The New Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG is a good example of a modern luxury car. It is efficient and powerful with high performance expected from its V8 bi-turbo engine. This car has a power output of 525 Horsepower but operates at an exceptionally low fuel consumption rate of 9.8 liters per 100 kilometers.

This is more than 20% lower than its predecessor. It can be considered as the most fuel efficient vehicle in its class.

The new 7-speed transmission system and the electro magnetic speed sensitive AMG steering system may have contributed to the fuel efficiency since both of these technological gadgets offer better driving maneuverability and speed control. The direct petrol injection system and spray guide combustion provide better energy conversion in the engine and the high-tech engine electronics for start and stop functions are innovations that are unique to the New Mercedes-Benz E 63 AMG. The aluminum crankcase complete with ventilation holes reduce friction in the engine and the automatic camshaft intake and exhaust adjustments are also additional features of this car.

In the exterior of the car, the newly designed light-alloy wheels stand out conspicuously with the front tires slightly smaller than the rear ones, all painted in hog sheen titanium gray finish. The spoiler and electronically operated rear window sun blinds are unique features to this model.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan-Base Model	MSRP: $88,900.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21.1 gallons (80 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 13 city / 20 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 192.4 in. (488.7 cm)	Width: 81.5 in. (207 cm)
Height: 56.8 in. (144 cm)	Wheel Base: 113.1 in. (287 cm)
Curb Weight: 4084 lbs (1852.5 kg)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 15.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: AMG 6.3L V8	Displacement: 6208 cc
Horsepower: 518 HP	Max RPM: 6800 RPM
Torque: 465 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm	Transmission: AMG Speedshift MCT 7-speed
0-60 mph: 4.3 seconds	Maximum Speed: NA

In 2006, Honda Pilot got a make-over. This model was especially made to satisfy customer demands. Pilot’s concept is shared among the Honda Odyssey and Honda Accord. Honda Pilot’s uni-body assembly and independent suspension provides the similar handling experience of a car. This vehicle experiences a rough competition from other pickup trucks such as Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Toyota Highlander.

Honda Pilot is a midsized crossover SUV that is offered with four trim levels. The 2011 Honda Pilot have different trims; the Honda pilot EX, Honda pilot LX, the pilot EX-L and the Touring model. All trims are offered with either front wheel drive or 4-wheel drive.

Performance

The Honda Pilot is equipped with the standard 3.5L V6 engine that comes with a front wheel drive and optional four-wheel drive with automatic distribution power to the rear wheel of up to 70 percent. The power train is mated with five-speed auto gear transmission. This power supply is combined with a driver selectable lock characteristic as well that transfers maximum torque to the rear wheel at a speed under 19 MPH. This power train allows the Honda pilot to speed up from zero to 60 MPH in a matter of 9.7 seconds.

The 2010 version Honda Pilot’s available with practical exterior styling. Interior is offered with blocky and rugged. Like the other present Honda vehicles, the central stack of this sedan is full of several control buttons. Using these buttons is made simpler by individually made logical design. Pilot is available with additional seats on the third row as well to maximize load capacity.

Pilot, among other sedans, can seat adults and provide relative comfort to all its passengers. Cushions on the second and third row seats are quite low and they may not be that comfortable for passengers with long legs. This sedan has less compact seating than that of Ford Flex (MSRP $29,355; 17 city / 24 hwy) and Chevy Traverse (MSRP $32,010; 17 city / 24 hwy).

Test drivers mentioned that the 2011 Honda Pilot has an adequate performance and a lot of power. However, its braking capability may not be that strong and it may not be that reliable for situations when the car needs to go on a sudden stop. Therefore, it is best to always observe proper driving manners at all times to avoid accidents.

Trims & Features

Honda pilot LX has 17-inch wheels, keyless entry, automated head light, rear privacy glass, steering wheel, cruise control, telescopic and tilt steering wheel, trailer hitch, front and back air conditioners, split foldable third row seats and AUX-IN pin and CD and MP3 player, seven-speaker audio system.

The pilot EX has an additional of 17-inch wheels made out of alloy, roof rails, floodlights, painted body molding, audio system with six CD chargers, tri-zone automated climate control, eight-way power driver seat, satellite radio and heated outer mirrors.

Honda pilot EX-L trim features heated front seat, improved leather upholstery, back seat DVD components, I-Pod and Bluetooth connectivity and a10-speaker audio system.

Both EX’s add-ons comes with the Touring trim and later include power tailgate, driver memory operation, window sunshade at the back as well as tire pressure gauge.

Safety

The 2010 Pilot is equipped with the latest safety features that ensure safe travel to its passengers. This model comes with stability control, front seat airbag at the side, standard anti-lock disc brakes as well as full-length curtain airbags. The 2011 Pilot has not yet been crash tested. However, in a federal government crash test, this sedan performed perfectly and earned five stars for passenger safety during side and frontal impact. This sedan has earned an outstanding rating as well from IIHS, shortened for Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, for frontal as well as side collisions.

Competition

There are other alternatives to look before making you’re a final decision in getting your Honda Pilot. Among those to consider are the: Toyota Highlander (MSRP $29,245; 18 city / 24 hwy), Nissan Pathfinder (MSRP $28,570; 15 city / 22 hwy), the 2012 GMC Acadia (MSRP $35,080; 17 city / 24 hwy), and the Toyota 4Runner (MSRP $30,305; 17 city / 23 hwy).

Overall Rating
75 out of 100

What others say:

“A responsive, smooth powertrain and surprisingly confident handling make the 2011 Honda Pilot a better on-road performer than its appearance might suggest.”Car Connection

“Generally car-like driving feel, with fine low-speed maneuverability and city-friendly turning radius.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Honda Pilot has plenty of family-friendly appeal with excellent crash safety scores and a roomy third row. But outside of that, it comes up as merely average.”Edmunds

“If you’re looking for a true eight-passenger vehicle that offers more on- and off-road capabilities than a minivan, the 2011 Honda Pilot belongs on your list.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $28,320.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 23 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.9 in. (485 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199 cm)
Height: 71 in. (180 cm)	Curb Weight: 4319 lbs (1959 kg)
Wheel Base: 109.2 in. (277 cm)	Ground Clearance: 8 in. (20 cm)
Max Cargo Capacity: 87 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8 people

Performance

Engine: 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® V6	Displacement: 3471 cc
Horsepower: 250 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 253 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.5 seconds	Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (4536 kgs) 2WD

Option:Touring 4WDMSRP:$40,670; MPG:16 city / 22 hwy

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LX 4WD	MSRP: $29,920; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:EX 2WD	MSRP: $31,170; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option: EX 4WD	MSRP: $32,770; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:EX-L 2WD	MSRP: $34,270; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:EX-L 4WD	MSRP: $35,870; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy
Option:Touring 2WD	MSRP: $39,070; MPG: 17 city / 23 hwy
Option:Touring 4WD	MSRP: $40,670; MPG: 16 city / 22 hwy

Volvo, a Swedish automaker is equated with luxury and safety and the 2011 Volvo C30 is no exception. Ranked 8 out of 10 in terms of upscale small cars, the C30 highlights a redesigned front end, a sporty exterior coupled with a refined interior and superior product specifications.

Performance

The 2011 Volvo C30 Comes in six (6) two trims TL and R-design with a turbocharged Gas I5 2.5L/154. Mileage is 21 miles per gallon in the City / 29 miles per gallon in the Highway.

Specification wise the 2011 Volvo C30 produces 227 horsepower with its 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-five cylinder. This is more than enough power needed to propel the C30 for city and highway drives. However most experts agree that in contrast with its more than respectable engine and a sporty compact design is the dull and unresponsive nature of the C30.

Most reviewers agree that the steering and brakes are unresponsive, the chassis construction and suspension set up translates to a bumpy ride and the superb engine is hampered by its heavy curb weight. Transmission is dull in automatic and sluggish in automatic. In sum most experts agree that what the 2011 Volvo C30 provides an ample ride but it is sluggish, rigid and dull to drive.

Exterior

The front end is very sporty and is distinctive looking, it is flared, bulging and bumpy, the side sports beautiful and gracious lines and the rear, sports a bodacious jaw dropping al glass diagonal rear hatch.

Interior

The dashboard is chic and intuitive; upholstery is the ever-present Volvo T-Tec design that is a standard onto itself. Seating is very comfortable in the front and the back consists of two bucket seats that provide true comfort to the passenger’s rear and back. However like most hatch backs, leg room is a bit too cramped Cargo space is behind its competitors because o the diagonally slanting back that is pleasing to the eye but a bane to soccer moms who want added cargo room.

Safety & Reliability

Volvo is synonymous to safety and the 2011 Volvo C30 gets 10 out of 10 in terms of Safety. While the federal government has not yet crash tested the C30 but the Insurance Institute for Highway safety considers the C30 one of the best in terms of safety. The C30 comes standard with front and side airbags, inflatable curtain airbags.

The 2011 Volvo C30 carries a five-year/60,000-mile warranty. It also comes with complimentary factory scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles and five years of roadside assistance for new 2010 and 2011 vehicles.

Competition

The C30 competes with the Volkswagen GTI (MSRP $23,695; 21 city / 31 hwy), Mini Cooper S (MSRP $23,700; 27 city / 30 hwy), and the Mazda Speed3 (MSRP $23,700; 18 city / 25 hwy) all of which is priced lower than the C30 but provides better response, versatility and fuel economy. However in terms of horsepower and safety the C30 is superior, not to mention the wow factor that the hatchback and front end provides.

Pros & Cons

In closing, consumers who are looking for superior safety, a stylish exterior and comfy seats should take a look at the C30, that is of course if they can tolerate the small cargo and heavy price that the C30 commands.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2011 Volvo C30 provides a stylish look and feel, but that means plenty of sacrifices inside.”Car Connection

“With the manual transmission, C30 is eager to rev, with good throttle response and satisfying strength at mid-range speeds. With the automatic, C30 is similarly peppy in all situations, with smooth, crisp shifts.”Consumer Guide

“The 2011 Volvo C30 lacks the sharp handling of some rivals, but it’s got style and comfort in spades.”Edmunds

“The 2011 Volvo C30 receives a new grille, hood and front fenders and headlamps. A slight reshuffling of the equipment packages adds new features to some, while removing others to the stand-alone options list.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Coupe Hatchback	Base Price: $24,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15.9 gallons (60 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 29 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 167.4 in. (425 cm)	Width: 70.2 in. (178 cm)
Height: 57 in. (144.7 cm)	Wheel Base: 103.9 in. (263.9 cm)
Curb Weight: 3200 lbs (1451.5 kg)	Curb to Curb Turning Radius: 34.9 ft.
Luggage Capacity: 12.9 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 4 people

Performance

Engine: 2.5L DOHC 20-valve inline-5	Displacement: 2.5 liters
Horsepower: 227 HP	Max RPM: 5000 RPM
Torque: 236 lb-ft @ 1500-5000 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds	Max Towing Capacity: 2000 lbs (907 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:C30 R Design

MSRP: $27,100; MPG: 21 city / 29 hwy

The 2011 Edo Competition BMW M5 Touring Dark Edition is a family transport wagon that looks like a powerful car because of its black knight appearance. Most conspicuous are the two chromed twin exhaust pipes on both sides of the rear end of the vehicle which give an impression of power and force on any onlooker.

The tail pipes produce power sounds when the engines are revved up to full force. They are just a part of a highly efficient exhaust system that works hand in hand with the high-flow air filters and catalytic converters enabling the engine to achieve more than 500 horsepower output and a top speed of 305 km per hour. That is whopping 55-kilometer increase in top speed compared to the original M5.

The car can accelerate from zero to 100 kilometers per hour in 4.2 seconds, and from 100 kilometers per hour to 200 kilometers per hour in just 10 seconds. It is a really fast car but it is being admired as fine family car because of the wide 5 seat capacity and the huge cargo space available. There are very few vehicles that can match the performance of this black van with a powerful engine combining power and usability typical of family cars.

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $85,700.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 22.5 gallons (85 liters)	Miles Per Gallon: 12 city / 17 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 191 in. (485 cm)	Width: 78.5 in. (199 cm)
Height: 69.4 in. (176 cm)	Wheel Base: 115.5 in. (293 cm)
Curb Weight: 5368 lbs (2434.9 kg)	Gross Weight: 6471 lbs (2935 kg)
Luggage Capacity: 75.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 32-valve twin-turbocharged V10	Displacement: 5.0 LITERS*
Horsepower: 555* HP	Max RPM: 6000 RPM
Torque: 413 lb-ft* @ 1500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Shiftable Automatic
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds	Maximum Speed: 190 mph (305.7 km/h)

*Based on Modified Specifications

The Honda Odyssey minivan has been redesigned for 2011. However, this minivan was already a solid product that the new version didn’t have much to change. The only question, though, is that is it enough to attract people to go for a minivan.

From a sensible point of view, minivans can cover everything like that of any family transportation. Vans are more cost-efficient than a full-size SUV, more spacious than crossovers and way more adaptable to heavy loads than station wagons. If every vehicle purchase were a highly reasonable choice, then all of us would prefer to drive minivans.

Basically, the fourth-generation Honda Odyssey is a polished version of its predecessor, which was also a refinement of the second-generation Odyssey. Therefore, the new Odyssey is just the improved version of what’s already known as the best van.

Performance

Honda’s standard VCM, or Variable Cylinder Management, that turns off cylinders below engine loads, is placed on every Odyssey models’ 248-hp 3.5 l SOHC V6 engine. The previous year’s five-speed auto transaxle was based on LX and EX trims. The Touring trim features a new six-speed auto transmission that increases its EPA-graded fuel efficiency to 19 mpg in the city, one mpg improved than the older Odysseys. All the 2011 Odysseys are rated 27 mpg on the freeway.

Exterior

If you look on a different perspective, the 2011 Odyssey’s design, including the wide shoulders, sculpted nose as well as the lightning belt line stands out from the ultra-restrained metal of the previous Odysseys. What’s fascinating is that Honda continues on its visible sliding-door tracks. However, Honda cleverly made the tracks run similar to the back window and signifies the top of the taillights.

The roof has gone down 0.4 inches and the total width is up 2.1 inches, making the minivan look lower, more athletic and grounded. The inside headroom may be down by a pinch, giving the shoulder room more space.

The Honda’s chassis is still the most excellent in this category. The Odyssey’s independent suspension is unchanged. The MacPherson struts up front handle road bumps without compromising control, while the multilink system functions magnificently at the back. Using its controllable ride motions and outstanding steering sensation, sometimes, it’s unbelievable that the Odyssey is a minivan at all.

Interior

Odyssey’s new interior is simple, but it offers comfort and versatility. While it can seat eight people, it can still ensure everyone an enjoyable trip. There’s a variety of entertainment, including the new drop-down screen.

The Odyssey, however, lacks some sort of a smart seating system on the second row unlike Chrysler’s Stow ‘N Go seats that drop to the floor. Therefore, seats at the center are not suitable for people who are prone to hernia risks. Certainly, the seat folds to a well on a 60/40 split.

Features

The new chart-topping Odyssey Touring model is full of gadgets and is definitely more comfortable compared to many homes. The EX also has a detachable console as well as a “cool box” below the dash to keep drinks chilled on those hot summer days.

Another useful feature is the “multiview” camera at the back that shows a clear view of what’s at the back of the van as well as clear guidelines that indicate potential hazards. This technology makes the van more convenient to live with.

Regardless of the lightning belt line, the new Odyssey isn’t a major leap forward for vans. It’s more like of a baby step towards its kind and the vehicle by which all others has to be judged.

The alternatives to the Odyssey are the Chrysler Town & Country (MSRP $30,260; 17 city / 25 hwy) and the Toyota Sienna (MSRP $36,300; 18 city / 24 hwy).

Overall Rating
82 out of 100

What others say:

“For families carrying adults or kids alike in the second or third rows, the 2011 Honda Odyssey remains more comfortable and versatile than ever; it’s still the closest thing to a living room on wheels.”Car Connection

“Sporty for a minivan. Odyssey exhibits only moderate body lean in fast turns. The electrically assisted power steering feels very light at all speeds but maintains good response.”Consumer Guide

“Pricier than some competitors; some desirable options and features only offered on upper trim levels; button-heavy dash.”Edmunds

“The all-new, fourth-generation 2011 Honda Odyssey sports a bolder look and more of the people-pleasing features that have made the Odyssey a long-time family favorite.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Minivan	Base Price: $28,075.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 21 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 19 city / 28 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 202.9 in. (515 cm)	Width: 79.2 in. (201 cm)
Height: 68.4 in. (173 cm)	Curb Weight: 4337 lbs (1967 kg)
Wheel Base: 118.1 in. (299 cm)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 38.4 cu ft behind 3rd row	Maximum Seating: 7 people

Performance

Engine: 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® V6	Displacement: 3471 cc
Horsepower: 248 HP	Max RPM: 5700 RPM
Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.8 seconds	Towing Capacity: 3500 lbs (1587 kgs)

Available Trims & Engine

Option:EX	MSRP: $31,225; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:EX-L	MSRP: $34,725; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:EX-L w/ Rear Entertainment System	MSRP: $36,325; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:EX-L w/ Navigation System	MSRP: $36,725; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Touring	MSRP: $41,030; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy
Option:Touring Elite	MSRP: $43,525; MPG: 19 city / 28 hwy