The 2012 Toyota 4Runner is the latest iteration of the popular model being sold around the world from the mid 1980s.

As a vehicle, the Toyota 4Runner is a joy when it comes to off-road driving and excellent in terms of safety and other features, however, it does get left behind as a family SUV as one can find better choices on offer from the competition.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $31,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23 gallons (87 liters)	MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.9 in. (482.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.8 in. (278.8 cm)
Height: 71.5 in. (181.6 cm)	Width: 75.8 in. (192.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4400 lbs (1995 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.0 in. (22.8 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 47.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: V6 DOHC w/ VVT-i	Displacement: 4.0 Liter
Horsepower: 270 HP	Max RPM: 5600 RPM
Torque: 278 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed ECT-i Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 5000 lbs (2268 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SR5 4×4	MSRP: $32,830 ; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Trail 4×4	MSRP: $36,755; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy
Option:Limited 4×2	MSRP: $38,595; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Limited 4×4	MSRP: $40,630; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy

Performance

The Toyota 4Runner is an excellent choice for the off-road trails and by nature that’s where its magic lies. In terms of SUVs it is one of the best available for anyone looking for adventure on the high roads or even where there are no roads. It is loaded with features and gadgets that make off-road adventures a lot of fun and difficult trails easy to conquer.

Exterior

It gets its styling from the Toyota FJ Cruiser and continues with the boxy and rugged appearance it has had over the years.

Interior

It is extremely spacious and highly functional being packed with features. Seating is comfortable in the first 2 rows but somewhat cramped in the 3rd row for adults. Cargo space is spacious and large for off the road and trail duties but is average when compared to mid-sized SUVs and crossovers.

It has lots of space in the interior that lets you carry all the luggage and gear that you desire and it comes with an optional suspension that lets you drive on tracks and trails that are simply off the norm.

Unfortunately, the features that make the Toyota 4Runner an excellent off-road companion make it somewhat of a cumbersome drive on the road and in the city especially when stacked against some of the competition.

It is somewhat cramped in the 3rd row especially for the adults and also when the 3rd row is used to seat passengers it reduces the cargo space. Also, the suspension makes the drive somewhat uncomfortable when driving through the city though it is a winner off the road.

Safety & Reliability

It is extremely safe and has received good ratings for safety in the event of frontal, rear or side crashes. In terms of a roof accident it has been rated acceptably safe. It comes with 8 airbags, rear sensors for parking and assisted driving for going uphill or downhill.

Other safety features are comparable to similar SUVs and industry standards. In terms of reliability, the Toyota 4Runner comes with a 3-year warranty that covers 36,000 miles which is comparable to other similarly priced SUVs and current industry standards.

Ideal

The Toyota 4Runner is an excellent choice for hitting the trail and for driving off the road. This SUV is primarily for adventure seekers who prefer to drive off the road and visit remote locations. When compared to other brands of SUVs it is particularly better rated and the preferred choice for off the road driving.

However, it is not ideally suited for city driving and hence your decision on purchasing the Toyota 4Runner will depend a lot on its intended usage. For camping trails and adventure driving the Toyota 4Runner is the preferred choice but it comes second to a crossover for daily driving within the city limits.

The Toyota 4Runner is perfectly suited for the trail without roads or even pavements and especially remote and difficult terrain. It is however not an ideal choice for going to the office, dropping the kids off, going to the supermarket for shopping, or even highway long distance driving.

Competition

SUVs that can be compared to the 4Runner include the Nissan Pathfinder (MSRP $29,765; 15 city / 22 hwy), Ford Explorer (MSRP $32,920; 18 city / 25 hwy), and the Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $31,510; 17 city / 23 hwy). Each of these vehicles are exceptional, it is just a matter of personal preference and what you’re looking for in an SUV.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“Cargo space isn’t all that impressive, but the 2012 Toyota 4Runner has good passenger space and a high-quality cabin.”Car Connection

“Handling is disappointing, even for a vehicle of this stripe. Body lean is prevalent, even in modest corners. The steering feels sloppy, and nosedive is pronounced, even when braking normally.”Consumer Guide

“The 4Runner is good for towing and off-roading, but is not the best family vehicle. The rough-sounding 4.0-liter V6 is powerful and relatively fuel-efficient. The ride is unsettled and handling is mediocre at best. A ‘Trail’ version is meant for serious off-road use. The 4WD system is a rudimentary part-time system, unless you upgrade to the Limited trim.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Outstanding off-road capability; pleasant on-road demeanor; strong V6 engine; ample cargo capacity; available third-row seat.”Edmunds

“If you are looking for an SUV that serves dual purposes – family commuter during the week and an off-road-capable hauling vehicle on the weekend – then add the 2012 Toyota 4Runner to your short list.”KBB

Bugatti has launched a special edition Veyron Grand Sport at the Qatar motor show in January 2012.

This special edition is a convertible and is no doubt the fastest convertible produced in the world with a top speed of 253 mph (407km/h) with speeds up to 217 mph (350km/h) achieved without the roof.

The Veyron Grand Sport features a catchy yellow and black theme for its exterior. This edition of the Grand Sport is the last of the Veyron’s to be built.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SuperCar	Base Price: € 1,580,000.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.6 in. (271 cm)
Height: 47.4 in. (120.4 cm)	Width: 78.6 in. (199.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 4387 lbs (1990 kg)	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: W16 Quad Turbo	Displacement: 8.0 Liter
Horsepower: 1200 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 1106 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic DSG
0-60 mph: 2.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 252.9 mph (407 km/h)

Exterior & Interior

The man behind Bugatti, Ettore Bugatti has always experimented with different color schemes and materials for his extreme cars. He has always preferred painting his cars in two color combinations. The Veyron Grand Sport is no exception and is colored in yellow and black. This interesting combination of yellow and black color is said to be one his all time favorite.

The two colors are split horizontally, with bright yellow covering the top part of the car with black carbon underneath it. The yellow and black theme is not only limited to exteriors, but also runs into the interiors with seats finished in yellow leather and black stitching.

The central console is colored in carbon black. The dashboard, gearshift and steering wheels are covered with black leather and yellow stitching.

Performance

Veyron Grand Sport’s internal largely remains the same. The car is powered by the quad-turbocharged 8-litre W-16 engine which churns out whopping 1001-horsepower. The car can do 0 to 60 in 2.7 seconds.

Limited

The Veyron Grand Sport model would cost $2.05 million, which is more than 10% premium over the out of production original Veyron. The incremental changes are only cosmetic but the one planning to buy this car won’t complain about the difference in price.

It’s a limited edition and the company has decided to produce only 150 units of Grand Sport out of which nearly 2/3 slots are still available.

The 2012 Sonata is Hyundai latest entry into the highly competitive Affordable Midsize Car market, with a price that starts at around $20,000.

It has a difficult task, going up against challengers from much larger companies such as Toyota and Honda. The 2012 Hyundai Sonata has been a popular alternative.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $19,795.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70L)	MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.8 in. (482 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.0 in. (279.4 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 72.2 in. (183.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 3199 lbs (1451 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L 4 Cylinder DOHC	Compression Ratio: 11.3: 1
Horsepower: 198 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 184 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:GLS PZEV	MSRP: $20,795; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:SE	MSRP: $23,195; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:Limited	MSRP: $26,445; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy
Option:Limited PZEV	MSRP: $26,445; MPG: 24 city / 35 hwy

Engine

The Sonata’s engine is available only in four-cylinder, albeit with both 284-horsepower turbocharged and 198-horsepower naturally aspirated versions available. Many of its rivals also come in six-cylinder variants, so Hyundai’s failure to offer this option may count against it in the eyes of buyers who are looking for the cachet extra cylinders can bring.

Performance

However, the Sonata does boast excellent fuel economy figures – in fact, it is the best gas-powered car in this segment in that regard, with the base model returning 24 mph in town and 35 mpg on the open road. While a manual transmission is available, almost all cars sold are expected to be six-speed automatics.

Exterior

Hyundai cars have sometimes been criticized for their unexciting styling, but the 2012 Sonata does not suffer from this problem. Most drivers have reported finding the car’s looks appealing and even enticing, with smooth, flowing lines that are said to bring to mind those of a more expensive luxury coupe.

There is an argument that the Sonata looks less impressive up close and personal than it does when sweeping past on the interstate, but few reviewers dislike it entirely, and some even rate its aesthetics as “sophisticated.”

Interior

Only cloth trim is offered as standard on this car’s seats, and it is expected that a large number of buyers will elect to upgrade to the much more attractive leather seats. The front seats in particular have come in for some criticism for being a little cramped, too.

Otherwise, there is not a lot for drivers to complain about, with plenty of equipment – including an iPod jack – being fitted as standard, and a calm and classy atmosphere inside the cabin. The Sonata is beaten for trunk space only by the Ford Fusion, and then only by 0.1 cu ft.

Safety

Hyundai’s efforts in the direction of improving safety with this car have been rated a success by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, which calls the 2012 Sonata a “Top Safety Pick” – it manages the highest possible score in all the categories tested. Government testing gives the car a mixture of four-star and five-star ratings.

A range of safety features is available as standard, including traction control and anti-lock brakes for all four wheels. There are six airbags, which is average for the Affordable Midsize class.

Reliability

The Predicted Reliability Rating by J. D. Power for the Hyundai is 3.5 stars out of a possible five, a respectable score but not a class-leading one. Overall mechanical quality is the greatest concern, with a score of only 2.5 stars in this category.

Warranty coverage is on a par with rivals such as the Mitsubishi Galant – five years or 60,000 miles of overall cover, as well as breakdown assistance for the same period but with no mileage limit. Perforation corrosion is warranted against for ten years or 100,000 miles.

Competition

The Sonata joins the Toyota Camry L (MSRP $22,055; 25 city / 35 hwy), the Honda Accord LX (MSRP $21,480; 23 city / 34 hwy), and the Chevy Malibu LS (MSRP $22,110; 22 city / 33 hwy) in this widely popular market segment.

Overall Rating
83 out of 100

What others say:

“ The 2012 Hyundai Sonata accelerates strongly and smoothly in most guises, but its steering has plenty of room for improvement.”Car Connection

“ Slightly more aggressive moves on twisting roads are handled with little drama. Others find Sonata not exceptionally agile, with numb steering that betrays the sporty feel Hyundai is trying to impart.”Consumer Guide

“ The Sonata is Hyundai’s entry in the competitive midsize sedan segment that was all-new for 2011 with dramatic new styling and a highly-efficient powertrain.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“ If ever there was a car that proved that if you build it well, they will come (and buy it), it’s the 2012 Hyundai Sonata.”KBB

“Lots of standard and optional features for the money; stylish and comfortable cabin; strong acceleration; top fuel economy; excellent safety scores; lengthy warranty.”Edmunds

The 2012 Honda Pilot arrives with revisions. The new pilot is one of the best SUV in the mid-size category. Many think that the truck-shaped SUVs have gone out of favor, but the fact is that they are the best choice when it comes to everyday economic uses.

The new grille in the front has changed the whole face of this vehicle. The softened edges have given it a more fashionable look. The new Honda Pilot has a more space in its interior for making a comfortable trip for the whole family.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $28,620.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.4 in. (486.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.2 in. (277.3 cm)
Height: 70.7 in. (179.5 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 4299 lbs (1950 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.0 in. (20.3 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18.0 cu ft(Behind 3rd Row)	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: V6 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC®	Displacement: 3471 cc
Horsepower: 250 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 253 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs 2WD (907 kgs)	Max Towing Capacity: 4500 lbs 4WD (2041 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Pilot LX 4WD	MSRP: $30,220; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Pilot EX 2WD	MSRP: $31,470; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:Pilot EX 4WD	MSRP: $33,070; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Pilot EX-L 2WD	MSRP: $34,720; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:Pilot EX-L 4WD	MSRP: $36,320; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Pilot Touring 2WD	MSRP: $39,370; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy
Option:Pilot Touring 4WD	MSRP: $40,970; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Performance

The three trim levels of the Pilot are the LX, EX, and the top EX-L. The LX models are of two types, the front wheel drive and four wheel drive models. Both are powered by a V6 3.5L/212 gasoline engine. It produces a power of 250 Hp with a torque of 253 Pounds per foot. The EX models also come with front wheel and four wheel drives. The EX-L model comes with touring equipment and rear entertainment console with DVD players. All models are powered by the same V6 engine.

Interior

The Honda Pilot is an eight-sweater SUV with cloth upholstery. The seats are arranged in three rows. The second row bench seat is foldable. The third row seat is foldable to form a flat surface. The large cabin of this vehicle is liked by all. Behind the third row, there is a decent cargo space.

The EX comes with a ten-way power adjustable driver’s seat. The EX-L comes with four-way adjustable passenger seats. The front seats are heated and all the seats are covered in leather upholstery in EX-L. Adequate leg rooms are available in all three trim levels.

The interior is pretty standard for its class. There is a standard front and rear separate climate control. The steering is equipped with tilt and telescopic adjustments. There is an audio system with seven speakers.

The DVD system with a ten speaker system is an attractive feature in EX-L model. The cargo volume available in this vehicle is about 18 foot3. This space easily increased to 47.7 cu ft and 87 cu ft when the third and second row seats are folded respectively.

Power & Handling

The V6 engine with a five-speed automatic transmission gives us a smooth ride on all kinds of roads. This vehicle can tow nearly 4,500 pounds in four-wheel drive, which is comparatively lower than many other vehicles which are in the same crossover class. It has a mileage of 18 mpg in city and 25 hwy. These numbers show that Honda Pilot is one of the most fuel efficient cars in its class.

The handling of the vehicle is pretty comfortable. There is a significant body lean while cornering or making any hard breaking. The four-wheel drive is pretty much of average capability. They are good to travel in mud, gravel, and snow; but cannot make true off road performance like hill climbing. It has antilock breaking system which gives a typical performance.

Safety

The federal government safety rating for Honda Pilot is four out of five. This vehicle scores a high rating of “good” in the tests conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway safety. There is front, front-side and side-curtain airbags for all three seats of this vehicle. There is break assistance and antilock breaking system.

There are options to connect child seat in all seats of the second row and one seat in the third row. There is a rear view camera in EX-L model. The display of this camera shows up in the rearview mirror. This is a good additional option because the rear-visibility is pretty low.

This is a suitable vehicle for a family that enjoys the outdoors. There are no sporty features, but comes with pretty standard economy features. The mileage is the economy range. The power output is not at par with that of other crossover.

This SUV is not sluggish, but test drivers say that the car is a little slower than other crossovers. Another defect is that the seats are not ventilated, which is common for all other cars in its class.

Reliability

There is a three year/36,000 miles warranty on the vehicle and a five year/ 60,000 miles warranty on its power-train.

Competition

The Pilot is Honda’s response to the Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $26,995; 17 city / 23 hwy), Ford Explorer (MSRP $28,870; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“Don’t let the macho-boxy look intimidate you; the Honda Pilot makes a lot of sense for large families—especially with improved mileage and a most tasteful front-end design for 2012.”Car Connection

“Generally car-like driving feel, with fine low-speed maneuverability and city-friendly turning radius. The tires’ tall sidewalls contribute to slightly lazy steering response in quick changes of direction. Pilot’s high center of gravity means fair body lean in sharp turns, but no undue noseplow. The 2WD models too easily spin their front tires in rapid acceleration from a stop and are prone to modest torque steer. AWD models are better mannered in this regard and also cope easily with mild off-road trails. Braking is strong and stable, though simulated panic stops generate noticeable nosedive.”Consumer Guide

“We found the six-cylinder engine and five-speed automatic to be smooth and refined, but acceleration is not that quick. In our tests we got 18 mpg overall. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Though the 2012 Honda Pilot boasts strong fuel economy and roomy accommodations, it’s outpaced by more well-rounded choices.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Honda Pilot SUV nails the right combination of size, power, ability and value. Not as gargantuan as the Chevy Tahoe or Suburban, the Pilot can still accommodate eight people, has plenty of room for cargo and gets reasonably good gas mileage for its size.”KBB

In celebration of its 100th anniversary, Chevrolet launched the 2012 Corvette Centennial Edition Z06, which comes in a special Centennial Edition package.

The major changes in the 2012 Centennial Edition are almost purely cosmetic while most of the driving dynamics remain the same.

Exterior & Interior

The major changes in the 2012 Centennial Edition Z06 are more cosmetic which makes this Z06 strikingly different. The new Z06 gets the Centennial Edition package that includes exclusive Carbon Flash Metallic exteriors, car graphics in satin black color and characteristic Centennial wheels in Satin Black with Red outline and Red colored brake calipers.

Special badges including images of Louis Chevrolet have been placed at the B-pillar, Steering Wheel and Wheel Centre caps.

The wheels of the Centennial Z06 have been specially built with light weight Aluminum. The front wheels get 19-inch alloys while the rear wheels get 20-inch. The Michelin Pilot Sport Cup tires have been used in the 2012 Z06, and these have been a significant performance enhancer for the car.

The black color scheme runs in the interiors as well. The instrument panel, doors, seats and gear-shift knob are wrapped with black leather with red stitching.

The car features racing inspired powertrain and suspension. Also, the car has been designed to reduce the overall weight by use of Aluminum frame and Carbon Fiber components.

Engine Performance

The Corvette Centennial Edition Z06 is fitted with a 7-litre V8 engine producing 505 horsepower. The car does the 0-60 mph sprint in 3.8 seconds and runs the quarter mile in about 11.9 seconds, a tad slower than some of its contemporaries like the Ferrari 458 Italia, Nissan GT-R and Porsche 911 GT3 RS, though the Z06 is much cheaper than these cars.

This special edition can attain a top speed of 198 mph.

The 2012 Chevrolet Centennial Edition Corvette Z06 is a perfect fit to celebrate the racing and performance heritage of Chevrolet. It’s also a great tribute to Louis Chevrolet.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 15 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 175.6 in. (446 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268 cm)
Height: 48.7 in. (124 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 22.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: LS7 V8	Displacement: 7.0 Liter
Horsepower: 505 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 470 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 198 mph