From the already amiable feedback from consumers, Toyota left a lot of expecting spectators on the lookout with its plan to introduce a newer design of the RAV4 for the 2013 model year.  The newer models would then be available as electric vehicles as a result of Toyota’s partnership with Tesla Motors.

The engine would of course be still as powerful, but the several add-ons have left a lot of enthusiasts and hobbyists drooling for more.  And who wouldn’t?  The new RAV4 boasts a six speaker-stereo with a single CD player, USB port, and iPod/Bluetooth connectivity.  The Entune multimedia system would also be built with the Sports and Limited models.  This would allow the owners to have a whopping three-year unlimited subscription to smartphone apps and services that can be used to have more fun roadtrips with the 2012 RAV 4.  The Entune, for instance, gives a better access to Pandora Internet radio, etc.

The impressive points for the car extend below the hood.  RAV4’s newer model is equipped with a powerful  engine with optional all-wheel-drive upgrade.  The engine is capable of towing 3,500 pounds when equipped properly, as opposed to the 1,500 pound trailer rating.  The 2.5 liter four-cylinder engine of the car produces 179 horsepower and 172 lb-ft torque.

With a more flexible budget, the engine can be upgraded to have 3.5 liter V6 that is capable of producing 269 horsepower and 246 pounds-feet torque.  The V6 engine is built to have five speed automatic controls, which is more powerful compared to the base four-speed automatic transmission of the four cylinder engine.

Several upgrades may also be installed to enhance the performance of the car – the Downhill Assist Control and the Hill-Start Assist control. The first option has been proven efficient in riding on off-road trails, while the second upgrade is effective in holding the car firmly for two to three seconds.  Both of these was highly regarded as the best features of the new RAV4, as they can provide accidents and potential harm from sudden stop, jerking, etc.

In this vein, Toyota also takes pride with the star safety system embedded in the 2012 RAV4.  Passengers can well be transported safely from one destination to another with the enhanced vehicle stability control, anti-lock brake system, traction control, brake assist and electronic brake-force distribution features.

RAV4’s interior has been the object of gripes from some reviewers, but this detail is too small as compared to what the new RAV4 can offer.  Overall, the 2012 RAV4 can be said to be perfect for those who are looking for a family-oriented ride without exhausting too much of their savings.

What attracts car enthusiasts the most is the vehicle’s flashy appeal.  Other SUVs may only be overshadowed by its overpowering exterior design and shape.  It is then surprising that the Cadillac Escalade has been named as the top ranking luxury SUV in 2012.  Suffice it to say, no other SUV out there can come close to the cachet of this ride.

The 2012 Cadillac Escalade beats up other luxury SUVs when it comes to the aesthetics and appeal.  Nevertheless, this ride is more than just a pretty face.  Beyond its bold, rocking look hides an engine that is equally revered for its impeccable performance.

There is no room for subtlety in the 2012 Cadillac Escalade – not even under the hood.  The base model of this vehicle is built with a 6.2 liter V8 engine that can produce a whopping 403 horsepower from the six speed automatic transmission.  Some may think twice about having big powerful engines that consumes too much fuel, but General Motors built the Escalade with a cylinder deactivation system.  This technology works by shutting four of the eight cylinders when they are not needed (mostly during cruising).

While this engine is deemed amiable for some, reviews often express whinge on the unrefined roar from the exhaust. The rumble may be indicative of its power but some users wish the muscular V8 can be a little quieter.

On a more positive note, the 2012 Cadillac Escalade surprisingly handles well despite of it being a large truck-based SUV.  This may probably be the result of the installation of optional road-sensing suspension coined to as Magnetic Ride Control.

Aside from this upgrade, users with budget that can go a little farther can opt to have the all-wheel drive model instead of purchasing the rear-wheel drive base Escalade.  The all-wheel drive enhanced handling especially when coupled with the remarkably long wheel base.  Given that the vehicle weighs almost three tons, makers of the ride have put in a lot of braking power for a secured and controlled stop.

In this vein, it is expected that the 2012 Cadillac Escalade passe crash tests of the federal government and earne four out of five stars.  Safety then becomes one of the ride’s strengths to boot.

Reviews on 2012 Cadillac Escalade however have been very particular about some of its irreconcilable drawbacks. The third row seat, for one, appears uncomfortable for the passengers in the middle.  At times  this could be removed to have more cargo space.

The vehicle also falls short when ridden on tighter roads.  The car is unwieldy and difficult to handle.  Simply put, this SUV is still lagging behind when it comes to certain refinements – dynamics and quality of materials in consideration. Reviews were very clear: there is no question that the Escalade is merely for those who are only after and brash SUVs.

Infiniti EX35’s limited space for cargo and passengers makes it a poor option for family use, but its sporty appeal and stylish aesthetics coupled with high class interior makes it a sound investment.  Although the second row is tight, couples and small families may still see this vehicle as a good luxurious find.  The vehicle is just as refined under the hood when power and handling is underscored.

Road trips would be pretty enjoyable with this nimble and agile ride. Thanks to the 3.5 liter V6 engine that produces 297 horsepower, the Infiniti EX35 became one of the most powerful cars among the pool of its equivalent SUVs in the market.  The quick acceleration from the seven-speed automatic transmission became its token for positive feedback from most reviews.  Although there exists a gripe on its powertrain and loud engine, it still not enough to mask the upbeat handling of this ride.

Car shopping for the 2012 Infiniti EX35 lays out four choices of trims, including the base and Journey trims – both of which have optional all-wheel drive.  The 2012 model of the EX35 features standard HomeLink which can be installed and operated with compatible garage doors and home security system.  Just think of coming home with the garage door automatically opening thus scratching hassles from faulty remotes.

Whichever trim one may choose, the EX35 can still have an average 17/24 mpg in the city/highway.  These digits are still amiable, but competing models may have higher EPA-estimated ratings for fuel efficiency.  Those who choose to invest on the 2012 Infiniti EX35 should then set a large budget for gasoline money each year.

This fact aside, reviews still contain multiple thumbs up for the handsome and sleek exterior of the EX35.  Clean and sharp lines characterize the design of the car, and its streamlining is pretty impressive. Automotive journalists give a good rating for the aesthetic of the car.  Yet some are still left unsatisfied with its interior.

Superb fit and finish comes with premium standard features for the Journey trim of the EX35.  This would include a power tilt and telescopic steering wheel and Bluetooth.  The navigation system is also competitive in that it operates with an 11-speaker Bose audio system. Even the base model features superb entertainment equipment like satellite radio and USB ports.  A rear-view camera is also built with the car.  Leather-appointed seats fill up the interior, but these are not enough to leave some the journalists and reviewers impressed.

The major whinge on this car is its cramped seats that cannot make anyone comfortable – even the short or average-sized passengers.  There is not much headroom for tall drivers thereby compromising the rear visibility. This being said, the 2012 Infiniti EX35 may just be another SUV made for fun on the road and not really for functionality.

Sold at $28,000, with specs that potentially have come at par with the big competitors in the market, Nissan wasn’t able to taste a bitter failure after they have set the target production rate at 100,000 units per year.  Few years after, the investment that amounted to almost four hundred million euros did not go to waste.  And while MG Rove has collapsed and Jaguar, Peugeot and Vauxhaull was met with whinges from the consumers, the Qashqai serves as a proof that Japanese automakers can still get a lot from investing heavily in Britain.

What could be accounted for this success may be the amiable specifications of the car.  During its dawn in the market, consumers were presented with four engine options that ranged from the 1.5 liter and 2.0 liter diesel to the 1.6 liter and 2.0-liter gasoline models.  The performance of each engine type may not be compared to the ultra-fast vehicles made in Italy and other parts of Europe, but a closer look on the amount of power each engine can produce can open doors for enjoyment behind the wheels.  Being more of a compact SUV (or a hatchback) than a road giant, the 115 horsepower from the 1.6 litre engine and the 104 horsepower produced from the 1.5-litre diesel is on the impressive side.  After all, car owners have the option to pay a notch higher to upgrade the 1.6 litre engine which can produce up to 128 horsepower.  And if there’s a need for more punch and power, the 2.0 petrol/diesel can be bought to enjoy 138-148 horsepower on the road – an upgrade that is only available for an automatic gearbox.

Other than the fairly amusing power under the hood, the Qashqai takes its edge from its refinement on the road. Despite the slight sound from the wind friction on the oversized door mirrors, drivers of the car entertained by the discreet contained sound of the suspension – even on rough terrains. The smaller diesel engine may be quite grumbly downtown, but it quiets down when the car takes on a steady cruise on highways.

What makes this possible are the chucky tires and supple suspension that allows it to “float” smoothly even on bumpy landscapes at any speed.   The only drawback to Nissan’s quest to provide a comfy ride through a lofty stance is the amount of body lean felt by the passengers through bends.  Then again, drivers can enjoy road trips in curvy trails because the lean is progressive, and the steering wheel remains controllable and direct.

TopGear is also all-praises on this vehicle for its cool looks that’s understated but distinctive – exactly what cars need these days.  The quality says it all – soft-touch materials that cover the dashtop along with sturdy plastics that makes up the rest of the fascia, instantly makes the Qashqai a breath of fresh air that had been long missed since the Merc A-Class.

Admittedly, the Enclave is relatively not nimble on the road.  But the luxurious and welcoming interior is undoubtedly remarkable.  During its launch, the 2012 Buick Enclave surprised many spectators with its quiet and refined interior that used to be seen only on hefty expensive SUVs.  For an economical ride, it was with great pride that manufacturers received the highest praise when the upscale interior was compared to that of Lexus RX 350.

In many articles published by automotive writers, this ride was revered for being the top choice for fuel-efficient and economic but expensive-looking ride.  In fact, several reviews have included it in the list of 2012 Best Three Row Midsize SUV for Families.  Thanks to its spacious interior and unsullied safety features, the Enclave became the top suggestion in hauling families and transporting large group of passengers.

Despite the impressive interiors and cargo space, the 2012 Buick Enclave still became the subject of major whinges especially when the performance of the engine is emphasized.  True enough, this SUV can accommodate up to eight passengers with smooth handling to boot, but the car is more inclined to give relaxation than thrill.

The engine of the Enclave is a 3.6 liter V6 that can produce 288 horsepower.  The base model is equipped with six speed automatic transmission with standard front wheel drive.  Available trims may have optional all-wheel drive that can enhance the handling of the car.  Front-wheel drive gets 17/24 mpg on city while the optional all-wheel upgrade on the trims gets 16/22 mpg.

Compared to other SUVs in the market, the Enclave doesn’t have adrenaline-inducing speed.  But the engine serves efficiently amidst many situations and promises to be able to tow up to 4,500 pounds.  The engine may not be enough to make the ride agile, but the power produced is ample to make the handling and acceleration of the car more amiable.  Thus, recent reviews published online still give a competitive 8.0 rating for the performance of the 2012 Buick Enclave.

This humble ride has also been applauded for earning high safety ratings.  Enclave’s 2012 version is even more impressive in this aspect with the standard hill-hold and an enhanced brake override system – a technology responsible in cutting power to the engine when drivers step on the gas and brake pedals are stepped on at the same time.

2012 Buick Enclave can be availed in four trims: base, convenience, leather, and premium. Each trim can have optional upgrades like the all-wheel drive, but the number of choices is not vast.

Then again, no matter how the 2012 Buick Enclave lags behind in revving up rides on the road, it makes up in safety with its four out of five stars earned from fool-proof protection in frontal crash and rollover protection.

What could be car enthusiasts be looking forward to for the new model of Outlander? The MMC promises that the new generation of this vehicle carries the same dimensions as the predecessors, and still equipped by the signature designs of other models. But the interior is revised to come with high-quality materials and ergonomic space for comfort. According to some of those who took a sneak peak, there is a noticeable improvement on this aspect of the car.

Given that MMC has targeted the European market, the new Outlander will be initially sold with two drive units: the 2.0 MIVEC petrol and 2.2 MIVEC clean diesels which can be available for the two or four wheel drive models.  The company is still on the verge of deciding whether or not to introduce the new 6-speed automatic transmission to their consumers in Europe, but the fate of other units in other parts of the world has been decided.  What accounts for this turnout of features is the quest to have a ride that can have an Eco-friendly driving system – that is, a technology that can notify the drivers when it comes to fuel combustion level and any other factors that affects the efficiency of driving.

Alongside, the Japanese makers are also looking into the possibility of adding a plug-in hybrid version of the car together with the four-wheel drive model.  The setup then would include a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine that works with two electric motors that produces at least 81 horsepower.  This kind of technology is deemed to have a range of 800 km per charge and a fuel economy rating of 1.7 liters for every 100 km.

Together with the consciousness of the makers in environmental protection, reviews on the 2013 Outlander point to positive feedback from the car enthusiasts.  While the new model is smaller than the spacious predecessors, this ride is meant to better comply with the time.  Praises are all in for the harmonious balance of safety features that include forward collision mitigation system, active cruise control and lane departure warning system. The decreased environmental impact (target emissions of below 3g/km) does not necessarily compromise the performance of driving.

Mitsubishi asserts that the new Outlander ought to have a drivetrain for Europe that is preferably 2.0 liter that can produce 148 horsepower with a continuous variable transmission.  The makers are also looking into the possibility of introducing a 2.4 liter base engine also with a CVT that can have a slight difference in performance.

Amidst these myriad of promises these few features currently garner the most thumbs up from experts – the adoption of a power tail-gate, full third row seating and a flat floor cargo area.  The tilt and telescoping steering column, Super HiD Wide Vision xenon headlamps are not bad ideas either.

The base model for the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is expected to have 118.9 inch wheelbase which is relatively longer. Its front road has a dimension of 67.8 inches while the bottom road measures around 67.4 inches, both of which makes up the balanced size of the ride and puts forth its notable performance.

Given that in 2010, the Chevrolet Traverse become famous with its great performance, the 2013 model boasts with strength produced by engines of varying trims.  As of this writing, the Traverse has trim levels including the base trim, the LS and the LT.

The base model can haul eight passengers safely and features a set of stylish 17-inched steel wheels. The second and third row bench seats can be folded to house more passengers and have more space for cargo.  The unit may be purchased with all the power accessories, along with a nifty six speaker-audio systems, CD/MP3 player, and satellite radio.

LT, on the other hand, is the mid-level trim of the Traverse.  It has created good impression among many car lovers and enthusiasts with its two versions, 1LT and 2LT.  The first type features heated side mirrors, brash 18-inch alloy wheels, functional parking sensors for the rear and leather-wrapped steering wheel.  The 2LT is equally amiable.  It has added functions such as the automatic climate control with three zones, rear-view mirrors with integrated camera, and a rocking audio system with 10 Bose speakers.

With a little more budget, those who are in for a safe and powerful ride may opt to go for the LTZ trim.  The leather upholstery is definitely whistle-worthy especially with the heated and ventilated front seats.  It is easier to get the car up and running with the remote ignition.  With the 20-inch wheels and high-tech navigation system along with the DVD entertainment system at the rear seats, road trips wouldn’t be as fun without them.

The base model and the LT trim come with a pretty affable engine.  The SUV has a 3.6 liter V6 that can produce 281 horsepower and 266 pound feet torque. The highest level and most powerful trim, on the other hand, can produce 288 horsepower and 270 pound feet torque from the dual exhaust.

Some may feel that the vehicle falls short on performance as the only available transmission is a six speed automatic with manual shift control. There may be options between having a front-wheel or all-wheel drive, but compared to other SUVs, it is clear that the 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is introduced for those who are on the lookout for safe and convenient transportation.

Generally, the Traverse can be said to exude subtlety. This humble SUV is revered for its safety features and fuel efficiency – something that’s wise and practical with today’s tight economy.

Compared to the crossovers Land Rover became famous for, the 2012 Evoque does not have much “juice.” But lo and behold, its 2.0 liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine is enough to exhaust a remarkable 240 horsepower that makes it one of the most nimble SUV in its line. The Evoque may not have beaten the power of Mercedes-Benz GLK or the Audi Q5 (also with V6 engines) but there’s more about this compact luxury vehicle.

Its distinction with other cars from Land Rover sets the Evoque apart and apparently earns its spotlight. The 2012 model is actually the first one to have the two doors while being the smallest vehicle the automaker has ever produced. There’s of course a four-door base model available for those who are after utility and space. Availing the coupe two-door body style, however, brings out amiable twists and provides the much-needed diversion in the market.

Aside from the appearance, the difference between the coupe body and four-door base model are their trims. The smaller Evoque is available in Pure and Dynamic Trims, while the four-door configuration comes with Pure, Prestige and Dynamic trims. Price also becomes the final base of decision for most buyers – the base model is worth $44,000 while the ore compact two-door has a hefty $45,000 price tag.

Then again, car journalists were clear in expressing their awe on the great workmanship applied on any levels of trim. The dashboard of the car are covered with stitched vinyl fabric. Behind the wheel, modern and elegant instruments grace the view, including the 5” colored LCD driver information centre. Through this feature, car owners may spare an additional $1,750 for the hard disk-based GPS navigation system that works with an 8” HD touch-screen display.

Road trips would never be as boring with the 825-watt audio system that comes with jukebox, CD player and Am/Fm/HD/Sirius tuner. The best thing about it is the dual deice Bluetooth Audio streaming with iPod control made possible through USB connection.

Thus, no matter how expensive this Luxury SUV is, a lot of consumers are wooed to have it for their selves. After all, the off-road capabilities of the Land Rover Evoque can beat any price named for the car.

The car’s appearance also comes as a plus in that the profile of Evoque is very sporty. The windshield is steeply raked, paving the way for a low roofline that extends downward to the rear of the SUV. The 19-inch wheels are highly prominent with the arches and “muscular” appeal of the Evoque’s body. The four-door configuration is slightly taller than the coupe, (1.2” higher), but both cars run with 104.8” wheelbase.

The two models also have the same 171.5-171.9 inch length and 77.4 width. For most car enthusiasts, the coupe is far more striking than the four-door base model because of the cleaner profile. When it comes to performance, however, choosing becomes daunting.

True to the promise of the automaker, the 2012 Evoque dominates the class with its Terrain Response system that allows for a more convenient change in the powertrain and responses from the suspension on any road condition, although most car owners wouldn’t drive this Luxury vehicle to rough roads over small boulders.

Various reviews authored by car journalists noted the ease of driving experienced with this crossover. The acceleration was described as “preppy” and the handling was guaranteed to be agile. The ignition of the car itself struck test drivers like a firewall. Some commented, on a shallow note, that the sound of the engine mimics that of a cardboard box but some contested this view and even claimed that it is somehow engaging. The crisp sound, however, is unrefined especially for a luxury SUV.

The drawbacks of the car extend to the compromise of some utility. The interior of the RDX may be spacious, but the 61 cu. ft. cargo is inferior compared to its competitors that are built with adjustable cargo tracks and rear parcel shelf.

The automaker, on the other hand, takes on serious defence and note that the 2010 Acura RDX targets young urban male, who are practically in for an unnerving ride in exchange for style impact. The performance is also highlighted, well masking the fuel efficiency factor which should be the main consideration for most buyers in the first place.

The car’s performance, however, seems to put it all together. The 2012 model comes with a 2.3 litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine that produces remarkable 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft torque. The five-speed automatic transmission built with paddle shifters comes with the base model. Other trims, though, are available that makes it possible for the buyers to choose between a front-wheel drive and advanced Super-Handling All-Wheel-Drive system – this feature allows for an instant transfer of torque among the wheels, to improve the grip and enhance handling.

Acura RDX’s base standard model comes with standard stability control, xenon headlights and a rear-view camera. The interior is graced with leather seating, heated seats and 260-watt audio system. Drivers may enjoy the perks of having a navigation system that conveniently gives real-time traffic reporting, sun-sensing climate control system and enhancement of the sound system.

In spite of these features, Acura’s sale seems to take on a downward direction which probably tells something about the mistake of the planning product group. Acura then revives its dignity and had the car enthusiasts on the constant look out for the 2013 model – the epitome of the RDX’s about face.

The 2013 Acura RDX is expected to have a different take on styling. Being a larger model, the 2013 RDX is viewed to mimic the aesthetics of the MDX, but not wider than the 2012 model. The wheels will be made to be out about an inch for both sides. It may not give improvements on the handling, but this technique is expected to stabilize the drive on the highways.

New shock setups will be included to enhance comfort – with profile 235/60/18 tires. Given that the wheels are distanced with one inch a half more, the center of gravity will also be greatly improved.

Still, Acura RDX has more things to prove. Hopefully, the 2013 model would’t disappoint.

The Sports Mode is a good place to start.  This feature well supplements Normal Eco and EV drive modes of the full hybrid powertrain.  It gets better as the EV mode can now be activated with a separate switch.

Evolution on styling cue that has been first incorporated with the CT 200h and GS model ranges can be accounted for the powerful commanding road presence of the new generation of RX in Europe.  This improvement includes the built-in new Hybrid System Indicator design characterized by the clearly delineated Charge, Eco and Power Zones. True to the promise of a more intelligent technology, the ambient illumination impressively alters according to different driving conditions or adjustments on the drive mode.

As a supplement to these features, the Sport Mode of the Lexus RX 450h is known to improve the performance and dynamic abilities of the ride. As it was particularly made to deliver increased electric motor power, this mode maximize the car’s performance and agility by not only modifying the throttle and Electric Power Steering for a quicker response to inputs but also by providing less intrusive operation on the Vehicle Stability Control and Traction Control systems. So what does this do? Simple. This technology allows the car owners to have the most of Lexus’s full extended dynamic abilities.

Though the automatic wheel drive version of the car gives a bit more pep than the four wheel drive, experts found the 4WD is a more fuel efficient choice. Compared to the 30 mpg of the AWD in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, the 4WD remarkably achieves 32 mpg in the city with similar mpg on the highway.

Alongside the many improvements, the new Lexus also carries in itself significant revisions on the hybrid drive power train to reduce the emission of carbon Dioxide at a considerable level. To benchmark its introduction in the UK this summer, the developers have aimed to bag the best-performing diesel recognition for this new generation of hybrid vehicle. Thus, the car is expected to be far more fuel efficient than the preceding models.

Not being a far cry from UK’s line of eco-friendly rides, the new Lexus RX 450h also boost with impressive exterior and interior styling that follows the latest aim of the developers to have L-finesse design philosophy. As a concrete proof, the vehicle is designed with a dual zone Crossover Cockpit that puts forth enhanced safety of the passengers along with comfort and pleasure in driving.

Suffice to say, the third generation of Lexus defies the issues of cost of ownership along with deterioration of the environment. And so without necessarily compromising the standards of luxury, the new RX 450h is an addition to the hallmark of quality and refinement.