Volkswagen CC me please!

You could buy an Audi, BMW or Mercedes to dress up your company car parking space, or you could buy a Volkswagen CC. Yes, Volkswagen has a classy four-door coupe that’s more than just a sleek looking sedan. It’s full of charm and character; however you’d better act fast because the Arteon is around the corner.

The 3.6 six-cylinder is no longer available but you can make do with the familiar 2-liter turbo four. It does offer decent punch and is quite flexible where it matters the most. However, we certainly wish that it were as potent as the one found in the Golf R. Most will be completely satisfied with this engine though because running costs are respectable and the starting price of the CC means that it’s way cheaper than the BMW 4-series gran-coupe and Mercedes CLS.

On the road the CC holds onto corners and bends well. It doesn’t feel like a glorified Passat but it certainly is far from the classier rivals from BMW and Mercedes. You’ll find that steering feedback is just enough and the overall suspension doesn’t feel rock hard, but provides a striking balance between comfort and handling. However, the rear windscreen creates huge blind spots, and the slopping roofline means that rear passengers will have to duck down lower than comfort to get into the rear seat. Once you’re back there, the space isn’t very inviting if you’re a tall passenger and don’t even get us started on legroom. It’s best described as a two plus two affair because three abreast is pushing it to limits outside of the realm of comfort. The boot space is quite generous though, but it is far from versatile like the BMW 4-series gran-coupe hatchback design.

The CC doesn’t look like much of a value on paper until you dip into the standard kit. You get plenty of kit for the money which is hard to say about some of its keen rivals. Leatherette seating surfaces, bi-xenon headlamps, push button ignition and navigation system are also standard. The R-Line adds a body-kit and 18-inch alloy wheels. The option for 4motion all-wheel-drive used to be solely for the 3.6 but that engine is no longer available and either is the all-wheel-drive. We do hope that the all-wheel-drive does make a return in the future with the Arteon.

The CC isn’t the newest kid on the block but it certainly does have charm and classiness that some rivals can’t quite match. It may not be the sharpest to drive but it certainly does hold its own well and in a segment all about standing out, the CC still looks fresh.

Likes: The turbo engine spools well and running costs are decent. The interior is classy and the driving dynamics are much sharper than expected.

Dislikes: Wait for the Arteon.

We drive a Suburban known Chevy

Picking the Chevy Suburban means that you need space and lots of it. It offers seating up to nine and can tow up to 8,300lbs. The Suburban will put minivans and most crossovers to shame. But with high running costs and bulky image will it be enough to justify buying one?

The sole engine on hand is a 5.3-liter Eco-Tec eight-cylinder which produces 355hp. Rear-wheel-drive is standard while four-wheel-drive is optional. We strongly suggest getting the four-wheel-drive which really does help out in snowy areas and adds a bit of traction in towing. But for those who won't need all-wheel-drive the rear-wheel-drive is just as capable. Acceleration is smooth and brisk but remember this is a large nine-seat sport utility vehilce so it's not going to be race car fast.
The sheer size of the Suburban makes it a chore to live with. Rear view vision camera really does come in handy when reversing out of parking spaces in the mall and in the city. But it's still tricky to navigate on anything but large Blvds and highways. Steering is okay but it feels rather heavy at times and the Suburban is about as aerodynamic as a tower block so wind noise will be an issue. Road noise is very well hidden though.

The Suburban can seat up to nine but we reckon that most will find that even the seven seat configuration is more than enough. With the third row in place the boot space is decent but it grows enormously with the third row seat folding down. Fold down the second row seat too and you've got a massively large boot. The LS trim is the way to go it's the cheapest of the range and offers enough for most buyers needs. Automatic climate control, rear view parking camera, remote start and rear park assist all come standard. You'll have to step up to the LT trim which adds leather seats, power tailgate and forward collision warning. Top of the range LTZ offers HID headlights with LED daytime running lamps, keyless start and 20 inch alloy wheels.

The Chevy Suburban isn't cheap to buy nor is it cheap to run. The large thirsty eight-cylinder engine will be a welcome visitor at the pump. Resale value should be good thanks the Suburban nameplate and the fact that people will always still buy these even if gas prices shoot past $6 per gallon.

The Chevy Suburban is a great workhorse of a vehicle. It can seat up to nine offers plenty of comfort for people and can tow up to 8,300lbs. It's a great vehicle if you stick with the standard form which is the cheapest. Paying more than the LT trim means you'll be entering territory with choices like the Mercedes GL which is an all round better option. The Chevy Suburban is a great family car for those who want big but there are premium rivals that do the same tricks better and save a few miles on the gallon too.

Likes: The sheer size of it intimidates other drivers. Lovely eight-cylinder rumble under heavy acceleration.

Dislikes: Sheer size makes it a chore to live with. Running costs are high. There's no diesel engine option. Top of the range trim is expensive and isn't as great as some rivals.

Devon's pick: LS trim is all the Suburban you'll ever really need. You'll have to pay extra for four-wheel-drive but rear view parking camera and rear parking assist are standard as well as automatic climate control and a remote start system. Most will be satisfied with those features.

Odd foods/ drinks you've probably never heard of

Egg Loaf

You have a recipe that requires eight or ten eggs. However, who wants to go through the trouble of having to boil and crack egg shells? Japan figured that you'd not want to go through the trouble either and invented a machine that separates the egg shell from the egg white and yolk. Then combines the egg white and yolk into one large loaf. That's how you get Egg Loaf. A large lump of eggs that can make any food that requires a large amount of eggs a breeze. Although you may wonder how many foods will you cook that requires this many eggs?




Carbonated Yogurt

Your kids are 'on the go' and they need food that can match their 'on the go' schedules. Why not pull out some fun carbonated yogurt or Go-Gurt (Fizzix) for breakfast, or maybe a nice little snack before practice. Go-Gurt (Fizzix) has the same nutritional values as yogurt but is more portable and needs no spoon for the 'on the go' kids. Listen parents, if you're kids are so 'on the go' that they need to get their calcium needs from a little pouch of yogurt with soda bubbles in it. Chances are your kids are on drugs, and you should sit them down and possibly talk about going to rehab.




Whole Chicken in a can

We know what its like to be 'on the go' and so we mentioned that Go-Gurt (Fizzix) is a good way to get your calcium needs from a little pouch with soda bubbles. Now that you've had your fix, its time for a nice little sit down meal with the family. Since you're always 'on the go' cooking a nice home cooked meal is just way too long and doesn't fit your 'on the go' schedule. So why not just grab whole chicken in a can. That's right, you can buy precooked chicken in a can that takes little time to cook. Just look at that mucous that pours right out of the can, it makes for a delicious gravy! Don't worry about salmonella poisoning or the tasty afterbirth that may still be on the chicken. It's precooked and its probably so much easier than getting the real thing. After all you're 'on the go' and don't have time to cook or worry about your family having explosive diarrhea after this tasty meal.




Cheeseburger in a can

You're at work and its one of those days where it seems like your lunch break is just so far away. You begin to get the craving for a cheeseburger. What's the most logical thing to do here? Wait for your lunch break and drive to a burger joint? No!! You only get a half hour lunch stupid! (And the nearest burger joint is 20 minutes away) But don't worry, you can always buy a cheeseburger in a can. That's right, cheeseburger in a can is the fastest way you can have a tasty cheeseburger without having to go all the way to a burger joint and get a real burger.



Doesn't that look tasty?

 You'd think this tasty almost vomit looking burger would be cheap, but in reality it will set you back six bucks and you don't even get fries and a drink with it. Maybe explosive diarrhea after eating this, after all eating a cheeseburger in a can means that you'll want to get it out as quickly as you eat it.




 Edible Plates

You've just finished a plate full of food and you're still hungry. The most logical thing would be go for seconds. However, you want to eat it all including the plate for some odd reason. Well you're in luck, edible plates are made from cassava, a versatile plant which can be used to feed animals, treat malaria, diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome and, apparently, to make cookware easier to consume. Some may wonder well you have taco salads where the plate is made of fried tortilla, so why do you need an edible plate? In those cases however, the food is sitting on another plate the way food is meant to. Edible plates however are sitting directly on the table where your roommate does drugs and masturbates on top of and forgot to tell you he didn't clean the table off. Which means you'll need another plate to eat off the plate that you probably don't need because a regular plate isn't edible and you want to eat it all including the plate. Soon you'll be going through a cycle of plates until you go insane and break all the dishes in your house.

Pepsi White 

Now that you've finished your meal on an edible plate that was eaten off a disgusting table. It's now time for you to wash down all that food with a nice fresh beverage. What's that? You need your carbonated yogurt fix, because you're so 'on the go' and just don't have time for a regular beverage like everyone else. Take you're 'on the go' self over to Japan and buy a Pepsi White. Yes Pepsi white is one of the many odd flavors that Pepsi sells in Japan. It's basically yogurt that's been mixed with Pepsi, so you can have your carbonated yogurt fix. Many describe the taste of Pepsi White as a cream soda with an unusual after taste.

Ford needs to 'refocus' on the Focus

The Ford Focus was one of many vehicles that helped keep Ford ‘focused’ in the right direction, and the sales of it proved that Ford knows a thing or two about small cars. But with several new rivals that have caught on, does the Focus still offer a valid reason to consider one?

The standard 2-liter four-cylinder engine seems to be the only way to go here. We applaud Ford for offering the 1-liter ecoboost3-cylinder engine, but it just doesn’t feel as flexible as you’d think since it has a turbocharger. There isn’t much torque at low revs compared to the 2-liter non-turbo and the fact that you have to pay a premium over that engine proves buying this engine is a false economy. We would boost about how low the running costs are, but our figures were so close to the 2-liter engine that we couldn’t even recommend it even if we wanted to. It might be great for those seeking a non-hybrid option, but for those individuals they’re most likely going to stick to city driving and staying in the cruising lane on the highway with this engine.

The Focus just doesn’t seem a sharp to drive as the Volkswagen Golf, but it certainly isn’t far from it. The steering feedback is good and the car handles nicely. The only way you can get a sharper to drive chassis is to opt for the ST, but in this review we’re only going to ‘focus’ on the mainstream versions. Our tester car came fitted with the optional 1-liter ecoboost3-cylinder engine and like we said prior, it didn’t feel all the flexible to drive where it matters most. You’ll find yourself shifting down a gear to keep the momentum going, the way the gearing is set up with the manual gearbox makes livability of that gearbox itself questionable. It certainly does feel strange as it forces you to shift up sooner than you’d like all in the name of fuel consumption, and that aspect of it really isn’t anything to brag about. We’ve test driven the 2-liter four-cylinder with the six-speed auto gearbox and it certainly didn’t win any fans with us. The gearbox was way too slow to react and was jerky in between shifts making it very uncomfortable to drive. We have yet to test the new Focus with the retooled six-speed auto gearbox.

Our tester car didn’t come equipped with the large infotainment system that is standard on the higher spec’d trims. The tiny 5-inch display is fine, but the dashboard is way too fiddly to navigate through. The front seats offer plenty of support and while those in the rear seat won’t have anything to complain about. The hatch makes more sense if you are seeking versatility as the sedan, while it may be the popular choice for some doesn’t have the eye appeal that the hatchback has. The portions seem really off and the boot space is nowhere near as practical.

Our tester car came fitted with 17-inch alloy wheels, fog lamps, rear disc brakes and the 1-liter ecoboost3-cylinder engine. Bluetooth, keyless entry, automatic headlamps and active grill shutters are also fitted as standard. You’ll have to pay extra for that turbocharged three-cylinder engine and you can’t get this engine on the hatchback.

 The Ford Focus may not be on everyone’s shortlist but it certainly is a vehicle worth considering if you aren’t swayed by the Golf or vast number of options in this segment. We however certainly wouldn’t option for one as the engine choices aren’t the most inspiring, and the build quality we are still iffy about as Ford’s track record with the Focus hasn’t been the greatest. You’ll have to be daft to overlook the Mazda3 and all the other choices that are just as fun to drive, offer low running costs and don’t feel as sparsely kitted as the Focus. There is a new Focus around the corner and is worth waiting for if you have your heart set out on a Focus. You’ll be bitterly disappointed if you buy this current generation.

Likes: The hatchback is practical and is slightly more stylish than the sedan. Running costs are decent and it’s actually surprisingly sharp to drive.

Dislikes: The turbo three-cylinder is a false economy. We still are iffy with quality and reliability. Wait for the next generation to arrive.

Our pick: The SEL hatch seems to offer a striking balance between price and standard kit. You’ll want to do whatever you can to avoid the entry-level SE version which gets the tiny infotainment screen and button happy dashboard.

A bite of the forbidden fruit.

Volkswagen Bluemotion
What is it? An ultra fuel efficient line of vehicles. With emissions ratings lower than a hybrid. With improved aerodynamics to lower drag coefficiency and other fuel efficient technologies used in sports cars to improve fuel economy.
Why is it illegal? U.S. has strict emissions standards on diesel engines. This makes it harder for European Automakers to design diesel engines for the U.S.



Fiat Panda 4X4

What is it? Based upon a small car called the Panda that's sold everywhere but the U.S.

Why it should be sold here? It's a cheap alternate to a Jeep. With better gas mileage. The small size with short overhangs means its great off-road. This car can climb a 35-degree incline. With a few extra horsepower, it can tackle a Land Rover off-road.



Audi A1
What is it? Audi's Mini Cooper fighter.

Why should it be sold here? It's a Mini Cooper with a splash of style inside out. The interior is upscale Audi and the price is very low. It's perfect for congested urban areas.



BMW 1-series
What is it? A hatchback version of the 1 Series coupe.

Why should it be sold here? Other than the affordable base price, the 1-series hatch is rear wheel drive. Making it drive just as good as the other BMWs but with more praticality. A perfect rival to the Volkwagen GTI and Subaru Impreza.



Mercedes A-class
What is it? A hatchback that's as small as a Honda Fit. But has more versatility than a small MPV.

Why should it be sold here? The A-class should've been sold here under the Smart brand. Sold as the Forfour, Smart would've done way better with this hatchback than the Fortwo.



Alfa Romeo MiTo
What is it? Alfa Romeo's smallest hatchback.

Why should it be sold here? Alfa Romeo has some of the most stylish Italian cars sold. This Mini Cooper fighter will prove to be popular with buyers that are considering the Mini Cooper. Its tasteful and dashed with performance.



Citroen C1
What is it? A car shared with the Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 107.

Why should it be sold here? It's designed to be cheap. All this cost cutting features are unnoticed by the consumer. Its still fun to drive and offers more equipment than a Kia Rio. Plus its stylish a easy to park in the city. High mileage cars should be welcomed in the U.S.

Pathological makes lots of ruckus with the Fiat 500 Abarth

The Fiat 500 Abarth maybe the cheapest way to get the Italian flare that you desire; but is it worth the consideration?

The 1.4-liter multi-air turbocharged four-cylinder pumps out 160hp (157hp with auto gearbox) and well it does the job good enough. It does make a lot of racket and is very flamboyant the way an Italian Sports car should be. We do love the boy racer exhaust note and how quick it is when you really put your foot down. Our tester car came equipped with the manual gearbox and is the only way to have this piece of kit. You’ll want to row your own gears because there are slight hints of turbo lag at lower revs and well the torque seemingly disappears higher up the rpm band. It’s not the most refined power train compared with the Mini Cooper S and Ford Fiesta ST, but it certainly can hold its own considering that the 500 is smaller than both the Cooper S and Fiesta St. You’ll either love or hate the 500 charm because it does so in a way that makes you think long and hard about the sporting credentials that it is trying to pass off with the exterior styling. Ride comfort is a little firm but it’s far from uncomfortable while steering feedback is good but could offer a little more feedback, it does handle corners and bends well. The seating position is the biggest let down here; it feels like you’re sitting on top of the car rather inside of it.

Despite the front seats being a letdown and the rear seats being completely and utterly useless, the infotainment screen in our tester car was quite fiddly to navigate through. Many of the menus are very confusing and the tiny screen made it very hard to see some commands. Fit and finish of the interior is also on the iffy side as well. Visibility is pretty good except out of the back due to the fact that our tester car was a convertible which with the top down creates a massive blind spot that makes parking more irritating than it should be. Luckily for us our tester car came equipped with parking sensors, not that you need parking sensors for such small car. But it does come in handy when you have the top down. The boot space is pretty much on par with the Smart Fortwo, it’s very small but it does have some useful space for two people. The coupe version has a nifty hatch that is more spacious but not by much.

Our tester car came equipped with U-connect 5-inch touch screen display with Alpine premium audio system. Performance tuned suspension with sport mode and dual exhaust, as well as race-inspired bucket seats and leather-wrapped steering wheel. 17-inch alloy wheels and black trimmed lights were added as optional extras.

The Fiat 500 Abarth is loud and flamboyant the way an Italian Sports car should be. The engine does a good job and the overall impression of the vehicle is mostly good. We just wish that the Abarth were more comfortable to live with like the Mini Cooper S. We also wish that reliability record were much better. It’s a great little car with so much fun to be had behind the wheel but the tradeoffs make it so hard to justify.

Likes: Punchy turbo engine that’s loud and flamboyant, it really is fun to drive. It’s cheaper than the Mini Cooper S.

Dislikes: Build quality and reliability are iffy. The boy racer exhaust can get tiresome after a while. You can hear it a block away when you starting it up – driving it casually.

Our pick: Ditch the coupe and go right for the convertible. It may not be as practical but it is just as fun to drive and is the cheapest convertible with this much speed you can buy.

Volvo V90 CC is the best

The chances of Abba returning as a death metal band are higher than that of Volvo doing anything radical with its large wagons. The V90 Cross-country is proof of this. It’s stylish and luxurious with very little sport.

The sole 2-liter turbocharged/supercharged four-cylinder engine does a fine job of making the V90 CC feel flexible and comfortable to drive. However, we wish that the engine was more refined because it just doesn’t fit the luxury price tag that the V90 CC commands. Driving around town the V90 CC does feel comfortable and luxurious with light steering and easy to maneuver chassis. It doesn’t feel as daunting to drive as the size would suggest. We do recommend everyone to get the air-suspension, because in comfort mode the V90 CC feels like a dream car to drive. It’s a very pricey option but it just feels so worth spending the extra cash on. Steering feedback is not as sharp as you’d find on a BMW but it does the job good enough and well for those choosing this raised wagon it’s probably enough, it surely was for us.

We do love the infotainment system and the fit and finish the materials used feel high quality. Our only complaint is the several menus that can get very distracting while on the go. The front seats offer superb comfort while those in the rear will find plenty of comfort; however the large transmission tunnel does hamper space for the middle man. The boot space is very generous and with the rear seat folded down you’ve got yourself a cargo van.

Since there is only one trim, it is a very well equipped trim at that. 19-inch alloy wheels, Full-LED headlights, blind spot monitoring system and a laminated panoramic sunroof all come standard. You’ll have to pay extra for a 360 surround view camera, Park assist pilot  and graphical head up display. Our tester car came equipped with nearly every option we could imagine but the price tag was pretty hefty too at nearly $70k.

We didn’t get the chance to take the V90 CC off-road or any light off-road stuff. The all-wheel-drive did provide the traction needed especially when driving through the heavy rain storm that we encountered. The V90 CC really is in a class of its own. It’s stylish, comfortable and offers light off road use if needed. We just wish that the engine was more refined.

Likes: Stylish inside and out with plenty of practicality. Volvo’s legendary safety reputation lives on strongly in this example.

Dislike: Engine needs more refinement. Pretty pricey compared to the XC90.

Our pick: There’s only one trim and well that’s your only choice. You can option it out if you choose but that will make it pretty pricey compared to an XC90 with the same engine. We do however suggest getting the popular package and air-suspension which will keep the price within reason.

Pathological is swayed by the new Disco

We loved the Land Rover LR4 because not only was it a workhorse but it was also a seven-seat crossover that could ferry the family around in comfort and style. Those days are long gone and the new Disco is here to reclaim the crown that the LR4 held dearly in our hearts.

You can choose between two engines. The entry 3-liter supercharged six-cylinder pumps out 340hp and offers decent flexibility while the 3-liter turbo-diesel seems like the better choice for those who do tons of highway driving and also will be using the seven seats and carry luggage aboard. We personally didn’t get the chance to test the turbo-diesel engine as it wasn’t available, but the 3-liter supercharged unit felt up for the job. Our tester car didn’t come with any fancy bells and whistles. It was the HSE trim which we found to be all you need with the Disco in terms of standard kit.

Driving the Disco around town doesn’t feel like much of a chore as the size suggests. It really is easy to squeeze around tight parking spaces thanks to communicative steering which is enough for this vehicle. Parking aids also help take the sting out of it as well. The engine doesn’t lack in flexibility or refinement as it is silky smooth. We took it on the highway and found ourselves doing 80mph and not even feeling like it. Wind and road noise are so well suppressed that (dare we say) is better than a Mercedes S-class.

The driving position is spot on good with excellent comfort and refinement. The infotainment system is a little fussy to use at first but once you’ve gotten used to it, everything just falls into place. We love the simplicity of the interior although some may say that it is a bit plain. The second row seats offer good headroom and legroom, although those in the third row won’t really want to stay back there for too long. It isn’t as versatile as the XC90 which does the three rows of passenger comfort well. Boot space with the seats in place is about class average, but when you fold that third row seat down space opens up considerably. Fold the second row seat down also and you’ve got yourself a cargo van. The electrically folding seats do take a while to fold and unfold.

SE trim gets 19-inch alloys, rain sensing windshield wipers, automatic headlights and rear parking aid with visual display. You’ll have to step up to the HSE to get 20-inch alloys, LED headlights, powered inner tailgate and a 380watt Meridian Sound System. HSE Luxury adds a twin-speed transfer box, electronic air suspension, panoramic sunroof, heated seven seats and three-zone climate control. First Edition gets all terrain progress control, 21-inch alloys, surround view camera, intelligent seat fold and activity key.

You’ll have a hard time disliking the Disco because it really does offer more refinement than the LR4 and while we didn’t get the chance to take it off-road. We know that this will be as capable as the LR4 is. Our only concern is that Land Rover reliability record is still iffy.

Likes: Tough off-road and luxurious on-road, both engines are more than capable for the job. We love the way this thing looks.

Dislikes: Halogen headlights on entry-level SE.

Our pick: HSE Trim adds all the bits that you’d want with your Disco without pushing the price outside of the means of reason or logic. Those willing to dish out the cash should jump right for the First Edition.

The Mazda Miata is a real gem

The Mazda Miata is one car that every driving enthusiast should test drive or own in their lifetime.

The sole engine option for the Miata is a 2-liter four-cylinder pumping out 155hp. It may not sound like much but trust us when we say that it is plenty. The Miata is lightweight which translates to a 0-60mph timing of just 5.8 seconds which is wicked fast in our books. It doesn’t have the torque of a turbocharged engine but it certainly has the revs which makes it sounds so much better than any turbo engine we’ve driven. We didn’t get the chance to test drive the Miata with a manual gearbox but from what we’ve heard it really is the only way to go with this vehicle. The auto gearbox does the job good but it doesn’t replace a manual gearbox and it makes us want to go back and try to test drive one with a manual gearbox to compare between the two.

Driving the Miata is a unique driving experience in which we will never forget. The steering feedback is so linear and responsive that it can make many expensive options look overpriced. The chassis is the sweet spot on the Miata, we were able to sling it into corners and bends with pure confidence and with the amount of horsepower the engine produced it didn’t feel underpowered. Some will say that a turbo engine would be nice but we say the turbo engine is best ditched because this engine is just silky smooth and revs so sweetly. There is some wind noise that intrudes into the cabin as well as some road noise but it is far from a deal breaker.

The interior doesn’t feel as cramped as you’d expect a small roadster to feel. The driver and passenger seats both offer plenty of support and adjust ability. You won’t feel snugged inside the cabin with the roof up either, although taller drivers may want to test out headroom with the top up to see if they are still comfortable. Over the shoulder visibility is good while overall visibility outward to the rear is a little compromised but luckily there is parking sensors to help take the sting out of that. The Miata really isn’t a large car to begin with so you shouldn’t struggle much at all parking it. The infotainment system is actually quite easy to use with many of the menus easy to find but it can be a bit distracting while on the go. Also, the materials used inside of the cabin feel top-notch. Something you would expect from Mazda and after all they do have some of the best interiors for their price range. The boot space is adequate, but let’s face it people aren’t buying this car for practicality.

The Grand Touring trim which was our tester car came equipped with LED headlights, auto-dimming driver’s mirror, 17-inch alloys and leather trimmed sports seats. You also get a 7-inch touch screen display, keyless entry and rain sensing windshield wipers. The cheapest Miata you can buy is the Sport Trim which for many people is enough while the Club Trim does offer a bit more kit standard for not too much more cash. We’d certainly choose between those two trims with a six-speed manual gearbox rather than this configuration that we had as a tester, it’s nothing wrong with it but we’d ditch the auto gearbox.

The Miata is one of those vehicles you have to test drive or own before you go to your grave. It’s really a special vehicle that every driving enthusiasts will love; pure driving pleasure that’s simple and yet elegant. Bravo Mazda!

Likes: It handles like a dream. Engine doesn’t have much oomph but it makes up for that with excellent driving dynamics. Low running costs.

Dislikes: We didn’t bother listing any because they’re most likely just nitpicking. It really is that good.

Our pick: Go right for the entry-level Club Trim which seems to offer decent value for the money. Ditch the auto gearbox and go for the manual, you’ll save money and also you’ll enjoy the Miata even more.

We test drive a Mercedes Tank

The Mercedes G-class is proof that sometimes you can have more money than sense.

The G550 uses a 4-liter bi-turbo eight-cylinder pumping out 416hp, you can step up to a AMG G63 using a 5.5-liter bi-turbo eight-cylinder pumping out 563hp while the top of the range AMG G65 uses a 6-liter bi-turbo eight-cylinder pumping out 621hp. The G-class isn’t one of those Mercedes you’ll find a ton of on dealer lots. We were able to find the AMG G63 but the manager at the dealership turned us away as he only wanted buyers who were absolutely certain they were going to buy it to test drive it. The second dealership we tried also turned us away, even though we did state we were interested in buying, the G550 they had was already in the process of being sold. It became almost a chore trying to find one to test drive, but we did come across one dealer who was very eager to let us test drive the vehicle. In fact the G550 that we were given the keys to was the manager’s own personal vehicle. He didn’t seem to mind one bit and we managed to keep the G550 for two days.  We just had to keep our trips short and also paid extra close attention to literally everything we did because one scratch or ding would set us back a tremendous amount of money that neither of us would be able to pay.

We love the way the G550 looks but when it comes to driving it, that’s just a totally different story altogether! While the G550 isn’t a small thing, it feels very daunting to drive. The blind spots are massive and while we did get plenty of safety aids to help take the sting out of it, the steering wheel is just way too slow to react and it often feels overly light at low speeds. You could shimmy the steering wheel from one direction to the other and the vehicle will continue going straight. The only other vehicle that we tested with steering like this was in a Mitsubishi Mirage and that’s a sub-$15k hatchback. The saving grace for the G550 is the contagious engine note that made it so worth the cumbersomeness that you’ll have to deal with. We didn’t really do much venturing around town as we stayed in the suburbs and kept the trips to a minimum. We did want to venture downtown and see how well the G550 fit in but had to make do with the upscale suburbs and high-end grocery stores. We did get a lot of people staring at us, as if we were made of money. The one thing that we loathe about vehicles that stand out like the G-class is that even though you are just testing the car or renting it (in our case) people think that you have tons of money and want you to buy everything that they are selling. We know people who will buy this have to have the bank to afford it and keep it on the road, but that doesn’t mean we want to buy your whole wagon of cookies or donate to every charity!

Despite the rude treatment we received literally every place that we went, the G550 is such a comfortable feeling SUV which was a shocker to us since the platform is so old. The doors don’t make the typical thump sound to let you know that it’s of high-quality. It makes a very faint ‘dink’ sound as if the whole door is made out of aluminum or some light weight material. The driving position is pretty much straightforward, you won’t struggle to get comfortable at all, even though some will feel they are sitting on top of the car rather inside of it. The interior quality does feel up to par with Mercedes standards, we just wish that it had a little more flash. It seems as if Mercedes just updates it in a way to make it feel fresh, but the design is oh so familiar. It’s like they’ve changed nothing at all. The rear seat offers decent space for three, but you’ll have dirty pants every time you get in and out of the vehicle. The rear door has an awkward step in that makes it nearly impossible not to brush your pants or leg against the side of the vehicle. The tall yet boxy shape does give you plenty of headroom. You’d have to be over 6’7 to even complain about headroom in this thing. The boot opening is very awkward and the boot space in general isn’t really anything to brag about, not that anyone would be bragging about it because it’s most likely not going to be used for that purpose anyone. And if you do use it for that purpose you’re better off with a GLE AMG.

The G-class doesn’t really come with many options and the ones that are optional were ticked as standard on this tester car we had. The adjustable suspension comes in handy as you can switch the suspension to comfort mode and glide over all the bumps and imperfections on the road, we didn’t test drive it in sport mode as it felt rather foolish, especially since the G550 drinks gas like no tomorrow.

The G550 isn’t like any SUV on the road. We hadn’t had the chance to drive it off road or even on the light muddy fields. It’s pretty daunting to drive too considering that it really is smaller than the GLS and Cadillac Escalade ESV we’ve driven. The biggest problem with the G550 is that despite it being an older design with updates here and there, there really is no point to this vehicle. We know majority of those who buy this won’t even take it off-road where it was meant to be driven and very few will ever even drive on muddy fields. It seems like one of those cars you buy because you have the money to buy one and don’t care about how much you’ll have to pay in running costs. We certainly found the car to be just too daunting to drive, almost as if it were a chore rather than engaging or entertaining. Plus everyone everywhere thought we had deep pockets because after all this is a $125k plus vehicle. You either love it or loathe it. It was certainly met with mixed opinion. We returned it to the dealer and the dealer and the manager was willing to knock off almost $20k if we took it off his hands, but we couldn’t afford to keep gas in this thing, let alone the purchase price of it. We wanted to like the G550 as it is a special type of vehicle that not everyone can buy but money doesn’t buy tastes and the G-class is proof of that. It’s stylish but rubbish in everywhere else.

Likes: The eight-cylinder engines sound amazing. It’s designed for off-road use and has a luxurious interior. We love how the doors don’t make the typical ‘thump’ sound when closed.

Dislikes: It rubbish to drive anywhere that’s not off-road. The purchase price is just as high as the running costs and don’t get us started on the bling factor.

The Swedes are back in town!

BMW and Mercedes won’t be resting on their laurels much longer now that the new Volvo XC60 is here. It really is refreshingly non-German.

The standard T5 engine will suit most needs, but we reckon the T6 is the way to go. It really is a gem of an engine thanks to the supercharger attached to the turbo, acceleration is smooth and brisk while running costs aren’t illogical. The top of the range T8 plug-in hybrid has the most horsepower of the range and running costs that make it look sensible on paper, but in reality you’ll have to do tons of driving to make up for the purchase price. This is why we pick the T6 as you’ll see later, the price and standard kit makes up for the high asking price.

The XC60 doesn’t defy logic like the Porsche Macan and we certainly won’t fault Volvo for not aiming for that either. What the XC60 does offer is a comfortable driving experience that’s so refreshingly non-German that it’s hard to fault the slightly numb steering and somewhat dull on-road dynamics. You can choose the R-design if you want the sportier looks and the 4-corner air suspension which can help make the handling feel sharper in sport mode, but that air suspension doesn’t come cheap.

The infotainment system is very easy to navigate through, with all the controls and dials within easy reach of the driver’s hand. What we dislike about the touch screen infotainment system is that it can be quite distracting while on the go. The front seats offer superb comfort for both passengers while those in the second row won’t have much to complain about in terms of legroom and headroom. The boot space is quite generous considering the size of the XC60. Split folding rear seat help expand cargo holding versatility.

Our tester car was the T6 Momentum which came fitted with LED headlights, 12-inch touch screen infotainment system, auto dimming interior and exterior mirrors, heated front seats and steering wheel, 20-inch alloy wheels and cross traffic alert. You’ll nearly double the money on a BMW X3 with similar horsepower and all options that were ticked on our tester car. It may not be as sharp to drive as the X3 but we certainly forgive it because it really does feel like a breath of fresh air where it matters the most.

The XC60 certainly isn’t trying to be sporty, but a comfortable crossover that’s sensible and very stylish. The T6 engine is the way to go as it blends good performance with low running costs, while t hose willing to pay for the T8 Plug-in hybrid will have to do tons of driving to make up for the higher purchase price. Volvo is back and they are making it mighty hard to consider the German Norm. Ignoring this beauty means you’re certainly daft because it’s our top pick.

Likes: It’s refreshingly non-German. We love how comfortable it is to drive without being over the top like Porsche. The interior is posh and the engines are flexible with low running costs.

Dislikes: The turbo four cylinders may not appeal to everyone. We had to list something.

Volkswagen Tiguan Limited

The next generation of the Volkswagen Tiguan will be here soon, but you can still buy the current generation if it tickles your fancy.

The sole 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine isn’t the upgraded 2-liter turbo from the GTI but it still makes a respectable 200hp. You can have it with either front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive if you desire the extra traction. We hadn’t had the opportunity to test drive the front-wheel-drive form but instead had the Sport trim with 4-motion all-wheel-drive. The combo together doesn’t feel sluggish at all thanks to high torque at low revs and a smooth six-speed automatic. It really is a GTI on stilts because not only is it fast but it feels very agile where it matters most. It’s not GTI athletic but you’ll get our point here. Steering feedback isn’t as crisp as that of a GTI but it does the job better than some of its keen rivals. Where the Tiguan might fall short is on ride comfort, with the large alloy wheels it did feel a bit more firm than we’d like but the tradeoff is always decent handling and in our books that’s not really something to complain much of. Wind and road noise are well suppressed and the engine is mainly hushed at relaxed speeds.

The interior doesn’t feel up to par with some of its keen rivals but it still feels classy. The touch-screen infotainment system while it is easy to use, it still is distracting to use because of all the various menus. (We’ve said this about several infotainment systems and we will still think that they’re distracting while on the go.) The front seats offer plenty of support while the rear seat offers plenty of space for three abreast. The boot space isn’t as versatile as the Golf’s but it is a decent size and offers plenty of versatility when the rear seat is folded down.

We’d say it’s best to skip the S trims and the Wolfsburg trims as well and go right for the Sport trims. It comes with Bi-Xenon headlights, panorama sunroof, 18-inch alloy wheels and dual-zone climate control. You may pay a slight premium for it but we think that it is well worth it. The interior materials are much improved and the overall appearance makes the Tiguan feel like a classy package.

It’s hard trying to find the right compact crossover that fits you the best, especially with so many of them to choose from. But we’ve broken it down with this statement. Buy the Tiguan Sport or SEL because those are the classiest forms, everyone else is better off looking elsewhere because the Tiguan is less than average among heavy hitters like the Honda CR-V and Hyundai Tucson.

Likes: Turbo engine offers the flexibility we love. The interior is classy VW and the standard kit list is pretty good too.

Dislikes: The more expensive trims feel the classiest. The new Tiguan is around the corner and has three-rows of seats.

Our pick: Go right for the Sport or SEL trims. You may have to pay extra for them but they feel well worth the premium.

We drive a Maxima to the Max!

Nissan has made a lot of radical claims with the new Maxima. The first one being that the Maxima is a proper sports sedan like it used to be in it’s glory days. Secondly, the Maxima is more fun to drive than any other sedan in this segment. Radical claims require radical proof. Hand over the keys!

There’s only one engine that can be had with the Maxima and that’s a 3.5-liter six-cylinder pumping out 300hp. You’ll either love the Maxima or loathe it. We certainly had mixed feelings about it. The Maxima isn’t a dull to drive car as it blends comfort and agility quite well for a large sedan, but what lets us down is how off-putting the steering feedback is. You’ll want to hammer through corners and the chassis is willing but the steering gives you very little feedback where it matters the most. It’s like the chassis and the steering are on two different channels. You never feel all that confident when you want to drive it spiritedly. The engine is quite lovely when revved hard though and while you can only get this car with a CVT (continuously variable gearbox) it doesn’t feel all that lethargic as some other CVTs we have driven. The only problem with it is that it feels like it robs you of those valuable revs and even when you drive it in manumatic mode it just doesn’t feel rewarding to drive. It’s like Nissan thought they turned up the volume on the sport and instead turned up the comfort and turned off the steering. Driving the Maxima around town is quite easy actually thanks to light steering and the smooth ride comfort is always welcome. The Maxima is light on its toes on the highway and when you aren’t driving like a hooligan it is a very tame sedan with more to like than you’d think.

The infotainment system feels pretty much straight forward in design. Everything is within reach of the driver’s hand and while we love the touch screen system, the different menus can get a little distracting. What we loathe the most is the fussy Bluetooth Connectivity. We often found ourselves constantly having to reconnect our mobile device and when we were using our GPS to find a certain location the system just booted us out completely. The front seats are comfortable though with plenty of support and those in the rear won’t feel too shortchanged on space but the slopping roofline does mean that taller passengers in the back won’t be too comfortable. The boot space is actually good too.

Our Maxima was the top of the range platinum trim which comes with premium leather seats, around view camera monitor, driver attention alert and climate controlled front seats. Also fitted to our Maxima was heated steering wheel, navigation system, memory setting for front seats and adaptive cruise control. Despite it having the deep discount, we personally wouldn’t bother with it. Our pick would go to either the S or SL trim. Both offer really good value and decent amount of kit without being overly expensive like our tester car and with those discounts those trims are even more appealing.

Nissan has claimed that the Maxima is the sportiest sedan in its segment and well we think that Nissan has made radical claims without the actual deliverance of the goods. The 3.5 engine is amazing and the chassis is willing, we just wish that the steering was more tuned to match the handling and the gearbox was more in tuned to the engine. It’s such a shame that the Maxima has these short comings because if those were retooled this would be one hell of a sedan to drive and own.

Likes: We love the way it looks and the interior is pretty well laid out. The 3.5 six-cylinder offers oodles of flexibility and it’s comfortable to drive when you’re not driving like a hooligan.

Dislikes: The CVT robs the Maxima of its sporting nature. The steering and chassis are on two different channels. Bluetooth connectivity was fussy and too fiddly to operate.

R is for refined in the Golf-R

The Volkswagen Golf-R maybe the fastest of the Golf Range but it is also the most expensive. Does this mean that buying one is a false economy?

The 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder from the GTI has been upgraded to 292hp in the Golf-R. You can choose from a slick-shifting six-speed manual gearbox or the extremely quick six-speed DSG auto gearbox. We’d say the manual is the way to go but since there wasn’t one available at that time of the test drive we had to settle with the DSG gearbox which isn’t a bad option either. The gearing of the gearbox is perfectly matched to the engine and doesn’t feel like it’s sapping the horsepower away like it does in the Scion BRZ, and the fact that you have a large amount of torque at low revs helps the Golf-R feel responsive at low revs and it does have plenty of pull where it matters the most.

You won’t have to rev it high to get the most of the engine because power delivery is smooth and seamless. It’s much better than the Subaru WRX we tested a while ago which felt like it had turbo lag for days. Our only complaint about the engine is that it doesn’t feel any quicker than the GTI, sure the horsepower figures suggest more horsepower but the all-wheel-drive adds weight and while the suspension is firmer than that of the GTI. You can still option for a similar suspension in the GTI and have almost identical results. However, in the argument for the Golf-R if you’re looking at it vs the Subaru WRX STI; you’re better off with the Volkswagen as it is a much better package and far classier inside.

Driving the Golf-R doesn’t feel like any Volkswagen. The turbo engine does spool well and there’s plenty of oomph when you kick it into high gear. We love that it doesn’t feel like a hot hatch driving on the highway or around town. It has such a grown-up feel to it while the performance is what you’d expect from a hot hatch. We do however agree that the Ford Focus RS is insanely quicker thanks to 365hp and is slightly cheaper. The only problem with the Focus RS is that it’s a bit too showy in terms of the looks, while the Golf-R is more discrete in appearance. Something you’ll appreciate because the less attention you attract the better off you are! Trust us when we say this!

Our Golf-R came pretty well kitted and it wasn’t much more expensive than we’d thought it would. The only expensive option that was fitted was the DSG auto gearbox. Bi-xenon headlamps, push button ignition switch, DCC adaptive drive chassis and Park Distance Control are all fitted as standard as well as; 19-inch alloy wheels, Fender Premium audio system and power-folding exterior mirrors. Active safety features include Blind Spot Monitoring system, Lane Departure warning and Adaptive Cruise Control with active distance control to help keep your distance from the car in front of you.

The Golf-R is just as roomy as the GTI so we will keep this portion brief. The front seats offer extra support thanks to the sport seats and the comfort they provide are exceptional. The rear seats offer good comfort for two passengers, adding a third person to the rear seat will be pushing it due to the high transmission tunnel. The boot space is what you’d expect of a hot hatch, there’s plenty of it and when you fold down the rear seats you’ve got a small cargo van. The infotainment system is pretty easy to navigate through, with many of the controls and dials within easy reach of the driver’s hand. The Golf-R certainly doesn’t feel any different from the GTI in terms of the interior layout, but this isn’t a bad thing because we love the way the Golf’s interior looks and feels. Some of the materials used are much higher in quality due to the higher price tag the Golf-R commands.

The Golf-R is great for those willing to dish out the cash and wants the most expensive Golf of the range. Everyone else will be completely satisfied with the GTI and the performance pack that you can option for. We love the Golf-R and would certainly buy one in a heartbeat but it just doesn’t feel special compared to the GTI and it doesn’t feel any faster either. But compared to the Subaru WRX STI and Ford Focus RS, we’d choose the Golf-R as it is the classier of the two and has the most discrete image, because you have a hot hatch doesn’t mean it should scream look at me!

Likes: It’s easy to drive as a daily commuter car and has the performance that you desire in a hot hatch, plus the boot is spacious for such a small thing. It’s easy to live with and the suspension isn’t harsh or punishing.

Dislikes: It doesn’t feel special or faster than the GTI, plus it’s expensive.

We try to make sense of the BMW X6

Unless you really want the X6 and don’t mind paying the premium for it, the X5 is cheaper and much more practical. Here’s why:

The standard 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder producing 300hp already provides enough kick in your pants acceleration. So we question if the 4.4-liter turbocharged eight-cylinder producing 445hp is really worth paying the premium for. What separates the X6 from the X5 is the sweet handling and sharp steering. You’ll have to pay for the option to get the X6 to drive the way it should and at this price point it shouldn’t be an option. At least the engines are smooth in operation and are quite lovely to hear when under hard acceleration. Wind and road noise are very well hushed in the cabin.

BMW has a minimalistic approach to their interior designs, and the X6 is no exception. Everything is very easy to locate and everything is within easy reach of the driver’s hand. The new iDrive system is much more user-friendly. Drivers in the front will find comfort very easily while rear passengers may struggle for headroom and legroom. Plus the boot space is just down right disappointing. This is all due to the slopping roofline.

The X6 does come well equipped for the money. Keyless entry is standard, as well as iDrive infotainment system and Xenon Headlamps. Climate control and leather seats are also standard. One annoying thing about BMW is that you’ll have to pay for extra that should be standard. Such as heated front seats, keyless start and rearview parking camera, which you will need because rearward visibility is appalling!

 Buying an X6 isn’t a cheap proposition. But your investments should be well secured as BMW resale value is strong thanks to the badge. Running costs will be high unless you stick with the standard turbocharged six-cylinder which should be somewhat decent. Quality of the interior feels high class and well put together. Reliability should be good as with all BMW vehicles.

The X6 is aimed for those who seek something different. It’s quirky and odd way to be different too. It’s expensive too and you don’t get some premium features that should be standard. Plus you’ll have to pay the money to make it drive and handle the way that it should. Unless you really just have to have an X6 the X5 is cheaper and much more practical than the X6.

Likes: Handles and drives with the right options. It’s different and quirky yet holds its value well. Turbo engines both are powerful. iDrive system has been vastly improved.

Dislikes: Why does being different cost so much? You’ll pay an arm and leg to make the X6 drive the way it should, and some options at this price point shouldn’t be optional. You're better off with an X5.

Devon’s Choice: The standard 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder is all the engine you will ever need. It’s still expensive but running costs won’t be too bad.

We test drive the new Mini Countryman

Have you ever considered a Mini but was turned away because they were too small for you taste? Well cheer up, the Countryman is the newest and biggest Mini ever produced. It's nearly as large a Volkswagen Golf and is designed to appeal to a broader audience. With that said, does Mini have what it takes to draw those buyers in? Let's find out.

Performance: There are three turbo engines available. All three share their roots with the rest of the Mini line-up. Price conscious buyers will most likely choose the Countryman with the standard 1.5 turbo with 134hp. There's plenty of pace around town, while on the highway you'll have to rev it harder to get up to pace. Mid-range Cooper S uses a 2-liter turbo pumping out 189hp. Top of the range is the JCW trim which offers a more potent 228hp. Pick of the range depends on what you desire most from your Countryman. We suggest sticking with either the Cooper or Cooper S trims.  All three trims can be had with optional all-wheel-drive. 

Ride & Handling: Handling is agile with plenty of grip in corners, but it isn't as fun to drive as the standard hardtop or a Volkswagen Golf. The ride never really feels settled on rough surfaces and the steering weights up way too quickly when entering corners. 

Refinement: The engines rev smoothly and sound sporty, but too much engine noise can be heard at cruising speeds. Wind noise isn't the problem here, road noise intrudes into the cabin at high levels and makes long journeys feel tiresome. Both transmissions work well with the Countryman. The manual gearbox reverse gear is placed in front of first gear. This makes it very easy to accidentally select reverse instead of first gear. 

Behind the wheel: The Countryman follows design before user-friendliness, and you'll see it in the dashboard layout. The switches and controls feel like they are jammed in where ever there's space and the controls that you do need to operate the most feel fiddly to operate. It will take some time to get used to everything. The view out of the Countryman is spot on, with plenty of adjustments for the driver's seat and steering wheel. 

Space & practicality: There is plenty of room for four adults in the four seat configuration. The standard five seat configuration is just as roomy too but the limited shoulder room and foot room makes it feel like an over glorified four-seater. The boot is a decent size and offers plenty of room, but the seats don't fold completely flat which ruins the potential for versatility. 

Buying & Owning: The Countryman starting price is attractive, but keep in mind that the base trim is rather stingy on equipment. You'll have to pay the extra if you want the luxury features no matter what trim you choose. We highly suggest keeping the options list light if you want to keep the cost of your Countryman down. Fuel costs shouldn't be too bad if you stick with the front wheel-drive versions. Resale value should be strong as demand for the Countryman has been strong. 

Quality & Reliability: The Countryman has a premium image, but it is let down due to some very iffy looking plastics used inside the cabin. Some of the switchgear quality is so-so and the overall impression is mixed. Reliability record for Mini has been rather patchy. Mechanical reliability has been average. 

Safety & Security: Across the range you'll find traction control, electronic stability program and anti-lock-brakes. Some trims add all-wheel-drive which adds an extra leg in safety for winter driving and slippery surfaces. All trims come with front and side curtain airbags as standard. An engine immobilizer with deadlocks are standard, but an alarm system is only offered as optional. 

The Countryman is roomy for four and makes the most sense if you want something larger than the Clubman. However, compared to the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus. The Countryman seems a tad bit overpriced. The interior quality is iffy and the equipment level is just down right stingy. If you like the Mini Brand but wanted something a bit more practical. The Countryman is for you, otherwise we strongly suggest looking at some of its more sensible rivals. 

Devon's Pick: Mini Countryman Cooper S adds everyone's favorite turbo engine at a decent price that's hard to pass up. You can add Mini's all-wheel-drive system for a slightly hefty premium. The Mini with just front-wheel-drive combo more than enough for most drivers. 

Likes: Spacious interior for four passengers. All engines offer a very rewarding driving experience. Available all-wheel-drive system. 

Dislikes: Mini is stingy with equipment. The options you'll most likely want will push the price sky high. Ride comfort is rather disappointing. Dashboard layout is confusing with too many fiddly controls. Not as fun to drive as the Hardtop Mini.

Devon's Pick: There are several versions of the Countryman to choose from. Those who seek the Countryman but want it at a reasonable price, we strongly suggest sticking with the standard Cooper trim which seems to be the most reasonably priced. It may not be as engaging to drive as the Cooper S or JCW, but it does its job well. Running costs should be respectable too. The Cooper S is the more fun to drive trim thanks to the turbo engine, but you'll have to remember that Mini is rather stingy when it comes to equipment. So you'll have to pay a pretty penny to get one up to your desired specs. This is why we strongly suggest looking at the Countryman rivals first before settling with it. 

A taste of the Forbidden Fruit

Volkswagen Bluemotion
What is it? An ultra fuel efficient line of vehicles. With emissions ratings lower than a hybrid. With improved aerodynamics to lower drag coefficiency and other fuel efficient technologies used in sports cars to improve fuel economy.
Why is it illegal? U.S. has strict emissions standards on diesel engines. This makes it harder for European Automakers to design diesel engines for the U.S.



Fiat Panda 4X4
What is it? Based upon a small car called the Panda that's sold everywhere but the U.S.
Why it should be sold here? It's a cheap alternate to a Jeep. With better gas mileage. The small size with short overhangs means its great off-road. This car can climb a 35-degree incline. With a few extra horsepower, it can tackle a Land Rover off-road.



Audi A1
What is it? Audi's Mini Cooper fighter.
Why should it be sold here? It's a Mini Cooper with a splash of style inside out. The interior is upscale Audi and the price is very low. It's perfect for congested urban areas.







BMW 1-series
What is it? A hatchback version of the 1 Series coupe.
Why should it be sold here? Other than the affordable base price, the 1-series hatch is rear wheel drive. Making it drive just as good as the other BMWs but with more praticality. A perfect rival to the Volkwagen GTI and Subaru Impreza.




Mercedes A-class
What is it? A hatchback that's as small as a Honda Fit. But has more versatility than a small MPV.
Why should it be sold here? The A-class should've been sold here under the Smart brand. Sold as the Forfour, Smart would've done way better with this hatchback than the Fortwo.







Alfa Romeo MiTo
What is it? Alfa Romeo's smallest hatchback.

Why should it be sold here? Alfa Romeo has some of the most stylish Italian cars sold. This Mini Cooper fighter will prove to be popular with buyers that are considering the Mini Cooper. Its tasteful and dashed with performance.



Citroen C1
What is it? A car shared with the Toyota Aygo and Peugeot 107.
Why should it be sold here? It's designed to be cheap. All this cost cutting features are unnoticed by the consumer. Its still fun to drive and offers more equipment than a Kia Rio. Plus its stylish a easy to park in the city. High mileage cars should be welcomed in the U.S.

Awful pun inserted: This Mini is no 'club-head'

The Mini Brand offers tons of quirky niche vehicles that are fun to drive. But what if you want the quirkiest of the bunch? The Clubman is the Mini that will appeal to you the most.

Performance: The Clubman comes with a three engine options. The Standard Cooper trim comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder which is our favorite engine choice. The Cooper S comes with a familiar 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 189hp while the JCW uses the same 2-liter turbo pumping out an additional 228hp. You can choose the Cooper and Cooper S with optional all-wheel-drive while the JCW trim comes standard with all-wheel-drive. Pick of the range is the Cooper S trim which offers the best blend between performance, low running costs and price.

Ride & handling: The Clubman is just as fun to drive as the hardtop Mini. Even though the Clubman has a longer wheelbase, the overall feel in the corners and bends is still spot on. Ride comfort however isn’t as disappointing as the Countryman. Although the fun to drive character is still there, it still leaves a lot to be desired when compared to the hardtop Mini.

Refinement: The engines sound sporty and are fun to rev. The Cooper S and JCW versions offer the most engaging driving experience. Wind noise can be heard in the cabin at higher speeds but it’s far from intrusive. Some road noise will sneak into the cabin also. The manual gearbox gear pattern shoves the reverse gear in front of first gear, which makes it very easy for you to select reverse instead of first gear.

Behind the wheel: Even though the Clubman is bigger than your standard Mini hardtop, the seating position and overall view out of the car is still spot on. Only problem we have is the barn doors styled tailgate. It creates an awkward blind spot when parking and looking through the rearview mirror. The dashboard like other Minis is just fussy and fiddly to operate. Many of the controls are jammed in where ever there’s space, which makes it awkward and overly complicated to navigate through.

Space & practicality: This is where the Clubman shines. Thanks to the added length and wheelbase, there is plenty of space for actual passengers in the rear. Two adults can sit comfortably thanks to added headroom, legroom and even hip room. The newest Clubman has conventional rear doors. The boot is also well sized and shaped. The barn doors styled tailgate adds a touch of quirk to the overall appeal of the car.

Equipment: All three trim levels are equally equipped with the same level of kit. You’ll have to pay extra for desired features that should be standard. The Cooper S trim and JCW trim adds special body-kit trim and few other touches to separate them from the Cooper trim. If price is a concern for you, we’d suggest sticking with the Cooper trim and stay clear of the options list.

Buying & owning: The Clubman is slightly more expensive than the hardtop Mini, but in return you do get more space for rear passengers and a distinct image all round. Running costs shouldn’t be too bad thanks to decent fuel economy, while resale value won’t be a problem at all thanks to strong demand for the Mini Badge.

Quality & reliability: The Clubman and all other Minis have a premium small car image. It’s a shame that the interior quality is a big let down. Some switchgear and controls are iffy in terms of quality. Mini Customers are a happy bunch and rate Mini high in customer satisfaction, even though the company’s reliability record is patchy.

Safety & Security: Front and side curtain airbags are standard across the range. As well as traction control, electronic stability program, anti-lock brakes and a tire pressure monitor. An engine immobilizer is standard as well as deadlocks; you’ll have to pay extra for an alarm.

If you want the most distinct and quirky Mini of them all, the Clubman is clearly the choice hands down. It's just as roomy as the Countryman and the boot space is even more generous than it was before. The Clubman may not be as good as the Golf Sportwagen but it does have a strong case for itself.

Devon's Pick: Mini Clubman S is the most fun to drive of the range without being overly expensive like the JCW trim. You still have to pay extra for bits that you may want, but it's still entertaining to drive and the most popular form of the Clubman.

Likes: Fun to drive with roomy interior for four passengers. Decent running costs with quirky club doors and tailgate.

Dislikes: Some controls are fiddly to operate. Desired options push price sky high, while standard kit is considered stingy. Reverse gear too easily selected instead of first gear.

Devon’s Pick: The Cooper S is the best trim to pick. You may have to pay the premium price for it, but it offers the most engaging driving experience. All while offering decent running costs.

We test drive new cars (and of course) we critique

Hyundai Tucson

Likes: Standard kit list across the range is pretty impressive. The 1.6 turbo offers quick acceleration while the 2-liter is the most sensible in price. Plenty of room for five with a decently sized boot.

Dislikes: The front seats can get uncomfortable after long journeys. The turbo engine only comes with a DCT gearbox which isn't very refined compared to it's keen rivals.

Overall: It may not be the best out there but it certainly does make a winning case for itself.



Toyota CH-R

Likes: Dare we say the most stylish Toyota we've seen in a while. Standard kit is pretty good for the price. Running costs are very competitive.

Dislikes: No all-wheel-drive option yet. The rear passenger windows are a joke. Blind spot galore. It really needs a panorama sunroof to brighten the interior up.

Overall: Toyota has made a very daring looking crossover that also has bullet proof reliability.



BMW X1

Likes: It's more comfortable and more refined than the previous generation. The new turbo engine offers plenty of flexibility and the boot space is larger than it's keen rivals.

Dislikes: We miss the turbocharged six-cylinder option. We wish BMW made an M-tuned version of this. Options send the price into X3 territory.

Overall: It's a BMW but doesn't really feel like one.



Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross

Likes: One of the more stylish crossovers in Mitsubishi range. Turbo engine spools nicely and has decent running costs. It's much more entertaining to drive than we'd originally thought.

Dislikes: It carries a name that many will loathe it for.

Overall: We'd love to see an Evo-tuned version pushing 230 - 300hp.



Subaru Crosstrek

Likes: It's off-road capability can rival Land Rover. It's much more stylish than the previous generation and also less awkward looking in portions.

Dislikes: Subaru has given up on turbo engines and it saddens us.

Overall: The JDM versions of this vehicle has power-folding mirrors and other features we can't have here.

Pathological test drives a Hyundai Tucson

Hyundai has come a long way from being cars you’d buy because of heavy discounts to cars that are actually desirable. The Tucson has always been a bit of an oddball but with the newest generation, it may prove to be Toyota’s worse nightmare yet.

The standard 2-liter four-cylinder offers decent flexibility with or without all-wheel-drive. Pick of the range however would go to the 1.6 turbo which comes mated to a seven-speed automatic. You can option for all-wheel-drive if desired but we wouldn’t bother with it unless you really have to have the extra traction on slippery surfaces. Our tester (Tucson Sport) came with all-wheel-drive and handled quite well when the roads got slightly messy from an icy shower.

The Tucson feels much more upscale to drive than the previous generation. Handling is secure but nothing to brag about, while steering feedback is decent too. We’d strongly suggest looking elsewhere if you are looking for a more engaging driving experience because the Tucson even when equipped with the turbo engine is far from sporty. We do however applaud Hyundai for improving quality and refinement. Wind and road noise are well suppressed and only the sounds of the engine creeps in when you push the engine hard, even then it is far from intrusive or annoying.

The front seats offer decent comfort and plenty of adjustability. The steering also offers plenty of adjustments too. The infotainment system is easy to navigate through and the touch screen menu is easy to use and not as fussy as the one’s we’ve tested in Fords and Toyotas. Rear seat offers plenty of comfort for three and the boot space is decent with the second row seat in place and folded down.

No matter which Tucson you choose, all of them come well equipped and will satisfy most buyers. SE trim comes with 17-inch alloy wheels, rear-view camera, stain and order resistant cloth seats and 3.5-inch monochrome LCD instrument cluster display. Eco trim comes with power driver’s seat, fog lights, roof rails and drive select mode for the auto gearbox. Pick of the range Sport trim comes with 19-inch alloys, hands-free boot opening/closing; proximity key with keyless start and heated front seats. Top of the range Limited comes with dual-zone climate control, leather seating surfaces, LED headlights and auto-dimming rearview mirror.

SE and Eco trims come standard with a driver’s blind spot mirror while Sport and Limited trims get blind spot detection system and lane change assist. We’d love to see automatic emergency-braking with pedestrian detection standard on the Limited trim. Tire pressure monitoring system with individual tire pressure indicator is standard as well as electronic stability control, anti-lock brakes and brake assist. Roof-mounted side curtain airbags come standard with rollover sensors in case of a side collision or rollover accident.

The Ford Escape is slightly more engaging to drive and the Nissan Rogue offers a third row seat. However, the Hyundai Tucson isn’t all that bad. It offers decent kit standard and has low running costs from both engines offered. You’ll probably want to step up to the Sport to get all the goodies and all-wheel-drive really isn’t needed unless you absolutely have to have the extra traction. Overall the Tucson is the best compact crossover you can buy if you desire high content at a decent price but we wish that steering feedback was improved then the Tucson would be even better.

Likes: Loads of features for very little money. Turbo engine offers better flexibility and doesn’t cost much more. All-wheel-drive adds extra traction when desired. Interior much improved with easy to use infotainment system.

Dislikes: Resale value is questionable. Steering feedback is more on the so-so side. We wish the driving experience matched the looks.

Devon’s choice: The Sport trim offers all the goodies most will want without having to step all the way up to the Limited trim. Eco trim offers the turbo engine as well but is more geared towards saving fuel and is also worth considering if you have to have a crossover but don’t want a hybrid. 

Devon is impressed with the Mazda 6

If you’re in the market for a mid-sized family sedan, your first choice would be either the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord. However, if you’re only aware of those two choices, you’ll be missing out on the vast number of offerings in this segment. One of them being the unjustly ignored Mazda 6, in our opinion is the best money can buy. Here’s why:

The Mazda 6 can only be had with a 2.5 four-cylinder engine pumping out 185hp. It may not seem like much but this engine really is up for the job. It offers plenty of flexibility around town and on the highway, plus it has low running costs which makes it one of the better overall values compared to most in the competition. We know that it doesn’t offer a turbocharged four-cylinder like the Fusion or a six-cylinder like the Honda Accord. But not everyone cares about horsepower figures, it’s all about the driving experience and with the Mazda 6 you surely won’t be let down.

Steering input is so smooth and responsive that you’ll think this were a sports car rather than a four-door sedan. Handling and ride comfort has a near perfect balance. Some may find that there’s a bit more road noise than some of its keen rivals, but this is far from a deal breaker. Overall refinement of the cabin is top notch and comparable to even some of the more established offerings.

Slip behind the wheel of the Mazda 6 and you’ll be greeted with what we think is the best interior of the segment. The controls and dials are all laid out logically and are within easy reach of the driver’s hand. The driver’s seat and passenger seat are both comfortable and offer plenty of support, while rear passengers get plenty of space. A third person may find some discomfort with the transmission tunnel and somewhat lacking of an actual middle seat. The boot space is generous too but not as flexible as a hatchback or wagon. But that is merely nit picking at best.

The Mazda 6 can be had with three trim levels. Entry-level sport comes with auto-off headlights, cruise control, Bluetooth hands free connectivity for your mobile device and push button ignition switch. You’ll have to step up to touring to get 19inch alloy wheels, automatic climate control and Mazda Advanced Keyless Entry system. Top of the range grand touring gets LED headlights, Bose sound system and leather trimmed seats.

The Mazda 6 really does offer a compelling option for those who enjoy driving and don’t want to conform to the usual class favorites from Toyota and Honda. It’s sporty to drive, has low running costs and is an overall stylish package that’s well equipped. How this isn’t gaining much attention baffles even us, because many are seriously missing out on the most multi-talented options out there. This is worthy of being on your short list indeed.

Likes: Engaging driving experience. Stylish inside and out, standard kit is generous and running costs are low.

Dislikes: There’s no wagon, all-wheel-drive or turbocharged four-cylinder engine to option for.

Devon's choice: The touring trim is the pick of the range. It offers slightly more kit than the sport trim and isn't as expensive as the grand touring.

Cheapest BMW, shortchanged on BMW experience?

The X1 was a bit of an oddball when it was first launched. It wasn’t that much cheaper than an X3 and the interior didn’t even live up to the standards that BMW had set. Fast forward to the newest generation of the X1 and you will either love it or loathe it. In simpler times it’s no longer rear wheel drive. Has BMW sold its soul?

The sole 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine offers plenty of flexibility thanks to high torque at low revs. You won’t feel short changed on power either, but those seeking more power will have to venture to the Mercedes GLA AMG. We feel that this engine is enough for this car. It doesn’t feel underpowered and it certainly is quick on its toes when you need it to be. We love how the combination of comfort and sport translates well around town and on the highway. You will love driving the X1 in tight corners and bends, as it handles them well. You’ll almost forget that the X1 uses a front wheel drive Mini Platform. The engine is also used in the JCW tuned Minis. Steering feedback is generally responsive and well sorted and the ride comfort on some surfaces is a little firm, this highly depends if you stick with the standard alloys and don’t option for the larger 19-inch alloys like our tester car has.

The front seats offer plenty of support and adjustment while there’s plenty of headroom and legroom. Those in the rear seat will also find that comfort and space is generous. The boot space is actually quite good considering that the X1 size. The infotainment screen is easy to navigate through, with all the controls and dials within reach of the driver’s hand. We love the minimalistic approach the interior but some could easily say that it’s a bit boring looking compared to rivals from Audi and Mercedes. We can say that it is easier to navigate through and the materials do feel just as classy.

Our tester car came kitted with electronic stability control, dual zone climate control, rain sensing windshield wipers and split folding rear seat. Optional extras included a business navigation system, cold weather package along with driving assistance package. We wish that our tester car came with the optional LED headlights because the standard halogen headlamps are weak in comparison and are not up to BMW Standards.

You won’t feel shortchanged with the X1 until you look at indirect rivals for similar money. Badge snobs won’t care because it’s a BMW and that’s all that matters.

Likes: It’s the cheapest of the BMW crossover range. The turbo engine is smooth and has low running costs. We love this one more than the previous generation X1.

Dislikes: Front-wheel-drive platform may scare off BMW Purists. We would love to see an M-tuned version.