Photo Gallery: 2011 Jeep Compass facelift

Jeep has released prices of its restyled Compass compact SUV, which receives more standard equipment and a substantially higher price.

The entry-level Compass Base starts from $19,295, nearly $3,930 more than the 2010 Compass, excluding a $700 destination fee. Standard features include electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors, remote central locking, x4 electric windows, air-conditioning, roof rails, front fog lamps, cruise control, 60/40 split folding rear seats, 17” aluminium wheels, LED boot torch, and tinted glass.

New mid-spec Latitude features heated front seats, 115v auxiliary socket, leather steering wheel, and a fold-flat front passenger seat. This comes with a price-tag of $21,595, saving $255 over the 2010 Compass.

Flagship Limited trim-level has 18” aluminium wheels, 6CD autochanger, climate control, leather interior w/driver’s electrically adjustable seat, and auto-dimming rear-view mirror. The Limited will cost you $910 over the 2010 model, at $24,295.

All Compass’ are fitted with an upgraded 2.4 litre World Engine that develops 172bhp. A 2.0 litre 158bhp petrol engine is available on the base and Latitude. Excluding the entry-level model, the Compass is fitted with a CVT. A 5 speed manual is fitted elsewhere.

A host of optional extra are available, some cheaper than the 2010 Compass. These include a CVT transmission for the Base at $1,100. A satellite navigation system is offered at $685 and four-wheel drive will set you back $1,700.

• Continuously variable automatic transmission (base only): $1,100

• Four-wheel drive: $1,700

• Security Group Package: Curtain airbags, USB port, remote start, Bluetooth, alarm, auto-dimming rearview mirror: $1,195

• Sun and Sound Package: nine-speaker stereo, powered sunroof: $1,295

• Media Center Package: 30GB hard drive, touch-screen display: $640 (base, Latitude), $290 (Limited)

• Navigation System: $685

• Trail Rated Package: 140 amp alternator, four-wheel drive off-road mode, brake lock differential, engine oil cooler, fuel tank skid plate shield, full-size spare tyre, hill descent control, hill start assist, tow hooks, trailer tow wiring harness: $500 (four-wheel drive needed)

Types of Motorcycle Insurance

Motorcycle Insurance is oftentimes confusing and daunting because there is a sense that the insurance company will find some way to avoid paying in the event you are in a motorcycle accident so you may as well buy the cheapest insurance.  Nothing could be farther from the truth and nothing could be farther from the truth about what type of insurance you should buy.

The first question you ask an insurance agent is how much coverage do you think I need.  From this question the agent should be able to ask you questions that will allow him to suggest to you a dollar amount of coverage that will protect you and your family from the devastating effects of a motorcycle crash.  You need to but protection from causing harm to others so they will not be forced to sue you personally and take away all you have worked for.  However, you also need to insure yourself against others not carrying enough insurance when they cause the damage - this is called uninsured and underinsured coverage discussed elsewhere in this blog.

Kia Pro_cee'd facelift leaked

Official photos of the restyled Kia Pro_cee’d have leaked onto the web, prior to its worldwide premier at the forthcoming Geneva motor show.

While full details are scares, obvious revisions will include remodelled headlamps, front bumper, and grille. Engines will be altered too, to give lower emissions, better performance and fuel economy.

The 1.6 CRDi will now produce 128bhp (130PS), up from 89bhp (90PS), and torque has been increased from 235Nm (173lb-ft) to 255Nm (188lb-ft). Expect CO2 emissions of under 119g/km and combined fuel economy of 60mpg.