The 2012 GMC Savana is a functional van that offers several passenger seats and loads of drivetrain configurations. The engineering design of this van is created in a way that 15 people can comfortably ride in it.

It is also capable of transporting enormous amounts of cargo, which includes building materials. Basically, the Savana is a work-horse.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Passenger Van	Base Price: $28,940.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117l)	MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 224.1 in. (569.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 135 in. (342.9 cm)
Height: 83.7 in. (212.5 cm)	Width: 79.2 in. (201.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 5526 lbs (2506 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.4 in. (18.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 92.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: V8 OHV	Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 310 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 334 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 6200 lbs (2812 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:1LT Passenger RWD	MSRP: $30,790; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy
Option:1LS Passenger AWD	MSRP: $32,495; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy
Option:1LT Passenger AWD	MSRP: $34,345; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy
Option:Savana Cargo 4.3L V6	MSRP: $25,090; MPG: xx city / xx hwy
Option:Savana Cargo 5.3L V8 AWD	MSRP: $32,495; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy

Engine & Performance

There are three Vortec V8 engine options for the Savana. These engines are a 4.8 liter V8 VVT, Vortec 5.3 V8 VVT, and Vortec 6.0 V8 VVT. The 1500 series are fitted with the 5.3L engines and backed by a 4-speed automatic transmission.

The 2500 series on the other hand are available with a 4.8L engine, 280hp and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 3500 series comes with 6.0L engine that is connected to a 6-speed automatic transmission. Other engine options are: Vortec 4.3 V6, Duramax 6.6 liter V8 Turbo diesel and 6.0 liter V8 compressed natural gas.

The performance of this van is improved by the inclusion of tow or haul mode feature, which offers a dual mode shift program which enables you to hold gears longer; providing more torque and even transition between gears on hilly roads. This feature also enables you to activate automatic grade braking and reduces excess shifting.

Exterior

The look of the 2012 Savana is appealing, which is a result of its focused engineering. First of all, the 3-layer glass and the sliding doors enhance the safety of the passengers. The LT models come with a standard chrome rear and front bumpers and grille; and halogen composite headlamps.

The Savana Cargo vans are fitted with exterior lift panels that provide an all-round access to the storage bins. These panels can be operated from a distance using a remote control. The base models are available in 16 or 17 inch steel wheels, while the LT models are available in 17-inch alloy wheels.

Interior

The interior design of the Savana is basic, with clear and easy to operate controls and gauges. The 1500 series passenger van comes with a standard 15-seat capacity configuration, while the 3500 and 2500 series come with a standard 12 seat capacity.

The 3500 long-wheelbase series can be fitted with an additional row of seats that extend the seating capacity to 15. All the rear seats have three sets of connectors for child safety seats. Some of the standard interior features on Ls trims are: AM/FM stereo and air conditioning.

LT models have addition interior features like heating and cooling for the rear row seats, power windows and door locks. other optional interior features include: remote ignition, Bluetooth, towing package, USB/iPod interface and heated mirrors.

Safety & Reliability

The GMC Savana vans are fitted with standard antilock brakes and stability control, to improve on the safety of the driver and passengers. Other safety features in the passenger vans include OnStar emergency communication, traction control, driver and passenger airbags, daytime running lights, integrated turn signal mirrors and side curtain airbags.

As for reliability, the GMC Savana is backed by a 3 year or 36,000 miles basic limited warranty, in addition to the 5-year or 100,000 miles engine warranty. The power train warranty does better than some of its competitors.

Pros

• Wide range of engine lineup
• High available seating capacity.
• All-wheel drive option.

Cons

• Cheap cabin plastics.
• Poor fuel economy.
• Not easy to maneuver.

In conclusion, the 2012 GMC Savana can be very effective to business people especially those in hotel industry while transporting their guests. Big families can also benefit from the high seating capacity; while the cargo vans will not disappoint when transporting your building materials or other types of luggage.

Only the Ford E Series Wagon (MSRP $28,760; 13 city / 16 hwy) comes close to the Savana Passenger Van in terms of price, size, and functionality.

Overall Rating
57 out of 100

What others say:

“Like all big vans, these are clumsy to drive, with a wide turning radius, copious cornering lean, and modest grip. Steering is less-overboosted than on previous test vehicles, but still feels numb. All of GM’s big vans respond with reasonable confidence in quick maneuvers.”Consumer Guide

“The Chevrolet Express/GMC Savana are full-sized vans designed primarily for commercial purposes. They offer a tall cargo bay with rear hinged doors that can be opened 180 degrees. Stability control and curtain air bags are standard. AWD is available.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Like GMC’s other body-on-frame vehicles like the Sierra pickup and Yukon SUV, the 2012 Savana’s ride and handling characteristics may come as a welcome surprise.”KBB

“The full-size 2012 GMC Savana van is one of the most versatile and functional passenger vehicles on the road.”Edmunds

The 2012 Jeep Liberty is a compact SUV that has rugged character combined with 4-wheel drive chops to get you to anywhere.

This SUV is equipped with more off-road capability than other competitors like the Honda CR-V and the GMC Terrain. This Jeep is offered in 3 trim levels: Limited, Sport and Jet model.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $23,395.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.5 gallons (74 l)	MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 176.9 in. (449.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.1 in. (269.4 cm)
Height: 71.0 in. (180.3 cm)	Width: 72.3 in. (183.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 4076 lbs (1849 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.8 in. (19.8 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 26.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: V6 SOHC	Displacement: 3.7 Liter
Horsepower: 210 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 235 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Sport 4×4	MSRP: $25,395; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Latitude 4×2	MSRP: $25,095; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:Latitude 4×4	MSRP: $27,095; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Limited Jet Edition 4×2	MSRP: $26,995; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:Limited Jet Edition 4×4	MSRP: $28,995; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Liberty is powered by a 3.7 Liter V6 powertrain that produces 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mounted to a four-speed automatic transmission. This SUV is available in standard rear-wheel drive, although there are 2 different optional 4-wheel drive systems; including the fulltime Selec-Trac and part-time Command Trac.

The four wheel drive Liberty Limited is capable of splinting from 0 to 60mph in just 10.2 seconds. In addition to this, the Liberty has a fuel economy of 22 mpg while on highway and 16 mpg in city.

Exterior

All trim levels come with a towing package, traditional sunroof, and a panoramic cloth sunroof as standard features. Most Jeeps are available in 7 color coats that include: cherry red, crystal pearl, true blue pearl, natural green pearl, brilliant black crystal pearl among others. Other notable features include: a classic 7 slot grille, blacked-out headlamps, trapezoidal wheel openings and 20 inch polished wheels and a robust suspension.

Interior

This SUV can accommodate 5 people, with the driver and front passenger getting sufficient legroom. Although the rear seats get enough space, the legroom is a bit tight. The base models come fitted with a one-year satellite radio subscription, power windows and doors, stereo with an auxiliary jack and air conditioning.

The Liberty has a storage capacity of 26.1 cubic feet, but the capacity can be increased to 62.4 cubic feet when the second row is folded. The leather-wrapped steering wheel, which is available in all models, accommodates audio controls. The Jet and Limited trims are equipped with Media Center 730, and there is also an option of Comfort Group which adds remote ignition and automatic climate control.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to reliability, the Liberty is backed by a 3-year or 36,000 mile basic warranty in addition to the 5-year or 100,000 mile engine warranty. The Jeep also comes with several standard safety features which include: stability control, antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags, and an active front head restraints.

This compact SUV is fitted with advanced multistage driver and front passenger airbags, roll sensing technology, child safety locks, and traction control to enhance the safety of the driver and passengers.

Pros

• Unique optional canvas roof.
• Available four-wheel drive.
• Useful towing capacity.
• Considerable off-road capabilities.

Cons

• Sloppy handling.
• Outdated four-speed automatic.
• Subpar interior materials quality.
• Sluggish V6 with poor fuel economy.

The Jeep Liberty remains one of compact SUVs that possess real off-road capacity. With this, the SUV beats several other competitors such as RAV4 (MSRP $24,685; 19 city / 27 hwy), Honda CR-V (MSRP $24,595; 23 city / 31 hwy) and the Nissan Xterra (MSRP $25,210; 16 city / 20 hwy). In addition to that, it is a commuter friendly crossover which is suitable for small families.

Overall Rating
55 out of 100

What others say:

“With the off-road-focused Renegade model now gone, it’s hard to see much value in the 2012 Jeep Liberty, as there were already plenty of better choices for those looking to spend most of the time on-road, commuting or shuttling kids.”Car Connection

“Liberty’s truck-type underpinnings compromise its handling abilities. Body lean is prevalent, and the tires squeal even in modest cornering. Steering feel is mediocre. The brakes on one test model had dull, wooden pedal action, and simulated panic stops caused moderate nosedive.”Consumer Guide

“The Liberty is noisy, cramped, and outdated. Most four-wheel-drive models have a part-time system. We prefer the optional SelecTrac system, which can remain engaged in 4WD mode indefinitely.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The Jeep Liberty suffers a platform whose time and market have come and gone. Those wanting a true off-road platform can look to Jeep’s own 4-door Wrangler, while those preferring…”KBB

“The 2012 Jeep Liberty can certainly hack it in the bushes, but it struggles on the pavement. Interior quality and fuel economy also leave much to be desired.”Edmunds

The 2012 Land Rover LR2 is a compact sports utility vehicle, with the patented Terrain Response allows the driver to tackle tough driving conditions.

The four-door LR2 is more compact than most of its competitors, yet gives comfortable seating for five. It comes in a more street-friendly size, at the same time providing excellent off-road capability at an affordable price.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $36,550.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 l)	MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 177.1 in. (449.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.7 in. (266 cm)
Height: 68.5 in. (174 cm)	Width: 79 in. (200.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 4255 lbs (1930 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.3 in. (21 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 26.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.2L Inline-6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.8: 1
Horsepower: 230 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 234 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs)	Maximum Speed: 124 mph (200 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:HSE	MSRP: $39,000; MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy
Option:HSE Lux	MSRP: $41,500; MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy

Engine

The six-cylinder, 3.2 liter, electronic fuel injected engine gives you 230 horsepower at 6300 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission with CommandShift, CamProfile Switching, and Variable Valve Timing technology provides power, and better spread of torque.

CommandShift allows the driver to make the manual changes necessary, and Sportmode offers a more lively performance. The LR2 accelerates from 0-60 miles per hour in approximately 8.4 seconds.

Performance

The LR2 has independent suspension for responsive handling, and a comfortable ride on all kinds of on or off-road surfaces. The positive steering and compact turning ensures the most control and maneuverability. Terrain Response reconfigures the engine’s transmission and traction settings for the best driving experiences in gravel, snow, mud, or sand, with just a turn of the dial.

The LR2 has an 18.5 gallon fuel tank capacity, and can average 15 mpg city driving, and 22 mpg highway driving, with an average combined driving of 17 mpg. Its off-road maximum wading depth is 19.7-inches, and has a towing capacity of 3500 pounds.

Exterior

The Land Rover LR2 has a strong, single-unit body construction. Its angular lines and boxy shape give it a strong, athletic appearance that is seasoned with side vents for a sporty look. The new front bumper and grill feature halogen projector headlights, and fog lights in the front and rear.

The ten-percent larger side mirrors are heated, with electric adjustment. Privacy glass and 18-inch alloy wheels with a sparkle finish top off the rugged and sporty look. The line-up of colors available include: blue, white, black, red, green, silver, tan, and gray.

Interior

This five-passenger, four-door sport vehicle has comfortable front seats, and generous head, shoulder, and leg room. Stadium seating is used for the rear seats, which are 50 mm higher than the front seats, giving passengers more visibility, leg room, and a maximum of 58.9 cubic-feet of cargo room capacity when folded down. A choice of ebony, almond, or gray grained leather is offered, with three fascia finishes of silver-metallic, dark chestnut wood-effect, or black lacquer effect.

Dual-zone automatic climate control with air filtration, a panoramic sunroof, and a trip computer with message center are standard, as well as six-way driver and four-way passenger seat adjustment. Two in-car entertainment systems are available which offer MP3 compatibility, satellite radio, and optional DVD satellite navigation, with large High-definition Touch-screen. Bluetooth is also available with compatible mobile phones.

Safety & Reliability

The LR2 has seven airbags including two curtain, two front, two thorax, a driver knee airbag, and rear-seat head restraints. Electronic brake-force distribution and electronic traction control make braking predictable under various road conditions.

Corner brake control is provided, minimizing the risk of rear-end sliding when braking hard. Dynamic stability control, roll stability control, and hill descent control are also safety technology features of the Land Rover LR2. Four-wheel disc, anti-lock brakes also give more driver control. The LR2 comes with a 4-year or 50,000 mile warranty, with roadside assist, and six-year corrosion warranty.

The Land Rover LR2 is an excellent choice for its off-road ability. It is compact, and more affordable than others. Fuel economy could be better, so if you are looking for a family, daily transportation vehicle, it may not be a wise choice. The Volvo XC60 (MSRP $33,300; 19 city / 25 hwy) is the most compatible in price range, has great safety scores, a stylish interior, more cargo space, and improved fuel mileage, but does not perform off-road tasks as well as the LR2.

The BMW X3 (MSRP $37,100; 19 city / 25 hwy) is quicker in accelerating, and more efficient, but is also more expensive, and not up to the LR2 in off-road driving. The Acura RDX (MSRP $32,895; 19 city / 24 hwy) has a more high-quality interior, but is also more expensive, and does not live up to the off-road performance of the LR2, and the Infiniti EX35 (MSRP $35,800; 17 city / 24 hwy) may have better gas mileage, but limited cargo and passenger space.

The 2012 Land Rover LR2 is an ideal crossover vehicle size, with off-road capabilities that no other competitive vehicle in this class seems to offer. The engine performs smoothly, but is not by any means powerful. The poor fuel economy seems to be a major drawback if you are looking for a commuter vehicle.

If you want an off-road vehicle, the LR2 will deliver with safety. If you need a transporter with great gas mileage, you may want to look elsewhere. The LR2 is great driving for those seeking adventure off the beaten path.

The LR2 can be compared to other mid-sized SUVs that include the Mercedes Benz GLK (MSRP $35,880; 16 city / 22 hwy), the Acura MDX (MSRP $43,030; 16 city / 21 hwy), and the GMC Yukon (MSRP $40,435; 15 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s no Range Rover, but the Land Rover LR2 isn’t strictly peasant fare. The cabin’s put together well, and roomy enough for four adults and a significant amount of luggage, though the same adults will hunt for a place to stash their phones and other carry-ons.”Car Connection

“Stable and well-planted on-road feel, though LR2’s tall body leans more than we like in fast turns, and the steering is a tad sloppy and slow. One test model’s brakes felt touchy at times. The Terrain Response system and generous ground clearance provided sure passage on tricky off-road driving courses despite the fact that this vehicle doesn’t have low-range gearing.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 LR2 is surprisingly comfortable for an SUV. A pothole-absorbing suspension system, excellent visibility and Land Rover’s “Command” driving position inspire confidence, whether negotiating a tight parking lot or jumping into the fast lane in rush hour.”KBB

“While the 2012 Land Rover LR2’s off-road prowess and all-weather capability are impressive, its lack of street-wise performance diminishes it compared to other compact luxury crossovers.”Edmunds

If you are looking for a luxury, sports-utility vehicle, the 2012 Land Rover Range Rover provides the best of both on- and off-road driving. With high-quality, and comfortable interior, and easy-to-use electronics, it is a great choice for a powerful and great-handling SUV.

The Range Rover is available in four trims, including base High Specification Edition (HSE), HSE Lux, Autobiography, and Supercharged. Providing a smooth ride, ample power, and gentle handling on and off the road, the Range Rover does it all.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV 4WD	Base Price: $80,275.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 27.6 gallons (104 l)	MPG: 12 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 195.7 in. (497 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.4 in. (288 cm)
Height: 73.9 in. (187.7 cm)	Width: 80.1 in. (203.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 5697 lbs (2584 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.1 in. (23.1 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 35.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 5.0L V8 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.5: 1
Horsepower: 375 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 375 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (210 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:HSE LUX	MSRP: $84,645; MPG: 12 city / 18 hwy
Option:Supercharged 510HP	MSRP: $95,670; MPG: 12 city / 18 hwy

Engines

Two versions of the 5.0-liter, V8 engine are used in the Range Rover, depending on which trim is chosen. The base HSE and HSE Lux models produce 375 horsepower, while the Supercharged trim produces 510 horsepower. Both trims have excellent power, and new six-speed, ZF 6HP28 transmission, CommandShift, and Dual Independent Variable Camshaft Timing systems (DIVCT) for better response, and smooth gear transitions. MacPherson struts in the front, and rear double wishbone, air suspension is provided, as well as speed proportional, power-assisted steering (PAS).

Performance

The Range Rover’s smooth transmission with progressive throttle, can match engine power with demand, and rivals the acceleration power of rival sports cars. It has a maximum speed of 130 miles per hour, can accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in 7.2 seconds in the base HSE trim, and 0-60 miles per hour in 5.9 seconds with Supercharged trim.

This off-road capable SUV has good grip, good maneuverability, impressive braking performance, a quiet cabin, and provides a smooth ride with steering feedback.

The 4-wheel drive and terrain response system make off-road driving a pleasure. You can select the type of surface, whether you are going through rock-crawling, sand, mud, ruts, gravel, grass, or snow, it will adjust the powertrain accordingly. It has hill start assist, which will maintain brake pressure, preventing backward rolls, and climbing or descending is made effortlessly.

Exterior

The Range Rover has a large, three-bar grill, with black headlight surround, and xenon headlights with power wash, that exudes a sporty look. The striking diamond-mesh grill provides greater air intake, and the body-colored side vents add to its aerodynamics, and look. There is an abundance of protective glass for almost panoramic viewing, an electric sunroof, an acoustic, heated windscreen, and laminated side glass for the front row.

The mirrors on the outside are heated and are power-folding, for convenience. Available colors are white, gray, green, blue, brown, red, silver, tan, bronze, and black, with seven-spoke, 19-inch, and alloy wheels to top off the great look.

Interior

Using the highest-quality materials, and carefully crafted design, the Range Rover seats five comfortably, with front-adjustable, leather-appointed seats and dash. Accents include real wood veneers of walnut, cherry, or a choice of black lacquer. The Blenheim leather seats come in black, brown, ivory or tan, with matching carpeting.

Touch-screen navigation with media and climate interface is easy to use. There is a rear-seat entertainment system option, with an upgraded audio system and vision assist pack. It provides heated front seats, and a heated, leather steering wheel, with numerous function switches and cruise. Climate control comes with air filtration, and there are 74.1 cubic-feet of cargo space, which is ample for most needs.

Safety & Reliability

The Range Rover is equipped with large curtain side driver and passenger air bags, a driver knee bag, and front-seat pelvic and thorax bags. The 4-wheel, disc, anti-lock brake system, brake assist, Electronic Stability Control, and Traction Control help to make the Range Rover safe to drive.

The maximum wading depth is 27.6-inches, there is front and rear parking sensors, and a multi-function alarm system included. The warranty offered is a 4-year or 50,000 mile, with 6-year corrosion protection.

Competition

The Range Rover is a luxurious, large, high-tech SUV, which has great on and off-road performance. The base model is rather expensive, and it may be smaller than some competitors however, with less cargo space. The great power, heavy curb weight, and 4-wheel drive, unfortunately results in low fuel economy, achieving only 12 miles per gallon in the city, and 18 miles per gallon highway driving.

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class (MSRP $107,100; 12 city / 15 hwy) may deliver luxury, yet it costs more than the Range Rover’s base price. The BMW models are comparable, but the electronics are harder to use, and the Toyota Land Cruiser (MSRP $78,255; 13 city / 18 hwy), or Lexus LX may be an option, if using vehicle for transportation only.

The Land Rover Range Rover is for the customer who cannot live without excellent off-road capability, and interior luxury. It is a very nice-looking, comfortable, sporty, powerful SUV that is for more than driving to work. It is a vehicle for sport, and fun, as well as travel, and if you do not care about the off-road experiences, it is best that you look elsewhere. Off-road driving is Land Rover Range Rover’s expertise.

Depending on your preference, other vehicles the Range Rover can be compared to include the lower priced BMW X6 (MSRP $59,800; 16 city / 23 hwy), the Cadillac Escalade (MSRP $63,170; 14 city / 18 hwy), and the Lexus 570 (MSRP $80,930; 12 city / 17 hwy)

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s not the most powerful luxury SUV on the market, but the 2012 Range Rover feels supremely in command, on the road or off the pavement.”Car Connection

“Range Rover is a mountain goat off-road, and car-like on the road. There is good grip, and the small-for-its-class turning circle is a boon for close-quarters driving. Stopping performance is impressive for a big SUV.”Consumer Guide

“The Range Rover boasts a very comfortable ride, although handling isn’t particularly agile.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“You may find the 2012 Range Rover a suitable vehicle if you fancy a full-size luxury SUV with prestige, exemplary off-road ability and an unmistakable design that is likely to turn some heads.”KBB

“Iconic British pedigree; powerful performance from Supercharged model; go-anywhere off-road capability; comfortable ride; world-class interior.”Edmunds

According to reviewers, the 2012 Mazda6 is a great family car for those who want a little zip while going to and from their daily tasks. The handling is brisk and enjoyable while the brakes are firm and have good stopping power.

The base trim also comes with a six speed manual transmission, which is a little unusual in affordable midsize cars. However, test drivers found the base engine a little weak and preferred the V6 engine, which is optional.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $20,480.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 l)	MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 193.7 in. (492 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.8 in. (278.8 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (183.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3268 lbs (1482 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (12.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L VVT-DOHC 4 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 9.7: 1
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:i-Touring	MSRP: $23,125; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:i-Touring Plus	MSRP: $24,730; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:i-Grand Touring	MSRP: $27,310; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:s-Touring Plus 3.7L V6	MSRP: $27,570; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:s-Grand Touring 3.7L V6	MSRP: $29,810; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Engine

The Mazda6 has six trims, two engines and three types of transmissions. Along with the engines, Mazda also offers five speed automatic, six speed automatic and six speed manual transmission. The manual comes with the base model and the six speed automatic transmission can only be had with the V6 engine.

All of the engines, save the V6, are 2.5 liter engines that deliver 170 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 167 lb-ft of torque. The V6 engine delivers 272 horsepower at 6250 rpm and 269 lb-ft of torque. The four cylinder Mazda6 gets 21 miles per gallon in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, with the five speed automatic transmission giving the driver one mile more on both city and highway. The six cylinder delivers 18 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway

Performance

Test drivers love the sporty way the Mazda6 handles. The steering is also superb and even gives the driver a bit of feedback. They even like the manual transmission that comes with the base model, though they like the power of the V6. Most reviewers found the transmission smooth.

Exterior

Though many cars of its class are unstylish, the Mazda6 pleased reviewers with its lovely curves wedded to a certain masculine vigor.

Interior

Reviewers were very pleased with the spaciousness of the car, which allows even tall adults to sit comfortably in the back seat, something that’s becoming more and rarer with new model cars and SUVs. The base seats are upholstered in cloth, but leather is optional.

The trunk is enormous with 16.6 cubic feet of space, but it’s easy to load. However, reviewers found some of the features a little out of date. The base doesn’t come with satellite radio or Bluetooth, which are standard, features on some rival cars. The audio system, according to reviewers, was inferior. Fortunately, higher tech equipment like backup cameras and navigation are optional.

Safety

The Mazda6 was rated about average when it came to safety. According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, it got “goods” for the front and side seats, a “marginal” for the rear crash test and an “acceptable” for the roof strength test. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave it a four out of five overall rating.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the Mazda6 a 3.5 out of 5 rating for reliability. It has a rather standard three year or 36,000 mile limited warranty. This warranty comes with round-the-clock roadside service. The powertrain warranty lasts for five years or 60,000 miles.

Pros

The vehicle is surprisingly roomy and has a lot of cargo space, and its handling is superb.

Cons

The base engine doesn’t deliver as much power as test drivers liked. It’s also loud. The Mazda6’s fuel economy isn’t what it ought to be for a car of its class, according to reviewers.

Although available in Hatchback, the Mazda6 sedan is able to hold its own against the likes of the Nissan Altima (MSRP $21,500; 27 city / 38 hwy), which gets the best mileage; then the Honda Accord (MSRP $22,280; 23 city / 34 hwy), and the Toyota Camry LE (MSRP $22,600; 25 city / 35 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Mazda6 is just as comfortable, practical, and refined as most other mid-size sedans, but it’s a little more enjoyable to drive.”Car Connection

“The 6 is agile and corners with confidence. Body lean in corners is minimal. Steering is responsive, with good on-center feel. Close-quarters maneuverability is aided by a relatively tight turning circle. The brakes deliver strong, steady stopping power.”Consumer Guide

“The Mazda6 is one of the sportier family sedans.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Mazda6 sedan is in the midsize category with the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but it presents itself as a sophisticated alternative to the everyday family sedan.”KBB

“The well-rounded 2012 Mazda 6 ranks highly among family sedans for its sporty driving dynamics and spacious interior.”Edmunds