If you want luxury in the car you drive, then the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS is the perfect car for you. This sedan has an upper hand when it comes to luxury more than any other sedan in the market. This car looks terrific especially by having only two seats at the back. Compared with earlier CLS models, it has a commanding style. This model has managed to set the auto world aflutter especially by its style and elegance.

Performance & Style

Anyone owning this car will pride himself as having made the right choice due to its superb performance. It outshines most cars and provides very good visibility. The 2012 CLS comes with an advanced V-8 engine which when combined with the elegant appealing design, could easily become the car of choice for most auto lovers. The Mercedes trademark grille comes dominating on this car making it to easily dominate when it comes to brand recognition. This car model gives you the option of either full LED lights option or not. This feature has sent many luxury auto car makers a shiver down their spines leaving them wondering what more the monster can offer.

The earlier CLS models come with its trademark sloping roof line which has been emulated by other car makers over the years. However, for this model, the design trademark has been replaced by a more traditional profile that is dressed up with a few scallops running along the doors.

It then drops radically off the rear giving it a more rounded truncation. By simply turning on the ignition key, it has a startling effect and when combined with the giant tail lights, it speaks volumes about its authority when it comes to performance. It also comes in large 19 inch wheels, a chin spoiler and a more aggressive bumper.

The Mercedes-Benz CLS has enough power to satisfy most drivers. However, it has not outdone other main competitors like BMW who has a twin turbo engine which is faster. When taking off standing position, it is not able to pick up speed as fast as other models.

The Competition

There are quite few vehicles of the same class as the CLS, names that you will recognize. The Jaguar XJ (MSRP $73,700; 16 city / 23 hwy), the Infiniti M56 (MSRP $58,450; 16 city / 25 hwy), and the Porsche Panamera (MSRP $75,200; 18 city / 27 hwy). The Infiniti M56 is the least priced but with the most horsepower at 420.

Pros & Cons

However, it’s steering is precise and anyone cruising in it at twisty roads will do it with ease even when at high speed. For highway drivers as well, the steering is perfect as it is not heavy at all. The car comes with an attractive interior and all seats are comfortable. There is also ample headroom for tall people.

Most people feel like the manufacturers went a little bit too far when it comes to pricing. When compared to other brands, it is higher even if the other brand comes with more features. However, that alone won’t prevent anyone who wants to own a Mercedes CLS.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The original “four-door coupe”–if you put faith in such a thing–is back for a final model year before Mercedes-Benz replaces the 2011 CLS-Class sedan with a more muscular vehicle.”Car Connection

“CLS is too big to be really agile, but the CLS550 exhibits little cornering lean and provides strong grip in fast turns.”Consumer Guide

“We’re not sure if it makes financial sense, but the 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class is one of the most lustworthy sedans on the road today.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $71,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (79.8 liters)	MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 194.5 in. (494 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.2 in. (287.5 cm)
Height: 55.8 in. (141.7 cm)	Width: 81.7 in. (207.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4158 lbs (1886 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 4.6L 32-valve DOHC V8	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 402 HP	Max RPM: 5000-5750 RPM
Torque: 443 lb-ft @ 1800-4750 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.1 seconds	1/4 Mile: 13.1 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:CLS550 4Matic	MSRP: $73,800; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:CLS63 AMG	MSRP: $94,900; MPG: 15 city / 22 hwy

How many bumper stickers say, “My other car is a Lexus?” The Lexus is the dream car of many people, and the 2012 CT200h is surprisingly affordable for an upscale car.

The CT200h car is a hybrid and for most reviewers it suffers the fate of other hybrids by lacking the pizzazz of conventional small, sporty cars. It will be acceptable for folks who have the money to spend on a small, upscale car with a spiritless performance.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $29,120.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gallons (45 liters)	MPG: 43 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 170.1 in. (432 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.4 in. (260 cm)
Height: 56.7 in. (144 cm)	Width: 69.5 in. (176.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3156 lbs (1427 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (14.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.8L Inline-4 DOHC Hybrid	Compression Ratio: 13.0: 1
Horsepower: 134 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 142 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: ECV-t
0-60 mph: 9.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 113 mph (182 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:CT 200h Premium

MSRP: $31,750; MPG: 43 city / 40 hwy

People who love to drive or who are more environmentally aware might go for a ride like the Honda CR-Z (MSRP $20,485; 31 city / 37 hwy), the Volkswagen GTI (MSRP $26,465; 21 city / 31 hwy) or the Audi A3 (MSRP $30,645; 21 city / 30 hwy).

Engine

The Lexus CT200h has a 1.8 liter four-cylinder, gas/electric engine with 134 horsepower, which many reviewers thought was a pitiable amount for even a small car that’s supposed to be sporty.

Performance

The CT200h was designed to perform well and to have a good fuel economy. It does both, getting 43 mils per gallon in the city and 40 miles per gallon on the highway. The performance is satisfactory for a hybrid.

However, the car is a Lexus and reviewers were expecting much more. The car didn’t feel powerful to its drivers and it didn’t accelerate the way a sporty car should. Some reviewers complained that the car actually shuddered a bit when the gas engine came on.

The CT200h has normal, ECO, EV and sport driving modes, and reviewers preferred the sporty mode because that was when the car performed at its best. However, it still didn’t perform well enough. Aside from problems with power and acceleration, its brakes were temperamental.

Exterior

Test drivers found the exterior of the CT200h to be as drab as its performance. It’s clunky and has too many angles. It looks like a hybrid between a turtle and a scarab beetle.

Interior

Reviewers gave the car fairly high marks for the quality and esthetics of its interior, but again lamented that the interior just wasn’t as sleek as a sporty car’s interior should be, and certainly not as sleek as the inside of a Lexus should be.

Though the seats were fairly comfortable, it was hard to see well out of the rear windshield and the back was a tight fit for tall adults. Some people also complained that the radio controls were old fashioned.

The CT comes equipped with a leather trimmed steering wheel, climate control, satellite radio, USB port and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel. It can also be equipped with optional moon roof, state of the art sound system and a backup camera.

The cabin doesn’t have too much storage space, with 14.3 cubic feet for cargo behind the second row. Reviewers also complained that the glove compartment and door bins were too small.

Safety

The CT200h really shines in the safety department, according to the insurances industry. It’s an IIHS Top Safety pick and got scores of “good” in several strength tests. The car also has eight airbags, and smart stop technology. Though many reviewers complained that the brakes were dodgy, they also come with some safety features.

Reliability

J.D. Power gave the 2012 Lexus CT200h a 4.5 reliability score. It has a four year or 50,000 mile warranty, and a six year, 70,000 miles powertrain warranty.
The hybrid system’s warranty lasts for eight years or 100,000 miles and there’s a six year unlimited mileage rust damage warranty.

Pros and Cons

Most reviewers were disappointed with the car overall, but they liked its interior, even if it wasn’t as sporty as it should have been. The fuel economy was also good, but power was sacrificed to obtain it.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Lexus CT 200h is pitched as an alternative that’s a little sportier than other eco-minded hybrids, and mostly that’s true. But you won’t find its performance to be as engaging or responsive as that of other entry-luxury hatchbacks like the Audi A3 or Volvo C30.”Car Connection

“Touchy on-center steering makes the CT a bit darty on straight roads. Sport mode amplifies the effect and adds more weight to the steering at low speeds; perhaps too much for some folks. There’s little body lean in fast corners.”Consumer Guide

“Best fuel economy in its segment; attractive price; engaging handling for a hybrid; driver-friendly cabin with superb ergonomics.”Edmunds

Lexus has built an excellent reputation for itself as a manufacturer of large luxury cars, and the 2013 Lexus GS continues the line of high quality models from the Japanese manufacturer.

The most significant changes to have been made since the previous model appeared on the market in 2011 are cosmetic, but small tweaks and enhancements have been made elsewhere as well.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $46,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gallons (66 liters)	MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.7 in. (484.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.2 in. (285 cm)
Height: 57.3 in. (145.5 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (184 cm)
Weight: 3795 lbs (1685 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.4 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.8: 1
Horsepower: 306 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 277 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable ECT-i
0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 144 mph (231 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:GS350 AWD	MSRP: $50,325; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:GS F Sport RWD	MSRP: $53,465; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Option:GS F Sport AWD	MSRP: $56,020; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy

Engine & Performance

A big change for the 2013 model year is that the GS is no longer available with a V8 engine under the hood. Instead, there is only one powerplant available, a 3.5-liter V6 unit that provides 306 horsepower. Although that figure is only marginally up on the previous GS model, testers have reported that the level of power on offer is sufficient for most drivers’ needs.

However, a few reviewers have reported that the six-speed gearbox does not match up to the newer eight-speed transmissions fitted into some of this car’s competitors.

Exterior

The Lexus looks quite different from its 2012 predecessor, with an exterior that has been heavily redesigned for the new model year. This is generally seen as a successful move, with few testers lamenting the loss of the old styling cues.

The new car has been given quite a sporty and aggressive overall appearance, but this has been achieved without losing the classy feel for which Lexus has become known. The GS would suit a driver who wants a good-looking car, but who doesn’t mind if it stays a little way out of the limelight compared with a BMW or a Mercedes-Benz.

Interior

The cabin of the GS is a very comfortable and attractive place to be, both for the driver and the passengers. Lexus has created an interior which comes close to Mercedes-Benz levels of quality and luxury, and which can certainly hold its own in comparison with the likes of Audi and Infiniti.

Compared with the 2012 model, the car is roomier inside as well as having a larger trunk. However, although general build quality is very high, some of the fine detail is not quite up to BMW standards. Another reported concern is that the multimedia controller is not as easy to use as it should be.

Safety

The 2013 Lexus GS has not yet undergone government crash testing, so it is not possible to give a detailed picture of how well the car would stand up to an impact. That said, the company has worked hard on improving safety features, and the car now boasts an impressive complement of 10 airbags.

There is also a variety of cameras, night-vision systems and heads-up display units to help improve visibility. Although some of these are listed as options, they are likely to be popular choices, as rear visibility is not perfect.

Reliability

Lexus has a good record in terms of looking after its customers, and it is expected that the 2013 GS will continue the previous model’s practice of offering unlimited-mileage breakdown cover for a period of four years from purchase.

The car’s warranty is also likely to be similar to the earlier models, with basic cover lasting for four years or 50,000 miles, and a slightly extended period of six years or 72,000 miles for the engine and transmission.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2013 Lexus GS lineup is immediately notable for what’s been taken out (the V-8 option) and for what’s not been added (more gears, more transmissions even).”Car Connection

“GS is nimble with minimal cornering lean and good grip. Steering is quick and accurate. Some testers complain that the steering is a bit too quick with the suspension set in its Sport or Sport+ setting. ”Consumer Guide

“The GS is Lexus’ performance-oriented midsize sedan which is redesigned for 2013 with new Lexus design language and the Lexus spindle grille.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The new look and more sharply honed character finally makes the 2013 GS the kind of first-rate luxury-sport sedan that it could – and should – have been from day one.”KBB

“Sharper handling, new features and added interior room make the redesigned 2013 Lexus GS 350 a top contender among midsize luxury sport sedans.”Edmunds

The sleek body-side mold, a heavily powerful engine, and a commanding aura that this car evokes makes the 2013 Lexus LX one of the best luxury SUVs this year.

An all-around luxury SUV inspired by the legendary off-road monster Toyota Land Cruiser, the Lexus LX reverses every major aspect of it being an off-roader and brings an entirely new luxury experience.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury SUV	Base Price: $80,930.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 24.6 gallons (93 liters)	MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 197 in. (500.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.2 in. (285 cm)
Height: 75.6 in. (192 cm)	Width: 77.6 in. (197.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 6000 lbs	Ground Clearance: 8.9 in. (22.6 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 83.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: 5.7L V8 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.2: 1
Horsepower: 383 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 403 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Auto/ECT AWD
0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds	1/4 Mile: 15.7 seconds
Max Towing Capacity: 7000 lbs (3175 kgs)*	Maximum Speed: 138 mph (220 km/h)

Engine

The 2013 LX comes with a 383 horsepower, 5.7-liter V8 engine, capable of producing 403 pound-feet of torque at 3,600 RPM. Thanks to the intelligent system called the dual VVT-i, short to ‘Variable Valve Timing,’ which monitors the engines performance, automatically increasing torque at slower speeds and boosts performance at faster speeds by adjusting the intake and exhaust valve timing.

The durability and efficiency of the engine is optimized by the 32 valves and a chain-driven Dual Overhead Camshafts. The transmission is electronically controlled, with a sequential shift feature that mimics the feel of driving a manual transmission.

All details are noticeable like the chrome-plated door handles and the rear door’s clamshell design. Plus all this power is topped off with a very beautiful and elegant look that rightfully defines the word luxury.

Performance

The raw power of its 5.7 liter V8 engine is combined with an intelligent system that optimizes the vehicle performance regardless of speed and terrain. At high speeds, the Lexus LX improves its aerodynamic functions by lowering about 2.4 inches in front plus 1.6 inches at the back.

Likewise, when used in off-road terrain, the system automatically raises the vehicle about 2 inches in front and 2.4 inches at the back for a higher ground clearance. Additional ground clearance can be gained thru the Active Height Control function for extreme off-road situations.

With completely automated features, it’s never been easier to drive. The LX helps you drive through tight spaces with a backup camera, as well as help you drive reverse with another camera above the rear license plate. The Navigation System is displayed in full color with built-in sensors that detect how close you are with surrounding objects.

Reliability

The SUV is also built with a concern for safety. Standard safety protocols like airbags and new technology are fused altogether for the maximum possible safety. It boasts a smart access feature which allows you to use a credit card size access card to start the engine, and a dynamic radar cruise control which automatically adjusts the throttle and applies brakes to maintain a pre-set distance depending on the vehicles in front of you.

Interior

The interior is everything you would expect from a luxury SUV. Complete standard features like a navigation system, nine-speaker stereo system, Bluetooth audio streaming plus a power-closing tailgate.

It seats up to eight people spread over three rows, ventilated and heated seats that are seriously made from a chock full of high-quality materials. In addition, there is a 14-way power-adjustable, superbly comfortable and luxurious driver seat.

The interior is available with an optional Mark Levinson Surround Audio System, so music entertainment will never be a problem. The interior can also be fully customizable to what you’ll wish, but as it is it’s already overkill.

The cargo bay is around 15.5 cubic feet of space, though it can expand to around 41 cubic feet with the third row power folded. For maximum cargo space however, the second row can be tumbled manually to obtain around 83.1 cubic feet of cargo space.

The entertainment system is also linked to the navigation screen, allowing you to view and track your favorite music through the navigation panel. This makes easier personalizing your entertainment while driving.

Exterior

As for the exterior, the Lexus LX offers a whole new class of style. Its bold lines and molding gives it a powerful and refined look, matching the 10-spoke, 20-inch aluminum alloy wheels.

It has a fully automated power rear door, with controls inside as well as a dual adaptive front lighting, which help illuminates curves ahead depending on the steering input. These combined with daytime running lights and automatic headlamp washers, helping ensure a clear view of the road.

Its other features include a backup camera, a front wiper de-icer, a wide-view front and side mirror.

Since this car is meant for those who enjoy luxury, regular folks should opt for other good off-road SUVs like the Toyota Land Cruiser (MSRP $78,765; 13 city / 18 hwy). Other vehicles that the LX can be compared with include the Cadillac Escalade AWD (MSRP $66,715; 13 city / 18 hwy), Land Rover HSE (MSRP $80,275; 12 city / 18 hwy), and the Mercedes Benz GL Class (MSRP $86,175; 12 city / 17 hwy).

Even with all these features, the 2013 Lexus LX still has some disadvantages, with the primary one being it is not the most sensible SUV around, along with its expectedly high fuel consumption. But you can still gather a lot of attention by merely driving it.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Carryover performance from the 2011 model year means ample torque but hefty driving feel in the Lexus LX.”Car Connection

“The steering is too light for our tastes but is quick and has good feedback. Fairly tight turn radius aids maneuverability. This SUV exhibits stable highway feel and fairly modest cornering lean, but high build and hefty weight demand lots of slowing for tighter bends. The brakes have ample stopping control with progressive, well-weighted pedal action.”Consumer Guide

“The LX 570 is the full-size luxury SUV from Lexus that gets a new look for 2013 with the Lexus spindle grille, new LED daytime running lights to complement the new headlight design and updated taillights.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

The 2012 Lotus Evora 414E Hybrid incorporates several of Lotus’s new developments.

The car features the latest technology in long-range electric propulsion.

It also uses the very latest technology innovations in electronics to assist the driver and has a totally new roof system and brand new interior design.

Performance

The drivetrain system has been developed in-house by Lotus Engineering. The two engines have been limited to delivering 207hp and 295lb-ft of torque to each wheel. This means the car can deliver different torque levels to each wheel and leads to higher stability without sacrificing response.

Part of the design concept for the Evora 414E Hybrid is to make the transition from standard internal combustion engines to hybrids as seamless as possible. The car is fitted with a simulated paddle shift that allows for lightning-quick gear changes and helps make the car feel like a standard sports car.

When the paddle shift, which is mounted on the steering column, is used to change gears, the synthesized engine sound also changes and modulated torque is used to create the sensation of a gearshift jolt.

Braking

The system also permits simulated engine braking by allowing the driver to downshift, something that is rare in hybrid cars because of the need to use dissipated energy to recharge batteries.

The driver can therefore dictate the braking characteristics, just as in a normal car. Alternatively, this feature can be switched off for reduced driver control leading to a more relaxed driving experience.

Exterior & Interior

Visually, the 2012 Evora 414E Hybrid is very much a Lotus but with a distinctive color scheme. The interior design team has come up with a copper theme for both the exterior and the interior. The theme, inspired by the colors associated with electrical wiring, is used extensively from stripes in the seats to inserts on the instrument panels.

The battery pack can be charged overnight from a standard mains socket, and the car can travel up to 35 miles on battery power only. The standard Lotus Range Extender gas powered engine can also recharge the batteries.