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.

Short-reviews - we sat in them at the Chicago Auto Show (part one)

GMC Terrain

Likes: Styling inside out has been drastically improved. You can now option for a 1.6 diesel engine.

Dislikes: We loathe the push button gear selector and how its awkwardly placed in the dashboard.

Overall: It looks better than an Equinox but it still feels like one.



Volkswagen Jetta

Likes: We love the new digital display. The rear seat is even roomier than the current form. The interior build quality has been dramatically improved.

Dislikes: Typical Volkswagen play it safe styling.

Overall: Looks like another winner from Volkswagen.



Jaguar XF Sportbrake (sedan shown above)

Likes: It's the Jaguar Wagon we've been hoping to see again. The boot space and rear seat space is much better than the sedan.

Dislikes: Americans (most not all) hates wagons. We can't afford it and we're sad about that.

Overall: There will be a cheaper version coming soon with a 2-liter turbo engine.



Ford Eco Sport

Likes: Mini-Escape looks (which isn't a bad thing), the interior is spacious for five.

Dislikes: The boot door swings out instead of upward like most crossovers. We're not entirely sure about the 1-liter eco-boost three-cylinder engine overall flexibility.

Overall: It's another crossover (yawn) and it's starting to get a little boring at this point.



Smart Fortwo ED

Likes: An affordable electric car with decent range. The Smart Fortwo should've been electric only from the beginning.

Dislikes: Limited appeal.

Overall: It maybe the smartest Smart you can buy.