A. Kahn Design begins 2012 with the launch of a new customization program for the Ferrari 458 Italia. The British tuner is known for its luxurious upgrades and their attention to detail and the upgrade packages for Ferrari 458 Italia.

An A Kahn Design upgrade package for 458 Italia includes either Rossa Corsa Red or Triple Pearl White exterior paint options, with different combinations of exterior and interior components.

Exterior

In Rossa Corsa Red, the Ferrari 458 Italia is accompanied by a matte pearl grey finish for the roof, front and rear bumpers and side skirts. The Triple Pearl White comes with a more uniform color scheme for exteriors and is well complemented by wheels and bumpers with matte pearl grey finish.

The Kahn Design 458 Italia comes with a modified suspension system, making it slightly low set and stiffer for better handling at high speeds. The vehicle also comes with a custom diffuser and painted brake calipers – red for Triple white Ferrari and yellow for Rosso Corsa Red Ferrari. A Kahn has put custom wheels in these cars, measuring 21-inches for the front and 22-inches for the rear, and they come with matte pearl grey finish.

Interior

The Rosso Corsa Red Kahn Design 458 Italia is finished with leather interiors. Some of the main features include Leather central tunnel, Leather headlining and stitching and carpets in Bordeaux, yellow rev counter, Cream Daytona lights, Electro chromatic exterior and interior mirrors.

Triple white Kahn Design 458 Italia include features like Nero leather electric seats, Leather central tunnel, yellow rev counter, leather headlining, carpets in black and stitching in white, Electro chromatic exterior and interior mirrors.

This A Kahn Design Ferrari Italia is a perfect option for those who want to distinguish themselves from the crowd with these attractive customization packages. The luxurious features and attention to detail, these customizations are a class apart.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe

Base Price: £ 165,875.00

Dimensions

Length: 178.2 in. (452.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (265 cm)
Height: 47.8 in. (121 cm)	Width: 76.3 in. (193.7 cm)
Dry Weight: 3042 lbs (1380 kg)	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 90° V8	Displacement: 4499 cc
Horsepower: 562 HP	Max RPM: 9000 RPM
Torque: 398 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm	Transmission: 7-speed Dual Clutch
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 202 mph (325 km/h)

With over 2.3 million cars sold, the Toyota Prius, the first ever commercially produced hybrid launched in 1997, is the world’s best selling hybrid car.

Its popularity is a clear endorsement of Toyota’s commitment to continuous innovation and improvement in the design of hybrid engines. Apart from being the clear favorite, the car has won several prestigious awards for Toyota, and was chosen by IntelliChoice as the best value car in its class in 2011.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Hatchback	Base Price: $24,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gallons (45 liters)	MPG: 51 city / 48 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 176.4 in. (448.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149.1 cm)	Width: 68.7 in. (174.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3042 lbs (1379 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.3 in. (13.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 21.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder DOHC w/ VVT	Displacement: 1.8 Liter
Horsepower: 98 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 105 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: ECVT
Hybrid Motor: AC Synchronous Motor	Horsepower: 80 HP

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Prius Three	MSRP: $25,565; MPG: 51 city / 48 hwy
Option:Prius Four	MSRP: $28,235; MPG: 51 city / 48 hwy
Option:Prius Five	MSRP: $29,805; MPG: 51 city / 48 hwy

The new 2012 Toyota Prius offers a choice of four different types, namely the 3rd Gen Prius, the Prius c, the Prius v and the Prius Plug-in. At present, the Plug-in version of the car is sold in just 15 states. The company plans to extend sales of the Plug-in to all states in 2013. With its breathtaking 95-mpg capability in city driving, running on principally electric power, the Plug-in looks certain to be a highly popular choice.

Performance

There are two different gas engines used in the Prius range. The Prius c is shipped with a 1.5-liter engine that will generate 73 horsepower and 82 pounds-feet of torque. The other cars have a larger 1.8-liter engine that can produce up to 134 combined horsepower.

All models are fitted with CVT (continuously variable transmission) that seamlessly switches between the electric motor and the gas engine, or takes power from both at the same time. The car’s advanced technology manages the transmission automatically. The system is so sophisticated that the Prius drives just like a standard car, with no noticeable swapping of the power source.

Fuel economy

All models in the Prius range offer outstanding fuel efficiency, with the Plug-in delivering the spectacular performance mentioned earlier. The Plug-in is also very fuel efficient in open road driving, managing a very impressive 50-mpg.

The 3rd Gen version is rated at 51/48 mpg, the Prius c at 53/46 and the v model at 44/40. The higher figures are obtainable in city driving, while the lower are those obtained on the highway. As with all hybrids, the greatest fuel efficiency is achieved in city driving, where the electric motor will be used more often.

Trims

Each one of the 2012 Toyota Prius models comes in four different trims, with the exception of the Plug-in, which is sold is just two trims. An optional package available on two of the Prius v trims offers an electrically controlled, tilt and slide moon roof and a ventilation system that works off solar powered Ventilation System.

This system ventilates the car’s interior, using an electric fan to bring in and circulate air until the temperature gets to 68 degrees. Fahrenheit. If the system is turned on when the car is empty, it reduces the inside temperature until it is close to that outside for added comfort when returning to the car.

The add-on package includes a remote air-con system and a sliding sunshade. The air-con will run for up to 3 minutes. This might not operate when the battery is low or under load.

The Toyota Prius range is an impressive lineup of hybrid cars. In terms of price, the cars are more expensive than many similar sized cars, but the potential savings on fuel should cancel out the price discrepancy.

Competition

The Prius is the top fuel efficient vehicle in its class, outranking other small hybrid vehicles such as the Honda Insight Hybrid (MSRP $19,290; 41 city / 44 hwy) and the Honda Civic Hybrid (MSRP $24,990; 44 city / 44 hwy). The Toyota Camry Hybrid (MSRP $26,660; 43 city / 39 hwy) may another vehicle worth looking at.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Toyota Prius remains the highest-mileage car offered in the U.S., and it’s a practical and capacious mid-size hatchback with room for five.”Car Connection

“On lower-line models, a soft suspension and skinny, economy-based tires allow marked cornering lean and noseplow in even moderate-speed turns. The V model’s 17-inch tires provide sharper moves and better cornering grip.”Consumer Guide

“Superior fuel economy; abundant backseat room; spacious cargo area; comfortable ride; available high-tech luxury goodies; strong safety scores.”Edmunds

“If you’re looking for the best fuel economy in the hybrid field, the 2012 Toyota Prius’ 51/48 mpg rating is still king. As some states also allow hybrid cars to waive the 2-person-per-car minimum to drive in the High Occupancy Vehicle lanes, the 2012 Toyota Prius might actually be able to speed up your commute times.”KBB

A cursory glance at motoring news over the last few months indicate that Hyundai has at last become serious in upstaging its competitors in the luxury category.

To affirm this, any car buyer just needs to look at the immensely powerful but modestly priced 2012 Hyundai Genesis.

The model upgrade has been hailed for its luxury fittings while still not hiking the price out of the reach of ordinary car buyers. With its impressive array of luxurious features, you get a car that rival Audis and Mercedes Benz, two of the auto world’s best.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Premium	Base Price: $34,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.3 gallons (72L)	MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 196.3 in. (498.6 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.6 in. (293.6 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm)	Width: 74.4 in. (188.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3824 lbs (1734 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.8L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.5: 1
Horsepower: 333 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 291 lb-ft @ 5100 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.4 seconds	1/4 Mile: 13.8 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Genesis 4.6L V8	MSRP: $44,500; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy
Option:Genesis 5.0L V8	MSRP: $45,500; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy

It is no wonder then that it ranks second out of 15 large luxury models in this class out of 40 published reviews in the industry.

Engine Performance

Performance tweaks in the engine make this the dream luxury ride with three new engine variations. The engines are 3.6 liter V6, or optional 4.6 liter and 5.0 liter V8 engines. The V6 produces 333 hp from 290 hp while the 5.0 liter offers you a mindboggling 425 Hp and 376 founds-feet of torque.

Fuel Economy

However, it still returns amazing fuel economy of 16 city/ 25 highway mpg. The Genesis R-Spec has been positively for its acceleration (60 mph run from zero in 5.1 seconds), power and transmission. All the models have an in-house 8-speed automatic transmission and you get smoother shifts.

Exterior

The design still retains the attractive grille without the ‘H’ logo but the headlamps have been redesigned with a curved LD strip bisecting the headlights cluster. The suspension is also modified and the front and rear bumpers have few tweaks that make the 2012 Hyundai Genesis appear aggressive but still retain the elegance in style.

The sculpted lines and more chiseled side skirts down the sides of the car complete the magnificence that comes with this model.

Interior

There is an abundance of soft-touch surfaces and chrome accents inside the car. All the models are fully equipped with features such as the leather wrapped dashboard, heated and cooled driver’s seat, ultra-premium perforated leather seating, iPod interface, trip computer, navigation system, 7-inch DVD touch-screen system among other additions. The leg and head room is plentiful which makes the driver and passenger savor the experience.

Safety

The Federal Government has done rollover tests which the 2012 Genesis earned five out of five stars. The Insurance Institute for High Safety (IIHS) has already earmarked the model as a top safety pick and this could have been influenced by eight air bags, electronic head constraints, anti-lock brakes and traction control.

Comparison

There is no denying that this car is in competition with large luxury sedans including the BMW 535i (MSRP $52,500; 19 city / 29 hwy), Mercedes Benz E-Class (MSRP $50,490; 20 city / 30 hwy), Lexus ES 350 (MSRP $36,725; 19 city / 28 hwy) and Audi A6 (MSRP $49,900; 19 city / 28 hwy) models. The Lincoln MKS(MSRP $41,500; 17 city / 24 hwy) is another worth comparing the Genesis to. However, it wins hands down due to its impressive price tag.

One of the main selling points of this model is the impressive range of features for its price, more power through the base V6 and V8 engines, and a luxurious interior.

However, the model is not as sporty as the looks suggest when compared with other brands in the same range. Moreover, seat adjustments are limited while steering issues crop again like in all Hyundai models. All said and done, this is a car for anyone wishing to relish luxury driving without breaking the bank.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“As Hyundai’s first true luxury sedan–outranked but not replaced by the bigger Equus–the Genesis puts premium finishes on clear display in its spacious, subdued cabin. The uninitiated might feel they’re in a Lexus or in an Infiniti, thanks to its cushy ride comfort and cabin appointments.”Car Connection

“The steering on 3.8- and 4.6-liter models is generally well weighted and precise, though some testers find it too heavy in around-town driving. The cars feel stable at speed and are well balanced in turns, but as with ride quality, they trail other premium sedans.”Consumer Guide

“Hyundai’s upscale sedan is impressive for the price, delivering virtually everything a $50,000 sedan does, but for $10,000 less.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Defying the critics, Hyundai has successfully created a line of high-end performance luxury sedans that are gaining traction with the public. A prime example is the 2012 Hyundai Genesis sedan, a powerful, well-equipped, midsize luxury 4-door sedan.”KBB

“With handsome styling, generous luxury features and engine power to match, the 2012 Hyundai Genesis takes its rightful place among established luxury sedan rivals.”Edmunds

For more than thirty years, the 2012 Ford F-150 has been considered as the most sought-after pickup truck in its category.

In recent years, further enhancements and major improvements have been incorporated in this car hence allowing it to maintain and sustain its command over the full-size pickup market.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Truck	Base Price: $23,300.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98 liters)	MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 231.9 in. (589 cm)	Wheel Base: 144.5 in. (367 cm)
Height: 75 in. (190.5 cm)	Width: 79.2 in. (201.1 cm)
Curb Weight: 5128 lbs (2326 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.9 in. (20 cm)
Cargo Volume: 55.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 3 people (reg. cab)

Performance

Engine: 3.7L V6 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 302 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic w/ OD
Max Towing Capacity: 5500 lbs (2494 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:F-150 STX	MSRP: $25,555; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:F-150 XLT	MSRP: $27,965; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:F-150 FX2	MSRP: $34,175; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:F-150 Lariat	MSRP: $35,245; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:F-150 FX4	MSRP: $37,755; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy
Option:F-150 SVT Raptor 6.2L V8	MSRP: $42,725; MPG: 11 city / 16 hwy
Option:F-150 King Ranch	MSRP: $42,750; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:F-150 Platinum	MSRP: $44,560; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:F-150 Harley Davidson 6.2L V8	MSRP: $48,955; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Some of the major and constant priorities observed by Ford when it comes to the F-150 innovations include a reliable towing system, topnotch functions, luxury features, and fuel efficiency.

With the latest 2012 F-150 model from Ford, these aforementioned priorities have been taken a notch higher hence customers are sure to get nothing less than the characteristic Ford dependability.

Engine

The Ford F-150 is fitted with 4 engine options: from a 3.7L V6 engine capable of 302 horsepower and torque of 278 lb-ft, to a 6.2L V8 with 411 hp and 434 lb-ft. Its six-speed automatic transmission has options and drivers can go for either of the rear axles.

Once not packed with a heavy load, this pickup truck can achieve 0-60 mph below 10 seconds. The rating for the EcoBoost V6’s fuel efficiency is at 22 mpg highway/16 city.

Performance

Most of the test drivers for this Ford 2012 pick-up model have responded favorably to the car’s braking and handling characteristics, giving utmost credit to its comfort level. The car is also dependable for off-road driving as well as heavy towing. The car’s engine enhancement gives it ample accelerating power.

Exterior

The 2012 Ford F-150 appears as tough as its internal mechanisms. The truck’s front end has that imposing quality, whereas the car body’s wide shoulders give out a rather strong character. The pick-up bed is deep and spacious enough to accommodate whatever it is that needs to be transported.

Interior

Both functional and comfy, the interior of this latest F-150 model from Ford comes in two styles; deluxe trim and basic trim. The deluxe trim is a more elaborate version whereas the basic trim is has the more basic details and designs.

Safety & Reliability

Both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the federal government have given this F-150 model an exemplary safety rating. Meanwhile, J.D. Power has honored this car with a high Predicted Reliability score.

Pros

Most of car critics and truck drivers have given the Ford F-150 2012 model high praise on its towing capacity. Furthermore, this pick-up truck has garnered rave reviews in terms of its comfortable and function-driven interior.

The 2012 F-150 truck is also considered as one of the most flexible and adaptable trucks in the market with its many trims, powertain, and configuration options.

Cons

This Ford model has been compared to the Ram 1500 which critics regarded as more comfortable. Although this goes without saying that truck drivers have also given the F-150 enough credit in terms of comfortable driving.

Some car critics are also double-guessing in terms of whether the base market price of this car is something buyers would find affordable.

If you are in need of a reliable and powerful truck, the 2012 Ford F-150 is something you should consider.

Competition

Pick up trucks are always popular, which is why it should come as no surprise that the Chevrolet Silverado (MSRP $27,550; 14 city / 19 hwy), Toyota Tundra (MSRP $25,155; 16 city / 20 hwy), and the Ram 1500 (MSRP $22,420; 14 city / 20 hwy), along with the F150 crowd the market with their own styling.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The F-150 made a big leap into the V-6 future, and it’s paid off, with great gas mileage; the EcoBoost six might be our favorite Ford truck engine.”Car Connection

“Like other big pickups, F-150 is ponderous. The steering is nicely boosted at low speeds with firmer action on the highway. The brakes can be touchy to modulate. Raptor’s off-road components don’t compromise its handling. It’s in off-road driving where Raptor truly shines. It can tame the most severe conditions, inspiring even novice drivers with high levels of confidence.”Consumer Guide

“The F-150’s 5.0-liter V8 and V6 turbo make the truck quick. With either powertrain, the F-150 became a bit quieter and more refined. Both engines delivered 15 mpg overall.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Holding the title of America’s best-selling pickup truck for 34 years running is no small feat, which is why the 2012 Ford F-150 pickup deserves every accolade it receives. ”KBB

“Powerful and fuel-efficient engine lineup; inviting and functional cabin; distinctive special-edition models; innovative electronics features.”Edmunds

The 2012 Ford Escape is a unique midsize crossover and Sports Utility Vehicle. The vehicle is supplied with fewer features and luxuries found in other more expensive Ford models and similar models from other manufacturers.

As a result, the car’s popularity as an ideal family SUV is slipping. Comparable vehicles like the Mitsubishi Outlander (MSRP $22,345; 23 city / 28 hwy) or the Mazda CX-7 (MSRP $22,190; 20 city / 27 hwy) deliver better performance. In the past, the Escape was noted for its roomy interior, but now cars like the Toyota Rav4 are more spacious.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Crossover	Base Price: $21,440.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66.2 liters)	MPG: 23 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.7 in. (443.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.1 in. (261.8 cm)
Height: 67.9 in. (172.4 cm)	Width: 71.1 in. (180.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3229 lbs (1465 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.4 in. (21.3 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 31.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L Duratec I-4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.7: 1
Horsepower: 171 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
Max Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs (680 kgs)*	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:XLT	MSRP: $24,870; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Limited	MSRP: $26,370; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Hybrid	MSRP: $30,570; MPG: 34 city / 31 hwy

* With towing package

Engine & Performance

The non-hybrid version of the Ford Escape is available in three trims. The entry-level model is the XLS. This is followed by the XLT and then comes the top of the range model, the Limited. A 2.5-liter, Duratec I4 engine powers each trim. For those who want a sharper performance, there is an option to purchase a 3.0-liter Duratec V6 engine.

The 2.5-liter engine can do 21 mpg in city conditions and 27 mpg on the open road. The higher performance and capacity of the 3.0-liter engine increases fuel consumption slightly, getting 19 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.

The 2.5-liter engine can generate up to 171 horsepower, which is adequate for the size of the vehicle for standard use but limits the capability in terms of pulling heavy loads. The 3.0-liter, V6 engine, which generates up to 240 horsepower, is the best option if the car is going to be used for towing.

The bigger engine is also a flexible fuel engine that can be powered by pure gas or a mixture of gas and ethanol. Since ethanol is cheaper and cleaner than gas, this gives the potential to reduce spending on fuel and at the same time have lower carbon emissions.

The XLT and Limited trims are built with a fully automatic, 6-speed transmission, while the XLS has a 5-speed manual transmission as standard. The automatic transmission is optional on the XLS, but can result in a slightly higher fuel burn.

Exterior

The Escape looks attractive, with a sleek and smart visual impact. Ford designers have used the latest technology in metal stamping to design a car that gives a very dynamic impression.

Interior

As mentioned at the outset, the 2012 Escape is not going to be a serious competitor in the luxury stakes. It does have the nice features, such as seats with leather trimming. There is little else in the interior design that stands out. The car is equipped with a combined MP3/CD player and AM/FM radio as standard features.

Safety

The 2012 Escape is equipped with Ford’s AdvanceTrac Roll Stability Control. This is a safety system that continually monitors the car’s performance, tilt, road-holding, and driver input. The system will automatically intervene to adjust power and braking when it detects the onset of a horizontal roll.

Reliability

Modern methods of car production and component testing means that dependability is pretty much a given from all established manufacturers. However, just in case something does go wrong, the new Ford Escape comes with an unlimited mileage, 5-year warranty against corrosion.

The Escape is also protected by a 5-year, 60,000 miles Roadside Assist package. The powertrain is also covered by a 5-year or 60,000 mile warranty. All other parts, except consumables like oil filters, are covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles.

More Competition

There are 3 other manufacturers that can stand toe to toe with the Escape, these are the higher priced Honda CRV (MSRP $24,595; 23 city / 31 hwy), the Jeep Liberty (MSRP $23,395; 16 city / 22 hwy), and the Toyota RAV4 (MSRP $24,350; 22 city / 28 hwy).

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Ford Escape doesn’t handle as well as more modern crossover models, but its powertrains are respectable and the Hybrid remains a tech leader.”Car Connection

“Body lean in turns is well controlled. The steering feels overboosted and numb, especially at low speeds. A tidy turning radius helps in low-speed maneuvering. The Hybrid’s braking is intermittently touchy at low speeds.”Consumer Guide

“The outgoing Escape has a roomy interior, a spacious rear seat, and good cargo space. Fit and finish is unimpressive, and the car is noisy.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“In the world of compact CUVs (Crossover Utility Vehicle) the 2012 Ford Escape stands out for a number of reasons…the 2012 Ford Escape may look like an old friend, but it’s been pretty much remade from the ground up.”KBB

“High-tech entertainment features; nifty automated parking option; hybrid model’s impressive fuel economy…Feels old compared to rivals; poor performance from rear drum brakes; non-reclining and non-sliding rear seat is difficult to fold.”Edmunds