Back for 2012 in second-gen form, the Civic Hybrid is in every way superior to its predecessor with improved fuel economy, better technology and some cool interior gadgets. But when it comes to all-out fuel economy, the Prius has no equal.
One of three finalists for the 2011 World Car of the Year, the new BMW 5 Series has something for almost everyone.
Combing the new Sonata’s fuel economy, power, style and drive quality with a fully-loaded package, there’s little reason to look elsewhere when considering a new family sedan.
One of the newer rivals in the compact segment, the Forte has been improved with the addition of a 6-speed transmission. Unfortunately it’s still somewhat lethargic and nothing has been done to improve the drab interior.
With plenty of interior space, luxury, power, craftsmanship and a solid road presence, the MKS combines what’s good about the modern Lincoln with the brand’s classic expertise in making big luxury cars.
After duking it out at the top of the ‘3 Series’ segment for years, Infiniti has finally released a more budget-conscious version of its G sedan. Despite its lower price and smaller engine, there’s little lacking in this affordable sports sedan.
For a car designed to be used all over the world, the Chevy Cruze is surprisingly good at meeting key attributes demanded of a U.S. compact. But is it the best?
Mazda’s mid-size sedan lacks much of the brand’s sporty characteristics and the standard 4-cylinder engine does little to help.
Adding to the competency of the new Regal is a Turbo model with plenty more right-foot fun, plus improved driving dynamics thanks to the a new feature that lets you adjust the shock settings, throttle response, shift times and steering sensitivity.
Volvo has finally built a genuine competitor to its German rivals and has even managed to keep the brand’s distinct identity intact. The only issue will be attracting buyers to this more engaging Volvo considering the automaker’s decades-old reputation for building solid and safe, and therefore dull, automobiles.
With big power, razor sharp handling, great brakes and aggressive styling, the 2011 Lexus IS-F is everything a sports sedan should be.
All new for 2011, the Jetta is more functional but less inspiring. The TDI trim is, however, a small sign that Volkswagen hasn’t forgotten about its past or a core group of loyal buyers.
With the 2011 E350 BlueTec, Mercedes-Benz carries on a long tradition of being the only luxury automaker in North America to offer a fuel-efficient diesel in this segment.
It may look like a toned-down refresh, but the 2011 300 is all new and feels it, designed to appeal to a wider customer base with added luxury, technology and a front grille that won’t scare away more bashful buyers.
Toyota won’t win any street-cred with enthusiasts for building cars like the Avalon, but it’s perfectly targeted to appeal to a wide range in its target demographic.
Finally a mid-size Dodge worth considering, but is a good car enough to bring in customers after a legacy of less-than-mediocre machines?
The 2011 Jetta is the first model from Volkswagen designed specifically for the U.S. market. Larger and cheaper than in the past it would seem to have solved the car’s two biggest issues. There are, however, more than just a few down sides.
The Evo’s incredible performance is matched only by a long list of attributes that make it hard to live with on a daily basis.
Lacking somewhat in comparison to rivals in the quasi-luxury segment, the Buick Regal might be better positioned as a more appealing alternative to top-trim mid-size sedans.
Hyundai continues its product onslaught, bringing to market an all-new Elantra that echoes its big brother Sonata, that is sure to bring the Korean compact from relative obscurity to become one of the most popular cars in its class.
It’s been a long time since Suzuki build a car that was not only worth talking about, but worth remembering. The Kizashi is that car.
There’s only one thing wrong with the 2011 Continental GT, and that’s that Bentley so seamlessly meshes performance with luxury that the car has earned a reputation as a luxury sports coupe, rather than the true exotic is really is.
Thanks to turbocharging, BMW can now offer a 6-cylinder again in the 7 Series. Now owners can save on gas and at the dealer lot while still being able to enjoy everything else the 7 offers.