GMC Terrain 2012

New in 2011, the GMC Terrain comes back for the 2012 model year with minor changes, especially in the infotainment system. For 2012, the GMC Terrain gets standard touchscreen audio interface that can be paired through Bluetooth audio streaming to internet-based services, and standard rearview camera display. Other significant change is new E85 flex-fuel capability for its 2.4-liter engine.

The 2012 GMC Terrain is the twin to the Chevrolet Equinox and it competes with Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, Toyota RAV4 and Ford Escape.

The 2012 GMC Terrain is a five-passenger crossover SUV available in SLE and SLT trim levels with two different model for each trim level and MSRP from $25,560 to $ 31,260. Standard equipment on the SLE-1 model includes 17-inch alloy wheels, tinted windows, foglights, heated mirrors, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a rearview camera, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a six-speaker sound system with a touchscreen interface, a CD player, satellite radio, auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB interface. The SLE-2 adds roof rails, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, automatic climate control and a premium eight-speaker Pioneer audio system. The available Convenience package adds heated front seats and remote ignition.

The 2012 GMC Terrain SLT-1 adds to the SLE2 with Convenience package an perforate leather upholstery. The SLT-2 adds 18-inch chrome-clad wheels, rear parking sensors, a power liftgate, chrome exterior trim and a sunroof.

2012 GMC Terrain is offered in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models. All models include four-wheel disc brakes with StabiliTrak electronic stability control and traction control as well as six standard airbags: dual frontal airbags, head curtain side airbags and pelvic/thorax seat-mounted side airbags.

The 2012 GMC Terrain provides 31.6 cubic feet of cargospace with all seats in use and 63.9 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Terrain’s rear seats are roomy, which is a rare find within the compact SUV class. Thanks to the Terrain’s sliding rear seats, passengers can adjust the rear seats for more leg space.

The 2012 GMC Terrain features a choice of two engines: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder or a 3.0-liter V-6. Both engines feature fuel-saving direct-injection and continuously variable valve timing technology. Standard 2.4-liter Ecotec engine delivers 182 horsepower and 172 pound-feet of torque. EPA estimated fuel economy for 2012 Terrain with 2.4-liter engine stands at 22 mpg city/ 32 mpg highway with front-wheel drive and 20 mpg city/ 23 mpg highway with all-wheel drive. The 3.0-liter V6 engine is rated at 264 hp and 222 lb-ft of torque with EPA estimated fuel economy of 17 mpg city/ 25 mpg highway with FWD and 17 mpg city/ 20 mpg highway with AWD.

Standard transmission of 2012 GMC Terrain is an efficient six-speed automatic with “Eco” mode.

The experts of autos.aol.com website say about 2012 GMC Terrain:

The GMC Terrain is a generously sized compact (or small midsize) crossover SUV best suited to young families. It’s well designed and executed, with state of the art powertrains, features and safety systems.

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2012 Ford Expedition

The 2012 Ford Expedition is a truck-based (F150), full-size SUV that can carry up to eight people. It competes with GMC Acadia, Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Tahoe and Toyota Sequoia. The 2012 Ford Expedition is one of the most spacious vehicle on sale in U.S., even bigger when you decide on the EL version. The 2012 Expedition continues to carry the traditional SUV flag in a market place that’s being flooded with more and more car-based crossovers.

The 2012 Ford Expedition (MSRP range $38,355 – $50,425) is a full-size body-on-frame SUV available in two body lengths: regular and the EL, which adds 15 inches of overall length. Each is offered in four trim levels: base XL, midrange XLT, upscale Limited and top-of-the line King Ranch. Every Ford Expedition comes with standard seating for eight, except the regular length XL which comes standard with five.

The 2012 Expedition base XL comes standard with 17-inch alloy wheels (18-inch on the EL), foglamps, a roof rack, automatic headlights, keyless entry, heated mirror, air-conditioning, cruise control, cloth upholstery, a six-way power driver seat, a 40/20/40-split second row seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player with rear audio controls. Upgrading to the XLT adds 18-inch alloy wheels to the regular body style, rear parking sensor, a trip computer, power-adjustable pedals, the voice-operated Sync system and an upgrade sound system with steering-wheel mounted controls. The Sport Appearance package adds to the XLT a body-colored grille and black interior trim.

The Limited trim level of 2012 Ford Expedition packs on 20-inch alloy wheels; front parking sensors; driver-side auto-dimming mirror; power-folding mirrors; a power liftgate; a rearview camera; dual-zone automatic climate control; leather upholstery; automatic wippers ; a premium sound-system with subwoofer. The King Ranch edition of Expedition sports features similar to the Limited while adding 20-inch painted alloy wheels, upgraded headlamps, upgraded leather upholstery and wood trim. Many amenities found on upper trim levels can be had as options on the less expensive models.

The 2012 Ford Expedition features an independent multilink rear suspension, which allows each rear wheel to react independently to road impacts to provide a smooth, controlled ride. Expedition also offers an available power liftgate. A push of the button on the key fob or inside the cabin conveniently opens or closes the liftgate, allowing easy loading and unloading. Cargo storage options for 2012 Expedition are enhanced by the clever solution enabled by the second- and third-row seats. The second-row seats are 40/20/40 split bench with standard CenterSlide feature that allows the center section to be moved forward almost 11 inches for easier access from the front-row seats. Third-row seats have an available PowerFold 60/40 split bench by which one or both seatbacks can be lowered flat to the floor with the touch of a button.

Regular-wheelbase models of the 2012 Ford Expedition offer 18.6 cubic feet behind the third row of seats and maximum of 108.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Extended-wheelbase EL trims offer 42.6 cubic feet of space behind the third row of seats and a maximum 130.8 cubic feet behind the first row.

The standard powertrain for the 2012 Ford Expedition is a 5.4-liter V8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. The 5.4-liter V8 engine delivers 310 hp and 365 lb-ft of torque and it is flex-fuel capable, meaning the engine can run on unleaded gasoline E85 ( up to 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline) or any mix of the two. With a wider gear ratio, Expedition’s six-speed automatic transmission has smaller steps between gears than a typical four-speed automatic, giving the customer improved shift quality, faster acceleration and improved fuel economy.

Standard safety features of 2012 Expedition include front-seat side-impact airbags, side curtain airbags, electronic stability system with anti-rollover technology and four-wheel-disc antilock brakes. A trailer-sway control feature is standard and works in conjuction with the electronic stability system to detect trailer movement and appli braking, as well as reduce engine torque to keep the vehicle in control.

Among full-size sport-utilities, the Ford Expedition stands apart with its superior driving comfort and utility package. Ford is right on target with its family adventure concept, and the Ford Expedition is one of the best vehicles for family vacation travel on the American road. It makes an excellent tow vehicle, smooth and stable, with tow capacities in the 9,000-pound range.

says autos.aol.com website about 2012 Ford Expedition.

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2012 Toyota Matrix

Posted: March 19th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Toyota | Leave a comment »

The 2012 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback that can carry up to five people and plenty of cargo. The 2012 Matrix competes with Kia Forte, Mazda3 and Honda Fit. The versatile and sporty Toyota Matrix, wich received a significant refresh for 2011, moves into 2012 continuing with two model grades and two powertrain offerings and available all-wheel drive.

The 2012 Toyota Matrix is available in L (MSRP from $ 18,845) and S ( starting at $ 19,565 MSRP) trim levels. The 2012 Matrix L comes standard with 16-inch steel wheels, heated mirrors, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, cruise control, full power accesories and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player and auxiliary audio jack. The Matrix S adds foglamps, a fold-flat passenger seat, a six-speaker sound system and a 115-volt power outlet.

The second-generation Toyota Matrix displays sport-coupe-inspired styling cues while maintaining impressive interior utility. The result is a sporty, dynamic shape that provides a quiet interior for five people to ride in comfort. Cockpit styling in the Matrix is anchored by a driver-oriented instrument panel and console controls. The Optitron instrument-panel gauges feature bright white lighting and new silver ornamentation, with a large round speedometer mounted in the center and a tachometer to its left.

A choice between two interior color schemes includes dark charcoal or a combination of dark charcoal and ash gray, and a three-spoke steering wheel adds a sporty touch. 2012 Matrix S comes with a leather-trimmed steering wheel that includes spoke-mounted audio controls and hands-free Bluetooth capability. Multiple storage spaces are located throughout the interior, including front and rear door pockets that each holds a 20-ounce plastic bottle.

Available options on the 2012 Matrix grade include a base Sport Package with front and rear underbody spoilers and 17-inch alloy wheels. The Sport Package for Matrix S adds color keyed rear spoiler and a unique S badge. The Premium Package offers a power tilt/slide moonroof, an audio system with six speakers, MP3 playback capability, USB port with iPod connectivity and hands-free phone capability and music streaming via Bluetooth technology.

Powertrain choices of 2012 Toyota Matrix include 1.8-liter and 2.4-liter four-cylinder engines, a five speed manual transmission, and either four- or five-speed automatic transmissions. The all-wheel-drive ( AWD ) 2012 Matrix S is equipped with the 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and the ECT four-speed automatic transmission.

The 2012 Toyota Matrix L is powered by 1.8-liter DOHC engine which produces 132 hp at 6,000 rpm and 128 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. Dual Variable Valve Timing with intelligence (VVT-i) controls valve timing on both the intake and exhaust camshafts to help optimize performance and economy. The 2012 Matrix L has earned an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 26 mpg city and 32 mpg highway with the manual transmission and 25 mpg city/ 32 mpg highway with automatic transmission.

The 2012 Toyota Matrix S exclusively features a 2.4-liter engine that produces 158 hp at 6000 rpm and 162 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. The Matrix S with five-speed manual transmission achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. With the five-speed automatic transmission it earns 21 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. The 2012 Toyota Matrix S AWD is rated by the EPA at 20 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

The 2012 Toyota Matrix continues to feature the standard Toyota Star Safety System which includes Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Traction Control (TRAC), ABS, Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist. All Matrix models are equipped with six standard airbags, including advanced front airbags, front seat-mounted side airbags, and front-and-rear side-curtain airbags.

The edmunds.com website says about 2012 Toyota Matrix:

For about a decade, the Matrix has been a convincingly sporty, reasonably fuel-efficient four-door hatchback with the promise of Toyota reliability.

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The European Car Of The Year is Opel Ampera (Chevrolet Volt)

Posted: March 12th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Car News, Chevrolet, News | Leave a comment »

The Opel Ampera, European cousin of Chevrolet Volt, has been picked as the winner in the annual European Car of the Year awards. Announced at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show, the Opel Ampera was awarded with 330 points by judges while the up! come in second with 281 points and the Focus in third with 256 points. The latest title sees the Chevy Volt’s number of international awards continue to grow, with the car previously tacking the 2011 North American Car of the Year title.

The Opel Ampera ( Chevrolet Volt) has competed with other 35 contenders in this year’s competition.

Opel Ampera at 2012 Geneva Motor Show

Chevrolet Volt (Opel Ampera) is the Car of the Year in Europe

2012 European Car of the Year Opel Ampera

2012 Mazda 2

Posted: March 10th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Mazda | Leave a comment »

The subcompact five-seat Mazda2 is the Mazda’s entry-level model. It is available only as a hatchback and it is one of the most fun-to-drive small cars. The Mazda2 is a fund and stylish addition to the Mazda line-up. This small city car is starting to become more popular because it is easy to drive and easy to park. The major competitors of 2012 Mazda 2 are Honda Fit, Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris and Chevrolet Sonic.

The 2012 Mazda 2 is available in two trim levels: Sport (starting at $14,500 MSRP) and Touring (MSRP from $16,020). The 2012 Mazda 2 Sport comes standard with 15-inch steel wheels, air-conditioning, full power accesories, a tilt steering wheel and a four-speaker sound system with a CD player. The Mazda2 Touring adds 15-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, foglights, a trip computer, cruise control and two additional speakers for the audio system.

The options for either trim level include an auto-dimming rearview mirror and a center console with an armrest.

On the 2012 Mazda 2 review, the experts from cars.com say about this car:

The Mazda2 is a small car that drives like a small car — and that’s a compliment. Some cars feel bigger than they are, which can be good if you also get a sense of strength and solidity. The Mazda2, though, is like a welterweight fighter: all quickness and agility, without sacrificing ride and practicality.

Initially launched in 2007 in Japan, Europe and Australia, the little Mazda 2 was quick to garner enthusiastic acclaim, including ”2008 World Car of the Year”. Making its North American debut last year as a 2011 model, Mazda 2 proved to be as much as success stateside, earning a spot on many “Best Cars” and Top Ten lists.

The exterior design elements of 2012 Mazda 2 include a sporty wedge shape and ready-for-fun front grille that conveys a eager sense of forward motion and deeply sculpted angles in which the body is drawn inward fore and aft of the A-pillars. 2012 Mazda 2 is available in six exterior colors: Liquid Silver, Spirited Green, Brilliant Black, True Red, Crystal White Pearl and Aquatic Blue.

The interior design of 2012 Mazda 2 not only offers immediate operational know-how but further develops the Mazda2′s unique personality, an emotional connection which began from its ground-up exterior design. While subcompact vehicles do not offer the cargo capacity to complete with the likes of minivans and SUVs, claustrophobic crampedness doesn’t have to come standard either. 2012 Mazda 2 offers an efficient 13.3 cubic feet of storage room. With the 60/40 split fold-down rear seats folded flat, that cargo capacity expands to 27.8 cubic feet.

The 2012 Mazda 2 is powered by a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine which produces 100 hp at 6000 rpm and 98 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. A five-speed manual transmission is standard and a four-speed automatic transmission is optional. When equipped with the standard five-speed manual transmission, 2012 Mazda 2 delivers an EPA-rated fuel-economy of 29 mpg city / 35 mpg highway. With the four-speed automatic transmission the 2012 Mazda2 offers an estimated fuel economy of 28 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.

Standard safety features of 2012 Mazda 2 include six-airbags with improved double chamber side airbags, a “crushable” brake pedal assembly, Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children (LATCH), front seat belt pretensioners with force limiters and a Tire Pressure Monitoring system (TPMS). For the 2012 Mazda 2, the New Vehicle Limited Warranty includes three-year/36,000-mile warranty, which covers every part of the vehicle except those to normal wear, a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and a five-year/ unlimited-mileage corrosion warranty.

More about 2012 Mazda 2 you can read on Mazda 2 review by thecarconnection.com website.

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2012 Chevrolet Impala

Posted: March 5th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Chevrolet | Leave a comment »

The 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size front-wheel drive sedan capable of carrying up to six people. The 2012 Impala is a comfortable and convenient car, practical and enjoyable to drive.

This big family sedan competes with other full-size cars like Buick LaCrosse, Chrysler 300, Dodge Charger, Ford Taurus, Hyundai Azera, Toyota Avalon and Volkswagen Passat.

The 2012 Chevrolet Impala is a full-size four-door family sedan offered in three trim levels: LS ( MSRP from $ 25,760 ), LT ( starting at $ 27,285 MSRP) and LTZ ( from $ 30,300). New for 2012 is the 3.6-liter V6 engine and the six-speed automatic transmission. Seating for five people is standard, but an optional front bench seat offered on LS and LT models bumps passenger capacity to six.

Standard features on the 2012 Chevy Impala entry-level LS include 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, automatic headlights, air-conditioning, cruise control, a six-way power driver seat, Bluetooth and six-speaker sound system with a CD player, satellite radio and auxiliary audio-jack. The LT model of 2012 Impala adds 17-inch alloy wheels, remote ignition, a folding rear seat, a rear spoiler, a rear center armrest and a trip computer with compass and outside temperature display.

The top-of-the-line LTZ adds 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, leather upholstery, auto-dimming rearview mirror, heated mirror, heated power front seat and an eight-speaker BOSE premium audio system. Impala LT and LTZ models come with folding rear seat that open up the trunk to the cabin. The trunk is one of the larger ones in this class, at 18.6 cubic feet.

The 2012 Chevrolet Impala presents a clean, pleasing design. It is an attractive car. The big headlamps have a jeweled appearance with three independent lighting units and are smoothly integrated into the front end. The tail lights are nicely integrated as well.

Inside is a roomy cabin. The seats have fairly firm cushions and decent lumbar support compared to previous models. A twin-brow instrument panel wraps around into the doors. Interior materials are a grade above average. The dual-zone climate control system is snap to use, with large, round control knobs and good markings.

The new front-wheel-drive 2012 Chevrolet Impala gets a new 3.6-liter V6 engine that produces 300 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. EPA estimates are a strong 18 mpg city/ 30 mpg highway.

The 2012 Chevrolet Impala’s list of standard safety features includes antilock brakes, traction and stability control, front side airbags, side curtain airbags and more.

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2012 Volvo S60

Posted: March 2nd, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Volvo | Leave a comment »

The all-new 2012 Volvo S60 has an extrovert attitude never before seen in Volvo showrooms. It is also without a doubt the most dynamic Volvo model so far. The redesigned S60 was the latest Volvo to distance the brand from its boxy design of old. The 2012 Volvo S60 is one of the sportiest-looking cars Volvo has ever built and it is also one of the most fun to drive.

Competitors of 2012 Volvo S60 include the Cadillac CTS, Infiniti G37, Acura TL, Audi A4, BMW 3 series and Mercedes-Benz C class.

In its 2012 Volvo S60 review, thecarconnection.com website says:

The 2012 S60 is more rakish and aggressive than any previous Volvo sedan on the outside, with smooth contours and swooping lines matched up with a low, wedgy front and pert tail, and framed with large flashy alloy wheels.

The all-new 2012 Volvo S60 is a midsize luxury sedan available in three trim levels: the entry-level T5 (MSRP from $31,300), mid-grade T6 (starting at $ 38,450 MSRP) and the range-topping S60 R-Design ($ 42,950 MSRP).

The 2012 Volvo S60 T5 comes standard with 17-inch wheels, cruise control, heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power driver seat with memory functions, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, Bluetooth and an eight-speaker sound system with a CD player, HD radio, auxiliary audio jack and USB/iPod audio interface.

The 2012 Volvo S60 T6 adds a more powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive, bigger brakes, sport-tuned suspension, 18-inch wheels, leather upholstery and the auto-dimming rearview mirror. The adaptive bi-xenon headlights, a sunroof and an eight-way power passenger seat are disponibles with the Premium package.

The Volvo S60 R-Design adds more power, unique 18-inch wheels, rear spoiler, sport-tuned suspension, sport seats and the contents of Premium package. The Climate package adds heated front seats, automatic wipers and headlights washers. A rearview camera, a navigation system and a 12-speaker premium surround-sound system are disponibles on Multimedia package.

Like all good Scandinavian design, the S60′s interior is simple and functional. The materials have an upscale quality. The floating center stack, which has storage space carved out underneath it, was trimmed in aluminum and artistic to behold. The center stack is also easy to use. The climate control system has an icon of a person on the center stack that makes warming up the different parts of your body easy.

The 2012 Volvo S60 is the first sedan model on the market with Advanced Stability Control. With a new roll angle sensor, it is possible to identify any skidding tendency at a very early stage. Advanced Stability Control is a great asset in dynamic driving involving considerable lateral forces, thus improving handling and rapid avoidance manoeuvres.

The front-wheel-drive 2012 Volvo S60 T5 gets a 2.5-liter turbocharged 5-cylinder inline engine that produces 250 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque. A six speed automatic transmission is standard on this model. Estimated fuel economy for Volvo S60 T5 is 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.

The 2012 Volvo S60 T6 AWD (all-wheel-drive) gets a 3.0-liter 6-cylinder inline engine that produces 300 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard too. Estimated fuel economy stands at 18 mpg city / 26 mpg highway.

The 2012 Volvo S60 T6 R-Design gets a more powerful version of the same 3.0-liter engine good for 325 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed auto and all-wheel drive are still standard. Fuel economy is identical to T6 model.

Volvo offers a lot of safety features for the 2012 S60. It comes standard with six airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, tire pressuring monitoring system and Volvo’s City Safety System. Optional safety features include a lane departure warning system, adaptive cruise control, front and rear park assist and more.

You can watch and read more about this car on 2012 Volvo S40 review by autoguide.com.

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2012 BMW X3

Posted: February 28th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, BMW | Leave a comment »

The BMW X3 is a small crossover vehicle that offers standard all-wheel-drive along with a good blend of luxury performance. This five-seater combines BMW’s signature driving prowess with the utility of a crossover. The 2012 BMW X3 competes with other luxury crossover like the Acura RDX, Audi Q5, Cadillac SRX, Infiniti EX35 and Volvo XC60.

The 2012 BMW X3 is a luxury SUV available in two trim levels that correspond to the engine: the xDrive28i (starting at $37,100 MSRP) and the xDrive35i (MSRP from $42,700).

Standard features of 2012 BMW X3 xDrive 28i include 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lights, automatic wipers, automatic headlights, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, automatic climate control, eight-way power front seats, cruise control, Bluetooth, BMW’s iDrive electronics interface and a 12-speaker sound system with a CD player, auxiliary audio jack and a USB/iPod interface. The 2012 X3 35i is similar but has 18-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic sunroof, adaptive xenon headlights and wood interior accents.

Options are largely grouped into packages, but several of the items are available separately. The Sport Activity package includes 18-inch (28i) or 19-inch (35i) wheels, sport front seats, a sport steering wheel and a sport transmission with paddle shifters (35i). The Premium package for the 28i includes auto-dimming mirrors, leather upholstery, additional lighting and more storage features. The Premium package for the 35i adds keyless ignition/entry and rear window sunshades. A rearview camera with top view, front and rear parking sensors and a navigation system are disponibles on the Technology package.

The profile of the 2012 BMW X3 is characterized by flared wheel arches and short front and rear overhangs. Three creases in the car’s side add detail to the silhouette with the X3′s signature upper contour line rising steeply from the front wheel arch area, then tapering toward the rear light clusters. This line is echoed by two subtle lines following the contour line above the wheel arches. When compared to its predecessor (pre-2011), the new 2012 BMW X3 is a half-inch taller, 3.36 inches longer, 1.1 inches wider and features a half-inch more ground clearance.

The interior of the 2012 BMW X3 is welcoming, with tasteful surfaces and a tidy arrangement of components. Dark dashboard moldings contrast with lighter lower sections and carpet colors. High-grade wood trim accents are used sparingly on the center console, door cappings and above the glovebox. The view out the windscreen is commanding. Big mirrors provide a good spread of rearward visibility to deal with the inevitable blind spots that occur in cars with vertical D-pillars. A fourth-generation iDrive Multimedia controller keeps control-button proliferation to a minimum, and the dashboard looks tidy and organized.

In a class that puts sporty performance before practicality, the 2012 BMW X3 offers good cargo and passenger space. With the second row in place, the X3 has 27.6 cubic feet of cargo space. With all seats folded, there is 56.6 cubic feet of space.

The BMW Mobile Office system can provide calendar updates while you’re on the road, making it easy to keep the entire family on schedule.

You can also opt for a backseat iPod holder, which attaches an iPad to the back of the front seats, allowing kids in the back to watch videos or play games.

A 3.0-liter 6-cylinder in-line engine powers both 2012 BMW X3 models. The engine in the xDrive28i makes 240 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the turbocharged variant in the xDrive 35i is rated at 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission with manual shift mode is standard on both models, as is all-wheel-drive.

EPA fuel economy stand at 19 mpg city/ 25 mpg highway for BMW X3 28i, while the X3 35i actually achieves 19/26 mpg.

The 2012 BMW X3 comes with standard four-wheel anti-lock brakes, hill descent control and brake fade compensation. Passive safety features include front airbags and front side-impact airbags. The X3 also has a crash sensor that disconects the starter, fuel pump and alternator, unlocks the doors and turns on the hazard and interior lighgts in an accident.

You can read more about this car in 2012 BMW X3 review by automotive.com.

The automobile.com website says about 2012 BMW X3:

This “soft-roader” has become the luxury standard when it comes to family wagons. It combines the off-road performance and horsepower of sport utility vehicles with the size and fuel efficiency of station wagons.

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2012 Audi A8

Posted: February 22nd, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Audi | Leave a comment »

As Audi’s flagship sedan, the 2012 Audi A8 offers all the technology, comfort and performance that buyers expect from a super luxury car. For 2012, the Audi A8 continues to offer excellent hanling, standard all-wheel drive and an opulent, tech-heavy interior. The rivals of A8 are BMW 7 Series, Jaguar XJ, Mercedes-Benz S-Class and Porsche Panamera. For 2012, the Audi A8 comes with a new 500-horsepower 12-cylinder engine.

The 2012 Audi A8 comes in three trims: standard 4.2 (starting at $ 78,750), long-wheelbase 4.2L (MSRP from $ 84,700) and long-wheelbase 6.3L (starting at $ 133,500 MSRP). The numbers indicate whether a V8 (4.2) or W12 (6.3) powers the car. The L versions provide more room for rear seat passengers.

Both Audi A8 4.2 models come standard with 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, Audi Drive Select (allows adjustment of suspension, steering and engine/transmission response), adaptive air suspension, a sunroof, a navigation system, cruise control, Audi’s Multi Media Interface system, leather upholstery, 12-way power front seats, a power-adjustable steering wheel, a power rear sunshade, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, Bluetooth and a Bose Surround-sound audio system with iPod connectivity, a 20 GB music server and a CD changer. The 4.2L adds park assist (with rearview camera), keyless ignition/entry, power operated trunk and power-closing doors.

The A8 6.3L includes all the 4.2L features along with a more powerful engine, 20-inch alloy wheels, panoramic sunroof, dynamic steering, LED headlights, upgraded leather upholstery, power front seats, four-zone automatic climate control, heated rear seats, ventilation and massage function for all seats, a heated steering wheel, rear seat entertainment and Audi Connect with Wi-Fi capability. Option highlights include a solar-powered venting sunroof, various wood accents, a night vision camera and a premium 19-speaker Bang&Olufsen audio system.

There are also several packages available. The Premium package includes 22-way power front seats. The Cold Weather package includes heated steering wheel and rear-seat pass-through (with ski sack). The Rear Seat Comfort package adds power lumbar/recline and ventilation for rear seats, rear vanity mirrors and four-zone climate control.

The new Audi A8 luxury sedan is a technical work of art combining sportiness and progressiveness. Its elegant and powerful body is an aluminum Audi Space Frame (ASF), weighing about 40 percent less than a comparable steel structure. The new full LED headlights, which use light emitting diodes for all light function, are a completely exclusive high-end solution on board the new Audi A8.

The interior of 2012 Audi A8 enchants with new, even lighter lines, uncompromising quality of fit and finish, and extraordinary attention to the smallest of details. The comfort on board is first class – from new, emotionally charged ambient lighting to the luxurious adjustable rear seats.

The 2012 Audi A8 combines a new level of technical intelligence with exemplary and easy operation. When combined with the optional navigation system, its Multi Media Interface MMI includes a pioneering innovation: the MMI touch. This MMI touch system enables the driver to control many functions intuitively; for example the navigation destination can be entered by tracing the letters on the pad with a finger.

The 2012 Audi A8 4.2 and 4.2L models come with a 4.2-liter DOHC V8 engine with FSI direct injection, hydraulic valve lifters and variable intake valve timing. This engine produces 372 horsepower at 6800 rpm and 328 lb-ft of torque. The 2012 Audi A8 6.3L comes with an all new 6.3-liter W12 (4 rows of 3 cylinders) DOHC engine making 500 hp and 463 lb-ft of torque. Both engines are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission that drives all four wheels. Mileage of Audi A8 is estimated at 14 mpg city/ 21 mpg highway for W12 engine and 18/28 MPG for V8 engine.

The quattro all-wheel drive system makes the 2012 Audi A8 feel more surefooted in the corners and not at all cumbersome. In regular driving, it sends about 60 percent of power to the rear wheels. Up to 60 percent of power can be sent to the front wheels when needed. For enthusiasts there is also an available sport differential system that brings an active torque split from left to right as well.

Standard safety equipment for 2012 Audi A8 includes antilock brakes, stability and traction control, full-length side curtain airbags, front- and rear-seat side airbags and active front headrests. More technical details and driving impressions you can read on 2012 Audi A8 review by thecarconnection.com.

2012 A8

V8 engine of 2012 Audi A8

2012 Audi A8

2012 A8 front view

2012 Audi A8

Audi A8 Hybrid

2012 A8 in motion

2012 Audi A8 interior

2012 A8 interior detail

Audi A8 rear-view

A8 trunk picture

Audi A8 Multi Media Interface

Interior of 2012 Audi A8

Audi A8 front seats

Interior detail of Audi A8

LED headlights of Audi A8

Audi A8

Audi A8 W12 engine

Audi A8 front image

A8 dashboard

New A8

Subaru Tribeca 2012

Posted: February 14th, 2012 | Author: bestcarsadmin | Filed under: 2012 New Car Models, Subaru | Leave a comment »

The 2012 Tribeca is Subaru’s largest model. Well equipped and with seating for seven it continues to offer drivers a safe comfortable ride in any kind of road condition or weather.

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca is a seven-passenger midsize crossover SUV that’s offered in Premium (at $ 30,595), Limited (at $ 32,595) and Touring (at $35,895) trim levels. Standard features on the Premium model of 2012 Tribeca include 18-inch alloy wheels, foglamps, heated mirrors, rear privacy glass, cruise control, cloth upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, heated power front seats, 40/20/40-split second-row seats, 50/50-split third-row seats and a six-speaker sound system with a CD player and an auxiliary audio jack.

The Subaru Tribeca Limited adds leather upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity, driver seat memory functions and a 10-speaker sound system with a six-CD changer and satellite radio. The Moonroof package adds a sunroof, roof rails and a rearview camera. The Touring adds a monotone exterior paint scheme, HID headlights, an auto-dimming rearview mirror and the moonroof package.

An optional touch-screen GPS navigation system available for Tribeca Limited and Touring models incorporates a Rear Vision Camera and 7-inch LCD display. When the driver moves the transmission shift handle into reverse, the center color LCD display will show what the camera lens can detect within its field of vision behind the vehicle. The screen view features distance/width guidelines to assist the driver in backing up the vehicle.

The 2012 Tribeca‘s twin cockpit interior design features a flowing, sculpted dash and center console design. Aluminum-look trim highlights the sculpted shapes of the dashboard. Electroluminescent dials and subtle ambient interior footwell lighting provide a sophisticated touch. The center console is anchored by an information center that groups the readouts for the audio system, clock, fuel economy and outside temperature. The second row seat features a tilt-and-slide control on both sides and an assist spring that reduces the effort needed to slide the second row seat. Molded assist grab handles on the lower C-pillar ease passenger step-in to the third row. The standard 50/50 split fold-down third-row seat features integral headrests.

The optional rear-seat entertainment system for the Limited and Touring trim lines consists of a nine-inch wide-screen format LCD screen and a DVD player featuring remote inputs for video games and a video camera. The package includes two sets of wireless headphones an a wireless remote control.

The 2012 Subaru Tribeca is powered by a 3.6-liter six-cylinder Boxer engine that produces 256 horsepower and 247 pound-feet of torque. This Subarus’ Boxer is engineered to produce powerful low-end torque and its use of regular-grade fuel helps reduce operating costs. Active Valve Control System (AVCS) variable valve timing is employed on both the intake and exhaust camshafts. A five-speed automatic with a manual shift mode is the only transmission offered. The EPA rates all models of 2012 Subaru Tribeca at 16 mpg city and 18 mpg highway.

Every 2012 Tribeca features an all-wheel-drive system that sends 55 percent of the power to the rear wheels under normal driving conditions. Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive provide excellent balance thanks to the longitudinally mounted Boxer engine and the way power flows from it through the transmission and to the rear differential along a straight, near-horizontal path. In the Tribeca, Subaru integrated its all-wheel drive technology with a stability system and 4-wheel traction control to form one of the industry’s most effective dynamic handling systems.

Like the rest of Subaru’s current lineup, the 2012 Tribeca is a Top Safety Pick at the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It scores the agency’s best rating in front-, rear- and side-impact crash tests, as well as in a roof-strength test. The 2012 Subaru Tribeca is build around the Ring-Shaped Reinforcement Frame structure proven in Subaru models for over a decade. The 2012 Tribeca is equipped with occupant-sensing, dual-stage driver and passenger airbags, front seat-mounted side impact airbags, standard curtain side airbags, ABS, brake assist and so on.

You can find more details on 2012 Subaru Tribeca review by Edmunds.com