New cars (we sit in & critique)

Toyota Avalon

Likes: The sportiest looking Avalon we've seen in a long time. Interior has improved dramatically as well. We can't wait to see what it's like to drive.

Dislikes: The front grille could have it's own postcode.

Overall: It's a massive step forward for the full-size sedans.



Honda Civic SI

Likes: It's still a special machine to drive compared to the mainstream Civics.

Dislikes: SI isn't available on the hatchback. It doesn't feel particularly faster than the non-SI turbo form.

Overall: A few extra horsepower and firmer suspension goes a long way.



BMW 4-series

Likes: It feels well-balanced and the turbo four-cylinder offers strong performance. It's much sleeker looking than the a 3-series.

Dislikes: The interior is lifted from a 3-series. BMW is stingy with the standard kit.

Overall: The 2-series is lighter and more engaging to drive.



Hyundai Sonata

Likes: It's more efficient, more stylish and more upscale than the previous generation.

Dislikes: It's not as engaging to drive as the looks suggest.

Overall: Value-minded buyers will rejoice with this one.



Smart Fortwo ED

Likes: It's one of the more affordable electric cars on the market. It's actually much easier to live with than the gasoline powered versions.

Dislikes: Limited appeal.

Overall: It's the smartest Smart ever.

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. 

Reviews O-o

Volkswagen Jetta

Likes: Fresh new redesign, almost Audi-like rear tail lamps, class leading trunk and rear passenger space.

Dislikes: Styling bland, interior quality very disappointing for a Volkswagen, base engine is embarrasing for a mid-sized sedan.

Overall: The Americanized Jetta loses all that it was known for to please an audience it really didn't need to.

Chevy Cruze

Likes: A drastic change from the lackluster Cobalt, largely improved interior, plenty of space for five.

Dislikes: There are mid-sized sedans with more horespower for less money, two engines with the same output makes no sense, unsupportive front seats.

Overall: GM is in the right direction. Only if this change could've occured two years prior.

2011 Saab 9-5 sedan

Likes: Fantastic new design, interior still reflects aircraft heritage, interesting new features, turbo six-cylinder welcome addition.

Dislikes: Priced rather high, much of its sport sedan dynamics are no longer there, rather disappointing effort if you're a diehard Saab Fan.

Overall: Its still offers that 'something' no other automaker can bring to a driver's face. A smile that other drivers won't understand.

Hyundai Sonata

Likes: Large step forward for the brand, offers a turbo four-cylinder in a sea of six-cylinders, much improved everything including looks.

Dislikes: Styling rather polarizing for a mid-sized family sedan, turbo form doesn't offer a manual transmission, styling rather similar to Mercedes CLS.

Dislikes: Hyundai has become a very competitive player in the steadily growing market. With quality improving drastically, driving pleasure shouldn't disappear.

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

Likes: Compact crossover that's stylish and overloaded with features.

Dislikes: Lacks in horsepower, really needs more than stylish looks to stand out in this segment.

Overall: Offer the turbo engine from the Lancer Ralliart, and price it competitively with the Volkswagen Tiguan. You'll have a surefooted winner.

Devon M