The CX-7 is a five-passenger crossover with two engine options: the Base 4-cylinder “i” model, and a Turbocharged “s” model. The “i” model is available in three trims and the “s” model in two. The i SV has a 2.5L/161hp 4-cylinder engine that has 161 ft-lbs. of torque and a double overhead cam. The i SV has a 5-speed shiftable automatic transmission and front-wheel drive.

EPA estimates put the i SV at 20 MPG city and 27 MPG highway. The s Touring and s Grand Touring offer all-wheel drive and a 2.3L/244hp Turbo engine with 6-speed shiftable automatic transmission. The s Grand Touring with AWD gets 17 MPG city and 21 MPG highway, one of the lowest fuel efficiency ratings for any 2012 crossover.

The CX-7 i SV measures 184.3 inches long, 64.8 inches high and 73.7 inches wide. With all seats in place the cargo capacity is 29.9 cubic feet and maximum capacity is 58.6 cubic feet, an average amount of space. Front head room is 39.7 inches and front leg room is 41.7 inches. Rear head room is 39.3 inches and rear leg room is 36.4 inches. Headroom is good in every seat, but rear leg room is more crowded than in other SUV’s like the Chevy Equinox. Curb weight of the CX-7 base model is 3543 pounds.

The interior design and standard features help set the CX-7 apart from the pack. Controls are sporty and edgier than in most other crossovers, with a three-spoke steering wheel and cluster gages. Ergonomics and smooth graining help to offset the hard plastics and give an overall appearance of quality and polish.

Standard features include remote power door locks, cruise control, speed-proportional power steering and air conditioning. The CX-7 also offers interior air filtration, front reading lights, an AM/FM in-dash CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo and speed sensitive volume control.

Optional for the i SV are Sirius satellite radio, a DVD entertainment system, all-weather floor mats and a auto-dimming mirror with compass. Upgrading to the s Grand Touring will get you mirrored turn signals, Bose Premium speakers, 6 CD stereo capability, Bluetooth wireless data link and a DVD based display with voice directions navigation system.
Standard safety features include a 4-wheel anti-lock brake system, front and rear head airbags, side curtain airbags, an engine immobilizer and electronic brakeforce distribution.

The CX-7 also comes standard with emergency braking assist, traction control and driver/passenger head restraint whip lash prevention systems. The CX-7 scored the highest possible rating of “Good” in frontal-offset and side-impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, but received the second-worst rating of “Marginal” for in the roof strength test.

Pros of the CX-7 include the Sporty handling and a strong performance from the turbocharged engine. The ride is smooth and controlled and the CX-7 really does a great job blending comfort with sport. On the cons list is the underpowered base engine, sluggishness and dismal fuel economy. And while the turbocharged engine puts the power on par with a V6, this engine also gives the CX-7 the worst fuel efficiency rating in its class.

When all the numbers are reviewed, the CX-7 isn’t on good equal footing with its counterparts the Kia Sportage and Subaru Forester. True, it looks great and rides like a dream. But for fuel conscious customers who need flexible second row seating and more power from the Base model of their crossover, the CX-7 would not be an ideal choice.

Further Reading:

Mazda CX-5 launch means end for CX-7
The launch of the new Mazda CX-5 SUV signals the end of sales of the company’s larger SUV, the CX-7. Mazda’s UK boss, Jeremy Thompson, told What Car? that, once the CX-5 was on sale, there was no point selling the CX-7, which is dearer to buy and run, …
www.whatcar.com

2013 Mazda CX-5 Grand Touring – New Design Language
Yet everyone agrees that the Kodo look is much more mature than Mazda’s previous offerings. “When compared to the outgoing CX-7 crossover, the CX-5 is much more mainstream and is pretty attractive,” notes managing editor Amy Skogstrom.
www.automobilemag.com

Image Source By David Villarreal Fernández (Mazda CX-7) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

The Outlander Sport comes in two models: the base ES and the SE. It is a front-wheel drive crossover SUV with a 4×4 wheel drive option for the SE model. It has a 2.0 L/148hp 4-cylinder engine, a curb weight of 3032 pounds and a gross weight of 4343 pounds. The transmission is a 5-speed manual for the ES, with optional automatic CVT, and both SE models have automatic transmission standard. It is much smaller than its counterpart the Outlander, measuring 169.1 inches long, 64.2 inches high and 69.7 inches wide. The Outlander Sport uses regular unleaded fuel and holds up to 16.6 gallons. EPA mileage estimates put it at 24 MPG city and 31 MPH highway, which falls a bit short for city mileage compared to some other crossovers.

Mitsubishi has a good overall safety record, and the Outlander Sport is no exception. Standard safety features include a driver-side knee airbag, front side airbags, side curtain airbags, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, traction and stability control hill and start assist. Both the ES and the SE also offer auto delay off headlamps, remote anti-theft alarm system, passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation and electronic brakeforce distribution. The SE kicks the list up a notch, adding a xenon high intensity discharge headlamp. The Outlander Sport received four out of five stars for overall crash protection in government crash tests, with four stars for frontal and side-impact protection. In testing conducted by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Outlander Sport scored the highest possible rating of “Good” in frontal-offset and side-impact tests.

The Outlander Sport is no luxury crossover, but you’ll still see plenty of features. Standard on the ES is a 12V front power outlet, tilt and telescopic steering wheel, air conditioning and heated power mirrors. The interior features air filtration, cruise control, external temperature display and low fuel level warning. On the entertainment side there is a standard AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo, speed sensitive volume control, Auxiliary audio input and iPod integration and a USB connection. Upgrading to the SE will give you six speakers, 140 watts stereo output and Bluetooth. Most impressive of all, perhaps, is the Fuse voice activation system for hands-free controlling of some basic navigation and audio functions.

What you won’t see plenty of, unfortunately, is roominess. The Outlander Sport offers a mere 21.7 cubic feet with all seats in place and a maximum cargo capacity of 49.5 cubic feet. Front head room is 39.4 inches and front leg room is 41.6 inches. Rear head room is 37.9 inches and rear leg room is 36.3 inches. The ride is definitely quieter with the Outlander Sport, but if you will need heavy hauling capability the Honda CR-V or Chevy Equinox are better bets. And while small or medium size passengers and drivers will be fine, taller drivers might feel somewhat cramped.

Factors on the plus side for the Outlander Sport are the smooth, quiet ride and good bang for your features bucks. Controls are easy to operate and placed in smart locations and the Fuse voice activation system renders hands-free control for some audio and navigation features. On the minus side is the limited cargo capacity, mediocre power for passing and highway entry, and body roll in the handling. Vehicles like the Nissan Juke or Kia Sportage offer a better, more enjoyable driving performance.

Compared to the regular Outlander, the Sport does not live up to reputation. Still, if a smooth, quiet ride that’s decent for long trips and lots of features for a low price are what you’re looking for, the Outlander Sport is not a bad choice.

Further Reading:

Outlander Sport among Mitsubishi’s best
Lacking the advertising budget and massive dealer network of much of its competition, Mitsubishi products are easily overlooked. For several of them, that’s a shame. Case in point: The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, a compact SUV that does everything well …
www.chicagotribune.com

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
By Model The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is a compact crossover that’s aimed at those who dwell in the city, rather than the suburbs. Shorter than the Outlander, which is more of a utility vehicle in purpose, but about as tall and wide as that model, …
www.thecarconnection.com

Mitsubishi Outlander Sport PHEV Will Make Its Way To US By 2013
By Sebastian Bivin on July 12, 2011 Mitsubishi is investing heavily in the plug-in hybrid craze with reports coming out that their 2009 Tokyo Motor Show concept Outlander Sport plug-in hybrid will make its way to North American markets by 2013 and one …
speedlux.com

Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The Juke comes in three trims: the base model S, the SV, and the deluxe model the SL. All three feature a 1.6L/188hp 4-cylinder engine that has 177 ft-lbs. of torque and a double overhead cam. The S model is available in both CVT front-wheel and all-wheel drive, while the SV and SL have both these options plus a 6-speed manual transmission. All three have MacPherson strut front suspension and Torsion beam rear suspension. EPA estimates put the Juke at 27 MPG city and 32 MPG highway for the front-wheel drive S model and 25 MPG city/30 MPH highway for the SL AWD automatic. The S model has a 13.2 gallon fuel tank. All models are recommended for use with premium unleaded fuel.

Safety features are plentiful and include front-seat side airbags and side curtain airbags, antilock disc brakes, active front head restraints and stability and traction control. The Juke also comes standard with an emergency interior seatback release, electronic brakeforce distribution and driver/passenger head restraint whiplash protection systems. The Juke received four out of five stars for overall crash protection in government crash tests, with three stars for frontal-impact protection (four stars driver, three stars front passenger) and five stars for side-impact protection. The Juke scored the highest possible rating of “Good” in frontal-offset, side-impact and roof-strength crash tests in tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

The Juke measures 162.4 inches long, 61.8 inches high and 69.5 inches wide. With all seats in place the cargo capacity is 10.5 cubic feet and maximum capacity is 35.9 cubic feet. Curb weight is 2959 pounds and gross weight is 3968 pounds. Although its size does give an advantage to the Juke in terms of engine power and speed, the lack of space is a disadvantage when compared to what competitors like the Kia Soul or Ford Fiesta offer.

What the Juke lacks in spaciousness it makes up for with interior design and features. The cabin is well-designed, with organic colors and curves, and there are plenty of compartments. Standard features include air conditioning, interior air filtration, front reading lights, an AM/FM in-dash CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo, auxiliary audio input and iPod integration and six total speakers. There is also a Bluetooth wireless data link and a radio data system. Upgrading to the SL will get you Rockford Fosgate premium brand speakers, XM with NavTraffic satellite radio, a USB connection and a leather and simulated alloy steering wheel.

Pros of the Juke are the all-wheel drive options, the reasonable price, sharp handling and precise performance. Its sport-tuned suspension and comfortable front seats make for a great driving experience, while the fuel economy and speed add a definite edge over other competitors. On the downside, the lack of cargo space may be a serious issue for heavy haulers, and headroom is very limited for backseat passengers. Ride quality is a bit stiff and the extensive hard plastics in the interior are not classy.

When all is said and done, however, the Juke is fun to drive, has very good gas mileage and offers a lot of features at a pleasant price. If you want something small and affordable with lots of pizzazz, the Juke definitely delivers.

Further Reading:

2011 Nissan Juke SV FWD M/T – Visiting the Big Apple
Will absence make our hearts grow fonder of the Four Seasons Nissan Juke? The Ann Arbor-based Automobile Magazine staff members will find out, because the quirky hatchback just left for a stay on the East Coast with senior editor Joe Lorio, …
www.automobilemag.com

Nissan Juke-R, ‘world’s fastest crossover,’ to go into limited production
Originally created as a promotional stunt, the Nissan Juke-R will now go into limited production for an exclusive number of customers willing to spend some serious cash. Just how serious? Reports say the SUV/sports car crossover will go for $590000 a …
www.nydailynews.com

Nissan Juke-R Available In A Limited Production Run – Web Exclusive
Three orders have come already for the Juke-R and Nissan plans to take orders in the next four weeks. After the enormous success of the Nissan Juke-R crossover debut in Dubai last January. Nissan will make the Juke-R available for purchase in a limited …
www.eurotuner.com

Image Source By U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (safercar.gov) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The base sedan model of the SX4 has a 6-speed manual transmission. There is no upgrade option for automatic in the base model, though the LE Popular Package and the Sport SE both come with automatic standard. The base model offers a 2.0L/150hp 4-cylinder engine with 16 valves and 140 foot-pounds of torque. All sedan models come with front-wheel drive and feature MacPherson strut front suspension and Torsion beam rear suspension. The fuel tank holds up to 13.2 gallons of regular unleaded. EPA fuel economy estimates the SX4 sedans at 23 city MPG and 33 highway MPG.

The base hatchback model, the SportBack, has a 6-speed manual transmission with optional CVT automatic transmission. It offers a 2.0L/150hp 4-cylinder engine with 16 valves and 140 foot-pounds of torque. The SportBack and SportBack Technology have front-wheel drive but the Crossover and Crossover Premium come with all-wheel drive. All four feature MacPherson strut front suspension and Torsion beam rear suspension. The fuel tank holds up to 13.2 gallons of regular unleaded. EPA fuel economy estimates the SportBack at 22 city MPG and 30 highway MPG. The Crossover Premium, by comparison, comes in at 23 MPG city and 29 MPG highway.

In terms of passenger and cargo space, the SX4 excels. The base sedan measures 176.8 inches long, 60.8 inches high and 68.1 inches wide. Cargo capacity with all seats in place is 15.5 cubic feet. Curb weight is 2,744 pounds. The SportBack manual model is 162.0 inches long, 61.8 inches high and 69.1 inches wide. Maximum cargo capacity is 51.8 cubic feet. Curb weight is 2,734 pounds. All feature a standard 3 year/36,000 mile basic warranty and 3 year/36,000 mile roadside warranty.

Safety features include emergency braking assist, emergency interior trunk release (sedans), tire pressure monitoring and passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation. All SX4 models come with antilock disc brakes, side curtain airbags for all outboard passengers, front- and rear-seat side airbags and stability control. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the SX4 the top rating of “Good” in both frontal-offset and side-impact tests, but the second-worst score of “Marginal” in roof strength tests.

Standard features offer very little in either comfort or entertainment. The base sedan has no air conditioning or CD player, though it does come with front reading lights, a 12 V power outlet and power steering, door locks, windows and mirrors. There is an element antenna and four speakers. Upgrading opens the door to lots of excellent options, however. If you choose the LE Popular Package it adds air conditioning, a four speaker stereo system with CD player and audio input jack, cruise control and remote keyless entry. The SportBack fares about the same, with similar features to the base sedan model, though a navigation system is an option. The Crossover Premium will get you air conditioning, cruise control, an AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo and a leather and simulated alloy steering wheel.

The biggest pro of the SX4 is its affordability, with even the Crossover AWD automatic version coming in at just $19,649. The amount of cargo space for the size is another definite plus, as are the fuel economy considering the horsepower and the 7 year/100,000 mile drivetrain warranty. Unfortunately, the cons far exceed the pros in terms of comfort. Elevated seats favor shorter drivers, and no telescoping steering column make it difficult to be comfortable behind the wheel. Medium and tall people will have a lack of legroom. The AWD models offer a shorter fuel range which means more frequent fuel-ups. The heavy curb weight negates the engine advantages for the most part and interior materials are inferior to other comparable vehicles.

If affordability and cargo space are your biggest concerns, the SX4 is not a bad choice. But if comfort and better standard features are what you value most, you’re better off looking elsewhere.

Suzuki SX4 2.0 DDiS SZ5 4WD: Road test review
By Martyn Collins, May 2, 2012 The SX4 is designed to give buyers the practicality and looks of an all-wheel drive SUV in Swift-sized supermini package. The Suzuki’s £17400 price is certainly attractive, but what sets it apart from bigger rivals such …
uk.autoblog.com

2012 Suzuki SX4 Sportback FWD – Autospit
2012 Suzuki SX4 Sportback FWD is equipped with a standard 2.0-liter, I4, 150-horsepower engine that achieves 23-mpg in the city and 32-mpg on the highway. A 6-speed manual transmission with overdrive is standard.
http://www.autospit.com/

2012 Suzuki SX4 Crossover Review | Autos Flow | Autos News
Cars big and small are flooded in the market. Among them we have heard of Suzuki known to be the best car manufacturers globally and so we expect the best from them. They have proudly managed to give satisfying results …
http://www.autosflow.com/

Image Source By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The xB is a five passenger vehicle. It features a 2.4 L/158 hp 4-cylinder engine on both the base and Release Series 9.0 models. It features standard front-wheel drive with no upgrade to AWD. A 5-speed manual transmission is standard and a 4-speed automatic transmission is optional for both models. The xB gets an EPA estimated 22 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. The gas tank holds up to 14 gallons of regular unleaded fuel.

The interior of the new xB is sleek and stylish, though having centrally-mounted primary gages are a distracting hindrance. Both the base and Release Series 9.0 models offer a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, making driving comfortable for taller drivers in combination with the ample leg and headroom. Both models offer air-conditioning, mirrored turn signals, full power accessories and cruise control. The base trim and Release Series 9.0 feature a 12v power outlet, external temperature display, audio and cruise controls on the steering wheel and a trip computer.

Entertainment is where you’ll score big with the xB. It comes standard with a Pioneer brand stereo and speakers that offer 160 watts of output, an AM/FM in-dash CD player with CD MP3 Playback, auxiliary audio input and iPod/iPhone integration, USB connection, an RCA output for additional speakers, a customizable head unit display and speed sensitive volume control.

Options include Sirius XM satellite radio and Sirius satellite receiver with traffic display, a rear seat entertainment system with DVD player, a premium Pioneer audio system with a compact touchscreen faceplate and additional RCA outputs, and Pandora Internet radio connectivity when used with an iPhone. With all these high-tech options, it’s easy to see why the xB is a popular choice for audiophiles.

On the safety front, the xB comes standard with antilock brakes, traction control, child seat anchors, stability control, full-length side curtain airbags and front-seat side airbags. In braking tests, the xB came to a stop from 60 mph in 124 feet, which is a reliable performance. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the xB its highest rating of “Good” in frontal-offset, side-impact and roof strength tests.

Roominess is definitely not an issue with this Scion. With 122.5 cubic feet of interior space, the xB offers greater maximum cargo space than most rivals, not to mention some mid-size SUV’s. It measures 167.3 inches long, 63.4 inches high and 69.3 inches wide. Passenger room is definitely not neglected either, with plenty of space for tall adults to sit in comfort.

The pros of the xB are strong. Besides the aforementioned spaciousness, it offers a highly responsive engine that packs plenty of driving and passing punch. The price tag is also a lot more pleasing than with many other SUV’s. It feels fairly stable when driving at highway speeds. And the fact that there are tons of quality options is a definite plus. On the cons side, it isn’t in line for fuel efficiency with the Nissan Cube or Kia Soul, though it is comparable with other crossovers like the Chevy Equinox. With the centrally mounted gages, while the speedometer is easy to read, it is to the right instead of being in the front. The radio faceplates are not user-friendly. Slab-sided styling leaves the xB vulnerable to crosswinds.

Further Reading:

Scion Aims to Keep Fun, and Gen Y, in the Picture
In fact, according to Toyota’s April US sales press release, Scion posted April sales of 5503 units, up 8.4 percent versus April 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2008 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle recorded April sales of …
www.brandchannel.com

Scion xB and xD to Be Discontinued
Toyota plans to discontinue its iconic Scion xB and the ill-remembered xD, according to Ward’s Auto. Scion Vice President Jack Hollis told Ward’s that the brand didn’t “have plans for a direct xB or xD replacement.” Scion, which debuted in 2003, …
www.chicagotribune.com

Image Source Scion xB By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The CR-V base LX model has an MSRP from $22,495. It features a 2.4L/185hp 4-cylinder engine with 163 foot-pounds of torque. The CR-V has a 5-speed automatic transmission with no manual option. It is front wheel drive with all-wheel drive available in the EX-L model. EPA mileage estimates put the CR-V at 23 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. Fuel tank capacity is 15.3 gallons of regular unleaded fuel. The CR-V comes with a 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.

Nissan’s base S model has an MSRP from $22,070. It features a 2.5L/175hp 4-cylinder engine that has 175 foot-pounds of torque. The Rogue comes standard with a continuously variable-speed automatic transmission with no manual option and is front-wheel drive. All-wheel drive options are available for both the S and the SV models. EPA mileage estimates for the Rogue are 23 MPG city and 28 MPG highway. The fuel tank capacity is 15.9 gallons and it uses regular unleaded fuel. As with the CR-V, it comes with a basic 3 year/36,000 mile warranty.

Both vehicles come with an impressive list of safety features. The CR-V has a 4-wheel ABS, front and rear head airbags, dual front side-mounted airbags, and child seat anchors standard. It is also equipped with emergency brake assist, an engine immobilizer, electronic brakeforce distribution and passenger/driver head restraint whiplash prevention systems. A back-up camera comes standard on all models. In frontal-offset, side impact and roof strength tests, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the CR-V the best possible rating of “Good.”

The Rogue also has a 4-wheel ABS, front and rear head airbags and dual front side-mounted airbags. Unlike the CR-V, it adds a remote anti-theft alarm system and front and rear ventilated disc brakes but does not have a back-up camera. It is also equipped with the electronic brakeforce distribution, passenger/driver head restraint whiplash prevention systems, and an emergency brake assist. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Rogue its highest rating of “Good” for frontal offset and side-impact protection and a second-best “Acceptable” for roof-strength integrity.

Dimensions for the CR-V and Rogue are similar though the Rogue is slightly larger. The CR-V is 178.3 inches long, 64.7 inches high and 71.6 inches wide. The Rogue is 183.3 inches long, 65.3 inches high and 70.9 inches wide. However, for cargo capacity the CR-V strongly outdoes the Rogue. With all seats in place, the CR-V offers 37.2 cubic feet of space and has a maximum capacity of 70.9 cubic feet. The Rogue has 28.9 cubic feet of space with all seats in and has a maximum capacity of 57.9 cubic feet.

Interior entertainment is nearly identical for both vehicles. Both have 4 speakers, AM/FM in-dash single CD player with CD MP3 Playback stereo, speed sensitive volume control and auxiliary audio input and iPod/iPhone integration. The CR-V offers a USB connection the Rogue doesn’t, while the Rogue has a radio data system that the CR-V doesn’t offer. Both come standard with cruise control, front and rear cupholders, and have front and overhead consoles with storage. The CR-V has 12V front and 12V rear power outlets while the Rogue only has a front outlet. Both offer remote power door locks, power mirrors and a 1 one-touch power windows. The CR-V also has remote window operation.

Pros of the CR-V include the large amount of available cargo and passenger space, the high fuel economy and responsive steering. The ride is comfortable and the smooth handling and quiet cabin make it very enjoyable to drive. Cons are there is no optional engine upgrade, acceleration is somewhat sluggish and there is no manual mode transmission. Pros of the Rogue are its solid handling, high-quality interior and comfortable front seats. Sharp styling and nimble steering make even long trips enjoyable. Cons are a shortage on cargo space, there is no optional V6 engine upgrade and there is poor rearward visibility.

Both the CR-V and the Rogue have their high and low points and each has a few different bells & whistles. If space is a high priority for you, the CR-V may be a better choice. If a quiet, super comfortable ride good for long distance travel is what you value most, consider the Rogue.

2012 Honda CRV Video

Nissan Rogue Video

More Reading:

Family-friendly Honda CR-V narrowly outpoints Mazda CX-5 in Consumer Reports …
On paper, the redesigned CR-V and new CX-5 appear very similar. Both can accommodate five passengers, have comparable dimensions, are available with front- or all-wheel drive, and are priced about the same. They also finished very close in CR’s overall …
www.chathamjournal.com

Test drive: 2012 Nissan Rogue
The 2012 Nissan Rogue comes to us this week with one of the most talked about new features in the business, the around view monitor. The innovative system displays active images from four micro cameras on a screen, showing you a bird’s eye view of your …
www.examiner.com

Video review: The 2012 Nissan Rogue still packs a lot of punch for a small …
The 2012 The Nissan Rogue looks a bit like a happy jelly bean with bright eyes and a warm and fuzzy personality. If you are looking for a manly Crossover to tackle the worst of the great outdoors the Rogue, even though the name may suggest otherwise, …
www.tflcar.com

Image Source Honda CRV By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Nissan Rogue By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

Kia Soul

The Kia Soul base model has a 1.6L, 138hp 4-cylinder engine and 123 foot-pounds of torque. It is a front-wheel drive vehicle with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel efficiency is an EPA- estimated 27MPG city and 35 MPG highway. The fuel tank holds up to 12.7 gallons of regular unleaded gasoline. The Kia Soul measures 162.2 inches long, 63.4 inches high and 70.3 inches wide. The cargo capacity is 23.7 cubic feet with all seats in and a maximum capacity of 53.4 cubic feet. It comes with a basic 5 year/60,000 mile warranty and a 10 year/100,000 mile drivetrain warranty.

Despite being an economical crossover, the Kia Soul doesn’t fall short on nice standard features. It is equipped with power locks, power steering, and 1 one-touch power windows. It has a 12V front power outlet, a tilt and telescopic steering wheel and a low fuel level warning gage. The entertainment features include an AM/FM in-dash CD player with CD MP3 Playback, Sirius satellite radio, auxiliary audio input with iPod integration and a USB connection.

Safety measures are also in good supply, with a 4-wheel antilock brake system, dual-front side mounted airbags and front and rear head airbags. Kia’s Soul also has emergency braking assist, child seat anchors, front and rear height adjustable headrests, passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation and tire pressure monitoring. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety awarded the Kia Soul its highest score of “Good” in frontal offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests.

The few cons to the Soul are that the cargo space is more limited than in other crossovers, and the handling could be improved. The ride is somewhat noisier and busier than in some of Kia’s counterparts. The list of pros far outweighs these few minuses, though, with the mix of user-friendly controls, top mark safety test scores, refreshing style and ample standard features. Top it off with the low price tag and you have a crossover whose fuel economy and practicality and hard to beat.

Nissan Cube

The Nissan Cube’s 1.8 base model has a 1.8L, 122hp 4-cylinder engine with 127 foot-pounds of torque. It is a front-wheel drive vehicle with a 6-speed manual transmission. Fuel efficiency is an EPA- estimated 25 MPG city and 30 MPG highway. The fuel tank holds up to 13.2 gallons of regular unleaded gasoline. The Cube measures 156.7 inches long, 65 inches high and 66.7 inches wide. The cargo capacity is 11.4 cubic feet with all seats in and has a maximum capacity of 58.1 cubic feet. It comes with a basic 3 year/36,000 mile warranty and a 5 year/60,000 mile drivetrain warranty.

Standard comfort features include air conditioning, air filtration, dual vanity mirrors and a trip computer. The Cube sadly has very limited standard entertainment features that consist of an AM/FM in-dash single CD player stereo and an auxiliary MP3 audio input. Convenience offerings are front and rear cupholders and door pockets, a 12V front power outlet, and a tilt-adjustable steering wheel.

For safety, the Cube has a 4-wheel antilock brake system, dual-front side mounted airbags and a remote anti-theft alarm system. It also has emergency braking assist, an engine immobilizer, front and rear height adjustable headrests, driver and passenger head restraint whiplash protection systems and tire pressure monitoring. In frontal offset, side-impact and roof-strength tests conducted by The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, the Cube was awarded its highest score of “Good.”

Pros are plentiful for the Cube. It has an extremely smooth ride and offers lots of passenger space, it is very easy to park, the exterior is exceedingly stylish and the rear seats slide fore and aft. There are several cons, including high noise levels and mediocre handling, which make it less than ideal for long trips. There is also quite a bit less cargo space than in other similarly-sized crossovers. Still, the comfortable ride, good fuel economy and value pricing leave the Nissan Soul as a worthy crossover pick.

Further Reading:

USAA Names 2012 Best Value Vehicles
Nissan Cube 7. Honda Civic 3. Honda Fit 8. Hyundai Elantra 4. Scion xD 9. Honda CR-Z 5. Scion xB 10. Kia Forte Fix notes that “as a parent, I know how challenging it can be to feel confident about the car your teen drives, especially if it’s a much …
www.marketwatch.com

I do love the Nissan cube | Flickr – Photo Sharing!
I do love the Nissan cube. … This photo belongs to. Jam Master Jordan’s photostream (2053). Newest photo →; I do love the Nissan cube · Infinity x 3 · Tower of nasty. Additional info. Uploaded using Flickr for the iPhone and …
http://www.flickr.com/photos/aerokc/

NADAguides Highlights Top Ten Most Versatile New Cars Under $20000
… trim levels: the Kia Rio SX Five Door, Kia Forte SX, Jeep Patriot 4WD Sport, Subaru Impreza Wagon 2.0i Premium, Ford Fiesta SEL, Ford Focus SE, Nissan Versa Hatchback 1.8 SL, Elantra Touring SE, Kia Soul Auto + and the Chevrolet Sonic LTZ 1LZ.
www.marketwatch.com

2012 Kia Soul
Even though the Kia Soul isn’t the best-driving Kia, it was the first glimpse at what the brand was capable of. It’s true, Peter Schreyer arrived at Kia so late into the Soul’s development process that he could only influence the design of the grille, …
www.automobilemag.com

Image Source Kia Soul By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Nissan Cube By M 93 (own photo) [Attribution], via Wikimedia Commons

GMC Acadia

The Acadia is GMC’s answer to the Chevy Traverse and Buick Enclave. Unlike these crossovers, however, the Acadia offers both a smooth ride and plenty of room: it can comfortably fit up to eight adult passengers. It is available in five models: SL, SLE, SLT-1, SLT-2, and the Denali. All five feature a 3.6L, 288hp V6 engine, making hauling kids and cargo and passing other vehicles a breeze. The transmission is a 6-speed shiftable. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional for every model. Fuel efficiency is 17 MPG city and 24 MPG highway for all five trims. Cargo capacity with all the seats in place is 24.1 cubic feet and maximum cargo capacity is 116.9 cubic feet.

GMC’s best achievement with the Acadia is the space. It can seat up to eight passengers, adult or child, in a great deal of comfort. The ample cargo space makes it a better pick than most other comparable SUV’s. The Acadia comes standard with privacy glass, keyless entry, OnStar emergency telematics, satellite radio and an audio jack.

Upgrading to the Denali gives you a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, a 10-speaker Bose sound system that has a USB/ iPod interface, and an option for a touch-screen navigation system. The Acadia also comes with a basic 3 year/36,000 mile warranty. Safety need not be a concern with this SUV: the Acadia earned a five-star rating for overall performance, and a rating of “good,” the highest possible, in tests for frontal-offset and side-impact crashes.

While GMC certainly doesn’t skimp on the finishing touches with the Acadia, there are a few drawbacks to this excellent crossover vehicle. The sheer size of the Acadia makes maneuvering difficult, and the chrome trim can reflect sunlight into the driver’s eyes. The audio and climate control buttons are small and not distinctive. Outward rear visibility can be compromised more than in its competitors. Still, the Acadia is a solid, safe SUV with good gas mileage for the size.

GMC Terrain

Like the Acadia, GMC’s Terrain boasts strong crash test scores and a roomy back seat. It is available in four models: the SL-E1, SL-E2, SLT-1, and SLT-2. Each offers a 2.4L, 182hp 4-cylinder engine. The Terrain has a 6-speed shiftable automatic front wheel drive with an optional all-wheel drive. Fuel efficiency offers 22MPG city and 32 MPG highway for front-wheel drive and 20 MPG city and 29 MPG highway for all-wheel drive. Cargo capacity with all seats in place gives you 31.6 cubic feet, while the maximum capacity is 63.9 cubic feet.

The 2012 Terrain comes with OnStar, antilock brakes, front seat side-impact airbags and a rearview camera. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety gave the Terrain a rating of “good,” the highest possible rating, in its tests for frontal-offset, side and roof strength. Standard features include auxiliary audio input and iPod integration, Bluetooth wireless data link, cruise control, cargo area light, and multiple storage pockets and cupholders. The SLT-2 adds 12V power outlets, a subwoofer and eight Pioneer premium speakers.

Pros of the Terrain are that the interior is sleek and well-designed, and the rear seat slides and reclines. It offers good fuel economy, front and back seat comfort, and a quiet interior. Cons include the amount of cargo space: it is nearly 9 cubic feet less than what competitors like the Honda Cr-V or Toyota RAV4 offer. Visibility is compromised and handing is not very agile. But if you’re looking for a smaller, refined SUV with loads of features and an excellent safety rating, the Terrain is an excellent choice.

Further Reading:

Lucky ’13: Lots of Changes in Store for 2013 Crop of SUVs
Debuting at the 2012 Chicago Auto Show was the 2013 GMC Acadia, with a new, buff-looking front grille, representing a major departure from the subdued styling of its predecessor. Rounding out the changes for the Lambda triplets were a refreshed 2013 …
www.trucktrend.com

2012 GMC Acadia – 3-row affordable midsize SUV for families cars …
2012 GMC Acadia has many standard features, carlike handling and ride, comfortable cabin interior for up to eight passengers in three-rows with adult-friendly third-row seat, huge cargo space, and one near-luxury model.
http://carsinterior.blog.fc2.com/

2013 GMC Terrain Denali Walkthrough – 2012 New York Auto Show
Read More Last month GMC announced the Denali trim level would be coming to the 2013 Terrain along with a new 3.6-liter V-6. Last week at the 2012 New York Auto Show, we took a look at the 2013 GMC Terrain Denali to see what the Denali trim gives you.
www.thecarconnection.com

Fuel economy: 17 city/24 hwy mpg
A better V6 engine option and premium style make the 2013 GMC Terrain a top choice for those shopping for compact crossovers. Quiet, attractive cabin; sophisticated ride; roomy backseat, more powerful V6 option. Slow four-cylinder model; …
www.edmunds.com

Image Source GMC Acadia By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source GMC Terrain By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

2012 Honda Crosstour

Honda’s Crosstour, CR-V, and Pilot all offer the latest in technology both to protect and entertain, with special attention to safety features and spaciousness. Add fuel economy and good gas mileage to the mix and it’s easy to see why Honda’s crossovers are such a success.

The Honda Crosstour is based off of Honda’s Accord sedan, but as an SUV it offers more utility and is more versatile. The EX features a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine with 192hp, and the EX-L has a 3.5L V-6 engine with 192hp. Both models get up to 18 MPG city and 27 MPG highway and have 5-speed automatic transmission.

Each has front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive. Safety features include front/rear head airbags, driver/passenger whiplash head restraint, 4-wheel ABS and rear door child safety locks. Entertainment features include Bluetooth, MP3 player, and USB connection. The EX-L also has XM satellite radio with 3 months service.

Both models offer spacious seating, with plenty of head and leg room in both the front and back. The seats are comfortable and supportive. The cabin is quieter than even that in the Accord, and steering is smooth and accurate. On the minus side with the Crosstour, the cargo capacity is smaller than in counterparts such as the Chevy Equinox or Honda’s own CR-V.

The center stack is nearly overwhelmed with buttons, though the multipurpose control knob helps to simplify operation. Though the transmission is slow to downshift when passing other vehicles, the Crosstour gives a stellar performance on the highway and provides a smooth, quiet ride at speed.

2012 Honda CRV

The Honda CR-V is no stranger to the streets, or to critical acclaim. It is currently America’s best-selling crossover vehicle, and for good reason. The CR-V features plenty of room for both passengers and cargo and is one of the smoothest crossover rides around. It is available in three models: the LX, the EX, and the EX-L.

All models have a 2.4L, 185 hp 4-cylinder engine and feature a 5-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy ranges from up to 23 MPG city and 31 MPG highway. Each comes standard with an impressive array of features including full power accessories, cruise control, rearview camera, automatic headlights, Bluetooth phone and iPod/USB interfaces.

The CR-V’s Vehicle Stability Assist™ with Motion-Adaptive EPS can decrease the engine power if there is an oversteering or understeering situation, while the Tire Pressure Monitoring System alerts you if the pressure in any of the tires becomes too low.

The 2012 CR-V earned a 5-star score from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration, making it as safe as it is spacious. A few cons about the CR-v are that it is louder than many other SUV’s, the transmission is 5-speed and not 6-speed with no manual option, and the rear seats cannot slide back and forth.

2012 Honda Pilot

The Honda Pilot went through a lot of changes for the 2012 edition and most of them were for the better. The exterior received a facelift, and the fuel economy and standard features were upgraded. The result is a roomy SUV with noteworthy fuel economy that’s a pleasure to ride. Available in LX, EX, EX-L and Touring models, all four boast a 3.5L, V-6 engine with 250 hp.

Mileage is an impressive up to 18 MPG city and 25 MPG highway. Standard safety features include third row, front and rear head airbags, emergency braking assist, engine immobilizer and traction/stability control. Convenience and entertainment features include cruise control, front and overhead console storage, and both front and rear reading lights and air conditioning.

The biggest pros of the Pilot are improved breaking distance, increased fuel economy, the specious third row, and the smooth, quiet ride. All these improvements have made the Pilot a worthy contender in the compact-SUV market. Cons of the Pilot are that it feels cumbersome to drive, has sluggish acceleration, and some of the interior is made of cheaper materials than its counterparts the Dodge Durango and Mazda CX-9.

Further Reading:

Honda to Debut 2013 Honda Crosstour Concept at
honda cars|honda civic hybrid|honda dealerships|honda suv|honda accessories|honda dealer|honda finance|honda crv reviews|used honda|honda dealership|honda pilot reviews|honda crossover|honda lease|honda oem …
http://frommemoriestobooks.blogspot.com/

2013 Honda Crosstour: It’s Still Ugly | The Truth About Cars
Put a V6 in the CR-V and call it a day already. …. Plus, it’s a Honda, which suggests lower long-term maintenance costs; has Honda ever had a disaster like the long-wheelbase 7 series, for maintenance nightmares?) …. I have a Crosstour. Been leasing it since last summer because I needed more room than what my Civic sedan had, one child and another on the way, and hate the Pilot and the last-gen CR-V. Plus I have a relative that works at the local Honda dealer, …
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/

Family-friendly Honda CR-V narrowly outpoints Mazda CX-5 in Consumer Reports …
On paper, the redesigned CR-V and new CX-5 appear very similar. Both can accommodate five passengers, have comparable dimensions, are available with front- or all-wheel drive, and are priced about the same. They also finished very close in CR’s overall …
www.chathamjournal.com

Restyled Honda CR-V remains solid choice
The EPA rates the Honda at 22 mpg city and 30 highway. Ride is generally good, although like most small SUVs it can get a little choppy on rough streets. Highway and suburban driving is well controlled and comfortable. The CR-V rides on a 103.1-inch …
www.jsonline.com

Driver’s Seat: Testing the Honda Pilot
Reality: I’ve tried most of the other choices and found this among the best. A nice surprise: Maybe I’m too hard on Honda. Maybe it’s their great reputation that makes my inner Mr. Driver’s Seat say “Oh, yeah, you think you’re so special?
www.philly.com

Image Source Honda Crosstour By Tabercil (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (www.creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Honda CR-V By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons
Image Source Honda Pilot By IFCAR (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

The Tucson is a five passenger vehicle with a 2.0 liter/165 hp engine on the GL model, and a 2.4 liter/176 hp engine on the GLS and Limited Models. It features standard front-wheel drive with optional all-wheel drive for the GLS and Limited models.

A 5-speed manual transmission is standard in the GL and an automatic transmission is optional for the GLS and Limited trims. The Tucson gets an estimated 21-23 MPG city and 28-32 MPG highway depending on the trim. The gas tank for all trims increased from 14.5 to 15.3 gallons compared to the 2011 model.

The Tucson is designed to improve fuel economy in several ways. Low-rolling-resistance tires and an Overdrive Lock-up Torque Converter give you more efficient highway cruising, which means better mileage. The Active Eco System modifies both transmission and engine control that results in a more than seven percent real-world fuel improvement. Manual transmission Tucsons have an Eco Gear Shift Indicator that automatically detects the optimal time for changing gears, which maximizes fuel economy by minimizing over-revving of the engine.

The interior of the new Tucson is sleek and stylish, and all of the controls and gages are easy to operate and well-placed. The GLS and Limited models offer a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, making driving comfortable for a wide range of driver sizes. All three trims offer air-conditioning, a height-adjustable driver’s seat, full power accessories and a trip computer.

The GLS trim features heated side mirrors with turn signals built in, Bluetooth, cruise control, steering wheel audio control and combination cloth and leather upholstery. The Limited trim offers automatic headlights, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats and a six-way power driver seat and leather upholstery.

Hyundai’s new crossover SUV offers excellent standard safety features. The Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control System work together to maintain traction and prevent skids even during difficult driving conditions. Active head restraints help protect against whiplash. There are six airbags and the side airbags have rollover sensors.

The Tucson also has Hillstart Assist Control as a standard feature, something only offered as an upgrade by some of Hyundai’s competitors. This safety feature minimizes backward roll if the Tucson is stopped on a steep hill and the Downhill Brake Control assists you in maintaining control of the vehicle while traveling down a steep hill.

The interior is the one area where the Tucson is the most lacking. Compared to its counterparts the Chevy Equinox and Honda CR-V, the Tucson has less backseat room and the backseats do not recline or slide. Cargo space is also significantly smaller in the Tucson in comparison, with 25.7 cubic feet behind the back seats and 55.8 when the backseats are folded down. This is nearly 15 cubic feet less than in the Honda CR-V and the Subaru Forester.

Overall, the new Tucson is a reliable, safety-conscious, fuel efficient vehicle. While it is lacking in interior space compared to other crossover vehicles, if space is not a vital consideration for you, Hyundai’s Tucson is an excellent, affordable choice.

Further Reading:

2011 Hyundai Tucson – Slick SUV
By Veeno Dewan The new Hyundai Tucson offers excellent styling, decent engineering and a lot of features for the money. The look is sleek, aerodynamic and clutter free. Everything looks feels and fits like an SUV costing many thousands of dollars more.
www.voiceonline.com

Hyundai Tucson 2013 performance review | Managed Speed
Hyundai Tucson 2012 gets some modifications mostly targeted at enhancing fuel consumption, and lately hyundai improve its fuel usage.
http://www.managedspeed.net/

Image Source By U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (safercar.gov) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons