Lexus has come a long way from just being a luxury brand name for Toyota Motors Inc. Nowadays it also boasts its own innovations and leaps in technology. A good example of this is the 2011 Lexus GS Hybrid. This will give you a glimpse on the engine performance and mileage of the GS Hybrid, exterior design, interior material, design and features, safety features & reliability reports, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the Lexus GS Hybrid. This also provides the consumer with alternative makes and models that compare to the GS Hybrids performance and/or price.

The Lexus GS Hybrid is classified under the Luxury Large Cars. Based on this classification the GS hybrid is ranked 5 out of 10. This is based on nearly sixty published works of reviewers, test drive data and model specification.

Specifications

Performance

The Lexus GS Hybrid is available in only one trim. Four doors, rear wheel drive automatic that sports a hybrid gas/electric V6 3.5L engine. What makes the GS Hybrid unique is the fact that it successfully blends fuel economy to a monster V6 engine to improve fuel economy while maintaining power and acceleration comparable to most V6’s. Consumption is 22 miles per liter on the city and 25 miles per liter on the highway.

Exterior

The Lexus GS Hybrid scores an 8.4 out of 10 in terms of exterior design with 0 being the lowest and 10 being the highest. The GS hybrid has the same score as a normal GS considering the fact that the Hybrid is almost identical to the normal GS. Proponents believe that exterior design maybe the most radical for Lexus but it is still incorporates the basics that make the GS hybrid distinctively a Lexus. Deponents state that while proponents maybe correct, it still does not compare to more comfortable, sportier and more elegant designs by its competition.

Interior

It also receives high marks for its interior design. Like the exterior, the GS Hybrid’s interior is almost identical to a normal GS. Both use high end brushed aluminum, real wood, extra soft leather. Opponents state the fact that the colors and design could have been more elegant and the audio controls could do with a few tweaks. More substantial gripes about the GS hybrid are the less than adequate leg and head room that may turn off taller consumers.

Safety

Nearly perfect in the safety ranking, the GS Hybrid can be driven with confidence. The Federal government has yet to crash test the GS Hybrid. However the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety ratings remain the same as the normal GS; Front and side impact is “Good” while roof and rear impact is “Acceptable”

Standard safety features of the GS Hybrid:

1. Active head restraints
2. Airbags for the front, front-side and side curtain.
3. Anti Lock Brakes
4. Traction control
5. A” Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management System” that aids the driver recover from a skid
6. Lexus Safety Connect.

Reliability

It received a high rank in terms of reliability, scoring 8 out of 10, with 0 being the lowest and 10 being the highest. This is based on a three year reliability and performance.

Warranty specifications:

1. Basic warranty: four years or 50,000 miles
2. Powertrain warranty: six years or 72,000 miles
3. Wheel alignment: 8 years or 100,000 miles
4. Tire balancing: 1 year or 20,000 miles

However competition remains the same. Those that want a more elegant interior with better leg and head room can look at the Mercedes S class (MSRP $91,000; 19 city / 25 hwy), those that prefer a sportier exterior, better acceleration and handling can look at the BMW 5 ActiveHybrid ($45,050; 22 city/ 32 hwy) Sedan. However for those who prefer above average performance and design with the added benefit of fuel economy, the 2011 Lexus GS Hybrid is the car for them.

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“The Hybrid badges are small and rather easy to miss on the 2011 Lexus GS 450h, and that's no mistake. This sport sedan, which can accelerate to 60 mph just as quick, if not quicker, than the V-8-powered GS 460, was conceived more as a high-tech performance sedan than a hybrid-halo model.”Car Connection

“Though dubious in terms of outright value, the 2011 Lexus GS 450h midsize hybrid-powered luxury sport sedan delivers swift V8-style performance while consuming fuel like a V6 family sedan.”Edmunds

“The GS hybrid combines the handling of a rear wheel drive performance sedan with green technology.”MSN-Consumer Reports

The 2011 Dodge Durango is basically a large crossover sports utility vehicle. It is also available in five trim levels. And for this year’s model, the Durango has been completely redesigned to incorporate new useful and stylish features that will easily make it an excellent choice for you.

The interior received an overhaul from the past model. In the same manner, this model’s engines also received a couple of improvements. You will also feel that the ride is now truck-like but with a hint of traditional sophistication. It is like a more modern take on the making of SUV. And now, this year’s model of the Durango is very much ready to take on its competitors in the class of crossover SUVs.

Specifications

Performance

Under the hood, you actually have a lot of engine choices and combinations for this model. For instance, with this model, you have the option of going for a rear-wheel, four-wheel or all-wheel drive. The engines accompanying these options can either be a V6 or a V8. Nonetheless, there are certain models of the Durango with specific combinations. The base engine is the V6 that is equipped with a capacity for 3.6 liters and is capable of producing as much as 290 horsepower. The other engine option is the V* Hemi engine which can give you as much as 360 horsepower.

And because of the excellent and powerful engine under the hood—as is the usual for Dodges in general—this model delivers an excellent performance. The V6 engine will give you a comfortable ride around town. On the other hand, the V8 engine is best for towing.

Exterior & Interior

For the exterior styling and design, this model is definitely a good choice if you want a pleasant-looking SUV for the family. As a matter of fact, the 2011 Durango stands out among its competitors. A review even said that it is downright dapper. If the previous versions of the Durango were bulky and big, this year’s model is definitely sleek and smooth.

Some of the equipment which are considered as standard for this model are 18 inch alloy wheels; side view mirrors which are heated, and fog lamps.

In terms of the interior style and design, the Durango does not disappoint. Actually, this model is getting a lot of good reviews for the interior materials and features. As a matter of fact, certain reviews also say that the comfortableness of the Durango is way better than some of its competitors.

This model can actually seat as much as 7 people. And all the while, it does not compromise the comfort of both the driver and passengers. And when it comes to the interior features, most reviews say that both the optional and standard features of this model are really comprehensive.

Safety

And even though this model of the Durango has not undergone crash tests yet, you can still be assured that you will be safe here. It is fully equipped with safety features that are considered standard among all units of this model. Some of these features are electronic stability control, air bags and anti-lock brakes.

More

More than these standard features, you also have the choice of adding optional features. Some of which are sensors for rear parking, camera for rear view and a monitoring system for blind spots.

Nonetheless, despite the excellent safety feature, this model got a mediocre score of 6.0 out of a total of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating of the J. D. Power. Also, this version of the Durango comes with a basic but limited warranty of 36,000 miles or 3 years. There is also a power train warranty of 100,000 miles or 5 years.

The Competition

All in all, this model is an excellent choice if you want a crossover SUV. But if you still want to be open to other options, you may want to try the Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $30,215; 16 city / 23 hwy) and the 2011 Ford Explorer (MSRP $28,360; 17 city / 25 hwy) which are considered to be competitors of the 2011 Dodge Durango.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Dodge Durango is the anti-crossover, especially with the HEMI and R/T trim, and if the world still sanctioned big SUVs for small families, the Durango would be elbowing its way to driveways everywhere.”Car Connection

“Despite large overall dimensions and a heavy curb weight, Durango is surprisingly nimble. Steering and brake-pedal feel are quite good. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled. An impressively tight turning radius is a boon for close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“Thanks chiefly to its welcoming new interior and balanced ride and handling, the 2011 Dodge Durango is now competitive against top crossover SUVs.”Edmunds

The 2011 Dodge Challenger is basically a muscle car from the automobile giant Chrysler. It is a coupe with five seats. It is available in 3 trim levels as well. And then each trim is paired with a specific engine.

And yes, this definitely looks like a muscle car and feels like a muscle car when you are driving it. The model for this year also went through a lot of improvements and redesigning that aim to fix the faults that were criticized in the past. And this time, you can be assured that the Challenger can definitely keep up with its competitors on and off the road.

Specifications

Performance

It is basically under the hood where you will see the big alterations and improvements made to this year’s model of the Challenger. The steering, brakes as well as suspension have been improved. And these improved features definitely made the Challenger keep up with its competitors like the Mustang even on curved roads.

The base engine for the 2011 Challenger is a 3.6 litersV6 engine. However, each trim has certain engine specifications. For the base trim, you can get as much as 305 horsepower. The R/T trim can give you 372 horsepower coupled with a V8 engine capable of 5.7 liters.

Reviewers and users are also impressed with the handling of this model. Actually, the reviews say that the handling is really god especially for a large car. However, there are still cars from other automobile companies which can give you better performance on the road.

Exterior

In terms of exterior design and styling, users and reviewers definitely love the retro-inspired look of the Challenger. However, this is not exactly a unique feature of this model. Its competitors like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Camaro also got inspiration from their muscle cars from the past.

However, there are also reviews that say that more than being retro inspired, the 2011 Challenger focuses more on the logical evolution of the looks or appearance of the original models.

Interior

On the other hand, the interior styling and design of the Challenger for this year seems to fall short of the high bar set by the exterior design. Most reviews actually echo the assessment that the interior of this model is quite plain or bland. Rearward visibility has also been compromised because of the design.

Nonetheless, there are still reviews which say that the materials used in this year’s Challenger are still of good quality. The interior can also be functional because of the added features. And although generally speaking, the seating capacity of muscle cars is not really great, this model still outshone its competitors with its roomy back seat.

Safety

When it comes to safety, you can still be assured that the Dodge Challenger has the standard safety features to keep you and your family away from harm as much as possible. All units come with traction as well as stability control. Active head restraints were also present. Airbags are also installed in standard areas inside the vehicle. And of course, there are anti-lock brakes.

Reliability

But when it comes to reliability, this model only garnered a mere 6 in a total of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating released by J. D. Power. This model comes with a Powertrain warranty for 100,000 miles or 5 years; as well as a limited warranty that covers three years or 36,000 miles.

Overall, this model boasts of great engines and a good ride. The interior is also considered spacious and comfortable. The exterior has also made really excellent impressions. Nonetheless, the rear visibility of the vehicle has been compromised. And though the handling of the 2011 Dodge Challenger can be good, it is not really as excellent and sharp as its competitors.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Dodge Challenger has retro style and blistering muscle-car performance in spades, but it's a surprisingly well-equipped, comfortable touring coupe to boot.”Car Connection

“Accurate steering is marred by excessive power assist. Though not as agile as a Mustang, Challenger handles well given its sheer size and heft. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled, and the brakes provide sure-footed stopping control.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Dodge Challenger may look like a muscle car and go like a muscle car, but its ability to also be a grand American touring coupe cements its status as the most livable of the reborn pony cars.”Edmunds

“The Challenger is based on the Chrysler 300 but is a large and heavy car that comes up short on sporty credentials. It is very quick in a straight line and is a fairly comfortable and effortless cruiser.”MSN-ConsumerReports

The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is a midsize sports utility vehicle which function well for both family use and off-road purposes. It is a midsize SUV that has a capacity for seven passengers. It is available in five trim levels as well. And since this is the 25th anniversary of the Pathfinder, its manufacturer—the automobile giant Nissan—has decided to add a special Silver Edition to the line up of this models trims.

Nonetheless, even though the 2011 model of the Pathfinder is now bigger, its off-road capacity is hindered by its size and weight. Thus, a lot of reviews find that it might not do well in this area.

Specifications

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that there are two engine options offered for this model. One is the 4.-liter V6 engine. This is considered to be the standards for all the trim levels except the one at the top. This V6 engine of the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is capable of producing up to 266 horsepower as well as 288 pound-feet of torque.

On the other hand, the other engine is a V8 with a 5.6-liter capacity. It can produce as much as 310 horsepower coupled with 380 pound-feet of torque. This is the engine of the Pathfinder LE V8 trim. As for the transmission, all models come with a five-speed automatic transmission as a standard.

Interior & Exterior

When it comes to the exterior, the reviews are quite mixed for the 2011 model. Although as a standard, all the trims in this model are equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights and automatic headlights. There are also running boards included.

A review has also called this model as a truck in truck’s clothing. For instance, it has the same blocky and chiselled look of some models from its class. And while there are a couple of reviews which are not really satisfied with the styling and design of the 2011 Pathfinder, this is not to say that they find it horrible.

But when it comes to the interior, there are quite a lot of positive reviews for this model. This has quite an attractive cabin and a refined dashboard. And although most customers and experts are satisfied with the cabin of this model, some of them still find the second and third rows to be cramped.

As for the interior features, the 2011 model has really received much improvement. A lot of reviews have also been saying that the interior features and technology of this model works well.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to safety matters, this model comes with a handful of standard safety features. For instance, all the models come with antilock disc brakes, front-seat side and side curtain airbags, as well as active front seat restraints. All models of the Nissan Pathfinder are also equipped with stability control. This model also comes with Vehicle Dynamic Control as well as roof-mounted supplemental air bags.

However, when it comes to reliability, a lot of reviews only find this mode mediocre. As a matter of fact, it only got 6.0 out of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating by J. D. Power. As for the basic warranty, this model comes with a warranty of three years or 36,000 miles. It also has a drive-train warranty of five years or 60,000 miles.

Pros & Cons

All in all, the customers and experts like the powerful engines of this model. The towing capability of the 2011 model is also a hit, and so is the large storage room. On the other hand, there are some complaints as regards the minimal cargo space and cramped seating for the second and third rows.

The Competition

Finally, if you are looking for other choices, you may want to check out the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $29,370; 17 city / 24 hwy) and Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $30,215; 16 city / 23 hwy) which are considered competitors of the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Pathfinder is a workhorse SUV that also offers decent comfort and an impressive feature set.”Car Connection

“V6 Pathfinders are peppy from a stop and around town. A 2WD SE did 0-60 mph in 7.8 seconds in our testing. Passing maneuvers require a brief moment for the transmission to downshift, but power is ample thereafter. ”Consumer Guide

“Powerful V6 and V8 engines; generous storage room; strong towing ability.”Edmunds

“If you're looking for a way to haul seven people without the "Soccer Mom" stigma associated with driving a minivan, check out the 2011 Nissan Pathfinder. The Pathfinder's four-wheel-drive system is capable of challenging the best off-road vehicles in the industry, proving that its rugged image isn't just for show.”KBB

2012 awaits the entry of the newest offering from Shelby Super Cars (SSC), the 2012 SSC Tuatara. This car is aimed to unseating the Bugatti Veyron SS as the fastest car in the world. Jerod Shelby, founder and CEO of SSC, unveiled the Tuatara in the presence of a few people from the industry. Jerod Shelby is not related to Carroll Shelby, the legend behind all those muscle cars. The name of this supercar is derived from the Maori language that describes a resident reptile from New Zealand, Tuatara, means “peaks at the back.”

Shelby and his team of 16 engineers have put their skills together to produce a high performance production vehicle in the SSC Tuatara by highlighting this rear wheel drive, 1,350 horsepower speedster. SSC produced the Ultimate Aero that was able to topple the record established by the Bugatti Veyron. In 2007, the Ultimate Aero TT had a run of 256 mph on a four mile stretch of a Texas carriageway. The Volkswagen owned Bugatti, not to be denied, came back with the Veyron SS (Super Sport) and clocked a record 267 mph.

With the Tuatara, Shelby SuperCars intends to reclaim that distinction of being the fastest car in the world, by aiming for a record setting 275 mph.

Performance

As for the engine, Jerod Shelby’s team of engineers has come up with a rear wheel drive, quad cam (four valves per cylinder OHC), twin turbo V8 engine. This 7 Liter engine produces 1350 HP and revs up to 9000 rpm.

Braking is aided by traction control, ABS with servo assistance, and the use of carbon ceramic brakes by Brembo. It comes in at 2646 lbs (1200 kgs) curb weight, which puts it at 1407 lbs(638 kgs) lighter than the Veyron. Little, if any, change has been done on the suspension in which SSC keeps the coil over setup intact along with the triple plate carbon clutch mechanism.

Expectations are high on this new SSC Tuatara, with all those horses; zero to sixty mph should come in under 2.8 seconds. It has been claimed that its top speed will be at 275 mph, hang on to your seats for the final results.

Exterior

The body design of the Tuatara was rendered by Jason Castriota, an Italian-American designer who has been instrumental in creating some of the best looking cars in the world. Among his creations include the best in the industry, Bertone, Ferrari, Rolls Royce, and Pininfarina. Castriota was unsure whether he wanted to take on the challenge presented to him by Jerod Shelby in designing this latest from SSC.

When he did take up the challenge, the result has become the ideal in combining form and function. The black teardrop shaped canopy splashed amid the white body provides a contrast in style and power. The classic shape allows it for a minimum of drag. Dihedral stabilizers (wings) add to the Tuatara’s performance and look. The winglets located in the rear not only improve aerodynamics, but also keeps the car together as it speeds up to 200 miles per hour.

Body and chassis are made of carbon fiber, except for those impact areas in the front and rear of the Tuatara. It also has oval cut outs in varying sizes that help release heat produced by the engine through the body. The Tuatara features an F-1 looking exhaust that functions as a diffuser in the rear. When looking down at this low slung supercar, the Tuatara can seem intimidating.

Interior

No one really knows what to expect what the interior of the Tuatara will look like. The total interior design has not been completed. It will have the necessary features in driving a two seater, such as the seatbelts and auto air-conditioner.

Speculation has it that the inside of the Tuatara will live up to its reputation in addition to providing easy viewing and access LCD central displays.

The Competition

There is little competition in this area of supercars. The SSC Tuatara is expected to be priced at $970,000, while the Bugatti Veyron SS rings the bell at $2.4 million. If you have extra to spend, the other potential alternative is the Koenigsegg Agera, $1.5 million.

Whichever way you go, you have an international choice at your disposal; the SSC Tuatara from the USA, Bugatti Veyron SS from Germany, and the Swedish Koenigsegg Agera. Whether you’re looking for a showroom vehicle or one for the racetrack, chances are the Tuatara will push its competitors once again to the limits, watch for this fastest evolving DNA creation from SSC.