The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 receives the latest OnStar 9.0 system with improved audio quality and speech recognition.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a full-size pickup truck that is offered in standard cab, extended cab and crew cab body styles. Standard and extended cabs are available with either a standard 6.5-foot bed or an 8-foot long bed. Regular cabs can be had in base Work or midlevel LT trims, while the extended and crew cabs are also available in LS and the range-topping LTZ trim. The LTZ piles on alloy wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control (in extended and crew cabs), an exclusive dash design with wood and metallic accents, leather upholstery, 12-way power-adjustable heated front bucket seats, driver-seat memory settings, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls, Bluetooth, remote engine start and a Bose audio system with a six-disc CD changer and rear audio controls.
The 2011 Chevy Silverado 1500 is available with four different engine choices. Work trucks are powered by a standard 4.3-liter V6 that produces 195 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. A four-speed automatic transmission with a tow and haul mode is standard on Silverado pickups with the base V6 and 4.8-liter V8. The 5.3-liter and 6.2-liter V8s utilize a six-speed automatic. Properly equipped, a Silverado 1500 can tow up to 10,700 pounds.
Fuel economy estimates range from 15 mpg city/22 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined for a crew cab XFE down to 12/19/14 mpg for a 4WD Silverado 1500 fitted with the 6.2-liter V8.
Safety In our testing, a Silverado crew cab with four-wheel disc brakes stopped from 60 mph in a short 120 feet.
Crew-cab models feature comfortable rear seats with flip-up seat cushions that provide a nearly flat load floor. Unlike previous generations of pickups, the 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is actually pleasant to drive. The 5.3-liter V8 feels brawny and the 6.2-liter V8 turns the Silverado into a veritable muscle truck.
The Malibu's rear seat space is tight compared to that of some competitors, and it lacks a center armrest. The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu is available in four trim levels: LS, 1LT, 2LT and LTZ.
Standard equipment on the Malibu LS includes 17-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry, cruise control, air-conditioning, full power accessories, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, OnStar and a six-speaker stereo with CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack.
The 2LT then adds remote engine start, Bluetooth, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a power driver seat, heated front seats, premium upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Every 2011 Chevrolet Malibu can be equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine as standard equipment, which generates 169 horsepower and 160 pound-feet of torque. Power is sent through the front wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission with manual shift control. Estimated fuel economy checks in at 22 mpg city/33 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined.
Safety The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, OnStar telematics, front side airbags and head curtain airbags. In brake performance testing, a V6 Malibu impressed us by stopping from 60 mph in a short, fade-free 122 feet.
Interior Design and Special Features The 2011 Chevrolet Malibu features a curvaceous dual-cowl dash design up front, emphasized strikingly by a couple of available two-tone interior color options. Mated to the now-standard six-speed automatic, even the fuel-efficient four-cylinder Malibu should deliver enough power and response for most buyers.
Despite a spacious cabin and comfortable ride, the 2011 Chevrolet Impala is outdone by most competitors. The Chevy Impala's practical strengths contribute to its mainstream appeal: a smooth ride, a quiet cabin, room for up to six, a large trunk and a solid safety record.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Chevy Impala is a full-size four-door sedan offered in three trim levels: base LS, midrange LT and top-drawer LTZ. LS models are equipped with standard 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, keyless entry, air-conditioning, five-passenger seating, six-way power driver seat, tilt-only steering wheel, full power accessories, OnStar and a six-speaker CD audio system with satellite radio and auxiliary audio jack.
Powertrains and Performance The front-wheel-drive Chevrolet Impala LS and LT models include a standard 3.5-liter V6 producing 211 horsepower and 216 pound-feet of torque, while the LTZ is equipped with a 3.9-liter V6 that generates 224 hp and 235 lb-ft of torque.
Both overhead valve engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission, while the Impala's competitors typically offer more sophisticated six-speed automatics. With less power, however, the Impala manages estimated fuel economy at 19 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 23 mpg combined.
Safety The 2011 Chevrolet Impala performs well in safety testing, and is equipped with standard antilock brakes, traction control, stability control, OnStar telematics, front side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the Impala earned the highest possible five-star rating in frontal and side-impact crash tests.
Interior Design and Special Features A quick tour of the Impala's cabin offers a good illustration of the strengths and weaknesses of its aging design.
The 2011 Volkswagen Golf is built on the same basic platform as the earlier Volkswagen Golf, a high-quality, highly rigid chassis. 2011 Volkswagen Golf dimensions prove it is no small car.
The Turbo’s rear spoiler pops up at speed and is designed to maintain rear-end stability in high-speed corners.
2011 Volkswagen Golf is easy to drive and operate. The 2011 2011 Volkswagen Golf is quieter than truck-based SUVs both in engine and road noise. Several technologies come standard that improve the driver’s ability to control The 2011 Volkswagen Golf in emergency maneuvers: electronic brake force distribution, active traction control, and vehicle skid control. Electronic brake force distribution (EBD) evenly distributes the braking force to the front and rear wheels. This reduces stopping distances. A brake assist function has been developed to help drivers who may not be depressing the brake pedal hard enough in an emergency braking situation.
Current Volkswagen GolfThe Volkswagen Golf is a compact hatchback available in a two- or four-door body style. Regardless of body style, the base Golf is powered by a 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that produces 170 horsepower. The Golf TDI model features a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel that produces 140 hp and a robust 236 pound-feet of torque. Regarding the Golf's current lineup, we strongly recommend the TDI model because of its higher level of equipment, strong engine and superior fuel economy. There is also a high-performance version of the Golf known as the GTI.
Used Volkswagen Golf ModelsThe Volkswagen Golf name returned for 2010, marking the first year for the redesigned sixth-generation model. Enjoyable to drive thanks to its responsive chassis, this Golf also offered a variety of engines. Golf TDI models sold from 2004-'06 had an updated version of the 1.9-liter that delivered 100 hp. Late in the model run, the limited-edition high-performance R32 was offered, sporting a 3.2-liter 240-hp VR6, all-wheel drive and tasteful body accents; it was sold only as a 2004 model.
The 115-hp 2.0-liter inline-4 was the volume engine, while the GTI offered the VR6, a narrow-angle 2.8-liter V6 that provided a thrilling 172 hp. Golf TDI models were offered intermittently during this generation, as VW had difficulty getting its 90-hp turbodiesel four-cylinder to meet U.S. emissions regulations. Although fun to drive, this generation of the Volkswagen Golf was notorious for spotty electrical problems. Power ranged from a 1.6-liter, 52-hp diesel to a 2.0-liter, 131-hp 16-valve inline-4 as seen in the GTI. Most Golfs from this era had a 1.8-liter four-cylinder.
2001 Ford Mustang GT models get unique hood and side scoops, so that you can tell 'em apart from V6 models. After a one-year hiatus, the Ford SVT Mustang Cobra returns for 2001.
Now 37 years old, the Mustang is quickly approaching middle age. There are four models: the V6 Coupe, the V6 Convertible, the GT Coupe and the GT Convertible. All V6 models have a 3.8-liter pushrod engine that makes 190 horsepower at 5,250 rpm and 225 foot-pounds of torque at 2,800 rpm. The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra is a high-performance Mustang that has been heavily modified by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT). The engine produces 320 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 317 ft-lbs. of torque at 4,750 rpm.
All Mustangs offer drivers and passengers supportive, upright front chairs, well-placed controls, clear views out the front and side windows, and acceptable dashboard and seat materials. For 2001, Ford upgraded the center console by adding a larger rear cupholder and repositioning the front cupholder, power point, tissue holder and parking brake boot. The standard, deluxe and premium trim groups offer varying levels of standard and optional equipment, with the premium trim group being the most inclusive.
The 2001 Ford Mustang GT suspension allows the car to be predictable during hard cornering and side-to-side weight transfers are progressive for added stability during high-speed lane changes. Rough pavement can make the ride uncomfortable in base- and GT-model Mustangs, however, as the rear suspension still uses a solid rear axle.
All-speed traction control and antilock brakes are standard on most trim levels. The Mustang is as popular as ever.
There are four models: the V6 Coupe, the V6 Convertible, the GT Coupe and the GT Convertible. The Ford SVT Mustang Cobra is a high-performance Mustang that has been heavily modified by Ford's Special Vehicle Team (SVT). All-speed traction control and antilock brakes are standard on most trim levels.
At the dawn of the 1970s, a redesigned Pontiac Firebird emerged, available only in a sleek coupe body style. But as that decade progressed, the Firebird's performance diminished while body graphics and spoilers, as if to compensate, grew more extroverted. The third-generation Firebird appeared for 1982, wearing a lighter, wedge-shaped hatchback body with flip-up headlights. Most Recent Pontiac Firebird Running from 1993-2002, the last Firebird generation continued the age-old tradition of performance and style above all else. Initially only a coupe body style was offered in base, Formula and Trans Am trims, the former coming with a 3.4-liter V6 (160 hp) and the latter pair with an "LT1" 5.7-liter V8 (275 hp). The following year saw the return of the Firebird convertible, while 1995 brought a 3.8-liter, 200-hp V6 for the base Firebird. For 1996, the V8 made 285 hp and Ram Air induction returned for that engine, boosting output to 305 hp.
Apart from minor trim differences and a bump in power to 310 hp for the V8 in 2001, the Firebird soldiered through 2002 mostly unchanged. Although fast, stylish and affordable, this Pontiac Firebird lacked refinement, particularly in regards to the interior. In our road test of a 1999 Firebird Formula, we found ourselves intoxicated by the rumbling V8 performance and racetrack-friendly handling. Consumer feedback is mostly favorable toward Firebirds from this era.
Past Pontiac Firebird Models A four-speed manual and three-speed automatic backed those engines up.
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR ranks 6 out of 7 Affordable Compact Wagons. Not all reviewers are impressed with the HHR’s old-school looks – some are even starting to say the HHR looks dated. But, the HHR’s exterior does come in handy. Despite the looks, the HHR is an affordable compact wagon, a that label is reflected in the car’s driving dynamics and fuel economy. If you’d like a small utilitarian vehicle for your business, the Chevrolet HHR is also available as a panel van.
The sporty SS trim has been dropped, but other 2011 Chevrolet HHR models carry on with minor changes only.
Introduction As before, the strong points of the 2011 Chevrolet HHR include its comfortable ride, versatile and roomy interior and impressive fuel economy. The 2011 Chevrolet HHR continues to be a respectable choice, particularly if you're fond of its retro styling.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Chevrolet HHR is available as a traditional four-door, five-passenger hatchback wagon or a two-seat Panel variant. The HHR Panel is meant for business owners with its windowless rear cargo panel doors and rear quarter panels, cargo floor storage compartments and rear 40-amp power point for accessory equipment.
The HHR is offered in three trim levels: LS, 1LT and 2LT. The HHR Panel comes as an LS only. The base LS model starts off with 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control, keyless entry, full powered accessories, a fold-flat front passenger seat, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat (regular HHR only), OnStar and a six-speaker CD/MP3 stereo with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
Safety Standard Chevrolet HHR safety equipment includes antilock brakes, stability and traction control, OnStar telematics and side curtain airbags.
The 2011 Chevrolet HHR also earns praise for its attractive, roomy passenger cabin
For 2011, the V6-powered 2011 Chevrolet Camaro gets a bump in horsepower from 304 to 312. Fitted with a power-operated top, the Camaro convertible is offered in the same V6 and V8 configurations as the coupe. If you like its looks, the 2011 Chevrolet Camaro will deliver.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro is a four-seat coupe or convertible available in V6-powered LS (coupe only), 1LT and 2LT trim levels, and V8-powered 1SS and 2SS trim levels.
Standard equipment on the LS includes black 18-inch steel wheels, automatic headlights, cruise control, keyless entry, air-conditioning, four-way manual front seats with power recline, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, OnStar and a six-speaker stereo with CD player, auxiliary audio jack and satellite radio. The 1LT adds 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps and eight-way power seats. The 2SS essentially features the 1SS's performance bits with the 2LT's convenience and luxury features.
Powertrains and Performance
A six-speed manual is standard and a six-speed automatic is optional. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 17 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 20 mpg combined with the manual, and 18/29/22 mpg with the automatic.
Every 2011 Chevy Camaro comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and OnStar. In Edmunds brake testing, both Camaro V6 and V8 coupes with 20-inch wheels came to a stop from 60 mph in an excellent 111 feet.
Muscle cars have traditionally had bland interiors, but th 2011 Chevrolet Camaro laudably mixes retro touches like square gauge hoods and the available four-pack of auxiliary gauges with a modern dash design.
Driving Impressions
The 2011 Chevrolet Camaro also displays impressive amounts of grip, communicative steering and a refined suspension that make it exponentially more talented around corners than any Camaro that came before it.
The Chevrolet Colorado receives no notable changes for 2011.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Chevrolet Colorado is a compact/midsize pickup offered in three body styles: regular cab, extended cab (with small rear access doors) and crew cab (with four regular doors). Crew cabs are equipped with shorter, 5-foot cargo boxes, while other models feature a 6-foot box. Work Trucks come standard with a front split-bench seat, air-conditioning, cruise control, OnStar and an AM/FM stereo. The 2LT trim includes 17-inch alloy wheels, a sliding rear window, chrome exterior trim and full power accessories. Colorado options include assist steps, chrome accessories, a towing package, and for crew cabs, leather-trimmed upholstery and power/heated front seats.
Powertrains and Performance
The 2011 Chevy Colorado offers a range of engines including an inline-4, inline-5 and a V8. Colorado 3LT trucks come with a 5.3-liter V8 generating 300 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Four-wheel-drive models feature a two-speed InstaTrac transfer case with dash-mounted controls.
EPA estimated fuel economy ranges from 18 mpg city/25 mpg highway and 21 combined on four-cylinder 2WD regular cabs down to 14 mpg city/19 mpg highway and 16 mpg combined on V8 4WD crew cabs. A properly equipped V8-powered Colorado can tow up to 6,000 pounds.
Safety
The 2011 Colorado comes standard with OnStar, antilock brakes, stability control, traction control and side curtain airbags.
Driving Impressions
The 2011 Chevrolet Colorado's smaller four- and five-cylinder engines are smooth enough, but the level of performance and hauling capacity fall short of those offered by the competition's V6s. The Colorado's four-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly, but can't match the sophistication of five-speed gearing found in competing automatics.
For 2011, the Chevy Aveo5 gets a standard cabin air filter and a free six months of OnStar's Directions and Connections plan.
On paper, the 2011 Chevrolet Aveo5 looks as if it could be a front runner in the subcompact economy car segment. Cheap price? High fuel economy? Respectable handling.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Chevrolet Aveo5 is available as either a sedan or a four-door hatchback, dubbed the Aveo5. The Aveo5 hatchback in 2LT form also comes with a rear spoiler.
Powertrains and Performance
The official EPA mileage estimates for the Aveo are respectable for this class, with a manual-equipped example achieving 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined. An Aveo with the automatic transmission drops to 25/34/28 mpg.
Safety
Front-seat side airbags are standard on all trim levels, but side curtain airbags (a feature that is increasingly common on subcompacts) aren't available. Stability control isn't offered.
In government crash tests, the 2011 Chevrolet Aveo5 sedan earned a top five-star rating for the driver and four stars for the passenger in frontal impacts. IIHS side-impact testing resulted in the second-lowest "Marginal" score.
Both the sedan and 2011 Chevrolet Aveo5 hatchback feature a 60/40 split-folding rear seat that allows for the transport of longer items.
Driving Impressions
Contrary to our customary recommendation to choose a manual transmission in this segment, the Aveo's automatic seems to be the better choice.
The Chevrolet Avalanche carries into 2011 essentially unchanged.
In the 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche's case, it's the combination of both pickup and SUV attributes that proves to be so appealing. Unlike a truck, however, the Avalanche's cab and bed aren't separate; instead, the Avalanche features an SUV's one-piece body.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche is a full-size crew-cab pickup with a removable rear window and exclusive midgate. The LS features a composite cargo bed, a removable three-piece cargo cover, side assist steps, a roof rack and deep-tinted rear privacy glass. Depending on the trim level, other stand-alone or packaged options include 20-inch chromed wheels, power running boards, an integrated trailer-brake controller, a sunroof, a front bench seat and a rear-seat entertainment system.
The 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche is available with either two-wheel drive (2WD) or four-wheel drive (4WD). A properly equipped 2WD Avalanche can tow up to 8,100 pounds. Standard safety features on the Chevrolet Avalanche include antilock disc brakes, stability control, front side-impact airbags and full-length side curtain airbags with a rollover sensor, plus GM's OnStar emergency communications system.
Interior Design and Special Features Climb up into the 2011 Chevrolet Avalanche and you'll find a passenger cabin that can seat up to six passengers with the available 40/20/40-split front bench seat or five with the standard front buckets. The rear tailgate and bed cover also lock to keep valuable cargo secure.
Other than changing option packages into trim levels, there are no changes for the 2010 Cadillac STS.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Cadillac STS is a large luxury sedan available in five trim levels � three V6s and two V8s. The V6 comes in Luxury Sport, Luxury and Premium trims, while the V8 comes in Luxury and Performance trims.
The V6 Luxury Sport comes with 17-inch wheels, leather seating, aluminum interior trim, eight-way power front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote keyless entry and ignition, satellite radio, an eight-speaker Bose sound system and OnStar. The V6 Luxury (yes, it's a step up from Luxury Sport) adds wood trim, front seat power lumbar supports, a CD changer, Bluetooth, driver memory settings, heated/ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel and rain-sensing wipers. The V6 Premium adds 18-inch wheels, upgraded braking, steering and cooling systems, limited-slip differential, automatic level control, rear spoiler, auto-dimming rearview mirror, headlight washers, auto-dimming xenon headlights, an upgraded surround-sound audio system and a navigation system.
Powertrains and Performance In performance testing, the STS V8 reached 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.
Safety Antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control and a full complement of airbags are standard on every Cadillac STS. In side-impact tests, the STS scored four stars for front passengers and five stars for rear passengers. Depending on trim level, the STS's cabin is fitted with aluminum accents and perhaps real wood trim as well.
Driving Impressions Although large in size, the 2010 Cadillac STS sedan feels three-fourths its size when driven with enthusiasm -- yet it rides like a supple luxury car when you're gobbling up miles on the highway. Cadillac offers an optional Magnetic Ride Control suspension that includes Touring and Sport modes.
For 2010, the Cadillac Escalade EXT loses a handful of formally standard features, such as the rain-sensing wipers and the rear-mounted indicator lights for the park assist feature. As expected of an Escalade, the EXT provides all the benefits of Cadillac's luxury-class full-size SUV, including bold, unabashedly American styling, a roomy and handsome cabin, plenty of luxury features and a powerful V8 engine. The Cadillac differs mainly in its styling, interior accommodations, features and bigger engine.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT is essentially a premium full-size crew cab pickup truck that's available in three trim levels: base, Luxury and Premium.
Standard features on the base version include 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, a roof rack, a road-sensing adaptive suspension, a fold-down midgate, power-adjustable heated front seats, driver memory settings, power-adjustable pedals, rear park assist (with rearview camera), leather upholstery, wood-grain trim, dual-zone automatic climate control, remote engine start, OnStar and Bluetooth. Stepping up to the Luxury trim adds auto-dimming high-beams, 22-inch chrome-clad wheels, an automatically adjusting (Magnetic Ride Control) suspension, a sunroof and a heated steering wheel. The top-of-the-line Premium adds power-retracting side steps and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Safety The 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and full-length side curtain airbags with rollover protection. Rear parking assist, adjustable pedals and OnStar are also standard.
Interior Design and Special Features Folding away the rear seats and removing the midgate extends the pickup bed into the interior, providing 101 cubic feet of cargo volume.
Driving Impressions News flash: The 2010 Cadillac Escalade EXT is big and heavy -- really big and heavy.
The 2010 Cadillac Escalade receives a number of notable upgrades. Handsome double-stitched leather upholstery and faux wood trim are complemented by an impressive list of upscale standard features.
For 2010, the full-size 2010 Cadillac Escalade SUV is offered in four different trim levels. Even entry-level models are very well-equipped, with 18-inch alloy wheels, an adaptive suspension with electronically controlled shock absorbers, xenon headlamps, an auto-dimming driver-side mirror, a power liftgate, rear parking sensors and fixed running boards. Inside you'll find heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power-release feature for second-row seats and a blind-spot warning system. The Premium trim level adds power-retractable running boards and a rear-seat DVD video entertainment system with a ceiling-mounted screen. The short list of available options includes different styles of 22-inch alloy wheels, a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and the rear-seat DVD video system with the overhead screen (Luxury model only).
EPA estimates stand at 14 mpg city/20 highway for the 2WD Escalade, slightly higher than the 2009 Escalade. Properly equipped, two-wheel-drive versions can tow a healthy 8,300 pounds.
Standard safety features on the 2010 Cadillac Escalade include electronic stability control, antilock disc brakes, traction control, front side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags that cover all three rows and the OnStar telematics system. In government crash tests, last year's Escalade earned a top five-star rating for crash protection in frontal and side-impact protection. Interior Design and Special Features
Adding the available second-row bench raises total seating capacity to eight.
If you choose to lose the third-row seat, however, you'll end up with a cavernous 60.3 cubic feet of cargo room behind the second-row seats. Fold those second-row seats down and the cargo capacity grows to an impressive 108.9 cubic feet.
The 2010 Cadillac CTS gets a new base engine that produces more horsepower and returns slightly better fuel economy. The CTS can also be equipped with an Eco Lux Collection, which increases fuel economy to 30 mpg highway.
What is an American luxury car? Some drivers may also find the CTS's awkward driving position and compromised rear visibility to be deal breakers. Hyundai's Genesis, meanwhile, offers similar levels of luxury at a cheaper price.
For Cadillac, the CTS is one giant leap in the right direction.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2010 Cadillac CTS is a five-passenger midsize luxury sedan. Trim levels are 3.0 base, 3.0 Luxury, 3.0 Performance, 3.6 Performance and 3.6 Luxury.
The 3.0 Luxury adds an eight-way power passenger seat, heated front seats, driver memory functions, leather upholstery, a wood-and-leather steering wheel, interior ambient lighting, Bluetooth and a six-CD changer. The CTS 3.0 Performance has the Luxury's equipment plus 18-inch wheels, performance brakes, upgraded FE2 sport-tuned suspension, a limited-slip rear differential and adaptive HID headlamps. The camera and navigation system are optional on all but the base CTS. The 19-inch Summer Tire Performance package available on 3.6 models adds 19-inch wheels, summer tires, an upgraded FE3 performance suspension and enhanced power steering.
Powertrains and Performance The 2010 Cadillac CTS is available with two V6 engines. It returns fuel economy of 18 mpg city/27 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined.
In performance testing, this engine with the automatic propelled a rear-wheel-drive CTS sedan from zero to 60 mph in 6.7 seconds.
Safety The CTS's standard safety features include antilock disc brakes, traction control, stability control, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and GM's OnStar emergency communications system.
In government crash testing, the 2010 Cadillac CTS sedan was awarded a perfect five stars for side protection. In brake testing, the CTS 3.6 Premium with FE2 suspension and all-season tires came to a stop from 60 in a solid 117 feet.
For 2011, the Cadillac STS loses its V8 option. Being the middle child can be pretty tough; just ask the 2011 Cadillac STS. Overall, the 2011 Cadillac STS remains a decent luxury sedan.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Cadillac STS is a large luxury sedan available in three trim levels: V6 Luxury Sport, V6 Luxury and V6 Premium. The V6 Luxury (yes, it's a step up from Luxury Sport) adds wood trim, power lumbar for the front seats, a CD changer, Bluetooth, driver memory settings and heated front seats. Options for the Luxury Sport are minimal, consisting of a performance brake package and all-wheel drive. The Premium trim offers a Performance Handling package (includes upgraded brakes, high-performance summer tires and chrome wheels) as well as a Premium Luxury Collection package (includes a sunroof, a blind-spot monitor, lane-departure warning and a head-up display).
All trims come standard with rear-wheel drive, and AWD is an option on the Luxury Sport and Luxury trims.
Safety Antilock disc brakes (with brake assist), stability control and a full complement of airbags are standard on every 2011 Cadillac STS. The Cadillac STS has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash testing procedures. In side-impact tests, the STS scored four stars for front passengers and five stars for rear passengers. Depending on trim level, the STS's cabin is fitted with aluminum accents and real wood trim as well.
The Cadillac SRX carries over unchanged for 2011. For one, the SRX is fat. While legroom is generous, headroom is notably cramped for even average-height passengers because of the panoramic sunroof that's standard on all but the base SRX. In total, the 2011 Cadillac SRX is an appealing compact luxury crossover as long as you can live with its insufficient performance and compromised backseat. The 2011 Cadillac SRX is a compact luxury crossover SUV available in six trim levels: Base, Luxury, Performance, Premium, Turbo Performance and Turbo Premium.
The SRX Luxury adds front and rear parking sensors, power-folding and driver-side-dimming mirrors, automatic wipers, keyless ignition/entry, a power tailgate with adjustable maximum height, a panoramic sunroof, remote engine start, driver memory functions, power-adjustable pedals, heated front seats with eight-way power passenger adjustment, leather upholstery, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a cargo management system, interior accent lighting, wood trim, Bluetooth and a rearview camera.
The top-shelf SRX Premium gains tri-zone climate control, ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and rear seat audio controls.A rear-seat DVD entertainment system with dual seat-mounted
screens is optional on all trims but the base SRX. The 2011 Cadillac SRX comes standard with a 3.0-liter V6 that produces 265 hp and 223 pound-feet of torque. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive optional on all but the base SRX. The 2011 Cadillac SRX comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front seat side airbags, side curtain airbags and OnStar. In Edmunds brake testing, an SRX Luxury Collection with 18-inch wheels came to a stop from 60 mph in a longer-than-average 128 feet. An SRX Turbo with 20-inch wheels was essentially no different.
In government crash tests, the SRX scored a perfect five stars in front impact testing for driver protection and side protection. The SRX's interior is its single most appealing aspect.
Driving Impressions In other respects, the 2011 Cadillac SRX is a commendable luxury crossover.
The 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT is one of three Escalade models and is essentially a cross between an SUV and a crew-cab pickup. For all its luxurious versatility, the Cadillac Escalade EXT's hefty 6,000-pound weight contributes to lackluster braking performance and poor fuel economy. The 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT is a premium full-size sport-utility truck offered in three trim levels: base, Luxury and Premium.
Standard features include 18-inch alloy wheels; automatic xenon headlamps; foglamps; a roof rack; an adaptive suspension; rear parking sensors; power-folding and driver auto-dimming mirrors; a fold-down midgate; leather upholstery; 10-way power front seats with heating, cooling and driver memory settings; power-adjustable pedals; tilt-only steering wheel; dual-zone automatic climate control and remote engine ignition. The Luxury trim adds 22-inch chrome alloy wheels, Magnetic Ride Control adjustable suspension (optional on base), automatic high beams, power sunroof and a heated steering wheel. Every 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT powered by a 6.2-liter V8 producing 403 horsepower and 417 pound-feet of torque.
Power is transferred through a six-speed automatic transmission, full-time AWD and heavy-duty locking rear differential. All 2011 Cadillac Escalade EXT models include standard antilock disc brakes, stability control, traction control, front side-impact airbags and full-length head curtain side-impact airbags with rollover protection. Other standard safety features include rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and OnStar communications. The Escalade EXT's cabin treats its occupants to the experience expected of a Cadillac.
There are luxury SUVs and then there's the 2011 Cadillac Escalade. There are full-size SUVs and then there's the Escalade. An adjustable suspension that's standard on all but the base Escalade optimizes ride and handling. Truly, the Escalade lives up to its Cadillac badge.
Sometimes, the only vehicle that'll do is an Escalade. The 2011 Cadillac Escalade is a full-size luxury SUV available in four trim levels: Base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum Edition. The base Escalade comes standard with 18-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, power-folding and driver-side auto-dimming exterior mirrors, a power liftgate, automatic xenon headlights, foglights and running boards. The Escalade Luxury adds chromed 22-inch cast-aluminum wheels, automatic headlight high-beams, a blind-spot warning system, a suspension with an active damping system (optional on the base model), a sunroof, power-folding and tumbling second-row seats and a heated steering wheel.
The Escalade Premium adds power-retractable running boards and a rear-seat DVD entertainment system with a single roof-mounted display (optional on Luxury). The 2011 Cadillac Escalade is powered by a 6.2-liter V8 good for 403 hp and 417 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard on the Escalade, but all-wheel drive is optional. The Escalade features cylinder deactivation technology for improved fuel economy.
Safety Standard safety features on the Escalade include stability control, antilock disc brakes, traction control, front side-impact airbags, full-length side curtain airbags, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera and OnStar emergency telematics. In government crash testing, the 2011 Cadillac Escalade received a perfect five stars for frontal crash protection.
Adding the available second-row bench raises total seating capacity to eight. Fold those second-row seats down and the cargo capacity grows to an impressive 108.9 cubic feet.
The Cadillac DTS sedan is available in five package / trim levels: 1SA, 1SB, 1SC, 1SD and Performance. All five models come standard with all-speed traction control, 4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes, cruise control, leather seating and at least dual-zone front climate control. The 1SB package adds StabiliTrak electronic stability control system with brake assist, an ultrasonic parking assist system, as well as GM's heated windshield washer fluid. The two outboard rear seats are electrically heated along with the steering wheel.
For 2011, the Cadillac DTS carries over essentially unchanged.
The 2011 Cadillac DTS sedan is something of a modern take on the classic American luxury car. In fairness, some of those vehicles can cost $10,000-$30,000 more than the 2011 Cadillac DTS. As an American luxury sedan in the classical sense, the DTS gets it right.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Cadillac DTS full-size sedan is available in four increasingly well-equipped trim levels: base, Luxury, Premium and Platinum.
The base DTS includes 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, foglights, remote engine start, dual-zone automatic climate control, leather upholstery, power front seats, OnStar and an eight-speaker CD stereo with satellite radio. Step up to the Luxury model and you get 17-inch chromed wheels, a sunroof, front and rear parking sensors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, triple-zone climate control system, heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, a heated steering wheel, driver seat memory settings and an eight-speaker Bose audio system with a six-disc CD changer.
Other notable options include adaptive cruise control and a 40/20/40-split front bench that gives the DTS seating for six.
Under the hood, the 2011 Cadillac DTS has a 4.6-liter V8. The DTS Platinum differs with 22 mpg on the highway.
Safety
Standard safety features include electronic stability control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags. Side-impact tests resulted in four stars front and rear.
Interior Design and Special Features
While front bucket seats are standard, the available 40/20/40-split front bench makes this one of the few modern sedans that offers seating for six.
The 2011 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 receives the latest OnStar 9.0 system with improved audio quality and speech recognition.
