The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, is available in 2-wheel and 4-wheel drive configurations and in 5 trims: Limited, Laredo, Laredo X, Overland and SRT8.

The Grand Cherokee retains Jeep’s famous off-road prowess while still offering numerous luxurious and technical improvements. It is a combination of comfort, on-road poise and off-road power.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $27,195.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons (93 l)	MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.8 in. (482 cm)	Wheel Base: 114.8 in. (291.5 cm)
Height: 68.1 in. (172.9 cm)	Width: 76.5 in. (194.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 4470 lbs (2027 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.6 in. (21.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 35.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-Valve V6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 290 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Laredo X 4×2	MSRP: $34,495; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Altitude 4×2	MSRP: $35,795; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Limited 4×2	MSRP: $36,795; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Overland 4×2	MSRP: $39,895; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Overland Summit 4×2	MSRP: $43,495; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Laredo 4×4	MSRP: $29,195; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:Altitude 4×4	MSRP: $37,795; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:Limited 4×4	MSRP: $39,295; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:Overland 4×4	MSRP: $43,395; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:Overland Summit 4×4	MSRP: $46,995; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:SRT8® 4×4	MSRP: $61,160; MPG: 12 city / 18 hwy

Engine & Performance

All trim levels except the SRT8 use a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. You can get 23 mpg on highway. The engine is mounted on a 5-speed automatic transmission, which enables the Cherokee to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 8.2 seconds.

An optional 5.7L V8, 360 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque comes mounted on a 6-speed automatic transmission. The SRT8 model uses a 6.4L V8 produces 470 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque. The SRT8 is capable of goiong from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The 2012 Grand Cherokee can tow up to 7,400 pounds when appropriately equipped.

Exterior

Among the key exterior features are the dual-pane panoramic sunroof with a power sliding glass, front panel, and an unchanging power sunshade glass panel in the rear. Exterior features include: automatic headlights, fog lamps, auto dimming rearview mirror and 17 inch alloy wheels.

The exterior is available in seven color coats including: white gold clear, true blue pearl, deep cherry red crystal, brilliant black crystal, bright silver metallic clear coat among others.

Interior

The Grand Cherokee features a stylish cabin with cleanly styled tight seams using high quality materials. The front seats give sufficient support and are very comfortable. The seats in the rear likewise provide comfort. The seats benefit from perfect cushioning and have ample leg and knee room.

You can get as much as 35 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, which can be increased to 69 cubic feet when the seats are folded. Some of the features offered in the Grand Cherokee are: an infotainment system that comes with 30gb hard drive navigation system, adaptive cruise control unit, heated steering wheel, cooled vented front seats, cargo cover, rear seat DVD entertainment and UConnect wireless connectivity.

Safety & Reliability

The Grand Cherokee is fitted with many safety and security features for optimum safety when driving. All models have standard full length side curtain airbags, driver and passenger pelvic and thorax airbags. The safety is further pronounced by the high strength steel and door guard.

The Adaptive Cruise control and Warning control unit is also fitted in the Cherokee to make sure that you are out of danger when driving in the Grand Cherokee. For instance, the adaptive cruise control will reduce cruising speed automatically to keep a preset distance between the Cherokee and the vehicle ahead of it.

Other safety features include: front tow hooks, electronic stability control, child safety locks and traction control. The Grand Cherokee is backed by a 3-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty in addition to the 5-year or 100,000 mile warranty for the engine. This warranty is better than that of Ford’s powertrain cover.

Pros

• Legendary off-road capabilities.
• Enough rear-seat space.
• Luxury interior features.
• High tow rating.
• Available V8 power.

Cons

• Fussy optional navigation system.
• Poor fuel economy.
• Dated 5-speed transmission.

Competition

Overall, the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is suitable for those looking for family SUVs. Its off-road and on-road capabilities make it an off-road SUV of choice to many.

The Grand Cherokee set the standard for the creation of the SUV market, among those who have entered the fray include the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $29,660; 17 city / 24 hwy), the Ford Explorer (MSRP $28,280; 18 city / 25 hwy), and the Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,395; 18 city / 24 hwy).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee only gets better this year with the addition of the SRT8’s thundering HEMI V-8.”Car Connection

“The steering is accurate with good road feel and just enough power assist. Handling is reasonably car-like for an off-road-flavored SUV. Body lean is well controlled, though you have to slow down quite a bit before a fast turn.”Consumer Guide

“The Grand Cherokee is a pleasant, upscale vehicle. It has a supple and controlled ride, and handling is relatively agile.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you envision using your SUV for both “sport” and “utility,” the 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee is tough to beat. In the Snowbelt Jeep’s three 4WD systems provide needed security through all four seasons, while the Grand Cherokee’s 2WD system and its rear-wheel-drive (RWD) architecture provide a balance of handling and traction not (typically) available in front-wheel-drive crossovers.”KBB

“Available V8 power; high tow rating; upscale interior with many available luxury features; capable off-road prowess; outlandish SRT8 model…Somewhat limited cargo space; fussy optional navigation system.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a sports car that features stability and traction control as standard safety features on all models. This 2-seat roadster is available in 3 trim levels: the base Sport, mid-range Touring, and Grand Touring.

A Special Edition is also available, but only 450 are being produced. The MX-5 Miata which is relatively small, lightweight and affordable; comes equipped with many standard features.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Base Price: $23,470.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.7 gallons (48 l)	MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 157.3 in. (399.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 91.7 in. (232.9 cm)
Height: 49 in. (124.4 cm)	Width: 67.7 in. (171.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 2447 lbs (1110 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.6 in. (11.6 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 5.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L VVT-DOHC 4 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 10.8: 1
Horsepower: 167 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Touring-Auto	MSRP: $25,830; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Grand Touring-MT	MSRP: $27,100; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Special Edition-Auto	MSRP: $31,225; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy

Engine & Performance

All MX-5 Miata models use a 2.0 liter 4-cylinder engine that makes 167 hp at 7,000 rpm on manual transmission, and 140 lbs-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. Automatic models on the other hand, produce 158 hp at 6,700 rpm. The base Miata sport’s engine is mounted on a 5-speed manual gearbox, while the touring and the Grand Touring trims have a standard 6-speed manual gearbox.

An optional 6-speed automatic gearbox with steering wheel that mounts manual shift paddles is also available for all trim levels. A Miata using the 5-speed manual gearbox can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.9 seconds. The fuel economy estimates at 22/28 mpg city/highway.

Exterior

The car looks athletic, with a standard soft-top although you can opt for a retractable hardtop. Some of the standard exterior features include: smile-shaped grille, 16-inch wheels, and exhaust pipes which flush with rear bumper. Notable optional features include: 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, power door locks, and high-intensity discharge headlights. The MX5 Miata is available in five color coats including: true red, liquid silver metallic, copper red mica, stormy blue mica and brilliant black clear coat.

Interior

The Miata comes with a functional dash design and supportive seats, with the two seat configuration providing ample driver space than anticipated. The gauges are readable and the controls are well placed and easy to use. Notable standard features include: air conditioning, leather draped steering wheel, and cloth upholstery. Optional features are: heated seats, steering wheel that mounts audio and cruise controls, and leather seats. The Miata has a cargo room of 5.3 cubic feet.

Safety & Reliability

This sports car is fitted with several standard safety features that guarantee safety to the occupants in the event of a collision. Some of these safety features are: side airbags, electronic stability system with traction control, passenger airbag On/Off switch, driver and passenger airbags, 4-wheel ABS, emergency trunk release and antilock disc brakes.

The 2012 MX-5 Miata has admirable reliability. It starts with roadside assistance for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles. In addition, the Miata is backed with a 3-year or 36,000 mile limited warranty as well as 5-year or 60,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Superb steering handling
• Fun to drive
• Low operating costs
• Low price
• Good reliability history
• Available retractable hardtop

Cons

• Small trunk
• Cramped interior
• Disappointing stereo

In general, if you are looking for a lightweight, rear-wheel drive convertible, then the 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata will be the best option for you. This car offers a fun driving experience, and with the properly positioned pedals, steering wheel, shifter and other controls; then it’s no wonder that this sports car attracts the attention of many customers. In summary, it is simple to live with car which is very comfortable even for long journeys.

There are few convertibles that can be compared to the MX-5, first is the American favorite Ford Mustang (MSRP $27,310; 19 city / 29 hwy), then comes the Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder (MSRP $27,999; 20 city / 27 hwy), then the high-end BMW Z4 (MSRP $48,650; 22 city / 34 hwy) which gets the best mileage.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“Given the MX-5 Miata’s exterior dimensions, you might expect the interior to be tiny, and you wouldn’t be wrong, but you wouldn’t be entirely correct, either. The MX-5 uses its interior volume with surprising efficiency, allowing even drivers over six feet in height to comfortable drive or ride in comfort.”Car Connection

“MX-5’s steering is quick and precise, though some testers find it unduly heavy at low-to-moderate speeds.”Consumer Guide

“Handling is super agile, with quick, precise steering, and the Miata is balanced at its limits.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“There is nothing about the 2012 Mazda Miata convertible that we don’t like.”KBB

“The 2012 Mazda Miata maintains its position as one of the all-time great roadsters, mixing refinement and excitement in an affordable, compact package.”Edmunds

After Bugatti’s success with the 16.4 Super Sports car, an open-top, soaped-up Grand Sport was inevitable.

Not long after the Super Sport launch, Bugatti started receiving inquiries about whether there would be a Grand Sport version and they were instantly drawn to the idea.

Alas, the 2012 Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse in Black and Red.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 175.6 in. (446.2 cm)	Wheelbase: 106.6 in. (271 cm)
Height: 47.4 in. (120.4 cm)	Width: 78.6 in. (199.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 4387 lbs (1990 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA

Performance

Engine: W16 Turbo	Displacement: 8.0 liter
Horsepower: 1200 HP	Max RPM: 6400 rpm
Torque: 927 lbs-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed DSG
0-60 mph: 2.6 seconds	Top Speed: 255 mph (410 km/h)

Performance

Wolfgang Durheimer, Bugatti’s president said, “This will take the Grand Sport roadster to a completely new level, enhancing it so that it can deliver a previously unprecedented amount of hp. The Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Vitesse is officially the fastest roadster, as it delivers 1,200 hp.”

Between 3,000 and 5,000 rpm, the Vitesse boasts 1106 lbs ft of torque from the 7.9L W16 engine. Maximum output isn’t reached until 6,400 rpm when the hp reaches 1,200.

This allows the Bugatti Veyron Grand Sport Black and Red car to get to 60 mph from 0 in a staggering 2.6 seconds. With a top speed of approximately 255mph, this Bugatti Veyron is the fastest roadster on the market by far.

Turbochargers

The 199 hp increase that has been achieved with the Grand Sport was mainly achieved via a modified drive train and the installation of larger turbochargers. Four turbochargers have been installed, each larger than the turbochargers in previous models, complete with new intercoolers.

All components of the drive train have been reinforced extensively to enable the safe transfer of the massive amount of energy the Vitesse is more than capable of creating.

Aerodynamics

A number of measures have been taken to decrease buffeting and wind noise while travelling at high speeds in the black and red Bugatti Veyron Vitesse.

The roof spoiler has been added as well as a new, compact windbreak that can be stowed easily inside the car when not being used. Both of these features are also available for Bugatti’s Grand Sport.

You may recognize some of the added aerodynamic features from the Super Sport’s rear and front; many of the same components have been adapted for the Vitesse too.

On the front of the Bugatti Veyron Vitesse you’ll find large air intakes and a new front spoiler while on the back, you’ll see a twin tailpipe that’s been centrally positioned and a characteristic double diffuser.

People liked the 2012 Infiniti EX35 for its powerful and lively performance, stylish and sophisticated interior, and overall good looks, but its lack of space for cargo and passengers does not make it good choice as a family SUV.

It does offer features that you have come to expect from Infiniti. If you are not concerned about hauling more than a party of 5, then the EX35 will certainly serve that purpose.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $35,800.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (76 l)	MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 183.2 in. (465.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.2 in. (279.9 cm)
Height: 61.9 in. (157.2 cm)	Width: 71 in. (180.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3753 lbs (1702 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve V6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 297 HP	Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 253 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:EX35 AWD	MSRP: $37,200; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:EX35 Journey	MSRP: $38,100; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:EX35 Journey AWD	MSRP: $39,500; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Engine

The car comes with standard rear wheel drive, but you have the option for all-wheel drive. This SUV comes with a 3.5 liter V6 engine that delivers 297 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 253 lbs-ft of torque along with a seven speed automatic transmission. The one complaint was that the powerful engine can be too loud.

Performance

Test drivers love the crisp way the EX35 handles, its sporty but easeful and balanced ride and fast acceleration. It gets 17 miles per gallon in the city and 24 miles per gallon on the highway, whether or not it has all wheel drive.

Exterior

The Infiniti EX35 comes in a base trim and a Journey Trim. The Infiniti EX35 was praised by reviewers for its handsome looks.

Interior

The EX35 gets high marks for its aesthetically pleasing and sophisticated features. It has HomeLink, a system which links into the driver’s home security system and can remotely open most garage doors. The seats come upholstered in leather and are comfortable.

Some think the back seats to be cramped even for average sized adults and it’s hard to see out the rear. Others found the features in the Infiniti EX35 satisfactory, especially in the Journey trim. The base trim comes with a satellite radio, USB ports, a rearview camera, and push button start. Better yet, they’re easy to operate.

In the Journey, you will enjoy a telescopic steering wheel with power tilt, Bluetooth and an optional, state of the art navigation system and Bose audio system. Unfortunately, the X35’s Achilles heel is its cargo space. It offers only 18.6 cubic feet of space when all the seats are up. This is unacceptable for most reviewers.

Safety

This Infiniti gets high marks for safety. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives it “good” ratings for all tests and is considered a top safety pick. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives it four out of five stars for the rollover test, other safety tests scores are not yet available.

Reliability

J.D. Power and Associates gave the EX35 three and a half out of five rating, which means puts it as above average. The car comes with a number of warranties, including the basic warranty of four years/60,000 miles, the powertrain warranty is for six years/70,000 miles. The car also comes with seven years and unlimited miles for rust protection and a ten year and unlimited miles warranty for seat belts.

Pros

Reviewers really appreciate the way the EX35 handles. They also liked the high-tech features and the classy interior.

Cons

Lack of space is the main complaint. It’s also hard to see out of the back windshield.

Comparisons

The EX is considered one by many as an entry level option as far as SUVs are concerned. Choices for people who are in the market for a Luxury Compact SUV with more cargo and passenger space are the Acura RDX (MSRP $32,895; 19 city / 24 hwy), the Lincoln MKX (MSRP $39,545; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the Volvo XC60 (MSRP $35,800; 19 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“With tight rear seats and a small cargo area, the 2012 Infiniti EX35 is less like a sporty crossover, more like a high-riding sports sedan.”Car Connection

“EX corners well and exhibits only slightly more body lean than G37. A relatively tight turning radius aids in low-speed maneuvering. The optional Lane Departure Prevention system uses subtle braking impulses and beeps to alert driver of potential wandering at speeds above 45 mph and then corrects the vehicle’s direction. The brakes are smooth and strong.”Consumer Guide

“The EX is essentially a G wagon, with similar agile handling and a steady ride. The engine is powerful, making the EX quick.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Infiniti EX35 rides and handles very much like the G37 sedan from which it’s derived, and that’s a highly-commendable trait.”KBB

“Zesty handling and acceleration; compliant ride; classy cabin; sleek styling; versatile hatchback body style…Limited cargo capacity for a crossover; cramped rear legroom.”Edmunds

The 2012 GMC Canyon is a practical and versatile truck that comes available in two or four wheel drive.

This compact to mid size pickup looks attractive with its rugged styling. It isn’t one of the fancy trucks but it certainly offers value that can’t be overlooked. It can be easily compared to its twin, the Chevy Colorado.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Truck	Base Price: $17,490.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (71.9l)	MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 192.4 in. (488.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.3 in. (282.7 cm)
Height: 65.2 in. (165.6 cm)	Width: 67.6 in. (171.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 3366 lbs (1526 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.7 in. (19.5 cm)
Maximum Towing: 3400 lbs (1542 kg)	Maximum Seating: 3 people

Performance

Engine: Inline 4 2WD DOHC	Displacement: 2.9 Liter
Horsepower: 185 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 190 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SLE-1	MSRP: $20,455; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:SLE-2 3.7L Inline-5 Crew 4WD	MSRP: $26,470; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:SLT 3.7L Inline-5 Crew 4WD	MSRP: $31,790; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Canyon is available in three trims with three choices of engines. The base trim is the WT (Work Truck) gives you a basic 3.7 liter, 4 cylinder that provides you with 185 hp and 190 ft-lbs of torque with variable valve timing. You can expect 17 mpg city and 23 mpg highway

The second is the SLE gives you a little more to go on with it’s 3.7 liter 5 cylinder 242 hp as well as the other performance features that you find in the work truck trim. Fuel economy is still good at 17 mpg city and 23mpg highway.

GMC gives you a V8 that provides the power you need for hauling or towing. The 300 hp and 320 lbs-ft of torque improves the power and performance. The V8 is available in extended and crew cab models.

The four cylinders come with either a 4 speed manual or 4 speed automatic transmission while the 5 cylinder and the V8 both come with the automatic.

Exterior

Regardless of the trim you select, the GMC Canyon is a great looking truck with chrome bumpers and metallic paint. The daytime running lights and luxury trim including the titanium look on the doors is certain to catch your eye.

The halogen headlights along with impressive lines are what you would expect from GMC, stylish and innovative. Let’s not forget to mention the straight side bed with a standard rugged bed liner to protect the bed, it does minimize load shifting.

Interior

The interior is not as fancy as others in its class. It come standard with a front split bench that has room for the driver and two passengers. The front reading lights and voice navigation system are nice features to have, as is the leather trimmed tilt steering wheel and the Onstar telematics.

Safety & Reliability

The safety features are standard in all trims. The driver side and passenger air bags are just the beginning of the safety features provided by this truck. Side and rear head air bags as well as traction control and electronic stability control, front disc and rear drum brakes provide driver and passengers’ piece of mind.

It comes with a standard 3 year / 36,000 mile basic warranty as well as 5 year / 100,000 mile drive train warranty and a 6 year / 100,000 Mile rust warranty.

Pros & Cons

• The affordable price makes this a good starter truck
• Good on and off road handling
• Engine choices.

Cons

• Seating comfort leaves something to be desired.
• Average safety scores,poor fuel economy in the V8 models.

Whether or not you like this truck will depend on what you are looking for in a pickup. Although the 2012 GMC Canyon is a decent truck, you may find yourself comparing it to the likes of the Toyota Tacoma (MSRP $18,025; 19 city / 24 hwy) and the Nissan Frontier King Cab V6 (MSRP $23,940; 15 city / 20 hwy). These two are perhaps the closest in terms of size that the Canyon can be compared to. They may cost a little more but are worth looking into.

Overall Rating
54 out of 100

What others say:

“Crash test scores are a concern, but it you’re shopping for a truly compact pickup truck, the 2012 GMC Canyon is probably a better pick than the Ranger or Dakota.”Car Connection

“Canyons corner with reasonable poise, though some testers find these trucks slow to react to steering inputs. Good straightline stability. 4WD models have a noticeably larger turning radius than 2WD versions. The brakes provide quick stops with good pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“The unrefined five-cylinder engine lacks punch and doesn’t offer a fuel-economy advantage over competing V6s.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 GMC Canyon looks sharp and offers good light-duty pickup truck value. But in just about every other area, it doesn’t measure up to its competition.”Edmunds

“If you’re looking for a simple, clean and inexpensive compact pickup to be used the way a compact pickup was intended (working, not cruising), the 2012 GMC Canyon is about as no-nonsense as you can get.”KBB