The 2012 Hyundai Azera may go lower than the middle when it comes to listing this year’s best affordable large cars, but it definitely is not a bad choice for people who prefer bigger sedans.

The new Azera has updated styling that is akin to the Sonata, a handful of useful interior features. The Azera provides adequate power and comfort.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $32,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons(70L)	MPG: 20 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 193.3 in. (490.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 112 in. (284.4 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3605 lbs (1635 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.3L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.5: 1
Horsepower: 293 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 255 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic Shiftronic
0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds	1/4 Mile: 14.7 seconds

Engine

The Hyundai Azera has a V6 3.3 liter engine that delivers 293 horsepower and 255 lbs/ft of torque. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission, it is the only engine available for the Azera.

According to the EPA, the new Azera has a fuel economy rating of 29 mpg for highway and 20 mpg for city driving. Looking at the statistics, it is easy to see that the Azera can keep up with the competition as far as fuel economy is concerned.

Performance

What we love about the new Azera apart from the muscle is that it provides quality handling and steering; it is far better than its forerunner. Compared to its competitors the Azera does well, too. It is also important to note that the cabin stays quiet even at high speeds.

The transmission is smooth making it easy to pass and cruise. Another thing that we would like to emphasize is that the new Azera has no issues when it comes to torque steering, a thing that is always present in front-wheel drives.

Other car owners prefer more road feel that is why they shun away from the Azera’s accurate steering. While we commend Hyundai for putting a smart steering system, there are some drivers who won’t. If there is one area where Hyundai can further improve the Azera, would be the suspension.

As it hit the streets, it is noticeable that it does not handle road imperfections as good as its more expensive competitors. In its present form though, we can say that the suspension is a cross between sport and comfort.

Exterior

By the first look, the Azera exudes a rather sleek impression. It has the lines and the curves that make the car easily recognizable. Once you see it, you will know that it is a Hyundai.

Interior

No doubt, the interior of the new Azera shows how great it has improved from the previous model. Both the front and the rear seats have heating, there is enough legroom and headroom for taller drivers and passengers, and the quality of the materials is definitely better. Driving the new Azera, one can easily see that it gives great value for money for a large car.

Standard in the Azera are the navigation, dual zone climate control, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, and push button start.

Safety

Tests have yet to be done on the new Azera. On the other hand, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave it a “good” score in side and front crash tests. There is no information about roof strength tests and rear crash protection though.

Reliability

The Hyundai Azera comes with the standard 5-year warranty, a 10-year warranty for the powertrain, and a 5-year 24-hour roadside assistance.

Pros

The new Azera has an outstanding exterior design. It provides enough power and good handling, as well as a comfortable and smooth ride.

Cons

The current suspension system can be further improved for it to handle road imperfections with greater poise.

The good qualities of the 2012 Hyundai Azera definitely give great value for your money.

Competition

The Azera could be compared to the likes of the Toyota Avalon (MSRP $33,195; 19 city / 28 hwy), Nissan Maxima (MSRP $32,420; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Ford Taurus SE (MSRP $25,555; 18 city / 28 hwy) when it comes to price and mpg.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Hyundai Azera is confidence-inspiring, with plenty of performance for style- and comfort-minded shoppers.”Car Connection

“The Azera is Hyundai’s large luxury sedan that is redesigned for 2012 to incorporate Hyundai’s Fluidic Sculpture design language.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Plenty of standard features; smooth ride quality; quiet and spacious cabin; large trunk; long warranty coverage. Abundance of hard interior plastic; indifferent driving dynamics.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is designed for commercial use as cargo, passenger, or a chassis-cab van. This van is praised for its interior capacity, many available features and its driving ease.

The passenger van can seat up to twelve people using 4 rows of bench seating. The Sprinter is available in 3 lengths with option of 2 roof heights.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Van	Base Price: $36,290.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (99 l)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 232.5 in. (590.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 144.3 in. (366.5 cm)
Height: 96.3 in. (244.6 cm)	Width: 79.7 in. (202.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 5098 lbs (2312 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.9 in. (17.5 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 318 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: V6 DOHC Turbo-Diesel	Displacement: 3.0 Liter
Horsepower: 188 HP	Max RPM: 3800 RPM
Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 1400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2500 144 WB Passenger	MSRP: $40,320; MPG: NA
Option:2500 170 WB Crew	MSRP: $42,720; MPG: NA
Option:2500 170 WB Cargo	MSRP: $42,785; MPG: NA
Option:2500 170 WB Passenger	MSRP: $45,050; MPG: NA

Engine & Performance

The Sprinter is powered by a 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo-diesel that generates 188 horsepower at 3,800 rpm and 325 lbs-ft of torque at 1,400 rpm. The engine makes this van more fuel efficient than other vans, and with the ample amount of torque, the sprinter has adequate power for suburban and urban settings.

This engine is mounted on a 5-speed automatic transmission with rear wheel drive. Sequential sport shift is also standard in all trims. The Sprinter 3500 cargo models with regular wheelbase and high roof have a maximum towing ability of up to 5,358 lbs. The 2500 models can haul up to 5,000 pounds. Other performance related features include: power rack and pinion steering, independent front suspension and rear leaf springs.

Exterior

The Sprinter comes with a great rectangular exterior worth a second look. The rear doors open to the van’s full height, swinging open to 270 degrees. Standard exterior features include: 16-inch steel wheels, power locks, windows, integrated wide-angle mirrors, and one-touch triple-flash turn signals. Optional features include side doors in place of sliding door, heated windshield, roof rails, bi-xenon HID headlamps, 16-inch aluminum wheels and rain-sensing wipers.

Interior

The passenger Sprinter van accommodates 12 people comfortably, with two sitting up front and the rest sitting in the remaining three rows. Crew vans are meant to carry 5 people in addition to cargo. All in all, every model is fitted with front bucket seats. It is loaded with standard features that include: CD player, air conditioning, front seat armrests, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, and automatic climate control.

It comes available in option packages such as a mobility package, trailer hitch package, and cold climate package. The cargo Sprinter van has a maximum cargo capacity of 547 cubic ft, while the passenger van has a cargo space of 141.3 cubic feet which increases to 494 cubic ft when the seats are removed. It comes with a low step-in height than most vans, which eases getting in and out even for tall people. Loading and off-loading of cargo is also made easier.

Safety & Reliability

The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter comes with standard safety features that include front disc brakes, electronic stability control, front tow hooks, daytime running lights, driver and passenger airbags, side head airbag, brake assist, traction control and rear drum brakes.

For reliability, the Mercedes Sprinter comes backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty and a 5-year or 100,000 mile warranty for corrosion on the outer body and the powertrain. The powertrain warranty beats that of Ford E-Series.

Pros

• Optional features
• High quality interior
• Class-leading interior height
• Adequate cargo volume
• Many configurations

Cons

• Underpowered engine
• Fewer seats than competitors
• Expensive than most other vans

The 2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter provides an easy and fun to drive experience making it one of the top ranked work vans in its class. With its standard exterior and interior features, comfortable rides and more than enough cargo space, the Sprinter remains a top choice for business and transportation of people.

The GMC Savana (MSRP $38,540; 11 city / 17 hwy) and the Chevrolet Express (MSRP $38,540; 15 city / 20 hwy) also use a Turbo-diesel engine. The one difference is that the Sprinter is only a V6, while two American vans are V8s.

Overall Rating
58 out of 100

What others say:

“As you would expect, Sprinter leans considerably in fast corners. A surprisingly tight turning radius aids close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“The Sprinter is aimed at the commercial market and offers cargo and passenger versions. Developed by Mercedes-Benz’s commercial truck division, as evident by the Mercedes switchgear inside, the Sprinter is sold at Freightliner dealers as well.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter commercial van looks to challenge the monopoly held by Ford and Chevy by offering more features, more options, and better fuel economy. The Sprinter brings to market a very European idea of what a commercial vehicle should be.”KBB

“Unmatched interior size with walk-through cabin; wide variety of body styles; superior fuel economy; relatively maneuverable; huge number of features; Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship…Mercedes-Benz price; engine lacks power and towing capacity.”Edmunds

In the affordable midsize car category, the 2012 Mitsubishi Galant offers room for five, in its four-door, sedan. The Galant has two trims, the ES, and the SE, and is differentiated by interior feature additions.

While many might agree that the Galant has antiquated looks and features, it is affordable, and safe, with a lot of room for passenger comfort. The Galant has not changed much from its introduction in 2004, and resembles the Nissan Altima, but would be an adequate commuter car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $21,899.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.7 gallons (37l)	MPG: 24 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.1 in. (485.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm)
Height: 57.4 in. (145.7 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (183.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3395 lbs (1540 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L MIVEC Inline 4 SOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.5: 1
Horsepower: 160 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 157 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Sportronic®

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SE

MSRP: $24,299; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Engine

The Inline-4, 2.4-liter engine with horsepower of 160, and 157 lb-ft of torque, can get you from 0-60 miles-per-hour in 9.6 seconds. This will not beat any records, but the acceleration is adequate for commuting, or city driving. The gas engine with electronic fuel injection, and 4-speed Sportronic automatic transmission, with adaptive shift control and front wheel drive, make the ride a smooth one. The suspension is MacPherson multi-link, with coil springs.

Performance

The Galant’s city and highway performance is average for a mid-size car, and can achieve 21 mpg in the city, and 30 mpg on the highway. Mitsubishi is so confident in the Galant’s performance, that it offers one of the longest powertrain warranties in this car category. The car warranty is offered for 60 months, or 60,000 miles.

Exterior

The Galant is squared in the front and rear, with a new chrome-painted mesh grill in the front, and 16 or 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome exhaust, and chrome moldings for the automatic-on halogen headlights. The door handles, and rear spoiler are color-matched to the available colors of red in the ES trim, or red, silver, white or black in the SE trim.

Interior

The Galant ES comes equipped with automatic-on headlights, air-conditioning, cruise, compact disc player, and auxiliary jack. The SE trim is equipped with the standard features, along with a power sunroof, heated front seats, climate control, satellite radio, Bluetooth, navigation system, and rear backup camera.

The upholstery in the ES comes in gray or black fabric, with brown wood print trim, and the SE has an option for black leather seats. The cabin offers a lot of head and leg room for passengers, and 13.3 cubic feet of cargo space.

Safety & Reliability

The Galant has received high marks in safety and reliability, beginning with the 4-wheel, anti-lock brake system, with EBD Traction control. It also has stability control, tire pressure monitor, and three-point safety belts for all passengers.

The driver and front passenger airbags come in two-stage function, to go with the front and rear side curtain airbags. Mitsubishi’s confidence in the Galant is evident through its long warranty, and high performance ranking.

Features

The Galant is an affordable and spacious car for the midsize category. It has a very comfortable interior, smooth ride, and its acceleration is adequate for its engine capabilities. Unfortunately, there are a few negatives, than positives for the Galant. Many do not appreciate the outdated exterior design, and transmission, lacking the optional V-6 that the Ford Fusion (MSRP $27,225; 21 city / 27 hwy) and Mazda 6 (MSRP $20,480; 24 city / 30 hwy) offer.

The standard and technical features, and fuel economy just cannot compete with the Hyundai Sonata (MSRP $20,795; 28 city / 35 hwy) and the Volkswagen Passat (MSRP $20,590; 26 city / 32 hwy). It lacks the free factory scheduled maintenance.

Without a fresh design, or improved fuel efficiency that can compete, the other competitors offering the same standard features and more for the same price, are winning out. The media reports that the 2012 Mitsubishi Galant will be discontinued after this model.

As a sedan the Galant joins an array of other vehicles in vying for your attention, among those include the Chevrolet Malibu (MSRP $22,110; 26 city / 33 hwy), the Honda Accord (MSRP $22,280; 27 city / 34 hwy), and the Camry from Toyota (MSRP $22,600; 28 city / 35 hwy).

Overall Rating
59 out of 100

What others say:

“The Illinois-made Mitsubishi Galant has been in need of a redo for at least a few years, but it won’t be getting one–it’s one of a handful of vehicles due to be discontinued after the 2012 model year.”Car Connection

“Reasonably nimble, but Galant doesn’t control body motions as well due to suspension tuning that is soft when compared with other midsize cars.”Consumer Guide

“The Galant is a sound car that competes with better ones, and by now it is quite outdated.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Galant’s 160-horsepower, 2.4-liter 4-cylinder provides just enough oomph to drive swiftly, but certainly not enthusiastically. Ride quality is comparable to rival sedans.”KBB

“The 2012 Mitsubishi Galant remains well behind the pack due to its relatively meager power, unimpressive cabin quality and outdated styling.”Edmunds

The 2012 Lincoln MKT is a top ranked luxury midsize SUV, that features 3-row seating, refined interior, advanced technology and a sculpted exterior.

This SUV is offered in 2 trim levels: the MKT and the MKT with EcoBoost. The MKT shares its platform with the Ford Flex, and has a seating capacity for up to 7 people.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Wagon	Base Price: $44,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons (70 l)	MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 207.6 in. (527.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 117.9 in. (299.4 cm)
Height: 67.4 in. (171.2 cm)	Width: 79.9 in. (202.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4871 lbs (2209 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Max Cargo Capacity: 39.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L Duratec V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 268 HP	Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 267 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 4500* lbs (2041 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

*Properly equipped

Available Trims & Engine

Option:MKT AWD EcoBoost

MSRP: $46,295; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The MKT uses a 3.7L V6 powertrain that makes 268 horsepower and 267-lbs-ft of torque. The powertrain is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission, although you can opt for a manual shift that uses steering wheel-mounted shift paddles. This engine still manages 23 mpg in highways and 17 mpg in cities when paired with front wheel drive.

The EcoBoost trim is powered by a twin turbocharged 3.5L V6 engine that produces 355 hp and 350 lbs-ft. The engine is mounted on a standard 6-speed transmission paired with all-wheel drive system. With this, its fuel economy is estimated at about 16/21 mpg city/highway. The MKT EcoBoost goes from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds. With a class III trailer pitch, the MKT gets a maximum towing capacity of 4,500 lbs.

Exterior

This SUV comes with a trendy exterior, that catches the eyes of customers. To start with, this car is available in 8 exterior color coats ranging from white to Tuxedo black. Some of the standard exterior features include: a huge glass panel roof, LED tail lamps, winged grille, chrome shoulder line, keypad entry, 19-inch aluminum wheels, and adaptive xenon high intensity-discharge headlights.

Interior

The interior of this SUV is offered in 6 or 7-passenger configuration, all with handsome styling and made of upscale materials including genuine wood trim and leather upholstery. The base trim comes fitted with several interior features such as: rearview camera, tri-zone automatic climate control, reverse sensors, leather trimmed seats, MyKey programmable system, heated and cooled front seats, Sync communication system and power tilt steering wheel.

The EcoBoost trim has additional interior features such as: refrigerated second-row console, THX sound system, and navigation system with Sirius satellite radio. Behind the third row seats is a 17.9 cubic ft cargo capacity, which can be increased to 39.6 cubic feet after folding the third row seats; and 75.9 cubic feet after folding the second and third rows.

Safety & Reliability

The MKT has safety features that help the driver avoid collisions, and ensure the occupants safety. The Collision Warning and brake support system alerts the driver on the vehicles ahead and gets the brakes ready. In fact, this system flashes a warning on the windshield whenever the sensors detect a slow moving vehicle ahead.

Other standard safety features are: rear packing sensors and a backup camera, blind spot monitor, child safety locks, side curtain airbags for all rows, side-impact airbags for the front seats, and electronic stability system with roll stability control.

Lincoln covers this SUV with a 4-year or 50,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty on top of a 6-year or 70,000 mile engine warranty. The engine warranty beats Audi’s 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty.

Pros

• High-tech interior
• Powerful and economical EcoBoost engine
• Comfortable cabin
• Generous standard features.
• Balanced ride and handling

Cons

• Tight third-row headroom
• Polarizing exterior

In general, the 2012 Lincoln MKT is a pleasure to drive SUV that can benefit bigger families and even some business people. The suspension is well controlled, and bumps do not upset this car thereby, the rides are rather smooth and comfortable.

The Acura MDX (MSRP $43,030; 16 city / 21 hwy), Audi Q7 (MSRP $46,250; 16 city / 22 hwy), and the R Class of Mercedes Benz (MSRP $52,690; 16 city / 21 hwy) join the Lincoln MKT in this thinning market segment.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“Stretch limousines don’t have much on the 2012 Lincoln MKT, and neither does the archaic old Lincoln Town Car. This is one big crossover, made for six or seven adults, lots of cargo, and potentially, thousands of miles of exceptionally comfortable cruising.”Car Connection

“MKT has direct, well-weighted steering. Body lean is well controlled for a large vehicle, although sheer size and weight keep it from being truly nimble. The brakes are strong and responsive.”Consumer Guide

“There’s no denying that the 2012 Lincoln MKT has an exterior shape that could be called polarizing at best but, once you look past its bulbous back and step inside this 3-row people hauler, it’s all about excellent accommodations that can seat up to seven in supreme comfort.”KBB

“Though its versatility is somewhat compromised, the 2012 Lincoln MKT is a solid alternative to other luxury crossover SUVs.”Edmunds

Not so many years ago, the Audi name symbolized a car that was well built but perhaps a little dull. All that has changed recently is that the German manufacturer is now putting out a number of very desirable models.

The 2012 Eibach Audi S5 Project Car takes this a step further with a truly exclusive and eye-catching design.

Performance

Eibach is the official supplier of Audi Sport, the organization which runs the company’s hugely successful track division. This car gets its inspiration from the car raced at the DTM championship, otherwise known as the German Touring Masters – one of the most prestigious racing series in Europe.

Unusual for an edition of this nature, Eibach decided not to increase the base engine which already produces 333 horsepower, but instead concentrated on optimizing its handling abilities.

Handling

The decision to make handling and road-holding are top priorities for the Eibach S5 that has resulted in what is an exceptionally capable and rewarding car to drive.

Specially adapted Bilstein shock absorbers are mated to Pro-Kit springs, giving tremendous feedback to the driver and instilling confidence in its maneuvering and cornering ability, even at high speeds.

There are three possible combinations of wheels and tires on offer, allowing the car to be used effectively both in everyday conditions and at the track.

Style

The visual impact of Audis has improved enormously in the last few years, and a car such as the Eibach edition is almost guaranteed to be a show-stopper when passing, even at low speeds. The low-slung, sleek look to the car when seen from the side gives it a surprising amount of grace, whereas its front view is considerably more purposeful and announces the car’s presence in no uncertain manner.

A discreet S5 badge adorns the front grill, next to the famous Audi rings, while inside driver and passengers are cosseted in leather-trimmed comfort.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 182.5 in. (463.5 cm)	Wheelbase: 108.3 in. (275.1 cm)
Height: 53.9 in. (136.9 cm)	Width: 79.5 in. (202 cm)
Curb Weight: NA	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 12.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: 4.2L V8 FSI	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 354 HP	Max RPM: 7000 rpm
Torque: 325 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Tiptronic
0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds	Top Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)