In its heyday the Mitsubishi Galant wanted to betray its Japanese roots by aiming to become something like a European family sedan. Whether it was successful in accomplishing that goal is subject to anyone’s opinion but this year Mitsubishi hopes to reaffirm its presence in the midsize sedan market by launching the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant.

Features on the 2011 Galant are bundled for the top of the line SE variant. These include rear view mirrors that dim automatically, vanity mirrors with illumination, as well as a powered sunroof. A garage door opener that can be programmed is also thrown in as standard while leather upholstery, half-inch lowering, and a chrome beltline accent are offered as options.

Interior & exterior

The interior trims and accessories reflect the stubborn nature of this car to stick to designs which might have been cool some years ago but are just boring and unimpressive by today’s standards.

For instance, the silver accents on the control cluster remind one of what was the trend five years ago. Control for the stereo and climate adjustments look very dated and worse are hard to read sometimes.

Gripes for the interior don’t stop there as it is further plagued with issues like the use of low-class materials that simply don’t come near the level of sophistication and refinement being offered by some of its competitors.

Additionally, why Mitsubishi has omitted a telescoping steering wheel when this is fairly standard in its class is a mystery.

The interior is surprisingly roomy even with its size. Driver and passenger seating are also nice and comfortable. Trunk storage is decent, and its wide opening makes stowing baggage easier. Seats at the back can’t be folded down to make more room for stuffs you have so again this is a minus.

Performance

All the 2011 models have a 2.4L four cylinder engine that produces 160hp power and 157 lb-ft of torque. Fuel consumption is 24 mpg for combined city and highway driving.

The fact that Mitsubishi does not offer a V6 engine for the Galant should not be an issue as most players in the midsize sedan market are sold with a four-cylinder engine anyway. However, Mitsubishi’s engine yields 160 hp which is 15-40 horses shy when compared with some of its competitors that also sport a four-cylinder engine.

On top of that, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant has a 4-speed auto transmission when players like Kia, Honda and Ford offer five-speed, even six-speed transmissions.
This limitation is evident in the Galant’s paltry performance and fuel economy. On the road, the Galant struggles to pull its 3,400 weight. However, when it starts going the drive is smooth and responsive which is very ideal for daily commutes.

Trims

There are two trim variants: ES and SE.

The entry level midsize sedan ES boasts of 16-inch steel wheels, 6-speaker audio system with an auxiliary jack, air conditioning, all power controls, height adjustable driver seat, and a tilt-capable steering wheel.

The star is actually the SE as it has more impressive amenities like a reverse camera, premium Rockford Acoustic Design audio system that features LCD screen, Bluetooth interface, 8 speakers and 6-disc CD changer. Automatic climate control, steering wheel clad in leather, heated driver seat that can be power adjusted in 8 ways, rear view mirrors that dim automatically, and vanity mirrors with two illumination are thrown in as standards as well.

Safety & reliability

Safety features include ABS, side curtain and front side airbags, and stability control. The Galant received a “Good: rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Warranty coverage for the Galant is one of the best in the industry: five years or 60,000 miles as basic and extended 10 years or 100,000 miles for the powertrain.

Competition

Before buying the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant consider other midsize sedans in the market such as the Ford Fusion (MSRP $19,850; 22 city / 32 hwy) costs less while still providing better interior and performance; the Hyundai Sonata (MSRP $19,695; 24 city / 35 hwy) may be an even better option as it has a more comfortable and updated interior. Plus the extra warranty that you have to pay Mitsubishi for is thrown in as standard.

You can also look at the Honda Accord (MSRP $21,380; 23 city / 34 hwy), Kia Optima (MSRP $18,995; 24 city / 35 hwy), Nissan Altima (MSRP $20,410; 23 city / 32 hwy), Suzuki Kizashi (MSRP $18,999; 21 city / 31 hwy), and Mazda 6 (MSRP $20,240; 21 city / 30 hwy) for a wider choice.

Pros & Cons

All in all, the SE variant may be the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant’s saving grace for the more attractive options it offers. Generally, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant maintains a good balance between handling and ride.

The biggest flack for the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant is its underpowered engine and outdated four-speed automatic transmission. Lack-luster and cheap-looking interior as well as the inability of the rear seats to be stowed away are also cons.

Overall Rating
60 out of 100

What others say:

“The American-built Mitsubishi Galant is one of those vehicles that should have been replaced a while ago…”Car Connection

“Reasonably nimble, but Galant doesn’t control body motions as well due to suspension tuning that is soft when compared with other midsize cars.”Consumer Guide

“The Galant’s ride is a bit choppy and stiff even on smooth pavement.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Despite this year’s added features, the 2011 Mitsubishi Galant remains well behind the pack due to its relatively meager power, unimpressive cabin quality and outdated styling.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $21,899.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.7 gallons (67 liters)	MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.1 in. (485 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (183.8 cm)
Height: 57.4 in. (145.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.3 in. (275 cm)
Curb Weight: 3395 lbs (1540 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L SOHC MIVEC 4-cylinder	Displacement: 2378 cc
Horsepower: 160 HP	Max RPM: 5500 RPM
Torque: 157 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic Sportronic®

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Galant SE

MSRP: $24,299; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

The name Mercedes Benz and innovation are synonymous. There are different models, which come up every 2-3 years and always create a niche in the market. Thanks to the glamour that Mercedes adds every year to its new fleet of cars, every new model is accepted with open arms by the consumers.

The 2011 E-class is new to Mercedes Benz in that it has completely reworked the E class for 2011 and has integrated several thematic designs and has also updated the horse-power for this model. The two models of E350 and E550 have caught the eyes of many a car lovers. The E550 comes with V-8 powered engine with luxurious interior and a throttle response has a quick steering and proper suspension.

Performance

Though the E350 may seem a bit dull in terms of its 3.5 liter engine, surprisingly, it has come out as a best seller with most of the people opting for a fun and frisky vehicle rather than a muscular one. There is a difference between the US and their European counterparts in terms of the engine efficiency in the E-Class model. The E350 has a 268 HP V6 and the more masculine E550 has a 382 HP V8. The Europeans consumers have a 2.2 liter version of the engine and can manage a proper 44 mpg of speed.

The E350 has the 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 268 HP and also provides a 258-lb of torque. The E350 model weighs around 33785 pounds, and this makes it a little heavier than its other contemporary vehicles. The E550 model comes with 5.5 liter V8 engine and delivers 382 horsepower and a 391 lb torque.

The larger engine adds another couple of hundred of pounds to the total weight, but it makes it a very purposeful machine. Both the models E350 & E550 make use of a 7-speed automatic gearbox that provides ample power to its rear wheels. The efficiency for city and highway respectively are 17/26 for E350 and 15/23 in E550.

Exterior & Interior

A very beautiful feature in both the models of E350 and E550 is that there is an insulated roof top which could be retracted and, which keeps the noise out and at bay more so even on the highways. Mercedes-Benz E-class is designed in such a fashion, which can be termed as a convertible that could be used all the year round.

The icing on the cake is the roof-top which can be closed and opened in 20 seconds by the push of a single button. Another feature is that the top can be lowered down or pushed up while the speed of the car is at 25 mph. Similar sort of functionality is in other vehicles too but in E-class, the system folds itself very neatly and folds behind the rear seats.

Apart from the fuel-efficiency patterns, the E350 and E550 have other features intact too. They come with standard leather work done on the seats. There is a 14 points power driver seat with a fine walnut trim. There are two zone climatic controllable devices with seven airbags. These are the features of E350 model and E550 model comes with added features.

The Competition

There are many other vehicles that can be compared to the E class such as the Cadillac STS (MSRP $47,280; 18 city / 27 hwy), Jaguar XF (MSRP $53,000; 16 city / 23 hwy), and the Infiniti M (MSRP $47,700; 18 city / 26 hwy).

There is a more aggressive front end put in case E550 and the wheels are unique and different than other models. The brake-disc is cross drilled with a proper suspension. The E550 model has also the facility to switch it to the sports model. Here, the throttle map is fully changed and the navigation system is changed too. The laser control phenomena are common in both the models.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“ The 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class’s interior is excellent, nearly equaling the S-Class in quality and feel.”Car Connection

“E-Class is pleasant and capable, but all fall well short of being outright sporty. We notice some body lean in fast turns. Steering feel seems sloppy to some testers, even on versions equipped with the Sport Package. Braking is highly responsive, easy to modulate, and impeccably secure. The exception is the E63, which has firm, direct steering, outstanding body control, and strong brakes.”Consumer Guide

“The E-Class is still nice but less impressive than its predecessor. While it is very quiet and fit and finish is impressive, the ride isn’t as comfortable.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“ Enjoyable to drive, offering superior quality and available in a host of different body styles, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is a luxury-car triumph that deserves serious consideration.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $49,400.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters)	MPG: 20 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.7 in. (486 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.2 in. (287.5 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Width: 73 in. (185 cm)
Curb Weight: 3825 lbs (1735 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.1 in. (10 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L 24-valve DOHC V6	Compression Ratio: 12.0: 1
Horsepower: 302 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 273 lb-ft @ 3500-5250 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:E Class Coupe	MSRP: $48,850; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy
Option:E Class Cabriolet	MSRP: $56,850; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:E Class 4Matic Wagon	MSRP: $56,200; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:E Class Sedan 5.5L V8	MSRP: $57,100; MPG: 15 city / 23 hwy
Option:E Class Sedan E63 AMG 6.3L V8	MSRP: $87,600; MPG: 13 city / 20 hwy

The C300 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class provides luxury, performance and refinement compared to its large-size sedan siblings but in a much more affordable package. The C300 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class Luxury model will impress anyone with a good build quality, excellent fit and finish, user-friendly high-tech features and a refined ride.

Performance

The C300 luxury model is powered with a 3.0L V6 that produces 228 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque and has a seven-speed automatic transmission. Also, it comes with a standard rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive.

Exterior & Interior

The C300 luxury model share the same engine and are available with 4Matic all-wheel drive, but differ in exterior styling elements, suspension tuning, interior trim, standard transmission and front seat design.

It comes with a standard 17-inch wheels, a sunroof, cruise control, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, automatic headlights, dual-zone automatic climate control, vinyl upholstery, eight-way power front seats, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker stereo with a CD player, pop-up 5-inch display screen and a auxiliary audio jack.

The Premium package adds auto-dimming mirrors, power driver lumbar support, a 10-way power driver seat, driver memory functions, automatic wipers, heated front seats, satellite radio, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a split-folding rear seat and a power rear sunshade. A lighting package also adds active xenon headlights with washers, LED taillights and LED running lights.

Quality and sophistication are the two best words to describe the interiors of C300 luxury model. The interior in C300 luxury model is beautifully crafted, with its austere ambience and an angular design. Opting for a wood trim or a two-tone color scheme at least gives a small amount of warmth. The electronic interface is very user friendly.

Safety & reliability

Customer safety is one important point in 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class car. Safety features in the car helps to cooperate better with the person handling the vehicle.
The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class comes with a standard front side airbags, front-seat-mounted pelvic airbags, side curtain airbags, a driver knee airbag, active front head restraints, traction control, stability control and adaptive antilock brakes. Rear side airbags in C300 models are optional.

The C300 model has got 4 out of 5 score for frontal crash protection and 5 stars for rear and front side protection in government crash testing.

The Competition

Comparison of C300 luxury model with other similar cars, the C-Class C300 luxury model can be a bit pricey when compared with equipped competitors such as the Lexus IS (MSRP $40,020; 19 city / 27 hwy) and Infiniti G37 (MSRP $32,400; 19 city / 27 hwy). Also the BMW 3 Series (MSRP $38,500; 18 city / 28 hwy) offers a more involving drive for the driving enthusiast. Still, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class car remains a shining star, offering luxury sedan intenders a well-regarded well-rounded, choice.

Pros & Cons

Provides a great quiet ride, a posh appearance, comfortable, and sufficient seating at the front. The rear seating is cramped.

The C300 luxury model of the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is the most compact and least expensive vehicle among the brands sedan offering. But it offers a good driving dynamics and safety features that a user expects from a Mercedes-Benz C-Class cars.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class models provide the utmost comfort for front occupants, but those in back, even if they can get in, will be left wedging their legs against the back of the front seats.”Car Connection

“Sport with 18-inch tires has slightly sharper steering response, but all models corner with surefooted aplomb and little body lean. Steering is a bit numb but properly weighted. Braking control is strong, though one test model suffered from touchy pedal action.”Consumer Guide

“The redesigned C-Class is a capable car, and is now more competitively priced. The 3.0-liter V6 provided smooth and strong performance, and 21 mpg overall on premium fuel. The cabin remains snug, but it is quiet and the seats are supportive. AWD is offered on the C300. The sport suspension makes the ride a bit choppy at low speeds.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Impeccably built to a standard befitting its legendary status, the 2011 Mercedes-Benz C-Class is an impressive luxury car. At the same time, the C-Class’s pricing tends to be higher than its rivals despite giving away a bit in terms of performance.”Edmunds

“If you desire a reasonably-priced premium luxury car guaranteed to impress the neighbors, but still require a functioning sedan for clients and family, the C-Class has you covered.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $38,430.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.4 gallons (65.8 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.8 in. (459 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm)
Height: 56.9 in. (144.5 cm)	Width: 69.7 in. (177 cm)
Curb Weight: 3737 lbs (1695 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.5 in. (11 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 12.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.0L 24-valve DOHC V6	Displacement: 2996 cc
Horsepower: 228 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 221 lb-ft @ 2700-5000 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic 4Matic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:C250 Luxury 1.8L Turbo Inline-4	MSRP: $35,220; MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy
Option:C300 Sport Sedan	MSRP: $38,020; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:C350 Sport Sedan	MSRP: $40,575; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:C63 AMG	MSRP: $58,930; MPG: 13 city / 19 hwy

The 2011 Hamann Porsche Panamera Widebody is a concept car patterned from the traditional Porsche automobile although there have been some modifications done. The kit is aerodynamic and has several fresh features. It includes an expanded rear wing which houses a one of a kind rear diffuser and uniquely shaped tailpipe tips. From the front and rear axles, this Panamera model is about 60 mm wider.

Performance

The wheels are incorporated perfectly onto the widened sides of the automobile. The wheels make use of 22 inch Forged Gunmetal with rims. As for the engine, the Panamera has a lot to offer. Upon looking at the performance, this model has better and increased output in comparison to older models. It has a 579 hp and 605 lb ft of torque.

Exterior & Interior

When looking at the model’s interior, the Panamera gives anyone who scoots into the inside a fell for luxury. The perfect description would probably be like walking onto a 5 start lounge for VIP’s. Usually for the previous models, a factory stock unit is installed by the manufactures but with this model, all the interiors have been replaced with fine leather coverings.

As for the other accessories such as the pedal system, these have also been upgraded. The pedals have been forged with pure aluminum in order to provide a sleek feel that complements the rest of the Panamera’s interior.

The 2011 Panamera definitely has a lot to offer from its aesthetics to driving dynamics; it can give its competitors a run for their money.

Specifications

Performance

Horsepower: 579 HP

Torque: 605 lb-ft

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is one of the cars that Chevy is proud of. It was rated by some car reviewers as number 5 out of 33 affordable cars that they have analyzed and checked. It is a small car that serves as a great replacement for Chevrolet Aveo which gained a lot of bad feedback from Chevy fans.

This car was inspired by the cartoon character Sonic the Hedgehog. The characteristics of its inspiration can be seen with its overall design and performance. The company really takes their car creation to the next level with this car model.

Performance

In terms of the performance, most of Sonics’ users were impressed. The car can take either an Ecotec 1.4 litre four cylindered engine or an Ecotec 1.8 litre four cylindered engine. The 1.4 litre engine can give the car a 135 hp strength and 125 of torque, while the 1.8 litre engine can give the car a 138 hp strength and 148 of torque. Those engines could take either six speeds automatic or five speeds manual. The power of its engines and some of its extra optional features created a great hype to a lot of car shoppers.

Interior & Exterior

In terms of overall design, the Chevrolet Sonic gained high ratings from its users. The outside of the car takes a sporty type of look which what people loved about it. It has a rear handles which is integrated to its side pillars. This integration is what helps the car to avoid looking like bland Sedan and what makes it sportier than Scion cars.

On the other hand, the inside of the car maybe is far greater than its exterior. According to some reviewers, this part of Sonic outshines Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit. It has a logical control positioning, very comfortable leather seat, decent trunk space, and great extra interior features.

Safety & Reliability

Moreover, the safety and reliability that 2012 Chevrolet Sonic offers was also highly rated. It was ranked by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as one of the “top safe vehicle” from all the cars that they have tested. It gets the highest possible scores that IIHS can give from rear, side, rollover, and frontal crash tests. Some of the features from the car that help the it to achieve those results are 10 airbags, electronic force distribution brake system, traction control, automatic crash response, and anti-lock brakes.

The Sonic Chevrolet offers shoppers with 2 options on their reliability warranty. It has a 3 year or 36,000 mile warranty and 5 years or 100,000 mile warranty. From those, the company gives users 24/7 road assistance and a transportation program.

The Competition

Compared to other cars, Chevrolet Sonic almost surpassed some of its competitors on road performance. The car has a better handling control on curves on the road than Honda Fit (MSRP $15,175; 27 city / 33 hwy) and Ford Fiesta (MSRP $15,500; 29 city / 38 hwy). The only area where it losses on those cars is on under-steering during turns. This means that the car goes a wider turn than what it’s the car’s driver intended to. The good thing is that this problem could easily be fixed with some adjustments, combined with the driver’s efforts on getting used to the car.

The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic is a great choice for people who want to have a powerful and beautiful Chevrolet car model, in a reasonable price.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic makes good use of its very small dimensions, while comfortable seats and a tight, quiet cabin should make it easy to live with.”Car Connection

“A cut above the class norm. Sonic has sharp steering and great grip, especially the LTZ, on account of its larger wheels and tires. Body lean is noticeable in very fast cornering, but the car is otherwise well composed.”Consumer Guide

“The 2012 Chevrolet Sonic could be an intriguing choice for a small economy car thanks to edgy styling, impressive power and roomy interior.”Edmunds

“In sedan or 5-door hatchback configuration, the 2012 Chevy Sonic is the quietest and most composed subcompact car you can buy.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $13,735.00
Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $14,635.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.2 gallons (46 liters)	MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions-Sedan

Length: 173.1 in. (439 cm)	Width: 68.3 in. (173 cm)
Height: 59.7 in. (151 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.4 in. (252 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Dimensions-Hatchback

Length: 159 in. (403.8 cm)	Width: 68.3 in. (173 cm)
Height: 59.7 in. (151 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.4 in. (252 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 19 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve DOHC Inline-4	Displacement: 1.8 Liter
Horsepower: 138 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 3800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16.8 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Sonic LT	MSRP: $14,935; MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy
Option:Sonic LTZ	MSRP: $16,535; MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy
Option:Sonic LT Hatchback	MSRP: $15,735; MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy
Option:Sonic LTZ Hatchback	MSRP: $17,235; MPG: 26 city / 35 hwy