The 2011 Mazda CX-9 is a great looking midsize SUV that ranks #1 of among affordable vehicles in its class. If you are looking for a car where your family will all fit but want to have fun driving it, Mazda CX-9 should be the one you choose. Sport, Grand Touring, and Touring trims are the CX-9’s available in 2011. With a DOHC V6 3.7-liter engine, the CX-9 is the best crossover that can accommodate seven people.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Midsize SUV	Base Price: $29,135.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20.1 gallons (76 liters)	MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 200.0 in. (508 cm)	Width: 76.2 in. (193.5 cm)
Height: 68 in. (172.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.2 in. (287.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 4330 lbs (1964 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.0 in. (20 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 17.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L 24-Valve DOHC V6 w/ VVT	Displacement: 3726 cc
Horsepower: 273 HP	Max RPM: 6250 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 8.0 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:CX-9 Touring	MSRP: $31,055; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:CX-9 Grand Touring	MSRP: $33,145; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy

Performance

Mazda CX-9 features a 3.7 –liter engine with a DOHC V6. This engine is driven by an automatic six-speed transmission. The engine generates a maximum power of 273 HP and a torque value of 270 ft lb. In any situation, the Mazda CX-9 has the power and the transmission is very responsive. Another strong feature of this car, it runs smoothly and lightly on the road. It feels like you are driving a small car but with seven available seats.

Exterior

Many commented that among the crossovers of seven seats, the CX-9 has a better sporty look and smooth lines. The car looks small considering it can accommodate seven occupants. The windshield has perfect slope and the roofline is tapered such that it look like the wind polished it.

Interior

The 2011 CX-9 truly showcases a glamorous interior design. Other standard features like Bluetooth and keyless entry with remote are also incorporated in the construction of this car. Many positive remarks are given about how nice and comfortable the seats are of CX-9 especially the middle row.

Other optional features are integrated like the heated seats and the camera at the rear-view. The interior design carefully thought of such that the occupants will be comfortable while enjoying the ride.

Safety

The 2011 Mazda CX-9 hasn’t undergone crash tests, yet it is the same in build and product engineering as the 2010 CX-9 model. The 2010 model of CX-9 received the highest rating (5 out of 5 stars) for the front and side impact protection. Rollover scores for the all-wheel and front-wheel drive is 4 out of 5 stars.

On the other hand, a “Good” remark was given to CX-9 by the insurance industry for the test given to check the front and side protection of the car from an impact. Another safety feature included is the monitoring system for the blind spot. This system is designed to give a signal when another vehicle is detected to be approaching and closing in the car’s blind spot.

Reliability

The reliability score of Mazda CX-9 is 6 out of 10. This rating is given by J.D. Power and Associates. Purchase of this car entitles you the basic warranty (3-year/36,000 mile). This midsize SUV is also covered by the power-train warranty (5-year/60,000 mile), road assistance (3-year/36,000 mile), and the rust warranty for 5-year/unlimited mileage.

The Competition

There are other midsize SUVs like CX-9 that can also accommodate seven occupants. Ford Flex (MSRP $29,355; 17 city / 24 hwy) is one. But the Ford Flex has a feature that the CX-9 doesn’t offer. The Ford features an optional refrigerator that would be perfect in keeping your beverage and snacks cold. Ford also offers a more comfy seat for your two big kids in the third row.

If you want an SUV that can seat seven, choose a Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy). It is a tad cheaper than the CX-9. The Highlander has a less classy interior design and it’s not that fun to drive around but it provides you better fuel economy.

Pros & Cons

What is great with this SUV is it can accommodate a family with seven members and it has a spacious cargo area. The car provides you a great performance and a fun driving experience. The exterior is thoroughly designed for a sporty look. You can save a little of your money since you will spend less for the fuel of this car. However, all these good points come with a high price than its competitors.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mazda CX-9 can carry seven in comfort, but it loves curves more than almost any other roomy crossover.”Car Connection

“The steering feels slightly numb on center but is nicely weighted while cornering. CX-9 exhibits some body lean in fast turns. A tidy turning radius makes it easy to maneuver in tight spots, a surprise given this crossover’s large overall size.”Consumer Guide

“This SUV shares the Ford Edge platform, but is quieter, more agile, and has a nicer interior.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Mazda CX-9 offers everything the typical family-friendly crossover does, plus a dash of spice in the form of driving excitement.”Edmunds

“Three years and a boatload of awards later, the 2011 CX-9 has successful accomplished Mazda’s master plan, offering everything a growing family needs in a car and still looking cool while doing it.”KBB

Sport utility trucks are a curious breed. They are almost a fusion of an SUV and a pickup truck. As a compromise between a truck and a SUV, it depends on the needs of the prospective owner if it is going to work. Chevrolet has an offering that perhaps people would take a look at: the 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche.

Interior & Exterior

The 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche is more or less similar to the 2010 model. With the exception of some minor changes, it is still essentially the same. Its exterior is nice, successfully treading the line between SUV and pickup and somehow managing to win both fan bases. It has smooth lines and a distinctive front end that makes it stand out from its competition style wise. In addition, it has a lot of utilitarian features. It has a folding midgate that increases cargo space by about 3 feet, and cargo bins found at the bed that is useful for stashing small equipment such as tools. And with the optional tonneau cover, its versatility can only be increased.

On the interior, while it is not quite luxurious enough, is still good enough considering its price. It has base features that most of its competition doesn’t even have as options. Both the front and rear seats are benches, but the front seats can be transformed into bucket seats if requested. Because of this configuration, 6 people can sit in this car comfortably. It is spacious, but accessing the interior can be difficult for small people partly due to its high ride height.

It has an audio system that has AM/FM/CD/MP3 function with an auxiliary jack for other audio devices. It even has luxury functions such as rear seat audio controls, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. Standard safety equipment includes traction control, anti lock brakes, and daytime running lamps. However, there are safety issues in this car as it was found that there is up to 22 percent chance that this car is going to be involved in a rollover when doing evasive moves.

Performance

There is only one engine and transmission option for the Chevrolet Avalanche. The 5.3 liter V8 engine that produces 320 horsepower and a six speed automatic gearbox is the combination of choice for this car. The engine is capable of fairly modest fuel economy stats, and it can even run on E85 fuel. This car can be either had in 2 wheel drive or 4 wheel drive with a new 2 speed transfer case.

People find that the power relay is smooth, and the force produced is adequate. In fact, it can tow up to 8100 pounds and haul up to 1600 pounds, probably not elite level stats, but is more than enough to beat most pickup trucks and satisfy demanding owners. As for the handling department, it is not exactly expected to steer well, but the ride quality is excellent, and can take the punishment from the road with confidence. The steering is done well enough that it can respond even in tight corners, and the brakes are responsive.

The Competition

There are two other sports utility truck that may be worth looking at and comparing the Avalanche to, the Ford F-150 Supercrew XLT (MSRP $32,260; 15 city / 21 hwy) and the Toyota Tundra (MSRP $25,795; 15 city / 19 hwy). As with the Avalanche, these other vehicles have V8 engines but have considerably less horsepower, at the same time cost less than the Chevrolet Avalanche. Depending on how you look at it, you can certainly make a case for any one of these excellent trucks.

Pros & Cons

People appreciate the fact that it is versatile, comfortable, utilitarian in approach, comes with a lot of much appreciated (and unexpected) features, and performs strongly. On the downside, some find it tough to maneuver and park due to its size and that its rearward visibility is horrible.

In conclusion, the Chevrolet Avalanche has managed to combine the strong points of both an SUV and a pickup, though it might be more like a pickup in manners and performance. It brings a lot of bang for the buck, and is surely going to be a good companion for the driver that likes utility.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The poster child for truck flexibility, the 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche flip-flops from six-seater to full-size pickup at the tilt of its midgate.”Car Connection

“The steering has good feel, though effort is somewhat high during low-speed maneuvers. The brakes are responsive, with a short, firm pedal stroke. Avalanche, a long truck with a sizable turning radius, is a challenge to park in tight spaces.”Consumer Guide

“The ride is comfortable and quiet. The 5.3-liter V8 provides decent acceleration but is thirsty . There is a very large rear blind zone.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Higher price than regular crew-cab pickups; large size and rear-quarter blind spots hinder maneuverability in tight spots.”Edmunds

“With its versatile Midgate configuration, the 2011 Avalanche can be set up to carry long loads (including four-by-eight-foot plywood sheets) or, with rear seatbacks raised, to hold a full complement of passengers.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Fullsize Pick-Up Truck	Base Price: $36,720.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117 liters)	MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 221.3 in. (562 cm)	Width: 79.1 in. (200 cm)
Height: 76.6 in. (194.5 cm)	Wheel Base: 130 in. (330 cm)
Curb Weight: 5564 lbs (2523 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.1 in. (23 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 45.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 5.3L 16-valve OHV V8	Displacement: 325 cu in
Horsepower: 320 HP	Max RPM: 5400 RPM
Torque: 335 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
Max Towing Capacity: 8100 lbs (3674 kgs)	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Avalanche LT	MSRP: $39,405; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Avalance LTZ	MSRP: $46,195; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Avalanche LT 4×4	MSRP: $42,455; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy
Option:Avalance LTZ 4×4	MSRP: $49,500; MPG: 15 city / 21 hwy

Infiniti is known as the luxury division of Nissan. Primarily created to take on Acura and Lexus (which not quite coincidentally, are owned by Nissan rivals Honda and Toyota, respectively), they aim to produce high quality luxury cars that just about anyone would appreciate. Of course, in any luxury brand, they should have an elite level full size 4 door sedan. And Infiniti has one, the Infiniti M.

Exterior & Interior

Of course, first impressions are most often made from first looks. And its exterior, for better or for worse, is uniquely Infiniti. Some even say that it resembles the well received as the G, only that the M is larger in size. People like its sexy shape, and its organic and flowing curves are something that is appreciated by car nuts. And together with the 18 inch wheels (20 inch wheels are optional equipment), it is more than enough to create an aggressive stance.

The interior proves to be just as impressive as the exterior, as everything about it can satisfy even the most demanding of drivers. The quality of the trim is top notch, with wood and leather generously splashed on the car. The seating, even though some may find that rear headroom is a bit compromised, are excellent and supportive. There are a lot of electronics available, with the centerpiece being a much simpler user interface for functions such as navigation and entertainment.

Performance

As for the performance, this is where the Infiniti M shines. There are 2 engine options available for the M Series , a 3700 cc V6 (the same engine used for the Infiniti G37 sports car) that produces 330 horsepower, and the 5600 cc V8 engine (the same engine used for the Infiniti QX56 SUV) that produces 420 horsepower. Power is transmitted to the rear wheels, though 4 wheel drive comes optional.

There is only a single transmission offered for both engine options: a seven speed automatic gearbox with 4 modes: economy, normal, sport, and snow. Both engines have fuel economy that ranges in between 16 to 24 miles per gallon, depending on the driving situation. With a greatly sorted out suspension and brakes, it is expected to be one of the best handling cars in its class. But it can only get better once an optional sports package is equipped, which features among others: 20 inch wheels, a sport tuned suspension, larger brakes, and even 4 wheel steering.

The Competition

The M is designed to take on vaunted rivals such as the Lexus GS350 (MSRP $46,900; 19 city / 26 hwy) and the BMW 5 Series (MSRP $45,050; 22 city / 32 hwy), just to name a few.

Pros & Cons

There is a lot of positive feedback with regards to the Infiniti M Series. People have appreciated its sporty exterior, but it is more than matched by the stupendous performance credentials of this car. The V6 engine is claimed to be more than a match for this car, but the V8 engine provides this car with awesome performance numbers. Acceleration comes extremely quick, and because of its suspension settings, it can handle much better than most of its competition. The interior is also well received because of its spaciousness, the simplicity of its controls, and the build quality.

Of course, it has its limitations too. People claim that the 4 wheel drive system, while it enhances grip and stability, deducts points from the fuel economy and maneuverability standpoint. Also, the trunk is deemed to be just average, and the rear seats may not exactly be for everyone.

Overall Rating
86 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Infiniti M sedans are on a mission: to erase some of the distance shoppers put between the German super sedans and Nissan’s most luxurious and powerful four-doors.”Car Connection

“Even base models exhibit a sporty feel, with good steering response and well-controlled body lean in fast turns.”Consumer Guide

“The Infiniti M37x is truly a remarkable car, not only for the driving experience but for the available technology, which is second to none.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Strong performance; engaging handling; many high-tech features; classy interior; hybrid model’s high fuel economy.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $47,050.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75 liters)	MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 194.7 in. (494.5 cm)	Width: 72.6 in. (184 cm)
Height: 59.1 in. (150 cm)	Wheel Base: 114.2 in. (290 cm)
Curb Weight: 3858 lbs (1750 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.0 in. (15 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.7L DOHC 24-Valve V6	Displacement: 3696 cc
Horsepower: 360 HP	Max RPM: 7000 RPM
Torque: 270 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic w/ ASC
0-60 mph: 4.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 150 mph (241 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2012 M37	MSRP: $47,700; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy
Option:M37x AWD	MSRP: $49,850; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:M Hybrid	MSRP: $53,700; MPG: 27 city / 32 hwy
Option:M56	MSRP: $59,100; MPG: 16 city / 24 hwy
Option:M56x AWD	MSRP: $61,600; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

The 2011 Mazda3 is the perfect choice if you want a small car that is affordable and has a good design and performance. Mazda3 is a small car that can accommodate 5 people and ensures that the first row occupants will feel comfortable. The installed engine can produce great power thus it can also result to greater torque and acceleration. This small car from Mazda is one of the top of its class.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact Sedan	Base Price: $15,800.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (54.8 liters)	MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 180.7 in. (458 cm)	Width: 69.1 in. (175.5 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263 cm)
Curb Weight: 2859 lbs (1296 kg)	Ground Clearance: 4.7 in. (11.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.0L 16-valve DOHC 4 cylinder w/ VVT	Displacement: 1999 cc
Horsepower: 148 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 135 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual w/ OD

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Mazda3 iSport	MSRP: $16,705; MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy
Option:Mazda3 iTouring	MSRP: $18,100; MPG: 25 city / 33 hwy
Option:Mazda3 s Sport	MSRP: $19,545; MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy
Option:Mazda3 s Grand Touring	MSRP: $22,510; MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy

Performance

The Mazda3 receive good reviews about its performance. Many cited that the engines are in good condition and the suspension is perfect. Braking and handling of this small car is very smooth and easy. Great acceleration can be produced by a four-cylinder 2.0L engine or a 2.5L engine. The 2.0L engine can generate 148 horsepower and can produce a torque of 135 ft lb while the 2.5L engine have 167 horsepower and can produce 168 ft lb of torque. With Mazda3, you have three transmissions to choose from: the automatic five-speed transmission, the five-speed manual transmission, or the six-speed manual transmission. The braking of 3 is very great. Braking and steering is very stable and precise.

Exterior

The theme of the Mazda3 style is aerodynamic. Many loved the aerodynamic appeal but others don’t like the front grill that looks like its grinning. The roofline of the Mazda 3 is sporty and the rear deck is blunt. The exterior includes a grille that has five-points and the headlights are installed at the corners such that it flows organically. There are delicate creases that run from the hood up to the windshield. The overall tone of the exterior design is set by the front’s aggressive appeal.

Interior

One factor why many buyers consider the Mazda 3 is the great interior design. The front seats are comfortable. The interior is adorned with elegant materials and each material is well-made. The seat on the second row is not very spacious so children will perfectly fit in. The interior also includes an instrument panel that is driver-centric. The optional features that are added to the Mazda3 are the automatic control for climate that is dual-zone, Bluetooth, and a sound system that is Bose surround, has 10 speakers and comes with an AudioPilot. A radio satellite (Sirius) is also an option.

Safety

Federal government already tested the safety equipment of Mazda3. For the test of front crash, 3 receive the top score (five star) while it received lower scores for the rollover and the test for side crash which is four and two stars respectively.

On the other hand, insurance industry gave the Mazda 3 the highest rating “Good” for each test-the side impact, the front crash, the rear impact, and roof strength. Insurance industry also lauded Mazda3becasue it incorporated the standard stability control which is electronic. Other safety equipment of the Mazda 3 are the stability control, traction control, the anti lock brakes, and the air bags for the side and front impact.

Reliability

The 2011 Mazda3 received an expected reliability rating of 6 with 10 as the highest rating. This rating is given by J.D. Power based on the data of the dependability and the initial historical quality from the previous three years.

The Competition

There are only a few cars that can be compared with Mazda3. The Mazda3 is said to be a fun to drive and sporty vehicle. You can also check Honda Civic (MSRP $15,805; 26 city / 34 hwy). Honda Civic has a good performance when driven but it is more expensive than 3. Another small car that can equal or surpass 3 is Ford Fiesta (MSRP $13,200; 28 city / 37 hwy). It has great interior design and you’ll experience excellent driving.

Pros & Cons

You can expect that you’ll have fun driving the 2011 Mazda3. With great handling and braking, surely you’ll have no problem when you are on the road. The high quality materials used to construct this small car gives a feeling of high-quality or elegance.

The Mazda3 is packed with features that anyone would like to have in a small car and it’s yours to enjoy at an affordable price. The only drawback of the exterior design is its grill that looks goofy. The controls are also a bit complicated to manipulate and the navigation screen is very small.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Mazda3 provides more driving enjoyment than most other small-car models, along with a stylish, racy look; but with a tight, noisy cabin, it’s not without compromise.”Car Connection

“The s models are also among the best in class, but i versions are no slouches either. Any 3 is confident, exhibiting little body lean, though i versions have more than s models. Steering feel is accurate and responsive, and the brakes have excellent pedal feel and control.”Consumer Guide

“Handling is precise and sporty. Interior quality is very good. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Mazda 3 provides more driving enjoyment and greater refinement than its affordable price tag would suggest. If you’re shopping for a small, inexpensive sedan or hatchback, it should be at the top of your list.”Edmunds

“The 2011 Mazda3 provides the performance of a more expensive sports sedan with the interior quality of some mid-level luxury cars.”KBB

Hyundai has recently impressed many people as it redesigns one of its most popular cars, the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe.

Equipped with performance upgrades, the Genesis Coupe showcases more aggressive styling and improved materials and design.

Both V6 and 4-cylinder engines benefit from the enhancement, with the V6 receiving a direct-injection technology and the 4-cylinder engine now upgraded to a more sophisticated twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler. The car is also equipped with an automatic transmission and paddle-shift manual shifting capability. Blue Link is also available for the 2013 Genesis Coupe, providing you with a wide range of “infotainment” services to choose from, meeting your every connectivity need.

Performance

The highlight of this car is the 3.8-liter V6 engine. It produces an incredible 348 horsepower with 296 lb-ft of torque from the previous 306 and 266 respectively. The 2.0T model even gains 64 horsepower as it goes from 210 hp to 274 with its torque consequently going to 275 pound-feet from the original 223.

Interior & Exterior

It showcases seven new exterior colors and more gradients for the interior. Even the slightest upgrades are noticeable as many have been re-calibrated, which includes: the steering rack, front strut camber, and new damper settings. The Genesis Coupe has enhanced its overall interior design with more distinct upscale features and designs. The instrument panel crash pad now has a stitched-seam appearance giving it an upscale look.

The real story behind the Genesis Coupe lies under its hood. With the improvements it has, the 2013 Hyundai Genesis Coupe is more likely to win hearts in the ever increasing field of sports coupes. Dating a few years back, a handful of automakers had written off this model. However, with all its improvements, the Genesis Coupe is the most capable and affordable for all enthusiast-focused models.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $23,500.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.2 gallons (65 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 182.3 in. (463 cm)	Wheel Base: 111.0 in. (281 cm)
Height: 54.5 in. (138 cm)	Width: 73.4 in. (186 cm)
Curb Weight: 3294 lbs (1494 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 10 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve DOHC 4 Cylinder	Displacement: 2.0 Liter
Horsepower: 274 HP	Compression Ratio: 9.4: 1
Torque: 275 lb-ft	Transmission: 8-Speed Manual