Both parking and fuel prices are at a premium, and is the main reason why most car manufacturers now have compact cars. They are for the most part sized just right, capable of squeezing into small spaces and have just enough room to haul down the family and some luggage. One of the premier car companies in the world, BMW, of course would want a share of the pie: to create a small car with the nuances that you expect from a BMW. What’s given birth is the BMW 1 series.

The BMW 1 series was first released in 2004 as a 5 door hatchback. Over the years, there have been various trims that were made available: a 3 door hatchback, a 2 door coupe, and a convertible. The release of this car is considered a success, as it helped BMW gained the lead over Lexus in the luxury car class. It is one of the more premium priced compacts around.

Performance

The BMW 1 Series is probably the best performing car in its class. It has 2 engine options: the 3.0 inline 6 engine (equipped in the 128i) that is capable of producing 230 horsepower, and the 3.0 liter inline 6 engine equipped with a turbocharger (equipped in the 135i) capable of producing 300 horsepower, a huge number for its class. Also, the handling is spectacular, befitting the BMW badge. The base suspension is properly tuned, and the steering and brakes are very solid. An optional upgraded wheels and suspension can improve its handling even more.

So what exactly are the strong points of the 2012 BMW 1 Series? The first thing that would be noted is that it is very fun to drive. With a powerful engine, great brakes, and a proper suspension setup, you can drive this car really fast. Probably the most track ready among the compact cars, it can blast through winding roads and make your everyday commute a bit more interesting. In addition, the interior bits are something that you expect from a car its price: simple yet sophisticated.

Exterior & Interior

For the 2012 model of the BMW 1 series (it is the final year of this generation of the 1 Series, with the second generation to be released later this year), the looks of the car was generally unchanged except for the redesigning of the front and rear lights. Also, the front end is modified to fir BMW’s Air Curtain, a system that helps generate better aerodynamics. However, the styling remains generally the same, which means it is possible that people will remain split about what to say about its looks.

The interior is fitted with gadgetry and luxury that you expect from a BMW and something with that kind of a price tag. The interior components are made simple yet fitted with high quality materials. Amenities such as a USB port, a HD radio, and an onboard computer that tracks car status are also there. Equipping it with a navigation system would include BMW’s controversial iDrive system, but it is more refined than in previous years.

Pros & Cons

However, the BMW 1 Series has its share of faults. On the top of the complaints list is the fuel consumption. With a mpg average of 18 for city driving and 25 for highway driving, those are really bad numbers for a compact car. Also, rear space is terribly small. Adults could barely fit into the rear seats, and is seemingly best reserved for children. And to top it all off, the boot space is quite small.

All in all, the 2012 BMW 1 Series is a mixed bag. Its price might scare off most compact car buyers, and it is not the most practical car to own. However, it is a true driver’s car. It packs strong performance potential that only few of its competition can. This car is a perfect last hurrah for the first generation 1 Series.

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“BMW says manual-transmission 135i coupes do 5.1 seconds 0-60, which is both quick and believable.”Consumer Guide

“Powerful, fuel-efficient engines; nimble handling; solid construction; refined performance; convertible available.”Edmunds

“At track day events hosted for automotive media, the 1 Series Coupe may not represent the latest or greatest in automotive sheetmetal, but you wouldn’t know it from the people waiting in line to drive it.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe-128i	Base Price: $30,950.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 14 gallons (53 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 172.2 in. (437 cm)	Width: 68.8 in. (174.7 cm)
Height: 56 in. (142 cm)	Curb Weight: 3208 lbs (1455 kg)
Wheel Base: 104.7 in. (265.9 cm)	Interior Volume: 96 cu ft
Luggage Capacity: 10 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve DOHC inline-6	Displacement: 3.0 liter
Horsepower: 230 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds	Top Speed: 150 mph

Available Trims & Engine

Option:135i Coupe	MSRP: $39,050; MPG: 20 city / 28 hwy
Option:128i Convertible	MSRP: $36,600; MPG: 18 city / 28 hwy
Option:135i Convertible	MSRP: $43,800; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy

Nissan has been manufacturing the Nissan Cube for well over a decade, with its fist production starting in 1998. Since then, it has opened markets in Europe and North America. This cartoonish, boxy-looking car is a mini MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) that is appropriately classed as a subcompact car.

The line has 3 generations so far, with the latest being released in 2008. The 2011 Nissan Cube markets itself to younger buyers; attracting drivers with its hip look, fuel economy, and ability to fit into small parking spaces. While buyers will be sharply divided by its exterior appearance, no one can dispute that this uniqueness of the Cube is also one of its most endearing qualities for those that do fall in love with it. The Cube is offered in four trims: 1.8, 1.8 S, 1.8 SL, and 1.8 Krōm Edition.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Compact SUV	Base Price: $14,740.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.2 gallons (50 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 27 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 156.7 in. (398 cm)	Width: 66.7 in. (169 cm)
Height: 65 in. (165 cm)	Wheel Base: 99.6 in. (252 cm)
Curb Weight: 2789 lbs (1265 kg)	Ground Clearance: 6.3 in. (16 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 11.4 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-valve DOHC 4 cylinder	Displacement: 1.8 liter
Horsepower: 122 HP	Max RPM: 5200 RPM
Torque: 127 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph (2010): 9.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:1.8 S	MSRP: $16,100; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy
Option:1.8 S Krom Edition	MSRP: $21,640; MPG: 25 city / 30 hwy
Option:1.8 SL	MSRP: $18,200; MPG: 27 city / 31 hwy

Engine & Performance

The Nissan Cube has a 1.8 L four-cylinder 122 horsepower engine and carries with it 127-pound-feet of torque. Buyers have a choice of either a six-speed manual transmission or a continuously variable transmission for all models except for 1.8, which only has a six-speed manual transmission.

While the Nissan Cube isn’t designed for speed, it is perfect for city driving. It isn’t as responsive as most Nissan cars, but it acquits itself with light steering, maneuverability in traffic, and increased convenience in parking. It averages 27/31 mpg in traffic/highway conditions with automatic transmission, and 25/30 mpg for manual transmission. Fantastic economy in fuel, but there are other subcompact cars of the competition that does better.

Interior & Exterior

As previously stated, the Nissan Cube’s exterior design will either be its strong suit or its weakest point depending on who is looking at the car. For those who value eccentricity and unique looks, the Nissan Cube will be a heaven-sent in a field of roads that offer nothing but conformity and boredom. It is pudgy, with a glassy upper body, and a shape that as its name suggests, is almost a perfect cube. There’s a reason the Cube is called a “box carton on wheels.”

The Nissan Cube measures 3.98 m long, 1.69 m wide and 1.65 m tall. It has a wheelbase of 2.53 m. Inside, the Cube is equipped with power windows, mirrors and locks; air-conditioning, and a navigation system optional on SL models but standard on Krōm. Depending on the models, it may also offer other features such as an audio system with subwoofer and speakers, XM satellite radio with NavTraffic capability, and a rear view monitor.

The interior of the car is well designed, has stylish carpeting, and a 20-color cabin-accent lighting kit. It also has Bluetooth capability for those who want it. Seating is adequate and there’s enough leg room and head room for everybody. It isn’t as comfortable though during long rides as the seats don’t give much support to its riders.

Safety & Reliability

None of the Nissan Cube’s earlier version up to the latest has been tested by the federal government. However, the insurance industry did give it a good score for front and side impacts as well as roof strength crash tests. Just like all of Nissan’s cars, the Cube is equipped with complete front and side air bags, a dynamic control and traction control system, and a tire pressure monitor.

Comparisons

The Nissan Cube has two main rivals: the Kia Soul (MSRP $13,300; 26 city / 31 hwy) and the Scion xB (MSRP $16,300; 22 city / 28 hwy). For a more powerful engine, you might want to take a look at the xB, although this comes with a heavier price. Both Soul and xB fail to beat the Cube in terms of fuel economy. Another car you may want to take a look at is the Honda Fit (MSRP $15,100; 27 city / 33 hwy). Honda Fit has more cargo space and has better mileage though it’s more expensive than the Cube.

Pros

• Distinctive style
• Spacious
• Convenient parking
• Room for customization

Cons

• Susceptible to cross winds
• Small cargo capacity
• Seats aren’t supportive enough

Overall Rating
70 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Nissan Cube looks like nothing else, while being surprisingly practical.”Car Connection

“For a basic economy car, Cube is fairly nimble and pleasant to drive. The precise steering has light effort at low speeds, but it builds nicely as the pace quickens.”Consumer Guide

“This small car holds five passengers in a surprisingly roomy interior.”MSN-ConsumerReports

“Reasonable performance; ample passenger space; easy to park; generous standard features list; unique customization opportunities.”Edmunds

The 2013 Buick Encore is expected to go on sale early in 2013. This luxurious car joins Verano, and is the Buick’s third sedan in 3 years.

The Encore has enough room for 5, comes with a storage space of 48 cu ft when the rear seat is folded.

Performance

The Buick encore is powered by an Ecotec 1.4 liters turbocharged 4-cylinder engine which generates about 140 horsepower and a peak torque of 148 lb-ft. Moreover, the engine is backed by a standard Hydra-Matic 6T40 6-speed automatic transmission. Other key features of this engine include: deceleration fuel cut-off, regulated voltage control, a high efficiency alternator and electronically controlled return less fuel system.

Interior Features

The interior of the new 2013 Encore combines ice blue ambient lighting with a bright trim and wood grain trim. The steering wheel which houses the audio control is wrapped in quality leather. The seats are also trimmed with leather or leatherette motif. Additionally, the Encore offers an outstanding instrument panel with a large full color, 7 inch LCD display for its IntelliLink voice-activated radio system.

Some of the distinguished comfort and luxury features include: Bose premium sound system, dual zone automatic climate control, remote vehicle start, and a six way, power adjustable driver’s seat with a driver memory and power lumbar adjustment. It is believed that nine exterior colors and three interior colors combinations will be offered in the Buick Encore.

Safety

On safety issues, Buick Encore is designed with technologies such as radar based features that helps in avoiding crashes and protecting the occupants in case such scenarios occur. Some of the safety features in this car include: rear vision camera, front and rear park assist, four wheel disc brakes with electronic and ABS brakes force distribution, standard StabiliTrak electronic stability control, and forward collision alert and lane departure warning.

Other additional noticeable features of 2013 Buick Encore include 10 standard air bags, rain sense wipers, Quiet-tuned 18 inch continental tires, aero-optimized outside mirrors and acoustic-laminated windshield.

This year, Acura’s RL sedan offers a new and advanced six speed automatic transmission partnered with a manual shift paddles as a replacement to its previous five-speed unit. It is propelled by a 3.7 liter V6 engine under the hood with 300 horsepower and 271 pound feet of torque to give it enough power out of the box. The consumers can also upgrade the V6 engine to a V8. With the figures:17 mpg city/24 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined, the 2011 Acura RL promises to provide better mileage, fuel efficiency and improved acceleration. Like the other Acura units, the Acura RL is also equipped with Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system (SH-AWD) that helps control handling balance and wheel spin on poor traction surfaces.

Exterior

This luxury Acura sedan comes in three trim levels. On the outside, it displays its 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic xenon headlights, keyless ignition/entry and a sunroof, which is unusual in its counterparts. Sitting inside the well appointed interior of Acura RL will surely make anyone’s daily travel more pleasant as it offers comfort and enough room for four average-sized adults. It also provides plush leather seats with firm cushions and moderate bolstering and tasteful design that are evident all throughout the interior.

Interior

Complementing the Acura RL’s sophisticated demeanor are hi-tech entertainment features such as the upgraded Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity, 10-speaker Bose surround-sound audio system that includes a six-CD changer, a USB / iPod audio interface, voice commands for audio, an auxiliary audio jack and a satellite radio.

Adding to its elegant appeal are the GPS-linked solar-sensing and dual zone automatic climate control, a navigation system with real-time traffic and real time weather, a back up camera, rear parking sensors, power folding side mirrors, a power rear sunshade and manual rear side sunshades, auto-dimming mirror, a power tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, and heated & ventilated front seats with good adjustability. The inside is also classier with a wood trim-which can be simulated or authentic and a dashboard filled with easy to operate buttons used for activating basic commands such as the navigation system.

Safety

For maximum protection, safety features are integrated in 2011 Acura RL. These include antilock brakes with brake assist, airbags which are classified into two-the front-seat side airbags and the full-length side curtain airbags, functional front head restraints and stability-control system. Additional feature is Collision Mitigation Braking System or CMBS which can help prevent or minimize frontal accident by alarming the driver with warnings like using emergency braking for the possible unavoidable collision.

The Acura RL was able to pass the government’s 2011 crash-testing and even gained a high rating for frontal-impact and side-impact safety. Moreover, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Acura RL with the highest rating in its frontal-offset and side-collision tests.

Reliability

Known for its stellar reliability, the 2011 RL was given an exemplary rating. This also comes with a Maintenance Minder system which is designed to monitor the vehicle performance and then alert the owner for the necessary vehicle service. Included in the package are four-year/50,000 – mile limited warranty and six-year/70,000-mile power train warranty.

The Competition

However, compared to 2011 RL, the Hyundai Genesis (MSRP $33,000; 18 city / 27 hwy) is cheaper but boasts more luxurious features. Other vehicle enthusiasts who prefer a sportier or more prestigious look choose the Audi A6 (MSRP $41,700; 25 city / 33 hwy), BMW 5 Series (MSRP $45,050; 22 city / 32 hwy), Infiniti M37 (MSRP $47,050; 18 city / 26 hwy) and Mercedes E-Class (MSRP $50,490; 18 city / 25 hwy).

Pros & Cons

The disadvantages of 2011 Acura RL are its unflattering front grille design, limited cargo capacity and its second-worst rating in roof strength tests. On the other hand, the pros include better handling abilities, improved Traction system, powerful engine capacity, and the remarkable interior materials that offer a fun and comfortable journey experience.

Overall Rating
74 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Acura RL lives up to its flagship status in the Acura lineup with top-notch tech features and long-haul comfort, but charm comes up missing.”Car Connection

“RL is nimble and exhibits little cornering lean.”Consumer Guide

“All-wheel drive; wealth of standard features; high-class interior; excellent build quality; superb stereo; smart technology interface.”Edmunds

“The AWD RL is powered by a powerful V6. The powertrain is polished, but ride and handling don’t stand out and the interior is snug.”MSN-Consumer Reports

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $47,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 19.3 gallons (73 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 195.7 in. (497 cm)	Width: 72.7 in. (184.7 cm)
Height: 57.2 in. (145 cm)	Wheel Base: 110.2 in. (280 cm)
Curb Weight: 4083 lbs (1852 kg)	Ground Clearance: 5.7 in. (14.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 24-valve SOHC, VTEC®	Displacement: 3.7 LITERS
Horsepower: 300 HP	Max RPM: 6300 RPM
Torque: 271 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 6.0 seconds	1/4 Mile: 14.5 seconds

Australia could hardly be seen in the map of car manufacturing. But this year, the land down under has released the country’s first super car, the 2011 Joss JP1. Developed by the Joss Development, this car is set to be sold in the market by early 2012. Last July 1-10 the car has been showcased internationally and is the final prototype of this car set to be sold by year 2012.

When it comes to aesthetics, the car doesn’t stand out that much. With the body styling very much like any other supercar, there’s not much to see exteriorly on this car. But on the brighter side, the design of this car is already an acquired taste so no matter how much it looks the same as other supercars, people will still love it. But the lack of design ingenuity is compensated by its performance. The car is designed to provide powerful engines rather than have it look sexy and spicy.

The production version of this supercar is said to be powered by a V8 engine which can spike the horsepower to up to 500, mated to a six-speed manual transmission. This powerful engine can take you from 0-62 mph in less than three seconds with a top speed of 211 miles per hour. With that being said, this supercar will take the year 2012, fast.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Supercar

Est Price: $530,000.00

Performance

Engine: Mid Mount V8	Displacement: 6.8 LITERS
Horsepower: 500 HP	Torque: 420 lb-ft
Transmission: 5-Speed Manual	0-60 mph: 3 seconds
1/4 Mile: 11 seconds	Maximum Speed: 211 mph (339 km/h)