For anyone that wished for an updated version of the Maserati GT look no further than the 2012 Maserati GranTurismo Sport.

This model replaces the S series and has quite a few new features that improve on the stylish design and performance that automotive connoisseurs have come to expect from Maserati. It will no doubt leave a lasting impression on anyone who who sets their eyes on this Gran Turismo Sport.

Performance

Right off the bat you will experience more power than previous models due to an additional 24 horsepower pouring out of the 4.7 Liter engine for a phenomenal total of 460 HP.

For a model that is considered the mid range option in the GT line, you are receiving the strongest engine they currently have available making this model a must have for those that may not be able to afford the MC.

Exterior

The already stylish and eloquent exterior has been slightly modified in an effort to capture the attention of those that may not have enjoyed the classic look of the GT.

The lights are now tinted for a smoky appearance on the front and rear of the vehicle and LED’s are now visible in the eyes of this beast for an eye-catching visual at night.

The front end now has air intakes on each side of the grill for that unique appearance on the newly designed front fascia that is more aggressive than years past.

Interior

The interior has minor changes, such as the steering wheel and seating but overall the changes are minimal. This model has needed an overhaul in years and despite the base being the same; it is enough of a movement in the right direction to satisfy enthusiasts.

The 2012 Maserati GranTurismo Sport is a vast improvement over its predecessors making this a collectible that ushers in a new era of Maserati excellence.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.7 gallons (86 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 15.1 combined

Dimensions

Length: 192.1 in. (488.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.8 in. (294.2 cm)
Height: 53.2 in. (135.3 cm)	Width: 75.3 in. (191.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3924 lbs (1780 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: V8	Displacement: 4.7 Liter
Horsepower: 460 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 384 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed ZF Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 186 mph (300 km/h)

The 2012 Porsche Carrera 991 CLR 9 S by Lumma Design is one of several 911 (991) Porsche Carrera modified versions displayed in Geneva’s Auto Show in Switzerland this year.

Other companies like RUF, Gembella, SpeedArt and others exhibited their redesigned versions of the popular Porsche Carrera, but Lumma Design’s model especially impressed most people mainly due to its subtle changes to the look of the car, while maintaining Porsche’s integrity.

Exterior

When Lumma Design, a company from Winterlingen, Germany, approached the task of redesigning a 911 Porsche Carrera, they decided to focus primarily on changing the look and style of the car. The greatest improvement to the Porsche’s driving performance came from Lumma Design’s enhancement of the car’s aerodynamics with unique CLR components.

The three part spoiler lip added to the rear of the 2012 Porsche Carrera 991 CLR 9 S by Lumma Design is the key to increasing the down force on the rear axle of the car. Just this one change boosts the handling significantly at higher speeds, giving the car’s overall performance an extra edge.

Another added touch, among others, on the exterior of the 2012 Porsche Carrera 991 CLR 9 S by Lumma Design is new ultra-light alloyed rims on the wheels, available in the colors silver and black, that weigh no more than 25 pounds in their biggest size.

Interior

The interior of the 2012 Porsche Carrera 991 CLR 9 S by Lumma Design looks completely new and sportier, redone in leather and Alcantara material with the colors red and black. Alcantara has been primarily used for driver’s seats of Formula One cars due to its flame retardant properties, and with a texture similar to suede, it adds a very stylish touch to the overall interior.

The steering wheel is made more enjoyable for the driver with its new ergonomic design and black Alcantara material covering for extra grip. The aluminum driving pedals are now equipped with rubber studs so that they are extra slip-resistant.

All in all, the 2012 Porsche Carrera 991 CLR 9 S by Lumma Design is a very tasteful rendition of a favorite Porsche.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 176.8 in. (449 cm)	Wheel Base: 96.4 in. (244.8 cm)
Height: 51.3 in. (130 cm)	Width: 71.1 in. (180.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 4.76 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 3.4 Liter Rear 6 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 12.5: 1
Horsepower: 350 HP	Max RPM: 7400 RPM
Torque: 287 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed PDK

In the upscale, midsize car category, the 2012 Buick Regal is a great value. The Regal offers performance and comfort at a reasonable price, that other competitors do not. The Regal is offered in two variants, the Regal eAssist, and the Buick Regal GS, and all have received good safety ratings overall.

The Regal has a very comfortable, high-quality interior which is roomy and loaded with standard features. With its European-style exterior that is sleekly sculpted, it is anything but a boring-looking sedan.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $27,055.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68L)	MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.2 in. (483.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.8 in. (273.8 cm)
Height: 58.4 in. (148.3 cm)	Width: 73.1 in. (185.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3600 lbs (1633 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: ECOTEC® 4-cylinder	Displacement: 2.4 Liter
Horsepower: 182 HP	Max RPM: 6700 RPM
Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4900 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Premium 1	MSRP: $28,490; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:Premium 2	MSRP: $29,900; MPG: 19 city / 31 hwy
Option:Premium 1 Turbo 2.0L	MSRP: $30,260; MPG: 18 city / 29 hwy
Option:Premium 2 Turbo 2.0L	MSRP: $31,670; MPG: 18 city / 29 hwy
Option:Premium 3 Turbo 2.0L	MSRP: $32,920; MPG: 18 city / 29 hwy
Option:GS 2.0L M/T	MSRP: $34,835; MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy

Engine Performance

The 2012 Regal base model offers a 2.4 liter, ECOTEC, 4-cylinder, gas engine. The engine has 182 horsepower at 6700 rpm, and while it is not a speed machine, it provides 20 mpg in the city, and 32 mpg on the highway.

It has a four-link independent rear suspension, and 6-speed, electronically-controlled automatic transmission featuring Driver Shift Control. The Regal is front-wheel drive, and a 4-wheel, anti-lock disc brake system. These features in combination provide precise and agile handling, and retain the Buick motto of building to perform.

Exterior

The exterior has beautiful, sweeping lines, with the signature Buick waterfall grill in front. Ample window room is available, so vision is enhanced. It has complimentary halogen composite headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels. It has a very sleek, European look, and is available in various colors.

The standard colors to choose from are Quicksilver, Gold Mist, Blue, Summit White, Black Onyx, and Smokey Gray. Color upgrades are being added such as Crystal Red, Carbon Black, and White Diamond.

Interior

Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system is standard in all Regal models. It includes a 7-speaker audio system, USB port, Bluetooth capability, SiriusXM Satellite Radio, OnStar, heated driver and front-passenger seats, eight-way power driver-seat adjuster, four-way lumbar support driver-seat adjuster, and steering-wheel mounted controls.

The Regal seats five comfortably and the cabin is quiet and cool, with the air-conditioning provided.

The Regal has a low instrument panel, with its gauges highlighted by easy to read LED lights. The center stack of controls is framed by high-quality trim, and the interior trim colors are satin metallic, piano-black, plastic, or dark wood. The interior color choices of classy cashmere and ebony are provided for the seating and door panels.

Safety

The Regal is equipped with StabiliTrak, providing optimal directional control which helps the car to hug the road. The four-wheel anti-lock brake system and patented pedal-release system are also featured on the Regal. The 2012 Regal was a top safety choice for 2012, by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) because of these features, and the side-impact protection beams, double pre-tensioned front safety belts, and six air bags, offering the latest in technology, with two-stage inflation.

Reliability

The Regal offers a four-year or 50,000-mile basic warranty, or a five-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Roadside assistance and courtesy transportation are offered for the duration of the warranty. Buick is certain of the car’s reliability, due to its high engineering standards. They count on the Regal being as reliable as the owner does.

Competition

Other vehicles that the Regal may be compared to include the Acura TL (MSRP $35,705; 20 city / 29 hwy), the Infiniti G25 (MSRP $33,100; 20 city / 29 hwy), and the Volkswagen CC (MSRP $28,515; 21 city / 31 hwy). The lower price, for premium features is a great selling point for the Regal.

The Hyundai Sonata manual model (MSRP $19,795; 24 city / 35 hwy) and the Acura TSX (MSRP $30,010; 22 city / 31 hwy) may provide equal standard features and fuel economy, but for the elegant look, the American-made Regal is still superior.

The 2012 Regal is a midsize, upscale car for those depending on performance, better fuel economy, interior comfort and quiet, and a new, sleeker look.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Buick Regal has a little less interior space than plainer family sedans, but it’s on par with its premium competition.”Car Connection

“Nimble and balanced in quick direction changes. The steering is direct but smooth, with good feedback. The brakes provide good stopping control. Interactive Drive Control System’s Sport mode delivers quicker moves.”Consumer Guide

“The Regal is a well-honed sports sedan with a taut and steady ride, sporty handling, and quick, direct steering. Wind noise is well suppressed.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’ve grown tired of the generic-looking mid-size “one size fits all” crowd, and you think it might be time to give a domestic manufacturer another chance, the 2012 Buick Regal will definitely help convince you that just because a car has four doors doesn’t mean it has to be boring.”KBB

“After a somewhat disappointing debut last year, the 2012 Buick Regal receives some much-needed improvements. But unless you spring for the GS version, it’s still quite a ways off from its lofty sport sedan positioning.”Edmunds

The 2012 Kia Forte earned a high ranking among similar sized and priced vehicles.

The Forte has many standard features, making it ideal for those seeking a small, affordable car.

The front wheel drive vehicle offers consumers a small, fuel-efficient car with several option packages.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $15,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 gallons (51 liters)	MPG: 25 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 178.3 in. (452.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm)
Height: 57.5 in. (146 cm)	Width: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2729 lbs (1238 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (14.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L Inline 4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 156 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Forte Koup	MSRP: $17,200; MPG: 24 city / 33 hwy
Option:Hatchback	MSRP: $18,100; MPG: 26 city / 36 hwy
Option:EX 2.0L AT	MSRP: $17,600; MPG: 26 city / 36 hwy
Option:SX 2.4L AT	MSRP: $19,100; MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy

Engine & Performance

The downside of the Kia Forte is its engine size and performance. While adequate, the Forte does not have a zippy or powerful engine. However, excellent fuel economy may offset the lack of power for many buyers. The Forte is available in both manual and automatic transmissions. The four-cylinder engine performs efficiently and provides good fuel economy but does not offer significant power.

The Forte handles well and features speed-sensitive steering and a comfortable suspension, making it easy for drivers to handle on a variety of roads. The combination of easy handling and good fuel economy make it ideal for commuters.

Exterior

The Kia Forte comes in three different body styles. Available in sedan, hatchback or coupe, the Forte offers buyers the choice of body style best suited to their needs and preferences. Base model color choices are limited, although additional colors are available with some of the enhanced trim packages.

The Forte also has several different trim packages for each body style, allowing buyers to select a combination of features. Options include a rear spoiler, upgraded wheel covers or wheels and upgraded tires.

Interior

The interior of the Forte includes a passenger compartment sized to seat four comfortably and plenty of cargo space. Passengers have adequate head and leg room, although long trips may be uncomfortable for adult passengers in the back seat.

Materials used are high quality and driver controls are ergonomically designed and comfortable to use. Additional standard features include satellite radio, Bluetooth and a USB port for music players or other electronic devices. You can also add on extra features such as a sunroof, navigation system, lighted vanity mirrors, reading lamps and steering wheel controls. Additional upgrades include material options such as leather or premium synthetic seats.

Safety

Multiple safety features come standard on the Forte, including air bags, anti-lock brakes, brake assist, child safety locks, traction control and an emergency trunk release. Additional safety features available include integrated turn signal mirrors and upgraded braking systems. The 2012 Forte scored well in crash tests and received a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Reliability

When it comes to reliability, the 2012 Kia Forte stacks up well against competitors. Kia offers one of the longest and most comprehensive warranties available, including a five-year/60,000 mile 24 hour roadside assistance program.

The vehicle itself receives expected reliability scores and the warranty provides assurance the manufacturer backs the construction and reliability of the vehicle.

For buyers interested in a fuel-efficient and affordable new car, the 2012 Kia Forte offers many benefits. While the engine performance may be lacking in comparison with other similarly sized vehicles, the relatively low cost and fuel efficiency offsets the limitations of the engine.

The Forte offers numerous standard features unusual in small, affordable cars, making it an ideal choice for consumers wishing to maximize purchasing power.

Competition

Among the competitors of the Forte are the Toyota Corolla(MSRP $16,130; 27 city / 34 hwy), Honda Civic(MSRP $15,955; 28 city / 36 hwy), and the Ford Focus (MSRP $17,500; 26 city / 36 hwy).

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Kia Forte remains one of the better picks for performance in a rather crowded class of compact sedans, although with a host of other models introduced over the past model year, the competition is a lot tighter.”Car Connection

“The Forte is a competitive small car but lacks refinement. Handling is responsive but the ride is stiff.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“On the open road, the 2012 Kia Forte is the master of its domain – so long as the road to that domain remains straight and level.”KBB

“The 2012 Kia Forte is a bit outclassed by newer competitors, but it still has a lot to offer in terms of value and style.”Edmunds

The 2012 Lumma Design BMW CLR 600 GT is a modified BMW 650i with added aerodynamic features, an increase in BHP and GTB Monoblock 20 inch wheels.

This is the sixth Cabriolet created by Lumma Design and it is certainly not set to disappoint.

Aerodynamic Details

A great attention to detail has created a subtle aerodynamic package that includes a front spoiler complete with daytime driving LED lights, side skirts and a new rear diffuser.

The modifications made by Lumma Design give the Cabriolet a definite sporty appearance underpinned by a power boost plus improved dynamics.

Performance

Lumma Design has developed a modified version of the BMW TwinTurbo 8 cylinder engine electronics that mobilizes the full potential of the model’s V8 Powertrain. Instead of producing 408 BHP, the 650i (renamed CLR 600 GT) now produces an impressive 490 BHP.

The maximum torque has increased from 442.5 ft-lbs to 531 ft-lbs and the top speed now goes up to 160 MPH. With the introduction of a flow optimized muffler and 4 tailpipes, made from stainless steel and 90mm in diameter, a true ‘sports sound’ adds to the enhanced V8 engine noise.

Rims & Wheels

The wheel housings have been embellished with GTB Monoblock alloy rims and Vredestein Ultra High Performance tires. Lowered by 20mm, the wheels give the BMW CLR 600 GT an even sportier look due to their racing spokes design and high quality black finish. The dark rims also contrast well with the brake calipers that are painted yellow.

Interior

The interior of the BMW CLR 600 GT has also been modified to match the sportier and more powerful exterior. Only the highest quality materials and finest traditional handcrafted upholstery have been used to enhance the interior design.

In the BMW CLR 600 GT, Lumma Design has not only improved the usual features(seats, door panels, steering wheel), but the 650i upgrade also features velour mats in the foot-wells and trunk, foot rests, interior trims in embossed leather and a set of aluminum pedals.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.4 gallons (70 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 192.6 in. (489.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.4 in. (285.5 cm)
Height: 53.7 in. (136.5 cm)	Width: 74.5 in. (189.4 cm)

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 4.4 Liter
Horsepower: 490 HP	Torque: 531 lb-ft
0-60 mph: NA	Maximum Speed: 160 mph (257 km/h)