2012 Jaguar XKR S Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Jaguar calls the XKR-S the company’s “most responsive, powerful, agile, and driver-focused production car.” It’s also the quickest ever. Yes, it’s quicker and more potent than even the 1992–94  XJ220 supercar. Stout claim, but the numbers back it up. The twin-turbo 3.5-liter V-6 in the XJ220 we tested 18 years ago [November 1993] ­generated 542 horsepower and 475 pound-feet of torque. The supercharged and direct-injected 5.0-liter AJ V-8 propelling the XKR-S huffs up 550 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 502 pound-feet of torque between 2500 and 5500 rpm. Throttle response is instantaneous and linear, and the aural accompaniment is habit-forming. Like the other XKs, the XKR-S employs a responsive six-speed automatic (with paddle shifters for...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,JAGUAR,LUXURY,SPORTS CAR

2012 Hyundai Veloster Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

On the heels of redesigned Elantra compact and Accent subcompact, the new 2012 Veloster adds a coupe to Hyundai's burgeoning small-car offering (see them compared). The distinctive Veloster is a true three-door hatchback: It has a liftgate, two front doors and a single rear door on the curb side for easier backseat access. By Hyundai's estimation, the Veloster competes with the likes of Honda's CR-Z hybrid and the Scion tC, and might be cross-shopped with the Fiat 500, Mini Cooper and Volkswagen Beetle. The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is a distinctive, high-mileage sport coupe that hints at the excitement to come in future variants. Hyundai simplifies things by offering just one Veloster trim level starting at $17,300, distinguished only...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,HYUNDAI

2011 Ford Edge Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

I've never had a more intense love/hate relationship with a car than the one I experienced during my test drive of the 2011 Ford Edge.  Starting MSRP $27,640–$38,775 There are many things to be excited about with this newly refreshed model that received some styling changes, significant interior upgrades and has such promising family utility, but it's all thwarted by the driving experience and features inside the car that simply don't work. When driving the Edge, it seems like it weighs a ton. I felt like I was hauling a herd of elephants in the back despite the V-6 engine's considerable power. Once you get it moving, this five-seat crossover starts feeling a little boat-like — big, bulky and disconnected from the road. I could...

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2012 Volkswagen Beetle Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

There is an undeniable appeal to a nostalgia ride, whether it be a Mini Cooper, a new Fiat 500 or the car that really started it all: the Volkswagen New Beetle. Now, the 2012 VW Beetle has received a much-needed update. The result is a more sophisticated coupe that's also a better daily driver. Though the Beetle — dropping "New" from its name — is high on style and comfort, the engine is particularly loud, disrupting an otherwise pleasant driving experience. Style There is perhaps no car more iconic than the Beetle. Maybe the Jeep Wrangler is as identifiable, but no other car has been so loved that it spawned a childhood pastime like slugging a sibling in the arm at the sheer sight of one on the road. The 2012 is a seamless transition...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,VOLKSWAGEN

2011 Nissan Sentra Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Some cars get all the attention, and the Nissan Sentra isn't one of them. Its name isn't always uttered in the same sentences as models like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, but after driving one it's clear that it should be; this car deserves to be on compact-car buyers' shopping lists. While you probably wouldn't regret getting a Civic or Corolla, the Sentra outdoes those cars in some areas and offers a number of upscale features for exceptionally affordable prices. In the world of everyday, economy transportation, the Sentra is a pleasant surprise — a hidden gem for those willing to give it a try. I tested an uplevel Sentra 2.0 SL. This trim level starts at $18,560, but with options its as-tested price was $20,630. Styling The...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,NISSAN

2011 Nissan Frontier Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Full-size trucks are a chore to drive in the city — we know; we've done it — so we wanted to see how Nissan's midsize Frontier would handle an urban environment, as well as a junkyard run to get some used parts. There were clear maneuverability and parking advantages that came with this truck's smaller size, but in one particular way the V-6 Frontier is a lot like its larger siblings — and not in a way you'd want. In short, while the V-6 Frontier packs a lot of useful capability in a condensed package, if you've had a chance to sit in any of the newer full-size trucks on the market, you may be disappointed with the Frontier's cabin styling. To see a side-by-side comparison of the 2009 and 2010 Frontier, click here. V-6 Gas Mileage,...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,NISSAN

2011 Infiniti M56 Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

The 2011 Infiniti M37 and M56 replace the 2010 M35 and M45. The difference in name reflects switches to a 3.7-liter V-6 and a 5.6-liter V-8, both of which provide more power, as you'd expect. Many other upgrades come with this complete redesign. (See the two model years compared.) Though beautifully styled inside and outside, the redesigned 2011 Infiniti M sport sedan is frustrated by some quirks and glitches, and it's not as affordable as it used to be. The M comes in three versions: the M37, M56 and an all-new hybrid version, the M35h. The gas-only versions are rear-wheel drive but offer optional all-wheel drive (designated by the "x" suffix). Unlike some competitors, including the BMW 5 Series and Acura TL, the M sedan doesn't offer...

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,INFINITI