The 2012 Chrysler Town & Country minivan received high reviews from drivers and reviewers. It is family friendly, even though most reviewers thought it isn’t as sophisticated as other minivans.

The Town & Country does have a wealth of features such as built in DVD and Wi-Fi. Many people appreciated the new engine and improved suspension.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Minivan	Base Price: $29,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75.7l)	MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.8 in. (515.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 121.2 in. (307.8 cm)
Height: 67.9 in. (172.4 cm)	Width: 78.7 in. (199.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 4652 lbs (2110 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 33 cu ft behind 3rd row	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: V6 VVT DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 283 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Touring L	MSRP: $33,145; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:Limited	MSRP: $39,650; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Chrysler Town & Country has three trims: the Touring, the Touring-L and the Limited. All use a powerful 3.6 liter V6 gas/ethanol engine. The engine delivers 283 horsepower and 260 pound feet of torque with the aid of a six speed automatic transmission.

All of this goes into a vehicle that provides good to handling. However, some reviewers complained about some engine noise along with a whistling sound when it slows down.

The Town & Country gets about 17 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway. It has good road manners comparable to a car’s. The brakes are strong and sensitive, the steering is responsive and it takes zig-zag roads with ease.

Exterior

The Town & Country is a mini-van, therefore it’s not bought for its looks. Reviewers appreciated that it for its simplicity.

Interior

The 2012 Town & Country really shines when it comes to the interior. People loved the high-tech gadgetry found inside the minivan as well as its roominess. It seats seven passengers and features Stow n’ Go seating.

That means the second row seats fold all the way into the floor to give the inside more room for cargo. People were pleasantly surprised at how simple it was to get the seats to fold down. The second row can also come as captain’s chairs. These seats don’t fold but they’re an extra touch of luxury. A DVD system comes standard and there’s a sophisticated U-Connect system. The gauges are large and easy to read, as are the central control panel buttons.

When the second rows of seats are folded away, the Town & Country can hold an impressive 143.8 cubic feet of cargo. Even when all the seats are up there’s 33 cubic feet of cargo space.

Safety

The Town & Country received excellent marks for safety from the federal government. The IIHS gave the Town & Country its highest rating of “Good” in all tests and another gave it five out of five stars in the side crash test and four out of five stars in all other crash tests, including the rollover test.

It helps when it comes with at five air bags, 4-wheel ABS, traction control and child safety locks, among other safety features.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the Town & Country a 2.5 out of 5 ranking. It has a bumper to bumper warranty good for 3 years or 36,000 miles.

Pros

The Town & Country has a lot of great indoor features, a goodly amount of cargo space and handles well on the road.

Cons

It is expensive compared to other minivans and doesn’t perform quite as well. A few reviewers complained that they didn’t have as much leg room as they would like.

Competition

The Town & Country has been a favorite along with the likes of the Nissan Quest SV (MSRP $31,050; 19 city / 24 hwy), Honda Odyssey (MSRP $28,375; 18 city / 27 hwy), and the Toyota Sienna (MSRP $29,700; 18 city / 25 hwy) of those with big families or even who just enjoy the extra room in their ride. T&C’s performance isn’t as polished as that of minivans like the Sienna or the Honda Odyssey.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“Chrysler’s Town & Country minivan returns with a few new standard features this year, and last year’s renovation from nose to tail is holding up well–as is its reputation for safety.”Car Connection

“The steering is light on center but has a pleasantly substantial feel as it is turned farther to either direction. A fair amount of body lean is noticed in fast corners, but this van doesn’t wallow. Brakes are strong with good pedal feel. Simulated panic stops produced moderate nosedive.”Consumer Guide

“The Town & Country still falls short of the best minivans. High points include a comfortable and settled ride, and a quiet, well-equipped cabin that offers considerable versatility.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you refuse to accept life’s necessities like family transportation and versatile utility without a generous helping of luxury and style, the 2012 Chrysler Town & Country’s impressive standard and available features will likely satisfy your needs as well as your desires.”KBB

“Although the Chrysler Town & Country boasts a strong engine, confident handling and a well-trimmed cabin, it still trails the competition in terms of refinement.”Edmunds

The Ferrari name is perhaps the most prestigious among sports car manufacturers, and for good reason – the Italian maker has repeatedly produced models that just about everyone wants to own.

The 2012 Wheelsandmore Ferrari 458 Italia Spider Perfetto may have a rather unwieldy name, but it most certainly joins the list of breathtaking cars to have borne the famous Prancing Horse badge.

Performance & Handling

On every Ferrari, driving pleasure is of extreme importance, but this 458 takes that to a higher standard. The car is propelled by a stupendous 4.5 liter V8 unit which pumps out a mighty 647 horsepower.

This increase over even previous top-line 458 models is achieved by means of the Carbon air gearbox, which was inspired by Ferrari’s Formula 1 auto racing experience. Handling is superb thanks to the 21-inch rims and Hankook S1Evo tires.

Exterior

As well as being a delight to drive, a Ferrari must also be stunning to look at, and the Perfetto is undoubtedly that. Finished in 100% carbon fiber materials, the Wheelsandmore-exclusive look includes both major items – such as a customized trunk tray – and smaller touched, such as the window trim.

The result is a coherent and immensely attractive package which adds to the satisfaction the lucky owner of this car is sure to feel. The exhaust note is, as ever with a Ferrari, perfectly judged to bring a smile to the face of both driver and onlookers.

Interior

Some sports cars look great from the outside, but fall down a little once you climb inside. The Wheelsandmore 458 avoids this trap entirely, instead bringing the driver a sport-inspired interior that will get the pulse racing.

The abundance of switches and knobs mark this car out as one for the enthusiastic driver, as does the instrument panel’s huge, centrally-located, analog tachometer. However, this is not a car which neglects comfort, and leather is everywhere inside the cabin, often with beautiful red stitching.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.7 gallons (85 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 178.2 in. (452.6 cm)	Wheelbase: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm)
Height: 47.7 in. (121.1 cm)	Width: 76.3 in. (193.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 8.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: 4.5L V8 DOHC

Horsepower: 647 HP

The 2012 BMW X5 falls in the middle of the list of luxury midsize SUVs. Its engine is powerful and its handling is sporty for its size. What hindered it to reach the top is the price and the cabin that seems to lack space despite its larger size.

Car shoppers do not seem to find a great package in the X5 despite its great attributes. Budget conscious families may go home with another SUV from the same class.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $47,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gallons (85L)	MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.2 in. (485.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.5 in. (293.3 cm)
Height: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)	Width: 76.1 in. (193.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4960 lbs (2249 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.7 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 23.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L Inline6 TwinTurbo DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 300 HP	Max RPM: 5800-6250 RPM
Torque: 300 lb-ft @ 1300-5000 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.4 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA
Max Towing Capacity: 6000 lbs (2721 kgs)	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:xDrive35i Premium	MSRP: $55,200; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:xDrive35d Diesel	MSRP: $56,700; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:xDrive35i Sport Activity	MSRP: $57,700; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:xDrive50i 4.4L V8	MSRP: $64,200; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

Engine

There are three engines available for the X5. First is the inline-six twin-turbo 3.0 liter engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 300 lbs/ft of torque. Next is the inline-six twin-turbo 3.0 liter diesel engine that delivers 265 horsepower and 425 lbs/ft of torque. The third is the-top-of-the-line V8 4.4 liter engine that delivers 400 horsepower and 450lbs/ft of torque.

Gas powered engines are paired with an automatic 8-speed transmission with manual mode and the diesel engine is paired with an automatic 6-speed transmission with manual mode.

Performance

Test drivers were overwhelmed with the sportiness that the BMW X5 has. All the engines are capable for hauling, whether you are in the city or on the highways. It is worth mentioning that even though the diesel engine loses some horses, its increase in torque compensates for the loss. And it is worth noting that the diesel engine does not sacrifice the excellent driving capabilities for which BMWs are known.

Exterior

The 2012 X5 looks muscular. It bears the trademark BMW grille and the headlights that are rather shaped like melancholic eyes. The hood and the front layout are generous with lines which make it look very modern.

The side panels are slightly curved but are devoid of lines, giving the X5 a smooth and polished look. The X5 might trick you into thinking that it is not sporty because of all the bulk, but wait until you are behind the wheel.

Interior

The 2012 X5 lives up to our expectation when it comes to BMW quality. However, there are complaints about the second and third rows. The third row was probably designed only for children because adults, especially the tall ones, find it cramped.

The second row is mounted too low on the ground. The only row that is generous in space is the front row. The iDrive system seems to be too advanced and cumbersome for most drivers.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is yet to complete crash tests for the X5. Nonetheless, it receives a “good” score in rear, side and front crash tests. There are no details about the roof strength tests. The federal government, on the other hand, gave the X5 a rollover score of 4 out of 5 stars.

Reliability

The X5 comes with the standard 4-year warranty and a limited corrosion protection warranty that lasts for 12 years. The reliability rating for the X5 is average in its class.

Pros

All X5 models come as all-wheel drive. The handling is exceptional for its size, and is probably the sportiest in its class. The X5 has a well-appointed interior that is made of quality materials. The seats are luxurious. The engines are capable. The diesel engine has improved fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.

Cons

The cabin is smaller than it looks. The iDrive system is complicated.

The 2012 BMW X5 an excellent SUV but because it is costly, a family might go home with another SUV from the same class.

Competition

There are other vehicles that are being compared to the X5, this includes that Audi Q7 (MSRP $51,450; 17 city / 25 hwy), the Cadillac SRX (MSRP $49,585; 16 city / 23 hwy), and the Infiniti JX35 (MSRP $42,050; 17 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“BMW is well-known for building premium luxury vehicles, and the X5 is no exception. Ride comfort, materials, and seatings space are all part of the X5’s design.”Car Connection

“Outstanding balance and grip make the X5 feel more like a sedan than an SUV. There’s minimal body lean in turns. Braking is strong, with good pedal feel. X5 M has sharper moves all around.”Consumer Guide

“The X5 has a stiff and choppy ride, particularly low speeds. Handling is capable and secure, and the steering has good feedback.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“With a sophisticated suspension, excellent braking, communicative steering and at least 300 horsepower, the 2012 BMW X5 – in any of its iterations…”KBB

“The 2012 BMW X5 remains a top choice among luxury crossover SUVs thanks to its athletic performance and refined interior…Athletic handling; potent and efficient engines; luxurious and comfortable interior; huge list of features; steadfast high-speed stability.”Edmunds

The 2012 Dodge Avenger is a sedan that has a lot of space, but isn’t bulky on the outside. It is similar to a lot of other midsize sedans, but has a few luxuries that make it stand out of the crowd.

The 2012 Avenger doesn’t have many changes from the previous year. It does still offer a lot to drivers, including a lot of safety features. This is generally marketed as a family vehicle, but appeals to drivers that want a car on a budget as well.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $18,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64l)	MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 192.6 in. (489.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.9 in. (276.6 cm)
Height: 58.4 in. (148.3 cm)	Width: 72.8 in. (184.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3400 lbs (1542 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.0 in. (15.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC VVT	Displacement: 2.4 Liter cc
Horsepower: 173 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SXT	MSRP: $21,495; MPG: 20 city / 31 hwy
Option:SE 3.6L V6	MSRP: $21,495; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy
Option:SXT Plus 3.6L V6	MSRP: $23,995; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy
Option:R/T 3.6L V6	MSRP: $25,995; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy

Engine

The engine is a 2.4 L with 16 variable timing valves. The Inline 4 DOHC produces 173 horsepower and a torque of 166 ft/lbs at 4400 RPM. The turning circle is 36.5 feet and it has front wheel drive for added safety when driving through a variety of weather conditions.

Performance

Transmission is a four speed automatic. The estimated miles per gallon in the city is 21 and on the highway is 30. It takes regular unleaded in order to run. There is a Macpherson strut suspension in the front and stabilizer bars included throughout.

Exterior

The wheels on the vehicle that have 225/55R17 all-season tires installed in them. The rear windows have defoggers and there are intermittent wipers on the front and back.

It has a maximum towing capacity of 1,000 pounds and there are many exterior options that buyers can add on. There are eight exterior paint color options and two interior premium cloth seat colors to choose from.

Interior

The seats in the front are bucket style and the driver side can be adjusted for height. The rear seats can be folded down and there is storage in the center armrest. Power door locks, mirrors and windows all come standard. Some convenience features include: cruise control, power outlets, remote trunk release, cup holders and tilt steering wheel.

There is air conditioning and heating to ensure a comfortable ride as well. The entertainment that comes included is an am/fm radio and single CD player. As with the exterior, there are many interior options that buyers can choose from.

Safety & Reliability

Dodge is well known for how safe its vehicles are and the Avenger lives up to this. The anti-lock brakes offer stability during emergency brake situations and there are traction/stability controls installed as well.

Rear, front, dual front and side-mounted air bags are all standard for all passenger areas. There are also anchors for child seats and rear door locks that are child-proof. Other safety details include: auto headlamps, engine immobilizer, ventilated discs, head restraint whiplash systems and more.

Pros

• Fast and strong engine.
• Handles well in all driving situations
• Looks nice and has a sporty design.

Cons

• Not much different from the previous year models
• Doesn’t have a lot of standard luxuries that some drivers might be accustomed to.
• Doesn’t offer as much as similar-priced midsize sedans

Competition

This sedan segment is filled with other vehicles to choose from, they include the Nissan Altima (MSRP $20,550; 23 city / 32 hwy), the Ford Fusion (MSRP $20,705; 22 city / 32 hwy) and the Chevy Malibu (MSRP $22,110; 22 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
59 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Dodge Avenger has a roomy interior, but back-seat accommodations suffer somewhat from the fashionable exterior.”Car Connection

“The car tracks well, has good steering, and there’s little body lean in fast corners. It’s certainly competent, but not what you would call sporty. Dodge is likely leaving that to the upcoming Avenger R/T.”Consumer Guide

“The Avenger, like the related Chrysler 200, is still an uncompetitive design that trails all other midsized sedans.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Dodge Avenger sedan is a surprisingly fun car to drive. Last year’s complete reworking of the car’s suspension, brakes and steering gear make the 2012 Dodge Avenger sedan perform much more like a nimble European VW or Opel than any mid-size Dodge we’ve driven in the last decade.”KBB

“The 2012 Dodge Avenger is a fully competitive midsize family sedan, but the wealth of stronger competitors makes it difficult to recommend.”Edmunds

The 2012 Fisker Atlantic prototype was exhibited just before the New York International Auto Show.

It is a hybrid vehicle that can be switched manually or automatically between gas power and electric power.

The car’s designers have equipped the vehicle with a gas engine that does not provide power directly to the drive system. Instead, the gas engine is used only to charge the battery system, making the car an extended range electric vehicle.

The basic model comes as a rear-wheel-drive, but an all-wheel-drive will be available.

Interior

Visually, the car imparts a very sporty appearance, yet the interior offers very comfortable and roomy seating for driver and passengers. The car is built on a long wheelbase to give extra legroom and trunk space.

The car features a glass roof. This has been constructed using the innovative “spider” technology that allows it to surpass safety requirements in crash and rollover scenarios. The roof is noticeably domed in shape, giving plenty of headroom within.

Exterior

From the front, the car looks like a coupe, but it is in fact a 4-seater, 4-door sedan. The front is dominated by large, twin grilles and the hood and sides are sculpted into dynamic shapes, adding to the sporty appearance.

The rear door handles are concealed within the rear pillars, another design trick that makes the car look like a coupe at first glance.

The rear LED lamps are cleverly designed to split in two, thereby allowing the trunk opening to extend across the entire width of the car. The trunk lid doubles as a rear spoiler, providing improved aerodynamic performance.

Production model

While the company has not yet announced a production date, it is likely that the first 2012 Fisker Atlantic will be on the market before the end of 2012. The company has not given details of the gas engine that will ship with the car, or what equipment will be supplied.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Sedan	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 9.0 gallons (36 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 196.8 in. (499.8 cm)	Wheelbase: 124.4 in. (316 cm)
Height: 52.4 in. (133 cm)	Width: 84.0 in. (213.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 5300 lbs (2404 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 6.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Electric Motor: EVer Electric Vehicle	Torque: 959 ft-lbs
Voltage: 336 V	Battery: Mid-mounted lithium ion
Engine: Turbocharged 4 cylinder	Displacement: 2.0 liters
0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds	Top Speed: 125 mph (201 km/h)