The new 2012 Mazda2 is a small car packed with many standard features. This car can accommodate 5 people, comes with a well-made interior and manages to be a fun-to-drive city car.

Mazda2 is light in weight and boasts lively handling and quick steering. This car comes as 4-door subcompact hatchback, available in two trim levels: Sport and Touring.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $14,530.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.3 gallons (42 l)	MPG: 29 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 155.5 in. (394.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 98 in. (248.9 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm)	Width: 66.7 in. (169.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 2306 lbs (1046 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (12.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.5L VVT-DOHC 4 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1
Horsepower: 100 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 98 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual w/ OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Touring

MSRP: $16,020; MPG: 29 city / 35 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Mazda2 is powered by a 1.5L 4-cylinder powertrain, connected to a standard 5-speed manual transmission. Customers can also opt for a 4-speed automatic transmission that performs well even though its outdated. This engine produces 98 lbs-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm and 100 horsepower at 6,000 rpm. From a standstill, this car can go to 0 to 60 mph in 10.3 seconds with manual transmission.

The fuel economy with the manual transmission rates at 29 mpg in city and 35 mpg on highway; with the automatic transmission, the fuel economy estimates are at 28/34 mpg city/highway. Mazda2 uses a power steering system that is responsive and precise, an uncommon trait in other small cars.

Exterior

Mazda2 is available in 6 exterior color coats: Spirited green metallic, true red, aquatic blue mica, brilliant black clearcoat, liquid silver metallic, and crystal white pearl. Both trim levels feature power door mirrors, rear cargo lift-gate and 4 doors as standard exterior features.

The Touring model comes with a rear roof spoiler, fog lights, 15 inch alloy wheels, and chrome exhaust pipes. The Sport model on the other hand is fitted with 15 inch steel wheels.

Interior

The interior is nicely designed and made of good quality materials. This car has a seating capacity of 5, with the rear seat capable of accommodating tall adults. The front seats are relatively comfortable, with ample head and legroom, which is a plus for such a small car.

Standard interior features for the Sport model are: 4-speaker stereo, power locks and windows, auxiliary input jack and keyless entry. Mazda2 Touring model comes with extra and upgraded interior features such as: steering wheel that accommodates audio and cruise controls, and a 6-speaker stereo. This car has a cargo space of 13.3 cubic ft that can be increased to 27.8 cubic feet after folding the rear seats.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Mazda2 is fitted with standard safety features that ensure occupants are safe in the event of a collision. Some of these features that help include: front seat side airbags, stability and traction control, antilock brakes, child safety locks, rear head airbag and 4-wheel ABS.

For reliability, you get 24/7 roadside assistance for the first 36,000 miles or the first 3 years, whichever comes first. In addition, it backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty on top of the 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Attractive styling
• Great handling and braking
• Comfortable front seats
• Simple to operate controls
• Affordable price

Cons

• Small cargo space
• No USB or navigation system
• Subpar fuel economy
• Cramped rear seats

All in all, the 2012 Mazda2 is an affordable, fun-to-drive hatchback that comes with many unexpected features. The car is well designed, and with its reasonable all-round safety, nimble handling and comfortable interior; then this is definitely a good option for people looking for small cars.

Because of the high cost of fuel, the small vehicles have come out in droves the last few years, though frankly, they never left, this includes the Nissan Versa (MSRP $14,570; 26 city / 31 hwy), made popular by the TV show “Heroes”; the Honda Fit (MSRP $15,325; 27 city / 33 hwy), and the Toyota Yaris (MSRP $16,400; 30 city / 38 hwy).

Overall Rating
67 out of 100

What others say:

“With a zippy driving feel and good real-world gas mileage, the 2012 Mazda2 really stands out among entry-level vehicles.”Car Connection

“Among the best in class, 2 stands out for its well-controlled body lean and excellent steering feel. The 2 utilizes an electric power-steering system, which is designed to improve fuel economy.”Consumer Guide

“The Mazda2 is a subcompact hatchback about the size of the Honda Fit or Toyota Yaris.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“While its 100-horsepower won’t make the 2012 Mazda2 hatchback the quickest car in its class, its well-tuned suspension and direct power-assisted steering deliver on the “Zoom-Zoom” promise…”KBB

“The 2012 Mazda 2 offers a fun drive in an economical hatchback, but comes up short when compared to more practical competition.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-Class is a full size luxury SUV, built alongside the M-Class SUV and the R-Class wagon. The GL-Class is Mercedes’ biggest SUV that has a luxurious interior, including three rows of seating.

This SUV is available in 3 trim levels: GL350 BlueTEC model, the GL450, and GL550. All these trims have a seating capacity for 7 that goes along with the spacious cargo room.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV AWD	Base Price: $61,570.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (99 l)	MPG: 17 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 200.7 in. (509.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 121.1 in. (307.5 cm)
Height: 75.6 in. (192 cm)	Width: 85.5 in. (217.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 5512 lbs (2500 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L BlueTEC V6 DOHC Diesel	Compression Ratio: 16.5: 1
Horsepower: 210 HP	Max RPM: 3400 RPM
Torque: 400 lb-ft @ 1600-2400 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 9.1 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 7500 lbs* (3402 kgs)

*Properly equipped

Available Trims & Engine

Option:GL450 4Matic 4.6L V8	MSRP: $63,900; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:GL550 4Matic	MSRP: $86,900; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 GL has 3 powertrain options, all with standard AWD. A 3.0L turbo diesel V6 that generates 210 horsepower and 400 lbs-ft of torque, powers the base GL350 trim; which is the cheapest and the most fuel-efficient among the trims. This fuel economy is reported at 17/21 mpg city/highway. The GL450 model on the other hand uses a 4.6L, gas-powered V8 engine that produces 335 horsepower and 339 lbs-ft of torque.

This model has a fuel economy of 13 mpg in city and 18 mpg on highway. The GL550, fitted with a 5.5L V8 engine produces 391 lbs-ft of torque and 382 hp, netting a fuel economy of 12/17 mpg city/highway. In addition, all these engines are connected to a standard 7-speed automatic gearbox with manual shift control. The 2012 GL has a maximum towing capacity of 7,500 lbs.

Exterior

The design of this vehicle is not only elegant and sophisticated, but also prepares you for a spacious interior. From the rich color coats to the crisp body line, the GL-Class shows why it deserves that Mercedes logo. While the standard 20 inch alloy wheels give this SUV a rugged look, the standard tail lamps and big headlamps outline the corners for good visibility. Other standard exterior features include: twin chrome exhaust pipes, rear fenders, and enforced LED strips on each side of the lower front fascia.

Interior

The interior compliments the exterior by offering generous seating for 7, spacious cargo hold, and capable all-weather performance. There are many standard interior features fitted in the GL that include: power-folding third-row seat, powered and heated front-seats, easy to read gauges, leatherette upholstery, and stereo.

At the top of the centre stack, there is a 7-inch display housing the controls and buttons for entertainment and vehicle system functions. A standard hard drive-based navigation system on the GL 550 trim, is optional on other trims. Optional power lift-gate makes loading and off-loading of cargo easier. Behind the third row, there is a 14.3 cubic ft of cargo room, which increases to 43.8 when third row seats are folded and reaches a maximum of 83.2 cubic ft when the second and third rows are folded.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 GL-Class comes with an active suspension damping that feels sportier in handling. Add to this, there are numerous standard safety features that ensures the occupants arrive safely to their destination, otherwise, keep them safe in the event of a collision. One of the key safety features is the Collision Prevention Assist, which warns the driver on a slow moving traffic.

Other features include: Adaptive brake assist, crosswind assist pre-safe that prepares this vehicle for a collision, electronic stability control, Parktronic system with active park assist, rear body airbag, rear head airbag, passenger airbag, rear head airbag, rear view camera, Attention assist that warns the driver when he or she starts dozing, and adaptive high-beam assist.

Optional safety features include: active blind spot assist, adaptive cruise control and active lane keeping assist. The GL is backed with a 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty including bumper to bumper and the engine coverage.

Pros

• Fuel-sipping diesel engine
• Standard all-wheel drive
• Great handling than most rivals
• High quality interior
• Many standard safety features

Cons

• Less cargo space than other full-size SUVs
• Standard features list is shorter than rivals

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL-class treats the occupants to a first-class accommodation. It balances performance and comfort than what most people might expect. With its powerful engine, luxurious cabin and roomy seating; the GL-Class can be regarded as an excellent choice for people looking for a family luxury SUV.

This is where you separate the brave from the meek, depending on your personality, you may opt for any of these choices along with the GL, the Infiniti QX (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy), the Range Rover Sport from Land Rover (MSRP $60,045; 13 city / 18 hwy), or the Porsche Cayenne Turbo-diesel (MSRP $55,750; 20 city / 28 hwy). You can’t go wrong with any of these.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The Mercedes-Benz GL Class isn’t quite as spacious as the largest Suburbans and Navigators. Still, it’s quite a large vehicle, with room for seven people when it’s pressed to the maximum its two-bucket, two-bench seating arrangement will allow.”“Car Connection

“Steering is accurate and direct. The GL550, however, tends to tramline along channels in the road and can skitter sideways in bumpy corners, compromising the sure-footed security of the other GLs. In fast turns on smooth surfaces, the GL550 has tenacious grip and relatively little body lean, but all GLs stay flatter in corners than most large SUVs. One test GL450 had a mushy brake-pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“This seven-passenger luxury SUV has a roomy interior, and a third-row seat big enough for adults. The smooth 4.6-liter V8 delivers strong performance and 15 mpg overall.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“When tested through variable real-world environments, including some seriously sharp curves and an aggressive off-road path, the 2012 GL450 handled itself quite well.”KBB

“Excellent V8 performance; high standard of luxury; comfortable and quiet seating for seven; fuel-efficient diesel engine…More expensive than competitors; non-adjustable second-row seats; antiquated COMAND interface.”Edmunds

London-based luxury carmaker, Eterniti Motors, recently unveiled the world’s first ‘Super-SUV’ named the 2012 Eterniti Artemis.

‘Super-SUV’ is a term coined by Eterniti to describe the new range of high-class SUV vehicles that provide a high level of performance, are highly exclusive and extremely lavish and luxurious.

By summer 2012, this model will be in the production line and out on the market before Maserati’s, Lamborghini’s and Bentley’s super-SUV offerings. Vehicle deliveries are expected to begin in the fall.

Exterior

The exterior is surprisingly customizable. The Artemis’ body panels are made from carbon composite material; hand built and come finished in a wide variety of paint colors.

Depending upon your panel color of choice, complimentary chrome trim colors and styles are added. Ultra-low 315/25 tires and 23″ forged alloy wheels, that are super-lightweight and also come with a vast range of alloy rim styles, are also offered with the new super-SUV.

Interior

The rear-cabin’s interior is similar to a limousine and features 100 mm of extra leg room, twin recliners complete with heating and cooling features, iPad holders and a beverage cooler.

This super-SUV is suitable for chauffeuring and is also a great vehicle to drive for pleasure. This SUV offers better handling than limousines on poor terrain, due to the ride height. The 2012 Artemis is a limo/SUV crossover that makes travelling in style on poor road surfaces much easier.

The finest leathers have been used in the interior along with quilted under carpets, lambs wool rugs, natural wood veneers and boot trip. There’s also a range of sun roof choices, starlight roof lining to add that extra touch of extravagance and a top-of-the-range audio system.

Engine

The 4.8 Liter V8 Twin-Turbo engine in the Eterniti Artemis produces 600hp+ and 553 lb ft of torque. It allows the super-SUV to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds, despite the large size of the vehicle. The Artemis top speed exceeds 180 miles per hour.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport SUV

Est. Market Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 191.9 in. (487.6 cm)	Wheelbase: NA
Height: 66.1 in. (168 cm)	Width: 80.9 in. (205.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: V8 TwinTurbo 4WD	Displacement: 4.8 Liter
Horsepower: 600 HP	Max RPM: 6000 rpm
Torque: 553 lb-ft @ 2400-6400 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds	Top Speed: 180 mph (289.5 km/h)

Reviewers and test drivers were ambivalent about the 2012 Lincoln MKS. Though they liked the large luxury vehicle’s roomy interior and features, they found the handling boring and interior materials as the anti-Lincoln.

The car is for someone who enjoys a big luxury vehicle with sufficient room, power, luxury, and is willing to meet with its financial demands that come with owning one.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $41,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.7 gallons (70 l)	MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 204.1 in. (518.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.9 in. (286.7 cm)
Height: 61.6 in. (156.4 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4151 lbs (1882 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 18.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L Duratec V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 274 HP	Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs* (454 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

*Properly equipped

Available Trims & Engine

Option:MKS AWD	MSRP: $43,390; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:MKS EcoBoost AWD	MSRP: $48,390; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine

Some were disappointed with the base model’s lack of power. You can opt for the MKS EcoBoost. The base model and the EcoBoost have different engines, though they both offer a six speed automatic transmission that comes with paddle shifters.

Some complained that the paddle can’t be used unless the car is in manual, and the transmission downshifts too much on the base model. The base car, which has front wheel drive, has a 3.7 liter V6 engine that delivers 273 horsepower and 270 lbs ft of torque, while the EcoBoost has a 3.5 liter twin turbo V6 engine that brings 355 horsepower and 350 lbs ft of torque. All wheel drive is standard in this model. Both trims of the 2012 Lincoln MKS get 17 miles per gallon in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

Performance

Because of its wishy-washy handling, the MKS can’t really compete with most other cars in its class. Reviewers claim the all wheel drive version of the car handles a bit better than the front wheel drive version, but all wheel drive also slows the acceleration.

Not only is the handling dull, but the ride is rougher than it should be. The car also has a large and unwieldy turning radius. The brakes, however, seemed to be competent.

Exterior

Reviewers liked the 2012 Lincoln MKS’ doughty, gleaming looks. The grillwork got especially high marks for esthetics. At least on the outside, the MKS looks like the luxury car that it is.

Interior

Reviewers really appreciated the MKS’ passenger and cargo space. There’s lots of head and leg room for five grown-ups. The car also has leather seats, a moon roof, USB ports, heated back seats, a power sunshade for the rear, a state of the art THX surround sound audio system and climate control that covers the front seats. Inspite of all these goodies, reviewers complained that the MKS lacks the flair of a luxury car.

Frankly, according to these test drivers, the interior trim sported too much hard plastic. The trunk is capacious, with 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space. The drawback was that its opening is small and so it might be challenging to load big items, and the car’s interior doesn’t have adequate small item storage.

Safety

The 2012 Lincoln MKS got quite high marks for safety, though it hasn’t been fully tested by the federal government. However, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety chose the 2012 Lincoln MKS as a top safety pick and gave it its highest marks in all tests. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration only gave the car its rollover test, where it scored a four out of five.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the MKS a three and half out of five rating for reliability. It has a four year or 50,000 mile warranty and a six year of 70,000 mile powertrain warranty.

Pros

Reviewers loved the MKS’ comfortable space and cargo capacity.

The Lincoln MKS can be compared to two other vehicles, the Lexus GS (MSRP $46,900; 19 city / 28 hwy) and the Infiniti M (MSRP $47,700; 18 city / 26 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“This is no Continental: the Lincoln MKS has big-car interior room, sure, but the cabin’s awash in high-dollar trim and the seats are hours-long comfortable.”Car Connection

“Handling is competent, but neither athletic nor fun. MKS is predictable and composed in most driving situations. All-wheel drive offers improved grip. The steering is tuned for comfortable cruising, rather than sporty response. ”Consumer Guide

“The Blind Spot Information System (BLIS) is now optional on the Lincoln MKS. The system acts as a digital eye, detecting when vehicles move into the Lincoln’s blind spots and alerting the driver via a light on the side mirrors.”KBB

“Spacious interior; plentiful standard features; good power and fuel economy from the turbocharged V6… Lackluster base V6; strange combination of soggy handling and firm ride; mediocre interior materials; overpriced for what you get.”Edmunds

The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque, is ranked as one of the top Luxury Compact SUVs. The Evoque is in fact a Land Rover that is smaller than the LR2, in relation to size.

Just like other Land Rovers, it contains a Terrain Response system which allows you to adjust the suspension and engine responses in accordance to the road conditions.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $43,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 l)	MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 171.5 in. (435.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.8 in. (266.1 cm)
Height: 64.4 in. (163.5 cm)	Width: 77.4 in. (196.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3680 lbs (1669 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 20.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16 Valve I4 DOHC Turbo	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 251 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds	Maximum Speed: 135 mph (217 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Dynamic	MSRP: $51,495; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:Prestige	MSRP: $52,395; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:Coupe Pure	MSRP: $44,995; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:Coupe Dynamic	MSRP: $52,895; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy

Engine & Performance

The engine of this small SUV separates itself from its rivals. It is powered by a 2.0L inline turbo 4-cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower and 251 lbs-ft of torque. One of the Evoque’s key performance features is the standard terrain response system which makes this SUV to stand out on top of other small SUVs.

This powertrain is mounted on a 6-speed automatic transmission and connected to a full time 4-wheel drive and direct gas injection for better performance. With all these great engine features, the Evoque is able to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 7.1 seconds with a top speed of 135 mph. The handling is ranked as the best among all Land Rover on-roads. This is due to its short wheel base and low center of gravity.

Exterior

The first thing that will catch your eyes is the front end that is basically Range Rover, with an audacious cheese grater grille and bold hood. The steeply raked windshield leads to a low roofline tapering downward towards the rear of the car. This design makes it appear sporty.

The 4-door model is available in 3 trim levels: Prestige, Dynamic and Pure trims. The 2-door coupe on the other hand, is available in just Pure and Dynamic trim levels. The Evoque is available in 12 color coats ranging from Firenze red to Baltic blue to Galway green just to mention a few.

Other standard exterior features include: 20 inch wheels, power lift-gate, panoramic moonroof, and contrasting roof colors.

Interior

The interior of the Evoque is filled with features found in other Land Rovers. For instance, the cabin is fully stocked with standard features like 2 USB ports and Bluetooth.

Other features fitted are: leather wrapped steering wheel, 8-inch touch screen, Meridian sound system, 5 inch color LCD driver information center, and climate control for the rear seats.

Optional interior features include: satellite and HD radio, navigation and rear seat entertainment systems. The 2-door coupe model has a maximum cargo space of 47.6 cubic feet, while the 4-door model has is at 51 cubic feet.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Evoque is equipped with standard safety equipment. It starts with the steel monocoque frame which is toughened with high strength and Boron steel and is complemented by crash beams in all passenger doors.

Additional safety features include: seven airbags that include driver’s knee airbag and full length curtain airbag, rain sensing wipers, 4-wheel disc brakes, brake assist, automatic and adaptive headlights, traction and stability control systems. Optional safety features available are: rear sensors for parking maneuvers and 5-camera surround view system.

Pros

• Great handling and braking
• Many standard features

Cons

• Modest cargo hold
• High base price.

Comparison

The 2012 Evoque offers more character that other cars in its class. In fact, it dominates deserts and mountains with ease, making it a preferred small SUV of choice to many.

There are a number of attractive SUVs that the Range Rover Evoque can be compared to, they include the Lexus RX 350 (MSRP $39,310; 18 city / 25 hwy), the Nissan Murano (MSRP $44,540; 17 city / 22 hwy), and the Audi Q5 (MSRP $35,600; 20 city / 27 hwy).

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

“The era of truly coupe-like SUVs dawns, finally, and the 2012 Range Rover Evoque nails it with turbo thrust and carlike handling.”Car Connection

“On road, Evoque feels carlike and agile, maneuvering around tight corners with little body lean. The steering feels light and lifeless around town, but firms up well at higher speeds. Evoque shines off-road. Tenacious all-wheel drive hardware, Land Rover’s Terrain Response System, and Hill-Descent Control allow Evoque to capably maneuver through almost anything you can throw at it.”Consumer Guide

“The Evoque, a new Land Rover model based on the LR2, offers 2-door and 4-door versions. It is powered by a Ford-supplied 240-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a six-speed automatic. In our tests it returned 21 mpg overall.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“You’ll like the 2012 Range Rover Evoque if you want a seriously stylish luxury SUV that drives well in the city, but isn’t afraid of the wilderness. The new Evoque also returns up to 28 mpg on the highway, a number inconceivable in anything else wearing a Range Rover badge.”KBB

“It’s not the most practical SUV on Earth, but the 2012 Range Rover Evoque has a lot of style, refined driving manners and the traditional Land Rover off-road talents to make it a very appealing compact luxury SUV.”Edmunds