NADAguides Garage - RSS Feed

Mazda is giving consumers everything they are looking for in a four-door hatchback with the Mazdaspeed3, and at an affordable price too. This sporty new hatchback got a makeover from the first generation model, the MAZDA3, and still has the ample torque and speed to make an excitable 0-60 mph run in 5.6 seconds, thanks to a 2.3-liter turbocharged engine that pushes out 280 lb-ft of torque. How’s that for Zoom-Zoom?

At first glance, the Mazdaspeed3 is almost unrecognizable from its predecessor with a new hood scoop, grill, circular fog lamps and sleeker looking head and taillights producing a more fluid presentation and sportier look. “Aggressive” seems to be the styling that automakers are going for these days and Mazda is no different. The exterior has a youthful vigor, while the interior has something far more mature to offer.

Once inside, it's apparent how much focus Mazda put into the interior quality. Red and black cloth and leather seats are complemented by the leather steering wheel, electroluminescent gauges, aluminum foot pedals and a new dash layout that adds both convenience and comfort.  Everything is easily accessible on the dash, but the navigation systems controls are only accessible through the steering wheel, which takes a little getting used to. Tech upgrades include Sirius Satellite Radio, an improved Bose ten-speaker surround sound stereo system, six-CD changer, Bluetooth, keyless entry and start. Space is never an issue for the active driver as the hatchback design opens to about 17 cubic feet of space and by folding down the back seats it expands to 43 cubic feet, which is more than enough room to carry heavy cargo. With four doors, the Mazdaspeed3 allows for easy of entry into the backseats, which is ideal for those who regularly drive with more than two passengers.

The 2010 Mazdaspeed3 has made quite a few performance strides as well. While the power is the same as the first generation model, the improved suspension makes for a smoother ride over bumps. With a top speed of 155mph, there's no doubt that this car is fast, and its handing matches its speed. The 280 lb-ft of torque adds to the fun of driving, jumping off the line taking you on a wild ride if you're not prepared for all that torque.  A standard limited-slip differential worked wonders with handling, hugging every sharp curve you come across, and gas mileage isn't bad with 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highways.

Overall, the 2010 Mazdaspeed3 has all the right capabilities for spirited day-to-day transportation with a little fun thrown in, and considering its appealing design and overall affordability the Mazdaspeed3 is a smart buy for someone looking for a compact vehicle with speed and comfort. 

MSRP for the standard Mazdaspeed3 is $23,340 and price as tested is $25,840. For more information on the 2010 Mazdaspeed3, please visit www.NADAguides.com.

Considering it has been quite a while since we reviewed an SUV, we thought May would be a good time to look into what SUVs are out there and what’s competitive in today’s market. Our search for the right SUV, however, came with a twist. It was less about finding the newest SUV on the market and more about which SUV is having the largest impact with buyers. After looking over the sales numbers, the decision was obvious and the 2010 Chevrolet Equinox was the clear victor and worthy of our “Car of the Month” for May. The 2010 Chevy Equinox expands GM’s roster of competitive crossover SUV’s and after two generations it appears that GM’s finally got it right as the Equinox is perfect for the usual family tasks such as family hauling, cargo carrying and commuting without sacrificing on comfort, style and a quiet ride. This is good for GM because the automotive stalwart needs all the good news it can get.

First Drive
From our first impression it is obvious that the ride and handling characteristics have substantially evolved with the 2010 Equinox, as the overall feel is much more of a car than an SUV. The steering is light and the body lean is reduced from previous versions making this crossover worth the effort. It’s not sporty but it is on par with its competitors such as the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. What's missing from the cabin is noise. GM’s engineers clearly went out of their way to make the Equinox incredibly quiet. With acoustic glass surrounding the front passengers, spray-in-place sound deadening, triple door seals, and active noise cancellation through the standard subwoofer, the result is a quiet and comfortable cabin. Not just for the segment, for the market. It's not quite at the level that many luxury SUVs and CUVs often brag about, but it clearly shows that Chevrolet is onto something.

Under the Hood
GM was wise by equipping the Equinox with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, which is good for 182 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. Available on all but the LS is a 3.0-liter V6 that pushes out 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque. Both powerplants come with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive optional. In our opinion, opt for the V6 with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is a pleasant surprise, as GM says the 2.4-liter four-cylinder version will achieve 22/32 mpg (city/hwy) with front-wheel drive and 20/29 with all-wheel drive. The 3.0-liter V6 tops out at 18/25 mpg with front-wheel drive and 17/24 mpg with all-wheel drive, allowing the Equinox to shrug off today’s ever-increasing gas prices. If you want to compare apples to oranges, the four-cylinder 2009 Toyota RAV4 returns just 21/27 while making nine less horsepower.

The Interior and Exterior
The Equinox comes in four different trim levels, LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ, each of which features attractive and variably designed interiors offering plenty of space for passengers and cargo. The front seats are comfortable and supportive allowing drivers of all sizes to ride in comfort. The useful 60/40 divided MultiFlex rear seat carries over and offers nearly eight inches of travel, so tall passengers can ride in back or the driver can push the rear seat forward to carry more cargo. Its roomy cabin and reasonable pricing proves that buyers can still get some nice amenities they wouldn't expect in this category. A few amenities and options that we like for 2010 include: blue ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, a hard-drive audio system, an integrated rearview camera with rear park assist, power rear lift-gate, a navigation system with voice recognition, a 40-gigabyte hard-drive, premium speakers and a USB port. Families can also splurge on a rear DVD entertainment system that comes with a screen in the back of each front seat and a USB port. Safety equipment is unabated and includes dual threshold front airbags, curtain side airbags, front side airbags, a tire-pressure monitor, anti-lock brakes with brake assist, hill start assist, traction control, and GM's StabiliTrak electronic stability control, making this crossover SUV one of the safest in its category.

From the outside, the Equinox looks impressive and features Chevrolet’s now-signature two-tier grille with gold bowtie insignia. The headlights wrap around the front fender for modern appeal and the Equinox has pronounced fender flares and a wheels-at-the-corners stance, especially up front. The roof features wraparound side glass at the rear and tinted rear and rear side windows. All but the LS have luggage side rails; they're charcoal on LT models and they add chrome inserts on the LTZ and the 2LT with the Chrome Appearance Package. That package also adds chrome door handles and side mirrors. Seventeen-inch aluminum wheels are standard and 18- and 19-inch wheels are available to add more flair. In the rear, the Equinox features Chevy’s dual round taillights, a spinoff of the Malibu design and a roof spoiler. The tailgate opens upward, and a class-exclusive power, programmable tailgate is available. One cool feature that we learned about is that owners can program the tailgate to open to different heights so shorter drivers can reach it. Overall, the look of the 2010 Equinox is attractive and the LTZ's additional chrome trim adds a touch of class, especially with the chromed 19-inch wheels.

The Bottom Line
The 2010 Equinox has all the right improvements and amenities that make it stand out amongst its competitors, and with a starting price ranging from $22,016 up to $35,000 for a fully loaded LTZ, consumers are certain to find an Equinox that fits their lifestyle and budget.

For the complete video review, pricing and image gallery, please visit NADAguides.com, and click on the Chevrolet Equinox on the homepage.

On one hand it was our goal to be one of the first to post our official driving impression of the 2011 Ford Fiesta, but we decided to hold off to see what the other media folks out there were saying about the car. As expected, it really wasn’t a mixed bag. Most of the media expressed similar opinions, from how fun the car is to drive, to how technologically advanced it is. And we agree…all of which are great attributes.

On the other hand, we really held off to wait and see what Ford’s sales looked like for the first quarter of 2010…because the numbers won’t lie. Today, Ford announced its first quarter profit is at 2.1 billion. That’s correct, billion with a b! Once again, Ford is proving to the world they can build great cars that consumers want to buy. 

So, before we get to the Fiesta, let’s focus on the Fiesta’s parents - Ford Motor Company. The launch of Fiesta symbolizes the re-launch of Ford from both a design and performance standpoint. The bold new “compact flagship” firmly supplants Ford again as a uniquely different automaker. Ford is continuing to launch vehicles for today’s multi-dimensional buyer. From the Flex and the F-Series, to the Fusion Hybrid and the Fiesta, Ford’s simply bringing more appealing vehicles to market than their competition. Many of these accolades can be attributed to Alan Mulally and his youth-inspired staff that includes Mark Fields and Jim Farley. Whatever recipe Mulally’s cooking up over there it’s working.

Fun to drive?

Now, on to the Fiesta. Based on the initial data and more than 6,000 pre-orders, it is a safe bet that the all-new Fiesta will begin selling in comparison to the iPad when it first launched and may likely result in a slight delay for eager consumers. That is how strongly we feel about this vehicle and the impression it will have on consumers, but now let’s get down to the experience.

As we quickly ascended from sea level in San Francisco to the top of Skyline Blvd., we were puzzled at why Ford would have us test the car in such an intimidating locale. These weren’t foothills, they were aggressive mountain roads and pushing the 1.6-liter motor up these hills proved to be a challenge – or did it? Truth be told, the driving course was designed to showcase the fact that this little car that could—really could. We whipped the Fiesta through the back hills like we were driving a Mustang. The suspension proved to be tight and the 15-inch wheel package had no problem sticking to the pavement. Switching between cars so we could experience the manual and the automatic was equally enjoyable. On hilly roads, you expect to lose a little performance from the automatic transmission, but we were very impressed as both transmissions reacted similarly which is a rarity for this segment.

One standout feature was the lack of road noise. During our drive the weather was less than perfect for testing. In fact, the temperature hovered around 30 degrees and the rain made for slippery and wet roads. No problem; the Fiesta was engineered to suppress road noise and it was evident. Most entry-level vehicles are affordable, but their fit and finish can be sub-par. Don’t get me wrong, this compact segment is full of safe and functional cars. However, the Fiesta seemed to be in a category of its own. Leather wrapped seats hugged the driver and passengers, and the sync system was full of new features that included a Twitter application (OpenBeak), Pandora music and specialized news feeds by Stitcher.

After an enjoyable 60-mile journey through the mountains, we returned to the city to learn more about the technology features (please see my previous post title “It’s Fiesta Time”).

Our second day of testing landed us at Candlestick Park, home of the San Francisco 49ers. The parking lot was turned in to a full-out autocross course and again we couldn’t help but think Ford was trying to prove something here. Of course they were. As part of a timed autocross, we tested the 2011 Ford Fiesta against its competitive segment, which included the Honda Fit and Toyota Yaris. We would have liked to see a Mazda3 in the mix as it may have given the Fiesta a run for the money.

When you benchmark your vehicle against the competitive segment to showcase to the differences, it always shows us media folks that you have nothing to hide, and that’s exactly what Ford did. The Fiesta was tested in a straightaway “real driving” exercise where you have to swerve to avoid hitting a car (in our case this was avoiding a series of cones). After a pass through the course in the competition, we ran the Fiesta through its paces. Off the line, the Matrix felt pretty peppy, but when thrown in to the crash avoidance scenario, the suspension gave and you could feel the car was close to losing control. The Fiesta suspension was definitely tighter and we could see the differences. In defense of the Matrix, we didn’t check the mileage, but guess the car had some significant miles on it compared to the brand new suspension on the Fiesta.

The autocross was surprisingly long and meant to give the driver a real competitive driving experience; we danced through cones, made hard hairpin turns and sped around the wide open parking lot. Again, showcasing the suspension, and in the end the Fiesta clearly proved why it will make a quick ascension to the top of the segment.

Overall, the Ford Fiesta sets a new bar for this highly competitive segment. It proved to be an excitable car that is as sporty as it is economical. Getting an impressive MPG is one thing, but getting it while spinning the tires is another.

Posted by Mike Caudill, auto expert, NADAguides.com

When a company advertises their car as a luxury auto while aiming for a wider audience, it's is a tall order to be filled. It comes as a welcome surprise that the Suzuki Kizashi actually delivers on what it promises. Suzuki has been flying relatively low on the radar due to less than stellar sales; they need a car that will keep them in the competition. The Suzuki Kizashi SLS, a five-passenger mid-size luxury sedan, just might be that vehicle.

The look of the Kizashi is somewhat unique. From head-on the Kizashi looks like a VW with a bubbly front end and three-segmented grill. From the side and rear view Kizashi is luxurious and stylish with dual exhaust, 18-inch wheels, and an overall sleek appearance. This car isn’t going to turn any heads, but it still fits in nicely with the rest of the pack.

The interior of the Kizashi comes standard with keyless entry and ignition, 7-Speaker Audio System with USB port, power windows/locks, and optional navigation display. Some of the features are impressive for such a small price on the standard model, like the keyless ignition and remote audio controls. The SLS model comes standard with leather interior, heated power front seats, 10-speaker Rockford-Fosgate premium speaker system, integrated Bluetooth, and HomeLink®. The most impressive aspect of the Kizashi though is how much room there is inside, although you can technically seat five, there's sufficient room to fit two large adults in the driver and driver-rear passenger seat. It comes as a surprise that passengers are comfortable inside because it is a little shy of the average for a mid-size.

Performance and safety from Suzuki is top notch with standard front wheel drive, optional all wheel drive and dual front advanced and front and rear side and curtain airbags. The Kizashi also comes with a 2.4L 185 hp engine, standard ABS brakes, and a six speed manual transmission, or an optional continuous variable transmission (CVS). The Kizashi’s four-cylinder engine is in all models. The real differences in driving are coming from the transmission. The CVS transmission makes the car a little more sluggish but not to a fault, and with the CVS transmission the driver also gets F1 style paddle shifters on the steering wheel. Meanwhile the standard six-speed transmission is better, but feels loose. The handling on the car is great at average driving speeds too, which is what most buyers are in need of anyways.

Although the Kizashi SLS doesn’t offer all the amenities and style that come with a luxury midsize, they hit the right spots for a solid ride. Suzuki focused on giving a nice presentation with a smooth look both exterior and interior. They built a solid framework with unremarkable but solid driving capability, and a decent engine with enough appeal to a broader spectrum of consumers. Overall, the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi is a solid bargain. 

MSRP for the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi SLS is $24, 399.

For more information on the 2010 Suzuki Kizashi, please visit www.NADAguides.com.

The words "Hyundai" and "track" have never traditionally been a pair, but the Hyundai Genesis Coupe 2.0T Track has all but changed that, delivering a sporty 2-door cousin of the popular sedan that proves itself in both design and performance. Over the past few years, Hyundai has been making considerable noise by launching all-new products that are stylish, affordable and downright fun to drive. And to make matters worse for the imposing competition, Hyundai recently launched its 2011 Sonata and followed that up with an encore performance with the turbocharged version at the 2010 New York International Auto Show. 

Hyundai got it right with the exterior design of the coupe; its front end is slightly sloped and angular, producing a look that's sharp and reminiscent of luxury coupes way above its price range. Inside, the Coupe is an assortment of refined parts and consistent Hyundai design, mixing plastic side and center control panels with leather seating. Upgraded technology like an Infinity Premium audio system, automatic climate control, Bluetooth and power sunroof are highlights, but foot room is sacrificed for flash in this area when it comes to back row seating, like most coupes. Although center cup holders were a nice touch, the limited back seat and 10 cubic feet of trunk space makes the Genesis Coupe better off as a two-person vehicle. But that’s the point!

When it came to overall power and driving ability, we weren't disappointed. Using the turbocharged 2.0-liter engine to really test the 210-horsepower, the Genesis Coupe produces 223-lb-ft of torque at 2,000 rpm—the kind of power that a coupe driver wants. We were also pleasantly surprised by the Coupe's adept steering and ability to handle turns smoothly and concisely. The track model comes with a six-speed manual transmission, which suits the engine just fine and allows for sharp handling. Want even more power? There's also an option for a 3.8-liter V-6 engine with 306 horsepower. 

No doubt that the Torsen limited slip differential, front and rear Brembo brakes, and stiff suspension of the Track model will appeal to the tuner crowd. But even with the bells and whistles, the Genesis Coupe proved surprisingly enjoyable to drive on city streets. Hyundai achieved a true trifecta with the rear-wheel drive, comfortable front seat cabin and impressive exterior design.

Overall, the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a car that is going to appeal to everyone from the tuner fanatic to the sports car lover on a budget. With an aggressive design from every angle and top notch performance attributes for its price, the Genesis Coupe is an all-around impressive creation from Hyundai, and a practical purchase choice for anyone wanting both flash and function.

Base price for the Hyundai Genesis Coupe starts at around $22,000, and the 2.0T Track model we tested is priced starting at $27,675.

In the sea of four-door family sedans on the market, there have been many attempts but few successes crossing over into the coupe world. Honda and Mitsubishi have had minor triumphs with their respective Accord Coupe and Eclipse, and Hyundai has also set a new benchmark with their Genesis Coupe. But Nissan may have set a new standard with its 2010 Altima Coupe. Taking the functionality and reliability of its four-door counterpart, Nissan has injected style and performance to convert it into a two-door coupe that's modern on the inside, sleek on the outside, and even more affordable than the competition.

At first glance, the 2010 Altima Coupe has a more sharply angled rear than the sedan, with dual exhaust pipes adding a sporty touch between the 18-inch allow wheels. While the rear and side views reveal a sporty and sexy design, the front is a different story. As you move around to the front of the car, you expect to see a sleeker, streamlined front end, but are a greeted with a more traditional extended sedan look. All-around the 2010 Altima Coupe is an attractive car but the head-on view of the car could almost pass for a Maxima.

What does manage to impress us about the Altima Coupe is the surprising power under the hood. The 3.5-liter V6 engine puts out 270-horsepower, accelerating 0-60 in just 5.5 seconds. For those less apt to having an iron foot, the 2.5 S model, with its 175-hp 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine is more than enough for the road. The 6-speed manual transmission comes standard on all models, and Nissan's Xtronic CVT (continuously variable transmission) proves impressive with its ability to max out fuel efficiency to a decent 27 mpg highway.

The interior is satisfying upon first glance; the layout is efficient, plus the soft-touch detailing on the dash and door panels are a pleasing addition while the leather-wrapped steering wheel gives off a luxurious vibe. iPod and Bluetooth hookups are centrally located, and the layout of the control panel was designed for function, not flash, with its digital climate control and steering wheel controls providing a convenient touch. The optional 4.3-inch screen display with rear camera ensures that the lower seating height doesn't compromise safety while backing out, and protects against significant blind spots.

The Premium package of the Altima Coupe comes equipped with an advanced nine speaker Bose audio system surrounding the front bucket-style seating and rear 60/40 fold seats. However, while the front cabin has the roominess and modern gadgetry a driver needs, the rear seats leave much to be desired, especially legroom, headroom and ease of entry. The 60/40 rear fold seats provide some additional space in the trunk, but not enough for carrying large loads. For the driver who has an occasional passenger, this set up is sufficient, but for those who consistently carpool or lug around extra baggage, backseat access and trunk space are a challenge. 

Extras are what make the Altima Coupe a safe bet for those looking for something sportier for cruising and comfortable enough for commuting. The XM NavTraffic gives drivers a heads up on traffic conditions on their route, allowing them to make alternate driving plans to avoid accidents and delays. The Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (NAABS), Traction Control System (TCS) and 4 wheel anti-lock brakes are just a few of the safety features passed on to the Coupe that have made the 4-door Altima one of the top-rated family sedans in the past. 

Overall, the 2010 Nissan Altima Coupe is a draw; it's sportier than a sedan, but not as flashy as its more luxurious cousins the Infiniti G35 Coupe or the 350Z. With a satisfying starting price point under $23,000 it's a great option for those looking for something sleeker than a sedan and less expensive than a luxury coupe, keeping in mind that certain design elements coupled with the driving performance make the Altima Coupe sufficient, but not mind-blowing. The bottom-line; it's fun to drive, good-looking, and filled with the modern gadgetry we all want—which is more than enough for most drivers.

It’s day #2 of the Ford Fiesta media preview and we just wrapped up the autocross. The program is completed and we are all en route home. Before we even get in to the day’s events, I think it’s important to point out the new direction Ford is going as a company. Having spent dinner last night and breakfast this morning among my media colleagues, one discussion topic resonated among the group. Ford is taking a much more aggressive approach to how they launch vehicles. Given the 1.6-liter, 120 HP motor, Ford ran us through the hills on the program culminating with a day at Candlestick Park, home of the San Francisco 49er’s, for an all-out autocross. Yes, helmets were required if that’s an indication of how the driving experience went.  

Again, our friends at Ford in the PR department kindly reminded us that we were fully under embargo until Monday 12:01 am EST.

So, since we cannot discuss the driving dynamics of this new vehicle, what do we talk about on Day #2?

For starters, you need to have a Smartphone of some kind. For our demonstration, Ford used the BlackBerry (RIM technology) as the platform, but we understand the new Droid can also be used. An iPhone application is also in the works. Integrated to work with Ford’s Sync System (it can only be used with Sync), all the user needs to do is pair their phone with Sync (Side note – if you don’t have Pandora, OpenBeak or Stitcher on your phone, you will need to download the application). Once paired, you are ready to go.

OpenBeak – Ford’s partnership with OpenBeak is an industry first. Users of this application will now be able to access their Twitter account and can receive their feeds, just like on their computer. The system is set up to receive voice prompts from the driver and you can either receive real-time readouts of your DM’s (direct messages) or your actual newsfeeds. The system is only set up to receive feeds. For safety, which we fully support, the OpenBeak application will not allow you to post tweets.

Pandora – Like Sirius or XM radio, Pandora now provides users with a music experience like no other. However, Pandora takes the experience to a new level. Not to say it’s comparing the CD to an 8-track, but the Pandora application is so much more sophisticated. Users can select the music of their choice and the Smartphone, in conjunction with Sync, will identify the individual song and begin playing it. If you like the song, you can press the Sync button and provide the voice prompt with the words “Thumbs Up” and the song will be stored on Pandora’s server under your name as a top song. Pandora will then match the algorithms of the song and identify like music for the user. You can create up to 100 different categories for your personalized music, from general genres to specific artists. And, it’s all “hands-free.”

Stitcher – For those of you that are news junkies, the Stitcher application is perfect for you. The application allows you to personalize your news feeds, similar to Twitter, with sports scores, specific industry news and more. If you’re in to ESPN or CNN, FOX News to NPR, you’ll be able to listen to your favorite news with Stitcher.

WE WILL BE POSTING OUR FIESTA REVIEW ON MONDAY.

Posted by Mike Caudill, auto expert, NADAguides.com

It’s day #1 of the Ford Fiesta media preview and we have spent the entire day behind the wheel of the all-new Ford. I am wiped out.

Yeah, we know, can’t post the driving impressions until Monday at 12:01 EST.

However, we can share with you a ton of information about the American Fiesta. The car’s appearance is simply inspiring. Ford is going against the grain in every capacity with its new little flagship. From lime green to sky blue, the car comes in a wide array of great colors.

The starting price of the entry level Fiesta is $13,995 and the mid-level trim is $15,795. The base model has more horsepower (120 @ 6,350 rpm) than others in the competitive segment. The MPG also ranks at the front of the class. Ford has reported that 12 million Fiestas have been sold worldwide. Much of the U.S. draw to this car has come through its aggressive social media campaign called the Fiesta Movement.

Ford also announced some additional news about its motorsports program and showcased an all-new rally car to be driven by Ken Block. So, the Fiesta isn’t being built to be an eco-box, it’s being developed as a global platform that will transcend from the street to the track.

Ford’s marketing team also gave the media some other pieces of interesting news. The traditional buyer of this market segment has also changed (Honda Fit, Honda Civic, Mazda 3, Toyota Corolla). Once considered to be a kid’s segment, the segment has grown and nearly 24% of the current buyers make over $100,000 per year. So, they can afford bigger and better cars, but why Fiesta?

Ford says:
- Fuel efficient
- Great value
- Fun-to-drive

We’ll leave the last bullet for Monday’s story when we can discuss the driving characteristics of this Fiesta.

Meanwhile, feast your eyes on a few shots from today’s program!

Posted by Mike Caudill, auto expert, NADAguides.com

The 2010 Mazda CX-7 crossover was first introduced to the U.S. market in 2006 at the Los Angeles International Auto Show and first hit the road in February 2007. Although the name crossover is still loosely defined and the physical appearance can sometimes be confusing, Mazda is one of the only manufacturers that has been able to really pull of the term crossover. Small SUV’s like the Honda Pilot and Lexus RX-350 are not crossovers, they are small 2wd SUVs.

What makes the Mazda CX-7 a crossover vehicle is its utility and versatility while staying true to Mazda’s sporty heritage. Its ride height is perfectly matched for the family that wants the space of a minivan, but without the “minivan.” The CX-7 is easy to get in an out of and, more importantly, easy for parents to get their kids in and out of. The ride height isn’t too high, nor too low. The exterior looks of the CX-7 are what seal the deal for me on it being a crossover. It looks like it could be a cross between a car, minivan and SUV.

The interior was open and spacious, a sporty steering wheel reminiscent of the one found in the Mazda Miata, while the gauge cluster is similar to the Mazda RX-8. Overall, the CX-7’s build quality and ergonomics are both very good but the feature that attracted our attention the most was the navigation system. The screen was perfectly integrated in to the dashboard, but its location was not typical. Mazda engineers positioned the screen up to a second tier in the dashboard and angled it where driver doesn’t have to look down towards the center console to see the display.

The fuel economy of the CX-7 we tested was 20-mpg city and 28 freeway and the safety features were impressive. The CX-7 received 5-stars for both Frontal and Side impact crashes. In short, the 2010 Mazda CX-7 remains a very good choice for those who need the practicality of a five-passenger crossover and want the sporty looks and performance that are the brand's benchmarks.

The Mazda CX-7 I Sport we tested was $26,190 and the base price starts at $21,700.

For more information on the 2010 Mazda CX-7, visit NADAguides.com.  

Just about every recent article written on the Buick nameplate starts with that same old, “It’s not your Grandpa’s Buick.” Although overused and quite true, the 2010 Buick LaCrosse seems less like a Buick and more like a Lexus. Sure, it’s debatable, but the exterior design, combined with a refined interior make the 2010 Buick LaCrosse a standout. Although entangled in the dilemma facing General Motors, Buick has stayed true to its brand and continues to develop classy American cars that its owners can be proud of. When you ask a 30-something old if they’d consider a Buick, the answer is always no. So, the question is, how will Buick change this? Enter the 2010 Buick LaCrosse CXS. The NADAguides.com team test drove this LaCrosse for one week and by the end of the week, we managed to sell one car. Our office neighbor saw it, sat in it, test drove it and bought it. Just that simple! Now if they could just recreate this among all model lines, Buick would be back among the elite.

The newest Lacrosse to hit the roads takes on many European design cues that give the LaCrosse a more taught, modern and masculine appearance. The front fascia and Buick’s classic “waterfall” grille design seamlessly fit together, along with the smooth flowing lines of the exterior shape and body of the car to give it an elegant and sophisticated stance. The CXS wheel alignment also sets it apart. Many of the popular German cars on the road work to push the front axle as far forward under the car as they can and the rear wheels towards the bumper, which gives the car a more performance based stance. Again, debatable, but Buick’s taken the right engineering direction and if younger consumers can get past the “Buick” name to see what this car really offers, we are sure they will change their tune.

The top-of-the-line CXS version has a 3.6L V6 with Variable Valve Timing and Direct Injection. Although slightly under horsepower at 280, the acceleration on to the freeway is consistent with a mid-tier luxury vehicle. It doesn’t throw you back in your seat, but it’s also not spinning the tires and the LaCrosse’s capable suspension paired with light-but-responsive steering allow you to hustle along nicely. The biggest drawback with the engine platform is fuel economy. The CXS gets 17 around town and 27 on the freeway and this is attributed to the weight of the car. Weighing in at just above 4,065 lbs., the best way to pull performance out of this car is by shifting the hydra-matic 6T40 6-speed transmission over to its sports mode.

The interior of the LaCrosse is what surprised me. Beautiful stitching and leather trim, large captain’s seats and plenty of room make the LaCrosse comfortable. Technology doesn’t play second fiddle in the LaCrosse. Bluetooth is extremely easy to use and Sirius Satellite Radio makes for enjoyable driving.

All-in-all, we can say the 2010 Buick LaCrosse is a car definitely worth taking a strong look at. It might not have blazing performance and speed, but let’s face it, what car really does. Take a ride in the LaCrosse and you'll know this is not your dad’s Buick and to put it in modest terms, it's just the car that GM needs post-bankruptcy.
With a starting price of $33,015, the Lacrosse is quite the deal.

For more information on the 2010 Buick LaCrosse, visit NADAguides.com.  

The Ford Mustang is the only muscle car to have been in continual production since inception and it shows with the all-new 2011 Ford Mustang. Setting the muscle car benchmark is no easy task and Ford shares the spotlight with both the Chevy Camaro and the Dodge Challenger. What differentiates these carsis truly in the eyes of the beholder as the horsepower and performance numbers stack up closely. However, the 2011 Mustang seems less like a pony and more like a thoroughbred. With a class-leading 305 horsepower 3.7-liter V6 and theall-new 412 horsepower 5.0-liter V8, the battle for horsepower supremacy continues between these automakers. Chevy won’t announce its complete specifications for the 2011 Camaro until later in the year, but they are hinting at upping their horsepower.

The 2011 Ford Mustang truly succeeds in taking every step possible to add to its muscle-car heritage, including an aggressive body style that looks even more similar to the 60’s pony car enthusiasts have come to know and love. Both models are equipped with superior driving dynamics and are perfectly mated to asix-speed manual transmission and rear wheel drive that leaves the rest of theherd in the dust. With multiple models and optional features such as aglass-top coupe or a convertible, the 2011 Mustang is even more versatile and customized for each owner’s style following suit with the Mustang heritage of “the car to be designed by you”. Since its introduction to the public in 1964, the Ford Mustang has been an American staple that both consumers and auto critics alike have fallen in love with. The 2011 Ford Mustang keeps that spark alive today with the creativity to satisfy both groups with its ongoing evolution.

You know what to expect when getting behind the wheel of theV8, but it was the V6 that was the true show stopper. The 305 horsepower with tuned exhaust and a 6-speed manual gearbox reminded us more of the previous Mustang V8. With the horsepower increase, which is the same horsepower of the original Ford Mustang SVT, was quick off the line and hugged every turn. Even with the increase in horsepower, the V6 gets class-leading 19 mpg on city streets and 31 mpg on the highway. The most impressive feature of the new powerplant was the low-end torque, which cranks out at roughly 7,000 rpm.

All you have to say with the V8 Mustang is 5.0. Mustang and auto enthusiasts alike respect the renown 5.0-liter Mustang as being one of the best Ford power plants of all-time. With 414 horsepower and 390 ft.lbs. of torque, this Mustang is the most powerful GT to date. As with the V6, performance was the goal, but better fuel economy had to be achieved. The GT gets up to 25 on the highway and 18 in the city.

The low rumble of the Ford Mustang GT is what it’s known for and the 2011 delivers in every way. To put it mildly, it’s simply an awesome sound. To achieve this exhaust note, Ford specially designed tubular exhaust headers to maximize exhaust pulse separation and improve flow.

With the performance enhancements under the hood, Ford engineers also enhanced the suspension of both the V6 and V8 with chassis adjustments to maintain the outstanding balance and driving behavior Mustang owners expect.

Ford highlighted the 2011 Mustang models with package options and safety features to make the classic more driver-friendly than ever. Dual stage front airbags and front seat side airbags, stability control, traction control and ABS brakes protect passengers from outside elements, whilekeyless entry, audio input jacks, Ford SYNC, and optional Shaker 1000 audio system plus a handy reverse cam for those tighter parking spots provide both creature comforts and convenience. The optional electronics package includes a voice activated Sirius navigation system with Travel Link and automatic temperature control, while the comfort package includes heated front seats, six way power passenger seats, and an auto dimming rearview mirror. Mustang nailed it with the interior features and packages that are available for the 2011 model; the interior is the finest the Mustang has ever looked.

The V8 model packs a heavy punch with its various options and embodies all the power and handling necessary to compete in the competitive segment. Meanwhile, the V6 is a thrill to drive while comfortably equipped. The 2011 Ford Mustang’s affordability seals the deal with an MSRP for the V8 Mustang GT starting at $29,645and the V6 at $22,145.

(Sonata GLS, SE and Limited in front of Torrey Pines)

With the debut of the Hyundai Genesis in 2009, the brand set out to attract buyers on an emotional level, similar to how BMW and Lexus have continued their prevalence in the luxury market. The plan was simple: design a sedan that’s easy on the eyes (not boring), fun-to-drive and put enough performance under the hood to allow it to get out of its own shadow. Then back all that up with an entry level price that’s affordable and tack on a 10 year, 100,000 mile warranty, and “oh, by the way” we’ll buy it back from you if you lose your job, and it’s a pretty good deal. 

Fast-forward to 2010 and now we get to talk about the 2011 Sonata! From the onset the exterior design of the Sonata is much more expressive than the Genesis and makes a bold statement for the brand. The Fluidic Sculpture design gives the Sonata a teutonic and pronounced look. Sporty might be a little too over the top, but if you compare its looks and performance features to the rest of the segment, we would argue the car is absolutely the sportiest of the bunch.

Designed right here in the U.S. at the Hyundai Design Center in Irvine, California, the Sonata is as American as Ford, GM or Chrysler. Built at the assembly plant in Montgomery, Alabama, the entry level Sonata comes in three trim options – the GLS, SE and the Limited. The interior is very spacious, offering a class-leading 7.4 more cubic feet than the Ford Fusion. Steering wheel-mounted controls are standard in most cars these days and the Sonata is no different, however, the SE and Limited come with proximity key/push start and fun-to-use paddle shifters. Heated seats can also be enjoyed on the Limited model. 

Bluetooth is one of those features we always like to pay special attention to. Granted, it may not be important to some, but many states have gone hands-free and for many consumers, setting up Bluetooth still isn’t easy. We connected the Bluetooth in less than one minute and the system worked flawlessly. Touch screen Navigation is also an option on the Limited with a 6.5-inch monitor and rearview camera. The one design feature we thought aesthetically looked great on the interior, but perhaps was a slight waste of space, was the vent control function. 

The performance features of the Sonata also make the car a standout. With an efficient 2.4L Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) 4-cylinder engine, the Sonata produces a class-leading 198 horsepower. Mix in the fact it’s also a Dual Over Head Cam (DOHC) 16-valve with Dual Continuously Variable Valve Timing (DCVVT) motor, and the combined MPG increases to a solid 23 in the city and an impressive 35 MPG on the freeway (class-leading). To support our opening comment about the Sonata being sporty, Hyundai has mated its SHIFTRONIC™ paddle shifters to its 6-speed automatic transmissions, but for the true enthusiast a 6-speed manual gearbox is also available. 

(Hyundai 2.4 GDI, 4-cycliner engine) 

The Sonata suspension is comprised of a MacPherson strut front suspension and an Independent Multi-link rear suspension design. The Sonata SE is where the suspension sees the most aggressive adjustments. The front suspension on the SE has been tuned with stiffer front springs at +23% and stiffer dampeners at +24%. The rear springs are +8% stiffer and the rear dampeners are +14% stiffer. To control body roll, the rear stabilizer bar was strengthened +13%. Even with the sporty suspension, the Sonata has the best turning radius at 35.8 feet. 

The safety features of the Sonata are mostly standard with Electronic Stability Control and six standard airbags. Hyundai expects the Sonata to receive a 5-Star Crash Rating by NHTSA as the materials used to protect the occupants of the Sonata consist of high-tensile materials and a steel hood inner frame to absorb collisions. 

The pricing of the Sonata shocked us! To compete in this ultra competitive segment, the starting price of the GLS is $19,195. That’s a bargain for this vehicle. If you option out the Sonata and elect to go with the fully loaded Limited you can look at a sticker price of $27,395. If you enjoy a slightly more aggressive package, the Sonata SE starts at $22,595.

(Hyundai Sonata SE)  

Without naming names, we would have placed the Sonata in fourth or fifth position going in to today’s media program, but once we drove the 2011 Sonata, it literally jumped to the front of the line. From the beautiful design cues to the class-leading MPG and powertrain, the Sonata delivers. Other midsize sedans and entry-level luxury vehicles better watch out because this 2011 Sonata is truly the complete package when it comes to affordable luxury.

(Media were out in full force for the Sonata Launch)

(Jim Trainor, National Manager, Public Relations)

Without question, the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO marks the return of the authoritative sports sedan that quickly rose to power in the late 80's but fell on hard times in recent years. Ford certainly got it right again by staying true to its Taurus SHO sport sedan heritage while delivering several new amenities and technologies that provide a dynamic ride and impressive power, coupled with fuel economy numbers that consumers desire. It's not only the turbocharged eco-conscious V-6 that makes the Taurus SHO a standout, it's the attention to detail in the interior. Ford's design team did an excellent job in engineering a classy interior that has the right amount of sportiness, combined with the creature comforts you'd expect to see in a higher priced sedan.

NADAguides.com selected the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO as its February Car of the Month because the Taurus is the most refined, well-crafted, and technologically advanced, and yes, fun-to-drive Taurus of all time. Powered by a 3.5-liter Super High Output (SHO) EcoBoost™ twin turbocharged V-6 engine, the performance version of Ford's all-new flagship delivers V-8 levels of power without compromising on V-6 fuel economy. After testing several other contenders in the competitive class, the Ford Taurus SHO is the winner hands down, based on its authentic "sleeper" sports sedan performance, universal appeal, and premium luxury accompaniments.

The 2010 Ford Taurus SHO is loaded with technology like radar cruise control with heads-up collision warning, radar sensors that detect cars in blind spots and to the left and right when reversing out of a parking space, keyless entry keypad, SIRIUS radio with traffic info, SYNC® 3.0 with navigation and 911-assist, massaging leather seats, a 12-speaker, 390-watt Sony stereo, rear view camera, push button start, rain-sensing wiper and MyKey, which allows owners to activate a restricted driving mode, Belt-Minder® safety system, audio system volume limits, an earlier low-fuel warning, and consistently-engaged AdvanceTrac® stability control. The top vehicle speed can be limited to 80 mph, and speed chimes can be programmed to engage at 45, 55, or 65 mph further protecting the owner's investment.

The most impressive aspect of the 2010 Ford Taurus SHO is a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine.  This advanced power plant generates an estimated 365 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 350 ft.-lbs. of torque at 3,500 rpm, resulting in significantly improved power, torque and fuel economy as compared to its larger V-8 brethren.  This also is Ford's most powerful EcoBoost engine and it is coupled with a driveline that combines a high-capacity six-speed 6F55 SelectShift transmission with a sophisticated torque-sensing All-Wheel Drive System.  These components work in unison to deliver substantial traction and control when putting Ford's EcoBoost power to the road.  The six-speed transmission allows spirited acceleration, yet comfortable high-speed cruising.  Unlike your father, expect to pay $45,000 for a fully-equipped SHO.

When Porsche first released the images of its new Panamera, enthusiasts, along with members of the media, paused with skepticism about whether Porsche could really pull off a four-door sports car. Although the Maserati Quattraporte reigns king as a four door, performance-based nameplate, the Panamera’s questionably styled rear end quickly became the banter of the industry.

Fast forward to the official media introduction in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. This would be the test. Will the performance of the Panamera be the topic of discussion or will the industry single out the rear end design as a gauge for the success of this vehicle?

For the record, we not only love the rear end design that is modeled after the 911, but the performance of this car is 100% Porsche. The distinct exhaust notes and the pure adrenaline of 500 horses not only makes this ride uniquely Porsche, but at a price tag starting just under $90,000, the Panamera is a steal.

After spending a full day both on the road and on the track, the NADAguides.com team, without question, has named the 2010 Porsche Panamera its “Car of the Month” for January. Selecting the Porsche Panamera was not a difficult decision as Porsche’s unique four-door grand touring sports car combines exceptional driving dynamics, a spacious and variable interior, and the supreme driving comfort one expects from generations of Porsche design philosophy. The result is a complete package for drivers who have truly arrived - a car that feels comfortable and composed whether rousting along the highway or cruising along favorite back roads.



“The Panamera is simply awe inspiring. Porsche has done an incredible job in designing a car that is so unique while retaining the look and performance of a pedigreed sports car,” said Michael Caudill, NADAguides.com Auto Expert. “The unmistakable, muscular shoulders that flow over the rear wheels, married to the sweep of the coupe-like roofline, and the visible tailpipes with their throaty exhaust notes echo the definable characteristics of a true Porsche.”

Like all Porsche models, the Panamera is accustomed to the needs of the driver. But now, thanks to the four-doors and sporty layout of the interior, the Panamera's occupants are also able to experience this special "pilot feeling" in all four seats. All four occupants enjoy supreme ergonomic comfort in the front and each of the uniquely contoured rear seats. The luggage compartment easily handles all the passengers' luggage, and the folding rear seat backs enable the space to be adjusted to a comfortable configuration for any adventure.



Porsche has even developed cutting-edge engine configurations for the Panamera. The Panamera S, 4S and Turbo are all powered by a 4.8-liter, V-8, but it’s the Twin-Turbo that gets all the attention, boasting 500 horsepower and Porsche’s renowned twin turbocharger technology, coupled with direct fuel Injection you get a fuel-efficient and exhilarating ride. All that power is transferred to the ground through a manual six-speed gearbox or the new seven-speed Double-Clutch Gearbox, also named the Porsche-Doppelkupplung (PDK). In addition to the customary rear-wheel drive, the top version of the Panamera comes with all-wheel drive, which is also available for the other versions as an option.

The NADAguides.com “Car of the Month” program is unique from any other review program in the automobile industry and provides consumers with expert commentary and practical information on the cars, trucks and SUVs they are shopping for. Selecting one vehicle per month, NADAguides.com will announce the “Car of the Month” through a multi-media platform including an online video review, press release and a comprehensive blog post where consumers can provide additional commentary.