The 2012 Ford Fiesta may not be considered as the best option for those who are looking for the cheapest vehicle, but given its exemplary features and stylish look, it is indeed one of the better choices for car shoppers who wish to downsize without having to sacrifice car performance and elegance.

The most noteworthy aspect of this new Ford Fiesta is that customers get to have what they have been offered. This car stays true to its claims and there is no reason to fret about faux promises. This car drives just as impressively as it looks hence customers do get an equally reliable and charming automobile.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $13,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.4 gallons (47 liters)	MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 173.6 in. (440.9.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 98 in. (248.9 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147.3 cm)	Width: 67.8 in. (172.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 2578 lbs (1169 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 12.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.6L DOHC I-4	Compression Ratio: 11:01
Horsepower: 120 HP	Max RPM: 6350 RPM
Torque: 112 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:S Hatchback	MSRP: $14,100; MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy
Option:SE Hatchback	MSRP: $15,670; MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy
Option:SES Hatchback	MSRP: $17,500; MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy
Option:SE Sedan	MSRP: $14,670; MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy
Option:SEL Sedan	MSRP: $16,600; MPG: 29 city / 39 hwy

Engine

This latest Fiesta from Ford is equipped with a 1.6L gasoline engine. With 4 inline cylinders featuring 16 valves with variable timing, this car is responsive enough, but should not be mistaken as a fitting automobile for high speeds.

Peak torque of 112 lb. ft. is reached at 5000 rpm whereas maximum horsepower of 120 was measured at 6450 rpm. This car’s engine is quite upscale for a small vehicle.

Performance

Those who have already experienced driving the Ford Fiesta 2012 model have made a favorable consensus when it comes to its performance. It is regarded as a fuel efficient automobile. Moreover the car’s easy and responsive handling, alongside its smooth acceleration and power, has been raved about by both critics and owners.

Exterior

In terms of the car’s exterior, critics have also been supportive. Among the two available exterior styles, most reviewers are more inclined toward the cute and modish hatchback which is said to have been equipped with Ford’s characteristic European panache. The exterior details are also exemplary including the front grille and the careful chrome infusion.

Interior

The 2012 Fiesta has also been praised for its spacious interior despite its inclusion in the small car category. Furthermore, the interior is evidently made of topnotch materials and the packaging is obviously chic and classy.

Safety & Reliability

This Ford Fiesta model has scored well in the crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety as well as the National Highway Traffic Safety. In terms of reliability, this car is also among the leading ones in its category. It has been given a rather exemplary reliability grade by the private firm J.D. Power.

Pros

This Fiesta is equipped with a sporty yet fuel efficient and dependable engine. It allows considerable fuel economy without sacrificing power and performance. The interior is also welcoming enough and the luxury functions truly cater to the taste and preference of discerning drivers.

Cons

When it comes to the disadvantages, some critics have noted the car’s automatic transmission as slightly quirky. Also the inadequate cargo space and the limited rear seat capacity could be a source of nuisance to some individuals.

Other noteworthy features of this car include a factory-tuned suspension, split-folding rear seat, dependable A/C, telescopic/tilt steering wheel, rear area heater outlets, and power secure locks. Starting at a little more than $13,000, the 2012 Ford Fiesta is a rather decent buy.

Competition

The Toyota Yaris (MSRP $15,140; 30 city / 35 hwy), the Nissan Versa sedan (MSRP $15,990; 30 city / 37 hwy), and the Honda Fit (MSRP $19,690; 27 city / 33 hwy) are also worth looking at side by side with the Fiesta.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“While the 2012 Ford Fiesta is the smallest car in Ford’s U.S. lineup, as well as one of the smallest cars on the market, the automaker is going against the grain in offering most of the amenities and features of a larger vehicle.”Car Connection

“Crisp turn-in, good steering and brake feel, and minimal body lean in fast corners give the Fiesta sportier moves than most cars in this class. Also aiding the cause are two features incorporated into the automated-manual transmission.”Consumer Guide

“The Fiesta subcompact sedan and hatchback are about the size of a Honda Fit. It drives nicely, with agile handling and a supple, controlled ride. Wind, road, and engine noise are well suppressed. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you’re looking for a fuel-efficient small car, but you don’t want to sacrifice the interior quality or modern features usually only found on larger, more expensive cars, the 2012 Ford Fiesta sub-compact is an easy choice.”KBB

“Sporty driving dynamics; refined yet lively engine; high fuel economy; welcoming cabin; available luxury features.”Edmunds

Ford has been a reliable and trusted name in U.S. auto production for over a century, so it’s not surprising that the 2012 Ford Taurus has already become a very popular option for those seeking out a large car that doesn’t break the bank.

The Taurus has been a favorite because of its size and the styling that comes with its performance.

In fact, over a wide range of reviews and test drives the Taurus ranks at the top.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $25,555.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19 gallons (72 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.9 in. (515.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.9 in. (286.7 cm)
Height: 60.7 in. (154.1 cm)	Width: 76.2 in. (193.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4015 lbs (1821 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 20.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.3: 1
Horsepower: 263 HP	Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 249 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Taurus SEL	MSRP: $27,755; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:Taurus Limited	MSRP: $32,155; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:Taurus SHO	MSRP: $38,155; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

Engine & Performance

Considering the size of the Taurus, the car displays very pleasing levels of performance. Acceleration is on the brisk side for a large sedan, and the car continues to display the long-standing Ford virtue of responsive and accurate handling, as well. The engine in the base Taurus models is a 3.5-liter unit which pumps out 263 horsepower.

This is good enough to haul the car’s 4,000 lb curb weight along at a pleasing pace without the car feeling strained. For the real speed freak, though, there’s the special SHO edition, which benefits from a tuned 365 horsepower unit.

Exterior

Some large cars can seem rather unexciting when seen from outside, but this Taurus is one of the better looking large sedans on the market. It has a fairly low-slung look that emphasizes the sporting credentials Ford has become known for in recent years; while its stylish creased metal look further shows off the car’s athletic feel.

It’s not absolutely perfect, because the dull side window design. That’s likely to mean that the car will appeal to slightly older buyers, but those who still appreciate a touch of style.

Interior

Once you get into the 2012 Taurus, you will realize one of the reasons that the car has become so popular. It has an impressive interior indeed, and one that rivals other cars of higher classes. There’s a little more plastic than you would expect from a true luxury sedan, but aside from that, this is a very well designed car indeed.

It is stylish, and succeeds in feeling modern without being uncomfortable. The Taurus boasts of a large trunk capacity for this class, which is a welcome for families that need the space.

Safety

The Taurus is a car that has performed well in federal safety testing, obtaining a maximum five-star rating for side impact damage, and creditable four-star scores for both front-impact and rollover events. The roof pillars are perhaps a little thick, so it might be worth considering the optional camera and sensor system for extra peace of mind.

Ford’s unique MyKey system allows parents to let their new-driver children use the car, but limit certain aspects such as maximum speed or how loud they can set the radio volume.

Reliability

Although it is obviously a little early to tell what the long term reliability of a 2012 model car will be, the early signs are good. J. D. Power has awarded this car a Predicted Reliability rating of 4.5 stars, out of a possible maximum of five.

This suggests that the Ford Taurus can be relied on, and that Ford’s recent improvement in its reliability record will likely be maintained with this model.

Competition

The Chevrolet Impala (MSRP $30,300; 18 city / 30 hwy), Toyota Avalon (MSRP $36,435; 19 city / 28 hwy), and the Chrysler 300 (MSRP $38,670; 18 city / 25 hwy) are sedans that can be compared to the Taurus. Each having a distinct quality that allow them to stand out.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Ford Taurus gets expensive if you add a lot of options, but it could look like quite the deal against luxury-brand models equipped with the same tech features.”Car Connection

“Also pleasant in standard form, non-SHO Taurus models handle most curves with confidence that belies their large exterior size. SHO ratchets the handling up a notch with neutral cornering, better-than-expected grip, and fine steering and brake control. A small turning radius helps in close-quarters maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“If you like your vehicles on the large side but you’re not into wagon-like CUVs or SUVs, the 2012 Ford Taurus will fit you like a glove. The car’s bold looks, high-tech interior and impressive performance are just icing on the cake.”KBB

“With its comfortable interior and large trunk, the 2012 Ford Taurus is an appealing reinvention of the classic full-size American sedan.”Edmunds

The 2012 Hyundai Veloster greeted the market with its sharp and bold looks.

It features smart innovations such as the three-door design, bigger trunk and lengthy warranty.

With the new Veloster, hatchback lovers have another option to look at. This vehicle provides you great value through the savings you get with the gas savings.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact	Base Price: $17,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50L)	MPG: 28 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 166.1 in. (421.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (264.9 cm)
Height: 55.1 in. (139.9 cm)	Width: 70.5 in. (179 cm)
Curb Weight: 2584 lbs (1172 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 1.6L Inline 4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.0: 1
Horsepower: 138 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.4 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16.5 seconds

Engine

The Hyundai Veloster has a 4-cylinder 1.6 liter engine that delivers 138 horsepower and 123 lbs/ft of torque which only implies one thing: the Veloster is one of the most powerful in its class. However, it is not the most fuel efficient hatchback in its segment.

According to EPA, the Veloster has a fuel efficiency rating of 40/28 mpg highway/city for the manual transmission and 38 highway/ 29 city mpg for the model equipped with the dual-clutch Eco-shift transmission.

The Eco-shift is perhaps the most amazing feature of the engine because it makes the manual transmission work like an automatic. We believe that the Eco-shift complements the power and the weight of the Veloster.

Performance

Although the 2012 Veloster offers adequate power, it does not bring much fun in driving. That is because of the very accurate steering and strong brakes. Sometimes, the overall ride quality can be harsh because of the less than stellar suspension tuning.

Nevertheless, the Veloster still has some features to like such as minimal body lean. It allows the hatchback to be nimble during fast turns in corners and curvy downhill driving. As far as performance is concerned, we can say that the Veloster is serious and precise.

Exterior

The new Veloster has a distinctive look that will put awe to those who are young at heart. It inherits the traditional fine lines and organic curves that Hyundai is known for. We can definitely say that the Veloster is attractive.

Interior

The Veloster has a fine interior compared to other cars in its class. However, it makes this hatchback more expensive in the arena of affordable small cars. But if you love to put style inside the cabin, you cannot go wrong with the Veloster.

However, the rear seat has a problem accommodating taller passengers because it lacks sufficient headroom. The rear visibility is also less impressive. Perhaps you need to get used to the Veloster’s third door that lets the rear passengers in. It is out of the box. The driver and the front passenger can get in the car with the traditional door, nevertheless.

The Veloster features a console that practically has everything you need. From infotainment and connectivity to modern devices to navigational assistance, the Veloster console can provide it for you.

Safety

The Veloster comes with the standard safety features such as anti-lock brakes (for all wheels), traction control, electronic brake force distribution, and brake assist. It has not been tested by the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety because it is new.

Reliability

It comes with a standard 5-year warranty, a 10-year limited powertrain warranty, a 7-year corrosion warranty and a 5-year 24-hour roadside assistance.

Pros

The new Veloster has attractive looks, adequate power, enough cargo space and innovative features. Without a doubt the new Veloster provides great value for your money.

Cons

There are some drawbacks though, and one of them is the poor rear visibility. Another is the low headroom that can make tall passengers feel cramped inside. The quality of ride can be harsh because of the poorly tuned suspension.

If you are looking for a stylish and powerful hatchback that handles well in the city, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster is right for you.

Competition

In this growing segment of compact cars, the Veloster is joined by the likes of the Honda CR Z (MSRP $19,695; 31 city / 37 hwy) and the Scion tC coupe (MSRP $18,575; 23 city / 31 hwy).

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Hyundai Veloster is no sports car, but it’s genuinely a sporty drive.”Car Connection

“Nicely weighted steering and sporty suspension provide a fun driving experience. Veloster corners with little body lean, inspiring confidence in fast turns. Brakes have good pedal feel. During fast, twisty downhill driving, the brakes provided fade-free stopping power.”Consumer Guide

“The Veloster is Hyundai’s new compact three-door coupe that offers the functionality of a hatchback and the convenience of a passenger-side front-hinged rear door for easier rear-seat access.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“You’ll like the Hyundai Veloster if you want a fun-to-drive, cool-looking hatchback coupe that is also practical and exceptionally fuel efficient.”KBB

“With plenty of features, laudable fuel economy and sharp looks, the 2012 Hyundai Veloster is a top pick for a fun-to-drive hatchback.”Edmunds

The 2012 Ford Super Duty is a top ranking heavy duty pickup truck that delivers the most power and the utmost comfort in its class.

A small number of people that relies on torque and towing capabilities know what they need.

They know that the Ford Super Duty can deliver.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: HD Truck	Base Price: $29,455.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 35 gallons (132 liters)	MPG: NA

Dimensions

Length: 227.6 in. (578 cm)	Wheel Base: 137 in. (347.9 cm)
Height: 79.2 in. (201.2 cm)	Width: 79.9 in. (202.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 5886 lbs (2669 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.5 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 77.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 3 people

Performance

Engine: 6.2L SOHC V8	Compression Ratio: 9.8: 1
Horsepower: 385 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 405 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed SelectShift Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 12,500 lbs (5670 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:F250 XLT	MSRP: $33,130; MPG: NA
Option:F250 Lariat	MSRP: $40,265; MPG: NA
Option:F250 King Ranch	MSRP: $47,575; MPG: NA
Option:F350 XL	MSRP: $30,555; MPG: NA
Option:F350 XLT	MSRP: $34,565; MPG: NA
Option:F350 Lariat	MSRP: $41,665; MPG: NA
Option:F350 King Ranch	MSRP: $48,745; MPG: NA
Option:F450 XL	MSRP: $49,395; MPG: NA
Option:F450 XLT	MSRP: $53,645; MPG: NA
Option:F450 Lariat	MSRP: $59,050; MPG: NA
Option:F450 King Ranch	MSRP: $64,030; MPG: NA

Engine

The Super Duty has two engine options. First is the V8 6.2 liter engine that delivers 385 horsepower and 405 lbs/ft of torque. Second is the 6.7 liter V8 turbo-diesel that brings 400 horsepower and an astounding 800 lbs/ft of torque.
These two engines are both paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission that has a manual mode to cater to your towing needs. Fuel consumption ratings for both engines are yet to be measured. But knowing Super Duty by looking at its power, we can easily understand that it gulps more fuel that can be expected.

Performance

If there is one drawback to the Super Duty, it is power. The engine is too strong for small errands and short distance travels. It is difficult to ride around town. But if you need to tow and haul heavy loads, not much should be said. The Super Duty performs this duty well.

Interior

The interior of the Super Duty is, without a doubt, user friendly. It has Ford’s proprietary technology called the Work Solutions in-dash computer which other reviewers praised for functionality.

The Super Duty also has a program called Crew Chief which lets the leader track the fleet. It has a mobile WiFi hotspot and even a printer.

Regular Cab models can seat up to three persons and the Crew Cab can accommodate five. Even beefy adults can sit comfortably in the spacious cabin. The Lariat and King Ranch models offer leather seats, and a 10 way cooled and heated adjustable seats. Although the truck is very strong, it can still provide a soft side that can suit the truck driver’s soul for long rides.

Folding the rear seats will give truck owners 58.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Behind the front row seats is the additional 39.5 cubic feet. Select models feature underseat compartments that can be locked to store valuables or hunting gears.

Safety

The weight and the price of the Super Duty prevent the authorities to crash test the truck. Nevertheless, it features all the standard safety features. It has six air bags, trailer sway control, anti lock brakes, and the SOS Post Crash Alert System.

The Super Duty also has rear view camera towing mirrors, and the rear parking assist. Also, the outward visibility is as good as it can get for a heavy duty truck.

Reliability

The Super Duty comes with a standard 3-year warranty and a 5-year powertrain warranty. The powertrain warranty for the Powerstroke diesel engine is extended to 60,000 miles.

Pros

The Super Duty has refined handling, high-tech features and adequate power.

Cons

The size of the Super Duty makes it slow when it comes to steering. The Super Duty is not suitable for small errands around town.

Verdict

Although there are other heavy duty trucks to consider, serious truck owners will never go wrong with the 2012 Ford Super Duty.

Competition

There are few heavy duty trucks that can match up with the Super Duty, they include Chevy’s Silverado 2500 (MSRP $32,205), and the GMC Sierra (MSRP $32,620); not to mention the Ram 3500 (MSRP $32,140).

Overall Rating
69 out of 100

What others say:

“Steering feel is a bit numb on center, but in general, it’s responsive enough. Handling is decent overall given these big rigs’ overall size. Naturally, close-quarters maneuverability is not a strong point, requiring drivers to carefully survey the surrounding environment before attempting any such moves.”Consumer Guide

“All the big HD trucks can tow and haul heavy loads, and the Super Duty is no exception. But, beyond its workhorse credentials the 2012 Ford Super Duty offers an impressive array of comfort and technology features aimed at maximizing efficiency on the open road and at the job site.”KBB

“Choice of many configurations and trim levels; little features and details helpful to traditional and eclectic owners; strong towing and payload capacities.”Edmunds

If you want the look and feel of an entry level luxury SUV without the big price tag, then you should check out the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz. This is a vehicle that delivers performance, style and quality for less then half the cost of a Lexus LX570.

Starting at $28,345 the Hyundai Veracruz is a great deal for anyone looking for an SUV that looks great and seats seven comfortably.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Crossover	Base Price: $28,345.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.6 gallons (80L)	MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.6 in. (484.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.4 in. (280.4 cm)
Height: 68.9 in. (175 cm)	Width: 76.6 in. (195 cm)
Curb Weight: 4266 lbs (1935 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.8L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.4: 1
Horsepower: 260 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 257 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Limited FWD	MSRP: $34,495; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy
Option:GLS AWD	MSRP: $30,245; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy
Option:Limited AWD	MSRP: $36,195; MPG: 16 city / 21 hwy

Performance

Sweet effortless power from the 3.8liter v6 aluminum block engine puts out 260 horse power and 257ft of torque. The variable valve timing synchronizes the intake and outtake valves to provide better fuel efficiency.

The Shiftronic 6 speed Automatic transmission lets you change gears on demand. It also has preset shift patterns to meet certain driving conditions such as diverse weather, uphill driving and even performance driving.

The front suspension provides coil springs and gas charged shocks while the rear suspension has a multi-link design. This insures superb handling and a quiet cabin. This contributes to the over all luxury feel of this automobile. Of course, the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz features AWD along with an engine sensing power steering that will make driving this SUV a real pleasure.

Exterior

Clean lines and 17 inch aluminum alloy wheels along with a sculpted hood line are enough to catch anyone’s eye. Add the UV windows and heated side mirrors as well as the halogen 3 beam projector style headlights and you have one gorgeous vehicle.

Interior

For a vehicle in this price bracket you would think that the glass sunroof, power tailgate, heated leather surfaced seats and telescopic and tilt steering wheel would be enough. Then you notice the superior wood grain interior accents and the Alpine navigation system mounted in the center console.

The reinforced dash panel and the electronic engine mounts contribute to a quiet, smooth ride. The expanded headroom and larger doors make getting in an out of the auto easy.

With comfortable seating for seven, the 150 cubic ft of interior is more then That of the Mercedes GL but the vehicle is still a full 10 inches shorter which provides for easier handling.

Safety

The best safety features are always the ones that help prevent an accident. Anti-lock brakes and traction control are just the beginning of the safety features you will find included with the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz.

The active front headrests that protect against whiplash and the six airbags which include the side curtain airbags that cover all the way back to the third row of seats are a major plus when it comes to safety. The Insurance Institute for highway Safety has given the Veracruz top scores in rear, front and side collision impact tests.

Reliability

The 2012 Veracruz is covered with a warranty that is better than other auto makers provide for comparable vehicles in its class. Only Kia ties the Veracruz in this area. Included is a five year/60,000 basic warranty and a 100,000 mile power train warranty. Add the five year roadside assistance and we have a winner.

Pros

The exterior stance and the spacious interior are definitely pros as are the safety ratings and reliability factors. Add the smooth comfortable ride and great performance along with the generous warranties all at a reasonable sticker price and you are going to enjoy this vehicle.

Cons

The downside would be the fuel economy which is only at 17 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.

Competition

The crossover segment has been growing, the Veracruz joins the fray that has been dominated by the likes of the Honda Pilot (MSRP $28,620; 18 city / 25 hwy), the Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy), Mazda CX 9 (MSRP $29,725; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Subaru Tribeca (MSRP $30,595; 16 city / 21 hwy).

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz loses valuable third-row and cargo space to a sloping roofline.”Car Connection

“Veracruz’s suspension tuning favors ride quality over sharp handling response. Body lean is apparent even during moderate cornering, and the steering lacks road feel. Still, Veracruz never feels unstable, even on slick roads. Brakes have adequate stopping control and pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“The seven-passenger Veracruz is essentially a stretched and more powerful Santa Fe.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Hyundai Veracruz’s ride, handling and acceleration all matched or bested the Lexus, and its interior truly is as quiet, at least at highway speeds.”KBB

“Exceptional value, a nice interior and composed ride quality make the 2012 Hyundai Veracruz a good choice for shoppers seeking a midsize crossover SUV.”Edmunds