The 2013 Acura ILX combines luxury and affordability. It comes with a variety of features that make it worth exploring.

Engine Performance

The car is powered by an aluminum-alloy Inline-4 with 140 horsepower 2.0 Liter engine. It has an electronic ignition and uses premium unleaded gasoline. The 4 cylinder engine accelerates rather smoothly.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $25,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50L)	MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 179.1 in. (455 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm)
Height: 55.6 in. (141.2 cm)	Width: 70.6 in. (179.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 2910 lbs (1320 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.2 in. (15.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline4 SOHC, i-VTEC®	Compression Ratio: 10.6: 1
Horsepower: 150 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds	1/4 Mile: 14.6 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:ILX w/ Prem Package	MSRP: $29,200; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:ILX w/ Tech Package	MSRP: $31,400; MPG: 29 city / 38 hwy
Option:ILX Hybrid	MSRP: $28,900; MPG: 39 city / 38 hwy

The ILX can get up to 24 mpg in the city and 35 on the highway. There are low-friction piston rings that actually help improve fuel economy. The throttle system is also sensitive, which means a smooth and powerful drive with quick responses.

Exterior

There is a multi-view camera that offers the driver a view of the rear from the inside. This makes driving a lot safer, especially when children are nearby. This is available in a certain packages, which costs extra. The sleek design is accompanied by different sized wheels for each of the models. The maximum seating capacity is for five people.

Interior

The front seats move in different positions and are made of a plush material for comfortable rides. The rear seats have a lot of space with leg and toe room for adults to fit in. There are also two cup holders and buckles for all passengers. The cargo area is 12.2 cubic feet in the standard model. The automatic climate control inside the cabin allows the passenger and driver to control individual temperatures.

The dashboard is equipped with a design that offers the driver all the controls they need. They are easy to reach and include changing the temperature and radio with simple controls. The five inch color display tells audio information for the driver and passengers to be able to easily see. There is also a keyless access system with a push button start.

Safety & Reliability

The Acura ILX is built with a six-airbag system. There are two in the front, two on the sides and two side curtain airbags as well. There are sensors built in that detect whether or not a seat is empty, which will determine if an airbag should go off during a collision. The child safety feature detects the position of a child to determine how an airbag needs to go off during a collision.

The breaking system comes with ABS standard and electronic brake distribution. There is also a security system that will set off a horn and lights. This will be followed by the car disabling the ignition.

Pros & Cons

• This is similar to several other cars, but is $10,000 less.
• A brand that fits both older and younger drivers.
• Easy for a family to use because of the passenger space.
• The Acura ILX offers more features per dollar than many other similar models.
• The acceleration isn’t as quick as some drivers like.
• Not as many technological features that are compatible with smart phones. Some drivers might not enjoy driving without these features.

Competition

Two vehicles that may be compared with the new ILX are the high priced Lexus IS250 (MSRP $34,965; 21 city / 30 hwy) and the Audi A3 (MSRP $28,750; 22 city / 28 hwy).

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“Though Acura doesn’t like to dwell on the Honda Civic basis for the ILX, it’s there–but it’s all under the skin. On the outside, the ILX is its own car, with low and wide proportions, a long hood and short rear deck, aerodynamic character lines, and Acura’s signature front-end look.”Car Connection

“Acura says the ILX has quicker steering than the Civic on which it’s based, and it combines with the taut suspension and relatively low weight to provide a sporty driving feel.”Consumer Guide

“The 2013 Acura ILX is Acura’s new compact sedan powered by a 150-horsepower 2.0-liter engine or an optional 201-horsepower 2.4-liter engine.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2013 Acura ILX sedan has set its sights on tapping into a 4-door luxury-leaning market that sits just below, in price and size, the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 audience. ”KBB

“Excellent build quality, good fuel economy and palatable starting prices make the 2013 Acura ILX an intriguing option for those who’d like a luxury car without the big payment.”Edmunds

The 2012 CCG Automotive Dodge Wrapped Challenger SRT-8 is a demonstration vehicle used to promote the work of the German company CCG.

The company specializes in giving cars a complete makeover, both internally and externally.

Exterior Wrapping

CCG modified the exterior appearance of the Dodge Challenger SRT-8 using a technique called ‘car wrapping.’ This technique allows for a complete transformation of the body by applying an opaque, plastic-based, patterned film to the car.

This process has several advantages over re-spraying the car. Complex color schemes and color blending can be easily produced on the film, achieving an end result that would be extremely difficult using paint.

The wrapping process is also much faster than a repaint job. Additionally, the process is reversible because the film can be easily removed. A stunning visual effect can be created for a fraction of the price it would cost to achieve the same by repainting.

Performance

CCG does not confine itself to just visually changing a car. The company also has a technical division that showed its versatility by installing a totally different engine in the demonstration Dodge.

The engineers replaced the original 6.1-liter, V8 engine of the production SRT-8 with a 7.0-liter Stroker HEMI-V8 engine. The new engine results in an increase in power from 481 horsepower to a spectacular 600 horsepower.

They also replaced the exhaust system, installing a twin pipe system they built themselves. The new exhaust system produces a very distinctive, thunder-like sound that gives the outside world a clear indication of the powerful beast under the hood.

Interior

The SRT-8 also demonstrates the company’s expertise at giving the inside an impressive facelift. The original seats have been given a luxury appeal by the addition of hand-stitched leather and Alcantara coverings.

Other surfaces, like the headliner and dashboard, have also been visually improved. The 2012 CCG Automotive Dodge Wrapped Challenger SRT-8 is certainly an eye-catching demonstration of CCG’s imagination and skill.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe

Est. Market Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 197.7 in. (502.1 cm)	Wheelbase: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 57.1 in. (145 cm)	Width: 75.7 in. (192.3 cm)
Curb Weight: NA	Ground Clearance: 4.8 in. (12.1 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: Stroker HEMI V8	Displacement: 7.0 liters cc
Horsepower: 600 HP	Torque: 471 lb-ft

The 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan is a minivan with a unique distinction: an R/T badge which signifies it as a member of Chrysler’s track and road performance group. The Grand Caravan is at the top of the minivan market due to its features and innovative seating which makes it a minivan of first choice for many families.

With the growing competition coming from other manufacturers, the Grand Caravan had been upgraded in 2011 to remain amongst the top ranked minivans.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Minivan	Base Price: $20,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75l)	MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 203.7 in. (517.3 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: 4510 lbs (2045 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 33 cu ft behind 3rd row	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: V6 DOHC VVT	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:SE	MSRP: $22,995; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:SXT	MSRP: $26,495; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:Crew	MSRP: $28,495; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:R/T	MSRP: $29,995; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

This minivan is powered by a 3.6 liter Pentastar V6 engine, which produces 283 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. With this, you still get 25 mpg while on the highway which means that a full tank can last 500 miles. With the increase in engine durability, the distance between planned maintenance is also maximized.

In addition to that, the Grand Caravan is capable of pulling up to 3,600 pounds of towing capacity. All models come with a 6-speed automatic transmission to enhance performance.

Exterior

The 2012 Grand Caravan comes in a functional shape, which can no longer be said to be under styled. The wheels are standard 16 inch rims. Other features include: a rear lift-gate door, rear window wiper, and rear defogger. The minivan is offered with 2 sliding doors on both sides and four trim levels.

Interior

The interior of the Grand Caravan has many features. The seven passenger cabin features Stow n Go seating that can be folded to maximize cargo space. The instrument panel emits a blue glow in the evening, enabling the driver to view driving information easily.

The Uconnect Web technology enables you to connect with friends and family, music and other devices that are of importance to you. The Uconnect Phone feature offers a complex communication system featuring: pairing of up to 7 Bluetooth-compatible phones, Bluetooth integration and voice activation.

In addition, features like a DVD player, power outlet for other devices and gaming inputs provide flexibility. The entertainment suite is composed of 2 wireless infrared headsets, auxiliary jacks, and 6 speaker audio system.

The Base models are offered with cloth upholstery, power front windows, air conditioning, tilt and telescope steering wheel among other interior features. Upgraded models on the other hand, include additional features like: rearview camera, dark tinted confidentiality glass, power windows and fog lights.

Safety & Reliability

The Caravan comes with safety features that help prevent collisions and keep the driver and the passenger’s safe. Among the most prominent safety features are the side impact curtain airbags, passenger airbag, and knee airbag for the driver.

Other notable safety features include: child safety locks, traction control, 4-wheel disc brakes, electronic stability control, and tire pressure monitoring. The Caravan is protected with a 3-year or 36,000 mile warranty and a 5 year or 100,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Low base price
• Large cargo space
• Responsive and refined V6 engine
• Innovative Stow n Go seating

Cons

• The engine feels sluggish
• Rides get bouncy
• Unremarkable handling

With excellent second and third row seating, this minivan is suitable for large families. Moreover, since the seats can be folded to create more cargo space, business people can benefit from this when transporting their goods.

Competition

The Grand Caravan has been a favorite along with the likes of the Nissan Quest S (MSRP $25,990; 19 city / 24 hwy), Kia Sedona LX (MSRP $24,900; 18 city / 25 hwy), and the Toyota Sienna (MSRP $25,060; 19 city / 24 hwy) of those with big families or even who just enjoy the extra room in their ride.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The most flexible seating system in the minivan business remains the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan’s hallmark.”Car Connection

“Despite their overall size, these vans are quite tractable. Body lean in corners is fairly pronounced, as you might expect. An impressively tight turning radius aids in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

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

“Low-end torque is what is required to move a heavy object quickly from a standing stop and the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan minivan has it in spades.”KBB

“Although the 2012 Dodge Grand Caravan offers a low starting price and clever passenger- and cargo-carrying functionality, it still trails the competition in terms of overall refinement.”Edmunds

The 2012 Cadillac Escalade Hybrid is powered by a combination gas and electric 6.0 liter V8 engine with 367 torque. Despite its weight of nearly 6,000 pounds, the engine is powerful enough to accelerate from 0-60 miles per hour in only 6.5 seconds.

The gas mileage averages at 20 mpg in the city and 23 mpg on the highway, which is a high rating for a full size SUV of this kind. The hybrid powertrain is a significant improvement from the standard Escalade’s 13 miles per gallon in the city and 18 miles per gallon on the highway average.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV	Base Price: $73,050.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25 gallons (94l)	MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.5 in. (514.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)	Width: 79 in. (200.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5871 lbs (2663 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec® V8 VVT 2WD	Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Shiftable Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5800 lbs (2630 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Standard 4WD	MSRP: $76,400; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Platinum 2WD	MSRP: $83,295; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy
Option:Platinum	MSRP: $85,845; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

The engine performance is the same in both options of the rear wheel or all wheel drive Escalade Hybrids. Unlike most other hybrids, the Escalade Hybrid can tow up to a maximum of 8,300 pounds in the rear wheel drive model, and up to 8,100 pounds in the all wheel drive model. This sport utility vehicle handles well for its size, due to a special feature by GM called “Magnetic Ride Control.”

Exterior

There are two main body options available for this SUV: the standard model or the ESV model that is longer by up to 21 inches. The ESV model has the advantage of being able to comfortably accommodate eight passengers.

The large front grill and nearly 22 inch diameter wheels maintain the classic look of the Escalade Series, making the hybrid model appear just as tough as its predecessors.

Interior

Both the soft, leather front seats are heated and cooled; not only that, they are highly adjustable to suit the preferences of all passengers. A built-in navigation system with a large, highly readable touch screen is included for your convenience, and the backseat passengers also have built-in entertainment systems for their own enjoyment.

There are many other extra details that can be added on for an additional charge, including heating and cooling cup holders to keep your drinks at the perfect temperature while you travel.

One of the only minor drawbacks of this vehicle is the slightly smaller third row of seating in the back, which is recommended primarily for children due to the slightly decreased amount of legroom.

Safety & Reliability

A federal government agency has rated the 2012 Escalade Hybrid with a perfect score of five stars for its ability to handle frontal and side collisions. It scored three stars in rollover tests, which is higher than many other vehicles in its class.

This hybrid SUV is also guaranteed with a warranty for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Roadside assistance is also included for 100,000 miles or five years.

The Cadillac Escalade Hybrid does not offer exceptional gas mileage compared to other hybrid cars, and it is not intended for those who are shopping for the most fuel efficient vehicle; however, it does provide some additional savings on fuel for those who prefer a powerful, luxury SUV with a high towing capacity.

It has some of the highest safety ratings of any other luxury SUV as well, making it not only one of the most comfortable vehicles in its class, but also one of the most durable.

Competition

If you’d like a similar vehicle at a cheaper price, you might consider the GMC Yukon Hybrid (MSRP $52,470; 20 city / 23 hwy) or Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid (MSRP $51,970; 20 city / 23 hwy), although both of these will certainly differ from that of the Escalade in their performance. Others that may be compared to the Escalade Hybrid include the Mercedes Benz GL350 (MSRP $60,950; 17 city / 21 hwy) and the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60.000; 14 city / 20 hwy).

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“Significantly improved fuel economy over conventional Escalade; generous standard features; eight-passenger seating capacity…Questionable value; quirky powertrain operation; reduced power and towing capacity; mediocre braking; third-row seat doesn’t fold flat.”Edmunds

The Durango is one of the most popular models from Dodge. The 2012 Dodge Durango has been upgraded with a several improvements that make a big difference with the ride.

This vehicle is commonly a favorite by small families, but it is also used by those who need extra cabin space. The design of this year’s model is sleek and welcoming. There are similar SUVs that can compare, but the Durango is generally more affordable than most other options.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $28,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons (93l)	MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 199.8 in. (507.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 119.8 in. (304.2 cm)
Height: 70.9 in. (180 cm)	Width: 75.8 in. (192.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4756 lbs (2157 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 47.7 cu ft behind 2nd row	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: V6 VVT DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 280 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SXT AWD	MSRP: $31,195; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:CREW RWD	MSRP: $33,795; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:R/T RWD 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $35,795; MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy
Option:Citadel RWD	MSRP: $40,995; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Engine

The base engine is a 3.6 L V6 DOHC that produces 290 HP at 6,400 RPM and torque at 260 ft/lbs at 4,800 RPM. The engine uses flex-fuel that is unleaded (E85). The tank can hold up to 24.6 gallons inside it. There are stabilizer bars in the suspension for a comfortable and smooth ride on all terrains.

Performance

It has rear wheel drive and a five speed shiftable automatic transmission. The range of the Durango is 393 miles in the city and on the highway is 565 miles. The estimated mpg on the highway is 23 and in the city is 16.

Exterior

This car comes with standard features. 18 inch alloy wheels are included with P265/60R18 all-terrain tires. Cargo tie downs are installed to help with towing and hauling, the maximum towing capacity is 5,000 lbs.

There are intermittent wipers and privacy glass on this SUV. Aluminum wheels, power sunroof and roof rails are all exterior options that can be added.

Interior

The seats in the rear and the passenger’s seat at the front can be folded down for additional cabin space. The seats are covered with cloth. There are heated mirrors, power door locks, mirrors and windows. Cruise control, door pockets, cup holders and electric power steering are standard features. AM/FM radio, Sirius, MP3 or CD are entertainment options. A total of six speakers are located throughout the vehicle.

Safety & Reliability

Dodge has high standards for safety when it comes to their vehicles and the Durango is no different. For drivers with families there are child seat anchors as well as door child safety locks in the rear. There are anti-lock brakes, stability/traction controls and tire pressure monitoring included as well.

Seatbelt pre-tensioners offer a safer ride for passengers along with the airbags located throughout the cabin near all the seats. The warranties that come are: Basic, Drivetrain, Roadside and Rust. Each of these have restrictions and only last for a given amount of period or miles, whichever comes first.

Pros

• Stylish exterior and interior
• A lot of optional additions that buyers can purchase
• Third row seat can fit an adult, not just children.
• Can tow more than other comparable SUVs.

Cons – Not as spacious as other competing SUVs.

Competition

In a way, the Durango may have been one of the earliest SUV/crossovers to be showcased by the American auto industry. Joining Dodge was the introduction of the GMC Acadia (MSRP $32,835; 17 city / 24 hwy), the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $29,660; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Ford Explorer (MSRP $28,280; 18 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Dodge Durango is a supremely comfortable three-row utility vehicle, with top-rate materials and a refined ride.”Car Connection

“Despite large overall dimensions and a heavy curb weight, Durango is surprisingly nimble, even with the base suspension and wheels. Steering and brake-pedal feel are quite good. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled.”Consumer Guide

“The Durango is based on the Jeep Grand Cherokee and boasts a spacious, quiet, and versatile cabin with a third-row seat that’s actually usable.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you need the passenger-carrying capability of a full-size SUV, as well as the ability to tow up to 7,400 pounds, check out the 2012 Dodge Durango.”KBB

“Sophisticated ride; easy to maneuver; adult-friendly third-row seat; powerful optional V8; generous towing capacity…Less cargo room than rivals; V6’s performance still not as sprightly as some rivals.”Edmunds