Monday 7 October 2013

                                      New Cars to Buy, The guide of motortrend.com
It's been a year of transition for the automotive industry, as the world's top carmakers continue to forge ahead toward an uncertain future. We've finally seen the long-awaited arrival of the Scion FR-S and Subaru BRZ, and the horsepower wars continue, highlighted by the battle between the Camaro ZL1 and the Shelby GT500. On the opposite end of the spectrum, ever more fuel efficient cars with alternative powertrains are entering the market, including potential game-changers like the Tesla Model S. The coming months will also usher in a seismic change in the all-important midsize sedan segment, with Chevrolet, Ford, Honda, and Nissan rolling out new versions of their entries. All the while, gas prices continue marching in one direction: Upward. Given all the change and new entries on the way, it may be difficult to pick out which car is the right one for you.To make things a little clearer and to give you a better idea of what's to come, we've put together our 2013-2014 Motor Trend Ultimate New Car Buyer's Guide. We break down the 162 car models currently or soon to be on sale with to-the-point reviews that will enable you to make an informed decision regardless of what kind of car you're in the market for.STAR RATING:
Beats Walking*
For Your Neighbors**
Right On The Money***
Fuel For Your Soul****
Drive Before You Die*****

KEY:
5M: 5-speed manual; 6A: 6-speed automatic
7-sp auto-cl man: 7-speed auto-clutch manual
8-sp twin-cl auto: 8-speed twin-clutch auto
BMS: Blindspot monitoring system; Rear cam: Rear view camera
FWD: Front-wheel drive; AWD: All-wheel drive; RWD: Rear-wheel drive
S: Standard; O: Optional; N/A: Not available

Acura ILX

Base Price: $26,795-$29,795
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The new ILX compact luxury sedan is positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand. Variety is key for this new model, because whether buyers are practical, sporty, or eco-conscious, the ILX caters to them with three powertrain options. Acura's new text messaging function, which works when a smartphone is connected via Bluetooth, helps drivers keep their eyes on the road.Driver’s Choice: The 201-hp 2.4L with six-speed manual transmission, complete with steel pedal covers.Sum Up: Acura’s new (small) big thing. ***
Acura ILX
Base Engine2.0L/150-hp/140-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engines2.4L/201-hp/170-lb-ft I-4; 1.5L I-4 + elec, 111 hp
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD
Transmissions6M; 5A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy22-39/31-38 mpg
0-60 MPH6.4-9.9 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


Acura RLX (2014)

Base Price: $50,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New: The replacement for the RL arrives with an all-new powertrain highlighted by a dual-clutch automatic transmission and Acura's new Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system, which will be featured in the upcoming NSX supercar. The RLX will be loaded with a long list of flagship goodies, including two LCD screens, Acura's first lane-keeping assist system, forward-collision warning, and lane-departure warning. A 310-hp front-drive version is expected as the base car.Driver’s Choice: The 370-hp Sport-Hybrid SH-AWD model.Sum Up: Acura’s latest attempt at a range-topping sedan. (not rated)
Acura RLX
Base Engine3.7L/310-hp/280-lb-ft V-6*
Opt Engines3.7L V-6 + elec, 370 hp*
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions7-sp twin-cl auto*
EPA Econ City/Hwy17-30/27-30 mpg*
0-60 MPH5.0-6.0 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: S; BMS: O*
* Estimated


Acura TL

Base Price: $36,500-$40,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New: After going under the knife last year, the TL looks better than ever. And it performs better at the pump, thanks to a new six-speed automatic that bumped mpgs up to 29 highway for FWD models. AWD models don't benefit from the improved fuel economy, but pairing Acura's SH-AWD with a six-speed manual will have enthusiasts thinking about twisty roads instead of efficiency.Look For: Improved seat bolsters in the SH-AWD model.Sum Up: Now with less ugly. ***1/2
Acura TL
Base Engine3.5L/280-hp/254-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engines3.7L/305-hp/273-lb-ft V-6
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy17-20/25-29 mpg
0-60 MPH5.3-6.4 sec
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O*
* Estimated


Acura TSX

Base Price: $31,000-$36,500*
Body Type: Sedan, wagon
What's New: Now that the ILX is in the picture, the TSX is no longer positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand. It carries over into the 2013 model year, and we expect it to merge with the TL as a TLX for 2014 or '15. For 2011, it received some nips and tucks, along with added standard features and a new wagon variant. A new trim level in 2012 dressed the TSX up in special anniversary digs.Best Buy: The Special Edition if you want a six-speed manual transmission.Sum Up: Still a solid all-arounder. *** 1/2
Acura TSX
Base Engine2.4L/201-hp/170-172-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engines3.5L/280-hp/254-lb-ft V-6
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD
Transmissions6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy19-22/28-31 mpg
0-60 MPH5.9-8.2 sec
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A


Aston Martin DB9/Virage

Base Price: $195,000-$230,000*
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: The new Virage slots between the DB9 and DBS in Aston's lineup, and is the last hurrah for the British marque's VH architecture, which will be replaced with an all-new chassis when the new Vanquish arrives in 2014. The regular DB9 is the cheapest way to get into a four-passenger V-12 Aston Martin. Its long hood and short deck are set off by its Coke-bottle silhouette.Cool Fact: The DB9 is the first car built on Aston's VH Platform.Sum Up: British GT aging gracefully. ***
Aston Martin DB9/Virage
Base Engine5.9L/470-490 hp/420-443-lb-ft V-12
Opt EnginesNone
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy13/18-20 mpg
0-60 MPH4.2-4.6 sec
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 4; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A


Aston Martin DBS

Base Price: $282,000-$306,000*
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: The 2013 DBS soldiers on unchanged as Aston Martin readies the new Vanquish, which will supplant the DBS as its flagship coupe. Last year, the DBS' stability control was revised to help put all 510 of the V-12's horses to the pavement, and the Volante convertible returned packing a 13-speaker Bang &Olufsen audio system. Aston's top GT can be ordered as a two-seater or a 2+2 and with a 6M or 6A.Look For: All-new carbon-fiber Vanquish to replace the DBS in 2014.Sum Up: Grand Tourer gets grander with DBS Ultimate. ****
Aston Martin DBS
Base Engine5.9L/510-hp/420-lb-ft V-12
Opt EnginesNone
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy11-12/17-18 mpg
0-60 MPH4.2-4.4 sec*
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 4; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


Aston Martin Rapide

Base Price: $212,000*
Body Type: Hatch
What's New: Things are quiet for Aston's sole four-door offering for 2013. New for 2012, the Rapide is based on a lengthened version of the VH platform that accommodates rear doors. Designers made the transformation without losing the sensuous body lines. The interior features high-quality materials and a matching luggage set.Cool Fact: The striking sedan is powered by the same 5.9-liter V-12 as the DB9 coupe.Sum Up: An Aston Martin for the family. ****
Aston Martin Rapide
Base Engine5.9L/470-hp/443-lb-ft V-12
Opt EnginesNone
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy13/19 mpg
0-60 MPH4.7 sec
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A


Aston Martin V8 Vantage/V12 Vantage

Base Price: $130,000-$200,000*
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: Aston Martin's "entry-level" sports car soldiers on to 2013 unchanged. The 510-hp, 5.9-liter V-12 was shoehorned under the hood in 2010, and the S model arrived in 2011 with a power boost for the 4.7-liter V-8 and the new seven-speed auto-clutch manual. Last year, the Vantage gained a Garmin satellite navigation system, new beam blade wiper blades, and three new brake caliper color options.Driver's Choice: V12 Vantage for the lightest chassis, most powerful engine.Sum Up: The gentleman's sports car. **** 1/2
Aston Martin V8 Vantage/V12 Vantage
Base Engine4.7L/420-430-hp/346-361-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engines5.9L/510-hp/420-lb-ft V-12
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6M; 7-sp auto-cl man
EPA Econ City/Hwy11-14/17-21 mpg
0-60 MPH3.9-4.7 sec
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 4; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A

Audi A3 (2014)

Base Price: $28,500-$32,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The Audi A3 is all-new for 2014 and the first Audi to ride on the Volkswagen Group's MQB platform. Audi will offer the A3 exclusively as a four-door sedan in the States (the two-door hatchback is shown at left). We expect engine choices to include turbocharged four-cylinder gas and diesel mills similar to those found in the outgoing four-door hatch model.Look For: A bigger, more upscale A3 to make room for the A1 subcompact.Sum Up: New sedan should attract more buyers. (not rated)
Audi A3
Base Engine2.0L/211-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Opt Engines2.0L/140-hp/236-lb-ft t-diesel I-4*
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto*
EPA Econ City/Hwy22-30/30-42 mpg*
0-60 MPH6.1-7.9 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O*
* Estimated


Audi A4/S4

Base Price: $33,395-$48,495
Body Type: Sedan, wagon
What's New: The A4 gets a mild refresh, with a new front fascia featuring a revised grille; new headlights with redesigned LED daytime running lights; and reshaped foglamp units. Skinnier taillights and a revised lower bumper highlight the changes out back, while the interior gets a new steering wheel and simplified buttons. Replacing the A4 Avant is the A4 allroad, which features rugged looks and increased ground clearance.Cool Fact: Wi-Fi hot spot makes its way to the A4.Sum Up: Audi's volume leader gets some attention. ****
Audi A4/S4
Base Engine2.0L/211-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s'chg'd V-6
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy18-22/27-31 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.9-6.4 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O*
* Estimated


Audi A5/S5/RS 5

Base Price: $38,745-$69,795
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: Audi's handsome coupe and convertible get a minor face-lift with revised headlights, taillights, and new wheel designs. The S5 coupe ditches its V-8 for the same 3.0-liter supercharged V-6 (333-hp/325 lb-ft) used in the S5 cabrio. The big news is the RS 5 coupe, which reaffirms Audi's commitment to bringing hi-po models to the United States. The RS 5 comes packing a 4.2-liter V-8 rated at 444 hp and 317 lb-ft.Driver's Choice: RS 5 should have AMG and M drivers on alert.Sum Up: Handsome looker is faster, too. ****
Audi A5/S5/RS 5
Base Engine2.0L/211-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s'chg'd V-6; 4.2L/450-hp/317-lb-ft V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy14-22/22-31 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.3-6.9 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags:6; rear cam: O; BMS: O
* Estimated


Audi A6/S6

Base Price: $43,095-$72,795
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The 2.0T engine can now be had with Quattro. The S6 joins the lineup and features an all-new twin-turbo 4.0-liter V-8 engine rated at 414 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The new mill is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch auto, and, as you'd expect, power is sent to all four wheels. We think the S6 will post a 0-60-mph time somewhere in the mid-to-high 4-second range.Cool Fact: Optional sport differential can send all power to just one wheel.Sum Up: Get it any way you want: 4, 6, or twin-turbo 8. *** 1/2
Audi A6/S6
Base Engine2.0L/211-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L V-6/310-hp/325 lb-ft s'chg'd V-6; 4.0L/414-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
TransmissionsCVT; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy19-25/28-33 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.7-7.0 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: O; BMS: O
* Estimated


Audi A7/S7

Base Price: $60,995-$79,695
Body Type: Hatch
What's New: Audi's S family gains a head-turning fastback, thanks to the addition of the 2013 S7. Like its platform-mate the S6, it's powered by a 4.0-liter V-8. The new twin-turbo engine produces 414 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. The S7 also gets Audi's fast-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and advanced Quattro system. Exterior touches include quad tailpipes, S badges, and five-spoke 19-inch rims.Driver's Choice: Get S7's optional sport differential for maximum grip.Sum Up: The S adds a nice margin of performance. ****
Audi A7/S7
Base Engine3.0L/310-hp/325-lb-ft s'chg'd V-6
Opt Engines4.0L/414-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, AWD
Transmissions8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy16-18/26-28 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.5-4.7 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: S; BMS: O
* Estimated


Audi A8/S8

Base Price: $73,095-$137,495
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The A8 receives new powerplants for 2013, including Audi's supercharged 3.0-liter V-6 as the base engine in place of the 4.2-liter V-8. The sportier S8 also gets a 4.0-liter, twin-turbo V-8 tuned to produce 512 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. That's 98 hp and 73 lb-ft more than the version powering the S6 and S7. The S8's interior showcases premium materials, including diamond-patterned leather seats.Cool fact: The A8 uses aluminum spaceframe construction.Sum Up: Can be spec'd from mild to wild. ****
Audi A8/S8
Base Engine3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s'chg'd V-6
Opt Engines4.0L/512-hp/479-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 6.3L/500-hp/463-lb-ft W-12
DrivetrainFront engine, AWD
Transmissions8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy14-17/21-28 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.4-5.6 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
Safety8; rear cam: S; BMS: O
* Estimated


Audi R8/R8 GT

Base Price: $118,500-$200,000*
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: The R8 gets a significant transmission update as the six-speed single-clutch auto makes way for a new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox, which should provide faster and smoother shifts. Audi's Gallardo-based supercar also gets a mild refresh, with a revised grille, updated headlights including redesigned LED daytime running lamps, and new taillights.Look For: A lighter curb weight, thanks to carbon-fiber panels.Sum Up: Still a fast head-turner. *****
Audi R8/R8 GT
Base Engine4.2L/420-hp/317-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engines5.2L/525-560-hp/398-lb-ft V-10
DrivetrainMid-engine, AWD
Transmissions6M; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy11-13/19-21 mpg
0-60 MPH3.5-4.6 sec
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O


Audi TT/TTS/TT RS

Base Price: $39,545-$58,095
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: A new S-Line Competition Package for the TT coupe adds black leather and Alcantara seats with gray contrast stitching and 19-inch, 7-spoke rims. Baseball-stitched leather seats make a comeback for the TT and TTS coupe and are available in Madras brown for the coupe and black leather for the roadster. Four new paint choices have been added.Cool Fact: Two of the new colors -- Daytona Gray and Samoa Orange -- were previously exclusive to the R8.Sum Up: Holding strong before the next-gen arrives. ***
Audi TT/TTS/TT RS
Base Engine2.0L/211-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines2.0L/265-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.5L/360-hp/343-lb-ft turbo I-5
DrivetrainFront engine, AWD
Transmissions6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy18-23/25-31 mpg
0-60 MPH4.3-6.0 sec
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A

Bentley Continental Flying Spur/Speed

Base Price: $175,000-$290,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The Bentley Continental Flying Spur Speed debuts with a claimed 205-mph top speed and a close-ratio 8A transmission. A lowered suspension is said to deliver better performance (and looks), while the W-12 engine has been uprated to 616 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque. The 8A improves mileage by 12 percent but, then again, so does simply going with the V-8 model.Avoid: Acting surprised by the attention you get behind the Speed's wheel.Sum Up: Now more efficient, but more capable than ever. **** 1/2
Bentley Continental Flying Spur/Speed
Base Engine4.0L/500-hp/487-lb-ft twin-turbo W-12
Opt Engines6.0L/552-600-hp/479-553-lb-ft twin-turbo W-12
DrivetrainFront engine, AWD
Transmissions6A; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy11-15/19-24 mpg
0-60 MPH3.6-5.0 sec*
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 10; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


Bentley Continental GT/Speed/Supersports

Base Price: $175,000-$290,000*
Body Type: Sedan, coupe, conv
What's New: The Bentley Continental GT Speed coupe is pumped up to 616 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, backed by a new eight-speed automatic. Bentley claims the new GT Speed is capable of 205 mph, while the new gearbox is said to improve fuel economy by up to 12 percent. Modified steering and a suspension with lowered ride height combined with 21-inch wheels enhance the Continental’s handling capabilities.Best Buy: New V-8 offers W-12 performance, better fuel economy for less.Sum Up: A driver’s car for the ultra-wealthy. ****1/2
Bentley Continental GT/Speed/Supersports
Base Engine4.0L/500-hp/487-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engines6.0L/552-621-hp/590-lb-ft twin-turbo W-12
DrivetrainFront engine, AWD
Transmissions6A, 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy17-25/27-36 mpg
0-60 MPH3.6-5.0 sec*
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 10; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


Bentley Mulsanne

Base Price: $290,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: A moonroof becomes standard. Several options have been added including the MDS package with a sport suspension and two-piece 21-inch alloy wheels. The iPad Specification adds power rear picnic tables and iPad holders, a pair of iPads with wireless keyboards, and in-car Wi-Fi. A Theater Specification adds ceiling-mounted monitor, Apple hard drive, 64-gig iPod Touch, and two headrest screens.Cool Fact: Optional Champagne cooler holds two bottles and three flutes.Sum Up: A traditional Bentley for Rolls Royce cross-shoppers. **** 1/2
Bentley Mulsanne
Base Engine6.8L/505-hp/752-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt EnginesNone
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy11/18 mpg
0-60 MPH4.9 sec
Basic Warranty3 yrs/unlimited miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


BMW 1 Series

Base Price: $32,095-$48,845
Body Type: Coupe, conv
What's New: The limited-edition 1 Series M Coupe may be gone, but the sporty compact BMW gap is filled by the new 135is for 2013. That car gets a 320-hp, 3.0L turbo I-6 mated to a 6M or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. A sport suspension and 18-inch alloy wheels are standard. Other 1 Series models receive few changes for 2013, still offering the same base 230-hp, 3.0L I-6 and 300-hp, turbo 3.0L unit of the 135i.Look For: This model to switch to a front-drive platform soon.Sum Up: Proving that smaller isn't always a downgrade. ***

BMW 1 Series
Base Engine3.0L/230-hp/200-lb-ft I-6
Opt Engines3.0L/300-320-hp/300-317-lb-ft turbo I-6
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6M; 6A; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
0-60 MPH18-20/26-28 mpg*
EPA Econ City/Hwy4.4-5.7 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: N/A; BMS: O
* Estimated


BMW 3 Series/M3

Base Price: $39,595-$71,345
Body Type: Sedan, coupe, conv
What's New: The sixth-generation BMW 3 Series receives BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system as an option for sedan models in 2013, available with the 240-hp, 2.0L turbo I-4 or 300-hp, 3.0L turbo I-6 drivetrain. The ActiveHybrid 3 will arrive later, powered by a turbocharged 3.0L I-6 and electric motor good for 335 hp. The previous-generation coupe and convertible carryover for 2013, as does the M3.Look For: A new coupe and convertible and M3 in the future.Sum Up: BMW sets the bar way up in the stratosphere. ****
BMW 3 Series/M3
Base Engine2.0L/240-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L turbo I-6 + elec, 335 hp*; 4.0L/414-hp/295-lb-ft V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy13-23/20-33 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.1-5.8 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O
* Estimated


BMW 5 Series/5 Series GT/M5

Base Price: $48,000-$91,000*
Body Type: Sedan, hatch
What's New: The all-new M5 arrives with a 560-hp 4.4L twin-turbo V-8, mated to a 6M or seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for 2013. The latest high-performance 5 Series is capable of 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds. Also arriving is the 335-hp ActiveHybrid 5, offering 30 mpg highway fuel economy. The standard 5 Series is still offered with a choice of 2.0L turbo I-4, 3.0L turbo I-6, or 4.4L twin-turbo V-8.Driver's Choice: The M5's 560 horses don't disappoint.Sum Up: From hybrid to high octane and everything in between. ***

BMW 5 Series/5 Series GT/M5
Base Engine2.0L/240-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L turbo I-6 + elec, 335 hp*; 4.4L/400-560-hp/450-500-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy13-23/22-34 mpg*
0-60 MPH3.7-5.8 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O
* Estimated


BMW 6 Series/Gran Coupe/M6

Base Price: $74,495-$113,995
Body Type: Coupe, conv, sedan
What’s New: For 2013, the 6 Series moves into four-door coupe territory with the addition of the Gran Coupe, BMW's answer to the Mercedes CLS and Audi A7. It is powered by a 3.0L turbo I-6 or 4.4L twin-turbo V-8, but has no manual transmission. The M6 convertible arrives for 2012, while the M6 coupe goes on sale as a 2013 model, both packing 560 hp.Driver's Choice: A manual-equipped 650i coupe with M Sport package. makes for a cheaper M6 alternative.Sum Up: Still sleek with two extra doors. *** 1/2

BMW 6 Series/Gran Coupe/M6
Base Engine3.0L/315-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6
Opt Engines4.4L/400-hp/450-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 4.4L/445-560-hp/480-500-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD/AWD
Transmissions6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy14-23/20-33 mpg
0-60 MPH4.2-5.4 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: S; BMS: O
* Estimated

BMW 7 Series/Alpina B7Base Price: $74,195-$143,195
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New: The 7 Series receives a mild face-lift for 2013, along with more power for the six- and eight-cylinder engines. The 3.0L turbo I-6 now produces 315 hp, while the 4.4L, twin-turbo V-8 makes 445 hp. Both engines get start-stop tech standard. BMW's xDrive AWD is now optional for six-cylinder models, and a rear air suspension system is standard on all models. The ActiveHybrid 7 ditches the V-8 for a hybrid I-6 setup good for 349 hp.Cool Fact: Available Dynamic Damper Control automatically adjusts shocks.Sum Up: Aging luxobarge gets a touch-up. ***
BMW 7 Series/Alpina B7
Base Engine3.0L/315-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6
Opt Engines4.4L/445-500-hp/480-516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 3.0L turbo I-6 + elec, 349-hp; 6.0L/535-hp/550-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD/AWD
Transmissions6A; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy14-19/20-28 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.1-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: S; BMS: O
* Estimated


BMW Z4

Base Price: $50,000-$65,000*
Body Type: Convertible
What's New: The stylish Z4 hardtop convertible continues into 2013 with few changes. Last year, the base naturally aspirated 3.0L I-6 was replaced by BMW's new 2.0L turbo I-4, increasing output to 240 hp and 260 lb-ft. The 300-hp 3.0L turbo I-6 is still available in the sDrive35i and sDrive35is, while the latter model also enjoys a standard 7-sp dual-clutch transmission.Cool Fact: The Z4 was the basis for BMW’s stunning one-off Zagato Coupe.Sum Up: Handling isn't quite as sharp as its sheetmetal. ***
BMW Z4
Base Engine2.0L/240-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engines3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L/335-hp/332-lb-ft twin-turbo I-6
DrivetrainFront engine, RWD
Transmissions6A; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy17-22/24-32 mpg*
0-60 MPH4.3-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 8; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A
* Estimated

Buick LaCrosse

Base Price: $32,535-$36,910
Body Type: Sedan
What's New: The LaCrosse gains Buick's IntelliLink infotainment system as standard equipment. In addition, XM Travel Link, which delivers real-time updates on gas prices, weather, and movie times, is available as a subscription-based option. The rearview mirror has been repositioned for better visibility. Front-drive models equipped with GM's 3.6L V-6 get electric power steering to help save fuel.Best Buy: The base LaCrosse with eAssist is luxurious and frugal.Sum Up: Still creeping in on Lexus' turf. ***
Buick LaCrosse
Base Engine2.4L I-4 + elec, 182 hp
Opt Engines3.6L/303-hp/264-lb-ft V-6
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD/AWD
Transmissions6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy17-25/27-36 mpg
0-60 MPH6.5-8.6 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: O; BMS: O
* Estimated


Buick Regal/Turbo/GS

Base Price: $28,000-$36,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New: Buick makes the eAssist drivetrain the Regal’s base engine for the 2013 model year, dropping the non-hybrid 2.4L Ecotec. All Regals get Buick’s IntelliLink infotainment system, which includes Bluetooth connectivity and voice command capabilities as standard. All turbo models except the GS receive heated steering wheels.Cool Fact: A Regal GS with 20-inch wheels stopped from 60-0 mph in just 105 feet in our tests, nearly matching the Corvette Grand Sport.Sum Up: Continues to bury Buick's "old person" reputation. ***
Buick Regal/Turbo/GS
Base Engine2.4L I-4 + elec, 182 hp
Opt Engines2.0L/220-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/270-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD
Transmissions6M; 6A
0-60 MPH6.2-9.1 sec*
EPA Econ City/Hwy18-25/27-36 mpg*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
SafetyAirbags: 6; rear cam: N/A; BMS: N/A
* Estimated


Buick Verano/Turbo

Base Price: $23,500-$27,000*
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New: The arrival of the Verano Turbo addresses concerns over the base model's lack of power. The new model gets a turbocharged 250-hp, 2.0L I-4 mated to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. All Veranos get IntelliLink and a rearview camera standard. Side Blind Zone Alert and Rear Cross-Traffic Alert are standard on all uplevel models.Cool Fact: The Verano is the only car in its class to use acoustic-laminated side glass.Sum Up: Bump in power warrants a second look. ***
Buick Verano/Turbo
Base Engine2.4L/182-hp/172-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engines2.0L/250-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4
DrivetrainFront engine, FWD
Transmission6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy19-21/30-32 mpg*
0-60 MPH6.2-8.3 sec*
Basic Warranty4 yrs/50,000 miles
Safety: AirbagsAirbags: 6; rear cam: S; BMS: O
* Estimated


Cadillac ATS

Base Price: $33,990-$42,090
Body Type: Sedan
What’s New:Cadillac's 3 Series fighter is all-new for 2013 and has high-tech features like the new CUE infotainment system. A 202-hp, 2.5-liter I-4 is standard; a 2.0-liter, 272-hp turbo I-4 serves as the enthusiasts' special; and a 3.6-liter, 321-hp V-6 tops the range. The I-4 comes standard with a 6M; the V-6 with a 6A. All-wheel drive will be an option.

No comments:

Post a Comment