2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid /Review

2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid will settle the dilemma between owning a large, capable SUV and saving money on gas and protecting the environment.  That’s because an efficient 332-horsepower, 6.0-liter V-8 is paired to GM’s two-mode hybrid system that features dual electric motors, a continuously variable transmission, and a nickel-metal hydride battery pack.  Like most hybrids, the 2011 Escalade Hybrid’s system recharges the battery pack through regenerative braking.  Fuel estimates check in at 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway.  For those concerned about the environmental impact of the Escalade Hybrid, just know that it emits between three and four fewer metric tons of carbon dioxide than the gas-only Escalades.  Competition includes the GMC Yukon Hybrid and the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid.

The Escalade Hybrid is available in four-wheel drive for enhanced traction and handling, and can tow up to 5,800 pounds (2WD model).  The Escalade Hybrid is bathed in hybrid badges, which instantly sets its exterior apart from other Escalades.  A power liftgate, 22-inch chrome wheels, power sunroof, and xenon headlights are standard, while LED headlights and power-retractable running boards are optional.

The 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid can seat up to eight occupants in three rows.  Cargo volume is also cavernous with 108.9 cubic feet of space to fit all of your luggage or equipment.  Leather interior, power, heated, and cooled front seats, heated second-row seats, tri-zone climate control, heated and cooled cup holders, a navigation system, Bluetooth® connectivity and a USB/iPod port are just some of the impressive standard features.  Monitor the Escalade’s hybrid activity and efficiency through informative graphics displayed on the navigation screen and instrument cluster.

As for safety, the 2011 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid features three-row side curtain airbags, driver and passenger airbags, antilock brakes, an electronic stability system with traction control, rearview camera, and a blind spot warning system as standard equipment.  A suite of OnStar safety technologies and communications also comes standard and notify the authorities in the event of an accident.  Standard maintenance such as scheduled oil changes, replacement of engine and cabin air filters, tire rotations and more are covered for four years or 50,000 miles.

--------------------------------------------
PricingMSRP: $74,135 to $88,435
Invoice Price: $69,316 to $82,687
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG)
20 City /23 Highway
--------------------------------------------

»»  read more

2011 Ferrari 599 GTO /Review

Ferrari’s 599 GTO

Ferrari has finally taken the wraps of its high-performance 599 GTO. Billed as Ferrari’s fastest ever road car topping even the mighty Ferrari Enzo — the production version of the 599 GTO is largely based on the 599XX concept.

Using the already potent 599 GTB HGTE as a jumping point, the 599 GTO kicks it up a notch with a number of performance improvements. The 599 GTO cranks out 670 horsepower, up from the standard car’s 612 horsepower. The 599 GTO’s V12 engine is capable of revving to 9,000 rpm. Power is routed through an F1-style six-speed gearbox.

Thanks to that added power, the 599 GTO makes the sprint from 0-62 in just 3.35 seconds, continuing to a top speed of 208mph.

The 599's chassis has been thoroughly reworked for the GTO treatment, and Ferrari says the improvements completely eliminated any understeer.

Of course, with it being well known that weight is the number one enemy of performance, Ferrari also took several actions to shave off unnecessary weight. The areas involved include the bodywork and greenhouse (with thinner gauge aluminum and thinner glass), the brakes, transmission and exhaust system.

The result is a dry weight of 1,495 kg and a weight-to-power ratio of just 2.23 kg/hp, a very significant figure that underlines the GTO's performance potential.

The 599 GTO features Ferrari’s Magnetorheological Supension Control system, as well as carbon ceramic disc brakes measuring 15.7x1.5 inches in the front, and 14.2x1.5 inches in the rear.

The 599 GTO gets its power to the ground thanks to high-performance Michelin tires, size 285/30/20 up front and 315/35/20 in the rear.

The car-driver interface was designed to maximize car and driver performance with a layout of the main commands that ensures absolute efficiency and minimum distraction. The Racing manettino also puts the emphasis firmly on sporty, track-specific driving settings by offering the driver full choice with regard to the electronic control parameters.

The ICE position on the 599 GTB Fiorano has been replaced by CT-Off (traction control off). The GTO is also fitted with bespoke, longer carbon-fibre F1 paddles for easier use in high-speed driving. In addition the GTO also features the Virtual Race Engineer, a system that monitors the status of the car and gives the driver immediate visibility of vehicle performance.

Ferrari will produce just 599 examples of the 599 GTO, with a price tag expected to fit that exclusivity with reports suggesting the 599 GTO will retail from $426,000.

___________________________________

Basic Specs

Base Price     TBA
Drivetrain     Rear Wheel Drive
Curb Weight (lbs)     3538
City (MPG)     TBD
Hwy (MPG)     TBD
Horsepower     670@8250
Torque (lb-ft)     457@6500
Wheelbase     108.3
Length (in.)     185.4
Width (in.)     77.2
Height (in.)     52.2

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

WATCH VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

2011 Acura MDX/Review

2011 Acura MDX

Pricing  MSRP :$42,930 to $52,555/Invoice Price :$39,411 to $48,139
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): City:16 /Highway: 21

The seven-passenger 2011 Acura MDX is equipped with a 300-horsepower, 3.7-liter V-6, which is mated to a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode.  With Acura’s standard Super Handling All-Wheel-Drive, the 2011 Acura MDX can tow up to 5,000 pounds, which is impressive for a midsize SUV.  Fuel economy ratings of 16 mpg in the city and 21 mpg on the highway are decent and stack up against competing luxury SUVs such as the BMW X5 and Lexus RX 350.

2011 Acura MDX front and back view

Last year, the Acura MDX received changes to the grille, gauges, steering wheel, taillights and tailpipes, and added the Advance Package.  Auto-leveling xenon headlights, power tailgate and 18-inch alloy wheels come standard, while 19-inch alloy wheels are optional.

Inside, the luxurious 2011 Acura MDX is adorned in leather and features eight-way power heated/cooled front seats and three-zone automatic climate control.  With six different cargo configurations, the spacious 2011 Acura MDX offers an above-average total cargo volume of 83.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.  Upgraded technologies include an optional rear DVD entertainment system, heated second-row seats, voice-recognition navigation system with real-time traffic updates, and a sport-styled steering wheel.  Other options include a sunroof, 10-speaker surround sound system, and USB/iPod integration.

2011 Acura MDX side views

Acura’s “Safety Through Innovation” initiative has helped the MDX earn top ratings in government crash tests with such standard active and passive safety technologies as dual-stage front airbags, side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor for all three rows of seats, vehicle stability assist with all-disc antilock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, and an electronic stability system with traction control.  Options include a blind-spot warning system and adaptive cruise control with a collision mitigation feature, which helps reduce the chances of a collision by alerting you to potential collision situations and automatically activates the brakes if the system determines a collision is unavoidable.

 2011 acura MDX interiors

»»  read more

Subaru's BRZ Concept sports car finally breaks cover

It feels like we've been waiting for Subaru's BRZ concept forever. 

The BRZ is a joint development effort between Toyota and Subaru, using a 2.0 litre version of Subaru's signature horizontally-opposed engine with Toyota's direct injection system.

Subaru BRZ

Toyota will sell the car as the FT-86 which it showed as a concept two years ago at the Tokyo Motor Show and has since shown with revised styling. The near identical BRZ concept will be seen for the first time at the Los Angeles Auto Show two weeks from now and can be expected in showrooms in the United States spring of 2012.

It has been a long time coming, and why it has taken so long to materialize is uncertain. Subaru showed the skeleton and mechanicals of the BRZ at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, but the pic you're looking at is the only released image of the full car.

The BRZ employs a totally new 2.0-litre Boxer engine exclusively designed for the new sports car using direct injection and port injection technology from Toyota - dubbed the D-4S.

The front-engine, rear-wheel drive layout is Subaru's first since its very first car, the Subaru 1500 built in 1954. The low and flat engine is mounted low in the car to assist with lowering the center of gravity, and by adding a lightweight body, Subaru is hoping to deliver what it is calling "Pure Handling Delight." The Subaru BRZ Concept - STI will be on show at the Los Angeles Auto Show from November 18 through 27.

The reason this car has taken so long to get to market is that Toyota was not happy with the engine in its original form and spent money and time re-engineering it to be more efficient. Over that time, the price and weight and intended target audience has also changed.

Unfortunately, Subaru will not sell their version in all markets that already sell Subaru's because it does not fit with their all-wheel-drive branding in some markets.

Source: ENGADGET

»»  read more

2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class/Review

Pricing : $48,850 to $87,600 MSRP
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 13 - 22 City/20 - 33 Highway

The 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class series offers uncompromising luxury and performance, packaged with the latest in safety features.  It returns for 2011 with two sparkling new additions: a Cabriolet version which adds a soft top, and a wagon.  The E-Class competes with the BMW 5 series, Audi A6, and Infiniti M
Styling remains much the same from the full E-Class redesign in 2010.  E350 trims come powered by a 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6, while the E550 offers a step up in power to a 382-horsepower, 5.5-liter V-8.  There is also an E63 AMG-version, which comes with an astonishing 518-horsepower, 6.3-liter V-8. 

New for 2011, Mercedes is offering the diesel E350 BlueTEC Sedan across all 50 states, powered by an ultra-efficient, 210-horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 diesel engine.  All variations of the E-Class come mated to Mercedes’ seven-speed automatic transmission, and are available in rear-wheel or all-wheel drive (4matic), except for the wagon which is only available in all-wheel drive.  E-Class fuel economy ranges from 15-17 mpg in the city and 22-25 mpg on the highway.  The diesel engine will allow you to travel over 600 miles on a single tank.

Each variation of the 2011 E-Class comes in your choice of luxury trim, which comes on 17-inch wheels, or the more aggressive sport trim riding on 18-inch wheels with a tighter suspension. Standard luxury features abound across the E-Class line including a sunroof, dual-zone climate control, double-stitched leather seats, 14-way power front seats, COMAND system with LCD screen, and an in-dash 6-disc CD changer.  Available options include a rear-seat entertainment system, massaging front seats, rear spoiler, iPod/MP3 connectivity, and navigation system.

The 2011 E-Class also boasts a host of advanced safety features, such as Attention Assist which detects fatigue and drowsiness and alerts the driver with audio and visual cues.  All trims come standard with Mercedes’ PRE-SAFE® system which detects impending accidents/collisions, pre-tensions the seatbelts and shifts the passenger seat to a safer position before impact.  Also standard are a nine-airbag system, traction control, antilock brakes, and automatic emergency braking.  Optional safety features are available, like Night View Assist PLUS which detects objects at night and displays them on the video screen, and adaptive headlights. All of these features combine to make the 2011 E-Class an IIHS Top Safety Pick.

The 2011 Mercedes Benz E-Class is a breathtaking car.  With impeccable exterior and interior styling, and a long list of advanced features and safety equipment, it zooms past the competition and establishes itself as the car to beat in the mid-size luxury segment.
VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

2011 Nissan Xterra/Review

Pricing : $24,260 to $29,670 MSRP
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 15 - 16 City:/20 - 22 Highway

The biggest change to last year’s Xterra is the addition of the new PRO-4X off-road model (which replaces the Off-Road model).  The PRO-4X is a beast and comes with standard four-wheel drive and either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission.  The PRO-4X rides on 16-inch alloy wheels with off-road tires.  Other features include Bilstein gas-filled shocks, roof-mounted off-road lights, locking rear differential, transfer case, skid plates, and hill descent/start assist (automatic transmission only).
Powering the 2011 Nissan Xterra is a 261-horsepower, 4.0-liter DOHC V-6 engine, mated to either a six-speed manual or five-speed automatic transmission and your choice of two-wheel or part-time four-wheel drive.  The Xterra receives 15-16 mpg in the city and 20-21 mpg on the highway and competes with Jeep Wrangler Unlimited and Toyota FJ Cruiser for off-road supremacy.

With seating for up to five passengers, the 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with a roof rack and a rear bumper design with side steps for easy access.  A long wheelbase (106.3 inches) provides a smooth ride and increased interior cargo room (66 cubic feet with rear seats folded).  An adjustable channel system located in the cargo floor is available for securing bike racks and other accessories.
With the SE trim out of the picture, the X and S trim levels have been left to pick up the slack.  That slack includes standard power windows and locks, keyless entry, cruise control, three 12-volt power outlets, four cup holders, luggage side nets, and removable seat cushions for easy cleaning.  An in-cabin micro filter, front map lights, easy clean cargo area, and 8-way manual driver’s seat with adjustable lumbar support are optional.

The 2011 Nissan Xterra is equipped with four-wheel vented disc brakes and an anti-lock braking system with electronic brake force distribution.  Other standard safety features include an advanced airbag system featuring dual-stage supplemental front airbags with seat belt and occupant classification sensors, driver and front passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags, and roof-mounted curtain side-impact supplemental air bags with rollover sensor.
If you love mountain biking, climbing, hiking, camping or just tearing it up in the middle of nowhere, then the off-road specialist 2011 Nissan Xterra is for you.
 WATCH VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

2011 Volvo XC90/Review

Pricing : $38,400 to $48,000 MSRP/$36,096 to $45,120 Invoice Price
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG):14 - 16 City/21 - 22

Available in three trims: 3.2, 3.2 R-Design and V8, the 2011 XC90 rest atop the XC Series totem pole with two very capable engines.  A 240-horsepower, 3.2-liter inline-six cranks out 236 pounds-feet of torque, while a low-emissions version, which is sold in select states, creates 230 horsepower and 221 pounds-feet of torque.  Need more power?  Opt for the 311-horsepower, 4.4-liter V-8 with 325 pounds-feet of torque.  All engines are paired to a six-speed automatic transmission with clutchless-manual mode.  The six-cylinder engines feature optional all-wheel drive, while it is standard in the V-8 trim.  For tight handling and a quick response, the R-Design trim is fitted with a sport-tuned suspension with thicker front/rear stabilizer bars and firmer springs and struts.

Fuel economy is decent with an EPA-estimated 14-16 mpg in the city and 21-22 mpg on the highway.  Other entries in the midsize luxury crossover segment include the BMW X5, Cadillac SRX, and Acura MDX.  Power-operated and heated mirrors with integrated turn signals, 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, and a power moonroof are all standard features.  Bi-xenon headlight with swiveling lenses, headlight washers, 19- or 20-inch alloy wheels, twin dual exhaust pipes, and rear skid plates are optional.

Seat up to seven occupants with a standard third-row seat inside each 2011 Volvo XC90 crossover.  If you are looking for suitable seating for your young ones, a built-in booster seat in the second row slides forward up to 12 inches so you can keep them within your reach at all times.  Inside you’ll also find up to 85.1 cubic feet of cargo space when all seats are folded and 11.1 cubic feet behind the third row.  A USB and iPod interface, high performance audio system, Bluetooth® connectivity and automatic dual-zone climate control come standard, while premium leather seating, massaging and ventilated front seats, aluminum or real wood trim, heated front seats, dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, navigation system with real-time traffic, and a 650-watt, 12 speaker audio system are available/optional.

Safety comes standard on the 2011 Volvo XC90.  The SUV features Roll Stability Control that tries to correct a rollover once it has started.  Front, front-seat side-impact, and side curtain airbags, antilock brakes with brake assist, park assist, a whiplash protection system, and an electronic stability system with traction control come standard.  A blind spot warning system and rain-sensing wipers are optional for additional safety.
VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

Nissan Pathfinder/Review

Price: $30,890
MPG / LPG: 14 city; 20 highway

Though the sun is shining and our eyes are wide open, we may as well be driving blind. It’s our first time in the Nissan Pathfinder, and the only view out the front windscreen is sky -- bright, beautiful, clear blue sky and not one pebble of ground in sight. We’re climbing what may best be described as a steep, rocky set of stairs, only the stairs are boulders, and if one should come loose, it would crush us like a bug.
Not being able to see where we’re going is terrifying enough, but the terrain, what we can feel of it anyway, is about as forgiving as a golf club-wielding Elin Nordegren. Our forward progress is slow, and for each foot we move forward, we’re rewarded with multiple loud, frame-rattling crashes. Fillings start to work their way out of our teeth and we’re certain that, not only are we about to wreck a brand-new Nissan Pathfinder, we’re about to be stranded in the middle of a boulder field.

But Nissan had the confidence to send us out here. Well, actually, Nissan had confidence in its SUV. This

off-road excursion was put together by Nissan to show the robustness of the Pathfinder’s F-Alpha truck platform. With the F-Alpha, Nissan tucks all the mechanical bits up above the frame rails so that the truck can withstand abuses such as those we threw at it. As we made it through our off-road escapade unscathed, the F-Alpha did its job well.
But let’s be honest: few people will drive a Nissan Pathfinder over anything more extreme than a speed bump, so we decided to see how the somewhat-large SUV handles paved roads. With a 400-plus-mile round-trip from Los Angeles to San Luis Obispo planned for the Nissan, we were sure to see if the SUV handled the road as well as it did a field of boulders.

Performance
Though a V8 is available for the Pathfinder, our tester was equipped with the 4.0-liter V6. On paper, it seems like the six-cylinder’s 266 horsepower isn’t enough to move the 3-ton SUV, but in real life, the 266 ponies prove to be more than adequate. This engine sounds a bit coarse at times, but it does deliver acceleration that is brisk for a truck. This Pathfinder won’t hang with something like a BMW X6 (though we tried…), but it can capably do everyday things, such as merge onto highways and pass slower traffic without any drama.
Nissan’s Pathfinder handles pretty well for a truck, too. It delivers a slightly stiff ride, which is to be expected from a truck-based SUV, but things never become uncomfortable. This 2.3-ton SUV proved to be quite capable on twistier mountain roads, staying flat and tracking well through the corners. Steering feedback is a bit heavy, which we happen to like, and communicative.

Design
We’re fans of the Nissan Pathfinder’s blocky, hard-edged shape. It’s utilitarian and in no way does the SUV even try to be trendy, stylish or pretty. We love it, and we can’t help but feel a bit more manly just being in the thing. Our specific Nissan Pathfinder tester was the SE, a more bare-bones version of the SUV, further cementing that utilitarian feel.

After driving feature-laden vehicles, our Pathfinder’s cloth seats and navigation-free center console could almost seem quaint. But even without frills like a digital map or ass warmers, the Pathfinder is a comfortable vehicle to spend time in, and not once did it make our 400-mile journey a tiring one. The seats are soft, the cabin spacious, the touch points are actually nice to touch and the whole thing seems to be screwed together well. The Nissan Pathfinder SE is a truck that is happy to be a truck, and for that we can’t help but like it.

VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

2011 Buick Lucerne/Review

Pricing : $29,730 to $44,460 MSRP/ $28,541 to $42,682 Invoice Price
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG):15 - 17 City/23 - 27 Highway

Powerful engines are a key to the value of the 2011 Buick Lucerne.  A 227-horsepower, 3.9-liter V-6 comes standard, and an available 292-horsepower, 4.6-liter V-8 adds some serious punch. Both engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, and these pairings yield 15-17 mpg in the city and 22-26 mpg on the highway.  The V-6 offers power comparable to V-8 offerings such as the Mercury Grand Marquis, but with better fuel economy; power is on par with the Acura TL, and superior to the Toyota Avalon.

If there is one thing a Buick specializes in, it is spaciousness, and the 2011 Lucerne is king with more rear legroom, a bigger trunk, and generally better interior metrics than most of the competition.  The affordable CS model blends space with simulated wood trim, power driver’s seat, OnStar satellite communications, XM Satellite Radio and CD player.  Choose the CXL model instead and you get leather/heated front seats, dual zone climate control, and an optional glass sunroof, Harmon/Kardon stereo and parking sensors.

The CXL Special Edition enhances seating comfort with leather and suede skins.  The top-of-the-line Lucerne Super offers premium leather seating, a heated wood-and-leather steering wheel and the Magnetic Ride Control suspension, which quickly responds to changing road conditions for a smooth ride.  On the exterior, the 2011 Lucerne rests atop standard 17-inch wheels with optional 18-inch chrome-finished wheels and dual exhaust tailpipes.

Safety comes standard with the 2011 Buick Lucerne and it all starts with front, side, and two-row head airbags, along with antilock brakes and traction control.  Stability control is now standard across all trims.  A blind-zone warning system uses a visual display in either mirror to warn of a vehicle in your blind spot, while a lane departure warning system alerts the driver that they may be leaving their lane unintentionally.  Parking assist and remote start are also available.
Ride in spacious comfort with the premium amenities and enhanced safety features of the 2011 Buick Lucerne.

»»  read more

2011 Chrysler 300C /Review

Pricing : $38,170 to $40,320 MSRP/$36,342 to $38,319 Invoice Price
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 15 - 16 City/23 - 25 Highway:

Overview

The 2011 Chrysler 300C is the more powerful version of the 300 full-size sedan and for this year gets the same makeover that its smaller counterpart received with a new style and a new interior.
On the outside, the 2011 300C looks different from last year’s model yet similar all at the same time.  The 300’s trademark angles are still there, but the edges have been softened and the front fascia redesigned to be less boxy and more aerodynamic, which helps the 300C’s gas mileage figures.  

 Also new are LED daytime running lights which add a touch of refinement to the nose of the car.  Visibility was a complaint consumers had about the outgoing 300C, so for this year’s car the windshield has been raked back, the rear windows made larger, and the pillars thinned which improves outward visibility by 15-percent according to Chrysler.

Under the hood, the 300C gets a larger engine than its counterpart: a 363-horsepower, 5.7-liter HEMI V-8 which is mated to a five-speed automatic transmission.  The V-8 represents an increase of 71-horsepower over the V-6 in the standard 300, but where you really feel the larger engine kick in is the additional torque (394 pounds-feet opposed to 260) which helps you put the power down.

Fuel efficiency is aided by the 300C’s aerodynamic changes as well as the HEMI engine’s fuel saving cylinder deactivation technology, which shuts down cylinders when they are not needed.  Ratings check in at 15-16 mpg in the city and 23-25 mpg on the highway depending upon your choice of two-wheel- or all-wheel-drive.
Inside, the 300C’s interior gets a luxurious refresh and is packed with features usually only found on cars a class above. 

The new look is accented by brushed metal highlights that add a sense of refinement to the cabin as well as a new three-dimensional instrument panel that is particularly attractive.  The standard features list is long and includes dual-zone automatic climate control, USB/iPod connectivity, powered, heated, and cooled front seats, and an 8.4-inch LCD screen that houses audio, climate, and navigation controls (navigation is also standard).

Safety is also a standard feature on the 2011 300C, with a full complement of airbags (including a driver’s knee airbag), antilock brakes, traction control, and an electronic stability system coming on every model.  Further safety technologies like adaptive headlights, blind sport warning system, and adaptive cruise control are optional.
The 2011 Chrysler 300C delivers HEMI power with all the trappings of a luxury car for a non-premium price.

WATCH VIDEO REVIEW

»»  read more

2011 Subaru Outback

Pricing:  $23,195 to $31,495 MSRP/$21,848 to $29,484 Invoice Price

EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 18 - 22 City/25 - 29 Highway:

After going through a major redesign last year, the 2011 Subaru Outback SUV-esque wagon returns still featuring impressive fuel economy, ample power, and versatile interior space at a great value.

The 2011 Subaru Outback is available in two models, distinguished by different engine configurations.  The 2.5i is powered by a 170-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder boxer engine that is mated to either the new CVT or a six-speed manual transmission.  Next up is the 3.6R, which sports a 256-horsepower, 3.6-liter six-cylinder under its hood.  All models get Subaru’s all-wheel drive system standard.  The Outback delivers up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway, which is better than most crossovers and wagons.  The 2011 Outback competes with other wagons like the Volkswagen Passat and Volvo XC70 as well as a few compact SUVs like the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tiburon.

The 2011 Subaru Outback features 34.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear-folding seat and 71.3 cubic feet total.  Subaru also extended the Outback’s length where rear passengers can enjoy a gargantuan four-inch increase in rear legroom; there’s more room for comfort here than in a Nissan Rogue or Volvo XC60, or many other competitors.  A standard roof rack has hinged cross-members that tuck into the side rails when not in use, which improves aerodynamics and decreases noise.

To fill all that interior space, Subaru loaded the Outback full of goodies.  The base model features an electronic parking brake with a hill holder feature that keeps the car from rolling back while stopped.  The Premium model boasts a 10-way power driver’s seat with power lumbar adjustment, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and options like a 440-watt Harmon/Kardon® stereo and heated front seats, among others.  The flagship Limited line offers premium perforated leather seats, dual zone climate control, and an optional GPS system with an eight-inch LCD display screen.

The 2011 Subaru Outback features standard antilock brakes, electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, traction control, and stability control, as well as a full complement of airbags.

If you’re looking for an SUV-esque wagon that excels around town and in the great outdoors, the affordable and versatile 2011 Subaru Outback is for you.

»»  read more

2011 Honda Insight /Review

Pricing: $18,200 to $21,490 MSRP/$17,184 to $20,277 Invoice Price
EPA Fuel Economy (MPG): 40 City/43 Highway

If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-mileage answer to the rising fuel prices, then look no further than the efficient and fun 2011 Honda Insight hybrid.

The 2011 Honda Insight competes directly with the Toyota Prius, and the Insight receives an astonishing EPA-estimated 40 mpg in the city and 43 mpg on the highway.  The Insight pairs a 1.3-liter, 98-horsepower 4-cylinder i-VTEC engine with a 10-kilowatt electric motor and nickel metal hydride battery for full, hybrid functionality. The Eco Assist display lets you to control various systems that affect fuel economy such as idle stop duration, air-conditioning, and cruise control, in order to maximize your mileage.  Almost like a video game, the Insight’s speedometer turns from blue to green based on how efficiently you are driving, while the Eco Guide display lets you earn five digital plants with leaves that grow if you drive green enough.

A new trim level, the “Insight” serves as the base model and joins the LX and EX.  Similar in style to Honda’s subcompact Fit, the Insight hybrid has a sharper nose and a wedge-shaped rear that gives it its own unique look.  Projector-beam halogen headlights, LED brake lights, turn-signals in the side mirrors, and alloy wheels are some of the goodies that can be had on the 2011 Honda Insight hybrid.

On the inside, the 2011 Insight seats five occupants in cloth upholstery.  The rear 60/40-split seat folds down to improve cargo space and the Insight comes equipped with several standard features such as air conditioning, automatic climate control, power windows, locks and mirrors, audio MP3 jack for your iPod, and a tilt-telescoping steering wheel.  Steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, a USB input jack for the stereo, Bluetooth® connectivity, cruise control and Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System are optional.

The 2011 Honda Insight is loaded with standard safety features like side-impact airbags for the front seats, side curtain airbags for both rows, antilock brakes, driver and front passenger active head restraints, and an electronic stability control system.
You don’t have to look to the future to know that superior fuel economy is the way to go.  And get where you’re going in the present with the gas-sipping 2011 Honda Insight hybrid hatchback.

»»  read more