The 2012 Lexus RX 350 is a luxury midsize SUV. It has been one of the most visible luxury vehicles you’ll find all over the place.

This is a market segment in which the Japanese manufacturer has been quite successful in recent years, and most reviewers feel that the 2012 model has continued this success.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury SUV	Base Price: $39,310.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.2 gallons (72.5 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 25 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: 4178 lbs (1895 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.3 in. (18.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 40.0 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.8: 1
Horsepower: 270 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Auto ECT-i
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16.1 seconds
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs* (1588 kgs)	Maximum Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)

*with optional tow package

Available Trims & Engine

Option:RX350 AWD	MSRP: $40,710; MPG: 18 city / 24 hwy
Option:RX350 F Sport	MSRP: $47,000; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy

Engine

This SUV is available in either front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration. Both versions are powered by a 3.5-liter, V8 engine producing 270 horsepower, so customers can select the style they prefer without having to worry about making trade-offs. The AWD model has very slightly worse fuel consumption, but the difference is no more than 1 mpg.

Performance

Some reviewers have found the car to be less enjoyable to drive than a few of its rivals, so it would be more suited to buyers for whom luxury and comfort take precedence among their requirements.

Exterior

The RX 350 has a fairly conservative exterior appearance, making it unlikely to cause any offense – but also making it less suitable for drivers who like to be the center of attention. However, it does look classy, and is likely to be popular with those who need to project an image of calm assurance.

This is definitely an SUV that would be at home in an executive parking lot. As it is a midsize model, it is not unduly difficult to maneuver in city traffic, allowing the Lexus to be used as a true multi-purpose vehicle.

Interior

Lexus has chosen not to stuff this car’s interior with every possible feature and gadget, so some of its rivals in the marketplace do offer a little more in the way of creature comforts as standard. However, an extensive range of options is available for those buyers who do want to make their journeys as luxurious as possible.

Even on the standard model, there is plenty of leather and wood trim. Lexus has a reputation for taking the approach that its drivers require quietly assured luxury, and many testers have reported that the RX has a very comfortable ride.

Safety

The RX was named as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. In government testing, the Lexus earned a rating of the maximum five stars in the side impact test, while it scored four stars in rollover and frontal crash tests.

Average for SUVs in this class, the RX 350 has ten airbags, but it also boasts a crash mitigation system which can reduce the seriousness of collisions that do occur, as well as active headrests in the front. One drawback noted by some reviewers is the car’s mediocre visibility to the rear, caused by its thick pillars. A rear-facing camera system is available as an option.

Reliability

J.D. Power predicts a reliability score of 4.5 out of five for the 2012 Lexus RX 350, and the company has a good reputation for building reliable cars. In common with other Lexus models, the RX is covered by a four-year, 50,000-mile warranty, with the powertrain receiving an extended cover period of six years or 70,000 miles.

There is also a six-year corrosion warranty. The SUV performs very well in terms of fuel consumption, as it is one of the most economical SUVs in its class. Its government figures of 18 mph in city conditions and 24 mpg on the highway compare very favorably to most of the Lexus’s rivals, and contribute to low running costs.

Competition

There are other SUVs that the RX350 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
78 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Lexus RX 350 is relatively responsive and refined, but not at all exciting or nimble, and it’s abundantly clear in even a short drive around the block that performance takes the second (or third) stage to comfort and refinement.”Car Connection

“Agile handling is not the RX’s forte, but both RX 350 and 450h are competent enough on twisty roads.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 RX is a stylish and comfortable luxury crossover that offers an interior that’s as intuitive as it is spacious.”KBB

“The 2012 Lexus RX 350 leads when it comes to providing a plush ride, a luxurious cabin and everyday utility. For most buyers, those attributes should be enough to overcome its rather uninspiring driving dynamics.”Edmunds

The 2012 Lexus HS, after its release was not able to awe hybrid enthusiasts. Having tested it, it is clear that it is not on par with other Lexus cars which are known for their luxury.

And it is not the only area where the 2012 HS was not able to succeed. But like any other car, the 2012 HS deserves a closer look inside and out along the featured highlights that make it attractive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $37,905.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (54.8 liters)	MPG: 35 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 184.8 in. (469.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 59.3 in. (150.5 cm)	Width: 70.3 in. (178.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3682 lbs (1770 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.1 in. (15.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L DOHC Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 12.5: 1
Horsepower: 187 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Drive: FWD	Transmission: ECV-t
0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 112 mph (180 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:250h Premium

MSRP: $40,675; MPG: 35 city / 34 hwy

Engine

The 2012 HS has a four cylinder inline 2.4 liter engine paired with an electric motor. This combination delivers 187 horsepower. The transmission for the new HS is automatic.According to the EPA, the fuel consumption rating of the new Lexus HS is 35 highway/34 city mpg.

The electric motor greatly contributes to its fuel efficiency because the car can rely on electric power during low speeds.

Performance

The new Lexus HS can run from a standstill to 60 mph in 8.4 seconds. Also, it can accelerate well within the range of 20 to 60 mile per hour range. With these statistics, the Lexus HS is not slow.Credit should go to the combination of the engine and the electric motor.

However, it is not the sportiest car in its class. And although it is lively in its Power mode, it can become sluggish in its Eco mode.The regenerative brakes of the new Lexus HS can be “grabby” in the beginning. But drivers will start forgetting about the sensitivity once they get to drive the car for a while.

Power steering of the new HS is light and sensitive. However, it can get a little boring at times. Being well controlled, the new Lexus HS is ideal for daily commuting around town.

Exterior

The new Lexus HS is available in two trims, the Premium and the base. The base model features a sunroof, 17″ alloy wheels, heater outside mirrors, fog lights, keyless entry and ignition, and rear view mirrors that dim automatically. It also has Bluetooth connectivity, USB and iPod interface, automatic dual zone climate control, satellite radio, and a sound system with 10 speakers.

The Premium model has all the standard features plus upgraded leather upholstery, ventilated and heated front seats, exterior mirrors that are capable of auto-dimming, 18″ alloy wheels, driver memory settings and automatic wipers.

Interior

The 2012 Lexus HS uses thin, eco-friendly materials for its seats. This approach gives the new Lexus HS a new character that is different from its siblings.

The seats are comfortable because they provide enough space.The car also uses bio-plastic. Although most liked the idea of being eco-friendly, Lexus fans may find the use of plastic cheap.

Safety

In the rear impact test conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the new Lexus HS scored “marginal.” It scored “acceptable” for the side impact test, and scored “good” in the front crash test. The federal government is yet to test the Lexus HS.

Reliability

The new Lexus HS comes with a 6-year powertrain warranty and a 4-year new car warranty. In the first year of ownership, Lexus provides roadside support. Its hybrid components are covered by a different warranty that lasts for eight years.

Pros

The new Lexus HS is built in excellence. It has a comfortable cabin and high-tech and intuitive equipment. It also has adequate safety features.

Cons

The Lexus HS can become more expensive as you put on upgrades.If you are a Lexus fan, you will find a different character in the new HS. However, those differences are not a major reason for you not to consider the 2012 Lexus HS.

Competition

The small hybrid sedan market has enough room that even Lexus is giving BMW 328i (MSRP $35,795; 23 city / 34 hwy), Infiniti G 37 Journey (MSRP $37,295; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the Acura TSX AT (MSRP $30,905; 22 city / 31 hwy) a good challenge.

Overall Rating

75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Lexus HS 250h won’t win many stop-light drag races, and it’s happiest (and most fuel-efficient) under light loads, but it’s safe and comfortable regardless.”Car Connection

“Body lean is well controlled in fast turns. Steering feels somewhat dead and slow on-center and lacks road feel, but is light for good low-speed maneuverability.”Consumer Guide

“Based on the Toyota Avensis, which is sold in markets outside the U.S., the HS hybrid uses the powertrain from the previous Toyota Camry hybrid.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“There aren’t many premium hybrid sedans to choose from, but the 2012 Lexus HS 250h delivers with a luxurious cabin and thrifty fuel consumption.”Edmunds

The 2012 Nissan Titan is a capable full-size truck that can deliver what a regular truck user needs.

However, it is less favored because its competitors are less expensive, newer and more capable.

Having that noted, the new Nissan Titan seems to be a little dated.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Truck	Base Price: $28,520.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons (106L)	MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 224.6 in. (570.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 139.8 in. (355 cm)
Height: 74.6 in. (189.4 cm)	Width: 79.5 in. (201.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 4847 lbs (2198 kg)	Ground Clearance: 10.2 in. (25.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 32 Valve V8 DOHC	Displacement: 5.6 Liter
Horsepower: 317 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 385 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 7400 lbs (3356 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SV King Cab 4×2	MSRP: $30,520; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Pro 4X King Cab 4×2	MSRP: $36,070; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Crew Cab S 4×2	MSRP: $31,070; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Crew Cab SV 4×2	MSRP: $32,270; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:Crew Cab Pro-4X 4×4	MSRP: $38,270; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy
Option:Crew Cab SL 4×2	MSRP: $38,440; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Engine

The 2012 Nissan Titan is equipped with a 5.6 liter V8 engine that delivers 317 horsepower and 385 lbs/ft of torque. It is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission. This should provide adequate muscle when you are driving on the highway.

However, it is, according to the EPA, one of the trucks that have the worst fuel economy ratings. Its all-wheel drive model has a rating of 17 mph for highway and 12 mpg for city driving. Its two wheel drive model only increases the numbers by one.

Performance

The Nissan Titan is good on the road. It performs well during passing. However, the transmission system is not flawless. Although the shift from the first to second gear is smooth, there are delays in other gears especially if you are downshifting.

For a truck, the Nissan Titan handles well. However, the competition seems too fast for the Titan to catch up because other trucks are coming with a “car-like” handling. That could certainly leave Nissan far behind even if the Titan provides a comfortable and smooth ride. If you do not expect much from a truck, particularly about car-like handling, the Titan is just all right for you.

Exterior

When it comes to trucks, there is not much to expect when it comes to appearance. The basic features such as the bed, the muscular frame and the big hood are present in the Titan. It has a smooth finish and minimal curves that help a bit in preventing it from looking dated. The Titan does not look like the truck of the future either. It appears just right for its time.

Interior

Nowadays, customers expect more comfort from trucks because they serve purposes other than hauling and towing. This is what we do not like about the Titan. Its interiors do not provide the comfort that the RAM 1500 (MSRP $30,290; 14 city / 20 hwy) brings.

It does not have useful in-truck computers which are very useful at work like the Ford F150 (MSRP $23,500; 17 city / 23 hwy) has. And although the Titan provides adequate cargo space, it is not as clever as the cargo solutions provided by the Ram 1500.

The front seats of the Titan are comfortable and spacious but not its bench and rear seats. This problem was common for trucks before but since its competitors have already improved in this aspect, Nissan has some catching up to do.

Safety

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Titan a “good” score in frontal offset and rear crash tests. The Titan received an “acceptable” score for roof strength tests but it is not yet tested for side-impact tests.

On the other hand, the Titan received 3 out of 5 stars from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Reliability

The 2012 Titan comes with the basic 3-year warranty and a 5-year warranty for the powertrain.

Pros & Cons

The Nissan Titan is powerful, well-handling and has a spacious cabin. Despite its good qualities, the Nissan Titan is outshined by its competitors in many aspects.

Because there are better trucks than the 2012 Nissan Titan for the price, you might just go home with another truck.

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Nissan Titan has held up well over a long lifespan, but its gas mileage, towing and hauling, and performance have fallen to the back of the full-size pickup truck pack.”Car Connection

“Titan is relatively easy to drive for a big pickup. Still, as with any of the breed, the rear end tends to hop through bumpy corners when the cargo bed is empty. Steering feel is accurate, and the brakes deliver smooth stops.”Consumer Guide

“Nissan’s full-sized truck has an impressively large cabin and is relatively agile. It has a decent ride and a punchy engine with a very smooth transmission.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“While marketed primarily to those who do light- to medium-duty work, it’s probably a better bet that the 2012 Nissan Titan will find a home with those who like to spend weekends on the lake with their boat, or up in the mountains with their dirt bikes.”KBB

“The 2012 Nissan Titan lineup possesses some rugged qualities and value opportunities, but overall it’s outclassed by other, newer pickups.”Edmunds

Koenigsegg is one of the best car companies that are known to be a top runner when it comes to developing premier supercars.

This year everyone will be able to see another addition to this company’s high end cars.

The 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R will surely be welcomed into the world of racing just like its predecessors. The Agera R has been revolutionized but still complies with the enhancements that previous cars of Koenigsegg have produced.

Green Performance

Koenigsegg is truly an advocate for green technology since the release of the biofuel CCXR in 2007. Due to this vision, the Agera R runs on the biofuel CCXR but also functions with an E85 green fuel.

The fuel system of the Agera R has been upgraded to give future users the chance to experience 1140 horsepower and a maximum torque of 885 lb-ft on E85 or E100 biofuel. Owners can also opt for normal petrol due to the car’s flexfuel system.

Aircore Technology

The Agera R comes with a super light carbon fiber wheel that allows drivers to enjoy and stay safe in the car. This new technology developed by Koenigsegg is called the Aircore Technology.

It saves up to 44 pounds of unsprung mass and makes sure that the driving system is safe and precise. The wheel of the Agera R works in tandem with Koenigsegg Electronic Stability which can be found on every single Koenigsegg car.

You Choose

Since all cars from Koenigsegg is made to order, future owners of the 2013 Koenigsegg Agera R will be able to choose the color of the car’s interior and exterior.

This will give individuals a car that is personalized and made to last. Shades and color combinations are readily available at the company’s website to allow people to have a level of variation for their very own Agera R.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Super Car	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (80 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 18.8 combined

Dimensions

Length: 169 in. (429.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.8 in. (266.2 cm)
Height: 44.1 in. (112 cm)	Width: 78.6 in. (199.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3163 lbs (1435 kg)	Ground Clearance: 3.94 in. (10 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 4.24 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 5.0L V8 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.0: 1
Horsepower: 1140 HP	Max RPM: 7100 RPM
Torque: 885 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Dual Clutch
0-60 mph: 2.9 seconds	Maximum Speed: 273 mph (actual speed has not been tested)

The 2012 Nissan Juke is one of the several small cars available on the market that come at a very affordable price. What sets this car apart from the multitude of small cars in the industry is its unique and quirky design.

Because of its unique approach in exterior design, this model sacrifices aspects of space efficiency. Despite this, the Juke does have its own strong points in certain areas.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Crossover	Base Price: $19,990.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13 gallons (49L)	MPG: 27 city / 32 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 162.4 in. (412.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.6 in. (252.9 cm)
Height: 61.8 in. (156.9 cm)	Width: 69.5 in. (176.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2959 lbs (1342 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7 in. (17.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16 Valve Inline 4 DOHC	Displacement: 1.6 Liter
Horsepower: 188 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 177 lb-ft @ 2000-5200 rpm	Transmission: Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Juke SV	MSRP: $21,610; MPG: 27 city / 32 hwy
Option:Juke SL	MSRP: $23,930; MPG: 27 city / 32 hwy
Option:Juke S AWD	MSRP: $21,650; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy
Option:Juke SV AWD	MSRP: $23,760; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy
Option:Juke SL AWD	MSRP: $26,080; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy

Engine

The Nissan Juke is equipped with a turbocharged engine as well as fluid athletic handling dynamics. This model is generally praised as an above average performer. The Juke is built with an optional all-wheel drive as well, making it a safe choice for tumultuous weather conditions.

Despite its relatively small build, the Juke produces 188 horsepower with its 1.6 liter 4 -cylinder injection engine. This comes with all trims of the Juke. Compared to other small car models, the Juke’s engine offers an average rating for fuel economy.

The car is also equipped with the Nissan’s Integrated Control System (I-CON). This allows drivers to choose from 3 modes (Eco, Normal, and Sport). Eco mode has a minimal throttle response while Sport has the fastest response. This is an intuitive system that is easy to access.

Performance

The handling of the Juke is comparable to models like the Mini Cooper. The all-wheel drive allows for better grip and some owners praise the car’s agility in handling.

Exterior

Most will agree that the design choice for the 2012 Nissan Juke is quirky and uncommon. Everything from its wide hips, angular rear as well as odd body proportions and striking grille all form a rather unconventional exterior look and feel.

The unique design choice also reflects all the way into the interior. Glossy plastic accents dominate the interior as well as bright nylon upholstery.

Interior

The Juke is a small car and given that fact, there is pretty much little room for the interior. The front seats are relatively comfortable but the back seats do not fare as well when it comes to comfort. The roof is quite low in the back and there is even smaller space for legroom. The same can also be said for the cargo space as the Juke offers the smallest room available for its size.

The car’s interior features are straightforward and easy to use. The Juke has an extensive list of standard features you would expect from modern builds. Higher trims can be installed with optional features, like rearview cam and radio traffic updates.

Safety & Reliability

The Juke scored “Good” on all safety tests by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and scored 4 out of 5 in tests done by the Federal Government.

The Juke comes with the standard safety features such as 6 multidirectional airbags as well as traction control for better handling as well anti-lock brakes. However, the Juke only scored 2.5 out of 5 in the predicted reliability rating set by J.D. Power.

Pros

• Integrated Control System offers 3 driving modes
• Optional all-wheel drive for bad weather
• Superb handling
• Unique Exterior Design
• Complete Standard Interior Functionalities and Safety Features
• Good Rating on Standard Safety tests

Cons

• Small, uncomfortable back seat
• Small Cargo Space
• Average Predicted reliability

The Juke is a unique looking model that performs fairly well with an intuitive control system and above average handling. Space is always an issue for these kinds of builds. Those looking for a dependable car for those quick weekend getaways or frequent trips to the grocery store can find a great deal with the 2012 Nissan Juke.

Competition

You can count the number of cars that may be comparable to the Juke, this includes the 2 seater Honda CR-Z (MSRP $20,345; 35 city / 39 hwy), the Mini Cooper (MSRP $19,500; 29 city / 37 hwy), and the Kia Sportage (MSRP $18,500; 21 city / 29 hwy).

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

“Scant room and lousy gas mileage probably don’t even matter–if you’re into the 2012 Nissan Juke’s crazy styling, you’ll probably love its zingy powertrain and its dino-skin cockpit.”Car Connection

“Thanks in part to a fairly wide track (distance between wheels on the same axle) and standard 17-inch tires, all Jukes have sporty, nimble moves. AWD models deliver an extra measure of road-holding grip. “D-Mode” system’s Sport setting sharpens the steering feel for spirited driving.”Consumer Guide

“The funky-looking Juke is derived from the small Nissan Versa. It has the raised ride height and optional AWD of an SUV, but the steeply raked rear quarter makes for lousy rear visibility.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re into cutting-edge interior styling, the 2012 Nissan Juke crossover is the poster child for the compact CUV segment.”KBB

“It might not be love at first sight, but a drive in the 2012 Nissan Juke will have you seeing the inner beauty of this feisty hatchback.”Edmunds