The 2012 Dodge Challenger is ranked among the best affordable sports cars, with test drivers saying that this car can compete with others because of its aggressive styling, powerful engine and a spacious interior.

The Challenger comes with a lot of safety, technology, fuel efficient and handling features. Its lineup is offered with a renamed base trim, shift paddles for the 5 speed automatic transmission and a new audio system.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $25,195.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.1 gallons (72l)	MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 197.7 in. (502.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 116 in. (294.6 cm)
Height: 57.1 in. (145 cm)	Width: 75.7 in. (192.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 3834 lbs (1739 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.0 in. (12.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: V6 VVT DOHC	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 305 HP	Max RPM: 6350 RPM
Torque: 268 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SXT Plus	MSRP: $27,195; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Rallye Redline	MSRP: $28,945; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:R/T 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $29,995; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy
Option:R/T Plus 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $31,995; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy
Option:R/T Classic 5.7L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $33,995; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy
Option:SRT® 392 6.4L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $45,125; MPG: 14 city / 23 hwy
Option: SRT® 392 Yellow Jacket 6.4L V8 HEMI®	MSRP: $46,620; MPG: 14 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Challenger delivers an efficient and powerful engine. The base trim uses a 3.6 liter V6 engine that produces 305 HP, complimented by a 5 speed automatic transmission. The R/T trim is powered by a 372 HP, 5.7 liter V8 powertrain with a 5-speed automatic transmission. The SRT8 has a 6.4 liter HEMI V8, 470 HP, and 470 lb-ft of torque powertrain.

Several performance features and options are included in this coupe that help in improving cornering ability, steering responsiveness and balance. Some of these features include: Electronic stability control, a standard 4-wheel antilock disc brake system and a rear wheel drive with autonomous front and multi-link rear suspension.

With the available paddle shifters, you can grip the wheel while tour fingertips gains easy access to gears. The performance is further enhanced with the active valve exhaust system, with fuel saver technology for improved efficiency.

Exterior

The body is crafted and styled in a way that gives an athletic and muscular appearance. The hood is well sculpted, while the twin exhaust tips are chrome plated. Another catchy feature of the Challenger are the Xenon headlamps, while the rear spoiler and taillights adds elegance to the car.

The wheels are available in 18 inch alloy and 20 inches chrome trims. Other exterior features include: heated mirrors, auto-dimming rearview mirror and other Mopar upgrades.

Interior

The 2012 Challenger comes with 37.4 inches of rear headroom, and 36.2 inches legroom making your ride comfortable. When driving, you can easily grip your drink or set it down with your eyes staying glued to the road, thanks to the illuminated cup holders.

The U Connect technology in the Challenger is an internal hard disk which allows you to store up to 6,700 songs in your library. In addition, the UConnect Phone offers a sophisticated communication system which features: Bluetooth integration, voice activation and pairing of up to 7 Bluetooth-compatible phones. The Challenger comes with a spacious trunk, which is bigger than most sports cars such as Camaro and Mustang.

Safety & Reliability

The performance of this car is complimented by the safety features included. A strong safety cage body structure, which comes with the customary side guard door beams, guarantees the safety of the driver and passengers in the event of a collision.

Second, there are an array of airbags for the driver, passenger, side head, rear head and side air bags. Other safety features include: rain brake support, traction control, tire pressure monitoring, ready alert braking, and electronic stability control.

The reliability of this car is guaranteed by a 3-year or 36,000 mile warranty and a 5-year or 100,000 mile engine warranty.

Pros

• Stylish and attractive exterior
• Large trunk
• Comfort ride
• Spacious back seat

Cons

• Poor rear visibility.
• Difficult to access backseat.
• Bland interior styling

The challenger can accommodate five people, besting other competitors such as the Mustang and Camaro in seating capacity. This coupe is fuel efficient, making it an option for anyone who cares about the cost of fuel and enjoys the feel of muscle at the same time.

Competition

As one of the original members of muscle cars, the Challenger’s main competition has not changed, the Chevy Camaro (MSRP $23,280; 17 city / 28 hwy) and the Ford Mustang (MSRP $23,310; 19 city / 29 hwy) continue to give Dodge something to think about.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“A comfortable touring coupe most of the time, the retro-themed 2012 Dodge Challenger can turn in blistering musclecar performance when it’s got a HEMI.”Car Connection

“Steering feel is very accurate. Though not as agile as a Mustang, Challenger handles well given its sheer size and heft. Body lean in fast turns is well controlled, and the brakes provide sure-footed stopping control.”Consumer Guide

“The large retro-look Challenger is based on the Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger, and is a modern version of a 1970s muscle car. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re old enough to remember driving or craving to drive the original Challenger, the 2012 Dodge Challenger coupe will bring back a lot of memories. If you’re not old enough to remember the original, now’s your chance to share a little bit of history repeating. ”KBB

“The 2012 Dodge Challenger might look and move like a muscle car, but its ability to double as a grand touring coupe confirms its status as the most livable of the reborn muscle cars.”Edmunds

Wheelsandmore has officially unveiled its tuning kit, specially created for the 2012 WheelsAndMore McLaren model MP4-12C, called Toxique Evil.

A fitting name, considering the output of the vehicle has been increased to a massive 666 BHP and the torque has been increased to 472 ft lb.

If that wasn’t enough, Wheelsandmore are also reportedly currently working on a turbo upgrade and intercooler that will allow the McLaren MP4-12C to increase its BHP to 800!

Performance

The newly developed McLaren 3.8 liter Biturbo V8 engine wasn’t missing horsepower, as the original factory model boasts 597 BHP. Wheelsandmore were simply following the exclusive sales order to create something that was diabolical (and they certainly delivered when they decided to ramp up the BHP and torque of this supercar!).

Optimized control electronics, a reconfigured computer and handcrafted exhaust systems with valve flaps were also added to the McLaren MP4-12C supercar vehicles.

Chassis Modification

With the increase in engine output and modifications to the exhaust, the McLaren MP4-12C tuning kit also lowers the suspension by an inch and adds forged alloy wheels. New suspension springs are used to lower the entire vehicle’s suspension.

Lowering the complex hydraulic and electronic suspension system by just 25mm helps to control body roll and also improves the steering and handling of McLaren’s MP4-12C model.

Ultralight

The customized forged wheels are also special. Ultralight forged wheels have been individually constructed and additionally weight optimized. Continental Sport Contact 5P tires are added to ensure ideal levels of contact and traction on the road. The 325/25/21″ tires have been placed on the rear and 245/30/20″ tires are on the front.

Exterior

Completing the refinement of the McLaren MP4-12C’s exterior is the color matched Trim Line Design racing stripe, featuring the logo of the luxury German car tuner. The racing stripe is offset so it’s on the driver’s side and is the only other external modification that Wheelsandmore made to this supercar.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (72 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 177.5 in. (450.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.1 in. (267 cm)
Height: 47.2 in. (119.9 cm)	Width: 75.1 in. (190.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2945 lbs (1336 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (12.0 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 3799 cc
Horsepower: 666 HP	Torque: 472 lb-ft @ 3000-7000 rpm

The 2012 Chevy Volt is a combination of a purely electric and standard hybrid vehicle. Chevrolet offers the driver two sources of energy, which relieves the anxiety of having to recharge before you reach your destination. You may choose electric power, and also know that there is gas if necessary, to complete the drive.

This five-door hatchback is in the upscale, midsize car category, has the power for a sporty drive, and allows the driver to be in control of the type of power used, and when.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid	Base Price: $39,145.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 9.3 gallons (35 liters)	MPG: Hybrid motor:35 city / 40 hwy Electric motor:95 city / 93 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 177.1 in. (449.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268.4 cm)
Height: 56.6 in. (143.7 cm)	Width: 70.4 in. (178.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3781 lbs (1715 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 10.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Range Extender Hybrid	Displacement: 1.4 Liter
Battery: 120 Volt	Transmission: 1-Speed DirectDrive

Engine

The Volt’s powertrain is made up of a lithium-ion battery, along with a 1.4 liter, inline, 4 cylinder engine, and two electric motors. Upon depletion of the battery charge, the 83 horsepower gas-engine, generates the electric motors, sending the power to the wheels. The battery range is approximately 35 miles, and up to 375 miles on a tank of gas.

Performance

The fuel tank holds 9.3 gallons, and the Volt averages 95 miles per gallon in the city, and 93 on the highway with electricity. Using gas, the Volt’s fuel economy is 35 mpg in city driving, and 40 mpg highway driving.

The Volt has electronic fuel injection, single-ratio, automatic transmission featuring MacPherson strut front suspension, Compound Crank rear suspension, and front-wheel drive. Volt’s electric powertrain, with 149 horsepower, is quiet, and makes smooth transitions.

Exterior

The Chevrolet Volt is aerodynamically efficient, with its elongated, sculpted body. Other hybrids have a shortened or boxy-look, the Volt has a sportier, unique style. It has standard, bi-functional, halogen projector headlights, LED taillights, adjustable, heated external mirrors, 17-inch spoke wheels, and low-rolling resistance tires. The Volt exterior, offers colors of red, silver, blue, black, grey and white.

Interior

The interior is fully loaded with several trim package options. Standard features on the Volt include automatic climate control, keyless access, keyless ignition, remote starter system, and adjustable, 6-position, patterned cloth, front bucket seats.

The Color Touch 7-inch, LCD, Driver Information Center includes connectivity to Bluetooth, wireless technology, OnStar with RemoteLink, and SiriusXM radio. The premium trim package offers leather interior, and a center console including rear camera with parking assist, heated seats, voice-activated navigation, and Bose speakers.

Safety & Reliability

The Volt comes equipped with eight air bags, 4-wheel anti-brake system (ABS), StabiliTrak with Electronic Stability Control System, daytime running headlights, three-point safety belts, tire pressure monitoring system, OnStar, and even horn-chirp alert for pedestrians. Chevrolet offers a 5-year or 100,000 mile with roadside assist warranty, an 8-year or 100,000 mile battery warranty, and a 3-year rust warranty for the 2012 Volt.

Comparison

In comparison with other cars in this category, the Toyota Prius v (MSRP $26,550; 44 city / 40 hwy) is less expensive, with a 1.8 liter engine, gets 44 mpg city driving, and there is more headroom for the driver and passengers. The Prius does not have daytime-running headlights, but has comparable interior standard features. The Lexus HS 250h (MSRP $37,030; 35 city / 34 hwy), and Nissan LEAF (MSRP $37,250) are both less expensive, but the Lexus warranty only covers 50,000 miles.

The Volt only seats four, and has a small trunk space, but it does have a high-tech powertrain, enabling better handling than most hybrids. The Volt had the highest overall score for the crash tests, from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also.

It is fun to drive, has plenty of power, is equipped for safety and comfort, and is very practical. The driver has the choice of power used, and the 2012 Chevrolet Volt not only saves money, but also saves the planet.

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

“The quiet cabin, excellent build quality, and pioneering powertrain make the 2012 Chevy Volt a welcoming and very practical vehicle that just happens to plug in to the wall to get energy.”Car Connection

“Steering effort is consistently light, with a fairly precise but artificial feel. Body lean is well controlled, even during fast cornering. Braking feel is fine, though there’s a slight “let up” just before the car comes to a stop, requiring just a bit of added brake-pedal pressure…”Consumer Guide

“If you’re worried a pure electric car won’t be able to satisfy your distance requirements before needing to be recharged, the 2012 Chevrolet Volt hybrid electric sedan will put your worries to rest.”KBB

“The 2012 Chevy Volt plug-in hybrid is arguably the most fuel-efficient car on the market, but it’s pricey for what you get.”Edmunds

The 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is a crew-cab pickup that has a lot of room for cargo as well as passengers. It has a large design that is both functional and sleek. There are three different types of models available. These include the: LS, LT and the LTZ.

The LS is the base model, but it still comes with a lot of features that make it stand out from similar models of vehicles. The Nissan Titan and Ram 2500 are similar, but this tends to be a more popular type of vehicle for buyers.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV Truck	Base Price: $36,800.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117l)	MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 221.3 in. (562.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 130 in. (330.2 cm)
Height: 76.6 in. (194.5 cm)	Width: 79.1 in. (200.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 5840 lbs (2649 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.1 in. (23.1 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 45.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: Vortec V8 OHV FlexFuel	Displacement: 5.3 Liter
Horsepower: 320 HP	Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 8100 lbs (3674 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LS 4WD	MSRP: $39,850; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LT 2WD	MSRP: $40,195; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LT 4WD	MSRP: $43,245; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LTZ 2WD	MSRP: $47,000; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:LTZ 4WD	MSRP: $50,305; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Engine

The Avalanche LS has a 5.3 L V8 FFV 6-speed automatic engine with a 5.3 ft bed on the back. It has overhead valves, variable valve timing and 16 valves total. It has a torque that produces 335 ft/lb @ 4000 RPM.

The engine type is flex-fuel and has turning radius of 43 feet. It also has short and long arm front suspension along with a bar for stabilization in the front and back.

Performance

This truck gets 15 mpg in the city and 21 on the highway. The range in miles is 465 in the city and 651 on the highway. The fuel tank capacity is 31 gallons and it takes unleaded fuel. The drive type is rear wheel drive with 6-speed shift-able automatic for more control while driving.

Exterior

The wheels are 17×7.5″ alloy with a steel spare wheel in the back. They are all-season P265/70R, which means no need to switch tires throughout the year. There are wipers on the back as well as a rear defogger for safer driving during unfriendly weather conditions. In addition to this, there is privacy glass and a roof rack on the top of the truck. The bumpers are painted and there is a hard bed truck cover included.

Interior

The driver and passenger seats are powered and can be moved in six different ways. They are covered with premium cloth and bucketed, so they are comfortable to sit in. The rear seats feature a folding storage center, rear ventilation ducts and a split-folding rear seatback. The mirrors in the car are powered and lighted. It also has power windows and door locks.

Reading lights and illuminated vanities are located inside the cabin. There is also a clock, trip tracker, warning for low gas and compass. Entertainment options include: CD player, USB connection, satellite radio and more.

Safety & Reliability

A four wheel ABS comes included as does front and back disc locks with ventilation. There are airbags throughout the truck and sensors to determine when they should go off. There are also child safety locks in the back along with child seat anchors. Other safety features include: engine immobilizer, daytime running lights, headrests and stability control.

Pros

• Numerous features that come standard.
• High safety scores.
• Roomy interior.

Cons

• Can be hard to see through back while driving.
• More expensive than similar models.
• One engine option available.

This is a truck suitable for all types of drivers. It has more options for seating when more people need to be transported. The Avalanche gets good gas mileage, so it’s a great choice for anyone who needs a truck but wants to save on gas.

Competition

Only the Toyota Tundra Crewmax (MSRP $30,335; 15 city / 20 hwy) and the Ford F-150 Supercrew (MSRP $33,285; 17 city / 23 hwy) have been compared to the Avalanche. These are worth looking at. The Avalanche is the higher priced of the three with the F150 providing with just a little better gas mileage. In the end, its your choice.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The Avalanche is the only truck on earth that can go from six-seat SUV to full-size pickup–though it loses a closed, two-row cabin in the process.”Car Connection

“The steering has good feel, though effort is somewhat high during low-speed maneuvers. The brakes are responsive, with a short, firm pedal stroke. Avalanche, a long truck with a sizable turning radius, is a challenge to park in tight spaces.”Consumer Guide

“The Avalanche has a compliant ride and a quiet cabin.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Despite its size and obvious pickup-truck chassis, the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche delivers an impressive level of refinement in areas of both ride and handling.”KBB

“Thanks to its practical midgate configuration, the 2012 Chevrolet Avalanche is an ideal crew-cab pickup for carrying a combination of passengers and cargo.”Edmunds

The 2012 Kia Soul is one of the top choices in its class. This is definitely because of its unique look, more capable and fuel efficient engines, spacious cabin, generous features and lengthy warranty.

The new Soul does not seem to have any fault, and it could be the perfect choice for car shoppers who want to get the best value for their money.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback Wagon	Base Price: $13,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.7 gallons (48 liters)	MPG: 27 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 162.2 in. (412 cm)	Wheel Base: 100.4 in. (255 cm)
Height: 63.4 in. (161 cm)	Width: 70.4 in. (178.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2615 lbs (1186 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 23.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 138 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:+	MSRP: $16,300; MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy
Option:!	MSRP: $19,600; MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy

Engine

There are two engines available for the 2012 Soul. First is the 4 cylinder 1.6 liter engine that delivers 122 horsepower and 115 lbs/ft of torque. The other, which we and most of the test drivers prefer, is the 4-cylinder 2.0 liter engine that brings 142 horsepower and 137 lbs/ft of torque.

Prospective owners can choose between 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions. The Exclaim, the top-of-the-line trim, is only available in automatic transmission.

Performance

As the statistics show, the Soul is definitely capable in the city and on the highway. The transmissions are smooth making it easier for drivers to merge and pass. It is not the most fun model to drive but it definitely answers your needs when you are driving around town.

The sensitive steering will give you a good feel of the road and the brakes are smooth and responsive. Its body size provides a tight turn radius which makes it nimble during turns.

Exterior

The exterior of the Kia Soul does not seem to go along with the trends when it comes to looks. The Soul has no organic curves and fine lines. Its frame is quite geometrical that makes it look like a box on wheels. There is nothing detrimental about not following the trend though. In fact, its unique look is one of the reasons that Soul owners love.

Interior

The most noticeable trait in the Soul cabin is its spaciousness. Full grown adults have enough legroom even when they are seated in the back seat. There is adequate headroom too. The front visibility is excellent and the rear visibility is straightforward.

The soul exudes a youthful spirit through its generous interior features such as the satellite radio, control mounted steering wheel, Bluetooth connectivity and cruise controls.

Safety

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gives the Kia Soul an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars for receiving 5 stars in side crash tests and 4 stars for rollover risk and frontal crash tests. On the other hand, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gives the Kia Soul the “Top Safety Pick” rating for scoring “good” in all of their crash tests.

Reliability

The Soul comes with the 5-year standard warranty, a powertrain warranty that lasts for 10 years, a 5-year corrosion warranty and a 24 hour roadside assistance that lasts for 5 years. The Kia Soul is another vehicle that is covered by the manufacturer’s competitive warranty.

Pros

The 2012 Soul has plenty of features that young car owners will enjoy. It has good looks too. But most importantly, it has adequate power for city and highway driving, and a reasonable fuel economy rating. The power is balanced by its good handling. The cabin is spacious and comfortable. It is affordable and has a long and competitive warranty.

Cons

The only complaint that a car owner will have is the use of cheap plastics for the interior and little cargo space.

With the value that you can get for its price, the 2012 Kia Soul is definitely one of the better choices in the arena of affordable small MPVs.

The Kia Soul has been compared to the Nissan Cube (MSRP $14,980; 25 city / 30 hwy) and Scion’s XB (MSRP $16,300; 22 city / 28 hwy) and XD (MSRP $15,345; 27 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“In a class of quirky, boxlike cars, the Kia Soul stands out–mostly, because the quirks work in its favor, and give it a funky flair that’s pretty absent in the Scion xB, Nissan Cube, and the like.”Car Connection

“Soul is reasonably nimble, with some noticeable body lean in turns. Accurate steering provides good road feel at speed and light effort in low-speed close-quarters maneuvering. The brakes are smooth and strong.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Soul got more powerful engines, six-speed gearboxes, and improved fuel economy. Cabin access is easy, with abundant head room and a spacious rear seat.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“For 2012, the Kia Soul receives a minor facelift, new drivetrains and a host of new interior features. The Soul Sport trim level has been discontinued.”KBB

“The 2012 Kia Soul brings hipster styling and a fun-to-drive nature to the realm of the practical hatchback.”Edmunds