The 2012 Ford Fusion is once again claiming victories for Ford. Since the release of the Fusion in 1996, the company has been continuously doing well in the automobile market.

They even plan to replace this year’s model with the 2013 Fusion.

Engine

The 2012 Fusion sports the traditional 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine that delivers 175 horsepower and 172 lbs/ft of torque. All Fusions have a 6-speed automatic transmission except for the S model that features 6-speeds for both the automatic and manual.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $20,705.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66 liters)	MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.6 in. (484.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.4 in. (272.8 cm)
Height: 56.8 in. (144.2 cm)	Width: 72.2 in. (183.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 3285 lbs (1490 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 16.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L I-4 DOHC	Compression Ratio: 9.7: 1
Horsepower: 175 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 175 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SE	MSRP: $22,975; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:SEL	MSRP: $25,425; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:SE V6	MSRP: $24,570; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:SEL V6	MSRP: $27,020; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:Sport 3.5L V6	MSRP: $27,225; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Hybrid	MSRP: $28,775; MPG: 41 city / 36 hwy

Engine specifications vary according to the Fusion model that you choose. The Fusion Sport has a V6, 3.5 liter engine that provides 263 horsepower and 249 lbs/ft of torque. The Fusion SE and SEL sports a 3 liter V6 engine that brings out 240 horsepower and 228 lbs/ft of torque. Front wheel drive is standard for all Fusions but you can have the optional all wheel drive for the Sport, SE and SEL.

The Fusion Hybrid comes with the basic 2.5 liter 4 cylinder engine which provides 156 horsepower and 136 lbs/ft of torque. It has an electric motor that boosts the engine power up to 191 horsepower.

Performance

The Sport trim comes with a V6 and a 3.5 liter engine, the Ford’s new Fusion brings a crisp driving experience. It is ideal for everyday use because it accelerates well for passing and the handling works great for merging traffic. The Fusion behaves well in corners and is able to keep its composure on bumpy roads. It inherits its forerunner’s reputation of being snug for a family car.

Exterior

Not much has changed as far as the exterior is concerned. In fact most drivers are more interested in the way that the Fusion drives as well as its smart interiors.

Interior

The interior for the Fusion is not the largest in its class. But it is easily noticeable that the seats are intelligently placed to make full use of its space. The seats provide good support and legroom for passengers in the rear as well as a good outward visibility and headroom for the front passengers.

The Fusion has the SYNC system which allows the driver to control entertainment functions and the climate. However, the Fusion lacks some features that are becoming a standard such as the satellite radio. Also, not all Fusions are equipped with Bluetooth.

Safety

The Fusion has MyKey, Ford’s proprietary technology that teaches safety to young drivers by limiting the car’s speed to 80 mph and the audio volume to 45%. The Fusion sends an alarm when the fuel is low and when one of the passengers forgets to wear a seatbelt.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awards the Top Safety Pick to the Fusion because it scored well in their safety tests.

Reliability

The Fusion comes with a 3-year basic warranty from bumper to bumper, a 5 year warranty for the safety restraint system and powertrain, and a 5-year corrosion perforation warrant.

Pros

The Fusion is spacious and comfortable and handles well. Its interior has adequate high tech features as well. The fuel economy is good and the car is available in front wheel and all wheel drive models.

Cons

The engine is not the most powerful in its class. The dashboard is studded with buttons and the car is not cheap.

For a small family that wants a powerful car for daily use, there is no reason not to consider the 2012 Ford Fusion.

Competition

The Toyota Camry (MSRP $22,600; 25 city / 35 hwy), Honda Accord (MSRP $22,280; 23 city / 34 hwy), and the Chevrolet Malibu (MSRP $23,470; 22 city / 33 hwy) gives the Fusion a good stiff run for the money.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The Ford Fusion now has one of the more aged designs among mid-size sedans, yet it’s readily apparent that styling remains one of the reasons the Fusion remains so popular.”Car Connection

“With manual transmission, 4-cylinder Fusions are adequate, though they struggle in steep uphill climbs. The manual transmission is pleasant to use. The 3.0 V6 doesn’t feel as strong as its 240-horsepower rating would suggest, but it still accelerates smoothly, furnishing good passing and merging power.”Consumer Guide

“Handling is balanced and predictable at its limits. A cross-traffic sensor alerts drivers to approaching traffic when reversing. IIHS crash-test results and reliability are very good.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Fusion is also one of the few mid-size sedans to offer the option of all-wheel drive, and it drives more like a sporty import than a floating domestic.”KBB

“The well-rounded 2012 Ford Fusion is one of our top picks for a midsize family sedan.”Edmunds

Honda brought a new excitement into the world of subcompact cars when it launched the 2012 Honda Fit. The new Honda Fit is intended to compete in the arena of fuel efficiency.

The Japanese car company updated the features of the new Fit by upgrading its Bluetooth system and integrating audio controls to the steering wheel.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchbook	Base Price: $15,325.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 10.6 gallons (40 liters)	MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 161.6 in. (410.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 98.4 in. (249.9 cm)
Height: 60 in. (152.4 cm)	Width: 66.7 in. (169.4 cm)
Curb Weight: 2496 lbs (1132 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 20.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: In-Line 4 SOHC	Displacement: 1497 cc
Horsepower: 117 HP	Max RPM: 6600 RPM
Torque: 106 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Fit Sport	MSRP: $17,060; MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy
Option:Fit Sport w/ Nav.	MSRP: $19,690; MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

With an enhanced sound insulation system, the new Fit is definitely quieter. Surprisingly, the interior of the Fit is quite roomy for a hatchback. Apart from being eye catching, the Fit is fun to drive which makes the new car a great choice.

Hatchbacks are usually associated with young car owners primarily because of their sporty look and nimbleness. But Honda seems to always consider the family situation. With a young family, you may not even consider a small car. But when you check out the 2012 Honda Fit, there is a great possibility that you might think twice. Apart from the spacious cabin which offers plenty of configurations, the new Fit features a Magic Seat. This lets you have additional space to haul a bike or anything that consumes a considerable amount of space. Furthermore, the rear seat can occupy three passengers.

Engine

The Honda Fit sports a 4 cylinder 1.5 liter engine that delivers 106 lbs of torque and 117 horsepower. Its finely tuned suspension makes it nifty in the urban streets. That is what makes the Fit perfect for errands and short commuting. There are flaws however, and you will most likely find them when you are going uphill.

The engine produces more noise during this situation which means that the engine could have a hard time getting you to the top. That is understandable however, because this hatchback is designed to be fuel efficient. With a 35/25 mpg highway/city rating, the Honda Fit is efficient enough.

Performance

The Fit is available in Sport and Base. A Base with an automatic transmission can go from 0 – 60 mph in 11 seconds while the Sport with a manual transmission can go 0 – 60 mph in just 9.5 seconds. The Fit comes in two transmission systems, the 5-speed manual and the 5-speed automatic that has shifting paddles mounted on the steering wheel. We have seen other subcompacts that can perform better but that does not mean the Fit is that bad in comparison. It is actually good in all respects.

Exterior

The 2012 Fit does not feature many updates when it comes to design. After all, its forerunner did fairly in the market and it seems that Honda is keeping the winning formula. The Base model has 15″ wheels while the Sport model features a bigger 16″ alloy wheels. Not much have changed, but still the Fit remains catchy to the eye.

Interior

There are noticeable differences between the interiors of the Base and the Sport model and one of them is the leather wrapped steering wheel in the Sport. The steering wheel also has shifting paddles and audio controls, things that you cannot find in the Base. The Sport model has a driver’s arm rest, two extra speakers, a touch-screen navigational system, and voice control options.

Safety

The Honda fit is given four stars by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration for overall safety. It also received four stars in side and front crash tests as well as for the rollover risk. The Fit is also a Top Safety Pick for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety for scoring “good” in roof, front, rear and side strength tests.

Reliability

The Honda Fit comes with a three-year basic bumper-to-bumper warranty and a five-year corrosion warranty. Honda is known for the longevity of their vehicles. In this respect, you cannot go wrong with the new Fit.

Pros

The new Fit offers superior outward visibility, cabin versatility and an impressive room for cargo. In the city streets, the Fit is nimble making it fun to drive.

Cons

The driver’s seat in the Honda Fit does not offer seat height adjustment. Many car owners were disappointed not to have this feature. The fuel efficiency is good but there are hatchbacks that can do better.

If you need a nimble car that you can use for short commuting and errands, that provides enough room for your family and your groceries, the 2012 Honda Fit is a great choice.

Competition

The hatchback never left, they’ve just gotten better. The Fit has been side by side compared to the Nissan Versa (MSRP $15,975; 26 city / 31 hwy), Kia Rio (MSRP $16,250; 30 city / 40 hwy), and the Yaris (MSRP $15,125; 30 city / 38 hwy) from Toyota.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Honda Fit is peppy and fun to drive, and its interior is incredibly space-efficient; but some might be turned off by its rather utilitarian look.”Car Connection

“Sport models shine here, as they exhibit sharp steering response and little body lean in turns. Base models feel only slightly soggier. Tidy exterior dimensions make all Fits highly maneuverable.”Consumer Guide

“The subcompact four-door hatchback Fit offers easy cabin access and very good visibility. It has an amazing amount of interior room and various seat-folding arrangements. While the Fit is not overly powerful, it feels responsive, with a smooth and willing engine, and agile handling.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Honda Fit is no longer the only choice for a fun-to-drive, well-rounded subcompact, but it remains the hands-down utility champ.”Edmunds

“If getting 35 miles per gallon (mpg) in a car that can fit four full-sized adults sounds like a dream come true, imagine it in a car that costs less than $16,000 and holds its value better than anything in its class. The 2012 Honda Fit 5-door subcompact can do all these things, plus is fun to drive and inexpensive to maintain.”KBB

After the marriage of Gucci and Fiat, comes another fashion house/car collaboration, Maserati and Fendi.

Popular Italian car maker, Maserati, has teamed up with the Italian fashion design company Silvia Venturini Fendi and produced a special edition of the famous GranCabrio model.

Interior

Maserati’s GranCabrio special edition is instantly recognizable due to the unique Grigio Fiamma paint job it has received. The paint job is actually 3 layers of color: two dark gray coats followed by a layer of iridescent gold.

The unique paint job isn’t the only aspect of the special edition GranCabrio to drool over, however. The effect of the Fendi/Maserati collaboration is clearly visible throughout the exterior and the interior of the GranCabrio Fendi.

Exterior

Outside the car, the sleek design of Maserati’s GranCabrio finished with the Fendi fashion house paint job says pretty much all you need to know. Inside the car, you’ll find a specially crafted logo that features the Maserati Trident, Fendi logo plus the five digit series number located in several places.

The silver oval plaque bearing the specially designed collaboration logo is found on the dashboard, near the passenger’s seat plus on each side of the folding roof. Further marking the collaboration, is the presence of the Fendi double F logo on the seats, while the Maserati Trident is featured on each of the headrests.

Fendi’s high quality leather adorns a lot of the interior, interspersed with wood trims around the doors, dashboard, gear lever and even the floor mats.

Performance

Despite all the changes that have been made to the GranCabrio’s look, the technology remains the same – you still get to experience the power of the V8 engine. The 4.7 liter engine’s 440 horsepower enables you to reach a top speed of close to 180mph.

The 2012 Maserati GranCabrio Fendi truly represents another perfect marriage between fashion house and car maker. The sleek redesign and the Maserati technology together make something that is truly unique and desirable.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.8 gallons (75 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 192 in. (488.1 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.8 in. (294.2 cm)
Height: 53 in. (135.3 cm)	Width: 75 in. (191.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4365 lbs (1980 kg)	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: V8	Displacement: 4691 cc
Horsepower: 440 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 361 lb-ft @ 4750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: 176 mph (283 km/h)

Honda has made an interesting marketing campaign for the 2012 Honda Odyssey by commissioning Judas Priest to write a song for them. It was purposefully done because the new Honda Odyssey has a brand new purpose: to serve as a vehicle for young families.

So there you have it; the rifts that can make you bang your head, the entertainment features, Bluetooth connectivity, 2GB storage capacity, a USB interface, HDMI port, and the i-MID information display.

It is easy to understand that the minivan is targeted for a younger market. But will the Honda Odyssey pass the test among more experienced car owners?

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Minivan	Base Price: $28,375.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons (79.4 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.9 in. (515.3 cm)	Wheel Base: 118.1 in. (300 cm)
Height: 68.4 in. (173.7 cm)	Width: 79.2 in. (201.2 cm)
Curb Weight: 4337 lbs (1967 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 38.4 cu ft(behind 3rd Row)	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L V6 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC®	Compression Ratio: 10.5: 1
Horsepower: 248 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Odyssey EX	MSRP: $31,625; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Odyssey EX-L	MSRP: $35,025; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Odyssey Touring	MSRP: $41,330; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Option:Odyssey Touring Elite	MSRP: $43,825; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Option:Trim	MSRP: $26145; MPG: xx city / xx hwy

Engine & Performance

The 2012 Odyssey has a 24 valve, 3.5 liter, V6 engine that brings 248 horsepower and 245 lbs/feet of torque on regular unleaded fuel. The engine for this new minivan is identical to its forerunner’s. But because innovation is the trend in the car market, Honda made some updates.

To reduce friction, Honda used honed aluminum engine blocks, a perfect match for OW-20 engine oils. There is also a new intake manifold that has two stages to enhance breathing. Last year’s engine model delivers 244 horsepower and 250 lbs/feet of torque, which means that the new minivan packs additional power and more torque.

The six cylinder engine is capable of Variable Cylinder Management (VCM). Honda has set this standard on all their trim level vehicles starting 2011. Basically, the engine starts with all cylinders working. During certain driving situations, several of the cylinders are deactivated.

In low engine speeds and during moderate speed cruising, the rear row of cylinders shut down, making an effective three-cylinder power plant. Accelerating on moderate speed shuts the right cylinder of the front bank and the left cylinder of the rear bank, and thus the engine works on four cylinders.

Furthermore, the computerized VCM closes the exhaust and intake valves of the idle cylinders and therefore eliminates losses in pumping. The spark plugs are left firing, though, to keep them hot and to prevent fouling. Ultimately, the supply of fuel needed to run the engine is cut. The 2012 Honda Odyssey needs 8.5 seconds to accelerate from 0 – 60 mph. The new Honda Odyssey comes in six-speed and 5-speed automatic transmissions.

Features

Actually, there is not much to expect for the exterior of the 2012 Odyssey because not so much has changed compared to the older model. What is exciting about the new minivan is its interior. The new Odyssey features three-point seatbelts in all seating positions, automatic pre-tensioners on the seats in the front and five child seat LATCH positions.

The entry level minivan has four child seats. Honda kept the sliding door tracks low to give enough shoulder room for average sized adult, providing superior comfort. Even a 6’2″ male can comfortably lounge at the rear row where children usually seat.

Safety features are important selling factors for minivans so Honda made sure to equip the odyssey with a pack of safety features. These features are the Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD) in ABS which is integrated into all of its wheels as well as the Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA).

To protect those who are in the front seats, there are head restraints and multiple threshold, dual stage front airbags. There are also rollover sensors and three-row, side-curtain airbags to keep the passengers inside the cabin safe. The brakes work as they should, the shifting is smooth and the torque is adequate for you to cruise around the city.

Pros

Honda has put a lot of thought on comfort, safety and fuel efficiency. The new features in the dashboard will certainly entertain younger families who used to grow up with all technological innovations.

Cons

If you are the kind of driver who gets entertainment from your car’s acceleration, you might shy away from the new Odyssey and choose a 4-cylinder turbocharged engine instead. But since the new minivan is designed to be fuel efficient, this is not a major drawback.

If you are conscientious about spending on fuel, comfort and safety for your family, the 2012 Honda Odyssey is a minivan worth considering.

Competition

The popularity of the minivan has produced many models that include the Odyssey, among them are the Chrysler Town & Country (MSRP $29,995; 17 city / 25 hwy), Nissan Quest S (MSRP $25,990; 19 city / 24 hwy), and the Toyota Sienna (MSRP $26,300; 18 city / 25 hwy).

Overall Rating
83 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Honda Odyssey is the priciest of the minivans, but innovative seating and excellent handling set it apart from all the rest.
”Car Connection

“Sporty for a minivan. Odyssey exhibits only moderate body lean in fast turns. The electrically assisted power steering feels very light at all speeds but maintains good response. Response is a bit sharper with the Touring models’ 18-inch tires.”Consumer Guide

“The Odyssey tops our minivan Ratings but is not recommended because of below-average first-year reliability.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Agile handling; fuel-efficient V6; quiet cabin; configurable second-row seat; top safety scores; easy-to-fold third-row seat. Pricier than some competitors; some desirable options and features only offered on upper trim levels; button-heavy dash.”Edmunds

“If you need a comfortable, roomy and reliable family wagon that is also slightly cool and holds it value like gold in a bear market, the 2012 Honda Odyssey is the minivan for you.”KBB

The 2012 Toyota Corolla continues Toyota’s commitment to this line of smaller and more affordable cars.

However, what’s worrying about this model and make of Corolla is that it’s rated lower in 2012 than most other cars. Indeed, according to US News, the car ranked 40 out of 41. Sources like the Kelley Blue Book were equally unimpressed with this car.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $16,890.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters)	MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180 in. (457.2 cm)	Wheel Base: 102.4 in. (260 cm)
Height: 57.5 in. (146 cm)	Width: 69.4 in. (176.3 cm)
Curb Weight: 2767 lbs (1255 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.8 in. (14.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cylinder, 16 valve DOHC	Displacement: 1.8 Liter
Horsepower: 132 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 128 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed ECT-i Automatic

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Corolla LE	MSRP: $17,910; MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy
Option:Corolla S	MSRP: $18,820; MPG: 26 city / 34 hwy

Exterior

The exterior of the new Corolla is uninspiring. Though no one would call it ugly, no one merely buy the car for its good looks. At least one reviewer called it “frumpy.” However, this wouldn’t matter if the car’s insides weren’t also uninspiring.

Interior

Because it’s so small, the Corolla isn’t comfortable for taller drivers, even though the seats can be adjusted for height. Taller passengers in the back seat might find their knees mashed into the back of the driver’s seat. Users also complain that though the steering wheel can be adjusted, it’s difficult to do so.

The Corolla also has a 12.3 cubic foot trunk, though other cars of its size, like the Hyundai Elantra, have 15 cubic feet. Reviewers not only considered the trunk too small, they also considered it badly designed. The bumper lip and the hinges on the lid make it hard to stow things properly.

The car also doesn’t have features like Bluetooth and USB port as standard equipment. Some users didn’t mind this, as it made the controls simpler for them to wok. However, some also complained that the powertrain is, despite its name, not that powerful.

Performance

The performance is lackluster and the fuel economy, in this day of high gas prices, is low. The Corolla averages about 28 miles per gallon in the city and 35 miles per gallon on the highway.

These rates are lower if the car has automatic transmission. Similar cars like the Elantra and the Chevy Cruze can get up to 40 miles per gallon on the highway. The Corolla’s 1.8 liter engine has four cylinders and 132 horsepower and the car labors when it has to go up a hill and has trouble merging and passing. It has a wildly outdated manual transmission. The Corolla is good for getting to work and back.

Trims

The 2012 Corolla comes in L, LE and S trim. The L trim now sports power windows and door locks and has a keyless, remote control entry. The LE and S have USB ports, Bluetooth and standard audio. The system is mounted on the steering wheel in the LE and S trims.

Safety

While nothing else about the Corolla fired the imagination of reviewers, the car got high marks for safety. It is considered a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. However, as of this writing it hasn’t been fully tested by the federal government. The Corolla’s basic warranty is for 36,000 miles or three years. Again, there are cars of its type that have better warranties.

Competition

There are a number of compact sedans that vie for attention against the Corolla, among them are the Honda Civic (MSRP $16,745; 28 city / 36 hwy), Nissan Sentra (MSRP $17,030; 24 city / 31 hwy), and the Hyundai Elantra (MSRP $16,120; 29 city / 40 hwy) which has the most attractive price and best mpg among these sedans.

Overall Rating
65 out of 100

What others say:

“In general, the Corolla is softly sprung and lacking a handling and ride sophistication that many rivals now have. The electric power steering is dull and overly light, and that combined with the suspension makes the Corolla feel out of sorts on a curvy road.”Car Connection

“Compared to many rivals, the Corolla is relatively conservative in design and execution, though recent updates have made available some modern features such as wireless cell-phone link and Toyota’s Entune infotainment system.”Consumer Guide

“The rather bland Corolla is a good small sedan. We got a very impressive 32 mpg overall in our test of the 1.8-liter, among the best for a current non-hybrid or diesel four-door sedan. Curtain air bags are standard.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Among newer (and better) rivals, the 2012 Toyota Corolla is no longer a class leader. In the absence of any significant improvements, we suggest checking out the competition first.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Toyota Corolla’s reputation for longevity is legendary, as is its high resale value and fuel economy figures. Yet over the years, Toyota has become complacent with the Corolla, allowing the front-wheel-drive sedan’s design to stagnate, its features to become antiquated, and its core audience to grow much older.”KBB