The 2013 Aston Martin Vanquish is a stunning, luxury, sports car, which uses the architecture and craftsmanship inherent in Aston Martin design and engineering, to produce a sports car which is more efficient and affordable for every day use.

While no details have been missed, new materials were used to make the car lighter, easier to handle, more efficient, and roomier. Performance has increased with the impressive technology used, and the overall look is reminiscent of past models, but much more economical to drive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: $296,772.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.5 gals (78L)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 185.8 in. (472 cm)	Wheelbase: 107.8 in. (274 cm)
Height: 50.9 in. (129.4 cm)	Width: 81.3 in. (206.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 3833 lbs (1739 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: 48 Valve V12	Displacement: 6.0 liters cc
Horsepower: 565 HP	Max RPM: 6750 rpm
Torque: 457 lb-ft	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds	Top Speed: 183 mph (295 km/h)

Design

The Vanquish is a leaner, more elegant car, with improved dynamics and agility. Its aluminum, magnesium alloy, and carbon fiber composite body, with body panels constructed from carbon fiber, increases torsion rigidity more than 25%.

Each carbon fiber panel is sculpted to direct airflow around the car, into the engine, also helping to cool the braking system. The carbon fiber elements used in the Vanquish are advanced techniques used in the motorsport and aerospace industries. Manipulating downforce of air, and making the car lighter, makes handling and grip of the car more responsive and predictable.

Performance

The front chassis is 13% lighter, by using hollow cast aluminum, and is redesigned to lower the engine, which also improves handling and agility. Because of the front-mid mounted engine, and mounting position of the transaxle, a near perfect distribution of weight is achieved.

The 6.0-liter, V12 engine has a revised block, and new head with variable valve timing. The fuel pump has been upgraded, with enlarged throttle bodies, and a revised intake manifold. It has fully machined combustion chambers, which helps the engine to provide an increased peak power of 565 hp at 6,750 rpm.

A Launch Control system, derived from motorsports, delivers an optimum take-off, which balances the throttle, gearbox, and traction aids. Dynamic Stability Control, and Positive Torque Control aids, helps in providing more control, for a refined driving experience.

The Adaptive Damping System (ADS) now gives the driver three damping options, delivering immediate adjustment of the car’s handling abilities in normal mode, sport mode, or track mode. The Vanquish is capable of achieving 0-62 mph in just 4.1 seconds, with a top speed of 183 mph.

Interior

The interior space in the Vanquish has increased 1.5 inches for legroom, and 3.5 inches for elbow room, making it feel much roomier. The luxurious leather interior and hand-quilted seat bolsters, display the expert craftsmanship which is a signature of Aston Martin cars.

The Vanquish comes complete with a center stack, capacitive touch interface with haptic feedback, and Bang and Olufsen audio system, along with many other optional features offered in Aston Martin sports cars. The increased space is the newest renovation, with more cabin space, and an impressive 13 cubic feet for luggage in the trunk.

Exterior

Every effort has been made to make the 2012 Aston Martin Vanquish a sporty, luxury car, yet engineered in a way to make it more economical, with less emissions, roomier, and easier to handle.

Their efforts have paid off, and the 2013 Vanquish will begin to be delivered to customers in the United States, in early 2013. It is a beautiful looking sports car which has become more efficient, easier to handle, and more affordable to own.

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a luxury large SUV, that features a combination of great off-road performance, unique looks and top-notch build quality.

This SUV is fitted with full-time 4-wheel drive system, featuring a locking front, center and rear differentials.

This five passenger car is available in one trim, the G550.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $113,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.4 gallons (96 l)	MPG: 12 city / 15 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 184.5 in. (468.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.2 in. (285 cm)
Height: 76.8 in. (195 cm)	Width: 80.9 in. (205.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 5578 lbs (2530 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 45.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: DOHC V8	Displacement: 5.5 Liter
Horsepower: 382 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 7500 lbs (3402 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:C63 AMG 536 HP

MSRP: $134,300; MPG: 12 city / 15 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Mercedes-Benz G-class uses a 5.5L V8 powertrain that generates 382 hp and 391 lbs-ft of torque. The engine comes with several standard equipment that include: three lockable differentials, 4-wheel drive, and a 7-speed automatic gearbox.

The G550 is capable of sprinting from standstill to 60 mph in amazing 6.6 seconds. The gearbox is versatile and driver adaptive, offering the widest span of gear ratios in the SUV family. The braking does not perform badly too, with the G550 taking 127 foot to come to a standstill from 60 mph.

The fuel economy rates at 12 mpg in city and 15 mpg while on a highway. All the same, the G-class remains one of the most capable off-road SUVs in the market today.

Exterior

From the outside, the G-Class is recognizable from its stylish look that has many standard exterior feature. These features are: sunroof, automatic wipers, and rear parking sensors, 18-inch wheels and automatic bi-xenon headlamps. Mercedes-Benz G-Class is available in 7 exterior color coats including: Arctic white, black, Palladium Silver metallic, Obsidian black, Flint grey, Iridium silver, and Verde brook metallic.

Interior

The interior is outfitted in true Mercedes-Benz style, and accommodates up to five people. The front seats are relatively firm and comfortable, although tall drivers might find the legroom being a little bit limited. Overall, the headroom for all seats is more than enough, with the power front seats having an astounding height adjustment.

Many standard features are fitted in this vehicle, leaving no room for optional features or packages. These features include: premium sound system, hard-drive navigation system, leather surfaces trimmed with wood, and 4GB hard drive for music. The G550 has a maximum cargo space of 79.5 cubic ft.

Safety & Reliability

This large SUV comes with many safety features, to ensure that the occupants have a safe ride throughout and still make sure that the occupants are safe in the event of a collision. Among these standard safety features are: traction and stability control, side curtain airbags, Mercedes-Benz mbrace telematics, antilock brakes, Blind spot assist, Parktronic system with reversing camera that assists during parking, child safety locks, brake assist, integrated turn signal mirrors, daytime running lights, and trailer stability assist.

The 2012 G-class comes with a 4-year or 50,000 mile limited warranty from Mercedes, and 1-year or 12,000 miles warranty for items that wear out rapidly like wiper blades, brake discs and tires.

Pros

• Stand-out exterior styling
• Luxurious and well equipped interior
• Unbeatable off-road ability
• Strong V8 engine
• Adequate headroom
• Unmatched presence
• Solid construction

Cons

• High price
• Small cabin for a large SUV
• Poor fuel economy
• Disappointing on-road handling
• Limited front legroom
• Finicky electronics interface

The Mercedes-Benz G-class is a car of choice for people looking for large SUV with great off-road performance. Moreover, its unique looks and top-notch build quality are among other several things that makes this SUV appealing to many people.

Depending on your preference of what you expect from your SUV, there are only a few that might meet your expectations, the first is another offering from Mercedes, the M Class (MSRP $94,990; 15 city / 25 hwy), followed by two from BMW, the X5 M (MSRP $88,850; 12 city / 17 hwy) and the X6 M (MSRP $92,900; 12 city / 17 hwy); if you don’t mind the feel of added luxury, the Cadillac Escalade (MSRP $71,675; 14 city / 18 hwy) is also worth looking at.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is nearly in a class by itself thanks to its unique, and essentially archaic, design, but it does what it does very, very well–for a price.”Car Connection

“The 2012 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup shrinks but is otherwise largely unchanged. Mercedes designed this tall, relatively narrow 4-door wagon in the 1970s for military use. “G” denotes Gelandewagen–German for cross-country vehicle.”Consumer Guide

“If you get a childlike smirk when you look at the 2012 Mercedes-Benz G550 SUV you’ll probably love it.”KBB

“Strong V8 engine; go-anywhere capability; unmatched presence; luxuriously appointed cabin…Unwieldy handling; limited front legroom; very tall roof line; abysmal fuel economy; finicky electronics interface.”Edmunds

The 2012 Lincoln MKX is a two-row luxury midsize SUV that is based on the Ford Edge platform. However, it sets itself apart through Lincoln’s split grille, rear and front lights, and unique fenders.

This roomy vehicle boasts posh interior, high-tech features and smooth rides. The MKX is offered in one trim level.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury SUV	Base Price: $39,545.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 l)	MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 186.7 in. (474.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.2 in. (282.4 cm)
Height: 67.3 in. (170.9 cm)	Width: 76 in. (193 cm)
Curb Weight: 4236 lbs (1921 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 32.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L Ti-VCT V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 305 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 280 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 3500* lbs (1587 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

*Properly equipped

Available Trims & Engine

Option:MKX AWD

MSRP: $41,395; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The MKX gets its power from a 3.7L V6 engine that makes 305 horsepower and 280 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is hooked up with a standard 6-speed automatic transmission with manual shifting ability. While the all-wheel drive models have a fuel economy rated at 17/23 mpg city/highway; the front-wheel models estimates at 19 mpg in city and 26 mpg on highway.

The all-wheel drive model can splint from 0 to 60 mpg in just 7.3 seconds. The MKX has a maximum towing capability of up to 3,500 lbs when well equipped.

Exterior

The Lincoln MKX is available in 8 exterior color coats including cinnamon metallic, dark blue pearl metallic, and black among others. The MKX comes with several standard features that include: 18-inch polished alloy wheels, HID headlights, split-wing grille, rain sensing wipers, panoramic vista roof, power lift-gate and LED tail lamps.

Interior

The MKX has a well-trimmed cabin with stylish stitching, aluminum accents and quality materials. The SUV is fitted with a standard MyLincoln Touch interface that consists of 3 display screens and ability to give for various phones, audio, and navigation commandments through voice.

All rows have adequate space especially in the rear row where 3 people can sit comfortably. The 2012 Lincoln MKX has a cargo space of 32.3 cubic feet behind the rear seats. This space can be maximized to 69 cubic feet, when the second row is folded.

Other standard features include: heated and cooled leather front seats, rear view camera system, heated steering wheel, and dual-zone electronic climate control.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Lincoln MKX safety features guarantee the safety of the occupants in case a collision occurs. Some of the standard safety features include: stability and traction control, antilock disk brakes, side curtain airbags, front side airbags, driver and passenger airbags, tire pressure monitoring system, child safety locks and 4-wheel ABS.

Another key safety feature is the MyKey system that allows the driver to limit the top speed and radio volume. An optional blind-spot warning system is also a notable safety feature for the MKX. This SUV is backed with a 4-year or 50,000 mile bumper to bumper Lincoln warranty, as well as a 6-year or 70,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Cushy ride
• Spacious interior
• Quiet cabin
• High-tech luxury features
• Many standard features

Cons

• Polarizing exterior.
• MyLincoln Touch is a bit confusing.
• Performance is not very sporty.

In general, the combination of technical features, distinctive looks, quality materials and stylish interior are hard to beat and makes this SUV to be one of the most preferred luxury midsize SUV.

The 2012 Lincoln MKX is also less expensive than several other midsize SUVs. For these reasons, if you are in the market looking for a midsize crossover, then the MKV is in no doubt a great choice for you.

Luxury SUVs are made those who have made a name for themselves, this includes the likes of the Lexus RX (MSRP $39,075; 18 city / 25 hwy), the Cadillac SRX (MSRP $40,515; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Infiniti FX (MSRP $43,700; 16 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“A well-conceived cabin has lots of room for adults and a fair amount of cargo–and the 2012 MKX’s MyLincoln Touch gives the impression of high-tech quality.”Car Connection

“MKX is not particularly sporty or engaging to drive, but that’s not its primary mission. For a vehicle that emphasizes luxury touring, this Lincoln is more than competent. Steering feel is good on the highway, but it’s a bit too heavy in low-speed driving. Body lean in fast turns is moderate, and the brakes have decent overall stopping control despite slightly spongy pedal action.”Consumer Guide

“The Lincoln MKX is a strong performer, with both commendable acceleration and a compliant ride. All-wheel drive helps keep things under control during hard acceleration, which can cause torque steer…”KBB

“The 2012 Lincoln MKX is a respectable choice for a luxury crossover thanks to its well-rounded performance, well-trimmed and roomy cabin, and generous list of standard features.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mazda3 is among the top ranked affordable small cars, available in hatchback and sedan body styles.

The sedan is offered in 5 trim levels which include: s Grand Touring, i Grand touring, i Touring, i Sport and i SV.

The hatchback model of the Mazda3 is available in two trims, Touring and Grand Touring.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $15,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55 l)	MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.7 in. (458.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263.9 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 69.1 in. (175.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2866 lbs (1300 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (11.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L VVT-DOHC 4 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual w/ OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:i-Sport	MSRP: $16,845; MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy
Option:i-Touring Auto	MSRP: $18,100; MPG: 28 city / 40 hwy
Option:s-Touring 2.5L MT	MSRP: $21,300; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:i-Grand Touring Auto	MSRP: $22,550; MPG: 28 city / 40 hwy
Option:s-Grand Touring 2.5L	MSRP: $22,900; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Mazda3 is equipped with high performance powertrains including the SkyActiv engine, which is considered to be one of the most engaging and fuel-efficient engine in its class. The SkyActiv powertrain is fitted on the i Touring and i Grand Touring models, a 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that generates 155 hp and 148 lbs-ft of torque.

The engine is mounted to a standard 6-speed manual gearbox with a 6-speed transmission being optional. The engine nets a fuel mileage of 27/39 mpg city highway with the 6-speed manual transmission, and 28/40 mpg with the 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Mazda3’s base engine is standard on the i SV and the i Sport trims, is a 2.0L 4-cylinder, making 148 horsepower and 135 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is connected to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, but the i Sport can be fitted with the available 5-speed automatic. The fuel economy rating is at 25/33 mpg city/highway with manual transmission and 24/33 mpg with the automatic.

The S trims are equipped with a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine that makes 167 hp and 168 lbs-ft of torque. This comes with either a 5-speed automatic or 6-speed manual gearbox. With the 6-speed manual transmission, this engine nets a fuel economy of 20/28 mpg city/highway; while the 5-speed manual transmission estimates a fuel economy of 22/29 mpg.

Exterior

The Mazda3 arrives with have a renovated front fascia and air-dam that makes it look stylish and distinctive. The SV models are fitted with 16-inch steel wheel, power windows and mirrors and keyless entry as standard exterior features.

The 3i Touring comes with 16-inch alloy wheels and heated mirrors; while the s Touring models comes with 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, deck lid spoiler on sedan model, and LED taillights. Both s and i Grand Touring trims gets automatic wipers and adaptive bi-xenon headlights.

Interior

The cabin is equipped with many standard features and constructed with good quality materials. All Mazda3 models have standard interior features that include: satellite radio-compatible stereo, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, steering wheel-hosted audio controls, and auxiliary input jack.

The sedan has a trunk space of 11.8 cubic feet while the hatchback gets a 17 cubic feet cargo space which can be increased to 42.8 cubic ft after folding the rear seats. It can accommodate 5 people. Other notable features are: rear heater ducts, silver center console, driver foot rest, cargo area light, and passenger side seatback pocket.

Safety & Reliability

All Mazda3 models are equipped with several standard safety features including: stability and traction control, antilock disc brakes, emergency trunk release, child safety locks, 4-wheel disc brakes, 4-wheel ABS, side curtain airbags, brake assist and front side airbags.

Mazda backs the 2012 Mazda3 with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty as well as 24/7 road assistance for the same period. In addition to that, there is a 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Great fuel economy and performance SkyActiv engine
• Fun to drive
• Precise handling
• Well equipped interior
• Impressive list of luxury options
• Extra utility of 4-door hatchback

Cons

• Tiny navigation screen.
• Less cargo space than rivals.
• Goofy-looking grill.

The 2012 Mazda3 is one of the most stylish small-car picks, and with the distinctive 5-door hatchback model; then, it is a car to watch out for when looking for a small car for your family.

The small sedan market is filled with many choices, along with the Mazda3 4 door, you may want to look at the likes of the Honda Civic DX (MSRP $15,955; 28 city / 36 hwy), the popular Toyota Corolla (MSRP $16,130; 27 city / 34 hwy), and the VW Jetta (MSRP $16,645; 24 city / 34 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“With its new Skyactive powertrains, the 2012 Mazda3 is the eco-conscious choice that sure doesn’t drive like one.”Car Connection

“Any 3 is confident, exhibiting little body lean, though i versions have more than s models. Steering feel is accurate and responsive, and the brakes have excellent pedal feel and control. ”Consumer Guide

“The Mazda3 uses a quick and fuel-efficient 2.0-liter engine and a punchy 2.5-liter that is punchy. Handling is precise and the firm ride is comfortable.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The beauty of the 2012 Mazda3 is that no matter which model you choose, it will be equipped with a fun to drive spirit.”KBB

“Precise handling; high fuel economy with optional 2.0-liter engine; stylish, well-equipped interior; impressive list of luxury options; extra utility of four-door hatchback.”Edmunds

The 2012 Scion xD is a subcompact car available in two hatchback trim levels: the base and the Release Series 4.0. The xD which is nearly similar to the Subaru BRZ sport coupe is a top ranked affordable small car with many standard features.

The Scion xD can be best described as a modest small hatchback with style.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $16,100.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.1 gallons (42l)	MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 154.7 in. (392.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 96.9 in. (246.1 cm)
Height: 59.4 in. (150.8 cm)	Width: 67.9 in. (172.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 2625 lbs (1190 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.8L 4 Cylinder DOHC w/ VVT-i	Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1
Horsepower: 126 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Release Series 4.0

MSRP: $16,250; MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Scion xD gets its power from a 1.8L 4-cylinder powertrain that generates 128 hp and 125 lbs-ft of torque. This engine is mounted on a 5-speed manual transmission, although buyers can also opt for the available 4-speed automatic gearbox. An xD fitted with a manual transmission can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds, which is faster than most rival models.

The engine nets 27 mpg in the city and 33 mpg when cruising on a highway. This car also comes with impressive braking abilities, and many people will like it due to its capability to hold itself in corners and twists. The electric-controlled power steering is not only quick, but also accurate.

Exterior

All xD models are fitted with several notable features including: 16-inch steel wheels, door lock with key-less entry and power windows. The stylish exterior is available in 8 color coats including Black currant, Barcelona red, Amazon green, and classic silver metallic among others.

The Release Series 4.0 model is fitted with 16-inch alloy wheels and door panels among other exterior features not included in the base model.

Interior

The 2012 xD comes with a stylish, comfortable and elegant cabin. The cool, minimalist cabin look is available in dark gray shades, with most parts being of matte-finish metal. Climate and entertainment controls are logically arrayed on the center console flowing down to a nesting space for iPods and phone.

A standard USB port caters for iPod connectivity while an auxiliary audio jack port is incorporated for entertainment purposes. The rear seats can be reclined, to offer ample space for the occupant. The xD has a cargo space of 10.5 cubic ft behind the rear seats, although this can be maximized to 35.7 cubic ft after folding the rear seats. Other standard features include tilt-steering wheel with audio controls, and tire pressure monitor.

Safety & Reliability

This car comes with many standard safety features, to keep the driver and occupants’ safe during a ride, or in case a collision occurs. Some of these features are: stability control, antilock brakes with brake assist, full-length side curtain airbags, front seat side airbags, front active head restraints, integrated turn signal mirrors, child safety lock, driver and front seat passenger airbags, and traction control.

The xD comes with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty in addition to the 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty. During the first 5 years, this car is also covered against rust regardless of mileage. Moreover, emission control equipment is also protected for the first 8 years or 80,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Pros

• Hip exterior styling
• Smooth manual and automatic transmissions
• Impressive list of standard interior features
• Nifty sliding back seats
• High-tech stereo system

Cons

• Unfriendly to tall drivers
• Mediocre cargo space
• Average fuel economy for its class

The car beats most of its rival when it comes to standard interior features, while its stylish exterior and engine performance makes it a good choice for small families and people shopping for small cars.

This is a popular style for cars, it is one reason the Ford Fiesta (MSRP $15,670; 29 city / 38 hwy), the Honda Fit (MSRP $17,060; 27 city / 33 hwy), and the Nissan Versa (MSRP $14,570; 26 city / 31 hwy) joins the Scion xD.

Overall Rating
61 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Scion xD has a roomy interior, but the execution falls short–with short, hard front seats and some unimpressive materials.”Car Connection

“xD’s light steering lacks road feel. Somewhat soft suspension damping allows for early onset of tire squeal and plenty of body lean in fast turns. The brakes are strong and responsive.”Consumer Guide

“The front seats are comfortable enough for people who fit them, but some taller drivers found the bottom cushion too short. The rear has plenty of room for a small car, and cabin access is easy..”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Scion adds a new Pioneer audio system with HD Radio and Bluetooth to the 2012 xD.”KBB

“Extensive customization options; nifty sliding/reclining backseat; high-tech stereo systems…Mediocre cargo space; unfriendly to tall drivers.”Edmunds