2011 Acura TSX Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Sedans don't have to be boring, and the 2011 Acura TSX proves it with its sleek looks and powerful engine.

I enjoyed the youthful feeling the TSX gave me when behind the wheel, but admittedly, that was only when it was just my daughter and I tooling around Los Angeles. When we added my husband into the mix, it became obvious that the TSX can be a tight fit for some families.

It was an unpleasant surprise that the TSX couldn't comfortably fit my family. It is a sedan after all, but with the TSX's sportiness comes tightness in both the front and back seats; it's kind of like a sweater that shrunk a little in the dryer. To accommodate those rear-facing safety seats for the little ones, things in the front get pretty, ahem squishy. Any space in the backseat suddenly vanishes and the glove box starts to appear as if it's protruding much farther into the cabin. Then you find your shorter-than-average adult passenger has their knees jammed into the dash. Needless to say, with more on board than me and my daughter in her infant seat in the back, things started getting claustrophobic. This car would work well once my daughter is in a forward-facing car seat, but that's a long way away for my family.

This is a great car to drive on errands, but if you've got a weekend of family fun planned, the TSX probably won't be the most comfortable for everyone or the most practical.

This sporty number felt nimble on the road, and it was fuel efficient enough to keep me away from the gas station. I drove the four-cylinder model (a more powerful V-6 engine is also available) and it always felt peppy and responsive. It could turn on a dime and hug corners with ease, but the car always felt controlled and comfortable. The driving experience proves that the TSX is definitely not your mom's sedan. Open the sunroof, turn on the satellite radio and you'll feel like taking the scenic route to Gymboree.

The TSX starts at $29,610. My test car had the optional Technology Package, which increased the as-tested price to $33,570.

EXTERIOR

The TSX is definitely stylish, and it looks good without trying too hard. It has a sculpted look, but it's not too bulky or bloated. This five-seater seems to walk a balanced line between feminine and masculine style; it's a car that either Mom or Dad would look good in when behind the wheel.

Being a sedan, it's easy to get in and out of because the doors aren't heavy and it has a low step-in height. The only trouble I had with the TSX was when I loaded my daughter's rear-facing infant seat into the backseat. The car sits low, which is noticeable while driving, and I almost knocked myself out once or twice when I didn't bend down enough to get the car seat inside. I suppose for those who don't mind a little suffering in the name of style, it won't matter a bit.

The TSX's sizable trunk is impressive. The number of things I need to bring with me on a daily basis since having a baby is staggering and knowing I would be test-driving a sedan had me a little concerned. But the TSX just kept taking everything I was putting into it, and I dare say I had more room back there than I do in my own crossover. Who knew this sporty little sedan could also act as pack mule, too?

The TSX has a 201-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, but my car had the optional five-speed automatic. The sedan runs on premium gas and gets an EPA-estimated 21/29 mpg city/highway. This was right on par as I averaged about 24 mpg during the week of my test drive. The gas tank seemed bottomless with its 18.5-gallon capacity. I drove this car everywhere and never had to fill up.

SENSE AND STYLE

Family Friendly (Not Really, Fair, Great, Excellent): Fair

Fun-Factor (None, Some, Good Times, Groove-On): Good Times

INTERIOR

The TSX's interior is sophisticated without being stuffy. There's nothing too trendy or offensive about it; it's just a clean, classic look akin to a fabulous (and flattering) little black dress.

The black-colored perforated leather seats with contrast stitching add to the TSX's youthful feel, and front seats come standard with heaters. The metallic-looking trim is always a welcome alternative to faux wood trim. A prominent knob is located in the middle of the stack and controls many of the audio, phone and navigation functions. This helps to streamline the controls and keep things from appearing cluttered. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: ACURA,AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR

2011 Chevrolet Camaro Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

It can take time to explain to shoppers what a car's best attributes are and why it's better or worse than its competition.

Starting MSRP $22,805–$39,775

Take one look at the Camaro convertible, though, and it is apparent that it's a straightforward American pony car with looks that will turn heads.

It could have a tin can under its hood and the roof could rattle like a barn during a tornado, and people would still buy it. Luckily, the droptop Camaro loses little of the coupe's performance fun. In some ways, it's even more alluring.

Performance

The convertible Camaro comes with either a V-6 or V-8 engine, identical to the two we detailed in full in earlier reviews of the coupe.

My test car had the 312-horsepower V-6 with a six-speed automatic transmission. That's a lot of power for a V-6. It has strong pull as you hammer the gas pedal, and the exhaust note's subtle rumble makes it feel like you're driving a proper muscle car, even if it is down two cylinders from the Camaro SS.

Starting at $29,275, the V-6 will be the way to go for most convertible shoppers. It gets 18/29 mpg city/highway when equipped with the six-speed automatic transmission, 17/28 mpg with the standard six-speed manual.

In addition to my weeklong test drive in a Camaro 2LT convertible, I also took a short drive in a manual SS.

The SS pulls from a dead stop with an enormous amount of brute force — and an exhaust note to match. It's an exhilarating ride that enthusiasts will covet, while the V-6 offers above-average fun for the common man.

Both versions were impressive in terms of stiffness in the body driving through twisty roads.

Many will opt for my test car's optional RS Package and its 21-inch wheels, which look terrific. However, the ride suffers. Standard 18-inch wheels might offer a smoother cruising atmosphere.

Convertible-ness

I was lucky enough to go from driving the Camaro convertible to the Corvette convertible. The changes in convertible design from the aging Vette to the brand new Camaro are obvious in one noteworthy attribute: Highway speeds in the Vette could impair your hearing that's how bad wind buffeting is in there.

The Camaro, on the other hand, certainly allows in enough wind to move your hair, but you can still have a conversation with your passenger, and when you stop the car your ears won't be throbbing.

At cruising speeds of 45 mph, there was very mild wind intrusion, and cruising is what this car is all about.

The top itself also offers decent visibility, especially compared with the Camaro coupe, which is one of the most notoriously hard-to-see-out-of cars ever sold. There's no B-pillar in the convertible, which means that when you look over your right shoulder, you can see a bit more than you can in the coupe. Still, backing out of parking spots is a peril-filled task, especially considering a backup camera won't be available until the 2012 model year.

With the top up on the highway, I had no problem seeing traffic in the blind spot over my right shoulder.

The powered top closes or opens in 16 to 20 seconds, depending on how quickly you lock or release the top manually. The top can be closed while the car's in Drive, but it wouldn't begin operation unless I was stopped, with the brake depressed. I managed two emergency closures before rain, one at a toll stop and another at a rather long red light. In these instances, the mechanism seems to take forever.

The car can drive with the top down and no tonneau cover. Putting on the cover requires getting out of the car, but I managed to get my installation time down to a little over a minute after a few attempts. Removing it took much less time probably 15 seconds, most of it walking from one side of the car to the other.

The tonneau stores in an already cramped trunk, which measures 10.2 cubic feet. A divider that reserves space for the lowered roof takes away a substantial chunk of that volume, bringing the figure down to 7.8 cubic feet. The Ford Mustang convertible has 9.6 cubic feet of luggage room without a divider. Most large items will have to ride in the Camaro's relatively cramped backseat. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,CHEVROLET,SPORTS CAR

2011 Ford Mustang Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

For 2011, Ford issued a mechanical overhaul of its popular Mustang: new engines, quieter interiors, better gas mileage. The lineup's granddaddy, the Shelby GT500, sees smaller improvements by comparison.

Starting MSRP $22,145–$37,845

The Shelby GT500 is still a straight-line juggernaut, but the V-8 Mustang GT is catching up as a performance car and away from the drag strip, the Shelby's handling dynamics leave something to be desired.

Officially called the Ford Mustang Shelby GT500, the car caps a Mustang lineup that includes new V-6 and 5.0-liter V-8 drivetrains. Though the GT500's supercharged V-8 has the same displacementas the 2010 GT500 did, a new aluminum block makes it 100 pounds lighter. Combined with better aerodynamics and new electric power steering, the GT500 is slightly more fuel efficient.

Our full take on the 2011 Mustang is available here. Click here to compare the Mustang lineup, or here to compare the 2011 and 2010 versions of the GT500. This review focuses on what sets the GT500 apart.

Available as a coupe or convertible, the GT500 trades the Mustang GT's galloping emblems and driving lamps for a taller grille, shapelier bumpers and lower fog lights. It ends up looking more similar, particularly up front, to the V-6 Mustang. Having never cared much for the V-8 Mustang GT's gratuitous lower air dam, I welcome the look.

The signage, not so much. Our press car came festooned with nearly a dozen cobra, Shelby, SVT and GT500 icons. (In fairness, you can remove a few, along with the racing stripes, if you want.) The decals signal the car's myriad influences: racing legend Carol Shelby, Ford's Special Vehicle Team, the resurrected GT500 moniker, the original 289 Shelby AC Cobra. I half expected to find an outline of Michigan stamped somewhere.

Ford lowered the car's ride height by nearly half an inch this year. The GT500's standard 19-inch wheels wear high-performanceP255/40ZR19 front and P285/35ZR19 rear tires; our test car had an optional SVT Performance Package that includes thicker, 19-inch front wheels, 20-inch rears and Goodyear Eagle F1 SuperCar tires all around. A set of four of those is just over $1,200 on TireRack.com steep, but not as bad as comparable Pirelli or Michelin sets.

Convertible GT500s employ a power cloth top. In lieu of a traditionalmoonroof, coupe shoppers can opt for an optional fixed glass roof. Previously available only on lesser Mustangs, the roof includes a retractable sun shade.

A new aluminum-block version of Ford's 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 replaces last year's iron-block engine. Up 10 horsepower thanks to revised exhaust tuning, the 550-hp drivetrain idles with a rich interlude of growling, hissing and other certifiably bitchin' noises. It moves out, too: Acceleration lacks the immediacy you get with a larger-displacement V-8, but stay on the gas past 3,000 rpm and the supercharger's high-pitched whine signals serious thrust. Deactivate the traction control and slip the clutch just shy of that mark, and you'll handily spin the rear tires for seconds on end. Peak torque of 510 pounds-feet comes at 4,250 rpm; thundering past that mark toward the engine's 6,250-rpm redline elicits cries of enthusiasm or terror from your passengers.

The SVT Performance Package adds a quicker, 3.73 rear axle ratio. Other GT500s have a 3.55 axle. Our friends at MotorWeek hit 60 mph in 4.5 seconds and did a quarter-mile in 12.9 seconds in a 2010 GT500 convertible with a 3.55 axle. With the 3.73, the lighter 2011 GT500 coupe can probably hit both marks a few tenths of a second quicker. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,FORD,LUXURY

2011 Hyundai Genesis Coupe Specs, Prices and Reviews

Hyundai's Genesis coupe R-Spec is a stripper and not the kind you'll find in a gentleman's club.

Starting MSRP $22,250–$30,750

The R-Spec's goal is performance for the dollar, which means features that don't make the car faster are stripped to keep costs low, while high-performance parts from the coupe's Track model are added.

The 2011 Genesis coupe 2.0T R-Spec is on the right track with its low price ($24,500), but it falls short in the "bang" department with a poky turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and unrefined handling.

The V-6-powered Genesis coupe 3.8 also comes in R-Spec garb, but we have yet to test that version. See our 2010 Genesis coupe review here for a more thorough look at the coupe as a whole.

The R-Spec's suspension the same one that can be found on the coupe's Track models has stiffer springs than the base suspension, plus unique shock absorbers, thicker stabilizer bars and a strut-tower brace. I've driven this setup both on the street and on a racetrack, where the R-Spec's handling often feels unpredictable and squirrely. The rear end is eager to slide around when the electronic stability system is switched off, which isn't the most welcome feeling. Rear-wheel-drive coupes like the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro V-6 and 2011 Ford Mustang V-6 (with the Performance Package) handle more predictably.

I know what you're probably thinking: "So turn the stability control on, dummy!" I wish it were that easy. The Genesis' stability system reacts way too aggressively during spirited driving. It ruins any possible fun by cutting engine power abruptly, stopping the coupe dead in its tracks. The Camaro's and Mustang's systems are less intrusive and can smoothly reel in tail-happy drivers.

On the upside, the Track suspension is perfectly manageable as a daily driver, without being overly harsh or bouncy. Sometimes a "sport" suspension doesn't provide sporty performance, it just beats up drivers with a rough ride instead. The R-Spec's agreeable ride is an admirable feat for its 19-inch wheels wrapped in high-performance, stiff-sidewalled summer tires. However, I would gladly sacrifice some of the R-Spec's ride quality for a more refined handling experience.

Rounding out the R-Spec package is a Brembo braking system andlimited-slip differential. The brakes may be overkill for use on the street: Like many upgraded braking systems, they don't offer much of a different feel until taken to the track, but they do look great combined with the R-Spec's wheels. A limited-slip differential isn't out of the ordinary for cheap-speed cars; one can also be had in the 2011 Mazdaspeed3, the 2012 Honda Civic Si and the Mustang V-6. The Camaro V-6 includes one only on models with manual transmissions.

I wouldn't normally focus on features a car doesn't have, but R-Spec models offer no optional equipment not even features that come standard on the less-expensive base model, including cruise control, automatic headlights and upgraded interior trim pieces. These deletions do keep its price low, however, and the only feature I really missed was cruise control.

Those wanting a sunroof, navigation, automatic transmission or a choice between more than three exterior colors can cross the R-Spec off their list. The pricier Genesis coupe 2.0T Premium is a feature-laden model with all the aforementioned options, sans the R-Spec's performance upgrades.

Even with those features deleted, the R-Spec isn't a total stripper: It retains carpet, air conditioning, power windows and locks, a USB audio input and steering-wheel audio controls.

Under the Hood

The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder feels more powerful than its 210-horsepower rating suggests. Even so, it doesn't move the coupe quickly enough to make it stand out from the competition. The Mazdaspeed3, Subaru Impreza WRX and six-cylinder versions of the Mustang and Camaro have more to brag about under the hood.

Editor Mike Hanley mentioned in his review of the 2010 Genesis coupe that the 306-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 engine is the way to go in this car, and I agree. At $26,750, the 3.8 R-Spec is a worthier choice because the base car itself is already a more potent performer, even before the R-Spec additions. Plus, the 3.8 R-Spec represents a $4,000 discount versus the Track trim level with the same performance upgrades. That's a bargain if you're comfortable with deleting certain convenience features. The 3.8 addresses half of my beef with the coupe, though it still has the same handling issues as the 2.0T R-Spec. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,HYUNDAI

2011 Land Rover LR4 Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Compared with its predecessor, the LR4 luxury SUV is much more appealing for shoppers who'd like to conquer rugged off-road trails and go for a night on the town all in the same SUV.

Land Rover's improvements also make the LR4 a legitimate competitor to SUVs like the Audi Q7 and Mercedes-Benz M-Class.

It's better because it features a dapper cabin something that was sorely missing from the previous version, the LR3 and a new V-8 engine that makes 75 more horsepower than the LR3's V-8, but with the same EPA estimated gas mileage: a still-thirsty 12/17 mpg city/highway.

Land Rover's top-of-the-line Range Rover has excelled at being a multifaceted SUV for years, thanks to its on- and off-road performance, and the LR4 promises most of that versatility — for quite a bit less cash.

The Look

"LR4" is a new name for Land Rover, but if you're familiar with the brand's lineup, you'll instantly think of the outgoing LR3 when you see it. In profile, the two SUVs look nearly identical. The primary styling differences are in front and around back.

Changes to the front include new headlights and a new grille that bring the LR4's styling more in line with the rest of Land Rover's lineup. The rear gets new taillights. The styling is still distinctly Land Rover, with its upright, angular elements, which should satisfy the brand faithful. To see a side-by-side comparison with the 2009 LR3,click here.

Driving It

The LR4's ride quality brought the Range Rover to mind. Thestandard height-adjustable air suspension is tuned for comfort, and it wasn't even ruffled by the rough roads you inevitably encounter in Chicago, where I spent the majority of my time driving the LR4. Even though the LR4 is a tall SUV, with 7.3 inches of ground clearance in the suspension's regular mode, it doesn't exhibit excessive body rollin corners, which is a confidence-booster for drivers.

The LR4's curb weight is a hefty 5,703 pounds, but it feels swift for a big SUV. Credit the new 375-hp, 5.0-liter V-8, which is standard. The engine features direct-injection technology and pulls strongly when accelerating at midrange speeds. There's power to spare on the highway — though not as much as you might expect from a 375-hp V-8.

In a luxury SUV, how the engine delivers its power is just as important as how much power it has, and the LR4's V-8 is smooth and refined. It works with a six-speed automatic transmission that knocks off smooth shifts, though it can be a bit hesitant to kick downat highway speeds when more power is needed.

One thing shoppers will immediately like about the LR4 when they get behind the wheel is the great forward views afforded by its elevated seating position. You sit a lot higher than most vehicles on the road, and that gives you a good view of what's happening in front of you. The windshield and side windows are also big, putting the higher stance to good use as far as visibility is concerned.

The suspension tuning feels firmer when you take the LR4 up to highway speeds. Up there, bumps and cracks in the road that were easily damped at lower speeds become more noticeable.

Overall, the interior is very quiet. Not many outside noises make it into the cabin, and those that do are muted enough that they're not distracting. Well done, Land Rover. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,LAND ROVER

2011 Scion xB Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Like many aging trendsetters Madonna comes to mind the Scion xB has had a few tweaks for 2011 and arrives on the market with a restyled exterior and some new features on the inside.

Since much of the xB's competition didn't exist when it first entered the market, it was able to rely on its hip-to-be-square looks almost exclusively. Now, the xB competes against the Kia Soul and those rapping hamsters and the Nissan Cube with its quirky/cool raccoon face.

The 2011 model delivers with changes that are subtle yet edgy on the outside and a few new features that add to the interior's comfort and cool factor. The xB's exterior gets new taillights and headlights, restyled front and rear bumpers, and a new grille. New features like a center console with a sliding armrest, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel and more visual panache on the fabric upholstery complete the transformation on the inside.

The combination of these subtle additions and changes makes the 2011 Scion a proudly aging trendsetter that is still interesting to look at just like Madonna.

The Scion isn't totally family-friendly; it only was able to accommodate me and two of my three children at any given moment. Despite Scion's overtly desired target market of trendsetters younger than age 30, I think the 2011 xB is a workable, fun car for anyone of any age, with no more than two children, a tight budget and a penchant for thinking outside (or inside?) the box.

It's also fun to drive. With its boxy shape and high roofline, I felt like I was driving a cartoon car, which is to say it was whimsical and easy to maneuver around town. However, one of the most disappointing things about the xB is its lackluster fuel economy. The Scion xB gets an EPA-estimated 22/28 mpg city/highway. A car this size that is not meant for hauling heavy objects, or even three children, can do better.

The Scion I tested had a starting MSRP of $16,000. With the addition of 19-inch alloy wheels and upgraded tires as well as an upgraded stereo and a few other options, the total came to a still-modest $21,442.

EXTERIOR

Most of the people I encounter in my daily life are the exact opposite of Scion's target demographic. They're the Lexus-driving ladies-who-lunch and the Toyota-driving professional moms and dads of toddlers. None of these people even know that Scion is a part of the Toyota family. Thus, everyone I encountered while testing the xB, from my son's preschool teachers to my husband queried, "What are you driving?" with a flummoxed look. They might as well as have started singing the "Sesame Street" classic, "One of These Things Is Not Like the Other."

Despite no one acknowledging the fact that I am indeed cool enough to drive such a car, the xB unexpectedly tickled my fancy in the looks department. The honeycomb grille and black trim gives it a determined face. The roofline is high and the shape is expectedly square. It rides low to the ground, which makes getting in and out a breeze for the kids and for me when wearing trendsetting platform wedges and pencil skirts.

The Scion xB is longer than many of its competitors, which translates into more cargo space and legroom in the rear. Sixteen-inch wheels are standard, though my test car came with the optional 19-inch alloy wheels. I can't imagine anything smaller than that on this car.

The 2011 Scion xB is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that delivers 158 horsepower, which is plenty for cruising around town. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Both transmissions return 22/28 mpg. The xB uses unleaded gas. Learn More...

Source : http://www.cars.com

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,SCION

2011 Ford F-150 Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

The 2010 Ford F-150 SVT Raptor quickly rose to the top of factory performance trucks with its unique long-travel suspension system and an appearance reminiscent of a Baja trophy truck.

Starting MSRP $22,790–$51,770

It met the untapped demand of off-road enthusiasts looking for a turn-key prerunner. But there was even more demand for a Raptor with extra cabin space from wheelers with families and racers looking for a support vehicle.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,FORD

2012 Honda CR-V Spy Photos - Future Cars

Honda continues its trend of gentle evolution with the next-gen CR-V. A fearless Car and Driver reader in Washington, D.C., snapped a picture of the next-generationHonda CR-V crossover, which will debut this fall.

Wearing less camo than in the spy-snapper photos also published here, the vehicle looks ready for production, wearing its own sheetmetal (rather than the modified body of an existing Honda model) with the badge buried in tape on the tailgate.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,HONDA

2012 Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Call it trickledown turbonomics. Last year, Mercedes-Benz replaced the naturally aspirated 6.2-liter V-8 found in the S63 AMG and CL63 AMGwith a 5.5-liter twin-turbocharged V-8.

Now the 2012 E-class AMG, which goes on sale this fall, receives the downsizing treatment (as does theCLS63 AMG). And, yes, that means the misleading and inaccurate “63” nomenclature is now more inaccurate. With its widespread adoption of turbocharged engines, Mercedes-Benz is abandoning displacement-linked model designations altogether.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,LUXURY,MERCEDES-BENZ

2012 Volkswagen Beetle Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

Throughout its 73-year history, the VW Beetle has embodied VW’s “people’s car” philosophy, the original Type 1 becoming more than 21 million people’s car before production finally ceased in Mexico in 2003.

It was only during the 12-year term of the New Beetle introduced in 1998 and discontinued after the final 2010 models that those people became, by and large, female. In its peak year, the New Beetle sold more than 80,000 copies in the U.S., roughly 75 percent of them to women, based on our observation.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,VOLKSWAGEN

2011 Toyota Avalon Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

The 2011 Toyota Avalon isn't a head-turner; some might even describe this full-size sedan as vanilla, but that shouldn't be a bad thing. The Avalon is the equivalent of an exotic vanilla that's a little richer than the others.

Starting MSRP $33,195–$36,435

While it's missing the wow factor, the 2011 Avalon is comfortable, roomy and uncomplicated, a plus for some parents.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,TOYOTA

2011 Toyota 4Runner Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

The Toyota 4Runner is one of the stalwarts of the SUV community. While many have traded in some of their sport-utility-ness for greater refinement in urban and family environs, the 4Runner has stayed true to its roots.

Starting MSRP $30,305–$40,435

The 2011 Toyota 4Runner is an SUV that knows what it is and what it's best at off-road driving. The 4Runner's rugged confidence is not without some creature comforts, though.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,TOYOTA

2012 Nissan Versa Specs, Prices and Reviews

The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan is about as compelling as an old dishwasher, but its fuel efficiency, roominess and unrivaled value will get a lot of shoppers to overlook that.

Economy cars boast sharper looks and more features than ever, but they're inching up in price — frustrating anyone who wants cheapwheels above all else. 

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,NISSAN

2011 Toyota Camry Hybrid Specs, Prices, Pics and Reviews

The Toyota Camry Hybrid is the forgotten hybrid, and it probably ought to stay that way. Like the regular Camry, the hybrid is a perfectly pleasant midsize sedan equipped similarly to the top, XLE Camry trim level. The problem is its mileage: an EPA-estimated 31/35 mpg city/highway.

Starting MSRP $27,050

A similarly refined hybrid sedan, the Ford Fusion Hybrid, outpaced it in 2009 (as an early 2010 model) with 41/36 mpg, as do new hybrid versions of the Hyundai Sonata and Kia Optima (35/40 mpg), for considerably less money. If high mileage is your main goal, the Toyota Prius delivers 51/48 mpg for thousands less in midsize hatchback form.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,TOYOTA

2011 Lexus CT 200h Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Americans love hybrid hatchbacks, but mostly for the hybrid part; overall, we're still lukewarm on traditional hatchbacks. Lexus added a third ingredient budget luxury to create the CT 200h.

Starting MSRP $29,120–$30,900

With a starting price just over $29,000, it's the least expensive Lexus in nearly two decades, and it shows. The 2011 CT 200h feels at times like a cut-rate Lexus, but its combination of fuel efficiency and handling should win the brand some much-needed younger buyers.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,LEXUS

2012 Chrysler 300 SRT8 Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

If we made a list of unforgettable cars of the previous decade, the first-generation Chrysler 300 SRT8 and Dodge Charger SRT8 would be on it.

They were nutso full-sizers with 425-hp, 6.1-liter Hemis; aggressive looks; and chest-thumping exhausts. Those qualities earned them a pass for their shortcomings—which included occasionally crashy suspensions, plasticky interiors, turret-like outward vision, and a five-speed automatic transmission that could have used an additional ratio (or three).

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,CHRYSLER

2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Brand-New Heavy: Jeep's second-gen Grand Cherokee SRT8 is tanned, rested, and ready to put the hammer down with newfound decorum. Four is the new three, as in $4 and 40 highway miles per gallon.

But come hell or high gas prices, there will always be hot cars, mighty trucks, and a privileged few who don’t sweat $100 fill-ups as long as the passing lane remains open for business.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,JEEP

2011 Audi Q7 TDI Quattro Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Just four months ago, our Audi Q7 TDI had fewer than 16,000 miles on the clock. We’re now at more than 32K, numeric proof of the big brown crossover’s popularity.

The esteem and the miles spring from the Q7’s prowess for long-haul road trips and its aptitude for towing, talents staffers often exploit at the same time.

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Posted in: AUDI,AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR

Spyker C8 Aileron Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Whatever its credentials as a sports car and they seem to be impressive the Spyker C8Aileron is an attention getting device of pretty intense wattage. It even draws stares from the pilots of Ferraris, Lambos, and other exotics.

We know this from an early-morning blast down California’s spectacular Highway 1, south of Carmel, where the Spyker loped confidently at naughty speeds in straight places, and Lamberrari drivers, engaged in the same kind of dawn frolic, acknowledged the C8 with headlight flashes and the occasional wave.

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

2012 BMW M3 CRT Lightweight Sedan Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

We first told you about BMW’s upcoming lightweight M3 sedan when it debuted as a concept car in April, following that up with a series of spy photos in May.

Well, June is nearing its end, and we’d feel just horrible if we missed a monthly installment, so today we’re on to the thrilling conclusion in this three-part series. (At least until the surprise follow-up, when we drive the thing.)

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

2012 Volkswagen Tiguan Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Having accidentally leaked a look at its 2012 Tiguan, Volkswagen is making the face lift official with this batch of photos.

The little ute is scheduled to be physically unveiled in Geneva in March, but European dealers are already accepting pre-orders for the new Tiguan, as the current model has sold out.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,VOLKSWAGEN

2011 Nissan Murano CrossCabriolet Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Renault and Nissan CEO Carlos Ghosn is credited with one of the most quotable statements to come from an auto executive in recent years:

“There is no car company problem that can’t be solved by great product.” Ghosn is also cited as the driving force behind the Murano CrossCabriolet, an oddly shaped, oddly conceived convertible SUV.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,NISSAN

2011 Kia Optima SX Turbo Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

The turbocharged top-spec version of the handsome new Kia Optima, which shares its powertrain lineup and architecture with the10Best-winning Hyundai Sonata.

The SX comes pretty well stocked, including the direct-injected 2.0-liter turbo four, 18-inch wheels with black-painted pockets, HID headlamps, LED taillights, dual-zone auto climate control, Bluetooth, an LCD in the instrument panel, leather upholstery, and racy body bits.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,KIA,SPORTS CAR

2011 Kia Sportage SX Turbo AWD Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

That Kia continues to assemble ever-better-performing, more-competitive, more-attractive products should be news to no one. That a small crossover is the Korean brand’s quickest vehicle might take you by surprise.

It did us. But it’s true: Since the 1994 Sephia landed stateside, no Kia has hit 60 mph in fewer ticks of the second hand than this new turbocharged Sportage.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,KIA,SPORTS CAR

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

The rocks and desert surrounding Moab, Utah, have seen a lot of things. Dinosaurs hatching, dying, and turning into tar.

Mormons fleeing persecution, flourishing, and inspiring a hit HBO show. And Jeeps. Lots and lots and lots of Jeeps. But this is Moab’s first look at the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Ours, too, at least from behind the wheel.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,JEEP

Chevrolet Equinox Specs, Pics, Prices and Reviews

Say what you will about legacy costs, screwball UAW agreements, and brand hyperproliferation, General Motors has undeniably talented designers and engineers.

These folks have in recent years created stellar products, such as the current Cadillac CTS, the new Chevrolet Malibu, and a quartet of well-executed full-size crossovers.

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Posted in: AUTOMOTIVE INFO,CAR,CHEVROLET