By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 KIA Optima SX Limited Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 274 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 22-mpg city/34-mpg highway Base Price: $26,800 As Tested: $35,470 Performance: Turbocharged 4-cylinder has V6 power True sports … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Hyundai Elantra GT 4-Door Hatchback Engine: 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder, 148 hp, 131 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed Automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 27-mpg city/37-mpg highway Base Price: $19,395 As Tested: $23,015 Performance: Acceleration is adequate, but not exciting … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: Honda Ridgeline RTL  Engine: 3.5-liter SOHC V-6, 250 hp, 253 lb/ft  Transmission: 5-speed automatic, all-wheel drive  EPA Ratings: 15 city/21 highway  Base Price: $37,180  As Tested: $37,990 Performance:  Typically excellent Honda engine and drivetrain Smooth, car-like highway ride … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Mazda CX-5 Sport Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 155 hp, 150 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed manual, Front Wheel Drive (AWD is optional) EPA Ratings: 26-mpg city/35-mpg highway Base Price: $20,695 As Tested: $21,490 Performance: Excellent 6-speed manual transmission and clutch … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Subaru Xv Crosstrek 4-Door Sedan Engine: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder (boxer configuration), 148 hp, 145 lb/ft Transmission: 5-speed manual, All Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 23-mpg city/30-mpg highway Base Price: $21,995 As Tested: $22,790 Performance: Very good fuel economy(our best … read more

By Bruce Caldwell The 2013 Infiniti G37 coupe is a sports car for people who desire performance and fun without attracting unnecessary attention. The G37 coupe (especially with the all-wheel-drive on our tester) has the wherewithal to stay with most competitors, but it’s … read more

By Bruce Caldwell     Model Tested: 2013 Subaru Impreza 2.0 Limited 4dr Sedan       Engine: 2.0-liter horizontally-opposed 4-cylinder, 148 hp, 145 lb/ft       Transmission: CVT automatic, Symmetrical All Wheel Drive       EPA Ratings: 27-mpg city/36-mpg highway … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2013 Chevrolet Volt 4dr Sedan Engine: Electric motor 149-hp, 273-lb/ft plus 1.4-liter 4-cylinder gas engine, 84-hp, 92-lb-ft Transmission: CVT automatic, Front Wheel Drive EPA Ratings: 98-mpg electric (38 mile range)/37-mpg gasoline only Base Price: $39,145 As Tested: $43,375 … read more

By Bruce Caldwell Model Tested: 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI-SE 4-door sedan Engine: 2.0-liter Turbodiesel DOHC I4, 140 hp, 236 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, front wheel drive EPA Ratings: 30-mpg city/40-mpg highway Base Price: $19,995 As Tested: $25,995 Performance: Excellent ride and handling Lots … read more