The midsize sedan market is one of the most competitive segments on the market. Guaranteed to seat at least 4 people, this market encompasses some of the most demanding clientele around. Depending on your orientation, they might look for style, comfort, performance, luxury, reliability, practicality, value for money, or a combination of some or all of these values. With such a deep market, success here almost equates to a ton of sales. This is why just about every brand has a competitor for this segment. And for Mazda, a car known for its ethos of making quick and sporty cars, their bet for this segment is the 2011 Mazda 6.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $20,240.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 193.7 in. (492 cm)	Width: 72.4 in. (183.9 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.8 in. (278 cm)
Curb Weight: 3272 lbs (1484 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (13 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 16.6 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L DOHC 16-Valve 4-cylinder w/ VVT	Displacement: 2489 cc
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 167 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual w/ OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Mazda6 iTouring	MSRP: $22,885; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:Mazda6 iTouring Plus	MSRP: $24,490; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:Mazda6 iGrand Touring	MSRP: $27,070; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:Mazda6 sTouring Plus	MSRP: $27,330; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy
Option:Mazda6 sTouring	MSRP: $29,570; MPG: 21 city / 30 hwy

Performance

It’s no secret that the Mazda 6 is designed to be sporty. But does its performance stack up to the image? There are 2 engine options: a 2.5 liter 4-cylinder engine with a rated output of 170 horsepower and a 3.7 liter V6 engine rated at 272 horsepower. A 6 speed manual gearbox is offered for the 4 cylinder variant while a 6 speed automatic is the only option for the 6 cylinder one.

But this one is gaining the most rave reviews for its handling. The suspension used in this car is very well sorted out. Its drivers will surely appreciate its impressive handling. But despite that, you don’t have to worry about bumps. It can handle them with grace, providing a smooth ride for all. With just the right firmness, the suspension settings make this car a winner.

Exterior & Interior

Perhaps due to their “zoom-zoom” principle, the Mazda 6 is shaped to be as sporty as possible. And the result is one of the more aggressive looking midsize sedans out there. Sporty lines such as fender flares, a swooping rooflines, and dual exhausts set the tone for this car. In addition, its looks are unmistakably Mazda. In the interior, it features some updates for 2011. The quality of materials used is a step up from previous models.

Also, the seats are top notch. Both the front and rear are spacious and can accommodate just about any type of person. Plus the trunk is pretty large for its class, with 16.6 cubic feet of room to spare. The ergonomics are commendable; the gauges are legible and the different functions can be used without much hassle. Safety ratings can be described as good enough for this car. It had great ratings for front and side impacts, but the integrity of the roof scored only “acceptable” while marginal ratings are given for rear collisions.

The Competition

The Toyota Camry SE (MSRP $22,965; 22 city / 33 hwy) and the Honda Accord EX (MSRP $24,305; 33 city / 33 hwy) are two other vehicles that are in direct competition with the Mazda6.

Pros & Cons

Now, with all the statistics out of the way, we would try to discuss the reasons for you to buy or not buy the Mazda6. The biggest reason why you should buy this car is because of its performance. It was advertised that way, and it delivers.

While some deem that the 4 cylinder engine seemed too weak for a car of its caliber, the 6 cylinder equipped ones are spectacular. Its abundant power is perfect with its well balanced chassis. In addition, its looks are well received. It imparts a defined character, something that some cars don’t have.

Furthermore, this car is practical for everyday use. It can haul at least 4 people comfortably, and take on their entire luggage for good measure. There are reasons why you shouldn’t buy this car, but they are relatively minor. One, the central part of the rear seat is seemingly best suited for smaller people, and two, its 4 cylinder engine is deemed to be an underwhelming performer.

The Mazda6 is definitely a contender in the midsize sedan market, with over 1 million units sold since 2002. The 2011 Mazda6 is sure to carry on this tradition, and bring on smiles to all its owners with its driver-centered dynamics and well-thought construction.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mazda Mazda6 is a great pick for practically-minded family-car shoppers who also value driving enjoyment.”Car Connection

“The 6 is agile and corners with confidence. Body lean in corners is minimal. Steering is responsive, with good on-center feel.”Consumer Guide

“The redesigned Mazda6 is larger and more refined than its predecessor.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The well-rounded 2011 Mazda 6 ranks highly among family sedans for its sporty driving dynamics and spacious interior.”Edmunds

“While not the sport-oriented platform enjoyed by its predecessor, the newest Mazda6 retains fun-to-drive elements, while offering far more interior volume for passengers and cargo.”KBB

The 2012 Audi Q3 Vail Concept, a compact SUV named after the famous winter sports venue in Colorado, represents a new potential distinction on the SUV concept.

This Concept is designed to tackle the ski slopes, will hit the U.S market in 2014.

It is painted in Energy Red, which contains golden pearlescent particles.

Exterior

The flared wheel arches and running boards, are some of the exterior eye-catching features on the sides of the Audi Q3 Vail. This themed car also features two exclusive solutions at the back, two tailpipes of dual-branch exhaust system which is integrated in the diffuser and underbody guard area. The front roof-rail support incorporates compact and energy efficient wide-angled LED lights that brighten the area around the Q3 Vail.

Interior

The interior of this vehicle is covered in 3 colors. The carpet and most interior parts of the car are black in color, while the headlining is made from titanium gray Alcantara. The ribbed floor mats are edged with thin strips of red velvet finish leather. The whole instrument panel is trimmed in black fine Nappa leather, with a contrasting titanium gray stitching.

The steering wheel is made of leather with red contrasting stitching and an aluminum trim. Another striking feature in this SUV is the metal dials around the speedometer and rev counter, which were made using a rotary-grinding process.

Performance

The Audi Q3 Vail Concept uses a 2.5 liter, 5 cylinder TFSI engine with turbo charging and direct injection, which generates an output of 314 horse power and 295 lb/ft of torque from a displacement of 2,480 cc. The engine is partially covered by a panel made from carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer.

The power of the five cylinder unit is transferred to the Quattro permanent all-wheel drive system through a 7-speed S-tronic transmission. The Q3 Vail Concept accelerates from zero to 60 mph in 5.5 second and continues to a maximum speed of 162.80 mph.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV

Base Price: NA

Performance

Engine: 2.5L 5 Cylinder TFSI	Displacement: 2480 cc
Horsepower: 314 HP	Max RPM: NA
Torque: 295 lb-ft	Transmission: 7-Speed S Tronic
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds	Maximum Speed: 163 mph (262 km/h)

The 2011 Lucerne is the flagship sedan from Buick. It provides premium features and safety equipments. It combines some of the best designs found in the old vehicles with new technology making it more usable and interesting for buyers.

It is a sedan with large front-wheel drive that emphasizes classic shapes and details inside and out.

New Features

The exterior comes with chrome accents and optional polished alloy wheels to give more style to the car. The interior is moderate. The seats are made of leather which is nicely stitched. The 2011 Lucerne features Bluetooth compatibility, Adaptive Remote Start, XM Radio and many smart features. These technological features are given by Buick to cope up with the past models which did not have such feature.

The 2011 Buick Lucerne is a front-wheel drive that comes in four trims. These trim levels are CX, CXL Premium and Super. The CX comes with alloy wheels in 17-inch size, satellite radio and air conditioning. CXL trims have additional features such as automatic control with dual zone feature, Bluetooth wireless connectivity, front seats that are heated, leather upholstery, and steering wheel that are also heated.

The CXL Premium trim models and the Super trims have further additional features such as chrome wheels and audio that has been upgraded. The Super trim also features Magnetic Ride Control, front seats with ventilation, sun roof and leather upholstery.

Performance

The Lucerne comes with an option between two engines. The CX and CXL trims are equipped with a 3.9-litter V6 engine that can achieve 227 hp and 237 lbs ft of torque. The Super trim is equipped with a 4.6 liter engine that achieves 292 hp and 288 pound ft of torque. Both engines come in a four-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel economy on the V6 engine is estimated to achieve 17 mpg in the city and 27 in the highway. The V8 on the other hand has estimated fuel economy of 15 mpg in the city and 23 in the highway.

Exterior & Interior

The Lucerne’s exterior has features such as a waterfall grille and chrome portholes found around the flanks. The angled windshield and roofline are designed to go with the flow. It has standard 17 inch alloy wheels, optional remote start, optional lane departure warning system and parking assist which is also optional. The Super trim has 18 inch alloy wheels.

The interior of the Lucerne has more cabin space than its competitors. It can seat five to six passengers. The dashboard features comprehensive gauges, easy to use controls, and simple lay-out. The large trunk can load amounting to 17 cubit feet of cargo.

Other features include memory settings, a power lumbar, heated front seats, and heated steering wheel. It also features a 280-watt audio system equipped with nine speakers.

Safety & Reliability

Safety features of the 2011 Buick Lucerne include the anti-lock disc brakes, stability control, overhead curtain bags, front impact and side impact airbags, OnStar service and monitoring system for tire pressure. CXL Premium trim models and the Super trims have additional features such as rear parking assist, warning system on lane departure and alert system on the side blind zone.

The 2011 Lucerne has not yet been rated by the federal government. But the 2010 model has been rated with perfect scores for frontal occupant protection for head-on collisions and earned four stars in front and rear side-impact protection. The tests are not comparable to the 2011 tests.

The IHHS gave the Lucerne a top score in frontal-offset collisions. It was also rated with “Acceptable” rating for side-impact testing.

The Competition

The 2011 Buick Lucerne has competition in the Ford Taurus. The Ford Taurus (MSRP $25,420; 18 city / 28 hwy) has received good reviews because of its high tech cabin that has SYNC system that has voice control and music gadgets with voice commands. Furthermore, Taurus costs less than the Lucerne.

Pros

• Roomy Cabin
• Gives comfortable ride
• Large trunk

Cons

• Weak V6 engine
• Poor handling
• Dated 4-speed transmission

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The Lucerne is old-style luxury, American-style. A large front-wheel-drive sedan, the Lucerne emphasizes classic, if dated, shapes and details inside and out. ”Car Connection

“All Lucernes have a wide turning circle for poor close-quarters maneuverability. All stop with confidence, but some testers complain of a dull brake-pedal feel.”Consumer Guide

“Braking and handling are below par, but the ride is comfortable. Rear seat room is good.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“A relic of the way Buick used to design its cars, the 2011 Lucerne is outclassed by newer and more appealing luxury sedans.”Edmunds

“All 2011 Buick Lucerne models gain GM’s StabiliTrak stability control system, while five-passenger models are fitted with a console-mounted USB port.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $29,730.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters)	MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 203.2 in. (516 cm)	Width: 73.8 in. (187 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.6 in. (293 cm)
Curb Weight: 3735 lbs (1694 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 17 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 12-Valves OHV V6	Displacement: 3.9 liter
Horsepower: 227 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 237 lb-ft @ 2300 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Hydra-Matic (automatic)
0-60 mph: 7.6 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs (453.6 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:CXL	MSRP: $33,130; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy
Option:CXL Premium	MSRP: $35,675; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy
Option:Super w/ Northstar V8	MSRP: $44,460; MPG: 15 city / 23 hwy

This version of the Scion xD is designed with the youth in mind, so it is really funky, hip, and customizable.

Performance

The xD does not meet expectations when it comes to economy. The car uses a gallon of fuel per 27 miles combined. The reason behind it is its 1.8 liters four cylinder engine. Despite that, the xD produces 128 hp, which is a fair enough ability compared to other affordable cars. Another area where the xD falls is that it doesn’t fit in hilly places. According to some of its users, the car struggles on steep slopes. It would be a great idea for people that usually drive on those types of place to opt out on buying the xD.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior and interior design of the Scion xD, created hype among its users and reviewers. The outside of the car takes a boxy type of style which will clearly give people the impression of youth and beauty. In addition, Scion offers a variety of car accessory options so you can add your personality and sense of style to your car.

The inside of the car is what is more impressive. It has optional and standard features which rivals its competitors. Some of the things that stand out in the interior of the Scion xD are the comfortable seats, sound system, and driving controls. These things are the reason why the car has a very good rating in terms of its overall looks.

Safety & Reliability

For people who are always looking out for safety in car they drive, the Scion xD is a great choice. The car was rated by federal department 4 out of 5 on frontal and rollover crash test and a perfect score on side crash test. In addition, it was rated by some insurance company with the highest possible score they can give on crash tests. The only issue on xD’s safety is that it suffers from a little deficiency to its reliability which might be a huge problem to its users.

The Competition

Compared to other cars, the 2011 Scion xD seems to be able hold its own. The Ford Fiesta (MSRP $15,500; 29 city / 38 hwy) and Honda Fit (MSRP $15,175; 27 city / 33 hwy) which cost almost the same as the xD might be a better choice in terms of performance and reliability. However, the Kia Soul (MSRP $13,300; 26 city / 31 hwy), Scion xB (MSRP $16,000; 22 city / 28 hwy), and Nissan Cube (MSRP $14,740; 25 city / 30 hwy) may be worth a look for people who really want a boxy type of car. According to some, those cars have extra features compared to the Scion xD.

Finally

The upside on the Scion xD are the design of the car, its low price, and the safety features that come with it. On the contrary, the Scion xD does not fare well in fuel conservation and is deficient when it comes to reliability. The 2011 Scion xD is a good choice; but to get the most of your money, it will be a good idea to look at others.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Scion xD is less controversial than the larger xB, but not everyone will like the blockier look.”Car Connection

“xD’s light steering lacks road feel. Somewhat soft suspension damping allows for early onset of tire squeal and plenty of body lean in fast turns. ”Consumer Guide

“The small xD is nimble, but has a jittery, unsettled ride.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“A stylized exterior and a wealth of optional accessories will attract buyers to the 2011 Scion xD, but some competing models offer more utility and fun.”Edmunds

“Those who want ample acceleration from stop lights and on freeway on- and off-ramps may be happier with the standard five-speed manual transmission than the optional four-speed automatic. With its short, squat stance the 2011 Scion xD is capable of handling curves and dips in the road with ease, although rough road surfaces will make the ride slightly less comfortable.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $15,110.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.1 gallons (42 liters)	MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 154.7 in. (393 cm)	Width: 67.9 in. (172 cm)
Height: 59.4 in. (150.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 96.9 in. (246 cm)
Curb Weight: 2625 lbs (1190 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 10.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 1.8L DOHC 16-valve 4 cyl w/ dual VVT-i	Compression Ratio: 10.0: 1
Horsepower: 128 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 125 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:xD Release Series 3.0

MSRP: $16,905; MPG: 27 city / 33 hwy

The 2011 Kia Sportage is currently a favorite in the market, thanks to its head-turning exterior and classy interior. Although it’s pretty small, the Sportage packs a lot in the design department.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior of this midsize SUV is pretty good with the front end curving towards an appealing top and then tapers downwards. The Sportage’s practically classic shape is a definite eye-turner. Coming in colors like red and silver, this Kia vehicle is not exactly stunning but good – looking enough to turn heads.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Mid SUV	Base Price: $18,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.3 gallons (58 liters)	MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.8 in. (444 cm)	Width: 73 in. (185 cm)
Height: 64.4 in. (163.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263 cm)
Curb Weight: 3157 lbs (1432 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.7 in. (17 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 26.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.4L 16-Valve DOHC Inline-4	Displacement: 2359 cc
Horsepower: 176 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 168 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD
0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Sportage EX FWD	MSRP: $23,900; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy
Option:Sportage LX FWD	MSRP: $20,800; MPG: 22 city / 32 hwy
Option:Sportage SX FWD	MSRP: $26,900; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:Sportage SX AWD	MSRP: $28,400; MPG: 21 city / 26 hwy

The interior of the Kia Sportage is actually remarkable with a combination of materials that are of high quality. Compared to other cars that are within the same price range – like the Honda CR-V – the Sportage’s interior is definitely better. With the design mostly done in black with textures pleasing to the touch, the interior gives off a “sporty” vibe to its users. The model can comfortably sit up to five people and capable of carrying adequate cargo.

Performance

Packing a 176 horsepower with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, the Sportage is less sleek than it looks. The handling is actually a bit sloppy with the steering wheel putting up a fight thanks to its heavy weight. Owners will find that the ride is not exactly smooth, making it only ideal for day to day driving in the city.

The placement of controls in the interior however is admirable. Owners would find it easy to navigate through the car and would likely take a short time to master the vehicle.

Safety & Reliability

Being chosen as the Top Safety Pick by significant members of the Insurance industry basically makes the Sportage an excellent car when it comes to safety. An electronic stability system is installed in the car as well as overall strength against impact. Standard safety measures are all installed in the Sportage including the airbags that encompass even second row passengers.

Pros & Cons

What’s great about the Sportage is its tech system with a navigation system that works like a pro. The car also comes with a differential lock and a voice command that allows users to control the car for different purposes – like dialing by name. Unfortunately, the engine didn’t catch some of the advance tech benefits, placing it firmly within the average scale.

There are also optional moon roofs, which can be very entertaining for those who want to use the car for across-city drives. For families, this can be an excellent way to keep the kids happy during traffic.

Exterior and interior are beyond customer expectations with Kia delivering a flawlessly shaped vehicle. Sadly, handling of the Sportage is not exactly smooth, which means that it is best reserved for city driving.

The Competition

All in all, the 2011 Kia Sportage makes for an excellent multipurpose vehicle. Kia beats out some of the competition in terms of design and safety. The horsepower is pretty good but with the rough ride, it may not be worth it. On the other hand, the car provides excellent safety for its passengers.

The Honda CR-V (MSRP $21,895; 21 city / 28 hwy), Ford Escape (MSRP $21,240; 23 city / 28 hwy), and the Nissan Rogue (MSRP $21,460; 22 city / 28 hwy) are among those vying for the same attention as the Sportage.

Considering the many factors and features, the Kia Sportage is an adequate buy for those who want something inexpensive and durable. For those who don’t, the good news is that a Turbo model is being planned. Hence, those who are willing to hold out, Kia may release an upgrade of the Sportage soon so they might get a better deal on that one.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“Kia hits game reset, and gives the 2011 Sportage an appealing new look and feel.”Car Connection

“Body lean is well-checked in fast turns, but the steering feels somewhat light and lifeless, at least on the LX and EX.”Consumer Guide

“A sporty alternative in the growing crossover utility segment, the 2011 Kia Sportage should attract customers with its sleek looks, and turbo power will make it sportier.”MSN Auto

“The 2011 Kia Sportage offers many improvements over the previous-generation Kia crossover, and now the Sportage matches up with the best crossover SUVs in the class.”Edmunds