Devon tries to find purpose for the BMW X6 (Used)

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 400hp 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 respond to articles on the internet

In its most general sense, a fair use is any copying of copyrighted material done for a limited and “transformative” purpose, such as to comment upon, criticize, or parody a copyrighted work. Such uses can be done without permission from the copyright owner.

I decided to respond to an article I found on the internet that list reasons why he won’t buy a luxury car. I understand that some people just don’t want to have a flashy car, but these few people don’t understand that regardless of what car you own, people will have some type of pre-judgement about you regardless, and with that being said let’s jump right in. Six reasons why I don’t want to own a luxury car. 

People will assume things about me that I don’t want them to assume.

[It won’t matter what car you own, people will have some form of assumption about you. Whether you buy a $90k BMW or a $20k Kia, people will assume things about you that aren’t even true. You bought a new car you must have money, etc. If you want that BMW buy it, or if you want that really nice Volkswagen buy it. We only live once and to allow assumptions of other people to dictate what car you drive is pretty stupid. People will assume things about you whether you drive new or not. It’s up to you if you choose to listen to those people or not.]

I become a more obvious target for theft.
[The most stolen new car is a Nissan Altima and the most stolen used car is a 1996 Honda Accord. Both of these vehicles are far from being luxurious. I also looked up the most stolen luxury car and that’s a Mercedes S-class, now that we’ve gotten that out of the way. Older cars tend to be a higher target for theft because they are easier to steal due to lack of theft protection. Also, there are some older vehicles with parts that are much easier to sell and make a profit off of, as with most luxury cars the parts are marked which makes them harder to sell because some parts can’t be reused on any other car once removed. I don’t understand your ‘target’ reason for not wanting a luxury car. You can have a Honda and be a target; you could have a Kia and be a target. Thieves go after the easiest cars they can get their hands on.]

Depreciation is even more painful.
[It depends upon the brand you buy from. Audi and BMWs tend to hold their value way better than let’s say Mercedes or Maserati. Most cars depreciate the most within the first three years of ownership. So, unless you’re leasing your cars and give them back so you won’t have to worry about the hit in depreciation, this reason is also a weak one.]

I have to travel much further to get repairs done.
[No matter what car you purchase, some repairs will have to be done at the dealership and yes you will have to travel to the dealership. I’d rather make the drive to the dealership and get my vehicle properly fixed under warranty than to go to my mechanic who may or may not know how to work on newer vehicles with all these high tech features. You can buy a new Kia and still have to take it to the dealer for certain repairs.]

The normal behavior of children is more costly.
[Leather seats are actually a lot easier to clean than you’d think. Cloth seats tend to absorb moisture which makes them harder to clean if your kids spill juice on them. Regardless if I have a Honda Pilot or Mercedes GL, I will be very upset if my kids spilled juice in the car. This is why if you have kids in the car, buy spill proof products for them or have them wait until they are at home or at the destination you are intended to go to.]


I would be scared to breathe in it.
[So what you’re saying is, you’d feel better in a $20k Kia? Here’s my thing about this statement here, you can have a new car and have that new car anxiety. You can have a used car still have that same exact anxiety. When you switch from one car to another, you have to readapt yourself to that particular vehicle all over again. It doesn’t matter if it’s an Audi, Mercedes or BMW. When you buy a new car you have to readapt to that vehicle because it’s a totally different vehicle. I fear people hitting my car and I drive a $20k Mitsubishi. It doesn’t matter the price of the vehicle, the fear of others being jealous of what you have is an actual fear for anyone.]

Answering car questions

We decided to respond to car questions found on the internet.

What is the purpose of an automobile clutch pedal?
What happens when you push on the clutch pedal? Explain it in the most simplist way as possible.

Cars with a clutch pedal (three-pedal layout) are manual transmission cars. The Clutch pedal is simply there to allow you to shift between gears. Most modern cars you have to depress the clutch pedal before turning on the engine.

Car Dealer Question?
Can a car dealership purposely sell you a car knowing there would be financial repercussions without telling you beforehand?

A car dealership will try to sell you a car regardless if you can or can't afford it. I strongly suggest doing your homework before going into a car dealership and know exactly what you can and can't afford. You don't want to put yourself in a financial crunch paying for a car that you cannot afford. A car dealership will hype the car up because they want the sale and want you to pay the most as possible because the more money you spend the more profits they make in return. Yes, they will make the car look lavish and awesome until the first payment is due.

Im buying my first car tomorrow?
I’m 18 years old & tomorrow I will be buying my first car by myself with my own money. I don’t have any support from my parents & they told me that they didn’t want to come with me so I have to go through this all by myself even though I wanted them there. I’m having a friend of mine drive me to the dealership & I have no idea what I should bring or how this will all go down. I’m also paying for the car in cash. Can anyone explain the process step by step for me? Thank you.

Listen to me when I say this. Do not! I repeat do not go to a dealership by yourself! Car dealerships love consumers such as yourself who has no clue about buying a car. They will take advantage of your lack of knowledge and put you in a auto loan that you can't afford. I strongly suggest taking someone who has experience buying a car and knows exactly what you should and shouldn't buy. Also, someone that knows if you're being taken advantage of. Buying a car is a huge responsibility, so take someone who can give you tips and guide you through the car buying experience.


IS it possible to import a Mercedes X class into the US?
With the X Class being Mercedes first ever true pickup, selling to the US seems like an option. Though due to the workings of the pickup truck market in the US, as well as what Mercedes is known as in the US vs. the rest of the world, Mercedes doesn t see the US market as being worth the time. But despite this, some Americans might find the X class to be appealing. So With that, is there any possible way to import an X Class to the US?

I agree with you. It would make a lot of sense if Mercedes sold the X-Class here along with the commercial vans they sell. However, I strongly suspect that the reason Mercedes isn't going to sell the X-Class here has to do with the simple fact that it would cost a lot of money to make it street legal here in the U.S. Also, the X-Class would be far too expensive compared to the Ford F-150 and Dodge Ram pickups that dominate U.S. sales. Lincoln tried to sell a 'luxury pickup' and failed miserably.


You are buying a new car.you have to choose transmission (automatic or manual),color (red,blue or white) and body style (Suv,hatch batch or?

I'll answer this question as if I were getting ready to buy a new car today. I would choose a Kia Sportage EX. It only comes with an automatic gearbox. Color, I'd choose blue. Body style, well it's an SUV of course.


Why is 2014 3X more expensive than 2012?
I found a 2012 MB S-class for $10k but can't find a 2014 S-class for less than $30k. Why are they so expensive??

The cheapest BMW X3 I found was $11K and the most expensive going as high as $23k. BMW tends to hold onto their value a lot better than Mercedes. However, I strongly suggest if you are considering an X3 to go for the more basic version. BMW tends to shove a ton of technology into their vehicles like Mercedes. The more tech the more prone to reliability issues you'll have, and the higher your repair bills are going to be. The Mercedes S-class has dreadful resale value because most tend to get rid of them after the lease is up and buy another one. Luxury cars tend to fall apart after warranty because of all the tech that's shoved in them and most (not all) tend to not really take care of them.

Should I sell my car now?
I have a nissan Alt 150,000 miles and I honestly want a Nissan 370Z. Some of my friends are saying sell my car now for the 370 but I’m thinking I should just wait till my car breaks down then get it.

Sell now!! Get rid of the car while it still working and you'll able to get something back from it if you are trading in at a dealership. You'll make more money selling yourself privately. However, don't wait until it breaks down. It will be harder to get rid of the car and you'll get far less for it in terms of value.

BMW or Mercedes and why?
I like BMW because aesthetically and performance wise it is closer to a spy mobile then a Mercedes which seems more like a limousine to me.

I'd go with BMW (3-series touring) over Mercedes. I honestly think the 3-series touring is the best BMW they have in their range and it's sad that they won't be selling them here in the U.S. after 2019. The 3-series touring is sporty to drive. It has a roomy interior and is all the car you'll ever need without compromising to an SUV or sedan. I like Mercedes products but they've never been eye appealing to me, and also they tend to be very problematic.

I need to get car repod. I plan on buying a car 3 weeks after the repo . Do i have to be worried? Im 20 btw.?

I don't think you understand the severity of getting your car repoed. When your car is repoed, the bank sells the car at an auction and you're stuck paying the remaining balance. Not only are you left with the balance but you are also left with a huge negative impact on your credit score. They (banks) will see this on your credit history and not want to give you an auto loan, or if they do it will be very high interest rates. I strongly suggest sitting down and figuring out your financial situation first and see ways that you can get out of your lease or loan to avoid repo.

Devon test drives the 3-series coupe replacement (Used)

BMW wants to separate the coupes from the sedan. Thus the 3-series coupe is no longer the 3-series coupe it’s the 4-series coupe, with a new platform to separate it from the 3-series sedan. Has BMW achieved new feat?

The 428 uses the familiar turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine pumping out 240hp. Top of the range 435 trim uses a 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder pumping out 300hp. Pick of the range is the more sensible 428 trim. You can have both trims with all-wheel-drive but we only suggest adding this option if you really need the traction or live in snowy areas where rear-wheel-drive will be cumbersome.

Our biggest gripe with BMW is the optional adaptive M suspension which is only optional and not standard. With this option the 4-series drives the way it is supposed to, we still have yet to drive a BMW without this expensive option and we’ve been put under the impression that BMW doesn’t want you to either. But at least with this option everything feels right and with the suspension set at comfort the daily commute with this car is actually quite comfortable. Slip it into sport mode on tight corners and bends you’ll be treated to an amazing experience as long as the road isn’t too lumpy and bumpy. This will bring out the firmness of the suspension which is to be expected of course.

The driver’s seat offers plenty of support and adjustments. You’ll find a seating position that best fits you to a tee. The dashboard looks like it was taken from a 3-series sedan. This is not a bad thing, however sticking a 4-series badge on this coupe we were hoping BMW would jazz up the interior more since the price tag has been jazzed up. At least there’s plenty of ample space four two in the rear seat and the boot offers decent cargo space.

All three trims are equipped pretty much the same. The only real matter of picking between all four is if you want a faster engine and do you want it with or without all-wheel-drive. We were a bit appalled that Bluetooth isn’t even standard across the range. You can buy pretty much a ton of cars not even in the same price bracket with Bluetooth standard. The standard form doesn’t even get real leather seats. But at least you get bi-xenon headlamps, rain sensing wipes and iDrive on-board computer with 6.5 inch display.

Buying a 4-series won’t be a cheap proposition because most of the options that you’ll want aren’t cheap. Plus you’ll have to pay to make the 4-series drive and handle the way it supposed to. Discounts will be hard to come by too, but resale value will be strong as will all BMW vehicles plus you won’t really have to worry about safety because BMW has that sorted well.

The 4-series maybe sleeker than the 3-series sedan but we still aren’t convinced that it’s any different from the 3-series sedan. Dynamically they feel the same and interior wise they look the same. Some may not be ready to fully accept the 3-series coupe new replacement. On paper the 4-series is a great coupe but in reality there are a few short comings we would strongly look into first before fully making up your mind.

Likes: Styling is sleeker and slightly more appealing design than the 3-serie sedan. With the right options the 4-series is a dream to drive.

Dislikes: So many options and so many of them are expensive. Bluetooth not standard is absurd. Interior doesn’t look or feel any different from 3-series sedan.

Devon test drives a 5-series with split personality (used)

The 5-series Gran Turismo is supposed to be a real Jack of all trade. It's a hatchback with 4x4 driving position and executive saloon interior space. Not to mention the splash of BMW dynamics, but in the times with gas prices rising will BMW be able to convince buyers to consider one?

Likes: Luxurious interior, plenty of space for four, clever tailgate design, effortless engines.

Dislikes: Quite expensive to buy and running costs are high, not as sharp to drive as a BMW should be.

Performance: There are two engines available for the 5-series GT. A 3-liter turbocharged six-cylinder with 300hp and a 4-liter turbocharged eignt cylinder with 400hp. Both engines offer effortless pace and are loads of fun to drive. Picking between the two however depends on the depths of your wallet. All-wheel-drive is optional, too.

Ride & Handling: The 5-series has a smooth ride, but handling isn't as sharp as you'd expect from a BMW. Steering is sharp and the response is great. Both engines provide a high degree of passing power. Put your foot down and you'll feel the turbo kick in. It feels like the 5-series GT is better suited for motorway driving than twisty narrow roads.

Refinement: Wind and road noise are both well suppressed. You'll enjoy a smooth quiet drive in the city and on the motorway. Both engines are hushed at most speeds, the eight-cylinder engine has a lovely grunt when revved hard.

Behind the wheel: There's no doubt that you'll find a driving position that suits you best. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and height, as well as the driver's seat. The dashboard is your typical minimalistic BMW design. Everything feels high quality, but is user friendly and easy to nagivate. However, the fidly iDrive is best avoided.

Space & Practicality: The 5-series GT is strictly a four-seater vehicle. The driver and front passenger will get comfortable easily, and so will rear passengers. The boot isn't massive, but it offers a quirky trick up its sleeve. The trunk can be opened like a saloon, or a hatchback for added versatility. For the price however, we don't think it's really worth paying the premium.

Equipment: The 5-series GT comse well equipped. Even the base model comes with Xenon-headlamps, panorama glass roof, keyless start and parking sensors. You'll need the parking sensors because of the small rear windscreen. This leaves you with big blind spots for merging and parking.

Buying & Owning: The high asking price says it all. It's not cheap, and you'll need deep pockets for the running costs. The turbo six-cylinder returns 30 miles to the gallon on the highway. Discounts are available but not huge, and resale value should prove to be strong.

Quality & Reliability: The interior feels classy and well put together. The materials used feel sturdy and have a long lasting look and feel. Reliability should be good as with all BMWs. However, reliability of the electronics long-term should be a bit of a worry.

Safety & Security: The 5-series GT comes with side-curtain airbags, side impact airbags, traction control and anti-lock-brakes all standard across the range. An engine immobiliser and deadlocks are standard, however an alarm system is optional.

The 5-series GT is like no other car on the road. You may be a little disappointed at its on road dynamics. It doesn't really feel as sharp as a BMW should, and the price is quite high for what it is. There are luxury 4x4s that are cheaper to buy and cheaper to run. So is it a real Jack of all trades? Well it offers decent space for four passengers, and the boot is clever in design. But it fails to be a real luxury 4x4 alternate, and the price is just too high to justify.

Devon M 

Devon test drives the new 320i sedan

If you considered a BMW 3-series in the past, most likely you were turned away because of the BMW price tag. The new 320i however knocks $3,000 off the price tag and a much less powerful turbocharged four-cylinder engine. This all sounds good on paper, but are you really buying a 320i because of the badge? Let’s find out.

Performance: The 320i comes with the same 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder but only produces 180hp instead of 248hp. Most will think it’s too watered down, but in our opinion we found this engine to be quite enough. City and highway driving never felt underpowered and the overall impression of the engine itself is quite good. Fuel economy isn’t too much different than the 330i which is a little disappointing considering the decrease in horsepower.

Ride & Handling: The 320i rides and handles the way a BMW is supposed to. Sharp handling, precise steering and excellent body control. The all-wheel-drive version has oodles of grip, but the sweet spot is the rear-wheel-drive configuration. You can really kick the car into corners and it feels much lighter and more engaging to drive hard.

Refinement: Some wind noise will sneak into the cabin at highway speeds. This however can be drained out when you turn the radio on. Road noise and suspension noise are well suppressed. The turbo engine has an addicting turbo whirl that adds a bit to the overall sporty nature of the car.

Behinid the wheel: Drivers will be greeted with plenty of adjustments for the driver’s seat and steering wheel. The instrumental panel has a minimalistic approach in terms of how the controls are laid out. Most are hidden away in the standard iDrive system. BMW has vastly improved the interface and made it less fiddly than the previous version.

Space & Practicality: There is plenty of space for both front and rear passengers. Headroom and legroom are plenty. The boot offers a decent size too, although you’ll have to pay extra for split folding rear seats.

Equipment: The 320i comes well equipped considering that the price drop between it and the 330i. Automatic climate control, iDrive interface, and an eight-speed automatic are standard. You’ll have to pay extra for leather seats, xenon headlamps and a sunroof. Considering the amount of kit you get already, the only option that makes sense would be the Xenon headlamps. The cool corona ring day-time running lamps are definitely worth the extra money.

Buying & Owning: The 320i doesn’t really offer much of a fuel advantage over the 330i, which is disappointing because it would broaden the appeal. The price between the two trims isn’t that significant to really make this version of the 3 series a real bargain. Running costs should be decent if you keep a light food on the accelerator pedal, resale value should be strong as with all BMW Cars.

Reliability: The quality materials used inside the cabin are up to par with the price tag. Everything feels high quality and long lasting. Although some plastic around the glove compartment look rather cheap, reliability is reasonable for the 3 series.

Safety: Front and side curtain airbags are standard as well as knee airbags for front passengers. Adaptive brake lights, anti-lock brakes with traction control and electronic stability program should help aid in traction. An engine immobilizer and anti-theft deterrent keeps theft at bay, an anti-theft alarm is optional.

The 320i is the cheapest way into the 3-series line-up. It may skip a few of the desirable features that you’d want, but for the price and what it offers it’s quite enough. However, like all cars there are downsides. The fuel economy benefits aren’t significant compared to the 330i. Some may view it as a watered down 3-series, while others will say there are rivals that offer much more for this price. If you like the BMW badge but couldn’t afford a 330i, this maybe your new way in. Otherwise we’d say go with the 330i.

Likes: Attractive starting price should lure new buyers. Sharp steering and handling, turbo engine is smooth and doesn’t feel underpowered. Halogen headlights are weak.

Dislikes: Some will see it as a watered down 3-series. No fuel economy benefit compared to the 330i which has 68 more horsepower. Add on the options and this entry-level is about as expensive as the 330i. 

Poor Build Quality (Old)

Jaguar XF ($51,000)
Jaguar has replaced the aging S-type with the new XF. The XF displays sleek new styling and a more advanced technology that has never been offered in previous Jaguars. Although its styling is pretty, reliability is not up to par. In fact, Jaguars consistently score low in initial quality surveys. Unless you have deep pockets. You're better off buying from BMW or Mercedes-Benz.



Land Rover Range Rover Sport ($59,000)
Land Rovers are known for their ability to provide luxury both on road and off. Although the average buyer won't take these machines off-road. Many of these vehicles will spend most of their lives in the repair shop. That is if you find that one Land Rover that actually is reliable. Just like Jaguar, Land Rovers suffer from poor reliability ratings. To sum it up, you buy a Land Rover as a status symbol.



Volkswagen Beetle ($17,000)
The Volkswagen Beetle is known for its cute iconic design. With a 2.5liter five-cylinder rated at 150hp and a six-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy is so-so, but interior quality is typical Volkswagen. When you buy a New Beetle, make sure that you get rid of it after the warranty is over. Many owners have complained of electrical problems and even major mechanical problems well after the warranty is over. Even though its cute, the build quality is terrifying.


Automatic BMWs
BMWs are dream cars for many. Most people lease them and trade them in for newer models. Once traded in, people flock to buy them used. This is where all the problems begin. Even if certified pre-owned, these automatics should be avoided at all costs. Most customers complain that the transmission hesitates or won't go in reverse at all. German cars aren't cheap to fix. BMW tends to be a little pricier to fix than the average German vehicle.

Devon M 

Devon's Coverage of Auto Show (Final Part)

BMW X6
Likes: Upscale interior, high-tech hybrid drivetrain, slightly improved gas milage without giving up peformance.

Dislikes: Hybrid and 400hp V8 don't exactly mix, hybrid premium over gasoline counterpart.

Overall: A pointless vehicle made even more pointless.


Volkswagen Touareg
Likes: Well appointed interior, improved styling, improved gas milage.

Dislikes: Very strange name, hybrid commands $13,000 premium.

Overall: If you ignore the name, you'll find this is one great SUV for the money.


Cadillac CTS-V Wagon

Likes: 556hp! Available six-speed manual gearbox, roomy upscale interior.

Dislikes: Can get seriously expenisve with options.

Overall: Currently the only wagon with 556hp in the market right now.


















Mazda 2

Likes: Stylish exterior design, small but very spacious interior, value for money factor.

Dislikes: Feels a bit waterd down compared to Fiesta, no six-speed automatic, more power would be nice.

Overall: A cheaper alternative to the Ford Fiesta.



Buick Regal

Likes: Very stylish exterior design, interior feels very upscale, available turbo engine.

Dislikes: Base engine disappointing for a luxury car, rivals offer better fuel economy and weigh less.

Overall: A large step forward for Buick. If only this had happened years ago.




Ford Taurus

Likes: Slick exterior design, handsome interior, comfortable front seats.

Dislikes: For such a large vehicle the interior is small, turbo engine only available with SHO trim.

Overall: A home-run hit by Ford.


Jaguar XJ

Likes: Unique styling, light weight aluminum architecture, plenty of power to choose from, a very interesting alternate to the Mercedes S-class.

Dislikes: Styling may not appeal to some, interior virtural guages are a huge let down, Jaguar's spotty reliability record.

Did you know? The supercharged 510hp version can accelerate from 0-60mph in 4.4 seconds.


Porsche Boxster Spyder

Likes: Affordable for a Porsche, two trunks, stays true to Porsche's hertiage.

Dislikes: Options are expensive, converting from coupe to roadster takes a bit of effort.

Overall: An excellent vehicle with true focus to performance.

Dodge Challenger

Likes: Retro styling that turns heads, tons of engine options, All-American Muscle Car.

Dislikes: Interior feels cheap, top of the range trim level is a bit expensive.

Driver's Choice: 5.7liter V8 400hp mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.













Hyundai Elantra

Likes: Very eye appealing design, loaded with standard safety features, improved fuel economy.

Dislike: Feelsl ike all style and no substance, resale value is still questionable.

Overall: Toyota and Honda should be very scared right about now.


Mercedes E-Class

Likes: Elegant design inside out, roomy rear seat for a convertible, plenty of cargo space with top up and down.

Dislikes: Expensive.

Did you know? The E-class convertible has a Aircap makes it possible to have conversations at speeds of 75mph with the top down.

Devon M

Devon's Coverage of the Auto Show (Part Three)

BMW X3
Likes: Styling looks much better than previous form, more spacious interior, available turbo six-cylinder engine.

Dislikes: BMW premium pricing, no more manual transmission.

Overall: People choose this over the much better way less expensive 3 Series Wagon?




Acura TSX Wagon

Likes: Stylish wagon inside out, plenty of cargo space and people space, fuel thrifty four-cylinder.
Dislikes: No V6 engine option.
Overall: Although the wagon breed of vehicles is dying. Acura presents reasons why there's still hope in this segment.



Toyota Corolla
Likes: Refined interior, sense of near-Lexus quality, impressive amount of standard features.
Dislikes: Styling still bland, Toyota's reputation has been ruined by recalls, manages to be boring even with more power and sporty styling.
Overall: A soulless, dull appliance.

Honda Accord Crosstour

Likes: Excellent fit and finish, available four-wheel-drive, comfortable front seats.

Dislikes: Styling is just plain weird, slopping roofline creates blind spots.

Overall: Just a taller heavier Accord with more cargo space.


Ford Explorer
Likes: Spacious interior, styling that's very eye appealing, four-wheel-drive that's a major improvement over previous generation.
Dislikes: Turbo form doesn't offer four-wheel-drive, does Ford really need this SUV?
Overall: One of the several reasons why Ford should be reconsidered.


Land Rover LR4
Likes: Luxury combined with excellent off-road abilities, commanding seating position, powerful V8 engine.
Dislikes: Fuel economy, Land Rover's poor reputation for quality.
Overall: A decent SUV, but there are rivals that have better build quality and improved fuel economy.

Devon M 

Devon's Coverage of the Auto Show (Part Two)

Dodge Charger
Likes: Bold new exterior design, interior has a higher quality feel to it, Challenger-inspired tail lamp design.
Dislikes: Styling may appear too 'in your face' for some, even in the sportiest form, there are still better alternatives out there.
Overall: If you desire big American V8 muscle. This is the car for you.



Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Likes: An all electric vehicle, offers plenty of space for such a small car, designed for urban city traffic.
Dislikes: Range limits practicality, hard to justify high asking price for such a small car, futuristic styling isn't for everyone.
Overall: The future of electric cars is here.



Volkswagen Passat
Likes: More affordable than previous generation, tons of interior space, trunk space is very good.
Dislikes: Design is just bland, interior lacks Volkswagen's high quality feel, looks like an oversized Jetta.
Overall: The Americanized Passat just doesn't feel like a Volkswagen.



Saab 9-5 Sedan
Likes: Very handsome styling inside out, drastic change from the previous generation, still quirky - still Saab.
Dislikes: No more center console ignition switch, feels more like a luxury sedan.
Overall: Saab is moving in the right direction.



BMW 5 Series GT
Likes: Rear tailgate that can be opened like a sedan or hatchback, command seating in the rear, simple minimalistic approach to instrumental panel design.
Dislikes: Too expensive for what it is - by the way what is it supposed to be?
Overall: A BMW that creates a niche car that's creative, but just a tad over-priced.



Smart Fortwo ED
Likes: Fully electric motor, interior is oddly spacious for such a small car.
Dislikes: Still too small for some taste, can only be leased not purchased.
Overall: The Smart car should've been electric to begin with!


Porsche Panamera
Likes: Upscale interior, very distinct exterior design, plenty of power to satisfy hardcore Porsche Fans.

Dislikes: Some angles aren't very appealing, may induce sticker shock, options can sky rocket the price.

Overall: If you desire a roomy Porsche but dislike the Suv. This maybe the Porsche for you.




Volkswagen Tiguan
Likes: Very stylish exterior design, very spacious interior, rear seats can slide back to increase legroom.
Dislikes: Volkswagen premium pricing, interior is bland and lacks the high quality feel you'd expect.
Overall: The Jetta Wagon offers the same cargo space, but is far less expensive.

Devon M