Attention-grabbing style; fits in spaces others can’t; surprisingly accommodating interior; zippy around-town handling.

Dislikes

Ill-suited for highway travel; rough shifting gearbox; awkward floor-pivot brake pedal; pricey as compared to bigger subcompacts.

Introduction

2012 Smart Fortwo with its small nature offers excellent maneuverability in the city and on road, its outstanding fuel economy makes it a great commuter vehicle. With its unpleasant highway ride, lack of refinement and rough transmission, the Fortwo is one of the least desirable vehicles in the market. There are quite a lot of other models in the market we would suggest as a small city car. Open your eyes to something new: the all-new Smart Fortwo with an array of new colors such as the first ever matt finish, 2 new soft top colors for the Convertible and a 3rd color variant for tridion safety cell provide you with even greater scope to put together your very own Fortwo. The new body panel plus package with side skirts and aprons in body panel color lends the next-gen a colorful new look, which exudes even higher quality. Three new alloy wheel designs and the stunning LED daytime driving lamps round off the profile of new Smart Fortwo. Unsurprisingly, there is a lot to discover on the inside too. On the following pages, you can read about all the thrilling new features of Fortwo and certainly, check them out for yourself at your local smart centre.

The Smart Fortwo is basically a 2-seater rear-engined city vehicle developed, designed and launched by Smart GmbH at Paris Auto Show in the year 1998 as Smart City Coupe. At present, the Fortwo is in its 2nd generation and the name refers to its seating capacity. In the year 2008, the automaker introduced its all-electric concept, the Fortwo Ed. The Fortwo comes standard with an automated manual gearbox without a clutch pedal, 5-speed for the 2nd generation and 6-speed for the 1st. Input from optional steering column mounted paddle shifters and floor-mounted shifter controls sequential automated transmission and a servo operated clutch. The vehicle might be driven in automatic mode, although the shift points are not that smooth unlike the conventional automatic gearbox. In shift paddle mode, the operator controls shift points but can’t adjust or feather the clutch’s speed.

LED daytime driving lamps: see and be seen with these stylish daytime driving lamps and are offered as an option for all equipment lines in the 1st quarter of 2011. LED daytime driving lamps, new alloy wheels, new cabrio soft top colors and bodypanel plus package: it’s never been easier to define your own driving style. The beauty of matching and mixing in this way is which you really can’t go wrong. Especially in city traffic, it is crucial that you be able to see everything going on around you. The sizeable windows of Smart Fortwo make sure outstanding 360° visibility. It’s a more practical and safer way to go. In an otherwise complicated life, straightforwardness is to be cherished. The Fortwo is full of ideas designed and engineered for making life easier and simpler. The windshield wipers get speed sensitive interval wiping, while the rear wiper turns on automatically while the front windshield wiper is in operation and the vehicle is in reverse. The dual section tailgate enables hefty items to be loaded effortlessly onto a level surface, while the central locking function can be activated by remote from across the street.

The substantially redesigned 2012 Smart Fortwo has a noticeably more dynamic look, featuring stunning front aprons in a new design, a bigger radiator grille with incorporated emblem, muscular side skirts, tailored rear aprons and horizontally arranged LED daytime driving lamps. The way in which the Fortwo now shows the company’s emblem more prominently stands for its new self confidence. The Fortwo has long become an icon which is a defining feature of urban traffic throughout the world. The chrome colored emblem is now situated directly in black radiator grille, while the air inlets beneath the number plate have been fused in single unit, lending the Fortwo a bolder look. Optionally offered LED daytime driving lamps are now arranged horizontally. You will find 3 new alloy wheels: the Fortwo passion gets nine-spoke alloy wheel; 2 extra alloys featuring three-spoke and three twin spoke design and fitted with wide tires respectively round off the range. Besides the 3 soft top colors for the Convertible that were originally offered from smart programme (red, black and blue), the Smart Brabus custom made programme provides 6 other soft top colors.

By definition, a city vehicle is a compact vehicle with a compact powerplant, which is easy to park and maneuver in cramped city areas. Predominantly, the 2012 Smart Fortwo satisfies those minimum needs, but not much else. In spite of its tiny appearance, the Fortwo is quite roomy inside. You will find enough space for full-sized adults to be pretty comfortable and manages to gain commendable crash test scores as well. With 36 miles per gallon EPA estimated fuel economy rating in combined driving; the Smart is acceptably frugal with fuel.

Sadly, there are far more drawbacks which keep the 2012 Smart Fortwo from being competitive against other small vehicles. Its 1.0 liter powerplant is adequate for city crawls; the automated manual single clutch transmission is one of the worst gearboxes in the market today and causes disconcerting rolls at any speed, making boulevard driving methodically unlikable and complicating precise parking maneuvers.

We would much sooner pick from plenty of little more expensive vehicles to regain all of the refinement, capabilities, features and confidence, which the Smart Fortwo lacks. Topping our list would be the 2012 Fiat 500, 2012 Chevrolet Sonic, Hyundai Accent and Ford Fiesta.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2012 Smart Fortwo is a subcompact car that offers comfortable seating capacity for up to 2 passengers and is offered as a convertible (Cabriolet) or a hatchback coupe alongside 2 trims: Passion and Pure. Standard features and equipments on Pure include keyless entry, 15-inch steel wheels, 2 pre wired speakers and a leather wrapped steering wheel. Optional features are a radio with auxiliary audio and USB jack and air conditioning. The Passion Coupe gets Pure’s options, along with transmission shift paddles, 15-inch alloy wheels, heated power mirrors, a glass roof, a sport steering wheel and power windows, while the Passion Convertible further gains a glass rear window, side airbags (instead of side curtain airbags) and a power convertible top.

Optional equipments and features on Passion models are metallic paint, wider tires and wheels, foglights, LED daytime running lights, power steering, automatic lights and wipers, additional gauges, cruise control, heated seats, interior ambient lighting, an alarm and center console storage. The optional 4-speaker highline radio with navigation, Bluetooth and touchscreen display is also offered, as is a 6-speaker surround sound update.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2012 Smart Fortwo?

Motivation for the 2012 Smart Fortwo comes from a 3-cylinder 1.0 liter rear mounted engine, which is good for pulsating 70 horsepower with 68 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to automated manual five-speed transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. The transmission can be manually shifted if desired through paddle shifters on the Passion’s steering column or console mounted stick on all models. In performance testing, the Fortwo accelerated from 0 to 60 miles peer hour in the time range of 14.1 seconds with the top speed of 90mph. The EPA estimated fuel economy for Fortwo is 38 mpg highway, 34 mpg city and 36 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 Smart Fortwo is designed and engineered by Mercedes Benz and as such it provides plentiful passenger protection. It comes standard with side airbags for convertible and side curtain airbags for coupe, antilock brakes (rear drums and front discs), knee bolster airbags, stability control, traction control and hill hold assist. In brake testing, the Passion came to a stop in 124 feet from 60 miles per hour, an average distance for a subcompact. Crashworthiness-wise, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave Fortwo its best possible rating of Good for side impact and both frontal protection.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

Open your eyes to an even more pleasant-sounding cockpit. All lines have new color and fabric designs, helping to create a feel-good, voluptuous atmosphere. The new styling of fabric covered instrument panel also features many redesigned details, conveys new sense of lightness inside and a high quality, harmonious overall impression. For complementing the design, the new cabin concept offers plenty of user friendly technological features, new entertainment highlights and practical details, all of which make it even more fun to get behind the wheel of Fortwo.

The cabin inside provides a new dimension in entertainment, enabling you to enjoy your favorite music in a complete new sound quality. The new functional and technical features make sure maximum convenience and comfort on every journey. The extremely versatile multimedia system complete with AUX and USB interfaces is offered for the next-gen which provides no end of ways for you to enjoy your favorite sounds from an external iPod, USB stick or music player. With its integrated navigation and telephone functions, your stereo system navigation or multimedia will always guide you straight to your destination.

Driving Impressions

Don’t expect too much in the way of driving refinement with 2012 Smart Fortwo. In stop and go traffic, usual of city driving, changing gears should be easy. And it is with the five-speed clutchless automated manual transmission of Fortwo known as the smartshift that takes the strain out of changing gears. The automatic kick-down function enables you to shift down 1 or 2 gears at any time by pressing the pedal to the floor.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible’s technical highlights include an AMG front mid 6.3 liter V8 engine with dry sump lubrication generating 563 horsepower with 479 pound feet of torque, an aluminum spaceframe body, a sports suspension with aluminum double wishbones and a dual clutch 7-speed transaxle transmission – all of which will sportscar enthusiasts’ pulse while offering exceptional driving pleasure and driving dynamics. The Convertible’s small fabric soft top closes and opens in 11 seconds, while the Adaptive AMG Sport Suspension with electronically controlled damping is offered as an optional feature. Using AMG Drive Unit, its driver is hence able to select his own suspension setup: Comfort, Sport plus and Sport.

One of the unique features on 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible is AMG Performance Media, a motorsport-inspired groundbreaking multimedia system, which provides an unrivalled fusion of a number of telemetric screens like lap times on racetrack, linear and lateral acceleration and several engine data. It is a highly desirable dream car, cruiser and super sportscar all in one; in its unique way, the Convertible continues the series of exciting and iconic sportscar from the German automaker. Mr. Ola Kallenius, Chairman of Mercedes AMG GmbH stated that exceptional performance, a breathtaking design and systematic lightweight construction fused with sensuous open air driving pleasure, the new Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible flawlessly exemplifies AMG philosophy of German craftsmanship and engineering.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible adds a 2nd exciting dream car to the SLS AMG lineup. Like in the gullwing model, the athletic, pure design immediately catches the eye. Whether with the roof closed or open, it’s an impressive visual delight. The perfect proportions are particularly memorable: greenhouse positioned well to the back, a short rear end and a long hood. With the long wheelbase, automatically extending rear wing, short overhangs and wide track, it exudes an authentic charisma and effortless performance. The pronounced shoulder sections suggest sheer power in fusion with big wheels – 295/30 ZR 20 (rear) and 265/35 ZR 19 (front) and are reminiscent of tensed muscles. The weight optimized forged 10-spoke wheels painted in matte black with a high sheen rim flange and beautiful AMG Sepang brown metallic paint finish are offered as optional features.

Interior

The interior of 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible awakens associations with an aircraft cabin and continues the magnificent design language of the exterior. The matte finished solid metal; optional, genuine carbon fiber trim and finest leather correspond with authentic feel of the interior and create an exclusive ambience: contrasting stitching and precisely executed decorative heightens the handcrafted look, reflects the attention to detail that’s the hallmark of Mercedes design and improves the visual impression.

Standard interior features on the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible include heated AMG sports seats, black designo leather, COMAND with Navigation and DVD player, a detachable glass windstop, dual-zone automatic climate control, the KEYLESSGO starting function and anti-theft alarm system with interior monitoring and tow-away protection. The standard AIRSCARF system unique to MB acts like an imperceptible scarf warming the neck and head areas of passengers. It blows warm air from vents in head restraints and is incorporated into the backrests of AMG sports seats. Leather lined rollover bars with integrated mesh in Silver Shadow look is offered in combination with designo Exclusive leather for reducing turbulence inside. Ambient lighting is incorporated into electrically folding exterior mirrors. Dual tone or single tone designo leather in espresso brown is offered as a new cockpit color.

Besides the Bang & Olufsen BeoSound AMG surround sound audio system, another optional entertainment emphasize is AMG Performance Media. In an unprecedented way, the motorsport inspired system fuses a number of telemetric displays like lateral and linear acceleration, lap times on racetrack and engine data.

Performance

Motivation for the 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible comes from an AMG V8 6.3 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 563 horsepower with 479 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to dual clutch seven-speed transaxle transmission.

Safety

Standard safety features on 2012 Mercedes Benz SLS AMG Convertible include Front head airbags, 4-wheel ABS, Child seat anchors, Dual front side mounted airbags, Emergency braking assist, Remote antitheft alarm system, Cornering lights, Front and rear ventilated disc brakes, Engine immobilizer, Daytime running lights, Auto delay off headlamps, High pressure washers headlamps, Xenon high intensity discharge headlamp, Dusk sensing headlamps, Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation, 2 front headrests, Turn signal mirrors, Front seatbelt pretensioners, Traction control, Stability control, Emergency interior trunk release, Electronic brakeforce distribution, Post-collision safety system, Front integrated headrests, Passenger head restraint whiplash protection system, Pre collision safety system, Driver head restraint whiplash protection system, Emergency braking preparation, Self leveling headlights, Adaptive headlights and Tire pressure monitoring.

The entire vehicle has been designed and engineered for achieving the lowest possible center of gravity. This applies both to the arrangement of rigid bodyshell structure that has been kept as low as possible and to low connection points of the axles and engine. Examples include the occupant safety cell that have been engineered for using force paths which are as low as possible and the torsional and rigid flexural connections between the rear and front section.

Superb front seats; M3-matching performance and handling; surprisingly comfortable and easy to drive; M3 undercutting price.

Bad

A few cheap interior bits; limited production numbers; not the prettiest sport coupe.

Introduction

Inspired by the original 1988 M3, the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe offers racecar performance wrapped in a practical 1 Series sized vehicle, which is capable of daily use. It earns its M badge thanks to surprising livability and astonishing performance. The M Coupe is an intriguing alternative to more common sports cars and performance coupes. Unique appearance: you can detect the racing genes of the 1 Series M Coupe with your eyes alone, is fully dedicated to high performance on the ideal line, offers powerful exterior design and with an interior to bring you the experience of a motor sports atmosphere every day.

From the mighty air inlets on low front apron, through the strongly contoured side sections with their M wing mirrors, the typical M side air vents and powerfully flared wing extensions, through to the respect commanding dual tailpipes and spoiler lip on either side, the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe demonstrates dynamic presence from every angle. The high performance automobile’s charisma also determines the atmosphere of the cockpit. Exclusivity which you can feel and see everywhere; in the M entry sills and the M footrest, on first contact with M Sport seats and in the stylish black leather upholstery with its sporty contrasting stitching. On first catching sight of usual M styling of instrument panel or on first reaching earnestly for the M gear knob.

Shaped by the absolute desire for maximum performance, the athletic appearance of the 2011 BMW 1 Series Coupe. The M wing mirrors, the spoiler lip and distinctive front and rear aprons speak the unmistakable language of perfection in design and a maximum in aerodynamic optimization. With its mighty air inlets in usual M design, the front apron of BMW 1 Series Coupe guarantees the supply of cooling air for the M TwinPower Turbo powerplant. 2 additional vertical air inlets in the outer part of the front apron called air curtains enhance the airflow around the wheel housing by drastically reducing turbulence. Even the M wing mirrors above the characteristic side air vents with integrated blinker and M badging not only look good, they offer the best possible view to the rear while presenting minimum drag. Also born in the wind tunnel: the spoiler lip – an additional cut-off that reduces lift at high speeds.

You see and sense it straight away: strength comes from breadth. Whether on a straight at full acceleration or cornering with sporting ambitions– the wide track width of the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe fuses razor sharp steering characteristics and maximum agility with high precision stability. A 1541mm track width on both axles gives the M Coupe a plus of 40 mm at the rear and 60 mm at the front unlike the BMW 135i. The new high performance chassis, the optimum axle load distribution of almost 50:50 and a low centre of gravity result in a highly dynamic driving experience. Typically M: the respect commanding visual impression of the wide track is further underlined by the 19-inch light-alloy wheels in their M-specific Y-spoke design including mixed tires.

Design and dimensions of standard light alloy 19-inch wheels in M specific Y-spoke styling spell out the unique sporting character. The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe’s top athlete that appears in 3 exterior paint finishes: Black Sapphire, Alpine White and Valencia Orange. Exceptional performance numbers make the Coupe into a genuinely outstanding phenomenon. One unique notable feature: the impressive M light alloy wheels in M specific Y-spoke styling with 19 inch mixed tires. Rear: 10J x 19 with 265/35 ZR 19 tires and Front: 9J x 19 with 245/35 ZR 19 tires.

The letter M now comes to the class of 2011 BMW 1 Series Coupe for symbolizing the highly dynamic driving properties and exceptional power delivery of a high performance sportscar. In the BMW 1 Series M, the high performance car’s technology is fused with the lightness and agility of a compact model for creating a complete new dimension of sports style driving pleasure. With this two-door model, the automaker is now realizing for the 1st time in this vehicle segment its concept of racing oriented performance attributes in a vehicle designed and engineered for everyday commuting.

The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe’s front end design imposingly reflects its exceptional performance abilities, while the powerfully shaped front apron forms a homogeneous surface dominated in the lower section by 3 big format air intakes. So as to optimize the aerodynamic properties, so-called air curtains are used in serial production vehicle. The escaping air stream covers the side of front wheels like a curtain, thus reducing aerodynamically unfavorable turbulence around the wheel arches. The M Coupe comes equipped with standard bi-xenon headlamps.  Along with twin circular headlamps characteristic of the brand are truncated in the upper section by LED fed positioning lamp.

If you are still on the fence, though, here is the story. The automaker took its standard 135i coupe and gave it an M performance division treatment. Hard core BMW aficionados will likely bemoan that these updates break with M tradition, as the 2011 BMW 1 Series Coupe shares its turbocharged 3.0 liter powerplant with the plebeian BMW 335is and much of its underlying hardware with M3. The steering is surprisingly light in effort and beautifully direct, enabling you to grip the wheel with your fingers and feel every texture of the road. With its massive torque and short wheelbase, you can also steer with the seat of your pants. Powering the tail end out can be great hooligan fun, but the 1 M can also bite back hard should you start playing above your league. Granted, it isn’t the prettiest car on the road and its cockpit isn’t the most upscale or spacious. But unlike other dedicated sportscars including Porsche Cayman and Chevrolet Corvette, it does give you the option of transporting 4 passengers semi-comfortably. Probably with some irony, BMW’s own M3 coupe solves these issues – it’s roomier, nicer and prettier inside.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe offers comfortable seating capacity for 4 passengers and is offered in a single trim level. Standard features include high performance tires, 19-inch alloy wheels, heated mirrors and windshield washer jets, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, automatic wipers, cruise control, 10-way manual sport seats with power adjustable bolsters, automatic dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, a tilt and telescoping M sport steering wheel, a premium sound system with auxiliary audio jack, HD radio and a CD player and Alcantara faux suede interior trim.

The Premium package gets eight-way power front seats with driver memory functions, manual thigh adjuster and power adjustable lumbar support, auto dimming mirrors, Bluetooth, an iPod/USB audio interface (the latter two items are available separately) and interior ambience lighting. The Convenience package includes keyless ignition and entry, rear parking sensors, the iDrive electronics interface and a navigation system. Standalone options include advanced iPhone connectivity, heated front seats, a Harman Kardon 10-speaker premium surround sound stereo system and satellite radio.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe?

Motivation for the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe comes from an inline six-cylinder twin turbocharged 3.0 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 335 horsepower with 332 pound feet of torque. The temporary overboost function enable for 369 pound feet of torque at full throttle. The engine is mated to standard 6-speed manual transmission that sends power to the rear wheels. In performance testing, it accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of 4.6 seconds and offered the fuel economy of 26 mpg highway and 19 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

Standard safety features on 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, side curtain airbags and front side airbags. In brake testing, the 1 M came to a stop in an excellent 106 feet from 60 miles per hour.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

The M-specific interior designed and engineered exclusively for the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe is developed for facilitating sporty, focused driving. High quality, dark Alcantara with orange contrast stitching covers the door pulls, door panels, dash panel, gearshift and handbrake lever boots and instrument cluster binnacle. The driver’s attention is focused on M-specific instrument cluster with classic M red pointers, white backlighting and gray dials. The M entry sills and M driver footrest round off the distinctive interior and starts up, the red needles of the speedometer and rev counter alongside the white instrument lighting indicate what awaits you: pure M driving dynamics – systematically designed on journeys beyond the commonplace.

The M badging in the rev counter stands for sheer driving pleasure – right up to the limit. To make sure you can enjoy this sight to the full even in adverse lighting conditions, the classic twin circular instrument gauges are protected from interfering sunlight by an Alcantara covered hood. The orange contrasting stitching of the hood, which is continued on the Alcantara and leather surfaces throughout the interior, sets exclusive sporting accents in the BMW 1 Series Coupe. The M Sport seats. Custom-made for high-adrenalin cornering and expeditions to explore the limits of physics. They reliably counter the forces of lateral acceleration with distinctly contoured side supports and an adjustable backrest.

Increased performance through ergonomics: the precise fit of the M Sport seats in the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe offer the best possible body support even for hairpin bends taken in an ambitiously sporting style. The elegant Boston leather in black with contrasting orange stitching and the discreet M embossing on the front headrests add especially stylish shapes to functions designed for sport.

Driving Impressions

One moment, the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe is a tire-smoking monster with explosive power build-up, endless power and beefy torque. Its straight 6-cylinder engine with M TwinTurbo technology shows its strengths to the full in all ranges of revs. In the M TwinPower Turbo the engineers at BMW M GmbH have consistently implemented the philosophy of “Less is more”: specifically reducing weight on the dual-mass flywheel produces a more spontaneous throttle response and the engine achieves high revs more quickly. Driver and driving pleasures both benefit from an even sharper response.

Maximum levels of dynamics and agility and complete control even under the most extreme driving conditions; that was the aim in development. And it is precisely what the sophisticated construction of the M high-performance chassis with large track width produces in the BMW 1 Series Coupe. Technology that has demonstrated its prowess on the racetrack can now display its superiority in the 2011 BMW 1 Series M Coupe as well. For this chassis gives drivers what they want: lightness of handling, steering precision fit for the racetrack and direct feedback from the road for an even more intense driving experience. Intelligent lightweight construction guarantees high torsion resistance with reduced weight. The entire chassis setup of the BMW 1 Series M Coupe has been perfectly tuned – in tough practical trials on the Nurburgring. The result is outstanding driving dynamics which remain fully and safely under control even during sudden evasive maneuvers or ambitious braking and shifting down before cornering. Overall, it has all the performance, features and style, a driver could want in a compact package.

Sporty shape; precise handling; superb interior finish and fit; direct injected powerful V6 engine; smooth 7-speed automatic transmission.

Dislikes

Compromised back seat legroom and headroom unlike C350 Saloon; lacks manual transmission.

Mercedes Benz Gets Youthful With the All-New C350 Coupe

Mercedes Benz would instead forget the loathed hatchback Sport Coupe from a decade ago, an unsuccessful attempt to get on terms with the breed of small Japanese designed hatchbacks, which were making everyone look twice. Rather, the German automobile manufacturer of luxury vehicles would like to look twice at the all-new 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe, the first model based on C-Class Saloon. Beyond and above its sleek silhouette, there is a reason to look two times at its surprisingly precise suspension calibration and new direct injected 302 horsepower V6 engine. With sufficient telematics and a beautifully designed interior for tech savvy to get their geek on, it should be just a tool for attracting a hipper, younger audience into MB showrooms, without sacrificing the uniqueness to which even the hip and young aspire.

The 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe will be going nose to nose with various well-entrenched rivals, most conspicuously the benchmark of the segment, muscular BMW 335i with its inline six-cylinder turbocharged powerplant. Other models include the coupe versions of Infiniti G37 and Cadillac CTS, both powered by a naturally aspirated V6 300-horsepower engines.

Performance

The range topping 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe is propelled by a new direct-injected version of Double Overhead Camshaft Mercedes 3.5 liter V6 engine, featuring variable valve timing for both exhaust and intake valves, making it a smooth runner from start-up to its redline of 6750 rpm. The engine is good for pumping out 302 horsepower at 6500 rpm, a considerable rise over its predecessor’s 3.5 liter V6 268 hp at 6000 rpm. It generates 273 pound feet of torque unlike the 258 pound feet — albeit is churned out between 5250 and 3500 rpm vs. the more well-mannered 2400-5000 of previous V6.

In spite of the additional power, fuel economy has enhanced with the more efficient and redesigned 7-speed automatic gearbox and the powertrain’s direct injection. It is likely to offer EPA estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg in combined driving, a two-mpg enhancement over the 2011 Mercedes Benz C350 Saloon.

The German automaker claims that the quicker shifting and extra sauce should result in a 0 to 60 miles per hour sprint of 5.9 seconds. In the year 1886, Mr. Carl Benz was rewarded the patent for inventing the first vehicle, while just 60 miles away, Gottlieb Daimler designed his own version. Between them they also invented the truck and motorcycle, and won the 1st auto race. For more than a century, a passion for innovation has driven Mercedes Benz for incessantly reinventing the automobile — creating an ongoing legacy of firsts which keep redefining the standard for all vehicles. Amongst them, fuel injection and crumple zones in the 1950s, the four-wheel independent suspension 80 years ago and in the last two decades, side curtain airbags, adaptive brakes and Electronic Stability Program. Currently, the Three-Pointed Star remains far more than a shining symbol of Mercedes Benz innovation. It’s a guiding beacon for all automobiles.

Those seeking superior fuel economy should consider the base model 2012 Mercedes Benz C250 Coupe that’s powered by an all-new direct injected turbocharged, inline four-cylinder 1.8 liter engine, delivering 201 horsepower @ 5500 rpm with 229 pound feet of torque from 2200-4300. The engine is teamed up with the same 7-speed automatic gearbox and delivers 30 mpg of fuel economy in highway driving.

As far as performance goes, the C250 proves rather sluggish off the starting line, but a nice midrange surge does a decent job of moving its 419-pound curb weight down the road. Mercedes Benz claims a 0-60 time of 7.1 seconds for the turbo-4. Alternatively, the C250′s sprightly nature makes it more willing to change direction than the C350.

The silky, eager revving V6 228-horsepower engine turns torque into traction through 4matic four-wheel drive. Winter confidence meets dry road cornering fun, with the system’s 45:55 front/rear torque split and lightweight. With its responsive seven-speed automatic transmission, 60 miles per hour arrives in just 7.1 seconds. The agile four-wheel independent multilink suspension is improved with AGILITY CONTROL, an innovation which reacts to the motion of each wheel. With every change in the road surface, it instantly recalibrates the damping rates for balancing nimble handling with a composed ride.

Advanced rapid multispark ignition can fire each spark plug up to 4 times in one millisecond. High pressure Direct Injection can fine tune the fuel spray as quickly, to make the most of every molecule of gasoline. Beyond these new lightweight, lightning quick engines, the seven-speed automatic transmission has been redesigned for sportier feel and more efficient performance. And all through the vehicle, groundbreaking engineering has helped cut friction, aerodynamic drag and weight without diminishing the inspiring solidity, stability and strength, which make driving a C350 Coupe a reward in every mile, and a revolution in every millisecond.

Look back over the life story of the automobile and you will find Mercedes Benz continually leading the way in safety innovation: Inventing the first crumple zone over 60 years ago; earning a patent for the air bag and pioneering a portfolio of safety systems which eventually found their way into most every car, like the Electronic Stability Program (ESP), emergency sensing Brake Assist and Antilock Braking System (ABS). The C350 isn’t merely equipped with a list of safety features, however. It is designed as an orchestrated system which is engineered for making the most of the precious milliseconds it takes to avoid, or survive, a collision. Amongst its advances for is ATTENTION ASSIST, an exclusive system which helps detect driver drowsiness on longer trips.

Function

From their high resolution entertainment and driving displays to their hand fitted upholstery, the interior of 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe initiate a new age of innovation while honoring a timeless tradition of craftsmanship. In every element, you can see and feel a heightened sense of both refinement and excitement. Crisp, 3D instruments surround a vivid color multifunction display. The large LCD screen takes center stage above the console. Well placed controls reward your touch with ergonomic logic and elegant finishes. And pioneering luxuries from standard Bluetooth audio streaming to available voice controlled 80GB navigation system offer new ways to feel connected.

Tone-on-tone colors and the rich glow of Burl Walnut wood trim emphasize the elegance of 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe. The leather wrapped four-spoke steering column speaks not only of refinement, however. As with every C-Class, it is also your point of contact for its brilliantly articulated handling. From the four corners of motorsports world to the 170 turns of the revolutionary Nurburgring track, racing is a passion held close in the hearts of Mercedes Benz engineers. In each corner of its interior, the C350 Coupe embraces its passengers with equal enthusiasm. Four individual sport seats each with an integrated head restraint and deep side bolsters are directly inspired by a racing heritage tracing to the very first checkered flag. Every control is poised for quick action. Its thick, 3-spoke steering wheel provides raised thumbrests, perforated leather side grips, paddle shifters and a flat-bottom design. And from the deep set gauges with their color multifunction readout to the large central screen, every instrument helps keep the driver, the car and the fast-moving world around it in close contact.

Who Should Consider the 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe?

Since the 2012 Mercedes Benz C350 Coupe only weighs 53 pounds less unlike the sedan, performance is not enough of a reason for giving up the convenience of some legroom and headroom and 2 extra doors. The lack of manual transmission could drive some shoppers straight to Infiniti and BMW dealers.

Nevertheless, this new Mercedes C-Class Coupe is a solid rival in every other respect, with terrific handling, superb finish and fit and smooth and strong powerplants. Further, its sporty, sharp styling should go a long way toward attracting the younger target groups Mercedes is seeking.

The Kia K9 Sedan is a large vehicle with large cockpit. Externally, it bests the Jaguar XF and the BMW 5-series in terms of width, height and length. Originally, motivation will be coming from a V6 engine that will churn out 286 horsepower. In 2013, the direct injection V6 329-horsepower will be joining the range. Both powerplants feature a variable intake system and continuously variable valve timing for enhancing efficiency and performance. And will be teamed up with 8-speed automatic gearbox that can be operated with shift by wire function using joystick on center console.

The Kia K9 Sedan offers four different driving modes; these include normal, eco, sport and snow. Each provides different attributes for the engine, transmission, steering and suspension. It was put together with nearly 75% high strength steel that makes it ride like a flagship saloon. Standard features on K9 include lane departure warning, fully adaptive LED headlamps, an around view monitor with 4 cameras and blind spot detection. Updated models will be equipped with a head-up display, dual rear monitors and LCD instrument cluster for entertaining rear seat passengers. A VIP option will provide twin ventilated and heated rear seats with a sliding cushion, lower leg support and a reclining backrest.

Prices for Kia K9 Sedan aren’t announced, and the company has no plans to take the vehicle to UK, let alone bring it to US.

So what difference could it make to your year if you look at car leasing instead of buying your next model? The answer is that it could make a much bigger difference than you might think.

Take Your Car on Holiday

Have you ever fancied the ideas of driving on your holiday? Taking the car away on holiday is a fantastic way of experiencing a different type of trip, and it is a lot more comfortable than public transport if you are travelling with kids as well. Some of the big reasons why more of us don’t drive abroad is that we afraid the vehicle might let us down on the way and also because the monthly repayments leave us worrying about being able to afford the cost of fuel for such a long journey. Car leasing can help solve these problems, as it gives you a modern, well maintained car which usually costs less than the monthly repayment on a bank loan for an equivalent vehicle. Once you get your hands on a sleek new car you will probably be itching to get behind the wheel and start a really serious journey in it anyway. A quick look at the map will show you there are lots of fantastic options for a driving holiday starting the UK, such as France, Germany, Spain and further afield.

Have More Free Cash

Maybe you will decide that the money you save on your monthly car loan repayments would be better spent on something else other than going on holiday. It could be the extra cash you need to, for example, enjoy more interesting nights out, fix the house or simply have a more comfortable and stress free life. If you decide to go for car leasing you will find that the money you save each month can come in handy for a number of things.

Drive with More Confidence

Have you ever felt that you are a little bit ashamed of your car? Lots of us feel like this and it is a bit of a horrible feeling if we are being honest. Not being proud of your vehicle is likely to mean that you drive without the level of confidence you would like to have. Anyone who has ever parked round the corner from a business meeting or tried to change the conversation when their friends talk about cars knows what we are talking about here. Now you only need to consider for a second how much more confident you would feel if you were to drive a stunning vehicle which made you feel good about sitting in it and, more importantly, about driving it as well.

Author Bio

Sunny is Sales Manager at firstvehiclelease.co.uk – The UK’s leading   for Car lease and Contract Hire. At First Vehicle Leasing we provide well known names such as: Audi, Mercedes, Porsche, Seat, Alfa Romeo, BMW just to name a few.

Beautifully designed; seductive styling; V12 power; agile handling.

Disadvantages

Pricier; slower unlike rivals; tight rearseat.

Introduction

2012 Aston Martin Rapide is a high performance ultraluxury four-door sports sedan that offers space for up to four passengers. The idea of a sleek four-door sportscar is nearly as attractive as the 2012 Rapide is itself. Designing and engineering the Rapide is moving from Austria to England. As for the vehicle, it gains an easier to operate, new navigation system for 2012. It is considered to be one of the most stylish 4-door sportscar of the world, which exists in a segment of its own – a striking evolution of the company’s unmistakable design language, accommodating four passengers in luxury, yet offering the supreme refinement and sensational sportscar performance that are synonymous with all Aston Martin models. Characterized by their timeless elegance and beauty, Aston Martins are quite famous for being the most beautiful vehicles in the world. True to form, the all new Rapide is a breathtakingly beautiful 4-door sportscar. Designed and engineered for maintaining purity of vision and proportion, and demonstrating supreme balance and elegance, it looks striking from every angle.

The Aston Martin Rapide is basically a high-performance 4-door sports sedan designed, developed and launched in the year 2010 by British luxury brand Aston Martin. It was originally showcased a concept vehicle in the year 2006 at North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The Rapide name is a reference to Lagonda Rapide, a sedan designed by Lagonda, now part of the British automaker. It’s based on Aston Martin DB9 and the base price for Rapide is $199,950. The first vehicles were rolled out in 2010. The Rapide is built at a dedicated facility at the Magna Steyr plant in Graz, Austria. Production started in 2010 and the factory plans to build 2000 annually. The concept car version featured LED light bars on the rear end and a full-length glass roof, two firsts for Aston Martin. The glass roof wasn’t carried through to production.

The Aston Martin Rapide is a spiritual successor to Aston Martin Lagonda, the automaker’s previous 4-door saloon that was discontinued in the year 1989 before the introduction of Rapide. For convenience and luxury, its standard features include bi-xenon headlamps, LED taillamps and a tilt and telescoping steering wheel. Walnut and leather trim are standard with metallic accents; Bluetooth; power front seats with cooling, heating and memory; USB and iPod connectivity and satellite radio (US version only). The Rapide comes standard with a 16 speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system with two which rise from the dashboard on activation of system.

The stylish 2012 Aston Martin Rapide is luxurious yet functional and offers space for up to four passengers fused with an engaging driving experience synonymous with all Aston Martin vehicles. As the brand’s first production 4-door sportscar, it summarizes core values of Beauty, Soul and Power; 4 ‘swan wing’ doors offer access to cosseting sports seats both rear and front bequeathing passengers with ample accommodation. A 301 litre luggage compartment affords generous space for belongings for all 4 passengers whether they be sports bags or indeed, sets of skis, creating an Aston Martin that can be enjoyed on any occasion, anywhere, anytime.

The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide is a superlative sporting vehicle integrating elegance, innovation and heritage and is an expression of the pure emotion and passion which underpins the Aston Martin brand. Hand built to the highest standards, the legendary Rapide redefines the sporting grand tourer. An Aston Martin is engineered to sharpen the senses, extracting every grain of texture from the road surface, while offering unrivalled driver involvement and feedback. Yet when situations preclude spirited driving, an Aston Martin adopts a relaxing, restrained character, its massive reserves of power and torque combining with the uniquely cosseting interior to envelop both driver and passengers in the Aston Martin experience.

From every angle, the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide presents a harmonious composition with an intrinsic implication of ability. Aston Martin’s design team works with raw clay models as well as advanced computer modeling, and it is through the feel of real material and physical surfaces that the company’s unique sculptural design language is honed and developed. Aston Martin set out to create the world’s most beautiful four-door sports car. The result was the Rapide Concept, revealed to the world at the Detroit Auto Show in 2006. That vision has been translated faithfully into the production Rapide. Created by a team headed by Aston Martin Design Director Marek Reichman, the Rapide has been designed to look breathtakingly beautiful from every angle, displaying a purity of proportion and balance that is characteristic of the marque. It is a pure piece of Aston Martin design.

The Rapide bears a strong family resemblance to its two-door siblings, all of them sharing a taut muscularity and a finessed surface language. Despite its larger size, the Rapide’s length and height have been carefully increased to ensure the fundamental proportions are unaltered, and the silhouette remains instantly recognizable as an Aston Martin. As befits its sports touring capabilities, the Rapide can be seen as a lithe, long-distance runner or a powerful, thoroughbred race horse, its sleek silhouette implying endurance, stamina and speed.

The Aston Martin Rapide is a milestone model for Aston Martin, bringing the company’s values to a whole new audience. A superlative sporting coupe incorporating heritage, elegance and innovation, the Rapide is a versatile machine which expresses the pure emotion and passion underpinning the Aston Martin marque, while continuing its design and engineering DNA. A highly bespoke four-door sports car constructed to exacting standards, the Rapide redefines the sporting grand tourer. Proof that the most enjoyable way of getting between two points isn’t always a straight line, every journey in an Aston Martin is an occasion. The Aston Martin Rapide continues the company’s tradition of emotionally engaging design: it is a uniquely personal sports car that brings together cutting-edge modernity and traditional skills, as well as customizing that technology and craftsmanship to the customer’s precise requirements, the Rapide like every Aston Martin is also reliable, ergonomically practical and efficient.

Aston Martin is situated in Gaydon, Warwickshire in England, and this is where the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide will be conscientiously designed and engineered together with DB9 sport coupe with which it shares much of its structure and an engine. Beginning as a concept vehicle just a few years ago, it has quickly become a halo car for the revolutionary automaker. Using an extruded aluminum, cutting edge chassis bonded to aluminum and composite skin, the thoroughly contemporary Rapide is designed to exacting norms. Endowing a four-passenger sedan with sensations and talents of a sportscar has been a lofty mission many automobile manufacturers have attempted but few have accomplished.

As a grand touring machine, the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide is equally capable of comfortably putting down hundreds of miles in a sitting with all the amenities and comforts expected in this segment. A navigation system, an adjustable suspension and a high-end sound system are only the tip of the iceberg. Some concessions to interior space were made, nonetheless, in the name of its immediately recognizable exterior shape. Though rivals like the Mercedes Benz CLS63 AMG or Jaguar XJ Supersport sacrifice practicality in favor of performance and style, the Rapide’s rear passenger accommodations and limited outward visibility go even further. While rear leg and head room are simply sufficient, the large tunnel consisting a carbon fiber driveshaft leaves the hip and foot room of both back bucket seats very limited.

On the whole, we are pretty smitten with the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide’s exacting craftsmanship, unique nexus of old-world style, comfort, agility and modern manufacturing techniques.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide is a four-passenger four-door sedan with a hatchback style trunk. Standard features include driver adjustable adaptive dampers, 20-inch wheels, bi-xenon headlamps, a limited-slip differential, front and rear automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors, heated front and rear seats, power front seats with memory functions, an auto dimming rearview mirror, a full leather interior, a new Garmin based navigation system, a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker surround sound system with an iPod/USB audio interface, a CD player, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack and Bluetooth.

Besides or replacing the above, the Rapide Luxe gains standard ventilated front and rear seats, different wheels, glass switchgear, a secondary glass-trimmed key fob, a 6-piece custom-fit luggage set which matches the interior leather, special paint and leather colors and a rear seat entertainment system. Other than the switchgear, all of Luxe features are offered on the standard Rapide.

The rearview camera is also optional. As you would expect, there is a rather large selection of colors to choose from, plus you can request any paint code Aston Martin or any other manufacturer has ever used. There are also numerous interior leather hues and trim types available. Our favorite option: We know of no other automaker that provides a wristwatch transponder which replaces the remote key fob. Certainly, Aston Martin teamed with Swiss Jaeger-LeCoultre for this pricey James Bond inspired accessory.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2012 Aston Martin Rapide?

Motivation for the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide comes from a V12 6.0 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 470 horsepower with 443 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to six-speed automatic transmission with shift paddles and the power is effectively put to the road through limited slip differential. In performance testing, it accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of five seconds that’s is certainly quick but notably slower unlike luxury sport sedans such as Porsche Panamera Turbo, supercharged Jaguar XJ and Mercedes Benz CLS63. The EPA estimated fuel economy is 19 mpg highway, 13 mpg city and 15 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

Standard safety features on 2012 Aston Martin Rapide include brake assist, antilock disc brakes, front side airbags, 4 individual side curtain airbags and stability and traction control. Rear and front parking sensors are also included. In brake testing, the Rapide came to a stop in just 107 feet from 60 miles per hour. That’s truly sportscar territory.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

The interior of the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide follows the same ‘truth to materials’ maxim like the exterior: every material is used functionally and honestly. The instrument cluster and facia are classic Aston Martin with dark zirconium dials on a black surround which evoke the style, attention to detail and craft of a luxury chronometer. At the centre of dashboard is the company’s trademark glass starter module into which the Emotion Control Unit is inserted to start the vehicle. The Rapide features an all-new front seat design, particularly sculpted for providing the right combination of long-distance comfort and sporting support. The seats are trimmed in leather and are heated as standard, while seat cooling for rear and front is offered as an option. Each rear seat folds individually to form a significantly larger luggage compartment (886 litres from 317 litres). The 90.5 litre fuel tank, in the meantime has been designed for maximizing the available luggage area and facilitating a flat load space.

Careful attention to detail, from luggage compartment and interior mechanisms to the trim and material on seat backs provides the interior a holistic feel. The centre console runs continuously from the instrument pack through to the rear seats, cosseting the occupants and uniting the space between all four seats. View lines have also been carefully considered, giving rear passengers an optimal view of the road ahead, as well as optimizing acoustic quality of the space, enabling easy communication between front and rear.

The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide features a high level of standard equipment, including the Bang & Olufsen 1000W BeoSound surround sound stereo system. Designed and engineered from the close joint venture between Danish audio specialist B&O and Aston Martin, the bespoke audio system is customized to the Rapide and integrates 15 carefully placed speakers. This produces an acoustically perfect soundstage tuned for the dynamics and form of the Rapide’s interior. Provision for connecting iPods and other MP3 players is included as standard, enabling track access via its audio display. Once the system has been initialized, the dual acoustic lens speakers rise silently from the dashboard to provide optimum sound positioning.

The British automaker has established its groundbreaking plant at Gaydon in Warwickshire as a centre of technology and craftsmanship. The 2012 Aston Martin Rapide marks the beginning of a new era for the company, with the introduction of a brand-new manufacturing plant in Graz, Austria. Modeled closely on Gaydon, the new facility offers space, flexibility and the very latest production technology, while maintaining the same focus on quality and excellence.

Driving Impressions

As a high-performance, involving car with high levels of refinement, the 2012 Aston Martin Rapide epitomizes broad dynamic ability. The standard 20-inch wheels are made from forged aluminium, minimizing unsprung mass, and thereby improving ride comfort and handling. Tires are Bridgestone Potenza S001 (245/40 front and 295/35 rear), featuring a taller side wall for minimizing vibration transmission into the interior. The tires give the Rapide supreme levels of grip during cornering and late braking maneuvers. The steering rack ratio of 15:1 has been tailored for agility, giving quick response at high speed as well as excellent maneuverability at lower speeds.

The suspension of 2012 Aston Martin Rapide builds upon the company’s extensive dynamic experience, employing a unique aluminium rear subframe, together with reinforced lower control arms, new upper control arm bushes, tuned antiroll bar, bushes and engine mounts and knuckle and ball joints. The Bilstein continuously adaptive damping system originally introduced on DBS is offered as standard equipment. The dampers are specifically tuned to the driving characteristics of the Rapide and offer a ‘Normal’ mode, in which they adapt to deliver greater ride comfort, and a ‘Sport’ mode for better handling and control during dynamic driving. In each mode, 5 different sets of handling and ride characteristics are offered for maintaining precise control at all times. The system automatically adjusts to the appropriate setting according to information from sensors monitoring throttle, brake, steering rack and vehicle speed. Of all the vehicles we have driven recently, the 2012 Rapide has drawn the most rave comments from observers.

Sleek retractable hardtop of convertible; sublime high revving V8 engine; relaxed highway ride; otherworldly handling.

Disadvantages

Relatively cramped back seat; limited interior storage.

Introduction

2012 BMW M3 may be the best all-around car for the driving enthusiast; to the track, the office or day care, it handles it all with style and purpose. For 2012, the M3 Convertible and Coupe gain a USB/iPod interface, an antitheft alarm, Bluetooth and BMW Assist as standard features. The fully redesigned M3 Coupe looks fast, because it is; however sculpted good looks are scratching the surface. Dig deeper and find Formula One inspiration propelled by the first-ever production V8 which harnesses 414 horsepower, and redlines at a segment-leading 8400 rpm. Powerful, aesthetic design, exclusive style and supreme performance are the distinctive characteristics of BMW M3 and are now offered in highly attractive Edition Models focusing on the most exceptional highlights of these exceptional vehicles. The M3 Edition provides a choice of no less than 4 highly individual cars boasting perfectly harmonized modifications in interior features and body design in addition to an even lower chassis and special light alloy wheels.

The 2012 BMW M3 Edition Models entered the market worldwide in the year 2009 in Black, Alpine White, Monte Carlo Blue and Dakar Yellow shades. In the interest of supreme exceptionality their production period is limited to just 6 months. On the BMW M3, the interior design and exterior paintwork are individually matched to one another. Depending on the respective Edition model, its body comes either in Black Non-Metallic, Alpine White Non-Metallic, Monte Carlo Blue Metallic or Dakar Yellow Non-Metallic. The fusion with BMW Individual High-Gloss Satin Chrome emphasizes the truly advanced character of Edition Models.

The BMW M3 is basically a performance tuned version of BMW 3 Series, designed and engineered by in-house motorsport division of BMW, BMW M. All M3s have been derived from E36, E30, E90/E92/E93 and E46 3-series and marketed with saloon, convertible and coupe body styles. Updates over the standard 3 Series vehicles include enhanced suspension, braking and handling systems, responsive and more powerful engines, interior/exterior accents with tri-color M (Motorsport) emblem and aerodynamic body enhancements. Over the years the M5 and M3 have become the benchmark vehicle against which most sport sedans in its segment are compared in spite of fierce competition from Audi Quattro GmbH and Mercedes AMG.

The M3 models were entered by the company and private racing teams and its wins included British Touring Car Championship European Touring Car Championship, Deutsche Tourenwagen Meisterschaft, one-off World Touring Car Championship title in 1987 and Australian Touring Car Championship. The E30 M3 is also a multiple winner of 24 Hours Nurburgring, Spa 24 Hours and Guia Race. It also saw service as a rally car, Prodrive-prepared examples contesting various selected rounds and national championships of World Rally Championship between 1987 & 1989. Based on standard M3 these vehicles produced 295 horsepower and were equipped with six-speed gearboxes. It wasn’t competitive with the all wheel drive cars on loose surfaces, but a very effective car on asphalt.

The Head Protection System of 2012 BMW M3 is an inflatable tubular structure for protecting the heads of a vehicle’s rear and front seat passengers. Operating in conjunction with the side airbags, this system offers front seat occupants with exceptional protection in the case of severe side impact. It helps protect the head from hitting the side window and being hit by objects penetrating the side window. Is there anything the 2012 BMW M3 can’t do well? We have tried to find some glaring deficiency or fault with the company’s alpha car&but we are at a loss. The 2012 M3 is just one of the best performance oriented vehicles offered which doesn’t ask you to sacrifice for your daily needs. With a comfortable yet firm ride, 11 cubic feet of trunk space and seating for four, it calmly gets you across town, yet moves out quickly when called upon and breathes fire.

The 2012 BMW M3 carries over mostly unchanged, except that it now has a few more features as standard features. Like before, it is propelled by a naturally aspirated, exclusive 4.0 liter V8 engine, which has ample midrange power complemented by addictive high end rush as it winds out to an 8400 rpm redline. An available adaptive suspension dampers and supremely balanced chassis help the M3 corner steady and true without sacrificing ride comfort during the city slog or on the highway. Its cosseting seats, high tech features and well-constructed cabin make long hauls as enjoyable as short sprints.

The company has discontinued the M3 sedan for this year, but we suspect it’s only a temporary absence. With 2012’s introduction of new 3 Series, the facelifted M lineup isn’t far behind. The 2012 BMW M3 has few peers which are as well rounded, but for the money, there are various good alternatives. The Mercedes Benz C63 AMG is offered as a coupe and sedan, and its adept handling and brutish V8 power give the M3 a run for euros; Lexus IS F sedan is often overlooked, but with its recently retuned suspension which enhances ride quality, it is a desirable choice as well and Cadillac CTS-V is an American style, larger take on the M3 ethos with eye popping performance. Still, for a world class sportscar which deftly navigates the daily grind, the 2012 M3 is unbeatable.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2012 BMW M3 is offered in convertible and coupe body types. There is no M3 sedan for this year.

Standard features and equipments include a limited slip rear differential, 18-inch wheels, automatic wipers, automatic and adaptive xenon headlights, manual sport seats with lumbar support and power adjustable side bolsters, an auto dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth, leather cloth upholstery, a single-CD audio system with USB/iPod interface, an auxiliary audio jack and HD radio and the BMW Assist telematics service.

The convertible gains power front seats with sun reflective leather and driver seat memory and a power retractable hardtop, while the coupe adds split folding rear seat and a carbon fiber roof. The Cold Weather package includes retractable headlight washers and heated front seats; whereas the Premium package combines tech and comfort features, including keyless ignition and entry, power folding mirrors, different interior trim, upgraded leather, a navigation system with voice command and real time traffic and rear parking sensors. The same package for the coupe includes a power rear sunshade, leather upholstery and power front seats.

Many of the above features are offered à la carte along with a sunroof (requires replacing coupe’s carbon fiber roof with steel), 19-inch wheels, a premium sound system and heated front seats. At last, the coupe can be equipped with the Competition package that adds 19-inch wheels with high performance tires, adaptive suspension dampers, different programming for EDC and stability control and a lowered suspension.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2012 BMW M3?

Motivation for the 2012 BMW M3 comes from a 4.0 liter V8 engine, which is good for pulsating 414 horsepower with 295 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to either dual clutch seven-speed automated manual transmission or six-speed manual gearbox. The latter provides manual operation through paddle shifters and a full automatic mode. All M3 models come with a specialized locking rear differential.

In performance testing, the 2012 BMW M3 accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of 4.6 seconds. The convertible with automated manual dual clutch transmission makes the same run in 4.8 seconds. The EPA estimated fuel economy for M3 is 20 mpg highway, 14 mpg city and 16 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

The 2012 BMW M3 comes standard with plenty of safety features; these include full length side curtain airbags, front seat side airbags, traction control, stability control and antilock disc brakes. The convertible lacks side curtains but does feature front side airbags, which rise to head level and rollover hoops. In brake testing, the M3 came to a stop in 100 feet from 60 miles per hour that’s amongst the shortest distances we have recorded.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

The 2012 BMW M3 shares basic interior design and layout with corresponding models in 3 Series lineup of BMW, although the M vehicles add special trim and some extra-racy features. 4 interior colors are available, and the Premium Package includes your choice of carbon leather, wood trim or blue-gray brushed aluminum. There are subtle interior differences between the M3 convertible and coupe, but the essentials, including console, front seats and dashboard are the same across the both body styles. The soft plastics and vinyl enhance upon its predecessors in both feel and appearance, and put the finish on better footing with the best in segment.

With the route taken care of, you can concentrate on more important things such as enjoying every turn and twist along the way. The optional onboard navigation system controlled through iDrive uses a digital map, where available the Real Time Traffic Information (RTTI) and GPS satellites to guide you to your destination. Choose the shortest route, the fastest route or the one which avoids traffic. Where available, traffic information is gained by a separate radio tuner and then showed on the navigation system. And you can see everything clearly on the huge, high resolution display.

Comfort Access system provides an even greater degree of convenience: keyless access to your car. Simply carrying the remote key in a pocket enables you to unlock the doors by touching the door handle. You can also turn the engine on or off by pressing the Start/Stop button without first inserting the remote key.

Driving Impressions

The fun starts with 2012 BMW M3′s powerplant. The 4.0-liter high revving V8 is one of the most exhilarating powerplants in any car we have driven. The M3 is likely to be the last normally aspirated M car the company will produce. This Formula 1 inspired engine is a dream of driving enthusiast. All of its power catapults the M3 from 0 to 60 in just 4.8 exhilarating seconds. The engine sports BMW’s Double VANOS technology that ensures pinpoint accurate valve timing enables for optimal combustion at every rev range while lowering emissions. 8 separate throttle butterflies operate independently and precisely for amazingly quick throttle response. All this fuses for delivering breathtaking acceleration when requested and smooth power throughout the rev range.

Double Clutch Gearbox is a seven-speed transmission that uses 2 independently operating clutches. These control the even and odd gears so power can flow uninterrupted from longitudinally mounted engine to the transmission. The result is better acceleration and flawless up- and downshifts. Shifting can be done with steering column mounted shift paddles or with a center console mounted gear shifter. It is an optional feature which provides a comprehensive array of choices when it comes to customizing your M3 driving feel. Normally, Dynamic Stability Control helps to deliver optimal traction; but with M drive, it can also be set to track oriented MDM (M Dynamic Mode) that enables for more yaw angle and wheel slip. Optional EDC (Electronic Damping Control) can be set to normal, sport or comfort, depending upon your preferred handling settings and the surface of the road. Also engine response can be tweaked through a button in the center console that calls up normal, sport or sport plus programs.

Nasty weather, terrible road conditions, a deer crossing, when a driver loses control, there is typically more than one factor involved. Using built-in sensors for continually monitoring multiple variables like steering angle, speed, brake pressure, traction and yaw, the Dynamic Stability Control system can detect and, more importantly, help correct the loss of wheel traction immediately. All of which helps to keep you in control, no matter what the circumstances. Overall, the 2012 M3 stops, turns and accelerates with the agility and verve of a pure sportscar, whether a shopper chooses the convertible or coupe.

Lively turbocharged engine; comfortable front seats; emphasis on style; ample safety features.

Disadvantages

Awkward navigation system interface; not quite a luxury sedan despite premium pricing; handling feels short of that found in true sport saloons.

Introduction

2011 Volvo S40 continues to enhance the company’s reputation as a manufacturer of great sport sedans. It has comfort and style on its side, but lacks the refinement and athleticism of other European luxury sport sedans. For 2011, it gains all wheel drive T5 R-Design. The Volvo S40 looks and feels like a sports sedan, and the nearly identical Volvo V50 runs like a sport wagon. Improving their sporting credentials is an availability of a 5-speed manual transmission for base trims, and a 6-speed manual for turbocharged T5 with four-wheel drive system. The S40 sedan is a compact car, yet it offers four-passenger seating capacity in reasonable comfort, and small exterior dimensions make it easy to park. It is designed and engineered to be extremely safe, with passive and active safety features to help drivers avoid accidents, then protect them if there is a crash.

The Volvo S40 was basically a small family vehicle developed and designed by Volvo Cars. It launched the 1st generation V40 (Versatility/estate) and S40 Sedan models in the year 1995, while the 2nd generation was introduced in 2004, and the estate’s name changed to V50. The range was replaced by new Volvo V40 5-door hatchback this year. In the new millennium, the company upgraded the 40 Series implementing numerous technological enhancements such as direct (diesel) fuel injection, improved engine management, larger brake discs, extra safety features, revised rear suspension, new front suspension and steering, a widening of the track width and larger tires. A minor redesign gave more streamlining, larger rear light clusters and larger headlights along with minor instruments and fascia re-design.

The S40 was redesigned in the year 2008 with enhancements including increased storage space, new safety features such as Emergency Brake Lights that flash quickly during hard braking to alert traffic behind the car and improved audio systems. The new S40 also features optional Active Bi-Xenon headlamps that point the light beam in the direction of road as it curves. You will also find a camera that can be situated on side mirrors, alerting the driver of passing vehicles beside the car. This camera is optional on all trims. The company revealed the 2.0 liter diesel Geartronic in the 3rd week of February 2008 except in Ireland where it was unveiled in the last week of May.

Since the end of May 2010, a new range of powerplants was offered for the so-called 2011 model. The range includes four Diesel engines (new D2, D3 and D4 and existing DRIVe), the 2.0F Flexible fuel engine that can run either on E85 or normal petrol, on ethanol petrol mixture or three petrol engines (2.0, T5 and 1.6, the latter only available with automatic transmission and front-wheel drive). The upgraded T5 and 2.0 and the new D3, D4 and D2 are compliant with Euro 5 emission standard, while the DRIVe includes a start-stop system for reduced emissions and fuel consumption. New six-speed transmissions are used in D3, D4 (manual: M66D, automatic: Aisin AWF21) and D2 (manual: B6 D2).

With high quality, class leading safety and dynamic design, the 2011 Volvo S40 sedan is a true Volvo and one which asserts a distinctive identity in the rising premium compact segment. Providing a 4-door bodyshell in a segment presently dominated by five or three-door alternatives, it appeals to younger customers who demand a car combining the comfort, refinement and style afforded by premium brand and the practicality of a 4-door sedan. The Volvo S40 is a tribute to the company’s multi-cultural and talented design teams in Barcelona, California and Gothenburg, who have captured premium values of a modern Volvo sedan in a compact package. It is a dynamic, dramatic shape which asserts its own identity but remains every inch a genuine Volvo.

The 2011 Volvo S40’s exterior can best be described as evolutionary, which draws its inspiration from the award-winning, larger Volvo S80 and S60 sedans, and from classic Scandinavian design values of simplicity and elegance. The Volvo badge on centre of prominent diagonal across the grille is a feature of all Volvos, as are the strong ‘shoulders’ that improves the feeling of safety and power. The distinctive sculptured rear lamp clusters combine flawlessly with bodywork and are instantly recognizable as Volvo. The 2011 S40 is 44mm taller and 54mm wider, but 48mm shorter. In the mean time, the wheelbase is a mighty 78mm longer to the benefit of both passenger accommodation and driving dynamics.

There used to be a unique gap between non-premium and premium saloons. In recent years, that gap has been filling up with attractively priced four-doors with luxury aspirations. The 2011 Volvo S40 is one such sedan with more luxury unlike your run of the mill domestic model. This is particularly true on the inside, where the available dual-tone upholstery and sleek “floating waterfall” center stack continue to set this vehicle apart from its more conservative competitors. Beneath the hood, you will find a standard turbocharged 5-cylinder 227-horsepower engine, which offers livelier acceleration unlike the one found in usual 4-cylinder sedan. In its price range, models such as the stylish Buick Regal, the well equipped Volkswagen CC and sporty Acura TSX V6 are more appealing. Likewise, the Infiniti G Sedan and BMW 3 Series justify their higher costs through added prestige and performance. Overall, the 2011 S40 is a fine car on its own merits, but you will definitely want to shop around.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2011 Volvo S40 saloon is offered in two trims: T5 R-Design and T5.

Standard on base T5 include foglights, 17-inch alloy wheels, air conditioning, heated outside mirrors, a tilt and telescoping steering column, an eight-way power driver seat with memory, a 60/40 split folding rear seat, neoprene-like T-Tec upholstery, cruise control, an auto dimming rearview mirror, an eight-speaker stereo with HD radio, USB/auxiliary input jacks and a CD player, and Bluetooth. Opting for the optional Preferred package will get you leather upholstery, a power passenger seat and a sunroof.

Stepping up to T5 R-Design gets all of the above and spices things up with side skirts, front and rear spoilers, unique watch dial gauges, aluminum pedals and a sport steering wheel. Both trim levels are available with the Climate package that adds headlight washers, heated front seats, automatic climate control and automatic wipers. The Multimedia package gets a navigation system with real time traffic and a premium 10-speaker stereo. Standalone options include adaptive xenon headlights, 18-inch wheels, keyless ignition/entry, satellite radio, a blind-spot detection system with power folding mirrors and rear parking sensors.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2011 Volvo S40?

Motivation for the 2011 Volvo S40 comes from an inline five-cylinder 2.5 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 227 horsepower with 236 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to five-speed automatic transmission that sends power to the front wheels. In performance testing, it accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of 6.7 seconds and offered the fuel economy of 30 mpg highway, 21 mpg city and 24 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

Standard safety features on 2011 Volvo S40 include traction control and stability control and antilock disc brakes. Also included are full length head curtain airbags, front-seat side airbags and whiplash reducing front head restraints. The blind spot warning system (BLIS) is optional.

In government testing, the 2011 Volvo S40 got four-star rating for driver protection in a frontal crash and 5-star for both front passenger protection and rear side impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave S40 its best possible rating of “Good” in frontal offset and side impact testing.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

While the exterior of 2011 Volvo S40 could be described as evolutionary from S80 and S60, the cabin inside symbolizes nothing less than a revolution in vehicle design. Its focal point is ultra-thin central instrument console that appears to be free floating. This is a world first for automotive sector and was previewed on Volvo Versatility Concept Car (VCC) at 2003 Geneva Auto Show. It is basically a reflection of the company’s commitment to premium quality and Scandinavian design heritage.

The super slim format is an ultimate icon of the vehicle and a revolution in itself. The stimulation for the interior came from outside the car world. The design teams of Volvo were influenced by Scandinavian design tradition of uncluttered lines and clean surfaces, which drew inspiration, for instance from the stylish simplicity of classic compression-molded Series 7 chair, engineered by Arne Jacobsen, the world famous. These disparate influences – high-tech innovation and classic Scandinavian style were fused for creating a radically different interior concept. This offers passengers with an impression that they are safely ensconced in a cocoon. The secondary controls and air vents are positioned in individual islands, while the main instruments are combined in two round gauges, surrounded by contrasting metal bezels.

Driving Impressions

The turbocharged 5-cylinder engine of 2011 Volvo S40 offers enough power for entertaining most drivers, but there is a noticeable amount of turbo lag off the line. The 5-cylinder petrol engine is based on low-friction units found in on bigger Volvo sedans, but were extensively repackaged and revised for installation in Volvo S40. It fuses a dynamic, engaging driving experience with high level of active safety, thanks to its high level of torsional rigidity, sophisticated suspension system, the latest electronic stability systems and wide track. The Volvo S40 uses electro hydraulic power steering system, which has been designed and engineered for optimizing driver response and feedback. This helps the driver to place the vehicle precisely on the road and to assess the available grip. Overall, it is a premium, safe car in a small package, providing essential active safety systems like skid-control electronics, a high level of impact protection and advanced ABS.

Excellent crash scores; comfortable ride; easy purchase experience; snappy performance; well equipped; spacious, reclining back seat; smart iPod interface.

Disadvantages

Not that sporty as it looks; droning exhaust and engine note with automatic transmission; mediocre fuel economy; cheap interior materials.

Introduction

2012 Scion TC is an affordable yet well equipped coupe, which benefits from the company’s attention to reliability, quality and durability. It is sold towards the young first-time shopper seeking a sporty and hip urban vehicle. For 2012, it gains an upgraded base stereo system that features HD radio capability and Bluetooth audio streaming. The limited edition Release Series 7.0 also debuts, sporting a body kit, keyless ignition and entry and flashy yellow paint. Introduced in the year 2004, the TC quickly became one of the best selling vehicles of the company, simultaneously attracting the youngest shopper in the entire industry. 6 years later, the 2nd generation TC was launched with increased driving performance, a more premium feel and an aggressive new look. Improved performance is accomplished in the 2nd generation TC with a new inline four-cylinder 2.5-liter engine with dual VVT-i which churns out 180 horsepower, 19 more unlike its predecessor, and 11 additional pound feet of torque. Besides increases in power, the new powerplant delivers an increase in fuel economy all while lowering emissions. Performance is further enhanced and heard through a sport tuned exhaust system and a new intake manifold design, which delivers an aggressive and bold sound.

The Scion TC is basically a vehicle developed, designed and marketed by a division of Toyota, Scion. It was launched in the year 2004 in United States and in 2010 in Canada. The name TC doesn’t fit in with its stablemates the XA, XB, and XD, as the name XC designation has already been used by the Swedish automaker, Volvo for its lineup of sport utility vehicles. As per the company, TC stands for touring coupe. It is marketed as Toyota Zelas in China, Middle East and South and Central America. The Japanese automaker launched the production TC in 2004 at North American International Auto Show with sales starting in June 2004 as a 2005 model. It was designed and engineered to appeal to Millennial market. It shares its chassis with Avensis and uses a double wishbone rear and MacPherson strut front suspension. Its low price is a major feature, as well as the pure monospec pricing marketing style which Toyota has adopted.

Major standard equipments included cruise control, power windows, keyless entry, air conditioning, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, mirror mounted turn signal lights, 17-inch alloy wheels, a panoramic moonroof and a 160-watt Pioneer sound system with CD player. It received a minor redesign in 2007 for 2008 model year which included new head and taillamps and a redesigned grille. A bare bones version of TC called Spec Package was available without many of standard accessories. The Spec Package replaces the 17-inch alloy wheels with seven spoke wheel covers and 16-inch steel wheels. The glass roof is fixed in place, while the steering wheel is constructed of urethane rather than wrapped leather and lacks audio controls and many other minor exterior and interior enhancements.

Limited edition vehicles from a marketing standpoint were used for creating a buzz for the brand name, with their exterior colors tending to be loud or bright hues (including yellow, orange, blue, red and green). Because of the growing popularity of Scion product line and scarce production runs, these limited edition vehicles quickly sell out. The all-new design of 2012 Scion TC projects a more aggressive, bolder stance. Inspired by Calty-designed Scion Fuse concept, it is a high impact sports coupe with unique and simple elements. Calty designers took inspiration from the athletic look of racing helmet. Consequently, one of the boldest design features of TC it its sleek cabin shape with wrap around window graphics, which add to its sporty profile. Adding to the fresh design approach is a renegade, strong face. The projector headlamps and sleek front grille are complemented by protruding fender flares that intensify its lower, wider stance. The rear taillights’ shape flows cleanly into the overall shape of the trunk, concluding the purposeful and iconic nature of the design. It can be wrapped in an urban palette of seven colors: Silver Streak Mica, Super White, Magnetic Gray Metallic, Black, Nautical Blue Metallic, the all-new Cement and Sizzling Crimson Mica.

During mid-2000s, the TC was one of the reasonably priced coupes on the road. Yet like most things which are attractive to young buyers, its popularity waned over time. The 2nd generation TC launched in 2011 is intended for recapturing some of the model’s former fame. Certainly, there is a lot to like here with the latest TC, including hatchback versatility, snappy performance and an attractive value proposition. It also takes into account the younger generation’s affinity for electronics with a standard stereo system engineered specifically for an iPod.

Albeit the 2012 Scion TC has numerous overtly sporty touches (including well bolstered seats and a beefy flat-bottomed steering wheel), it is more show than go. With its aggressively styled body kit, the new Release Series 7.0 is no hard-edged sports machine. The combination of pleasant driving dynamics, supple ride and broad power delivery will likely appeal to a broader spectrum of drivers than would something with stiff underpinnings and a peaky engine. There are quite a lot of other models in the market such as Kia Forte Koup and Honda Civic coupe. The all-new Hyundai Veloster is also worth serious consideration given its superior feature content and innovative three-door design, but the enjoyable yet practical 2012 TC has plenty to recommend it, in spite of its existence out of the spotlight.

Variants, Body Types and Features

The 2012 Scion TC is a compact hatchback coupe that offers comfortable seating capacity for five passengers and is offered base and Release Series 7.0 trim levels.

Standard features and equipments on base TC include keyless entry, 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, air-conditioning, a panoramic sunroof, full power accessories, a tilt and telescoping steering wheel, a height adjustable driver seat, driver track and seatback angle memory for rear seat access, folding and reclining 60/40-split rear seats and a Pioneer eight-speaker surround sound system with HD radio, CD player, an iPod/USB interface, RCA output jacks and an auxiliary audio jack. Bluetooth audio and phone connectivity is also standard for 2012.

The Release Series 7.0, of which only 2200 will be made, comes exclusively in “High Voltage” yellow and gets black 18 inch wheels, a lower body kit, yellow accented black upholstery and keyless ignition and entry. Besides an automatic transmission, there are no factory options. Nevertheless, there are numerous dealer installed items, including satellite radio, a navigation system, an auto dimming rearview mirror, upgraded audio, remote ignition, seven-color interior mood lighting, foglights, a rear spoiler and a cargo cover.

What’s Beneath the Hood of 2012 Scion TC?

Motivation for the 2012 Scion TC comes from an inline four-cylinder 2.5 liter engine, which is good for pulsating 180 horsepower with 173 pound feet of torque. The engine is mated to either standard six-speed manual or optional six-speed automatic transmission. In performance testing, it accelerated from 0 to 60 miles per hour in the time range of 7.3 seconds and offered the fuel economy of 31 mpg highway, 23 mpg city and 26 mpg in combined driving.

Safety & Reliability

Standard safety features on 2012 Scion TC include antilock brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags, front knee airbags, active front headrests and side curtain airbags. In brake testing, the TC came to a stop in a respectable 123 feet from 60 miles per hour.

In government testing, the TC got 5 out of 5 stars for overall crash protection with 5 stars for side impact protection and 4 stars for frontal impact protection. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave TC it highest score of “Good” in the side impact, roof strength and frontal offset tests.

Special Features and Cockpit Design

The elegant design of 2012 Scion TC carries over to the interior with a feel and look, which is sporty, functional and sophisticated. The front cockpit design offers a driver centered cockpit with freedom and spaciousness for front passenger. The tilt and telescopic steering column heel features a flat bottom which offers additional thigh room. Dual illuminated combination meters for the tachometer and speedometer have a 3D appearance with large needle indicators and meters for excellent visibility. The trip meters also include gauges for average MPG, an ECO drive indicator on automatic gearbox models which helps driver maximize its fuel efficiency and outside temperature. It doesn’t sacrifice passenger and driver comfort. As part of the facelift, the engineers made significant interior updates in the area of passenger and driver convenience and comfort.

The 2012 Scion TC comes with a powerful standard audio system with a total of 300W feeding the 8-speaker sound package. With an emphasis on amazing sound quality, its audio system shares some speaker components with Lexus LX 570, and gets woofer and midrange speakers that are superior. It comes standard with a Pioneer AM/FM/CD head unit with USB iPod connectivity.

Driving Impressions

The 2012 Scion TC can best be described as an urban agile, which means the vehicle, which is involving and responsive enough to keep you entertained while comfortably commuting around town, but not that elegant that you would relish driving it on a back road somewhere. It provides drivers a choice of 2 all-new six-speed transmissions, each providing excellent fuel economy and driving excitement. The manual transmission gains confident shifts which are precise and direct, while the automatic boasts sequential shifting, offering an additional fun to drive element. Vehicle Stability Control helps prevent loss of traction and wheelslip by applying brake force to the wheels that need it and reducing engine power. Antilock Braking System helps prevent brakes from locking up by pulsing brake pressure to each wheel to help you stay in control in emergency braking conditions. From amps to moving boxes, its ABS technology has EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) to help keep the vehicle balanced when braking-particularly if cargo is in the back. Some people just want an elegant vehicle, which is economical to drive and cheap to buy. And, at its $18,275 well equipped starting price that is exactly what Scion has crafted with the 2012 TC.