The 2012 Audi A6 is probably one of the best large luxury cars in the market. It boasts high quality interiors and competitive engines such as the supercharged V6. In this respect, the 4-cylinder A6 provides better fuel economy that is above average in its class.

From outside, the new Audi A6 does not seem to have many changes. But wait until you are behind the wheels.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $41,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75L)	MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 193.5 in. (492.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 114.6 in. (291.2 cm)
Height: 57.2 in. (146.8 cm)	Width: 82.1 in. (208.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3682 lbs (1670 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Turbo DOHC Inline 4	Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1
Horsepower: 211 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm	Transmission: CVT
0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Premium Quattro 3.0T V6

MSRP: $49,900; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy

Engine

There are two engines available for the 2012 Audi A6. First is the turbocharged 2.4 liter engine that delivers 211 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. Next is the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 engine that brings 310 horsepower and 325 lbs/ft of torque. By the numbers alone, car shoppers will clearly see that the new A6 is quick and capable. The automatic 8-speed transmission is also praised for its finesse and precision.

Performance

The A6 model that receives most praises is the all-wheel drive model primarily because it efficiently transfers power to the road. With excellent traction, you can utilize all the muscle that the A6 provides. It drives well in the city, on the highway and up the hills.

The new A6 steers lighter than expected but nevertheless handles better than its counterparts on twisty roads. The 3.0 A6 has a fuel economy rating of 29 mpg for highway and 19 mpg for city driving.

Exterior

There were no major changes in the exterior of the 2012 A6. It has the traditional front grille and headlights that are narrower. It hardly has lines and profound curves, making it look extra smooth. If we can describe the new A6 in one word, it would be polished. It does not look sporty because it is designed to look seriously luxurious.

Interior

Audi is known for creating top-of-the-class interiors and they definitely live up to that reputation with the new A6. The seats are made of leather and premium soft touch materials. The styling is beautifully done, too. The cabin is spacious and the seats are comfortable. Audi shoppers can customize the interior by opting for aluminum or wood trim. They can also go for Audi’s MMI, a user interface that can transform the car into a wireless hotspot.

Safety

The Insurance Institute on Highway Safety gave the new A6 a “good” score in all of the tests that it performed on the car. On this note, the A6 becomes a top safety pick for the IIHS. The federal government, however, is yet to subject the A6 to its own crash tests. The A6 also has standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes, airbags, Audi Pre Sense and blind spot monitors.

Reliability

The new Audi A6 comes with the standard 4-year warranty and 24 hour road assistance that will last as the basic warranty. After one year or 5,000 miles, the first scheduled maintenance is free. The warranty that Audi provides is average in its class and is acceptable.

Pros

In its class, the Audi A6 provides the best cabin and interior features. The seats are crafted excellently using high quality materials. The cabin is spacious and does not compromise driver and passenger comfort in any way. The A6 also has excellent handling which makes it perfect to various driving conditions without sacrificing the comfort of the passengers.

Cons

The only possible complaint that you can have with the A6 is the extra-light steering wheel that does not feel natural.

Competition

The A6 has been compared many times over with the BMW 5 Series sedan (MSRP $54,550; 23 city / 34 hwy) and the Mercedes Benz E Class (MSRP $52,990; 20 city / 30 hwy).

In all ways, the 2012 Audi A6 is a capable and a classy car making it a perfect choice for luxury car shoppers.

Overall Rating
82 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Audi A6 is billed as a five-seat sedan, but its relatively skimpy trunk space and fifth-passenger space has us thinking most buyers will be better off with the four-seat hatchback version of the same running gear–the Audi A7.”Car Connection

“The A6 feels sportiest in Dynamic mode, but lacks the agile, “tossable” feel of a comparable BMW 5-Series. Still, it corners with little body lean and reassuring stability, abetted in the 3.0T by standard all-wheel drive. Steering is accurate and quick, but the turning circle is fairly wide in all models. Braking is smooth and swift from any speed, and with little unwanted nosedive.”Consumer Guide

“The A6 sedan ranks among our top-scoring midsized luxury cars. The smooth and refined 310-hp, 3.0-liter supercharged V6 makes the car quick, yet it returned a respectable 22 mpg overall in our tests.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Audi A6 requires a lighter touch around town than a BMW 5 Series sedan. At the same time, it feels more athletic than the Mercedes-Benz E-Class.”KBB

“Finely finished interior; plenty of technology features; strong supercharged V6; fuel-efficient base four-cylinder engine.”Edmunds

The 2012 BMW M3 is coveted by car enthusiasts because it offers so much. From the luxurious interior design to the sleek exterior, this is a car that is meant for individuals who enjoy driving.

It is no longer available as a sedan, but the option of a hard top convertible is there. There are loads of features throughout the M3, some are new while others are classic. It handles well and has excellent reviews from both professional and regular car owners.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $60,100.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (62L)	MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 181.9 in. (462 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Height: 54.9 in. (139.4 cm)	Width: 70.2 in. (178.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3428 lbs (1554 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4.0L V8 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1
Horsepower: 414 HP	Max RPM: 8300 RPM
Torque: 295 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 155 mph (249 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Convertible

MSRP: $68,750; MPG: 13 city / 20 hwy

Engine

The coupe comes equipped with a gas 4.0 L V8 engine. The horsepower is 414 at 8,300 and the transmission is manual. Rear wheel drive comes standard with the M3. The power of the engine is what draws a lot of drivers in, this car can take off pretty quickly. It runs on premium unleaded fuel and can carry 16.6 gallons inside the tank. The turbocharged engine offers lower redlines for this car.

Performance

This car gets 14 miles per gallon in the city, 20 on the highway and 16 combined. The maximum torque is 295 pound-feet at 3,900 rpm. It also has the lightest V8 in the world, even lighter than the previous M3. It can go from 0-60 in only 4.7 seconds, which is something many other similar cars cannot do.

Exterior

The M3 has a unique body kit with a sleek design. The carbon fiber roof and bulge on the hood make the car look more sporty and aggressive. Aluminum wheels come standard and the tires on the front and rear are both high performance. There is a tire pressure monitoring system that helps the driver stay safe while on the road. There is also a rear spoiler located on the back to give the car a sporty and young vibe.

Interior

The inside of the cabin has a beautiful and elegant design. The steering wheel has all controls on it so the driver can turn on the radio and switch stations as well. There is an auxiliary power outlet that is also located inside the cabin. Keyless entry, driver vanity mirrors, power steering and heated mirrors all come standard for buyers.

In addition to this, there is climate control and a dual zone a/c to keep all passengers comfortable. The entertainment system includes: cassette, HD radio, am/fm radio, and a CD player and MP3 player. The navigation system gives directions and allows the driver to use hands-free communication.

Safety & Reliability

The airbags in the car include: passenger, rear head, driver, side head and side. There is 4-wheel ABS brakes and brake assist to help the driver keep control of the car. Electronic stability control also contributes to a safer driving experience.

Pros

The car is light and livelier than similar vehicles.
It’s quick and very powerful.
The top speed it can reach is 155 mph.

There aren’t many bad things about this vehicle, making it the best M3 that BMW has released.

Competition

The Cadillac CTS V coupe (MSRP $63,215; 14 city / 19 hwy), the Mercedes Benz C Class (MSRP $61,430; 15 city / 22 hwy), and the steeply priced Porsche 911 Carrera (MSRP $79,000; 18 city / 25 hwy) are perhaps some of the main competitors of BMW for attention in this class of cars.

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“The M3’s comfortable front seats and a well-constructed interior are somewhat offset by the cramped rear seats and somber interior atmosphere.”Car Connection

“The 2012 BMW M3 gains as standard equipment an anti-theft alarm system, floor mats, and iPod/USB adaptor, Bluetooth and BMW Assist.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Notably, as of 2012 the M3 4-door is no more; this is a 3 Series variant those wanting to travel at 150 mph (with their kids) will certainly miss. Going forward, the new sedan makes its debut first, after which BMW will fill in the coupe, convertible and wagon gaps.”KBB

“Sublime high-revving V8; otherworldly handling; relaxed highway ride; convertible’s sleek retractable hardtop…Limited interior storage; relatively cramped rear seat.”Edmunds

The 2012 Cadillac Escalade is powered by a 6.2L V8 engine, which produces 403 horsepower and 417 lb-ft of torque. Remarkably, this SUV can splint from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.8 seconds. The engine is capable of running on a mixture of 15% gasoline and 85% ethanol.

The engine also has an Active Fuel Management technology which senses when full 8 cylinder power in not necessary. When this happens, the engine automatically adjusts to run on 4 cylinder saving fuel. The engine is further enhanced by a Hydra-Matic heavy-duty 6-speed automatic transmission.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $63,170.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98l)	MPG: 14 city / 18 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: 5545 lbs (2515 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec® V8 VVT 2WD	Displacement: 6.2 Liter
Horsepower: 403 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 8300 lbs (3764 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Luxury	MSRP: $67,395; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy
Option:Premium	MSRP: $71,675; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy
Option:Platinum Edition	MSRP: $79,945; MPG: 14 city / 18 hwy

Exterior

The Escalade, is available in Luxury, Base, Platinum Edition and Premium trim editions. The Base edition is available with a standard 18 inches wheels, sunroof, and automatic high beams; while the Luxury edition comes with a standard 22 inches chromed aluminum wheels. The premium has most exterior characteristics of the Luxury edition, but the wheels are painted. The Platinum Edition has a unique grille and wheels and comes with LED headlamps.

Interior

The Cadillac Escalade has a standard 7-passanger seats, with second-row captain’s chairs and a 3-person third-row bench seat. When the vacant second-row bench is added, the overall seat capacity gets to 8. The third row seats can be removed to create a 60.3 cubic feet of luggage room at the back of the second row seats.

The interior is trimmed in stylish brushed aluminum accents and polished chrome. Other key interior features include: a premium 10 speaker Bose 5.1 surround sound system, supple leather trimmed front seats, and a leather and wood-trimmed steering wheel. Other innovative technology features include a control center and a Side Blind Zone Alert.

Safety & Reliability

The Escalade comes with several standard safety features which are designed to make the SUV reliable during a ride. Some of the key safety features include: full length side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, rear parking sensors, OnStar emergency telematics, stability and traction control, rear view camera and front side-impact airbags. When on the road, this Cadillac delivers a rapid increase of velocity at all speed due to its big engine.

Pros

• Unique visual presence.
• Civilized road manners.
• Gusty engine.
• Ability to carry people and cargo simultaneously.
• Quick acceleration
• Many standard features.

Cons

• Insufficient third-row seat legroom.
• Poor braking performance.
• Low fuel economy.
• Uncomfortable to maneuver in tight spaces.

The Cadillac Escalade is one of the most identifiable SUVs in the market. It is suitable for big families, and for people who love style and brawn. Another reason why this Escalade is liked by many people, is due to its reliability and aggressiveness when on the road. It also scores better when considering safety matters than other luxury SUVs. Moreover, Platinum and Premium models have comfort features which make the SUV to be preferred by many customers.

It is also possible to create more room for luggage when the third row seat is folded. The 2012 Cadillac Escalade has an improved navigation system, and an improved security system. This is yet another reason why anybody wishing to buy a luxury large SUV, would opt for the 2012 Escalade.

Competition

Only the Mercedes GL450 (MSRP $62,570; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy) have been identified as the main competitors of the Escalade. There are others available depending on your preference.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Cadillac Escalade lacks refinement in some ways, and isn’t as versatile as modern crossovers, but its lavish interior is supremely comfortable.”Car Connection

“Though this is a large vehicle, Escalades are stable and confident in low-to-moderate speed changes of direction.”Consumer Guide

“Acceleration is strong even when towing a heavy load, but fuel economy is a poor 13 mpg overall. The interior is quiet, and the ride is comfortable, but the small third-row seat is too low and doesn’t fold into the floor.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Due to its sheer size and weight it should come as no surprise that the 2012 Cadillac Escalade lacks razor-sharp agility and steering.”KBB

“Unique visual presence; long list of standard features; gutsy V8; civilized road manners…Third-row seat lacks legroom and must be removed to maximize cargo space; lackluster braking performance; low fuel economy; high rate of theft.”Edmunds

The 2012 BMW 5-Series is up to the competition in the arena of large luxury sedans. However, it is not as sporty as other sedans.

Nevertheless, the 5-Series provides a high degree of comfort and the nimbleness that the 5-Series is known for remains.

Apart from that, the 5-Series boasts competitive wheel and handling packages.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $46,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 20 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 193.1 in. (490.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 116.9 in. (296.9 cm)
Height: 57.6 in. (146.3 cm)	Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3814 lbs (1730 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 TwinTurbo DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 240 HP	Max RPM: 5000-6000 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 1250-4800 rpm	Transmission: X-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:528i xDrive	MSRP: $49,200; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy
Option:535i 6 Cylinder	MSRP: $52,500; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Option:535i xDrive 6 Cylinder	MSRP: $54,800; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy
Option:550i 4.4L V8	MSRP: $62,000; MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy
Option:550i xDrive 4.4L V8	MSRP: $64,300; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

Engine

There are three engines available for the 5 Series. First is the turbocharged inline-four 2.0 liter engine that delivers 240 horsepower and 260 lbs/ft of torque. The second engine is an inline-six turbocharged 3.0 liter engine that produces 300 horsepower and 300 lbs/ft of torque.

If you want more power, the turbocharged 4.4 liter V8 engine that brings out 400 horsepower and 450 lbs/ft or torque is available.

Performance

If you choose the right package, you can still get the athleticism that the previous 5 Series models provide. By default though, the new 5 Series focuses more on comfort. You get adequate power from its competitive engines. And although the base engine has fewer cylinders than its predecessor, it does not lack horses and torque.

In fact, it even became more fuel efficient. And although the base models do not come as sporty as the old 5 Series models, the excellent handling performance is not lost.

Exterior

The 2012 5 Series is not as bulky as other large luxury cars. Thanks to its fine lines and exquisite curves and edges. From a perspective, the new 5 Series looks rather serious than sporty. Perhaps that is to give drivers an idea about what they will experience inside. The stance is neither too aggressive nor too passive.

Interior

Built from the finest materials, the interior of the new 5 Series is truly luxurious. The iDrive in this car is more intuitive than it is in other BMW car models. The electronics are also praised for being convenient to use.

The front seats provide enough support and comfort but this trait is not entirely present in the back seat. Taller adults may feel lack in legroom. Overall the interior for the new 5 Series can be considered as upscale.

Safety

The 5 Series is a Top Safety Pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. That is for scoring “good” in all crash tests that the institution performed. On the other hand, the federal government gave the 5 Series 5 out of 5 stars. Optional safety features of the 5 Series are pedestrian detection and night vision systems as well as a blind spot monitoring system.

Reliability

The 5 Series comes with a standard 4-year warranty. The first scheduled maintenance after one year is free of charge and owners are given the 24 hour roadside assistance during the first four years of ownership. A 12-year corrosion perforation warranty is also included.

Pros

It has a capable engine paired with excellent handling. The cabin is more comfortable than previous models. The attractive interior is made of top-quality materials and the interior features are more user friendly than ever. There are generous upgrade options that can make the car truly sporty. Moreover, the 5 Series has excellent safety scores.

Cons

The new 5 Series has a smaller cargo space. It is not as sporty as the previous 5 Series models.

The 2012 BMW 5 Series may not be as sporty as before but it still is generous with a great package that is just right for its big price. Other options that may be worth looking at include the Mercedes C350 Sport (MSRP $40,575; 20 city / 29 hwy), the Acura TL (MSRP $41,635; 20 city / 29 hwy), and the Audi A6 (MSRP $41,700; 25 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 BMW 5-Series has a very traditional sport-sedan interior, if you look at seating layout, but it’s also a comfortable, quiet luxury sedan whenever you need it to be.”Car Connection

“With their base suspensions, all 5-Series cars are well-balanced, agile, and composed. When ordered with the Sport Package, BMW’s Active Roll Stabilization is available.”Consumer Guide

“Regardless of drivetrain, the 2012 BMW 5 Series family provides a balanced approach to over-the-road performance.”KBB

“Possessing a strong combination of performance, comfort and technology, the 2012 BMW 5 Series is a top choice in the midsize luxury sedan segment. However, BMW loyalists may be a bit disappointed.”Edmunds

The 2012 Tushek Renovatio T500 is based on the K1 attack Roadster which was revealed by Oliver Ashley in 2010.

The exterior design of this vehicle, gives it a look of a supercar, with the scissor doors and removable hardtop, inspired by the Lamborghini Gallardo Spyder Performante.

The Renovatio T500 sits on aluminum forged wheels with centre locking measuring 8.5 by 19 inches at the front, and 10 by 19 inches at the back. Moreover, the chassis is made of chrome-moly steel, while the body is made from carbon fiber and composites, which help keep the car’s weight to a minimum.

Interior

The Tushek Renovatio T500’s interior design is loaded with luxury features which include the leather and Alcantara interior, automatic climate control, navigation system and keyless entry.

Other optional features include: heated seats, track day kit, titanium exhaust system and a rear view camera.

Performance

The Tushek Renovatio T500 (2012) is powered by a V8 Audi RS4 engine. This is complimented with a six speed manual gearbox.

The 4.2 liter FSI engine produces 450 horsepower at 7,900 rpm. At 3,200 rpm, it produces 316 lbs-ft of torque. It can sprint from 0-60 mph in just 3.7 seconds and reach 124mph in just 11.5 seconds. Amazingly, the entire braking process takes less than 29 meters. The top speed of this vehicle is 193 mph.

Innovations

The 2012 Renovatio T500 which will be available to only 30 customers, and tailored individually to the customer; will utilize notable racing technologies including carbon brakes, latest FSI engine, double wishbone remote internally mounted coil-covers, and AIM PISTA instrumentation.

By incorporating these latest technologies, the Renovatio T500 is designed to become the fastest supercar on the circuit and also the lightest one using a V8 engine. This car debuted at the 2012 Top Marques Monaco Show.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport Coupe	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gallons (45 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 164.9 in. (419 cm)	Wheelbase: 96 in. (244 cm)
Height: 41.3 in. (105 cm)	Width: 78.3 in. (199 cm)
Curb Weight: 2402 lbs (1090 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: Audi RS4 V8	Displacement: 4.2 liter
Horsepower: 450 HP	Max RPM: 7900 RPM
Torque: 316 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds	Top Speed: 193 mph (310 km/h)