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 Performance: Smooth and quiet (almost too quiet in electric mode). Four-hour recharge […]
Bruce Caldwell
A lifelong car enthusiast, Bruce Caldwell has an English degree from the University of Washington. In 1975 he joined CAR CRAFT as associate editor. He was a feature editor at HOT ROD and editor of Chevy High Performance, Muscle Car Review, Mustangs and Fords, Chevy Action, Corvette Milestones, Street Rod Quarterly, Mopar Milestones, Mustang Milestones, and Muscle Car Milestones. He has authored several best-selling automotive how-to books and written for numerous national magazines. He has tested over 2,000 new vehicles. He restores collector cars in a well-equipped home shop. Bruce is married with three children.
Posted inBehind The Wheel
Flash Drive: 2012 Volkswagen Passat TDI
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: Comfort: Utility: WOW Factors: Whines: Bottom Line: The 2012 VW Passat TDI is an outstanding mid-size sedan […]
Posted inBehind The Wheel
Flash Drive: 2013 Kia Sportage
Model Tested: 2013 KIA SPORTAGE SX AWD Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder, 260 hp, 269 lb/ft Transmission: 6-speed automatic, All Wheel Drive, Locking Center Differential EPA Ratings: 20-mpg city/25-mpg highway Base Price: $28,400 As Tested: $32,400 Performance Comfort Utility WOW Factors Whines Sporty engine and our spirited driving held fuel economy to high teens Substantial […]