The fact that only 150 of this vehicle will be produced, makes it all the more a sought after piece of art. And given the fact that it comes from a reputable company that has constantly pushed the limits in terms of speed and performance makes the 2012 Lamborghini Gallardo LP Super Trofeo Stradale one of the most anticipated cars to hit the market.

If there are vehicles which are built solely to withstand intense weather patterns and brave all sorts of terrain, then it can be said that the Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale is built to compete and race with even the fastest vehicles out there in the market, and is sure to leave them biting the dust with its features and innovations.

Performance

And not only can the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale cruise down roads on speeds which can hardly be equaled by any other vehicle, it also ensures that while zooming down roads at blinding speeds, the sound of noise and wind is perceptibly reduced. Stability is also ensured when driving this vehicle even during speeds of up to 230 kilometers per hour, as the vehicle allows its driver to be able to adjust to any kind of surface or terrain for an enhanced driving experience.

Interior

The LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale also features a minimalist but nevertheless elegant interior, with the time-tested material called Black Alcantara being primarily used, with a distinct red-stitching finishing off the simple but sleek look of the vehicle’s interior.

Prospective buyers of the Lamborghini Gallardo LP 570-4 Super Trofeo Stradale should fasten their seatbelts, because once the engine starts, it’s only a matter of time before speed records are shattered.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: NA
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.6 gallons (90 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 172.7 in. (438 cm)	Wheel Base: 100.8 in. (256 cm)
Height: 45.9 in. (116.5 cm)	Width: 74.8 in. (190 cm)
Curb Weight: 2954 lbs (1340 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA

Performance

Engine: 5.2L 40-valve DOHC V10	Displacement: 5204 cc
Horsepower: 570 HP	Max RPM: 8000 RPM
Torque: 398 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed robotized sequential e-Gear system
0-60 mph: 3.4 seconds	Maximum Speed: 198.8 mph (320 kmh)

The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer is a budget-friendly sedan that offers some sporting capabilities. Initial reviews for this car are mixed, with the Lancer getting good points for handling and front seat comfort while its poor engine performance and low-class interior set up getting severe criticisms.

New to the 2011 Lancer are the rear drum brakes, electric-assist power steering, and a brake regeneration system. Mitsubishi Fuse, a hands-free communication and interface system is also available as an option on the Lancer. Various customization packages and bundles are also offered as option even for lower models. If you prefer a better equipped Mitsubishi Lancer, opt for the Touring package.

Interior & exterior

Looking at the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer from the outside it is not difficult to be immediately drawn into its aggressive and sporty stance. However, once inside you will surely lose that initial level of enthusiasm as you carefully scrutinize the car’s interior amenities.

For one thing, the cabin design is so yesterday and boring. Couple that with the preponderance of low-budget plastic materials and you are presented with a car that you know could be better looking but simply is not.

If you are six feet tall, you might have a bit of difficulty driving the Lancer as it lacks telescoping steering wheel. The seats though are entirely different matter as they are comfortable and they give ample space for leg-room.

Since the 60/40-split seats can be folded to accommodate bigger items, it has a small 11.6 cu ft trunk. The Mitsubishi Fuse which is integrated in the car’s touchscreen navigation unit allows for a more convenient way of controlling the entertainment and communication system.

Performance

Both the DE and ES trims share a common 2.0L 4-cylinder engine producing 148hp with 146 lb-ft of torque; the GTS has a bigger 2.4L inline four that cranks 168hp with 167 lb-ft of torque.
The 2.0L and 2.4L engines come in five-speed manual transmission. The ES and DTS models may opt to upgrade to the CVT transmission.

The Ralliart has a turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder engine that puts out 237hp and 235 lb-ft of torque. All that power careens through the four wheels via shift paddle controlled automated dual-clutch manual transmission.

Performance-wise, the GTS variant went from 0 to 60 miles per hour in a mere 7.7 seconds. The base model with five-speed transmission delivers 8.8 seconds 0-60 mph acceleration and the CVT slows down a bit at 9.1 seconds.

The Ralliart proves is even faster as it zooms in from 0-60 mph in just 5.8 seconds. Fuel economy on the Lancer with a 2.0L engine is 28 mpg combined city and highway. The 2.4L engine makes about 26 mpg combined fuel economy. Expectedly, the Ralliart consumes more with only 20 mpg combined fuel economy.

On the road, the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer with the 2.0L engine gives adequate performance. The ride is fairly comfortable and road noise is minimal when inside the cabin. However, this car complains when you push it beyond normal driving conditions. You will wonder where all that engine grunt is going as it does not seem to have any remarkable effect on horsepower output. This is especially true when the base engine is mated with the CVT.

If you want a more adrenaline-filled driving experience with the Lancer, go for the GTS instead.
Or go full blast and get the Ralliart if you are not bothered by its low fuel efficiency rating.

Trims

The entry-level DE is equipped with a basic set up that includes 4-speaker MP3 and compact disc stereo, all power accessories and a trip computer. Additionally, a non-telescoping steering wheel, a rocker-sill bodywork extension, as well as 16-inch steel wheels are available.

Better amenities are offered in the ES model: air conditioning, cruise control, better upholstery, 60/40- split seats at the back, auxiliary jack, are some of these extras.

The 2011 Lancer GTS is more exciting with an upgraded engine, bigger 18-inch wheels, spoiler, climate control, front bucket seats, keyless entry and ignition, and a sport-tuned suspension system. Fuse is integrated in the car’s 6-speaker audio system with Bluetooth connectivity.

The range-topping Ralliart goes all out with all these features plus a turbocharged powerhouse with an automated dual-clutch manual transmission. Shift paddles are also thrown in as well as an AWD.

Safety & reliability

Standard safety fares are ABS, airbags, stability control and four-wheel disc brakes. The more upscale models have better safety features as standard. Crash tests for the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer result to an impressive 5-star rating for driver frontal crash protection and front-seat side protection.

The Competition

If you are not happy with the Lancer or even before you go out to buy one be sure to check these cars first for comparison. Mazda3 (MSRP $15,200; 25 city / 33 hwy) though costlier than the Lancer, consider it for its sporty looks that is ably paired with an aggressive performance. It also boasts of a more updated interior and accessories. You may also want to Try the VW Golf (MSRP $17,995; 23 city / 33 hwy) for its strong engine, cool interior and the option for a diesel engine.

Pros & Cons

The GTS and Ralliart variants all make up for the inadequacies of lower end models. The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer’s impressive exterior and good handling capability are also a plus. DE and ES models are slow, noisy, and the interior reeks of cheap plastic.

For all models the absence of telescoping steering wheel is a turn off as well as the Ralliart’s steep price tag.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer ranges from one of the cheapest basic small sedans to an Evo lookalike with top-tier connectivity technology and sound systems.”Car Connection

“The DE and ES exhibit decent grip in turns, but the steering is not especially direct or communicative. Though the brakes feel strong, nosedive is evident in quick stops. The tauter GTS is more agile and fun. ”Consumer Guide

“The Lancer is a major improvement over its dowdy predecessor, and we found it much more agile in our testing. It shares its engine with Hyundai and Chrysler, and tends to moan a bit at high revs. The CVT transmission works very well. Standard electronic stability control and curtain air bags are a plus.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer represents a sporty alternative to economy sedans, yet doesn’t deliver when it comes to refinement or fuel economy.”Edmunds

“Changes to the 2011 Mitsubishi Lancer include an increase in fuel economy across all models, the addition of the FUSE hands-free link system to the GTS and Ralliart (it’s optional on the ES), and the addition of electric-assist power steering on DE and ES models.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $15,295.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (59 liters)	MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180 in. (457 cm)	Width: 69.4 in. (176 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.7 in. (263.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 2900 lbs (4536 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L MIVEC DOHC I4	Displacement: 1998 cc
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 146 lb-ft @ 4200 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Lancer ES	MSRP: $16,695; MPG: 24 city / 33 hwy
Option:Lancer GTS	MSRP: $19,495; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:Lancer Ralliart, 237HP	MSRP: $27,695; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

In ranking the best full size pickup trucks, the 2011 GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid finds itself at number 8. The ranking was made against 7 other vehicles of different makes as well as other GM division counterparts like the GMC Sierra 1500, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500, and the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid. The latter is often called its twin.

Generally, hybrid cars are considered fuel efficient in terms of reducing carbon emissions. The concept is well-understood by the auto maker but with this advantage comes a higher price. Although it leads towards a sound purpose, the costs have sometimes turn customers away.

Performance

It is loaded with highly technical components, and critics welcome the features that the GMC Sierra 1500 Hybrid brings; however, with the reduction of utility functions like towing and hauling, many of them wonder if the price is worth it. The vehicle’s hybrid system employs a 6.0 V8 engine and two electric motors. This yields higher energy and improves performance. The fuel economy feature it has is highly applicable in city areas where slow traffic is observed.

Exterior & Interior

The hybrid is only offered in the Crew Cab style but differences in external appearance are not significant from its non-hybrid counterpart, the GMC Sierra 1500. The only main difference is the ‘hybrid’ part.

The Sierra 1500 Hybrid can accommodate five to six people. This gives an indication of the spaciousness of its interior. But even as the interior is made, the quality of the materials used is a subject of comments. The dashboard appearance is complained about by consumers with emphasis on the efficiency gauge which is found to be confusing. With most of the interior elements made of hard plastic, consumers are looking forward to an improved quality in the materials they use. Consumer and reviewers alike point out that there is expectancy for an upscale quality in proportion to the vehicle’s price tag.

The limited cargo space is also a subject of attention. Because the battery pack occupies the portion of the rear seat, it hinders the vehicle from having a flat floor even if it can be flipped up. The smaller bed space is also noticeable thereby limiting cargo capacity.

Safety & Reliability

Since the crash test model used by the federal government changed for 2011, the safety assessment result for the Sierra Hybrid is still based on 2010 testing. Frontal crash test resulted in it earning a five star. As far as the other types of safety tests are concerned, these are not yet applied on the hybrid by both the federal government and the insurance industry.

The hybrid, which was introduced in 2009, comes with a 3-year or 36,000 miles basic warranty and a 5-year or 100,000 miles powertrain warranty. A separate warranty of 8-year or 100, 000 miles is provided for the electronic parts of the hybrid system.

Pros

• Great fuel economy.
• Smooth hybrid powertrain.
• Acceleration-capable on electric power

Cons

• Expensive.
• Lower towing and hauling capacity.
• Bare interiors.
• Single body style.

The Competition

Its main competition is the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Hybrid (MSRP $38,725; 20 city / 23 hwy). It is excellent for a full size truck and fuel economy, an all-around hybrid car, spacious and comfortable interior. This hybrid comes in expensive amounts and some customers who get it trade utility in towing and hauling functions.

The Chevy Silverado 1500 Hybrid and the Sierra hybird boasts a similar towing capacity of up to 10,000 pounds, user –friendly interior features, and upgradeable amenities. However, what it offers in lesser price is taken against issues with lesser fuel efficiency, lack of airbags, acceleration, and interior storage space.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 GMC Sierra Hybrid and the very closely related Chevrolet Silverado Hybrid remain the only hybrid pickups for sale in the U.S.”Car Connection

“Being these are large pickups, there’s noticeable body lean in fast turns and quick changes of direction. The steering is nicely weighted, if a bit numb, and the brakes are responsive with fine pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“Superior city gas mileage for a big truck; can accelerate to nearly 30 mph solely on electric power.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid Pick Up	Base Price: $39,095.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 26 gallons (98 liters)	MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 229.9 in. (584 cm)	Width: 80 in. (203 cm)
Height: 73.7 in. (187 cm)	Wheel Base: 143.5 in. (364 cm)
Curb Weight: 5641 lbs (2558 kg)	Ground Clearance (rear): 12.1 in. (30.7 cm)
Payload Capacity: 1553	Maximum Seating: 6 people

Performance

Engine: Hybrid Vortec VVT V8	Displacement: 6.0 Liter
Horsepower: 332 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 367 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic
Max Trailering Capacity: 6100 lbs (2767 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Hybrid Sierra 1500 4WD

MSRP: $45,425; MPG: 20 city / 23 hwy

There are many sports cars that are being sold in the market that can reach blinding speeds in an instant, while there are also others that have sleek designs and interiors which are made from the finest materials that are guaranteed to make their prospective drivers and passengers comfortable. But there are few sports cars out there that actually ensure that their drivers would not be wasting their money on constant trips to the gas station by being fuel efficient, an aspect of vehicles that that is often overlooked in favor of speed and design.

Performance

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI promises to provide not only speed through its all-powerful engine that can satisfy any hunger for speed, but also boasts of an interior made from comfortable seats that is highly unusual for sports cars. But perhaps the feature that distinguishes the SLK 250 CDI from other sports cars that also offer fast speeds and sleek designs is that it is one of the most cost-efficient vehicles in the market in terms of its fuel consumption, which is only 4.9 liters for every 100 kilometers.

That does not mean that the speed of the 2012 SLK 250 CDI has been compromised because of its being cost-efficient, because the truth is actually the opposite. By being one of the most efficient fuel consuming vehicles, it also gives its prospective drivers immense satisfaction by providing them with an exciting driving experience.

The matter of comfort has also been taken care of in the vehicle with its comfortable seats and one of the largest luggage capacities in any Mercedes-Benz vehicle, thus proving that the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 250 CDI is indeed a car that provides everything for its drivers.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible

Base Price: $60,065.00

Performance

Engine: TurboCharged 4-cylinder Diesel	Displacement: 2100 cc
Horsepower: 204 HP	Torque: 396 lb-ft
0-60 mph: 6.7 seconds	Maximum Speed: 151 mph (243 km/h)

The Jeep Wrangler is one of the most iconic vehicles there is. A successor to the wildly successful Willys Civilian Jeep, it brings that classic Jeep look with a slightly modernized twist. Since the Wrangler was created in 1987, it has spawned 4 generations, with the latest one starting production in 2007. So does the latest edition of the Wrangler live up to the tradition?

Modifications on the 2011 and 2012 model years have made people fall in love with the Wrangler all over again. Long being considered as perhaps the most capable SUV when it comes to off-road driving, it has gained some welcome modifications. These modifications, including engine and interior upgrades, make this one of the best Wrangler models yet.

Exterior & Interior

On the exterior end of things, this looks like your typical Wrangler. This is exactly what the doctor ordered, as just about everyone likes the Wrangler’s classic yet functional styling. There are 2 trims available, the 2 door and the 4 door. And just like the original, the roof and doors can be removed. And speaking of the roof, you have a choice between a hard top and a soft top. And to top it off, regardless of variant, the aforementioned roof and doors can be removed simpler than you think.

On the inside, there is some serious upgrading going on. Now, the materials used in the Wrangler are now considerably higher end compared to the competition. But this doesn’t mean that cleaning up the interior is made difficult. The interior can withstand the elements and can be cleaned without so much effort, a must for a car such as this. The seats are wrapped in cloth as standard, but leather wrapping and heating are optional equipment.

Out front, the experience is bound to be great because the seats are comfortable. However, for those that are seated on the back, they are bound to be uncomfortable, and getting out of there is not going to be easy. A radio with AM and FM capability is mated with a CD player, USB connection, and an auxiliary jack. Optional equipment includes power doors and windows and air conditioning. As for cargo, the free space is measured at 17.2 cubic feet and 61 cubic feet with the rear seats removed. The 4 door variant has a slightly larger cargo space: 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats on and 86.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

Performance

On the performance standpoint, reviewers have said that this is the most versatile Wrangler yet. It is still as competent when doing off-road duties, but its on-road performance is much improved. The key to its improvement is the new Pentastar 3.6 liter V6 engine that it received. Maximum power is rated at 285 horsepower, which makes a world of difference compared to its predecessors.

And despite this increase in strength, fuel economy is actually improved to an average of 16 to 20 miles per gallon, an upgrade compared to past years. And even though it still lacks on-road composure (which is more than made up by its strong off-road poise), the experience is still much improved.

The Competition

There are two vehicles that could be compared to with the Wrangler, the Toyota FJ Cruiser (MSRP $27,380; 17 city / 21 hwy) and the Hummer H3 (MSRP $33,390; 14 city / 18 hwy). There are a lot to like about all three vehicles. Jeep has preserved the classic Wrangler style and off-road ability while adding a bit more on-road skill and creature comforts. However, people still find it too crude and that may lead them to look elsewhere.

In the end, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler is going to stay true to its roots for better or for worse. It may not be the most refined thing in the world, but it is great because it sticks to its strengths that made it a 60 year old institution. With a welcome dash of refinement, and it becomes one of the best Wranglers ever.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Jeep Wrangler doesn’t offer much comfort on the road, but recent improvements to quell noise and vibration go a long way to reduce fatigue.”Car Connection

“Off-road testing shows Wrangler in its best light. Its suspension design and array of traction-assisting technology subdues most obstacles.”Consumer Guide

“Though more civilized than ever, the 2012 Jeep Wrangler remains a no-nonsense American icon. Its quirky character and unique off-road abilities continue to hold appeal.”Edmunds

“The 2012 Jeep Wrangler is engineered to deliver credible off-road SUV capability. To that end, its on-road demeanor is necessarily compromised. Both its separate frame and live axles (front and rear) enhance off-road performance, while compromising on-road stability (heavier unsprung weight from live axles) and performance (heavier curb weight – typically – with a separate frame) when compared to today’s pavement-specific crossover SUVs.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $22,045.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons (70 liters)	MPG: 17 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 152.8 in. (388 cm)	Width: 73.7 in. (187 cm)
Height: 70.9 in. (180 cm)	Wheel Base: 95.4 in. (242 cm)
Curb Weight: 3760 lbs (1705 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.8 in. (22 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 17.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 24-Valve DOHC VVT V6	Displacement: 3.6 Liter
Horsepower: 285 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: X-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 9.4 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Wrangler Sport S	MSRP: $24,290; MPG: 17 city / 21 hwy
Option:Wrangler Sahara	MSRP: $27,970; MPG: 17 city / 21 hwy
Option:Wrangler Rubicon	MSRP: $29,995; MPG: 17 city / 21 hwy