Model Tested: 2014 Mazda MX-5 Miata Grand Touring Power Hardtop Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 167 horsepower 140 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed manual transmission rear-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 21/City—28/Highway—24/Combined Base Price: $29,450 As Tested: $32,285 Performance: A go-kart with air conditioning and a retractable hardtop Super nimble and responsive More fun to drive than most congested highways will […]
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Posted inBehind The Wheel
Unparalleled Luxury in a Tough Truck
The full-size 2014 Toyota Tundra pickup features evolutionary styling, with most of its body panels sporting a new look, while offering realistic work capability and legendary Toyota reliability and durability. There are three engine choices, three cabs, three bed sizes and five trim levels — including the top-of-the-line 1794, which was my test vehicle. Towing […]
Posted inBehind The Wheel
Flash Drive 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe
Model Tested: 2014 Hyundai Elantra Coupe Engine: 2.0-liter I-4, 173 horsepower 154 lb-ft torque Transmission: 6-speed automatic transmission front-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 24/City—34/Highway—28/Combined Base Price: $19,600 As Tested: $24,735 Performance: Satisfactory acceleration, nothing spectacular Nice six-speed automatic transmission Smooth highway ride Test car equaled EPA economy estimates Pretty nimble handling Comfort: Excellent, multi-function steering wheel Comfy […]
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2014 Mitsubishi Lancer
Model Tested: 2014 Mitsubishi Lancer SE AWD Engine: 2.4-liter I-4, 168 horsepower 167 lb-ft torque Transmission: CVT automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 22/City—29/Highway—25/Combined Base Price: $20,695 As Tested: $22,940 Performance: More power than the base model, but short of the mighty Evo Fine AWD system, but again not the trick Lancer Evo system Console switch for […]
Posted inBehind The Wheel
2014 Mitsubishi Mirage
Model Tested: 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage ES five-door hatchback Engine: 1.2-liter three-cylinder DOHC, 72 horsepower 74 lb-ft torque Transmission: Continuously Variable Automatic (CVT) front-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 37/City—44/Highway—40/Combined Base Price: $15,195 As Tested: $15,990 Performance: 74 horsepower, 74 lb-ft torque Seriously lacking power; agonizingly slow CVT doesn’t help situation Rough, noisy engine Incredible fuel economy for a […]
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All-New 2015 Lexus NX Compact Luxury-Utility Offers Choice of Turbo or Hybrid Power
In 1998, Lexus created the luxury-utility crossover segment with the debut of the original midsized RX, and is looking to take the lead again the growing compact segment with the all-new 2015 NX. Following the route of the Lexus GS and IS sedans, the 2015 NX introduces enticing design to a segment known for its […]
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Ford Claims Bigger Share of Police Vehicle Market
In just two years, Ford has revolutionized the police-vehicle market by equipping much of its Police Interceptor lineup with standard all-wheel drive, which works full-time for greater mobility and security; adding more fuel-efficient EcoBoost engines; and introducing two new body styles — including a popular utility vehicle. Ford police vehicle sales grew 48 percent in […]
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Things to Know Before Buying a Hybrid
Gas/electric hybrid cars have come a long way from the geeky-looking Honda Insight and the original Toyota Prius. Today, there are hybrid choices by almost every manufacturer in almost every market segment, from compact two-seaters to full-size, nine-passenger SUVs. The greatest number of choices are in the compact or midsize sedan segment, and include hybrid […]
Posted inBehind The Wheel
2015 Subaru WRX
Model Tested: 2015 Subaru WRX Premium Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged flat four-cylinder Boxer design Transmission: Sport Lineartronic automatic, all-wheel-drive EPA Ratings: 19/City—25/Highway—21/Combined Base Price: $29,695 As Tested: $30,490 Performance: 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft torque Ample power and torque for sporty performance Great all-wheel-drive easily handles available power Very responsive CVT automatic with paddle shifters Suspension […]