The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake combines innovative design, technology, and highest-quality materials, representing the company name. The shooting brake is a historic term which has evolved into a synonymous name for a vehicle which combines the features of a station wagon, and a coupe.

Mercedes-Benz has created the elite sports car, with seating for five, and a large rear compartment for luggage. The Shooting Brake is designed for those who want a different look, but do not want to compromise on sportiness, style, comfort, or storage space.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon

Base Price: NA

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 4.6 Liter
Horsepower: 408 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 443 lb-ft	Transmission: 7G Tronic Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)

Engine Variants

There are four engine variants to choose from in the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake. The CLS 250 CDI 2.1 liter, 4 cylinder diesel engine provides 204 horsepower, while the CLS 350 CDI 3.0 liter, V-6 offers 256 horsepower.

The 350 CLS 3.5 liter, V-6 gas engine offers 306 horsepower, and the 550 CLS 4.6 liter, V-8, twin-turbocharged gas engine offers 408 horsepower. The Shooting Brake can accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in 7.8 seconds, and 5.3 seconds, with a top speed of 155 miles per hour.

The Shooting Brake comes with automatic transmission featuring 7G-TRONIC PLUS, with ECO start and stop function, providing fuel and emission economy. The air suspension is automatically adjustable, ensuring proper handling when cargo is being transported. Electromechanical direct steering ensures comfort and sportiness in driving agility. The efficient and powerful drive systems equal driving pleasure and agility, with environmental responsibility.

Exterior

The CLS Shooting Brake uses lighter aluminum construction to provide better aerodynamics which contributes to its efficiency. The long hood, narrow window line, with frameless side windows flow continuously. It is hardly evident that there are four doors and a tailgate upon first glance. The elongated roof flows back aerodynamically to the electric EASY-PACK tailgate.

Interior

The interior is designed with high-quality materials, with optional details for personal preferences. The porcelain interior color, with optional two-tone leather adds luxury, and can be trimmed in satin or high-gloss metal. The rear compartment seating provides room for three passengers, and offers more headroom than the CLS Coupe. The Quickfold back seats fold individually, to allow space availability in the luggage compartment.

The luggage compartment extends to a capacity of 54.7 cubic feet of space. The floor of the compartment is lined with carpeting, and there is an option for a wooden floor. The cherry tree wood veneers with smoked oak inlays refine the design. Brushed aluminum strips may be added to protect the floor, while keeping luggage from sliding.

Added Features

The optional full LED headlights use a unique system which is not yet available in any other vehicle. The Intelligent Light System, with Adaptive Highbeam Assist can adjust lighting to maximum viewing ease in all types of light.

The Driving Assistance package Plus offers DISTRONIC PLUS, PRE-SAFE Brake, Active Parking Assist, and ATTENTION ASSIST to make the car both safe and comfortable. The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS Shooting Brake is a five-door coupe which does not lack in luxury and efficiency, but also offers the sporty feel and agility in driving pleasure.

The 2012 Smart Fortwo is an affordable car, mostly associated with city life because of its size and engine that makes it easy to park and maneuver in jam-packed metropolitan environments.

Despite this 2-passenger car having a tiny exterior appearance, many people appreciate and are amazed by its spacious and comfortable cabin with enough leg and headroom even for tall adults.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact Coupe	Base Price: $12,490.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.7 gallons (33l)	MPG: 34 city / 38 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 106.1 in. (269.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 73.5 in. (186.7 cm)
Height: 60.7 in. (154.1 cm)	Width: 61.3 in. (155.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 1808 lbs (820 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 7.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 12 Valve Inline 3 DOHC	Displacement: 1.0 Liter
Horsepower: 70 HP	Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 68 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Auto/Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Passion Coupe	MSRP: $14,890; MPG: 34 city / 38 hwy
Option:Passion Cabriolet	MSRP: $17,890; MPG: 34 city / 38 hwy
Option:Electric Drive	MSRP: Coming Soon; MPG: NA – All Electric

Engine & Performance

The Smart Fortwo is powered by a rear-mounted 1.0L 3-cylinder powertrain that produces 70 hp and 68 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is connected to a standard 5-speed automated manual transmission, to help the car reach a maximum speed of 90 mph.

The transmission can be shifted manually through the console-mounted stick in any trim or through shift paddles on the steering column of the Passion trim. This car can accelerate from standstill to 60 mph in 14.1 seconds. It nets a fuel economy estimate of 34 mpg in the city and 38 mpg while driving on a highway. The 2012 Smart Fortwo is popular due to its accurate steering and maneuverability in close quarters and urban runabouts.

Exterior

The Fortwo is built on a 73.5-inch wheelbase, measuring just 106.1 inches in length. This 2-seat subcompact is offered in convertible or hatchback coupe bodies and two trim levels: Passion and Pure. All Pure trims are fitted with 15-inch steel wheels, while the Passion is equipped with 15-inch alloy wheels.

Standard exterior features on the Passion Coupe are: glass roof and heated power mirrors. Passion Cabriolet (convertible) adds glass rear window and power convertible top to its exterior. Optional exterior features on Passion models include: metallic paint, wired tires and wheels, fog lights, and automatic wipers and lights.

Interior

Although this car looks small from the outside, you do not have to worry about the cabin being cramp. This cabin has an attractive design and is well laid out. However, AC and radio do not come standard. Although this car does not come with a radio, it is equipped with an installation prep package for radio which comes with an auxiliary input jack.

All in all, the cabin material used are solid and well assembled. Passion Cabriolet and Coupe models come with more standard features that include paddle shifters and power windows; while optional features include surround sound and a navigation system. This car comes with a cargo space of 7.8 cubic ft behind the seats, which can reach a maximum of 12 cubic feet after packing the roof.

Safety & Reliability

Having been built by Mercedes-Benz, many safety features have been included to guarantee the safety of the occupants during a ride or in the event of a collision. All models come with standard features that include: driver and passenger airbags, electronic stability control, 4-wheel ABS, 4-wheel disc brakes and traction control. Coupe models are equipped with side curtain airbags, while the Cabriolets are fitted with side airbags.

All new 2012 Fortwo cars are backed with 4-year or 50,000 mile limited warranty, as well as 5-year or 60,000 miles warranty for the engine. Rust corrosion is also covered by a warranty that lasts for the first 5 years, regardless of the mileage.

Pros

• Excellent fuel economy
• Very maneuverable in cities
• Spacious seating for two

Cons

• Little cargo space
• Jerky transmission
• Sluggish acceleration
• Poor warranty coverage

In general, the 2012 Smart Fortwo is a good car for city dwellers. It has good fuel economy, favors tight-quarter maneuverability and has good road manners.

Overall Rating
52 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Smart Fortwo, with its lack of refinement, rough transmission and unpleasant highway ride, is one of the least desirable cars on the market. There are plenty of other cars we’d recommend as a compact city car.”Edmunds

“Agile around town; tiny dimensions help provide outstanding close-quarters maneuverability. Light, accurate steering contributes to an almost sporty demeanor, though some testers complain of tippy sensations in corners. Note that ForTwo is especially susceptible to highway crosswind wander.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 smart fortwo continues unchanged from the 2011 model year.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“For a vehicle with a tremendously short wheelbase, we found the 2012 Smart Fortwo’s ride surprisingly comfortable. The faster you go, however, the more skittish the Fortwo becomes…”KBB

“Still stylish and quirky, the 2012 Smart Fortwo can be a fun and useful car for tight urban spaces where its size and maneuverability is an asset; but for even occasional highway driving, nearly any other small car would be a better pick.”Car Connection

The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is a Luxury midsize hybrid SUV. It is considered to be among the best-driving hybrid SUVs available on the market today.

This high-quality hybrid SUV is receives praise because of its great fuel efficiency.

The Touareg can meet the challenges posed by the competition.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV Hybrid	Base Price: $62,055.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100l)	MPG: 20 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.8 in. (479.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.9 in. (289.3 cm)
Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm)	Width: 76.4 in. (194 cm)
Curb Weight: 5135 lbs (2329 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 32.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L V6 DOHC Parallel Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 333 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
Electric Motor: 47 HP	Torque: 221 lbs-ft
Battery: Nickel-hydride Metallic	Voltage: 288V
0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 7716 lbs (3500 kgs)

Engine & Performance

The Touareg Hybrid comes with a standard 333 horsepower 3.0L V6 hybrid engine combined with a 47-hp electric motor, to produce a total of 380 hp and 425 lbs-ft of torque. In addition to that, the Touareg gets a standard AWD enabling it net a fuel economy estimated at 20 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on a highway.

The engine is combined to standard 8-speed automatic transmissions that delivers smooth shifts and prompt response to throttle inputs. When electric mode is in use, the Hybrid can speed up to 31 mph. A properly equipped Touareg Hybrid can tow up to 7,700 pounds, a capacity that most rivals cannot achieve. This SUV’s brakes are also appreciated for their natural feel, unlike the regenerative systems in most hybrids.

Exterior

The Hybrid model comes with muscular styling and excludes exuberant hybrid decals found on most rivals such as GMC Yukon Hybrid. Notable features include: power moon roof, auto-dimming rear view mirror, power rear cargo lift gate, front fog lights, rain sensing wipers, fully automatic headlights, rear window wiper and defroster, spoiler dual exhaust heated door mirrors and turn signal indicator mirrors. The Touareg Hybrid also comes with 19-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

You will find the Touareg Hybrid spacious and comfortable. The cabin comes with many standard features and seats that accommodate up to five people. This SUV comes with standard 12-way power-adjustable heated front seats.

It also comes with heated rear row seats that slides forward and back, to allow the occupants to set more comfortable legroom. Standard interior features include: 8-speaker sound system, dual-zone climate control system with air filter, rear beverage holders, navigation system and keyless entry with push-button start. Behind the rear seat, you will get a cargo space of 32.1 cubic ft, which increases to 64 cubic ft after folding the rear row.

Safety & Reliability

The VW Touareg Hybrid has a respectable list of standard safety features. These include: driver and front passenger airbags, front side head airbags, side impact airbags, rear head airbag, electronic stability control, child safety locks, traction control, daytime running lights, panic alarm, immobilizer, and 4-wheel disc brakes.

The Touareg Hybrid is protected by a 3-year or 36,000 miles limited warranty, as well as a powertrain warranty that lasts for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles. In addition to that, owners will also benefit from road assistance during basic warranty period.

Pros

• Roomy rear seats
• Seamless powertrain operation
• High-quality interior
• Sporty handling
• High towing capacity
• Impressive equipment roster

Cons

• High price tag
• Touareg TDI is better value
• Intrusive safety-oriented electronics
• No third row seat

The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg Hybrid is an option for people looking for a midsize family hybrid SUV. Not only will you get a smooth ride, but the seats are comfortable, making the experience more enjoyable.

Competition

The competition the Touareg Hybrid faces includes the likes of the Porsche Cayenne Hybrid (MSRP $69,850; 20 city / 24 hwy), the BMW 5 Series Hybrid (MSRP $61,100; 23 city / 30 hwy), and the only outsider, the Land Rover Range Rover Sport (MSRP $60,045; 13 city / 18 hwy).

What others say:

“The Touareg Hybrid is powered by a 3.0-liter TSI supercharged V6 engine combined with an electric motor that significantly reduces fuel consumption and emission compared to the previous V8 version.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg is a luxury midsize SUV, produced by the German manufacturer to appeal to drivers who want a comfortable, economical SUV which can handle most driving conditions.

It is advertised as an all-around vehicle, rather than a true off-roader, but its strong engine and quality construction make it tough enough to deal with most road conditions. The Touareg is also known for its luxurious cabin.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $43,425.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100l)	MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.8 in. (479.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.9 in. (289.3 cm)
Height: 68.2 in. (173.2 cm)	Width: 76.4 in. (194 cm)
Curb Weight: 4711 lbs (2136 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 32.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.6L VR6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1
Horsepower: 280 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 266 lb-ft @ 2500 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds	Max Braked Towing: 7716 lbs (3500kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:TDI Sport 3.0L V6 Diesel	MSRP: $46,925; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy
Option:VR6 Lux	MSRP: $48,855; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:TDI Lux	MSRP: $52,930; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy
Option:VR6 Executive	MSRP: $55,155; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Executive TDI	MSRP: $58,655; MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy
Option:Hybrid	MSRP: $62,055; MPG: 20 city / 24 hwy

Engine & Performance

Although the Volkswagen is quite a heavy car, it offers good performance. The company has tweaked the settings to highlight comfort, rather than sportiness, but even so, the Touareg is capable of reasonably rapid responses when needed.

Power is provided by a 280-horsepower, 3.5-liter, V6 engine; there is an option for a 3.0-liter diesel engine. Acceleration is smooth rather than sporty, but the car responds well in most driving conditions.

The Touareg is less rugged than some of its rivals. However, it is still capable on rough surfaces, with the diesel-powered variant gaining particular praise from drivers, due to its impressive 406 lb ft of torque. Fuel economy is improved over the gasoline-fueled base model, with city/highway mpg of 19/28 in the diesel and 16/23 in the gas version. The engines are fairly quiet.

Exterior

The Touareg’s streamline design is restrained, making this a vehicle more suited for drivers who prefer a subtler appearance, rather than those who really want to be the center of attention. Volkswagen ensured to give the Touareg a docile look, instead focusing on making the car look classy and up market.

Interior

This approach extends to the interior. Five adults fit with great comfort, thanks to the Touareg’s premium-quality. The seats are leatherette in the basic trim, although full leather is available as an option, while both the navigation system and the eight-speaker sound system are controlled by a touch screen. The rear seat is spacious, with passengers getting more room than in other midsize SUVs.

Safety & Reliability

The Touareg scores well when it comes to safety, having been selected by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as a “Top Pick” – it achieved maximum “Good” ratings in every one of the four categories used for the assessment. However, the car has not been officially tested by the federal government. Electronic stability control and traction control also make for safer handling, while multiple air bags and all-round disc brakes protect the car’s inhabitants.

Reliability is one area where the car does not fare well, with the Vehicle Dependability Study by J. D. Power, the Touareg receives just 2.5 stars out of a possible 5.

Volkswagen’s limited warranty lasts for three years or 36,000 miles, which is average, although it does provide owners with complementary roadside assistance. The powertrain is warranted for five years or 60,000 miles, which is still below the class leaders.

Recap

The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg is not an SUV for someone who wants to travel into the depths of the woods or wade across wide rivers. It is expensive, with its price tag higher than its competition.

It is aimed squarely at drivers for whom the top priority is being able to carry their passengers in luxury and safety, and it is therefore likely to appeal to families and those who want a well-appointed and smooth-running SUV in which to spend extended periods.

Competition

The Touareg bravely competes with the likes of the Acura MDX (MSRP $43,280; 16 city / 21 hwy), the BMW X5 xDrive 35i (MSRP $47,500; 16 city / 23 hwy), and of course, the Mercedes Benz ML 350 (MSRP $47,270; 18 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“Confident driving dynamics; high-class interior; impressive equipment roster; powerful and fuel-efficient engine options; high towing capacity….No third-row seat; spongy brake pedal feel; upper trims get costly.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Volkswagen Touareg offers refined powertrains, excellent interior comfort, as well as a luxurious feel–although it carries a luxury-class price tag for a mainstream brand.”Car Connection

“Unlike its Porsche Cayenne sibling, Touareg is no excitement machine. It handles competently, with good steering feel, and well-controlled body lean in fast corners. Braking control is solid, with the Hybrid having especially good pedal feel for a gas/electric vehicle.”Consumer Guide

“The Touareg is an agile, solid, well-finished SUV with comfortable seats and a plush interior.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If an on-road dynamic is more important than off-road capability, today’s Volkswagen Touareg is one of the better choices in the marketplace…”KBB

The 2012 Volvo XC90 is a luxury midsize crossover that offers a seating capacity for up to 7 people using 3 rows. This SUV comes with passenger oriented design, offering more comfort, space, and safety over off-road ability.

However for 2012, Volvo is not offering a V8 engine, but the number of trim levels have expanded after the addition of Platinum and Premier Plus trims.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $39,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80l)	MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.3 in. (480.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.6 in. (286 cm)
Height: 70.2 in. (178.3 cm)	Width: 74.7 in. (189.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4751 lbs (2155 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.6 in. (21.8 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 8.8 cu ft w/ all seats	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve Inline-6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.2 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:R Design

MSRP: $42,300; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

All 2012 XC90 models are equipped with a 3.2L inline 6-cylinder drive train that makes 240 hp and 236 lbs-ft of torque. All models will also come with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. In addition to that, front wheel drive is offered as standard, although customers can choose the available AWD system offered as an option.

The R-design model comes with a sport-tuned suspension with thicker rear and front stabilizer bars and firmer struts and springs. It can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.7 seconds, getting 16 mpg city and 23 mpg highway. The XC90 handles very well and offers a smooth ride which is relatively composed on most roads.

Exterior

There two main trim levels: 3.2 and the R-design. These trims are further offered in 3 sub-trim levels: base, Premier Plus and Platinum. The base trim come with standard features that include: fog lamps, 18-inch-alloy wheels, sunroof, heated mirrors, and rear parking sensors, keyless entry, roof rails and rear privacy glass.

Stepping up to the midrange Premier Plus trim, you get extra features like a rearview mirror with integrated compass and adaptive bi-xenon headlights. Meanwhile, the top-of-the-line Platinum comes with a rearview camera plus other features found in the Premier Plus.

The 3.2 R-Design sub-trims are identical, coming with 20-inch alloy wheels; sport tuned suspension, self-leveling rear suspension, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and distinctive exterior styling touches.

Interior

The XC90 can comfortably accommodate 7 people in its 3-row seats, although the third row is suitable for smaller people, including children. Despite the fact that the rear seats are cramped, they are offered in an integrated cushion, allowing the occupants to sit high enough for seatbelt and head restraint to provide proper protection.

The base model comes with standard power driver’s seat with memory, as well as power front passenger’s seat. The base model is well equipped with high-tech features, despite its low base price. These include: air conditioning vents and controls for the third-row, tilt and telescoping steering wheel that houses audio and cruise controls, power glass sunroof, automatic climate control, USB/ iPod interface, HD radio and Bluetooth.

Optional features are: heated front seats, Volvo premium sound system, integrated navigation system and interior air filter. This crossover has a remarkable cargo space of 85.1 cubic feet when the second and third rows are folded.

Safety & Reliability

There are many standard safety features included in the 2012 XC90, these are: stability control, antilock brakes, 4-wheel ABS, rollover protection system, child safety locks, electronic stability control, integrated turn signal mirrors, driver and front passenger airbags, side airbags, rear head airbag and side head airbags.

The XC90 is covered by a 5-year or 50,000 miles limited warranty, in addition to the 60,000-mile or 5-year wear-and-tear warranty. Owners will also benefit from 5-year road assistance as well as complimentary scheduled factory maintenance.

Pros

• Standard third row
• Smooth ride
• Comfortable front seats
• Large cargo capacity

Cons

• Poor fuel economy
• Underpowered base engine
• Antiquated navigation system is difficult to use

The 2012 Volvo XC90 is certainly a nice car, offering quiet and smooth rides on the highway. The quality interior and exterior finish, and respectable cargo space are among the key features that draw the attention of people looking for luxury midsize SUVs.

Competition will come from the Land Rover LR2 (MSRP $35,700; 15 city / 22 hwy), the Volkswagen Touareg (MSRP $43,425; 17 city / 23 hwy), and the Acura MDX (MSRP $43,280; 16 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Upscale and stylish interior; supportive front seats; practical packaging and features; optional all-wheel drive; smooth ride…Third-row seating cuts into second-row room; underwhelming power; antiquated navigation system is difficult to use.” Edmunds

“The 2012 Volvo XC90 does its family-hauling duties with aplomb but drivers who yearn for something a little sporty best look elsewhere.” Car Connection

“Unfortunately, XC90 handles more like a large, truck-type wagon than a crossover. Lifeless steering and marked body lean are problematic, and this Volvo is susceptible to highway-speed crosswind wander. The brakes don’t inspire confidence, owing to non-linear stopping and vague pedal feel.” Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Volvo XC90 delivers good on-road performance, wringing the most out of its 6-cylinder engine. Volvo pegs XC90’s 0-60 mph time at 8.7 seconds. That isn’t sports-car fast, but neither is it SUV laggardly.” KBB