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2011 Honda Fit: More features, plus standard stability control

Addydas21 — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 07:30:00 +0000

Honda has announced new features for the 2011 Fit including standard stability control across all trim lines. Before this update, ESC was only available in the Sport version. In our tests, we found the tail of the Fit wagged a bit without stability control. Federal mandates will make ESC standard on all vehicles for the 2012 model year. Other updates for the 2011 Fit include cruise control, remote entry, and USB audio on base models. The Fit Sport and Sport with Navigation adds carpeted floor mats.

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Addydas21 — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 07:30:00 +0000

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Chevrolet Volt sticker doesn’t shock

pete — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 11:38:05 +0000

The EPA has just released the official fuel economy estimates for the semi-electric Chevrolet Volt and its energy equivalent in terms of electricity use. The official Volt window sticker lists 93 MPGe (MPG equivalent) when operating on just electricity and 37 mpg on all gasoline. To create this means of comparison, the agency uses a formula that equates 33.7 kWh to one gallon of fuel in terms of energy density. This announcement follows the release of the all-electric Nissan Leaf window sticker . The Volt sticker also contains a sample table with different trip length with energy cost per mile. As we said about the Toyota Prius Plug-In , fuel consumption for plug-in hybrids is a function of the trip length. It’s nice to see that despite the complexity of the information on the sticker, there is no sticker shock in terms of some unrealistic MPGe number, and on the face of it, the figures seem reasonable

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Just in: 2011 Audi A4 Quattro sedan – More lux, fewer bucks

Uzair — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 08:30:00 +0000

When the crew at the Consumer Reports Auto Test Center planned the 2010-11 test program, the Audi A4 wasn’t on the list. We had tested an A4 2.0T back in June 2009, when it had just been redesigned. But then Audi went ahead and dropped a new eight-speed automatic transmission in the car, rendering the old test outdated. So out we went, buying a 2011 A4 2.0 TFSI Premium all-wheel-drive sedan to see if the new transmission change affected fuel economy and performance. In our 2009 test we found the A4 was a significant improvement over the previous-generation car. We liked the more agile handling, responsive four-cylinder turbocharged engine, the excellent braking, and the nicely appointed interior. On the downside, we found the rear seat was still pretty cramped–although better than in the previous generation car–and that the Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) made the controls needlessly complex

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Pricing: 2012 Mazda5—starts at $19,990

Uzair — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:01:18 +0000

Priced a few hundred above the outgoing model, the redesigned 2012 Mazda5 will start at $19,990, including destination charges. The new 5 will be offered in three trims—Sport, Touring, and Grand Touring. All versions of the small minivan will be powered by a 157-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. A six-speed manual transmission is available on the Sport version and a five-speed automatic is standard on the Touring and Grand Touring. (See the Mazda5 in our New Car Preview .) The Sport includes 16-inch alloy wheels, power mirrors and power windows and door locks, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel (with audio and cruise controls), and keyless remote. The Touring version starts at $21,990 and includes 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, Bluetooth, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, and rear liftgate spoiler. The Touring model also has an available moonroof and audio package with six-CD changer and satellite radio, which adds $1,150.

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Pricing: 2012 Mazda5—starts at $19,990

pete — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 14:01:18 +0000

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Best new-car deals for Thanksgiving weekend

pete — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:51:45 +0000

While the malls will likely be overflowing with door-busting shoppers this long Thanksgiving weekend, it can also be a great time for visiting your local car dealer. In analyzing current nationwide incentives, we've found some enticing discounts on good models. Locally, you may find additional sales deals being advertised. And being near the end of the month, dealers may be a bit more willing to negotiate to meet their quotas. The models listed below are just a few of our Best New Car Deals , meaning there are notable discounts on models that meet Consumer Reports’ criteria to be recommended. These vehicles scored well in our testing, had average or better reliability in our subscriber survey, and performed well in government or insurance-industry safety tests, if evaluated. For our Thanksgiving deals watch, we have focused on 2011 models

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Uzair — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 10:51:45 +0000

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NHTSA crash tests pickup trucks under the new, more rigorous ratings system

Addydas21 — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 13:49:56 +0000

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has recently tested pickup trucks and several other models under the new 5-Star Safety Ratings system to assess crash worthiness. The results are mixed, proving the more stringent methods have ended the days of easy 5-Star ratings. The latest and third round of tests include 2011 versions of the Chevrolet Silverado , Dodge Ram , GMC Sierra , and Toyota Tacoma . The Silverado and similar Sierra models score the best out of the group with an overall vehicle score of four stars and with front and rollover crash tests earning four stars and five stars for the side crash rating. The Toyota Tacoma also received four stars overall, but a three for the front crash rating. The Doge Ram scored three stars overall rating only a two for frontal crash performance. Other models in this batch include the GMC Yukon Hybrid , Honda CR-Z , Kia Soul , Mazda3 , and the latest Hyundai Sonata , which had mid-year updates

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Pricing: 2011 Kia Optima–Starts at $18,995

Uzair — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 16:03:43 +0000

Kia has announced pricing for the all new Optima, which will start at just under $19,000. The Optima is available in three trims, LX, EX, and SX. The LX six-speed manual transmission will start at $18,995 and will include basic power amenities, stereo with satellite radio and MP3 playback, and Bluetooth connectivity with steering wheel controls. The LX automatic starts at $20,495 and adds alloy wheels, cruise control and an Eco system to increase fuel efficiency. The EX trim starts at $22,495 and adds 17-inch wheels, fog lamps, leather seats, power driver seat, and push-button start. The EX turbo is priced at $24,495 and it adds a 274 hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine estimated to deliver 34 mpg. Starting at $25,995, the top-of-the-line SX also has the 2.0-liter turbo, and it also boasts 18-inch wheels, sport-tuned transmission, HID headlamps, LED tail lights, steering wheel paddle shifters, and black leather seat trim.

Pricing: 2011 Kia Optima–Starts at $18,995

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Just In: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

pete — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 07:00:00 +0000

One of the most anticipated debuts this year is Chevrolet’s fully redesigned small sedan, the Cruze. This all-new, global sedan ends the Chevy Cobalt’s reign of mediocrity. (The fun Cobalt SS sports version was a notable exception.) We bought two Cruzes to test here at the track. One is an LS version with the 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic. Option availability is a bit odd for the LS. While you can get a USB port and Bluetooth, you can’t get cruise control or power mirrors, basic features we miss. (Seriously, no cruise for the Cruze?) Our LS stickered at $18,375

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Just In: 2011 Chevrolet Cruze

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Model-year makeover: 2011 Dodge Avenger – Updated, more powerful

pete — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 11:58:12 +0000

Chrysler has unveiled a completely overhauled Dodge Avenger inside and out, as the company has done with the 200, formerly known as the Sebring. The exterior of the Avenger features a new, lower fascia and grille. It has a more aggressive stance, with a lower ride height and wider tires. Inside, there is a new instrument panel, steering wheel, and upgraded seats with more cushion material. Other changes include sound-deadening treatments integrated throughout the vehicle. In our tests of the previous Avenger , we noted that suspension noise was pronounced.

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Pricing: 2011 Porsche Cayenne Hybrid

pete — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 10:38:39 +0000

The Porsche Cayenne hybrid, the company’s first, is heading to dealerships in November with a starting price of $67,700—just $4,000 above the base Cayenne six-cylinder. The Cayenne S hybrid features a 3.0-liter supercharged V6 and electric motor with a combined output of 380 hp. The hybrid system has a 288-volt nickel-metal-hydride battery located under the luggage compartment. Like some hybrids, the Cayenne can drive on electric power alone at speeds up to 37 mph, but it will also be capable of switching off the gasoline engine once it has reached cruising speeds and then sail on electric power alone for up to one mile. EPA fuel economy estimates are 21 mpg city, 25 mpg highway. According to Porsche, acceleration from 0-60 mph is 6.1 seconds and the hybrid can reach a top speed of 150 mph. We are currently testing the Porsche Cayenne V6 –stay tuned for updates

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Test complete video: 2011 Infiniti M37

Addydas21 — Wed, 13 Oct 2010 10:15:00 +0000

The previous-generation Infiniti M was a top performer in our tests, and the recent redesign helps the M retain its high standing in the luxury sedan category. Our tested M37 sedan with a 3.7-liter V6 engine delivers excellent performance and is one of the quickest cars in its class. However, it seems less refined than the 3.5-liter V6 engine it replaced. Uncharacteristic for the class, the engine can sound raspy when revved high. Fuel economy has improved to 21 mpg overall even with a more powerful engine, but it requires premium fuel at the pump. Inside, the M37 is comfortable with large seats that have full power adjustments, but seat controls are difficult to access. The rear seat is comfortable for two adults, but the large center tunnel is an obstacle for a third, center seat passenger.

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Test complete video: 2011 Infiniti M37

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Demand For The New Buick Regal Exceeds Supply

Addydas21 — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 10:45:45 +0000

Buick’s Regal GS show car. Photo: © GM Corp. Here’s some good news for GM’s Buick division: it isn’t only the Chinese who are embracing your cars. Dealer orders for the turbocharged Buick Regal, which hasn’t even hit dealerships yet, are running at about double of the factory’s production capacity. GM hasn’t said if they’ll boost output from the Russelsheim, Germany, factory where the Regal is built alongside its Opel Insignia counterpart, but that’s the next likely step. The Regal is the smallest (and hence most affordable) car in Buick’s current lineup. Pricing for the 182 horsepower Ecotec version, which is currently available, ranges from $26,995 to $31,780. Pricing for the Ecotec turbo version, which boasts 220 horsepower and 258 ft lb of torque, ranges from $26,995 to $31,780. The highly anticipated Buick Regal GS, featuring more horsepower and enhanced handling, should arrive sometime in 2011. Buick is positioning the Regal as an entry level luxury sports sedan, and it’s up against the likes of the Audi A4, the Acura TSX and the Lexus IS250. I haven’t had the chance to drive one yet (hint, hint, GM), but I’m looking forward to it. I’ve driven several Buick Lacrosse models in the past year, and their build quality was impressive. If the handing on the Regal is as good as other sites claim, then Buick may have a legitimate contender on their hands. American buyers sure seem to think so. Source: 4 Wheels News Related Posts: Buick Targets A Younger Audience 2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon Priced The Same As CTS-V Coupe and Sedan GM Announces 2011 Camaro Convertible Pricing. Sort Of. Buick Regal GS Gets The Green Light New 2013 Lotus Esprit Stuns Paris Auto Show

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First Look video: 2011 Honda Odyssey

Addydas21 — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 12:05:39 +0000

We just took delivery of a 2011 Honda Odyssey EX-L for testing. It’s undergoing our normal routine of being checked-in and accumulating break-in miles before our full litany of tests. In the meantime, we were able to get some early driving impressions both at a scheduled press event and when Honda brought an Odyssey to our Auto Test Center.

Overall, the redesigned 2011 Honda Odyssey model feels a lot like the previous generation—which is a good thing, since the Odyssey has been one of our top-rated minivans for years. This model, however, does include a few notable changes. Based on the press vehicles we drove, the Odyssey remains one of the more enjoyable minivans to drive. The steering in the 2011, however, feels lighter and seems a little less precise at highway speeds. While we prefer the firmer steering of the previous Odyssey, Honda said that has been their top customer complaint with that model, thus the change. Overall, the minivan also seems quieter than the previous model, but there are other family haulers that are quieter.

The V6 engine has been tweaked to deliver four more horsepower and five percent more midrange torque. In driving, it felt smooth and responsive, with plenty of power for highway merging and passing. Most models have a five-speed automatic transmission, while the top-of-the-line Touring models get a six-speed auto. Honda says the six-speed provides a little better acceleration and lower noise.

Honda says that most versions will get 2 mpg better fuel economy (18/27 EPA city/highway mpg estimates), thanks in part to a lighter weight, a lower coefficient of drag, and the use of a variable cylinder-management system that lets the engine run on three, four, or six cylinders, depending on the conditions. The Touring models will get 4 mpg more (19/28 city/highway mpg), aided by lower rolling-resistance tires, an aero package, and an exclusive underbody treatment. Don’t look for all-wheel-drive – you’ll need to buy a Toyota Sienna or a SUV to get that.

The new Odyssey is a little wider (53 mm) and longer (20 mm), enabling more space inside—especially noticeable in the width of the second-row seat and the legroom in the third-row. Yet, the Odyssey doesn’t feel like a large vehicle while driving.

The Odyssey can carry up to eight people. There’s ample cargo room behind the third-row seat, and each third-row seat folds into the floor with an easy one-handed pull on a strap. Maximum cargo capacity is achieved by removing the second-row seats (the outboard seats weigh 47 pounds each, the center seat about 24 pounds). And Honda notes that by taking out the removable center consoles, it can carry 10-foot 2x4s or other long items with the rear hatch closed.

Among the standard safety features are electronic stability control, a brake override system, active head restraints, and five sets of LATCH anchors for securing child seats (three in the second row and two in the third row).

Base pricing will begin at $27,800 for the entry-level LX model and go up to $43,250 for the top-of-the-line Touring Elite. Destination charges will add another $780 to those figures. Watch for a full test of the 2011 Odyssey soon.

Also read:

First Drive: 2011 Honda Odyssey minivan

Why you should buy a 2010 Honda Odyssey now!

—Rik
Paul

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2011 Cadillac CTS-V Wagon Priced The Same As CTS-V Coupe and Sedan

pete — Thu, 07 Oct 2010 07:00:54 +0000

2011 Cadillac CTS-V Sport Wagon. Photo: © GM Corp. Good news for fans of the Cadillac CTS-V who need a little more luggage room: Cadillac is pricing the CTS-V Sport Wagon at $62,990, which is the same base price as the sedan and the coupe. Like it’s siblings, the wagon offers 556 horsepower and 551 foot pounds of torque, good enough to get the “family sized” CTS-V from zero to sixty in 4.0 seconds. If you were keeping score, that’s just 1/10 of a second slower than the CTS-V Coupe and Sedan, not too shabby for a station wagon offering 58 cubic feet of cargo space. Photo: © GM Corp Like the other CTS-V models, the Sport Wagon comes with heated leather seats, factory navigation system, HID headlamps, Bose audio, Magnetic Ride Control suspension, Brembo brakes and five years or 50,000 miles worth of scheduled maintenance as standard equipment. Surprisingly, Cadillac will give CTS-V Sport Wagon buyers the choice of a six speed automatic transmission or a six speed manual transmission, which deserves a round of applause. For some of us, the only proper gearbox for a car with sporting intentions (even a station wagon) is the kind you row yourself. As on the CTS-V Sedan and the CTS-V Coupe, you’ll want to check the option boxes for the $3,400 Recaro front seats, which are both heated and cooled, and you’ll also need the $300 suede steering wheel. Personally, I’d opt for the dark graphite wheels, but you can also get silver painted or polished aluminum wheels if that’s your thing. Cadillac still hasn’t told us when CTS-V Sport Wagons will begin hitting dealerships (or better yet, press fleets), but your friendly neighborhood Cadillac dealer is now taking orders for the CTS-V Sport Wagon. Cadillac is only building it in limited quantities for 2011, so if you want one in your garage, you’d best throw some money down soon. Related Posts: GM Announces 2011 Camaro Convertible Pricing. Sort Of. 2010 Cadillac CTS-V: RideLust Review New 2013 Lotus Esprit Stuns Paris Auto Show An ‘A’ For Effort, But A ‘D’ For Execution: Five Cars That Never Lived Up To Their Potential Fiat’s Back, Sells Out 500 Prima Edizione Specials

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Test complete video: 2011 BMW 535i sedan

Addydas21 — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 09:00:00 +0000

On the surface, the redesigned BMW 5 Series gets a lot right with a luxurious and well-finished interior, impressive drivetrain, comfortable seats, and a mostly serene ride. Unfortunately we found the total driving experience left something missing, as you can see in our road test video.

Our tested 535i’s 3.0-liter turbocharged engine is smooth, quiet, responsive, and relatively fuel efficient, returning 23 mpg overall. However, handling is disappointing. The new electric steering doesn’t transmit feedback well. Pronounced understeer and so-so grip reduced the car’s speed through our avoidance maneuver. And driving it simply isn’t as fun as you’d expect from a BMW.

The interior is opulently finished and the front seats are very comfortable and supportive. Unfortunately the controls are overly complicated, a modern BMW hallmark. While the iDrive controller has improved, we still find it distracting as it still requires the driver to go through various menus to perform simple tasks. Similarly, the electronic shifter is not intuitive to use. For instance, you need to push the shifter forward to engage reverse, which is counter to most other cars.

To sum up, the new BMW 5 Series is luxurious, quick, and cosseting, but the total driving experience is not what you would expect from a BMW.

See our full BMW 535i road test and Ratings.

—Liza
Barth

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Sneak Peek: 2011 Dodge Charger–New styling, equipment, power

Uzair — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 07:07:50 +0000

The Chrysler Group product line for 2011 is emerging from its chrysalis, and most models look promising. The latest metamorphosis to go public is the redesigned 2011 Dodge Charger. The muscle sedan has received an evolutionary update that gives it a lower, more aggressive profile, accented by side body coves and a heritage-inspired rear treatment.

Inside, the cockpit is notably updated with a new dash design that is fitted with the corporate-look instrument panel previewed on other models. Beyond appearance, attention has been paid to sound damping, by isolating powertrain, road, and wind noise. The quieter cabin lends the car a more refined feel.

That character carries over with powertrain and suspension. The base engine will be the new 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 that is promulgating across the Chrysler Group portfolio. It marks a significant improvement in power, manners, and sound quality over the retired 3.5-liter V6. A Hemi V8 remains the step-up choice, likewise with more power for 2011. Official figures have not been released.

The Charger will again be offered in rear-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. Based on a brief drive, the revised suspension improves the ride and helps the car to feel more mature.

For 2011, Charger struts with a variety of standard and optional technologies, such as keyless entry and push-button start, Garmin navigation system, rainy-day safety mode, adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, cross-path detection, and rearview camera.

It seems that the Charger is growing up, with improvements promised bumper to bumper. After it goes on sale late this year, we’ll purchase at least one to test.

Also read: 2011 Chrysler, Dodge, Fiat, and Jeep vehicles are updated and show promise.

—Jeff Bartlett

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NHTSA unveils vehicle ratings under updated star safety system

Uzair — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 12:10:51 +0000

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today unveiled the updated 5-Star Safety Ratings System to assess crash worthiness in new vehicles starting with the 2011 model year. Ratings for 33 out of 55 vehicles to be tested under the new system were announced and only two vehicles received the top overall rating—the BMW 5 Series and the later Hyundai Sonata (those built from July 2 onwards). Twenty-eight other vehicles earned four stars.

Previously, nearly all models were rated at five stars, making it difficult for consumers to determine the best performers. At a glance, most cars appeared comparable and excellent. Under the new, stricter ratings system, not all vehicles will earn the highest score even if they had been at that level before. One example is the Toyota Camry, which now has a three star rating. In the old test, the Camry had earned five stars in all crash tests and four stars in the rollover test. It is important to note that, despite the temptation to do so, 2011 results cannot be compared against those prior due to the changes in methodology and calculation.

The new program includes a more comprehensive evaluation in three areas—frontal crash, side crash, and rollover resistance. In addition, each model will receive an overall vehicle score, which combines the results of the three tests and compares them to the injury risk in other vehicles. The more stringent criteria also includes a new pole test and a smaller, female-sized crash dummy. The agency will also provide information on crash avoidance technologies.

NHTSA recommends consumers look at vehicles that have crash avoidance technologies such as forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and electronic stability control (ESC) as they provide safety benefits. Every vehicle will be mandated to have standard ESC by the 2012 model year.

For this first year of the new ratings, NHTSA will rate 24 passenger cars, 20 SUVs, two vans, and nine pickups. Below is a list and scores of the first 33 models evaluated.

Make and model	Overall frontal crash rating	Overall side crash rating	Rollover rating	Overall vehicle score
Audi A4 Avant wagon	4	5	5	4
Audi A4 FWD	4	5	5	4
Audi S4 FWD	4	5	5	4
BMW 5 Series 4 DR RWD	4	5	5	5
Cadillac Escalade 4WD	5	5	3	4
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid 4WD	5	5	3	4
Cadillac Escalade RWD	5	5	3	4
Cadillac Escalade Hybrid RWD	5	5	3	4
Chevrolet Malibu FWD	4	5	4	4
Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD	5	5	3	4
Chevrolet Tahoe RWD	5	5	3	4
Ford Fiesta	4	5	4	4
Ford Taurus AWD	4	5	4	4
Ford Taurus FWD	4	5	4	4
GMC Yukon RWD	5	5	3	4
GMC Yukon 4WD	5	5	3	4
Honda Pilot 4WD	4	5	4	4
Honda Pilot FWD	4	5	4	4
Hyundai Sonata (early release)	3	5	5	4
Hyundai Sonata (later release)	4	5	5	5
Infiniti M37	4	5	4	4
Infiniti M56	4	5	4	4
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4WD	4	5	4	4
Jeep Grand Cherokee RWD	4	5	3	4
Kia Sorento AWD	4	4	4	4
Kia Sorento FWD	4	4	4	4
Nissan Versa	3	2	4	2
Subaru Legacy	4	4	5	4
Subaru Outback	4	4	4	4
Toyota Camry	3	3	4	3
Toyota Camry HV	3	3	4	3
Toyota Sienna AWD	3	5	4	4
Toyota Sienna FWD	3	5	4	4

For a full list of the vehicles evaluated and further details on the program, see www.safercar.gov.

Learn about car safety in our special section.

—Liza
Barth

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