The 2012 Cadillac CTS is full of a variety of features and offers a sleek, yet functional design. This vehicle handles well and is designed for performance driving.

It appeals to drivers of all ages, but the price is generally more suitable for individuals who are able to spend more. There are a lot of options available, but the regular package does offer everything a driver could need.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $35,915.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68l)	MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.3 in. (485.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.4 in. (288 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm)	Width: 72.5 in. (184.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 3854 lbs (1748 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: Direct Injection V6 VVT RWD	Displacement: 3.0 Liter
Horsepower: 270 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 223 lb-ft @ 5700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Luxury	MSRP: $39,050; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:Performance	MSRP: $42,290; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Premium	MSRP: $48,290; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Engine Performance

A 3.0L direct injection V6 VVT engine comes standard with all CTS models with an option for the 3.6L 318 HP. The transmission is a 6-speed automatic and there is battery rundown protection included. The anti-lock brakes offer safe driving and the drivetrain have rear-wheel drive. An electronic parking brake is also built in, which is a switch that makes it easy to engage when it’s needed.

Sport suspension, traction control and a stability enhancement system are all included as well. The estimated fuel economy in the city is 18 MPG and on the highway it’s 27 MPG. The tank capacity is 18 gallons of fuel total.

Exterior

The tires on this car are 18″ all-season and have multi-coated painted wheels. Daytime running lamps are included, as are halogen Tungsten headlamps. Heated outside mirrors offer better visibility in all weather conditions and front intermittent washers with wipers come included as well.

The dark-accented grille and optional rear spoiler add a sporty touch to this luxury car. Colors available include: white diamond tri-coat, crystal red tint coat, black raven and several others.

Interior

The audio system includes 8 Bose speakers and can play both MP3s and CDs. SiriusXM Satellite Radio is also included with all models. The rearview mirror automatically dims to reduce glare when driving at night. Automatic dual-zone climate control allows both the passenger and driver to control the temperature on their side of the vehicle.

The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and has controls for audio mounted onto it. Rear park assist activates when the car is shifted into reverse and warns the driver when they are too close to something. The split-folding rear seat creates more room in the back to help drivers fit large items they need to transport.

Safety

Dual-stage front air bags for both the passenger and driver are standard. There is also a passenger sensing system that determines if the front air bag needs to be on or off. There are front and rear outboard head curtain air bags along with front seat side-impact air bags.

A child seat restraint system is included to keep children of all ages safe, even during collisions. OnStar is also included for drivers that want added safety and security while driving. Other safety features include: StabiliTrak, tire pressure monitoring system and traction control.

Pros

Roomy cabin for people of all sizes.
Child friendly seats that is easy to adjust.
High tech features.
Elegant design with the Cadillac name.
Design that drivers of all ages can enjoy.

Cons

Price is a bit expensive for some buyers.
Difficult rear visibility for some individuals.
Uncomfortable seating position while driving.
Similar to other vehicles that are lower in price.

Competition

A tight race is what the luxury sedan is all about. Other models the CTS has been matched up against include the XTS, also from Cadillac (MSRP $44,075; 17 city / 28 hwy), along with the 4 cylinder the BMW 528i (MSRP $47,795; 23 city / 34 hwy), BMW 3 Series (MSRP $36,500; 23 city / 34 hwy) and the Audi A6 (MSRP $42,200; 25 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Cadillac CTS Coupe and Sedan can be a little tight inside, and the front seats aren’t perfect, but the Sport Wagon makes great use of the footprint.”Car Connection

“Steering feel is precise, and lean in corners is well checked, though this Cadillac doesn’t feel quite as agile in quick transitions as its rivals. Brake feel and performance are impressive on all models.”Consumer Guide

“The CTS is as capable as its German rivals. It has a firm yet supple ride and steers nicely.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Through twisty two-lanes, fast freeways, urban congestion and mixed-speed suburban sprawl, we came to appreciate the 2012 Cadillac CTS’ responsive steering, world-class roadholding and powerful brakes.”KBB

“Roomier cabin than similarly priced rivals; elegant interior design; nifty gadgets; capable and secure handling; excellent safety scores…Not as nimble as similarly priced rivals; sport suspensions may be too firm for some; poor rear visibility; awkward driving position.”Edmunds

The 2012 BMW 3-Series Wagon is at the top of the list of luxury wagons. That’s because it brings an excellent package that combines performance, luxury and practicality.

The 3-Series Wagon does not contain as many updates as its sedan sibling but nevertheless it impressed test drivers because the winning formula is retained. Indeed, there is no reason for BMW to mess with the wagon’s winning assets.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $37,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.1 gallons (61L)	MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 178.6 in. (453.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276.1 cm)
Height: 55.8 in. (141.7 cm)	Width: 71.5 in. (181.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3594 lbs (1630 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (13.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 25.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L Inline 6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.7: 1
Horsepower: 230 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:328i xDrive

MSRP: $39,500; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine

The 2012 3 Series Wagon has a 6-cylinder 3.0 liter engine that delivers 230 horsepower and 200 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with a manual 6-speed transmission but car buyers have the option to go for the automatic.

According to the EPA, the 3 Series Wagon has a fuel economy rating, for the automatic transmission model, of 27 mpg for highway and 18 mpg for city driving. You have to reduce those numbers by one to get the rating for the manual transmission.

Performance

The 3 Series Wagon provides adequate power. Acceleration is smooth and the engine is responsive. Most test drivers agree that the 3 Series Wagon is one of the most balanced in its class. Consequently, it is also one of the best handling.

The balance and the nimbleness of the wagon can be better experienced in the all-wheel drive model. It enhances the grip and stability, making the wagon resilient in different driving conditions.

Exterior

The front layout of the 3 Series Wagon bears the trademark front grille and the organically shaped headlights. There are subtle edges on the hood that help define an exquisite shape. The sides have slightly protruding edges that help outline the lower and upper sections of the wagon. The balance in its looks seems to foreshadow what the driver will experience behind the wheel.

Interior

The interior of the 3 Series Wagon, which is made of quality materials, is driver focused. The seats provide enough support and comfort both for the driver and the passengers. However, the iDrive system in the wagon is not as friendly as those that are in BMW SUVs.

The front seats are spacious enough for adults but the back seat seems to lack legroom for taller passengers – a thing that is common for most cars.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the federal government is yet to extensively crash test the 3 Series Wagon. Nonetheless, it has a handful of safety features such as adaptive brake lights, anti-lock brakes and air bags. The 3 Series Wagon also features a crash sensor that disconnects the starter, fuel pump and battery, turns on the hazard lights, and unlocks the doors after a crash.

Reliability

The 3 Series Wagon comes with a 4-year standard warranty and 24 hour roadside assistance that lasts for four years. The first scheduled maintenance is free of charge. The warranty for the 3 Series Wagon is average in its class. The 2012 Cadillac CTS Sport Wagon offers longer powertrain warranty.

Pros

The 3 Series Wagon has a capable engine that is smooth and responsive. It has high quality interiors and the seats provide optimum support and comfort. The wagon has balance, excellent road grip and impressive handling. The looks complement the performance of the wagon. The safety features are above reproach.

Cons

The backseat is cramped for tall adults and the iDrive system is not as intuitive as in the iDrive in the SUVs.

With a capable engine, excellent handling and an overall balanced performance, the 2012 BMW 3 Series Wagon is worth its price. The Acura TSX (MSRP $30,010; 22 city / 31 hwy) and the Audi A4 Avant (MSRP $36,400; 21 city / 29 hwy) have been compared to the 3 Series Wagon.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“But BMW has confirmed that it will sell the new-generation 3-Series Sports Wagon in the U.S., beginning in early 2013.”Car Connection

“The 2012 BMW 3-Series Wagon includes a standard complement of expected and federally mandated safety features. Front- and rear-obstacle detection and adaptive cruise control are optional.”Consumer Guide

“By almost any important measure the redesigned BMW 3 Series sedan is an excellent car.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 3 Series sedan is all-new for 2012, but the other body styles carry over unchanged. Regardless, this BMW stalwart remains a well-rounded and highly desirable entry-level luxury car.”Edmunds

The 2012 Acura MDX competes well in the arena of midsize luxury SUVs. Overall, the new Acura MDX provides good value, comfortable interior and sporty performance.

The best thing about the new MDX is it is one of the most affordable SUVs in its class. Most competitors that offer cheaper SUVs don’t have the same quality that the MDX provides.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $43,030.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters)	MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.6 in. (486.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm)
Height: 68.2 in. (173.3 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 4594 lbs (2084 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.2 in. (20.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 83.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L V6 SOHC VTEC®	Compression Ratio: 11.2: 1
Horsepower: 300 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (4536 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:MDX w/ Tech Package	MSRP: $46,705; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy
Option:MDX w/ Advance Package	MSRP: $52,665; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy

Engine

The 2012 Acura MDX comes with a V6 3.7 liter engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 270 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with an automatic 6-speed transmission together with paddle shifters. From a standstill, the MDX does not accelerate fast but once it gains speed, you will start feeling its power. The transmission is responsive and smooth, thus complementing the muscle that the MDX supplies.

Performance

Despite its size, the MDX delivers a performance that you can get from sport sedans. It does not give the same comfort that the Lexus RX 350 offers but the sports tuning and smooth handling make it one of the most fun to drive SUVs in the market. If you are fond of weekend adventures, the MDX is definitely for you.

Exterior

The front layout for the Acura MDX looks like all Acura cars. But since the MDX is bigger, the headlights and the front grille are a bit wider. Still, there are no organic curves and flowing lines so the MDX looks as smooth and sleek as ever. It is not devoid of all the sportiness though, because its stance will make you feel that it is ready for a fun ride.

Interior

The cabin of the new MDX is luxurious, supportive and comfortable. Standard in the MDX is the leather upholstery and heated front seats that are 10-way power adjustable. The first and second rows have adequate legroom and headroom for adults but the third row should be reserved for children. The MDX is targeted at families that have kids. The only complaint that we have is the confusing center console because it has too many buttons.

Safety

The MDX scored “good” in all tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. On that note, it has become a Top Safety Pick of IIHS. The federal government gave it 4 out of 5 stars, on the other hand. The MDX is equipped with a collision mitigation braking system that detects an imminent accident. It alerts the driver and starts braking at that moment.

Reliability

The MDX comes with the standard 4-year warranty, a powertrain warranty that lasts for six years, and 5-year corrosion warranty. These warranties are common in its class so we can conclude that the reliability for MDX is average in its class.

Pros

The Acura MDX has a capable engine and excellent handling, making it ideal for fun loving people. The cabin is spacious and is specifically designed for families with children. The quality of the interior is worth mentioning, too. The base MDX comes with plenty of standard features that other SUVs provide only in their upgrades. The MDX provides great value for its price.

Cons

The center console is studded with buttons which make it look busy. If you are more comfort-oriented, you will find the MDX a little harsher because of its sports tuning.

The drawbacks of the MDX are clearly outweighed by its outstanding features. Without a doubt, the 2012 Acura MDX is one of the best choices in the arena of midsize luxury SUVs.

Competition

There are other SUVs that can be compared to the MDX, these include the Volvo XC90 (MSRP $39,500; 16 city / 23 hwy), the Lexus RX350 (MSRP $40,710; 18 city / 24 hwy), and the higher priced BMW X5 (MSRP $47,500; 16 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Acura MDX has three rows of seating and a rather boxy exterior that promises a lot of utility. And even though the MDX is a luxury vehicle, it’s quite the cargo workhorse for weekend projects.”Car Connection

“Advance models with the suspension in Sport mode shine here, exhibiting good control of body lean and sharper steering response than with the base suspension. Steering and brake feel are fine. Despite good handling prowess, we don’t think it’s worth the toll on ride quality exacted by the adjustable suspension on Advance models.”Consumer Guide

“The well-rounded MDX is very enjoyable and competitively priced. It rides well and its refined powertrain provides smooth and quick acceleration and an average of 18 mpg with the slick six-speed automatic.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“A navigation system that provides real-time traffic and weather info and an audio system that delivers amazing 6-channel Surround Sound via any medium you want make this option group a must-have. SH-AWD- Apply some power in a hard corner and the MDX’s Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system transfers extra torque to the rear outside wheel, delivering truer steering response and perceptibly higher cornering limits.”KBB

“Capable handling; user-friendly high-tech features; finely crafted interior; relatively roomy third-row seat. Not as much interior space as some larger rivals; busy control layout.”Edmunds

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro combines the iconic style of the past, with the technology of the today. It’s still a sporty, retro style, with Chevrolet engineering technology that is an affordable sports car with power and great handling.

The new Camaro is offered as a sporty coupe, or convertible, and four models to choose from. The 2012 Camaro LS, LT, and SS models differ in engine power, transmission, trim, and price. Each model delivers great handling, a sporty appearance, and value.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $23,280.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (71l)	MPG: 17 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.4 in. (483.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.3 in. (285.2 cm)
Height: 54.2 in. (137.6 cm)	Width: 75.5 in. (191.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 3780 lbs (1714 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 11.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: V6 DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 323 HP	Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 3.9 seconds*	Maximum Speed: 184 mph* (296 km/h)

*Based on ZL1

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2LS	MSRP: $24,480; MPG: 18 city / 29 hwy
Option:1LT	MSRP: $25,280; MPG: 17 city / 28 hwy
Option:2LT	MSRP: $28,430; MPG: 17 city / 28 hwy
Option:1SS V8	MSRP: $32,280; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:2SS V8	MSRP: $35,880; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:ZL1 580 HP V8	MSRP: $54,095; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy

Engine

Overall, the 2012 Camaro tops the 2011 model, with more horsepower. The LS and LT models comes equipped with a 3.6 liter, V6 engine producing 323 horsepower, and is available in automatic or manual transmission. The Camaro SS model increases the horsepower to 426, with its 6.2 liter, V8 engine. Variable valve timing, combined with direct injection ensures power and performance.

Performance

The Camaro has independent rear suspension, and its weight ratio has great front-to-rear balance. With variable-ratio power steering, and its chassis tuned to handle turns and transitional driving situations, the handling of the 2012 Camaro is superior.

The Camaro is very comfortable when handling, providing cornering grip, and confidence. The Camaro manual transmission LS and LT models will provide 28 mpg on the highway, and 17 mpg in the city fuel economy, while the automatic transmission will provide 29 mpg highway, and 18 mpg city driving.

Exterior

The Camaro features a long hood, with a short rear deck, giving it a retroactive look. The cleanly creased body with long lines and wide fenders give it a sporty muscle car appearance. The sculpted rear shoulders and deeply-set, high-intensity LED headlights, add to the Camaro’s sporty look.

The body is available in eight colors: blue, orange, yellow, silver, white, red, grey, and black. The 45th anniversary edition package adds unique stripes in red and silver, with a carbon-black body color, and 20-inch wheels.

Interior

The cabin of the Camaro has a retro-styled interior. It has wide front-passenger seats, with updated gauges and steering wheel. The dash, console, and door panels are of hard plastic, and seats are made of cloth, in either ash gray, or black. The steering wheel is revised to include thumb grips, and controls for audio functions. The standard 6-way adjustable driver seat is also available for the front passenger seat now.

The Camaro is equipped with a rear vision camera, and self-adjustable Head-Up Display (HUD), which displays the traveling speed, RPMs, and radio station selected, on the windshield. Other features provided in the Camaro interior are: OnStar Navigation with Remote Link, SiriusXM Radio, Bluetooth technology, Boston Acoustics, and Remote Start options.

Safety & Reliability

The wider tires, communicative steering and refined rear suspension, makes handling corners effortless. Six standard airbags, including side curtain air bags are provided, and StabiliTrak technology with 4-wheel disc brakes and hydraulic brake assist, are provided for driving ease and safety reassurance. The Camaro has the power of a sports car, but is also very agile, and easy to handle.

Comparison

In the affordable sports car category, the Camaro trails in performance to the Ford Mustang (MSRP $22,310; 19 city / 29 hwy). The Camaro is more powerful, but the car is heavier. The Mazda Miata, Ford Mustang and Nissan 37OZ (MSRP $33,580; 19 city / 26 hwy), have better fuel mileage, and slightly better interior qualities, including more trunk space and back seat passenger space. The Dodge Challenger (MSRP $25,195; 17 city / 25 hwy) has the largest trunk, and will seat five comfortably.

The 2012 Chevrolet Camaro does seem to have the most stylish looks however, along with composed handling, agility, and an interior loaded with essential features. The Camaro, with an iconic, retro look, great power, handling, and performance safety, could just be in your price range, and can be personalized with your own preferences, from the various models offered.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“Though it’s not the best environment for taller drivers, and there’s no surplus of cargo space, the 2012 Chevy Camaro is comfortable, quiet, and generally well-built.”Car Connection

“Both LT and SS Camaros corner with good grip and minimal body lean. ”Consumer Guide

“The Camaro has classic muscle car looks and sound.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re looking for a high-performance machine that offers the best dollar-to-horsepower ratio in the business, check out the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro. In SS form, it outmuscles most exotics costing twice as much.”KBB

“For tire-burning power and Hollywood flash, it doesn’t get much better than the 2012 Chevrolet Camaro.”Edmunds

Powerful and roomy, the 2012 Dodge Charger is a favorite among reviewers and test drivers. The new, optional, eight-speed automatic transmission makes all the difference with this affordable midsize vehicle with its V6 engine.

The new transmission keeps it affordable compared to the Charger’s V8 version, even as it preserves the V6’s lightness and agility. The 2012 Charger also has stellar fuel economy. This vehicle was made for people who want a family sedan that delivers a dynamic, responsive, and vigorous driving experience.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $25,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.1 gallons (72l)	MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 199.9 in. (507.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 120.2 in. (305.3 cm)
Height: 58.4 in. (148.3 cm)	Width: 75 in. (190.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3961 lbs (1796 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.0 in. (12.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: V6 VVT Pentastar DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 292 HP	Max RPM: 6350 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds*	1/4 Mile: 12.6 seconds*

*On SRT8 model

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SXT RWD	MSRP: $28,595; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:R/T 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $29,995; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:SXT Plus	MSRP: $30,595; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:R/T Plus 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $31,995; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:R/T Max 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $36,195; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:R/T Road & Track Package	MSRP: $33,995; MPG: 16 city / 25 hwy
Option:SRT8® Super Bee 6.4L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $42,625; MPG: NA
Option:SRT8® 6.4L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $47,425; MPG: NA

The 2012 Charger comes in three trims: the base SE trim, the SXT, the R/T and the SRT8. The SE and the SXT have V6 engines and the SXT has the eight speed automatic transmission. The R/T comes with a V8 engine. All wheel drive is optional on both the V6 and V8 engines.

Engine

The 2012 Charger now comes with a 3.6 liter V6 engine that delivers 292 horsepower, while the R/T model has a 5.7 liter Hemi V8 engine that has 370 horsepower. The V8 Charger doesn’t offer the eight speed option, though test drivers pray that that option is coming soon.

The base Charger gets about 18 miles per gallon in the city and 27 mpg on the highway with the five speed transmission. It also has an optional eight speed transmission that gets better mileage.

Performance

The performance of the Charger is unbeatable. Test drivers claim that the car doesn’t handle as well as a smaller car might, but then again, it can’t be expected to. Other say that they appreciate the car’s precise steering, while a few complained that the steering was too light for them. The brakes are up to par with the other vehicles in the same class.

Exterior

The sleek look of this new once “pony car” turn heads. Men might be interested to know that women especially seemed to like the Charger’s looks.

Interior

Some say that the back seat can be cramped for people over six feet tall, but for people under six feet, there was plenty of room. The material in the cabin were also of high quality, including the fabric covering on the pillars and the dashboard’s aluminum trim. The dashboard display was also easy to read and the optional touch screen navigation system was also good to have, though it sometimes had trouble with voice commands.

One of the few areas where the Charger might trail its competitors is the cargo space. It has 15.4 cubic feet of trunk space, while the Ford Taurus is roomier in the trunk. Some complained that the trunk lid was too high for them to comfortably handle.

Safety

The Charger received excellent safety ratings. One car safety institution gave it their highest score of “Good” in all crash tests and another named it one of its Top Safety Picks.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the Charger a 3.0 out of 5 rating. It has a three year or 36,000 mile warranty. However, there have been three recalls associated with the Dodge Charger. One was because of problems in the electrical system, another was because of problems in the tires, and the third was because of problems with the engine cooling system.

Pros

The 2012 Charger can’t be beat for performance, and continues the tradition of mighty previous Dodge Chargers. It’s a powerful, exciting car to drive.

Cons

Some test drivers thought the back seat could be uncomfortable for very tall people.

Competition

The Charger may be compared to the likes of the Nissan Maxima (MSRP $32,420; 19 city / 26 hwy), Ford Taurus (MSRP $25,555; 18 city / 28 hwy), and the Chevy Impala (MSRP $25,760; 18 city / 30 hwy). All these vehicles are evenly matched performance wise, the only question is, what is it you want? The Charger easily outclasses other rivals like the Toyota Avalon and the Buick LaCrosse.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Charger is quite roomy inside, considering the stylish exterior.”Car Connection

“Charger SXTs and R/Ts are stable at highway speeds, with linear, solid-feeling steering and a planted feel. They’re not nimble in quick direction changes, but they have fine balance and grip in turns. Brakes have ample stopping power, but some drivers might complain of long pedal travel.”Consumer Guide

“Chrysler has successfully reworked the Charger. The large, rear-wheel-drive sedan now handles responsively and has a steady, comfortable ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Dodge Charger sedan is the perfect car for the individual who loves performance driving, but must now cater to a family or business clientele.”KBB

“Composed ride and competent handling; abundant performance options; strong brakes; available all-wheel drive; easy-to-use 8.4-inch touchscreen interface. Tight rear seat headroom; aggressive personality won’t suit everybody.”Edmunds