For those of you looking for a moderately priced compact SUV, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is an excellent choice.

This vehicle offers great driving performance with the optional V6 engine, as well as top-ranking safety features for you and your passengers. A new additional option is the third row seat available for children, so you can seat up to seven passengers and have ample cargo storage space, unlike other compact SUVs.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $22,650.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60.1 liters)	MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 181.9 in. (462 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.7 in. (265.9 cm)
Height: 66.3 in. (168.4 cm)	Width: 71.5 in. (181.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3360 lbs (1524 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.5 in. (19 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 37.2 cu ft (2nd row)	Maximum Seating: 5/7 people

Performance

Engine: 4 Cyl. DOHC w/ Dual VVT-i	Displacement: 2.5 Liter
Horsepower: 179 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed ECT-i Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs (680 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:RAV4 3.5L V6 4WD	MSRP: $26,085; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:RAV4 Sport 3.5L V6 4WD	MSRP: $27,680; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:RAV4 Limited 3.5L V6 4WD	MSRP: $28,650; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy

Performance

The standard model comes equipped with a four cylinder 2.5 liter engine that can produce up to 179 horsepower. You can upgrade the engine to a 3.5 liter V6 for towing purposes or off-road driving at 269 horsepower. Both engine options offer good fuel efficiency and even the larger V6 engine only uses slightly more fuel than the standard model.

Drivers can anticipate up to 22 miles per gallon in city traffic and up to 28 miles per gallon on the highway for the standard engine, which varies only slightly depending on whether you select the standard drivetrain of front wheel drive or four wheel drive.

The V6 engine performs efficiently, offering 19 miles per gallon in the city and up to 27 miles per gallon of the highway. If you’ll be driving on winding roads regularly, it’s a good idea to consider getting the sport model RAV4 with an enhanced sport suspension for even better handling. With these excellent performance options, the RAV4 offers larger engine options that make it stand apart from its top main competitor, the Honda CR-V.

Exterior

The exterior has the same angular front that many are familiar with, and five exterior color options of classic silver metallic, Barcelona red metallic, black, magnetic gray metallic, and super white. There are also handy roof side rails that allow extra cargo options.

Safety

The most highly rated feature of the RAV4 by some people is its overall safety. In independent government crash tests this RAV4 received four out of five stars overall and ranked a perfect five stars in side crash tests. More high ratings came from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, giving it perfect scores on both front and side crash tests.

This vehicle has standard front air bags and side air bags that protect the rear passengers, as well as other safety features common to many other Toyota vehicles, including:
– anti-lock brakes
– brake assist
– automatic smart-stop technology
– traction control
– electronically monitored brake-force distribution

Not only that, this RAV4 is further backed with a three year or 36,000 mile warranty, and a powertrain warranty of up to five years or 60,000 miles, so the reliability of this SUV is guaranteed.

Interior

The only setback on the new RAV4 is that its interior is not as refined as the Honda CR-V (MSRP $25,425; 23 city / 31 hwy). The CR-V can be little bit more expensive and offers less storage space and seating options, but its interior has been rated as slightly more comfortable and offers additional options like a USB port in the console and a rear view camera to monitor small children.

Competition

There are two other SUVs that the RAV4 may be compared to, the Chevrolet Equinox (MSRP $25,875; 22 city / 32 hwy), which has the best gas mileage, and the Ford Escape (MSRP $25,695; 22 city / 28 hwy).

In conclusion the 2012 Toyota RAV4 offers excellent value for your purchase, without compromising on safety or good driving performance.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Of all the modern compact crossover models for 2012, the Toyota RAV4 remains one of the better picks its size for daily family-hauling needs.”Car Connection

“RAV4s have responsive steering and fine straight-line stability but display some noseplow and body lean in fast, sharp turns. Sport models’ sport suspension is more adept at handling twisty roads. The brakes provide good stopping control and pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“The cabin is reasonably quiet, the ride is fairly comfortable, and fuel economy is good. Handling is agile and secure.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Spacious, comfortable and easy to drive, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 is good choice for a small-to-midsize crossover SUV, especially if you want a V6 or a usable kid-size third-row seat. Yet newer competitors are definitely worth a look.”Edmunds

“In the hotly-contested field of compact SUVs, the 2012 Toyota RAV4 reigns supreme.”KBB

The 2012 Toyota Sequoia is the largest SUV in Toyota’s catalog.

There are three models to choose from in the Sequoia range, namely the entry-level SR5, the Sequoia Limited and the Sequoia Platinum.

Each of the models can be bought in either four-wheel-drive or rear-wheel-drive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $40,930.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26.4 gallons (100 liters)	MPG: 14 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 205.1 in. (520.9 cm)	Wheel Base: 122.0 in. (309.8 cm)
Height: 77 in. (195.5 cm)	Width: 79.9 in. (202.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 5670 lbs (2571 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.9 in. (25.1cm)
Luggage Capacity: 18.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: i-Force V8 DOHC	Displacement: 4.6 Liter
Horsepower: 310 HP	Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 327 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic ECT-i

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SR5 5.7L V8 AWD	MSRP: $44,780; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy
Option:Limited 5.7L V8 4WD	MSRP: $54,265; MPG: 13 city / 17 hwy
Option:Platinum 5.7L V8 2WD	MSRP: $58,580; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Performance

The entry-level SR5 is delivered with a 32-valve, 4.6-liter engine as standard. This engine generates 310 horsepower and can produce torque of 327 pounds-feet. The other two models have a larger power plant.

These are equipped with a 5.7-liter engine that increases the horsepower to 381 and pushes the torque up to 401 pounds-feet. All models are fitted with a six-speed, fully automatic transmission.

Interior & More

The Sequoia does an excellent job at eliminating external noise, making it possible to enjoy the supplied entertainment system at a low volume setting. Each model is equipped with iPod and Bluetooth connectivity providing music via live streaming. The cars additionally have a CD and DVD player, and a satellite radio as well as a basic AM/FM radio.

The Platinum trim also comes with a navigation system displayed on a touchscreen. The system can be voice activated. This model is also supplied with a separate entertainment system for rear seat occupants. This system features a DVD player connected to a high-definition, 9-inch screen.

The navigation system’s screen is connected to a rear-mounted camera. This enables the driver to see on screen what is behind the car. Since the Sequoia is quite a tall and long car, the camera is a very useful safety aid when backing up. Both the navigation system and the passenger entertainment system are available as options with the Limited model.

The Platinum model is supplied with dynamic cruise control. The dynamic system uses radar technology to monitor the distance between the Sequoia and the vehicles in front. It will automatically slow the car down until the distance increases to a safe level. The other models are fitted with standard cruise control.

Seating

The 2012 Sequoia has three rows of seats. The driver seat has 8-way adjustment. To improve vision all round, the height can be adjusted. Passenger seating can be arranged for either seven or eight passengers. If extra cargo space is required, the third row can be folded down flat.

Front-mounted airbags are fitted to provide protection for the driver and front passenger seats. The front seats are also protected by airbags mounted in the seats as well as protective knee airbags. Side curtain airbags protect the rear-seat passengers. The seatbelts for all of the passengers come with retractors that lock automatically, a feature that is particularly useful when transporting children.

Reliability

All new 2012 Toyota Sequoia’s are sold with comprehensive warranty packages. The ToyotaCare package provides free regular servicing and breakdown assistance for two years. There are some restrictions on the usage of the SUV to obtain the free cover.

Except for parts like the oil filter that are subject to normal wear and tear, every part is covered by warranty for up to 36,000 miles or three years. The engine, powertrain and drive system have a 5-year, 60,000 miles warranty. The 2012 Toyota Sequoia also has an anti-corrosion warranty for five years with unlimited mileage.

Competition

The SUV market is swamped many contenders, those that compete closely with the Sequoia are GMC Yukon (MSRP $41,080; 15 city / 21 hwy), Chevrolet Tahoe (MSRP $39,750; 15 city / 21 hwy), and the Ford Expedition (MSRP $40,135; 14 city / 20 hwy). The specs on these vehicles are neck and neck.

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Toyota Sequoia is based on the same underpinnings as the Toyota Tundra full-size pickup, and it extends the Tundra’s macho look and serious towing and hauling prowess into a package that can also comfortably haul the family.”Car Connection

“In any Sequoia, fast turns result in marked body lean. Combined with steering that’s too light and indirect, it takes the fun out of twisty roads. Still, straight-line stability is confident, and Sequoia is composed in most every routine maneuver, with the bonus of a usefully tight turning radius and outstanding brake control.”Consumer Guide

“The big, eight-passenger Sequoia has a standard 4.6-liter V8. We got 15 mpg overall with the optional 5.7-liter V8 and six-speed automatic. Both powertrains are refined. Rear- and selectable full-time four-wheel drive are available.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Massive interior with flexible seating; serene ride; graceful handling for its size; brisk acceleration and high towing capacity with the 5.7-liter V8.”Edmunds

“If you just can’t live without the people hauling and pulling power afforded by a big, V8-powered SUV, the 2012 Toyota Sequoia SUV deserves a spot on your wish list.”KBB

The 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is one of the best SUVs available in the market.

It is ideal for taking your whole family anywhere whether it is for a road trip or soccer practice.

There’s more, and here is an in-depth view to the potential benefits, drawbacks, and overview of the Highlander.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Midsize Hybrid SUV	Base Price: $38,540.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.2 gallons (65 liters)	MPG: 28 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.8 in. (479.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.8 in. (278.8 cm)
Height: 69.3 in. (176 cm)	Width: 75.2 in. (191 cm)
Curb Weight: 4641 lbs (2105 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 42.4 cu ft-behind 2nd row	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: Hybrid 24-valve, 6 Cylinder DOHC	Displacement: 3.5 Liter
Horsepower: 280 HP	Transmission: ECVT
Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1588 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Hybrid Limited

MSRP: $44,195; MPG: 28 city / 28 hwy

Overview

Based on Toyota’s reliability and safety analysis, the Toyota Highlander Hybrid ranks 14th (of 23) among the most affordable midsize SUV. This vehicle has managed to rank high based on its great fuel economy, big and well made interior, classy exterior and powerful engine.

However, people have said that the driving experience as ‘not fun’. When of course it has decent power level to handle any kind of task, its body roll rate can be problematic when making a turn at a corner. It also provides a low level of steering feel.

These negativities can be easily justified by the cars fundamental function. Nobody expects an SUV to run at the speed and with the excitement of a sports car. What we must understand is that people who are looking for a seven seat vehicle want them as a mean for transporting the whole family simultaneously; they have no intention of joining a race event with the car.

Thanks to the hybrid’s good mileage and roomy interior, it can pretty much handle those needs perfectly. This is easily understandable that people who have reviewed the SUV as boring are used to reviewing sports cars.

Pros:

First advantage is its fuel economy. Its efficient engine build can save remarkably in proportion to its mileage. So the user is bound to save significantly during its utilization.

Second is its roomy and comfortable interior design. Its first and second rows are designed to ensure a relaxed and smooth ride. The engine provides sufficient power to get up and over the hills and traffic.

Cons:

The third row of the seats can get pretty uncomfortable if you try to fit more people than you need to.

As mentioned earlier, its driving dynamics are quite low and hardly leave any room for excitement.
The price can also be a deterrent. When of course you can save on fuel, you don’t see the savings until later in the life of the vehicle.

Versatility

So what types are more inclined to buy a hybrid? Without a doubt, people with families. The interior, ride and reliability and safe driving system is perfect for a family getaway or any other everyday ride.

When someone buys a vehicle for their family, the first thing they need to be sure of is its safety to use. So obviously, sporty people will not be satisfied with the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid.

Thanks to its positive characteristics, people looking of a seven-seat SUV are bound to be attracted to this car compared to the other options available in the market.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“The Hybrid got an impressive 27 mpg overall. Handling is not particularly agile and the steering feels vague. The easy-to-use controls and very good fit and finish make the interior pleasant.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Combining seven-passenger seating with excellent fuel economy and performance, the 2012 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a very appealing alternative to conventional crossovers.”Edmunds

The 2012 Peugeot 208 XY Concept made a successful launch at the Geneva Motor Show held in March in the super-mini section.

The 208 XY Concept is designed with city dwellers in mind. It is a compact car with an individual design and distinctive features.

Exterior

At first glance, what catches the eye is the prominent LED headlamps which are a signature concept of Peugeot 208 XY Concept.

Stylish detailing has been incorporated into the headlamps making them striking and clearly noticeable both night and day. The lamps are designed using Full-LED technology which is a novel concept in headlamps.

The main shaft of light from the headlamps is encircled by the front directional indicators and creates an impression of the new Peugeot 208 XY Concept of having irises. When the headlamps are put on full beam they appear to have catlike pupils.

The meticulous and trendy designing extends through the whole exterior. Special ‘Pulsion’ paint works at giving the car a different appearance depending on the distance and angle it is being viewed from. The transformation is magical and is made possible because of the perfect application of exactly 16 coats of special paint and lacquer.

Wing extensions are prominent on the wheel arches, which is a good thing as it gives it a striking look. Sills on the bodywork further augments the look of the car.

Plush Interior

Its interior is no less impressive as the exterior. Crimson leather trimmings cover the sides, dashboard, steering wheel, arm rests and gear lever gaiter. The glass roof has black leather trim surrounding it. Seats are dressed in light grey leather with crimson pin stripes to match the rest of the interiors.

Performance

With a 1.6 liter e-HDi engine that produces 115 hp, the Concept is a powerful machine. In addition the car is aided by a 6 speed manual gearbox which makes driving a pleasure. It is an attractive car that is bound to make heads turn where ever it goes.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Electric Hatchback

Base Price: NA

Performance

Engine: 1.6L e-HDI

Horsepower: 115 HP

The 2012 Toyota Prius V is the most useful and realistic model of all the Priuses.

It boasts not only its spacious seats and larger compartments but it is also equipped features that further minimize fuel consumption.

Interior

Toyota adds an exceptional dashboard for this latest version of the Prius which is more organized than the other models. The dashboard is divided into 2 areas: a customized instrument panel behind the steering wheel, and an information center installed at the base of the windshield.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Sedan	Base Price: $26,400.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.9 gallons (45 liters)	MPG: 44 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 181.7 in. (461.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.4 in. (277.8 cm)
Height: 62.0 in. (157.4 cm)	Width: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 3274 lbs (1485 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 34.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.5L DOHC w/ VVT-i Hybrid	Motor: Permanent Magnet AC Synchronous
Net Horsepower: 98 HP	Max RPM: NA
Torque: 153 lb-ft	Transmission: ECVT

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Prius V Three	MSRP: $27,165; MPG: 44 city / 40 hwy
Option:Prius V Five	MSRP: $29,900; MPG: 44 city / 40 hwy

The front seat is also characterized by a deep storage compartment and a large cup holder that makes up the center console while the digital gauge panel is maintained at the middle.

The back seat gives passengers more room for movement and comfort. The trunk is about 59% bigger compared to the regular Prius and can handle five passengers.

Furthermore, it has a perpendicular hatch lid and a higher roof making it easier to load large items. Even if a passenger drops the back seat or move the rear seat forward, there is still enough space for other items.

Performance

It is equipped with a pair of motor-generators that mainly uses electrical power to fire up its 1.8-liter engine. The total output of its hybrid system and engine is about 134 horsepower. Aside from this, it can go from 0 to 60 mph in less than 10 seconds.

Just like any other Prius, it drives smoothly. With its longer wheelbase and slightly wider turning circle, drivers receive a calming effect on the road that is more efficient in city driving. It has 3 modes: The Normal, Eco, and Power modes (for quicker accelerator response).

The combined EPA rating of Prius V is 42 mpg. It is expected to have an EPA outcome of 42 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. In comparison with other models that has 51/48/50 hatch, it is less, but showed an impressive gas mileage for some drivers.

Added Features

Some remarkable attributes of Prius V include: Bluetooth, LED headlamps, remote air conditioning, a navigation system, and an advanced Information Display with a Touch Tracer steering wheel commands.

The Toyota Prius V is available in three levels. The Prius V Two is the base trim that has prominent features like keyless entry and ignition, back-up camera, a stereo and Bluetooth. The Prius V Three has satellite radio, navigation and an EnTune system that can provide your smart phone with handy applications.

The top of the line Prius V five, is the only model that gives factory options which can include radar cruise control, a moonroof, an automated parking system and an exceptional stereo at added costs. Its notable features include faux leather heated seats, LED headlights, alloy wheels and a trunk lid with a SmartKey function.

Competition

The performance of the Prius V has been compared with the Ford Escape Hybrid (MSRP $31,395; 34 city / 31 hwy), Ford Fusion Hybrid (MSRP $29,570; 41 city / 36 hwy), and even the Volkswagen Jetta Sportswagen (MSRP $26,310; 30 city / 42 hwy), when it comes to fuel efficiency & price.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“The Prius V wagon may also have four doors and a liftgate, but while there’s no mistaking it for anything other than a Prius hybrid, every body panel is different from the hatchback.”Car Connection

“While not particularly sporty, Prius v has well-balanced handling with accurate steering and confident road manners. On twisty mountain roads, it’s quite fun to drive with little body lean in fast corners and minimal noseplow. Braking action is strong and swift with very natural pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“This wagon version of the Prius offers a very roomy rear seat and a generous cargo area. It’s about the size of a Mazda5 but seats just five. The extra weight and a less aerodynamic shape take a small toll on fuel economy, but the V still got an excellent 41 mpg overall in our tests. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2012 Toyota Prius V gives buyers a larger, more family-friendly alternative to the standard Prius hatchback.”Edmunds

“Roomier than anything as efficient, and more efficient than anything as roomy, the Prius V is an unbeatable option for buyers seeking the ultimate balance of fuel economy and cargo capacity.”KBB