by car review editor on February 23, 2012
The 2012 Mazda Mazda6 Review
Summary Review by Tess: A Pain at the Pump
The entry level Mazda6 is one of the roomiest and most visually appealing family-sized sedans on the road at a price that most families can afford. Sleek, aerodynamic lines and a choice of engines make the Mazda6 a versatile choice, but poor fuel economy will reduce its appeal for budget-minded buyers and for those looking for a green-friendly vehicle in this automotive segment.
Under the hood
The 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder base engine is standard on the i Sport and i Touring trim levels and delivers 170 horses and 167 pound-feet of torque, while the s Touring series is powered by a 3.7-liter V-6 engine with 272 horsepower and 269 pound-feet of torque. Depending on the trim level, buyers can choose between a six-speed manual, five-speed shiftable automatic, and an advanced six-speed automatic transmission. All trim levels are available with Read More…
by car review editor on February 22, 2012
The 2012 Honda Insight Review
Summary Review by Tess: Hybrid Frugality, but a Bumpy Ride
One of the most fuel efficient vehicles on the road, the 2012 Honda Insight Hatchback is a surprisingly affordable hybrid vehicle with aerodynamically designed exterior lines and four-door convenience. Available in three trim levels, the Honda Insight Hatchback lacks some of the luxury features of its competitors in this automotive class and fails to deliver the rear-seat room taller passengers require for comfort. For budget-minded families with small children, however, the Honda Insight is a practical and low-cost choice in the entry-level hybrid field.
Under the hood
The 2012 Honda Insight Hatchback features a 1.3-liter four-cylinder engine that, on its own, produces 88 horsepower and 88 pound-feet of torque. It is mated with an electric motor powered by nickel-metal hydride batteries that adds 13 horsepower and 58 pound-feet of torque. Due to varying power peaks, the maximum output comes out to 98 horsepower and 123 lb-ft of torque. Front wheel drive is standard, and the Honda Insight features a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission. The Insight offers exceptional fuel economy at 41 miles to the gallon in the city and 44 on the highway. Safety Read More…
by car review editor on February 21, 2012
The 2012 Hyundai Accent Sedan Review
Full Review by Andy: Hyundai’s Fairy Tale
Once upon a time – meaning last year – the general public looked upon the Hyundai Accent with displeasure, and often, pity. The Accent competed for the dubious honor as the cheapest econobox in America, suitable only for the few confused souls who preferred new Spartan torture chambers over used yet practical vehicles. For 2012, the Accent has been born anew. It runs about three grand shy of being America’s most inexpensive vehicle, and every penny is worth it.
What Does It Look Like?
Last year’s plain style has given way to a swoopy, chiseled exterior in line with the Sonata and Elantra. Like its corporate siblings, the Hyundai’s side design lines rise from the aggressive, feline front fascia and glide up to a high beltline and arch over the rear haunches. Yet, unlike the Veloster or the funk boxes offered by its Asian competitors, the petite Accent has a voluptuous design that manages to look stylish but not immature. Read More…
by car review editor on February 20, 2012
The 2012 Nissan Pathfinder Review
Summary Review by Tess: Too Much of a Good Thing
Larger and heavier than most of its competitors in the midsize SUV marketplace, the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder is more suited to the challenges of off-road exploration than the sedate streets of the urban landscape. Available in five trim levels, the Pathfinder offers a comfortable interior for seven passengers and handles well for a vehicle of this size, but mediocre gas mileage and oversized profile make this a less than practical choice for most buyers. This is especially true with the addition of the V-8 engine, which further depresses the fuel economy while adding considerably to the heft of this already bulky vehicle.
Under the hood
Buyers can choose between a 4.0-liter V-6 and 5.6-liter V-8 engine for the 2012 Nissan Pathfinder. The V-6 produces a respectable 266 horsepower and 288 pound-feet of torque and is available in rear-wheel drive or part-time 4WD configurations. The V-8 pumps out 310 horses and 380 pound-feet of torque in rear-wheel drive or full-time four-wheel drive selections. A five-speed shiftable automatic is the only available transmission choice for Nissan Pathfinder buyers. Fuel economy is so-so for the V-6 at 15 miles to the gallon in the city and 22 on the highway, but the V-8 manages Read More…
by car review editor on February 19, 2012
The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible Review
Summary Review by Tess: A High Performance Classic
In a market segment primarily dominated by European manufacturers, the 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport Convertible provides a welcome respite from the usual fare with its strong, aggressive lines and boldly American flair. With a massive 6.2-liter V-8 engine and enhanced stabilizers and dampers, the Corvette Grand Sport proves that its beauty is more than skin deep and justifies its reputation as a classic of the American road. However, unremarkable steering and dated interior design may limit its appeal for true luxury car enthusiasts.
Under the hood
The 2012 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport derives its power from its 6.2-liter V-8 engine and produces 430 horsepower and 424 pound-feet of torque, letting it accelerate from 0 to 60 in 4.4 seconds, a world-class time in this segment. The engine is paired with rear-wheel drive and the buyer’s choice of a six-speed manual or six-speed shiftable automatic transmission. Fuel economy is surprisingly good at 16 miles to the gallon on the city streets and 26 miles per gallon when driving on the open road. Safety Read More…
