2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ES

Information Specification Image Review 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport ES
At first glance, the naming of the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport seems to make sense. This compact SUV looks the part of an automotive athlete with its aggressive, Lancer Evolution-inspired front-end styling and semi-crouching stance. But sadly, there's really not enough under the buff body to justify the "Sport" portion of this model's moniker.

On paper the Outlander Sport looks promising, as it is loosely based on the Mitsubishi Outlander, a crossover SUV we've praised in the past for its agile handling. Baby brother Sport is 14 inches shorter, 2 inches lower and as much as 700 pounds lighter, all favorable factors that should add up to increased agility and performance. But in the real world we've discovered that these would-be advantages yield nothing particularly beneficial.
The Sport's lighter weight would be an advantage if it could be had with the bigger Outlander's more powerful engine choices, but the Sport only comes with the 148-horsepower inline-4 borrowed from the Lancer sedan. And when it's coupled to the CVT, the end result is lackluster acceleration. The Sport's handling will likely be fine for most folks, but those looking for performance that matches the Sport's name and looks will wish for less body roll and more grip during spirited cornering.

If you forget about the "Sport" part, this Mitsubishi is pretty agreeable. It provides a smooth, quiet freeway ride and comes with a fair number of features for relatively short money. But pitted against other compact crossovers, the Outlander Sport doesn't really make the cut. Other similarly sized runabouts, such as the Kia Sportage, Mini Cooper Countryman and Nissan Juke are more enjoyable to drive thanks to superior performance and handling. And if you'll be frequently hauling luggage or cargo, more mainstream models like the Chevrolet Equinox, Honda CR-V and even the regular Outlander are going to be more practical and useful overall.

 The Outlander Sport is offered in ES or SE trims with front-wheel drive or four-wheel drive (SE only) configurations. The standard engine is a 148-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either a 5-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Standard features on the Outlander Sport include seven-airbags, vehicle stability control, anti-lock brakes with electronic brake-force distribution, brake assist, hill start assist, heated mirrors, body-colored door handles, LED tail lamps, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitor. A chrome tailpipe finisher, Xenon headlights, illuminated vanity mirrors, heated front seats, automatic climate control and passive entry make the SE trim unique.

 Despite its name, the 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport offers little in the way of sportiness. Acceleration is passable, but often you'll find yourself wishing for more power when entering highways and passing. Handling is similarly disappointing for driving enthusiasts, with noticeable body roll that does little to instill driver confidence or fun. To its credit, the Sport does have a smooth and quiet ride, making it an acceptable companion on long road trips.
source:edmunds.com,autos.aol.com

2012 Nissan Leaf

Information Specification Image Review 2012 Nissan Leaf
Introduced just last year, the Nissan Leaf was the first full-electric vehicle to be marketed to mainstream American buyers. In many ways, it succeeds in being just as accessible as its manufacturer intends. The Leaf has a spacious cabin, with a tall, airy greenhouse that comfortably seats four full-size adults and provides excellent visibility. On the road, the car boasts peppy acceleration and, were it not for the lack of engine noise, you'd probably be convinced you're driving one of any number of gas-powered models. And though the Leaf's cargo capacity is on the small side, this Nissan has hatchback utility in its favor.

Once you factor in the $7,500 federal tax credit (residents of certain states are eligible for additional credits as well), the 2012 Nissan Leaf's pricing is quite affordable. A 220-volt home-charging station that costs $2,200 is a must-have, but the financial blow is softened by a tax rebate as well. Charging the Leaf costs less than paying for gas, though the picture may be less favorable in states with tiered electricity rates, depending on your usage.

At the end of the day, however, electric cars come with certain compromises. The EPA rates the Leaf's range at just 73 miles, a number we essentially verified during a six-month test of the Leaf. This isn't a problem on shorter commutes, but it presents challenges on lengthier trips, since the number of charging stations is currently quite limited. And charging takes quite a bit longer than the minute or two you'd spend filling a gas tank; plan on this process taking about 30 minutes at a quick-charge commercial station and 4-8 hours with the home charger. Of course, those are both rare, so for the moment you're likely looking at a recharge time of twice that or more with a standard electric outlet.

Officially rated at 99 mpge (miles per gallon equivalent), the city rating is an incredible 106 mpg while the highway rating is 92. That may not sound significant, but when every mile counts, it is. Crawling along in gridlock the next day it was reassuring to see the mileage range number on the dash sit idle mile after mile. But on the highway the digits would often count down like the dying seconds on a scoreboard, a rather frightening distraction as I attempted to summon Jedi-like powers to slow the countdown to what I foresaw as my inevitable destination – stranded on the side of the road.

In fact, I became so paranoid of the quickly depleting energy supply that I switched off the climate control in order to conserve as much battery life as possible. As silly as that may sound, within the Leaf’s Carwings telematics system there’s a screen that will tell you how much range you can gain by doing just that. It’s not insignificant either, totaling three whole miles on this journey. A mild inconvenience on an ideal day, my worry of reaching home was so severe I did so even with the mercury sitting at the freezing point.

Nearing my house and off the highway the range reading ceased its recessionary stock market-like fall at 17 miles and my emotions switched from worry to a cocksure attitude as I decided to drop in to the grocery store – warming my now frozen toes in the process.

For 2012, Nissan added the optional winter package as standard equipment on all Leafs, including electric warming for the battery pack, heated front and rear seats, and even a heated steering wheel. For the higher-level SL model, it added a DC quick-charging port as standard equipment (previously optional), which allows an 80-percent battery recharge in 30 minutes at rare public DC charging stations.

Along with the upgrades came higher prices, unfortunately. The base 2012 Nissan Leaf starts at $35,200, and the Leaf SL model at $37,250. Most owners are likely to qualify for a $7,500 Federal income-tax credit for purchase of an electric car, though Nissan also offers a $349 monthly lease on the car that wraps the tax credit into the price. Additional regional and corporate incentives may be available as well.

You could view the 2012 Nissan Leaf as the first vehicle for a new century of electric cars. It's on the market now, it's fully a "real car" with modern features and conveniences, and it gets high safety ratings from the usual agencies. It offers an excellent demonstration why plug-in cars have a bright future--though it will take decades for plug-in cars to become a noticeable fraction of the 1 billion vehicles on the planet, and we'll not likely see the "end of gasoline" in any of our lifetimes.
source:edmunds.com,thecarconnection.com,autoguide.com

2012 Nissan Maxima

Information specification Image Review 2012 Nissan Maxima
In these economic times, showing up to work in a new car with a fancy luxury badge may raise some eyebrows around the water cooler. Perception counts for a lot, so finding a new car that straddles the tricky divide between practical family cars and upscale luxury models would seem to be a good way to enjoy your success without flaunting it. The 2012 Nissan Maxima is one way to do so.
To put it simply, Nissan's flagship sedan offers much of the same performance, luxury and features as the company's upscale Infiniti brand, but with a less flashy badge and better value. Topping the Maxima's list of strong points is a very likable driving experience. The 290-horsepower V6 gives the Maxima enough acceleration to leave many of its competitors in the dust, while a well-tuned suspension manages to deliver a nice balance between athletic handling and a plush ride. An attractive passenger cabin featuring top-quality materials and the availability of many luxury features is another plus. In a way, the Maxima is an analog clock and some fancier gauges away from being an Infiniti.
However, the Maxima isn't the only stealthy luxury model. The Chrysler 300, Hyundai Genesis and Volkswagen CC are all essentially luxury cars without a traditional luxury badge. The Chrysler and Hyundai, in particular, offer significantly more interior room than the Maxima.
Of course, if you're actually looking for the cachet that comes along with a luxury brand, the Maxima obviously can't deliver. Even though you won't be getting as much equipment for your money, the Audi A4, BMW 3 Series, Infiniti G Sedan, Mercedes-Benz C-Class and Volvo S60 are all in the same pricing ballpark. They also offer a greater degree of driving and interior refinement.
That makes the 2012 Nissan Maxima an intriguing alternative for two types of luxury cars. If you're OK with that Nissan badge, or are even seeking out something less ostentatious, it's definitely worth a close look.

The Maxima gets a number of minor changes inside and out for 2012, but unless you're a serious Maxima geek you'd have to line the 2011 and 2012 models up side by side to see the differences. A new grille is slightly different in appearance, while the taillamp design has been tweaked and there's a new line of 18- and 19-inch alloy wheel designs. Inside, audio and HVAC knobs are new, gauge illumination is now white, and new Dark Piano and Atlantic Cherry trims have been added. The Maxima's look isn't new otherwise, but it remains one of the freshest-looking sedans in this class. It's still head-turning, with curvy sheetmetal, an aggressive front-end design, and an overall stance that makes it look like it could have rear-wheel drive. The cockpit-style instrument panel, in fact, could be right at home in a product from Infiniti.

Smooth, quick acceleration is something the 2012 Nissan Maxima does extraordinarily well. The 290-horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 engine has a relaxed demeanor in ordinary driving and works well with the automatic continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT). The CVT also includes a manual sport mode and available steering-wheel paddle shifters to access a series of simulated gear ratios for high-performance driving (there's no manual available), and the letdown is that this setup simply doesn't offer the same level of control as conventional transmissions.

 Under the hood, we find the same 3.5-liter V6 petrol unit that allows the driver to play with 294 hp and a peak torque of 261 lb-ft (353 Nm).

In addition to that, you can also opt for a new Limited Edition package (for the 3.5 S model), which brings smoked appearance headlights, High Intensity Discharge (HID) Xenon headlights, a compass in the rear view mirror, 18-inch aluminum-alloy Dark Hyper Silver finish wheels, a rear spoiler, dark satin chrome front grille, fog lights, outside mirrors with integrated turn signals and metallic trimming.
source:autoevolution.com,thecarconnection.com,edmunds.com

2012 Suzuki Kizashi

Information Specification Image Review 2012 Suzuki Kizashi
Success is measured in a variety of ways. For automobiles, success is generally determined by sales numbers, but in the case of the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi this metric proves elusive. While the Kizashi is one of the better choices among midsize sedans, Suzuki's limited dealer network makes it more of a sleeper success in the segment.
It's likely that if Suzuki's presence and marketing budget were as large as its competition, shoppers would take notice of the 2012 Kizashi. With distinct European styling and a refined interior that exceeds expectations, it's a shame more people either don't know about it or don't have convenient access to one. Furthermore, the Kizashi provides as much comfort as it does excitement behind the wheel.
Comparing the Kizashi to more readily available midsize sedans reveals that it's slightly down on rear legroom, but by no means cramped. And while the Suzuki's 2.4-liter engine provides ample motivation, there's no turbo or V6 option. Nor is there a hybrid alternative.
But even with these minor drawbacks, the 2012 Suzuki Kizashi is still worthy of consideration among tough competition. We rank the Hyundai Sonata and related Kia Optima on top of the family sedan segment, with the Ford Fusion, Honda Accord, Nissan Altima and Toyota Camry remaining great choices as well. But if you happen to have a Suzuki dealer nearby, we highly recommend checking out the 2012 Kizashi, as it's really a success waiting to be noticed.

 Available in front-wheel drive with a six-speed manual or CVT transmission, or all-wheel drive with CVT, the Kizashi offers exceptional value in S, SE, Sport GTS, and Sport SLS trims. The Kizashi is equipped with a 185-hp 2.4 liter four-cylinder engine with the six-speed manual or a 180-hp version with the CVT. Standard features include sport bucket seats, projector headlamps, keyless â??Smartpassâ? pushbutton start system, automatic dual-zone climate control, and steering wheel audio controls. Safety features include a class exclusive eight airbags, stability control, anti-lock brakes, and tire pressure monitoring system. As well, the Kizashi already meets 2014 NHTSA crash standards. Optional features include a Rockford-Fosgate audio system, leather interior, heated power seats and Bluetooth hands-free calling.

Under the Hood

The Kizashi is powered by a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which teams with a six-speed manual or a continuously variable automatic transmission. All-wheel-drive models come only with the CVT. Mechanical features include:

• 180-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder (185 hp with manual transmission)
• Front- or all-wheel drive
• Fully independent suspension
• Available lowered sport suspension

Safety

Standard safety features include:

• Antilock brakes
• Electronic stability system
• Side-impact airbags for both rows of seats
• Side curtain airbags for both rows of seats

source:cars.com,autos.aol.com,edmunds.com

2013 Porsche Boxster S

Information Specification Image Review 2013 Porsche Boxster S
These illustrations provide the clearest picture yet of the totally updated 2013 Porsche Boxster S, which is set to go on sale this spring. As we’ve seen in previous spy photos, the exterior is sharper than before, with stronger lines and fewer curves. The side air intakes are larger and more pronounced on this new model.

Porsche has moved the side mirrors from the A-pillars to the doors, and added a crease to the rear fenders. The front air intakes are also bigger and more aggressive, as clearly shown in these illustrations of a bright red Boxster S.

The standard 2013 Boxster gets a 2.7-liter flat-6 to replace the previous 2.9-liter unit, with output rising from 255 to 261 horsepower. Output on the 3.4-liter six in the Boxster S is nudged slightly from 310 to 311 hp. Porsche says the standard Boxster will accelerate from 0-60 in 5.4 seconds, while the Boxster S will perform the same function in 4.7 seconds. The optional Sport Chrono package provides even better performance and driving dynamics.

A start-stop system and other tweaks also mean the engines will deliver up to 15 percent better fuel economy.

The 2013 Boxster gets new sheet metal, a new power-operated top that stows neatly behind the seats and a revised cockpit with more space for driver and passenger.
The chassis has been redesigned, and the car features lower weight, a longer wheelbase, wider track and larger wheels, as well as a new electromechanical power steering system.

This smaller and lighter 4-cylinder should reduce overall curb weight, and give the already dynamically brilliant Boxster even better handling. As an added bonus, the 4-cylinder is also likely to drink less fuel than the outgoing sixes. A 2011 Boxster in standard trim currently offers EPA figures of 19 mpg city/27 mpg highway. Porsche will also upgrade the 2-seat cockpit with higher quality materials.

Boxster production is slated to move to Austria, when Magna Steyr takes over the contract to build the mid-engine roadster from the Finnish firm Valmet. Expect the 2013 Porsche Boxster to make its official debut at the 2012 Geneva Auto Show. source:roadandtrack.com,insideline.com

2013 Cadillac ATS

Information Specification Image Review 2013 Cadillac ATS
It's the eve of the Detroit Auto Show, and Cadillac officially kicked things off tonight by unveiling its 2013 ATS sedan at Detroit's College for Creative Studies. Why CCS? Many of the college's graduates go on to work in areas of automotive design, and as Ed Welburn, General Motors' Vice President of Global Design, told us, over 170 CCS graduates currently work within the larger GM design team, 20 of which directly worked on the ATS project. After getting our first impressions of the ATS in the flesh, we must indeed applaud those designers.

The ATS rides on an all-new rear-wheel-drive platform, and the end result is car that's about eight inches shorter in length than the larger CTS sedan. Cadillac's Art & Science design language has been updated for the smaller sedan, with angular lines and flat surfaces found throughout the four-door's styling. Sure, Cadillac is quite proud of the way the ATS looks, but what's most important about this car is its performance. After all, the ATS will go head-to-head with the likes of the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, so on the road, it has to be good.

The new ATS sports Cadillac's latest Arts & Science styling with sharp creases and flowing lines. The headlights are jewel-like, while the taillight feature light pipes that complement the integrated LED rear spoiler. Dual chrome exhaust tips peek out from below the bumper, with the center-mounted backup light mounted between them.

Inside, Cadillac will offer real wood, aluminum, or carbon-fiber trim that will complement leather seats and a soft-touch dashboard. The available CUE infotainment system features a capacitive touch-sensitive center stack with an 8-inch touch screen up top. All the touch-sensitive buttons feature haptic feedback, so you know when you've touched a button, and a 5.7-inch color LCD resides inside the gauge cluster.

With that out of the way, we can get back to the ATS. Like its bigger brother, the ATS will ride on a new rear-wheel-drive platform dubbed Alpha. (The current CTS uses Sigma bones.) We expect that the ATS will offer a mix of four-cylinder and V-6 engines, some turbocharged, and manual transmissions should be available across the board. All-wheel drive will be on the order sheet, too. We’re most excited, naturally, for the ATS-V, which we’ve heard should pack a twin-turbocharged V-6 thumping out around 380 hp.

Some time after the ATS arrives, we expect Cadillac to introduce an ATS-based convertible with a cloth roof (rather than a folding hardtop), different styling, and a new name. It’s meant to fit between the ATS and the larger, more-expensive CTS, much in the way the Audi A5 cabrio slots between the A4 on which it’s based and the A6.

It’s possible that the Cadillac ATS will debut as early as this August at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance—a Detroit debut in January makes some sense, too—and General Motors says that the car will go on sale in the summer of 2012.source:autoblog.com,thecarconnection.com,caranddriver.com