If you want to own a vehicle as your new investment, then you may want to consider the 2011 Suzuki SX4 instead. As a matter of fact, this can be among your best choices if you are working on a tight budget and you want to get the best value for your money.

This model is available in four trims. And you can be guaranteed that all of them are actually enjoyable to drive. Actually, the best feature of this model is its all-wheel drive which a lot of people really love. There have also been improvements from the previous versions in features for the safety and comfort of passengers on the SX4.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $16,479.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters)	MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 176.8 in. (449 cm)	Width: 68.1 in. (173 cm)
Height: 60.8 in. (154 cm)	Wheel Base: 98.4 in. (249 cm)
Curb Weight: 2734 lbs (1240 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.5 in. (16.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 15.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve DOHC Inline-4	Displacement: 2.0 liter
Horsepower: 150 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SX4 SE FWD	MSRP: $17,849; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:SX4 GTS FWD	MSRP: $18,999; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:SX4 SportBack	MSRP: $16,599; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:SX4 Crossover AWD	MSRP: $16,999; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that all SX4’s come with a 2 liter engine. At the same time, it gives you 150 horsepower if you opt for the manual transmission. On the other hand, if you prefer an automatic transmission, then you can enjoy a slightly lower horsepower at 148.

However, a lot of users are not really satisfied with the performance of this model. For instance, it can be a bit noisy. Some users also complain that there is a delay in the release of power by the engine. More so, the fuel economy for this model is not faring well either.

On the other hand, a lot of users actually like the handling of this model. The breaks are also excellent and the ride is very much smooth.

Exterior & Interior

When it comes to the exterior styling and design of the 2011 SX4, the reviewers and critics do not have much to say. Well, that basically means that the exterior of this model is not ugly, but it is not remarkable either. It falls on the safe side. And for some, it can be boring. Thus, if you are looking for a vehicle that will get second looks on the road, then this may not be the model for you. Nonetheless, there are those which say that the Crossover and SportBack versions of this model have a memorable design and styling.

The interior styling and design of this model does not spark remarkable comments either. As a matter of fact, they are also bordering on stylish simplicity. While it is true that the materials used and the trimming executed are very much upscale, the layout is still pretty simple.

In terms of seating, the Suzuki SX4 actually has a capacity for five people. However, a lot of reviews still say that if you want to be comfortable given the space, it would be better to limit the occupancy to four people.

And for the technological features, you will surely be amazed by the offerings from this model. And perhaps the most impressive of which is the Garmin navigation system which are only present in certain models. Rest assured, the devices and panels for this model are very much user-friendly. More so, the fit and finish of the interior of this model is pretty much great as well.

Safety

As for the safety aspect, you will love the fact that the manufacturer actually made it a point to include quite a number of safety features for this model. For instance, this version of the Suzuki SX4 is actually complete with airbags, a monitoring system for the tire pressure as well as anti-lock brakes. Some trims also get to enjoy a stability control system.

The SX4 was ranked a number 4 out of a total of 10 in terms of the Predicted Reliability Rating by J. D. Power. That is quite low. However, you will be delighted that all 2011 Suzuki SX4 come with a basic warranty of 36,000 miles or 3 years and a powertrain warranty of 100,000 miles or 7 years.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Suzuki SX4 is considerably more enjoyable to drive than most other on-a-budget small cars.”Car Connection

“Quick, nicely weighted steering and stable cornering make SX4 feel nimble despite moderate body lean in fast turns. Brake-pedal action is firm and progressive on all SX4s.”Consumer Guide

“We got 24 mpg overall in the AWD hatchback and 26 in our FWD sedan.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Awkward driving position; so-so cabin materials; limited fuel range of AWD model; dizzying array of trim levels.”Edmunds

“If you enjoy a fun-to-drive platform for minimal expense, the SX4 Sport and SportBack deliver it in spades.”KBB

Kia Motors is dedicated to developing the latest innovations in the vehicle manufacturing industry.

With a company philosophy of creating high value, excellent quality, safe and dynamic cars, Kia is very much known for their slogan, “The Power to Surprise.”

Exterior & Interior

The Kia Pop Concept Car may very well be the future of transportation in the urban setting. This all-electric concept car is less than 10 feet in length but can support up to three passengers. Conceived by the mind of Peter Schreyer, the Kia Pop can be driven up to 100 miles on a single charge. Designed as a flashy city car, the Kia Pop has unique oblong windows that allow the driver to have a wide and unencumbered view of his or her driving environment.

The interior style aptly complements the distinct look of the Kia Pop. With a front seat that flows and a color scheme that calms, this Kia creation does not feature a dashboard and instead showcases an organic LCD panel for the speedometer and various other gauges. Moreover, a single touch screen display has adequately replaced the traditional buttons and dials found on most cars.

Performance

Featuring highly efficient compact lithium polymer gel batteries, this concept car is extremely lightweight and requires minimal parking space. Nonetheless, the Kia Pop is designed to have a maximum speed of 87 miles per hour. Recharging in just six hours, this particular electric car is designed to have zero emissions while on the road.

As such, the Kia Pop concept car is a brilliant ray of sunshine amidst the serious tones of the other models.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Concept Car	Base Price: NA
Charging Time: 6 Hours (230v)	Range: 100 miles (160.9 km)

Dimensions

Length: 118.1 in. (300 cm)	Wheel Base: 80.9 in. (205 cm)
Height: 58.7 in. (149 cm)	Width: 68.5 in. (174 cm)
Luggage Capacity: NA	Maximum Seating: 2+1

Performance

Engine: Electric	Type: Li Polymer Battery
Horsepower: 67 HP	Torque: 140 lb-ft @ XXXX rpm
Capacity: 18kWh	Maximum Speed: 87 mph (140 km/h)

The 2011 Kia Forte now also comes with a hatchback option. As one of the previously less rated cars in 2010, the newly remodeled Forte returns with bigger surprises when it comes to safety, interior, and exterior aspects.

Performance

The new Kia Forte has double 2.0-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine both equipped with six-speed manual and automatic transmission options. This element is one of the most noticeable upgrades manufacturers of the previous Forte models have incorporated. Reviewers have mixed reactions with its performance; some claims it has a zippy acceleration and others call it rather sluggish and sloppy.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $15,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 gallons (51.8 liters)	MPG: 25 city / 34 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 178.3 in. (452 cm)	Width: 69.9 in. (177.5 cm)
Height: 57.5 in. (146 cm)	Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (265 cm)
Curb Weight: 2729 lbs (1237 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.9 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L 16-Valve DOHC Inline 4	Displacement: 1998 cc
Horsepower: 156 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 144 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Forte EX	MSRP: $17,600; MPG: 26 city / 36 hwy
Option:Forte SX	MSRP: $19,100; MPG: 23 city / 32 hwy
Option:Forte 5 Door EX	MSRP: $18,100; MPG: 26 city / 36 hwy
Option:Forte Koup EX	MSRP: $17,200; MPG: 24 city / 33 hwy

For one, this car isn’t sporty in any way. It’s under-steering and frequent body roll makes it awkward to do speed and rough riding. However, if you’re looking for a reliable car to get you where you needed to be and skip all the hassles of daily commute, this hatchback will prove an excellent candidate. Each ride is quiet and comfortable enough, with a little exception on the intrusive noise it makes when treading on awkward road surfaces. It comes with a speed-sensitive steering gears, four-wheel disc brakes, and suspension that were carefully tailored to suit American roads well.

Exterior & Interior

Reviewers rave about the modern look the Kia Forte dons. It has a new front grille and a handsome fascia design that sets it apart from the typical Hyundai image Kia cars exude. The Forte sedan has been noted for its crisp, athletic stance and the Koup brings in a new style dimension to the Forte series.

Excellent ergonomics is the most outstanding definition of the Forte. With a roomy, expandable 14.7 cubic feet trunk space and comfortable seating options, the Forte is ready to compete with the high-end small cars. The back seats are a bit small and can confidently seat two adults on light travels. The carpeting and major parts of the car are indeed made of fine-grade materials made to withstand moderate wear and tear. The front section of the car features interesting extras like an iPod connector and Bluetooth option.

Safety & Reliability

The Forte models may have the same safety ratings as with the 2010 models as little changes had only been made to its safety features. It comes with an advance air bag system, impressive anti-lock brakes, brake assist gear, tire pressure monitoring system, TCS or traction control, and ESC or stability control which makes it one of the most reliable small cars for 2011.

The Competition

The Kia Forte hatchback has an overall shorter body length than all the other 2010 Kia Forte cars in the series but it remains longer than three other contemporary small cars such as Volkswagen Golf (MSRP $17,995; 23 city / 33 hwy), Honda Fit, and Ford Fiesta. The handsome look this newly updated car sports will attract young, Gen-Y shoppers who might opt to buy either Scion TCs (MSRP $18,575; 23 city / 31 hwy) or Honda Civic Coupes (MSRP $17,655; 28 city / 36 hwy).

Now that a four-door hatchback was included in the Forte series, the Ford Fiesta and Honda Fit have found a worthy opponent in the hatchback league. The Ford Fiesta (MSRP $13,200; 28 city / 37 hwy) comes with a wide, 26 cubic feet cargo space at the back of the front row seats. The Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy) has an SUV-like 57.3 cubic feet cabin provides generous trunk space as well.

Pros & Cons

Reviewers gave two thumbs up to Kia Forte’s spacious interior, Bluetooth amenity, excellent fuel economy, 10-year warranty, and affordability. Some cons listed were about the noise it produces when trudging on rough planes, limited telescoping ability of the steering wheel, lack of a navigation system, and average handling.

Finally

The 2011 Kia Forte is a dependable small car that comes with a good price tag. No fancy promises offered for too adventurous riders but it surely is a reliable car for an average user. This is one good pick.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Kia Forte exemplifies the new direction of Kia, with a simple, elegant style, unexpected levels of refinement, and lots of value for the money.”Car Connection

“While not as buttoned down as its main Japanese rivals, Forte more than holds its own. Steering feel is fine on the highway, but it’s a bit heavy at low speeds. Braking control is good, but one test car suffered from a touchy pedal.”Consumer Guide

“The Forte is competitive in the small car class but lacks refinement.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Good fuel economy; excellent handling in SX trim; affordable pricing; long warranty; standard Bluetooth.”Edmunds

“From a driver’s standpoint, the 2011 Kia Forte feels right at home on long stretches of highway, but push it hard in the curves and the suspensions limitations quickly become apparent.”KBB

The Chevrolet Corvette is the standard bearer of Chevy lineup ever since its inception in 1953. Considered as America’s first true sports car, it is a legend in just about every definition that you would ask. This is the very reason why every iteration of the Corvette, expectations are always high. This is a review of the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette to see if this car really lives up to the hype.

Exterior & Interior

Of course, one of the things that separate sports cars from the rest of the pack is its looks. And boy, this Corvette has a lot of it. It still has its trademark long nose and low stance that people have come to love since 1953. There are 2 types of bodies available in this car: coupe and convertible. In addition, the coupe can have an optional Targa top.

Still, the distinctive fixed headlights that have been incorporated for the sixth generation of the Corvettes (a first since 1962) are still there. And then, the optional Grand Sport package allows for the ZO6 body kit to be installed. As for the interior, there are mixed feelings about it. As usual, it is a 2 seater; but some find it hard to get in and out of this car. Another thing is that they find that the trim for this car is cheap for a car of its stature.

Sure, it’s not the roomiest car in the world, but you don’t exactly buy sports cars for those comfort. The gauges and controls are both clean and straightforward. And to top it off, the Corvette’s trunk space of 22.4 cubic feet is a surprising yet very welcome characteristic.

Performance

Of course, you expect a car like the Corvette to shine on the performance department. And its host of mechanical equipment are considered top notch. Standard equipment for the base Corvette is a 6.2 liter V8 engine that is rated to produce 430 horsepower. That is a lot of power considering its price. It is combined with a six speed manual transmission; though an optional 6 speed gearbox with automatic function is also available.

This combination brings out performance that is going to shame even cars that have a much higher price tag. Acceleration time of zero to 100 kilometers per hour of 4.2 seconds is enough to beat most cars, as well as its quarter mile time of 12.6 seconds. Even better, the top speed is rated at over 300 kilometers per hour. In addition, the fuel mileage of this car is rated at 16 to 26 miles per gallon, good numbers for a borderline supercar but it is much better suited for cruising than city driving.

Its brakes provide consistent and controlled stopping power, adequate for a car of its capabilities. In addition, those that were able to drive this car applaud its incredible handling. And while this is very sharp on the track, it is very compliant on the road. This characteristic makes it great as a dual purpose vehicle. And if you want a more vicious car, the Corvette still has the more potent ZO6 package or even the wicked ZR1 trim.

The Competition

Names in the automobile industry that attract attention are always vying for attention against the Corvette. These include the Porsche 911 (MSRP $88,800; 17 city / 25 hwy), the Porsche Cayman (MSRP $51,400; 19 city / 27 hwy), and the BMW Z4 (MSRP $47,450; 18 city / 28 hwy). Note that these three have less horsepower than the Corvette and two cylinders short.

Pros & Cons

There are a lot of things to like about this version of the Corvette. It combines an iconic look with world beating performance. Combine track-ready performance with road-friendly manners, this could be the best 2-way supercar one can purchase at this price. On the downside, people are not satisfied with the relatively cheap assembly of the interior.

The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette lives up to the legend of being America’s first true sports car. Its world beating performance, together with its impeccable style and quality, makes up for one truly spectacular car. If there’s such a thing as a bargain supercar, this car is it.

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Chevrolet Corvette’s interior is clearly an area of compromise, where cost savings help translate into more performance per dollar, but the optional leather upgrade package helps solve some of those ills.”Car Connection

“Quick steering, tenacious smooth-road grip, and little cornering lean make Corvette, and particularly the ZR1, among the world’s best-handling cars. In fast turns, the Z06, more than the ZR1, requires careful use of the throttle, or the rear end will fishtail. Big, powerful brakes provide short, stable stops.”Consumer Guide

“The interior is roomy for a sports car.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Not as agile as some of its competitors; old-fashioned interior; Z06 and ZR1 models lack styling distinction.”Edmunds

“If you love your cars American and iconic, the 2011 Chevrolet Corvette is a sports car purist’s dream come true.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $49,045.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18 gallons (68 liters)	MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.6 in. (443 cm)	Width: 72.6 in. (184 cm)
Height: 49.1 in. (124 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268 cm)
Curb Weight: 3208 lbs (1455 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 22.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 6.2L 16 valve OHV V8	Displacement: 378 cu in
Horsepower: 430 HP	Max RPM: 5900 RPM
Torque: 424 lb-ft @ 4600 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 4.1 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Convertible	MSRP: $54,045; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy
Option:Grand Sport Coupe	MSRP: $55,045; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy
Option:Grand Sport Convertible	MSRP: $59,045; MPG: 16 city / 26 hwy
Option:Corvette Z06 7.0L V8	MSRP: $74,375; MPG: 15 city / 24 hwy

The 2011 Subaru Impreza holds several unique features that will make it a noteworthy option despite a huge number of releases this year. It incorporates a number of changes particularly on the tech features such as all Impreza trim levels except the base models have standard equipments with an updated audio system that features iPod integration and Bluetooth connectivity. It has a lot of cargo space, comfortable interior and good performance. Impreza is a great budget option for people who need all-wheel drive small car which is great for any road driving condition.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $17,495.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (64 liters)	MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.3 in. (458 cm)	Width: 68.5 in. (174 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.1 in. (261 cm)
Curb Weight: 3075 lbs (1394 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.1 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve SOHC 4 Cylinder	Displacement: 2.5 liter
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Impreza Premium 2.5i	MSRP: $18,495; MPG: 20 city / 27 hwy
Option:Impreza Outback Sport	MSRP: $19,995; MPG: 20 city / 26 hwy
Option:Impreza WRX Turbo Charged	MSRP: $25,495; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy
Option:Impreza WRX Limited STI Turbo Charged	MSRP: $37,345; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy

Performance

The Subaru Impreza is an all-wheel, four-door, 5-passenger family sedan or wagon that comes in four trims namely 2.5i, 2.5i Premium, Outback Sport and 2.5GT. The 2.5 and Outback trims are equipped with a standard 2.5-liter V4, 170-horsepower engine that has a fuel economy of 20-mpg in the city and 27-mpg in the highway. This is subsequently below average for a small car with this type of power. A standard five-speed manual transmission and an optional four-speed automatic transmission are available on the Impreza.

The 2011 Impreza is also available in WRX Performance trim which has a turbocharged version of the 2.5 that can achieve 265-horsepower and 224-pound feet of torque. The transmission is a five-speed manual only on this trim model. The acceleration capacity can achieve 60 mph within 5.3 seconds with fuel economy of 18 in the city and 25 in the highway. The WRX STI is even more powerful boosting up to 305-horsepower and 290-pound feet of torque. It has standard six-speed manual transmission that has a fuel economy of 17 in the city and 23 in the highway. The acceleration capacity can reaches sixty mph in 4.5 seconds.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior features of the 2011 Subaru Impreza has some notable change. It has widened tires to provide better traction on the road. A new body kit has been built and come with more aggressive lines. Although the Impreza gets mixed reviews from automotive press for styling, it generally gets good reviews. However, some find the sedan model to be boring.

The interior aspect of the vehicle has a roomy cabin space with enough head and leg-room. The cabin can max with a size of 44 cubic feet of cargo space. The quality of the materials is not topnotch but it is not poor either. Seat on the 2.5i models suffers from lack of telescoping steering wheel. This type of steering wheel is available only in the WRX and higher trims. The seats are much better on the performance-oriented models.

On the tech aspect, the stereo and climate controls are simple and straight forward. An optional navigation system which can be more user-friendly can be installed. However, the sound quality of the stereo system, even the upgraded ones is not that impressive. Additional features are air conditioning, power windows and mirrors.

Safety & Reliability

The standard all-wheel drive of the Impreza is one of its safety features. It has a dynamic control and traction control system making it better equipped than its competitors. It also includes stability control, front-seat side airbags, side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes and front head restraints.

The federal government tests scored the 2011 Impreza a perfect five stars both for frontal crash protection and front occupants in a side crash while in the rear occupants in a side crash test, it scored four stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave the Impreza a top rating in the frontal-offset, side-impact crash and roof strength tests.

Reliability rating of the Impreza is impressive with 7.0 out of 10.0 Predicted Reliability rating done by the J.D. Powers. This score is based specifically on Vehicle Dependability Study (VHS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS).

The Competition

There are less expensive cars with comparable safety scores compared to the Impreza. However, the Impreza is less equipped compared to its competitor. The Suzuki SX4 (MSRP $13,499; 23 city / 33 hwy) is also an all-wheel drive but is lesser in price than the Impreza. However, the Suzuki model has lesser safety ratings compared to the Subaru model. Another competitor is the Mazda3 (MSRP $15,800; 25 city / 33 hwy) which also has a lesser price and has a better fuel economy.

Pros:

• Impressive acceleration capacity
• Standard All-wheel drive
• Good handling and precise driving
• Long list of standard safety features

Cons:

• Bad quality stereo system
• Fuel economy is bad compared to its competitors
• High priced compared to its competitors

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“If you can see past cut-rate cabin materials, the 2011 Subaru Impreza is a comfortable, roomy, and refined, small car in sedan or hatchback form.”Car Connection

“The Impreza’s engine provides adequate acceleration, but the four-speed automatic isn’t as slick as those from some competitors. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Subaru Impreza’s impressive performance and range of styles make it an appealing choice for a wide variety of compact car consumers.”Edmunds

“The Subaru Impreza is a uniquely reliable and capable compact car.”KBB