March 2015 | Articles at Cars, New Cars, Reviews, Videos, News and Photos

2016 Acura ILX Review

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The Acura ILX has, up until now, required the use of a lot of qualifiers. That’s because while this compact entry-luxury sedan was quite well designed—and it could be quite appealing—the lineup has consisted of a mishmash of models, not all of them all that sporty or luxurious.<br />
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That changes for the 2016 model year, for which Acura has essentially rebooted the ILX—dropping the surplus of powertrain variants and focusing this small sedan under one sporty combination, with more of an underlying performance-car flavor throughout.

The underperforming ILX Hybrid model was already dropped going into the 2015 model year. Now for 2016, the 2.0-liter base engine is also dropped, and the ILX essentially gets the same four-cylinder and dual-clutch setup as Acura’s next-larger model, the front-wheel-drive TLX. The power rating stays the same as the current model, at 201 hp, yet the engine is the latest direct-injection i-VTEC unit, making 180 pound-feet of torque (up 10 lb-ft over the previous 2.4-liter). What that should result in is a very strong-performing, pleasant-driving sporty sedan. The eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox uses a torque converter for low-speed smoothness, yet its shifts are super-quick during high-performance driving, with rev-matched downshifts and good driver control through steering-wheel shift paddles.<br />
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While the manual gearbox has been dropped completely from the ILX lineup, and we won’t applaud that, we will say that the dual-clutch transmission is superb and a near-perfect pairing of smoothness and responsiveness in the TLX.

Visually, there’s not all that much changed. The 2016 Acura ILX gets a slight refresh in front and in back. Jewel Eye LED lamps have been subbed in, as well as some upgraded interior materials, larger wheels and tires, and improved connectivity features. Stylistically, we’ve found that the ILX has a nice balance between crisp and fluid, edgy and smooth—a more youthful take on a compact luxury car than you'll find elsewhere in the segment, and handsome if not lust-inducing. Inside, it's a pleasant place to travel, looking like a typical Acura: edgy curves, contoured surfaces, and easy-to-read gauges.<br />
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The interior layout of the ILX has been stellar all along, so that part of it needed no kind of rehab either. It’s comfortable and spacious—surprisingly so in the rear seats, with enough room even for taller adults to fit comfortably. Ergonomically, things are laid out very well, and it’s easy to figure out the controls without taking your eyes off the road (well, except for infotainment systems, which remain a sore point). There’s solid-feeling construction throughout, with quality materials, and fit and finish is very good. Acura says that cabin refinement and quietness has been improved for 2016, too, with thicker glass and noise-attenuating wheels; and that’s in addition to the smart active noise cancellation system Acura made standard for the lineup last year.

The ILX remains based on the Honda Civic, although the current Civic has an excellent reputation for safety and occupant protection.<br />
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Acura notes that it’s targeted a ‘good’ result in the IIHS small overlap test and an IIHS Top Safety Pick Plus rating, although no crash test results are yet available. The ILX gets the excellent LaneWatch system that shows a wide-angle camera view alongside and behind the vehicle, and a new AcuraWatch safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, road departure mitigation, and enhanced collision mitigation braking with pedestrian sensing. There’s also a blind-spot system with rear cross-traffic monitoring for much of the lineup.

There are now a total of six 2016 Acura ILX packages, including standard ILX, Premium, Technology Plus, A-Spec, A-Spec Premium, and A-Spec Technology Plus.<br />
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A-Spec models are the sporty versions in the lineup, and at the Premium level, the ILX gets a two-position driver’s seat memory, plus a power passenger seat, universal garage-door opener, and the dual-screen setup. The Premium grade model has, for the first time, a navigation system based on a connected iPhone, with the proper AcuraLink app, and Premium models and above get satellite radio and HD Radio. Tech models add the AcuraWatch suite plus embedded navigation and a reconfigurable display.</div>

The Acura ILX has, up until now, required the use of a lot of qualifiers. That’s because while this compact entry-luxury sedan was quite we...

2015 Jeep Cherokee Review

06:00 Unknown 0

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The 2015 Jeep Cherokee entered the red-hot market for compact SUVs last year at just the right time, but it's got big shoes to fill nonetheless. The original Jeep Cherokee launched in 1986 set the bar for sport-utility vehicles that could be used as family transport, and inspired a host of competitors, including the wildly successful Ford Explorer of 1990.<br />
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But times have changed over three decades, and what used to be truck-based SUVs are now "crossover utility vehicles" built on car underpinnings. They're more comfortable, more fuel-efficient, and much closer in spirit to passenger cars--but taller and with all-wheel drive as a required option. They're also nowhere near as simple and straightforward as the original Cherokee of yore.

Today, the Jeep Cherokee is meant to be a mainstream choice for family duty--and a direct competitor to established crossovers that include the Ford Escape, Honda CR-V, Subaru Forester, and Toyota RAV4. It's a clean break from the Jeep Liberty it replaced, and the changes go far beyond the model name. It's no longer based on truck-like rear-wheel-drive mechanicals, and its styling is less blunt and bluff than the squared-off Liberty.<br />
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The 2015 Cherokee aspires to bridge the on- and off-road worlds. It may be the first compact SUV to do both equally well: a city-friendly crossover stuffed with the heart of a Trail Rated Jeep. It's got all the Jeep brand essentials--ruggedness and a general zest for things outdoorsy--while remaining perfectly suitable for families that want AWD security and a dash of toughness.

But not everyone is going to be a fan of the exterior. One approach would have been to find a middle ground among Jeep's heritage, contemporary crossovers, and an edgy new direction. But the actual Cherokee leads off with a startling variation on the Jeep face, and then gives up by the time it gets to the windshield. In other words, its roles as a Liberty replacement, Dart derivative, and Compass mea culpa still aren't totally reconciled in the design.<br />
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The front end splits its headlamps and underplays the grille—the one design detail that connotes Jeep no matter where it's seen, around the world. Those are unforgivable but reworkable flaws—and frankly, quirks that some will like. The rest of the body impresses as warmed-over leftovers, with a heavy reliance on crossover fallbacks in glass area and fender sculpting—rehashed Hyundai, inherited Grand Cherokee. The cabin does paramedic duty here, healing up all that poorly thought-out stretching with some palliative shapes and some truly nice finishes and Easter-egg touches (consider it a challenge to find all the hidden Jeeps inside).
The Cherokee really sizes right in with models that would be called compacts in the U.S., like the CR-V, Forester, and Escape. Jeep might call it a mid-sizer, but it's right in with those models. There’s no third-row seat, but it's a relatively roomy five-seater, with a back seat that’s suitable for adults—or even asking three to sit across for shorter distances--but the jutting front headrests might enforce a slouching position that robs some of that rear-seat space.<br />
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The second row slides fore and aft to choose between legroom and cargo space, and there’s a handy organizer for the more retentive fans.

You have a choice between a four-cylinder engine and a V-6—which helps it stand out in a class that includes several models that have gone all-four-cylinder. The standard 184-horsepower, 2.4-liter in-line four is plenty strong for quick acceleration (as well as smooth and quiet for this class), provided there isn't too much weight aboard. The other  new 3.2-liter V-6 makes 271 hp and 239 lb-ft of torque; it's torquey and generally happy with whatever work you throw its way. With the V-6 and a Trailer Tow Package, the Cherokee can pull 4,500 pounds. No matter which version, the Cherokee has fairly numb but accurate steering, with a well-tuned and well-damped ride.

The Cherokee also sports a new ZF nine-speed automatic, with a lower first gear for quick takeoffs, plus some tall upper gears for good mileage on the highway.<br />
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The top figure of 31 mpg highway isn't class-leading, but we've seen close to it in real-world conditions; 4WD models post a few mpg lower. One thing that should help improve the mileage of V-6 models -- in real-world stop-and-go driving, if not in official EPA ratings -- is the introduction of engine stop-start (ESS) in all 2015 Cherokee V-6s.

Sport, Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk editions are offered, with each model serving a different kind of buyer. Sport and Latitude models appeal to cost- and value-conscious families, while Limited models are the luxurious flagships of the lineup and Trailhawk models are ready for the trail. Jeep's Trail-Rated badge applies to the Trailhawk, and it gets a one-inch lift, unique front and rear fascias, an Active Drive Lock and locking rear differential, added skid plates, and red tow hooks. There are several different four-wheel drive systems, including Active Drive I, and Active Drive II (adding a dual-range transfer case). All models with 4WD have the Selec-Terrain system, with separate ’smart’ modes for Snow, Sport, Sand/Mud, and Rock, and in low-range models with four-cylinder engines, its crawl ratio is an astonishingly good 56:1.<br />
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 The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has rated the Cherokee at four stars overall, a score it earns in all but side-impact tests -- where it's given five stars. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gives it good scores on all tests, save for a small-overlap test not yet performed. The Cherokee offers a number of sophisticated active-safety and convenience features that are still relatively rare in this mainstream class -- including available adaptive cruise control that can bring it to a full stop if an impending collision is detected; optional lane-departure and forward-collision warning systems are also an option; and blind-spot monitors and parking sensors that can also trigger the vehicle to a full stop at low speeds, if obstacles are detected.

For 2015 Jeep has already taken the Cherokee's safety kit and improved it in many respects. Latitude and Trailhawk models now include a ParkView backup camera plus automatic headlamps. And on Latitude, Limited, and Trailhawk models, there's a new package that combines Blind-spot Monitoring, Rear Cross-Path Detection, ParkSense rear park assist, and signal mirrors with courtesy lamps.<br />
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About the only thing missing in the Cherokee's safety feature set is a clever surround-view camera system, which would be a boon for off-road use.

The 2015 Cherokee also offers more options than you'll find in most other affordable crossovers -- if you're willing to spend extra, of course. Highlights include a CommandView panoramic sunroof and Sky Slider roof, memory heated/ventilated seats, and soft Nappa leather upholstery with ventilated front seats in the top Limited model. Infotainment systems include 8.4-inch Uconnect media center audio-streaming app connectivity (Pandora and Slacker, among others); and top models include a full-color reconfigurable LED instrument cluster.</div>

Jeep News Cars 2015 Jeep Cherokee Review

The 2015 Jeep Cherokee entered the red-hot market for compact SUVs last year at just the right time, but it's got big shoes to fill non...

2016 Ford Explorer Photos

03:24 Unknown 0

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Cars Photos 2016 Ford Explorer Photos

2016 Ford Explorer Photos

Porsche updates its popular Cayenne SUV by replacing the old V8 block with a new twin-turbocharged V6 unit in the S variant

02:51 Unknown 0

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Porsche updates its popular Cayenne SUV by replacing the old V8 block with a new twin-turbocharged V6 unit in the S variant.<br />
 
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Turbocharging has become a motoring byword, whereby the majority of carmakers are converging on this 'route' to meet increasingly stringent emissions standards.

Porsche is no stranger to turbocharging. The Stuttgart sports carmaker is in fact one of the first few in the industry to adopt force induction in their production models, such as the first generation of the iconic 911 Turbo back in 1975.<br />
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The Cayenne's lightly reworked front end now looks slightly more aggressive, and bears a closer resemblance to its smaller brother, the Macan. In fact, when viewed from afar, both SUVs can be mistaken for each other. Thankfully, there're tiny details to help distinguish this newer, bigger brother, such as the four-point rear brake lamps, which create a unique and characterful light signature - especially at night.<br />
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Four decades on, Porsche has introduced turbocharging to almost all of its models, including the Cayenne - a polarising SUV that has raised brows (of purists) as much as it boosted profits for the sports carmaker.<br />
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 And now, in a highly anticipated move, Porsche has replaced the Cayenne S' naturally aspirated V8 with a new, in-house developed twin-turbocharged V6 unit.

Up close and Personal

Less extensive than the new powertrain is what Porsche has done to the Cayenne's exterior. In fact, it's almost hard to spot what has changed in this 2015 model.</div>
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Articles Porsche updates its popular Cayenne SUV by replacing the old V8 block with a new twin-turbocharged V6 unit in the S variant

Porsche updates its popular Cayenne SUV by replacing the old V8 block with a new twin-turbocharged V6 unit in the S variant. Turbochar...

2015 Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon Miss Five-Star Safety Ratings

02:15 Unknown 0

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GM’s new mid-size pickups, the 2015 GMC Canyon and 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, offer more available safety features than rival models like the Toyota Tacoma and Nissan Frontier.<br />
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 But do they have above-and-beyond occupant protection? Some results have been released by the federal government, and while not complete, they’re already indicating that there’s some room for improvement.

In New Car Assessment Program (NCAP) crash-test ratings for the 2015 Canyon and Colorado, both models have earned four-star overall ratings.

That’s in their Extended Cab layouts, which are expected to be somewhat more popular than the Crew Cab body styles. As such, the Colorado and Canyon earn four stars in the frontal crash category and five stars in side impact—figuring to a four-star overall rating. These models earn three stars in the rollover category, due to their high center of mass (although they didn’t tip in the dynamic portion of the test).

Federal crash-test results aren’t yet out for the Canyon or Colorado in Crew Cab form, where they include two full-size, front-hinged rear doors and much more usable back-seat space. Results could be quite different for that body style.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) also hasn’t yet released crash-test results for the Colorado or Canyon yet—except for moderate frontal impact, where they’ve already been given a ‘good’ score.

The Colorado and Canyon are the first trucks in their class to offer potentially accident-avoiding active-safety systems—although the IIHS only gives the available Forward Collision Alert system (part of a Safety Package) its ‘basic’ rating for front crash prevention, an indication that this system warns of a potential hazard but doesn’t brake the vehicle.

See our full review on the 2015 GMC Canyon and 2015 Chevrolet Colorado for more on these vehicles’ features, performance, and a lot more.</div>
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News 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, GMC Canyon Miss Five-Star Safety Ratings

GM’s new mid-size pickups, the 2015 GMC Canyon and 2015 Chevrolet Colorado, offer more available safety features than rival models like the...

2015 BMW X3 - Review

02:00 Unknown 0

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The BMW X3 might not have the heady enthusiast reputation of the esteemed 3-Series sport sedan, or the sexier shape of the upcoming (and closely related) X4, but it adds up to what makes sense for a lot of image-conscious families: styling that's smart and suave; a versatile layout; responsive road performance; and impressive fuel efficiency.<br />
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Altogether it's one of the best picks in its class, all considered, and for 2015 the X3 gets a mid-cycle refresh that brings a set of significant changes, as well as some new variants in the model lineup, while for the most part preserving all the fundamentals.

Lean, pert, and graceful are still the best ways to describe the 2015 BMW X3, which eschews the rugged themes so typical in this class and instead looks like a tall sport wagon. There's enough in common visually with the larger X5, although the X3 keeps to its own proportions that better match its more compact size.

This year as part of a light refresh the X3 gets new twin-circular headlights (with optional LED lamps, plus a more flamboyant version of the BMW kidney grille, exterior mirrors with integrated signal lamps, and some other minor changes to the front and rear appearance. Inside, the X3 is elegant but soft, calming, and decluttered--actually blending a driver-centric cockpit feel with the brand's warmer interior look.<br />
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This year brings some more chrome and brightwork, plus high-gloss black trim.

Headlining the changes is the availability of a new xDrive28d model, packing BMW's punchy 2.0-liter TwinPower turbocharged diesel four-cylinder. Rated at 180 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque (with maximum twist available from just 1,750 rpm), the diesel X3 can hit 60 mph in under eight seconds, and will likely score well on EPA fuel mileage tests.

Otherwise, the 2015 BMW X3 family continues with its all-turbocharged engine lineup, including the new TwinPower four-cylinder that makes 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. It's the perkiest and most V-6-like of the current crop of German turbo fours, and moves the X3 with no hesitation, foot to the floor. New this year is a rear-wheel-drive sDrive28i model, for those in warmer-weather climates, that should be even a bit more spirited for the lack of all-wheel-drive weight. With the xDrive35i, you get a 300-hp, 300 lb-ft<br />
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TwinPower six that sizzles to a 60-mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds, and to a top speed of 150 mph. As we've noted in repeated drives of various X3 variants, it's all a little disconcerting how agile and athletic this vehicle can feel—because the seating height is so tall, yet it lacks the squat, nosedive, and excess motions that are typical in this vehicle class.

All X3 versions except for that base sDrive28i come with BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system, which splits power delivery 40/60 percent. It sends 60 percent of torque to the rear wheels in normal driving but can flex to send 100 percent to the rear; we've found it is especially good for maintaining traction and poise when the road surface is slippery.

At about 183 inches long and 74 inches wide, with a wheelbase of 110.6 inches, the X3 has the sensible parking footprint of a compact car, while the added height gives it usefulness as an all-purpose family vehicle. It's sized in the vicinity of models like the Mercedes-Benz GLK, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, and Cadillac SRX.

If the amount of back-seat space, cargo space, and overall versatility are things that truly matter, you'll find that the 2015 BMW X3 makes a lot of sense. With seating for five, the X3 has a large 19-cubic-foot rear storage area that swells to 56.6 cubic feet when the rear seats are folded down.<br />
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The rear seats now all have a ski pass-through and 40:20:40 segments for better flexibility and seatback folding. In back, there's space carved out for feet, under the front seat, and head room soars. We recommend the sport seats in front for their extendable thigh bolsters and more aggressive side bolstering; they may feel firmer at first but they're better in long-distance support. And throughout the cabin, BMW has paid close attention to the details. Additionally, 2015 brings new extendable sunshades to the cabin, as well as a sliding cover for the center console plus redesigned cupholders.

New colors are available in the 2015 X3 inside and out, but it's the new xLine and M Sport packages that are some of the most noteworthy additions to the lineup. The xLine offering adds metallic inserts to the bumpers, satin aluminum side accents to the air intakes, and simulated skid plates at the front and rear, as well as extra leather upholstery variations, unique interior trim, and 19-inch alloy wheels.<br />
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The M Sport gets a unique aerodynamic package, high-gloss Shadow Line trim, a choice of six paint finishes, and two exclusive 19-inch or 20-inch alloy wheel options; the interior of the X3 M Sport gets an Anthracite roof liner, sport seats, and other M-bred touches to sport up the look and feel.

For 2015, BMW has significantly improved the X3's active-safety and connectivity feature set. The iDrive controller now has touchpad functionality, allowing you to input characters for destination or phonebook entry by tracing characters, and the long list of available features includes a Parking Assistant, the full-color BMW Head-Up Display, Active Driving Assistant with ACC Stop & Go, Lane Departure Warning, Pedestrian Warning, City Collision Mitigation, and Frontal Collision Warning.</div>
</div>

BMW Used Cars 2015 BMW X3 - Review

The BMW X3 might not have the heady enthusiast reputation of the esteemed 3-Series sport sedan, or the sexier shape of the upcoming (and c...

2015 Toyota Avalon

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The 2015 Toyota Avalon builds on the rolling-couch philosophy now abandoned by Buick's larger cars; yet it's a surprisingly satisfying car to drive.

No, it's not sporty looking; and it doesn't beg you to go faster; but it does have comfort down, in some ways mimicking a Lexus for less money.<br />
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 The Avalon now duels with the equally impressive Chevy Impala for our attention. And with strong competition from the likes of the Kia Cadenza, Hyundai Azera, and Ford Taurus, there's plenty of choice here. It looks interesting, and it feels more lively, steering it in a more compelling direction with a visually dramatic interior and a full dose of high-tech safety equipment. With its 2013 redesign, the Avalon was given a wider focus, with the intention of expanding its appeal to a somewhat younger (40- to 60-year-old) crowd. So features no longer are limited to power accessories and finer materials; you can now get some of the most advanced in-car interfaces, too.

Toyota took the latest Avalon's design in a new direction, away from the ubiquitous Camry and even the company's more luxurious but staid Lexus designs. Instead, it has a look all its own, with a swoopy roofline, flared-out rear fenders, and an almost hatchback look to the rear glass that all give it presence where there was none to be had in previous generations.<br />
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 Inside is another surprise, a thoroughly modern instrument-panel layout, and its flush, capacitive (touch-based) dash switches—a feature that cleans up the look, and does away with physical buttons. Cabin materials are superb, with nice, matching grains and surfaces, and also a full league above those in the smaller Camry.

The 2015 Avalon is offered with two different powertrains. V-6 models, with a strong, smooth 268-horsepower, 3.5-liter, are still expected to make up most sales; but it's the Avalon Hybrid that seems the most compelling, not only for its surprisingly responsive performance, but for a level of refinement that might even fool some traditional Avalon shoppers. With a net of 200 horsepower from its lean Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder, teamed with nickel-metal-hydride batteries and two motors tucked in the transaxle, the Avalon Hybrid can get to 60 mph in just (conservatively) 8.2 seconds.<br />
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 Take a look at the window sticker of the Hybrid, though—a phenomenal 40 mpg city, 39 highway (40 Combined)—and you might be willing to deal with a little less power.

The surprise is that you get nearly the same driving experience with the Hybrid. Both powertrains are quicker and more responsive than the outgoing model's lone V-6, and this latest Avalon feels more composed and refined. We wouldn't call it sporty, but it's supremely capable and controllable in a way that the Avalon hasn't been in the past. There's power hen you need it, and a nice ride all the time.

The Avalon feels extremely roomy, modern and luxurious, with top-notch materials, thoughtful details and comfortable seats. The front seats could use a little more lateral support, but they're supportive for the back and upholstered in impressive, supple leather, with real stitching—and ventilated premium leather in Limited models. The back seats are among the best we've sampled in a larger sedan—contoured well for adults and with relatively long lower cushions to provide thigh support. The Avalon gets a 16-cubic-foot trunk, and with a flat floor and wide opening, you can fit a lot of grocery bags. Hybrid models have a slightly smaller 14-cubic-foot trunk, but the lost space is a small sacrifice for the efficiency gains.

The Avalon offers a strong list of safety features, including separate rear side-thorax airbags and front knee bags, and crash-test ratings have been almost perfect across the board.<br />
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A Rear Cross Traffic Alert system, which uses sensors in the rear quarter panels to help detect vehicles as they approach from the side and behind the vehicle, is very effective for those who need to back up with restricted views. All models come with a backup camera system, while a Blind Spot Monitor is now standard on the Avalon XLE Touring and Avalon Hybrid XLE Touring models as of 2015.

All Avalons come well-equipped with plenty of comfort features, while the top-of-the-line Limited models are optioned up like a Lexus. Top Limited models cost around $40k but are luxury vehicles by the equipment list, with all the safety systems, perforated leather upholstery, heated-and-ventilated front seats, heated rear seats, three-zone automatic climate control, a rear sunshade, 785-watt JBL Audio, HID headlamps, and LED daytime running lamps.<br />
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Add the Tech Package, with Adaptive Cruise Control, a Pre-Collision System, and Automatic High Beams.

As mentioned above, the Hybrid model is the fuel-economy leader of the lineup. The V-6 is no slouch itself, returning 21 mpg in city driving and 31 on the highway.Which one is right for you will depend on the amount and type of driving you do, of course, but the Hybrid isn't much of an extra charge, and we think you can live with its modest power pretty easily.

Other changes for 2015 include the addition of a Touring Sport Edition—basically an appearance package with a black interior and blue interior, 18-inch wheels, HID headlights—thinned out chrome trim for the interior, and paddle shifters and the different drive modes (Sport, Normal, Eco) are now standard on all V-6 models.</div>
</div>

News Cars Toyota 2015 Toyota Avalon

The 2015 Toyota Avalon builds on the rolling-couch philosophy now abandoned by Buick's larger cars; yet it's a surprisingly satisf...

2016 Toyota Corolla - Review

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Toyota 2016 Toyota Corolla - Review

2016 Toyota Corolla - Review Our review of the 2016 Toyota Corolla is coming soon. You can sign up to receive email updates any time we...

Nissan Altima Vs. Volkswagen Passat: Compare Cars

01:00 Unknown 0

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Family-sedan shoppers no longer have just a few choices; these days it's not just a Camry-versus-Accord world. Look to the latest Hyundai Sonata, Kia Optima, Ford Fusion, Chevrolet Malibu, Subaru Legacy, Chrysler 200, and Mazda 6, and you'll see a full slate of serious contenders, all with slightly different personalities.</div>
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Two mid-size sedans, the Nissan Altima and Volkswagen Passat, have placed big bets on excellent fuel economy as a selling point, along with completely revamped style and features.</div>
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So how do they stack up?</div>
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The answer is that it's a close race, and depending on how highly you value miles per gallon and spare design, it could go the other way. By our numeric ratings, the Altima ekes out a win--narrowly--thanks to its superior base drivetrain and more widespread luxury features, though the Passat's optional diesel, its immense back seat, and its excellent safety scores bring it within a few tenths of its Tennessee-built neighbor.</div>
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The Altima's sleek looks mimic those of the more expensive Infiniti range, and the interior's never looked so refined, or been so quiet. The Passat? It's very spare and neatly organized, if a little plain to some. It promises a timeless appeal, and it leaves unnecessary detail off its fenders and its dash to that end.</div>
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Nissan's four-cylinder engine is smooth and powerful enough in the new Altima, and though the continuously variable transmission isn't a favorite, it's been thoroughly re-engineered. It doesn't seem sluggish to respond any more--and that helps the base Altima deliver an EPA-rated 38 mpg highway with reasonably spirited performance.</div>
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The Passat's standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a lovely boost over the former five-cylinder. We still recommend a step up to the turbodiesel Passat TDI, which carries a significant price premium over the base car. You'll spend a few thousand more for the excellent powertrain, but you'll be rewarded with 44-mpg highway economy. Both the Altima and Passat offer an optional V-6 that many mainstream shoppers will pass on, since the high-economy models are so efficient and so effective.</div>
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Both the Altima and Passat have good handling for the class. The Passat's much more firm in steering feel and ride damping; the Altima's softened up a lot with this redesign, but it's still one of the more precise-handling sedans in the segment.</div>
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Comfort and quality in either four-door are excellent. The Passat's firm seats come in synthetic leather or cloth, and interior room is vast, in front or back, with or without the available sunroof. The Altima's a bit smaller but still quite spacious; its front seats are the best we've tried in family cars, and the rear bench has good support, too. The high quality of materials in the Altima gets our nod over the nicely fitted Passat, primarily because the extra sound damping in the Nissan makes it much quieter at speed.</div>
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Both models get Top Safety Pick status—ranking them in the top tier from the IIHS and achieving top 'good' scores in all area, except the new small-overlap frontal impact test, where they both are rated 'acceptable.' And from the federal government, they both earn five stars overall. The Altima offers a standard rearview camera; it's an option on the base Passat.</div>
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The Altima outranks the Passat for convenience and luxury features, too. Bluetooth is standard, with audio streaming and voice-to-text translation. A USB port and satellite radio are available, and so is a new navigation system with a larger LCD touchscreen. The Passat offers many of those features, but is packaged in such a way that some buyers may feel underserved. Want a base Passat TDI with cloth seats, satellite radio and a USB port? It doesn't exist.</div>
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The bottom line? Both the Altima and Passat are excellent alternatives to our favorite family sedans--the Legacy, the Fusion, and the Accord. These challengers promise huge driving distances on a single tank of fuel, with handsome styling, above-average handling and exceptional room. The Altima has an advantage with its richer features list, the Passat with its stand-apart turbodiesel offering. With either the four-cylinder Altima or the Passat TDI, you'll find yourself behind the wheel of a capable four-door without many obvious weaknesses.</div>
</div>

News Nissan Altima Vs. Volkswagen Passat: Compare Cars

Family-sedan shoppers no longer have just a few choices; these days it's not just a Camry-versus-Accord world. Look to the latest Hyun...

2016 Ford Fusion - Review

00:55 Unknown 0

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2016 Ford Fusion - Review</div>
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The 2016 Ford Fusion is proof that good design and family-friendly intentions aren't always mutually exclusive. It remains one of the most attractive vehicles in its segment, and it's quite spacious, comfortable, and full-featured. </div>
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Even two years after its redesign, none but the Mazda 6 carry the same kind of daring image that you find in the mid-size Ford Fusion. It's handsome and athletic in appearance, high-tech inside, and relatively fuel-efficient—making it an incredibly compelling consideration for the mid-size sedan shopper. That's why we named it our 2013 Best Car to Buy.</div>
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For this model year, the Fusion sees a handful of new standard and optional features, as well as an available Terra Cotta style package for SE and Titanium model interiors. One feature we loved—its manual transmission option—has been deleted.</div>
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Whether you choose to look at each individual detail or the sum of its parts, the Fusion's design is a standout for sedan styling at any price. The looks is half-Hyundai, Half-Aston Martin, thanks to its hexagonal grille, and we see the rakish roofline of the Audi A7 in its rear quarters. In profile, it's 100 percent Ford, though–falling in nicely with the brand's other vehicles. The interior blends excellent materials with advanced technologies, all of which are controlled from its tablet-like center console.</div>
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The Fusion's cabin isn't camped by the sexy silhouette, either. It's a little longer overall than before, with a much longer wheelbase, which adds up to better legroom all around. Thinner and firmer front seats also help bring a lot more back-seat space; and even the base manual front seats are quite comfortable and supportive.</div>
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 Headroom's great, provided you avoid the optional sunroof. And overall this is an interior that lends a feeling of quality, with good materials everywhere you look (and feel), great noise damping and vibration quelling, and satisfying sounds as you open and close doors. The trunk is 16 cubic feet, big for the class, and the Fusion has ample storage all around the cabin, with a stow space under the center stack, bottle holders in the doors, and a decently sized glovebox.The safety assessment here is superb. Five-star overall ratings from the federal government plus IIHS Top Safety Pick status, as well as safety features like front knee airbags and standard Bluetooth hands-free all combine to give you a lot of reassurance. And for 2015, the inflatable rear seatbelt system that's been offered on some of Ford's crossovers is now available on the Fusion.</div>
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The base-level engine, a 178-horsepower, 2.5-liter four-cylinder, doesn't come close to performing as well as the rakish design suggests, but it's adequate with the six-speed automatic. If we wanted the performance of a V-6, essentially, we'd head straight for the 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbo four, with its 240 hp and 270 lb-ft of torque. It's quick to rev, and the automatic's shifts click quickly via paddle controls. In the middle is a 1.5-liter turbo four, coupled to an automatic transmission. The former manual transmission model was one of our favorites, and kind of a loner in this segment--which explains why it's been dropped.</div>
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 Even in its heaviest form, at about 3,700 pounds with the available all-wheel drive, the Fusion is quite light for this class, and with well-tuned steering and a taut yet absorbent feel, it has firm, flat, reassuring cornering that's not to the detriment of ride quality, combined with a nimble, eager feeling that's missing from most mid-size sedans--except for the latest Mazda 6. Of note for 2015 is a new performance tire option with summer-only rubber.</div>
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Fully loaded, the Fusion fits just under $40,000, but some of the best builds--with the smaller EcoBoost engine--should slot just under $30,000. For that, you'll get navigation, blind-spot monitors, leather seats, a rearview and rear parking sensors. Even the base car includes cruise control; the usual power features; a CD player and an auxiliary jack; cloth seats; tilt/telescoping steering; and steering-wheel audio and phone controls. Power front seats, leather upholstery, and a navigation system are options, as are all-wheel drive and a suite of safety features like lane-keeping assist and active park assist.</div>
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Ford 2016 Ford Fusion - Review

2016 Ford Fusion - Review The 2016 Ford Fusion is proof that good design and family-friendly intentions aren't always mutually exclu...

2015 BMW 2-Series - Review

10:23 Unknown 0

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2015 BMW 2-Series - Review</div>
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The 2015 BMW 2-Series is a well-rounded luxury sports coupe with looks, handling, features, and speed that belie its entry-level positioning.Just last year, the BMW 2-Series replaced the 1-Series Coupe, keeping its fundamental place in the automaker's lineup but bringing improved styling, better handling, and upgraded size and materials. And now, for 2015, there's more important news for the lineup: a convertible body style and all-wheel drive.</div>
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The 2-Series slots right into the 1-Series’ former position in the BMW range, but there's some significant change that BMW fans especially are going to spot right away. The 2-Series exterior is smoother, sleeker, and better-proportioned in every respect; it's longer, wider, and more spacious than the 1-Series as well. Perhaps owing to its slight increase in size, the curves, vents, and angles come together in a more graceful, artful way with the 2-Series. The mix of a relatively long hood, arched roof, and stubby tail speak to classic sports-coupe proportions, while managing to echo the look of the new 4-Series coupe at the same time.</div>
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The cabin of the 2015 BMW 2-Series is clearly driver-centric, with instruments and controls oriented for easy access. Materials look as good as they feel, and BMW offers a range of upgrades and trim lines to customize the car to the buyer’s preferences. Two engines are available in the 2-Series: a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder for the 228i, rated at 240 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque; and a 3.0-liter turbocharged in-line six-cylinder in the M235i that’s good for 322 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and new for the 2015 model year, xDrive all-wheel drive is available. M235i models have the choice of a six-speed manual transmission or eight-speed automatic; 228i coupes also offer the choice, but 228i convertibles come with the automatic only.</div>
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Despite the powerful engines and sprightly acceleration, the 2-Series manages fair gas mileage in rear-drive form, with the 228i returning 23 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 28 mpg combined. In M235i form, mileage drops as low as 19/26/22 mpg.</div>
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Performance in the 2-Series is brisk. Even the base model accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, while the M235i does the deed in 4.8 seconds. All-wheel drive shaves a couple tenths from either figure. Also new for the 2015 model year is a Track Handling Package code-named ZTR. Available on both rear- and all-wheel-drive 228i models, the new package adds the Adaptive M Suspension system, variable sport steering, M Sport Brakes, Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires, 18-inch wheels, and revised springs that reduce ride height by 10 mm. The new Track Handling Package costs $1,600 when chosen with the M Sport or Sport Line options, or $2,200 without.</div>
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Whichever version of 2-Series you may prefer, you’ll find the cabin surprisingly spacious for a sports coupe, with ample front seat space in every dimension and a wide range of adjustability for seating and steering wheel position. The rear seat is markedly roomier than the 1-Series, but still not quite comfortable for the full range of adult body sizes. An “Easy Entry” function improves accessibility to the rear seat, however--critical inside the Convertible, which is narrower in the back seat due to top packaging and hardware for its pop-up roll protection.</div>
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The convertible top, by the way, raises or lowers in 20 seconds, and can be operated at speeds of up to 30 mph. Cargo space is fair, if not impressive, with 13.8 cubic feet available in the trunk. The rear seats are split-folding, offering room for larger cargo when necessary (though access is narrower on convertibles due to body-structure additions). Up front you’ll find two cupholders, a glove box, and large door pockets for small-item storage.<br />
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The 2015 BMW 2-Series hasn’t yet been rated by either the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). And while the 2-Series doesn’t offer much advanced active-safety wizardry, or the cutting-edge technology of the brand’s full-size sedans, it does have a fair array of available high-tech equipment, including navigation with iDrive, a touch-sensitive console controller, driver assistance and connected telematics services, several advanced safety features, and a central display up to 8.8 inches wide. On the entertainment front, a Harmon Kardon HiFi audio system is available, as is Bluetooth audio streaming, app compatibility, and more. </div>
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Pricing for the 2015 BMW 2-Series starts at $33,050 for the 228i, rising $1,800 to $33,850 for the all-wheel-drive 228i xDrive. The M235i starts at $44,050, while the M235i xDrive begins at $45,850. Convertibles are priced from $38,850 for the 228i, $40,650 for the 228i xDrive, and $48,650 for the M235i.</div>
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BMW 2015 BMW 2-Series - Review

2015 BMW 2-Series - Review The 2015 BMW 2-Series is a well-rounded luxury sports coupe with looks, handling, features, and speed tha...

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