The 2011 Cadillac Converj ELR Concept was designed as the successor to the previous 2009 Candillac Converj by the American car manufacturer, General Motors. The Cadillac Converj’s first appearance was at the North American International Auto Show in 2009 held in Detroit, Michigan. The Converj was also recognized with numerous awards for the design concept vehicle awarde by the Southeast Automotive Media Organization (SEAMO) in the very same year.

Performance

Cadillac ELR sport coupe is a 2-door, with Front-engine front-wheel body layout. This hybrid coupe is driven by an electric propulsion technology as compared to the GM Voltec platform of the 2009 Converj. Additional key features for the ELR model is the so called extended range capability of its storage batteries to go beyond the additional distance of a hundred kilometers. Thus, according to General Motors, other details of the ELR concept is currently on the development phases in term of the vehicle’s performance, production and prices will be announced later.

There have also been reports that prior to the debut of the Cadillac ELR, several issues were addressed to further enhance the on-going production of this model particularly the performance of hybrid electric motors. However, on the positive note, General Motors recently announced last August 2011 that it will continue the production plan for the Cadillac ELR as scheduled. This innovative design and state of the art engineering makes the ELR model one of its class ever built in the car manufacturing industry to develop a hybrid sports car.

Full sized SUVs are one of the most competitive segments in the car market, especially when it comes to upscale models. Luxury SUVs have been the choice for those who are able to afford them, primarily because of its size and style. And Infiniti, the luxury division of Nissan, has their own SUV to contend in this tough segment. And based on what people say, it is one of the best. Meet the 2011 Infiniti QX56.

Exterior & Interior

Looking at the exterior, the QX56 looks very rugged. This suits just about right for an SUV of its size. For 2011, it has undergone a redesign, perhaps due to its perception of being way too similar to the Nissan Armada. Now, it has sleeker styling, with curves and other innovative cues that became characteristic of the Infiniti cars of this generation. It is dashingly aggressive, which most people actually like.

While the opinions regarding the exterior are still split, opinions about the interior are unanimous. It is a winner in many areas. There are 3 rows of seats in the QX56. The front and middle row occupants are promised to have a comfortable ride because the seats are abundant in space and cushioning. In addition, the trim, composed of leather and wood, is an upgrade compared to the cheap looking exterior of the past QX56s. And while the electronics are relatively tough to learn, it is loaded with features such as a premium sound system, climate control, Bluetooth, and Infiniti’s proprietary Around View System, which allows the driver to see a 360 degree view of the car’s surroundings.

Trunk space, while deemed to be average, should be more than enough for most people. 19.3 cubic feet of space is available if all 3 rows of seats are in use, and up to 112 cubic feet is available if the 2nd and 3rd rows are folded.

Performance

Power for the Infinity QX56 comes from Infiniti’s trusty 5.6 liter V8 engine. With output rated at 400 horsepower and 413 lb/ft, it can sprint and haul with the best of them. The biggest improvement for the engine is the addition of direct injection. Coupled with a 7 speed automatic transmission that is standard equipment for this car, it brings about better performance and fuel economy. Speed builds up almost effortlessly, and you’ll even be surprised to see yourself hovering around the 100 miles an hour without even breaking a sweat. In addition, fuel economy is rated to range from 14 to 20 miles a gallon. Though this can be considered poor, it is an upgrade from the previous model, and is just about par with its opponents in the SUV market. Both 2 wheel drive and 4 wheel drive drive-train options are available.

The Competition

There are three other SUVs that come to mind should you decide to make comparisons against the QX56, all of which fall in the same class. They are: the Cadillac Escalade (MSRP $63,455; 14 city / 18 hwy), Lincoln Navigator (MSRP $57,630; 14 city / 20 hwy), and the Mercedes Benz GL Class (MSRP $61,950; 13 city / 18 hwy). Each is unique in its own way, but definitely worth considering when comparing it against the Infiniti QX56.

Pros & Cons

The reviews of this car are mixed, but they are mostly positive, praising that the 2011 QX56 is an upgrade over the past model. The exterior is well sorted out, and it brings a much needed identity for an otherwise good yet bland car. The interior is everything that you can ask for on a luxury SUV, and the third row seat is good enough for more than just kids.

An updated engine and transmission allows for better economy and power, and even boasts a towing capacity of over 8000 pounds. On the bad side is that, while it handles well, drivers may not like its relative lack of feedback and feel, and there are some styling cues (most notably the front fender vents and the long rear bumper cover) are deemed to be unnecessary.

All in all, the Infiniti QX56 is perhaps the best that the SUV market has to offer. Armed with a lot of equipment that can put its opponents to shame, it is a serious car worth your consideration if you want a high end full sized SUV.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“It’s hard to find a duty the QX56 can’t handle—transporting the masses or pleasing the purists.”Car Connection

“Though big, QX56 feels relatively nimble for its size, at least on the highway and suburban streets. Straight line stability is good, and the steering offers reasonable feel for such a large SUV. Braking control is fine.”Consumer Guide

“The QX feels cumbersome even in everyday driving and disconcerting when pushed to its limits. Electronic safety aids include lane-departure and blind-spot warning systems, and a panoramic rear-view camera.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Plentiful features, both standard and optional; powerful V8; handles great for its size.”Edmunds

Specifications

If you are planning on investing in a new car, then the 2011 Subaru Tribeca would be an excellent choice. This is the perfect vehicle for you if your primary consideration when investing in a new vehicle is safety.

As a matter of fact, this is the perfect choice when it comes to vehicle safety because its safety credentials are first class. More so, Subaru’s excellent reputation in safety is even coupled with handling that will deliver under all types of weather.

Specifications

Thus, with this version of the Subaru Tribeca, you can be assured that you and your family will not only enjoy a comfortable ride, a safe trip is also awaiting you as well. This is a midsize SUV with a capacity for seven people. However, if you want something that is friendly to the budget, then you may have a problem with the 2011 Tribeca because it costs a little more than what you may want to spend.

Performance

Under the hood, you will find a V6 engine with six cylinders that is capable of 3.6 liters. This is then complemented by up to 247 lb-feet of torque as well as 256 horsepower. While it is true that this engine can give a performance that is essentially the same as the competitors of this model; this model is also unique in such a way that

It also boasts of good handling. As a matter of fact, this is considered by many as one of the best assets of this vehicle. It has better steering as compared to other models. At the same time, it easily follows your steering. Thus, you can be assured that it will run smoothly even during sharp curves. It also comes with an automatic transmission of five speeds and this can also be shifter manually if you wish so.

The 2011 Tribeca also boasts of an all-wheel drive system as its standard. However, one commonly reported disadvantage about this vehicle’s performance is the fact that it rates poorly when it comes to fuel economy.

Exterior & Interior

When it comes to the exterior, this version of the Subaru Tribeca is considered to be upscale. Some reviews say that it is sleek and curvy. But it is bordering more on the safe side. In short, there is nothing remarkable about the exterior of the vehicle. But yes, it does look good and sleek. It is just enough for you not to get noticed when driving it. It is essentially an improvement of the so-called ugly features of the previous versions.

On the other hand, the interior is an entirely different story. If there is nothing much to notice about the exterior of the Subaru Tribeca, a lot of raves have been given regarding the interior styling and features of this years model.

For instance, there are those which say that the interior styling and design of the 2011 model actually looks futuristic. The details are paid attention to and the ambient lighting is really good. However, there are those which say that the materials in the interior give a somewhat cheap appeal.

But overall, the cabin is considered to be well equipped as well as stylish. The equipment inside are pretty much easy to use. The high technology options are also pretty good and expensive. In terms of cargo and storage space, this model has been getting good reviews as the space seems to be adequate.

Safety & Reliability

In terms of safety, this model is actually a top pick. It is one of the safest vehicles out there. As a matter of fact, it has gained the title “Top Safety Pick”. There are a lot of standard equipment for safety as well.

And finally, in terms of reliability, this model got 7 out of a total of 10. And this is actually not bad. The 2011 Subaru Tribeca also comes with a basic warranty of 36,000 miles or three years as well as a powertrain warranty of 60,000 miles or five years.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“With the 2011 Subaru Tribeca, first-class safety credentials and excellent all-weather handling ensure your precious ones are looked after, but if you need more than five seats, we suggest going with a bigger vehicle.”Car Connection

“Handling response is more minivan than high-body midsize wagon. Tight turns require slowing down, but cornering lean is moderate for this vehicle’s height and weight. Steering is responsive if a bit numb, and Tribeca has a wide turning radius for its size.”Consumer Guide

“ The 2011 Subaru Tribeca has a few things going for it in the form of all-weather capability and a distinctive interior, but in the end, other midsize crossover SUVs present better alternatives.”Edmunds

“The Tribeca has an impressive ride and handling balance.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“If you need room for seven adults, the Tribeca’s child-sized third-row seat falls short, and the Tribeca’s side-curtain airbags do not extend to protect the third-row passengers.”KBB

On August 17, 2011, a press release made for the unveiling of the new race-inspired 2011 Lotus Evora GTE Road Car Concept was held at McCall’s Motorwork exhibit at Monterey Jet Center. As a background, the Lotus Evora sport car model was launched during the British International Motor show on 22 July 2008 held every two years at the United Kingdom. The British car manufacturer car plant is located at Hethel, Norfolk, England. In 2009, the Evora was awarded as Britain’s Best Driver’s Car by Autocar, a well known British base car magazine.

One of the significant highlights during the event is that for the Lotus car to compete and participate for qualification requirements for the GTE in a race category of the well-renowned 24- hour Le Mans Tour. Indeed, after unveiling the Evora GTE Road car Concept held from 18-20 August 2011 at the Peter Hay Hill, Pebble Beach.

Performance

The 2011 Lotus Evora is a rear mid-engine coupe powered by a V6 engine with a maximum performance output over 420hp that could outclass other mid engine category. This coupe available either in 6 speed manual or automatic transmission. For the interior design and layout, it configures with a 2 plus 2 passenger body style and it can fit a driver or passenger an average height of 6’5”. The British base car manufacturer aims target sales production for an average of 2000 cars annually.

Specifications

*based on 2011 Lotus Evora S

Cadillac has always been known for its full sized cars. It has created a lot of legends under this segment, and has helped make Cadillac an automotive icon. Nowadays, the main contender for the full sized car market that is now having a diverse set of competitors is the 2011 Cadillac STS. A spiritual successor to the legendary Cadillac Seville (STS stands for Seville Touring Sedan), it is now the representative of Cadillac in the tight luxury full size sedan arms race.

Specifications

Exterior & Interior

For starters, the Cadillac STS has a defined identity when it comes to its exterior. A recipient of the “Art and Science” design ethos, it is very edgy and would incite thoughts of sportiness. The large grill, rectangular lights, and predominantly straight/polygonal lines are very Cadillac, hence endowing it with the necessary identity that is almost like a prerequisite to dominate this class. Some even find that the large chrome grille is a salute to the classic Cadillac cars that came before it. However, all these radical styling seemed to have substance, and hence, fans liked it for that.

Going into the interior, it had some mixed reviews. While the seats are firm, some find that it might be too firm, lacking the support needed to give a comfortable ride. In addition, while the front seats are very much great, the rear seats are often an object of scorn from people who owned this car. In short, some people find that the rear seats lack space for full sized people, a disappointing characteristic given the size of this car. Standard equipment include climate control, a Bose sound system, power front seats, and rear parking assist.

It is also praised for making controls simple. Another object for concern is the limited trunk space. With only 13.8 cubic feet of space, it is beaten soundly by its competition in this department. Standard safety equipment includes front and side air bags, anti-lock brakes, and traction and stability control. Optional safety equipment includes blind spot monitoring and lane departure warning systems.

Performance

While luxury cars are sometimes driven by chauffeurs, the Cadillac STS seem to be like the type of car that the owner would actually like to drive. For 2011, there is only one engine option available, a 3.6 liter V6 engine equipped with variable valve timing that is capable of producing 302 horsepower. It is mated with only one transmission, a 6 speed automatic gearbox with an option wherein the driver can shift manually if he/she desires. It is also equipped with a sport tuned suspension and strong brakes, endowing it with great handling characteristics. A lot would enjoy the superior balance of this car despite it having a steering system that some people find to be too light.

By the way…

Now, based on the aforementioned information given earlier, we would try to find the reasons why and why should you not own the Cadillac STS. First, the reasons why you should consider this car. The biggest thing working in its favor is that it is a true driver’s car. It is one of the best performing cars in its class, thanks to its combination of a sharp suspension, an adequate engine, and powerful brakes. This is a car that you’ll enjoy driving more than most full sized luxury sedans.

Another thing going for it is its looks. Cadillac in general has really got it right on the styling department, and the STS is a beneficiary. However, if there are things that are not working in the STS’s favor, it is the overall space. Lack of rear seat and trunk room could doom this car to failure. And some find the trim used for this car to be cheap compared to its competition.

All in all, the Cadillac STS is one soulful ride. It may not be the best there is, but it sure had soul. It has a personality of its own, and that should be enough for it to win some potential owners.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“While it’s supposed to be a size class larger than the CTS, the STS doesn’t offer much more interior room than the entry-level Cadillac.”Car Connection

“Any STS corners with poise and modest body lean. Compared to midsize cars from BMW and Mercedes-Benz, however, the steering on this Cadillac feels somewhat vague and over assisted. Reassuring brakes provide short, straight stops.”Consumer Guide

“The ride is firm yet supple. Handling is taut and agile, and the cabin is quiet, but the rear seat is snug.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Cadillac STS is a well-rounded luxury sedan, but it’s also showing its age. Most other luxury sedans are now better choices.”Edmunds

“If you’re looking for V8-inspired power or bold styling that stands out in a crowd, the STS probably won’t impress you.”KBB