2012 Buick Enclave Changes

The 2012 Buick Enclave has been teased extensively, but there's still very little info about the next iteration of the crossover SUV. While no date has been announced, the 2012 Buick Enclave is expected in late 2011 given Buick's release schedule. One thing is for certain: the 2012 Buick Enclave will be one of Buick's most luxurious vehicles to date.

Body Style

There has been a lot of speculation over possible updates to the 2012 Enclave's body, but recent photos showed in a CBS interview are thought to be the Enclave and show more similarities than differences to the 2011. If the photos turn out to be legitimate, the 2012 will be slightly longer and sleeker. A full redesign of the Buick Enclave will be more likely in 2013.

Safety Features

The 2012 Enclave will keep the OnStar system of previous Enclaves, and is not likely to deviate from the excellent safety features of the 2011 model which included:
    * Passenger airbags
    * Stolen vehicle assistance
    * Daytime running lamps
    * 4 wheel anti-lock brakes
    * Rear parking assist
    * Tire pressure monitors
    * StabiliTrak (Buick's electronic stability control system)

History

The Enclave has been one of the most reliable high-end SUVs available since its 2008 model was introduced. It's one of the Buick's most successful designs and features quiet operation, power, and reliability.

Options

Luxury might be the best word for the Buick Enclave, which has been commended regularly for its breathtaking interior. Past models have included extras like satellite radio, multiple navigation methods, and temperature control for individual areas of the SUV. Expect the 2012 Buick Enclave to keep up that tradition--it's likely that we'll see a few surprises that will cement the Enclave in place as a high-end SUV with top of the line options.

Performance Specifications

As the Buick Enclave's sales numbers have been improving despite GM's overall financial troubles, the model keeps its resale value fairly well. Part of this is due to its power and reliable performance. The 2012 Enclave will likely use the same 3.0 liter V6 engine and 6 speed transmission as the 2011, but a switch to a different engine would not be unprecedented given the Enclave's place in the Buick lineup.

Similar Models to the 2012 Buick Enclave

Similar crossover SUVs include the Acura MDX and the Audi Q5. The Buick Enclave has traditionally been more feature-rich than these vehicles, especially considering its interior design and extremely quiet operation.

2013 buick enclave

Hitting the market back in 2007, the GMC, Buick and Chevy large crossover trio have continued with strong sales despite almost zero updates. That will change for the 2013 model year, with changes planned for all three of the Lambda machines, although you might not notice the changes at first glance.
Rather than update the appearance of the Traverse, Acadia and Enclave, GM will instead change the only key area that is drawing complaints the interior. In addition to what is expected to be a serious redesign with improved materials, housed in a more modern center stack will be GMs new infotainment system. Called MyLink for Chevrolet or Intellilink for Buick-GMC, look for a large LCD touch screen to control everything from Bluetooth to audio, as well as OnStar integration.
Buick, the fastest growing automotive brands in the United States in 2010, ended the first quarter of calendar year 2011, retail sales by 49 percent and total sales by 39 percent. March also marks the 18th Consecutive month of growth in retail sales increased by 24 percent 2013 buick enclave  and  of 21 percent. Ann Arbor resident Buick Enclave, Lacrosse and shelf are used as a choice,” said Becky Riley Mack Buick GMC. “Mack Buick GMC customers are the elegant, luxurious interior, smart technology and fuel consumption performance balanced and energized Buick models in circulation today.”
About 38 percent of buyers come from non-GM Buick brand and 17 percent of imports.
Regal, which launched last April, helping Buick continued to rise in March, for the sports sedan speeding through a greater availability of the new Turbo Regal CXL, representing 30 percent of retail sales in March Regal demand. The turbo 2.0 liter four cylinder direct injection allows better power and torque than the Acura TSX, with its six speed transmission that offers better fuel economy even with EPA mpg rating Highway 32nd. LaCrosse retail increased in the first quarter of 4 percent. 2012 LaCrosse is eAssist that uses an electric motor and lithium-ion batteries to capture the energy generated during braking.

2012 Buick Enclave

 Buick Enclave

The 2012 Buick Enclave combines the smooth ride and responsive handling of a car, with the cargo capability and high seating position of a sport utility vehicle.
The Enclave is available in either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD). Both trims feature a contemporary design that incorporates trademark styling cues associated with Buicks of the past. The interior features two front bucket seats and can accommodate either seven or eight passengers depending on the seating configuration selected. A direct injection 3.6-liter V6 engine is mated with a six-speed automatic transmission. The Enclave offers a luxurious interior with an extensive list of features and amenities, including standard Bluetooth handsfree connectivity and tri-zone automatic climate control. Available equipment includes a remote engine starter, a ten speaker sound system, a rear DVD entertainment system, and vehicle navigation with a rear backup camera.
The Enclave receives minimal changes for 2012.
The 2012 Buick Enclave marks the model’s fifth year of production, continuing to provide Columbia Buick owners with a world-class choice in seven-passenger crossover vehicles. Minimal changes are coming for 2012, with the removed availability of two colors (Gray Green Metallic and Red Jewel Tintcoat) along with the arrival of Crystal Red Tintcoat as a premium paint option.  Black roof rack cross rails will be available as a limited personalization option, and all-wheel drive Buick Enclave models will have a badge highlighting its extra capabilities.
Perhaps the more significant change for 2012 is Buick’s change in trim levels.  In an effort to streamline the ordering and buying process, Buick has dropped the CX, CXL, and CXL-2 designations on its models in favor of four new packages: Base, Convenience, Leather, and Premium.  The Base model still comes exceptionally well-equipped, with a power rear liftgate, quad captain’s chairs, Bluetooth hands-free connectivity, remote keyless entry, cruise control, tilt/telescopic steering wheel, StabiliTrak stability control, premium-ride suspension, and Buick’s exclusive QuietTuning process all standard equipment.
Upgrading to the Convenience package adds the Driver Confidence Package, including remote vehicle start, ultrasonic rear parking assist, and a rearview camera, while the Leather package adds power heated seats with memory settings for the driver in the front along with leather-appointed seating through all three rows.  The Premium package tops out the range, adding a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system with USB port, articulating headlamps, power-folding outside mirrors, a power tilt/telescoping steering wheel with memory, a 115v household power outlet, chrome-clad 19-inch aluminum wheels, and the all-important heated and cooled front seats that make Columbia summers much more pleasant.

Buick Enclave Stand-Alone Options Continue in 2012

The Bose sound system remains available as a separate option across all packages, while rear-seat entertainment and touchscreen navigation is available separately on Leather and Premium models.  (Base and Convenience package models can choose a rear-seat entertainment system as part of the dealer-installed Ultimate Entertainment Package.) Leather and Premium models are the only ones that will be able to select the popular dual skyscape sunroof with its fixed skylight over the second row of seats.
For added capabilities, the Trailering Provision Package available with all packages allows Enclave to tow up to 4500 pounds when properly equipped.  Featuring a heavy-duty engine cooling system, trailer hitch, and a compact aluminum spare wheel, the package is sure to be a popular option for Columbia Buick drivers looking to tow trailers either across town or across the country.  (The aluminum spare wheel replaces the steel wheel that is available on Base and Convenience models and standard on Leather and Premium models.)

2012 Buick Enclave Arriving Later This Year in Columbia SC

Pricing has not yet been announced for the 2012 Buick Enclave, which will arrive in Columbia, South Carolina later this year.  When it does arrive, it will be available at Jim Hudson Buick in Columbia, South Carolina.  Jim Hudson is the #1 Buick dealer in the entire state of South Carolina, an achievement earned on its unique combination of attractive pricing and exceptional customer service.  Jim Hudson has been voted Best New Car Dealership in the city of Columbia an unmatched ten years and counting by readers of The State, and has been recognized multiple times as a GM Mark of Excellence dealer.  For more information on the 2012 Buick Enclave

2012 Buick LaCrosse

The LaCrosse is a sharp-looking sedan, and Buick made a point of not changing 98 percent of the car's exterior design in fitting it with the eAssist package. The only real change is the addition of model-specific 17-inch alloy wheels wrapped in Michelin Energy Saver A/S 245/50-series rubber. These tires were designed by the Bibendum Bunch specifically for GM, and while we're perfectly happy with the use of these energy-saving tires, we'd be thrilled if they were fitted to slightly larger wheels, if only for aesthetics. The LaCrosse's large dimensions and wheel wells designed to properly house 19-inchers at all four corners just make this eAssist-specific set look teeny-tiny.

What is it?

The midsize Buick LaCrosse looks about the same for 2012, but buyers will notice more oomph with better economy. This extra power boost comes from a new light-hybrid system called eAssist, which will be standard on the four-cylinder LaCrosse going forward.The technology uses stored electric power to provide extra juice, adding up to 15 hp and 79 lb-ft of torque to augment the 182-hp, 172-lb-ft 2.4-liter Ecotec engine. Buick swapped out the alternator for a belt-driven, 15-kilowatt electric-motor generator and a 115-volt lithium-ion battery pack.In launching eAssist, Buick claims its intent is to improve performance and mileage without making any sacrifices to the familiar styling or essence of the LaCrosse. Regenerative braking and fuel shut off during deceleration are meant to cast a green halo on the car without overwhelming its personality or familiar driving dynamics.

What is it like to drive?

The 2012 LaCrosse doesn't feel like a typical “green” car. The eAssist technologies at work manage to exist humbly in the background of the driving experience instead of stealing the limelight.

Buick is advertising the LaCrosse with eAssist as a more refined ride than that of the standard LaCrosse, claiming the system provides a quicker throttle response at cruising engine speeds, thereby creating smoother transitions and reducing the need to downshift as often. We sampled it on various terrains around San Francisco--in rush-hour traffic, on winding roads and coasting on the highway. No matter the circumstance, any hint of electric assist was only apparent with heavy acceleration. The vehicle wasn't fussy going up and down hills or sitting in stop-and-go traffic. It felt as if we were driving the standard LaCrosse, with more of a fun factor when hitting the on-ramp for less money at the pump.
Meanwhile, though it might not meet full-electric standards of silence, the four-cylinder was refined and the ride was Buick-smooth, further camouflaging the green technologies at work.Transitions from one mode to the next didn't produce the slightest shudder, even when repeatedly lifting off and hitting the brake to restart and shut down the engine. If it weren't for the “auto stop” marking where the “0” would typically reside on the tachometer, the stop/start system would have gone unnoticed.

One subtle reminder that this LaCrosse is different is a green ECO gauge below the speedometer--a neat little nonintrusive feature that lets you monitor and correct your sloppy driving to maximize efficiency. If you slam on the brakes or speed up too quickly, the needle wags a disapproving finger by sliding out of the green zone.

One big qualm: the counterintuitive functionality of the control knob in the center display when using the navigation. You zoom in on the map by spinning the knob to the left and minimize by spinning to the right, in total defiance of human instinct. We eventually gave up trying to zoom.

Do I want one?

If you're in the market for an efficient, larger midsize sedan, the LaCrosse with eAssist is worth a close look. This car performs better than the current four-cylinder model, with 26 percent better fuel economy. With eAssist, Buick has done an admirable job of creating a green car with minimal compromise.

2012 Buick LaCrosse with eAssist

On Sale: August

Base Price: $30,820, including destination

Powertrain: 182-hp, 172-lb-ft Ecotec 2.4-liter DOHC inline-four; 15-hp, 79-lb-ft, 15-kilowatt electric motor; FWD, six-speed automatic

Curb Weight: 3,835 lb

0-60 MPH: 9.0 sec (est)

Fuel Economy: 25 mpg city, 36 mpg highway

There are no eAssist badges on the LaCrosse, either – an intentional omission that GM admits will have both positive and negative ramifications. While having a badge on the car is basically free advertising for one's green initiatives, GM didn't want to alter any other parts of the LaCrosse's design, however small. This is an interesting decision, especially from the company that was perfectly okay with fitting an obnoxious decal package

2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SE FWD BLACK

Ford's marketers and PR types have a tremendous job ahead of them: Educating the American consumer
on what company's new Taurus is all about. It's a Herculean task that amounts to nothing more than rebuilding a brand that was once broadly considered an icon – not just of the auto industry – but of American business at large.

Fortunately for the Blue Oval team, they may have an ace-in-the-hole. As we learned driving the 2011 Ford Taurus through Tennessee and North Carolina's Smoky Mountain roads, this new bull shows promise and takes the marque upscale like never before. But be under no illusions – this is a risky move. The Taurus name has never been extended upmarket like this before (let alone in such a waterlogged economy), and it isn't immediately clear who the model's competitors are – a detail that could prove problematic when trying to target customers.

The Chicago-built Taurus is no longer a logical Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Chevrolet Malibu cross-shop – that's the Fusion's turf now. In size, technology, and aspirations, Ford is pushing its new sedan several of rungs up the ladder. Is it the right product for the right time? Perhaps of more immediate concern, is it carrying the right name and will Ford be able to overcome the Taurus brand's baggage and sell America on its virtues?
Further aiding to the Taurus' luxury car ride and quiet is a new rear suspension cradle to which the independent multi-link setup is mounted. Up front is a traditional MacPherson strut assembly with a stabilizer bar, and the result is a serene ride that is neither floaty nor overtly sporting. That crush-n-hush feeling was furthered by our test car's optional 255/45 19-inch Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires, which behaved predictably and went about their business with a minimum of fuss. Steering accuracy through the hydraulic rack-and-pinion setup was good, with appropriate weighting, solid on-center feel, but little in the way of actual feedback.

Admittedly, we encountered some pretty wretched weather on our evaluation drive, with strong rain and serious crosswinds that kept us from pushing our SEL hard on the challenging, unfamiliar roads for much of our drive. Under these inhospitable conditions, the Taurus tracked well, understeered safely and predictably when the radius of a corner tightened up on us a bit more than expected, and the four-wheel disc brakes with traction and stability control reigned everything in agreeably without terribly spongy pedal feel. Ford representatives did much to tout the Taurus' sporty handling, but while our tester never felt unwieldy, it didn't really shrink around us and "drive small," either. We'll have to wait for a second crack at the car in better weather to really put it through its paces, but for now, file this one under "wholly adept, but uninspiring."

Tallying it up:

Base Taurus SE models start at $25,995 ($25,170 plus $825 destination), while the mid-level SEL spec commands $27,170 + D&D. Our example stickered for a tidy $33,380 thanks to a power moonroof, heated "multi-contoured" leather seats and 19-inch alloys. That may strike some shoppers as a big pile of ducats, but one has to remember that this no longer an Accord or Malibu-sized family sedan. More natural comparisons can be drawn with the Toyota Avalon, Buick LaCrosse, and the rear- or all-wheel drive Chrysler 300, The Taurus betters all of them on price, content, interior quality and space (including a mafia-spec 20.1 cubic-foot trunk – just 0.5 cubes shy of a Crown Victoria's), and we'd argue that it's a more complete driver than all of them. But there's one last competitor that has us a bit worried.
As we tried to come to terms with the Taurus during our drive, we couldn't escape a few bars of a Talking Heads song. Specifically: "And you may find yourself behind the wheel of a large automobile... and you may ask yourself – well, how did I get here?" Similarly, in order to appreciate just how radical a departure this 2010 Taurus is, one has to appreciate where the model has been. This is not "same as it ever was" – not by a long shot. Allow us to recap:

Back when it was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model, the original Taurus was nothing less than a watershed family car. Forward-thinking with advanced aerodynamics and a vehicle platform to match, it was a car the likes of which Detroit had never produced and mainstream America had never had the opportunity to buy. The surging Japanese imports sat up and took notice, as did U.S. consumers and the automotive press, both of which fell in love with the distinctive "jelly bean" sedan. Taurus was a smash hit both critically and in terms of sales, but unfortunately, America's warm cockles didn't last.
While the second-generation model (introduced for 1992) didn't do much to alter the love affair, subsequent models clouded the Taurus' brand identity and found Ford floundering about trying to determine what consumers wanted out of a mid-sized sedan. In the case of the guppy-mouthed 1996 model, that floundering bordered on literal, as the Jack Telnack designed third-generation Taurus drew ire for its fish-like avant-garde styling and form-over-function utility.
The long-serving 2000-2007 model year updo that followed corrected some of the third-generation Taurus' oversights (i.e. limited trunk space and rear seat headroom), but by then, the Japanese had plus-sized their own offerings and turned up the wicks on their powertrains, all but confining the Taurus to also-ran status. That model would wither away and retreat into fleet-only status in the U.S. in 2006, at which point, the Blue Oval decided to supplant the Taurus with two distinct models – the smaller Fusion and the full-size Five Hundred. The latter was high riding and particularly capacious, yet the ultimately milquetoast sedan didn't connect with consumers or pundits. Thinking that the model's lackluster market response might have had something to do with the unfamiliar name, Ford would in turn exhume the Taurus moniker and slap it on the rump of a tweaked Five Hundred for 2007. It was an expedient fix, and the market recognized this move for what it was.

To sum up how Taurus went from America's hope to America's rental lots, the Blue Oval took it from an ahead-of-its-time, streamlined mid-size flagship to an oddly ovoid and unloved design statement, to a behind-the-curve, emergency badge-engineered full-size car. Along the way, there have been an array of wagons, a couple of notable high-performance SHO variants (and one forgettable one), but there has never been a Taurus quite like this new model.
Impressive new duds

One thing becomes immediately clear from the moment you clap eyes on the new variant – despite being based on the same D3 platform as the outgoing Five Hundred/Taurus sleeping pill, this is a radically different and altogether more confident and cohesive design. Oh, some might take issue with the mildly fussy three-bar grille treatment, but to put it simply, this new Taurus is ripped. Check out the bold sheet metal creases at the beltline and in the rocker panels; the strong U-form chamfering in the hood that's echoed in the trunk lid; the piercing, assertive headlamps and the 427 Concept-like rump.


This is a big car with a sizeable rear overhang (at 202.9 inches overall – it's exactly seven inches larger than a Hyundai Genesis), and it could very easily have looked lumpen or slab-sided and larded-upon like its predecessor. Instead, the Taurus' appearance is crisp and assertive, very much the proverbial linebacker in a tailored suit. Even the door mirrors are compellingly and purposefully sculpted. While the new design looks handsome in every color we've seen, it truly stands out in shades like Ingot Silver and Gold Leaf; colors that yield greater definition than darker shades (Like our Tuxedo Black tester) that cover up some of the more inspired surface details.

Inside, the Taurus' modernization story continues, with a T-shaped double-hooded instrument panel that features a dramatic swept-back waterfall center console bisecting driver and passenger. All controls fall readily and logically to hand, the switchgear looks and feels good to the touch, and the ice blue backlit gauges are easy-to-read. Every 2010 Taurus steering wheel is wrapped in leather regardless of model trim, and the dashboard and door cap materials are well grained and have more give to the touch than anything in recent memory.
We could have done without the fake wood inlays, but as far as trim goes, they're a reasonable facsimile of dead tree and they don't detract from the cabin's premium ambience. The gear selector is gratuitously outsized for smaller hands, but its aesthetic keeps with the designers' wish to move the Taurus away from rental-car wallflower to broad-shouldered leading man. Whether you've stepped into an SE, SEL, or top-shelf Limited model, this is a solid, mature environment that's light years ahead of the 2009 model. Indeed, this Taurus possesses a better-executed cabin than we've seen in some luxury cars costing in excess of $10,000 more.

We can't leave our discussion of the interior without talking about some of the available niceties on this new Taurus. Judging by the presentations we sat through at the car's launch event, the Dearborn team is justifiably proud of the bumper crop of available technologies that they've crammed into their new baby. In light of its modest price point, the Taurus should be a shoo-in "Tech Car of the Year" candidate for the boys and gals over at CNET.

Not only can you get Ford's voice-activated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link (in our estimation, probably the best such system in the business – irrespective of price), but you can also get such luxury features as a gangbusters Sony Dolby 5.1 surround system with the usual connectivity options (aux, USB) plus Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth and DVD audio, as well as a ten gig hard drive for music and image storage. There are available heated and cooled "Multi-Contoured" seats with "Active Motion" massaging, an optional power rear sunshade like on your neighbor's BMW, switchable ambient lighting, power memory pedals, and so on. And even if you don't plump for the nav system, if you opt for Sync, you can still get audible turn-by-turn directions using a paired Bluetooth phone. We tried this system and found it to be less satisfying to use than the full-on nav interface, but it's a welcome low-cost alternative and a nice safety net if you get lost.
Safety First

While the Taurus has plenty of creature comforts, there's also a raft of safety features available, including adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system that pre-charges the brakes, a blind spot information system and even cross-traffic alert to make sure the path is clear when backing out of parking spots. Our SEL tester wasn't equipped with these features, so we'll have to wait to pass judgment on their utility.
One noteworthy safety feature is Ford's new MyKey system that allows parents to alter the vehicle's performance parameters and set warnings to effectively mandate safer driving for the youngins. For instance, adults can use the system to lock out the traction-control defeat button (no smoky burnouts for Junior), impose a top speed of 80 mph (no street racing for Junior), lower the maximum volume of the stereo (no stoplight concerts for Junior), and it can even be programmed to activate the belt-minder chime incessantly and keep the stereo muted until the front seat occupants are buckled (no crash ejection seat for Junior). Kids may not like these features, but we're betting that a host of parents will. Aside from the big-mother safety features, the Taurus can also be fitted with conveniences like rain-sensing wipers, auto-high beam headlamps, and capless fuel filling.

A seriously refined and comfy cruiser

If you've noticed that we have yet to touch on our actual driving impressions, that's because any thoughts of them almost get lost in the sea of options and tech that Taurus has on offer. It isn't because the car's dynamic behavior is unpleasant or disappointing, mind you – this Ford is, in fact, overwhelmingly competent. It's just that the car's actual performance abilities seem almost incidental to what is, for all intents and purposes, a luxury cruiser – an epic road-trip sedan. Like most of its potential competition, the Taurus is a machine that coddles occupants with vast equipment levels and a luxurious ride, not a sports sedan that goads one into clipping apexes en-route to the grocery store.
On our test run from Knoxville, Tennessee to Asheville, North Carolina, we drove what's anticipated to be the company's volume seller – a front-drive SEL. Although Ford's much talked-about 3.5-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6 is available on the all-wheel drive SHO, "normal" Taurus models are equipped with the Blue Oval's tried-and-true 3.5-liter normally aspirated V6, tuned here to dish out 263 horsepower (at 6,250 rpm) and 249 pound-feet of torque (at 4,500 rpm) on good ol' 87 octane. That motivation is channeled exclusively through a new six-speed automatic with manual gear selection available via a pair of wheel-mounted push-pull rockers (which look suspiciously like those of a BMW). No manual transmission is available.

Paired to our Taurus' porky 4,015-pound frame (optional all-wheel drive adds a further 200+ pounds), we found off-the-line and mid-range acceleration to be perfectly adequate and drama-free, with crisp, well-timed shifts. The manual rockers (pull to upshift, push to downshift) work quite well, but it was annoying that they are not enabled unless you first select the "M" (manual) detent on the gearshift selector. This is particularly inconvenient when a quick downshift-to-pass is called for. Leave the paddles alone and the EPA says you'll achieve 18 mpg city and 28 out on the freeway, figures that are par for the course for this size automobile.

Aural feedback of any sort is kept to a bare minimum – triple door seals, laminated side glass and all manner of sound deadeners conspire to suffocate all noises before they enter the cabin, delivering honest-to-goodness luxury car hush with hardly any drivetrain, wind, rain, and road noise. We prefer our rides with a bit more mechanical character in evidence, but we figure like-minded folks are in the minority when it comes to this class of vehicle, so the silence is just as well.

2011 Ford Taurus Limited 4dr Sdn Limited AWD

Features & Specifications *
closeMechanical

    3.5L V6 Duratec engine
    6-speed SelectShift automatic transmission -inc: paddle activation
    All-wheel drive
    Pwr steering

    4-wheel anti-lock disc brakes w/brake assist
    Easy Fuel capless refueling
    Dual chrome exhaust tips

closeExterior
    P255/45R19 all-season BSW tires
    19" chrome-clad aluminum wheels
    Compact spare tire
    Automatic wiper-activated halogen headlamps
    Remote perimeter lighting
    Supplemental park lamps

    Incandescent tail lamps -inc: chrome surround
    Chrome accent heated pwr mirrors -inc: memory, puddle lamps
    Solar tinted glass
    Fixed interval intermittent windshield wipers
    Body-color door handles

closeOther

    AM/FM stereo w/6-disc CD/MP3 changer -inc: additional IP center speaker & amplifier
    Satellite radio -inc: 6-month pre-paid subscription *N/A in AK or HI*

    SYNC voice-activated communications & entertainment system -inc: Bluetooth capability, steering wheel audio controls, USB port, audio input jack, 911 assist, vehicle health report, turn-by-turn navigation, real-time traffic

closeInterior

    Perforated-leather 10-way pwr front bucket seats -inc: driver seat memory
    60/40 split fold-flat rear seat w/adjustable head restraints -inc: fold down armrest w/cupholders
    Vinyl-wrapped front center console -inc: armrest, front covered cupholders/storage bin, removable trinket tray
    Front/rear carpeted floor mats -inc: LIMITED branded front floor mats
    Front sill plates w/bright metal insert
    Leather-wrapped tilt/telescoping steering wheel w/wood trim -inc: cruise & audio controls
    Instrumentation cluster -inc: message center w/trip computer, compass, outside temp
    Pwr windows w/driver one-touch up/down & front passenger controls -inc: driver/passenger global-open controls
    Delayed accessory lighting
    Pwr door locks
    Remote keyless entry w/SecuriCode entry keypad -inc: integrated key-head transmitter
    Universal garage door opener
    SecuriLock passive anti-theft system
    Perimeter anti-theft alarm
    Cruise control

    Dual-zone air conditioning w/automatic temp control, particulate air filter
    Rear seat heat ducts
    Rear window defroster
    Lockable glove box w/damped door
    (3) auxiliary pwr points
    Interior woodgrain trim
    Electrochromic rearview mirror w/microphone
    Sliding front sunvisors w/illuminated visor vanity mirrors
    Ambient lighting
    Front dome/map lamp
    Rear seat reading lamps
    Leather-wrapped shift knob w/chrome insert
    Front seatback map pockets
    Cargo net

closeSafety

    Brake & engine actuated traction control
    AdvanceTrac w/electronic stability control
    Dual-stage front air bags w/front passenger sensing system
    Front side-impact air bags
    Safety Canopy front/rear curtain airbags w/rollover sensor
    SOS Post-Crash Alert System
    Reverse sensing

    Rear view camera *Rearview mirror based. Displays through navigation system when 58N Navigation System is ordered*
    MyKey system -inc: top speed limiter, audio volume limiter, early low fuel warning, programmable speed alert chimes, BeltMinder w/audio mute
    Personal safety system -inc: safety belt pretensioners, load-limiting retractors, driver seat position sensing, crash severity sensing
    BeltMinder for driver/front passenger safety belts
    Lower anchors & tethers for children (LATCH) system on rear outboard seat locations
    Child safety rear door locks

closeEPA Fuel Economy & Specification
    Vehicle Name : Taurus
    Body Style : 4 Door Sedan
    Drivetrain : All Wheel Drive
    EPA Classification : Large Cars
    Passenger Capacity : 5
    Passenger Volume (ft3) : 102.2
    Base Curb Weight (lbs) : 4224
    Tons/yr of CO2 Emissions @ 15K mi/year : 9.3
    EPA Greenhouse Gas Score : 4
    Fuel Economy Est-Combined (MPG) : 20
    EPA Fuel Economy Est - City (MPG) : 17
    EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy (MPG) : 25
    Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt. (lbs) : 1000
    Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt. (lbs) : 100
    Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt. (lbs) : 1000
    Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt. (lbs) : 150
    Engine Order Code : 99W
    Engine Type : Gas V6
    Displacement : 3.5L/213
    Fuel System : SMPI
    SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM : 263 @ 6250
    SAE Net Torque @ RPM : 249 @ 4500
    Trans Order Code : 44J
    Trans Type : 6
    Trans Description Cont. : Automatic w/OD
    Trans Description Cont. Again : SelectShift
    First Gear Ratio (:1) : 4.48
    Second Gear Ratio (:1) : 2.87
    Third Gear Ratio (:1) : 1.84
    Fourth Gear Ratio (:1) : 1.41
    Fifth Gear Ratio (:1) : 1.00
    Sixth Gear Ratio (:1) : 0.74
    Reverse Ratio (:1) : 2.88
    Clutch Size (in)
    Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1) : 3.39
    Suspension Type - Front : Independent
    Suspension Type - Rear : Independent
    Suspension Type - Front (Cont.) : MacPherson Strut
    Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.) : Multi-Link

    Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Front (in) : 1.14
    Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Rear (in) : 0.83
    Front Tire Order Code : TBQ
    Rear Tire Order Code : TBQ
    Spare Tire Order Code
    Front Tire Size : P255/45VR19
    Rear Tire Size : P255/45VR19
    Spare Tire Size : Compact
    Spare Wheel Size (in) : Compact
    Front Wheel Material : Aluminum
    Rear Wheel Material : Aluminum
    Spare Wheel Material : Steel
    Steering Type : Pwr Rack & Pinion
    Steering Ratio (:1), Overall : 17.0
    Turning Diameter - Curb to Curb (ft) : 41.0
    Brake Type : Pwr
    Brake ABS System : 4-Wheel
    Disc - Front : Yes
    Disc - Rear : Yes
    Drum - Rear : No
    Rear Drum Diam x Width (in)
    Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx (gal) : 19.0
    Front Head Room (in) : 39.0
    Front Leg Room (in) : 41.9
    Front Shoulder Room (in) : 57.9
    Front Hip Room (in) : 56.3
    Second Head Room (in) : 37.8
    Second Leg Room (in) : 38.1
    Second Shoulder Room (in) : 56.9
    Second Hip Room (in) : 55.8
    Wheelbase (in) : 112.9
    Length, Overall (in) : 202.9
    Width, Max w/o mirrors (in) : 85.7
    Height, Overall (in) : 60.7
    Track Width, Front (in) : 65.3
    Track Width, Rear (in) : 65.5
    Liftover Height (in) : 30.4
    Trunk Volume (ft3) : 20.1

2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SEL AWD DEEP RED

2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SEL AWD

Most Taurus models are front-wheel drive standard, with all-wheel drive optional. Standard power comes from Ford's 263-horsepower, 3.5-liter V6, coupled with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The high-performance variant that powers the Taurus SHO is a 3.5-liter, twin-turbocharged "EcoBoost" V6, which makes 365 horsepower and 350 ft-lb of torque. The engine's two small turbos permit it to make peak torque just above idle. The engine also has direct injection, which Ford claims delivers "the power of a V8 and the efficiency of a V6."
Taurus SHO includes SelectShift paddle shifters, which allow the driver to command the 6-speed automatic transmission's shifts for curves or mountain roads. Torque-sensing all-wheel-drive is standard on the SHO and it employs electromechanical clutches to send torque to the wheels with the most grip. Electronic power steering works with the sport-tuned suspension to handle the power and bring an agile feel.
The SHO gets a number of other performance features designed to help drivers get the most out of the driving experience. The electronic stability control comes with a "Sport Mode," and the SHO rides on Eagle F1 summer performance tires on painted wheels. Inside, the SHO gets "Miko Suede" seat inserts made from recycled materials, plus aluminum-trimmed pedals and aluminum trim throughout. Multi-contour heated-and-cooled seats are available, and there's also a 12-speaker Sony surround sound audio system.
The regular Taurus is offered in three trim levels: SE, SEL and Limited. SEL models get painted aluminum wheels and chrome exhaust tips; they also get supplemental parking lamps and heated exterior mirrors. The top-of-the-line Limited adds power leather seats, a reverse sensing system and a premium sound system that includes the Sync voice-driven interface for phones and portable music devices. Limited models also get showy 19-inch chromed aluminum wheels.
The Taurus is one of the top-rated vehicles in its class in crash tests and comes with a long list of safety features, including stability control, anti-lock brakes, front side airbags, side-curtain airbags, a Post-Crash Alert System and crash severity sensing.
Across the Taurus line, technology features are emphasized, with several features showcased. The Cross Traffic Alert and a Collision Warning system promise to aid safety, while Intelligent Access and a MyKey entry system allow parental control programmability. Sirius Travel Link, a set of features for the navigation system that brings live traffic information, weather forecasts, gas prices, and other info, is also available, as are adaptive cruise control and rain-sensing wipers.
2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SEL AWD

Transmission

Drivetrain: All Wheel Drive
Trans Order Code: 44J
Trans Type: 6
Trans Description Cont.: Automatic w/OD
Trans Description Cont. Again: SelectShift
First Gear Ratio (:1): 4.48
Second Gear Ratio (:1): 2.87
Third Gear Ratio (:1): 1.84
Fourth Gear Ratio (:1): 1.41
Fifth Gear Ratio (:1): 1.00
Sixth Gear Ratio (:1): 0.74
Reverse Ratio (:1): 2.88
Clutch Size: N/A
Final Drive Axle Ratio (:1): 2.77

Vehicle

EPA Classification: Large Cars
EPA Greenhouse Gas Score: 4

Interior Dimensions
Passenger Capacity: 5
Passenger Volume: 102.2
Front Head Room: 39.0
Front Leg Room: 41.9
Front Shoulder Room: 57.9
Front Hip Room: 56.3
Second Head Room: 37.8
Second Leg Room: 38.1
Second Shoulder Room: 56.9
Second Hip Room: 55.8

Weight Information

Base Curb Weight: 4224

Mileage

EPA Fuel Economy Est - Hwy: 25
Cruising Range - City: 323.00
EPA Fuel Economy Est - City: 17
Fuel Economy Est-Combined: 20
Cruising Range - Hwy: 475.00

Trailering

Dead Weight Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.: 1000
Dead Weight Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.: 100
Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Trailer Wt.: 1000
Wt Distributing Hitch - Max Tongue Wt.: 150

Engine

Engine Order Code: 99W
Engine Type: Gas V6
Displacement: 3.5L/213
Fuel System: SMPI
SAE Net Horsepower @ RPM: 263 @ 6250
SAE Net Torque @ RPM: 249 @ 4500

Electrical

Cold Cranking Amps @ 0° F (Primary): N/A
Maximum Alternator Capacity (amps): N/A

Cooling System

Total Cooling System Capacity: N/A

Suspension

Suspension Type - Front: Independent
Suspension Type - Rear: Independent
Suspension Type - Front (Cont.): MacPherson Strut
Suspension Type - Rear (Cont.): Multi-Link
Shock Absorber Diameter - Front: N/A
Shock Absorber Diameter - Rear: N/A
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Front: 1.14
Stabilizer Bar Diameter - Rear: 0.83

Tires
Front Tire Order Code: TC5
Rear Tire Order Code: TC5
Spare Tire Order Code: N/A
Front Tire Size: P235/55R18
Rear Tire Size: P235/55R18
Spare Tire Size: Compact

Wheels
Front Wheel Size: 18 x -TBD-
Rear Wheel Size: 18 x -TBD-
Spare Wheel Size: Compact
Front Wheel Material: Aluminum
Rear Wheel Material: Aluminum
Spare Wheel Material: Steel

Steering
Steering Type: Pwr Rack & Pinion
Steering Ratio (:1), Overall: 17.0
Lock to Lock Turns (Steering): N/A
Turning Diameter - Curb to Curb: 41.0
Turning Diameter - Wall to Wall: N/A

Brakes
Brake Type: Pwr
Brake ABS System: 4-Wheel
Brake ABS System (Second Line): N/A
Disc - Front (Yes or ): Yes
Disc - Rear (Yes or ): Yes
Front Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness: N/A
Rear Brake Rotor Diam x Thickness: N/A
Drum - Rear (Yes or ): N/A
Rear Drum Diam x Width: N/A

Fuel Tank
Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx: 19.0
Aux Fuel Tank Capacity, Approx: N/A

Exterior Dimensions
Wheelbase: 112.9
Length, Overall: 202.9
Width, Max w/o mirrors: 85.7
Height, Overall: 60.7
Track Width, Front: 65.3
Track Width, Rear: 65.5
Min Ground Clearance: N/A
Liftover Height: 30.4

2011 Ford Taurus 4dr Sdn SE FWD

Back when it was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model, the original Taurus was nothing less than a watershed family car. Forward-thinking with advanced aerodynamics and a vehicle platform to match, it was a car the likes of which Detroit had never produced and mainstream America had never had the opportunity to buy. The surging Japanese imports sat up and took notice, as did U.S. consumers and the automotive press, both of which fell in love with the distinctive "jelly bean" sedan. Taurus was a smash hit both critically and in terms of sales, but unfortunately, America's warm cockles didn't last.
While the second-generation model (introduced for 1992) didn't do much to alter the love affair, subsequent models clouded the Taurus' brand identity and found Ford floundering about trying to determine what consumers wanted out of a mid-sized sedan. In the case of the guppy-mouthed 1996 model, that floundering bordered on literal, as the Jack Telnack designed third-generation Taurus drew ire for its fish-like avant-garde styling and form-over-function utility.
The long-serving 2000-2007 model year updo that followed corrected some of the third-generation Taurus' oversights (i.e. limited trunk space and rear seat headroom), but by then, the Japanese had plus-sized their own offerings and turned up the wicks on their powertrains, all but confining the Taurus to also-ran status. That model would wither away and retreat into fleet-only status in the U.S. in 2006, at which point, the Blue Oval decided to supplant the Taurus with two distinct models – the smaller Fusion and the full-size Five Hundred. The latter was high riding and particularly capacious, yet the ultimately milquetoast sedan didn't connect with consumers or pundits. Thinking that the model's lackluster market response might have had something to do with the unfamiliar name, Ford would in turn exhume the Taurus moniker and slap it on the rump of a tweaked Five Hundred for 2007. It was an expedient fix, and the market recognized this move for what it was.
To sum up how Taurus went from America's hope to America's rental lots, the Blue Oval took it from an ahead-of-its-time, streamlined mid-size flagship to an oddly ovoid and unloved design statement, to a behind-the-curve, emergency badge-engineered full-size car. Along the way, there have been an array of wagons, a couple of notable high-performance SHO variants (and one forgettable one), but there has never been a Taurus quite like this new model.
Impressive new duds

One thing becomes immediately clear from the moment you clap eyes on the new variant – despite being based on the same D3 platform as the outgoing Five Hundred/Taurus sleeping pill, this is a radically different and altogether more confident and cohesive design. Oh, some might take issue with the mildly fussy three-bar grille treatment, but to put it simply, this new Taurus is ripped. Check out the bold sheet metal creases at the beltline and in the rocker panels; the strong U-form chamfering in the hood that's echoed in the trunk lid; the piercing, assertive headlamps and the 427 Concept-like rump.
This is a big car with a sizeable rear overhang (at 202.9 inches overall – it's exactly seven inches larger than a Hyundai Genesis), and it could very easily have looked lumpen or slab-sided and larded-upon like its predecessor. Instead, the Taurus' appearance is crisp and assertive, very much the proverbial linebacker in a tailored suit. Even the door mirrors are compellingly and purposefully sculpted. While the new design looks handsome in every color we've seen, it truly stands out in shades like Ingot Silver and Gold Leaf; colors that yield greater definition than darker shades (Like our Tuxedo Black tester) that cover up some of the more inspired surface details.

Inside, the Taurus' modernization story continues, with a T-shaped double-hooded instrument panel that features a dramatic swept-back waterfall center console bisecting driver and passenger. All controls fall readily and logically to hand, the switchgear looks and feels good to the touch, and the ice blue backlit gauges are easy-to-read. Every 2010 Taurus steering wheel is wrapped in leather regardless of model trim, and the dashboard and door cap materials are well grained and have more give to the touch than anything in recent memory.
We could have done without the fake wood inlays, but as far as trim goes, they're a reasonable facsimile of dead tree and they don't detract from the cabin's premium ambience. The gear selector is gratuitously outsized for smaller hands, but its aesthetic keeps with the designers' wish to move the Taurus away from rental-car wallflower to broad-shouldered leading man. Whether you've stepped into an SE, SEL, or top-shelf Limited model, this is a solid, mature environment that's light years ahead of the 2009 model. Indeed, this Taurus possesses a better-executed cabin than we've seen in some luxury cars costing in excess of $10,000 more.

We can't leave our discussion of the interior without talking about some of the available niceties on this new Taurus. Judging by the presentations we sat through at the car's launch event, the Dearborn team is justifiably proud of the bumper crop of available technologies that they've crammed into their new baby. In light of its modest price point, the Taurus should be a shoo-in "Tech Car of the Year" candidate for the boys and gals over at CNET.

Not only can you get Ford's voice-activated navigation system with Sirius Travel Link (in our estimation, probably the best such system in the business – irrespective of price), but you can also get such luxury features as a gangbusters Sony Dolby 5.1 surround system with the usual connectivity options (aux, USB) plus Sirius satellite radio, Bluetooth and DVD audio, as well as a ten gig hard drive for music and image storage. There are available heated and cooled "Multi-Contoured" seats with "Active Motion" massaging, an optional power rear sunshade like on your neighbor's BMW, switchable ambient lighting, power memory pedals, and so on. And even if you don't plump for the nav system, if you opt for Sync, you can still get audible turn-by-turn directions using a paired Bluetooth phone. We tried this system and found it to be less satisfying to use than the full-on nav interface, but it's a welcome low-cost alternative and a nice safety net if you get lost.
Safety First

While the Taurus has plenty of creature comforts, there's also a raft of safety features available, including adaptive cruise control, a collision warning system that pre-charges the brakes, a blind spot information system and even cross-traffic alert to make sure the path is clear when backing out of parking spots. Our SEL tester wasn't equipped with these features, so we'll have to wait to pass judgment on their utility.
One noteworthy safety feature is Ford's new MyKey system that allows parents to alter the vehicle's performance parameters and set warnings to effectively mandate safer driving for the youngins. For instance, adults can use the system to lock out the traction-control defeat button (no smoky burnouts for Junior), impose a top speed of 80 mph (no street racing for Junior), lower the maximum volume of the stereo (no stoplight concerts for Junior), and it can even be programmed to activate the belt-minder chime incessantly and keep the stereo muted until the front seat occupants are buckled (no crash ejection seat for Junior). Kids may not like these features, but we're betting that a host of parents will. Aside from the big-mother safety features, the Taurus can also be fitted with conveniences like rain-sensing wipers, auto-high beam headlamps, and capless fuel filling.

A seriously refined and comfy cruiser

If you've noticed that we have yet to touch on our actual driving impressions, that's because any thoughts of them almost get lost in the sea of options and tech that Taurus has on offer. It isn't because the car's dynamic behavior is unpleasant or disappointing, mind you – this Ford is, in fact, overwhelmingly competent. It's just that the car's actual performance abilities seem almost incidental to what is, for all intents and purposes, a luxury cruiser – an epic road-trip sedan. Like most of its potential competition, the Taurus is a machine that coddles occupants with vast equipment levels and a luxurious ride, not a sports sedan that goads one into clipping apexes en-route to the grocery store.

2011 Ford Taurus SE FWD

 

Ford Taurus SE 4dr FWD Sedan

The Taurus is Ford's new flagship that offers full-size car interior dimensions, luxury car interior quietness, a top safety rating as well as advanced technology, to give it's owners confidence on the road.
The front-wheel or all-wheel drive Taurus is powered by a 263-hp 3.5-liter direct injection V6 engine and six-speed automatic transmission with the option of steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. The Taurus redesign also marks the return of the SHO performance model, powered by a twin-turbo version of the 3.5-liter V6, it produces 365-hp and channels that through standard all-wheel drive and a paddle-shifted six-speed automatic transmission. Standard safety features include electronic stability and traction control, four-wheel anti-lock brakes, six airbags, ignition disable and post-crash SOS alert. There are many kinds of technology features available such as Cross Traffic Alert, Collision Warning, MyKey parental features, SYNC, capless refueling, touch-pad keyless entry, adaptive cruise control, blind spot detection, rain-sensing wipers and intelligent keyless entry.
For 2011, three new colors have been added, and high definition (HD) radio has been added to the navigation system.
Ford's marketers and PR types have a tremendous job ahead of them: Educating the American consumer on what company's new Taurus is all about. It's a Herculean task that amounts to nothing more than rebuilding a brand that was once broadly considered an icon – not just of the auto industry – but of American business at large.

Fortunately for the Blue Oval team, they may have an ace-in-the-hole. As we learned driving the 2011 Ford Taurus  through Tennessee and North Carolina's Smoky Mountain roads, this new bull shows promise and takes the marque upscale like never before. But be under no illusions – this is a risky move. The Taurus name has never been extended upmarket like this before (let alone in such a waterlogged economy), and it isn't immediately clear who the model's competitors are – a detail that could prove problematic when trying to target customers.

The Chicago-built Taurus is no longer a logical Toyota Camry, Honda Accord and Chevrolet Malibu cross-shop – that's the Fusion's turf now. In size, technology, and aspirations, Ford is pushing its new sedan several of rungs up the ladder. Is it the right product for the right time? Perhaps of more immediate concern, is it carrying the right name and will Ford be able to overcome the Taurus brand's baggage and sell America on its virtues?

A big suit to fill?

As we tried to come to terms with the Taurus during our drive, we couldn't escape a few bars of a Talking Heads song. Specifically: "And you may find yourself behind the wheel of a large automobile... and you may ask yourself – well, how did I get here?" Similarly, in order to appreciate just how radical a departure this 2010 Taurus is, one has to appreciate where the model has been. This is not "same as it ever was" – not by a long shot. Allow us to recap:

Back when it was introduced in 1985 as a 1986 model, the original Taurus was nothing less than a watershed family car. Forward-thinking with advanced aerodynamics and a vehicle platform to match, it was a car the likes of which Detroit had never produced and mainstream America had never had the opportunity to buy. The surging Japanese imports sat up and took notice, as did U.S. consumers and the automotive press, both of which fell in love with the distinctive "jelly bean" sedan. Taurus was a smash hit both critically and in terms of sales, but unfortunately, America's warm cockles didn't last.

While the second-generation model (introduced for 1992) didn't do much to alter the love affair, subsequent models clouded the Taurus' brand identity and found Ford floundering about trying to determine what consumers wanted out of a mid-sized sedan. In the case of the guppy-mouthed 1996 model, that floundering bordered on literal, as the Jack Telnack designed third-generation Taurus drew ire for its fish-like avant-garde styling and form-over-function utility.

 

2011 Ford Taurus

 The 2011 Taurus is a 4-door, 5-passenger family sedan, available in 6 trims, ranging from the SE FWD to the SHO AWD.

Upon introduction, the SE FWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 263-horsepower engine that achieves 18-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. The SHO AWD is equipped with a standard 3.5-liter, V6, 365-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 17-mpg in the city and 25-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard on both trims. 

What's New for 2011

Only minor equipment changes are in store for the 2011 Ford Taurus. The Limited and SHO models gain a standard rearview camera, while Sync–equipped models receive a complimentary three-year subscription to the new Traffic, Directions and Information service. The optional navigation system now includes HD radio capability.

Introduction

Whether it's actors or athletes, everybody loves a good comeback story. When it was introduced in 1986, the original Taurus helped revolutionize the midsize family sedan segment. But then years of neglect caused the Taurus' star to dim. Now a comeback is in order, as Ford redesigned the Taurus just last year to make buyers take notice once again.
The 2011 Ford Taurus continues to be a full-size sedan, leaving the midsize category to the Fusion. Its styling is hardly the revolutionary concept that the original Taurus was, but it's nevertheless attractive and more interesting than the previous model. On the inside you'll find a handsome design and top-quality materials. Perhaps most appealing is the generous passenger room and a trunk that's bigger than nearly everything else on the market.
While the Taurus makes for a comfortable family vehicle, those looking for some extra muscle can consider the SHO version. Powered by a twin-turbo V6 known as the EcoBoost, this engine sends 365 horsepower to all four wheels, yet returns the same fuel economy as the normally aspirated 263-hp V6. The SHO is a worthy competitor to Chrysler's Hemi V8-powered 300C and Lincoln's MKS, but given its hefty price, you'd be wise to check out luxury sport sedans as well.
As for the more common regular Taurus, it competes with both full-size family sedans and entry-level luxury cars depending on trim level. Base models compare favorably with the Honda Accord, Hyundai Azera and Toyota Avalon, but the top-of-the-line Limited doesn't strike us as a particularly good bargain when pitted against the more luxurious and refined Hyundai Genesis.
Even so, we still think pretty highly of the 2011 Ford Taurus. Other than a couple interior design missteps and the SHO variant's hefty price, the Taurus is largely vice-free. With its roomy, comfortable interior and full complement of cutting-edge convenience and safety features, the new Taurus looks to be an American nameplate poised to make a dramatic comeback.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Ford Taurus is a full-size sedan that seats five people. It is available in SE, SEL, Limited and SHO trim levels. Standard equipment on the SE includes 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic headlights, keyless entry with an access keypad, cruise control, a six-way power driver seat (manual recline), a 60/40-split-folding rear seat, a tilt-and-telescoping steering column, steering-wheel audio controls and a six-speaker stereo with CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary audio jack.
The SEL adds 18-inch wheels, automatic transmission paddle shifters, heated mirrors, dual-zone automatic climate control, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, upgraded cloth upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and satellite radio. Options on the SEL include 19-inch wheels, rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, a power passenger seat, ambient lighting, leather upholstery and the hands-free Sync system, which allows you to control compatible cell phones and MP3 players with simple voice commands. All Sync-equipped models also get a complimentary three-year subscription to the new Traffic, Directions and Information service.
These items are standard on the Taurus Limited, which also gets eight-way power front seats with power lumbar and driver memory functions, a wood-trimmed steering wheel and an upgraded stereo with a six-disc CD/MP3 player.
The Taurus SHO adds a more powerful engine, a sport-tuned suspension, xenon headlamps, an auto-dimming exterior driver mirror (optional on Limited), a rear spoiler, keyless ignition/entry (optional on SEL and Limited), upgraded leather upholstery and faux-suede upholstery inserts. The SHO Performance package adds performance brake pads, recalibrated steering, a different final-drive ratio, stability control defeat, summer tires and 20-inch wheels. Those wheels are also a stand-alone option.
The SEL can be optioned with heated front seats, while the Limited and SHO can be equipped with a blind-spot warning system, automatic wipers, automatic high beams, keyless ignition/entry, adaptive cruise control, heated and cooled front seats, heated rear seats, power rear window shade and a navigation system with voice controls, touchscreen, Sirius Travel Link (real-time traffic, weather and other information), a single-CD player, DVD audio and digital music storage. All Taurus models but the base SE can be optioned with a sunroof, "multicontour" seats with active bolsters and a 12-speaker Sony sound system.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Taurus is powered by a standard 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 263 hp and 249 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is standard. On all trims except the SE, the transmission features manual shift control and downshift rev-matching capability. Front-wheel drive is standard with this engine and all-wheel drive is available on SEL and Limited trim levels. Fuel economy with front-wheel drive is an EPA-estimated 18 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined. All-wheel drive drops it to 17/25/20.
The Taurus SHO features a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 making 365 hp and 350 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed automatic with shift paddles is standard. Every SHO is all-wheel drive. Despite its impressive output, estimated fuel economy is the same as the regular all-wheel-drive Taurus.

Safety

Every 2011 Ford Taurus comes standard with antilock disc brakes, stability and traction control, front side airbags and side curtain airbags. Optional safety features include a blind-spot warning system, pre-collision warning system, a cross-traffic warning system (when reversing) and rear parking sensors. A rearview camera is standard on Limited and SHO models and optional on the SEL.
In the government's new, more strenuous crash testing for 2011, the Taurus earned an overall rating of four stars out of a possible five, with four stars for overall frontal crash protection and five stars for overall side crash protection.It also got the best rating of "Good" in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety's frontal-offset, side and roof strength tests.

Interior Design and Special Features

Inside, the 2011 Ford Taurus offers a cabin that's surprisingly upscale, though some hard plastics on the center console detract from this effect. The interior also gets high marks for comfort, especially the adult-friendly backseat. The rear seatbacks can also be folded down for rare occasions where the cavernous trunk's 20.1 cubic feet of cargo room isn't sufficient. Unfortunately, the car's high beltline, thick pillars and tall center console can make the cabin seem a bit confining.
The Taurus' control layout is quite functional overall, despite the abundance of buttons for the climate control and audio systems, and the deep-set gauges that can be hard to read. Models equipped with the Sync system allow the driver to access a wide variety of functions on their compatible cell phone or MP3 player with voice commands, all without ever taking their eyes off the road or hands off the steering wheel. The three-year complimentary subscription to Sync's new Traffic, Directions and Information service also allows the driver to call up info ranging from real-time traffic reports to personalized info like news headlines and sports scores the same way.

Driving Impressions

Whether cruising down the interstate or battling cross-town traffic on surface streets, the 2011 Ford Taurus remains unexpectedly quiet thanks to fine-tuned aerodynamics and strategically placed sound insulation. Ride quality is equally good, even with the SHO model's stiffer suspension. Handling feels stable and secure, though the lack of steering feel and its substantial proportions keep the car from feeling particularly sporty even in SHO trim.
The standard V6 engine provides decent acceleration for everyday driving. Pony up for the turbocharged Taurus SHO and you'll get significantly more oomph without a drop in fuel economy.

2011 Audi TT

The 2011 TT is a 2-door, up to 4-passenger luxury sports coupe, or luxury convertible, available in two trims, the 2.0T Prem Plus Coupe quattro S tronic and the 2.0T Prem Plus Roadster quattro S tronic.

Upon introduction, both trims are equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 211-horsepower, turbo engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 31-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed automatic transmission with overdrive is standard. 
Lyra, who always wanted to drive Audi's TT, brought high expectations to the little convertible. Peter, never particularly impressed with the roadster's styling, had few expectations. The end result: Lyra was disappointed, while Peter loved the car. Go figure.
Appearance: The squat roadster sits on 18-inch tires and has a wide stance that recalls Audi's R8 supercar, which we loved. The TT's design, however, is simple, with fender flares and a backward-sweeping body crease as its only sheet-metal flourishes. The black grille, which got tweaked for 2011, is trimmed in chrome, and Audi's signature LED "eyeliner" lights are sharp.
Performance: Here's what we agreed on: The 6-speed S tronic dual-clutch automatic shifted flawlessly. We always prefer a manual transmission, but this automatic was almost as fun. For a small roadster, the TT absorbs bumps well and has a firm, composed ride. There's also an auto-deployed spoiler and, of course, Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system. The 2-liter, 211-horsepower 4-cylinder is more than enough power (0-60 in 5.6 seconds) for the small car, which has an exhaust note that is subtle and throaty. Here's what we didn't agree on: Lyra was let down by the "significant" turbo lag; Peter felt it was only "slight." The steering was a "bit too light" for Lyra's taste, while Peter thought it gave just the right amount of feedback.
Interior: We may have disagreed on the car's performance, but we are unified on the well-appointed interior. The Nappa leather seats are well-bolstered and comfortable. Our tester had bright red seats that contrasted beautifully with the rich black exterior. The instrument gauges are simple and uncluttered yet easy to read. The flat-bottom steering wheel might take some getting used to for some. Peter drove the TT to Miami and he had enough head- and legroom. Impressive. And he arrived in South Florida not feeling like a pretzel. Another surprise: The TT's trunk, even with the folding soft top, actually had enough room for the bags he and his wife took on their weekend getaway. That's impressive for a small convertible. A few nits: The storage panel behind seats felt a bit plasticky considering the rest of the interior; the driver's floor mat was flimsy and popped easily off its anchor. We both spent time popping it back on.
Protection: Front, head/thorax and knee airbags plus side intrusion protection and roll bars.
Profile: The roadster looks slick with top up or down.
Seats: Bright red seats and interior trim scream "sports car."

2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata Sport snowy

The 2011 MX-5 Miata is a 2-door, 2-passenger convertible sports car, available in 6 trims, ranging from the Sport to the Special Edition Power Retractable HT.

Upon introduction, the Sport is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 167-horsepower engine that achieves 22-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 5-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard. The Special Edition Power Retractable HT is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 167-horsepower engine that achieves 21-mpg in the city and 28-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.

The 2011 MX-5 Miata is a carryover from 2010. 

• Stability control only offered in priciest model, and only with an expensive option bundle
• Automatic transmission adds significantly to the price
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The Mazda MX-5 Miata was the car that kicked off the modern-day roadster craze back in 1989, and it remains one of my favorite two-seaters. New for 2007 is an optional power-operated retractable hardtop. Does the metal roof make the Miata any more (or less) loveable? We took the Miata on a long trip through New York State to find out, with Mother Nature giving us ample opportunity to find out just how weatherproof the hardtop Miata really is. Base price $21,280, price as tested $29,795, EPA fuel economy 22-25 MPG city, 30 MPG highway.
"We've certainly put this little car through hell, haven't we?" my wife Robin said as we drove through the suburbs of Manhattan. "Sailed" might be a better description; New York was getting one of the heaviest rainstorms on record and the Hudson Parkway, known for flooding, was starting to look more like the Hudson River. We were nearing the end of a 10-day 1,500-mile trip through New York State in the MX-5 Miata. Less than 50 of those miles were driven with the top down; most of our trip was cold, rainy and snowy It turned out to be a lousy trip for a convertible but a great test of the Miata's power retractable hardtop roof, a new-for-2007 $1,870 option. Despite the almost uniformly crappy weather, the Mazda MX-5 Miata proved itself, once again, to be the ideal touring companion -- even with the top up.

2011 Mazda MX-5 MIATA

Introduction

For more than two decades now, the Mazda Miata has been thrilling sports car purists with its elemental charms. The first Miata called to mind the British roadsters of the 1960s, except the Mazda also boasted a stiff chassis, reliable electrics, an engine that didn't mark its territory with oil and a soft top that was easy to operate and wouldn't try your patience and bust your nails.
Now in its third generation, the Miata continues to offer more of the same, with lively handling, communicative steering, a happy-to-rev power plant and an affordable price. The 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata doesn't change one whit compared to last year's model. We see absolutely nothing wrong with this and doubt anyone else does either.
Though the 167-horsepower output of the MX-5 Miata's four-cylinder engine might seem  meager in a world of 270-hp family sedans, it doesn't have to move nearly as much weight as a sedan, since a base-model Miata weighs only about 2,500 pounds. And should you opt for the power-retractable-hardtop model, you're only taking on another 70 pounds for the additional weather protection, noise insulation and parking security. Whether you choose a base Miata or a loaded one, you'll find that a hugely entertaining driving experience, a generous roster of features and daily comfort are all standard fare.
As you can probably tell, we think rather highly of the 2011 Mazda Miata. In fact, the modern Miata has no real competition, as would-be rivals such as the Pontiac Solstice/Saturn Sky twins and the Honda S2000 are history and high-end roadsters such as the BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster are in another economic realm.
The Mazda's closest rival would be the Mini Cooper convertible, which isn't as capable in terms of handling but is still fun to drive and offers the bonus of a pair of very small backseats. One might also consider the Ford Mustang V6 convertible, which now offers a powerful engine and respectable handling, though not the compact dimensions and point-and-shoot dynamic of the Mazda.
Considering this, it seems that the story is the same even after 20 years. Car shoppers looking for a fun, zippy and affordable roadster need look no further than their friendly neighborhood Mazda dealer.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is a two-seat roadster that is offered in three trim levels: base Sport, well-equipped Touring and premium Grand Touring. All come standard with a manually operated soft top, while the top two trims can be had with a power-retractable hardtop (PRHT).
In Sport trim, standard features include 16-inch cast-aluminum wheels, a black vinyl convertible top with a glass rear window, air-conditioning, cloth seats, a six-speaker sound system with a CD/MP3 player and an auxiliary audio jack, a height-adjustable driver seat, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and power windows and mirrors.
The Touring model adds 17-inch alloy wheels, a shock tower brace for the front suspension, foglights, cruise control, power door locks, keyless entry, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, a trip computer, a six-CD changer, steering-wheel-mounted audio controls and a leather-wrapped shift knob. The Grand Touring steps up with the choice of a black or beige cloth top, automatic climate control, leather upholstery, heated seats, a seven-speaker Bose audio system and silver interior accents. The PRHT models are identically equipped.
Most options are grouped in packages. Sport models can be equipped with the Convenience package that includes most of the Touring upgrades (this package is included in Miatas with automatic transmissions). Touring and Grand Touring models can enhance the Miata's already nimble handling with the Suspension package (only available with a manual transmission), which includes a sport-tuned suspension with Bilstein shocks and a limited-slip differential. The Grand Touring qualifies for the Premium package that features stability control, keyless ignition/entry, xenon headlights, Bluetooth and satellite radio. An Appearance package adds a different front spoiler and extended rocker sills.
Also available this year is the limited-production Miata Special Edition. It's essentially a Grand Touring PRHT with the Premium package and, if it's a manual transmission, the Suspension package. The Miata Special Edition also includes unique exterior and interior colors.

Powertrains and Performance

The 2011 Mazda Miata is powered by 2.0-liter inline-4 engine that produces 167 hp (158 with the automatic transmission) and 140 pound-feet of torque. Sport models come standard with a five-speed manual transmission, while Touring and Grand Touring models come with a six-speed manual transmission. All models have the option of a six-speed automatic with shift paddles on the steering wheel.
In testing a Miata with a five-speed manual transmission, we found the car could sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in a reasonably quick 6.9 seconds. Fuel economy is also impressive at an EPA-estimated 22 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 24 mpg in combined driving for the five-speed manual. The six-speed manual and automatic sacrifice only 1 mpg in city mileage.

Safety

Antilock disc brakes and side airbags are standard. Stability control is available as an option on the Grand Touring model only, however.

Interior Design and Special Features

Sitting behind the wheel of a 2011 Mazda Miata, you'll get the feeling that you're wearing the car, rather than sitting in it. The fit is snug for average-sized adults, but not cramped. Taller drivers, however, have found that the seat runs out of rearward travel, although there's loads more room than in previous-generation Miatas. As always, this Miata features simple, legible gauges along with well-placed, user-friendly controls.
The manual convertible top's operation is as simple as it gets -- push a button, pull a lever and toss the top over your shoulder. Dropping the top takes only a few seconds and raising it is just as easy. With practice, some longer- and stronger-limbed drivers can raise the roof without even leaving the seat. The power-retractable hardtop takes a bit longer to transform from coupe to roadster, but the added convenience, noise isolation and security make it a good choice as a daily driver.
One of the biggest drawbacks for small convertibles is a lack of trunk space, and the Miata is no exception. The 5.3 cubic feet of trunk space is barely enough for a weekend getaway and golf bags take quite a bit of wrestling to stow -- if they fit at all. Points are also deducted for the disappointing top-down stereo performance. Even the upgraded Bose system suffers from poorly aimed speakers that fail to envelop the occupants.

Driving Impressions

One of the Miata's greatest attributes continues to be its ability to bound from corner to corner on a tight and winding road. This ability is due in no small part to a suspension and steering feel that are as communicative as a political pundit in an election year. The seat-of-the-pants feel and feedback from the wheel give the Miata the goods to satisfy nearly any driving enthusiast, though some horsepower junkies may yearn for more under-hood punch.
Still, the free-revving four-cylinder always seems eager to play and the short-throw manual gearbox is as good as it gets. Drivers with less sporting intentions should still find the 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata easy to live with and comfortable for long stints in either top-up or top-down mode.

2011 Chrysler 300

Chrysler's relatively small lineup just got considerably better with the latest 300 sedan thanks to vast improvements across the board, making the brand's halo vehicle a competitive luxury sedan.
The all-new Chrysler 300 arrives with a sticker price of just $27,995, including $825 in destination, despite the fact that the base 300 now comes with a significantly more powerful 292 horsepower 3.6-liter V6, improved cloth seats and 17-inch wheels.
Buyers wanting a little more luxury can step up the the Limited trim level, which starts at $31,995. The Limited adds leather, heated seats, Uconnect voice command and 18-inch wheels.
While we wait for the fire-breathing SRT8 model, the 300C will stand as the line's top offering, commanding a price of $38,995. The 300C adds a 5.7-liter V8, heated steering wheel, power adjustable pedals, power folding mirrors and LED interior lighting. An all-wheel drive version of the 300C is also available for $41,145.
The 5.7-liter-equipped 300 is expected to hit 0-60 in 5.4 seconds.
Chrysler goes high-tech
A sophisticated dashboard-mounted UConnect Touch infotainment system is set to take on Ford’s MyTouch by offering numerous convenience and connectivity features. Chrysler says that the 8.4-inch screen - just over an inch smaller than an Apple iPad - is the largest standard screen in the segment.
Other interior upgrades include new blue back lighting for the gauges, more contoured seats and, Chrysler says, vastly improved interior materials.
Like its Dodge Charger platform mate, the new 300 features a very thorough facelift, leaving elements of the current design somewhat intact. The interior is clearly vastly improved, addressing what was often the biggest complaint with the previous generation of the vehicle.
A new front end looks like it will tone down the Bentley influences in favor of something a bit more chiseled and modern, and clearly has familial ties with its little brother Chrysler 200 sedan.
The side sills have been reworked, and there are visible changes to the side window profile. The small triangle at the rear-side window is gone, resulting in an enlarged glass area, but a thin pillar appears to reduce the size of the roll-down portion of the side glass.
The rear-end gets new LED tail-lights, a reshaped trunk lid, and a new rear bumper with integrated exhaust tips which are more a part of the rear styling.
Underpinning the new 300 will be Chrysler’s new LY architecture — essentially a heavy rework of the outgoing LX chassis. However, some components have been carried over. Fiat is said be planning future cars on the LY platform as well.
In order to improve fuel economy, Chrysler employed a combination of improved aerodynamics, axle ratios and drivetrains for the latest 300. At the heart of the improvements is Chrysler's all-new Pentastar V6 engines.
The new Pentastar 3.6-liter V6 replaces both V6s that were offered in the LX cars, improving both fuel economy and performance.
Although an eight-speed automatic transmission is planned for the new LY cars, the first year of the new 300 will have to make due with a five-speed unit.
All-wheel drive also returns for the newest model, with the 300 offering a class-exclusive transfer case that allows the front axle to disconnect from the drivetrain when AWD is not needed. Chrysler says the feature can improve fuel economy by up to 5 percent.

2010 Toyota Matrix

The 2010 Toyota Matrix  is esstially a tall hatchback  version of Corolla  thesedan; though it's shorter and a bit easier to park, it has an interior that's more easily reconfigured for larger cargo items. Sometimes called the Toyota Corolla Matrix, it comes with all the qualities that make the  Corolla sedan appealing, including an affordable price, good fuel economy, and a reasonably comfortable ride. For 2010, the Matrix jumps up with respect to safety, with electronic stability newly standard on the model line.

With its recent redesign, as an early 2009 model, the Matrix picked up a lower, sportier stance, yet retained similar proportions to the previous version. Overall, it flows a little more, thanks to a more contoured roofline and a number of sculpted details. The seating position is a little lower, and interior styling has been given more matte-metallic trim, though the overall effect is simple and unmistakably.

What's New for 2010

After a redesign last year, the 2010 Toyota Matrix is unchanged except for the notable addition of standard stability control.

Introduction

The Corolla-based 2010 Toyota Matrix hatchback reminds us that the folks at Toyota can still make a darned good small car when they put their minds to it. We've been underwhelmed by the latest Corolla, to put it mildly, but its Matrix cousin is a thoroughly competent effort. It's certainly no hot rod, but we're pretty sure most compact hatchback or wagon buyers care more about practicality than performance. And for them, the 2010 Matrix is one of the most compelling choices in this segment.
In many ways, the Matrix is like Corolla version 2.0. Its sheet metal is far more stylish, its 3 extra inches of height boost passenger space, and its convenient hatchback/wagon design means you can haul a lot of stuff. This cargo-carrying capacity is one of the Matrix's biggest draws -- with 61.5 cubic feet of space, this modestly sized Toyota can haul nearly as much as some compact SUVs. Yet its fuel economy with the base 1.8-liter engine is still quite good at 28 mpg combined. The Matrix costs a grand or two more than the Corolla, but its verve and versatility make it well worth the extra coin.
Unfortunately, the economical 1.8-liter engine is only available on the base model. If you want the additional feature content of the S or XRS model, a larger 2.4-liter engine is mandatory. The 2.4 engine adds some punch, but fuel economy drops to 24 mpg combined. All-wheel drive is optional on the S model, dropping fuel economy to 22 mpg. Notably, both the S AWD and XRS models feature a more advanced independent double-wishbone rear suspension in place of the standard torsion-beam setup, moderately improving the Matrix's handling behavior.
Of course, the Matrix is no Mazda 3 when the going gets twisty. But that hasn't kept myriad Matrix owners from driving home with smiles on their faces, and we expect this trend to continue. There's a reason Europeans love hatchbacks and wagons: They drive like cars and haul like SUVs. Americans now have many such models available to them, including the aforementioned Mazda 3 (all-new this year), the all-wheel-drive Subaru Impreza, the impressive Hyundai Elantra Touring, the premium-built Volkswagen Rabbit and even Toyota's own Scion xB. Each of these cars has its own particular set of merits, but for a compact hatchback offering practicality and style in equal measures, the 2010 Toyota Matrix stands tall.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options

The 2010 Toyota Matrix is a compact hatchback available in three trim levels: base, S and XRS. All-wheel drive is optional on the midrange S. The base car features 16-inch steel wheels, power mirrors, air-conditioning, a CD stereo with an auxiliary audio jack, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel and a fold-flat front passenger seat. Cruise control, keyless entry and power windows and locks are optional on this version of the Matrix but standard on the S, which also adds a rear window wiper, underbody spoilers, an upgraded stereo and a 115-volt utility outlet. The all-wheel-drive version of the S loses the spoilers, but it gains foglights and an independent rear suspension. The top-of-the-line Matrix XRS tacks on 18-inch alloy wheels, a rear roof spoiler, sport-tuned suspension and steering, upgraded seat fabric and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.
A sunroof and an in-dash CD changer are optional across the board. Optional on the S and XRS only are a JBL sound system, satellite radio, a navigation system with real-time traffic, and an auto-dimming rearview mirror.

Powertrains and Performance

On the base front-wheel-drive Toyota Matrix, you'll find a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated at 132 horsepower and 128 pound-feet of torque. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, and a four-speed automatic is optional. Matrix S and XRS models upgrade to a 2.4-liter engine that makes 158 hp and 162 lb-ft of torque, as well as an optional five-speed automatic alongside the standard five-speed manual. The AWD S comes only with the four-speed automatic.
Equipped with the 1.8-liter engine, the Matrix returns above-average fuel economy -- 26 mpg city/32 mpg highway and 28 mpg combined with the manual, according to the EPA, while the four-speed auto yields 25/31/28. City mileage takes a dive if you opt for the larger engine: Ratings are 21/28/24 mpg with the manual, 21/29/24 mpg with the automatic and 20/26/22 mpg with AWD.

Safety

The 2010 Toyota Matrix comes standard with stability control and antilock disc brakes, with the S and XRS boasting larger discs all around. Also standard are front-seat side airbags and full-length side curtain airbags. In government crash testing, the Matrix scored a perfect five stars for frontal and front-seat side impacts, dropping to four stars for rear-seat side impacts. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Matrix its highest rating of "Good" in both frontal-offset and side impact crash testing.

Interior Design and Special Features

Inside, the Matrix has a significantly edgier ambience than the Corolla. If you think this compact sedan's interior lacks flair, the Matrix is the antidote. A telescoping steering wheel and ample seat-track travel allow drivers of all sizes to get comfortable, and the controls are both intuitive and attractive. In back, the tall, deep bench is inviting for children and adults alike, and it folds completely flat in 60/40 sections. Fixed tie-down points and rubber inserts help keep cargo from sliding around. There are 19.8 cubic feet of luggage capacity behind the rear seats and an impressive 61.5 cubes with the seats folded flat (note that this figure also likely takes into account the folded front passenger seat).

Driving Impressions

The base Matrix accelerates sluggishly off the line with its 1.8-liter engine, but its admirable fuel economy will redeem it in the eyes of many shoppers. The 2.4-liter engine in the S and XRS is the opposite -- power is ample, but fuel economy is just OK. The ride is smooth and well-insulated. The 2010 Toyota Matrix may not be the sportiest economy hatchback, but its refinement is laudable.

 

VEHICLE INFORMATION

Year:

2010

Make:

Toyota

Model:

Matrix

Trim:

5dr Wgn Auto S FWD

Body Style:

Station Wagon

Engine:

Gas I4 2.4L/144

Trans:

Automat