The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG has become a legend in just a few years after it was released.

It has been updated by Inden Design, introducing the 2012 Inden Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG.

This car is more than just a combination of well-known names because it brings the best updates that a car would ever have.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gallons (85L)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 182.6 in. (463.8 cm)	Wheelbase: 105.5 in. (267.9 cm)
Height: 49.7 in. (126.2 cm)	Width: 76.3 in. (193.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 6.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: V8 DOHC	Displacement: 6.2 liters
Horsepower: 623 HP	Max RPM: NA
Torque: NA	Transmission: 7-Speed Speedshift
0-60 mph: 3.7 secs*	Top Speed: 197 mph (317 km/h)*

*Base SLS AMG

Engine

The Inden Design SLS AMG has a 6.2 liter V8, Inden-updated engine that delivers 623 horsepower. That is quite a great improvement from the base 571 horsepower that you get from its stock engine. Inden design did it by optimizing the ECU of the high performance 8-cylinder powertrain.

Performance

Definitely, the performance of the Inden Design SLS AMG has greatly improved. The improvement is not because of the engine alone but also because of the new wheels, suspension tuning and the updated body.

Acceleration is stronger and smoother while the handling provides a nimbler and tighter feel. Whether you are on the highway or in the back alleys of a busy city, the Inden Design SLS AMG performs as you want it to.

Exterior

Inden Design has put 21″ light metal rims as well as the same curved fenders of a sports car. Inden Design also updated the coil over kit for the SLS AMG resulting to a lower clearance that provides better handling performance in tight curves.

Interior

The interior of the car has the same posh qualities of the stock SLS AMG, since Inden Design focused on the engine and other performance parts such as the suspension and the wheels. Nevertheless, you will get the same interior quality that the base SLS AMG provides.

Pros

It is more stylish and faster than the stock SLS AMG. If you are looking for ways to update your supercar, experts such as Inden Design are willing to lend a hand. The Inden Design SLS AMG is more super than the base SLS AMG supercar.

Cons

The primary drawback to updated supercars is the price. To get your Mercedes Benz SLS AMG running with more than 600 horsepower, you must be willing to spend a considerable amount of cash.

In performance and in style, it is indeed hard to top the Inden Design Mercedes Benz. The 2012 Inden Design Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG is a true work of art worthy of your garage.

The 2012 Volkswagen Routan is a competent minivan, based on 2 minivans built by Chrysler corporation: Dodge Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Town & Country.

New features for the 2012 edition include a push start button and rain-sensing windshield wipers. The SEL Premium now comes with blind spot warning system. This 7-seater minivan will compete against the likes of the Toyota Sienna, Nissan Quest and Honda Odyssey.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Minivan	Base Price: $27,020.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.5 gallons (77l)	MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.5 in. (514.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 121.2 in. (307.8 cm)
Height: 68.9 in. (175 cm)	Width: 76.9 in. (195.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 4494 lbs (2038 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 83 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.6L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10:02: 01
Horsepower: 283 HP	Max RPM: 6350 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic w/ Manual Mode

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SE	MSRP: $32,010; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SE w/ RSE Camera System	MSRP: $33,490; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SE w/ RSE & Nav	MSRP: $34,490; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SEL	MSRP: $37,890; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SEL w/ RSE	MSRP: $39,890; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SEL Premium	MSRP: $44,280; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Routan is a competent performer, with decent power combined with a satisfying ride. It comes with a 3.6L V6 powertrain that produces 283 horsepower and 260 lbs-ft of torque. The engine is paired to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission.

Volkswagen tuned the Routan’s steering and suspension for a sportier ride. The addition of an Eco dashboard button that optimizes shift points for the auto, results to better gas mileage. A properly equipped Routan is capable of hauling up to 3,600 pounds. This minivan gets a fuel economy estimated at 17 mpg in cities and 25 mpg on highways. The Routan can go from 0 to 60 mph in 8.3 seconds.

Exterior

The 2012 Routan comes with a boxy shape similar to the Grand Caravan’s, although its face comes with Volkswagen’s lower air dam and a sloping grille. This minivan is available in 4 trim levels: S, SE, SEL and the SEL Premium. The base mode is fitted with 16-inch steel wheel, power rear-vent windows, heated mirrors and keyless entry. Stepping up to the SE, you will get 17-inch alloy wheels, upgraded exterior trim, roof rack, auto-dimming rearview mirror, and power-sliding side doors.

Moving up to the SEL trim, you get a sunroof, automatic headlights, rain sensing windshield wipers and keyless entry. Meanwhile, the SEL Premium trim gets fog lights, xenon headlights, chrome exterior trim and auto-dimming exterior mirrors.

Interior

Volkswagen has dressed the Routan adequately, with the seats offering more comfort than those of Chrysler minivans. The dashboard mounts 2 distinct layers separated by metallic trim. Standard features on all trims include: a third row that drops flat onto the floor, a removable second-row captains seats that fold onto themselves, and a redesigned multifunction steering column.

This minivan comes with respectable cargo space of 83 cubic feet after folding the third row. The space reaches a maximum of 144.4 cubic feet after removing the second and third row seats.

Safety & Reliability

Side impact airbags for the front seats and driver’s knee airbags are part of the Routan’s standard safety features. This brings the total to 7 standard airbags that include: driver and front passenger airbags, side head airbags and rear head airbags. Other safety features are: child safety locks, traction control, brake assist, electronic stability control, 4-wheel ABS, daytime running lights and 4-wheel disc brakes.

Volkswagen backs the Routan with a 3-year and 36,000 miles limited warranty, as well as 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty. A carefree maintenance program, covering all scheduled maintenance is included during the first 3 years or 36,000 miles. This program has 24-hour road assistance.

Pros

• Handsome interior and exterior styling
• More seat comfort that Chrysler minivans

Cons

• Lacks second-row seat versatility
• Limited driver legroom

Recap

The 2012 Volkswagen Routan comes with a firmer suspension tuning that gives it better handling than its rivals. People looking for a minivan, should include this vehicle for serious consideration, especially because of its stylish interior and pleasant exterior. Those having a need for business related transportation will appreciate the versatility of this minivan.

Competition

First it was the iconic “Bus”, then the “Vanagon”, both standards for minivans from VW’s illustrious past. The Routan joins the likes of the Honda Odyssey (MSRP $28,375; 18 city / 27 hwy), Nissan Quest (MSRP $34,500; 19 city / 24 hwy), and the Toyota Sienna (MSRP $25,060; 19 city / 24 hwy).

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Comfortable seats; slightly nicer cabin than Chrysler siblings…Lacks second-row seat versatility; limited driver legroom; Chrysler mechanicals serviced by Volkswagen mechanics.”Edmunds

“The Volkswagen Routan isn’t very different from the Chrysler minivans–and that means top safety performance and features, with a little less than best-in-class flexibility.”Car Connection

“Following its model-year 2011 freshening, the 2012 Routan sees minor trim changes. Newly standard on the SEL are rain-sensing wipers and keyless access/engine start. Blind-spot alert and rear cross-path detection are newly standard on the SEL Premium.”Consumer Guide

“Despite its name, the Routan is a version of the Chrysler Town & Country. High points include a pleasant ride, Chrysler’s new smooth and refined V6, and a quiet cabin.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“…the Routan comports itself on the road in a manner no 1967 Microbus ever dreamed of doing.”KBB

The 2012 Subaru Outback is a top ranked wagon, which is considered to be one of the most safe, practical and useful vehicles available in the market. Just like other Subaru’s, it is equipped with an AWD system, to enable it to compete against rivals.

The Outback will attract the attention of many customers because of its attractive and roomy cabin, and generous cargo space.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon AWD	Base Price: $23,295.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70l)	MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189 in. (480 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.9 in. (274 cm)
Height: 65.8 in. (167.1 cm)	Width: 71.7 in. (182.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3423 lbs (1553 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 34.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC SUBARU Boxer®	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 173 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 174 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Max Towing Capacity: 2700 lbs (1225 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2.5i PZEV CVT	MSRP: $23,595; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:2.5i Premium	MSRP: $24,795; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:2.5i Premium PZEV	MSRP: $25,095; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:3.6R – 3.6L 6 Cylinder A/T	MSRP: $28,295; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:2.5i Limited	MSRP: $28,695; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:2.5i Limited PZEV	MSRP: $28,995; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:3.6R Premium – 3.6L 6 Cylinder A/T	MSRP: $29,495; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:3.6R Limited – 3.6L 6 Cylinder A/T	MSRP: $31,695; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

Under the hood is a 2.5 L 4-cylinder engine that generates 170 hp and 170 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is connected to a standard 6-speed manual transmission, although a CVT is offered as an option, a 2.5L engine combined with the manual transmission gets a fuel economy estimate of 19 mpg city and 27 mpg highway. When this engine is paired with the CVT, it nets a fuel economy if 22/29 mpg city/highway.

3.6R models are fitted with 3.6L 6-cylinder engine that produces 256 horsepower and 247 lbs-ft of torque. A 5-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles, enables this model to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 7.3 seconds. This engine nets 18/25 mph city/highway.

Exterior

This 5-passenger wagon is available in 6 trim levels including: 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, 3.6R Premium, 2.5i Limited, 3.6R Limited and 3.6R. This wagon comes with an 8.7 inches ground clearance, making its stance to be taller than most wagons. The 2.5i model comes with standard 16-inch steel wheels, while the rest of the trims are fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels.

The Outback can be distinguished from the Legacy due to its prominent bumper and body side moldings. Standard exterior features found on the 2.5i model include: automatic headlights, keyless entry, and roof rack rails. The 2.5i premium adds fog lights, rear privacy mirror, body-color mirrors, and fog lights to its stylish exterior.

Interior

This wagon receives a lot of praise for its comfortable, useful and roomy cabin. All seats are very comfortable, with enough leg and head room even for tall people. All trims come with standard interior features that include: power door locks and windows, auxiliary audio input jack and tilt/telescoping steering column with cruise and audio control buttons.

Depending on the model, you can also get other features like: dual zone climate control, heated seats, power driver’s seat, wood trim, Premium audio system with a 4.3 inches LCD display, leather upholstery, HD radio, and a moon-roof. This wagon offers a cargo space of 34.3 cubic ft behind the rear seats, but that can be increased to 71.3 cubic ft after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

The Outback is well equipped with safety features to guarantee the safety of the occupants during a ride or in the event of a collision. These features are: driver and front passenger airbags, rear head airbag, side head airbag, side curtain airbags, electronic stability control, daytime running lights, child safety locks, 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist and 4-wheel ABS.

Subaru provides new Outback owners with a 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty, in addition to the 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty. In the first 36,000 miles or 3 years, customers also benefit from road assistance plan.

Pros

• SUV-like utility
• AWD can handle slick road conditions
• Comfortable and composed ride
• Simple controls on lower trims
• Strong safety record

Cons

• Poor base stereo
• Fussy controls on upper trims
• Lacks agility

The 2012 Subaru Outback serves as an alternative to traditional crossovers. Many customers and people shopping for affordable wagons will go for this car due to its spacious cabin, many trim levels and its performance capabilities in all weather conditions.

Competition

The Outback is higher priced, but it can be compared to the likes of the VW Jetta Sportswagen (MSRP $20,395; 23 city / 33 hwy), the Mini Cooper Countryman (MSRP $21,750; 27 city / 35 hwy), and the lower priced Dodge Caliber (MSRP $17,380; 24 city / 32 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“Like any all-around athlete, the 2012 Subaru Outback blends capable performance and rewarding handling, surprising interior volume and great versatility, with versatility and enough high-end options to keep most buyers quite happy.” Car Connection

“Outbacks have linear, predictable steering. Some body lean is present, but on the road these Subarus behave more like a car than an SUV. During light off-road duty on dirt trails and rutted gravel roads, Outback remains confident and sure footed. Brakes are strong with good pedal feel.” Consumer Guide

“The Outback is a more rugged-looking wagon version of the Legacy. While the body proportions are still wagon-like, the Outback’s ground clearance is comparable to an SUV’s. The cabin is quiet, and rear-seat and cargo space are generous.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“On the road, the Outback demonstrates an impressive sedan-like feel, in part because the low center of gravity of its powertrain more than offsets its tall bodywork.” KBB

“The 2012 Subaru Outback is an appealing alternative to conventional wagons and crossovers.” Edmunds

With Italian and German influences collaborating, BMW has designed an aerodynamically optimized car, which is able to reach the high speeds of a sports car, yet is also comfortable for everyday driving.

The style of the Zagato reflects on what has worked previously, and adds mystique onto the trim lines, to the perfection of the exterior paint. While BMW has been quiet about the specifications, the Zagato Coupe has a familiar look, with a touch of Italian inspiration and technology.

Exterior

The 2012 BMW Zagato Coupe is a hand-built, aluminum body, with an elongated hood. The air intakes are integrated with the hood, which sends extra air to the engine. The grill is highlighted with “Zs” in its mesh in an intricate, classy design, portraying the name.

The rear of the car is formed in almost a single joint. The rear displays an upper transparent panel, and the three-section look uses dark-colored glass surfaces to open up the interior, creating a wider-open look.

The rear bumper is fed into a large diffuser, ending with tail pipes in matte finish. This gives the Zagato an aggressive and sportier look. The body rests on 19 inch, 5-spoke, alloy wheels, with a propeller-type look, and matte finish.

Two domes are built into the roof structure, this is a signature Zagato design, and provide greater headroom. This design also increases the car’s aerodynamics, and the roof’s rigidity.

Interior

Zagato has highlighted the instrument panel and doors with horizontal lines, creating a roomier and sportier look. The form-fitting seats of grey material, have contrasting red stitching and accents.

The remarkable craftsmanship of the team is displayed, and the letter “Z” is embroidered in red at the top of the seat. The interior is definitely sporty, and the attention to detail is pure class.

Zagato Paint Mystique

The exterior body begins with a coat of black paint. A second coat of metallic silver is then applied, followed by six extremely thin coats of red paint which was especially developed for the Zagato.

It is then sealed with two clear layers, for protection and resilience. The mystique is that this paint can reflect the light in such a way, as to appear from almost a black color, to a brilliant red color, depending on how the light hits the paint.

The broad and low appearance of the 2012 Zagato Coupe, allows for a very powerful and solid road stance.

It is built to go fast, yet meets all normal road requirements. For more information on the Zagato, watch for the upcoming BMW press releases on specifications, and pre-order availability dates.

The 2012 Volkswagen Passat has been redesigned to reflect VW’s bolder and bigger styling direction. The Passat offers smooth rides and can accommodate a family of five comfortably. This car boasts one of the most spacious and comfortable interior in its class.

The cabin comes in a simple design, with a solid build, quality, and upscale materials. For 2012, the Passat is available in 3 engine choices, after last year’s 2.0L turbo powertrain was discontinued.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $20,845.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.6 in. (486.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.4 in. (280.4 cm)
Height: 58.5 in. (148.5 cm)	Width: 72.2 in. (183.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3166 lbs (1436 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.4 in. (13.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 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

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SE	MSRP: $23,945; MPG: 21 city / 32 hwy
Option:SEL A/T	MSRP: $28,925; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:SE 3.6L V6	MSRP: $29,235; MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy
Option:TDI® SE 2.0L Diesel	MSRP: $26,225; MPG: 31 city / 43 hwy
Option:SE 3.6L V6 Premium	MSRP: $33,525; MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy

Engine & Performance

The VW Passat is offered in 3 powertrain and 4 transmission choices. The entry level engine is a 2.5L inline 5-cylinder that generates 170 hp and 177 lbs-ft of torque. This engine comes with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed automatic. With the manual transmission, it gets a fuel economy of 22/32 mpg city/highway, while with the automatic it gets 22/31 mpg city/highway.

Stepping up to the mid-level powertrain, you get a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder that produces 140 hp and 236 lbs-ft of torque. This engine can be combined with the standard 6-speed manual or the optional 6-speed DSG automated manual transmission. The manual transmission gets 31/43 mpg, while the DSG gets 30/40 mpg city/highway.

Lastly comes the 3.6L V6, which produces 280 hp and 258 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is paired to a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox. The combination enables the Passat to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, and get a fuel economy of 20/28 mpg city/highway.

Exterior

The 2012 Passat is available in 3 main trim levels broken down by drive trains (2.5L, TDI, and 3.6L). These are further divided into 3 sub-trim levels: S, SE and the SEL. The redesigned exterior comes with sharp lines running from front to the rear end, replacing the soft lines of the outgoing Passat.

The S trim (2.5L only) is fitted with 16-inch steel wheels, while the SE model comes with 17-inch alloy wheels. SE also comes with standard chrome trim, and optional features like sunroof, fog lights, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The SEL premium package adds keyless entry and fog lights to its exterior features.

Interior

Customers will most likely be pleased by the Passat’s interior, which is not only spacious but also made of upscale materials. All seats are very comfortable, offering plenty of legroom that edges on full-size sedan class. The base model is fitted with fabric seats, but the higher models come with leatherette seating surfaces.

An 8-power adjustable driver-seat, as well as heated front-seats is standard on SE models. Stepping up to the SEL trim, you will get power lumbar-support driver seat, while SEL Premium and the TDI SEL Premium come with leather-trimmed seats with faux-suede inserts.

Standard interior features on all models include: Bluetooth, power locks and power windows, dual-zone climate control and auxiliary audio input. Higher trims come with upgraded features like, sunroof, satellite radio; leather wrapped steering column and shift knob, navigation system, Fender premium audio-system, push button start, touch screen display, and iPod integration.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 VW Passat is fitted with safety features that include: emergency trunk release, 4-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, traction control, 4-wheel ABS, child safety locks, and 6 airbags including the driver and front passenger airbags.

All new Passat’s are covered by a bumper-to-bumper warranty for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles as well as 60,000 miles or 5-years of engine warranty. Corrosion perforation warranty is offered for the first 12 years. Customers will also appreciate the free scheduled maintenance offered by VW for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Pros

• Fuel efficient diesel powertrain option
• Spacious interior
• Standard dual-zone climate control and Bluetooth
• Refined ride
• High quality cabin

Cons

• Bland exterior design
• Below average braking distance
• Underpowered base engine

The redesigned 2012 Volkswagen Passat is a car that many shoppers will most likely put on top of their to-buy-list. This car combines interior quality and driving dynamics with comfort, roominess and affordable value that most customers are searching for.

The Passat can compete against other midsize sedans like Toyota Camry (MSRP $22,055; 25 city / 35 hwy), the Nissan Altima (MSRP $21,500; 27 city / 38 hwy), and Honda Accord (MSRP $21,680; 24 city / 34 hwy).

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“Roomy cabin; available fuel-efficient turbodiesel engine; many upscale features come standard; high-quality cabin; refined ride…Below-average braking distances; lackadaisical throttle response; rearview camera not offered.” Edmunds

“A massive rear seat and better-than-hybrid highway fuel economy mask the slight loss of refinement and nimble road feel in the 2012 Volkswagen Passat.”Car Connection

“The Passat never feels particularly sporty, but it is well balanced and more than competent. The steering is lighter in cars with the 2.5-liter engine compared to the TDI and V6, but all are accurate. Braking is strong, but some testers found the pedal too touchy.”Consumer Guide

“The spacious cabin has a very roomy rear seat, but fit and finish took a step back. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If we were to describe the new 2012 Volkswagen Passat sedan in as few words as possible, we’d go with “more for your money.””KBB