch alloy wheels, Bi-Xenon headlights, uniquely shaped front grille and badging distinguished it from the anything else that moves on the road. Its rear roof spoiler and deep front spoiler, coupled with body-colored bumpers, side bump strips, door handles, especially design Volkswagen muffler and door mirrors, add to the streamlined, sporty look of the vehicle.

Aside from its remarkable exterior, the R32 also boasts a long list of safety features which include Electronic Stabilization Program that reacts to critical driving situations in a matter of milliseconds by controlling the speed of individual wheels and a confidence inspiring Anti-Lock Braking System that helps to prevent wheels from locking under heavy braking. Its Brake Assist also helps in boosting brake pressure especially during emergency braking situations. And that’s not all! The state-of-the-art Electronic Brake-pressure Distribution of the R32 automatically varies the amount of force applied to its brakes depending on the road and driving conditions.

The inside of the R32 takes its inspiration from racing with its aluminum-look foot pedals and deep front sports seats. It also showcased other features such as the automatic climate control or Climatronic™, ten speaker premium CD stereo system, rain sensing wipers, automatic dimming interior rear-view mirror, heatable front seats and heated washer nozzles, anti-theft alarm, cruise control and trip computer are standard luxuries that complement this performance-driven victor.

Natalie Anderson
http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/volkswagens-new-r32-to-debut-at-the-chicago-auto-show-103133.html

The Jeep Patriot – From Action Man to School Run…

Most young males of my generation grew up with the identical toys to one another. There was the obligatory He Man doll (I mean Action Figure of course), Transformer merchandise and Star Wars figurines. There was, however, one toy that inspired almost fanatical devotion rivalled only by the opposite sex’s love for Barbie. The toy in question was of course Action Man.

Some of my peers enjoyed the sheer wealth of Action Man’s weaponry, some were amazed by his gadgets and gizmos. One rather strange boy was even entranced by the feel of his short afro-like hair. For me, the attraction was the vehicle that Action Man drove; a huge Jeep.

It wasn’t any ordinary Jeep either. It had huge rubber wheels, some kind of roll-cage structure and was adorned with rocket-launchers and other projectile weaponry. Much to my chagrin, as I grew older I realised vehicles of this nature were merely the stuff of fantasy. However, the enduring image of the Jeep has stuck with me since childhood.

The Jeep Patriot is the model in question today and it is very far removed from the image I had of this vehicle as a child. Gone is the roll-cage and windowless vehicle of my youth (there are also no weapons to be seen). What is evident is a disturbing amount of…well…class. These days the Jeep seems to fit more in with the middle-class, aspirational lifestyle rather than the rough and ready all-terrain conquering behemoths that these vehicles were initially designed for.

The phenomenon of the 4X4 school-run has annoyed a large proportion of the population, purely because the whole exercise seems incredibly wasteful. Picture the scene, a huge gas-guzzling MPV with just a mother and a small child in, coughing out CO2 all over the place. Now multiply this effect by 500, slam it down in a traffic jam and you have the average school run at just one of the thousands of schools in this country. It’s no wonder people get annoyed. But let’s not get bogged down in semantics; we should judge these 4X4s on their own merits.

As I alluded to earlier, the Jeep Patriot is a much classier affair than the Jeep name suggests. It seems to have had all those rough edges smoothed down to make it more palatable for modern tastes, but has lost none of the vim and vigour associated with the Jeep brand. In fact, I was not expecting such a sprightly ride from a vehicle of the Jeep’s sheer magnitude.

Amongst the Jeep Patriot’s arsenal of gadgetry is ABS, Electronic Roll Mitigation, Panic Brake Assist, Side Curtain Airbags, alloy wheels, Halogen headlamps and Air Conditioning. This would suggest that this particular Jeep is going to be a comfortable and safe vehicle to drive. The handling is accurate and feels light for the size of the Patriot. Combine this with the eager engine which manages pretty much any off-road task you can throw it at with considerably more grace than many of its direct competitors.

In summary, the Jeep deserves to be used off-road as this is what it is primarily designed for. The tragedy is that it will spend the majority of its working life sat either in car jams waiting to drop off the kids, or parked in a supermarket car park waiting to be filled with Pâté foie gras and exotic coffee blends. Justice can only be served if you break through a farmer’s fence and razz the Patriot around like a banshee. Then (and only then) will you witness what this machine is truly capable of.

Pete J Ridgard