Bentley Continental GT3 Concept Racer

2012 Paris Auto Show

Just the Facts:

• Bentley dropped a major bombshell on the eve of the 2012 Paris Auto Show, taking the wraps off the Bentley Continental GT3 Concept Racer and announcing that it intends to return to the racetrack for the first time since 2003.
• Bentley said the GT3 racer is being developed by a dedicated motorsport team at the company's factory in Crewe, England.
• Bentley is taking a page from Porsche's playbook, which uses racing not only for marketing benefits, but as an internal motivator that can often change the way people work inside of an automaker.
• PARIS — Bentley dropped a major bombshell on the eve of the 2012 Paris Auto Show, taking the wraps off the Bentley Continental GT3 Concept Racer and announcing that it intends to return to the racetrack for the first time since 2003.
  Bentley said the GT3 racer is spun off the new GT Speed and is being developed by a dedicated motorsports team at the company's factory in Crewe, England. The automaker plans a return to racing by the end of 2013 with a GT racecar.
  Bentley is taking a page from Porsche's playbook, which uses racing not only for marketing benefits, but as an internal motivator that can often change the way people work inside of an automaker.
  "The clear message from our customers is that Bentley belongs on the racetrack, and the Continental GT3 is the realization of a dream we've had ever since the launch of the Continental GT," said Wolfgang Schreiber, Bentley CEO, in a statement. "The new GT Speed is the perfect car for us to develop into a racer, and our work so far has shown huge potential."
  While not spelling out specific events, Bentley said the new racer will be eligible to compete in a range of race series and events, "up to and including 24-hour marathons."
  Presumably, the Bentley racer would compete at such venues as the 24 Hours of Nürburgring, a touring car and GT endurance-racing event on the Nordschleife, or north loop of the Nürburgring.
  With the announcement of a GT racecar, Bentley appears to have stopped short of developing a new prototype racer — a more exotic vehicle that would not have street roots.
  During the 1920s, Bentley was a powerhouse in racing, setting new speed records. Bentley first won Le Mans in 1924 and from 1927-'30 won the prestigious race each year. In 2003, 73 years since Bentley's last Le Mans win, two Bentley Speed 8s entered the epic 24-hour endurance race. They came in 1st and 2nd. But Bentley hasn't been involved in motorsports since then.
  "Development of the Continental GT3 will continue over the coming months in the build-up to the start of a test program in 2013," Bentley said.
  Edmunds says: This is not "everyman" racing. Expect Bentley's return to the track to be old school in some ways, with gentlemen racing their expensive cars. It's definitely going to add more spice to the brand, especially if Bentley gets a win in a big race.

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2013 Cadillac XTS -New Car Review

2013 XTS LUXURY SEDAN

From the innovative CUE⁷ driver interface, which leaps two generations ahead, to its groundbreaking safety technology, the all-new Cadillac XTS is a bold look at what the future holds. Its provocative profile pulls you in, while our revolutionary dual-mode Magnetic Ride Control and 304 HP underfoot provide immediate exhilaration. Stunningly modern, yet meticulously crafted. Powerful, yet efficient². Tautly proportioned, yet spacious. Explore the XTS and discover a car that not only moves you, but accelerates you well into tomorrow.

THE FUTURE IS HERE, AND IT’S EFFORTLESS.

Speak, and let Natural Voice Recognition help you place a phone call. Spread your fingers to zoom into a map³. Swipe to breeze through music. The simplicity of a tablet has come to your car.

DEVICE SYNCHRONIZATION

With CUE⁷, the Cadillac User Experience, you’re connected to a world of content. Pair up to ten Bluetooth^®-enabled smartphones and effortlessly access all your contacts and wirelessly stream music. Then, place a call or select a song on command with CUE’s Natural Voice Recognition.

ADAPTIVE FORWARD LIGHTING

To help light the way at night, the XTS is available with Adaptive Forward Lighting. Employing sensors to determine the car’s speed and steering, the headlamps swivel to cast light precisely into your path of travel.

AIRBAGS

With ten standard airbags⁵, the all-new XTS is as defensive as it is dynamic. It even includes the added protection of progressive driver and front-passenger knee airbags. Not because it’s required, but because it’s a Cadillac.

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Ford Taurus Review

Scorecard

Overall:	8.8
Performance:	8.0
Exterior:	8.1
Interior:	9.2
Safety:	9.4
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Awards

• 2012 Best Affordable Large Car for the Money
• 2012 Best Full-Size Car for Families

Pros and Cons

• Stylish design
• Excellent cabin electronics
• Affordable price within the class
• Balanced ride

• Higher trim levels are expensive

Best Price Program

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• 2011 Ford Taurus
• 2010 Ford Taurus
• 2009 Ford Taurus
• 2008 Ford Taurus

Search Dealer InventorySpecial OffersBuild & PriceRequest a QuoteThe 2012 Ford Taurus ranks 1 out of 7 Affordable Large Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Taurus, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.Among the many reasons why critics love the 2012 Ford Taurus are its good performance, stylish design and excellent cabin electronics.

The Ford Taurus gave the class of affordable large cars a much-needed shot of adrenaline when it was introduced in 2010. Along with recently updated rivals such as the Buick LaCrosse and Chrysler 300, the Taurus continues to stand out for its comfortable and spacious cabin, excellent interior tech, balanced ride and low base price: just a few of the reasons why we named it the 2012 Best Affordable Large Car for the Money.

But the Ford Taurus isn't just a great value. Its strong crash test ratings and Ford’s MyKey system – which lets parents set speed limits to help keep new drivers safe – make the Taurus a strong choice for families who have kids in car seats as well as teens. Thanks to these safety features, we named the Ford Taurus the 2012 Best Full-Size Car for Families.

For 2012, the Taurus continues to earn the respect of auto critics. “Ford's Taurus has a lot going for it,” writes Consumer Guide. “This large sedan is smooth, quiet, refined, and is surprisingly engaging to drive.” Additionally, a number of standout optional features build on the Taurus’ base trim. These include available all-wheel drive and Ford’s widely-praised Sync infotainment system.

With its sharp styling and easy-to drive nature, it’s easy to see why the automotive press loves the 2012 Ford Taurus.

Other Cars to Consider

While reviewers say that there’s a lot to like about the 2012 Ford Taurus, shoppers who’ve got a little bit more money to spend may also want to check out the Toyota Avalon. Although the Avalon is significantly pricier than the Taurus, many reviewers note that its cabin is just as roomy. Additionally, the Avalon’s above-average fuel economy, excellent reliability ratings and good resale value make it a top choice among affordable large cars.

However, if neither the Avalon nor the Taurus floats your boat, don’t overlook the Buick LaCrosse. While the LaCrosse also has a higher base price than the Taurus, it’s not nearly as expensive as the Avalon. Plus, it now features standard USB and Bluetooth connectivity and comes with the choice of two distinct drivetrains: the fuel-sipping eAssist or the more-powerful V6. While the LaCrosse has slightly less passenger space than the Taurus, car reviewers say it’s an excellent value thanks to its quiet, luxurious interior and longer warranty.

Ford Taurus: The Details 

The 2012 Ford Taurus is available in SE, more upscale SEL, near-luxury Limited and high-performance SHO trims. The Ford Taurus SHO is reviewed separately. Changes for the 2012 model year are minimal, including the addition of standard integrated blind spot mirrors and one new exterior color.

If you’re ready to buy a Taurus, check out this month's Best Ford Deals, where you’ll find Ford’s best discounts and incentives.

• "With its roomy, comfortable interior and large trunk, the 2011 Ford Taurus is an appealing reinvention of the classic full-size American sedan." -- Edmunds 
• "The Taurus delivers a good balance of comfort and responsive handling, but buyers who favor comfort above all might prefer something like the softly sprung Toyota Avalon." -- Kelley Blue Book 
• "A thoroughly refined large family sedan embodying the latest in contemporary safety technology. Attractive inside and out. Roomy. Solid. Quiet. Exemplary fit and finish." -- Car and Driver
• "From an engineering and design standpoint, the Taurus is a success. It is stylish, contemporary, and functional." -- Fortune
• "The new Taurus may not ignite the marrow in our enthusiast bones, but make no mistake - it is a very, very good car, and we can see its considerable attributes fitting the bill for a wide swath of consumers." -- Autoblog

U.S. News Scores

Taurus Performance: 8.0 (Very Good)

The 2012 Ford Taurus is a competent performer. While it’s no sports sedan, most reviewers say it offers a smooth driving experience with excellent acceleration and comfortable handling. Read More»

Taurus Exterior: 8.1 (Very Good)

The 2012 Ford Taurus stands out as an affordable large car with an athletic stance. Most reviewers love its long, low lines and sharply creased sheet metal. View Photos»

Taurus Interior: 9.2 (Excellent)

Reviewers only see one problem with the cabin of the 2012 Ford Taurus: they think it may be a little too nice. While that’s great news for Taurus shoppers, some reviewers wonder if the Taurus will steal sales from its luxury-oriented cousin, the Lincoln MKS. Read More»

Taurus Safety: 9.4 (Excellent)

The 2012 Ford Taurus earned four out of five stars overall in federal government crash tests. Additionally, the 2012 Taurus earned top scores from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Read More»

Taurus Reliability: 4.5 of 5

The 2012 Ford Taurus reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 Ford Taurus comes with a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty. Read More»

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Buick Regal Review

Scorecard

Overall:	8.7
Performance:	8.7
Exterior:	9.0
Interior:	8.5
Safety:	9.4
Reliability:

Awards

• 2012 Best Upscale Midsize Car for the Money
• 2012 Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families

Pros and Cons

• Low price with premium features
• Balanced handling
• Comfortable interior

• Light steering in base model

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See what others paid and get a great deal on the Buick Regal. Learn More »

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Research Other Years

• 2011 Buick Regal

The 2012 Buick Regal ranks 3 out of 19 Upscale Midsize Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 34 published reviews and test drives of the Buick Regal, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Buick Regal offers performance and comfort at a price that’s less than many competing upscale midsize cars.

Buick refuses to rest on its laurels with the 2012 Regal. Buick introduced two new models into the Regal family for 2012, as well as a revised touch-screen infotainment system that should impress Regal shoppers.

The Buick Regal is the 2012 U.S. News Best Upscale Midsize Car for the Money. It won this award for its low long-term ownership costs and high praise from auto reviewers, as well as its nimble handling and comfortable interior. All of these attributes make it a good value in its segment. The Regal is also the 2012 U.S. News Best Upscale Midsize Car for Families. This is an award it won for its good safety scores, roomy interior and high-quality cabin.

The 2012 model year sees the introduction of the Regal eAssist, a mild-hybrid version of the Regal with impressive fuel economy. So far, though, the big news among test drivers has been the introduction of the Regal GS, which is even more powerful than the Buick Regal Turbo.

Still, some reviewers say that while the base Buick Regal offers great performance at a reasonable price, the Regal GS is up against better-known rivals in an intensely competitive class. “With the Regal GS, Buick is serving up a gourmet helping of nouvelle refinement and performance,” writes Motor Trend. “But the big-name chefs down the street at Acura and Audi are selling their established crowd-pleasers (TSX V-6 and A4 Quattro) for the same price." 

Fortunately for buyers on a budget, most critics assert that even the base model handles like a European luxury sedan. Reviewers say that even though the Buick brand may not be strong enough to pull brand loyalists of more expensive automakers in, overlooking the Regal would be a mistake.

Other Cars to Consider

The 2012 Buick Regal is more expensive than most base-model affordable midsize cars, but less than other upscale midsize cars. If you’re shopping for value, compare the Regal with other affordable midsize cars like the Hyundai Sonata. Like the Regal, the Sonata comes with standard interior tech features that are often optional on competing models, but it’s also considerably less expensive than the Buick and gets better fuel economy.

If you’ve got a little more money to spend, and like the Regal’s composed handling and comfortable interior, consider rivals like the Audi A4. The A4 may be pricier than the Regal, but it also offers good fuel economy and optional all-wheel drive, as well as German luxury car cachet. However, the A4 also doesn’t come with as many standard features, which means that if you want to match the Regal’s list of standard equipment, you’ll have to add a longer list of options into your budget.

Buick Regal: The Details

For 2012, the Buick Regal is available in four distinct trims that are based primarily around the engine. Base models feature a four-cylinder engine, while the Regal eAssist adds a small electric motor to improve fuel economy. For buyers seeking more performance, Buick offers the Regal Turbo and the top-of-the-line Regal GS, which both feature a turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

GS and eAssist models are new for 2012, and Buick will be adding its IntelliLink touch-screen infotainment system as standard equipment at some point during the 2012 model year. If you like the Regal, but also want the latest tech features, you might want to wait for this feature.

For a full list of standard and optional features, see the 2012 Buick Regal specs.

• "The Buick Regal is an entirely reasonable proposition. People and stuff fit in it. It's decent looking, priced fairly and has the requisite balance of power and fuel economy for a medium-size sedan with premium aspirations." --AutoWeek 
• "The Regal boasts nimble, athletic road manners while maintaining the generally upscale aura expected of the brand." -- Consumer Guide 
• "Check every box and you'll end up just under $39,000. That's pushing awfully close to the $40K mark, but keep in mind, an Acura TSX V6 with the tech package will run you about $39K, as well. We'll take the Buick, thanks. (Isn't it nice to be able to say that again?)" -- Autoblog (Regal GS)
• "What it is, it turns out, is a very well tuned, near-luxury sport sedan that, in terms of sheer driving pleasure, surpasses anything else in its class made in Detroit these days, not to mention imports like the Acura TSX and the Lexus ES350." -- Automobile Magazine
• "So let's see what we have here; A gorgeous, fun-to-drive, quick, comfortable, well-equipped American sedan built with the quality of its German competitors... and it's a Buick. Who knew?" -- Jalopnik

U.S. News Scores

Regal Performance: 8.7 (Very Good)

Test drivers applaud the 2012 Buick Regal for its composed handling and numerous engine options. Read More»

Regal Exterior: 9.0 (Excellent)

Reviewers think that the 2012 Buick Regal is a stylish sedan whose looks easily keep pace with the competition. “Truth be told, we're smitten with the way this thing looks,” writes Autoblog. “It's bulgy, brash and uses an interesting blend of curving lines to create an aura of sharpness.” View Photos»

Regal Interior: 8.5 (Very Good)

Cars.com says that the 2012 Buick Regal’s “five-seat cabin utilizes premium materials,” and in general, most auto writers agree. The Regal’s cabin includes comfortable seats, high-quality materials, Zen-like quietness and a long list of standard features. Read More»

Regal Safety: 9.4 (Excellent)

The federal government gives the 2012 Buick Regal good safety scores, and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety names it a 2012 Top Safety Pick. Read More»

Regal Reliability: 3.5 of 5

The 2012 Buick Regal reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. The 2012 Buick Regal is covered by a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty and a five-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Read More»

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Ford Fiesta Review

The 2012 Ford Fiesta ranks 2 out of 41 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 27 published reviews and test drives of the Ford Fiesta, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Ford Fiesta is a well-rounded small car that offers good driving dynamics, a comfortable interior and competitive interior tech for the class.

The Ford Fiesta hit the market in 2010, and for 2012, reviewers are still impressed with the 2012 Fiesta’s nearly perfect package. They say thisaffordable small car offers cute looks, fun color options, a quality interior, fun driving dynamics, upscale tech and good fuel economy ratings for the class.

That said, there are a few caveats consumers should know. In advertisements, Ford says the Fiesta gets 29/40 mpg city/highway. That’s with the Fiesta’s Super Fuel Economy package that’s optional on SE trims and higher, which means you pay more for good mileage. And, even though the Fiesta is available as a hatchback, it is not the most utilitarian five-door in the class. That honor is reserved for the Honda Fit, which has a standard Magic Seat and up to 57.3 cubic feet of cargo space. 

But that doesn’t stop the Fiesta sedan and hatchback from being the Best Subcompact Car and Hatchback for the Money thanks to their stylish looks, available tech and fun performance.

Other Cars to Consider

There are two new affordable small cars that are challenging the Ford Fiesta: the Kia Rio and Hyundai Accent. Previously, the automotive press condemned these models for their bad performance, cheap interiors and few standard safety features. For 2012, both of these models are redesigned and the automotive press is raving about their 138-horsepower engines and attractive exteriors. What’s more, both of these models top the base Fiesta’s fuel economy ratings and get 29/40 mpg city/highway.

If practicality is your main concern, you should check out the Honda Fit. Some reviewers say it isn't as much fun as the Fiesta, but it does a lot of things the Fiesta can’t thanks to its standard Magic Seat. The Magic Seat has four modes (people, utility, long and tall), which means you can fit five adults comfortably, pack 57.3 cubic feet worth of stuff, tote a surf board or haul a tall plant. The Fit does trail the Fiesta in terms of fuel economy, but if practicality is your primary concern, the Honda Fit tops the Fiesta.

Details: Ford Fiesta

The Ford Fiesta sedan and five-door hatchback come in four trims: the base S, SE, SEL and SES. The base S is available only as a sedan, and the sedan is not available in the SES trim. The hatch isn't available in the SEL, though the two trims are nearly identical in terms of features and options.

The Ford Fiesta is in its second year of production, and there are few changes to the model. In response to critiques from the automotive press, Ford has added a center arm rest and blind spot sideview mirrors. The automaker has also added new interior style packages.

• "The Fiesta is a substantial, grown-up car. If Ford can keep pricing for the U.S. model, due here next spring, within range of the spunkier but less well-mannered Honda Fit, it will have a rare commodity: a car suited to both Facebook and the real world." -- Automobile Magazine
• “Fiesta doesn't have near the passenger room and cargo versatility of most competitors, but counters with the availability of several unexpected class features, such as heated seats and leather upholstery. If practicality is secondary to style and substance in your book, then Fiesta should be on your shopping list." -- Consumer Guide
• "Ford would be happy with best in class. And we think that's where the Fiesta may very well rank when it reaches the United States." -- Car and Driver
• "Against more familiar models--the Chevrolet Aveo, the Honda Fit and the Toyota Yaris--the Fiesta rises above this competition and every other segment." -- AutoWeek
• "Want a small, cheap, fun-to-drive, economical, practical car? Right now there's not many choices at all and none if you want to buy American. The Ford Fiesta will change that." -- Jalopnik
• "The Fiesta marks Ford's attempt to market the same basic car here that is sold in Europe at higher prices, by standardizing the basics and making optional some upscale features, including heated leather seats, automatic climate control, heated side mirrors, keyless entry and push-button engine start. Some of these features have never been seen in this price class." -- Cars.com

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Volkswagen GTI Review

The 2012 Volkswagen GTI ranks 1 out of 9 Upscale Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 25 published reviews and test drives of the Volkswagen GTI, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Volkswagen GTI isn’t the fastest or most nimble upscale small car, but reviewers think the GTI is a great value because it offers a little bit of everything at an affordable price.

The automotive press likes the spunk of the Volkswagen Golf, but thinks that the Volkswagen GTI, the performance-tuned version of the Golf, goes above and beyond the call of duty with its ample power and precise handling. Unfortunately, the GTI’s performance isn’t so perfect when compared with its classmates. The 2012 Volkswagen GTI falls short simply because it isn’t as powerful or refined as what reviewers expect from a German vehicle. It makes significantly less horsepower compared with the BMW 1-Series, and reviewers don’t think the GTI is as nimble as it could be.

But there is one thing the 2012 Volkswagen GTI is good at, and that’s packing a lot of value into a small package, which is why we named the GTI the Best Upscale Small Car for the Money. Test drivers think the GTI’s cabin materials are exceptional, and are even more impressed that most adults will be able to sit comfortably in the front and back seats. Add good fuel economy for the class, and a low base price compared with the pricey Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series, and the VW GTI offers the ideal balance of price, practicality and fun-to-drive character that make the GTI an ideal choice for shoppers looking for a car that does a lot of things well.

Other Cars to Consider

If you love to drive, test the BMW 1-Series. This coupe costs significantly more than the GTI, has lower fuel economy ratings and a tight second row, but if a powerful engine, smooth transmission, precise cornering and confident braking are important to you, you won’t feel like you’re wasting money.

While test drivers say the GTI has a good balance of practicality and performance, the Audi A3 boasts the same. Though its back seat is cramped for adults, the A3 has a lot more cargo space, and is even available with a turbocharged diesel engine, which meshes both good fuel economy and excellent performance, making the A3 even more practical. If you’re interested in the A3, keep in mind that it is more expensive than the GTI.

The Details: Volkswagen GTI

The 2012 VW GTI is available in two- and four-door models. Both models are available with the convenience and sunroof, sunroof and navigation and Autobahn packages. See the full list of 2012 Volkswagen GTI specs.

• “As far as hot hatches are concerned, none of the competition offers the same mix of refinement sophistication and driving good times that the GTI does.” -- Autoblog
• "The 2012 Volkswagen GTI might not make top performance numbers, but overall, it's one of our top picks for a sporty hatchback." -- Edmunds
• "GTI is a great choice that offers near premium-compact build quality and serious driving-enthusiast appeal. The 2.0T engine is plenty powerful. We're not enamored with the automated-manual transmission. Base prices are reasonable but quickly skyrocket as features are added. Still, even with somewhat lofty prices, you get what you pay for." -- Consumer Guide

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Chevrolet Cruze Review

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze ranks 6 out of 41 Affordable Small Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 44 published reviews and test drives of the Chevrolet Cruze, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.

The 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is praised by automotive journalists for its great fuel economy, roomy cabin and upscale feel for the price. That's why the Cruze is our Best Compact Car for the Money.

For 2012, Chevrolet adds a few more perks to a vehicle that’s already one of the most popular vehicles on the market. On lower trims, features like Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a USB port are now standard. Fuel-conscious shoppers will also be happy to learn that models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine will get two more miles per gallon on the highway, according to Chevrolet.

Though the 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has a starting price that's a bit high for the class, the automotive press says it will appeal to buyers because it does so many things well. "Chevrolet has produced a well-rounded compact sedan that easily holds its own with the best entries in this class,” says Consumer Guide, “but its biggest challenge may be overcoming the buying public's preconceived notions about its brand. If you are shopping compacts, Cruze should certainly be on your shopping list."

Other Cars to Consider

For a more stylish sedan, consider the Hyundai Elantra. The 2012 Elantra starts at about $16,500, and like the Cruze, the Elantra has a reputation as a small car that drives and looks more expensive than it is. The Elantra has optional heated seats in front and back, which is a first in this class. The industry also thinks the Elantra is roomier than the Cruze. The Elantra also comes with some of the highest fuel economy ratings in the class at 29/40 mpg city/highway, regardless of which transmission you pick.

The Chevrolet Cruze and Hyundai Elantra may not appeal to young buyers because they’re not as fun to drive as the Mazda3. It starts at almost $16,000 and has one of the sportiest interiors in the class with performance to match. Its base 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine makes 148 horsepower, and there is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder option that makes 167. Because the Mazda3 has better performance than the Elantra and Cruze, its fuel economy ratings aren’t as high. A Mazda3 with an automatic transmission gets 24/33 mpg city/highway, and that number drops to 22/29 with the 2.5-liter engine and automatic transmission.

Details: 2012 Chevrolet Cruze

The 2012 Cruze hasn’t changed much from the 2011 model. It’s still available in LS, 1LT, 2LT, LTZ and Eco trims and looks the same, but gains more standard features on lower trims. Navigation is now optional on the Eco trim, and the 1LT and Eco trims come standard with a USB port, Bluetooth, steering wheel-mounted audio controls and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. These features were optional last year.

According to Chevrolet, all models with the 1.4-liter turbo engine and six-speed automatic get two more miles per gallon on the highway.

• “The Cruze's roominess, efficiency, quality and refinement bring Chevrolet into a whole new world of compact cars." -- Cars.com
• "When compared to this segment's traditional leaders, the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, the Cruze is fully competitive (or even better) in terms of design and driving dynamics." -- Edmunds
• "Unless you’re determined to downsize, the LTZ doesn’t seem distinctive enough to rationalize its midsize price tag, not when you could have a larger Malibu for about the same money. But if you keep the price closer to $20,000, the Cruze is worth a second look, even if a first glance doesn’t stop you in your tracks." -- The New York Times
• "The Chevrolet Cruze doesn't have the time-tested records of the Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla and therefore doesn't have as high a resale value." -- Kelley Blue Book

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Ford Mustang Review

As household a name as Folgers, Marlboro or Kraft Mac 'n Cheese, the Ford Mustang is the longest surviving of the affordable breed of classic American muscle cars. Sold always in coupe and most times in convertible and 2+2 fastback forms as well since its 1964 introduction, the Ford Mustang is the only one of the original pony cars to enjoy an uninterrupted production run. It hasn't been easy, either, as oil crises, tightening emissions standards and corporate budget cuts have put the Mustang's future in doubt on more than one occasion. Ultimately, though, its iconic status within the Ford lineup and popularity with consumers has seen it through.

2008 Ford Mustang GT Convertible Shown

There have been many great Mustangs over the decades: Most revered as collector cars are the 1965-'70 Shelby Mustangs and the '69 and '70 Boss 302 and 429, while the '69 and '70 Mach 1, 1984-'86 turbocharged SVOs, 2000 Cobra R and '03 and '04 supercharged SVT Cobra are also coveted. Most Mustangs have had far more pedestrian credentials, of course, but with at least one V8 in the lineup for virtually all of the car's lifespan, the Mustang has long been the choice of consumers seeking power and style in a rear-wheel-drive coupe, fastback or convertible. The current-generation Ford Mustang is easily the best ever from the standpoints of performance, refinement and day-to-day livability.

Completely redesigned for 2005, the Mustang moved to an all-new chassis after a 25-year run on the late-'70s-era Fox-body platform. Ford's pony car still uses rear-wheel drive and a fairly basic solid-axle rear suspension, but ride quality and handling are more precisely controlled than on any previous Mustang.

Most noticeable is the car's styling, which pays homage to the famed Mustangs of the 1960s: With its big grille, round headlights, high-mounted foglights and fastback roof line, the current Mustang GT coupe is a throwback to the muscle car heyday. The classic motif continues inside where an old-school dash, steering wheel and instrumentation are integrated into a modern, ergonomically friendly design. Some materials are low in quality, however, as Ford sought to keep the price tag low as well.

Indeed, value remains one of the Ford Mustang's strengths. For about $20,000, you can get into a Mustang coupe with a healthy, 4.0-liter V6 good for 210 horsepower. For about five grand more, you can get a convertible or opt for the GT coupe, which packs a 300-hp, 4.6-liter V8 complete with burbling exhaust note. Fully loaded Mustang GT convertibles top out in the mid-$30K range.

For those who find the GT too tame, an elite Mustang called the Shelby GT500 debuted in coupe and convertible form for 2007. It's much pricier than regular Mustangs, but the payoff is a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 good for 500 hp, and a thoroughly reworked chassis.

There have been eight previous generations of the Ford Mustang, and given the car's sustained popularity over the years, older models are relatively easy to find on the used market. Still, most specimens you're likely to find will be from the eighth generation, sold from 1999-2004. This is the best of the Fox-body Mustangs, and like the current car, it offered a good blend of performance, fun and affordability. Downsides included rather crude handling characteristics (a consequence of the aged platform) and a cheap interior with an awkward driving position.

If you're shopping for an eighth-gen Mustang, our pick would be a GT from any year, as it offered a healthy 260-hp V8. If you're seeking something faster and rarer, consider the limited-edition Mach 1 (305-hp V8) or supercharged SVT Cobra (390-hp V8), which were sold in 2003 and 2004. The Cobra is the only Ford Mustang ever fitted with an independent rear suspension; it was also sold in '99 and 2000 but wasn't supercharged. Even rarer is the 2000 Cobra R, a race-ready, 385-hp Mustang coupe stripped of its rear seats and air-conditioning.

You'll also encounter plenty of seventh-generation Mustang coupes and convertibles, sold from 1994-'98. This car is very similar mechanically to the eighth-gen Mustang; the main difference is exterior styling. If you're thinking of buying one, 1996-'98 GT and SVT Cobra models might be preferable, as the '96 model year brought a new 4.6-liter, SOHC V8 that was much smoother than the outgoing 5.0-liter V8. Although horsepower held steady in the GT, the Cobra jumped from 240 to 305. The most collectible Mustang of this period is the '95 Cobra R, a 300-hp coupe without a backseat.

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