The 2012 Chevrolet Impala comes in the LS, LT and LTZ trims powered by a 3.6 liter V6 engine, which combines with a 6-speed transmission for better performance and a luxurious and smooth ride in all conditions.

The engine produces 300 horsepower, which is an improvement from the 2011’s 3.5L V6. This engine also outputs an improved 252 lb-ft of torque, which peaks at 5,300 rpm. Other notable features incorporated in the powertrain include: E85 FlexFuel capability, direct gasoline injection and variable calve timing.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $25,760.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17 gallons (64l)	MPG: 18 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 200.4 in. (509 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.5 in. (280.6 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149 cm)	Width: 72.9 in. (185.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3555 lbs (1612 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 18.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: VVT V6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 300 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LT	MSRP: $27,285; MPG: 18 city / 30 hwy
Option:LTZ	MSRP: $30,300; MPG: 18 city / 30 hwy

Exterior

The Impala has a stylish look, thanks to its aerodynamics. To start with, the twin back exhaust tips add to the aggressive rear fascia. The headlights sweep back along the sides of the hood, giving the exterior look another key feature.

The fog-light housing and the grille are adorned by a Malibu-like chrome mesh. The LS trim rides on a standard 16 inch alloy wheels, while the LT uses 17 inch alloy wheels. The LTZ trim on the other hand, rides on 18 inches alloy wheels and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Interior

The design of this sedan is unmatched by most luxury sedans that cost twice as much. The room is spacious and comfortable for enjoyable and smooth ride. The Impala is also flexible and offers several storage and seating options, which allows the customer to configure the interior for preferred space and passengers’ comfort.

This car can therefore accommodate 5 or 6 people, and still have enough room in the trunk for their cargo. Other notable interior features include: air conditioning, cruise control, Bluetooth, a satellite radio with a six speaker stereo, an auxiliary input and seat cushions in the rear seat which can be folded to provide an extra space where the customer can keep valuables. The Chevrolet Impala provides 18.6 cubic feet of trunk space.

Safety & Reliability

This sedan’s powertrain is backed by a 5-years or 100,000 miles warranty, which also includes road assistance. In addition to that, there is a warranty of 3-years or 36,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty. There are also several safety features which have been incorporated in this car to guarantee the driver and the passengers a reliable and safe ride.

Among these safety features is the StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, which assists the driver with directional control in difficult driving situations. The control has sensors which monitor the path being steered, and the turning direction. In case a difference is detected, the Impala applies brake pressure to the appropriate wheel to help the vehicle get back on track.

Other key safety features include: steel safety cage and six standard airbags. The Impala is fitted with an OnStar technology, which involuntarily connects the car to help though OnStar in the occurrence of a collision.

Pros

• Simple controls
• Large trunk
• Strong and efficient engine
• Decent power and fuel economy
• Available in six passenger seating

Cons

• Poorly made interior material
• Bland styling
• Sloppy handling

With the option of configuring the interior to accommodate six people, the Chevrolet Impala is suitable for medium size families. Its seating capacity therefore beats other large cars. The large trunk can effectively hold luggage for the entire family.

Competition

There are many vehicles that the Impala can be compared to in terms of price, performance, and longevity, they are the Toyota Avalon (MSRP $33,195; 19 city / 28 hwy), the Nissan Maxima (MSRP $32,420; 19 city / 26 hwy), and the old reliable Ford Taurus (MSRP $25,555; 18 city / 28 hwy).

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Chevrolet Impala has a roomy interior, with plenty of space for people and cargo; but shoppers who are comparing the Impala to other rivals should be aware that it’s an older design and hasn’t been kept up-to-date in some respects.”Car Connection

“The 2012 Chevrolet Impala sedan is the last of a dying breed. The nearest thing Chevrolet has to a full-size sedan, the 2012 Impala retains the classic American full-size attributes of a big, roomy cabin, an equally big trunk, and a soft, comfortable ride.”KBB

“Simple controls; available six-passenger seating; large trunk; strong and efficient engine…Cheap interior materials and construction; lackluster handling; bland styling; generally outpaced by the competition in most respects.”Edmunds

If you’re looking for plenty of Cargo space and good performance, This is a car you will want to check out.

It is a car that is made for those who want style and practicality at an affordable price.

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $31,360.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.2 in. (480.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.4 in. (270.5 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (184 cm)
Curb Weight: 3599 lbs (1633 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 31.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L Inline4 SOHC, i-VTEC®	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 201 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:TSX Sport Wagon w/ Tech Package

MSRP: $35,010; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy

Engine

With a 2.4 liter engine delivering 201-hp and 170 lbs of torque, you’re getting high performance as well as fuel efficiency. The all aluminum engine gives better weight distribution and that provides better agility and handling. the 4 Cylinder engine gets 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

Performance

The 5 speed automatic transmission is more than adequate for both city and highway driving. The front wheel drive is fine for city and highway driving and the brake system features a firm pedal that is responsive.

Exterior

The Acura TSX Sportwagon is an entry level luxury wagon that features 17 inch alloy wheels, Heated outside mirrors and automatic headlights. the re-designed spoiler and aerodynamic body style appeals to a wide variety of customers. This is a great looking vehicle with lean proportions and a warrior shield grille.

Its sleek look is great and some say it is just as attractive as the BMW wagon. The chrome trim and door handles say quality while the sleek side contour lines are there to give an almost sporty feel to the car. there are seven gorgeous colors to choose from and you will love the power sliding moon roof.

Interior

The soft perforated leather seats are just the beginning among the luxurious features you will find in the TSX Sportwagon. The heated front seats provide added comforted on cold days. The adjustable lumbar support in the drivers’ seat makes longer trips as comfortable as sitting in your favorite chair at home.

The Cabin space has 13 storage compartments so this car can easily stay clutter free. With several beverage holders so both those seated in the front and backseats will have no problem with spills. There are also deep pockets on the back of the front seats for extra the convenience of your passengers. The automatic climate control and adjustable vents keep the car comfortable. Most of the climate control functions respond to voice command.

You will be impressed with the ample cargo space and the head and leg room in both the front and back seats. This wagon is not as luxurious as the Cadillac CTS Sportwagon, but it has a gentler price tag and you do get your money’s worth and then some.

Safety & Reliability

This car has excellent safety scores and has received 5 out 5 stars for rollover testing. It has six standard air bags, stability control and anti-lock brakes, 3 point seat belts and active head restraints. there is also a tire pressure monitoring system.

The 2012 TSX Sportwagon Is equipped with a security system that comes standard. The body structure is designed to optimize occupant protection in the event of a frontal crash.

This awesome vehicle comes with a 4 year fifty thousand mile limited warranty and a 6 year / 70 thousand mile power train warranty.

Competition

The SportWagon segment provides a wide array of options to look, it all depends on your preference. In addition to the TSX, the Audi A4 Avant (MSRP $36,400; 21 city / 29 hwy), BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon (MSRP $37,500; 17 city / 26 hwy), and the Cadillac CTS SportWagon (MSRP $39,205; 18 city / 27 hwy), may be others you’d want to look at.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“And if it isn’t obvious from a first glance, we think that the Sport Wagon is far roomier than the larger, heavier, less useful and mostly ridiculous Acura ZDX crossover.”Car Connection

“This premium compact carves corners with grippy assurance and little body lean. The electronic steering system offers light effort at low speeds but firms up nicely on the highway or twisty mountain roads. The brakes deliver short, controlled stops.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Acura Sport Wagon continues relatively unchanged after its introduction in the 2011 model year. The Sport Wagon increases its cargo space by replacing the safety spare tire with a tire repair kit, a gain of 5.7 cubic feet.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The rear seats feature a 60/40 split design for cargo flexibility while the TSX Sport Wagon features a class-leading 66.2 cubic feet of cargo space – comparable to most compact SUVs.”KBB

“Impressive number of standard and technology features; spacious interior; sporty handling with V6 sedan and wagon; excellent build and materials quality. Button-happy center console; unimpressive braking performance; slightly underpowered four-cylinder.”Edmunds

The 2012 Acura TSX ranks well in the arena of upscale small cars. It combines utility and performance that are well suited for families. Upscale small cars are known to concentrate on performance rather than utility.

Acura must have found a way to combine both. As a result, car shoppers have a better option and that is the 2012 TSX.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $30,010.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 185.6 in. (471.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.5 in. (2705 cm)
Height: 56.6 in. (144 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (184 cm)
Curb Weight: 3479 lbs (1578 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L Inline4 DOHC, i-VTEC®	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 201 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:TSX Special Edition MT	MSRP: $31,010; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy
Option:TSX w/ Tech Package	MSRP: $33,110; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:TSX V6	MSRP: $35,550; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy
Option:TSX V6 w/ Tech Package	MSRP: $38,650; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy

Engine

The base 2012 TSX model comes with a 4-cylinder 2.4 liter engine that delivers 201 horsepower and 170 lbs/f of torque. This engine is paired with an automatic 5-speed transmission but car shoppers have the option to go for the 6-speed manual transmission. The other engine is a V6 3.5 liter engine that brings 280 horsepower and 254 lbs/ft of torque. It is only available with the 5-speed automatic transmission.

Performance

We prefer the V6 because it provides more power which makes merging and passing easier. The transmission is smooth and it greatly helps. If you are not after more power, the 2.4 liter engine is nevertheless adequate. We give good credits to Acura for making excellent engine options. The new TSX has good handling, but not on heavily curved roads because it has the tendency to understeer especially if you want a wide turn. Nonetheless, the brakes are responsive and can smoothly and swiftly stop the car.

Exterior

The front layout of the new TSX is sharp with its narrow headlights and front grille. The car does not have many lines and overstated curves, this makes it look neat. The TSX does not look sporty because its appearance tends to lean more on being serious. Its overall design might not be the one that youngsters would prefer but certainly, those who are in an older age bracket with a family will.

Interior

The quality of materials used for the TSX interior is excellent. The number of standard features is also attractive. In fact, the TSX may have all that shoppers are looking for from a base model. However, the 2012 TSX inherits the problems common in small cars. Its rear seat does not seem to occupy very tall adults comfortably. You would have to reserve it for the kids. The front seat, nonetheless, has plenty of legroom and headroom. The TSX also offers good outward visibility, another thing that we appreciate.

Safety

The 2012 Acura TSX received a “Good” score in all the tests performed by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, making it their Top Safety Pick. The federal government tested it but only for rollover. The car was given 5 out of 5 stars.

Reliability

The 2012 TSX comes with a standard 4-year warranty, a powertrain warranty that lasts for six years, a 5 year corrosion warranty and 24 hour road assistance that lasts for four years. One unusual warranty from Acura is the 15 year seat belt warranty. Acura has one of the most comprehensive warranties in the market.

Pros

The 2012 TSX has great engine options that are capable in city and highway driving. The quality of interior materials is excellent and there is a handful of standard features. The overall build is sturdy and the handling is good. Its fuel economy rating is good for its class. It is a Top Safety Pick of the IIHS.

Cons

Handling the TSX can get difficult during wide turns. The center console has too many buttons that can be confusing for the user.

With all its amazing features paired with top-of-the-class quality, the 2012 Acura TSX gives great value for your money – it is perfect for your young family.

Competition

The TSX is reasonably priced in comparison to the Lexus IS250 (MSRP $34,965; 21 city / 30 hwy), the Audi A4 (MSRP $32,500; 22 city / 30 hwy), and the BMW 3 Series (MSRP $34,900; 23 city / 34 hwy) which gets the best mileage amongst those previously mentioned.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The Acura TSX handles well for a front-wheel-drive sedan, and while the four-cylinder has enough gusto the V-6 adds some extra punch.”Car Connection

“This premium compact carves corners with grippy assurance and little body lean. V6 models are subject to some torque-steer wander, but it’s fairly well controlled. The electronic steering system offers light effort at low speeds but firms up nicely on the highway or twisty mountain roads. The brakes deliver short, controlled stops.”Consumer Guide

“The TSX is pleasant and mildly sporty, and available as either a sedan or wagon. Its smooth-revving engine, slick transmission, and agile handling make it enjoyable to drive.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Acura TSX sedan adds a new Special Edition Package consisting of several exterior design upgrades, unique red interior illumination, and microfiber seat inserts with red stitching. ”KBB

“Though not quite as compelling as a couple other rivals, the 2012 Acura TSX is nonetheless a smart choice for an entry-level luxury sedan or wagon.”Edmunds

The 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT is perhaps the only luxury sport utility truck on the market, and is equipped with many features that make it distinctly unique.

Engine

Under the hood lays a solid 6.2 liter V8 engine with 403 horsepower and 417 torque. All three trim options on this sport utility truck come with all wheel drive and a six speed automatic transmission.

This truck can tow up to a maximum of 7,600 pounds, with the advantage of keep the passengers surrounded in maximum comfort at the same time. The improved suspension leads to better handling than other SUV trucks as well. Fuel consumption is reasonable considering this vehicle’s total weight is 6,000 pounds; it averages 13 mpg in the city and 18 mpg in the highway.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV Crew Cab	Base Price: $63,060.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117l)	MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 222 in. (563.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 130 in. (330.2 cm)
Height: 74.5 in. (189.2 cm)	Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 5858 lbs (2657 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.2 in. (23.3 cm)
Max Cargo Capacity: 101 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec® V8 VVT AWD	Displacement: 6.2 Liter
Horsepower: 403 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 7600 lbs (3447 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Luxury	MSRP: $67,250; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Premium	MSRP: $69,640; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Interior

The interior is much quieter than earlier Escalade models with new special noise reduction glass windows, and rear privacy glass in the back further minimizes disturbances. With a five person capacity, this SUV truck has plenty of legroom and headroom for everyone.

The leather seats have built-in heating and cooling features, and in the front, the seats can be adjusted in 14 different ways. A complimentary satellite radio subscription for three months is also included with the new navigation system.

Exterior

The luxury trim of the EXT comes with 22 inch chrome alloy wheels, and the option of power retractable steps can also be added for further convenience. Exterior color choices include: Black Raven, Radiant Silver Metallic, or Diamond Tricoat.

Reliability

This vehicle is covered under warranty from bumper to bumper for up to four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. The powertrain has even longer coverage of up to five years or 100,000 miles. You can count on around the clock roadside assistance for five years or 100,000 miles as well, which includes courtesy transportation as needed. Additionally, the entire vehicle is guaranteed against corrosion damage for six years, irrespective of the mileage.

Safety

The Escalade EXT has all of the safety features one would expect, such as six passenger air bags, rear parking assist, stability control, a rearview camera, OnStar system, and a one year subscription to an automatic crash response system that alerts emergency vehicles when the passengers may be unable to respond.

Pros & Cons

The Cadillac Escalade EXT is intended for people who value lavish comforts and style along with the advantages of a truck’s capabilities. Those on a tighter budget often prefer less expensive trucks with better gas mileage and higher towing capacities, such as the Chevrolet Avalanche or Honda Ridgeline.

Some critics argue that a full-size pickup truck with a luxury trim is a better option for more power with comparable comfort; the Ram 1500 Laramie Longhorn is one such example. If you want the utmost options in comfort though, the Escalade EXT still remains a top choice by comparison.

Competition

There are a number of SUV Crew Cabs that may be compared to the EXT, the Mercedes GL450 (MSRP $62,570; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Infiniti QX56 (MSRP $60,000; 14 city / 20 hwy). There are others available at nearly half the cost, these include the Nissan Titan (MSRP $31,070; 13 city / 18 hwy) and the Toyota Tundra (MSRP $31,580; 14 city / 18 hwy). Your choice.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“If you are looking for a capable, full-size luxury SUV that isn’t shy about attracting attention, the 2012 Cadillac Escalade belongs in your driveway – since it probably won’t fit in your garage.”KBB

“ The 2012 Cadillac Escalade EXT owns the full-size luxury sport-utility truck segment with its distinctive style, luxurious appointments, versatility and commanding V8 performance. Then again, it’s the only full-size luxury sport-utility truck.”Edmunds

It is probably fair to say that not many people buy a Rolls-Royce Ghost because they want their car to appear inconspicuous on the road.

However, for those few for whom the standard Ghost is somehow not sufficiently eye-catching, it is, after all, smaller than its Phantom brother – there’s a special edition that is guaranteed to stand out wherever it goes: the 2012 Rolls-Royce Two-Tone Ghost.

Luxury & Style

A Rolls-Royce would not be a Rolls-Royce if it were not a very special car to climb into and the Two-Tone Ghost takes this feeling to a new level. The company has described it as “a work of art”, and looking at it, it’s hard to disagree.

The paintwork is a stunning blend of Infinity Black and Cassiopeia Silver, while little details such as carpets made of the finest lambs wool add to the sense of occasion a lucky owner will experience.

Performance

The all-new turbocharged V12, 6.6-liter engine produces more than 560 horsepower, enough to shift this 2.5-ton leviathan from a standstill to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited in some markets, but 155 mph is likely to be it, as the company used to say in years gone by, “sufficient.”

Driver Friendly

It’s no longer the case that a Rolls-Royce is aimed only at customers who prefer to be chauffeured around town. These days, the company places a much stronger emphasis on the driving experience too, and so the Two-Tone Ghost’s rear-wheel drive transmission provides precise and satisfying feedback.

This is never going to be a cheap car to run – it is said to return between 13 and 20 mpg, depending on the driving environment – but then, the 2012 Rolls-Royce Two-Tone Ghost is unlikely to be purchased by those who worry about gas prices.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.8 gallons (37854 liters)	MPG: 13 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 219.3 in. (556.9 cm)	Wheelbase: 136.4 in. (346.5 cm)
Height: 61 in. (155 cm)	Width: 76.7 in. (194.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 5556 lbs (2520 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 48 Valve V12 DOHC	Displacement: 6.6 liters
Horsepower: 563 HP	Max RPM: 4250 RPM
Torque: 575 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds	Top Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)