2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI – High Efficiency Without the Hybrid Premium

With an entry-level MSRP and fuel efficiency to rival most hybrids, the diesel-powered Passat surprises with its true-to-form German handling, making it pure driving joy.

With Volkswagen TDI, you'll get the performance, style, safety, and quality of a turbocharged German vehicle. It's just that you'll get those qualities in a high-mileage vehicle.

Manufacturer: VolkswagenYear, Model:2012 Passat TDIClass, Type: Mid-sized sedanPropulsion system: Turbocharged Direct Injection dieselVehicle range: 820 miles +Fuel(s): DieselBase Price: $25,995MSRP as tested: $32,195Availability:

Now, nationally

For a mid-sized sedan at this price point, the car over delivers. The engine is a 2.0-liter in-line four cylinder diesel with four valves per cylinder, turbocharged, with direct injection (TDI). It meets both European and North American emissions standards using Volkswagen's AdBlue after-treatment. The diesel makes the signature European “putty-purr” sound so often associated with the diesels so popular there. The Passat is front wheel drive with an amazingly smooth and well-tuned 6-speed transmission (available both automatic and manual).
The seating and interior room are very comfortable for a car this size. Most smaller sedans such as the Passat suffer from cramping as designers attempt to utilize every square inch. The Passat TDI has ample interior space and comfortable seating, allowing even someone over six feet such as myself to easily sit in the back row to ride. Three average people can comfortably sit in the back.
The trunk is huge and the seats fold flat to allow pass-through for even more storage options. Without the seats down, a standard-sized mountain bike with the front wheel removed fits easily in the boot. For the curious, the AdBlue refill port is also located in the trunk.
Entering the freeway or getting up to speed on the highway can be either smooth and efficient or can be a seat-pressing, G-forced launch, depending on driver discretion. The amount of power produced by this little diesel is shocking to those who might not expect it. Despite getting 43 miles per gallon (EPA) on the highway, the Passat TDI puts out the kind of get-up-and-go you'd expect from an 8-cylinder beast. Top speed is limited to 118 for the U.S. versions, if you're wondering.
Braking is smooth and effortless and handling us superb for a vehicle in this segment. True to its German roots, the Passat has stiff, responsive turning, but handles road shocks and bumps extremely well, marking the suspension as somewhere between sport tuned and mushy. It's an excellent balance that drivers will appreciate.
Drivers will also appreciate the consolidated and nicely fitted instrument cluster. Analog dials give precise information on RPM, speed, etc. and are supplemented by the central LCD screen which shows cruise settings, gear position, and other details depending on vehicle operation. It's well laid out and gives what the driver needs in a glance.

Very high-mileage, low-maintenance car that easily competes with hybrids and even some plug-ins for its versatility, cost-effectiveness, and comfort. At many thousands cheaper than a Chevrolet Volt and much larger than it and most other hybrids on the market that achieve 43+mpg on the highway, the Passat TDI is definitely a contender.

Extreme German driveability is inherent in this car. So much so that this, along with its price point and efficiency, won it the Motor Trend Car of the Year award for 2012.

Maintenance costs are higher than gasoline simply because of the AdBlue® and after-treatment that must be added every 10,000 or so miles. This adds the equivalent of another oil change to the car's costs.

Premium options are a must for those serious about a great driving experience in the Passat. While the base model is great, adding the Fender Premium Audio® and higher-end interior treatments pushes the price tag up.

This is a great car at a great price point with awesome efficiency. For those who don't live in urban environments and need a more versatile, family-friendly sedan, this is definitely a near-perfect choice.

Test Period Length and Limitations
We drove the Passat TDI for about a week, putting just under 500 miles on the car. It was driven in everyday situations on highways, country roads, with and without children and carseats, etc.

This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.

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2012 Lexus CT 200h Premium – Hybrid Luxury In a Sport Wagon

This Lexus wagon is already an entry-level luxury winner, but adding Lexus Hybrid Drive to achieve 42mpg combined? A whole new ideal of plush genius is born. A beautiful car, a posh ride, and excellent efficiency, all in one package.

Eats asphalt. Sips fuel. With a combined 42 MPG fuel economy rating, the highest of any luxury vehicle, the CT is as efficient as it is exhilarating.

Manufacturer: ToyotaYear, Model: 2012 9900G CT 200h PremiumClass, Type: Luxury wagonPropulsion system: Gasoline-electricFuel(s): GasolineBase Price: $29,120MSRP as tested: $39,940Availability: Now, nationally.

The most striking thing about the new Lexus CT 200h Premium is it's beautiful styling. Most of the time, "station wagon" and "style" don't tend to be uttered in the same breath. This new Lexus is the exception to that. The car is downright beautiful with only one minor flaw: it has a somewhat boxy rear end. Lexus' designers did something that is rarely achieved by making a "sport wagon" actually look sporty – hiding the fact that it's drag coefficient is a remarkable 0.29.

Inside, the CT 200h is very well appointed. It feels like a luxury car from the moment you sit down. In the premium upfit we tested, it was extremely comfortable. Leg, head, and shoulder room are great, even for someone of large stature. The leather trim, high performance audio system, and 10-way adjustable driver's seat are top-line inclusions here.

The 1.8-liter in-line 4-cylinder DOHC engine with variable valve timing (VVT-intelligent) is coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is electronically controlled. This runs with the Lexus Hybrid Drive system to put out a total of 134 horsepower while holding a Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) rating. At 43mpg city and 40mpg highway, the EPA gives the CT 200h Premium a 42mpg combined rating – the highest in this segment.

The ride is very smooth and comfortable at city speeds, but on the highway, a definite "over-cushiness" can be felt as the car smooths out and removes most of your feel for the road. On the track, the electric-assist power steering and rack are excellent strengths whose notoriety is destroyed by the car's extremely thick-feeling suspension.

In Eco Mode, the Lexus CT 200h does well in the city, accelerating well enough for most drivers not to notice the dampening impact of the fuel savings on performance, but when getting up to speed on the highway, Eco is definitely felt, holding you back.

Great styling with crossover-like appeal in a modern station wagon. A lot of versatility goes into the station wagon design and Lexus hit it perfectly here.

Excellent economy beyond the average in this segment. The CT 200h has higher efficiency than any other vehicle in the luxury market and is better than most in this size/class of non-luxury as well.

A lot of body roll when cornering. The ultra-plush ride feels more like grandma's car than a sport wagon.

Sluggish acceleration even when not in Eco Mode. A 0-60mph time of 9.8 seconds is alright for this market segment, but the CT somehow makes it feel slower than that.

One of the best cars in this segment that we've tried, hybrid or no. While it doesn't have the handling or speed of a higher-end German vehicle, it does have great style and much higher efficiency than any other entry into the luxury market. With the versatility of a wagon, it's a sure winner for families looking to ride in comfort and style.

Test Period Length and Limitations
This car was driven at a multiple-vehicle ride and drive event that included both on-road time (rural highway, freeway, some city driving) and track time (pictured). Total time in vehicle was about an hour.

This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.

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2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium PZEV - The Go-Anywhere Fuel Sipper

The Suburu Impreza Premium partial zero emissions vehicle (PZEV) is an all-wheel-drive sedan with impressive interior room for a compact. It sports good fuel economy and has all of the goat-like off-track power Subaru is known for.

Its clever engineering combines trademark Subaru control and reliability with added safety, technology and interior space, all while going easier on your wallet, thanks to an impressive 36 miles per gallon.

Also available as a hatchback, the Impreza is a deceptive vehicle on first glance. It appears to be very compact with little trunk space and a cramped interior. Climbing inside and opening the deck lid, however, reveals a car that is much more roomy than anticipated. The trunk is very large, capable of holding a Saturday picnic with all the accessories for a family of four including a double-stroller for the toddlers. The interior is pleasantly laid out and easy accommodates two infant car seats, two adults, and has thoughtful cubbies and storage compartments for water bottles, sunglasses, and so on.

The Impreza 2.0i Premium PZEV is a partial zero emissions vehicle meeting California's standards for that designation. This means it meets federal guidelines for Super-Ultra Low Emissions and has a 15 year warranty on its emissions controls. California, Oregon, Colorado and a few other states recognize PZEVs and give tax breaks or other incentives for purchasing one.

The Impreza, as tested, is capable of 36 miles to the gallon on the highway and 27mpg in the city. While not as impressive as some other compacts getting 40+ on the highway, these numbers are very good when considering that the Subaru is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car that is as comfortable on gravel and dirt as it is on pavement.

The engine is a good performer, though the emissions choking for PZEV does hold it back. For a compact not expected to be a race car, though, the Impreza does well in acceleration and exeedingly well in handling. It's tiny 2.0-liter DOHC engine and available 6-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) do a good job of getting the car around. The optional 6-speed manual mode can be engaged with paddle shifts on the steering wheel and the premium sound system and accessories in our test model were well-fitted for this segment.

Great go-anywhere car with just enough room for a small family or active lifestyle singles, the Impreza has the capability of being not only a daily driver, but also the weekend getaway machine.

Very roomy for such a small compact, with a Jersey "2 body" trunk and plenty of head and shoulder room, even for someone of large stature.

Fuel economy could be better in a car this size, though much of the loss is due to the AWD, which is a good tradeoff if you are active outdoors, but don't want the inefficiency of an SUV.

Boring looks are dated and uninspired with the 2012 model. Subaru has been revamping their designs, but seems to have skipped adding anything interesting to the Impreza. It's worth noting that the hatchback is a little more sporty-looking than the coupe.

For those who are active outdoors and like to get around in good comfort without sacrificing economy, the Impreza is a great choice. It's four-wheel independent suspension, vehicle dynamics control (VDC), and Subaru's excellent symmetrical AWD will get you through rain, sleet, snow, or over that dirt road to the lake.

Test Period Length and Limitations
We had our test car for about a week, putting over 700 miles on it in many conditions. The car was taken on the freeway for a 3-hour trip (each way), over a long dirt road and around a lake on dirt paths at Curt Gowdy State Park in Wyoming, as well as on both country highways and graveled county roads.

This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.

View the original article here

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012 Lexus CT 200h Premium – Hybrid Luxury In a Sport Wagon

This Lexus wagon is already an entry-level luxury winner, but adding Lexus Hybrid Drive to achieve 42mpg combined? A whole new ideal of plush genius is born. A beautiful car, a posh ride, and excellent efficiency, all in one package.

Eats asphalt. Sips fuel. With a combined 42 MPG fuel economy rating, the highest of any luxury vehicle, the CT is as efficient as it is exhilarating.

Manufacturer: ToyotaYear, Model: 2012 9900G CT 200h PremiumClass, Type: Luxury wagonPropulsion system: Gasoline-electricFuel(s): GasolineBase Price: $29,120MSRP as tested: $39,940Availability: Now, nationally.

The most striking thing about the new Lexus CT 200h Premium is it's beautiful styling. Most of the time, "station wagon" and "style" don't tend to be uttered in the same breath. This new Lexus is the exception to that. The car is downright beautiful with only one minor flaw: it has a somewhat boxy rear end. Lexus' designers did something that is rarely achieved by making a "sport wagon" actually look sporty – hiding the fact that it's drag coefficient is a remarkable 0.29.

Inside, the CT 200h is very well appointed. It feels like a luxury car from the moment you sit down. In the premium upfit we tested, it was extremely comfortable. Leg, head, and shoulder room are great, even for someone of large stature. The leather trim, high performance audio system, and 10-way adjustable driver's seat are top-line inclusions here.

The 1.8-liter in-line 4-cylinder DOHC engine with variable valve timing (VVT-intelligent) is coupled to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that is electronically controlled. This runs with the Lexus Hybrid Drive system to put out a total of 134 horsepower while holding a Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle (SULEV II) rating. At 43mpg city and 40mpg highway, the EPA gives the CT 200h Premium a 42mpg combined rating – the highest in this segment.

The ride is very smooth and comfortable at city speeds, but on the highway, a definite "over-cushiness" can be felt as the car smooths out and removes most of your feel for the road. On the track, the electric-assist power steering and rack are excellent strengths whose notoriety is destroyed by the car's extremely thick-feeling suspension.

In Eco Mode, the Lexus CT 200h does well in the city, accelerating well enough for most drivers not to notice the dampening impact of the fuel savings on performance, but when getting up to speed on the highway, Eco is definitely felt, holding you back.

Great styling with crossover-like appeal in a modern station wagon. A lot of versatility goes into the station wagon design and Lexus hit it perfectly here.

Excellent economy beyond the average in this segment. The CT 200h has higher efficiency than any other vehicle in the luxury market and is better than most in this size/class of non-luxury as well.

A lot of body roll when cornering. The ultra-plush ride feels more like grandma's car than a sport wagon.

Sluggish acceleration even when not in Eco Mode. A 0-60mph time of 9.8 seconds is alright for this market segment, but the CT somehow makes it feel slower than that.

One of the best cars in this segment that we've tried, hybrid or no. While it doesn't have the handling or speed of a higher-end German vehicle, it does have great style and much higher efficiency than any other entry into the luxury market. With the versatility of a wagon, it's a sure winner for families looking to ride in comfort and style.

Test Period Length and Limitations
This car was driven at a multiple-vehicle ride and drive event that included both on-road time (rural highway, freeway, some city driving) and track time (pictured). Total time in vehicle was about an hour.

This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.

View the original article here

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.

2012 Subaru Impreza 2.0i Premium PZEV - The Go-Anywhere Fuel Sipper

The Suburu Impreza Premium partial zero emissions vehicle (PZEV) is an all-wheel-drive sedan with impressive interior room for a compact. It sports good fuel economy and has all of the goat-like off-track power Subaru is known for.

Its clever engineering combines trademark Subaru control and reliability with added safety, technology and interior space, all while going easier on your wallet, thanks to an impressive 36 miles per gallon.

Also available as a hatchback, the Impreza is a deceptive vehicle on first glance. It appears to be very compact with little trunk space and a cramped interior. Climbing inside and opening the deck lid, however, reveals a car that is much more roomy than anticipated. The trunk is very large, capable of holding a Saturday picnic with all the accessories for a family of four including a double-stroller for the toddlers. The interior is pleasantly laid out and easy accommodates two infant car seats, two adults, and has thoughtful cubbies and storage compartments for water bottles, sunglasses, and so on.

The Impreza 2.0i Premium PZEV is a partial zero emissions vehicle meeting California's standards for that designation. This means it meets federal guidelines for Super-Ultra Low Emissions and has a 15 year warranty on its emissions controls. California, Oregon, Colorado and a few other states recognize PZEVs and give tax breaks or other incentives for purchasing one.

The Impreza, as tested, is capable of 36 miles to the gallon on the highway and 27mpg in the city. While not as impressive as some other compacts getting 40+ on the highway, these numbers are very good when considering that the Subaru is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) car that is as comfortable on gravel and dirt as it is on pavement.

The engine is a good performer, though the emissions choking for PZEV does hold it back. For a compact not expected to be a race car, though, the Impreza does well in acceleration and exeedingly well in handling. It's tiny 2.0-liter DOHC engine and available 6-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT) do a good job of getting the car around. The optional 6-speed manual mode can be engaged with paddle shifts on the steering wheel and the premium sound system and accessories in our test model were well-fitted for this segment.

Great go-anywhere car with just enough room for a small family or active lifestyle singles, the Impreza has the capability of being not only a daily driver, but also the weekend getaway machine.

Very roomy for such a small compact, with a Jersey "2 body" trunk and plenty of head and shoulder room, even for someone of large stature.

Fuel economy could be better in a car this size, though much of the loss is due to the AWD, which is a good tradeoff if you are active outdoors, but don't want the inefficiency of an SUV.

Boring looks are dated and uninspired with the 2012 model. Subaru has been revamping their designs, but seems to have skipped adding anything interesting to the Impreza. It's worth noting that the hatchback is a little more sporty-looking than the coupe.

For those who are active outdoors and like to get around in good comfort without sacrificing economy, the Impreza is a great choice. It's four-wheel independent suspension, vehicle dynamics control (VDC), and Subaru's excellent symmetrical AWD will get you through rain, sleet, snow, or over that dirt road to the lake.

Test Period Length and Limitations
We had our test car for about a week, putting over 700 miles on it in many conditions. The car was taken on the freeway for a 3-hour trip (each way), over a long dirt road and around a lake on dirt paths at Curt Gowdy State Park in Wyoming, as well as on both country highways and graveled county roads.

This site follows the emergence, application and development of transportation innovation. Reference to manufacturers, makes and models, and other automotive-related businesses are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute an endorsement by FutureCars.com.

View the original article here

This post was made using the Auto Blogging Software from WebMagnates.org This line will not appear when posts are made after activating the software to full version.