2010-2011 New Cars: The Ultimate Guide, Part 5
Rolls-Royce to Volvo
Welcome to the final installment of our complete, model-by-model review of all the latest new cars heading to U.S. dealerships for next year and the following.
Your comprehensive search concludes here with PART FIVE of 2010-2011 New Cars: The Ultimate Guide, which covers all the latest new car offerings by automakersfromRolls-RoycetoVolvo.PART ONE, which covers automakers fromAcuratoCadillac,CAN BE FOUND BY CLICKING HERE. PART TWO, which covers automakers fromChevrolettoHonda, CAN BE FOUND HERE. PART THREE, which covers automakers fromHyundaitoMaserati, CAN BE FOUND HERE. PART FOUR, which covers automakers fromMaybachtoPorsche, CAN BE FOUND HERE
STAR RATINGS:
ROLLS-ROYCE GHOST
BASE PRICE RANGE:$300,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Based on the 200EX concept unveiled at the Geneva auto show this past March, the production-version Ghost is powered by an all-new 6.6L twin-turbocharged V-12, outputting in excess of 500 hp and mated to an 8A ZF gearbox. Although details are still forthcoming, the new Ghost should incorporate most of the 200EX's ultra-high-end features.
COOL FACT:Built on its own dedicated assembly line but shares paint, wood, and leather workshops with the Phantom.
SUM UP:The Rolls for everyone. Everyone rich. (Not Rated)
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ROLLS-ROYCE PHANTOM/COUPE/DROPHEAD COUPE
BASE PRICE RANGE:$382,000-$452,000BODY TYPE:Sedan, coupe, convertible
WHAT'S NEW:Following the midyear updates, a new clock and interior control updates, the 2010 models receive minor adjustments; most notably, automatic high-beam control, a fully veneered dashboard, and new forged wheel options.
COOL FACT:All Phantoms now come with a presentation key box, finished in Piano Black for that extra, extra touch of class.
SUM UP:It has no competition.****
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First Drive: 2009 Rolls-Royce Phantom Coupe
First Drive: Rolls-Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe
Head to Head: 2005 Bentley Arnage R vs. 2006 Rolls-Royce Phantom
SAAB 9-3
BASE PRICE RANGE:$35,400-$41,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan, convertible, wagon
WHAT'S NEW:New 9-3X's visual differentiations include unique front/rear bumpers, wheelhouse cladding, standard front foglamps, slightly raised (35 mm) chassis. Other highlights are new look for Aero Sedan XWD, and new packaging options, and the 9-3X with an AWD wagon iteration. Downside is loss of 2.8L V-6 engine.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:The new 9-3X offers SUV versatility without guzzling gas or hogging garage space.
SUM UP:For rugged individualists only.**1/2
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First Drive: 2008 Saab Turbo X
SAAB 9-5
BASE PRICE:$39,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Hurray! A brand-new, totally revamped 9-5 is finally in the offing. Looks like it will be based on the Epsilon II platform shared with 2010 Buick LaCrosse and Opel Insignia. The first engines on offer will more than likely be the 9-3's I-4 and a larger engine that hasn't been announced.
COOL FACT:Saab's new owner has a workforce of fewer than 100.
SUM UP:Can you say Koenigsegg? (Not Rated)
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SATURN AURA
BASE PRICE RANGE:$23,400-$28,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:The brand's owner. Penske Automotive is in final negotiations to buy the Saturn brand from General Motors. Part of the tentative agreement: GM will build Aura, Vue, Outlook (no Sky) for Penske through 2011. Minor changes to the Aura: power lumbar support, a Bose audio system due midyear, the Euro-style side marker lights deleted, and there are new paint choices.
COOL FACT:2012 replacement could be Altima-based car built by Nissan in U.S.
SUM UP:Malibu with Penske's imprimatur.**1/2
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Comparison: 2007 Nissan Altima Hybrid vs. 2007 Saturn Aura Green Line vs. 2007 Toyota Camry Hybrid
SCION TC
BASE PRICE:$17,670BODY TYPE:Hatchback
WHAT'S NEW:Nautical Blue replaces Blue Ribbon as sole change on this aging but still high-value FWD hatch coupe. tC's "mono spec" menu includes numerous power assists, a 160-watt Pioneer sound system, stability/traction/ABS. An audio upgrade, nav system, Bluetooth, and a TRD exhaust head its modest extras list.
COOL FACT:The tC remains the first and only subcompact coupe to come with a panoramic power sunroof as standard equipment.
SUM UP:Past its use-by date.**
SCION XB
BASE PRICE:$16,420BODY TYPE:Hatchback
WHAT'S NEW:No changes to well-appointed basic package-or base price-but boxy xB gains a new 160-watt Pioneer audio system and HD-capable Alpine upgrade with more speakers, extra power, and optional plug-in nav system. Other tweaks for 2010 include integrated USB/iPod inputs, and new steering-wheel controls.
COOL FACT:The xB's new optional navigation system includes voice guidance plus 3D and conventional map views.
SUM UP: Toyota builds a better box.***
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Long Term Verdict: 2008 Scion xB
Comparison: 2010 Kia Soul vs. 2009 Nissan Cube vs. 2009 Scion xB
SCION XD
BASE PRICE:$15,400*BODY TYPE:Wagon
WHAT'S NEW:Low-key but high-utility, the front-drive xD adds VSC stability/traction control to its 2010 standards column and gets a new, even more feature-packed 160-watt Pioneer audio system plus a 200-watt Alpine upgrade. Like its mono-spec Scion kin, the xD boasts a long list of included features and an expansive array of dedicated accessories.
COOL FACT:New Alpine sound package offers an optional plug-in navigation system with voice guidance.
SUM UP:Looks sporty. Doesn't drive that way.**
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SMART FORTWO
BASE PRICE RANGE:$12,635-$18,635BODY TYPE:Coupe, convertible
WHAT'S NEW:Nothing. smart reports features, options, pricing should remain the same for 2010, which isn't surprising, considering its relative success here (20,000 sold in its first 10 months). The EPA found the fortwo to have the best fuel efficiency of non-hybrid cars available in the U.S.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Euro Tuner Brabus lowers the car 10mm, fits stickier tires, firmer suspension, sportier exhaust and visual upgrades.
SUM UP:Small wonder.**
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First Drive: 2008 Smart fortwo
SPYKER C8 AILERON
BASE PRICE RANGE:$209,990-$219,990BODY TYPE:Coupe
WHAT'S NEW:Spyker's low-production-volume sports car is powered by Audi-sourced 400-hp, 4.2L V-8. Exterior designed to reflect the company's aviation heritage, down to the turbine-inspired Rotorblade wheels. Spyker uses aluminum space-frame chassis, has a 150mm-longer wheelbase and 155mm-wider track than its C8 Laviolette and C8 Spyder.
COOL FACT:Want to follow the progress as your Spyker's being built? Watch any time via the company's dedicated Spycam Webcam.
SUM UP:When everyone has an Aston. (Not Rated)
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First Drive: 2009 Spyker C8 Aileron
SUBARU IMPREZA/WRX/STI
BASE PRICE RANGE:$18,325-$36,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan, hatchback
WHAT'S NEW:Minor exterior detail changes to grille/headlamp treatments plus package revamps headed by a new, high-content 2.5i Special Edition model highlight the 2010 menu remix. Four distinct output levels (2.5i, 170 hp; 2.5GT, 224 hp; WRX, 265 hp; and STI, 305 hp) ensure there's an Impreza to meet any driver's demands.
BEST BUY:Go for the new 2.5i Premium Special Edition Package (Premium and All-weather Packages plus a moonroof and foglamps).
SUM UP:Unique, which is good. And bad.
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Long Term Verdict: 2008 Subaru Impreza WRX
First Test: 2009 Subaru Impreza WRX STI SPT
Smart, Fun, Fast: Sport Compact Car Comparison
SUBARU LEGACY
BASE PRICE RANGE:$20,690-$31,690BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Completely redesigned, 2010 Legacy and Outback now has more style and space plus even better handling. Lineup (2.5/2.5i/2.5GT/3.6R) also offers a choice of more potent boxer engines and upgraded transmissions-including a new CVT on the 2.5i. As a final touch, they're also priced lower than their 2009 counterparts.
COOL FACT:Repositioned turbo/intercooler installation on the GT engine yields 30-percent-quicker throttle response.
SUM UP:Better in every way. Except the styling.***
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First Drive: 2010 Subaru Legacy
First Look: 2010 Subaru Legacy
SUZUKI KIZASHI
BASE PRICE RANGE:$20,000-$25,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Under the Kizashi's hood is an all-new 2.4L four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing that Suzuki promises will out-gun any other four-banger in its class. To live up to that claim, the engine will have to make more than 200 hp. Suzuki also expects the car to easily crest 30 mpg with help from underbody trays that smooth out airflow under the car. For those who want more, the company is already developing a hybrid model and may add a more powerful engine in the future if there's a demand for one.
COOL FACT:Suzuki's trick i-AWD is standard equipment.
SUM UP:World thinks small. Suzuki goes big. (Not Rated)
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First Look: 2010 Suzuki Kizashi
SUZUKI SX4
BASE PRICE RANGE:$14,200-$17,500*BODY TYPE:Sedan, hatchback, wagon
WHAT'S NEW:Numerous changes to multifaceted FWD/AWD workhorse, which adds a five-door SX4 Sportback to the existing Sedan and Crossover. All share new, more refined 150-hp/2.0L I-4 and offer 6M or CVT trans choices. Revised instrumentation, restyled console, navigation upgrades.
COOL FACT:The SX4's slick nav system gains Lane Assist, 3-D graphics, Bluetooth on-screen text messaging, and real-time traffic/flight information.
SUM UP:Takes the sting out of buying on a budget.**
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First Drive: 2010 Suzuki SX4 Sportback
Quick Drive: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport with Convenience Package
Newcomers: 2008 Suzuki SX4 Sport
TESLA ROADSTER
BASE PRICE RANGE:$101,500-$121,000BODY TYPE:Convertible
WHAT'S NEW:Second-gen all-electric Tesla Roadster gets new, higher-performance variant, Roadster Sport, which has an extra 40 hp, adjustable suspension, performance tires on black wheels. Suspension on standard Roadster revised for better handling; interior has matured with a lockable glovebox, revised center console, optional full leather.
COOL FACT:Roadsters will be joined by a seven-seat sedan, the Model S, with deliveries beginning in late 2011.
SUM UP:It won't save the planet.**1/2
READ MORE:
Getting In Gear: 2009 Tesla Roadster
First Drive: 2008 Tesla Roadster
TOYOTA AVALON
BASE PRICE RANGE:$28,700-$36,000*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Except for adding Sandy Beach Metallic to its exterior color palette, Toyota's full-size FWD family sedan is unchanged for 2010. While the XL/XLS/Limited trims provide progressively broader takes on the Avalon's generous feature sets, all variants share a smooth, torquey 268-hp V-6, a 6A trans, and the same comprehensive set of safety features.
BEST BUY:Mid-level XLS nets welcome standards like leather and a CD changer while adding navigation and JBL sound package options.
SUM UP:When better Buicks are built...***
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First Look: 2005 Toyota Avalon
TOYOTA CAMRY
BASE PRICE RANGE:$20,145-29,795BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Modest nose/tail/trim tweaks grace all versions (base/LX/SE/XLE/Hybrid) of Toyota's perpetually popular midsize sedan. Stability/traction control are now standard across the line; and while the optional 3.5L V-6 carries over, the base four goes from 2.3L to 2.5L and boosts both power and mpg stats. The Hybrid also gets new gauges and interior fabric.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Now with 179 ponies underhood, crisper handling, and enhanced option choices, an I-4 SE also ranks as the Best Buy.
SUM UP:The Wal-Mart of family cars.***
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Comparison: 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid vs. 2009 Toyota Camry Hybrid
Quick Test:2008 Toyota Camry LE (PZEV)
TOYOTA COROLLA
BASE PRICE RANGE:$16,100-$19,610BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:All-new for 2009, compact Corolla (base/S/LX/XLE/XRS) moves into 2010 with carryover pricing while gaining standard stability/traction control on all models. The XRS swaps the 132-hp four used in other Corollas for a 158-hp upgrade and includes cruise control plus performance items like four-wheel discs and 215/45R17 tires.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Extra muscle and functional upgrades make the XRS an obvious pick for enthusiasts of any stripe.
SUM UP:The Wal-Mart of compact cars.**1/2
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Quick Test: 2009 Toyota Corolla XRS
Comparison: 2008 Honda Civic vs. 2008 Mazda3 vs. 2008 Subaru Impreza vs. 2009 Toyota Corolla
First Drive: 2009 Toyota Corolla
TOYOTA MATRIX
BASE PRICE RANGE:$17,300-$22,710BODY TYPE:Wagon
WHAT'S NEW:Redesigned last year, compact crossover based on Corolla mechanicals adds standard stability/traction control for MY2010. While entry-level Matrix gets the 1.8L engine, the better-appointed S/XRS duo comes with more potent 2.4L, fully independent suspension, and 5A trans option instead of base model's 4A unit.
BEST BUY:S still marks the sweet spot in the Matrix line, netting more power, enhanced features, and the choice of FWD or AWD.
SUM UP:Wal-Mart tries to be Target. Fails.**1/2
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TOYOTA PRIUS
BASE PRICE RANGE:$22,750-$28,020BODY TYPE:Hatch
WHAT'S NEW:Completely redone for 2010, Gen III Prius comes in one "grade" but five trim levels plus selected options that allow buyers choices to match their budgets. Bigger inside and even better appointed, the 2010 Prius also boasts the latest version of Toyota's Hybrid Synergy System that delivers more power and performance with even better fuel economy.
BEST BUY:Put your money on a Level II (or Level III, if you absolutely must have the optional navigation/solar roof).
SUM UP:The benchmark hybrid.****
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Comparison: 2010 Honda Insight vs. 2010 Toyota Prius
TOYOTA YARIS
BASE PRICE RANGE:$13,200-$16,900*BODY TYPE:Hatch, sedan
WHAT'S NEW:All versions of the Yaris gain standard stability control in an otherwise carryover season for Toyota's subcompact econorunner. Despite its diminutive exterior scale, this well-built front-driver is surprisingly roomy inside and can be optioned up to create a very livable and affordable-if less than scintillating-daily commuter.
BEST BUY:Low price of entry makes it easy-and prudent-to add both the Convenience and Power Packages to either Yaris model.
SUM UP:Euro-cute style meets boring Toyota chassis.**1/2
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Comparison: 2007 Honda Fit vs. 2007 Nissan Versa vs. 2007 Toyota Yaris
VOLKSWAGEN CC
BASE PRICE RANGE:$28,000-$40,950*BODY TYPE:Sedan
WHAT'S NEW:Introduced last year, CC rolls into 2010 with only a few changes. It swaps conventional for twin-clutch shifting in its automatic, aka DSG. VR6 models get new interior wood trim, and all iterations have standard Premium VIII touch-screen radio and Bluetooth connectivity. New rear badging denotes CC engine and drivetrain status.
COOL FACT:CC's four sport seats are ergonomically designed to improve person-machine interaction and long-haul comfort.
SUM UP:When you can't afford a CLS Mercedes.***1/2
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Quick Test: 2009 Volkswagen CC
First Drive: 2009 Volkswagen Passat CC
VOLKSWAGEN EOS
BASE PRICE:$32,500*BODY TYPE:Convertible
WHAT'S NEW:Subtle, effective interior changes include new instrument cluster and leather-wrapped steering wheel, and updated Premium VIII touch-screen radio and Bluetooth as standard. To help differentiate between Comfort and Lux trim packages, latter now sports chrome louvers on front grille and optional 18-in. alloy wheels with sport suspension.
DRIVER'S CHOICE:Chrome-enhanced premium level with bigger wheels and sport suspension for high-styling fun.
SUM UP:Built to be seen in, but no one is.**
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