Pickup trucks have always been one of the better selling segments in the automotive market. Combining car-like space, truck-like performance, and a huge space at the back, they are one of the most versatile vehicles available. This is why every manufacturer has a bet on this segment, offering various amenities such as performance, comfort, off-road ability, hauling strength, and cargo space just to name a few.

Some car companies claim that their truck is the “Cadillac of pickup trucks”, apparently as a salute to this brand’s attention to detail and luxurious appointments. Cadillac has responded with a pickup truck of their own. Bringing together what’s great in a Cadillac and infusing that in a pickup truck’s frame. The end result is the 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $62,160.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 31 gallons (117 liters)	MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 222 in. (564 cm)	Width: 79.1 in. (200 cm)
Height: 74.5 in. (189 cm)	Wheel Base: 130 in. (330 cm)
Curb Weight: 5858 lbs (2657 kg)	Ground Clearance: 9.2 in. (23 cm)
Max. Cargo Capacity: 45.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 6 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve OHV	Displacement: 6.2 liters
Horsepower: 403 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 417 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: NA	Max Towing Capacity: 7600 lbs (3447kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:EXT Luxury	MSRP: $67,350; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:EXT Premium	MSRP: $69,740; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy

Exterior & Interior

We should first take note of the exterior, which garners some mixed reviews. This car is essentially a repackaged Escalade, with the rear end transformed into a truck bed. With an innovative folding midgate, you can expand the length of the bed from 5 feet 3 inches to a full 8 feet. The only drawback of this midgate feature is that it exposes the cabin to the elements and necessitates folding the rear seats; hence it reduces the seating to just 2. Still, you can find it useful if the need arises.

Moving up to the interior, it gained a lot of positive reviews, saying that it is a legitimate Cadillac inside. The interior is sprinkled with a generous amount of leather and wood trim, giving it an aura that is legitimately Cadillac. It can seat up to 5 people, but capacity is reduced into 2 if the midgate is in use. Standard equipment includes a navigation system, a rearview camera, and adjustable pedals just to name a few. Additional optional equipment includes an entertainment system, a sunroof, and retractable running boards.

Performance

It is no secret that the Cadillac Escalade EXT is a heavy vehicle. So does that mean that performance is compromised? Well, not exactly, because Cadillac has made an effort to make it performs well. It is endowed with the same 6.2 liter V8 found at the ordinary Escalade, and it generates some serious power. Output is rated at 403 horsepower, endowing this car with some surprising push and acceleration.

It is equipped with the same 6 speed automatic transmission used in the Escalade, and 4 wheel drives comes as standard equipment. This combination is going to bring out a fuel economy rating of 13 miles per gallon during city driving and 18 miles per gallon during highway driving. Low numbers for sure, but those are figures that you expect when owning a full sized SUV. Brakes and steering are also deemed to be excellent, but it could have been better considering the heavy weight of this car.

Pros & Cons

So what are the pros and cons on the Escalade EXT? First, we are going to first talk about its strong points. The innovative midgate feature, while using it can be likened to using a double edged blade, it is a very useful feature to expand your luggage capacity, useful for hauling large amounts of payload. In addition, it has all the luxurious amenities you’ve come to expect in a Cadillac. And to top it all off, the looks of this car is a winner. However, people may not appreciate the weight compromising an otherwise capably handling truck, its poor fuel mileage, and its quirky reputation as something between being utilitarian and non-utilitarian.

All in all, the Cadillac Escalade EXT may just the true “Cadillac of pickup trucks”, depending on what you feel about it. It may not have the versatility or capability of a true pickup truck, but its qualities, namely luxury, style, and speed, makes it a worthy contender on the luxury truck market, and that vacant space in your garage.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“While the Escalade EXT is, to the objective eye, just a luxed-out version of theChevrolet Avalanche, it’s arguably much more.”Car Connection

“The Cadillac Escalade EXT owns the full-size luxury sport-utility-truck segment with its distinctive style, luxurious appointments, versatility and commanding V8 performance. Then again, it’s the only full-size, luxury sport-utility truck.”Edmunds

“If you don’t need the convenience of a third-row seat, the 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT offers all the interior amenities of its SUV cousin, but with the added capability of a pickup truck bed.”KBB

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is a large, rugged, powerful off-road vehicle similar in concept to the Land Rover Defender or Hummer H2, and like those vehicles is used by military operators in various countries, as well as being available for sale to the general public for recreational purposes. It has been in production in Graz, Austria since 1979. The G stands for Gelandewagen, German for “land car”.

Performance

The G-Class has several engine options, the G 350 CDI BlueTEC, a 224 hp 3-liter V6 turbo-diesel, and the G500 5.4 liter DOHC 32-valve V8 gasoline engine producing 382hp in the G550 SUV model, or 507 hp in the supercharged G55 AMG version.

Plenty of horsepower for those who want to take this 2.5 ton vehicle off-road, and more for those who have the budget to afford it. The BlueTEC engine has an intriguing device which injects a urea solution into the exhaust to reduce emissions.

Not surprisingly, given that a heavy vehicle like this can always use more horsepower, the G55 engine is being phased out next year in favor of a bigger G65 twin-turbocharged 6-liter V12 engine already being used in other Mercedes-Benz AMG models such as the S65 and CL65. If you didn’t know, AMG is the high-spec, high-performance division of Mercedes-Benz which makes cars for those who are willing and able to pay that little bit extra for a special Mercedes with some extra style and punch.

Interior & Exterior

The exterior of the G-Class, as befits a military-based vehicle, is a boxy, no-nonsense design which hasn’t changed much in the last 32 years. It has a higher driving position than most other SUV’s thanks to its massive ground clearance and height, and comes in both SWB and LWB (short and long wheelbase) versions.

It is also very roomy and well appointed, if not as modern as more recent vehicles. With seats folded, the luggage capacity is 45.2 cu ft, not bad for a vehicle which in SWB form is both shorter and narrower than the more modern M-Class Merc. With all the mod-cons such as GPS satellite navigation, climate control, voice control, multimedia sound system with 4GB hard drive and iPod/MP3 capability, not to mention burl walnut wood trim, leather upholstery, power seats and more, there’s not too much missing from this luxury vehicle, except of course a budget price, but it IS a Mercedes-Benz after all.

Safety

When it comes to safety, Mercedes has a reputation to uphold, so the G-Class comes equipped
with an 8-way airbag system, ETS traction control, ABS antilock braking, BAS Brake Assist System, rear view camera, rear Park Assist, rain-sensing wipers, headlamp washers, tire pressure monitoring, and more.

Interestingly, the Mercedes-Benz G-Class is the only SUV with 3 lockable differentials, which enhances its off-road capability by using the 3rd diff to balance the power distribution between front and rear axles, keeping the vehicle moving even if the wheels at one end lose contact with the ground in rough terrain.

The Competition

Comparison with other vehicles such as the Range Rover (MSRP $78,835; 12 city / 18 hwy), Toyota Land Cruiser (MSRP $69,120; 13 city / 18 hwy) is difficult as the G-Class is a unique vehicle. Built to a price, its strengths are build quality, power, German precision, and off-road ability.

It is more expensive than any of those vehicles, so depending on what you are looking for, you might choose a Toyota if you want more technology at a lower price, a Range Rover if you want better off-road skills, or the Hummer if you prefer American style and toughness for less dollars.

Pros & Cons

So it is fair to say that anyone who would choose a Mercedes sedan over other brands would go for a G-Class if they are happy to compromise on style and comfort in comparison with the M-class while getting an optimal off-road vehicle.

The pros and cons are pretty simple: great power versus poor fuel economy, huge interior room vs dated slab-sided looks, premium luxury and creature comforts vs a hefty price tag, and lastly, the indefinable brand and status of Mercedes-Benz vs the anonymity of driving say a Mitsubishi or a Toyota for a lower price.

You choose – the G-Class is a unique proposition and will appeal to a select group of buyer, those with the budget and taste for a German luxury 4-wheel drive with extra off-road skills and character.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“While many SUVs make the transition into the car-based crossover world, the military-grade Mercedes-Benz G-Class trundles on with its planar body, fantastically powerful engine choices, and downright miserable fuel economy.”Car Connection

“Buying a 2011 Mercedes-Benz G-Class makes little rational sense. But its massive power, luxurious cabin and tanklike presence make it strangely desirable if you’ve got a few bucks to burn.”Edmunds

“If you like the old-school ruggedness of what SUV’s used to be but also demand high levels of performance and finish, you should definitely look at the G550. If you like the G550 and worship at the altar of “more,” consider the G55 AMG.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $105,750.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.4 gallons (96 liters)	MPG: 11 city / 15 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 184.5 in. (468 cm)	Wheel Base: 112.2 in. (285 cm)
Height: 76 in. (193 cm)	Width: 71.8 in. (182 cm)
Curb Weight: 5662 lbs (2568 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.3 in. (21 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 45.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 5.5L 32-valve DOHC V8	Displacement: 5461 cc
Horsepower: 382 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 2800-4800 rpm	Transmission: 7-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1587 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:G-Class G55 AMG 500HP

MSRP: $124,450; MPG: 11 city / 13 hwy

The 2011 Mazda Tribute is one of the 23 compact SUVs that is reasonably priced. The four-cylinder 2.5-L engine or the V6 3.0-L engine paired with responsive transmissions can generate adequate acceleration. The Tribute would be best for family who loves to have a spacious rear seats. Though the interior is poorly designed, you’ll reconsider Tribute since it has better fuel economy.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $20,555.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons (66 liters)	MPG: 23 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.9 in. (444 cm)	Width: 71.1 in. (180.5 cm)
Height: 67.9 in. (172 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.1 in. (261.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3272 lbs (1484 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.4 in. (21 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 31.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5 liter 16-Valve DOHC 4-Cylinder VVT	Displacement: 2488 liters cc
Horsepower: 171 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.0 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 1500 lbs (680 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Tribute iTouring FWD Auto	MSRP: $23,740; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Tribute iGrand Touring FWD Auto	MSRP: $25,700; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy
Option:Tribute s Grand Touring FWD Auto	MSRP: $27,315; MPG: 19 city / 25 hwy

Performance

Most reviews about the performance of the Mazda Tribute are lukewarm. When you buy a Tribute, you have two options for your engine. You can choose a 3.0-L engine V6 of 240-horsepower or a base engine four cylinder 2.5-L with 171-horsepower. The engine can be installed with a five-speed manual transmission or with a six-speed automatic transmission that is shiftable.

The acceleration that both engine produce are just sufficient though when compared with other SUV rivals, both engine are underpowered. The performance of Tribute that buyers must look into is its potential to reduce your budget for the fuel. Though other compact SUV is easy to handle than the Tribute, but it’s a good thing that handling tribute is not that bad. Another good feature, there is smooth transmission shift and it quickly recover to generate more power.

Exterior

The exterior design of the Mazda Tribute didn’t have much deviation from the previous models but it has a one or two feature that anyone would love. It has an integrated lift-gate window that can be flipped up. Another exterior feature that is advantage for family’s that are always on the go is the fuel filler that is capless.

Interior

If you love unique interior designs, the Tribute will surely suit your taste. The interior of Tribute has a good build quality but the design is not up-to-date. Five passengers can comfortably occupy the Tribute. Occupants of the rear seats will be more comfortable because it is spacious. Others may also find rear seats uncomfortable to occupy since the seats have upright position and you cannot adjust it automatically.

Other integrated interior features include the audio system (AM/FM/CD), a keyless entry with a remote, a steering wheel that is slightly tilted, and a power lock for the doors and windows. The cargo that can be held by the Tribute is more than what Tucson can accommodate. Tribute can accommodate a cargo of 31.4 cubic feet.

Safety

The safety features of 2011 Mazda Tribute is the same with the 2010 model thus they must have the same score in terms of safety. When the protection of all passengers is tested for the side and frontal crashes, a score of 5 stars was given. The rollover score of Tribute 2010 is three stars. When Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) tested the rear, side, and front protection, they gave a remark of “Good”.

When it comes to testing the strength of the roof, it is found that the Tribute lacks strength. The rating it obtained is only “marginal”. Safety features that are standard for an SUV are all integrated in the Mazda Tribute. Few of those features are airbags for the side and front impact, control system for the traction, control for dynamic stability, and control for roll stability.

Reliability

The reliability rating of the 2011 Mazda Tribute is only 50%. This reliability rating is only predicted and given by J.D. Power. The rating is based on the previous three years of the historical quality (initial) and the data of dependability gathered from the automotive studies of J.D. Power and Associates.

The Competition

the Tribute has almost the same platform as the Ford Escape (MSRP $21,240; 23 city / 28 hwy). In terms of the interior design, the Escape is better than Tribute and it has also good electronics. If you want a compact SUV but has lower price than Tribute, Hyundai Tucson (MSRP $19,045; 20 city / 27 hwy) is a good choice. Aside from having a lower price, Tucson has longer warranty, better economy of fuel, and packed with more features that standard for an SUV.

Pros & Cons

The Mazda Tribute is the best SUV when it comes to cars that have better fuel economy. It is also good in terms of its drive train because it is very responsive. You can expect a very good up-shift and a responsive downshift. Another characteristic of the Mazda Tribute that you might like is it has rear seats that are spacious.

The passengers in the rear will surely enjoy the ride since they can stretch their legs comfortably. The downside of the 2011 Tribute is there are only limited options of the design of the car. The pedal of the brake is also hard to manage because it is spongy sometimes. If you are the type who wants to have an SUV that has extravagant interior, then the Tribute is not the one for you. The materials used in the interior are not of top quality and are dated.

Overall Rating
67 out of 100

What others say:

“There’s not much “zoom zoom” in the Tribute’s handling, which also doesn’t suffer too much from typical trucky SUV feel.”Car Connection

“The steering feels overboosted and numb, especially at low speeds. A tidy turning radius helps in low-speed maneuvering.”Consumer Guide

“Fit and finish is unimpressive and the car is noisy.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“Feels old compared to rivals; poor braking performance; lacks high-tech features of crossover competitors; rear seat doesn’t slide or recline.”Edmunds

If you are planning on investing in a new car for your family, the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi is an excellent choice. As a matter of fact, some reviews say that this is the best car from the automobile manufacturer Suzuki to date.

Yes, it is a small sedan, but its sophistication and wonderful styling make it the apple of the eye of many reviewers and users. This vehicle is actually available in five trim levels so you actually have quite a number of options to choose from.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $18,999.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.6 gallons (62 liters)	MPG: 21 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 183.1 in. (465 cm)	Width: 71.7 in. (182 cm)
Height: 58.3 in. (148 cm)	Wheel Base: 106.3 in. (270 cm)
Curb Weight: 3241 lbs (1470 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.3 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve DOHC Inline 4	Displacement: 2.4 liter
Horsepower: 185 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 170 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds	1/4 Mile: 15.8 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Kizashi SE FWD/CVT	MSRP: $22,049; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:Kizashi Sport GTS FWD/CVT	MSRP: $24,149; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:Kizashi Sport SLS FWD/CVT	MSRP: $25,949; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:Kizashi S AWD/CVT	MSRP: $22,099; MPG: 23 city / 30 hwy
Option:Kizashi Sport GTS AWD/CVT	MSRP: $25,499; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy
Option:Kizashi Sport SLS AWD/CVT	MSRP: $27,299; MPG: 22 city / 29 hwy

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that the Kizashi is equipped with an engine with four cylinders. While this may not necessarily be the usual engine you will find in sports cars, the fact is a lot of reviewers actually say that this model is the sportiest car with four doors available in the market today.

This engine has a capacity for as much as 2.4 liters. For the manual transmission of 6 speeds, you can expect as much as 170 lb-feet of torque coupled with 185 horsepower from the Kizashi. On the other hand, if you want to go for the models with continuously variable transmission, you can expect as much as 180 horsepower.

Exterior & Interior

As for the exterior styling, a lot of reviewers and users say that the 2011 model of the Suzuki Kizashi actually falls somewhere between the safe and calm designs of midsize cars as well as the aggressive appeal of the sports sedans.

Actually, one of the assets of this car people love is the fact that it comes with finely tuned details. And these are actually the ones that make this car stand out as compared to average models. More than that, the manufacturers also made it a point to incorporate and tweak some of the assets of cars from other companies to add to the style of the 2011 Kizashi. While this may be a problem for some, there are also users and reviewers who appreciate the effort.

On the other hand, the interior design and styling of this model is another story. The cabin has been receiving great reviews. As a matter of fact, a lot of them say that the cabin is definitely stylish and upscale; thus, putting this model at a notch higher than the other cars in its class.

The materials used for the interior are definitely upscale, pleasing and comfortable as well. The surfaces are soft to the touch. The leather upholstery for its part is also considered as top-of-the-line. But when it comes to the seating capacity and space, some say that it may be too cramped as compared to the midsize sedans. The same is also true for the cargo. As a matter of fact, some reviews say that the trunk of the Suzuki Kizashi can be considered as among the smallest in its class or category.

However, when it comes to the interior features and technological devices, you will love the fact that the manufacturer made it a point to include a number of upscale features for more user convenience and comfort. However, some reviewers are still a bit disappointed with the navigation system of this model.

Safety

In terms of safety, you will still love the fact that the manufacturers made it a point to include the usual and expected standard features for safety of the vehicles from this class. For instance, all units from this model have electronic stability control as well as anti-lock brakes. Plus, this model is fully-equipped with 8 airbags that are considered as the leaders for this class.

Nonetheless, the result for reliability is a bit disappointing. In fact, it garnered only 4 out of a total of 10 in the Predicted Reliability Rating by J. D. Power. However, you can still be assured that the manufacturer gave the 2011 Suzuki Kizashi with a basic warranty of 36,000 miles or three years as well as a power train warranty of 100,000 miles or 7 years.

Overall Rating
77 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Kizashi is the best Suzuki car to date—a sophisticated and well-designed small sedan that’s a lot more fun to drive than most other compact sedans.”Car Connection

“Handling is crisp and composed with little body lean in fast corners. Communicative steering is precise and well weighted. Available all-wheel drive increases the car’s road-holding capabilities.”Consumer Guide

“The Kizashi is a sound and capable car but not quite the bargain sports sedan Suzuki markets it as.”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports

“The 2011 Suzuki Kizashi is one of the best midsize sedans on the market, but a limited dealer network has kept it out of the spotlight.”Edmunds

“If you prefer to exist (at least automotively) in relative anonymity, the Kizashi may generate too many questions at car washes, gas stations and high school reunions.”KBB

During the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance held at Pebble Beach, California, the new 2011 Cadillac Ciel was unveiled as one of the elegant design concept cars from General Motors developed by North Hollywood Design Center. The annual prestigious automotive event was organized in 1950, sponsored by the Sport Car Club of America.

This four-seat convertible concept car derived its name from a French word, which means sky. Its magnificent design gives you more space or leg room and luxury experience of enjoying an open air touring either for pleasures or leisure journey.

Performance

A cruise on the Ciel gives you accelerating power aided by a 3.6-liter V6 direct injection engine that could produce up to 425 horsepower and combined with an advance hybrid technology generated by its lithium-ion battery. Its 125 inch wheelbase uses a 22” alloy rims and brake motors made from carbon ceramic materials.

Exterior & Interior

The Ciel’s exterior is crafted without a glitch with visible accented body colors. The interior is complemented with handcrafted leather, machined alloy accessories and stylish olivewood panels. The display panel and control system are arranged with simplicity and base from its hierarchy. Its lighting system is fitted with and LED type headlamps and tail-lamps, which include a running light graphic design for daytime use.

The new 2011 Cadillac Ciel’s is a unique experience with the style of craftsmanship redefining the classic spirit of the driver at the modern era of car technology.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible

Est. Market Price: NA

Dimensions

Length: 203.7 in. (517 cm)

Wheel Base: 125 in. (317.5 cm)

Performance

Engine: 3.6-liter Twin Turbo V6	Horsepower: 425 HP
Torque: 430 lb-ft	Transmission: Hybrid