2014 Volkswagen Golf - Review

The 2014 Volkswagen Golf will have a relative short life, as it's the last model year for the generation launched in 2010. The all-new, redesigned 2015 VW Golf will arrive early in 2014, so the 2014 model likely won't be on sale for a full 12 months. As such, it's a carryover model with few changes from previous model years.

The Golf hatchback--including the sporty GTI and high-performance Golf R models--is instantly identifiable, with almost four decades of Golfs having evolved in a recognizable progression to the current model. It retains a somewhat more premium look and feel than other compact hatchbacks, a segment that's growing as a new generation of U.S. buyers warm up to the benefits of five doors and a shorter but more flexible configuration. Now the Golf competes with the Ford Focus, Mazda 3, and Subaru Impreza, as well as newer entries from Korea, the Hyundai Elantra GT and Kia Forte.

The downside of the premium positioning and materials, along with its German manufacture, means it's one of the more expensive compact hatchbacks. Fitted with the TDI diesel and dual-clutch automatic transmission, plus a handful of options, you'll see sticker prices closing in on $30,000. Entry Golfs start below $20,000, but that only gets you a 170-hp five-cylinder engine that's neither fuel-efficient nor refined. The TDI diesel sits at the top model in the Golf line--it's a whopping $6,000 more than the base car--though the 140-hp 2.0-liter turbodiesel comes with either a six-speed manual or the DSG six-speed dual-clutch automatic, which shifts more quickly and crisply than a conventional automatic and is paired well with the efficient diesel.

The sporty GTI model, in fact, has a lower base price than the Golf TDI, along with the much smoother and more rewarding 2.0-liter TSI turbocharged gasoline four, putting out 200 hp. But the TDI diesel is the fuel-efficiency champ, with a combined 34 mpg (30 mpg city, 42 mpg highway)--and most owners report that the car handily exceeds its EPA ratings in real-world driving. The base five-cylinder only returns 26 mpg combined with either a five-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic--far below most other compacts. Even the sporty GTI model does better than that (27 mpg combined) when fitted with the DSG automatic, though it falls to 25 mpg combined with the six-speed manual.

Across the range, the Golf remains a pleasure to drive, with a ride that's firm but compliant and quiet, taut cornering, and electric power steering that's responsive and conveys enough road feel to make the car feel sporty and connected to the road. The brakes are strong, and dynamically the Golf simply outguns the Korean competition--though the Ford Focus is within shouting distance. The higher price shows up in the ride and refinement, which are qualitatively and obviously better than cheaper and more mass-market competitors.

The GTI ramps those qualities up slightly, along with sportier design touches and the more powerful engine, but the interior fit, finish, and materials of every Golf are a cut above other compacts. Interior space is ample in the front, though tight in back, and the front seats are comfortable and supportive--with the GTI's sport seats the best of the bunch. The rear-seat disadvantage is particularly pronounced in the three-door model--it's the only three-door hatchback offered in the compact class that's not a specially styled variation--and that model sells in relatively small numbers against the more practical five-door version.

Even in its last year, the Golf range is fairly well equipped. It's not as plush or feature-rich as high-end models from some competitors, but you'll never mistake it for an economy model. Its one drawback is the lack of standard Bluetooth pairing, though these days the high-end models might also be expected to offer added safety features--from adaptive cruise control to lane-departure warning--that are moving quickly down from luxury models into more modest segments.

Touchscreen navigation and a sunroof are options across most trim levels, and the TDI versions add steering-wheel audio controls, Bluetooth, satellite radio, a multi-disc CD changer (remember those?), and an LCD audio interface. The GTI hot-hatch version ups the spec again, adding 18-inch alloy wheels, a sport steering wheel, heated side mirrors, the characteristic checked seat upholstery, and various other appearance upgrades.

2014 Volkswagen CC - Review

While Volkswagen has been able to get a more laser-like focus on the family sedan market with its mid-size Passat, it's "four-door coupe," the CC, has served a completely different role in the VW lineup. With more intrigue, fashion sense, and visual interest--as well as a few more luxury items and trims--it locks into the German automaker's lineup a notch above the Passat, while keeping the price (at least for most of the lineup) relatively affordable.

Last year Volkswagen gave the CC a mid-cycle refresh that kept its distinct profile but redrew some of the details in front and in back (adding LED lamps, among other upscale touches). Other noteworthy changes then included a rejiggered three-person back seat (in earlier model years you'll find a stylish but less practical two-person setup), and upgraded materials for the dash and cabin.

Even with the demise of the bucket-seat setup in back, VW still calls the CC a four-door coupe, and while up close it might look decidedly like a sedan, if you step back and view this model's side profile, it's easy to see why. it has proportions that hint 'rear-wheel-drive sport sedan' to some (and nod to the Mercedes-Benz CLS and Audi A7, among others), even though it's a front-driver.

While the CC might look like a serious sport sedan--or one with serious luxury credentials--it doesn't quite deliver to that impression. On the other hand what it does deliver, performance-wise, is better than what you might expect considering the 2013 CC's $31k base price: It essentially drives just much like the Passat in its more luxurious guises, with refinement clearly taking the priority over edginess or all-out performance.

We tend to think that there's only one way to get the CC: with the 200-horsepower, turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine (2.0T). Models with it feel lighter and more nimble than their top-of-the-line VR6 and 4Motion counterparts. The four churns out plenty of low- and mid-rev torque with only a slight delay if revs are at the low end, while the narrow-angle VR6 is spirited but seems to take a moment more to build steam.

It's not all that surprising that you lose a little practicality in moving from a more upright design like that of the Passat to the CC's swoopier package. Headroom is a bit tight, and you'll either love or hate the somewhat 'scooped up' driving position. The three-passenger back seat is comfortable, but headroom is tight and the curvy roofline makes entry and exit tougher than you might think. But the interior trims look and feel luxury-grade, the ride is absorbent and controlled, and the trunk is huge.

The 2014 Volkswagen CC is now offered in Sport, R-Line, 2.0T Executive, and VR6 Executive models. Now for 2014, the big news is that you no longer have to get the V6 in order to enjoy the top Executive trim--allowing you to pair the more fuel-efficient engine with some of the top features like premium sound, massage seats, and leather upholstery. The VR6 model remains the only one in the lineup to get all-wheel drive. New for 2014, the Executive 2.0T steps up to those features plus navigation with Sirius XM Traffic, an 'Easy Open' motion-activated trunk opener, Keyless Access with push-button start, and a new 18-inch alloy wheel design. Sport models now get LED daytime running lamps, Adaptive Front Lighting, navigation, and a rearview camera.

2014 Toyota 4Runner - Review

With the world moving on to crossovers en masse, the authentic, rugged sport-utility vehicle has been pushed to the margins. Toyota sells thousands more Venzas and Highlanders each year than it does copies of its 4Runner SUV--but just try pushing either of those softer, car-based vehicles up a steep, rocky incline.
For enthusiasts that truly need and want an off-road vehicle, the 4Runner has few substitutes. And though we differ from other reviewers, we think it's still decently capable on road as well, though nowhere near the minivan alternative that crossovers have become.

The 4Runner's rugged SUV look isn't some conjured image. It's the reverse: a long time ago it was spun off from truck-based hardware and given a wagon body, with few concessions made to style. That's held true for decades now, and while we might like a ground-up fresh start every generation or so, the 4Runner at least remains honest to its mission. The beltline is high, the proportions are chunky, and the downward slope of the rear pillars are a direct callback to the ur-4Runner. Inside, the same fundamental approach works, and works well: the knobs and controls are big and laid out in an uncluttered way, and the controls and gauges are framed with simple materials and the barest dash of metallic trim. For 2014, the 4Runner adds more soft-touch trim inside on base SR5 and Trail models, and the SR5 gets Toyota's sharp, bright Optitron gauges.

Overall, the Toyota 4Runner drives much better—and more athletically—than its trail-crawling appearance might suggest. Steering feel and maneuverability are unexpected delights in the 4Runner; at low speeds especially, the 4Runner handles with better precision and control than you might expect from such a big, heavy model, and visibility isn't bad. But you'll be reminded you're in a tall vehicle with soft sidewalls and a safe suspension calibration if you attack corners too quickly. A 4.0-liter V-6 engine, makes 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, and feels plenty quick either off the line or at highway speeds.
Fuel economy is estimated at 17/23 mpg for rear-drive models, and 17/22 mpg for four-wheel-drive versions.

V-6 SR5 models are offered either with rear-wheel drive or a part-time four-wheel-drive system, while Trail models are only offered with that 4WD system, with overhead controls. Limited models get a separate full-time four-wheel-drive system that's more road-oriented. The Limited gets standard 20-inch wheels and tires, while other models come fitted with 17-inchers.

In Trail grade (the off-road model), the 4Runner includes a host of electronics and systems meant to complement the sturdy off-road hardware. Base models can be a little pitchy on rough pavement, but Limited models get yet another setup: a so-called X-REAS system with electronically adjusting dampers, geared for flatter cornering and pavement surfaces. The Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (KDSS) that's optional in the Trail model uses hydraulics to reduce motions on-road or increase off-road traction and riding comfort, with more wheel travel in that situation.

Interior space is where you might start to notice some of the shortcomings of the 4Runner's traditional body-on-frame layout versus models like the Ford Explorer or Dodge Durango. Simply put, while the 4Runner has smartly designed seating and is comfortable enough for long highway trips, it's not quite up to some of these alternatives in terms of cargo space or flexibility, due to its narrower body and rather tall floor. The front seats look and feel great with the available perforated-leather upholstery, and they're wide and supportive, to fit quite the range of sizes. The second row adjusts for rake (reclining 16 degrees in four stops), and adult-sized occupants will also feel at home, thanks to seat contouring that goes well beyond the stiff bench cushions in some rivals. As for the third row, it's hard to get back there, so leave it to the (small) kids; it's only offered on the more on-road-oriented models, not on the Trail edition.

The 2013 4Runner is also surprisingly refined inside--dodging some of the impressions of trucks and off-road-able vehicles and providing a tight, quiet highway cruising experience, with a reasonably smooth ride and very little road or wind noise. Safety is also not at all compromised compared to popular crossovers, with eight standard airbags, including front side bags, side-curtain bags for the second and third rows, and front knee bags for the driver and passenger. Safety scores from the IIHS and federal government have indicated that the 4Runner has relatively good occupant protection, but it's not quite in the top tier. A rearview camera is now standard on all models.

Base 4Runner SR5 models include plenty of standard equipment, including a power driver seat, a roof rack, power features, and an audio system with a CD player, satellite radio, a USB port, iPod connectivity, and Bluetooth audio streaming. Mobile-app connectivity is standard via Toyota's Entune services. The off-road purists who also sometimes need to haul the family will want the Trail model, which includes all the off-road goodies. Top Limited models step up to dual power front seats, navigation, and 15-speaker JBL premium sound. Other desirable features include sonar-based rear parking, a navigation system, and a subscription-based Safety Connect telematics system.

2014 Mercedes-Benz GLK Class - Review

Following last year's design update, the 2014 Mercedes GLK may look somewhat rugged, but it's actually a very comfortable crossover with pleasant driving manners. It's also available with a turbocharged diesel engine now, giving the GLK a greener demeanor than past models.

Nearly every angle, nook and cranny of the GLK was updated for 2013. Almost, that is, except very conventional SUV-style body. Where most other crossovers on the market have gone to the school of egg-shaped smoothness and sloping curves, the Mercedes GLK wears real sport utility design more outwardly than any other vehicle in its class, with exception to the Land Rover LR2. The taller, boxy design offers a little extra interior space, but belies its more gentle road-going experience. However, the interior carries the crossover message home–filled with soft-touch materials, and a large LCD screen that's surrounded by intuitively-placed controls.

Interior room is ample for passengers, and the front seats are supportive and nicely tailored. Finding a comfortable driving position isn't difficult, even for taller drivers. Knee room is fine in the second-row seat, and the angular roofline preserves head room, too. The rear seats fold forward to expand the GLK's cargo bin, leaving 54.7 cubic feet of space if just two passengers are present. With four people on board, the 23.3 cubic feet of cargo space is on the small side for the category. The standard upholstery in the GLK is a synthetic, and most passengers will never know the difference; leather is, of course, an option.

The GLK's standard-equipment list leaves no question that it's a luxury vehicle. It includes 19-inch wheels, dual-zone automatic climate control, power front seats, and Bluetooth connectivity. Satellite radio is available; so are a power liftgate; a navigation system powered by COMAND; and 20-inch wheels. New this year on all models is mbrace2, the Mercedes connectivity suite that puts mobile apps in touch with the vehicle--so that Yelp, Google search, and Facebook are a voice command or fingertip touch away. No SUV from the past ever did that--but more crossovers in the near future surely will.

After three years of chugging along with a sole powertrain configuration, the GLK divested that engine in 2013 in favor of a new six-cylinder shared with the E-Class, and adopted a long-awaited turbodiesel four from the European lineup. The six? It's more of the same quick-witted power, delivered to either the rear or all four wheels via a seven-speed, paddle-shifted automatic, and configured with stop/start control and direct injection to boost fuel economy (still unannounced as of yet). Performance is gutsy and vibrant, with more pleasant engine noise than before, and 0-60 mph times of 6.5 seconds--a couple of ticks quicker than the prior edition. The BlueTEC diesel is rated at 190 horsepower, 369 pound-feet of torque, shares the automatic and all-wheel drive, and pulls to 60 mph in about 8.0 seconds, with a hint of 30-mpg highway efficiency.

With either, really, the roughly 4,100-pound GLK feels relaxed and swift in everyday driving. On pavement, the GLK has a car-like cadence to its ride motions and its cornering forces. The steering's gone electric, but hasn't gone completely numb; it corners neatly, though with less heft and feedback than before. The suspension is tuned to be taut but well damped; it doesn't allow much body motion, but soaks up most roughness while the cabin stays tight and quiet. It's not anything like a hardcore off-roader, but its 4WD system will cut its way through foul weather, delivering power smoothly through muddy ruts and tackling the usual all-weather challenges pretty easily.

Dodge Dart named Top Safety Pick

The 2013 Dodge Dart was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, despite the recently publicized problems with other commuter cars in small overlap impact testing.

The 2013 Dodge Dart received a Good rating in all four IIHS crash tests, in addition to a 5-star safety rating
from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This makes it the third vehicle from the Chrysler Group to achieve a Top Safety Pick+ designation.

"We are very pleased that the Dart has earned a Top Safety Pick+ designation," said Tim Kuniskis, President and CEO Dodge Brand – Chrysler Group LLC.

In recent small overlap testing 6 of 12 vehicles tested received marginal or poor ratings in impacts. Among these were the Chevrolet Cruze and Sonic, along with the VW Beetle, all rated marginal.
Also tested were the Kia Soul and Forte who rated poor, along with the Nissan Sentra.
The Dodge Dart received an acceptable rating in these tests as demonstrated in the video below. The small overlap impact was at a speed of 40 mph.

"In addition to its solid structure – the Dart's 68-percent high-strength-steel content ratio is one of the highest in the industry – the Dart boasts more than 60 safety and security features,” added Kuniskis. “They include 10 standard air bags, which is unsurpassed in the compact car segment."

The Dodge Dart is generally regarded as a small car bringing exhilarating performance back to a small vehicle greater than the sum of its parts, partly due to its kinship with the Alfa Romeo line. At an attractive price point the little powerhouse comes loaded with cutting-edge technology and class-leading safety systems.

The new Dart GT builds on that with a 2.4L engine, kicking out 184 horsepower on a sport-tuned suspension, gripping black 18-inch wheels, and featuring a 8.4-inch Uconnect Touchscreen display – a giant screen for a car this size.

Throwing in hands-free Bluetooth connectivity and LED racetrack taillamps makes the 2013 Dodge Dart an unusual combination of power, efficiency, technology, style, safety and security for a base price of just $15,995 ($20,995 for the GT model).

Add it all up and you have a fun to drive, safe and economical small car that gets up to 29-mpg on the highway. That’s a lot of little car for very little green – both at the dealership and the gas pump.

The All New 2014 BMW X5

The 2014 BMW X5 sticks to the formula the brand established when it launched its first SUV in 2000, and subtly evolves styling from the last generation. The midsize luxury SUV features a few notable changes, but are they an improvement over the outgoing model?
The X5 retains the old model’s shape, and at first glance, it appears not much has changed. The profile features a similar sloping rear liftgate and signature rear quarter window Hofmeister kink. The most striking feature you’ll notice from the side view is the new Air Breather vent on the front fender, which channels airflow through the wheel wells. Dimensions have grown somewhat, but the short front and rear overhangs are retained from the last generation.
The front end gets a major makeover, with headlights that now connect to the large dual kidney grilles as they do on the current 3 Series. The LED accent rings on the dual round headlamps are now squared off at the bottom, with an LED accent strip across the top. The Air Curtain intake that first appeared on the 4 Series coupe concept graces the front valance of the new X5, designed to guide air around the wheel arches to reduce drag.
The rear of the X5 is brought up to date with the rest of BMW’s lineup. The taillights are L-shaped like the last X5, but are made wider with slim, three-dimensional LED strips within the housings. Two black trim pieces called Aero Blades connect the roof spoiler to the liftgate to help with aerodynamics. The rear bumper appears more rounded, as does the rear glasshouse.

The biggest change inside the cabin is the updated central display, which now rises out of the center stack as opposed to being recessed on the previous model. The optional rear entertainment screens are similarly free-floating, now looking like tablet computer tacked onto the backs of the front seats. The lines in the door panel appear more contoured, with leather now lining the tops.
Last week, we asked you about the 2014 Jeep Cherokee’s design. Not surprisingly, the crossover’s polarizing styling had readers split almost down the middle on its looks. User jensenNadali was impressed by the Cherokee’s lines, saying, “I really like the new Cherokee, it looks so futuristic and striking. And the interior looks MUCH nicer than the last-generation Liberty.” ToCool4School disagreed, saying, “Those headlights are horrible. Did they want the front end to look like a deep ocean fish?”

Toyota recalling 185,000 vehicles globally

Tokyo -- Toyota Motor Corp. is recalling 185,000 vehicles globally, mostly in Japan and Europe, for a glitch in the power steering. No accidents have been reported related to this problem.
Toyota spokesman Brian Lyons says the recall reported Wednesday covers 123,000 vehicles in Japan, including the Vitz compact, and 46,000 vehicles in Europe, including the Yaris, all produced between August 2010 and March 2012.


It also covers 11,000 Subaru Trezia vehicles produced under an OEM deal, all in Japan, he said.
Only about 100 vehicles were affected in North America.
The problem can short circuit the power steering, causing a warning lamp go on and a buzzer to go off. It can also suspend power-steering assistance, so the driver needs to work harder to steer, according to Toyota.

GM's Mid-Size Pickups to Get Revamp for U.S. Return

General Motors (GM) will re-launch its U.S. mid-size pickup trucks next year with the same Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon nameplates but different design objectives, Chief Financial Officer Dan Ammann said.

The automaker ceased production of the smaller pickups about a year ago. Ammann, speaking at an annual Center for Automotive Research conference in Michigan, explained that GM’s redesigned Chevrolet Colorado will be a sport pickup, while the higher-end GMC Canyon will be positioned as a truck for city drivers.

GM confirmed last fall that the trucks would return to the U.S. On Thursday, the company provided an image featuring just the front grills of the new Colorado and Canyon.
“These are a fundamental different proposition than what we offered previously,” Ammann said, according to The Wall Street Journal. “This is a segment that used to be a very big portion of the truck market that has diminished over the years, because there hasn’t been an offering in the segment customers were looking for. So we are looking to bring something that redefines the segment.”

Mid-size pickups were primarily geared toward drivers looking for towing capacity on a budget, with less emphasis on design. The refreshed versions for 2015 were expected to be a different breed, as GM has already begun selling international models featuring sportier designs.

The U.S. trucks will share certain components used in the global versions. However, Ammann said the domestic models will not be based on the same underpinnings, even though GM and other automakers have used global platforms more frequently to control costs.

“Our goal is to meet the needs of the customers here in North America, and we think they are different than the customers in places like Thailand,” Ammann said.

GM is betting on the mid-size pickups to attract a wider range of customers interested in trucks, broadening its portfolio beyond the full-size Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. Full-size pickup sales have been on a tear lately, with GM seeing July demand for its redesigned 2014 Silverado and Sierra trucks climb 44% year-over-year.

The Colorado and Canyon, slated for production at a plant in Missouri, will likely be priced lower and offer better fuel economy, while sacrificing some towing capacity.

U.S. car makers currently don’t compete in the market for mid-size pickups. Nissan’s Frontier and Toyota’s (TM) Tacoma virtually split annual mid-size pickup sales of 200,000.

Chrysler Group is weighing a new mid-size pickup to replace the Dodge Dakota. Ford (F) previously made the Ranger but hasn’t revealed any future plans.

On Friday, GM shares were down 10 cents at $35.91 in early afternoon trading.

Volkswagen to add new diesel engine to 2014 lineup

Volkswagen will add a new diesel engine for its car lineup in North America starting in the second half of 2014.

The German automaker’s newest and most fuel-efficient diesel engine will debut on the 2015 Golf, Jetta, Passat and Beetle, the automaker announced today at the Management Briefing Seminars automotive conference near Traverse City.

The new turbocharged engine will eventually replace all the 2.0-liter TDI Clean Diesel engines in VW and Audi TDI diesel models, said Oliver Schmidt, general manager of the Energy and Environmental Office for Volkswagen Group of America.

It is a four-cylinder, direct-injection engine that makes 150 horsepower which is 10 more than the engine it replaces and it also has fewer emissions.

VW has sold more than 47,000 vehicles with diesels in the U.S. so far this year – almost 78% of U.S. diesel sales for passenger cars.

“The Volkswagen Group is a leader in clean diesel technology,” said Schmidt, adding he is excited that the VW family of diesel vehicles continues to improve.

In North America, Canadians have embraced diesels more fully than Americans who prefer gasoline enginesand hybrids.

Most automakers have limited diesel offerings in the U.S. but a small uptick is underway with diesels as options in such vehicles as the Chevrolet Cruze and Mazda6.

Most Popular Vehicles for July 2013

The 50 most-researched vehicles June 2013.

1. 
   Honda Accord
   The fully redesigned 2013 Honda Accord returns to the top of the family-sedan class with a mix of excellent packaging, superb fuel economy and rewarding performance.
2. 
   Honda CR-V
   Roomy, fuel-efficient and loaded with family-friendly amenities, the 2013 Honda CR-V is one of our favorite compact crossover SUVs.
3. 
   Ford Escape
   The 2013 Ford Escape is a winner in the segment of small crossover utility vehicles thanks to athletic driving dynamics, an inviting cabin and plenty of useful high-tech features.
4. 
   Toyota RAV4
   Previously looking a little dated among fresher competitors, the Toyota RAV4 returns with a new look and new features that place it again at the forefront of small-to-midsize crossover SUVs.
5. 
   Honda Civic
   Honda fully redesigned the current generation Civic just last year. But with new compacts threatening its traditional dominance, the 2013 Civic arrives with a new look to complement its still-competitive package.
6. 
   Mazda CX-5
   With its fuel-efficient engine, engaging driving experience and daring styling, the 2013 Mazda CX-5 is a good pick for those seeking a sporty yet thrifty crossover SUV.
7. 
   Subaru Forester
   It's neither the most efficient nor the most luxurious small crossover available, but the Subaru Forester will hold special appeal for those drivers who frequently enjoy the great outdoors.
8. 
   Jeep Grand Cherokee
   On-road refinement, a well-trimmed cabin and traditional off-road ability make the 2013 Jeep Grand Cherokee fully competitive with other midsize SUVs and crossovers.
9. 
   Acura MDX
   The 2013 Acura MDX delivers plenty of luxury, refinement and performance without breaking the bank, making it a standout in its class.
10. 
    BMW 3 Series
    Regardless of body style, the 2013 BMW 3 Series is an impressively well-rounded and highly desirable entry-level luxury car.
11. 
    Ford Fusion
    With solid power, excellent fuel economy, provocative styling and enhanced refinement, the 2013 Ford Fusion is a top choice for a midsize sedan.
12. 
    Toyota Camry
    With its well-rounded nature and long-standing history of dependability, the 2013 Camry stands as one of the top choices in the highly competitive midsize sedan segment.
13. 
    Ford F-150
    America's top-selling pickup is offered in a substantial array of trims and powertrains to accommodate all manner of towing, hauling or off-road needs.
14. 
    Subaru Outback
    A new, more efficient engine, high-tech safety features and commendable off-road performance make the 2013 Subaru Outback a top pick among utility crossovers, especially for those who frequently enjoy the great outdoors.
15. 
    Nissan Altima
    Now in its fifth generation, the 2013 Nissan Altima is the most refined, efficient and upscale Altima ever. Sharp handling, a well-made cabin and energetic engines instill the Altima with more character than the typical family sedan.
16. 
    Toyota Highlander
    The 2013 Toyota Highlander is an excellent choice for a do-all family vehicle, though several competitors offer more interior space and utility.
17. 
    Ford Focus
    The well-rounded, well-built 2013 Ford Focus stands as one of the top choices in an increasingly competitive segment.
18. 
    Ford Explorer
    With solid on-road dynamics, decent fuel efficiency and an accommodating, high-class cabin, the 2013 Ford Explorer is a top pick for a large crossover SUV.
19. 
    Mazda MAZDA3
    A high-efficiency engine further cements the 2013 Mazda 3's reputation as a class favorite.
20. 
    Hyundai Sonata
    Despite the newer midsize sedan rivals that have hit the market, the 2013 Hyundai Sonata remains a top pick in a very competitive set.
21. 
    Hyundai Santa Fe
    The redesigned 2013 Hyundai Santa Fe has what it takes to unseat the class-leading crossovers, with quality, power, comfort and style.
22. 
    Toyota Tacoma
    With multiple configurations and ample ability on- and off-road, the 2013 Toyota Tacoma remains one of the top choices among midsize trucks.
23. 
    Honda Odyssey
    The 2013 Honda Odyssey is a top pick for minivans thanks to its versatile interior, long list of features and engaging driving dynamics.
24. 
    Mazda MAZDA6
    The 2013 Mazda 6 earns high marks for its sporty driving dynamics and spacious interior. But there are newer family sedans that might suit you better.
25. 
    Acura RDX
    More power, better fuel economy and a fresh look make the 2013 Acura RDX a solid choice for a premium small crossover.
26. 
    Chevrolet Cruze
    Put the preconceived notions to bed, because Chevrolet has a quality small car in the form of the 2013 Cruze.
27. 
    Toyota Corolla
    Among fresher rivals, the 2013 Toyota Corolla is no longer a class leader. Competitors offer advantages in key areas, and we suggest cross-shopping popular alternatives before making your decision.
28. 
     Ford Mustang
    Though this generation of Mustang is nearing the end of its lifecycle, the 2013 Ford Mustang remains the top muscle car and one of the best bang-for-the-buck deals.
29. 
    Hyundai Elantra
    Thanks to head-turning styling, a fuel-efficient engine, a long list of standard safety features and upscale options, the 2013 Hyundai Elantra stands as a top pick for a compact sedan.
30. 
    Honda Pilot
    The 2013 Honda Pilot disappoints behind the wheel, but its supreme utility shouldn't be ignored.
31. 
    Volkswagen Passat
    Distinguishing itself with European-style refinement and an efficient diesel option, the 2013 Volkswagen Passat is a solid choice for a family sedan.
32. 
    Nissan Pathfinder
    The new Nissan Pathfinder trades off-road brawn for on-road comfort. This big change is complemented by a stylish, welcoming cabin and top fuel economy ratings, making the revised Pathfinder a solid choice for a midsize or large crossover SUV.
33. 
    Audi Q5
    From exciting performance to excellent comfort and convenience, the 2013 Audi Q5's qualities give it broad appeal.
34. 
    Ford Edge
    Thanks to its well-rounded nature, the 2013 Ford Edge is one of the top choices for a midsize crossover SUV.
35. 
    Ford Fusion Energi
    Although its fuel efficiency is most impressive, it's hard to justify the 2013 Ford Fusion Energi's big price jump over the already very frugal Fusion Hybrid.
36. 
    Toyota Prius
    The 2013 Toyota Prius continues to be the quintessential hybrid, though other newer hybrids are more desirable to drive.
37. 
    Mercedes-Benz E-Class
    With class-leading luxury, impeccable workmanship and a long list of body styles and features, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz E-Class is easily a top pick.
38. 
    Kia Sorento
    Well equipped and just the right size for small families, the 2013 Kia Sorento is an excellent pick for a small or midsize crossover SUV.
39. 
    Jeep Wrangler
    Though more civilized than ever, the 2013 Jeep Wrangler remains a no-nonsense American icon. Its quirky character and unique off-road abilities continue to appeal.
40. 
    Tesla Model S
    As one of the most desirable electric cars available today, the 2013 Tesla Model S is also one of the best luxury sedans, too.
41. 
    Chevrolet Silverado 1500
    Despite an aging design, the 2013 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is a strong contender in the full-size pickup segment thanks to its wide range of body styles, capable performance and good highway manners.
42. 
    BMW 5 Series
    The 2013 BMW 5 Series remains a leader among midsize luxury sedans as an all-around performer.
43. 
    Toyota Sienna
    Roomy, comfortable, well-built and offered in several different trim levels, the 2013 Toyota Sienna minivan is an excellent choice for larger families.
44. 
    Chevrolet Equinox
    Stylish and comfortable, the 2013 Chevy Equinox is one of our top choices in the highly competitive segment of compact crossovers.
45. 
    Kia Optima
    The 2013 Kia Optima is one of our top picks for a midsize sedan. With evocative styling, strong engine choices and a long list of features, it's easy to see why.
46. 
    GMC Acadia
    Like its almost identical cousins from Buick and Chevy, the three-row 2013 GMC Acadia offers a winning combination of comfort, features, cargo space and performance in a utility-style package.
47. 
    Chevrolet Impala
    Despite a spacious cabin and comfortable ride, the 2013 Chevrolet Impala is outdone by most competitors, especially the upcoming all-new 2014 Impala. You can do better.
48. 
    Lexus RX 350
    The 2013 Lexus RX 350 leads when it comes to providing a plush ride, a luxurious cabin and everyday utility. For most buyers, those attributes should be enough to overcome its rather uninspiring driving dynamics.
49. 
    Toyota Avalon
    With new features and a new look for 2013, the Toyota Avalon should earn new respect as a top choice for a full-size sedan.
50. 
    Subaru Impreza
    A roomy interior, a commendable ride/handling balance and all-wheel drive make the 2013 Subaru Impreza a solid choice for an all-season compact sedan or hatchback.