Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Convertible tops are referred to a kind of vehicle, which will be having roof that is bendable. This will be flexible enough which can be retracted and affixed whenever it's needed. Hence you can take pleasure from the weather whenever needed by retracting and folding away the Convertible top and making it has open air vehicle.

Many manufactures design their cars which will be having the feature of this flexible roof. Some of these convertibles can be detached while some it is not possible to do so. Convertible tops are hinged in fact, which will get folded away, into a gap which will be behind the rear seats, or else it will get folded in the boot of car. This flexible roof can be functioned automatically or manually with the help of hydraulic pressure or by the use of electrical connections.

To design and manufacture this convertible tops the fabric which is used are canvas or vinyl or else the usage of tough stuff like plastic, steel and aluminum. Cars which are designed in soft materials are referred as a cabrio or roadster. And one which is designed by hard materials is referred as coupe cabriolet.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

When you are about to clean your auto replacement tops, ensure that you are making use of the genuine products which has been specifically designed to take care of your Auto replacement tops.

Experts or the manufactures recommends cleaning the Auto replacement tops once in every six months. Anyhow if you are parking your car in the open air that is not in the garage then it becomes a necessity to clean them in every three months. As the car is exposed to the direct sunlight (i.e.) in the open environment the chances of dust particles getting settle in them increases.

The cleaning of the replacement tops is not carried on the way which we like. Careful steps have to be taken and followed for the well-being of tops. Make use of the other supportive equipments like soft brush, duster, towel, top cleaner, cleaner for windows, and tapes for the paint. Once you assemble all this start cleaning your replacement top but not in direct sunlight. Also ensure that you are not cleaning the top when it is too hot. Always use the cleaners which are designed for such cleaning purpose and are suitable for the replacement tops.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Auto seat covers are mostly designed to safeguard the car seats from daily corrosion. This seat covers also offer extreme comfort for the travelers and an additional style and looks to your car's interior. These seat covers are fundamentals to retain your seats everlastingly at their perfect form. They enfold the capability to hinder vicious stains from hoarding and ruination your upholstery.

To protect your seats from all the possible damages, these auto seat covers are necessary. They defend your seat covers from the daily rivals which can demolish your interior such as spilled ice cream, dropped liquids, pet hair, etc. By adopting the superior auto seat cover, you will be able to maintain the originality of your seats at its perfect condition which will still offer you the comfort feel. This are made available in a wide series of fashion, style and designs and will fit closely to the measurement of your seat. Auto seat covers offers absolute protection against vulnerability. There are many advantages of buying valuable seat covers. They are designed in such a way keeping in mind the terms of your seats and their requirements to get fixed perfectly.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Car is termed as the most priceless asset of all the time and most favored vehicle to travel around. Most car lovers design and decorate their auto interiors as similar or as they design their home. The motive being behind this is of the fact that it locates us distant from the crowd of comparable cars.

Place where lots of people squander their time and by customizing the interior from an as bit as plain to as a latest set of floor mats to a fresh pair of seats.

• Set up latest steering wheel it is one of the most favored changes which the most car owners can do. There are several brands existing in the market.


• Car owners can also restore the shift knobs and floor pedals finished from aluminum or carbon fiber.


• Restore normal seats with a new pair of sport seats, or restore with one-piece racing seats.


• Cover the base by means of the custom floor mats. There are a wide range of mats accessible that skin texture of the logo or name of the car you are modifying.


• Use Alcantara headliner to replace with the original headliner.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Convertibles are certainly an outstanding way to tour and to get pleasure from the weather. Most recent Convertible soft-tops are accessible in either vinyl or cloth fabric only. Be ensured enough that you are making use of genuine products while cleaning the convertible soft top. Genuine products means products which have been specially designed keeping in the mind the need of the convertible tops.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Auto seat covers which are of nice quality add value to your car and its interiors. It provides great comfort for both drivers and riders. It is quite common that Auto seat covers are prone to the dust particles, scratches, heat from sunlight, and other wear and tear of it. Though we use them carefully still we do some mistakes which might be out of our knowledge and cause damage to it. Purchasing a good quality of cover will protect your car seats.

So, what one should look for to obtain good quality of seat covers?

Wide range of covers is available in markets which are sold by many auto cover companies. Some companies offer you simple cover while some offer luxurious covers. Varied styles and design are available in them which differ from company to company. The quality of material been used to make them is what make differences.

Covers which are made out of genuine leather are considered as ideal and durable as it offers rich look. But it is not possible for everyone to afford this leather as they are quite costly. So the alternative covers available are simulated leather covers which are not costlier than that of original cover. The other option available is to go with the custom cover. This gives perfect fitting as they are designed according to your vehicle requirement.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Maintaining soft convertible tops of your car, at an earlier stage, keeping them clean and fairly in good condition will give long lasting looks and will last for years. Clean soft tops once in six months if it is been parked inside the garage or else clean them once in three months if it is not parked inside the garage. Some tips to be followed for their maintenance

1. Never park your car under the tree! The dust from the trees and birds sitting on trees will untidy your car' soft convertible top.


2. During waxing and polishing of top see to that you are using genuine products and it is specially designed for cleaning soft top.


3. Some supporting equipments that you will be required for cleaning are sponge or a stiffer soft brush, convertible soft top cleaner, window cleaner, painters tape and a soft towel.


4. Ensure that the soft convertible tops are not hot and never clean them in direct sunlight


5. Ensure that the tops are dried up and then you may fold them. If it is being folded earlier the chance of convertibles getting damage are high due to formation of bacteria and fungus.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Car is one of the most valuable asset without which it becomes difficult to travel. Most of us like to design auto interiors of our car as our home. The reason behind this is, it sets us apart from the crowd. We like to customize our interiors from something simple as a new set of floor mats to a new pair of seats.

Some basic interiors that you can change are:

• Install new steering wheel this is one of the best common change that a car owners can do. There are many brands available in market.


• One can replace the shift knobs and floor pedals made from aluminum or even carbon fiber.


• Replace ordinary seats with a set of sport seats, or even with one-piece racing seats.


• You can cover the floor with the help of custom floor mats. There are a wide variety of floor mats available that features the logo or name of the car you are customizing.


• You can install the stock trim with aftermarket trim. Today there are kits available in market that replaces the original trim with cooler looking materials like carbon fiber, brushed aluminum or even stainless steel.


• Replace the headliner with Alcantara (faux suede) headliner in place of the original headliner.


• You can even paint the interior plastics of your vehicle but purchase paints which is suitable for plastic.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Car the most luxuries asset which everyone feels to own and play with it are changing in the form of looks, interiors, color and much more Car lovers make it much sporty and presentable. Some change the overall looks while some make only few changes according to their choice. Most car drivers fail to give attention for their seats. They concentrate only on its looks and other interiors. Care for seats along with other accessories has to be taken.

1. Auto seat covers not only protects your seat from getting it dirt but also adds value in your car.


2. It keeps your seat dirt free and clean and protects original seats from other damaging materials.


3. It helps the seat to retain in its original shape.


4. Some commonly used materials are like


• Acrylic Fur


• Soft Leather


• Neoprene


• Cotton


• Polyester


• Velour

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

German luxury car marque Mercedes-Benz has added up a cabriolet choice to its in style E-Class range. Holders of the cabriolet adaptation will now have the facility to open and close E-Class's soft fabric roof in just 20 seconds - even while driving at a speed of 25mph.

And not like other cabriolets, the E-Class Cabriolet is a drop-top that Mercedes-Benz wishes its owners to sense that they now be able to go on a drive all year long. To this end, the well padded acoustic soft top make sure minimum interior noise, which means you, can drive it in windiest conditions without having the experience ruin by the elements.

From the general viewpoint, the soft top actually add to the attractiveness of the dreamy E-Class model, so if you're in search of cabriolet, it's without doubt worth to have a glance at it. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class Cabriolet must set out on deal in the UK in the month of March in 2010. Prices are yet to be declared.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Taiwan's automotive production is showing signs of improvement and the island's new-car sales were up in the third quarter of 2009, but continuing prospects continue to be doubtful as a fall in the product tax on new-fangled cars and power-driven two wheelers, instituted by the government to encourage the market, is expiring at the closing stages of this year.

Manufacturing value in the domestic automotive division, as well as both assembled automobile and automobile parts, augmented by 4.2% quarter-on-quarter (QoQ) and 16.5% year-on-year (YoY) in the third quarter. New-energy automobiles are projected to unlock new ways for Taiwanese companies to build up the huge Chinese market.

The manufacturing worth of assembled automobiles total NT$29.69 billion (US$913.5 million) in the third quarter, up 3.6% QoQ. Standard/huge buses (over 10 seats) and average/compacted cars benefit from the highest YoY augmented during the period, 109.8% and 80.1%, correspondingly.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Automobiles are a fancy for many. There are handfuls of vehicle owners who regard their vehicle as their second self. Sagging headliners become a pain for car lovers. They are so unattractive and pose to be dangerous too. With age of the vehicle its headliner begins to pose terrible pain to the vehicle user. Auto headliners rip and drop down and serve to block the driver's view at the climax of its wear and tear. Here are some tips to repair your headliner;

1. Just buy a headliner repair kit, torx and fathead screwdrivers and sandpaper.


2. Slightly lower the Trim with the help of screwdrivers. This will be enough to remove the headliner board.


3. Remove the items that are holding the head liner. Seat belt hardware and rear view mirror can be the common items that hold your auto headliner.


4. Get the help of another person to remove the headliner board. Now remove the old fabric and old glue that would be stuck to the board. Then furnish it with the new fabric neatly.


5. Let it dry. Then repeat the above steps to put it back in place.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

• Wash the soft top only when the car is parked in the shade.


• Squirt water above the complete top.


• Apply the shampoo and let it sit for few minutes, but not until it dries out.


• Now cleanse it with the brush thoroughly.


• Rinse the foam after brushing.


• Now wipe most of the water with the towel.


• Let the car dry under sun.


• Then apply the protectant to maintain the color.


• Clean the windows. Any moist towel will do the magic for the windows.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

• If your seat covers are aging then just replace it. Do not try to send your automobile for shampooing. The new seat covers cost less than the shampooing cost.

• Sun is a foe automobile interior. Park your car always in the shade. This will help you keep you dashboard, upholstery, seat covers, door handles, etc brand new.


• Tint your windows to save the inside of your car against harmful radiations.


• Try window shades as tinting is restricted.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Auto seat covers are extremely well-liked for a variety of reasons. Seat covers are a simple way to hide away the damaged seats. They are very cheap in this regard. As changing a seat will cost you many times the cost that will go into making a seat cover to hide it. It enhances the look of your vehicle too. They are capable of adding warmth and luxury to automobiles which tends to be cold throughout wintry weather. There are a variety of material types so as to be made into auto seat covers.

Leather:

This type of car seat adds luxury to your cars. There are a wide range of prints to choose from.

Sheepskin:

This type is synonymous to warmth and looks. They please our eyes too. They warm up your car faster than any seat cover. It is supposed to be the best option in comparison to vinyl covers.

Microfiber:

They are moderately priced. They might be thin but they are for sure durable. They are available in the market in basic colors.

Olefin and Polypropylene fibers:

They are another inexpensive option. They are most economical.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Convertible automobiles are a fun to have. Driving them gives you immense pleasure. You can enjoy the weather during the drive. But care comes first when you possess a convertible. Here are some valuable tips to care for soft tops;

• Buy a sponge or a soft brush, a convertible top cleaner, a Vinyl Protectant, a car cover and a soft towel.


• Go in for products that are specifically made for soft tops.


• The product thus bought will stay good for years. Clean your soft top every 6 months as suggested by most manufacturers.


• If you use your convertible often, then try cleaning your soft top once in three months.


• Do not wash your convertible top in direct sunlight. Make sure that your soft top is not too hot when you begin to wash.


• There are cleaners to keep your plastic windows off dirt.


• As soon as washing your top do not let it down. Let is completely dry.


• Use a protectant to keep your soft top from cracking.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

During the Frankfurt motor show, the automotive design community conducted a glamorous awards ceremony for the industry's top future designers. Philip Woodman, a student of Coventry University designed an alpine sports vehicle and his vehicle was selected as the best for Interior Motives Design Awards 2009. The panel members were highly impressed on Woodman's concept. John Puskar, Designer Chief of auto interiors, GM Europe described it as "beautiful use of form vocabulary". While Adriana Monk, Design Director of Wally Yachts, pointed out its "elegancy, modernization and a precise interior with overall harmony".

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Convertible top is a kind of automobile top that has the capacity of both folding and pulling back. They are moreover soft and hard tops, greater part of people desire soft tops but there are some segments of the people that opt for hard tops. Hard tops include the ability to fold inwards and they are not frequently recognized as convertibles. They are describing as retractable hardtops as of the frames that they have are finished out of steel. These tops are finished both from canvas or vinyl that fits with steel or a tough plastic frame.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

1. Firstly drench the convertible top totally.


2. Make use of a wet material or mop to extend cleaner over the top. If your convertible top is deeply dirty, you might need to allow the cleaner sit on the top for up to 15 minutes to release the dirt. You might also require using a soft nylon brush to softly clean trouble blemish.


3. Wash the top with spherical strokes, functioning in small segments.


4. Clean the car carefully; making sure all cleanser is removed totally.


5. With a soft fabric softly dry up the convertible top. Carry on with drying up until top is totally dried out.


6. Get the convertible top protectant and tremble it for few seconds to totally mix up the product. Sprinkle protectants on a foam applicator and with the foam applicator apply the protectant on the top.


7. Let the protectant to drench in for up to 3 to 5 minutes and then get a soft, hygienic towel for rubbing dry.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Auto seat covers are mainly designed to guard the car seating upholstery from daily deterioration. They also offer utmost comfort for the travelers and extra fashion to your car's interior. These seat covers are essential to maintain your seats forever at their perfect form.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Renovating an outstanding car into a convertible requires more cosmetic surgery and a plasma cutter.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Making a prestige German car calls for an obsession for attention to detail with Audi now only selecting leather from bulls rather than cows to achieve the required upholstery standards for the 36,000 premium cars it will sell in the UK this year equipped with leather seats.

As many as 40 per cent of UK Audi customers specify real leather thanks to the company's very high quality interiors achieved with soft and supple leather sourced only from bulls. Hides from cows are too small and less homogenous and do not meet their stringent quality standards.

The very high standards required for its customers start from when Audi selects its materials. Each hide destined for an Audi is divided into three quality zones. The best piece is the back area (croupon) where the grain is particularly even with cracks or scars due to injuries rare. Audi discards the outermost region of each hide again for quality control reasons.

The very high grade leather from the core of the bull's back is used in all areas of a car seat where fine, smooth appearance and high robustness are most important - on the headrest, in the shoulder area, in the important lower seat squab area and on the side bolsters and seatbacks on the entry side.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Mazda's range of 'Zoom-Zoom' vehicles continues to impress automotive experts, with the iconic Mazda MX-5 roadster once again selected for critical acclaim in the 2009 Auto Express New Car Awards.

Presenting the Mazda MX-5 with a class-topping annual award for the fourth successive year, the judges from the UK's best-selling weekly automotive magazine ranked the iconic two-seater, rear-wheel drive sports car as 'Best Roadster' - beating BMW and Porsche rivals for the top ranking.

Praising the Mazda MX-5, Auto Express commented: "The pretty roadster is the default choice for affordable wind-in-the-hair thrills thanks to its simple folding fabric hood, entertaining rear-wheel drive handling and incredibly attractive prices. The folding hard-top Roadster Coupe variant only serves to boost the car's appeal, providing improved refinement and security. Prices start from £16,345, which makes MX-5 something of a bargain."

Significantly upgraded for 2009, the 10-strong range of new Mazda MX-5 sportscars, available with either traditional soft-top or in Roadster Coupe form featuring a powered retractable hard top, have a fresh design that enhances their dynamic appeal and is harmonised with Mazda's next-generation Mazda6, Mazda3 and Mazda2 line-up.

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops, soft tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

On August 13th - 15th Russo & Steele will stage their Monterey Sports & Muscle sale in California, offering some incredible deals on classic Ferraris and more. We've written plenty about the multimillion-dollar auctions taking place but the R&S sale looks like a great place to grab a bargain. On the high end is this 1967 Ferrari 275 GTB/4, with an estimate of $1 million - $1.1 million. As we noted earlier this year, this model is widely considered to be one of the world's most beautiful Ferraris. Formerly in the collection of racing legend Skip Barber, the car has not only been impeccably restored but tuned up for maximum driving pleasure.

Somewhat less expensive but no less appealing is a 1960 Ferrari 250GT Series II Cabriolet finished in a deep maroon over tan hides and a black cloth convertible top. It was imported when new by Vilem B. Haan, one of the pioneers of the American sports car aftermarket and known to readers of period automotive magazines for his catchy advertising and unique offerings. The car remains in show-quality condition, most recently on display just this past fall at the Palos Verdes Concours d'Elegance.

For more : http://www.luxist.com/2009/08/03/the-classicist-steal-a-classic-ferrari-and-more-at-monterey-sale/

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

WHEN it comes to niche marketing, the people at BMW seem to have tuned it to a fine art; they keep on coming out with model after model, making sure that a customer's every whim and fancy is catered for.

A prime example would be the new BMW 325i Convertible. If you step back and look at the BMW 3 Series, you can see that in this segment, there is a 2.0 litre 3201, a 2.5 litre 325i, a 3.0 litre 330i, a 3.0 litre turbo-charged 335i, that comes in two-door coupe form, and also with four doors. Further up, there is the M3 for the petrolheads, and now there's the Convertible for those who like to go topless! This means there is a 3 Series for any pocket size. All we need now would be a 4WD version, which I hear is soon available.

The new BMW 325i Convertible seats four adults, not as comfortably as a regular four-door BMW 3 Series would, of course. If you like convertibles, and need a four-door car, this is it. It is 'softer' in performance because of differences in weight distribution, need of additional reinforcements in the floor pan to cater for rigidity at the lower end, and there are more parts to make up the roof mechanism, but it still drives like a BMW should - safe and sure at all times.

Source : http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=36342

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Prestige open-top motoring just got more affordable. Now for the waiting list...

The Lexus IS250C may be designed to make the most of clear blue skies, but it's set to cause a storm. The Japanese maker's most affordable droptop since the $174,000 SC430 flagship - and first challenger to the hugely popular BMW 3 Series convertible - went on sale in Australia this week, but the first two month's allocation of cars has sold out. Little wonder: the price of the Lexus range ends where the German rivals start.

The starting price for a BMW 3 Series convertible is $97,121 plus dealer charges and on-road costs; for the Mercedes-Benz CLK convertible it's $103,689. But the starting price of the Lexus is almost $20,000 less than the competition. As reported earlier this month, there are three models in the IS250C line-up, ranging from $79,900 to $99,900 plus dealer charges and on-road costs.

It seems the drop-top Lexus has already made an impact, with the company claiming four out of every five orders received so far being made by customers who've never bought a Lexus before. "We've seen a number of Porsche Boxsters traded-in, as well as the usual European brands," says the boss of Lexus Australia, John Roca.

"This car has really taken us by surprise. The demand has been pretty much instant and we're getting seriously worried about how we'll be able to meet demand. "To get customers who are new to the brand is really important to us, because it gives us a chance for more people to have the Lexus customer experience."

It's a good thing summer is still a few months away. Order a new Lexus IS250C convertible today and you may just be able to take delivery before the start of the open-top season.

Source : http://www.carsales.com.au/news/2009/prestige-and-luxury/lexus/lexus-convertible-lures-new-breed-15995

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

WHILE car makers have continued their focus on comfortable driving by using the latest in intelligent systems such as car safety and personal security, entertainment is one aspect that is gaining traction through digital lifestyle gadgets and accessories.

Volvo, for example, is targeting its newly launched XC60 at those who demand design, brand integrity and hi-tech content in their lifestyle product.

Audio-wise, the LE model of the XC60 lets the driver and passengers enjoy a worldclass audio system that features 12 Dynaudio loudspeakers and an amplifier with Dolby Pro Logic II Surround delivering 130 watts x 5.

Sound can be optimised to suit three situations - the driver's seat, front seat and rear seat - and controlled from the steering wheel, centre console or rear-seat audio console.

The audio system can play MP3 and WMAformat CDs, which means that the CD changer can store a few hundred tracks.

"Beneath the front central armrest is an auxiliary input for connecting the owner's equipment such as a portable MP3 player. A USB port is also available to make it possible to plug in an iPod, MP3 player or USB," says Volvo Car Asia-Pacific's regional network and product manager Akhtar Sulaiman.

But everybody don't have to listen to the same music. In the rear-seat audio console, there are two sockets for personal headphones, so passengers can adjust the volume and choose between musical sources and playlists.

Source :http://technu.nst.com.my/Monday/CoverStory/20090726175307/Article

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Ford caught its competitors flat-footed with the introduction of the retro-styled 2005 Mustang, which was an immediate hit and reinvigorated the sagging "pony car" market. The Mustang's success didn't escape the attention of General Motors and Chrysler executives, who figured they had some retro pony cars in their portfolio, too. So we got a new-old Chevrolet Camaro and Dodge Challenger.

Hearing the rumble of those approaching hoofbeats, Ford countered by engineering the first major makeover of the current Mustang since it was introduced. Although at first glance it may not look that different, the 2010 Mustang's body shares only the roof with the 2009 model.

While the exterior was streamlined, the interior received a substantial update, too. Nothing dramatic inside, but it's comfortable, nicely done, and even on the base models, looks and feels upscale.

Under the hood, the two engine choices remain the 4.0-liter V-6, and the 4.6-liter V-8 for the GT model. The V-6 has 210 horsepower, and the V-8 received a modest bump to 315 horsepower. Both are offered with manual or automatic transmissions.

Source : http://www.orlandosentinel.com/business/orl-subiztest-drive-072609072609jul26,0,4858859.column

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

July 24 (Bloomberg) - Toyota Motor Corp. will shut a California auto-assembly plant that operated as a joint venture with General Motors Corp. for 25 years, the first time Japan's largest carmaker has closed a factory at home or abroad, according to two people familiar with its plan.

The company will negotiate the timing of the closing with Motors Liquidation Co., an entity responsible for the disposal of the assets GM shed in bankruptcy, said the people yesterday. They declined to be identified because the information wasn't public.

A collapse in U.S. auto sales to their lowest since 1976 has left Toyota, the world's largest automaker, struggling to keep North American plants running at capacity and avoid factory closings and job cuts. GM in June said it would end assembly of Pontiac Vibes at New United Motor Manufacturing Inc., known as Nummi, and quit the venture as part of its reorganization.

"Without GM's volume the plant is simply not cost effective," said Aaron Bragman, an analyst at IHS Global Insight Inc. in Troy, Michigan. "They have other facilities that could easily accommodate the production that's there."

Bragman said that should the plant close, it would mark a shift for Toyota because the automaker typically doesn't "respond to changes in the market on a short term."

For more information : http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=newsarchive&sid=av8xtgwsA8_I

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Vauxhall has released the first interior pictures of the new sixth-generation Astra, showing that the inside of the five-door hatch has been heavily influenced by the bigger Insignia's.

The architecture broadly follows that of the Insignia, with (at least in top-spec models) a high-set sat-nav system, sitting above the audio and air-con controls and flanked by the central air vents. The air vents themselves are more angular than the items you'll find in the Insignia, and the dash itself also appears more upright. Other differences include much more sweeping door handles and a different location for the electronic handbrake.

If the overall ambience and quality of the materials in the Insignia are anything to go by, the new interior of the sixth-gen Astra should mark a big step forward over the current car.

Source : http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/News/Search-Results/First-Official-Pictures/Vauxhall-Astra-2009-first-interior-photos

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Volkswagen of America, Inc. has long been known for offering special edition models with unique characteristics that create excitement in showrooms and individuality among owners. Volkswagen's latest special edition, the New Beetle convertible "Blush", builds on the already great features of the standard version with added elements and design cues that are exclusive to this limited edition.

The special edition 2009 New Beetle convertible "Blush" features an exclusive exterior and interior color not offered on the standard version. An elegant metallic White Gold paint on the exterior nicely compliments the rich red leather interior, and red convertible top that gives this limited edition its namesake. The "Blush" edition is the only current New Beetle convertible available with genuine leather seating surfaces. Other unique features include a red boot for when the convertible top is down, and unique17-inch alloy wheels.

Like the New Beetle and New Beetle convertible the "Blush" edition features a 2.5L engine that produces 150 horsepower, and 170 lbs.ft. of torque. The "Blush" edition comes with a six-speed automatic transmission, and like all 2009 Volkswagen's Electronic Stabilization Program comes standard.

Source : http://www.autoracingdaily.com/news/other-motorsports/volkswagens-latest-special-edition-new-beetle-convertible-blush/

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

On March 3, 1965, Frank Chappell went to a San Francisco car dealer with the intention of buying a new Rambler. He had done his homework and decided that was the car for him.

There were no Ramblers on the dealer's lot that suited him, so the salesman suggested they take a look at some Dodge cars on the second floor of the garage.

Mr. Chappell said, "I saw the Dodge Dart GT convertible with the top down and I was hooked."

The ivory-colored Dodge was one of a combined total of 45,118 Dart coupes and convertibles manufactured that model year. This particular Dart GT was equipped with the smallest V-8 engine offered, a 273-cubic-inch power plant that produces 180 horsepower.

When Mr. Chappell first saw the 2,795-pound car resting on its 111-inch wheelbase he thought it was either a small big car or a big small car. The base price was $2,628.

"It's a five-seater," he said. "It's really beautiful with the top down." Mr. Chappell loves to go cruising in the city with his Dodge filled with delighted friends.

The clean lines of the Dodge remain as stylish today as they were 40 years ago. The well-equipped Dodge Dart has power brakes, power steering and a power-operated convertible top. Mounted in the dashboard is a push-button AM/FM radio.

A heater under the dashboard is provided to knock off the San Francisco chill. Unusual for mid-1960s era convertibles is factory-installed air conditioning.

For more information : http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/jul/17/on-march-3-1965-frank-chappell-went-to-a-san-franc/

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

This new targa-top Solstice is the last of the Pontiacs, the final breath of a brand that failed to adapt to a changing world. Once-proud Pontiac is being phased out by General Motors, its parent, and will be gone in 2010. The Solstice coupe, a fixed-roof variation of the 4-year-old roadster, is Pontiac's last new model.

It could become something of a collector's item.

"We expect that total production will be in the neighborhood of 1,100 units when we cease operations at the Wilmington plant by the end of July," Jim Hopson, a Pontiac spokesman, wrote in an e-mail message. All Solstice coupes will have sequential ID numbers, so owners will know exactly which car of the 1,100 they have.

The coupe I tested was the hot GXP version, which comes with a 260-horsepower 4-cylinder engine. Its window sticker of $31,045 created an expectation of polish and comfort that I felt, considering the price, it failed to deliver.

Here is a car that essentially matches my definition of a doomed romance. Its drop-dead gorgeous exterior made me yearn for a fling that would turn meaningful, but a week of companionship revealed a list of quirks that included nearly every imaginable character flaw. A love-hate relationship, I suppose, was inevitable.

The spartan cabin, finished in unrelenting black on my test car, was especially noteworthy: I believe it could be the first automotive interior styled entirely by an accounting department. The only minimum-security prison I have ever visited (honest, it was only to interview an inmate) had more luxurious appointments.

The seats are tolerable, but neither supportive nor particularly adjustable - there is no place else for them to go in the cramped cockpit. Plus-size drivers should shop elsewhere.

There is virtually no convenient storage - no handy place for a cell phone, no bin to hold coins, no storage in the enormous console, no cubbies or map pockets in the doors. But there is a slit along the door sill, long enough and wide enough for a package of Slim Jim jerky.

Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/07/12/BUFQ18ITIC.DTL#ixzz0LOWARdRK

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors, convertible tops

When General Motors rolled out the Pontiac Solstice during the 2004 North American International Auto Show with the incomparable Bob Lutz at its helm, the convertible was a revelation. GM had finally built a viable sports car, we thought, with swoopy lines and a low centre of gravity, big wheels and tires, a nice 2.4L I-4, stirred by a 5-speed stick and rear-wheel drive. Yeah, it had all the right stuff.

Rushed to market, the end product was slightly less than the sum of its parts. Quality control was iffy, top operation was difficult and trunk space, to be kind, was negligible. Good looks sold the Solstice convertible - and its infinitely more attractive Saturn Sky doppelganger - but not much else.

The GXP model helped remedy a distinct power lag with its 2.0L turbocharged mill, but creature comforts and build quality continued to lag, particularly behind Mazda's benchmark MX-5 Miata convertible.

Now the whole of Pontiac is on the auction block and likely headed for the same place where Oldsmobile lives, in peoples' memories. The Pontiac Solstice convertible - and the coupe introduced at the 2008 New York Auto Show - are symptoms of how GM has forgotten its core product and why it is going away.

For more information : http://www.vancouversun.com/cars/setting+Pontiac+Solstice+Coupe+before+rises/1786624/story.html

Labels: auto headliners, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Through an interpreter, project general manager Keiichi Yoneda gave a few reasons. The car's A-pillars are strong, active pop-up rollover bars require more space and result in a smaller boot, and a car occupied with four people is unlikely to roll over.

As you can see, they are not very convincing answers.

The real reason came to me when I took delivery of the test-car. With the roof up, those scalp-protecting hoops almost touch the top end of the rear windscreen. There is just no more space for bigger rollover bars.

Lexus may have mastered quality but evidently not design.

The IS-C is Lexus' first full four- seater convertible. It is also the first car with a foldable hard top that is designed and built in-house (the others commission specialist roof-makers to do the job). Alas, this first attempt has resulted in the aforesaid bar-roof conflict, not to mention impaired rear visibility. The folded roof also takes up a lot of boot space, leaving enough stowage for a golf bag and little else.

There are other things about the IS-C that make you go "hmmm". Its slab- sided styling is a tad yesterday, with a conservative front end that works well for the IS sedan it is based on but is downright boring for a topless car. The overall profile is pleasant but in this day and age, that is not quite enough. And the funky new colours, including purple and shocking metallic blue, do not suit the conservative shape.

Like I said, design does not seem to be Lexus' strong suit.

The car is well built otherwise and the Lexus hallmark of quality is evident everywhere. The roof's folding mechanism is both smooth and clever. If it senses the car is parked too close to a wall or if someone is standing too near the boot, the roof will not retract.

Source : http://motoring.asiaone.com/Motoring/Test%2BDrive/Story/A1Story20090713-154305.html

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops

The Japanese automaker Lexus currently offers a drop top variant for two of the models in their lineup. The first is the sport tourer SC430 and the other is the entry level IS, in both 250 and 350 power packages. No matter whether you choose the small displacement straight six or the 300 HP V6, the IS-C is a very fun car to drive. However, if speed is more your thing then Lexus has something in store for you.

Starting in 2011 the luxury automaker will add one more retractable hard top to the IS lineup. The high performance V8 powered IS-F will be available with an open air option. The IS-F Convertible will be powered by the same 5.0 Liter eight cylinder engine as the sedan version mated to the same eight speed automatic transmission. The ISF Convertible will compete directly with other models like the BMW M3 Convertible.

If you were waiting for some more good news about the wind in your hair Lexus experience then we have to apologize. The SC430 is on its way out and doesn't look like it will be replaced. Also, the proposed roadster version of the future LF-A super car doesn’t have a bright looking future either.

Source : http://www.topspeed.com/cars/convertible/ke144.html

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops

The Mazda MX-5, also known as the Mazda Miata, first appeared as a 1990 model during its wintry debut at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. That seems like a long time ago. In the decades since, the Miata has become a favorite of enthusiasts, club racers and just about anybody who likes cute little convertibles.

The original Miata caused a stir because back in those days there was a dearth of affordable, two-seat, rear-wheel-drive convertibles. Memories of drop-tops sourced from Great Britain were fresher in the nation's collective memory, so many saw the new Mazda as an automotive reincarnation in the spirit of the Triumph Sprite or MG Midget.

Of course, for anyone who owned one of those English gems, the fond memories were highly selective. Compared to the entirely modern and trouble-free Miata, the old Brit cars were as sophisticated as an anvil - but not nearly so reliable.

And they leaked: from the engines, from the transmissions, from the differentials, from the windshields and from the back light. Neither you nor your garage floor was ever guaranteed being dry.

Since 1990, Mazda has carefully polished the Miata/MX-5 to be a gem of a little car. The most recent update came for the 2009 model year. The most noticeable changes were to the resculpted front end that rid the little car of a guppy-like face. The more aggressive fenders Mazda first sculpted into its RX-8 have found a new home. There's a deeper air intake up front, flanked by reshaped headlamps and foglamps. Lightweight 16- and 17-inch wheels are new for 2009 as well.

Inside, the open cockpit is surprisingly roomy for such a small car. The MX-5's new seats provide good long-distance comfort, while the center console provides useful storage space. Pop the trunk in the Miata to find enough room for a couple duffel bags - about 5.3 cubic feet - enough for a weekend getaway.

Speaking of tops, my 2009 Mazda MX-5 tester had the power-retractable hard top (first available in 2007). This stands out as a best-of-both-worlds feature. It quickly motors up and down in a no-fuss manner. When shut, it provides fixed-roof interior quietness and weather sealing.

Source : http://searchchicago.suntimes.com/autos/news/1648036,070209-mazda-miata.article

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, automotive interiors, convertible tops

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors

The 2010 Mustang has been nipped and tucked to keep it contemporary. With the exception of the fastback roofline on the coupe, the sheet metal is all new - everything from the headlights and front fascia to the fenders and stronger "powerdome" hood. The tail end is also more angular. The changes are wide ranging but are still subtle in nature.

The upgrades to the cabin are more recognizable and certainly more appreciated. The new one-piece, soft-touch dash panel and better trim accents are now a match for the rest of the cabin. The heated leather front seats are comfortable and the new centre stack is eminently logical and now features larger buttons. The stack's centerpiece, GT style, is the loud and proud Shaker 500 audio system - it blasts 500 watts of superior sound through eight well-placed speakers. With the top down, which entails releasing the header latches and holding a button for a few seconds, the Shaker out-booms those really annoying little vroom-and-boom puddle-jumpers and the awful racket the usually young driver considers music. Nice.

The test car also arrived with Ford's Sync system and something called MyColor. The former eases the chore of communicating with the outside world (the hands-free cellphone feature is a snap to pair) and it allows the driver to control the audio system simply by talking to it. The latter lets the driver personalize the interior lighting. Everything from the classy gauge cluster and its backlighting to the ambient cabin lighting can be customized. It is a nifty way of letting the owner stamp his or her mark on the car without resorting to garish add-ons (no more fuzzy dice!).

For more information : http://www.calgaryherald.com/Cars/Road+Test+2010+Ford+Mustang+Convertible/1709371/story.html

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors

Labels: auto headliners, auto interiors, auto replacement tops, auto seat covers, auto soft top, Auto soft tops, automotive interiors