The 2012 BMW 7-Series Hybrid competes in the arena of super luxury cars. It boasts a dynamic performance, well-appointed interiors and better fuel economy.

The 7 Series Hybrid indeed is a great package but some may be dismayed with the price.

Indeed, it is one of the most luxurious and the most powerful in its class but it is also one of the most expensive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $97,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79L)	MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 199.8 in. (507.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 120.9 in. (307.0 cm)
Height: 58.3 in. (148.0 cm)	Width: 74.9 in. (190.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4795 lbs (2175 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4.4L Twin Turbo V8 DOHC Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1
Horsepower: 455 HP	Max RPM: 5500-6000 RPM
Torque: 515 lb-ft @ 2000-3000 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:750Li 4.4L V8 Hybrid

MSRP: $101,000; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Engine

The 7 Series Hybrid comes with a twin-turbo 4.4 liter V8 engine that is paired to an electric motor. Combined, it delivers 455 horsepower and 515 lbs/ft of torque. The 7 Series Hybrid has an automatic 8-speed transmission. As far as power and transmission are concerned, the Hybrid brings more than what its gas only version could: 55 more horsepower and two additional gears.

Performance

Hybrid cars do not pay particular attention to performance but the 7 Series Hybrid clearly wants to break the mold. Most test drivers are impressed about its engine that is more powerful than the V8 in its gas only version. In fact, the 7 Series Hybrid is even more powerful than the Mercedes Benz S550 and the Porsche Panamera S. And although the 7 Series Hybrid is heavier than its gas powered counterpart, it does not sacrifice the quality of handling. It is nimble for its large size.

Exterior

The BMW 7 Series Hybrid seems to look long with its hood and the lines that connect it to the rear. This style, nevertheless, makes the car look smooth. There is a slight sign of aggressiveness because of its stance and the angular lines on the hood. These subtle details suggest the traits of the car when it hits the road.

Interior

The cabin of the 7 Series Hybrid is spacious and the interior is made of high quality materials. The interior is also generous on standard features. We are pleased about its iDrive system because it has become easier to operate. The seats provide adequate room, support and comfort.

You will have no problems about the seats even if you are taller than an average person. The headroom and legroom are adequate.

Safety

Because the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety do not crash test super luxury cars, they cannot provide safety details for the 7 Series Hybrid. Nevertheless, the car is packed with safety features such as anti lock brakes, airbags, active head restraints and other options. These options include side and rearview cameras, a night vision, blind spot monitoring and lane departure alarm systems.

Reliability

The 7-Series Hybrid comes with a 4-year standard warranty. During the warranty period, owners can have 24 hour roadside assistance and the scheduled maintenance after one year is free. This reliability is average in its class.

Pros

The ActiveHybrid 7 has a powerful engine, excellent handling and better fuel economy. It has a spacious cabin, luxurious interior and comfortable seats. Its high tech features are more user-friendly and it has lots of attractive safety features. The car looks good, too.

Cons

The 7-Series Hybrid is expensive. It also has a start-stop system that is abrupt.

The only deterrent in the 7 Series Hybrid is its price. But if you can afford the 2012 BMW 7 Series Hybrid, you can certainly go home with a great hybrid car.

There are three other vehicles that the ActiveHybrid 7 may be compared to, the Mercedes S400 Hybrid (MSRP $91,850; 19 city / 25 hwy), the electric powered Fisker Karma (MSRP $95,900), and the higher priced Lexus LS600h (MSRP $112,750; 19 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 adds an iPod/USB adapter. The following features are no longer standard but are available as options: Anthracite Headliner, Leather-covered Dashboard, Headup Display, Active Front Seats and Ventilated Front Seats. A 6-disc DVD changer is added to Rear Seat Entertainment Package.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 7 is both more powerful and more fuel-efficient than its 750i sibling, but it’s also considerably pricier.”Edmunds

The 2012 Chrysler 300 has a lot to offer. This particular vehicle really changed the image of the company and provided a new look for Chrysler. There are several changes put into the 2012 model, including unique enhancements.

It’s a vehicle that has style, room and a design that fits the personality of any driver. The sedan models of the 300 include: base, Limited, S V6, C, S V8, C luxury series and the SRT8.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $28,670.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.1 gallons (72l)	MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 198.6 in. (504.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 120.2 in. (305.3 cm)
Height: 58.4 in. (148.3 cm)	Width: 75 in. (190.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3999 lbs (1814 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (11.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: V6 DOHC VVT	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 292 HP	Max RPM: 6350 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Limited RWD	MSRP: $32,670; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:300S RWD	MSRP: $33,670; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:300C RWD 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $38,670; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:300S 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $39,670; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:300C Luxury 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $42,170; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:STR8® RWD 6.4L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $26145; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:300S MOPAR 12 RWD	MSRP: $49,525; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy

Engine

On the base 300 model, the engine is a 3.6L V6 with VVT, that produces 292 horsepower. The engine type is flex-fuel and it has a turning circle of 38.9 feet. Stabilizer bars in the front and back along with an independent suspension help this vehicle produce a smooth ride on all terrains. The rear wheel drive is there for added control.

Performance

With 24 valves and an 8-speed automatic transmission, the 300 is pretty quick. The flex fuel use helps it save on gas and the mileage it gets in the city is 19. On the highway it can get an estimated 31 miles per gallon. The range in miles in the city is 362.9 and on the highway is 592.1. It takes unleaded gas and can hold 19.1 gallons in the tank.

Exterior

A range of colors are available for you to choose from. These include: brown, pearl, purple, red and more. There are also a couple of interior color options for a more customized look. The wheels are 17″ and come with P215/65R T all-season tires on them.

Intermittent wipers, cargo tie downs and a rear defogger all come standard as well, along with the spare tire. It has a maximum towing capacity of 10,000 pounds and a ground clearance of 4.7 inches.

Interior

The passenger power seat allows you to adjust it four different ways. The driver’s seat is also powered and can be adjusted 8 different ways. Both are in cloth and bucket seats. Power door locks, mirrors and windows are help make it all easy.

There are cup holders for all seats and power outlets in the front. Climate controls and air filtration contribute to a more enjoyable ride at the proper temperature. Six speakers, satellite radio, CD player and am/fm come included for entertainment.

Safety & Reliability

Anti-lock brakes are included as is traction and stability control. Airbags are located throughout the vehicle so all passengers are protected. The headrests are there for added neck support and whiplash protection for the driver. An automatic trunk release is located in the back and there are child safety features included as well.

Pros

• Stylish with a sporty design
• Base model is very affordable and includes a lot of new upgrades.
• Ride is comfortable and quiet.
• Engine is quick.
• Nice sound system.

Cons

• Low visibility in the rear
• Can be expensive with added options

The 2012 Chrysler 300 is truly a car that any driver can appreciate. It can accommodate families but is also great for single drivers. There is a lot of space but that doesn’t make it bulky or extremely large.

Competition

The Buick LaCrosse (MSRP $30,170; 25 city / 36 hwy), Honda Accord EX (MSRP $25,205; 23 city / 34 hwy), and the Toyota Camry (MSRP $22,055; 25 city / 35 hwy) gets a much better mileage compared to the 300 and the Ford Taurus SEL (MSRP $27,755; 18 city / 27 hwy).

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“The 300 has a charming interior that’s now luxury-class, in both materials and refinement.”Car Connection

“No matter how you slice it, these are still large, heavy cars that won’t win any handling contests. Still, the 300 is competent and secure in most every situation. Body lean in fast turns is moderate, but the steering lacks feel. ”Consumer Guide

“Chrysler’s flagship, the 300C, is muscular and luxurious. An extensive freshening has made this cruiser a lot more competitive.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Chrysler 300 sedan is one of the few remaining big, powerful, rear-wheel-drive American luxury sedans, a layout that was once the hallmark of Detroit’s Big Three.”KBB

“Comfortable ride; quiet interior; powerful engines; upscale interior materials; generous features list; high-quality sound systems; available all-wheel drive.”Edmunds

People who need a large vehicle with a lot of room should look at the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban. This is a popular vehicle that has been around for more than 75 years. It is an SUV that has excellent towing capabilities as well as a strong engine.

Engine

It comes with a V8 5.3L engine that produces 320 hp at 5,400 rpm and a torque at 335 ft/lbs at 4,000 rpm. The drivetrain is rear wheel drive with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $42,220.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117l)	MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 222.4 in. (564.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 130 in. (330.2 cm)
Height: 76.8 in. (195 cm)	Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 5672 lbs (2572 kg)	Ground Clearance: 10.5 in. (26.6 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 69.6 cu ft-2nd row	Maximum Seating: 9 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec V8 OHV SFI	Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 320 HP	Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5100 lbs (2313 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LS AWD	MSRP: $45,065; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LT FWD	MSRP: $45,980; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LT AWD	MSRP: $48,825; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LTZ FWD	MSRP: $55,115; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LTZ AWD	MSRP: $58,115; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Performance

It uses unleaded or flex-fuel and can hold up to 31 gallons. On the highway it gets 21 miles per gallon and in the city it gets 15. The range in miles it gets in the city is 465 and on the highway is 651. There are a few mechanical options buyers can add on if they desire.

Exterior

Color options for the body include: mocha steel metallic, graystone metallic, gold mist metallic, crystal red tint and many others. There are also different interior colors buyers can choose from. The tires are P265/70R17 all-season and they come with 17″ alloy wheels.

Step running boards are on the side to help people get in and out of the cabin. There is also a privacy glass that helps keep it cool in the car. A roof rack is installed and a rear lift-gate door as well. There are cargo tie downs and a trailer hitch in the rear.

Interior

The rear and front seats have headrests that can be adjusted. The front seats are power adjustable that includes lumbar support. They are covered with cloth and have a bucket style design. The power mirrors are also heated, which helps with visibility during bad weather conditions. There are also power door locks and power touch windows.

Other features include satellite radio, a CD player, radio and iPod hook-up available for entertainment. Bluetooth can also be used for hands-free operation for the driver. On the inside of the cabin there are gauges to keep drivers aware of things like low fuel and miles.

Safety & Performance

Tire pressure monitoring and anti-lock brakes are standard. Stability and traction control are also included for better control of the vehicle. There are airbags throughout the car that have sensors for deactivation. There are child seat anchors and child-locks in the back to keep kids safe and sound while in the cabin. An anti-theft system is pre-installed and will sound in the event something happens.

Pros

• A lot of space inside the car.
• Can seat nine people.
• V8 engine that drives smooth and comfortably.

Cons

• Braking can take a while.
• Acceleration is not very quick.
• Last row seats don’t fold down.

Since the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban is so large, it’s a vehicle that is best meant for large families. The extra space and gas costs could prove to be too much for single drivers. The price of this vehicle is also very affordable when compared to similar SUVs.

Only two other SUVs can be compared to the Suburban, the Ford Expedition (MSRP $50,820; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Toyota Sequoia (MSRP $61,805; 13 city / 17 hwy).

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Chevrolet Suburban is one of the widest, longest sport-utes on sale today.”Car Connection

“Suburban reacts alertly to steering inputs, but some testers say the steering is too sensitive at highway speeds, especially with the available 20-inch tires.”Consumer Guide

“This extended-length version of the Tahoe can tow a heavy trailer and swallow more cargo than most minivans. Interior quality is very good, and there is room for up to nine, but typical versions seat seven.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Despite being an extremely large SUV built on a truck frame and designed to pull or carry heavy loads, the 2012 Chevrolet Suburban SUV delivers a suitable comfortable ride around…”KBB

“Seats up to nine people; class-leading cargo capacity; lots of standard and optional features; comfortable ride; smooth V8.”Edmunds

The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary edition will be unveiled in June 2012. The SL65 AMG Anniversary model will be produced in limited quantity, with only 45 being made to mark the 45th anniversary for AMG.

These limited edition vehicles may become valuable collector’s items, just as the CL 65 AMG has become, after its release for AMG’s 40th birthday in 2007.

Performance

AMG’s Exterior Carbon-Fiber package is exclusive to the SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary. It features a cross strut in the front apron, as well as exterior mirrors, and spoiler lip, which are all produced in carbon fiber, with a beautiful satin finish.

The 6.0 liter, V-12, 630 horsepower engine has the capability of accelerating from 0-62 miles per hour, in just 4 seconds, with a top speed of 155 miles per hour. The AMG exhaust system provides a very distinct engine sound, and the outer enclosure of the twin tailpipe is a sporty black, with chrome plating to accent.

Exterior

The limited edition has a forged, multi-spoke, light alloy wheels in titanium gray, with high-sheen flange, and a classy matte finish. The designers created “designo magno graphite”, a grey and satin look, which highlights the V12 roadster’s look of power.

Matte finishing brings out the contours of the car’s aluminum body, and highlighting in high-gloss chrome, adds interesting contrasts. The car has a new twin-blade grille, and newly designed enclosures for its daytime, LED driving lights, as well as new design tweaks featuring fins, wings, and a new hood design.

Interior

The Anniversary offering is sporty, classy, speedy, and safe. With every possible luxury, to provide comfort and convenience, safety is a top priority. A few of the extra features of the interior are: Multi-contour seat package, NECK-PRO head restraints, neck-level heating (AIRSCARF), KEYLESS-GO, Media Interface, Intelligent Light System (ILS), COMMAND on line with 6-disc DVD changer, and Bang & Olufsen Surround Sound System.

Safety

On the side of safety, the following is provided: AMG’s exclusive ceramic compound brake system, Driving Assistance Package, SAFE brake with lane assist, and blind-spot assist, PARKTRONIC, and automatic roll-over bars for driver and front-seat passenger.

Luxurious

With unique driving dynamics, along with maximum agility, a racing engine sound, sporty design, luxurious and safe interior, this 45th anniversary car is one to see, drive, and marvel. The launch of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 65 AMG 45th Anniversary will begin in September 2012, highlighting the history of AMG, and their high-performance records.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 181.8 in. (461.7 cm)	Wheelbase: 101.8 in. (258.5 cm)
Height: 51.8 in. (131.5 cm)	Width: 73.9 in. (187.7 cm)

Performance

Engine: AMG V12 BiTurbo	Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 630 HP	Max RPM: 4800-5400 RPM
Torque: 738 lb-ft @ 2300-4300 rpm	Transmission: AMG Speedshift
0-60 mph: 4.0 seconds	Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)

The 2012 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid which only comes in a crew cab style, uses a 6.o liter V8 engine which has an Active Fuel Management component which helps the truck to move as an economical V4 when the complete power is not required.

This engine is mounted with two electric motors and a 4-speed automatic transmission. Maximum towing capacity of the Silverado Hybrid 1500 is 6,100 pounds, which is just enough. This pickup has a calm ride, considering the fact that it has an electric steering.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Pick Up	Base Price: $39,640.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98l)	MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 229.9 in. (583.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 143.5 in. (364.4 cm)
Height: 73.7 in. (187.2 cm)	Width: 80 in. (203.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 5573 lbs (2527 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9 in. (22.8 cm)
Towing Capacity: 6,100 lbs (2767 kgs)	Maximum Seating: 6 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec V8 SFI VVT 2WD Hybrid	Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Shiftable Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:HY 4WD	MSRP: $48,840; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:2HY 2WD	MSRP: $46,420; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:2HY 4WD	MSRP: $49,620; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The Silverado Hybrid comes in standard 2-wheel drive, although there is an option for a 4 wheel drive. Both trim levels get 23 mpg on highway and 20 mpg when driving in cities.

With the addition of a nickel metal hydride 300-volt battery pack, the engine is capable of making 332 horsepower and 367 lb-ft of torque. This car also uses Regenerative braking system, which aids in recapturing some energy to charge the batteries.

Exterior

The Silverado 1500 Hybrid comes with an updated front end, updated to include a chrome bumper and a chrome mesh grille for a stylish, contemporary look. The truck is also available in several exterior color finishes which include: Graystone metallic, Black granite metallic, silver ice metallic and Mocha steel metallic among others.

Other key external features which are worth noticing include: heated-power door mirrors, delay-off headlights and trailer hitch receiver.

Interior

The interior of the 1500 Hybrid is similar to the regular Silverado, except for the fuel economy gauges. The Silverado 1500 Hybrid (2012) is offered in 6 seating capacity on all base models, except the 2HY trim which has a 5 seating capacity. The back seat has an ample space for the passengers.

Other interior features include: steering wheel covered with leather, cruise control, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a basic stereo. In addition to that, there is an auto stop position on the tachometer which allows the driver to know when the engine shuts down and is running fully on electric power. The interior color choices consist of: dark titanium with light titanium color and Light Cashmere color.

Safety & Reliability

This truck is backed by a 3 year/ 36,000 mile basic warranty and an extra 5-year/ 100,000 mile powertrain warranty. This is better than most pickup warranties, considering that electric components like motors, computer and batteries are backed with an 8-year/ 100,000 mile warranty.

The safety of the driver and the passengers is not compromised at all in the Silverado 1500 Hybrid. This is due to the many safety features which include: electronic stability control, child safety locks, driver and front passenger air bags, side head and rear head air bags, 4-wheels ABS, traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes and daytime running lights.

Pros

• Smooth ride
• Spacious and comfortable interior
• Well equipped
• Can accelerate to about 30 mph on electric power only
• Excellent fuel economy for a truck

Cons

• Limited towing capacity
• Expensive
• Slow acceleration
• Only available as a crew cab

With all the safety features incorporated in this truck, its no wonder that it qualifies to be used by families with small kids. The fuel economy of this pickup truck is also much better compared to some midsize crossover SUVs and trucks like the Ford F-150 Ecoboost.

Competition

The Ford F150 (MSRP $33,285; 17 city / 23 hwy) and the Ram 1500 (MSRP $33,220; 14 city / 20 hwy) may be alternatives to the 1500 Hybrid if your are looking for a truck that is less cost prohibitive, the Toyota Tundra (MSRP $40,535; 14 city / 18 hwy) is the most expensive.

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“City gas mileage is considerably high for a big truck; can accelerate to nearly 30 mph on electric power alone…Questionable value; only available as a crew cab; limited options; quirky power delivery; slow acceleration; limited towing capacity”Edmunds