Going back a few years, most car buyers sought miles per gallon and utility while buying new cars, and it is not much different now. This year, fuel efficiency is still a major factor deciding the success of newly launched vehicles, and even though sportiness is assuming a center stage once again, there is a fierce competition amongst the $20,000 and $30,000 priced vehicles. New car sales are still continuing their upward trend, and there are a few makes and models to look out for in 2013. A newly emerging trend is the demand for electric cars which are currently inviting up to $10,000 in terms of sales incentives. Moreover, new hybrid and electric cars offer a one-time $7,500 federal tax credit, in addition to other state and local freebies in terms of vehicle tax credits. Some of the new entrants are worth checking out.
With a 6.2L engine packed with 385 horsepower and 405 pound-feet of torque, the Ford F-250 is a power packed truck offering immense pulling and towing capacity, up to 18,500 pounds. The optional 6.7-liter turbo-diesel V8 engine variant offers 400 hp with 800 pound-feet of torque. Both the models support six-speed automatic transmission, and an optional four-wheel drive option. With its brawny attributes, the Ford F-250 is endowed as the “Best-in-class” option for high performance truck lovers.
For car shoppers who desire a small car with sharp handling, the Chevrolet Sonic is a jewel offering a spacious cabin, smooth performance, and oodles of power. Outfitted with a potent turbocharged 1.4-liter and four-cylinder engine, the sonic is available in two variants – sedan and hatchback. The hatchback packs 138 hp, 148 pound-feet torque, and with a curb weight of just 2811 pounds, it is a light car. The variants are also available in a six-speed manual as well as an automatic transmission. The sonic is a fun car to drive.
The all-new sophisticated German Passat is only available with a diesel engine. It is the largest passenger car within the Volkswagen line-up, and possesses the refinements and technology typical of the German auto manufacturer. Available as a front-wheel drive and a four-door sedan, the variants offer three engine choices – 170 hp 2.5 liter five cylinder, 140 hp 2.0 liter TDI four cylinder, and 280 hp 3.6-liter VR6 engines. The Passat distinguishes itself with its European style refinement and an efficient diesel power-train assembly. The Volkswagen Passat is a rock solid choice in terms of a family sedan.
The retro inspired Mustang remains one of the most widely recognized and respected nameplates in the automobile industry, and delivers the characteristic bold styling, rear drive feature, and affordability which has been a Ford Mustang hallmark for years. It is available as a coupe and a convertible, with both the variants offering a choice of 305 hp 3.7-liter V6 engine or a 420 hp 5.0 liter V8 engine. The manual six-speed transmission is standard, while a six-speed automatic transmission is offered as optional. The 5.0 liter engine variant offers 420 hp.
The BMW 5 Series is most advanced as ever with its sedans, ActiveHybrid variants, and the Grand Turismo. In addition to elegance and performance, the BMW 5 Series offers a diverse range of vehicles which makes it indispensable. The series include the BMW 528i, BMW 520i, BMW 550i and BMW 535i models. Equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the models are available in power packed and fuel efficient petrol as well as diesel engines. The trademark intelligent BMW xDrive all wheel drive system delivers a driving pleasure that is unparalleled on every road, every bend, and in every driving situation.
As the most recognizable icon, the Mercedes-Benz SL-Class epitomizes elegance and performance in the grand touring coupe and roadster car segments. The all-new Mercedes-Benz SL Class offers a retractable hardtop, and weighs much less than its predecessor owing to its aluminum construction. The new SL is a bigger and rigid car, and comes with a larger selection of luxury, convenience, and safety features. The current SL lineup includes three models. The Mercedes-Benz SL550 model features a 4.7 liter twin-turbo V8 engine which produces 429 horsepower, and 516 pound-feet of torque.
The boldly designed Dodge Charger is a full size four door sedan which can suit almost every car buyers needs. The Charger is available in variants such as the SE, R/T, Rallye, and SRT8. The Rallye and SE models are equipped with a 3.6-liter V6 engine offering a 370 hp. Other features available in the variants are heated front and rear seats, HID headlights, blind spot detection, satellite radio, power adjustable pedals, leather trimmed power seats, power sunroof, and advanced navigation system.
The Lexus LS series sedan is known for its quality, dependability, and conservatism. The latest LS has a more aggressive styling and a brand new interior. It is powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 386 hp and 360 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission is a standard feature on every LS model.
The CX-5 has proved to be a big success for Mazda with its blend of generous feature content, good looks, ample space and a car like driving experience. It is a good choice for folks searching for a compact crossover SUV. The Mazda CX-5 offers versatility, all weather capability, spaciousness, and a plethora of advanced features. The model is equipped with a 2.5 liters engine, produces 184 horsepower, and 185 pound-feet of torque.
For car shoppers searching for a split between a wagon and a crossover SUV, the 2013 Audi Allroad would be an ideal pick. The new Allroad is taller, longer, wider, and offers a better ground clearance than its predecessor. It has a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and an all-wheel drive option. The Allroad’s real strength lies in its cabin with high quality materials, a modern design, and a range of advanced features. The Allroad is a good vehicle to sit in and drive.
The Cayenne is a practical vehicle with a seating capacity of five, 62.9 cubic feet of cargo space, and enough power to tow 7,716 lbs. The Cayenne is an ideal choice for daily commutation. Equipped with a direct injection V6 engine offering 300 hp and 295 pound-feet of torque, the base Cayenne model comes with steel springs in lieu of a standard option of air suspension. It features the Porsche Active Suspension Management (PASM). With an exception of more efficient but costly Hybrid and Diesel versions, the Porsche Cayenne is the ideal budget-choice in terms of Porsche crossovers.
A thought about interior, innovative seating facility, and some excellent handling capabilities makes the 2013 Honda Odyssey standout amongst the minivans, even though it is the costliest of them all. The Honda Odyssey comes in five models – the LX, EX, EX-L, Touring, and Touring Elite. All Honda Odysseys are equipped with a 248 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 engine. The LX, EX and EX-L models are fitted with a five-speed automatic transmission, whereas the Touring and Touring Elite models have a six-speed transmission offering better fuel economy as well as acceleration.
The Armada has everything to consolidate its position as Nissan’s flagship SUV. With a seating capacity of up to eight people, the vehicle is available in a rear or a four-wheel drive option. The Nissan Armada has immense towing capability owing to its 317 hp 5.6-liter V8 engine mated with a five-speed automatic transmission. The Armada offers three other models – SV, SL, and Platinum trims.
If pedigree means a lot to you, the Range Rover is the ultimate vehicle in the sport-utility market. The new 2013 Range Rover seats five passengers, and the luxury SUV is available in two models – HSE model with 375 horsepower including 375 pound-feet of torque, and Supercharged model featuring a V8 engine offering an 510 hp and 461 pound-feet torque. Both the models feature a 5.0-liter V8 engine with a six-speed automatic transmission and manual shift control.
The Fiat 500 maintains its Italian styling and flair in its subcompact two-door hatchback version in the US market. The 500 is available in five models – Sport, Pop, Sport Turbo, Lounge, and Abarth. It is powered by a 1.4 liter Multi Air four-cylinder engine offering 101 horsepower. Two transmissions are available – a five-speed manual in all standard models and an exclusive North American model with a six-speed automatic transmission with sequential shifting.
For car buyers who desire a tougher and a more rugged truck, Ford offers its hard-working Super Duty F-350 which features eye-popping hauling and towing capabilities including a wide range of cab styles, bed lengths, and technology options. The Ford F-350 Super Duty is more robust than ever before, and is fit for hard work thanks to its dual rear-wheel setup which improves the stability to a great extent. The Ford F-350 Super Duty is available in several models – crew cab, regular cab, extended cab, midlevel XLT, base XL, horse-saddle-inspired King Ranch, luxurious Lariat, and the ultra-plush Platinum.
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