2012 Nissan Cube

The 2012 Nissan Cube may be a small wagon but it does not mean that it cannot give the versatility that you need. Having this trait, the Cube competes well in the arena of small affordable cars.

Urban dwellers who are looking for high tech features on the inside and unique looks outside will certainly find the Cube a good choice.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Compact Base Price: $14,980.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 l) MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 156.7 in. (398 cm) Wheel Base: 99.6 in. (252.9 cm)
Height: 65 in. (165.1 cm) Width: 66.7 in. (169.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 2789 lbs (1265 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.3 in. (16 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.4 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 16 Valve 4 Cylinder DOHC Displacement: 1.8 Liter
Horsepower: 122 HP Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 127 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
Available Trims & Engine
Option:1.8S MSRP: $16,580; MPG: 27 city / 31 hwy
Option:1.8 SL MSRP: $18,680; MPG: 27 city / 31 hwy
Option:1.8S Indigo Limited Edition MSRP: $19,580; MPG: 27 city / 31 hwy

Engine

The different trims of the 2012 Cube are equipped with a 1.8 liter engine that delivers 122 horsepower and 127 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with a 6-speed manual transmission but prospective owners can go for the optional Continuous Variable Transmission (CVT). We find driving the manual transmission fun but we prefer the one with the CVT because of better fuel mileage.

There are no official results from the EPA yet, but we can use the data from the 2011 model that has a fuel efficiency rating of 31 mpg for highway and 27 mpg for city driving. That is not the best in the competition but that is certainly good enough.

Performance

The new Cube runs well in the city as well as in the highway. It handles easily during turns, thanks to its size, it is nimble. If you are looking for speed the Cube is not right for you, but if you want an easy city cruiser, the Cube definitely is. Another thing that we liked about the Cube is the extra maneuverability that it provides especially when parking. Truly, it is designed for the city.

Another thing that is worth mentioning is that the Cube is not intended to be sporty, and that makes it even easier for car owners not to expect more than good city driving performance.

Exterior

The Cube literally looks like a cube with wheels. It is completely devoid of sportiness. It has a rare elegance though, that will suit the taste of car owners who do not want to look like everybody else.

Interior

The materials used for the interior are modest and are right for the price. There is enough headroom inside the cabin but taller passengers may find the space for the legroom lacking. There is no problem with smaller or average sized passengers though.

The seats are comfortable although the support they give may not be enough for very long drives. The rear seat can be reclined forward and backward to give a couch-like stance. Upgrading the trim will get you the high tech features such as wireless connectivity that suits today’s clever devices.

Safety

The federal government is yet to test the Cube in most areas. In the meantime, they gave it a 4 out of 5 star rollover score. On the other hand, it is a Top Safety Pick for the Insurance Institute on Highway Safety for scoring “good” in all the tests that they performed.

Moreover, the Cube has the standard safety features such as the dual stage airbags in the front, seat mounted airbags, roof mounted air bags and traction control.

Reliability

The Cube comes with the standard limited 3-year warranty and a 5-year powertrain warranty. Those who chose the CVT will receive a separate 10-year limited warranty for the CVT.

Pros

The 2012 Cube has good handling, competent fuel economy and good styling both for the exterior and the interior.

Cons

The new Cube has less legroom in the rear. It also tends to become noisy at high speeds.

If you live in the city, the 2012 Nissan Cube is perfect for your daily needs.

Competition

The Scion xB (MSRP $16,300; 22 city / 28 hwy) and the Kia Soul (MSRP $13,900; 27 city / 35 hwy) have a similar appearance with the Cube.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“For those motivated by style and fashion—yet still needing a healthy dose of practicality—the Cube hits the right buttons; practical types might find it hard to get past some packaging issues, though.”Car Connection

“For a basic economy car, Cube is fairly nimble and pleasant to drive. The precise steering has light effort at low speeds, but it builds nicely as the pace quickens. Close-quarters maneuverability is good thanks to Cube’s small footprint. Braking control is good.”Consumer Guide

“The tall and boxy Cube has an enormous amount of interior space and easy access.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Although it’s doubtful many driving enthusiasts will be falling over themselves to drive a 2012 Nissan Cube, most everyone else will probably find something to like.”KBB

“Reasonable performance; smooth ride; ample passenger space; easy to park; generous standard features list; unique customization opportunities. So-so handling; less cargo capacity behind the rear seats than rivals; below-average fuel economy; disappointing interior materials; excessive wind noise at high speeds.”Edmunds

April 15, 2012 at 5:21 pm | No comment

2012 Lexus RX 450h Hybrid

If you are looking for luxurious space as well as fuel economy and great style, take a good look at the 2012 Lexus RX 450h Hybrid.

This SUV gets 28 MPG city and 32 MPG Highway. This mid-size luxury SUV is a great value for its price. There are a handful of hybrid SUVs coming out of the woodwork, but the RX exhibits the class and comfort that Lexus has been known for.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: SUV Hybrid Base Price: $45,910.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.2 gallons (65 liters) MPG: 32 city / 28 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 187.8 in. (477 cm) Wheel Base: 107.9 in. (274 cm)
Height: 66.7 in. (169.5 cm) Width: 74.2 in. (188.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4520 lbs (2050 kg) Ground Clearance: 6.9 in. (17.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 40.0 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L Atkinson V6 DOHC Compression Ratio: 12.5: 1
Horsepower: 295 HP Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: NA Transmission: ECT-i
0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds Maximum Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)
Available Trims & Engine
Option:RX450h AWD MSRP: $47,310; MPG: 30 city / 28 hwy

Performance

This superior Hybrid has a 3.5 Liter V6 gasoline engine with 234lb – ft torque, and two electric drive motors. The 295 horsepower is more than sufficient power for city or highway driving. The Transmission is variable for an extra smooth acceleration. This car handles well and goes from 0 to 60 in 7.8 seconds.

The Lexus RX Hybrid comes in a FWD or AWD drive version. This is not a high performance sport vehicle and it definitely doesn’t provide the sharper driving experience of the BMW X3 or Audi Q5. The 2012 Lexus Hybrid provides a softer ride that is smooth and comfortable.

Exterior

The athletic appearance of the exterior is bathed in high quality anti- chip paint with a choice of exterior colors that will enhance the elegance of this gorgeous SUV. The heated outside mirrors are great and the Zinc plated steel on the sculpted front fenders, hood and doors provides an excellent level of rust protection. Combine all that with standard alloy wheels and a rear bumper protector as well as the UV reducing glass that is used on all the windows and you have a fantastic looking vehicle.

Interior

The rich wood trim and quality leather and exquisite fabric along with comfortable roomy seating attest to the opulence of the Lexus Hybrid. The high tech Navigation system with its remote touch interface is state of the art. The 40 cubic feet of luggage and cargo space makes this more than just another pretty car. The 10 way power front bucket seats, high end audio system, Bluetooth and XM satellite radio just may seal the deal for the discriminate buyer.

Safety

Anti-lock brakes and side airbags for the front and rear seats as well as dual front Knee air bags are just the beginning of the safety features. The emergency assistance button, as well as the stolen vehicle tracker is standard equipment in the 2012 Lexus Hybrid.

Reliability

This car has done extremely well in safety tests and has a basic warranty for the first four years or 50,000 miles and a power train warranty that is for 70,000 miles or six years. Of course this means that the 2012 Lexus Hybrid ranks high in safety and reliability.

Pros

  • Excellent safety scores
  • Comfort and luxurious style
  • Great fuel efficiency
  • Smart electronic interface
  • Smooth ride
  • Quality construction

Cons

Available options add up if you choose them, the price can be a detriment in this slow economy.

Competition

There are few hybrid SUVs that the RX Hybrid that have been compared to, the Mercedes Benz ML350 (MSRP $49,865; 17 city / 22 hwy), the BMW X3 (MSRP $37,995; 19 city / 25 hwy), and the Acura MDX (MSRP $43,925; 16 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
85 out of 100

What others say:

“The RX is a refined, quiet, and plush SUV. It rides comfortably and has a very well-finished interior.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Though expensive compared to the non-hybrid RX, the 2012 Lexus RX 450h delivers on its promise of impressive fuel economy, utility, power and luxury.”Edmunds

April 15, 2012 at 2:53 pm | No comment

2012 Lexus ES

At the release of the 2012 Lexus ES, it received better reviews for outstanding comfort. The luxury for which Lexus is known is in no doubt delivered by the new ES.

The ES was actually designed to be a sports sedan but in it ended up, as the consumer perceived it, like a luxury upscale sedan like the Toyota Camry. Whether the new ES achieved its goal of being sporty or not does not matter anymore because it brings the more important things – performance and luxury.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan Base Price: $37,600.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters) MPG: 19 city / 27 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 191.1 in. (487 cm) Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.6 cm)
Height: 56.3 in. (143 cm) Width: 71.7 in. (182 cm)
Curb Weight: 3580 lbs (1635 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft Maximum Seating: 5 people
Performance
Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC Compression Ratio: 10.8: 1
Horsepower: 268 HP Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Seq. Automatic ECT-i
0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds Maximum Speed: 137 mph (220 km/h)

Engine

The 2012 ES sports a V6 3.6 liter engine that delivers 268 horsepower at 6200 rpm and 248 lbs/ft of torque at 4700 rpm. From the moment you start driving the new Lexus ES, it will be clear that it is a luxury cruiser.

It made us wonder why many perceive it as a sports sedan when it actually does its job well being a cruiser. In fact, the ES is not the snappiest car when it comes to corners but you will never be disappointed on how smooth it shifts with its 6-speed transmission system.

Performance

No doubt, the new Lexus ES has enough muscle. Although it is not as sporty as the BMW 3 series and other midsized cars, it performs well in highways. Accelerating from 50 mph to 75 mph for passing becomes enjoyable.

However, it is not the most fuel efficient ride that you can get. It has a fuel economy rating of 28/19 mpg highway/city which is the average among its class. If it is power that you are looking for, the Lexus ES is worthy of your consideration.

Exterior

The Lexus ES has a styling that is profound enough to let you know that it is a luxury good. In a way, we can say that the ES got its roots from the Toyota Camry. They both have an almost plain profile that seems conventional.

But it does not mean it lacks style because it is still obvious that Lexus put a good amount of thought in its design. The lines and curves are refined and by using chrome for details, the overall theme becomes more defined.

Interior

The main reason you would like to buy the Lexus ES is because of its excellently crafted cabin. In fact, car owners believe that the interior, with soft leather and intuitive electronics, for the ES will fit a more expensive car. This combination is what makes the ES the leader in its class’ arena of cabin design.

The seats feature leather that has a softer grade than what car manufacturers typically use for their entry-level luxury coaches. And although taller drivers and passengers may find shortage in headroom, there is still plenty of support, padding and leg space. Its optional climate controlled front seats are definitely one of the best we have seen.

Safety

The federal government, after putting the car into the test, gave the Lexus ES a score of three stars. The insurance institute for highway safety gives it the “good” score for the side, front and roof crash tests but gives it a “marginal” for its rear crash test.

Reliability

The Lexus ES comes with a 6-year warranty for the powertrain, a 4-year standard warranty, and a perforation/corrosion warranty for 72 months.

Pros

The Lexus ES performs well and is comfortable, making it worthy of its price as an entry-level luxury car.

Cons

The Lexus ES is not as sporty as it is perceived.

Competition

The ES goes head to head against the BMW 3 series 328i (MSRP $35,795; 23 city / 34 hwy), Infiniti G (MSRP $37,295; 19 city / 27 hwy), and of course the Mercedes Benz C300 (MSRP $39,305; 18 city / 25 hwy) when it comes to comparative performance.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“ In some ways the ES 350 is epitome of a classic luxury car—serene and soft, but not at all bouncy, with a powertrain that moves you along quickly but almost silently.”Car Connection

“ES 350 has competent front-drive behavior. But the ride-biased suspension tuning precludes the cornering poise of its sportier rivals. The steering filters out most road feel. Brake performance is good, though the pedal feels mushy in simulated panic stops.”Consumer Guide

“The Lexus ES 350 is a solid and sedate sedan that shares its platform with the Toyota Camry.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“2012 marks the final model year of the Lexus ES 350 before a planned revamp in 2013. While it is getting a little long in the tooth, the ES 350 is still a worthy competitor to luxury sedans such as the Acura TL, Audi A6, Infiniti G37 and Lincoln MKZ.”KBB

“Powerful, velvety-smooth V6; plush ride; sumptuous interior. Price increases quickly with options; unimpressive handling and braking.”Edmunds

April 15, 2012 at 2:20 am | 1 comment

2012 Valmet Dawn EV Concept

Just looking at the 2012 Valmet Dawn EV Concept, people will definitely think that they are looking at a character in a fantasy film.

This car is a true concept for the future.

The Valmet Dawn looks like a powerful ride that can take you just about anywhere your heart desires.

Curious Concept

After it was revealed by Valmet Automotive at the Geneva Motor Show, it was certainly one of the cars that people were curious about. The Dawn EV Concept is still on the process of developing its engineering feat.

The company created a two-fold system in the Electric Vehicle (EV) world. The car is also being upgraded to further enhance its R and D to complement well with the integrator role.

At the Geneva Motor Show, the Dawn demonstrator gave people a look into the future. Since the Dawn EV Concept is still at its early stages, the company gave onlookers a view of their concept idea.

The car is conceptual and is not a fully operational vehicle. Even if this car is at the early stages of development, Valmet Automotive would like to focus on how they can enhance the EV system further. This would give them an idea on how to create a car that will surely blow people’s mind.

Details

There have been a few details about this car which definitely perks people’s interest. It is not only the sleek, white exterior that entices car enthusiasts but the car’s core technology is highlighted in its body.

People at the motor show were able to see the EV concept right before their eyes. It’s electric motor, battery pack and power electronics control system was raised to give individuals a good look at the Valmet Dawn.

This electric car has a universal outlet but it also features a wireless charging system. These technologies are still being developed but one thing is for sure: The 201 Valmet Dawn EV Concept will be a popular car for the future.

April 14, 2012 at 5:53 pm | No comment

2012 Nissan GT-R

The 2012 Nissan GT-R is the latest Super Luxury Sports car from this well known Japanese manufacturer. The GT-R is the sports car that offers substantial output and top-tier performance at a reasonable price.

To date, the 2012 GT-R is perhaps the best yet in the series since its debut, boasting significant upgrades that are sure to satisfy shoppers looking for unparalleled driving power and handling.

While wrought with a few minor issues, the overall performance makes the GT-R a bargain compared to its rivals.

Specifications

General Info
Vehicle Type: Coupe Base Price: $89,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (71L) MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Dimensions
Length: 183.9 in. (467.1 cm) Wheel Base: 109.4 in. (277.8 cm)
Height: 53.9 in. (136.9 cm) Width: 74.6 in. (189.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3829 lbs (1736 kg) Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 8.8 cu ft Maximum Seating: 4 people
Performance
Engine: 24 Valve Twin Turbo V6 DOHC Displacement: 3.8 Liter
Horsepower: 530 HP Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 448 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm Transmission: 6-Speed Auto-Manual
0-60 mph: 2.7 seconds 1/4 Mile: 11.1 seconds
Available Trims & Engine
Option:Black Edition MSRP: $95,100; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Engine & Performance

The GT-R comes in two trims: Premium and Black Edition. Both are equipped with a 3.8 liter twin turbo-charged V6 engine. The model boasts of a 448 pound-feet of torque at 3,200 to 6,000 rpm and 530 horsepower at 6,400 rpm. Some shoppers may not be too familiar with its automated manual transmission which will seem awkward with low speeds.

Nonetheless, the GT-R remains among the list of the fastest cars in terms of acceleration. The GT-R 2012 is also equipped with an all-wheel drive which delivers fluid handling dynamics. Steering is precise and direct but some may argue that it’s less comfortable compared to its pricey competitors.

Exterior

There is indeed a marked distinction that separates the 2012 Nissan GT-R from its European and American competitors. It fashions a more conservative digital age look and feel, undeniably less showy than Italian builds. It does have a few quirks that make it easily recognizable, from the roofline chopping into the rear end, a large rear wing and circular tail lamps.

Interior

The interior is typical of its vehicle class, sleek and sporty. However, the GT-R might not be the most pleasant ride for backseat passengers as well as large bodied drivers. The back seat is best left for cargo rather than passengers. Compared to other brands, the GT-R may not be as luxurious.

On the plus side, the GT-R comes with state of the art interior features. All of them, from the navigation system to phone and network connectivity are up to standards and are placed in a smart, easy to access arrangement. The GT-R also has a large usable trunk space which is rare in sports cars.

Safety & Reliability

To date, the GT-R has not undergone any crash testing by the federal government or any Insurance Institute. Despite this, this model comes equipped with several standardized safety features from side airbags and curtain airbags. The car also comes with an Anti-Brake lock system as well as intelligent stability control features.

This helps in keeping the ride smooth and safe given the tremendous output the GT-R exudes. The car has garnered a score of 3 out of 5 in terms of predicted reliability from the standards set by J.D. Power.

Overall

The model boasts a tremendous output that rivals most sports cars in the market while having a much more reasonable price tag. Interior design is intuitive but places less value in comfort and luxury.

While the GT-R has several on board safety features, any real standardized safety testing is still on the way. Indeed, the 2012 Nissan GT-R is the ultimate choice for those looking for a powerful, sleek and reliable ride along the fast lane.

Competition

Higher priced competition like the V10 Audi R8 (MSRP $149,000; 12 city / 19 hwy), Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 V8 (MSRP $111,600; 14 city / 21 hwy), and the new Porsche 911 Turbo H6 (MSRP $137,500; 16 city / xx hwy) are considered alternatives to the GT-R.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 GT-R outraces some of the world’s top sports cars, at a fraction of their price.”Car Connection

“GT-R corners with virtually zero body lean especially at speeds suitable for public roads. The steering is well weighted, but it demands near-constant attention because the tires want to follow any and all pavement grooves. The touchy brakes take a bit of getting used to, but they deliver excellent control with a firm pedal.”Consumer Guide

“The latest Nissan GT-R is a pussycat compared to the previous iteration. It’s still a fire-breathing performance machine that can out-accelerate anything in its price range, but where the previous GT-R was scary to know and not much fun to drive, the new one is playful and entertaining and fun.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re looking for cutting-edge performance in a fairly exclusive car, the GT-R is likely to be far more satisfying than a BMW M3, Audi R8 or Chevrolet Corvette Z06.”KBB

“Stupefying acceleration; very high handling limits; easy to drive; fast; high-quality interior; bargain price. The 2012 Nissan GT-R proves that world-class performance can be attained without stratospheric prices.”Edmunds

April 14, 2012 at 1:09 pm | No comment

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