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2010 Rolls Royce Phantom

2011-03-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

MSRP Range: $380,000 - $450,000

Overview

The Phantom by Rolls Royce is the vehicle maker's flagship, as it has been for a number of years. The Phantom has different configurations and sweet characteristics too. The Phantom is exceptional for all consumers because it offers so much in the way of amenities. You will have to be willing to spend big bucks for it though, after all, it's a Rolls Royce.The Phantom is offered as a sedan, the EWB Phantom, and it has an extended wheelbase. It is also offered as a coupe, a convertible, and a Drophead coupe. All Phantoms have an alloy chassis and body. They sport a 6.7 Liter V-12 delivering 453 hp/531 lb-ft of torque. They are handcrafted too and their driving manners are beyond exceptional.The Phantom by Rolls Royce comes with amazing features in every configuration. The coupe/convertible has a retractable roof and when it is closed passengers get the star filled sky feature. The Coupe is sporty, it is superior for distance drives, and it has impressive speed and handling.

TheCarConnection.com has researched reviews and driven the Phantom, Phantom Coupe, and Phantom Drophead Coupe to bring you this comprehensive review of its safety, performance, styling, comfort, and quality. Resident Anglophiles at TheCarConnection.com also used their drives in other ultra-luxury vehicles to compare and contrast the Phantom range with other cars in its lofty class.

Likes:

Traditional British styling
Effortless thrust from V-12
Unmatched refinement and quality
Overly conspicuous

Dislikes:

Expensive price tag
Old-world styling
Overly conspicuous

is a brand that needs no introduction. It would be safe to say people on the farthest reaches of the planet would, at the very least, be acquainted with the name. The Phantom, be it the Sedan, the Coupe, or the Drophead Coupe, is like no other vehicle in production. Some might say it is even the epitome motoring. The large presence, attention to even the smallest details, and extreme power ensure offers the rare combination of an ultra-luxury vehicle engineered in the most modern way possible but with a stark adherence to heritage and tradition.
The Phantom range has a distinctive road presence, which is a mix of old and new. Some might not agree it always goes well together; nevertheless, the styling justifies its position at the forefront in the driving world. The tall radiator grille, Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, and massive D-pillar hark back to the days of classic models, though one does have to get used to the narrow, rectangular headlamps that seem a little out of place at first. The front end is tall and imposing, just the way it's meant to be. Keeping with its heritage, there’s chrome and polished metal everywhere, from the front grille to the exhaust pipes.
Once you step inside the new Phantom, Phantom Coupe, or Phantom Drophead Coupe, you are awed by chromed controls throughout the cabin, a glossy veneered dash, and a more than generous dose of hand-stitched leather. Even in the interior, the marriage between old and new is noticeable when the analog clock rotates out of view to expose a navigation system. Quite akin to older British cars, there are also flip-out wooden “drinks cabinets” and “picnic tables” fitted in the backseat. You may find many of the details rather charming, such as the push-pull stems that control the air vents, the stitching on the seats, and the wood-veneered door paneling, to name a few. It goes without saying that the options are expensive, though it should be noted that, understandably, will cater to your every whim.

2010 Porsche Boxster

2011-02-26T08:51:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $47,600 - $58,000

Overview

The two seat, open-air Porsche Boxster, in summary, is elemental. The Boxster is a coveted Porsche, just as the famed Spyder 550 made famous by none other than James Dean, the Boxster sports a body that is aggressive and low slung. It has a mid-mounted, optimized, V-6 engine; it grips the road at every turn, and it has amazing responsiveness. The chassis is well appointed and the car is unmatched in its segment to date.For fans of the Porsche, the Boxster is ideal. It sports a six-speed manual tranny or an optional PDK seven speed dual clutch auto gearbox. You will soon be shifting like a professional racer as you smoothly flow through down and up shifts with magic-like fluidity. The PDK gearbox lends technological mastery to this full bodied vehicle too.No doubt, the Porsche Boxster has a chassis that screams "I'm a sports car." The interior and exterior are heavenly. The steering is sublime. On the road grippage is spectacular. The Boxster has perfected front and rear balance too so your drive is also silky smooth.

The all-new Boxster gets another bump in output to match the hardtopS at 320 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Weight for this highest-performance Boxster variant is trimmed to just 2,811 pounds, 176 pounds lighter than the Boxster S it's based on. That's enough to clip 0.2 second off the 0-60 mph times. A standard limited-slip differential and 20 mm lower sport suspension make the even more responsive. To get the weight savings, though,offers some concessions to comfort; the air conditioning is removed, and lightweight seats replace the comfortable but heavy standard-issue items. External weight-saving changes include the removal of daytime running lights and fog lamps, and the electric-powered soft top is swapped out for a manual version.

2010 Porsche Cayman

2011-02-26T02:46:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $51,400

Overview

Some consumers love the open aired ride of a sports car with a drop top. Yet, when it is a chopped top the car is definitely compromised. A chopped top car doesn't have a rigid body or a ridge mount suspension. That's why consumers like the Porsche Cayman coupe; it offers a solid body.The Cayman has a mid mount engine. It comes with a selection of six cylinder motors married to a choice of trannys including the six speed manual or seven speed PKD dual clutch automatic gearbox. The Cayman sports a racecar-like chassis and responsive steering too. In addition, this coupe sports hardtop making it more sound structurally speaking. The suspension is poised and the driving manners are exceptional.The Cayman is not a hardtop boxster. It has a body with sloping glass components that complement its elaborate haunches. It looks extremely different from soft top boxster models.The Cayman is hypnotic in every sense of the word. You get an ultimate sports car with a handsome design, superior handling, great power, and sound structure as well.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Porsche Cayman is a two-seat coupe available in base and Cayman S trim levels. Standard equipment on the base car includes 17-inch wheels, summer high-performance tires, front and rear foglamps, eight-way adjustable seats (power recline, manual for all others), a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, air-conditioning, a trip computer, cruise control and a four-speaker sound system with CD player. The Cayman S gets a bigger engine, 18-inch wheels and a nine-speaker sound system.
The Cayman's lengthy options list includes typical items like different wheel sizes and designs, a limited-slip rear differential lock, ceramic composite brakes, adaptive suspension, a rear window wiper, auto-dimming mirrors (packaged with automatic wipers), rear parking sensors, bi-xenon adaptive headlights, PDK shift paddles and a sport exhaust.
Interior options include automatic climate control, fully powered seats, two different sport seat designs, heated seats, ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, Bluetooth, a navigation system, voice controls, an iPod interface, satellite radio, an in-dash or remote six-CD changer, a seven-speaker sound system upgrade for the base Cayman and a 10-speaker Bose surround-sound system for either model. The Sport Chrono package adds a lap timer, adjustable driver settings and, with PDK, launch control.
Then there are the numerous customization choices that will cover just about any interior surface in leather, Alcantara, aluminum, carbon fiber, wood trim or exterior paint.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Porsche Cayman is powered by a 2.9-liter horizontally opposed (a.k.a. flat, or boxer) six-cylinder that produces 265 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The Porsche Cayman S gets a direct-injected 3.4-liter flat-6 good for 320 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. Both cars come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while the seven-speed PDK automated manual is optional. The base car accelerates from zero to 60 mph in about 5.5 seconds, while the S chops about a half-second off that time.
EPA-estimated fuel economy is quite good for a sports car. A Cayman with the manual will return 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 combined, while the PDK improves that to 20/29/24. The Cayman S with a manual is estimated to achieve 19/26/22, and PDK improves mileage to 20/29/23.

Safety

The Cayman comes standard with antilock brakes, traction and stability control, side airbags and side curtain airbags.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Porsche Cayman's interior boasts premium materials and proper sports car seating. The oversized center-mounted tachometer conveys the Cayman's high-performance DNA, although the analog speedometer's tiny numbers and huge range make it more decorative than functional -- the trip computer's digital speedo readout is more useful. Some controls are a bit fussy, but the present center control stack is much friendlier than before -- especially the touchscreen navigation system.
Sharing much of its cabin with the Boxster roadster, the Cayman is hardly a spacious environment. Legroom is tighter than in other two-seaters and 2+2 coupes, while the small greenhouse can feel a bit confining. On the upside, the standard seats are remarkably comfortable and supportive -- the optional sport seats really aren't necessary. In regard to trunk space, there are 9 cubic feet available in the rear hatch (located behind the engine and cabin), and a front trunk expands total storage capacity to 14.5 cubic feet. Despite this impressive total, though, both compartments are awkwardly shaped.

Driving Impressions

Thanks to its petite size, modest weight and midengine layout, the 2010 Porsche Cayman handles superbly, managing to feel glued to the road and light on its feet at the same time. Body roll is virtually nonexistent, and the variable-ratio steering is among the best systems on the market. With the optional active suspension, the Cayman rides amazingly well for a sports car.
If you didn't know the 320-hp Cayman S existed, chances are, the base Cayman's 2.9-liter motor would never have a negative word thrown at it. Both are capable and impressive -- it just depends on how demanding you are as a driver and how willing you are to throw down $10,000 for an extra 0.6 second of 0-60 acceleration. The new PDK transmission is a revelation, providing faultless automated-manual shifting performance for those who would rather not row their own gears. We're not fans of the wheel-mounted buttons, though, preferring the paddle shifter designs found in the 911 Turbo and other vehicles.

2010 Nissan Rogue

2011-02-26T02:34:00.000-08:00

Price Range: $20,340 - $23,130

MPG Range: 21 - 27 mpg

Bodystyles: SUV

Overview

Nissan made the Rogue with the C platform found in the Japanese Dualis, the Qashqai, and the Sentra. The Rogue is a compact crossover engineered to compete with the Honda V and the Toyota RAV4. The Rogue is 65.3-inches in height, 70.9-inches in width, and 182.9-inches in length. It is longer than Honda and Toyota, but it is shorter and narrower. The car is also larger than its Euro siblings.The Nissan Rogue is ultramodern, and it has an urban feel. The vehicle was made in Nissan Design America in San Diego, California. The carmaker had plans for the Rogue to be a sporty alternative. The carmaker did away with the torsion-beam-rear-suspension shared with the Sentra. The Rogue is fitted with an independent Multilink system. It offers a carlike ride, smooth handling, and a decent package. Features include steering wheel mounted paddle shifters, standard stability control, traction control, front/rear disc brakes, all-wheel drive, and 17 inch alloy wheels.The Rogue is offered with the 2.5-Liter, 170 hp in-line-four joined to a CVT. The car can conquer 0-to-60 in 8.0 seconds.

The Range

Bodystyle: SUV
Engine: 2.5L I-4
Transmission: Continuously variable transmission (CVT)
Models: S, S AWD, SL, SL AWD, Krom, Krom AWD

What's New

The Krom model joins the Rogue lineup, adding unique 17-inch aluminum wheels with 225/60 tires, a new front fascia with integrated fog lamps, rear privacy glass, a body-color rear spoiler, and center-mounted exhaust. Based on the Rogue S, the Krom can be equipped with either front- or all-wheel drive, and is available in red, black, and gray paint schemes.

Exterior

The Rogue is based on Nissan's C platform, which utilizes plenty of high-strength steel to deliver stiffness and light weight. With an extended 105.9-inch wheelbase and 182.9-inch overall length, Rogue is one of the longest compact SUVs.

Interior

Along with 58 cubic-feet of cargo space, Rogue's interior offers a rear cargo organizer and available leather-trimmed seats, heated front seats (power driver's), Bluetooth phone capability, satellite radio, and a Bose audio system with seven speakers.

Performance & Handling

The sole engine option for the Rogue remains a 2.5-liter DOHC 16-valve I-4 putting out 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. Mated exclusively to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with available paddle shifters, the 2.5 delivers spirited performance combined with respectable fuel economy. Rogue comes standard with a front strut/rear multi-link suspension, electric power steering, and four-wheel disc brakes.

Safety

Nissan fits every Rogue with front, front-side, and side curtain airbags, the last for outboard occupants in both rows. The Rogue also gets traction control, stability control, and a tire pressure monitoring system.

2010 Nissan Xterra

2011-02-21T21:51:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $18,759

Overview

Introduced in the year 2000 after debuting in 1999 in the Detroit auto show is the Xterra. The Xterra was an immediate success and appeals to young, busy consumers. The Xterra fuses exceptional on/off road handling, great performance, and aggressive style. It was named the SUV of the Year by Motor Trend in 2000.The newest Xterra is now in its third generation and it's a fantastic combo. It's outfitted with a V-6, 261 hp motor, body-on-frame design, and a live rear axle. It's bold, brazen, and it sports a roof rack and a rear step as standard embellishments. The 2010 configurations are, for the most part, carryovers of earlier configurations. Thus, the Xterra continues to be quite appealing. This vehicle competes with Toyota's FJ Cruiser and the Jeep Wrangler.The Xterra and the Pathfinder, the Titan truck, as well as the Armanda SUVs share a similar platform. It has a 106.3 inch wheelbase, and is off-road capabilities are exceptional. It sports a fold flat seat in the second row thereby increasing cargo space to as much as 65.7 ft.³

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Nissan Xterra is powered by a 4.0-liter V6 that produces 261 horsepower and 281 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard on all but the SE, while a five-speed automatic is standard on that model and optional on all others. Rear-wheel drive is standard on every Xterra except the Off-Road trim, which comes with the other trims' optional four-wheel-drive system. This includes a multimode transfer case with low-range gearing.
In performance testing a 4x4 Xterra with the automatic went from zero to 60 mph in 8 seconds. EPA estimated fuel economy is 16 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined with the manual transmission and 15/20/17 with the automatic.

Safety

The 2010 Nissan Xterra is equipped with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Xterra Off-Road models also come with hill descent control and hill start assist. In Edmunds brake testing, the Xterra Off-Road came to a stop from 60 mph in 131 feet, which is decent performance for a traditional midsize SUV.
In government testing, the Xterra achieved four out of five stars in the frontal crash test and five stars for side protection. Its three-star rollover rating is a bit low, but similar to most off-road-capable SUVs. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Xterra its highest rating of "Good" in both the frontal-offset and side crash tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Nissan Xterra's interior controls are easy to use and reach. The overall impression is marred somewhat by the use of hard plastics, but they really aren't much worse than its off-roading competitors.
The cargo area offers 35 cubic feet of space with the rear seats up and 66 cubes with the seats folded. All Xterras (except for the base X model) feature cargo areas that have an easy-to-clean floor, as well as sturdy utility hooks mounted to the sides of the floor and ceiling. An innovative, adjustable channel system for securing bike racks and gear is also built into the floor. There are also built-in spaces for an optional first aid kit and a 1-gallon water jug.

Driving Impressions

Thanks to the 2010 Nissan Xterra's powerful V6, performance is sure to satisfy. On the road, the Xterra maneuvers confidently with precise steering, while also keeping body roll in check. With its truck-derived underpinnings, the Xterra offers impressive off-road performance due to its long suspension travel and high ground clearance. The engine further enhances off-road prowess with its prodigious low-end power, though its ultimate in-the-dirt capabilities fall short of the Wrangler's. The compromises of handling and ride quality in the city are minor, considering the Xterra's versatility.

2010 Mitsubishi Galant

2011-02-21T21:47:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $21,599 - $23,999

Invoice: $20,687 - $22,986

MPG: 21 City / 30 Hwy

Overview

At one time synonymous with exceptional design, the Mitsubishi Galant was known to have aggressive dynamics, advanced technologies, and a superior style. In the early 80s, the Galant had the VR4 turbocharged engine and an all-wheel-drive configuration.Today, the Galant is a low selling vehicle and it is hardly acknowledged by consumers. The reason that the Galant continues to be overlooked is it hosts a motor that churns out 160 hp, the latter of which is hardly competitive. The motor is married to an outdated four-speed auto tranny. Rumor has it that the carmaker will soon offer a Japan-sourced Galant that will stem from a Lancer body design and from the 2007 ZT Concept, but the carmaker hasn't been specific about any plans.The Galant is a five seat vehicle with exceptional fuel efficiency since it delivers 30 miles per gallon when on the highway. In the SE one will find 18 inch wheels, Sirius satellite radio, a front strut tower bar, a glove box with illumination, a 650 Watt Rockford Acoustic Design system, a navigation system, foglights, and more.

Other Cars to Consider

Given how many good midsize sedans are on the market today, there’s no reason for you to compromise. For a midsize sedan that’s more well-rounded and less expensive, check out the 2011. Reviewers prefer the Fusion to the Gallant for the Fusion’s more upscale and comfortable interior and better performance.
If you want a real value, test drive the 2011 . The Sonata matches the Galant’s long warranty and has standard features on the base model that you have to pay extra for on the Galant. Plus, reviewers say the Sonata’s interior is comfortable, modern and more upscale than its price suggests.

Mitsubishi Galant: The Details

The Galant is offered in two trim levels. The basic ES model and more upscale SE trim. For 2011, Mitsubishi stuffed the SE trim with standard features, including navigation and Bluetooth. The ES model remains fairly basic.

"There was a time when the Galant aspired to be a European-style sedan, but now time has passed by this model and the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant can't match its competition from Japan. After being redesigned seven years ago, the Galant has slowly devolved into a choice best left to car rental agencies (and ones that aren't terribly picky at that). There's little going on to recommend it, and a whole heap of drawbacks
"Mitsubishi offers a mainstream sedan, but who knew? The soft ride and the roomy interior make it perfect for the rental fleets, but the Galant lacks the personality to attract attention away from the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
“Galant matches the midsize-class leaders for roominess and interior comfort, and holds its own in acceleration and handling. These sedans lag in mechanical refinement, solidity, interior materials, and assembly quality. Yes, Galant typically sells for less than its rivals, but that's offset by Mitsubishi's lower resale values.

7.9 (Good)

If you want a predictable commuter car, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant will do fine, but if you want more from your car, reviewers say there are better choices than the Galant. Reviewers complain about the Galant’s engine and antiquated transmission. While the ride isn’t horrible, it’s nothing to write home about either.

7.4 (Good)

For 2011, Mistubishi lowered the Galant by half an inch. While Mitsubishi says this gives the Galant a “sleeker-looking stance,” it’s doubtful that the change will affect how reviewers feel about the Galant’s looks. Most say the Galant has dull styling.

7.7 (Good)

Over and over again, car reviewers complain about cheap materials in the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant. While Mitsubishi has added more standard features to the SE trim and several reviewers compliment the passenger space, overall, the cabin of the Galant is a letdown.

NA

The hasn’t crash-tested the 2011 Mitsubishi Gallant, but intests, the 2011 Galant earns good scores.

NA

The 2011 Mitsubishi Galant comes with one of the longest warranties in the class, and that coverage is one of the Galant’s strongest selling points. The basic coverage is a five-year/60,000-mile basic. The Galant also has a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, which is far longer than most competitors offer.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander

2011-02-21T21:42:00.000-08:00

PRICE AS TESTED: $29,990 (base price: $29,990)

Overview

When comparing the Mitsubishi Outlander to the Honda CR-V or the Toyota RAV4, the Outlander has sold fewer units. Yet, drivers of the Outlander appreciate the spunk that the Outlander offers via its fuel-efficient, four-cylinder V-6 engine. The Outlander is offered with front or all-wheel-drive configurations as a five or seven seater.The Outlander is offered with a 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty. The latter feature makes the Outlander distinct from its competitors. Upper level amenities include things like Bluetooth connectivity, an aluminum roof, a split tailgate, and a 40 GB music hard drive. In the GT, one can get Idel Logic: the latter function automatically sets the car in neutral whenever it stops to reduce fuel usage.The Outlander is manufacturing four grades; the XLS, GT, SE, and ES. The ES and SE come with a four-cylinder motor married to a CVT. The GT and the XLS are equipped with a V-6 engine married to a six-speed auto tranny. The ES sports 16-inch wheels and all other Outlanders are fitted with 18-inch wheels. All trim levels have all-wheel-drive options.

Smarter than the Average Differential

For another $2860 above the price of an all-wheel-drive Outlander XLS ($27,130, base), the $29,990 Outlander GT adds a sunroof and a 710-watt Rockford Fosgate thumper stereo with a 10-inch subwoofer in the trunk (a navigation system is optional on the GT), plus S-AWC, or Super All-Wheel Control. That last bit is Japanese hyperbole for an electronic front differential that senses driver inputs, vehicle attitude, and wheel slip to vary engine torque to either of the front wheels with an electronically controlled clutch pack.

What does all that mean? The Outlander GT steers sharper in tight corners, because when the inside front wheel loses traction, the computer directs more torque to the outside wheel to help turn the car. The rear axle, meanwhile, also gets torque sent to it via the car’s all-wheel-drive system.

It all works well, giving the Outlander more steering confidence in fast turns and a better sense of control, if fast turns are places you like to go. If not, know that the GT is going to steer you in the right direction if you overdo it on a freeway on-ramp or are feeling frisky during morning rush hour. When the weather turns foul, you can switch the system from “tarmac” to “snow” with a three-position dial on the center console. It makes S-AWC more circumspect about spreading torque around for the best traction in the slippery stuff. You can also lock the Outlander in four-wheel drive at low speeds for extracting the car from especially sticky (or snowy) situations.

Not an Evolution Crossover

Like the XLS, the GT gets a 10-hp upgrade to its 3.0 liter V-6 for 2010, now making 230 hp. Shifting the six-speed automatic (base 2.4-liter models get a new continuously variable transmission) with the column-mounted paddles, we managed to hit 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, which is toward the quicker end of the class. Mitsubishi could have gone farther. The GT doesn’t have the company’s new six-speed, dual-clutch automated-manual transmission used in the Lancer Ralliart and Evolution or a power upgrade compared with the cushier Outlander XLS model. It could have made a real Evo crossover with 20-inch rims and the equivalent of iron poles for shock absorbers—but it didn’t. That’s probably a good thing. The price would have been deep into $30,000 and buyers would have been scarce.

The GT’s ride is definitely on the sporty side, but it’s still compliant and won’t make children cry or spill their ice cream. Unlike an Evo, the cabin has decent sound isolation from tire noise and road thunks. In other words, although it wears a GT badge, the Outlander’s go-fast tuning hasn’t gone off the deep end for people who are only casually sporty.

The Little Things

Mitsubishi has also refined the exterior styling to be more, er, EVO-cative. The grille opening is now a massive inverted-keystone shape like the Lancer’s; the look was previewed by the and is a definite improvement.

Inside, Mitsubishi has spruced up the materials and displays on all models, but the GT benefits the most with French-accent stitching on the leather seats and dash pad and widely employed soft-touch materials. The cheap-looking red digital information display between the gauges is gone, replaced by a high-definition, multicolor LCD that definitely ups the Outlander’s premium feel. Everywhere you look there are improvements in materials quality, texture, and execution.

The S-AWC system is the sort of high-end technology gadget that Japanese delight in and Americans wonder why anybody wanting a family wagon would spend the extra money for. In the recent past, when Mitsubishi was trying—unsuccessfully—to be a more American company, S-AWC would have been left off U.S.-bound models. But Mitsubishi is trying to be more Japanese again, partly to turn back the clock to a happier time when its cars had movable wings and electronic all-wheel drive and other wondrous widgets—and a hard-core group of Americans loved them for it.

2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse

2011-02-21T12:52:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $18,091

Overview

The Mitsubishi Eclipse has always been revered as a handsome two door with style and speed. This vehicle has had very little changes. The Eclipse still looks athletic, and that's what consumers have come to expect with a coupe hosting large rear rings and 18-inch wheels. Nevertheless, the car lags in terms of speed. The GT version sports a 3.7-Liter V-6, 265 hp engine that gives the driver a nice ride. Still, one will find the torque steer undesirable.The GS Sport coupe and the GS come with an Inline Four, 162 hp engine joined to a five-speed manual tranny. The Eclipse is fast, exciting, and the driver will be more than satisfied with the vehicle thanks to the inclusion of the four wheel independent suspension and the four wheel disc brakes. Consumers demanding great fuel efficiency can opt for the four cylinder instead of the V-6. The V-6 consumes a lot of fuel.Rumor has it that a Lancer Based Eclipse is in the offing: one that will host a 2.0-Liter turbo-engine joined to a dual-clutch auto tranny.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse hatchback sport coupe is offered in three trim levels. The base GS comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, an integrated rear spoiler, keyless entry, cruise control, 50/50-split-folding rear seats and full power accessories. The standard six-speaker audio system includes a CD player with MP3 playback capability and an auxiliary audio jack. Options for the GS include a remote engine starter, an iPod adapter, various aerodynamic enhancements and a metallic fuel door.
New for 2010, the GS Sport trim level bridges the gap between the GS and GT models. The GS Sport features the four-cylinder drivetrain from the GS, wrapped up in the GT's exterior styling. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps, a sunroof, a rear spoiler, a 650-watt Rockford Fosgate premium audio system (with satellite radio), Bluetooth and a reverse camera with rearview-mirror-mounted display.
The V6-powered GT model includes the GS Sport's equipment as well as upgrades like foglamps, larger rear brakes, leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power driver seat, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, heated side mirrors, automatic climate control, a self-dimming rearview mirror, a compass, an outside temperature display and aluminum scuff plates and pedals.

Powertrains and Performance

The Eclipse GS models are powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 162 hp and 162 pound-feet of torque. The base GS has a five-speed manual transmission as standard or a four-speed automatic as an option. The GS Sport has the automatic as standard. The GT's 3.8-liter V6 produces 265 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque and comes paired to either a standard six-speed manual transmission or an optional five-speed automatic.
Across the Eclipse range, fuel economy is just about average compared to other sporty coupes. The manual-equipped GS gets an EPA-estimated 20 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined; highway mileage drops to 27 with the automatic. The more powerful V6 checks in lower with 16/25/19 mpg for the manual and 16/24/19 for the automatic.

Safety

The 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse comes standard with antilock brakes, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. For 2010, stability control is standard for all Eclipse models. Open head restraints protect front occupants, but are absent in the rear. The Eclipse coupe has not been crash tested as of this writing, but the related Eclipse Spyder convertible received a top rating of "Good" for its performance in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Eclipse's cabin is both stylish and simple, thanks to a sweeping dash and attractive chrome-rimmed gauges with cool blue backlighting. Unfortunately, this pleasingly modern design is tempered by the use of some low-quality plastic materials. The front seats are well contoured and supportive, but the rear seats fail to provide much headroom due to the sloping rear hatchback. That hatchback design does provide some extra utility, however, as do the 50/50-split-folding rear seats.

Driving Impressions

For many drivers, the 2010 Mitsubishi Eclipse's driving dynamics may be a bit of a disappointment. The GT's V6 produces plenty of power, but getting all those horses to the pavement can often result in a large dose of wheelspin and torque steer. In contrast to the V6, the four-cylinder struggles with the Eclipse's heavy curb weight -- acceleration with the smaller engine could best be described as anemic.
Another item of contention would be the large turning circle, which necessitates many more multiple-point turns than with other vehicles. Overall handling should satisfy most drivers, but those with an appetite for performance would likely find inspiration in more nimble choices like the Honda Civic Si and Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

2011-02-21T12:48:00.000-08:00

$24,990 starting MSRP
$23,557 starting Invoice

Overview

The Mitsubishi Outlander is the sibling vehicle to the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport; the latter vehicle has a 105.1-inch wheelbase and its body length is 169.1-inches. Thus, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is 15-inches shorter than the Outlander. The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is roughly the same size as the Nissan Juke and the Mini Countryman, two of its competitors.The Outlander Sport comes with all-wheel-drive or front wheel drive configurations. The feature list are spectacular. Specific inclusions like panoramic glass roofing; Xenon headlights, power steering, plastic front fenders, regenerative braking, and Bluetooth connectivity are nice additions.The Outlander Sport is a novel SUV with a C-platform common in the Outlander and the Lancer. The Outlander Sport shares a 2.4 Liter four-cylinder motor with the Lancer as well. The motor is married to a five speed manual tranny or a CVT. The 2.0-engine can achieve 31 miles per gallon on the highway. It is an attractive SUV that weighs 3042 pounds in all. The 2.0-motor generates 140 hp and 145 foot-pound of torque. The latter statistics prove modest when compared to the competition.

Benefits of Driving a 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport Utility Crossover

The all-new Outlander has a lot of features for its price bracket and will give its rival, the new Kia Sorrento, a run for its money. Gas mileage is pretty good too, with the base-level ES turning in 21 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Even the 7-passenger XLS equipped with all-wheel drive gets 18 mpg in the city and 24 on the highway.

What's new for 2010?

The 2010 Outlander got a complete refresh, most obviously in its exterior redesign. The massive 'jet fighter' grille is in line with Mitsubishi's new design language, also seen on the super sporty Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution. The bumper, mirrors, fenders, hood and headlights all got a new, sportier look to match. The sport styling continues inside, with new available aluminum racing-style pedals. The fuel economy, all-wheel drive, and technology features all got an upgrade, too.

Model Strengths

Upgraded transmission, improved interior
all-wheel drive
family-oriented practicality

Model Review

The Mitsubishi Outlander has two available engines: a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder making 168 hp, available in the ES and SE trim levels, and a 3.0-liter V6 making 230 hp in the XLS and GT trims. The 4-cylinder is mated to a CVT transmission, while the V6 uses a 6-speed Sportronic automatic transmission. The SE, XLS and GT also have standard magnesium paddle shifters on the steering wheel.

2010 Mitsubishi Outlander

2011-02-21T12:43:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $20,840 - $29,250

Overview

A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, making 168 horsepower, is standard on ES and SE models of the 2010 Outlander, but we'd probably discourage it for most buyers as it brings barely adequate performance with its continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and generates too much engine noise while accelerating. The 3.0-liter V-6 engine that's featured on XLS and GT models has a completely different personality, producing 220 horsepower delivered through a responsive, easy-shifting six-speed automatic with steering-wheel paddles. It has a lot more power to spare and gets fuel economy approaching that of the four on the highway. ES, SE, and XLS models of the Outlander remain offered with a choice of front-wheel drive or 4WD (with a center diff lock), while the new GT is the first Outlander to inherit an application of the Super-All Wheel Control (S-AWC) system used in the Evo and Ralliart. The system includes Tarmac, Snow, and Lock modes, selected with a knob on the center console, to cater the system’s responses to specific conditions, with an Active Front Differential and electronically controlled center diff, for more seamless distribution of torque between the wheels.

2010 MINI Cooper

2011-02-21T12:38:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $17,009

Overview

The Mini Cooper was refreshed in 2001 by BMW and since that time, it has been a successful seller. The Mini Cooper is a well appointed sub compact. Its success has led to the 2007 second generation. In 2010, the vehicle is offered as a coupe or convertible, and a Clubman version with three doors.All Mini Coopers are offered in three trims The John Cooper Works (JCW), the S, and the standard. Upper trims offer exceptional niceties and more power too. The JCW is the sporty trim out of all grades. The Clubman and standard have a 1.6 Liter engine that is naturally aspirated, a great suspension, and the JCW trim and the S have a turbocharged 1.6 Liter mill: the damper rates are improved and the vehicle has improved spring.All of the Minis have 2+2 seating configurations. They sport a smaller rear seat area that can seat four. The Clubman offers a third door for access to the rear seating area. It has rear seats great for children and adults, and the wheelbase is larger too.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mini Cooper is available in two-door hatchback and convertible body styles. Each is available in three trim levels: Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW).
The base Cooper comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, a six-way manual driver seat, leatherette (vinyl) upholstery, a tilt-telescoping steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The Cooper Convertible models add a full power convertible top that includes a sunroof feature and 16-inch alloy wheels. The Cooper's Sport package adds 16-inch wheels on the hatchback and 17-inch wheels on the convertible, foglamps, a rear spoiler, sport seats and hood stripes.
The Cooper S adds 16-inch wheels, a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension tuning, foglamps and sport seats. The Cooper S Sport package adds 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights and hood stripes. The John Cooper Works includes a more powerful turbo engine, upgraded Brembo brakes and cloth upholstery. A limited-slip differential and a firmer suspension can be fitted to both the S and the John Cooper Works.
The options list is anything but mini. There are several packages available, but their content is mostly available à la carte. Major optional features include a dual-pane sunroof, automatic climate control, heated seats, keyless ignition/entry, a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound stereo, Bluetooth and an iPod interface. Other options include different wheels, parking sensors, cloth or leather upholstery, different trim colors and materials, a navigation system, satellite radio and HD radio.
The new Camden and Mayfair packages include a selection of optional features listed above and add unique colors and trim. As has been the case since the Mini's debut, a multitude of dealer-installed features are additionally available.

Powertrains and Performance

The Cooper comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine good for 118 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. As with all Minis except for the John Cooper Works, a six-speed manual with hill-start assist is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional. Mini estimates a manual-equipped hatchback will go from zero to 60 mph in 8.5 seconds. EPA estimated fuel economy is 28 mpg city/37 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined with the manual (28/36/31 convertible) and 25/33/28 with the automatic.
The Cooper S has a turbocharged version of the same engine good for 172 hp and 177 lb-ft of torque (192 lb-ft at full throttle thanks to an overboost function). In Edmunds testing, a manual-equipped hatchback went from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds, and a convertible with the same transmission did it in 7.2. EPA estimated fuel economy is 26/34/29 with the manual and 24/32/27 with the auto.
The John Cooper Works cranks up the turbo boost to produce 208 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is the only available transmission. Mini estimates a 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds for the hatchback and 6.6 for the convertible. Fuel economy is 25/33/28.

Safety

All 2010 Mini Coopers come standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and front-seat side airbags. Side curtain airbags are standard on the hatchback, while the convertible features pop-up rollover bars and larger front side airbags that extend to head height. Traction control is optional. In Edmunds braking, various Mini Cooper S models with 17-inch wheels stopped from 60 mph between 112 and 115 feet -- excellent results.
In government crash testing, the Cooper hatchback received a frontal crash rating of four stars out of a possible five. Side-impact tests resulted in five stars for front passengers and four stars for those seated in the rear. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the hatchback its best rating of "Good" in the frontal-offset test, and its second-best score of "Average" in the side-impact and roof-crush tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Mini Cooper's interior layout is as head-scratching as its exterior is endearing. The pie-plate-sized center-mounted speedometer honors the Mini's past, but from a functional standpoint it's a bit silly. Meanwhile, the climate controls are awkward to use and the stereo volume control knob isn't grouped with any other audio controls -- what looks like the volume knob is actually a redundant tuning/track-skip knob. The phrase "form over function" is quite apt when describing the Mini Cooper's interior.
On the bright side, the diminutive Mini is impressively accommodating up front -- neither headroom nor legroom is an issue. The rear seat, however, is very cramped due to a virtually nonexistent amount of legroom. Trunk space behind the rear seat is severely limited, too, but folding down the 50/50-split rear seat creates a useful square-shaped cargo area.
The convertible features a tailgate-style trunk opening with an upper portion that lifts up to allow larger items to fit in the tiny 6-cubic-foot trunk. The 50/50-split rear seat folds down to expand space into the cabin. Unlike in the old Mini Convertible, it is possible -- barely -- to see out the back of the current one with the top lowered thanks to redesigned rollover hoops, though visibility is still compromised relative to other drop tops. With the top raised, rearward visibility is very poor.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Mini Cooper is an amusement park ride on wheels, albeit a noisy one. Even the base model can hold its own when the going gets twisty. It rides stiffly, however, and the Cooper S and JCW are stiffer still. We recommend that mainstream buyers pass on the sport suspension and the larger wheels.
The base Cooper is peppy enough for most drivers, and the S and John Cooper Works variants are a wild ride -- expect some torque steer with these turbo models, though. In terms of outright speed, the JCW model is the swiftest, but the Cooper S is close enough that it should suffice for all but the most ardent Miniphile. The six-speed manual transmission is notable for its precise shifter and compliant clutch. The automatic isn't the smoothest-shifting unit in the world, but in Manual mode it responds quickly to the driver's paddle-shifted inputs.

2010 Mercury Milan

2011-02-21T12:32:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $21,860

Overview

The Mercury Milan is similar to the Fusion by Ford. The Milan got a redesign in 2010. The Ford Fusion was awarded the Car of the Year Award by Motor Trend too, and since these vehicles are practically identical, except for cosmetic differences, the Milan has the same spectacular attributes as the Fusion does. The Mercury Milan has superior road dynamics, a fantastic interior, and a good powertrain too.The Fusion has an exterior that is more aggressive than the Milan. Therefore, the Milan appeals to the consumer that doesn't want the razorblade like grille found on the Fusion. The Mercury Milan line doesn't offer a counterpart the Fusion Sport, but it does have a hybrid configuration that is opposite of the Sport. Milans are exclusive vehicles and the price is decent due to lower sales. The end draws near for the vehicle so the present time is the right time to get it at a low price. Since the entire Mercury lineup is coming to an end, you can soon get a 2010 configurations at seriously discounted prices.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mercury Milan is a midsize sedan available in base or Premier trim. The base comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry (via either the key fob or the external security keypad), full power accessories, a trip computer, cruise control, air-conditioning, a six-way power driver seat (manual backrest), 60/40-split rear seats, a leather-wrapped tilt and telescoping steering wheel with auxiliary controls, and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The Premier adds 17-inch alloys, automatic headlights, foglamps, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, dual-zone automatic climate control, power heated front seats, leather upholstery, unique interior trim and the Sync entertainment and communications interface.
Options on the base Milan include many of the Premier's standard features plus a sunroof and reverse parking sensors. Additional options on the Premier include a 12-speaker Sony sound system, a blind-spot warning system, a back-up camera, a rear deck spoiler, a 12-speaker Sony sound system with a six-CD changer, and a voice-activated hard-drive-based navigation system and Sirius Travel Link (includes real-time traffic and weather information). Note that adding navigation downgrades the CD changer to a single-disc unit if the Sony sound system is specified. Also, the Premier model can be outfitted with the Voga package, which tacks on two-tone interior trim, special leather upholstery, chrome wheels and signature badging.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Mercury Milan is powered by either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine or a 3.0-liter flex-fuel V6. Standard across the lineup, the four produces 175 hp and 172 pound-feet of torque. It's paired to a six-speed manual transmission in base Milans (a six-speed automatic optional), while the Premier model is automatic-only. The V6 puts out 240 hp and 223 lb-ft, and it's available only on Premier models. Front-wheel drive is standard, but all-wheel drive can be specified on the V6-powered Premier.
Fuel economy ratings for the four-cylinder Milan with the automatic transmission are an impressive 23 mpg city/34 mpg highway.

Safety

Antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags are standard on all Milans.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Mercury Milan's cabin will be familiar to anyone who has spent time in the previous Milan, but that's not a bad thing. Soft-touch materials abound, and the overall look is inviting and appreciably more upscale than what you'll find in the Fusion. The center stack is a bit button-happy, but it's a significant ergonomic and aesthetic improvement over its dated predecessor. The available Sync system works great, integrating audio and Bluetooth functionality with voice-recognition technology to provide easy hands-free operation of cell phones and portable MP3 players.
There's plenty of room for passengers in the Milan. While Mercury's midsizer isn't the largest car in its class, its generous interior dimensions prove that such sedans need not be as controversially large as the Honda Accord or Mazda 6 in order to accommodate families' needs. A pair of adults will be content in back (especially given the new model's rear-seat headrests), and storage space is adequate. The 16.5-cubic-foot trunk is one of the largest around, and the split-folding rear seat enables larger items to be carried inside the car.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Mercury Milan is one of the most engaging family sedans from the driver seat. Body control through corners is impressive, yet the ride remains comfortable and hushed. Performance from the base four-cylinder is adequate, and while the revised 3.0-liter V6 is still down on power compared to its rivals, it's plenty capable for most shoppers in this segment. On the downside, the electric power steering is light and numb, and the four-banger makes raucous noises during spirited acceleration.

2010 Mercury Grand Marquis

2011-02-21T12:22:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $29,525 - $29,525

Invoice: $27,808 - $27,808

MPG: 16 City / 24 Hwy

Overview

The Crown Victoria has been a fleet only option for some time now, and that resulted in the Mercury Grand Marquis, with a body on frame design, becoming the sedan consumers appreciated when looking for a rear-drive vehicle. In 2010, the Grand Marquis enters its twilight, as does the Crown Victoria, the Town Car, and the thirty-year old Panther Platform.The Grand Marquis has been unchanged for a number of years, and it lacks contemporary niceties due to the lack of updates. It hasn't gotten any new transmissions or engines either. Minor styling changes have been implemented, but everything else in the Grand Marquis remains a carryover.In 2010, Ford only offers one trim; the Grand Marquis is sold in the LS configuration and the feature list is lacking. Inside the Grand Marquis, one gets audio controls in the steering wheel, a cassette player, power adjustable pedals, and heated seats. Not much more is offered inside the vehicle. Grand Marquis fans can find the vehicle at considerable discounts now on dealer lots as it enters the twilight of its lifecycle.

Other Cars to Consider

If you're in the market for a large car, alternatives like the offer a more engaging driving experience and more modern amenities.

Mercury Grand Marquis: The Details

For 2010, the Grand Marquis is available in just one trim level, the LS. A 4.6-liter V8 engine is standard.

"Grand Marquis is a nice enough big sedan, but it suffers from a basic design that dates back to the 1980s. We prefer the Toyota Avalon, Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger, and Mercury's own Sable as more-modern, more-satisfying choices in this class.
"If you've been drooling over the but it's just too expensive, try taking a spin in a Grand Marquis.
"Appeals to those who have fond memories of old Detroit and its big, powerful, and affordable vehicles -- an audience that started driving well before the Grand Marquis's 1975 introduction.

6.7 (Mediocre)

The Grand Marquis is not an easy car to drive. Its V8 engine provides reliable passing power, but its wide turning circle, uncommunicative steering and floaty ride can make it difficult to maneuver, especially in parking lots.

5.9 (Mediocre)

Driving your Grand Marquis, you might be mistaken for a police officer. Beyond that, you won't turn in any heads. With sheetmetal that has changed little since 1992, the Grand Marquis is "a familiar profile to anyone who has traveled by taxi (or, uh, police car) in recent years,

7.1 (Good)

The passenger cabin of the 2010 Mercury Grand Marquis is spacious for front- and rear-seat passengers, but reviewers say the ergonomic layout and materials are out of date. Some also say the seats are too soft to be supportive. complains, "Numerous hard-plastic surfaces give the cabin a budget-grade feel. The leather upholstery doesn't do much to improve the overall ambiance.

8.2 (Very Good)

The 2010 Grand Marquis performs extraordinarily well in , earning five out of five stars in every test and a five-star rollover rating.

9.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 Mercury Grand Marquis reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercury offers coverage on all of its cars, including a three-year/36,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty.

2010 Mercury Mariner

2011-02-21T12:17:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $23,560

Overview

The Mercury Mariner is identical, at least mechanically, to the Escape. They are both compact SUVs entering the 2010 model year with minor changes only. The SUVs were redesigned in the year 2008. Later, in 2009, both got newer powertrains.The Mercury Mariner Hybrid is an exceptional vehicle; it has superb fuel efficiency as it delivers 30 miles per gallon on city streets and highways. When the vehicle has a V-6 motor, the Mariner has great towing abilities for vehicle buyers who need such features. The entire line of Mariners is equipped with Ford's Sync Connect too, as well as other gadgets.The Mariner has a very soft look, all due to the touches added by the manufacturer. While the Escape sells well, the Mariner turns more heads because it is a rare offering seen on the road. These vehicles share a lot of features so there is really few differences between the two offerings. Car buyers will have to decide which is best based on taste. If you want the Mariner, shop now, it is slated for discontinuation.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mercury Mariner compact SUV is available in four trim levels: I4, V6, Premier I4 and Premier V6. The base I4 Mariner comes standard with 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, privacy glass, full power accessories, air-conditioning, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a four-speaker CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The V6 includes all of the base I4's standard equipment plus the 3.0-liter V6 engine. The Premier I4 model adds rear parking sensors, ambient interior lighting, heated front seats, leather upholstery (Alcantara inserts are a no-cost option), a power driver seat, a six-speaker stereo, Sync and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. The Premier V6 model pairs the Premier I4's standard content with the six-cylinder engine.
Options on non-Premier models include a roof rack, a moonroof, Sync, leather upholstery, a power driver seat and ambient interior lighting. Among the options on Premier models are 17-inch wheels, step bars, a back-up camera, dual-zone automatic climate control, the Auto Park system that steers the car automatically while parallel parking, full Alcantara upholstery, a sunroof, an upgraded seven-speaker stereo system and a hard-drive-based navigation system with music storage, Sirius Travel Link and real-time traffic.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Mercury Mariner is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. The base 2.5-liter inline-4 generates 171 hp and 171 pound-feet of torque, while the uplevel 3.0-liter V6 cranks out 240 hp and 223 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions.
Properly equipped, the V6 Mariner can tow up to 3,500 pounds. EPA estimates are about average for this segment, with front-wheel-drive I4 models checking in at 20 miles per gallon city/28 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined (19/25/21 for AWD models), while front-wheel-drive V6 models are rated at 18 mpg city/26 highway/21 combined (17/24/20 for AWD models).

Safety

Antilock brakes (albeit with rear drums), traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags and full-length head curtain airbags with a rollover sensor are all standard on the 2010 Mercury Mariner.
The Mariner earned a perfect five stars from the government in both front and side crash tests. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Mariner scored the highest rating of "Good" in the frontal-offset and side tests. Unfortunately, the Mariner's braking performance is poor. From 60 mph, the mechanically identical Ford Escape we tested recently stopped in a disappointing 138 feet.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Mariner's cabin is a pleasantly functional space, thanks in part to a huge center console with removable bins. Satin-finish metallic accents and available leather upholstery add a premium sheen. However, the Mariner is starting to feel its age in terms of comfort and space. Up front, the seating position is too tall and there's no telescoping steering wheel, granting one the feeling of hovering above the controls. The front seats are shaped well enough, but the rear seat is as flat as a pirate's plank and offers neither a recline function nor fore/aft adjustability. What's more, folding the seatback down is a royal pain, requiring the headrests to be removed and the bottom cushions to be tipped forward. Cargo volume stands at a useful 29 cubic feet with the rear seat in place and 66 cubic feet when that seat is folded down – not bad given the Mariner's relatively compact footprint.
On the technology front, the new Auto Park option on Premier models is a cool feature, particularly at the Mariner's relatively modest price point: Once activated, the system automatically steers during parallel parking, asking the driver to control only the brake and throttle. We also like that Sync now offers 911 assist (an automatic 911 call via your Bluetooth-paired cell phone in the event of airbag deployment), traffic updates and turn-by-turn navigation, even without the optional navigation system. Using a paired Bluetooth phone, updates and directions are either sent via text message or piped through the Mariner's speakers. Finally, the standard MyKey system limits top speed (to 80 mph) and stereo volume for teenage drivers, among other vaguely Orwellian functions.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Mercury Mariner feels reasonably secure during quick changes of direction, and its ride quality is pleasantly supple. Performance from either engine is satisfactory, and the six-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts. Braking distances are unacceptably long, however, and in general the Mariner lacks that extra dynamic something that would distinguish it from other compact SUVs.

2010 Mercury Mountaineer

2011-02-21T12:13:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $29,480 - $37,180

Invoice: $27,626 - $34,633

MPG: 14 City / 20 Hwy

Overview

Mercury's only seven passenger offering is identified as the Mountainer. The Mountainer is an SUV with a body on frame construction and it shares many features found in the Ford Explorer. A brand new Explorer is in the works right now. However, the Mercury Mountainer will soon be coming to its end.Launched in 2006, the Mountainer has had very few changes since its birth. Its design is clearly aging. It lacks Ford's Sync Connect, a feature that is often in alternative Ford models. It also lacks any changes to its engine and it lacks the V-6 Ecoboost motor found in the newest crossovers.This vehicle still has the old body on frame design so the ride it offers is short of smooth. Newer crossovers have better handling, greater performance, and better driving manners overall. The Mountainer does however; offer a nice payload and towing capacity. It also has better off road abilities too. Therefore, if you want an exceptional off road vehicle, the Mountainer will be offered at great discounts and is an ideal option for the outdoor type.

Other SUVs to Consider

Those who can do without substantial towing capabilities should consider a more comfortable crossover SUV. The , for example, will save you nearly $1,600 as compared to the base Mountaineer and has a better 17/23 base fuel economy rating. Its boxy styling is similar to the Mountaineer’s, but its smoother highway ride makes it a better daily driver. It can even tow up to 4,500 pounds and comes standard with three rows of seats.
If you really want to save money and are set on a truck-based SUV, check out the . It starts at about $3,000 less than the Mountaineer and still boasts a better 17/21 fuel economy rating – which is surprising considering that it’s built on a truck-based platform just like the Mountaineer. It also comes with three rows of seats and a surprisingly nice interior. Best of all, it’s rated to tow 7,500 pounds – that’s even more than the Mountaineer – when properly equipped.

Details: Mercury Mountaineer

For 2010, the Mountaineer is unchanged. It is available in three trims: the base V6, Premier V6 and Premier V8. Rear-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional.

"It suffers some ergonomic lapses, and interior materials are unimpressive. Mountaineer, however, is a competent SUV with a solid array of useful features. Its traditional truck-type chassis serves trailering needs without giving up much refinement to lighter-duty crossovers.
"A classic body-on-frame SUV that offers a quiet and supple driving experience, the ability to tow large objects, and three rows of seats. Trucklike construction adds up to a hefty curb weight, a thirst for fuel, and a boring driving experience. A true SUV for those who still want one.
"One SUV that can get the job done, and do it with a huge amount of style is Mercury's 2010 Mountaineer. … Certainly, no vehicle is perfect, but if diverse capabilities at a reasonable price are in your game plan, Mercury's Mountaineer meets the mark. If you had to pigeon-hole the Mountaineer, it would have to be a backroad brawler with a bunch of class."

7.3 (Good)

The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer is a great performer when it’s hauling and towing, but its truck-based chassis means it doesn’t ride as smoothly as its car-based competitors. Its fuel economy is also extremely low for its class, which means the Mountaineer may not be a very good choice for commuters.

8.3 (Very Good)

The 2010 Mountaineer's design, which is very similar to itssibling, doesn't stand out. In fact, reviewers don’t even have many opinions on the styling.

8.3 (Very Good)

The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer's cabin is comfortable and well-appointed -- especially for a rugged, truck-based SUV -- but it still doesn't hold up to competitors or its high base price when it comes to quality.

9.0 (Excellent)

The gives the 2010 Mountaineer excellent scores in frontal and side crash tests. However, it doesn't fare quite

7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Mercury Mountaineer reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided .. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mercury offers a limited that is good for the first three years or 36,000 miles.

2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

2011-02-21T12:03:00.000-08:00

MSRP*: $102,600 to $198,750

Invoice Price*: $95,418 to $184,838

Overview

The two-passenger SL-Class is held precious and is honored by Mercedes-Benz; the carmaker launched the vehicle in the 1950s for the purposes of racing. The SL translates as Sport Leicht or Sport Light, and it is a successful endurance race car. After many incarnations, the SL-Class is a vehicle that is an expression of status. Presently, models are luxurious, they have lots of brightwork, and it is heavier than ever before.The SL-Class has a heavier body weight but that doesn't dampen its abilities; the car has had powertrain increases over time. The SL Class 2011 model is a 2010 carryover. Three motors are offered including the 5.5-Liter or V-8 with 518 hp, the 6.0-Liter V-12 with 604 hp, and the 6.2-Liter V-8. The V-8s are joined to a seven-speed auto tranny; the V-12s are joined to a five-speed auto.In 2009, the SL-Class was redesigned. The car retains the same dimensions and basic structure as earlier models. This car comes in a convertible too. If you want a hardtop roadster with a retractable roof, this vehicle is ideal.

Facing competition from the Jaguar XK convertible and BMW 650i convertible in the sport-luxury segment, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class sits on 18- or 19-inch alloy wheels and offers standard bi-xenon headlights, active suspension system and heated and rain-sensing wipers. When the weather is nice, lower the retractable hardtop and let the wind flow through your hair as you cruise down the highway. The optional Airscarf feature, which is located in each head restraint, blows warm air on the passenger’s neck and is comforting when it’s cold outside.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class is adorned in leather-trimmed seats and offers a laundry list of standard and available comfort and convenience features that include a voice-activated COMAND system with an eight-inch screen that controls climate, entertainment and navigation settings. HD radio and Sirius traffic info are new for 2011 and compliment Bluetooth and MP3 capability. A ten-speaker premium sound system with six-CD/DVD changer, dual-zone automatic climate control and 12-way heated power front seats with memory.

A host of standard safety technologies include all-disc antilock brakes, an electronic stability system, side-impact airbags, a driver's-side knee airbag, pop-up roll bar and active head restraints. An advanced tire pressure monitoring system is new for 2011. Mercedes’ latest “mbrace” telematics system replaces Tele Aid and includes stolen-vehicle tracking, crash notification, voice-guided navigation and a Mercedes Concierge who will make restaurant reservations and assist the driver in many other ways. The versatile “mbrace” also integrates BlackBerry and iPhone smartphones.

2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

2011-02-21T12:02:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $50,240 - $51,740

Invoice: $46,537 - $48,118

MPG: 15 City / 19 Hwy

Introduction

The refurbished and sportier has been treated to a completely new look, with a new grille, hood, front fenders, bumpers, air inlets, and all front lamp units, using the Mercedes-Benz three-bar-and-star sports car grille in lieu of the former and smaller two-star-and-bar grille.The hood is more steeply raked than the hood on the original. The bodysides have not had to be completely recontoured to fit with the new nose, so that it looks about the same from the sides, but the rear end also has been redone more crisply, with a new diffuser, new bumpers, exhaust tips, and LED fiber-optic taillamps.
The R-Class has had some difficulty finding buyers in the past because there is nothing else quite like it on the road (since the was cancelled). The R-Class has four hinged side doors, not sliding doors, and a hatch in back, so it's not a proper minivan. It has all wheel-drive, but it's not tall enough to be a called a real SUV, even though its off-road prowess is far better than most. And it's not shaped or sized like a Mercedes-Benz station wagon, either.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

The provides seating for seven (that’s one more than the standard R-Class). Better yet, it starts at about $6,000 less than the R-Class and has a much higher 17/23 mpg base fuel economy rating. The MKT also has a luxurious interior complete with high-tech options like a self-parking system, refrigerator in the second row, and a power-folding third row. Just remember that it doesn’t come standard with all-wheel drive, and many reviewers don’t like the MKT’s oddly proportioned styling.

The on the other hand, comes standard with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system and seating for seven. It starts at about $2,000 less than the R-Class, but it doesn’t improve upon its poor base fuel economy rating. However, Audi offers a TDI diesel model that nets 17/25 mpg city/highway, which is much more than the base R-Class (though still not as high as the diesel R-Class’ rating).

Details: Mercedes-Benz R-Class

The R-Class continues to come in two trims: the base R350 and diesel-powered R350 BlueTEC. Both come with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

"For those Mercedes buyers who do shop the R-class-perhaps because they're looking for maximum seating capacity while avoiding a high-riding SUV-we'd heartily recommend the R350 BlueTEC over its gasoline counterpart.
"Do I want it? If you put high value in the functionality of your vehicle, carry six or seven passengers often and don't mind driving around a vehicle that closely resembles a (gasp!) minivan, then yes." --
"R-Class combines Mercedes-Benz luxury and driving dynamics with minivan-like utility. This SUV's ability to transport 6 or 7 adults in executive-jet comfort is unparalleled in this class. It's not cheap, but slow sales should mean big discounts.
"If you were put off by the previous looks of the R-Class but still like the idea of a luxury hauler, the 2011 model could be one to finally check out.
-"While the new corporate uniform will likely win over a handful of customers, chances are Silver Arrow buyers will just as soon buy the big-boy GL-Class SUV over its crossover sister - and at $49,300 for the gasoline R Class, we can't really blame them.

8.0 (Very Good)

Reviewers like the 2011 Mercedes R-Class’ car-like performance. Just remember that it's engineered for comfort rather than excitement. The only sticking point is its base fuel economy rating, which is one of the worst in its class. Fortunately, the R350 BlueTEC diesel model provides increased fuel economy with only a minimal price increase.

7.0 (Good)

For 2011, Mercedes has substantially updated the R-Class’ styling. Reviewers like the new front end, but they still find the rear end (which is largely unchanged) oddly disproportionate. And they say the R-Class still looks like what it’s trying so hard not to be: a minivan.

8.5 (Very Good)

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class continues to boast a spacious and luxurious cabin, which is expected considering its high price tag. It provides standard seating for six and optional seating for seven. However, not all reviewers like its complicated COMAND controls system.

NA

Although the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class has not yet been tested the similar 2010 model receives good scores in crash tests. The R-Class is filled with state-of-the-art safety technology, including Mercedes-Benz's PRE-SAFE system.

2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class

2011-02-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $50,240 - $51,740

Invoice: $46,537 - $48,118

MPG: 15 City / 19 Hwy

Overview

The Mercedes R-Class may bewilder the consumer; the vehicle is identified as a crossover, yet it lacks a two-slider/two-door design. Instead, the R-Class has a four-door configuration.Mercedes R-Class has the same platform as the M and GL Class, yet it has a body/wheelbase that is longer. The Mercedes R-Class sports three rows of seats and it can seat six to seven passengers, depending on the equipment one chooses. The Mercedes R-Class has one of two engine options, the 3.0-Liter V-6 diesel-operated with urea after treatment churning out 210 horsepower/400 foot-pounds of torque or the 3.5-Liter V-6 delivering 268 horsepower. Whether the consumer chooses the gas or diesel, all of the Mercedes R-Class engines are married to a seven-speed auto tranny. The Mercedes R-Class also has AWD and 17-inch wheels.The Mercedes R-Class has carlike handling and the utility of an SUV. The cargo space is equal to 85.0 cubic-feet behind the first row of seats. It can tow 5200 pounds, but the engine is taxed. The Mercedes R-Class doesn't drive like a luxury sedan, but its ride is adequate.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If you can live without the prestige and refinement of a Mercedes, there are plenty of less expensive family SUVs. However, none of them can match the R-Class’ extremely spacious cargo area and roomy third-row seats.
The provides seating for seven (that’s one more than the standard R-Class). Better yet, it starts at about $6,000 less than the R-Class and has a much higher 17/23 mpg base fuel economy rating. The MKT also has a luxurious interior complete with high-tech options like a self-parking system, refrigerator in the second row, and a power-folding third row. Just remember that it doesn’t come standard with all-wheel drive, and many reviewers don’t like the MKT’s oddly proportioned styling.
The on the other hand, comes standard with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel drive system and seating for seven. It starts at about $2,000 less than the R-Class, but it doesn’t improve upon its poor base fuel economy rating. However, Audi offers a TDI diesel model that nets 17/25 mpg city/highway, which is much more than the base R-Class (though still not as high as the diesel R-Class’ rating).

Details: Mercedes-Benz R-Class

The R-Class continues to come in two trims: the base R350 and diesel-powered R350 BlueTEC. Both come with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system.

"For those Mercedes buyers who do shop the R-class-perhaps because they're looking for maximum seating capacity while avoiding a high-riding SUV-we'd heartily recommend the R350 BlueTEC over its gasoline counterpart.
"Do I want it? If you put high value in the functionality of your vehicle, carry six or seven passengers often and don't mind driving around a vehicle that closely resembles a (gasp!) minivan, then yes." --
"R-Class combines Mercedes-Benz luxury and driving dynamics with minivan-like utility. This SUV's ability to transport 6 or 7 adults in executive-jet comfort is unparalleled in this class. It's not cheap, but slow sales should mean big discounts.
"If you were put off by the previous looks of the R-Class but still like the idea of a luxury hauler, the 2011 model could be one to finally check out.
-"While the new corporate uniform will likely win over a handful of customers, chances are Silver Arrow buyers will just as soon buy the big-boy GL-Class SUV over its crossover sister - and at $49,300 for the gasoline R Class, we can't really blame them.

8.0 (Very Good)

7.0 (Good)

8.5 (Very Good)

NA

Although the 2011 Mercedes-Benz R-Class has not yet been tested by the similar 2010 model receives good scores in crash tests. The R-Class is filled with state-of-the-art safety technology, including Mercedes-Benz's PRE-SAFE system.

2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

2011-02-21T11:33:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $46,490 - $92,590

Invoice: NA

MPG: 16 City / 20 Hwy

Overview

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class entered its second generation in 2006; the SUV had a change of platform so that it has a unibody construction. Thus, the quality of the ride was improved. Such changes caused Mercedes-Benz to also make changes at the plant where the vehicle was assembled.Already a top seller, the carmaker decided it wanted to make even more changes in the M-Class. At first, the vehicle was offered with two different motors. In the 2011 models, it is offered with five options. Engine options include the 6.2-Liter V-8 AMG, 503 hp motor, the 5.5-Liter V-8, 382 hp motor, the 3.5-Liter V-6 hybrid, 275 hp motor, the gas operated 3.5-Liter V-6, 268 hp motor, and the 3.0-Liter diesel-operated V-6, 210 engine. The hybrid engine is married to the eight-speed CVT, and all other engines are married to the seven-speed auto tranny.Regrettably, the carmaker may have improved the ride, but it hasn't improved the SUV's off-road handling. Nevertheless, the vehicle sells well. The M-Class is practical, dependable, and it can tow 7200 pounds too. A 2012 redesign is scheduled.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If keeping up with the Kardashians isn’t your first priority, other luxury SUVS will save you money and offer more features than the M-Class does. The , for example, has an interior that reviewers say is refined and comfortable. It also has standards like leather seating and an iPod interface. Its starting price is lower than the ML 350’s, and it has better fuel economy ratings.
If you really need a German brand, reviewers say that the are all better performers than most of the M-Class models. They also all start at about the same price. And, if you like the M-Class for its diesel and hybrid options, you can get a diesel Q7, X5 and a hybrid Cayenne.

Details: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class is pretty much the same from 2010. There a few new handy features: Mercedes has upgraded the telematics system so owners can unlock their M-Class SUVs using an iPhone or BlackBerry. You can also use those phones to find the M-Class in a crowded parking lot.
The Mercedes-Benz M-Class is available in several trims: the V6-powered ML350, diesel-powered ML350 BlueTEC, ML450 hybrid, and V8-powered ML550. All trims come standard with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive system except the base ML350. The performance-oriented is reviewed separately.

"Aside from around-town ride comfort that could be better, M-Class is highly refined, rock solid, and engaging-to-drive. The diesel ML320 BlueTEC promises smooth, quiet operation with excellent-for-the-class fuel economy. Despite stiff base and option prices, the M-Class is a solid overall pick." --
"While mileage may not matter to shoppers in this price bracket -- we guess the ML450 Hybrid will be in the high-$50,000 to low-$60,000 range -- the green halo may be worth the investment, especially if it can perform as well as other M-Class models.
"First introduced as a 1998 model, the ML has morphed from a body-on-frame, truck-like SUV to a softer and plusher unit-body vehicle that is more competitive with machines like the Lexus RX." --
"Highly improved and now with a decent record for reliability, the M-Class continues as one of the premium class acts in the SUV world

7.9 (Good)

While the 2011 Mercedes-Benz M-Class isn’t sporty, reviewers say it’s still satisfying to drive. Power is adequate from the base engine and oozes from the V8. While handling isn’t sharp, the ride is smooth and comfortable.

8.2 (Very Good)

The Mercedes-Benz M-Class has conservative, upscale styling. While most reviewers don’t mention it, lists its “soccer-mom looks" as a low point

8.1 (Very Good)

While you’d expect a Mercedes to have a luxurious interior, to get one on the M-Class, you’re going to have to pay for it. Leather seating isn’t standard and other less-expensive SUVs have more standard features. Still, reviewers say that when it’s well-equipped, the M-Class has a nice interior, even though they do complain about the cramped rear seat.

NA

While the 2011 M-Class hasn’t been crash tested by the government yet, it’s very similar to the 2010 model, which did very well in crash tests. The M-Class also features a long list of standard safety equipment, including the Pre-Safe system, which helps prepare the vehicle and passengers if it senses an impending crash.

NA

The 2011 Mercedes Benz M-Class comes with the Mercedes limited , which runs for 48 months or 50,000 miles.

2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

2011-02-21T11:24:00.000-08:00

MSRP*: $105,750 to $124,450

Invoice Price*: $98,348 to $115,739

Overview

The 2011 Mercedes Benz G-Class, known as the European Geländewagen, is the carmaker's extreme off roading SUV. Rumor had it that once it was debuted the G-Class would soon be displaced. The vehicle has been on the market since the 1970s, and it has had a number of changes to its engines and transmissions over time. Nevertheless, the body on frame, box like structure has remained.The G-Class has two permutations: the G55 AMG and the G550. The G550 sports a 5.5 Liter, V-8, 382 hp engine coupled with a seven-speed auto tranny. The G55 AMG sports a 5.4 Liter supercharged V-8 motor married to a five-speed auto tranny. Both vehicles are fitted with front/rear/center locking differentials and heavy duty axles.Many car buyers will not use the G-Class for off road excursions. Some car buyers simply appreciate the smooth handling that the G-Class offers. Some improvements can make the G-Class even better though; its military styling is not all appealing and diminishes comfort levels. This SUV is priced from $105,000 and up, so it appeals to an elite class.

The 2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is equipped with 18-inch wheels (19-inch for the G55 AMG). The interior is adorned in Alcantara leather upholstery. Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, ambiance lighting, power windows and locks, DVD navigation, power front seats with three-position memory and rear parking assistance. The COMAND system with voice control allows you to manage your audio, video, hands-free calling and navigation functions by simply saying the word. A 40 GB hard-drive allows you to store files and store maps, while all of your data is displayed on a 6.5-inch color-LCD screen. An in-dash six-disc CD/DVD changer, iPod/MP3 media interface and 11-speaker, 610-watt Harman Kardon LOGIC7 audio system keeps everyone entertained on the way to the great outdoors.

Another impressive feature is Mercedes’ new “mbrace” telematics system, which connects your vehicle to your iPhone or Blackberry. Features include stolen-vehicle tracking, crash notification, voice-guided navigation, a Mercedes Concierge who will make restaurant reservations, and many other useful applications.

Standard safety features for the 2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class include the electronic traction system 4ETS, Electronic Stability Program ESP and three differential locks selectable at the push of a button, alongside the permanent all-wheel drive with off-road ratio.

2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2011-02-21T11:18:00.000-08:00

We got our first up close and personal look at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz C-Class -- including the wagon version -- at a dinner last night. While we’re lusting over the wagon version that we likely won’t get in the States, we can at least report that the new interior in the sedan and wagon is as classy as it appears in photos and a substantial improvement over the outgoing car.

From the outside, revisions to the 2012 C-Class are so minor casual observers might not even notice. Changes are primarily limited to the front fascia where new headlamps, designed to mimic those found on the new CL-class, a revised grille, and reshaped air intakes are found. The only other changes are a slightly lower rear bumper, revised taillights, and more modern wheels.

Once you get inside the new C-Class, it’s an entirely different story as Mercedes-Benz designers rethought the whole interior. The dashboard has been completely revised, featuring an inverted version of the angular design theme currently proliferating through Mercedes’ lineup and now seen on the S-, CLS-, E-, and CL-Classes. Metallic finish buttons lend the interior a more upscale feel as do the new dash accents -- available in either wood or aluminum.

While these touches give the new C-Class a decidedly more upscale feel than the outgoing car, the biggest improvement is the elimination of the pop-up navigation system. Instead, new C-Class buyers are treated to a fully-integrated unit prominently displayed in the center of the dashboard and covered by a sun-shielding hood.

Of course this new interior is accompanied by a raft of Mercedes’ latest technological advancements. C-Class buyers can now get Attention Assist, which monitors drivers’ eyes to ensure they stay awake and suggests when to take a break from driving; Adaptive High Beam Assist, which detects when to turn the high beams on and off; and Park Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. Additionally, the C-Class debuts Mercedes’ new connectivity system with better mobile phone and MP3 player integration including text message display and music streaming via Bluetooth or a USB-input mounted in the center armrest.

In keeping with the industry trend (and government regulations), Mercedes made a number of efforts to reduce fuel consumption with the new C-Class. To that end, the German automaker revised the powertrain offerings on the 2012 C-Class. Every engine offered is now equipped with direct injection and Mercedes’ seven-speed automatic with revised gear ratios for better fuel economy. This marks the departure of a six-speed manual as a transmission option, leaving the SLK300 as the only Benz offered with a third pedal in the States.

While the manual transmission departs the C-Class, the four-cylinder power returns for the first time since 2006. The I-4 is found in the base C250 model, displaces 1.8-liters, and uses twin-turbos to produce 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque. This will scoot the C-Class to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds according to Mercedes and achieve 24 mpg combined. The next trim level is the C300 4Matic with a 3.0-liter V-6 producing 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. According to Mercedes, the C300 4Matic will match the C250’s 0 to 60 mph time, but is only rated at 20 mpg combined.

The rang-topping engine, at least until the outrageous AMG model is introduced, resides in the C350 and is a new, 3.5-liter V-6 that puts out 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Equipped as such, the C-Class will get to 60 mph in 5.9 seconds and achieve an estimated 21 mpg combined. Thanks to the addition of standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive, the C300’s fuel economy actually decreases by 1 mpg, but the C350 gains 1 mpg. The C250 is new for the 2012 model year.

“In terms of driveline and safety systems, the new-generation C-Class offers the comfort and safety of our luxury vehicles -- and with many high-end details in the interior evocative of the new CLS, the new C-Class sets completely new benchmarks in its segment when it comes to premium look-and-feel,” says Dr. Joachim Schmidt, executive vice president of Mercedes-Benz Cars’ sales and marketing.

2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2011-02-21T11:13:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $33,990 - $39,990

Invoice: $31,611 - $37,191

MPG: 18 City / 26 Hwy

Overview

The C-Class is Mercedes Benz's entry vehicle. The model got a refreshment in 2008, but the 2011 configurations only sport a few alterations. The C-Class has roots derived from the S-Class. The C-Class is offered in a sedan body style only and the smallest coupe that the carmaker offers is the E-Class. The C-Class competes with the BMW 3 Series sedan, wagon, and coupe as well as the Audi A4 sedan and wagon. Nevertheless, the C-Class is the least versatile vehicle in the segment, particularly when compared to BMW offerings. The car's design is a concentration on comfort and less so on handling.The sedan is offered in several configurations. Car buyers can opt for the V-8 AMG engine churning out 451 horsepower or the V-6 engine. The C300 C-Class is offered in Sport and Luxury grades. The C300 is the only configuration offered with a six speed manual tranny and all wheel drive. It also comes with a seven speed auto tranny option, an offering shared with the C350. However, the C63 sports a different seven speed tranny.

Other Cars to Consider

Buyers shopping for an aggressive performance machine should expand their search. That’s just not the C-Class’s strongest suit. Cars like are highly regarded for their performance. However, those models sacrifice to provide drivers with the sportiest experience.

If you’re more interested in cars that deliver more luxury, are the best bets. Both the Cadillac and Lexus carefully balance performance and luxury while injecting handsome styling. These aren’t cars that your grandparents would drive. With their balance of comfort and performance, the Cadillac CTS and Lexus IS are the closest competitors to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class: The Details

For 2011, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class is available with two different powertrains: a 3.0-liter V6 in the C300 and the 3.5-liter V6-equipped C350. The C300 is available in two trim levels -- Luxury and Sport -- while C350s are only available in Sport trim. Additionally, if you live in areas with wet weather conditions, you may want to consider the 4MATIC all-wheel drive option on the C300.

The high-performance , packing over 450 horsepower, is reviewed separately.

"In a recent comparison test of $38,000 sports sedans, a C300 Sport took on the BMW 328i, Cadillac CTS, and Infiniti G35. The Mercedes finished last, but that result isn't quite as bad as it looks given the stellar competition. The C300 impressed us with its solidity, subdued mechanicals, supple ride, and easy-to-use navigation and radio controls. The last-place finish is largely due to the car's smaller size, unimpressive interior materials, and bias toward luxury.
"Impeccably built to a standard befitting its legendary status, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an impressive luxury car. At the same time, the C-Class's pricing tends to be higher than its rivals despite giving away a bit in terms of performance.
"Considering that the closest competitors are the Audi A4 (wagon and sedan) and BMW 3 Series (coupe, sedan, and wagon), this appears to be the least varied line in its class, and compared with the 3 Series, skews more toward comfort than handling.

8.4 (Very Good)

Although the C-Class is armed with two capable V6 engines, it still has a tough time keeping up with rivals in the . While the C-Class isn’t sluggish, reviewers are mixed on whether its power is enough when its competition has more.

9.0 (Excellent)

The C-Class commands a presence on the road with its large grille, big headlights and stately sheetmetal. Many testers liken its look to the much more expensive S-Class, which means the C-Class’s crisp lines make it appear more expensive than it really is.

7.5 (Good)

While the C-Class’s exterior receives applause from nearly all testers, the interior gets mixed reviews. Some critics say that the hard-edged design and materials seem cheap, while others say it is beautifully crafted and appropriate for its price point.

NA

Although the 2011 and 2010 Mercedes-Benz C-Class have not been fully tested by the , thenamed the 2011 C-Class a “Top Safety Pick” for earning top scores across the board and its standard electronic stability control.

NA

Although in recent years Mercedes-Benz has dealt with reliability issues, new data suggests that the brand is taking care of the problem. The C-Class is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile

2010 Mazda Tribute

2011-02-21T11:06:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $20,405

Overview

The 2010 Mazda Tribute maintains many of the niceties found in the 2009 model. Yet, the newer model has several additional and minor changes to the outmoded 2009 SUV; the latter of which proved to have an aging design. The Mazda Tribute has reconfigured Ford Escape design leading to its appeal. The carmaker claims that the Tribute is a traditional sport SUV offering a lot of styling. In truth, the vehicle is larger, simplified and it lacks in terms of style.The Mazda Tribute is offered in four trims: the i Sport, the i Grand Touring, the i Touring, and the s Grand Touring. The carmaker has engineered 300 Tribute Hybrid Electric units that uses a Euro Escapes hybrid drivetrain for California residents as well. All trims are offered with one of two engines: the 3.0 Liter V-6 or the 2.5 Liter Inline-four.The Mazda Tribute is a soft, dependable Roadster. It's a great sports utility vehicle since it has smaller dimensions when compared to alternative SUVs. It is also offered with an Active Torque Control Coupling system (ATTC).

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mazda Tribute is a compact crossover SUV broken down into i and s models that correspond with the four- and six-cylinder engines. The i variant is offered in Sport, Touring and Grand Touring trim levels, while the s version is offered as a Grand Touring only.
The base-level Sport comes with 16-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlamps, air-conditioning, full power accessories, an ambient temperature gauge, cruise control, a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack. The Touring adds a roof rack, tinted rear windows, a power driver seat and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. The Grand Touring gains a sunroof, heated side mirrors, leather upholstery, heated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a back-up camera (with the display shown in the rearview mirror) and an upgraded sound system (with a six-CD changer and satellite radio).
Satellite radio is optional on the Touring, while remote engine start and a towing package are among the items that are optional on all three trim levels.

Powertrains and Performance

All Mazda Tribute models can be equipped with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Tribute i gets a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 171 horsepower and 171 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard on the Sport trim; a six-speed automatic is optional on the Sport and standard on the others. The Tribute s versions have a 3.0-liter V6 (good for 240 hp and 233 lb-ft) that comes paired to a six-speed automatic.
Fuel economy with the 2.5/automatic powertrain and front-wheel drive rates 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 24 mpg combined. All-wheel drive drops that to 20/26/23 mpg. With the V6 and front-wheel drive, the numbers stand at 19/25/21. The V6 with all-wheel drive rates 18/23/20.

Safety

The 2010 Mazda Tribute comes with an impressive portfolio of standard safety equipment including front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, antilock brakes, stability control and traction control. Unfortunately, the Escape is hampered by poor braking performance. From 60 mph, the last Escape we tested stopped in a lackluster 128 feet.
In government crash tests, the Tribute scored five stars in all frontal and side impact categories. In Insurance Institute for Highway Safety testing, the Tribute scored the top rating of "Good" for frontal offset and side impact crash protection.

Interior Design and Special Features

For the most part, the Tribute's cabin is virtually identical to that of the Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner. Unless you're a devout Mazda fan, this isn't really a bad thing, as the control layout and build quality are generally impressive. The climate and stereo controls are split, with readouts placed high atop the dash in legible blue and white characters. Unfortunately, the Tribute does not offer the innovative Sync electronics interface system that is such a strong selling point in the Escape and Mariner.
The Tribute's front seats are well-bolstered and comfortable. The rear seat, although roomy enough for adults, is flat and devoid of recline and fore-and-aft adjustments. Folding that seat down is a bit of a chore, too, as the headrests must be removed and the bottom cushions tipped forward before the seatbacks can be lowered. Cargo space stands at 29 cubic feet behind the second row and 66 cubes with the second row folded. This is more than what's available in competitors such as the Nissan Rogue and Saturn Vue but less than what's offered by the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4.

2010 Mazda 6 Grand Touring

2011-02-21T11:04:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $26,085

The Mazda 6 is a fine car if you're looking for a mid-size family sedan. The V-6 is strong and smooth, the six-speed automatic selects gears smartly and without drama, and the ride is comfortable without being flaccid. Mazda also has the best-looking car in the segment with those dynamic, shapely fenders. Yet, when Mazda enlarged their American-market mid-sizer for the 2009 model year, they lost the biggest thing they had going for them: a car that supported their uniquely sporty image. Unlike the engaging Mazda 3, the 6 doesn't have that nimble, faster-than-it-actually-is feel.

Since last year's sales numbers aren't comparable to previous years, we can't say if the upsizing is paying off. However, I do know that the auto market can't support every Mazda, Suzuki, or Mitsubishi as a mainstream manufacturer. If you want your brand to embrace a niche ideal, you have to be willing to accept the niche market. I hope

The larger and more sophisticated Mazda6 is aimed squarely at the other Japanese family sedans that dominate the mid-size car segment in North America.
Buyers can choose between two engines, a 170-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 272-hp 3.7-liter V6 engine. The 2.5 can be teamed with either a six-speed manual or optional five-speed automatic, while the V6 is bolted exclusively to a six-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety equipment includes tire pressure monitoring, anti-lock brakes, electronic stability and traction control, side-impact and side-curtain airbags, while a blind spot monitoring system is standard on Touring Plus and Grand Touring trims.
For 2010, a new Touring Plus trim joins the line-up, and a new Technology Package is available on the Grand Touring.

2010 Mazda MAZDA6

2011-02-21T10:59:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $19,610 - $28,975

Invoice: $18,138 - $26,757

MPG: 20 City / 29 Hwy

Introduction

The was all-new for 2009, completely redesigned and re-engineered. Its launch was lost in the recession, but it carries into 2010 as one of the most appealing midsize sedans on the market. It looks great inside and out, offers a wide range of popular features, delivers commendable fuel economy, and is very well finished. Mainly, it delivers sparkling performance and is a terrific driving experience among midsize sedans. It's also attractively priced.The Mazda6 is roomy inside. It delivers plenty of room for four or five adults, along with a big trunk that holds as much as can be fitted under the cargo covers of some SUVs.
It is available with a choice of a four-cylinder or six-cylinder engine, each one responsive and efficient. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder has 170 horsepower and 167 pound-feet of torque and is EPA-rated at 21 mpg City, 30 mpg Highway with the six-speed manual transmission and 20/29 mpg with the five-speed automatic. Drivers seeking fuel efficiency over performance will find both with this four-cylinder engine. The 3.7-liter V6 makes 272 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque, delivers extraordinary performance and is still EPA-rated at a commendable 17/25 mpg, City/Highway. The V6 is among the most powerful in its class and is a delight to drive.

Other Cars to Consider

Shoppers looking at mid-size sedans should be sure to give the a look. While they are less sporty than the Mazda6, the Accord has a great reputation for reliability and the Sonata is a great value. If a good driving experience is important make sure to check out the . The Altima is similarly sized and priced but offers better rated fuel economy of 23/32 compared to the Mazda’s 22/31 in four-cylinder models, and fuel economy ratings of 20/27 to the Mazda’s 18/27 in V6 models.

The is also worth a look. It is also noted for its livelier handling and offers options such as Ford’s well-liked SYNC hands-free technology system.

Mazda6: The Details

The 2011 Mazda6 is available in four trim levels with two different engines. Four-cylinder models are designated as “i” models and are available in Sport, Touring, Touring Plus and Grand Touring. Six-cylinder models, designated as “s,” are available in Touring Plus and Grand Touring trims. New for 2011, the Mazda6 sports revised headlights and fog lights, new 17-inch wheels and a revised steering wheel. Touring Plus and Grand Touring models are also equipped with new folding side mirrors that incorporate turn signals. Grand Touring models also receive a new 4.3-inch Multi-Information display that includes a rear-view camera and Bluetooth standard.

The Mazda6 comes standard with cruise control, remote keyless entry, and stability and traction control.

"Mazda's midsize front-wheel-drive sedan benefits from a sportier nature than some of its competitors."
""There's not much to complain about, with subpar fuel economy and the use of some chintzy plastics in the cabin being the car's only notable drawbacks"

"If you love driving and need a family sedan, take a look at the 6. Lively steering and good body control are its hallmarks.

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Mazda6 continues Mazda’s mantra of “Zoom-Zoom.” Reviewers cite good handling, but are disappointed in the rather sluggish performance of the base four-cylinder engine.

9.2 (Excellent)

The 2011 Mazda6’s exterior is far sportier than the norm for the class. Reviewers seem to like the styling which doesn’t compromise interior room but still emphasizes style.

8.5 (Very Good)

The interior of the 2011 Mazda6 is a comfortable place to be. Reviews cite roomy interior accommodations as a positive, though they do note some cheaper materials.

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Mazda6 has yet to be tested. The gives the 2011 Mazda6 a rating of “Good” in both front and side impact ratings.

NA

Mazda protects 2011 Mazda6 buyers with a three-year/36,000-mile limited

2010 Mazda Mazda6

2011-02-21T10:53:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $19,610 - $28,975

Invoice: $18,138 - $26,757

MPG: 20 City / 29 Hwy

Overview

The midsized 2010 Mazda6 offers the vehicle buyer plenty for their money. The Mazda6's cabin is impeccable; it has superior handling, and it has loads of amenities to offer. The most recent model of the Mazda6 entered the 2009 market. The sedan sports superior on the road manners and exceptional handling too.Under the hood, the car has a 2.5-Liter, Four cylinder, 170 horsepower engine with 137 ft-lbs of torque. The car is also sold with the option of getting a 3.7 Liter V-6 engine with 272 horsepower and 269 ft-lbs of torque. The latter motor is married to a six-speed manual tranny in the standard configuration. Either variant delivers outstanding fuel efficiency and equally satisfying responsiveness.The car's interior has features like a navigation system in addition to Bluetooth options. This vehicle is a leader in its class. It has cargo space equaling 16.6 cubic feet in the vehicle's rear. If more space is needed the car buyer can opt for a 60-40 split folding seat layout. The Mazda6 is a great selection for comfort, speed, and exceptional handling.

Other Cars to Consider

Shoppers looking at mid-size sedans should be sure to give
a look. While they are less sporty than the Mazda6, the Accord has a great reputation for reliability and the Sonata is a great value. If a good driving experience is important make sure to check

. The Altima is similarly sized and priced but offers better rated fuel economy of 23/32 compared to the Mazda’s 22/31 in four-cylinder models, and fuel economy ratings of 20/27 to the Mazda’s 18/27 in V6 models.
The is also worth a look. It is also noted for its livelier handling and offers options such as Ford’s well-liked SYNC hands-free technology system.

Mazda6: The Details

"Mazda's midsize front-wheel-drive sedan benefits from a sportier nature than some of its competitors."
""There's not much to complain about, with subpar fuel economy and the use of some chintzy plastics in the cabin being the car's only notable drawbacks"

"If you love driving and need a family sedan, take a look at the 6. Lively steering and good body control are its hallmarks.

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Mazda6 continues Mazda’s mantra of “Zoom-Zoom.” Reviewers cite good handling, but are disappointed in the rather sluggish performance of the base four-cylinder engine.

9.2 (Excellent)

The 2011 Mazda6’s exterior is far sportier than the norm for the class. Reviewers seem to like the styling which doesn’t compromise interior room but still emphasizes style.

8.5 (Very Good)

The interior of the 2011 Mazda6 is a comfortable place to be. Reviews cite roomy interior accommodations as a positive, though they do note some cheaper materials.

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Mazda6 has yet to be tested by the gives the 2011 Mazda6 a rating of “Good” in both front and side impact ratings.

NA

Mazda protects 2011 Mazda6 buyers with a three-year/36,000-mile limited

2010 Mazda RX-8

2011-02-21T10:43:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $26,645

Overview

The Mazda RX-8 is the only car that exists with a rotary powered system today. The 2010 configuration sports a 1.3 Liter Renesis rotary engine churning out 230 horsepower. The vehicle has a six speed manual/auto tranny.The Mazda RX-8 is visually pleasing and it offers spectacular performance. The vehicle is well tuned and sports a high revving, twin rotor motor, the latter of which remains the same in earlier configurations despite the minor upscaling of the vehicle in 2009. Car buyers get a corner clinging car, but the Mazda RX-8 is substandard in terms of torque and fuel economy.The Mazda RX-8 has three trims: the Sport, the R3, and the Grand Touring. The Mazda RX-8 has an exceptional interior cabin, and it is user friendly, modern, and fresh. Passengers get plenty of leg and headroom too. Features include the three spoke steering wheel with a great ergonomic fit. Ingress and egress is easy in the Mazda RX-8 since it has freestyle doors. There's plenty of room when loading cargo or when passengers are entering and exiting the vehicle.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mazda RX-8 is a four-seat coupe with a pair of rear-hinged access doors. There are three trim levels: Sport, Grand Touring and R3.
The base Sport features 18-inch wheels and performance tires, a rear lip spoiler (manual-transmission models only), air-conditioning, cruise control, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shifter, full power accessories and a six-speaker stereo with CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The Grand Touring trim adds a limited-slip rear differential, automatic xenon headlights, foglights, heated side mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, a sunroof, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, an eight-way power driver seat with memory, heated front seats, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and a nine-speaker Bose surround-sound system (with satellite radio and a six-CD changer).
The high-performance R3 trim level has a handful of the Grand Touring features (such as xenon headlights, Bluetooth, keyless ignition/entry and the Bose audio system) and adds a more aggressively tuned suspension, 19-inch wheels, a rear wing spoiler, a restyled front bumper and Recaro front sport seats.
The lone option is a touchscreen navigation system (with voice commands) for the Grand Touring.

Powertrains and Performance

The rear-wheel-drive Mazda RX-8 is powered by a 1.3-liter rotary engine. The engine's output depends on the transmission selected. Models with the six-speed automatic (with paddle shifters) receive 212 horsepower and a redline of 7,500 rpm. The six-speed manual version has 232 hp and an atmospheric redline of 9,000 rpm. All RX-8 engines produce a rather meager 152 pound-feet of torque.
Although generally quick by most measures, acceleration is hardly impressive for a sports car. In our tests, a manual-equipped RX-8 went from zero to 60 mph in 7 seconds. Fuel economy is unimpressive at 16 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined for a manual-equipped RX-8.

Safety

The 2010 Mazda RX-8 comes standard with antilock brakes, front side airbags and front side curtain airbags. Stability control isn't offered on the Sport trim but is standard on the Grand Touring and R3. In government crash testing, the RX-8 earned a four-star rating (out of a possible five) for driver protection in frontal impacts and five stars for the front passenger. In side-impact testing, the RX-8 received four stars.

Interior Design and Special Features

Giving the 2010 RX-8 a serious advantage over class rivals is its true four-passenger capacity. The Mazda-dubbed "free style" reverse-opening rear doors -- they're of the same design that many extended-cab compact pickups have -- make loading people and cargo much easier. Provided they are shorter than 6 feet tall, passengers seated in the back will find supportive seating and ample room all around. The rear compartment is equally accommodating for luggage or grocery bags. The trunk is a different matter, as its opening is small and no flip-down rear seat function exists to increase luggage capacity.
The RX-8's cockpit features a circular theme, with three round gauges and a circular central dash control stack that houses the stereo and climate control functions. Look closely and you'll also spot numerous triangle details throughout the cabin, a visual homage to the car's rotary engine design. Although the gauges are easily read, we have mixed feelings about the central display used for the audio system and climate control, which some find to be too crowded with information. The optional navigation system is operated through a touchscreen and voice recognition interface, which works well.

Driving Impressions

Although the 2010 Mazda RX-8 has the look of a race-tuned sports car, its demeanor on the road is considerably more docile. There's plenty of grip in the corners and solid feedback through the steering wheel, but its compliant ride means that the RX-8 won't beat you up on the daily commute. The rotary engine requires high engine speeds to make serious power, but the delivery is virtually vibration-free and noise levels are subdued. If you like a smooth engine (in feel, sound and power delivery), there's none smoother. Overall, the RX-8 is one of the best examples of a car that's both fun to drive and very livable on a day-to-day basis -- just be prepared to pay at the pump.

2010 Mazda Miata

2011-02-21T10:38:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $22,960 - $29,500

Overview

Car buyers will definitely appreciate the Mazda MX-5 Miata; the vehicle proves popular due to its amazing style and agility. This vehicle is really a roadster underneath it all, and it's a fast, visually appealing convertible.The MX-5 Miata is easy to spot and it is one of the most appealing cars in the world. It has been on the market since 1990, and since that time, 850,000 units have been sold. Car buyers adore the MX-5 Miata's high performance, exceptional value, and practicality. Today, it offers greater versatility too, and the carmaker sells the vehicle with a user friendly, hardtop roof option as well.Exciting and affordable, the MX-5 Miata has swagger. This MX-5 Miata has been engineers so it retains the best attributes of a compact vehicle. The lowest priced Sport-based grade is still well executed. Every trim sports a 2.0-Liter Inline-four churning 158 or 167 horsepower depending on the tranny selected. Available gearboxes include the 5 or 6-speed manual or the 6-speed auto. Niceties include the Induction Sound Enhancer that routes intake resonance to the cowl.

The 2010 Miata’s four-cylinder engine is very responsive and rev-happy, with sports car-perfect handling, quick short-ratio steering, and short-throw manual transmissions that are a joy to run through the gears. Beginning in 2009, the combination became even more enjoyable with redline for the engine pushed up and new carbon-coated synchros for the gearbox.
At the top of the Miata range is a PRHT (power retractable hardtop) model, which is very well executed; when the hardtop is retracted and folded away, the Miata still has 5.3 cubic feet of trunk space. While that’s much smaller than any sedan, it’s large enough for most overnight bags or a couple of duffels. The PRHT model adds very little extra weight, and the top stows away in just 12 seconds; unlike some other hardtop models, it doesn’t hamper the fun.

The Range

Bodystyles: Convertible
Engines: 2.0L I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
Models: Sport, Touring, Grand Touring

What's New

For 2010 the MX-5 loses its Sport model with power retractable hardtop (PRHT), Havana brown interior, as well as the marble white exterior. Hardtop Touring and Grand Touring editions receive chrome door handles and chrome headlamp bezels. Also new for PRHT models are top control buttons set above the stereo.

Exterior

The MX-5 continues to demonstrate a compact and cute round form that's both attractive and lightweight. Head and taillights are placed inboard to accentuate the compactness. As a whole, the MX-5 is attractive and modern -- you'll just have to get used to the grinning grille that has become a signature Mazda design cue.

Interior

A three-spoke steering wheel, air conditioning, bucket seats, and silver trim are standard on Sport models. Opt for the Touring trim and a leather shift knob, cruise control, and power windows are added to the two-seater's cabin. A Bose audio system and heated seats also entertain and provide comfort for Grand Touring drivers.

Performance & Handling

The MX-5's power isn't overwhelming, but it gets the job done. The front mid-ship engine layout, mixed with rear wheel drive and a scant curb weight between 2400 and 2550 pounds, means gobs of grip and phenomenal cornering ability. Use of aluminum throughout allows for smooth weight transitions and predictable tracking. If you want the best performance bang for your buck, go for the MX-5's Suspension package that adds Bilstein shocks and a limited slip differential.

Safety

All MX-5 models get dual front airbags and side impact airbags, There's also a engine immobilized, anti-lock brakes, and side impact door beams.

EPA Fuel Economy

Sport (manual): 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway
Touring, Grand Touring (manual): 21 mpg city/28 mpg highway
Touring, Grand Touring (automatic): 21mpg city/28 mpg highway

2010 Mazda Mazdaspeed3

2011-02-21T10:33:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $23,340 - $23,340

Invoice: $21,851 - $21,851

MPG: 18 City / 25 Hwy

Overview

If you want a awesome looking hatch, then the Mazdaspeed3 is ideal. The Mazdaspeed3 delivers a good price, superior style, and impeccable prowess. The Mazdaspeed3 has a 2.3 Liter turbocharged engine churning out 263 horsepower in the 2010 model. The engine is a carryover from earlier versions. The motor in the Mazdaspeed3 is joined to the 6-speed, close ratio gearbox. This car might lag in terms of torque steer, but it is definitely agile on the road.The Mazdaspeed3's style makes it appealing. Of course, it has Mazda's emblematic smiling front grille; aside from this, the styling is exceptional. The back of the car sports flared haunches, it has a 18-inch wheel structure, and the Mazdaspeed3's side skirts are beautifully sculpted. The Mazdaspeed3 has a front locate intercooler scoop as well as a rear spoiler. The latter improves the car's already spectacular performance.The Mazdaspeed3 has a cabin a lot like the Mazda3. The car has LED boost gauge features, bolstered front seats and red and black interior contrasts. The navigation system is mediocre however because its screen is undersized.

The Bottom Line

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 makes a great choice for anyone in the market for an affordable sports car that’s easy to live with.
Still, serious car shoppers should test drive the similarly-priced before making a final decision. Like the 2010 Mazdaspeed3, it features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that generates 265 horsepower -- two more than its Mazda counterpart. The 2010 Mazdaspeed3, however, provides a lot more torque at a lower range of rpm. While both vehicles are dynamic performers, the Subaru is equipped with a standard all-wheel drive system, which provides more traction and capability in adverse weather conditions.
Drivers seeking an affordable car with a sporty feel, but not necessarily sports car performance, should consider instead.

Performance Dynamics

Test drivers are impressed with the 2010 Mazdaspeed3's quick acceleration and balanced handling. It shines as both a back-road burner and grocery getter with a bad boy edge.
The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 is equipped with a 2.3-liter Direct Injection Spark Ignition Turbocharged I4 engine. It produces 263-horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 280 pound-feet of torque at 3,000 rpm. A close-ratio six-speed manual transmission with a short-throw shifter is standard. According to Mazda, the 2010 Mazdaspeed3 has a top speed of 155 mph. reports that it can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 nets an-estimated city/highway fuel economy of 18/25 mpg.
The front-wheel drive 2010 Mazdaspeed3’s performance abilities are aided by an electro-hydraulic power assist steering system, four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, Electronic Brakeforce Distribution and Brake Assist. A sport-tuned exhaust system is also standard.
For 2010, the Mazdaspeed3’s power remains unchanged. However, its performance is enhanced with minor -- but effective -- changes to its gear ratio, suspension tuning, torque-management system and steering set up. The result is less torque steer, more road feel and better ride quality.

"Powered by a 2.3-liter DISI (direct injection) turbo powerplant putting out 263-horsepower and 280 lb-ft. of torque, the Mazdaspeed3 makes the list of cars that provide as much fun as you can have with your clothes on. Step on the loud pedal and a raspy (albeit four-cylinder, higher-pitched) note starts to sing from the engine room.
"This five-door hatchback is a real kick. The 263-horsepower, turbocharged engine has a power band that is so elastic and linear that the four-cylinder will blast through the gears with grin-inducing speed or accelerate steadily from less than 2,000 rpm in fifth or sixth gear. That flexibility makes Mazda's hot compact a ton of fun for daily driving or a vigorous romp through the countryside.
"Powered by a fervid, phat-with-torque turbocharged four-cylinder engine (263 hp) and strung with a cat's cradle of stiff springs and struts, sticky 18-inch tires and big brakes, the Mazdaspeed3 can throw you around like an LAX baggage handler.… Hook a 12-volt car battery to a Meyer lemon. Take a bite. That's what the Mazdaspeed3 feels like. Sweet, tart, electrifying.
"The MazdaSpeed is very quick, but acceleration is blunted by turbo lag. The clutch is stiff on this model, and the shifter is tricky to modulate in heavy traffic.
"There's still some steering-wheel tug at wide-open throttle-the official line is that a little torque steer adds to the fun-but it's not the wrestling match of 2007-09 models.
"With increased roll control, the MS3 handles more precisely, yet with less of its former self's kidney-thumping feel over larger bumps. Skidpad is a solid 0.90g, up from 0.86. Under power, steering still gives unsolicited suggestions to your cornering line, but this time the torque steer is less extroverted.
+"The previous MS3 was already our favorite high-performance hatchback, but Mazda's engineers felt that its suspension was in need of an overhaul, as it had a tendency to get unsettled over bumps and around pockmarked corners. The result of their efforts is impressive: Not only does the 2010 Mazdaspeed 3 ride noticeably better than its predecessor, it also slithers through our slalom cones a whopping 4.6 mph faster.
"This is a performance car. The turbocharged engine spools up quickly, but not frighteningly so. The improved transmission is well-matched to the engine's power. Cornering is precise, the electro-hydraulic power steering feel is just right, and the four-wheel disc brakes are up to the task.

The Range

Bodystyles: Four-door hatchback
Engines: 2.3L turbocharged I-4
Transmissions: 6-speed manual
Models: Sport

What's New

For 2010, the Mazdaspeed3 gets a revised cooling system designed to improve power delivery, along with taller second through sixth gears. A recalibrated torque management system allows for improved steering control and torque application, and also helps to mitigate torque steer (although it remains an issue). The use of higher strength steel up front on crucial safety areas and suspension components ups rigidity by some two percent.

Exterior

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 is aggressive at any angle, yet stylish and functional. The 18-inch wheels mimic those of the RX-8 R3 and help to lend the hatchback a wider, lower stance.

Interior

Significant standard features on the Mazdaspeed3 include Bluetooth connectivity, three-spoke steering wheel with red stitching, dual zone climate control, and 60/40 folding rear seats. A six-speaker audio system and Mazdaspeed-badged door sills come with the model as well.

Performance & Handling

The 2.3-liter turbocharged four responds quickly to throttle inputs and puts its power down well. The stiffer springs, harder dampers, and stickier performance rubber provide a surprising amount of grip for a front-wheel drive car. Blasting off from a standstill is a fun endeavor when the turbo kicks in at full boost. An all-wheel drive option is rumored to be in the works and would further add to the Mazdaspeed3's appeal, not to mention performance.

Safety

Dual front and side airbags are standard for the Mazdaspeed3, along with anti-lock brakes (ABS), dynamic stability control, traction control, and collapsable steering column.

2010 Mazda Mazda5

2011-02-21T10:27:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $18,510 - $23,240

Invoice: $17,344 - $21,755

MPG: 22 City / 28 Hwy

Overview

The Mazda5 minivan for 2010 is an attractive offering; it is an exceptional minivan. Although there are other vehicles with superior features and great looks, the Mazda5 is a standalone option. This vehicle's package is clean, it has impeccable features, and the sliding rear doors make for easy ingress and egress. This minivan is functional, spacious, attractive, and it has a great price too.The Mazda5 minivan was designed with the concept of comfort in mind, from exterior to interior. The vehicle proves very spacious and it has plenty of power under the hood. The vehicle has a 2.3 Liter Four cylinder engine married to a five speed auto or manual tranny. The minivan has sufficient space for cargo, a third row, 50/50 split seat, a flexible seating layout, and a captain's chair row as well.The upper Grand Touring grade is sold with a navigation system option. The Mazda5 has many fantastic appointments including things like a 17 inch wheel structure, a rear opening hatch with dual stage functions, air conditions, and remote doors with matching body colors.

Other Minivans to Consider

The Mazda5's small size means that it handles well, but is short on passenger space. There are seats for six, but some reviewers say those seats are tight, and when they're all in place, cargo room suffers. If you need more passenger and cargo room, and want an all-around more comfortable interior, check out the The downside of the Odyssey is that it costs almost $10,000 more than the Mazda5.
However, not all of your other options are so expensive. The is similar to the 5 in space, and starts at around the same price. It's a large wagon with three rows of seats, so it doesn't have the Mazda5's sliding doors. However, it's got a roomier interior seats seven instead of five, and comes with lots of standards. It's not as much fun to drive as the Mazda5, but for practicality, the two are neck and neck.

Details: Mazda5

The 5 is available in three trims, the Sport, Touring and Grand Touring, all of which have the same four-cylinder engine.

"Mazda 5 deserves consideration as a well-made, sensibly sized wagon that's sedan sporty, minivan versatile, and priced right. This solid choice also offers good fuel economy and outstanding room for four plus lots of stuff--four adults, a little cargo and, in the 3rd-row seats, two tykes.
"The 2010 Mazda 5 is a smart alternative for families interested in trading a full-size minivan's substantial utility for a lower price tag, greater maneuverability and lower fuel costs.
"It fits neatly into tight spaces. It presents no visual obstruction to other drivers. But it can carry six passengers and judicious amounts of their stuff."
"The 5 has an unmistakably road-friendly character apparent in its responses and ease of parking, and the edge in visibility doesn't hurt.
"As small vehicles go, this one's big. And as minivans go, this one's cool.

- 8.0 (Very Good)

says the "Mazda 5 is surprisingly sporty," though many agree that the powertrain could use some extra zoom-zoom. Though, in a class not known for performance, it gets the job done.

7.5 (Good)

Caught somewhere between being a minivan and being a wagon, the 2010 Mazda5 has a bit of an identity crisis. Its polarizing looks insure that most people will have an opinion on it, one way or the other. Its distinctive sliding doors make life a little easier for families and for those occasions where you have to squeeze into a tight parking spot.

7.4 (Good)

The 2010 Mazda 5 sports an efficient, functional interior. Though there are three rows of seats, it only holds six people. Most minivans or wagons and SUVs with three rows of seats hold seven.

9.6 (Excellent)

The 2010 Mazda5 gets solid scores across the board in government crash tests.

4.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Mazda Mazda5 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Mazda provides a limited for the Mazda5 for three years or 36,000 miles.

2010 Mazda Mazda3

2011-02-21T10:19:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $12,772

Overview

The 2010 Mazda3 is an all new configuration; now the carmaker has added the MZR four cylinder engine so the vehicle is sporty and fast. The Mazda3 comes in a four door sedan or five door hatchback configuration. It is in its second generation competing in the compact vehicle segment. The front of the car has the emblematic smiling grille by Mazda too. The body has deep flanks, a flowing style, and it is appealing and handsome.The Mazda3 has a strong powertrain and look. The Mazda3i as well as the Mazda3i SV configurations host a 2.0 Liter Inline Four motor. The Mazda3 however, has a larger 2.5 Liter 4 cylinder engine. The latter is married to a manual or auto tranny. This car has great response, it is an exhilarating drive, and it delivers 10% more fuel efficiency than previous models do.The Mazda3 is a five seater and the passenger room is generous. The vehicle is well executed and hosts an AM, FM, CD stereo, bucket front seats, four speakers, a three spoke steering wheel, and power windows.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Mazda 3 is available in four-door compact sedan and hatchback body styles.
The 3i model (sedan only) is offered in SV, Sport and Touring trim levels. Standard equipment includes 16-inch steel wheels, a 60/40 fold-down rear seatback, height-adjustable driver seat, tilt-and-telescoping steering column, power windows and mirrors, and a four-speaker stereo with a CD player, an auxiliary audio jack and steering-wheel controls. The 3i Sport adds air-conditioning, a temperature display and the option of an automatic transmission. The 3i Touring adds 16-inch alloy wheels, remote keyless entry, power door locks, cruise control, Bluetooth phone and audio connection, and a six-speaker stereo.
The 3s Sport (available as sedan and hatchback) adds to the 3i Touring a bigger engine, different front and rear fascias, 17-inch alloy wheels, foglights, dual exhausts, rear lip spoiler, more aggressively bolstered front seats, upgraded upholstery, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, trip computer and electroluminescent gauges. The 3s Grand Touring adds automatic bi-xenon headlights with auto-leveling and corner swivel illumination, heated side mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, leather upholstery and an eight-way power driver seat with driver memory functions.
Optional on the 3i Touring and all 3s trims is the Moonroof & Bose package that adds a sunroof and a 10-speaker surround-sound system with an in-dash six-CD changer. The Tech package available on the 3s includes keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio and a navigation system with steering wheel controls and a small, high-mounted display screen. Satellite radio is also a dealer-installed option on any Mazda 3, as is an iPod interface.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Mazda 3i comes with a 2.0-liter inline-4 that produces 148 hp and 135 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional on all but the 3i SV. Estimated fuel economy is 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway with the automatic -- the manual improves by 1 mpg city. This is a few miles per gallon less on the highway than class leaders.
The Mazda 3s is powered by a 2.5-liter inline-4 good for 167 hp and 168 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual is standard here, with a five-speed automatic optional. In performance testing, a manual-equipped 3s went from zero to 60 mph in 7.9 seconds. Estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway with the automatic (21 mpg city with the manual). Both fuel economy and acceleration are on par with similarly powerful small cars.

Safety

Standard safety equipment on the 2010 Mazda 3 includes antilock disc brakes with brake assist, active front head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Stability and traction control are standard on all trims above 3i Touring, and not available on the 3i SV and 3i Sport. In testing, the 3s Grand Touring came to a stop from 60 mph in 127 feet -- a decent performance for this type of car.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Mazda 3 is a class leader in terms of interior design, quality and feature content. Most Mazda 3 sedans and hatchbacks won't be optioned-out Grand Touring models, but they'll still greet their owners with high-quality materials, comfortable seats, ample space and easy-to-reach controls. However, the stereo controls in particular aren't as simple as those in a Civic or Elantra. The optional navigation system features a relatively small display screen, but it's mounted high and costs much less than rival systems.
The Mazda 3 sedan is less spacious than its competitors, but only slightly so. The front seat offers a wide range of adjustment (especially with the optional power seats), and the tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel is a welcome feature. Taller drivers should note that the optional sunroof chews into front headroom considerably. The 3 hatchback would be our body style choice, since it offers all the sedan's high points while adding a greater level of practicality. Trunk space is 17 cubic feet with the hatch, but only 11.8 with the sedan.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Mazda 3 has refined road manners that will likely come as a pleasant surprise to most economy car shoppers. Thanks to its performance-oriented chassis tuning, the 3 is blessed with minimal body roll and a healthy amount of grip on twisty blacktop, and the steering is quick and communicative. In the real world, this translates into a greater sense of driver confidence. The 3's highway ride is smooth enough to please most commuters, although drivers who prefer softly sprung compacts like the Toyota Corolla might think the 3 is too firm.
The beefed-up 2.5-liter engine in 3s models is the same one that powers the midsize Mazda 6. It's a wise choice for driving enthusiasts or those downsizing from a bigger, more powerful car. The smaller four-cylinder found in the 3i still isn't quite as fuel-efficient as those found in the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla, but it's a bit more powerful.

2010 Lotus Elise

2011-02-21T10:14:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $47,250 - $54,990

Invoice: NA

MPG: 21 City / 27 Hwy

Overview

Following the end of the Lotus Esprit, the Elise 2004 positioned Lotus in the competitive US car market. The 2004 Elise is a spunky Roadster; it has a 149 inch length, a 68 inch width, a 44 inch height and it is an open topped vehicle. This car weighs roughly a ton and it can offer 189 or 200 horsepower, depending on the engine and tranny chosen.The Elise is a wonderful car for weekend drives; it's an ideal two seater for quick getaways. It can also be an everyday use car, but one will find the ingress and egress a bit complex. The interior cabin can also be pretty noisy.The Elise is offered with a VVA: a Versatile Vehicle Architecture, a signature Lotus feature. The latter consists of bonded/riveted aluminum extrusions; This car has composite fiberglass body panels, an aluminum central tub, rear steel subframes, and aluminum subframes. This gives the body a rigid but light presentation. Under the hood, one will find the 1.78 Liter Inline-Four naturally aspirated or supercharged motor married to a six-speed manual tranny.

Other Sports Cars to Consider

If you're in the market for a convertible with more luxury and daily usability than the 2010 Lotus Elise, your shortlist. Both provide more horsepower than the Lotus Elise, but neither are as quick off the line. They do, however, feature loads of standard convenience features, premium materials and safety technology that the 2010 Lotus Elise lacks. They're also more comfortable to drive on a daily basis. In addition, their abundant cargo room makes them more practical.
If the 2010 Lotus Elise's performance-first, no-frills design appeals to you, also check . It's similarly priced, but packs a meaner punch with its mighty 430-horsepower 6.2-liter V8 engine. In production since 1953, the 2010 Chevrolet Corvette is an all-American icon.

Detatils: 2010 Lotus Elise

To the delight of sports car enthusiasts and the legion of cult followers it’s amassed, the Lotus Elise carries into the 2010 model year unchanged. The 2010 Lotus Elise is available in two trims, the base Elise and supercharged Elise SC.

"The Lotus Elise SC is the automotive equivalent of a beautiful but high-maintenance girlfriend -- difficult, but clearly worth the trouble. ... The Elise might be impractical, but on the right road, it can still deliver like few others."
"Taken in sum, the Lotus Elise is a fantastic car for a comparatively limited audience that gets it and can actually use it. For everyone else, including those specifically interested in high-performance sports cars bordering on supercars, there are other choices in the market likely to be more useful, accommodating and appealing."
"The Elise is a compact, lightweight sports car meant for track driving. As such, its competitors, such as the BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster, generally boast more comfort but fewer at-the-limits performance attributes."

9.4 (Excellent)

Test drivers report that the 2010 Lotus Elise is an extraordinary performer. writes: "For those willing to put up with its heavily compromised utility and comfort, the...Lotus Elise provides the most unfiltered driving experience of any roadster sold today." Just don’t expect to drive the Lotus Elise everyday, because it’s not suited for that.

8.7 (Very Good)

In designing the Lotus Elise’s exterior, engineers paid more attention to how its shape can enhance its performance capabilities, rather than its aesthetic appeal. According to , the result is something that “[l]ooks like it’s from another planet.” That, however, isn’t necessarily a bad thing. In addition to being unique, critics report that the 2010 Lotus Elise looks bold and aggressive.

5.9 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Lotus Elise is engineered for speed, not comfort or luxury. explains: "Unlike grown-up celebrity children, the Elise does not come fully loaded. ... A Touring Pack adds leather upholstery, additional sound insulation and a cupholder, but nothing can hide the fact that this Lotus is a throwback to a different motoring time." On the plus side, 2010 Lotus Elise's scant interior does help keep weight down, which enhances its overall performance abilities.

NA

In terms of safety, there are better buys than the 2010 Lotus Elise. It hasn’t been crash tested, suffers severe visibility issues and only features basic safety technology. Then again, typical Lotus drivers aren’t as concerned with safety as they are with hardcore sports performance. And that’s where the Lotus Elise really delivers.

2010 Lotus Evora

2011-02-21T10:07:00.000-08:00

ESTIMATED BASE PRICE: $75,000

Overview

The Lotus Evora for 2010 is a new vehicle offered by Lotus; it now joins the Elise Roadster as well as the Exige coupe in the carmaker's line. While the latter two vehicles are two passenger offerings, the Evora is a four-passenger car great for everyday use. The Evora has easy ingress and egress, unlike the Elise and the Exige. In addition, it is a quiet ride with lots of leg/headroom. Consumers demanding a smooth handling car will find what they seek in the Evora, regardless of the conditions on the road.The Evora sports the VVA by Lotus: the Versatile Vehicle Architecture. This means that the car has bonded/riveted aluminum extrusions, aluminum subframes, rear subframes and a central aluminum tub making the car very light and rigid. The roof of the Evora is crafted of composite materials and the body weighs 500 pounds in all; this means the curb weight of the car is a bit more than 3000 pounds total. It has a mid-mounted 3.5 Liter V-6 motor; this car is the only one if its kind worldwide.

FUEL ECONOMY (C/D EST):
EPA city/highway driving: 19/28 mpg
Back seat or not, the Evora is still very much a Lotus in the driver-thrills department. As with the company’s other cars, the steering is absolutely brilliant. The Evora has hydraulic power assist as opposed to the unassisted racks of other Lotuses, but the magic still comes through. In fact, the Lotus guys are so fanatical about steering feel that the Evora has a magnesium steering wheel in order to reduce weight—and therefore inertia—so the driver is informed of every last road nuance. The weighting is perfect, and the constant subtle feedback that comes through the thin, flat-bottom wheel is superb without making the car feel nervous or twitchy.
More Than Just Power
The Evora is planted and secure, yet it picks apart corners with a light and playful feel that always makes mid-engine cars feel so special—think Ferrari F430, only with better steering. The Evora’s handling is so natural and fluid that you get the sense it actually enjoys being pushed. Braking is similarly spectacular, with immediate bite and extremely linear behavior. Despite weighing about 100 fewer pounds than a 911, the Evora wears 13.8-inch front brakes that are larger than the Porsche’s. Lotus says they’ve been designed to easily shrug off track use.
Although not necessarily a straight-line rocket—a Nissan 370Z will keep up in the quarter-mile dash—it isn’t as though the Evora is wanting for a bunch of additional power, and that’s not what any Lotus is about, anyway. The Toyota-sourced V-6 is responsive and has a nice midrange induction growl—Lotus routes a tube from the intake to the cabin to enhance the noise—and it sings a sophisticated but fairly subtle roar in the 5000-to-7000-rpm range. In fact, this is as loud as Lotus could make it to pass strict European noise regulations. U.S. cars get a slightly louder exhaust. A benefit of the, shall we say, responsible level of horsepower is impressive fuel economy numbers. Based on European ratings, the Evora could return as high as a 911-bettering 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway in EPA testing.

Start Saving Now
Initially, the Evora will be offered only with a six-speed manual, but Toyota’s six-speed automatic transmission will be on the options list for 2011. Don’t worry—as with the engine, the autobox will be completely reprogrammed by Lotus. The Evora goes on sale imminently in Europe but won’t be available in the U.S. until early 2010, and the critical pricing decision has yet to be made. Current exchange rates would put the Evora at $75,000 or so, which is practically on top of the Porsche 911 and over $10,000 higher than the price of a Cayman S. That may be a tough sell for some. But the sales volume will be supercarlike, which means your neighbor—or anyone else on your drive to work—is not likely to have one, and the level of driver feedback is unsurpassed in the “real car” realm. That’s enough for us.

2010 Lotus Exige

2011-02-21T10:02:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $65,690 - $65,690

Invoice: $59,121 - $59,121

MPG: 20 City / 26 Hwy

Overview

The Exige is a coupe; this vehicle is much like the Elise, a hard topped car by Lotus. The Lotus Exige is ideal for the Lotus fan seeking a vehicle with a fixed roof configuration. This car helped Lotus reestablish itself in the 2004 US car market. The Exige Coupe offered in 2006 had body measurements of 68 inches wide, 46 inches high, and 150 inches long. The car weight is 2100 pounds. The engine generates 240 horsepower. The Exige is great for weekend drives, but the ingress and egress are complex making it an unsuitable everyday drive.The Lotus Exige has VVA: the Versatile Vehicle Architecture by the carmaker. It has a roof made of composite materials, steel rear subframes, aluminum subframes and an aluminum central tub too. This vehicle sports a composite crash structure as well. Its body is light and rigid so it achieves high speeds easily.Under the hood, the car has a Toyota sourced, 1.8 L Inline-four married to a six-speed manual tranny. This is a sporty, attractive car with an exceptional, well liked package too.

Other Sports Cars to Consider

Shoppers interested in the 2010 Lotus Exige should also check out the. It doesn’t accelerate as quickly as the 2010 Lotus Exige, but provides more horsepower, has a higher top speed and handles just as marvelously. It's also a lot more luxurious and starts at nearly $14K less.
Those looking to save even more should consider . It's not as eye-catching as the 2010 Lotus Exige, but offers mind-blowing performance for an affordable price. Plus, it features a convertible hardtop -- which offers relief on hot days at the track.

Details: 2010 Lotus Exige

For 2010, the Lotus Exige received an exterior refresh. It’s available in two trims, S and S 240.

"This is a track-ready missile that shares its chassis and interior with the Elise. The Exige S, however, doesn't have a removable top, and it has different body panels and a rear wing, the latter to increase downforce. For those interested in an all-out track toy, the Exige is an excellent choice.
"[T]his compact little collection of wings, vents, spoilers, handling, oomph, and grip was built to order from the happiest days of your childhood."

9.3 (Excellent)

Test drivers say that the 2010 Lotus Exige provides a mind-blowing ride, but isn’t the easiest car to drive on a daily basis. In fact, says, “Only masochists would use this as a daily driver." It does, however, accelerate from 0 to 60 mph at warp speed. For drivers looking to burn some rubber at the track, the 2010 Lotus Exige is a real winner.

9.2 (Excellent)

Critics agree that the 2010 Lotus Exige is a head-turner. But its wild style is more purposeful than most people think. Every menacing curve on the 2010 Lotus Exige helps improve downforce and aerodynamics. The fact that it looks aggressive is just an added bonus.

5.2 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Lotus Exige’s cabin is criticized for its lack of luxury and hard to access quarters. "In the 1950s, cars were sold with the implicitly understood abbreviation R&H, meaning radio and heater, as part of the pitch," writes . "It meant the car was flush with options, and these two creature comforts, plus air-conditioning and power windows, are about it for the Exige." But that means little to this track-tuned machine’s niche audience, who care less about amenities than they do power.

NA

The 2010 Lotus Exige hasn't been crash-tested , and lacks most safety technology car shoppers have come to expect in a new car. Considering that the 2010 Lotus Exige is designed to prioritize performance above all else, most enthusiasts probably won’t mind.

NA

Protecting the 2010 Lotus Exige is a three-year/36,000-mile basic. However, its class rivals provide more extensive coverage.

2010 Lincoln MKX

2011-02-21T09:56:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $30,307

Overview

Lincoln's MKX adds more competition to the crossover, luxury car segment. The Lincoln MKX has been designed based on the Edge. If the consumer doesn't want a Japanese or German car, the MKX is an nice alternative.The Lincoln MKX is a heavy car. Its cabin is well-executed, and feature loaded. Its great for running errands or for mild off-road excursions. The MKX is sold with an all-wheel-drive configuration so people living in snowy climes can get more power and improved handling from the vehicle; it sports practical amenities too like a navigation system, a Sirius Travel Link feature, and the driver gets on the road guidance and detailed traffic information.The MKX is sold with one powertrain; this is common for a car in this segment. It hosts a 3.5-Liter V-6 engine married to a six-speed auto tranny. The car comes with a number of unique packages. The price tag is somewhat elevated, particularly when compared to its rivals in this class. The 2011 configurations are slated for redesigns, so discounts are to be had on 2010 models now.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Lincoln MKX is a five-passenger crossover SUV available in one trim level. Standard equipment includes 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, auto-dimming interior and driver-side exterior mirrors, a power liftgate, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather seating, heated and cooled power front seats, driver memory functions, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, the Sync electronics interface (includes Bluetooth and iPod interface) and a six-speaker stereo with in-dash six-CD changer, satellite radio, USB/iPod audio jack and a traditional auxiliary audio jack.
The Ultimate Package adds 18-inch polished alloy wheels, adaptive headlights, interior mood lighting, a remote folding second-row bench seat (there's a handle in the cargo area) and upgraded leather upholstery. To this the Elite Package adds a panoramic sunroof, an upgraded THX-certified audio system and a hard-drive-based navigation system that features a single-CD player (replacing the six-CD changer), 10GB of digital music storage and Sirius Travel Link. The Elite's upgrades are also offered as stand-alone options. Other à la carte items include 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, heated rear seats and a DVD rear entertainment system.
Finally, the Limited Edition, Monochrome and Midnight Limited Edition packages include a number of unique color and trim features. The first two feature 20-inch wheels, while the Midnight has massive 22s as well as a sport-tuned suspension.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2010 Lincoln MKX is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 that makes 265 horsepower and 250 pound-feet of torque. There is a choice of front- or all-wheel drive. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard, but unlike the transmissions on competing models, there is no manual override feature. In performance testing, the MKX went from zero to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, which is about the same as the Ford Edge but slower than most competitors.
Fuel economy ratings are 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined with front-wheel drive and 17/23/19 for all-wheel-drive models. With the optional Trailer Tow Package, the MKX can tow as much as 3,500 pounds when properly equipped.

Safety

Standard safety equipment for the MKX includes antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the MKX achieved a perfect five stars for frontal driver and side-impact protection. Front passenger protection in frontal impacts earned a four-star rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the MKX its highest rating of "Good" for frontal-offset and side impact protection.
We haven't retested a 2010 MKX to see if Lincoln has corrected the truly awful braking distances it displayed three years ago at the vehicle's debut. However, if the virtually identical Edge is any indication, braking performance has improved, but remains prone to fade and a mushy pedal.

Interior Design and Special Features

The 2010 Lincoln MKX gives away its Ford roots with plain gauges, downmarket stereo/climate controls and low-end plastics. It hasn't been given the same makeover that the Lincoln MKZ received for 2010 (and it isn't as nice as the Ford Flex). Fit, finish and overall quality is below par for the class, and the front seats lack the cushiness of many luxury SUVs (in fact, some would call them rock hard). The cabin manages to look luxurious, but looks are deceiving.
Looking on the bright side of things, there are plenty of standard and optional creature comforts like heated and cooled front seats, optional heated rear seats and a plethora of entertainment options. Both rows of seats offer plenty of space -- particularly in back, where three people can fit comfortably in the MKX's wide body. With the rear seats lowered, the cargo area expands to a maximum of 69 cubic feet, which is more than what's available from models like the Audi Q5 and Mercedes GLK, but smaller than the cargo capacities of the Acura MDX and Lexus RX 350.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Lincoln MKX's 3.5-liter V6 is smooth but hardly provides the sort of performance we've come to expect from this luxury SUV class. The transmission doesn't help matters, exhibiting a stubbornness that often requires a full foot to the floor to summon a proper highway on-ramp downshift. A lack of any manual override frustrates this problem, as Lincoln provides only a useless L gear. Steering is decently weighted, but again, it doesn't provide the confidence engendered by competing models. The MKX does offer a cushy ride, and the cabin is very quiet even at highway speeds (a rare class-competitive area). In total, it drives like a Ford Edge -- which is fine if you're paying Ford Edge money, but not if you could also afford a Mercedes GLK

2010 Lincoln MKZ

2011-02-21T09:51:00.000-08:00

PRICE AS TESTED: $38,755 (base price: $34,965)

Overview

The 2010 Lincoln MKZ was formerly identified as the Zephyr. This is a staple Lincoln luxury car. The MKZ was engineered to compete with the 3 Series by BMW and the ES by Lexus and its reputation is already impeccable.The MKZ shares its platform with the Ford Fusion. The latter vehicle was identified as the 2010 Car of the Year by Motor Trend. This means the MKZ's roots are impressive too. While the MKS has some trouble, matching the speeds offered by the 3 Series, it is still a pretty speedy vehicle. It sports a 3.5-Liter, V-6 married to a six-speed auto tranny. A hybrid configuration is presently being designed.The Lincoln MKZ has a well appointed cabin and the exterior style is handsome. Car buyers looking for a vehicle that will make an impression will find the MKZ meets their demand. The cabin is a cribbed Fusion design loaded with advanced technologies and gadgets. The cost of the MKZ is typically lower than its competitors too. This means the MKZ can be had at a very fair price.

Brazen Claim for Milquetoast Performance
Lincoln’s fitment of a six-speed automatic with manual shift control (actuated via the lever itself) to the carry-over 263-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 contributes to a half-second drop in its 0-to-60 time, which is now a claimed 7.1 seconds. This acceleration boost also compelled Lincoln to make an absurd “best-in-class performance” boast, at least insofar as the TL, ES350, and CTS are concerned. Insert eyeball roll here, since we’ve hit 60 mph as quickly as 5.8 seconds in the CTS fitted with the 304-hp V-6 and 6.4 seconds in the base 263-hp version. Besides, performance includes more than just acceleration, and after hustling the MKZ up and down SoCal’s curly “Ortega” Highway 74, we doubt the Lincoln would be able to keep up with the CTS or TL on the same road. After all, the Caddy was virtually born and bred on the Nürburgring, and it shows.
To Lincoln’s credit, however, a lot has been done to control the MKZ’s body motions in the twisties. The rear suspension has been revised, and the Sport model in which we spent most of our time wore 10-spoke, 18-inch wheels and 225/45 V-rated tires—a first for the MKZ—which helped it track true. Damping is crisp, not gooey, and the brakes tug hard and tell the driver exactly what they’re doing. And then there’s the agonizingly limp steering, which pretty much ruins the party. Not only is the steering extraordinarily boosted, but it’s also plagued by a dead spot from center that allows between 30 degrees and 45 degrees of play before any significant directional change occurs. It should make for comfy cruising but adds nothing to cornering confidence. At least the MKZ is whisper quiet at speed, and the engine note, although still far from as symphonic as that of, say, a BMW inline-six or Infiniti’s VQ V-6, is more pleasant than before, thanks to specific efforts to dial some machismo into its full-throttle sound.
Although there are plenty of improvements to note with the 2010 Lincoln MKZ, which goes on sale shortly at a starting price of $34,965, the changes hardly elevate it into a new competitive sphere. Even with its markedly better styling and interior, as well as a 27-mpg highway fuel-economy rating for the front-wheel-drive model, the MKZ is little changed in terms of where it fits within the entry luxury market. Suffice to say that it just fits a little better. If Ford could have coughed up a billion or two in extra development money, perhaps it would have yielded a true best-in-class contender.

The Range

Bodystyles: Sedan
Engines: 3.5L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Models: MKZ

What's New

The MKZ was restyled for 2010 along with its Ford and Mercury brethren, receiving a 1941 Continental-inspired front end similar to that of the larger MKS. The interior of the car has also been updated, with a focus on creating a quieter and better appointed cabin. Additionally, the 2010 MKZ's transmission receives new gear ratios and a slightly revised engine, though power output remains unchanged.

Exterior

While the Lincoln signature split-wing grille really helps the 2010 MKZ stand out from the crowd, the large headlights that extend deep into the trunk lid and Lincoln badges that adorn the front fenders are not for everyone.

Interior

The MKZ's Fusion-derived interior is highlighted by a big navigation screen and the Lincoln version of Ford's famous Sync system, but the widespread parts-sharing may put some buyers off. However, equipment levels are above-average for the class and price point.

Performance & Handling

The MKZ's lone engine is a 3.5-liter V-6 that makes an adequate 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is standard. By default, power is sent to just the front wheels, but an all-wheel drive model is offered and the 2010 model accelerates roughly a half- second faster than its predecessor.

Safety

The MKZ features side-impact and side-curtain airbags for both front- and rear-seat passengers along with stability control and dual-stage front-impact airbags along with driver-seat position sensors and a three-level front passenger seat load sensor.

2010 Lincoln Navigator

2011-02-21T09:45:00.000-08:00

MSRP from $54,950

Overview

The Lincoln Navigator prompted the SUV craze; the SUV is now in the third generation. In 2007, the vehicle got a new design. At that time, an L model was introduced sporting a longer wheelbase. Since that time, the Navigator has seen several refreshments; this has resulted in the streamlining of the vehicles options.The Navigator has truck like capabilities and it is a truck-based offering. The Navigator can tow 9000 pounds. In order to remain competitive, the carmaker has ensured that the vehicle is spacious too; it is a seven seater offering that is capable of hauling lots of cargo.The Navigator is definitely a luxury offering, but its interior could use some refreshments. Lincoln has newer sedans and crossovers with interiors that are better than that found in the Navigator. The most significant flaw in the Navigator is its motor; it only has a 5.4-Liter V-8, 310 horsepower engine. That is the only engine selection available. Since it weighs three tons, the motor struggles to achieve higher speeds. Yet, despite its shortcomings, the Navigator is a dependable offering.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Lincoln Navigator is a full-size luxury SUV that comes in one very well equipped trim level. Three-row seven-passenger seating is standard, and the second-row captain's chairs can be replaced with a three-person bench to increase capacity to eight. Also, an extended-wheelbase version is offered -- the Navigator L -- that adds 15 inches to the overall length. Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels, parking sensors, a power liftgate, power-folding running boards, a rearview-mirror-mounted back-up camera, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather upholstery, adjustable pedals, dual-zone automatic climate control with rear auxiliary controls, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, power front seats with heating and cooling, driver memory settings, heated and cooled second-row seats, and a heated, power-folding third-row bench. Also standard are the Sync voice activation system and a 14-speaker surround-sound audio system with a six-CD changer, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Those looking to outfit their Navigator with even more features will likely turn to the optional Elite package, which adds a sunroof, a navigation system with Sirius Travel Link and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Elite package also replaces the six-CD changer with a single-CD unit and moves the rearview camera from the mirror to the larger navigation display.
The vast expanses of exterior chrome may be a bit too flashy for the more understated buyer, so Lincoln offers a Monochrome Appearance package that substitutes body-colored elements for some of the chrome accents and adds power-folding heated outside mirrors with puddle lights. A Monochrome Limited Edition package goes a step further with ebony interior wood trim, unique leather seats and headrests embroidered with the Lincoln star for all three rows.
Weekend warriors who anticipate a lot of hauling may want to opt for the Heavy-Duty Trailer Tow package, which tacks on an automatic load-leveling rear suspension, an integrated tow hitch and a heavy-duty radiator and transmission cooler. Single-item options include 20-inch chrome wheels, a second row 40/20/40-split bench and the rear-seat entertainment system.

Powertrains and Performance

Under the hood of the 2010 Lincoln Navigator is a 5.4-liter V8 that produces 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic is the only transmission available, but buyers can choose between two-wheel- and four-wheel-drive models. Properly equipped, a rear-wheel-drive Navigator is capable of towing up to 9,000 pounds.
The last Navigator L we tested accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds, off the pace for this segment. EPA fuel economy estimates stand at 14 mpg city/20 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined, which is only a few miles more per gallon than the competing Cadillac Escalade.

The Range

Bodystyle: SUV
Engines: 5.4L V-8
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
Range: Navigator, Navigator L

What's New

The third-generation Navigator enters its fourth year as a carry-over model from 2009, the only change being the addition of Trailer Sway Control as a standard feature.

Exterior

The Navigator has not yet been updated to show-off Lincoln's new signature grille and features slightly less chrome than new Lincoln models. The Lincoln SUV comes with 18-inch aluminum wheels standard, with 20-inch chrome wheels offered as an option.

Interior

The Navigator has a spacious interior with plenty of space for passengers in all three rows along with a maximum of 128.2 cubic-feet of cargo space in L models. Design is out of sync with the rest of the Lincoln lineup, however.

Performance & Handling

The 2010 Navigator's aging 5-4-liter V-8 makes a relatively-modest 310 horsepower and 365 pound-feet of torque while drinking a considerable amount of gas. The engine is mated to a relatively modern six-speed automatic. The Navigator's ladder-frame chassis allows the big SUV to tow up to 9,000 pounds and lends it off-road capability.

Safety

Six airbags, including full-length side curtain airbags are standard, along with trailer sway control, stability control, and a rear-view camera.

2010 Lincoln MKT

2011-02-21T09:41:00.000-08:00

Expected Pricing: $45,000-$50,000

Overview

Entering the market in the year 2009 as the model for 2010 is the Lincoln MKT. The car entered the automotive market nearly a year before the launch of the Ford Flex. Both vehicles have similar features, but the chief difference between the MKT and the Flex is the exterior sheetmetal used in the design of the MKT.The Lincoln MKT is the largest car offered by the carmaker. The MKT is ideal for long distance jaunts and highway driving. The larger size has a downside though; when on the streets of a city the vehicle is difficult to drive and park. This car has a nice rear end design but headroom is diminished. While it hosts a third row, cargo space is also decreased.The Lincoln MKT sports two motors, one of which is the 3.5 Liter, twin turbocharged V-6 married to a six-speed auto tranny. Inside the spacious cabin, one will find advanced technologies and niceties. The price tag is a bit elevated for some, which may prove uncomfortable, and with the add-on of options, it increases fast.

When we recently drove the twisting, writhing back roads of suburban New York for a day, it became clear that the MKT is an entirely unexpected SUV. Hurried on by the strong EcoBoost engine, the Lincoln seemed completely at home on what would once have been exclusively sports-car roads. Lincoln has gone to great lengths to reduce body roll in turning, and the MKT's shock-absorber tuning kept the vehicle's tires firmly planted on the pavement even at forced cornering speeds. In fact, thanks in no small part to the smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifting, the MKT simply begged to be driven harder into the next corner. Accurate rack-and-pinion steering and powerful brakes encouraged us to keep our feet on the accelerator pedal as long as we dared.
And in no time, the precisely controlled chassis of this Lincoln made us forget all about being in an SUV. Sure, the volume and mass of the MKT denied it, but all our reflexes responded to the strictly controlled behavior of this vehicle as if it were exactly what it felt like: a large, heavy but enthusiastic sports sedan!
Yet together with its winsome road appeal, the MKT fulfills all the luxury duties of a Lincoln. The interior is an attractive cross between a living room on wheels and a room at the club. Real-wood trim gleams elegantly. Everything in the interior is soft to the touch, bespeaking carefully calculated refinement. In the second row, you can choose between a bench (in the seven-seat configuration) or drop one seat and be rewarded with two large, comfortable heated captain's chairs. Also in the rear, not to be missed, is the delicatessen section, featuring a traveling refrigerator.
The MKT also boasts the entire long list of Lincoln connectivity features, including SYNC voice-actuated communication and entertainment systems. In the second row are two separate seatback DVD screens that operate independently, the better to keep your two youngest from fighting over what to watch. Sirius Satellite Radio is standard, and there is an available CD Jukebox feature that lets you store over 100 CDs.
The Lincoln also comes with all the expected safety equipment and protection, including a tire-pressure monitor, so important in a big, heavy vehicle like this.
The MKT with the 3.7-liter V6 and front-wheel drive will sell for $44,200; the same vehicle with all-wheel drive is $46,195. The EcoBoost version with all-wheel drive, standard, will sell for $49,200. Options include adaptive cruise control, a huge sliding Vista Roof, third-row power-fold seating and active park assist.

The Range

Bodystyles: SUV
Engines: 3.7L V-6, 3.5L turbocharged V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed automatic
MKT FWD, MKT AWD, MKT EcoBoost

What's New

All-new for 2010, the Lincoln MKT is one of the first vehicles outfitted with Ford's much-hyped 3.5-liter EcoBoost V-6 and the MKT serves as a showcase vehicle for the newest in Lincoln high-tech, luxury and entertainment features.

Exterior

The MKT is a uniquely-styled crossover that some detractors say is hearse-like in appearance. The large, Lincoln signature grille gives it considerable presence on the road, although the MKT's swoopy rear design compromises overall cabin space and splits opinions.

Interior

The interior of the MKT is luxuriously appointed and feature rich. The optional Vista Roof makes for a great view at night. Entertainment options include a 14-speaker, 600-watt premium audio system and rear-seat DVD player with headrest-mounted screens.

Performance & Handling

The base engine in the MKT is a 3.7-liter V-6 rated at 270 horsepower and 270 pound-feet, which is adequate for moving around this roughly 5000-pound crossover. The optional 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V-6 makes 350 horsepower and 355 pound-feet of torque makes acceleration effortless. Handling is not confidence inspiring, however, especially in top-heavy models equipped with the glass Vista Roof.

Safety

The 2010 Lincoln MKT comes standard with six airbags including two side canopy airbags that run the length of the cabin. Adaptive cruise control system with collision-warning and brake support features is optional.

2010 Lincoln MKS

2011-02-21T09:36:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $41,270 - $48,160

Invoice: $38,053 - $44,254

MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy

Overview

The 2010 Lincoln MKS is a brand new Ford vehicle; it displaces the former Town Car flagship soon to be discontinued. The Lincoln MKS is a dependable, full sized, luxury sedan and it has many features that are found in the Taurus.The Lincoln MKS has a distinguishing style; the interior is elegant and the car has plenty of niceties making it rival some of the top of the line German cars. The Lincoln MKS is offered with several engines, one is the 3.5 Liter EcoBoost V-6. This vehicle is great for consumers in need of a vehicle that can handle snowy climes too; it has all wheel drive for better on the road handling.Critics claim that the MKS offers poor handling, particularly if it is compared to rivaling vehicles. Some consumers dislike the front drive platform, but for what it seemingly lacks, the Lincoln MKS definitely offers amazing comfort, exceptional cruising features, and for the consumer that spends hours on the road covering long distance jaunts, the MKS is an exceptional offering. One can definitely drive in comfort.

Other Cars to Consider

The MKS is a front-wheel-drive car in a class filled with rear-wheel-drive cars. If you are accustomed to the ride of past Lincolns, the MKS will feel athletic. The only other true front-wheel-drive luxury sedan, and the last car to offer the gentle, stately ride of older American luxury sedans. But if you're accustomed to the rides of imported luxury cars, or even of newer rear-wheel-drive domestics like the Lincoln's big car will probably feel spongy.

Lincoln MKS: The Details

The 2010 MKS comes in two trim levels, front- and all-wheel-drive, but the two boast virtually identical feature lists. Ford's voice-controlled SYNC infotainment system, a pricey option on most Ford, Lincoln and Mercury products, is standard. Other impressive touches that come at no extra charge include ventilated, heated and cooled front seats and even heated rear seats.

"The MKS falls short of being a class leader, but it is a solid effort on Lincoln's part and offers plenty to attract those who are looking for a roomy, comfortable, luxurious, and very well-equipped sedan with classic yet modern styling.
"Lincoln's new flagship aims for a contemporary spin on traditional American luxury while still focusing on serene comfort instead of invigorating performance. Despite a generous list of standard luxury features and some unique high-tech gadgetry, MKS's overall refinement trails luxury-class leaders" --
"A mix of modern features and accessories puts the 2009 Lincoln MKS a step ahead of some rivals, but subpar performance and a steep MSRP make it hard to say where this new model fits in.
"The MKS's competitors? Think Lexus GS, think Acura RL, think Cadillac CTS, and to some extent, the Volvo S80.
"It's the kind of car Lincoln should be doing, a king-size, no-apologies American luxury sedan. The same approach served Chrysler well with its 300, a big hit just four years ago.
"Lincoln aimed for a base hit here, and by God they got one.

7.1 (Good)

Reviewers of the 2009 MKS repeatedly said its engine was just too weak for its class. This year, many say a more powerful twin-turbo V6 corrects that flaw, but it still trails most of its class in our performance ratings because its handling is not particularly sharp. The explains, "The MKS excuses itself from backroad competition, preferring to focus on space, smoothness and amenities.

8.6 (Very Good)

Reviewers can't seem to discuss the sheetmetal of the 2010 MKS without mentioning the ancient Lincoln Town Car it replaced. The MKS, they say, proves that the brand is serious about updating its image. Many compare its lines with those of a Lexus, and while that doesn't put it at the cutting edge of luxury car design (there is no Cadillac brashness or BMW swagger here), it means the MKS is conservatively handsome and doesn't look dated.

8.7 (Very Good)

Lincoln advertises the 2010 MKS as a showpiece for the latest in automotive technology. Reviewers say that's true, provided that you spring for some option packages. The ergonomics also earn a lot of praise - but auto writers cite some below-grade switches and hard plastics. comments, "Rich-looking leather and soft-touch surfaces abound...however, the upscale ambiance is compromised by some obvious hard plastic trim pieces.

9.9 (Excellent)

The 2010 Lincoln MKS receives near-perfect scores incrash tests, and the mechanically-similar 2009 model earned a "Top Safety Pick" designation .

7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Lincoln MKS reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided . This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Lincoln offers a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper on all its cars.

2010 Lincoln Town Car

2011-02-21T09:27:00.000-08:00

Used TMV from $32,779

Overview

The Lincoln Town Car has long been a choice of the livery/limo companies. Yet, it will no longer be offered. The Town Car is an aging, sedan; this full-sized offering slated for discontinuation in the year 2011. The vehicle is the only luxury, body-on-frame car remaining. The vehicle has features from earlier models that established its reputation like nice handling, a rear-drive configuration, and a V-8 motor.Presently, the V-8 engine is clearly underpowered. It is a good motor but it lacks necessary juice. The car is spacious, especially in the longer wheelbase configurations: these cars have six inches more in the body length so plenty of legroom is supplied. The Town Car is offered with HID, but the amenities are severely limited. If the car buyer can forego high tech gadgets in the cabin, the Town Car is a nice option. The car lacks things like a navigation system, a satellite radio, or a rear backup camera. The seating is adjustable in the front, eight different settings are offered, and the vehicle does have dual zone climate controls.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Lincoln Town Car is a full-size luxury sedan available in two trim levels that correspond to the available wheelbases. All Town Cars seat six people, thanks to a three-person front bench. The regular-wheelbase Town Car Signature Limited comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, a power-closing trunk, rear park assist, 40/20/40-split front bench seats with power-adjustable driver and passenger seats, heated front seats, power-adjustable pedals, driver memory functions, a tilt steering column, a leather- and wood-trimmed steering wheel with audio and climate controls, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a stereo with a six-CD changer.
The Signature L adds 6 inches of wheelbase and therefore substantially more rear-seat legroom (not that the regular Town Car was lacking in this department). It also features heated rear seats, rear-seat audio and climate controls, a folding armrest with a storage bin and two power points, redundant front passenger seat fore-and-aft control and rear-seat vanity mirrors.
Options for both trim levels include chrome-clad wheels, whitewall tires and xenon headlights. The Continental Edition package adds 17-inch chrome wheels, chrome B-pillars and special badging and interior stitching.

Powertrains and Performance

The rear-wheel-drive 2010 Lincoln Town Car comes with a flex-fuel 4.6-liter V8 good for 239 hp and 287 lb-ft of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission is standard. Expect a 0-60 time in the mid-8-second range for the Signature Limited and longer for the heavier Signature L. EPA fuel economy estimates are 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 19 mpg combined.

Safety

The 2010 Lincoln Town Car comes standard with front-seat side airbags, but it doesn't offer side curtain airbags for the first or second rows. Antilock brakes and traction control are also standard, but stability control is unavailable. The Town Car received the top five-star rating from the government in all crash test categories, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Town Car the highest rating of "Good" for offset frontal impacts.

Interior Design and Special Features

The Town Car's interior offers ample passenger accommodations and a massive trunk (21 cubic feet) capable of swallowing a whole bunch of stuff. The Signature L adds an extended wheelbase for even more rear-seat legroom, rivaled only by Chrysler's extended-wheelbase 300C and luxury sedans with heftier price tags. The seats are nice and comfy, but they have virtually no lateral support.
Audio and climate controls are straightforward, but high-tech goodies are in short supply. The dash retains the same flat T-shape design that has been in the Town Car since the 1980s, so if you've owned a big Lincoln before (or driven a lot of limos), you'll feel right at home.

Driving Impressions

The 2010 Lincoln Town Car is what we'd call deceptively slow. There's plenty of low-end torque, but the aged V8 runs out of breath quickly, resulting in acceleration that's bested by virtually every other luxury sedan on the market. Freeway cruising is smooth and serene as long as you don't hit any seams or cracks, in which case the hoary suspension will start jiggling around. Still, the ride is comfortable in a "welcome aboard!" sort of way. Also, compared to past Town Cars (which admittedly sets the bar rather low), the current edition isn't completely devoid of athleticism. This is all relative, however, as it's impossible to mask such unsophisticated underpinnings.

2010 Lexus SC 430

2011-02-21T09:18:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $68,405 - $68,405

Invoice: $60,880 - $60,880

MPG: 16 City / 23 Hwy

Overview

The Lexus SC was the third model of the vehicle that was offered on the automotive market in the early 1990s. This vehicle has been sold with several engine options. The SC of yesteryear also hosted a hardtop that was retractible, and even with minimal pizzazz and styling, the vehicle was a top selling unit.The SC 430 sports a 4.3-Liter V-8 engine with 288 horsepower, 317 ft-lbs. of torque and rear drive. The SC 430's engine is joined to a six-speed auto tranny. The convertible configuration can conquer zero to sixty in 5.8 seconds too. Past offerings included the limited edition Pebble Beach model, and most recently, this vehicle has received a number of features that are found in Lexus's other vehicles.The SC 430 is the car's second-generation model and it entered the market about ten years after the first SC. This vehicle is nearing its twentieth year and the end of its lifecycle. It will be displaced by the Lexus IS C. Consumers desiring the SC 430 must move fast to get the most recent offering.

Other Sports Cars to Consider

If you're shopping in the class and willing to sacrifice sports performance for a great overall-value, the 2010 Lexus SC 430 is the car for you. Every other vehicle it competes with starts at nearly $10K more.
If, however, you can't do without superior sports performance, check out the . Available with two engine options, a 382-horsepower V8 and 510-horsepower V12, the SL is as powerful as it is luxurious. Just keep in mind that power doesn't come cheap. If you're not willing to drop the nearly $100,000 needed to buy a base-model SL, consider shopping in the instead. There you can find such outstanding sports performers . While neither is as luxurious as the 2010 Lexus SC 430 or its class rivals, both are available with drop-top hard-tops.

Details: 2010 Lexus SC 430

For 2010, the Lexus SC 430 receives a host of electronic upgrades to its already-impressive list of convenience features.

"SC 430 is a posh, pleasant, semi-sport convertible with the extra security and convenience of a power metal roof, plus Lexus' highly rated customer service, workmanship, and reliability. ... It isn't cheap, but some rivals with similar power and features cost even more.
"Like other grand-touring roadsters, the Lexus SC 430 hardtop convertible comes stocked with a V-8 engine and plenty of top-shelf accoutrements."
"Still one of the most evocatively styled vehicles in the entire Lexus portfolio, this V-8-powered, rear-wheel-drive 2+2 boasts the ability to transform itself from coupe to convertible at the push of a button."
"Its hardtop convertible design makes it seem like more of a sports car than it really is. It actually is more of a touring vehicle although not made for family usage. The rear seats are very cramped and cargo space is minimal."

6.9 (Mediocre)

According to test drivers, the 2010 Lexus SC 430 makes a good choice for a grand tourer -- but not necessarily a sports car. explains, "Better suited to slow trawling of the avenues of South Beach than serious driving, the SC430 shakes and rattles over bumps and rolls in the twisties.

7.4 (Good)

Though auto writers are split over whether the 2010 Lexus SC 430 looks good or not, most concede that its power-retractable hardtop is cool. "The SC 430 features a hardtop that retracts in less than 25 seconds. Created with a low roofline and sleek profile, the design was subjected to wind testing to ensure it met Lexus' standards for noise, vibration and harshness,

7.0 (Good)

Reviewers admire the 2010 Lexus SC 430's luxurious interior finish. According , its "[s]umptuous, beautifully crafted cabin features real wood trim, soft leather, and discreet brightwork." Still, critics take issue with its limited passenger room and lack of cargo space. For 2010, the Lexus SC 430 receives some impressive electronic upgrades

NA

Though the 2010 Lexus SC 430 has not been crash tested, it features a long list of assuring safety equipment -- including front, side and knee airbags for front passengers. However, visibility issues from the driver's seat have been reported.

10.0 (Excellent)

The 2010 Lexus SC reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided . This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Lexus SC 430 features a four-year/50,000-mile basicand six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty. Critics note Lexus' strong reputation for building reliabile vehicles.

2010 Land Rover Range Rover

2011-02-21T09:11:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $78,425 - $94,275

Invoice: $71,367 - $85,790

MPG: 12 City / 18 Hwy

Overview

While the full title of the Land Rover Range Rover sounds like a tongue twister, the vehicle's exceptional quality is evidenced by the many professional athletes, celebrities, politicians, and Wall Street big wigs demand the Range Rover. The vehicle has impressive style, sophistication, and superior on the road handling.From its impressive air suspension that couples a heavenly ride with off road functionality, to the vehicle's spectacular Terrain Response functions, the Range Rover is a nice change of pace for those seeking a reliable vehicle. The vehicle has a V-8 enging churning out 510 horsepower and it is a first class vehicle. The consumer wanting to express him or herself will find the Range Rover a high class, grade A option.The Range Rover has a spectacular reputation and it can handle just about any kind of Terrain. Whether you want to ride through Los Angeles or the jungles of Africa, this ride is easy, smooth, and you will love the price too. This is a vehicle emblematic of the exceptional; a vehicle coveted by those with elite tastes.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you're looking for a luxurious SUV, but aren't sure about the Range Rover, check out the . While Land Rovers were originally built for the British Army, the G Class was originally built for the German one, making it a capable off-road rig with nearly as much cachet as the Rover. It costs significantly more, however. To save a little cash, consider the , which has similar off-roading capabilities and technologies, but a slightly smaller price tag. If you want a luxury SUV, but don't intend to go off-road, consider a well-optioned . Neither can match the Range Rover when the pavement ends, but both have a slight edge in on-road performance.

Details: Land Rover Range Rover

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rove is available in two trims, the base HSE model and the Supercharged.

"For 2010, the Range Rover gets a variety of upgrades aimed at improving the driving experience: both available engines have an extra dose of horsepower, the interior is even more luxurious, and the level of technology, both inside the cabin and under the skin, is more impressive than ever."
"The only way to truly get your money's worth out of a Range Rover is to take it off-road. WAY off-road." -
"Land Rovers and Range Rovers do extraordinary things, and I like extraordinary."
"The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover continues the tradition of interior opulence and off-road capability. Even though it remains the leader in a very small segment, the big SUV's questionable reliability should make buyers think twice."
"Range Rover stands out among premium SUVs for its balance of on-road manners, off-road ability, and high-class accommodations. The Supercharged model brings even more power to the table, but at a hefty price premium. There are less-expensive alternatives that offer similar performance and better fuel economy, but for Range Rover's well-heeled shoppers, little else will do. "

9.1 (Excellent)

When it comes to performance, the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover won't disappoint. New engines give the 2010 ample power, especially on the Supercharged model which has over 500 horsepower. On road, the Range Rover is composed and car-like. Off-road, it's capabilities are tough to match.

9.5 (Excellent)

Few reviewers mention the 2010 Range Rover's exterior except to note that little has changed from previous model years. That's a good thing, as the Range Rover's traditional and high-end looks are popular with reviewers.

8.8 (Very Good)

The interior of the 2010 Range Rover is so nice, buyers may question if it belongs in vehicle that's capable of tackling the most rough-and-tumble terrain. With plush materials, top-notch assembly and cutting-edge cabin tech, the Range Rover's cabin is at home -- and nicer than some homes -- anywhere.

NA

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover hasn't been subjected to something that's typical for a vehicle with such a high price tag. However, the Range Rover, like most luxury SUVs, comes with an assuring number of safety features.

5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided.. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile limited . Several reviewers raise questions about Land Rover's reliability record.

2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport

2011-02-21T09:05:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $59,645 - $73,345

Invoice: $54,277 - $66,744

MPG: 12 City / 17 Hwy

Overview

The busy and thriving SUV segment has entries from Porsche, BMW, and Mercedes. The latter vehicles are very attractive, tall, heavy duty, powerful SUV offerings that offer more sport than they do utility. Then comes the entry of the Land Rover Range Rover Sport, the best out of all the SUVs in the entire class.The Range Rover Sport unifies a handsome exterior stemming from the larger Range Rover and it has underpinnings from the Rover LR4. It also has the suspension of the latter vehicle. The Rover Sport makes an intriguing crossbreed. It is a big seller; this fact is evident in New York City and California where you will spot many Rover Sports in vehicle conscious settings.The Sport maintains its SUV heritage; it has been enhanced in terms of performance, and it has remarkable off road capabilities. The makers of the Land Rover identify the vehicle as a leading performer in the segment. This rugged, rough, road gripping, aggressive SUV can do at Nurburgring Lap in all of 8 minutes and 42 seconds; nicely done indeed.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you're interested in a sporty luxury SUV, be sure to also check out the Neither can match the Sport off-road, but on-road, some reviews say they have the edge.

Details: Range Rover Sport

The Range Rover Sport seats up to five. For 2010, it gets new engines and some new cabin technology. The Range Rover Sport is available in HSE and Supercharged trims.

"With a heavily revised interior and a powertrain selection worthy of its nameplate, the 2010 Range Rover Sport is not only a viable option in the performance luxury SUV segment, it's one of the best in the business." -
"We suggest a serious look at competing luxury SUVs like the X5/X5 M, Infiniti FX50 and Porsche Cayenne -- all of which are less likely to cause mechanical headaches. But for those who still desire a luxurious cabin, status, capable on-road handling and off-road capabilities, the 2010 Range Rover Sport is still one of the few games in town."
"Any Range Rover Sport does a very good job balancing on- and off-road performance with comfort and utility, all while maintaining a mature and distinct personality."

8.3 (Very Good)

The Range Rover Sport lives up to Land Rover's off-roading reputation while providing an on-road ride that, for the most part, lives up to the "Sport" in its name.

8.6 (Very Good)

The Range Rover Sport distinguishes itself from its Range Rover sibling with a slightly more sloping profile, but reviewers say the Sport still manages to deliver the posh style that Land Rovers are known for. Changes for 2010 include revised lights and bumpers, but most people would be hard-pressed to tell the difference between the 2009 and 2010 models.

8.3 (Very Good)

The interior of the 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is something most buyers will love. says, "The Sport's cabin is perhaps its best and most unique feature; it's on the same level as an Aston Martin or Rolls-Royce interior."

NA

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport has not been crash-tested . Like most luxury SUVs, it comes with a full range of safety technologies to help drivers avoid, and passengers survive, collisions.

6.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided . This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The 2010 Land Rover Range Rover Sport comes with a four-year/50,000-mile limited. While Tata Motors, the company that recently purchased the Land Rover brand has promised to improve reliability, as a brand, Land Rover's reliability history isn't as strong as some competitors'.

2010 Land Rover LR4

2011-02-21T08:59:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $47,650 - $47,650

Invoice: $43,362 - $43,362

MPG: 12 City / 17 Hwy

Overview

If you want a very powerful SUV, only then is it wise for you to give the L-4 Land Rover a moment of consideration. This SUV is not your everyday type of SUV; it is pricey and if you are only using it for basic travel you will get a lot of features you just don't require. The Land Rover L-4 is all about luxury, it has plenty of space, it can deal with rough terrain, and you will be impressed by its array of capabilities.The L-4 Land Rover for 2010, as a traditional upright configuration, is a redesigned LR3 with a major overhaul. The LR3 earned the Motor Trend SUV of the Year Award in 2005. New inclusions like the redesigned suspension, the Terrain Response system, and the redesigned interior are just the beginning of what you get. This vehicle sports a 5.0 Liter V-8 DOHC engine with direct injection. The engine is Jaguar sourced and offers 375 horsepower. You get 25 percent more power with this motor than what you get from the former 4.4 Liter offering.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If you’re shopping Land Rovers, you’re probably looking for two things: prestige and off-road capability. You can get both by looking at the. Not only is the Cayenne as near to a sports car as you can get in this class, but it’s also strong and capable when the road ends. It can only seat up to five, however. The Cayenne and the LR4 start at about the same price.
If you need seating for seven and don’t intend on heading off the beaten path, check out the . It’s a high-tech and luxurious SUV with seating for seven. While it isn’t meant for off-road use, reviewers like its interior features and excellent performance. You’ll probably like that it gets better fuel economy and has a lower starting price than the LR4.

Details: Land Rover LR4

The LR4 is available as a Base, HSE or HSE LUX model. While base models are fairly well-equipped, to get the features and options many expect from a brand like Land Rover, you have to upgrade to a HSE or HSE LUX model. All LR4 models use a V8 engine.

"In a class trending toward luxury-crossover SUVs, the tall, off-road-oriented LR4 may seem a bit out of place. In reality, most of the time it is used exactly the way its car-like competition is, and in that capacity, delivers good passenger and cargo room, along with unexpected levels of refinement and comfort. "
"Luxury and off-road capability mix extremely well in a Land Rover, but it's not inexpensive.”
"Land Rover's most versatile player expands its already wide capabilities with a more potent V8 and sweet new cabin. Now all we need Stateside is the stonkin' twin-turbo diesel."

8.2 (Very Good)

The Land Rover LR4 has performance that most reviewers say is strong. Despite being capable of tackling rugged off-road terrain, the LR4 is pleasant and easy to handle around town. Several high-tech systems make the LR4 capable in even the most rugged off-road situations. The only downside of the LR4’s performance is its fuel economy, which is poor, even for an SUV built to head off-road.

8.0 (Very Good)

Reviewers don’t talk much about the styling on the 2011 LR4. However, those who do mention it say the LR4’s looks are in keeping with the traditional and rich looks of the rest of the Land Rover line.

9.0 (Excellent)

The 2011 Land Rover LR4 has an interior that most reviewers say is comfortable and luxurious. They even praise the optional third row seat. Most third row seats in this class earn only complaints. "Interior materials are of high quality, and assembly is first rate,” says . “The ambiance is more upscale outdoorsy than uptown opulent, but LR4's understated decor looks classy and is well suited to Land Rover's rugged pedigree."

NA

The 2011 Land Rover LR4 has not been crash tested by either. Previous models have also not undergone crash testing, but that’s not uncommon for vehicles in this price category

2010 Land Rover LR2

2011-02-21T08:54:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $35,500 - $35,500

Overview

When the LR2 was planned by the same makers of the Land Rover, consumers were excited. They anticipated a vehicle that was efficient, stylish, trim, and reasonably priced. They hoped for an SUV with brawn, power, and pizzazz. Did consumers get what they were waiting for?Yes, and no. The LR2 has a durable body and it is making headway in the crossover SUV segment. It is sold with all wheel drive and it has an 8.3 inch ground clearance. Its body is engineered out of durable, moncoque steel. It has the Terrain Response consumers have come to appreciate. The latter system has dial controls for specific on the road conditions.The LR2 sports a 3.2 Liter V-6 delivering 230 horsepower. The V-6 with 24 valves is satisfactory, but not exceptional. This SUV can achieve zero-to-sixty in 8.4 seconds: this is not necessarily an amazing record. The vehicle has a smooth mill and it is married to an auto six speed transmission. The towing abilities are mediocre at best: it can tow as much as 3500 pounds in all.

The LR2's design is angular-and it's appealingly so, though you may notice it stands out in a sea of less capable "soft-roaders" like the sculpted . AutoWeek states that the LR2 "looks good in an upscale-y sort of way." It "has the more traditional SUV look commonly found in larger models-and some cheaper ones like the ," Cars.com remarks, but the LR2 is "definitely more distinctive and handsome than most " With its front fender vents, big squared-off headlamps, and linear shapes, the LR2 plays off heritage. Kelley Blue Book says it's "softened a bit around its edges," but points out how "numerous current-generation corporate cues" are echoed in its sheetmetal, from "functional side vents reminiscent of the," and a "subtle LR3-style rear roofline kickup." TheCarConnection.com's editors agree; even with its urban-sized body, the squared theme plays out well, while the LR2 is more practical and rakish at the same time. The two models have some distinguishing features-the base SE comes with black bumpers, while the HSE gets body-color pieces, as well as a rear spoiler-and an appearance package gives a distinct grille and other trim distinctions to the base version.

Inside, the LR2's interior is a lookalike for the larger Range in some ways, but it's less rich and doesn't have the lavish wood fittings of the more expensive vehicles in the lineup. Edmunds reports the LR2 "has an unmistakable feel to it, which means plenty of leather and wood to go around," though TheCarConnection.com's editors point out a single wood strip doesn't offer nearly as much tree-trimming as the bigger. Minus the quibbling, "the LR2's interior design is modern and appealing," says Cars.com, adding the "interior architecture mirrors the pricier LR3, with squared-off dashboard controls and a four-spoke steering wheel." Elsewhere inside, vertical elements like the vents and door handles keep the interior from looking too low, and a strip of wood on the dash touches tradition. ConsumerGuide sums up opinions when it says the interior sports "high-quality wood and leather trim, solid-feeling plastics, and a blocky design imparting an upscale but sporty feel."

The Range

Bodystyle: SUV
Engine: 3.2L V-6
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Model: HSE, HSE PLUS, HSE LUX

What's New

Option packages are configured differently for 2010, but nothing else is changed. Again, if you plan to do lots of off-road workouts, the LR2 has the goods to keep you happy -- it's ready for snow and muck, yet lean enough for easy city running. More versatile rivals exist, though.

Exterior

Land Rover has done a fine job with the styling. The LR2 looks fully at home against its larger LR4 and Range Rover stablemates. Lots of glass and an upright driving position make maneuvering easy.

Interior

At just 59 cubic feet of space with the rear seats folded down -- the competition has the LR2 covered. You'll find the same "stadium seating" (higher rear bench) of its siblings and a full suite of electronic conveniences.

Performance & Handling

For "regular extreme" driving -- say, runs to the ski chalet and slow crawls to idyllic camping sites -- the LR2 won't even break a sweat. On tarmac, it displays a confident, compliant ride free of the harshness of some of its rivals, though it probably lacks their ultimate handling tenacity. Steering feel is good, engine sounds are muted, and wind noise is minimal.

Safety

Dual front and front-side airbags, an airbag for the driver's knee, and side curtains for both rows are standard. The LR2 also includes enough electronic traction and stability systems to keep you on course in any weather.

2010 Jeep Commander

2011-02-21T08:48:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $31,575 - $42,830

Invoice: $29,949 - $40,280

MPG: 15 City / 20 Hwy

Overview

The Jeep Commander, the carmaker's biggest vehicle, entered the market in 2005. The commander maintains all the loved Jeep conventions including the rugged, tough, and brawny styling. This vehicle has spectacular off road abilities too. Just as the Patriot is a smaller variant of the Cherokee, the Commander is the larger offering based on the same vehicle.The Commander's platform is none other than the Grand Cherokee. Your initial investment gets you a lot in the way of features. The cabin of the Commander is spectacular; it sports leather components and a user-friendly, comfortable interior. This vehicle has seating that is raised, a second row that is spacious for passengers, but you will find leg/headroom a bit tight. The third row of seating is really for cargo or for very small passengers.This Jeep is nicely priced. It does have cargo space that is mildly compromised which is surprising since it is so big body-wise. The Commander will be discontinued at the end of the year. Now is the time to head to the dealer's to get one inexpensively.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you're looking for a comfortable SUV with plenty of seating space and towing capabilities, check out the . Though it doesn't have the off-road chops of the Commander, some critics say it can handle the off-road terrain that most consumers will throw at them. If you just need people-moving ability and don't plan to go off-road or tow, check out the . It can seat as many as the Commander, costs a little less, is more comfortable to drive and gets better fuel economy. While it isn't as rugged as the Commander, if you can confine your driving to the pavement, it may be a better choice for you.

Details: Jeep Commander

The 2010 Commander is largely a carryover from the 2009 model year, and is available in two trims: Sport and Limited. It's also available as a rear-wheel or four-wheel drive vehicle.
If you're dead set on the Commander, check out this month's best to see what discounts and incentives are available.

"Don't let the badge mislead you. The Jeep Commander commands its brand only in name."
"We think most consumers would be better served by looking elsewhere. The Commander's passenger and cargo space pale in comparison to that of full-size crossovers like the Ford Flex, GMC Acadia and Mazda CX-9, while its fuel economy and driving dynamics also trail these class leaders."
"The Commander should be attractive to families that need four-wheel-drive capability for vacations, camping, or challenging winters."
"We're having a hard time determining who it is intended to appeal to--and whether that group will actually find it appealing. While it is a rugged, well-equipped SUV, the Commander seems to us to be an odd mix. Is it a vehicle for lugging the family around in (a militarized minivan), or is it a rugged mountain machine for a gaggle of guys? By catering to both, we think it fails to sufficiently appeal to either group."

7.3 (Good)

The Jeep Commander's strong off-road capabilities mean compromises in on-road performance. Reviewers complain about the Commander's handling and engines.

6.9 (Mediocre)

The Jeep Commander bares a striking resemblance to the original, and now discontinued, Jeep Cherokee, but in a class that tends toward sleeker looks, that translates into relatively little appeal.

6.7 (Mediocre)

The interior of the 2010 Jeep Commander is not as luxurious or comfortable as competitors.

NA

The 2010 Jeep Commander offers such standard safety features as anti-lock disc brakes, stability control and front and side curtain air bags. It also fares.

- 4.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Jeep Commander reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided . This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). The Jeep Commander has a five-year/100,000 mile powertrain. The 2009 Jeep Commander is very similar to the 2010 model, but the 2009 comes with a lifetime powertrain warranty. If you can, opting for the 2009 model, which is still on some dealer lots, could save you some headaches down the road.

2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee

2011-02-21T08:42:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $30,710 - $43,325

Overview

Entering the market in the 90s is the Grand Cherokee. This vehicle stands as the first SUVs offered to the general public. The vehicle sported a boxlike body, a bland interior, and it was all about practicality. With the passage of time however, the Grand Cherokee has been massively improved.The vehicle received a number of enhancements. Now the boxlike body is more attractive, and it sports smooth lines and mild curves. This vehicle maintains Jeep's brawny look, but the interior has had some changes too making it user friendly and well designed. The interior has quality materials and it is attractive and comfortable.The Grand Cherokee has superior handling and driving manners. It is a nice ride on or off the highway. Jeep makers have scheduled a redesign for the Cherokee next year as well. If the enhancements continue to be as they have been in the past, the newer Cherokee will be seriously desirable.

The does include real off-road ability, especially if you specify a four-wheel-drive model (all include high- and low-range transfer cases). offers several packages and individual options beyond the four-wheel-drive system to increase the already formidable off-road capabilities, including locking differentials and skid plates

The Range

Bodystyles: SUV

Engines: 3.7L V-6, 5.7L V-8, 6.1L V-8

Transmissions: 5-speed automatic

Models: Laredo, Limited, SRT8

What's New

For 2010 the Overland trim level of the Jeep Grand Cherokee has been discontinued. Jeep has also done away with the 4.7-ltier V-8 as well as the 3.0-liter diesel V-6. The rest of the Grand Cherokee line sees minor changes to some of the features available in each trim level.

Exterior

The 2010 Jeep Grand Cherokee still has the rough and rugged looks of a Jeep, but the lines have definitely softened. While the SRT8 has a mean, aggressive street car look with dual exhaust pipes coming out of the center or the rear end.

Interior

The Cherokee definitely gets a higher quality interior compared to the rest of the Jeep line; equaling the Commander. Comfortable front seats but somewhat cramped rear seats all of which are covered in leather.

Performance & Handling

A 3.7-liter V-6 producing 210 horsepower and 235 pound-feet of torque come standard in Grand Cherokee Limited and Laredo models with the 5.7-liter V-8 with 357 horsepower and 389 pound-feet is available as an option. The high performance SRT8 gets the powerful 6.1-liter V-8 producing 420 horsepower and 420 pound-feet, all Grand Cherokees only have one transmission available, the five-speed automatic.

Safety

The Grand Cherokee features 4-wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS), dual front, curtain first and second row overhead airbags, airbag occupancy sensor, stability and traction control, roll over detection system and trailer sway control is an option on Laredo and Limited.

2010 Jeep Wrangler

2011-02-21T01:44:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $22,045 - $32,745

Invoice: $21,431 - $30,818

MPG: 15 City / 19 Hwy

Overview

The Jeep Wrangler has been in the market for more than seven decades and it was at first offered only as a military application. The carmaker later made the vehicle available for the public once the troops returned from World War II boasting how wonderful the vehicle was to use.The Wrangler has endured many changes but it still holds highly desirable features. The 2010 model is durable, and supplies exceptional on the road and off-roading features. As consumer demand changed, the carmaker also change the Wrangler by adding more cargo space, stereos, air condition controls, comfortable seating, and increased passenger room. Nevertheless, with a long list of features the Wrangler is still lacking.The Wrangler has a softer rooftop offering practically nothing in the way of protection during an accident and it does little to hinder thefts. The zip-up Windows cause the same issues. The Wrangler has a lot of noise inside the cabin due to a substandard construction. If you can handle the noise and compromised cargo space the Jeep Wrangler is an ideal choice for you.

Other Off-Road SUVs

There are few other off-road SUVs that offer styling as distinctive and off-road abilities as rugged as the Wrangler. The starts at about $3,000 more than the Wrangler. Its quirky looks and rock-crushing off-road skills make it a big hit with reviewers. Just know that you’re not getting a lot of everyday practicality with the FJ either.
If you’re looking at a fully-loaded Wrangler Unlimited, put the on your list. It costs a lot more than the base Wrangler, but is comparable to the upper trims. The 4Runner is also a credible off-road vehicle, but unlike the Wrangler, reviewers say it’s comfortable on-road as well, and can even do family car duty.

Details: Jeep Wrangler

For 2011, Jeep has improved the Wranglers interior, which has long been a sore spot for reviewers. The updated Wrangler has nicer materials, as well as more sound-deadening material and available high-tech features. Reviewers say the changes make the off-road-ready Wrangler more livable, but still not as comfortable as a crossover SUV. The Wrangler comes in three trim levels -- the base Sport, Sahara, and top-of-the-line Rubicon -- in either a basic two-door or an Unlimited four-door version. Check out that may be available.

"Although the new interior duds make comparisons to less-hard-core SUVs -- the ones people drive to Starbucks and never take off-road --more relevant than ever, this remains a one-of-a-kind vehicle that’s fun in almost any weather and over almost any terrain, category five hurricanes and lava fields (just barely) excluded."

"The Unlimited is pretty good by Wrangler standards, but holds little appeal if you're not a Jeep fan." --
"The...Jeep Wrangler can't be beat for heritage, image and no-compromises off-road ability. But compared to some other SUVs, it lacks refinement and power."
"The beauty of the four-door Wrangler Unlimited is that it still packs the rugged looks of the iconic two-door, but in stretched form. As long-time admirers, we enjoy the Wrangler's looks, especially sans roof, and after driving it in its natural habitat (off the beaten path), the Wrangler's capabilities never ceased to amaze.

7.7 (Good)

The Wrangler is perfect for off-road enthusiasts, but anyone else is likely to be disappointed by its clumsy on-road handling and glacial acceleration. "This off-roader emphasizes rock-crawling over highway comfort, and when it comes to hard-core trailblazing, it's rarely matched,” explains

8.3 (Very Good)

The Jeep Wrangler has hung onto its iconic look for generations now, and reviewers don’t mind. The Wrangler can be had with a soft or removable hardtop, and in two or four door models.

6.0 (Mediocre)

The Jeep Wrangler is all about being rough and ready, but for 2011, Jeep has redesigned the dash and improved the interior materials. The result, reviewers say, is an interior that’s just as rugged as before, but more inviting as well.

6.3 (Mediocre)

The Wrangler comes with several accident avoidance features as standard equipment. The hasn’t crash tested the 2011 model yet, but the insurance industry has. Side impact crash test ratings for the Wrangler are not as good as the competition.

NA

Jeep offers a three-year/36,000-mile . Its powertrain warranty is longer than what many competitors offer.

2010 Jeep Liberty

2011-02-20T23:49:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $23,250 - $28,250

Invoice: $22,598 - $27,278

MPG: 16 City / 22 Hwy

Overview

While the Patriot has been based upon the Jeep Cherokee, the Jeep Liberty derives its roots from the Jeep Wrangler. One will find that the Liberty is far more brawny, aggressive, and rugged then the Wrangler however. Proving far more than skin deep, the vehicle's aggressiveness digs well beneath the vehicle's exterior since the Liberty has superior off-road capabilities. The Liberty is heavier, bigger, and its motor is a bit underpowered. The engine is coupled with a four-speed transmission that slightly diminishes off-road fun.The Liberty's exterior is breathtaking, but the interior is absent of some nicer amenities found in other Jeeps. The cabin is an improvement over the Compass or the Patriot, but you get minor leather elements combined with hard, cheap plastic components in the newest Liberty models.The Jeep Liberty is wider and longer than earlier models before it. It has improved handling and driving abilities. It's larger size ensures greater passenger room and improved materials have been instilled inside the cabin. Nevertheless, this vehicle proves somewhat cheap when compared to other Jeeps offered by the carmaker.

Other SUVs to Consider

Depending on what you’re looking for -- higher fuel economy ratings, a car-like driving experience, better off-road capabilities, increased cargo capacity or a cheaper price -- there are other compact SUVs that will better suit your needs.
For starters, check out the . Both are ranked at the top of the class and offer a lot more cargo space (about 73 cubic feet) and have better fuel economy ratings (about 22/28 mpg city/highway). These compact SUVs, however, are not designed for off-roading and drive more like a car than an SUV.
If you need an SUV that can haul your family and luggage and handle rough terrain, try the . The Xterra starts at $23,850, just a bit more than the Liberty, and has a more powerful engine. Unfortunately, you’ll have to compromise fuel economy. -rated at 15/20 mpg city/highway for the five-speed automatic and four-wheel drive system, this SUV has one of the worst fuel economy ratings in the class.
For a little bit of everything at a class-competitive price, go for the, which offers amenities like Bluetooth hands free technology, steering wheel mounted controls, a navigation and backup warning system for $23,990, just $765 above the Liberty’s base starting price. The Sportage also has all-wheel drive options, but those start at $21,795, which is still cheaper than the Jeep Liberty.

Details: Jeep Liberty

The Liberty is available in three trim levels -- Sport, Renegade and Limited -- which offer four-wheel drive systems. The Liberty hasn’t changed much since 2009, so you can save money by purchasing a used 2009 model or a 2010 model that’s still on dealer lots. Check out our for current incentives.

"The bad news is that unless you're off-roading or towing something, the Liberty just isn't up to par. This compact Jeep isn't nearly as comfortable or maneuverable as top-rated models like the CR-V, Chevrolet Equinox, Subaru Forester and Toyota RAV4."
"Since the new one is easier on the eyes, a bit more fuel-efficient and has a few new convenience features, it should continue to appeal to its soft-core demographic."
"Inside and out, I appreciated the rugged nature of the Liberty's looks. However, the Liberty should have given me more features, more storage space and a better ride despite its somewhat modest price tag."

6.6 (Mediocre)

Test drivers say the 2011 Jeep Liberty isn’t engineered for city driving, and its off-road capabilities are subpar. The "Liberty never lets you forget that it's a truck,” says . “Body lean is prevalent, and the tires squeal even in modest cornering. Steering feel is nothing special. The brakes on one test model had dull, wooden pedal action, and simulated panic stops caused moderate nosedive."

7.8 (Good)

Reviewers like the Liberty's edgy, rugged look and its optional canvas roof most. "Unlike many panoramic sunroofs offered today, Jeep's Sky Slider roof is made of canvas rather than glass," explains "The fabric roof folds on itself as it opens, and Jeep says the top is leak-proof."

7.1 (Good)

The 2011 Jeep Liberty’s interior is adequate. It’s comfortable enough and offers the basic features shoppers prioritize. But when you compare the Liberty to like that offer more features for less, it can’t compete.

- 8.2 (Very Good)

The 2011 Jeep Liberty hasn’t been crash tested yet, but features plenty of standard safety equipment -- including stability control and side air bags. The performs well crash tests, but doesn't do as well in tests.

2010 Jeep Compass

2011-02-20T23:23:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $19,295 - $25,995

Invoice: $18,962 - $25,000

MPG: 23 City / 27 Hwy

Overview

The 2010 Compass is definitely a nice looking ute. The Jeep Compass is not necessarily a coveted offering however because consumers want more from a Jeep than an attractive look. The Compass lacks many of the attributes that consumers crave from a Jeep. It isn't brawny, and while it hosts squared wheel arches and the seven-slot grille of the popular Jeeps, it lacks much in the way of desirable features.The Compass has substandard off roading abilities because it has a four-cylinder motor and a CVT transmission. You can make it more exciting if you go for the five-speed manual transmission, but the "fun element" is still limited. It comes with front-wheel drive configurations As a standard; this is not a typical Jeep vehicle by any means.The inside of the Compass is equal to the exterior in terms of quality. The Liberty, Patriot and the Compass all sport cheap, hard, unattractive plastic elements and bland interiors. If you want a well-mannered vehicle with a good fuel economy, you get that much out of the Compass and not much more.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you’re concerned with price, very few SUVS can beat the Jeep Compass’s $19,295 base price. The is one option. Starting at $15,995, the Patriot is capable off-road, but isn’t as comfortable as other on the market. If you need a comfy daily driver, the Patriot isn’t it. On the other hand, the is an affordable commuter. It has optional all-wheel drive, a nice list of standard features that includes USB auxiliary input jacks and a center armrest with storage.
The Tucson prioritizes comfort, affordability and practicality over performance, so if you’re looking for a more capable four-wheel drive vehicle, there are better options like the With AWD, the Vitara starts at $23,374, and even comes standard with navigation. The Vitara, however, is more comfortable off-road, so if you want a comfortable commuter, it isn’t a good choice. The FJ Cruiser starts at $26,470 when you add AWD, which makes it $5,995 more than the base Compass, but it is a better vehicle. In addition to unique, retro exterior styling the FJ Cruiser has a powerful V6 engine. We named the Cruiser the 2010 .

Details: Jeep Compass

The Jeep Compass has been redesigned for the 2011 model year. Its exterior has been updated and new optional four-wheel drive systems match the off-road capabilities of other SUVs in the Jeep lineup. The 2011 Compass is available in three trims: Compass, Latitude and Limited. Three drivetrain configurations are available: front-wheel drive, Freedom Drive I and a Freedom Drive II Off-Road Package. Freedom Drive I and II are Jeeps’ four-wheel drive systems. The main difference between the two is that Freedom Drive II is Trail Rated.
The Compass starts at $19,295. Jeep hasn’t released pricing information for all-wheel drive and optional features.

"That’s a disingenuous offer, really, because the 2011 Jeep Compass is actually pretty decent. As has been the trend recently, Jeep spent what little money it had on fixing the bits that needed it most." --
"And we say this not only because it looks 10,000 times better than the previous version, but because it is now authentically competitive within its admittedly narrow segment. Its interior look and feels, dare we say it, nice."
"No matter how much work Jeep has put into this crossover for 2011, the Compass nameplate carries some serious baggage. The Compass will always be remembered for trying to stretch the Jeep brand a little too far..." -

7.5 (Good)

For 2011, the Jeep Compass gets off-road capabilities. Reviewers aren’t overly impressed with the system, but they are pleasantly surprise that the Compass is capable of trudging off the beaten path -- even if it does struggle at times.

8.5 (Very Good)

What do reviewers like most about the redesigned Compass? Its exterior styling. “Just take a look at that face,” says “The design team at Jeep did an amazing job of making the Compass more attractive in an incredibly short period of time."

6.5 (Mediocre)

For 2011, the Jeep fitted the Compass with nicer interior plastics and added a few optional and standard features. However, the Compass’ interior is still subpar when compared the which have more cargo room and more comfortable interiors.

NA

The has not tested the 2011 Jeep Compass. However, the Compass is equipped with an array of safety equipment

NA
The Compass comes with a three-year/36,000-mile

2010 Jeep Patriot

2011-02-20T23:17:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $15,995 - $23,895

Invoice: $15,850 - $23,276

MPG: 23 City / 29 Hwy

Overview

One look at the Jeep Patriot and the consumer will notice that it is a smaller version of the Cherokee. The Jeep Patriot is almost as capable in terms of offering capabilities as the Cherokee is, and it still sports the iconic seven-slot-Jeep grille, a block-styled front fascia, squarish contours, and the well-known Jeep feel. When examining the interior however, the consumer will long for improvements because the Patriot lacks many of the stylish amenities found in alternative Jeeps.The Grand Cherokee has a well-executed cabin crafted with quality materials and components. The interior offers up leather seating. In contrast, the Jeep Patriot lacks all of the latter mentioned attributes found in the Cherokee. Instead, the Jeep Patriot is made with inexpensive plastics and the upholstery is made of cloth.For the Jeep enthusiast, the Jeep Patriot still delivers what one would expect from the carmaker, but few amenities are offered. This, of course, makes the vehicle affordably priced. If you want a good looking ute you will definitely have to be willing to pay more money to get it.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you want something more comfortable than the Patriot, you’ll have to pay more and give up some off-roading ability to get it. The 2011 is an affordable small SUV that trumps the Patriot when it comes to interior comfort and standard features. It starts at about $500 more than the Patriot, and while it lacks the Patriots classically-Jeep styling, reviewers say it’s a more well-rounded SUV.
You can gain some around-town comfort while keeping some rugged ability by going for the. Reviewers like the Forester’s practical interior and great safety scores. While it is about $2,000 more than the Patriot, it has standard all-wheel drive. You have to pay about $1,500 extra on top of the Patriot’s base price to get a four-wheel drive model, so in the end, you only end up paying about $500 more for the Subaru.

Details: Jeep Patriot

For 2011, the Patriot gets some changes. The exterior styling has been refreshed and a few new colors have been introduced. New interior materials have been added and Jeep has made some changes to the optional features list.
The Jeep Patriot comes in two trims -- the base Sport and the Limited -- which are available in front- or four-wheel drive. Check out our to see what's available.

"Compared to the mechanically similar Jeep Compass, Patriot feels more like an authentic Jeep. Compass and Patriot lack the on-road polish and cabin refinement of other vehicles in this class, but Patriot compensates somewhat with impressive available off-road capability."
"I still feel a pull to the Jeep Patriot's total package: It's an SUV that looks like an SUV but doesn't feel like an SUV; and for around $4,000 less than the Liberty."
"Some refinement issues -- both engines sound particularly coarse, especially with the CVT -- and a substandard driving experience are of concern, but the Patriot's price and good looks might be enough to sway some buyers.
"All told, the Patriot is slowly starting to grow on us. We've learned to live with its on-road stodginess, and unless we consider the Volvo XC-series and Land Rover's LR2, we'd be hard-pressed to name another midsize crossover we've driven recently that handles the number of off-pavement surfaces as well as the Patriot can -- and it's a lot less expensive than those other rigs, even at $28K."

7.2 (Good)

If you occasionally go off-road and want an SUV that can go with you, The Jeep Patriot is a good choice. Though not quite as rough-and-tumble as some off-roaders, the Patriot’s good fuel economy and reasonable comfortable on-road performance make it a smart choice for the occasional rock-crusher. However, being the most comfortable off-road SUV for everyday driving doesn’t mean the Patriot is as comfortable as most crossover SUVs.

7.1 (Good)

The 2011 Jeep Patriot has boxy styling that reviewers love. They think it looks like classic Jeep designs from the past.

7.2 (Good)

Reviewers say the 2011 Jeep Patriot has an interior that’s in-line with its price – just keep in mind that the Patriots price is one of the lowest in the class. Most say the interior is nicer than it used to be, but it still isn’t nice. Cargo capacity is good, but the rear seat is cramped and the list of standard features is short.

10.0 (Excellent)

Only thhas tested the 2011 Jeep Patriot, and named it a "Top Safety Pick." The Patriot also comes with a substantial list of standard safety equipment with features that are usually found on more expensive vehicles. However, supplemental front seat-mounted side airbags, which come standard on the Patriot's top competitors, are just optional.

NA

The Patriot comes with Jeep's basic limited three-year/36,000-mile which is on the shorter side compared to the class. However, the Patriot’s powertrain warranty is long for the class.

2010 Jaguar XK

2011-02-20T23:12:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $82,150 - $88,150

Invoice: $74,757 - $80,217

MPG: 16 City / 24 Hwy

Overview

The existence of the Jaguar XJ and the XF makes the XK the oldest car offered by the carmaker. The XK is just four years old in its present generation. This vehicle is one of the few British Roadsters that remain. It is appealing to behold, and throughout its history so far, it has gotten many improvements.The XK does retain its competitiveness but it still struggles because it has aging style. Unlike other competing models, the XK is offered with no alternatives other than the automatic transmission. What's more, it has older entertainment features and a substandard navigation system offering.The XK Jaguar for the 2010 year has several enhancements. The car buyer can choose from one of the two V-8 engines that are offered. The car has improved exterior and interior elements as well. This car stands as a serious leader in the car segment to date. The cabin quality is fantastic after major enhancements have been made. The XKR is the uppermost trim and it has superior add-ons for performance in addition to spectacular handling and response.

Other Sports Cars to Consider

If you're in the market for a sporty cruiser that's luxurious too, test drive the -- which is also available in coupe and convertible body styles. For less refinement, but better sports performance and an even flashier exterior design, check out the . While its Dodge nameplate doesn't carry the same clout as Jaguar, the Viper model instills fear and respect in many enthusiast circles. And though it was speculated that Dodge would nix in 2010, it lives.

Details: 2010 Jaguar XK

The 2010 Jaguar XK is available in two body styles, coupe and convertible. A high-performance model is also available.

"The XK and cars like it - including the Mercedes-Benz SL550 and BMW 650i convertible - have very specific purposes that can be summed up in a few words: Get me where I need to go in comfort and style. Based on these criteria, the XK is a resounding success, and its quick acceleration and surprising athleticism even offer something for driving enthusiasts."
"This is a handsome, elegant coupe that perfectly blends luxury and sportiness. The quintessentially British interior trappings are first-rate, and the ride is supple yet taut. Rear-seat space is a joke, but the rest of the XK is so nice that it can be forgiven."
"It is a beautifully sculpted sportscar that is as much a vehicle in which you can enjoy the ride, as it is one to show you have arrived."
"If you favor premium sports cars that match sensual design cues with outstanding creature comforts and you will happily trade a measure of brute force for more sophisticated ride and handling characteristics, the only choice you'll need to make is for a 2010 XK Coupe or an XK Convertible." --

8.7 (Very Good)

Faster and more powerful than last year's model, the 2010 Jaguar XK leaves test drivers impressed. "More sports car than supercar in either body style, the 2010 Jaguar XK embodies the Grand Touring ethos with a total package that's capable, comfortable and exceptionally rewarding, whether you're in high-profile cruise or hard-charge mode," writes The 2010 Jaguar XK features a 385-horsepower V8 engine.

8.8 (Very Good)

Critics like the 2010 Jaguar XK's refreshed exterior design. "Few cars of any kind can match the exotic visual character of the 2010 Jaguar XK's sleekly contoured aluminum bodywork," writes . "Classic long-nose/short-deck proportions impart a sporting flair to both the Coupe and Convertible that hearkens back to the marque's legendary E-Type." The convertible-model 2010 Jaguar XK features a power retractable soft top.

7.9 (Good)

Reviewers report that the 2010 Jaguar XK's front seats are very comfortable. Its back seat, however, is an entirely different story. "The backseat is such only in name," writes. "There's no legroom unless the front occupants slide forward, and the seat cushions have oddly shaped contours." The 2010 Jaguar XK's cabin is also characterized by elegant materials and a somewhat controversial multipurpose touchscreen system.

NA

The 2010 Jaguar XK has not yet been crash tested It is, however, packed with an impressive array of advanced safety features -- including front dual-stage chest airbags and seat-mounted side airbags.

7.0 (Good)

The 2010 Jaguar XK reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided . This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Protecting the 2010 Jaguar XK is a four-year/50,000-mile limited , as well as six years of corrosion protection.

2010 Infiniti EX35

2011-02-20T23:06:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $34,550 - $38,150

Invoice: $31,924 - $35,241

MPG: 17 City / 24 Hwy

Overview

Infiniti's 2010 EX is the least expensive, smallest, car-like crossover ute that the carmaker offers; this vehicle is just below the larger, eight-passenger Infiniti QX, and Infiniti FX. The Infiniti EX appeals to yuppies or empty nesters. It's stylish and sporty and comes with a V-6, 297 horsepower engine. It comes in a hatchback silhouette configuration; the GT based on the G sedan hosting a sporty suspension.In terms of utility, the EX is substandard. It has 28.5-inches of space in terms of legroom, a cargo capacity of 16.8 cubic feet, and 5.7-inch ground clearance. Consumers wanting seating for the kids or ample cargo space will find the EX lacking. Competing vehicles have 7-inches of ground clearance, 35 inches of legroom in the rear, and 29 cubic feet of cargo space. . The EX conquers zero-to-sixty in all of 6.5 seconds and covers a quarter mile in 14.9 seconds at speeds of 94.5 miles per hour. The EX handles and brakes just like a sports sedan since it has a 123-foot sixty-to-zero stopping distance and 0.81 g of lateral gap.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

If you need a more spacious luxury SUV, consider the . While the base model has performance that’s only pleasant, reviewers love the turbocharged T5 model. Plus, the XC60 has a lot more passenger and cargo space.
Buyers who need more space but aren’t willing to compromise on sporty performance are going to have to pay more. The costs a lot more than the EX does, but it has performance in-line with a sports sedan, and a lot more cargo and passenger room than the EX. Despite the extra chunk of change it takes to get into the X3, it’s a more credible family car.

Details: Infiniti EX

The 2011 Infiniti EX35 comes in base and Journey trims. With either trim, the EX has standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive. For 2011, the EX gets a new seven-speed automatic transmission (it can be shifted manually). Blind Spot Warning has been added to the technology package and 18 inch wheels are now standard.

"Given its standout sheetmetal, athletic chassis, foremost luxury, and clever technologies, the EX should prove a formidable player in its segment, even in light of its shortfalls. Really, how far can you fall when you possess style, speed, and sport?" -
"With its smooth, powerful engine and well-appointed cabin, EX35 is a sportier, more luxurious alternative to Acura's RDX. Like G37's comfortable, posh interior, sporty performance, and available AWD but need more cargo utility? This premium-compact SUV has you covered."
"As far as SUVs are concerned, the EX35 lacks the off-road image of some competitors, but when it comes to recreational SUVs and sport-back 5-door sedans, you'll be hard pressed to find a better luxurious entry-level variant than the EX35."
"In summary, Infiniti has a clear winner here: an exceptionally well-sculpted crossover utility/wagon with a very attractive interior, excellent safety engineering, reasonably good mileage, and exceptional road performance."

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Infiniti EX has one of the most powerful engines in the class, plus standard rear-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is available). Reviewers say it offers one of the best drives in the class and compare it to sports sedans more often than SUVs.

8.7 (Very Good)

The 2011 Infiniti EX has a sleek and sporty interior that reviewers love. In fact, the EX is one of the most stylish SUVs in the class. One cool feature is the EX’s self healing paint, which, in a process that seems straight out of sci-fi, can repair minor scratches by itself.

7.5 (Good)

The interior of the 2011 Infiniti EX 35 is one of reviewers’ favorite parts about the car. The interior has top-notch materials and construction, plus available high-tech features that are easy to use. The front seats are comfortable, but once you move behind the front row, the reviews get more negative. Reviewers say the second row is cramped and that the EX lacks cargo space.

10.0 (Excellent)

Thehaven’t tested the 2011 Infiniti EX yet, but they gave the very similar 2010 Infiniti EX good scores in crash tests. In addition to good crash test scores, the EX has some innovative safety features. A reviewer favorite is the impressive Around View Monitor system.

2010 Infiniti G37

2011-02-20T23:01:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $33,250 - $43,550

Overview

The G model by Infiniti is now in its second generation; the sedan, coupe or convertible configurations are available. The Infiniti G has a luxurious cabin, exceptional driving dynamics, and superb acceleration. The vehicle has a 3.7 Liter V-6 motor married to one of two trannys: the six-speed manual gearbox or the seven-speed, downshift, rev-matching, automatic gearbox. The former gearbox is offered with paddle shifters crafted out of magnesium.The coupe and sedan configurations are fitted with ATESSA ET-S All Wheel Drive for car buyers demanding excellent on the road grippage. The G also comes in a convertible configuration too; it has a hardtop, smooth folding roof that opens or closes in roughly thirty seconds. All configurations have an engine offering 325 horsepower. The G conquers zero-to-sixty in 6 seconds and gets 24 mpg.The Infiniti G has an optional package offering eighteen or nineteen-inch alloy wheels, speedy steering, and high performance, four-wheel disc brakes. The G is crafted to compete with the 3 Series by BMW and car buyers will find that G less expensive than the competition.

Reviewers almost unanimously gush over the G37 Sedan's exterior. Car and Driver raves about the "crisp styling" on the exterior of the G37, which Kelley Blue Book says is highlighted by "an eye-catching grille treatment with four sculpted bars that twist from center to edge like traditional Japanese sword blades." Kelley Blue Book finds that the "well-tailored sheetmetal effectively complements the G37 sedan's sporting character" as it tastefully blends "crisp lines and sensual contours" to make a "visually distinctive styling statement." Edmunds reviewers note as much when they contend that the G37 "looks distinctive...from its swoopy exterior styling to its origami paper-inspired 'Washi' aluminum interior trim."
Inside, the G37 has the cockpit feel of a sports coupe in front, with narrow footwells, a rather low seating position, and a prominent center console—redesigned for 2010—that wraps back between occupants. Big, round dials are set directly in front of the driver, and a strong beltline wraps around to the door panels. A screen mounted top and center accesses audio and climate functions, while supplemental controls are just under the screen.
Curiously, Kelley Blue Book also mentions paper with regard to the interior, noting the "aluminum accent trim textured to resemble traditional Japanese handmade paper." The reviewer warns that the "cockpit-like ambiance may strike some as a bit busy," but at least "the controls are logically arrayed and the flashy electroluminescent main gauges are quite legible."

The Range

Bodystyles: Coupe, Convertible, Sedan
Engine: 3.7L V-6
Transmissions: 6-speed manual, 7-speed automatic
Models: G37 Coupe, G37 Coupe Journey, G37x Coupe AWD, G37 Coupe Sport 6MT, G37 Convertible, G37 Convertible Sport 6MT, G37, G37 Journey, G37x AWD, G37 Sport 6MT

What's New

To commemorate the brand's twentieth year in the U.S., Infiniti is offering Anniversary Editions of the G in all three bodystyles. Painted in a special gray hue and featuring unique red leather trim, the Anniversary Editions come with a seven-speed automatic, navigation, sport package and four-wheel active steer (sedan, coupe), climate-controlled seats (convertible), revised fascias, and new alloy wheels with W-rated summer tires.

Exterior

Even after a few years on the market, the second-gen G line still looks fresh, what with a wave-style hood, double-arch grille, sweeping character lines, and L-shaped HID headlamps. Sporty wheels, ranging from 17 to 19 inches, complete the sport/luxury image.

Interior

Arguably the finest in their class, G interiors come standard with leather trim, power front seats, automatic climate control, aluminum trim, intelligent key, and pushbutton start. Options include Bluetooth, navigation, back-up camera, and heated seats.

Performance & Handling

A 3.7-liter, 24-valve V-6 motivates the various G models, offering specific outputs for each -- 325 horsepower for convertible, 328 for sedan, and 330 for coupe. A six-speed manual and seven-speed automatic are available on all models. Rear-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive optional on coupes and sedans. A front control-arm/rear multi-link suspension and available 19-inch alloys deliver decidedly sporty dynamics.

Safety

Standard on all Infiniti Gs are six airbags (dual front, front side, and front/rear curtain), HID headlamps, front-seat active head restraints, and electronic stability control. In case of a rollover, convertibles receive second-row fixed head restraints with pop-up roll bars.

EPA Fuel Economy

G37 Coupe, G37 Coupe Journey, G37, G37 Journey: 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway
G37x Coupe AWD, G37x AWD: 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway
G37 Coupe Sport 6MT, G37 Convertible, G37 Sport 6MT: 17 mpg city/25 mpg highway
G37 Convertible Sport 6MT: 16 mpg city/24 mpg highway

2010 Infiniti FX35

2011-02-20T22:48:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $42,050 - $56,950

Invoice: NA

MPG: 16 City / 23 Hwy

Overview

Fusing luxury, performance, and utility is the FX by Infiniti. The FX is a luxury vehicle and a serious competitor in its segment. Nevertheless, the FX is substandard in terms of utility; it only offers 34.6-inches of legroom in the rear and 32 cubic-feet of cargo space. Meanwhile, the ML by Mercedes Benz sports 42.2 inches of legroom and 32.4 cubic-feet of cargo space.The FX is presently in its second generation. In 2010, the SUV is offered with a DOHC V-6 3.5 Liter, FX35 with 300 hp or a V-8 5.0 Liter FX50 with 390 horsepower. Both come married to a 7-speed automatic gearbox with downshift rev-matching. The Infiniti FX has power steering that's speed sensitive, a front control arm/rear multilink suspension, and 4-wheel disc brakes. Standard features in the FX50 include rear active steering, All-Wheel-Drive and Around View Monitor inclusions.The FX exonerates itself by offering high style and speed. It's made of attractive sheet metal and it hosts eighteen, twenty, or twenty-one-inch alloy wheels. It has gracious exterior curves, an impressive powertrain, and excellent driving manners.

Other Luxury SUVs to Consider

You can get just as much luxury and a lot more utility by going for the . While its performance isn’t as thrilling, it’s a lot more comfortable on a daily basis. Plus, it gets better fuel economy and saves you almost $5,000.
If you need a practical family SUV but want one that’s fun to drive, consider the. It has a ride that’s nearly as fun as the FX’s, and while it isn’t as stylish, it has a lot more cargo space. It also has a standard third row and a second row that can comfortable accommodate adults or three car seats.

Details: Infiniti FX

For 2011, the most notable change to the FX is that prices have dropped. The price of the FX50 has dropped by $2,600 and the price of the FX35 is down $1,250. The Infiniti FX35 features a V6 engine, while the FX50 boasts a V8. All-wheel drive is optional on the FX35 and standard on the FX50.

"FX stands out from the pack for its combination of unique styling, sporty handling, and relative utility. It does, however, make some sacrifices in the ride and rear visibility departments."
"The FX puts the fun in functional."
"The Infiniti FX delivers a stylish crossover sport-utility with a healthy dose of amenities and solid performance at a decent price, and a palette of options to please almost anyone. If you prefer looking good and speed to practicality, comfort and fuel economy it's worth putting on your list."
"While bowing to the inevitable and delivering a better ride and more luxury amenities, the second generation 2009 Infiniti FX also improves on its 'sport-ute that thinks it's a sports car' focus. Its aim of being the fastest, best handling, most techno-savvy CUV on the market is precise. And, for the moment at least, it's there."

8.7 (Very Good)

Reviewers say that buyers looking for a sporty SUV won’t be disappointed by the 2011 Infiniti FX. Either the FX35 or the FX50 has plenty of power and agile handling. However, a few reviewers say that the ride can get a little harsh, especially with the optional Sport Package. There are more comfortable SUVs out there.

7.8 (Good)

While not all reviewers agree that the 2011 Infiniti FX looks good, they all agree that it stands out among other midsize SUVs. "Styling of the FX is a tad overstated, but the overall look evokes motion and excitement," says the . "The front fenders have an exaggerated bulge, but that doesn't matter once you slide behind the wheel.

8.4 (Very Good)

If you need a practical interior, you need to buy something other than the Infiniti FX. Reviewers love the high-tech interior, which has the feel of a cockpit. But, when it comes to passenger and cargo space, the FX falls short.

NA

The 2011 Infiniti FX has a long list of high-tech standard and optional safety equipment. In fact, there are so many accident avoidance features that some reviewers say the systems can get annoying. Like most cars in its price range, it hasn't yet been crash-tested by the . However, the gave the 2011 FX scores of “Good” (the highest possible) in frontal crash tests.

2010 Hummer H2

2011-02-20T22:40:00.000-08:00

MSRP: NA

Invoice: NA

MPG: NA

Overview

The Hummer H1 was the first of three versions of the vehicle; this vehicle was loved because of its impressive off roading capacity. The creation of the H2 soon followed and it retained the same appearance and feel as the H1, but its base configuration was based upon a truck platform by GM. The H1 stemmed from military application vehicles; it was mammoth and difficult to keep between the lines on the road. Its lowest price started at $100,000.00 so it appealed to the wealthy only.The H2 has proven to be attractive, handsome, aggressive and powerful. The vehicle delivers exceptional power, it has a decent ground clearance and the front/rear overhangs on the vehicle are short. This vehicle was sold with a 6.2 Liter V-8 engine married to a 6-speed auto transmission, but it will no longer be offered due to rising fuel costs, the bankruptcy filing of GM, and the absence of a suitable buyer may result in the end of the Hummer very soon. Those seeking a Hummer may find this an ideal time to buy one.

Still, reviewers who can cut through the culture wars and economic news that surround the H2 say it's a great SUV. Its in-your-face styling wins positive reviews, as does its incredible off-road capabilities. Around town, the H2 is somewhat difficult to live with, but if you take it for what it is -- and expensive off-road toy, not a minivan alternative -- reviewers say you should be happy with the Hummer H2.

The H2 is available as a four-door SUV and also an (Sport Utility Truck), which keeps all four doors but replaces the enclosed cargo area with a short truck bed, and is reviewed separately. The H2 has one available powertrain, but two optional packages, Adventure and Lux, add off-roading or interior upgrades. A 2008 redesign increased the H2's power and upgraded the interior; the H2 is largely unchanged for 2010.

Check out this month's to see if there are any discounts avaliable on a new H2.

"Hummer's biggest model is incredibly capable off-road and reasonably well-behaved on-road. Impressive towing capacity adds to the package. For shoppers uncomfortable with Hummer's aggressive styling and with few off-road aspirations, any number of large trucks match the H2's overall utility and trump it for passenger space and fuel economy. "
"Used to climb mountains, the H2 will impress, but if your only climbing is social, it'll be an expensive ascent."
"Its bulky exterior dimensions are at odds with the cramped rear seating and limited cargo room, and its dismal fuel economy will put greedy smiles on the faces of oil execs. For daily use, SUVs like the Land Rover Range Rover, Lincoln Navigator and Mercedes-Benz GL-Class will be much more pleasing to own and offer additional cachet and prestige as well. "
"Truth be told, the H2 is not terribly roomy, nor does it offer much in the way of cargo space, especially with the optional third-row seat in place. If you're looking for a big SUV that is comfortable, roomy and far less fuel-thirsty, you'd be better served with the new Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid or GMC Yukon."

- 7.4 (Good)

The Hummer H2 is built to go off-road. The says, "When one thinks of the ultimate off-road vehicles, three names immediately come to mind . . . Jeep, Range Rover and Hummer -- not necessarily in that order." Experts say the same engineering that makes the H2 so capable off-road provides a ride that isn't uncomfortable, but isn't sedan-smooth, either.

- 7.2 (Good)

The 2010 Hummer H2's bold facade is popular with reviewers, even if some predict that it may turn off some consumers (while turning others on). says, "Patterned after the stalwart military transport Humvee, the H2's dimensions and Tonka-like profile give it the aura of a playground bully." How comfortable you'll be with the H2's military looks depends on how comfortable you are standing out.

7.2 (Good)

Most reviewers say that after a 2008 redesign, the Hummer H2's cabin is finally in line with its price tag. Still, reviewers say that other SUVs offer more spacious and practical cabins.

- NA

The 2010 Hummer H2 has not been rated in government crash tests, but has safety features in line with competitors'.

NA

The H2 comes with a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

2010 Hummer H3

2011-02-20T22:33:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $33,390 - $41,705

Invoice: $31,053 - $38,786

MPG: 14 City / 18 Hwy

Overview

The GM H2 proved a decent selling vehicle. However, GM felt that a vehicle that was more reasonably priced would prove more profitable for them. The idea was to widen the targeted market; thus, the creation of the Hummer 3. The H3 has a GM truck platform and just like the H2, the H3 is suitable for off-road adventures.What saddled the H3 were its subpar power and its bulky body and weight. The Alpha model was created with a 5.3 Liter V-8 engine that gave it plenty of power, but the fuel-economy was still poor.In 2008, the gas shock hit and since that time, the Hummer is coming to the end of its lifecycle. The novelty of the Hummer wore off rapidly and consumers began seeking economical alternatives. Then, GM had a financial crisis that proved the final nail in the Hummer's coffin. Look to dealers lots for super discounts on all Hummers, but don't wait around too long because at low prices they will go quickly and the existing Hummers are the last of their kind.

Other SUVs to Consider

If you just want an SUV that still looks cool, consider the . It offers off-road abilities but also boasts better fuel economy (16/20 mpg) and costs nearly $10,000 less than the Hummer. Another great off-road SUV is the , which performs just as well as the Hummer, saves you another $2,000 off its price, comes with the same rugged styling and has a marginally better fuel economy.

Details: Hummer H3

Buyers should know that the 2009 or 2010 models may be your last chance to get your hands on a Hummer. GM's sale of the Hummer brand to Sichuan Tengzhong Heavy Industrial Machinery, a Chinese company, fell through in late February 2010 because the deal. GM is expected to fold the Hummer brand over time and will continue to honor Hummer warranties. Production has been suspended since January 2010

Since the H3 is on its last legs, demand for the iconic SUV could increase. In this case, the sooner you get to the dealership, the better. The H3 is available in several trims -- the base model (available in base, Adventure and Luxury trims), the H3x, and the performance-minded Alpha. A pickup truck model, the , is reviewed separately.

"If you're drawn to the...Hummer H3's Tonka-truck buff appearance and can make use of its segment-topping off-road capabilities, there's a lot to like here. But its poor fuel economy, significant lack of utility and unrefined nature make it difficult to recommend." -
"Plenty of room for the family and your stuff, a great off-road pedigree, and improved on-road performance comfort." --
"The H3 Alpha is smooth, quiet and comfortable. It's also an ego machine that guzzles gas and is about the size of Liechtenstein. If you can afford the constant fuel bills and have a large parking space, it's the best Hummer yet." -

- 7.8 (Good)

The Hummer H3 is ideal for off-road driving. "Off-road, where gradual and precise throttle response is usually far more important than power (particularly when a low crawl ratio is included), the H3 is just right," says . Unfortunately, it isn't a great performer on the highway (especially with the base engine) and its fuel economy is the lowest in its class.

- 8.5 (Very Good)

Although smaller than other Hummer SUVs, the H3 keeps its appealing military-transport appearance. "Even avowed SUV haters took time to eyeball this one," says the "One of them grudgingly acknowledged that GM has a ‘winner' in this model."

- 7.5 (Good)

The 2010 H3's well-received cabin emphasizes functionality over luxury and fits well with Hummer's rugged image. Still, the interior can't compete with the H3's more refined rivals, especially when it comes to utility. "The H3 is in essence a midsize SUV with a surprisingly small cabin interior and cargo space," says

- 9.2 (Excellent)

The 2010 Hummer H3 receives good scores in most crash tests conducted by the . The 2009 model, however, didn't fare as well in tests. There are also significant rear visibility issues with the H3.

- 5.0 (Mediocre)

The 2010 Hummer H3 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). Hummer offers a five-year/100,000-mile transferable powertrain

2010 Honda Fit

2011-02-20T22:25:00.000-08:00

MSRP: $15,100 - $19,240

Invoice: $14,572 - $18,546

MPG: - TBD - City / - TBD - Hwy

Overview

The Honda Fit entered the United States car market in 2006. At that time, it was already known around the world and the vehicle was coveted by many consumers. More than 2 million units of this four-door hatchback have been sold.The Honda Fit takes the lead in sales because it has agile handling and is sold with a variety of packages. It's an entertaining drive, and the Sport configuration comes with a five-speed automatic transmission and paddle shifters or five-speed manual transmission offering. In the second row, consumers will find the Honda Magic Seat that offers an assortment of alternatives for storage. This vehicle has a greater cargo capacity due to the fuel tanks positioning beneath the front seats ensuring a rear/frontal flat load floor. In 2009, the vehicle got a redesign that positions the vehicle in the compact car segment.In 2011, the Honda Fit remains unaltered. A makeover for the vehicle is expected soon. The carmaker will have no choice but to update the Fit since competitors like the Ford Fiesta offer improved performance and fuel efficiency.

Other Cars to Consider:

The Fit’s biggest drawback is its price. It starts at $15,100, which may be more than some shoppers want to pay. But don’t worry, there are other cars on the market that are appealing and more affordable. The is about $1,600 less and offers funky exterior styling and 53.4 cubic feet of trunk space. While the Soul’s price tag is attractive, its performance capabilities cannot compete with the Fit due to a weak engine and sub-par steering. However, if you’re looking for a car with ample trunk space that will get you to work and back again, the Soul may be the perfect fit.
The Fit’s price is average for hatchbacks. Other hatchbacks on the market include the hatchback, which starts at $15,120, just a 20 bucks more than the Honda Fit. The Fiesta’s shaking the automotive industry with high fuel economy ratings, stellar performance and uncommonly high build quality. You can’t go wrong if you buy this car. Kia is also introducing the . It’s due in 2011, but Kia hasn’t released pricing information or specs on its new addition to the Forte line. Reviewers love the Forte sedan, so it should be worth it to wait for the Forte Hatchback’s debut.
You can also save money by looking at used 2009 Fits and still on dealer lots. It hasn’t changed much since its 2009 redesign, so if you shop around, you might save a few dollars. Take a peek at our page to get started.

Details: 2011 Honda Fit

The Fit is available in three flavors: Base, Sport and Sport with Navigation. The base model starts at $15,100.

"Fit's strongest selling points are its impressive passenger accommodations and large, versatile cargo space. Sport models add a touch of fun-to-drive appeal. While prices seem steep for a subcompact, this is one in name and exterior size only; it's really a small wagon that challenges some compact SUVs for room while getting significantly better fuel economy."
"For the small hatchback shopper, or even car enthusiast daydreamers who need something to get to work, Honda's Fit is the best pick out there."
"Although this entry-level hatchback is priced slightly higher than most of its competition, the Fit nevertheless offers an ample supply of features, versatility and, above all, that unbeatable Honda resale value." -
“The new king of the hill is a subcompact car that has the utility of a minivan, the attitude of a sports coupe and the fuel economy of an automobile deemed socially acceptable in an era of high-priced gasoline.” --

- 8.4 (Very Good)

Despite engine noise, reviewers say the 2011 Honda Fit has a ton of spunk. "The Fit is more than just a practical box,” says . “It is fun to drive."

- 7.3 (Good)

The 2011 Honda Fit is all about functionality, but many reviewers say Honda’s utilitarian priorities result in a geeky exterior. "Another car that is so ugly that it's cute,” says the “But it's design with a purpose, and form, in this case, greatly enhances function."

- 8.8 (Very Good)

The 2011 Honda Fit has an impressive interior, and reviewers couldn’t be more ecstatic. Theagrees, saying the 2011 Fit is "[g]ifted with the interior space and versatility of a well-designed minivan."

10.0 (Excellent)

Thand the have not tested the 2011 Honda Fit, but the highly similar performed well in crash tests with both industries.

NA

Honda gives the 2011 Honda Fit a basic bumper-to-bumper for the first three years or 36,000 miles.