The 2013 Mazda CX-5 got high marks from reviewers and test drivers for its handling, manual transmission and excellent fuel economy. This affordable compact SUV is also good at getting out of tight spots and is a pleasure to drive.

The one complaint was that the SUV could use a bit more power under the hood.

The CX-5 is a vehicle for those who want an affordable, responsive, and fuel efficient SUV.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $20,995.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.8 gallons (56 l)	MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 179.3 in. (455.4 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Height: 65.7 in. (166.8 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (183.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3208 lbs (1455 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.5 in. (21.6 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 34.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L DOHC 4 Cylinder	Compression Ratio: 13.0: 1
Horsepower: 155 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 150 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed SKYACTIV Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Touring	MSRP: $23,895; MPG: 26 city / 32 hwy
Option:Grand Touring	MSRP: $27,045; MPG: 26 city / 32 hwy

Engine

The 2013 CX-5 has three trims, the Sport, the Touring and the Grand Touring. All of them have a 2.0 liter, four cylinder SkyActiv gas engine that delivers 155 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 150 lbs-ft of torque. The engine is matched to a six speed manual transmission, you can also opt for a six speed automatic transmission.

Performance

Test drivers were pleasantly shocked by the CX-5’s agility. To them, it felt very much like the Mazda’s MX-5 Miata, which, after all, is a sports car. The transmission was smooth, the SUV gives the feeling that it’s raring to go, and it gets superior fuel economy.

The CX-5 delivers an impressive 26 miles per gallon in the city and 32 mile per gallon on the highway, with the all wheel drive models averaging 25 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Even better than this, according to test drivers, the CX-5’s steering is good and tight and the brakes are strong, which is unusual for a compact SUV.

Exterior

Another aspect of the SUV that received high praise was the exterior, many reviewers found it sporty and stylish.

Interior

Many found the CX-5’s front seats roomy enough, but the back seats could be cramped for three adults. The steering wheel tilts and telescopes for the driver’s comfort and the seats are cozy. They are upholstered in cloth, made of high quality.

However, reviewers found the features, even with the USB port, push button start, cruise and audio controls, optional navigation system and Bluetooth, to be underwhelming. Other rivals just has a little more than the CX-5 when it comes to features. The CX-5 offers 34.1 cubic feet for cargo when the rear seats are up and 65 cubic feet when the rear seas are folded, which makes it competitive with other SUVs of its type.

Safety

The CX-5 was a top safety pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, though the federal government hasn’t tested it as yet. Among the safety features are driver and passenger air bags, 4 wheel disc brakes, brake assist, electronic stability control and integrated turn signal mirrors.

Reliability

The Mazda CX-5 has a three year or 36,000 mile warranty, which is typical for this car. It also has a five year or 60,000 mile powertrain warranty. The driver can use the roadside assistance feature for three years or 36,000 miles, twenty-four hours a day.

Pros

Reviewers loved the way this SUV handles and its easy manual transmission. They also appreciate the cargo space. They claim the Mazda CX-5 is a really fun car to drive.

Cons

The engine, according to test drivers, could use more power and the second row of seats are too close a fit for three adults, though comfortable for two. Reviewers also found the features uninspiring.

Smaller than the CX-9, the Mazda CX-5 is the least priced and gets the best gas mileage among the others that include the Nissan Rogue (MSRP $22,310; 23 city / 28 hwy), Honda CRV (MSRP $22,495; 23 city / 31 hwy), and the RAV4 of Toyota (MSRP $22,650; 22 city / 28 hwy).

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The Mazda CX-5 is the first all-new crossover from the “zoom-zoom” company in several years.”Car Connection

“CX-5 feels more like a small car on the road than a small SUV. We mean that in the best possible sense. The Sport model lives up to its name with nicely weighted and accurate steering. Grand Tourings, especially with AWD, feel a bit heavier on their feet, but remain quite nimble and fun-to-drive. Body lean is kept in check, and any CX-5 imparts confidence on its driver. Braking action is smooth and strong.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Mazda CX-5 is Mazda’s new compact SUV, powered by Mazda’s SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine…”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 is destined to serve as a bellwether vehicle for the automaker. Introducing both the next generation of its corporate styling language and a comprehensive array of weight-saving, efficiency-enhancing Skyactiv technologies, this 5-passenger compact SUV promises an even greater level of Zoom-Zoom appeal.”KBB

“With its fuel-efficient engine, engaging driving experience and daring styling, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a good pick for those seeking a sporty yet thrifty crossover SUV.”Edmunds

The 2013 BMW M550d xDrive Touring will be premiered at the Geneva International Motor Show on March 2013.

Ultimate Performance

This car will use a 3.0 diesel engine, which can produce 381 horsepower and 740Nm of torque. In addition to that, the engine is complimented with an eight speed sport automatic transmission.

This car can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds with its top speed at 155 mph.

Exterior

The exterior of this car is created in a sporty yet elegant manner, with the inclusion of airflow optimizing design for the rear and front aprons. The 3D modeling of the front apron includes air directing flaps at the lower edge of the outer intake, which is divided horizontally by Ferric grey metallic painted bars.

The exterior mirror base, surrounding windows, and the B-pillars are trimmed with the BMW high gloss shadow. Another optional feature is the 20 inch M light alloy wheels which are also Ferric grey metallic. Other exterior features of this model includes: xenon headlights, and chrome dark exhaust tailpipes.

Interior

The M550d xDrive Touring interior is filled notable features such as the gearshift level with the M logo, BMW individual roof liner which comes in Aluminum and Anthracite Hexagonal interior trims, a leather steering wheel which has gearshift paddles and an M driver’s footrest. The seats of this car are exclusively made of the M variant Alcantara in shadow grey.

More Features

There are also many comfort and safety features which have been incorporated in this vehicle. These include: electrically operated panoramic sunroof, BMW nighttime vision with pedestrian detection, traffic lane change warning system, park distance control system, speed limit info, high-beam assistant, rain sensor and a 4 zone climate control.

Other innovative comfort and security features incorporated in the M550d xDrive Touring include BMW online and internet, hands free tailgate release, and a BMW assist service which includes emergency calling with an automatic finder.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Touring/Wagon	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.4 gallons (70 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: NA

Dimensions

Length: 193.1 in. (490.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 116.8 in. (296.8 cm)
Height: 57.5 in. (146.2 cm)	Width: 73.2 in. (186 cm)

Performance

Engine: Six Cylinder Diesel	Displacement: 3.0 Liter
Horsepower: 381 HP	Max RPM: 4000-4400 RPM
Torque: 546 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds	Maximum Speed: 155 mph (250 km/h)

The Mercedes-Benz SL series is legendary. Tracing its roots as far back as 60 years, they have long been the symbol of Mercedes Benz’s commitment to creating a sports car that combines performance, style, comfort and innovation. That is why there are high expectations for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SL500. This new generation of SL cars is more than capable of living up to expectations.

Exterior & Interior

In almost every conceivable angle, the new SL features an upgrade across the board. For the first time ever, the body is made almost purely of aluminum, allowing a savings of 140 kilograms in weight. That savings, coupled with the dynamic styling, is true to what the SL name means: Sporty and Light. Not only that, but the interior is made to be comfortable, true to the standards of this premium luxury sports car.

Performance

But of course, this car is not just about creature comforts. A new engine, dubbed the BLUE Direct by Mercedes Benz, features improved strength and fuel efficiency. The 5 liter V8 twin-turbo engine produces 429 horsepower while increasing fuel efficiency by 29 percent more than the engine found in the previous SL generation.

This is coupled with a suspension that presents a perfect balance between comfort and handling. Together with the aforementioned weight savings, the 2012 Mercedes Benz SL500 is capable of giving a superior driving experience. With this new generation of SL, this sports car legend is alive and well.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe

Base Price: € 117,096.00

Dimensions

Length: 181.5 in. (461 cm)	Width: 73.8 in. (187.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: TwinTurbo M278 V8 DOHC	Displacement: 4663 cc
Horsepower: 429 HP	Max RPM: 5250 RPM
Torque: 516 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm	Transmission: NA
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

The 2013 Peugeot 4008 was made to feed the hunger of the ever growing 4×4 SUV consumer base worldwide.

With plans in place to initially grab a foothold in countries outside of Europe, the 4008 will be released in European countries in late spring and early summer 2012.

This model has been specifically designed to meet the needs of SUV enthusiasts in every walk; and certainly will not to disappoint those consumers that want more in their all terrain vehicles than is currently offered in other makes and models.

By listening to those owners, the Peugeot 4008 should propel them into owning an increasing share of the marketplace.

Exterior

While the body is similar to many newer vehicles in the same class, the Peugeot 4008 has distinct lines, curves and options that really catch your eye when focusing on the visual details.

There is the addition of LED running lights to assist the ultra bright head lamps while the tail lamp covers are stylish and fit the appearance with perfection as they are not too large and flow with the body style.

The grill appears to be floating and there is some depth and form to the aerodynamic features that have been added to the body components making this SUV look as fast as it is elegant.

Performance

The 4008 will have an option of 4 different engines, two running on gasoline and two that are diesel. The 1.6 five speed and 2.0 six speed versions offer the same horse power in each class. The 1.6 petrol and diesel will manage about 115 H.P. while the 2.0 versions of each will output a powerful 150 H.P. for ease of use on any terrain and condition.

Extra Features

This SUV also includes a touch screen navigation system, storage for tissues, cups and bottles as well as USB ports and 12v connectors. The truth is that this vehicle offers far more than most in its class and if the opportunity is available, the Peugeot 4008 is certainly an all terrain vehicle that anyone would be proud to own.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV

Base Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 178.7 in. (454 cm)	Wheel Base: 105 in. (267 cm)
Height: 63.2 in. (160.5 cm)	Width: 83.6 in. (212.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.6L Stop & Start

Horsepower: 115 HP

The automobile industry has always been the niche of thriving businesses and corporations over the past decades. A popular brand associated with superb vehicles is Porsche. Sixty years of innovative construction of sports cars has given Porsche an edge over it competitors.

This company boasts of not just state-on-the-line design when it comes to technological advancement but also intelligent car performance. The 911 car models of Porsche showcase a variety of high-end vehicles that are not just built for performance but also for style. The 2012 Cars & Art Porsche 997 Carrera 4S is simply one of the most popular designs in this product line.

Performance

Mannheim Company Cars & Art created the 911 Carrera 4S based its design on the needs of sports car enthusiasts – speed, power, and style. 8.5×20 inch ET55 sizes with 235/30R20 tires are used in the front and 12.5×20 inch ET51 with 325/25 Dunlop Sport Maxx GT tires in the rear with the addition of OZ Racing Ultraleggera HLT-wheel rims in racing gold.

This slick finish gives the vehicle a professional yet elegant look. A tailored exhaust system with flap control is also installed which provides the best results when it comes to fuel mileage, safety, and environmental concerns. Moreover, interesting color accents create a polished look to the car’s overall design.

The industry of producing sports car has transformed a field that focuses on speed into one that incorporates sophisticated style with ground-breaking performance. This keeps collectors of Porsche continuously looking forward to new innovations and remarkable enhancements from the brand’s series of models.