Launched in the mid-’90s, the Audi A4 quickly proved a favorite among luxury-car buyers thanks to its handsome, well-finished cabin, sharp handling and available Quattro all-wheel drive. The Audi holds the distinction of single-handedly reviving the Audi brand after its big sales slump some two decades ago.

Tight panel gaps, high-quality materials and firm, comfortable seating give the interior the proper European ambience, while a supple ride and willing performance make the Audi a great road trip choice. Many shoppers forget how small the Audi is until they get inside—or try the back seat. At just 175 inches long, the 1996 Audi wasn’t much longer (or any larger inside) than a Toyota Corolla.

In the years since, Audi is grown only about ten inches in length and though it has a wider, more spacious interior the back-seat space remains too tight for taller adults. Although those core characteristics have been part of the Audi personality since day one, this Audi — which has traditionally been available in sedan, wagon and convertible body styles — has become increasingly polished with each successive generation.

No matter what year you’re looking at, though, the Audi A4 will provide athletic performance and a comfortable and inviting cabin. Add in the appeal of all-wheel drive (a serious asset for those who live in inclement parts of the country) and it’s easy to see why the Audi used to become a prime choice for an entry-level luxury car.

When the Audi was first introduced in the U.S., it included a 172-horsepower, 2.6-liter V-6 and five-speed manual transmission or optional five-speed automatic (with Tiptronic manual control on some models). The Audi A4 performance with this engine is adequate but a little wheezy—especially with quattro (all-wheel drive); to its credit, it sounded good and was very smooth.

The second year the Audi got a stronger 193-hp, 2.8-liter V-6 that moves it with more authority, but the new base engine, a 150-horsepower, 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (the Audi A4 1.8T) ended up being the real star—offering a more sprightly feel than the V-6 because of its accessible torque, along with better fuel economy.

The Audi A4 Today

The best-selling Audi is now even more attractive: Audi is refreshing the 2012 Audi A4 family. New solutions for the engines, chassis and infotainment are being added to the Audi Sedan, Avant, allroad quattro and S4 models, making them even more sporty and efficient.

The new 2012 Audi A4 is the first in a new generation of Audis (A5, R8 included) that have learned how to ride; a wonderfully engineered bit of kit that still manages to be just that little bit boring. So, so much better than Audi of old, the new car is quiet, comfy and composed – especially on long motorway hauls.

There’s so much more space than the old model the new Audi A4 feels like it comes from the class above, excellent engines, providing performance and efficiency in both diesel and petrol guises, also mean there’s something for almost everyone here. A supremely competent car, the Audi A4 never loses composure and loves tasty back roads.

New Audi A4

While most automakers couldn’t crank out car-based crossover SUVs fast enough, Kia chose to utilize traditional body-on-frame construction, an available V8 engine and low-range gearing for the KIA models fitted with four-wheel drive. This approach gave the BKIA respectable off-road performance and towing capacity, but sales were dismal.

The KIA Borrego itself was a pretty decent SUV but even assuming you find one as a used-vehicle purchase, we’d recommend staying away. The KIA incredibly short production life will likely mean trouble getting parts down the road. Strange as it may seem, the 2009 KIA offers good value and surprising quality.

Though the construction seems out of date, some the KIA review says the Borrego follows the Kia playbook, offering modern features, amenities and interior quality along with a generous warranty — all at a low price.

The KIA Borrego exterior styling is described as generic and rather nondescript, though refined, it seems that Kia managed to locate and include all of the common sport utility vehicle trappings. Charming yet understated and low-profile, the KIA is a true member of the Kia family; it lacks visual punch and assertiveness.

While the KIA look is a bit played out, the Kia manages to remain anonymous enough that it’s not likely to turn off many prospective buyers based on looks alone. As for the KIA Borrego styling, designers used restrained taste and seemingly found inspiration in other competing SUVs.

Under the Hood KIA Borrego

The 2009 KIA was available in two trim levels: LX and EX. Both models were available with a choice of two engines: a 3.8-liter V6 that cranked out 276 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, or a 4.6-liter V8 that produced 337 hp and 323 lb-ft of torque.

Transmissions varied depending on engine choice, with the KIA V6 models getting a five-speed automatic and V8 models a six-speed automatic. The base KIA Borrego LX and EX were two-wheel drive, with four-wheel drive available as an option. Properly equipped, the KIA V8 could tow a healthy 7,500 pounds.

But what about the KIA fuel economy? Well, the KIA Borrego two-wheel-drive model’s 18 mpg combined rating isn’t great when compared to smaller SUVs, but it stacks up well within the midsize class. While the KIA V8 is recommended for its power, lower fuel economy as compared to the V6 lessens its appeal.

According to the EPA, the KIA Borrego 2WD model nets 17/21 mpg city/highway with the V6 engine and 15/22 with the V8. 4WD models net 16/21 and 15/20 with the V6 and V8, respectively. Some 2009 KIA reviews says, for those who need an affordable truck-based SUV with room for a family, the KIA just might do the trick but others may want to look elsewhere for more fuel-efficient, smoother-riding models.

Overall, test drivers say driving the 2009 KIA is pleasant, but there’s a major caveat — its truck-based chassis makes the ride seem harsh compared to the competition. Still, the KIA Borrego boasts two powerful engines, a very good tow rating and capable off-road skills. The Kia pricing started from $26,245 – $32,995.

KIA Borrego Video Review

With the announcement of the sixth generation 2012 BMW 335i, the benchmark by which all sport sedans are measured just got raised. The pioneering history of the 3 Series serves as inspiration for the new BMW 335i, whose powerful styling represents a fresh interpretation and conscientious development of traditional BMW design cues.

The 2012 BMW 335i will not only set new standards for performance and handling but also for luxury, technology and efficiency as well. Outside, the BMW 335i gets new front and rear fascias, as well as standard Xenon headlamps. The new BMW 335i fascias create slightly longer overhangs.

The new 2012 BMW 335i face, with elongated headlights reaching along as far as the BMW kidney grille, emphasizes the BMW 3 New 2012 sense of width and strengthens its athletic overall profile. Inside the new BMW 335i, the rear passengers will appreciate the noticeable increase in space made possible by the larger dimensions.

The sixth generation of the new 3 Series has grown moderately in size compared to its predecessor, with its wide track (front + 37 mm/1.46 in., rear + 47 mm/1.85 in.) particularly prominent, and the BMW 335i length (+ 93 mm/3.66 in.) and wheelbase (+ 50 mm/1.96 in.) also accentuates its sporting allure.

The BMW 335i has a new 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder with a single twin-scroll turbocharger, high-precision fuel injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase, pushing the car to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds better than the 2011 BMW 335 0 60. The BMW 335i motor produces 300 horsepower at 5800 rpm, peak toque is 300 pound-feet, available from a mere 1,200 rpm, all the way up to 5,000 rpm.

BMW says the new BMW 335i N55 engine replaces the N54 with was the same displacement, but required twin-turbochargers. The new 335Is Engine N55 single turbo setup produces the same peak power but with a lower starting torque curve, as well as better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions in the 2012 BMW 335i.

The innovative 8-speed automatic gearbox in the 2012 BMW 335i — which is a first in the segment — opens up a whole new level of driving experience. It can be specified in combination with either the 328i or the BMW 335i and includes the new Auto Start-Stop function. Compact and exceptionally efficient, it allows the BMW 335i to match or outperform models fitted with the standard six-speed manual gearbox in terms of fuel economy.

Improvements 2012 BMW 335i

BMW says handling characteristics and the dynamic nature of the BMW 335i have also improved. Part of the reason can be attributed to the BMW 335i rear-wheel-drive setup, 50:50 weight distribution, and torsionally stiff body. The 2012 BMW 335i also offers different drive modes to produce a desired effect.

Options include Comfort, Sport, Sport +, and Eco Pro modes, optionally available for the new 2012 BMW 335i is an Adaptive M Sport suspension with electronically controlled dampers, Variable Sports Steering to replace the electromechanical power steering system, and an M Sport brake package. BMW will also add some new technologies to its growing list of electronic conveniences for the BMW 335i. Meanwhile, the BMW 335I 2012 release date is expected in February 2012.

New 2012 BMW 335i Sport Line

Age-old and desirable attributes such as compact dimensions (provided you choose the two-door version), high ground clearance, steep approach and departure angles and a no-nonsense four-wheel-drive system with an aggressive low-range function still apply to today’s Jeep Wrangler, and it remains a popular choice among hard-core off-roaders.

Unchanged since the 2007 redesign, the Jeep Wrangler exterior retains an unmistakable resemblance to the original Jeep. Form relentlessly follows function. The Jeep Wrangler chunky five-spoke 18-inch alloys, though up two inches from the base Wrangler’s wheels, remain well short of over the top.

Unlike with some supposed off-road vehicles, you’ll find no mere rim protectors in the Jeep Wrangler, there’s no “DUB Edition.” Given the 2007’s increased width, the Jeep Wrangler 4 door actually has better proportions than the two-door. The Jeep Wrangler images might not be a beauty, but no one with any appreciation for design (as opposed to “styling”) can fail to find it attractive.

Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2012

The Jeep Wrangler 012 adds the Sport optional items plus 18-inch alloy wheels, an upgraded suspension, under-hood insulation, side steps, automatic headlamps, body-colored fender flares and a six-speaker Infinity sound system. The Jeep Wrangler 2012 comes standard with a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 285 hp and 260 pound-feet of torque.

Four-wheel drive is also standard in Jeep Wrangler and includes high- and low-range transfer case gears. A six-speed manual transmission with hill-start assist is standard, while a five-speed automatic is optional in the Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2012.

In Jeep Wrangler reviews testing, an automatic-equipped Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sahara went from zero to 60 mph in 8.8 seconds. EPA-estimated fuel economy for the two-door Jeep Wrangler Sahara is 17 mpg city/21 mpg highway and 18 mpg combined regardless of transmission. The Jeep Wrangler Unlimited is 16/20/18 with the automatic and 16/21 with the manual.

Refinement Jeep Wrangler

These Jeep Wrangler changes are serious improvements that include greatly enhanced tactile feel of all controls, softer surfaces that affect your arms, legs and hands, plus a wider array of travel-improving features such as DVD-music and video storage in the audio system, stronger performing audio systems with greater control access, as well as easy-to-use Garmin navigation systems.

We’ve previously documented the refinement taking place inside the Jeep Wrangler Sahara, as well as other Jeep products. Add more sound insulation, better seals around the doors, heated power mirrors and terrific seat heaters for the supportive cloth perches and the Jeep Wrangler has become a better-rounded commuter car too.

In that capacity, as well as off-road, the new Jeep Wrangler Sahara 2012 is measurably better due to one long overdue change — there now rests under the hood a serious propulsion system that makes road travel more relaxed, while off-road torque is ample enough to make short work of your rock-crawling exercises.

Jeep Wrangler Road Test & Review

The Mercedes Benz c230 brings more than the three-pointed star to the table, however. The Mercedes Benz c230 is a delight to drive with its sporty engine, responsive transmission, and perfect balance of ride quality and handling.

Mercedes Benz c230 Kompressor has good bones, with exterior styling inspired by the big, luxurious S-Class sedan, technology shared with the latest E-Class, and an interior design all its own. Redesigned for model year 2002, the Mercedes Benz c230 has been enjoying strong sales, particularly in the United States.

Stylists have grafted on a new front bumper for the Mercedes Benz c230, while the headlights have also been revised. To rival BMW’s similar system, Mercedes Benz c230 has also engineered lights which change direction with the steering, allowing the driver constant vision of the road ahead.

Inside, the Mercedes Benz c230 dashboard has been given a lift with redesigned switchgear and metallic inserts, and the overall finish is less somber. All Mercedes Benz c230 models will have automatic climate control, while self-shifters will be available with optional steering wheel-mounted buttons for manual gear changes.

The Mercedes Benz c230 looks and feels like a Mercedes with high-quality materials and firm, supportive seats. For 2003, the 2003 Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor has been expanded to nine models, which includes sedans, wagons, and sport coupes. Two new sports sedans join the 2003 Mercedes Benz c230 line, along with a new high-powered sport coupe, and a value-priced wagon.

The Mercedes Benz c230 sedans and wagons are available with 4MATIC all-wheel drive; also, the supercharged four-cylinder engine that powers Mercedes-Benz Kompressor C230 Coupe has been redesigned for better efficiency and lower emissions. The Mercedes Benz c230 Kompressor had a supercharged 1.8-litre engine; this was previously reserved for the Sports Coupe, but will now be available across the range.

Despite its small capacity, it produces an impressive 192bhp, making the Mercedes Benz c230 0-62 mph possible in 8.1 seconds, with a top speed of 149mph. Mercedes Benz c230 puts more costly rivals to shame, and the car feels every bit as quick as the figures suggest on the road; drive more carefully, though, and 31.7mpg should be possible.

Improvements Mercedes Benz c230 Kompressor

However, some Mercedes-Benz C230 Kompressor review says the face lifted Mercedes Benz c230 biggest improvement is not the new engine, it’s the transmission; a six-speed manual developed for the SLK does away with the old rule of thumb that every Merc should be an auto.

With more substantial rods replacing the cable linkages of the current model’s unpopular manual box, the Mercedes Benz c230 has a much more solid feel, and makes shifting a real pleasure. Meanwhile, the price-leading Mercedes Benz continues to attract first-time Mercedes buyers with its combination of style, space, and features.

The new Mercedes Benz c230 Kompressor prices have yet to be officially announced, but given the extra standard equipment and a promised drop in costs, the model looks certain to become better value for money. Entry-level Mercedes Benz c230 are expected to be around £19,000 – a £1,000 saving over the current version

Mercedes C230 Kompressor Coupe Review

At first, Acura Integra offered two lower trims, the base RS and LS. All Acura Integra models receive four-wheel disc brakes; LS and GS-R models get antilock brakes. Dual airbags replace the motorized seatbelts as the passive restraint system on the Acura Integra.

Easy to recognize, with its distinctive small projector beam headlights, the 1994 Acura Integra came as a 3-door coupe or a 4-door sedan and in three trim levels RS, LS and GS-R. Little-changed in the Acura Integra dimensions or weight, the 2-door rode a wheelbase nearly two inches shorter than the sedan’s, and measured close to six inches shorter overall.

Redesigned for 1994, the Acura Integra sports a distinctive four-headlight front end. Acura Integra headlights had an unusual four front end design which was dubbed “bug eyes” by some enthusiasts. The Acura Integra headlights proved unpopular so the Integra was revised in 1996 with only minor cosmetic updates including elongated flat headlights and an optional body kit, the top model was relabeled the Integra Si-RG.

All Acura Integra have 4-wheel disc brakes, but only the Acura Integra LS specs and GS-R got standard antilock braking. The Acura Integra engines are includes the 1.8 liter 4-cylinder that produces 140 horsepower and a high revving VTEC version pumps out 170 hp in the GS-R.

This high-output engine uses premium fuel, the extra power is in the high end of its rev range and the Acura Integra only comes mated with a special close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission. The 1994 Acura Integra fuel consumption is the same with either engine 9.6-l/100km in the city or 7-l/100 km on the highway.

An automatic transmission, available with the other 1994 Acura Integra trim levels, has a grade-logic control system that helps prevent the 3-4 gear shift dance you get with some 4-speed automatics on moderate up-hill sections of road. The Acura Integra top model was known in Japan as Integra Si, and it was powered by a B18C engine with a power of 178 PS (131 kW; 176 hp).

Security System 1994 Acura Integra

The 1994 Acura Integra interior is a better choice if you need seating for more than two adults as it has more rear passenger room, due to a longer wheelbase a slightly taller body. On the safety and security front, this Acura Integra is the first Integra to offer standard air bags and good side-impact protection.

Unfortunately the 1994 Acura Integra also a popular car with auto thieves, so a security system is probably a good investment. Most people drive the Acura like they stole it; mostly, it’s because they have or, more accurately, someone else did. The Acura Integra model years 2001 regularly grace the zenith of the annual top ten most stolen automobiles.

Moral outrage aside, the Integra’s tendency to disappear is entirely understandable; the 1994 Acura Integra is a cheap, fast, infinitely modifiable and reliable automobile that appeals to teenage boys, college students, financially-strapped piston heads, rice racketeers and thrifty professionals looking for a set of hot wheels (so to speak).

1994 Acura Integra Review