Bentley is honoring the Diamond Jubilee by offering 60 unique Mulsannes. The exclusive models, unveiled on the birthday of Queen Elizabeth II, are limited edition, unique examples of quality craftsmanship and elegant design.

Each of the 60 cars are set to represent a year of HM’s reign as Queen, with handcrafted, bespoke embroidery depicting the Royal Carriage and gold-stitchings in the lining.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Sedan	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.3 gallons (98 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 219.5 in. (557.5 cm)	Wheelbase: 128.5 in. (326.6 cm)
Height: 59.8 in. (152.1 cm)	Width: 75.8 in. (192.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5919 lbs (2685 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 6.75 liter
Horsepower: 505 HP	Max RPM: 4200 rpm
Torque: 752 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds	Top Speed: 184 mph (296 km/h)

Highly polished, beautifully designed stainless steel plaques on the tread-plates have been commissioned for the Jubilee edition models and set to feature the famous Bentley script and declare each of the 60 vehicles as a ‘Diamond Jubilee Edition’.

True to the Bentley Mulliner tradition, each of the Diamond Jubilee models features a vast spectrum of paint colors that distinguishes them from standard Bentleys. Stylish shades and combinations of the Union Jack colors (red, blue and white) underlines the British connection along with two distinctive Bentley badges on each of the D pillars.

Performance

The twin-turbo V8 6.75 liter engine has a power output of 505 hp at 4200 rpm and an impressive 752 lbs of torque at approximately 1750 rpm. The Mulsanne is capable of going from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds and 0-99 mph in just 11.5 seconds. The top speed is at 184 mph.

Decorative Features

A vast range of commemorative features have been added to the Mulsanne including a fuel filler cap complete with a jewel, the flying B mascot on the radiator grill, 6 paint options (duo tone Beluga and Claret or Pale Sapphire and Black or simply Black Sapphire, Pale Sapphire, Claret or White Sand).

There is a hand applied fine lining in Union Jack colors, a Diamond Jubilee logo embroidered onto loose cushions and seat inserts, a Diamond Jubilee overlay on fascia and picnic tables and several hide colors including Linen, Burgundy and Navy.

The Bentley Mulsanne Jubilee edition captures the Bentley essence perfectly, combining a distinctive sporty yet elegant style, effortless performance, advanced technology and handcrafted luxury to create the perfect commemorative car.

Many drivers deem the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 to be a good, full sized pick-up truck, even as they believe it’s a little dated compared to the Ram 1500 and the Ford F-150.

They like the power that comes with the Sierra’s V8 engine and the truck’s fuel economy. All in all, it’s a truck for someone who needs a reliable and capable vehicle and who doesn’t care too much about flash.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Truck	Base Price: $22,195.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98l)	MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 205.6 in. (522.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 119 in. (302.2 cm)
Height: 73.6 in. (186.9 cm)	Width: 80.0 in. (203.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4460 lbs (2023 kg)	Ground Clearance Front: 7.7 in. (19.5 cm)
Cargo Volume: 60.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 3 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec V6 OHV 2WD	Displacement: 4.3 Liter
Horsepower: 195 HP	Max RPM: 4600 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 4800 lbs (2177 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SL 4.8L V8 VVT	MSRP: $30,125; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy
Option:SLE 4.8L V8 VVT	MSRP: $27,965; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy
Option:SLT 5.3L V8 SFI	MSRP: $36,555; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:XFE 5.3L V8 VVT	MSRP: $34,895; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Denali – 6.2L V8 403 HP 2WD	MSRP: $45,485; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Engine

Reviewers found the base V6 engine weak and the four speed automatic transmission that comes with the V6 and the 4.8 liter V8 engines woeful. Test drivers found the truck’s turning radius too large. But the 4.8 liter V8 engine delivers 302 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque and the driver can also opt for a mighty 5.3 liter V8 engine that brings 315 horsepower and 335 lb-ft of torque.

Even more powerful is the engine that comes with the Denali. This 6.2 liter V8 engine gives 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. These last two engines also come with a six speed automatic transmission. All the Sierra’s engines save the V6 can run on ethanol.

Performance

The truck gets 15 miles per gallon in the city and 22 mpg on the highway. It comes in several trims, which starts with the Work Truck or WT and moves up to the Denali. The Sierra comes in a variety of cabs and beds and in two or four wheel drive.

Despite its size, test drivers enjoyed the way the Sierra 1500 handled, though it is nothing like a car’s. The ride is fairly comfortable. The steering is balanced and the brakes are responsive. But what reviewers really liked was the Sierra’s capacity to haul and tow. All of the trims are able to tow a minimum of 7,000 pounds and haul a minimum of 1,513 pounds. Still the Ford F-150 can tow even more than this.

Exterior

Reviewers complained that the look of the truck was old fashioned, and not in a good way.

Interior

Reviewers found the Sierra 1500’s interior un-exiting. It seats from a minimum of three to a maximum of six people and has standard vinyl seats, though you can ask for cloth seats at no extra cost. Only on the SLT and the Denali are leather seats standard.

As for features, the base Sierra 1500 has manual A/C, a radio, power outlets and cruise control as standard, but it can be fitted with all manner of bells and whistles, including remote start, a heated steering wheel wrapped in leather and Bose audio. One benefit of such simple features in the base trim is that they’re easy to operate.

The Sierra’s interior cargo space, which means storage bins and cubbies, is average.

Safety

The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 excelled in crash tests sponsored by the federal government, but didn’t particularly shine in tests conducted by other institutions. It even received a marginal ranking for roof strength from one institute.

Reliability

The Sierra 1500 has a standard three year or 36,000 mile basic warranty and got a four out of five ranking from J.D. Power and Associates. However, the Sierra had one safety recall that concerned the front seat belts.

Pros

Reviewers appreciated that the Sierra can haul and tow a great deal of cargo and that its interior was roomy enough. They also liked its fuel economy.

Cons

Reviewers thought the Sierra’s interior features were inferior in all of its trims and they found its four speed transmission paltry.

Competition

This segment of trucks are usually dominated by the Ford F-150 (MSRP $23,500; 17 city / 23 hwy) and Chevy Silverado (MSRP $22,195; 17 city / 23 hwy) along with the Sierra, but when Toyota introduced the Tundra (MSRP $25,155; 16 city / 20 hwy), it got just a little more crowded.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Three different body styles are available, with the standard Regular Cab having very little space behind its front seats for anything other than narrow objects.”Car Connection

“Being these are large pickups, there’s noticeable body lean in fast turns and quick changes of direction with the base suspension. The Z71 suspension improves handling only slightly. The steering is nicely weighted, if a bit numb, and the brakes are responsive with fine pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“Even over the roughest surfaces, the 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 truck’s cabin remained calm, bothered neither by noise or vibration. While the 4.3-liter V6 is adequate for most light jobs, we prefer the pulling and passing power provided by the 5.3-liter V8.”KBB

“The 2012 GMC Sierra 1500 is a worthy competitor among fresher rivals, bolstered by a wide range of body styles, capable performance and a comfortable ride.”Edmunds

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is a small vehicle available in hatchback and sedan body styles. The sedan is comes offered in 5 trim levels: DE, ES, GT, SE and Ralliart.

The hatchback model on the other hand is available in ES and GT trim levels. Whichever you choose, you will find yourself delighted with its performance and styling, not flashy but simple enough to meet your commuting needs.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $15,955.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.5 gallons (59l)	MPG: 25 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180 in. (457 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.7 in. (263.5 cm)
Height: 58.3 in. (148 cm)	Width: 69.4 in. (176 cm)
Curb Weight: 2866 lbs (1300 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (14 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10: 1
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 145 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:ES CVT	MSRP: $17,995; MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy
Option:GT 2.4L CVT	MSRP: $20,995; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy
Option:SE 2.4L CVT	MSRP: $20,295; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:Ralliart A/T	MSRP: $28,095; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Lancer has several engines to power the different trims. The ES and DE trims use a 2.0L 4-cylinder powertrain that generates 148 hp and 145 lbs-ft torque. This engine is connected to a standard 5-speed manual gearbox, although an optional CVT is also available. The fuel economy of this engine is estimated at 26/34 mpg city/highway.

The Ralliart trim is powered by a 2.0L inline-4 engine that generates 237 horsepower and 253 lbs-ft of torque, powering all 4 wheels via an automated dual-clutch manual transmission with an active center differential and shift paddles. This engine nets a fuel economy of 18/25 mpg city/highway.

The GT and SE trims are powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine that thumps 168 horsepower and 167 lbs-ft of torque. SE model’s engine comes with a standard CVT and AWD, while the GT gets 5-speed manual with front-wheel drive. A GT model with the 5-speed manual can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in respectable 7.7 seconds. In general, the 2.4L engine gets a fuel economy of 23/30 city/highway.

Exterior

The Mitsubishi Lancer gets an upgraded look that includes front air dams, back-up camera and sensors as key standard features. The GT and ES hatchback models are fitted with 18-inch and 16-inch wheels respectively. Other standard features include: fog lights, automatic headlights, rear spoiler, daytime running lights, interval wipers, rear window defogger and power adjustable exterior mirror.

Interior

The Lancer’s interior does not disappoint either; even though the standard features are not many, the seats are comfortable for a smooth ride. All trims come with standard features including: tilt steering wheel wrapped with leather, steering wheel mounted controls, trip computer, cruise control, 4-speaker audio system, and CD player. Optional features you may opt to include: air conditioning, navigation aid, leather seats and front heated seats.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Lancer is fitted with features that guarantee the safety of the. Standard safety features are: full-length head curtain airbags, driver knee airbag, front-seat side airbags, child safety locks, emergency trunk release, stability control and antilock brakes.

The SE, GTS and Ralliart models are equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes. The GT is capable of coming to a halt from 60 mph in remarkable 115 ft.

This car is backed with several warranties: 5-year or 60,000 mile limited warranty, emergency roadside assistance during the first five years regardless of the mileage, 7-year or 100,000 miles rust protection warranty, and 10-years or 100,000 miles engine warranty.

Pros

• Attractive exterior
• Good cargo capacity in hatchbacks
• Powerful engine options
• Supportive front seats
• Crisp steering and strong handling.

Cons

• Higher trims are expensive for the class
• Below-par cabin quality
• Weak and noisy base engine
• No telescoping steering wheel
• Poor fuel economy

The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer represents a sporty alternative to affordable sedans. The car also offers a reasonable fun-to-drive experience, especially the hatchbacks. With the many choices of engines and trim levels, the 2012 Lancer is definitely a car of choice to many.

The Lancer once dominated the American compact sedan market, it has joined the likes of the Honda Civic (MSRP $15,955; 31 city / 36 hwy), Hyundai Elantra (MSRP $16,695; 33 city / 40 hwy), and the Mazda3 i (MSRP $15,200; 28 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“Refinement, ride, and interior trims are all subpar, but the 2012 Lancer has comfortable seats and a good driving position.”Car Connection

“The DE and ES exhibit decent grip in turns, but the steering is not especially direct or communicative. Though the brakes feel strong, nosedive is evident in quick stops. The tauter GT is more agile and fun.”Consumer Guide

“The Lancer is fairly agile and has a decent ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer sedans and Sportback wagon are perhaps the sportiest cars in the profoundly competitive compact-car segment.”KBB

“The 2012 Mitsubishi Lancer is a sporty alternative to conventional and more conservative economy sedans, but lacks the refinement and fuel economy that most shoppers are looking for.”Edmunds

The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport is a luxury midsize SUV, that has a combination of on-road performance, interior luxury and off-road prowess.

The Sport is still a Land Rover, so it is still capable of performing on slippery and rough terrain.

This 5-passenger SUV is offered in HSE and Supercharged trim levels.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $60,895.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23 gallons (87 l)	MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188 in. (477.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 108 in. (274.3 cm)
Height: 70.2 in. (178.3 cm)	Width: 78.8 in. (200.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 5540 lbs (2513 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.7 in. (17 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 150 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 5.0L V8 DIVCT DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.5: 1
Horsepower: 375 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 375 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 7716 lbs (3500 kgs)	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (210 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:HSE Lux	MSRP: $65,595; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Supercharged 510 HP	MSRP: $76,495; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy
Option:Autobiography Sport	MSRP: $87,195; MPG: xx city / xx hwy
Option:2013 Sport Limited Edition	MSRP: COMING SOON; MPG: NA

Engine & Performance

The Sport is powered by a 5.0L V8 that produces 375 horsepower and 375 lbs-ft of torque. The Supercharged trim uses an improved version of the V8 engine that produces 510 horsepower and 461 lbs-ft of torque. Both engines are mounted on a 6-speed automatic transmission that has 3 modes: Manual, Sport and Normal. A ZF 8-speed transmission has been offered for the first time as an option. In addition to that, all models benefit from full-time 4-wheel drive with a 2-speed transfer case and terrain response. The Supercharged model is able to splint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.

The fuel economy of the HSE model rates at 13 mpg in city and 18 mpg on highways. The Supercharged models fuel economy rates at 12/17 mpg city/highway.

Exterior

The Range Rover Sport comes with a new powered tailgate and colors. The HSE trim comes standard with a sunroof, fog-lights, bi-xenon headlights, 19 inch wheels and rear parking sensors among other notable exterior features.

Optional luxury features include: heated windscreen, 20-inch wheels and heated washer jets

Interior

The cabin of the Range Rover Sport is fitted with luxurious materials of high quality resulting to an elegant, quiet, and comfortable interior. All trim levels come standard with push-button ignition, premium audio systems, climate functions, Bluetooth and a touch screen to control navigation.

Rear entertainment is fun, thanks to White Fire wireless technology. Other standard features available in the HSE trim include: leather upholstery, full iPod integration, genuine wood trim and rear view camera.

The Supercharged model on the other hand comes with steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles, HD radio and satellite radio. The maximum cargo space is 71 cubic feet.

Safety & Reliability

There are many safety features that guarantee the safety of the occupants. Beginning with six airbags including 2 in front activated by side impacts, 2 side curtain airbags, and driver and front passenger airbags.

Other standard safety features include: traction and stability control, brake assist, hill-descent control, rear parking sensors. Optional safety features are: multi-camera parking assist, adaptive front lighting, vision assist package and automatic high beam assist. The Sport is backed by a 4-year or 50,000 mile limited warranty, in addition to a 6-year corrosion cover.

Pros

• Luxurious interior
• Composed on-road handling
• Powerful V8 engines
• Impressive off-road capability
• Iconic name and styling
• Great front seats

Cons

• Sparse standard features
• Short on interior space
• Poor fuel mileage

Competition

The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport balances on and off-road performance while maintaining luxurious and comfort features. In fact, the off-road capability of this SUV beats its rivals.

There are number of attractive SUVs that the Range Rover Sport can be compared to, they include the Infiniti QX (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy), the Mercedes Benz GL (MSRP $61,570; 17 city / 21 hwy), and the higher priced Toyota Land Cruiser (MSRP $78,255; 13 city / 18 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Range Rover Sport’s powerful engines, well-tuned suspension, and high-tech electronic control systems combine to make one of the most versatile high-performance SUVs available.”Car Connection

“Range Rover Sports are secure, balanced, and grippy. Body lean is well controlled, and cornering speeds can be satisfyingly quick in either model.”Consumer Guide

“If you crave a luxury SUV that can crawl down dirt roads by day and take you to the opera at night, it’s hard to beat the Range Rover Sport. Attractive looks inside and out, brand heritage and a host of the latest technology rounds out the package.”KBB

“The 2012 Land Rover Range Rover Sport demonstrates superb manners in town and on the highway, even if it does lack some of the rugged off-road spirit of the standard Range Rover.”Edmunds

The 2012 GMC Yukon was liked by reviewers and test drivers and was deemed to be a good choice for a driver who wants a large and affordable SUV. However, reviewers also recommended that those looking at the Yukon should consider a crossover.

For folks who prefer a more truck-like base, the Expedition by Ford could be an option. Even though it doesn’t have the Yukon’s power or fuel economy, it costs less. The Toyota Sequoia is also a good choice. Though it’s not as efficient as the Yukon, it handles well and has a great interior, including third row seats that can be folded all the way down the floor.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Full-Size SUV	Base Price: $40,085.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (94l)	MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202 in. (513 cm)	Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 76.9 in. (195.3 cm)	Width: 79 in. (200.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5448 lbs (2471 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Cargo Capacity(>2nd seat): 49.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec V8 OHV	Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 320 HP	Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5500 lbs (2494 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SLE AWD	MSRP: $44,095; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:SLT FWD	MSRP: $45,570; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:SLT AWD	MSRP: $48,425; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Yukon XL	MSRP: $43,555; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Yukon Denali 6.2L 403HP 2WD	MSRP: $55,010; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy

Engine

The 2012 Yukon has three trims: the SLT, the SLE and the Denali. It also comes in hybrid and XL models. The SLE and SLT have a 5.3 liter V8 engine that put out 320 horsepower and 335 lbs-ft of torque. The Denali has a 6.2 liter V8 engine with 403 horsepower and 417 lbs-ft of torque.

All the trims use a six speed automatic transmission. The trims with a 5.3 liter engine delivers 15 miles per gallon in the city and 21 mpg on the highway. The two wheel-drive Denali trims get a bit less, while the all wheel drive models get even less. Fuel economy is considered fair for a big SUV. Reviewers also liked the Yukon’s powertrain, which is serviceable both in the city and on the highway.

Performance

Even though it’s a behemoth, the Yukon handles well, pleasingly powerful, and surprisingly smooth. Surprising for a big SUV is its small turning radius. Reviewers were happy with the Yukon’s towing capacity. The SUV can tow over 5,200 pounds and the XL 2500 can handle up to 9,600 pounds. This makes it more capable than other pick-up trucks, including the Nissan Titan.

Exterior

Reviewers found the Yukon’s exterior easy on the eye, even though it’s not nearly as sexy as the Escalade.

Interior

People appreciate the Yukon’s capacity to seat up to nine people, though some may not be as comfortable as they want to be. With the front row bench seating in place, the third row is just big enough for children. The interior trim is of excellent quality, especially the Denali.

Standard features include a Bose audio system, Bluetooth, satellite radio and three-zone climate control. Denali features are especially sexy and include remote start and sound insulation. Most reviewers found the features easy to use, but some of the gauges were hard to read.

The Yukon has only 16.9 cubic feet for cargo, though getting rid of the third row gives the owner 60.3 cubic feet of added space, and a folded down second row of seats will increase it to 108.9 cu ft.

Safety

The safety ratings for the GMC Yukon were good. One institute gave them five out of five stars for front and side crash tests, three out of five stars for the rollover test and an overall rating of four out of five stars.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the Yukon a three and a half out of five reliability score. It comes with a five year or 100,000 mile powertrain warranty, and the usual three year or 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. The owner can also rely on five years or 100,000 miles of roadside help.

Pros

Reviewers loved the Yukon’s power and unexpectedly smooth ride, its towing ability and its elegant interior.

Cons

Reviewers complained that the third row seats can’t be folded flat to the floor, which decreases cargo capacity and makes stowing large pieces difficult.

Competition

Few luxury size SUVs come to mind, along with the Yukon and its various trims, available are the Ford Expedition (MSRP $39,140; 14 city / 20 hwy) and Toyota Sequoia (MSRP $40,930; 14 city / 20 hwy), to allow you to make comparisons.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 GMC Yukon–in Hybrid Denali form especially–makes a strong argument that there’s still very much a place in today’s market for big, capable, and supremely comfortable body-on-frame SUVs.”Car Connection

“Steering has light effort that benefits around-town maneuverability, but it can feel overassisted at highway speeds–a sensation that seems to be exaggerated slightly with the available 20-inch tires. Despite being tall and heavy, Yukons suffer relatively little noseplow and body lean in turns, though you would never mistake these SUVs for sport sedans…”Consumer Guide

“The Yukon’s ride is supple and controlled, and towing capacity is impressive. There is room for seven or eight passengers, but there’s little space behind the tiny third-row seat.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Unlike the truck based full-size GM SUVs of the past, the 2012 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL deliver a rather confident and civilized ride, with handling aided by numerous sophisticated…”KBB

“The 2012 GMC Yukon is a leading choice for a traditional large SUV thanks to its comfortable cabin and strong towing and hauling capabilities. But for many people, a large crossover SUV might work out better.”Edmunds