The 2012 Volkswagen GTI is a top ranked high-performance, luxury compact offered as a 2-door or 4-door hatchback. The GTI receives attention because of its overall fun demeanor, conservative styling, and attention to detail.

This hatchback is now available with an optional Autobahn package, focusing on interior upgrades.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback 2Dr	Base Price: $23,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55l)	MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 165.9 in. (421.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.5 in. (257.8 cm)
Height: 57.8 in. (146.8 cm)	Width: 70 in. (177.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3034 lbs (1376 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.0 in. (12.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline-4 Turbo DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1
Horsepower: 200 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2DR w/ Conv & Sunroof	MSRP: $26,375; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:2DR w/ Sunroof & Nav	MSRP: $27,945; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:2DR Autobahn	MSRP: $29,995; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:4DR	MSRP: $24,595; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:4DR w/ Conv & Sunroof	MSRP: $26,975; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:4DR w/ Sunroof & Nav	MSRP: $28,545; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:4DR Autobahn	MSRP: $30,595; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy

Engine & Performance

Although the 2012 VW GTI is not considered as the most nimble or fastest car in its class, it offers good handling, power, and smooth on-road performance; making it a great option for regular commuter usage.

The GTI is fitted with a 2.0L turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that makes 200 hp and 207 lbs-ft of torque. This engine comes with a 6-speed manual gearbox or with the optional 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DSG) with manual shifter. A DSG- GTI gets 24/33 mpg city/highway, while the manual gets 21/31 mpg city/highway. This car’s handling receives a lot of praise for being responsive and precise.

Drivers will appreciate the electronic limited slip control-system that helps in control wheel spin at sharp turns.

Exterior

The GTI is based on the Golf and comes with well executed styling that makes it sleek and angular. The VW GTI is available in 2 main trim levels: the base and the Autobahn. The base models come with standard features that include: rear roof spoiler, heated outside mirrors, sport suspension, 18-inch alloy wheels and fog lights.

Optional features for this trim are: sunroof, LED running lights and adaptive xenon headlamps. Stepping to the top-of the-range Autobahn, you will get all optional features in the base model, different 18-inch wheels as well as keyless entry.

Interior

The 2012 GTI clearly shows Volkswagen’s priority for comfort and style by offering a well thought out cabin. Driver and front passenger seats are among the best in its class, with fabric featuring a plaid pattern that pays tribute to VW fabric design from previous years.

All seats offer enough leg and head-room even for tall people regardless whether the car has the optional sunroof. Base trim comes with heated front seats, while higher trims get a power driver-seat. Standard interior features include: satellite radio, iPod connectivity, 8-speaker stereo, Bluetooth and auxiliary input jack.

Optional features include Dynaudio premium sound system, navigation system, touch-screen Premium VIII sound system and push-start button. Both 2-door and 4-door models come with a cargo space of 15.2 cubic ft, which can be increased by to 46 cubic ft by folding the rear sears.

Safety & Reliability

The safety of the occupants has not been compromised in the 2012 GTI, especially due to the inclusion of many standard safety features. These features include Driver and front passenger airbags, front seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, rear head airbags, brake assist, electronic stability control, child safety locks, integrated turn signal mirrors, emergency trunk release, 4-wheel ABS and traction control.

All new GTIs are backed with a limited warranty lasting for 3 years or 36,000 miles, as well as an engine warranty for the first 5 years or 60,000 miles. Rust damages are covered by a warranty lasting for 12 years. Owners will also enjoy a free scheduled maintenance and 24-hour road assistance during the first 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Pros

• Upscale cabin and comfortable seats
• Good balance of sport and everyday drivability
• Top-notch fuel economy
• Hatchback versatility

Cons

• Stereo is low when connected to an iPod
• Confusing climate control
• Slower than competition

If you are shopping for an upscale small car, you better not look any further. The 2012 Volkswagen GTI is the car that will not only provide you with serious driving-enthusiast appeal, but also spacious interior and premium compact build quality.

The 5-seater will face competition from Subaru Impreza WRX (MSRP $25,795; 19 city / 25 hwy), the Mini Cooper S (MSRP $24,600; 27 city / 35 hwy), the Honda Civic Coupe (MSRP $22,355; 22 city / 31 hwy), and the Mazdaspeed3 (MSRP $24,200; 18 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“Unique styling; powerful and efficient turbo engine; high-class interior; capable handling and comfortable ride; well-equipped; more space than kitschy competitors…Inefficient and unrefined base engine; less space than more sensible competitors.” Edmunds

“It isn’t the fastest or flashiest sporty hatchback around, but the 2012 Volkswagen GTI may well be the most balanced, carrying forward its legacy into the 21st century.”Car Connection

“GTI is among the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars. It has outstanding grip in fast turns with quick, precise steering. The brakes deliver worry-free stops, though one test example suffered from a touchy pedal.”Consumer Guide

“The GTI is one of the best performing and most practical choices among affordable sporty cars. It is agile and quick, with a gutsy, turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder that sounds good.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“…VW’s GTI receives a new variant – GTI with Convenience and Sunroof – which groups together some of the most popular stand-alone options.”KBB

The 2012 Suzuki Equator is a compact pickup truck that is based on the Nissan Frontier. Although this is not a luxury model, it has an RMZ-4 off-road package for better performance in all weather conditions.

This truck is fitted with several high-tech features such as electronic rear-locking differential, moon-roof, and skid plates among others. It will compete against rivals with enough to spare.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Equator RWD	Base Price: $22,949.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80l)	MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 206.6 in. (524.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 125.9 in. (319.7 cm)
Height: 68.7 in. (174.5 cm)	Width: 72.8 in. (184.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3686 lbs (1672 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.6 in. (19.3 cm)
Cargo Bed Capacity: 33.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 3 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1
Horsepower: 152 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed AT
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Comfort Package	MSRP: $24,049; MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy
Option:Sport 4.0L V6 4WD	MSRP: $26,449; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Equator uses a 2.5L inline 4 engine that generates 152 hp and 171 lbs-ft of torque. Customers can also opt for the 4.0L V6 powertrain that produces 261 hp and 281 lbs-ft of torque. The 4-cylinder is only available in the lower trim extended-cab models, while the V6 is only offered in the crew cabs and 4WD models.

The V6 comes with standard 5-speed automatic transmission, while 4-cylinder engines come connected to a 5-speed manual gearbox. Rear-drive extended cabs with the 4-cylinder engine nets a fuel economy estimate of 17/22 mpg city/highway. On the other hand, a 4WD equipped with the V6 gets a fuel economy of 15/19 mpg city/highway. The 2012 Equator also gets kudos for its towing capabilities. A 2-wheel drive equator can tow up to 3,500 pounds, while a 4WD can haul up to 6,300 lbs. A V6-equipped Sport model can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 8.0 seconds.

Exterior

This pickup truck is offered in crew cab and extended body styles. The extended cabs are available in 4 trim levels: base, Comfort package, premium and the Sport. Crew cabs are offered in Sport and RMZ-4 trims. The Equator can be distinguished through the Suzuki badge mounted on the honeycomb 3-bar grille. The tailgate, bumpers, hood, front fenders and the grille are exclusive to Suzuki.

The base and Comfort package trims are fitted with 15-inch steel wheels, the premium is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels, while the Sport is equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels. Depending on the body style and the trim you choose, you can get a 5 or 6-foot bed.

Interior

This pickup truck comes with an interior that is more practical and comfortable. The crew cab models can accommodate 5 passengers, while the extended cab models can fit up to 4 people. Just like in any other compact pickup truck, you won’t find many standard interior features in the Equator.

However, all trims come with a center console and bucket seats. Optional features include: air conditioning, Rockford Fosgate 6-CD stereo, sub-woofer, Bluetooth, and MP3 jack connectivity.

Safety & Reliability

The Suzuki Equator receives a lot of praise for its safety features. They include: active limited-slip traction control, hill descent control, anti-lock brakes, side-impact airbags for the front-seats, side curtain airbags, active head restraints, electronic stability and traction control, brake assist and 4-wheel ABS. Customers will also be pleased by the long warranty backing this pickup truck.

The Equator is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 miles limited warranty as well as the respectable 7-year or 100,000 miles engine warranty.

Pros

• Long warranty
• Practical, durable interior
• Competitive towing capacity
• Capable V6 performance

Cons

• Cramped rear seats.
• Regular-cab body style not available
• Few standard features

The 2012 Suzuki Equator is great for a compact pickup truck that comes with options that are appealing to off-road enthusiasts. With the V6 engine to go with a generous list of safety features and warranty, the Equator is one step ahead of its rivals.

Competition

Other pick up trucks such as the Chevrolet Colorado (MSRP $24,285; 18 city / 25 hwy) and Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $22,425; 19 city / 24 hwy) can be compared to the features the Equator offers, depending on your needs.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“Handling is nicely balanced for a pickup truck. The steering feels weighty and direct, but is slow to react in tight turns and parking spots. Body lean is evident in corners. RMZ-4’s tall build makes it feel a bit more tippy, though it never feels uncontrolled. The RMZ-4 also suffers from a very large turning radius, which is problematic in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“The Suzuki Equator is a rebadged Nissan Frontier that shares a platform with the Pathfinder and Xterra. We found the Frontier quick and nimble, with a stiff, though tolerable ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Suzuki Equator is one of the more capable midsize pickups on the market, but Suzuki’s limited dealer network should be considered before you commit to a purchase.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Suzuki Equator is a truck pretty much like any other in its class.”KBB

After the Anadi received warm welcome and entered production; Ugur Sahin has proudly unveiled the 2012 Ugur Sahin Alfa Romeo 12C GTS concept car. Ugur Sahin aims to give a new interpretation to the legendary Alfa Romeo lines.

If you think that the Alfa Romeos that you have seen before are eye catching, the concept car is stunning.

Engine

There are barely any details about how the 12C GTS will be powered. But since it draws inspiration from Alfa Romeo’s 8C, experts predict that it might just get the same powertrain. That would be the 4.7 liter V8 engine that delivers 444 horsepower and 354 lbs/ft of torque. The engine is paired with a six-speed robotized gearbox to provide smoother shifting and smooth performance.

Performance

Based on the specs of the 8C, the Ugur Sahin Design (USD) Alfa Romeo 12C GTS is projected to have a top speed of 181 mph. It can reach a quarter mile within 12.4 seconds, and it can run from a standstill to 62 mph in just 4.2 seconds. Since there are possibilities for Alfa Romeo to update its engine, there are great chances that the concept car can do better.

Exterior

What is the most exciting about the 12C GTS is the updated design from Ugur Sahin. The surface, the styling cues and the historical lines are given a fresh perspective that, according to the designer, imparts a state of mind. The new 12C GTS has sharper lines, yet the familiar organic characteristics that you loved about the Alfa Romeo still remains.

Even if the car is standing still, you can sense the “forward movement” exuded by its stance. The organic lines flow from front to rear with hardly any disruptions, making the car look whole. In their center is the iconic Alfa Romeo grille. From the side, your eyes can see the proportional balance as well as the seamless lines that divide the upper and lower parts of the car.

Pros

Great car concepts can get even greater once the production is finished. The Ugur Sahin Alfa has top of the class looks and performance. You can also expect the car to have luxurious interiors. Putting things in the cabin with low-quality is simply not reasonable. The 2012 12C GTS is worthy of being included in your collection.

Cons

Supercars have very little flaws. If there were any, that would mainly be the price. It is yet to unveiled because right now, Ugur Sahin is looking for willing investors to make this car concept possible. And if that is, you will definitely have another car that is one of a kind.

As soon as the car finds generous patrons, the manufacturer will start production. If the 2012 Ugur Sahin Design Alfa Romeo 12C GTS made your heart beat faster, you might just need to follow it.

The 2012 Volvo C30 is a luxury compact that is part chiseled hatchback and part sporty coupe. All in all, it will be spearheading Volvo’s appeal to style-conscious and performance-minded people.

As a hatchback, the C30 exudes a modern flair combined with safety and quality performance Volvo has been known for. The turbo-charged engine delivers enough miles on a full tank to enjoy the countryside for a whole day.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $25,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60l)	MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 167.4 in. (425.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263.9 cm)
Height: 57 in. (144.7 cm)	Width: 70.2 in. (178.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3211 lbs (1456 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 12.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Inline-5 Turbo DOHC	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 227 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500-5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:R-Design

MSRP: $27,850; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy

Engine & Performance

A standard 2.5L turbocharged inline-5 engine that generates 227 hp and 236 lbs-ft of torque, is used to power the 2012 C30. This engine is paired with a 6-speed manual gearbox, although you may opt for the 5-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting function.

The C30 with the auto transmission gives you 21 mpg city and 30 mpg highway. On the other hand, when it is equipped with the manual transmission, you will get 21/29 mpg city/highway. A manual-equipped Volvo C30 can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in remarkable 6.4 seconds. The automatic transmission enables the C30 to do the same in 6.9 seconds. Owners will also be delighted by the C30’s nimble handling as well as its strong braking system.

Exterior

The 2012 Volvo C30 is available in 6 trims, expanded from the 2 models offered in 2011. This is because of the addition of Platinum and Premium Plus trim for the base T5 and T5 R-Design. The T5 models are fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, while the T5 R-Design models come with 18-inch wheels.

The T5 Premium trims are fitted with exterior features that include LED daytime lights and power glass sunroof. The R-Design adds extra features that include special front grille design and color-coordinated exterior trim. Optional features on all trims comprises: adaptive xenon high-intensity-discharge headlights, rain sensing wipers, and headlight washers.

Interior

The C30’s cabin is not only well equipped but also made with high quality materials. All seats offer ample head and legroom, especially the front seats that make it more comfortable and spacious even for tall passengers.

Standard features in all trims of the C30 are; HD radio, Bluetooth, USB port for iPods, auxiliary port, trip computer, cloth seats, audio system and steering wheel-mounted audio controls. The dash is made of metallic trim and it is mounted on an ultra-thin center panel that houses climate controls.

A navigation system with real-time traffic data and an upgraded stereo are offered as optional features on all trims. This compact has a cargo capacity of 12.9 cubic feet that can be increased to 20.2 cubic ft after folding down the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

The C30 is equipped with standard safety features for maximum safety of the occupants, with Volvo, you shouldn’t expect anything else. These features consist of: active front head restraints, side impact and side curtain airbags, driver and front passenger airbags, electronic stability control, traction control, 4-wheel disc antilock brakes and brake assist.

The 2012 C30 is protected against wear-and-tear through a limited warranty lasting the first 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. In addition, owners are given a factory-scheduled-maintenance during the first 5 years, as well as 24-hour road assistance through the same period regardless of mileage.

Pros

• Stylish exterior
• Plenty of standard safety features
• Firm yet compliant ride
• Spirited turbocharged drive train
• Supportive and comfortable front seats

Cons

• Outdated navigation system
• Rivals offer more performance
• Limited cargo space
• Confusing interior controls

The 2012 Volvo C30 is a two-door offering a fun-to-drive experience, while maintaining a good grip on the turns and gives you precise steering. This car has many standard safety features, fuel efficiency is commendable; making it a great deal for people shopping for small cars that can handle weekly commutes easily.

This 4-seater is based on the Volvo S40 sedan, and it will compete against other premium cars like the Mini Cooper (MSRP $30,100; 26 city / 35 hwy), the Subaru Impreza WRX (MSRP $25,795; 19 city / 25 hwy), and the Volkswagen Golf R (MSRP $33,990; 19 city / 27 hwy).

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Distinctive styling; firm yet compliant ride; supportive yet comfortable front seats; spirited turbocharged engine…Rivals offer more performance; behind-the-times navigation system.” Edmunds

“The 2012 Volvo C30 has top-notch safety and style; but it’s not as racy as it looks and not any more practical than it looks.” Car Connection

“C30 has good grip and balance overall, though fast turns can induce minor noseplow. Some testers find the steering a bit vague on center, though it has positive turn-in feedback. Brakes are strong and responsive.” Consumer Guide

“The Volvo C30 is a pleasant two-door, four-seat hatchback. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine that delivered good performance and 25 mpg overall.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Volvo C30 is quick, but not blazing-fast. Still, with a stated 0-60 mph time of about six-and-a-half seconds, the C30 has absolutely no problem getting up to speed on the freeway.” KBB

The 2012 Lamborghini Aventador is a 2-door, high performance exotic sports car. This supercar replaces the Murcièlago as Lamborghini’s flagship, is faster and lighter than its precursor.

The lightweight Aventador comes from a redesigned drive line and the use of carbon fiber that reduces 200 pounds from its normal weight. When the lightweight materials are combined with the sophisticated engineering, aircraft inspired design, and engine power, the Aventador offers an unmatched driving experience.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Supercar	Base Price: $387,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons (90 l)	MPG: 11 city / 17 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.1 in. (478 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 44.7 in. (113.6 cm)	Width: 79.9 in. (203 cm)
Curb Weight: 3472 lbs (1575 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 6.5L V12 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.8: 1
Horsepower: 700 HP	Max RPM: 8250 RPM
Torque: 507 lb-ft @ 5500 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed ISR
0-60 mph: 2.6 seconds	Maximum Speed: 217 mph (349 km/h)

Engine & Performance

The Lamborghini Aventador is powered by a 6.5 liter V12 engine that produces 690 horsepower and 509 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mounted on a 7-speed automated manual transmission. The gearbox features 3 different operating modes: Sport, Strada, and Corsa.

The Aventador is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in 2.9 seconds. The fuel economy of the Aventador is 17 mpg while on highway and 11 mpg in the city. This supercar is fitted with a suspension system similar to those in Formula 1 race cars. When this suspension is combined with the all wheel drive, the Aventador is able to take turns smoothly even at very high speeds.

Exterior

The Aventador comes in a single trim level with standard exterior features that include: 19 inch front wheels and 20 inch back wheels, high performance tires, LED running lights, and bi-xenon headlights.

Among its striking features are the carbon-fiber monocoque doors that open upward. All in all, it is designed in an incredible dynamic sculpture all the way through, from the low roofline, to the distinctive rear diffuser, and to the sharply polished front end.

Interior

On the inside, although it can only accommodate two people, it is spacious and combines Italian craftsmanship with modern technology. To start with, the interior is dominated by a next-generation dash-board, the instrument panel is located on a TFT-LCD screen. There is another screen dedicated to the navigation system and the standard-fit multimedia system.

Other notable features include: Bluetooth, iPod interface, real time traffic system and leather upholstery. Optional features are: rear and front packing sensors, heated power seats, upgraded sound system and multifunction steering wheel.

Safety & Reliability

This high performance car is fitted with several safety features, to enhance the safety of the occupants during a ride. Standard safety features include: driver and passenger airbags, side head airbag and side airbag, 4-wheel disc brakes, knee airbags, traction and stability control, and rear drum brakes.

The reliability is backed by a 3 -year or unlimited mileage warranty. Lamborghini also offers road assistance and warranty for the engine during the same period.

Pros

• Remarkable visual presence
• Surprisingly spacious cabin
• Vicious acceleration
• Sublime steering
• Powerful V12 engine & great handling
• Attractive interior

Cons

• Expensive
• Limited headroom for tall drivers.
• Poor outward visibility.
• Limited cargo space.

It is rather difficult to summarize the driving experience of the 2012 Lamborghini Aventador which is ranked the overall best exotic sports car. All features are above par, from the sporty exterior to the high performing powertrain.

What others say:

“The 2012 Lamborghini Aventador replaces the Murcielago as the company’s flagship sports car.”Consumer Guide

“The Lamborghini Aventador is Lamborghini’s new flagship supercar powered by a 700-horsepower 6.5-liter V12 engine mated with Lamborghini’s innovative ISR transmission.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“There is nothing subtle about the 2012 Lamborghini Aventador and that description includes the ride. Underpinned by a Formula One-style racing suspension, the Aventador’s shock absorbers are rock hard”KBB

“Vicious acceleration; sublime steering; incredible handling; unmatched visual presence; surprisingly spacious cabin…Ride can be intolerable at times; poor outward visibility; tough to maneuver in tight places; limited cargo space.”Edmunds