The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is classified as a Compact SUV, offering a comfortable interior, good fuel economy and standard AWD. The XV Crosstrek is an upgraded version of the Impreza hatchback, and comes with the same ground clearance as the Outback wagon.

It will face competition from small off-roaders like Mitsubishi Outlander Sport and the Jeep Compass.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV AWD	Base Price: $21,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60l)	MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 175.2 in. (445 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.7 in. (263.3 cm)
Height: 63.6 in. (161.5 cm)	Width: 70.1 in. (178 cm)
Curb Weight: 3087 lbs (1400 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 22.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC SUBARU Boxer®	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed M/T

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Limited

MSRP: $24,495; MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2013 XV Crosstrek comes standard with a 2.0L horizontally opposed 4-cylinder engine that generates 148 horsepower and 145 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is linked to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, combined with a full time AWD system with 50/50 front/rear power distribution. The Limited trim comes with a standard CVT with paddle shifters, which is optional in the Premium model.

The CVT applies more power to the front wheels, but applies 100% power to the rear wheels whenever traction is needed. The Crosstrek gets a fuel economy estimate of 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway. Many are pleased with the Crosstrek’s balanced handling, powerful brakes and car-like ride. This SUV offers respectable off-road performance, thanks to the standard AWD system that enables the Crosstrek to handle a range of road conditions.

Exterior

The XV Crosstrek comes in two trim levels: 2.0i Premium and 2.0i Limited. The Premium trim is fitted with standard features that include: roof rails, windshield wiper de-icer, 17-inch alloy wheels, black side and wheel-arch cladding, and a spoiler. The Limited trim on the other hand, adds extra features not found in the premium including: rearview camera and automatic headlights.

Both trims have a ground clearance of 8.7 inches which is equal to that of the Outback, and higher than that of Impreza hatchback by more than 3 inches.

Interior

The XV Crosstrek’s interior is attractively designed, offering decent cargo space, a great sound system, and comfortable seats. The two row seats can accommodate up to 5 people and offer enough leg and headroom even for tall people. The Premium trim comes with standard heated front seats, while the Limited model is fitted with standard leather seats. Standard 6-speaker stereo is available in all trims, and it features an auxiliary input, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a USB port.

Optional features include: voice activated GPS navigation, and power tilt/sliding moon roof. Limited trim further adds standard features that include a backup camera and automatic climate control to its cabin. The Crosstrek has 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, but this can be increased to 51.9 cubic ft after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

This SUV is fitted with standard safety features, to offer maximum safety for the occupants. These features include: driver and front passenger airbags, rear head airbags, side airbags, front row side head airbags, electronic stability control, child safety locks, brake assist, traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wheel ABS and daytime running lights.

All 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek’s are backed by a 36,000-mile or 3-year basic warranty, in addition to a 60,000-mile or 5-year engine warranty. Rust damages are covered by a warranty that lasts for the first 5 years, regardless of mileage.

Pros

• Great fuel economy
• Composed car-like ride
• Standard AWD
• Superior off-road capabilities
• Spacious cabin

Cons

• Underpowered engine
• Restrictive infotainment system
• Transmission drones under load

The 2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek is a sports car, it is definitely sporty, fun to ride and drive, and a capable SUV. Those shopping for affordable compact SUVs that come with a spacious and comfortable interior, great fuel economy and stylish design; then the 2013 XV Crosstrek is a good option for them.

Competition

The Mitsubishi Outlander (MSRP $22,695; 22 city / 28 hwy), the Dodge Journey (MSRP $18,995; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Jeep Compass (MSRP $19,295; 23 city / 29 hwy) can be compared to the XV Crosstek that gets the better mileage, pricing is within the same range.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“You’ll probably be content with the Crosstrek’s on- and off-road performance, but you’ll have to be able to forgive its lack of reserve power for passing or the steepest hills.”Car Connection

“XV Crosstrek feels agile and handles confidently in corners. The steering is accurate and nicely weighted. Braking is strong and easy to modulate. Ride height is about four inches higher than Subaru’s similar Impreza hatchback, but XV Crosstrek manages to retain a car-like demeanor on the road.”Consumer Guide

“Standard all-wheel drive; superior off-road capabilities; spacious cabin; crossover utility in a compact, fuel-efficient package…Sluggish midrange power; transmission drones under load; restrictive infotainment system.”Edmunds

The 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is ranked among the most affordable compact SUVs. This is because of its attractive interior, powerful engine, and a low starting price.

All 2012 Tiguan’s come with revived styling, while the automatic transmission has been tweaked to improve highway fuel economy. With all these features, the Tiguan is equipped to compete and overtake against rivals.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $22,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.8 gallons (64l)	MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.5 in. (443.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.5 in. (260.3 cm)
Height: 65.6 in. (166.6 cm)	Width: 71.2 in. (180.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3397 lbs (1541 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.9 in. (17.5 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 23.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline-4 DOHC Turbo	Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1
Horsepower: 200 HP	Max RPM: 5100-6000 RPM
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1700-5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds	Braked Towing Capacity: 2200 lbs (998 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:S w/ Sunroof A/T	MSRP: $26,500; MPG: 22 city / 27 hwy
Option:SE A/T	MSRP: $29,160; MPG: 22 city / 27 hwy
Option:SE w/ Nav & Sunroof	MSRP: $31,100; MPG: 22 city / 27 hwy
Option:SEL	MSRP: $34,865; MPG: 22 city / 27 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Tiguan comes with a standard 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 207 lbs-ft of torque. This powertrain is connected to a standard 6-speed manual transmission, although the SE and SEL trims are equipped with 6-speed automatic gearbox. All trims are fitted with standard front-wheel drive, although customers can go for the optional AWD.

An SEL trim equipped with AWD system can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. The automatic transmission has undergone some engineering tweaks giving front-wheel-drive trims a fuel economy of 22/27 mpg city/highway. AWD models get a fuel economy estimate of 21 mpg in cities and 27 mpg on highways. Manual transmission-equipped front-wheel drive models get a fuel economy of 18/26 mpg city/highway.

Exterior

The Tiguan is available in 4 trim levels including: the S, LE, Se and the SEL. The styling is well thought of, giving the Tiguan a fashionable look. The base S trim is fitted with standard 16-inch steel wheels, keyless entry and heated mirrors, while tinted windows and a panoramic sunroof are optional.

Stepping up to the LE trim, you will get deep tinted windows; while going up further to the SE model you will get standard features like 18-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, chrome exterior trim, heated washer nozzles and roof rails. The SEL trim comes with all features found in the SE, plus 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive bi-xenon headlights, automatic wipers, keyless entry, sport-tuned suspension and LED daytime running lights.

Interior

This SUV comes with a cabin that is made of high quality materials, well equipped and spacious. All seats have enough legroom and headroom, comfortable enough even for tall people. The rear seat can recline or slide up to 6 inches to increase the cargo space. The area around the gear selector and air vents comes with brushed-metal-style trim.

All trims come with several standard features comprising of: Bluetooth connectivity, flat-folding front-passenger seat, 8-speaker audio system and auxiliary input jack. Depending on the trim you choose, you can also get iPod connectivity, Dynaudio premium stereo, push button start and heated front seats. The Tiguan offers a cargo space of 23.8 cubic ft behind the rear row, but the capacity increases to 56.1 cubic feet after folding the rear seat.

Safety & Reliability

The Tiguan is also well equipped with standard safety features. Some of these features include: driver and front passenger airbags, side head airbags, rear head airbags, side airbags, electronic stability control, child safety locks, traction control, brake assist, 4-wheel disc brakes and 4-wheel ABS.

The Tiguan comes with a limited warranty for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, as well as an engine warranty for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles. First time owners will benefit from the corrosion perforation warranty that lasts for 12 years regardless of mileage. In addition, owners are re-assured with a free scheduled maintenance and road assistance during the first 3 years or 36,000 miles whichever comes first.

Pros

• Premium cabin appointments
• Lively turbocharged engine
• Composed ride and handling
• Intuitive interior controls
• Solid build quality

Cons

• Limited cargo space
• Requires premium fuel

Recap

The 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan is an SUV destined to continue building momentum in compact SUV market. People shopping for compact SUVs will be tempted to include this car in top of their shopping list, especially due to its comfortable interior, sporty-for-the-class road manners and the long warranties for corrosion perforation and the 3 years free scheduled maintenance.

Competition

The compact SUV segment has gotten crowded, the Honda CRV (MSRP $22,695; 23 city / 31 hwy), the Subaru Forester (MSRP $21,295; 21 city / 27 hwy), and the Toyota RAV4 (MSRP $22,650; 22 city / 28 hwy) has dominated this segment. The Tiguan, however, has more horsepower than any of those mentioned.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Volkswagen Tiguan offers a different flavor in a bland segment by trading some practicality for a top-notch cabin and European driving manners.” Edmunds

“The Tiguan feels more nimble than some crossovers, and its turbo four is gutsy.” Car Connection

“The steering feels a bit light at low speeds, but it is accurate on the road with little need for correction. Corners are handled with modest lean, and to its credit, Tiguan’s road manners are more like a car than a trucky SUV. Brakes offer strong stopping power and good pedal feel.” Consumer Guide

“The Tiguan is a solid small SUV. It offers a roomy rear seat and has excellent fit and finish. Handling is agile and secure at its limits, and the steering is sharp.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you enjoy the footprint and packaging of today’s compact SUVs, but are looking for more power and/or greater agility, the 2012 VW Tiguan makes a great deal of sense. ” KBB

The 2012 Volvo XC70 is a luxury station wagon that is essentially larger version of the XC60 SUV. The car offers traditional Volvo reliability and safety, which will probably appeal to those who want a solid family car with plenty of cargo space.

It comes at a lower price with many additional features as standard and matches the 2012 Volvo XC70 in many key areas.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $33,450.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.5 in. (483.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 110 in. (279.4 cm)
Height: 63.1 in. (160.2 cm)	Width: 73.3 in. (186.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 4147 lbs (1881 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.3 in. (21 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 33.3 cu ft w/ all seats	Maximum Seating: 5 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: 3300 lbs (1497 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:T6 AWD

MSRP: $40,100; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The car is available with a 3.2-liter V6 engine that can produce 243 horsepower and 236 pounds-feet of torque. Fuel consumption with this engine, when combined with front wheel drive only, is rated at 19 mpg in city driving and 25 mpg in highway driving. Opting for all wheel drive brings the figure down by 1 mpg.

The car can be fitted with an optional 3.0-liter, turbocharged V6 engine that is capable of delivering 304 horsepower and 325 pounds-feet of torque, and will set you back an extra $6,000. The turbocharged engine is heaver on gas and will give you 17 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the open road.

Exterior

In appearance, the 2012 XC70 is unmistakably a Volvo when looked at from the side or the rear. Streamlining and modern design at the front of the car are less obviously Volvo, and without the company’s badge and angled line logo at the front, the car might be mistaken for a product of a traditionally more stylish manufacturer.

Interior

The interior styling is modern and fresh without being breathtaking. It is clear that function takes precedence over appearance.

Fitted as standard with the XC70 are satellite radio, Bluetooth connectivity, climate control (dual zone), cruise control, and the driver’s seat is electrically powered. Unusually for a luxury car, a navigation system is not available as standard, but can be purchased as an option.

The XC70 is a 5-seater car, but in truth, three normal-sized adults in the rear would find it uncomfortable on all but the shortest journeys.

The rear seats and the front passenger seat can be folded flat to provide an exceptionally large cargo space. There is a comprehensive cargo management system that includes perfectly placed ties and bars to safely secure all types of loads.

Safety

The car is fitted as standard with a host of safety features. These include front, side and rear airbags. The car is also fitted with an electronic stability control, traction control and 4-wheel anti-lock braking system.

Optional safety extras include integrated child booster seats for the rear, blind spot monitoring, an adaptive cruise control system using radar, a lane departure alarm system, and a system that monitors the driver’s performance and produces an alert when driver fatigue is detected.

Reliability

Volvo’s warranties are among the best in the business, so it’s no surprise that top-class packages at little or no cost cover the 2012 Volvo XC70. There are 5-year protective warranties available for many aspects of the car and its components, including scheduled maintenance and roadside assistance, as well as a 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Slightly lower in price, the Audi A3 Avant (MSRP $27,270; 21 city / 30 hwy), the Acura TSX Sport Wagon (MSRP $31,360; 22 city / 30 hwy), and the Saab 9-3 (MSRP $30,330; 21 city / 31 hwy) are some of the other wagons the XC70, the only inline 6, can be compared to.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“Exceptional seat comfort; numerous safety features; available integrated rear booster seats; ample cargo capacity; potent turbocharged engine…Unimpressive handling; so-so fuel economy; disappointing braking distances.” Edmunds

“The 2012 Volvo XC70 crossover offers safety and wagon-based practicality; it’s a useful alternative to taller, blockier crossovers and sport-utility vehicles.”Car Connection

“Compared with SUVs, as is Volvo’s pretense, the XC70 is nimble and nearly sporty. Compared to traditional station wagons, XC70 has slightly less communicative steering and marginally more lean in corners.”Consumer Guide

“The XC70 is a wagon with a raised ride height. It features many of Volvo’s safety features, including a blind-spot warning system that works well.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you desire the cargo space to haul the toys of your active lifestyle and the ability to travel almost any road with them, but don’t want a big and bulky SUV, the XC70 is a premium alternative.”KBB

The excitement of car enthusiasts is nearing its peak now that the 2012 Renault Alpine A110-50 Concept has been unveiled. This supercar is a tribute to the French car brand’s A110 that conquered the streets 50 years ago.

Enlisting the aid of Alpine, the new A110-50 is expected to provide comfort better than its sports counterpart. And although Renault Sport will develop the car, it will be sold under the Alpine Badge.

Engine

The 2012 Renault Alpine A110-50 is equipped with the exclusive Renault V4Y, a 3.5 liter V6 mid-rear engine that effortlessly delivers 400 horsepower. The A110-50 will be available only as a rear-wheel drive model.

An intake is mounted on the roof to draw in clean air to the carbon fiber intake of the engine. The car has two side intakes where the left cools the engine bay and the right cools the gearbox.

Performance

Definitely, the A110-50 will deliver the performance of a true sports car. It will also have updates to make it fit for modern roads. We can expect this Renault to accelerate well in highways. Since it is yet to be released, we cannot test drive it on the city streets.

Exterior

The new A110-50 is visually stunning. It bears the Alpine Blue paint job over a sleek body work made of carbon fiber.

It has flared fender arches, a front splitter and lights which are seamlessly sculpted into the front side. The inclusion of half-halo LED fog lights are a tribute to its rally car ancestor. Moreover, the A110-50 has orange accents that help bring all the Renault glory.

Interior

The exact details about the interior are yet to be disclosed; one thing that makes the enthusiasts more excited. As to how they will design the seats, what materials they will use, we do not know.

Pros & Con

The new A110-50 has good looks, power and style. This car is suitable for sports car enthusiasts. Because the A110-50 is a novelty, it may not be suitable for daily use.

The new A110-50 gives a modern touch to a classic. If you are fond of rare sports cars, the Renault Alpine A110-50 Concept is a good choice.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Concept Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 7.9 gallons (30L)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 170.4 in. (433 cm)	Wheelbase: NA
Height: 48.4 in. (123 cm)	Width: 77.2 in. (196.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 1940 lbs (880 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve 6 Cylinder	Displacement: 3498 cc
Horsepower: 400 HP	Max RPM: 7200 rpm
Torque: 311 lb-ft @ 6200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is an affordable small car, emerging from a total redesign with a more muscular exterior and a better fuel economy rating than the 2010 edition and a Turbo model.

This year, the beetle has done away with the word “New” from its name, this being the very first time in more than 10 years. The 2012 Beetle is also more oriented on functionality than being cute. The redesigned Beetle is offered in a coupe body style, and is now longer, lower and wider; giving the car more classic proportions, more legroom, bigger cargo space and a more natural driving position.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $19,795.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55L)	MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 168.4 in. (427.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.9 in. (253.7 cm)
Height: 58.5 in. (148.5 cm)	Width: 71.2 in. (180.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2939 lbs (1333 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L Inline-5 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 177 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.0 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2.0L Turbo PZEV	MSRP: $23,395; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:TDI® 2.0L Diesel	MSRP: $23,295; MPG: 28 city / 41 hwy
Option:2.5L w/ Fender Audio, Sunroof & Nav	MSRP: $24,095; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:2.0L Turbo w/ Fender Audio, Sunroof & Nav	MSRP: $28,995; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:TDI® 2.0L Diesel w/ Fender Audio, Sunroof & Nav	MSRP: $26,195; MPG: 28 city / 41 hwy

Engine & Performance

The base and 2.5L trims use a 2.5L 5-cylinder engine that produces 170 hp and 177 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is driven by a standard 5-speed manual gearbox; although an optional 6-speed automatic transmission is available. With the automatic gearbox, you get 22/29 mpg city/highway; and can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 9 seconds. On the other hand, with the manual transmission, you get 22/31 mpg city/highway.

The 2012 Beetle Turbo uses a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 200 hp and 207 lbs-ft of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission is standard, also with the optional 6-speed automated manual (DSG). A DSG-equipped Turbo can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds. The Turbo gets 22/30 mpg city/highway in both transmission options.

Exterior

The beetle is a 2-door, 4-passenger hatchback, offered in 2 trim levels: 2.5L and Turbo. The base trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels and heated mirrors, while the 2.5L adds heated windshield washer nozzles to its list of standard features.

Optional features include: 18-inch wheels, keyless entry and a sunroof. Turbo trims add extra features like 18-inch wheels, a rear spoiler and fog lights. Here, optional features include 19-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlamps and a sunroof.

Interior

After a complete redesign of the 2012 Beetle, the cabin is now bigger and offers more cargo and passenger room. This means the seats now offer enough leg and headroom even for tall people. The Beetle has also done away with the traditional flower power vase on the dashboard. This has been replaced with features that include an optional Fender sound system, Beetle bin glove box and a sunroof.

Standard features on base model include: 8-speaker sound system, iPod interface, Bluetooth, and an auxiliary port. The Beetle comes with a cargo space of 15.4 cubic ft, which can be increased to 29.9 cubic ft after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

All Beetles come with standard safety features that comprise of: antilock disc brakes, 4-wheel ABS, electronic stability control, daytime running lights, traction control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, and front passenger and driver airbags.

New Beetle’s gets a new car warranty for 3 years or 36,000 miles, as well as an engine warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles. A free scheduled maintenance warranty is also included during the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Pros

• Attractive standard features
• Unique styling
• Capable handling and comfortable ride
• Fun-to drive turbo engine

Cons

• Expensive for its class
• Poor fuel economy

The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle comes with a bit of a traditional Beetle look that will definitely appeal to most Beetle enthusiasts. After being redesigned, the Beetle adds a modern look that is likely to attract new customers looking for affordable small cars.

Competition will come from the FIAT 500 (MSRP $15,500; 31 city / 40 hwy), and the Mini Cooper (MSRP $19,500; 29 city / 37 hwy), but none of these cars matches the Beetle’s 170 horsepower, with the exception of the Scion tC (MSRP $18,725; 23 city / 31 hwy). The 2012 Beetle also comes with bigger cargo space than its rivals.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Hatchback versatility; interior sophistication; supple ride; good fuel economy…Competitors are quicker and handle better; lack of interior storage.” Edmunds

“A classic 2+2, the 2012 Volkswagen Beetle has lots of head and elbow room, but rear leg and trunk room are still a bit skimpy.” Car Connection

“Even the Base and 2.5L models exhibit only moderate body lean in fast turns along with good steering feel and response. Turbos move handling up a notch for a sportier driving feel.” Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is all-new with a design that looks back to the original Beetle but moves to the future with a bolder, more dynamic design.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Our driving experience with the 2012 Beetle was pleasure with a bit of puzzlement. Pleasure, because it does everything well: The steering is direct and responsive, and the overall behavior is completely stable, predictable and even refined. Puzzlement, because we had hoped for this newest iteration of VW’s Beetle to have the quick reflexes and enjoyable dynamics of one of our all-time favorites, the Volkswagen GTI.” KBB