Automotive experts and reviewers all regard the 2010 Volkswagen Passat as a more-than-decent choice for an affordable midsize car, providing unexpected sophistication and luxury expected in higher-class sedans. While the Passat is among the most expensive among its class, the top performance and styling more than makes up for what buyers may perceive as added costs compared to competitors.

Performance

Overall, the 2010 Volkswagen Passat provides very good performance, being one of the more well-balanced midsize family cars, but versatile enough to provide a sporty driving experience as well. The turbo-charged four-cylinder engine is appreciated but not remarkable enough to set it apart from other comparable models that offer more efficiency and maximized power.

It seems however that for a buyer to rationalize spending a bit more on an affordable midsize, it includes being prepared to spend more for gas, since the 2010 Passat unfortunately does not provide stellar fuel efficiency. But overall, the Volkswagen Passat is sure to appeal to car owners who aim for visual appeal and European engineering—a best in class for the affordable midsize market.

Interior & Exterior

Indeed, the Volkswagen Passat has seemingly found a niche and strong reputation for being an affordable midsize family car that somehow bridges the gap to full-size luxury sedans. The interiors are tastefully executed, with a near-luxury level of sophistication. To match this mild-mannered, executive feel is the actual ride, which is smooth, comfortable, and precise. Suspension tuning makes it a joy to drive. It also ranks high on safety and reliability, making it the perfect family sedan on weekends.

The classic design of the Passat also increases its cache as an unassuming, elegant car. It has not undergone drastic changes over the decades, and while there have been reports that Volkswagen has been scaling back production of the Passat substantially over the past few years, buyers should not worry about the endurance of this model originally launched in the early 1970s. For the 2010 model, Volkswagen is creating only a single-variant level, available either as a sedan or a wagon. The manufacturer offers free scheduled maintenance for the first three years or 36,000 miles on all Passat cars.

Competition

Car buyers who prefer a sporty midsize variety might want to look at the Mazda 6 (MSRP $14,881; 20 city / 29 hwy) or the Ford Fusion (MSRP $15,948; 22 city / 29 hwy), which are also both more affordable than the 2010 Volkswagen Passat. The all-new Kizashi (MSRP $17,465; 20 city / 29 hwy) from Suzuki is among the smallest offerings in the midsize category, but is the sportiest choice thus far among the lot.

The Volkswagen CC (MSRP $23,414; 21 city / 31 hwy) is another midsize choice from the European automaker, which is very similar to the Passat in presentation and components, but provides an even more aspirational, upscale styling. The CC is actually billed as the Passat CC in other markets such as China.

Safety & Warranty

The 2010 Volkswagen Passat boasts of an exterior styling that is quite mainstream—arriving with a commanding profile but in a quiet manner. The upscale experience is most illustrated by the well-appointed interiors and comfortable seating. Thanks to European engineering, safety is well-achieved, with the previous 2009 model even garnering a “Top Safety Pick” from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Overall reliability is a bit low on the scale, but with the basic three-year or 36,000-mile warranty, buyers can rest assured of continuous maintenance and vehicle support.

Pros & Cons

For middle-class families who can afford to spend a little bit more for a luxury experience in a household car, the 2010 Volkswagen Passat is a difficult choice to pass up on. It melds the sophistication and fine taste of German automotive manufacturing with daily practicality and enjoyable functionality.

Overall Rating
71 out of 100

What others say:

“Although the proportions are conservative and won’t be a hit with everyone, the details in the 2010 Volkswagen Jetta are still universally appealing and upscale.”Car Connection

“The turbocharged 4-cylinder is sprightly from a stop and is impressive in mid-range and highway passing.”Consumer Guide

“Though it only comes in turbocharged four-cylinder form, the 2010 Volkswagen Passat is a compelling proposition for those who prefer sophisticated road manners and an upscale cabin to V6 vigor.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $22,305.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 22 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.2 in. (478 cm)	Width: 71.7 in. (182 cm)
Height: 58 in. (147 cm)	Curb Weight: 3331 lbs (1511 kg)
Wheel Base: 106.7 in. (271 cm)	Ground Clearance: 5.2 in. (13 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 14.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 2.0L DOHC inline-4	Displacement: NA
Horsepower: 200 hp	Max RPM: 5100 rpm
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automated Manual
0-60 mph: NA	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Passat Komfort SULEV Turbo	MSRP: $22,272; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:Passat Komfort PZEZ Turbo	MSRP: $22,316; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy

The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour is a crossover wagon between multiple genres. But it is primarily based on a sedan. This is just larger and more of a wagon-like version of Honda’s midsize cars. And although it is packed with many good features, this model also comes with a few flaws.

This model gives paramount importance to comfort as emphasized by its upscale interior with roomy seating and a quiet cabin. It is also easy to control because of its car-like driving dynamics and is available in all-wheel drive.

However, some customers and experts are not really fond of its controversial styling and compromised cargo capacity. There are also those who say that this model suffers from odd proportions and snout. And lastly, though it does not really come at par with the functionality offered by its competitors, this model is one of the most expensive crossovers in the market.

Performance

When it comes to what is under the hood, the Accord Crosstour comes with a 3.5-liter V6 engine as a standard. It is capable of 271 horsepower with 254 pound-feet of torque. And when it comes to transmission, only a five-speed automatic is available. And although this model has a front-wheel drive as a standard, you can enjoy an all-wheel drive for the EX-L unit.

A lot of customers love the fact that this model is one of the most luxurious and smooth-riding crossovers available today. Fuel economy has also been rated as above average; but it still falls short. There are also owners who complain of sluggish brakes.

Exterior & Interior

When it comes to the exterior, this model has received a lot of negative comments. The odd proportions are unappealing to some. But if you are the type who wants to draw attention while driving around the streets, then the Crosstour is the perfect vehicle for you.

Besides this highly-controversial exterior feature, this model also sports an aerodynamic look with a sloping roofline as well as side body lines that go from the front to the rear part of the vehicle. Others also find its higher ride height, bold front frill and full fender arches to be muscular.

As for the interior, this model has also received a mix of praises and criticisms. This model still has the same five-passenger seating capacity, dash display, audio controls, and steering wheel. A lot of customers like its luxurious interior with a very upscale and quiet cabin. The seats are also made of premium leather which a lot of users love. However, the rear seats do not recline. Some also say that the front seats, although really nice, can be narrow for some passengers. There are those who find that its cargo capacity has been compromised.

Safety

In terms of safety, the 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour received five-star rating for both the frontal and side crash tests. It also garnered a four-star overall rating which is still good. All in all, it did very well in federal government crash tests.

As for the added safety features, you will find standard side curtain airbags, Anti-Lock Brakes, Brake Assist and Electronic Brake-force Distribution feature, and a Vehicle Stability Assist with Traction Control.

Reliability

And when it comes to reliability, this model garnered an overall score of 8 out of 10 based on the Predicted Reliability rating of the J.D. Power. It also comes with a three-year/36,000-mile basic warranty as well as a five-year/60,000-mile power train warranty. Essentially, since this model came from Honda, you can be assured of a top quality and durable vehicle.

Competition

Finally, some of the competitors of this model include the Cadillac SRX (MSRP $28,088; 18 city / 25 hwy) and the Acura ZDX (MSRP $46,020; 16 city / 23 hwy). But when it comes to its direct competitors, the Honda Accord Crosstour needs to improve to be at par with the Toyota Venza (MSRP $27,125; 21 city / 27 hwy) which has more cargo capacity and better fuel economy, as well as the Subaru Outback (MSRP $23,195; 19 city / 27 hwy) with better cargo capacity, fuel economy and an all-wheel drive as a standard.

Overall Rating
72 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2010 Honda Crosstour is an unusual beast—so unusual that the first time you see one you’ll likely stand back, size it up, and scratch your head a bit.Then you’re probably going to say something along the lines of, “I love it!” or “I don’t see the point.” Yes, it’s that polarizing.”Car Connection

“While Accord sedans and coupes are on the sporty side of the midsize class, nothing about the Crosstour is especially engaging. This is a competent, somewhat large car, with acceptable road manners.”Consumer Guide

“Compromised cargo capacity, button-heavy center stack, controversial styling.”Edmunds

“The 2010 Honda Accord Crosstour incorporates many of the Accord family’s styling cues into a bolder, bigger and more cargo-friendly package.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Hatchback	Base Price: $29,670.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 196.8 in. (499.8 cm)	Width: 74.7 in. (189.7 cm)
Height: 65.8 in. (167.1 cm)	Curb Weight: 3852 lbs (1747 kg)
Wheel Base: 110.1 in. (279 cm)	Ground Clearance: 8.1 in. (20.5 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 25.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 3.5L 24-Valve SOHC i-VTEC® V6	Displacement: 3471 cc
Horsepower: 271 HP	Max RPM: 6200 RPM
Torque: 254 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: 7.2 seconds	1/4 Mile: 15.4 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:2011 EX Auto	MSRP: $29,990; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:2011 EX-L 2WD 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $32,890; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:2011 EX-L 4WD 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $34,340; MPG: 18 city / 26 hwy

The 2010 Volkswagen CC is perfect for a family outing. This family sedan performs well and has a lot of perks for you to enjoy. It is very practical and at the same time you can really appreciate its performance. VW says that the letters CC means comfort coupe and by the name alone, you will know that this car can give you the comfort and relaxation that you needed. This car looks awesome in and out and at first glance it could really look like a very expensive sedan.

The CC is an all-wheel drive vehicle which gives it a lot of advantages over its competitors. In addition, the customer has a choice between the very popular turbo-charged 4 cylinder engine and the equally powerful V6. This sedan is considered an upscale automobile because of its sleek and curvy body, characterized by stylish lines and a narrow tail. VW sure knows how to add a little spice into the design of this car. All the materials used in the CC are all of high quality and of caliber standards.

Performance

The engine’s strong performance can be attributed to its turbo charged 4 cylinder motor which produces 200 HP and 207 pound feet of torque. You will definitely enjoy driving this sedan with its AMT or automated manual transmission, DSG. In addition, you will be able to save a lot of fuel with its fuel saver feature. If you are driving on the highway, you can reach 31 mpg on your fuel consumption but if you are driving in the city, you can save 22 mpg. You know that you have to save money for the future and VW is helping you to do this.

Interior & Exterior

The biggest drawback about the VW CC is you will be compromising on passenger and baggage capacity. The car’s backseat can only accommodate two people and if your passengers are quite tall, they have no other choice but to slouch on their seats so their head will not hit the roof line. The seats are very comfortable. On the outside, a lot of people say that the VW CC is a real looker because of its stylish exteriors and the sleek feature of a sports car and the flexibility of a 4 door sedan rolled into one.

Safety

This car is very safe to use for it had passed the crash tests conducted by the Federal government. It earned a whooping four stars out of five in most of the test but it scored five stars on the driver’s protection against side impact or crash. When it comes to safety gadgets, accessories such as head curtain air bags were made available for you. If you have a kid, you can just de-activate the rear seat side airbag to make room for the installation of a kid’s safety seat.

Competition

A lot of reviewers say that the Volkswagen CC is quite expensive. It is slightly priced higher than other mid-sized sedans in the same class like the Honda Accord (MSRP $17,871; 22 city / 31 hwy) and the Malibu (MSRP $15,321; 22 city / 30 hwy). However, when it comes to quality and drivability, the VW CC comes in ahead. This sleek car can really drive you wherever you want to go in style.

Pros & Cons

Many reviewers find the price unappealing. They say that the car’s price can be compared to the price of a luxury sedan and most people cannot afford it. On a lighter side, the advantage of this car is that it is very attractive in and out. In addition, it also sports a beautiful 2 tone interior feature coupled with quality materials.

Overall Rating
79 out of 100

What others say:

“The 2010 Volkswagen CC follows a stunning, coupe-like silhouette similar to that of the Mercedes CLS, with frameless windows and a long, flowing design.”Car Connection

“The CC is very solid and stable at highway speeds. Only sharp pavement imperfections come through as overly harsh.”Consumer Guide

“The 2010 Volkswagen CC is a stylish and strong-performing alternative to mainstream midsize sedans. If you can live with seating for four, it merits serious consideration.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $23,414.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 21 city / 31 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 188.9 in. (479.8 cm)	Width: 73 in. (185 cm)
Height: 55.8 in. (141.7 cm)	Curb Weight: 3300 lbs (1497 kg)
Wheel Base: 106.7 in. (271 cm)	Ground Clearance: 4.6 in. (11.7 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 2.0L DOHC 16-valve inline-4	Displacement: NA
Horsepower: 200 hp	Max RPM: 5100 rpm
Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1700 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.3 seconds	1/4 Mile: 14.8 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:Sport PZEV	MSRP: $24,434; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:Luxury – Turbo	MSRP: $27,820; MPG: 22 city / 31 hwy
Option:3.6L V6 – VR6 Sport Sedan	MSRP: $32,938; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

Once again, the automobile giant Honda has come up with another great addition to its stable of top quality cars—the 2011 Honda Accord. This is actually the eighth generation of the Honda Accord model. Compared to the Honda Accord released in 2010, this one has undergone some aesthetic improvements to make it more stylish. In fact, it was planned by the company to make this one look more like a four-door coupe rather than a family sedan.

As it turns out, there are really a couple of noticeable improvements when this model came out in the market. The front grill, bumper and rear deck lid have all been updated. This model also comes with a new set of wheels. There were also some tweaks made on the inside. Now, the Accord is available with a new leather-equipped Special Edition or SE trim.

Performance

The Honda Accord comes with 3-powerful-engine line up mainly because of its topnotch engineering for which it is known for. Thus, it gives you a wide variety of options to choose from when you are very particular about motors. But all the same, each choice will guarantee you of a powerful engine with top quality performance.

With this model, you have two options for 2.3-liter four-cylinder engines—180 horsepower with 161 pound-feet of torque or 190 horsepower with 162 pound-feet of torque. Both these engines come with a five-speed manual transmission. You still have the option to go with the five-speed automatic transmission.

The other engine option is the 3.5-liter V6 engine with 275 horsepower and a six-speed manual transmission. It also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. For some, this is the best feature of 2011 Accord’s engine line up. It even comes with an updated version of the Variable Cylinder Management Technology which is a great aid in fuel economy.

Exterior & Interior

As previously mentioned, the 2011 Accord comes with a more stylish exterior. As a matter of fact, some reviews even hail the exterior design as futuristic. But what it is common among all reviews is that this model has been given a fresh and substantial new look. The side sculpting has been deeply angular. The fender flares are also very much pronounced and the headlights seem to be pulled back.

This model is also the largest of all the Honda Accord models. It also comes with the Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure that improves it collision compatibility with SUVs. It has been given a more sporty, aggressive and coupe-like appearance which is definitely a hit among many customers.

Honda revamped its interior as well. Although a lot of people consider this model as a mid-size sedan, its interior can be compared to that of larger sedans. Thus, there is more room for wider seats as well as a large two-arm console. You will also find audio controls embedded on the steering wheel. There is also a dial-controlled eight-inch LCD display. When it comes to the leather seats, there are some who love it, but there are also those who complain of numbness after long hours of driving.

Safety

This model comes with safety features to guarantee that you will have confidence when you drive. For one, it comes with antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control, as well as front side airbags and side curtain airbags.

And in the strenuous crash testing for 2011, this model garnered a five-star rating for overall performance, side-impact and front-impact protection.

Competition

Finally, the Accord finds competition with the 2011 Toyota Camry (MSRP $21,650; 22 city / 33 hwy) as it pertains to sales, resale value and dependability ratings. On the other hand, it is coming close in the midsize-class sales race with the 2011 Hyundai Sonata (MSRP $19,695; 24 city / 35 hwy) which has been attracting more buyers since it has been redesigned. Lastly, the 2011 Ford Fusion (MSRP $22,830; 23 city / 33 hwy) is also a rival of the 2011 Honda Accord when it comes to sales.

Overall Rating
80 out of 100

What others say:

“Inside, the Accord models are either fashion-forward, or a little drab and unintuitive—depending on your tastes and, frankly, which trim level you get… “Car Connection

“All Accords feel refined and solid. Large bumps bring out some unexpected harshness in most models, but it’s never bothersome.”Consumer Guide

“Intrusive road noise; so-so interior quality; seats uncomfortable.”Edmunds

“With styling and performance that splits the difference between the sportier Nissan Altima and softer Toyota Camry, the Honda Accord embodies the very balance that attracts so many buyers to the mid-size sedan segment in the first place.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $21,380.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.5 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 23 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 194.9 in. (495 cm)	Width: 72.7 in. (184.6 cm)
Height: 58.1 in. (147.5 cm)	Curb Weight: 3217 lbs (1459 kg)
Wheel Base: 110.2 in. (280 cm)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: 14.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5 people

Performance

Engine: 16-Valve DOHC i-VTEC® inline 4-Cylinder	Displacement: 2354 cc
Horsepower: 177 HP	Max RPM: 6500 RPM
Torque: 161 lb-ft @ 4300 rpm	Transmission: 5-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds	1/4 Mile: 14.6 seconds

Available Trims & Engine

Option:LX-P 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $23,180; MPG: 23 city / 34 hwy
Option:EX 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $25,105; MPG: 23 city / 34 hwy
Option:EX V6 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $27,280; MPG: 20 city / 30 hwy
Option:LX Coupe 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $23,780; MPG: 22 city / 33 hwy
Option:Crosstour EX 2WD 5-spd Auto	MSRP: $29,990; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy

The 2011 KTM X-Bow R is a radically designed car created by the Austrian motorcycle company KTM. With performance that can only be described as spectacular, it captured the fancy of the automotive world. With top of the line X-Bow R, KTM is claiming that this car would be the new benchmark for supercars.

The X-Bow R uses carbon fiber to build its monocoque chassis as well as the body. This allows it to be one of the lightest cars in the world, with only the Caterham CSR and the Lotus 2-11 being its closest rivals when it comes to weight. The underbody as well as a rear diffuser further improves aerodynamics.

In addition, the 2011 KTM X-Bow R is the most powerful X-Bow yet. A 2.0 turbocharged FSI engine supplied by Audi, the same engine used in the S3, is used to power this car. With an output of 300 horsepower, being equipped in such a lightweight frame allows for some amazing performance numbers. It can go from zero to 100 kph in less than 4 seconds, and from zero to 100 mph in less than 9 seconds.

Don’t be deceived by the strange shape of this car. This is a legitimate supercar that can take on exotics any given day. And don’t mistake it as a track-only device. It’s street legal too.

Specifications

Vehicle Type: SuperCar	Base Price: $88,000.00
Engine: 2.0-liter TFSI inline-4	Horsepower: 240 hp
Max RPM: 5500 rpm	Torque: 310 lb-ft @ 2000-5000 rpm
Displacement: 2000 cc	Aspiration: Turbo
0-60 mph: 3.2 seconds	Maximum Speed: 168 mph (270 kmh)