Ford itself has said—the 2011 Ford Explorer is the sports utility vehicle or SUV of the 21st century. It is jam-packed with the edgy features and cool packages that will surely sweep you off your feet.

The 2011 Ford Explorer is a crossover. It boasts of a large cabin space, towing capacity, and off-road versatility characteristic of sports utility vehicles. At the same time, it combines these with crossover attributes of cars which are smoother rides as well as safety and fuel economy. Thus, this is perfect for those who want to maintain a rugged look without sacrificing comfort.

Performance

For its engine, it has the following high quality features. First, it comes with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost I-4 which means that you can be guaranteed to receive as much as 237 horsepower as well as 250 lb.-ft of torque. Similarly, you will also love its 3.5-liter Ti-VCT V-6 which has 290 horsepower and 255 lb.-ft of torque.

This also comes with automatic transmissions that have six speeds or gears. It is equipped with an electric power-assisted steering or EPAS. This is a great help if you want to lessen parasitic power loss in your automobile.

You will also fall for the twin independent variable camshaft timing as well as its optimized tires that are specifically designed to reduce rolling resistance which paves the way for a smoother ride. And lastly, this baby comes with an intelligent four-wheel drive and a variable-displacement air conditioning system in its compressor.

All these features of the engine of the 2011 Ford Explorer will surely give you the ride that will suit your needs and preferences.

Exterior

But wait, there is more. This model’s exterior is also to-die-for. It has a very handsome and stylish exterior which will definitely make heads turn because of its classy but rugged design. Apparently, the designers made it a point to make it look more like a sports utility vehicle despite its being a crossover. It fives off a squared-off look unlike other sports utility vehicles which have the tendency to be rounded. The rear part of the vehicle is really contemporary in design.

It is also shorter than its contemporaries which make it even easier for you to park it.

Interior

When it comes to the interior, this model definitely has a lot to boast about. Some even say that it is not only futuristic; it is also easily the best in its class. The inside is still as gorgeous as the outside. The cabin is not only upscale; it is also extremely comfortable as well.

The two-tone dashboard as well as the leather seats looked very sophisticated. As for the doors, they were also decked out in two-tone coverings And for those who have always wanted to feel the traditional feeling of being seated in a conventional sports utility vehicle, you can still have the same high-above-the road SUC perch.

Safety & Reliability

And lastly, the Explorer also comes with standard safety features that make this model ever-reliable and dependable. Here are some of them.

For one, there is a tire pressure monitoring system which is actually a common problem among motorists. This model also comes with the advanced feature of Advance Tracwith RSC which features the Curve Control function so as to provide breaking just when you need it to avoid accidents. There is also an SOS Post-crash Alert System and LARCH system. Safety canopy side curtain bags are also built into this model.

Competition

The Explorer is not new in the market, this model can definitely battle it out against the big names in the same category like the Jeep Grand Cherokee (MSRP $31,040; 16 city/ 23 hwy), Nissan Pathfinder (MSRP $29,380; 15 city/ 20 hwy), and Toyota 4 Runner(MSRP $31,115; 17 city/ 23 hwy). This is also true for the Chevrolet Traverse (MSRP $34,820; 16 city/ 23 hwy), Dodge Durango (MSRP $42,870; 16 city/ 23 hwy), and Honda Pilot(MSRP $31,980; 17 city/ 23 hwy); that continue to improve the product to sell in the market, just like the 2011 Ford Explorer.

Overall Rating
69 out of 100

What others say:

“Redesigned for 2011, the Explorer shares its car-based platform with the larger Ford Flex.”Consumer Reports

“The 2011 Ford Explorer a formidable shot right at the heart of the crossover market–one that’s sure to pull some of the remaining SUV loyalists off their very high horses…”The Car Connection

“The 2011 Ford Explorer is redesigned, with freshened styling, a new engine, and new features…The AWD system includes a console dial that alters throttle and other settings to accommodate mud, sand, and snow. Standard on all models is a 290-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine.”Consumer Guide

“For all of the noteworthy changes Ford wrought on the 2011 Explorer, the transformation in its dynamic character is arguably the most profound. Moving to a unit-body configuration endows this SUV/crossover with a far smoother, more compliant yet better-controlled ride.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: SUV	Base Price: $ 28,360.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 25 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 197.1 in. (501 cm)	Width: 78.9 in. (200 cm)
Height: 70.4 in. (179 cm)	Weight: 4275 lbs (1939 kg)
Wheel Base: 112.6 in. (286 cm)	Ground Clearance: 7.6 in. (19 cm) unladen
Luggage Capacity: Max. Cargo Vol. 80.7 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 8

Performance

Engine: 3.5L Twin independent Variable Camshaft Timing (TiVCT) V6	Compression Ratio: 10.8:1
Horsepower: 283 hp	Max RPM: 6500 rpm
Torque: 252 lb-ft @ 4100 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Automatic
0-60 mph: N/A	1/4 Mile: N/A

Available Trims & Engine

Option:XLT – 3.5L TiVCT V6 Engine	MSRP: $31,520; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy
Option:Limited – 3.5L TiVCT V6 Engine	MSRP: $37,535; MPG: 17 city / 25 hwy

If you are looking for the perfect automobile for your family, then the 2011 Ford Fusion should be at the top of your list.

As a matter of fact, it is one of the most Affordable Midsize Cars. Do not be misled though because even though it is an affordable midsize sedan, its features are definitely those of the top notch expensive cars. There are also new key features added to this model that makes it way better than the previous generations.

One is the rain-sensing wipers. It also comes with the high definition Radio and Ford’s My Key system. If you are a parent, then you would definitely love this since it will allow you to limit the top speed of your car as well as the volume of the audio when your teenagers are the ones driving the car. There is also a continuous chiming when their seatbelts are not buckled to remind them of that. And it also comes with low-fuel warnings. This is definitely good for safety purposes.

Of course, the Ford Fusion comes with the standard and unique Sync system. This lets you give turn-by-turn directions without necessarily having to install an expensive navigation screen. As a matter of fact, you can control it with your voice.

Performance

When it comes to performance, you can be assured of a 9 out of 10 stars rating for this model. It is available in front or all-wheel drive. There are also three different engines and transmissions for you to choose from. Thus, you have a lot of choices to make sure that the car you will purchase you will definitely suit your needs and preferences.

Here are the three different engines for the 2011 Ford Fusion. The base and standard is the 2.5-liter and four-cylinder engine. It is capable of producing as much as 175 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. This is coupled with a manual transmission of 6 speeds as a standard. But you also have the option of going for a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control if you want.

The 3.0-liter V6 with 240 horsepower and 223 pound-feet torque is available in certain models. It also comes with a six-speed automatic transmission. And lastly, the Sport model of this line comes with an exclusive 3.5-liter V6 powerful engine that can generate up to 263 horsepower and 249 pound-feet torque.

Exterior

When it comes to the exterior, you will be amazed with the new Fusion. A large grille as well as slicker lights dominates the front area of this model. On the other hand, the rear area looks to be more subtle. This model also comes with standard body-colored door handles and bumpers in the front and rear side. The 16-inch alloy wheels are also stylish and so are the 18-inch wheels of Sport models.

Interior

The interior of this model is also top notch. It is very spacious and you can fit five people in its cabin comfortably. The materials used in making the interior are also upscale. The ergonomics have also been improved.

Safety

Finally, this model has been named as the Top Safety Pick. Thus you can be assured that it has excellent safety features. It performed very well in the front, side, roof, and rear strength tests. This model also comes with an electronic stability control.

In the end, the bottom line with here is that it is ideal for the family. It is likewise a practical choice for drivers in the city. It has excellent looks, is fuel efficient, and it does not cost much for its advanced and edgy features. And of course, the Ford puts safety first.

Overall Rating
76 out of 100

What others say:

“With increased power and torque plus advanced six-speed transmissions, even four-cylinder 2011 Ford Fusion models have plenty in hand to cope with all normal city/highway traffic demands.”KBB

“Midway through its life span, the 2011 Ford Fusion still looks the part of a crisply executed family sedan.”The Car Connection

“The midsized Fusion is one of our higher-rated family cars. High points include a competent ride and strong acceleration.”Consumer Report

“The 2011 Ford Fusion is largely unchanged following its freshening for the 2010 model year. This midsize sedan lends its basic design to the premium-midsize Lincoln MKZ. Fusion reprises S, SE, SEL, Sport, and gas/electric Hybrid trim levels, all with front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is offered on select V6 versions.”Consumer Guide

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Sedan	Base Price: $ 19,850.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 17.5 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 23 city / 33 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 190.6 in. (484 cm)	Width: 72.2 in. (183 cm)
Height: 56.8 in. (144 cm)	Weight: 3285 lbs (1490 kg)
Wheel Base: 107.4 in. (273 cm)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: Trunk Vol. 16.5 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 2.5L DOHC Duratec 16Valve I-4	Compression Ratio: 9.7:1
Horsepower: 175 hp	Max RPM: 6000 rpm
Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 6.8 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:I4 SE – 2.5L Duratec I4 engine	MSRP: $22,830; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:V6 SE – 3.0L Duratec FFV V6	MSRP: $24,425; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:SEL I4 2.5 Duratec I4 engine	MSRP: $25,300; MPG: 23 city / 33 hwy
Option:SEL V6 – 3.0 Duratec FFV V6	MSRP: $26,910; MPG: 22 city / 30 hwy
Option:Sport 3.5L Duratec V6	MSRP: $27,150; MPG: 18 city / 27 hwy
Option:Hybrid	MSRP: $28,600; MPG: 41 city / 36 hwy

The Audi R8 is perhaps one of the best rated exotic cars in the market. How can you go wrong with the best looking car with the best features? It even ranks well in reliability and safety in its class.

Performance

This car was first introduced in 2008 and has been improving in design ever since. This is Audi’s first attempt in making an exotic car and the critics love how the car company is keeping up with its goal. They exceeded everyone’s expectations with this model though. However, the critics have longed for a better, stronger engine: more brute force. So to grant these critics’ wishes, Audi revamped the R8 with a 525 horsepower v10 engine just like the 2010 Lamborghini Gallardo. With more power, the R8 is better than ever.

Exterior & Interior

It has been said that the R8 would be a good driving experience, and true enough; the critics praised the car for its excellent exterior design, speed, comfort and handling dynamics. Performance-wise, the R8 delivers. It’s fast and smooth on the road, but at the same time, it is comfortable. It is very comfortable that you might want to use it for your everyday errands. It is very user friendly, and the additional power is like cherry on top. There are two models: automatic and manual transmission. The critics have mixed reviews regarding the two models. Most prefer the manual transmission but they say that the automatic transmission is smoother and more stable. It’s a personal choice.

The R8’s interior is also garnering good reviews because of its roomy cabins, comfortable seats and its solid build. The car is only limited to two passengers which is expected of a sports car. The interior features of this car come with the standard issue effects, but the navigation is not at par with the American versions. The cargo room is limited and the sun-visor can be hard to reach. The exterior design of the R8 is well-loved, and it strength lies on its futuristic design. The detailing is superb, the graphics are aggressive: it’s a car gorgeous looking car and it lives up to its look.

Safety

The R8 is not tested for safety and crash testing but it features standard safety equipment. It has an all-wheel drive system and has an electronic stabilization program. This is waiting for Federal Safety Test or at least an insurance company safety test. The critics are not very happy about the visibility though. It has blind spots, especially for tall people because the roof rolls down quite quickly that you have to duck to see.

It is difficult to see the rear too, because of the bulk of the engine, which is installed at the back of the vehicle. There is a backup camera that can help though. It is an optional feature. The reliability of the care is not that bad. It is covered by a 50000 miles / Five years basic warranty (whatever comes first) and a special 12 years anti-corrosion protection as well as having a 2 year 24 hour roadside assistance.

Reliability

The Audi R8 is a good, sturdy and beautiful sports car. It runs smooth; it is fast, reliable with because of its Bavarian quality and is both beautiful and functional. It is also very comfortable. This is a very good sports car. A Bavarian hunk with an Italian soul, this car is excellent but not perfect.

Collectors and car aficionados love the Audi R8’s sporty design. The car’s big cabin also offer comfort than the other cars in this same class, like the Porsche 911 Turbo (MSRP $ 143,800; 16 city / 23 hwy), Mercedes Benz SL63 AMG (MSRP $ 145,200; 11 city / 18 hwy), and the Lamborghini LP560-4 (MSRP $ 221,600; 12 city / 20 hwy).

Overall Rating
73 out of 100

What others say:

“Teutonic handling perfection meets its dream match in the 2011 Audi R8’s lusty, Italian-engineered V-10 heart.”Car Connection

“The R8 offers head-turning style, pulse-quickening performance, and superb build quality, yet is quiet and comfortable enough for daily commuting.”Consumer Guide

“Acceleration and braking capabilities are impressive, and the ride is very firm but not too punishing. Steering is communicative and responsive, and the car is extremely nimble.”Consumer Report

“Potent engine choices; slick manual shifter; comfortable cabin; easy to drive.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sports Car AWD	Base Price: $114,200.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 12 city / 19 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 174.6 in. (443.5 cm)	Width: 79.9 in. (203 cm)
Height: 49.3 in. (125.2 cm)	Curb Weight: 3715 lbs (1685 kg)
Wheel Base: 104.3 in. (265 cm)	Ground Clearance: 4.33 in. (11 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 3.53 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 2

Performance

Engine: 5.2L DOHC V10	Displacement: 317.6 cu in (5204 cc)
Horsepower: 525 hp	Max RPM: 8000 rpm
Torque: 391 lb-ft @ 6500 rpm	Transmission: 6-Speed Manual
0-60 mph: 3.7 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:R8 4.2L

MSRP: $114,200; MPG: 13 city / 21 hwy

Whether it is about cruising around and showing off or finding a car to show off, most will opt for luxury cars. Some may find these machines too expensive for anyone’s taste, but for these folks, nothing will get in their way. However, the real problem here is the choice of car to get maximum satisfaction out of. If that is the case, then people will most likely pick their favorite brand, Audi. This German company has been manufacturing eye-candies for years, and one recent model is the 2011 Audi A8.

Performance

The 2011 A8 makes use of a 4.2 V8 direct fuel injection engine that is capable of delivering a maximum of up to 372 horsepower. The integrated FSI technology works by injecting a calculated amount of fuel into the cylinders of the engine proportional to the volume of air. This combination of fluids creates a spiraling effect, thereby increasing the combustion efficiency of the engine. Using the eight-speed Tiptronic Transmission, the power of the engine is transmitted via shift-by-wire for quick acceleration changes without too much oil consumption.

The vehicle also features the Quattro all-wheel drive system, which enhances the dynamics of the vehicle. It also makes use of the Servotronic speed sensitive steering. The Audi Drive Select is another function that enables users to choose modes like Comfort mode or Dynamic mode. The adaptive air suspension of the vehicle is designed to increase the responsiveness of the vehicle, and the advanced breaking system is designed for better heat dissipation.

The performance of the Audi A8 is impressive with its enhanced systems. It has good handling and stability, thanks to the Quattro all-wheel drive system, and the engine, although not the fastest, has exceptional power and fuel efficiency.

Exterior & Interior

The exterior design of this car is neat and polished, but the design may not be new or striking to a few. The interior design of the car is different however, with its high-quality construction and details. The only thing that keeps the interior design from becoming almost perfect is its smaller-than-normal cabin.

Safety & Reliability

In terms of safety, the model has not yet undergone rigorous official tests by the government, but currently it includes the standard car safety measures like traction and stability control through the Quattro all-wheel drive system, anti-lock brakes, and front, side-curtain, front-side, and rear-side airbags. An optional Driver Assistance Package is available for added safety measures, which consists of a pre-collision warning system, blind spot monitoring, infrared vision system with pedestrian detection, land departure warning systems, and the optional rearview camera. As of now, the only issue is the poor rear visibility. The vehicle has also not been subjected to reliability tests. It currently comes with a four-year or 50000-mile warranty.

Competition

Some people may yearn to find other alternatives in case they do not find the A8 to their liking.

One is the Mercedes Benz S550 (MSRP $93,000; 15 city/ 23 hwy). The Lexus LS (MSRP $74,980; 16 city / 24 hwy) may also be an alternative to the A8 with its equally-gorgeous interior at a lower price. This does not have the prized Quattro all-wheel drive system of the A8, but in order to match that an optional package may also be purchased. The LS is also inferior to the A8 in terms of agility and fuel efficiency. The purchaser may also choose from the BMW 7-Series, specifically the 740i (MSRP $71,000; 17 city / 25 hwy) or the 750i (MSRP $84,300; 15 city / 22 hwy), which are faster and more agile than the A8. They are less expensive and more powerful compared to the A8, but they also lack the Quattro system. The addition of the xDrive may do the trick, but it would still not match the fuel efficiency of the A8.

Although the 2011 Audi A8 has poor rearward visibility, an unusual gearshift lever, and subpar power, it definitely shines with its stability, beautiful interior, and fuel efficiency.

Overall Rating
86 out of 100

What others say:

“Thanks to its lightweight aluminum underpinnings, the 2011 Audi A8 feels more athletic and responsive than other big luxury sport sedans.”Car Connection

“The trunk has a usefully cubic shape but unexceptional volume. The aperture is too small for bulky boxes.”Consumer Guide

“The sumptuous and tasteful cabin has nearly every comfort feature known to man, and a long list of high-tech safety features puts this car on the leading edge of safety engineering. However, the controls are abundant and complicated.”Consumer Report

“Fuel economy ratings are impressive for such a large, powerful luxury sedan, as both A8 versions rate 17 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 21 mpg combined.”Edmunds

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Luxury Sedan	Base Price: $78,050.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 23.8 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 27 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 207.4 in. (526.7 cm)	Width: 83.1 in. (211 cm)
Height: 57.9 in. (147 cm)	Weight: 4453 lbs (2019 kg)
Wheel Base: 122.9 in. (312 cm)	Ground Clearance: 4.72 in. (12 cm)
Luggage Capacity: 13.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 5

Performance

Engine: 4.2L DOHC V8 w/ FSI®	Displacement: 4163 cc
Horsepower: 372 hp	Max RPM: 6800 rpm
Torque: 328 lb-ft @ 3500 rpm	Transmission: 8-Speed Tiptronic®Automatic
0-60 mph: 5.7 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:A8 L

MSRP: $84,875; MPG: 17 city / 27 hwy

If you are looking for a new automobile, then the 2011 Ford Flex may be a wise choice.

This is a brand new model in the automobile giant’s new vehicle collection. Do not be deceived though because this has easily earned a top score among sports utility vehicles. And one of the best things about this model is that Ford allows you to choose the mirror finishes and roof color according to your preferences.

You also have the freedom to use bigger wheels and a houndstooth-plaid interior. Some even say that it is as American as an old Ford Fairline. But it is definitely Chanel smart.

If you are going to look under the hood of this baby, then prepared to be amazed. Here are some of the features you will find.

Performance

Currently, the automobile giant gas two powertrain offerings for the latest Ford Flex. First, of course is the standard engine which is a 3.5-liter V6 engine with a variable valve timing. And these are attached to an automatic transmission which has 6 speeds or gears.

This type of engine will guarantee you a 262 horsepower coupled with 248 pound-feet of torque. While this may not be among the best among its contemporaries and class, it still sure is decent. On the other hand, the 2011 Flex is among the topnotchers when it comes to fuel economy. At an estimate, it reaches up to 17 miles per gallon on a city and 24 on a highway.

The other type of engine which is optional among certain units is the EcoBoost V6. This comes with a 3.5-liter engine that produces 355 of horsepower through twin turbo chargers and gasoline direct injection.

Exterior

When it comes to the exterior, you will definitely fall for the Ford Flex. It is somehow retro-inspired that makes it very much distinctive and unique. As a matter of fact, you can go try for yourself and you will see nothing like it on the road. The new model Titanium has even furthered this feature.

The exterior will somehow give you the feeling that it is familiar but new all at the same time. And of course, there are certified Ford trademarks for this baby. You will see parallel groves running down its sides that give it the retro feeling. Then this works with the aluminum-patched rear and hatched. You can even work with contrasting roof paint. The boxy, upright sides as well as the bold front are pure Ford trademark.

Interior

If you want to check out the interior, here are some of the things that you will find.

For one, you must know first that the interior of this model is very good. The quality is top-notch. And the materials used in making it are not only soft to the touch; they also provide an attractive and upscale design that gives the interior a classy but modern look. This model also has a spacious layout and a versatile and comfortable cabin which has a seven-seating capacity.

You will also love the Sync system which was specially engineered by Microsoft. It gives this model a high-technology or advanced quality. You will definitely enjoy the voice recognition software that you can use for your iPods and cellphones.

Be sure to check out the other options like Vista Moonroof, Sirius Travel Link and the rear-console refrigerator which are getting rave reviews.

Safety

When it comes to safety, this model is definitely the leader among its contemporaries. This model comes with the Ford standard antilock disc brakes. Not only that, you will also surely love its stability and traction control. There are also front side airbags as well as side curtain airbags in cases of emergency. And lastly, the Flex also comes with preventive rear-parking sensors.

The competition

The Toyota 4Runner (MSRP $31,115; 17 city/ 23 hwy) and the Honda Pilot (MSRP $31,980; 17 city/ 23 hwy) costs slightly higher than the Flex; but are nearly even when it comes to fuel economy. While the Flex seats 7 people comfortably, the Pilot, when maximized, can seat up to eight.

Overall Rating
78 out of 100

What others say:

“The Flex combines SUV-like versatility with car-like driving dynamics. The 3.5-liter V6 and six-speed automatic get 17 mpg overall and isn’t the most refined powertrain.”Consumer Reports

“Looking for a styling statement in your next family vehicle? Nothing on the road looks like the 2011 Ford Flex.”The Car Connection

“The 2011 Ford Flex lineup expands further with the addition of a new top-end trim level. This boxy 4-door wagon shares elements of its basic design with the Ford Edge.”Consumer Guide

“The Flex’s ability to maneuver through tight turns is matched only by its well-mannered ride and hushed interior. Despite its boxy SUV appearance, the Flex is surprisingly nimble, providing quick turn-in response with little sway or body roll.”KBB

Specifications

General Info

Vehicle Type: Wagon	Base Price: $ 29,355.00
Fuel Tank Capacity: 18.6 gallons	Miles Per Gallon: 17 city / 24 hwy

Dimensions

Length: 201.8 in. (513 cm)	Width: 75.9 in. (193 cm)
Height: 68 in. (173 cm)	Weight: 4471 lbs (2028 kg)
Wheel Base: 117.9 in. (299 cm)	Ground Clearance: NA
Luggage Capacity: Max. Cargo Vol. 83.2 cu ft	Maximum Seating: 7

Performance

Engine: 3.5L Duratec® V6	Compression Ratio: 10.3:1
Horsepower: 262 hp	Max RPM: 6250 rpm
Torque: 248 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm	Transmission: 6-speed automatic
0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds	1/4 Mile: NA

Available Trims & Engine

Option:SEL 3.5L Duratec® V6	MSRP: $3,985; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Limited 3.5L Duratec® V6	MSRP: $35,650; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy
Option:Titanium 3.5L Duratec® V6	MSRP: $38,145; MPG: 17 city / 24 hwy