The 2013 Scion FR-S is a compact rear wheel drive sports car. This high performance coupe becomes the fifth model to join the Scion family. It comes as a result of a pairing between Toyota and Subaru, although it is being sold through the Scion branch of Toyota.

This car can be seen as a true definition of a sports car with remarkable balanced handling and performance, flexible utility, surprising great fuel economy, and compelling style.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $24,955.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50l)	MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 166.7 in. (423.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.2 in. (257 cm)
Height: 50.6 in. (128.5 cm)	Width: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2758 lbs (1251 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.9 in. (12.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 6.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L 4 Cylinder Boxer	Compression Ratio: 12.5: 1
Horsepower: 200 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 151 lb-ft @ 6600 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Engine & Performance

The Scion FR-S gets its power from a 2.0L horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder engine that generates 200 horsepower and 151 lbs-ft of torque at 6,000 rpm. This engine is matched with either a 6-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters, or a 6-speed manual transmission. From standstill, this car can go from 0 to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, beating its identical twin sibling, Subaru BRZ, which clocks 7.3 seconds.

Fuel economy of an FR-S with an automatic gearbox estimates at 25 mpg in city and 34 mpg on highways, and 22/30 mpg if paired with the manual one. Because it is light weight and nimble handling, the FR-S offers a nice driving experience; while its strong brakes, agility and precise steering often draws comparisons to luxury sports cars such as the Porsche Cayman.

Exterior

The FR-S comes with a solid and fierce exterior that reflects the car’s inner power. The profile reveals a roofline that is remarkably low and sleek, giving the car an aerodynamic shape directing air modestly over to the top. The front side is made of sharp lines, and comes with angular headlights housing projector-beam halogen lamps.

The rear face sits wide and low with sleek lower treatments surrounding the sporty twin exhaust system. The center-mounted back-up lights finish the brawny design, with the LEDs illuminating the edgy taillights. The FR-S, available in just one trim level, comes with standard 17-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

The cabin has many standard features and provides sufficient comfortable space. From the aggressively-bolstered front seats to the clear-cut controls, this car envelops the driver in a cabin that is fully focused on the task at hand.

It’s small rear seat and trunk make it more practical than a Nissan 370Z or Mazda Miata. Standard interior features include: height-adjustable driver seat, air conditioning, 300-watt maximum Pioneer sound system with a HD radio, CD player, auxiliary audio jack, RCA output jacks, USB/iPod integration, and Bluetooth. The 2013 FR-S has a leather-wrapped steering wheel that has tilt and telescoping adjustments.

Safety & Reliability

The 2013 Scion FR-S is equipped with 6-airbags that include: dual-stage driver and passenger airbags, side-curtain airbags and front-seat-mounted airbags. Other standard safety feature are: traction control, brake assist, electronic stability control, 4-wheel disc brakes, Smart stop technology and anti-lock braking system.

Just like other Scion models, the FR-S is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty, as well as 5-year or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty. Moreover, there is a complimentary policy covering regular maintenance for the first 25,000 miles or 2 years, whichever comes first.

Pros

• Comfortable, supportive front seats
• Athletic handling
• High fuel economy
• Affordable
• Responsive engine

Cons

• Small cargo hold
• Tiny back seat
• Lack of luxury options

The 2013 Scion FR-S handles with uncommon precision while every steering input is satisfied by immediate response. This is a kind of immediacy that cannot be found in larger and heavier sport coupes like the Mustang and Camaro. With the many standard features, fuel economy, precise handling and muscular exterior look, the FR-S is definitely going to make an impact in the sports car market.

The FRS is certainly a coupe worth looking at along with the likes of Honda Civic coupe (MSRP $22,355; 22 city / 31 hwy), the Hyundai Genesis (MSRP $25,500; 20 city / 31 hwy), and the coupe from Mini Cooper (MSRP $24,600; 27 city / 35 hwy).

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Fun, light, and rewarding to drive, the 2013 Scion FR-S is a true sports car, despite the lack of absolute power.”Car Connection

“The steering requires moderate effort and gives good road feedback and steering feel. The FR-S handles like the sports car it is. It rounds corners crisply with very little body lean. Rapid changes of direction are handled predictably with little drama.”Consumer Guide

“You’ll like the 2013 Scion FR-S if you want a reasonably-priced, excellent handling car that rewards and satisfies advanced drivers without posing a hazard to those with less experience.”KBB

“The FR-S is not your friend’s boxy Scion. Thanks to sleek styling, rear-wheel drive and sharp handling, the FR-S is one of the most appealing performance cars of 2013.”Edmunds

The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is an affordable compact sedan that receives a lot of praise because of a spacious trunk with enough passenger room. The Jetta was redesigned in 2011 and is now more affordable and roomy than before.

The Jetta joins the old “Beetle” as symbols of what Volkswagen has given to the world, a car you can depend on. Far from what the Beetle had been in decades past, the Jetta proves to be as dependable and popular.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $16,675.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55l)	MPG: 24 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 182.2 in. (462.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.4 in. (265.1 cm)
Height: 57.2 in. (145.3 cm)	Width: 70.0 in. (177.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2804 lbs (1271 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (14 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline-4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 115 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SE	MSRP: $18,995; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:SEL	MSRP: $22,895; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:TDI® 2.0L Diesel	MSRP: $22,990; MPG: 30 city / 42 hwy
Option:GLI	MSRP: $23,945; MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy
Option:GLI Autobahn	MSRP: $26,195; MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 VW Jetta has 3 engine options. The base and the S trims use a 2.0L 4-cylinder that makes 115 hp and 125 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is mated to a standard 5-speed transmission or an optional 6-speed automatic gearbox. The engine nets a fuel economy estimate of 23/29 mpg city/highway with the automatic, and 24/34 mpg with the manual.

The SE, SEL and the SEL Premium are fitted with a 2.5L inline-5 powertrain that generates 170 hp and 177 lbs-ft of torque. Transmission choices remain the same as those of the 2.0L inline-4. However, this engine gets a fuel economy of 24/31 mpg with the automatic, and 23/33 with the manual.

The TDI trims feature a 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 engine that makes 140 hp and 236 lbs-ft of torque. A standard 6-speed manual gearbox is combined with this engine, while a 6-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission if offered as an option. This engine gets an excellent fuel economy of 30/42 mpg city/highway, with any of the available transmissions.

Exterior

The Volkswagen Jetta is a sedan with 6 trim levels: Base, S, SE, the SEL, the SEL Premium and the TDI model. The base trim comes with 15-inch wheels, while the S trim adds power/heated mirrors and keyless entry; while a sunroof is offered as an option.

Jetta SE trims come with 16-inch steel wheels, and optional exterior features like heated windshield washer nozzles, sunroof, and 16-inch alloy wheels. SEL models come with all optional features found on the SE (except the sunroof) in addition to chrome exterior trim, fog lamps, keyless entry and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The SEL premium on the other hand, comes with black-accented 17-inch wheels. The TDI trim comes with all optional features of the SEL premium, plus a sunroof.

Interior

The 2012 Jetta comes with one of the roomiest cabin in its class. The seats offer enough legroom and headroom, comfortable enough even for tall people. The rear seats can accommodate 2 adults comfortably, while three kids will find this seat very spacious.

The base S trim comes with 4-speaker AM/FM/CD audio system and an auxiliary input jack as standard features in its interior. Depending on the trim you choose, you can get features like: Bluetooth, Navigation system, satellite radio, iPod interface, Bluetooth and Fender audio system. The Jetta offers a cargo space of 15.5 cubic feet, which competes with trunks of some midsize sedans. The cabin has more storage space in its large glove compartment, deep center console and door pockets.

Safety & Reliability

The VW Jetta is equipped with standard safety features that include; front side airbags, active front head restraints, front side airbags, driver and front passenger airbags, traction control, child safety locks, 4-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, emergency trunk release and 4-wheel ABS.

This sedan is backed by a limited warranty for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, in addition to an engine warranty that for 5 years or 60,000 miles. Rust damages are covered that lasts for 12 years. New owners benefit from the carefree maintenance plan that includes free regular maintenance for the first 36,000 miles or 3 years.

Pros

• Huge rear seat and trunk
• Affordable base price
• Fuel-efficient diesel powertrain
• Well equipped
• Smart electronics interface.

Cons

• Bland exterior
• Sluggish throttle with automatic transmission
• Numb steering
• Cheap plastic cabin on lower trims

The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will attract a lot of attention from people shopping for affordable small cars, due to its great passenger and cargo room, in addition to engine refinement that beats most of its rivals.

This car will compete against rivals like the Honda Civic (MSRP $16,755; 28 city / 39 hwy), Mazda3 (MSRP $16,700; 25 city / 33 hwy), and the old reliable Toyota Corolla (MSRP $17,060; 26 city / 34 hwy).

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is roomy and more affordable than ever. But there’s also not a whole lot to help this sedan stand out against other more dynamic competitors.” Edmunds

“The 2012 Volkswagen Jetta sedan has exceptional interior room and trunk space; the SportWagen is tighter inside, though it does have a flexible cargo hold.” Car Connection

“The GLI shines in this area and comes off as a true sports sedan, with responsive moves and little body lean in fast turns. Other Jettas, however, are not particularly sporty, which is disappointing for a Volkswagen. Jetta is more than competent, however. It’s composed in fast turns with good steering feel and strong brakes.” Consumer Guide

“The Jetta sedan has a spacious rear seat and trunk but the good news mostly ends there. Handling lacks agility and interior fit and finish is unimpressive in most versions.” MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Given the range of price and powertrains, it’s should come as no surprise that today’s VW Jetta can generate as many impressions as it has derivatives.” KBB

Novitec Rosso revealed their own souped-up version of the Ferrari FF, the 2012 Novitec Rosso Ferrari FF. The Novitec Rosso Ferrari is more than just a combination of names.

It is a result of a sophisticated program that refines the bodywork and the engine, making the car look better and drive faster.

Engine

The stock Ferrari FF has a 12-cylinder 6.3 liter engine that delivers 660 horsepower. Novitec Rosso has re-calibrated the ECU system of the engine and installed their proprietary high-performance, stainless-steel exhaust system, boosting the power output to 702 horsepower. The updated engine gives the car a new top speed of 211 mph.

Performance

Other updates done by Novitec Rosso improved the car’s performance. These new features include the Novitec Rosso sports springs that lower the center of gravity, ultra-light rims that reduce the weight of the car and new tires that provide optimal traction. As a result, the Novitec Rosso Ferrari becomes even sportier, nimbler and safer.

Exterior

The bodywork for the Novitec Rosso Ferrari entails an aerodynamic and lightweight scheme for which carbon fiber is used. The lines and curves are sleek and its bright yellow color makes the car truly eye-catching. The black front grille and rims, and the black accents on the side and the rear complement the bright yellow color.

Interior

Novitec Rosso did not disclose details about their interior updates for the Ferrari FF. It is reasonable to assume that the interior can be customized to the owner’s preference.

Pros

The Novitec Rosso Ferrari FF is more powerful than its stock form. It now looks sportier and more masculine with the exterior touches. As far as speed and performance are concerned, you certainly ask for more. The car definitely gives you style and power on the road. Sports car enthusiasts will love this.

Cons

Since the engine has been modified, it will use more fuel. Grand touring purists will be disappointed with its performance car setup.

If fuel consumption is not an issue and you’re not satisfied with the stock car, the 2012 Novitec Rosso Ferrari FF should be on your sights.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24 gallons (91L)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 193.2 in. (490.7 cm)	Wheelbase: 117.7 in. (298.9 cm)
Height: 54.3 in. (137.9 cm)	Width: 76.9 in. (195.3 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: V12	Displacement: 6.3 liters
Horsepower: 702 HP	Max RPM: 8200 rpm
Torque: 527 lb-ft @ 6200 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Auto/Manual
0-60 mph: NA	Top Speed: 211 mph (339 km/h)

The 2012 Suzuki SX4 is an affordable, compact available in three body styles, making it one of the most diverse cars of its class. With many options offered, it is easy to find a model to fit your needs.

The Sedan, the SportBack, and the Crossover all offer variations such as a hatchback, manual transmission, and all-wheel drive. The SX4 has gained additional braking power, by providing rear disc brakes, making safety a premium goal.

This simple yet powerful car is fun to drive, gets good safety ratings, and is affordable.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $13,849.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50l)	MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 176.8 in. (449 cm)	Wheel Base: 98.4 in. (249.9 cm)
Height: 60.8 in. (154.4 cm)	Width: 68.1 in. (172.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 2744 lbs (1244 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L 4 Cylinder DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 150 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LE FWD	MSRP: $15,645; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:LE Popular Pkg FWD CVT	MSRP: $17,549; MPG: 25 city / 32 hwy
Option:Sport SE FWD CVT	MSRP: $18,349; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy

Engine

The 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder engine with 150 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque is one of the largest and strongest engines in the affordable small car category. The engine power is sent to the front wheels by a six-speed manual, or continuously variable transmission (CVT), with slightly less horsepower. In addition to a powerful engine, the 4-wheel, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, and electronic stability control with traction control, make driving easy and fun.

Performance

The Suzuki SX4 is capable of surviving through winter driving, with all-wheel drive. The additional stopping advantage offered by rear disc brakes is very effective as well. The SX4 can get 23 mpg in the city, and 33 mpg on the highway with manual transmission option, and 25 mpg city, and 32 mpg highway driving for the continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Exterior

The lines of the SX4 are simple, but it achieves a cohesive look. Color-matched side mirror housing, and door handles, daytime running headlights, and 15-inch steel or alloy wheels, gives the car a premium look.

It may not be exciting, but is attractive, and aerodynamically efficient. The side impact door beams of the body frame are a great safety feature. The exterior colors have expanded, now offering a shimmering new red color.

Interior

The SX4 may lack standard luxury features, but options are available. Air conditioning, compact-disc audio system with auxiliary jack, and steering wheel-mounted audio controls are available in the LE model. Standard features are power doors, windows, locks and mirrors, a tilt-adjustable steering wheel, and front armrests.

There is an option for USB connectivity and Bluetooth, but this will raise the base price, and is standard on other cars in its class. The 60/40 split, folding, rear seats do offer a great deal of cargo space for this small car. There is 16 cubic feet of space when using the back seats, and 51.8 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. The sedan has 15.5 cubic feet of cargo space.

Safety & Reliability

The SX4 comes equipped with electronic stability control and traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock brakes and electronic brake-force distribution, a tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lights. The eight air bags include dual front, curtain side, and side impact for both front and rear passenger seats. Three-point seat belts, and child-proof rear door locks are also provided.

The Suzuki SX4 comes with a 3 years, or 36,000 miles warranty, with roadside assistance. Suzuki also offers a transferable powertrain warranty of 7 years, or 100,000 miles, which is one of the longest warranties in this class of vehicles. With all-wheel drive, and the addition of rear disc brakes, the SX4 gets good ratings in the safety and reliability category.

Pros & Cons

The SX4 is an affordable, simple, safe, and reliable car to drive for all seasons. It is a fun car to drive, and handles well, making it a very comfortable car for commuting. It has great head room, good cargo space, strong brakes, and is a good value in the affordable, small car category.

If you want exciting looks, a luxurious interior or high fuel economy, you may want to look elsewhere however. The cabin is a bit dated, and lacks quality features, and the CVT is more sluggish to drive.

Competition

Depending on what you are looking for in a car of this category. The 2012 Suzuki SX4 may have better handling and a stronger, more effective braking system than these competitors.

Other makes worth looking at include the Chevrolet Sonic (MSRP $14,200; 26 city / 35 hwy), the Kia Rio (MSRP $13,600; 30 city / 40 hwy), and the Hyundai Accent (MSRP $15,545; 30 city / 40 hwy). All these along with the SX4 are priced reasonably for everyday driving.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“While the 2012 Suzuki SX4 still remains a good value, a number of newer and more enticing compact sedan and hatchback competitors make it hard to recommend.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Suzuki SX4 remains the lowest-priced car with all-wheel drive, and it’s one of the best small-car values for the money.”Car Connection

“Quick, nicely weighted steering and stable cornering make SX4 feel nimble despite moderate body lean in fast turns. Brake-pedal action is firm and progressive on all SX4s. The turning radius is surprisingly (and disappointingly) large for a vehicle with such tidy dimensions.”Consumer Guide

“The SX4 is available as a small sedan or hatchback. The engine drones on the highway and delivers slow acceleration. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Because of their small size, all Suzuki SX4s are easy to maneuver and park. The Sport version of the Sedan and the SportBack offer relatively sporty handling, but these are not tarmac burners.”KBB

The 2012 Scion xB is a top ranked affordable vehicle that can be used to transport people and serve as a cargo hauler. This 5-seater is one of the boxiest cars available on the market at the moment, facing competition from rivals like Kia Soul and Nissan Cube.

The xB also gets a lot of credit for its roomy cabin and respectable cargo hold than most rivals including some midsize SUVs.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $16,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 gallons (53l)	MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 167.3 in. (424.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.4 in. (260 cm)
Height: 63.4 in. (161 cm)	Width: 69.3 in. (176 cm)
Curb Weight: 3027 lbs (1373 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (12.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L Inline 4 DOHC w/ VVT-i	Compression Ratio: 9.8: 1
Horsepower: 158 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 162 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Release Series 9.0

MSRP: $18,110; MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy

Engine & Performance

All 2012 Scion xB’s use a 2.4L inline-4 engine that generates 158 hp and 162 lbs-ft of torque. It is linked to a 5-speed manual transmission; although a 4-speed automatic gearbox is an option.

An xB fitted with an automatic gearbox can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.6 seconds. The engine’s fuel economy is estimated at 22 mpg in cities and 28 mpg while on a highway. This fuel economy beats several rivals and some crossovers like the Chevrolet Equinox. Although the xB gets a noticeable body lean when turning, it offers a composed ride on bumpy roads.

Exterior

This 4-door is available in two trim levels: base and Release Series 9.0. The 2012 xB gets an upgrade in style from the 2011 edition. Among the upgrades are: honeycomb grille, aggressive looking taillights, chrome exhaust tip and headlights. Other exterior features include: power side mirrors with turn-signal indicators, and 16-inch steel wheels with wheel covers.

The Release Series 9.0 comes with additional features like illuminated rear and front exterior Scion badges, while optional 17-inch alloy wheels, rear spoiler and fog-lights are also available.

Interior

A spacious and well equipped cabin is one of the attractions of this car. The xB comes with comfortable seating capacity for five people, which is enough even for tall passengers. Standard entertainment features include: Bluetooth, HD radio, and a Pioneer audio system which was previously offered as an option in predecessors. The cabin is also fitted with a center-mounted speedometer, while the red colored gauges are easy to see at night.

Other notable features you will find are: air conditioning, tilt/telescoping steering wheel with audio controls, and 60/40 split folding rear seats. The xB has a cargo hold of 11.6 cubic ft behind the rear seats, but the space increases to 69.9 cubic ft after folding the rear seats. This is respectable cargo space for its class and it can be compared with some compact SUVs.

Safety & Reliability

For the safety of the occupants during a ride or in the event of a collision, the xB is fitted with many standard safety features that include: electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes, traction control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, integrated turn signal mirrors, driver and passenger airbags, brake assist and child safety locks.

This car is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty as well as a 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty. During the first five years, the car gets a rust-through coverage, while major emission control components get an 8-year or 80,000 miles coverage.

Pros

• Long list of interior features for its price
• Plenty of passenger space
• Generous cargo space
• Numerous optional add-ons

Cons

• Poor rear visibility
• Noticeable body lean
• Confusing audio controls.

In general, the 2012 Scion xB feels stable at highway speeds and you can expect to attract a lot of attention from young people due to its driving demeanor and numerous high-tech audio features. Other people shopping for small cars with a spacious interior are also likely to get attracted to purchase this car.

A few cars have the same body configuration as the xB, that would include the Kia Soul (MSRP $16,300; 27 city / 35 hwy) and the Nissan Cube (MSRP $16,580; 25 city / 30 hwy).

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Being box-shaped has its virtues–the Scion xB has lots of interior room, and the versatile hatchback yields lots of cargo space. Still, we wish it had better seats.”Car Connection

“There is moderate body lean in fast turns, and the steering response is slightly vague. A tight turning radius and light steering feel aid low-speed maneuverability. The brakes are strong and responsive.”Consumer Guide

“The rear seat is enormous, and cabin access is very easy. The cargo area is generous, but low windows and thick roof pillars make the cabin dark and impair visibility.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Scion xB hatchback is the rolling box that started the rolling box craze in America. Once looked at with raised eyebrows and quizzical glances, the 2012 Scion xB appears downright mainstream…”KBB

“The 2012 Scion xB is a compact people mover and cargo hauler that packs lots of high-tech audio features. Fuel economy is lackluster, however, and the unconventional styling isn’t for everyone.”Edmunds