When it comes affordable midsize cars, the 2012 Nissan Altima proves that it is one of the better choices.

There are definitely other cars in its class that offer greater value for your money.

Nevertheless, the new Altima provides adequate performance and comfort for your daily driving needs.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $20,550.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75L)	MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.7 in. (484.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.6 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm)	Width: 70.7 in. (179.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3180 lbs (1442 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16 Valve 4-Cylinder DOHC	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 175 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 180 lb-ft @ 3900 rpm	Transmission: CVT Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2.5S	MSRP: $22,710; MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy
Option:2.5S Anniversary Pkg	MSRP: $23,660; MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy
Option:2.5SL Package	MSRP: $26,750; MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy
Option:3.5SR V6	MSRP: $25,570; MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy

Engine

Two engines are available for the 2012 Nissan Altima. They are the 4-cylinder 2.5 engine and the V6 3.5 liter engine. We prefer the latter because it delivers 270 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. All models are only available with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

What is good about the CVT is that it can use unlimited gear ratios to drive the car forward, consuming the least amount of fuel possible. Bringing power in one consistent line, the CVT in the Altima is one of the most advanced. The V6 engine consumes 27 mpg for highway and 20 mpg for city driving.

Performance

Having driven the V6 3.5 liter model, we can definitely say that the Altima performs well. It can definitely get you where you want to go every day. Other test drivers claim that it is even more fun to drive than the Hyundai Sonata (MSRP $20,795; 24 city / 35 hwy) and Toyota Camry (MSRP $22,055; 25 city / 35 hwy).

The car accelerates well and is efficient in passing, thanks to its advanced CVT. And although it is not the fastest or the sportiest in its class, it surely is one of the most comfortable cars to drive. It is also worth mentioning that the V6 comes with a sport tuned suspension which makes the driving experience better.

Exterior

The looks of the new Altima seem to be a little dated, although you can still see the aggressiveness in it. Perhaps if the design was introduced years ago, it can be described as fresh. Nissan can definitely improve this aspect in its next editions of the Altima.

Interior

The overall interior of the new Altima is satisfactory. It may not provide lots of space for tall drivers but it has some surprises for the technology oriented motorists. The central console has many features that car shoppers are looking for.

Like any other car, interior upgrades come with a price. There is not much to tell about the seat styling because it is very basic. But if you like simplicity, you will certainly like seat design.

There is adequate space for the driver and the front passenger but taller rear passengers may have little legroom and headroom. Children will not have problems with the rear seats but full grown adults may. The Altima is indeed a family sedan.

Safety

The new Altima has already been tested by the federal government and receives an overall score of 4 out of 5. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rates the Altima “good” in front crash tests and side crash tests. In roof strength and rollover tests, the IIHS gives “acceptable” to the Altima.

The new Altima comes with standard safety features such as traction control, pressure monitoring system, and airbags.

Reliability

The 2012 Altima comes with the Nissan standard 3-year warranty and a 5-year powertrain warranty.

Pros

We give credit to Nissan for putting a lot of thought in providing a capable chassis, responsive steering, quiet ride, and numerous electronic features. It is good to know that the Altima is available in coupe, too.

Cons

The rear seat of the Altima is not ideal for full grown adults.

The 2012 Nissan Altima has the competitive edge and may also be compared to the Chevrolet Malibu (MSRP $22,110; 22 city / 33 hwy).

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Nissan Altima isn’t as roomy as the newest mid-offerings, but as a coupe or as a sedan, it’s one of the best-looking and most sporty mid-sizers.”Car Connection

“Sedans have nicely damped body motions and direct steering. The brakes offer good stopping control, though one test model suffered from touchy pedal action. Coupes have sharper moves all around but are not as nimble as you might expect.”Consumer Guide

“The Altima is one of our top-scoring family sedans.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The key to the 2012 Nissan Altima Sedan’s longevity is a rigid body structure that helps boost the car’s sporty driving characteristics.”KBB

“Responsive steering; capable chassis; quiet ride; many available electronic features; available coupe body style. Smaller backseat than rivals; complex options structure.”Edmunds

The 2012 Kia Rio is popular in the small car market. Compared to its previous model, the new Rio has been re-designed. It is more attractive, more fuel efficient and has better performance.

The quality of interior materials is better than those in other cars in its class. Its layout and design is compared to the Volkswagen Golf, and that is quite a compliment for this affordable sub-compact.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $13,400.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.4 gallons (43 liters)	MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 171.9 in. (436.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.2 in. (257 cm)
Height: 57.3 in. (145.5 cm)	Width: 67.7 in. (171.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 2410 lbs (1093 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (13.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.6L I4 DOHC (CVVT)	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 138 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Hatchback	MSRP: $13,600; MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy
Option:EX	MSRP: $16,300; MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy
Option:SX	MSRP: $17,500; MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy

Performance

One of the best things about the new Rio is its smooth transmission that complements its power. Although the Rio is not sporty, it definitely brings what you need when you are driving around the city.

The Rio neither steers too wide nor too narrow, thanks to its electric power steering. Although its handling is not as precise as the handling for Honda Fit and Mazda 2, it still is spot on. The brakes are also responsive, providing additional nimbleness to the car.

Engine

There is only one engine available for the 2012 Kia Rio, the 4 cylinder 1.6 liter engine. It delivers 138 horsepower and 123 lbs/ft of torque. Prospective owners can choose between the 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmission.

By the specifications alone, it is easy to see that the Kia Rio is indeed one of the sprightliest sub-compact cars in the market today.

Exterior

The front headlights, with their organic shape and fine details, look sharp. The front grille is narrow which makes the front layout look sleek. The 15″ steel rims bring balance to the car and the subtle lines and curves make it look very neat. We appreciate the Rio for not trying to look too sporty and being true to its style.

Interior

Give Kia credit for improving the quality of the seats, the standard features, and the added cabin space. All of these were not apparent with its previous model. There is plenty of headroom and legroom inside the car. You won’t have any complaints unless you are extra tall. The center console has user-friendly controls that are clearly marked. It has satellite radio, buttons mounted to the steering wheel, and a USB port.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety is yet to test the 2012 Rio. The National Traffic Safety Administration, on the other hand, gives the Kia Rio an overall score of 4 out of 5 stars.

In rear crash tests, it scored 5 out of 5 stars, and in front and side crash tests it earned 4 out of 5 stars. The new Rio has more safety features than its previous models, another thing that we like about it.

Reliability

The new Rio comes with the standard 5-year warranty, 10-year powertrain warranty, 5-year corrosion warranty and 5-year 24 hour road assistance. These warranties are the longest warranties provided in its class.

Pros

The new Kia Rio performs adequately and looks good enough for young car owners and car owners who have a young and small family. Its interiors have better quality than the interiors of other cars in its class and it has more standard features for an affordable price. It has plenty of safety features as well as space for adults with average height. It also has good fuel economy.

Cons

Because it has a small engine, it can get noisy at times when you need to pass. Extra tall passengers and drivers may find inadequate legroom.

With all the features that it offers for its price, the 2012 Kia Rio is definitely a better choice for car shoppers.

Other small vehicles that may be compared to the Rio are the Chevrolet Sonic (MSRP $13,865; 26 city / 35 hwy), Nissan Versa (MSRP $10,990; 27 city / 36 hwy), and the Ford Fiesta (MSRP $13,200; 29 city / 37 hwy).

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“On the economy-car scale, it’s quick and light to the touch, but the Rio’s performance by absolute standards is just average.”Car Connection

“The 2012 Kia Rio and Rio 5-door hatchback receive a redesign, with their own take on Kia’s signature grille; highly sculpted, sloping shoulder lines and wedge-shaped exteriors; and the more aggressive look of other Kia models such as the Optima and Sportage.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“It’s a little disconcerting at first but, once we got used to the sound of the car starting after every stop, we took comfort in the added fuel savings that the feature entails.”KBB

“Stylish design inside and out; plenty of standard and optional features; long warranty coverage; feels bigger than it is. Engine can get noisy; struggles to meet EPA fuel economy estimates in the real world.”Edmunds

The 2012 Bentley Mulsanne Executive Interior, found on Bentley’s flagship line of ultra-luxury vehicles, was designed with the needs of two divergent populations in mind.

Given the “Theatre” and “iPad” designation respectively, each is designed with luxury, comfort, and flawless design in mind.

Exquisite Interior

Both concepts come with similar design options such as a customized Tibaldi fountain pen and a blended wood veneer that epitomizes yachting.

But the Theatre specification is geared towards a consumer market who is seeking a peaceful place to unwind on the way home from work, whereas the iPad specification is for those who take their work on the go.

The Theatre interior has customized crystal champagne flutes along with two bottles of champagne kept cool in an easily accessible bottle chiller, to take the edge off the evening commute.

Extra Features

In terms of electronic amenities, there is a centrally mounted, 15.6-inch high-def LED screen which is suited for both DVD and Television viewing, along with a customized lighting option to ensure optimal illumination.

In addition to the centralized screen, each rear-seat occupant can enjoy a separate eight-inch screen with Bluetooth-linked headphones, mounted on the front headrests.

Work on the Go

For those for whose commute home is “business as usual”, the iPad specification on the 2012 Bentley Mulsanne Executive interior has many enviable features. Each rear-seat passenger has an electronically controlled table covered in a soft hyde writing surface, with a fully functional embedded iPad equipped with a removable wireless keyboard.

Business people can also take advantage of the Apple Mac computer mounted in the trunk, with the drop-down LED screen serving as the display. With the twin USB ports located in the central console, it is possible to upload films, music and data for use during the journey.

Both the central screen of the Theatre interior and the writing tables of the iPad interior are designed with stowing capacities, ensuring that the 2012 Bentley Mulsanne Executive interior remains as functional as possible.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.3 gallons (96 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 11 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 219.5 in. (557.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 128.5 in. (326.6 cm)
Height: 59.8 in. (152.1 cm)	Width: 75.8 in. (192.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 5976 lbs (2711 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: Twin Turbo V8	Displacement: 6752 cc
Horsepower: 505 HP	Max RPM: 4200 RPM
Torque: 752 lb-ft @ 1750 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds	Maximum Speed: 184 mph (296 km/h)

After two months, Vilner has finally completed the design for the 2012 Vilner Audi A3 ESET. The next step for the interior experts is to launch the Audi A3 aftermarket package in Bulgaria, particularly at the ESET World Software Conference.

ESET corporate colors remain in the car. The modified bumpers were removed and the details were enhanced. As a result, you get a car that can be associated with ESET yet has the Audi A3 distinction.

Engine

Since the Vilner Audi A3 ESET has drawn inspiration from the Audi A3; we can expect the car to have the same powertrain. That would be the turbocharged 2 liter engine that delivers 200 horsepower and 207 lbs/ft of torque. The drivetrain can be a manual transmission or a dual-clutch automatic gearbox, both having six speeds.

Performance

The Audi A3 provides adequate horsepower, nimble handling and efficient braking. Since the Audi A3 ESET is closely similar to this car model, you can expect almost the same performance. These characteristics make the Audi A3 ESET an ideal company vehicle.

Exterior

The 2012 Vilner Audi features new headlights, 17 inch MAK alloy wheels and a roof spoiler. It has pearl-white paint blue-gray technicalities. It has the colors turquoise and red for details and accents. The wheels bear the same colors as well. In the front door, you will see the ESET logo. These exterior traits give the car a unique personality.

Interior

If it’s designed by Vilner, you cannot expect less. The car interiors have dark colors for the primary shade. The materials used for the seats are high-quality Alcantara and Nappa.

The dashboard, which is also covered with Nappa and Alcantara has turquoise accent too. The hand-crafted steering wheel is more ergonomic than ever. But that is not all, because the 2012 Vilner Audi A3 ESET is equipped with high-tech console features which make it perfect for business use.

Pros

The Vilner Audi performs as good as the Audi A3. It has adequate power, excellent handling, responsive brakes and better fuel efficiency. It has high-tech controls which make it ideal for business and it has distinctive looks.

Cons

The new Vilner Audi is designed for business purposes. Therefore, you cannot expect it to deliver your domestic requirements. The technology used in its console is advanced too, which could require a certain amount of time before you get used to it.

The 2012 Vilner Audi can serve the company well. If you want to provide automobiles for your staff, you can draw inspiration from the 2012 Vilner Audi A3 ESET.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Sport	Est. Market Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.8 gallons (60 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 168.9 in. (429.2 cm)	Wheelbase: 101.5 in. (257.8 cm)
Height: 56 in. (142.3 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 19.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 24 Valve 4 Cylinder	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 200 HP	Max RPM: 5100-6000 rpm
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1800-5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

The 2012 Gumpert Apollo R is everything you would expect from a manufacturer that designs and produces race cars that are street legal.

Performance

The Apollo R is built exclusively for the track and with a 4.2 liter engine with 860 horsepower; it will certainly see a few checkered flags. Built primarily for an ever-growing Asian market, this speed machine has had many modifications to meet expectations and improve performance.

The engine itself required an increase in pressure for the supercharger, air vents that were redesigned to handle the needs of the motor as well as an improved cooling system that can remain effective in light of the intense temperatures.

The transmission is controlled by way of rocker switches alone to place more emphasis on vehicle control as opposed to use of a clutch pedal.

Bare Interior

The interior is strictly bare bones for the obvious reason while the suspension is first class and perfect for a vehicle of this type. The chassis has a newly designed Gumpert titanium stabilizer in the rear and enhancements to many of the other components to ensure safety while reducing weight.

Most suspension softening items have been altered or removed to guarantee this as purely a racing vehicle. The smaller tank allowed for a reduction in weight to just over 2425 pounds making this the lightest version in the ever popular Apollo line.

Exterior

The appearance is that of a smaller modified Indy car and makes no mistakes in presenting itself as it is designed for. You certainly will not be able to sneak this gem out on the road for a late night run.

This manufacturer took notice to the fact that their street legal vehicles were dominating at the track and the 2012 Gumpert Apollo R is their answer for those with dreams of owning and driving a true race car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Supercar

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 43.8 in. (111.4 cm)	Width: 78.6 in. (199.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 2425 lbs (1100 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: Supercharged V8	Displacement: 4.4 Liter
Horsepower: 860 HP	Transmission: 6-Speed Sequential