If you are looking for a pickup truck that is compact, then the 2011 Suzuki Equator is definitely the way to go. It has four trims for you to choose from. In the same manner, you also have the option to choose the Extended Cab as well as the Crew Cab models of this year’s version of the Suzuki Equator.

General Info

Vehicle Type: Pick Up Truck	Base Price: $17,595.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters)	MPG: 19 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 206.6 in. (524 cm)	Width: 72.8 in. (184 cm)
Height: 68.7 in. (174 cm)	Wheel Base: 125.9 in. (319 cm)
Curb Weight: 3686 lbs (1671 kg)	Ground Clearance: 7.6 in. (19 cm)
Cargo Capacity: 33.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve DOHC Inline-4	Displacement: 2.5 liter
Horsepower: 152 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 171 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1587 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Extended Cab Premium RWD	MSRP: $22,479; MPG: 17 city / 22 hwy
Option:Extended Cab Sport V6 4WD	MSRP: $25,979; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy
Option:CrewCab Sport V6RWD	MSRP: $25,279; MPG: 15 city / 20 hwy
Option:CrewCab Sport Long BedV6 4WD	MSRP: $28,279; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy
Option:CrewCab RMZ 4 V6 4WD	MSRP: $29,150; MPG: 14 city / 19 hwy

Performance

Under the hood, you actually have two options for the engine. One of which is an engine with four cylinders. This has a capacity for 2.5 liters. It is also capable for as much as 171 lb-feet of torque coupled with 152 horsepower. More so, this comes with a manual transmission of five speeds.

On the other hand, you can go for the V6 engine. Well, that is if you buy the crew cab as well as the 4WD versions. This engine has much more capacity at 4 liters. At the same time, it can give you as much as 281 lb-feet of torque as well as 261 horsepower. In terms of transmission, this model comes with an automatic transmission of five speeds.

If you want to use the Equator for towing, then you will be delighted to know that is capable of towing up to 6,300 pounds for the two-wheel drive versions. On the other hand, the 4WD option can tow up to 6,100 pounds.

As for the driving impression and performance, users seem to be satisfied with the performance of this baby on and off the road. However, there are those which complain about poor handling. But generally, the impression seems to be doing great.

Exterior & Interior

When it comes to the exterior, a lot of people actually find this model of the Suzuki Equator to be like the Nissan Frontier which is its competitor. Nonetheless, in terms of aesthetics, it seems that the 2011 Equator is actually lagging behind the tail.

However, that is not to say that the exterior styling and design of this model is a complete trash. As a matter of fact, this vehicle boasts of an in-bed cargo system which a lot of vehicle owners actually find to be useful. And this actually makes the task of hauling easier and faster.

As for the interior, it seems that Suzuki actually put more premium in practicality more than comfort. And this is not actually a bad thing. For instance, the materials used in the interior are easier to maintain more than stylish. The interior technological features are very much user-friendly as well. There are features for music, navigation and for other recreational purposes as well.

As for the seating capacity, the Equator can seat as much as 4 to 5 people depending on the version that you will get. While the front seats have been reported to be comfortable and adequate, there have been complaints when it comes to the rear seats which for some appear to be cramped.

The cargo capacity of this model has also been getting good reviews. As a matter of fact, this aspect seems to be making the best impression. Well, that is not really a surprise because the cargo area is fully equipped with not only practical but also innovative features.

Safety & Reliability

For safety, the manufacturers of this model made it a point to include standard features to ensure the well being of the passengers and users. Here are some of them for starters. There are airbags in the strategic and usual locations. This model also boasts of electronic brake controls.

Finally, however, this model actually scored poorly in terms of reliability according to the Predicted Reliability Rating provided by J. D. Power. It got a meager 4 out of a total of 10. Nonetheless, you will be pleased that this model still comes with a limited warranty of 36,000 miles or 3 years as well as a powertrain warranty of 100,000 miles or 7 years. And this is basically why a lot of people actually choose the 2011 Suzuki Equator than its competitor—the Nissan Frontier.

Overall Rating
63 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Suzuki Equator is a good match for weekend active types and busy hobbyists, thanks to its innovative cargo solutions and tough off-road ability.”Car Connection

“Handling is nicely balanced for a pickup truck. The steering feels weighty and direct, but is slow to react in tight turns and parking spots.”Consumer Guide

“Less backseat comfort than competitors; some desirable features only available on top trim level; regular-cab body style not available; limited dealer network.”Edmunds

“We have about one-hundred words, but we could do it in three: it’s a truck. With that as a given, the Equator and its Frontier twin are highly regarded for an extremely stiff – albeit heavy – chassis structure.”KBB

Mini Coopers are iconic cars that are known for their small and unique designs. The 2011 MINI Clubman which first joined the team in 2008 continues this Cooper tradition through its unique styling, fun-to-drive handling, and individuality.

The space issue associated with Mini Coopers is properly addressed by the Clubman by providing bigger dimensions- 10 inches longer to be exact resulting to a 50% increase in storage capacity and 2.5 inches more in terms of rear-seat legroom. Rear doors also give better rear seat access and easier cargo loading and unloading.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact Hatchback	Base Price: $21,800.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters)	MPG: 28 city / 35 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 155.9 in. (395 cm)	Width: 66.3 in. (168 cm)
Height: 56.1 in. (142 cm)	Wheel Base: 100.3 in. (254.7 cm)
Curb Weight: 2712 lbs (1230 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 9.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4	Displacement: 1.6 liters
Horsepower: 121 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 114 lb-ft @ 4250 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 8.9 seconds	Top Speed: 126 mph

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Cooper S Clubman

MSRP: $25,500; MPG: 27 city / 35 hwy

The additional space, although small by some people’s standard, is enough to make the Clubman the Big Man on the Block, at least as far as Mini Coopers go.

The 2011 Clubman has been given minor modifications in the form of a slight increase in power output, steering change to reduce torque steer under hard acceleration, and a slight change in the car’s exterior and interior make up. Additionally the 2011 model has a reworked radio controls and added sound insulation. HD and satellite radio are now standard while adaptive headlights are offered as an option.

Performance

The 2011 Clubman base model has a 1.6L in-line 4 engine that cranks 121hp power and 114 lb-ft of torque with a six-speed manual transmission, and a six-speed automatic with manual shift control as an option. The Clubman S packs a turbocharged version that gives 181hp and 177lb-ft of torque. Moreover, the John Cooper Works model is able to put out an impressive 208hp and 192lb-ft of torque.

Mini Cooper is saying that the Clubman base model with manual transmission will accelerate from 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds, while the automatic version will do this in 10.2 seconds. The Clubman S is decidedly faster reaching 60mph in just 6.8 seconds or 7.1 seconds for the automatic. JCW model does this in 6.5 seconds.

A manual base Clubman has an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg in city driving and 35 mpg in highway driving or 31 mpg combined. Automatic version gives a 27/36/30 fuel consumption rate. The S variant’s fuel consumption is pegged at 27/36 for manual and 26/34 for automatic, while the John Cooper Works model’s is 25/33.

Interior & Exterior

The MINI Clubman is a two-door hatchback with four seats. It features a passenger-side reverse-opening door. Instead of a rear lift gate as what can be found in regular Minis, the Clubman has a pair of outward-swinging doors at the back.

Available for the Clubman are three trim levels: the base Clubman, Cooper Clubman S and John Cooper Works.
The base Clubman has 15-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, keyless entry, full power accessories, cruise control, leather wrapped tilt-and-telescoping multifunction steering wheel, trip computer, six-speaker audio system, HD and satellite radio, auxiliary jack as standard offerings.

On the other hand, the Clubman S has a more powerful engine, dual exhausts, firmer suspension tuning, alloy pedals, sport seats, fog lights, and run-flat 16-inch wheels. The John Cooper Works variant has even more power, 17-inch wheels, Brembo brakes, and cloth upholstery.

Various options for upgrade are available like a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround sound audio system, keyless ignition/entry, Bluetooth and iPod interface among others.

Safety & Reliability

ABS, front seat side airbags, curtain airbags, and stability control are all standard. Stopping distance has been measured at 112 feet.

The 2011 Clubman is protected by Mini Cooper’s four year/50,000 basic warranty.

Pros & Cons

The Clubman’s biggest asset is still the fact that it has the Mini Cooper pedigree, because no matter what one may say about the car, there are hordes of fans of this marque out there. Simply put, some people will buy the Clubman because it is a Mini Cooper.

On its own merits, The 2011 Clubman is immensely fun to drive and it is roomier than the regular Cooper.

It also boasts of excellent fuel economy and its highly customizable Retro British style that features modern BMW engineering and design is surely a plus for this car.

While the Clubman is indeed roomier than a regular Cooper, the added room may still not be enough for most people.

Additionally, the suspension system may be a bit stiff for some and it tends to be quite noisy on the highway.

Some of the car’s interior controls are not so great either, as well as its base stereo which tends to be weak.

Competition

People interested in the 2011 MINI Clubman may also look at other cars like the Mazdaspeed 3 or Audi 3 (MSRP $27,270; 21 city / 30 hwy) as a basis for comparison.

The Mazdaspeed 3 (MSRP $23,700; 18 city / 25 hwy) in particular may deserve closer scrutiny as it has more power while still offering that extra space at a lesser price.

Ironically, the Clubman’s biggest competition may come from its own backyard- the 2011 Mini Countryman.

Although not the roomiest car in the market, the Clubman marries unique styling with superb and reliable performance.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“A big-bodied extrovert, the 2011 MINI Cooper Clubman’s the most desirable MINI for anyone beyond their single stage of life.”Car Connection

“Minis turn on a dime with outstanding steering response.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman has all the personality and fun of the standard Mini Cooper, along with added space and practicality.”Edmunds

“Like its stablemates, the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman offers subtle exterior styling changes, slight bumps in power from its two available engines and the addition of HD and satellite radio to the list of standard features.”KBB

The Bentley Continental made its name over the years for its strong combination of luxury, performance, and uniqueness. It is one of the most desirable cars in the world, that’s why all eyes are on it when the second generation of this car came out at the 2010 Frankfurt Auto Show. The 2012 Bentley Continental GTC picks up where the popular 4 seater convertible left off. It has the same styling cues from its GT (the coupe version) sibling, minus the roof, of course.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Convertible	Base Price: $205,600.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons (90 liters)	MPG: 10 city / 17 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 189.1 in. (480 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (192.7 cm)
Height: 55 in. (139.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.1 in. (274.5 cm)
Curb Weight: 5560 lbs (2565 kg)	Maximum Seating: 4

Performance

Engine: W12 Twin Turbocharged	Horsepower: 567 HP
Displacement: 5998 cc	Compression Ratio: 9.0: 1
Torque: 516 lb-ft	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.5 seconds	Top Speed: 195 mph (312 km/h)

Interior & Exterior

It is constructed by Bentley engineers by providing maximum quality as its top priority. The second generation GTC is more muscular in appearance than the model it replaced, thanks to a more aggressive stance and sharper lines. New 21 inch wheels further accentuates this car’s shift to becoming a sportier convertible, as well as increasing track, improving the potential of better handling.

The handcrafted interior is more spacious and luxurious. The combination of leather, wood and metal all exude quality that is very well sorted out. In addition, buyers can customize the interior according to their tastes, and Bentley’s expert craftspeople will do it for them.

Performance

When it comes to performance, it is also a leap forward from the first generation. It is still equipped with the same W12 turbocharged engine, but output is increased to 567 horsepower and 516 lb/ft of torque. Coupled with a transmission capable of faster gear changes, it makes the Continental GTC’s performance all the more compelling.

All in all, the second generation Bentley Continental GTC is a great leap forward. Improving in virtually all aspects, it brought the already-impressive Bentley sports car to another level.

Hyundai is fast becoming America’s favorite car. In March this year, America took the number one spot for Hyundai global sales. It’s not a surprise since Hyundai’s design is improving a lot, as evidenced by the 2012 Hyundai Accent.

It is redesigned and many people agree that it looks more attractive than the outgoing version. It also has a more powerful engine with higher economy ratings, and a roomy interior with more features compared to the outgoing model. The best part of the deal, however, is the price. With these whopping new features, it still managed to maintain an inexpensive base price of $13,000.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan/Hatchback	Base Price: $14,195.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.4 gallons (43 liters)	MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 172 in. (436 cm)	Width: 66.9 in. (169 cm)
Height: 57.1 in. (145 cm)	Wheel Base: 101.2 in. (257 cm)
Curb Weight: 2396 lbs (608.5 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 13.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4	Displacement: 1.6 liters
Horsepower: 138 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 123 lb-ft @ 4850 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16.0 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Accent GS	MSRP: $14,595; MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy
Option:Accent SE	MSRP: $15,795; MPG: 30 city / 40 hwy

Performance

The 2012 Accent makes use of Hyundai’s “Fluidic Sculpture” design philosophy, making it look extra sophisticated and elegant. Fluidic Sculpture is being used in all of Hyundai’s lineup. The 2012 Hyundai Accent has a 1.6 L, 4 cylinder engine, like the outgoing model. Unlike the outgoing model, though, this engine is tuned to be more powerful. The Hyundai Accent also has the standard anti-lock brakes and electronic stability, and coupled with 138 horsepower, more reviewers are keen to say that its serious competitors like Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta should take notice.

Interior & Exterior

The interiors are also rated well. Unlike the outgoing model, the 2012 Accent’s interior is not made of cheap plastic. The interior of this car looks and feels more luxurious. It is roomy and it is power-packed with features: Bluetooth and connectivity and satellite radio. The stereo has six speakers, and auxiliary input jacks. It also has adjustable active front head rests, tilting steering wheel, adjustable driver’s seat (6-way), front, front-side and two row curtain airbags.

There are also a lot of storage places, and Hyundai claims that their glove box beats other cars in the same market such as the Chevy Aveo (MSRP $11,965; 27 city / 37 hwy), Honda Fit (MSRP $15,175; 27 city / 33 hwy) and the Ford Fiesta (MSRP $13,200; 29 city / 30 hwy). The sedan has a total interior area of 13.7 cubic feet while the five-door hatchbacks offer as much as 47.5 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded. If the seats are used, the usable area is 21.2. For comparative purposes, the Ford Fiesta can hold 26 cubic feet when the rear is folded.

The exterior of the car is proving to be a good upgrade from the outgoing model’s exterior. People say that the hatchback model is cute enough to be the fiercest competitor of the equally cute Ford Fiesta. It also comes with a variety of colors to suit any person’s personality, which is quite good because it can suit the tastes of the teenager, the young parent or the senior citizen.

The fuel economy ratings are also one the best features of this car. At 30/40 mpg city/highway, it is indeed a fuel sipping car! Compared to other cars in its class like the Honda Fit and Ford Fiesta, this car is the most efficient. This is perfect for today’s environmentally conscious times, as well as its 138 horsepower engine (with 123 pound foot of torque). It’s functional yet at the same time, budget friendly. The 1.6 liter 4 cylinder engine could be paired with the 6-speed manual or the 6-speed automatic.

Safety & Warranty

In safety, the Hyundai Accent features anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution, vehicle stability management and brake assist. Unlike the previous year, the 2012 model features a tire pressure monitoring system and electronic stability control, which are government mandated.

The 2012 Accent is covered by the Hyundai Assurance Trade-In Value, which is basically a program that predicts how much your Hyundai will be worth after two years. It also has the longest warranty in is class with the power train warranty going for as long as ten years or 100,000 miles, whichever comes first. The new vehicle warranty can go for five years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. It also has a 7-year coverage for perforation and corrosion and five years of unlimited 24-hour roadside assistance.

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Do Americans want small cars with more room and great gas mileage? The 2012 Hyundai Accent is betting they do–and so are we.”Car Connection

“The sporty SE model displays a modicum of body lean in fast turns, and steering feel isn’t sports-car sharp. Still, it feels nimble enough to be mildly entertaining to drive.”Consumer Guide

“Larger, sharper and more fuel-efficient, the redesigned 2012 Hyundai Accent deserves buyer consideration as an affordable, stylish new car.”Edmunds

Smart cars evoke different kinds of reactions from the motoring public. Some plainly hate them and are annoyed by their rather flimsy looking appearance that has the potential to easily crumple by the slightest impact or collision. Moreover, those who are fans of smart cars complain of the “struggle” the car makes when going uphill or when driven hard.

Those who love smart cars rave about the ease of using such small cars in a city environment where parking space, traffic congestion, and excessive fuel consumptions are always a source of headaches. And the smart car’s diminutive size is exactly what these people appreciate, referring to it as cute and fun to drive.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Small Coupe	Base Price: $12,490.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 8.7 gallons (32.9 liters)	MPG: 33 city / 41 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 106.1 in. (269 cm)	Width: 61.3 in. (155.7 cm)
Height: 60.7 in. (154 cm)	Wheel Base: 73.5 in. (186.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 1808 lbs (820 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 7.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 12-valve DOHC inline-3	Displacement: 1.0 liters
Horsepower: 70 HP	Max RPM: 5800 RPM
Torque: 68 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic-Manual
0-60 mph: 12.8 seconds	Maximum Speed: 90 mph (144.8 km/h)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Passion Coupe	MSRP: $14,690; MPG: 33 city / 41 hwy
Option:Passion Cabriolet	MSRP: $17,690; MPG: 33 city / 41 hwy
Option:Electric Drive	MSRP: Lease; MPG: NA city / NA hwy

The 2011 Smart Fortwo boasts of a revamped interior and exterior as well as an engine that offers more environmentally friendly features. On top of that, tridion safety cells in white, and cabrio soft tops in either red or blue have now been added as an option. Additionally, LED daytime driving lights and new alloy wheels give the motorist more chances to customize this smart car. The redesigned cockpit and the availability of new fabric and colors as well as a communication and entertainment systems that feature today’s cutting edge technology all contribute to giving this car a fresh and updated look.

Exterior & Interior

Customers can now choose from seven different exterior colors instead of six. This includes matte light green and light blue metallic which replaces the old blue metallic color. They may also choose to customize their new Smart Fortwo by having the front spoiler, side skirts and rear apron painted in the body color of their choice.

The cabrio soft top colors are also now available in red and blue, as well as the tridion safety cell being offered in brilliant white. The door mirror surrounds and radiator grilles are painted in white as well, giving the new Smart Fortwo an entirely revamped facia when combined with the white tridion safety cells.

Other options available are LED daytime driving lights and new 15 inch alloy wheels.
The new 2011 Smart Fortwo has also been given a new interior design as an option to buyers.
The instrument panel features full-fabric cover treatment using new styles and fabric designs. These new features include a redesigned dials with contrasting dark central disc in the dashboard panels and instrument clusters.

Moreover, options like a 3-spoke leather wrapped steering wheel that features cruise control and trip computer, dimmable LED ambient lighting, and a fabric-covered folding center armrest are available for customers who may want to customize their new car even further.

Like most cars these days, new 2011 Smart Fortwo features the latest in communication and entertainment system for the car. Its 16.9 cm multimedia audio system also doubles as the car’s navigation system. Bluetooth and USB connectivity options, as well as AUX input to control an iPod or MP3 player are likewise standard. A Smart Drive Kit specifically designed for iPhone may also prove useful for iPhone users.

A surround sound system powered by an 8 channel digital amplifier that provides 40 watts of power is also available as an option.

Performance

Available in 40 kW cdi turbodiesel,(emission:86 g/km) 52 kW mhd petrol (emission: 97 g/km, fuel consumption: 4.2 L/100km) and 62 kW petrol (emission: 97 g/km, fuel consumption: 4.9 L/100km) engines.

Performance wise, power is 27hp which can be cranked up to 40hp in short bursts with 88.5 lb-ft of torque.

Acceleration from 0-37mph (0-60kph) is 6.5 seconds with a top speed 62mph and driving range of 84 miles out of a single charge from a 16.5 kW battery pack.
Charging time is 8 hours for a 220-volt connection.

Pros

The 2011 Smart Fortwo is fun to drive. It has a unique exterior that may give it that never-before-seen-car look. And its interior provides comfortable seating and is spacious enough considering its size. Its small size enables you to squeeze in the tightest of parking spots.

Cons

Its small size may already be a turn off for a lot of people. It only seats two and there are not a lot of storage spaces to go by.

Those who prefer smaller cars on the other hand, might be put off by its price. Imagine the Fortwo starts at $12,000 which is okay for a small car. However, the Fortwo comes at the barest of necessities at this price. At $12,000 the 2011 Smart Fortwo doesn’t come with air conditioning, audio system, power windows, and forget about Bluetooth or any other form of connectivity options! There are simply other smaller cars at this price that features all these amenities and more.

In terms of performance, the Fortwo doesn’t impress either. It’s slow to accelerate and the transmission is not smooth enough. And although its high fuel economy rating of 33/41 mpg city/highway may look impressive, its demand for premium fuel is not good for the budget conscious driver.

And then of course there are safety issues which are inherent to small cars.

Competition

When you compare it other small car players in the market such as the Ford Fiesta (MSRP $15,500; 28 city / 37 hwy) and the Mazda 2 (MSRP $14,180; 29 city / 35 hwy), you simply know that you have better options than the Fortwo.

For a little over the price that the Fortwo is asking, you can get a Mazda 2 for instance- it may cost a little more but you get more space and better amenities as well.

The Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy) is another alternative to the Fortwo. The Fit offers a better safety record and is more reliable on the road.

As was previously mentioned at the start of this article, smart cars are a “love it or hate it” affair. And this cannot be truer in the case of the 2011 Smart Fortwo.

But hey, love it or hate it right? If you are just looking for a fun car to drive around the city and you don’t mind all the minuses against this car, then the 2011 Smart Fortwo may just be right for you.

Overall Rating
60 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Smart Fortwo is at its best on congested urban streets; at highway speeds its less-secure feel becomes a liability in several ways.”Car Connection

“Light, accurate steering contributes to an almost sporty demeanor, though some testers complain of tippy sensations in corners.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Smart Fortwo is a capable city car, but its high price, eccentric transmission and unpleasant highway ride should be enough to drive shoppers to other, more well-rounded small cars.”Edmunds