Short-drive (we test drive new cars) and of course critique them

Infiniti QX50

Likes: Styling is much improved over previous generation. The new turbo variable compression turbo offers good flexibility and running costs (in theory). It's also easier to live with and much more refined than before.

Dislikes: The CVT gearbox ruins most of the fun. Higher trim levels can get quite expensive. We're skeptical on reliability of the new turbo engine.

Overall: It's a worthy alternate to the typical German Three.



Volvo S60 Cross-country

Likes: It blends well into Volvo oddity. It's a breathe of fresh air compared to the BMW X4 and Mercedes GLC Coupe. It's one of the rarer new Volvos out there.

Dislikes: Volvo most likely won't be bringing this back.

Overall: A modern day AMC Eagle that's full of Swedish Charm and style.



Jaguar E-pace

Likes: An affordable and more adorable version of the F-pace. It feels livelier to drive than an Evoque.

Dislikes: Jag's infotainment is a disaster. It's quite expensive for the overall package.

Overall: It's cute but not $60k cute.



GMC Yukon XL

Likes: The eight-cylinder engine soundtrack under heavy acceleration. It's big and imposing and we absolutely love it.

Dislikes: Can someone explain to us the difference between this, an Escalade and Suburban?

Overall: The Yukon Denali is the creme de la creme of the Yukon Range.



Hyundai Veloster

Likes: Compared to the previous generation, we really do like this one a lot more. The entry-level 1.6 is gone and the new turbo engine gives it real hot hatch cred.

Dislikes: It's not as sharp to drive as it looks.

Overall: It's a very interesting way of blending oddball style with hot hatch performance.



Chevy Malibu

Likes: 1.5-turbo engine is the sweet spot in the range. It blends style and affordability well. It's roomy for five and you can pick up one for dirt cheap.

Dislikes: You know at least four people with one and there's tons of these on rental lots.

Overall: The most desirable versions are expensive and ruins the value for money arguments.

It's not a Honda Accord/ Toyota Camry (we critique family-sedans)

Subaru Legacy 

Likes: The only mid-sized sedan with standard all-wheel drive and bullet proof reliability. Subaru has finally improved interior quality and the engines both offer respectable running costs. 

Dislikes: It's rather bland to look at, and there's no more turbo engine option. Headlights are overly sensitive in auto setting. 

Overall: Despite what most people think, the Subaru Legacy is a great option for those who really do need all-wheel-drive and don't want to option for a crossover. It may not be as functional as a wagon but it surely does fit the bill well. 

Volkswagen Passat 

Likes: 1.8 turbo engine offers decent flexibility and low running costs, while the 3.6 can satisfy the power hungry crowd. The rear seat is roomy while the boot space is enormous. 

Dislikes: The driving experience matches the looks, both are bland at best. The 4-motion all-wheel-drive is no longer optional and we would love to see the wagon return. 

Overall: The Euro Passat is so much classier inside and out. We beg you Volkswagen can the next Passat we get look as classy!

Nissan Altima 

Likes: The standard 2.5 may not seem like much on paper but it offers a really nice blend in performance and running costs. The interior is roomy for five with a boot that's generous in space. 

Dislikes: You'll have to climb all the way up to the 2.5 SR to get standard alloy wheels. The 3.5 six-cylinder feels way too powerful for its chassis. Steering feedback is almost lifeless. 

Overall: The Altima isn't all that bad but it's not great either. 

Ford Fusion

Likes: The ecoboost four-cylinder engines all offer the flexibility that you'd want with low running costs that you need. Despite the mild facelift, the Fusion still looks fresh compared to many keen rivals. 

Dislikes: Don't buy the Fusion hybrid it's a false economy. It's not as refined as a Honda Accord or Volkswagen Passat. 

Overall: The Fusion Sport is quite literally better than the Nissan Maxima, while everyone else will be happy with the Titanium trim if you're willing to dish out the cash for it. 

Hyundai Sonata 

Likes: It's still stylish despite the mild restyles that it has received. The rear seat is very spacious and the boot offers decent space as well. The mainstream versions aren't bad but acceleration is pokey, the turbo engine is smoother but reliability is iffy. 

Dislikes: Residuals are worrying. We've heard many horror stories about long-term reliability. 

Overall: We love how Hyundai has progressed as an automaker, but after the several horror stories of engine failure. We certainly question if the Sonata is a smart buy. 

Chevy Malibu 

Likes: Interior built quality has improved dramatically and the engines that are offered are all decent in flexibility and low in running costs. 

Dislikes: It can get expensive quickly and the expensive trims are the ones many will want. Typical GM having an interior that looks similar to at least three other cars. 

Overall: GM has improved their products, but nothing about them feel special. 

Mazda 6 

Likes: The most fun to drive family-sedan you can buy. It feels the quickest and has the lowest running costs. The best interior of the price segment. 

Dislikes: No turbo engine option. 

Overall: This is quite literally the benchmark of family-sedans. It's quick on its feet, offers a driving experience that's so rewarding that others can't quite match. We just wish that it had a more powerful engine option to really go toe to toe with Ford and Volkswagen.