A new GT-R Black Edition debuts. Where high technology meets high performance, you find some serious automobiles. As an example, look no further than the 2012 Nissan GT-R. As the representative of Nissan's latest technology, the GT-R packs some pretty serious hardware, including a fire-breathing twin-turbo V6, a dual-clutch automated manual transmission, an advanced all-wheel-drive system and a sport-focused suspension with adaptive dampers. The GT-R's performance numbers push it into supercar category, yet the Nissan maintains a significantly lower price point.
This year the Nissan GT-R expands its performance envelope even farther. The 2012 Nissan GT-R is a high-performance sport coupe with a 2+2 seating layout that is offered only in the Premium trim level.
Standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels with high-performance tires, automatic xenon headlights, LED running lights, Brembo brakes, an electronically adjustable suspension, leather/faux-suede upholstery, heated power-adjustable front seats, keyless ignition/entry, dual-zone automatic climate control and an 11-speaker Bose CD/MP3 audio system with two subwoofers, satellite radio, iPod connectivity and Bluetooth phone and streaming audio. A new GT-R Black Edition adds lightweight black wheels, a unique black and red interior and leather Recaro seats.
Powertrains and Performance The 2012 Nissan GT-R is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that generates 530 hp and 488 lb-ft of torque. Standard safety features on the GT-R include antilock Brembo brakes, stability control and traction control. In Edmunds brake testing of a previous GT-R, we've recorded a best 60-0-mph stopping distance of 98 feet, which ranks among the shortest distances we've ever seen. The rather austere cabin of the 2012 Nissan GT-R is meant to convey an impression of performance and technology.
Driving Impressions The 2012 Nissan GT-R achieves an impressive level of performance by utilizing technology rather than brute force. Road noise can be intrusive at times, but we think it's a small price to pay for the 2012 Nissan GT-R's otherworldly performance.
For 2012, the Hyundai Genesis coupe gets more power and a mild styling refresh. Introduction
More muscle is always welcome in the sport coupe segment, and the Genesis coupe sees higher output for both the turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 (2.0T models) and the 3.8-liter V6 (3.8 models). Both automatics also offer manual gearchange capability.
The 2012 Hyundai Genesis coupe is set to debut early in 2012 at the Detroit auto show. After yesterday’s confirmation from Hyundai Australia that the next-generation Hyundai Genesis Coupe will make its way to our shores, images taken by a Hyundai employee have been leaked online showing the face of the new 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe. The headlights for the next-generation 2012 Hyundai Genesis Coupe feature a more complex design, with separate coves and sharper angles for different segments of the headlight cluster and separate bulbs.
The Toyota Land Cruiser carries over unchanged from the 2010 model year.
The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is an icon for Toyota, but it's also like a misfit at a high school dance. As a large SUV, the 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a strong choice in the segment. The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is a full-size luxury SUV available in just one well-appointed trim level.
Most options are bundled into the pricey Upgrade package that includes a rear spoiler, a rear-seat entertainment system, a navigation system, real-time traffic update feature, a back-up camera, wood interior trim, heated second-row seats and a center console cooler box. The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser is powered by a 5.7-liter V8 engine that produces 381 hp and 401 lb-ft of torque.
Safety Standard safety features include antilock disc brakes (with brake assist and multi-terrain programming), stability control, front and second-row side airbags, front knee airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and active front head restraints. The 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser also receives Toyota's Safety Connect telematics system, which is similar to GM's OnStar, notifying emergency responders if the airbags deploy or if a severe rear-end collision is detected.
Driving Impressions As with previous 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser, the 2011 model has excellent off-road capability while still delivering a thoroughly comfortable ride on urban streets. When exploring the untamed wilds, the Land Cruiser's crawl control takes much of the worry out of the hands (or feet) of the driver.
Few trucks or SUVs are as well-known around the globe as the Toyota Land Cruiser. The history of the Toyota Land Cruiser dates back to the early 1950s. Soon after, Toyota gave this original "20 Series" vehicle the Land Cruiser name.
Though Toyota introduced the FJ20 to the U.S. market in 1958, it is that vehicle's replacement -- the FJ40 Land Cruiser that debuted a few years later -- that most people recognize as being the classic Land Cruiser. Modern Toyota Land Cruisers still maintain their forebears' focus on off-road ability but are now much more upscale, comfortable and accommodating.
Current Toyota Land Cruiser A six-speed automatic channels this output to all four wheels via the Land Cruiser's full-time 4WD system with selectable low-range gearing. We're guessing most 2011 Toyota Land Cruiser buyers won't mind, since this SUV still offers superior off-road capability while raising the level of luxury to new heights. Notable add-ons include a rear-seat DVD entertainment system, a navigation system and wood trim.
We also have our reservations about the Land Cruiser's lofty price, especially with desirable options.
Used Toyota Land Cruiser Models The current Toyota Land Cruiser represents the fifth generation, which was introduced for 2008. There have been no major changes since, though 2007-'09 models lacked the current model's advanced telematics system (Toyota Safety Connect) and expanded audio connectivity.
The fourth-generation Toyota Land Cruiser was produced from 1998-2007. As an option, Toyota offered an adjustable suspension system. We liked this version of the Land Cruiser -- a lot. Generally, the newer the Land Cruiser is, the more features it will have. In Edmunds.com reviews of the third-generation Toyota Land Cruiser, praise was given for its impressive off-road ability, strong engine and durable nature.
Like other vehicles in this growing segment, the Versa combines excellent fuel economy, solid build quality and space-efficient interior design while remaining very affordable. The four-door Versa also distinguishes itself with many upmarket features and the choice of an inexpensive 1.6-liter engine or a relatively peppy 1.8-liter.
Current Nissan Versa The Nissan Versa economy car comes in two body styles: a four-door hatchback and a four-door sedan. Both body styles share the Versa's distinctive high bulbous roof line, which allows for a huge amount of interior space. The Nissan Versa is available in four trim levels: 1.6 Base, 1.6, 1.8 S and 1.8 SL. Standard features on the 1.8 S include air-conditioning, power mirrors and a six-disc CD changer. A five-speed or six-speed manual transmission is standard on most trims, with a four-speed automatic being optional.
Used Nissan Versa Models The Nissan Versa was new for 2007.
The 2012 Nissan Versa is a tale of two cars. The Versa sedan has been completely redesigned for 2012. The Versa hatchback, however, soldiers on in its previous guise with only standard feature upgrades on which to hang its hat. In terms of exterior size, the new 2012 Versa sedan is largely unchanged. Fuel economy is up, and when equipped with the revised continuously variable automatic transmission, the Versa sedan achieves an impressive 33 mpg combined EPA estimate. The sedan's also between 3 and 6 mpg better than the hatchback depending on transmission.
Inevitably, though, your choice is more complicated than simply Versa versus Versa. The 2012 Nissan Versa is available in sedan and hatchback body styles, but each represents different vehicle generations. The Versa sedan comes in three trim levels: S, SV and SL. Stepping up to the Versa SV sedan adds the Cruise Control package, full power accessories, keyless entry, upgraded upholstery and upgraded gauges.
The Versa SL sedan gets 15-inch alloy wheels, foglights, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat and the contents of the SV Convenience package. The Versa hatchback is available in S and SL trim levels. The Convenience package adds the Plus package, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, Bluetooth, steering wheel audio controls and an iPod interface. The 2012 Nissan Versa sedan is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder that produces 109 hp and 107 pound-feet of torque.
In Edmunds performance testing, a manual-equipped Versa hatchback went from zero to 60 mph in 9.4 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg city/31 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined with the manual and 24/32/27 with the automatic. The Versa hatchback SL comes standard with a CVT, which brings fuel economy up to 28/34/30.
Regardless of body style, the 2012 Nissan Versa comes standard with antilock brakes (front disc, rear drum), brake assist, traction and stability control, front seat side airbags and side curtain airbags.
While the interiors of the Versa sedan and hatchback differ in design, their basic virtues are similar.
He engines in the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG, for example, are shared with the E-Class and are connected to Mercedes' familiar seven-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift capability.
Overall, though, for the luxury car buyer who desires distinctive styling, strong performance and a sumptuous interior, the Mercedes-Benz CLS is easy to recommend.
Current Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class The Mercedes-Benz CLS is available as the CLS550 or the CLS63 AMG. As the rear-wheel-drive CLS is meant to be a relatively exclusive and upscale car, Mercedes hasn't bothered to offer a V6-powered model. Rather, the lineup starts with the CLS550. Paddle shifters are standard on the CLS63 and optional on the CLS550.
The CLS63 AMG needs only 4.4 seconds to hit 60 mph. In reviews, we've noted that the Mercedes-Benz CLS cars offer plenty of entertainment value to go along with their gorgeous exteriors. Used Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class Models Mercedes-Benz introduced the stunning, performance-oriented CLS500 sedan in 2006. As the CLS500's name suggests, it came with a 5.0-liter V8 rated at 306 hp. In that first year, Mercedes also offered the 469-hp CLS55 AMG. These models were superseded by the CLS550 and CLS63 AMG for 2007.
All Challengers benefit from extensive changes made to the suspension, steering and brakes, resulting in a more rewarding car to drive. Having said that, you can't ignore the Challenger's competitors.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Dodge Challenger is a five-seat coupe available in three trim levels that each correspond to a different engine: SE, R/T and SRT8 392. Standard equipment includes 18-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, remote ignition (requires the automatic transmission), full power accessories, cruise control, automatic climate control, rear A/C outlets, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, an eight-way power driver seat with manual lumbar adjustment, a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a trip computer and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack.
The Rallye package includes those features plus automatic headlamps, foglamps, leather upholstery, heated front seats and a six-speaker Boston Acoustics sound system. The Super Sport Group adds 20-inch chrome-clad wheels and performance-tuned suspension, brakes and steering.
The Challenger R/T gets a V8 engine, automatic headlamps, foglamps, heated mirrors, the SE's Connectivity Group and all of the SE's Super Sport Group equipment minus the wheels. The R/T Plus package adds 20-inch chrome-clad wheels, leather upholstery, heated front seats and the Boston Acoustics system. The Challenger SRT8 392 gets all the R/T's basic equipment, but adds xenon headlamps, unique 20-inch wheels, sport seats, an upgraded trip computer with real-time performance data, hydraulic power steering (versus electrohydraulic), upgraded brakes and suspension, and a one-day driver training course at the Richard Petty Racing School. The Track Pak adds a six-speed manual transmission. The regular Challenger's Sound Group II and both navigation systems are also available.
The 2011 Dodge Challenger SE is powered by a new 3.6-liter V6 that produces 305 hp and 268 lb-ft of torque. A five-speed automatic is standard. The Challenger SRT8 392 gets a 6.4-liter V8 that produces 470 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. In Edmunds testing, an automatic-equipped SRT8 392 went from zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
Every 2011 Dodge Challenger comes standard with antilock disc brakes (size and power differs based on trim and certain option packages), stability and traction control, active front head restraints, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Unlike the Dodge Challenger's distinctive-looking exterior, the interior is quite bland.
The 2011 Hyundai Elantra has been fully redesigned, with an attractive design, new features, an efficient 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine and new six-speed transmissions.
What do the life stories of Cinderella and the Hyundai Elantra have in common? For the fully redesigned 2011 Hyundai Elantra sedan, that moment is now. Beneath that dolled-up exterior, the new Elantra sports a new 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a choice of six-speed manual or automatic transmissions.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options The 2011 Hyundai Elantra is a compact sedan that's offered in two trim levels. The GLS base model comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, keyless entry, a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, trip computer, full power accessories, a tilt-only steering wheel and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and an iPod/USB audio interface.
Options for the GLS include the Popular Equipment package that adds 16-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, cruise control and a telescoping steering wheel. EPA estimates are 29 mpg city/40 mpg highway and 33 mpg combined.
The 2011 Hyundai Elantra's list of standard safety features includes traction and stability control, antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints, front seat side-impact airbags and side curtain airbags that cover both rows. In Edmunds brake testing, an Elantra Limited needed 125 feet to stop from 60 mph -- a good distance for the segment.
Interior Design and Special Features The 2011 Hyundai Elantra features a large trunk with 14.8 cubic feet of cargo room, a generous number for this segment.
Driving Impressions Compared to last year's car, this new Elantra is more fun to drive.
For 2011, the Toyota FJ Cruiser receives minor equipment changes, including upgraded standard audio system and better access to the rear seat, plus folding headrests for rear seat passengers.
Introduction Rear-seat ingress and egress is also awkward. As midsize SUVs go, the 2011 FJ Cruiser has formidable competition. The 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser is a midsize SUV with standard-size front doors and smaller, rear-hinge half doors. Options include a Convenience package that offers keyless entry, power side mirrors, cruise control, rear privacy glass, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a rearview camera.
The TRD package includes 16-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain tires and off-road-biased suspension tuning. The All Terrain package (available on 4WD models) includes Bilstein shocks, a locking rear differential, active traction control and the additional gauges of the Upgrade package. FJs with manual transmissions are only available with a full-time four-wheel-drive system; models with automatic transmissions come with either two-wheel drive or a part-time 4WD system.
Safety Standard safety features include stability control, traction control, antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags and rollover-sensing side curtain airbags. The Toyota FJ Cruiser has not been rated using the government's new, more strenuous 2011 crash-testing procedures. In side-impact testing, front and rear passenger protection received five stars.
Front visibility is also less than optimal due to the FJ's high hood line.
With the rear seats folded, 67 cubic feet of cargo space is created.
The 2011 Toyota FJ Cruiser is in its element when off-road. Notably, the FJ does not require premium fuel.
A new GT-R Black Edition debuts.
