The 2011 Nissan Rogue is basically a compact crossover with a capacity for five passengers. It is available in three trim levels as well. It has been hailed by many customers and experts as a strong contender in its class because of its high regard for user and passenger comfort and convenience.

For the 2011 model, the manufacturer made it a point to give the Nissan Rogue a fresh look with revisions in the front as well as rear design and style. There have also been some added luxury features. And the performance has also been improved for the better when it comes to fuel economy.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Crossover	Base Price: $21,460.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 22 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 183.3 in. (465.5 cm)	Width: 70.9 in. (180 cm)
Height: 65.3 in. (165.8 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.9 in. (268 cm)
Curb Weight: 3276 lbs (1486 kg)	Ground Clearance: 8.3 in. (21 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 28.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 15-valve DOHC inline-4	Displacement: 2.5-liter
Horsepower: 170 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 175 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: Xtronic CVT®
0-60 mph: NA	Max Towing Capacity: 1000 lbs (453.6 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SV FWD	MSRP: $23,900; MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy
Option:Krom Edition FWD	MSRP: $24,430; MPG: 22 city / 28 hwy
Option:S AWD	MSRP: $22,710; MPG: 22 city / 26 hwy
Option:SV AWD	MSRP: $25,150; MPG: 22 city / 26 hwy
Option:Krom Edition AWD	MSRP: $25,680; MPG: 22 city / 26 hwy

Performance

When it comes to performance, you actually have an option of whether to go for the front-wheel or all-wheel drive for this baby. Under the hood, you will find that the 2011 model is powered by a four-cylinder engine that has a capacity for 2.5 liters. It is also capable of producing as much as 170 horsepower that is coupled with 175 pound-feet of torque. Not to mention that the 2011 Rogue also comes with continuous variable transmission.

However, there are those who are not satisfied with the power of this model’s engine. There are also complaints about the CVT used in this model. But as for the fuel economy, this is among the top-raters in its class.

Exterior & Interior

When it comes to the exterior, the 2011 model has definitely gambled on a restyled and redesigned exterior. The grille as well as the bumpers is new. The spoilers for the front and rear areas are also new. The manufacturer also made it a point to include new high-end features for this model. For instance, the 2011 Rogue comes with alloy wheels of 18 inches as well as automatic on and off headlights.

As for the interior, the Rogue is considered by many customers, experts and reviewers as having one of the best interiors when it comes to compact crossovers in its price range.

The seats of the 2011 model are very much comfortable for both the front and rear seats. The materials used for the interior are also considered to be top-notch and of high quality. The controls are also intuitive according to some reviewers. And when it comes to the cargo of this model, a lot of reviewers are actually impressed.

However, there have been negative reviews when it comes to the storage compartments which some find to be a bit lacking. The rear seats are also incapable of reclining unlike those of the competitors of this model.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to safety, this model is also equipped with a lot of safety features. For instance, among the standard safety features for the 2011 Rogue are the anti-lock disc brakes which also come with Electronic Brake force Distribution as well as Brake Assist. There are also driver and front-passenger seat-mounted side-impact airbags for supplement as well as dual-stage supplemental front air bags. And lastly, this model also comes with Traction Control and Vehicle Dynamic Control.

It received a reliability rating of 6.0 out of 10 in the Predicted Reliability by J. D. Power. It also comes with a basic warranty of three years or 36,000 miles as well as a power-train warranty of five years or 60,000 miles.

Pros & Cons

All in all, the reviewers, customers and experts loved the performance of this model. The ride has smooth and the handling was goof. The cabin was excellent and the front seats were comfortable.

However, there are some complaints when it comes to the cargo room of this model. There are also those who are looking for a V6 engine option. And lastly, some find that the 2011 Nissan Rogue has poor rear visibility.

Overall Rating
66 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Rogue has a good feature set and great packaging for small-family use, but its performance and details aren’t always delightful.”Car Connection

“Rogue is adequate from a stop and around town, but it’s slow to build power needed for highway passing or hill climbs. ”Consumer Guide

“Smooth ride; capable handling; high-quality cabin; comfortable front seats.”Edmunds

“If you need the towing and hauling power afforded by a V6 engine, you won’t find one on the Rogues lengthy options list.”KBB

Considered as one of the Affordable Smart Cars, the 2011 Nissan Sentra is more than just another sedan in the market today. It has antilock brakes, stability control and traction control which are highly regarded when it comes to the safety features of any car. For someone who is not looking for a too edgy or flashy automobile, the Nissan Sentra 2011 would be the most ideal car since it has the right features for someone on the go but on a budget.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $16,060.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (54.8 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 24 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 179.8 in. (456 cm)	Width: 70.5 in. (179 cm)
Height: 59.5 in. (151 cm)	Wheel Base: 105.7 in. (268 cm)
Curb Weight: 2875 lbs (730 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.6 in. (14.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve DOHC inline-4	Displacement: 2.0-liter
Horsepower: 140 HP	Max RPM: 5100 RPM
Torque: 147 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:CVT Automatic	MSRP: $17,240; MPG: 27 city / 34 hwy
Option:S CVT Automatic	MSRP: $17,990; MPG: 27 city / 34 hwy
Option:SL CVT Automatic	MSRP: $19,390; MPG: 27 city / 34 hwy
Option:SE-R CVT Manual V	MSRP: $20,620; MPG: 21 city / 28 hwy

Performance

The Nissan Sentra is fuel efficient with 27 city /34 highway mpg; the gas mileage it gets is quite impressive. With regards to the interior, it is quite spacious and would ideally sit about four adults comfortably; two in the front and two more in the back. The company also gives this car a deal since it is packed with navigational system and some models with Bluetooth. Although, this car is packed with features that are a definite steal for its asking price, it does have some challenge with other cars of the similar class type which would offer a little more with regards to the edgier features, better exterior and interior detailing and others which are more economical with regards to fuel efficiency. The Sentra is more ideal for families and singles that are always on the go and are in need of a car with just the ‘basics’.

Dependable & Reliable

While the interiors are the complete opposite, the Sentra boasts quite an impressive interior that is comfy and gives the passengers a lot of room while giving an overall feel of class. Also in terms of the safety measures, the Nissan Sentra would be one of the best choices since most crash tests gave it thumbs up. For the exteriors, it is not as impressive either since there are other cars in the similar category that have more chic and classy exterior so this would be somewhat in the middle ranks.

And lastly, the Sentra’s reliability lies somewhere in the middle of most other automobiles in this category since Nissan does offer a limited three year warranty for their cars and according to studies like the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS) conducted by J.D. Power’s automotive studies which in comparison to other car companies that would offer a longer time period for their cars warranties. It has many of its own strong points which make it an overall classy automobile.

The competition

If you are looking to check whether there are any other cars in this line that could be taken into consideration, there are quite a few that can be taken into account. These are Honda’s Civic and Fit models. These two are quite popular and among the media’s favourites with their interesting fun dynamics, chic design and excellent fuel efficiency.

The Honda Civic (MSRP $15,805; 26 city / 34 hwy) and Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy) mileage is comparable to the Sentra. Although the Fit would be the more conservative choice among these two models. Another two good contenders would be the Mazda3 (MSRP $15,800; 25 city / 33 hwy) and the Chevrolet Cruze (MSRP $16,525; 26 city / 36 hwy). These cars are better in terms of the spacious cargo area the former having a more masculine and sporty design while the latter has better fuel economy.

Pros & Cons

On to the Nissan Sentra’s pros and cons; it is not the most fun car to drive around in terms of the driving dynamics. However, it does get the job done by getting you where you would like to.

Overall Rating
64 out of 100

What others say:

“In its base 2.0 form, the 2011 Nissan Sentra makes a good commuter car, with a strong list of standard features like power windows and locks, air conditioning, tilt steering, split-folding backseats, and a 160-watt CD sound system.”Car Connection

“The 2.0 models have decent around-town power; passing punch is sufficient, too.”Consumer Guide

“Spacious front seating; respectable fuel economy and power; intuitive control layout.”Edmunds

“Those who prefer crisp handling response or brisk acceleration are likely to be disappointed, although moving up to the SE-R or SE-R Spec V models would dramatically change both elements of the overall performance equation. And the Sentra’ styling, both inside and out, is beginning to show the car’s age.”KBB

The 2011 Lexus RX 450h features only 1 trim in either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. The RX Hybrid was redesigned for the 2010 models so that it can be observed that there are only slight changes.

The Lexus RX Hybrid combines a luxurious interior with a power train that has finesse. This model also has superb fuel economy. Many have commented though that it is priced much higher side by side the gas-only RX yet reviewers say that despite the price, it is a one-of-a kind SUV.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hybrid SUV	Base Price: $44,735.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.2 gallons (65 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 32 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 187.8 in. (477 cm)	Width: 74.2 in. (188.5 cm)
Height: 67.7 in. (172 cm)	Wheel Base: 107.9 in. (274 cm)
Curb Weight: 4520 lbs (2050 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.9 in. (17.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 40 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve VVT-I Atkinson Cycle V6	Displacement: 3.5-liters
Horsepower: 295 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Engine Type: Hybrid	Transmission: Continuously Variable-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.4 seconds	1/4 Mile: 16 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:RX450h AWD

MSRP: $46,325; MPG: 30 city / 28 hwy

Highlights

With this model, Lexus fused together hybrid and luxury. This is a highly satisfying combination for car lovers. If one goes for the RX hybrid one could get a first class and first rate technology interior that adds to it such smooth performance. The 450h is powered by a 24-valve 3.5 liter V6 atkinson cycle engine with an output of 295 hp. There is also the chance to experience excellent fuel economy for this model. You could have all of these features also when choosing the gas-only model of the Lexus 350.

The Lexus RX Hybrid however still has a better fuel economy compared to the RX 350. With the RX 350 it would take some time for gas savings to add up to extra cash that one has to produce in the dealership. Despite this higher price tag, there is still satisfaction knowing that you are able to drive a more eco-friendly vehicle. Add to this that all RX 450h owners would enjoy the standard benefits of an RX Lexus which include high class interior design plus a smooth and quiet cabin ride.

Interior

The Lexus RX 450h carries high-tech features in its cabin. Some of these are standard while others are optional. This is intended to please the technology enthusiast drivers. There is for instance a useful mouse-like electronic interface. Add to this the best of the best Mark Levinson sound system as well as LED headlamps.

The Lexus RX Hybrid use to be the only one in its class that is a hybrid. Today however, that is changing. The different luxury brands are also starting to produce hybrid SUVs. It is too soon to estimate if the reviewers would want the new one the way they like the Lexus hybrid. So, if you do not completely believe in the RX, it may be best to wait. However, current reviews already say that if you choose an RX 450h it will not be a disappointment. So, take your pick.

The Competition

There are several SUVs in the market. The buyer may choose any other type than the Lexus RX 450H; however, they won’t be able to feel the type of fuel efficiency that only this model can offer. If the car buyer however would want a Lexus but not a hybrid, then choose the Lexus 350. This will give the buyer a similar interior fitting but choosing this gas-only power train would yield substantial savings. And although the RX 350 isn’t a hybrid, you can still expect the fuel economy to be among the best in its class.

For those not wanting for the smooth performance of a Lexus, there is always the BMW X5 as an alternative. The model only gives up 1mpg in city driving compared to the RX350. The BMW X5 (MSRP $47,200; 16 city / 23 hwy) though is slightly priced higher than an RX 450h. It also has interiors that are Prussian-styled. Its performance could however rival those other sports sedans in its class.

Pros

• Excellent Fuel Economy
• Luxurious Cabin
• User-friendly High Technology Interface

Cons

• Pricing
• Exterior styling is not that distinctive

Overall Rating
81 out of 100

What others say:

“Beneath the hood, the 2011 RX 450h is completely different. Instead of a conventional V-6 engine, there’s a 3.5-liter V-6 coupled to Toyota’s Hybrid Synergy Drive, which includes two separate motors (a third on all-wheel-drive versions), a continuously variable transmission instead of a six-speed automatic, and a hefty battery pack under the second-row seat.”Car Connection

“Though expensive, the 2011 Lexus RX 450h delivers on its promise of impressive fuel economy, utility, power and luxury.”Edmunds

“The RX is one of the well-rounded upscale SUVs. It balances a refined powertrain and comfortable ride with well-planned details and a very quiet interior. The 3.5-liter V6 is strong. Cargo capacity is modest.”MSN-Consumer Reports

The 2011 Dodge Avenger is a midsize sedan from the automobile giant Chrysler. And for this year, it received a lot of updates, redesigning and improvements in terms of its engine and styling. More features were also added to make the Avenger more competitive in the market this year. This model is offered in 5 trim levels for you to choose from.

Performance

Under the hood, you will find that as a standard, this model has an engine with a capacity for 4 liters. It can also give you as much as 166 lb.-ft. of torque as well as 173 horsepower. But alongside the major improvements for this year’s model, the Dodge Avenger now offers you with a V6 engine with a capacity for 3.6 liters. This new option can give you as much as 260 lb.-feet of torque and 283 horsepower.

As for the transmission, you have two options for certain trim levels this model of the 2011 Avenger. First is an automatic transmission with four speeds. This is basically for the Express trim. On the other hand, the units in the Heat, Mainstreet and LUX trim levels all get an automatic transmission of 6 speeds.

Interior & Exterior

In terms of the styling and design of this year’s model, you will find that there have been efforts to make some improvement in the exterior of the Dodge Avenger. It now comes with a new crosshair grille in the front area. In the same manner, users and reviewers alike also love the new fog lamps and grille inserts of this model. The tail lamps have also been made larger. All these improvements in the exterior somewhat gave this model a sportier look.

However, there are mixed reactions to the styling updates; some reviewers and experts pleased about them; but there are also those who think that the improvements are still too minor to result to any noticeable change in appearance.

On the other hand, the updates and improvements in the interior of the Avenger is another story. It seems that the overhaul done with the interior of this vehicle has paid off really well. The materials and design were updated.

The steering wheel, for one is new. The dashboard also received improvements that make it appear to be more contoured this time. The vents got some reshaping. The manufacturer also made it a point to pay attention to the user’s comfortableness as it changed its basic materials to ones which are considered soft-touch.

However, when it comes to the use of space, nothing much has changed with the interior of this model. Many reviewers and users say that the trunk, for one, is a little bit small considering that this model is a midsize sedan.

In terms of seating, there are also mixed feedbacks for the Dodge Avenger. There are those who find that the Dodge Avenger’s seats are supportive and comfortable as well. However, there are those who think completely otherwise.

Safety & Reliability

When it comes to safety, you can be assured that this model aces the tests. For instance, this is considered as a Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. So basically, it means that this model got excellent scores in terms of the impact and roof tests.
There are also safety features that are considered to be standard across all units from this model. Some of which are the electronic stability control, airbags which can be found in the front and sides of the vehicle, a monitoring system for the tire pressure, and anti-lock brakes.

And lastly, when it comes to reliability, this model comes with a bumper-to-bumper warranty that covers up to 36,000 miles or 3 years. There is also a power train warranty that lasts for 100,000 miles or five years; as well as an exterior rust warranty for the same mile and time restrictions.

The Competition

If you want more options, you may look into the Chevrolet Cruze (MSRP $16,720; 26 city / 36 hwy) and Honda Accord (MSRP $21,380; 23 city / 33 hwy) are considered as competitors of the Avenger. All in all, the 2011 Dodge Avenger is best described by the cliché “new and improved”.

Overall Rating
68 out of 100

What others say:

“A new V-6 and interior refresh makes the 2011 Dodge Avenger more intriguing, but in execution this mid-sizer still leaves a lot to be desired.”Car Connection

“The car tracks well, has good steering, and there’s little body lean in fast corners. It’s certainly competent, but not what you would call sporty. Dodge is likely leaving that to the upcoming Avenger R/T.”Consumer Guide

“Improvements abound for the 2011 Dodge Avenger. It’s finally competitive in a segment chock full of good choices.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $19,245.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.9 gallons (63 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 30 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 192.6 in. (489 cm)	Width: 72.8 in. (184 cm)
Height: 58.4 in. (148 cm)	Wheel Base: 108.9 in. (276 cm)
Curb Weight: 3394 lbs (1539.5 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.0 in. (15.2 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve inline-4 Dual VVT DOHC	Displacement: 2.4-liter
Horsepower: 173 HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 166 lb-ft @ 4400 rpm	Transmission: 4-Speed Automatic VLP
0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds(3.6L Pentastar)	1/4 Mile: 14.6 seconds(3.6L Pentastar)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Avenger Mainstreet	MSRP: $21,340; MPG: 20 city / 31 hwy
Option:Avenger LUX	MSRP: $23,745; MPG: 20 city / 31 hwy
Option:Avenger Heat	MSRP: $23,840; MPG: 19 city / 29 hwy

The 2011 Nissan Titan can be considered as one of the best ranking Full Size Pickup Trucks in the market today. In its first introduction, about seven years back, the Nissan Titan boasted of very impressive features that had its competitors running for their money but unfortunately without any new developments in the new model, other companies have been able to catch up to this pickups once impressive features and has remained to be just like any other pickup truck. Although other pickup trucks in this category and price range have outshone the Titan, most still say that this pickup truck is capable of most of the functions intended for this kind of automobile.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Pick Up Truck	Base Price: $29,960.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 28 gallons (105 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 18 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 224.6 in. (570 cm)	Width: 79.5 in. (201.9 cm)
Height: 74.7 in. (189.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 139.8 in. (355 cm)
Curb Weight: 5038 lbs (2285 kg)	Ground Clearance: 10.4 in. (26 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 150 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 6 people

Performance

Engine: 32-valve DOHC V8	Displacement: 5.6-liter
Horsepower: 317 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 385 lb-ft @ 3400 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.1 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 7500 lbs (3402 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2WD King Cab SWB SV	MSRP: $29,410; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:2WD Crew Cab LWB SV	MSRP: $32,060; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:2WD King Cab SWB SL	MSRP: $37,510; MPG: 13 city / 18 hwy
Option:4WD King Cab SWB	MSRP: $30,260; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy
Option:4WD King Cab SWB Pro-4X	MSRP: $35,140; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy
Option:4WD King Cab SWB SL	MSRP: $40,210; MPG: 12 city / 17 hwy

Performance

In terms of the performance, the Nissan Titan does offer a good performance level although it does have less than acceptable towing capacity since most other contenders in the category would have a better engine power.

If you are decided and have your eyes set on the Nissan Titan consider your options. The Nissan Titan offers four trim levels namely the Base S, SV middle of the road, the SL premium and lastly the PRO 4X which is performance oriented, compared to the Cabs (King or Crew) would allow about five to six seating. Unlike typical cab models, their King Cab would comprise of a bed with six feet and seven inches and five feet and seven inches or seven feet and three inches beds for the Crew Cab.

Exterior & Interior

For the exteriors, it has a very masculine design and is quite stylish unfortunately this has been all the change that has been made with regards to exterior since the first model came out in 2004. Moving on to its interiors, it matches up to most other pickup trucks in the similar category and nothing much that stands out about it. It does have comfortable seating and well designed interiors and good spacious cargo area although in terms of the finishing, other brands might offer a more polished and sophisticated look.

Reliability & Safety

And like any other Nissan made vehicle, the reliability of this pickup truck still stands tall. The Titan has a 3-year warranty. While in terms of the pickup trucks over all safety, the Nissan Titan boasts an impressive safety performance that measures up well in government crash tests.

The Competition

There are a lot of other pickup trucks that are in the similar price range and category that can be placed in comparison to the Nissan Titan. One of which is Ford’s F-150 (MSRP $22,790; 17 city / 23 hwy) that offers the top class capabilities in terms of towing and hauling and also intelligently infused with Ford’s SYNC system together with a voice-controlled navigation system.

For people interested in making changes to their pickup trucks, the F-150 does offer that option unlike the Titan. Another contender would be the Chevy Silverado 1500 (MSRP $21,235; 15 city / 20 hwy) and the GMC Sierra 1500 (MSRP $21,235; 15 city / 20 hwy) that costs far less than the Nissan Titan.

The 2011 Titan does have its fair share of strong and weak points. On the practical side there are a lot of other pickup trucks within the similar price range that can be considered as good options.

Overall Rating
62 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Titan performs well and has a comfortable interior, but its appeal is more limited than the full-line full-size trucks from the Big Three and Toyota.”Car Connection

“A smooth, powerful V8 puts Titan among quickest large trucks off the line. Passing punch is ample. The transmission upshifts smoothly, but sometimes suffers from delayed downshifts.”Consumer Guide

“Newer competitors are more capable and comfortable; cab style and drivetrain selection are limited; burly exhaust note gets tiresome on long drives.”Edmunds