Please use our Search Tool on the left to find the items you're looking for
2006 Mercedes-Benz CL-Class reviews
May 03, 2006 EST | Coupes , Luxury Brands , Mercedes-Benz | Comments (0)
One of the finest coupes on the road today, the CL is an artful blend of performance, technology and classic luxury that rarely fails to impress.
Pros
Superbly refined in every respect, dizzying array of high-tech features, classic styling, impressive performance.
Cons
Complex navigation and audio systems, cramped rear seat.
What's New for 2006
The AMG Sport package, with AMG-designed bumpers, side sills and 18-inch alloy wheels, is now standard. The CL600 loses its integrated cell phone but picks up some former options as standard equipment, among these Keyless Go, an electronic trunk closer and a heated steering wheel. [More...]
2006 Mercedes-Benz C55 AMG reviews
May 03, 2006 EST | Luxury Brands , Mercedes-Benz , Sedans | Comments (0)
Prodigious power, predictable handling and a sharp-looking interior make this one of the most satisfying sport sedans on the market.
Pros
Tire-shredding torque available at any speed, crisp and predictable handling, still comfortable despite its sporting intentions.
Cons
No manual transmission available, tight backseat, not as involving a drive as Audi's S4.
What's New for 2006
The high-performance C55 receives no significant changes this year. [More...]
2006 Mazda MAZDA6 review
May 03, 2006 EST | Mazda , Sedans | Comments (0)
Tired of the dull, sensible, vanilla-flavored family car? If you're willing to give up some passenger room, the Mazda 6 promises to add a dash of zing to your daily commute whether you're looking for a sedan, hatchback or wagon.
Pros
More fun to drive than most family cars, slick-shifting manual transmission, smooth power delivery, nicely appointed interior, multiple body styles.
Cons
Tight rear-seat accommodations, engines lack the vigor of the competition's, interior materials aren't always top quality.
What's New for 2006
For 2006, all vehicles in the Mazda 6 lineup have revised front and rear fascias, while sport package-equipped models get a new grille and side sill design. The optional automatic transmission on four-cylinder models is upgraded from a four-speed unit to a five-speed. Additionally, the V6 has been modified to improve exhaust emissions, resulting in 5 less horsepower (now 215). ABS and traction control are now standard on all i models, while all s models now come with an eight-way power driver seat, an alarm system and a standard side and side curtain airbags. [More...]
2006 Mazda MAZDA5 review
May 03, 2006 EST | Mazda , Vans/Minivans | Comments (0)
Mazda may be taking a risk bringing its compact Mazda 5 minivan to the U.S., but if buyers can get honest about their needs for space and power, the 5 has enough of the right stuff to succeed.
Pros
Low price, generous features list, precise steering, stellar fuel economy for a minivan.
Cons
Can seem underpowered when fully loaded with people and gear, extremely cramped third row.
What's New for 2006
The Mazda 5 is a new, affordably priced compact minivan that seats six [More...]
2006 Lotus Exige reviews
April 27, 2006 EST | Coupes , Lotus | Comments (0)
By most measures, the Lotus Exige is a miserable little car. But Lotus didn't build it to be a grocery-getter. As a weekend track-day weapon, the Exige is unsurpassed.
Pros
Ultralightweight chassis, uninhibited steering, racetrack-oriented design, low volume ensures rarity.
Cons
Spartan interior, difficult entry and exit, poor outward visibility, peaky power delivery, ride quality more Formula One than grand touring, limited dealer network.
What's New for 2006
The Lotus Exige is a fixed-roof version of the Lotus Elise; it's being imported into the North American market for the first time in 2006. [More...]
2006 Lotus Elise reviews
April 27, 2006 EST | Convertibles , Lotus | Comments (0)
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.
Pros
Ultralightweight chassis, uninhibited steering, supercar performance without the supercar price, low volume ensures rarity.
Cons
Spartan interior, difficult entry and exit, peaky power delivery, ride quality more Formula One than grand touring, limited dealer network.
What's New for 2006
Changes for 2006 include an available traction control system, an optional limited-slip differential, lightweight forged alloy wheels, a matte black appearance package and an air conditioning-delete option. Daytime running lights are now standard, along with LED taillights with integrated reflectors. The ProBax seat padding from NuBax has been upgraded for increased comfort and last year's aluminum pedal set has been replaced by a lighter (though now steel) pedal set. [More...]
2006 Maybach 57 reviews
April 27, 2006 EST | Luxury Brands , Maybach , Sedans | Comments (0)
Sophisticated and highly customizable, the Maybach 57 is a truly remarkable ultraluxury sedan. Only in conspicuous splendor does it lose out to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Pros
Unbelievably luxurious cabin, smooth ride, handles and accelerates well for a 6,000-pound vehicle.
Cons
Too many controls pulled from Mercedes' parts bin, feels cumbersome in heavy traffic.
What's New for 2006
For 2006, a new Maybach 57 S style debuts. The S has a more powerful engine, larger wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, and special interior and exterior appointments. All 2006 Maybach models come standard with the Parking Assist System, which had previously been an extra-cost option. There's also a newly available Business Package, which can essentially turn a Maybach into an executive office on wheels. [More...]
2006 Maybach 62 reviews
April 27, 2006 EST | Luxury Brands , Maybach , Sedans | Comments (0)
Sophisticated and highly customizable, the Maybach 62 is a truly remarkable ultraluxury sedan. Only in conspicuous splendor does it lose out to the Rolls-Royce Phantom.
Pros
Unbelievably luxurious cabin, smooth ride, handles and accelerates well for a 6,000-pound vehicle.
Cons
Too many controls pulled from Mercedes' parts bin, cumbersome in heavy traffic.
What's New for 2006
All 2006 Maybach models come standard with the Parking Assist System, which had previously been an extra-cost option. There's also a newly available Business Package, which can essentially turn a Maybach into an executive office on wheels. [More...]
2006 Lincoln Town Car reviews
April 09, 2006 EST | Lincoln , Luxury Brands , Sedans | Comments (0)
If you want a big American luxury car for a reasonable price, the Town Car is the only game in town, but similarly priced European and Japanese luxury sedans are better in almost every respect.
Pros
Roomy interior, quiet cabin, huge trunk, good crash test scores, availability of a long-wheelbase model.
Cons
Interior looks ancient compared to European and Japanese sedans in this price range, missing the latest luxury features, poor resale value.
What's New for 2006
Changes for 2006 are limited to new wheel designs. [More...]
2006 Lincoln Navigator reviews
April 09, 2006 EST | Lincoln , SUV's | Comments (0)
A spacious and stylish full-size luxury SUV, but the Escalade is more powerful and the Lexus LX 470 more refined.
Pros
Lots of room for passengers and cargo, handles well for its size, stylish interior, smooth drivetrain, extensive list of luxury features.
Cons
A few low-grade interior materials, can't match the Escalade's power, some confusing controls.
What's New for 2006
Only minor package revisions are in store for the 2006 Lincoln Navigator. [More...]
2006 Lincoln Mark LT reviews
April 09, 2006 EST | Lincoln , Trucks/Pickups | Comments (0)
The Lincoln Mark LT is essentially a dressed-up Ford F-150. It's fine for those who want a truck with a different look. Otherwise, go with the F-150 King Ranch and save some cash.
Pros
Looks upscale, roomy interior, smooth power delivery and ride quality.
Cons
Too similar to a comparably equipped Ford F-150, missing important luxury and safety features, V8 lacks low-end grunt.
What's New for 2006
The Mark LT is a new luxury truck from Lincoln. It's based on the Ford F-150 but adds small, mostly cosmetic, upgrades like a chrome Lincoln grille, rear taillight reflectors and Lincoln badging. [More...]
2006 Lincoln LS reviews
April 09, 2006 EST | Lincoln , Sedans | Comments (0)
A smooth and comfortable entry-level luxury sedan that lacks the refinement and athleticism of its newer competition.
Pros
Confidence-inspiring steering and handling, standard V8 delivers plenty of smooth and quiet power, comfortable and roomy interior, optional THX-certified sound system.
Cons
Lack of a manual transmission keeps it from true sport sedan status, build quality lags behind German and Japanese competitors, not as nimble as other sport sedans in its class.
What's New for 2006
Lincoln has discontinued the V6 engine for 2006 and trimmed the car's remaining styles down to a single V8 Sport model, which includes a chrome grille with body-color surround, round foglamps and body-color rear license plate trim. Updated wheel designs and two new option packages round out the changes for '06. [More...]
2006 Lexus GS 300 reviews
March 29, 2006 EST | Lexus , Luxury Brands , Sedans | Comments (0)
Lexus created the quintessential Lexus sport sedan in the GS 300 -- quick, athletic, beautifully built and always refined.
Pros
Silky-smooth engine, rich interior, commendable blend of luxury and handling, optional all-wheel-drive.
Cons
Grabby brakes, overly aggressive stability control system.
What's New for 2006
An all-new GS 300 debuts for 2006. [More...]
2006 Lexus ES 330 review
March 29, 2006 EST | Lexus , Luxury Brands , Sedans | Comments (0)
A supple ride and a gorgeous interior make this one entry-level luxury sedan that you'll never want to upgrade from.
Pros
Comprehensive array of luxury and convenience features, superb ride quality, silent cabin, advanced safety technology, excellent reputation for reliability.
Cons
Bland driving characteristics, many of the most desirable options are expensive, no split-folding rear seat.
What's New for 2006
Other than new availability of satellite radio, there are no changes to the Lexus ES 330. Stated horsepower for the car's V6 engine is slightly lower than last year, however, due to Lexus' adoption of new SAE engine testing procedures. [More...]
2006 Land Rover Range Rover Sport review
March 28, 2006 EST | Land Rover , SUV's | Comments (0)
It's still not the sportiest SUV in its price range, but if you want Land Rover capability and style packed into a slightly less boxy package, the Range Rover Sport is the perfect setup.
Pros
Solid road manners, off-road ability worthy of the Land Rover name, usable interior space, powerful V8 engines.
Cons
Standard model still not very sporty, less interior room than the standard Range Rover.
What's New for 2006
Land Rover takes a jab at performance SUVs from BMW and Porsche with its all-new Range Rover Sport. [More...]
2006 Kia Sportage reviews
March 21, 2006 EST | Kia , SUV's | Comments (0)
Packing an available V6, tons of standard safety equipment and a comfortable cabin all at a bargain-basement price, the Sportage is a value leader among small SUVs. Buyers with more flexible budgets may want to check out the Kia's stronger-engined competitors, however.
Pros
Impressive fit and finish, stylish and functional interior, hard-to-beat warranty, standard ABS, side airbags and stability control.
Cons
Down on power and drivetrain refinement versus its competitors.
What's New for 2006
The Sportage EX now features a standard tire-pressure monitor, while all models receive a cabin air filtration system. [More...]
2006 Kia Spectra reviews
March 21, 2006 EST | Kia , Sedans , Wagons | Comments (0)
With its lengthy equipment list, high-quality interior and better-than-average performance, the Spectra sedan and hatchback are an excellent low-cost alternative to vehicles like the Honda Civic and Toyota Matrix.
Pros
Low price, large backseat, comfortable ride, lots of storage and cupholders, standard side curtain airbags, excellent warranty.
Cons
Engine is weak and buzzy at higher rpm, soft handling on EX model.
What's New for 2006
The base LX sedan has been dropped, and the EX no longer features foglamps or rear disc brakes. On the plus side, all models now come with floor mats and a cabin air filter, while the SX and Spectra5 gain standard cruise control. The optional four-speed automatic transmission has been redesigned this year for greater durability and smoothness (although models with SULEV emissions still use last year's unit). [More...]
2006 Kia Sorento reviews
March 21, 2006 EST | Kia , SUV's | Comments (0)
Good-looking, comfortable, rugged and well equipped, the Sorento remains a solid buy among small and midsize SUVs, especially if you're looking for one with true off-road capability.
Pros
Great value, long list of standard features, high-quality interior materials, solid construction, true off-road capability, lengthy warranty coverage.
Cons
Mediocre fuel economy, harsh ride over sharp bumps.
What's New for 2006
For 2006, alloy wheels are now standard on all models. [More...]
2006 Kia Optima reviews
March 21, 2006 EST | Kia , Sedans | Comments (0)
The Optima is a decent choice if you need a family sedan for well under $20,000, but the newer Hyundai Sonata offers better performance and a roomier interior.
Pros
Low price, pleasant highway ride, refined V6, lots of storage space, excellent warranty.
Cons
Feeble bottom-end acceleration with either engine, tepid handling, some cheap interior bits, tight rear legroom, ABS isn't available on four-cylinder models.
What's New for 2006
With a redesign coming in for the 2007 model year, the Optima stands pat for 2006. [More...]
2006 Kia Amanti reviews
March 21, 2006 EST | Kia , Sedans | Comments (0)
It's not the fastest or the most stylish car on the block, but Kia's Amanti is a solid alternative for shoppers who want a large sedan that's safe, well equipped and reasonably priced.
Pros
Class-leading amenities, spacious interior, long warranty, good value for the money.
Cons
Weak V6, doesn't register very high on the prestige meter.
What's New for 2006
New standard features this year include heated leather seats, a sunroof and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. [More...]
2006 Jaguar XJ-Series reviews
March 10, 2006 EST | Jaguar , Luxury Brands , Sedans | Comments (0)
An all-aluminum body and high-tech air suspension combined with classic Jaguar styling give the XJ a fighting chance against its German rivals.
Pros
Supple ride quality, powerful V8 engines, roomy interior, above-average fuel economy, more athletic than you might think.
Cons
Fussy interior controls, clumsy transmission shifter, CD changer is still in the trunk.
What's New for 2006
The Jaguar XJ receives a few refinements for 2006. Both V8 engines see modest increases in output, and the braking system has been revised for a better feel. New features include chrome-mesh grille inserts, laminated side-window glass for reduced road noise, satellite radio, Bluetooth wireless connectivity and an upgraded tire-pressure monitoring system. For 2006, there's also the Super V8 Portfolio, a new top-of-the-line, limited-edition trim level. [More...]
2006 Jaguar S-Type R reviews
March 10, 2006 EST | Jaguar , Luxury Brands , Sedans | Comments (0)
Traditional English styling, combined with performance typically reserved for German rivals, gives the S-Type R unique appeal in a segment full of worthy competitors.
Pros
Endless torque from supercharged V8, surefooted handling, understated styling enhancements over the regular S-Type, luxurious interior, competitive price.
Cons
A few cheap interior bits, small rear seat, no manual transmission available.
What's New for 2006
For 2006, the Jaguar S-Type R gets a new chrome-mesh grille insert, an improved braking system and optional satellite radio and Bluetooth connectivity. [More...]
2006 Isuzu i-Series reviews
March 10, 2006 EST | Isuzu , Trucks/Pickups | Comments (0)
The Isuzu i-Series is a decent truck but it's outclassed by the latest offerings from Dodge, Nissan and Toyota in the important areas of power, interior room and overall fit and finish.
Pros
Handles well on- and off-road, simple controls, side curtain airbags available on both body styles, generous powertrain warranty.
Cons
Not much low-end torque, no six- or eight-cylinder engine option, low tow ratings, subpar build and materials quality, limited availability of customizing options.
What's New for 2006
After a five-year hiatus, a compact pickup returns to the Isuzu lineup. Called the i-Series, the truck comes as either an extended-cab or crew-cab body style. Mechanically, it's very similar to the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon compact pickups. [More...]
