Since Land Rover’s inception in the late 1940’s, the company has continually produced “authentic” 4 wheel drive vehicles. Currently, Land Rover is part of the Jaguar-Land Rover group being managed by Tata Motors.

Freelander, Discovery, Range Rover Sport, Range Rover Evoque and the classic Range Rover are models that have dominated the worlds off road market. Perhaps the most prominent model in the company’s line up is the Defender.

Originally released for mass production in 1983, the latest concepts for this Land Rover classic will replace the current one in circulation. The Land Rover DC100 and DC100 Sport are expected to be in production by 2015 to succeed their 25 year-old Defender predecessor.

Performance

While the DC100 will be a conventional 3-door off-roader, the DC100 Sport is based after a 2-passenger pick-up design. Unlike the past Defender models, the DC100 Sport will feature a 100-inch wheelbase. A 2.0-liter petrol engine powers the massive yet sleek frame of this off-road vehicle.

The latest Defender model features state-of-the-art materials for efficient fuel consumption and optimal driving performance in all modes and driving conditions. Like the DC100, the DC100 Sport will also feature a Terrain-I scanning device for off-road obstacles, Wade air sonar technology for assessing water depth and the Land Rover Terrain Response System for increased vehicle optimization.

The DC100 sport aims to showcase the durability and effectiveness that have made Land Rover vehicles a renowned 4×4 manufacturer. Moreover, the DC100 Sport is intended to be a creative expression of leisure and independence.

The 2011 Nissan GT-R is known for its excellent performance which comes at a relatively inexpensive price. As a matter of fact, this model is among the vehicles which are the apple of the eye of many customers.

There is so much to love about this model. For one, it is very much easy to drive and handle. Even at high speeds. In fact, the acceleration is even considered by many as heart-stopping. The interior is very classy and definitely of high quality. On the other hand, there are customers who were dissatisfied with the fact that this model does not come with a manual transmission option. Some also find this model to be a bit big and bulky.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $84,060.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.5 gallons (73.8 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 15 city / 21 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 183.1 in. (465 cm)	Width: 74.9 in. (190 cm)
Height: 54 in. (137 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.4 in. (277.8 cm)
Curb Weight: 3829 lbs (1736.8 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 8.8 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve Turbocharger DOHC V6	Displacement: 3.8-liter
Horsepower: 485 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 434 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic-Manual
0-60 mph(2012): 2.9 seconds	1/4 Mile(2012): 11 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2012 GTR Premium	MSRP: $89,950; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy
Option:2012 GTR Black Edition	MSRP: $95,100; MPG: 16 city / 23 hwy

Performance

For the 2011 model, the GT-R has acquired certain changes and comebacks from the past. For instance, Nissan made it a point to return the suspension for the GT-R model to provide greater comfort for the vehicle’s user. For the exterior, the front and rear fascias have also been given double clear-coat paint. The rear cooling ducts have also been revised. The wheel center caps are now made even darker.

The headlights are now automatic. In the same manner, the windshield wipers are now speed-sensitive. Connectivity for different gadgets has also become a standard for this model. At the same time, the navigation system also experienced improvements.

Under the hood, you will find that this baby is fully equipped with a V6 engine which has a capacity for 3.8 liters. It can also give you as much as 485 horsepower and torque of 434 lb-feet. This model is also equipped with a transmission system that has six speeds and is a dual-clutch automated manual. The fuel economy of the 2011 GT-R exceeds expectations.

This car is actually known for its great performance. An excellent acceleration, sufficient electronic assistance and an impressive grip all rolled into one. Even the less-experienced driver will look like a pro with this model.

Interior & Exterior

As for the exterior, this model gets mixed reviews. There are those who find that the look of the 2011 model is bold, aggressive and handsome. But on the other hand, there are also reviewers who do not find this model’s exterior appealing at all. But when it comes to the design functionality, most people are really awed by the GT-R. Add to this, of course, the new exterior features that were mentioned earlier.

When it comes to the interior, there are still some things left to be desired for this model. For instance, there is still some shortage in the back seat room. However, it can be said that this model boats of an excellent interior. The cabin has a great fit and finish. The seats are also comfortable and the cargo room is expansive. In fact, it measures up until 8.8 cubic feet. But if you want more cargo room, you can check out its competitor which is the 2011 Dodge Viper.

A lot of reviews and satisfied customers also love the high-tech gadgets found inside this model such as the ones mentioned earlier.

Safety & Reliability

Though it has not really undergone crash tests by the federal government or insurance industry, your safety can still be assured by this model through its safety features which is a standard among all models, and technology. Some of them are the following. There are the dual-stage supplemental front airbags. There are also driver and front-passenger side-impact supplemental airbags.

But when it comes to reliability, this model got a meager score of 6.0 in a scale of10 in the Predicted Reliability rating given by the J.D. Power and Associates. As for the warranty details of the 2011 Nissan GT-R, they are yet to be released.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 GT-R achieves the unthinkable: It outraces some of the world’s top sports cars, at a fraction of their price.”Car Connection

“GT-R corners with little, if any, body lean especially at speeds suitable for public roads. The steering is well weighted, but demands near-constant attention because the tires tend to follow road grooves. The brakes are strong, but don’t have the instant-on response of other high-performance competitors.”Consumer Guide

“With the improved chassis and suspension, the GT-R is now capable of handling more power – which is a good thing since Nissan upped the power of the VR38DETT 3.8-liter twin turbo V6 to now produce 530 horsepower (versus the previous 485 horsepower) and 448 lb-ft of torque (versus the previous 434 lb-ft).”JD Power

“Heart-stopping acceleration, immensely capable handling, easy to drive fast, high-quality interior, bargain price.”Edmunds

Lexus is the U.S. brand name for the luxury car division of Toyota motors Inc. The 2011 Lexus ES is considered an upscale midsize car. The ES ranks 9 out of 21 with 1 being the highest and 21 being the lowest. This is based on more than fifty published works by reviewers, extensive product testing and specification analysis.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $36,725.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons (70 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191.1 in. (487 cm)	Width: 71.7 in. (182 cm)
Height: 56.3 in. (143 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277 cm)
Curb Weight: 3580 lbs (1635 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.5 in.(13.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6	Displacement: 3.5-liter
Horsepower: 268 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic, ECT-i
0-60 mph: 7.0 seconds	Maximum Speed: 137 mph (220 kmh)

Engine

The Lexus ES is available in one trim, front wheel drive automatic powered by a V6 3.5L/210 engine. Consumption for city driving is 19 miles per gallon and on the highway is 27miles. Price averages at a little more than $37,000.00.

Exterior & Interior

Many believe that Lexus styling is at its best with the ES which delivers clean lines and simple but elegant design. Deponents beg to disagree and some even call the exterior design bland and overly simple.

Interior design and material is where most reviewers rave about the Lexus ES, most reviewers agree that the ES’s cabin can compare and even rival higher end automobiles with its opulent design. Seating is very comfortable with the soft grained leather seats of the ES and no maker and model of its class can match the optional ventilated seats which can either be used as a heater or a cooler. This for less than $40,000.00

Safety

Lexus always places safety first, unfortunately the ES scores below expectations. The low safety score is mostly the fault of the LS’s poor performance in terms of rear crash tests. The good news is that the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the LS a “good” score in terms of front, side, roof strength and design.

Standard safety features includes:

• Advanced airbag system for driver and passengers that includes front and rear seat, front and rear curtain, knee airbags;
• Safety Connect, that informs emergency and rescue services of a crash when all occupants are; unconscious or incapacitated;
• Four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes with electronic brake-force distribution
• Electronic stability and traction control

Reliability

Another reliable vehicle from Lexus which garners an extremely high score is the Lexus ES. This score is based on three years data on the models reliability. Standard warranty is 4 years or 50,000 miles and six years or 70,000 miles power train warranty.

The Competition

If you like a sportier ride that is more exciting, you should look at the BMW 3 series (MSRP $34,600; 18 city / 28 hwy) and the Infinity G37 (MSRP $32,000; 20 city / 29 hwy). However these models cannot compare to the Lexus ES cabin. Advantages of the Lexus are excellent interior and a smooth and quite ride. Disadvantages are the lackluster exterior design and lack of driver response.

Overall Rating
83 out of 100

What others say:

“For those who value comfort and luxury—and still want the latest technology—but don’t need a sport sedan, the 2011 Lexus ES 350 is one of the best bets.”Car Connection

“ES 350 has competent front-drive behavior. But the ride-biased suspension tuning precludes the cornering poise of its sportier rivals. The steering filters out most road feel. Brake performance is good, though the pedal feels mushy in simulated panic stops.”Consumer Guide

“Powerful and velvety-smooth V6; plush ride; sumptuous interior; high-end luxury features available.”Edmunds

“The ES 350 is a solid and sedate sedan. The punchy powertrain delivers 23 mpg overall. The ride is very comfortable. Handling is not sporty but is ultimately secure. ”MSN-ConsumerReports

The Dodge Viper is back once again, this time sporting an enhanced look. This two-door sports car has more refined designs for comfort, incorporating sophisticated styling and rich interior design, outstanding utility while offering a pleasant and safe ride. Body styles are available in either Roadster or Coupe.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe	Base Price: $92,705.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16 gallons (60.5 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 22 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 175.7 in. (446 cm)	Width: 75.2 in. (191 cm)
Height: 48.6 in. (123 cm)	Wheel Base: 98.8 in. (250 cm)
Curb Weight: 3440 lbs (1560 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.1 in. (12.9 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2 people

Performance

Engine: 20-valve V10 OHV	Displacement: 8.4-liter
Horsepower: 600 HP	Max RPM: 6100 RPM
Torque: 560 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 3.6 seconds	1/4 Mile: 11.8 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SRT10 Final Edition	MSRP: $100,400; MPG: 13 city / 22 hwy
Option:SRT10 ACR	MSRP: $107,255; MPG: 13 city / 22 hwy
Option:SRT10 ACR Snakeskin ACR	MSRP: $110,055; MPG: 13 city / 22 hwy
Option:SRT10 Roadster	MSRP: $91,955; MPG: 13 city / 22 hwy
Option:SRT10 Roadster Final Edition	MSRP: $99,650; MPG: 13 city / 22 hwy

Performance

The 2010 Dodge Viper is powered by 8.4 liter V10 engine that generates 600 horsepower and 560 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed manual transmission was modified for faster, better maneuverability and more responsive shifting. Its EPA estimated rate is 13 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined.

Exterior

On its exterior, the Viper boasts of sleek lines and an aggressive stance, evoking a no-nonsense approach to performance. Standard on both trims are Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 tires with a front dimension of 275/35R18 and 345/30R19 in the back. However, for track use, the Coupe trim can be upgraded to American Club Race (ACR) which comes with massive wing highly ascended above the tail, fender-mounted dive planes, lighter wheels shod with stickier tires, deleted fog lamps and lighter brake rotors.

Interior

Further maintaining its status as a paragon of techno brilliance are full power accessories, keyless entry, seven-speaker sound system which includes a CD player, tilt steering wheel and power adjustable pedals. Integrated in the race-inspired leather seats is a six-point harness pre-fabrication. Satellite radio and navigation system can also be added in any trim. For better performance on the race track, the Hard Core package is recommended. With this feature, non-track essentials such as radio, speakers, tire inflator, trunk upholstery, etc. are eliminated to shed off 42 pounds. The measuring devices like the gauges on the instrument panel are positioned centrally for easy reading. Climate controls are also included. Two-tone color schemes and dash panel inserts can be incorporated for a livelier interior.

Braking & Safety

Outstanding on the 2010 Dodge Viper is the stopping power which is guaranteed reliable in braking at 160 mph in less than 100 feet. It also comes with anti-lock brake system with 14-inch rotors, adjustable pedals, knee bolsters and front airbags. Intended for track use, the Viper does not include practical and standard features as in regular vehicles such as side airbags, traction control and stability control. It has not been assessed by the federal government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. That is why great racing skills are required of any driver. For reliability, the 2011 Dodge Viper only offers a three year/36,000-mile basic warranty.

The Competition

Many are fans of the 2010 Viper for its power, speed and handling. But it seems that the 2010 Nissan GT-R (MSRP $89,950; 16 city / 23 hwy) is more astonishing as this sports car can sort of “teleport” from 0 to 60 mph in just three seconds! Also, this Viper counterpart offers a longer list of convenience features. For more roomy cargo storage, the Mercedes-Benz SL (EMV $216,662; 11 city / 18 hwy) is suggested to luxury sports car shoppers. That, and the Porsche 911 Carrera (MSRP $77,800; 18 city / 25 hwy) features a lengthy warranty of four years or 50,000 miles coverage.

Pros & Cons

The 2010 Dodge Viper is not ideal for the less experienced drivers because it lacks standard safety features. Moreover, the other sports cars in its class offer longer coverage. There are also complaints about the long-slung cabin and non-adjustable seats which do not conveniently accommodate the taller or bigger occupants.

Getting in or out can be embarrassing but premium seating experience is assured for its bolsters can hold your body tightly and comfortably in the Viper’s low-lying racing seats. Priced at around $90,000, the Dodge Viper is a wise buy for its powerful 600-horsepower V10 engine, quick steering wheel and solid brake pedal.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2010 Dodge Viper is truly, truly outrageous, from its ground-shaking performance to the paucity of space and comfort it doles out to its owner.”Car Connection

“Steering is nicely weighted. Viper’s extraordinary width, low center of gravity, and steamroller tires provide uncanny grip and race-car response in quick changes of direction. The suspension is pliant enough to keep Viper on course through bumpy corners taken at reasonable speed. Stopping control is resolute, with fine brake modulation.”Consumer Guide

“The Viper’s V10 engine was loud and not quite invigorating, and the clutch is heavy. Handling was capable but lacked finesse. Cornering limits are very high, with lots of grip, but the harsh ride, noise, poor driving position, and lack of creature comforts take their toll on the driver. The Viper is no longer in production.”MSN-ConsumerReports

“Physics-defying acceleration, outstanding brakes, race-inspired handling, aggressive styling, exclusivity on par with exotics.”Edmunds

“The Viper is Dodge’s flagship All-American, hand-built exotic sports car. With a traditional front-engine rear-wheel-drive design, the Viper has four-wheel independent suspension with large wheels and tires and massive brakes. ”MSN

The 2011 Nissan Maxima has been dubbed by many as the 4-Door Sports Car. It is definitely a luxury car that comes with sporting edge. However, there are those who complained that there were a lot of things sacrificed to give way to a better performance. However, you will still like the fact that this model made sure that user and passenger comfort are highly-regarded.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $31,750.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 20 gallons (75.7 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 26 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.6 in. (484 cm)	Width: 73.2 in. (185.9 cm)
Height: 57.8 in. (146.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 109.3 in. (277.6 cm)
Curb Weight: 3540 lbs (1605 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve DOHC V6	Displacement: 3.5 liter
Horsepower: 290 HP	Max RPM: 6400 RPM
Torque: 261 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: Xtronic CVT® (Continuously Variable Transmission)
0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:3.5 SV	MSRP: $34,450; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:3.5 SV Sport	MSRP: $36,550; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy
Option:3.5 SV Premium	MSRP: $37,750; MPG: 19 city / 26 hwy

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that this model comes with a strong V6 engine which can give you as much as 290 horsepower and torque of 261 pound-ft. It has a capacity for 3.5 liters as well. It sports a continuously variable automatic transmission that comes with a suspension, steering style and brakes that are custom-made for sporty driving. Some even reported using this model to as much as 60 mph below 6 seconds.

In terms of fuel economy, EPA estimates reported results for the 2011 Maxima at 19 mpg city/26 mpg for highway plus 22mpg combined.

Interior & Exterior

The exterior styling of this model has been getting a lot of good reviews. The wide stance gives an aggressive look. The fenders are bulging and muscular. This model will surely give you stares and second looks on and off the road which is just what you should expect from luxury and sports cars.

This vehicle also boasts of a rolled-edge tailpipe finisher, dark chrome grille as well as smoked headlights. The wheel wells are also flared. And the tires are on eye-catching alloys.

When it comes to the style and design of the interior, this baby has really much to boast about. This model is equipped with an upscale interior complete with high quality materials and high tech features.

The interior is made up of premium leather, a “Eucalyptus Wood-Tone” trim and a matte-metallic bright work.

The front seats of the Maxima are comfortable. However, there are still those who had some problems with the rear seats. For instance, there are those who are okay with them but others think that the sloping roofline design of the vehicle interferes with passenger comfort.

As for the interior features, this model comes with standard high tech features like Bluetooth, push-button ignition, remote windows control and trunk release control, dual-zone automatic climate control, and navigation and audio controls mounted on the steering wheel.

Safety & Reliability

The manufacturers of this model also made it a point to guarantee user and passenger safety. As a matter of fact, this model got a top score in the crash tests for front and side impacts. It also got a five star overall rating.

Among the safety features which are considered a standard for this model are the airbags for the side curtain as well as the front-side. This model also boasts of stability and traction control. Similarly, it is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, active restraints for the head, and anti-lock brakes. The latter is also mated with electronic brake force distribution.

But when it comes to reliability, the Maxima received a modest score of 6.0 in a total of 10 in the Predicted Reliability rating by the J. D. Power. This also comes with a basic warranty covering 36,000 miles or 3 years as well as a power-train warranty for 5 years or 60,000 miles.

Pros & Cons

There are actually a lot to like about this model. For one, it has precise steering that is very much necessary for a sports car. It also comes with a string V6 engine which gives it an excellent performance on the road. This is supplemented with great interior styling with highly advanced technological features.

On the other hand, there are still those who were not satisfied with this model. For instance, some say that it lacks the brand cachet that is implied by its cost. Still, others say that the optional equipment are put into expensive packages.

The Competition

If you want other options, perhaps you can look into its competitors like the Honda Accord (MSRP $21,380; 23 city / 33 hwy), Toyota Camry (MSRP $20,195; 22 city / 33 hwy), and the Audi 4 (MSRP $32,500; 22 city / 30 hwy).The Infiniti G-37 (MSRP $35,800; 19 city / 27 hwy) as well as the BMW 3-Series (MSRP $34,600; 18 city / 28 hwy) are also considered competitors to the 2011 Nissan Maxima.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Maxima is no longer primarily a sport sedan; think of it as comfortable and refined first, with its sportiness a bonus, and you’ll be happy.”Car Connection

“Generally comfortable, though Maxima has trouble coping with highway bumps and expansion joints. There is no discernible difference in the SV Sport with its 19-inch wheels.”Consumer Guide

“Precise steering; strong V6; high-quality interior with high-tech features; excellent iPod integration.”Edmunds