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2010 Kia Sportage Review
August 24, 2010 EST | Kia , SUV's , Sports Cars | Comments (0)
Though outclassed in many ways by more refined competitors, the 2010 Kia Sportage remains a solid choice for buyers in search of an affordable compact crossover.
Pros
Practical interior, good value compared to competition, long powertrain warranty.
Cons
Both engines lack oomph, disappointing fuel economy.
What's New for 2010
Other than a couple of minor feature revisions, the 2010 Kia Sportage is unchanged. [More...]
2011 Kia Sportage Vehicle Preview
August 24, 2010 EST | Kia , SUV's , Sports Cars | Comments (0)
The redesigned 2011 Kia Sportage will sport aggressive styling and more features. It should be a solid choice for an affordable compact crossover.
What's New for 2011
The 2011 Kia Sportage has been redesigned for 2011 [More...]
2010 Audi S5 Review
August 20, 2010 EST | Audi , Convertibles , Coupes | Comments (0)
The 2010 Audi S5's repertoire expands thanks to the new soft-top S5 Cabriolet and its exclusive supercharged V6, while the classy V8 continues to power the coupe. If you want a luxury performance coupe or convertible, the S5 belongs on your short list.
Pros
Sensuous styling, coupe's stellar V8, sharp handling, upscale interior, available convertible body style.
Cons
Artificial steering feel, convertible is pricey and lacks a retractable hardtop and the coupe's V8.
What's New for 2010
The 2010 Audi S5 gets a cabriolet (soft-top convertible) variant that's available only with a new supercharged V6, whereas the coupe keeps the previous V8. Also, the S5 receives Audi's standardized trim level structure, and navigation-equipped S5s get the third-generation MMI system with a revised controller and real-time traffic. [More...]
2010 Acura RDX Review
August 12, 2010 EST | Acura , SUV's | Comments (0)
A Japanese answer to BMW's athletic X3, the 2010 Acura RDX offers plenty of sport and style along with an adequate dose of utility.
Pros
Sporty handling, stylish interior, nicely equipped, excellent crash test scores.
Cons
Lackluster fuel economy, firm ride.
What's New for 2010
The 2010 Acura RDX receives a base front-wheel-drive version as well as revised exterior styling, automatic headlights, a tweaked braking system, a back-up camera, Bluetooth streaming audio compatibility, a USB jack and ambient footwell lighting. [More...]
2010 Acura ZDX Review
August 11, 2010 EST | Acura , Sedans | Comments (0)
Pros
Luxurious interior, high-tech features.
Cons
Cramped backseat, compromised cargo capacity, unimpressive power from V6.
What's New for 2010
The 2010 Acura ZDX is a new style-driven midsize luxury crossover. [More...]
2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 Review
August 11, 2010 EST | BMW , Hybrid , Sedans | Comments (0)
The 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 suffers from a high price tag and little to show for its hybrid powertrain. Add in the regular X6's drawbacks of limited utility and rear seat space and you've got a BMW we can't recommend.
Pros
Capable handling, comfortable and roomy front seats, quick acceleration.
Cons
Negligible fuel economy gains, hefty price, cramped rear seats, limited cargo space, poor rearward visibility, heavy curb weight.
What's New for 2010
The 2010 BMW ActiveHybrid X6 is an all-new hybrid model. [More...]
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...]
